Deciphering the mechanisms and interactions of the endocrine disruptor bisphenol A and its analogs with the androgen receptor

Bisphenol A (BPA) and its various forms used as BPA alternatives in industries are recognized toxic compounds and antiandrogenic endocrine disruptors. These chemicals are widespread in the environment and frequently detected in biological samples. Concerns exist about their impact on hormones, disrupting natural biological processes in humans, together with their negative impacts on the environment and biotic life. This study aims to characterize the interaction between BPA analogs and the androgen receptor (AR) and the effect on the receptor's normal activity. To achieve this goal, molecular docking was conducted with BPA and its analogs and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) as a reference ligand. Four BPA analogs exhibited higher affinity (-10.2 to -8.7 kcal/mol) for AR compared to BPA (-8.6 kcal/mol), displaying distinct interaction patterns. Interestingly, DHT (-11.0 kcal/mol) shared a binding pattern with BPA. ADMET analysis of the top 10 compounds, followed by molecular dynamics simulations, revealed toxicity and dynamic behavior. Experimental studies demonstrated that only BPA disrupts DHT-induced AR dimerization, thereby affecting AR's function due to its binding nature. This similarity to DHT was observed during computational analysis. These findings emphasize the importance of targeted strategies to mitigate BPA toxicity, offering crucial insights for interventions in human health and environmental well-being.

Genome-wide transcriptome analysis reveals that bisphenol A activates immune responses in skeletal muscle

Cumulative human exposure to the environmental toxin, bisphenol A (BPA), has raised important health concerns in recent decades. However, the direct genomic regulation of BPA in skeletal muscles and its clinical significance are poorly understood. Therefore, we conducted a genome-wide transcriptome analysis after daily oral administration of BPA at the lowest observed adverse-effect level (LOAEL, 50 mg/kg) in male mice for six weeks to explore the gene-expression regulations in skeletal muscle induced by BPA. The primary Gene Ontology terms linked to BPA-dependent, differentially expressed genes at LOAEL comprised adaptive-immune response, positive regulation of T cell activation, and immune system process. The gene-set enrichment analysis disclosed increased complement-associated genes [complement components 3 (C3) and 4B, complement factor D, complement receptor 2, and immunoglobulin lambda constant 2] in the group administered with BPA, with a false-discovery rate of < 0.05. Subsequent validation analysis conducted in BPA-fed animal skeletal muscle tissue and in vitro experiments confirmed that BPA induced immune activation, as evidenced by increased levels of C3 and C4α proteins in mice, C2C12 myoblasts, and mouse skeletal muscle cells. In addition, BPA markedly upregulated the transcription of tumor necrosis factor-α (Tnfα) in C2C12 myoblasts and mouse skeletal muscle cells, which was substantially inhibited by 5z-7-oxozeanol and parthenolide, providing further evidence of BPA-induced inflammation in muscle cells. Our bioinformatics and subsequent animal and in vitro validations demonstrate that BPA can activate inflammation in skeletal muscle, which could be a risk factor underlying chronic muscle weakness and wastage.

Beauvericin, produced by Fusarium oxysporum inhibits bisphenol A-induced proliferation of human breast cancer cell line by regulating ERα/p38 pathway

Beauvericin (BEA) is a cyclic depsipeptide secondary metabolite of Fusarium species. It causes chemical hazards in food products and exists in an environment containing soil and various food types. On the other hand, the purified BEA has various biological activities and is regarded as a potential candidate for pharmaceutical research. This study was performed to assess the anti-proliferation activity of BEA against human breast cancer cells by regulating the estrogen receptor-alpha (ERα)/p38 pathway. TA and BA assays verified that BEA is a completed ER antagonist. Additionally, BEA suppressed cell proliferation in the anti-proliferation assay involving ER-positive human breast cancer cells co-treated with BPA and BEA. In respect to an anti-proliferation activity, the BPA-induced phosphorylation of p38 protein was inhibited in the presence of BEA. These results suggested that BEA exerts inhibitory potentials on endocrine disrupting effect and possibly acts as a natural therapeutic material for human estrogen hormonal health.

Effect of the storage temperature on the quality of eggs inoculated with Salmonella Enteritidis onto shell

This study explored the temperature-dependent effect on the growth characteristics of Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) on eggshell toward identifying an appropriate storage temperature for unwashed eggs in an actual distribution environment. Among the test storage temperatures (10 °C, 25 °C, and 35 °C), 25 °C was determined to be an appropriate storage temperature, with no effect of changing temperature on the control of SE on eggshell. Regarding the effect of the temperature on egg quality, the quality indicators of egg such as Haugh unit, yolk index, albumin index, and albumin pH were significantly maintained. These results indicated that unwashed eggs should be distributed at 25 °C for SE control, and the storage temperature should be below 10 °C from at least day 4 onward after the start of distribution to maintain egg quality. This study will assist for safety management of unwashed egg in an actual distribution environment.

Mechanistic insight into human androgen receptor-mediated endocrine disrupting potential of cyclic depsipeptide mycotoxin, beauvericin, and influencing environmental factors for its biosynthesis in Fusarium oxysporum KFCC 11363P on rice cereal

In current study, Fusarium mycotoxin, beauvericin (BEA), has endocrine disrupting potential through suppressing the exogenous androgen receptor (AR)-mediated transcriptional activation. BEA was classified as an AR antagonist, with IC30 and IC50 values indicating that it suppressed AR dimerization in the cytosol. BEA suppress the translocation of cytosolic activated ARs to the nucleus via exogenous androgens. Furthermore, we investigated the impact of environmental conditions for BEA production on rice cereal using response surface methodology. The environmental factors affecting the production of BEA, namely temperature, initial moisture content, and growth time were optimized at 20.28 °C, 42.79 % (w/w), and 17.31 days, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report showing that BEA has endocrine disrupting potential through suppressing translocation of cytosolic ARs to nucleus, and temperature, initial moisture content, and growth time are important influencing environmental factors for its biosynthesis in Fusarium strains on cereal.

Statistical optimization of environmental factors to produce the cytotoxic enniatins H, I and MK1688 against human multidrug resistance cancer cell lines

The environmental conditions were optimized to produce the enniatin H, I, and MK1688 by Fusarium strain on cereal grain exhibiting anti-carcinogenic potential against MES-SA (human uterine sarcoma cell line), HCT15 (human colorectal carcinoma cancer cell line), and their multidrug resistance sublines. From the statistical optimization by response surface methodology, the optimal condition of independent variables affecting the response variables were 20.85 °C (temperature), 46.85% (w/w, initial moisture content), and 18.42 days (growth time) for ENN H; 23.31 °C, 44.15% (w/w) and 17.23 days for ENN I; 23.08 °C, 43.97% (w/w) and 17.06 days for ENN MK1688. In case of cytotoxic effects, ENNs significantly suppressed growth of cancer cell lines without multidrug resistance, and ENN I inhibited growth of cancer cell lines most strongly. These data will provide valuable point to produce the cyclic hexadepsipeptide exhibiting anti-carcinogenic potential from Fusarium strains.

Stimulation of estrogen receptor-alpha by hydroxyanilide fungicide, fenhexamid promotes lipid accumulation in 3 T3-L1 adipocyte

Fenhexamid are fungicides that act against plant pathogens by inhibiting sterol biosynthesis. Nonetheless, it can trigger endocrine disruption and promote breast cancer cell growth. In a recent study, we investigated the mechanism underlying the lipid accumulation induced by fenhexamid hydroxyanilide fungicides in 3 T3-L1 adipocytes. To examine the estrogen receptor alpha (ERα)-agonistic effect, ER transactivation assay using the ERα-HeLa-9903 cell line was applied, and fenhexamid-induced ERα agonist effect was confirmed. Further confirmation that ERα-dependent lipid accumulation occurred was provided by treating 3 T3-L1 adipocytes with Methyl-piperidino-pyrazole hydrate (MPP), an ERα-selective antagonist. Fenhexamid mimicked the actions of ERα agonists and impacted lipid metabolism, and its mechanism involves upregulation of the expression of transcription factors that facilitate adipogenesis and lipogenesis. Additionally, it stimulated the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPARγ), CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α (C/EBPα), fatty acid synthase (FAS), and sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP1) and significantly elevated the expression of fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4). In contrast, in combination with an ERα-selective antagonist, fenhexamid suppressed the expression of adipogenic/lipogenic transcription factors. These results suggest that fenhexamid affects the endocrine system and leads to lipid accumulation by interfering with processes influenced by ERα activation.

Search for Boosted Dark Matter in COSINE-100

We search for energetic electron recoil signals induced by boosted dark matter (BDM) from the galactic center using the COSINE-100 array of NaI(Tl) crystal detectors at the Yangyang Underground Laboratory. The signal would be an excess of events with energies above 4 MeV over the well-understood background. Because no excess of events are observed in a 97.7  kg·yr exposure, we set limits on BDM interactions under a variety of hypotheses. Notably, we explored the dark photon parameter space, leading to competitive limits compared to direct dark photon search experiments, particularly for dark photon masses below 4 MeV and considering the invisible decay mode. Furthermore, by comparing our results with a previous BDM search conducted by the Super-Kamionkande experiment, we found that the COSINE-100 detector has advantages in searching for low-mass dark matter. This analysis demonstrates the potential of the COSINE-100 detector to search for MeV electron recoil signals produced by the dark sector particle interactions.

Monthly distribution of lipophilic marine biotoxins and associated microalgae in the South Sea Coast of Korea throughout 2021

Aquaculture farms have been established along the South Sea Coast of Korea, supplying most of the seafood consumed domestically. However, annual harmful algal blooms pose a potential threat to seafood safety. This study aimed to determine the spatial and seasonal distributions of 12 lipophilic marine biotoxins (LMTs) in phytoplankton and mussels in the region in 2021. Solid-phase adsorption toxin tracking (SPATT) was used to monitor the cumulative compositions of LMTs in seawater. LMT concentrations were also determined in twelve commercially available species of domestic shellfish to evaluate the potential risks to human health. Gonyaulux spinifera and Dinophysis acuminata, causative microalgae of yessotoxins (YTXs) and pectenotoxins (PTXs), respectively, showed high densities in the region from May to July. This period corresponded to high LMT concentrations in phytoplankton and mussels. Phytoplankton mainly contained PTX-2 and homo-YTX, with a maximum concentration of 2300 ng g-1 wet weight (ww) in May. In contrast, mussels mainly contained homo-YTX and YTX, with a maximum concentration of 1300 ng g-1 ww in July. LMTs-producing microalgae showed low densities and concentrations after July, whereas mussels accumulated toxins until September. In the SPATT sampler, more diverse LMTs were detected than in seawater, phytoplankton, and mussels. For example, dinophysistoxin-1 and azaspiracid-2 were detected only in SPATT. YTXs were detected in domestic seafood samples, including mussels, red scallops, and pen shells, but the concentrations were below the European Food Safety Agency recommended standard of 3.75 mg YTX-eq. kg-1. Moreover, the hazard quotient was less than 100 in all scenarios, indicating that the human health risk was not significant. This study provides valuable data on monthly distribution patterns of LMTs in the South Sea Coast of Korea and can serve as baseline data for future management policies of marine biotoxins.

A randomised controlled trial of the analgesia nociception index for intra-operative remifentanil dose and pain after gynaecological laparotomy

We aimed to investigate the effect of the analgesia nociception index on postoperative pain. We randomly allocated 170 women scheduled for gynaecological laparotomy and analysed results from 159: in 80 women, remifentanil was infused to maintain analgesia nociception indices 50-70; and in 79 women, remifentanil was infused to maintain systolic blood pressure < 120% of baseline values. The primary outcome was the proportion of women with pain scores ≥ 5 (scale 0-10) within 40 min of admission to recovery. The proportion of women with pain scores ≥ 5 was 62/80 (78%) vs. 64/79 (81%), p = 0.73. Mean (SD) doses of fentanyl in recovery were 53.6 (26.9) μg vs. 54.8 (20.8) μg, p = 0.74. Intra-operative remifentanil doses were 0.124 (0.050) μg.kg-1 .min-1 vs. 0.129 (0.044) μg.kg-1 .min-1 , p = 0.55.

The rocky road to freedom: number of countries transited during defection and risk of metabolic syndrome among North Korean Refugees in South Korea

OBJECTIVES

North Korean Refugees (NKRs) undergo defection, and this has been shown to impact their current health status in South Korea. However, little is understood about how the defection process is related to metabolic syndrome (MetS). This study regarded the defection process to be a quasi-measurement of traumatic experience and investigated whether defection was a risk factor for MetS among NKRs living in South Korea.

STUDY DESIGN

This cross-sectional study obtained data from the Korea University Anam Hospital in Seoul. NKRs (N = 847) voluntarily completed questionnaires and underwent at least one medical examination between October 2008 and July 2021.

METHODS

Multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate whether the number of countries transited by NKRs was associated with MetS by controlling for covariates.

RESULTS

The prevalence of MetS among male and female NKRs in South Korea was 12.3% and 13.3%, respectively. The highest prevalence of MetS (33.4%) was among NKRs who had transited two countries. The number of months in transit countries (mean: 49.9 ± 51.7) and period of residence in South Korea (mean: 40.9 ± 40.9 months) were also considered. NKRs who transited three countries had a higher probability of MetS (odds ratio [OR] 2.660, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.161-6.097) than those who travelled directly to South Korea. NKRs who transited three countries and had only resided in South Korea for a short period had a higher probability of MetS (OR 3.424, 95% CI 1.149-10.208) than those who have lived in South Korea for a longer period.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering the social vulnerability of NKRs and consequential health problems, there is an urgent need for appropriate support from the government and society.

Inhibitory Effects of Wheat Sprouts Extract on RANKL-Induced Osteoclast Differentiation via Suppressing MAPK and NFATc1 Signaling Pathways

The maintenance of bone is dependent on both osteoclasts, which break down bone, and osteoblasts, which build new bone. Various bone-related disorders, including osteoporosis, can occur as a result of an imbalance between these two cell types. Prolonged use of currently available bone resorption inhibitors may show side effects. Therefore, developing a novel preventive material which effectively inhibits osteoclast differentiation could be beneficial. This study planned to investigate the inhibitory effect of wheat sprout ethanolic extracts (Saegeumgang [SGG] and Arriheuk [ARH]) on the differentiation of osteoclasts induced by RANKL, as well as the mechanisms why fundamental to these effects. The effects of SGG and ARH on bone resorption and osteoclast differentiation were evaluated using RAW 264.7 cells and assessed through TRAP cell count, pit formation, and activity. The expressions of mRNA and protein were accomplished using western blotting, and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses were conducted. SGG and ARH were found to suppress osteoclast differentiation in RANKL-stimulated RAW264.7 cells without causing cytotoxic effects. In addition, treatment with SGG and ARH led to a reduction in the number of cells with positive staining for TRAP and TRAP activity. SGG and ARH treatment dose-dependently decreased the pit area in pit formation assays, showing a notable reduction compared to the pit area created by mature osteoclasts. SGG and ARH inhibited osteoclast activity by 84.9% and 95.7% at 200 μg/mL, respectively. In addition, SGG and ARH suppressed the transcriptional activation of various osteoclast-related genes, such as RANK, NFATc1, cathepsin K, c-Fos, TRAP, matrix metallopeptidase-9, dendritic cell-specific transmembrane protein, ATPase H+ transporting v0 subunit d2, and osteoclast-associated receptor in RAW264.7 cells treated with RANKL. SGG and ARH extracts were found to affect the expression of NFATc1 and genes that are specific to osteoclasts during osteoclast differentiation, suggesting their potential use as functional foods or as therapeutic interventions targeting bone health.

The triazole fungicide metconazole inhibits the homodimerization of human androgen receptors to suppress androgen-induced transcriptional activation

We assessed the mechanism of human androgen receptor-mediated endocrine-disrupting effect by a triazole fungicide, metconazole in this study. The internationally validated stably transfected transactivation (STTA) in vitro assay, which was established for determination of a human androgen receptor (AR) agonist/antagonist by using 22Rv1/MMTV_GR-KO cell line, alongside an in vitro reporter-gene assay to confirm AR homodimerization was used. The STTA in vitro assay results showed that metconazole is a true AR antagonist. Furthermore, the results from the in vitro reporter-gene assay and western blotting showed that metconazole blocks the nuclear transfer of cytoplasmic AR proteins by suppressing the homodimerization of AR. These results suggest that metconazole can be considered to have an AR-mediated endocrine-disrupting effect. Additionally, the evidence from this study might help identify the endocrine-disrupting mechanism of triazole fungicides containing a phenyl ring.

Chlorpropham, a carbamate ester herbicide, has an endocrine-disrupting potential by inhibiting the homodimerization of human androgen receptor

This study was carried out to provide the evidence with respect to the adverse potential of chlorpropham, a representative carbamate ester herbicide product, on the endocrine system by using in vitro testing methods in accordance with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development Test Guideline No. 458 (22Rv1/MMTV_GR-KO human androgen receptor [AR] transcriptional activation assay) and a bioluminescence resonance energy transfer-based AR homodimerization assay. Results revealed that chlorpropham had no AR agonistic effects, but it was determined to be a true AR antagonist without intrinsic toxicity against the applied cell lines. In the mechanism of chlorpropham-induced AR-mediated adverse effects, chlorpropham suppressed cytoplasmic AR translocation to the nucleus by inhibiting the homodimerization of the activated ARs. This suggests that chlorpropham exposure caused endocrine-disrupting effects through its interactions with human AR. Additionally, this study might help identify the genomic pathway of the AR-mediated endocrine-disrupting potential of N-phenyl carbamate herbicides.

Effects of gypenoside L-containing Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract on fatigue and physical performance: A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract containing gypenoside L (GPE) on improving the cognitive aspects of fatigue and performance of the motor system. One hundred healthy Korean adults aged 19-60 years were randomized to the treatment (GPE for 12 weeks) and control groups, and efficacy and safety-related parameters were compared between the two groups. Maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂ max) and O₂ pulse were significantly higher in the treatment group than in the control group (p = 0.007 and p = 0.047, respectively). After 12 weeks, the treatment group showed significant changes such as decreases in the levels of free fatty acids (p = 0.042). In addition, there were significant differences in the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) (p < 0.05) and value of temporal fatigue between the treatment and control groups on the multidimensional fatigue scale (p < 0.05). Moreover, the level of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in the blood was significantly higher in the treatment group than in the control group (p = 0.047). In summary, oral administration of GPE has a positive effect on resistance to exercise-induced physical and mental fatigue.

Azole pesticide products and their hepatic metabolites cause endocrine disrupting potential by suppressing the homo-dimerization of human estrogen receptor alpha

We selected azole pesticides products that are managed by setting maximum residue limits (MRLs) in the Republic of Korea and describe the estrogen receptor (ER) α-related negative effect to endocrine system using in vitro Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development performance-based test guideline. No azoles were found to be an ERα agonist. Conversely, three azoles (bitertanol, cafenstrole, and tebufenpyrad) were determined to be ERα antagonists. In addition, the ERα antagonistic activities of bitertanol, cafenstrole, and tebufenpyrad were not significantly perturbed in the existence of phase I (hydroxylation, dealkylation, oxidation or reduction) and phase II (conjugation). Regarding the mechanism underlying their ERα-mediated endocrine disrupting potentials, ERα proteins cannot be translocated to the nucleus by suppressing the dimerization of ERα in the cytoplasm by bitertanol, cafenstrole, and tebufenpyrad. These data indicated that azole pesticide products show the capability to interfere the ERα-related human endocrine system. Furthermore, we identified the mechanism of ERα-mediated endocrine disrupting by azole insecticide products through this study.

Endocrine disrupting potential of selected azole and organophosphorus pesticide products through suppressing the dimerization of human androgen receptor in genomic pathway

Several pesticides widely used in agriculture have been considered to be endocrine disrupting chemicals through their binding affinities to estrogen or androgen receptors. This study was conducted to clarify the human androgen receptor (hAR)-mediated genomic endocrine disrupting mechanism of eight selected pesticide products by in vitro assay providing the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development Test Guideline No. 458, 22Rv1/MMTV_GR-KO AR transcriptional activation assay and a homo-dimerization confirmation assay. None of the tested pesticide products showed an AR agonistic effect, whereas they were all determined to be AR antagonists at non-toxic concentrations. Also, the eight pesticide products were verified as true AR antagonists through a specificity control test. In the Bioluminescence Resonance Energy Transfer-based AR homo-dimerization confirmation assay, the eight pesticide products did not induce AR homo-dimerization. Additionally, western blotting revealed that none of the eight pesticide products induced AR translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. In conclusion, we found for the first-time evidence to understand the AR-mediated endocrine disrupting mechanisms induced by selected azole and organophosphorus pesticide products.

Spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of yessotoxins and pectenotoxins in phytoplankton and shellfish collected from the southern coast of South Korea

The distribution characteristics of lipophilic marine biotoxins (LMTs), such as yessotoxins (YTXs) and pectenotoxins (PTXs) in phytoplankton, mussels, and commercial seafood were determined for the southern coast of South Korea. Gonyaulax spinifera and Dinophysis acuminata, which are the causative microalgae of YTXs and PTXs, were recorded during summer. Homo-YTX and PTX-2 were predominantly detected in phytoplankton (max: 5.7 μg g^-1 ww), whereas only YTXs were detected in mussels (max: 1.1 μg g^-1 ww). LMT concentrations in mussels were positively correlated with those in phytoplankton. However, there was a 1-month time gap in maximum LMT concentrations between mussels and phytoplankton. Homo-YTX was detected in commercial seafood, including red scallop and comb pen shell. However, homo-YTX concentrations in shellfish were below the recommended value of the European Food Safety Authority (3.75 mg YTX equivalents kg^-1); thus, the consumption of this seafood was not considered to be a significant risk for human health.

Correlations between skeletal maturity and dental calcification stages in Korean children

AIM

To evaluate the relationship between dental calcification and skeletal maturity and to identify the tooth with the highest correlation with skeletal maturity index in Korean children.

MATERIALS

For 447 children (205 boys and 242 girls) aged between 5 and 13 years, hand-wrist and lateral cephalometric radiographs were taken to assess skeletal maturity by Fishman's skeletal maturity indicators (SMI) and Baccetti's cervical vertebrae maturation (CVM) stages. Dental panoramic radiographs were taken to assess dental maturity of the permanent mandibular canine, first and second premolar, and second molar using the method devised by Dermirjian.

CONCLUSION

Dental calcification stages determined by panoramic radiographs can be clinically used as useful indices to predict skeletal maturity in Korean children.

Long-term outcomes of ruptured hepatocellular carcinoma: An international multicentric propensity score-matched study

Objective

Long-term outcomes of patients with ruptured hepatocellular carcinoma (rHCC) remain scant. This study aimed to assess disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) after surgical resection of rHCC compared to non-ruptured HCC (nrHCC).

Methods

Patients with rHCC and nrHCC were collected from 8 centers in Europe, Asia, and North America. Resected rHCC patients were matched 1:1 to patients undergoing surgery for nrHCC using propensity score and nearest-neighbor method (matching criteria: age, tumor size, cirrhosis, Child-Pugh score, Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage, resection status, grade, and microvascular invasion). Survival rates were calculated using Kaplan-Meier method.

Results

A total of 2033 patients were included: 226 rHCC patients (172 operated: 68 with upfront surgery and 104 after embolization) and 1807 nrHCC patients. Median DFS and OS of rHCC patients (all treatments confounded) were 10 months (95% CI 7–13) and 22 months (95% CI 13–31). Prognostic factors for worse OS among rHCC patients were absence of preoperative arterial embolization (HR 2.3, 95% CI 1.2–4.6, p=0.016), cirrhosis Child B/C (HR 2.4, 95% CI 1.1–5.4, p=0.040), and R1/R2 margins (HR 2, 95% CI 1–5, p=0.049). Survivals were similar between Western and Eastern rHCC patients.

After propensity score matching, 106 rHCC patients and 106 nrHCC patients displayed similar characteristics. Patients with rHCC had shorter median DFS (12 months, 95% CI 7–17 vs. 22 months, 95% CI 12–32, p=0.011), but similar median OS compared to nrHCC patients (43 months, 95% CI 21–65 vs. 63 months, 95% CI 21–105, p=0.060).

Conclusion

In this large dataset including Eastern and Western patients, rHCC was associated with shorter DFS compared to nrHCC, while OS was similar.

High-precision measurement of the W boson mass with the CDF II detector

The mass of the W boson, a mediator of the weak force between elementary particles, is tightly constrained by the symmetries of the standard model of particle physics. The Higgs boson was the last missing component of the model. After observation of the Higgs boson, a measurement of the W boson mass provides a stringent test of the model. We measure the W boson mass, M_W, using data corresponding to 8.8 inverse femtobarns of integrated luminosity collected in proton-antiproton collisions at a 1.96 tera-electron volt center-of-mass energy with the CDF II detector at the Fermilab Tevatron collider. A sample of approximately 4 million W boson candidates is used to obtain [Formula: see text], the precision of which exceeds that of all previous measurements combined (stat, statistical uncertainty; syst, systematic uncertainty; MeV, mega-electron volts; c, speed of light in a vacuum). This measurement is in significant tension with the standard model expectation.

An In vitro dimerization assay for the adverse outcome pathway approach in risk assessment of human estrogen receptor α-mediated endocrine-disrupting chemicals

The adverse outcome pathway (AOP) has been recently proposed as an effective framework for chemical risk assessment. The AOP framework offers the advantage of effectively integrating individual in vitro studies and in silico prediction models. Thus, the development of an effective testing method to measure key events caused by chemicals is essential for chemical risk assessment through a fully developed AOP framework. We developed a human cell-based estrogen receptor α (ERα) dimerization assay using the bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) technique and evaluated the ERα dimerization activities of 72 chemicals. Fifty-one chemicals were identified to mediate dimerization of ERα, and the BRET-based ERα dimerization assay could effectively measure the events that mediated dimerization of ERα by the estrogenic chemicals. These results were compared with the results of pre-existing assay to determine whether the BRET-based ERα dimerization assay could be employed as an in vitro test method to provide scientific information for explaining key events as a part of the AOP framework. Consequently, we propose that the BRET-based ERα dimerization assay is suitable for measuring the chemical-mediated dimerization of ERα, a key event in the AOP framework for cellular-level risk assessment of estrogenic chemicals.

Comparative study of estrogenic activities of phytoestrogens using OECD in vitro and in vivo testing methods

With growing scientific interest in phytoestrogens, a number of studies have investigated the estrogenic potential of phytoestrogens in a wide variety of assay systems. However, evaluations of individual phytoestrogens with different assay systems make it difficult for predicting their relative estrogenic potency. The objective of this study was to compare estrogenic properties of fifteen known phytoestrogens using an estrogen receptor-α (ER-α) dimerization assay and Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) standardized methods including in vitro estrogen receptor (ER) transactivation assay using VM7Luc4E2 cells and in vivo uterotrophic assay using an immature rat model. Human ER-α dimerization assay showed positive responses of eight test compounds and negative responses of seven compounds. These results were consistently found in luciferase reporter assay results for evaluating ER transactivation ability. Seven test compounds exhibiting relatively higher in vitro estrogenic activities were subjected to uterotrophic bioassays. Significant increases in uterine weights were only found after treatments with biochanin A, 8-prenylnaringenin, and coumestrol. Importantly, their uterotrophic effects were lost when animals were co-treated with antagonist of ER, indicating their ER-dependent effects in the uterus. In addition, analysis of estrogen responsive genes revealed that these phytoestrogens regulated uterine gene expressions differently compared to estrogens. Test methods used in this study provided a high consistency between in vitro and in vivo results. Thus, they could be used as effective screening tools for phytoestrogens, particularly focusing on their interactions with ER-α.

Evaluation of Estrogen Receptor Agonistic Activity of Medicinal Herbs Using Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development Transactivation Assay with Rat Liver S9 Fraction

A number of studies employing different in vitro assays have demonstrated the estrogen-like activity of natural substances. All assays have their advantages and limitations as a screening tool. No single in vitro assay is considered ideal for predicting estrogenic action in a complex in vivo system. To assess agonistic activities of several medicinal herbs on the estrogen receptor (ER) and their metabolic alteration, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Performance-Based Test Guideline No. 455 in vitro assay was performed in this study using recombinant VM7Luc4E2 cells in combination with rat liver S9 fractions. Ethanol extracts of medicinal herbs showed binding affinities for ER-α and ER-β at different levels. However, luciferase reporter assay using VM7Luc4E2 cells revealed that only two test extracts [Pueraria lobata root extract (PLE); Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract (GGE)] exhibited ER transcriptional activity when their activities were compared with the response by 17β-estradiol. Importantly, incubation of PLE or GGE with rat liver S9 fractions increased their ER transcriptional activities, in particular when phase I metabolic enzymes were activated. Puerarin and glabridin were the most abundant isoflavones found in PLE and GGE, respectively. The present results demonstrate that PLE and GGE possess potential as ER agonists with their metabolic activation. This study also suggests that the application of OECD in vitro assay with rat liver S9 fraction is an efficient screening tool to evaluate estrogenic activities of natural substances.

Mechanistic insight into human androgen receptor-mediated endocrine-disrupting potentials by a stable bioluminescence resonance energy transfer-based dimerization assay

To develop a novel cell-based assay to evaluate the androgenic endocrine-disrupting properties of chemical substances, we established a method to detect ligand-mediated androgen receptor (AR) dimerization in stably transfected human cell lines using a bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) system. Using stably transfected human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cells, the BRET-based AR dimerization assay was optimized as a novel test method and was validated using test chemicals recommended by the Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Validation of Alternative Methods (ICCVAM). The BRET-based AR dimerization assay showed high accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity for the detection of androgenic endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), and the assay protocol is adequate for practical use. This dimerization assay is based on ligand-mediated hormone receptor dimerization and can provide accurate information about androgenic endocrine-disrupting properties at the cellular level, complementing conventional binding and transactivation assays.

Functional expression and extracellular secretion of Clostridium thermocellum Cel48S cellulase in Escherichia coli via the signal recognition particle-dependent translocation pathway

As the only glycoside hydrolase family 48 member in Clostridium thermocellum, the exoglucanase Cel48S plays a crucial role in the extremely high activity of the cellulosome against crystalline cellulose. Although the importance of Cel48S in the hydrolysis of crystalline cellulose has been widely accepted, an efficient production system has not yet been established because Cel48S is usually expressed in Escherichia coli within inactive inclusion bodies. For unstable proteins like Cel48S, translocation across the inner membrane can be more advantageous than cytoplasmic production due to the presence of folding modulators in the periplasm and the absence of cytoplasmic proteases. In this study, we evaluated whether the production of Cel48S in the periplasmic space of E. coli could enhance its functional expression. To do so, we attached the PelB signal peptide, which mediates post-translational secretion, to the N-terminal end of Cel48S (P-Cel48S). The PelB signal peptide allowed catalytically active Cel48S to be successfully produced in the culture medium. In addition, we investigated the role of an alternative co-translational pathway on the extracellular production of Cel48S, finding that co-translational secretion yielded a specific activity of recombinant Cel48S of 135.1 ± 10.0 U/mg cell in the culture medium, which was 2.2 times higher than that associated with P-Cel48S expression. Therefore, we believe that our approach has potential applications for the cost-effective conversion of lignocellulosic biomass and the industrial production of other unstable proteins.

Endocrine disrupting potential of veterinary drugs by in vitro stably transfected human androgen receptor transcriptional activation assays

We describe the androgen receptor (AR) agonistic/antagonistic effects of 140 veterinary drugs regulated in Republic of Korea, by setting maximum residue limits. It was conducted using two in vitro test guidelines of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)-the AR-EcoScreen AR transactivation (TA) assay and the 22Rv1/MMTV_GR-KO AR TA assay. These were performed alongside the AR binding affinity assay to confirm whether their AR agonistic/antagonistic effects are based on the binding affinity to AR. Prior to conducting the AR TA assay, the proficiency test was passed the proficiency performance criterion for the AR agonist and AR antagonist assays. Among the veterinary drugs tested, four veterinary drugs (dexamethasone, trenbolone, altrenogest, and nandrolone) and six veterinary drugs (cymiazole, dexamethasone, zeranol, phenothiazine, bromopropylate, and isoeugenol) were determined as AR agonist and AR antagonist, respectively in both in vitro AR TA assays. Zeranol exhibited weak AR agonistic effects with a PC₁₀ value only in the 22Rv1/MMTV_GR-KO AR TA assay. Regarding changing the AR agonistic/antagonistic effects through metabolism, the AR antagonistic activities of zeranol, phenothiazine, and isoeugenol decreased significantly in the presence of phase I + II enzymes. These data indicate that various veterinary drugs could have the potential to disrupt AR-mediated human endocrine system. Furthermore, this is the first report providing information on AR agonistic/antagonistic effects of veterinary drugs using in vitro OECD AR TA assays.

Development of a Human Estrogen Receptor Dimerization Assay for the Estrogenic Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals Using Bioluminescence Resonance Energy Transfer

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are found in food and various other substances, including pesticides and plastics. EDCs are easily absorbed into the body and have the ability to mimic or block hormone function. The radioligand binding assay based on the estrogen receptors binding affinity is widely used to detect estrogenic EDCs but is limited to radioactive substances and requires specific conditions. As an alternative, we developed a human cell-based dimerization assay for detecting EDC-mediated ER-alpha (ERα) dimerization using bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET). The resultant novel BRET-based on the ERα dimerization assay was used to identify the binding affinity of 17β-estradiol (E2), 17α-estradiol, corticosterone, diethylhexyl phthalate, bisphenol A, and 4-nonylphenol with ERα by measuring the corresponding BRET signals. Consequently, the BRET signals from five chemicals except corticosterone showed a dose-dependent sigmoidal curve for ERα, and these chemicals were suggested as positive chemicals for ERα. In contrast, corticosterone, which induced a BRET signal comparable to that of the vehicle control, was suggested as a negative chemical for ERα. Therefore, these results were consistent with the results of the existing binding assay for ERα and suggested that a novel BRET system can provide information about EDCs-mediated dimerization to ERα.

Organophosphorus pesticides exert estrogen receptor agonistic effect determined using Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development PBTG455, and induce estrogen receptor-dependent adipogenesis of 3T3-L1 adipocytes

Various chemicals containing pesticides can induce adipogenesis and cause obesity. Organophosphorus pesticides have been used for pest control. Here, we investigated the estrogen receptor (ER)-dependent adipogenesis-inducing effect of representative organophosphorus pesticides (OPs), diazinon, phoxim, terbufos and tolclofos-methyl in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Four OPs exhibited ER agonistic effect, determined using the OECD Performance Based Test Guideline No. 455; in vitro ER stably transfected transactivation assay using ERα-HeLa-9903 cell line, through binding affinity to ERα. Additionally, they increased lipid droplet accumulation in a dose-dependent manner, which was suppressed by ICI182,780, a well-known ER antagonist. Four OPs treatment induced peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (C/EBPα), and perilipin expression. Furthermore, PPARγ, C/EBPα and perilipin expression was inhibited by co-treatment with ICI182,780. The increased mRNA expression of lipoprotein lipase and fatty acid synthase by four OPs was suppressed by co-treatment with ICI182,780. These results indicated that diazinon, phoxim, terbufos, and tolclofos-methyl might have adipogenesis-inducing effect mediated by interacting with ER.

Odderon Exchange from Elastic Scattering Differences between pp and pp[over ¯] Data at 1.96 TeV and from pp Forward Scattering Measurements

We describe an analysis comparing the pp[over ¯] elastic cross section as measured by the D0 Collaboration at a center-of-mass energy of 1.96 TeV to that in pp collisions as measured by the TOTEM Collaboration at 2.76, 7, 8, and 13 TeV using a model-independent approach. The TOTEM cross sections, extrapolated to a center-of-mass energy of sqrt[s]=1.96  TeV, are compared with the D0 measurement in the region of the diffractive minimum and the second maximum of the pp cross section. The two data sets disagree at the 3.4σ level and thus provide evidence for the t-channel exchange of a colorless, C-odd gluonic compound, also known as the odderon. We combine these results with a TOTEM analysis of the same C-odd exchange based on the total cross section and the ratio of the real to imaginary parts of the forward elastic strong interaction scattering amplitude in pp scattering for which the significance is between 3.4σ and 4.6σ. The combined significance is larger than 5σ and is interpreted as the first observation of the exchange of a colorless, C-odd gluonic compound.

(-)-Epicatechin-Enriched Extract from Camellia sinensis Improves Regulation of Muscle Mass and Function: Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial

Loss of skeletal muscle mass and function with age represents an important source of frailty and functional decline in the elderly. Antioxidants from botanical extracts have been shown to enhance the development, mass, and strength of skeletal muscle by influencing age-related cellular and molecular processes. Tannase-treated green tea extract contains high levels of the antioxidants (-)-epicatechin (EC) and gallic acid that may have therapeutic benefits for age-related muscle decline. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of tannase-treated green tea extract on various muscle-related parameters, without concomitant exercise, in a single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Administration of tannase-treated green tea extract (600 mg/day) for 12 weeks significantly increased isokinetic flexor muscle and handgrip strength in the treatment group compared with those in the placebo (control) group. In addition, the control group showed a significant decrease in arm muscle mass after 12 weeks, whereas no significant change was observed in the treatment group. Blood serum levels of follistatin, myostatin, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and cortisol were analyzed, and the decrease in myostatin resulting from the administration of tannase-treated green tea extract was found to be related to the change in muscle mass and strength. In summary, oral administration of tannase-treated green tea extract containing antioxidants without concomitant exercise can improve muscle mass and strength and may have therapeutic benefits in age-related muscle function decline.

Probing the Symmetry Energy with the Spectral Pion Ratio

Many neutron star properties, such as the proton fraction, reflect the symmetry energy contributions to the equation of state that dominate when neutron and proton densities differ strongly. To constrain these contributions at suprasaturation densities, we measure the spectra of charged pions produced by colliding rare isotope tin (Sn) beams with isotopically enriched Sn targets. Using ratios of the charged pion spectra measured at high transverse momenta, we deduce the slope of the symmetry energy to be 42<L<117  MeV. This value is slightly lower but consistent with the L values deduced from a recent measurement of the neutron skin thickness of ^{208}Pb.

Cyclic depsipeptide mycotoxin exposure may cause human endocrine disruption: Evidence from OECD in vitro stably transfected transcriptional activation assays

The presence of cyclic depsipeptide mycotoxins in foods and feedstuffs could potentially cause endocrine disrupting effects on humans and wildlife by their inhibition of active steroidogenesis. Therefore, we attempted to assess the human estrogen receptor (ER) and androgen receptor (AR) agonistic/antagonistic effects of representative cyclic depsipeptide mycotoxins, enniatin A1 (ENN A1), and enniatin B1 (ENN B1), by OECD Performand Based Test Guideline (PBTG) No.455, VM7Luc ER transcriptional activation (TA) assay and OECD TG No. 458, 22Rv1/MMTV_GR-KO AR TA assay. No tested cyclic depsipeptide mycotoxins were found to be ER and AR agonists in VM7Luc ER TA and 22Rv1/MMTV_GR-KO AR TA assays. On the other hand, ENN A1, and ENN B1 exhibited the ER and AR antagonistic effects with IC₃₀ and IC₅₀ values in both TA assays. These two cyclic depsipeptide mycotoxins, which were determined as ER and AR antagonists by two in vitro assays, bound to ERα, and AR. Then ENN A1, and ENN B1 inhibited the dimerization of ERα, and AR. These results, for the first time indicated that ENN A1, and ENN B1 could have potential endocrine disrupting effects mediated by interaction of ERα and AR using international standard testing methods to determine the potential endocrine disrupting chemical.

A simple and efficient method of generating HCMV pp65-specific T cells using overlapping peptides

The methods for expansion of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV)-specific T lymphocytes are limited due to the complex culture process, long culture duration, and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) restriction. Here, we report that in vitro stimulation with pp65 kDa phosphoprotein (pp65)-derived overlapping synthetic peptides rapidly generates large numbers of HCMV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) regardless of HLA type. Treatment of PBMCs from healthy volunteers expressing HLA-A*02:01 or HLA-A*24:02 with 138 pp65 overlapping peptides (OLP) resulted in an expansion of HCMV pp65 NLVPMVATV (NLV) pentamer-specific CD8+ T lymphocytes that expressed interferon (IFN)-γ, but the pp65 NLV peptide did not generate HCMV-specific CD8+ T lymphocytes in PBMCs obtained from an HLA-A*24:02 donor due to HLA restriction. The OLP-induced T lymphocytes specific for HCMV derived from PBMCs of HLA-A*02:01- and HLA-A*24:02-expressing donors showed effective cytolytic responses against target cells loaded with OLP or the NLV epitope, but pp65 NLV peptide-induced T lymphocytes did not. Phenotypic analyses demonstrated that OLP increased the frequency of CD3+ CD8+ cells, but not CD3+ CD4+, CD14+, or CD56+ cells, in donor PBMCs. Thus, this study provides evidence that in vitro stimulation with OLP efficiently generates sufficient numbers of HCMV pp65-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes for adoptive cell therapy. Keywords: human cytomegalovirus; cytotoxic T lymphocyte; overlapping peptides; pp65; cytotoxicity.

Paternal Exposure to Bisphenol-A Transgenerationally Impairs Testis Morphology, Germ Cell Associations, and Stemness Properties of Mouse Spermatogonial Stem Cells

Bisphenol-A (BPA) exposure in an adult male can affect the reproductive system, which may also adversely affect the next generation. However, there is a lack of comprehensive data on the BPA-induced disruption of the association and functional characteristics of the testicular germ cells, which the present study sought to investigate. Adult male mice were administered BPA doses by gavage for six consecutive weeks and allowed to breed, producing generations F1-F4. Testis samples from each generation were evaluated for several parameters, including abnormal structure, alterations in germ cell proportions, apoptosis, and loss of functional properties of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). We observed that at the lowest-observed-adverse-effect level (LOAEL) dose, the testicular abnormalities and alterations in seminiferous epithelium staging persisted in F0-F2 generations, although a reduced total spermatogonia count was found only in F0. However, abnormalities in the proportions of germ cells were observed until F2. Exposure of the male mice (F0) to BPA alters the morphology of the testis along with the association of germ cells and stemness properties of SSCs, with the effects persisting up to F2. Therefore, we conclude that BPA induces physiological and functional disruption in male germ cells, which may lead to reproductive health issues in the next generation.

Utilization of Noxious Weed Water Hyacinth Biomass as a Potential Feedstock for Biopolymers Production: A Novel Approach

This study aims to utilize a noxious weed water hyacinth biomass (WH) for polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) production. Alkaline and peracetic acid pretreatment was employed for the hydrolysis of WH and consequently enzymatic saccharification to produce fermentable sugars for PHB production. The pretreatment competence was determined using various operational parameters. By applying ambient conditions, alkaline pretreatment gave higher lignin removal of 65.0%, with 80.8% hydrolysis yield, and on enzyme hydrolysis (40 FPU/g of dry WH), produced total reducing sugar of about 523 mg/g of WH. The resulted WH enzymatic hydolysates were evaluated for the production of PHB by Ralstonia eutropha (ATCC 17699). The WH hydrolysates cultivation was compared to synthetic hydrolysates that contain a similar carbon composition in terms of bacterial growth and PHB synthesis. The effects of various supplements to enhance PHB production were estimated. Supplementation of corn steep liquor (CSL) as a cheap nitrogen source with WH hydrolysates favored a higher amount of PHB synthesis (73%), PHB titer of 7.30 g/L and PHB yield of 0.429 g/g of reducing sugar. Finally, using standard analytical tools, the physical and thermal characteristics of the extracted PHB were evaluated. The findings revealed WH was a promising and technically feasible option for transforming biomass into sustainable biopolymer conversion on a large scale.

Association between body mass index and stroke severity in acute ischaemic stroke with non-valvular atrial fibrillation

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to investigate the association between body mass index (BMI) and both initial stroke severity at presentation and functional outcomes after acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF).

METHODS

Patients were categorized on the basis of their BMI into underweight (BMI <18.5, n = 111), normal (18.5 ≤ BMI <25, n = 1036) and overweight to obese (BMI ≥25, n = 472) groups. Initial stroke severity was assessed using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score and functional outcomes were assessed using the modified Rankin Scale score at discharge. The differences in stroke severity and functional outcomes were compared between groups using robust log-linear regression with a Poisson distribution and binary logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 1619 AIS patients with NVAF from six hospitals were included. Compared with the NIHSS scores [median 5, interquartile range (IQR) 2-14] of normal-weight patients, the NIHSS scores (median 9, IQR 4-19) of underweight patients were more likely to be higher, whereas those of overweight to obese patients were lower (median 4, IQR 1-12) (P < 0.001). In terms of functional outcomes after stroke, underweight patients had a higher risk of poor functional outcomes (odds ratio 1.78, 95% confidence interval 1.09-2.56, P = 0.01) but overweight to obese patients had no significant difference in functional outcomes compared with normal-weight patients.

CONCLUSION

An inverse association was found between BMI and stroke severity in AIS patients with NVAF. This suggests the presence of an obesity paradox for short-term outcomes in patients with NVAF.

Suspected Metallic Embolization Distal to Coiled Intracranial Aneurysms Detectable by Susceptibility-Weighted MR Imaging

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

After endovascular coiling of intracranial aneurysms, round dark parenchymal lesions believed to be particulate metal are sometimes encountered in MR imaging studies of the brain. We used SWI to assess the frequency of such occurrences, in addition to exploring likely causes and clinical implications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed 700 MR imaging studies performed between September 2018 and March 2019 at our institution as follow-up monitoring of coiled intracranial aneurysms. Any sizeable (>5 mm) rounded dark-signal lesions encountered were presumed to be metallic. The magnitudes and locations of such lesions were recorded. In patients with these lesions, pertinent procedural documentation was screened for devices used, including coils, microcatheters, microguidewires, and stents. Medical records were also examined to determine whether any related symptoms ensued.

RESULTS

Twenty patients (2.8%) exhibited a total of 25 lesions on SWI. Diameters ranged from 5 to 11 mm (median, 8 mm). All except 2 lesions were located in brain regions downstream from aneurysms, but all lesions occupied vascular territories of vessels used to place guiding catheters. Other than the Synchro 14, which was routinely deployed, no device was regularly used in patients with SWI-detectable lesions; and none of the affected patients developed focal neurologic symptoms as a consequence.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the origins remain unclear, distal embolization of particulate metal distal to coiled cerebral aneurysms is occasionally observed on follow-up MR imaging studies. Such lesions, however, seem to have no apparent clinical impact.

Development and characterization of a human cell line-based transactivation assay to assess thyroid EDCs

Thyroid hormones (THs) are one of the most important hormones, playing key roles in the regulation of various physiological functions. Although THs have important function in human, in vitro test methods based on human cells are currently insufficient to effectively screen and test TH-related endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). We established a TH agonist TA assay using the adenocarcinomic human alveolar basal epithelial cell line A549 to test and screen potential TH agonists. To establish the TH agonist TA assay, a TRE-secNluc-IRES-EGFP reporter cassette was constructed and transfected into the A549 cell line using a retrovirus. We evaluated the TH agonistic properties of several chemicals which were tested by existing thyroid agonists testing method (OECD GD 207). Comparing the results of the TH agonist TA assay with the OECD GD 207, T3, T4, tiratricol, and tetrac (natural TH and 3,3',5,5'-tetraiodothyroacetic acid derivatives), which are TH agonists according to the OECD GD 207, also tested positive in the TH agonist TA assay using the A549 cell line. These results suggested that the TH agonist TA assay developed in this study using a human cell line can provide the information, such as accuracy and specificity to TH agonistic properties of chemicals.

Effects of tannase-converted green tea extract on skeletal muscle development

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of tannase-converted green tea extract with a high (-)-epicatechin (EC), (-)-epigallocatechin (EGC), and gallic acid (GA) content on myotube density and fusion in normal and oxidative stress-induced C2C12 skeletal muscle cells. Although the use of green tea extract is considered beneficial, cellular and molecular mechanisms of action of tannase-converted green tea extracts that are used as potential muscle growth materials have not been thoroughly studied.

METHODS

This study used histological analysis and molecular biology techniques, and compared the results with those for AMPK activator 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1-β-D-ribonucleoside (AICAR) and green tea extracts.

RESULTS

The myotube density of normal and oxidative stress-induced C2C12 cells was significantly higher in the tannase-converted green tea extract-treated group than that observed in the other groups (normal cells: P < 0.01; oxidative stress-induced cells: P < 0.05). In addition, tannase-converted green tea extract and green tea extract treatments significantly upregulated the genetic expression of myogenin, Myf5, and MyoD (P < 0.05). The levels of AMP-activated protein kinase-α (AMPKα) and muscle RING-finger protein-1 (MuRF-1) in the tannase-converted green tea extract group were higher than those in the AICAR and green tea extract groups (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, our findings describe that the high levels of EC, EGC, and GA in the tannase-converted green tea extract are attributable to the morphological changes in C2C12 cells and intercellular signaling pathways. Therefore, tannase-converted green tea extract can be used in the treatment of sarcopenia.

Lung function as a predictor of incident type 2 diabetes in community-dwelling adults: A longitudinal finding over 12 years from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study

AIM

Reduced lung function is associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D), but there are limited data in East Asian populations on the relationship between them. For this reason, this study investigated the longitudinal relationship of lung function with incident T2D in Korean adults.

METHODS

The study included 7583 non-diabetic adults aged 40-69 years from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study. Participants were divided into four groups according to gender-specific quartiles (Q1-Q4) of %PFVC and %PFEV₁. Also, HRs with 95% CIs for incident T2D were prospectively analyzed as per American Diabetes Association criteria using multivariate Cox proportional-hazards regression models.

RESULTS

During a 12-year follow-up, 1403 (18.5%) participants presented with newly developed T2D. HRs (95% CIs) of incident T2D in Q1 vs. Q4 (reference) of %PFVC were 1.67 (1.35-2.07) for men and 1.77 (1.39-2.24) for women and, of %PFEV₁, 1.58 (1.28-1.95) for men and 1.61 (1.27-2.03) for women, after adjusting for age, waist circumference, smoking status, alcohol intake, regular exercise, education levels, monthly household income, family history of diabetes, HOMA-IR, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels.

CONCLUSION

Reduced lung function precedes and significantly predicts the future development of T2D independently of obesity, smoking and inflammation in community-dwelling middle-aged and elderly people.

The effect of low body mass index on the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and mortality

BACKGROUND

Sarcopenia may worsen disease progression and lead to poor outcomes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to determine the effect of BMI on the development of COPD and mortality.

METHODS

We enrolled 437 584 participants registered in the physical health check-up cohort database of the Korean National Health Interview Survey from 2002 to 2003, and we defined COPD diagnosis based on the ICD-10 code and prescribed medication. BMI (kg m^-2 ) classified them to five groups (low BMI < 18.5, normal BMI 18.5-23, overweight 23-25, obesity 25-30, severe obesity ≥30) at baseline.

RESULTS

Participants in the low BMI group had a significantly higher rate of COPD development for 13 years (7.6%) than those in other groups (3.4-4.1%, P < 0.0001). Amongst never or light smokers, COPD development in the low BMI group (5.6-6.7%) was significantly higher than that in other groups (2.8-4.7%). Similarly, amongst participants with a smoking history of ≥30 years, COPD development in the low BMI group (20.1%) was higher than those in other groups (8.4-12.4%). On multivariable analysis, normal or higher than normal body weight was significantly protective against the development of COPD (hazard ratio [HR], 0.609-0.739,) compared to low BMI. COPD-free-survival (HR, 0.491-0.622) and overall survival (HR, 0.440-0.585) were also better in them compared to those with low BMI (all P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Low BMI is an important risk factor for COPD development and mortality. Maintaining adequate body weight may reduce the risk for COPD development and mortality.

Inhibitory effects of herbal decoction Ojeoksan on proliferation and migration in vascular smooth muscle cells

The proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells plays a crucial role in pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. The principal objective of this study was to determine the effects of Ojeoksan (OJS) on human aortic smooth muscle cell (HASMC) proliferation induced by tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-aα). Thymidine incorporation after TNF-α treatment was increased and this effect was inhibited significantly by OJS treatment. HASMC proliferation and migration by kinetic live cell imaging were also reduced by treatment with OJS. TNF-α induced the expression of cyclins/cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) and reduced the expression of p21^waf1/cip1/p27^kip1. However, OJS also attenuated the expression of TNF-α-induced cell-cycle regulatory proteins. The results of Western blot analysis demonstrated that the TNF-α treated HASMC secreted gelatinases, probably including MMP-2/-9, which may be involved in the invasion and migration of HASMC. Additionally, OJS suppressed the mRNA expression levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2/-9 (MMP-2/-9) in a dose-dependent manner. OJS inhibited the production of TNF-α-induced hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and the formation of DCF-sensitive intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Further, OJS suppressed the nuclear translocation and phosphorylation of inhibitor of kappa B-α (IκB-α) of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) under TNF-α conditions. Our results demonstrate that OJS exerts inhibitory effects on TNF-α-induced HASMC proliferation and migration, suggesting the involvement of the inhibition of both MMP-2 and MMP-9 expressions, and the downregulation of ROS/NF-κB signaling. Thus, herbal decoction OJS may be a possible therapeutic approach to the inhibition of cardiovascular disease including atherosclerosis.

Search for a Dark Matter-Induced Annual Modulation Signal in NaI(Tl) with the COSINE-100 Experiment

We present new constraints on the dark matter-induced annual modulation signal using 1.7 years of COSINE-100 data with a total exposure of 97.7 kg yr. The COSINE-100 experiment, consisting of 106 kg of NaI(Tl) target material, is designed to carry out a model-independent test of DAMA/LIBRA's claim of WIMP discovery by searching for the same annual modulation signal using the same NaI(Tl) target. The crystal data show a 2.7  cpd/kg/keV background rate on average in the 2-6 keV energy region of interest. Using a χ-squared minimization method we observe best fit values for modulation amplitude and phase of 0.0092±0.0067  cpd/kg/keV and 127.2±45.9  d, respectively.

Association of urinary acrylamide concentration with lifestyle and demographic factors in a population of South Korean children and adolescents

Acrylamide (AA) has been identified as probably carcinogenic to humans and thus represents a potential public health threat. This study aimed to determine the urinary concentrations of AA and N-acetyl-S-(2-carbamoylethyl)-L-cysteine (AAMA) in a nationally representative sample (n = 1025) of children and adolescents (age range 3-18 years) in South Korea. The AA and AAMA detection rates and geometric mean concentrations were 97%, 19.1 ng/mL, and 98.7%, 26.4 ng/mL, respectively. Although urinary AA levels did not vary widely by age (17.2 ng/mL at 3-6 years, 19.9 ng/mL at 7-18 years), the urinary concentration of AAMA increased with age (18.3 ng/mL at 3-6 years, 30.4 ng/mL at 7-18 years). A multiple linear regression analysis revealed that the urinary levels of AA and AAMA varied significantly by sex, with the adjusted proportional changes indicating rates of 1.47- to 1.48-fold higher at 3-6 years and 1.36- to 1.68-fold higher at 7-18 years among males relative to females. Furthermore, the urinary levels of AA and AAMA correlated with the consumption of certain foods (doughnuts, hotdogs, popcorn, and nachos) among male subjects aged 7-18 years. The urinary concentrations of AA and AAMA increased significantly with the smoking status and passive smoking exposure, with adjusted proportional changes of 1.51 to 1.71-fold higher among smokers relative to non-smokers in the age range of 7-18 years. Exposure to smoking for > 30 min led to adjusted proportional increases in AA and AAMA of 1.51 and 1.77 times in the non-smoking group aged 3-6 years and a 1.52-fold increase in AAMA in the non-smoking group aged 7-18 years. In conclusion, the urinary levels of AA and AAMA were found to associate with age, sex, smoking, and food consumption in a population of Korean children and adolescents.

Effects of α-lipoic acid on chronic cerebrovascular hypoperfusion in an animal model of vascular dementia

OBJECTIVE

Given the aging population, the treatment of vascular dementia (VaD) is becoming increasingly important. The antioxidant α-lipoic acid (α-LA) protects against neurodegeneration in VaD, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Hence, we aimed to identify the effects of α-LA on cognitive function following chronic cerebrovascular hypoperfusion in a VaD animal model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mice were categorized into the sham, bilateral common carotid artery stenosis (BCAS), or BCAS + α-LA group. The BCAS + α-LA group was intraperitoneally injected (100 mg/kg) once daily with α-LA for 4 weeks after BCAS surgery, while the BCAS and sham groups were injected with saline. After the last injection, we examined cognitive function and exploration behavior using the Morris water maze. Mice brains were then harvested for Western blot analyses.

RESULTS

The BCAS group, but not the BCAS + α-LA group, showed cognitive dysfunction in the Morris water maze. Apoptosis pathways involving poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage, phosphorylated-mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR), phosphorylated-3-phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase-1, and phosphorylated-protein kinase B (p-AKT) were enhanced in the BCAS group than the α-LA group. The BCAS + α-LA group demonstrated less PARP cleavage and p-mTOR function than did the BCAS group. The activity of autophagy pathways involving LC3B was higher in the BCAS and BCAS + α-LA groups than the sham group, but there were no significant differences between the BCAS and BCAS + α-LA groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In the BCAS rodent model, cognitive dysfunction and apoptosis mediated by the phosphatase and tensin homolog/AKT/mTOR pathway were observed in the hippocampus. However, acting on the mTOR pathway, α-LA improved cognitive function and led to hippocampal cell survival. Thus, α-LA may be useful for treating VaD.

First Direct Search for Inelastic Boosted Dark Matter with COSINE-100

A search for inelastic boosted dark matter (IBDM) using the COSINE-100 detector with 59.5 days of data is presented. This relativistic dark matter is theorized to interact with the target material through inelastic scattering with electrons, creating a heavier state that subsequently produces standard model particles, such as an electron-positron pair. In this study, we search for this electron-positron pair in coincidence with the initially scattered electron as a signature for an IBDM interaction. No excess over the predicted background event rate is observed. Therefore, we present limits on IBDM interactions under various hypotheses, one of which allows us to explore an area of the dark photon parameter space that has not yet been covered by other experiments. This is the first experimental search for IBDM using a terrestrial detector.