Digital coincidence counting with 4πβ(PPC)-γ for the standardization of 60Co

A 4πβ(PPC)-γ coincidence system has been made at KRISS based on a digital DAQ. 60Co sources were measured to verify the system. The maximum detection efficiency for beta particles was estimated to be 96.7 %. Massic activities for sample sources had 0.005 % of the sample variability error, which was well within the expanded standard uncertainty of 0.54 % (k = 2).

Perioperative outcomes of laparoscopic low anterior resection using ArtiSential® versus robotic approach in patients with rectal cancer: a propensity score matching analysis

BACKGROUND

Total mesorectal excision using conventional straight fixed devices may be technically difficult because of the narrow and concave pelvis. Several laparoscopic articulating tools have been introduced as an alternative to robotic systems. The aim of this study was to compare perioperative outcomes between laparoscopic low anterior resection using ArtiSential® and robot-assisted surgery for rectal cancer.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 682 patients who underwent laparoscopic or robotic low anterior resection  for rectal cancer from September 2018 to December 2021. Among them, 82 underwent laparoscopic surgery using ArtiSential® (group A) and 201 underwent robotic surgery (group B). A total of 73 [group A; 66.37 ± 11.62; group B 65.79 ± 11.34] patients were selected for each group using a propensity score matching analysis.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the baseline characteristics between group A and B. Mean operative time was longer in group B than A (163.5 ± 61.9 vs 250.1 ± 77.6 min, p < 0.001). Mean length of hospital stay was not significantly different between the two groups (6.2 ± 4.7 vs 6.7 ± 6.1 days, p = 0.617). Postoperative complications, reoperation, and readmission within 30 days after surgery were similar between the two groups. Pathological findings revealed that the circumferential resection margins were above 10 mm in both groups (11.00 ± 7.47 vs 10.17 ± 6.25 mm, p = 0.960). At least 12 lymph nodes were sufficiently harvested, with no significant difference in the number harvested between the groups (20.5 ± 9.9 vs 19.7 ± 7.3, p = 0.753).

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic low anterior resection using ArtiSential® can achieve acceptable clinical and oncologic outcomes. ArtiSential®, a multi-joint and articulating device, may serve a feasible alternative approach to robotic surgery in rectal cancer.

Biodegradation of petroleum by bacteria isolated from fishes of Indian Ocean

In this study, oil degrading bacteria discovered from fish living near the oil ports at Karachi in Pakistan were characterized. The bacteria isolated from skin, gills, and gut in fish could consume crude oil as a source of carbon and energy. Total 36 isolates were tested using Nutrient Agar (NA) and MSA media with different crude oil concentrations (0.2%, 0.5%, 0.7%, 1%, 2%, and 5%) and 4 out of 36 isolates (two Gram positive and two Gram negative bacteria) were selected for further identification. 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that the isolates are related to Bacillus velezensis, Bacillus flexus, Pseudomonas brenneri and Pseudomonas azotoforman. Oil degrading potential of these bacteria was characterized by GC-MS analysis of degradation of oil components in crude oil as well as engine oil. We found that one (2, 6, 10, 14-Tetramethylpentadecane) out of 42 components in the crude oil was fully eliminated and the other oil components were reduced. In addition, 26 out of 42 oil components in the engine oil, were fully eliminated and the rest were amended. Taken together, these studies identify that B. velezensis, B. flexus, P. brenneri and P. azotoforman have high oil degrading potential, which may be useful for degradation of oil pollutants and other commercial applications.

Associations of various blood pressure parameters with functional outcomes after endovascular thrombectomy in acute ischaemic stroke

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

High blood pressure (BP) at presentation is associated with poor outcomes in acute ischaemic stroke, but serial BP measurements may better delineate the clinical implications of BP. The aim was to investigate the association between various BP parameters and functional outcomes in acute ischaemic stroke patients treated with endovascular thrombectomy (EVT).

METHODS

This study reports a retrospective analysis of a prospective registry of a comprehensive stroke centre. Patients treated with EVT due to large vessel occlusion in the anterior circulation were enrolled. BP was measured hourly during the first 24 h after admission. Associations of various BP parameters, including BP variability, with functional outcomes at 3 months, including good outcomes (modified Rankin Scale score of 0-2), were analysed.

RESULTS

Of the 378 enrolled patients (mean age 70 ± 11 years, male 54.2%), 313 (82.8%) achieved successful reperfusion after EVT, and 149 (39.4%) had good outcomes at 3 months. Higher mean systolic BP [each 10 mmHg increase, odds ratio 0.82 (0.69-0.97)] and higher systolic successive variation (SV) [each 10% increase, odds ratio 0.37 (0.18-0.76)] were associated with a reduced likelihood of achieving good outcomes. In addition, reperfusion status after EVT moderated the influence of higher systolic SV on good outcomes (P_int  = 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The results showed that a higher mean systolic BP and systolic SV during the first 24 h of EVT reduced the likelihood of good outcomes at 3 months. The effects of these parameters on outcomes are more substantial amongst patients with successful reperfusion after EVT, suggesting that different BP control strategies should be employed according to reperfusion status.

C3d-binding Donor-specific HLA Antibody Is Associated With a High Risk of Antibody-mediated Rejection and Graft Loss in Stable Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Single-center Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

One risk factor for antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) and poor outcome after kidney transplantation is donor-specific anti‒human leukocyte antigen (anti-HLA) antibodies (DSAs). In this study we sought to determine whether the presence of DSAs that bind complement component C3d could better predict ABMR and graft loss in stable kidney transplant recipients (KTRs).

METHODS

We included 220 stable KTRs in this study and screened them for DSAs from July 2013 to July 2016.

RESULTS

Of the 220 KTRs, DSAs were detected in 24 (10.9%). The incidence of ABMR was 3.6% (8 of 220) overall, and C3d-DSA‒positive KTRs had a significantly higher incidence than SA-DSA‒positive KTRs (63.3% vs 38.9%, P = .03). Most C3d-binding DSAs were anti-HLA class II antibodies (11 of 13, 84.6%). Class II C3d-binding DSA was also significantly associated with graft failure on multivariate analysis, as were ABMR, chronic ABMR, and high serum creatinine. Class II C3d-binding DSA was also significantly associated with lower graft survival after ABMR.

CONCLUSION

C3d-binding DSA, especially class II, was significantly associated with the risk of ABMR and graft loss in stable KTRs. We suggest that monitoring of stable KTRs for C3d-binding DSA, followed by biopsy, could aid in early recognition of ABMR and prevention of graft loss.

Sectioned images and surface models of a cadaver for understanding the free vascularised anterior rib flap

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study is to describe the vascularised anterior rib flap on sectioned images and surface models using Visible Korean for medical education and clinical training in the field of mandibular reconstructive surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Serially sectioned images of the thorax were obtained from a cadaver. Significant structures in the sectioned images were outlined and stacked to create a surface model.

RESULTS

The PDF file (8.45 MB) of the assembled models can be downloaded for free from our website (http://vkh.ajou.ac.kr/Products/PDF/Vascularized_anterior_rib_flap.zip). In this file, important anatomical structures related to the vascularised anterior rib flap can be examined in the sectioned images. All surface models and stereoscopic structures of the vascularised anterior rib flap are expressed in real time.

CONCLUSIONS

We hope that these state-of-the-art sectioned images, outlined images, and surface models will help students and trainees gain a better understanding of the anatomy of the vascularised anterior rib flap.

Long-term outcomes of locally or radically resected T1 colorectal cancer

AIM

Little is known about the long-term outcome of T1 colorectal cancer (CRC) following curative resection. The present study addressed the long-term outcome of locally or radically resected T1 CRCs.

METHOD

A total of 430 patients with T1 CRC who underwent local or radical resection were considered. Unfavourable histological factors were defined as positive resection margin, deep submucosal invasion, vascular invasion, Grade 3 and budding. The patients were classified as low-risk (unfavourable histological factor negative, n = 65) or high-risk (unfavourable histological factor positive, n = 365).

RESULTS

Over a median follow-up of 78.4 months, disease recurred in 16 (3.7%) patients in the high-risk group, and no recurrence in the low-risk group. Resection type and vascular invasion were significantly associated with recurrence. In the vascular invasion (+) high-risk group, both 5-year disease-free survival rate and 5-year overall survival rate were significantly associated with resection type (radical 94.6%, local 43.8%, P < 0.001, and radical 99.1%, local 66.7%, P < 0.001). In the vascular invasion (-) high-risk group, 5-year disease-free survival rate was also significantly associated with resection type (radical 98.9%, local 84.7%, P = 0.001). However, 5-year overall survival rate was not associated with resection type (radical 98.9%, local 95.2%, P = 0.816).

CONCLUSION

Local resection may be effective and oncologically safe in low-risk T1 CRC. Although additional surgery should be recommended for the locally resected high-risk T1 CRC cases, intensive surveillance without additional surgery and timely salvage operation may offer another treatment option, if vascular invasion is negative.

Lymph node size is not a reliable criterion for predicting nodal metastasis in rectal neuroendocrine tumours

AIM

The study was designed to assess the correlation between lymph node (LN) size and LN metastasis in patients with rectal neuroendocrine tumours (NETs).

METHOD

Forty patients who underwent curative resection with lymphadenectomy for a rectal NET between January 2007 and December 2012 were included. The short and long diameters of entire nodes were microscopically measured using a slide gauge.

RESULTS

In all, 1052 LNs were collected from the 40 patients, with 49 (4.7%) showing evidence of metastasis. Metastasis-positive LNs had significantly greater long and short diameters (P < 0.001) than metastasis-negative LNs. Of the 49 metastatic LNs, 29 (59.2%) were ≤ 5 mm in largest diameter. In five patients, the largest metastatic LN was only 2-3 mm in diameter. In clinically node-negative (cN0) patients, 18 (51.4%) patients had metastatic LNs (pN1).

CONCLUSION

The size of LNs containing metastasis varied widely, with some being very small. LN size alone is therefore not a sufficient predictor of tumour metastasis in rectal NETs. Radical surgery with lymphadenectomy should be considered for patients with rectal NETs with high risk factors for LN metastasis, even those without LN enlargement.

Incidence and Clinical Significance of Acute Reocclusion after Emergent Angioplasty or Stenting for Underlying Intracranial Stenosis in Patients with Acute Stroke

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

A major concern after emergent intracranial angioplasty in cases of acute stroke with underlying intracranial stenosis is the acute reocclusion of the treated arteries. This study reports the incidence and clinical outcomes of acute reocclusion of arteries following emergent intracranial angioplasty with or without stent placement for the management of patients with acute stroke with underlying intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-six patients with acute stroke received emergent intracranial angioplasty with or without stent placement for intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis and underwent follow-up head CTA. Acute reocclusion was defined as "hypoattenuation" within an arterial segment with discrete discontinuation of the arterial contrast column, both proximal and distal to the hypoattenuated lesion, on CTA performed before discharge. Angioplasty was defined as "suboptimal" if a residual stenosis of ≥50% was detected on the postprocedural angiography. Clinical and radiologic data of patients with and without reocclusion were compared.

RESULTS

Of the 46 patients, 29 and 17 underwent angioplasty with and without stent placement, respectively. Acute reocclusion was observed in 6 patients (13%) and was more frequent among those with suboptimal angioplasty than among those without it (71.4% versus 2.6%, P < .001). The relative risk of acute reocclusion in patients with suboptimal angioplasty was 27.857 (95% confidence interval, 3.806-203.911). Furthermore, a good outcome was significantly less frequent in patients with acute reocclusion than in those without it (16.7% versus 67.5%, P = .028).

CONCLUSIONS

Acute reocclusion of treated arteries was common after emergent intracranial angioplasty with or without stent placement in patients with acute stroke with intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis and was associated with a poor outcome. Suboptimal results of angioplasty appear to be associated with acute reocclusion, irrespective of whether stent placement was performed.

Abstract P2-02-15: Discovery of putative circulating tumor cells through somatic mutation profile of epithelial cell adhesion molecule positive single cells from blood of metastatic breast cancer patients

Background: Circulating tumor cell (CTC) enumeration provides prognostic information for chemotherapy in metastatic breast cancer. However, due to its rarity and heterogeneity, it is difficult to distinguish true CTCs from normal blood cells and perform genomic analysis on them for use in therapeutic strategies. The main application of most currently available CTC detection systems consists of an enumeration of putative CTCs without further analysis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of single cell picking and target sequencing of epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM)-positive cells for detecting CTCs.

Methods: Whole blood sampled from metastatic breast cancer patients who were newly diagnosed with metastasis or who had disease progression during palliative treatment were used for this study. After applying IsoFlux Circulating Tumor Cell Enrichment Kit (Fluxion, South San Francisco, CA, USA), single CTC candidates were picked from a pool of EpCAM-positive cells. Genomic DNA from the picked cells was whole genome amplified and target sequencing was performed using Ion AmpliSeq™ Cancer Hotspot Panel (Life Technologies, Carlsbad, CA, USA). Target sequencing reads were mapped to human genome reference (hg19) using BWA-MEM (0.7.10). Single nucleotide variants (SNVs) were annotated using dbSNP, Variome Data 0.2, and COSMIC databases.

Results: A total of 172 EpCAM-positive cells were selected according to size and EpCAM status from whole blood of 11 patients. The remaining cells were grouped into a pooled sample for each patient. The mean read depth of the target genes was 13455×. A mean 7.82 mutations as determined by SNVs listed in the COSMIC database but not in dbSNP and Variome Data 0.2 were detected in each patient. Cells with multiple mutated genes, or those with a mutated gene repeatedly observed in another cell from the same patient were judged to be putative CTCs. At least 2 putative CTCs were detected in 7 patients while no CTCs were detected in 2 patients. Mutated genes observed in the putative CTCs were ABL1, AKT1, APC, CDH1, CDKN2A, ERBB2, FGFR3, HRAS, IDH1, JAK2, KDR, NPM1, RB1, RET, SMARCB1, STK11, and TP53.

Conclusions: Potential CTCs were successfully identified by single cell picking and target sequencing of EpCAM-positive cells from whole blood of metastatic breast cancer patients. Unique mutations not detected in other single cells and pooled samples can be used to distinguish putative CTCs from normal cells. Genomic profiling of corresponding primary tumor and metastatic site biopsy is warranted to verify the CTCs and investigate their role in disease progression.

Citation Format: Lee H-B, Jeon S, Kim BC, Jho S, Kim J, Kang YJ, Yoo T-K, Han JH, Kim Y, Im S-A, Moon H-G, Noh D-Y, Han W. Discovery of putative circulating tumor cells through somatic mutation profile of epithelial cell adhesion molecule positive single cells from blood of metastatic breast cancer patients. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P2-02-15.

Preparation of gaseous CRMs from the primary system for (222)Rn activity measurement

For disseminating the gaseous radon standard traceable to the KRISS primary system based on the defined solid angle counting method, two kinds of radon CRM (a glass ampule type and a stainless steel cylinder type) were developed. The activity of the CRM was certified by subtracting a residual activity from the measured activity by the primary system. After certification, the ampule CRM was used to calibrate a radon-monitoring instrument and the cylinder CRM to calibrate an HPGe system. We also improved the measurement procedure of the radon primary system. In a typical radon energy spectrum, the radon peak overlaps with the polonium peak. For more reliable and accurate measurement of radon activity, a fitting method was adopted for the evaluation of radon area in the alpha energy spectrum. The result of radon activity evaluated by using the fitting method is in good agreement with that by the previous integration method.

Accidental displacement of a dental implant into the submandibular space during explantation

Dental implants are reliable and widely used, but complications such as peri-implantitis occasionally necessitate their removal. Accidents during removal are similar to those that may occur during extraction, including displacement into another structure in the maxillofacial region. We present a rare case of accidental displacement into the submandibular space, which happened during an attempt to remove an implant.

Estimation of pork quality traits using exsanguination blood and postmortem muscle metabolites

The current study was designed to estimate the pork quality traits using metabolites from exsanguination blood and postmortem muscle simultaneously under the Korean standard pre- and post-slaughter conditions. A total of 111 Yorkshire (pure breed and castrated male) pigs were evaluated under the Korean standard conditions. Measurements were taken of the levels of blood glucose and lactate at exsanguination, and muscle glycogen and lactate content at 45 min and 24 h postmortem. Certain pork quality traits were also evaluated. Correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis including stepwise regression were performed. Exsanguination blood glucose and lactate levels were positively correlated with each other, negatively related to postmortem muscle glycogen content and positively associated with postmortem muscle lactate content. A rapid and extended postmortem glycolysis was associated with high levels of blood glucose and lactate, with high muscle lactate content, and with low muscle glycogen content during postmortem. In addition, these were also correlated with paler meat color and reduced water holding capacity. The results of multiple regression analyses also showed that metabolites in exsanguination blood and postmortem muscle explained variations in pork quality traits. Especially, levels of blood glucose and lactate and content of muscle glycogen at early postmortem were significantly associated with an elevated early glycolytic rate. Furthermore, muscle lactate content at 24 h postmortem alone accounted for a considerable portion of the variation in pork quality traits. Based on these results, the current study confirmed that the main factor influencing pork quality traits is the ultimate lactate content in muscle via postmortem glycolysis, and that levels of blood glucose and lactate at exsanguination and contents of muscle glycogen and lactate at postmortem can explain a large portion of the variation in pork quality even under the standard slaughter conditions.

Abstract 3574: Analysis of whole genome and transcriptome sequencing in single cell

The rapid advancement in Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology has allowed extensive genetic profiling and analysis of tumor tissues. While accurate tumor characterization is crucial for cancer therapy, current sequencing methods are unable to resolve the genetic differences between the heterogeneous cell populations within tumor. By profiling specific subpopulations of cells from a larger heterogeneous population, single cell sequencing can improve the efficiency of cancer treatments through early detection of rare tumor cells, monitoring of circulating tumor cells, and accurate profiling of intra-tumor heterogeneity. In this study, we compared commercially available single cell amplification methods and sequencing platforms for whole genome and whole transcriptome sequencing. We isolated single cells from a human breast cancer cell line, MCF7, and human embryonic kidney cell line, HEK293, by micromanipulation, and their whole genome and transcriptome were sequenced. For whole genome sequencing, the performance of Repli-g (Qiagen), Ampli1 (Slicon Biosystems) and WGA4 (Sigma) were assessed for whole genome amplification. Next, we used TruSeq DNA Library Kit and Ion Plus Fragment Library Kit for library preparation, and whole genome sequencing was performed on HiSeq2000 and Proton. The sequencing data were analyzed by SAMtools/GATK and tmap-f3. For whole transcriptome sequencing, cDNA was synthesized from single cells using SMARTer ultra low input RNA kit (Clontech), and the cDNA library was prepared with Nextera XT library prep kit (Illumina) and Ion Total RNA-Seq Kit v2 (Life Technologies). Sequencing was performed on HiSeq2000 and Proton, and analyzed with Tophat and Cufflink. We show that the percentage of mappable reads and regions with more than 1X coverage in whole genome sequencing were similar to that of the genomic DNA data, but the coverage rate of regions with more than 10X was lower in single cell data on both NGS platforms. In the RNA-Seq, the gene detection rate in single cell and more than 100 cells were about 65% and 85% compare to total RNA, respectively.

Citation Format: Nak-Jung Kwon, Woo Chung Lee, Jiwoong Kim, Hyeri Kim, Ahreum Seong, Bong Cho Kim, Doo Hyun Park, Kap-Seok Yang. Analysis of whole genome and transcriptome sequencing in single cell. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 3574. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-3574

Three-dimensional architectural and structural analysis--a transition in concept and design from Delaire's cephalometric analysis

The aim of this study was to present a systematic sequence for three-dimensional (3D) measurement and cephalometry, provide the norm data for computed tomography-based 3D architectural and structural cephalometric analysis, and validate the 3D data through comparison with Delaire's two-dimensional (2D) lateral cephalometric data for the same Korean adults. 2D and 3D cephalometric analyses were performed for 27 healthy subjects and the measurements of both analyses were then individually and comparatively analyzed. Essential diagnostic tools for 3D cephalometry with modified definitions of the points, planes, and measurements were set up based on a review of the conceptual differences between two and three dimensions. Some 2D and 3D analysis results were similar, though significant differences were found with regard to craniofacial angle (C1-F1), incisal axis angles, cranial base length (C2), and cranial height (C3). The discrepancy in C2 and C3 appeared to be directly related to the magnification of 2D cephalometric images. Considering measurement discrepancies between 2D and 3D Delaire's analyses due to differences in concept and design, 3D architectural and structural analysis needs to be conducted based on norms and a sound 3D basis for the sake of its accurate application and widespread adoption.

Evaluation of premature senescence and senescence biomarkers in carcinoma cells and xenograft mice exposed to single or fractionated irradiation

The purpose of the present study was to elucidate whether premature senescence contributes to the outcome of radiotherapy (RT) and to validate senescence biomarkers in vitro and in vivo. Cultured human cancer cell lines and xenografted mice were exposed to single (SR; 2, 6 or 12 Gy) or fractionated radiation (FR; 3 x 2 Gy or 6 x 2 Gy), and premature senescence was assessed using senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) activity, hypophosphorylation of pRb and p21 accumulation. A variety of senescence-associated biomarkers including cathepsin D (CD), the eukaryotic translation elongation factors eEF1A1, eEF1B2, decoy receptor 2 and Dec1 were further validated in vivo or in vitro. We demonstrated the beneficial tumor suppressive role of ionizing radiation (IR)-induced premature senescence in vitro and in vivo. FR inhibited tumor growth via induction of premature senescence as effectively as an equivalent SR dose (≥6 Gy). In addition, CD and eEF1 were valuable biomarkers of cellular senescence in either SR- or RF-exposed carcinoma cells or xenograft mice. Our results suggest that 2 Gy of a conventional RT regime could achieve a better clinical outcome if premature senescence could be increased through an improved understanding of its molecular action mechanism.

Association of blood glucose, blood lactate, serum cortisol levels, muscle metabolites, muscle fiber type composition, and pork quality traits

The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship of blood glucose levels with blood lactate, serum cortisol levels, postmortem muscle glycogen and lactate content, muscle fiber type composition, and pork quality traits. Compared to pigs with lower blood glucose levels, pigs with higher blood glucose levels showed higher blood lactate and serum cortisol levels at exsanguination, and they had lower residual glycogen and higher lactate content in the muscle at 45min postmortem. In addition, pigs with higher blood glucose levels had higher type IIB and lower type I area composition and finally exhibited lower muscle pH, paler color, and excessive loss of fluid on surface. These results imply that measuring blood glucose levels at exsanguination can be useful to indicate early glycolytic rates during postmortem and thus may be of value in the identification of pork with undesirable quality traits.

Comparison of RECIST 1.0 and RECIST 1.1 on computed tomography in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer

OBJECTIVE

We conducted this study to compare tumor measurement by computed tomography (CT) and tumor response assessment between Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.0 and RECIST 1.1 in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC).

METHODS

We reviewed the medical records of patients with metastatic CRC who received first-line chemotherapy between January 2004 and December 2012 and compared CT tumor measurement using two RECIST versions.

RESULTS

A total of 58 patients who had target lesions according to RECIST 1.0 were included in the study. The number of target lesions recorded by RECIST 1.1 was significantly lower than that by RECIST 1.0, with a decrease experienced in 48 patients (82.7%). Six patients had no target lesions because of the new criteria of RECIST 1.1 for lymph node size. Out of 95 lymph nodes from 58 patients, only 40% were defined as target lesions according to RECIST 1.1. The overall response rate of first-line chemotherapy according to RECIST 1.0 and 1.1 was 41.5 and 40.4%, respectively. The best tumor responses showed almost perfect agreement between RECIST 1.1 and RECIST 1.0 (ĸ = 0.913). Three patients showed disagreement of the best responses between the two RECIST versions.

CONCLUSION

RECIST 1.1 showed a highly concordant response assessment with RECIST 1.0 in metastatic CRC and its clinical impact on therapeutic decisions was minimal.

Clinical validity of tissue carcinoembryonic antigen expression as ancillary to serum carcinoembryonic antigen concentration in patients curatively resected for colorectal cancer

AIM

Although serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level is prognostic in colorectal cancer, the prognostic role of tumour CEA expression is unclear. The aim of this study is to identify the prognostic and surveillance roles of tissue CEA expression along with serum CEA concentration in patients curatively resected for colorectal cancer.

METHOD

Between January and December 2003, 294 patients who underwent curative resection for colorectal cancer were included in the study. Correlation of tissue CEA expression with overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS) and elevated serum CEA concentration at tumour recurrence were analysed.

RESULTS

Tissue CEA expression was positive in 215 patients (73.1%). CEA expression was an independent prognostic factor for OS [hazard ratio (HR) = 2.537, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.065-6.042, P = 0.035] and DFS (HR = 3.090, 95% CI = 1.405-6.795, P = 0.005). Elevation of serum CEA at tumour recurrence was significantly lower in patients without than with tissue CEA expression (14.3 vs 57.6%, P = 0.045). Moreover, when patients were grouped according to a combination of serum CEA elevation and tissue CEA expression, those with tissue CEA expression and elevated serum CEA (group 3) had significantly poorer OS and DFS (P < 0.001 each) than those without CEA expression and elevated serum CEA (group 1) and those with either tissue CEA expression or elevated serum CEA (group 2). OS (P = 0.006) and DFS (P = 0.027) were both significantly greater in group 1 than in group 2.

CONCLUSION

Tissue CEA expression is a prognostic factor in patients with colorectal cancer. Analysis of tissue CEA expression may be helpful in determining the clinical utility of serial measurements of serum CEA as surveillance in patients with curatively resected colorectal cancer.

Proteins involved in electron transfer to Fe(III) and Mn(IV) oxides by Geobacter sulfurreducens and Geobacter uraniireducens

Whole-genome microarray analysis of Geobacter sulfurreducens grown on insoluble Fe(III) oxide or Mn(IV) oxide versus soluble Fe(III) citrate revealed significantly different expression patterns. The most upregulated genes, omcS and omcT, encode cell-surface c-type cytochromes, OmcS being required for Fe(III) and Mn(IV) oxide reduction. Other electron transport genes upregulated on both metal oxides included genes encoding putative menaquinol : ferricytochrome c oxidoreductase complexes Cbc4 and Cbc5, periplasmic c-type cytochromes Dhc2 and PccF, outer membrane c-type cytochromes OmcC, OmcG and OmcV, multicopper oxidase OmpB, the structural components of electrically conductive pili, PilA-N and PilA-C, and enzymes that detoxify reactive oxygen/nitrogen species. Genes upregulated on Fe(III) oxide encode putative menaquinol : ferricytochrome c oxidoreductase complexes Cbc3 and Cbc6, periplasmic c-type cytochromes, including PccG and PccJ, and outer membrane c-type cytochromes, including OmcA, OmcE, OmcH, OmcL, OmcN, OmcO and OmcP. Electron transport genes upregulated on Mn(IV) oxide encode periplasmic c-type cytochromes PccR, PgcA, PpcA and PpcD, outer membrane c-type cytochromes OmaB/OmaC, OmcB and OmcZ, multicopper oxidase OmpC and menaquinone-reducing enzymes. Genetic studies indicated that MacA, OmcB, OmcF, OmcG, OmcH, OmcI, OmcJ, OmcM, OmcV and PccH, the putative Cbc5 complex subunit CbcC and the putative Cbc3 complex subunit CbcV are important for reduction of Fe(III) oxide but not essential for Mn(IV) oxide reduction. Gene expression patterns for Geobacter uraniireducens were similar. These results demonstrate that the physiology of Fe(III)-reducing bacteria differs significantly during growth on different insoluble and soluble electron acceptors and emphasize the importance of c-type cytochromes for extracellular electron transfer in G. sulfurreducens.

Wig1 prevents cellular senescence by regulating p21 mRNA decay through control of RISC recruitment

Premature senescence, a key strategy used to suppress carcinogenesis, can be driven by p53/p21 proteins in response to various stresses. Here, we demonstrate that Wig1 plays a critical role in this process through regulation of p21 mRNA stability. Wig1 controls the association of Argonaute2 (Ago2), a central component of the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC), with target p21 mRNA via binding of the stem-loop structure near the microRNA (miRNA) target site. Depletion of Wig1 prohibited miRNA-mediated p21 mRNA decay and resulted in premature senescence. Wig1 plays an essential role in cell proliferation, as demonstrated in tumour xenografts in mice, and Wig1 and p21 mRNA levels are inversely correlated in human normal and cancer tissues. Together, our data indicate a novel role of Wig1 in RISC target accessibility, which is a key step in RNA-mediated gene silencing. In addition, these findings indicate that fine-tuning of p21 levels by Wig1 is essential for the prevention of cellular senescence.

Use of electrical conductivity to predict water-holding capacity in post-rigor pork

This study was designed to re-examine the interrelationships among ultimate pH (pH(u)), electrical conductivity (EC) and water-holding capacity (WHC), and to test if EC, using one of two EC instruments, and pH(u) can be used to predict WHC. The % drip (PD) was used as measure of WHC. Forty-seven pork loins were classified either as PSE (pale, soft, exudative), RSE (reddish-pink, soft, exudative), RFN (reddish-pink, firm, non-exudative) or DFD (dark, firm, dry), based on L* values, PD and pH(u.) The measurement of EC, conducted using the instrument developed at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW-EC) was highly correlated to PD at 24 h post mortem (CD=66%), but the pH (NWK) measure of EC was not as highly related to WHC as UW-EC. The predictive value of pH(u) and EC for WHC were similar. When 47 samples were divided into three different groups, such as low (< 2% drip), medium (2-6% drip) and high (> 6% drip) drip loss, UW-EC alone grouped 80% of the samples correctly. Thus, EC seemed to be an accurate predictor of WHC in pork muscle when measured at 24 h post mortem. It is conceivable that EC can be used independently, or with even better success in combination with pH(u), to classify WHC of pork carcasses.

Effect of low voltage electrical stimulation and temperature conditioning on postmortem changes in glycolysis and calpains activities of Korean native cattle (Hanwoo)

The combined effects of low voltage electrical stimulation (LVES) and temperature conditioning during early postmortem (PM) ageing on glycolytic rates and calpains activities of Korean native cattle (Hanwoo) were determined. M. longissimus was taken after splitting course, divided into three pieces and temperature conditioned at 2, 16, and 30°C for 3 h PM. The PM glycolytic rates, calpains and calpastatin activities were measured at 1, 3, 9, and 24 h PM. Although both LVES and the 30°C treatment accelerated glycolytic rates and resulted in improved enzyme activities, LVES was more effective for the improvement of enzyme activities than the 30°C treatment. Among tested Rigor-values (R-value; R(248), R(250), and R(258)), R(258) showed the highest correlation with pH (r=0.814, P<0.01), glycogen content (r=0.784, P<0.01) and μ-calpain (r=0.838, P<0.01) and selected as a suitable parameter to predict glycolytic rate. The high correlation coefficients between μ-calpain activity and metabolic rate parameters suggest that the change in the enzyme activity is closely related to glycolytic rates. The LVES in combination with the 30°C treatment until 3 h PM was the best treatment to accelerate the glycolytic rate and to improve the calpains activities in Hanwoo tissue.

Visual pathway-related horizontal reference plane for three-dimensional craniofacial analysis

OBJECTIVES

To construct three-dimensional (3D) horizontal reference planes based on visual pathway and to determine their stability and reliability by analyzing the structural patterns of normal and dysmorphology for 3D craniofacial analysis.

SETTING AND SAMPLE POPULATION

Thirty-six subjects with maxillofacial dysmorphology and malocclusion, and eight normal controls. MATERIALS AND METHODS POPULATION: On the 3D computed tomographic images of the subjects, the visual pathway-based planes, including the orbital axis plane (OAP), visual axis plane (VAP), and the optical axis plane (OpAP), were constructed and evaluated.

RESULTS

The OAP, but not the VAP and OpAP, showed the ideal relationship between the midsagittal and posterior maxillary plane, and properly described the different patterns of maxillofacial dysmorphology with craniofacial plane 1 of Delaire's analysis and the occlusal plane.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed visual pathway-related horizontal reference planes, and in particular the OAP, seem to correctly express the visual axis and the position of the head in natural head position and can be used as a horizontal reference plane for the 3D analysis of craniofacial dysmorphology and anthropology.

Predictors for lymph node metastasis in T1 colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

It is critical that the risk of lymph node metastasis (LNM) is evaluated for determining the suitability of endoscopic resection for T1 colorectal cancer (CRC). Reported risk factors for LNM in completely resected T1 CRC are deep submucosal invasion, grade 3, angiolymphatic invasion, and budding. The aim of the present study was to identify the histopathologic factors associated with LNM in T1 CRC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study involved 435 patients with T1 CRC treated by endoscopic or surgical resection between January 2001 and April 2010 at the National Cancer Center, Korea. The 435 patients were classified into two groups - those undergoing surgical resection (n = 324) and those undergoing endoscopic resection (n = 111). In the surgically resected group, details regarding depth of submucosal invasion, angiolymphatic invasion, tumor grade, budding, and background adenoma (BGA) were evaluated with respect to presence or absence of LNM. In the endoscopically resected group, the results of follow-ups and additional salvage surgeries were studied.

RESULTS

In the surgically resected group, LNM was detected in 42 patients (13.0 %). Grade 3, angiolymphatic invasion, budding, and the absence of BGA were identified as factors associated with LNM in univariate and multivariate analyses (P < 0.05). Among the 50 patients in the endoscopically resected group with high risk, three were diagnosed as being LNM-positive during the follow-up period. There was no LNM in the endoscopically resected group with low risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Grade 3, angiolymphatic invasion, budding, and the absence of BGA are the risk factors that predict LNM in patients with T1 CRC. In cases where endoscopically resected T1 CRC has no risk factor, cautious follow-up could be recommended. However, if the tumor has any risk factor, additional surgical resection should be considered.

Observation of reactor electron antineutrinos disappearance in the RENO experiment

The RENO experiment has observed the disappearance of reactor electron antineutrinos, consistent with neutrino oscillations, with a significance of 4.9 standard deviations. Antineutrinos from six 2.8  GW(th) reactors at the Yonggwang Nuclear Power Plant in Korea, are detected by two identical detectors located at 294 and 1383 m, respectively, from the reactor array center. In the 229 d data-taking period between 11 August 2011 and 26 March 2012, the far (near) detector observed 17102 (154088) electron antineutrino candidate events with a background fraction of 5.5% (2.7%). The ratio of observed to expected numbers of antineutrinos in the far detector is 0.920±0.009(stat)±0.014(syst). From this deficit, we determine sin(2)2θ(13)=0.113±0.013(stat)±0.019(syst) based on a rate-only analysis.

The characteristics and risk factors of headache development after the coil embolization of an unruptured aneurysm

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Development of a headache after aneurysm coil embolization is not uncommon but has received little attention. The authors prospectively analyze the characteristics and risk factors of a headache after coiling in patients treated for an unruptured cerebral aneurysm.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ninety patients treated for an unruptured cerebral aneurysm over a period of 1 year, and without a headache history within a month before coiling, were enrolled in this study. All coilings were successfully performed without neurologic complications. After coiling, headache development and intensities were recorded.

RESULTS

Fifty (55.6%) patients experienced a headache (VAS score, 4.5 ± 2.02) at 7.9 (range, 0-72) hours, on average, after coiling, and all headaches resolved within an average of 73.0 (range, 3-312) hours. Univariate analysis showed that the following were significantly associated with the development of a headache: age ≤ 50 years (OR 4.636, 95% CI, 1.414-15.198), hypertension (OR 0.232, 95% CI, 0.095-0.571), a packing attenuation of >25% (OR 3.619, 95% CI, 1.428-9.174), and a previous headache history (OR 2.769, 95% CI, 1.120-6.849). However, binary logistic regression showed that only a packing attenuation of >25% (P = .013, adjusted OR 3.774, 95% CI, 1.320-10.790) and no history of hypertension (P = .019, adjusted OR 3.515, 95% CI, 1.233-10.021) were independently associated with the development of a headache.

CONCLUSIONS

A headache frequently developed after the coiling of unruptured aneurysms. However, headaches were relatively benign and resolved within several days. The present study shows that no hypertension history and a packing attenuation of >25% are risk factors of headache development.

Effects of muscle cortisol concentration on muscle fiber characteristics, pork quality, and sensory quality of cooked pork

The effect of muscle cortisol concentration on muscle fiber characteristics and technological and sensory quality of pork was investigated. With the exception of the percentage of type IIA fibers, muscle fiber characteristics were not associated to cortisol levels. However, muscle cortisol concentration was positively associated with muscle pH(24h) (r = 0.23, P<0.05) and negatively associated with drip loss (r = -0.49, P<0.001), lightness (r = -0.24, P<0.05), shear force (r = -0.25, P<0.05), and texture profile analysis-hardness (r = -0.35, P<0.01). Additionally, the water-holding capacity of meat samples was affected by cortisol levels, with lower cortisol concentrations associated with less tender samples. These results indicate that the concentration of cortisol in the muscle is related with meat quality as well as the sensory quality of cooked pork.

Comparison of 2-year angiographic outcomes of stent- and nonstent-assisted coil embolization in unruptured aneurysms with an unfavorable configuration for coiling

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Stents are known to have hemodynamic and biologic effects in addition to their mechanical scaffold effect. To determine whether stents affect long-term outcomes after coiling of unruptured aneurysms, we compared angiographic outcomes at 2 years postembolization for stent- and nonstent-assisted coiled unruptured aneurysms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Stent-assisted coiling was used in unruptured aneurysms unfavorable for simple coiling (neck size >4 mm and dome-to-neck ratio <1.5) in our practice. Therefore, 126 coiled unruptured aneurysms in total (40 [31.7%] stent group and 86 [68.3%] nonstent group) with these conditions were selected for this study. The nonstent group aneurysms were treated with multiple microcatheter technique (53 cases) or balloon-assisted technique (33 cases). Self-expandable stents were used for coiling in stent group aneurysms. No significant difference in aneurysmal characteristics (aneurysm type [sidewall/bifurcation], diameter, neck size, and dome-to-neck ratio) or angiographic outcome at embolization (packing attenuation, obliteration grade, and contrast filling) were observed between the 2 study groups.

RESULTS

At 2-year follow-up visits, rates of progressive occlusion (stent group, 17/40 [42.5%] versus nonstent group, 34/86 [39.5%]) and recanalization (7/40 [17.5%] versus 18/86 [21.0%]) did not show a statistically significant difference between the 2 groups (P = .895).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study did not show that additional hemodynamic and biologic effects of stents designed for neck remodeling were enough to enhance progressive occlusion and prevent the recanalization of unruptured aneurysms. Our finding suggests that stent placement provides no better long-term angiographic outcomes for unruptured aneurysms with an unfavorable configuration for coiling.

The influence of pork quality traits and muscle fiber characteristics on the eating quality of pork from various breeds

The purpose of this study was to compare parameters associated with pork quality, muscle fiber, and eating quality among various breeds, and to examine if differences in eating quality were associated to pork quality and muscle fiber characteristics. For carcass and pork quality, although there were significant differences among breeds, the values of parameters in all pigs were assigned a normal quality class, a likely outcome of the similarity in the area percentage of type I and IIB fibers. For eating quality, pork loins from Berkshire pigs were more tender and full of pork flavor than Landrace and Yorkshire pigs. Except juiciness and mouth coating, over 20% of the variability in the eating quality parameters can be explained by pork quality traits and muscle fiber characteristics using multiple regression analysis. Furthermore, differences in muscle pH(24h), cooking loss, shear force, and NPPC marbling score could explain a large proportion of variation in eating quality parameters associated with the texture of pork.

Practical use of surimi-like material made from porcine longissimus dorsi muscle for the production of low-fat pork patties

This study evaluates the effect of replacing fat with surimi-like material (SLM) made from the porcine longissimus dorsi muscle on the physicochemical and sensory characteristics of pork patties. Pork patties were produced with different levels of fat and SLM using a commercial method. Pork patties produced with 20% SLM had the lowest fat content (1.76%, P<0.001), and had a higher cooking yield (87.41 vs. 78.57%, P<0.05) and less shrinkage (4.01 vs. 9.02%, P<0.001) than patties produced with 20% back-fat (control). Moreover, patties produced with SLM exhibited more acceptable organoleptic characteristics, including tenderness (P<0.01) and overall acceptability (P<0.001), than full-fat control patties. These results indicated that SLM cannot only be used as a fat replacer, but that it also improves the physicochemical and sensory characteristics of low-fat pork patties.

Clinicopathological differences of laterally spreading tumors of the colorectum according to gross appearance

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Laterally spreading tumors (LST) are classified into two subtypes, with the nongranular type harboring a higher risk of (pre)malignant changes than the granular type. Further subdifferentiation into two subgroups each has been suggested, but the clinical significance of such a subdifferentiation has not previously been studied in detail in larger numbers.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Out of 6499 patients diagnosed with colorectal adenomas between January 2006 and November 2008, 153 patients (2.35 %) had 158 LSTs, 96 with a granular and 62 with a nongranular pattern. The former group was subdivided into homogeneous and nodular mixed, the latter group into flat elevated and pseudodepressed. Clinical and histopathological parameters were compared among the four subtypes.

RESULTS

Parameters were variably distributed between the four groups, with nodular mixed tumors being larger than the other three types ( P < 0.0001). As in other studies, malignant transformation and premalignant lesion (HGIN/CIS) were more frequent in nodular mixed than in homogeneous tumors (45.0 % vs. 5.6 %, P < 0.001), and also more common in pseudodepressed than in flat elevated tumors (41.7 % vs. 13.2 %, P = 0.011). Submucosal invasive cancer was present in 8.3 % of nodular mixed tumors, 7.9 % of flat elevated, and 12.5 % of pseudodepressed, while it was absent in homogeneous tumors. Serrated adenoma was identified in 10.8 % of all LSTs, and sessile serrated adenoma tended to be more common in flat elevated tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

Further subdifferentiation of the LST lesions to identify lesions at risk of malignant transformation makes most sense in the granular type. Among nongranular LSTs, both subtypes carry a significant risk.

PTEN status switches cell fate between premature senescence and apoptosis in glioma exposed to ionizing radiation

Loss of the tumor suppressor phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) has frequently been observed in human gliomas, conferring AKT activation and resistance to ionizing radiation (IR) and drug treatments. Recent reports have shown that PTEN loss or AKT activation induces premature senescence, but many details regarding this effect remain obscure. In this study, we tested whether the status of PTEN determined fate of the cell by examining PTEN-deficient U87, U251, and U373, and PTEN-proficient LN18 and LN428 glioma cells after exposure to IR. These cells exhibited different cellular responses, senescence or apoptosis, depending on the PTEN status. We further observed that PTEN-deficient U87 cells with high levels of both AKT activation and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) underwent senescence, whereas PTEN-proficient LN18 cells entered apoptosis. ROS were indispensable for inducing senescence in PTEN-deficient cells, but not for apoptosis in PTEN-proficient cells. Furthermore, transfection with wild-type (wt) PTEN or AKT small interfering RNA induced a change from premature senescence to apoptosis and depletion of p53 or p21 prevented IR-induced premature senescence in U87 cells. Our data indicate that PTEN acts as a pivotal determinant of cell fate, regarding senescence and apoptosis in IR-exposed glioma cells. We conclude that premature senescence could have a compensatory role for apoptosis in the absence of the tumor suppressor PTEN through the AKT/ROS/p53/p21 signaling pathway.

Time-dependently expressed markers and the characterization for premature senescence induced by ionizing radiation in MCF7

Senescence has been suggested as a defense mechanism to block sporadic induction of cancer cells. Radiation treatment induces proliferating cancer cells to turn into non-proliferating senescent cells in vitro. To characterize transcriptional reprogramming after radiation treatment, we measured the gene expression profiles of MCF7 at different time points after treatment. In these experiments, we found that IR induced premature senescence in MCF7 cells, and IR treatment resulted in significant changes in the expression of 305 marker genes (<1% FDR), which were strongly correlated (|r|>0.9) with IR treatment in a time-dependent manner. Functional analysis of these markers indicated that the dynamics of cytoskeletal structure and lysosomal activity gradually increased. The expression of maker genes for modulator proteins, that were responsible for the dynamics of actin stress fibers and focal adhesion, displayed a particularly strong positive correlation with senescence-associated (SA) morphological changes through time. We also observed a strong induction of genes related to lysosomal metabolic activity, which was accompanied by an increase in the number of SA-beta-Gal positive cells. However, the expression of genes for cell cycle progression, post-transcription and translation activities gradually decreased after radiation treatment. Especially, we observed clear cell cycle arrest specifically at the S and G2/M phases with consistent down-regulation of genes for microtubule assembly/disassembly or spindle biogenesis.

Effects of combined radiofrequency radiation exposure on the cell cycle and its regulatory proteins

The aim of this study was to investigate whether single or combined radio frequency (RF) radiation exposure has effects on the cell cycle and its regulatory proteins. Exposure of MCF7 cells to either single (837 MHz) or combined (837 and 1950 MHz) RF radiation was conducted at specific absorption rate values of 4 W/kg for 1 h. During the exposure period, the chamber was made isothermal by circulating water through the cavity. After RF radiation exposure, DNA synthesis rate and cell cycle distribution were assessed. The levels of cell cycle regulatory proteins, p53, p21, cyclins, and cyclin-dependent kinases were also examined. The positive control group was exposed to 0.5 and 4 Gy doses of ionizing radiation (IR) and showed changes in DNA synthesis and cell cycle distribution. The levels of p53, p21, cyclin A, cyclin B1, and cyclin D1 were also affected by IR exposure. In contrast to the IR-exposed group, neither the single RF radiation- nor the combined RF radiation-exposed group elicited alterations in DNA synthesis, cell cycle distribution, and levels of cell cycle regulatory proteins. These results indicate that neither single nor combined RF radiation affect cell cycle progression.

Correlations of trained panel sensory values of cooked pork with fatty acid composition, muscle fiber type, and pork quality characteristics in Berkshire pigs

The objective was to examine the relationship of trained panel sensory scores of cooked pork with fatty acid composition, muscle fiber type, and meat quality characteristics from Berkshire pigs. No or few associations were found between the panel sensory scores of cooked meat, especially tenderness attributes, and fatty acid composition; however, intramuscular fat content positively correlated with off-flavor score (r=0.31). On the other hand, the morphological characteristics of muscle fibers were correlated with panel sensory values. Muscles with smaller cross-sectional area and higher density of fibers were more closely associated with softer, more tender panel scores and a lower number of chews than muscles with larger fiber area and lower density of fibers. The water holding capacity test of filter-paper fluid uptake was moderately correlated with panel scores of softness (r=0.33), initial tenderness (r=0.38), chewiness (r=0.40), juiciness (r=-0.27), flavor intensity (r=-0.23), and off-flavor (r=0.30). Panel sensory values of Berkshire pig meat was moderately related to postmortem meat quality, especially water holding capacity. A more thorough understanding of the relationships between fatty acid composition and muscle fiber type with palatability is needed.

Risk of hemorrhagic gastropathy associated with colonoscopy bowel preparation using oral sodium phosphate solution

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Oral sodium phosphate (NaP) solution is widely used for colonoscopy bowel preparation and it may cause aphthous ulcers in the colon. Our aim was to evaluate whether oral NaP solution is associated with gastric mucosal lesions.

METHODS

A total of 20 070 individuals underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) with colonoscopy, and 4271 individuals underwent EGD without colonoscopy, for cancer screening. Oral NaP solutions were used for bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy. Hemorrhagic gastropathy was graded using a five-point scale for erosive mucosal injury. The effect of NaP bowel preparation on hemorrhagic gastropathy was estimated using multiple logistic regression analysis with odds ratios (ORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

The incidence of hemorrhagic gastropathy was 1.6 % (70/4271) in the EGD only group and 4.0 % (809/20 070) in the EGD with colonoscopy group ( P < 0.001, unadjusted OR 2.55, 95 %CI 1.99 - 3.27). The ORs for mild (grade 1 - 2), moderate (grade 3), and severe (grade 4) hemorrhagic gastropathy according to NaP use were 1.92 (95 %CI 1.45 - 2.54), 4.72 (95 %CI 2.65 - 8.47), and 5.99 (95 %CI 1.46 - 24.63), respectively. After adjustment for confounding factors, NaP solution was a significant risk factor for acute hemorrhagic gastropathy in the multivariate analysis (OR 1.92, 95 %CI 1.34-2.74). In addition, male sex, a body mass index (kg/m (2)) of less than 20, concurrent use of antihypertensive or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and duodenal ulcers were independently associated with the development of hemorrhagic gastropathy. HELICOBACTER PYLORI infection and atrophic gastritis were negatively associated with hemorrhagic gastropathy.

CONCLUSION

Oral NaP bowel preparation for colonoscopy was associated with hemorrhagic gastropathy.

Sensory evaluations of porcine longissimus dorsi muscle: Relationships with postmortem meat quality traits and muscle fiber characteristics

The objective of this study was to investigate sensory evaluations and their relationships with meat quality measurements and histochemical characteristics in both fresh and cooked pork. Based on the results, postmortem meat quality traits were closely related to almost all the evaluated sensory attributes. With regard to histochemical characteristics, muscle fiber area was related to both fresh- (r=0.18, P<0.05) and cooked-meat color (r=-0.24, P<0.01) as well as abnormal flavor intensity (r=0.25, P<0.01), and muscle fiber composition was associated with fresh pork color and taste acceptability after cooking. There were no significant relationships (P>0.05) between type IIa muscle fiber content and the evaluated sensory attributes; however, good meat sensory quality was partially explained by the percentage of type I fiber.

Associations of the variation in the porcine myogenin gene with muscle fibre characteristics, lean meat production and meat quality traits

Pig breeding is aimed at improving lean meat production ability as well as meat quality, and muscle fibre characteristics may be important for enhancing these traits. Therefore, new molecular markers have been demanded for selecting lean meat production ability and meat quality in live animals. Myogenin belongs to the MyoD gene family, and is a candidate gene responsible for muscle fibre characteristics. We identified a new single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) site in the 5' upstream region of the myogenin gene (nucleotides C and T). A total of 252 pigs of three breeds were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism using BspCNI. Additionally, they were genotyped for the previously detected MspI site in the 3'-flanking region (alleles A and B). The CCBB diplotype had the highest frequency over breeds, followed by TCBB and CCAB. The other diplotypes were not found in studied pigs. Association analysis performed for the markers found that the TCBB diplotype has desirable effects on the total number of fibres (p < 0.002), fibre cross-sectional area (p < 0.06), and loin eye area (p < 0.001) than the other diplotypes. Moreover, the diplotype had the highest muscle pH value (p < 0.07) and all meat quality traits were near the upper limit of the normal range as a reddish pink, firm and non-exudative (RFN) pork. Therefore, we suggest that selection for the myogenin diplotypes could improve total muscle fibre number, size and lean meat production ability with good meat quality.

The relation of blood glucose level to muscle fiber characteristics and pork quality traits

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between blood glucose level, muscle fiber characteristics, and pork quality. Muscle samples were classified into three groups based on blood glucose level measured at slaughter. Pigs with higher area percentages of fiber type IIB showed higher blood glucose levels compared to pigs with lower area percentages of fiber type IIB. The high blood glucose level group presented lower pH values at 45min and 24h postmortem, and also had higher L(∗) values and reduced water holding capacity. In addition, blood glucose level had a negative relationship with pH(45min) and the solubility of sarcoplasmic and myofibrillar proteins, whereas it had a positive relationship with drip loss and filter-paper fluid uptake. In conclusion, blood glucose level was related to muscle fiber area composition and could partially indicate ultimate pork quality.

TIS21/(BTG2) negatively regulates estradiol-stimulated expansion of hematopoietic stem cells by derepressing Akt phosphorylation and inhibiting mTOR signal transduction

It has been known that 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol-13-acetate-inducible sequence 21 (TIS21), ortholog of human B-cell translocation gene 2, regulates expansions of stage-specific thymocytes and hematopoietic progenitors. In the present study, lineage-negative (Lin(-))/stem cell antigen-1-positive (Sca-1+)/c-Kit+ (LSK) cell content was significantly elevated in bone marrow (BM) of TIS21-knockout (TIS21(-/-)) female mice, suggesting 17beta-estradiol (E(2))-regulated progenitor expansion. E(2) induced DNA synthesis and cell proliferation of mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) isolated from TIS21(-/-) mice, but not wild type (WT). In contrast to WT, E(2) failed to activate protein kinase B (Akt) in the TIS21(-/-) MEFs, independent of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (Erk1/2) activation. Despite attenuation of Akt activation, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) was constitutively activated in the TIS21(-/-) MEFs. Furthermore, mitogen-activated protein kinase 1/2 inhibitor or knockdown of Erk1 could restore activation of Akt and downregulate mTOR. Immunoprecipitation showed Akt preferentially bound to phosphorylated Erk1/2 (p-Erk1/2) in TIS21(-/-) cells, but reconstitution of TIS21 inhibited their interaction. E(2)-injected TIS21(-/-) male mice also increased LSK cells in BM. Taken together, expansion of hematopoietic progenitors in TIS21(-/-) female mice might be through inhibition of Akt activation, and constitutive activation of mTOR via preferential binding of TIS21 to E(2)-induced p-Erk1/2, compared with that of Akt. Our results suggest that TIS21 plays a pivotal role in maintaining the hematopoietic stem cell compartment and hematopoiesis.

Lovastatin inhibits oxidized low-density lipoprotein-induced plasminogen activator inhibitor and transforming growth factor-beta1 expression via a decrease in Ras/extracellular signal-regulated kinase activity in mesangial cells

Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL) might be involved in the progression of renal disease. Ox-LDL stimulation of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) expression via transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta)/Smad signaling in mesangial cells required activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Mevalonate depletion by 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors, or statins, decreases the levels of farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP) for isoprenylation of Ras. We postulate that statins may ameliorate the Ox-LDL-induced mesangial matrix accumulation by inhibiting Ras/ERK activation with subsequent downregulation of TGF-beta target genes. Quiescent mesangial cells were incubated for 18 h with and without the presence of lovastatin before 50 microg/mL of Ox-LDL treatment for 1 h. Lovastatin inhibited markedly the stimulatory effects of Ox-LDL on ERK1/2 activation, nuclear Smad3 expression, TGF-beta1 and PAI-1 mRNA and protein expression, and PAI-1 luciferase activity. These inhibitory effects of lovastatin were reversed almost completely by mevalonate or FPP. Similar to lovastatin, FTI-277, which is an inhibitor of Ras farnesylation, decreased the Ox-LDL-induced activation of ERK/Smad3 and induction of TGF-beta1/PAI-1. These results indicate that lovastatin prevents the Ox-LDL-induced Ras/ERK activation that results in inhibition of Smad3 activation in mesangial cells with subsequent downregulation of TGF-beta target genes. Thus, statins seem to have antifibrotic effects through their anti-TGF-beta response that are relevant in the treatment of chronic renal disease with dyslipidemia.

The relation between glycogen, lactate content and muscle fiber type composition, and their influence on postmortem glycolytic rate and pork quality

This study examined the relation between glycogen, lactate content and muscle fiber type composition, and evaluated their influence on postmortem glycolytic rate and meat quality. Muscle samples were classified based on their glycogen and lactate content at 45min postmortem. Muscles with low glycogen and high lactate levels showed low muscle pH(45min) and high R-values. However, muscles with low glycogen and lactate levels showed normal rates of postmortem glycolysis and normal meat quality. On the other hand, muscles with high glycogen and lactate content showed rapid postmortem glycolysis, paler surface color, higher drip loss, and higher extents of protein denaturation than muscles with high glycogen and low lactate content. These results may be partially explained by muscle fiber type composition. Muscles with low glycogen and lactate content at early postmortem are composed of significantly higher fiber type I and lower fiber type IIB as compared to muscles with high glycogen and lactate content.

Partonic Flow and phi-Meson production in Au+Au collisions at sqrt radical sNN = 200 GeV

We present first measurements of the phi-meson elliptic flow (v2(pT)) and high-statistics pT distributions for different centralities from radical sNN=200 GeV Au+Au collisions at RHIC. In minimum bias collisions the v2 of the phi meson is consistent with the trend observed for mesons. The ratio of the yields of the Omega to those of the phi as a function of transverse momentum is consistent with a model based on the recombination of thermal s quarks up to pT approximately 4 GeV/c, but disagrees at higher momenta. The nuclear modification factor (R CP) of phi follows the trend observed in the K S 0 mesons rather than in Lambda baryons, supporting baryon-meson scaling. These data are consistent with phi mesons in central Au+Au collisions being created via coalescence of thermalized s quarks and the formation of a hot and dense matter with partonic collectivity at RHIC.