Acetyl-CoA synthetase 2 induces pyroptosis and inflammation of renal epithelial tubular cells in sepsis-induced acute kidney injury by upregulating the KLF5/NF-κB pathway

BACKGROUND

Pyroptosis of the renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) and interstitial inflammation are central pathological characteristics of acute kidney injury (AKI). Pyroptosis acts as a pro-inflammatory form of programmed cell death and is mainly dependent on activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Previous studies revealed that acetyl-CoA synthetase 2 (ACSS2) promotes inflammation during metabolic stress suggesting that ACSS2 might regulate pyroptosis and inflammatory responses of RTECs in AKI.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The expression of ACSS2 was found to be significantly increased in the renal epithelial cells of mice with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced AKI. Pharmacological and genetic strategies demonstrated that ACSS2 regulated NLRP3-mediated caspase-1 activation and pyroptosis through the stimulation of the KLF5/NF-κB pathway in RTECs. The deletion of ACSS2 attenuated renal tubular pathological injury and inflammatory cell infiltration in an LPS-induced mouse model, and ACSS2-deficient mice displayed impaired NLRP3 activation-mediated pyroptosis and decreased IL-1β production in response to the LPS challenge. In HK-2 cells, ACSS2 deficiency suppressed NLRP3-mediated caspase-1 activation and pyroptosis through the downregulation of the KLF5/NF-κB pathway. The KLF5 inhibitor ML264 suppressed NF-κB activity and NLRP3-mediated caspase-1 activation, thus protecting HK-2 cells from LPS-induced pyroptosis.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggested that ACSS2 regulates activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and pyroptosis by inducing the KLF5/NF-κB pathway in RTECs. These results identified ACSS2 as a potential therapeutic target in AKI.

Acetyl-CoA synthetase 2 promotes diabetic renal tubular injury in mice by rewiring fatty acid metabolism through SIRT1/ChREBP pathway

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is characterized by chronic low-grade renal inflammatory responses, which greatly contribute to disease progression. Abnormal glucose metabolism disrupts renal lipid metabolism, leading to lipid accumulation, nephrotoxicity, and subsequent aseptic renal interstitial inflammation. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms underlying the renal inflammation in diabetes, driven by glucose-lipid metabolic rearrangement with a focus on the role of acetyl-CoA synthetase 2 (ACSS2) in lipid accumulation and renal tubular injury. Diabetic models were established in mice by the injection of streptozotocin and in human renal tubular epithelial HK-2 cells cultured under a high glucose (HG, 30 mmol/L) condition. We showed that the expression levels of ACSS2 were significantly increased in renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) from the diabetic mice and human diabetic kidney biopsy samples, and ACSS2 was co-localized with the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β in RTECs. Diabetic ACSS2-deficient mice exhibited reduced renal tubular injury and inflammatory responses. Similarly, ACSS2 knockdown or inhibition of ACSS2 by ACSS2i (10 µmol/L) in HK-2 cells significantly ameliorated HG-induced inflammation, mitochondrial stress, and fatty acid synthesis. Molecular docking revealed that ACSS2 interacted with Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1). In HG-treated HK-2 cells, we demonstrated that ACSS2 suppressed SIRT1 expression and activated fatty acid synthesis by modulating SIRT1-carbohydrate responsive element binding protein (ChREBP) activity, leading to mitochondrial oxidative stress and inflammation. We conclude that ACSS2 promotes mitochondrial oxidative stress and renal tubular inflammation in DN by regulating the SIRT1-ChREBP pathway. This highlights the potential therapeutic value of pharmacological inhibition of ACSS2 for alleviating renal inflammation and dysregulation of fatty acid metabolic homeostasis in DN. Metabolic inflammation in the renal region, driven by lipid metabolism disorder, is a key factor in renal injury in diabetic nephropathy (DN). Acetyl-CoA synthetase 2 (ACSS2) is abundantly expressed in renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) and highly upregulated in diabetic kidneys. Deleting ACSS2 reduces renal fatty acid accumulation and markers of renal tubular injury in diabetic mice. We demonstrate that ACSS2 deletion inhibits ChREBP-mediated fatty acid lipogenesis, mitochondrial oxidative stress, and inflammatory response in RTECs, which play a major role in the progression of diabetic renal tubular injury in the kidney. These findings support the potential use of ACSS2 inhibitors in treating patients with DN.

CREB-induced LINC00473 promotes chemoresistance to TMZ in glioblastoma by regulating O6-methylguanine-DNA-methyltransferase expression via CEBPα binding

Temozolomide (TMZ) offers substantial therapeutic benefits for glioblastoma (GB), yet its efficacy is hindered the development of chemoresistance. The role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in tumorigenesis and chemoresistance has garnered great attention in studies on TMZ resistance. This study aimed to reveal the role of LINC00473 in TMZ chemoresistance and the underlying mechanism in GB. The expression of LINC00473 in TMZ-resistant and TMZ-sensitive GB cells was investigated using qPCR analysis. The role of LINC00473 in regulating TMZ resistance in GB cells was analyzed using the CCK-8 assay, colony formation assay, and flow cytometry. The next steps included assessing if LINC00473 is regulated by CREB and whether LINC00473 promotes chemoresistance through MGMT regulation via CEBPα. Further, chemoresistance delivery between cells via exosomal LINC00473 was validated in vitro and in vivo. Results showed that LINC00473 levels were elevated in TMZ-resistant cells upon CREB activation, and the lncRNA promoted the chemoresistance of GB cells through the upregulation of MGMT expression. Mechanistically, LINC00473 regulated the MGMT expression by binding to CEBPα. The highly-expressed LINC00473 packaged in exosomes transferred chemoresistance to the adjacent TMZ-sensitive GB cells. In conclusion, a novel CREB/LINC00473/CEBPα/MGMT pathway was revealed in the GB TMZ-resistance formation. In addition, an exosome-based mechanism of chemoresistance transmission was revealed, suggesting that LINC00473 could be used as a novel therapeutic target for GB.

[Etiological diagnostic value of metagenomic next-generation sequencing in peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis]

Objective: To explore the etiological diagnostic value of metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) in peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related peritonitis. Methods: The study was a retrospective cohort study. The clinical data of patients with PD-related peritonitis who were treated and underwent microbial cultivation and mNGS test at the same time from June 2020 to July 2021 in the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University were analyzed. The positive rate, detection time and consistency between mNGS test and traditional microbial culture were compared. Results: A total of 18 patients with age of (50.4±15.4) years old and median dialysis time of 34.0 (12.4, 62.0) months were enrolled in the study, including 11 males and 7 females. Pathogenic microorganisms were isolated in 17 patients by mNGS test, with a positive rate of 17/18, which was higher than 13/18 of microbial culture, but the difference was not statistically significant (P=0.219). Both mNGS test and microbial culture isolated positive pathogenic bacteria in 12 patients, and mNGS test isolated the same types of pathogenic bacteria as microbial cultivation did in 11 patients. In five patients with negative microbial culture, mNGS test also isolated pathogenic microorganisms, including 3 cases of Staphylococcus epidermidis, 1 case of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and 1 case of Ureaplasma urealyticum. In 1 patient, microbial culture isolated pathogenic bacteria (Escherichia coli) whereas mNGS test did not. The detection time of mNGS was 25.0 (24.0, 27.0) h, which was significantly shorter than 89.0 (72.8, 122.0) h of microbial culture (Z=3.726, P<0.001). Conclusions: mNGS test can improve the detection rate of pathogenic microorganisms in PD-related peritonitis and greatly shorten the detection time, and has good consistency with microbial culture. mNGS may provide a new approach for pathogen identification of PD-related peritonitis, especially refractory peritonitis.

Angiotensin II type 2 receptor prevents extracellular matrix accumulation in human peritoneal mesothelial cell by ameliorating lipid disorder via LOX-1 suppression

Evidence suggests that intracellular angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1) contributes to peritoneal fibrosis (PF) under high glucose (HG)-based dialysates. It is generally believed that AT2 antagonisticly affects AT1 function. The aim of this study was to explore whether AT2 activation is beneficial for attenuating human peritoneal mesothelial cell (HPMC) injury due to HG. We treated a HPMC line with HG to induce extracellular matrix (ECM) formation. AT2 was increased and blocked using CGP42112A and AT2 siRNA. Lipid deposition was detected, signaling molecules associated with lectin-like oxidized lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1) and ECM proteins were evaluated by real-time PCR and western blot. The results showed that HG led to AT2 inhibition in HPMCs, inhibition of AT2 further aggravated the expression of ECM proteins, including α-smooth muscle actin, fibroblast specific protein-1 and collagen I, while AT2 decreased the expression of ECM proteins, even during HG stimulation. Interestingly, there was a parallel change in lipid accumulation and ECM formation when AT2 was increased or depressed. Moreover, AT2-mediated decreased ECM production was associated with reduced lipid accumulation in HPMCs and depended on the downregulation of LOX-1. Further analysis showed that HG increased oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) deposition in HPMCs concomitant with an enhanced expression of ECM components, whereas blocking LOX-1 reversed ox-LDL deposition even in the presence of HG. This effect was also accompanied by the remission of ECM accumulation. Our results suggested that AT2 prevented ECM formation in HG-stimulated HPMCs by ameliorating lipid via LOX‐1 suppression.

CXCL12/CXCR4 Mediates Orthodontic Root Resorption via Regulating the M1/M2 Ratio

Mechanical force-induced external root resorption is a major clinical side effect of orthodontic treatment. Recent work has revealed that M1 macrophages play a vital role in promoting orthodontic root resorption (ORR), but the mechanism of how mechanical force stimulation increases the M1/M2 macrophage ratio in periodontal tissue is poorly understood. In the current study, we showed that C-X-C motif chemokine 12 (CXCL12)⁺ periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs) and C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4)⁺ monocytes in the periodontal ligament (PDL) were significantly increased after force application with ongoing root resorption, and these effects were partially rescued after force removal in mice. The expression of CXCL12 in PDLCs was increased by force stimulation in a time- and intensity-dependent manner in vitro. Blockage of the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis using CXCR4 antagonist AMD3100 was sufficient to alleviate ORR and reverse the force-enhanced M1/M2 macrophage ratio. Further mechanism exploration showed that Ly6C^hi inflammatory monocytes homed in a CXCL12/CXCR4 axis-dependent manner. The number and proportion of CD11b⁺ Ly6C^hi inflammatory monocytes in cervical lymph nodes were significantly increased by force loading, accompanied by decreased CD11b⁺ Ly6C^hi monocytes in the blood. These changes were blunted by intraperitoneal injection of AMD3100. In addition, blockage of the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis effectively reversed M2 suppression and promoted M1 polarization. Collectively, results indicate that force-induced CXCL12/CXCR4 axis mediates ORR by increasing the M1/M2 ratio in periodontal tissues through attracting Ly6C^hi inflammatory monocytes and modulating macrophage polarization. The results also imply that AMD3100 is potentially inhibitory to root resorption.

[Calcium-sensing receptor promotes endotoxin-induced myocardial injury through the JNK pathway]

Objective: To investigate the effects of calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) on the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) in myocardial injury induced by endotoxin. Methods: The endotoxic model of neonatal rats was made by intraperitoneal injection of LPS(5 mg/kg). Neonatal Wistar rats were randomly divided into 6 groups: ①control group (saline group), ②endotoxin (LPS) group, ③LPS + CaSR agonist group, ④LPS + CaSR inhibitor group, ⑤LPS + JNK inhibitor group, ⑥LPS + CaSR inhibitor + JNK inhibitor group. The morphology of myocardium was observed by HE staining. The content of lactate dehydrogenase(LDH) in serum was determined. And the expression of IL-6 mRNA was detected by PCR. The protein expressions of CaSR and JNK were analyzed by Western blot. Results: Compared with the control group, the myocardial injury was aggravated in the LPS group. The content of LDH and the expressions of IL-6 mRNA, CaSR and JNK were increased significantly (P＜0.05). Compared with the LPS group,myocardial injury was aggravated in the CaSR agonist group. The content of LDH and the expressions of IL-6 mRNA,CaSR and JNK were increased (P＜0.05). In the CaSR inhibitor group,myocardial injury was reduced. The content of LDH and the expressions of CaSR and JNK were decreased (P＜0.05). In the JNK inhibitor group,myocardial injury was further alleviated. The content of LDH and the expressions of IL-6 mRNA, CaSR and JNK were decreased (P＜0.05). Myocardial injury was significantly reduced in the CaSR inhibitor + JNK inhibitor group. The content of LDH and the expressions of IL-6 mRNA, CaSR and JNK were further reduced (P＜0.05). Conclusion: CaSR is involved in myocardial injury induced by LPS in neonatal rats perhaps through the JNK pathway.

Regulatory T Cells Accelerate the Repair Process of Renal Fibrosis by Regulating Mononuclear Macrophages

BACKGROUND

We aimed to investigate the mechanisms of renal fibrosis and explore the effect of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Treg) on renal fibrosis after the obstruction was removed.

METHODS

Fifty-five C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into three groups: the unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) group, the relief for unilateral ureteral obstruction (RUUO) group, and the RUUO+Treg group. Renal fibrosis indexes of RUUO mice were evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and, Masson staining and immunohistochemistry after CD4+CD25+Treg cells were injected into the tail vein at the moment of recanalization. We detected the levels of Treg, M1, and M2 markers by flow cytometry, and the levels of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and IL-10 using ELISA.

RESULTS

The tubular necrosis score, AO value of α-SMA (smooth muscle actin), and collagen area on the 3rd and 14th days post RUUO were up-regulated compared with the 7th day post RUUO (P<0.05). After injection of Treg via tail vein, the tubular necrosis score, AO value of α-SMA, TGF-β1 level, and collagen area in the RUUO+Treg group on the 14th day were down-regulated compared with the RUUO group (P<0.05). Moreover, Treg could transform M1 macrophages into M2 macrophages, manifesting as up-regulated expression of CD206 compared with the RUUO group (P<0.05). Treg could also down-regulate the secretion of IL-6 and IL-1β while up-regulating the secretion of IL-10 in vitro compared with the M1 group (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The kidney could deteriorate into a state of injury and fibrosis after the obstruction was removed, and Treg could effectively protect the kidney function.

Activation of the RAS contributes to peritoneal fibrosis via dysregulation of low-density lipoprotein receptor

Peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related peritoneal fibrosis (PF) is characterized by progressive extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation in peritoneal mesothelial cells (PMCs) during long-term use of high glucose (HG)-based dialysates. Activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has been shown to be associated with PF. The aim of this study was to explore the underlying mechanism of the RAS in HG-induced PF. We treated C57BL/6 mice and a human PMC line with HG to induce a PF model and to stimulate ECM accumulation, respectively. RAS activity was blocked using valsartan or angiotensin II (ANGII) type 1 receptor siRNA. The major findings were as follows. First, mice in the HG group exhibited increased collagen deposition and expression of ECM proteins, including α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and collagen type I in the peritoneum. Consistent with the in vivo data, HG upregulated α-SMA expression in human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMCs) in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Second, HG stimulation led to RAS activation in HPMCs, and inactivation of RAS decreased the expression of ECM proteins in vivo and in vitro, even during HG stimulation. Finally, RAS-mediated ECM production was associated with lipid accumulation in HPMCs and depended on the dysregulation of the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLr) pathway. HG-stimulated HPMCs showed increased coexpression of LDLr and α-SMA, whereas blockade of RAS activity reversed the effect. Furthermore, inhibition of LDLr signaling decreased α-SMA and collagen type I expression in HPMCs when treated with HG and ANG II. In conclusion, increased intracellular RAS activity impaired lipid homeostasis and induced ECM accumulation in HPMCs by disrupting the LDLr pathway, which contributed to PF.

Valsartan ameliorates high glucose-induced peritoneal fibrosis by blocking mTORC1 signaling

IMPACT STATEMENT

Our study provided new insight into the mechanism underlying the preservation of the peritoneum by valsartan. The results demonstrated that the mice receiving chronic high glucose (HG) peritoneal dialysis solution infusion showed a typical feature of peritoneal fibrosis (PF), as well as higher expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and collagen I. In vitro, HG increased the protein expression of α-SMA and collagen I in a dose-dependent manner, while valsartan significantly ameliorated these pathological changes. Interestingly, there was a parallel decrease in the activity of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) and the protein expression levels of α-SMA and collagen I upon treatment with valsartan in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, the mTOR agonist MHY1485 reversed the downregulation of α-SMA and collagen I in vitro, even in the presence of valsartan. Altogether, our findings reported for the first time that valsartan exerts a protective effect against HG-induced PF by inhibiting the activity of the mTORC1 pathway.

Metabolomics-driven identification of perturbations in amino acid and sphingolipid metabolism as therapeutic targets in a rat model of anorexia nervosa disease using chemometric analysis and a multivariate analysis platform

It is important to explore novel therapeutic targets and develop an effective strategy for the treatment of anorexia nervosa. In this work, serum samples were analyzed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of flight mass spectrometry (UPLC/Q-TOF MS) coupled with chemometric analysis and multivariate analysis to obtain the metabolites and their corresponding pathways. In addition, knock-in and knock-down of the key enzyme in vivo was performed to verify the reliability of the obtained metabolic pathway, which is closely associated with the anorexia nervosa pathomechanism and the potential targets. There were significant differences in the biochemical parameters between the model group and the control group. A total of 26 potential biomarkers were identified to resolve the difference between the control and model rats, which were closely related to amino acid metabolism, sphingolipid metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, the citrate cycle, and so forth. According to the ingenuity pathway analysis, we further elucidated the relationship between the gene, protein, and metabolite alteration in anorexia nervosa, which are involved in cellular compromise, lipid metabolism, small molecule biochemistry, cell signaling, molecular transport, nucleic acid metabolism, cell morphology, cellular function and maintenance. Arginosuccinate synthetase (ASS) deficiency was accompanied by a significant downregulation of the β-endorphin and ghrelin in the animal models. The metabolites and pathways obtained using the metabolomics strategy may provide valuable information for the early treatment for anorexia nervosa.

It is important to explore novel therapeutic targets and develop an effective strategy for the treatment of anorexia nervosa.

[Tea polyphenols delays human glomerular mesangial cells senescence induced by high glucose via regulating STAT3/miR-126/telomere signaling pathway activation]

The aim of this paper was to explore the effects and possible mechanisms in vitro of tea polyphenols (TP) delaying human glomerular mesangial cells (HGMCs) senescence induced by high glucose (HG). HGMCs were cultured in vitro and divided into the normal group (N, 5.5 mmol·L⁻¹ glucose), the mannitol group(MNT, 5.5 mmol·L⁻¹ glucose plus 24.5 mmol·L⁻¹ mannitol), the high dose of D-glucose group (HG, 30 mmol·L⁻¹ glucose), the low dose of TP group (L-TP, 30 mmol·L⁻¹ glucose plus 5 mg·L⁻¹ TP) and the high dose of TP group (H-TP, 30 mmol·L⁻¹ glucose plus 20 mg·L⁻¹ TP), which were cultured in 5% CO₂ at 37 °C, respectively. Firstly, the effects of TP on the cell morphology of HGMCs were observed after 72 h-intervention. Secondly, the cell cycle, the positive rate of senescence-associated-β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) staining and the telomere length were detected, respectively. Finally, the protein expressions of p53, p21 and Rb in the p53-p21-Rb signaling pathway were investigated, respectively. And the expressions of p-STAT3 and miR-126 were examined severally. The results indicated that HG not only arrested the cell cycle in G₁ phase but also increased the positive rate of SA-β-gal staining, and shortened the telomere length. HG led to the protein over-expressions of p53, p21 and Rb and HGMCs senescence by activating the p53-p21-Rb signaling pathway. In addition, L-TP delayed HGMCs senescence by improving the cell cycle G₁ arrest, reducing SA-β-gal staining positive rate and lengthening the telomere length. L-TP reduced the protein over-expressions of p53, P21 and Rb induced by HG and inhibited the telomere-p53-p21-Rb signaling pathway. Moreover, the expression of p-STAT3 was increased and the expression of miR-126 was decreased in HGMCs induced by HG. L-TP reduced the expression of p-STAT3 and increased the expression of miR-126 in HGMCs. In conclusion, HG could induce HGMCs senescence by activating the telomere-p53-p21-Rb signaling pathway in vitro. L-TP could delay HGMCs senescence through regulating STAT3/miR-126 expressions and inhibiting the telomere-p53-p21-Rb signaling pathway activation. These findings could provide the effective interventions in clinic for preventing and treating renal cell senescence in diabetic kidney disease.

Human papillomavirus vaccination and the risk of autoimmune disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination has been proven to effectively protect against HPV infection and infection-associated cancer. However, there are concerns about the relationship between HPV vaccination and the risk of autoimmune disorders (ADs). Therefore, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to comprehensively evaluate the relationship between HPV vaccination and ADs risk.

METHODS

To identify relevant studies, we conducted a systematic search in EMBASE and PubMed databases of scientific articles published through June 2018. Fixed or random effects models were adopted to estimate overall relative risk.

RESULTS

In total, 20 studies (12 cohort studies, 6 case-control studies, and 2 randomized controlled trials) involving more than 169,000 AD events were included in our meta-analysis. Our results show that HPV vaccination was not associated with an increased risk of subsequent ADs (odds ratio [OR] = 1.003, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.95-1.06), particularly among those with a prior ADs (OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.7-0.96). Most of the subgroup analysis results based on the location or type of ADs were consistent with the overall results.

CONCLUSION

No evidence of an association between HPV vaccination and ADs was found. Given the low number of estimates for individual AD, additional and larger observational studies are needed to verify our findings.

Rapamycin inhibits peritoneal fibrosis by modifying lipid homeostasis in the peritoneum

Peritoneal fibrosis (PF) is characterized by progressive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components in the peritoneum under high glucose conditions. Rapamycin has previously been shown to inhibit ECM accumulation of peritoneal mesothelial cells (PMCs) and prevent PF. Here we explored the undefined mechanisms by which rapamycin inhibits ECM accumulation of PMCs. We used high-glucose peritoneal dialysis solution (PDS) in a mouse peritoneal dialysis model to induce in vivo PF and in human PMCs in vitro to stimulate ECM accumulation. The mice that received chronic PDS infusions showed typical features of PF, including markedly increased peritoneal thickness, excessive matrix deposition, increased peritoneal permeability, and higher expressions of α-smooth muscle actin and collagen I. Rapamycin significantly ameliorated these pathological changes. There was a parallel decrease in lipid accumulation in the peritoneum of rapamycin-treated mice. Rapamycin significantly inhibited high-glucose PDS-induced ECM accumulation and reduced the lipid droplet in human PMCs in the presence of PDS. The effects of rapamycin on intracellular lipid metabolism correlated with a series of steps in lipid homeostasis; namely, a decrease in low density lipoprotein receptor-mediated lipid influx, which was mediated through the downregulation of sterol regulatory element-binding protein-2 (SREBP-2) and SREBP cleavage-activating protein (SCAP), and an increase in adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette transporter A1-mediated lipid efflux, which was mediated through the upregulation of the liver X receptor α and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α. We conclude that rapamycin shows a clear protective effect on high-glucose PDS-induced PF by improving the disruption of intracellular lipid homeostasis.

Maternal and neonatal outcomes after exposure to ADHD medication during pregnancy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications are used by increasing numbers of reproductive-age women. The safety of these medications during pregnancy has not been well described.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes associated with exposure to ADHD medication during pregnancy. The PubMed and Embase databases were searched to identify potential studies for inclusion.

RESULTS

Eight cohort studies that estimated adverse maternal or neonatal outcomes associated with exposure to ADHD medication during pregnancy were included. Exposure to ADHD medication was associated with an increased risk of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission compared with no exposure at any time (risk ratio (RR) 1.88; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.7-2.08) and compared with women with exposure either before or after pregnancy (RR 1.38; 95% CI, 1.23-1.54; P < 0.001). Exposure to methylphenidate (MPH) was marginally associated with an increased risk for cardiac malformation (RR 1.27; 95% CI, 0.99-1.63; P = 0.065) compared with no exposure. However, exposure to ADHD medication was not associated with an increased risk for other adverse maternal or neonatal outcomes. This analysis was limited by the small number of studies included and the limited adjustments for the possible confounders in the studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Exposure to ADHD medication during pregnancy does not appear to be associated with adverse maternal or neonatal outcomes. Given the few studies included, further larger, prospective studies that control for important confounders are needed to verify our findings.

Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Complex 1 Activation Disrupts the Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor Pathway: A Novel Mechanism for Extracellular Matrix Accumulation in Human Peritoneal Mesothelial Cells

Peritoneal fibrosis (PF) is characterized by progressive extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation. Increasing evidence has suggested that ECM synthesis was increased in human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMCs) under high-glucose conditions, but the effects of high-glucose peritoneal dialysis solution (PDS) on ECM synthesis have not been fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to explore the potential mechanisms of high-glucose PDS-induced production of ECM in HPMCs. HPMCs were stimulated by high-glucose PDS. The activity of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) was inhibited by rapamycin or regulatory-associated protein of mTOR (raptor) siRNA. Morphological changes in the cells were observed under an inverted microscope. Oil red O, filipin staining and high-performance liquid chromatography were used to examine lipid accumulation. The expression of low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLr) regulation, the mTORC1 pathway and ECM-associated markers were assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. The results showed that after treatment with PDS, HPMCs showed notable elongation consistent with the morphology of myofibroblasts, and the expression of ECM proteins such as α-smooth muscle actin, fibroblast specific protein-1 and collagen I was increased. In addition, there was a parallel increase in the ECM and lipid accumulation. Moreover, the effect of intracellular lipid deposition was closely correlated with the dysregulation of LDLr, which was mediated through the upregulation of LDLr, sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP) cleavage-activating protein (SCAP), and SREBP-2 and through the enhanced coexpression of the SCAP with the Golgin. Further analysis showed that PDS enhanced the protein phosphorylation of mTOR, eukaryotic initiation factor 4E-binding protein 1, and p70 S6 kinase. Interestingly, blocking mTORC1 activity reversed the dysregulation of LDLr, even in the presence of PDS. These effects were also accompanied by a decrease in the expression of ECM components. Our findings demonstrated that increased mTORC1 activity exacerbated ECM formation in HPMCs by disrupting LDLr regulation, which contributed to lipid disorder-mediated PF.

Genistein Improves the Major Depression through Suppressing the Expression of miR-221/222 by Targeting Connexin 43

OBJECTIVE

Recent studies have indicated the possibility that genistein may improve depression via regulating the expression of miR221/222. This study is to explore whether genistein could improve depression by altering miR-221/222 levels and investigate the possible mechanisms involved in the improvement effect of genistein.

METHODS

The animal model of depression was established through unpredictable chronic mild stress. Nest building test and splash test were adapted to evaluate the effects of genistein on depressive symptoms in mice. qRT-PCR and western blot analysis were used to detect the expression of miR-221/222 and connexin 43 (Cx43) in the prefrontal cortex of the mice. In vitro, U87-MG astrocytes were treated with genistein and the expression of miR-221/222 and Cx43 was measured. The dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to verify whether Cx43 was a direct target of miR-221/222.

RESULTS

The behavioral tests showed that genistein could significantly reduce depression symptoms of mice, and this remission was not affected by gender. Genistein in vivo and in vitro could reduce increased levels of miR-221 and miR-222 in the prefrontal cortex of depressed mice, while upregulate Cx43 expression. Dual-luciferase reporter assay suggested Cx43 was directly regulated by miR-221/222 in astrocytes.

CONCLUSION

Genistein can play its antidepressant effect through down-regulating miR-221/222 by targeting Cx43.

Relationship between CaSRs and LPS-injured cardiomyocytes

OBJECTIVE

Calcium-sensing receptors (CaSRs) regulate systemic calcium homeostasis. Intracellular calcium concentration changes are initiating factors of endoplasmic reticulum stress and cell autophagy. Recent research has revealed that CaSRs play an important role in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury and other cardiovascular diseases. However, it remains unclear whether CaSRs are involved in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cardiomyocyte injury.

METHODS

Cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were treated with LPS, with or without pretreatment by a CaSR specific agonist SC-211006 or CaSR specific antagonist SC-207394. The ultrastructure of cardiomyocytes was observed using a transmission electron microscope, and the expression of CaSR, GRP78, LC3B, CytC and Bcl-2 proteins were detected by western blot.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, LPS increased cardiomyocyte injury and the expression of CaSR, GRP78, LC3B and CytC proteins, but decreased the expression of Bcl-2. Compared with the LPS group, pretreatment with SC-211006 further enhanced cardiomyocyte damage and the expression of CaSR, GRP78, LC3B and CytC, but reduced the expression of Bcl-2. Conversely, pretreatment with SC-207394 decreased cardiomyocyte injury and the protein expression of CaSR, GRP78, LC3B and CytC, but increased the expression of Bcl-2.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that CaSRs are involved in LPS-induced rat cardiomyocyte injury via the activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress and autophagy.

Triptolide suppresses paraquat induced idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis by inhibiting TGFB1-dependent epithelial mesenchymal transition

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and tumor are highly similar to abnormal cell proliferation that damages the body. This malignant cell evolution in a stressful environment closely resembles that of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). As a popular EMT-inducing factor, TGFβ plays an important role in the progression of multiple diseases. However, the drugs that target TGFB1 are limited. In this study, we found that triptolide (TPL), a Chinese medicine extract, exerts an anti-lung fibrosis effect by inhibiting the EMT of lung epithelial cells. In addition, triptolide directly binds to TGFβ and subsequently increase E-cadherin expression and decrease vimentin expression. In in vivo studies, TPL improves the survival state and inhibits lung fibrosis in mice. In summary, this study revealed the potential therapeutic effect of paraquat induced TPL in lung fibrosis by regulating TGFβ-dependent EMT progression.

Induction of Salivary Gland-Like Cells from Dental Follicle Epithelial Cells

The dental follicle (DF), most often associated with unerupted teeth, is a condensation of ectomesenchymal cells that surrounds the tooth germ in early stages of tooth development. In the present study, we aim to isolate epithelial stem-like cells from the human DF and explore their potential differentiation into salivary gland (SG) cells. We demonstrated the expression of stem cell-related genes in the epithelial components of human DF tissues, and these epithelial progenitor cells could be isolated and ex vivo expanded in a reproducible manner. The human DF-derived epithelial cells possessed clonogenic and sphere-forming capabilities, as well as expressed a panel of epithelial stem cell-related genes, thus conferring stem cell properties (hDF-EpiSCs). When cultured under in vitro 3-dimensional induction conditions, hDF-EpiSCs were capable to differentiate into SG acinar and duct cells. Furthermore, transplantation of hDF-EpiSC-loaded native de-cellularized rat parotid gland scaffolds into the renal capsule of nude mice led to the differentiation of transplanted hDF-EpiSCs into salivary gland-like cells. These findings suggest that hDF-EpiSCs might be a promising source of epithelial stem cells for the development of stem cell-based therapy or bioengineering SG tissues to repair/regenerate SG dysfunction.

Cerebrospinal fluid neuron specific enolase, interleukin-1β and erythropoietin concentrations in children after seizures

PURPOSE

In the present study, the levels of neuron-specific enolase (NSE), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and erythropoietin (EPO) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in children with idiopathic epilepsy were measured to illuminate the relationships between these markers with idiopathic epilepsy.

METHODS

Eighty-five children from 6 months to 12.5 years of age with single, previously undiagnosed, and untreated idiopathic epilepsy were participated in this study. The concentrations of CSF NSE, 1L-1β, and EPO were measured by specific ELISA methods.

RESULTS

The mean concentrations of CSF NSE, IL-1β, and EPO in the epileptic groups showed a significant increase (P < 0.01) compared with those in the control groups. Besides, the mutual correlations of NSE, 1L-1β, and EPO were also analyzed. Results showed that there were positive correlations between the levels of IL-1β, NSE, and EPO.

CONCLUSIONS

The changes of NSE, 1L-1β, and EPO level in CSF may be beneficial for the pathophysiology study of epileptic seizures and the identification and diagnosis of a seizure clinically.

Mechanisms and roles by which IRF-3 mediates the regulation of ORMDL3 transcription in respiratory syncytial virus infection

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of bronchiolitis in infancy, which is a major risk factor for recurrent wheezing and asthma. Orosomucoid 1-like protein 3 (ORMDL3) has been reported to associate with virus-triggered recurrent wheezing and asthma in children. However, little is known about how ORMDL3 is involved into RSV infection. In this study, we showed that the mRNA expression of ORMDL3 is significantly increased in the peripheral blood lymphocytes of infants with RSV-induced bronchiolitis compared with uninfected controls, also increased in bronchial epithelial cells and lung fibroblasts following RSV infection in vitro. To investigate the underlying mechanisms of RSV-induced ORMDL3 expression, we performed in silico analysis of the binding sites of several transcription factors in the ORMDL3 promoter. The proximal interferon-regulatory factor-3 (IRF-3) binding site positively regulated ORMDL3 transcription following exposure to RSV, as determined through mutational analysis. Overexpression and RNA interference experiments targeting IRF-3 showed that it regulates the expression of ORMDL3 following RSV exposure. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay showed that IRF-3 binds directly to the promoter of the ORMDL3 gene. Furthermore, we confirmed that expression of IRF-3 is significantly increased and shows a strong linear correlation with increased ORMDL3 in the peripheral blood lymphocytes from infants with RSV-induced bronchiolitis. Our results indicate that IRF-3 is an important regulator of ORMDL3 induction following RSV infection by binding directly to the promoter of ORMDL3, which may be implicated in the inflammatory and immune reactions involved in bronchiolitis and wheezing diseases.

Effects of continuous renal replacement therapy on serum cytokines, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, and prognosis in patients with severe acute kidney injury after cardiac surgery

The aim of our study was to evaluate the effect of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) on serum cytokines, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), and prognosis in patients with severe acute kidney injury (AKI) following cardiac surgery. A total number of 153 patients with severe AKI following cardiac surgery were treated with CRRT. They were divided into the survival and non-survival groups. Clinical data from these two groups before and after CRRT were recorded and analyzed. It was found that the number of impaired organs, MODS and APACHE II scores were significantly higher in the non-survival group than those in the survival group before CRRT. After CRRT, MODS and APACHE II scores decreased significantly. The post-CRRT levels of serum TNF-a and IL-6 were significantly decreased. After CRRT, serum NGAL decreased in the two groups, but the levels were higher in the non-survival group than those in the survival group. MODS and APACHE II scores could be used to evaluate the severity of AKI in patients after cardiac surgery. CRRT is an effective treatment for these patients and high levels of TNF-a, IL-6, and NGAL are associated with a poor prognosis in these patients.

Expression of interferon regulatory factor 5 is regulated by the Sp1 transcription factor

The transcription factor, interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5), is important in the induction of type I interferon, proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, and is involved in autoimmune diseases and tumourigenesis. However, the mechanisms underlying the transcriptional regulation of wild‑type IRF5 remain to be fully elucidated. The present study was primarily designed to clarify whether specificity protein 1 (Sp1) was involved in the regulation of IRF5. Initially, the IRF5 promoter region was cloned and its promoter activity was examined using Hela and HEK 293 cells. Deletion analyses revealed that the region spanning ‑179 to +62 was the minimal promoter of IRF5. Bioinformatics analyses showed that this region contained three putative Sp1 binding sites, and mutational analyses revealed that all the Sp1 sites contributed to transcriptional activity. Secondly, the overexpression of Sp1 was found to increase the activity of the IRF5 promoter and the mRNA level of IRF5, determined using reporter gene assays and polymerase chain reaction analysis, respectively. By contrast, treatment with mithramycin and Sp1 small interfering RNA significantly reduced the activity of the IRF5 promoter and the mRNA level of IRF5. Finally, the results of an electrophoretic mobility shift assay and a chromatin immunoprecipitation assay demonstrated that Sp1 bound to the promoter region of IRF5 in vitro and in vivo. These results suggested that the Sp1 transcription factor is the primary determinant for activating the basal transcription of the IRF5.

Analysis of differentially expressed genes based on microarray data of glioma

Glioma represents one of the main causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Unfortunately, its exact molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood, which limits the prognosis and therapy. This study aimed to identify the critical genes, transcription factors and the possible biochemical pathways that may affect glioma progression at transcription level. After downloading micro-array data from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between glioma and normal samples were screened. We predicted novel glioma-related genes and carried on online software DAVID to conduct GO enrichment and transcription factor analysis of these selected genes. String software was applied to construct a PPI protein interaction network, as well as to find the key genes and transcription factors in the regulation of glioma. A total of 97 DEGs were identified associated with cancer, the GO enrichment analysis indicated these DEGs were mainly relevant to immune responses as well as regulation of cell growth. In addition, the transcription factor analysis showed these DEGs were regulated by the binding sites of transcription factors GLI2, SP1, SMAD7, SMAD3, RELA, STAT5B, CTNNB1, STAT5A, TFAP2A and SP3. PPI protein interaction network analysis demonstrated the hub nodes in the interaction network were EGFR, TGFB1, FN1 and MYC. The hub DEGs may be the most critical in glioma and could be considered as drug targets for glioma therapy after further exploration. Besides, with the identification of regulating transcription factors, the pathogenesis of glioma at transcription level might be brought to light.

Early amplitude-integrated EEG monitoring 6 h after birth predicts long-term neurodevelopment of asphyxiated late preterm infants

The present study aimed to assess the prognostic value of early amplitude-integrated electroencephalogram (aEEG) in late preterm infants who were born at a gestational age between 34 0/7 and 36 6/7 weeks for the prediction of neurobehavioral development. Late preterm infants (n = 170) with normal, mild, and severe asphyxia underwent continuous recording of aEEG for 4-6 h starting 6-8 h after delivery. The recordings were analyzed for background pattern, sleep-wake cycle (SWC), and seizures. Survivors were assessed at 18 months by neurological examination and Bayley Scales of Infant Development II. The incidence of adverse neurological outcome in the asphyxia group was significantly higher than in the normal group. For late preterm infants in the asphyxia group, abnormal aEEG pattern had a predictive potential of neurological outcomes with sensitivity of 78.57% (specificity, 87.80%; positive predictive value [PPV], 68.75%; negative predictive value [NPV], 92.31%; power, 85.45%). Non-SWC and intermediate SWC significantly were increased (25.45 and 52.73%, respectively) in the asphyxia group vs. the normal group. SWC pattern had neurological prognosis value in the asphyxia group with sensitivity of 64.29% (specificity, 87.80%; PPV, 64.29%; NPV, 87.80%; power, 81.82%).

CONCLUSION

Early aEEG patterns are important determinants of long-term prognosis of neurodevelopmental outcome in asphyxiated late preterm infants.

E3 ubiquitin ligase Cbl-b suppresses human ORMDL3 expression through STAT6 mediation

Orosomucoid 1-Like Protein 3 (ORMDL3) is an asthma candidate gene and Casitas B lineage lymphoma b (Cbl-b), an E3 ubiquitin ligase, is a critical factor in maintaining airway immune tolerance. However, the association of Cbl-b with ORMDL3 for asthma is unclear. Here, we show that expression of ORMDL3 is significantly increased and shows a strong linear correlation with decreased Cbl-b in the peripheral blood of recurrent wheeze patients. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying this correlation, we identified that Cbl-b suppressed the transcriptional activity and mRNA expression of ORMDL3 in vivo. Further investigation showed that phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) was induced by interleukin 4 bound to the ORMDL3 promoter, while Cbl-b reduced the phosphorylation of STAT6. Our results show that Cbl-b suppresses human ORMDL3 expression through STAT6.

Overexpression of a Populus trichocarpa H+-pyrophosphatase gene PtVP1.1 confers salt tolerance on transgenic poplar

The Arabidopsis vacuolar H(+)-pyrophosphatase (AVP1) has been well studied and subsequently employed to improve salt and/or drought resistance in herbaceous plants. However, the exact function of H(+)-pyrophosphatase in woody plants still remains unknown. In this work, we cloned a homolog of type I H(+)-pyrophosphatase gene, designated as PtVP1.1, from Populus trichocarpa, and investigated its function in both Arabidopsis and poplar. The deduced translation product PtVP1.1 shares 89.74% identity with AVP1. Semi-quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and quantitative real-time PCR analyses revealed a ubiquitous expression pattern of PtVP1.1 in various tissues, including roots, stems, leaves and shoot tips. Heterologous expression of PtVP1.1 rescued the retarded-root-growth phenotype of avp1, an Arabidopsis knock out mutant of AVP1, on low carbohydrate medium. Overexpression of PtVP1.1 in poplar (P. davidiana × P. bolleana) led to more vigorous growth of transgenic plants in the presence of 150 mM NaCl. Microsomal membrane vesicles derived from PtVP1.1 transgenic plants exhibited higher H(+)-pyrophosphatase hydrolytic activity than those from wild type (WT). Further studies indicated that the improved salt tolerance was associated with a decreased Na(+) and increased K(+) accumulation in the leaves of transgenic plants. Na(+) efflux and H(+) influx in the roots of transgenic plants were also significantly higher than those in the WT plants. All these results suggest that PtVP1.1 is a functional counterpart of AVP1 and can be genetically engineered for salt tolerance improvement in trees.

Effects of hypoxia on the immunomodulatory properties of human gingiva-derived mesenchymal stem cells

The environment of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is hypoxic, which plays an important role in maintaining their self-renewal potential and undifferentiated state. MSCs have been proven to possess immunomodulatory properties and have been used clinically to treat autoimmune diseases. Here, we tested the effects of hypoxia on the immunomodulatory properties of MSCs and examined its possible underlying mechanisms. We found that hypoxic stimulation promoted the immunomodulatory properties of human gingiva-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hGMSCs) by enhancing the suppressive effects of hGMSCs on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). The proliferation of PBMCs was significantly inhibited, while the apoptosis of PBMCs was increased, which was associated with the Fas ligand (FasL) expression of hGMSCs. The in vivo study showed that systemically infused hGMSCs could enhance skin wound repair, and 24-h hypoxic stimulation significantly promoted the reparative capacity of hGMSCs. For mechanism, hGMSC treatment inhibited the local inflammation of injured skin by suppressing the inflammatory cells, reducing the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and increasing anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10), which was promoted by hypoxia. Hypoxia preconditioning may be a good optimizing method to promote the potential of MSCs for the future cell-based therapy.

[Basic features and monitoring methodologies of atmospheric nitrogen deposition]

Atmospheric nitrogen (N) deposition, including dry and wet deposition, is an important inorganic and organic N source for ecosystems, and also a key link of the N biogeochemical cycle. Recently, considerable active nitrogen has been emitted into the atmosphere due to enhanced human activities. High N emission leads to high deposition which has caused a series of environment risks, and more attentions have been focused on this issue. This article gave an overview of the basic content about the present N deposition research, such as the component, process, spatial and temporal variation, as well as ecological effect. Then the sampling methods of wet and dry deposition in the field, analysis methods in laboratory and primary techniques of N source identification were summarized. The N deposition research trend in the future was emphasized.

Atmospheric organic nitrogen deposition: analysis of nationwide data and a case study in Northeast China

The origin of atmospheric dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) deposition is not very clear at present. Across China, the DON deposition was substantially larger than that of world and Europe, and we found significant positive correlation between contribution of DON and the deposition flux with pristine site data lying in outlier, possibly reflecting the acute air quality problems in China. For a case study in Northeast China, we revealed the deposited DON was mainly derived from intensive agricultural activities rather than the natural sources by analyzing the compiled dataset across China and correlating DON flux with NH4(+)-N and NO3(-)-N. Crop pollens and combustion of fossil fuels for heating probably contributed to summer and autumn DON flux respectively. Overall, in Northeast China, DON deposition could exert important roles in agro-ecosystem nutrient management and carbon sequestration of natural ecosystems; nationally, it was suggested to found rational network for monitoring DON deposition.

Relationship between plasma copeptin levels and complications of community-acquired pneumonia in preschool children

High plasma copeptin level has been associated with clinical outcomes after acute illness. The present study was undertaken to investigate the plasma copeptin concentrations in preschool children with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and to analyze the correlations of copeptin with CAP-related complications and pleural effusion. Plasma copeptin concentrations of 100 healthy children and 165 preschool children with CAP were measured. 35 children (21.2%) presented with complicated CAP and 28 children (17.0%) presented with pleural effusion. The admission copeptin levels were significantly increased in all patients (49.7 ± 21.4 pmol/L), children with complicated CAP (73.0 ± 16.9 pmol/L), those with uncomplicated CAP (43.4 ± 17.8 pmol/L), those with pleural effusion (70.9 ± 17.4 pmol/L) and those without pleural effusion (45.3 ± 19.5 pmol/L) compared with healthy control individuals (9.0 ± 2.7 pmol/L, all P<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that plasma copeptin levels were independently related to CAP-related complications (odds ratio 1.214, 95% confidence interval 1.104-1.872, P<0.001) and pleural effusion (odds ratio 1.226, 95% confidence interval 1.109-1.917, P<0.001). A receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed plasma copeptin level better predicted CAP-related complications (area under curve 0.876, 95% confidence interval 0.815-0.922) and pleural effusion (area under curve 0.831, 95% confidence interval 0.765-0.885). Thus, plasma copeptin level may represent a novel biomarker for predicting CAP-related complications in preschool children.

[Analysis on concentration, distribution and budgets of Mn and Zn in soybean by using ICP-AES]

The concentration and distribution of Mn and Zn in soil and soybean in lower reach of Liaohe River Plain were investigated with ICP-AES analysis. The results showed that the available Zn in soils was close to the critical value and the monitoring should be strengthened. Zn concentration in seed and stalk, coupled with Mn in stalk, was not affected by fertilization types, while Mn concentration in seed under NPK and NPKO treatments was significantly higher than that with O and CK treatments. Application of organic and inorganic fertilizer increased crop biomass, and consequently increased Mn and Zn storage in soybean. In soil-crop system, Mn and Zn under different fertilization regimes showed budget deficit, with the deficit order of NPKO < O < CK < NPK, indicating that nutrient cycling could decrease the deficit significantly and keep the ecological systems more sustainable.

[Stoichiometric characteristics of leaf carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus of 102 dominant species in forest ecosystems along the North-South Transect of East China]

One hundred and twelve sampling sites in the forest ecosystems along the North-South Transect of Eastern China (NSTEC) were selected to study the stoichiometric characteristics and variability of leaf carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorous (P) of 102 dominant species. The contents of leaf C (Cmass), leaf N (Nmass), and leaf P (Pmass) ranged in 374.1-646.5 mg x g(-1), 8.4-30.5 mg x g(-1), and 0.6-6.2 mg x g(-1), with the arithmetic mean (AM) being 480.1, 18.3 and 2.0 mg x g(-1), and the variation coefficient (CV) being 11.1%, 27.5%, and 56.4%, respectively. The leaf C/N, C/P and N/P ranged from 14.1 to 64.1, from 70.9 to 838.6, and from 1.5 to 21.2, with the AM being 29.1, 313.9 and 11.5, and the CV being 32.8%, 48.3% and 44.1%, respectively. The mass ratio of C:N:P was 313.9:11.5:1, and the atom ratio was 810.9:25.4:1. As compared with those at global scale, the tree leaf Cmass and C/N in the study area were significantly higher, Nmass and N/P were significantly lower, while Pmass and C/P had less differences.

[The recycling rate and budget of trace element Mn and Cu in agroecosystem using ICP-AES]

The recycling rate and budget of Mn and Cu under different fertilization regimes by using long-term field experiment and ICP-AES analysis were investigated in the present paper. The results showed that the recycling rates of Mn and Cu were greater than 80% because of sediment recycling type, and the values increased with the amount of feed stuffs increasing. Both the two elements under different fertilization regimes showed budget deficit, with the deficit order of M< (or < or =)NPK + M < CK < NPK, showing that chemical fertilizer application might induce severe deficit, while application of recycling organic matter might minimize the unbalance.

[Effects of edaravone on the expression of GRP78, Caspase-12, and neuron apoptosis in juvenile rat hippocampus after status convulsive]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the expression of GRP78 (glucose regulated protein, GRP78), Caspase-12 and the change of neuron apoptosis in the juvenile rat hippocampus after status convulsive (SC), and to explore the effect of edaravone on them.

METHODS

One hundred and ninety-five juvenile male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into normal saline control group (NS group), status convulsive group (SC group) and edaravone treatment group (ED group). Each group was further divided into five subgroups in different executed time points after SC. The rats in status convulsive group were kindled into epilepsy by lithium-pilocarpine method. Expression of GRP78 mRNA and caspase-12 mRNA was detected with reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method. Expressions of GRP78 and caspase-12 protein were detected with immunohistochemical methods. The neuron apoptosis was observed by TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL).

RESULTS

(1) Measured by immunohistochemistry the value of OD of GRP78 (0.1480 ± 0.0164, 0.1682 ± 0.0114, and 0.1540 ± 0.0102, respectively, 12 h - 48 h points) and caspase-12 (0.1325 ± 0.0165, 0.1794 ± 0.0213, 0.1525 ± 0.0423, and 0.1309 ± 0.0199, respectively, 12 h-72 h points) positive cells in the SC group increased, there was a significant difference compared with NS group (GRP78: 0.1214 ± 0.0147, 0.1272 ± 0.0177, and 0.1260 ± 0.0157, respectively, 12 h-72 h points. Caspase-12: 0.1050 ± 0.0121, 0.1041 ± 0.0151, 0.1058 ± 0.0222, and 0.1036 ± 0.0186, respectively, 12 h - 72 h points) (P < 0.01, or P < 0.05). By ED intervention GRP78 (0.1550 ± 0.0131, 0.1886 ± 0.0154, and 0.1721 ± 0.0151, respectively, 12 h - 48 h points) positive cells value of the OD increased as compared with SC group (P < 0.01, or P < 0.05). and caspase-12 (0.1211 ± 0.0184, 0.1545 ± 0.0205, and 0.1085 ± 0.0219, respectively, 12 h, 24 h and 72 h points) positive cells value of the A decreased as compared with SC group (P < 0.01, or P < 0.05). (2) Measured by RT-PCR, the expression of GRP78 mRNA and caspase-12 mRNA trend was similar to protein. (3) The TUNEL positive cells in hippocampus CA(1) of SC group (11.41 ± 2.37) were more than that of NS group after the SC 12 h (P < 0.01), reached its highest level at 48 h (28.78 ± 5.11), after the intervention with edaravone (8.98 ± 2.22, 13.09 ± 2.54 and 20.57 ± 4.89, respectively, 12 h-48 h points), TUNEL positive cells showed a significant drop in SC group at 12 h-48 h time points (P < 0.01, or P < 0.05), but still significantly higher than that of the NS group (6.22 ± 1.50, 6.57 ± 1.61 and 6.72 ± 1.14, respectively) (P < 0.01, or P < 0.05), at the 4 h time point (NS group 6.29 ± 1.49, SC group 6.61 ± 1.71, ED group 5.75 ± 1.41) among the three groups, no significant difference in TUNEL positive cells was found (P = 0.759).

CONCLUSIONS

The expression of GRP78 and caspase-12 increased after SC. Edaravone increased expression of GRP78 and decreased expression of caspase-12 in hippocampus rat with pilocarpine-induced seizures, reduced the number of neuronal apoptosis. These results suggest that edaravone may have protective effect against the hippocampal damage caused by status convulsive.

[Effects of recombinant human erythropoietin on serum levels of neuron-specific enolase, S-100β protein and myelin basic protein in rats following status epilepticus]

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the effect of recombinant human erythropoietin (r-HuEPO) on the serum levels of neuron-specific enolase (NSE), S-100β protein and myelin basic protein (MBP) in young rats 24 hrs after lithium-pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus (SE) in order to study the potential role of r-HuEPO in epileptic brain damage.

METHODS

Forty 19-21-day-old male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into four groups (n=10): normal control group, SE, r-HuEPO pretreated-SE and r-HuEPO. SE was induced by lithium-pilocarpine. R-HuEPO (500 IU/kg) was intraperitoneally injected in the r-HuEPO pretreated-SE and r-HuEPO groups 4 hrs before SE. Serum levels of NSE, S-100β and MBP were determined 24 hrs after the SE event.

RESULTS

Serum levels of NSE, S-100β and MBP in the SE group increased significantly compared with those in the normal control and the r-HuEPO groups (P＜0.05). The r-HuEPO pretreated-SE group showed significantly decreased serum levels of NSE, S-100β and MBP compared with the SE group (P＜0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

r-HuEPO may reduce the expression of NSE, S-100β and MBP and thus might provide an early protective effect against epileptic brain injury.

Clinical application of one-port laparoscopic placement of peritoneal dialysis catheters

OBJECTIVE

Laparoscopic techniques for placement of peritoneal dialysis catheters are becoming increasingly popular. This study describes an one-port laparoscopic technique for insertion of peritoneal dialysis catheters.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Eighteen consecutive chronic renal failure patients underwent laparoscopic placement of Swan-neck catheters. All patients were eligible to receive local infiltration anaesthesia and none had had a previous peritoneal catheter placed. Videoscopic monitoring was performed via a peel-away sheath through an incision near the umbilicus; a 16 Fr peel-away sheath was then inserted towards the bladder and rectum. A Swan-neck catheter was passed through the peel-away sheath into the true pelvis. A subcutaneous tunnel was created and a point in left lower quadrant was selected as the exit site of the catheter.

RESULTS

All the catheters were successfully placed and the mean time of operation was 26.5 min (range 14-35 min). The patients were discharged 2-4 days following the operation. During a mean follow-up period of 10.6 months (range 6-18 months), there were no catheter-related complications, such as catheter migration, dialysate leakage, exit-site infection and bacterial peritonitis.

CONCLUSIONS

One-port laparoscopic technique is a simple, safe and effective method for placement of peritoneal dialysis catheters.

[In situ UV-visible absorption spectrum monitoring the electrochemical degradation of PAn films]

Kinetic degradation process of PAn films during aniline polymerization was in situ monitored by UV-Visible absorption spectrum. The effects of anodic potential, acidity and monomer concentration on the degradation process were also investigated. The experiment results displayed that the more positive the anodic potential, the higher the acidity of the solution, the higher the concentration of aniline, the faster the PAn films degradation speed. Which was similar to the results obtained when the kinetic degradation process of PAn films was studied in blank solutions by cyclic voltammetry.

[Clinical observation on effect of chemotherapy combined with Chinese medicine in treating advanced tumor patients and on immunologic parameters]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effects of chemotherapy combined with Chinese herbal medicine (Spleen-Kidney tonifying) in treating advanced tumor patients and on immune parameters.

METHODS

One hundred and one advanced tumor patients were randomly divided into the treated group (54 patients) treated by Chinese medicine combined with chemotherapy, and the control group (47 patients) treated by chemotherapy alone. After being treated for 8 weeks (2 treatment courses), the changes of tumor size, body weight, Karnofsky scores, immunologic parameters, peripheral blood cells, as well as the toxic and side-effects were also studied.

RESULTS

Improvement of various degree was obtained on the immunologic parameters such as CD3, CD4, CD4/CD8, NK cells, and the quality of life, as Karnofsky score in the treated group, in comparing with those in the control group the difference was significant (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). But on behalf of the toxic and side-effects in advanced patients, there was no significant difference between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Chemotherapy combined with Chinese Spleen-Kidney tonifying drugs could improve the immunologic functions in the advanced tumor patients.

Determination of random- and blockwise-type de-esterified pectins by capillary zone electrophoresis

Capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) was employed to determine the correlations between migration time and degree of esterification (DE) of pectinesterase-de-esterified pectins (PDPs) and alkaline-de-esterified pectins (ADPs) using 50 mM phosphate buffer (pH 6.5) as carrier electrolyte solution and 15 KV as applied voltage. Results showed that pectins with higher DEs exhibited shorter migration times. Linear correlation (r = 0.995) between migration time and DE of ADPs was observed, whereas down-curve correlation in PDPs was observed, regardless of the capillary length used (effective length, 30 and 60 cm). In addition, PDP appeared to migrate faster than ADP with the same DE under the same experimental conditions.

Basic fibroblast growth factor as a growth factor for SRV-2-infected simian retroperitoneal fibromatosis cells, an animal model for AIDS related Kaposi's sarcoma

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) were demonstrated to be important factors sustaining the growth of Kaposi's sarcoma. RF cells were used to provide a model to study the pathogenesis of Kaposi's sarcoma. In this paper, we demonstrated that bFGF is present in the RF cells, cultured media, and tissues from monkey. The biological activities of bFGF on RF cells were also studied in vitro with serum-free media. The bFGF from serum-free-conditioned media is biologically active to stimulate RF cells in certain media condition. The mitogenic effect was abrogated by sheep neutralizing anti-bFGF antibody. Furthermore, the effect of antibody was reversed by the addition of exogenous bFGF. ELISA measurements indicating the growth potency of conditioned media correlated with the amount of bFGF in the conditioned media. The data from flow cytometry demonstrated the co-existence of SRV-2 and bFGF among RF cells and RF tissues. Immunohistochemical staining of RF tissue blocks for bFGF revealed that bFGF was present in the tumor and the presence of bFGF was not caused by the artifact of tissue culture. These results indicate that bFGF is an important growth factor to promote RF cell growth in vitro and RF tumor in vivo. Further studies are required to determine the relationship between the interaction of bFGF, SRV-2, and VEGF. This model also provides an adequate alternative to the model induced by simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) to study the Kaposi's sarcoma.

Change in particle size of pectin reacted with pectinesterase isozymes from pea (Pisum sativum L.) sprout

Four pectinesterase (PE) isozymes were isolated by CM-Sepharose CL-6B chromatography from etiolated pea (Pisum sativum L.) sprouts and then reacted with citrus pectin (degree of esterification = 68%, 30-100 kDa) to observe the change in pectin particle size using a laser particle size analyzer. After incubation of a pectin-PE mixture (pH 6.5) at 30 degrees C for 4 h, PE 1 was observed to catalyze the transacylation reaction most remarkably, increasing the particle size from approximately 50-70 to approximately 250-350 nm, followed by PE 3, PE 2, and PE 4.

Quantification of L-ascorbic acid and total ascorbic acid in fruits and spinach by capillary zone electrophoresis

A standard curve for the quantification of L-ascorbic acid (L-AA) by capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) was established, and the quantification of ascorbic acid and total ascorbic acid in fruits (lemon, Sunkist, and pineapple) and spinach were performed using D-isoascorbic acid (D-IAA) as an internal standard. The minimum detection limits (MDLs) for L-AA and D-IAA were determined to be 1 and 2 microg/mL, respectively, at 265 nm. Dehydroascorbic acid (DHAA) in fruits and spinach was quantified in the presence of DL-homocysteine. The recoveries for L-AA in these juices were between 95 and 105%.

Development of mustard oil-induced hyperalgesia in rats

Age-dependent changes in nociceptive responses were investigated using either the electromyogram (EMG) recorded from the hamstring muscle in response to electrical stimulation of the hind foot in spinal transected rats or measurement of the tail-flick (TF) reflex latency in intact rats. The development of hyperalgesia produced by topical application of mustard oil was subsequently studied. In experiments involving EMG recordings, rats were tested from day 2 to day 34 after birth (4-day interval) and as adults. In experiments involving measurement of the TF reflex, rats were tested from day 5 to day 30 after birth (5-day interval) and as adults. It was found that the latency and the duration of an early component of the EMG decreased with an increase in animal age, and was similar to adult animals at approximately 18 days after birth. The thermal tail withdraw threshold was lower in pups in comparison with older rats, and took more than 30 postnatal days to become similar to that of adult rats. Although nociceptive behaviors such as biting, body movement, and vocalization could be produced in intact rats by mustard oil in rats as young as 5 days old, the intensities of these responses were subjectively less than those of adult rats. Mustard oil application enhanced significantly the EMG response to electrical stimulation and the effect increased with increasing age. Similarly, mustard oil applied to a hind leg facilitated the TF reflex (decreased response latency). In both experiments, it took approximately 34-40 postnatal days for mustard oil-produced hyperalgesia to become similar to that of adult rats. These data confirm that nociceptive processing is not mature in the young animal and that a developmental period after birth is required for hyperalgesia-related mechanisms to mature.