Identification of quantitative trait loci for mineral elements in grains and grass powder of barley

Mineral elements in barley (Hordeum vulgare) play an important physiological role in global human health. In this study, quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for concentration of nine mineral elements in barley grain and grass powder were detected in a population of 193 recombinant inbred lines of the barley cross Ziguangmangluoerling x Schooner and the parents. We observed large genetic variation contributing to element concentrations in both grains and grass powder. The mean K, Ca, and Fe concentrations in grass powder were 6.67, 12.00, and 4.58 times that of regenerating barley grains. In grains, 17 QTLs that accounted for 6.36-64.08% of the phenotypic variation in Zn, Mg, Ca, K, Na, Mn, Fe, and P concentrations were identified. In grass powder, seven QTLs were identified; these accounted for 6.03-21.86% of the variation in Ca, Zn, Mg, K, Fe, and Cu concentrations. These QTLs affecting elements in grain and grass powder are so far unreported in barley. To our knowledge, QTLs with pleiotropic effects for three elements were also identified for the first time in barley. The qK1/qMg1/qCa1 region between markers Bmag0211 and GBMS0014 on chromosome 1H was shown to have large additive effects for Mg, Ca, and K concentrations in grains. These additive effects indicated that the high element (Mg, Ca, Zn, Mn, and K) alleles were contributed by Ziguangmangluoerling. These results will further our understanding of the genetic basis of mineral elements and help us develop markers linked with mineral elements for marker-assisted selection breeding in barley.

Phosphorylation of NFAT3 by CDK3 induces cell transformation and promotes tumor growth in skin cancer

The nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) family proteins are transcription factors that regulate the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other genes during the immune response. Although the NFAT proteins have been extensively investigated in the immune system, their role in cancer progression remains controversial. Here, we report that NFAT3 is highly expressed in various skin cancer cell lines and tumor tissues. Knockdown of endogenous NFAT3 expression by short hairpin RNA (shRNA) significantly inhibited tumor cell proliferation, colony formation and anchorage-independent cell growth. Furthermore, results of the mammalian two-hybrid assay showed that cyclin-dependent kinase 3 (CDK3) directly interacted with NFAT3 and phosphorylated NFAT3 at serine 259 (Ser259), which enhanced the transactivation and transcriptional activity of NFAT3. The phosphorylation site of NFAT3 was critical for epidermal growth factor (EGF)-stimulated cell transformation of the HaCaT immortalized skin cell line and mutation of NFAT3 at Ser259 led to a reduction of colony formation in soft agar. We also found that overexpressing wildtype NFAT3, but not mutant NFAT3-S259A, promoted A431 xenograft tumor growth. Importantly, we showed that CDK3, NFAT3 and phosphorylated NFAT3-Ser259 were highly expressed in skin cancer compared with normal skin tissues. These results provided evidence supporting the oncogenic potential of NFAT3 and suggested that CDK3-mediated phosphorylation of NFAT3 has an important role in skin tumorigenesis.

Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid Attenuates Angiotensin II Induced Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Formation in Apolipoprotein E-deficient Mice by Inhibiting Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress

OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is characterised by the infiltration of smooth muscle cell (SMC) apoptosis, inflammatory cells, neovascularisation, and degradation of the extracellular matrix. Previous work has shown that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and SMC apoptosis were increased both in a mouse model and human thoracic aortic aneurysm. However, whether the ER stress is activated in AAA formation and whether suppressing ER stress attenuates AAA is unknown.

METHODS

Human AAA and control aorta samples were collected. Expression of ER stress chaperones glucose-regulated protein (GRP)-78 and GRP-94 was detected by immunohistochemical staining. The effect of ER stress inhibitor tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) on AAA formation in angiotensin (Ang) II induced apolipoprotein E^-/- mice was explored. Elastin staining was used to observe the rupture of elastic fragmentation. Immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis were performed, to detect the protein expression of ER stress chaperones and apoptosis molecules.

RESULTS

There was significant upregulation of GRP-78 and GRP-94 in aneurysmal areas of human AAA and Ang II induced ApoE^-/- mice (p < .05). TUDCA significantly attenuated the maximum diameters of abdominal aortas in Ang II induced ApoE^-/- mice (p < .05). TUDCA significantly reduced expression of ER stress chaperones and the apoptotic cell numbers (p < .05). Furthermore, TUDCA significantly reduced expression of apoptosis molecules, such as caspase-3, caspase-12, C/EBP homologous protein, c-Jun N-terminal kinase activating transcription factor 4, X-box binding protein, and eukaryotic initiation factor 2α in Ang II induced ApoE^-/- mice (p < .05).

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that ER stress is involved in human and Ang II induced AAA formation in ApoE^-/- mice. TUDCA attenuates Ang II induced AAA formation in ApoE^-/- mice by inhibiting ER stress mediated apoptosis.

[Clinical and imaging features of abdominal rhabdomyosarcoma of non-organ origin in children]

Objective: To evaluate the clinical and imaging features of abdominal rhabdomyosarcoma of non-organ origin in children. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and imaging features of 12 pediatric patients with abdominal rhabdomyosarcoma confirmed by surgery and pathology at our hospital. Results: There were 9 boys and 3 girls, with an average age of (5.47±3.92) years old (range, 1 to 15). According to Intergroup Rhabdomyosarcoma Study (IRS) staging system, they were of stage Ⅲ to stage Ⅳ, and most were of embryonal type. Tumors of 7 cases were located in the pelvic cavity, 2 cases in the abdominal cavity, 1 in the retroperitoneal space, 1 in both the abdominal and pelvic cavities and 1 across the retroperitoneal space, and abdominal and pelvic cavities. Gray-scale ultrasound showed moderate inhomogeneous echo structure and color Doppler flow imaging showed rich blood flow signals. CT plain scan showed masses of iso- or low-density, and the contrast-enhanced scan showed lesions with inhomogeneous enhancement. The enhancement in delay scan was more obvious and the peripheral enhancement was more significant than central enhancement. Conclusions: Childhood abdominal rhabdomyosarcoma of non-organ origin may arise from the peritoneum, be commonly seen in boys younger than 10 years old, more likely located in the pelvic cavity, and embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common histological variant seen in childhood. Ultrasound and CT imaging can provide useful information for diagnosis and differential diagnosis of this tumor.

Negative emotions affect postoperative scores for evaluating functional knee recovery and quality of life after total knee replacement

This study aimed to determine whether psychological factors affect health-related quality of life (HRQL) and recovery of knee function in total knee replacement (TKR) patients. A total of 119 TKR patients (male: 38; female: 81) completed the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Eysenck Personality Questionnaire-revised (EPQR-S), Knee Society Score (KSS), and HRQL (SF-36). At 1 and 6 months after surgery, anxiety, depression, and KSS scores in TKR patients were significantly better compared with those preoperatively (P<0.05). SF-36 scores at the sixth month after surgery were significantly improved compared with preoperative scores (P<0.001). Preoperative Physical Component Summary Scale (PCS) and Mental Component Summary Scale (MCS) scores were negatively associated with extraversion (E score) (B=-0.986 and -0.967, respectively, both P<0.05). Postoperative PCS and State Anxiety Inventory (SAI) scores were negatively associated with neuroticism (N score; B=-0.137 and -0.991, respectively, both P<0.05). Postoperative MCS, SAI, Trait Anxiety Inventory (TAI), and BAI scores were also negatively associated with the N score (B=-0.367, -0.107, -0.281, and -0.851, respectively, all P<0.05). The KSS function score at the sixth month after surgery was negatively associated with TAI and N scores (B=-0.315 and -0.532, respectively, both P<0.05), but positively associated with the E score (B=0.215, P<0.05). The postoperative KSS joint score was positively associated with postoperative PCS (B=0.356, P<0.05). In conclusion, for TKR patients, the scores used for evaluating recovery of knee function and HRQL after 6 months are inversely associated with the presence of negative emotions.

MiRNA-378 controls cell proliferation in rabbit umbilical cord mesenymal stem cells

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are known to have the ability to differentiate into various lineages of mesenchymal tissue. They are widely distributed in a variety of tissues in the body and are also present in the foetal environment. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a fundamental class of biological molecules that play a crucial role in development. In this study, microRNA-378 and its predicted target (Sufu, suppressor of fused homolog) were used to study proliferation of rabbit umbilical cord mesenymal stem cells, luciferase reporter assay was used to assess and confirm the binding sequence of 3'untranslated region between microRNA-378 and Sufu. The results showed that miRNA-378 overexpression reduced Sufu gene, and promoted cell proliferation of rabbit umbilical cord mesenymal stem cells via cell viability and BrdU testing, which molecular mechanisms were down-regulation of apoptosis genes after miRNA-378 overexpression. In conclusion, our research shows that the microRNA-378 promoted the cell proliferation of rabbit umbilical cord mesenymal stem cells, and this mechanism was miRNA-378 reduced the expression of Sufu, increased cell proliferation.

[Second-line treatment for metastatic or locally advanced gastric cancer]

Gastric cancer is one of the major causes of cancer-related deaths. Many patients with metastatic gastric cancer after first-line chemotherapy received salvage chemotherapy in routine clinical practice. Recent phase Ⅲ trials demonstrated substantial prolongation of overall survival to support this chemotherapy or targeted therapy as a second-line treatment. Both ramucirumab monotherapy and ramucirumab plus paclitaxel were approved by FDA in patients with previously treated advanced gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma. In addition, paclitaxel, irinotecan, or docetaxel monotherapy is also recommended for preferred regimens. This review will summarize chemotherapy or targeted therapy as a second-line treatment in advanced gastric cancer.

[Clinical application of MRI histogram in evaluation of muscle fatty infiltration]

OBJECTIVE

To describe a method based on analysis of the histogram of intensity values produced from the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for quantifying the degree of fatty infiltration.

METHODS

The study included 25 patients with dystrophinopathy. All the subjects underwent muscle MRI test at thigh level. The histogram M values of 250 muscles adjusted for subcutaneous fat, representing the degree of fatty infiltration, were compared with the expert visual reading using the modified Mercuri scale.

RESULTS

There was a significant positive correlation between the histogram M values and the scores of visual reading (r=0.854, P<0.001). The distinct pattern of muscle involvement detected in the patients with dystrophinopathy in our study of histogram M values was similar to that of visual reading and results in literature. The histogram M values had stronger correlations with the clinical data than the scores of visual reading as follows: the correlations with age (r=0.730, P<0.001) and (r=0.753, P<0.001); with strength of knee extensor (r=-0.468, P=0.024) and (r=-0.460, P=0.027) respectively. Meanwhile, the histogram M values analysis had better repeatability than visual reading with the interclass correlation coefficient was 0.998 (95% CI: 0.997-0.998, P<0.001) and 0.958 (95% CI: 0.946-0.967, P<0.001) respectively.

CONCLUSION

Histogram M values analysis of MRI with the advantages of repeatability and objectivity can be used to evaluate the degree of muscle fatty infiltration.

Mechanochemical synthesis in the Li-Mg-N-D system under deuterium gas: a neutron diffraction study

The Mg(NH2)2/2LiH mixture is considered as one of the most valuable reversible hydrogen storage systems for feeding PEM fuel cells. In this paper, we investigate the mechanochemical synthesis in the Li-Mg-N-H system under deuterium gas, using Li3N and Mg as reactants, and the structural and sorption properties of the intermediate and final products mainly by means of neutron powder diffraction. Mechanochemistry leads to the end formation of amorphous Mg(ND2)2, which crystallizes upon heating above 425 K. During synthesis, a novel cation-mixed nitride/imide phase of simplified composition Li3MgN2D has been unveiled as the intermediate phase. It crystallizes in the cubic disordered anti-fluorite type structure (S.G. Fm3[combining macron]m) with a lattice parameter of 4.996 Å at room temperature. Deuterium absorption in this compound occurs through an original solid solution type mechanism ending with the imide compound β-Li2MgN2D2. The conjoint use of mechanochemistry under deuterium gas and in situ neutron diffraction techniques offers new avenues for better characterization of the efficient hydrogen storage materials. In particular, this work highlights the unexpected role of intermediate nitride/imide phases in the Li-Mg-N-H system.

[Corneal biomechanical properties in keratoconic and normal eyes]

OBJECTIVE

To compare the corneal biomechanical properties of keratoconic and normal eyes, and to explore the changing characteristics in keratoconic eyes.

METHODS

Case-control study. Thirty-two keratoconic subjects(41 eyes)and 41 subjects(41 eyes)with normal corneas were enrolled in this study. Scheimpflug noncontact tonometry(Corvis ST)was performed to measure the length of Appl 1(1st A length), velocity of Appl 1(Vin), length of Appl 2(2nd A length), velocity of Appl 2(Vout), deformation amplitude(DA), peak distance, and radius. Comparison of the biomechanical property values between the keratoconic and normal eyes was performed using One-Way ANOVA. Pearson or Spearman correlations were used to evaluate the relationship between corneal biomechanical properties and corneal morphology parameters. The areas under ROC curves of the biomechanical properties of Corvis ST were calculated.

RESULTS

In the keratoconic group, the values of Vin, Vout, and DA were(0.201±0.268),(0.463±0.121), and(1.146±0.113)mm, respectively, which were obviously greater than the normal group[(0.151±0.017),(0.418±0.060), and(1.146 ± 0.113)mm, respectively; F=6.028, 20.724, 10.606, P=0.016, 0.000, 0.001]. The radius in the keratoconic eyes was(5.898 ± 0.976)mm, apparently shorter than the normal eyes[(7.012 ± 0.728)mm; F=5.277, P=0.023]. In the keratoconic eyes, there were significant correlations between the 1st A length, Vout, DA, radius and the thickness of the thinnest cornea(r=0.330,-0.490,-0.482, 0.676, P=0.035, 0.001, 0.001, 0.000). There were significant correlations between the DA, radius and the anterior surface refractive power Km(r=0.751,-0.528, P=0.044, 0.019). The Vin, Vout, DA, and radius had statistically significant correlations with the maximum posterior surface elevation(r=0.475,-0.552,-0.399, 0.273, P=0.021, 0.015, 0.001, 0.000). The areas under ROC curves of the radius, DA, Vout, and Vin were all greater than 0.9.

CONCLUSIONS

There were obvious changes of corneal biomechanical properties in keratoconic eyes compared with normal eyes. The radius showed a better sensitivity for the change of corneal biomechanical properties and a major reference value for the diagnosis of keratoconus. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2016, 52:669-673).

Depinning of domain walls in permalloy nanowires with asymmetric notches

Effective control of the domain wall (DW) motion along the magnetic nanowires is of great importance for fundamental research and potential application in spintronic devices. In this work, a series of permalloy nanowires with an asymmetric notch in the middle were fabricated with only varying the width (d) of the right arm from 200 nm to 1000 nm. The detailed pinning and depinning processes of DWs in these nanowires have been studied by using focused magneto-optic Kerr effect (FMOKE) magnetometer, magnetic force microscopy (MFM) and micromagnetic simulation. The experimental results unambiguously exhibit the presence of a DW pinned at the notch in a typical sample with d equal to 500 nm. At a certain range of 200 nm < d < 500 nm, both the experimental and simulated results show that the DW can maintain or change its chirality randomly during passing through the notch, resulting in two DW depinning fields. Those two depinning fields have opposite d dependences, which may be originated from different potential well/barrier generated by the asymmetric notch with varying d.

[Influencing factors on healthy life expectancy in adults in Beijing]

OBJECTIVE

To understand the main influencing factors related to healthy life expectancy (HALE) among adults in Beijing.

METHODS

The calculation on health-adjusted life expectancy was performed by Sullivan METHODS. Data from the self-reported health survey program on adults in Beijing 2012 was gathered. Hierarchical ordered probit model was used to estimate the severity-weighted prevalence of disability and then combined with the period life table to obtain the HALE. Factors associated with the severity-adjusted prevalence of the disabled were analyzed under the generalized additive models (GAM).

RESULTS

The main influencing factors of HALE would include age (t=40.351, P<0.001), sex (t=9.689, P<0.001), levels of education (t=5.021, P< 0.001), exercise (t=5.487, P<0.001) and alcohol intake (t=-2.380, P=0.017) etc. The influence of per capita monthly income (χ(2) =3.949, P=0.044) showed as non-linear.

CONCLUSIONS

Levels of income would directly influence the severity-weighted prevalence of the disability, which also affecting the HALE. Programs on improving healthy life style and health care in women should be promoted.

[Serum γ-glutamyltransferase in obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome and its role in predicting concomitant diabetes mellitus]

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association of obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome(OSAHS) with serum γ-glutamyltransferase(γ-GT) and whether serum γ-GT is an independent predictor for diabetes mellitus(DM) in OSAHS patients.

METHODS

A total of 172 Han Chinese subjects were enrolled and divided into three groups based on full-night polysomnography(PSG): severe OSAHS group(AHI>30 events/h), mild to moderate OSAHS group (5<AHI≤30 events/h) and control group(AHI<5 events/h). Serum γ-GT levels were measured after an overnight fast and measurements were compared among groups.Stepwise multiple linear regressions were conducted to determine the independent linear correlation of serum γ-GT with PSG parameters.In subgroup analysis, serum γ-GT levels were further compared between OSAHS with DM and without DM group.DM prevalence was compared between high-γ-GT and low-γ-GT OSAHS group.Binary logistic regressions were conducted to determine the role of serum γ-GT in predicting DM prevalence in OSAHS patients.

RESULTS

Serum γ-GT levels in OSAHS groups were higher than those in control group(25.00, 34.00 and 42.50 IU/L respectively in control, mild to moderate and severe OSAHS group, P=0.001). Serum γ-GT levels were positively correlated with oxygen desaturation index(ODI) in stepwise multiple linear regressions(Beta=0.185, P=0.024). In subgroup analyses, serum γ-GT levels were higher in OSAHS patients with DM than in those without DM (P=0.006). The prevalence of DM was higher in high-γ-GT than in low-γ-GT OSAHS group (P=0.030). Logistic regressions showed that serum γ-GT was an independent predictor for DM prevalence in OSAHS patients(OR=1.011, P=0.033).

CONCLUSION

Serum γ-GT level increases with OSAHS severity and correlates independently with oxygen desaturation during sleep.Serum γ-GT is an independent predictor for DM prevalence in OSAHS patients.

The effects of perceived USB-delay for sensor and embedded system development

Perceiving delay in computer input devices is a problem which gets even more eminent when being used in healthcare applications and/or in small, embedded systems. Therefore, the amount of delay found as acceptable when using computer input devices was investigated in this paper. A device was developed to perform a benchmark test for the perception of delay. The delay can be set from 0 to 999 milliseconds (ms) between a receiving computer and an available USB-device. The USB-device can be a mouse, a keyboard or some other type of USB-connected input device. Feedback from performed user tests with 36 people form the basis for the determination of time limitations for the USB data processing in microprocessors and embedded systems without users' noticing the delay. For this paper, tests were performed with a personal computer and a common computer mouse, testing the perception of delays between 0 and 500 ms. The results of our user tests show that perceived delays up to 150 ms were acceptable and delays larger than 300 ms were not acceptable at all.

Identification of QTLs for resistant starch and total alkaloid content in brown and polished rice

An F3 population consisting of 117 F2:3 families derived from a cross between two varieties of rice, Gongmi No. 3 and Diantun 502, with a large difference in their resistant starch and total alkaloid content, was used for quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping. Two QTLs of resistant starch for rice (qRS7-1, qRS7-2) were identified in a linkage group on chromosome 7, which could explain phenotypic variance from 7.6 to 17.3%, due to additive effects for resistant starch from Gongmi No. 3 or over-dominance effects for qRS7-2 of the marker interval (RM3404-RM478) on chromosome 7 from Gongmi No. 3, accounting for 13.8-17.3% of the phenotypic variance. Two QTLs of total alkaloids for brown rice (qALb7-1, qALb7-2) were identified in the same linkage group, which could explain phenotypic variance from 7.7 and 19.3%, respectively, due to dominance or over-dominance effects for total alkaloids on chromosome 7 from Diantun 502. To our knowledge, these are the first QTLs to be identified, which are related to resistant starch and total alkaloid content in rice. These results are beneficial for understanding the genetic basis of, as well as for developing markers linked with, resistant starch and total alkaloids of functional components for marker-assisted selection breeding in rice.

[Correlation between high risk type human papillomavirus E6/E7 mRNA and cervical cancer]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the correlation between the positive rate of high risk human papillomavirus(HPV)mRNA E6/E7 and cervical cancer, and provide evidence for the prevention and treatment of cervical cancer.

METHODS

A total of 100 cervical cancer cases and 100 healthy controls were selected in our hospital from January 2015 to December 2015. The fluorescence quantitative PCR and pathological examination on HPV E6/E7 mRNA were carried out. The correlation between HPV E6/E7 mRNA and cervical squamous epithelial lesions were analyzed.

RESULTS

In case group, the positive rate of HPV E6/E7 mRNA was 76.0%(76/100). In control group, the positive rate was 13.0%(13/100). The positive rate in case group was significantly higher than that in control group, and the difference was statistically significant(χ(2)=24.522, P<0.001). The positive predictive value and negative predictive value of the two groups were compared, and the difference was not significant(P>0.05). The positive rate of HPV E6/E7 mRNA was significantly higher than high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion(SIL)rate(26.1%), low-grade SIL rate(17.6%)and atypical squamous cell hyperplasia rate(6.7%), the difference was statistically significant(χ(2)=7.615, P= 0.001; χ(2) =9.114, P=0.001; χ(2)=18.241, P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The detection rate of HPV E6/E7 mRNA in cervical cancer patients was high. And with the increased severity of cervical squamous epithelial lesions, the positive rate of HPV E6/E7 mRNA increased.

Probe of local impurity states by bend resistance measurements in graphene cross junctions

We report on low-temperature transport measurements on four-terminal cross junction devices fabricated from high-quality graphene grown by chemical vapor deposition. At high magnetic fields, the bend resistance reveals pronounced peak structures at the quantum Hall plateau transition, which can be attributed to the edge state transport through the junctions. We further demonstrate that the bend resistance is drastically affected by the presence of local impurity states in the junction regions, and exhibits an unusual asymmetric behavior with respect to the magnetic field direction. The observations can be understood in a model taking into account the combination of the edge transport and an asymmetric scatterer. Our results demonstrate that a graphene cross junction may serve as a sensitive probe of local impurity states in graphene at the nanoscale.

Raf-kinase inhibitor protein attenuates microglia inflammation in an in vitro model of intracerebral hemorrhage

Microglia mediated neuroinflammation plays a crucial role in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Raf kinase inhibitor protein (RKIP), a member of the phosphatidylethanolamine-binding protein (PEBP) family, is a negative regulator of inflammatory responses. However, the expression and anti-inflammatory effects of RKIP in microglia after ICH have not been reported. Therefore, in the current study, we investigated the effects of RKIP on inflammatory responses in erythrocyte lysate-treated BV2 microglia. Furthermore, we analyzed the detailed molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory effects of RKIP in microglia. Our results showed that the expression level of RKIP was significantly decreased by erythrocyte lysate treatment in BV2 microglia. Overexpression of RKIP inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory molecules. In addition, overexpression of RKIP attenuated neuronal cell death induced by activated microglia. Moreover, RKIP suppressed the activation of NF-κB signaling pathway in erythrocyte lysis-treated BV2 cells. In conclusion, these data suggest that overexpression of RKIP attenuated microglia inflammation through inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway in erythrocyte lysis-treated BV2 cells. The present study provides evidence that RKIP may be used as an effective molecular target for the treatment of ICH.

Effects of maternal folic acid supplementation on gene methylation and being small for gestational age

BACKGROUND

Being small for gestational age (SGA), a foetal growth abnormality, has a long-lasting impact on childhood health. Its aetiology and underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Underlying epigenetic changes of imprinted genes have emerged as a potential pathological pathway because they may be associated with growth, including SGA. As a common methyl donor, folic acid (FA) is essential for DNA methylation, synthesis and repair, and FA supplementation is widely recommended for women planning pregnancy. The present study aimed to investigate the inter-relationships among methylation levels of two imprinted genes [H19 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and MEST DMRs], maternal FA supplementation and SGA.

METHODS

We conducted a case-control study. Umbilical cord blood was taken from 39 SGA infants and 49 controls whose birth weights are appropriate for gestational age (AGA). DNA methylation levels of H19 and MEST DMRs were determined by an analysis of mass array quantitative methylation.

RESULTS

Statistically significantly higher methylation levels were observed at sites 7.8, 9 and 17.18 of H19 (P = 0.030, 0.016 and 0.050, respectively) in the SGA infants compared to the AGA group. In addition, the association was stronger in male births where the mothers took FA around conception at six H19 sites (P = 0.004, 0.005, 0.048, 0.002, 0.021 and 0.005, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Methylation levels at H19 DMRs were higher in SGA infants compared to AGA controls. It appears that the association may be influenced by maternal peri-conception FA supplementation and also be sex-specific.

[Factors influencing glucose metabolism in young obese subjects with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the factors influencing glucose metabolism in young obese subjects with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS).

METHODS

A total of 106 young obese subjects[18-44 years old, body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m(2)]were enrolled and divided into two groups based on full-night polysomnography (PSG), OSAHS group[apnea hypopnea index (AHI) ≥5 events/h]and non-OSAHS group (AHI<5 events/h). Oral glucose tolerance-insulin releasing test (OGTT-IRT) was performed and serum glycosylated hemoglobin A1 (HbA1c) levels were measured after an overnight fast. Homeostasis model assessment-IR (HOMA-IR), Matsuda insulin sensitivity index (MI), homeostasis model assessment-β (HOMA-β), the early phase insulinogenic index (ΔI(30)/ΔG(30)), total area under the curve of insulin in 180 minutes (AUC-I180) and oral disposition index (DIo) were calculated to evaluate insulin resistance and pancreatic β cell function. Stepwise multiple linear regressions were conducted to determine the independent linear correlation of glucose measurements with PSG parameters.

RESULTS

Prevalence of diabetes was higher in OSAHS than in non-OSAHS group (22.0% vs 4.3%, P=0.009). OGTT 0, 30, 60 min glucose and HbA1c levels were higher in OSAHS group than those in non-OASHS group (all P<0.05). DIo were lower in OSAHS group than those in non-OASHS group (P=0.024), HOMA-IR, MI, HOMA-β, ΔI(30)/ΔG(30), and AUC-I(180) were similar between two groups (all P>0.05). In stepwise multiple linear regressions, OGTT 0, 30 and 60 min glucose were positively correlated with oxygen desaturation index (ODI) (β=0.243, 0.273 and 0.371 respectively, all P<0.05). HOMA-β was negatively correlated with AHI (β=-0.243, P=0.011). DIo was negatively correlated with ODI (β=-0.234, P=0.031).

CONCLUSION

OSAHS worsens glucose metabolism and compensatory pancreatic β-cell function in young obese subjects, which could probably be attributed to sleep apnea related oxygen desaturation during sleep.

[Clinical value of Short Form-36 and clinical measures in a prospective cohort study of ankylosing spondylitis patients]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical value of Short Form-36 (SF-36) questionnaire and the most commonly used clinical measures in a prospective cohort study of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients.

METHODS

A total of 517 AS patients were collected from the Department of Rheumatology, Chinese PLA General Hospital from August 2013 to September 2015. The Quality of Life (QoL) was assessed by SF-36 questionnaire and compared with the general population. The correlations between QoL and clinical measures of AS, including the Bath AS disease activity index (BASDAI), Bath AS functional index (BASFI), Bath AS metrology index (BASMI) et al, were analyzed.

RESULTS

BASDAI and BASFI were significantly correlated with SF-36 scores (r>0.3, P<0.01). Logistic multiple regression analysis showed that BASDAI, BASFI, BASMI and education had close correlation with the baseline global QoL, physical and mental health. Among these clinical measures, BASDAI variation showed the most important influence on the change of global QoL, physical health and mental health (OR=0.235, 0.209, 0.125; P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

SF-36 can objectively reflect the QoL of patients with AS. Clinical measures such as BASDAI and BASFI show great application value in this prospective cohort study of AS patients.

Involvement of dorsal striatal α1-containing GABAA receptors in methamphetamine-associated rewarding memories

Rewarding memories induced by addictive drugs may contribute to persistent drug-seeking behaviors, which is an important contributing factor to drug addiction. However, the biological mechanisms underlying drug-associated rewarding memories have not yet been fully understood, especially the new synthetic drugs, such as amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS). In this study, using the rat-conditioned place preference (CPP) model, a classic animal model for the reward-associated effects of addictive drugs, we found that the expression level of GABAA α1 subunits was significantly decreased in the dorsal striatum (Dstr) after conditioned methamphetamine (METH) pairing, and no significant differences were observed in the other four rewarding memory-associated areas (medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), nucleus accumbens (NAc), amygdala (Amy), and dorsal hippocampus (DH)). Intra-Dstr injection of either the GABAA receptor agonist muscimol or the specific α1GABAA receptor-preferring benzodiazepine (BDZ) agonist zolpidem significantly abolished METH CPP formation. Thus, this study extends previous findings by showing that GABAA receptors, particularly the α1-containing GABAA receptors, may be strongly implicated in METH-associated rewarding memories. This work provides us with a new perspective on the goal of treating ATS addiction.

Relationship between serum leptin levels and non-small cell lung carcinoma: a meta-analysis

In this study, we analyzed the association between serum leptin levels and non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). By examining English and Chinese databases, we identified potential relevant studies for statistical analysis. Human-associated case-control studies evaluating the association between serum leptin levels and NSCLC according to the random-effect model were retrieved and extracted data were statistically analyzed. We identified 7 case-control studies evaluating the correlation between serum leptin levels and NSCLC, which included 705 subjects (390 NSCLC patients and 315 healthy participants). Negative associations were investigated between serum leptin levels and NSCLC [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.96, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.13-1.79, P = 0.023). Ethnicity-stratified analysis revealed there was no elevated leptin serum levels in NSCLC development in both Asians (SMD = 0.34, 95%CI = -0.10-0.79, P = 0.132) and Caucasians (SMD = 1.42, 95%CI = -0.09-2.93, P = 0.064). Sample size-stratified analysis of the association between serum leptin levels and NSCLC were found in studies of small sample size (SMD = 0.73, 95%CI = 0.04-1.41, P = 0.038), but not in studies of large sample size (SMD = 1.24, 95%CI = -0.52-3.01, P = 0.166). In the method-stratified subgroup analysis, serum leptin level was not correlated with NSCLC using a immunoradiometric assay method (SMD = 0.82, 95%CI = -1.38-3.03, P = 0.465). Determining the levels of the blood-based marker leptin may provide predictive information for NSCLC diagnosis.

Construction of a hepatocellular carcinoma cell line that stably expresses stathmin with a Ser25 phosphorylation site mutation

We constructed hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells that stably express stathmin with a Ser25 phosphorylation site mutation (stathmin S25A). We used the polymerase chain reaction for site-directed mutagenesis, constructed a stathmin S25A plasmid, and verified the results by restriction enzyme cleavage and sequencing technology. Using the liposome transfection method, stathmin wild-type and S25A HCCLM6 cells were established, which were identified by western blotting. The sequencing report of the stathmin S25A plasmid showed that stathmin serine at position 25 had mutated into alanine. Stable cells transfected with stathmin wild-type and S25A plasmids were constructed. Using western blotting, we confirmed that the expression level of stathmin pS25 in the stathmin S25A cells was reduced than that in the stathmin wild-type and HCCLM6 control cells (P < 0.05). We constructed stathmin S25A HCCLM6 cells, which offer an experimental model for further investigation of the molecular mechanism of stathmin phosphorylation in hepatocarcinogenesis.

Patient delay in the diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis in China: findings of case detection projects

OBJECTIVE

1) To assess patient delay among new smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) patients in accessing health services in seven FIDELIS (Fund for Innovative DOTS Expansion through Local Initiatives to Stop TB) projects from 2003 to 2008 in China; 2) to compare treatment delay by province; and 3) to assess factors associated with delay.

METHOD

Records of new smear-positive PTB patients were reviewed. Data sources were the consultation book, laboratory register, patient record, treatment card and the PWLAHS (people with limited access to health services) evaluation form. Data were collected using a standard questionnaire, cross-checked by staff from the sites and by the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union) and analysed by The Union.

RESULTS

Of the 75 401 new smear-positive PTB patients included in the study, 63-89% were PWLAHS. The average gross domestic product of the project sites and at national level were respectively US$557 and US$998. The median patient delay was 93 days (range 68-128). Delays were longer among females, older patients, rural residents and PWLAHS. Delayed access to health services was significantly associated with a greater number of symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Patient delay in accessing health care in China was lengthy; TB care and control needs to be improved.

Ruxolitinib in corticosteroid-refractory graft-versus-host disease after allogeneic stem cell transplantation: a multicenter survey

Despite major improvements in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation over the past decades, corticosteroid-refractory (SR) acute (a) and chronic (c) graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) cause high mortality. Preclinical evidence indicates the potent anti-inflammatory properties of the JAK1/2 inhibitor ruxolitinib. In this retrospective survey, 19 stem cell transplant centers in Europe and the United States reported outcome data from 95 patients who had received ruxolitinib as salvage therapy for SR-GVHD. Patients were classified as having SR-aGVHD (n=54, all grades III or IV) or SR-cGVHD (n=41, all moderate or severe). The median number of previous GVHD-therapies was 3 for both SR-aGVHD (1-7) and SR-cGVHD (1-10). The overall response rate was 81.5% (44/54) in SR-aGVHD including 25 complete responses (46.3%), while for SR-cGVHD the ORR was 85.4% (35/41). Of those patients responding to ruxolitinib, the rate of GVHD-relapse was 6.8% (3/44) and 5.7% (2/35) for SR-aGVHD and SR-cGVHD, respectively. The 6-month-survival was 79% (67.3-90.7%, 95% confidence interval (CI)) and 97.4% (92.3-100%, 95% CI) for SR-aGVHD and SR-cGVHD, respectively. Cytopenia and cytomegalovirus-reactivation were observed during ruxolitinib treatment in both SR-aGVHD (30/54, 55.6% and 18/54, 33.3%) and SR-cGVHD (7/41, 17.1% and 6/41, 14.6%) patients. Ruxolitinib may constitute a promising new treatment option for SR-aGVHD and SR-cGVHD that should be validated in a prospective trial.

ICAM-1 suppresses tumor metastasis by inhibiting macrophage M2 polarization through blockade of efferocytosis

Efficient clearance of apoptotic cells (efferocytosis) can profoundly influence tumor-specific immunity. Tumor-associated macrophages are M2-polarized macrophages that promote key processes in tumor progression. Efferocytosis stimulates M2 macrophage polarization and contributes to cancer metastasis, but the signaling mechanism underlying this process is unclear. Intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) is a transmembrane glycoprotein member of the immunoglobulin superfamily, which has been implicated in mediating cell–cell interaction and outside-in cell signaling during the immune response. We report that ICAM-1 expression is inversely associated with macrophage infiltration and the metastasis index in human colon tumors by combining Oncomine database analysis and immunohistochemistry for ICAM-1. Using a colon cancer liver metastasis model in ICAM-1-deficient (ICAM-1^−/−) mice and their wild-type littermates, we found that loss of ICAM-1 accelerated liver metastasis of colon carcinoma cells. Moreover, ICAM-1 deficiency increased M2 macrophage polarization during tumor progression. We further demonstrated that ICAM-1 deficiency in macrophages led to promotion of efferocytosis of apoptotic tumor cells through activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase/Akt signaling pathway. More importantly, coculture of ICAM-1^−/− macrophages with apoptotic cancer cells resulted in an increase of M2-like macrophages, which was blocked by an efferocytosis inhibitor. Our findings demonstrate a novel role for ICAM-1 in suppressing M2 macrophage polarization via downregulation of efferocytosis in the tumor microenvironment, thereby inhibiting metastatic tumor progression.

A transfection method of PS-asODNs targeting ANGPTL4 in multicellular structures of hepatocarcinoma cell line

To find an efficient transfection method for metastatic cancer cells, we established a three-dimensional (3D) growth model for solid tumor cells to mimic the metastatic cancer cells in the vascular system and compared the efficiency of several transfection methods in vitro. We found that it was optimal to transfect two-dimensional cells in vitro and detach them for 3D growth 6 h later. The transfection efficiency of this method was high, and the results were reliable. This method can be used to deliver several types of small molecules into the 3D metastatic cell model. Using this method, we increased our understanding of why drugs that are effective in vitro cannot treat the disease in vivo. If this phenomenon occurs due to the resistance of the cells to the drug, other treatment agents for the disease must be identified. However, if this occurs because the agent cannot reach the cells inside the 3D aggregate, we can improve the delivery efficiency by using methods that target the agent to all cells. Briefly, the method introduced in this study will contribute to future research focusing on the 3D metastatic cell model as well as on drug development for various solid tumors.

Involvement of AP-1 in p38MAPK signaling pathway in osteoblast apoptosis induced by high glucose

We investigated the effect of p38MAPK/AP-1 (activator protein-1) signaling on the apoptosis of osteoblasts induced by high glucose. A lentivirus vector of small hairpin RNA (shRNA) targeting p38MAPK was constructed in vitro. Osteoblasts MC3T3-E1 cultured in vitro were treated with vehicle, high glucose, p38MAPK-shRNA transfection, p38MAPK inhibitor, and unrelated shRNA transfection. Apoptosis, protein levels of p38MAPK, and activities of AP-1 in MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts were measured using TUNEL and flow cytometry, Western blot analysis, and an electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Compared with the vehicle group, high glucose induced apoptosis of MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts and activated p38MAPK and AP-1. p38MAPK-shRNA transfection blocked the effect of high glucose stimulation, and the p38MAPK inhibitor showed similar effects as those observed in p38MAPK transfection. Unrelated shRNA had no effect on these changes in MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts induced by high glucose. Therefore, our results suggest that p38MAPK-shRNA reduce apoptosis of MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts induced by high glucose by inhibiting the p38MAPK-AP-1 signaling pathway.

Intratympanic Contrast in the Evaluation of Menière Disease: Understanding the Limits

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Studies describing endolymphatic hydrops in Menière disease after off-label intratympanic gadolinium-based contrast have been limited by long acquisition times. We aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of post-intratympanic imaging on a 3T MR imaging system within a clinically tolerable acquisition time and to address potential pitfalls in acquisition or interpretation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

FDA Investigational New Drug 115,342 and institutional review board approval were obtained for intratympanic injection of 8-fold diluted Gd-DTPA into the more symptomatic ear of 6 adults with Menière disease. 3T MR imaging was performed using a 3-inch surface coil before and up to 28 hours after injection using FLAIR to define the nonenhancing endolymphatic space within the enhancing perilymph. Variable FLAIR TI images were used to determine the impact of fluid-suppression on interpretation. Image quality was assessed for perilymphatic and extralabyrinthine contrast enhancement, definition of endolymphatic anatomy, and other anatomic variants or pathologic findings.

RESULTS

The surface coil afforded 0.375 × 0.375 mm in-plane FLAIR resolution in <4 minutes 30 seconds, sufficient to perceive the nonenhancing spiral lamina, interscalar septa, and endolymphatic structures. Coronal views highlighted a potential interpretation pitfall of vestibular endolymphatic distention overestimation due to partial volume averaging. Varying FLAIR TI resulted in visible changes in the perception of the cochlear endolymphatic space. CSF enhancement was detectable at the internal auditory canal fundus on the injected side in half of the patients, which may confound interpretation.

CONCLUSIONS

Using a surface coil preserves high resolution within a clinically acceptable acquisition time. Pitfalls remain regarding the interpretation of these images and optimizing protocols across platforms in the absence of a clear internal reference for standardization.

Model-Based Design of a Decision Tree for Treating HER2+ Cancers Based on Genetic and Protein Biomarkers

Human cancers are incredibly diverse with regard to molecular aberrations, dependence on oncogenic signaling pathways, and responses to pharmacological intervention. We wished to assess how cellular dependence on the canonical PI3K vs. MAPK pathways within HER2+ cancers affects responses to combinations of targeted therapies, and biomarkers predictive of their activity. Through an integrative analysis of mechanistic model simulations and in vitro cell line profiling, we designed a six-arm decision tree to stratify treatment of HER2+ cancers using combinations of targeted agents. Activating mutations in the PI3K and MAPK pathways (PIK3CA and KRAS), and expression of the HER3 ligand heregulin determined sensitivity to combinations of inhibitors against HER2 (lapatinib), HER3 (MM-111), AKT (MK-2206), and MEK (GSK-1120212; trametinib), in addition to the standard of care trastuzumab (Herceptin). The strategy used to identify effective combinations and predictive biomarkers in HER2-expressing tumors may be more broadly extendable to other human cancers.