Preparation, characterization, and pharmacokinetics in swine of a florfenicol enteric formulation prepared using hot-melt extrusion technology

The objective of this work was to manufacture an enteric formulation of florfenicol (FF) using hot-melt extrusion (HME) technology and to evaluate its in vitro dissolution and in vivo pharmacokinetics. For the HME process, hypromellose acetate succinate LG (HPMCAS-LG) was the enteric polymer mixed with FF, and the two components were extruded with a standard screw configuration at a speed of 50 rpm. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) were performed to characterize the HME extrudate. The release percentage of the enteric formulation in the acidic stage was <10% of the loaded FF, whereas that in the phosphate buffer stage was >80%. Pharmacokinetic evaluations in swine revealed that the enteric formulation had a longer t_1/2λ and MRT than commercially available FF powder (FULAIKA^® ), indicating that the novel formulation exhibited enteric and sustained release properties. Compared with the commercial product, the relative bioavailability of the enteric formulation reached up to 117.2%. This study suggests that this formulation may have potential for future commercialization.

Combined Forward-Backward Asymmetry Measurements in Top-Antitop Quark Production at the Tevatron

The CDF and D0 experiments at the Fermilab Tevatron have measured the asymmetry between yields of forward- and backward-produced top and antitop quarks based on their rapidity difference and the asymmetry between their decay leptons. These measurements use the full data sets collected in proton-antiproton collisions at a center-of-mass energy of sqrt[s]=1.96  TeV. We report the results of combinations of the inclusive asymmetries and their differential dependencies on relevant kinematic quantities. The combined inclusive asymmetry is A_{FB}^{tt[over ¯]}=0.128±0.025. The combined inclusive and differential asymmetries are consistent with recent standard model predictions.

[Significance of Hypoxia-related microRNA for Estimating the Cause of Mechanical Asphyxia Death]

Under hypoxia condition, microRNA （miRNA） can interact with transcription factors for regulating the cell metabolism, angiogenesis, erythropoiesis, cellular proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. The biological processes above may play an important role in mechanical asphyxia death. This article reviews the regulating function of miRNA under hypoxia condition and the influence of hypoxia to biosynthesis of miRNA, which may provide some new ideas to the research of miRNA on determining the cause of mechanical asphyxia death in the field of forensic medicine.

Network based subcellular proteomics in monocyte membrane revealed novel candidate genes involved in osteoporosis

In this study, label-free-based quantitative subcellular proteomics integrated with network analysis highlighted several candidate genes including P4HB, ITGB1, CD36, and ACTN1 that may be involved in osteoporosis. All of them are predicted as significant membrane proteins with high confidence and enriched in bone-related biological process. The results were further verified in transcriptomic and genomic levels.

INTRODUCTION

Osteoporosis is a metabolic bone disease mainly characterized by low bone mineral density (BMD). As the precursors of osteoclasts, peripheral blood monocytes (PBMs) are supported to be important candidates for identifying genes related to osteoporosis. We performed subcellular proteomics study to identify significant membrane proteins that involved in osteoporosis.

METHODS

To investigate the association between monocytes, membrane proteins, and osteoporosis, we performed label-free quantitative subcellular proteomics in 59 male subjects with discordant BMD levels, with 30 high vs. 29 low BMD subjects. Subsequently, we performed integrated gene enrichment analysis, functional annotation, and pathway and network analysis based on multiple bioinformatics tools.

RESULTS

A total of 1070 membrane proteins were identified and quantified. By comparing the proteins' expression level, we found 36 proteins that were differentially expressed between high and low BMD groups. Protein localization prediction supported the notion that the differentially expressed proteins, P4HB (p = 0.0021), CD36 (p = 0.0104), ACTN1 (p = 0.0381), and ITGB1 (p = 0.0385), are significant membrane proteins. Functional annotation and pathway and network analysis highlighted that P4HB, ITGB1, CD36, and ACTN1 are enriched in osteoporosis-related pathways and terms including "ECM-receptor interaction," "calcium ion binding," "leukocyte transendothelial migration," and "reduction of cytosolic calcium levels." Results from transcriptomic and genomic levels provided additional supporting evidences.

CONCLUSION

Our study strongly supports the significance of the genes P4HB, ITGB1, CD36, and ACTN1 to the etiology of osteoporosis risk.

Intra-articular injection of microRNA-140 (miRNA-140) alleviates osteoarthritis (OA) progression by modulating extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis in rats

OBJECTIVE

Disruptions of extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis are key events in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA). MicroRNA-140 (miRNA-140) is expressed specifically in cartilage and regulates ECM-degrading enzymes. Our objective in this study was to determine if intra-articular injection of miRNA-140 can attenuate OA progression in rats.

DESIGN

miRNA-140 levels in human normal and OA cartilage derived chondrocytes and synovial fluid were assessed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). After primary human chondrocytes were transfected with miRNA-140 mimic or inhibitor, PCR and western blotting were performed to quantify Collagen II, MMP-13, and ADAMTS-5 expression. An OA model was induced surgically in rats, and subsequently treated with one single intra-articular injection of miRNA-140 agomir. At 4, 8, and 12 weeks after surgery, OA progression were evaluated macroscopically, histologically, and immunohistochemically in these rats.

RESULTS

miRNA-140 levels were significantly reduced in human OA cartilage derived chondrocytes and synovial fluid compared with normal chondrocytes and synovial fluid. Overexpressing miRNA-140 in primary human chondrocytes promoted Collagen II expression and inhibited MMP-13 and ADAMTS-5 expression. miRNA-140 levels in rat cartilage were significantly higher in the miRNA-140 agomir group than in the control group. Moreover, behavioural scores, chondrocyte numbers, cartilage thickness and Collagen II expression levels in cartilage were significantly higher, while pathological scores and MMP-13 and ADAMTS-5 expression levels were significantly lower in the miRNA-140 agomir group than in the control group.

CONCLUSION

Intra-articular injection of miRNA-140 can alleviate OA progression by modulating ECM homeostasis in rats, and may have potential as a new therapy for OA.

[Association between serum albumin and cognitive performance in elderly Chinese]

Objective: To explore association between serum albumin level and cognitive performance in elderly Chinese. Methods: All the subjects aged ≥65 years in the 8 longevity areas in Chinese longitudinal health longevity survey (CLHLS) were invited to participate the biomedical indepth CLHLS study, information about subjects' demographic characteristics, lifestyle, prevalence of diseases and health status was collected through household-interview. The cognitive performance was assessed with Mini Mental State Evaluation (MMSE) scale. Health examination was conducted by medical personnel and fasting venous blood samples were collected to detect the levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol, fasting glucose, creatine and blood albumin. MMSE score was compared and the trend was analyzed with generalized linear model. Association between albumin concentration and cognitive impairment was analyzed by logistic regression model. Results: Generalized linear model showed that adjusted MMSE score increased from 23.22 in the lowest quartile group to 25.07 in the highest quartile group (P for linear trend <0.001). Logistic regression analysis results showed that the higher albumin level was associated with the lower risk of cognitive impairment (P< 0.001), the OR decreased linearly with the increasing level of albumin (P<0.01), with the OR (95%CI) for the lower, higher and highest quartile groups was 0.64(0.45-0.91), 0.60(0.40-0.89) and 0.43(0.27-0.69), respectively, compared with the lowest quartile group. Conclusion: High level of serum albumin was associated with low risk of cognitive impairment.

Determination of the Spin and Parity of the Z_{c}(3900)

The spin and parity of the Z_{c}(3900)^{±} state are determined to be J^{P}=1^{+} with a statistical significance larger than 7σ over other quantum numbers in a partial wave analysis of the process e^{+}e^{-}→π^{+}π^{-}J/ψ. We use a data sample of 1.92  fb^{-1} accumulated at sqrt[s]=4.23 and 4.26 GeV with the BESIII experiment. When parametrizing the Z_{c}(3900)^{±} with a Flatté-like formula, we determine its pole mass M_{pole}=(3881.2±4.2_{stat}±52.7_{syst})  MeV/c^{2} and pole width Γ_{pole}=(51.8±4.6_{stat}±36.0_{syst})  MeV. We also measure cross sections for the process e^{+}e^{-}→Z_{c}(3900)^{+}π^{-}+c.c.→J/ψπ^{+}π^{-} and determine an upper limit at the 90% confidence level for the process e^{+}e^{-}→Z_{c}(4020)^{+}π^{-}+c.c.→J/ψπ^{+}π^{-}.

[Diagnosis and treatment of traumatic optic neuropathy with internal carotid artery trauma]

Objective: To summarize our experience in the diagnosis of internal carotid artery trauma in patients with traumatic optic neuropathy, and to make recommendations for the treatment. Methods: The clinic data of 6 cases who had traumatic optic neuropathy with internal carotid artery trauma and who were admited in Department of Otorhinolaryngology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from Jan. 2013 to Dec. 2015 were analyzed retrospectively. Results: All 6 cases were monocular blindness. Four cases did not undergo nasal endoscopic optic nerve decompression because of the diagnoses of internal carotid artery trauma. One case was diagnosed after nasal endoscopic optic nerve decompression because of fatal bleeding during the operation. One case was diagnosed because of late-onset recurrent epistaxis. Among the 6 cases with internal carotid artery trauma, 3 cases were successfully treated with endovascular interventional treatment (stent embolization was used in one case, Coil embolization was used in two cases), and 3 patients refused treatment. Conclusions: The patients with traumatic optic neuropathy have the possibility of severe carotid artery trauma. Endoscopic optic nerve decompression is not suitable for these cases. It should pay more attention to patients with traumatic optic neuropathy. For suspected cases, vascular-enhanced computed tomography screening and digital subtraction angiography should be recommended and patients should be treated by endovascular intervention in a timely manner.

Meta-analysis of hypertension and osteoporotic fracture risk in women and men

The present meta-analysis synthesized evidence from 10 articles encompassing 28 independent studies to verify the association between hypertension and osteoporotic fracture risk in women and men. Our results indicate that the risk of osteoporotic fracture among individuals with hypertension was higher than that among individuals without hypertension.

INTRODUCTION

Epidemiological studies have suggested that hypertension is related to osteoporotic fracture. However, discrepancies exist in the reported findings. In this study, a systematic review of relevant published articles was conducted to verify the association between hypertension and osteoporotic fracture risk in women and men.

METHODS

PubMed (1953_October 5th, 2016) and Embase (1974_October 5th, 2016) were systematically searched for relevant articles. Odds ratios (ORs) and confidence intervals (CIs) were derived using random effect models. Categorical, subgroup, heterogeneity, publication bias, and meta-regression analyses were conducted.

RESULTS

We analyzed 10 articles encompassing 28 independent studies, 1,430,431 participants, and 148,048 osteoporotic fracture cases. The risk of osteoporotic fracture among individuals with hypertension was higher (pooled OR = 1.33, 95% CI 1.25-1.40; I ² = 72.3%, P < 0.001) than that among individuals without hypertension. The association between hypertension and fracture risk was slightly stronger in women (pooled OR = 1.52, 95% CI 1.30-1.79) than in men (pooled OR = 1.35, 95% CI 1.26-1.44). Studies conducted in Asia revealed results that were consistent with those of studies performed in Europe.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypertension is associated with osteoporotic fracture risk. However, the biological mechanisms underlying the effect of hypertension on osteoporotic fracture remain to be elucidated.

Do regional brain volumes and major depressive disorder share genetic architecture? A study of Generation Scotland (n=19 762), UK Biobank (n=24 048) and the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (n=5766)

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a heritable and highly debilitating condition. It is commonly associated with subcortical volumetric abnormalities, the most replicated of these being reduced hippocampal volume. Using the most recent published data from Enhancing Neuroimaging Genetics through Meta-analysis (ENIGMA) consortium's genome-wide association study of regional brain volume, we sought to test whether there is shared genetic architecture between seven subcortical brain volumes and intracranial volume (ICV) and MDD. We explored this using linkage disequilibrium score regression, polygenic risk scoring (PRS) techniques, Mendelian randomisation (MR) analysis and BUHMBOX. Utilising summary statistics from ENIGMA and Psychiatric Genomics Consortium, we demonstrated that hippocampal volume was positively genetically correlated with MDD (r_G=0.46, P=0.02), although this did not survive multiple comparison testing. None of the other six brain regions studied were genetically correlated and amygdala volume heritability was too low for analysis. Using PRS analysis, no regional volumetric PRS demonstrated a significant association with MDD or recurrent MDD. MR analysis in hippocampal volume and MDD identified no causal association, however, BUHMBOX analysis identified genetic subgrouping in GS:SFHS MDD cases only (P=0.00281). In this study, we provide some evidence that hippocampal volume and MDD may share genetic architecture in a subgroup of individuals, albeit the genetic correlation did not survive multiple testing correction and genetic subgroup heterogeneity was not replicated. In contrast, we found no evidence to support a shared genetic architecture between MDD and other regional subcortical volumes or ICV.

[Recovery of hemoglobin level and blood pressure in workers unfit for duties at high altitude following relocation]

Objective: To determine the hemoglobin level and blood pressure and the factors that influence their recovery in relocated workers who were unfit for duties at high altitude. Methods: The physical examination data of 693 relocated workers who previously worked at high altitude were dynamically monitored from January 2006 to June 2015 in order to examine the recovery of hemoglobin level and blood pressure. Results: The rate of hemoglobin recovery was 81.37% among the 161 relocated workers with abnormal hemoglobin levels, and the rate of blood pressure recovery was 69.51% among the 164 relocated workers with abnormal blood pressure. The rates of hemoglobin and blood pressure recovery were decreased in individuals aged 40 years and older. The peak recovery time of hemoglobin was 11-15 months following relocation, and that of blood pressure was 5-7 months and 11-13 months following relocation. The half-year blood pressure recovery rate and 2-year hemoglobin recovery rate following relocation were significantly higher in workers who worked at 2500-3000 m altitude than in those at ≥3000 m (P<0.05) . Total cholesterol and educational level were factors that influence the half-year blood pressure recovery in relocated workers (P<0.05) . Conclusion: The rate of hemoglobin and blood pressure recovery are high among relocated workers who previously worked at high altitude. Factors that influence blood pressure, such as total cholesterol, should be closely monitored so that high-altitude workers with abnormal blood pressure and hemoglobin level can be relocated as early as possible.

The psychometric properties of the 5-item gratitude questionnaire in Chinese adolescents

WHAT IS KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT?: The GQ-6 is one of the most widely used self-report questionnaires to evaluate the level of gratitude among adults. The GQ-5 appears suitable for adolescents. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: We developed a Chinese version of the GQ-5 and examined evidence for its reliability and validity. Results demonstrated adequate reliability and validity, indicating that it is appropriate for the assessment of gratitude in Chinese adolescents. In addition, Chinese early adolescent females reported higher gratitude than adolescent males. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE?: Screening adolescents who have lower levels of gratitude through the GQ-5 could help identify students who may benefit from empirically validated interventions to promote higher levels of gratitude in an effort to promote positive psychosocial and academic outcomes.

ABSTRACT

Background This study was conducted to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the 5-item Gratitude Questionnaire (GQ-5). Method The sample consisted of 2093 middle school students (46.8% males) in mainland China. Confirmatory factor analysis and multigroup confirmatory factor analysis were performed to examine the factor structure and the measurement equivalence across gender. The convergent validity, Cronbach's α and mean interitem correlations of the GQ-5 were also evaluated. Results The results provided evidence of internal consistency reliability through a Cronbach's α of 0.812 and a mean interitem correlation of 0.463 for the total sample. The results also supported a one-dimensional factor structure. In addition, convergent validity was assessed by statistically significant positive correlations between the GQ-5 and the two subscales of the Children's Hope Scale (CHS) and the Brief Multidimensional Students' Life Satisfaction Scale (BMSLSS) total score. Finally, multigroup confirmatory factor analysis also demonstrated measurement equivalence across gender. Subsequent analyses of latent mean revealed gender differences in early adolescent male and female students. Conclusions The Chinese version of the GQ-5 appears to be a reliable and valid measure of gratitude among Chinese early adolescents. Early adolescent female students reported higher gratitude than early adolescent male students.

The influence of delipidation on triglyceride and LIPIN1 of porcine embryos derived from parthenogenetic activation

Proteins in the LIPIN family play key roles in lipid synthesis mainly on triacylglycerol (TAG) biosynthesis, and they also act as transcriptional coactivators to regulate the expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism with other nuclear factors. Hence, this study was designed to investigate LIPIN1 in pig oocytes and embryos by the delipidation. After delipidation, the content of lipids (LDs) and TAG in MII oocyte was significantly reduced; however, a similar increasing tendency of TAG was shown during embryos development. Subsequently, the expression of genes related to TAG biosynthesis including GPAT1, AGPAT1, AGPAT2, LIPIN1, DGAT and the nuclear factors interacted with LIPIN1 including PPARα and PPARγ was investigated. It is obvious that DGAT and GPAT1, and LIPIN1 increased significantly after delipidation at 1-cell and 4-cell stage, and the expression of PPARα and PPARγ also increased at 4-cell stage. By immunofluorescence staining and Western blots, LIPIN1 was found to exhibit a dynamic localization pattern and gradually increase with the development of delipated embryo. In the early developmental stages (1-, 2- and 4-cell stages), it was distributed over the cortical layer. But at the blastocyst stage, a homogeneous distribution of LIPIN1 was observed in cytoplasm. At 2-cell stage, the expression of PPARα decreased when LIPIN1 was interfered by small interfering RNA, but PPARγ has no significant difference. Therefore, in this study, we find after delipidation, the content of TAG and LIPIN1 will gradually increase during embryo development and nuclear factor PPARα and PPARγ can also be affected by delipidation. The interaction of LIPIN1 and PPARα exists in porcine embryo.

Cell biology, biophysics, and mechanobiology: From the basics to Clinics

Cell biology, biomechanics and biophysics are the key subjects that guide our understanding in diverse areas of tissue growth, development, remodeling and homeostasis. Novel discoveries such as molecular mechanism, and mechanobiological mechanism in cell biology, biomechanics and biophysics play essential roles in our understanding of the pathogenesis of various human diseases, as well as in designing the treatment of these diseases. In addition, studies in these areas will also facilitate early diagnostics of human diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and cancer. In this special issue, we collected 10 original research articles and 1 review...

SUMOylation in cardiac disorders - a review

SUMOylation regulates diverse cellular processes including transcription, cell cycle, protein stability, and apoptosis. A recent research has now revealed the role of SUMO1 in cardiac disorders. Studies have evidenced that failing heart induces SUMO2/3 conjugation. Moreover, increased SUMO2/3- dependent modification has been observed to result in congestive heart disease such as cardiac hypertrophy by promoting cardiac cell death. Also, few recent studies have confirmed the role of SUMOylation in cardiac protein degradation. On the other hand, over-expression of SENP5, SUMO2/3-specific deconjugation enzyme has been observed to result in dilated cardiomyopathy or cardiac failure. So, the present review article would enlighten the latest updates about SUMOylation and associated factors during cardiac disorders.

Observation of Λ_{c}^{+}→nK_{S}^{0}π^{+}

We report the first direct measurement of decays of the Λ_{c}^{+} baryon involving the neutron. The analysis is performed using 567  pb^{-1} of e^{+}e^{-} collision data collected at sqrt[s]=4.599  GeV with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII collider. We observe the decay Λ_{c}^{+}→nK_{S}^{0}π^{+} and measure the absolute branching fraction to be B(Λ_{c}^{+}→nK_{S}^{0}π^{+})=[1.82±0.23(stat)±0.11(syst)]%. A comparison to B[Λ_{c}^{+}→p(K[over ¯]π)^{0}] provides an important test of isospin symmetry and final state interactions.

Immunohistochemical localization of sex hormone receptors in two Raillietina tapeworms

Sex hormone receptors play critical roles in development and reproduction. However, it is not known whether they exist in Raillietina tapeworms, and if they do, whether they have a similar function to that in vertebrates. We examined the immunohistochemical distributions of androgen receptors (ARs), estrogen receptors (ERs), and progesterone receptors (PRs) in the tissues of two tapeworm species: Raillietina echinobothrida and Raillietina tetragona. Immunopositive ARs were found in the entire reproductive system of R. echinobothrida, including the testes, ovaries, and oocysts, and weakly immunopositive ERs and PRs were found in the testes, ovaries, and oocysts. Immunopositive ARs were also found throughout the entire reproductive system of R. tetragona, including the testes, ovaries, and oocysts, and weakly immunopositive ERs were in the testes and oocysts; the PRs were distributed in an immunonegative manner. The results show that androgens and their receptors play critical roles in reproductive system development in the two tapeworms. The immunoreactivity and tissue localizations of the sex hormone receptors suggest that, in both species, they have similar functions as in vertebrates, and modulate reproduction.

Genetic analysis of HOXA11 gene in Chinese patients with cryptorchidism

Cryptorchidism is the most common congenital anomaly in male children. Its aetiology remains unknown in the majority of cases. Because HOXA11 plays a vital role in regulating testicular descent, genetic variants in HOXA11 genes may contribute to the risk of cryptorchidism. In this study, mutation analysis was performed on the HOXA11 gene in a cohort of 89 patients with cryptorchidism. Furthermore, an association analysis of the HOXA11 tag single nucleotide polymorphism rs6461992 was performed in 168 patients with unilateral cryptorchidism and 193 controls. No pathogenic mutations were found. A significant difference in genotype and allele distribution was detected between cases and controls (p = .029 and .022 respectively). These results suggest that mutations in the coding sequence of HOXA11 might not be a common cause of cryptorchidism, while common polymorphisms in the HOXA11 gene might contribute to the risk of developing unilateral cryptorchidism.

Precise Measurement of the e^{+}e^{-}→π^{+}π^{-}J/ψ Cross Section at Center-of-Mass Energies from 3.77 to 4.60 GeV

The cross section for the process e^{+}e^{-}→π^{+}π^{-}J/ψ is measured precisely at center-of-mass energies from 3.77 to 4.60 GeV using 9  fb^{-1} of data collected with the BESIII detector operating at the BEPCII storage ring. Two resonant structures are observed in a fit to the cross section. The first resonance has a mass of (4222.0±3.1±1.4)  MeV/c^{2} and a width of (44.1±4.3±2.0)  MeV, while the second one has a mass of (4320.0±10.4±7.0)  MeV/c^{2} and a width of (101.4_{-19.7}^{+25.3}±10.2)  MeV, where the first errors are statistical and second ones are systematic. The first resonance agrees with the Y(4260) resonance reported by previous experiments. The precision of its resonant parameters is improved significantly. The second resonance is observed in e^{+}e^{-}→π^{+}π^{-}J/ψ for the first time. The statistical significance of this resonance is estimated to be larger than 7.6σ. The mass and width of the second resonance agree with the Y(4360) resonance reported by the BABAR and Belle experiments within errors. Finally, the Y(4008) resonance previously observed by the Belle experiment is not confirmed in the description of the BESIII data.

Evidence of Two Resonant Structures in e^{+}e^{-}→π^{+}π^{-}h_{c}

The cross sections of e^{+}e^{-}→π^{+}π^{-}h_{c} at center-of-mass energies from 3.896 to 4.600 GeV are measured using data samples collected with the BESIII detector operating at the Beijing Electron Positron Collider. The cross sections are found to be of the same order of magnitude as those of e^{+}e^{-}→π^{+}π^{-}J/ψ and e^{+}e^{-}→π^{+}π^{-}ψ(2S), but the line shape is inconsistent with the Y states observed in the latter two modes. Two structures are observed in the e^{+}e^{-}→π^{+}π^{-}h_{c} cross sections around 4.22 and 4.39  GeV/c^{2}, which we call Y(4220) and Y(4390), respectively. A fit with a coherent sum of two Breit-Wigner functions results in a mass of (4218.4_{-4.5}^{+5.5}±0.9)  MeV/c^{2} and a width of (66.0_{-8.3}^{+12.3}±0.4)  MeV for the Y(4220), and a mass of (4391.5_{-6.8}^{+6.3}±1.0)  MeV/c^{2} and a width of (139.5_{-20.6}^{+16.2}±0.6)  MeV for the Y(4390), where the first uncertainties are statistical and the second ones systematic. The statistical significance of Y(4220) and Y(4390) is 10σ over one structure assumption.

Cytosolic proteome profiling of monocytes for male osteoporosis

In male Caucasians with discordant hip bone mineral density (BMD), we applied the subcellular separation and proteome profiling to investigate the monocytic cytosol. Three BMD-associated proteins (ALDOA, MYH14, and Rap1B) were identified based on multiple omics evidence, and they may influence the pathogenic mechanisms of osteoporosis by regulating the activities of monocytes.

INTRODUCTION

Osteoporosis is a serious public health problem, leading to significant mortality not only in aging females but also in males. Peripheral blood monocytes (PBMs) play important roles in bone metabolism by acting as precursors of osteoclasts and producing cytokines important for osteoclast development. The first cytosolic sub-proteome profiling analysis was performed in male PBMs to identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) that are associated with BMDs and risk of osteoporosis.

METHODS

Here, we conducted a comparative proteomics analysis in PBMs from Caucasian male subjects with discordant hip BMD (29 low BMD vs. 30 high BMD). To decrease the proteome complexity and expand the coverage range of the cellular proteome, we separated the PBM proteome into several subcellular compartments and focused on the cytosolic fractions, which are involved in a wide range of fundamental biochemical processes.

RESULTS

Of the total of 3796 detected cytosolic proteins, we identified 16 significant (P < 0.05) and an additional 22 suggestive (P < 0.1) DEPs between samples with low vs. high hip BMDs. Some of the genes for DEPs, including ALDOA, MYH14, and Rap1B, showed an association with BMD in multiple omics studies (proteomic, transcriptomic, and genomic). Further bioinformatics analysis revealed the enrichment of DEPs in functional terms for monocyte proliferation, differentiation, and migration.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination strategy of subcellular separation and proteome profiling allows an in-depth and refined investigation into the composition and functions of cytosolic proteome, which may shed light on the monocyte-mediated pathogenic mechanisms of osteoporosis.

Serum Cholesterol Levels within the High Normal Range Are Associated with Better Cognitive Performance among Chinese Elderly

OBJECTIVES

The association between cognitive function and cholesterol levels is poorly understood and inconsistent results exist among the elderly. The purpose of this study is to investigate the association of cholesterol level with cognitive performance among Chinese elderly.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study was implemented in 2012 and data were analyzed using generalized additive models, linear regression models and logistic regression models.

SETTING

Community-based setting in eight longevity areas in China.

SUBJECTS

A total of 2000 elderly aged 65 years and over (mean 85.8±12.0 years) participated in this study.

MEASUREMENTS

Total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) concentration were determined and cognitive impairment was defined as Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score ≤23.

RESULTS

There was a significant positive linear association between TC, TG, LDL-C, HDL-C and MMSE score in linear regression models. Each 1 mmol/L increase in TC, TG, LDL-C and HDL-C corresponded to a decreased risk of cognitive impairment in logistic regression models. Compared with the lowest tertile, the highest tertile of TC, LDL-C and HDL-C had a lower risk of cognitive impairment. The adjusted odds ratios and 95% CI were 0.73(0.62-0.84) for TC, 0.81(0.70-0.94) for LDL-C and 0.81(0.70-0.94) for HDL-C. There was no gender difference in the protective effects of high TC and LDL-C levels on cognitive impairment. However, for high HDL-C levels the effect was only observed in women. High TC, LDL-C and HDL-C levels were associated with lower risk of cognitive impairment in the oldest old (aged 80 and older), but not in the younger elderly (aged 65 to 79 years).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that cholesterol levels within the high normal range are associated with better cognitive performance in Chinese elderly, specifically in the oldest old. With further validation, low cholesterol may serve a clinical indicator of risk for cognitive impairment in the elderly.

Amplitude Analysis of the Decays η^{'}→π^{+}π^{-}π^{0} and η^{'}→π^{0}π^{0}π^{0}

Based on a sample of 1.31×10^{9}  J/ψ events collected with the BESIII detector, an amplitude analysis of the isospin-violating decays η^{'}→π^{+}π^{-}π^{0} and η^{'}→π^{0}π^{0}π^{0} is performed. A significant P-wave contribution from η^{'}→ρ^{±}π^{∓} is observed for the first time in η^{'}→π^{+}π^{-}π^{0}. The branching fraction is determined to be B(η^{'}→ρ^{±}π^{∓})=(7.44±0.60±1.26±1.84)×10^{-4}, where the first uncertainty is statistical, the second systematic, and the third model dependent. In addition to the nonresonant S-wave component, there is a significant σ meson component. The branching fractions of the combined S-wave components are determined to be B(η^{'}→π^{+}π^{-}π^{0})_{S}=(37.63±0.77±2.22±4.48)×10^{-4} and B(η^{'}→π^{0}π^{0}π^{0})=(35.22±0.82±2.54)×10^{-4}, respectively. The latter one is consistent with previous BESIII measurements.

Dietary Diversity and Cognitive Function among Elderly People: A Population-Based Study

OBJECTIVES

To explore associations of dietary diversity with cognitive function among Chinese elderly.

DESIGN

This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2011-2012, data were analyzed using multiple linear regression and logistic regression models.

SETTING

community-based setting in the 23 provinces in China.

SUBJECTS

8,571 elderly participants, including 2984 younger elderly aged 65-79 and 5587 oldest old aged 80+ participated in this study.

MEASUREMENT

Intake frequencies of food groups was collected and dietary diversity (DD) was assessed based on the mean of DD score. Cognitive function was assessed using the Chinese version of Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and cognitive impairment was defined using education-based cutoffs. Information about socio-demographics, lifestyles, resilience and health status was also collected.

RESULTS

Poor dietary diversity was significantly associated with cognitive function, with β (95% CI) of -0.11(-0.14, -0.08) for -log (31-MMSE score) and odds ratio (95% CI) of 1.29 (1.14, 1.47) for cognitive impairment. Interaction effect of age with DD was observed on cognitive impairment (P interaction=0.018), but not on -log (31-MMSE score) (P interaction=0.08). Further separate analysis showed that poor DD was significantly associated with increased risk of cognitive impairment in the oldest old (p<0.01), with odds ratio (95% CI) of 1.34 (1.17, 1.54), while not in the younger elderly (p>0.05), with OR (95% CI) being 1.09 (0.80, 1.47) in the fully adjusted model. Similar results were obtained when DD was categorized into four groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Poor dietary diversity was associated with worse global cognitive function among Chinese elderly, and particularly for the oldest old. This finding would be very meaningful for prevention of cognitive impairment.

Measurement of Singly Cabibbo Suppressed Decays Λ_{c}^{+}→pπ^{+}π^{-} and Λ_{c}^{+}→pK^{+}K^{-}

Using 567  pb^{-1} of data collected with the BESIII detector at a center-of-mass energy of sqrt[s]=4.599  GeV, near the Λ_{c}^{+}Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-} threshold, we study the singly Cabibbo-suppressed decays Λ_{c}^{+}→pπ^{+}π^{-} and Λ_{c}^{+}→pK^{+}K^{-}. By normalizing with respect to the Cabibbo-favored decay Λ_{c}^{+}→pK^{-}π^{+}, we obtain ratios of branching fractions: [B(Λ_{c}^{+}→pπ^{+}π^{-})/B(Λ_{c}^{+}→pK^{-}π^{+})]=(6.70±0.48±0.25)%, [B(Λ_{c}^{+}→pϕ)/B(Λ_{c}^{+}→pK^{-}π^{+})]=(1.81±0.33±0.13)%, and [B(Λ_{c}^{+}→pK^{+}K_{non-ϕ}^{-})/B(Λ_{c}^{+}→pK^{-}π^{+})]=(9.36±2.22±0.71)×10^{-3}, where the uncertainties are statistical and systematic, respectively. The absolute branching fractions are also presented. Among these measurements, the decay Λ_{c}^{+}→pπ^{+}π^{-} is observed for the first time, and the precision of the branching fraction for Λ_{c}^{+}→pK^{+}K_{non-ϕ}^{-} and Λ_{c}^{+}→pϕ is significantly improved.

Effects of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor and leukemia-inhibitory factor on the behavior of two calf testis germline stem cell colony types

Germline stem cells are the only such capable of transmitting genetic information in vivo. The isolation and culture of these cells in vitro provide a unique model to understand sperm differentiation and hence, spermatogenesis and male fertility. In this study, we isolated, purified, and cultured germline stem cells from the testes of newborn calves. Moreover, we investigated the effects of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and leukemia-inhibitory factor (LIF) on their proliferation. Male calf germline stem cells were found to be pluripotent, and able to form grape-like and embryonic stem cell (ES)-like colonies when cultured. GDNF promoted proliferation of the former, whereas LIF induced growth of the latter. The grape-like colonies retained their germline stem cell characteristics, whereas the ES-like colonies demonstrated more primitive attributes. This investigation established a male calf germline stem cell culture model that may serve as a foundation for further studies aiming to understand the properties of such cells.

Calpain-activated mTORC2/Akt pathway mediates airway smooth muscle remodelling in asthma

BACKGROUND

Allergic asthma is characterized by inflammation and airway remodelling. Airway remodelling with excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) and larger smooth muscle mass are correlated with increased airway responsiveness and asthma severity. Calpain is a family of calcium-dependent endopeptidases, which plays an important role in ECM remodelling. However, the role of calpain in airway smooth muscle remodelling remains unknown.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of calpain in asthmatic airway remodelling as well as the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

The mouse asthma model was made by ovalbumin sensitization and challenge. Calpain conditional knockout mice were studied in the model. Airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) were isolated from smooth muscle bundles in airway of rats. Cytokines IL-4, IL-5, TNF-α, and TGF-β1, and serum from patients with asthma were selected to treated ASMCs. Collagen-I synthesis, cell proliferation, and phosphorylation of Akt in ASMCs were analysed.

RESULTS

Inhibition of calpain using calpain knockout mice attenuated airway smooth muscle remodelling in mouse asthma models. Cytokines IL-4, IL-5, TNF-α, and TGF-β1, and serum from patients with asthma increased collagen-I synthesis, cell proliferation, and phosphorylation of Akt in ASMCs, which were blocked by the calpain inhibitor MDL28170. Moreover, MDL28170 reduced cytokine-induced increases in Rictor protein, which is the most important component of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2 (mTORC2). Blockage of the mTORC2 signal pathway prevented cytokine-induced phosphorylation of Akt, collagen-I synthesis, and cell proliferation of ASMCs and attenuated airway smooth muscle remodelling in mouse asthma models.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Our results indicate that calpain mediates cytokine-induced collagen-I synthesis and proliferation of ASMCs via the mTORC2/Akt signalling pathway, thereby regulating airway smooth muscle remodelling in asthma.

Tumor-associated antigens: Tn antigen, sTn antigen, and T antigen

Glycosylation is one of the major posttranslational modifications of proteins. N-glycosylation (Asn-linked) and O-glycosylation (Ser/Thr-linked) are the two main forms. Abnormal O-glycosylation is frequently observed on the surface of tumor cells, and is associated with an adverse outcome and poor prognosis in patients with cancer. O-glycans (Tn, sTn, and T antigen) can be synthesized in the Golgi apparatus with the aid of several glycosyltransferases (such as T-synthase and ST6GalNAc-I) in a suitable environment. The unique molecular chaperone of T-synthase is Cosmc, which helps T-synthase to fold correctly in the endoplasmic reticulum. Dysregulation of these glycosyltransferases, molecular chaperones, or the environment is involved in the dysregulation of O-glycans. Tn, sTn, and T antigen neo- or over-expression occurs in many types of cancer including gastric, colon, breast, lung, esophageal, prostate, and endometrial cancer. This review discusses the major synthetic pathway of O-glycans and the mechanism by which Tn, sTn, and T antigens promote tumor metastasis.

PTPH1 promotes tumor growth and metastasis in human glioma

OBJECTIVE

Glioma is the most common form of brain tumor, accounting for over 50% of all primary tumors. Despite progress in the treatment of glioma, the prognosis is still poor. In this study, we examined protein-tyrosine phosphatase H1 (PTPH1) in human gliomas.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cell growth potential was measured by CCK-8 assay and colony formation. Cell cycle distribution was measured by flow cytometry. Transwell assay was used to detect the motility of tumor cells. Real-time PCR and Western blot were used to measure the mRNA and protein expression of indicated genes. Xenograft model was established to measure the role of PTPH1 in vivo.

RESULTS

The expression of PTPH1 was significantly higher in the tumor tissues as compared with that in the adjacent normal tissues. Knockdown of PTPH1 significantly slowed cell proliferation and reduced colony formation abilities in glioma cell lines U87 and U251. Additionally, knockdown of PTPH1 caused cell cycle arrest in the S-phase. Furthermore, depletion of PTPH1 in glioma U87 cells significantly limited tumor growth in a xenograft model. Interestingly, knockdown of PTPH1 also decreased cell migration abilities in both U87 and U251 cells. Accordingly, matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) was also decreased upon knockdown of PTPH1 in both cell lines. Moreover, we found that phosphorylated MEK (p-MEK) and phosphorylated MAPK (p-MAPK) were both decreased, whereas the total levels of MEK and MAPK remained unchanged after depletion of PTPH1 in both cell lines.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that PTPH1 may be a novel biomarker that indicates the aggressiveness of gliomas. Targeting PTPH1 might be a promising strategy for the treatment of gliomas.

[Correlation between RNA Expression Level and Early PMI in Human Brain Tissue]

OBJECTIVES

To explore the correlation between the expression levels of several RNA markers in human brain tissue and early postmortem interval （PMI）.

METHODS

Twelve individuals with known PMI （range from 4.3 to 22.5 h） were selected and total RNA was extracted from brain tissue. Eight commonly used RNA markers were chosen including β-actin, GAPDH, RPS29, 18S rRNA, 5S rRNA, U6 snRNA, miRNA-9 and miRNA-125b, and the expression levels were detected in brain tissue by real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR. The internal reference markers with stable expression in early PMI were screened using geNorm software and the relationship between its expression level and some relevant factors such as age, gender and cause of death were analyzed. RNA markers normalized by internal reference were inserted into the mathematic model established by previous research for PMI estimation using R software. Model quality was judged by the error rate calculated with estimated PMI.

RESULTS

5S rRNA, miRNA-9 and miRNA-125b showed quite stable expression and their expression levels had no relation with age, gender and cause of death. The error rate of estimated PMI using β-actin was 24.6%, while GAPDH was 41.0%.

CONCLUSIONS

5S rRNA, miRNA-9 and miRNA-125b are suitable as internal reference markers of human brain tissue owing to their stable expression in early PMI. The expression level of β-actin correlates well with PMI, which can be used as an additional index for early PMI estimation.

Hemodynamic shear stress regulates the transcriptional expression of heparan sulfate proteoglycans in human umbilical vein endothelial cell

We have previously demonstrated the adaptive remodeling of endothelial glycocalyx under shear stress. However, the underlying mechanism in glycocalyx remodeling, especially the expression of the components heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) under shear stress was not completely known. In the present study, we investigated the expression of those HSPGs (syndecan family and glypican-1) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) responded to the distinct magnitude of shear stress, and performed a systematic and comprehensive analyze on the relationship between shear stress and HSPGs mRNA expression in a temporal manner. During the initial 0.5h of exposure, syndecan-1 mRNA was greatest upregulated by 4 dyn/cm2 of shear stress, and syndecan-4 mRNA was significantly upregulated by 10 dyn/cm2 and 15 dyn/cm2. After 24h of exposure, the greatest increased HSPG mRNA was syndecan-4 under 4 dyn/cm2, and was syndecan-3 under 15 dyn/cm2. The adaptive remodeling of endothelial glycocalyx may due to the change in the expression of those molecules. Furthermore, the changes of those molecules that may associate with the vascular homeostasis and endothelial dysfunction revealed the potential candidate components of the glycocalyx in response to cardiovascular diseases.

[Sole percutaneous microwave coagulation versus its combination with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization for treatment of primary hepatoma: a comparison study]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and adverse effects of sole percutaneous microwave coagulation therapy (PMCT) compared to that of PMCT combining with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) for the treatment of primary hepatoma.

METHODS

A total of 50 patients diagnosed with primary hepatocellular carcinoma were recruited and divided into two groups. Group A included 15 patients only treated with PMCT. The other 35 ones falling into group B were treated with PMCT in combination with TACE. Analysis of therapeutic efficacy and adverse effects were conducted.

RESULTS

The objective effect rates in group A and group B were 40.0% and 62.8%, respectively. There was no significant difference between the two groups(P = 0.136). The one-year survival rates of the two groups were 46.6% and 71.4%,respectively(P = 0.095);and the two-year survival rates were 26.7% and 42.8%,respectively (P = 0.048). No grade III adverse effects or beyond were observed.

CONCLUSION

PCMT combining with TACE is safe and more effective in one-year survival than PCMT alone for the treatment of primary hepatocellular carcinoma.

Observation of an Anomalous Line Shape of the η^{'}π^{+}π^{-} Mass Spectrum near the pp[over ¯] Mass Threshold in J/ψ→γη^{'}π^{+}π^{-}

Using 1.09×10^{9} J/ψ events collected by the BESIII experiment in 2012, we study the J/ψ→γη^{'}π^{+}π^{-} process and observe a significant abrupt change in the slope of the η^{'}π^{+}π^{-} invariant mass distribution at the proton-antiproton (pp[over ¯]) mass threshold. We use two models to characterize the η^{'}π^{+}π^{-} line shape around 1.85  GeV/c^{2}: one that explicitly incorporates the opening of a decay threshold in the mass spectrum (Flatté formula), and another that is the coherent sum of two resonant amplitudes. Both fits show almost equally good agreement with data, and suggest the existence of either a broad state around 1.85  GeV/c^{2} with strong couplings to the pp[over ¯] final states or a narrow state just below the pp[over ¯] mass threshold. Although we cannot distinguish between the fits, either one supports the existence of a pp[over ¯] moleculelike state or bound state with greater than 7σ significance.

Exposure to triptolide affects follicle development in NIH mice

Triptolide (TPL) is a main active compound isolated from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook f. Despite its positive therapeutic effect, the female reproductive toxicity of TPL is still the bottleneck of clinical application. The study was designed to investigate the adverse effects on mice ovary and underlying mechanism of TPL. Adult female NIH mice were treated with two therapeutic doses of TPL (25 and 50 μg/kg/d) for 50 days, respectively. Mice estrous cycle was detected by vaginal cytology method. Half mice from each group were selected randomly to perform superovulation. Quality and quantity of ovulated eggs were evaluated. Other mice from each group were executed for morphological study. Ovarian histological sections were stained by H&E staining for ovarian pathologic detection and follicular counts. Apoptotic granulosa cell (GC) was detected by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-related proteins and antiapoptotic X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) were detected by immunohistochemical method. Two doses of TPL resulted in estrous cycle disorder and follicles in development reservoir impairment. Quality and quantity of mice ovulated eggs significantly decreased after TPL treatment. Ovarian pathologic examination revealed TPL-induced TUNEL-positive GCs increase and ER stress–related proteins (78-kDa glucose-regulated protein, p-protein kinase-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase, p-eukaryotic initiation factor 2α, and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein homologous protein) expression upregulation. Meanwhile, the expression of antiapoptosis protein XIAP in mice ovary was obviously inhibited by TPL. Our results may demonstrate that therapeutic doses of TPL can injure ovary function, but there is no difference between high-dose and low-dose groups. GCs apoptosis by ER stress pathway and antiapoptotic function impairment may partly mediate TPL-induced ovary toxicity.

[The clinical analysis of instrumentation failure after corrective surgery for thoracolumbar focal kyphosis]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the etiology of instrumentation failure after corrective surgery for thoracolumbar focal kyphosis, and make suggestion for treatment.

METHODS

Retrospective study for 8 patients with thoracolumbar focal kyphosis who underwent surgical treatment and suffered instrumentation failure from June 2005 to December 2011 was made. The surgical procedures included pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO), anterior opening-posterior closing osteotomy and correction (AOPC), and posterior vertebral column resection (VCR). The reasons of instrumentation failure were analyzed and revision surgeries were performed.

RESULTS

The incidence of instrumentation failure was 6.3%. The average occurrence time was 22.5 months after surgery. Except one had failure in 3 months after surgery, all cases happened after 1 year. In this series, there were 5 cases with post-tuberculosis, 2 cases with post-traumatic kyphosis and 1 case with congenital kyphosis. For the surgical procedure, 7 cases underwent VCR and 1 case AOPC. After the instrumentation failure, all cases had back pain, and 3 of them had combined neurological symptoms. The reasons or risk factors of instrumentation failure included non-fusion of bone graft, VCR procedure, sink of the titanium mesh, insufficiency of anchor sites, and more severe kyphosis. All the 8 cases were treated with revision surgery and got good results.

CONCLUSIONS

The instrumentation failure of thoracolumbar focal kyphosis is relatively late occurred, and can develop with various reasons. Positive revision surgery is suggested for the instrumentation failure, and good results can be expected.

[Clinical analysis of 67 cases of surgical site infection after spine surgery]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the treatment of surgical site infection(SSI) after spine surgery.

METHODS

Sixty-seven patients (aged 20-77 years with mean age of 51 years) with etiologically-confirmed surgical site infection after spine surgery in Peking University Third Hospital between July 2004 and December 2012 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 39 male and 28 female patients; 47 lumbar infections, 4 thoracic infections, 7 lower cervical infections and 8 upper cervical infections; 64 early infections and 3 delayed infections; 23 superficial infections and 44 deep infections; 47 monomicrobial infections and 20 polymicrobial infections. Ninety-six strains of bacteria were identified from the bacterial culture of 67 patients. Sixty strains were gram-positive pathogenic bacteria (62.5%), and the top three species were Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis and Enterococcus faecalis. The remaining 36 strains were gram-negative pathogenic bacteria (37.5%), and the 3 species most predominant were Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae, and Acinetobacter baumannii. All the patients with SSI were administered antibiotics. Debridement and irrigation-suction was performed if little symptomatic improvement was achieved in two-to-three days of antibiotics treatment, patients underwent 1-5 times of debridements (mean 1.5 times).

RESULTS

One patient was dead of MRSA septicemia, whom manifested as high fever, alalia and incision swelling when the infection occurred. The patient underwent polymicrobial of pulmonary infection and urinary tract infection during the period of hospitalization, and finally died of multiple organ failure. Sixty-six cases had wound healed, and they were followed up for 25-117 months (average 70 months), no recurrence of infection was found at last follow-up. Among the 65 cases of internal fixation, 56 cases reserved the implants, while implants were removed in other 9 cases for controlling infection.

CONCLUSION

Reasonable antibiotics and irrigation-suction are effective methods for managing surgical site infections after spine surgery and prevent removal of implants.