Effects of sodium selenite and selenium-enriched yeast on cardiometabolic indices of patients with atherosclerosis: A double-blind randomized clinical trial study

Introduction: Atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the major causes of mortality worldwide. The available reports regarding the effects of selenium (Se) supplementation in the realm of atherosclerosis have been equivocal. The present investigation is aimed to assess the effects of sodium selenite and Se-enriched yeast supplementation on metabolic parameters among atherosclerotic patients. Methods: In this double-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial, 60 patients diagnosed with atherosclerosis were randomly allocated into either 200 μg/day selenite, yeast, or placebo groups for eight consecutive weeks. Serum levels of lipid profile and glycemic indices were measured at the baseline and end of the intervention. Results: There were no significant within-or between-group changes in levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), fasting blood sugar, insulin, and homeostatic model assessment for IR throughout the study (P≥0.05). Only the low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) levels were significantly lower in the yeast group in comparison with the placebo group (P= 0.015). Conclusion: The administration of Se-enriched yeast is significantly effective in decreasing LDL-c levels in patients with atherosclerosis. Additional clinical trial studies investigating the effect of Se administration on glucose homeostasis parameters and lipid profiles in atherosclerotic patients are suggested for a more definitive conclusion.

Percutaneous Balloon Mitral Valvuloplasty and Early Right Atrial Clot Formation: A Case Report

Percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty (PBMV) has recently become the treatment of choice for many patients suffering from mitral stenosis. In the current report, we introduce a 26-year-old woman who presented to us with palpitation and exertional dyspnea but without any remarkable medical history. ECG illustrated the sinus rhythm, transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) showed severe rheumatic mitral stenosis and (2+) mitral regurgitation, and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) demonstrated severe mitral stenosis and no thrombus. Accordingly, the patient underwent percutaneous transvenous mitral commissurotomy (PTMC). On the following day, TTE showed a fresh mobile thrombus in the right atrium attached to the atrial septum, which was confirmed by TEE. As a result, the patient received 1 mg/kg (60 mg) of enoxaparin subcutaneously twice daily plus 5 mg of warfarin daily. Subsequent TTE revealed no mass 4 days after the treatment. Evidence suggests that endocardial surface injury and trans-septal puncture during PTMC may be associated with clot formation, which is aggravated by low blood flow in the right atrium and the catheter as a foreign body. This case report emphasizes the importance of post-PTMC anticoagulant therapy.

New solution for old challenge: Device closure of non-centrally positioned atrial septal defect

Multiple interatrial defects, termed fenestrated ASDs that require closure are not uncommon. The problem arises when a centrally located defect or a patent foramen oval (PFO) is associated with another peripherally located defect. In cases like this, all attempts at crossing the true defect might totally fail or might be difficult because the wire or the catheter crosses the central defect repeatedly despite the use of a sizing balloon. In order to overcome such an issue, we introduce a new technique by which not only the procedure and the fluoroscopy time will be reduced, but also it ceases the mistakes about the number of defects, their size and location.

The association between severe mitral stenosis and the size of the aortic root and the ascending thoracic aorta

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to examine the role of isolated rheumatic mitral stenosis (MS) in remodeling of the aorta at various locations.

METHODS

In this prospective study, patients who were to undergo transesophageal echocardiography for various indications were screened. The study participants were classified into 2 groups according to the presence of MS with a valve area ≤1.5 cm2. Factors associated with the index dimensions of the aorta at the levels of the annulus, root, sinotubular junction (STJ), and the proximal ascending portion (5 cm from the annulus) were evaluated. Multivariate linear models were constructed including factors that affect the size of the aorta at any of the aforementioned levels. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to investigate the association between mitral valve area, mitral valve gradient, and dimensions of the aorta.

RESULTS

A total of 179 men and 354 women were enrolled. Eighty-four patients had MS (15.8%). The patients with MS were younger and less likely to have hypertension. In univariate analysis, patients with MS had a smaller annulus and STJ (p=0.003 and p=0.043, respectively). Multivariate analysis indicated that MS was correlated with a smaller indexed size of the aortic annulus, yielding a regression coefficient value of 0.541 (p=0.005).

CONCLUSION

The presence of significant stenosis at the level of the mitral valve is associated with a smaller diameter in the aortic annulus. It is yet to be clarified whether this phenomenon occurs due to chronic, long-standing, low stroke volume or involvement of the aortic annulus in the fibrotic process of mitral disease.

The correlation between Pax5 deletion and patients survival in Iranian children with precursor B-cell acute lymphocytic leukemia

Despite advances in treatment, children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) still experience drug resistance and relapse. Several gene mutations are involved in the onset of this disease and resistance to therapy. The present study examines the incidence of IKZF1, CDKN2A/B, PAX5, EBF1, ETV6, BTG1, RB1, JAK2, and Xp22.33 gene deletions/duplications associated with pediatric ALL in Iran and investigates the possible effect of these mutations on drug resistance. Three-year disease-free survival (3DFS) was evaluated for children diagnosed with Philadelphia negative precursor-B-cell ALL hospitalized at Sayed-al-Shohada Hospital, Isfahan-Iran, from January 2009 until December 2012. DNA was extracted from bone marrow slides, and ALL correlated gene deletions and duplications were measured using Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification (MLPA) method. The correlation between gene mutations and 3DFS was then assessed. Among the nine aforementioned investigated genes, 63% of samples showed at least one gene mutation. At least two concomitant genomic mutations were observed in 42% of samples. Pax5 deletion was the most prevalent gene mutation observed in 45% of cases, and showed significant negative impact on response to treatment. CDKN2A/B (9p21.3) gene deletion, and ETV6 (12p13.2) gene duplication also demonstrated negative effect on patient survival and contributed to a worse prognosis if concomitant with Pax5 gene deletion. ALL patients with one of the gene deletions including Pax5  and CDKN2A/B (9p21.3) or ETV6 (12p13.2) gene duplication are classified as high-risk patients and need more intensified protocols of treatment to improve their chance of survival.

Locked nucleic acid anti-miR-21 inhibits cell growth and invasive behaviors of a colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line: LNA-anti-miR as a novel approach

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death and has an extremely poor prognosis. Dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) has been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis and progression of many malignancies. Recent data suggest that microRNA-21 (miR-21) is significantly elevated in different types of cancer, especially colon adenocarcinoma. Against this background, locked nucleic acid (LNA)-modified oligonucleotides have recently been suggested as a novel approach for targeting miRNAs as antisense-based gene silencing. The aim of the current study was to explore the functional role of LNA-anti-miR-21 in a colon adenocarcinoma LS174T cell line. LS174T cells were transfected with LNA-anti-miR-21 for 24, 48 and 72 h. Quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase-PCR (qRT-PCR) was performed to assess miR-21 expression by LNA-anti-miR-21. The viability of the cells was evaluated by MTT (3-[4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay and Annexin V/propidium iodide staining assay was used to detect apoptosis. Moreover, invasive behavior of the cells was evaluated before and after therapy by transwell assay. LNA-anti-miR-21 was successfully transfected in human LS174T cells and suppressed the endogenous miR-21. LNA-anti-miR-21 inhibited the cells' growth followed by induction of apoptosis. LNA-anti-miR-21 (50 pmol/μl) reduced the invasive behaviors of LS174T cells after 24 h, compared with untreated cells and scrambled LNA-transfected cells. However, this effect was more pronounced after 72 h. Our findings suggest the therapeutic potential of LNA-anti-miR-21 in a colon adenocarcinoma for targeting miR-21 expression. Further studies are warranted to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying this novel inhibitor in colorectal cancer to establish its potential value for treatment of CRC patients with high miR-21 expression.

Locked nucleic acid inhibits miR-92a-3p in human colorectal cancer, induces apoptosis and inhibits cell proliferation

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a type of small noncoding RNAs that have a vital role in basic biological processes such as cellular growth, division and apoptosis. A change in the expression of miRNAs can induce many diseases. Recently, the role of miRNA in some of the cancers as a tumor suppressor and oncogene has been recognized. Several studies have proved that miR-92a-3p acts as an oncogene in colorectal cancer (CRC). We studied CRC by inhibiting miR-92a-3p in SW48 cells (human colorectal cancer cell line) that were transfected with locked nucleic acid (LNA). At different times, the expression level of miR-92a-3p, cell vitality, apoptosis and necrosis were studied by qRT-PCR, MTT, Annexin-V and propidiumiodide. Our results showed that the expression of miR-92a-3p and proliferation of SW48 cells were decreased, and also a high percentage of SW48 cells were exposed to apoptosis and necrosis (P⩽0.005). Our study showed that the inhibition of miR-92a-3p with LNA inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis and necrosis in CRC.

High occurrence of potentially-pathogenic free-living amoebae in tap water and recreational water sources in South-West Iran

The present study was conducted to evaluate the presence of potentially pathogenic free living amoebae in drinking and recreational water sources in south-western Iran. From 75 collected water samples, 40 samples (53.3%) were positive for free living amoebae identified using morphological tools. Interestingly, all recreational waters in Ilam city included in the present study were positive for Acanthamoeba, Vahlkampfidae and Vermamoeba. Thirty percent of tap water samples in Ahvaz city were also positive for potentially pathogenic Free Living Amoebae. Moreover, the three genera identified in the present study have been previously reported as keratitis causative agents in Iran. The present research highlights the need to improve filtration methods for tap waters and to establish awareness in recreational water sources in Iran, in order to prevent Free Living Amoebae related infections. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the isolation of potentially pathogenic free living amoebae including Acanthamoebae, Vermamoebae and Vahlkampfiids in the South-West of Iran.

[The HHEX rs1111875A/G gene polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to type 2 diabetes in the Iranian population]

The illuminating picture of genetic mechanisms underlying the development of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) includes differently accumulated genetic polymorphisms that increase the risk along with environmental factors. A number of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are indicated to be linked with T2DM, but also conflicting results have been found. To examine the contribution of these polymorphisms in conferring susceptibility to T2DM, the association of HHEX rs1111875A/G and CDKN2A/B rs10811661C/T common gene polymorphisms with the risk of T2DM in an Iranian population was evaluated. In this study participated 140 patients and 140 controls. Genomic DNA was extracted from samples and genotyping of the polymorphisms was performed by the Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique. A significant association was found with the G allele (OR = 1.729, CI = 1.184-2.523, P = 0.004) and GG genotype (OR = 2.921, 95% CI = 1.789-4.771, P < 0.001) of the rs1111875A/G SNP for susceptibility to T2DM in the recessive model. Furthermore, compared with the GG genotype, individuals with the GA genotype had a lower risk to develop T2DM (OR = 0.237, 95% CI = 0.137-0.408, P< 0.001) in the additive model. In addition, an association between the polymorphism and BMI in regard to the risk of T2DM was identified. The genotype and allele frequencies of the rs10811661C/T polymorphism did not show a statistically significant association with T2DM in any genetic model. Our results show that the rs1111875A/G polymorphism is an important susceptibility polymorphism for the development of T2DM in the Iranian population. Also, these findings support that this polymorphism is a key genetic risk factor for the development of T2DM in multiple ethnic populations.

Association analysis of -416 G>C polymorphism of T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-1 gene with asthma in Iran

TIM (T-cell immunoglobulin (Ig) and mucin domain)-1, one of the members of TIM family, expresses on Th2 cells and promotes the production of Th2 signature cytokines. This can increase a series of responses in these cells which could be one of the causes of asthma or asthma-related phenotypes. The aim of this study was to investigate whether a TIM-1 promoter single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), -416 G>C, is associated with asthma in Iranian population. In this case-control study, existence of the -416 G>C polymorphism was assessed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) in 300 patients with asthma (97 atopic, 203 nonatopic) and 309 healthy volunteers. Additionally, the relationship between these polymorphism genotypes and total serum IgE levels in this Iranian population was evaluated. We discovered a significant association between the -416 G>C polymorphism and atopic asthma susceptibility in the population, but this SNP showed no connection with nonatopic asthma (P < 0.05). However, our results showed significant relation between this polymorphism and serum IgE level (P < 0.05). Our results suggest that -416 G>C polymorphism in TIM-1 gene could be a predisposing factor for atopic asthma in Iranian population, and CC genotype of this SNP can be associated with increased level of IgE in patients with asthma in the same population.

208 SUPEROVULATORY RESPONSE AND EMBRYO PRODUCTION IN HOLSTEIN COWS FED DIETS ENRICHED IN OLEIC, LINOLEIC, OR α-LINOLENIC ACID

Early embryonic development is enhanced in Holstein cows fed diets enriched in linoleic and α-linolenic acids compared to those fed a diet enriched in stearic fatty acid (Thangavelu et al. 2007; Theriogenology 68, 949–957). A positive effect of oleic acid on oocyte competence in vitro has been reported (Aardema et al. 2011; Biol. Reprod. 85, 62–69), but the influence of oleic acid on early embryonic development has not been investigated. Therefore, our objective was to evaluate the effects of diets enriched in oleic, linoleic, or α-linolenic acid on superovulatory response and embryo production. Non-lactating Holstein cows were blocked by parity and bodyweight, and assigned to one of three diets supplemented with canola (CAN, n = 8; 62% oleic acid), sunflower (SUN, n = 7; 73% linoleic acid), or flax (FLX, n = 8; 57% α-linolenic acid). Cows were individually offered hay (9.4 kg) and concentrate mixture (4.1 kg) supplemented with one of the three rolled oilseeds (~8% of dietary dry matter). After a minimum of 21 days of diet adaptation, cows were given FSH (300 mg total dose, eight 12-hourly injections), artificially inseminated twice, 12 h apart, with semen of the same sire and ova/embryos recovered non-surgically 7.5 days post-insemination. Once started on a diet, cows continued to receive the same diet until the end of the experiment. Thirty-five collections (flushing) were performed (CAN: 12, SUN: 11 and FLX: 12) and data were analysed using the GENMOD procedure of SAS (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA); results are presented as mean ± s.e. Number of corpora lutea (12.8 ± 2.6, 14.5 ± 1.2 and 13.1 ± 1.5), anovulated follicles (3.0 ± 1.4, 2.0 ± 1.1 and 2.6 ± 0.9), and total ova/embryos (7.5 ± 2.0, 8.6 ± 1.7 and 7.3 ± 1.2) did not differ (P > 0.05) for CAN, SUN, and FLX treatment, respectively. Cows fed SUN tended (P = 0.06) to produce more transferable embryos (6.1 ± 1.7) than those fed CAN (4.3 ± 1.5), but did not differ from those fed FLX (4.8 ± 1.3). There were fewer (P < 0.05) unfertilized ova in cows fed SUN (0.6 ± 0.5) than in those fed either CAN (1.3 ± 0.6) or FLX (1.8 ± 0.9). Conversely, cows fed FLX had fewer (P < 0.05) degenerated embryos (0.7 ± 0.4) compared to those fed either CAN (1.9 ± 0.6) or SUN (1.9 ± 0.5). The number of expanded blastocysts was greater (P < 0.05) in cows fed CAN (1.08 ± 0.57) than in those fed FLX (0.25 ± 0.25), but it was not different from those fed SUN (0.90 ± 0.36). In summary, the type of dietary fatty acid did not affect superovulatory response, but a diet enriched in oleic acid resulted in more expanded blastocysts, whereas a diet enriched in linoleic acid significantly reduced the number of unfertilized ova and numerically increased transferable embryos. The diet enriched in α-linolenic acid resulted in fewer degenerated embryos. This study was supported by Alberta Meat and Livestock Agency, Alberta Milk, and Alberta Innovates-BioSolutions.

Synthesis, characterization and pH-controllable methotrexate release from biocompatible polymer/silica nanocomposite for anticancer drug delivery

The objective of this study was to develop pH-responsive silica nanoparticles by imidazole-based ionic liquid for controlled release of methotrexate. In this article, we synthesized pH-responsive cationic silica nanoparticles by graft copolymerization of vinyl functionalized silica nanoparticles and methacrylic acid (MAA) monomer. Imidazole-based ionic liquid (Im-IL) was verified by (1)HNMR and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The synthesized functionalized silica particles were characterized and confirmed by various technologies including the scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the infrared spectroscopy (IR) and the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). SEM results reveal the uniformity in size/shape of silica particles. This nanosystem is modified for targeted delivery of an anticancer agent methotrexate. The nanocomposite-MTX complex was formed at physiological pH (7.4) due to the electrostatic interactions between anionic carboxylic group of MTX molecules and cationic rings in carrier, while, the release of which can be achieved through the cleavage of the nanocomposite-MTX complex by protonation of carboxyl groups in the MTX segment that are sensitive to variations in external pH at weak acidic conditions. FT-IR spectroscopy showed the presence of light interactions between the silicate silanols and the drug. MCF7 cells were incubated with the MTX-free nanocomposite and MTX-loaded nanocomposite at various concentrations for 24, 48 and 72 h, and the data showed that the nanocomposites themselves did not affect the growth of MCF7 cells. Antitumor activity of the MTX-loaded nanocomposites against the cells was kept over the whole experiment process. The results showed that the MTX could be released from the fibers without losing cytotoxicity.

Methylation pattern of SFRP1 promoter in stool sample is a potential marker for early detection of colorectal cancer

Background:

To setup a non-invasive genetic screening method for colorectal cancer, we evaluated the promoter methylation status of secreted frizzled-related protein1 (sfrp1) in stool samples of colorectal cancer with respect to a series of healthy individuals, using methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction.

Materials and Methods:

In stool samples from 25 patients with colorectal cancer and 25 healthy control subjects, isolated DNA was treated with sodium bisulfite and analyzed by methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction with primers specific for methylated or unmethylated promoter sequences of the SFRP1 gene.

Result:

Methylation of the SFRP1 promoter was present in the stool DNA of patients with colorectal cancer. A sensitivity of 52% and specificity of 92% were achieved in the detection of colorectal neoplasia. The difference in methylation status of the SFRP1 promoter between the patients with colorectal neoplasia and the control group was statistically highly significant (P = 0.006).

Conclusions:

The results indicate that this DNA stool test of methylation of the SFRP1 promoter is a sensitive and specific method. It is assumed that the test is potentially useful for the early detection of colorectal cancer.

190 EFFECT OF TRANS-ε-VINIFERIN ON IN VITRO PORCINE OOCYTE MATURATION AND SUBSEQUENT DEVELOPMENTAL COMPETENCE IN PRE-IMPLANTATION EMBRYOS

Trans-ε-viniferin is a naturally occurring polyphenol belonging to the stilbenoids family. Trans-ε-viniferin is isolated from Vitis amurensis, 1 of the most common wild grapes in Korea, Japan and China. We investigated the effects of trans-ε-viniferin on in vitro maturation (IVM) and developmental competence after IVF or parthenogenesis (PA). At the laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, trans-ε-viniferin was purified from the leaves and stems of Vitis amurensis. Data were analyzed with SPSS 17.0 using Duncan's multiple range test. First, in total, 594 cumulus–oocyte complexes (COC) were used for the evaluation of nuclear maturation. The COC were matured in TCM-199 medium supplemented with various concentrations of trans-ε-viniferin (0, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0 and 5.0 μM) with 10% porcine follicular fluid, 10 IU mL–1 of eCG and 10 IU mL–1 of hCG. After 22 h in maturation culture, the COC were cultured in hormone-free medium supplemented with various concentrations of trans-ε-viniferin for an additional 22 h and then nuclear maturation was evaluated. Second, in total, 300 matured oocytes were used to examine the effects of different trans-ε-viniferin concentrations (0, 0.5 and 5.0 μM) on porcine oocyte intracellular glutathione (GSH) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Lastly, the developmental competence of oocytes matured with different concentrations of trans-ε-viniferin (0, 0.5 and 5.0 μM) was evaluated after IVF or PA. In total, 711 embryos were evaluated. As results, we observed that trans-ε-viniferin treatment during IVM did not improve the nuclear maturation of oocytes in any group (84.2, 86.6, 85.5, 83.3 and 79.2%, respectively), but significantly increased (P < 0.05) intracellular GSH levels in the 0.5 μM group (0 μM vs 0.5 μM; 14.6 vs 16.8 pmol oocyte–1) and reduced ROS levels (0 μM vs 0.5 μM and 50 μM; 174.6 vs 25.7 and 23.8 pixel oocyte–1). Oocytes treated with trans-ε-viniferin during IVM did not have significantly different cleavage rates or blastocyst formation rates after IVF, but total cell numbers were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the 0.5 and 5.0 μM treatment groups (53.6 ± 4.0 and 47.9 ± 3.1) compared to the control group (36.4 ± 2.2). The PA embryos showed similar results; there were no significant differences in cleavage rates and blastocyst formation rates, but the total cell number significantly increased in the 0.5 and 5.0 μM treatment groups (59.6 ± 4.2 and 60.8 ± 4.6) compared to the control group (43.1 ± 2.1). In conclusion, these results indicate that trans-ε-viniferin treatment during porcine IVM increased total cell number of blastocysts, possibly through increasing intracellular GSH synthesis and reducing ROS levels. This work was supported by a grant from the Korea institute of Planning & Evaluation for Technology in Food, Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries, Republic of Korea.

26 PRODUCTION OF CLONED KOREAN RACCOON (NYCTEREUTES PROCYONOIDES KOREENSIS) EMBRYOS BY INTERSPECIES SOMATIC CELL NUCLEAR TRANSFER USING ENUCLEATED PIG OOCYTES

Interspecies somatic cell nuclear transfer (iSCNT) could be a useful method for embryo research of wildlife animals or endangered species. Because it is hard to obtain the oocytes or embryos of wildlife animals, its embryo research is not progressing well. Therefore, iSCNT is one of the alternative ways for wildlife animal embryo research and conservation of their genetic source. Until now, iSCNT has been applied to conservation of wildlife animals including guar, mouflon, banteng and African wildcat. The domestic pig oocytes have been used for iSCNT of other species such as tiger, sheep and dog and they successfully developed to the blastocyst stage. According to this concept, we performed wild-captured Korean raccoon (Nyctereutes procyonoides koreensis) iSCNT using porcine oocytes matured in vitro. Raccoon fibroblasts from ear skin samples of male raccoon were used as donor cells in 3 to 5 passages. The donor cells were cultured in DMEM supplemented with 15% FBS. Enucleated porcine oocytes were fused with raccoon fibroblasts by electrofusion. The iSCNT embryos were cultured in PZM-3 at 39°C for 7 days in an atmosphere of 5% CO2 and 5% O2. A total of 158 iSCNT embryos were cultured. More than 77% of the raccoon somatic cells successfully fused with the porcine oocytes; 68.5% of the iSCNT raccoon embryos developed to the 2- to 8-cell stage at Day 2 (1-cell: 9.7%, 2-cell: 14.4%, 4-cell: 34.1%, 6-cell: 12.7%, 8-cell: 7.3%, fragmented: 21.8%). This is similar to porcine SCNT results that 62.5% of the SCNT porcine embryos developed (1-cell: 8.0%, 2-cell: 4.2%, 4-cell: 23.6%, 6-cell: 13.6%, 8-cell: 23.8%, fragmented: 26.8%). But no embryos were further developed to blastocyst stage at Day 7 in iSCNT. In fragmentation evaluation in iSCNT embryos using by Hoechst stain at Day 2, two-cell stage embryos and four-cell stage embryos showed the normal numbers of nucleus. However, 6-cell stage embryos showed 4 to 5 nuclei and 8-cell stage embryos also showed 5 to 6 nuclei. Almost iSCNT embryos showed the developmental block at 4-cell stage embryos. This result was probably caused by an incomplete reprogrammed raccoon cell after iSCNT. Therefore, we treated with trichostatin A (TSA), a histone deacetylase inhibitor that has been used to enhance nuclear reprogramming following SCNT. Ninety-seven iSCNT raccoon-pig embryos were treated with 5 nM TSA during 15 h before being cultured in PZM-3. The TSA-treated iSCNT embryos showed similar developmental status to non-treated embryos (1-cell: 13.5%, 2-cell: 12.5%, 4-cell: 35.0%, 6-cell: 10.1%, 8-cell: 6.3%, fragmented: 22.5%). No embryos were further developed to blastocyst stage at day 7. Our results showed that 4-cell stage embryos of raccoon-porcine iSCNT embryos may be produced by iSCNT methods, but they were unable to support complete reprogramming of raccoon-porcine iSCNT embryos. This work was supported by a grant from the Next-Generation BioGreen 21 Program (No. 007133022011), Rural Development Administration, Republic of Korea.

Effect of rs6983267 polymorphism in the 8q24 region and rs4444903 polymorphism in EGF gene on the risk of sporadic colorectal cancer in Iranian population

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the major causes of cancer-related morbidity, mortality, and human health problem worldwide. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in different genes are reported to be effective in increased risk of CRC in different ethnic population. We conducted a case-control study in patients diagnosed with sporadic colorectal cancer (n = 115) and healthy controls based on colonoscopy evidences (n = 120).In this replicative study, we aimed to investigate the association of two previously reported polymorphisms, rs6983267 and rs4444903, with sporadic colorectal cancer in a subset of Iranian patients. Genotyping was performed via polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) assay. A significant relation was found between rs6983267 variant in the 8q24 region and colorectal cancer. The distribution of G/G genotypes among sporadic CRC patients was more frequent than that in the control group (P value = 0.001). The frequency of the G allele in the colorectal cancer patient group was also higher than that in the control group (65% vs. 48%; P value = 0.001). Compared with GG genotype, individuals with G/T and T/T genotypes had lower risk to develop sporadic CRC (OR = 0.357, 95% CI = 0.201-0.635). For the rs4444903 SNP, no significant association (P value = 0.149) was found with colorectal cancer risk. In conclusion, our findings suggest that the 8q24 rs6983267 SNP may play a pivotal role in the development of sporadic CRC in Iranian population. Therefore, it may be included as a potential genetic susceptibility marker for sporadic CRC.

The anti-biofouling effect of Lactobacillus fermentum-derived biosurfactant against Streptococcus mutans

Biofouling in the oral cavity often causes serious problems. The ability of Streptococcus mutans to synthesize extracellular glucans from sucrose using glucosyltransferases (gtfs) is vital for the initiation and progression of dental caries. Recently, it was demonstrated that some biological compounds, such as secondary metabolites of probiotic bacteria, have an anti-biofouling effect. In this study, S. mutans was investigated for the anti-biofouling effect of Lactobacillus fermentum (L.f.)-derived biosurfactant. It was hypothesized that two enzymes produced by S. mutans, glucosyltransferases B and C, would be inhibited by the L.f.-biosurfactant. When these two enzymes were inhibited, fewer biofilms (or none) were formed. RNA was extracted from a 48-h biofilm of S. mutans formed in the presence or absence of L.f. biosurfactant, and the gene expression level of gtfB/C was quantified using the real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). L.f. biosurfactant showed substantial anti-biofouling activity because it reduced the process of attachment and biofilm production and also showed a reduction in gtfB/C gene expression (P value < 0.05).

Cloning, expression and dynamic simulation of TRYP6 from Leishmania major (MRHO/IR/75/ER)

Leishmania, a digenetic protozoan parasite causes severe diseases in human and animals. Efficient evasion of toxic microbicidal molecules, such as reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species is crucial for Leishmania to survive and replicate in the host cells. Tryparedoxin peroxidase, a member of peroxiredoxins family, is vital for parasite survival in the presence of antioxidant, hence it is one of the most important molecules in Leishmania viability and then, it may be an appropriate goal for challenging against leishmaniasis. After cloning and sub-cloning of TRYP6 from Leishmania major (MRHO/IR/75/ER), homology modeling of the LmTRYP6 was proposed to predict some functional property of this protein. The refined model showed that the core structure consists of a seven β stranded β-sheet and five α helices which are organized as a central 7-stranded β2-β1-β5-β4-β3-β6-β7 surrounded by 2-stranded β-hairpin, α helices A and D on one side, and α helices B, C and E on the other side. The peroxidatic active site is located in a pocket formed by the residue Pro45, Met46, Thr49, Val51, Cys52, Arg128, Met147 and Pro 148. The catalytic Cys52, located in the first turn of helix αB, is in van der Waals with a Pro45, a Thr49 and an Arg128 that are absolutely conserved in all known Prx sequences. In this study, an attractive molecular target was studied. These results might be used in designing of drugs to fight an important human pathogen.

516. THE EFFECTS OF eCG INJECTION ON SUPEROVULATORY RESPONSES BEFORE VERSUS AFTER CIDR REMOVAL IN IRANIAN SHALL EWES

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of eCG injection on ovarian responses 2 days before or immediately after CIDR removal in a superovulation program during non-breeding season in Iranian Shall ewes. 12 ewes were kept inside for the duration of the experiment and were fed a live weight maintenance ration. The ewes were synchronized by CIDR. The day of CIDR insertion was considered as the starting point of the experiment (day 0). The ewes received 1500 IU eCG on day 12. Ewes were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups, and CIDR removed on days 12 and 14 in groups 1 and 2, respectively. Ovarian follicular activity was monitored by transrectal ultrasonography daily from the initiation day of superovulatory stimulation (day 12) until the day of estrus (day 14), and once 7 days after estrus (day 21) to monitor the number of corpus lutium. During examination the animals were held in a standing position. Ultrasonographic scanning of both ovaries was recorded using a MP4 player. The number of medium and large follicles (≥3 mm) were recognized, measured and mapped to their location using printed images of both ovaries. Data were analyzed using GLM procedure of the SAS. The results presented in Table 1 showed that the ovarian responses in terms of the number of ≥3 mm follicles at estrus and CL 7 days later were greater (P<0.05) in group 1 ewes. The results indicated that the superior time for eCG injection is on the day of CIDR removal.

116. EFFECTS OF SUPPLEMENTAL VITAMIN ON THE SEMEN CHARACTERISTICS OF MARKHOZ GOATS DURING NON-BREEDING SEASON

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation of vitamin E on the semen characteristics of the Markhoz goats. Eighth bucks were randomly allocated into two groups, and received two different diets: unsupplemented diet (control) and supplemented diet with vitamin E (0.30 g/Kg DM). All experimental diets were formulated according to AFRC 1998. Semen was collected at 14-days intervals from June 17, 2006 to September 2, 2006 (non-breeding season) using artificial vagina. Semen characteristics were evaluated including semen volume, sperm concentration, live sperm percentage, percentage of motility and progressive motility. This characteristics were evaluated at two weeks intervals the trial. The total number of spermatozoa per ejaculation was calculated by multiplication of the semen volume with sperm concentration. Sperm motility was also analyzed by placing a sample on pre-warmed (37 º C) microscope slide covered with a cover slip, and examined under a high power microscope at a magnification × 200. Data was analyzed using proc MIXED in SAS program. Significant effect (P≤0.05) of the week (sampling time) was observed for all the parameters except for semen volume. Vitamin E supplementation significantly improved (P≤0.05) total number (Control: 263.7 ×107±17.506 vs. Vit E: 320.95 ×107±17.506) and sperm concentration (Control: 301.79 ×107±13.657 vs. Vit E: 386.57 ×107± 13.657), motility (Control: 77.27% ±0.89 vs. Vit E: 82.6% ±0.89) and progressive motility (Control: 4.208 ±0.138 vs. Vit E: 4.229 ±0.138), percentage of viability (Control: 80.57% ±0.89 vs. Vit E: 85.9% ±0.89). The results suggested that the supplemental Vitamin E may improve the semen quality and fertility in the Markhoz goats.

519. INFLUENCE OF THE DURATION OF CIDR INSERTION ON OVARIAN RESPONSES IN AN eCG PROGRAM DURING NON-BREEDING SEASON IN EWES

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of 14 versus 7 days CIDR insertion before eCG treatment on superovulatory responses during non-breeding season in ewes. 10 Iranian Shall ewes, between 2 and 3 years old were kept inside during the experiment period and were fed a live weight maintenance ration. Ewes were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups. CIDR was inserted to the ewes of group 1 for 14 days and for 7 days to group 2. Each ewe received 1500 IU eCG on the day of CIDR removal. Ovarian follicular activity was monitored by transrectal ultrasonography on the days of eCG treatment, estrus, and 7 days after estrus to monitor the number of corpus lutium. During examination the animals were held in a standing position. Scanning of both ovaries was recorded using a MP4 player. The number of medium and large follicles (≥3 mm in diameter) were recognized, measured and mapped to their location using printed images of both ovaries. Data were analyzed using GLM procedure of the SAS. The results presented in Table 1 shows that the ovarian responses in terms of the number of ≥3 mm follicles at estrus is greater (P<0.05) in group 1 than group 2 ewes. The mean number of CL after eCG injection in group 1 and 2 were also significantly different (3.6±0.24 vs 2.4±0.51; P<0.05). The results showed that the 14 days synchronization before eCG treatment during non-breading seasons in ewes had the beneficial effects on ovarian responses.

In vivotransfection rat small intestine K-cell with pGIP/Ins plasmid by DOTAP liposome

Gene therapies to produce insulin in diabetic patients have been considered for several years. Genetic engineering of ectopic insulin production and secretion in autologous non-beta-cells has been tested in different tissues. Recently, gut K-cells have been shown to express glucokinase, the glucose sensor of pancreatic beta-cells. K-cells are responsible for the secretion of the glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP). Transfection of K-cells by a specific plasmid to produce insulin correlated to glucose level is being considered. Cationic liposomes are non-viral gene delivery to lung, spleen, liver and intestinal cells. DOTAP-GIP/Ins plasmid complex was used for transfection of K-cells in vivo. RT-PCR assay of human insulin mRNA revealed that the transfection of insulin gene by DOTAP liposome is an efficient tool. The genetic engineering of ectopic insulin production and secretion in autologous non-beta-cells is an appropriate method. The potential of the transmission of a constructed plasmid, which contains human insulin gene under the control of GIP promoter, to gut K-cells could be considered for treatment of diabetes.

[The identification of Cryptosporidium species (protozoa) in Ifsahan, Iran by PCR-RFLP analysis of the 18S rRNA gene]

Cryptosporidium is an important protozoan that cause diarrheal illness in humans and animals. Different species of Cryptosporidium have been reported and it is believed that species characteristics are an important factor to be considered in strategic planning for control. We therefore analyzed oocysts from human and animal isolates of Cryptosporidium by PCR-RFLP to determine strain variation in Isfahan. In total, 642 human fecal samples from children under five years of age, immunocompromised patients, and high risk persons and 480 randomly selected rectal specimens of cows and calves in Isfahan were examined. Microscopic examination showed that 4.7% (30/642) of human samples and 6.2% (30/480) of animal samples were infected with Cryptosporidium. After identification of the samples infected with the parasite, oocysts were purified and their DNA was extracted. We used PCR-RFLP analysis of a 1750-bp region of 18S rRNA gene to identify Cryptosporidium species. The human samples were infected with Cryptosporidium parvum II, C. muris, C. wrairi, and a new genotype of Cryptosporidium (GenBank accession numbers: DQ520951). The cattle samples were identified as C. parvum II, C. muris, C. wrairi, C. serpentis, C. baileyi, and a new genotype of Cryptosporidium (GenBank accession numbers: DQ520952). Also we found a new genotype infecting both human and cattle samples (GenBank accession numbers: DQ520950). In addition to demonstrating the widespread occurrence of most species of Cryptosporidium, C. parvum, we also observed extensive polymorphism within species. Furthermore, the occurrence of the same species of parasite in both animal and human samples shows the importance of the animal-human cycle.

Usefulness of transoesophageal echocardiography before cardioversion in patients with atrial fibrillation and different anticoagulant regimens

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the prevalence of atrial thrombi in patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing different anticoagulation regimens before cardioversion; to evaluate the usefulness of transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) guided cardioversion to prevent thromboembolic complications; and to correlate the presence of atrial thrombi with clinical and echocardiographic data.

METHODS

757 consecutive patients admitted as candidates for cardioversion of atrial fibrillation were enrolled in the study. They were divided into four groups: effective conventional oral anticoagulation, short term anticoagulation, ineffective oral anticoagulation or subtherapeutic anticoagulation, and effective oral anticoagulation with a duration of < 3 weeks for various clinical reasons. All patients underwent TOE before cardioversion; in the presence of atrial thrombi or extreme left atrial echo contrast, cardioversion was postponed. The incidence of thromboembolic events was evaluated after cardioversion.

RESULTS

Atrial thrombi were detected in 48 of the 757 (6.3%) patients. No significant differences in the percentage of atrial thrombosis were found in the four study groups. Patients with atrial thrombosis were older and had a higher percentage of mitral prosthetic valves, lower left ventricular ejection fraction, more severe atrial spontaneous echo contrast, and lower Doppler left atrial appendage velocities. 648 patients were scheduled for cardioversion. Cardioversion was successful in 89% of patients without any major thromboembolic event.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of atrial thrombosis before cardioversion despite different treatments with anticoagulants is about 7% and a TOE guided approach may prevent the risk of embolic events.

Haemopoietic organs and effect of their ablation on total haemocyte count in lemon-butterfly, Papilio demoleus L

The haemopoietic organs in Vth instar larvae of P. demoleus are in the form of thin transparent cellular sheets, closely wrapped around the base of each wing-pad. Three cell types viz; prohaemocytes, plasmatocytes and oenocytoids appear to be derived from these organs and their ablation caused a reduction in cell number which, in turn, revealed that the haemocytes in general are derived both from the haemopoietic organs as well as from the circulating blood cells.