Deoxynivalenol concentrations in feed ingredients and swine diets measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and high-performance liquid chromatography

The objective was to compare deoxynivalenol (DON) concentrations in feed ingredients and commercial swine diets measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Seventy feed ingredient samples consisted of corn, corn dried distillers grains with solubles, corn gluten feed, corn gluten meal, palm kernel expellers, rice bran, soy hulls, soybean meal, and wheat. Commercial swine diet samples (n = 92) were collected from 23 swine farms of varying regions in Korea and different growth stages of pigs. The DON concentration of all samples was determined in duplicate. Statistical comparisons were performed to compare the analytical methods (ELISA vs. HPLC), diet phases, and regions. The DON concentrations in most ingredients and all diets determined by ELISA method were greater than those determined by HPLC. The DON concentrations determined by the ELISA method were less than 1 mg/kg in all ingredients except corn dried distillers grains with solubles and corn gluten feed, and those determined by the HPLC were less than 0.5 mg/kg in all ingredients. The DON concentrations in complete diets did not vary by region or growth stages of pigs. The DON concentrations in most feed ingredients and commercial swine diets determined by ELISA method are greater than those determined by HPLC, but does not vary by regions in Republic of Korea or pig growth stages.

Association between Climate Factors and Dengue Fever in Asuncion, Paraguay: A Generalized Additive Model.

Dengue fever has been endemic in Paraguay since 2009 and is a major cause of public-health-management-related burdens. However, Paraguay still lacks information on the association between climate factors and dengue fever. We aimed to investigate the association between climatic factors and dengue fever in Asuncion. Cumulative dengue cases from January 2014 to December 2020 were extracted weekly, and new cases and incidence rates of dengue fever were calculated. Climate factor data were aggregated weekly, associations between dengue cases and climate factors were analyzed, and variables were selected to construct our model. A generalized additive model was used, and the best model was selected based on Akaike information criteria. Piecewise regression analyses were performed for non-linear climate factors. Wind and relative humidity were negatively associated with dengue cases, and minimum temperature was positively associated with dengue cases when the temperature was less than 21.3 °C and negatively associated with dengue when greater than 21.3 °C. Additional studies on dengue fever in Asuncion and other cities are needed to better understand dengue fever.

Comparison of three different self-expanding metal stents using rabbit models for the treatment of tracheal collapse.

PURPOSE: To identify an optimal self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) and verify whether a mechanically superior SEMS would result in better clinical outcomes in the treatment of tracheal collapse. METHODS: We selected three SEMS (n = 8 each), including an S-type stent with a wire diameter of 0.006 inches (S6) and two D-type stents with wire diameters of 0.006 (D6) and 0.007 inches (D7). Twenty-four New Zealand White rabbits were divided into three equal groups. After the stents were deployed, the clinical signs were recorded daily, and radiographic examinations were performed monthly. All rabbits were euthanized after three months. RESULTS: Two rabbits with S6 stents and one rabbit with a D7 stent died within three months because of stent migration or pneumonia. All rabbits with D6 stents survived for three months. On histological examination, the D6 group had the lowest inflammation score. CONCLUSIONS: Both clinically and histopathologically, the results with D-type stents with a wire diameter of 0.006 inches were superior to those of the other groups (p = 0.001). The use of an optimal intraluminal stent may improve the long-term clinical outcomes in the treatment of tracheal collapse in dogs.

Comparison of three different self-expanding metal stents using rabbit models for the treatment of tracheal collapse

Purpose: To identify an optimal self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) and verify whether a mechanically superior SEMS would result in better clinical outcomes in the treatment of tracheal collapse. Methods: We selected three SEMS (n = 8 each), including an S-type stent with a wire diameter of 0.006 inches (S6) and two D-type stents with wire diameters of 0.006 (D6) and 0.007 inches (D7). Twenty-four New Zealand White rabbits were divided into three equal groups. After the stents were deployed, the clinical signs were recorded daily, and radiographic examinations were performed monthly. All rabbits were euthanized after three months. Results: Two rabbits with S6 stents and one rabbit with a D7 stent died within three months because of stent migration or pneumonia. All rabbits with D6 stents survived for three months. On histological examination, the D6 group had the lowest inflammation score. Conclusions: Both clinically and histopathologically, the results with D-type stents with a wire diameter of 0.006 inches were superior to those of the other groups (p = 0.001). The use of an optimal intraluminal stent may improve the long-term clinical outcomes in the treatment of tracheal collapse in dogs.

T2 gallbladder cancer shows substantial survival variation between continents and this is not due to histopathologic criteria or pathologic sampling differences.

Published data on survival of T2 gallbladder carcinoma (GBC) from different countries show a wide range of 5-year survival rates from 30-> 70%. Recently, studies have demonstrated substantial variation between countries in terms of their approach to sampling gallbladders, and furthermore, that pathologists from different continents apply highly variable criteria in determining stage of invasion in this organ. These findings raised the question of whether these variations in pathologic evaluation could account for the vastly different survival rates of T2 GBC reported in the literature. In this study, survival of 316 GBCs from three countries (Chile n = 137, South Korea n = 105, USA n = 74), all adequately sampled (with a minimum of five tumor sections examined) and histopathologically verified as pT2 (after consensus examination by expert pathologists from three continents), was analyzed. Chilean patients had a significantly worse prognosis based on 5-year all-cause mortality (HR: 1.89, 95% CI: 1.27-2.83, p = 0.002) and disease-specific mortality (HR: 2.41, 95% CI: 1.51-3.84, p < 0.001), compared to their South Korean counterparts, even when controlled for age and sex. Comparing the USA to South Korea, the survival differences in all-cause mortality (HR: 1.75, 95% CI: 1.12-2.75, p = 0.015) and disease-specific mortality (HR: 1.94, 95% CI: 1.14-3.31, p = 0.015) were also pronounced. The 3-year disease-specific survival rates in South Korea, the USA, and Chile were 75%, 65%, and 55%, respectively, the 5-year disease-specific survival rates were 60%, 50%, and 50%, respectively, and the overall 5-year survival rates were 55%, 45%, and 35%, respectively. In conclusion, the survival of true T2 GBC in properly classified cases is neither as good nor as bad as previously documented in the literature and shows notable geographic differences even in well-sampled cases with consensus histopathologic criteria. Future studies should focus on other potential reasons including biologic, etiopathogenetic, management-related, populational, or healthcare practice-related factors that may influence the survival differences of T2 GBC in different regions.

Regional variations in Helicobacter pylori infection, gastric atrophy and gastric cancer risk: The ENIGMA study in Chile.

BACKGROUND: Regional variations in gastric cancer incidence are not explained by prevalence of Helicobacter pylori, the main cause of the disease, with several areas presenting high H. pylori prevalence but low gastric cancer incidence. The IARC worldwide H. pylori prevalence surveys (ENIGMA) aim at systematically describing age and sex-specific prevalence of H. pylori infection around the world and generating hypotheses to explain regional variations in gastric cancer risk. METHODS: We selected age- and sex-stratified population samples in two areas with different gastric cancer incidence and mortality in Chile: Antofagasta (lower rate) and Valdivia (higher rate). Participants were 1-69 years old and provided interviews and blood for anti-H. pylori antibodies (IgG, VacA, CagA, others) and atrophy biomarkers (pepsinogens). RESULTS: H. pylori seroprevalence (Age-standardized to world population) and antibodies against CagA and VacA were similar in both sites. H. pylori seroprevalence was 20% among children <10 years old, 40% among 10-19 year olds, 60% in the 20-29 year olds and close to or above 80% in those 30+ years. The comparison of the prevalence of known and potential H. pylori cofactors in gastric carcinogenesis between the high and the low risk area showed that consumption of chili products was significantly higher in Valdivia and daily non-green vegetable consumption was more common in Antofagasta. Pepsinogen levels suggestive of gastric atrophy were significantly more common and occurred at earlier ages in Valdivia, the higher risk area. In a multivariate model combining both study sites, age, chili consumption and CagA were the main risk factors for gastric atrophy. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of H. pylori infection and its virulence factors was similar in the high and the low risk area, but atrophy was more common and occurred at younger ages in the higher risk area. Dietary factors could partly explain higher rates of atrophy and gastric cancer in Valdivia. IMPACT: The ENIGMA study in Chile contributes to better understanding regional variations in gastric cancer incidence and provides essential information for public health interventions.

Integrated genomic analysis reveals mutated ELF3 as a potential gallbladder cancer vaccine candidate.

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is an aggressive gastrointestinal malignancy with no approved targeted therapy. Here, we analyze exomes (n = 160), transcriptomes (n = 115), and low pass whole genomes (n = 146) from 167 gallbladder cancers (GBCs) from patients in Korea, India and Chile. In addition, we also sequence samples from 39 GBC high-risk patients and detect evidence of early cancer-related genomic lesions. Among the several significantly mutated genes not previously linked to GBC are ETS domain genes ELF3 and EHF, CTNNB1, APC, NSD1, KAT8, STK11 and NFE2L2. A majority of ELF3 alterations are frame-shift mutations that result in several cancer-specific neoantigens that activate T-cells indicating that they are cancer vaccine candidates. In addition, we identify recurrent alterations in KEAP1/NFE2L2 and WNT pathway in GBC. Taken together, these define multiple targetable therapeutic interventions opportunities for GBC treatment and management.

Transient Fanconi Syndrome After Treatment with Firocoxib, Cefadroxil, Tramadol, and Famotidine in a Maltese.

Fanconi syndrome is a renal proximal tubulopathy characterized by excessive urinary loss of glucose, amino acids, several electrolytes, and bicarbonate. Here, we report the case of transient Fanconi syndrome in a dog following administration of firocoxib, cefadroxil, tramadol, and famotidine. A 10 mo old Maltese was presented with lethargy, anorexia, vomiting, and weight loss. Transient Fanconi syndrome without azotemia was associated with firocoxib, cefadroxil, tramadol, and famotidine treatment. The dog received supportive care including IV fluids, gastroprotectants, and oral nutritional supplements. Two months after initial diagnosis and treatment, the dog showed complete resolution of glucosuria and aminoaciduria. The unique features of Fanconi syndrome in this case emphasize the potential renal tubular toxicity of this widely used multiple-drug combination.

Cardiac Glycoside Glucoevatromonoside Induces Cancer Type-Specific Cell Death.

Cardiac glycosides (CGs) are natural compounds used traditionally to treat congestive heart diseases. Recent investigations repositioned CGs as potential anticancer agents. To discover novel cytotoxic CG scaffolds, we selected the cardenolide glucoevatromonoside (GEV) out of 46 CGs for its low nanomolar anti-lung cancer activity. GEV presented reduced toxicity toward non-cancerous cell types (lung MRC-5 and PBMC) and high-affinity binding to the Na+/K+-ATPase α subunit, assessed by computational docking. GEV-induced cell death was caspase-independent, as investigated by a multiparametric approach, and culminates in severe morphological alterations in A549 cells, monitored by transmission electron microscopy, live cell imaging and flow cytometry. This non-canonical cell death was not preceded or accompanied by exacerbation of autophagy. In the presence of GEV, markers of autophagic flux (e.g. LC3I-II conversion) were impacted, even in presence of bafilomycin A1. Cell death induction remained unaffected by calpain, cathepsin, parthanatos, or necroptosis inhibitors. Interestingly, GEV triggered caspase-dependent apoptosis in U937 acute myeloid leukemia cells, witnessing cancer-type specific cell death induction. Differential cell cycle modulation by this CG led to a G2/M arrest, cyclin B1 and p53 downregulation in A549, but not in U937 cells. We further extended the anti-cancer potential of GEV to 3D cell culture using clonogenic and spheroid formation assays and validated our findings in vivo by zebrafish xenografts. Altogether, GEV shows an interesting anticancer profile with the ability to exert cytotoxic effects via induction of different cell death modalities.

Isolation and characterization of a novel endo-beta-1, 4-glucanase from a metagenomic library of the black-goat rumen

ABSTRACT The various types of lignocellulosic biomass found in plants comprise the most abundant renewable bioresources on Earth. In this study, the ruminal microbial ecosystem of black goats was explored because of their strong ability to digest lignocellulosic forage. A metagenomic fosmid library containing 115,200 clones was prepared from the black-goat rumen and screened for a novel cellulolytic enzyme. The KG35 gene, containing a novel glycosyl hydrolase family 5 cellulase domain, was isolated and functionally characterized. The novel glycosyl hydrolase family 5 cellulase gene is composed of a 963-bp open reading frame encoding a protein of 320 amino acid residues (35.1 kDa). The deduced amino acid sequence showed the highest sequence identity (58%) for sequences from the glycosyl hydrolase family 5 cellulases. The novel glycosyl hydrolase family 5 cellulase gene was overexpressed in Escherichia coli. Substrate specificity analysis revealed that this recombinant glycosyl hydrolase family 5 cellulase functions as an endo-β-1,4-glucanase. The recombinant KG35 endo-β-1,4-glucanase showed optimal activity within the range of 30-50 °C at a pH of 6-7. The thermostability was retained and the pH was stable in the range of 30-50 °C at a pH of 5-7.

Isolation and characterization of a novel endo--1, 4-glucanase from a metagenomic library of the black-goat rumen

ABSTRACT The various types of lignocellulosic biomass found in plants comprise the most abundant renewable bioresources on Earth. In this study, the ruminal microbial ecosystem of black goats was explored because of their strong ability to digest lignocellulosic forage. A metagenomic fosmid library containing 115,200 clones was prepared from the black-goat rumen and screened for a novel cellulolytic enzyme. The KG35 gene, containing a novel glycosyl hydrolase family 5 cellulase domain, was isolated and functionally characterized. The novel glycosyl hydrolase family 5 cellulase gene is composed of a 963-bp open reading frame encoding a protein of 320 amino acid residues (35.1 kDa). The deduced amino acid sequence showed the highest sequence identity (58%) for sequences from the glycosyl hydrolase family 5 cellulases. The novel glycosyl hydrolase family 5 cellulase gene was overexpressed in Escherichia coli. Substrate specificity analysis revealed that this recombinant glycosyl hydrolase family 5 cellulase functions as an endo-β-1,4-glucanase. The recombinant KG35 endo-β-1,4-glucanase showed optimal activity within the range of 30-50 °C at a pH of 6-7. The thermostability was retained and the pH was stable in the range of 30-50 °C at a pH of 5-7.(AU)

Isolation and characterization of a novel endo-ß-1,4-glucanase from a metagenomic library of the black-goat rumen.

The various types of lignocellulosic biomass found in plants comprise the most abundant renewable bioresources on Earth. In this study, the ruminal microbial ecosystem of black goats was explored because of their strong ability to digest lignocellulosic forage. A metagenomic fosmid library containing 115,200 clones was prepared from the black-goat rumen and screened for a novel cellulolytic enzyme. The KG35 gene, containing a novel glycosyl hydrolase family 5 cellulase domain, was isolated and functionally characterized. The novel glycosyl hydrolase family 5 cellulase gene is composed of a 963-bp open reading frame encoding a protein of 320 amino acid residues (35.1kDa). The deduced amino acid sequence showed the highest sequence identity (58%) for sequences from the glycosyl hydrolase family 5 cellulases. The novel glycosyl hydrolase family 5 cellulase gene was overexpressed in Escherichia coli. Substrate specificity analysis revealed that this recombinant glycosyl hydrolase family 5 cellulase functions as an endo-ß-1,4-glucanase. The recombinant KG35 endo-ß-1,4-glucanase showed optimal activity within the range of 30-50°C at a pH of 6-7. The thermostability was retained and the pH was stable in the range of 30-50°C at a pH of 5-7.

Prognostic significance of tumour location after adjuvant chemoradiotherapy for periampullary adenocarcinoma.

PURPOSE: To analyse the outcome of adjuvant chemoradiotherapy for periampullary adenocarcinoma and the impact of tumour location as a prognosticator. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Between January 1991 and December 2002, 147 patients with periampullary cancer underwent adjuvant chemoradiotherapy after pancreaticoduodenectomy. Postoperative radiotherapy was delivered to tumour bed and regional lymph nodes up to 40 Gy at 2 Gy/fraction with a two-week planned rest. Intravenous 5-fluorouracil (500 mg/m(2)/day) was given on days 1-3 of each split course. The median follow-up period was 82 months in survivors. RESULTS: Tumour >2 cm and margin-positivity were more common in patients with pancreatic cancer than nonpancreatic periampullary cancers (p<0.0001 and 0.0780, respectively). According to the tumour location, 5-year overall survival rates of ampulla of Vater, distal common bile duct, duodenal and pancreatic head cancers were 53.0%, 50.3%, 37.5%, and 13.0%, respectively (p<0.0001). On multivariate analysis, pancreatic location (p<0.0001) and nodal involvement (p=0.0123) were associated with inferior overall survival. CONCLUSION: Regardless of its advanced histologic features, pancreatic location itself was an adverse prognostic factor affecting overall survival.