526
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Ren Y, Ma A, Li J, Jiang X, Ma Y, Toda A, Hu W. Melting of polymer single crystals studied by dynamic Monte Carlo simulations. THE EUROPEAN PHYSICAL JOURNAL. E, SOFT MATTER 2010; 33:189-202. [PMID: 20957404 DOI: 10.1140/epje/i2010-10661-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2010] [Revised: 06/30/2010] [Accepted: 09/27/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
We report dynamic Monte Carlo simulations of lattice polymers melting from a metastable chain-folded lamellar single crystal. The single crystal was raised and then melted in an ultrathin film of polymers wetting on a solid substrate, mimicking the melting observations made by using Atomic Force Microscopy. We observed that the thickness distribution of the single crystal appears quite inhomogeneous and the thickness increases gradually from facetted edges to the center. Therefore, at low melting temperatures, melting stops at a certain crystal thickness, and melting-recrystallization occurs when allowing crystal thickening; at intermediate temperatures, melting maintains the crystal shape and exhibits different speeds in two stages; at high temperatures, fast melting makes a melting hole in the thinnest region, as well as a saw-tooth-like pattern at the crystal edges. In addition, the linear melting rates at low temperatures align on the curve extrapolated from the linear crystal growth rates. The temperature dependence of the melting rates exhibits a regime transition similar to crystal growth. Such kinetic symmetry persists in the melting rates with variable frictional barriers for c -slip diffusion in the crystal as well as with variable chain lengths. Visual inspections revealed highly frequent reversals upon melting of single chains at the wedge-shaped lateral front of the lamellar crystal. We concluded that the melting kinetics is dominated by the reverse process of intramolecular secondary crystal nucleation of polymers.
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527
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Zhang Y, Xiao J, Tong T, Jiang X, Yang W, Zhan Q. Successive Hypofractionated Radiation May be Superior to the Intermittent Hypofractionated Radiation: Animal Study and Microarray Analysis. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2010.07.1455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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528
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Qiu JJ, Chu H, Lu X, Jiang X, Dong S. The reduced and altered activities of PAX5 are linked to the protein-protein interaction motif (coiled-coil domain) of the PAX5-PML fusion protein in t(9;15)-associated acute lymphocytic leukemia. Oncogene 2010; 30:967-77. [PMID: 20972455 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2010.473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The paired box domain of PAX5 was reported to fuse with the sequence of promyelocytic leukemia (PML) to produce PAX5-PML chimeric protein in two patients with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. In the present studies, we found, by gel shift assays, that PAX5-PML bound to a panel of PAX5-consensus sequence acts as a homodimer with reduction of its DNA-binding affinities in comparison with wild-type PAX5. In transient transfection assays using 293T and HeLa cells, and retrovirus transduction of murine hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells together with quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis, PAX5-PML inhibited wild-type PAX5 target gene transcriptional activity. Studies comparing PAX5-PML with PAX5-PML(ΔCC) demonstrated that the coiled-coil (CC) protein interaction domain located within the PML moiety was required for PAX5-PML homodimer complex formation and partial transcriptional repression of genes controlled by PAX5. Fluorescent microscopic examination of transiently expressed YFP-tagged proteins in HeLa and 293T cells demonstrated that YFP-PAX5-PML and YFP-PAX5-PML(ΔCC) exhibited a diffuse granular pattern within the nucleus, similar to PAX5 but not PML. By fluorescent recovery after photobleach (FRAP), we have shown that PAX5-PML fusion protein has reduced intranuclear mobility compared with wild-type PAX5. Furthermore, the dimerization domain (CC) of PML was responsible for the reduced intranuclear mobility of PAX5-PML. These results indicate that the CC domain of PAX5-PML is important for each of the known activities of PAX5-PML fusion proteins.
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529
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Brown JC, Wang J, Kasman L, Jiang X, Haley-Zitlin V. Activities of muscadine grape skin and quercetin against Helicobacter pylori infection in mice. J Appl Microbiol 2010; 110:139-46. [PMID: 20955190 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2010.04870.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To explore the preventative potential of muscadine grape skin (MGS) and the single flavonoid, quercetin, as an alternative means for ameliorating Helicobacter pylori infection and/or the H. pylori-induced inflammatory response in mice. METHODS AND RESULTS The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of MGS and quercetin, a major phenolic constituent, were evaluated against H. pylori in vitro and in vivo. The antimicrobial activity of quercetin was evaluated against 11 H. pylori strains in vitro with inhibition of all strains at 128-64 μg ml(-1) . In vivo studies showed a moderate reduction in H. pylori counts following treatment with 5 and 10% MGS or quercetin (25 mg kg(-1) body weight) in addition to significantly reduced inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and IFN-γ) when compared with untreated mice. CONCLUSIONS MGS and quercetin did not significantly reduce H. pylori growth in a mouse model. However, these products were effective in regulating the inflammatory response to H. pylori infection. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY Our results suggest that H. pylori infection may be reduced or prevented via the consumption of fruits rich in certain phenolic compounds (e.g. quercetin) such as muscadine grapes.
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530
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Kim J, Jiang X. The growth potential of Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes in dairy manure-based compost in a greenhouse setting under different seasons. J Appl Microbiol 2010; 109:2095-104. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2010.04841.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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531
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Jiang X, Cooper P, Scott PJ. Freeform surface filtering using the diffusion equation. Proc Math Phys Eng Sci 2010. [DOI: 10.1098/rspa.2010.0307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The measurement of texture for geometric surfaces is well established for surfaces that are of a planar (Euclidean) nature. Gaussian filtering is the fundamental base for scale-limited surfaces used in surface texture, but cannot be applied to non-Euclidean surfaces without distortion of the results. A link exists between Gaussian filtering and solutions of the PDE that models linear isotropic diffusion. In particular, an analytical solution of this diffusion equation over a planar region at a time
t
is given by the continuous convolution of the initial distribution of the diffused quantity with a Gaussian function of standard deviation
. A practical implementation of the standard Gaussian filter on sampled data can be viewed as a discretization of this process. On a non-Euclidean surface, the diffusion equation is formulated by using the Laplace–Beltrami operator. Using this generalization, a method of Gaussian filtering for freeform surface data is proposed by solving the diffusion equation for approximation residuals defined on a freeform least-squares approximation of the measurement surface data. Results of the application of these methods to simulated and experimental data are presented.
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532
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Cheng Y, Hou L, Jiang X, Zhao Y. Epidemiology study of prevalence rate, trend and influencing factor of infertility in Anhui Province. Fertil Steril 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.07.395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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533
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Paolone M, Malace SP, Strauch S, Albayrak I, Arrington J, Berman BL, Brash EJ, Briscoe B, Camsonne A, Chen JP, Christy ME, Chudakov E, Cisbani E, Craver B, Cusanno F, Ent R, Garibaldi F, Gilman R, Glamazdin O, Glister J, Higinbotham DW, Hyde-Wright CE, Ilieva Y, de Jager CW, Jiang X, Jones MK, Keppel CE, Khrosinkova E, Kuchina E, Kumbartzki G, Lee B, Lindgren R, Margaziotis DJ, Meekins D, Michaels R, Park K, Pentchev L, Perdrisat CF, Piasetzky E, Punjabi VA, Puckett AJR, Qian X, Qiang Y, Ransome RD, Saha A, Sarty AJ, Schulte E, Solvignon P, Subedi RR, Tang L, Tedeschi D, Tvaskis V, Udias JM, Ulmer PE, Vignote JR, Wesselmann FR, Wojtsekhowski B, Zhan X. Polarization transfer in the 4He(e,e'p)3H reaction at Q2=0.8 and 1.3 (GeV/c)2. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2010; 105:072001. [PMID: 20868031 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.105.072001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Proton recoil polarization was measured in the quasielastic 4He(e,e'p)3H reaction at Q{2}=0.8 and 1.3 (GeV/c){2} with unprecedented precision. The polarization-transfer coefficients are found to differ from those of the 1H(e,e'p) reaction, contradicting a relativistic distorted-wave approximation and favoring either the inclusion of medium-modified proton form factors predicted by the quark-meson coupling model or a spin-dependent charge-exchange final-state interaction. For the first time, the polarization-transfer ratio is studied as a function of the virtuality of the proton.
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534
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Tian P, Yang D, Jiang X, Zhong W, Cannon JL, Burkhardt W, Woods JW, Hartman G, Lindesmith L, Baric RS, Mandrell R. Specificity and kinetics of norovirus binding to magnetic bead-conjugated histo-blood group antigens. J Appl Microbiol 2010; 109:1753-62. [PMID: 21040268 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2010.04812.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To characterize the specificity and effect of pH and ionic strength on the kinetics of virus binding to histo-blood group antigens (HBGA)-conjugated magnetic beads. METHODS AND RESULTS HBGAs from porcine gastric mucin (PGM) have been conjugated to magnetic beads (PGM-MB) for concentration of NoV. A GII.4 virus was used for the detailed binding kinetics study and a panel of genogroup I (GI) NoVs, genogroup II (GII) NoVs and recombinant NoVs (rNoVs) were used for specificity and binding efficiency assays. We determined that NoV can be captured after 15min of incubation with PGM-MB, and virus recovery efficiency is decreased after extended incubation times. rNoV binding as measured by ELISA and NoV recovery as measured by quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), were both enhanced significantly at acidic pH conditions. rNoV binding to PGM as measured by ELISA was increased up to 66%. While real-time RT-PCR analyses suggest that NoV could be concentrated as much as 1000-fold at neutral pH, up to 3·4-fold further increase of NoV recovery was achieved by adjusting the pH of the sample to 3·0-4·2. Variation between GI and GII viral binding to the PGM-MB at basic pH was observed. All five GI rNoVs tested and 6 of 9 GII rNoVs were captured by PGM. All eight GI strains tested were concentrated by PGM-MB, ranging from 28-fold (GI.4) to 1502-fold (GI.1). Eleven of 13 GII strains were concentrated from 30-fold (GII.5) to 1014-fold (GII.4, lab strain) by PGM-MB. GI and GII rNoVs viral capsid proteins were recovered with high salt conditions, but results were inconsistent for whole virus recovery. CONCLUSIONS All GI and 85% of GII NoVs tested could be captured and concentrated by PGM-MB method. The binding occurred rapidly and was enhanced at low pH. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY These results facilitated development of a prototype method for sensitive detection of NoV in samples requiring larger volumes.
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535
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Fuchs S, Jiang X, Gotman I, Makarov C, Schmidt H, Gutmanas EY, Kirkpatrick CJ. Influence of polymer content in Ca-deficient hydroxyapatite-polycaprolactone nanocomposites on the formation of microvessel-like structures. Acta Biomater 2010; 6:3169-77. [PMID: 20144913 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2010.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2009] [Revised: 01/11/2010] [Accepted: 02/02/2010] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Calcium phosphate (CaP) ceramics are widely used in bone tissue engineering due to their good osteoconductivity. The mechanical properties of CaP can be modified by the addition of small volume fractions of biodegradable polymers such as polycaprolactone (PCL). Nevertheless, it is also important to evaluate how the polymer content influences cell-material or cell-cell interactions because of potential consequences for bone regeneration and vascularization. In this study we assessed the general biocompatibilty of Ca-deficient hydroxyapatite (CDHA)-PCL disks containing nominally 11 and 24% polycaprolactone using human umbilical vein endothelial cells and human primary osteoblasts. Confocal microscopy showed that both CDHA-PCL variants supported the growth of both cell types. In terms of the endothelial cells grown on CDHA-PCL nanocomposites with 24% PCL, an increased expression of the endothelial marker vWF compared to CDHA-PCL with 11% PCL was observed in real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. In addition to monocultures, co-cultures of outgrowth endothelial cells, derived from peripheral blood, and primary osteoblasts were assessed as an example of a more complex test system for bone regeneration and vascularization. Constructs based on CDHA with different PCL contents were investigated with regard to the formation of microvessel-like structures induced by the co-culture process using confocal microscopy and quantitative image analysis. Furthermore, the osteogenic differentiation of the co-culture was assessed. As a result, more pre-vascular structures were observed after 1 week on the CDHA-PCL disks with 24% PCL, whereas after 4 weeks of culture the extent of microvessel-like structure formation was slightly higher on the CDHA with 11% PCL. In contrast to this, variation of PCL content had no effect on the osteogenic differentiation in the co-culture.
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536
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Feng Q, Gao T, Ji H, Jiang X, Liang T, Gu W, Wu G, Gao G, Wang W. Kinetic analysis of oxytetracycline residues in Chinese mitten crab, Eriocheir sinensis, muscle following intramuscular administration. JOURNAL OF FISH DISEASES 2010; 33:639-647. [PMID: 20561141 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2761.2010.01168.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Crab culture is a very important economic industry in China. An epidemic of tremor disease of Chinese mitten crabs, Eriocheir sinensis, has become a serious problem in recent years. A spiroplasm has been proved to be the causative agent of this disease. Oxytetracycline (OTC) is used widely in aquaculture and was confirmed to be very effective against this pathogen. In this study, the distribution and depletion patterns of OTC in crab muscle were evaluated following single intramuscular doses of 2, 8 and 40 mg kg(-1) body weight. OTC was detected with a validated HPLC method. Concentration-time profiles were well described by a three-compartment model with first-order absorption after a single dose of 8 and 40 mg kg(-1). For comparison, a non-compartment model was employed. A withdrawal time of 48.29 and 55.92 days was suggested prior to consumption after receiving 8 and 40 mg kg(-1). A recommended therapeutic dose of OTC in theory was calculated to be 36.37 mg kg(-1). OTC was distributed well throughout the body. The elimination of OTC in muscle was slower compared with fish and other crustaceans. A dose of 40 mg kg(-1) is suggested for practical use.
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537
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Zhang Y, Jiang X, Qin X, Ye D, Yi Z, Liu M, Bai O, Liu W, Xie X, Wang Z, Fang J, Chen Y. RKTG inhibits angiogenesis by suppressing MAPK-mediated autocrine VEGF signaling and is downregulated in clear-cell renal cell carcinoma. Oncogene 2010; 29:5404-15. [PMID: 20603618 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2010.270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) are crucial regulators of angiogenesis and vasculogenesis. The autocrine VEGF signaling is required for maintaining the homeostasis of vasculature. Dysregulation of angiogenesis is implicated in the development of many human cancers, especially in clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), a highly vascularized tumor. Meanwhile, antiangiogenesis has become a mainstay in the treatment of human cancers. In this study, we analyzed the functional roles of RKTG (Raf Kinase Trapping to Golgi), a negative regulator of mitogen-activated protein kinase (Raf/MEK/ERK) signaling, by sequestration of Raf kinase to the Golgi apparatus, in angiogenesis and ccRCC. Through a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments, we found that RKTG has a negative effect on cell proliferation, migration, sprouting and angiogenesis of endothelial cells. RKTG, by suppressing mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling, negatively regulates the transactivation activity of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) by inhibiting formation of HIF-1α/p300 complex and suppressing VEGF transcription, thereby reducing hypoxia-induced VEGF production. The expression level of RKTG is significantly downregulated in clinical ccRCC tumor samples, with an inverse correlation with VEGF expression level. These results highlight the functional roles of RKTG and its regulated Raf/ERK/MEK signaling cascade in angiogenesis and autocrine VEGF signaling. In addition, this study indicates that RKTG is likely implicated in the development of ccRCC through its regulation on angiogenesis.
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538
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Makarov C, Gotman I, Jiang X, Fuchs S, Kirkpatrick CJ, Gutmanas EY. In situ synthesis of calcium phosphate-polycaprolactone nanocomposites with high ceramic volume fractions. JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE. MATERIALS IN MEDICINE 2010; 21:1771-1779. [PMID: 20217191 DOI: 10.1007/s10856-010-4039-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2009] [Accepted: 02/23/2010] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Biodegradable calcium phosphate-PCL nanocomposite powders with unusually high ceramic volume fractions (80-95%) and uniform PCL distribution were synthesized by a non-aqueous chemical reaction in the presence of the dissolved polymer. No visible polymer separation occurred during processing. Depending on the reagents combination, either dicalcium phosphate (DCP) or Ca-deficient HA (CDHA) was obtained. CDHA-PCL composite powders were high pressure consolidated at room temperature yielding dense materials with high compressive strengths. Such densification route provides the possibility of incorporating drug and proteins without damaging their biological activity. The CDHA-PCL composites were tested in osteoblastic and endothelial cell line cultures and were found to support the attachment and proliferation of both cell types.
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539
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Yue Z, Xiong S, Sun L, Huang W, Mo Y, Huang L, Jiang X, Chen S, Hu B, Wang Y. Novel compound mutations of SMARCAL1 associated with severe Schimke immuno-osseous dysplasia in a Chinese patient. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2010; 25:1697-1702. [DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfq071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023] Open
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540
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Jiang X, Blanz V, Riesenhuber M. fMRI and behavioral evidence against a ";norm-based" face representation. J Vis 2010. [DOI: 10.1167/7.9.888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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541
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Sun X, Vale M, Jiang X, Gupta R, Krissansen GW. Antisense HIF-1alpha prevents acquired tumor resistance to angiostatin gene therapy. Cancer Gene Ther 2010; 17:532-40. [PMID: 20348876 DOI: 10.1038/cgt.2010.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Angiostatin is a naturally occurring inhibitor of angiogenesis that is being developed as a drug to fight cancer. In this study we reveal that EL-4 tumors established in mice rapidly develop resistance to angiostatin gene therapy by upregulating hypoxia-inducible pathways. Angiostatin initially delayed tumor growth for 6 days by reducing blood vessel density. However, tumors quickly responded by upregulating the production of hypoxia-inducible factor-1alpha (HIF-1alpha) and its effector vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in response to increasing tumor hypoxia, leading to restored angiogenesis and rapid tumor growth. Theoretically, blockade of HIF-1 should prevent resistance to anti-angiogenic therapy by preventing a tumor from responding to induced hypoxia. Antisense HIF-1alpha inhibited the expression of HIF-1alpha and of the HIF-1 effectors VEGF, glucose transporter-1 and lactate dehydrogenase. As a monotherapy, it was effective in eradicating small 0.1 cm diameter tumors, but only delayed the growth of large 0.4 cm diameter tumors. In contrast, timed injection of a combination of angiostatin and antisense HIF-1alpha plasmids completely eradicated large EL-4 tumors within 2 weeks, and prevented upregulation of hypoxia-inducible pathways induced by angiostatin. The data indicate that blocking hypoxia-inducible pathways by antisense HIF-1alpha can circumvent hypoxia-induced drug resistance and thereby augment the efficacy of anti-angiogenic therapies.
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542
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Jiang X, Bradley E, Rini L, Zeffiro T, VanMeter J, Riesenhuber M. Categorization training leads to sharpening tuning of shape-specific tuning in the lateral occipital cortex and learning of category-selective representations in the prefrontal cortex. J Vis 2010. [DOI: 10.1167/6.6.620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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543
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Jiang X, Zeffiro T, VanMeter J, Blanz V, Riesenhuber M. Predicting human face discrimination performance and FFA activation using a computational model of face neurons. J Vis 2010. [DOI: 10.1167/5.8.631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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544
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Olajos-Clow J, Minard J, Szpiro K, Juniper EF, Turcotte S, Jiang X, Jenkins B, Lougheed MD. Validation of an electronic version of the Mini Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire. Respir Med 2010; 104:658-67. [PMID: 20226646 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2009.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2009] [Revised: 11/11/2009] [Accepted: 11/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Mini Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (MiniAQLQ) is a validated disease-specific quality of life (QOL) paper (p) questionnaire. Electronic (e) versions enable inclusion of asthma QOL in electronic medical records and research databases. PURPOSE To validate an e-version of the MiniAQLQ, compare time required for completion of e- and p-versions, and determine which version participants prefer. METHODS Adults with stable asthma were randomized to complete either the e- or p-MiniAQLQ, followed by a 2-h rest period before completing the other version. Agreement between versions was measured using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland-Altman analysis. RESULTS Two participants with incomplete p-MiniAQLQ responses were excluded. Forty participants (85% female; age 47.7 +/- 14.9 years; asthma duration 22.6 +/- 16.1 years; FEV(1) 87.1 +/- 21.6% predicted) with both AQLQ scores <6.0 completed the study. Agreement between e- and p-versions for the overall score was acceptable (ICC=0.95) with no bias (difference (Delta) p-e=0.1; P=0.21). ICCs for the symptom, activity limitation, emotional function and environmental stimuli domains were 0.94, 0.89, 0.90, and 0.91 respectively. A small but significant bias (Delta=0.3; P=0.004) was noted in the activity limitation domain. Completion time was significantly longer for the e-version (3.8 +/- 1.9min versus 2.7 +/- 1.1min; P<0.0001). The majority of patients (57.5%) preferred the e-MiniAQLQ; 35% had no preference. CONCLUSION This e-version of the MiniAQLQ is valid and was preferred by most participants despite taking slightly longer to complete. Generalizabilty may be limited in younger (12-17) and older (>65) adults.
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545
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Hope M, Jiang X, Gough J, Cadogan L, Josh P, Jonsson N, Willadsen P. Experimental vaccination of sheep and cattle against tick infestation using recombinant 5'-nucleotidase. Parasite Immunol 2010; 32:135-42. [PMID: 20070827 PMCID: PMC2821529 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.2009.01168.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Limited prior evidence suggests that 5′-nucleotidase, an ectoenzyme principally located in the Malpighian tubules of the tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, could be an effective antigen in an anti-tick vaccine. To assess this, recombinant 5′-nucleotidase was expressed in Escherichia coli and used in vaccination trials with both sheep and cattle. Vaccinated sheep were challenged with freshly moulted adult ticks. Those with high titres of anti-nucleotidase antibodies showed significant protection against tick infestation, although protection was less than that found with the previously characterized antigen, Bm86. Cattle were vaccinated, in separate groups, with 5′-nucleotidase, Bm86 and both antigens combined. Cattle, as the natural host, were challenged with larval ticks. Although Bm86 showed typical efficacy, no significant protection was seen in cattle vaccinated with 5′-nucleotidase. Cattle receiving a dual antigen formulation were no better protected than those receiving Bm86 alone. One possible reason for the difference between host species, namely antibody titre, was examined and shown to be an unlikely explanation. This demonstrates a limitation of using a model host like sheep in vaccine studies.
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546
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Martin H, Jiang X. Rapid phase-shifting fiber interferometer with optical stylus. OPTICS LETTERS 2010; 35:655-657. [PMID: 20195309 DOI: 10.1364/ol.35.000655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Optical fiber interferometry holds many advantages for the online measurement of high-precision surfaces. Here, a fiber interferometer with a wavelength-scanning probe is reported. Such an interferometer requires active stabilization against the effects of temperature drift and vibration. A method of multiplexing dual wavelengths into the same fiber, combined with rapid phase shifting and real-time phase calculation, is investigated. Experimental data show the successful stabilization of the interferometer regardless of environmental perturbation.
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547
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Xiao M, Qi F, Chen X, Luo Z, Zhang L, Zheng C, Hu S, Jiang X, Zhou M, Tang J. Functional polymorphism ofcytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4and nasopharyngeal carcinoma susceptibility in a Chinese population. Int J Immunogenet 2010; 37:27-32. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1744-313x.2009.00888.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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548
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Jiang X, Bai Y, Ling X, Han F, Li R, Cui J. Simultaneous Determination of 4-Methyl-Piperazine-1-Carbodithioc Acid 3-Cyano-3,3-Diphenylpropyl Ester Hydrochloride and its Major Metabolite in Rats by HPLC. J Chromatogr Sci 2010; 48:125-9. [DOI: 10.1093/chromsci/48.2.125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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549
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Forrest DL, Jiang X, Eaves CJ, Smith CL. An approach to the management of chronic myeloid leukemia in British Columbia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 15:90-7. [PMID: 18454182 PMCID: PMC2365478 DOI: 10.3747/co.v15i2.224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Chronic myeloid leukemia (cml) is a myeloproliferative disorder whose therapy has changed dramatically since the late 1990s. With the introduction of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor (tki) imatinib mesylate, the treatment outcomes for patients with cml have improved markedly, and hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation is no longer routinely offered as first-line therapy for most patients in chronic phase.However, resistance to tki therapy is increasingly being recognized, and alternative therapy is needed for this group of patients. In addition, the development of models predicting response to tki therapy is desired, so that appropriate treatment strategies can be used for individual patients. The present report serves to outline the approach to the treatment of cml in British Columbia and to highlight areas of ongoing research.
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Zeng HK, Wang QS, Deng YY, Fang M, Chen CB, Fu YH, Jiang WQ, Jiang X. Hypertonic saline ameliorates cerebral edema through downregulation of aquaporin-4 expression in the astrocytes. Neuroscience 2010; 166:878-85. [PMID: 20083168 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2009.12.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2009] [Revised: 12/29/2009] [Accepted: 12/30/2009] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Osmotherapy with 10% hypertonic saline (HS) alleviates cerebral edema through osmotic force. Aquaporin-4 (AQP4) has been reported to be implicated in the pathogenesis of cerebral edema resulting from a variety of brain injury. This study aimed to determine if 10% hypertonic saline ameliorates cerebral edema through downregulation of AQP4 expression in the perivascular astrocytes in the ischemic cerebral edema. Adult male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were subjected to permanent right-sided middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and treated with a continuous i.v. infusion of 10% HS. Brain water content (BWC) analyzed by wet-to-dry ratios in the ischemic hemisphere of SD rats was attenuated after 10% HS treatment. This was coupled with the reduction of neuronal apoptosis in the peri-ischemic brain tissue. Concomitantly, downregulated expression of AQP4 in the perivascular astrocytes after 10% HS treatment was observed. Our results suggest that in addition to its osmotic force, 10% HS exerts anti-edema effects possibly through downregulation of AQP4 expression in the perivascular astrocytes. The reduction of brain edema after 10% HS administration can prevent ischemic brain damage.
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