Mapping co-benefits for carbon storage and biodiversity to inform conservation policy and action

Integrated high-resolution maps of carbon stocks and biodiversity that identify areas of potential co-benefits for climate change mitigation and biodiversity conservation can help facilitate the implementation of global climate and biodiversity commitments at local levels. However, the multi-dimensional nature of biodiversity presents a major challenge for understanding, mapping and communicating where and how biodiversity benefits coincide with climate benefits. A new integrated approach to biodiversity is therefore needed. Here, we (a) present a new high-resolution map of global above- and below-ground carbon stored in biomass and soil, (b) quantify biodiversity values using two complementary indices (BIp and BIr) representing proactive and reactive approaches to conservation, and (c) examine patterns of carbon-biodiversity overlap by identifying 'hotspots' (20% highest values for both aspects). Our indices integrate local diversity and ecosystem intactness, as well as regional ecosystem intactness across the broader area supporting a similar natural assemblage of species to the location of interest. The western Amazon Basin, Central Africa and Southeast Asia capture the last strongholds of highest local biodiversity and ecosystem intactness worldwide, while the last refuges for unique biological communities whose habitats have been greatly reduced are mostly found in the tropical Andes and central Sundaland. There is 38 and 5% overlap in carbon and biodiversity hotspots, for proactive and reactive conservation, respectively. Alarmingly, only around 12 and 21% of these proactive and reactive hotspot areas, respectively, are formally protected. This highlights that a coupled approach is urgently needed to help achieve both climate and biodiversity global targets. This would involve (1) restoring and conserving unprotected, degraded ecosystems, particularly in the Neotropics and Indomalaya, and (2) retaining the remaining strongholds of intactness. This article is part of the theme issue 'Climate change and ecosystems: threats, opportunities and solutions'.

Macrophage Depletion Improves Chronic Rejection in Rats With Allograft Heart Transplantation

BACKGROUND

Macrophages may be important in chronic rejection after organ transplantation. This study aimed to investigate the possibility of depleting macrophages for a certain amount of time to alleviate chronic rejection in a heart transplant model of Fischer to Lewis rats.

METHODS

Clodronate liposome was injected abdominally to deplete macrophages for 2 time frames. The expression levels of ectodysplasin 1, arginase 1 (Arg1), chitinase-like lectin (Ym1), interferon gamma, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), smooth muscle α-actin (α-SMA), monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), and interleukin 10 (IL-10) were detected.

RESULTS

1. The expression levels of α-SMA, interferon gamma, TNF-α, and MCP-1 and the transformation of peripheral T cells were lower after macrophage depletion for 2 or 4 weeks. 2. The expression levels of α-SMA, TNF-α, and MCP-1 and the transformation of peripheral T cells were even lower after 4 weeks compared with 2 weeks, except for interferon gamma. 3. A higher level of expression of Arg1 and Ym1 after macrophage depletion for 2 weeks was observed. 4. A higher level of expression of IL-10 after macrophage depletion for 2 weeks, but not 4 weeks, was also observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Macrophage clearance after heart transplantation alleviated chronic rejection probably via M2 polarization of regenerated macrophages, reduced T-lymphocyte proliferation, and changed the expression levels of interferon gamma, TNF-α, MCP-1, and IL-10.

Baicalein blocked cervical carcinoma cell proliferation by targeting CCND1 via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

The purpose of this study was to investigate the inhibitory effect of baicalein on the proliferation of cervical carcinoma cells and stimulate cervical carcinoma cells with baicalein. MTT method was used to observe cell proliferation. Flow cytometry was used to observe cell cycle, and gene technology was used to observe the expression of corresponding genes at the level of gene and protein. β-catenin activity was assessed using Western blot and ChIP. Baicalein suppressed cervical carcinoma cell HeLa proliferation by enhancing the activity of caspase-3. Baicalein blocked cell cycle at G0/G1 stage by inhibiting the expression of some genes. At the same time, it can prevent the nuclear translocation of β-catenin and inhibit the activity of Wnt. When the Wnt signaling pathway is increased, the proliferation of HeLa cells is inhibited, and apoptosis is promoted in this way. In conclusion, it indicated that baicalein inhibits cervical carcinoma progression by targeting CCND1 via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Streamflow calculation for medium-to-small rivers in data scarce inland areas

Inland streamflow estimation is essential in global water supply and environment protection. In data-scarce areas a highly efficient way of estimating streamflow is through remote sensing methods. However, high requirement of most previous methods on ground-measured data hinder their wide use in data-scarce areas. Therefore, this paper presented a new framework for estimation of streamflow in medium-to-small rivers with few ground measurements by using high-resolution unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imagery. A new Virtual Hydraulic Radius (VHR) method was proposed to complement AMHG (at-many-stations hydraulic geometry), a method not requiring any ground measurements when global parameters are used (global-AMHG) in large-scaled rivers but yielding great uncertainties in smaller scaled rivers, thus creating a VHR-AMHG method for medium-to-small rivers. The accuracy verification of the proposed method was performed by comparing it to field measurement data and the global parameters of the original AMHG (global-AMHG). Results showed that the root mean square error calculated from VHR-AMHG was 32.15 m³/s, while that from global-AMHG was 305.65 m³/s, indicating that the VHR-AHRG method yields a significantly higher accuracy for streamflow estimation for medium-to-small rivers. We found that regardless of the size of the river, AMHG is not applicable for rivers having excessively small b values in the equation w = aQ^b (low-b rivers). For medium-to-small rivers with b < 0.25, AMHG is not recommended. The accuracy of the original AMHG method is limited by the initial value of the model parameters and the condition that the congruent discharge (Q_c) has to be within the range of observational discharge. The initial value setting of the model parameters significantly impacts the calculation accuracy. The VHR-AMHG method is able to overcome the deficiencies of the original AMHG, i.e. being overly dependent on the initial value setting with long-series known discharge data. It also eliminates the limitation of the Q_c condition, as it achieves a higher accuracy for rivers in which Q_c does not satisfy the condition compared to using global-AMHG on rivers that actually meet the condition, thus greatly expanding its usage scope. Thus VHR-AMHG method can provide detailed data on the spatial and temporal distribution of regional and national streamflow for governments and stakeholders, and offer scientific data support for wisely making water supply polices and sustainably protecting eco-environment.

A case of intracranial molluscum contagiosum virus infection diagnosed by metagenomic sequencing of cerebrospinal fluid

Molluscum contagiosum is a common, self-limiting infectious disease of the skin caused by molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). The disease primarily affects children, sexually active adults, and immunocompromised individuals. Transmission of the virus occurs by direct skin contact. Therefore, the virus is usually detected in the skin and genitals of patients. However, the diagnosis of intracranial infection by the virus is difficult if the skin/mucosa lessons are atypical or absent, and the presence of the virus in the cerebrospinal fluid has not been reported. We report a very rare case of intracranial infection by molluscum contagiosum virus. A 25-year-old girl was admitted to our hospital due to severe headache but no fever or other symptoms. Upon examination, some small flesh-colored flattened papules on both arms were noticed. Blood tests showed slightly reduced levels of CD3 and CD4 T lymphocytes. Three-dimensional time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography (3D-TOF-MRA) and head magnetic resonance (MR) were both normal. Lumbar puncture was performed, and metagenomic sequencing was applied to the spinal fluid. The unique sequences of the molluscum contagiosum virus were identified in the fluid. The patient was then diagnosed with intracranial molluscum contagiosum virus infection. No special treatment was given. The headache gradually disappeared, and the patient was discharged. During our quarterly follow-up, the girl appeared normal, and her skin lesions disappeared. However, her CD3 and CD4 T lymphocyte counts were still slightly lower than the normal level. Our case shows that the application of metagenomic sequencing to cerebrospinal fluid is a sensitive and powerful means to detect pathogens causing intracranial infection. Keywords: Molluscum contagiosum; intracranial infection; metagenomics sequencing.

Genome-wide association study reveals candidate genes associated with body measurement traits in Chinese Wagyu beef cattle

We performed a genome-wide association study to identify candidate genes for body measurement traits in 463 Wagyu beef cattle typed with the Illumina Bovine HD 770K SNP array. At the genome-wide level, we detected 18, five and one SNPs associated with hip height, body height and body length respectively. In total, these SNPs are within or near 11 genes, six of which (PENK, XKR4, IMPAD1, PLAG1, CCND2 and SNTG1) have been reported previously and five of which (CSMD3, LAP3, SYN3, FAM19A5 and TIMP3) are novel candidate genes that we found to be associated with body measurement traits. Further exploration of these candidate genes will facilitate genetic improvement in Chinese Wagyu beef cattle.

Quantum Oscillations in Flux-Grown SmB_{6} with Embedded Aluminum

SmB_{6} is a candidate topological Kondo insulator that displays surface conduction at low temperatures. Here, we perform torque magnetization measurements as a means to detect de Haas-van Alphen (dHvA) oscillations in SmB_{6} crystals grown by aluminum flux. We find that dHvA oscillations occur in single crystals containing embedded aluminum, originating from the flux used to synthesize SmB_{6}. Measurements on a sample with multiple, unconnected aluminum inclusions show that aluminum crystallizes in a preferred orientation within the SmB_{6} cubic lattice. The presence of aluminum is confirmed through bulk susceptibility measurements, but does not show a signature in transport measurements. We discuss the ramifications of our results.

[Role and related mechanism of resolvin D1 in lung ischemia reperfusion injury in rats]

Objective: To investigate the role and related mechanism of resolvin D1 (RvD1) in lung ischemia-reperfusion injury (LIRI) in rats. Methods: Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats, 7-8 weeks, weighing 220-280 g, were divided into 4 groups using a random number table method: sham operation group, lung ischemia reperfusion control group, normal saline group, and RvD1 group. The rat model of LIRI was produced by 45 min of occlusion of the left hilum of lungs followed by 150 min reperfusion. In sham group, no blocking of the left hilum of lung after thoracotomy; Normal saline 2 ml/kg and RvD1 100 μg/kg were injected respectively at 10 min of reperfusion in normal saline group and RvD1 group. Blood samples were collected from the femoral vein for determination of interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, soluble inter-cell adhesion molecules (sICAM-1) concentrations at 150 min of reperfusion. The rats were sacrificed after collection of blood samples and then lung tissues were taken for observation of the pathological changes and for measurement of lung wet/dry weight ratio (W/D). The the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-2 and the activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO) in lung tissues were determined. The protein relative expression of nuclear factor (NF)-κB in lung tissues was detected by Western blot. Lung tissue cell apoptosis was detected with TUNEL method. Results: The plasma level of IL-6, TNF-α, sICAM-1 in normal saline group and RvD1 group were significantly higher than those in the Sham group [(110±7), (100±4) vs (72±3) ng/L, (151±8), (153±6) vs (104±5) ng/L, (2 690±133), (2 760±167) vs (1 953±125) ng/L]. Besides, NF-κB protein relative expression level of lung tissues up-regulated [(0.681±0.033), (0.664±0.024) vs (0.292±0.011)] (all P<0.05). The W/D, apoptosis index, MDA, MCP-1, MIP-2 contents and MPO activity in lung ischemia reperfusion control group, normal saline group and RvD1 group were significantly higher than those in the Sham group [(5.92±0.31), (5.85±0.24), (5.06±0.08) vs (4.14±0.10), (32.9±1.5)%, (31.9±1.3)%, (17.7±1.8)% vs (8.1±0.6)%, (72.1±2.3), (66.7±3.7), (34.0±1.4) vs (22.0±0.8) nmol/mg, (3.99±0.28), (3.86±0.25), (2.66±0.16) vs (1.47±0.17) pg/mg, (9.45±0.53), (9.68±0.62), (7.62±0.22) vs (4.70±0.41) pg/mg, (3.01±0.18), (2.92±0.19), (1.58±0.11) vs (0.98±0.07) U/g] (all P<0.05). The plasma levels of the cytokines mentioned above, the W/D, the apoptosis index, MDA, MCP-1, MIP-2 contents and MPO activity in RvD1 group were significantly lower than those in the lung ischemia reperfusion control group [(63±4) vs (110±7) ng/L, (90±8) vs (151±8) ng/L, (1 835±182) vs (2 690±133) ng/L, (5.06±0.08) vs (5.92±0.31), (17.7±1.8)% vs (32.9±1.5)%, (34.0±1.4) vs (72.1±2.3) nmol/mg, (2.66±0.16) vs (3.99±0.28) pg/mg, (7.62±0.22) vs (9.45±0.53) pg/mg, (1.58±0.11) vs (3.01±0.18) U/g]. Besides, NF-κB protein relative expression level of lung tissues down-regulated [(0.313±0.012) vs (0.681±0.033)] (all P<0.05). Inflammatory cell infiltration in LIRI groups increased significantly, while it was significantly reduced in RvD1 group. Conclusion: RvD1 can effectively alleviate the tissue damage caused by lung ischemia-reperfusion through down-regulating NF-κB expression, relieving inflammatory reaction and oxidative stress, reducing apoptosis in rats.

[Efficacy and safety of haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for 17 patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemamoglobinuria]

目的

探讨单倍型造血干细胞移植治疗阵发性睡眠性血红蛋白尿症（PNH）的疗效和安全性。

方法

回顾性分析2013年1月至2017年9月采用亲缘单倍型移植治疗的17例PNH患者临床资料。

结果

17例患者中原发PNH 4例，再生障碍性贫血（AA）-PNH综合征13例。所有患者均以改良白消安+环磷酰胺联合抗胸腺细胞球蛋白（ATG）进行清髓性预处理。G-CSF动员的供者骨髓联合外周血干细胞作为移植物来源。环孢素A+吗替麦考酚酯+短程甲氨蝶呤预防移植物抗宿主病（GVHD）。移植后17例患者均获粒系及巨核系造血重建，粒细胞中位植入时间为移植后12（10~15）d，血小板中位植入时间为移植后14（11~45）d。所有患者在+30 d经植入鉴定证实为完全供者嵌合体。7例患者发生Ⅱ~Ⅳ度急性GVHD，4例发生慢性GVHD。中位随访时间为27.1（8.6~60.4）个月，17例患者中15例存活，2例死亡，死因分别为肺部重症感染和移植相关的血栓性微血管病。3年总生存率为（77.8±15.2）%。

结论

对于无完全相合供者的PNH患者，尝试进行单倍型造血干细胞移植有效、安全。

Optofluidic system based on electrowetting technology for dynamically tunable spectrum absorber

An optofluidic system that uses the electrowetting technology to dynamically control the local surface plasmon resonance of the silver nanoparticle is invented. The silver nanoparticle is initially suspended at the interface of the polar liquid and the non-polar liquid. As the interface morphology changes with the applied voltage, the media distribution surrounding particle is changed accordingly, thus realizing the resonance absorption peak's modulation. The investigation result shows that a wide range of the spectral colors from red to blue can be selectively absorbed just by a single device. Specifically, when the radius of the particle is 50 nm, the wavelength of the absorption peak can be dynamically modulated from 460 nm to 607 nm. This proposed method can be used to design and prepare rapidly adjustable optical elements.

Identification of driver pathways in cancer based on combinatorial patterns of somatic gene mutations

With the availability of high-throughput technologies, a huge number of biological data (e.g., somatic mutation, DNA methylation and gene expression) in multiple cancers have been generated. A major challenge is to identify functional and vital driver mutation import for the initiation and progression of cancer. In this paper, we introduce a novel method, named Co-occurring mutated metagene Genetic Algorithm (CoGA), to solve the maximum weight submatrix problem, with the aim of distinguishing mutated driver pathways in cancer. The algorithm relies on the combinatorial properties of mutations in the same pathways: high coverage and mutual exclusivity, and the possible properties of mutations in different pathways: co-occurring pattern. We carried out the experiment with glioblastoma multiform (GBM) data. The experimental results show that compared with the original model, our algorithm has more potential to identify driver pathways in cancer with biological significance.

[The role of high-mobility group box protein 1 in the signaling pathways of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats]

Objective: To investigate the role of high-mobility group box protein 1 (HMGB1) in the signaling pathways of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) in rats. Methods: Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats, weighing 200-250 g, were randomly divided into 4 groups (n=10) using a random number table: sham operation group (group sham), MIRI group (group IR-C), anti-HMGB1 antibody group (group IR-H-Ig), contrast antibody control group (group IR-Ig). The rat model of MIRI was established by 30 min occlusion of left anterior descending branch (LAD) of coronary artery followed by 180 min reperfusion. In sham group, no blocking of LAD was adopted after thoracotomy. Anti-HMGB1 antibody and contrast antibody immunoglobulin G (IgG) (2 mg/kg) were injected respectively at 30 min of reperfusion in IR-H-Ig and IR-Ig groups. Blood samples were collected from the femoral vein for determination of interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), HMGB1, creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) and cardiac troponin I (cTnI) concentrations at 180 min of reperfusion. The rats were then sacrificed after blood samples were taken and the pathological changes of myocardial tissue were observed. The mRNA and protein expressions of HMGB1, toll-like receptor 4(TLR4) and nuclear factor (NF)-κB in myocardial tissues were detected by Western blot and real-time quantitative PCR respectively. Results: Compared with the Sham group, the plasma level of IL-6, TNF-α, HMGB1 increased significantly and HMGB1, TLR4 and NF-κB mRNA and protein levels of myocardial tissues up-regulated in IR-C and IR-Ig groups (all P<0.05). The plasma level of CK-MB and cTnI increased significantly in IR-C, IR-H-Ig, IR-Ig group (all P<0.05). Compared with the IR-C group, the levels of the plasma HMGB1, the cytokines mentioned above, CK-MB and cTnI were significantly decreased, and mRNA and protein expressions of HMGB1, TLR4 and NF-κB of myocardial tissues down-regulated in IR-H-Ig group (all P<0.05). Inflammatory cell infiltration in MIRI groups increased significantly, while it was significantly reduced in IR-H-Ig group. Conclusion: Blocking the combination of HMGB1 and TLR4 can effectively alleviate the tissue damage caused by myocardial ischemia-reperfusion in rats.

Baicalein and Ly294002 induces liver cancer cells apoptosis via regulating phosphatidyl inositol 3-kinase/Akt signaling pathway

Aim

The aim of this study is to investigate the mechanism of baicalein in inducing human liver cell line SMMC-7721 apoptosis.

Materials and Methods

Twenty micromoles baicalein or 10 μM LY294002 was adopted to treat SMMC-7721 cells. Cell proliferation was tested by cell counting kit-8 assay. Cell cycle was determined by flow cytometry and cyclin D1 expression. Cell apoptosis was detected by annexin V/propidium iodide double staining. Phosphatidyl inositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway was assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot.

Results

Baicalein suppressed liver cancer cell SMMC-7721 proliferation and induced cell apoptosis together with LY294002. Baicalein blocked cell cycle in G0-G1 phase and downregulated cyclin D1 level. Baicalein and LY294002 significantly suppressed PI3K/Akt signaling pathway-related molecule activity at both mRNA and protein levels (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Baicalein can inhibit liver cancer cell proliferation and promote cell apoptosis by affecting PI3K/Akt signaling pathway together with LY294002.

Transport stress induces heart damage in newly hatched chicks via blocking the cytoprotective heat shock response and augmenting nitric oxide production

Transport stress affects the animal's metabolism and psychological state. As a pro-survival pathway, the heat shock response (HSR) protects healthy cells from stressors. However, it is unclear whether the HSR plays a role in transport stress-induced heart damage. To evaluate the effects of transport stress on heart damage and HSR protection, newly hatched chicks were treated with transport stress for 2 h, 4 h and 8 h. Transport stress caused decreases in body weight and increases in serum creatine kinase (CK) activity, nitric oxide (NO) content in heart tissue, cardiac nitric oxide syntheses (NOS) activity and NOS isoforms transcription. The mRNA expression of heat shock factors (HSFs, including HSF1-3) and heat shock proteins (HSPs, including HSP25, HSP40, HSP47, HSP60, HSP70, HSP90 and HSP110) in the heart of 2 h transport-treated chicks was upregulated. After 8 h of transport stress in chicks, the transcription levels of the same HSPs and HSF2 were reduced in the heart. It was also found that the changes in the HSP60, HSP70 and HSP90 protein levels had similar tendencies. These results suggested that transport stress augmented NO generation through enhancing the activity of NOS and the transcription of NOS isoforms. Therefore, this study provides new evidence that transport stress induces heart damage in the newly hatched chicks by blocking the cytoprotective HSR and augmenting NO production.

Identification and characterization of doublesex in Bemisia tabaci

Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) is an important agricultural pest with a worldwide distribution. Although B. tabaci is known to have a unique haplodiploid reproductive strategy, its sex determination mechanism is largely unknown. In this study, we cloned the full-length sequence of B. tabaci doublesex (Btdsx) and found that Btdsx has 28 splicing isoforms. We found two new splicing isoforms of transformer 2 (Bttra2), which encode two proteins. We also confirmed that both genes lack sex-specific splicing isoforms. Real-time quantitative PCR analysis showed that the expression of Btdsx and Bttra2 is higher in males than in females. RNA interference of Bttra2 affected the expression of Btdsx and vice versa. Furthermore, silencing of Bttra2 or Btdsx caused malformation of the male genitalia (anal style). It did not affect the female phenotype, but reduced the expression of vitellogenin gene in females. These results indicate that Btdsx is associated with sex determination in B. tabaci and that Btdsx and Bttra2 affect each other and are important for male genitalia formation. In addition to increasing our understanding of the roles of dsx and tra2 in the sex determination of B. tabaci, the results will be useful for studies of sex determination in other haplodiploid species.

A novel index using routine clinical parameters for predicting significant liver inflammation in chronic hepatitis B

Identifying the degree of liver inflammation is critical for therapeutic judgement of patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). However, we lack indexes which can accurately predict significant liver inflammation in patients with CHB. This study aimed to develop a simple predictive index for liver inflammation in CHB using routine clinical parameters. A total of 519 patients with CHB who underwent liver biopsy were enrolled and randomly divided into training (n = 346) and validation cohorts (n = 173). Based on routine clinical parameters, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT; P = 0.031) and platelets (PLT; P < 0.001) were identified as independent predictors of significant inflammation by multivariable analysis in the training cohort. Accordingly, the GGT to PLT ratio (GPR) was developed to amplify the opposing effects for predicting liver inflammation. In the training cohort, the AUCs of GPR in predicting significant inflammation were 0.791 (95% CI: 0.742-0.839), 0.783 (95% CI: 0.717-0.849) and 0.791 (95% CI: 0.716-0.867) in the entire patients with CHB, HBeAg-positive CHB patients and HBeAg-negative CHB patients, respectively. The diagnostic performance of GPR for significant inflammation was significantly superior to that of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and GGT in all patients with CHB and HBeAg-positive CHB patients, but was comparable with ALT, AST and GGT in HBeAg-negative CHB patients. In the validation cohort, the diagnostic performance of GPR in assessing significant liver inflammation was also superior to other indexes in all patients with CHB and HBeAg-positive CHB patients, but was comparable with GGT in HBeAg-negative CHB patients. Thus, GPR can be a novel and simple index for predicting significant liver inflammation in CHB, especially for HBeAg-positive CHB.

Market characteristics associated with community health assessments by local health departments

OBJECTIVES

Community health assessments (CHAs) have been promoted as a strategy for population health. This study uses the resource dependence theory (RDT) to examine how external market characteristics are associated with CHAs conducted by local health departments (LHDs) and subsequent partnering with hospitals for CHAs in the United States.

STUDY DESIGN

The RDT was used to guide the conceptualization of the market in the context of local public health. RDT emphasizes that organizations are not in control of all the resources they need and, to some extent, must rely on the external environment to provide those necessary resources. Binary measures were used to examine whether LHDs conducted CHAs and whether they did so in partnership with a local hospital. Independent variables were identified to measure the RDT constructs of munificence (resource availability in the environment), complexity (level of heterogeneity), and dynamism (level of environmental turbulence).

METHODS

Bivariate (Chi-squared and t-tests) and multivariate (logistic regression) cross-sectional analyses were conducted using secondary data from the National Association of County and City Health Officials 2013 Profile Survey, the 2013 County Health Rankings data set, and the Health Resources and Services Administration's Area Health Resource File.

RESULTS

Two of three variables measuring munificence were positively associated with having conducted a CHA; one variable was also related to doing so in conjunction with a local hospital. One measure of market complexity was negatively associated with having conducted a CHA. No measure of dynamism was related to the dependent variables.

CONCLUSIONS

Study results provide partial support for the use of RDT in understanding the relationship between market factors and LHDs' activities around CHAs. Local hospitals as partners and other market factors should be considered by LHDs when conducting CHAs. Findings from this work will be of interest to public health practitioners, policy-makers, and researchers interested in public health and population health improvement.

[DNA methylation modification of BRMS1 in triple-negative breast cancer and its correlation with tumor metastasis]

Objective: To investigate the effect of methylation status of breast cancer metastasis suppressor gene 1 (BRMS1) on the expression of breast cancer and the biological behavior of cancer cells in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Methods: The expression of BRMS1 in TNBC tissues and corresponding non-malignant tissues and its relationship with clinicopathological parameters were detected by immunohistochemistry. The mRNA and protein expression of BRMS1 in normal breast epithelial cells and TNBC cells were detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting. The methylation specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP) was used to detect the methylation status of BRMS1 in each cell. These cells were treated with demethylated preparations (5-Aza-dC) to re-activate BRMS1 expression. Using tumor cell invasion assay to detect influence of BRMS1 demethylation on the invasion capacity of cancer cells. The data were statistically analyzed. Results: The positive expression rate of BRMS1 protein in TNBC tissues was significantly lower than that in corresponding non-malignant tissues (χ(2)= 6.635, P<0.05). The mRNA expression level of BRMS1 in patients with lymph node metastasis was significantly lower than those with no lymph node metastasis (P=0.018). The down-regulation of BRMS1 expression was related to the methylation of DNA promoter, which was statistically significant (χ(2)=14.68, P<0.05). The mRNA and protein expression of BRMS1 was also correlated with tumor size and TNM staging (P=0.000-0.003). After using 5-Aza-dC, the number of cells with invasive capacity was significantly lower than those of the control group (t=3.262-10.72, P<0.05). Conclusions: The decrease of BRMS1 expression in TNBC cells is related to the methylation of DNA. Demethylation can inhibit the invasion of breast cancer cells.

Baicalein inhibits breast cancer growth via activating a novel isoform of the long noncoding RNA PAX8-AS1-N

Baicalein, a natural flavonoid, has fascinating anti-cancer properties in breast cancer. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), a class of transcripts with no protein-coding potential, also exhibit critical roles in breast cancer. However, the molecular mechanisms mediating the anti-cancer properties of baicalein and whether lncRNAs are involved in the anti-cancer effects are still unclear. In this study, we identified a novel isoform of lncRNA PAX8-AS1 (PAX8-AS1-N), which is activated by baicalein in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Functional assays showed that PAX8-AS1-N reduced cell viability, inhibited cell-cycle progression, and induced apoptosis of breast cancer cells in vitro. Depletion of PAX8-AS1-N promoted breast xenograft tumor growth in vivo. Furthermore, depletion of PAX8-AS1-N attenuated the suppressive roles of baicalein on cell viability, the apoptosis induced by baicalein, and also the suppressive roles of baicalein on tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, PAX8-AS1-N bound to miR-17-5p, and up-regulated miR-17-5p targets, such as PTEN, CDKN1A, and ZBTB4. In addition, PAX8-AS1-N was down-regulated in breast cancer and reduced expression of PAX8-AS1-N indicated poor survival of breast cancer patients. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that PAX8-AS1-N activation mediated the anti-cancer effects of baicalein via regulating miR-17-5p, and suggested that baicalein and enhancing PAX8-AS1-N would be potential therapeutic strategies against breast cancer.

Long noncoding RNA NKILA enhances the anti-cancer effects of baicalein in hepatocellular carcinoma via the regulation of NF-κB signaling

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancer and leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Baicalein, a principle flavonoid, has shown attractive anti-cancer effects on HCC. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms and influencing factors contributing to the anti-cancer effects of baicalein on HCC are still largely unknown. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been revealed to be fascinating therapeutic targets for cancers. The roles of NF-κB Interacting LncRNA (NKILA) are recently explored in several cancers. However, the expressions, clinical significances, roles and action mechanisms of NKILA in the anti-cancer effects of baicalein on HCC are unknown. In this study, we found that NKILA is down-regulated in HCC and reduced expression of NKILA indicts poor survival of HCC patients. Functional assays showed that overexpression of NKILA enhances the roles of baicalein on HCC cell proliferation inhibition, apoptosis induction, and migration inhibition in vitro and tumor growth suppression in vivo. Conversely, knockdown of NKILA suppresses the effects of baicalein. Mechanistically, we found that NKILA inhibits IκBα phosphorylation, NF-κB nuclear translocation, and NF-κB activity. NKILA also enhances the inhibitory effects of baicalein on NF-κB signaling. Furthermore, the effects of NKILA on baicalein-induced NF-κB activity inhibition, cell growth inhibition, apoptosis induction, and migration inhibition are reversed by NF-κB nuclear translocation inhibitor JSH-23. Collectively, our data demonstrated that NKILA enhances the anti-cancer effects of baicalein on HCC in vitro and in vivo via the regulation of NF-κB signaling, and implied that the combination of NKILA and baicalein would be potential therapeutic strategies for HCC.

Baicalein induces cervical cancer apoptosis through the NF-κB signaling pathway

To investigate the mechanism of baicalein in inducing human cervical cancer cell line C33A apoptosis. Baicalein (200 µM) was used to treat C33A cells. Cell proliferation was tested by the MTT assay. Cell apoptosis was detected by the TUNEL assay and caspase‑3 activity measurement. Cell cycle was determined by flow cytometry and associated gene expression at mRNA and protein levels. Nuclear factor (NF)‑κB activity was assessed by luciferase assay and western blotting. Baicalein suppressed cervical cancer cell C33A proliferation and induced cell apoptosis by activating caspase‑3 activity. Baicalein blocked cell cycle in G0/G1 phase through regulating the expression of associated genes. Baicalein inhibited NF‑κB activity by repressing nuclear translocation. Baicalein suppressed C33A proliferation and promoted cellular apoptosis by inhibiting NF‑κB signaling pathway. In conclusion, the results indicate that baicalein can inhibit cervical cancer cell proliferation and promote cell apoptosis by affecting NF-κB activity.

Transport stress-induced cerebrum oxidative stress is not mitigated by activating the Nrf2 antioxidant defense response in newly hatched chicks

Transportation of newly hatched chicks from the hatchery to the farm is inevitable, especially for parent stock and grandsire parent stock chicks. However, the possible effects of transport stress in the newly hatched chicks are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to determine the adaptive responses to transport stress by activing the nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-induced antioxidant defense. One hundred twenty newly hatched chicks were divided into 3 groups (control group, transport group, and simulation transport group) for 2, 4, and 8 h of real or simulated transportation. Transport stress could cause oxidative stress in the cerebrum of newly hatched chicks by increasing lipid peroxidation and production of free radicals and decreasing the activities of antioxidant enzymes and the glutathione:oxidized glutathione ratio. Transport stress activated the Nrf2 signaling pathway and triggered the transcription of antioxidant parameters. However, transport stress-induced cerebrum oxidative stress was not mitigated by activating the Nrf2 antioxidant defense response in newly hatched chicks.

Localized Control of Curie Temperature in Perovskite Oxide Film by Capping-Layer-Induced Octahedral Distortion

With reduced dimensionality, it is often easier to modify the properties of ultrathin films than their bulk counterparts. Strain engineering, usually achieved by choosing appropriate substrates, has been proven effective in controlling the properties of perovskite oxide films. An emerging alternative route for developing new multifunctional perovskite is by modification of the oxygen octahedral structure. Here we report the control of structural oxygen octahedral rotation in ultrathin perovskite SrRuO_{3} films by the deposition of a SrTiO_{3} capping layer, which can be lithographically patterned to achieve local control. Using a scanning Sagnac magnetic microscope, we show an increase in the Curie temperature of SrRuO_{3} due to the suppression octahedral rotations revealed by the synchrotron x-ray diffraction. This capping-layer-based technique may open new possibilities for developing functional oxide materials.

Chip-scale alignment of long DNA nanofibers on a patterned self-assembled monolayer

Controlled alignment of long DNA nanofibers is challenging. This communication reports a method to align human genomic DNA with nearly unlimited length using lithographically produced micro-patterns of self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) with positively charged terminal groups. The micro-patterns act as local DNA reservoirs to supply DNAs for nanofiber formation, and can also stretch and align DNA nanofibers to form an ordered array by controlling the dewetting profile. By reducing the size and inter-patch distance of a micro-patch, a nearly uniform array of long DNA nanofibers can be patterned over a large area. A controlled motion of a DNA containing droplet allows for free patterning of DNA nanofibers and production of complex structures without a transfer process. Bending of DNA nanofibers due to local distortion of the contact line bridges more adjacent micro-patches and increases the chance of producing continuous nanofibers. The interplay between surface tension and electrostatic attraction of positively charged micro-patterns allows the production of long DNA nanofibers in a simple yet powerful way.

Dopaminergic and behavioural changes in a loss-of-imprinting model of Cdkn1c

The imprinted gene Cdkn1c is expressed exclusively from the maternally inherited allele as a consequences of epigenetic regulation. Cdkn1c exemplifies many of the functional characteristics of imprinted genes, playing a role in foetal growth and placental development. However, Cdkn1c also plays an important role in the brain, being key to the appropriate proliferation and differentiation of midbrain dopaminergic neurons. Using a transgenic model (Cdkn1c^BACx1) with a twofold elevation in Cdkn1c expression that mimics loss‐of‐imprinting, we show that increased expression of Cdkn1c in the brain gives rise to neurobiological and behavioural changes indicative of a functionally altered dopaminergic system. Cdkn1c^BACX1 mice displayed altered expression of dopamine system‐related genes, increased tyrosine hydroxylase (Th) staining and increased tissue content of dopamine in the striatum. In addition, Cdkn1c^BACx1 animals were hypersensitive to amphetamine as showed by c‐fos expression in the nucleus accumbens. Cdkn1c^BACX1 mice had significant changes in behaviours that are dependent on the mesolimbic dopaminergic system. Specifically, increased motivation for palatable food stuffs, as indexed on a progressive ratio task. In addition, Cdkn1c^BACX1 mice displayed enhanced social dominance. These data show, for the first time, the consequence of elevated Cdkn1c expression on dopamine‐related behaviours highlighting the importance of correct dosage of this imprinted gene in the brain. This work has significant relevance for deepening our understanding of the epigenetic factors that can shape neurobiology and behaviour.

Surface-dominated conduction up to 240 K in the Kondo insulator SmB6 under strain

SmB₆ is a strongly correlated mixed-valence Kondo insulator with a newly discovered surface state, proposed to be of non-trivial topological origin. However, the surface state dominates electrical conduction only below T^∗ ≈ 4 K (ref. ), limiting its scientific investigation and device application. Here, we report the enhancement of T^∗ in SmB₆ under the application of tensile strain. With 0.7% tensile strain we report surface-dominated conduction at up to a temperature of 240 K, persisting even after the strain has been removed. This can be explained in the framework of strain-tuned temporal and spatial fluctuations of f-electron configurations, which might be generally applied to other mixed-valence materials. We note that this amount of strain can be induced in epitaxial SmB₆ films via substrate in potential device applications.

Transplantation of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Efficiently Rescues Thioacetamide-Induced Acute Liver Failure in Mice

BACKGROUND

We aimed to investigate the efficacy of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell (ADMSC) transplantation in acute liver failure caused by thioacetamide in mice as well as its underlying mechanism by comparing transplantation routes.

METHODS

ADMSCs were isolated from inguinal fat pads of enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) transgenic mice and analyzed regarding their surface markers and differentiation potential. Acute liver failure models were established by infusion of thioacetamide, and then we injected EGFP-ADMSCs or phosphate-buffered saline solution by intrasplenic or intravenous route. The restoration of biologic functions of the livers receiving transplantation was assessed by means of a variety of approaches, such as survival rates, live function parameters, histology, localization of EGFP-ADMSCs, and immunofluorescence analysis.

RESULTS

ADMSCs were positive for CD90 and CD44 and negative for CD34 and had adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation potential. And they prevented the release of liver injury biomarkers. Transplantation via tail vein provided a significant survival benefit, but no significant differences were observed in the intrasplenic pathway and between the 2 pathways in our animal experiments. Furthermore, the transplanted cells were well integrated into injured livers and produced albumin and cytokeratin-8.

CONCLUSIONS

Direct transplantation of ADMSCs is an effective treatment for acute liver failure rather than intrasplenic transplantation. The transplanted ADMSCs exhibit the potential to differentiate into hepatocyte-like cells in the injured livers. Thus, ADCMSCs would be a potential option for treatment of acute liver failure.

Presynaptic PICK1 facilitates trafficking of AMPA-receptors between active zone and synaptic vesicle pool

Previous studies have indicated that presynaptic α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionate receptors (AMPARs) contribute to the regulation of neurotransmitter release. In hippocampal synapses, the presynaptic surface expression of several AMPAR subunits, including GluA2, is regulated in a ligand-dependent manner. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the presynaptic trafficking of AMPARs are still unknown. Here, using bright-field immunocytochemistry, western blots, and quantitative immunogold electron microscopy of the hippocampal CA1 area from intact adult rat brain, we demonstrate the association of AMPA receptors with the presynaptic active zone and with small presynaptic vesicles, in Schaffer collateral synapses in CA1 of the hippocampus. Furthermore, we show that GluA2 and protein interacting with C kinase 1 (PICK1) are colocalized at presynaptic vesicles. Similar to postsynaptic mechanisms, overexpression of either PICK1 or pep2m, which inhibit the N-ethylmaleimide sensitive fusion protein (NSF)-GluA2 interaction, decreases the concentration of GluA2 in the presynaptic active zone membrane. These data suggest that the interacting proteins PICK1 and NSF act as regulators of presynaptic GluA2-containing AMPAR trafficking between the active zone and a vesicle pool that may provide the basis of presynaptic components of synaptic plasticity.

Qualitative and quantitative determination of coumarin using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy coupled with intelligent multivariate analysis

Coumarin is harmful to health but still used in cosmetics, tobacco, or illegally added into food as a spice in trace amounts so that it is exceedingly difficult to be determined accurately.

Inhibiting the cytoplasmic location of HMGB1 reverses cisplatin resistance in human cervical cancer cells

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common malignancy in women worldwide, and resistance to chemotherapy drugs is the biggest obstacle in the treatment of cervical cancers. In the present study, the molecular mechanisms underlying cisplatin resistance in human cervical cancer cells were investigated. When human cervical cancer cells were treated with 10 µg/ml of cisplatin for 24 and 48 h, high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein expression levels significantly increased in a time‑dependent manner. Comparisons between cisplatin‑sensitive HeLa cells and cisplatin‑resistant HeLa/DDP cells revealed higher levels of HMGB1 in HeLa/DDP cells than in HeLa cells. Additionally, the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value for cisplatin in HeLa/DDP cells was 5.3‑fold that in HeLa cells. Analysis of the distribution of cellular components revealed that HMGB1 translocation from the nucleus to cytoplasm contributed to cisplatin resistance. This was further confirmed by demonstration that ethyl pyruvate treatment suppressed the cytoplasmic translocation of HMGB1, resulting in inhibition of HeLa cell proliferation. Furthermore, endogenous HMGB1 was inhibited with HMGB1‑specific short hairpin (sh)RNA, and MTT assay results showed that interference with HMGB1 expression reduced cell viability and potentially reversed cisplatin resistance in HeLa cells. Transfection with HMGB1 shRNA was demonstrated to induce cell apoptosis in HeLa cells, as detected by FACS analysis. In addition, administration of recombinant HMGB1 protein in HeLa cells promoted cell autophagy, mediated by the phosphorylation of extracellular signal‑regulated kinase 1/2. Thus, cytoplasmic HMGB1 translocation and HMGB1‑induced cell autophagy are proposed to contribute to cisplatin resistance by inhibiting apoptosis of cervical cancer cells. HMGB1 could, therefore, represent a novel therapeutic target for, and a diagnostic marker of, chemotherapy resistant cervical cancers.

[Baicalein promotes the apoptosis of HeLa cells by inhibiting ERK1/2 expression]

Objective To investigate the effects of baicalein and U0126 treatment on the apoptosis of human cervical carcinoma HeLa cells and the potential mechanism. Methods HeLa cells were subjected to (1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 300) μmol/L baicalein or (1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 30) μmol/L U0126 treatment for 24 hours. The optimal concentrations of baicalein and U0126 for HeLa inhibition was determined by a cell counting Kit-8 assay. HeLa cells were then treated with these inhibitory concentrations for 24 hours separately or in combination. The cell cycle and the degree of apoptosis were analyzed by flow cytometry. The cell apoptosis index was evaluated by the TUNEL assay. The expressions of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), Bax, and Bcl-2 at the mRNA and protein levels were examined by real-time PCR and Western blotting, respectively. Results Optimal inhibitory concentrations of baicalein and U0126 for HeLa cells were 200 μmol/L and 10 μmol/L, respectively. Compared with the control group, baicalein treatment increased the growth rate of cells in the G0/G1 phase but decreased the S phase. Combination treatment of 200 μmol/L baicalein and 10 μmol/L U0126 for 24 hours further reduced the S phase growth rate. Treatment with 10 μmol/L U0126 or 200 μmol/L baicalein for 24 hours induced cell apoptosis, and the combination treatment induced more apoptosis. Treatment by baicalein alone or in combination with U0126 for 24 hours significantly decreased ERK1/2 and Bcl-2 mRNA expressions, and upregulated Bax mRNA expression. It also downregulated ERK1/2 phosphorylation and Bcl-2 protein expression, while increasing Bax protein expression. Conclusion Both baicalein and U012 appear to inhibit proliferation, induce apoptosis, and increase the growth rate in the G0/G1 phase but reduce the S phase of HeLa cells. This effect is enhanced when they are used synergistically.