Skeletal Muscle Electrical Stimulation Prevents Progression of Disuse Muscle Atrophy via Forkhead Box O Dynamics Mediated by Phosphorylated Protein Kinase B and Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor gamma Coactivator-1alpha

Although electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) of skeletal muscle effectively prevents muscle atrophy, its effect on the breakdown of muscle component proteins is unknown. In this study, we investigated the biological mechanisms by which EMS-induced muscle contraction inhibits disuse muscle atrophy progression. Experimental animals were divided into a control group and three experimental groups: immobilized (Im; immobilization treatment), low-frequency (LF; immobilization treatment and low-frequency muscle contraction exercise), and high-frequency (HF; immobilization treatment and high-frequency muscle contraction exercise). Following the experimental period, bilateral soleus muscles were collected and analyzed. Atrogin-1 and Muscle RING finger 1 (MuRF-1) mRNA expression levels were significantly higher for the experimental groups than for the control group but were significantly lower for the HF group than for the Im group. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1alpha (PGC-1alpha) mRNA and protein expression levels in the HF group were significantly higher than those in the Im group, with no significant differences compared to the Con group. Both the Forkhead box O (FoxO)/phosphorylated FoxO and protein kinase B (AKT)/phosphorylated AKT ratios were significantly lower for the Im group than for the control group and significantly higher for the HF group than for the Im group. These results, the suppression of atrogin-1 and MuRF-1 expression for the HF group may be due to decreased nuclear expression of FoxO by AKT phosphorylation and suppression of FoxO transcriptional activity by PGC-1alpha. Furthermore, the number of muscle contractions might be important for effective EMS.

Development of a novel animal model of rotator cuff tear arthropathy replicating clinical features of progressive osteoarthritis with subchondral bone collapse

OBJECTIVE

To establish an animal model of modified cuff tear arthropathy (mCTA) in order to better replicate the pathophysiology associated with rotator cuff tear-induced humeral head collapse.

DESIGN

mCTA was induced by transection of the rotator cuff, the long head of the biceps brachii (LHB), and superior half of the joint capsule in the right shoulder of 12-week-old rats; the left shoulder underwent sham surgery. The severity of CTA was quantitated using the Murine Shoulder Arthritis Score (MSAS). The trabecular bone of the humeral head and metaphysis was analyzed using bone histomorphometry. The expression of proinflammatory cytokines and catabolic enzymes was evaluated immunohistochemically.

RESULTS

In the mCTA model, the MSAS increased starting from 2 weeks after induction, and there was notable subchondral bone collapse with fibrous cells at 4 weeks. The mCTA cartilage exhibited positive staining for TNF-α, IL-1β/6, MMP-3/13, and ADAMTS5. The trabecular bone volume was reduced not only in the subchondral bone but also in the metaphysis of the humeri, and bone resorption was enhanced in these areas. In the collapsed subchondral bone, both bone formation and resorption were increased. The fibrous cells showed expression of TNF-α, IL-6, and MMP-13, along with specific markers of mesenchymal stem cells. Furthermore, the fibrous cells showed osteoblastic characteristics (RUNX2-positive) and expressed RANKL.

CONCLUSIONS

The LHB and the capsuloligamentous complex are critical stabilizers of the glenohumeral joint, serving to prevent the advancement of CTA following massive rotator cuff tears. Fibrous cells appear to play a role in the humeral head bone resorption.

CD204⁺ tumor-associated macrophages are associated with clinical outcome in canine pulmonary adenocarcinoma and transitional cell carcinoma

Tumor-associated macrophages are abundant infiltrating cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Macrophages can be classified into several types of subsets based on their immune responses. Among those subsets, M2 macrophages contribute to anti-inflammatory responses and create an immunosuppressive environment that promotes tumor cell proliferation. In a previous study, human cancer patients with high M2 macrophages showed a worse prognosis for many types of tumors. However, studies examining the relationship between M2 macrophages and clinical outcomes in canine tumors are limited. In the previous human and canine studies, CD204 has been used as the marker for detecting M2 macrophages. Then we evaluated CD204+ and total macrophages infiltration and its association with clinical outcomes in canine solid tumors. In this study, we examined dogs with oral malignant melanoma (OMM), pulmonary adenocarcinoma (PA), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). Compared to healthy tissues, CD204+ and total macrophages were increased in OMM, PA, and TCC, but not in HCC. High CD204+ macrophage levels were significantly associated with lung metastasis in TCC (P = 0.030). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that high CD204+ macrophage levels were associated with shorter overall survival (OS) in canine patients with PA (P = 0.012) and TCC (P = 0.0053). These results suggest that CD204+ macrophages contribute to tumor progression and could be a prognostic factor in dogs with PA and TCC.

Relationships between feeding behaviors and emotions: an electroencephalogram (EEG) frequency analysis study

Feeding behaviors may be easily affected by emotions, both being based on brain activity; however, the relationships between them have not been explicitly defined. In this study, we investigated how emotional environments modulate subjective feelings, brain activity, and feeding behaviors. Electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings were obtained from healthy participants in conditions of virtual comfortable space (CS) and uncomfortable space (UCS) while eating chocolate, and the times required for eating it were measured. We found that the more participants tended to feel comfortable under the CS, the more it took time to eat in the UCS. However, the EEG emergence patterns in the two virtual spaces varied across the individuals. Upon focusing on the theta and low-beta bands, the strength of the mental condition and eating times were found to be guided by these frequency bands. The results determined that the theta and low-beta bands are likely important and relevant waves for feeding behaviors under emotional circumstances, following alterations in mental conditions.

Playing a musical instrument and the risk of dementia among older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies

Background

Engaging in leisure activities was suggested to protect older adults from dementia. However, the association between playing a musical instrument and the risk of dementia is not well-established. This study aimed to investigate this association in older adults using a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies.

Methods

Pooled hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of having dementia for older adults playing a musical instrument were calculated using the random-effects model. We performed the I² statistic to detect heterogeneity across studies and the test for funnel plot asymmetry to assess publication bias. The risk of bias assessment was conducted using the modified Newcastle–Ottawa Scale.

Results

A total of three prospective cohort studies were found eligible: two from the U.S. and one from Japan. Playing a musical instrument, in the meta-analysis, was significantly associated with a decreased risk of dementia (HR = 0.64; 95% CI: 0.41, 0.98) among older adults. No signs of significant heterogeneity across studies (I² = 23.3% and p-heterogeneity = 0.27) or publication bias (z= -1.3 and p-publication bias = 0.18) were identified.

Conclusion

Playing a musical instrument was associated with a decreased risk of dementia among older adults. Older adults should be encouraged to engage in leisure activities, especially playing musical instruments.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12883-022-02902-z.

AB0971 Relationship between walking speed and lower limb skeletal muscle mass in patients with knee joint disorders

Background

Knee joint disorder is one of the factors causing frailty in the elderly, which is associated with a decrease in walking speed.

Objectives

We measured the walking speed of patients scheduled to undergo primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and examined factors correlated with walking speed.

Methods

The patients with knee disorders scheduled to undergo knee arthroplasty at our hospital between July 2020 and May 2021 were included. They were assessed for basic attributes, clinical assessment including Kness Society Score (KSS), degree of pain on walking by visual analogue scale (VAS), range of motion (ROM), and also leg skeletal muscle mass index (SMI; whole-body mode DXA), quadriceps strength by dynamometer with written consent (UMIN ID: 000040940). And Japanese Cardiovascular Health Study criteria for frailty, and sarcopenia by Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 criteria were evaluated.

Results

Demographic data of 83 patients (65 women, mean age 74.9 years) included in this study was shown in Table 1. The distribution in frailty is 36.2% and that in sarcopenia is 7.3%. Most of the patients with frailty with knee disorder did not suffer from sarcopenia. A multivariate analysis was conducted with walking speed as the objective variable and the dependent variables as age, gender, pain VAS on walking, KSS, leg SMI, quadriceps strength, and ROM. The results showed that age and ROM in flexion were significantly and independently associated with walking speed (P=0.01, 0.03). Gender, pain VAS on walking, KSS, leg SMI, quadriceps strength, and ROM in extension were not significantly associated with walking speed (P=0.92, 0.11, 0.11, 0.52, 0.85, 0.52).

Conclusion

Among the patients with knee disorders immediately before arthroplasty, frailty was not caused by sarcopenia. Age was found to be the most correlated factor with walking speed, and walking speed became slower with age. In addition, poor flexion angle was also the factor for delayed walking speed, but it did not correlate with lower limb skeletal muscle mass or quadriceps strength. In this study pain on walking was not significant factor for walking speed, because it was observed in most of all cases.

FactorGroup　disease (n)osteoarthritis78 (94%)　rheumatoid arthritis5 (6.0%)body mass index (kg/m2)　25.54 (4.11)pain VAS on walking　37.08 (26.35)total Knee Society Score　77.66 (27.85)range of motion (degree)flexion119.46 (12.88)　extension-9.58 (6.59)quadriceps power (N)　122.00 [53.00, 350.00]waling speed (m/sec)　0.95 (0.33)grip power (kg)　20.24 (6.97)skeletal muscle mass index (kg/m2)appendicular6.50 [4.92, 9.85]　lower limb5.06 [3.76, 7.56]Frailty (n)none10 (12.5%)Pre-frail41 (51.2%)　frail29 (36.2%)Sarcopenia (n)none76 (92.7%)sarcopenia4 (4.9%)　severe sarcopenia2 (2.4%)

mean (standard deviation)

; median [min max]

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

Tea crude extracts effectively inactivate severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2

It is well known that black and green tea extracts, particularly polyphenols, have antimicrobial activity against various pathogenic microbes including viruses. However, there is limited data on the antiviral activity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), which emerged rapidly in China in late 2019 and which has been responsible for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic globally. In this study, 20 compounds and three extracts were obtained from black and green tea and found that three tea extracts showed significant antiviral activity against SARS‐CoV‐2, whereby the viral titre decreased about 5 logs TCID₅₀ per ml by 1·375 mg ml⁻¹ black tea extract and two‐fold diluted tea bag infusion obtained from black tea when incubated at 25°C for 10 s. However, when concentrations of black and green tea extracts were equally adjusted to 344 µg ml⁻¹, green tea extracts showed more antiviral activity against SARS‐CoV‐2. This simple and highly respected beverage may be a cheap and widely acceptable means to reduce SARS‐CoV‐2 viral burden in the mouth and upper gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts in developed as well as developing countries.

In vitro evidence of propagation of superoxide dismutase-1 protein aggregation in canine degenerative myelopathy

Canine degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disorder that has been linked to mutations in the superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) gene. The accumulation of misfolded protein aggregates in spinal neurons and astrocytes is implicated as an important pathological process in DM; however, the mechanism of protein aggregate formation is largely unknown. In human neurodegenerative diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), cell-to-cell propagation of disease-relevant proteins has been demonstrated. Therefore, in this study, propagation of aggregation-forming property of mutant SOD1 protein in DM in vitro was investigated. This study demonstrated that aggregates composed of canine wild type SOD1 protein were increased by co-transfection with canine mutant SOD1 (E40K SOD1), indicating intracellular propagation of SOD1 aggregates. Further, aggregated recombinant SOD1 proteins were released from the cells, taken up by other cells, and induced further aggregate formation of normally folded SOD1 proteins. These results suggest intercellular propagation of SOD1 aggregates. The hypothesis of cell-to-cell propagation of SOD1 aggregates proposed in this study may underly the progressive nature of DM pathology.

Utility of novel Omnipolar activation mapping for the detection of ventricular premature contraction origin

Background

Bipolar electrograms are significantly influenced by direction of the propagating wavefront in relation to the recording bipole. Omnipolar voltage mapping may be superior to standard bipolar mapping since it obtains maximum voltage of all possible bipolar electrode orientations without the need for catheter rotation. Therefore, omnipolar maps can provide voltage maps with larger voltages as well as better defined boundaries.

Purpose

Whether omnipolar activation maps also describe better activation maps versus traditional bipolar maps during ventricular premature contraction (VPC) catheter ablation is unclear.

Methods

A high-density mapping catheter was advanced to the ventricular outflow tract and a high-resolution activation map was created. Each electrode along and across the splines of the catheter are 4mm apart. Bipoles were calculated along (MAP 2), across (MAP 3) and bidirectional (MAP 4) the splines while omnipoles (MAP 1) were derived from a right triangle clique. Within a square area, four omnipolar and two bipolar values along, across and bidirectional values were defined.

Results

Though the earliest activation site was vague by along and across maps (arrow), white color became evident by bidirectional map, and the VPC origin became distinct with omnipolar mapping. RF lesions were given via an open-irrigated ablation catheter targeting a lesion size index 5.0. The VPC was eliminated by radiofrequency ablation.

Conclusion

Omnipolar activation mapping may be more accurate than traditional bipolar mapping during ventricular premature contraction (VPC) catheter ablation.

Figure 1

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Time course of improvement in novel nitric oxide-regulated hormones in response to exercise training in middle-aged and older adults

Introduction

Cardiovascular disease risk augments with advance of age. The mechanism of the increased cardiovascular disease risk by aging is related to attenuation of arterial function via endothelium-derived relaxing factor, such as nitric oxide (NO). Recently, apelin and adropin have identified as NO-upregulated hormones, whereas augmented secretion of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) have identified as NO-downregulated hormones. However, the effects of exercise training-induced changes in NO-regulated hormones on the reduction of arterial stiffness via NO productions remain unclear.

Purpose

This study aimed to determine the time-dependent changes in NO-regulated hormones related to exercise-training effects of arterial stiffness via NO productions in healthy middle-aged and older adults.

Methods

Thirty-two Japanese healthy middle-aged and older subjects (67±1 years) were randomly divided into two groups: exercise intervention and sedentary controls. Subjects in the training group completed 8-week of aerobic exercise training (60–70% peak oxygen uptake [VO2peak] for 45 min, 3 days/week). We evaluated plasma nitrite/nitrate (NOx), apelin, and ADMA levels, serum apelin level and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) as an index of arterial stiffness, measured every 2 weeks for 8-week in the training group.

Results

cfPWV was gradually declined from baseline to 8-week and significantly decreased from baseline at weeks 6 (P<0.05) and 8 (P<0.01). Plasma NOx level was gradually elevated during exercise intervention and significantly increased from baseline at weeks 6 (P<0.05) and 8 (P<0.01). Interestingly, plasma apelin and serum adropin levels were gradually elevated during exercise intervention and significantly increased from baseline at weeks 4, 6 and 8 (each P<0.01). Additionally, plasma ADMA level was significantly decreased at 8-week intervention (P<0.01). Furthermore, the exercise training-induced increase in plasma NOx level was significantly correlated with the changes in circulating apelin (r=0.505, P<0.05), adropin (r=0.662, P<0.01), or ADMA (r=−0.483, P<0.05) levels before and after the 8-week. The exercise training-induced increase in plasma NOx level was significantly correlated with training-induced changes in circulating apelin (r=0.483, P<0.05) or adropin (r=0.556, P<0.05) before and after the 6-week.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the NO-upregulated hormones (apelin and adropin) were increased at the early stage of exercise training intervention and NO-downregulated hormone (ADMA) was decreased at the late stage of exercise training intervention, and these changes in NO-regulated hormones may be contributed to the reduction of arterial stiffness in the middle-aged and older adults.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): This work was supported by a Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan.

62 Time course of improvement in secretory unbalance of asymmetric dimethylarginine and nitric oxide productions in response to exercise training in middle-aged and older adults

Funding Acknowledgements

Supported by Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research (#17H02182, #16K13059, M. Iemitsu; #18J01024, S. Fujie)

Introduction

Aging is well known to elevate risks of cardiovascular diseases. As a mechanism of these increased risks with aging, a reduction of nitric oxide (NO) production via augmented secretion of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), an endogenous inhibitor of NO synthesis is related. Habitual aerobic exercise has shown to improve secretory unbalance of endothelium-derived regulating factors with aging, such as increase in NO and decrease in ADMA, resulting in the reduction of arterial stiffness. However, the time course of improvement in secretory unbalance of NO and ADMA productions in response to exercise training in middle-aged and older adults remains unclear.

Purpose

This study aimed to determine the time course of changes in plasma nitrite/nitrate (NOx) and ADMA levels related to exercise-training effects of arterial stiffness in healthy middle-aged and older adults.

Methods

Thirty-two Japanese healthy middle-aged and older subjects (67 ± 1 years) were randomly divided into two groups: exercise intervention and sedentary controls. Subjects in the training group completed 8-week of aerobic exercise training (60-70% peak oxygen uptake [VO2peak] for 45 min, 3 days/week). We evaluated plasma NOx and ADMA concentrations and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) as an index of arterial stiffness, measured every 2 weeks for 8-week in the training group.

Results

cfPWV was gradually declined from baseline to 8-week and significantly decreased from baseline at weeks 6 (P < 0.05) and 8 (P < 0.01). Plasma NOx level was gradually elevated during exercise intervention and significantly increased from baseline at weeks 6 (P < 0.05) and 8 (P < 0.01). Interestingly, plasma ADMA level was significantly decreased at 8-week intervention (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the exercise training-induced reduction in plasma ADMA level was negatively correlated with the change in plasma NOx level before and after the 8-week (r = -0.483, P < 0.05). The exercise training-induced change in plasma ADMA concentration was positively correlated with training-induced change in cfPWV before and after the 8-week (r = 0.633, P < 0.01). Additionally, there was a negative correlation between the changes in plasma NOx level and cfPWV before and after the 8-week (r = -0.642, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

These results suggest that habitual aerobic exercise can normalize the secretory unbalance of NO and ADMA productions in 6 to 8 weeks, and these balance normalizations may be contributed to the reduction of arterial stiffness in the middle-aged and older adults.

Evaluation of the Assurance GDS® for Salmonella Method in Foods and Environmental Surfaces: Multilaboratory Collaborative Study

A multilaboratory collaborative study was conducted to compare the detection of Salmonella by the Assurance GDS® for Salmonella method and the Reference culture methods. Six foods, representing a variety of low microbial and high microbial load foods were analyzed. Seventeen laboratories in the United States and Canada participated in this study. No statistical differences (P < 0.05) were observed between the Assurance GDS for Salmonella and the Reference culture methods for any inoculation level of any food type or naturally contaminated food, except for pasta, for which the Assurance GDS method had a higher number of confirmed test portions for Salmonella compared to the Reference method.

Determination of Walnut Protein in Processed Foods by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay: Interlaboratory Study

Because food allergens from tree nuts, including walnuts, are a frequent cause of adverse food reactions for allergic patients, the labeling of foods containing ingredients derived from tree nuts is required in numerous countries. According to Japanese regulations, the labeling of food products containing walnuts is recommended. To ensure proper labeling, a novel sandwich ELISA kit for the determination of walnut protein in processed foods (Walnut Protein [2S-Albumin] Kit; Morinaga Institute of Biological Science, Inc.; walnut kit) has been developed. We prepared seven types of incurred samples (model processed foods: biscuits, bread, sponge cake, orange juice, jelly, chicken meatballs, and rice gruel) containing 10 g walnut soluble protein/g of food for use in interlaboratory evaluations of the walnut kit. The walnut kit displayed sufficient reproducibility relative standard deviations (interlaboratory precision: 5.89.9 RSDR) and a high level of recovery (81119) for all the incurred samples. All the repeatability relative standard deviation (RSDr) values for the incurred samples that were examined were less than 6.0. The results of this interlaboratory evaluation suggested that the walnut kit could be used as a precise and reliable tool for determination of walnut protein in processed foods.

Enhancement of electroencephalogram activity in the theta-band range during unmatched olfactory-taste stimulation

The aim of this study was to investigate how odor stimulation affects taste perception. Electroencephalogram (EEG) signals were measured from the frontal region of the head in normal, healthy subjects, and frequency analyses were performed. Each odor stimulation was delivered while the subject was tasting chocolate, using chocolate paste as the odorant for 'matched odor stimulation,' and garlic paste for 'unmatched odor stimulation.' Differences in EEG signals appeared between the matched and unmatched arms of the study. Comparison of the frequencies of EEGs captured under the condition of unmatched odor stimulation with those captured under the condition of matched odor stimulation showed that the occupancy rate of the theta-frequency band under the condition of unmatched odor stimulation was higher than that under the condition of matched odor stimulation. Interestingly, a negative correlation existed between the occupancy rate of the theta-frequency band and the subjective feeling of chocolate sweetness. The present findings suggest that when humans receive odors that do not match with the foods being consumed, subjective feelings are disturbed and theta-band brain activity is increased while the unmatched information is cross-checked.

Hyperglycaemia augments lipopolysaccharide-induced reduction in rat and human macrophage phagocytosis via the endoplasmic stress-C/EBP homologous protein pathway

BACKGROUND

Macrophage phagocytosis constitutes an essential part of the host defence against microbes and the resolution of inflammation. Hyperglycaemia during sepsis is reported to reduce macrophage function, and thus, potentiate inflammatory deterioration. We investigated whether high-glucose concentrations augment lipopolysaccharide-induced reduction in macrophage phagocytosis via the endoplasmic stress-C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) pathway using animal and laboratory investigations.

METHODS

Peritoneal macrophages of artificially ventilated male Wistar rats, divided into four groups based on target blood glucose concentrations achieved by glucose administration with or without lipopolysaccharide, were obtained after 24 h. Human macrophages were also cultured in normal or high glucose with or without lipopolysaccharide exposure for 72 h. Changes in the phagocytic activity, intranuclear CHOP expression, and intracellular Akt phosphorylation status of macrophages were evaluated. These changes were also evaluated in human macrophages after genetic knock-down of CHOP by specific siRNA transfection or resolvin D2 treatment.

RESULTS

Lipopolysaccharide impaired phagocytosis, increased intranuclear expression of CHOP, and inhibited Akt phosphorylation in both rat peritoneal and human macrophages. Hyperglycaemic glucose concentrations augmented these changes. Genetic knock-down of CHOP restored phagocytic ability and Akt phosphorylation in human macrophages. Furthermore, resolvin D2 co-incubation restored the inhibited phagocytosis and Akt phosphorylation along with the inhibition of intranuclear CHOP expression in human macrophages.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings imply that controlling endoplasmic reticulum stress might provide new strategies for restoring reduced macrophage phagocytosis in sepsis-induced hyperglycaemia.

Expression of apoptosis inhibitor of macrophages in tissue macrophages, leukocytes and vascular endothelial cells of dogs

Apoptosis inhibitor of macrophages (AIM) is a protein which plays important roles in controlling the immune response and inflammation in human and mice. In dogs, AIM is reported to be expressed in cancerated macrophages and regulate the survival of these tumor cells. In this study, to elucidate the physiological expression pattern of AIM in dogs, systemic expression and distribution of AIM of dogs were investigated. Mature healthy Beagles were used. Various tissues, peripheral blood cells, and bone marrow cells of normal dogs were collected for in situ hybridization, real-time RT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry. AIM mRNA and protein were expressed in tissue macrophages of the spleen, liver, lungs, and lymph nodes, but not in the microglia of the cerebrum. Proximal tubules in the kidney also expressed AIM protein. Monocytes and B lymphocytes in circulating blood and a part of microvasculature endothelial cells showed AIM expression at both the mRNA and protein levels. In the bone marrow, early-stage monocyte progenitor-like cells expressed AIM mRNA and protein. These results clarified that AIM is expressed in more cell types than previously reported in human and mice. These data spread the possibility of AIM physiological functions and implies the relationship of AIM to the maturation of macrophage-strain cells in dogs and other species.

133 Test of minimum-intervention protocols for optimizing in vitro embryo production in bison

The study was done to determine whether minimal handling protocols for ovarian synchronization and ovarian superstimulation may be used to increase in vitro embryo production in bison. Ultrasound-guided cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) collection was done in a group of bison (n=23; random start) during the anovulatory season to synchronize new follicular wave emergence. The COC were classified morphologically (compact-good and -regular, expanded, denuded, degenerate) but not processed further. At the time of COC collection (Day 0), bison were assigned randomly to 3 groups and given 5mL of saline IM (non-superstimulated controls; n=11), 10 Armour units of pFSH (Antrin R10, Kyoritsu Seiyaku Corp., Tokyo, Japan) in 5mL of saline IM once per day from Day 0 to 2 (regular FSH; n=5), or 30 armour units of a sustained-release form of pFSH (Antrin R10Al, Kyoritsu Seiyaku Corp.) in 5mL of saline SC on Day 0 (long-acting FSH; n=7). On Day 4, a second COC collection was performed. Only compact COC were processed. The COC were matured in vitro for 25 to 28h at 38.8°C, fertilized (2×106 sperm mL−1) and co-incubated at 38.8°C in 5% CO2 for 18h. Presumptive zygotes were denuded and cultured at 38.8°C in 5% O2, 5% CO2 and 90% N2. Nominal data were compared by t-test and analysis of variance. Binomial data were compared among groups by chi-squared. There was no difference between the first (random) COC collection (n=23) and second collection (n=11 non-superstimulated controls) in the total number of follicles detected, but the distribution among size categories (3-4, 4-8, and >8mm) differed, i.e. fewer in the 3 to 4mm category at the time of the second COC collection (12.2±1.0v. 8.1±1.4; P<0.05). In the nonstimulated control group, there were no differences between the first and second COC collections in the number of follicles aspirated (12.7±1.0v. 10.4±1.5), number of COC collected (7.7±0.9v. 5.3±1.3), or in the categorical distribution of COC. At the second COC collection, the number of follicles in the >8mm category was greater in the regular FSH group than in the control or long-acting FSH groups (2.8±0.5v. 1.1±0.3, and 1.9±0.4, respectively; P<0.05), but no differences were detected in the number of follicles aspirated, COC collected, or in the categorical distribution of COC. The cleavage rate (of total oocytes submitted to in vitro maturation), recorded 2 days after IVF, was higher in the control group than in either the regular FSH or long-acting FSH groups [25/35 (71.4%), 7/28 (25.0%), 8/35 (22.8%); P<0.0001]. The freezable embryo production rate, recorded 7 days after IVF, was greater in the control group than in the regular FSH or long-acting FSH groups [19/35 (54.3%), 5/28 (17.9%), 5/35 (14.3%); P<0.01]. In conclusion, minimal-handling interventions used in the present study to increase embryo production in bison were not effective, likely as a result of the timing, frequency, and duration of superstimulation. A random start resulted in greater COC collection than collection 4 days after ovarian synchronization, and embryo production rates were greater in non-superstimulated bison. This work was supported by Parks Canada and Saskatchewan ADF. Antrin products donated by Kyoritsu Seiyaku Corp., Japan.

Effects of resistance training on arterial compliance and plasma endothelin-1 levels in healthy men

Arterial compliance (AC) is an index of the elasticity of large arteries. Endothelial dysfunction has been reported to result in reduced arterial compliance, which represents increased arterial stiffness. A reduction in AC is elicited by high-intensity resistance training, however the mechanisms are obscure. Because a single bout of resistance exercise causes a transient increase in circulating plasma endothelin-1 in humans, some vasoconstrictors may play a role in the mechanisms. The present study aimed to investigate whether resistance training-induced decrease in AC is associated with changes in circulating vasoconstrictors levels in young men. Young sedentary men were assigned to control (n=5) or training (n=9) groups. The training group performed four-week high-intensity resistance training (weight training exercise; three sessions/week). We measured AC and plasma levels of endothelin-1, angiotensin II, and norepinephrine before and after intervention. Resistance training significantly decreased AC, whereas the changes in plasma levels of neither endothelin-1, nor angiotensin II, nor norepinephrine were significantly different between the control and the training groups. Moreover, we found no significant correlations between changes in circulating plasma levels (endothelin-1, angiotensin II, and norepinephrine) and in the AC. Despite of no alteration of the resting circulating plasma levels (endothelin-1, etc.), we cannot exclude a possibility that the tissue/local concentrations of vasoconstrictors (endothelin-1, etc.) around the vessels might be increased and also involved in a reduction of AC in the training group. Taken together, the present results suggest that circulating vasoconstrictors (endothelin-1, etc.) in plasma are not involved in a reduction in AC by the resistance training.

Intellectual disability is a risk factor for delayed emergence from total intravenous anaesthesia

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have suggested that ID influences the depth of general anaesthesia (GA) and delays emergence from GA. In this retrospective cohort study, we investigated whether ID affects the time taken to emerge from GA.

METHODS

We selected dental patients who underwent GA at the Department of Dental Anaesthesiology, Okayama University Hospital, using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, before dividing the selected participants into ID and non-ID (control) groups. Relevant data were collected from electronic anaesthesia records. Emergence time, the time from the discontinuation of propofol and remifentanil to tracheal extubation, was recorded for each patient. We compared the data of the ID group and control group. The association between ID and the emergence time was tested for statistical significance. Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to control for confounders.

RESULTS

A total of 97 cases (control = 50, ID = 47) were included in the study. The emergence time was significantly longer in the ID group (ID group: 15.8 ± 6.6 min, control group: 10.8 ± 3.6 min). The ID group included more men and lower propofol and remifentanil infusion rates. The treatment time was longer, and the mean bispectral index was lower in the ID group. Sevoflurane inhalation was used only for anaesthesia induction in the ID group. In the multivariate linear regression analysis, ID was found to be significantly associated with a longer emergence time.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that ID is associated with a longer emergence time from GA.

Decalcification of a Heavily Calcified Common Femoral Artery and its Bifurcation with a Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator

Introduction

Surgical endarterectomy is the preferred method for treating occlusive disease of the common femoral artery (CFA). However, endarterectomy is not always straightforward in cases with heavily calcified plaque. To overcome this limitation, a new method for decalcification, which utilizes a Cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator (CUSA) has been developed.

Report

The method involves full exposure of the calcified lesion. Following an arteriotomy, protruding calcification is removed using the CUSA, taking care to avoid vessel perforation. Preservation of the medial calcified layer can be accomplished by the accurate control provided by the device, which enables smooth termination in the distal area of the normal wall and does not require a tacking suture. A total of 12 patients underwent decalcification of 13 common femoral artery (CFA) lesions using CUSA with vein patch angioplasty. Concomitant profundaplasty was performed in five cases. The only intra-operative complication was perforation of the arterial wall in one patient, while another had a wound infection that required reintervention.

Discussion

Decalcification of a heavily calcified CFA with CUSA appears to be feasible, although long-term follow-up examinations are warranted.

•

Surgical endarterectomy for a heavily calcified common femoral artery and its bifurcation can be challenging.

•

The authors have developed a new method for decalcification that utilizes a Cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator.

•

An important advantage of this procedure is that there is no need for tacking sutures.

Endoscopic Cytology for the Diagnosis of Chronic Enteritis and Intestinal Lymphoma in Dogs

Although cytology is a rapid diagnostic procedure in dogs, the cytologic criteria of endoscopic biopsies for chronic enteritis and intestinal lymphoma are not well defined. An immediate diagnosis using cytology would benefit patients by enabling prompt initiation of therapy. The objective of this study was to investigate the correlation between the results of endoscopic cytology and histopathology. In this study, 167 dogs with clinical signs of chronic gastrointestinal disease were included. On the basis of histopathology, the following diagnoses were determined: lymphocytic-plasmacytic enteritis in 93 dogs; eosinophilic enteritis in 5 dogs; small cell intestinal lymphoma in 45 dogs; and large cell intestinal lymphoma in 24 dogs. Two clinical pathologists retrospectively evaluated the endoscopic cytology of squash-smear preparations. The cytologic diagnoses of inflammation, small cell lymphoma, and large cell lymphoma were based on the severity of lymphocyte infiltration, the size of infiltrated lymphocytes, and eosinophil/mast cell infiltration. The clinical severity score was significantly increased along with the degree of lymphocyte infiltration evaluated by cytology. The cytologic diagnosis was in complete agreement with the histopathologic diagnosis in 136 of 167 (81.4%) cases. For the differentiation between enteritis and lymphoma, endoscopic cytology had a sensitivity of 98.6%, a specificity of 73.5%, a positive predictive value of 72.3%, and a negative predictive value of 98.6%. The log-rank test and Cox regression analysis showed that the results of cytology predicted the prognosis. These results suggest that endoscopic cytology is a useful technique to aid diagnosis of intestinal inflammation and lymphoma in dogs.

Effects of Aerobic and Resistance Training Combined with Fortified Milk on Muscle Mass, Muscle Strength, and Physical Performance in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVES

Fortified milk and resistance training (RT) increase muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance in older adults, but it remains unclear whether RT combined with aerobic training (AT) would have stronger effects on these outcomes. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of aerobic and resistance training (ART) combined with fortified milk consumption on muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance in older adults.

DESIGN

Open-labeled randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

University of Tsukuba.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifty-six older adults aged 65-79.

INTERVENTION

Participants were randomly allocated into resistance training (RT + fortified milk, n = 28) and aerobic and resistance training (ART + fortified milk, n = 28) groups. All participants attended supervised exercise programs twice a week at University of Tsukuba and ingested fortified milk every day for 12 weeks. Skeletal muscle index ([SMI]: appendicular lean mass/height2) was assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry as a muscle mass measure. One-repetition maximum strength was measured using four kinds of resistance training machines (chest press, leg extension, leg curl, and leg press) as muscle strength measures. Sit-to-stand and arm curl tests were also assessed as physical performance measures.

MEASUREMENTS

The primary measurements were muscle mass and strength. The secondary outcomes were physical performance, blood samples, habitual diet, habitual physical activity, and medication use.

RESULTS

Although the muscle strength and physical performance measures significantly improved in both groups, SMI significantly improved in only the RT group. There was no significant difference in the change in SMI and muscle strength measures between the two groups. However, the change in sit-to-stand and arm curl measures in the ART group were significantly higher than those in the RT group.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that AT before RT combined with fortified milk consumption has similar effects on skeletal muscle mass and strength compared with RT alone, but it may be a more useful strategy to improve physical performance in older adults. Although the mechanism of our intervention is uncertain, our program would be an effective prevention for sarcopenia in older adults.

Evaluation of the Lipid Concentrations after Switching from Antiretroviral Drug Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate/Emtricitabine to Abacavir Sulfate/Lamivudine in Virologically-suppressed Human Immunodeficiency Virus-infected Patients

Objective Recently, tenofovir disoproxil fumatate (TDF)-related side effects, such as renal nephrotoxicity and reduction of bone mineral density, have been reported. Consequently, increased switching from fixed-dose tablet TDF and emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) to abacavir and lamivudine (ABC/3TC) has occurred. Interestingly, while TDF has a lipid-lowering property, one of the ABC-related side effects is hyperlipidemia. Therefore, such switching could cause lipid elevation. To evaluate the change in lipid levels associated with switching from TDF/FTC to ABC/3TC in virologically-suppressed human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients. Methods This is a retrospective, single-center study. We included the HIV-infected patients whose therapy included a drug switch from TDF/FTC to ABC/3TC between September 2009 and December 2012 at Ryukyu University Hospital. The exclusion criteria were HIV-RNA >40 copies/mL on the switching day, and a documented therapy change to a lipid-lowering agent or any other antiretroviral agents within 3 months before or after switching. We compared the low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), total cholesterol (TC), and triglyceride (TG) levels before switching to three months after. Results A total of 18 patients met the inclusion criteria. The LDL, HDL, and TC levels significantly increased three months following the switch (p<0.05), with median (interquartile range) values of 17 (7, 32), 6 (2, 13), and 27 (10, 45) mg/dL, respectively. The TG values did not markedly change. Conclusion Switching from TDF/FTC to ABC/3TC resulted in significantly increased LDL, HDL, and TC levels.

A Longitudinal HbA1c Model Elucidates Genes Linked to Disease Progression on Metformin

One-third of type-2 diabetic patients respond poorly to metformin. Despite extensive research, the impact of genetic and nongenetic factors on long-term outcome is unknown. In this study we combine nonlinear mixed effect modeling with computational genetic methodologies to identify predictors of long-term response. In all, 1,056 patients contributed their genetic, demographic, and long-term HbA1c data. The top nine variants (of 12,000 variants in 267 candidate genes) accounted for approximately one-third of the variability in the disease progression parameter. Average serum creatinine level, age, and weight were determinants of symptomatic response; however, explaining negligible variability. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in CSMD1 gene (rs2617102, rs2954625) and one SNP in a pharmacologically relevant SLC22A2 gene (rs316009) influenced disease progression, with minor alleles leading to less and more favorable outcomes, respectively. Overall, our study highlights the influence of genetic factors on long-term HbA1c response and provides a computational model, which when validated, may be used to individualize treatment.

Capnography Prevents Hypoxia during Sedation for Dental Treatment: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Intravenous sedation is useful for dental treatment in patients with intellectual disabilities. However, it is often necessary to manage such patients with deep sedation because their cooperation cannot be obtained. During deep sedation, undetected hypoventilation can lead to severe complications, such as hypoxia. Recently, capnographic monitoring has been advocated as a useful technique for preventing hypoxia during sedation. This randomized control trial evaluated whether the use of capnography reduces the incidence of hypoxia during the deep sedation of patients for dental treatment. This study involved patients with intellectual disabilities who underwent dental treatment under sedation. The subjects were randomized to the intervention group (I-group) or control group (C-group). All of the patients underwent routine monitoring, as well as bispectral index (BIS) and capnographic monitoring; however, only an independent observer had access to the patients’ capnographic data during the dental procedures. Sedation was maintained at a BIS of 50 to 70 by administration of propofol. In the I-group, the independent observer signaled to the dental anesthesiologist if the capnogram indicated that the patient had been suffering from alveolar hypoventilation or apnea for >15 s. In the C-group, the observer signaled to the dental anesthesiologist if the capnogram indicated that the patient had been suffering from alveolar hypoventilation or apnea for >60 s. In both groups, the dental anesthesiologists responded to the signals using appropriate airway management strategies. The primary endpoint of this study was the incidence of hypoxia during dental treatment, which was defined as oxygen saturation of <95%. Hypoxemic episodes occurred in 13.4% and 34.8% of cases in the I-group and C-group, respectively. The incidence of hypoxia was significantly lower in the I-group. These results suggest that capnographic monitoring during deep sedation for dental treatment prevents hypoxemic episodes by allowing the early detection of hypoventilation.

Knowledge Transfer Statement: This is the first randomized controlled trial to examine whether the use of capnography reduces the incidence of hypoxia during deep sedation for dental treatment. The findings of this study can be used by clinicians to aid decision-making regarding dental sedation standards at individual clinics. Moreover, they can be used as high-level evidence during the production or updating of clinical guidelines for dental sedation by leading associations.

Vetiverianines A, B, and C: Sesquiterpenoids from Vetiveria zizanioides Roots

Three new sesquiterpenoids-vetiverianines A (1), B (2), and C (3)-and a known eudesmane sesquiterpenoid (4) were isolated from the roots of Vetiveria zizanioides. Vetiverianine A (1) has a unique carbon framework comprising a rigid tricyclic ring system. Vetiverianines B (2) and C (3) are new eremophilane sesquiterpenoids. The structures of sesquiterpenoids 1-3, including the absolute configurations, were determined by NMR spectroscopic, X-ray crystallography, and vibrational circular dichroism data analysis. Vetiverianine C (3) exhibited weak cytotoxic activity against HL-60 cells.

Age-related changes in cortical and trabecular bone mineral status: A quantitative CT study in lumbar vertebrae

Purpose: To investigate the age and sex dependence of the bone mineral status of human lumbar vertebrae with special regard to differences between cortical and trabecular bone.

Material and Methods: The study group comprised 125 normal Japanese healthy volunteers (54 males and 71 females), and was subdivided into adult male and female groups (subjects younger than 40 years), intermediate male and female groups (ages ranging between 41 and 64 years) and old male and female groups (subjects older than 65 years). The cortical bone mineral status was estimated using a single-energy quantitative CT (SE-QCT) technique, whereas trabecular bone mineral density (BMD) was estimated using a dual-energy (DE-QCT) technique.

Results: A considerable gender difference in the age-related cortical bone status was found. There was a significant reduction of the mean values of the cortical volume and BMD in the old female group compared with those obtained in the old male group.

Conclusion: The results suggest that in men, cortical and trabecular bone volume decrease very little with age. In women, cortical volume and BMD and trabecular BMD decrease with age while trabecular bone volume does not. The study showed that all variables had higher values in men than in women and that the difference increased with age.

A New Neolignan Glycoside from Vetiveria zizanioides Roots

A new neolignan glycoside (1) and four known aromatic compounds (2-5) were isolated. from the roots of Vetiveria zizanioides. The structure of compound 1 was determined based on spectroscopic analysis and hydrolysis. The structure of known flavonoid glycoside 3 was confirmed by X-ray crystallography. Compound 5 showed weak cytotoxic activity against HL-60 cells with an IC₅₀ value of 13.1 ± 0.04 μM.