Early adolescents’ sexual and reproductive health literacy in Lao PDR

Background

Sexual and reproductive health literacy (SRHL) refers to the ability to access, understand, appraise, and apply information for decision-making related to sexual and reproductive health. The low level of SRHL in adolescents increases their sexually risky behaviors and endangers sexual health. Although early adolescence is a critical development period for forming initial views on sexuality and is often a time for attempting risky behaviors, studies on SRHL for early adolescents are fairly limited in Las PDR. As an initial step for the development of a global health project between Lao PDR and South Korea, this study assessed the level of SRHL and the differences in gender among early adolescents in Lao PDR.

Methods

Participants were 235 students conveniently recruited from one junior high school each in two provinces in Lao PDR. SRHL was measured using the 39-item Teen Pregnancy Health Literacy scale consisting of 4 subscales of finding, understanding, appraisal, and application. The scores were classified into inadequate, problematic, sufficient, and excellent using the SRHL index formula. The mean differences in gender were compared using t-test.

Results

The mean of the SRHL scores of the participants was 19.07 (±10.57). The mean score was significantly lower for girls, at 17.67 (±11.22) than for boys, at 21.37 (±9.05) (p = .006). Significant differences were further identified in all four sub-domains of SRHL: finding (p = .025), understanding (p = .005), appraisal (p = .041), and application (p = .029). The majority of participants (91.7%) were categorized as having an ‘inadequate’ or ‘problematic’ level of SRHL.

Conclusions

The level of SRHL among most early adolescents was found to be inadequate. The level of SRHL among girls was much lower than that among boys. The findings suggest a gender-specific approach to developing health education programs to improve SRHL among early adolescents and prevent future sexually risky behaviors in Lao PDR.

Key messages

Highly efficient solid-state Raman yellow-orange lasers created by enhancing the cavity reflectivity

A new, to the best of our knowledge, output coupler (OC) with enhancement of the cavity reflectivity is proposed to remarkably elevate the output powers and efficiencies of diode-pumped Nd:GdVO₄/KGW Raman yellow-orange lasers. The cavity reflectivity is effectively increased by using the double-sided dichroic coating on the OC. In comparison with the conventional single-sided coating, the conversion efficiency can be boosted from 15% to 26.3% in the experiment of a yellow laser at 578.8 nm, and the maximum output power can be increased from 5.7 to 10.5 W in the quasi-continuous-wave mode with 50% duty cycle and frequency of 500 Hz. Furthermore, in the operation of an orange laser at 588 nm, the maximum output power can be improved from 5.6 to 7.0 W by replacing the conventional OC with the new one.

Multi-omics Analyses Reveal Synergistic Carbohydrate Metabolism in Streptococcus mutans-Candida albicans Mixed-Species Biofilms

Candida albicans, a major opportunistic fungal pathogen, is frequently found together with Streptococcus mutans in dental biofilms associated with severe childhood caries (tooth decay), a prevalent pediatric oral disease. However, the impact of this cross-kingdom relationship on C. albicans remains largely uncharacterized. Here, we employed a novel quantitative proteomics approach in conjunction with transcriptomic profiling to unravel molecular pathways of C. albicans when cocultured with S. mutans in mixed biofilms. RNA sequencing and iTRAQ (isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation)-based quantitative proteomics revealed that C. albicans genes and proteins associated with carbohydrate metabolism were significantly enhanced, including sugar transport, aerobic respiration, pyruvate breakdown, and the glyoxylate cycle. Other C. albicans genes and proteins directly and indirectly related to cell morphogenesis and cell wall components such as mannan and glucan were also upregulated, indicating enhanced fungal activity in mixed-species biofilm. Further analyses revealed that S. mutans-derived exoenzyme glucosyltransferase B (GtfB), which binds to the fungal cell surface to promote coadhesion, can break down sucrose into glucose and fructose that can be readily metabolized by C. albicans, enhancing growth and acid production. Altogether, we identified key pathways used by C. albicans in the mixed biofilm, indicating an active fungal role in the sugar metabolism and environmental acidification (key virulence traits associated with caries onset) when interacting with S. mutans, and a new cross-feeding mechanism mediated by GtfB that enhances C. albicans carbohydrate utilization. In addition, we demonstrate that comprehensive transcriptomics and quantitative proteomics can be powerful tools to study microbial contributions which remain underexplored in cross-kingdom biofilms.

Depth extraction with offset pixels

Numerous depth extraction techniques have been proposed in the past. However, the utility of these techniques is limited as they typically require multiple imaging units, bulky platforms for computation, cannot achieve high speed and are computationally expensive. To counter the above challenges, a sensor with Offset Pixel Apertures (OPA) has been recently proposed. However, a working system for depth extraction with the OPA sensor has not been discussed. In this paper, we propose the first such system for depth extraction using the OPA sensor. We also propose a dedicated hardware implementation for the proposed system, named as the Depth Map Processor (DMP). The DMP can provide depth at 30 frames per second at 1920 × 1080 resolution with 31 disparity levels. Furthermore, the proposed DMP has low power consumption as for the aforementioned speed and resolution it only requires 290.76 mW. The proposed system makes it an ideal choice for depth extraction systems in constrained environments.

Can persistent organic pollutants distinguish between two opposite metabolic phenotypes in lean Koreans?

AIMS

This study investigated the association of persistent organic pollutants (POPs), an emerging new risk factor for type 2 diabetes and the metabolic syndrome, with the presence of opposite phenotypes of glucose and lipid metabolism among normal-weight Koreans of similar body composition.

METHODS

Fifty subjects, randomly selected from an ongoing community-based cohort study, from two opposite phenotype groups - metabolically unhealthy normal weight (MUHNW) and metabolically healthy normal weight (MHNW) - were matched for waist circumference, visceral fat mass and demographic variables, then compared for serum concentrations of POPs.

RESULTS

Most POPs (10 out of 13 compounds) were present in higher serum concentrations in the MUHNW than in the MHNW. In particular, serum concentrations of all compounds of the organochlorine pesticide class were 2.2 to 4.7 times higher in cases than in controls. Compared with the lowest tertile of summary measures of POPs, Odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for the second and third tertiles were 7.4 (1.9-29.4) and 10.4 (2.6-41.2), respectively. Adjusting for possible confounders did not change the results.

CONCLUSION

Taken altogether, these findings from the present and previous studies suggest that increased serum POP concentrations may play an important role in the development of unhealthy metabolic phenotypes in lean people.

Two different phase-change origins with chemical- and structural-phase-changes in C doped (1.5 wt.%) In3Sb1Te2

We fabricated C-doped (1.5 wt.%) In₃Sb₁Te₂ (CIST) thin films with amorphous phase (a-CIST) using a sputter method. Two electrical-phase-changes at 250 and 275 °C were observed in the sheet resistance measurement. In order to understand the origin of these electrical-phase-changes, all samples were characterized by XRD, TEM, and HRXPS with synchrotron radiation. In a-CIST, only weak Sb-C bonding was observed. In the first electrical-phase-change at 250 °C, strong Sb-C bonding occurred without an accompanying structural/phase change (still amorphous). On the other hand, the second electrical-phase-change at 275 °C was due to the structural/phase change from amorphous to crystalline without a chemical state change.

PIN1 Suppresses the Hepatic Differentiation of Pulp Stem Cells via Wnt3a

This study aimed to investigate the role of PIN1 on the hepatic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) and its signaling pathway, as well as the potential therapeutic effects of hDPSC transplantation and PIN1 inhibition on CCl₄ (carbon tetrachloride)-induced liver fibrosis in mice. The in vitro results showed that hepatic differentiation was suppressed by infection with adenovirus-PIN1 and promoted by PIN1 inhibitor juglone via the downregulation of Wnt3a and β-catenin. Compared with treatment with either hDPSC transplantation or juglone alone, the combination of hDPSCs and juglone into CCl₄-injured mice significantly suppressed liver fibrosis and restored serum levels of alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, and ammonia. Collectively, the present study shows for the first time that PIN1 inhibition promotes hepatic differentiation of hDPSCs through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Furthermore, juglone in combination with hDPSC transplantation effectively treats liver fibrosis, suggesting that hDPSC transplantation with PIN1 inhibition may be a novel therapeutic candidate for the treatment of liver injury.

Disease-drug database for pharmacogenomic-based prescribing

Providers have expressed a strong desire to have additional clinical decision-support tools to help with interpretation of pharmacogenomic results. We developed and tested a novel disease-drug association tool that enables pharmacogenomic-based prescribing to treat common diseases. First, 324 drugs were mapped to 484 distinct diseases (mean number of drugs treating each disease was 4.9; range 1-37). Then the disease-drug association tool was pharmacogenomically annotated, with an average of 1.8 pharmacogenomically annotated drugs associated/disease. Applying this tool to a prospectively enrolled >1,000 patient cohort from a tertiary medical center showed that 90% of the top ∼20 diseases in this population and ≥93% of patients could appropriately be treated with ≥1 medication with actionable pharmacogenomic information. When combined with clinical patient genotypes, this tool permits delivery of patient-specific pharmacogenomically informed disease treatment recommendations to inform the treatment of many medical conditions of the US population, a key initial step towards implementation of precision medicine.

Risk factors for recurrence in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma undergoing modified radical neck dissection

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated the impact of lymph node-related factors on the risk of and site of recurrence in patients who had papillary thyroid carcinoma with lymph node metastasis in the lateral compartment (classified as pN1b).

METHODS

Patients underwent total thyroidectomy with unilateral modified radical neck dissection for classical papillary thyroid carcinoma. Risk factors for recurrence were evaluated according to the pattern of recurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 324 patients were included in the study. The median follow-up was 63 (range 14-181) months. Recurrence was detected in 47 patients (14·5 per cent). In the multivariable analysis, a maximum diameter of metastatic lymph nodes larger than 2·0 cm (hazard ratio (HR) 1·15, 95 per cent c.i. 1·06 to 1·25; P = 0·033) and a central compartment metastatic lymph node ratio of more than 0·42 (HR 3·35, 1·65 to 6·79; P < 0·001) were identified as independent risk factors for locoregional recurrence. Age 45 years or older (HR 5·69, 1·24 to 26·12; P = 0·025) and extranodal extension of metastasis (HR 12·71, 1·64 to 98·25; P = 0·015) were risk factors for distant metastasis. In subgroup analysis of locoregional recurrence, several lymph node-related factors affected the risk of recurrence according to the specific site of metastasis.

CONCLUSION

Lymph node-related factors are of importance for the risk of recurrence in patients with classical papillary thyroid carcinoma classified as pN1b.

Molecular identification of the traditional herbal medicines, Arisaematis Rhizoma and Pinelliae Tuber, and common adulterants via universal DNA barcode sequences

Methods to identify Pinelliae Tuber and Arisaematis Rhizoma are required because of frequent reciprocal substitution between these two herbal medicines and the existence of several closely related plant materials. As a result of the morphological similarity of dried tubers, correct discrimination of authentic herbal medicines is difficult by conventional methods. Therefore, we analyzed DNA barcode sequences to identify each herbal medicine and the common adulterants at a species level. To verify the identity of these herbal medicines, we collected five authentic species (Pinellia ternata for Pinelliae Tuber, and Arisaema amurense, A. amurense var. serratum, A. erubescens, and A. heterophyllum for Arisaematis Rhizoma) and six common adulterant plant species. Maturase K (matK) and ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase large subunit (rbcL) genes were then amplified using universal primers. In comparative analyses of two DNA barcode sequences, we obtained 45 species-specific nucleotides sufficient to identify each species (except A. erubescens with matK) and 28 marker nucleotides for each species (except P. pedatisecta with rbcL). Sequence differences at corresponding positions of the two combined DNA barcodes provided genetic marker nucleotides that could be used to identify specimens of the correct species among the analyzed medicinal plants. Furthermore, we generated a phylogenetic tree showing nine distinct groups depending on the species. These results can be used to authenticate Pinelliae Tuber and Arisaematis Rhizoma from their adulterants and to identify each species. Thus, comparative analyses of plant DNA barcode sequences identified useful genetic markers for the authentication of Pinelliae Tuber and Arisaematis Rhizoma from several adulterant herbal materials.

Changes in heart-rate variability of survivors of nasopharyngeal cancer during Tai Chi Qigong practice

[Purpose] To explore the changes in heart-rate variability (HRV) of survivors of nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) before, during, and after a Tai Chi (TC) Qigong exercise. [Subjects and Methods] Eleven survivors of NPC participated voluntarily in the study. The heart rate of each participant was measured continuously for 1 minute before the TC Qigong intervention, during the 5-minute TC Qigong intervention, and for 1 minute after the intervention, using a Polar heart-rate monitor. Spectral HRV was expressed in terms of normalised low frequency (LF) power, normalised high frequency (HF) power, and the low frequency/high frequency (LF/HF) power ratio. [Results] Both the LF-power and the HF-power components had significant time effects. However, the time effect of the LF/HF power ratio was not significant. Post hoc contrast analysis revealed a significant decrease in LF power and a concomitant increase in HF power during the 4th minute and 5th minute of the TC Qigong exercise. [Conclusion] Five minutes of TC Qigong exercise was found to improve HRV by increasing HF power and decreasing LF power, but these effects were transient. TC Qigong might be an appropriate exercise for improving the ANS function and psychological and cardiac health of survivors of NPC.

Rhodococcus aerolatus sp. nov., isolated from subarctic rainwater

A Gram-stain-positive, rod-shaped and non-motile strain, designated PAMC 27367(T), was isolated from rainwater collected on the Bering Sea. Analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence of the strain showed an affiliation with the genus Rhodococcus. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that strain PAMC 27367(T) formed a robust clade with the type strains of Rhodococcus rhodnii, Rhodococcus aetherivorans and Rhodococcus ruber with 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities of 96.3 %, 95.8 % and 95.5 %, respectively. Cells of the strain grew optimally at 25 °C and at pH 6.5-7.0 in the presence of 0-2 % (w/v) sea salts. The major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylinositol mannoside and three unknown phospholipids. The major cellular fatty acids (>10 %) were iso-C16 : 0, C17 : 1ω8c and 10-methyl C17 : 0. Cell wall analysis showed that strain PAMC 27367(T) contained meso-diaminopimelic acid. The genomic DNA G+C content was 77.1 mol%. Based on the phylogenetic, chemotaxonomic and phenotypic data presented here, we propose a novel species with the name Rhodococcus aerolatus sp. nov., with PAMC 27367(T) ( = KCTC 29240(T) = JCM 19485(T)) as the type strain.

Spatiotemporally controlled microchannels of periodontal mimic scaffolds

Physiologic bioengineering of the oral, dental, and craniofacial complex requires optimized geometric organizations of fibrous connective tissues. A computer-designed, fiber-guiding scaffold has been developed to promote tooth-supporting periodontal tissue regeneration and functional restoration despite limited printing resolution for the manufacture of submicron-scaled features. Here, we demonstrate the use of directional freeze-casting techniques to control pore directional angulations and create mimicked topographies to alveolar crest, horizontal, oblique, and apical fibers of natural periodontal ligaments. For the differing anatomic positions, the gelatin displayed varying patterns of ice growth, determined via internal pore architectures. Regardless of the freezing coordinates, the longitudinal pore arrangements resulted in submicron-scaled diameters (~50 µm), along with corresponding high biomaterial porosity (~90%). Furthermore, the horizontal + coronal ([Formula: see text]) freezing orientation facilitated the creation of similar structures to major fibers in the periodontal ligament interface. This periodontal tissue-mimicking microenvironment is a potential tissue platform for the generation of naturally oriented ligamentous tissues consistent with periodontal ligament neogenesis.

Study on Growth Curves of Longissimus dorsi Muscle Area, Backfat Thickness and Body Conformation for Hanwoo (Korean Native) Cows

The objective of this study was to estimate the parameters of Gompertz growth curves with the measurements of body conformation, real-time ultrasound longissimus dorsi muscle area (LMA) and backfat thickness (BFT) in Hanwoo cows. The Hanwoo cows (n = 3,373) were born in 97 Hanwoo commercial farms in the 17 cities or counties of Gyeongbuk province, Korea, between 2000 and 2007. A total of 5,504 ultrasound measurements were collected for the cows at the age of 13 to 165 months in 2007 and 2008. Wither height (HW), rump height (HR), the horizontal distance between the top of the hips (WH), and girth of chest (GC) were also measured. Analysis of variance was conducted to investigate variables affecting LMA and BFT. The effect of farm nested in location was included in the statistical model, as well as the effects of HW, HR, WH, and GC as covariates. All of the effects were significant in the analysis of variance for LMA and BFT (p<0.01), except for the HR effect for LMA. The two ultrasound measures and the four body conformation traits were fitted to a Gompertz growth curve function to estimate parameters. Upper asymptotic weights were estimated as 54.0 cm², 7.67 mm, 125.6 cm, 126.4 cm, 29.3 cm, and 184.1 cm, for LMA, BFT, HW, HR, WH, and GC, respectively. Results of ultrasound measurements showed that Hanwoo cows had smaller LMA and greater BFT than other western cattle breeds, suggesting that care must be taken to select for thick BFT rather than an increase of only beef yield. More ultrasound records per cow are needed to get accurate estimates of growth curve, which, thus, helps producers select animals with high accuracy.

Overexpression of the Brassica rapa transcription factor WRKY12 results in reduced soft rot symptoms caused by Pectobacterium carotovorum in Arabidopsis and Chinese cabbage

Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa L. ssp. pekinensis), an important vegetable crop, can succumb to diseases such as bacterial soft rot, resulting in significant loss of crop productivity and quality. Pectobacterium carotovorum ssp. carotovorum (Pcc) causes soft rot disease in various plants, including Chinese cabbage. To overcome crop loss caused by bacterial soft rot, a gene from Chinese cabbage was isolated and characterised in this study. We isolated the BrWRKY12 gene from Chinese cabbage, which is a group II member of the WRKY transcription factor superfamily. The 645-bp coding sequence of BrWRKY12 translates to a protein with a molecular mass of approximately 24.4 kDa, and BrWRKY12 was exclusively localised in the nucleus. Transcripts of BrWRKY12 were induced by Pcc infection in Brassica. Heterologous expression of BrWRKY12 resulted in reduced susceptibility to Pcc but not to Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato in Arabidopsis. Defence-associated genes, such as AtPDF1.2 and AtPGIP2, were constitutively expressed in transgenic lines overexpressing BrWRKY12. The expression of AtWKRY12, which is the closest orthologue of BrWRKY12, was down-regulated by Pcc in Arabidopsis. However, the Atwrky12-2 mutants did not show any difference in response to Pcc, pointing to a difference in function of WRKY12 in Brassica and Arabidopsis. Furthermore, BrWRKY12 in Chinese cabbage also exhibited enhanced resistance to bacterial soft rot and increased the expression of defence-associated genes. In summary, BrWRKY12 confers enhanced resistance to Pcc through transcriptional activation of defence-related genes.

Estimation of Genetic Parameters for Real-time Ultrasound Measurements for Hanwoo Cows at Different Ages and Pregnancy Status

The purpose of this study was to estimate genetic parameters of ultrasound measurements for longissimus dorsi muscle area (LMA), backfat thickness (BFT), and marbling score (MS) in Hanwoo cows (N = 3,062) at the ages between 18 and 42 months. Data were collected from 100 Hanwoo breeding farms in Gyeongbuk province, Korea, in 2007 and 2008. The cows were classified into four different age groups, i.e. 18 to 22 months (the first pregnancy period), 23 to 27 (the first parturition), 28 to 32 (the second pregnancy), and 33 to 42 (the second parturition), respectively. For each age group, a multi-trait animal model was used to estimate variance components and heritabilities of the three traits. The averages of LMA, BFT, and MS measurements across the cows of all age groups were 50.1 cm², 4.62 mm, and 3.04, respectively and heritability estimates were 0.09, 0.10, and 0.08 for the respective traits. However, when the data were analyzed in different age groups, heritability estimates of LMA and BFT were 0.24 and 0.47, respectively, for the cows of 18 to 22 months of age, and 0.21 for MS in the 28 to 32 months old cows. When the cows of all age groups were used, the estimates of genetic (phenotypic) correlations were 0.43 (0.35), −0.06 (0.34) and 0.21 (0.32) between LMA and BFT, LMA and MS, and BFT and MS, respectively. However, in the cow age group between 28 and 32 (18 and 22) months, the estimates of genetic (phenotypic) correlations were 0.05 (0.29), −0.15 (0.24) and 0.38 (0.24), for the respective pairs of traits. These results suggest that genetic, environmental, and phenotypic variations differ depending on cow age, such that care must be taken when ultrasound measurements are applied to selection of cows for meat quality.

Aminoguanidine protects against apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells in Zucker diabetic fatty rats

AIM

The inhibition of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and the receptor for AGEs (RAGE) mediated downstream signaling pathways have been suggested to have retinoprotective actions in diabetic retinopathy. Herein, we examined the protective effects of aminoguanidine (AG), an AGEs inhibitor, on diabetes-induced injury of retinal ganglion cells in the Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seven-week-old male ZDF rats were treated with AG (50 mg/kg body weight) once a day orally for 13 weeks. Serum and vitreous concentration of AGEs were examined. Expressions of AGEs and its receptor (RAGE) were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Southwestern histochemistry was used to detect activated nuclear factor (NF)-κB.

RESULTS

At the end of the study, vitreal levels of AGEs were significantly reduced in ZDF rats treated with AG. Similary, immunohistochemical analysis showed that AG significantly reduced the positive areas for AGEs and RAGE. Furthermore, AG strongly inhibited the loss of retinal ganglion cells by apoptosis. AG also suppressed the activation of to NF-κB.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that AG has retinoprotective properties through not only direct inhibition of AGEs formation but also downregulation of NF-κB.

Only the chemical state of Indium changes in Mn-doped In3Sb1Te2 (Mn: 10 at.%) during multi-level resistance changes

We fabricated and characterized the material with Mn (10 at.%: atomic percent) doped In3Sb1Te2 (MIST) using co-sputtering and synchrotron radiation, respectively. The MIST thin film showed phase-changes at 97 and 320 °C, with sheet resistances of ~10 kΩ(sq) (amorphous), ~0.2 kΩ(sq) (first phase-change), and ~10 Ω(sq) (second phase-change). MIST did not exhibit any chemical separation or increased structural instability during either phase-change, as determined with high-resolution x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Chemical state changes were only depended for In without concomitant changes of Sb and Te. Apparently, doped Mn atoms can be induced with movement of only In atoms.

Expression of heat shock protein 90 in the kidneys of diabetic db/db mice

OBJECTIVE

To identify novel genes regulated in diabetic nephropathy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Total RNA from the renal cortex of db/+ and db/db mice was isolated and DNA microarrays specific for diabetes signaling pathways were used for expression profiling. Expression of mRNA and protein was determined by RT-PCR and western blotting. The terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated biotinylated UTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay and immunohistochemical staining were assessed in renal cortex of db/db mice.

RESULTS

Microarray data revealed that 7 genes show up- or down-regulated pattern and diabetic mice specifically decreased heat shock protein (Hsp) 90α expression of genes compared to control mice (diabetic mice 0.68 vs. control mice 1 relative density). Expression of Hsp90α mRNA and Hsp90 protein was significantly decreased in the renal cortex of diabetic mice. However, Hsp70 mRNA and protein expression was not changed. Apoptosis was increased in glomeruli of diabetic mice due to increased expression of cleaved caspase-3 and Bax.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that Hsp 90 expression was decreased in diabetic glomeruli and decreased Hsp90 expression may mediate podocyte apoptosis in type 2 diabetic kidneys.

Curcumin decreases oleic acid-induced lipid accumulation via AMPK phosphorylation in hepatocarcinoma cells

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common metabolic syndromes and is characterized by the accumulation of hepatic triglycerides (TG), which result from an imbalance between uptake, synthesis, export, and oxidation of fatty acids. Curcumin is a polyphenol derived from the herbal remedy and dietary spice turmeric, was found to prevent obesity and diabetes in mouse models. However, a hypolipidemic effect of curcumin in oleic acid- induced hepatocarcinoma cells has not been reported. In this study, we examined the effect of curcumin on reducing lipid accumulation in hepatic cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Hepatocytes were treated with oleic acid (OA) containing with or without curcumin to observe the lipid accumulation by Oil Red O stain. We also tested the effects of curcumin on triglycerides (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) in HepG2 cells. Western blot and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to measure sterol regulatory element binding proteins-1 (SREBP-1), fatty acid synthase (FAS), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α, and adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) expression.

RESULTS

Curcumin suppressed OA-induced lipid accumulation and TG and TC levels. Also, curcumin decreased hepatic lipogenesis such as SREBP-1, and FAS. Besides, we also found out the antioxidative effect of curcumin by increasing the expression of PPARα. Curcumin increased AMPK phosphorylation in hepatocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicated that curcumin has the same ability to activate AMPK and then reduce SREBP-1, and FAS expression, finally leading to inhibit hepatic lipogenesis and hepatic antioxidative ability. In this report, we found curcumin exerted a regulatory effect on lipid accumulation by decreasing lipogenesis in hepatocyte. Therefore, curcumin extract may be active in the prevention of fatty liver.

Deferoxamine promotes osteoblastic differentiation in human periodontal ligament cells via the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-mediated antioxidant signaling pathway

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Recently it was reported that deferoxamine (DFO), an iron chelator, stimulates bone formation from MG63 and mesenchymal stem cells, but inhibits differentiation in rat calvarial cells; however, the effect of DFO on osteoblastic differentiation in human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs) has not been reported. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects and the possible underlying mechanism of DFO on osteoblastic differentiation of hPDLCs.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The effect of DFO on osteoblast differentiation was determined by the staining intensity of calcium deposits with Alizarin red and by RT-PCR analysis of the expression of osteoblastic markers. Signal transduction pathways were analyzed by western blotting.

RESULTS

DFO increased osteogenic differentiation in a concentration-dependent manner by expression of the mRNA for differentiation markers and calcium nodule formation. Exposure of hPDLCs to DFO resulted in increases in the production of reactive oxygen species and in the levels of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) protein in nuclear extractions, as well as a dose-dependent increase in the expression of Nrf2 target genes, including glutathione (GSH), glutathione S-transferase, γ-glutamylcysteine lygase, glutathione reductase and glutathione peroxidase. Pretreatment with Nrf2 small interfering RNA, GSH depletion by buthionine sulfoximine and diethyl maleate, and with antioxidants by N-acetylcysteine and vitamin E, blocked DFO-stimulated osteoblastic differentiation. Furthermore, pretreatment with GSH depletion and antioxidants blocked DFO-induced p38 MAPK, ERK, JNK and nuclear factor-kappaB pathways.

CONCLUSION

These data indicate, for the first time, that nontoxic DFO promotes osteoblastic differentiation of hPDLCs via modulation of the Nrf2-mediated antioxidant pathway.

Resolution of adefovir-related nephrotoxicity by adefovir dose-reduction in patients with chronic hepatitis B

BACKGROUND

Chronic hepatitis B patients (CHB) treated with adefovir were followed up to evaluate nephrotoxicity and its outcome.

AIM

To assess the incidence of renal dysfunction during adefovir therapy in Asian patients and factors associated with it, and evaluate strategies to improve adefovir-related renal dysfunction and their impact on viral suppression.

METHODS

Chronic hepatitis B clinic patients from a tertiary hospital on adefovir treatment, with their clinical and laboratory parameters were extracted from the hospital electronic clinical database in an observational study design. Patients were excluded if they had liver/renal transplant, baseline renal impairment or were on dialysis. Adefovir-related renal dysfunction was defined as adefovir-related abnormal serum creatinine (ARASC) > 125 μmol/L (males), >90 μmol/L (females); adefovir-related abnormal GFR <60 mL/min; and adefovir-related increased serum creatinine >0.5 mg/dL, without other known causes of nephrotoxicity.

RESULTS

A total of 271/383 adefovir-treated patients were suitable for analysis and 33(12%) patients developed abnormal serum creatinine. Cumulative increase in proportion of patients with ARASC was 33.8% and GFR ≤60 mL/min was 38.3% by 6 years, while serum creatinine increase ≥0.5 mg/dL was 21.48% by 5 years. Using multivariate analysis, the only independent baseline predictor of ARASC was GFR ≤76.1 mL/min. Patients who had ARASC had similar levels of viral suppression to those who did not have ARASC. Those who had ARASC either continued adefovir (24%), switched therapy (24%) or had adefovir dose reduction (52%). ARASC resolved and GFR normalised in almost all patients after either switching therapy or reducing adefovir dose, with no difference between the two strategies (P = 0.737). Those with adefovir dose reduction had no significant increase in HBV DNA (P = 0.170).

CONCLUSIONS

Adefovir-related renal dysfunction occurred in a significant number of adefovir-treated patients, but reduction of the dose led to renal improvement without compromising treatment efficacy.

The protective effects of oxyresveratrol imine derivative against hydrogen peroxide-induced cell death in PC12 cells

Oxyresveratrol (2',3,4',5-tetrahydroxystilbene) is a naturally occurring ingredient found in mulberries that shows potential as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective agent. This study was performed to identify materials similar to oxyresveratrol that may have more effective antioxidant properties. We synthesized a stilbene analog referred to as Compound 1 (2',3,4',5-tetramethoxystilbene); a benzamide analog referred to as Compound 2 ((2,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-3,5-dimethoxybenzamide); and three imine analogs referred to as Compound 3 (3,5-dimethoxybenzylidene)-(2,4-dimethoxyphenylamine), Compound 4 ((4-methoxybenzylidene)-(3-methoxyphenyl)amine), and Compound 5 ((4-methoxybenzylidene)phenylamine). The cytoprotective effects of these compounds were subsequently evaluated using hydrogen peroxide-treated PC12 cells. The cytoprotective effects of the imine analogs were greater than the effects of oxyresveratrol and the other analogs at concentrations of 200 μM. The Compound 3, which is the most effective imine analog of oxyresveratrol, exhibited these cytoprotective effects against hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress through the regulation of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression and the translocation of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Our results suggest that imine analogs of oxyresveratrol may be useful agents in reducing neuronal oxidative damage.

296 IN VITRO DIFFERENTIATION OF PORCINE BONE MARROW-DERIVED MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS INTO HEPATOCYTE-LIKE CELLS

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are isolated from bone marrow or other tissues, and have properties of self renewal and multilineage differentiation ability. The current study investigated the in vitro differentiation potential of porcine bone marrow derived MSCs into hepatocyte-like cells. The MSC were isolated from the bone marrow of adult miniature pigs (7 months old, T-type, PWG Micro-pig®, PWG Genetics, Seoul, Korea) and adherent cells with fibroblast-like morphology were cultured on plastic. Isolated MSCs were positive for CD29, CD44, CD73, CD90, and vimentin, and negative for CD34, CD45, major histocompatibility complex-class II (MHC-class II), and swine leukocyte antigen-DR (SLA-DR) by flow cytometry analysis. Further, trilineage differentiation of MSC into osteocytes (alkaline phosphatase, von Kossa and Alizarin red), adipocytes (Oil Red O), and chondrocytes (Alcian blue) was confirmed. Differentiation of MSC into hepatocyte-like cells was induced with sequential supplementation of growth factors, cytokines, and hormones for 21 days as described previously (Taléns-Visconti et al. 2006 World J. Gastroenterol. 12, 5834–5845). Morphological analysis, expression of liver-specific markers, and functional assays were performed to evaluate the hepatic differentiation of MSC. Under hepatogenic conditions, MSC acquired cuboidal morphology with cytoplasmic granules. These hepatocyte-like cells expressed α-fetoprotein (AFP), albumin (ALB), cytokeratin 18 (CK18), cytochrome P450 7A1 (CYP7A1), and hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 (HNF-1) markers by immunofluorescence assay. In addition, the expression of selected markers was demonstrated by Western blotting analysis. In accordance with these features, RT-PCR revealed transcripts of AFP, ALB, CK18, CYP7A1, and HNF-1α. Further, the relative expression levels of these transcripts were analysed by quantitative RT-PCR after normalizing to the expression of the endogenous control, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH). Data were analysed statistically by one-way ANOVA using PASW statistics 18 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA), and significance was considered at P < 0.05. The results showed that the relative expressions of selected marker genes in hepatocyte-like cells were significantly increased compared with that in untreated MSC. The generated hepatocyte-like cells showed glycogen storage as analysed by periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining. Moreover, the induced cells produced urea at Day 21 of culture compared with control MSC. In conclusion, our results indicate the potential of porcine MSC to differentiate in vitro into hepatocyte-like cells. Further studies on the functional properties of hepatocyte-like cells are needed to use porcine MSC as an ideal source for liver cell therapy and preclinical drug evaluation. This work was supported by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation (NRF), funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (2010-0010528) and the Next-Generation BioGreen 21 Program (No. PJ009021), Rural Development Administration, Republic of Korea.

Association between the interleukin-18 promoter polymorphism and pulmonary tuberculosis in a Korean population

OBJECTIVE

To examine the role of the -667G/T, -618A/C and -148G/C single nucleotide polymorphisms in the promoter region of the human interleukin (IL) 18 gene in the development of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), and its radiographic characteristics and severity.

DESIGN

Differences in the allele and genotype distributions of the -667G/T, -618A/C, and -148G/C polymorphisms between 251 patients with PTB and 225 healthy controls, between patients with single- and multilobe involvement, and between patients with and without cavities were explored. Serum IL-18 levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

The -148G/G genotype was more common in patients with cavities than in those without (82.8% vs. 70.9%, P = 0.04), but an analogous trend was not observed for the -667G/T and -618A/C genotypes. However, there were no significant differences in allele and genotype distributions between patients with PTB and healthy controls, or between patients with single- and multilobe involvement (P > 0.05). Serum IL-18 levels were higher in patients with cavities (P = 0.01) and in patients with the -148G/G genotype (P = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Considering serum IL-18 levels, the -148G/G genotype is associated with a cavitary formation of PTB rather than its development.

222 GENERATION OF INDUCED PLURIPOTENT STEM CELL-LIKE CELLS FROM RAT EAR SKIN CELLS

Generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) present not only an opportunity to use the autologous cells clinically but also as cellular models for studying molecular mechanisms of various diseases and screening of drugs. The objective of the present study was to generate iPSC-like cells from rat ear skin cells by evaluating the expression of alkaline phosphatase (AP) activity, detection of markers specific to embryonic stem cells (ESC) and in vitro differentiation into selected cell lineages. Ear skin cells were isolated from 6-week-old s.d. rats and cultured in advanced-DMEM supplemented with 10% FBS at 37°C in a humidified atmosphere of 5% CO2 in air. Cells were reprogrammed with retroviral factors, namely OCT4, SOX2, KLF4 and c-Myc, the combination commonly used to generate mouse and human iPSCs. These cells were cultured in media specific to ESC on mitomycin treated mouse embryonic fibroblasts at 37°C in a humidified atmosphere of 5% CO2 in air. AP activity was assessed with Western Blue® kit (Promega, Madison, WI, USA). Expressions of ESC specific markers, such as OCT4, NANOG, SSEA-1, SSEA-4 and REX1 were evaluated by reverse transcriptase-PCR (RT-PCR). Reprogrammed iPSC-like cells were differentiated into adipogenic, osteogenic and neurogenic lineages by following previously described protocols. Cytochemical staining was performed to confirm the adipogenesis and osteogenesis. Further, the lineage specific marker genes in adipocytes (PPARγ2, adiponectin and aP2), osteocytes (osteocalcin, osteonectin, osteopontin and Runx2) and neuronal cells (nestin, neurogenin-1, β-tubulin and nerve growth factor) were evaluated by RT-PCR. Following transduction, ear skin cells were successfully reprogrammed into iPSC-like cells. Generated iPSC-like cells were positive for AP activity and clearly expressed the markers of ESC, including OCT4, NANOG, SSEA-1, SSEA-4 and REX1. After induction, iPSC-like cells were capable of differentiating in vitro into adipocytes as indicated by Oil red O staining and expressed the specific markers, such as PPARγ2, adiponectin and aP2. Differentiation of iPSC-like cells into osteocytes was evidenced by von Kossa staining and the detection of marker genes, osteocalcin, osteonectin, osteopontin and Runx2. Furthermore, upon neuronal specific induction, iPSC-like cells were able to form neuronal cells as demonstrated by the expression of neuronal specific markers, such as nestin, neurogenin-1, β-tubulin and nerve growth factor. In conclusion, our results showed the successful generation of iPSC-like cells from rat ear skin cells by exhibiting similar features of ESCs and demonstrated their ability to differentiate in vitro into adipocytes, osteocytes and neuronal cells. Further studies are being carried out to characterise and demonstrate the pluripotency capacity of generated iPS-like cells in a rat model. This work was supported by Grant No. 2007031034040 from Bio-organ and Grant No. 200908FHT010204005 from Biogreen21.

206 GENERATION OF HUMAN INDUCED PLURIPOTENT STEM CELLS FROM DENTAL PULP-DERIVED MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS

Induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells are somatic cells that have been reprogrammed to a pluripotent state and a great source for regenerative medicine. Several types of human somatic and adult stem cells have been reprogrammed into iPS cells, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). Recently, human dental pulp has been considered as a valuable alternative source of MSC (hDP-MSC) with excellent proliferation capacity and multilineage differentiation potential. In this study, our objective was to establish iPS cells from hDP-MSC and evaluate the expression of transcriptional factors and in vitro differentiation potential into mesenchymal lineages. The hMSC were isolated from the dental pulp of male donor (∼18 years old) were cultured in advanced-DMEM supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum at 37°C, 5% CO2 in a humidified atmosphere. The hDP-MSC at passage 3 were analysed for the expression of MSC-specific surface markers (CD44 and CD90) using flow cytometry and transcriptional factors (Oct4, Nanog and Sox2) by immunofluorescence staining and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Differentiation into adipocytes and osteocytes of hDP-MSC was carried out under specific conditions for 2 and 4 weeks, respectively and assessed by cytochemical staining (Oil red O, von Kossa and Alizarin Red S, respectively). iPS cells were generated from hDP-MSC at passage 3 by using pMXs retroviral vector (Addgene, Cambridge, MA, USA) containing cDNA of c-Myc, Klf4, Nanog and Sox2. The iPS cells were evaluated for alkaline phosphatase (AP) activity, expression of human embryonic stem cells (hESC) markers (Rex1, Nanog, Oct4, SSEA-1 and TRA-160) by immunostaining. Isolated hDP-MSC expressed surface markers, such as CD44 and CD90 (86% and 93%, respectively) by flow cytometry and positively stained for transcriptional factors (Oct4, Nanog and Sox2) by immunofluorescence. Further, the cells were capable of differentiating in vitro into adipocytes and osteocytes as demonstrated by Oil red O and von Kossa and Alizarin red S staining, respectively. The iPS cells generated from hDP-MSC were positive for AP staining and clearly expressed the markers specific to hESC, including Rex1, Nanog, Oct4, SSEA-1 and TRA-160. In conclusion, hMSC derived from dental pulp could be successfully reprogrammed into iPS cells by retroviral vector systems and the generated iPS cells shared the similar characteristics of hESC. Therefore, hDP-MSC might be an ideal alternative cell source to derive autologous iPS cells for therapeutic applications. This work was supported by Grant No. 2007031034040 from Bio-organ and Grant No. 200908FHT010204005 from Biogreen21.

218 DONOR-MATCHED FUNCTIONAL AND MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION OF CANINE MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS DERIVED FROM DIFFERENT ORIGINS

Canine mesenchymal stem cells (cMSC) have been successfully isolated from several adult tissue sources. However, differences in the biological properties of MSC have been shown to be associated with donor variability. Further, the stem cell capacity of cMSC of various tissues isolated from a single donor is currently unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the functional and molecular characteristics of cMSC derived from bone marrow (cBM-MSC), adipose tissue (cA-MSC) and dermal skin (cDS-MSC) of a single donor. Three kinds of cMSC were isolated by following previously published protocols. AP activity was assessed with a chromogen kit (Abcam Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA). Expression of CD markers (CD45, 90 and 105) and stem cell transcription factors (Oct3/4, Nanog and Sox2) was analysed by immunocytochemical staining. All cells were induced into osteogenesis and adipogenesis by following protocols described earlier and confirmed by cytochemical staining and the detection of lineage specific genes by RT-PCR. Chromosomal stability was assessed by a method described earlier (Ock and Rho 2008 J. Vet. Med. Sci. 70, 1165–1172) and cell cycle status was determined by a flow cytometry. Telomere length was analysed by Telo TAGGG Telomere Length Assay kit (Roche, Mannheim, Germany) and telomerase activity was evaluated by semiquantitative nested RT-PCR. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA using SPSS 12.0 and significance was tested when P < 0.05. Expressions of AP activity and the transcription factors, such as Oct3/4, Nanog and Sox2 were absent in all cMSC. All 3 types of cMSC positively expressed the surface markers CD90 and 105 but not CD45. Exposure of all cell lines to osteogenic and adipogenic induction medium resulted in the calcium deposition evidenced by Alizarin red S staining and the accumulation of fat globules indicated by Oil red O staining, respectively. Differentiation was further confirmed by the detection of marker genes, such as Runx2 and Pparγ. However, the degree of osteogenic or adipogenic differentiation among the 3 kinds of cMSC was different and particularly, cA-MSC had enhanced cytochemical staining associated with expression of specific genes, Runx2 and Pparγ. Ploidy analysis showed that the diploid rate was high with over 90% in all cMSC and indicated no noticeable chromosomal abnormalities. Further, less than 52% of cells were found at G1 phase in all cMSC, with lowest percentage observed in cDS-MSC (33.3%). Regardless of varied tissue sources, cMSC from a single donor showed no differences in telomere lengths (∼18–19 kbp), but the telomerase activity was different with significantly higher levels found in cBM-MSC. In conclusion, the above results suggest that tissue specific cMSC derived from a single donor possess differences in stem cell capacity and support the consideration of tissue source before judging the suitability of cells for therapeutic applications. This work was supported by grant from Basic Science Research Program through NRF funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (2009-0064229).

212 PORCINE BONE MARROW-DERIVED MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS DIFFERENTIATE IN VITRO INTO SMOOTH MUSCLE CELLS

In the context of multipotent stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) derived from bone marrow have been identified as most promising cell types for the treatment of smooth muscle related injured tissues and organs. In the present study, the ability of porcine bone marrow derived MSC to differentiate in vitro into smooth muscle cells (SMC) was examined. MSC were isolated from domestic pig bone marrow by their readily adherent property to tissue culture plastic with fibroblast-like morphology. Cells were analysed for the expression of MSC specific markers by flow cytometer and mesenchymal lineage differentiation by following previously published protocols. Differences in values were analysed by one-way ANOVA using SPSS and data are presented as mean ± SD. Flow cytometry analysis of MSC showed the positive expression of markers, such as CD29 (97.33 ± 2.08%), CD44 (97.67 ± 1.15%), CD73 (62.33 ± 2.89%), CD90 (96.67 ± 2.08%) and vimentin (59.33 ± 2.52%). In contrast, the expression levels were significantly lower for CD34 (3.33 ± 1.53%), CD45 (3.67 ± 1.53%), major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC class II, 10.33 ± 2.52%) and swine leukocyte antigen-DR (SLA-DR, 9.67 ± 2.08%). The MSC were further confirmed by their ability to differentiate in vitro along the distinct lineages of adipocytes (Oil red O), osteocytes (von Kossa and Alizarin red) and chondrocytes (Alcian blue). Induction of SMC differentiation was performed with supplementation of porcine transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and recombinant human bone morphogenic protein 4 (BMP4) as described earlier (Wang et al. 2010 Tissue Eng. A 1201–1213) with minor modifications. Upon induction, porcine MSC acquired myoblast-like morphology with intracellular thin filaments. Immunofluorescence staining showed the presence of early and late markers of smooth muscle differentiation, such as α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), calponin, smooth muscle 22 α (SM22α) and smooth muscle-myosin heavy chain (SM-MHC) and their expression levels varied from 22.65% to 56.75%. Later, the expression of selected markers was demonstrated by Western blotting analysis. Consistent with this phenotypic characterisation, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) further showed the expression and a sequential up-regulation of transcripts for α-SMA, calponin, SM22α and SM-MHC. However, no expression of SMC-specific markers was observed in untreated MSC. In conclusion, these findings suggest the ability of porcine MSC from bone marrow to differentiate in vitro into SMC in the presence of growth factors. Further understanding of SMC differentiation with functional properties would be essential for employing porcine MSC as a useful model for cell-based tissue engineering and regeneration strategies. This work was supported by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation (NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (2010-0010528) and BioGreen 21 (20070301034040), Republic of Korea.

303 IN VITRO NEURONAL DIFFERENTIATION OF MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS DERIVED FROM CANINE EAR SKIN

The canine has been a useful animal model for the study of fundamental mechanisms and the testing of new therapies for several human pathologies using mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). For preclinical applications, the most commonly used source of canine MSC is bone marrow. Because the amount of autologous bone marrow that can be obtained is limited, skin tissue could supply a noninvasive alternative with large quantities available for the establishment of MSC. In this study, we isolated canine MSC (cMSC) from ear skin and evaluated the expression of transcriptional factors and in vitro differentiation into multiple mesenchymal lineages. The cMSC isolated from the ear skin of a female beagle dog (6 years old) were cultured in advanced-DMEM/F12 (1:1, v/v) supplemented with 10% serum replacement at 37°C, 5% CO2 in a humidified atmosphere. The cMSC at passage 3 were analysed for expression of surface markers (CD44, CD90, and CD105) and transcriptional factors (Oct-4, Nanog, and Sox2) using flow cytometry, immunohistochemical staining and RT-PCR, respectively. Differentiations into adipocytes and osteocytes of cMSC were carried out under controlled conditions for 2 and 4 weeks and evaluated by staining (Oil Red O, von Kossa and Alizarin Red S, respectively). The cMSC were induced to differentiate into neural cells in the controlled condition for 6 h. Neuronal differentiated cMSC were evaluated by immunohistochemical staining, RT-PCR, and Western blot of specific markers of neuron, such as Î2-tubulin, microtubule associated protein (MAP-2), neuronfilament M (NF-M), nerve growth factor (NGF), and nestin. The MSC surface markers such as CD44, 90, and 105 were highly detected, and transcriptional factors (Oct-4, Nanog, and Sox2) were expressed in cMSC. Adipocyte induced cells were positive by staining with Oil Red O, and osteocytes were stained by von Kossa and Alizarin Red S. Neuronal specific markers such as Î2-tubulin, MAP-2, NF-M, NGF, and nestin were expressed in the neuron induced cMSC. In conclusion, canine ear-skin-derived MSC have the capacity for differentiation into multiple lineages and have a confirmed great capability for neuronal differentiation. Hence, canine ear skin tissue could be considered a source for applications of MSC for neuronal regeneration therapy of canine and a preclinical research model for human. This work was supported by Grant No. 2007031034040 from Bio-organ and Grant No. 200908FHT010204005 from Biogreen21.

306 IN VITRO CARDIOMYOGENIC AND NEUROGENIC DIFFERENTIATION OF MINIPIG BONE MARROW MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS

Differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) into specialised cells in vitro before transplantation may improve the engraftment efficiency of the transplanted cells as well as the safety and efficacy of treatment. To understand the differentiation process and the functional identities of cells in an animal model, we examined the in vitro differentiation capacity of porcine MSC (3–6 passage) into cardiomyocyte-like and neuron-like cells. The MSC isolated from the bone marrow of postnatal miniature piglets [T-type, PWG Micro-pig (R), PWG Genetics, Korea] exhibited a typical fibroblast-like morphology and expressed the specific markers, such as CD29, CD44, and CD90. After 21 days of culture in induction media, MSC revealed the appropriate phenotype of osteocytes (von Kossa and Alizarin red), adipocytes (Oil red O), and chondrocytes (Alcian blue). Ther MSC were further induced into cardiomyogenic and neurogenic differentiation following the protocols described earlier (Tomita et al. 2002 J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. 123, 1132–1140) and (Woodbury et al. 2002 J. Neurosci. Res. 96, 908–917), respectively, with minor modifications. Expression of lineage-specific markers was evaluated by immunocytochemistry, and RT-PCR and quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). For cardiomyogenic differentiation, MSC were stimulated with 10 μM 5-azacytidine for 24 h, 3 days, or 7 days, and the cells were maintained in culture for 21 days. Upon induction, MSC exhibited elongated and stick-like morphology with extended cytoplasmic processes, and toward the end of culture, cells formed aggregates and myotube-like structures. Immunostaining was positive for the markers of cardiomyocyte-like cells, such as α-smooth muscle actin, cardiac troponin T, desmin, and α-cardiac actin. The RT-PCR and RT-qPCR analysis showed the expression and a time dependent up-regulation of cardiac troponin T, desmin, α-cardiac actin, and β-myosin heavy chain genes. Following induction with neuronal-specific media for 3 days, above 80% of MSC acquired the morphology of neuron-like cells with bi- or multipolar cell processes forming a network-like structure. Induced cells with neuronal phenotype were positively stained for nestin, neuronal nuclei (NeuN), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and neurofilament-M (NF-M). The expression of neural transcripts, such as nestin, GFAP, and NF-M, was further confirmed by RT-PCR and RT-qPCR. In conclusion, our results showed the potential of porcine MSC to differentiate in vitro into cardiomyocyte-like and neuron-like cells, thus offering a useful model for studying their functional and molecular properties before transplantation. This work was supported by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation (NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (2010-0010528) and BioGreen 21 (20070301034040), Republic of Korea.

168 CHARACTERIZATION AND DIFFERENTIATION INTO OOCYTE-LIKE CELL MASSES OF PORCINE MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS DERIVED FROM OVARIAN THECA CELLS

Recent findings have shown that ovaries after birth have germ line stem cells, which were considered as an alternative for the production of an animal model. The present study was therefore aimed to characterise ovarian theca cells and generate oocyte-like cell masses in vitro in porcine. Theca cells isolated from ovarian follicle were cultured in A-DMEM supplemented with 10% FBS at 38.5°C in a humidified atmosphere of 5% CO2 in air. The cells were evaluated the expression of transcriptional factors (Oct3/4, Nanog, and Sox2) by immunocytochemical staining and RT-PCR, and followed by differentiated into osteocytes, adipocytes, and chondrocytes under controlled conditions. Differentiation of multiple mesenchymal lineages was confirmed by RT-PCR and specific marker staining. Differentiated cells into osteocytes, adipocytes, and chondrocytes were characterised by von Kossa and Alizarin Red staining, Oil red O staining, and Alcian Blue staining, respectively. The specific genes of osteocytes (Osteonectin, Osteocalcin and Runx2) and adipocytes (aP2) were analysed by RT-PCR. In vitro oogenesis was induced in DMEM/F12 by the previously described method (Dyce et al. 2006) for 48 days. Expression of transcriptional factors (Oct4, Sox2, and Nanog) and oocyte-specific markers (c-Mos and GDF9b) was analysed by RT-PCR in these differentiated cells. At 48 days of differentiation, the oocyte-like cell masses were further cultured in TCM-199 supplemented with 0.5 μL mL–1 FSH and 0.5 μL mL–1 LH for 15 days. Induced cells were morphologically observed following Hoechst 33342. Expression of Oct3/4 was analysed by immunocytochemical staining in these cells. Among the transcriptional factors, only Sox2 was detected by immunocytochemical staining and RT-PCR in the theca cells. Differentiation to osteocytes, adipocyte, and chondrocytes was confirmed by specific-marker staining and gene expression by RT-PCR, respectively. The morphology of oocyte-like cell masses was distinct by 40 days of differentiation. Granulosa or cumulus-like cells were distributed through the whole surface of oocyte-like cell masses. Transcriptional factors, c-Mos, and GDF9b were detected in the cell masses by RT-PCR. After being transferred oocyte-like cell masses to TCM-199, zona pellucida-like structure was formed around the edge of the cell mass. After 15 days of culture in TCM-199, the morphology of cells was changed into blastocyst-like structure, which surrounded cumulus-like cells. Oct3/4 was expressed by immunocytochemical staining in a blastocyst-like structure. These observations demonstrated that ovarian theca cells have similar characteristics to mesenchymal stem cells in view of multilineage differentiation. Theca cells can be differentiated into oocyte-like cell masses, which expressed oocyte-specific markers. These cell masses were further developed to a blastocyst-like structure, which expressed Oct3/4. Further studies are required to evaluate in vivo differentiation to oocyte-like cells. This work was supported by Grant No. 200908FHT010204005 from Biogreen21 and Grant No. 2007031034040 from Bio-organ.

Pre-Measured Length Using Landmarks on Posteroanterior Chest Radiographs for Placement of the Tip of a Central Venous Catheter in the Superior Vena Cava

Central venous catheterization (CVC) is a common procedure but catheter misplacement is a frequent complication and can be lethal. Most CVCs are inserted at a recommended mean depth of 15 cm from the skin puncture site. Chest radiographs are used to confirm the positioning of CVCs, with the carina regarded as a reliable landmark for tip placement. The C-length, defined as the distance from the edge of the right transverse process of the first thoracic spine to the carina, can be measured on posteroanterior chest radiographs. To test the accuracy of C-length based CVC placement, 637 adult patients scheduled to undergo elective major abdominal procedures and neurological surgical procedures requiring CVC were randomized to undergo either the 15-cm guided method or the C-length guided method for placement of the CVC tip into the superior vena cava (SVC). All the CVC tips in the C-length group were successfully placed in the SVC. These findings indicate that the pre-measured C-length using two landmarks can be used to determine the insertion length and to place the CVC tip successfully into the SVC.

Enhancing biological phosphorus removal with glycerol

An enhanced biological phosphorus removal process (EBPR) was successfully operated in presence of acetate. When glycerol was substituted for acetate in the feed the EBPR process failed. Subsequently waste activated sludge (WAS) from the reactor was removed to an off-line fermenter. The same amount of glycerol was added to the WAS fermenter which led to significant volatile fatty acids (VFA) production. By supplying the system with the VFA-enriched supernatant of the fermentate, biological phosphorus removal was enhanced. It was concluded that, if glycerol was to be used as an external carbon source in EBPR, the effective approach was to ferment glycerol with waste activated sludge.

Eight enrichment broths for the isolation of Campylobacter jejuni from inoculated suspensions and ground pork

AIMS

The efficiency of eight enrichment broths for the selective isolation of Campylobacter jejuni was compared to identify an optimal enrichment broth.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Brucella-FBP, Preston, Doyle and Roman, modified CCD (mCCD), Park and Sanders, Bolton, Hunt and Radle and Hunt broths were compared for their recovery of (i) Camp. jejuni in suspension, (ii) Camp. jejuni from inoculated ground pork, (iii) heat-injured Camp. jejuni (55 degrees C for 20 min) in suspension and (iv) heat-injured Camp. jejuni from inoculated ground pork. Hunt broth and Bolton broth showed the highest and most rapid enrichment efficacy for the cell suspensions and ground pork, respectively. Preston, Park and Sanders and mCCD broths had relatively high enrichment efficiencies, while Brucella-FBP broth was significantly inferior to the other broths (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Cell recovery from the eight enrichment broths was dependent on the sample type and the state of the cells. The use of the appropriate broth is important for the rapid and efficacious enrichment of Camp. jejuni. In particular, heat-injured Camp. jejuni require a longer cultivation time and a suitable enrichment broth.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The results from the present study provide information for selecting the most appropriate enrichment broth for Camp. jejuni and may contribute to improved detection methods for the organism.

Sialolithiasis in a stump of Wharton's duct of an aplastic unilateral submandibular gland

Congenital absence of the salivary glands is an uncommon disorder. Isolated aplasia of a unilateral submandibular gland is rare and only 6 cases have been reported. The formation of a sialolith within the remaining Wharton's duct, associated with isolated aplasia of a unilateral submandibular gland, has not been reported previously. The authors report two cases of sialolithiasis within the ipsilateral remaining Wharton's duct in patients with isolated aplasia of a unilateral submandibular gland.

Hypoxic silencing of tumor suppressor RUNX3 by histone modification in gastric cancer cells

RUNX3 is a tumor suppressor that is silenced in cancer following hypermethylation of its promoter. The effects of hypoxia in tumor suppressor gene (TSG) transcription are largely unknown. Here, we investigated hypoxia-induced silencing mechanisms of RUNX3. The expression of RUNX3 was downregulated in response to hypoxia in human gastric cancer cells at the transcriptional level. This downregulation was abolished following treatment with the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor trichostatin A (TSA) and cytosine methylation inhibitor 5-aza-2-deoxycytidine (5-Aza), suggesting that an epigenetic regulatory mechanism may be involved in RUNX3 silencing by hypoxia. DNA methylation PCR and bisulfite-sequencing data revealed that hypoxia did not affect the methylation of RUNX3 promoter. A chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay revealed increased histone H3-lysine 9 dimethylation and decreased H3 acetylation in the RUNX3 promoter following hypoxia. Hypoxia resulted in the upregulation of G9a histone methyltransferase (HMT) and HDAC1; additionally, overexpression of G9a and HDAC1 attenuated RUNX3 expression. The overexpression of G9a and HDAC1, but not their mutants, inhibited the nuclear localization and expression of RUNX3. Diminished mRNA expression and nuclear localization of RUNX3 during hypoxia was abolished by siRNA-mediated knockdown of G9a and HDAC1. This study suggests that hypoxia silences RUNX3 by epigenetic histone regulation during the progression of gastric cancer.