Three-dimensional imaging to estimate in vivo body and carcass chemical composition of growing beef-on-dairy crossbred bulls

The dynamics of cattle body chemical composition during growth and fattening periods determine animal performance and beef carcass quality. The aim of this study was to estimate the empty body (EB) and carcass chemical composition of growing beef-on-dairy crossbred bulls (Brown Swiss breed as dam with Angus, Limousin or Simmental as sire) using three-dimensional (3D) imaging. The 3D images of the cattle's external body shape were recorded in vivo on 48 bulls along growth trajectory (75-520 kg BW and 34-306 kg hot carcass weight [HCW]; set 1) and on 70 bulls at target market slaughter weight, including 18 animals from set 1 (average 517 ± 10 kg BW and 289 ± 10 kg HCW; set 2). The linear, circumference, curve, surface and volume measurements on the 3D body shape were determined. Those predictive variables were used in partial least square regressions, together with the effect of the sire breed whenever significant (P < 0.05), with leave-one-out cross-validation to estimate water, lipid, protein, mineral and energy mass or proportions in the EB and carcass. Mass and proportions were determined directly from postmortem grinding and chemical analyses (set 1) or indirectly using the 11th rib dissection method (set 2). In set 1, bulls' BW and HCW were estimated via 3D imaging, with root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) of 12 kg and 6 kg, respectively. The EB and carcass chemical component proportions were estimated with RMSEP from 0.2% for EB minerals (observed mean 3.7 ± 0.2%) to 1.8% for EB lipid (11.6 ± 4.2%), close to the RMSEP found for the carcass. In set 2, the RMSEP for estimation via 3D imaging was 9 kg for BW and 6 kg for HCW. The EB energy and protein proportions were estimated, with RMSEP of 0.5 MJ/kg fresh matter (10.1 ± 0.8 MJ/DM) and 0.2% (18.7 ± 0.7%), respectively. Overall, the estimations of chemical component proportions from 3D imaging were slightly less precise for both sets than the mass estimations. The morphological traits from the 3D images appeared to be precise estimators of BW, HCW as well as EB and carcass chemical component masses and proportions.

Early glucose abnormalities revealed by continuous glucose monitoring associate with lung function decline in cystic fibrosis: A five-year prospective study

BACKGROUND

Cystic fibrosis related diabetes (CFRD) is commonly associated with declining lung function and nutritional status. We aimed to evaluate the pulmonary impact of early glucose abnormalities by using 2-h standard oral glucose tolerance testing (OGTT) and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in people with cystic fibrosis (PwCF).

METHODS

PwCF aged ≥10 years old without known CFRD were included in a five-year prospective multicentre study. Annual evaluation of nutritional status, lung function, OGTT and CGM was set up. Associations between annual rate changes (Δ) in lung function, ΔFEV1 (forced expiratory volume in 1 s) percentage predicted (pp) and ΔFVC (forced vital capacity) pp., and annual rate changes in OGTT or CGM variables were estimated with a mixed model with a random effect for subject.

RESULTS

From 2009 to 2016, 112 PwCF (age: 21 ± 11 years, BMI (body mass index) z-score: -0.55 ± 1.09, FEV1pp: 77 ± 24 %, 2-h OGTT glucose: 122 ± 44 mg/dL, AUC (area under curve) >140 mg/dL: 1 mg/dL/day (0.2, 3.0) were included. A total of 428 OGTTs and 480 CGMs were collected. The participants presented annual decline of FVCpp and FEV1pp at -1.0 % per year (-1.6, -0.4), p < 0.001 and - 1.9 % per year (-2.5, -1.3), p < 0.001 respectively without change in BMI z-score during the study. Variation of two-hour OGTT glucose was not associated with declining lung function, as measured by ΔFEV1pp (p = 0.94) and ΔFVCpp (p = 0.90). Among CGM variables, only increase in AUC >140 mg/dL between two annual visits was associated with a decrease in ΔFVCpp (p < 0.05) and ΔFEV1pp (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This prospective study supports the fact that early glucose abnormalities revealed by CGM predict pulmonary function decline in PwCF, while 2-h standard OGTT glucose is not associated with pulmonary impairment.

Should people with type 2 diabetes treated by multiple daily insulin injections with home health care support be switched to hybrid closed-loop? The CLOSE AP+ randomized controlled trial

AIM

The study aim was to evaluate the feasibility, safety and efficacy of automated insulin delivery (AID) assisted by home health care (HHC) services in people with type 2 diabetes unable to manage multiple daily insulin injections (MDI) at home on their own.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was an open label, multicentre, randomized, parallel group trial. In total, 30 adults with type 2 diabetes using MDI and requiring nursing support were randomly allocated to AID or kept their usual therapy over a 12-week period. Both treatments were managed with the support of HHC services. The primary outcome was the percentage time in the target glucose range of 70-180 mg/dl (TIR). Secondary outcomes included other continuous glucose monitoring metrics, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, daily insulin doses, body weight, and of quality of life scores, fear of hypoglycaemia and satisfaction questionnaires.

RESULTS

Age (69.7 vs. 69.3 years) and HbA1c (9.25 vs. 9.0) did not differ in MDI and AID at baseline. Compared with MDI, AID resulted in a significant increase in TIR by 27.4% [95% CI (15.0-39.8); p < .001], a decrease in time above range by 27.7% and an unchanged time below range of <1%. A between-group difference in HbA1c was 1.3% favouring AID. Neither severe hypoglycaemia nor ketoacidosis occurred in either group. Patient and caregiver satisfaction with AID was high.

CONCLUSIONS

AID combined with tailored HHC services significantly improved glycaemic control with no safety issues in people with type 2 diabetes previously under an MDI regimen with HHC. AID should be considered a safe option in these people when lacking acceptable glucose control.

Extracellular vesicles are carriers of adiponectin with insulin-sensitizing and anti-inflammatory properties

Recent evidence supporting that adipose tissue (AT)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) carry an important part of the AT secretome led us to characterize the EV-adipokine profile. In addition to evidencing a high AT-derived EV secretion ability that is further increased by obesity, we identify enrichment of oligomeric forms of adiponectin in small EVs (sEVs). This adipokine is mainly distributed at the EV external surface as a result of nonspecific adsorption of soluble adiponectin. EVs also constitute stable conveyors of adiponectin in the blood circulation. Adiponectin-enriched sEVs display in vitro insulin-sensitizing effects by binding to regular adiponectin receptors. Adoptive transfer of adiponectin-enriched sEVs in high-fat-diet-fed mice prevents animals from gaining weight and ameliorated insulin resistance and tissue inflammation, with major effects observed in the AT and liver. Our results therefore provide information regarding adiponectin-related metabolic responses by highlighting EVs as delivery platforms of metabolically active forms of adiponectin molecules.

Prevalence of sleep apnoea in patients with type 1 diabetes and its association with comorbidities and diabetic complications: A French nationwide prospective study

AIM

To investigate sleep apnoea prevalence, factors influencing severity, and associations between sleep apnoea severity and micro-/macrovascular complications in a large population of patients with type 1 diabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This French multicentre prospective cohort study was conducted between July 2016 and June 2020. Adults with type 1 diabetes using an insulin pump were eligible. Home care provider nurses collected demographic and clinical data and set up oximetry to determine the oxygen desaturation index (ODI). No, mild-moderate and severe sleep apnoea were defined as ODI <15 events/h, 15 to <30 events/h and ≥30 events/h, respectively. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify factors associated with sleep apnoea, and associations between sleep apnoea severity and micro-/macrovascular complications were determined using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Of 769 participants, 12.4% and 3.4% had mild-to-moderate or severe sleep apnoea, respectively. Factors significantly associated with sleep apnoea on multivariate analysis were age, sex, body mass index (BMI) and hypertension. After adjustment for age, sex and BMI, presence of severe sleep apnoea was significantly associated with macrovascular complications (odds ratio vs. no sleep apnoea: 3.96 [95% confidence interval 1.43-11.11]; P < 0.01), while mild-to-moderate sleep apnoea was significantly associated with presence of diabetic retinopathy (odds ratio 2.09 [95% confidence interval 1.10-3.74]; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Sleep apnoea is a significant comorbidity in patients with type 1 diabetes, especially with respect to diabetic complications. This highlights the need for sleep apnoea screening and management in these individuals.

Comparison of Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Cystic Fibrosis Patients With or Without Pancreatic Exocrine Insufficiency

This study aimed to compare continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in cystic fibrosis (CF) according to pancreatic exocrine status.CGM and oral glucose tolerance testing (OGTT) were realized annually over five years in people with CF (pwCF) aged≥10 years without cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD). CGM parameters in patients with normal glucose tolerance (NGT), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and newly diagnosed CFRD were compared according to presence of pancreatic sufficiency (PS) or insufficiency (PI).Overall, 547 OGTTs and 501 CGMs were performed in 147 CF patients, comprising 122 PI and 25 PS. In PS patients, 84% displayed NGT, 12% IGT, and 4% CFRD vs. 58%, 32%, and 10% (p=0.05) in PI. Among participants displaying normal OGTT, time in glucose range (70-140 mg/dl) was significantly increased, 97% (93, 99) vs. 92% (85, 96), p<0.001, and time above glucose range > 140 mg/dl significantly decreased, 1% (0, 2) % vs. 6% (2, 13), in patients with PS compared to those with PI. No significant differences were highlighted in patients with IGT.CGM revealed significant different glucose tolerance abnormalities in PI versus PS, which were undetected by standard 2-hour OGTT glucose.

A213 ERCP-RELATED ADVERSE EVENTS IN PRIMARY SCLEROSING CHOLANGITIS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW & META-ANALYSIS

Background

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a valuable diagnostic and therapeutic tool in primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Although the complications of ERCP are well known in the general population, there is conflicting data regarding complications in patients with PSC. Factors that predict ERCP-related adverse events in PSC are also unclear.

Aims

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analyses to 1. compare ERCP-related adverse events in patients with and without PSC and 2. determine risk factors associated with ERCP-related adverse events in PSC.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in Embase, PubMed and CENTRAL for studies published from January 1, 2000 to May 12, 2021. Eligible studies included adults with PSC undergoing ERCP and reported at least one ERCP-related adverse event (bleeding, perforation, pancreatitis, cholangitis) or risk factor associated with complications. Raw event rates for adverse events and risk factors were used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) which were then pooled using random-effects models.

Results

Four studies contributed to the first meta-analysis. There was a significant three-fold increase in the 30-day odds of cholangitis in PSC compared to those without PSC (4.3% vs. 2.0%; OR 3.26, 95% CI 1.08–9.90; p=0.037; I2=73.0%) (Figure 1). However, there were no significant differences in 30-day pancreatitis (4.2% vs. 3.4%; OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.26–3.07; p=0.851; I2=87.9%), bleeding (0.3% vs. 1.1%; OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.06–2.21; p=0.272; I2=50.3%), or perforation (0.7% vs. 0.5%; OR 1.19, 95% CI 0.40–3.51; p=0.752; I2=28.5%).

In a second meta-analysis, risk factors contributing to post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) in PSC were pooled from five studies. While female sex was not associated with PEP, accidental passage of wire into the pancreatic duct (OR 7.44, 95% CI 3.33–16.65; p&lt;0.001; I2=65.0%) and biliary sphincterotomy (OR 4.80, 95% CI 1.92–12.03; p=0.001; I2=73.1%) were associated with higher PEP odds.

Conclusions

In the context of limited comparative data and study heterogeneity, PSC patients have higher odds of post-ERCP cholangitis despite the majority receiving antibiotics. Odds of bleeding, pancreatitis, and perforation were similar between groups. Accidental wire passage and biliary sphincterotomy increased odds of PEP, which helps identify higher-risk groups. Future studies should elucidate ERCP-related risks in PSC and guide preventive strategies.

Funding Agencies

None

An Unsafe/Safe Typology in People with Type 2 Diabetes: Bridging Patients' Expectations, Personality Traits, Medication Adherence, and Clinical Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Support programs are provided to people with diabetes to help them manage their disease. However, adherence to and persistence in support programs are often low, making it difficult to demonstrate their effectiveness.

AIM

To identify the determinants of patients' perceived interest in diabetes support programs because it may be a powerful determinant of effective participation in such programs.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

An online study conducted in April 2021 in metropolitan France on 600 people with diabetes recruited from a consumer panel. A 64-item psychosocial questionnaire including a question asking to evaluate the helpfulness of a support program was used. Univariate, multivariate, and multiple correspondence analyses were performed.

RESULTS

The existence of a typology, known as Unsafe/Safe, was discovered, in which patients with type 2 diabetes respond in two distinct ways. Type U (unsafe) patients, who believe that a support program would be helpful, are more likely to be nonadherent to their treatment, have high hemoglobin A1c levels, have at least one diabetic complication, lack information regarding their disease and treatment, rate the burden of their disease and impairment of their quality of life as high, worry about their future, and are pessimistic. Type S (safe) patients have the opposite characteristics. Type U patients can be dichotomized into two broad classes: one in which they lack information regarding disease and treatment and the other in which alterations in the quality of life and burden of the disease predominate. Insulin-treated patients give more importance to the lack of information, whereas noninsulin-treated patients complain primarily about the burden of the disease and impairment of quality of life.

CONCLUSION

This study describes this new U/S typology, proposes a simple method based on a nine-item questionnaire to identify type U patients by calculating a Program Helpfulness Score described herein, and clarifies the nature of the intervention to be provided to them. This novel approach could be applied to other chronic diseases.

LPS-enriched small extracellular vesicles from metabolic syndrome patients trigger endothelial dysfunction by activation of TLR4

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is characterized by a cluster of interconnected risk factors -hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, hypertension and obesity- leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) can be considered as new biomarkers of different pathologies, and they are involved in intercellular communication. Here, we hypothesize that sEVs are implicated in MetS-associated endothelial dysfunction.

METHODS

Circulating sEVs of non-MetS (nMetS) subjects and MetS patients were isolated from plasma and characterized. Thereafter, sEV effects on endothelial function were analyzed by measuring nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and mitochondrial dynamic proteins on human endothelial aortic cells (HAoECs).

RESULTS

Circulating levels of sEVs positively correlated with anthropometric and biochemical parameters including visceral obesity, glycaemia, insulinemia, and dyslipidemia. Treatment of HAoECs with sEVs from MetS patients decreased NO production through the inhibition of the endothelial NO-synthase activity. Injection of MetS-sEVs into mice impaired endothelium-dependent relaxation induced by acetylcholine. Furthermore, MetS-sEVs increased DHE and MitoSox-associated fluorescence in HAoECs, reflecting enhanced cytosolic and mitochondrial ROS production which was not associated with mitochondrial biogenesis or dynamic changes. MetS patients displayed elevated circulating levels of LPS in plasma, and, at least in part, it was associated to circulating sEVs. Pharmacological inhibition and down-regulation of TLR4, as well as sEV-carried LPS neutralization, results in a substantial decrease of ROS production induced by MetS-sEVs.

CONCLUSION

These results evidence sEVs from MetS patients as potential new biomarkers for this syndrome, and TLR4 pathway activation by sEVs provides a link between the endothelial dysfunction and metabolic disturbances described in MetS.

Ustekinumab in bio-naïve and bio-failure Crohn's disease patients: Results from a « real-life » monocentric cohort

BACKGROUND

The pivotal clinical trials have largely demonstrated the efficacy and safety of ustekinumab in Crohn's disease. Real-life cohorts published so far only include very few bio-naïve patients. This study assesses effectiveness and safety of ustekinumab in bio-naïve and bio-failure patients treated with ustekinumab in routine practice and look for predictors of response.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective monocentric study. Initial response was assessed by maintenance therapy beyond week 16. Sustained response was assessed by the continuation or cessation of therapy over time for another reason than stopping in sustained remission. Treatment persistence was assessed by Kaplan Meier curves and predictors of treatment persistence were studied by univariate and multivariate Cox model.

RESULTS

Out of 156 recorded patients, three patients were still in their induction phase at time of analysis and 5 patients were lost to follow-up, leaving 148 patients for clinical effectiveness analyses, including 35 bio-naïve when starting ustekinumab. A maintenance therapy was initiated in 79.7%. At one year, the probability to be still treated with ustekinumab was 73.8%. Treatment cessation increased with smoking in multivariate analysis. Previous biologic failure (as a whole), CRP and fecal calprotectin baseline levels did not influence initial response and treatment persistence.

CONCLUSION

A large proportion of CD patients initially respond to ustekinumab and continue this treatment beyond one year. Treatment persistence is as high in bio-failure as in bio-naïve patients.

Large Extracellular Vesicle-Associated Rap1 Accumulates in Atherosclerotic Plaques, Correlates With Vascular Risks and Is Involved in Atherosclerosis

RATIONALE

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of interrelated risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerosis. Circulating levels of large extracellular vesicles (lEVs), submicrometer-sized vesicles released from plasma membrane, from MetS patients were shown to induce endothelial dysfunction, but their role in early stage of atherosclerosis and on vascular smooth muscle cells (SMC) remain to be fully elucidated.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the mechanisms by which lEVs lead to the progression of atherosclerosis in the setting of MetS.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Proteomic analysis revealed that the small GTPase, Rap1 was overexpressed in lEVs from MetS patients compared with those from non-MetS subjects. Rap1 was in GTP-associated active state in both types of lEVs, and Rap1-lEVs levels correlated with increased cardiovascular risks, including stenosis. MetS-lEVs, but not non-MetS-lEVs, increased Rap1-dependent endothelial cell permeability. MetS-lEVs significantly promoted migration and proliferation of human aortic SMC and increased expression of proinflammatory molecules and activation of ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) 5/p38 pathways. Neutralization of Rap1 by specific antibody or pharmacological inhibition of Rap1 completely prevented the effects of lEVs from MetS patients. High-fat diet-fed ApoE^-/- mice displayed an increased expression of Rap1 both in aortas and circulating lEVs. lEVs accumulated in plaque atherosclerotic lesions depending on the progression of atherosclerosis. lEVs from high-fat diet-fed ApoE^-/- mice, but not those from mice fed with a standard diet, enhanced SMC proliferation. Human atherosclerotic lesions were enriched in lEVs expressing Rap1.

CONCLUSIONS

These data demonstrate that Rap1 carried by MetS-lEVs participates in the enhanced SMC proliferation, migration, proinflammatory profile, and activation of ERK5/p38 pathways leading to vascular inflammation and remodeling, and atherosclerosis. These results highlight that Rap1 carried by MetS-lEVs may be a novel determinant of diagnostic value for cardiometabolic risk factors and suggest Rap1 as a promising therapeutic target against the development of atherosclerosis. Graphical Abstract: A graphical abstract is available for this article.

Glycosuria amount in response to hyperglycaemia and risk for diabetic kidney disease and related events in Type 1 diabetic patients

BACKGROUND

Hyperglycaemia impairs tubulo-glomerular feedback. We tested whether variable tubulo-glomerular feedback during hyperglycaemia contributes to renal risk heterogeneity seen in Type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

During the period 1990-92, we studied the tubulo-glomerular feedback in Type 1 diabetic patients at high or low renal risk [21 of 54 with glomerular hyperfiltration and/or microalbuminuria against 11 of 55 with normal glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and urinary albumin despite uncontrolled diabetes]. The GFR, effective renal plasma flow, mean arterial pressure and fractional reabsorptions of glucose, osmols, sodium and lithium were measured sequentially during normo- and hyperglycaemia. All patients were followed up until 2016 for incident proteinuria, estimated GFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2, doubling of serum creatinine, end-stage renal disease or all-cause death.

RESULTS

Glycaemia increased from 6.1 ± 1.3 to 15.1 ± 1.9 mmol/L in both high-risk and low-risk patients. Glycosuria was lower in the high- versus low-risk patients: 0.34 ± 0.25 versus 0.64 ± 0.44 mmol/min (P = 0.03). Both groups displayed similar kidney function during normoglycaemia. Hyperglycaemia increased more importantly GFR and fractional reabsorptions, and pre-glomerular vasodilatation in the high- than in the low-risk patients (all P < 0.05). Over 21 years, 31.5% high- versus 12.7% low-risk patients developed endpoints (adjusted P = 0.006). In a multi-adjusted survival analysis of patients having undergone renal tests, each 0.10 mmol/min glycosuria during hyperglycaemia reduced the outcome risk by 0.72 (95% confidence interval 0.49-0.97, P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Reduced tubulo-glomerular feedback and glycosuria during hyperglycaemia indicate high renal risk for Type 1 diabetic patients. Inter-individual variability in tubulo-glomerular feedback activity determines renal risk in Type 1 diabetes.

Association between sleep disturbances, fear of hypoglycemia and psychological well-being in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus, data from cross-sectional VARDIA study

AIM

To assess the relationship between sleep quality, fear of hypoglycemia, glycemic variability and psychological well-being in type 1 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

Our data were provided by the VARDIA Study, a multicentric cross-sectional study conducted between June and December 2015. Sleep characteristics were assessed by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Fear of hypoglycemia and psychological well-being were measured with the Hypoglycemia Fear Survey version II (HFS-II) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), respectively. Glycemic variability (GV) was determined using the CV of three 7-point self-monitoring blood glucose profiles and the mean amplitude of glycemic excursion (MAGE).

RESULTS

315 patients were eligible for PSQI questionnaire analysis: 54% women, mean age 47 ± 15, mean diabetes duration of 24 ± 13 years, HbA1c of 7.6 ± 0.9% (60 ± 7,5mmol/mol). Average PSQI score was 6.0 ± 3.3 and 59.8% of the patients had a PSQI score > 5. HFS-II score and HADS were significantly higher among "poor" sleepers (p < 0.0001) and PSQI score was positively associated with HADS (β = 0.22; 95% CI = 0.08;0.35). GV evaluated by CV or MAGE did not differ between "poor" and "good" sleepers (p = 0.28 and 0.54, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Adult patients with type 1 diabetes have sleep disturbances which correlate with psychological well-being. This study suggests that psychological management can be a target to improve sleep quality in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

[Pharmaceutical analysis of medication orders in health care facilities: A France-Quebec comparison]

OBJECTIVES

The pharmaceutical analysis of drug prescriptions is one of the key steps in the drug circuit. This mandatory regulatory practice in France and Quebec is based on national standards. The main objective of this work was to compare the practical methods of pharmaceutical analysis performed in French and Quebec university hospitals.

METHODS

This is a prospective comparative survey conducted in 2 French and Quebec university hospital centres among pharmacists and pharmacy residents.

RESULTS

The response rate to the survey was 60% (45/75). Between 16 and 22 elements were deemed necessary to structure the centralized, decentralized or mixed pharmaceutical analysis. The chronological ranking of these elements was comparable between the French and Quebec participants. All participants were in favour of the development of initial and continuing training in pharmaceutical analysis. Finally, the majority of participants were against using individual pharmaceutical analysis performance indicators to optimize the process (82%; 37/45).

CONCLUSIONS

The French-Quebec practice of prescription analysis by a ward-pharmacist complies with national standards. The main differences in the practice of pharmaceutical analysis are related to the types of organization, the tools available and the length of time pharmacists have been deployed in care units in France and Quebec.

Phenotyping of circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs) in obesity identifies large EVs as functional conveyors of Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor

Objective

Obesity-associated metabolic dysfunctions are linked to dysregulated production of adipokines. Accumulating evidence suggests a role for fat-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) in obesity-metabolic disturbances. Since EVs convey numerous proteins we aimed to evaluate their contribution in adipokine secretion.

Methods

Plasma collected from metabolic syndrome patients were used to isolate EV subtypes, namely microvesicles (MVs) and exosomes (EXOs). Numerous soluble factor concentrations were measured successively on total, MV- and EXO-depleted plasma by multiplexed immunoassays.

Results

Circulating MVs and EXOs were significantly increased with BMI, supporting a role of EVs as metabolic relays in obesity. Obesity was associated with dysregulated soluble factor production. Sequential depletion of plasma MVs and EXOs did not modify plasma levels of these molecules, with the exception of Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF). Half of plasma MIF circulated within MVs, and this MV secretory pathway was conserved over different MIF-producing cells. Although MV-associated MIF triggered rapid ERK1/2 activation in macrophages, these functional MV-MIF effects specifically relied on MIF tautomerase activity.

Conclusion

Our results emphasize the importance of reconsidering MIF-metabolic actions with regard to its MV-associated form and opening new EV-based strategies for therapeutic MIF approaches.

•

Plasma EV subtypes are significantly increased with obesity.

•

Plasma EV subtypes carry adipokines.

•

MV (large EV subtype) constitute a major secretory pathway for MIF.

•

MV-associated MIF transduces metabolic responses through its tautomerase activity.

Increased liver stiffness in patients with severe sleep apnoea and metabolic comorbidities

The goal of this study was to assess the relationship between the severity of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and liver stiffness measurement (LSM), one of the most accurate noninvasive screening tools for liver fibrosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.The study included 147 patients with at least one criterion for the metabolic syndrome, assessed by polysomnography for suspected OSA. LSM was performed using transient elastography (FibroScan). Significant liver disease and advanced liver fibrosis were defined as LSM ≥7.3 and ≥9.6 kPa, respectively.23 patients were excluded because of unreliable LSM. Among 124 patients, 34 (27.4%) had mild OSA, 38 (30.6%) had moderate OSA and 52 (42.0%) had severe OSA. LSM values were 7.3- <9.6 kPa in 18 (14.5%) patients and ≥9.6 kPa in 15 (12.1%) patients. A dose-response relationship was observed between OSA severity and LSM values (p=0.004). After adjustment for age, sex, metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance, severe OSA was associated with an increased risk of LSM ≥7.3 kPa (OR 7.17, 95% CI 2.51-20.50) and LSM ≥9.6 kPa (OR 4.73, 95% CI 1.25-17.88).In patients with metabolic comorbidities, severe OSA is independently associated with increased liver stiffness, which may predispose to a higher risk of significant liver disease and poorer prognosis.

Transition from pediatric to adult care in adolescents with hereditary metabolic diseases: Specific guidelines from the French network for rare inherited metabolic diseases (G2M)

Inherited metabolic diseases (IMD) form a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders that surface primarily during childhood and result in significant morbidity and mortality. A prevalence of 1 in 2500-5000 live births is often reported. The transfer of adolescents from pediatric care to adult health facilities is often difficult for patients and their families and can lead to a breakdown in medical follow-up and therefore serious complications. Existing recommendations for the successful transition of patients with chronic disorders do not specifically address patients with IMDs associated with dietary treatment. Here, the French network for rare inherited metabolic diseases (G2M) presents its reflections and recommendations for a successful transition. Preparations for the transfer must be made well in advance. The transfer must aim for adolescents gaining autonomy by making them responsible and providing them with the knowledge that will enable them to manage their care themselves, know how to react appropriately if there is any change in their condition, and move comfortably within the adult healthcare system. This requires the active participation of the patient, his or her family, and pediatric and adult care teams. It involves multidisciplinary management plus the production and maintenance of an educational therapy program. Finally, the identification of physicians and dietitians trained in IMDs, relevant subspecialists, and even expert patients could improve the continuum of complete and appropriate care for these patients within adult medicine.

Dietary practices in propionic acidemia: A European survey

Background

The definitive dietary management of propionic acidaemia (PA) is unknown although natural protein restriction with adequate energy provision is of key importance.

Aim

To describe European dietary practices in the management of patients with PA prior to the publication of the European PA guidelines.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional survey consisting of 27 questions about the dietary practices in PA patients circulated to European IMD dietitians and health professionals in 2014.

Results

Information on protein restricted diets of 186 PA patients from 47 centres, representing 14 European countries was collected. Total protein intake [PA precursor-free L-amino acid supplements (PFAA) and natural protein] met WHO/FAO/UNU (2007) safe protein requirements for age in 36 centres (77%). PFAA were used to supplement natural protein intake in 81% (n = 38) of centres, providing a median of 44% (14–83%) of total protein requirement. Seventy-four per cent of patients were prescribed natural protein intakes below WHO/FAO/UNU (2007) safe levels in one or more of the following age groups: 0–6 m, 7–12 m, 1–10 y, 11–16 y and > 16 y. Sixty-three per cent (n = 117) of patients were tube fed (74% gastrostomy), but only 22% received nocturnal feeds.

Conclusions

There was high use of PFAA with intakes of natural protein commonly below WHO/FAO/UNU (2007) safe levels. Optimal dietary management can only be determined by longitudinal, multi-centre, prospective case controlled studies. The metabolic instability of PA and small patient cohorts in each centre ensure that this is a challenging undertaking.

Association between obstructive sleep apnea severity and endothelial dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes

Background

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are associated with endothelial dysfunction a main predictor of late cardiovascular (CV) events. Despite the high prevalence of OSA in patients with T2D, the impact of OSA severity on endothelial function has not been clearly elucidated. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine whether increasing OSA severity is associated with poorer endothelial function in patients with T2D.

Methods

140 patients with T2D and no overt CV disease underwent polysomnography, peripheral arterial tonometry, clinic blood pressure (BP) measurement, biological assessment for CV risk factors, daytime sleepiness and health related quality of life (HRQL) questionnaires. The following commonly used cut-offs for apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) were used to define 3 categories of disease severity: AHI < 15 (no OSA or mild OSA), 15 ≤ AHI < 30 (moderate OSA), and AHI ≥ 30 (severe OSA). The primary outcome was the reactive hyperemia index (RHI), a validated assessment of endothelial function.

Results

21.4% of patients had moderate OSA and 47.6% had severe OSA. Increasing OSA severity and nocturnal hypoxemia were not associated with a significant decrease in RHI. Endothelial dysfunction (RHI < 1.67) was found in 47.1, 44.4 and 39.2% of patients with no OSA or mild OSA, moderate OSA and severe OSA, respectively (p = 0.76). After adjustment for confounders including body mass index, increasing OSA severity was associated with higher systolic BP (p = 0.03), lower circulating levels of adiponectin (p = 0.0009), higher levels of sP-selectin (p = 0.03), lower scores in 3 domains of HRQL including energy/vitality (p = 0.02), role functioning (p = 0.01), and social functioning (p = 0.04).

Conclusions

Moderate to severe OSA is very common but has no impact on digital micro-vascular endothelial function in patients with T2D.

Neurovascular microcirculatory vasodilation mediated by C-fibers and Transient receptor potential vanilloid-type-1 channels (TRPV 1) is impaired in type 1 diabetes

Microvascular dysfunction may have an early onset in type 1 diabetes (T1D) and can precede major complications. Our objectives were to assess the endothelial-dependent (acetylcholine, ACh; and post-occlusive hyperemia, PORH), non-endothelial-dependent (sodium nitroprusside, SNP) and neurovascular-dependent (local heating, LH and current induced vasodilation, CIV) microcirculatory vasodilation in T1D patients compared with matched control subjects using a laser speckle contrast imager. Seventeen T1D patients - matched with 17 subjects according to age, gender, Body-Mass-Index, and smoking status - underwent macro- and microvascular investigations. The LH early peak assessed the transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 channels (TRPV1) mediated vasodilation, whereas the plateau assessed the Nitirc-Oxyde (NO) and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) pathways. PORH explored sensory nerves and (EDHF), while CIV assessed sensory nerves (C-fibers) and prostaglandin-mediated vasodilation. Using neurological investigations, we observed that C-fiber and A-delta fiber functions in T1D patients were similar to control subjects. PORH, CIV, LH peak and plateau vasodilations were significantly decreased in T1D patients compared to controls, whereas there was no difference between the two groups for ACh and SNP vasodilations. Neurovascular microcirculatory vasodilations (C-fibers and TRPV 1-mediated vasodilations) are impaired in TD1 patients whereas no abnormalities were found using clinical neurological investigations. Clinicaltrials: No. NCT02538120.

Dietary practices in isovaleric acidemia: A European survey

Background

In Europe, dietary management of isovaleric acidemia (IVA) may vary widely. There is limited collective information about dietetic management.

Aim

To describe European practice regarding the dietary management of IVA, prior to the availability of the E-IMD IVA guidelines (E-IMD 2014).

Methods

A cross-sectional questionnaire was sent to all European dietitians who were either members of the Society for the Study of Inborn Errors of Metabolism Dietitians Group (SSIEM-DG) or whom had responded to previous questionnaires on dietetic practice (n = 53). The questionnaire comprised 27 questions about the dietary management of IVA.

Results

Information on 140 patients with IVA from 39 centres was reported. 133 patients (38 centres) were given a protein restricted diet. Leucine-free amino acid supplements (LFAA) were routinely used to supplement protein intake in 58% of centres. The median total protein intake prescribed achieved the WHO/FAO/UNU [2007] safe levels of protein intake in all age groups. Centres that prescribed LFAA had lower natural protein intakes in most age groups except 1 to 10 y. In contrast, when centres were not using LFAA, the median natural protein intake met WHO/FAO/UNU [2007] safe levels of protein intake in all age groups. Enteral tube feeding was rarely prescribed.

Conclusions

This survey demonstrates wide differences in dietary practice in the management of IVA across European centres. It provides unique dietary data collectively representing European practices in IVA which can be used as a foundation to compare dietary management changes as a consequence of the first E-IMD IVA guidelines availability.

Temporal Cross Talk Between Endoplasmic Reticulum and Mitochondria Regulates Oxidative Stress and Mediates Microparticle-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction

AIMS

Circulating microparticles (MPs) from metabolic syndrome patients and those generated from apoptotic T cells induce endothelial dysfunction; however, the molecular and cellular mechanism(s) underlying in the effects of MPs remain to be elucidated.

RESULTS

Here, we show that both types of MPs increased expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress markers, X-box binding protein 1, p-eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 α, and CHOP, and nuclear translocation of activating transcription factor 6 on human aortic endothelial cells (HAoECs). MPs decreased in vitro nitric oxide release by HAoECs, whereas in vivo MP injection into mice impaired the endothelium-dependent relaxation induced by acetylcholine. These effects were prevented when ER stress was inhibited, suggesting that ER stress is implicated in the endothelial effects induced by MPs. MPs affected mitochondrial function and evoked sequential increase of cytosolic and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS). Pharmacological inhibition of ER stress and silencing of neutral sphingomyelinase (SMase) with siRNA abrogated all MP-mediated effects. Neutralization of Fas ligand carried by MPs abolished effects induced by both MP types, whereas neutralization of low-density lipoprotein receptor on endothelial cells prevented T-lymphocyte MP-mediated effects. Innovation and Conclusion: Collectively, endothelial dysfunction triggered by MPs involves temporal cross talk between ER and mitochondria with respect to spatial regulation of ROS via the neutral SMase and interaction of MPs with Fas and/or low-density lipoprotein receptor. These results provide a novel molecular insight into the manner MPs mediate vascular dysfunction and allow identification of potential therapeutic targets to treat vascular complications associated with metabolic syndrome. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 26, 15-27.

[Selection and optimal sequence of critical elements for medication review: A simulation with hospital pharmacy residents]

OBJECTIVES

The main objective of this study was to compare the responses of pharmacy residents regarding critical steps for medication order review, in the presence or absence of clinical pharmacists on patient care units, to describe the sequence of these steps and to compare them to an optimal sequence. The secondary objectives were to test this sequence in a simulation and to assess the residents' level of agreement on medication order review.

METHODS

Twenty-two validation steps were selected from guidelines. A simulation on order review was organized in three steps: selecting elements judged to be necessary or not for the order review critical path, then organizing this sequence in chronological order, implementation of this critical path on two simulated practical cases, resident perceptions about order review in their training.

RESULTS

Forty-one residents participated in the activity. Responses were heterogeneous regarding the elements' sequence and the time required for the review of a simulated case (3-13minutes). A majority of residents considered that their training was insufficient (29/41), that pharmacists validated differently (27/41), and that it was impossible to review the 22 proposed items for each prescription (30/41).

CONCLUSIONS

This article highlights heterogeneous medication order review practices among pharmacy residents, due to a lack of training in their curriculum according to them. It is essential to acquire medication order review standard both locally and nationally.

Osteoprotegerin levels are associated with liver fat and liver markers in dysmetabolic adults

AIM

This study aimed to determine the association between visceral adipose tissue (VAT), liver fat (LF) content, and other markers of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) in dysmetabolic adults.

METHODS

Subjects from the NUMEVOX cohort were included if they fulfilled at least one MetS criterion. They then underwent a thorough metabolic and cardiovascular evaluation, including arterial stiffness, atherosclerotic plaques, homoeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) indices and OPG. VAT and LF content were measured by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Ultrasound examination of arteries and arterial stiffness were recorded, and age- and gender-adjusted paired correlations calculated.

RESULTS

Body mass index, waist circumference and MRI-derived VAT correlated with OPG, whereas abdominal subcutaneous fat did not. OPG levels were strongly correlated with LF content (r=0.25, P=0.003), liver markers such as alanine aminotransferase (r=0.39, P<0.001) and HOMA-IR index (r=0.39, P<0.0001). Plasma OPG also correlated with arterial stiffness and the number of atherosclerotic sites.

CONCLUSION

Plasma OPG levels are positively associated with both liver markers and increased LF content, but not with subcutaneous fat in dysmetabolic men. These findings suggest that elevated OPG levels may play a role in the link between fatty liver disease and enhanced cardiovascular risk.

2 × 2 Tables: a note on Campbell's recommendation

For 2 × 2 tables, Egon Pearson's N - 1 chi-squared statistic is theoretically more sound than Karl Pearson's chi-squared statistic, and provides more accurate p values. Moreover, Egon Pearson's N - 1 chi-squared statistic is equal to the Mantel-Haenszel chi-squared statistic for a single 2 × 2 table, and as such, is often available in statistical software packages like SPSS, SAS, Stata, or R, which facilitates compliance with Ian Campbell's recommendations.

Practices in prescribing protein substitutes for PKU in Europe: No uniformity of approach

BACKGROUND

There appears little consensus concerning protein requirements in phenylketonuria (PKU).

METHODS

A questionnaire completed by 63 European and Turkish IMD centres from 18 countries collected data on prescribed total protein intake (natural/intact protein and phenylalanine-free protein substitute [PS]) by age, administration frequency and method, monitoring, and type of protein substitute. Data were analysed by European region using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

The amount of total protein (from PS and natural/intact protein) varied according to the European region. Higher median amounts of total protein were prescribed in infants and children in Northern Europe (n=24 centres) (infants <1 year, >2-3g/kg/day; 1-3 years of age, >2-3 g/kg/day; 4-10 years of age, >1.5-2.5 g/kg/day) and Southern Europe (n=10 centres) (infants <1 year, 2.5 g/kg/day, 1-3 years of age, 2 g/kg/day; 4-10 years of age, 1.5-2 g/kg/day), than by Eastern Europe (n=4 centres) (infants <1 year, 2.5 g/kg/day, 1-3 years of age, >2-2.5 g/kg/day; 4-10 years of age, >1.5-2 g/kg/day) and with Western Europe (n=25 centres) giving the least (infants <1 year, >2-2.5 g/kg/day, 1-3 years of age, 1.5-2 g/kg/day; 4-10 years of age, 1-1.5 g/kg/day). Total protein prescription was similar in patients aged >10 years (1-1.5 g/kg/day) and maternal patients (1-1.5 g/kg/day).

CONCLUSIONS

The amounts of total protein prescribed varied between European countries and appeared to be influenced by geographical region. In PKU, all gave higher than the recommended 2007 WHO/FAO/UNU safe levels of protein intake for the general population.

Infection control in households of drug-resistant tuberculosis patients co-infected with HIV in Mumbai, India

BACKGROUND

Mumbai has a population of 21 million, and an increasingly recognised epidemic of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB).

OBJECTIVE

To describe TB infection control (IC) measures implemented in households of DR-TB patients co-infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) under a Médecins Sans Frontières programme.

METHODS

IC assessments were carried out in patient households between May 2012 and March 2013. A simplified, standardised assessment tool was utilised to assess the risk of TB transmission and guide interventions. Administrative, environmental and personal protective measures were tailored to patient needs.

RESULTS

IC assessments were carried out in 29 houses. Measures included health education, segregating sleeping areas of patients, improving natural ventilation by opening windows, removing curtains and obstacles to air flow, installing fans and air extractors and providing surgical masks to patients for limited periods. Environmental interventions were carried out in 22 houses.

CONCLUSIONS

TB IC could be a beneficial component of a comprehensive TB and HIV care programme in households and communities. Although particularly challenging in slum settings, IC measures that are feasible, affordable and acceptable can be implemented in such settings using simplified and standardised tools. Appropriate IC interventions at household level may prevent new cases of DR-TB, especially in households of patients with a lower chance of cure.

The influences of psychotic symptoms on the activities of daily living of individuals with Alzheimer disease: a longitudinal analysis

OBJECTIVES

Psychotic symptoms associated with Alzheimer Disease (AD) contribute to excess functional dependence. Longitudinal studies have generally examined the association between rates of functional decline and the occurrence of psychotic symptoms from either a single evaluation or from multiple evaluations rather than through changes in frequency and severity of symptoms. Although the presence or absence of psychotic symptoms at initial or follow-up examinations may be associated with changes in functional status, the nature of the relationship between changes in these domains cannot be inferred. We examine the association between changes in the frequency of psychotic symptoms and changes in dependence in activities of daily living (ADL) over a period ranging from 1 to 74 months (median = 17.7).

METHOD

Data from a cohort of 234 individuals referred to a memory clinic were analyzed using multilevel linear regression. Information on ADL, behavioral and psychological symptoms, depression, and cognition was collected.

RESULTS

An increase in the frequency of psychotic symptoms had a unique influence on the deterioration of basic ADL, after controlling for demographic variables, changes in cognition, depression, and other behavioral and psychological symptoms (B = -.017, p = .003). However, changes in psychotic symptoms did not significantly contribute to declines in the ability to perform instrumental ADL (B = -.008, p = .439).

CONCLUSION

Changes in psychotic symptoms may influence basic but not instrumental ADL over time. These findings may have ramifications for studies and treatment plans for individuals with AD who demonstrate psychotic symptoms.

Dietary management of urea cycle disorders: European practice

BACKGROUND

There is no published data comparing dietary management of urea cycle disorders (UCD) in different countries.

METHODS

Cross-sectional data from 41 European Inherited Metabolic Disorder (IMD) centres (17 UK, 6 France, 5 Germany, 4 Belgium, 4 Portugal, 2 Netherlands, 1 Denmark, 1 Italy, 1 Sweden) was collected by questionnaire describing management of patients with UCD on prescribed protein restricted diets.

RESULTS

Data for 464 patients: N-acetylglutamate synthase (NAGS) deficiency, n=10; carbamoyl phosphate synthetase (CPS1) deficiency, n=29; ornithine transcarbamoylase (OTC) deficiency, n=214; citrullinaemia, n=108; argininosuccinic aciduria (ASA), n=80; arginase deficiency, n=23 was reported. The majority of patients (70%; n=327) were aged 0-16y and 30% (n=137) >16y. Prescribed median protein intake/kg body weight decreased with age with little variation between disorders. The UK tended to give more total protein than other European countries particularly in infancy. Supplements of essential amino acids (EAA) were prescribed for 38% [n=174] of the patients overall, but were given more commonly in arginase deficiency (74%), CPS (48%) and citrullinaemia (46%). Patients in Germany (64%), Portugal (67%) and Sweden (100%) were the most frequent users of EAA. Only 18% [n=84] of patients were prescribed tube feeds, most commonly for CPS (41%); and 21% [n=97] were prescribed oral energy supplements.

CONCLUSIONS

Dietary treatment for UCD varies significantly between different conditions, and between and within European IMD centres. Further studies examining the outcome of treatment compared with the type of dietary therapy and nutritional support received are required.

Treatment of acute decompensation of maple syrup urine disease in adult patients with a new parenteral amino-acid mixture

BACKGROUND

Acute decompensation of maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) is usually treated by enteral feeding with an amino-acid mixture without leucine (Leu), valine or isoleucine. However, its administration is ineffective in cases of gastric intolerance and some adult patients refuse enteral feeding via a nasogastric tube. We developed a new parenteral amino-acid mixture for patients with MSUD.

METHODS

Seventeen decompensation episodes in four adult patients with MSUD treated with a parenteral amino-acid mixture (group P) were compared to 18 previous episodes in the same patients treated by enteral feeding (group E).

RESULTS

The mean Leu concentration at presentation was similar in the groups P and E (1196.9 μmol/L and 1212.2 μmol/L, respectively). The mean decrease in the Leu concentration during the first 3 days of hospitalisation was significantly higher in group P than group E (p = 0.0026); there were no side effects. The mean duration of hospitalisation was similar (4 vs. 4.5 days, p = NS). No patient in group P deteriorated whereas one patient in group E required dialysis.

CONCLUSION

This new parenteral amino-acid mixture is safe and allows efficient Leu concentration decrease during acute MSUD decompensation episodes in adults. Its use avoids the need for nasogastric tube insertion.

Role of sex steroids, intrahepatic fat and liver enzymes in the association between SHBG and metabolic features

BACKGROUND

SHBG and liver enzymes levels are both associated with the risk of type 2 diabetes. However, the relationship between SHBG with liver enzymes and intrahepatic fat content remain poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether SHBG is correlated with glucose and lipids levels and whether this association depends on fatty liver content, liver enzymes or sex hormone concentrations.

DESIGN AND PATIENTS

We studied 233 dysmetabolic men with measures of plasma SHBG, total testosterone, 17β-oestradiol, glucose, adiponectin, liver enzymes and hepatokines. Intrahepatic liver fat and visceral fat contents were measured by magnetic resonance imaging in 108 of these individuals.

RESULTS

After adjustment for age, SHBG concentration was inversely correlated with fasting glucose (βstandardized  = -0·21, P = 0·0007), HbA1c (βstandardized  = -0·27, P < 0·0001), triglycerides (βstandardized  = -0·19, P = 0·003) and positively correlated with HDL-Cholesterol (βstandardized  = 0·14, P = 0·03). These correlations persisted after adjustment for either total testosterone or 17β-oestradiol levels. SHBG was not related to either fetuin A or FGF 21 concentrations. The inverse association of SHBG with HbA1c and glycaemia was not altered after adjusting for liver markers but was no longer significant after adjustment for hepatic fat content.

CONCLUSION

The significant association between SHBG and fasting glycaemia, HbA1c and lipid levels in dysmetabolic men was not related to either sex hormones or markers of liver function, but was dependent on intrahepatic fat. This suggests that intrahepatic fat, but not alterations in liver function markers, may be involved in the association between SHBG and glucose and lipid metabolism.

Losartan, an angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker, protects human islets from glucotoxicity through the phospholipase C pathway

As shown in a large clinical prospective trial, inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) can delay the onset of type 2 diabetes in high-risk individuals. We evaluated the beneficial effects of RAS inhibition on β-cell function under glucotoxic conditions. Human islets from 13 donors were cultured in 5.5 mM (controls) or 16.7 mM glucose [high glucose (HG)] for 4 d with or without losartan (5 μM), a selective AT1R blocker, and/or U73122 (2 μM), a selective PLC inhibitor, during the last 2 d. HG induced RAS activation with overexpression of AT1R (P<0.05) and angiotensinogen (P<0.001) mRNAs. HG increased endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress markers (P<0.001) such as GRP78, sXBP1, and ATF4 mRNAs and Grp78 protein levels (P<0.01). HG also decreased reticular calcium concentration (P<0.0001) and modified protein expressions of ER calcium pumps with reduction of SERCA2b (P<0.01) and increase of IP3R2 (P<0.05). Losartan prevented these deleterious effects and was associated with improved insulin secretion despite HG exposure. AT1R activation triggers the PLC-IP3-calcium pathway. Losartan prevented the increase of PLC β1 and γ1 protein levels induced by HG (P<0.05). U73122 reproduced all the protective effects of losartan. AT1R blockade protects human islets from the deleterious effects of glucose through inhibition of the PLC-IP3-calcium pathway.

The costimulatory molecule CD70 is regulated by distinct molecular mechanisms and is associated with overall survival in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

In diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (DLBCL), a recurrent deletion of the 19p13 region has recently been described. CD70 and TNFSF9 genes are suspected tumor suppressor genes, but previous studies suggest an oncogenic role for CD70. Therefore, we studied the consequences of variation in CD70 copy number and epigenetic modifications on CD70 expression. Copy-number variation was investigated in 144 de novo DLBCL tissues by comparative genomic hybridization array and quantitative multiplex PCR. Gene expression was assessed by quantitative RT-PCR, and CD70 promoter methylation was determined by pyrosequencing. The 19p13.3.2 region was deleted in 21 (14.6%) cases, which allowed the minimal commonly deleted region of 57 Kb that exclusively includes the CD70 gene to be defined. Homozygous deletions were observed in four (2.7%) cases, and acquired single-nucleotide variations of CD70 were detected in nine (6.3%) cases. CD70 was highly expressed in both germinal centre B-cell-like (GCB) and activated B-cell-like (ABC) DLBCL compared to normal tissue, with distinct molecular mechanisms of mRNA expression regulation. A gene dosage effect was observed in the GCB subtype, whereas promoter methylation was the predominant mechanism of down regulation in the ABC subtype. However, high CD70 expression levels correlated to shorter overall survival in both the GCB (P = 0.0021) and the ABC (P =0.0158) subtypes. In conclusion, CD70 is targeted by recurrent deletions, somatic mutations and promoter hypermethylation, but its high level of expression is related to an unfavorable outcome, indicating that this molecule may constitute a potential therapeutic target in selected DLBCL.