Search

The major- and trace-element compositions of amphiboles in andesite from Quaternary Yufu Volcano, northeastern Kyushu, Japan were analysed to investigate the generation processes of andesitic magma from Yufu Volcano. The amphiboles in andesite from Yufu volcano can be divided into two groups based on major-element composition: pargasite and magnesio-hornblende. To estimate temperature, pressure, and major- and trace-element compositions of melts in equilibrium with amphiboles, we used the recently proposed methods that can calculate temperature, pressure, major element compositions, and partition coefficients of trace-element between amphibole and melt using only the major-element compositions of amphibole. The estimated temperature, pressure, and major-element composition of melt in equilibrium with the amphibole phenocrysts indicate that each group crystallised under different conditions. These differences suggest that two magma chambers at different depths existed beneath Yufu Volcano and that the andesitic magma of Yufu Volcano was formed by mixing of the two magmas. The trace-element compositions of melts in equilibrium with the pargasite and magnesio-hornblende, estimated by applying the partition coefficients calculated from major-element compositions of amphibole to trace-element compositions of amphiboles, indicate magma derived from slab melt and the partial melting of crustal material, respectively. Because magma is a mixture of minerals and melt, we estimate the chemical compositional ranges of the two end-member magmas on the Y versus SiO2 diagram from the mixing relationship between amphibole and estimated melt, as well as phenocrysts of plagioclase, clinopyroxene, and orthopyroxene. The overlap of the estimated compositional range with the trend of whole-rock composition represents the chemical compositions of the end-members of magma mixing, yielding estimates of the mafic (SiO2 ≈ 45 wt %) and felsic (SiO2 ≈ 68 wt %) end-member magmas. Furthermore, we estimate the concentrations of other elements in the end-member magmas by substituting the estimated SiO2 concentrations of the magmas into linear regression equations between the whole-rock contents of other elements and SiO2. The trace-element compositions of the mafic and felsic end-member magmas, as estimated in this study, have similar features to those of gabbroids and Cretaceous granitic rocks, respectively, that are presumed to lie beneath Yufu Volcano. These similarities could be explained by the possibility that the compositions of the end-member magmas were influenced by basement rocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endoscopy is widely applied in the examination of gastric cancer. However, extensive knowledge and experience are required, owing to the need to examine the lesion while manipulating the endoscope. Various diagnostic support techniques have been reported for this examination. In our previous study, segmentation of invasive areas of gastric cancer was performed directly from endoscopic images and the detection sensitivity per case was 0.98. This method has challenges of false positives and computational costs because segmentation was applied to all healthy images that were captured during the examination. In this study, we propose a cascaded deep learning model to perform categorization of endoscopic images and identification of the invasive region to solve the above challenges. Endoscopic images are first classified as normal, showing early gastric cancer and showing advanced gastric cancer using a convolutional neural network. Segmentation on the extent of gastric cancer invasion is performed for the images classified as showing cancer using two separate U-Net models. In an experiment, 1208 endoscopic images collected from healthy subjects, 533 images collected from patients with early stage gastric cancer, and 637 images from patients with advanced gastric cancer were used for evaluation. The sensitivity and specificity of the proposed approach in the detection of gastric cancer via image classification were 97.0% and 99.4%, respectively. Furthermore, both detection sensitivity and specificity reached 100% in a case-based evaluation. The extent of invasion was also identified at an acceptable level, suggesting that the proposed method may be considered useful for the classification of endoscopic images and identification of the extent of cancer invasion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to clarify the association of MAFK polymorphisms (rs4268033, rs3735656, and rs10226620) with the degree of gastric mucosal atrophy and CDKN2A CpG methylation status. Methods: A total of 491 subjects were enrolled in this study. Genotypes and methylation status were determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-single-stranded conformation polymorphism and methylation-specific PCR (Fujita Health University, HM18–094). Methods: A total of 491 subjects were enrolled in this study. Genotypes and methylation status were determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-single-stranded conformation polymorphism and methylation-specific PCR (Fujita Health University, HM18-094). Results: Either rs3735656 or rs10226620, located in the 3′-UTR of MAFK, was significantly associated with the severity of gastric mucosal atrophy using a dominant genetic model (odds ratio [OR], 2.10; p = 0.0012, and OR, 1.98; p = 0.0027, respectively). However, using a recessive genetic model, no significant association was found between three polymorphisms and gastric mucosal atrophy. The serum pepsinogen I/II ratio was significantly lower in subjects with minor alleles of rs3735656 and rs10226620 than in subjects with the wild homozygous allele (p = 0.018 and 0.013, respectively). In a subgroup including 400 of the 491 subjects, the CpG of p14ARF and p16 INK4a were methylated in 132 and 112 subjects, respectively. Fifty subjects had both CpG methylations and 206 subjects had neither methylation. When comparing the groups with both and neither methylations, there were no significant associations between three polymorphisms and CDKN2A methylation using a dominant genetic model. However, all polymorphisms investigated in this study (rs4268033, rs3735656, and rs10226620) were significantly associated with CDKN2A methylation in a recessive genetic model (OR, 3.58; p = 0.0071, OR, 4.49; p = 0.0004, and OR, 3.45; p = 0.0027, respectively). Conclusions: Our results indicate that carrying the minor allele of the MAFK polymorphisms, particularly when they are located in the 3′-UTR, has a high risk for the severity of gastric mucosal atrophy; furthermore, CDKN2A CpG methylation may develop in subjects with homozygous minor allele of these polymorphisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atypical Stevens‐Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a variant of SJS with complete absence of or only few cutaneous manifestations. It usually affects children with Mycoplasma‐induced respiratory infection. It was unique because our case was induced by drug and occurred in an adult. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chemotherapy may improve outcomes in gastric cancer (GC), especially for the patients with advanced stage. To explore useful predictive factor for GC performing chemotherapy, we compared the tumor responses assessed using computed tomography (CT) with endoscopy based criteria. Methods: 192 GC patients performing chemotherapy were retrospectively studied. CT based response assessment was performed after 2 courses of treatment. Endoscopic evaluation according to The Japanese classification of gastric carcinoma was also performed at same period. Data were correlated with overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Results: Majority of the cases (n = 178, 93%) received S-1 based chemotherapy as the first line treatment. 55 (29%) and 91 (47%) cases were considered to be CT and endoscopic responders. Endoscopic responder was more clearly associated with better OS and PFS compared to CT based responder by the log-rank test (P<0.0001 vs. 0.01 and P<0.0001 vs. 0.008, respectively). The association was more striking among patients performing neoadjuvant chemotherapy (P<0.0001 vs. 0.15 and P<0.0001 vs. 0.1, respectively). Multivariate survival analysis using Cox's regression model revealed that endoscopic non-responder was the independent predictive factor, being more strongly associated with worse OS when compared to CT non-responder (hazard ratio: 4.60 vs. 1.77, 95% confidence interval: 2.83–7.49 vs.1.08–2.89, P<0.0001 vs. 0.02). More advanced T, N stage and cases who had peritoneal dissemination were significantly associated with endoscopic non-responder (all P values <0.01). Conclusion: Endoscopy based evaluation of primary lesions are clearly associated with prognosis in patients with GC who perform chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The effect of H. pylori eradication in gastric cancer prevention can be attributed to the improvement of atrophic gastritis, which is a known risk of gastric cancer. However, gastric cancer has also been diagnosed after long-term H. pylori eradication. This study aimed to clarify the association between gastric atrophy and gastric cancer after H. pylori eradication, including its clinicopathological features. Methods: A total of 55 consecutive patients with 64 early gastric cancers (EGCs) diagnosed after H. pylori eradication were enrolled. The degree of endoscopic atrophy and the histological degrees of mononuclear cell infiltration, atrophy, and metaplasia in the corpus and adjacent mucosa of the EGCs were determined and scored. Results: The majority of EGCs (63/64) were located within the endoscopically assessed atrophic mucosa or along the atrophic border. The adjacent mucosa of the EGCs presented significantly higher degrees of all histological parameters than in the corpus (mononuclear cell infiltration, 0.86+/-0.09 vs. 0.51+/-0.11, P = 0.016; atrophy, 1.77+/-0.13 vs. 0.65+/-0.14, P<0.0001; metaplasia, 1.68+/-0.13 vs. 0.48+/-0.1, P<0.0001). The degree of endoscopic atrophy improved in the patients with longer post-H. pylori eradication periods; however, this trend was not observed for the histological parameters, and high degrees of atrophy and metaplasia were observed in the adjacent mucosa of the EGCs compared with the corpus during all periods (all P<0.05). The histological degrees of atrophy and metaplasia in the adjacent mucosa were particularly higher in the patients who underwent eradication due to gastric ulcers. Conclusions: Severe gastric atrophy remained in the adjacent mucosa of the EGCs after H. pylori eradication, which may be linked to gastric carcinogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Particulate matter (PM) contributes to an increased risk of respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses, cancer, and preterm birth complications. This project assessed PM exposure in Eastern Indonesia's largest city, where air quality has not been comprehensively monitored. We examined the efficacy of wearing masks as an individual intervention effort to reduce in-transit PM exposures. Handheld particulate counters were used to investigate ambient air quality for spatial analysis, as well as the differences in exposure to PM 2.5 and PM 10 (μg/m 3 ) by different transportation methods [e.g. motorcycle (n = 97), pete-pete (n = 53), and car (n = 55); note: n = 1 means 1 m 3 of air sample]. Mask efficacy to reduce PM exposure was evaluated [e.g. surgical masks (n = 39), bandanas (n = 52), and motorcycle masks (n = 39)]. A Monte Carlo simulation was used to provide a range of uncertainty in exposure assessment. Overall PM 10 levels (91 ± 124 μg/m 3 ) were elevated compared to the World Health Organization (WHO)'s 24-hour air quality guideline (50 μg/m 3 ). While average PM 2.5 levels (9 ± 14 μg/m 3 ) were below the WHO's guideline (25 μg/m 3 ), measurements up to 139 μg/m 3 were observed. Compared to cars, average motorcycle and pete-pete PM exposures were four and three times higher for PM 2.5 , and 13 and 10 times higher for PM 10 , respectively. Only surgical masks were consistent in lowering PM 2.5 and PM 10 (p < 0.01). Young children (≤ 5) were the most vulnerable age group, and could not reach the safe dosage even when wearing surgical masks. Individual interventions can effectively reduce individual PM exposures; however, policy interventions will be needed to improve the overall air quality and create safer transportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Telomere shortening occurs with human aging in many organs and tissues and is accelerated by rapid cell turnover and oxidative injury. We measured average telomere length using quantitative real-time PCR in non-neoplastic gastric mucosa and assessed its relationship to H. pylori-related gastritis, DNA methylation, ulcer disease, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) usage. Gastric biopsies were obtained from 151 cancer-free subjects including 49 chronic NSAID users and 102 nonusers. Relative telomere length in genomic DNA was measured by real-time PCR. H. pylori infection status, histological severity of gastritis, and serum pepsinogens (PGs) were also investigated. E- cadherin ( CDH1) methylation status was determined by methylation-specific PCR (MSP). Average relative telomere length of H. pylori-infected subjects was significantly shortened when compared to H. pylori-negative subjects ( p = 0.002) and was closely associated with all histological parameter of gastritis (all p values <0.01) and CDH1 methylation ( p = 0.0002). In H. pylori-negative subjects, NSAID users presented significantly shorter telomere length than nonusers ( p = 0.028). Shorter telomere length was observed in duodenal and gastric ulcer patients compared with non-ulcer subjects among NSAID users. Telomere shortening is closely associated with severity of H. pylori-induced gastritis and CDH1 methylation status. Also, telomere shortening is accelerated by NSAID usage especially in H. pylori-negative subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People living in slums can be considered left behind with regard to national successes in achieving Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The objective of this study was to evaluate the living and working conditions of waste pickers and their children in a landfill slum located in the largest city in eastern Indonesia. A total of 113 people from the landfill slum and 1184 people from the general population participated in face-to-face interviews. Municipal solid waste (MSW) was analyzed for metals, metalloids and fecal indicator bacteria. Ambient air quality including particulate matter was measured in the landfill. Households in the landfill slum were 5.73 (p = 0.04) times more likely to be below the international poverty line (MDG 1: Poverty) and 15.6 times (p < 0.01) more likely to have no one in the household possessing a primary education (MDG 2: Universal Education), and 107 times (p < 0.01) more likely not to have improved sanitation facilities (MDG 7: Environmental Sustainability) when compared to the general population. Diarrhea is one of the leading causes of death in children under five in Indonesia. Young children living in the landfill slum were 2.87 times (p = 0.02) more likely to develop diarrhea than their general population counterparts. Other survey results and environmental measurements suggest that landfill slum children have additional adverse health effects (e.g. infections and poisoning). Poverty underlies several MDG issues that directly or indirectly affect child health. Therefore, eradicating extreme poverty will continue to be the most critical challenge for the MDGs beyond 2015. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Telomere shortening occurs with human aging in many organs and tissues and is accelerated by rapid cell turnover and oxidative injury. To clarify the clinical importance of telomere shortening in colonic mucosa in ulcerative colitis (UC), we measured average telomere length using quantitative real-time PCR in non-neoplastic colonic mucosa in UC patients and assessed its relationship to various clinical subtypes. Relative telomere length in genomic DNA was measured in colonic biopsies obtained from rectal inflammatory mucosa from 86 UC patients as well as paired non-inflammatory proximal colonic mucosae from 10 patients. Data were correlated with various clinical phenotypes. In paired samples, average relative telomere length of rectal inflammatory mucosa was shortened compared to normal appearing proximal colon in eight out of ten cases ( p = 0.01). Telomere length shortening was significantly associated with more severe Mayo endoscopic subscore ( p < 0.0001) and cases needing surgery due to toxic megacolon or cancer occurrence ( p = 0.043). When the severe clinical phenotype was defined as having at least one of following phenotypes, more than two times of hospitalization, highest Mayo endoscopic subscore, steroid dependent, refractory, or needing operation, average relative telomere length was significantly shortened in the same phenotypes than the others ( p = 0.003). Telomere shortening is associated with more severe clinical phenotypes of UC, reflecting severe inflammatory state in the colonic mucosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Taste is an important element in food preferences. Gastroesophageal reflux disease ( GERD) is related to lifestyles including eating habits. We aimed to investigate the relationship between responses to specific tastes and GERD. Methods Altogether 280 patients including 170 men with a mean age of 58.6 years were included in the study to determine the relationship between their liking for specific tastes and GERD using a new self-administered questionnaire (responses to various tastes and participants' sensitivity to taste and hot food and on the frequency of stomatitis). Another self-administrated questionnaire was administrated for a diagnosis of GERD (the frequency scale for the symptoms of GERD cut-off score of 10). Furthermore, 142 of 280 patients who had received esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) were investigated on the association between endoscopic esophagitis and their favorite tastes. Results In the association analyses between responses to specific tastes and GERD, the group liking salty food and the group with a high frequency of stomatitis had a significantly higher incidence of GERD (salty food: odds ratio [OR] 2.059, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.215-3.488, P = 0.0073; stomatitis: OR 2.861, 95% CI 1.558-5.253, P = 0.0007, respectively). In association analyses with endoscopic esophagitis, the groups liking salty and sour food had a significantly higher incidence rate of endoscopic esophagitis (salty: OR 2.718, 95% CI 1.330-5.555, P = 0.0061; sour: OR 3.267, 95% CI 1.491-7.160, P = 0.0031, respectively). Conclusions Sensitivity and response to specific food taste were associated with GERD. The results of a preference to hot or salty food and endoscopic esophagitis suggest that physical stimuli are important for esophageal injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated multiple factors that may contribute to an increased risk of childhood diarrhea in eastern Indonesia. Mothers with at least one child under the age of 5 years (n = 303) were interviewed face-to-face in two sub-districts of a large city in eastern Indonesia. Results showed that children were 4.72 times more likely to develop diarrhea if mothers washed their hands without soap after defecation (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.22–18.3;p = 0.03), 3.83 times more likely if households had no access to improved sources of drinking water (95% CI 1.12–13.1;p = 0.03), and 3.21 times more likely if households had income levels below $152/month (95% CI 1.40–7.35;p < 0.01). Although lower household income did not influence accessibility to improved drinking water sources, lower income households more likely lacked a refrigerator (odds ratio (OR) = 8.96; 95% CI 4.87–16.5;p < 0.01) and were also associated with mothers who had no primary education (OR = 5.44; 95% CI 1.71–17.3;p < 0.01). Mothers without primary education tended to think childhood diarrhea was not life threatening (OR = 10.8; 95% CI 3.45–33.6;p < 0.01), and mothers with such a perception were more likely wash their hands without soap after defecation (OR = 9.31; 95% CI 2.80–31.0;p < 0.01). In order to protect low-income children from diarrhea, it will be necessary to apply multiple health promotion efforts at both individual and community levels. Promoting mothers’ education is a key intervention for improving childhood health. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background and Aims: Fusobacterium species are part of the gut microbiome in humans, but some species have been recognized as opportunistic pathogens implicated in inflammatory diseases including inflammatory bowel diseases. Here, we performed prevalence screening of Fusobacterium in ulcerative colitis (UC) in Japanese patients. Methods: We examined Fusobacterium nucleatum ( F. nucleatum) and whole Fusobacterium species ( Pan- fusobacterium) by quantitative real-time PCR in 163 inflamed mucosae from 152 UC patients. Data were correlated with clinical subtypes of UC. Results: In an initial prevalence screen, F. nucleatum and Pan- fusobacterium were detected in 6.3 % (4/64) and 53.1 % (34/64). For all 163 mucosae, the prevalence of Pan- fusobacterium was 54.6 % (89/163). Pan- fusobacterium status was concordant in inflamed and normal adjacent samples, and the matched cases during 1-year follow-up colonoscopy. The higher amount of Pan- fusobacterium was observed in chronic continuous type compared to one attack and relapse/remitting type ( p = 0.039). The higher amount of Pan- fusobacterium was also associated with rather mild clinical course of disease, such as non-steroid dependency ( p = 0.015), non-refractory phenotype ( p = 0.013), and non-severe phenotype ( p = 0.04). Based on the distribution of Pan- fusobacterium measurable cases, we identified 10 cases as having a high amount of Pan- fusobacterium (FB-high). The clinicopathological features of FB-high UC cases were also highlighted by chronic continuous type and mild phenotypes of disease. Conclusion: Whole Fusobacterium species, but not F. nucleatum, are common in UC patients and have a role in persistence of colonic inflammation in UC. However, Fusobacterium infection is associated with rather mild clinical phenotypes of UC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a phenomenon that allows the conversion of adherent epithelial cells to a mesenchymal cell phenotype, which enhances migratory capacity and invasiveness. Recent studies have suggested that EMT contributes to the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC). We investigated the promoter DNA methylation status of EMT-related genes in the colonic mucosa in UC. Methods: Colonic biopsies were obtained from the rectal inflammatory mucosa of 86 UC patients and the non-inflammatory proximal colonic mucosa of 10 paired patients. Bisulfite pyrosequencing was used to quantify the methylation of 5 candidate CpG island promoters (NEUROG1, CDX1, miR-1247, CDH1, and CDH13) and LINE1. Results: Using an unsupervised hierarchical clustering analysis, inflamed rectal mucosa was well separated from mucosa that appeared normal. The CDH1 and CDH13 promoters were significantly associated with patient age (p = 0.04, 0.03, respectively). A similar trend was found between those genes and the duration of disease (CDH1: p = 0.07, CDH13: p = 0.0002, mean of both: p<0.00001). Several positive associations were found between hypermethylation and severe clinical phenotypes (CDX1 and miR-1247 and a refractory phenotype: p = 0.04 and 0.006, respectively. miR-1247 and CDH1 hyper methylation and a more severe Mayo endoscopic subscore: miR-1247: p = 0.0008, CDH1: p = 0.03, mean of both: p = 0.003). When the severe clinical phenotype was defined as having any of five phenotypes (hospitalized more than twice, highest Mayo endoscopic subscore, steroid dependence, refractory, or a history of surgery) miR-1247 hypermethylation was associated with the same phenotype (p = 0.008). Conclusions: Our data suggest that variability in the methylation status of EMT-related genes is associated with more severe clinical phenotypes in UC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The neurochemical serotonin (5-HT) is an important signaling molecule in the gastrointestinal motor and sensory functions. A key regulator of 5-HT levels is the transmembrane serotonin transporter (5-HTT; SLC6A4) that governs the reuptake of 5-HT. Recent studies have indicated 5-HTT expression may be regulated by epigenetic mechanisms. We investigated DNA methylation status of SLC6A4 gene in the gastric mucosa from functional dyspepsia (FD) because of their potential role in dyspeptic symptoms. Methods: Endoscopic gastric biopsies were obtained from 78 subjects with no upper abdominal symptoms and 79 patients with FD. Bisulfite Pyrosequencing was carried out to determine the methylation status of promoter CpG islands (PCGIs), promoter non-CpG islands (PNCGIs) and gene body non-CpG islands (NPNCGIs) in the SLC6A4 gene. Gene expression was examined by real-time PCR. Results: In overall, methylation level of PCGIs was significantly lower in FD compared to control subjects (p = 0.04). On the other hand, methylation level of NPNCGIs was significantly higher in FD compared to control subjects (p = 0.03). Lower methylation level in PNCGIs was highlighted in the patients with PDS (p = 0.01), while higher methylation level in NPNCGIs was more prominent in the patients with EPS (p = 0.017). Methylation levels of PCGIs and PNCGIs were inversely correlated, while methylation levels of NPNCGIs was positively correlated with SLC6A4 mRNA levels in FD patients. Conclusions: Our data suggest that change in DNA methylation pattern of SLC6A4 in the gastric mucosa may have a role for developing FD. A role of epigenetics for developing FD needs to be further evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reports of Staphylococcus aureus including methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) detected in marine environments have occurred since the early 1990s. This investigation sought to isolate and characterize S. aureus from marine waters and sand at a subtropical recreational beach, with and without bathers present, in order to investigate possible sources and to identify the risks to bathers of exposure to these organisms. During 40 days over 17 months, 1,001 water and 36 intertidal sand samples were collected by either bathers or investigators at a subtropical recreational beach. Methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) and MRSA were isolated and identified using selective growth media and an organism-specific molecular marker. Antimicrobial susceptibility, staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCC mec) type, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) pattern, multi-locus sequence type (MLST), and staphylococcal protein A ( spa) type were characterized for all MRSA. S. aureus was isolated from 248 (37 %) bather nearby water samples at a concentration range of <2-780 colony forming units per ml, 102 (31 %) ambient water samples at a concentration range of <2-260 colony forming units per ml, and 9 (25 %) sand samples. Within the sand environment, S. aureus was isolated more often from above the intertidal zone than from intermittently wet or inundated sand. A total of 1334 MSSA were isolated from 37 sampling days and 22 MRSA were isolated from ten sampling days. Seventeen of the 22 MRSA were identified by PFGE as the community-associated MRSA USA300. MRSA isolates were all SCC mec type IVa, encompassed five spa types (t008, t064, t622, t688, and t723), two MLST types (ST8 and ST5), and 21 of 22 isolates carried the genes for Panton-Valentine leukocidin. There was a correlation ( r = 0.45; p = 0.05) between the daily average number of bathers and S. aureus in the water; however, no association between exposure to S. aureus in these waters and reported illness was found. This report supports the concept that humans are a potential direct source for S. aureus in marine waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Lasail plutonic complex (4.7×3.8km), as a typical example of late stage intrusive rocks, is located to the south of Wadi Jizi, and intrudes into the base of V1 volcanic rocks and sheeted dike complex. The Lasail plutonic complex consists of various rock types ranging from ultramafic cumulates to tonalite, and is associated with minor amounts of axis stage gabbro to quartz diorite. These rocks are classified into the following eleven rock types: massive gabbro 1, quartz diorite 1 (axis stage intrusive rocks), olivine websterite, olivine gabbronorite, gabbronorite, hornblende gabbronorite, leucogabbronorite (layered gabbros), massive gabbro 2, diorite, quartz diorite 2, and tonalite (late stage intrusive rocks). The layered gabbros are intruded by the massive gabbro 2, and often occur as large irregular blocks in the massive gabbro 2. The massive gabbro 2 intrudes into the layered gabbros, and sometimes grades into hornblende gabbronorite layer of the layered gabbros. In some places, anastomosing veins of the hornblende quartz gabbronorite injected into the gabbronorite, which continue to the layer of leucogabbronorite. These gabbroic rocks are intruded by small intrusions of diorite, quartz diorite 2, and tonalite. The quartz diorite 2 forms rather larger intrusive bodies that intrude into the gabbroic rocks in the higher level. The tonalite occurs as thin dike and sheet mainly in the layered gabbros. N-MORB normalized trace element patterns for the massive gabbro 2 are characterized by enrichment of LILEs relative to REEs, and resemble to ‘subduction component’ from the island arc tholeiite except a weak enrichment for middle to light REE and P. In contrast, the massive gabbro 1 (axis stage gabbro) shows rather flat pattern similar to MORB with no remarkable ‘subduction component’. From the examination of Sr and Nd isotopic signature, the Lasail plutonic rocks are characterized by higher ε-Sr values than those of MORB. This suggests that the primitive magma of Lasail complex was influenced by the rocks with higher ε-Sr values than those of MORB, e.g., the axis stage rocks interacted with seawater. These lines of evidence suggests that the massive gabbro 2 was formed by the partial melting of residual MORB mantle which is contaminated with slab melt derived from the axis stage rocks interacted with seawater. In addition, petrogenesis of felsic rocks in the Lasail complex can be explained by the partial melting model of pre-existing layered gabbro. U–Pb zircon ages analyzed by LA-ICPMS are 100±2 and 99±2Ma for late stage tonalite and 100±1Ma for axis stage quartz diorite. These ages are slightly older than the ages reported for felsic rocks in the Oman ophiolite (ca., 95Ma), and suggest that the conversion from ridge stage to detachment stage took place rapidly. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The compounded impacts of the catastrophes that resulted from the Great East Japan Earthquake have emphasized the need to develop strategies to respond to multiple types and sources of contamination. In Japan, earthquake and tsunami-generated waste were found to have elevated levels of metals/metalloids (e.g., mercury, arsenic, and lead) with separation and sorting more difficult for tsunami-generated waste as opposed to earthquake-generated waste. Radiation contamination super- imposed on these disaster wastes has made it particularly difficult to manage the ultimate disposal resulting in delays in waste management. Work is needed to develop policies a priori for handling wastes from combined catastrophes such as those recently observed in Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: It is suggested that minimal change (grade M) esophagitis is a spectrum of gastric acid reflux disease. We evaluated the clinical significance of grade M esophagitis, including its subtypes (reddish change: MR and whitish change: MW), especially with attempt to pathological conditions in the stomach that relates to gastric acid secretion. Materials and Methods: Using 241 subjects undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy for various indications, we investigated the association between grade M esophagitis with histological and serological severity of gastritis and endoscopic degree of atrophy. We also examined its association with ulcer diseases and various symptoms. Results: When grade M cases were divided into MR and MW, all MR cases had MW in considerable degrees. Dyspeptic symptoms were more likely to be associated with H. pylori negative grade M cases, while presence of duodenal ulcer and its scar were associated with Helicobacter pylori-positive grade M cases. In all subjects, histological parameters, especially in the corpus, were lower in grade M cases compared to normal appearance. In grade M cases, degree of acute and chronic inflammation, and atrophy in corpus were lowest in cases that have grade MR. Grade M cases were also associated with higher pepsinogen I/II ratio and lower endoscopic atrophy. Conclusions: Pathological conditions of the stomach relate to higher gastric acid secretion correlates with grade M esophagitis. In grade M cases, appearance of MR may reflect higher gastric acid secretion or severe acid reflux than cases that have grade MW only. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently no U.S. federal guideline is available for assessing risk of illness from sand at recreational sites. The objectives of this study were to compute a reference level guideline for pathogens in beach sand and to compare these reference levels with measurements from a beach impacted by nonpoint sources of contamination. Reference levels were computed using quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) coupled with Monte Carlo simulations. In order to reach an equivalent level of risk of illness as set by the U.S. EPA for marine water exposure (1.9 × 10-2), levels would need to be at least about 10 oocysts/g (about 1 oocyst/g for a pica child) for Cryptosporidium, about 5 MPN/g (about 1 MPN/g for pica) for enterovirus, and less than 106 CFU/g for S. aureus. Pathogen levels measured in sand at a nonpoint source recreational beach were lower than the reference levels. More research is needed in evaluating risk from yeast and helminth exposures as well as in identifying acceptable levels of risk for skin infections associated with sand exposures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

So far, a number of association studies have focused on the effect of polymorphisms in IL-1β and TNF-α genes on the susceptibility to gastric cancer (GC). Here, we evaluate the possible association between common polymorphisms in the IL-1β and TNF-α genes with various clinicopathological characteristics, including overall survival of GC patients. Restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis was performed for IL-1β-31(T > C) and IL-1β-511(C > T) and TNF-α-857 (C > T) polymorphisms in 130 GC patients. IL-1β-31CC and IL-1β-511TT genotypes held a significantly lower risk of lymphatic invasion (IL-1β-31CC vs . others: adjusted OR = 0.39, 95% CI = 0.15-0.96, P = 0.04, IL-1β-511TT vs . others: adjusted OR = 0.23, 95% CI = 0.08-0.67, P = 0.007). The IL-1β-31CC and IL-1β-511TT genotypes were weakly associated with reduced risk of venous invasion (IL-1β-31CC vs . others: adjusted OR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.12-1.05, P = 0.06, IL-1β-511TT vs . others: adjusted OR = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.08-1.20, P = 0.09). The IL-1β-511TT genotype was also weakly associated with reduced risk of lymph node metastasis (IL-1β-511TT vs . others: adjusted OR = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.17-1.04, P = 0.06). When the TNF-α-857CT and TNF-α-857-TT genotypes were considered as T carrier, the patients with TNF-α-857T carrier showed significantly better overall survival than patients with CC genotype ( P = 0.011). GC patients who have both IL-1β-31 CC and IL-1β-511 TT genotypes and have at least one of protective genotypes (IL-1β-31 CC, IL-1β-511 TT, TNF-α-857 T carrier) were also associated with better prognostic factors, such as lymphatic and venous invasion better survival. IL-1β-31CC, IL-1β-511TT genotype, and TNF-α-857T carrier may have protective effect against GC progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Early gastric cancer located from the pyloric ring to inside the duodenal bulb (DB) is not easily treated by endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). The endoscope needs to be reversed inside the DB to set the resection line at a safe distance from the anal side. Because of the space limitations and limited flexibility of conventional endoscopy (CE), there have been increasing possibilities of complications. Here we report a new ESD technique using a transnasal endoscope (TN-E) that is reversed inside the DB. Methods: The subjects were 5 patients with early gastric cancer or adenoma, at locations ranging from the pyloric ring to inside the DB, who were all treated by ESD. We compared results in these patients (TN-E group) with results in five patients with similar disease characteristics who were treated by ESD before July 2008, when the TN-E treatment method was introduced (CE group). In the TN-E group, after marking by CE, we switched the endoscope to the TN-E, and performed the reversing procedure insidethe DB, and cut the anal side of the lesion in a semicircle. We switched back to CE to dissect the remaining half on the oral side. We compared the average resection time, en-bloc resection rate, and safety margin between the TN-E and CE groups. Results: Reversing inside the DB and the anal-side procedures proved easy and there were no complications. No bleeding or perforation occurred. The average resection times and en-bloc resection rates were not different between the two groups. All the resections by the TN-E were more than 5 mm away from the tumor margin, whereas a resection rate with a safety margin of more than 5 mm was 80% by CE. Conclusions: In conclusion, the TN-E was safe and effective for use inside the DB. ESD using the TN-E contributed to accurate pathological diagnosis, because the size of the resected specimen was sufficient to prevent the burning effect caused by the ESD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic factors, related to DNA repair or xenobiotic pathways might confer different degrees of susceptibility to gastric carcinogenesis. CpG island hyper methylation (CIHM) is a major event in gastric carcinogenesis. We evaluated the association between XRCC1, GSTP1, GSTT1 and GSTM1 polymorphisms with CIHM status in non-neoplastic gastric mucosa. XRCC1 Arg399Gln, and Arg194Trp, GSTP1 Ile104Val, and GSTT1, GSTM1 null polymorphisms were genotyped in 415 cancer free subjects, in relation to four candidate CpG (p14, p16, DAP-kinase and CDH1) loci, assessed by Methylation-Specific-Polymerase Chain Reaction (MSP). CIHM high was defined as two or more CpG islands methylated. Significant association between XRCC1 codon 399 Gln/Gln genotype and reduced susceptibility to CIHM of DAP-kinase (adjusted OR = 0.30, 95%CI = 0.13-0.71, p = .0055) and CIHM high (OR = 0.42, 95%CI = 0.19-0.97, p = .04). XRCC1 codon 399 Gin/Gln genotype also presented lower number of CIHM when compared with both Arg/Gln, and Arg/Arg + Arg/Gln genotypes ( p = .02, .046, respectively) When subjects were divided according to age (>50 and <50), an association was found between GSTM1 null genotype and increased susceptibility to CIHM high in the 50 years and older generations (OR = 1.63, 95%CI = 1.01-2.62, p = .045). XRCC1 codon 399 Gln/Gln genotype is associated with reduced susceptibility to CIHM especially DAP-kinase. GSTM1 null genotype may increase the susceptibility to CIHM especially in older patients. Genetic factors, related to DNA repair or xenobiotic pathways may have a role in CIHM-related gastric carcinogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is evidence that changes in MDR1 function and/or expression contribute to the pathogenesis of inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.Aims: We aimed to investigate the effect of C3435T polymorphism of the MDR1 gene on histological chronic gastritis, and on the risk of peptic ulcer diseases.Methods: Restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis was performed for polymorphisms at C3435T in the MDR1 gene in 556 cancer-free subjects including 116 gastric and 60 duodenal ulcers, and 380 non-ulcer subjects. Gastritis scores in the antrum were assessed according to the updated Sydney system in 384 subjects.Results: We did not find a significant association between MDR1 genotype and gastritis scores in any of the 384 subjects. However, the 3435T carrier was significantly associated with a higher degree of neutrophil infiltration in H. pylori-positive subjects (CC vs. T carrier: p=0.0495). When the H. pylori positive subjects were divided according to generation, the 3435T carrier was significantly associated with a higher degree of neutrophil infiltration in subjects more than 65 years of age (CC vs. T carrier: p=0.03). Also, the MDR1 3435 TT genotype was significantly associated with a higher degree of atrophy and intestinal metaplasia in the same generation (atrophy, TT vs. C carrier: p=0.038, intestinal metaplasia, TT vs. C carrier: p=0.016). No association was found between MDR1 genotypes and risk of peptic ulcer diseases.Conclusions: It appears that the C3435T polymorphism of MDR1 influences H. pylori-related inflammatory conditions in the stomach, especially in older subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: CpG island hypermethylation of tumor suppressor genes is highly involved in gastric carcinogenesis, and enhanced cell proliferation could accelerate this process. Cyclin D1 regulates cell cycle function and may play a role in methylation-related carcinogenesis.Aims: We investigated the association between Cyclin D1 gene G870A polymorphism and the methylation status of tumor suppressor genes in gastric cancer.Methods: Polymorphisms at G870A in the Cyclin D1 gene were genotyped, and methylation status of the p14, p16, DAP-kinase, and CDH1 genes were determined by methylation-specific-polymerase chain reaction in 139 gastric cancer tissues. CIHM high was defined as three or more methylated CpG islands.Results: Although no association was found between methylation status and different stages and Lauren's subtypes, patients with CIHM of DAP-kinase showed significantly worse survival than those without (p = 0.017). In addition, the number of methylated sites was also associated with survival curves (p = 0.0397). The 870G carrier a significantly lower prevalence of CIHM high compared to the AA genotype in advanced-stage gastric cancer (adjusted OR = 0.32, p = 0.047). A weak correlation between the same genotypes and CIHM of p14 were found in the same subtype (adjusted OR = 0.32, p = 0.052). The mean methylation number was significantly lower in G carriers than in AA genotypes in advanced-stage gastric cancer (p = 0.017).Conclusions: Genetic polymorphism of CCND1 is associated with CIHM status in gastric cancer, especially in the advanced stage, but is independent of clinico-pathological features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this work were to compare enterococci (ENT) measurements based on the membrane filter, ENT(MF) with alternatives that can provide faster results including alternative enterococci methods (e.g., chromogenic substrate (CS), and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR)), and results from regression models based upon environmental parameters that can be measured in real-time. ENT(MF) were also compared to source tracking markers (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacteroidales human and dog markers, and Catellicoccus gull marker) in an effort to interpret the variability of the signal. Results showed that concentrations of enterococci based upon MF (<2 to 3320 CFU/100 mL) were significantly different from the CS and qPCR methods (p < 0.01). The correlations between MF and CS (r = 0.58, p < 0.01) were stronger than between MF and qPCR (r ≤ 0.36, p < 0.01). Enterococci levels by MF, CS, and qPCR methods were positively correlated with turbidity and tidal height. Enterococci by MF and CS were also inversely correlated with solar radiation but enterococci by qPCR was not. The regression model based on environmental variables provided fair qualitative predictions of enterococci by MF in real-time, for daily geometric mean levels, but not for individual samples. Overall, ENT(MF) was not significantly correlated with source tracking markers with the exception of samples collected during one storm event. The inability of the regression model to predict ENT(MF) levels for individual samples is likely due to the different sources of ENT impacting the beach at any given time, making it particularly difficult to to predict short-term variability of ENT(MF) for environmental parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the methylation status of multidrug resistance 1 (MDR1) gene promoter in noncancerous gastric mucosa in relation to gastric cancer (GC) occurrence. Methylation of the MDR1 promoter was estimated in 127 GC and 82 non-GC patients. A significant association was found between higher methylation ratio and occurrence of GC. Higher methylation ratio was also associated with occurrence of GC in both Helicobacter pylori–positive and Helicobacter pylori–negative subjects. Higher MR was also associated with Helicobacter pylori infection. Methylation status of MDR1 gene in noncancerous gastric mucosa would be useful for predicting GC occurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: We investigated the relationship of gastric cancer (GC) and CpG island hypermethylation (CIHM) in tumor suppressor genes of non-neoplastic gastric mucosa. Methods: Gastric mucosa samples were obtained from 125 GC and 180 non-GC subjects. CIHM of p14, p16, DAP-kinase and CDH1 genes were determined by methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction. High CIHM was defined as three or all methylated CpG islands. Results: Rates of CIHM of p14, CDH1, DAP-kinase, and high CIHM were significantly higher in all GC samples than non-GC samples (p14: 32.2 vs. 50.4%; OR = 1.70, 95% CI = 1.03–2.80, p = 0.04, CDH1: 36.1 vs. 84.0%; OR = 8.65, 95% CI = 14.74–15.77, p < 0.0001, DAP-kinase: 42.2 vs. 83.2%; OR = 5.98, 95% CI = 3.37–10.62, p < 0.0001, and high CIHM: 44.4 vs. 80.8%; OR = 4.40, 95% CI = 2.51–7.72, p < 0.0001). CIHM in CDH1 and DAP-kinase were associated with a greater risk of GC including all of its different subtypes. An increased number of CIHM was associated with an increased risk of all GC (1 CIHM; OR = 2.33, 95% CI = 0.82–6.64, p = 0.11, 2 CIHM; OR = 4.89, 95% CI = 1.79–13.37, p = 0.002, 3 CIHM; OR = 9.43, 95% CI = 3.20–27.78, p < 0.0001, and all CIHM OR = 24.71, 95% CI = 6.70–91.18, p < 0.0001). Three and all CIHM were closely associated with a higher risk of intestinal-type GC, Helicobacter pylori-positive infection status, male gender, and middle and older GC while 3 CIHM was closely associated with a higher risk of diffuse-type GC, H. pylori-negative infection status and younger GC. Conclusions: CIHM of CDH1 and DAP-kinase in non-neoplastic gastric mucosa corresponded to a risk of GC regardless of histological subtype, H. pylori infection status, gender and generation. An increased number of CIHM correlates with a higher GC risk including its various clinico-pathological subtypes. Copyright © 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We propose an efficient and generic facial feature localization method based on a weighted vector concentration approach. Our method does not require any specific priors on facial shape but implicitly learns its structural information from a training data. Unlike previous work, facial feature points are globally estimated by the concentration of directional vectors from sampling points on a face region, and those vectors are weighted by using local likelihood patterns which discriminate the appropriate position of the feature points. The directional vectors and local likelihood patterns are provided through nearest neighbor search between local patterns around the sampling points and a trained codebook of extended templates. The combination of the global vector concentration and the verification with the local likelihood patterns achieves robust facial feature point detection. We demonstrate that our method outperforms state-of-the-art method based on the Active Shape Models in our evaluation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

There have been reports showing a protective role of aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) against gastrointestinal cancers. E-cadherin (CDH1) is an adhesion molecule involved in tumour invasion/metastasis. Silencing of CDH1 by promoter CpG island methylation was shown in gastric cancer, precancerous lesion, and Helicobacter pylori-infected chronic gastritis. We investigated the methylation status of CDH1 in noncancerous gastric mucosa in chronic aspirin user, and assessed its effect on methylation-associated carcinogenesis. Gastric mucosa samples from antrum were obtained from 217 cancer-free subjects, including 37 chronic aspirin users and 180 subjects with no history of chronic or occasional intake of aspirin. Methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR), i.e., MSP, was performed for CDH1 gene promoter. In all 217 subjects, CDH1 methylation was detected for 69 subjects (31.7%). CDH1 methylation more frequently occurred in H. pylori-infection-positive subjects (P < 0.0001), while chronic aspirin users had a significantly lower risk of CDH1 methylation [nonuser versus user 36.1% versus 10.8%; odds ratio (OR) = 0.21, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.07-0.63, P = 0.005]. Logistic regression analysis showed that chronic aspirin use was the independent factor for lower risk of CDH1 methylation (adjusted OR = 0.21, 95%CI = 0.07-0.66, P = 0.008). Chronic aspirin use was associated with lower risk of CDH1 methylation in H. pylori-positive subjects (nonuser versus user 49.5% versus 19.0%; OR = 0.24, 95%CI = 0.08-0.76, P = 0.01). Similar trend was also found in H. pylori-negative subjects (P = 0.07). No association was found between CDH1 methylation status, and duration and dose of aspirin. Our data suggest that chronic aspirin use is associated with reduced risk of CDH1 methylation in human gastric mucosa. Aspirin may have suppressive role against methylation-related gastric carcinogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DNA methylation is one of the major events in the early process of gastric carcinogenesis and it also occurs in non-neoplastic gastric mucosa. MTHFR plays a central role in biotransformation of folate to form S-adenosylmethionine, the universal methyl donor in cells and affects DNA methylation status. We investigated the association between common functional polymorphism of MTHFR C677T and DNA methylation status in H. pylori-infected non-neoplastic gastric mucosa. For 99 gastric mucosa samples from H. pylori positive non-cancer subjects, we assessed the association between MTHFR C677T genetic polymorphism and promoter methylation status of the four candidate promoters (p14, p16, DAP-kinase, and CDH1). In most all of the subjects, weak correlation was found between the p16 promoter methylation and MTHFR 677T carriers (age, sex-adjusted OR = 2.57, P = 0.053). When subjects were divided into two groups according to age, the MTHFR T carrier held a significantly higher risk of p16 promoter methylation, especially in 66 years or older generation (sex-adjusted OR = 14.28, P = 0.02). In addition, mean number of methylated CpG cites were significantly higher in T carrier than CC genotype in the same generation (P = 0.0418). Our data suggest that MTHFR 677T carrier influences the risk of DNA methylation in gastric mucosa in the long-term outcome of the H. pylori infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Traditionally, the use of enterococci has been recommended as the fecal indicator bacteria of choice for testing marine recreational water quality, and prior studies have shown that bathers shed large numbers of enterococci into the water. The current study expands upon prior research by evaluating shedding from both toddlers and adults, and by the expansion of measurements to include enterococci shedding via three different methods (membrane filter (MF), chromogenic substrate (CS), and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR)) and shedding of alternative fecal indicator bacteria (Bacteroidales human markers UCD and HF8 via qPCR). Two sets of experiments were conducted. The first experiment consisted of two groups of 10 adults who bathed together in a large pool. The second study consisted of 14 toddlers who bathed individually in a small pool which allowed for sand recovery. Sand recovery was used to estimate the amount of sand transported on the bodies of toddlers and to estimate the number of fecal indicator bacteria released from this sand. The numbers of estimated enterococci shed per adult ranged from 1.8×104 to 2.8×106 CFU, from 1.9×103 to 4.5×106 MPN, and from 3.8×105 to 5.5×106 GEU based on the MF, CS, and qPCR methods, respectively. The estimated numbers of Bacteroidales human markers ranged from 1.8×104 to 1.3×106 for UCD, and ranged from the below detection limit to 1.6×105 for HF8. The estimated amount of sand transported per toddler (n =14) into the water column after sand exposure was 8±6g on average. When normalizing the numbers of enterococci shed from toddlers via sand by the 3.9 body surface area ratio, the differences between toddlers and adults were insignificant. Contributions of sands to the total enterococci (MF) shed per toddler was 3.7±4.4% on average. Although shedding via beach sand may contribute a small fraction of the microbial load during initial bathing, it may have a significant role if bathers go to water repetitively after sand exposure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Interleukin-17A (IL-17A) and IL-17F play a role in tissue inflammation by inducing release of proinflammatory and neutrophil-mobilizing cytokines. We investigated the associations between gastric cancer and polymorphisms of IL-17A (rs2275913, G-197A) and -17F (rs763780, 7488 T/C) genes. The study was performed in 811 subjects (524 without gastric cancer and 287 with gastric cancer). We used the multiplex PCR-SSCP method to detect gene polymorphisms. Overall, the number of IL-17A/−197A allele was significantly correlated to the development of gastric cancer (OR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.09–1.85; p = 0.010). The frequency of IL-17A/−197 A/A homozygote was also significantly higher in gastric cancer group than in non-cancer group (OR, 3.02; 95% CI, 1.86–4.91; p < 0.0001). The IL-17A/G-197A polymorphism was more closely correlated to intestinal-type cancer than diffuse-type cancer. In addition, IL-17A/−197A allele carriers had an increased risk of the development of gastric mucosal atrophy (OR, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.06–2.65; p = 0.026), and a positive relationship between the inflammation score and the number of −197A allele was observed (p = 0.022). We concluded that G-197A polymorphism of IL-17A gene was significantly associated with the development of gastric cancer, especially intestinal-type cancer. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Host genetic factors may play a key role in determining the long-term outcome of the Helicobacter pylori infection. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and CD14-mediated recognition of lipo-polysaccharide (LPS) is required for efficient recognition of gram-negative bacterial infections. We investigated the effects of common polymorphisms of TLR4 Asp299Gly, Thr399Ile, and CD14 promoter-C159T on the risk of gastric cancer including its subtypes and clinicopathologic features. We also investigated the effects of these polymorphisms on histologic degree of H. pylori-induced gastritis. The study was performed in 149 gastric cancer (GC) cases [mean age 64.0 +/- 12.4, M:F = 109:40] and 94 patients without evidence of GC (mean age 64.1 +/- 12.3, M:F = 65:25, Peptic ulcer diseases = 43.6%, gastritis = 56.4%) as the control group. TLR4 Asp299Gly, Thr399Ile, and CD14 promoter-C159T were determined by PCR-RFLP in all the patients. Gastritis scores of non-cancerous gastric mucosa were assessed according to the updated Sydney system in H. pylori-positive subjects (n = 179). The frequencies of CD14-260 TT and T carrier were significantly lower in patents with intestinal-type gastric cancer than in controls (OR = 0.31; 95%CI = 0.12-0.78, OR = 0.38; 95%CI = 0.18-0.81, respectively). Compared to patients older than 61 years, the atrophy score in antrum was significantly lower in TT and CT patients. TLR4 Asp299Gly and Thr399Ile were not detected in all the patients. Our data suggests that CD14 promoter-159TT and T carrier were associated with a lower risk of developing gastric mucosal atrophy in H. pylori-infected patients of more than 61 years of age, and these genotypes may reduce the risk of intestinal-type gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tryptase acting at protease-activated receptor 2 (PAR2) contributes to the pathogenesis of Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). DNA methylation has been shown to be an important mechanism in gene silencing. We attempted to clarify the relationship between the promoter methylation of PAR2 and ulcerative colitis (UC). 84 UC patients enrolled in the study. UC patients were classified by disease behavior, severity and extent of disease. For rectal inflammatory mucosal specimens from all the patients, and normal terminal ileum from 23 patients, promoter methylation of PAR2 gene was quantified by digital densitographic analysis following to methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP). The mean methylation levels of the PAR2 gene in all 84 subjects was 38.4 ± 19.6%. Although mean methylation levels in rectal inflammatory mucosa, and paired normal terminal ileum did not vary, methylation levels of PAR2 gene was significantly higher in total colitis than rectal colitis (total colitis vs. rectal colitis; 42.9 ± 19.6% vs. 34.5 ± 18.9%, P = 0.046). The higher methylation levels were also associated with Steroid-dependent ( P = 0.002) and refractory ( P = 0.007) UC. Our data suggest that PAR2 methylation status in rectal mucosa correlates with more severe disease phenotypes of UC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Superoxide has been implicated in the pathogenesis of Helicobacter pylori-related diseases through inflammation. NADPH oxidase, a major source of superoxide generation, plays a critical role in H. pylori-related gastric inflammation. The aim of this study was to clarify the effect of the p22PHOX C242T polymorphism, an essential component of NADPH oxidase in the risk of gastroduodenal diseases, on the severity of H. pylori-induced gastritis in a Japanese population. Material and methods. The study comprised 436 patients attending the Endoscopy Center of Fujita Health University Hospital. The p22PHOX C242T polymorphism was determined by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Gastritis scores of antral gastric mucosa were assessed according to the updated Sydney system. Results. The 436 patients represented 106 gastric ulcers (24.3%), 48 duodenal ulcers (11.0%), and 282 non-ulcer subjects (64.7%). No association was found between p22PHOX polymorphism and the risk of ulcer diseases compared to non-ulcer subjects. However, among H. pylori-positive subjects, the degree of intestinal metaplasia tended to be lower in 242T carriers aged more than 60 years (p=0.0488). The same allele also decreased the risk of developing a more severe intestinal metaplasia in H. pylori-positive female subjects (p=0.0441). Conclusions. Our data suggest that the p22PHOX 242T allele is associated with a reduced risk of developing a more severe intestinal metaplasia in subjects older than 60 years of age and in female subjects with H. pylori infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Inflammation is a key factor in the process of carcinogenesis from chronic gastritis induced by Helicobacter pylori. Selenoprotein S (SEPS1) is involved in the control of the inflammatory response in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Recently the -105G>A polymorphism in the promoter of SEPS1 was shown to increase pro-inflammatory cytokine expression. We examined the association between this polymorphism and the risk of gastric cancer. Methods: We took stomach biopsies during endoscopies of 268 Japanese gastric cancer patients (193 males and 75 females, average age 65.3), and 306 control patients (184 males and 122 females, average age 62.7) and extracted the DNA from the biopsy specimens. All subjects provided written informed consent. For the genotyping of the SEPS1 promoter polymorphism at position -105G>A, PCR-RFLP methods were used and the PCR products were digested with PspGI. Logistic-regression analysis was used to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), adjusting for age, sex, and H. pylori infection status. Results: Among cases, the distribution of genotypes was as follows: 88.4% were GG, 11.2% were GA, and 0.4% were AA. Among controls, the distribution was as follows: 92.5% were GG, 7.2% were GA, and 0.3% were AA. Among males, carrying the A allele was associated with an increased odds of gastric cancer, compared with the GG genotype (OR: 2.0, 95% CI 1.0-4.1, p = 0.07). Compared with the GG genotype, carrying the A allele was significantly associated with increased risks of intestinal type gastric cancer (OR: 2.0, 95%CI 1.0-3.9, p < 0.05) as well as of gastric cancer located in the middle third of the stomach (OR: 2.0, 95%CI 1.0-3.9, p < 0.05). Conclusion: The -105G>A promoter polymorphism of SEPS1 was associated with the intestinal type of gastric cancer. This polymorphism may influence the inflammatory conditions of gastric mucosa. Larger population-based studies are needed for clarifying the relation between inflammatory responses and SEPS1 polymorphism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cyclin D1 (CCND1) is known to regulate function in G1 arrest and therefore may play an important role in carcinogenesis. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of G870A polymorphism of the CCND1 gene on gastric precancerous condition, on histological chronic gastritis, and on the risk of peptic ulcer diseases. Methods: Restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis was performed for polymorphisms at 870GA in the CCND1 gene in 524 cancer-free subjects, including 111 gastric and 54 duodenal ulcers, and 359 non-ulcer subjects. Gastritis scores of antral gastric mucosa were assessed according to the updated Sydney system in 384 subjects. Results: CCND1 genotype was significantly associated with the severity of intestinal metaplasia by the Kruskal-Wallis test, and this tendency was especially stronger among older subjects of 61 years or older (overall subjects: p=0.035, 61 years∼: p=0.007). We also found that the 870AA genotype held a significant high risk of intestinal metaplasia [ Helicobacter pylori infection adjusted odds ratio (OR)=1.8, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.03–3.15, p=0.04]. The same genotype was more closely associated with the risk of intestinal metaplasia in older subjects of 61 years or older ( H. pylori infection adjusted OR=3.45, 95% CI=1.48–8.08, p=0.004). A non-significant association was found between CCND1 G870A genotypes and the risk of peptic ulcer diseases as well as histological severity of acute or chronic inflammation. Conclusions: It appears that the G870A polymorphism of CCND1 is associated with gastric premalignant condition especially in older subjects. Clin Chem Lab Med 2008;46:1696–701. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many existing residential wood structures, such as playsets and decks, have been treated with chromated copper arsenate (CCA). This preservative chemical can be released from these structures incrementally over time through contact with rainfall. The objective of this study was to evaluate the levels of arsenic and chromium leached from an in-service CCA-treated deck exposed to rainfall, as well as their possible impacts on soils and shallow groundwater. Two monitoring stations, one containing a CCA-treated deck and the other containing an untreated deck as a control, were constructed outside for this study. Rainfall, runoff water from the decks, soils below the decks, and infiltrated water through 0. 7-m depth of soil were monitored for arsenic and chromium over a period of 3 years. The concentration of the CCA-treated deck runoff for arsenic (0. 114–4. 66 mg/L) and chromium (0. 008–0. 470 mg/L) were significantly (p <0. 001) higher than the untreated deck runoff (≤0. 002 mg/L for both). During the 3-year monitoring period, 13% of the arsenic and 1. 4% of the chromium were leached from the amount initially present in the CCA-treated wood. Arsenic levels (<0. 1–46 mg/kg) in soils under the CCA-treated deck were significantly (p <0. 001) higher than under the untreated deck (<0. 1–2. 7 mg/kg), while chromium levels were statistically the same below the two decks (2. 4–9. 6 mg/kg). Approximately 94% of the arsenic from the runoff was absorbed in the soils below the CCA-treated deck; the upper 2. 5 cm of the soils captured 42% of the total. The infiltrated water concentrations for arsenic (<0. 001–0. 085 mg/L) and chromium (<0. 001–0. 010 mg/L) below the CCA-treated deck were both significantly (p <0. 001) higher than below the untreated deck (≤0. 006 mg/L). The amounts of arsenic found in the infiltrated water below the CCA-treated deck represented 6% of total arsenic leached and less than 0. 7% of the initial mass in the wood. The study demonstrated that exposure of a CCA-treated deck to rainfall resulted in elevated arsenic concentrations in both runoff and soil. Although only a relatively small fraction of the initial arsenic from the wood was found to infiltrate through the soil, these impacts were significant and caused the infiltrated water to exceed drinking water standards. The study suggests that potential exposures to arsenic exist indirectly through an environment that is contaminated with arsenic leached from in-service CCA-treated wood. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Mulch made from recycled construction and demolition (C&D) wood has been reported to contain elevated levels of arsenic from inadvertent inclusion of chromated copper arsenate (CCA)-treated wood. Such mulch is also commonly colored with iron oxide, a compound known to bind arsenic. The objectives of this study were to quantify the releases of arsenic from mulch made from C&D wood, to evaluate the impacts of an iron-oxide colorant in potentially decreasing arsenic leaching rates, and to evaluate the relative significance of additional variables on leachate concentrations. A total of 3 sets of mulch samples (0%, 5%, or 100% CCA-treated wood) were prepared containing a sample either with or without colorant addition. Each sample was subjected to two tests: a field leaching test and the Synthetic Precipitation Leaching Procedure (SPLP). Results showed that arsenic concentrations in the field leachate from the 0% treated wood mulches were consistently low (<0.003–0.013 mg/L) whereas leachates from 5 and 100% treated wood mulches were characterized by higher arsenic concentrations (0.059–2.23 mg/L for 5%; 0.711–22.7 mg/L for 100%). The mass of arsenic leached from the field samples during the 1-year monitoring period was between 10 and 15% of the initial mass of arsenic. The colorant reduced the leaching of arsenic by more than 20% for the field leachate and 50% for the SPLP leachate, on average. However, the study showed that the effect may not last for long periods. Besides colorant addition other factors were observed to affect the amount of arsenic leached from contaminated mulch. These include the proportion of CCA-treated wood in the mulch, time, and pH of rainfall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. No general consensus has been reached on the treatment of acute gastric lesions. The aims of the present study were to clarify the effects of sucralfate, cimetidine and rabeprazole monotherapies and combination therapies on acute gastric lesions from the viewpoint of connective tissue regeneration. 2. Gastric lesions were experimentally created by the oral administration of 50% ethanol−0.15 mol/L HCl to rats. After 30 min, the anti-ulcer agents sucralfate (100 mg/kg), cimetidine (20 mg/kg) and rabeprazole (2 mg/kg) were administered separately or in combination and the stomach was excised at different times to measure the level of hydroxyproline in the gastric mucosa and determine lesion index. Immunostaining against prolylhydroxylase was performed on some specimens. 3. In the control group, lesion index decreased linearly from 30 min after ethanol–HCl administration and the level of mucosal hydroxyproline peaked between 2 and 4 h later. Although sucralfate significantly promoted lesion healing, it had no effect on mucosal hydroxyproline level. Cimetidine suppressed increases in mucosal hydroxyproline and prolonged lesion healing, but these findings were reversed by combining cimetidine and sucralfate. Rabeprazole had no significant effect on lesion healing, but promoted lesion healing in combination with sucralfate. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that prolylhydroxylase was expressed in spindle cells that lined the glandular cells in a boundary area between normal and injured tissues. 4. Under conditions in which the effects of intragastric pH are minimal, sucralfate is superior to antisecretory agents in promoting the healing of acute gastric lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report Sr, Nd, and Pb isotope compositions for 17 bulk-rock samples from the submarine Hana Ridge, Haleakala volcano, Hawaii, collected by three dives by ROV Kaiko during a joint Japan–US Hawaiian cruise in 2001. The Sr, Nd, and Pb isotope ratios for the submarine Hana Ridge lavas are similar to those of Kilauea lavas. This contrasts with the isotope ratios from the subaerial Honomanu lavas of the Haleakala shield, which are similar to Mauna Loa lavas or intermediate between the Kilauea and Mauna Loa fields. The observation that both the Kea and Loa components coexist in individual shields is inconsistent with the interpretation that the location of volcanoes within the Hawaiian chain controls the geographical distribution of the Loa and Kea trend geochemical characteristics. Isotopic and trace element ratios in Haleakala shield lavas suggest that a recycled oceanic crustal gabbroic component is present in the mantle source. The geochemical characteristics of the lavas combined with petrological modeling calculations using trace element inversion and pMELTS suggest that the melting depth progressively decreases in the mantle source during shield growth, and that the proportion of the recycled oceanic gabbroic component sampled by the melt is higher in the later stages of Hawaiian shields as the volcanoes migrate away from the central axis of the plume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Across-arc Li–B–Pb isotope systematics, together with trace element geochemistry and phase relationships in subducting slabs are used to understand the petrogenesis of lavas from the northeastern Japan arc. Pb/Nb ratios and Pb isotope compositions of the arc lavas decrease with depth to slab whereas Li/Y, U/Nb, Th/Nb and La/Sm show an upward profile across the arc, with peaks at 180 km depth to the Wadati–Benioff zone (WBZ). The peaks in these profiles may reflect the influence of lawsonite breakdown in the slab at 180 km depth. B/Nb ratios of the arc lavas do not show clear across-arc variation and the δ11B values show a concave upward across-arc profile with minimum values at around 180 km in depth of the WBZ. These results possibly reflect the decomposition of tourmaline at ∼180 km. Our results suggest that accessory minerals and minor phases in the subducting slab play important roles in determining the chemical compositions of fluid released by dehydration, and the resulting trace element and isotope composition of arc lavas. Li isotope compositions of the lavas are MORB-like and do not show systematic across-arc variation, contrasting with Izu arc lavas, which show maximum δ7Li values at the volcanic front and a systematic decrease towards the back arc. The strikingly different results for the northeastern Japan arc and the Izu arc are likely to be caused by differing extents of Li isotope fractionation due to differing subduction zone physical characteristics, such as thermal structure of the subducting slab and subduction angle. Thus, not only chemical characteristics of the subducting slab but also the physical, as well as chemical characteristics of the subduction zone could affect the Li isotope compositions of subducting slabs, producing heterogeneity in the Li isotope composition of the mantle. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The microbial water quality at two beaches, Hobie Beach and Crandon Beach, in Miami-Dade County, Florida, USA was measured using multiple microbial indicators for the purpose of evaluating correlations between microbes and for identifying possible sources of contamination. The indicator microbes chosen for this study (enterococci, Escherichia coli, fecal coliform, total coliform and C. perfringens) were evaluated through three different sampling efforts. These efforts included daily measurements at four locations during a wet season month and a dry season month, spatially intensive water sampling during low- and high-tide periods, and a sand sampling effort. Results indicated that concentrations did not vary in a consistent fashion between one indicator microbe and another. Daily water quality frequently exceeded guideline levels at Hobie Beach for all indicator microbes except for fecal coliform, which never exceeded the guideline. Except for total coliform, the concentrations of microbes did not change significantly between seasons in spite of the fact that the physical–chemical parameters (rainfall, temperature, pH, and salinity) changed significantly between the two monitoring periods. Spatially intense water sampling showed that the concentrations of microbes were significantly different with distance from the shoreline. The highest concentrations were observed at shoreline points and decreased at offshore points. Furthermore, the highest concentrations of indicator microbe concentrations were observed at high tide, when the wash zone area of the beach was submerged. Beach sands within the wash zone tested positive for all indicator microbes, thereby suggesting that this zone may serve as the source of indicator microbes. Ultimate sources of indicator microbes to this zone may include humans, animals, and possibly the survival and regrowth of indicator microbes due to the unique environmental conditions found within this zone. Overall, the results of this study indicated that the concentrations of indicator microbes do not necessarily correlate with one another. Exceedence of water quality guidelines, and thus the frequency of beach advisories, depends upon which indicator microbe is chosen. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The enteric pathogen Shigella utilizes host-encoded proteins to invade the gastrointestinal tract. Efficient invasion of host cells requires the stimulation of Rho-family GTPases and cytoskeletal alterations by Shigella-encoded IpaC . Following invasion and lysis of the phagosome, Shigella exploits the host''s actin-based polymerization machinery to assemble an actin tail that serves as the propulsive force required for spreading within and between cells . The Shigella surface protein IcsA stimulates actin-tail formation by recruiting host-encoded N-WASP to drive Arp2/3-mediated actin assembly . N-WASP is absolutely required for Shigella motility, but not for Shigella invasion . Although Rho-family GTPases have been implicated in both the invasion and motility of Shigella, the role of Cdc42, an N-WASP activator, in this process has been controversial . In these studies, we have examined the role of Cdc42 in Shigella invasion and actin-based motility using Cdc42-deficient cells. We demonstrate that Cdc42 is required for efficient Shigella invasion but reveal a minor Cdc42-independent pathway that can permit Shigella invasion. However, the actin-based motility of Shigella, as well as vaccinia, proceeds unperturbed in the absence of Cdc42. These data further support the involvement of distinct host-encoded proteins in the steps regulating invasion and intercellular spread of Shigella. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: CpG methylation of tumor suppressor genes occurs in the early stage of carcinogenesis. Detecting risk factors for aberrant CpG methylation is clinically important for predicting cancer development. DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) 3a is considered to play critical roles in the DNA methylation process during pathogenesis. In this study, we evaluated the association between DNMT3A polymorphisms (rs6733868 and rs13428812) and CpG methylation status in non-cancerous gastric mucosa. Methods: We determined the DNMT3A genotype and CpG methylation status of 4 genes (p14ARF, p16INK4a, DAPK, and CDH1) in 510 subjects without gastric cancer. Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection status was determined by the rapid urease test, urea breath test, speculum examination, or serum antibody test. We determined the DNMT3A genotype using polymerase chain reaction single-strand conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP). CpG methylation status was determined by methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP). When the methylated band was stronger than 10 ng/μL according to the DNA marker, we judged CpG island hypermethylation (CIHM) to be present. Associations between genotypes and susceptibilities were assessed by logistic regression analysis. Results: The minor allele frequencies of both polymorphisms (rs6733868 and rs13428812) were lower in the CpG methylated groups of each of the 4 genes (p14ARF, p16INK4a, DAPK, and CDH1). Using a dominant genetic model, rs6733868 was significantly associated with the hypermethylation of each gene, whereas rs13428812 was associated with the methylation of 3 genes (all except p14ARF). When low-CIHM was defined as 1 or 2 CpG islands methylated and high-CIHM was defined as 3 or more CpG islands methylated, carrying the minor allele of rs6733868 was associated with both decreased low- and high-CIHM, and that of rs13428812 also was associated with a decrease. Comparing low-CIHM with high-CIHM, carrying the minor alleles of rs6733868 or rs13428812 was related to decreased susceptibility to high-CIHM. In HP-infected subjects, carrying the minor alleles of rs6733868 or rs13428812 had a significantly greater association with decreased susceptibility to high-CIHM. Conclusions: Our study indicates that polymorphisms of DNMT3A are associated with the accumulation of gene methylation in gastric mucosa. Carrying the minor alleles of rs6733868 or rs13428812 inhibits aberrant gene methylations, which are typically enhanced by HP infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: CDKN2A hypermethylation is among the major events associated with carcinogenesis and is also observed in non-neoplastic colonic mucosa in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) plays a crucial role in promoting gastrointestinal inflammation characteristic of UC. The aim of this study is to explore associations between CDKN2A methylation status and MIF polymorphisms (rs755622 and rs5844572). Methods: One hundred and fifty-nine patients diagnosed with UC were enrolled in this study. The methylation status of p14ARF and p16INK4a was determined by MSP; MIF genotypes were identified by PCR-SSCP. Results: We found no differences with respect to mean age, gender, clinical type (chronic continuous or relapse/remitting), or extent of disease among the patients with methylated and unmethylated p14ARF or p16INK4a. Carrying the rs755622 C allele indicated a significantly higher risk for p14ARF methylation (odds ratio (OR), 2.16; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.08–4.32; p = 0.030); similarly, carrying the rs5844572 7-repeat allele indicated a significantly higher risk for p16INK4a methylation (OR, 2.57; 95% CI, 1.26–5.24; p = 0.0094) after an adjusted regression analysis. The carriers of the rs755662 C allele or the rs5844572 7-repeat allele were both at a significantly higher risk for methylation of both p14ARF and p16INK4a when compared to the cohort in which neither of the genes were methylated (OR, 2.70; 95% CI, 1.22–6.01; p = 0.015 and OR, 2.87; 95% CI, 1.25–6.62; p = 0.013, respectively). Additionally, carrying rs755622 C allele was significantly associated with CIHM in chronic continuous of clinical type and total colitis (OR, 25.9; 95% CI, 2.55–262.6; p = 0.0059 and OR, 4.38; 95% CI, 1.12–17.2; p = 0.034, respectively), and carrying 7-repeat allele of rs5844572 was significantly associated in chronic continuous type (OR, 14.5; 95%CI, 1.46–144.3; p = 0.022). Conclusions: Taken together, our findings suggest that MIF genotypes associated with inflammation may also be involved in promoting carcinogenesis via CDKN2A hypermethylation in patients diagnosed with UC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decay rates of bacteriophage P22 and Staphylococcus aureus on six types of common household inanimate surfaces were evaluated based on cultivation and quantitative PCR. A much higher level of inactivation was observed using the plate assay, suggesting that detection of the pathogen genome in samples from fomites does not necessarily imply a health risk to humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the first measurement of bioavailable strontium (87Sr/86Sr) and lead (206Pb/204Pb, 207Pb/204Pb, and 208Pb/204Pb) isotope ratios from five cattle bones and one soil sample from Erenda, a Chalcolithic site in coastal east India. Bioavailable 87Sr/86Sr of bones differ from that of the soil. A similar Pb isotope ratio of bones to the soil indicates insignificant diagenesis and local origin of the cattle. Our result suggests a potential influence of marine Sr in modifying the bioavailable 87Sr/86Sr ratio, although the current coastline is 30 km from the site. The finding has implications in archaeological, geological, environmental and ecological research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The combination of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (Atz/Bev) is now widely used in clinical practice as a first-line treatment for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the established regimen for post-treatment after Atz/Bev is unknown. We investigated the efficacy and safety of cabozantinib in patients previously treated with Atz/Bev in real clinical practice, with a focus on whether patients met criteria of Child–Pugh Class A and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG-PS) score 0/1 at baseline. Our results suggest that cabozantinib in patients with advanced HCC previously treated with Atz/Bev can be expected to yield similar outcomes to those seen in the CELESTIAL trial conducted using cabozantinib for post-sorafenib treatment if patients have good liver function and are in good general condition. (1) Background: This study aimed to investigate clinical outcomes for cabozantinib in clinical practice in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) previously treated with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (Atz/Bev), with a focus on whether patients met criteria of Child–Pugh Class A and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG-PS) score 0/1 at baseline. (2) Methods: Eleven patients (57.9%) met the criteria of both Child–Pugh class A and ECOG-PS score 0/1 (CP-A+PS-0/1 group) and eight patients (42.1%) did not (Non-CP-A+PS-0/1 group); efficacy and safety were retrospectively evaluated. (3) Results: Disease control rate was significantly higher in the CP-A+PS-0/1 group (81.1%) than in the non-CP-A+PS-0/1 group (12.5%). Median progression-free survival, overall survival and duration of cabozantinib treatment were significantly longer in the CP-A+PS-0/1 group (3.9 months, 13.4 months, and 8.3 months, respectively) than in the Non-CP-A+PS-0/1 group (1.2 months, 1.7 months, and 0.8 months, respectively). Median daily dose of cabozantinib was significantly higher in the CP-A+PS-0/1 group (22.9 mg/day) than in the non-CP-A+PS-0/1 group (16.9 mg/day). (4) Conclusions: Cabozantinib in patients previously treated with Atz/Bev has potential therapeutic efficacy and safety if patients have good liver function (Child–Pugh A) and are in good general condition (ECOG-PS 0/1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]