Effect of Estrogen Therapy on TNF-α and iNOS Gene Expression in Spinal Cord Injury Model

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a crucial complication that results in neurons degeneration. The SCI lead to triggering of secondary complications such as inflammation that in turn has a key role in neurodegeneration development. The previous studies showed that TNF-α and iNOS genes expression increased significantly after SCI. As a consequence, these genes overexpression intensify the inflammation and neuron degeneration process. In the present study, 32 male Wistar rats were chased and divided into four groups of eight. The SCI were induced in three groups and another group used as a sham. The estrogen hormone used as a therapeutic agent in rats with SCI. The results showed that injection of 10 μg/kg/12h estrogen hormone reduced the TNF-α and iNOS genes expression significantly and confirmed the role of progesterone in the reduction of inflammation reduce the inflammation. The numbers of intact neurons in Estrogen group were higher than other groups and showed that progesterone has protective effects on neuron death. The BBB test was performed and demonstrated that estrogen is an effective factor in the improvement of locomotor response. Our results suggested that estrogen hormone with anti-inflammatory activity can be an efficient agent for SCI complications therapy.

Does at-home bleaching induce systemic oxidative stress in healthy subjects?

BACKGROUND

At-home bleaching is a technique characterized by the use of carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide as a tooth-whitening agent. However, no data exist regarding systemic safety of this technique. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of at-home bleaching on serum redox homeostasis.

METHODS

Twenty-nine healthy volunteers who requested tooth-whitening participated in this study. Specified bleaching trays were fabricated for the maxilla and mandible arches. Each participant was given two syringes containing 9% hydrogen peroxide gel to use for 30 min/night for 14 nights consecutively. To evaluate the redox status, the serum concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) were measured. Blood samples were obtained in the morning prior to initiation of study and the morning after expiration of the bleaching period. The collected data were analyzed using Student's t-test with 95% confidence interval.

RESULTS

Twenty-three subjects completed the study. MDA, PAB and TAC were significantly increased after the bleaching period (P = 0.001, 0.001 and 0.002, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

At-home bleaching revealed the potential to disturb oxidant-antioxidant balance and induce oxidative stress. Its clinical relevance is unfavourable and potential side-effects of at-home bleaching should be considered.

Ginger extract and aerobic training reduces lipid profile in high-fat fed diet rats

OBJECTIVE

Obesity, hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia, are major risk factors. However, natural therapies, dietary components, and physical activity may effect on these concerns. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of aerobic exercise and consumption of liquid ginger extract on lipid profile of Male rats with a high-fat fed diet.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

32 rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: 1) aerobic exercise, 2) Ginger extract, 3) combined aerobic exercise and Ginger extract, and 4) the control. Subjects of the first three groups received ginger extract via gavage feeding of 250 mg/kg. The exercise program was 3 sessions per week on 3 different days over 4 weeks. Total cholesterol (TC), Triglyceride (TG), HDL and LDL were measured 24-h before the first session and 24-h after the final training session.

RESULTS

The concentration of TG in the control group was significantly higher than other groups. In addition, the mean concentration of TG in the aerobic exercise group was significantly lower than Ginger extract group but there was no significant difference as compared to combined aerobic exercise and ginger extract group. The combination of aerobic exercise and ginger consumption significantly reduced the TG level compared to ginger group. TC and LDL concentrations were significantly decreased in all groups compare to control. The combination of aerobic exercise and ginger extract feeding caused a significant increase in HDL levels.

CONCLUSIONS

The finding of this study suggests that the combination of aerobic exercise and liquid ginger extract consumption might be an effective method of reducing lipid profiles, which will reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases caused by high-fat diets.

Preparing neural stem/progenitor cells in PuraMatrix hydrogel for transplantation after brain injury in rats: A comparative methodological study

Cultivation of neural stem/progenitor cells (NS/PCs) in PuraMatrix (PM) hydrogel is an option for stem cell transplantation. The efficacy of a novel method for placing adult rat NS/PCs in PM (injection method) was compared to encapsulation and surface plating approaches. In addition, the efficacy of injection method for transplantation of autologous NS/PCs was studied in a rat model of brain injury. NS/PCs were obtained from the subventricular zone (SVZ) and cultivated without (control) or with scaffold (three-dimensional cultures; 3D). The effect of different approaches on survival, proliferation, and differentiation of NS/PCs were investigated. In in vivo study, brain injury was induced 45 days after NS/PCs were harvested from the SVZ and phosphate buffered saline, PM, NS/PCs, or PM+NS/PCs were injected into the brain lesion. There was an increase in cell viability and proliferation after injection and surface plating of NS/PCs compared to encapsulation and neural differentiation markers were expressed seven days after culturing the cells. Using injection method, transplantation of NS/PCs cultured in PM resulted in significant reduction of lesion volume, improvement of neurological deficits, and enhancement of surviving cells. In addition, the transplanted cells could differentiate in to neurons, astrocytes, or oligodendrocytes. Our results indicate that the injection and surface plating methods enhanced cell survival and proliferation of NS/PCs and suggest the injection method as a promising approach for transplantation of NS/PCs in brain injury.

Homing of allogeneic nestin-positive hair follicle-associated pluripotent stem cells after maternal transplantation in experimental model of cortical dysplasia

An embryo has the capability to accept allo- or xeno-geneic cells, which probably makes it an ideal candidate for stem cell transplantation of various cerebral cortex abnormalities, such as cortical dysplasia. The aim of this study was to determine hair follicle-associated pluripotent (HAP) stem cells homing into various organs of mother and fetus. Cells were obtained, analyzed for immunophenotypic features, and then labelled with CM-Dil; nestin+HAP stem cells or media phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) were intravenously delivered on day 16 of gestation in BALB/c mice, which intraperitoneally received methylazoxymethanol (MAM) one day in advance, and homing was assessed at 24 h after cell injection. Flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry manifested positive expression of nestin in HAP stem cells. For both mother and fetus, brain, lungs, liver, and spleen were the host organs for cell implants. For the brain, the figure was considerably higher in fetus, 4.05 ± 0.5% (p ≤ 0.05 vs. mother). MAM-injected mice had a downward trend for SDF-1α and CXCR4 (p ≤ 0.05 vs. control), but HAP stem cells group showed an upward trend for CXCR4 (p ≤ 0.05 vs. MAM). We conclude the HAP stem cells show homing potential in experimental cortical dysplasia, which may permit these cells to be a target in future work on prenatal therapy of neural disorders.

Phenotypic and genotypic variation in Iranian Pistachios

As Iran is one of the richest pistachio germplasms a few studies have been conducted on different sexes of pistachio trees, in areas where this crop emerged. To this end, 40 male and female Iranian pistachio genotypes from Feizabad region, Khorasan, Iran; were evaluated using morphological characters and randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. For morphological assessments, 54 variables were considered to investigate similarities between and among the studied genotypes. Morphological data indicated relative superiority in some female genotypes (such as Sefid 1, Sefid Sabuni 2, Garmesiah, and Ghermezdorosht Z) regarding characters such as halfcrackedness, the percentages of protein and fat content. 115 polymorphic bands were recorded with 92.83% average polymorphism among all primers. The total resolving power (Rp) of the primers was 74.54. The range of genetic similarity varied from about 0.31 to about 0.70. Genotypes were segregated into eight groups at the similarity limit of 0.41. Results of present investigation could be helpful for strategic decisions for maintaining Iranian pistachio genotypes.

Simple shoulder test and Oxford Shoulder Score: Persian translation and cross-cultural validation

PURPOSE

To translate, culturally adapt, and validate the simple shoulder test (SST) and Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS) into Persian language using a cross-sectional and prospective cohort design.

METHODS

A standard forward and backward translation was followed to culturally adapt the SST and the OSS into Persian language. Psychometric properties of floor and ceiling effects, construct convergent validity, discriminant validity, internal consistency reliability, test-retest reliability, standard error of the measurement (SEM), smallest detectable change (SDC), and factor structure were determined.

RESULTS

One hundred patients with shoulder disorders and 50 healthy subjects participated in the study. The PSST and the POSS showed no missing responses. No floor or ceiling effects were observed. Both the PSST and POSS detected differences between patients and healthy subjects supporting their discriminant validity. Construct convergent validity was confirmed by a very good correlation between the PSST and POSS (r = 0.68). There was high internal consistency for both the PSST (α = 0.73) and the POSS (α = 0.91 and 0.92). Test-retest reliability with 1-week interval was excellent (ICCagreement = 0.94 for PSST and 0.90 for POSS). Factor analyses demonstrated a three-factor solution for the PSST (49.7 % of variance) and a two-factor solution for the POSS (61.6 % of variance). The SEM/SDC was satisfactory for PSST (5.5/15.3) and POSS (6.8/18.8).

CONCLUSIONS

The PSST and POSS are valid and reliable outcome measures for assessing functional limitations in Persian-speaking patients with shoulder disorders.

Mandatory and Self-citation; Types, Reasons, Their Benefits and Disadvantages

This paper defines and discusses two important types of citations, self-citation and mandatory citation, in engineering journals. Citation can be classified in three categories: optional; semi-mandatory; and mandatory. There are some negative and positive impacts for the authors' paper and journals' reputation if mandatory citation of a paper or set of papers is requested. These effects can be different based on the recommended papers for citing in the new research. Mandatory citation has various types discussed in this paper. Self-citation and its reasons and impacts are also discussed in the present study.

Abstract 2750: Modulation of BRCA1 expression as a preventative method for BRCA1-associated breast cancer

Background: Women who inherited a BRCA1 mutation face a high lifetime risk of developing breast cancer estimated at 80% vs. 11% in the general population. Current prevention options are limited to prophylactic surgery and chemoprevention with tamoxifen. It is believed that a haploinsufficient state is responsible for the predisposition to cancer among BRCA1 mutation carriers. BRCA1 helps maintain genomic integrity through participating in the cellular response to DNA damage, specifically in the repair of double-stranded DNA breaks. Thus, factors which increase the physiologic expression of the normal gene and normalize protein levels may mitigate the effect of the mutation and decrease cancer risk.

Objectives: The objectives of this study are: 1) to determine whether BRCA1 mRNA expression from peripheral blood lymphocytes (as well as the corresponding protein levels) differ in women with and without a BRCA1 mutation; 2) to correlate BRCA1 mRNA and protein levels with various factors, including reproductive, hormonal, and anthropometric factors as well as mutation type; and 3) to identify a minimal classifier gene set that predicts BRCA1 mutation status in the general population.

Methodology: We enrolled 14 women with and 36 without a BRCA1 mutation. All participants completed a research questionnaire and standardized procedures were used to collect anthropometric measurements. Blood samples were collected for white blood cell isolation. BRCA1 mRNA was quantified using the Nanostring nCounter Analysis System and the Human Cancer Reference Kit, a panel of 230 cancer-associated genes. The gene expression data set will be used to identify a minimal gene classifier that predicts BRCA1 mutation status. BRCA1 protein levels will be determined using Western blot.

Results: Mean BRCA1 expression was significantly lower for mutation carriers vs. non-carriers (139 vs. 157 counts; P = 0.02). Western blot experiments and analyses of predictors of expression are underway.

Conclusions and Significance: These results provide important preliminary evidence that BRCA1 mutation carriers have lower peripheral white blood cell BRCA1 mRNA expression compared to non-carriers. Future studies can utilize peripheral blood samples from BRCA1 mutation carriers to evaluate whether lifestyle factors, such as diet and physical activity, may modulate BRCA1 levels and potentially modify disease risk. Our findings contribute to a program of research aimed at providing evidence-based lifestyle prevention strategies for high-risk women.

Citation Format: Rania Chehade, Rachael Pettapiece-Phillips, Mohammad Akbari, Leonardo Salmena, Steven Narod, Joanne Kotsopoulos. Modulation of BRCA1 expression as a preventative method for BRCA1-associated breast cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 2750. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-2750

Fake Journals: Their Features and Some Viable Ways to Distinguishing Them

In this paper, we aim to discuss the fake journals and their advertisement and publication techniques. These types of journals mostly start and continue their activities by using the name of some indexed journals and establishing fake websites. The fake journals and publishers, while asking the authors for a significant amount of money for publishing their papers, have no peer-review process, publish the papers without any revision on the fake sites, and put the scientific reputation and prestige of the researchers in jeopardy. In the rest of the paper, we present some viable techniques in order for researchers and students to identify these journals.

Germline BRCA Mutations in a Large Clinic-Based Cohort of Patients With Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma

PURPOSE

The main purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of pathogenic BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations in a consecutively ascertained clinic-based cohort of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and describe the clinical and family history characteristics.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Unselected, consecutive, incident patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma were recruited at a single cancer center over a 2-year period. Participants provided blood for DNA analysis and cancer family history, and cancer treatment records were reviewed. DNA from all patients was analyzed by Sanger sequencing and multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification for germline variants in BRCA1 and BRCA2.

RESULTS

Three hundred six patients were eligible for analysis. Pathogenic germline BRCA mutations were identified in 14 patients (4.6%; 95% CI, 2.2% to 6.9%), including 11 patients with a BRCA2 mutation and three patients with a BRCA1 mutation. Having a cancer family history that met genetic testing criteria of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network or the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care or self-reporting as Ashkenazi Jewish was significantly associated with BRCA mutation carrier status (P=.02, P<.001, and P=.05, respectively). However, the majority of the BRCA mutation-positive patients did not actually meet these genetic testing criteria.

CONCLUSION

Pathogenic BRCA mutations were identified in 4.6% of a large cohort of clinic-based patients. Considering the implications for family members of BRCA carriers, and possibly tailored chemotherapeutic treatment of patients, our finding has implications for broader BRCA genetic testing for patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.

The prevalence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations among young Mexican women with triple-negative breast cancer

Various guidelines recommend that women with triple-negative breast cancer should be tested for BRCA1 mutations, but the prevalence of mutations may vary with ethnic group and with geographic region, and the optimal cutoff age for testing has not been established. We estimated the frequencies of BRCA1 and BRCA2 (BRCA) mutations among 190 women with triple-negative breast cancer, unselected for family history, diagnosed at age 50 or less at a single hospital in Mexico City. Patients were screened for 115 recurrent BRCA mutations, which have been reported previously in women of Hispanic origin, including a common large rearrangement Mexican founder mutation (BRCA1 ex9-12del). A BRCA mutation was detected in 44 of 190 patients with triple-negative breast cancer (23 %). Forty-three mutations were found in BRCA1 and one mutation was found in BRCA2. Seven different mutations accounted for 39 patients (89 % of the total mutations). The Mexican founder mutation (BRCA1 ex9-12del) was found 18 times and accounted for 41 % of all mutations detected. There is a high prevalence of BRCA1 mutations among young triple-negative breast cancer patients in Mexico. Women with triple-negative breast cancer in Mexico should be screened for mutations in BRCA1.

Human Wharton's jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells express oocyte developmental genes during co-culture with placental cells

OBJECTIVES

The present day challenge is how to obtain germ cells from stem cells to treat patients with cancer and infertility. Much more efforts have been made to develop a procedure for attaining germ cells in vitro. Recently, human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (HUMSCs) have been introduced with higher efficacy for differentiation. In this work, we tried to explore the efficacy of HUMSCs and some effective products of placental cells such as transforming growth factors. This study is aimed to optimize a co-culture condition for HUMSCs with placental cells to obtain primordial germ cells (PGCs) and reach into oocyte-like cells in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, HUMSCs and placental cells were co-cultured for 14 days without any external inducer in vitro. Then HUMSCs were assessed for expression of PGC markers; Octamer-binding transcription factor 4(OCT4), Tyrosine-protein kinase Kit (CKIT), Stage specific embryonic antigen 4 (SSEA4), DEAD (Asp-Glu-Ala-Asp) box polypeptide 4(DDX4) and oocyte specific markers; Growth differentiation factor-9(GDF9), Zona pellucida glycoprotein 3(ZP3). The pertinent markers were assessed by immunocytochemistry and Q-PCR.

RESULTS

Co-cultured HUMSCs with placental cells (including amniotic and chorionic cells) presented Oct4 and DDX4, primordial germ cells specific markers significantly, but increment in expression of oocyte-like cell specific markers, GDF9 and ZP3 did not reach to statistically significant threshold.

CONCLUSION

Placental cell supplements Transforming growth factor (TGF α, β) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in a co-culture model can provide proper environment for induction of HUMSCs into PGCs and expression of oocyte-like markers.

Influence of core stability exercise on lumbar vertebral instability in patients presented with chronic low back pain: A randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Excessive lumbar vertebrae translation and rotation in sagittal plane has been attributed as an associated factor of lumbar segmental instability (LSI) and low back pain (LBP). Reduction of these abnormalities improves back pain. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of core stability exercise on the translation and rotation of lumbar vertebrae in sagittal plane in patients with nonspecific chronic LBP (NSCLBP).

METHODS

In this randomized clinical trial, 30 patients with NSCLBP due to LSI were included. The participants were randomly divided into two groups of treatment and control. The treatment group received general exercises plus core stability exercise for 8 weeks whereas; the control group received only general exercises. The magnitude of translation (mm) and rotation (deg) of lumbar vertebrae in the sagittal plane was determined by radiography in flexion and extension at baseline and after intervention. The primary outcome measures were to determine the mean changes from baseline in translation and rotation of the lumbar vertebrae in the sagittal plane after 8 weeks of intervention in each group. The secondary outcome was to compare the two groups in regard to translation and rotation of the lumbar vertebrae at the end of the study period. Data were analyzed using paired t-test and independent t-test.

RESULTS

Thirty patients aged 18-40 years old with clinical diagnosis of NSCLBP entered the study. Compared with baseline values, mean value of translation and rotation of the lumbar vertebra reduced significantly in both groups (P<0.05), except L3 translation in the control group. At the endpoint, mean translation value of L4 (P=0.04) and L5 (P=0.001) and rotation of the L5 (P=0.01) in the treatment group was significantly lower than the control group.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that in patients presented with NSCLBP due to lumbar segmental instability, core stability exercises plus general exercises are more efficient than general exercises alone in the improvement of excessive lumbar vertebrae translation and rotation.

Hyperglycemia decreased medial amygdala projections to medial preoptic area in experimental model of Diabetes Mellitus

In Wistar rats, reproductive behavior is controlled in a neural circuit of ventral forebrain including the medial amygdala (Me), bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) and medial preoptic area (MPOA) via perception of social odors. Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a widespread metabolic disease that affects many organs in a variety of levels. DM can cause central neuropathies such as neuronal apoptosis, dendritic atrophy, neurochemical alterations and also causes reproductive dysfunctions. So we hypothesized damage to the nuclei of this circuit can cause reproductive dysfunctions. Therefore in this project we assessed diabetic effect on these nuclei. For this purpose neuron tracing technique and TUNEL assay were used. We injected HRP in the MPOA and counted labeled cells in the Me and BNST to evaluate the reduction of neurons in diabetic animals. Also, coronal sections were analyzed with the TMB histochemistry method. Animals in this study were adult male Wistar rats (230 ± 8g) divided to control and 10-week streptozotocin-induced diabetic groups. After data analysis by SPSS 16 software, a significant reduction of HRP-labeled neurons was shown in both Me and BNST nuclei in the diabetic group. Moreover, apoptotic cells were significantly observed in diabetic animals in contrast to control the group. In conclusion, these alterations of the circuit as a result of diabetes might be one of the reasons for reproductive dysfunctions.

Trimetazidine prevents oxidative changes induced in a rat model of sporadic type of Alzheimer's disease

Oxidative stress plays a major role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) of sporadic origin. The expression of DHCR24 (Seladin-1), marker for neuronal oxidative stress and degeneration, has been reported to be altered in the brains of AD patients. In the present study, we investigated the effect of trimetazidine (TMZ) on the hippocampal oxidative parameters and the expression of DHCR24 (Seladin-1) in an animal model of sporadic AD. Male rats were pre-treated with TMZ (25 mg/kg) after which injected with intracerebroventricular-streptozotocin (ICV-STZ)/Saline. Following 2, 7 and 14 days, animals of different groups were sacrificed with their brain excised to detect the hippocampal lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase activity, DHCR24 (Seladin-1) expression and possible histopathological changes. ICV-STZ administration induced significant oxidative changes in the hippocampus. Meanwhile, TMZ pre-treatment showed to ameliorate the oxidative stress, which was demonstrated by a significant rise in the hippocampal SOD and catalase activity, as well as a significant decrease in the malondialdehyde (MDA) level. TMZ administration also increased the expression of DHCR24 (Seladin-1) gene in the hippocampus. In conclusion, our findings indicated a neuroprotective effect of TMZ possibly related to its antioxidant activity resulting in the up-regulation of DHCR24 (Seladin-1). Such TMZ effects may be beneficial in minimizing oxidative stress in sporadic Alzheimer's disease and possible prevention of disease progression.

A novel inorganic–organic nanohybrid material H4SiW12O40/pyridino-MCM-41 as efficient catalyst for the preparation of 1-amidoalkyl-2-naphthols under solvent-free conditions

A new inorganic–organic nanohybrid material was prepared and performed as an efficient catalyst for the one-pot multi-component synthesis of different substituted 1-amidoalkyl-2-naphthols under solvent-free conditions.

Abstract 12: Germline BRCA mutations in an unselected cohort of patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma

This is the first prospective study to determine the frequency of BRCA1 and BRCA2 germline mutations in an unselected series of patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

Patients with histologically or clinically confirmed pancreatic adenocarcinoma were approached at a single cancer centre to enroll in the IRB-approved Ontario Pancreas Cancer Study. Patients provided informed consent and cancer family history data was obtained. Blood was collected and analyzed by Sanger sequencing and MLPA for germline variants in BRCA1 and BRCA2. All predicted deleterious germline variants were confirmed by a clinical laboratory on an independent blood sample.

Pathogenic germline mutations were identified in 12/234 (5%) of unselected incident pancreatic adenocarcinomas. BRCA1 mutations accounted for 1.2% (3/234) and BRCA2 accounted for 3.8% (9/234) cases. For the cohort, average age of pancreatic adenocarcinoma diagnosis was 65 years (27-91) and 46% were female. Previous primary cancer was reported in 24% of cases and 12% were of Ashkenazi Jewish descent. A family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer was reported in 25% of cases; however, of these with a family history, 1/3 did not meet NCCN guidelines to warrant germline BRCA analysis. Pancreatic cancer in another relative was reported in 12% of cases. A personal history of a previous primary cancer diagnosis and a family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer were significantly associated with germline BRCA mutations.

Previous studies of BRCA mutations in pancreatic adenocarcinoma have been limited to retrospective case series and incomplete germline analysis. Our study shows that germline BRCA mutations account for a significant proportion of pancreatic adenocarcinoma, regardless of family history of breast and ovarian cancer. Increased identification of patients with germline BRCA mutations and pancreatic adenocarcinoma may allow for tailored chemotherapy through the use of platinum agents or PARP inhibitors.

Citation Format: Spring Holter, Ayelet Borgida, Anna Dodd, Steven Narod, Mohammad Akbari, Malcolm Moore, Steven Gallinger. Germline BRCA mutations in an unselected cohort of patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Cancer Susceptibility and Cancer Susceptibility Syndromes; Jan 29-Feb 1, 2014; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(23 Suppl):Abstract nr 12. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.CANSUSC14-12

Comparison of the postural control between football players following ACL reconstruction and healthy subjects

BACKGROUND

Rupture of the Anterior Cruciate Ligment (ACL) is a common knee injury. The purpose of this study was to determine the balance control in football players with and without ACL reconstruction in posture of injury.

METHODS

Sway of the center of gravity of 15 patients with ACL reconstruction was compared with 15 healthy, age and sex-matched subjects as the control group. All tests were done unilaterally in the posture of injury, using a kistler force plate with the open and -closed eye conditions.

RESULTS

The knee of the operated side of the case group showed more displacement of the center of gravity when compared to the non-operated side in the same subject for all variables of the force plate. The operated side of the case group showed more displacement of the center of gravity for all variables of the force plate in comparison with the dominant side of knees in control group. There were significant differences between the non-operated side in the case group and the dominant side of the control group.

CONCLUSION

All together, postural control in the operated side of the case group was weaker than the nonoperated side of the same group and the dominant limb of the control group, which might have resulted from poor proprioception. The postural control was even weaker in the non-operated side of the case group as compared with the dominant limb of the control group, which can justify the hypo mobility of limb for several months after the surgery.

Protective effects of melatonin against mitochondrial injury in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most prevalent inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Besides other pathophysiological mechanisms, mitochondrial injury is crucially involved in the development and progression of this disease. Mitochondria have been identified as targets for the peptide hormone melatonin. In the present study, we sought to evaluate the impact of oxidative stress on mitochondrial density and enzyme transcription during experimentally induced demyelination and the protective influence of melatonin. Adult male mice were fed with cuprizone for 5 weeks which caused severe demyelination of the corpus callosum (CC). Animals were simultaneously treated with melatonin by daily intra-peritoneal injections. Melatonin exposure reversed cuprizone-induced demyelination and axon protection. Transmission electron microscopy demonstrated significantly increased mitochondrial numbers and slightly increased mitochondrial size within CC axons after cuprizone exposure. Melatonin antagonized these effects and, in addition, induced the expression of subunits of the respiratory chain complex over normal control values reflecting a mechanism to compensate cuprizone-mediated down-regulation of these genes. Similarly, melatonin modulated gene expression of mitochondrial fusion and fission proteins. Biochemical analysis showed that oxidative stress induced by cuprizone was regulated by melatonin. The data implicate that melatonin abolishes destructive cuprizone effects in the CC by decreasing oxidative stress, restoring mitochondrial respiratory enzyme activity and fusion and fission processes as well as decreasing intra-axonal mitochondria accumulation.

The relationship between vitamin D status and idiopathic lower-extremity deep vein thrombosis

Background

Vitamin D has been shown to have an anticoagulant effect. A decrease in 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentration has also been associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism. Hence, we sought to determine the relationship between 25(OH) D levels and idiopathic lower-extremity deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Methods

In a case control study, a total of 82 participants with idiopathic lower-extremity DVT were enrolled along with 85 sex- and age-matched healthy participants as controls. The plasma 25(OH)D levels were measured in all the studied samples.

Results

The participants’ mean age was 47.1±12.3 years. Baseline characteristics were not significantly different between the groups. The concentration of 25(OH)D was significantly lower in the DVT group compared to that of the control group (17.9±10.3 versus 23.1±12.5 ng/mL, P=0.004). The prevalence of participants with deficient 25(OH)D levels was significantly higher in the both DVT and control groups than those with sufficient 25(OH)D levels (68.3% versus 13.4%, and 49.4% versus 28.2%, respectively, P=0.027). In a multivariate analysis, 25(OH)D levels and sex were found to be the only independent predictors of DVT (odds ratio [OR] 1.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02–1.08, P=0.001 and OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.26–1.00, P=0.049, respectively).

Conclusion

Low levels of 25(OH)D are associated with idiopathic lower-extremity DVT. Further investigation is needed to establish determinants and probable causative role of 25(OH)D.

Flt3 ligand treatment modulates parasitemia during infection with rodent malaria parasites via MyD88- and IFN-γ-dependent mechanisms

We previously showed that treatment of mice with the Flt3 ligand (Flt3L) prevents development of lethal experimental cerebral malaria and inhibits parasitemia during Plasmodium berghei ANKA (PbA) infection. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms underlying the reduction of parasitemia in Flt3L-treated mice. Studies using gene knockout mice and antibody treatment indicated that the anti-parasitemia effect of Flt3L was mediated by innate immune system and was dependent on MyD88, IFN-γ, IL-12 and natural killer (NK) cells. The number of NK cells and their ability to produce IFN-γ was enhanced in Flt3L-treated mice. Phagocytic activity of splenocytes was increased in Flt3L-treated mice after PbA infection when compared with that in untreated mice, and this activity was mainly mediated by the accumulation of F4/80(mid) CD11b(+) cells in the spleen. In both MyD88(-/-) and IFN-γ(-/-) mice, the proportion of F4/80(mid) CD11b(+) cells was not increased in the spleen of Flt3L-treated mice after infection. These correlations suggest that NK cells produce IFN-γ in Flt3L-treated mice, and accumulation of F4/80(mid) CD11b(+) cells in the spleen is promoted by an IFN-γ -dependent manner, culminating in the inhibition of parasitemia. These findings imply that Flt3L promotes effective innate immunity against malaria infection mediated by interplay among varieties of innate immune cells.

Prospective study of high-risk, BRCA1/2-mutation negative women: the 'negative study'

Background

We previously reported that women from high-risk families who tested negative for a BRCA1 or BRCA2 (BRCA1/2) mutation were four times more likely to develop breast cancer compared to women in the general population. Preventive measures and risk factors for breast cancer development in these high-risk women have not been evaluated to the same extent as BRCA1/2 positive women. Further, there is virtually no scientific evidence about best practices in their management and care. The proposed study will examine a role of genetic and non-genetic factors and develop the systems and parameters for the monitoring and surveillance necessary to help establish guidelines for the care of this high-risk population.

Methods/Design

To achieve our goals, we will assemble and follow a Canadian cohort of 1,000 cancer-free women with a strong family history breast cancer (defined as two or more relatives affected by breast cancer under the age of 50, or three or more relatives diagnosed with breast cancer at any age from one side of the family and with no BRCA1/2 mutation in the family). All eligible participants will be mailed a study package including invitation to participate, consent form, a research questionnaire to collect data regarding family history, reproductive and lifestyle factors, as well as screening and surgery. Usual dietary intake will be assessed by a diet history questionnaire. Biological samples including toenail clippings, urine and blood samples will be collected. These women will be followed every two years by questionnaire to update exposure information, screening practices, surgical and chemoprevention, and disease development.

Discussion

Findings from this study will serve to help establish clinical guidelines for the implementation of prevention, counseling, and treatment practices for women who face an elevated risk of breast cancer due to family history, but who do not carry a BRCA1/2 mutation.

Association between IHC and MSI testing to identify mismatch repair-deficient patients with ovarian cancer

OBJECTIVE

In epithelial ovarian cancer, concordance between results of microsatellite instability (MSI) and immunohistochemical (IHC) testing has not been demonstrated. This study evaluated the association of MSI-high (MSI-H) status with loss of expression (LoE) of mismatch repair (MMR) proteins on IHC and assessed for potential factors affecting the strength of the association.

METHODS

Tumor specimens from three population-based studies of epithelial ovarian cancer were stained for MMR proteins through manual or automated methods, and results were interpreted by one of two pathologists. Tumor and germline DNA was extracted and MSI testing performed. Multivariable logistic regression models were fitted to predict loss of IHC expression based on MSI status after adjusting for staining method and reading pathologist.

RESULTS

Of 834 cases, 564 (67.6%) were concordant; 41 were classified as MSI-H with LoE and 523 as microsatellite stable (MSS) with no LoE. Of the 270 discordant cases, 83 were MSI-H with no LoE and 187 were MSS with LoE. Both IHC staining method and reading pathologist were strongly associated with discordant results.

CONCLUSIONS

Lack of concordance in the current study may be related to inconsistencies in IHC testing methods and interpretation. Results support the need for validation studies before routine screening of ovarian tumors is implemented in clinical practice for the purpose of identifying Lynch syndrome.

Cerebral and non-cerebral coenurosis in small ruminants

Cerebral coenurosis is caused by Coenurus cerebralis, the larval stage of Taenia multiceps. The metacestode causes severe lesions in the brain and spinal cord of the intermediate host, so-called "gid" or "stagger" disease. Whereas, the non-cerebral coenurosis caused by Coenurus gaigeri, the larval stage of Taenia gaigeri, particularly affects goats. The cyst form of the Taenia gaigeri is found in intramuscular and subcutaneous tissues. The difference in the sequence of mitochondrial genes of cox1 and nadI and also other variations reported for clinical, morphological and pathological aspects in coenurosis lead to the hypothesis that there is genetic intraspecific variability within this species, such as in other members of the genus Taenia. Nevertheless, it has been shown that sheep and goats have been infected by both cerebral and non-cerebral coenurosis and it has been suggested that such cerebral and non-cerebral metacestodes may belong to different species of Taenia which are host specific for these hosts.

The Effects of Stabilization and Mckenzie Exercises on Transverse Abdominis and Multifidus Muscle Thickness, Pain, and Disability: A Randomized Controlled Trial in NonSpecific Chronic Low Back Pain

[Purpose] This study compared the effectiveness of stabilization and McKenzie exercises on pain, disability, and thickness of the transverse abdominis and multifidus muscles in patients with nonspecific chronic low back pain. [Subjects] Thirty patients were randomly assigned into two groups: the McKenzie and stabilization exercise groups. [Methods] Before and after intervention, pain, disability, and thickness of the transverse abdominis and multifidus muscles were evaluated by visual analogue scale, functional rating index, and sonography, respectively. The training program was 18 scheduled sessions of individual training for both groups. [Results] After interventions, the pain score decreased in both groups. The disability score decreased only in the stabilization group. The thickness of the left multifidus was significantly increased during resting and contracting states in the stabilization group. The thickness of the right transverse abdominis during the abdominal draw-in maneuver, and thickness of the left transverse abdominis during the active straight leg raising maneuver were significantly increased in the stabilization group. The intensity of pain, disability score, thickness of the right transverse abdominis during the abdominal draw-in manouver, and thickness of the left transverse abdominis during active straight leg raising in the stabilization group were greater than those on the Mackenzie. [Conclusion] Stabilization exercises are more effective than McKenzie exercises in improving the intensity of pain and function score and in increasing the thickness of the transverse abdominis muscle.

Strength of hip muscle groups in sedentary women with patellofemoral pain syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To compare the strength of hip muscle groups in sedentary women with bilateral patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) with a matched control group of sedentary women without PFPS.

METHODS

Twenty four women between 19 and 23 years of age (PFPS group, n=12; control group, n=12) participated in this study. Strength for all 6 hip muscle groups was measured bilaterally in all subjects using a stabilized Hand-held dynamometer.

RESULTS

The hip musculature of sedentary women with bilateral PFPS was statistically weaker (range 31%-52%; p< 0.001) than that of the control group for all muscle groups.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated a statistically significant weakness of hip muscle groups in sedentary women with PFPS.

Role of Somatic Testicular Cells during Mouse Spermatogenesis in Three-Dimensional Collagen Gel Culture System

OBJECTIVE

Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the only cell type that can restore fertility to an infertile recipient following transplantation. Much effort has been made to develop a protocol for differentiating isolated SSCs in vitro. Recently, three-dimensional (3D) culture system has been introduced as an appropriate microenvironment for clonal expansion and differentiation of SSCs. This system provides structural support and multiple options for several manipulation such as addition of different cells. Somatic cells have a critical role in stimulating spermatogenesis. They provide complex cell to cell interaction, transport proteins and produce enzymes and regulatory factors. This study aimed to optimize the culture condition by adding somatic testicular cells to the collagen gel culture system in order to induce spermatogenesis progression.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, the disassociation of SSCs was performed by using a two-step enzymatic digestion of type I collagenase, hyaluronidase and DNase. Somatic testicular cells including Sertoli cells and peritubular cells were obtained after the second digestion. SSCs were isolated by Magnetic Activated Cell Sorting (MACS) using GDNF family receptor alpha-1 (Gfrα-1) antibody. Two experimental designs were investigated. 1. Gfrα-1 positive SSCs were cultured in a collagen solution. 2. Somatic testicular cells were added to the Gfrα-1 positive SSCs in a collagen solution. Spermatogenesis progression was determined after three weeks by staining of synaptonemal complex protein 3 (SCP3)-positive cells. Semi-quantitative Reverse Transcription PCR was undertaken for SCP3 as a meiotic marker and, Crem and Thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF1) as post meiotic markers. For statistical analysis student t test was performed.

RESULTS

Testicular supporter cells increased the expression of meiotic and post meiotic markers and had a positive effect on extensive colony formation.

CONCLUSION

Collagen gel culture system supported by somatic testicular cells provides a microenvironment that mimics seminiferous epithelium and induces spermatogenesis in vitro.

A new and safe method for stereotactically harvesting neural stem/progenitor cells from the adult rat subventricular zone

BACKGROUND

Adult neural stem/progenitor cells (NS/PCs) are one of the outstanding cell sources for therapeutic purposes in the central nervous system diseases. Autologous transplantation of NS/PCs still is a matter of controversy due to the safety issue as well as efficiency of harvesting these cells from the live mammalian brain subventricular zone (SVZ).

NEW METHOD

In this new and safe method, a 16-guage semi-automatic biopsy needle was used stereotactically to remove a piece of SVZ. Then, the proliferation and differentiation capacity of obtained cells were assessed. In addition, the safety of the biopsy procedure was analyzed employing the Morris water maze, modified neurologic severity score, passive avoidance and open field tests.

RESULTS

Despite being very small in size, the SVZ specimen could generate a large number of progeny with the ability to differentiate into neuronal and glial cells. The biopsy procedure introduced in this study did not have any impact on the behavioral and neurological processes.

COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHOD(S)

existing SVZ biopsy methods were uncontrollable techniques which harvested brain tissue by aspiration using a syringe not a semi-automatic biopsy needle. Also, previous methods were not evaluated in terms of behavior and cognition.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed a considerable safety and efficacy for the stereotactical removal of the adult rat SVZ to harvest NS/PCs for autologous transplantation.

Cytological investigations and new chromosome number reports in yarrow (Achillea millefolium Linnaeus, 1753) accessions from Iran

In this study, a new chromosome number for Iranian yarrow (Achillea millefolium L.) accessions was reported. Cytological analyses on four Achillea millefolium accessions, indicated that two accessions were diploids (2n=2x=18) and two tetraploids (2n=4x=36). Cluster analysis based on chromosomal characteristics and karyotype asymmetry, categorized the four accessions separated into two groups. In terms of the Stebbins' system, the karyotype of diploid accessions grouped in 2A class. The average value of the total form percentage (TF%) in the group one (diploid accessions) and two (tetraploid accessions) were 40.85 and 41.15, respectively. The group one had the highest mean value for the symmetry index (S%=57.5). Consequently, it can be inferred that diploids belonging to the group one are the earlier evolutionary forms.

A pilot study of a modified radiographic technique for detecting early proximal cavities

Diagnosing the necessity of cavity preparation in demineralized proximal areas has been considered as a challenge in restorative treatment planning. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical performance of a modified radiographic technique for the detection of proximal cavities. The sample consisted of 44 proximal surfaces in 38 dental students. The patients had radiolucent proximal lesions restricted to the inner half of enamel or the outer third of dentine in bitewing radiographs, and there was doubt regarding the presence or absence of cavities in the approximal areas. The suspected surfaces were then examined by secondary bitewing radiographs which were taken after pressing radiopaque material into the proximal areas. Finally, orthodontic elastic separators were placed in the contact areas to provide enough space for direct visual and tactile examination, thus detecting any proximal cavity (reference standard). The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of the modified bitewing radiography were calculated against the reference standard. Overall, 7 surfaces presented caries cavities according to the reference standard. All proximal radiolucencies observed in the inner half of enamel and 46% of those extended to the outer third of dentine were not cavitated when evaluated by direct visual and tactile examination. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of bitewing radiography with opaque material for detecting proximal cavities (n = 7) were 86, 100 and 98%, respectively. The tested radiographic technique displayed good validity in this pilot study for detecting proximal cavities in posterior teeth and should be further investigated.

BRCA sequencing and large rearrangement testing in young Black women with breast cancer

Young Black women in the United States are disproportionately afflicted with breast cancer, a proportion of which may be due to BRCA1 and BRCA2 (BRCA) gene mutations. In a cancer registry-based sample of young Black women with breast cancer, we evaluated: (1) the prevalence of BRCA mutations detected through full gene sequencing and large rearrangements testing and (2) proportions that accessed genetic services pre-dating study enrollment. Black women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer ≤age 50 years in 2009-2012 were recruited through the Florida Cancer Registry. Participants completed genetic counseling, a study questionnaire, and consent for medical record release. Saliva specimens were collected for BRCA testing. Overall, 13 participants (9 %) had BRCA mutations detected (including 11 through full gene sequencing and two through large rearrangements testing). One of these large rearrangements, BRCA1 (delExon8), was identified in a participant who had previously tested negative on clinical comprehensive BRCAnalysis that was performed prior to undergoing a lumpectomy. Although all 144 participants met national criteria for referral for cancer genetic risk assessment, 61 (42 %) were referred for genetic counseling and/or had genetic testing preceding study enrollment, and only 20 (14 %) received genetic counseling. Our findings emphasize the importance of large rearrangements testing to increase detection of deleterious BRCA mutations in young Black women with breast cancer. The registry-based design of our study increase the generalizability of findings compared with efforts focused on clinic-based populations. Furthermore, results suggest efforts are needed to improve access to genetic counseling and testing.

Distribution of extended spectrum beta-lactamase resistance genes among nosocomial imipenem resistant A. Baumannii strains harboring BLAoxa-23 carbapenemases isolated from Ilam and Tehran

Antimicrobial susceptibility and ESBLs genes of 42 imipenem resistant A. baumannii carried out by DDST and PCR. The most antimicrobial agents against A. baumannii strains, harboring blaOXA-23-like carbapenemases, were meropenem (33.4 percent), piperacillin-tazobactam (23.9 percent), ceftazidime (14.3 percent) and gatifoxacin (19.1 percent), respectively. All the 42 isolates harbored the blaTEM gene, but the bla SHV and VEB genes were not present among all the isolates. With the exception of seven isolates, all the A. baumannii strains harbor blaTEM showed ESBL positivity in DDST. The result of this study show that resistance against antimicrobial agents, especially carbapenems, has increased and that blaTEM harboring A. baumannii strains can be help the blaOXA-like carbapenemase genes to code for resistance against carbapenem antibiotics.

Systematic review: the quality of the scientific evidence and conflicts of interest in international inflammatory bowel disease practice guidelines

BACKGROUND

Guidelines published by the international gastroenterology societies establish standards of care and seek to improve patient outcomes.

AIM

We examined inflammatory bowel disease guidelines (IBD) for quality of evidence, methods of grading evidence and conflicts of interest (COI).

METHODS

All 182 guidelines published by the American College of Gastroenterology, American Gastroenterological Association, British Society of Gastroenterology, Canadian Association of Gastroenterology, Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America and European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation as of 27 September 2012 were reviewed. Nineteen IBD guidelines were found.

RESULTS

Eighty-nine per cent (n = 17/19) of the guidelines graded the levels of evidence using seven different systems. Of the 1070 recommendations reviewed, 23% (n = 249) cited level A evidence; 28% (n = 302) level B; 36% (n = 383) level C and 13% (n = 136) level D. The mean age of the guidelines was 4.2 years. In addition, 61% (n = 11/19) of the guidelines failed to comment on COI. All eight articles commenting on COI had conflicts with 81% (n = 92/113) of authors reported an average 11.7 COI. Lastly, there were variations in the recommendations between societies.

CONCLUSIONS

Nearly half the IBD guideline recommendations are based on expert opinion or no evidence. Majority of the guidelines fail to disclose any COI, and when commenting, all have numerous COI. Furthermore, the guidelines are not updated frequently and there is a lack of consensus between societal guidelines. This study highlights the critical need to centralize and redesign the guidelines development process.

The effects of stabilizing exercises on pain and disability of patients with lumbar segmental instability

BACKGROUND DATA

Lumbar segmental instability (LSI) is one of the subgroups of non-specific chronic low back pain. Pain, functional disability and reduced muscle endurance are common in such patients.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of stabilization exercise on pain, functional disability and muscle endurance in patients with LSI.

METHODS

A randomized clinical trial was carried out on 30 patients who had LSI aged between 18-45 years. They were divided into two groups; the control group underwent routine exercise only while the experimental group performed routine exercise plus stabilization training for 8 weeks. Both had 3 months follow-up. The variables included pain intensity, functional disability and flexion and extension range of motion and flexor, extensor and lateral flexor muscles endurance which were evaluated 3 times; before, post treatment and after three months. The data were analyzed using repeated measurement ANOVA.

RESULTS

The results revealed that after treatment, the trunk muscle endurance and flexion range of motion increased significantly and the pain intensity and functional disability decreased significantly in both groups; however the rate of improvement was significantly higher in the experimental group. The process of decreasing pain intensity and functional disability in addition to increasing muscle endurance time %was were significantly faster in the experimental group during the three months follow up.

CONCLUSION

Regarding the positive effects of stabilizing exercises with routine exercises in reduction of pain intensity, increasing functional ability and muscle endurance, it is recommended to use this method in treatment of patients with lumbar segmental instability.

The Crohn's disease activity index (CDAI) is similarly elevated in patients with Crohn's disease and in patients with irritable bowel syndrome

BACKGROUND

While the Crohn's disease activity index (CDAI) is the gold standard for defining clinical endpoints in Crohn's disease (Crohn's) clinical trials, its ability to distinguish symptoms due to inflammation from those that are non-inflammatory has been questioned.

AIM

To compare CDAI scores in patients with Crohn's and those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

METHODS

This was a prospective, cross-sectional cohort study of 91 patients with either Crohn's (n = 44) or IBS (n = 47). Total CDAI and individual component scores were recorded and comparisons were made between Crohn's and IBS patients.

RESULTS

Mean CDAI scores were higher in the IBS patients (183 vs. 157, P = 0.1). Sixty-two per cent (n = 29) of IBS patients had CDAI scores greater than 150. Mean CDAI haematocrit score (35.9 vs. 23.0, P = 0.02) and CRP level (6.8 vs. 2.0, P = 0.002) were higher in the Crohn's group. Analysis of CDAI sub-scores demonstrated that IBS patients had significantly higher pain (mean 1.7 vs. 0.8, P = 0.0007) and well-being scores (mean 1.2 vs. 0.8, P = 0.04) relative to patients with Crohn's. Specifically evaluating patients with CDAI greater than 150 (n = 51), IBS patients had higher pain sub-scores (mean 2.4 vs. 1.4, P = 0.002), whereas patients with Crohn's had higher CRP (mean 8.4 vs. 1.8, P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates that the CDAI does not discriminate patients with symptoms due to active Crohn's from patients with IBS. Patients with IBS can have CDAI scores in the clinically meaningful range. Objective measures, such as CDAI haematocrit score and CRP, are more specific markers of inflammation.

Prevalence of Linguatula serrata Nymphs in Mesenteric Lymph Nodes of Cattle and Buffaloes Slaughtered in Ahvaz Abattoir, Iran

BACKGROUND

Linguatula serrata, one of the parasitic zoonoses, inhabits the canine respiratory system (final hosts). The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence rate of L. serrata nymphs in mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) of cattle and buffaloes (intermediate hosts) that were processed in the Ahvaz, Iran abattoir.

METHODS

During November 2010 to March 2011, 223 animals (119 cattle and 104 buffaloes), in different sex and three age groups (<2, 2-< 3 and 3-> 3 years old) were sampled randomly at Ahvaz abattoir. Up to 35 grams of their mesenteric lymph nodes were examined separately for nymphal stages of L. serrata by digesting the samples with acid- pepsin method, collected the nymphs and counted under stereomicroscope.

RESULTS

Overall 37(16.6%) of 223 animals were infected with L. serrata nymphs in their mesenteric lymph nodes. Prevalence of the infection in cattle and buffaloes were 16.8% and 16.3% respectively. The number of collected nymphs of MLNs was ranged from 1 to 16. No significant differences were seen in the infection rates between males and females (sexes) and age groups in the cattle and buffaloes (P <0.05).

CONCLUSION

Linguatula serrata has an active life cycle in the studied area and a zoonotic potential for transmission between animal and human. Avoiding use of raw MLNs to dogs can help reduce the infection.

Enzymatic modification of regenerated cellulosic fabrics to improve bacteria sorption properties

This research investigates the effect of enzymatic treatment of two different regenerated cellulosic fibers (Lyocell and viscose) on their ability of bacteria sorption from an aqueous suspension. The sorption of Escherichia coli (E. coli, Gram negative) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus, Gram positive) cells by treated Lyocell and viscose fabrics were determined by measuring the optical density (OD) of the remaining bacteria suspension after removal of the fabric samples using spectrometry. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were utilized to investigate structural and morphological changes of the enzyme treated samples. The result showed that the moisture content and crystallinity of both viscose and Lyocell samples increased after enzymatic treatment. Comparing the results of OD measurements indicated that enzymatic treatment of cellulosic samples significantly increased the bacteria absorption properties compared to those untreated samples. However, treated samples showed different ranges of sorption ability with different kinds of bacteria. The maximum bacteria sorption of 38% and 37% of E. coli bacteria from an aqueous suspension was found for the treated viscose and Lyocell samples compared with only 20% and 10% of the untreated viscose and Lyocell samples, respectively. It was also found that S. aureus sorption of cellulose-treated viscose and Lyocell fabrics from a bacterial suspension could significantly improve up to 33% compared with only 5% of untreated samples. Furthermore, SEM micrographs confirmed that bacterial sorption of the cellulose-treated samples were effectively improved in terms of their uniform sorption on the fibers surface.

Study of promoter methylation pattern of 14-3-3 sigma gene in normal and cancerous tissue of breast: A potential biomarker for detection of breast cancer in patients

Background:

In recent years, DNA methylation as a main epigenetic modification in human cancer is found as a promising biomarker in early detection of breast cancer. Possible applications of numerous hypermethylated genes have been reported in diagnosis of breast cancer but there has been a little comprehensive study on the clinical usefulness of these genes in breast cancer. The aim of the present study was to investigate the promoter methylation status of 14-3-3 sigma gene with the goal of developing a diagnostic application in breast cancer.

Materials and Methods:

Totally 40 cases of cancerous and noncancerous tissues were studied. DNA was extracted from tissue samples, and promoter methylation pattern was determined by using methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction.

Results:

Methylation pattern of 14-3-3 sigma promoter significantly differed between control and malignant breast tissues (P = 0.001), and there was no remarkable correlation between methylation and age (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

The relationship of promoter methylation of 14-3-3 sigma with development of breast cancer found in this study and confirmed the results of previous reports suggests that we can provide the foundation for possible application of 14-3-3 sigma as a potential biomarker for early detection and monitoring disease status.

Neuroprotective properties of Melissa officinalis after hypoxic-ischemic injury both in vitro and in vivo

Background

Brain ischemia initiates several metabolic events leading to neuronal death. These events mediate large amount of damage that arises after some neurodegenerative disorders as well as transient brain ischemia. Melissa officinalis is considered as a helpful herbal plant in the prevention of various neurological diseases like Alzheimer that is related with oxidative stress.

Methods

We examined the effect of Melissa officinalis on hypoxia induced neuronal death in a cortical neuronal culture system as in vitro model and transient hippocampal ischemia as in vivo model. Transient hippocampal ischemia was induced in male rats by tow vessel-occlusion for 20 min. After reperfusion, the histopathological changes and the levels inflammation, oxidative stress status, and caspase-3 activity in hippocampus were measured.

Results

Cytotoxicity assays showed a significant protection of a 10 μg/ml dose of Melissa against hypoxia in cultured neurons which was confirmed by a conventional staining (P<0.05). Melissa treatment decrease caspase3 activity (P<0.05) and TUNEL-positive cells significantly (P<0.01). Melissa oil has also inhibited malon dialdehyde level and attenuated decrease of Antioxidant Capacity in the hippocampus. Pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β and HIF-1α mRNA levels were highly increased after ischemia and treatment with Melissa significantly suppressed HIF-1α gene expression (P<0.05).

Discussion

Results showed that Melissa officinalis could be considered as a protective agent in various neurological diseases associated with ischemic brain injury.

Noise-induced Outer Hair Cells' Dysfunction and Cochlear Damage in Rabbits

BACKGROUND

Outer hair cells' (OHCs') dysfunctions as the extent of temporary and permanent threshold shifts (TTS and PTS) and cochlear damage were assessed in rabbits exposed to continuous noise

METHODS

Twelve New Zealand white rabbits were studied in noise (N) (n=6; exposed to continuous noise; 95 dB SPL, 500-8000 Hz for 8 h per day during 5 consecutive days) and control (C) (n=6; not exposed to noise). OHCs' functions were assessed by distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) level (Ldp) measurements in different periods and comparing TTS and PTS. Animals were anaesthetized by CO2; cochleae were extracted, fixed in 10% formaldehyde for 48 hours, decalcified by 10% nitric acid for 24 hours, and dehydrated, embedded, sectioned 5 µm thickness and stained by Hematoxylin and Eosin for light microscopy.

RESULTS

The most and least Ldp or TTS or PTS were related to 5888.50 Hz and 588.00 Hz respectively in noise subjected rabbits (P<0.05). TTS and PTS were decreased up to 17.79 dB and to 16.01 dB respectively. TTS were more than PTS over all test frequencies, especially at 5888.50 Hz (P<0.05). Ldp or TTS or PTS were found to be equal across ears (P>0.05). Severely vacuolated OHCs, pyknotic IHCs, swollen SC, and slightly thickened BM were found.

CONCLUSION

Continuous noise extensively led to OHCs' dysfunctions as decreased Ldp (both TTS and PTS) and highly damage to cochlea.

Abstract A34: How important is comprehensive rearrangement testing for BRCA mutations in African American women with early-onset breast cancer?

Background: Young Black women are disproportionately afflicted with breast cancer, a proportion of which may be due to BRCA1 and BRCA2 (BRCA) gene mutations. Deleterious mutations in the BRCA genes include those identified by sequencing technology as well as large genomic rearrangements that are found with different technologies (i.e., multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA)). The sole provider of clinical BRCA genetic testing in the United States is Myriad Genetics Laboratories, the company which owns the patent on these genes. When BRCA testing is ordered through this company, the standard test is called ‘Comprehensive BRCAnalysis’, which includes BRCA sequencing and testing for five rearrangements in BRCA1. In addition, testing for large rearrangements has been available since 2006, but is ordered and billed as a separate test from Comprehensive BRCAnalysis (at a cost of $700, often as an out-of-pocket expense).

Objectives: In a cancer registry-based sample of Black women with early onset breast cancer, we evaluated prevalence of: 1) BRCA mutations; and 2) individuals who had BRCA testing (+counseling) predating study enrollment.

Methods: Black women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer &lt; age 50 in 2009-2010 were recruited through the Florida Cancer Registry utilizing state-mandated recruitment methods. Participants completed genetic counseling and a comprehensive risk factor questionnaire which included uptake of clinical BRCA testing pre-dating study enrollment. All participants consented to medical record release, including release of prior genetic test results. Saliva specimens were collected and BRCA testing was performed on all individuals through full gene sequencing and comprehensive rearrangement testing.

Results: Of the first 48 participants in whom results of genetic testing are currently available through the study, two mutations in the BRCA genes were detected. Both mutations were identified in women who had undergone comprehensive BRCAnalysis pre-dating study enrollment. This included one participant identified to have a deleterious BRCA2 mutation through prior clinical testing (BRCA2 exon11 5844del5), in whom the same mutation was detected through the study. The second mutation was identified through comprehensive rearrangement testing (BRCA1 delExon8) in a woman who had previously had clinical BRCA testing during her breast cancer treatment in whom no mutation was detected through ‘Comprehensive BRCAnalaysis’. Of note, 15 women overall (31.3%) had clinical BRCA testing pre-dating study enrollment, which included both women identified as mutation carriers.

Conclusions: Our findings suggest that it is critical to offer comprehensive rearrangement testing as part of BRCA testing in African American women, as one of the two mutations identified in our study was only identified through MLPA. Furthermore, in contrast to prior publications which suggest low uptake of BRCA testing in African American women, our results suggest reasonable uptake of BRCA testing in a registry-based sample of African American women with rates comparable to that previously reported in White women.

Citation Format: Tuya PalDevon Bonner, Mohammad Akbari, Steven Narod, Susan Vadaparampil. How important is comprehensive rearrangement testing for BRCA mutations in African American women with early-onset breast cancer? [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Fifth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2012 Oct 27-30; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2012;21(10 Suppl):Abstract nr A34.