Differences of bioelectrical impedance in the development and healing phase of pressure ulcers and erythema in mouse model

Pressure ulcers (PUs) are economically burdensome medical conditions. Early changes in pressure ulcers are associated with erythema. In this study, bioelectrical impedance was used to measure the differences between PUs and blanchable erythema. We divided 21 ICR mice into three groups: control, 1000 mmHg-1h, and 1000 mmHg-6h. Healthy skin, blanchable erythema, and PUs were induced on the dorsal skin. The results indicated an immediate increase in impedance, resistance, and reactance values in the pressure group after release, followed by a subsequent decrease until two days after release. Compared with the control group, impedance and reactance significantly increased by 30.9% (p < 0.05) and 30.1% (p < 0.01), respectively, in the 6 h-loading group immediately after release. One and two days after release, the 1 h-loading and 6 h-loading groups exhibited significantly different degrees of decline. One day after release, impedance and resistance decreased by 30.2% (p < 0.05) and 19.8% (p < 0.05), respectively, in the 1 h-loading group; while impedance, resistance, and reactance decreased by 39.2% (p < 0.01), 26.8% (p < 0.01), and 45.7% (p < 0.05), respectively, in the 6 h-loading group. Two days after release, in the 1 h-loading group, impedance and resistance decreased by 28.3% (p < 0.05) and 21.7% (p < 0.05), respectively; while in the 6 h-loading group, impedance, resistance, and reactance decreased by 49.8% (p < 0.001), 34.2% (p < 0.001), and 59.8% (p < 0.01), respectively. One and two days after release the pressure group reductions were significantly greater than those in the control group. Additionally, we monitored changes during wound healing. Distinguishing early PUs from blanchable erythema by noninvasive bioelectrical impedance technology may have applications value in early assessment of PUs.

A bacterial sialidase mediates early-life colonization by a pioneering gut commensal

The early microbial colonization of the gastrointestinal tract can have long-term impacts on development and health. Keystone species, including Bacteroides spp., are prominent in early life and play crucial roles in maintaining the structure of the intestinal ecosystem. However, the process by which a resilient community is curated during early life remains inadequately understood. Here, we show that a single sialidase, NanH, in Bacteroides fragilis mediates stable occupancy of the intestinal mucosa in early life and regulates a commensal colonization program. This program is triggered by sialylated glycans, including those found in human milk oligosaccharides and intestinal mucus. NanH is required for vertical transmission from dams to pups and promotes B. fragilis dominance during early life. Furthermore, NanH facilitates commensal resilience and recovery after antibiotic treatment in a defined microbial community. Collectively, our study reveals a co-evolutionary mechanism between the host and microbiota mediated through host-derived glycans to promote stable colonization.

microbeMASST: a taxonomically informed mass spectrometry search tool for microbial metabolomics data

microbeMASST, a taxonomically informed mass spectrometry (MS) search tool, tackles limited microbial metabolite annotation in untargeted metabolomics experiments. Leveraging a curated database of >60,000 microbial monocultures, users can search known and unknown MS/MS spectra and link them to their respective microbial producers via MS/MS fragmentation patterns. Identification of microbe-derived metabolites and relative producers without a priori knowledge will vastly enhance the understanding of microorganisms' role in ecology and human health.

Commensal bacteria promote type I interferon signaling to maintain immune tolerance in mice

Type I interferons (IFNs) exert a broad range of biological effects important in coordinating immune responses, which have classically been studied in the context of pathogen clearance. Yet, whether immunomodulatory bacteria operate through IFN pathways to support intestinal immune tolerance remains elusive. Here, we reveal that the commensal bacterium, Bacteroides fragilis, utilizes canonical antiviral pathways to modulate intestinal dendritic cells (DCs) and regulatory T cell (Treg) responses. Specifically, IFN signaling is required for commensal-induced tolerance as IFNAR1-deficient DCs display blunted IL-10 and IL-27 production in response to B. fragilis. We further establish that IFN-driven IL-27 in DCs is critical in shaping the ensuing Foxp3+ Treg via IL-27Rα signaling. Consistent with these findings, single-cell RNA sequencing of gut Tregs demonstrated that colonization with B. fragilis promotes a distinct IFN gene signature in Foxp3+ Tregs during intestinal inflammation. Altogether, our findings demonstrate a critical role of commensal-mediated immune tolerance via tonic type I IFN signaling.

Pangenome comparison of Bacteroides fragilis genomospecies unveil genetic diversity and ecological insights

Bacteroides fragilis is a Gram-negative commensal bacterium commonly found in the human colon that differentiates into two genomospecies termed division I and II. We leverage a comprehensive collection of 694 B. fragilis whole genome sequences and report differential gene abundance to further support the recent proposal that divisions I and II represent separate species. In division I strains, we identify an increased abundance of genes related to complex carbohydrate degradation, colonization, and host niche occupancy, confirming the role of division I strains as gut commensals. In contrast, division II strains display an increased prevalence of plant cell wall degradation genes and exhibit a distinct geographic distribution, primarily originating from Asian countries, suggesting dietary influences. Notably, division II strains have an increased abundance of genes linked to virulence, survival in toxic conditions, and antimicrobial resistance, consistent with a higher incidence of these strains in bloodstream infections. This study provides new evidence supporting a recent proposal for classifying divisions I and II B. fragilis strains as distinct species, and our comparative genomic analysis reveals their niche-specific roles.

Clinicopathological characteristics of myelodysplastic syndromes with del(5q) in Taiwan

BACKGROUND

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of clonal haematopoietic stem cell disorders characterised by ineffective haematopoiesis and cytopenia. Studies have reported differences in MDS between Asian and Western countries, but data from Taiwan are scarce.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study we analysed the clinical and pathological features of 32 Taiwanese MDS patients with del(5q) (ie, del(5q) alone [Group A, n = 11], del(5q) with one additional cytogenetic abnormality other than monosomy 7 or del(7q) [Group B, del(5q)+1; n = 6], and del(5q) with ≥2 additional cytogenetic abnormalities [Group C, n = 15]).

RESULTS

Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were more favourable for Group A than for Groups B (p < 0.05) and C (p ≤ 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that age >70 years, thrombocytopenia, and karyotype other than del(5q) alone were poor prognostic factors. Among the patients that had World Health Organization (WHO)-defined MDS with isolated del(5q), one patient (9%) had a typical marrow morphology of 5q minus syndrome with erythroid hypoplasia and four patients (36%) had hypolobated megakaryocytes. In addition, PFS and OS were significantly more favorable for the patients with del(5q) alone than for those with del(5q)+1 (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The bone marrow morphology, clinical features, and prognosis of Taiwanese MDS patients with del(5q) were different from those associated with MDS with isolated del(5q) as defined in the current WHO classification. Researchers should compare different geographic regions and racial populations to determine whether geographic and racial differences exist with respect to MDS with del(5q).

Selective IL-27 production by intestinal regulatory T cells permits gut-specific regulation of TH17 cell immunity

Regulatory T cells (Treg cells) are instrumental in establishing immunological tolerance. However, the precise effector mechanisms by which Treg cells control a specific type of immune response in a given tissue remains unresolved. By simultaneously studying Treg cells from different tissue origins under systemic autoimmunity, in the present study we show that interleukin (IL)-27 is specifically produced by intestinal Treg cells to regulate helper T17 cell (TH17 cell) immunity. Selectively increased intestinal TH17 cell responses in mice with Treg cell-specific IL-27 ablation led to exacerbated intestinal inflammation and colitis-associated cancer, but also helped protect against enteric bacterial infection. Furthermore, single-cell transcriptomic analysis has identified a CD83+CD62Llo Treg cell subset that is distinct from previously characterized intestinal Treg cell populations as the main IL-27 producers. Collectively, our study uncovers a new Treg cell suppression mechanism crucial for controlling a specific type of immune response in a particular tissue and provides further mechanistic insights into tissue-specific Treg cell-mediated immune regulation.

A bacterial sialidase mediates early life colonization by a pioneering gut commensal

The early microbial colonization of the gastrointestinal tract can lead to long-term impacts in development and overall human health. Keystone species, including Bacteroides spp ., play a crucial role in maintaining the structure, diversity, and function of the intestinal ecosystem. However, the process by which a defined and resilient community is curated and maintained during early life remains inadequately understood. Here, we show that a single sialidase, NanH, in Bacteroides fragilis mediates stable occupancy of the intestinal mucosa and regulates the commensal colonization program during the first weeks of life. This program is triggered by sialylated glycans, including those found in human milk oligosaccharides and intestinal mucus. After examining the dynamics between pioneer gut Bacteroides species in the murine gut, we discovered that NanH enables vertical transmission from dams to pups and promotes B. fragilis dominance during early life. Furthermore, we demonstrate that NanH facilitates commensal resilience and recovery after antibiotic treatment in a defined microbial community. Collectively, our study reveals a co-evolutionary mechanism between the host and the microbiota mediated through host-derived glycans to promote stable intestinal colonization.

A Taxonomically-informed Mass Spectrometry Search Tool for Microbial Metabolomics Data

MicrobeMASST, a taxonomically-informed mass spectrometry (MS) search tool, tackles limited microbial metabolite annotation in untargeted metabolomics experiments. Leveraging a curated database of >60,000 microbial monocultures, users can search known and unknown MS/MS spectra and link them to their respective microbial producers via MS/MS fragmentation patterns. Identification of microbial-derived metabolites and relative producers, without a priori knowledge, will vastly enhance the understanding of microorganisms' role in ecology and human health.

Higher risk of future events, mortality and greater healthcare use among patients with increasingly recurrent atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease events in Taiwan: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

To describe the occurrence of recurrent atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) events within 3 years after a new-onset event, the associated disease burden and statin prescribing in patients with ASCVD in Taiwan.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

This was a retrospective cohort study using Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database.

PARTICIPANTS

In total, 111 399, 133 538 and 21 572 patients who were hospitalised with diagnosis of coronary heart disease (CHD), cerebrovascular disease (CBVD) and peripheral artery disease (PAD), respectively, between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2014.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

For each index and recurrent event, patients were observed for 12 months after admission to quantify risks of mortality, recurrent events, statin treatment and healthcare use.

RESULTS

We identified 97 321, 120 914 and 14 794 patients with new-onset CHD, CBVD and PAD, respectively. The proportions of developing first, second and third recurrent events were 22.5%, 25.6% and 30.9% for CHD; 20.9%, 26.2% and 32.4% for CBVD and 40.2%, 41.4% and 43.6% for PAD, respectively. Most patients had the same type of ASCVD for their recurrent events as their new-onset event. The mortality rates increased with each recurrent event (p<0.05 for all three ASCVD groups). The rates of hospital readmission and emergency room (ER) visit increased with increasing recurrent events. For example, in the CHD group, the 1-year readmission rates following the index, first and second recurrent events were 43.1%, 47.6% and 55.3%, respectively, and the proportions of visiting ER were 46.4%, 51.9% and 57.8%, respectively. Statin prescribing was suboptimal at time of index event and recurrent events.

CONCLUSION

Recurrent ASCVD events were associated with a higher risk of recurrent event and mortality and greater healthcare use. However, statin prescriptions at index event and after each recurrent event were suboptimal.

Selective IL-27 production by intestinal regulatory T cells permits gut-specific regulation of Th17 immunity

Regulatory T (Treg) cells are instrumental in establishing immunological tolerance. However, the precise effector mechanisms by which Treg cells control a specific type of immune response in a given tissue remains unresolved. By simultaneously studying Treg cells from different tissue origins under systemic autoimmunity, here we show that IL-27 is specifically produced by intestinal Treg cells to regulate Th17 immunity. Selectively increased intestinal Th17 responses in mice with Treg cell-specific IL-27 ablation led to exacerbated intestinal inflammation and colitis-associated cancer, but also helped protect against enteric bacterial infection. Furthermore, single-cell transcriptomic analysis has identified a CD83+TCF1+ Treg cell subset that is distinct from previously characterized intestinal Treg cell populations as the main IL-27 producers. Collectively, our study uncovers a novel Treg cell suppression mechanism crucial for controlling a specific type of immune response in a particular tissue, and provides further mechanistic insights into tissue-specific Treg cell-mediated immune regulation.

Intravenous tissue plasminogen activator for acute ischemic stroke in patients with renal dysfunction

OBJECTIVE

This study used the Taiwan Stroke Registry data to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) in treating acute ischemic stroke in patients with renal dysfunction.

DESIGN

We identified 3525 ischemic stroke patients and classified them into two groups according to the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at the emergency department: ≥60, and <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 or on dialysis and by the propensity score from August 2006 to May 2015. The odds ratio of poor functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale ≥2) was calculated for patients with tPA treatment (N = 705), compared to those without tPA treatment (N = 2820), by eGFR levels, at 1, 3 and 6 months after ischemic stroke. We also evaluated the risks of intracerebral hemorrhage, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, mortality, between the two groups by eGFR levels.

RESULTS

Among patients with eGFR levels of <60 ml/min/1.73 m2, tPA therapy reduced the odds ratio of poor functional outcome to 0.60 (95% confidence interval = 0.42-0.87) at 6 months after ischemic stroke. The tPA therapy was not associated with increased overall risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, but with increased risk of intracerebral hemorrhage. The low eGFR was not a significant risk factor of intracerebral hemorrhage among ischemic stroke patients receiving tPA treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

tPA for acute ischemic stroke could improve functional outcomes without increasing the risks of upper gastrointestinal bleeding for patients with or without renal dysfunction. The low eGFR was not a significant risk factor for intracerebral hemorrhage among patients receiving tPA treatment.

Effect of acupuncture on atrial fibrillation stratified by CHA2DS2-VASc score-a nationwide cohort investigation

OBJECTIVE

This research aimed to make statements regarding the reduction in atrial fibrillation (AF) risk due to acupuncture, stratified by CHA2DS2-VASc score.

METHODS

The Kaplan-Meier method was performed to calculate cumulative incidence of outcomes for each group, and the log-rank test were performed to compare differences between groups. Incidences and hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated by univariate Cox proportional hazards models, and adjusted HRs (aHRs) were estimated by multivariate Cox proportional hazards models including demographic covariates and comorbid status.

RESULTS

In CHA2DS2-VASc scores of 0-1, 2-3, 4-5 and >5, cases with acupuncture were all associated with decreased incidence of AF (aHR 0.46 with 95% CI 0.42-0.51, P < 0.001 in the CHA2DS2-VASc scores of 0-1; aHR 0.53 with 95% CI 0.50-0.57, P < 0.001 in the CHA2DS2-VASc scores of 2-3; aHR 0.56 with 95% CI 0.52-0.61, P < 0.001 in the CHA2DS2-VASc scores of 4-5; and aHR 0.64 with 95% CI 0.55-0.74, P < 0.001 in the CHA2DS2-VASc scores of >5).

CONCLUSION

Protective effect of acupuncture on AF was observed in this study, and the effect was more obvious for those with fewer comorbidities.

Investigate clinical characteristics and genetic mutations of CPVT patients in Taiwan and risk stratification

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Ministry of Science and Technology

Background

Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) is a rare and lethal arrhythmia in children and young adults. RYR2 mutation accounts for 60% of CPVT patients. While many articles about CPVT are published in the Caucasian population, only a few studies are based on Asian ethnicity. A CPVT scorecard proposed using Caucasian patients is proven effective in reducing the burden of variants of uncertain significance (VUS) of RYR2 mutations is not yet tested in the Asian population.

Purpose

Identify mutations among Taiwanese CPVT patients and compare genetic and clinical results with other ethnicities. We also tested the efficacy of the CPVT scorecard in Taiwanese CPVT patients.

Methods

40 clinically diagnosed CPVT patients and their family members were consecutively enrolled from multi-centers. We compared clinical characteristics and genetic results with other ethnicities, and applied the Caucasian CPVT scorecard to test whether it is applicable in Taiwanese CPVT patients.

Results

This is the first nationwide CPVT cohort in Taiwan. Among the 29 patients with CPVT-related gene mutation, 12 RYR2 variants was identified in our cohort with 5 of them unreported in previous studies. The RYR2 yield rate was 55%, similar to other ethnicities. Exercise-induced symptoms including syncope and cardiac arrest were more severe in Taiwanese CPVT cohort, compared to Japanese and Caucasian cohorts. The CPVT scorecard also successfully reduced the VUS rate for the Taiwanese cohort.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated genetic difference in CPVT patients across ethnicities, suggesting the importance of genetic testing in Taiwan. The CPVT scorecard is applicable to Taiwanese CPVT patients and is a helpful tool in interpreting genetic test results in clinical practice. Clinical characteristics of the cohort Gender (male, %) 15 (52%) Mean age of onset (years) 18 ± 15 Exercise-related syncope or cardiac arrest (n, %) 23 (79%) Exercise-related cardiac arrest (n, %) 14 (48%) Family history of unexplained sudden cardiac death (n, %) 5 (17%) Heart rate (bpm) 73 ± 16 Exercise stress test or Holter positive (n, %) 14 (48%) Ventricular arrhythmia (n, %) 23 (79%) Beta-blockers only (n, %) 10 (35%) Intracardiac defibrillator implantation (n, %) 15 (52%) CPVT score 6 ± 3

Impact of changing reimbursement criteria on statin treatment patterns among patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or cardiovascular risk factors

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE

Starting 1 August 2013, the eligible cholesterol level for statin reimbursement in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) or cardiovascular disease (CVD)-related risk factors changed from LDL-C ≥ 130 mg/dl (or TC ≥ 200 mg/dl) to LDL-C ≥ 100 mg/dl (or TC ≥ 160 mg/dl) in Taiwan, which may modify clinician prescribing behaviours. We aimed to evaluate the impact of changing reimbursement criteria on statin treatment patterns.

METHODS

A before-after cohort design was conducted using Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database. Differences in statin treatment patterns between the pre- and postregulation periods were compared. Two prespecified study cohorts were identified to examine the impacts of this change on those who need statins for "secondary prevention" (patients newly diagnosed with ASCVD) and those who need statins for "primary prevention" (patients newly diagnosed with CVD-related risk factors, such as diabetes mellitus [DM]). Treatment patterns measured in this study included initiation, discontinuation, switching, dose increase, dose decrease and dose maximization.

RESULTS

The proportion of patients who initiated statins during the postregulation period was higher than that of patients who initiated statins during the preregulation period (eg coronary heart disease (CHD) patients, pre- vs. postregulation: 41.23% vs. 48.25%). Notably, only 30%-40% of patients initiated statin use in the postregulation period across different conditions. In addition, the proportion of patients who discontinued statins remained very high. Even in the postregulation period, more than half of CHD patients discontinued statins during the 1-year follow-up period (eg CHD patients, pre- vs. postregulation: 59.07% vs. 52.75%).

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION

The new reimbursement criteria started on 1 August 2013 seemed to lower the barriers of access to the first statin prescription among patients with CHD, cerebrovascular disease (CBVD) and DM. Nevertheless, the proportion of patients who initiated statin use was suboptimal, and the proportion of patients who discontinued statins was very high in the postregulation period.

Hypoglycemic activity of extracts of Chamaecyparis obtusa var. formosana leaf in rats with hyperglycemia induced by high-fat diets and streptozotocin

Chamaecyparis obtusa var. formosana is a species indigenous to Taiwan and has been used as a medicinal plant. It has been claimed that the hot water extracts of C. obtusa var. formosana leaves (CoLE) with flavonoids and proanthocyanidins have anti-oxidant and anti-hyperglycemic activities in vitro. This study further examines the anti-hyperglycemic activity of CoLE and its possible mechanisms in hyperglycemic rats. Hyperglycemia of rats was induced by streptozotocin (STZ) and high-fat diets (HFD). Hyperglycemic rats treated orally with 30 and 150 mg/kg CoLE were classified into LCO and HCO groups, respectively. After three-month treatment, both LCO and HCO groups showed improved glucose metabolism in oral glucose tolerance and postprandial blood glucose tests. Decrease in HOMA-IR, leptin and adiponectin levels of the HCO group revealed amelioration of insulin and leptin resistance. Obesity and accumulation of visceral fats induced by STZ and HFD could be alleviated in both HCO and LCO groups. These anti-diabetic effects might be contributed by inhibition of intestinal digested enzymes and protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPases). Although other studies are necessary, these findings suggest that CoLE could be potentially used as a health complement for treating diabetes without significant toxicity.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease increases the prevalence of maintenance haemodialysis in patients with chronic kidney disease

AIM

To investigate the association between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and incidence of maintenance haemodialysis in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

METHODS

We enrolled patients diagnosed with CKD between 2001 and 2007. The patients were categorized into two groups based on abdominal ultrasound finding, namely those with NAFLD and those without NAFLD. The disease (maintenance haemodialysis)-free survival rate was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses was used to evaluate the hazard ratios of covariates for the incidence of maintenance haemodialysis.

RESULTS

A total of 161 patients (61 with NAFLD and 100 without NAFLD) were enrolled. The mean age was 69.3 years. The mean follow-up was 7.4 years. The patients with NAFLD had an increased incidence of maintenance haemodialysis (39.3 % vs 24.0 %; p=0.0396) and inferior disease-free survival rate (p=0.006). Furthermore, diabetes (p=0.0126) and proteinuria (p=0.0003) were identified as significant predictors of CKD progression.

CONCLUSION

NAFLD was associated with an increased incidence of maintenance haemodialysis and inferior disease-free survival rate. NAFLD may impair renal function and patients with renal impairment should be monitored carefully (Tab. 3, Fig. 1, Ref. 25) Keywords: non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, haemodialysis, chronic kidney disease, proteinuria.

Suppressing migration and invasion of H1299 lung cancer cells by honokiol through disrupting expression of an HDAC6-mediated matrix metalloproteinase 9

Metastasis is the crucial mechanism to cause high mortality in lung cancer. Degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) by proteolytic enzymes, especially matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), is a key process for promoting cancer cell migration and invasion. Therefore, targeting MMPs might be a strategy for lung cancer metastasis suppression. Honokiol, a biological active component of Magnolia officinalis, has been indicated to suppress lung cancer tumorigenesis through epigenetic regulation. However, the regulation of MMPs‐mediated migration and invasion by honokiol through epigenetic regulation in lung cancer is still a mystery. In the present study, the migration and invasion ability of H1299 lung cancer was suppressed by noncytotoxic concentrations of honokiol treatment. The proteolytic activity of MMP‐9, rather than MMP‐2, was inhibited in honokiol‐treated H1299 cells. Honokiol‐inhibited MMP‐9 expression was through promoting MMP‐9 protein degradation rather than suppressing transcription mechanism. Furthermore, the expression of specific histone deacetylases 6 (HDAC6) substrate, acetyl‐α‐tubulin, was accumulated after honokiol incubation. The disassociation of MMP‐9 with hyper‐acetylated heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) was observed resulting in MMP‐9 degradation after honokiol treatment. Meanwhile, honokiol‐suppressed MMP‐9 expression and invasion ability of H1299 lung cancer cells was rescued by HDAC6 overexpression. Accordingly, the results suggested that the suppression of migration and invasion activities by honokiol was through inhibiting HDAC6‐mediated Hsp90/MMP‐9 interaction and followed by MMP‐9 degradation in lung cancer.

Antiplatelet agents for the secondary prevention of ischaemic stroke in patients with or without renal dysfunction

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Studies on using antiplatelet agents for secondary prevention in ischaemic stroke patients with renal dysfunction are limited. The Taiwan Stroke Registry database was used to compare the efficacy of antiplatelet agents.

METHODS

From the Taiwan Stroke Registry data, 39 174 acute ischaemic stroke patients were identified and were classified into three groups by antiplatelet agent: aspirin, clopidogrel and dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with a combination of aspirin and clopidogrel. The re-stroke incidence and 1-year mortality were stratified by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) levels at admission: ≥90, 60-89 and <60 ml/min/1.73 m² or on dialysis.

RESULTS

Compared to the aspirin group, the re-stroke differences were not statistically significant for the clopidogrel group [adjusted subhazard ratio 0.95, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.84-1.08] and the DAPT group (adjusted subhazard ratio 1.03, 95% CI 0.77-1.39) after controlling for the competing risk of death. The mortality rate increased as the eGFR level declined. In addition, compared to patients taking aspirin, there was no statistically significant difference in overall 1-year mortality for the clopidogrel group (adjusted hazard ratio 1.11, 95% CI 0.95-1.29) and for the DAPT group (adjusted hazard ratio 1.01, 95% CI 0.67-1.54). The results were consistent in different subgroups stratified by eGFR levels.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no difference in the risks of recurrent stroke and 1-year mortality amongst ischaemic stroke patients with or without renal dysfunction receiving antiplatelet agents with aspirin, clopidogrel or dual agents with a combination of aspirin and clopidogrel, regardless of their renal dysfunction status.

Is serum uric acid a predictive factor for stroke in men with hypertriglyceridemia?

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the association between serum uric acid (sUA) and stroke risk in men with hypertriglyceridemia.

METHODS

Between 2002 and 2012, male patients with pure hypertriglyceridemia and a triglyceride (TG) level ≥ 150 mg/dL were enrolled. Eligible patients were categorized into two groups according to their sUA levels (≥ and < 8 mg/dL). Clinical characteristics and comorbidities that are risk factors for stroke were recorded and compared between the groups.

RESULTS

A total of 265 male patients (95 with sUA ≥ 8 mg/dL and 170 with sUA < 8 mg/dL) were enrolled. The incidence of ischemic type of stroke was significantly higher in patients with sUA ≥ 8 mg/dL (p = 0.038), particularly in the age range of 45-65 years. Multivariate Cox proportional analyses confirmed that age (p = 0.003) and UA (p = 0.019) were major predictive factors for stroke free (ischemic type of stroke) survival.

CONCLUSION

Among men with hypertriglyceridemia, the incidence rate of ischemic type of stroke significantly increased with sUA levels ≥ 8 mg/dL, particularly in men aged 45 to 65 years. Hyperuricemia is considered a potential predictive factor for ischemic type of stroke and may indicate the need for preventive management in patients with hypertriglyceridemia (Tab. 3, Fig. 1, Ref. 28).

Combination immunosuppressant therapy and lupus nephritis outcome: a hospital-based study

Lupus nephritis (LN) is the leading cause of mortality in lupus patients. This study aimed to investigate the treatment outcome and renal histological risk factors of LN in a tertiary referral center. Between 2006 and 2017, a retrospective observational study enrolled 148 biopsy-proven LN patients. After propensity score matching, 75 cases were included for further analysis. The classification and scoring of LN were assessed according to the International Society of Nephrology/Renal Pathology Society. Treatment response was evaluated by daily urine protein and urinalysis at two years after commencing induction treatment and the development of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). In total, 50.7% patients achieved complete remission (CR) or partial remission (PR), while 49.3% patients were categorized as nonresponders. Therapeutic responses in terms of CR/PR rates were associated with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index scores (odds ratio (OR): 1.34, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.12-1.60, p = 0.001). Moreover, higher baseline creatinine levels (hazard ratio (HR): 2.10, 95% CI: 1.29-3.40, p = 0.003), higher renal activity index (HR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.07-1.58, p = 0.008) and chronicity index (HR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.06-1.85, p = 0.017) predicted ESRD. Among pathological scores, cellular crescents (HR: 4.42, 95% CI: 1.01-19.38, p = 0.049) and fibrous crescents (HR: 5.93, 95% CI: 1.41-24.92, p = 0.015) were independent risk factors for ESRD. In conclusion, higher lupus activity was a good prognostic marker for renal remission. Renal histology was predictive of ESRD. Large-scale prospective studies are required to verify the efficacy of mycophenolate in combination with azathioprine or cyclosporine in LN patients.

Antihyperglycemic activities of twig extract of indigenous cinnamon (Cinnamomum osmophloeum) on high-fat diet and streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemic rats

BACKGROUND

Cinnamomum osmophloeum (indigenous cinnamon) is an endemic species in Taiwan and its twigs contain abundant A-type proanthocyanidins. C. osmophloeum twig extracts (CoTEs) were found to have α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activities in vitro. The aim of this study is to further investigate the antihyperglycemic activity of CoTEs in hyperglycemic rats.

RESULTS

Hyperglycemic rats were divided into three groups and were treated orally with high-dosage CoTEs (HCO, 150 mg kg^-1 ), low-dosage CoTEs (LCO, 30 mg kg^-1 ) and positive control (PC, 30 mg kg^-1 pioglitazone). The HCO group showed improved glucose tolerance in an oral glucose tolerance test after 1 month of treatment, contributed by the inhibition of intestinal disaccharidases, amylase, and lipase. Compared with the PC group, both the HCO and LCO groups had decreased weight of visceral fats and lower atherogenic index; while their low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, food intake, feed efficiency, and biochemical parameters remained unchanged compared with the NC group. Furthermore, the HCO group had decreased weight gain and the LCO group had decreased serum leptin level.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that CoTE has potential antihyperglycemic activities for treating hyperglycemia without weight gain. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

Characteristics of proanthocyanidins in leaves of Chamaecyparis obtusa var. formosana as strong α-glucosidase inhibitors

BACKGROUND

In recent decades, there has been a growing demand for natural products with a view to using them as α-glucosidase inhibitors for reducing postprandial hyperglycemia. In this study, the hot water extract (HWE) from Chamaecyparis obtusa var. formosana (Hayata) Rehder (Cupressaceae) leaves and its soluble fractions were screened for α-glucosidase inhibition properties. The n-butanol-soluble fraction of HWE was further fractionated into 14 subfractions (B1-B14) using a Sephadex LH-20 column. The α-glucosidase-inhibitory activities and proanthocyanidin contents of all subfractions were determined. The structural characteristics of proanthocyanidins in proanthocyanidin-rich fractions were also elucidated.

RESULTS

HWE produced a dose-dependent inhibition of α-glucosidase at low dose. Its IC₅₀ value was 1.4 µg mL^-1 , showing high inhibitory activity. Subfractions B7-B14 displayed powerful α-glucosidase-inhibitory activities with IC₅₀ values ranging between 1 and 0.015 µg mL^-1 and contained abundant proanthocyanidins exceeding 300 mg g^-1 . The proanthocyanidins with higher mean degree of polymerization (mDP), higher proportions of procyanidin dimer (A1 or A2) and (epi)afzelechin of extension units and a lower proportion of epicatechin of terminal units displayed high α-glucosidase-inhibitory activities.

CONCLUSION

Proanthocyanidins in HWE were viewed as potential natural α-glucosidase inhibitors for decreasing postprandial hyperglycemia. The results indicated that specific structural characteristics of proanthocyanidins would be required for α-glucosidase-inhibitory activity. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effect of Selenization Processes on CIGS Solar Cell Performance

Cu(In, Ga)Se2 (CIGS) films were fabricated by a two-step process method using sputtering from Cu0.7Ga0.3 and In targets. The metallic precursor structures of In/CuGa/In were prepared, and CuGa film was adjusted to the thicknesses of 150, 200, 250 and 300 nm, in order to optimize the CIGS film. After selenization, three independent CIGS (112), CIGS (220/204) and CIGS (312/116) began to crystallize at ~280 °C and phase peaks continued growing until 560 °C. Experimental results showed that with a single stage selenization method, the excessive stoichiometry of the CIGS films was obtained. Using three sequential stages for the selenization process, with a annealing time of 20 min, the stoichiometry of the CIGS absorbers with the Cu/(In + Ga) and Ga/(In + Ga) showed atomic ratios of 0.94 and 0.34, respectively. The intensity of the (112) XRD diffraction peak became stronger, indicating an improvement in the crystallinity. Raman spectra of CIGS absorbers showed a main peak (174 cm-1) and two weak signals (212 and 231 cm-1). TEM image for electron diffraction pattern showed that the grains were randomly oriented. CIGS solar cell device prepared with a proper selenization, a maximum efficiency of 12.45% was obtained.

Urinary Markers of Fibrosis and Risk of Cardiovascular Events and Death in Kidney Transplant Recipients: The FAVORIT Trial

Cardiovascular risk remains high in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) despite improved kidney function after transplant. Urinary markers of kidney fibrosis and injury may help to reveal mechanisms of this risk. In a case-cohort study among stable KTRs who participated in the FAVORIT trial, we measured four urinary proteins known to correlate with kidney tubulointerstitial fibrosis on biopsy (urine alpha 1 microglobulin [α1m], monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 [MCP-1], procollagen type I [PINP] and type III [PIIINP] N-terminal amino peptide) and evaluated associations with cardiovascular disease (CVD) events (n = 300) and death (n = 371). In adjusted models, higher urine α1m (hazard ratio [HR] per doubling of biomarker 1.40 [95% confidence interval [CI] 1.21, 1.62]), MCP-1 (HR 1.18 [1.03, 1.36]), and PINP (HR 1.13 [95% CI 1.03, 1.23]) were associated with CVD events. These three markers were also associated with death (HR per doubling α1m 1.51 [95% CI 1.32, 1.72]; MCP-1 1.31 [95% CI 1.13, 1.51]; PINP 1.11 [95% CI 1.03, 1.20]). Higher concentrations of urine α1m, MCP-1, and PINP may identify KTRs at higher risk for CVD events and death. These markers may identify a systemic process of fibrosis involving both the kidney and cardiovascular system, and give new insights into mechanisms linking the kidney with CVD.

Structural characterization and bioactivity of proanthocyanidins from indigenous cinnamon (Cinnamomum osmophloeum)

BACKGROUND

Barks and twigs of common species of cinnamon with abundant proanthocyanidins are used as a spice, fold medicine or supplement. Cinnamomum osmophloeum is an endemic species in Taiwan and coumarin was not detected in the oil of the C. osmophloeum twig. The present study aimed to evaluate the relationship between the bioactivities and proanthocyanidins of C. osmophloeum twig extracts (CoTE). The n-butanol soluble fraction from CoTE was divided into 10 subfractions (F1-F10) by Sephadex LH-20 gel chromatography. The antihyperglycemic activities were examined by α-glucosidase, α-amylase and protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B inhibitory assays. Total antioxidant activities were examined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging and ferrous ion-chelating assays.

RESULTS

The results revealed that subfractions F6-F10, with high proanthocyanidin contents, showed excellent antihyperglycemic and antioxidant activities. Subfractions F6-F10 were analyzed further by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight/mass spectrometry and thiolysis-reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry methods. The results showed that the mean degrees of polymerization of proanthocyanidins in subfractions F6-F10 ranged from 3.5 to 5.1, with the highest degrees of polymerization of proanthocyanidins reaching 8 in subfractions F8-F10. Two compounds in F6 were identified as cinnamtannin B1 and parameritannin A1. These proanthocyanidins contained at least one A-type and major B-type linkages.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate that proanthocyanidins are associated with their antihyperglycemic and antioxidant activities in CoTE. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

MR imaging of displaced meniscal tears of the knee: Importance of a “disproportional posterior horn sign”

Purpose: Meniscal tears associated with displaced fragments are clinically significant. We propose the "disproportional posterior horn sign" as a supportive criterion to identify a posterocentrally displaced meniscal fragment on MR imaging studies. If the meniscal posterior horn in the central portion appears larger than that in the peripheral section, it is considered positive for "disproportional posterior horn sign".

Material and Methods: MR images obtained in 42 patients with 43 lesions, confirmed to have displaced meniscal tears, were included in this study. The MR images were retrospectively evaluated for the presence of the "disproportional posterior horn sign", as well as the other known signs.

Results: The "disproportional posterior horn sign" was seen in 9 (20.9%) of 43 lesions, including 1 lateral discoid meniscal tear, 5 lateral meniscal tears and 3 medial meniscal tears. Five of them also had other signs of a displaced meniscal fragment. However, the remaining 4 cases only exhibited the "disproportional posterior horn sign". For the other MR signs, the "absent bow tie sign" was detected in 40 (93%) of 43 lesions, the "flipped meniscus sign" in 27 (62.8%) of 43 lesions, the "double posterior cruciate ligament sign" in 17 (39.5%) of 43 lesions and the "notch fragment sign" in 22 (51.2%) of 43 lesions.

Conclusion: The "disproportional posterior horn sign" is helpful in demonstrating a posterocentrally displaced meniscal fragment, especially when other characteristic signs are unremarkable or absent.

Progenitor-like cells derived from mouse kidney protect against renal fibrosis in a remnant kidney model via decreased endothelial mesenchymal transition

Introduction

Pathophysiological changes associated with chronic kidney disease impair angiogenic processes and increase renal fibrosis. Progenitor-like cells derived from adult kidney have been previously used to promote regeneration in acute kidney injury, even though it remained unclear whether the cells could be beneficial in chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

In this study, we established a CKD model by five-sixths nephrectomy and mouse kidney progenitor-like cells (MKPCs) were intravenously administered weekly for 5 weeks after establishing CKD. We examined the impact of MKPCs on the progression of renal fibrosis and the potential of MKPCs to preserve the angiogenic process and prevent endothelial mesenchymal transition in vivo and in vitro.

Results

Our results demonstrate that the MKPCs delayed interstitial fibrosis and the progression of glomerular sclerosis and ameliorated the decline of kidney function. At 17 weeks, the treated mice exhibited lower blood pressures, higher hematocrit levels, and larger kidney sizes than the control mice. In addition, the MKPC treatment prolonged the survival of the mice with chronic kidney injuries. We observed a decreased recruitment of macrophages and myofibroblasts in the interstitium and the increased tubular proliferation. Notably, MKPC both decreased the level of vascular rarefaction and prevented endothelial mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) in the remnant kidneys. Moreover, the conditioned medium from the MKPCs ameliorated endothelial cell death under hypoxic culture conditions and prevented TGF-β-induced EndoMT through downregulation of phosphorylated Smad 3 in vitro.

Conclusions

MKPCs may be a beneficial treatment for kidney diseases characterized by progressive renal fibrosis. The enhanced preservation of angiogenic processes following MKPC injections may be associated with decreased fibrosis in the remnant kidney. These findings provide further understanding of the mechanisms involved in these processes and will help develop new cell-based therapeutic strategies for regenerative medicine in renal fibrosis.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13287-015-0241-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Synthetic (+)-antroquinonol exhibits dual actions against insulin resistance by triggering AMP kinase and inhibiting dipeptidyl peptidase IV activities

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The fungal product (+)-antroquinonol activates AMP kinase (AMPK) activity in cancer cell lines. The present study was conducted to examine whether chemically synthesized (+)-antroquinonol exhibited beneficial metabolic effects in insulin-resistant states by activating AMPK and inhibiting dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP IV) activity.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Effects of (+)-antroquinonol on DPP IV activity were measured with a DPPIV Assay Kit and effects on GLP-1-induced PKA were measured in AR42J cells. Translocation of the glucose transporter 4, GLUT4, induced either by insulin-dependent PI3K/AKT signalling or by insulin-independent AMPK activation, was assayed in differentiated myotubes. Glucose uptake and GLUT4 translocation were assayed in L6 myocytes. Mice with diet-induced obesity were used to assess effects of acute and chronic treatment with (+)-antroquinonol on glycaemic control in vivo.

KEY RESULTS

The results showed that of (+)-antroquinonol (100 μM ) inhibited the DPP IV activity as effectively as the clinically used inhibitor, sitagliptin. The phosphorylation of AMPK Thr(172) in differentiated myotubes was significantly increased by (+)-antroquinonol. In cells simultaneously treated with S961 (insulin receptor antagonist), insulin and (+)-antroquinonol, the combination of (+)-antroquinonol plus insulin still increased both GLUT4 translocation and glucose uptake. Further, (+)-antroquinonol and sitagliptin reduced blood glucose, when given acutely or chronically to DIO mice.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Chemically synthesized (+)-antroquinonol exhibits dual effects to ameliorate insulin resistance, by increasing AMPK activity and GLUT4 translocation, along with inhibiting DPP IV activity.

Analysis of household data on influenza epidemic with Bayesian hierarchical model

Data used for modelling the household transmission of infectious diseases, such as influenza, have inherent multilevel structures and correlated property, which make the widely used conventional infectious disease transmission models (including the Greenwood model and the Reed-Frost model) not directly applicable within the context of a household (due to the crowded domestic condition or socioeconomic status of the household). Thus, at the household level, the effects resulting from individual-level factors, such as vaccination, may be confounded or modified in some way. We proposed the Bayesian hierarchical random-effects (random intercepts and random slopes) model under the context of generalised linear model to capture heterogeneity and variation on the individual, generation, and household levels. It was applied to empirical surveillance data on the influenza epidemic in Taiwan. The parameters of interest were estimated by using the Markov chain Monte Carlo method in conjunction with the Bayesian directed acyclic graphical models. Comparisons between models were made using the deviance information criterion. Based on the result of the random-slope Bayesian hierarchical method under the context of the Reed-Frost transmission model, the regression coefficient regarding the protective effect of vaccination varied statistically significantly from household to household. The result of such a heterogeneity was robust to the use of different prior distributions (including non-informative, sceptical, and enthusiastic ones). By integrating out the uncertainty of the parameters of the posterior distribution, the predictive distribution was computed to forecast the number of influenza cases allowing for random-household effect.

Subdural hematoma in diabetic patients

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Subdural hematoma (SDH) is associated with a high mortality rate. However, the risk of SDH in diabetic patients has not been well studied. The aim of the study was to examine the risk of SDH in incident diabetic patients.

METHODS

From a universal insurance claims database of Taiwan, a cohort of 28,045 incident diabetic patients from 2000 to 2005 and a control cohort of 56,090 subjects without diabetes were identified. The incidence and hazard ratio of SDH were measured by the end of 2010.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up years were 7.24 years in the diabetes cohort and 7.44 years in the non-diabetes cohort. The incidence of SDH was 1.57-fold higher in the diabetes cohort than in the non-diabetes cohort (2.04 vs. 1.30 per 1000 person-years), with an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.63 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.43-1.85]. The stratified data showed that adjusted hazard ratios were 1.51 (95% CI 1.28-1.77) for traumatic SDH and 1.89 (95% CI 1.52-2.36) for non-traumatic SDH. The 30-day mortality rate for those who developed SDH in the diabetes cohort was 8.94%.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that incident diabetic patients are at higher risk of SDH than individuals without diabetes. Proper intervention for diabetic patients is necessary for preventing the devastating disorder.

Dose effect of thiazolidinedione on cancer risk in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients: a six-year population-based cohort study

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE

Prior studies found that thiazolidinediones (TZDs) might have tumour-suppressor activity mediated through cell-cycle arrest, induction of apoptosis and inhibition of cell invasion. The main objective of this study was to investigate the effects of TZDs on the risk of cancer among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM).

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with DM between 1 January 1998 and 31 December 2002 were identified from the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database (LHID) within the Taiwan National Health Insurance (NHI) programme. Using Cox regression models, we assessed the association between prescribed TZDs and cancer risk, TZDs' dose effect and the association between TZDs and specific cancer types. Hazard ratios (HR) were adjusted for potential confounders (age, gender, income, Charlson score index, metformin and insulin use).

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The adjusted HRs for those prescribed TZD were 0·74 (95% CI 0·43-1·26, P = 0·27), 0·39 (95% CI 0·33-0·45, P < 0·001) and 0·49 (95% CI 0·27-0·89, P = 0·02), respectively, relative to non-DM patients, DM patients prescribed other anti-DM drugs besides TZDs and DM patients not prescribed any anti-DM drugs. In addition, the effects of TZDs were shown to be significantly dose dependent (P for trend < 0·001). The risk of breast, brain, colorectal, ear-nose-throat, kidney, liver, lung, lymphatic, prostate, stomach, and uterus cancer was significantly lower in those prescribed TZDs.

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSIONS

The results showed a decrease in cancer risk in diabetic patients using TZD, and the association was dose dependent.

A multicentre, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled Phase III study to investigate EXtending the time for Thrombolysis in Emergency Neurological Deficits (EXTEND)

BACKGROUND AND HYPOTHESIS

Thrombolytic therapy with tissue plasminogen activator is effective for acute ischaemic stroke within 4·5 h of onset. Patients who wake up with stroke are generally ineligible for stroke thrombolysis. We hypothesized that ischaemic stroke patients with significant penumbral mismatch on either magnetic resonance imaging or computer tomography at three- (or 4·5 depending on local guidelines) to nine-hours from stroke onset, or patients with wake-up stroke within nine-hours from midpoint of sleep duration, would have improved clinical outcomes when given tissue plasminogen activator compared to placebo.

STUDY DESIGN

EXtending the time for Thrombolysis in Emergency Neurological Deficits is an investigator-driven, Phase III, randomized, multicentre, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Ischaemic stroke patients presenting after the three- or 4·5-h treatment window for tissue plasminogen activator and within nine-hours of stroke onset or with wake-up stroke within nine-hours from the midpoint of sleep duration, who fulfil clinical (National Institutes of Health Stroke Score ≥4-26 and prestroke modified Rankin Scale <2) will undergo magnetic resonance imaging or computer tomography. Patients who also meet imaging criteria (infarct core volume <70 ml, perfusion lesion : infarct core mismatch ratio >1·2, and absolute mismatch >10 ml) will be randomized to either tissue plasminogen activator or placebo.

STUDY OUTCOME

The primary outcome measure will be modified Rankin Scale 0-1 at day 90. Clinical secondary outcomes include categorical shift in modified Rankin Scale at 90 days, reduction in the National Institutes of Health Stroke Score by 8 or more points or reaching 0-1 at day 90, recurrent stroke, or death. Imaging secondary outcomes will include symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage, reperfusion and or recanalization at 24 h and infarct growth at day 90.

Thigh muscle volume predicted by anthropometric measurements and correlated with physical function in the older adults

OBJECTIVES

(1) to correlate thigh muscle volume measured by magnetic resonance image (MRI) with anthropometric measurements and physical function in elderly subjects; (2) to predict MRI-measured thigh muscle volume using anthropometric measurements and physical functional status in elderly subjects.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional, nonrandomized study.

SETTING

Outpatient clinic in Taiwan.

PARTICIPANTS

Sixty-nine elderly subjects (33 men and 36 women) aged 65 and older.

MEASURMENTS

The anthropometric data (including body height, body weight, waist size, and thigh circumference), physical activity and function (including grip strength, bilateral quadriceps muscle power, the up and go test, chair rise, and five meters walk time) and bioelectrical impedance analysis data (including total body fat mass, fat-free mass, and predictive muscle size) were measured. MRI-measured muscle volume of both thighs was used as the reference standard.

RESULTS

The MRI-measured thigh volume was positively correlated with all anthropometric data, quadriceps muscle power and the up and go test as well as fat-free mass and predictive muscle mass, whereas it was negatively associated with age and walk time. In predicting thigh muscle volume, the variables of age, gender, body weight, and thigh circumference were significant predictors in the linear regression model: Muscle volume (cm3) =4226.3－42.5 × Age (year)－955.7 × gender (male=1, female=2) + 45.9 × body weight(kg) + 60.0 × thigh circumference (cm) (r2 = 0.745, P < 0.001; standard error of the estimate = 581.6 cm3).

CONCLUSION

The current work provides evidence of a strong relationship between thigh muscle volume and physical function in the elderly. We also developed a prediction equation model using anthropometric measurements. This model is a simple and noninvasive method for everyday clinical practice and follow-up.

Microstructural effects on the magnetic and magneto-transport properties of electrodeposited Ni nanowire arrays

The magnetic and magneto-transport properties of Ni nanowire (NW) arrays, fabricated by electrodeposition in anodic-aluminum-oxide (AAO) templates, have been investigated. The AAO pores have diameters ranging from 35 to 75 nm, and the crystallinity of the Ni NW arrays could change from poly-crystalline to single-crystalline with the [111] and [110] orientations based on the electrodeposition potential. Notably, double switching magnetization loops and double-peaked magnetoresistance curves were observed in [110]-oriented NWs. The crystalline orientation of the Ni NW arrays is found to influence the corresponding magnetic and magneto-transport properties significantly. These magnetic behaviors are dominated by the competition between the magneto-crystalline and shape anisotropy.

Unusual manifestations of vertebral osteomyelitis: intraosseous lesions mimicking metastases

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Vertebral osteomyelitis can have different imaging manifestations. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the unusual MR imaging patterns of vertebral osteomyelitis with intraosseous lesions mimicking metastases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From September 2000 to August 2007, 7 patients were selected from our data base of 214 patients with confirmed vertebral osteomyelitis and MR images. All of those having misinterpreted MR imaging reports and unusual imaging patterns were analyzed. The presence of a peripheral curvilinear area of low signal intensity in an osseous lesion (the rim sign) and a peripheral rim of high signal intensity on T2-weighted images around an osseous lesion (the halo sign) was evaluated. Follow-up MR imaging studies were performed in all patients.

RESULTS

The patients were 5 men and 2 women, with an age range of 42-80 years. MR imaging findings of those with vertebral osteomyelitis showed a solitary lesion in 2 and multiple lesions in 5 patients. The intraosseous lesions revealed low signal intensity on T1-weighted images, mixed or high signal intensity on T2-weighted images, high signal intensity on short tau inversion recovery images, and global or marginal enhancement. The rim sign was found in 6 (86%) patients; halo sign, in 7 (100%); preserved intervertebral disks, in 7 (100%); and limited paraspinal or epidural inflammation, in 6 (86%). Images of all patients demonstrated healing or almost healed changes on the follow-up MR imaging studies.

CONCLUSION

Vertebral osteomyelitis can have MR imaging patterns mimicking osseous metastases. Recognition of these unusual imaging manifestations, together with clinical and histopathologic analysis, may aid in reaching the correct diagnosis.

Fructus Corni suppresses hepatic gluconeogenesis related gene transcription, enhances glucose responsiveness of pancreatic beta-cells, and prevents toxin induced beta-cell death

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Fructus Corni, the fruits of Cornus officinalis Sieb. et Zucc., is one important ingredient in Quei Fu Di Huang Wan, a Chinese herbal mixture.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In the present study, additional anti-diabetic actions of Fructus Corni on transcriptional regulation of hepatic gluconeogenesis or beta-cell functions were investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Insulin mimetic action of Fructus Corni on dexamethasone and 8-bromo-cAMP induced phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) expression in H4IIE cells was investigated. Besides, BRIN-BD11 cells were used to evaluate both insulinotropic and beta-cell protective effect of Fructus Corni.

RESULTS

Firstly, both methanol extract (CO-W-M) and fraction (CO-W-M2) had potent insulin mimic activity on PEPCK expression. Secondly, possibility of both loganin and ursolic acid as the responsible compounds was excluded. Moreover, indication of the existence of phenolic compounds in CO-W-M2 was noticed. In the presence of CO-W-M2, not only was the viability of BRIN-BD11 cells treated with alloxan, streptozotcin, or cytokine mix all significantly increased but also glucose-stimulated insulin secretion was potentiated.

CONCLUSIONS

The ability of CO-W-M2 to reduce gene expression for hepatic gluconeogenesis, to protect beta-cell against toxic challenge, and to enhance insulin secretion strengthen the role of Fructus Corni in diabetes therapy.

Second-trimester diagnosis of limb-body wall complex with literature review of pathogenesis

Three fetuses having limb-body wall complex (LBWC) with craniofacial defects and 9 fetuses having LBWC without craniofacial defects were diagnosed and delivered in the second trimester at Mackay Memorial Hospital during the period January 1990 - May 2006. Cases of LBWC with craniofacial defects showed severe anomalies of the upper limbs, craniofacial defects, constrictive amniotic bands and cranioplacental attachment, whereas, cases of LBWC without craniofacial defects presented major anomalies of the lower limbs, abnormal genitalia, anal atresia, renal defects, abdominoplacental attachment and umbilical cord abnormalities. The perinatal findings of LBWC with or without craniofacial defects were compared and the pathogenesis was discussed.

Developing an NLP and IR-based algorithm for analyzing gene-disease relationships

OBJECTIVES

High-throughput techniques such as cDNA microarray, oligonucleotide arrays, and serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE) have been developed and used to automatically screen huge amounts of gene expression data. However, researchers usually spend lots of time and money on discovering gene-disease relationships by utilizing these techniques. We prototypically implemented an algorithm that can provide some kind of predicted results for biological researchers before they proceed with experiments, and it is very helpful for them to discover gene-disease relationships more efficiently.

METHODS

Due to the fast development of computer technology, many information retrieval techniques have been applied to analyze huge digital biomedical databases available worldwide. Therefore we highly expect that we can apply information retrieval (IR) technique to extract useful information for the relationship of specific diseases and genes from MEDLINE articles. Furthermore, we also applied natural language processing (NLP) methods to do the semantic analysis for the relevant articles to discover the relationships between genes and diseases.

RESULTS

We have extracted gene symbols from our literature collection according to disease MeSH classifications. We have also built an IR-based retrieval system, "Biomedical Literature Retrieval System (BLRS)" and applied the N-gram model to extract the relationship features which can reveal the relationship between genes and diseases. Finally, a relationship network of a specific disease has been built to represent the gene-disease relationships.

CONCLUSIONS

A relationship feature is a functional word that can reveal the relationship between one single gene and a disease. By incorporating many modern IR techniques, we found that BLRS is a very powerful information discovery tool for literature searching. A relationship network which contains the information on gene symbol, relationship feature, and disease MeSH term can provide an integrated view to discover gene-disease relationships.

Infrared thermography to mass-screen suspected SARS patients with fever

Fever greater than 38 degrees C is a cardinal sign of patients with the severe acute respiratory syndromes (SARS). To reduce the risk of nosocomial cross infections, screening all patients and visitors who visit hospitals and clinics for fever at the entrance of every hospital building has become a standard protocol in Taiwan during the SARS epidemic from mid-April to mid-June 2003. We used a digital infrared thermal imaging (DITI) system (Telesis Spectrum 9000 MB) to conduct mass screening of patients and visitors who entered the hospital to identify those with fever. The DITI system has two components: a sensor head and a PC imaging workstation. The sensor head is an optic-mechanical device which consists of imagining optics for focusing the infrared source information on the infrared detector. The infrared images are further converted into electrical signals, which are then processed for real-time display on the monitor. During the period from April 13 to May 12 2003, 72,327 outpatients and visitors entered Taipei Medical University-Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. A total of 305 febrile patients (0.42%) was detected by infrared thermography. Among them, three probable SARS patients were identified after thorough studies including contact history, laboratory tests and radiology examinations. The findings suggests that infrared thermography was an effective and reliable tool ideal for mass-screening patients with fever in the initial phase of screening for SARS patients at a busy hospital which sees approximately 3,000 outpatients every weekday during the SARS epidemic.

Amyloid-β peptide enhances tumor necrosis factor-α-induced iNOS through neutral sphingomyelinase/ceramide pathway in oligodendrocytes

Although accumulating evidence demonstrates that white matter degeneration contributes to pathology in Alzheimer's disease (AD), the underlying mechanisms are unknown. In order to study the roles of the amyloid-beta peptide in inducing oxidative stress damage in white matter of AD, we investigated the effects of amyloid-beta peptide 25-35 (Abeta) on proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)-induced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in cultured oligodendrocytes (OLGs). Although Abeta 25-35 by itself had little effect on iNOS mRNA, protein, and nitrite production, it enhanced TNF-alpha-induced iNOS expression and nitrite generation in OLGs. Abeta, TNF-alpha, or the combination of both, increased neutral sphingomyelinase (nSMase) activity, but not acidic sphingomyelinase (aSMase) activity, leading to ceramide accumulation. Cell permeable C2-ceramide enhanced TNF-alpha-induced iNOS expression and nitrite generation. Moreover, the specific nSMase inhibitor, 3-O-methyl-sphingomyelin (3-OMS), inhibited iNOS expression and nitrite production induced by TNF-alpha or by the combination of TNF-alpha and Abeta. Overexpression of a truncated mutant of nSMase with a dominant negative function inhibited iNOS mRNA production. 3-OMS also inhibited nuclear factor kappaB (NF-kappaB) binding activity induced by TNF-alpha or by the combination of TNF-alpha and Abeta. These results suggest that neutral sphingomyelinase/ceramide pathway is required but may not be sufficient for iNOS expression induced by TNF-alpha and the combination of TNF-alpha and Abeta.

Assessment: transcranial Doppler ultrasonography: report of the Therapeutics and Technology Assessment Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology

OBJECTIVE

To review the use of transcranial Doppler ultrasonography (TCD) and transcranial color-coded sonography (TCCS) for diagnosis.

METHODS

The authors searched the literature for evidence of 1) if TCD provides useful information in specific clinical settings; 2) if using this information improves clinical decision making, as reflected by improved patient outcomes; and 3) if TCD is preferable to other diagnostic tests in these clinical situations.

RESULTS

TCD is of established value in the screening of children aged 2 to 16 years with sickle cell disease for stroke risk (Type A, Class I) and the detection and monitoring of angiographic vasospasm after spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (Type A, Class I to II). TCD and TCCS provide important information and may have value for detection of intracranial steno-occlusive disease (Type B, Class II to III), vasomotor reactivity testing (Type B, Class II to III), detection of cerebral circulatory arrest/brain death (Type A, Class II), monitoring carotid endarterectomy (Type B, Class II to III), monitoring cerebral thrombolysis (Type B, Class II to III), and monitoring coronary artery bypass graft operations (Type B to C, Class II to III). Contrast-enhanced TCD/TCCS can also provide useful information in right-to-left cardiac/extracardiac shunts (Type A, Class II), intracranial occlusive disease (Type B, Class II to IV), and hemorrhagic cerebrovascular disease (Type B, Class II to IV), although other techniques may be preferable in these settings.

Involvement of nucleophosmin/B23 in TPA-induced megakaryocytic differentiation of K562 cells

Human myelogenous leukaemia K562 cells were induced to undergo megakaryocytic differentiation by treatment with phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) (20 nM, 24–72 h). The steady-state level of nucleophosmin/B23 mRNA decreased during the TPA-induced differentiation. There was also decrease in the level of cellular nucleophosmin/B23 protein and appearance of its degraded product (25 kDa) during the TPA-induced differentiation. Furthermore, K562/B23 (wild type), K562/D1 (Δ280–294) and K562/D2 (Δ263–294) cells were less, while K562/D3 (Δ244–294) cells were more responsive to TPA-induced differentiation as compared to K562/vector or parental K562 cells. Activation of the ERK/MAPK was observed in parental K562 cells upon TPA treatment (5 nM, 5–30 min). As compared to K562/vector cells, less activation of ERK/MAPK was observed in K562/D2 cells, while ERK/MAPK was highly activated in K562/D3 cells upon TPA treatment. Our results indicate that nucleophosmin/B23 plays an important role in TPA-induced differentiation of K562 cells and the amino acids 244–294 at C-terminal of nucleophosmin/B23 could be an important site for regulation of cellular response to differentiation.

Dose reconstruction for residents living in buildings with moderate and minor 60Co contamination in rebar

Previously, we have reconstructed cohort dependent individual doses for residents living in rebar buildings of high 60Co contamination. These reconstructions were carried out using intensively collected TLD data on exposure rates at locations of 1 m height and 1 m x 1 m intersections. The present work deals with dose reconstructions for residents living in rebar buildings of moderate and minor 60Co contamination. Since only limited data on exposure rates from survey meters were available, dose reconstructions were based on these data using interpolations. To utilize such data, we examined them with respect to all factors that influenced the dose uncertainties. The interpolated results were given in terms of contour plots (isodose curves) and compared with corresponding results derived from TLD data and Monte Carlo simulations. The comparison revealed that survey meter data could be used to provide reasonable and conservative estimates of residential doses. By applying the cohort-dependent room occupancy factor and the site-dependent area occupancy factor, we reconstructed cohort dependent individual doses and associated uncertainties. Results of dose reconstructions for all residents living in contaminated rebar buildings were provided to the Atomic Energy Council and health authorities for epidemiologic and medical uses.

Zinc translocation accelerates infarction after mild transient focal ischemia

Excess release of chelatable zinc (Zn(2+)) from central synaptic vesicles may contribute to the pathogenesis of selective neuronal cell death following transient forebrain ischemia, but a role in neurodegeneration after focal ischemia has not been defined. Adult male Long-Evans rats subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 30 min followed by reperfusion developed delayed cerebral infarction reaching completion 3 days after the insult. One day after the insult, many degenerating cerebral neurons exhibited increased intracellular Zn(2+), and some labeled with the antibody against activated caspase-3. I.c.v. administration of the Zn(2+) chelator, EDTA saturated with equimolar Ca(2+) (CaEDTA), 15 min prior to ischemia attenuated subsequent Zn(2+) translocation into cortical neurons, and reduced infarct volume measured 3 days after ischemia. Although the protective effect of CaEDTA at this endpoint was substantial (about 70% infarct reduction), it was lost when insult severity was increased (from 30 to 60 min MCAO), or when infarct volume was measured at a much later time point (14 days instead of 3 days after ischemia). These data suggest that toxic Zn(2+) translocation, from presynaptic terminals to post-synaptic cell bodies, may accelerate the development of cerebral infarction following mild transient focal ischemia.

Successful treatment with weekly paclitaxel in a patient with recurrent endometrial cancer. A case report

The best treatment for recurrent endometrial cancer is still uncertain, although weekly paclitaxel has shown some promise in the management of this disease. In this report we present a patient with recurrent endometrial cancer treated with weekly paclitaxel. Serial power Doppler angiography was used to assess the effects of therapy. The response was good, suggesting that recurrent endometrial cancer may be successfully treated with weekly paclitaxel and effectively monitored with power Doppler angiography.

Amyloid-beta induces Smac release via AP-1/Bim activation in cerebral endothelial cells

Insoluble fibrils of amyloid-beta peptide (Abeta) are the major component of senile and vascular plaques found in the brains of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. Abeta has been implicated in neuronal and vascular degeneration because of its toxicity to neurons and endothelial cells in vitro; some of these cells die with characteristic features of apoptosis. We used primary cultures of murine cerebral endothelial cells (CECs) to explore the mechanisms involved in Abeta-induced cell death. We report here that Abeta(25-35), a cytotoxic fragment of Abeta, induced translocation of the apoptosis regulator termed second-mitochondria-derived activator of caspase (Smac) from the intramembranous compartment of the mitochondria to the cytosol 24 hr after exposure. In addition, we demonstrated that X chromosome-linked inhibitor-of-apoptosis protein (XIAP) coimmunoprecipitated with Smac, suggesting that the two proteins bound to one another subsequent to the release of Smac from the mitochondria. Abeta(25-35) treatment also led to rapid AP-1 activation and subsequent expression of Bim, a member of the BH3-only family of proapoptotic proteins. Bim knockdown using an antisense oligonucleotide strategy suppressed Abeta(25-35)-induced Smac release and resulted in attenuation of CEC death. Furthermore, AP-1 inhibition, with curcumin or c-fos antisense oligonucleotide, reduced bim expression. These results suggest that Abeta activates an apoptotic cascade involving AP-1 DNA binding, subsequent bim induction, followed by Smac release and binding to XIAP, resulting in CEC death.