Correlation between platelet-derived growth factor-B gene polymorphism and coronary heart disease

OBJECT

The aim of the present work was to investigate the correlation of plasma platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB level and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP, rs1800817 and rs2285094) of PDGF-B gene with the onset and stability condition of coronary heart disease (CHD).

METHODS

Totally, 335 subjects were included in and divided into CHD (n = 247) and control group (n = 88) according to coronary angiography. Besides, the patients in the CHD group were divided into acute coronary syndrome (ACS) group (n = 165) and stable angina pectoria (SAP) group (n = 82), based on CHD stability condition. The plasma PDGF-BB level was measured by ELISA, and the genotype of PDGF-B was examined through qPCR assay.

RESULTS

The PDGF-BB level was positively correlated with hsCRP level (r = 0.149, p < 0.05). The genotype frequencies of SNP rs1800817 and rs2285094 match Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. There was weak linkage disequilibrium between SNP rs1800817 and rs2285094: D' = 0.419, r²  = 0.04, which has no correlation with CHD. There was no statistical difference in plasma PDGF-BB level among different genotypes in rs1800817 and rs2285094. There were no differences in the plasma PDGF-BB level among patients with any genotype of SNP rs1800817 and rs2285094, no matter how it was grouped. Logistic regression results indicated that the plasma PDGF-BB level was the independent risk factor of CHD onset (OR = 1.003, 95% CI 1.001-1.006, p = 0.014).

CONCLUSIONS

High plasma PDGF-BB level is the risk factor of CHD and has correlation with instability of CHD. The plasma PDGF-BB level change may be related to inflammatory response. PDGF-B gene rs1800817 and rs2285094 polymorphisms are not correlated with CHD.

The complete mitochondrial genome of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus): using nanopore long reads to investigate gene transfer from chloroplast genomes and rearrangements of mitochondrial DNA molecules

Background

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) is an economically important crop and is known for its slimy juice, which has significant scientific research value. The A. esculentus chloroplast genome has been reported; however, the sequence of its mitochondrial genome is still lacking.

Results

We sequenced the plastid and mitochondrial genomes of okra based on Illumina short reads and Nanopore long reads and conducted a comparative study between the two organelle genomes. The plastid genome of okra is highly structurally conserved, but the mitochondrial genome of okra has been confirmed to have abundant subgenomic configurations. The assembly results showed that okra’s mitochondrial genome existed mainly in the form of two independent molecules, which could be divided into four independent molecules through two pairs of long repeats. In addition, we found that four pairs of short repeats could mediate the integration of the two independent molecules into one complete molecule at a low frequency. Subsequently, we also found extensive sequence transfer between the two organelles of okra, where three plastid-derived genes (psaA, rps7 and psbJ) remained intact in the mitochondrial genome. Furthermore, psbJ, psbF, psbE and psbL were integrated into the mitochondrial genome as a conserved gene cluster and underwent pseudogenization as nonfunctional genes. Only psbJ retained a relatively complete sequence, but its expression was not detected in the transcriptome data, and we speculate that it is still nonfunctional. Finally, we characterized the RNA editing events of protein-coding genes located in the organelle genomes of okra.

Conclusions

In the current study, our results not only provide high-quality organelle genomes for okra but also advance our understanding of the gene dialogue between organelle genomes and provide information to breed okra cultivars efficiently.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-022-08706-2.

Downregulation of miR-637 promotes vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration via regulation of insulin-like growth factor-2

Background

Dysregulation of the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is a crucial cause of atherosclerosis. MiR-637 exerts an antiproliferative effect on multiple human cells. Its impact on atherosclerosis remains largely unexplored.

Methods

Real-time PCR was used to determine miR-637 expression in samples from atherosclerosis patients and animal models. Its expression in VSMC dysfunction models (induced by ox-LDL) was also measured. The proliferation and migration of VSMCs were respectively tested using CCK-8 and Transwell assays, and apoptosis was measured using flow cytometry. The Targetscan database was used to predict the target genes of miR-637. Interaction between miR-637 and the potential target gene was validated via real-time PCR, western blotting and a luciferase reporter assay.

Results

MiR-637 expression was significantly lower in atherosclerosis patient and animal model samples. It also decreased in a dose- and time-dependent manner in animal models with ox-LDL-induced atherosclerosis. Transfection with miR-637 mimics suppressed the proliferation and migration of VSMCs while promoting apoptosis, while transfection with miR-637 inhibitors had the opposite effects. We also validated that insulin-like growth factor-2 (IGF-2), a crucial factor in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, serves as a target gene for miR-637.

Conclusion

MiR-637 targeting IGF-2 contributes to atherosclerosis inhibition and could be a potential target for this disease.

Serum D-dimer as a potential new biomarker for prognosis in patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a life-threatening disease, and its mortality rate is 10% to 20%. However, there are currently only a few markers to predict the prognosis in patients with TTP. We aimed to identify several clinical indices and laboratory parameters for predicting the prognosis of TTP at admission.A single-centre observational cohort study that included patients with TTP from the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University in China was conducted from January 1, 2012 to November 30, 2018. The primary outcome was prognosis, including in-hospital mortality, major thromboembolic events, or failure to achieve remission at discharge. We used the random forest method to identify the best set of predictors.Eighty-seven patients with TTP were identified, of whom 12 died during the treatment. The total number of patients within-hospital mortality, major thromboembolic events, and failure to achieve remission at discharge was 58. The machine learning method showed that the D-dimer level was the strongest predictor of the primary outcome. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis demonstrated that the sensitivity and specificity of the D-dimer level alone for identifying high-risk patients were 78% and 81%, respectively, with an optimum diagnostic cut-off value of 770 ng/mL. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.80, and the 95% confidence interval (CI) was 0.70 to 0.90.This study found that the D-dimer level exhibited a good predictive ability for prognosis in patients with TTP. These findings may aid in the development of new and intensive treatment strategies to achieve remission among high-risk patients. However, external validation is necessary to confirm the generalizability of our approach across populations and treatment practices.

[Clinical analysis of peri-operative gastrointestinal complications after endovascular and open repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm]

Objective: To investigate the etiology, treatment method and prevention of gastrointestinal complications(GCs) after endovascular and open repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Methods: The clinical data of 716 cases who were diagnosed as AAA and underwent endovascular(EVAR) or open repair (OR) from Department of Vascular Surgery, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University April 2009 to March 2017 were collected and analyzed retrospectively. There were 608 males (84.9%)and 108 females(15.1%), aging of 69.4 years (range: 52-86 years). There were 539 cases(75.3%) underwent EVAR and 177 cases(24.7%) underwent OR. The morbidity of GCs and mortality of GCs, such as acute pancreatitis, cholecystitis, ischemic colitis, intestinal obstruction and peptic ulcer, between EVAR and OR group were compared. The treatment of the GCs and the prognosis of the patients were reported. Results: The morbidity of GCs in EVAR and OR group were 4.6%(25/539)and 35.0%(62/177), respectively. There were 10 cases and 28 cases suffering from acute pancreatitis in EVAR and OR group, respectively; 4 cases and 6 cases suffering from cholecystitis in the two groups; 6 cases and 13 cases suffering from ischemic colitis in the two groups; 5 cases suffering from intestinal obstruction in OR group; 5 cases and 10 cases suffering from peptic ulcer in the two groups. Two patients died in EVAR group, and the peri-operative mortality was 0.37%, one died of ischemic colitis with acute myocardial infarction, the other died of ischemic colitis with septic shock. Six patients died in OR group, and the peri-operative mortality was 3.39%, two patients died of acute pancreatitis with intestinal necrosis, one patient died of cholangitis with peritonitis and septic shock, three patients died of ischemic colitis with acute renal failure or septicemia. Conclusions: The etiology of peri-operative GCs after AAA repair may include inferior mesenteric artery occlusion or ligation, pancreas injury, organ hypoperfusion and so on.

[Analysis of risk factors for cerebrovascular complications after carotid endarterectomy]

Objective: To evaluate the related risk factors of cerebrovascular complications after carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and to improve the efficacy of CEA in the treatment of ischemic stroke. Methods: The clinical data of 295 patients with atherosclerotic carotid artery stenosis who underwent CEA in the Department of Vascular Surgery, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University from January 2013 to March 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. Results: As the results of the single-factor analysis of logistics, severe lower limb artery stenosis (RR=5.667, P=0.017), systolic blood pressure before the carotid artery clamping (RR=6.659, P=0.010), diastolic blood pressure before the carotid artery clamping (RR=3.981, P=0.046), stump pressure (RR=5.359, P=0.021), diastolic blood pressure after surgery (RR=9.550, P=0.002), diastolic blood pressure of the first day after surgery (RR=7.932, P=0.005) were influencing factors of postoperative cerebrovascular complications after CEA. The results of multi-factor analysis of logistic regression indicated that diastolic blood pressure before the carotid artery clamping (RR=0.953, P=0.024) and stump pressure to basic systolic blood pressure index (SSI)>0.25 (RR=0.086, P=0.049) were independent risk factors for postoperative cerebrovascular complications after CEA. Conclusion: Systolic blood pressure before carotid artery clamping and SSI>0.25 are independent risk factors for postoperative cerebrovascular complications after CEA. Close follow-up and drug treatment for patients after CEA might be beneficial to reduce postoperative carotid artery restenosis.

Norepinephrine-Fe(III)-ATP Ternary Complex and Its Relevance to Parkinson's Disease

The aberrant autoxidation of norepinephrine (NE) in the presence of oxygen, which is accelerated by Fe(III), has been linked to the pathogenesis of the Parkinson's disease (PD). Adenosine triphosphate (ATP), as a neurotransmitter whose release can be stimulated by tissue damage and oxidative stress, is co-stored and often co-released with NE in presynaptic terminals. We have shown previously that ATP inhibits the iron-catalyzed dopamine oxidation, thereby decreasing the production of certain neurotoxins such as 6-hydroxydopamine. Whether ATP plays a similar role in Fe(III)-catalyzed NE oxidation and how it maintains the NE stability have not been investigated. Here, we studied the coordination in a ternary complex among NE, Fe(III), and ATP, and found that Fe(III) is coordinated as a octahedral center by NE and ATP. Voltammetry and mass spectrometry were employed to examine this ternary complex's modulation of the NE autoxidation. NE-Fe(III)-ATP plays a protective role to modulate the autoxidation and Fe(III)-catalyzed oxidation of NE. The ternary complex can be detected in the substantia nigra (SN), locus coeruleus (LC), and striatum regions of C57BL/6 wild-type mice. In contrast, the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced PD mouse brains displayed a significant decrease of the ternary complex in the SN region and an increase in the LC and striatum areas. We posit that the ternary complex is produced by noradrenergic neurons as a protective regulator against neuronal damage and oxidative stress, contributing to the lower vulnerability of LC neurons with respect to that of SN neurons.

Real-time parallel 3D multiple particle tracking with single molecule centrifugal force microscopy

Real-time tracking of multiple particles is key for quantitative analysis of dynamic biophysical processes and materials science via time-lapse microscopy image data, especially for single molecule biophysical techniques, such as magnetic tweezers and centrifugal force microscopy. However, real-time multiple particle tracking with high resolution is limited by the current imaging processes or tracking algorithms. Here, we demonstrate 1 nm resolution in three dimensions in real-time with a graphics-processing unit (GPU) based on a compute unified device architecture (CUDA) parallel computing framework instead of only a central processing unit (CPU). We also explore the trade-offs between processing speed and size of the utilized regions of interest and a maximum speedup of 137 is achieved with the GPU compared with the CPU. Moreover, we utilize this method with our recently self-built centrifugal force microscope (CFM) in experiments that track multiple DNA-tethered particles. Our approach paves the way for high-throughput single molecule techniques with high resolution and efficiency. LAY DESCRIPTION: Particles are widely used as probes in life sciences through their motions. In single molecule techniques such as optical tweezers and magnetic tweezers, microbeads are used to study intermolecular or intramolecular interactions via beads tracking. Also tracking multiple beads' motions could study cell-cell or cell-ECM interactions in traction force microscopy. Therefore, particle tracking is of key important during these researches. However, parallel 3D multiple particle tracking in real-time with high resolution is a challenge either due to the algorithm or the program. Here, we combine the performance of CPU and CUDA-based GPU to make a hybrid implementation for particle tracking. In this way, a speedup of 137 is obtained compared the program before only with CPU without loss of accuracy. Moreover, we improve and build a new centrifugal force microscope for multiple single molecule force spectroscopy research in parallel. Then we employed our program into centrifugal force microscope for DNA stretching study. Our results not only demonstrate the application of this program in single molecule techniques, also indicate the capability of multiple single molecule study with centrifugal force microscopy.

Effects of Rosuvastatin on Apolipoprotein J in Balloon-Injured Carotid Artery in Rats

Background

Restenosis after percutaneous coronary intervention in coronary heart disease remains an unsolved problem. Clusterin (CLU) (or Apolipoprotein [Apo] J) levels have been reported to be elevated during the progression of postangioplasty restenosis and atherosclerosis. However, its role in neointimal hyperplasia is still controversial.

Objective

To elucidate the role Apo J in neointimal hyperplasia in a rat carotid artery model in vivo with or without rosuvastatin administration.

Methods

Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups: the control group (n = 20), the model group (n = 20) and the statin intervention group (n = 32). The rats in the intervention group were given 10mg /kg dose of rosuvastatin. A 2F Fogarty catheter was introduced to induce vascular injury. Neointima formation was analyzed 1, 2, 3 and 4 weeks after balloon injury. The level of Apo J was measured by real-time PCR, immunohistochemistry and western blotting.

Results

Intimal/medial area ratio (intimal/medial, I/M) was increased after balloon-injury and reached the maximum value at 4weeks in the model group; I/M was slightly increased at 2 weeks and stopped increasing after rosuvastatin administration. The mRNA and protein levels of Apo J in carotid arteries were significantly upregulated after rosuvastatin administration as compared with the model group, and reached maximum values at 2 weeks, which was earlier than in the model group (3 weeks).

Conclusion

Apo J served as an acute phase reactant after balloon injury in rat carotid arteries. Rosuvastatin may reduce the neointima formation through up-regulation of Apo J. Our results suggest that Apo J exerts a protective role in the restenosis after balloon-injury in rats.

Elevated Interleukin-38 Level Associates with Clinical Response to Atorvastatin in Patients with Hyperlipidemia

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Hyperlipidemia is a risk factor for various cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. And it is tightly related to chronic inflammation. Interleukin-38 (IL-38) represents a new member of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Thus we studied the important role of IL-38 in hyperlipidemia development and treatment.

METHODS

The mRNA level of IL-38 in PBMCs (peripheral blood mononuclear cells) and serum IL-38 levels in hyperlipidemia patients and healthy controls were measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA). The hyperlipidemia patients were further divided into two groups (Sensitive and Resistant Group) according to their clinical response to Atorvastatin therapy. Finally, the effects of IL-38 on hyperlipidemia was evaluated in the mice model.

RESULTS

Data showed that the IL-38 mRNA and serum protein levels were higher in patients with hyperlipidemia compared with healthy controls. And the IL-38 mRNA and serum protein levels were higher in patients sensitive to Atorvastatin therapy than the resistant group. In vitro, IL-38 inhibited the production of IL-6, IL-1β and CRP in PBMCs of patients with hyperlipidemia. In the mice model of hyperlipidemia, IL-38 was also elevated during the hyperlipidemia development. Furthermore, the IL-38 over-expressed by adeno-associated virus significantly inhibited the hyperlipidemia development, inflammatory factor secretion and also the atherosclerosis process.

CONCLUSION

Thus our data showed that IL-38 might present protective effects on hyperlipidemia treatment.

Learning Domain-Invariant Subspace Using Domain Features and Independence Maximization

Domain adaptation algorithms are useful when the distributions of the training and the test data are different. In this paper, we focus on the problem of instrumental variation and time-varying drift in the field of sensors and measurement, which can be viewed as discrete and continuous distributional change in the feature space. We propose maximum independence domain adaptation (MIDA) and semi-supervised MIDA to address this problem. Domain features are first defined to describe the background information of a sample, such as the device label and acquisition time. Then, MIDA learns a subspace which has maximum independence with the domain features, so as to reduce the interdomain discrepancy in distributions. A feature augmentation strategy is also designed to project samples according to their backgrounds so as to improve the adaptation. The proposed algorithms are flexible and fast. Their effectiveness is verified by experiments on synthetic datasets and four real-world ones on sensors, measurement, and computer vision. They can greatly enhance the practicability of sensor systems, as well as extend the application scope of existing domain adaptation algorithms by uniformly handling different kinds of distributional change.

A Novel Medical E-Nose Signal Analysis System

It has been proven that certain biomarkers in people’s breath have a relationship with diseases and blood glucose levels (BGLs). As a result, it is possible to detect diseases and predict BGLs by analysis of breath samples captured by e-noses. In this paper, a novel optimized medical e-nose system specified for disease diagnosis and BGL prediction is proposed. A large-scale breath dataset has been collected using the proposed system. Experiments have been organized on the collected dataset and the experimental results have shown that the proposed system can well solve the problems of existing systems. The methods have effectively improved the classification accuracy.

Mediating effect of coping styles on the association between psychological capital and psychological distress among Chinese nurses: a cross-sectional study

WHAT IS KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT?: Studies show that psychological capital (PsyCap) is a protective factor against psychological distress, such as depressive symptoms. However, few have attempted to address the role of coping styles in the relationship between PsyCap and psychological distress. WHAT DOES THIS PAPER ADD TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: Our study found moderate levels of PsyCap among nurses in China. Among the subcategories of PsyCap, optimism and hope were most highly correlated with psychological distress. Psychological distress was positively associated with negative coping and negatively associated with positive coping. This study confirmed the partial mediating effect of coping styles in PsyCap and psychological distress among Chinese nurses. In other words, this study found direct and indirect effects of PsyCap on psychological distress mediated via coping styles. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE?: The significant mediating effect of negative and positive coping styles between PsyCap and psychological distress has implications for hospital administrators, especially nurse leaders. Effective strategies should be implemented to improve PsyCap and coping styles among Chinese nurses, and alleviate psychological distress. Optimism and hope should be emphasized in PsyCap investment. Different styles of coping are influenced and modified by teaching and experience. Therefore, it is essential that nurse managers organize educational and training programmes to provide nurses with relative coping knowledge and techniques, and improve their coping ability. Several studies suggest that coping styles are affected by social support. Thus, nurse managers should assist nurses with social support and enhance coping strategies to reduce psychological distress.

ABSTRACT

Introduction PsyCap includes four categories namely self-efficacy, hope, optimism and resilience. Research has demonstrated that PsyCap and coping styles affect current psychological distress. Nevertheless, few studies have explored the role of coping styles in PsyCap and psychological distress. Aim This study investigated the role of coping styles as a mediator in PsyCap and psychological distress among Chinese nurses. Methods Participants included 538 nurses who completed self-report questionnaires assessing PsyCap, coping styles and psychological distress. Linear regression analyses were used to explore the role of coping styles. Results PsyCap, coping styles and psychological distress were significantly correlated. Among the subcategories of PsyCap, optimism and hope were most highly correlated with psychological distress. Coping styles is a partial mediator of PsyCap and psychological distress. Implications for mental health nursing The significant role of negative and positive coping styles in PsyCap and psychological distress has implications for hospital administrators, especially nurse leaders. Effective strategies should be implemented to improve PsyCap and coping styles among Chinese nurses, to alleviate psychological distress. Optimism and hope should be the focus of the improvement. Different styles of coping are developed from education and experience. Therefore, it is necessary for nurse managers to organize educational and training programmes to improve coping skills among nurses. Studies suggest that coping styles are affected by social support. Thus, nurse managers should also assist nurses with social support and enhance coping strategies to reduce psychological distress.

High uric acid level predicts left atrial thrombus or spontaneous echo contrast detected by transesophageal echocardiography: Meta-analysis and systematic review

Background

Recent observational studies have suggested that the patients with hyperuricemia have a higher risk of having left atrial thrombus (LATH) or left atrial spontaneous echo contrast (LASEC) by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), while the ultimate predictive value of a high uric acid (UA) level on LATH/LASEC remained obscure.

Methods

We searched the PubMed and Cochrane clinical trials databases up to July 2015. Following screening the 369 initially identified studies, we analyzed six observational studies with 2381 patients.

Results

The meta-analysis of these studies showed that an elevated serum UA level was associated with a higher likelihood of LATH/LASEC (OR = 1.59, 95%CI 1.13–2.23, P = 0.008), while significant differences exist among individual trials (P < 0.00001 and I² = 85%). Sensitivity analysis failed to find any heterogeneity.

Conclusion

An elevated UA level was associated with a higher risk of detecting a left atrial abnormality represented by LATH/LASEC.

Variability in lipid profile among patients presented with acute myocardial infarction, unstable angina and stable angina pectoris

OBJECTIVE

Despite the amply evidence and guidelines in treating coronary artery disease (CAD) with lipid-lowering therapy, physicians still have concerns in treating acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients who have the low serum lipid level. We explored the adequacy of lipid-lowering therapy in treating AMI patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Over 3000 CAD lipid profile data were collected, their data were divided into 3 groups (AMI; stable angina pectoris (SAP) and unstable angina pectoris (UAP) group) based their clinical characteristics. Statistical analyses were performed to compare their baseline lipid levels and clinical feature.

RESULTS

The total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) level in AMI patients were the lowest, followed by UAP patient group and SAP patient group. There were significant differences in white blood count (WBC) and ejection fraction (EF) between 3 groups. A good correlation was confirmed between EF% and the lipid parameters of TC, LDL-c, HDL-c, non-HDL-c. WBC did not correlate with the lipid except HDL-c. AMI is an acute inflammatory reaction that is accompanied with the change of lipid level.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the level of TC, LDL-c and HDL-c are lower in AMI, but it is related with acute inflammatory reaction during the rupture of atherosclerotic plaques. Lipid-lowering therapy should not be delayed in treating AMI patients with lower lipid level.

[Association between plasma adiponectin and small, dense low density lipoprotein in patients with coronary artery disease]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the association between adiponectin and small dense low-density lipoprotein (sLDL-c) in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients. Furthermore, we sought to determine the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) rs1501299 (+276G/T), rs266729 (-11365C/G) and the incidence of CAD.

METHODS

Consecutive subjects with chest discomfort were examined by coronary angiography and divided into non-CAD [n = 250, 147 male, mean age (60.26 ± 7.52) years] and CAD [n = 267, 153 male, mean age (60.79 ± 9.63) years] groups. Blood samples were collected from all participants following an overnight fasting for at least 12 hours. Plasma adiponectin levels were measured by competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The serum levels of sLDL-C and oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) were determined by ELISA. Genotypes in rs1501299 and rs266729 of the adiponectin were determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

RESULTS

1. The adiponectin levels were significantly lower [(306.17 ± 74.52) mg/L vs. (321.78 ± 86.28) mg/L], whereas sLDL-C and ox-LDL levels were significantly higher [(276.30 ± 45.55) ng/L vs. (249.00 ± 32.02) ng/L and (545.06 ± 115.46) µg/L vs. (497.74 ± 106.09) µg/L, P < 0.05] in CAD group than non-CAD group. 2. Adiponectin level was negatively associated with sLDL-C, whereas sLDL-C positively correlated with ox-LDL in all subjects. 3. Genotype distribution and allele frequencies of rs1501299 and rs266729 were similar between CAD and non-CAD subjects and not related to the serum levels of adiponectin, sLDL-C and ox-LDL.

CONCLUSIONS

Reduced adiponectin and increased sLDL-C were independent risk factors for coronary artery disease. Genetic polymorphisms in rs1501299 and rs266729 were not linked with coronary artery disease.

[Association between plasma adiponectin level and in-stent restenosis after coronary stenting]

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the present study was to identify the relationship between the plasma level of adiponectin and in-stent restenosis of patients with coronary heart disease after coronary stenting.

METHOD

The study population comprised 119 individuals (92 men) who underwent stent implantation, including 65 subjects without in-stent restenosis (group A) and 54 patients with in-stent restenosis (group B). The level of plasma adiponectin was measured using ELISA. Coronary angiography was performed immediately before and after implanting stent and 9 - 12 months later.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics including drug use after PCI were similar between the groups. The rate of implanting bare metal stent is 8 (12.31%) and 6 (11.11%), TAXUS drug-eluting stent is 11 (16.92%) and 10 (18.52%) and CYPHER drug-eluting stent is 46 (70.77%) and 38 (70.37%) respectively (all P > 0.05). Plasma level of adiponectin in patient of group A was significantly higher than that in group B [(15.16 +/- 5.02) mg/L vs. (10.01 +/- 4.93) mg/L, P < 0.05]. The quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) showed that lesion length was similar between groups [(15.82 +/- 6.67) mm vs. (13.40 +/- 4.20) mm, P > 0.05], minimum lumen diameter (MLD) and stenosis rate were also similar before and after implanting stent (P > 0.05) and acute gain was (1.48 +/- 0.65) mm vs. (1.19 +/- 0.37) mm (P > 0.05). MLD was higher in group A than that in group B [(2.55 +/- 0.53) mm vs. (0.57 +/- 0.60) mm, P < 0.01] at 9 - 12 months follow up. Restenosis rate [(24.2 +/- 11.2)% vs.(81.0 +/- 19.1)%, P < 0.01] and late lumen loss [(0.50 +/- 0.34) mm vs. (1.60 +/- 0.54) mm, P < 0.01] were lower in group A than in group B.

CONCLUSIONS

The lower plasma adiponectin level might be associated with in-stent restenosis after coronary stenting.

Bifidobacterium longum as a delivery system of TRAIL and endostatin cooperates with chemotherapeutic drugs to inhibit hypoxic tumor growth

In our previous study, we have shown that vector pBV22210 containing a chloramphenicol resistance and a cryptic plasmid pMB1 from Bifidobacterium longum strain could stably replicate and did not significantly affect the biological characteristics of B. longum. In this study, B. longum was transfected by electroporation with pBV22210 encoding the extracellular domain of TRAIL (B. longum-pBV22210-TRAIL) and its carbohydrate fermentation and growth curve were determined, and its location and inhibitory effect on tumor xenografts in mice were also examined. The results further proved that gene transfection did not change the main biochemical characteristics of B. longum. The results also showed that B. longum-pBV22210-TRAIL resulted in selective location in tumors and exhibited a definite antitumor effect on S180 osteosarcoma. In addition, when a low dosage of Adriamycin (5 mg kg(-1)) or B. longum-pBV22210-endostatin was combined, the antitumor effect was significantly enhanced. The successful inhibition of S180 tumor growth suggested a stable vector in B. longum for transporting anticancer genes combined with low-dose chemotherapeutic drugs or other target genes is a promising approach in cancer gene therapy.

Meat quality parameters of descendants by grading hybridization of Boer goat and Guanzhong Dairy goat

Chemical composition, cholesterol levels, fatty acid profile, meat taste, and quality parameters were evaluated in 48 buck kids from goats of the Guanzhong Dairy breed (Group G) and their crosses (Group F1: 1/2 Boermale symbolx1/2 Guanzhong Dairyfemale symbol; Group F2: 3/4 Boermale symbolx1/4 Guanzhong Dairyfemale symbol; Group F3: 7/8 Boermale symbolx1/8 Guanzhong Dairyfemale symbol) at different ages of slaughter (6, 8 and 10 months). Results indicated that grading hybridization (P<0.05) affected meat nutritive value. The muscle of hybrid goats had lower crude fat and cholesterol, higher crude protein, and greater proportion of C18:2 and C18:3 than that of Group G at each age. Group F1 goats had better (P<0.05) desirable fatty acid (DFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) to saturated fatty acid (SFA) ratios and greater (C18:0+C18:1/C16:0) ratios (P<0.01) than those of the other genotypes. Furthermore, the muscles of hybrid goats were tenderer and juicier compared to Group G. In all four groups, cholesterol levels increased (P<0.01), muscle color became redder (P<0.05) and tenderness decreased (P<0.05) with increasing age. The low level of lipids and cholesterol, good meat quality, and the higher ratio of unsaturated to SFA in Group F1 indicate better quality for human consumption.

Effects of mild heat treatment on microbial growth and product quality of packaged fresh-cut table grapes

The changes in packaged fresh-cut grape quality and microbial growth as affected by mild heat treatments and the retention of grape cap stems during 5 degrees C storage were evaluated. Each individual grape was either manually pulled off (stemless) from the stems, or cut (cut stem) to allow for a 1- to 2-mm cap stem remaining on the berry. The samples were sanitized in 100 mg/L chlorine solution for 1 min, followed by a mild heat treatment in a water bath (45 degrees C, 8 min) or an oven (55 degrees C, 5 min). After cooling, the berries were packaged in rigid trays sealed with a gas permeable film and stored at 5 degrees C. Product quality and decay rate were evaluated periodically during storage. The results indicate that in the package headspace for hot water treatment of stemless grapes, partial pressures of O(2) declined significantly (P < 0.05) less and C(2)H(4) increased significantly (P < 0.001) less than for the control and hot air treatment. Stem removal and heat treatment had significant (P < 0.05) effects on the decay rate of grapes during storage. Hot water treatment maintained a significantly lower decay rate than the control and hot air treatment throughout the entire storage. Color and texture were not significantly (P > 0.05) affected by either heat treatment or stem removal. Grapes that retained the cap stems and received hot water treatment had the lowest decay rate and lowest microbial growth with the absence of any negative impact on grape color, texture, and flavor.

[Association of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and platelet membrane glycoprotein VI polymorphisms with acute coronary syndrome]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate serum level and gene polymorphisms of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), and platelet glycoprotein VI (GPVI) in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

METHODS

In a prospective study of 179 patients with documented ACS and 164 controls, we measured baseline serum MMP-9 levels using ELISA and determined the MMP-9/C-1562T and MMP-9/G5564A genotypes using PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Fib serum level was measured by Clauss assay. We also analyzed the Fib/Bbeta-148C/T and GPVI/T13254C polymorphisms.

RESULTS

Serum levels of MMP-9 and Fib in ACS patients were significantly higher than in controls (P < 0.001), and serum level of Fib in the acute myocardial infarction group was higher than in patients with unstable angina (P < 0.05). No significant difference between ACS patients and controls was found in frequencies of MMP-9/C-1562T, MMP-9/G5564A, Fib/Bbeta-148C/T, and GPVI/T13254C genotypes and alleles (P > 0.05). The T allele of the Fib/Bbeta-148T polymorphism was associated with increased plasma Fib level (P < 0.05). There was a strong positive correlation between serum level of MMP-9 and Fib (r = 0.289, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Serum levels of MMP-9 and Fib were independent risk factors of ACS. There was an obvious relationship between the Bbeta-148C/T mutation and high Fib level. No significant difference between controls and ACS patients was found in the frequencies of MMP-9 C-1562T and G5564A, Fib Bbeta-148C/T and GPVI T13254C genotypes and alleles (P > 0.05).

Refractive indices of water and ice in the 0.65- to 2.5-µm spectral range

New accurate values of the imaginary part, k, of the refractive index of water at T = 22 °C, supercooled water at T = -8 °C and polycrystalline ice at T = -25 °C are reported. The k spectrum for water in the spectral region 0.65-2.5 µm is found to be in excellent agreement with those of previous studies. The k values for polycrystalline ice in the 1.44-2.50-µm region eliminate the large uncertainties existing among previously published conflicting sets of data. The imaginary part of refractive index of supercooled water shows a systematic shift of absorption peaks toward the longer wavelengths compared with that of water at warmer temperatures.