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Lin F, Zheng F. Comparison of self-administered vaginal misoprostol versus placebo for cervical ripening prior to operative hysteroscopy using a sequential trial design. BJOG 2008; 115:1188; author reply 1189. [PMID: 18715444 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2008.01818.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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102
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Wang BL, Li XX, Zheng F, Liu R, Quan JX, Jia HW, Liang H, Deng T, Guo SY, Guo G, Zhang JY, Qiu MC. Construction of T-vectors for the direct, unidirectional cloning, and analysis of PCR-amplified promoters. Mol Biol 2007. [DOI: 10.1134/s002689330704019x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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103
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Wang BL, Li XX, Zheng F, Liu R, Quan JX, Jia HW, Liang H, Deng T, Guo SY, Guo G, Zhang JY, Qiu MC. [Construction of T-vectors for the direct, unidirectional cloning and analysis of PCR-amplified promoters]. Mol Biol (Mosk) 2007; 41:719-724. [PMID: 17936994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
The amplification and cloning of promoters are regularly employed procedures to study the mechanism of gene regulation. In the present study we developed a method to construct T-vectors used for the direct and unidirectional cloning and analysis of promoters. These so-called T-vectors pEGFP-T and pGL3-T were derived from their parent promoterless vectors pEGFP-1 and pGL3-basic, respectively. To construct the T-vectors, an AhdI recognition site within the Ampr gene in pGL3-basic was silent mutated using overlap extension PCR. Then, a specially designed AhdI cassette was cloned into the respective parent vectors. The procedures of the T-vector construction involved a strategy to minimize the background of nonrecombinant transformants and to eliminate reverse orientation of the PCR products into the T-vectors. The cloning efficiencies of the two T-vectors were both above 85% when tested with a PCR product amplified from a sequence that was pre-confirmed to be able to initiate transcription, and moreover, the constructs harbored the inserts in a desired orientation at a >90% rate. In transient transfection assays, we demonstrated these T-vectors are functional. Thus, the present study provides an easy method to construct a series of T-vectors used for promoter characterization.
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104
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Huang Y, Yin H, Han J, Huang B, Xu J, Zheng F, Tan Z, Fang M, Rui L, Chen D, Wang S, Zheng X, Wang CY, Gong F. Extracellular hmgb1 functions as an innate immune-mediator implicated in murine cardiac allograft acute rejection. Am J Transplant 2007; 7:799-808. [PMID: 17331117 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-6143.2007.01734.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Hmgb1, an evolutionarily conserved chromosomal protein, was recently re-discovered to be an innate immune-mediator contributing to both innate and adaptive immune responses. Here, we show a pivotal role for Hmgb1 in acute allograft rejection in a murine cardiac transplantation model. Extracellular Hmgb1 was found to be a potent stimulator for adaptive immune responses. Hmgb1 can be either passively released from damaged cells after organ harvest and ischemia/reperfusion insults, or actively secreted by allograft infiltrated immune cells. After transplantation, allografts show a significant temporal up-regulation of Hmgb1 expression accompanied by inflammatory infiltration, a consequence of graft destruction. These data suggest the involvement of Hmgb1 in acute allograft rejection. In line with these observations, treatment of recipients with rA-box, a specific blockade for endogenous Hmgb1, significantly prolonged cardiac allograft survival as compared to those recipients treated with either rGST or control vehicle. The enhanced graft survival is associated with reduced allograft expression of TNFalpha, IFNgamma and Hmgb1 and impaired Th1 immune response.
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105
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Pan X, Ge J, Wang C, Li X, Zheng F, Tang J. P1145 Development of hybridomas secreted Streptococcus suis 2 serotype-specific monoclone antibody. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/s0924-8579(07)70985-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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106
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Zheng F, Zeng YJ, Plati AR, Elliot SJ, Berho M, Potier M, Striker LJ, Striker GE. Combined AGE inhibition and ACEi decreases the progression of established diabetic nephropathy in B6 db/db mice. Kidney Int 2006; 70:507-14. [PMID: 16775596 DOI: 10.1038/sj.ki.5001578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGE) is a key factor in diabetic nephropathy (DN). Pyridoxamine inhibits AGE formation and protects against type I DN. Herein we tested: (1) whether C57BL6 db/db mice as a model of established type II DN resembled patients treated with drugs which inhibit angiotensin II action; (2) whether pyridoxamine was effective as a single therapy; and (3) whether pyridoxamine would add to the benefit of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition (ACEi) by enalapril. In first set of experiments mice were treated with ACEi (benazepril) and an angiotensin II receptor blocker (valsartan) combination for 16 weeks after the onset of diabetes. In second group, mice with established DN were treated with pyridoxamine for 8 weeks. In a third set, mice with established DN were treated with pyridoxamine and enalapril combination for 16 weeks. Benazepril and valsartan combination partially prevented the development and progression of DN. Pyridoxamine treatment, as single therapy, decreased the progression of albuminuria and glomerular lesions. The combination of pyridoxamine with enalapril reduced both mortality and the progression of DN. In conclusion, (1) C57 BL6 db/db mice are a model of progressive type II DN; (2) The combination of pyridoxamine with enalapril decreased progression of type 2 DN and overall mortality. Thus, pyridoxamine could be a valuable adjunct to the current treatment of established type II DN.
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107
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Schmeißer D, Zheng F, Perez-Dieste V, Himpsel F, LoNigro R, Toro R, Malandrino G, Fragalà I. Silicate formation at the interface of Pr-oxide as a high-K dielectric and Si(001) surfaces. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2005.09.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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108
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Chen X, Zheng F, Chen P, Tang L, Wei R, Yu Y, Su Y, Kikkawa T, Yamamoto M. An open-label, randomized, controlled, 4-week comparative clinical trial of barnidipine hydrochloride, a calcium-channel blocker, and benazepril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, in Chinese patients with renal parenchymal hypertension. J Int Med Res 2006; 34:121-8. [PMID: 16749407 DOI: 10.1177/147323000603400201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This study compared barnidipine, a calcium-channel blocker, and benazepril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, in 85 Chinese patients with renal parenchymal hypertension (diastolic blood pressure range 95 - 110 mmHg). Patients were randomly assigned to receive either 10 mg barnidipine or 10 mg benazepril orally daily for 4 weeks. In patients with diastolic blood pressure > 90 mmHg after 2 weeks of treatment, the dose of barnidipine or benazepril was increased by 5 or 10 mg, respectively. Both the barnidipine-treated group (n = 43) and the benazepril-treated group (n = 42) showed significant mean reductions from baseline in sitting systolic and diastolic blood pressures. The decrease in diastolic blood pressure with benazepril was significantly greater than with barnidipine treatment. Sitting heart rate was not changed by either drug. There was no significant difference in adverse events between the two groups. Barnidipine is similar to benazepril for the treatment of renal parenchymal hypertension.
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109
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Park CW, Zhang Y, Zhang X, Wu J, Chen L, Cha DR, Su D, Hwang MT, Fan X, Davis L, Striker G, Zheng F, Breyer M, Guan Y. PPARα agonist fenofibrate improves diabetic nephropathy in db/db mice. Kidney Int 2006; 69:1511-7. [PMID: 16672921 DOI: 10.1038/sj.ki.5000209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARalpha) is a member of the ligand-activated nuclear receptor superfamily, and plays an important role in lipid metabolism and glucose homeostasis. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the activation of PPARalpha by fenofbrate would improve diabetes and its renal complications in type II diabetes mellitus. Male C57 BLKS db/db mice and db/m controls at 8 weeks of age were divided to receive either a regular diet chow (db/db, n=8; db/m, n=6) or a diet containing fenofibrate (db/db, n=8; db/m, n=7). Mice were followed for 8 weeks. Fenofibrate treatment dramatically reduced fasting blood glucose (P<0.001) and HbA1c levels (P<0.001), and was associated with decreased food intake (P<0.01) and slightly reduced body weight. Fenofibrate also ameliorated insulin resistance (P<0.001) and reduced plasma insulin levels (P<0.05) in db/db mice. Hypertrophy of pancreatic islets was decreased and insulin content markedly increased (P<0.05) in fenofibrate-treated diabetic animals. In addition, fenofibrate treatment significantly reduced urinary albumin excretion (P<0.001). This was accompanied by dramatically reduced glomerular hypertrophy and mesangial matrix expansion. Furthermore, the addition of fenofibrate to cultured mesangial cells, which possess functional active PPARalpha, decreased type I collagen production. Taken together, the PPARalpha agonist fenofibrate dramatically improves hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, albuminuria, and glomerular lesions in db/db mice. The activation of PPARalpha by fenofibrate in mesangial cells may partially contribute to its renal protection. Thus, fenofibrate may serve as a therapeutic agent for type II diabetes and diabetic nephropathy.
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110
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Wang BL, Dai CL, Quan JX, Zhu ZF, Zheng F, Zhang HX, Guo SY, Guo G, Zhang JY, Qiu MC. Parathyroid hormone regulates osterix and Runx2 mRNA expression predominantly through protein kinase A signaling in osteoblast-like cells. J Endocrinol Invest 2006; 29:101-8. [PMID: 16610234 DOI: 10.1007/bf03344081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and osterix are osteoblast-specific transcription factors essential for the development of osteoblastic cells and bone formation. PTH given intermittently has anabolic effects on bone; however, the exact role remains to be understood completely. The purpose of this study was both to investigate whether PTH regulates Runx2 as well as osterix expression and to identify the signaling used. Using RT-PCR, we confirmed that PTH (1-34) regulated Runx2 and osterix mRNA expression, in rat osteoblast-like cell line UMR 106, in a dose- and time-dependent manner. PTH in low concentrations stimulated both Runx2 and osterix mRNA expression while that in high concentrations did not. Forskolin, an adenylate cyclase activator, also enhanced Runx2 and osterix transcription, and the stimulatory effects of PTH and forskolin were blocked by the pre-treatment of the cells with H-89, a protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor. In contrast, the protein kinase C (PKC) activator phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) had no effect on Runx2 transcription, but induced an increase in osterix mRNA level at the concentration of 500 nM at 12 h after treatment. Moreover, pre-treatment of the cells with calphostin C, a PKC-specific inhibitor, reduced the increase in osterix transcripts enhanced by PTH and PMA 12 h after treatment. However, these inhibitory effects were not sustained for longer terms. These observations demonstrate that PTH stimulates Runx2 and osterix expression in vitro, at least in part, at transcriptional level. Induction of Runx2 mRNA is mediated through the activation of cAMP/PKA signal transduction. In the case of osterix, although the increase in mRNA level is predominantly mediated via cAMP/PKA signaling, PKC activation might also be involved in this process.
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111
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Miller JH, Zheng F, Jin S, Opresko LK, Wiley HS, Resat H. A model of cytokine shedding induced by low doses of gamma radiation. Radiat Res 2005; 163:337-42. [PMID: 15733041 DOI: 10.1667/rr3321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
A model for sustained shedding of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in response to low doses of gamma radiation was developed based on a time delay in the feedback from mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation to metalloprotease activity in an autocrine signaling process. We determined the kinetic parameters of our model using the data available for MAPK activation by gamma irradiation in the 1-2-Gy dose range and then showed that predictions of the model were consistent with experimental results for the kinetics of EGF shedding into the growth medium after exposure of human mammary epithelial cells to 1-5 cGy of gamma radiation in the presence of antibodies that block ligand binding to EGF receptors. The model allowed us to estimate the rate of radiation-induced cytokine release per cell from measurements of EGF concentration in the growth medium and to assess the effectiveness of EGF shedding and subsequent diffusion through the medium as a mechanism for signal transmission between hit cells and bystanders.
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112
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Deprest J, Claerhout F, Zheng F, Konstantinovic M, Spelzini F, Guelinckx I, Pottier C, Verbeken E, De Ridder D. Synthetic and biodegradable prostheses in pelvic floor surgery. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ics.2005.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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113
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Zheng F, Johnson SW. Dual modulation of gabaergic transmission by metabotropic glutamate receptors in rat ventral tegmental area. Neuroscience 2003; 119:453-60. [PMID: 12770559 DOI: 10.1016/s0306-4522(03)00190-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The effects of metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) activation on non-dopamine (putative GABAergic) neurons and inhibitory synaptic transmission in the ventral tegmental area were examined using intracellular recordings from rat midbrain slices. Perfusion of (+/-)-1-aminocyclopentane-trans-1,3-dicarboxylic acid (t-ACPD; agonist for group I and II mGluRs), but not L-amino-4-phosphonobutyric acid (L-AP4; agonist for group III mGluRs), produced membrane depolarization (current clamp) and inward current (voltage clamp) in non-dopamine neurons. The t-ACPD-induced depolarization was concentration-dependent (concentration producing 50% maximal depolarization [EC(50)]=6.1+/-2.5 microM), and was blocked by the antagonist (+/-)-alpha-methyl-4-carboxyphenylglycine, but not by tetrodotoxin and ionotropic glutamate-receptor antagonists. The t-ACPD-evoked responses were mimicked comparably by selective group I mGluR agonist (RS)-3,5-dihydroxyphenylglycine (DHPG). Furthermore, the DHPG-induced depolarization in non-dopamine neurons was greatly reduced by mGluR1-specific antagonist 7(hydroxyimino)cyclopropachromen-1a-carboxylate ethyl ester. When recorded in dopamine neurons, the frequency of spontaneous GABA(A) receptor-mediated inhibitory postsynaptic potentials was increased by t-ACPD but not L-AP4. However, the amplitude of evoked inhibitory postsynaptic currents in dopamine neurons was reduced by all three group mGluR agonists. These results reveal a dual modulation of mGLuR activation on inhibitory transmission in midbrain ventral tegmental area: enhancing putative GABAergic neuronal excitability and thus potentiating tonic inhibitory synaptic transmission while reducing evoked synaptic transmission at inhibitory terminals.
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114
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Zheng F, Johnson SW. Metabotropic glutamate and muscarinic cholinergic receptor-mediated preferential inhibition of N-methyl-D-aspartate component of transmissions in rat ventral tegmental area. Neuroscience 2003; 116:1013-20. [PMID: 12617942 DOI: 10.1016/s0306-4522(02)00569-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Presynaptic inhibition is one of the major control mechanisms in the CNS. Our laboratory recently reported that presynaptic GABA(B) and adenosine A(1) receptors mediate a preferential inhibition on N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-mediated excitatory postsynaptic currents recorded in rat midbrain dopamine neurons. Here we extended these findings to metabotropic glutamate and muscarinic cholinergic receptors. Intracellular voltage clamp recordings were made from dopamine neurons in rat ventral tegmental area in slice preparations. (+/-)-1-Aminocyclopentane-trans-1,3-dicarboxylic acid (agonist for groups I and II metabotropic glutamate receptors) and L(+)-2-amino-4-phosphonobutyric acid (L-AP4; agonist for group III metabotropic glutamate receptors) were significantly more potent for inhibiting N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-mediated excitatory postsynaptic currents, as compared with inhibition of excitatory postsynaptic currents mediated by alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors. Such preferential inhibition of the N-methyl-D-aspartate component was also observed for muscarine (agonist for muscarinic cholinergic receptors). Inhibitory effects of (+/-)-1-aminocyclopentane-trans-1,3-dicarboxylic acid, L-AP4, and muscarine were blocked reversibly by their respective antagonists [(RS)-alpha-methyl-4-carboxyphenylglycine, (RS)-alpha-methyl-4-phosphonophenylglycine, and 1,1-dimethyl-4-diphenylacetoxypiperidinium iodide]. In addition, all three agonists increased the ratio of excitatory postsynaptic currents in paired-pulse studies and did not reduce currents induced by exogenous N-methyl-D-aspartate and alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid. Interestingly, the glutamate release stimulator 4-aminopyridine (30 microM) and the glutamate uptake inhibitor L-anti-endo-3,4-methanopyrrolidine dicarboxylate (300 microM) preferentially increased the amplitude of N-methyl-D-aspartate excitatory postsynaptic currents.Thus, agonists for metabotropic glutamate and muscarinic cholinergic receptors act presynaptically to cause a preferential reduction in the N-methyl-D-aspartate component of excitatory synaptic transmissions. Together with the evidence for GABA(B) and adenosine A(1) receptor-mediated preferential inhibition of the N-methyl-D-aspartate component, the present results suggest that limiting glutamate spillover onto postsynaptic N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors may be a general rule for presynaptic modulation in midbrain dopamine neurons.
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115
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Zhang Y, Zhu Y, Wang S, Zheng F, Ren F, Kim SJ. Direct determination of 1-hydroxypyrene in fish from coastal water by synchronous fluorimetry. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2002; 69:494-500. [PMID: 12232719 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-002-0089-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
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116
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Panzeri S, Golledge H, Zheng F, Pola G, Blanche T, Tovee M, Young M. The role of correlated firing and synchrony in coding information about single and separate objects in cat V1. Neurocomputing 2002. [DOI: 10.1016/s0925-2312(02)00443-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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117
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Zheng F. Thermophoresis of spherical and non-spherical particles: a review of theories and experiments. Adv Colloid Interface Sci 2002; 97:255-78. [PMID: 12027022 DOI: 10.1016/s0001-8686(01)00067-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Thermophoresis is an important mechanism of micro-particle transport due to a temperature gradient in the surrounding medium and has found numerous applications, especially in the field of aerosol technology. Extensive studies, both theoretical and experimental, have been done to understand the nature of this phenomenon. However, it is clear that a lot more of work needs to be done before we can predict thermophoresis accurately for any given gas-particle system as well as particle shape and orientation in any flow regime. This paper reviews the existing theories and data in two major categories, for spherical particles and for non-spherical particles, as well as the various techniques in making thermophoresis measurements. The current state of development for thermophoresis studies is that for spheres the theories and experimental data agree with each other fairly well but for non-spherical particles in the transition regime the theories are yet to be developed and experimental data showing the effect of particle shape are much needed in all Knudsen number range. The best techniques of thermophoretic force measurements involve the use of electrodynamic balances to work on single micro-particles and the use of microgravity to minimize the effect of convection. A combination of the above two has not been attempted and should provide the most accurate data.
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118
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Ming-gang C, Zheng-shan C, Xiang-yuan S, Ming-da L, Blair D, Shao-hong C, Yong-nian Z, Jia-lin H, Bing-gui S, Zheng F. Paragonimiasis in Yongjia County, Zhejiang Province, China: clinical, parasitological and karyotypic studies on Paragonimus westermani. THE SOUTHEAST ASIAN JOURNAL OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2001; 32:760-9. [PMID: 12041551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Paragonimiasis in Yongjia County, Zhejiang Province, China, has been of such public health concern that a specialized Institute for Paragonimiasis Control has been established there. The study reported here involved both parasitological research on Paragonimus westermani in the endemic areas and a clinical analysis of 94 cases of paragonimiasis. Eggs were found in sputum, feces and brain tissue in 45 cases. Twenty patients, 19 of whom where children under 10 years of age, showed hepatic injury. Treatment with praziquantel or bithionol had satisfactory results in all cases. Dimensions of the parasite eggs, metacercariae from freshwater crabs and adult flukes suggested that the form of P. westermani in Yongjia is the 'small type': a suggestion supported by karyotypic studies on gonad cells from adult flukes collected from experimentally infected animals as all were found to be diploid. In conclusion, the 'small type' or diploid form of P. westermani is the cause of paragonimiasis pulmonary symptoms in Yongjia.
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119
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Zheng F, Sandhu HS, Cammisa FP, Girardi FP, Khan SN. Predictors of functional outcome in elderly patients undergoing posterior lumbar spine surgery. JOURNAL OF SPINAL DISORDERS 2001; 14:518-21. [PMID: 11723404 DOI: 10.1097/00002517-200112000-00011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
To ascertain the predictors of functional outcome in elderly patients undergoing posterior lumbar spinal decompression and fusion, a modified low back outcome score questionnaire survey in 83 elderly patients (49 men, 34 women) was carried out at our hospital. The average follow-up was 35.8 months (range: 22-57 months). The outcomes were as follows: excellent to good, 83%; fair, 7%; and poor, 10%. Multiple regression analysis revealed that significant predictors of unfavorable outcome included coexistence of other bone and joint degenerative disorders (p < 0.001) and history of heart disease (p < 0.01). Patients who had undergone previous lumbar surgery had significantly lower modified low back outcome score than those without previous lumbar spine surgery (p < 0.05). The modified low back outcome score questionnaire system is a reliable method in elderly patients.
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120
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Zheng F, Johnson SW. Glycine receptor-mediated inhibition of dopamine and non-dopamine neurons of the rat ventral tegmental area in vitro. Brain Res 2001; 919:313-7. [PMID: 11701143 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-8993(01)03067-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Dopaminergic and non-dopaminergic neurons of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) were recorded intracellularly in slices of rat midbrain. Glycine (0.1-3 mM) caused a strychnine-sensitive and chloride-dependent reduction in membrane input resistance in both types of neuron. However, glycine also reduced the frequency of spontaneous bicuculline-sensitive inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (IPSPs) when recorded in dopaminergic cells. We conclude that glycine inhibits both types of VTA neuron by activating a strychnine-sensitive chloride conductance. Our data also raise the possibility that glycine could increase dopamine output from the VTA by a mechanism of disinhibition.
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121
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Shuhua X, Hotez PJ, Binggui S, Sen L, Huiqing Q, Haichou X, Bin Z, Zheng F. Electron and light microscopy of neutrophil responses in mice vaccinated and challenged with third-stage infective hookworm (Ancylostoma caninum) larvae. Parasitol Int 2001; 50:241-8. [PMID: 11719110 DOI: 10.1016/s1383-5769(01)00081-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The role of neutrophils in mediating host inflammation was examined in mice vaccinated with living third-stage infective hookworm larvae (L3). Mice were vaccinated by oral immunization with 500 L3 (Ancylostoma caninum) once every 2 weeks for a total of three immunizations. The vaccinated mice were then challenged intraperitoneally with 2000 L3) 1 week after the final immunization. To stimulate peritoneal production of neutrophils, 2 ml of 2% glycogen were injected intraperitoneally at 16 h prior to the challenge infection. Neutrophils were found to comprise 85% of the peritoneal cell population. L3 from the challenge infection were collected and then examined at timed intervals by inverted light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Greater than a fivefold increase in the total numbers of peritoneal cells was noted in the vaccinated mice as compared to unvaccinated mice. In the peritoneal cavity of vaccinated mice, the neutrophils adhered to the L3 within 2 h, and over 55% of the L3 were surround by clusters of neutrophils to form a sausage-like sheath 4 h later. At 24-72 h after challenge, almost all of the L3 recovered from the vaccinated mice were covered with thick clusters of cells. Both SEM and TEM demonstrated extensive ultrastructural damage to the L3. In contrast, the L3 recovered from the unvaccinated mice appeared to be unaffected by neutrophils. These studies suggest that neutrophils, like macrophages, can have an important role as effector cells in L3-vaccinated mice.
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122
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Yang F, Feng L, Zheng F, Johnson SW, Du J, Shen L, Wu CP, Lu B. GDNF acutely modulates excitability and A-type K(+) channels in midbrain dopaminergic neurons. Nat Neurosci 2001; 4:1071-8. [PMID: 11593232 DOI: 10.1038/nn734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) prevents lesion-induced death of midbrain dopaminergic neurons, but its function in normal brain remains uncertain. Here we show that GDNF acutely and reversibly potentiated the excitability of cultured midbrain neurons by inhibiting transient A-type K(+) channels. The effects of GDNF were limited to large, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive dopaminergic neurons, and were mediated by mitogen associated protein (MAP) kinase. Application of GDNF also elicited a MAP kinase-dependent enhancement of the excitability in dopaminergic neurons in midbrain slice. These results demonstrate an acute regulation of GDNF on ion channels and its underlying signaling mechanism, and reveal an unexpected role of GDNF in normal midbrain dopaminergic neurons.
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Zheng F, Cai W, Mitsuhashi T, Vlassara H. Lysozyme enhances renal excretion of advanced glycation endproducts in vivo and suppresses adverse age-mediated cellular effects in vitro: a potential AGE sequestration therapy for diabetic nephropathy? Mol Med 2001; 7:737-47. [PMID: 11788787 PMCID: PMC1950004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lysozyme (LZ), a host-defense protein, contains an 18 amino-acid domain with high affinity binding for sugar-derived proteins or lipids, called advanced glycation endproducts (AGE), that are implicated in diabetes- and age-dependent complications (DC). MATERIALS AND METHODS A) The effects of LZ on AGE- removal were tested in vivo. LZ was injected (200 ug/day, i.p., X2 weeks) in non-obese diabetic (NOD), db/db (+/+) mice, and non-diabetic, AGE-infused Sprague-Dawley rats. B) LZ: AGE interactions with macrophage-like T1B-183 cells (Mf) and mesangial cells (MC) were tested in vitro. RESULTS A) In NOD mice, LZ reduced the elevated basal serum AGE (sAGE) (p < 0.05), enhanced urinary AGE (uAGE) excretion by approximately 2-fold (p < 0.01), while it reduced albuminuria (UA), p < 0.005. In db/db mice, LZ infusion also reduced the elevated sAGE (p < 0.05), doubled uAGE excretion (p < 0.05), and decreased UA (p < 0.01). In addition, LZ maintained normal sAGE in normal rats infused with AGE-BSA, as it doubled the urinary AGE (uAGE) clearance (p < 0.01). B) LZ stimulated the uptake and degradation of (125) I-labeled AGE-BSA and (25) I-human serum AGE by Mf, while suppressing AGE-induced TNFalpha and IGF-I production. In MC, LZ suppressed the AGE-promoted PDGF-B, alpha1 type IV collagen, and tenascin mRNA levels, and restored the AGE-suppressed expression and activity of MMP-9, but not MMP-2. CONCLUSION LZ may act to: a) accelerate renal in-vivo AGE clearance, b) suppress macrophage and mesangial cell- specific gene activation in vitro, and c) improve albuminuria due to diabetes. These data suggest that LZ by sequestering AGEs may protect against diabetic renal damage.
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Zhan B, Li T, Xiao S, Zheng F, Hawdon JM. Species-Specific Identification of Human Hookworms by PCR of the Mitochondrial Cytochrome Oxidase I Gene. J Parasitol 2001. [DOI: 10.2307/3285278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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Zhan B, Li T, Xiao S, Zheng F, Hawdon JM. Species-specific identification of human hookworms by PCR of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I gene. J Parasitol 2001; 87:1227-9. [PMID: 11695411 DOI: 10.1645/0022-3395(2001)087[1227:ssiohh]2.0.co;2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Significant differences in the life histories of the human hookworms Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus necessitate their differentiation for epidemiological studies and the design of control programs. Current methods of identification require time-consuming, labor-intensive techniques. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based method that enables rapid species identification is described. The mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I genes of both species were sequenced, and species-specific primer sets were designed. The primers were used in PCR to amplify 585-bp fragments of the cytochrome oxidase gene from individual hookworm eggs, larvae, and adults. The technique was also able to identify mixed infections containing equal amounts of eggs from each species. The technique is rapid, technically simple, and sensitive and will permit the accurate identification of human hookworms in epidemiological field studies.
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