FB Group Research Articles

Effects of Compost-Bedded Pack Barn on Circulating Cortisol and Beta-Endorphins in Dairy Cows: A Case Study.

Simple SummaryManagement and housing conditions have been reported to significantly affect the health and welfare of livestock species. Therefore, the adoption of novel, alternative housing systems (such as the compost-bedded pack barn, developed in the USA) requires extensive research to assess the implications for animal welfare. From a general point of view, animal welfare is typically assessed by means of animal-based (such as blood biochemical markers) and resource-based (such as management practices) indicators. Based on such considerations, the present study evaluated the fluctuation of circulating cortisol and beta-endorphins in dairy cows housed in a conventional freestall barn (FB) and in the alternative compost-bedded pack barn (CB). The results obtained suggest that the CB housing system did not elicit significant changes in either blood cortisol or beta-endorphins.The up-to-date literature suggests that the compost-bedded pack barn housing system is capable of remarkably improving productive and reproductive performance, as well as health status and welfare, in dairy cattle. However, there is currently limited knowledge available on the endocrine and biochemical changes in animals housed in such alternative systems. Therefore, this study aimed to measure blood cortisol (COR) and beta-endorphins (BE) in 22 two-year-old primiparae Fleckvieh cows, who were randomly allotted to the following two different housing systems: CB (n = 11) and FB (n = 11). Blood samples were collected at the beginning of the experiment (T0) and every two months thereafter (T1, T2, and T3). The COR and BE were measured through an immunoenzymatic kit. With the only exception being T0, no differences were observed over time between the two groups, neither for COR nor for BE. However, the blood cortisol levels of the CB cows decreased over time, while a T1 peak was identified in the FB group. On the contrary, both the housing systems displayed numerically higher BE at T3 than at the other experimental times. Therefore, the overall data suggest that the compost-bedded pack barn did not significantly affect the studied parameters. Accordingly, cow welfare should be assessed using a wider panel of animal-based indicators.

Effects of Different Fermented Feeds on Production Performance, Cecal Microorganisms, and Intestinal Immunity of Laying Hens.

Simple SummaryFermented feed exerts beneficial effects on intestinal microorganisms, host health, and production performance. However, the effect of fermented feed on laying hens is uncertain due to the different types of inoculated probiotics, fermentation substrates, and fermentation technology. Hence, this experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of fermented feed with different compound strains on the performance and intestinal health of laying hens. Supplement fermented feed reduced the feed conversion ratio and promoted egg quality. Both dietary treatment (fermented feed A produced Bacillus subtilis, Lactobacillus, and Yeast and fermented feed B produced by C. butyricum and L. salivarius) influenced intestinal immunity and regulated cecal microbial structure. This may be because the metabolites of microorganisms in fermented feed and the reduced pH value inhibited the colonization of harmful bacteria, improved the intestinal morphology, and then had a positive impact on the production performance and albumen quality of laying hens.This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of different compound probiotics on the performance, cecal microflora, and intestinal immunity of laying hens. A total of 270 Jing Fen No.6 (22-week-old) were randomly divided into 3 groups: basal diet (CON); basal diet supplemented with 6% fermented feed A by Bacillus subtilis, Lactobacillus, and Yeast (FA); and with 6% fermented feed B by C. butyricum and L. salivarius (FB). Phytic acid, trypsin inhibitor, β-glucan concentrations, and pH value in fermented feed were lower than the CON group (p < 0.05). The feed conversion ratio (FCR) in the experimental groups was decreased, while albumen height and Haugh unit were increased, compared with the CON group (p < 0.05). Fermented feed could upregulate the expression of the signal pathway (TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB) to inhibit mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (p < 0.05). Fermented feed promoted the level of Romboutsia (in the FA group) Butyricicoccus (in the FB group), and other beneficial bacteria, and reduced opportunistic pathogens, such as Enterocooccus (p < 0.05). Spearman’s correlations showed that the above bacteria were closely related to albumen height and intestinal immunity. In summary, fermented feed can decrease the feed conversion ratio, and improve the performance and intestinal immunity of laying hens, which may be related to the improvement of the cecal microflora structure.

Informing the general public on the threat status of the European spiny lobster, Palinurus elephas (Fabricius, 1787) through Citizen-Science and social media platforms. A case study from the Aegean Sea

Research known as Citizen Science (CS) has been recognized as an important tool for both biodiversity restoration and fisheries management projects through active involvement of citizens and therefore for public environmental awareness too. CS projects should be well designed and state clear questions, that will benefit both the research goals and the citizen scientists themselves. In January 2019, the “Red Fish Project” group was created on Facebook consisting of SCUBA divers and fishers and offering the main data source and the relevant digital material. The project’s establishment was based on previous personal experience and following specific protocols. Further information was provided by personal communications. Till October 21st, 2020 the FB group consisted of 464 members who recorded 348 European spiny lobster individuals from all sub-regions of the Aegean Sea. Based on the findings of the present study it seems that most of the citizens were unaware that the species is listed as “Vulnerable” in the IUCN Red List. Lastly, we discuss the important role of the spiny lobster in the country’s culture and that it can be listed as a charismatic, flagship species for citizens to be ocean-literate since it has been shown, that it can raise the interest of recreational divers and increase their awareness.

DNA methylation profile of liver of mice conceived by invitro fertilization.

Offspring generated by invitro fertilization (IVF) are believed to be healthy but display a possible predisposition to chronic diseases, like hypertension and glucose intolerance. Since epigenetic changes are believed to underlie such phenotype, this study aimed at describing global DNA methylation changes in the liver of adult mice generated by natural mating (FB group) or by IVF. Embryos were generated by IVF or natural mating. At 30 weeks of age, mice were sacrificed. The liver was removed, and global DNA methylation was assessed using whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS). Genomic Regions for Enrichment Analysis Tool (GREAT) and G:Profilerβ were used to identify differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and for functional enrichment analysis. Overrepresented gene ontology terms were summarized with REVIGO, while canonical pathways (CPs) were identified with Ingenuity® Pathway Analysis. Overall, 2692 DMRs (4.91%) were different between the groups. The majority of DMRs (84.92%) were hypomethylated in the IVF group. Surprisingly, only 0.16% of CpG islands were differentially methylated and only a few DMRs were located on known gene promoters (n = 283) or enhancers (n = 190). Notably, the long-interspersed element (LINE), short-interspersed element (SINE), and long terminal repeat (LTR1) transposable elements showed reduced methylation (P < 0.05) in IVF livers. Cellular metabolic process, hepatic fibrosis, and insulin receptor signaling were some of the principal biological processes and CPs modified by IVF. In summary, IVF modifies the DNA methylation signature in the adult liver, resulting in hypomethylation of genes involved in metabolism and gene transcription regulation. These findings may shed light on the mechanisms underlying the developmental origin of health and disease.

The Effects of Fluid Balance Disorders on Mortality in Patients Hospitalized for Acute Disease in the Internal Medicine Clinic.

Previous studies conducted on critical patients in intensive care units have shown that fluid balance disorder (FBD) increases mortality. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of FBD on mortality of patients hospitalized in internal medicine ward. The present study was designed as an observational study and follow-up period of the patients began in the first 8 hours of admission to the emergency room who had hypervolemia findings in physical examination were included in the fluid balance FB (+) group; those who had any of the dehydration findings were included in FB (-) group, those who had both hypervolemia and dehydration findings were included in FB (mix) group, and those with normal examination findings were included in FB (N) group. A total of 303 patients, mean age of 66.4 ± 15.9 years, 54.5% male, were included in the study, which covered the period between May 1, 2019 and September 30, 2019. In-hospital, monthly and quarterly cumulative survival rates of the patients were respectively; 91.7 ± 2.7%, 89.2 ± 2.8%, 81.7 ± 3.5% in FB (N) group; 86.3 ± 5.2%, 82.2 ± 5.7%, and 57.8 ± 7.4% in FB (-) group; 70.9 ± 4.4%, 68.1 ±4.4%, and 54.9 ± 4.7% in FB (+) group; 57.6 ± 10.2%, 56.0 ± 9.9%, 44.0 ± 9.9% in FB (mix) group. It was determined that there was an approximately 3-fold increase in both monthly and quarterly mortality risks in those who had FBD compared to those who were not (HR: 3.077 and 3.031, respectively). It was shown with the multivariate Cox regression analyses that this risk increases independently from both preliminary diagnosis, concomitant diseases, vital disorders (30-day and 90-day AHR 2.541 and 2.517, respectively), and from the biochemical disorders (30-day and 90-day AHR 2.132 and 2.124, respectively). Our study is important in terms of emphasizing the value of physical examination which lost its popularity with the development of technology and many medical instruments, but still simple and cheap.

Fibrin Biopolymer Incorporated with Antimicrobial Agents: A Proposal for Coating Denture Bases.

The characteristics of the denture base surface, in combination with the oral environment, promote the colonization and development of Candida albicans biofilm, which is the main cause of denture stomatitis. This study evaluated the effectiveness of fibrin biopolymer with digluconate chlorhexidine or Punica granatum alcoholic extract to prevent C. albicans biofilm. Conventional heat polymerized and pre-polymerized poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) circular specimens (10 × 2 mm) were fabricated (n = 504) and randomly divided into groups: no treatment (control—CT), fibrin biopolymer coating (FB), fibrin biopolymer with P. granatum (FBPg), or digluconate of chlorhexidine (FBCh) coating. The specimens were inoculated with C. albicans SC5314 (1 × 107 cells/mL) and incubated for 24, 48, and 72 h. Crystal violet and colony-forming unit assays were used to quantify the total biofilm biomass and biofilm-living cells. A qualitative analysis was performed using confocal laser scanning microscopy. Data obtained are expressed as means and standard deviations and were statistically analyzed using a three-way analysis of variance (α = 0.05). The FBPg and FBCh groups inhibited the growth of C. albicans biofilm in both PMMA materials analyzed, with FBCh performing better in all periods evaluated (p < 0.0001). The colony forming unit (CFU) assay showed that the FB group favored the C. albicans biofilm growth at 24 h and 48 h (p < 0.0001), with no differences with CT group at 72 h (p = 0.790). All groups showed an enhancement in biofilm development up to 72 h (p < 0.0001), except the FBCh group (p = 0.100). No statistical differences were found between the PMMA base materials (p > 0.050), except in the FB group (p < 0.0001). Fibrin biopolymer, albeit a scaffold for the growth of C. albicans, when combined with chlorhexidine digluconate or P. granatum, demonstrated excellent performance as a drug delivery system, preventing and controlling the formation of denture biofilm.

87842 The Effects of Head Impact Exposure on Changes in Neurocognitive and Oculomotor Function Across a High School American Football Season: A Pilot Study

ABSTRACT IMPACT: This work reveals the influence of a season of American football-related head impact exposure on two functional outcome measures in a cohort of adolescent boys, shedding light on the chronic effects of 'subconcussive head impacts.' OBJECTIVES/GOALS: To examine the influence of a season of exposure to head impacts in American football on changes in neurocognitive and oculomotor function in adolescent male athletes. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: Participants were recruited from a local high school: the football group (FB; n = 26) was instrumented with sensor-installed mouthguards to track impact exposure during games and practices, and members of the men’s cross-country team were recruited to the control group (CON; n = 9). All participants were administered Immediate Post-concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT) and were assessed for near point of convergence (NPC) at pre- and post-season. Linear models will be fit for changes in the five ImPACT composite scores and NPC values, with group and one of the head impact variables as predictors for each model. In a secondary within-group analysis, correlation coefficients will be calculated for the relationships between the head impact variables and the functional change scores for the FB group. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: The two groups did not differ significantly on age or number of previous concussions; the CON group had significantly lower BMI. Group assignment was significantly associated with change in NPC (p &lt; 0.05 for all three models); no significant associations were observed for any of the head impact variables with change in NPC. Group and each of the head impact variables (total impacts, sum of peak linear acceleration [PLA], and sum of peak rotational acceleration [PRA]) were not significantly associated with change in any of the five ImPACT composite scores. Change in visual memory composite score was negatively correlated with total impacts (r = -0.37, p = 0.034) and sum of PRA (r = -0.36, p = 0.040). DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE OF FINDINGS: Significant, albeit relatively weak, correlations between change in visual memory composite score and two head impact kinematic variables, coupled with significant increases in NPC in the FB group compared to the CON group, suggest that a season of exposure to football-related head impacts has the potential to elicit minor functional impairments.

Partial replacement of dietary fish oil by beef tallow does not impair antioxidant capacity and innate immunity of red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii

Beef tallow (BT) has attracted research interests of fish oil (FO) sparing in aquafeed, but total replacement of dietary FO by BT might damage aquatic animal health as a controversial issue for years. This study aimed to investigate the effects of BT partially or completely replacing FO on the health of red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii), especially antioxidant capacity and immune response. Three experimental diets containing FO, BT and a blend of FO and BT (FB, 1:1) as lipid sources, respectively, were formulated to feed crayfish for 8 weeks. The results showed crayfish exhibited no significant differences (p > 0.05) in growth and body proximate composition regardless of dietary lipids. Crayfish fed a BT diet were observed higher contents of haemolymph triglyceride and free fatty acid (FFA) compared with crayfish fed FO (p < 0.05), while FB diet tended to reverse this effect. For hepatopancreas antioxidants, crayfish in the FB group showed higher levels of catalase and glutathione and lower malondialdehyde content than those in the FO group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, BT diet feeding decreased the contents of haemolymph acid phosphatase, lysozyme and total protein compared with FO diet, but FB diet tended to improve these immunological parameters. FB inclusion reversed the BT-induced suppression of nuclear factor kappa beta mRNA expression and enhancement of mitochondrial manganese mRNA expression versus BT, implying ameliorative immunity function. Taken together, total replacement of dietary FO by BT might be detrimental to the health of crayfish, while partial substitution of dietary FO with BT neither suppresses growth nor impairs antioxidant capacity and innate immunity of crayfish.

Chronic Effects of a Training Program Using a Nasal Inspiratory Restriction Device on Elite Cyclists.

This study compared the response of a 9-week cycling training on ventilatory efficiency under two conditions: (i) Combined with respiratory muscle training (RMT) using a new nasal restriction device (FeelBreathe) (FB group) and (ii) without RMT (Control group). Eighteen healthy elite cyclists were randomly separated into the FB group (n = 10) or Control group (n = 8). Gas exchange was measured breath by breath to measure ventilatory efficiency during an incremental test on a cycloergometer before (Pre) and after (Post) the nine weeks of training. The FB group showed higher peak power (Δ (95%HDI) (0.82 W/kg (0.49, 1.17)), VO2max (5.27 mL/kg/min (0.69, 10.83)) and VT1 (29.3 W (1.8, 56.7)) compared to Control at PostFINAL. The FB group showed lower values from Pre to PostPRE in minute ventilation (VE) (−21.0 L/min (−29.7, −11.5)), Breathing frequency (BF) (−5.1 breaths/min (−9.4, −0.9)), carbon dioxide output (VCO2) (−0.5 L/min (−0.7, −0.2)), respiratory equivalents for oxygen (EqO2) (−0.8 L/min (−2.4, 0.8)), heart rate (HR) (−5.9 beats/min (−9.2, −2.5)), respiratory exchange ratio (RER) (−0.1 (−0.1, −0.0) and a higher value in inspiratory time (Tin) (0.05 s (0.00, 0.10)), expiratory time (Tex) (0.11 s (0.05, 0.17)) and end-tidal partial pressure of CO2 (PETCO2) (0.3 mmHg (0.1, 0.6)). In conclusion, RMT using FB seems to be a new and easy alternative ergogenic tool which can be used at the same time as day-to-day training for performance enhancement.

No significant clinical and radiological differences between fixed versus mobile bearing total knee replacement using the same semi-constrained implant type: a randomized controlled trial with mean 10years follow-up.

The aim of this study was to compare the long-term clinical and radiological results between fixed (FB) and mobile bearing (MB) implants with identical design from the same manufacturer. From March 2007 to May 2009, we recruited 160 patients in a prospective, single centered, randomized controlled trial. The authors compared 81 FB total knee arthroplasty (TKA) versus 79MB with medial compartment osteoarthritis. The same posterior stabilized HLS Noetos knee prosthesis (CORIN) was used in all patients. The two groups only differed by the tibial insert (fixed or mobile). The authors compared the postoperative Knee Society Score (KSS), the passive clinical and active radiological knee flexion, the implant survivorship, the complications, and the presence of radiolucent lines. At mean 10.5years' follow-up (range 8-12.1years) no significant differences were found in clinical scores (KSS (p = 0.54), pain score (p = 0.77), stair climbing (p = 0.44), passive maximum flexion (p = 0.5)) or for radiological analyses (maximum active radiological flexion (p = 0.06), presence of progressive radiolucent lines (5 (MB group) versus 6 (FB group); p = 0.75)) between groups. No significant difference was found in overall implant survivorship (82% (MB group) versus 78% (FB group) p = 0.58) or complication rate (p = 0.32) at the last follow-up. No significant clinical and radiological differences were found between fixed and mobile bearing TKA using the same semi-constrained implant type with comparable overall survivorship. The choice between a fixed or mobile bearing implant should be based on surgeon preference and experience with the selected implant. Prospective randomized controlled trial, Level II.

Effect of culture conditions and method of conception on mouse live birth rate

To understand in a mouse model whether there are differences in the decidua and live birth rate after transfer of blastocysts generated by invitro fertilization (IVF) or by superovulation with spontaneous mating into unstimulated recipients. Animal experiment. University-affiliated tertiary hospital. Mice. IVF embryos were generated and cultured in either Whitten medium (WM, suboptimal conditions) and 20% O2 or KSOM medium with amino acids (KAA, optimal conditions) and 5% O2. The control blastocysts from superovulated mice were flushed out of the uterus 3.5 days (E3.5) after mating (FB group). The resulting blastocysts were transferred to nonsuperovulated CF1 recipients mated to vasectomized males. To understand whether anomalies of decidua were present, the expression of genes involved in decidual development and inflammation was analyzed at E7.5 and E18.5. Similarly, immunostaining was used to evaluate whether the pathways involved in activation of mTORC1 (p-S6) and Cox2 signaling (Cox 2 staining) were altered. Live birth rate, gene expression, and immunostaining of decidua. Implantation rates at E7.5 were similar, but invivo embryos (FB groups) were predicted to result in live births 3.3 times higher (2.2-5.1) and 6.6 times higher (4.7-9.3) compared with optimal and suboptimal cultures, respectively. Expression of genes involved in decidual development and inflammation or localization and intensity of staining for p-S6 (mTOR pathway), or inflammation (Cox 2 pathway) were not different among the groups. The predicted live birth rate was decreased in mouse embryos generated by IVF compared with embryos generated by mating, whereas the implantation rate was not different. Suboptimal culture conditions resulted in lower birth rate. We did not find evidence of abnormalities in decidualization that could explain these findings. These data indicate that blastocysts cultured in stressful conditions are less competent, suggesting that decreasing the number of embryonic manipulations may result in higher live birth rates.

Safety evaluation of four faba bean extracts used as dietary supplements in grass carp culture based on hematological indices, hepatopancreatic function and nutritional condition

Faba bean (Vicia faba, FB) is known to improve the texture of fish meat but retards growth possibly by inducing hemolysis, hepatopancreas damage, and metabolic disorder. In this study, we used ultrasonic processing to isolate four FB extracts (water extract, alcohol extract, proteins and residues) and examined their beneficial and detrimental effects. These extracts were separately mixed with commercial feed and fed to grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) using whole FB and commercial feed as controls. After fish were fed one of the six experimental diets for 50 d and 100 d, we evaluated the growth and hematological parameters, activities of metabolic enzymes, hepatopancreatic histology and oxidative response, and lipid metabolism. Results showed that both whole FB and FB residues caused growth retardation and hepatopancreas damage (P < 0.05), whereas growth performance was improved in the FB water and alcohol extract groups compared to the whole FB group. Although the FB water extract negatively affected the number and morphological parameters of red blood cells (P < 0.05), the hematological damage was less pronounced than that of the whole FB group. Excessive hepatopancreatic fat accumulation was found in the whole FB, FB alcohol extract and FB residues groups. Moreover, serious hepatopancreas damages were observed in the FB residues group. These results suggest that the beneficial and detrimental components of FB were successfully separated in the four extracts, and the FB water extract would be the best choice for grass carp culture in terms of growth performance and health. The safety evaluation of the four FB extracts would facilitate further application of FB in aquatic feed.

Effects of a Rehabilitation Programme with a Nasal Inspiratory Restriction Device on Exercise Capacity and Quality of Life in COPD.

Objective: The objective was to assess the effects of a nasal restriction device for inspiratory muscle training, called Feelbreathe®, added to a rehabilitation program (RP) on exercise capacity, quality of life, dyspnea and inspiratory muscle strength in patients with stable COPD. Methods: Patients were randomized into three groups, one performed a supervised RP using the Feelbreathe® device (FB group), the second group developed the same RP with oronasal breathing without FB (ONB group) and the third was the control group (CG). We evaluated inspiratory muscle strength (PImax), dyspnea (mMRC), quality of life (CAT) and exercise capacity (6MWT) before and after 8-week of RP. Results: A total of 16 patients completed the study, seven in FB group, five in ONB group and four in the CG. After the RP, the FB group showed a significant increase in PImax (93.3 ± 19.1 vs. 123.0 ± 15.8 mmHg) and in the 6MWT distance (462.9 ± 71.8 m vs. 529.1 ± 50.1 m) and a decrease in the CAT score (9.7 ± 6.5 vs. 5.9 ± 6.0) and in the mMRC dyspnea score. FB provides greater improvement in PImax, dyspnea, quality of life and 6MWT than ONB. Conclusions: The Feelbreathe® device provides greater improvements in quality of life, dyspnea, exercise capacity and inspiratory muscle strength compared to patients that did not use it.

Histomorphometrical changes in intestine structure and innervation following experimental fumonisins intoxication in male Wistar rats.

Fumonisins are highly toxic metabolites produced by Fusarium proliferatum and Fusarium verticillioides. Little is known about the effects of a chronic low level of fumonisins on intestinal structure and innervation in monogastric animals, even though the intestine is the first organ exposed to fumonisins. The influence of the most prevalent strains of fumonisins, FB1 and FB2, on intestinal and liver morphology, the enteric nervous system and intestinal epithelial cell prolif- eration was investigated in an experimental rat model of fumonisin intoxication. Adolescent (5-weeks-old), male Wistar rats were randomly divided into a control group (C group) not treated with fumonisins or intoxicated with fumonisins (FB group). FB1 together with FB2 were daily administered intragastrically at a dose of 90 mg/kg body weight for 21 days. The damaging effect was assessed by determination of the activity of ALAT and AspAT. Samples from the small intes- tine and liver were taken and blood samples were collected to determine the activity of gamma- -glutamyl transferase (GGT) and amylase. The exposure to FBs resulted in histopathological degenerative alterations in hepatocytes, including mild vacuolar degeneration and ballooning. FB exposure was also toxic in the duodenum and jejunum, where significant changes in morphology, cell proliferation, collagen wall fibres and innervation were observed. Taken together, the results obtained strengthen the hypothesis that chronic exposure to FBs could induce intestinal damage, including damage to the enteric nervous system and may have consequences for general health.

Fruiting Bodies of Chinese Caterpillar Mushroom, Ophiocordyceps sinensis (Ascomycetes) Alleviate Diabetes-Associated Oxidative Stress.

Hyperglycemia-induced complications, the major causes of death in diabetes, are closely related to the elevated oxidative stress. Our previous study indicated that fruiting bodies of Ophiocordyceps sinensis attenuated polydipsia and hyperglycemia in diabetic rats. In this study, we further investigated whether the protective effects of O. sinensis on diabetes are associated with improved oxidative status in the circulation and target organs, the liver and kidneys. Male Wistar rats were fed with a semipurified diet supplemented with fruiting bodies (FB group, 1 g/day), carcass (CC group, 1 g/day), fruiting bodies and carcass (CF group, each 0.5 g/day), or placebo (DM and R groups) for 4 weeks (day 1 to 29). On day 15, animals were injected with nicotinamide (200 mg/kg) and streptozotocin (65 mg/kg) to induce diabetes. After the induction of diabetes, fasting blood glucose (FBG) was increased and the diabetes-increased FBG (day 15 to 26) was alleviated by the supplementation of fruiting bodies (p < 0.05, one-way ANOVA). In addition, the contents of vitamins A and C in the liver were significantly higher in the FB group, and the contents of glutathione in the liver and vitamin A and C in the kidneys were significantly higher in the FB, CC, and CF groups than in the DM group. The diabetes-increased glutathione peroxidase activity in the liver was decreased in the CF group. These results suggest that O. sinensis, especially fruiting bodies, may have antihyperglycemic activity associated with the alleviated oxidative stress in the liver and kidneys.

A randomised preliminary study to compare the performance of fibreoptic bronchoscope and laryngeal mask airway CTrach (LMA CTrach) for visualisation of laryngeal structures at the end of thyroidectomy

Background and Aims:Various methods have been used to check vocal cord movements as a routine before awakening the patient at the end of thyroidectomy to rule out recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy; out of which, fibreoptic-assisted visualisation via laryngeal mask airway (LMA) being the most desirable.Methods:Thirty patients of either sex, aged 18-65 years, American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) grade I/II, scheduled for thyroidectomy under general anaesthesia (GA) were included and were randomised to receive either fibreoptic assisted (FB) or LMA CTrach-assisted (CT) visualisation of laryngeal structures at the end of thyroidectomy. The primary outcome was grade of view of laryngeal structures and secondary outcomes were time taken to achieve optimal view of laryngeal structures, ease of visualisation, hemodynamic parameters, and complications.Results:In the fibreoptic group, we obtained comparable optimal laryngeal view i.e., grade 1 and 2 in all (100%) patients in comparison to 14 (93.33%) in LMA CTrach group. The “time taken to achieve the optimal view” was significantly lower in the CTrach group when compared to Fibreoptic group (220.67 ± 95.98 vis-a-vis 136.67 ± 68.98). The ease of visualisation of laryngeal structures was comparable (P = 0.713) and the baseline haemodynamic parameters were comparable between the 2 groups and at various designated intervals. In total, 6.66% and 26.66% patients in group FB and CT group, respectively, required manoeuvres. However, difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05).Conclusion:Both Fibreoptic-assisted and LMA CTrach-assisted visualization of laryngeal structures in thyroidectomy are equally efficacious in terms of the optimal laryngeal view obtained and ease of visualisation. However, the time taken to achieve optimal laryngeal view was lesser with LMA CTrach.

Fludarabine in Combination with Busulfan As Pretransplant Conditioning for Platelet Gene Therapy in Murine Hemophilia a with Inhibitors

Treatment of hemophilia A (HA) with inhibitors is costly, inconvenient, and incompletely effective. We have demonstrated that syngeneic transplantation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) that are genetically modified to express FVIII in platelets restores hemostasis in HA mice with pre-existing anti-FVIII immunity under total body irradiation (TBI) preconditioning, a proof-of principle that platelet gene therapy could be a promising strategy for HA patients. Currently, Fludarabine along with busulfan (FB) has been shown to be highly effective as a preconditioning regimen for allogeneic HSC transplantation (HSCT) in the clinic. Thus, in this study, we aimed to evaluate if FB works as a clinically translatable preconditioning approach for platelet gene therapy of HA with pre-existing inhibitors. Fludarabine was intraperitoneally administered at 100mg/kg/day on Days -7 through -4, and busulfan was given at 25mg/kg/day on Days -2 and -1 into rhFVIII-primed FVIIInull mice. A TBI regimen of 6.6Gy was used as a parallel control. Platelet FVIII expression was introduced by transplantation of 2bF8 lentivirus (2bF8LV)-transduced HSCs. The peripheral blood recovery was monitored by blood count, and cell subset reconstitution was analyzed by flow cytometry. Animals were further analyzed by quantitative PCR (qPCR), FVIII assays, inhibitor assays, and tail bleeding test. Blood counts demonstrated that platelet numbers and hemoglobin levels in the FB group were similar to those in the TBI group after HSCT. The recovery of leukocytes in the recipients with FB conditioning was greater than that in the animals conditioned with TBI at the early stage (4-12 weeks after HSCT). The engraftments in the two groups were comparable in terms of donor- derived leukocyte chimerism during the study course. The percentage of leukocyte chimerism at each time point in the FB group (ranging from 68.6±12.3% to 83.5±8.5%, n=7) was not statistically significantly different than that in the TBI group (ranging from 66.5±15.8% to 74.5±14.8%, n=5-6). All recipients achieved more than 55% donor-derived leukocytes at 20 weeks after HSCT. When we looked into the cell subsets in the recipients, we found that FB preconditioning is favorable for donor-derived myeloid cell reconstitution (the average engraftment ranging from 81.3-85.4% in the FB group, 52.0-62.3% in the TBI group). qPCR results confirmed that HSCs were genetically modified by 2bF8LV in the recipients with either FB or TBI conditioning. The average copy number of the 2bF8 cassette per cell was 0.93±0.17 (n=7) in the FB group, which was not significantly different compared to the TBI group (0.79±0.11, n=6). The average platelet-FVIII levels at each time point ranged from 3.87-5.98 mU/108 platelets in the FB group and 2.21-10.47 mU/108 platelets in the TBI group, respectively. There was no significant difference between the two groups. To assess whether the bleeding phenotype was rescued in HA mice after receiving 2bF8 LV-transduced HSCs, we used a 6-hour (hr) tail bleeding test. All 2bF8 LV-transduced recipients stopped bleeding within 6 hrs with a remaining hemoglobin level of 62.7±20.6%, which was significantly higher than the FVIIInull control group (37.6±4.5%). Of note, none of the HA control mice stopped bleeding within 6 hrs. Notably, we found that both anti-FVIII inhibitor and total IgG titers declined with time in recipients under either FB or TBI preconditioning. When reduction of the inhibitor titer over time was calculated as a half-life (t1/2), there was no significant difference between the FB group and the TBI group. When the inhibitor titer dropped to undetectable, we further challenged recipients with 50 U/kg rhF8 weekly for 4 weeks. There were no detectable anti-FVIII inhibitors in the 2bF8LV-transduced recipients from either the FB or TBI group. In contrast, all the untransduced transplanted HA control mice produced various levels of inhibitors under the same challenge. These data indicate that 2bF8LV-transduced primed-HA mice under either FB or TBI conditioning may induce immune tolerance. In conclusion, fludarabine along with busulfan preconditioning successfully introduced therapeutic levels of platelet FVIII expression without evoking an anti-FVIII memory response in the transduced recipients with pre-existing immunity. Our data suggest that this approach may be a promising and clinically translatable strategy for gene therapy of hemophilia A. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Impact of Different Doses of Fludarabine in Fludarabine-Based Conditioning Regimen for Unrelated Bone Marrow Transplantation

Background: The purine analog fludarabine (Flu) is recognized as an agent having strong immunosuppressive effects and plays a central role in reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) and myeloablative reduced-toxicity conditioning (RTC) regimens because of limited nonhematologic toxicities. Combinations of Flu and busulfan (Bu) (FB group) or melphalan (Mel) (FM group) are the commonly used as RIC and RTC regimens. Flu inhibits lymphocyte proliferation, induces apoptosis of hematologic malignant cells and has a synergistic tumor-killing effect with alkylating agents such as Bu and Mel. Few reports assess the impact of different dose of Flu on the clinical outcome. In this study, to compare the impact of Flu doses in RIC or RTC, we retrospectively analyzed clinical outcomes in patients who received FB or FM conditioning by using nationwide registration data of Japan Society for Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation. Method: Patients aged 16 years of older with acute myeloid leukemia, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, myelodysplastic syndrome, chronic myeloid leukemia and malignant lymphoma, who received FB or FM conditioning regimen, and who underwent bone marrow transplantation from an unrelated donor between 2007 and 2016 were included in this study. We excluded patients who received oral Bu. Also, patients who had renal dysfunction in Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation-Comorbidity Index was excluded because Flu dose needs an adjustment due to renal function. As a result, 2809 patients were included in this study. All transplantation data in the present study were obtained from the Transplant Registry Unified Management Program (TRUMP), which included clinical data of hematopoietic cell transplantation performed in Japan. Result: In the FB group (n=1647), high-dose Flu (180 mg/m2; HFB) and low-dose Flu (150/125 mg/m2; LFB) were used in 1334 and 313 patients, respectively. The probabilities of 3-year OS and PFS in the HFB group were significantly higher than that in the LFB group (49% vs 38%, P&lt;0.001; 44% vs 35%, P=0.007). The cumulative incidences of relapse at 3 years were 30.4% and 36.6% (P=0.058), and NRM at 3 years were 25.1% and 28.1% (P=0.24) in the HFB and LFB groups, respectively. In multivariate analysis for OS and relapse, Flu doses was identified as an independent prognostic factor (HR 0.82, P=0.03; HR 0.8, P=0.043). In the FM group (n=1162), high-dose Flu (180 mg/m2; HFM) and low-dose Flu (150/125 mg/m2; LFM) were used in 118 and 1044 patients, respectively. There was no significant difference in the OS, relapse and NRM rates between HFM and LFM (at 3 years, 51.4% vs 48.5%, P=0.596; 22.4% vs 27.0%, P=0.362; 30.7% vs 30.3%, P=0.783). Conclusion: In this large study, we suggested that high-dose Flu was associated with favorable outcome in the FB group, but not in the FM group. Prospective studies and further investigations are needed to clarify the benefit of high-dose Flu in the setting of FB regimen. Disclosures Ozawa: Kyowa-Hakko Kirin: Honoraria; Astellas Pharma Inc.: Honoraria; Pfizer Japan Inc.: Honoraria; Novartis: Honoraria. Kanda:Daiichi Sankyo Company: Honoraria; Bristol-Meyers Squib: Honoraria; Celgene: Honoraria; MSD: Honoraria; JCR Pharmaceuticals: Honoraria; Takeda: Honoraria; Otsuka: Honoraria; Kyowa Hakko Kirin: Honoraria; Chugai: Honoraria; Astellas: Honoraria; Novartis: Honoraria; NextGeM Incorporation: Patents &amp; Royalties: 2019-011392. Atsuta:Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd: Honoraria; CHUGAI PHARMACEUTICAL CO., LTD.: Honoraria.

Carry-over assessment of fumonisins and zearalenone to poultry tissues after exposure of chickens to a contaminated diet – A study implementing stable-isotope dilution assay and UHPLC-MS/MS

This study assessed the transfer of fumonisins B1 and B2 (FBs), zearalenone (ZEA) and zearalenone metabolites α-zearalanol (α-ZAL) and α-zearalenol (α-ZEL) to poultry tissues. Two experimental groups of 9 male chickens each were exposed for 8 weeks to a contaminated diet (FB group: 12.7 mg FB1 + FB2 kg−1, ZEA group: 0.40 mg ZEA kg−1). To measure the carry-over from feed to animal tissues (liver and muscle), a sensitive and accurate SIDA-UHPLC-MS/MS method was developed and validated. For all mycotoxins, the limit of detection (LOD) was 0.3 μg kg−1 and the limit of quantification (LOQ) was 1.0 μg kg−1. Recoveries ranged from 92% to 107% and the intermediate precision coefficients of variation (CVIP) were between 4.3% and 13%. ZEA and α-ZAL were not detected in livers, whereas α-ZEL was detected in five out of eight samples at levels between LOD and LOQ. FBs were detected and quantified in the livers of all animals exposed to the contaminated diet (mean 30.3 μg FB1 kg−1 and 2.3 μg FB2 kg−1). A significant correlation between the FB1 and the FB2 contents in the liver was demonstrated and FB carry-over factors (CFs) from feed to liver were determined (CFFB1: 0.003 and CFFB2: 0.001). Filet muscles from the same animals were also analysed. FB1 was quantified at trace levels in eight samples out of nine (mean 2.0 μg kg−1) and was only detected in the remaining sample. FB2 was detected in only one muscle sample.

690-P: Building a Healthy Temple: A Faith-Based Diabetes Self-Management Support Program

Background and Objective: Type 2 diabetes disproportionally affects Hispanics. Diabetes self-management is key to preventing its life threating complications. Most Hispanics affiliate with churches, presenting a promising venue for delivering diabetes self-management support (DSMS) program. “Faith-placed” (FP) programing refers to health intervention implemented in church setting; while "faith-based" (FB) signifies integrating spirituality with health interventions. Building a Healthy Temple DSMS Program integrates spirituality with DSMS to improve diabetic outcomes. Setting and Subjects: Predominantly Hispanic churches in Texas; Diabetic churchgoers. Methods: This 13-week cluster-RCT assigned 18 churches to: 1) FB Group receiving a Health Sermon, 6-session DSMS, and 6-session Healthy Bible Study delivered by trained church lay leaders; or 2) FP Group receiving 6-session DSMS accompanied by a 7-session partial attention control curriculum delivered by outside professionals. Key outcome measures included HbA1c, BMI, waist circumference (WC), DSM Self-efficacy and diabetes quality of life (DQL) using the Problem Areas in Diabetes Scale (PAID). Data are collected at baseline, 6, 9, and 12 months. Intervention effects were determined using Linear mixed-effect models, controlled for age, gender and baseline corresponding outcome measures. Preliminary Results: To date, 3 FP (n=48) and 3 FB churches (n=49) have delivered interventions and collected 9 month data. Post intervention, the FB Group appears to have a lower HbA1c than the FP Group (6.56 vs. 6.79; p=0.095). Single-group sub-analyses showed that only the FB Group sustained a 4% HbA1c reduction at 9 months (p&amp;lt;0.05), and a 16% increase in DSM Self-efficacy scores at 6 and 9 months (p&amp;lt;0.05). Compared to baseline, both groups significantly reduced WC and PAID scores (i.e., improved DQL) at 6 and 9 months. Conclusions: Integrating spirituality with DSMS could lead to improved diabetes outcomes among Hispanic diabetic churchgoers. Disclosure S.R. Wilmoth: None. L. Carrillo: None. M. Pan: None. D. Chavarria: None. B. Wilhite: None. D. Parra-Medina: None. M. He: None. Funding American Diabetes Association (1-17-ICTS-029 to M.H.)