Association between Socioecological Status, Nutrient Intake, and Cancer Screening Behaviors in Adults Aged 40 and Over: Insights from the Eighth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES, 2019)

Cancer screening is pivotal for early detection and improved survival rates. While socio-ecological factors are known to influence screening uptake, the role of lifestyle, dietary habits, and general health in shaping these decisions remains underexplored. Utilizing the 2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), this study examined the myriad of factors impacting cancer screening utilization. Data from 274,872 adults aged 40 years or older were scrutinized, highlighting demographics, income, lifestyle behaviors, health-related variables, nutrient intake, and dietary quality. A combination of descriptive statistics and logistic regression helped us ascertain influential determinants. Higher educational attainment and income quartiles were positively correlated with cancer screening rates. Regular walkers, those engaged in moderate physical activity, and individuals with a previous cancer diagnosis were more likely to get screened. High-risk drinkers and smokers were less inclined towards screening. Dietary habits also influenced screening decisions. Notably, participants with healthier eating behaviors, indicated by factors such as regular breakfasts and fewer meals out, were more likely to undergo screening. Additionally, nutrient intake analysis revealed that those who had undergone screening consumed greater quantities of most nutrients, bar a few exceptions. For individuals aged 50-64, nutritional assessment indicators highlighted a higher mean adequacy ratio (MAR) and index of nutritional quality (INQ) value among those who participated in screening, suggesting better nutritional quality. This study elucidates the complex socio-ecological and nutritional landscape influencing cancer screening decisions. The results underscore the importance of a holistic approach, emphasizing lifestyle, dietary habits, and socio-economic considerations. It provides a roadmap for policymakers to craft more inclusive screening programs, ensuring equal access and promoting early detection.

Comparison of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) Risk and Nutritional Status According to Menopause Age and the Impact of Socioeconomic Status on MetS Prevalence in Postmenopausal Women: A Cross-Sectional Study Based on the 8th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES)

The increased life expectancy and the occurrence of premature menopause prolong the mean postmenopausal phase in women's lifespans. Although the roles of poor socioeconomic status (SES), anthropometric characteristics, and nutritional status in premature menopause and the health of postmenopausal women are well understood, the differences in nutritional status and metabolic syndrome (MetS) prevalence in postmenopausal women depending on their menopause age are less explored. Furthermore, the association between SES and MetS risk in postmenopausal women is not studied. Thus, this study aimed to compare distinct nutritional status and MetS risk between women with premature menopause and natural menopause. Additionally, the association among SES, health-related lifestyle behaviors (HLBs), and MetS risk in postmenopausal women was studied. This study included 31,799 postmenopausal women from the 8th National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES). The relationship between disease prevalence and nutrient intake of the subjects was analyzed using analysis of variance (GLM), and Scheffé test was performed. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association among SES, HLBs, and MetS as well as premature menopause. Women with premature menopause showed poor SES, anthropometric characteristics, and HLBs compared with women with natural menopause. Additionally, premature menopausal women had markedly lower intakes of protein, polyunsaturated fatty acid, n-3 fatty acid, and β-carotene, but higher intakes of energy, carbohydrate, saturated fatty acid, and sugar than women with natural menopause (p < 0.0001). Premature menopausal women showed significantly higher MetS prevalence by having hypertriglyceridemia (p < 0.0001), hypertension (p = 0.0145), and reduced HDL cholesterol levels (p < 0.0001) relative to natural menopausal women. Furthermore, our findings indicate a substantial link among SES, HLBs, and the risk of premature menopause. In postmenopausal women, deteriorating SES and HLBs appear to influence the prevalence of MetS. Notably, our study reveals that higher intakes of protein, calcium, phosphate, and iron are correlated with a lower risk of developing MetS. These observations suggest that proactive nutritional education for premature menopausal women is necessary to improve MetS risk and their nutritional status. Also, SES-dependent interventions regarding nutrition and HLBs in postmenopausal women will be significant to lower MetS risk, MetS-derived chronic disease, and mortality in postmenopausal women.

Investigating the Influence of Heavy Metals and Environmental Factors on Metabolic Syndrome Risk Based on Nutrient Intake: Machine Learning Analysis of Data from the Eighth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES)

This study delves into the complex interrelations among nutrient intake, environmental exposures (particularly to heavy metals), and metabolic syndrome. Utilizing data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), machine learning techniques were applied to analyze associations in a cohort of 5719 participants, categorized into four distinct nutrient intake phenotypes. Our findings reveal that different nutrient intake patterns are associated with varying levels of heavy metal exposure and metabolic health outcomes. Key findings include significant variations in metal levels (Pb, Hg, Cd, Ni) across the clusters, with certain clusters showing heightened levels of specific metals. These variations were associated with distinct metabolic health profiles, including differences in obesity, diabetes prevalence, hypertension, and cholesterol levels. Notably, Cluster 3, characterized by high-energy and nutrient-rich diets, showed the highest levels of Pb and Hg exposure and had the most concerning metabolic health indicators. Moreover, the study highlights the significant impact of lifestyle habits, such as smoking and eating out, on nutrient intake phenotypes and associated health risks. Physical activity emerged as a critical factor, with its absence linked to imbalanced nutrient intake in certain clusters. In conclusion, our research underscores the intricate connections among diet, environmental factors, and metabolic health. The findings emphasize the need for tailored health interventions and policies that consider these complex interplays, potentially informing future strategies to combat metabolic syndrome and related health issues.

Nutritional intake, environmental factors, and their impact on myopia prevalence in Korean children aged 5-12 years

BACKGROUND

Myopia is a complex condition influenced by numerous factors, including genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices. Although evidence indicates that certain dietary factors may influence the development of myopia, this relationship is still not completely understood and is a topic of ongoing research.

METHODS

This study analyzed the relationship between dietary habits, environmental factors, and the prevalence of myopia in a sample of 24,345 children aged 5-12 years from the seventh Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES VII). The average daily intake of dietary nutrients associated with the refractive error status of the participants was analyzed using analysis of variance (GLM) and the Scheffe method for post-hoc comparison. Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted between the participant's refractive error status and daily dietary nutrient intake, while taking into consideration the age, sex, BMI, parental myopia, and near-work hours.

RESULTS

The risk of myopia increased with age, especially notable between ages 11 and 12, and was higher in children with both parents having myopia. Dietary factors played a crucial role; children with myopia had significantly lower intake of fat, omega-3 fatty acids, and retinol but higher intake of other nutrients compared to emmetropic and hyperopic counterparts. High consumption of carbohydrates, protein, phosphorus, iron, potassium, and sodium was associated with increased myopia risk. High sodium intake was particularly associated with a 2.05-fold increased myopia risk.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the significant role of diet and lifestyle choices in the development of myopia in children. Our findings suggest the importance of considering these specific factors in the management and prevention strategies for myopia, underscoring the need for targeted interventions in children's health and vision care.

Impact of Dietary Nutrients on the Prevalence of Dry Eye Syndrome among Korean Women Aged 40 and above: Evidence from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

This study aimed to assess the prevalence of dry eye syndrome among Korean women aged 40 and above and explore the correlation between the syndrome and daily dietary nutrient intake. We analyzed data from 92,888 female participants (mean age: 63.35 ± 8.86 years) from the 8th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES 2019). Dietary intake was evaluated using a personalized 24 h recall method for 21 nutrients, including macronutrients, macro- and micro-minerals, and both water- and fat-soluble vitamins. Associations between nutrient intake and dry eye syndrome were determined using odds ratios from multivariate logistic regression. We found a 7.7% prevalence of dry eye syndrome in the population studied. Intake of dietary fiber (adjusted OR: 0.72), protein (adjusted OR: 0.84), omega-3 fatty acids (adjusted OR: 0.90), water (adjusted OR: 0.76), calcium (adjusted OR: 0.82), phosphate (adjusted OR: 0.87), potassium (adjusted OR: 0.88), magnesium (adjusted OR: 0.87), vitamin A (adjusted OR: 0.78), vitamin C (adjusted OR: 0.73), and vitamin E (adjusted OR: 0.86) was inversely associated with dry eye syndrome prevalence (p < 0.0001 for all). Conversely, a higher intake of carbohydrates (adjusted OR: 1.23), sugar (adjusted OR: 1.30), fat (adjusted OR: 1.25), cholesterol (adjusted OR: 1.32), sodium (adjusted OR: 1.18), iron (adjusted OR: 1.28), and zinc (adjusted OR: 1.26) correlated with an increased risk (p < 0.0001 for all). No significant associations were found between the prevalence of dry eye syndrome and the intake of omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin D. Our study identified significant associations between specific dietary nutrients and the risk of dry eye syndrome among Korean women aged 40 and above. These findings suggest that dietary choices could influence the likelihood of developing dry eye syndrome, indicating a potential role for dietary intervention in its management. However, it is important to note that these observations are preliminary, and further research is necessary to confirm these relationships and explore their implications for dietary recommendations in dry eye syndrome prevention and management.

Aqueous extract of Laurus nobilis leaf accelerates the alcohol metabolism and prevents liver damage in single-ethanol binge rats

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Excessive alcohol consumption has harmful health effects, including alcohol hangovers and alcohol-related liver disease. Therefore, methods to accelerate the alcohol metabolism are needed. Laurus nobilis is a spice, flavoring agent, and traditional herbal medicine against various diseases. This study examined whether the standardized aqueous extract of L. nobilis leaves (LN) accelerates the alcohol metabolism and protects against liver damage in single-ethanol binge Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats.

MATERIALS/METHODS

LN was administered orally to SD rats 1 h before ethanol administration (3 g/kg body weight [BW]) at 100 and 300 mg/kg BW. Blood samples were collected 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 h after ethanol administration. The livers were excised 1 h after ethanol administration to determine the hepatic enzyme activity. The alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities in the liver tissue were measured.

RESULTS

LN decreased the serum ethanol and acetaldehyde levels in ethanol-administered rats. LN increased the hepatic ADH and ALDH activities but decreased the alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase activities in the ethanol-administered rats. In addition, LN inhibited lipid peroxidation and increased the activities of SOD and GPx.

CONCLUSIONS

LN modulates the mediators of various etiological effects of excessive alcohol consumption and enhances the alcohol metabolism and antioxidant activity, making it a potential candidate for hangover treatments.

Imaging findings of granular cell tumours of the head and neck

AIM

To review the imaging characteristics of granular cell tumours in the head and neck and assess their associations with pathological findings.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eleven patients (10 [91%] women, mean age 43 years) with histopathologically confirmed granular cell tumours were included in this study. Preoperative imaging studies were performed, including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or ultrasound. The location of the tumours, their imaging features, and histopathological findings were analysed.

RESULTS

Among the 11 granular cell tumours, four (36%), three (27%), and two (18%) tumours were found in the submucosal layer, subcutaneous layer, and intramuscular area, respectively. On CT, all tumours exhibited homogeneous iso-attenuating enhancement compared with adjacent muscle, and nine out of the 11 tumours (81%) demonstrated well-defined margins. On T2-weighted imaging (T2WI), four out of five tumours (80%) demonstrated iso-signal intensity compared with adjacent muscles, and four tumours (80%) exhibited homogeneous signal intensity. The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values ranged from 0.68-0.81 × 10-3 mm2/s. Histopathological examination revealed densely packed tumour cells with variable amounts of fibrous stroma.

CONCLUSION

Granular cell tumours were characterised by well-defined and iso-signals on T2WI and low mean ADC values, and were predominantly located in the submucosal, subcutaneous, or intramuscular areas in middle-aged women. The characteristic locations, demographic characteristics, and imaging findings can help to differentiate granular cell tumours from other soft-tissue tumours in the head and neck.

Phase II study of a trastuzumab biosimilar in combination with paclitaxel for HER2-positive recurrent or metastatic urothelial carcinoma: KCSG GU18-18

BACKGROUND

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is a widely explored therapeutic target in solid tumors. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of trastuzumab-pkrb, a biosimilar of trastuzumab, in combination with paclitaxel, in HER2-positive recurrent or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We enrolled 27 patients; they were administered a loading dose of 8 mg/kg trastuzumab-pkrb on day 1, followed by 6 mg/kg and 175 mg/m2 paclitaxel on day 1 every 3 weeks, intravenously. All patients received six cycles of the combination treatment and continued to receive trastuzumab-pkrb maintenance until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or for up to 2 years. HER2 positivity (based on immunohistochemistry analysis) was determined according to the 2013 American Society of Clinical Oncology /College of American Pathologists HER2 testing guidelines. The primary endpoint was objective response rate (ORR); the secondary endpoints were overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and safety.

RESULTS

Twenty-six patients were evaluated via primary endpoint analysis. The ORR was 48.1% (1 complete and 12 partial responses) and the duration of response was 6.9 months [95% confidence interval (CI) 4.4-9.3 months]. With a median follow-up of 10.5 months, the median PFS and OS were 8.4 months (95% CI 6.2-8.8 months) and 13.5 months (95% CI 9.8 months-not reached), respectively. The most common treatment-related adverse event (TRAE) of any grade was peripheral neuropathy (88.9%). The most common grade 3/4 TRAEs were neutropenia (25.9%), thrombocytopenia (7.4%), and anemia (7.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

Trastuzumab-pkrb plus paclitaxel demonstrates promising efficacy with manageable toxicity profiles in patients with HER2-positive recurrent or metastatic UC.

Image findings of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis involving the skull base

AIM

To investigate computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of skull bases involving anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitides (AAV).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review was undertaken to identify an institutional historical cohort of 17 patients with confirmed AAV who underwent CT or MRI and had skull base involvement between 2002 and 2021. Two radiologists reviewed the extent and features of the lesions, bone changes, and other MRI findings.

RESULTS

A total of 17 patients (12 men; mean age ± standard deviation, 46.5 ± 17.1 years) were selected. AAV presented as infiltrative lesions with involvement at various sites. Most cases involved the paranasal sinuses (PNS; 88%, 15/17), nasopharynx (88%, 15/17), pterygopalatine fossa (82%, 14/17), and parapharyngeal space (82%, 14/17), frequently accompanied by mucosal irregularity of the PNS and nasopharynx (71%, 12/17). Central skull base and temporal bone involvement were seen in 53% (9/17) and 38% (6/16) of cases, respectively. On T1-weighted imaging (WI) and T2WI MRI, all lesions (15/15) showed predominant signal iso-intensity to grey matter.

CONCLUSIONS

Although radiological findings of AAV are non-specific and skull base involvement is less common, AAV may be considered if infiltrative lesions predominantly involving the PNS, nasopharynx, pterygopalatine fossa, and parapharyngeal space with combined bone changes of skull base are seen.

Antiphotoaging Effect of AGEs Blocker™ in UVB-Irradiated Cells and Skh:HR-1 Hairless Mice

Chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a major cause of photoaging. It involves extrinsic aging, wrinkle formation, and skin dehydration, and leads to excessive production of active oxygen that adversely affects the skin. Here, we investigated the antiphotoaging effect of AGEs Blocker^TM (AB), which comprises Korean mint aerial part and fig and goji berry fruits. Compared to its individual components, AB was more potent at increasing the expression of collagen and hyaluronic acid and decreasing MMP-1 expression in UVB-irradiated Hs68 fibroblasts and HaCaT keratinocytes. In Skh:HR-1 hairless mice exposed to 60 mJ/cm² UVB for 12 weeks, oral administration of 20 or 200 mg/kg/day AB restored skin moisture by improving UVB-induced erythema, skin moisture, and transepidermal water loss, and alleviated photoaging by improving UVB-induced elasticity and wrinkles. Moreover, AB upregulated the mRNA levels of hyaluronic acid synthase and collagen-related Col1a1, Col3a1, and Col4a1 genes, increasing hyaluronic acid and collagen expression, respectively. AB inhibited UVB-induced MAPK and AP-1 (c-fos) activation, resulting in significantly downregulated expression of MMP-1 and -9, which are responsible for collagen degradation. AB also stimulated the expression and activity of antioxidative enzymes and reduced lipid peroxidation. Thus, AB is a potential preventive and therapeutic agent for photoaging.

The Association between Self-Rated Health Status, Psychosocial Stress, Eating Behaviors, and Food Intake According to the Level of Sunlight Exposure in Korean Adults

Sunlight exposure has been reported to have various beneficial effects on human health. This study investigated the relationship between self-rated health status, psychosocial stress, eating behaviors, and food intake according to sunlight exposure in 948 adults. Sunlight exposure was classified as less than one hour, less than three hours, and greater than three hours. Of the participants, 49.2% had fewer than three hours of daily exposure to sunlight. Regarding participants exposed to sunlight for less than one hour, the largest response was that they did not engage in outdoor activities on weekdays or weekends, and the rate of being outdoors in the shade on sunny days was the highest in this group at 42.7%. Furthermore, the participants exposed to sunlight for less than one hour had a lower health response than the other two groups, and there were significantly more participants classified in the stress risk group. Regarding eating habits, those with less than an hour of exposure to sunlight frequently ate fried foods, fatty foods, added salt, and snacks, and had significantly lower total dietary scores or three regular meals. Additionally, their frequency of consumption of cereals, milk and dairy products, orange juice, and pork was also significantly lower than the other groups. Thus, it is necessary to provide sufficient guidelines for adequate sunlight exposure and food intake because participants with low sunlight exposure may have low vitamin D synthesis and insufficient food intake.

Augmented risk of ischemic stroke in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients without documented atrial fibrillation

Background

Ischemic stroke is a common complication in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) (1). Although atrial fibrillation (AF) is a well-established risk factor for ischemic stroke in HCM, the risk of ischemic stroke in patients with HCM without documented AF is less recognized (1, 2). This study aimed to determine the risk of ischemic stroke and identify its risk factors in patients with HCM without documented AF.

Methods

This nationwide population-based cohort study used the Korean National Health Insurance database. After excluding patients with a prior history of AF, thromboembolic events, cancer, or the use of anticoagulants, we identified 8,328 HCM patients without documented AF and 1:2 propensity score-matched 16,656 non-HCM controls. The clinical outcome was an incident ischemic stroke.

Results

During a mean follow-up of approximately 6 years, ischemic stroke occurred in 328/8,328 (3.9%) patients with HCM and 443/16,656 (2.7%) controls. Among individuals who developed ischemic stroke, the proportion of AF concomitantly detected accounted for 26.5% (87/328) and 5.8% (26/443) in the HCM and control groups, respectively. The overall incidence of ischemic stroke was 0.716/100 person-years in the HCM group, which was significantly higher than that in the control group (0.44/100 person-years) (HR 1.643; 95% CI, 1.424–1.895; P&lt;0.001, Figure 1). The subgroup analysis according to age, sex, and comorbidities (chronic heart failure, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and vascular disease) consistently demonstrated a higher risk of ischemic stroke in the HCM group (P for interaction &gt;0.05). In the HCM group, age ≥65 years (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 2.741; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.156–3.486; P&lt;0.001) and chronic heart failure (adjusted HR 1.748; 95% CI, 1.101–2.745; P=0.018) were independent risk factors for ischemic stroke. Overall incidence was 1.360/100 in patients with HCM aged ≥65 and 2.315/100 person-years years in those with chronic heart failure, respectively. Also, compared to controls aged &lt;65 years and without CHF, adjusted HR for ischemic stroke was 4.756 (95% CI 3.807–5.867) in patients with HCM aged ≥65 years and 2.539 (95% CI 1.638–3.936) in those with CHF, respectively (Figure 2).

Conclusions

Patients with HCM without documented AF are at a higher risk of ischemic stroke than the propensity score-matched general population. Age ≥65 years and chronic heart failure are two strong independent risk factors for ischemic stroke in this population.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors after acute myocardial infarction in type 2 diabetes patients: a population-based investigation from South Korea

Background

Whether the early use of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors has cardioprotective effects following acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is unknown.

Purpose

We aimed to evaluate the association between the early initiation of SGLT2 inhibitors and cardiac event rates in diabetes patients with AMI undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

Based on the National Health Insurance claims data in South Korea, patients aged 18 years or older who had undergone PCI for the diagnosis of AMI between 2014 and 2018 were analyzed. Patients treated with SGLT2 inhibitors or other glucose-lowering drugs were matched based on a propensity score. The primary endpoint was a composite of all-cause mortality and hospitalizations for heart failure (HF). Major adverse cardiac events (MACE; a composite of all-cause death, non-fatal MI, and ischemic stroke) were compared as the secondary endpoint.

Results

After 1:2 propensity score matching, a total of 26,814 patients were assigned to the SGLT2 inhibitors group (938 patients) and the no use of SGLT2 inhibitors group (1,876 patients), respectively. During a median follow-up of 2.1 years, compared to no use of SGLT2 inhibitors, the early use of SGLT2 inhibitors was associated with lower risks of both the primary endpoint (9.8% vs. 13.9%, adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 0.68, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.54 to 0.87, p=0.002) and secondary endpoint (9.1% vs. 11.6%, adjusted HR = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.60 to 0.99, p=0.04) (Figure 1). All-cause mortality and hospitalizations for HF were significantly lower in the early use of SLGT2 inhibitors group (adjusted HR = 0.55; 95% CI: 0.37 to 0.80; p=0.002; and HR = 0.74; 95% CI: 0.56 to 0.98; p=0.03, respectively). The incidence of non-fatal MI and ischemic stroke were not statistically different (Figure 2).

Conclusions

The early use of SGLT2 inhibitors in diabetes patients treated with PCI for AMI was associated with a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular events including all-cause mortality, hospitalizations for HF, and MACE. Our results suggest that the use of SGLT2 inhibitors could expand to the acute phase of AMI survivors with diabetes to reduce mortality and the subsequent development of congestive HF and ischemic events.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private hospital(s). Main funding source(s): This work was partly supported by the Research Institute of Medical Science, The Catholic University of Korea, Eunpyeong St. Mary's Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea.

Associations between Dietary Intake and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Scores by Repeated Measurements in School-Age Children

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common psychiatric disorder in school-age children and adolescents. However, the reported associations between ADHD and single nutrient intake are inconsistent. The aim of the study was to investigate the relationships between dietary intake changes and the prevalence of ADHD over time with repeat measurements using data from the Children Health and Environment Research (CHEER). To assess changes over time, we used data obtained in 2006 and 2008 (Phases ₁ and ₂). In this study, there were 2899 children aged 8 years or older in Phase ₁ and 2120 children aged 9 years or older in Phase ₂ from Korea, and the ADHD scores and dietary intake of 1733 children in Phases ₁ and ₂ were used in the final analysis. The YN group refers to children whose disease had improved in Phase ₂, and the NY group refers to children diagnosed with ADHD in Phase ₂. A notable within-group result was the increase in vegetable protein (p = 0.03) in the YN group. A between-group comparison showed that significant changes in nutrient intake could be confirmed most in the NY group, and the YN group tended to have a lower nutrient intake than the NY group. In the correlation of changes in nutrient intake and three subtypes (combined, AD, and HD), the total fat (p = 0.048) and animal protein (p = 0.099) showed a positive correlation with the prevalence of AD. Vegetable iron (p = 0.061 and p = 0.044, respectively), zinc (p = 0.022 and p = 0.007, respectively), vegetable protein (p = 0.074), and calcium (p = 0.057) had inhibitory effects on ADHD and its subtype. In conclusion, management of dietary and nutritional status should be considered to ameliorate ADHD and its subtypes in school-age children, and these relationships require further exploration in other settings.

Trends in body mass index changes among Korean adolescents between 2005-2020, including the COVID-19 pandemic period: a national representative survey of one million adolescents

OBJECTIVE

The impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on weight gain in children and adolescents remains unknown. We aimed to identify an estimated 15-year trend in mean body mass index (BMI) changes and prevalence of obesity and overweight among Korean adolescents from 2005 to 2020, including the period of the COVID-19 pandemic.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We analyzed data taken from a nationwide survey (Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey), between 2005 and 2020. Representative samples of one million Korean adolescents aged 13-18 years (n=1,057,885) were examined. The 15-year trends in mean BMI and proportion of obesity or overweight, and the changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic were analyzed.

RESULTS

The data of 1,057,885 Korean adolescents were analyzed (mean age: 14.98 years; females, 48.4%). The estimated weighted mean BMI was 20.5 kg/m2 [95% confidence interval (CI), 20.4-20.5] from 2005 to 2008 and 21.5 kg/m2 (95% CI, 21.4-21.6) in 2020 (during the COVID-19 pandemic). Although the 15-year trend of mean BMI gradually increased, the change in mean BMI before and during the pandemic significantly lessened (βdiff, -0.027; 95% CI, -0.028 to -0.026). The 15-year (2005-2020) trend changes in the prevalence of obesity and overweight were similar (obesity prevalence from 2005-2008, 3.2%; 95% CI, 3.1-3.3 vs. obesity prevalence in 2020, 8.6%; 95% CI, 8.2-9.0; βdiff, -0.309; 95% CI, -0.330 to -0.288).

CONCLUSIONS

The 15-year trend of overall mean BMI and obesity and overweight prevalence demonstrated a significant increase; however, its slope decreased during the pandemic. These landmark results suggest the need for the development of precise strategies to prevent pediatric obesity and overweight during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Temporal change in the diagnosis and treatment rates of osteoporosis: results from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

To compare the diagnosis andtreatment rates of osteoporosis and diabetes in Korea, a nationwide database was used. The results showed that although osteoporosis management is improving, it is still lower compared with that of diabetes; thus, further efforts are needed in this regard.

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to re-evaluate the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis from the KNHANES 2016-2017 and compare the temporal change of the rate with those of diabetes as another prevalent chronic disease in South Korea.

METHODS

The prevalence of osteoporosis in 2016 was estimated using the previous data classified by age groups (50-59,60-69, and ≥70years) and the 2016 Korean census data. The physician diagnosis and treatment rates of osteoporosis in adults aged ≥50years were estimated using the 2016-2017 KNHANES data. The physician diagnosis and treatment rates of diabetes were evaluated using the KNHANES 2008-2009 and 2016-2017 data.

RESULTS

The estimated physician diagnosisrate of osteoporosis increased from 29.9% in females and 5.8% in males in 2008-2009 to 62.8% in females and 22.8% in males in 2016-2017. The treatment rate for the estimated total number of patients with osteoporosis increased from 14.4% in females and 3.8% in males in 2008-2009 to 32.2% in females and 9.0% in males in 2016-2017. An increasing trend in the estimated treatment rateof physician-diagnosed osteoporosis patients was not observed (48.3% [2008-2009] vs 51.5% [2016-2017] in females; 42.6% [2008-2009] vs 42.2% [2016-2017] in males). The physician diagnosis and treatment rates of diabetes were considerably better and more stable than those of osteoporosis.

CONCLUSION

Osteoporosis management in South Korea is improving but is insufficient compared with diabetes management. More extensive efforts are needed to improve the diagnosis and treatment rates of osteoporosis.

Thin-Section MR Imaging for Carotid Cavernous Fistula

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Carotid-cavernous fistulas are abnormal vascular shunts that can cause various neurologic or orbital symptoms. The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of thin-section MR imaging for carotid cavernous fistula in patients with clinically suspected carotid cavernous fistula, and to identify possible imaging predictors of carotid cavernous fistula.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 98 patients who were clinically suspected of having carotid cavernous fistula (according to their symptoms and physical examinations) between January 2006 and September 2018 were included in this study. The patients underwent pretreatment thin-section MR imaging and DSA. Thin-section MR imaging consisted of 2D coronal T1- and T2WI with 3-mm thickness and 3D contrast-enhanced T1WI with 0.6 mm thickness. The diagnostic performance of thin-section MR imaging for carotid cavernous fistula was evaluated with the reference standard of DSA. Univariate logistic regression analysis was performed to determine possible imaging predictors of carotid cavernous fistula.

RESULTS

Among the 98 patients, DSA confirmed 38 as having carotid cavernous fistula. The overall accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of thin-section MR imaging were 88.8%, 97.4%, and 83.3%, respectively. Possible imaging predictors on thin-section MR imaging included abnormal contour of the cavernous sinus (OR: 21.7), internal signal void of the cavernous sinus (OR: 15.3), prominent venous drainage flow (OR: 54.0), and orbital/periorbital soft tissue swelling (OR: 40.4).

CONCLUSIONS

Thin-section MR imaging provides high diagnostic performance and possible imaging predictors of carotid cavernous fistula in patients with clinically suspected carotid cavernous fistula. Thin-section MR imaging protocols could help decide appropriate management plans for patients with clinically suspected carotid cavernous fistula.

Diagnostic Accuracy of MRI-Based Morphometric Parameters for Detecting Olfactory Nerve Dysfunction

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Although olfactory dysfunction is a common cranial nerve disorder, there are no simple objective morphometric criteria to assess olfactory dysfunction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of MR imaging morphometric parameters for detecting olfactory dysfunction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective study enrolled patients from those presenting with olfactory symptoms who underwent both an olfactory function test and MR imaging. Controls without olfactory dysfunction were recruited during the preoperative work-up for pituitary adenoma. Two independent neuroradiologists measured the olfactory bulb in 3D and assessed olfactory bulb concavity on MR imaging while blinded to the clinical data. Diagnostic performance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

RESULTS

Sixty-four patients and 34 controls were enrolled. The patients were significantly older than the controls (mean age, 57.8 ± 11.9 years versus 47.1 ± 12.1 years; P < .001). Before age adjustment, the olfactory bulb height was the only olfactory bulb parameter showing a significant difference between patients and controls (1.6 ± 0.3 mm versus 2.0 ± 0.3 mm, P < .001). After age adjustment, all parameters and olfactory bulb concavity showed significant intergroup differences, with the olfactory bulb height having the highest area under the curve (0.85). Olfactory bulb height was confirmed to be the only significant parameter showing a difference in the detection of olfactory dysfunction in 22 pairs after matching for age and sex (area under the curve = 0.87, P < .001). Intraclass correlation coefficients revealed moderate-to-excellent degrees of inter- and intrareader agreement.

CONCLUSIONS

MR imaging morphometric analysis can differentiate patients with olfactory dysfunction, with the olfactory bulb height having the highest diagnostic performance for detecting olfactory dysfunction irrespective of age.

Diagnostic performance of MRI to detect metastatic cervical lymph nodes in patients with thyroid cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the diagnosis of metastatic cervical lymph nodes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ovid-MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched up until 12 June 2018. Eleven articles were included in the qualitative systematic review and nine of the 11 in the quantitative analysis. Two radiologists independently performed data extraction and methodological quality assessment using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 tool. A qualitative systematic review and quantitative analysis were performed, followed by a meta-regression analysis to determine factors causing heterogeneity.

RESULTS

The pooled sensitivity and specificity in the diagnosis of metastatic cervical lymph nodes were 80% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 68-88%) and 85% (95% CI: 63-95%), respectively. The sensitivity and false-positive rate (correlation coefficient, 0.655) showed a positive correlation due to a threshold effect, which was responsible for heterogeneity across the studies, as indicated by a Q-test (p<0.01) and Higgins I² statistic (sensitivity, I²=90.11%; specificity, I²=92.49%). In the meta-regression analysis, fat-suppressed imaging, and the analysis method were significant factors influencing the heterogeneity in diagnostic performance.

CONCLUSIONS

MRI shows moderate diagnostic performance in the diagnosis of metastatic lymph nodes in patients with thyroid cancer in the neck. MRI may be an optional or complementary imaging method to ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) in thyroid cancer patients.

Preoperative evaluation of mammographic microcalcifications after neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer

AIM

To assess the predictive value of preoperative residual mammographic microcalcifications for residual tumours after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) for breast cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This single-centre retrospective study included breast cancer patients who underwent NAC and demonstrated suspicious microcalcifications within or near the tumour bed on mammography from June 2015 to August 2018. The residual microcalcifications and remnant lesion on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were correlated with histopathological findings of residual tumours and immunohistochemical markers.

RESULTS

A total of 96 patients were included. Ten patients achieved pathological complete response (pCR) and previous suspicious microcalcifications were associated with benign pathology in 10.4% (10/96) of the patients. In the remaining 86 patients who did not achieve pCR, 61.5% (59/96) of the residual microcalcifications were associated with invasive or in situ carcinoma and 28.1% (27/96) with benign pathology. Hormone receptor-positive (HR⁺) patients had the highest proportion of residual malignant microcalcifications compared to HR^- patients (48.9% versus 13.5%, respectively; p=0.019). MRI correlated better than residual microcalcifications on mammography in predicting residual tumour extent in all subtypes (ICC=0.709 versus 0.365). MRI also showed higher correlation with residual tumour size for the HR^-/HER2⁺ and HR^-/HER2^- subtype (ICC=0.925 and 0.876, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The extent of microcalcifications on mammography after NAC did not correlate with the extent of residual cancer in 38.5% of women. Regardless of the extent of microcalcifications, residual tumour extent on MRI after NAC and molecular subtype could be an accurate tool in evaluating residual cancer after NAC.

P643 A case of Fabry cardiomyopathy refractory to enzyme replacement therapy; the importance of early diagnosis and treatment in Fabry cardiomyopathy

A 56-year-old male was referred in order to identify Fabry disease after his older brother was confirmed as Fabry disease of cardiac variant type. He had been treated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCMP) five years ago. He didn’t have a history of hypertension. Blood pressure was 118/65 mmHg and pulse rate was 75 beats per minute. Serum creatinine was 1.07 mg/dl and estimated glomerular filtration rate was 75.2 ml/min. Cardiac enzymes including CK-MB and troponin-T were normal. There was no proteinuria on urinalysis. A 12-leads electrocardiogram revealed normal sinus rhythm with severe left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and strain pattern. Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) showed diffuse severe concentric hypertrophy of the left ventricle (LV) of an average ventricular wall thickness of 17 mm with normal systolic function (left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), 56%). TTE also revealed left ventricular outflow tract obstruction with systolic anterior motion of mitral valve. Right ventricle (RV) was also hypertrophied (RV free wall thickness, 7mm). Also, echocardiography revealed findings of diastolic dysfunction; left atrial enlargement, mitral inflow of a pseudo-normal pattern on pulsed wave Doppler image and an increased left ventricular filling pressure on tissue Doppler image (E/e’=20). Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed diffuse LV and RV hypertrophy and preserved LV systolic function with hypokinesia of mid-septal LV wall. Delayed hyper-enhancement (DHE) was not found within entire myocardium. A coronary CT angiography was performed because of regional wall motion abnormality but did not show any significant stenoses. He was confirmed as Fabry disease with the same genetic mutation as his brother. He did not present symptoms and signs of any other organs besides only myocardial hypertrophy. He received enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with intravenous agalsidase-beta every other week via outpatient department for 3 years. Recently, TTE was performed and showed diffuse severe concentric LVH of an average ventricular wall thickness increased to 19 mm despite regularly ERT. Focal intramural and subepicardial DHE was newly developed at LV basal lateral and septal wall on cardiac MRI. Neutralizing antibody against agalsidase -beta was not found in serum.

Fabry disease of cardiac variant type can be delayed in diagnostic aspect because of absence of typical symptoms and signs. Despite the absence of neutralizing antibody, ERT did not prevent both further myocardial hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis in patient with advanced myocardial hypertrophy caused by delayed diagnosis of Fabry disease. Suspicion of Fabry disease through detailed history taking including family history in patients with diffuse ventricular hypertrophy on an echocardiography can lead to early diagnosis and treatment and can result in improvement in a clinical outcome.

CT and MRI Findings of Glomangiopericytoma in the Head and Neck: Case Series Study and Systematic Review

Glomangiopericytoma is a rare sinonasal mesenchymal tumor of borderline or low malignant potential. We reviewed the CT and MR imaging findings of head and neck glomangiopericytoma via a retrospective case series study and systematic review. Our study revealed that glomangiopericytoma is a well-defined lobulated avidly enhancing soft-tissue mass with erosive bony remodeling that is most commonly found in the sinonasal cavity. Typically, it is hyperintense on T2-weighted images with vascular signal voids, has a high mean ADC value, and a wash-in and washout pattern on dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging. Although the CT findings are nonspecific, typical MR imaging findings, including those on the ADC map and dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging, may be helpful for differentiating glomangiopericytomas from other hypervascular tumors in the head and neck.

P785 Left ventricular geometry and myocardial contractility modulate impact of statins on prognosis in patients with acute heart failure

Funding Acknowledgements

N/A

Background/Introduction: The benefit of statins in patients with heart failure (HF) remains controversial and the mechanism of action is largely speculative. We investigated whether survival benefit with statins differs according to left ventricular (LV) geometry and myocardial contractility in acute HF patients.

Methods

We enrolled 1792 acute HF patients receiving statins and 2296 patients not receiving statins admitted from 2009 to 2016. The LV and right ventricular (RV) global longitudinal strain (GLS) was assessed as a measure of myocardial contractility. Patients were classified into 2 groups based on ischemic etiology of HF and further divided into 4 subgroups according to the median values of LV-GLS or RV-GLS. The primary outcome was 5-year all-cause mortality. The study protocol was approved by the ethics committee at each institute and complied with the Declaration of Helsinki. The need for written informed consent was waived.

Results

During the 5-year follow-up, 1740 (40.4%) patients died and they had more unfavorable baseline characteristics. Statin therapy was significantly associated with improved survival in overall patients and in both groups with and without ischemic etiology (all p &lt;0.001). Patients with concentric remodeling/hypertrophy and eccentric hypertrophy demonstrated survival benefit with statin therapy (P = 0.033, 0.004, and 0.008, respectively), while those with normal geometry did not (p = 0.123). In the non-ischemic HF group, survival benefit with statin therapy was confined to patients with low LV-GLS (p = 0.045) or those with low RV-GLS p = 0.003). On the contrary, in ischemic HF group, survival benefit with statin therapy was observed in all patients regardless of the values of LV-GLS or RV-GLS. Significant interactions were present between statin use and diabetes mellitus and IHD (p for interaction = 0.027 and 0.003, respectively) regarding mortality.

Conclusions

LV geometry and myocardial contractility may modulate the effects of statins in patients with acute HF. These echocardiographic measures can provide prognostic information to guide tailored statin treatment in this population. Our findings may also help to develop more well-designed prospective studies, in terms of a more homogenous study population, to confirm survival benefit with statin therapy.

Abstract P785 Figure. Multivariate Cox survival curves

Dried Yeast Extracts Curtails Pulmonary Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Tissue Destruction in a Model of Experimental Emphysema

Pulmonary emphysema is characterized by a loss of alveolar integrity due to prolonged cigarette smoking and inhaled irritants. Dried yeast extracts (YE) are employed as food additives, savory flavorings, or creation of umami taste sensations. Despite being rich in nutrition, their application as nutraceuticals and functional foods is not investigated much and little is known about the inhibition of pulmonary emphysema. This study examined whether YE ameliorated pulmonary emphysema in mice is evoked by cigarette smoke (CS) and ovalbumin (OVA). Mice were orally administrated with 25–100 mg/kg YE for 8 weeks. Alveolar epithelial A549 cells exposed to lipopolysaccharide or CS extracts (CSE) were supplemented with 10–100 µg/mL YE. Oral YE administration reduced bronchoalveolar lavage fluid leukocytosis in CS-/OVA-exposed mice. YE reduced induction of inflammatory mediators and MMP-12, and diminished reactive oxygen species production and emphysematous alterations in CS-challenged airways. The YE treatment blunted bax/bcl-2 ratio and activation of p53 and caspases in CS-exposed lungs. Apoptotic death was dampened in CSE-loaded YE-supplemented A549 cells. YE curtailed tissue levels of MMP-12 in inflammatory OVA-exposed lungs. YE abrogated the secretion of TNF-α and MCP-1 through blocking NF-κB signaling in endotoxin-loaded A549 cells. Thus, the antioxidant YE may therapeutically ameliorate oxidative stress and inflammatory tissue destruction in emphysematous diseases.

Detection of Local Recurrence in Patients with Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Using Voxel-Based Color Maps of Initial and Final Area under the Curve Values Derived from DCE-MRI

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Early detection of local recurrence is important to increase the chance of cure because local recurrence is the main cause of treatment failure in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. We evaluated the added value of voxel-based color maps of dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging compared with conventional MR imaging alone for detecting local recurrence of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively enrolled 63 consecutive patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma after definitive treatment and posttreatment surveillance MR imaging studies that demonstrated focal enhancement at the primary site. Three independent readers assessed conventional MR imaging and a pair of color maps of initial and final 90-second time-signal intensity areas under the curve from dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging. The sensitivities, specificities, and accuracies of both conventional MR imaging alone and combined interpretation of conventional and dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging were assessed using the clinicopathologic diagnosis as the criterion standard. κ statistics were used to evaluate interreader agreement.

RESULTS

There were 28 patients with subsequently documented local recurrence and 35 with posttreatment change. Adding dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging to conventional MR imaging significantly increased the diagnostic accuracies for detecting local recurrence (48%-54% versus 87%-91%; P < .05), with excellent interreader agreement (κ = 0.8; 95% CI, 0.67-0.92 to κ = 0.81; 95% CI, 0.69-0.93). By all 3 readers, the specificities were also significantly improved by adding dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging to conventional MR imaging (22%-43% versus 87%-91%; P < .001) without sacrificing the sensitivities (68%-82% versus 86%-89%; P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Adding voxel-based color maps of initial and final 90-second time-signal intensity areas under the curve from dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging to conventional MR imaging increases the diagnostic accuracy to detect local recurrence in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma by improving the specificity without sacrificing the sensitivity.

A Scoring System for Prediction of Cervical Lymph Node Metastasis in Patients with Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

An accurate and comprehensive assessment of lymph node metastasis in patients with head and neck squamous cell cancer is crucial in daily practice. This study constructed a predictive model with a risk scoring system based on CT characteristics of lymph nodes and tumors for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma to stratify the risk of lymph node metastasis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data included 476 cervical lymph nodes from 191 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma from a historical cohort. We analyzed preoperative CT images of lymph nodes, including diameter, ratio of long-to-short axis diameter, necrosis, conglomeration, infiltration to adjacent soft tissue, laterality and T-stage of the primary tumor. The reference standard comprised pathologic results. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to develop the risk scoring system. Internal validation was performed with 1000-iteration bootstrapping.

RESULTS

Shortest axial diameter, ratio of long-to-short axis diameter, necrosis, and T-stage were used to develop a 9-point risk scoring system. The risk of malignancy ranged from 7.3% to 99.8%, which was positively associated with increased scores. Areas under the curve of the risk scoring systems were 0.886 (95% CI, 0.881-0.920) and 0.879 (95% CI, 0.845-0.914) in internal validation. The Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test indicated that the risk scoring system was well-calibrated (P = .160).

CONCLUSIONS

We developed a comprehensive and simple risk scoring system using CT characteristics in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma to stratify the risk of lymph node metastasis. It could facilitate decision-making in daily practice.

The Diagnostic Value of Diffusion-Weighted Imaging in Differentiating Metastatic Lymph Nodes of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Accurate lymph node staging is crucial for proper treatment planning for metastasis in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

PURPOSE

Our aim was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of DWI for differentiating metastatic cervical lymph nodes from benign cervical lymph nodes in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and to identify optimal cutoff values for ADC.

DATA SOURCES

A computerized literature search was performed to identify relevant original articles in Ovid MEDLINE and EMBASE.

STUDY SELECTION

Studies evaluating the diagnostic performance of DWI for differentiating metastatic cervical lymph nodes from benign cervical lymph nodes were selected.

DATA ANALYSIS

Diagnostic meta-analysis was conducted with a bivariate random-effects model, and a hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic curve was obtained. Meta-regression was also performed.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Nine studies with 337 patients were included. In all studies, ADC values derived from metastatic lymph nodes were significantly lower than ADC values derived from benign lymph nodes. The median ADC cutoff value was 0.965 × 10^-3 mm²/s. The pooled sensitivity and specificity for the diagnostic performance of DWI in differentiating metastatic lymph nodes from benign lymph nodes were 90% (95% CI, 84%-94%) and 88% (95% CI, 80%-93%), respectively. In the meta-regression, sensitivity was significantly higher in the studies using a 3-mm slice thickness (93% [95% CI, 88%-98%]) than in studies using a slice thickness of >3 mm (86% [95% CI, 77%-95%], P < .01).

LIMITATIONS

A small number of studies were included in our meta-analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

DWI demonstrated high diagnostic performance for differentiating metastatic lymph nodes from benign lymph nodes in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, and the median ADC cutoff value was 0.965 × 10^-3 mm²/s. A 3-mm DWI slice thickness can provide a slight improvement in sensitivity.

Comparison of injectate spread and nerve involvement between retrolaminar and erector spinae plane blocks in the thoracic region: a cadaveric study

Although different injection locations for retrolaminar and erector spinae plane blocks have been described, the two procedures have a similar anatomical basis. In this cadaveric study we compared anatomical spread of dye in the thoracic region following these two procedures. Following randomisation, 10 retrolaminar blocks and 10 erector spinae plane blocks were performed on the left or right sides of 10 unembalmed cadavers. For each block, 20 ml of dye solution was injected at the T5 level. The back regions were dissected and the involvement of the thoracic spinal nerve was also investigated. Twenty blocks were successfully completed. A consistent vertical spread, with deep staining between the posterior surface of the vertebral laminae and the overlaying transversospinalis muscle was observed in all retrolaminar blocks. Moreover, most retrolaminar blocks were predominantly associated with fascial spreading in the intrinsic back muscles. With an erector spinae plane block, dye spread in a more lateral pattern than with retrolaminar block, and fascial spreading in the back muscles was also observed. The number of stained thoracic spinal nerves was greater with erector spinae plane blocks than with retrolaminar blocks; median 2.0 and 3.5, respectively. Regardless of technique, the main route of dye spread was through the superior costotransverse ligament to the ipsilateral paravertebral space. Although erector spinae plane blocks were associated with a slightly larger number of stained thoracic spinal nerves than retrolaminar blocks, both techniques were consistently associated with posterior spread of dye and with limited spread to the paravertebral space.

Oleuropein Curtails Pulmonary Inflammation and Tissue Destruction in Models of Experimental Asthma and Emphysema

Airway inflammation has been implicated in evoking progressive pulmonary disorders including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma as a result of exposure to inhaled irritants, characterized by airway fibrosis, mucus hypersecretion, and loss of alveolar integrity. The current study examined whether oleuropein, a phenylethanoid found in olive leaves, inhibited pulmonary inflammation in experimental models of interleukin (IL)-4-exposed bronchial BEAS-2B epithelial cells and ovalbumin (OVA)- or cigarette smoke (CS)-exposed BALB/c mice. Nontoxic oleuropein at 1-20 μM diminished eotaxin-1-mediated induction of α-smooth muscle actin and mucin 5AC in epithelial cells stimulated by IL-4 at the transcriptional levels. Oral supplementation of 10-20 mg/kg oleuropein reduced the airway influx of eosinophils and lymphocytes as well as IL-4 secretion in lung promoted by OVA inhalation or CS. In addition, oleuropein suppressed infiltration of macrophages and neutrophils through blocking OVA inhalation- and CS-promoted induction of ICAM-1, F4/80, CD68, and CD11b in airways. OVA-exposed pulmonary fibrosis was detected, while alveolar emphysema was evident in CS-exposed mouse lungs. In alveolar epithelial A549 cells exposed to CS extracts, oleuropein attenuated apoptotic cell loss. Collectively, oleuropein inhibited pulmonary inflammation leading to asthmatic fibrosis and alveolar emphysema driven by influx of inflammatory cells in airways exposed OVA or CS. Therefore, oleuropein may be a promising anti-inflammatory agent for treating asthma and COPD.

Urinary Pentosidine levels negatively associates with trabecular bone scores in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Pentosidine levels were higher in diabetic patients with vertebral fractures. Trabecular bone scores were negatively associated with pentosidine levels in diabetic patients only. Our results provide further evidence that AGEs are associated with the pathogenesis of bone fragility in patients with T2DM.

INTRODUCTION

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with fracture risk. Pentosidine, an advanced glycation end product (AGE), is associated with prevalent vertebral fractures (VFs) in patients with T2DM. Trabecular bone score (TBS) has been proposed as an index of bone microarchitecture associated with bone quality. This study evaluated the associations of urine pentosidine and TBS in T2DM and non-T2DM groups.

METHODS

A total of 112 T2DM patients and 62 non-T2DM subjects were enrolled. TBS was calculated using TBS insight® software (version 2.1). Pentosidine levels were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography method. We compared the BMD, TBS, and pentosidine levels between those with and without VFs with or without adjustment for age and sex. The association with TBS, lumbar spine BMD, and pentosidine levels were also evaluated in both T2DM and non-T2DM groups.

RESULTS

Pentosidine levels were significantly higher in T2DM patients with VFs. TBSs were significantly lower in patients with T2DM and VFs. In non-diabetic patients, there were no significant differences in TBS and pentosidine levels for those with and without VFs after adjustment for age and sex. Pentosidine levels were negatively associated with TBS only in patients with T2DM. In multivariate stepwise regression analysis, pentosidine levels were significantly associated with TBS in patients with T2DM.

CONCLUSIONS

TBS and pentosidine could be used as a method to assess bone quality to identify T2DM patients at risk of VFs. Our results also provide further evidence that AGEs are associated with the pathogenesis of bone fragility in patients with T2DM.

Local myogenic pulp-derived cell injection enhances craniofacial muscle regeneration in vivo

OBJECTIVES

To enhance myogenic differentiation in pulp cells isolated from extracted premolars by epigenetic modification using a DNA demethylation agent, 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-Aza), and to evaluate the potent stimulatory effect of 5-Aza-treated pulp cell injection for craniofacial muscle regeneration in vivo.

SETTING AND SAMPLE POPULATION

Pulp cells were isolated from premolars extracted for orthodontic purposes from four adults (age range, 18-22.1 years).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Levels of myogenic differentiation and functional contraction response in vitro were compared between pulp cells with or without pre-treatment of 5-Aza. Changes in muscle regeneration in response to green fluorescent protein (GFP)-labelled myogenic pulp cell injection in vivo were evaluated using a cardiotoxin (CTX)-induced muscle injury model of the gastrocnemius as well as the masseter muscle in mice.

RESULTS

Pre-treatment of 5-Aza in pulp cells stimulated myotube formation, myogenic differentiation in terms of desmin and myogenin expression, and the level of collagen gel contraction. The local injection of 5-Aza pre-treated myogenic pulp cells was engrafted into the host tissue and indicated signs of enhanced muscle regeneration in both the gastrocnemius and the masseter muscles.

CONCLUSION

The epigenetic modification of pulp cells from extracted premolars and the local injection of myogenic pulp cells may stimulate craniofacial muscles regeneration in vivo.

α-Asarone blocks 7β-hydroxycholesterol-exposed macrophage injury through blocking elF2α phosphorylation and prompting beclin-1-dependent autophagy

Macrophage apoptosis is salient in advanced atherosclerotic lesions and is induced by several stimuli including endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. This study examined that a-asarone present in purple perilla abrogated macrophage injury caused by oxysterols via ER stress- and autophagy-mediated mechanisms. Nontoxic a-asarone at 1-20 M attenuated 7β-hydroxycholesterol-induced activation of eukaryotic initiation factor 2a in macrophages leading to C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) expression and apoptosis due to sustained ER stress. The a-asarone treatment increased the formation of autophagolysosomes localizing in perinuclear regions of 7β-hydroxycholesterol-exposed macrophages. Consistently, this compound promoted the induction of the key autophagic proteins of beclin-1, vacuolar protein sorting 34 and p150 responsible for vesicle nucleation, and prompted the conversion of microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3 and the induction of p62, neighbor of BRCA1 and autophagy-related (Atg) 12-Atg5-Atg16L conjugate involved in phagophore expansion and autophagosome formation. Additionally, a-asarone increased ER phosphorylation of bcl-2 facilitating beclin-1 entry to autophagic process. Furthermore, the deletion of Atg5 or beclin-1 gene enhanced apoptotic CHOP induction. Collectively, a-asarone-stimulated autophagy may be potential multi-targeted therapeutic avenues in treating ER stress-associated macrophage apoptosis.

Abstract P6-08-09: Incidence and risk factors for congestive heart failure in early breast cancer received anthracycline and/or trastuzumab; big-data analysis of Korean health insurance review and assessment service database

Background: Anthracycline (AC) and/or trastuzumab (T) are the most commonly used for neo-/adjuvant therapy for early breast cancer. However, use of those regimens are limited owing to congestive heart failure (CHF). Although reported incidence from pivotal trials is very low and acceptable, no big data-based population study has not been conducted in Koreans yet. The aim of this study was to analyze the incidence, time to occurrence, and risk factors for CHF in patients with early breast cancer, who were treated with AC and/or T therapy, in Korea.

Methods: We used the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service database and included women with no prior history of CHF who were aged &gt;19 years and diagnosed as having early breast cancer between 2007 and 2016. Only patients who had received breast cancer surgery and AC and/or T therapy were included. Patients with metastatic cancer codes were excluded.

Result: In total, 86,086 patients were included for this analysis. The incidence and median time to occurrence of CHF according to chemotherapy type were, 3.27% and 683.5 days in the AC only group, 6.39% and 374 days in the AC followed by T group, and 4.43% and 286 days in the T with or without non-AC group, respectively.

The multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that the adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for CHF was increased with older age; in those aged ≥65 years versus &lt;50 years (HR, 2.79; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.50–3.12). The HR in the AC followed by T group was significantly higher than that in the AC only group (HR, 2.21; 95% CI, 2.05-2.37). The T with or without non-AC group also showed a significantly higher HR than the AC only group (HR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.37-2.04). CCI scores of ≥2 were significant predictors of CHF; score 2 versus 0 (HR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.18-1.45), and score ≥3 versus 0 (HR, 1.87; 95% CI, 1.69-2.06). In addition, preexisting medical conditions were significant predictors for CHF: hypertension (HR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.45-1.72), diabetes (HR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.07-1.28), and ischemic heart disease (HR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.45-1.76).

Conclusion: This is the first big data-based population study in Korea on the development of CHF after treatment with AC and/or T. The overall incidence of CHF was 3% to 6%, with a median time to occurrence of 1 to 2 years. Adjusted HR increased with older age, AC followed by T therapy, CCI scores ≥2, and preexisting conditions.

Table 1. Incidence and median time to occurrence of congestive heart failure according to chemotherapy typeChemotherapy typeTotalCHF event (%)Median time to occurenceAC only66,6992,182 (3.27%)683.5AC followed by T17,0621,090 (6.39%)374T ± non-AC2,325103 (4.43%)286

Table 2. Cox proportional hazards model for congestive heart failure, adjusted for age, chemotherapy type, and Charlson comorbidity index scoreVariableP-valueHR95% CIAge (ref &lt;50 years)   50-64 years&lt;0.00011.541.43-1.66≥65 years&lt;0.00012.792.50-3.12Chemotherapy type (ref AC only)   AC folloewed by T&lt;0.00012.212.05-2.37T ± non-AC&lt;0.00011.671.37-2.04Charlson comorbidity index score (ref 0)   10.12061.080.98-1.192&lt;0.00011.301.18-1.45≥3&lt;0.00011.871.69-2.06

Citation Format: Choi JY, Cho EY, Lee JW, Kim JW, Choi YJ, You JY, Bae SY, Jung SP, Cho KR, Park KH. Incidence and risk factors for congestive heart failure in early breast cancer received anthracycline and/or trastuzumab; big-data analysis of Korean health insurance review and assessment service database [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P6-08-09.

Reversibility of atrophic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia after Helicobacter pylori eradication - a prospective study for up to 10 years

BACKGROUND

Atrophic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia are premalignant conditions for gastric cancer. Their reversibility by Helicobacter pylori eradication remains controversial.

AIM

To evaluate the reversibility of atrophic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia by H. pylori eradication with long-term follow-up.

METHODS

598 subjects were prospectively enrolled and followed for up to 10 years. They were categorised as H. pylori-negative (n = 65), H. pylori non-eradicated (n = 91), and H. pylori-eradicated (n = 442). Histological assessment was performed for antrum and corpus by Sydney classification.

RESULTS

Histological follow-up was performed regularly at 1, 2, 3-4 and ≥5 years, with mean follow-up of 1.07 ± 0.21, 2.29 ± 0.83, 3.93 ± 1.02, and 6.45 ± 1.28 years, respectively. Atrophic gastritis in antrum and corpus gradually and significantly (both P < .05 for all timepoints) improved only in the H. pylori-eradicated group compared to that at baseline. Significant difference in atrophic gastritis between H. pylori-eradicated and H. pylori-negative groups disappeared from 1-year follow-up. Similarly, intestinal metaplasia in antrum and corpus improved significantly (both P < .05 for all timepoints) only in the H. pylori-eradicated group in comparison with that at baseline. Significant difference in intestinal metaplasia between H. pylori-eradicated and H. pylori-negative groups disappeared from ≥5 years of follow-up in the antrum and from 3 years of follow-up in the corpus.

CONCLUSION

H. pylori eradication may be a preventative strategy for intestinal-type gastric cancer by regression of atrophic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia.

Effect of an Arm Traction Device on Image Quality and Radiation Exposure during Neck CT: A Prospective Study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The image quality of neck CT is frequently disturbed by streak artifact from the shoulder girdles. Our aim was to determine the effects of an arm traction device on image quality and radiation exposure in neck CT.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with lymphoma with complete remission who were scheduled to undergo 2 consecutive follow-up neck CT scans for surveillance within a 1-year interval were enrolled in this prospective study. They underwent 2 consecutive neck CT scans (intervention protocol: patients with an arm traction device; standard protocol: no positioning optimization) on the same CT system. The primary outcome measures were image noise in the lower neck and dose-length product. Secondary outcomes were streak artifacts in the supraclavicular fossa, volume CT dose index, and the extent of the biacromial line shift.

RESULTS

Seventy-three patients were enrolled and underwent 2 consecutive CT scans with a mean interval of 155 days. In the intervention protocol, a mean noise reduction in the lower neck of 25.2%-28.5% (P < .001) was achieved, and a significant decrease in dose-length product (413 versus 397, P < .001) was observed. The intervention protocol significantly decreased streak artifacts (P < .001) and volume CT dose index (13.9 versus 13.4, P < .001) and could lower the biacromial line an average of 2.1 cm.

CONCLUSIONS

An arm traction device can improve image quality and reduce radiation exposure during neck CT. The device can be simply applied in cooperative patients with suspected lower neck lesions, and the approach offers distinct advantages over the conventional imaging protocol.

Phase I study of safety and pharmacokinetics of the anti-MUC16 antibody-drug conjugate DMUC5754A in patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer or unresectable pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND

MUC16 is a tumor-specific antigen overexpressed in ovarian (OC) and pancreatic (PC) cancers. The antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), DMUC5754A, contains the humanized anti-MUC16 monoclonal antibody conjugated to the microtubule-disrupting agent, monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This phase I study evaluated safety, pharmacokinetics (PK), and pharmacodynamics of DMUC5754A given every 3 weeks (Q3W, 0.3-3.2 mg/kg) or weekly (Q1W, 0.8-1.6 mg/kg) to patients with advanced recurrent platinum-resistant OC or unresectable PC. Biomarker studies were also undertaken.

RESULTS

Patients (66 OC, 11 PC) were treated with DMUC5754A (54 Q3W, 23 Q1W). Common related adverse events (AEs) in >20% of patients (all grades) over all dose levels were fatigue, peripheral neuropathy, nausea, decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, alopecia, and pyrexia in Q3W patents, and nausea, vomiting, anemia, fatigue, neutropenia, alopecia, decreased appetite, diarrhea, and hypomagnesemia in Q1W patients. Grade ≥3-related AE in ≥5% of patients included neutropenia (9%) and fatigue (7%) in Q3W patients, and neutropenia (17%), diarrhea (9%), and hyponatremia (9%) in Q1W patients. Plasma antibody-conjugated MMAE (acMMAE) and serum total antibody exhibited non-linear PK across tested doses. Minimal accumulation of acMMAE, total antibody, or unconjugated MMAE was observed. Confirmed responses (1 CR, 6 PRs) occurred in OC patients whose tumors were MUC16-positive by IHC (2+ or 3+). Two OC patients had unconfirmed PRs; six OC patients had stable disease lasting >6 months. For CA125, a cut-off of ≥70% reduction was more suitable for monitoring treatment response due to the binding and clearance of serum CA125 by MUC16 ADC. We identified circulating HE4 as a potential novel surrogate biomarker for monitoring treatment response of MUC16 ADC and other anti-MUC16 therapies in OC.

CONCLUSIONS

DMUC5754A has an acceptable safety profile and evidence of anti-tumor activity in patients with MUC16-expressing tumors. Objective responses were only observed in MUC16-high patients, although prospective validation is required.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER

NCT01335958.

Novel glutathione-containing dry-yeast extracts inhibit eosinophilia and mucus overproduction in a murine model of asthma

BACKGROUND/OBSECTIVE

Airway inflammation by eosinophils, neutrophils and alveolar macrophages is a characteristic feature of asthma that leads to pathological subepithelial thickening and remodeling. Our previous study showed that oxidative stress in airways resulted in eosinophilia and epithelial apoptosis. The current study investigated whether glutathione-containing dry yeast extract (dry-YE) ameliorated eosinophilia, goblet cell hyperplasia and mucus overproduction.

MATERIALS/METHOD

This study employed 2 µg/mL lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- or 20 ng/mL eotaxin-1-exposed human bronchial epithelial cells and ovalbumin (OVA)-challenged mice. Dry-YE employed in this study contained a significant amount of glutathione (140 mg in 100 g dry yeast).

RESULTS

Human bronchial epithelial cell eotaxin-1 and mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) were markedly induced by the endotoxin LPS, which was dose-dependently attenuated by nontoxic dry-YE at 10-50 µg/mL. Moreover, dry-YE inhibited the MUC5AC induction enhanced by eotaxin-1, indicating that eotaxin-1-mediated eosinophilia may prompt the MUC5AC induction. Oral supplementation with 10-100 mg/kg dry-YE inhibited inflammatory cell accumulation in airway subepithelial regions with a reduction of lung tissue level of intracellular adhesion molecule-1. In addition, ≥ 50 mg/kg dry-YE diminished the lung tissue levels of eotaxin-1, eosinophil major basic protein and MUC5AC in OVA-exposed mice. Alcian blue/periodic acid schiff staining revealed that the dry-YE supplementation inhibited goblet cell hyperplasia and mucus overproduction in the trachea and bronchiolar airways of OVA-challenged mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Oxidative stress may be involved in the induction of eotaxin-1 and MUC5AC by endotoxin episode and OVA challenge. Dry-YE effectively ameliorated oxidative stress-responsive epithelial eosinophilia and mucus-secreting goblet cell hyperplasia in cellular and murine models of asthma.

Giant Anisotropic Magnetocaloric Effect in Double-perovskite Gd2CoMnO6 Single Crystals

The magnetocaloric effect (MCE) is described by the change in temperature of a material by magnetic field variation and is a crucial subject in magnetism; it is motivated by the desire to enhance energy-efficient magnetic refrigeration for clean technology. Despite the recent discovery of the giant cryogenic MCE in double perovskites, the role of magnetic anisotropy has not yet been clearly discussed, because of the averaging effect of polycrystalline samples. Here, we investigated the anisotropic MCE in the single-crystal double perovskite Gd2CoMnO6. In addition to the ferromagnetic order of the Co2+ and Mn4+ moments, the large Gd3+ moments align below T Gd = 21 K, exhibiting an isotropic nature. Because of the intricate temperature development of magnetically hysteretic behaviour and metamagnetism, the change in magnetic entropy along the c-axis appears to be relatively small. On the contrary, the smaller but almost reversible magnetization perpendicular to the c-axis leads to a large MCE with a maximum entropy change of 25.4 J/kg·K. The anisotropic MCE generates a giant rotational MCE, estimated as 16.6 J/kg·K. Our results demonstrate the importance of magnetic anisotropy for understanding the MCE and reveal essential clues for exploring suitable magnetic refrigerant compounds aiming at magnetic functional applications.

Eucalyptol ameliorates Snail1/β-catenin-dependent diabetic disjunction of renal tubular epithelial cells and tubulointerstitial fibrosis

Renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis is an important event in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy. Under pathologic conditions, renal tubular epithelial cells undergo transition characterized by loss of cell-cell adhesion and increased cell migration. This study investigated that eucalyptol inhibited tubular epithelial cell disjunction and tubulointerstitial fibrosis stimulated by glucose. Human renal proximal tubular epithelial cells were incubated for up to 72 h in media containing 27.5 mM mannitol as osmotic controls or 33 mM glucose in the presence of 1-20 μM eucalyptol. Nontoxic eucalyptol inhibited glucose-induced expression of the mesenchymal markers of N-cadherin and α-smooth muscle actin, whereas the induction of E-cadherin was enhanced. Eucalyptol attenuated the induction of connective tissue growth factor and collagen IV by glucose, whereas the membrane type 1-matrix metalloproteinase expression was enhanced with reducing tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 expression. Oral administration of 10 mg/kg eucalyptol to db/db mice for 8 weeks blunted hyperglycemia and proteinuria. Eucalyptol reversed tissue levels of E-cadherin, N-cadherin and P-cadherin and the collagen fiber deposition in diabetic kidneys. Eucalyptol attenuated the induction of Snail1, β-catenin and integrin-linked kinase 1 (ILK1) in glucose-exposed tubular cells and diabetic kidneys, and the glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β expression was reversely enhanced. Glucose prompted TGF-β1 production in tubular cells, leading to induction of Snail1, β-catenin and ILK1, which was dampened by eucalyptol. Furthermore, the Snail1 gene deletion encumbered the β-catenin induction in glucose/eucalyptol-treated tubular cells accompanying enhanced GSK-3β expression. Therefore, eucalyptol may antagonize hyperglycemia-induced tubular epithelial derangement and tubulointerstitial fibrosis through blocking ILK1-dependent transcriptional interaction of Snail1/β-catenin.

Reduced metallic artefacts in 3 T knee MRI using fast spin-echo multi-point Dixon compared to fast spin-echo T2-weighted sequences

AIM

To compare multi-point Dixon magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and fast spin-echo (FSE) T2-weighted imaging (WI) with regard to the size of metallic artefacts when imaging the knee joint.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 42 patients who underwent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction and follow-up imaging with 3 T MRI using the multi-point Dixon technique was included in this retrospective study. The maximal distance of the image distortion area around the metallic artefact was measured (interference screw of femoral tunnel area) on sagittal images of both FSE T2WI (T2WI and fat-suppressed [FS] T2WI) and multi-point Dixon (water only image and in-phase image) sequences. The maximal distance of the image distortion were compared using paired t-tests across the image sequences (multi-point Dixon water only image versus FS T2WI and multi-point Dixon in-phase image versus T2WI).

RESULTS

The mean distance of the image distortion from metallic artefacts regardless of the image sequence ranged from 16.6 mm to 24.5 mm (Table 2). The mean distances measured by two readers on multi-point Dixon (water only image) sequences were significantly shorter than those in FS T2WI sequences (p<0.001). In contrast, the mean distances measured by two readers on multi-point Dixon (in-phase image) sequences did not differ from those of T2WI (p>0.05) sequences.

CONCLUSION

The water-only image of multi-point Dixon technique reduces the amount of metallic artefacts compared to that in FS FSE T2WI sequences; however, the metallic artefacts were not significantly different between in-phase images of multi-point Dixon and FSE T2WI.

Chrysin ameliorates podocyte injury and slit diaphragm protein loss via inhibition of the PERK-eIF2α-ATF-CHOP pathway in diabetic mice

Glomerular epithelial podocytes are highly specialized cells that play a crucial role in maintaining normal function of the glomerular filtration barrier via their foot processes. Chrysin (5,7-dihydroxyflavone) is a natural flavonoid found in propolis and mushrooms that has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer properties. This study aimed to evaluate the renoprotective effects of chrysin on podocyte apoptotic loss and slit diaphragm protein deficiency in high glucose-exposed podocytes and in db/db mouse kidneys. Exposure to high glucose (33 mmol/L) caused glomerular podocyte apoptosis in vitro, which was dose-dependently attenuated by nontoxic chrysin (1-20 μmol/L) through reduction of DNA fragmentation. Chrysin treatment dose-dependently restored the increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, and suppressed Apaf-1 induction and the elevated cytochrome c release in high glucose-exposed renal podocytes. In diabetic db/db mice, oral administration of chrysin (10 mg·kg^-1·d^-1, for 10 weeks) significantly attenuated proteinuria, and alleviated the abnormal alterations in glomerular ultrastructure, characterized by apoptotic podocytes and foot process effacement. In addition, this compound improved the induction of slit diaphragm proteins podocin/nephrin in the diabetic glomeruli. Exposure to high glucose elevated the unfolded protein response (UPR) to ER stress in renal podocytes, evidenced by up-regulation of PERK-eIF2α-ATF4-CHOP. Chrysin treatment blocked such ER stress responses pertinent to podocyte apoptosis and reduced synthesis of slit diaphragm proteins in vitro and in vivo. These observations demonstrate that targeting ER stress is an underlying mechanism of chrysin-mediated amelioration of diabetes-associated podocyte injury and dysfunction.

Dietary phlorizin enhances osteoblastogenic bone formation through enhancing β-catenin activity via GSK-3β inhibition in a model of senile osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is one of the most prevalent forms of age-related bone diseases. Increased bone loss with advancing age has become a grave public health concern. This study examined whether phlorizin and phloretin, dihydrochalcones in apple peels, inhibited senile osteoporosis through enhancing osteoblastogenic bone formation in cell-based and aged mouse models. Submicromolar phloretin and phlorizin markedly stimulated osteoblast differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells with increased transcription of Runx2 and osteocalcin. Senescence-accelerated resistant mouse strain prone-6 (SAMP6) mice were orally supplemented with 10 mg/kg phlorizin and phloretin daily for 12 weeks. Male senescence-accelerated resistant mouse strain R1 mice were employed as a nonosteoporotic age-matched control. Oral administration of ploretin and phorizin boosted bone mineralization in all the bones of femur, tibia and vertebra of SAMP6. In particular, phlorizin reduced serum RANKL/OPG ratio and diminished TRAP-positive osteoclasts in trabecular bones of SAMP6. Additionally, treating phlorizin to SAMP6 inhibited the osteoporotic resorption in distal femoral bones through up-regulating expression of BMP-2 and collagen-1 and decreasing production of matrix-degrading cathepsin K and MMP-9. Finally, phlorizin and phloretin antagonized GSK-3β induction and β-catenin phosphorylation in osteoblasts and aged mouse bones. Therefore, phlorizin and phloretin were potential therapeutic agents encumbering senile osteoporosis through promoting bone-forming osteoblastogenesis via modulation of GSK-3β/β-catenin-dependent signaling.

The Role of Core Needle Biopsy for Thyroid Nodules with Initially Indeterminate Results on Previous Fine-Needle Aspiration: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Sonography-guided fine-needle aspiration leads to relatively frequent cases of indeterminate cytology for the diagnosis of thyroid nodules.

PURPOSE

Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of core needle biopsy for the examination of thyroid nodules with initially indeterminate results on fine-needle aspiration.

DATA SOURCES

A computerized search of the MEDLINE and Embase databases was performed to identify relevant original articles.

STUDY SELECTION

Studies investigating the use of core needle biopsy for thyroid nodules with initially indeterminate results on previous fine-needle aspiration were eligible for inclusion.

DATA ANALYSIS

The pooled proportions for nondiagnostic results, inconclusive results, malignancy on core needle biopsy, the ability of core needle biopsy to diagnose malignancy, and the related complications of the procedure were analyzed.

DATA SYNTHESIS

The meta-analytic pooling was based on a random-effects model. Nine eligible studies, involving 2240 patients with 2245 thyroid nodules, were included. The pooled proportion for nondiagnostic results was 1.8% (95% CI, 0.4%-3.2%), and the pooled proportion for inconclusive results was 25.1% (95% CI, 15.4%-34.9%). The pooled proportion for malignancy was 18.9% (95% CI, 8.4%-29.5%). With regard to the diagnostic performance for malignancy, the sensitivity of core needle biopsy varied, ranging from 44.7% to 85.0%, but the specificity was 100% in all cases. No major complications of core needle biopsy were observed.

LIMITATIONS

The relatively small number of included studies and retrospective nature were limitations.

CONCLUSIONS

Core needle biopsy has low nondiagnostic result rates and high specificity for the diagnosis of malignancy. It is a safe diagnostic technique with a higher diagnostic yield, especially when molecular testing is not available or fine-needle aspiration did not yield enough cells for molecular testing.

Ethanol Ablation of Ranulas: Short-Term Follow-Up Results and Clinicoradiologic Factors for Successful Outcome

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Surgical excision of an affected sublingual gland for treatment of a ranula can carry a potential of a nerve damage or postoperative complications. However, there have been little studies about effective minimally invasive therapeutic method, yet. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ethanol ablation of ranulas and the clinicoradiologic factors that can predict outcome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study evaluated 23 patients with ranulas treated by percutaneous ethanol ablation. Treatment outcome was assessed in 20 patients followed for at least 6 months. The duration of symptoms before ethanol ablation, pretreatment volume, and parapharyngeal extension on sonography and/or CT were correlated with the outcome. The Mann-Whitney U test and Fisher exact test were used for comparison of the factors according to the outcome.

RESULTS

The study evaluated 14 males and 9 females with a median age of 26 years (range, 3-41 years). Among 20 patients who were followed for at least 6 months (median, 20 months; range, 6-73 months), 9 patients (45%) demonstrated complete disappearance of the ranulas and 11 (55%) showed an incomplete response. When the patients were divided according to the duration of symptoms before ethanol ablation, the complete response rate was significantly higher in patients with ≤12 months of symptoms (73%, 8/11) than that in others (11%, 1/9) (P = .010). Pretreatment volume and parapharyngeal extension were not significantly different between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Ethanol ablation is a safe and noninvasive treatment technique for ranulas with a significantly better outcome in patients with ≤12 months of symptoms. Therefore, it could be considered an alternative nonsurgical approach for ranulas with recent onset of symptoms.

Increased propionate concentration in Lactobacillus mucosae-fermented wet brewers grains and during in vitro rumen fermentation

AIMS

This study was conducted to isolate and identify propionate-producing bacteria that can be used as an inoculum in improving wet brewers grains and rumen fermentation via increasing propionate concentration.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A strain of Lactobacillus that exhibits high levels of propionate production was identified and characterized as Lactobacillus mucosae 521129 by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and phylogenetic analyses. Wet brewers grains were fermented through L. mucosae inoculation and resulted in an increase in propionate concentration. Fermented wet brewers grains were used in in vitro rumen fermentation and revealed that L. mucosae-fermented wet brewers grains produced more gas and had higher accumulations propionate and total volatile fatty acid (VFA) than the control. The fewest methanogen DNA copies were detected in L. mucosae-fermented wet brewers grains.

CONCLUSION

Identified L. mucosae improved the fermentation of wet brewers grains and the in vitro rumen fermentation via increasing propionate and total VFA concentrations.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The presented research provided the identification of L. mucosae 521129 as a propionate producer and was metabolically profiled. Furthermore, data present the putative application of this organism in improving the fermentation of wet brewers grains and in vitro rumen fermentation.

Silencing of translation initiation factor eIF3b promotes apoptosis in osteosarcoma cells

Objectives

Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 (eIF3) is a multi-subunit complex that plays a critical role in translation initiation. Expression levels of eIF3 subunits are elevated or decreased in various cancers, suggesting a role for eIF3 in tumorigenesis. Recent studies have shown that the expression of the eIF3b subunit is elevated in bladder and prostate cancer, and eIF3b silencing inhibited glioblastoma growth and induced cellular apoptosis. In this study, we investigated the role of eIF3b in the survival of osteosarcoma cells.

Methods

To investigate the effect of eIF3b on cell viability and apoptosis in osteosarcoma cells, we first examined the silencing effect of eIF3b in U2OS cells. Cell viability and apoptosis were examined by the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and Western blot, respectively. We also performed gene profiling to identify genes affected by eIF3b silencing. Finally, the effect of eIF3b on cell viability and apoptosis was confirmed in multiple osteosarcoma cell lines.

Results

eIF3b silencing decreased cell viability and induced apoptosis in U2OS cells, and by using gene profiling we discovered that eIF3b silencing also resulted in the upregulation of tumour necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 21 (TNFRSF21). We found that TNFRSF21 overexpression induced cell death in U2OS cells, and we confirmed that eIF3b silencing completely suppressed cell growth in multiple osteosarcoma cell lines. However, eIF3b silencing failed to suppress cell growth completely in normal fibroblast cells.

Conclusion

Our data led us to conclude that eIF3b may be required for osteosarcoma cell proliferation by regulating TNFRSF21 expression.

Cite this article: Y. J. Choi, Y. S. Lee, H. W. Lee, D. M. Shim, S. W. Seo. Silencing of translation initiation factor eIF3b promotes apoptosis in osteosarcoma cells. Bone Joint Res 2017;6:186–193. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.63.BJR-2016-0151.R2.