A placebo-controlled trial of a proprietary lipid-lowering nutraceutical supplement in the management of dyslipidemia

There is an ever growing emergence in the popularity of patient-driven care. As this health and wellness model grows, inquiries into diet, lifestyle, and supplemental approaches will continue to become a focal point for the healthcare consumer. Because of this, the aim of this study is to determine the tolerability, and overall effectiveness of a proprietary multi-ingredient lipid-lowering supplement in subjects with dyslipidemia. Forty participants were recruited for a single-center, double-blind randomized, placebocontrolled trial. Study participants were recruited between December 2014 and March 2015. Initial screening included a physical examination, renal and hepatic function, serum lipid, serum electrolytes, complete blood counts, and urine analysis. The 40 participants were randomly assigned to receive either the proprietary multi-ingredient lipid-lowering supplement (PMILLS) n= 20 or placebo n= 20. The trial consisted of a screening visit, a two-week run-in, and a four-month treatment period. Samples were taken at baseline, one month and four months of treatment. Results from the trial showed that the PMILLS significantly reduced total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein (LDL-C), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL-C), oxidized LDL (oxLDL), Apo-lipoprotein B, triglycerides (TG), LDL particle number (LDL-P), heart rate, and diastolic blood pressure compared to placebo at one month and four months. The PMILLS significantly increased high density lipoprotein (HDL) particle number (HDL-P), and low density lipoprotein (LDL) particle size from dense type III and IV to larger type I and II LDL particle, compared to placebo at one month and four months. In addition, the PMILLS significantly reduced high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), tumor necrosis alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) within the treatment group from baseline. There were no adverse effects noted in the treatment group after four months of supplementation. The present study demonstrates this PMILLS improves all relevant lipid parameters, such as particle numbers and particles sizes, as well as showing a significant reduction in inflammatory markers linked to cardiovascular health. With such combined changes in lipids, lipid sub-fractions, and inflammation, which are considered among the most effective means of reducing coronary heart disease (CHD), this PMILLS represents a new addition to safe and effective lipid-modifying strategies.

Effect of polychlorinated biphenyls on osmoregulatory response and apoptosis in GIFT tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus

In the present study, GIFT tilapia Oreochromis niloticus were exposed to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) for 7, 14, and 21 days. Over the duration of the exposure, genotoxicity and the activity of Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase (NKA) and Ca⁺/Mg⁺-ATPase (CMA) were measured in the gill, kidney, and intestine, to evaluate changes in osmoregulatory response in O. niloticus. Our results showed significant decreases in organic NKA (except in gill tissues after 0.5 mg/L PCB-exposure) and CMA activity. The results of the genotoxicity assay showed significant increases in atp1a1a, nkcc2 (only in gill tissue), and fxyd7 (except after 21 days of 5 mg/L PCB exposure). We found significant increases in caspase proteins in the liver in the 5-mg/L PCB exposure group, and the transcripts showed dose-dependent increases between treatment groups over the exposure duration. This study presents evidence that chronic exposure to PCB could result in organic osmoregulatory response and hepatic apoptosis in GIFT tilapia.

Evaluation of insertion-deletion markers suitable for genetic diversity studies and marker-trait correlation analyses in cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

Peanut is one of the most important oil crops worldwide. We used insertion-deletion (InDel) markers to assess the genetic diversity and population structure in cultivated peanut. Fifty-four accessions from North China were genotyped using 48 InDel markers. The markers amplified 61 polymorphic loci with 1 to 8 alleles and an average of 2.6 alleles per marker. The polymorphism information content values ranged from 0.0364 to 0.9030, with an average of 0.5038. Population structure and neighbor-joining (NJ) tree analyses suggested that all accessions could be divided into four clusters (A1-A4), using the NJ method. Likewise, four subpopulations (G1-G4) were identified using STRUCTURE analysis. A principal component analysis was also used and results concordant with the other analysis methods were found. A multi-linear stepwise regression analysis revealed that 13 InDel markers correlated with five measured agronomical traits. Our results will provide important information for future peanut molecular breeding and genetic research.

Structure-based model profiles affinity constant of drugs with hPEPT1 for rapid virtual screening of hPEPT1's substrate

The human proton-coupled peptide transporter (hPEPT1) with broad substrates is an important route for improving the pharmacokinetic performance of drugs. Thus, it is essential to predict the affinity constant between drug molecule and hPEPT1 for rapid virtual screening of hPEPT1's substrate during lead optimization, candidate selection and hPEPT1 prodrug design. Here, a structure-based in silico model for 114 compounds was constructed based on eight structural parameters. This model was built by the multiple linear regression method and satisfied all the prerequisites of the regression models. For the entire data set, the r(2) and adjusted r(2) values were 0.74 and 0.72, respectively. Then, this model was used to perform substrate/non-substrate classification. For 29 drugs from DrugBank database, all were correctly classified as substrates of hPEPT1. This model was also used to perform substrate/non-substrate classification for 18 drugs and their prodrugs; this QSAR model also can distinguish between the substrate and non-substrate. In conclusion, the QSAR model in this paper was validated by a large external data set, and all results indicated that the developed model was robust, stable, and can be used for rapid virtual screening of hPEPT1's substrate in the early stage of drug discovery.

Metabonomic profiles reveal dose-dependent effects of Bu-Shen-Gu-Chi-Wan on the serum in experimental periodontitis of rat model

ETHNO-PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Bu-Shen-Gu-Chi-Wan is a Chinese patent medicine for the treatment of chronic periodontitis. It has an anti-inflammatory function in experimental periodontitis and can improve alveolar bone remodeling.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aims to explore the effects of Bu-Shen-Gu-Chi-Wan on serum metabolism in a rat model of periodontitis using ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR) based metabonomics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The model of experimental periodontitis in a rat was established by steel wire ligation, plus a high glucose diet and Porphyromonas gingivalis inoculation. When the models had been established, 6-week-old Sprague-Dawley female rats (n=31) were divided into 5 groups: high dose group (Group H), medium dose group (Group M), low dose group (Group L), periodontitis group (Group P) and healthy control group (Group N). Rats in Group H, M and L were given the Bu-Shen-Gu-Chi-Wan solution (0.8, 2 and 4g/kg of body weight) daily for 60 days. Rats in Group P and N were administered normal saline (10ml/kg of body weight) in the same period. All rats were sacrificed at the end of the study and serum samples were collected. The metabolites in the serum were analyzed using ¹H NMR in conjunction with principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA).

RESULTS

The metabonomic profiles of five groups showed the clustering of individual dataset in every group, and the 1st principal component and the 2nd principal component could significantly differentiate the datasets of medium dose or high dose group from other groups. The chemical shift regions at δ 1.22ppm, 1.86ppm, 2.26ppm, 2.34ppm and 2.42ppm showed the most obvious differences among the five groups. The correspondent metabolites were high density lipoprotein, pyruvate/oxaloacetate, arginine and glutamine.

CONCLUSION

The effects of Bu-Shen-Gu-Chi-Wan on the rat serum metabolites were dose dependent. High density lipoprotein, pyruvate/oxaloacetate, arginine and glutamine may be the serum biomarkers of Bu-Shen-Gu-Chi-Wan.

[A comparison of the outcome of therapy between fractional flow reserve guided- versus coronary angiography guided-strategy in acute coronary syndrome patients with moderate coronary lesions]

OBJECTIVE

To compare the outcomes between coronary angiography (CAG ) guided- and fractional flow reserve (FFR) guided-strategy in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients with moderate lesions.

METHODS

Totally, 249 ACS subjects with moderate lesions examined by CAG in Beijing Anzhen Hospital from July 1, 2014 to July 30, 2015 were included in the present analysis. Among them, 98 patients were further examined by FFR and 151 were not. All the patients were treated with medication either guided by CAG or by FFR. Subjects were followed up for an average of 10 months. The end points included death, nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI), target vessel revascularization (TVR), and hospitalization costs. Major adverse cardiac events (MACE) were defined as death, nonfatal MI, and TVR.

RESULTS

At the end of follow-up, 29 patients had MACE with 6 cases (6.5%) in the FFR-guided group, and 23 cases (16.2%) in the CAG-guided group (P=0.036). Patients treated with FFR-guided strategy had significantly lower rate of TVR than those treated with CAG-guided strategy (5.4% vs 14.8%, P=0.045). No statistical difference was observed in nonfatal MI (2.2% vs 3.5%, P=0.242) between the two groups, and no cardiac death occurred in the two groups. However, the rate of patients treated with stains (P=0.033) and the hospitalization costs (P=0.001) were significantly increased in the FFR-guided group.

CONCLUSIONS

FFR-guided strategy for patients with ACS results in lower TVR and MACE, but higher cost when compared with CAG-guided strategy.

Fracture risk and bone mineral density levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Previous studies suggested possible bone loss and fracture risk in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the strength of the relationship of SLE with fracture risk and the mean difference of bone mineral density (BMD) levels between SLE patients and controls. Literature search was undertaken in multiple indexing databases on September 26, 2015. Studies on the relationship of SLE with fracture risk and the mean difference of BMD levels between SLE patients and controls were included. Data were combined using standard methods of meta-analysis. Twenty-one studies were finally included into the meta-analysis, including 15 studies on the mean difference of BMD levels between SLE patients and controls, and 6 studies were on fracture risk associated with SLE. The meta-analysis showed that SLE patients had significantly lower BMD levels than controls in the whole body (weighted mean difference [WMD] = -0.04; 95 % CI -0.06 to -0.02; P < 0.001), femoral neck (WMD = -0.06; 95 % CI -0.07 to -0.04; P < 0.001), lumbar spine (WMD = -0.06; 95 % CI -0.09 to -0.03; P < 0.001), and total hip (WMD = -0.05; 95 % CI -0.06 to -0.03; P < 0.001). In addition, the meta-analysis also showed that SLE was significantly associated with increased fracture risk of all sites (relative risk [RR] = 1.97, 95 % CI 1.20-3.25; P = 0.008). Subgroup analysis by adjustment showed that SLE was significantly associated with increased fracture risk of all sites before and after adjusting for confounding factors (unadjusted RR = 2.07, 95 % CI 1.46-2.94, P < 0.001; adjusted RR = 1.22, 95 % CI 1.05-1.42, P = 0.01). Subgroup analysis by types of fracture showed that SLE was significantly associated with increased risks of hip fracture (RR = 1.99, 95 % CI 1.55-2.57; P < 0.001), osteoporotic fracture (RR = 1.36, 95 % CI 1.21-1.53; P < 0.001), and vertebral fracture (RR = 2.97, 95 % CI 1.71-5.16; P < 0.001). This systematic review and meta-analysis provides strong evidence for the relationship of SLE with bone loss and fracture risk.

c-Met and CREB1 are involved in miR-433-mediated inhibition of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in bladder cancer by regulating Akt/GSK-3β/Snail signaling

Emerging evidence has suggested that microRNAs (miRNAs) have an important role in tumor development and progression by regulating diverse cellular pathways. Here we describe the function and regulation network of miR-433 in bladder cancer (BCa). miR-433 is frequently downregulated in BCa tissues compared with adjacent non-cancerous tissues. Epigenetic mechanisms may be involved in the regulation of miR-433 expression. Enforced expression of miR-433 significantly inhibits proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion in BCa cells. In addition, miR-433 inhibits the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in BCa cells by regulating c-Met/Akt/GSK-3β/Snail signaling pathway. Both c-Met and CREB1 are downstream target genes of miR-433. CREB1 can also indirectly regulate c-Met/Akt/GSK-3β/Snail signaling via MITF. Furthermore, CREB1 expression is an independent prognostic factor for overall survival in patients with BCa. Finally, there appears to exist a reciprocal regulation between c-Met and miR-433/miR-409-3p. Taken together, this study reveals that miR-433-c-MET/CREB1-Akt/GSK-3β/Snail signaling is critical to EMT in BCa. Targeting the pathway described here may open up new prospects to restrict metastatic progression of BCa.

Ultrasound of the Hypoglossal Nerve in the Neck: Visualization and Initial Clinical Experience with Patients

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The hypoglossal nerve, providing motor innervation for the tongue, can be affected in many diseases of the neck and skull base, leading to dysarthria, dysphagia, and ultimately atrophy of the tongue. We determined the feasibility of direct visualization of the hypoglossal nerve in the neck with ultrasound, testing this technique on healthy volunteers and evaluating it in clinical practice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study consisted of 4 parts: first, ultrasound-guided perineural ink injections along the course of the hypoglossal nerve at 24 sides of 12 fresh, nonembalmed cadaver necks. Subsequently, the specimens were dissected to confirm the correct identification of the nerve. The second part was examination of healthy volunteers with ultrasound and measurement of cross-sectional areas for generating reference data. The third part was scanning of healthy volunteers by 2 resident physicians with little and intermediate experience in ultrasound. Fourth was examination with ultrasound of patients with motor symptoms of the tongue.

RESULTS

The hypoglossal nerve was correctly identified bilaterally in all cadaveric specimens (24/24) and all volunteers (33/33). The cross-sectional area ranged from 1.9 to 2.1 mm(2). The resident physicians were able to locate the nerve in 19 of 22 cases, demonstrating that locating the nerve is reproducible and feasible even with intermediate experience in ultrasound. Finally, alterations of the hypoglossal nerve in disease states could be depicted.

CONCLUSIONS

Direct, reliable, and reproducible visualization of the extracranial hypoglossal nerve with ultrasound is feasible.

Wetting behavior of water on silicon carbide polar surfaces

Technically important wide band-gap semiconductors such as GaN, AlN, ZnO and SiC are crystallized in polar structures.

Development of cross-priming amplification assays for rapid and sensitive detection of Aeromonas hydrophila

Aeromonas hydrophila has been increasingly implicated as the aetiologic agent of various human diseases. Therefore, reliable laboratory detection and identification of this bacterium has become clinically and epidemiologically desirable. We developed a nearly instrument-free, simple molecular method for rapid detection of Aer. hydrophila using a cross-priming amplification (CPA) assay with the desA gene as the target. The desA gene is crucial for the survival and growth of Aer. hydrophila under iron starvation. The results can be visualized as colour changes without opening the reaction tubes. No false-positive results were observed for the 33 non-Aer. hydrophila strains tested to evaluate assay specificity. The limit of detection for Aer. hydrophila was approximately 200 copies of desA per reaction (on reference plasmids) and 5 × 10(3)  CFU g(-1) Aer. hydrophila in simulated human stool, which is the same sensitivity as a qPCR assay. The performance of the CPA assay was also evaluated with 100 stool specimens from diarrhoea patients and 40 environmental water samples. In conclusion, the simplicity, cost-effectiveness and nearly instrument-free platform of the CPA assay make it practical for use in primary care facilities and smaller clinical laboratories.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Aeromonas hydrophila is a human pathogen that infects via exposed wounds or ingestion of contaminated water and food. In this study, a CPA-based PCR method was developed for specific, rapid, cost-effective detection of Aer. hydrophila, and the test results could be visualized without opening the reaction tubes. This is the first report on the application of the CPA method for the detection of Aer. hydrophila. This novel method could be practical for use in primary care facilities and smaller clinical laboratories.

BET Inhibitor JQ1 Blocks Inflammation and Bone Destruction

BET proteins are a group of epigenetic regulators controlling transcription through reading acetylated histone tails and recruiting transcription complexes. They are considered as potential therapeutic targets in many distinct diseases. A novel synthetic bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) inhibitor, JQ1, was proved to suppress oncogene transcription and inflammatory responses. The present study was aimed to investigate the effects of JQ1 on inflammatory response and bone destruction in experimental periodontitis. We found that JQ1 significantly suppressed lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated inflammatory cytokine transcription, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), as well as receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclast markers, such as c-Fos, nuclear factor of activated T-cells, cytoplasmic, calcineurin-dependent 1 (NFATc1), tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) and cathepsin K in vitro. JQ1 also inhibited toll-like receptors 2/4 (TLR2/4) expression and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) phosphorylation and nuclear translocation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (ChIP-qPCR) revealed that JQ1 neutralized BRD4 enrichment at several gene promoter regions, including NF-κB, TNF-α, c-Fos, and NFATc1. In a murine periodontitis model, systemic administration of JQ1 significantly inhibited inflammatory cytokine expression in diseased gingival tissues. Alveolar bone loss was alleviated in JQ1-treated mice because of reduced osteoclasts in periodontal tissues. These unprecedented results suggest the BET inhibitor JQ1 as a prospective new approach for treating periodontitis.

Downregulation of microRNA-126 in endothelial progenitor cells from diabetes patients, impairs their functional properties, via target gene Spred-1

Diabetes mellitus (DM) adversely affects the number and function of circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). Consequently, there is also a reduction in the repair mechanism of these cells, which is a critical and initiating factor in the development of diabetic vascular disease. The aim of the present study was to analyze miR expression profiles in EPCs from patients with DM and choose the most significantly regulated miR to study its possible role on EPC dysfunction and elucidate its mechanism of action. EPCs were collected from subjects with Type II DM and non-diabetic control subjects. Total RNA was harvested from EPCs, and a total of 5 candidate miRNAs were identified by microarray screening and were quantified by TaqMan real-time PCR. Lentiviral vectors expressing miR-126 and miR-126 inhibitor (anti-miR-126) were transfected into EPCs, and the EPC colony-forming capacity, proliferation activity, migratory activity, differentiation capacity, and apoptotic susceptibility were determined and Western Blotting and mRNA real-time PCR analyses were performed. To study the mechanisms, lentiviral vectors expressing Spred-1 and a short interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting Spred-1 were prepared. Five miRs were aberrantly downregulated in EPCs from DM patients. These miRs included miR-126, miR-21, miR-27a, miR-27b and miR-130a. Anti-miR-126 inhibited EPC proliferation, migration, and enhanced apoptosis. Restored miR-126 expression in EPCs from DM promoted EPC proliferation, migration, and inhibited EPC apoptosis ability. Despite this, miR-126 had no effect on EPC differentiation. miR-126 overexpression significantly downregulated Spred-1 in EPCs. The knockdown of Spred-1 expression in EPCs from DM promoted proliferation, migration, and inhibited apoptosis of the cells. The signal pathway of miR-126 effecting on EPCs is partially mediated through Ras/ERK/VEGF and PI3K/Akt/eNOS regulation. This study provides the first evidence that miR-126 is downregulated in EPCs from diabetic patients, and impairs EPCs-mediated function via its target, Spred-1, and through Ras/ERK/VEGF and PI3K/Akt/eNOS signal pathway.

Impact of obstructive sleep apnoea on clinical characteristics and outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndrome following percutaneous coronary intervention

This study tested whether obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) influenced clinical characteristics and outcomes after successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in 123 consecutive patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Patients with an apnoea-hypopnea index (AHI) >or= 5 were considered as having OSAS. Carotid ultrasonography and echocardiography were performed, and C-reactive protein (CRP) and fibrinogen were measured. Co-existence of ACS and OSAS occurred in 76 patients (61.8%) and patients with OSAS had a greater interventricular septum thickness (IVST) and higher levels of CRP than non-OSAS patients. In an elderly subpopulation (>or= 75 years of age), two-vessel disease was significantly more common and fibrinogen levels were significantly higher in OSAS than non-OSAS patients. Carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) correlated with the AHI in ACS patients. In elderly ACS patients, IMT, Gensini score and fibrinogen correlated with AHI. Patients were followed up for 1 year for major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) and no significant difference in major MACEs was found after this period between OASAS and non-OSAS patients. This study indicates that OSAS is associated with inflammation and increased IVST in ACS patients after successful PCI and, in elderly ACS patients, also with CAD severity and enhanced blood coagulability.

Evidence of spin glass dynamics in dilute LiHoxY1-xF4

ac susceptibility measurements are presented on the dilute, dipolar coupled, Ising magnet LiHoxY1-xF4 for a concentration x=0.045. The frequency and temperature dependences of the susceptibility show characteristic glassy relaxation. The absorption spectrum is found to broaden with decreasing temperature suggesting that the material is behaving as a spin glass and not as an exotic spin liquid as was previously observed. A dynamical scaling analysis suggests a spin glass transition temperature of 43+/-2 mK with an exponent znu=7.8+/-0.2.

Methods for isolating circulating epithelial cells and criteria for their classification as carcinoma cells

Novel assay methods developed for the isolation and characterization of circulating tumor cells (CTC) of epithelial origin offer the potential of markers for the non-invasive gathering of clinical information relevant to the diagnosis, evolution and treatment of carcinoma. Of the numerous techniques currently used to analyze CTC, slide-based assays are perhaps the most common. While traditional combined immunocytochemical/brightfield microscopy systems continue to be the most frequently employed, fluorescence-based analysis is gaining in importance. This is partly because fluorescence microscopy analysis of slide-mounted CTC can provide simultaneously cytogenetic as well as morphologic and multiple phenotypic information. In particular, fluorescence microscopy analysis of slide-mounted CTC can accurately determine genetic changes at the chromosomal level in patients with recurrent disease. More importantly, by identifying genetic aberrations in CTC, it becomes possible to choose those patients most likely to benefit from a given treatment. The potential of this technique has already been demonstrated by employing fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) methods to measure expression of the HER2/neu gene in tissue from patients with breast carcinoma for the specific purpose of identifying those patients most likely to respond to Trastuzumab targeted therapy. Here, we review the major methodologies used in the preparation and analysis of the slide-based assays.

Cerebral blood flow response to a hypoxic-ischemic insult differs in neonatal and juvenile rats

To compare the cerebral blood flow (CBF) response to a transient episode of hypoxia-ischemia producing damage in neonatal and juvenile rats. One- and four-week-old rats were subjected to unilateral carotid artery occlusion plus hypoxia (8% oxygen). Perfusion MR images were acquired either in sham controls or in hypoxic-ischemic rats before, during, 1 h and 24 h after hypoxia-ischemia. At 24 h post hypoxia-ischemia, T2 maps and histology were used to assess damage. In sham controls, CBF increased twofold between the age of one and four weeks. Reductions in CBF ipsilateral to the occlusion occurred during hypoxia-ischemia followed by a substantial recovery at 1 h post in both age groups. However, contralaterally, hyperemia occurred during hypoxia-ischemia in four-week but not one-week-old rats. Similarly, hyperemia occurred ipsilaterally at 24 h post hypoxia-ischemia in four-week but not one-week-olds, corresponding to the distribution of elevations in T2. Despite CBF differences, extensive cell death occurred ipsilaterally in both age groups. The CBF responses to hypoxia-ischemia and reperfusion differ depending on postnatal age, with hyperemia occurring in juvenile but not neonatal rats. The results suggest a greater CBF responsiveness and differential relationship between post-ischemic vascular perfusion and tissue injury in older compared with immature animals.

Morphologie und funktionelle Anatomie des wachsenden Thorax

Morphogenesis of most thoracic organs and structures is not finished with birth but perpetuates in postnatal life. The postnatal growth is partly associated with enormous changes in structure, morphology, and function. Our study presents an overview of morphological, topological and functional peculiarities of thoracic anatomy during infancy, childhood and adolescence. It focuses on the development of the mammary gland, osseous structures of the chest wall, thymus, heart, and lungs. Most of the presented data are based on post-mortem studies. Measurements and numerical data are mainly included for illustration of growth-associated changes.

Renal and vascular oxidative stress and salt-sensitivity of arterial pressure

Oxidative stress occurs in a tissue or in the whole body when the total oxidant production exceeds the antioxidant capacity. Recent studies in human essential hypertension indicate that free radical production is increased and antioxidant levels are decreased, and more than one-half of these hypertensives have a salt-sensitive type of hypertension with progressive renal damage. Increased oxidative stress may also play a critical role in animal models of salt-sensitive hypertension. The stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSP) exhibits salt-sensitivity, vascular release of superoxide is increased, and total plasma antioxidant capacity is decreased. The superoxide release in the SHRSP rats inactivates nitric oxide, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) administration returns the bioactive nitric oxide levels to normal. The deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt hypertensive rat is salt-sensitive, aortic superoxide production is increased, and renal inflammation is significant. Treatment of the DOCA-salt rats with apocynin, an NADPH oxidase inhibitor, decreased aortic superoxide production and decreased arterial pressure. The Dahl salt-sensitive (S) rat has increased mesenteric microvascular and renal superoxide production and increased plasma levels of H2O2. The renal protein expression of SOD is decreased in the kidney of Dahl S rats, and long-term administration of Tempol, a superoxide mimetic, significantly decreased arterial pressure and renal damage. In conclusion, both human hypertension and experimental models of salt-sensitive hypertension have increased superoxide release, decreased antioxidant capacity and elevated renal damage.

American ginseng transcriptionally activates p21 mRNA in breast cancer cell lines

American ginseng (AG) has been demonstrated to inhibit breast cancer cell growth in vitro. p21 protein, a universal cell cycle inhibitor, binds cyclin-CDK complexes, an important mechanism in cell cycle regulation. The purpose of this investigation was to determine if AG induces p21 gene expression in hormone sensitive (MCF-7) and insensitive (MDA-MB-231) breast cancer cell lines. Cells grown in steroid stripped medium (SSM) were treated with AG, 17-beta-estradiol (E2), genistein or cycloheximide (CHX). Northern blot analyses were performed using human p21Cip1 and 36B4 cDNA probes. Cell lines were transiently transfected with select mouse p21 CAT reporter constructs, including those lacking a p53 binding site. Cell cycle analyses was performed by FACScan. The results revealed that AG induced p21 mRNA expression in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells (p=0.0004; p < or =0.0001, respectively). Neither E2 nor genistein alter p21 mRNA expression. CHX, a protein synthesis inhibitor, did not block p21 mRNA expression induced by AG, indicating that p21 is induced as an immediate early gene. AG activated p21 reporter constructs in transfected cells, independent of p53 binding sites. The cell cycle proliferative phase was significantly decreased by AG and increased by E2 (p < or =0.0001). AG may inhibit breast cancer cell growth by transcriptional activation of the p21 gene, independent of p53.

[Establishment of detection test for hepatitis C virus antigen]

OBJECTIVE

To establish the enzyme linking immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test with the specific monoclonal antibody (McAb) for detecting the hepatitis C virus (HCV) antigen so as to study the possibility of HCV antigen detection from plasma and serum samples.

METHODS

Among the McAbs against HCV core and NS3 region, several kinds of combination models were analyzed to choose the optimal one. 348 samples from volunteer donors were tested by this test to calculate the cutoff value. 371 samples, among which 146 samples were positive to anti-HCV and 225 ones were negative to anti-HCV, were screened. The antigen positive samples were confirmed by HCV nested PCR.

RESULTS

The model of detection test was constructed with the C39,C7-6 as capture McAb and C39,C7-57 as HRP Conjugated McAb. This test could detect the C7 antigen to 5 ng/ml, and its cutoff value was determined as the average value of negative control by adding 0.25. Eleven of 146 samples positive to anti-HCV and 16 of 225 ones negative to anti-HCV were positive to HCV antigen. Among these 27 antigen positive samples, there were 23 positive to HCV RNA by PCR detection.

CONCLUSIONS

With this HCV antigen detection test, some of samples positive to HCV antigen can be found from plasma positive to and negative to anti-HCV and be confirmed by PCR. It is shown that it is possible to detect HCV antigen directly from plasma samples and it is important for HCV basic research and for control of transmission of HCV.

Role of abnormal nitric oxide systems in salt-sensitive hypertension

A large percentage of human hypertensive patients are salt sensitive, referring to the dependence of hypertension on sodium intake, but the cause of the salt sensitivity is not known. Although several mechanisms may contribute to salt-sensitive hypertension, the nitric oxide (NO) system appears to play a major role. Studies in humans and Dahl salt-sensitive (S) rats indicate that NO production is decreased during hypertension. Intravenous L-arginine infusion in Dahl S rats increases NO production and prevents salt-sensitive hypertension. In the Dahl salt-resistant (R) rat, NO production by both inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and neuronal NOS (nNOS) help to prevent salt-sensitive hypertension. Experimental evidence is summarized, indicating that the Dahl S rat has a deficient production of NO by nNOS, although NO production by iNOS appears to moderately decrease salt sensitivity. Other evidence about the importance of NO in salt-sensitive hypertension is reviewed, including the role of the renal NO system.

Transient vs. prolonged histone hyperacetylation: effects on colon cancer cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis

The role of histone hyperacetylation in regard to growth, differentiation, and apoptosis in colon cancer cells was assessed in an in vitro model system. HT-29 cells were grown in +/-10% fetal bovine serum with either 5 mM sodium butyrate or 0.3 microM trichostatin A [single dose (T) or 3 doses 8 h apart (TR)] for 24 h. Serum-starved HT-29 cells were further treated with epidermal growth factor or insulin-like growth factor I for an additional 24 h. Apoptosis was quantified with propidium iodide and characterized by electron microscopy. Northern blot analyses were performed with cDNA probes specific for intestinal alkaline phosphatase, Na-K-2Cl cotransporter, the cell cycle inhibitor p21, and the actin control. Flow cytometric analysis revealed a time-dependent growth suppression along with early induction of p21 mRNA in the butyrate, T, and TR groups. Histone hyperacetylation, assessed by acid-urea-triton gel electrophoresis, was transient in the T group but persisted for up to 24 h in the butyrate and TR groups. Induction of apoptosis, growth factor unresponsiveness, and differentiation occurred in the butyrate- and TR-treated cells but not those treated with a single dose of trichostatin A. Thus transient hyperacetylation of histones is sufficient to induce p21 expression and produce cellular growth arrest, but prolonged histone hyperacetylation is required for induction of the programs of differentiation, apoptosis, and growth factor unresponsiveness.

Thyroid hormone and the d-type cyclins interact in regulating enterocyte gene transcription

Thyroid hormone (T3) is an important regulator of gut mucosal development and differentiation, inducing intestinal alkaline phosphatase (IAP) and repressing lactase gene transcription. In contrast, cyclin D1 (CD1) appears to be a growth promoter in the gut, functioning to maintain the undifferentiated state. The present studies were designed to examine the effects of CD1 on T3 action within intestinal epithelia. Caco-2 cells were maintained in hypothyroid medium and transiently transfected with either rat lactase (3.0 kb) or human IAP (2.4 kb) luciferase (Luc) reporter plasmids. Cotransfections were carried out using two T3 receptor (TR) isoforms, TR"-1 and TR$-1, as well as plasmids expressing CD1, CD3, CA, or CB1. Cells were then treated +/- 10 nmol/L T3 for 24 hours and luciferase activity was determined. With T3 treatment, IAP-Luc activity was induced (TR"-1 = eightfold, TR$-1 = ninefold), but these effects were dramatically inhibited (> 50%) by CD1 and CD3. In contrast, CA and CB1 did not alter T3-mediated IAP gene activation. The ability of CD1 and CD3 to inhibit T3 action was also tested in the context of the lactase gene, which is negatively regulated by T3. As expected, lactase reporter gene activity was repressed by T3 treatment in the case of both receptor isoforms, TR"-1 = 30% and TR$-1 = 40%. In contrast to its effects on the IAP gene, CD1 did not inhibit T3-mediated changes in lactase reporter gene activity. The D-type cyclins (CD1 and CD3), but not CA or CB1, specifically inhibit T3-mediated activation of the IAP gene. In contrast, the D-type cyclins do not inhibit T3-mediated repression of the lactase gene. These studies have identified a novel molecular interaction that exists between the pathways of growth and differentiation within intestinal epithelia.

Management of tongue cancer in the patient who is systemically immunosuppressed: a preliminary report

OBJECTIVE

Renal transplantation is being improved, and life expectancy for patients with transplanted kidneys is being prolonged, but the incidence of malignant tumors in other body organs or tissues is increasing progressively. We investigated effective clinical plans for treating lingual cancer in persons who are long-term renal transplant recipients.

STUDY DESIGN

The group included 3 cases of lingual cancer after renal transplantation. All were men. The mean age was 47.5 years (range, 40 to 55). The lingual cancer occurred a mean of 9 years after renal transplantation. The lesions of two patients were in the left lingual margins; the other patient had multiple bilateral lesions. All diagnoses were confirmed microscopically to be squamous cell carcinomas stage I to II.

RESULTS

The doses of immunosuppressive agents were decreased, and two patients accepted surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. The third patient died 1 year after the cancer was diagnosed because of metastases. The other 2 patients had regular follow-up for 2 to 3 years and did not have either local recurrence or metastasis.

CONCLUSION

Patients who have lingual cancer develop after renal transplantation have received long-term immunosuppressive therapy. We suggest the following clinical protocol: (1) Besides regular evaluation after renal transplantation, physical examination and biopsy of suspicious oral lesions are necessary because of the possibility of postrenal malignancy. (2) Surgery, along with chemotherapy and radiotherapy, is the main treatment of lingual cancer after renal transplantation. (3) The lingual tumor should be comprehensively treated despite the poor immune state of the body, or tumor recurrence can accelerate and metastases can occur. (4) Treating cancer thoroughly and maintaining the function of the transplanted kidney can decrease the patient's immune status. We should continue to observe and to report the patients' protocol, even if the patients' clinical follow-up periods are limited.

Mechanisms of salt-sensitive hypertension: role of inducible nitric oxide synthase

The goal of this study was to determine the role of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in the arterial pressure, renal hemodynamic, renal excretory, and hormonal changes that occur in Dahl/Rapp salt-resistant (R) and salt-sensitive (S) rats during changes in Na intake. Thirty-two R and S rats, equipped with indwelling arterial and venous catheters, were subjected to low (0.87 mmol/day) or high (20.6 mmol/day) Na intake, and selective iNOS inhibition was achieved with intravenous aminoguanidine (AG, 12.3 mg. kg(-1). h(-1)). After 5 days of AG, mean arterial pressure increased to 121 +/- 3% control in the R-high Na AG rats compared with 98 +/- 1% control (P < 0.05) in the R-high Na alone rats, and S-high Na rats increased their arterial pressure to 123 +/- 3% control compared with 110 +/- 2% control (P < 0.05) in S-high Na alone rats. AG caused no significant changes in renal hemodynamics, urinary Na or H(2)O excretion, plasma renin activity, or cerebellar Ca-dependent NOS activity. The data suggest that nitric oxide produced by iNOS normally helps to prevent salt-sensitive hypertension in the Dahl R rat and decreases salt sensitivity in the Dahl S rat.

Intimal hyperplasia of the infant parasellar carotid artery: a potential developmental factor in atherosclerosis and SIDS

Intimal cushions that project into the lumen of arteries are precursors of atherosclerotic plaque formation. The "carotid siphon, " although frequently affected by atherosclerosis, was never analyzed for the occurrence of neonatal intimal hyperplasia. This study provides a topographic and morphometric analysis of intimal cushions in the parasellar internal carotid artery (pICA) of the human infant. A total of 35 specimens were studied in detail, using both standard histological techniques and a new method of computer-aided 3D reconstruction. Intimal hyperplasia occurred at 3 characteristic locations of the pICA: (1) the convex side of the posterior knee (C5 cushion), (2) the bottom of the horizontal segment (C4 cushion), and (3) the concave side of the anterior knee (C3 cushion). The extension of the cushions and the degrees to which they occluded the vessel lumens were measured. The complex shape of the pICA required 3D computer models for exact topographical descriptions and precise measurements. Our results suggest that the occurrence and degree of intimal hyperplasia are related to shape changes of the pICA during postnatal development. We predict that individuals who retain the relatively straight course of the fetal pICA throughout their lives are less prone to develop atherosclerotic lesions at this portion of the carotid artery. A possible contribution of neonatal intimal cushions to the origin of sudden infant death syndrome is discussed.

Short-chain fatty acids and thyroid hormone interact in regulating enterocyte gene transcription

BACKGROUND

Enterocyte differentiation is known to be regulated by a variety of extracellular compounds, among which are triiodothyronine (T3) and the short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Because several SCFAs are known to induce histone hyperacetylation, and T3 action has been recently linked to chromatin structure, we sought to investigate the interplay between SCFAs and T3 in regard to the enterocyte differentiation marker, intestinal alkaline phosphatase (IAP).

METHODS

Caco-2 cells were transiently transfected with a reporter construct containing 2.4 kb of the human IAP gene 5' flanking region (IAP2.4CAT). Cotransfections were carried out with and without thyroid hormone receptor-1 (TR beta-1) or histone deacetylase-1 (HDAC-1) expression plasmids. Cells were treated with 5 mmol/L SCFAs (propionic, butyric, valeric, or caproic acids as propionate, butyrate, valerate, or caproate, respectively), with and without 10 nmol/L T3. Reporter gene activity was measured and the level of histone acetylation assessed by means of acid-urea-triton (AUT) gel assays.

RESULTS

TR beta-1 cotransfection caused a marked decrease in IAP reporter gene activity, which is consistent with the well-known phenomenon of ligand independent repression (LIR), whereas T3 treatment reversed the LIR and caused further reporter gene activation. Treatment with SCFAs similarly resulted in a complete blockage of LIR, and, in fact, turned the TR beta-1 into a transcriptional activator, even in the absence of T3. Concomitant treatment with T3 and butyric acid produced an additive effect on IAP transactivation. In contrast, cotransfection with HDAC-1 attenuated the effects of SCFAs on IAP gene activation. AUT gel studies demonstrated histone hyperacetylation in response to SCFA treatment.

CONCLUSION

One or more DNA cis-elements in the human IAP gene mediate ligand independent repression by the TR beta-1, an effect that can be entirely reversed by those SCFAs that induce histone hyperacetylation. In addition T3 and SCFAs can act in concert to induce IAP gene transcription, demonstrating an important link between triiodothyronine and histone hyperacetylation in regard to enterocyte-specific gene expression.

A novel Sp1-related cis element involved in intestinal alkaline phosphatase gene transcription

We have used sodium butyrate-treated HT-29 cells as an in vitro model system to study the molecular mechanisms underlying intestinal alkaline phosphatase (IAP) gene activation. Transient transfection assays using human IAP-CAT reporter genes along with DNase I footprinting were used to localize a critical cis element (IF-III) corresponding to the sequence 5'-GACTGGGCGGGGTCAAGATGGA-3'. Deletion of the IF-III element resulted in a dramatic reduction in reporter gene activity, and IF-III was shown to function in the context of a heterologous (SV40) promoter in a cell type-specific manner, further supporting its functional role in IAP transactivation. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays revealed that IF-III binds Sp1 and Sp3, but these factors comprise only a portion of the total nuclear binding and appear to mediate only a small portion of its transcriptional activity. IF-III does not correspond to any previously characterized regulatory region from other intestine-specific genes. We have thus identified a novel, Sp1-related cis-regulatory element in the human IAP gene that appears to play a role in its transcriptional activation during differentiation in vitro.

Role of neuronal nitric oxide synthase in Dahl salt-sensitive hypertension

The goal of this study was to determine the role of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) in the arterial pressure, renal hemodynamic, and renal excretory changes that occur in Dahl salt-resistant (DR) and salt-sensitive (DS) rats during changes in Na intake. Fifty-three DR and DS rats/Rapp strain of 7 to 8 weeks of age with indwelling arterial and venous catheters were subjected to low (0.87 mmol/d) or high (20.6 mmol/d) Na intake beginning 2 days before the start of the control period. Measurements were made during a 5-day control period followed by a 5-day period of nNOS inhibition with intravenous 7-nitroindazole (7NI, 1.67 mg. kg-1. h-1) or vehicle infusion. After 5 days of 7NI, mean arterial pressure increased to 120+/-6% control in the DR-high Na, 7NI rats compared with 98+/-1% control (P<0.05) in the DR-high Na alone rats. After 5 days of 7NI, DS-high Na rats, which had a control arterial pressure 31 mm Hg higher than the comparable DR rats, increased their arterial pressure to 114+/-3% control, which was not significantly different from the DS-high Na alone pressure of 110+/-2% control. No significant changes occurred in glomerular filtration rate, effective renal plasma flow, urinary Na excretion, or urine volume because of 7NI. However, plasma renin activity decreased significantly in DR and DS rats on low Na intake with 7NI infusion. The data demonstrate that the highly salt-resistant DR rat became salt-sensitive during nNOS inhibition with 7NI. However, the arterial pressure of the DS rat was not affected by 7NI. This suggests that nitric oxide produced by nNOS in the DR rat normally helps to prevent salt-sensitive hypertension and that low functional levels of nNOS in the DS rat may contribute to its salt-sensitivity.

[The application of intracoronary stenting to type B and C lesions of coronary arteries]

Intracoronary stenting was introduced to 4 lesions due to coronary arterial dissections and to 2 lesions owing to elastic recoil of coronary arteries and stent placement was directly performed in 6 complex coronary lesions after 12 target lesions from 7 patients with Types B and C lesions of coronary arteries had been pre-dilated with balloon. Coronary angiography showed that dissections and recoils had disappeared. Target lesions were well dilated and blood flow was well improved in all cases, one patient was complicated with hemorrhage which was cured quickly. During the follow-up period of 1 to 24 months, another case had recurrence of angina after 2 months of stenting which could be controlled with anti-angina agents. These indicate that intracoronary stenting had good therapeutic effect and is considered as a safe, fast and effective method in dealing with acute complications of coronary artery after routine PTCA.

p21(WAF1) is required for butyrate-mediated growth inhibition of human colon cancer cells

A diet high in fiber is associated with a decreased incidence and growth of colon cancers. Butyrate, a four-carbon short-chain fatty acid product of fiber fermentation within the colon, appears to mediate these salutary effects. We sought to determine the molecular mechanism by which butyrate mediates growth inhibition of colonic cancer cells and thereby to elucidate the molecular link between a high-fiber diet and the arrest of colon carcinogenesis. We show that concomitant with growth arrest, butyrate induces p21 mRNA expression in an immediate-early fashion, through transactivation of a promoter cis-element(s) located within 1.4 kb of the transcriptional start site, independent of p53 binding. Studies using the specific histone hyperacetylating agent, trichostatin A, and histone deacetylase 1 indicate that growth arrest and p21 induction occur through a mechanism involving histone hyperacetylation. We show the critical importance of p21 in butyrate-mediated growth arrest by first confirming that stable overexpression of the p21 gene is able to cause growth arrest in the human colon carcinoma cell line, HT-29. Furthermore, using p21-deleted HCT116 human colon carcinoma cells, we provide convincing evidence that p21 is required for growth arrest to occur in response to histone hyperacetylation, but not for serum starvation nor postconfluent growth. Thus, p21 appears to be a critical effector of butyrate-induced growth arrest in colonic cancer cells, and may be an important molecular link between a high-fiber diet and the prevention of colon carcinogenesis.

Na-K-2Cl cotransporter gene expression and function during enterocyte differentiation. Modulation of Cl- secretory capacity by butyrate

The basolateral Na-K-2Cl cotransporter (NKCC1) is a key component of the intestinal crypt cell secretory apparatus. Its fate during the transition to absorptive enterocyte and the potential impact of its altered expression on secretory output have not been addressed. In this report, NKCC1 mRNA was found to be expressed in rat jejunal crypt but not villus cells. Butyrate treatment of intestinal epithelial HT29 cells induced a differentiation pattern that recapitulated the rat intestinal crypt-villus axis, with NKCC1 mRNA levels decreasing in a time- and dose-dependent fashion in parallel with upregulation of apical brush-border markers. Butyrate but not acetate or proprionate decreased basal and cAMP-stimulated bumetanide-sensitive K+ (86Rb) uptake in both HT29 cells and the Cl--secreting T84 line. Butyrate markedly decreased transepithelial Cl- secretion in confluent T84 monolayers without effect on cAMP-regulated apical Cl- efflux. We conclude that NKCC1 regulation during enterocyte differentiation occurs at the level of gene expression, and that selective downregulation of NKCC1 gene expression and function by butyrate leads to a profound decrease in transepithelial Cl- secretion. These data emphasize the importance of NKCC1 in determining epithelial secretory capacity and suggest the possibility of modulation of the enterocytic transport phenotype as therapy for diarrheal disorders.

[Expression of oncogene ras product p21 protein in the tissues of penis cancer and its surrounding tissues]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the clinical significance of expression of oncogene ras product p21 protein in the tissues of penis cancer and its surrounding tissues.

METHOD

Oncogene ras product p21 protein in 32 cases of penis cancer, 32 cases of para-carcinoma tissues and in 16 cases of normal penis tissues were detected by immunohistochemical ABC method.

RESULT

p21 protein expressed in 28 cases of penis cancer and 8 cases of para-carcinoma tissues, but it did not express in 16 cases of normal penis. Expression of p21 protein was related to pathological grading and clinical stage i. e, expression of p21 protein enhanced with the increasing of grading and stage. The positive cases of p21 protein expression in para-carcinoma tissue had worse impact on the prognosis of early recurrence and metastasis.

CONCLUSION

p21 protein could be used as predictor of malignant potential and prognosis of penis cancer.

A new episcopic method for rapid 3-D reconstruction: applications in anatomy and embryology

The topographic relations of complex structures and the morphogenesis of organ systems can only be fully understood in their three-dimensional context. Three-dimensional (3-D) reconstruction of physically sectioned specimens has become an indispensable tool in modern anatomical and embryological research. Teaching also makes increasingly use of 3-D representations, in particular in the case of embryonic systems that undergo complicated transformations of form and shape. At present no cheap and simple technique is available that generates accurate 3-D models of sectioned objects. In this study we describe a novel technique that rapidly provides faithful 3-D models of sectioned specimens. The images are captured directly from the cutting surface of the embedding block after each sectioning and "on block" staining step. Automatic image processing generates a stack of binary images of the specimen contour. Binary images of internal structures are obtained both by automatic segmentation and manual tracing. Since these image series are inherently aligned, they can be reconstructed three-dimensionally without time-consuming alignment procedures. The quality and the flexibility of the method are demonstrated by reconstructing three kinds of specimens of different histological composition and staining contrast: a 4 mm mouse embryo together with several of its inner organs, a cavernous sinus region of a human infant, and a segment of a human carotid artery. Very short processing times and the faithful representation of complex structural arrangements recommend this technique for routine use in morphological research and for creating embryologic teaching models or 3-D embryonic staging series.

[Application of diode laser in the operation of retinal diseases]

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of diode laser photocoagulation applied on 43 cases of various kinds of fundus diseases with media opacity and on 40 cases during vitreo-retinal surgery.

METHODS

Indirect ophthalmoscope laser photocoagulator was used for fundus diseases, and endolaser used during surgery.

RESULTS

Vision was improved in 24.7% of the eyes, and was unchanged in 62.9% of the eyes. The neovascularization in proliferative diabetic retinopathy regressed in 78.3% of the eyes. All the retinal holes were closed.

CONCLUSIONS

Diode laser can be used for treatment of some retinal diseases and in the operation. Good results can be obtained in the eyes with some extent of media opacity. No obvious side-effect was observed.