A compact x-ray diffraction system for dynamic compression experiments on pulsed-power generators

Pulsed-power generators can produce well-controlled continuous ramp compression of condensed matter for high-pressure equation-of-state studies using the magnetic loading technique. X-ray diffraction (XRD) data from dynamically compressed samples provide direct measurements of the elastic compression of the crystal lattice, onset of plastic flow, strength-strain rate dependence, structural phase transitions, and density of crystal defects, such as dislocations. Here, we present a cost-effective, compact, pulsed x-ray source for XRD measurements on pulsed-power-driven ramp-loaded samples. This combination of magnetically driven ramp compression of materials with a single, short-pulse XRD diagnostic will be a powerful capability for the dynamic materials' community to investigate in situ dynamic phase transitions critical to equation of states. We present results using this new diagnostic to evaluate lattice compression in Zr and Al and to capture signatures of phase transitions in CdS.

Cancer-associated fibroblasts at the unfavorable desmoplastic stroma promote colorectal cancer aggressiveness: potential role of ADAM9

The tumor microenvironment plays a key role in cancer aggressiveness. Desmoplastic reaction (DR), morphologically classified as Mature, Intermediate and Immature types, has previously been shown to be highly prognostic in colorectal cancer (CRC) and it consists to a large extent of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). The aim of this study was to characterize the molecular background of DR and understand the effects of CAFs in tumor aggressiveness. The prognostic significance of DR was initially examined in 1,497 patients. Then CAFs originating from patient tissues with different DR types were isolated and their impact on tumor growth was examined both in vitro and in vivo. DR was shown to be highly prognostic, with patients within the Immature DR group conferring the worst relapse-free survival. The conditioned media of CAFs from tumor with Immature-type DR (CAFs^Immature ) significantly increased proliferation and migration of CRC cell lines and growth of CRC-derived organoids compared to that of CAFs from Mature-type DR (CAFs^Mature ). Subcutaneous or orthotopic implantation of CRC cells together with CAFs^Immature in mice significantly promoted tumor growth and dissemination compared to implantation with CAFs^Mature . Systematic examination of the expression of "a disintegrin and metalloproteinases" (ADAMs) in CAFs isolated from CRC tissues showed that the secreted isoform of ADAM9 (ADAM9s) was significantly higher in CAFs^Immature than in CAFs^Mature . Knockdown of ADAM9s in CAFs^Immature abrogated the promoting effects on CRC cell proliferation and migration. CAFs-derived ADAM9s is implicated in deteriorating survival in CRC patients with Immature-type DR by increasing tumor cell proliferation and dissemination. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Histological categorisation of the desmoplastic reaction is a predictor of patient prognosis in oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma

AIMS

Histological categorisation of the desmoplastic reaction (DR) is an independent prognostic factor in colorectal cancer. However, it is unknown whether DR categorisation is predictive of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of DR categorisation in OSCC patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Data were collected from 118 patients with OSCC who underwent a curative oesophagectomy with T2 or deeper wall invasion. The DR in each tumour was classified as mature, intermediate or immature based on the presence or absence of keloid-like collagen and myxoid stroma. We identified 49 mature DR tumours, 41 intermediate DR tumours and 28 immature DR tumours. The 5-year overall survival (OS) rate was highest in the mature DR group (42.8%), followed by the intermediate DR group (25.0%) and the immature DR group (19.9%) (P = 0.022, log-rank test; P = 0.006, log-rank trend test). The 5-year disease-specific survival (DSS) rate was also highest in the mature DR group (48.5%), followed by the intermediate DR group (30.8%) and the immature DR group (26.8%) (P = 0.031, log-rank test; P = 0.010, log-rank trend test, respectively). Multivariate analysis revealed that an immature DR was an independent poor prognostic factor of OS and DSS (P = 0.002 and P = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

DR categorisation of OSCC stroma following oesophagectomy is a useful diagnostic tool and an independent prognostic marker.

Abstract 1576: Molecular profiling of the desmoplastic reaction within the colorectal tumor microenvironment using the nCounter® platform

Background & Objectives: Desmoplastic reaction (DR) refers to the presence of fibrosis at the tumor's invasive margin within the tumor microenvironment (TME). DR has been associated with cancer aggressiveness across various studies in colorectal cancer (CRC). Previously, we have suggested a histological classification of DR into 3 prognostic categories; mature, intermediate or immature, based on the presence of keloid-like collagen and myxoid stroma at the extramural desmoplastic front, and we have shown that survival outcome differs significantly among the DR categories. Although DR is significantly associated with patient prognosis, its molecular background remains unclear. NanoString nCounter® analysis platform enables the multiplex gene expression analysis with up to 800 genes from a single mRNA sample. The main focus of our study is the evaluation of the molecular profiles that may drive the development of the DR types.

Methods: Four CRC patients of each DR category were included in this study (n = 12). Surgical specimens were split into two halves, one of which was frozen and the other was fixed in formalin. DR was assessed on slides of the formalin-fixed tissues whereas the fresh frozen tissues samples were used for the molecular profiling. Four µm thick sections from the formalin-fixed samples were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. The extramural tumor front within the slides was assessed for DR classification. Samples containing myxoid stroma with area greater than a microscopic field of a ×40 objective lens were classified as immature. Samples with absence of size-significant myxoid stroma and presence of keloid-like collagens were classified as intermediate. Samples were classified as mature if neither size-significant myxoid stroma nor keloid-like collagens were present. Ten µm thick sections from the fresh frozen samples were stained with hematoxylin. Two regions of interest per tissue sample were selected: a) fibrotic stromal regions and b) tumor areas adjacent to the fibrotic stroma. A total area of 5mm2 was microdissected from each region of interest. RNA was extracted from each sample and over 1400 gene expressions were measured for each sample using the nCounter® PanCancer Progression and Immune Profiling panels. Nanostring nSolver™ analysis software was used for the data analysis.

Results: Genes associated with cell cycle and function, epithelial to mesenchymal transition and metastasis showed significantly different expression among the stromal and tumor regions of the 3 DR categories. The distribution of immune cells within the TME was also shown to be significantly different between the DR types. Although differential gene expression was observed among all the DR classes, the immature class had the most distinct pattern of gene expression compared to the other two classes.

Conclusion: This is to our knowledge the first study reporting differences in gene expression between mature, intermediate and immature DR types.

Citation Format: Ines P. Nearchou, Tadakazu Ao, Satsuki Mochizuki, Sarah Warren, Hirofumi Harashima, Peter D. Caie, Hideki Ueno. Molecular profiling of the desmoplastic reaction within the colorectal tumor microenvironment using the nCounter® platform [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 1576.

Expression and Function of a Disintegrin and Metalloproteinases in Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts of Colorectal Cancer

BACKGROUND

Cancer tissues consist of cancer cells and stroma, the latter of which dictates cancer tissue microenvironment. We recently reported that the desmoplastic reaction (DR) pattern at the invasive front in colorectal cancer (CRC) is a promising prognostic indicator. However, the molecular mechanisms of DR formation and contribution to patients' prognosis remain unclear.

SUMMARY

The tumor tissue microenvironment composed of extracellular matrix (ECM), soluble factors (growth factors/cytokine/cytokine), and stromal cells controls tumor growth and spread. Among stromal cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a key role in development of the cancer tissue microenvironment, and they are responsible for DR formation. CAFs express a disintegrin and metalloproteinases (ADAMs), which modulate cancer tissue microenvironmental factors. We isolated CAFs and normal fibroblasts from colon tissues of patients with CRC and characterized them. CAFs showed the increased expression of several ADAM species including ADAM9, ADAM10, ADAM12, and ADAM17, and the expression was further increased on the ECM-coated plates. Our in vitro and in vivo studies using CAFs and CRC cells suggest that ADAM expression is associated with the morphological DR category, and ADAMs may affect cancer malignancy through tumor proliferation in CRC. Key Message: This review summarizes the present knowledge on ADAMs in cancer and describes our recent findings regarding the molecular biological background of DR mainly by focusing on ADAMs.

Organic minerals restore the acid-base and electrolyte balance in broiler chicks with nutritionally induced metabolic acidosis

The present study evaluated the blood gas and electrolyte balance in broiler chicks fed with diets containing different levels of vitamin premix (VM) and forms of trace minerals. VM was included at 30 or 100% of commercial levels. Trace minerals were provided as either inorganic (IOM) or organic trace minerals (OTM). This experiment, which used one-day-old male broiler chicks, featured a factorial treatment structure with four treatments using 12 replicate pens (22 chicks/pen), each arranged in a randomised complete block design. An i-STAT® handheld, point-of-care, clinical analyser, loaded with blood gas, lactate and electrolyte cartridges, was used to analyse blood samples. Significant interactions for vitamin levels and mineral form were observed for bicarbonate, base excess, total carbon dioxide, ionised calcium and haematocrit levels. Using OTM, but not IOM, in the premix resulted in blood gas and electrolyte values that were comparable to those in 100% VM-fed group. The consumption of 30% VM reduced pO2 (P<0.01), sO2 (P<0.01), pH (P=0.05) and K+ with concomitant increases in lactate, glucose and Na+ (P<0.03). However, OTM tended to reverse the Na+ effect (P=0.05) along with higher partial CO2 (P<0.05). These results demonstrated the negative effects of a 30% VM diet on blood gas and electrolyte balance, which triggered nutritionally induced metabolic acidosis. However, metabolic acidosis induced by underfeeding VM (30%) was restored or normalised by using OTM, but not IOM, in the vitamin-mineral premix.

A spherical crystal diffraction imager for Sandia's Z Pulsed Power Facility

Sandia's Z Pulsed Power Facility is able to dynamically compress matter to extreme states with exceptional uniformity, duration, and size, which are ideal for investigating fundamental material properties of high energy density conditions. X-ray diffraction (XRD) is a key atomic scale probe since it provides direct observation of the compression and strain of the crystal lattice and is used to detect, identify, and quantify phase transitions. Because of the destructive nature of Z-Dynamic Material Property (DMP) experiments and low signal vs background emission levels of XRD, it is very challenging to detect a diffraction signal close to the Z-DMP load and to recover the data. We have developed a new Spherical Crystal Diffraction Imager (SCDI) diagnostic to relay and image the diffracted x-ray pattern away from the load debris field. The SCDI diagnostic utilizes the Z-Beamlet laser to generate 6.2-keV Mn-He_α x rays to probe a shock-compressed material on the Z-DMP load. A spherically bent crystal composed of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite is used to collect and focus the diffracted x rays into a 1-in. thick tungsten housing, where an image plate is used to record the data.

Organic trace minerals improve eggshell quality by improving the eggshell ultrastructure of laying hens during the late laying period

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of low inclusion levels of organic trace minerals (iron, copper, manganese, and zinc) on performance, eggshell quality, serum hormone levels, and enzyme activities of laying hens during the late laying period. A total of 405 healthy hens (HY-Line White, 50-week-old) were randomly divided into 3 treatments, with 9 replications per treatment and 15 birds per replication. The dietary treatments included a basal diet supplemented with inorganic trace minerals at commercial levels (CON), a basal diet supplemented with inorganic trace minerals at 1/3 commercial levels (ITM), and a basal diet supplemented with proteinated trace minerals at 1/3 commercial levels (TRT). The trial lasted 56 D (8 wk). Compared with the CON group, the ITM group showed decrease in (P < 0.05) egg production, eggshell strength, eggshell palisade layer, palisade layer ratio, serum estrogen, luteinizing hormone, glycosaminoglycan concentration, and carbonic anhydrase activity and increase in (P < 0.05) egg loss and mammillary layer ratio. However, the TRT group almost kept all the indices close to the CON group (P > 0.05). Furthermore, hens fed with low inclusion levels of organic trace minerals had smaller mammillary knobs (P < 0.05) than those in the CON and ITM groups. In conclusion, hens fed with low inclusion levels of proteinated trace minerals had better performance and eggshell strength than those fed with identical levels of inorganic compounds; organic trace minerals improved eggshell quality by improving the eggshell ultrastructure of laying hens during the late laying period.

Effect of manganese preconditioning and replacing inorganic manganese with organic manganese on performance of male broiler chicks

The effects of manganese (Mn) preconditioning, 96 h post-hatch followed by the replacement of inorganic Mn with different levels of organic Mn (5 to 21 D), on growth, tissue excreta Mn content, gene expression, and enzyme activity were evaluated. A total of 420 day-old male Cobb 500 broilers were divided into 2 groups. One group was fed a corn-soybean meal basal diet containing 17 mg of Mn/kg (preconditioning diet, MnPD); the second group was fed the non-preconditioning diet (NPCD), which was the MnPD supplemented with 60 mg of Mn/kg from manganese sulfate (MnSO4). On day 5, each group was divided into 5 subgroups and were randomly assigned to dietary treatments consisting of MnPD alone or MnPD supplemented with 12 or 60 mg Mn/kg Mn as MnSO4 or Mn proteinate (6 replicate cages of 6 birds). Broiler chicks that were fed the MnPD had lower (P ≤ 0.05) body weight gain (BWG) and G:F ratio when compared to those that were fed the NPCD for 4 D. Birds that were fed MnPD (1 to 4 D) and switched to MnPD supplemented with 60 mg/kg Mn (5 to 21 D) had lower (P ≤ 0.05) BWG compared to those that were fed NPCD (1 to 4 D) and switched to MnPD supplemented with 60 mg/kg Mn for 21 D. Excreta, tibia ash, liver, and heart Mn levels were increased (P ≤ 0.05) by supplemental Mn. The expression of jejunum divalent metal transporter-1 mRNA levels, as well as activities of plasma total super oxide dismutase and liver alanine transaminase, was not affected by MnPD or Mn source and levels. These results confirmed that feeding marginally deficient Mn diets to broiler chicks post-hatch does affect growth rate and tissue Mn concentration.

Polycapillary x-ray lenses for single-shot, laser-driven powder diffraction

X-ray diffraction measurements to characterize phase transitions of dynamically compressed high-Z matter at Mbar pressures require both sufficient photon energy and fluence to create data with high fidelity in a single shot. Large-scale laser systems can be used to generate x-ray sources above 10 keV utilizing line radiation of mid-Z elements. However, the laser-to-x-ray energy conversion efficiency at these energies is low, and thermal x-rays or hot electrons result in unwanted background. We employ polycapillary x-ray lenses in powder x-ray diffraction measurements using solid target x-ray emission from either the Z-Beamlet long-pulse or the Z-Petawatt (ZPW) short-pulse laser systems at Sandia National Laboratories. Polycapillary lenses allow for a 100-fold fluence increase compared to a conventional pinhole aperture while simultaneously reducing the background significantly. This enables diffraction measurements up to 16 keV at the few-photon signal level as well as diffraction experiments with ZPW at full intensity.

Investigating the effect of dietary calcium levels on ileal endogenous amino acid losses and standardized ileal amino acid digestibility in broilers and laying hens

Two studies were conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary Ca levels (low, 1% and high, 3%) on ileal endogenous amino acid losses (IEAAL) and standardized ileal amino acid digestibility (SIAAD) in broilers (BR) and laying hens (LH) fed nitrogen-free diets (NFD) and distiller's dried grain with solubles (DDGS)-based diets. A total of 384 male Cobb 500 BR and 288 LH were used in a completely randomized design (CRD) with 16 (BR) or 12 (LH) replicate cages with 6 birds/replicate. IEAAL and apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of AA were analyzed using the GLM procedure of SAS appropriate for a CRD while SIAAD values were analyzed using the GLM procedure of SAS appropriate for a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. For BR, IEAAL and N losses (mg/kg of dry matter intake, DMI) were higher (P < 0.05) when NFD with high Ca level was fed (total AA was 39%, N was 35% higher). For most of the AA, AID was higher (P < 0.05) in BR fed DDGS-based diet with high Ca level. High dietary Ca resulted in higher (P < 0.05) SIAAD for all the AA except for Arg, Lys, Met, Cys, and Tyr. For LH, AID of AA was higher (P < 0.05) for the DDGS diet with high Ca level in 13 of the 18 AA evaluated. There was interaction (P < 0.05) between diet Ca level and correction method on LH SIAAD values for Thr, Asp, Gly, and Ser. The SIAAD values for 8 AA were higher (P < 0.05) in birds on high Ca DDGS diet. Correction with low Ca NFD resulted in higher (P < 0.05) SIAAD values for all the AA. Result from this study showed that high Ca increased total IEAAL in BR by 39% but decreased same by 27% in LH. Finally, SIAAD values were increased in BR fed high Ca DDGS-based diet while SIAAD value in LH was lower when correction was done using values from high Ca-NFD fed birds.

The effect of drying method temperature, collection method, and marker type on apparent ileal amino acid digestibility in 21-day-old broilers fed corn-soybean meal-barley based diet

For accurate estimation of nutrient digestibility, an ideal drying and sampling method is required to preserve the quality of the digesta. A standard corn-soybean meal (corn-SBM) broiler starter diet was fed from d 0 to 10 before birds were placed on the experimental diets until d 21. One hundred and sixty-eight male Cobb 500 broiler chicks were used to evaluate the effect of two drying methods (freeze-dryer vs. forced air-oven) and two drying temperatures (40 vs. 55°C) (Exp 1), while ninety-six chicks were used to evaluate the effect of flushing and squeezing as well as marker types (titanium vs. chromium) on apparent ileal DM, N, Ca, P, and AA digestibility (Exp 2). There were seven (Exp 1) or eight (Exp 2) replicate cages per treatment with 6 birds/cage. Digesta from the distal two thirds of the ileum was obtained from birds following euthanasia on d 21 by squeezing (Exp 1) and squeezing or flushing (Exp 2). Samples collected were stored in the freezer at -20°C until they were either freeze-dried (FD) or oven-dried (OD) at 40 or 55°C. There were no interactions between the drying methods and drying temperatures (Exp 1) on apparent ileal DM, N, and AA digestibility. Met had the highest (92.3%) while Cys had the lowest (73.8%) digestibility value. In Exp 2, no interaction between sampling methods and marker types was observed. The effect of sampling methods was not significant except for Arg and Met where squeezing resulted in higher (P < 0.05) digestibility values. Furthermore, apparent ileal His, Ile, Cys, Ser, and Tyr digestibility tended to be higher (P < 0.1) in squeezed digesta compared to the flushed digesta. Results from these studies showed that OD ileal digesta at 40 or 55°C had no negative effect on apparent ileal AA digestibility. Likewise, marker type did not influence apparent ileal AA digestibility values.

Relationship between desmoplastic pattern and lymphocytes infiltration in pancreatic cancer

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Background: The proposed histologic desmoplastic reaction (DR) categorization and lymphocyte infiltration (LI) directly reflects tumor behavior in a modulating stromal environment and could provide valuable prognostic information for colorectal cancer patients, but the prognostic role of DR and LI has not been investigated in pancreatic cancer patients. Methods: A total of 87 pancreatic cancer patients who underwent potentially curative surgery for their tumors in our hospital (2008 to 2013) were included. DR was classified as mature, intermediate, or immature on the basis of the existence of keloid-like collagen and myxoid stroma-distinctive histologic products of extracellular matrix remodeling. LI was classified as Pattern I; circumferential lymphocytes zone without disruptions around tumor, Pattern II; lymphocytes zone with partial disruptions and thinning around tumor, Pattern III; focal lymphocytes foci around tumor at most invasive border without lymphocyte zone, and Pattern IV; no lymphocyte foci around tumor. Results: With regard to DR, 0, 23, and 64 patients were classified as mature, intermediate, and immature, respectively. Five-year overall survival rates (#%) were higher in immature group (p=0.0040) than those of intermediate group (#%). Multivariate analysis revealed that DR was an independent prognostic factor along with residual tumor (p=0.0300). With regard to LI, 0, 6, 70, and 11 patients were classified as Pattern I, Pattern II, Pattern III, and Pattern IV, respectively. There was no relationship between DR and LI. Conclusions: The DR categorization seemed to reflect tumor behavior and could provide valuable prognostic information for pancreatic cancer patients. We did not show any relationship between DR and LI in pancreatic cancer.

Effect of zinc imprinting and replacing inorganic zinc with organic zinc on early performance of broiler chicks

The goal of this study was to determine the effects of feeding a zinc (Zn) deficient diet to broiler chicks for 96 h post-hatch followed by feeding diets with different Zn sources and supplemental levels (5 to 21 d) on the growth performance, tissue, and excreta Zn content. At the start of the study, four hundred 20-day-old male broiler chicks were divided into two groups. One group was fed a corn soybean meal based diet containing 25 mg of Zn/kg (imprinting diet, ID). The second group was fed the basal diet supplemented with 40 mg of Zn/kg from Zn oxide (ZnO) (non-imprinting diet, NID). Both groups were fed these diets for 96 h. At d 5, chicks from each group were randomly assigned to the dietary treatments consisting of the basal diet alone or the basal diet supplemented with 8 or 40 mg/kg Zn as ZnO or Zn proteinate. Main effects of post-hatch Zn ID were observed on feed intake and G:F. ID decreased (P < 0.05) feed intake and improved (P < 0.05) the gain to feed ratio (G:F) of 14 and 21 d old chicks compared to G:F of chicks fed NID. Additionally, G:F for 14 and 21 d was improved (P < 0.05) by interaction of Zn source × level. Furthermore, at d 21 chicks fed the ID had a lower (P < 0.05) Zn content in the tibia ash and excreta, and a higher (P < 0.05) Zn content in the pancreas tissue compared to chicks fed NID. These results suggest that Zn imprinting can affect body Zn stores and early performance.

Compression Freezing Kinetics of Water to Ice VII

Time-resolved x-ray diffraction (XRD) of compressed liquid water shows transformation to ice VII in 6 nsec, revealing crystallization rather than amorphous solidification during compression freezing. Application of classical nucleation theory indicates heterogeneous nucleation and one-dimensional (e.g., needlelike) growth. These first XRD data demonstrate rapid growth kinetics of ice VII with implications for fundamental physics of diffusion-mediated crystallization and thermodynamic modeling of collision or impact events on ice-rich planetary bodies.

Social and behavioural determinants of consistent condom use among hotel and bar workers in Northern Tanzania

Bar and hotel workers ( n=519) in Moshi, Tanzania were interviewed to obtain information about potential predictors of condom use. Samples were collected for the diagnosis of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV. Consistent condom use was defined as always using condoms with sexual partners in the past five years. Overall consistent condom use in this population was 14.1%. In multivariate analyses, consistent condom use was inversely associated with low condom self-efficacy (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.20; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.06-0.71), low condom knowledge (AOR, 0.11; CI, 0.01-0.80), and having more than three children (AOR, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.09-0.54). Other significant predictors included perceived condom acceptability and using condoms when last exchanged sex for money or gift. These results indicate that increased specific condom knowledge, improved self-efficacy, and reduced social stigma could be effective strategies in the promotion of condom use in this population.

Analysis and implementation of a space resolving spherical crystal spectrometer for x-ray Thomson scattering experiments

The application of a space-resolving spectrometer to X-ray Thomson Scattering (XRTS) experiments has the potential to advance the study of warm dense matter. This has motivated the design of a spherical crystal spectrometer, which is a doubly focusing geometry with an overall high sensitivity and the capability of providing high-resolution, space-resolved spectra. A detailed analysis of the image fluence and crystal throughput in this geometry is carried out and analytical estimates of these quantities are presented. This analysis informed the design of a new spectrometer intended for future XRTS experiments on the Z-machine. The new spectrometer collects 6 keV x-rays with a spherically bent Ge (422) crystal and focuses the collected x-rays onto the Rowland circle. The spectrometer was built and then tested with a foam target. The resulting high-quality spectra prove that a spherical spectrometer is a viable diagnostic for XRTS experiments.

Note: Heated flyer-plate impact system

A technique for launching heated flyer plates was developed on a single-stage gas gun. This type of impact creates a well-posed mechanical state and a tunable thermal state, which is useful for calibrating dynamic temperature measurements. Proof-of-principle thermoreflectance measurements were performed using this technique. Since the target remains at room temperature until the moment of impact, heated flyers avoid differential expansion and annealing issues, allowing novel impact experiments to be performed.

Effects of yeast cell wall-derived mannan-oligosaccharides on jejunal gene expression in young broiler chickens

The use of mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS) as alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) has gained in popularity in recent years due to regulatory restrictions of using AGP in food animal production. Benefits of MOS usage include improvement on animal performance, feed efficiency, and gastrointestinal health. The molecular mechanisms of these functions however are not clear. The goal of the current study was to use a transcriptomics approach to investigate the effects of MOS on the intestinal gene expression profile of young broilers and characterize biological gene pathways responsible for the actions of MOS. One hundred and twenty 1-d-old Cobb 500 broiler chicks were randomly divided into 2 groups and were fed either a standard wheat-soybean meal-based (control) diet or the same diet supplemented with 2.2 g/kg of MOS (Bio-Mos, Alltech, Nicholasville, KY) for 3 wk, followed by jejunal gene expression profiling analysis using chicken-specific Affymetrix microarrays. Results indicated that a total of 672 genes were differentially expressed (P < 0.01 and fold change >1.2) in the jejunum by MOS supplementation. Association analysis indicated that differentially expressed genes are involved in diverse biological functions including energy production, cell death, and protein translation. Expression of 77 protein synthesis-related genes was differentially regulated by MOS in the jejunum. Further pathway analysis indicated that 15 genes related to oxidative phosphorylation were upregulated in the jejunum, and expression of genes important in cellular stress response, such as peroxiredoxin 1, superoxide dismutase 1, and thioredoxin, were also increased by MOS. Differential expression of genes associated with cellular immune processes, including lysozyme, lumican, β 2-microglobin, apolipoprotein A-1, and fibronectin 1, were also observed in MOS-fed broilers. In summary, this study systematically identified biological functions and gene pathways that are important in mediating the biological effects of MOS in broilers.

Flux-limited nonequilibrium electron energy transport in warm dense gold

An abrupt change in energy transport has been observed in femtosecond laser heated gold when the absorbed laser flux exceeds ~7×10(12) W/cm(2). Below this value, the absorbed flux is carried by ballistic motion of nonthermal electrons produced in interband excitation. Above this value energy transport appears to include ballistic transport by nonthermal electrons and heat diffusion by thermalized hot electrons. The ballistic component is limited to a flux of ~7×10(12) W/cm(2). This offers a unique benchmark for comparison with theory on nonequilibrium electron transport.

Note: Frequency-conversion photonic Doppler velocimetry with an inverted circulator

Photonic Doppler velocimetry (PDV) is a fiber-based interferometer used in dynamic compression research. Conventional PDV systems are simple to construct but do not perform well in all measurement conditions, while universal PDV systems that support many different configurations are complex and expensive. A simpler approach is the use of external, inverted circulators which can be added and removed in a modular fashion. This technique permits frequency-conversion measurements with a conventional PDV system. Using a correction to remove baseline effects, frequency conversion systems can resolve low velocity transients that conventional PDV cannot.

Effects of feeding different concentration and forms of zinc on the performance and tissue mineral status of broiler chicks

1. Two studies were conducted to investigate the effect of feeding different concentration and forms of zinc (Zn) on the performance and tibia Zn status of broiler chicks. 2. In Experiment 1, chicks fed on the control or the diet supplemented with 12?mg of Zn as sulphate had lower feed intake, weight gain and tibia Zn content than other treatment groups. Chicks given 12 and 24 mg of organic Zn in starter and grower phases, respectively, had the same performance and tibia Zn content as those fed 40 mg of Zn as sulphate and the same performance but higher tibia Zn content than those given 12 mg of Zn as organic over the 42 d. 3. In Experiment 2, chicks given 24 mg organic Zn had greater weight gain than chicks fed on the other treatment diets in the starter period. Chicks fed on the control diet had lower tibia Zn content than chicks fed other treatment diets. Chicks given 80 mg Zn as sulphate had higher tibia Zn content than chicks fed the other treatment diets except those given 40 mg of Zn as sulphate. 4. The results from these trials indicate that feeding lower concentration of Zn as organic form may better promote the growth performance of broiler chicks.

A comparative transcriptomic study of vitamin E and an algae-based antioxidant as antioxidative agents: investigation of replacing vitamin E with the algae-based antioxidant in broiler diets

Previous study indicated that inclusion of an algae-based antioxidant as an antioxidative agent [EconomasE, Alltech, Nicholasville, KY; EcoE] significantly reduced the amount of vitamin E (VE) required in broiler diets without compromising performance and meat quality. To assess the mechanisms related to the VE-saving activity of EcoE, as well as other potential functions related to EcoE and VE supplementation, we analyzed gene expression profiles of breast muscle from broilers fed a control diet, the control diet + 50 IU of VE/kg, the control diet + 100 IU of VE/kg, or the control diet + 200 g of EcoE/ton. Evaluation of the serum antioxidant capacity indicated that dietary supplementation of either a high level of VE (50 or 100 IU of VE/kg) or EcoE significantly improved bird antioxidant status. Analysis of gene expression profiles indicated that expression of 542 genes of the breast muscle were altered (P < 0.05, fold change >1.2) by dietary treatments, of which a significant part were commonly regulated by EcoE and VE (especially the control diet + 50 IU of VE/kg). In addition to the process of cellular oxidation, gene ontology analysis indicated the involvement of EcoE and VE on cell morphology, skeletal and muscular system development and function, immune response, and multiple metabolic processes, including lipid, carbohydrate, and drug metabolism. Results of this experiment indicate that the biological roles of high VE, including its activity as an antioxidant, can be greatly mimicked at the transcriptional level by EcoE, and they suggest a relationship of functional redundancy between VE and EcoE in the broiler diets.

Effect of window reflections on photonic Doppler velocimetry measurements

Photonic Doppler velocimetry (PDV) has rapidly become a standard diagnostic for measuring velocities in dynamic compression research. While free surface velocity measurements are fairly straightforward, complications occur when PDV is used to measure a dynamically loaded sample through a window. Fresnel reflections can severely affect the velocity and time resolution of PDV measurements, especially for low-velocity transients. Shock experiments of quartz compressed between two sapphire plates demonstrate how optical window reflections cause ringing in the extracted PDV velocity profile. Velocity ringing is significantly reduced by using either a wedge window or an antireflective coating.

Effect of enzyme supplementation and acidification of diets on nutrient digestibility and growth performance of broiler chicks

Two experiments were conducted to examine the effects of alpha-galactosidase supplementation and acidification of diets on nutrient digestibility and growth performance of broiler chicks. In experiment 1, dietary treatments consisted of feeding a low-energy basal diet (2.74 Mcal of ME/kg) alone, the basal diet supplemented with 1,724 units of alpha-galactosidase per kg, the basal diet supplemented with 2% citric acid, or the basal diet supplemented with both. alpha-Galactosidase significantly increased feed intake, weight gain, AME(n) of the diets, and retention of CP and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) (P < 0.05). Citric acid significantly increased the retention of DM, CP, and NDF, but decreased feed intake and weight gain. The greatest values for DM and NDF retention and for AME(n) were obtained with the combination of alpha-galactosidase plus citric acid. In experiment 2, chicks were fed diets with 2 levels of energy (2.74 or 3.11 Mcal/kg), 2 levels of citric acid (0 or 1.5%), and 2 levels of alpha-galactosidase (0 or 1,724 units/kg) in a 2 x 2 x 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. alpha-Galactosidase significantly increased the reducing sugar concentration in the crop content, whereas citric acid decreased the pH and increased the reducing sugar concentration in the crop content. Citric acid decreased the gain to feed ratio in the absence but not in the presence of alpha-galactosidase. The data from these studies indicate that acidification of diet improves the efficacy of alpha-galactosidase.

A compact strip-line pulsed power generator for isentropic compression experiments

Veloce is a medium-voltage, high-current, compact pulsed power generator developed for isentropic and shock compression experiments. Because of its increased availability and ease of operation, Veloce is well suited for studying isentropic compression experiments (ICE) in much greater detail than previously allowed with larger pulsed power machines such as the Z accelerator. Since the compact pulsed power technology used for dynamic material experiments has not been previously used, it is necessary to examine several key issues to ensure that accurate results are obtained. In the present experiments, issues such as panel and sample preparation, uniformity of loading, and edge effects were extensively examined. In addition, magnetohydrodynamic simulations using the ALEGRA code were performed to interpret the experimental results and to design improved sample/panel configurations. Examples of recent ICE studies on aluminum are presented.

Effects of organic zinc and phytase supplementation in a maize-soybean meal diet on the performance and tissue zinc content of broiler chicks

1. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Bioplex Zn (a chelated zinc proteinate) and phytase supplementation in a maize-soybean meal diet on the performance and tissue zinc (Zn) content of broiler chicks. Treatment structure consisted of a 2 x 6 factorial arrangement with two inclusions of phytase (0 or 500 PU/kg) and 6 of Bioplex Zn providing 0, 2, 4, 8, 16 and 32 mg Zn/kg diet. A total of 864 chicks were randomly assigned to each of 12 dietary treatments with 6 replicate cages of 12 chicks. 2. Dietary inclusion of phytase increased feed intake, weight gain, plasma Zn content, tibia Zn content, tibia and ash weight. 3. Dietary supplementation of Bioplex Zn linearly increased feed intake, weight gain, gain to feed ratio, plasma Zn concentration, liver Zn concentration, tibia Zn content, tibia and ash weight. 4. An interactive effect of phytase and Bioplex Zn on feed intake, weight gain, tibia Zn concentration and tibia ash weight was found. 5. One slope, straight broken-line analysis of weight gain regressed on the supplemental Zn level provided as Bioplex Zn indicated that 12 mg/kg supplemental Zn without phytase and 7.4 mg/kg supplemental Zn with phytase were required for the optimal weight gain of chicks.

Optical properties in nonequilibrium phase transitions

An open question about the dynamical behavior of materials is how phase transition occurs in highly nonequilibrium systems. One important class of study is the excitation of a solid by an ultrafast, intense laser. The preferential heating of electrons by the laser field gives rise to initial states dominated by hot electrons in a cold lattice. Using a femtosecond laser pump-probe approach, we have followed the temporal evolution of the optical properties of such a system. The results show interesting correlation to nonthermal melting and lattice disordering processes. They also reveal a liquid-plasma transition when the lattice energy density reaches a critical value.

Direct observation of the saturation of stimulated Brillouin scattering by ion-trapping-induced frequency shifts

We report the first measurement of the saturation of stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) by an ion-trapping-induced frequency shift, which was achieved by directly measuring the amplitude and absolute frequency of SBS-driven ion-acoustic waves (IAW). A frequency shift of up to 30% and a simultaneous saturation of driven IAW and SBS reflectivity were observed. The scaling of the frequency shift with the IAW amplitude compares well with theoretical calculations. We have further measured fast 30 ps oscillations of the SBS-driven IAW amplitude induced by the frequency shift.

Single-state measurement of electrical conductivity of warm dense gold

We report on a single-state measurement of electrical conductivity of warm dense gold in the solid to plasma transition regime. This is achieved using the idealized slab plasma approach of isochoric heating of ultrathin samples by a femtosecond laser, coupled with femtosecond probe measurements of reflectivity and transmission. The experiment also reveals the time scale associated with the disassembly of laser heated solid.

Nonequilibrium and non-steady-state evolution of a shock state

Using numerical simulations, we study the evolution of silicon in the passage of a constant-pressure shock wave launched from an adjacent pusher. We examine also its optical characteristics of reflectivity and emission. Our finding points to the study of shocked interfaces as a novel means to explore nonequilibrium, non-steady-state behaviors of shock states and an alternative approach to assess electron-ion equilibration rate in a shock wave. It also reveals important structures in such a shock wave in contrast to its usual notion as a propagating discontinuity. This offers some possibilities for reconciling the different findings on the compressibility of deuterium.

[A case of gastrointestinal stromal tumor of rectum, difficult to differentiate from leiomyosarcoma of prostate]

A 70 year-old male was seen at the hospital with the chief complaints of frequent miction and incomplete urinary retention. A hen's egg-sized firm mass was palpable in anterior wall of rectum by digital rectal examination. Intravenous urography showed severe bilateral hydronephroureter. Transrectal ultrasound, CT scan and MRI revealed a mass with 5 cm in diameter between prostate and rectum, and the margin of them were unclear. On needle biopsy of the tumor, leiomyosarcoma of the prostate was suspected. We performed radical cytectomy and created continent urinary reserver. Because the tumor and rectum could not be lysed, part of the rectum was resected. Histological examination showed gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) of rectum. GIST of rectum is a rare entity, and in case of contact with the prostate, it is difficult to differentiate from leiomyosarcoma of prostate.

[Two cases of primary carcinoma developed in a vesical diverticulum treated with ileal neobladder for total bladder replacement]

Two cases of carcinoma developed in vesical diverticulum were encountered. Both these males, the first, 66-year-old and the second case, 68-year-old gentleman, visited our clinic with a complaint of asymptomatic gross hematuria. Total cystectomy was performed, and an ileal neobladder was constructed for total bladder replacement in both two cases. Pathological examination of the first case revealed transitional cell carcinoma, and the second case showed adenocarcinoma mixed with transitional cell carcinoma. Although primary carcinoma developed in vesical diverticulum was initially reported by Williams in 1883, adenocarcinoma is very rare. The diagnosis is often challenging and the prognosis is dire. Both our cases were successfully treated with total cystectomy and an ileal neobladder was constructed for total bladder replacement. Careful management and aggressive therapy for such patients may make even cure possible.

Factors influencing morbidity in patients undergoing transurethral resection of the prostate

OBJECTIVES

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) has become the primary method to relieve bladder outlet obstruction for patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Data from 3861 consecutive patients with BPH who underwent TURP from 1971 to 1996 at our hospital were retrospectively analyzed.

METHODS

The patients were classified into two groups comprising 1930 patients who underwent TURP from 1971 to 1985 (early group) and 1931 patients who underwent TURP from 1985 to 1996 (late group). Risk factors associated with blood transfusions and perioperative complications were analyzed in these patients.

RESULTS

Mortality, morbidity, and blood transfusions were noted in 5 (0.1 %), 516 (13.4%), and 507 (13.1%) patients, respectively. The blood transfusion and morbidity rates decreased over the 25-year period (P <0.001, chi-square test for trends), which was reflected in a decrease in these rates in the late group (6.1% and 9.5%, respectively) compared with those of the early group (20.2% and 17.2%, respectively). Postoperative bleeding and morbidity were closely related to prostatic gland size and operating time. The most significant differences for the risk of a blood transfusion were related to resection time, the amount of tissue resected, age, and the decade (1970s, 1980s, or 1990s) in which the surgery was performed (P <0.0005), whereas resection time was significantly correlated with morbidity (P <0.0005). As risk factors for each complication, the time of surgical resection, the decade of surgery, and the amount of tissue resected directly correlated with the incidence of extravasation and hemostatic procedures (P < or =0.003), whereas the incidence of postoperative epididymitis positively correlated with a preoperative vasectomy and a closed drainage system (P <0.0005).

CONCLUSIONS

Since the 1970s, the rates of blood transfusions and morbidity have decreased for patients undergoing TURP. Advances in techniques, instrumentation, and surgical and perioperative management, including anesthesia, have made TURP a relatively safe procedure, and it remains an effective means for treating patients with BPH.

[A case of congenital penile curvature]

A case of congenital penile curvature is reported. A 21-year-old man was admitted because of penile pain curvature to the left at the erection and the difficulty of intercourse. He had no signs of Peyronie's disease and no history of penile fracture so that he was considered to have congenital penile curvature. By Nesbit's method the curvature of the penis was appropriately corrected. There were no signs of recurrence at either 1 or 5 months after the operation.

[Endothelin levels after extracorporeal shock waves, effects of renal function and blood pressure in rats]

BACKGROUND

Endothelin is a recently discovered peptide with strong vasoconstrictive effects which is of potential relevance in the development of renal hypertension and renal failure. It is secreted by endothelial cells in response to ischemia, endothelial lesions and inflammatory or traumatic processes. Endothelin level after extracorporeal shock waves, effects of renal function and blood pressure were examined in rats.

METHODS

Changes of plasma endothelin-1 (ET-1) levels after extracorporal shock waves were studied by applying 500 shock waves to both kidneys in Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Plasma ET-1 was measured before shock wave exposure and every thirty minutes up until 2 hours, then at 12 hours and 24 hours after shock wave exposure by specific sandwich enzyme immunoassay (EIA). Findings were then compared with those from the control group. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and renal plasma flow (RPF) in rats were measured before shock wave exposure and every thirty minutes up until 2 hours after shock wave exposure, moreover made evaluation when ET-1 specific antibodies were administered intravenously into WKY and SHR.

RESULTS

Plasma ET-1 was significantly increased in WKY (n = 6) and SHR (n = 7) after shock wave exposure as compared with that in the control group (p < 0.05). In SHR (n = 6), GFR temporarily decreased at 60 min but RPF remarkably decreased and renal vascular resistance (RVR) increased at 30 approximately 120 min after shock wave exposure (p < 0.05). However, infusion of ET-1 specific antibodies into SHR curbed change in those parameters, increased GFR and RPF at 60 approximately 120 min after shock wave exposure (p < 0.05). In WKY (n = 5), RPF temporarily decreased and RVR slightly increased, infusion of ET-1 specific antibodies curbed change in those parameters. MAP in SHR slightly increased at 30 min after shock wave exposure, but there was no significant change in WKY.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that plasma ET-1 levels elevated in both strains and ET-1 influenced renal function after extracorporeal shock waves, and that SHR is more sensitive to ET-1 in comparison with WKY.

Infrequent involvement of mutations on neurofibromatosis type 1, H-ras, K-ras and N-ras in urothelial tumors

The neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) gene is considered a tumor-suppressor gene whose product acts upstream of ras. The ras gene is an oncogene very commonly detected in human cancers and consists of three families, H-ras, K-ras and N-ras. These genes are converted to active oncogenes by point mutations in codon 12, 13, or 61. Examination was made of the mutations of these genes in 39 urothelial malignant tumors (31 bladder cancer, 6 renal pelvic tumor, and 2 ureter tumors) using polymerase chain reaction single-stranded conformation polymorphism and direct sequencing methods. Three of 39 (7.7%) cases showed mobility shifts in the ras family gene but no point mutations in NF1 and N-ras genes could be detected. Mutations were found in 1 case in H-ras at codon 13 (GGT-GTT/GGT) and K-ras at codon 12 in 2 cases (GGT-GCT/GGT, GGT-GTT/GGT). All 3 cases had progressed far beyond grade 2 and stage pT2. It follows from the above that NF1 and ras gene mutations are infrequent in the pathogenesis of urothelial tumors.

[Clinical feature and quality of life of urinary diversion patients with bladder cancer]

A clinical survey was performed on 95 cases who were treated by total cystectomy with urinary diversion at our hospital between August 1971 and March 1992. Urinary diversions were classified by ureterocutaneostomy (Group I) in 27 patients, ileal or colon conduit (Group II) in 45 and continent urinary reservoir (Group III) in 23. The patients ranged in age from 29 to 76 with an average age of 60.6 year and the male to female ratio was 68 to 27. Histopathological typing of bladder cancers showed 82 cases of transitional cell carcinoma, 8 cases of squamous cell carcinoma, 4 cases of adenocarcinoma, and 1 mixed carcinoma with transitional cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. At present, patients alive of Group I, II and III were 14, 27 and 16, respectively, totally 57 (60.0%) patients were alive. Five-year actuarial survival rates of Group I, II and III were 45.2%, 54.1%, and 56.8%, respectively. A questionnaire survey was carried out to assess the quality of life (QOL) of 57 alive patients. The analysis of replied questionnaire showed that even all patients of each groups adapted to the basic life activities after urinary diversion, though a step forward quality of life with hobby, travel and job were decreased postoperatively in 3 groups. We obtained results that the patients of Group III were more satisfactory with daily (bath) and social life (job) than the patients of Group I, II and preoperatively. We have a new comprehension of importance of enough informed consent and mental support to the urinary diversion patients preoperatively, and of a new operative procedure not to impair the QOL.

[Experimental studies for immunoscintigraphy of adenocarcinoma of the prostate with 125I-labeled monoclonal antibody to gamma-seminoprotein]

We established LNCaP tumor in male nude mice after inoculation of LNCaP cells. The tumor produces the organ-specific glycoproteins in the human prostate, gamma-seminoprotein (gamma-Sm), which has been verified by immunohistochemistry and enzyme immuno assay. The LNCaP tumor is composed of 2 distinct portions, namely GEL/FLUID portion and SOLID portion. The GEL/FLUID portion contains much more gamma-Sm than the SOLID portion does. The monoclonal antibody against gamma-Sm (murine IgG1, K) was radio-labeled with iodine-125 by lactoperoxidase method followed by passage over column chromatography. Finally the conjugates with specific activity of 49.8-56.6 KBq/micrograms were obtained. Biodistribution of 125I-labeled monoclonal antibody to gamma-Sm (125I-gamma MAb) was evaluated by whole-body autoradiography (ARG) and by determination of label uptake (DLU) by the LNCaP tumor using the well type gamma counter. The ARG were obtained 1-9 days after intravenous administrations of 32-38 micrograms of 125I-gamma MAb to 12 nude mice bearing LNCaP tumor. The DLU were evaluated 3, 4 and 7 days after intravenous administrations of 18-25 micrograms of 125I-gamma MAb to 9 nude mice bearing LNCaP tumor. The DLU by organs (GEL/FLUID portion, SOLID portion, liver, kidney, spleen, lung, etc.) were expressed as F-values (%) which were calculated by the following formula: F = radioactivity per gram of tissue (dpm/g) divided by injected dose per gram of animal (dpm/g) x 100 and tissue-to-blood ratios (T/B). The specific uptake by the LNCaP tumors, especially in the GEL/FLUID portion, was observed on ARG, with optimal images of the tumor evaluated 4-7 days after administrations. The F-values and T/B of the LNCaP tumors were always higher than those of other organs. Especially T/B of GEL/FLUID portion were of 6.7 and 6.3, evaluated 4 and 7 days after administration of 125I-gamma MAb respectively. These results suggest that the radio-labeled gamma MAb is applicable for immunoscintigraphy of adenocarcinoma of the prostate.

[Prophylactic combination therapy after TUR of superficial bladder cancer]

We evaluated 63 patients with superficial bladder cancer (pTa, pTl) who were treated with instillation of bleomycin +/- bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) and administration of uraciltfutraful (UFT) for prophylaxis of tumor recurrence after transurethral resection (TUR). The patients were randomly assigned to groups A and B after transurethral resection by the closed envelope method. Group A (34 cases) was designed as continuous diluted intravesical instillation of bleomycin (120 mg/2,000 ml saline solution/day repeated for 3 days), instillation BCG (40 mg/40 ml saline solution/weekly 6 times) and UFT (400 mg orally/day for 2 years maximum). Group B (29 cases) was designed as the aforementioned minus BCG instillation. Cumulative non-recurrence rates in group A and group B were 80.1% and 72.1% at the time of three years, which revealed no significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.265, generalized Wilcoxon test). The high recurrent incidence of superficial bladder cancer is primarily due to the multifocal nature of the cancer or implantation of tumor cells at the time of the subsequent transurethral resection. The procedure was performed safely with no severe side effects. Our method might be useful to reduce the recurrences of superficial bladder cancer after transurethral resection of bladder (TUR).