Expression analyses of candidate genes related to meat quality traits in squabs from two breeds of meat-type pigeon

In this study, meat quality traits were compared between squabs from two pigeon breeds: one Chinese indigenous breed, the Shiqi (SQ) meat-type pigeon, and an imported breed, the white king (WK) meat-type pigeon. Breed differences were detected in the content of intramuscular fat (IMF) in the breast muscle. SQ squabs had significantly higher IMF content than the WK birds. The shear force value (an objective measure of meat tenderness) of SQ birds was also relatively lower than that of the WK squabs. Further analysis of fatty acids profile revealed that SQ squabs exhibited significant advantage in the synthesis of polyunsaturated fatty acids, while WK squabs were significantly higher in the sum of monounsaturated fatty acids. Breast muscle in the SQ squabs was also significantly higher in the ratio of polyunsaturated fatty acids to saturated fatty acids, as well as the sum of omega 6 fatty acids. Variability of expression levels of functional genes in relation to fat accumulation and meat tenderness was analysed by qRT-PCR. Gene expression analyses showed that the hepatic expression of LPL (lipoprotein lipase), FABP4 (fatty acid-binding protein 4), and CAPN2 (calpain-2) were significantly higher in the SQ squabs. In the breast muscle tissue, the FABP3 (fatty acid-binding protein 3) and CAPN2mRNA abundance was significantly higher in SQ squabs. Our results suggested that these differentially expressed genes might be candidate genes used in the programmes of targeted selection for squabs with higher IMF content, tender meat, and more favourable fatty acids composition.

Detection of the Single Nucleotide Polymorphism at Position rs2735940 in the Human Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Gene by the Introduction of a New Restriction Enzyme Site for the PCR-RFLP Assay

It has been shown that the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of the rs2735940 site in the human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) gene is associated with increased cancer risk. The traditional method to detect SNP genotypes is polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). However, there is a limitation to utilizing PCR-RFLP due to a lack of proper restriction enzyme sites at many polymorphic loci. This study used an improved PCR-RFLP method with a mismatched base for detection of the SNP rs2735940. A new restriction enzyme cutting site was created by created restriction site PCR (CRS-PCR), and in addition, the restriction enzyme MspI for CRS-PCR was cheaper than other enzymes. We used this novel assay to determine the allele frequencies in 552 healthy Chinese Han individuals, and found the allele frequencies to be 63% for allele C and 37% for allele T In summary, the modified PCR-RFLP can be used to detect the SNP of rs2735940 with low cost and high efficiency.

Differential expression of miR16 in glioblastoma and glioblastoma stem cells: their correlation with proliferation, differentiation, metastasis and prognosis

The function of miR16 in multiforme glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and its stem cells (GSCs) remains elusive. To this end, we investigated the patterns of miR16 expression in these cells and their correlation with malignant behaviors and clinical outcomes. The levels of miR16 and its targeted genes in tumor tissue of GBM and GBM SGH44, U87, U251 cells as well as their stem cell counterparts were measured by qRT–PCR or western blot or immunohistochemistry. Luciferase reporter assay was used to confirm the binding of miR16 to 3′-UTR of its target genes. The effects of miR16 on malignant behaviors were investigated, including tumor cell viability, soft-agar colony formation, GSCs Matrigel colony forming and migration and invasion as well as nude mice xenograft model. Differentially expression patterns of miR16 in glioblastoma cells and GSCs cells were found in this study. Changes of miR16 targeted genes, Bcl2 (B cell lymphoma 2), CDK6 (Cyclin-dependent kinase 6), CCND1 (cyclin D1), CCNE1 (cyclin E1) and SOX5 were confirmed in glioblastoma cell lines and tissue specimens. In vitro and in vivo studies showed that tumor cell proliferation was inhibited by miR16 mimic, but enhanced by miR16 inhibitor. The expression level of miR16 positively correlates with GSCs differentiation, but negatively with the abilities of migration, motility, invasion and colony formation in glioblastoma cells. The inhibitory effects of miR16 on its target genes were also found in nude mice xenograft model. Our findings revealed that the miR16 functions as a tumor suppressor in GSCs and its association with prognosis in GBM.

Effects of Moringa oleifera leaves as a substitute for alfalfa meal on nutrient digestibility, growth performance, carcass trait, meat quality, antioxidant capacity and biochemical parameters of rabbits

This contribution reports the effects of Moringa oleifera leaves (MOLs) meal on the growth performances, nutrient digestibility, carcass trait, meat quality, antioxidant capacity and biochemical parameters of growing New Zealand white rabbits. The MOL was substituted for alfalfa meal at levels of 0, 10%, 20% and 30% to obtain respective diets MOL0, MOL10, MOL20 and MOL30. Each treatment was replicated five times with 10 rabbits per replicate. Results showed the average daily weight gain (ADWG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of rabbits fed MOL20 diet were significantly better (p < 0.05) than those of other three dietary groups. Liver and spleen index of rabbits fed MOL20 and MOL30 diets was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of the groups fed with lower M. oleifera leaves (MOL0, MOL10). The meat drip loss of rabbits fed with diet MOL10 was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than that of rabbits fed other diets. All rabbits fed MOL dietary groups had lower (p < 0.05) shear force of longissimus dorsi than the group without M. oleifera leaves. No significant differences were found in the digestibility of crude fibre (CF), crude fat (EE), ash, crude protein (CP) and nitrogen-free extract (NFE) among the dietary groups. Moringa oleifera leaves also have a significant impact on serum albumin (ALB), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC), triiodothyroxine (T₃ ) and tetraiodothyroxine (T₄ ) values and the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in serum and liver. The results indicated that M. oleifera leaves could be developed as a good feed source, and it not only could substitute for alfalfa meal well but also has a significant effect on growth performance, meat quality, antioxidant and biochemical parameters of rabbits.

Curcumin alleviates lumbar radiculopathy by reducing neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and nociceptive factors

Current non-surgical treatments for lumbar radiculopathy [e.g. epidural steroids and Tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) antagonists] are neither effective nor safe. As a non-toxic natural product, curcumin possesses an exceptional anti-inflammatory profile. We hypothesised that curcumin alleviates lumbar radiculopathy by attenuating neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and nociceptive factors. In a dorsal root ganglion (DRG) culture, curcumin effectively inhibited TNF-α-induced neuroinflammation, in a dose-dependent manner, as shown by mRNA and protein expression of IL-6 and COX-2. Such effects might be mediated via protein kinase B (AKT) and extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) pathways. Also, a similar effect in combating TNF-α-induced neuroinflammation was observed in isolated primary neurons. In addition, curcumin protected neurons from TNF-α-triggered excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and cellular apoptosis and, accordingly, promoted mRNA expression of the anti-oxidative enzymes haem oxygenase-1, catalase and superoxide dismutase-2. Intriguingly, electronic von Frey test suggested that intraperitoneal injection of curcumin significantly abolished ipsilateral hyperalgesia secondary to disc herniation in mice, for up to 2 weeks post-surgery. Such in vivo pain alleviation could be attributed to the suppression, observed in DRG explant culture, of TNF-α-elicited neuropeptides, such as substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide. Surprisingly, micro-computed tomography (μCT) data suggested that curcumin treatment could promote disc height recovery following disc herniation. Alcian blue/picrosirius red staining confirmed that systemic curcumin administration promoted regeneration of extracellular matrix proteins, visualised by presence of abundant newly-formed collagen and proteoglycan content in herniated disc. Our study provided pre-clinical evidence for expediting this natural, non-toxic pleiotropic agent to become a new and safe clinical treatment of radiculopathy.

Leptin levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus inversely correlate with regulatory T cell frequency

Leptin levels are increased in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) but little is known on how this correlates with several disease characteristics including the frequency of regulatory T cells (Tregs). Here we compared serum leptin levels with frequency of circulating Tregs in 47 lupus patients vs. 25 healthy matched controls. Correlations with lupus disease activity were also analyzed, as well as Treg proliferation potential. It was found that leptin was remarkably increased in SLE patients as compared to controls, particularly in SLE patients with moderate and severe active SLE, and the increase correlated with disease activity. Importantly, increased leptin in lupus patients inversely correlated with the frequency of Tregs but not in controls, and leptin neutralization resulted in the expansion of Tregs ex vivo. Thus, hyperleptinemia in lupus patients correlates directly with disease activity and inversely with Treg frequency. The finding that leptin inhibition expands Tregs in SLE suggests possible inhibition of this molecule for an enhanced Treg function in the disease.

Application of CRS-PCR-RFLP to identify CYP1A1 gene polymorphism

BACKGROUND

Cytochrome P4501A1 (CYP1A1) is a member of the cytochrome P450 gene family and plays an important role in the metabolism of exogenous and endogenous material. In recent research, it has been shown that its genetic polymorphisms are associated with many diseases. But the isoschizomers such as the BsrDI enzyme required for the detection of this polymorphism are expensive.

METHODS

The study used an improved PCR-RFLP method with mismatched base for detection of the single-nucleotide polymorphism rs1048943. A new restriction enzyme cutting site was created by created restriction site PCR (CRS-PCR), and the restriction enzyme StyI for RFLP was cheaper than other enzymes. A total of 320 samples from Han Chinese were tested to evaluate this novel method. The PCR results were confirmed by DNA sequencing.

RESULTS

After detecting 320 Chinese Han individuals, the genotype frequencies were 63.74% for AA, 31.54% for AG, and 4.72% for GG. The allelic frequencies were 75.48% for A and 24.52% for G. The x² test showed the genotype and allele frequencies of CYP1A1 do not deviate from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, and the sequences of amplified products were consistent with the one published in GenBank with the exception of mismatched base.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on PCR with mismatched primers we designed, the CYP1A1 polymorphism could be identified effectively with low cost.

[Application of COⅠ Gene Mini-barcoding in Species Identification of Hair]

OBJECTIVES

To identify the species of mammalian hair using COⅠ gene mini-barcoding technology.

METHODS

A pair of universal primers for mammalian COⅠ gene mini-barcoding were designed. The hair DNA samples of experimental animals from 11 species in 5 orders, mammalia was amplified by PCR technology with universal primers, and the PCR products were sequenced by bi-directional DNA and after the sequences splicing the results were deposited into the BOLD database to perform the homology comparison.

RESULTS

The DNA of hair from all experiment animal species could be totally amplified by the mini-barcoding universal primers designed in this study. The length of amplified fragment was 147 bp. The result of homology comparison in the database showed that the closest matching species were consistent with the experiment animal species. In addition to the matching degree of Panthera leo （98.99%）, all homology matching degree of the other experiment animals were 100%, and the intraspecific genetic distance of Panthera leo was 1%. The interspecific genetic distance was ten times more than the intraspecific genetic distance which could be used for species identification.

CONCLUSIONS

The COⅠ gene mini-barcode technology is established and can provide fast and accurate species identification for hair of mammals.

Changed Morphology and Mechanical Properties of Cancellous Bone in the Mandibular Condyles of Edentate People

Since edentate subjects have a reduced masticatory function, it can be expected that the morphology of the cancellous bone of their mandibular condyles has changed according to the altered mechanical environment. In the present study, the morphology of cylindrical cancellous bone specimens of the mandibular condyles of edentate subjects (n = 25) was compared with that of dentate subjects (n = 24) by means of micro-computed tomography and by the application of Archimedes’ principle. Stiffness and strength were determined by destructive mechanical testing. Compared with dentate subjects, it appeared that, in edentate subjects, the bone was less dense and the trabecular structure was less plate-like. The regression models of stiffness and strength built from bone volume fraction and the trabecular orientation relative to the axis of the specimen were similar for both dentate and edentate subjects. This indicates that, under reduced mechanical load, the fundamental relationship between bone morphology and mechanical properties does not change.

[Application of Multiple Displacement Amplification in Samples with Inhibitors]

OBJECTIVES

To explore the ability of inhibition resistibility of multiple displacement amplification （MDA） in samples with inhibitors. To explain the application and value of MDA in forensic medicine by comparing with using magnetic beads methods （MBM） to purify sample.

METHODS

Different concentrations of hemoglobin and humid acid （HA） mixed with DNA samples and then divided the samples into MDA group, MBM group and control group. D3S1358 locus was amplified and detected by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis detection system and AmpFℓSTR® Identifiler™ Plus Kit-capillary electrophoresis detection system.

RESULTS

When hemoglobin concentrations exceed 1 ng/μL or HA concentrations exceed 0.1 ng/μL, amplification products could not be obtained by single-locus system in control group. When hemoglobin concentration exceeds 100 ng/μL or HA concentrations exceed 1 ng/μL, the samples could not be amplified by MBM. Inhibitors in different concentrations were amplified successfully in MDA group without any influence from inhibitors.

CONCLUSIONS

MDA has the capability to remove the inhibition of hemoglobin and HA, which is better than MBM and has a certain value in forensic practices.

Expression and distribution of SP and its NK1 receptor in the brain-gut axis in neonatal maternally separated rat model with visceral hypersensitivity

Neurokinin-1 receptor (NK1R) is a high affinity Substance P (SP) receptor and plays a key role in visceral hypersensitivity in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Early life stress is a significant risk factor in IBS. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of neonatal maternal separation on the expression and distribution of SP and its receptor along the brain-gut axis in a neonatal maternally separated rat model with visceral hypersensitivity. Male neonatal Sprague-Dawley rats, 2-21-day old, were randomly distributed into maternal separation groups of 3 h daily maternal separation (MS) or non-handling (NH). These rats underwent colorectal balloon distention (CRD) upon reaching adulthood. Immunofluorescence was used to examine the distal colon, lumbosacral spinal cord, and the brainstem to semi-quantitatively determine SP and NK1R expression before and after CRD. The following features were assessed: percentage SP-positive area in colonic muscle layer, the number of NK1R-positive myenteric plexus, SP-positive area and NK1-positivity score in the dorsal horn and the brainstem. Neither of these was altered in the MS and NH groups before or after CRD. These results suggest that the SP system might play little role in the development of visceral hyperalgesia in the neonatal maternal separation rat model.

Testosterone replacement therapy improves health-related quality of life for patients with late-onset hypogonadism: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Although testosterone replacement therapy can restore serum testosterone concentrations to normal level in late-onset hypogonadism patients, whether it can improve patients' quality of life remains uncertain. Therefore, we perform a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on this issue. Five randomized controlled trials total 1,212 patients were included. Fixed-effect model was used to calculate the weighted mean difference of score of Aging Males' Symptom rating scale. Our result reveals that testosterone replacement therapy improves patients' health-related quality of life in terms of the decrease in the AMS total score [WMD = -2.96 (-4.21, -1.71), p < .00001] and the psychological [WMD = -0.89 (-1.41, -0.37), p = .0008], somatic [WMD = -0.89 (-1.41, -0.37), p = .0008] and sexual [WMD = -1.29 (-1.75, -0.83), p < .00001] subscale score.

Association of single nucleotide polymorphisms in UBR2 gene with idiopathic aspermia or oligospermia in Sichuan, China

The associations between three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; rs3749897, rs16895863 and rs373341) of UBR2 gene and idiopathic aspermia or oligospermia were investigated in this study by a case-control experiment with 149 fertile and 316 infertile men, including 244 patients with idiopathic aspermia and 72 patients with severe oligospermia. The time-of-flight mass spectrometry (Sequenom MassARRAY^®  system) was used in this study. A significant difference between the oligospermia men (oligospermia group) and the fertile men (control group) was observed in this research (odds ratio [OR]: 2.764; 95% CI: 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.171-6.525; P = 0.017), which could indicate that the combined AT-TC-CC genotype in the UBR2 gene (rs16895863, rs373341, rs3749897 respectively) is a possible risk of idiopathic oligospermia for men in Sichuan, China.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase II study to assess the efficacy and safety of mapatumumab with sorafenib in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase II study evaluated the efficacy and safety of mapatumumab (a human agonistic monoclonal antibody against tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand receptor 1) in combination with sorafenib in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with advanced HCC (stratified by Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status) were randomized 1:1 to receive sorafenib (400 mg, twice daily per 21-day cycle) and either placebo (placebo-sorafenib arm) or mapatumumab (30 mg/kg on day 1 per 21-day cycle; mapatumumab-sorafenib arm). The primary end point was time to (radiologic) progression (TTP), assessed by blinded independent central review. Key secondary end points included progression-free survival, overall survival, and objective response.

RESULTS

In total, 101 patients were randomized (placebo-sorafenib arm: N = 51; mapatumumab-sorafenib arm: N = 50). There was no significant difference in median TTP between both arms [5.6 versus 4.1 months, respectively; adjusted hazard ratio (one-sided 90% confidence interval) 1.192 (0-1.737)]. No mapatumumab-related benefit was identified when TTP was evaluated in the stratified subgroups. The addition of mapatumumab to sorafenib did not demonstrate improvement in the secondary efficacy end points. The reported frequency of adverse events (AEs) and serious AEs was comparable in both treatment arms.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of mapatumumab to sorafenib did not improve TTP or other efficacy end points, nor did it substantially change the toxicity profile of sorafenib in patients with advanced HCC. Based on these results, further development of the combination of mapatumumab and sorafenib in HCC is not planned.

High-volume hemofiltration combined with early goal-directed therapy improves alveolar-arterial oxygen exchange in patients with refractory septic shock

OBJECTIVE

This study is to evaluate the effect of high-volume hemofiltration (HVHF) and early goal-directed therapy (EGDT) on alveolar-arterial oxygen exchange in patients with refractory septic shock.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients were classified into two groups by a prospective cohort study: 86 received both HVHF and EGDT (the HVHF group), and 81 treated with EGDT only (the control group). Alveolar-arterial oxygen pressure was taken at baseline and at days 1, 3, and 7, and respiratory index (RI, ratio of P(a)O2 alveolar-arterial oxygen pressure difference (P(A-a)DO2) to arterial oxygen pressure (P(a)O2) was calculated.

RESULTS

At day 7, the levels of central venous and arterial blood oxygen content were significantly higher in the HVHF vs. the control group (both with p < 0.05). The level of oxygen extraction ratio (O2ER) was significantly higher in the HVHF than the control group (p < 0.01). The levels of P(A-a)DO2 and RI were significantly lower in the HVHF than the control group (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). RI and the ratio of P(a)O2 to the fraction of inspired oxygen were significantly higher in the HVHF than the control group (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). The acute physiology and chronic health evaluation score and the sequential organ failure assessment score in the HVHF group were significantly lower compared to the control group (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). At day 28, the mortality rate was lower in the HVHF vs. the control group (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings demonstrated that HVHF, when used as an adjunctive therapy to the EGDP protocol, could improve alveolar-arterial oxygen exchange, clinical outcome and survival in patients with refractory septic shock.

The role of the P2X7 receptor on bone loss in a mouse model of inflammation-mediated osteoporosis

In inflammatory autoimmune diseases, bone loss is frequent. In most cases, secondary osteoporosis is caused by treatment with systemic glucocorticoid. However, the pathogenesis behind the bone loss is presumed multifactorial. We aimed to elucidate the role of the P2X7 receptor on bone mineral density (BMD), microarchitecture, and bone strength in a standardized mouse model of inflammation-mediated osteoporosis (IMO). In total 146 mice completed our protocol, 70 wild type (WT) mice and 76 P2X7 -/- (knockout, KO). BMD at the femur and spine decreased significantly from baseline to day 20 in the WT IMO mice (p < 0.01). In the WT vehicle, KO vehicle and KO IMO, no significant BMD changes were found. Bone strength showed a lower mid-shaft max strength (p = 0.038) and also a non-significant trend towards lower strength at the femoral neck of the WT IMO group. Trabecular bone volume fraction (BV/TV) and connectivity density (CD) after 20 days were significantly decreased in the WT IMO group (p = 0.001). In contrast, the WT vehicle and KO vehicle, BV/TV and CD did no change at 20 days. Cortical bone revealed no significant microarchitectural changes after 20 days in the WT IMO group, whereas the total cortical area increased significantly in WT vehicle and KO IMO after 20 days (5.2% and 8.8%, respectively). In conclusion, the P2X7 receptor KO mice did not respond to inflammation with loss of BMD whereas the WT mice had a significant loss of BMD, bone strength and trabecular microarchitecture, demonstrating a role for the P2X7 receptor in inflammatory bone loss.

Combination of multiple gene markers to detect circulating tumor cells in the peripheral blood of patients with non-small cell lung cancer using real-time PCR

Our study aims to determine the clinical significance of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT), S-phase kinase-associated protein 2 (Skp2) and thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF-1) mRNA expressions in peripheral blood (PB) of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to investigate the gene expressions of hTERT, Skp2, TTF-1 as in the PB of 60 patients with NSCLC and 20 benign lung diseases. Statistical analyses were performed to examine the correlation between the expression of these mRNA markers and the clinical pathological features of NSCLC. We found that hTERT, Skp2, and TTF-1 were overexpressed in the PB of NSCLC patients, and demonstrated high specificity as well as sensitivity when used for NSCLC diagnosis. Significant correlation was observed between disease stage and the three markers (P < 0.05). This study suggests that the genes hTERT, Skp2, and TTF-1 play important roles in tumor genesis and development, and can be used as diagnosis markers in NSCLC patients. The expression of three markers in combination can significantly improve the sensitivity and accuracy of diagnosis relative to single marker diagnosis, and provides a reliable method to detect CTCs in the PB. Additionally, these markers can also be used as diagnostic markers for clinical stages of NSCLC.

The influence of high volume hemofiltration on extra vascular lung water and alveolar-arterial oxygen pressure difference in patients with severe sepsis

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effects of high-volume hemofiltration (HVHF) on the plasma interleukin-6 (IL-6), pro-calcitonin (PCT), extra vascular lung water index (EVLWI) and alveolar-arterial oxygen exchange in patients with septic shock.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

97 cases intensive patients with septic shock were enrolled  from Department of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University between January 2011 and December 2014. According to the puting into practice of high-volume hemofiltration (HVHF) or not, all the patients were divided in two groups (NHVHF group, group A, n = 46 cases) and (HVHF group, group B, n = 51 cases). The plasma IL-6, PCT intrathoracic blood volume index (ITBVI), extra-vascular lung water index (EVLWI) and pulmonary vascular permeability index(PVPI) was detected before treatment and after treatment 24h, 72h The Alveolar- arterial oxygen pressure difference P(A-a)DO2 was checked by arterial blood gas analysis (ABGA) at first and after treatment 24 hour, 72 hour, 7 day in two groups. The mortality at 28 day was compared between two groups.

RESULTS

After 72h treatment, the plasma IL-6, PCT in group B has a significant decrease. After 72h treatment, the level ITBVI, EVLWI and PVPI in group B had a significant improvement. The levels of P(A-a)DO2 in HVHF group were reduced more significantly than N-HVHF group after 7 day. The EVLWI and P(A-a)DO2 had a significant positive correlation (correlation ratio = 0.712, 95% confident interval [0.617, 0.773], p = 0.001). The mortality at 28 day had a significant decrease between groups (15.22% vs. 34.15% χ2 = 4.242, p = 0.038).

CONCLUSIONS

HVHF could decrease plasma inflammatory factors and EVLWI so that it could improve the levels of alveolar-arterial-oxygen exchange in patients with septic shock, so it could improve the survival rate of patients.

Molecular Activation of Activator Protein-1 In Silica and Asbestos-Induced Carcinogenesis

Occupational exposures to asbestos and crystalline silica have been implicated in causing lung cancer and other pulmonary diseases in humans. Despite intensive research during the last decade on pulmonary carcinogenesis induced by these minerals, the exact molecular mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis are still unknown. Chronic inflammation and enhanced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by these particulates have been implicated in the development of tumors. In an attempt to understand the molecular basis of carcinogenesis induced by these particles, we investigated the potential activation of activator protein-1 (AP-1) by crocidolite and freshly fractured or aged crystalline silica in a JB6 P(+) cell line stably transfected with AP-1-luciferase reporter plasmid (in vitro) and in AP-1-luciferase reporter transgenic mice (in vivo). This transcription factor governs the expression of target genes that are involved in encoding cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, cell adhesion molecules, and acute-phase proteins that regulate inflammation, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. Results of our studies suggest that asbestos and silica activate AP-1 through generation of ROS. In in vitro studies, crocidolite asbestos caused a dose- and time-dependent AP-1 activation in JB6+ cells, which persisted for at least 72 h. In transgenic mice exposed to crocidolite asbestos, AP-1 activation increased significantly by 10-fold in lung tissue and 22-fold in bronchial tissue. This induction of AP-1 activation by crocidolite appears to be mediated through the influence of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family members, specifically extracellular signal-regulating protein kinase, ERK 1, and ERK 2 (data not presented). Similarly, freshly fractured silica caused an 8-fold increase in AP-1 activation in JB6 P+cells and 22-fold increase in transgenic mice. The activation of AP-1 by freshly fractured silica was mediated through ERK1, ERK2, and p38 kinase. Activation of AP-1 by asbestos or silica was inhibited in both in vitro and in vivo systems by aspirin, which exhibits OH radical scavenging properties. It is proposed from these studies that asbestos and crystalline silica may promote carcinogenesis through specific mechanistic pathways stimulated by ROS.

Theta-rhythmic drive between medial septum and hippocampus in slow-wave sleep and microarousal: a Granger causality analysis

Medial septum (MS) plays a critical role in controlling the electrical activity of the hippocampus (HIPP). In particular, theta-rhythmic burst firing of MS neurons is thought to drive lasting HIPP theta oscillations in rats during waking motor activity and REM sleep. Less is known about MS-HIPP interactions in nontheta states such as non-REM sleep, in which HIPP theta oscillations are absent but theta-rhythmic burst firing in subsets of MS neurons is preserved. The present study used Granger causality (GC) to examine the interaction patterns between MS and HIPP in slow-wave sleep (SWS, a nontheta state) and during its short interruptions called microarousals (a transient theta state). We found that during SWS, while GC revealed a unidirectional MS→HIPP influence over a wide frequency band (2-12 Hz, maximum: ∼8 Hz), there was no theta peak in the hippocampal power spectra, indicating a lack of theta activity in HIPP. In contrast, during microarousals, theta peaks were seen in both MS and HIPP power spectra and were accompanied by bidirectional GC with MS→HIPP and HIPP→MS theta drives being of equal magnitude. Thus GC in a nontheta state (SWS) vs. a theta state (microarousal) primarily differed in the level of HIPP→MS. The present findings suggest a modification of our understanding of the role of MS as the theta generator in two regards. First, a MS→HIPP theta drive does not necessarily induce theta field oscillations in the hippocampus, as found in SWS. Second, HIPP theta oscillations entail bidirectional theta-rhythmic interactions between MS and HIPP.

Improved Measurement of the π→eν Branching Ratio

A new measurement of the branching ratio R_{e/μ}=Γ(π^{+}→e^{+}ν+π^{+}→e^{+}νγ)/Γ(π^{+}→μ^{+}ν+π^{+}→μ^{+}νγ) resulted in R_{e/μ}^{exp}=[1.2344±0.0023(stat)±0.0019(syst)]×10^{-4}. This is in agreement with the standard model prediction and improves the test of electron-muon universality to the level of 0.1%.

MicroRNA profiling in cutaneous wounds of diabetic rats

Despite years of effort, current therapies for diabetic wounds are still not fully efficacious. Emerging evidence has suggested that microRNAs (miRNAs) play key roles in multiple physiological and pathological processes in eukaryotes, and could potentially be powerful therapeutic tools. This study investigated the differential expression profiling of miRNAs in cutaneous wounds in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats and normal rats, and its significance in diabetic wound healing. Using microarrays, 18 miRNAs were identified as being upregulated and 65 as being downregulated in the diabetic group. The miRNA profiling results were validated by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Finally, functional annotation analysis using the DAVID and miR2Subpath databases revealed that the differentially expressed miRNAs were involved in MAPK signaling pathways, the Wnt signaling pathway, and other signaling pathways that may be closely linked to wound healing. This study provides an experimental foundation for further investigation of mechanisms that underlie poor diabetic wound healing, and of miRNA-based therapies that are associated with wound healing.

Pharmacogenetics of obesity drug therapy

As the prevalence and severity of obesity and its complications have risen significantly in worldwide populations, behavioral interventions alone have been inconsistent in promoting sufficient, sustained weight loss. Consequently, there has been intense interest in the development of anti-obesity medications as treatment strategies. When coupled with structured lifestyle modifications, pharmacotherapy can enhance weight loss. While less efficacious than bariatric surgery, drug therapy may be an alternative to surgery for some obese patients, and is an emerging strategy for weight maintenance. The goal of pharmacogenetics is to help identify patients who will benefit most from drug therapies while minimizing the risk of adverse effects. In this review, we summarize the pharmacogenetic literature on obesity drugs of the past (sibutramine, rimonabant), present (orlistat, lorcaserin, phentermine, topiramate), and future (buprioprion/naltrexone).

Polymorphism analysis of the intron one of insulin-like growth factor 2 receptor gene (IGF2R) in FFRC strain common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) and its relationship with growth performance

The insulin-like growth factor 2 receptor gene (IGF2R) encodes a transmembrane protein receptor and acts to sequester and degrade excess circulating insulin-like growth factor 2, which is critical for normal mammalian growth and development. Thus, IGF2R may serve as a candidate gene underlying growth trait in the common carp. In this study, we isolated the intron one of common carp IGF2R and detected the diversity in 3 continuous generations of FFRC strain common carp. A total of 8 loci were detected within this region, which were named in accordance with their location (i.e., Loc84, Loc106, Loc119, Loc130, Loc145, Loc163, Loc167, and Loc265). Loc106, Loc119, and Loc145 were moderately polymorphic; while Loc84, Loc130, Loc163, Loc167, and Loc265 exhibited slight level of polymorphism. However, significant differences between polymorphism information content values were not observed among the different generations. For Loc145, all generations deviated from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The total number of significant linkage disequilibria for all generations equaled 40. Among them, 4 pairs were detected in each population, while 8 pairs were found in the 2nd and 3rd generations. For Loc130, the G/T genotype exhibited higher body weight when compared to that of the G/G genotype. The frequency of the homozygous G/G genotype reached 87.96%; thus, we can improve FFRC strain common carp growth performance by increasing the percentage of the G/T genotype within a breeding population. Therefore, the G/T genotype could be used as a molecular marker for superior growth traits.

Surface complexation modeling of americium sorption onto volcanic tuff

Results of a surface complexation model (SCM) for americium sorption on volcanic rocks (devitrified and zeolitic tuff) are presented. The model was developed using PHREEQC and based on laboratory data for americium sorption on quartz. Available data for sorption of americium on quartz as a function of pH in dilute groundwater can be modeled with two surface reactions involving an americium sulfate and an americium carbonate complex. It was assumed in applying the model to volcanic rocks from Yucca Mountain, that the surface properties of volcanic rocks can be represented by a quartz surface. Using groundwaters compositionally representative of Yucca Mountain, americium sorption distribution coefficient (Kd, L/Kg) values were calculated as function of pH. These Kd values are close to the experimentally determined Kd values for americium sorption on volcanic rocks, decreasing with increasing pH in the pH range from 7 to 9. The surface complexation constants, derived in this study, allow prediction of sorption of americium in a natural complex system, taking into account the inherent uncertainty associated with geochemical conditions that occur along transport pathways.

Long-term outcomes after nucleos(t)ide analogue discontinuation in HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B patients

Nucleos(t)ide analogue (NUC) resistance is an important clinical risk resulting from long-term therapy in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) management. Discontinuation of NUCs is a feasible strategy to reduce resistance. We aimed to observe the outcomes after NUC withdrawal in HBeAg-positive CHB patients. A total of 97 patients (11 patients with HBsAg loss and 86 patients with sustained HBeAg seroconversion) were enrolled. HBV DNA levels and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were monitored regularly after discontinuation. Relapse was defined as HBV DNA levels >2000 IU/mL in at least two determinations more than 4 weeks apart. HBeAg seroconversion was achieved within 48 weeks (interquartile range (IQR), 24-72 weeks). The time on consolidation therapy was 96 weeks (IQR, 84-144 weeks). No relapses occurred for HBsAg loss patients. Evidence of relapse was observed in 9.3% of HBeAg seroconversion patients. All relapse cases occurred within 48 weeks after discontinuation. The time to relapse was 33 ± 15 weeks. Elevation of HBV DNA and ALT levels over baseline were only observed in 12.5% of relapse patients. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics (sex, HBV genotype, age or ALT levels) or time on consolidation therapy between patients with relapse or sustained response. NUC discontinuation in HBeAg-positive CHB patients is feasible after achieving HBeAg seroconversion at a minimum of 24 weeks. There is further benefit to prolonging the time on consolidation therapy to reduce relapse. More than 48 weeks of sustained response is a predictive marker for long-term sustained response.

Relationship between genetic polymorphisms in the DRD5 gene and paranoid schizophrenia in northern Han Chinese

Dopamine (DA) has been implicated in the pathophysiol-ogy of several psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia. Thus, genes related to the dopaminergic (DAergic) system are good candidate genes for schizophrenia. One of receptors of the DA receptor system is dopa-mine receptor 5 (DRD5). Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the regulatory regions of DRD5 gene may affect gene expression, influence biosynthesis of DA and underlie various neuropsychiatric disorders re-lated to DA dysfunction. The present study explored the association of SNPs within the DRD5 gene with paranoid schizophrenia in Han Chinese. A total of 176 patients with schizophrenia and 206 healthy controls were genotyped for four DRD5 SNPs (rs77434921, rs2076907, rs6283, and rs1800762). Significant group differences were observed in the allele and genotype frequencies of rs77434921 and rs1800762 and in the frequen-cies of GC haplotypes corresponding to rs77434921-rs1800762. Our find-ings suggest that common genetic variations of DRD5 are likely to con-tribute to genetic susceptibility to paranoid schizophrenia in Han Chinese. Further studies in larger samples are needed to replicate this association.

TPH2 gene polymorphisms in the regulatory region are associated with paranoid schizophrenia in Northern Han Chinese

In the last years, serotonin (5-HT) has been related with the pathophysiology of several psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia. Thus, genes related to the serotonergic (5-HTergic) system are good candidate genes for schizophrenia. The rate-limiting enzyme of 5-HT synthesis is tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2). Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the regulatory regions of TPH2 gene may affect gene expression and biosynthesis of 5-HT triggering to various neuropsychiatric disorders related to 5-HT dysfunction. The present study explored the association of SNPs within the TPH2 gene with paranoid schizophrenia in Han Chinese. A total of 164 patients with schizophrenia and 244 healthy controls were genotyped for six TPH2 SNPs (rs4570625, rs11178997, rs11178998, rs41317118, rs17110747, and rs41317114). Significant group differences were observed in the allele and genotype frequencies of rs4570625 and in the frequencies of GTA and TTA haplotypes corresponding to rs4570625-rs11178997-rs11178998. Our findings suggest that common genetic variations of TPH2 are likely to contribute to genetic susceptibility to paranoid schizophrenia in Han Chinese. Further studies in larger samples are needed to replicate this association.

Recombinant human endostatin combined with radiotherapy in the treatment of brain metastases of non-small cell lung cancer

OBJECTIVE

Since brain metastases (BM) is often accompanied by edema, and endostatin (ES) can prevent tumor tissue edema, we investigated the therapeutic effects of ES combined with radiotherapy in the treatment of BM of NSCLC. We also determined the patients who are suitable for this therapy.

METHODS

Eighty patients with BM of NSCLC were randomly divided into combination group and radiotherapy alone group. The primary endpoint was overall response rate, and secondary endpoints were overall survival time, cerebral edema index and adverse reactions. These were observed and the expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) protein and KDR gene in primary lesions were detected with immunohistochemical method and fluorescence in situ hybridization.

RESULTS

Compared with radiotherapy alone, brain edema was significantly reduced in the ES group (P = 0.003) without marked adverse reactions. For the overall response rate, there was no statistical significant difference between the two groups (control, 90 % vs. ES, 75 %, P = 0.07), but there was statistical significance in the patients with positive VEGFR2 (93 vs. 67.7 %, P = 0.012) or positive KDR gene (94.4 vs. 47.3 %, P = 0.002). In overall survival time, there was no statistical significance in the two groups (P = 0.35), in the tumors with positive VEGFR2 (P = 0.109) or with positive KDR gene (P = 0.147).

CONCLUSION

Compared with radiotherapy alone, ES combined with radiotherapy can reduce brain edema in NSCLC patients with BM and obtain better short-term response rate in tumors with positive VEGFR2 or positive KDR gene, but does not improve the overall survival.

Changes in phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase 55 kDa gamma expression and subcellular localization may be caspase 6 dependent in paraquat-induced SH-SY5Y apoptosis

The neurotoxin paraquat (PQ) causes apoptosis of dopaminergic neurons in mammalian cell culture and animal models, mimicking an important pathological feature of Parkinson's disease (PD). The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway is critical for several major survival signals in central nervous system neurons. Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase 55 kDa gamma (p55PIK) is a regulatory subunit of PI3Ks with important roles in cell proliferation, antiapoptosis, and cell cycle progression. However, p55PIK involvement in mechanisms regarding progression and maintenance of neurodegenerative diseases is largely undetermined. We used PQ-induced apoptosis in human dopaminergic SH-SY5Y cells to investigate the association between p55PIK expression levels, subcellular location, and apoptosis. p55PIK expression was reduced in SH-SY5Y cells and p55PIK messenger RNA and protein expression levels were decreased after PQ treatment. Apoptosis induced by PQ was associated with caspase activation and decreased p55PIK expression. Restoration of p55PIK expression was observed after coincubation with a caspase inhibitor. Overexpressed full-length p55PIK in SH-SY5Y and human embryonic kidney 293 cells showed specific distribution in the nucleus and was cleaved in vitro by recombinant caspase 6 (C6), but not C3 and C7. A p55PIK construct lacking 24 N-terminal amino acids (N24) was tested for the presence of a potential C6-recognizable sequence and was found to express its proteins outside the nucleus. The results suggest that p55PIK may be involved in PQ-induced apoptosis signal transduction and that N24 is crucial for p55PIK subcellular localization. Thus, p55PIK could be a substrate of activated C6 during apoptosis, leading to loss of original biological functions and redistribution to disturb cell cycle progression.

Quality of root fillings performed with two root filling techniques. An in vitro study using micro-CT

Objective.

The aim of this study was to compare the presence of voids in root fillings performed in oval and ribbon-shaped canals with two root filling techniques, lateral compaction technique (LCT) or hybrid technique (HT), a combination of a gutta-percha masterpoint and thermoplastic gutta-percha. Furthermore, the obturation time for the two techniques was evaluated.

Materials and methods.

Sixty-seven roots with oval and ribbon-shaped canals were prepared using Profile Ni-Ti rotary files. After preparation, the roots were randomly allocated to two groups according to root filling technique. All roots were filled with AH plus and gutta-percha. Group 1 was filled using LCT (n = 34) and group 2 was filled using HT (n = 33). The obturation time was measured in 30 cases evenly distributed between the two techniques. Voids in relation to the root canal fillings were assessed using cross-section images from Micro-computed Tomography scans.

Results.

All root canal fillings had voids. Permutation test showed no statistically significant difference between the two root filling techniques in relation to presence of voids (p = 0.092). A statistically significant difference in obturation time between the two techniques was found (p < 0.001).

Conclusion.

The present study found no statistically significant difference in percentage of voids between two root filling techniques. A 40% reduction in obturation time was found for the HT compared to the LCT.

Early micromovement of the Articular Surface Replacement (ASR) femoral component: two-year radiostereometry results

Radiostereometric analysis (RSA) can detect early micromovement in unstable implant designs which are likely subsequently to have a high failure rate. In 2010, the Articular Surface Replacement (ASR) was withdrawn because of a high failure rate. In 19 ASR femoral components, the mean micromovement over the first two years after implantation was 0.107 mm (SD 0.513) laterally, 0.055 mm (SD 0.204) distally and 0.150 mm (SD 0.413) anteriorly. The mean backward tilt around the x-axis was -0.08° (SD 1.088), mean internal rotation was 0.165° (SD 0.924) and mean varus tilt 0.238° (SD 0.420). The baseline to two-year varus tilt was statistically significant from zero movement, but there was no significant movement from one year onwards. We conclude that the ASR femoral component achieves initial stability and that early migration is not the mode of failure for this resurfacing arthroplasty.

Associations between Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Gene Polymorphisms and Susceptibility to Acute Mountain Sickness

Objective:

This study investigated associations between polymorphisms in the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene and susceptibility to acute mountain sickness.

Methods:

Two hundred Han Chinese soldiers who developed acute mountain sickness after rapidly ascending to an altitude of < 3600 m and 200 control soldiers (who did not develop the condition) were enrolled in the study. Twelve single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the VEGF gene were genotyped in all the study participants. Plasma VEGF concentrations were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 40 subjects with acute mountain sickness and 40 controls before and after exposure to high altitude.

Results:

The frequencies of the rs3025039 genotype and allele were significantly different between the groups. Two SNPs, rs3025039 (which involves a C→T allele variation at position 936 in the 3′ untranslated region) and rs3025030 (which involves a G→C allele variation in the intronic sequence), were associated with a decreased risk of acute mountain sickness.

Conclusion:

The SNPs rs3025039 and rs3025030 of the VEGF gene may be associated with a decreased risk of acute mountain sickness development.

Human papillomavirus type-16 DNA integration in nuclear matrix and chromosome scaffold associated DNA in a cervical-carcinoma cell-line

MARs (matrix attachment region) and SARs (scaffold attachment region) are fragments of DNA that associated with nuclear matrix and chromosome scaffold even after extensive removal of most of the nuclear proteins and chromatin. The present study showed the association of human papillomavirus type 16 DNA with these fragments by polymerase chain reaction in a cervical carcinoma cell line, CC3/CUHK3. This finding proposed an alternative evidence for the elevated transcription rate of the viral genome in transformed cells as nuclear matrix has been proposed to be sites of DNA replication and transcription.

The effect of topiramate plasma concentration on linguistic behavior, verbal recall and working memory

This is the first study of the effect of topiramate on linguistic behavior and verbal recall using a computational linguistics system for automated language and speech analysis to detect and quantify drug-induced changes in speech recorded during discourse-level tasks. Healthy volunteers were administered a single, 100-mg oral dose of topiramate in two double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover studies. Subjects' topiramate plasma levels ranged from 0.23 to 2.81 μg/mL. We found a significant association between topiramate levels and impairment on measures of verbal fluency elicited during a picture description task, correct number of words recalled on a paragraph recall test, and reaction time recorded during a working memory task. Using the tools of clinical pharmacology and computational linguistics, we elucidated the relationship between the determinants of a drug's disposition as reflected in plasma concentrations and their impact on cognitive functioning as reflected in spoken language discourse.

The radiation dose-regulated AND gate genetic circuit, a novel targeted and real-time monitoring strategy for cancer gene therapy

The AND gate functions such that when all inputs are activated the downstream gene will be transcribed and it is off otherwise. To accomplish optimal and targeted gene therapy in solid tumor patients, we have constructed an AND gate genetic circuit and investigated whether it could be activated by low-dose radiation in vitro and in vivo. The enhancement green fluorescent protein (EGFP) expression in different tumor cells transfected with control vector plxsn-EGFP confirmed that 2 Gy of radiation and 1% O(2) for 3 h could activate our AND gate. Besides, the obvious different levels of EGFP expression between 2 and 6 Gy of radiation demonstrated that the AND gate could be regulated by radiation doses. Additionally, through EGFP expression and the codistribution of p53 and HIF-1α in xenografts, we illustrated the targeted activation property of the AND gate and real-time monitoring to hypoxic districts in vivo. Moreover, significant growth inhibition and cell cycle arrest in vitro and apoptosis-inducing effects in vitro and in vivo proved that the AND gate induced ideal antitumor effects. In conclusion, the radiation dose-regulated AND gate genetic circuit could not only effectively monitor the therapeutic process in real-time but also induce ideal antitumor efficacy, and can be further exploited for personal therapy in clinical tumor patients.

Cell permeability, migration, and reactive oxygen species induced by multiwalled carbon nanotubes in human microvascular endothelial cells

Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) have elicited great interest in biomedical applications due to their extraordinary physical, chemical, and optical properties. Intravenous administration of MWCNT-based medical imaging agents and drugs in animal models was utilized. However, the potential harmful health effects of MWCNT administration in humans have not yet been elucidated. Furthermore, to date, there are no apparent reports regarding the precise mechanisms of translocation of MWCNT into target tissues and organs from blood circulation. This study demonstrates that exposure to MWCNT leads to an increase in cell permeability in human microvascular endothelial cells (HMVEC). The results obtained from this study also showed that the MWCNT-induced rise in endothelial permeability is mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and actin filament remodeling. In addition, it was found that MWCNT promoted cell migration in HMVEC. Mechanistically, MWCNT exposure elevated the levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) in HMVEC. Taken together, these results provide new insights into the bioreactivity of MWCNT, which may have implications in the biomedical application of MWCNT in vascular targeting, imaging, and drug delivery. The results generated from this study also elucidate the potential adverse effects of MWCNT exposure on humans at the cellular level.

Cell permeability, migration, and reactive oxygen species induced by multiwalled carbon nanotubes in human microvascular endothelial cells

Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) have elicited great interest in biomedical applications due to their extraordinary physical, chemical, and optical properties. Intravenous administration of MWCNT-based medical imaging agents and drugs in animal models was utilized. However, the potential harmful health effects of MWCNT administration in humans have not yet been elucidated. Furthermore, to date, there are no apparent reports regarding the precise mechanisms of translocation of MWCNT into target tissues and organs from blood circulation. This study demonstrates that exposure to MWCNT leads to an increase in cell permeability in human microvascular endothelial cells (HMVEC). The results obtained from this study also showed that the MWCNT-induced rise in endothelial permeability is mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and actin filament remodeling. In addition, it was found that MWCNT promoted cell migration in HMVEC. Mechanistically, MWCNT exposure elevated the levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) in HMVEC. Taken together, these results provide new insights into the bioreactivity of MWCNT, which may have implications in the biomedical application of MWCNT in vascular targeting, imaging, and drug delivery. The results generated from this study also elucidate the potential adverse effects of MWCNT exposure on humans at the cellular level.