Search for Boosted Dark Matter in COSINE-100

We search for energetic electron recoil signals induced by boosted dark matter (BDM) from the galactic center using the COSINE-100 array of NaI(Tl) crystal detectors at the Yangyang Underground Laboratory. The signal would be an excess of events with energies above 4 MeV over the well-understood background. Because no excess of events are observed in a 97.7  kg·yr exposure, we set limits on BDM interactions under a variety of hypotheses. Notably, we explored the dark photon parameter space, leading to competitive limits compared to direct dark photon search experiments, particularly for dark photon masses below 4 MeV and considering the invisible decay mode. Furthermore, by comparing our results with a previous BDM search conducted by the Super-Kamionkande experiment, we found that the COSINE-100 detector has advantages in searching for low-mass dark matter. This analysis demonstrates the potential of the COSINE-100 detector to search for MeV electron recoil signals produced by the dark sector particle interactions.

Respiratory microbiome profiles are associated with distinct inflammatory phenotype and lung function in children with asthma

BACKGROUND

Respiratory microbiome studies have fostered our understanding of various phenotypes and endotypes of heterogeneous asthma. However, the relationship between the respiratory microbiome and clinical phenotypes in children with asthma remains unclear. We aimed to identify microbiome-driven clusters reflecting the clinical features of asthma and their dominant microbiotas in children with asthma.

METHODS

Induced sputum was collected from children with asthma, and microbiome profiles were generated via sequencing of the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. Cluster analysis was performed using the partitioning around medoid clustering method. The dominant microbiota in each cluster was determined using the Linear Discriminant Effect Size analysis. Each cluster was analyzed for association among the dominant microbiota, clinical phenotype, and inflammatory cytokine.

RESULTS

Eighty-three children diagnosed with asthma were evaluated. Among four clusters reflecting the clinical characteristics of asthma, cluster 1, dominated by Haemophilus and Neisseria, demonstrated lower post-bronchodilator (BD) forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (FVC) than that in the other clusters and more mixed granulocytic asthma. Neisseria negatively correlated with pre-BD and post-BD FEV1/FVC. Haemophilus and Neisseria positively correlated with programmed death-ligand (PD-L)1.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this study is the first to analyze the relationship between an unbiased microbiome-driven cluster and clinical phenotype in children with asthma. The cluster dominated by Haemophilus and Neisseria showed fixed airflow obstruction and mixed granulocytic asthma, which correlated with PD-L1 levels. Thus, microbiome-driven unbiased clustering can help identify new asthma phenotypes related to endotypes in childhood asthma.

Downregulated miRNAs associated with auditory deafferentation and compensatory neural plastic changes following single-sided deafness in the inferior colliculi of rats

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Deafferentation and compensatory neural plastic changes in the inferior colliculus (IC) have been suggested following single-sided deafness (SSD). We explored related miRNA changes in the IC of SSD rats using miRNA microarray analyses.

METHODS

Eight-week-old rats were divided into control and SSD rats (n = 8 for each group). SSD rats underwent right-side cochlear ablation surgery, with the IC harvested two weeks post-surgery. miRNA microarray analysis was performed using GeneChip miRNA 4.0, microarray (Affymetrix Inc.). miRNAs whose expression levels differed between SSD and control rats with a fold-change ≥1.5 and P < 0.05 were examined using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs were predicted using TargetScan software. The pathways related to predicted target genes were analyzed. mRNA levels of predicted target genes were estimated using qRT-PCR.

RESULTS

The expression of miR-15b-5p, miR-202-5p, and miR-212-3p was lower in the contralateral (left) IC of SSD rats than that of control rats. In SSD rats, miRNA expression levels in the contralateral IC were 0.45-, 0.25-, and 0.50-fold lower for miR-15b-5p, miR-202-5p, and miR-212-3p, respectively (P < 0.05). The expression of predicted target genes (Spred1, Rasa1, Lsm11, and Srsf1) was higher in the contralateral IC of SSD rats than in control rats. The targets were predicted to be related with cleavage of growing transcripts in the termination region, mitogen-activated protein kinase family signaling cascades, RAF/AMP kinase cascade, regulation of RAS by GTPase activating proteins (GAPs), and RNA polymerase II transcription termination. For ipsilateral ICs, miR-425-3p, miR-199a-5p, and miR-134-3p showed lower expressions in SSD rats than in control rats, which were 0.55-, 0.61-, and 0.69-fold lower, respectively (P < 0.05). The expression of predicted target genes (Atp2b2, Grin2b, Foxp1, Ztbt20, Zfp91, and Strn) was higher in the ipsilateral IC of SSD rats; the regulation of synaptic plasticity, cAMP signaling pathway, metal ion binding, and calcium ion transport can be associated with these target genes.

CONCLUSION

Adult rats with unilateral auditory deprivation showed miRNA changes in the IC. The contralateral IC showed decreased miRNA expression predicted to be related to MAPK and RAS signaling, whereas the ipsilateral IC revealed decreased miRNA expression predicted to be associated with synaptic plasticity and calcium ion transport.

Brain charts for the human lifespan

Over the past few decades, neuroimaging has become a ubiquitous tool in basic research and clinical studies of the human brain. However, no reference standards currently exist to quantify individual differences in neuroimaging metrics over time, in contrast to growth charts for anthropometric traits such as height and weight1. Here we assemble an interactive open resource to benchmark brain morphology derived from any current or future sample of MRI data ( http://www.brainchart.io/ ). With the goal of basing these reference charts on the largest and most inclusive dataset available, acknowledging limitations due to known biases of MRI studies relative to the diversity of the global population, we aggregated 123,984 MRI scans, across more than 100 primary studies, from 101,457 human participants between 115 days post-conception to 100 years of age. MRI metrics were quantified by centile scores, relative to non-linear trajectories2 of brain structural changes, and rates of change, over the lifespan. Brain charts identified previously unreported neurodevelopmental milestones3, showed high stability of individuals across longitudinal assessments, and demonstrated robustness to technical and methodological differences between primary studies. Centile scores showed increased heritability compared with non-centiled MRI phenotypes, and provided a standardized measure of atypical brain structure that revealed patterns of neuroanatomical variation across neurological and psychiatric disorders. In summary, brain charts are an essential step towards robust quantification of individual variation benchmarked to normative trajectories in multiple, commonly used neuroimaging phenotypes.

Alleviation of renal ischemia/reperfusion injury by exosomes from induced pluripotent stem cell-derived mesenchymal stem cells

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Renal ischemia followed by reperfusion (I/R) is a leading cause of acute kidney injury (AKI), which is closely associated with high morbidity and mortality. Studies have shown that induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived mesenchymal stem cells (iMSCs) exert powerful therapeutic effects in renal ischemia. However, the efficacy of iMSC-derived exosomes (iExo) on I/R injuries remains largely unknown.

METHODS

Human iPSCs were differentiated into iMSCs using a modified one-step method. Ultrafiltration, combined with purification, was used to isolate iExo from iMSCs. iExo was administered following I/R injury in a mouse model. The effect of iExo on I/R injury was assessed through changes in renal function, histology, and expression of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis markers. Further, we evaluated its association with the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 signaling pathway.

RESULTS

Mice subjected to I/R injury exhibited typical AKI patterns; serum creatinine level, tubular necrosis, apoptosis, inflammatory cytokine production, and oxidative stress were markedly increased compared to sham mice. However, treatment with iExo attenuated these changes, significantly improving renal function and tissue damage, similar to the renoprotective effects of iMSCs on I/R injury. Significant induction of activated ERK 1/2 signaling molecules was observed in mice treated with iExo compared to those in the I/R injury group.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrates that iExo administration ameliorated renal damage following I/R, suggesting that iMSC-derived exosomes may provide a novel therapeutic approach for AKI treatment.

Effects of intranasal instillation of nanoparticulate matter in the olfactory bulb

Nanoparticulate matter activates the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) pathway in the respiratory system in a process involving the AhR nuclear translocator (ARNT) and cytochrome P450 family 1, member A1 (CYP1A1). We examined changes in AhR-related pathways following intranasal instillation of nanoparticulate matter in the olfactory bulb and cerebral cortex. Twice a day for 5 days per week for 1 week or 2 weeks, 8-week-old Sprague-Dawley rats were intranasally instilled with 10 µL nanoparticulate matter (nano group; n = 36). An equal volume of saline was intranasally instilled in control rats (n = 36). One week after intranasal instillation, olfactory function and Y-maze tests were performed. The expression levels of AhR in the olfactory bulb and temporal cortex were analyzed using western blotting and immunofluorescence assays. The expression levels of AhR, CYP1A1, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and five genes encoding cation transporters (ARNT, ATP7B, ATPB1, OCT1, and OCT2) in the olfactory bulb were analyzed using quantitative reverse transcription. The olfactory discrimination capability was reduced in the nano group compared with the control group. Proportional changes in the Y-maze test were not significantly different between the nano and control groups. AhR mRNA and protein expression in the olfactory bulb increased 1.71-fold (P < 0.001) and 1.60-fold (P = 0.008), respectively. However, no significant changes were observed in the temporal cortex. In the olfactory bulb, the expression of ARNT, ATP7B, ATPB1, and OCT2 was downregulated. CYP1A1 and iNOS expression in the olfactory bulb was upregulated compared with that in the temporal cortex. The intranasal instillation of nanoparticulate matter decreased the olfactory discrimination ability, which was accompanied by upregulation of AhR expression and downregulation of cation transporters in the olfactory bulb.

Development and in vitro evaluation of recombinant chicken promoters to efficiently drive transgene expression in chicken oviduct cells

Virus injection into EGK-X embryos is a well-defined approach in avian transgenesis. This system uses a chicken ovalbumin gene promoter to induce transgene expression in the chicken oviduct. Although a reconstructed chicken ovalbumin promoter that links an ovalbumin promoter and estrogen-responsive enhancer element (ERE) is useful, a large viral vector containing the ovalbumin promoter and a target gene restricts viral packaging capacity and produces low-titer virus particles. We newly developed recombinant chicken promoters by linking regulatory regions of ovalbumin and other oviduct-specific genes. Putative enhancer fragments of the genes, such as ovotransferrin (TF), ovomucin alpha subunit (OVOA), and ovalbumin-related protein X (OVALX), were placed at the 5`-flanking region of the 2.8-kb ovalbumin promoter. Basal promoter fragments of the genes, namely, pTF, lysozyme (pLYZ), and ovomucoid (pOVM), were placed at the 3`-flanking region of the 1.6-kb ovalbumin ERE. The recombinant promoters cloned into each reporter vector were evaluated using a dual luciferase assay in human and chicken somatic cells, and LMH/2A cells treated with 0-1,000 nM estrogen, and cultured primary chicken oviduct cells. The recombinant promoters with linking ovalbumin and TF, OVOA, pOVM, and pLYZ regulatory regions had 2.1- to 19.5-fold (P < 0.05) higher luciferase activity than the reconstructed ovalbumin promoter in chicken oviduct cells. Therefore, recombinant promoters may be used to efficiently drive transgene expression in transgenic chickens.

Overexpression of the receptor for advanced glycation end-products in the auditory cortex of rats with noise-induced hearing loss

BACKGROUND

The receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) is involved in neuroinflammation. This study investigated the changes in RAGE expression following noise-induced hearing loss.

METHODS

Three-week-old female Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to 115 dB SPL white noise for 4 h daily for 3 d (noise group, n = 16). In parallel, age and sex-matched control rats were raised under standard conditions without noise exposure (control group, n = 16). After 2 h (noise immediate, n = 8) and 4 wk (noise 4-week, n = 8) of noise exposure, the auditory cortex was harvested and cytoplasmic and nuclear fractions were isolated. The gene expression levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL6), interleukin 1 beta (IL1β), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), and RAGE were evaluated using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The protein expression levels of nuclear RAGE and cytosolic RAGE were evaluated using western blotting. Additionally, matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) was pharmacologically inhibited in the noise immediate group, and then nuclear and cytosolic RAGE expression levels were evaluated.

RESULTS

The noise immediate and noise 4-week groups exhibited increased auditory thresholds at 4, 8, 16, and 32 kHz frequencies. The genes encoding the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL6, IL1β, and NF- κB were increased 3.74, 1.63, 6.42, and 6.23-fold in the noise immediate group, respectively (P = 0.047, 0.043, 0.044, and 0.041). RAGE mRNA expression was elevated 1.42-fold in the noise 4-week group (P = 0.032). Cytosolic RAGE expression was increased 1.76 and 6.99-fold in the noise immediate and noise 4-week groups, respectively (P = 0.04 and 0.03). Nuclear RAGE expression was comparable between the noise and control groups. matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) inhibition reduced cytosolic RAGE expression in the noise immediate group (P = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Noise exposure increased the expression of cytosolic RAGE in the auditory cortex and upregulated pro-inflammatory genes, but this response could be alleviated by MMP9 inhibition.

Experimental demonstration of a 4,294,967,296-QAM-based Y-00 quantum stream cipher template carrying 160-Gb/s 16-QAM signals

We demonstrate a 4,294,967,296-quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) based Y-00 quantum stream cipher system carrying a 160-Gb/s 16-QAM signal transmitted over 320-km SSMF. The ultra-dense QAM cipher template is realized by an integrated two-segment silicon photonics I/Q modulator.

Changes in the Gene Expression Profiles of the Inferior Colliculus Following Unilateral Cochlear Ablation in Adult Rats

This study aimed to explore gene expression changes in the inferior colliculus (IC) after single-sided deafness (SSD). Forty 8-week-old female Sprague-Dawley rats were used. Twenty rats underwent right-side cochlear ablation, and IC tissues were harvested after 2 weeks (SSD 2-week group). Twenty rats underwent a sham operation and were sacrificed after 2 weeks (control group). Both sides of the IC were analyzed using a gene expression array. Pathway analyses were performed on genes that were differentially expressed compared with their levels in the control group. The expression levels of genes involved in the candidate pathways were confirmed using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Among the genes with ≥ 1.5-fold changes in expression levels and P < 0.05, there were 7 and 9 genes with increased and decreased expression, respectively, in the ipsilateral IC and 10 and 12 genes with increased and decreased expression, respectively, in the contralateral IC. The pathway analysis did not identify significantly related pathway. In the bilateral analysis, a total of 14 genes were ≥ 1.3-fold downregulated in both the ipsilateral and contralateral IC in the SSD 2-week group compared with their expression in the control group. Pathway analyses of these 14 genes included 7 genes, namely, amine compound solute carrier (Slc)5a7; Slc18a3; Slc6a5; synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2C (Sv2c); S100 calcium binding protein A10 (S100a10); a gene with sequence similarity to family 111, member A (Fam111a); and peripherin (Prph), that were related to the acetylcholine neurotransmitter release cycle, SLC transporters, and the neurotransmitter release cycle pathways. RT-PCR showed reduced expression of Slc5a7, Sv2c, and Prph in the contralateral IC and Slc18a3 and Slc6a5 in the ipsilateral IC of the SSD 2-week group compared with that in the control group.

Dose-Dependent Effects of Resveratrol on Cisplatin-Induced Hearing Loss

Previous preclinical studies have demonstrated the otoprotective effects of resveratrol (RV) at low doses. This study aimed to investigate the dose-dependent effects of RV in rats with cisplatin (CXP)-induced hearing loss. Sprague-Dawley rats (8-weeks old) were divided into six treatment groups (n = 12/group) and treated as follows: control, 0.5 mg/kg RV, 50 mg/kg RV, CXP, 0.5 mg/kg RV + CXP), and 50 mg/kg RV + CXP groups. CXP (3 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected for 5 days. RV (0.5 or 50 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected for 10 days from the first day of CXP administration. Auditory brainstem response (ABR) thresholds were measured before and within 3 days at the end of the drug administration. Cochlear tissues were harvested, and the outer hair cells were examined using cochlear whole mounts. The mRNA expression of NFκB, IL6, IL1β, and CYP1A1, and protein levels of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and cytosolic and nuclear receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE) were evaluated. The ABR threshold increased in the 50 mg/kg RV and CXP groups at 4, 8, 16, and 32 kHz. The 0.5 mg/kg RV + CXP group demonstrated decreased hearing thresholds at 4 and 32 kHz compared to the CXP group. Cochlear whole-mount analysis revealed loss of outer hair cells in the 50 mg/kg RV and CXP groups and partial prevention of these cells in the 0.5 mg/kg RV + CXP group. The mRNA expressions of NFκB, IL6, and IL1β were increased in the 50 mg/kg RV and CXP groups compared to the control group. In contrast, these levels were decreased in the 0.5 mg/kg RV + CXP group compared to the CXP group. The mRNA expression of CYP1A1 was increased in the CXP group, while it was decreased in the 0.5 mg/kg RV + CXP group compared to the control group. The protein levels of AhR and cytosolic RAGE decreased in the 0.5 mg/kg RV group. Low-dose RV had partial otoprotective effects on CXP ototoxicity. The otoprotective effects of RV may be mediated through anti-oxidative (CYP1A1 and RAGE) and anti-inflammatory (NFκB, IL6, and IL1β) responses. High-dose RV exerted an inflammatory response and did not ameliorate CXP-induced ototoxicity.

Effect of acute noise trauma on the gene expression profile of the hippocampus

Background

This study aimed to investigate the changes in the expression of hippocampal genes upon acute noise exposure.

Methods

Three-week-old Sprague–Dawley rats were assigned to control (n = 15) and noise (n = 15) groups. White noise (2–20 kHz, 115 dB sound pressure level [SPL]) was delivered for 4 h per day for 3 days to the noise group. All rats were sacrificed on the last day of noise exposure, and gene expression in the hippocampus was analyzed using a microarray. Pathway analyses were conducted for genes that showed differential expression ≥ 1.5-fold and P ≤ 0.05 compared to the control group. The genes included in the putative pathways were measured using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).

Results

Thirty-eight upregulated genes and 81 downregulated genes were identified. The pathway analyses revealed that upregulated genes were involved in the cellular responses to external stimuli and immune system pathways. qRT-PCR confirmed the upregulation of the involved genes. The downregulated genes were involved in neuronal systems and synapse-related pathways, and qRT-PCR confirmed the downregulation of the involved genes.

Conclusions

Acute noise exposure upregulated the expression of immune-related genes and downregulated the expression of neurotransmission-related genes in the hippocampus.

Giant Zero Bias Anomaly due to Coherent Scattering from Frozen Phonon Disorder in Quantum Point Contacts

We demonstrate an unusual manifestation of coherent scattering for electron waves in mesoscopic quantum point contacts, in which fast electron dynamics allows the phonon system to serve as a quasistatic source of disorder. The low-temperature conductance of these devices exhibits a giant (≫2e^{2}/h) zero bias anomaly (ZBA), the features of which are reproduced in a nonequilibrium model for coherent scattering from the "frozen" phonon disorder. According to this model, the ZBA is understood to result from the in situ electrical manipulation of the phonon disorder, a mechanism that could open up a pathway to the on-demand control of coherent scattering in the solid state.

Search for a Dark Matter-Induced Annual Modulation Signal in NaI(Tl) with the COSINE-100 Experiment

We present new constraints on the dark matter-induced annual modulation signal using 1.7 years of COSINE-100 data with a total exposure of 97.7 kg yr. The COSINE-100 experiment, consisting of 106 kg of NaI(Tl) target material, is designed to carry out a model-independent test of DAMA/LIBRA's claim of WIMP discovery by searching for the same annual modulation signal using the same NaI(Tl) target. The crystal data show a 2.7  cpd/kg/keV background rate on average in the 2-6 keV energy region of interest. Using a χ-squared minimization method we observe best fit values for modulation amplitude and phase of 0.0092±0.0067  cpd/kg/keV and 127.2±45.9  d, respectively.

First Direct Search for Inelastic Boosted Dark Matter with COSINE-100

A search for inelastic boosted dark matter (IBDM) using the COSINE-100 detector with 59.5 days of data is presented. This relativistic dark matter is theorized to interact with the target material through inelastic scattering with electrons, creating a heavier state that subsequently produces standard model particles, such as an electron-positron pair. In this study, we search for this electron-positron pair in coincidence with the initially scattered electron as a signature for an IBDM interaction. No excess over the predicted background event rate is observed. Therefore, we present limits on IBDM interactions under various hypotheses, one of which allows us to explore an area of the dark photon parameter space that has not yet been covered by other experiments. This is the first experimental search for IBDM using a terrestrial detector.

Diagnostic Performance of Multidetector Computerized Tomography in the Detection of Abdominal Complications Early and Late After Liver Transplantation: A 10-Year Experience

BACKGROUND

Multidetector computerized tomography (MDCT) is considered to be a fast noninvasive diagnostic technique for the evaluation of postoperative complications in patients with liver transplantation (LT). However, its role has not been fully established in the diagnosis for detecting complications after liver transplantation. The aim of this work was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of MDCT for detecting abdominal complications in the early and late periods after LT.

METHODS

We retrospectively enrolled 75 patients who had undergone LT from March 2006 to January 2010, followed by MDCT from March 2006 to November 2017. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the timing after LT: within the first 3 months (early period) or ≥3 months after LT (late period). We evaluated vascular, biliary, and other complications on MDCT. Angiography, endoscopic retrograde cholangiography, and percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography were used as reference standards.

RESULTS

We initially found 77 complications in 45 patients (60.0%) with the use of MDCT. After comparison with the reference standards, 83 complications were diagnosed in 49 patients (65.3%). Forty-seven complications (34 vascular, 10 biliary, 3 other complications) were diagnosed in 33 patients (44.0%) during the early period, and 36 complications (6 vascular, 20 biliary, 10 other complications) were detected in 27 patients (36.0%) in the late period. The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy of MDCT for diagnosing overall complications were, respectively, 93.6%, 90.2%, and 92.0% in the early period (for vascular complications: 97.1%, 92.6%, and 94.3%,; for biliary complications: 80.0%, 100%, and 97.7%) and 77.8%, 98.1%, and 89.8% in the late period (for vascular complications: 83.3%, 100%, and 98.9%; for biliary complications: 65.0%, 98.6%, and 90.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

Although MDCT in the late period should be interpreted with caution in patients with suspected biliary complication, MDCT is a reliable diagnostic technique for the identification of early and late abdominal complications after LT.

Tunable quad-band transmission response, based on single-layer metamaterials

We investigated the electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT)-like effects in planar metamaterials (MMs) at microwave (GHz) frequencies. The specific MMs that were used in this study consist of cut-wire resonator/ring resonator, which achieved the dual EIT-like effects in a single-layer through the bright- and quasi-dark-mode coupling and the lattice mode coupling. In addition, by varying the distance between the two resonators, the quad-band EIT spectral response in the microwave region was obtained, and the group refractive index at the EIT-like resonance of proposed design reached up to 4,000. This study provides the design approach to the multispectral EIT-like effects and might suggest potential applications in a variety of fields, for example, low-loss slow-light device, multiple switching sensor, and other sensing devices.

Depressive Symptoms, Falls, and Fear of Falling in Old Korean Adults: The Korean Longitudinal Study on Health and Aging (KLoSHA)

Fall is a common cause of disability and death in old adults, and much research has been focused on identifying risk factors and developing preventive measures. Yet the majority of preceding research has been focused on physical performance. This study aims to evaluate the association between fall and depressive symptoms in community-dwelling elderly. Cross-sectional data of 431 men and 546 women was collected from old Korean adults living in Seongnam, Korea. Geriatric fall assessment was conducted by self-report questionnaires. Depressive symptoms were assessed by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Results indicated that depressive symptoms were associated with both fall and fear of falling in old adults. A clear gender difference was newly discovered, as depression played a stronger role in women. These results imply that clinicians should consider the negative affect of geriatric patients when assessing fall risk. Also, measures against depression might be effective in reducing falls.

Activated leucocyte cell adhesion molecule (ALCAM/CD166) regulates T cell responses in a murine model of food allergy

Food allergy is a major public health problem. Studies have shown that long-term interactions between activated leucocyte cell adhesion molecule (ALCAM/CD166) on the surface of antigen-presenting cells, and CD6, a co-stimulatory molecule, influence immune responses. However, there are currently no studies on the functions of ALCAM in food allergy. Therefore, we aimed to identify the functions of ALCAM in ovalbumin (OVA)-induced food allergy using ALCAM-deficient mice. Wild-type (WT) and ALCAM-deficient (ALCAM^-/- ) mice were sensitized intraperitoneally and with orally fed OVA. The mice were killed, and parameters related to food allergy and T helper type 2 (Th2) immune responses were analysed. ALCAM serum levels increased and mRNA expression decreased in OVA-challenged WT mice. Serum immunoglobulin (Ig)E levels, Th2 cytokine mRNA and histological injuries were higher in OVA-challenged WT mice than in control mice, and these were attenuated in ALCAM^-/- mice. T cell proliferation of total cells, CD3⁺ CD4⁺ T cells and activated T cells in immune tissues were diminished in OVA-challenged ALCAM^-/- mice. Proliferation of co-cultured T cells and dendritic cells (DCs) was decreased by the anti-CD6 antibody. In addition, WT mice sensitized by adoptive transfer of OVA-pulsed ALCAM^-/- BM-derived DCs showed reduced immune responses. Lastly, serum ALCAM levels were higher in children with food allergy than in control subjects. In this study, serum levels of ALCAM were elevated in food allergy-induced WT mice and children with food allergy. Moreover, immune responses and T cell activation were attenuated in OVA-challenged ALCAM^-/- mice. These results indicate that ALCAM regulates food allergy by affecting T cell activation.

Femtosecond electron-phonon lock-in by photoemission and x-ray free-electron laser

The interactions that lead to the emergence of superconductivity in iron-based materials remain a subject of debate. It has been suggested that electron-electron correlations enhance electron-phonon coupling in iron selenide (FeSe) and related pnictides, but direct experimental verification has been lacking. Here we show that the electron-phonon coupling strength in FeSe can be quantified by combining two time-domain experiments into a "coherent lock-in" measurement in the terahertz regime. X-ray diffraction tracks the light-induced femtosecond coherent lattice motion at a single phonon frequency, and photoemission monitors the subsequent coherent changes in the electronic band structure. Comparison with theory reveals a strong enhancement of the coupling strength in FeSe owing to correlation effects. Given that the electron-phonon coupling affects superconductivity exponentially, this enhancement highlights the importance of the cooperative interplay between electron-electron and electron-phonon interactions.

Relationship between sputum clusterin levels and childhood asthma

BACKGROUND

Clusterin is a sensitive cellular biosensor of oxidative stress and has been studied as a biomarker for inflammation-associated diseases. Clusterin levels in childhood asthma have not been evaluated.

OBJECTIVES

(1) To evaluate sputum clusterin levels in children with asthma compared to a control group. (2) To assess the relationships between sputum clusterin levels and airway inflammation, pulmonary function, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness.

METHODS

This study included 170 children aged 5-18 years with stable asthma (n = 91), asthma exacerbation (n = 29), or no asthma (healthy controls; n = 50). Induced sputum, pulmonary function, and methacholine challenge tests were performed. Stable asthma was classified into two groups according to the severity. Clusterin levels in sputum were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

Children with stable asthma had a higher clusterin level than healthy controls [4540 (3872-5651) pg/mL vs. 3857 (1054-4369) pg/mL, P < 0.001]. The clusterin level was also more elevated in eosinophil-dominant sputum than in non-eosinophilic sputum in stable asthma [5094 (4243-6257) pg/mL vs. 4110 (1871-4839) pg/mL, P = 0.0017]. Clusterin levels were associated with asthma severity. Paradoxically, clusterin levels were lower during asthma exacerbation than in stable asthma [1838 (350-4790] pg/mL vs. 4540 (3872-5651) pg/mL, P < 0.001]. Clusterin levels were strongly correlated with the methacholine concentration that caused a 20% decrease in the forced expiratory volume in 1 s (r = -0.617, P < 0.001); there was no significant correlation between clusterin levels and other pulmonary function parameters.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Clusterin levels were altered in children with stable asthma and asthma exacerbation because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Clusterin may be a marker that reflects airway inflammation and severity of symptoms, and it can be used in the assessment and management of childhood asthma.

Effectiveness of 100 Beats per Minute Music on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Compression Rate Education: A Manikin Study

Introduction

Recent cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) guidelines emphasize the importance of high-quality chest compression. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of education using music on the chest compression rate.

Methods

This randomised, open-labeled study enrolled 81 medical students. They were randomly divided into three groups. After they were educated in CPR according to the American Heart Association 2010 guidelines, they performed 100 chest compressions using a mannequin capable of collecting each compression depth and speed. After that, the control group received a verbal feedback about their own results. The metronome group was also notified of their own results, and listened to the metronome sound at 100 beats per minute (bpm). The music group listened to the music (about 100 bpm). Twenty-four hours after their CPR education, chest compressions were performed again with the method identical to the first evaluation. The results were compared using multivariate analysis of variances.

Result

Compression rate (bpm): There was a significant difference between the control (mean, 110.4; 95% CI: 104.4, 116.5) and metronome group (mean, 98.5; 95% CI: 91.6, 105.4) after education (p=0.01). There was a significant difference between control and music group (mean, 98.2; 95% CI: 94.6, 101.8) after education (p<0.001) There were no differences between the music and metronome group before or after education (p=0.50, p=0.94). However, the variance of music group was significantly less than the metronome group (p=0.01). Compression depth (inches): there was no difference between the groups according to the CPR education method. (Control: 1.8±0.3; Metronome group: 1.6±0.2; Music group: 1.7±0.3 p=0.09)

Conclusion

Both education method of using music and metronome are more effective than conventional method. However the effect of using music may be better than using metronome.

Strong Spin-Phonon Coupling Mediated by Single Ion Anisotropy in the All-In-All-Out Pyrochlore Magnet Cd_{2}Os_{2}O_{7}

Spin-phonon coupling mediated by single ion anisotropy was investigated using optical spectroscopy and first-principles calculations in the all-in-all-out pyrochlore magnet Cd_{2}Os_{2}O_{7}. Clear anomalies were observed in both the phonon frequencies and linewidths at the magnetic ordering temperature. The renormalization of the phonon modes was exceptionally large, signifying the presence of an unconventional magnetoelastic term from large spin-orbit coupling. In addition, the relative phonon frequency shifts show a strong correlation with the modulation of noncubic crystal field by the corresponding lattice distortion. Our observation establishes a new type of spin-phonon coupling through single ion anisotropy, a second-order spin-orbit coupling term, in Cd_{2}Os_{2}O_{7}.

Increased expression of bitter taste receptors in human allergic nasal mucosa and their contribution to the shrinkage of human nasal mucosa

OBJECTIVE

Bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs) are expressed in the extraoral tissues, where they possess various physiological functions. This study is to characterize TAS2Rs expression in normal and allergic nasal mucosa and analyse nasal symptom after challenge with bitter tastes to evaluate their pathophysiological function in normal and allergic nasal mucosa.

METHODS

The expression levels of TAS2Rs (TAS2R4, 5, 7, 10, 14, 39, and 43) in nasal mucosa were investigated by real-time PCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry. The expression levels of TAS2Rs and Ca(2+) imaging in cultured epithelial cells were measured after stimulation with type 2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) or bitter tastes. Nasal symptoms in control subjects and allergic rhinitis patients using visual analogue score and acoustic rhinometry were evaluated before and after stimulation with bitter tastes. Vascular diameter of rat nasal septum was measured before and after treatment with bitter tastes.

RESULTS

TAS2Rs tested here were expressed in nasal mucosa where they were commonly distributed in superficial epithelium, submucosal glands, and endothelium. Their expression levels are increased in allergic nasal mucosa and up-regulated in cultured epithelial cells simulated with type 2 cytokines. After treatment with bitter tastes, intracellular Ca(2+) signalling was increased in cultured epithelial cells, and vascular constriction was found in rat nasal septum. Increased nasal patency was observed in human nasal mucosa without pain or sneezing.

CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

TAS2Rs are constitutively expressed in human nasal mucosa and their expression levels are increased in allergic nasal mucosa, where they could potentially contribute to shrinkage of normal and allergic nasal mucosa.

First-Line Use of Core Needle Biopsy for High-Yield Preliminary Diagnosis of Thyroid Nodules

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Although core needle biopsy was introduced as a diagnostic alternative to fine-needle aspiration, the utility and safety of core needle biopsy for thyroid nodules in a large population has yet to be studied comprehensively. We evaluate core needle biopsy yields on a large-scale basis to investigate its potential in the preliminary diagnosis of thyroid nodules.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between March 2005 and December 2013, 2448 initially detected thyroid nodules from 2120 consecutive patients who underwent core needle biopsy were retrospectively evaluated. Of these, 72 thyroid nodules from 63 patients were excluded due to prior fine-needle aspiration attempts. The inconclusive and conclusive result rates, diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and unnecessary surgery rate of core needle biopsy were evaluated.

RESULTS

With core needle biopsy as the first-line method, the inconclusive result rate was 11.9% (283/2376) and the conclusive result rate was 88.1% (2093/2376). The diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of core needle biopsy for the diagnosis of malignancy were 96.7% (1160/1200), 89.7% (347/387), 100% (813/813), 100% (347/347), and 95.3% (813/853), respectively. There were no major complications and 12 minor complications.

CONCLUSIONS

We have demonstrated that first-line use of core needle biopsy may well improve diagnostic accuracy in thyroid nodules, reducing inconclusive or false-negative results and unnecessary operations. Such benefits underscore the promising role of core needle biopsy in managing thyroid nodules and optimizing related surgical decision-making.

Ion gyroscale fluctuation measurement with microwave imaging reflectometer on KSTAR

Ion gyroscale turbulent fluctuations with the poloidal wavenumber k_θ ∼ 3 cm^-1 have been measured in the core region of the neutral beam (NB) injected low confinement (L-mode) plasmas on Korea superconducting tokamak advanced research. The turbulence poloidal wavenumbers are deduced from the frequencies and poloidal rotation velocities in the laboratory frame, measured by the multichannel microwave imaging reflectometer. Linear and nonlinear gyrokinetic simulations also predict the unstable modes with the normalized wavenumber k_θρ_s ∼ 0.4, consistent with the measurement. Comparison of the measured frequencies with the intrinsic mode frequencies from the linear simulations indicates that the measured ones are primarily due to the E × B flow velocity in the NB-injected fast rotating plasmas.

IgE cross-reactivity of peanut with walnut and soybean in children with food allergy

BACKGROUND

Peanut allergies are common and can be life-threating for sensitised individuals. Peanut allergens share significant amino acid homology with those of other legumes and tree nuts, but their cross-reactivity still remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to determine the clinical significance of the cross-reactivity of peanut allergens with those of walnut and soybean.

METHODS

Pooled sera from eight subjects with both peanut and walnut specific IgE were investigated in an inhibition test. After the sera were incubated with either peanut or walnut protein extracts, the quantity of IgE antibodies against the peanut and walnut was measured using an immunoCAP test. Likewise, pooled sera from 18 subjects with both peanut and soybean specific IgE antibodies were incubated with either peanut or soybean protein extracts and evaluated with a peanut and soybean immunoCAP test. SDS-PAGE and immunoblotting were also performed with peanut, walnut and soybean protein extracts and relevant sera.

RESULTS

Peanut specific IgE was inhibited up to 20% and 26% by walnut and soybean protein extracts, respectively. In reverse, walnut and soybean specific IgE were inhibited up to 21% and 23% by peanut protein extracts, respectively. In the immunoblot analysis, pooled serum from the subjects with peanut specific IgE antibodies reacted with walnut protein extracts significantly.

CONCLUSION

Although the clinical significance of the cross-reactivity of peanut specific IgE with walnut and soybean protein extracts has not been established, we believe that individuals who are allergic to peanuts need to be cautious about consuming walnuts and soybeans.

Effects of age, replicative lifespan and growth rate of human nucleus pulposus cells on selecting age range for cell-based biological therapies for degenerative disc diseases

Autologous disc cell implantation, growth factors and gene therapy appear to be promising therapies for disc regeneration. Unfortunately, the replicative lifespan and growth kinetics of human nucleus pulposus (NP) cells related to host age are unclear. We investigated the potential relations among age, replicative lifespan and growth rate of NP cells, and determined the age range that is suitable for cell-based biological therapies for degenerative disc diseases. We used NP tissues classified by decade into five age groups: 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s. The mean cumulative population doubling level (PDL) and population doubling rate (PDR) of NP cells were assessed by decade. We also investigated correlations between cumulative PDL and age, and between PDR and age. The mean cumulative PDL and PDR decreased significantly in patients in their 60s. The mean cumulative PDL and PDR in the younger groups (30s, 40s and 50s) were significantly higher than those in the older groups (60s and 70s). There also were significant negative correlations between cumulative PDL and age, and between PDR and age. We found that the replicative lifespan and growth rate of human NP cells decreased with age. The replicative potential of NP cells decreased significantly in patients 60 years old and older. Young individuals less than 60 years old may be suitable candidates for NP cell-based biological therapies for treating degenerative disc diseases.

Sarcopenia as a Predictor of Future Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults

OBJECTIVES

We investigated the association between the indices of sarcopenia and future risk of cognitive impairment in older adults.

DESIGN

Community-based prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Community.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 297 participants aged ≥65 years without cognitive impairment at baseline (mean age, 71.9 ± 6.6 years; men:women, 158:139) and who underwent cognitive evaluation at the 5-year follow-up.

MEASUREMENTS

Sarcopenia parameters including appendicular lean mass (ALM), handgrip strength, and the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) score at baseline were compared according to the later progression of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and/or dementia. The operational criteria suggested by the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health Sarcopenia Project were used. We performed multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify the independent indicators of the progression of cognitive impairment.

RESULTS

Among the 297 participants, 242 (81.5%) remained cognitively normal (nonprogression group), whereas 55 (18.5%) showed progression of cognitive impairment (50 subjects (16.8%) to MCI and 5 subjects (1.7%) to dementia) (progression group). Compared with the nonprogression group, subjects in the progression group were older, had a lower educational level, and had lower physical function as assessed by the SPPB; a higher percentage were depressed. Other baseline markers of sarcopenia, including the ALM-to-body mass index ratio and handgrip strength did not differ significantly between the groups. The association between a low SPPB score (<9) and progression of cognitive impairment was maintained after adjustment for conventional risk factors for cognitive impairment (hazard ratio 2.222, 95% confidence interval 1.047-4.716, P = 0.038).

CONCLUSION

Decreased physical performance, as assessed by the SPPB, but not other markers of sarcopenia, was independently associated with the risk of later cognitive impairment in older adults.

Optical Spectroscopic Studies of the Metal-Insulator Transition Driven by All-In-All-Out Magnetic Ordering in 5d Pyrochlore Cd(2)Os(2)O(7)

We investigated the metal-insulator transition (MIT) driven by all-in-all-out (AIAO) antiferromagnetic ordering in the 5d pyrochlore Cd(2)Os(2)O(7) using optical spectroscopy and first-principles calculations. We showed that the temperature evolution in the band-gap edge and free carrier density were consistent with rigid upward (downward) shifts of electron (hole) bands, similar to the case of Lifshitz transitions. The delicate relationship between the band gap and free carrier density provides experimental evidence for the presence of an AIAO metallic phase, a natural consequence of such MITs. The associated spectral weight change at high energy and first-principles calculations further support the origin of the MIT from the band shift near the Fermi level. Our data consistently support that the MIT induced by AIAO ordering in Cd(2)Os(2)O(7) is not close to a Slater type but instead to a Lifshitz type.

Pandemic influenza virus, pH1N1, induces asthmatic symptoms via activation of innate lymphoid cells

BACKGROUND

The pandemic strain of the influenza A virus (pH1N1) in 2009 caused many complications in patients. In this study, we introduce asthmatic symptoms as a complication of pH1N1 infection in children, not having a relationship with asthma history. The aim of this study was to quantify asthmatic symptoms in pH1N1-infected children and elucidate the underlying mechanisms of airway hyper-responsiveness (AHR) induced in a murine model of pH1N1 infection.

METHODS

As a retrospective study, pH1N1-infected children who were hospitalized with moderate to severe acute asthmatic symptoms were enrolled and administered a methacholine challenge test (MCT) at 3 months post-discharge. Additionally, the induction of AHR by pH1N1 infection was measured by MCT in wild-type and Rag1(-/-) mice. The effect of the innate immune response on the development of AHR following pH1N1 infection was investigated.

RESULTS

More than 70% of the pH1N1-infected children without a pre-infection diagnosis of asthma had a negative response on the MCT. None of these children had recurrent wheezing or asthma during the 3 years following pH1N1 infection. The development of AHR in pH1N1-infected mice was associated with an elevation in IL-33 and innate lymphoid cells 2 (ILC2).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that pH1N1 infection directly induces transient asthmatic symptoms in patients regardless of their medical history. pH1N1 infection was shown to stimulate the rapid development of AHR and Th2-type cytokine secretion in mice via the activation of ILC2; it may be activated independently of adaptive immunity.

Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level and the risk of mild cognitive impairment and dementia: the Korean Longitudinal Study on Health and Aging (KLoSHA)

OBJECTIVE

The association of low vitamin D status with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a preclinical condition that can lead to dementia, has not yet been fully explored. Our aim was to investigate the association between vitamin D status and the future risk of MCI and dementia in older adults.

DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

We conducted a population-based prospective study as a part of the Korean Longitudinal Study on Health and Aging. Four hundred and twelve elderly participants who completed evaluations of cognitive function and metabolic parameters in 2005-2006 and 2010-2011 were analysed.

MAJOR OUTCOME MEASURE

The rate of development of MCI or dementia during the study period was compared according to baseline vitamin D status. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate any independent association between vitamin D status and the risks of MCI or dementia.

RESULTS

Among 405 subjects that remained after excluding seven demented subjects at baseline, 338 subjects remained unchanged or improved in their diagnosis for cognitive function during the study period, whereas 67 subjects showed progression to MCI or dementia. When analyzing 236 subjects whose baseline mini-mental state examination (MMSE) scores were <27, severe vitamin D deficiency at baseline, defined as <25 nmol/l, was independently associated with the progression of cognitive impairment. Among 297 subjects who were normal at baseline, 50 acquired MCI and 247 remained normal. Severe vitamin D deficiency was also independently associated with the development of MCI when analyzing 145 subjects whose baseline MMSE scores were <27.

CONCLUSION

Severe vitamin D deficiency was independently associated with the future risk of MCI as well as dementia, especially in older adults whose baseline MMSE scores had decreased only modestly.

Direct characterization of photoinduced lattice dynamics in BaFe2As2

Ultrafast light pulses can modify electronic properties of quantum materials by perturbing the underlying, intertwined degrees of freedom. In particular, iron-based superconductors exhibit a strong coupling among electronic nematic fluctuations, spins and the lattice, serving as a playground for ultrafast manipulation. Here we use time-resolved X-ray scattering to measure the lattice dynamics of photoexcited BaFe₂As₂. On optical excitation, no signature of an ultrafast change of the crystal symmetry is observed, but the lattice oscillates rapidly in time due to the coherent excitation of an A_1g mode that modulates the Fe–As–Fe bond angle. We directly quantify the coherent lattice dynamics and show that even a small photoinduced lattice distortion can induce notable changes in the electronic and magnetic properties. Our analysis implies that transient structural modification can be an effective tool for manipulating the electronic properties of multi-orbital systems, where electronic instabilities are sensitive to the orbital character of bands.

In BaFe₂As₂, the lattice couples strongly to the magnetic and electronic degrees of freedom, providing a way to control them. Here, by means of time-resolved X-ray scattering, the authors measure rapid lattice oscillations, which can induce changes in the material's electronic and magnetic properties.

Responses of osteoblastic cell line MC3T3-E1 cell to the calcium channel blocker diltiazem and verapamil

The effects of the calcium channel blockers, diltiazem and verapamil, on osteoblastic functions were investigated in cultured osteoblastic cells MC3T3-E1. DNA synthesis was evaluated by the incorporation of [3H]thymidine, and collagen synthesis by measuring the incorporation of [3H]proline into collagenase-digestible protein (CDP) and noncollagen protein (NCP). Diltiazem inhibited the DNA synthesis of osteoblastic cells by up to 57.6 and 54.6% at concentrations of 25 and 50 microM. Verapamil also significantly inhibited DNA synthesis by up to 61.6 and 40.9% at concentrations of 25 and 50 microM. The percent control of CDP formation were decreased by up to 76.7% in 5 microM and 44.3% in 50 microM of diltiazem. Verapamil also decreased CDP synthesis to 49.7% at 10 microM and 32.6% at 50 microM. NCP synthesis was decreased by the calcium channel blocker but inhibition of the CDP formation was greater than that of NCP. The calculated percent collagen synthesis was decreased at a calcium channel blocker concentration of 10 microM. The inhibitory effects of diltiazem and verapamil on percent collagen synthesis were not reversed by increasing the calcium concentration of culture media by either 1 or 5 mM. From this study, we conclude that calcium channel blockers have a direct inhibitory effect on osteoblastic function. Long-term administration of diltiazem or verapamil produces adverse effects on normal bone metabolism.

Quasi 3D ECE imaging system for study of MHD instabilities in KSTAR

A second electron cyclotron emission imaging (ECEI) system has been installed on the KSTAR tokamak, toroidally separated by 1/16th of the torus from the first ECEI system. For the first time, the dynamical evolutions of MHD instabilities from the plasma core to the edge have been visualized in quasi-3D for a wide range of the KSTAR operation (B0 = 1.7∼3.5 T). This flexible diagnostic capability has been realized by substantial improvements in large-aperture quasi-optical microwave components including the development of broad-band polarization rotators for imaging of the fundamental ordinary ECE as well as the usual 2nd harmonic extraordinary ECE.

The influence of surgical factors on dislocation of the meniscal bearing after Oxford medial unicompartmental knee replacement: a case-control study

The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors for dislocation of the bearing after a mobile-bearing Oxford medial unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR) and to test the hypothesis that surgical factors, as measured from post-operative radiographs, are associated with its dislocation From a total of 480 UKRs performed between 2001 and 2012, in 391 patients with a mean age of 66.5 years (45 to 82) (316 female, 75 male), we identified 17 UKRs where bearing dislocation occurred. The post-operative radiological measurements of the 17 UKRs and 51 matched controls were analysed using conditional logistic regression analysis. The post-operative radiological measurements included post-operative change in limb alignment, the position of the femoral and tibial components, the resection depth of the proximal tibia, and the femoral component-posterior condyle classification. We concluded that a post-operative decrease in the posterior tibial slope relative to the pre-operative value was the only significant determinant of dislocation of the bearing after medial Oxford UKR (odds ratio 1.881; 95% confidence interval 1.272 to 2.779). A post-operative posterior tibial slope < 8.45° and a difference between the pre-operative and post-operative posterior tibial slope of > 2.19° may increase the risk of dislocation.

Protein Profile in Corpus Luteum during Pregnancy in Korean Native Cows

Steroidogenesis requires coordination of the anabolic and catabolic pathways of lipid metabolism, but the profile of proteins associated with progesterone synthesis in cyclic and pregnant corpus luteum (CL) is not well-known in cattle. In Experiment 1, plasma progesterone level was monitored in cyclic cows (n = 5) and pregnant cows (n = 6; until d-90). A significant decline in the plasma progesterone level occurred at d-19 of cyclic cows. Progesterone level in abbatoir-derived luteal tissues was also determined at d 1 to 5, 6 to 13 and 14 to 20 of cyclic cows, and d-60 and -90 of pregnant cows (n = 5 each). Progesterone level in d-60 CL was not different from those in d 6 to 13 CL and d-90 CL, although the difference between d 6 to 13 and d-90 was significant. In Experiment 2, protein expression pattern in CL at d-90 (n = 4) was compared with that in CL of cyclic cows at d 6 to 13 (n = 5). Significant changes in the level of protein expression were detected in 32 protein spots by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2-DE), and 23 of them were identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). Six proteins were found only in pregnant CL, while the other 17 proteins were found only in cyclic CL. Among the above 6 proteins, vimentin which is involved in the regulation of post-implantation development was included. Thus, the protein expression pattern in CL was disorientated from cyclic luteal phase to mid pregnancy, and alterations in specific CL protein expression may contribute to the maintenance of pregnancy in Korean native cows.

Improvement in survival associated with embolisation of spontaneous portosystemic shunt in patients with recurrent hepatic encephalopathy

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous portosystemic shunt (SPSS) is a frequent cause of recurrent hepatic encephalopathy (HE) in patients with cirrhosis.

AIM

To assess the effectiveness and optimal candidate selection for embolisation of SPSS, for the treatment of recurrent HE in patients with cirrhosis.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study compared 17 patients with recurrent HE who achieved complete occlusion of SPSS by angiographic embolisation and 17 control patients.

RESULTS

Most baseline characteristics were similar in the two groups. The 2-year HE recurrence rate was significantly lower in the embolisation than in the control group (39.9% vs. 79.9%, P = 0.02), whereas their 2-year overall survival rates were similar (64.7% vs. 53.4%, P = 0.98). Model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) and Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score were significant predictors of 2-year patient mortality in the embolisation group. Analysis of patients with MELD <15 in the absence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) showed that 2-year overall survival rate was significantly higher in the embolisation group than in the control group (100% vs. 60%, P = 0.03). The median changes in MELD (-1.6 vs. 2.5, P < 0.01), CTP score (-3 vs. 0, P < 0.01), and liver volume (61 mL vs. -117 mL; P = 0.046) at 1 year significantly favoured the embolisation group. Serious clinical complications after embolisation occurred only in patients who had MELD ≥15 and/or HCC at baseline, with all six dying within 1 year.

CONCLUSIONS

Embolisation of a large spontaneous portosystemic shunt may be associated with improved survival and liver function, as well as prevention of hepatic encephalopathy in cirrhotic patients with recurrent hepatic encephalopathy and modestly preserved liver function.

Band offsets in YSZ/InGaZnO4 heterostructure system

The energy discontinuity in the valence band (deltaE(v)) of Y2O3-stabilized ZrO2 (YSZ)/InGaZnO4 (IGZO) heterostructures was obtained from X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements. The YSZ exhibited a bandgap of 4.4 eV from absorption measurements. A value of deltaE(v) = 0.57 +/- 0.12 eV was obtained by using Ga 2P3/2, Zn 2p3/2 and In 3d5/2 energy levels as references. This implies a conduction band offset (deltaE(c)) of 0.63 eV in YSZ/InGaZnO4 heterostructures and a nested interface band alignment.

Planar Hall magnetoresistive aptasensor for thrombin detection

The use of aptamer-based assays is an emerging and attractive approach in disease research and clinical diagnostics. A sensitive aptamer-based sandwich-type sensor is presented to detect human thrombin using a planar Hall magnetoresistive (PHR) sensor in cooperation with superparamagnetic labels. A PHR sensor has the great advantages of a high signal-to-noise ratio, a small offset voltage and linear response in the low-field region, allowing it to act as a high-resolution biosensor. In the system presented here, the sensor has an active area of 50 µm × 50 µm with a 10-nm gold layer deposited onto the sensor surface prior to the binding of thiolated DNA primary aptamer. A polydimethylsiloxane well of 600-µm radius and 1-mm height was prepared around the sensor surface to maintain the same specific area and volume for each sensor. The sensor response was traced in real time upon the addition of streptavidin-functionalized magnetic labels on the sensor. A linear response to the thrombin concentration in the range of 86 pM-8.6 µM and a lower detection limit down to 86 pM was achieved by the proposed present method with a sample volume consumption of 2 µl. The proposed aptasensor has a strong potential for application in clinical diagnosis.

Biosorption of uranium(VI) from aqueous solution by biomass of brown algae Laminaria japonica

The uranium(VI) adsorption efficiency of non-living biomass of brown algae was evaluated in various adsorption experimental conditions. Several different sizes of biomass were prepared using pretreatment and surface-modification steps. The kinetics of uranium uptake were mainly dependent on the particle size of the prepared Laminaria japonica biosorbent. The optimal particle size, contact time, and injection amount for the stable operation of the wastewater treatment process were determined. Spectroscopic analyses showed that uranium was adsorbed in the porous inside structure of the biosorbent. The ionic diffusivity in the biomass was the dominant rate-limiting factor; therefore, the adsorption rate was significantly increased with decrease of particle size. From the results of comparative experiments using the biosorbents and other chemical adsorbents/precipitants, such as activated carbons, zeolites, and limes, it was demonstrated that the brown algae biosorbent could replace the conventional chemicals for uranium removal. As a post-treatment for the final solid waste reduction, the ignition treatment could significantly reduce the weight of waste biosorbents. In conclusion, the brown algae biosorbent is shown to be a favorable adsorbent for uranium(VI) removal from radioactive wastewater.

Impact of liver fibrosis on prognosis following liver resection for hepatitis B-associated hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

This study aims to evaluate the impact of liver fibrosis severity on prognosis following liver resection among HBV-HCC patients.

METHODS

Data were extracted from a prospective database of 189 HBV-HCC patients treated at Mount Sinai between 1995 and 2008. Fibrosis staging of each surgical resection specimen using the modified Ishak method was performed by a single liver pathologist.

RESULTS

A wide range of Ishak fibrosis stage was observed among this patient population, with 29% having established cirrhosis (Ishak stage 6). Ishak stage 6 was independently associated with poor overall and recurrence-free survival. In patients with Ishak stage 1-5, Ishak stage did not affect survival; rather, tumour size was associated with poor overall survival, and tumour size, histologic activity index and serum AFP>20 ng ml(-1) were associated with poor recurrence-free survival. In patients with Ishak stage 6, poorly differentiated histology and tumour size were associated with poor overall survival, and tumour size was associated with poor recurrence-free survival.

CONCLUSION

HBV-HCC develops with varying degrees of underlying liver fibrosis; however, progressive liver fibrosis does not affect the outcomes following resection until cirrhosis is reached. Established cirrhosis, as defined histologically by Ishak stage 6, is an independent predictor of poor overall and recurrence-free survival among these patients.

Anti-bacterial and anti-toxic immunity induced by a killed whole-cell-cholera toxin B subunit cholera vaccine is essential for protection against lethal bacterial infection in mouse pulmonary cholera model

The lack of appropriate animal model for studying protective immunity has limited vaccine development against cholera. Here, we demonstrate a pulmonary cholera model conferred by intranasal administration of mice with live Vibrio cholerae. The bacterial components, but not cholera toxin, caused lethal and acute pneumonia by inducing massive inflammation. Intranasal immunization with Dukoral, comprising killed whole bacteria and recombinant cholera toxin B subunit (rCTB), developed both mucosal and systemic antibody responses with protection against the lethal challenge. Either rCTB-free Dukoral or rCTB alone partially protected the mice against the challenge. However, reconstitution of rCTB-free Dukoral with rCTB restored full protection. Parenteral immunization with Dukoral evoked strong systemic immunity without induction of mucosal immunity or protection from the challenge. These results suggest that both anti-bacterial and anti-toxic immunity are required for protection against V. cholerae-induced pneumonia, and this animal model is useful for pre-clinical evaluation of candidate cholera vaccines.

Temperature evolution of itinerant ferromagnetism in SrRuO3 probed by optical spectroscopy

The temperature (T) dependence of the optical conductivity spectra σ(ω) of a single crystal SrRuO(3) thin film is studied over a T range from 5 to 450 K. We observed significant T dependence of the spectral weights of the charge transfer and interband d-d transitions across the ferromagnetic Curie temperature (T(c) ∼ 150 K). Such T dependence was attributed to the increase in the Ru spin moment, which is consistent with the results of density functional theory calculations. T scans of σ(Ω,T) at fixed frequencies Ω reveal a clear T(2) dependence below T(c), demonstrating that the Stoner mechanism is involved in the evolution of the electronic structure. In addition, σ(Ω,T) continues to evolve at temperatures above T(c), indicating that the local spin moment persists in the paramagnetic state. This suggests that SrRuO(3) is an intriguing oxide system with itinerant ferromagnetism.

Electric-field-induced polar order and localization of the confined electrons in LaAlO3/SrTiO3 heterostructures

With ellipsometry, x-ray diffraction, and resistance measurements we investigated the electric-field effect on the confined electrons at the LaAlO3/SrTiO3 interface. We obtained evidence that the localization of the electrons at negative gate voltage is induced, or at least enhanced, by a polar phase transition in SrTiO3 which strongly reduces the lattice polarizability and the subsequent screening. In particular, we show that the charge localization and the polar order of SrTiO3 both develop below ∼50  K and exhibit similar, unipolar hysteresis loops as a function of the gate voltage.

Enhancement patterns of hepatocellular carcinomas on multiphasicmultidetector row CT: comparison with pathological differentiation

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine the incidence of typical and atypical enhancement patterns of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) on multiphasic multidetector row CT (MDCT) and to correlate the enhancement patterns and morphological image findings of HCC with the degree of tumour differentiation.

METHODS

MDCT images of 217 patients with 243 surgically proven HCCs were evaluated through consensus reading by two radiologists. Our MDCT protocol was composed of precontrast, arterial, portal and delayed phases. The reviewers analysed the CT images for degree of attenuation; relative timing of washout; presence of dysmorphic intratumoral vessels, aneurysms and necrosis; tumour size; tumour margin; presence of pseudocapsule; intratumoral heterogeneity; and determined enhancement pattern. The imaging features were correlated with tumour differentiation using Fisher's exact test or the χ(2) test.

RESULTS

Among 243 HCCs, 137 (56.4%) showed the typical enhancement pattern of HCC, which is arterial enhancement and washout on portal or equilibrium phase images. In the arterial phase, 190 of 243 (78.2%) HCCs showed hypervascularity, with approximately three quarters of poorly differentiated (PD) (34 of 45, 75.6%) and moderately differentiated (MD) HCCs (92 of 123, 74.8%) showing washout during the portal or delayed phases, vs only 50% of well-differentiated (WD) HCCs (11 of 22; p<0.048). The presence of intratumoral vessels and aneurysms, tumour necrosis, attenuation of precontrast, the relative timing of washout, intratumoral attenuation heterogeneity, tumour margin and tumour size were correlated with the pathological differentiation of HCCs (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

A typical enhancement of HCCs on MDCT was not unusual (43.6%) and WD and PD HCCs account for most of the atypical enhancement patterns. Early washout favoured MD and PD HCCs rather than WD HCCs, whereas in our study the presence of intratumoral aneurysm was a highly specific finding for PD HCC.