Tunable rigidity of PLGA shell-lipid core nanoparticles for enhanced pulmonary siRNA delivery in 2D and 3D lung cancer cell models

Faced with the threat of lung cancer-related deaths worldwide, small interfering RNA (siRNA) can silence tumor related messenger RNA (mRNA) to tackle the issue of drug resistance with enhanced anti-tumor effects. However, how to increase lung tumor targeting and penetration with enhanced gene silencing are the issues to be addressed. Thus, the objective of this study is to explore the feasibility of designing non-viral siRNA vectors for enhanced lung tumor therapy via inhalation. Here, shell-core based polymer-lipid hybrid nanoparticles (HNPs) were prepared via microfluidics by coating PLGA on siRNA-loaded cationic liposomes (Lipoplexes). Transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy study demonstrated that HNP consists of a PLGA shell and a lipid core. Atomic force microscopy study indicated that the rigidity of HNPs could be well tuned by changing thickness of the PLGA shell. The designed HNPs were muco-inert with increased stability in mucus and BALF, good safety, enhanced mucus penetration and cellular uptake. Crucially, HNP1 with the thinnest PLGA shell exhibited superior transfection efficiency (84.83%) in A549 cells, which was comparable to that of lipoplexes and Lipofectamine 2000, and its tumor permeability was 1.88 times that of lipoplexes in A549-3T3 tumor spheroids. After internalization of the HNPs, not only endosomal escape but also lysosomal exocytosis was observed. The transfection efficiency of HNP1 (39.33%) was 2.26 times that of lipoplexes in A549-3T3 tumor spheroids. Moreover, HNPs exhibited excellent stability during nebulization via soft mist inhaler. In conclusion, our study reveals the great potential of HNP1 in siRNA delivery for lung cancer therapy via inhalation.

Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography: Revolutionizing Clinical Diagnostics and Treatment in Central Nervous System Disease

Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), as a new generation of non-invasive and efficient fundus imaging technology, can provide non-invasive assessment of vascular lesions in the retina and choroid. In terms of anatomy and development, the retina is referred to as an extension of the central nervous system (CNS). CNS diseases are closely related to changes in fundus structure and blood vessels, and direct visualization of fundus structure and blood vessels provides an effective "window" for CNS research. This has important practical significance for identifying the characteristic changes of various CNS diseases on OCTA in the future, and plays a key role in promoting early screening, diagnosis, and monitoring of disease progression in CNS diseases. This article reviews relevant fundus studies by comparing and summarizing the unique advantages and existing limitations of OCTA in various CNS disease patients, in order to demonstrate the clinical significance of OCTA in the diagnosis and treatment of CNS diseases.

[Changes of HER2 low expression status in primary and recurrent/metastatic breast cancer]

Objective: To investigate the evolution and clinical significance of HER2 low expression status in HER2 negative patients in primary and recurrent/metastatic breast cancers. Methods: The data and archived sections of 259 breast cancer patients with recurrence/metastasis and HER2-negative primary foci were collected from January 2015 to January 2022 at the Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, and the HER2 status of primary and recurrence/metastasis foci was determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC), among which IHC 2+patients were subject to fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The HER2 status was classified as HER2-0 group; patients with IHC 1+, IHC 2+and no FISH amplification were classified as HER2 low expression group; and patients with IHC 3+, IHC 2+and FISH amplified were classified as HER2-positive group. The changes of HER2 status in patients with HER2 low expression in primary versus recurrent/metastatic breast cancer foci were compared, and their clinicopathologic characteristics and prognosis were analyzed. Results: The overall concordance rate between primary and recurrent/metastatic HER2 status in breast cancer was 60.6% (157/259, κ=0.178). A total of 102 patients (102/259, 39.4%) had inconsistent primary and recurrent/metastatic HER2 status; 37 patients (37/259, 14.3%) had HER2-0 at the primary foci and HER2-low expression at the recurrent/metastatic; and 56 patients (56/259, 21.6%) had HER2-low expression in the primary foci and HER2-0 in the recurrent/metastatic. The recurrent/metastatic foci became low-expressing compared with the recurrent/metastatic foci which remained HER2-0 patients, with longer overall survival time, higher ER and PR positivity, lower Ki-67 positivity index, and lower tumor histological grade; all with statistically significant differences (all P<0.05). In the primary HER2-low group, patients with recurrent/metastatic foci became HER2-0 while those with recurrent/metastatic foci remained low expression; there were no statistically significant differences in clinicopathological features and overall survival time (all P>0.05). Conclusions: Unstable HER2 status in patients with HER2-0 and low expression in primary versus recurrent/metastatic breast cancer foci, and HER2-0 in the primary foci but low HER2 expression status in recurrence/metastasis is associated with favourable prognosis, and testing HER2 status in recurrence/metastasis can provide more treatment options for such patients.

Research Progress on the GIP/GLP-1 Receptor Coagonist Tirzepatide, a Rising Star in Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic progressive metabolic disease that has become a growing health problem worldwide, and the dangers of hyperglycemia and its chronic complications have long been considered a goal of diabetes treatment. In recent years, tirzepatide has become the first dual GIP/GLP-1R agonist approved for the treatment of diabetes mellitus in the United States as a new hypoglycemic medicine. Its hypoglycaemic and weight loss effects have been demonstrated in several large clinical trials, and there is also evidence that it has great potential for cardiovascular protection. In addition, the very concept of synthetic peptides opens up many unknown possibilities for tirzepatide. Ongoing trials (NCT04166773) and evidence suggest that it appears to be a promising drug in the areas of NAFLD, renal, and neuroprotection. Based on preclinical studies and clinical trials, the aim of this article is to discuss the latest clinical developments in tirzepatide, to focus on its differences with other incretin therapies, and to suggest future possibilities and mechanisms of tirzepatide therapy.

Multi-Omics Analysis of Transcriptomic and Metabolomics Profiles Reveal the Molecular Regulatory Network of Marbling in Early Castrated Holstein Steers

The intramuscular fat (IMF), or so-called marbling, is known as potential determinant of the high quality beef in China, Korea, and Japan. Of the methods that affect IMF content in cattle, castration is markedly regarded as an effective and economical way to improve the deposition of IMF but with little attention to its multi-omics in early-castrated cattle. The aim of this study was to investigate the liver transcriptome and metabolome of early-castrated Holstein cattle and conduct a comprehensive analysis of two omics associated with the IMF deposition using transcriptomics and untargeted metabolomics under different treatments: non−castrated and slaughtered at 16 months of age (GL16), castrated at birth and slaughtered at 16 months of age (YL16), and castrated at birth and slaughtered at 26 months of age (YL26). The untargeted metabolome was analyzed using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The transcriptome of the hepatic genes was analyzed to identify marbling-related genes. Using untargeted metabolomics, the main altered metabolic pathways in the liver of cattle, including those for lipid and amino acid metabolism, were detected in the YL16 group relative to the GL16 and YL26 groups. Significant increases in the presence of betaine, alanine, and glycerol 3-phosphate were observed in the YL16 group (p < 0.05), which might have contributed to the improved beef-marbling production. Compared to the GL16 and YL26 groups, significant increases in the presence of glutathione, acetylcarnitine, and riboflavin but decreases in diethanolamine and 2-hydroxyglutarate were identified in YL16 group (p < 0.05), which might have been beneficial to the beef’s enhanced functional quality. The gene expressions of GLI1 and NUF2 were downregulated and that of CYP3A4 was upregulated in the YL16 group; these results were strongly correlated with the alanine, betaine, and leucine, respectively, in the liver of the cattle. In conclusion, implementation of early castration modified the hepatic metabolites and the related biological pathways by regulating the relevant gene expressions, which could represent a better rearing method for production of high marbled and healthier beef products.

Carriage prevalence of Neisseria meningitidis in China, 2005-2022: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction

Neisseria meningitidis (Nm) is a major cause of meningitis and septicemia. Most people are infected with latent infections or are carriers. We aimed to estimate the carriage prevalence of Nm in China.

Methods

We did a systematic review of published work to assess the prevalence of meningococcal carriage in China. The quality assessment was conducted by the risk of bias tool according to Damian Hoy’s study. We estimated pooled proportions of carriage and its 95% confidence interval (95% CI) using fixed effect model for studies with low heterogeneity and random effect model for studies with moderate or high heterogeneity. Subgroup analyses were also conducted by region and age group.

Results

In total, 115 studies were included. The quality evaluation grades of all included documents were medium or high grade. The weighted proportion of carriage was 2.86% (95% CI: 2.25–3.47%, I²: 97.7%, p = 0). The carriage prevalence of Nm varied between provinces, ranged from 0.00% (95% CI: 0.00–0.66%) to 15.50% (95% CI: 14.01–16.99%). Persons aged 15 years and older had the highest carriage 4.38% (95% CI: 3.15–5.62%, I2: 95.4%, p < 0.0001), and children under 6 years of age had the lowest carriage 1.01% (95% CI: 0.59–1.43%, I2: 74.4%, p < 0.0001). In positive carriers, serogroup B (41.62%, 95% CI: 35.25–48.00%, I²: 98.6%, p = 0) took up the highest proportion, and serogroup X (0.02%, 95% CI: 0.00–0.09%, I²: 0.00%, p = 1) accounted for the lowest proportion.

Conclusion

The meningococcal carriage in China was estimated low and varied by region and age group. Understanding the epidemiology and transmission dynamics of meningococcal infection in insidious spreaders is essential for optimizing the meningococcal immunization strategies of the country.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-022-07586-x.

Prevalence of Neisseria meningitidis serogroups in invasive meningococcal disease in China, 2010 - 2020: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) caused by Neisseria meningitidis (Nm) continues to be a global public health concern. Understanding the prevalence of Nm serogroups in IMD is critical for developing strategies for meningococcal vaccination. We used the keywords “cerebrospinal meningitis”, “meningococcal”, “Neisseria meningitidis’’, “meningococcal meningitis”, “serogroup’’ and “China’’ to search five databases, including PubMed, CNKI, CBM (Chinese BioMedical Literature Database), WanFang and VIP from 2010 to 2020. The age distributions, proportions of Nm serogroups and serogroup changes in IMD were analyzed. A total of 14 studies were included according to PRISMA guidelines. In China, from 2010 to 2020, the highest proportion of Nm in IMD was NmC, with 49.7% (95% CI: 35.8%–63.5%), followed by NmB with 30.2% (95%CI:17.3%–43.0%) and NmW with 23.8% (95%CI: 7.0–40.7%). Before 2014, NmC was the major circulating serogroup, with 59.6% (95% CI: 43.8%-75.4%), followed by NmW with 24.4% (95% CI: 5.9%–42.9%). After 2015, IMD cases caused by NmB were increasing, the proportion of NmB reached to 52.4% (95% CI: 31.8%–73.1%). The age groups of children from 0 to 5 years and from 6 to 10 years represented, respectively, 29.6% (95% CI: 16.8%–42.4%) and 28.9% (95% CI: 12.1%–45.8%) of all IMD cases were reported. In China, NmB, NmC and NmW were the major serogroups causing IMD between 2010 and 2020. Since 2015, the proportion of NmB increased rapidly. The current serogroup distribution in China highlights the need of replacing the meningococcal polysaccharide vaccines that are being used in the National Immunization Program with more appropriate vaccines.

Effect of menopausal symptom treatment options on palpitations: a systematic review

This systematic review provides an overview of the effects of menopausal symptom treatment options on palpitations, defined as feelings of missed or exaggerated heart beats, reported by perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. Guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, searches were conducted in PubMed, CINAHL and PsycINFO to identify articles meeting pre-specified inclusion criteria. Of 670 unique articles identified, 37 were included in the review. Treatments included drug therapies and non-drug therapies. Palpitations were studied as an outcome in 89% of articles and as an adverse effect in 11%. Articles provided mostly level II/III evidence due to their design and/or small sample sizes. Based on available evidence, no therapies can be fully recommended for clinical practice. Only some hormonal agents (e.g. estradiol) can be recommended with caution based on some positive evidence for reducing palpitation prevalence or severity. However, other drug therapies (e.g. moxonidine, atenolol), dietary supplementary treatments (e.g. isoflavones, Rheum rhaponticum, sage), cognitive-behavioral intervention and auricular acupressure cannot be recommended given the existing evidence. Additional well-designed randomized controlled treatment trials focusing on palpitations during the menopause transition as an inclusion criteria and outcome are needed to advance the field.

[Genetic characteristics of hantavirus from rodents in port area of Ningde , Fujian province in the summer of 2020]

Objective: To explore the genetic characteristics and evolution of hantavirus carried by rodents in port area of Ningde in Fujian province in the summer of 2020. Methods: Rodents were captured in the port area of Ningde, the RNA was extracted from rodent lung tissues and detected by using specific kit. The positive samples were used for whole-genome sequencing of the virus. Bioinformatics software was used for the analysis on the similarity and genetic variation of the sequences. Results: A total of 112 rodents were captured, including 5 Rattus norvegicus and 2 Rattus flavipectus, the positive rate of hantavirus was 6.25% (7/112). By virus gene sequencing, two hantavirus complete genome sequences were obtained (named as FJ35 and FJ36, GenBank accession numbers: MW449188-MW449193). The genetic analysis results showed that the hantavirus detected in positive samples were SEOV and shared 99% nucleotide similarity with hantavirus strains LZSF21 and JX20140581 isolated from Shandong province. Phylogenetic analysis using the maximum likelihood method showed that the hantavirus detected in positive samples belonged to S3 subtype, sharing the same subtype with hantavirus strains Z37 from Zhejiang province, LZSF21 from Shandong province, and zy27 and Gongzhuling 415 from northeastern China. Compared with FJ372, the amino acid variation of N259S was observed at sites 251-264 of nucleoprotein, which might be related to antigenicity. Another variation of Q81R was observed in glycoprotein compared with SEOV 80-39 segment of coded amino acid of international reference strain, which might also cause the change in antigenicity. Conclusion: The high positive rate of hantavirus in rodents in the port area of Ningde- would increase the risk of natural human infection and epidemic in local area. The hantavirus positive rodents in this focus might be from an endemic area in Shandong. It is necessary to strengthen the imported rodent control in the port area of Ningde. The virus detected in 2 positive samples belonged to SEOV subtype Ⅲ and shared high homologies of nucleotides and amino acid sequences with the hantavirus strains in surrounding area. However, some slight variations occurred in glycoprotein and nucleoprotein amino acid sequences, which might cause changes in its antigeniity.

Comparisons of adipogenesis- and lipid metabolism-related gene expression levels in muscle, adipose tissue and liver from Wagyu-cross and Holstein steers

The intramuscular fat (IMF) content and fatty acid composition are important meat quality traits that are mostly affected by the cattle breed. Muscle, adipose tissue and liver are important organs involved in the development of intramuscular adipose tissue. Thus, we hypothesized that there were marked differences in the adipogenesis and lipid metabolism of these tissues between Wagyu-cross and Holstein steers during the finishing phases. To test this hypothesis, we analyzed the expression levels of adipogenesis- and lipid metabolism-related genes in longissimus muscle (LM), subcutaneous fat (SCF) and liver from Wagyu-cross and Holstein steers at 26 months of age. The IMF content and fatty acid profile of LM were determined. Wagyu-cross steers had a higher IMF content and MUFA percentages in the LM than Holstein steers (P<0.05). The relative expression of FGF2, COL1A1, SREBP1c, SCD1, GRP78 and LEP was greater in the LM of Wagyu-cross steers than in Holstein steers (P<0.05). In contrast, Holstein steer SCF had higher (P<0.05) mRNA expression levels of FABP4 and ADIPOQ than Wagyu-cross steers. In the liver, the expression of SREBP1c and GRP78 in Wagyu-cross steers was significantly higher than that in Holstein steers (P<0.05). The results demonstrate that both intramuscular adipogenesis and fibrogenesis are enhanced in Wagyu-cross steers compared with Holstein steers during the finishing phase and that IMF deposition is positively correlated with the maturity of SCF and hepatic lipid accumulation in Wagyu-cross steers.

Polymorphisms rs763110 in FASL is linked to hepatitis C virus infection among high-risk populations

BACKGROUND

The Fas cell surface death receptor (FAS) and Fas ligand (FASL) can participate in the apoptosis of immune cells and target cells infected with a virus through the FAS-FASL signalling pathway. The decoy receptor 3 (DCR3) can competitively inhibit the binding of FAS to FASL. Our aim is to investigate the effect of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in FAS, FASL and DCR3 on hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.

METHODS

Four SNPs (rs763110 in FASL, rs1324551 and rs2234767 in FAS and rs2257440 in DCR3) were genotyped in 1495 controls free of HCV, 522 individuals with spontaneous HCV clearance and 732 patients with hepatitis C virus infection. The RegulomeDB database and RNAfold web servers were used to explore potential biological functions of SNPs.

RESULTS

FASL rs763110 was associated with susceptibility to HCV infection, and not to CHC. The odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of HCV infection in high-risk populations carrying FASL rs763110-TT was 1.82 (1.36-2.51, P < 0.001) compared to that of CC genotypes and 1.93 (1.43-2.60, P < 0.001) higher than that of CC + CT genotypes. Based on computer simulation, FASL rs763110-T may affect the transcription of mRNA by affecting the binding of a transcription factor, leading to structural changes in mRNA.

CONCLUSION

The genetic variant in FASL is linked with HCV infection, but not to spontaneous HCV clearance.

[Long-term efficacy analysis of laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty for high and middle imperforate anus]

Objective: To explore the long-term efficacy of laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty and conventional anorectoplasty in the treatment of children with high and middle anal atresia. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was used. Inclusion criteria: (1) children with high and middle anal atresia; (2) complicated with rectourethral or rectovesical fistula; (3) complete follow-up data. Exclusion criteria: (1) complicated with 21-trisomy; (2) cerebral palsy and other mentaldisabilities; (3) Currarino syndrome; (4) FG syndrome. Clinical data of 88 patients with middle and high anal atresia, who complicated with rectourethral fistula or rectovesical fistula, and underwent anoplasty at Department of Pediatric Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from January 2009 to June 2014 were enrolled in the study and analyzed. There were 24 cases with middle atresia and 64 cases with high atresia. All the cases were divided into 2 groups based on the operative method: laparoscopic group (laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty, 49 cases), pena group (posterior sagittal anorectoplasty, 39 cases). The demographic features of two groups were comparable. There were no statistically significant differences in gender, age, body mass, classification of anomaly types and sacral ratio (all P>0.05). Student t test and Chi square tests were used to compare the surgical conditions (operative time, postoperative hospital stay and complications), anal function (Kelly score), constipation (Krickenbeck constipation score) and anorectal pressure. Results: Children of both groups all completed operation ssuccessfully. There were no statistically significant differences between laparoscopic group and pena group in the operative time [(120±31) minutes vs. (112±23) minutes, t=1.343, P=0.091] and postoperative hospital stay [(7.1±2.3) days vs. (10.7±3.3) days, t=6.021, P=1.000]. Complications were more common in the pena group [16.3% (8/49) vs. 35.9% (14/39), χ(2)=4.436, P=0.035]. The main complications in laparoscopic group were anal prolapse (8.2%, 4/49) and anal stenosis (6.2%, 3/49), while in pena group were anal stenosis (12.8%, 5/39) and perioperative perianal skin erosion (10.3%, 4/39). As for the anal function, the degree of feces, defecation control and sphincter contractility, the single scoring differences of Kelly scoring system were not statistically significant between the two groups, but the proportion of good function in the laparoscopic group was higher than that in the pena group [67.3% (8/49) vs. 38.5% (15/39), χ(2)=7.308, P=0.007]. Constipation occurred in 6 (12.2%) patients in the laparoscopic group, of whom 5 were improved by diet regulation and 1 required laxatives, while 9 (23.1%) patients developed constipation in the pena group, of whom 4 were improved by diet regulation and 5 required long-term laxatives. The difference of constipation ratio was not statistically significant (χ(2)=1.802, P=0.180). There were no cases of Krickenbeck constipation grade 3. Compared to the pena group, the laparoscopic group had higher anal resting pressure [(33.35±9.69) mmHg vs. (27.68±10.74) mmHg, t=2.599, P=0.011], higher dilating pressure [(9.00±5.61) mmHg vs.(6.51±3.24) mmHg, t=2.462, P=0.016], higher maximal squeeze pressure [(65.80±17.23) mmHg vs. (56.74±18.93) mmHg, t=2.389, P=0.019] and longer maximal contraction time [(21.16±5.02) seconds vs. (18.44±7.24) seconds, t=2.079, P=0.041]. The rectal resting pressure [(5.36±3.00) mmHg vs. (4.61±3.93) mmHg, t=1.015, P=0.312] was not statistically significantly different. Conclusions: Compared with posterior sagittal anorectoplasty, laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty in the treatment of high and middle anal atresia has better long-term efficacy with less perioperative complications.

[Study of tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily 1B gene polymorphism in relation to the outcomes of HCV infection]

Objective: To investigate the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily 1B gene (TNFRSF1B) polymorphism in relation to the outcomes of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Methods: One thousand six hundred and forty-five cases without HCV infection, 545 cases with HCV clearance, and 783 cases with chronic HCV infection were enrolled. TaqMan probe method was used to investigate genotype rs1061622 (T > G) and rs1061624 (G > A). Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) sites were genotyped and haplotypes were constructed to evaluate their relation with the outcome of HCV infection. Results: Logistic regression analysis showed that there was no relation to the two SNPs with HCV infection susceptibility and chronicity (P > 0.05). Haplotype analysis showed that carrier TA had an increased susceptibility to HCV infection [adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 1.15, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01 to 1.30, P = 0.038)]. Carrier TA and GG haplotypes were conducive to chronic HCV infection (adjusted OR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.08 to 1.53, P = 0.006; OR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.66, P = 0.026). Conclusion: The combinational effects of rs1061622 and rs1061624 in TNFRSF1B gene may increase the risk of HCV chronicity and infection.

[Association between TNFRSF11A and TNFRSF11B gene polymorphisms and the outcome of hepatitis C virus infection]

Objective: To explore the relationship between the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily members 11A (TNFRSF11A) and 11B (TNFRSF11B) gene polymorphisms and the outcome of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Methods: In this case-control study, 749 cases of persistent HCV infection, 494 cases of spontaneous clearance and 1 486 control subjects were included from 2008 to 2016. TaqMan-MGB probe method was used to detect the genotype of TNFRSF11A rs1805034 and TNFRSF11B rs2073617. The genotypes distribution of the two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) were analyzed in different populations. Results: Co-dominant model showed that individuals carrying the rs2073617 CC genotype were prone to have chronic HCV infection, compared with individuals carrying the rs2073617 TT genotype (OR=1.517, 95%CI: 1.055-2.181, P=0.024). Recessive model results showed that individuals carrying rs2073617 CC genotype were more likely to develop chronic HCV infection compared with individuals carrying rs2073617 TT or TC genotype (OR=1.435, 95%CI: 1.033-1.996, P=0.032). Additive model showed that the risk for chronic HCV infection increased with the increase of the number of rs2073617 C alleles (OR=1.204, 95%CI: 1.013-1.431, P=0.035). Conclusion: The genetic polymorphism of TNFRSF11B rs2073617 might be related with the chronicity of HCV infection.

Body fat changes in HIV patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART): a longitudinal DEXA study

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to quantitatively evaluate body fat composition in a group of HIV patients treated with Highly Active Anti-retroviral Therapy (HAART) to ascertain both fat loss and fat distribution changes and to identify possible therapeutic and host related associated risk factors.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 180 patients with available total body DEXA scan were assigned to a) Group 1, with clinically evident body fat changes, (BFC) and b) Group 2, without BFC. Clinical and immunovirologic data were collected. We used Student t-test and x2 or Fisher exact test to compare the characteristics of the two groups. Paired t-test was used to compare basal and follow-up data. The relationships between variables were evaluated by calculating Pearson's correlation coefficient and its significance.

RESULTS

HAART duration was significantly (p<0.0001) higher for patients in Group 1 than in Group 2, as well as PI (p<0.02) and NRTI (p<0.002) therapy duration. Current CD4 count and CD4 rise from nadir resulted significantly higher in Group 1 than in Group 2 (p<0.02 and 0.006, respectively). Whole Body Fat (WBF), Peripheral Fat (PF) and Leg (L) fat negatively correlated with PI and NRTI therapy duration, while Trunk Fat (TF)/PF positively correlated with PI and NNRTI duration. No significant correlation was found, instead, with NNRTI therapy duration. At 5-year follow-up, we registered a further increase in TF, Arms (A) and L fat, especially in PI-treated patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Body fat changes should always be considered when dealing with HIV-affected patients on HAART. The fat loss seemed to involve mainly peripheral regions, while fat accumulation tendency occurred in the trunk.

Platelet Shp2 negatively regulates thrombus stability under high shear stress

Essentials Shp2 negatively regulates thrombus stability under pathological shear rate. Shp2 suppresses TXA2 receptor-mediated platelet dense granule secretion. Through αIIbβ3 outside-in signaling, Shp2 targets calmodulin-dependent activation of Akt. Shp2 may serve to prevent the formation of unwanted occlusive thrombi. SUMMARY: Background Perpetuation is the final phase of thrombus formation; however, its mechanisms and regulation are poorly understood. Objective To investigate the mechanism of Shp2 in platelet function and thrombosis. Methods and results We demonstrate that the platelet-expressed Src homology region 2 domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase Shp2 is a negative regulator of thrombus stability under high shear stress. In a ferric chloride-induced mesenteric arteriole thrombosis model, megakaryocyte/platelet-specific Shp2-deficient mice showed less thrombi shedding than wild-type mice, although their occlusion times were comparable. In accordance with this in vivo phenotype, a microfluidic whole-blood perfusion assay revealed that the thrombi formed on collagen surfaces by Shp2-deficient platelets were more stable under high shear rates than those produced by wild-type platelets. Whereas Shp2 deficiency did not alter platelet responsiveness towards thrombin, ADP and collagen stimulation, Shp2-deficient platelets showed increased dense granule secretion when stimulated by the thromboxane A2 analog U46619. Shp2 appears to act downstream of integrin αIIb β3 outside-in signaling, inhibiting the phosphorylation of Akt (Ser473 and Thr308) and dense granule secretion. Calmodulin was also shown to bind both Shp2 and Akt, linking Shp2 to Akt activation. Conclusions Platelet Shp2 negatively regulates thrombus perpetuation under high shear stress. This signaling pathway may constitute an important mechanism for the prevention of unwanted occlusive thrombus formation, without dramatically interfering with hemostasis.

Femtosecond laser-assisted synthesis of silver nanoparticles and reduced graphene oxide hybrid for optical limiting

Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) functionalized with silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) is prepared using a femtosecond laser ablation in liquids method. By ablating the mixed aqueous solutions of silver nitrate and graphene oxide (GO) using femtosecond laser pulses, Ag ions and GO are simultaneously reduced and well-dispersed Ag NPs supported on rGO are obtained. The effect of laser power, irritation time and Ag ion concentration on the optical property and morphology of the products are systematically studied. The nonlinear optical responses of the functionalized graphene are studied using a nanosecond Z-scan technique. The rGO hybrid shows an enhanced nonlinear absorption (NLA) effect compared with GO and rGO, and thus exhibits an excellent optical limiting (OL) property with very low activating threshold, which is estimated to be about 0.38 J cm^-2. The enhanced NLA effect in rGO hybrids makes it possible to fabricate solid-state optical limiter, improving the practicality of graphene materials in the OL area.

[Prognostic values of grading system for lymph vessel tumor emboli in patients with invasive breast carcinomas of no special type]

Objective: To investigate the grading system for lymph vessel tumor emboli and its prognostic value in patients with invasive carcinomas of no special type (ICNST) of the breast. Methods: Clinical data of 466patients with ICNST were collected from January 2006 to December 2008 in the Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University. The expression levels of D2-40, estrogen receptor(ER), progesterone receptor(PR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2) were analyzed using immunohistochemical staining. Grades for lymph vessel tumoremboli were classified based on the number of mitotic and apoptotic figures in tumor cells under a high-power field. Correlation analysis was performed using Spearman rank correlation test. Kaplan-meier curves and Log-rank tests were used to analyze the survival rate. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard model was used to analyze the prognostic factors. Results: Among the 466 patients, grades for lymph vessel tumor emboli were categorized as follows: 280 cases were grade 0 (60.1%); 112 cases were grade 1 (24.0%); 58 cases were grade 2 (12.5%); 16 cases were grade 3 (3.4%). Correlation analyses showed that lymph vessel tumor emboli grading system was positively correlated with lymph node metastasis (r=0.365, P<0.001). Kaplan-Meier univariant analysis showed that histological grading, lymph vessel tumor emboli grading system, lymph node metastasis, the expression levels of ER, PR and HER-2 and molecular typing were associated with prognosis of patients (P<0.05 for all). Multivariate analysis of Cox proportional hazard model showed that lymph vessel tumor emboli grading system and lymph node metastasis were independent prognostic factors in patients with ICNST(P<0.05 for all). Conclusion: Grading system for lymph vessel tumor emboli canpredict the clinical outcome of patients with ICNST.

[Recombinant expression of hantaan virus protein N with application of Western-blot in detecting anti-hantavirus antibody]

Objective: S gene of hantavirus(HV) was expressed in insect cells by genetic engineering technology. The expression product of S gene was used as antigen to detect anti-HV specific antibody IgG in serum. Methods: Gene encoding NP of the strain HV-Z10 was amplified by PCR and then its eukaryotic expression system rBAC-Z10S-TN was constructed by using the routine genetic engineering method. SDS-PAGE was applied to measure the expression of rNP.Ion-exchange plus Ni-NTA-affinity chromatography was performed to purify the recombinant product. Indirect immuno-fluorescence assay (IFA) was used to determine the specific immune-reactivity of rNP. WB assay was established to detect the serum samples from 95 confirmed HFRS patients. Parameters related to the outcomes of detection were compared with the routine HV-IgG IFA method. Results: rBAC-Z10S-TN was able to express rNP with high efficiency. The purified rNP only showed a single protein fragment in the gel after SDS-PAGE. HV IgG could efficiently recognize rNP and hybridize with the recombinant protein. 97.67% of the serum samples from the HFRS patients were positive confirmed by WB. Conclusions: We successfully constructed a high efficient prokaryotic expression system of NP encoding gene from hantavirus strain HV-Z10. WB assay which was established in this study could be used as a new serological test for HFRS diagnosis, thanks to the simplicity, safety, sensitivity and specificity of this method.

Revealing potential long non-coding RNA biomarkers in lung adenocarcinoma using long non-coding RNA-mediated competitive endogenous RNA network

In our study, we aimed to reveal potential long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) biomarkers in lung adenocarcinoma (LAD) using lncRNA-mediated competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) network (LMCN). Competing lncRNA-mRNA interactions were identified using the hypergeometric test. Co-expression analysis for the competing lncRNA-mRNA interactions was implemented, and relying on the weight value >0.8, a highly competitive LMCN was further constructed. Degree distribution, betweenness and closeness for LMCN were carried out to analyze the network structure. Functional analyses of mRNAs in LMCN were carried out to further explore the biological functions of lncRNAs. Biclique algorithm was utilized to extract competing modules from the LMCN. Finally, we verified our findings in an independent sample set using qRT-PCR. Based on degrees >60, we identified 4 hubs, including DLEU2, SNHG12, HCP5, and LINC00472. Furthermore, 2 competing modules were identified, and LINC00472 in module 1 functioned as a hub in both LMCN and module. Functional implications of lncRNAs demonstrated that lncRNAs were related to histone modification, negative regulation of cell cycle, neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, and regulation of actin cytoskeleton. qRT-PCR results demonstrated that lncRNAs LINC00472, and HCP5 were down-regulated in LAD tissues, while the expression level of SNHG12 was up-regulated in LAD tissues. Our study sheds novel light on the roles of lncRNA-related ceRNA network in LAD and facilitates the detection of potential lncRNA biomarkers for LAD diagnosis and treatment. Remarkably, in our study, LINC00472, HCP5, and SNHG12 might be potential biomarkers for LAD management.

Long non-coding RNA MVIH acts as a prognostic marker in glioma and its role in cell migration and invasion

OBJECTIVE

High expression levels of lncRNA associated with microvascular invasion in HCC (lncRNA MVIH) were found to correlate with several solid tumors. However, little is known concerning the function of MVIH in glioma. The purpose of our study is to explore the role of lncRNA MVIH in clinical glioma samples and cell lines.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The expression levels of MVIH were analyzed in glioma surgical resection tissues and cells by RT-PCR. Additionally, the associations of MVIH expression with clinicopathological features were analyzed. Survival and Cox proportional-hazards regression analyses were performed to determine the correlation between MVIH expression levels and prognosis in the patients. The cell proliferation, migration ability, invasion ability were measured successively by CKK-8 assay, transwell and wound healing assay.

RESULTS

We found that MVIH was significantly upregulated in glioma cell lines and tissues. Furthermore, MVIH expression was positively correlated with KPS and WHO grade. Patients with MVIH high expression tumors had a worse overall survival compared to patients with MVIH high expression tumors. Moreover, Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis confirmed that MVIH was an independent risk factor for glioma. Finally, in vitro, we showed that up-regulation of MVIH expression promoted human glioma cells proliferation, invasion and migration, while down-regulation of MVIH expression suppressed human glioma cells proliferation, invasion and migration.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicated that MVIH expression may serve not only as a prognostic marker but also as a potential therapeutic target in glioma.

[Effect of bufalin on proliferation and apoptosis through ERK/RSK2 pathway in human esophageal carcinoma cell line xenografts in nude mice]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of bufalin on proliferation and apoptosis through ERK/RSK2 pathway in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma xenografts in nude mice.

METHODS

The subcutaneous xenograft model of esophageal cancer ECA109 cells in nude mice was established. The mice were divided into the model group, low-dose bufalin group, medium-dose bufalin group, high-dose bufalin group, PD98059 group and combination group to evaluate the effect of bufalin on the xenografts. The morphology of xenografts was observed by microscopy. The cell apoptosis index of xenografts was detected by TUNEL assay. The expression of ERK and RSK2 mRNA of human ECA109 cell transplantation tumor in nude mice was examined by real-time quantitative PCR. The protein levels of ERK, p-ERK, RSK2, p-RSK2, GSK3β, p-GSK3β, Bad and p-Bad in the xenografts were examined by Western blot and Immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

The tumor size of nude mice in the model group, low-dose bufalin group (BL), medium -dose bufalin group (BM), high-dose bufalin group (BH), PD98059 group and combined therapy group (BP) was (1.758±0.181) cm(3,) (1.680±0.150) cm(3,) (1.285±0.134) cm(3,) (0.873±0.095) cm(3,) (0.815±0.108) cm(3) and (0.530±0.104) cm(3,) respectively. Histological examination showed that the xenografts of each group had varying degrees of necrosis, and the most extensive necrosis was observed in the BP group. The TUNEL assay showed that the cell apoptosis index of xenografts in the model, BL, BM, BH, PD98059 and BP groups was (6.0±0.6)%, (11.0±0.7)%, (19.1±0.9)%, (25.1±1.4)%, (20.0±1.2)% and (17.1±0.7)%, respectively, which is highest in the BH group. The real-time quantitative PCR results showed that the ΔCT values of ERK mRNA in the model, BL, BM, BH, PD98059 and BP groups were 0.270±0.084, 0.293±0.081, 0.596±0.224, 0.857±0.183, 0.868±0.187 and 1.313±0.282, respectively. The ΔCT values of RSK2 mRNA in the model, BL, BM, BH, PD98059 and BP groups were 0.340±0.062, 0.337±0.071, 0.642±0.226, 0.915±0.170, 0.923±0.176 and 1.413±0.269, respectively. The relative expression of ERK and RSK2 mRNA was gradually decreased. Western blot and immunohistochemistry results showed that the protein levels of ERK, RSK2 and Bad in each group were not significantly different (P>0.05). The protein levels of p-ERK in the model, BL, BM, BH, PD98059 and BP groups were 0.721±0.094, 0.695±0.095, 0.555±0.080, 0.388±0.052, 0.341±0.060, 0.235± 0.056, respectively. The median immunoreactivity scores of p-ERK in each group were 8, 8, 6, 4, 5 and 3. The protein levels of p-RSK2 in the model, BL, BM, BH, PD98059 and BP groups were 0.613±0.085, 0.612±0.084, 0.427±0.089, 0.305±0.056, 0.258±0.051, 0.158±0.058, respectively. The median immunoreactivity scores of p-RSK in each group were 8, 8, 5, 3, 3 and 1. The protein level of GSK3β in the model, BL, BM, BH, PD98059 and BP groups were increased gradually, while the protein level of p-GSK3β and p-Bad were decreased gradually.

CONCLUSIONS

Bufalin exerts significant inhibitory effect on the esophageal squamous cell carcinoma xenogragts in nude mice. Bufalin may suppress the growth of xenogragts in nude mice by down-regulating the level of ERK and RSK2 phosphorylation, inhibit the proliferation of xenogragts via inactivating GSK3β and promote apoptosis through down-regulation of p-Bad.

Metabolic targeting of oncogene MYC by selective activation of the proton-coupled monocarboxylate family of transporters

Deregulation of the MYC oncogene produces Myc protein that regulates multiple aspects of cancer cell metabolism, contributing to the acquisition of building blocks essential for cancer cell growth and proliferation. Therefore, disabling Myc function represents an attractive therapeutic option for cancer treatment. However, pharmacological strategies capable of directly targeting Myc remain elusive. Here, we identified that 3-bromopyruvate (3-BrPA), a drug candidate that primarily inhibits glycolysis, preferentially induced massive cell death in human cancer cells overexpressing the MYC oncogene, in vitro and in vivo, without appreciable effects on those exhibiting low MYC levels. Importantly, pharmacological inhibition of glutamine metabolism synergistically potentiated the synthetic lethal targeting of MYC by 3-BrPA due in part to the metabolic disturbance caused by this combination. Mechanistically, we identified that the proton-coupled monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1) and MCT2, which enable efficient 3-BrPA uptake by cancer cells, were selectively activated by Myc. Two regulatory mechanisms were involved: first, Myc directly activated MCT1 and MCT2 transcription by binding to specific recognition sites of both genes; second, Myc transcriptionally repressed miR29a and miR29c, resulting in enhanced expression of their target protein MCT1. Of note, expressions of MCT1 and MCT2 were each significantly elevated in MYCN-amplified neuroblastomas and C-MYC-overexpressing lymphomas than in tumors without MYC overexpression, correlating with poor prognosis and unfavorable patient survival. These results identify a novel mechanism by which Myc sensitizes cells to metabolic inhibitors and validate 3-BrPA as potential Myc-selective cancer therapeutics.

A genetic coding variant rs72474224 in GJB2 is associated with clinical features of psoriasis vulgaris in a Chinese Han population

Our recent targeted sequencing study identified a missense single-nucleotide polymorphism rs72474224 (c.324C>T) in GJB2. To investigate the correlation between rs72474224 (c.324C>T) and subphenotypes of psoriasis, genotype data for rs72474224 (c.324C>T, p.Val37Ile) was analyzed in 9946 cases and 9906 controls. The additive model provided the best fit for rs72474224 (P = 7.34 × 10(-9)). The genotypic and allelic frequency distributions were associated with plaque psoriasis in case-only (Pgenotype = 2.67 × 10(-3), Pallele = 6.22 × 10(-4)) and subphenotype-control (Pgenotype = 1.58 × 10(-11), Pallele = 8.16 × 10(-12)) analyses. No other significant difference was found in case-only analyses. Rs72474224 in GJB2 is preferentially associated with plaque psoriasis in Chinese population and might contribute to the complexity of psoriasis clinical features.

TBX21 polymorphisms are associated with virus persistence in hepatitis C virus infection patients from a high-risk Chinese population

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major cause of chronic liver disease and the varied outcomes of the infection depend on both viral and host factors. We have demonstrated that the HCV alternate reading frame protein (F protein) is related to Th1/Th2 bias which is involved in virus persistence in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that genetic variants of TBX21 (T cell specific T-box transcription factor) were associated with the outcomes of HCV infection and F protein generation. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (rs17250932, rs2074190, rs4794067) in the TBX21 gene were genotyped in a case-control study in a cohort of a high-risk group, including 354 healthy controls and 747 CHC patients (190 anti-F protein antibody seronegative patients and 557 anti-F protein antibody seropositive patients). Results showed that the rs4794067 C allele in the TBX21 promoter was significantly more common in CHC patients (OR = 1.335, 95% CI = 1.058-1.684, P = 0.015), exceptionally in anti-F protein seropositive patients (OR = 1.547, 95% CI = 1.140-2.101, P = 0.005), compared with healthy controls. And the risk effect was also significantly high in patients with HCV 1b genotype and mild fibrosis (P = 0.021, P = 0.010, respectively). Compared with the most frequent haplotype TAT, haplotype analysis showed that the distribution of TAC was significantly different between the chronic HCV carrier group and the healthy group, and so was the anti-F antibody seronegativity group and the anti-F antibody seronegativity group (all P < 0.001). Our results suggested that TBX21 variants may be involved in the etiology of this disease.

Single-nucleotide polymorphism analysis of GH, GHR, and IGF-1 genes in minipigs

Tibetan (TB) and Bama (BM) miniature pigs are two popular pig breeds that are used as experimental animals in China due to their small body size. Here, we analyzed single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in gene fragments that are closely related to growth traits [growth hormone (GH), growth hormone receptor (GHR), and insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1)] in these pig breeds and a large white (LW) control pig breed. On the basis of the analysis of 100 BMs, 108 TBs, and 50 LWs, the polymorphic distribution levels of GH, GHR, and IGF-1 were significantly different among these three pig breeds. According to correlation analyses between SNPs and five growth traits--body weight (BW), body length (BL), withers height (WH), chest circumference (CC), and abdomen circumference (AC)--three SNP loci in BMs and four SNP loci in TBs significantly affected growth traits. Three SNP sites in BMs and four SNP sites in TBs significantly affected growth traits. SNPs located in the GH gene fragment significantly affected BL and CC at locus 12 and BL at locus 45 in BMs, and also BW, WH, CC, and AC at locus 45 and WH and CC at locus 93 in TBs. One SNP at locus 85 in the BM GHR gene fragment significantly affected all growth traits. All indices were significantly reduced with a mixture of alleles at locus 85. These results provide more information regarding the genetic background of these minipig species and indicate useful selection markers for pig breeding programs.

Associated analysis of single nucleotide polymorphisms found on exon 3 of the IGF-1 gene with Tibetan miniature pig growth traits

The IGF-1 gene is an important regulating factor that has a growth-promoting effect on growth hormone. The IGF-1 gene promotes muscle cell differentiation in the muscle cell formation process. The IGF-1 gene also regulates the growth of skeletal muscle during skeletal muscle growth. In addition, the IGF-1 gene plays an important role in the formation of mammals and poultry embryos, and the process of postnatal growth. The IGF-1 gene has been implicated as a candidate gene for the regulation of pig growth traits. We analyzed exon 3 of the IGF-1 gene polymorphism in Tibetan miniature pigs (N = 128) by polymerase chain reaction-single-strand conformation polymorphism and DNA sequencing. One single nucleotide polymorphism (T40C) was found on exon 3 of the IGF-1 gene. Statistical analysis of genotype frequencies revealed that the T allele was dominant in Tibetan miniature pigs at the T40C locus. The association analysis showed that the IGF-1 mutation had an effect on the body weight, body length, and chest circumference of pigs aged 6-8 months. In addition, the IGF-1 mutation had an effect on body weight in pigs aged 9-11 months (P < 0.05). We speculated that the pigs with the TT genotype grow more rapidly compared to those with the TC genotype. The TC genotype of the Tibetan miniature pig has a smaller body type. This information provides a theoretical basis for the genetic background of Tibetan miniature pigs.

Adult neurogenesis and neurite outgrowth are impaired in LRRK2 G2019S mice

The generation and maturation of adult neural stem/progenitor cells are impaired in many neurodegenerative diseases, among them is Parkinson's disease (PD). In mammals, including humans, adult neurogenesis is a lifelong feature of cellular brain plasticity in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) and in the subventricular zone (SVZ)/olfactory bulb system. Hyposmia, depression, and anxiety are early non-motor symptoms in PD. There are parallels between brain regions associated with non-motor symptoms in PD and neurogenic regions. In autosomal dominant PD, mutations in the leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene are frequent. LRRK2 homologs in non-vertebrate systems play an important role in chemotaxis, cell polarity, and neurite arborization. We investigated adult neurogenesis and the neurite development of new neurons in the DG and SVZ/olfactory bulb system in bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) human Lrrk2 G2019S transgenic mice. We report that mutant human Lrrk2 is highly expressed in the hippocampus in the DG and the SVZ of adult Lrrk2 G2019S mice. Proliferation of newly generated cells is significantly decreased and survival of newly generated neurons in the DG and olfactory bulb is also severely impaired. In addition, after stereotactic injection of a GFP retrovirus, newly generated neurons in the DG of Lrrk2 G2019S mice exhibited reduced dendritic arborization and fewer spines. This loss in mature, developed spines might point towards a decrease in synaptic connectivity. Interestingly, physical activity partially reverses the decrease in neuroblasts observed in Lrrk2 G2010S mice. These data further support a role for Lrrk2 in neuronal morphogenesis and provide new insights into the role of Lrrk2 in adult neurogenesis.

Impaired dopaminergic neurotransmission and microtubule-associated protein tau alterations in human LRRK2 transgenic mice

Mutations in the Leucine Rich Repeat Kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene, first described in 2004 have now emerged as the most important genetic finding in both autosomal dominant and sporadic Parkinson's disease (PD). While a formidable research effort has ensued since the initial gene discovery, little is known of either the normal or the pathological role of LRRK2. We have created lines of mice that express human wild-type (hWT) or G2019S Lrrk2 via bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) transgenesis. In vivo analysis of the dopaminergic system revealed abnormal dopamine neurotransmission in both hWT and G2019S transgenic mice evidenced by a decrease in extra-cellular dopamine levels, which was detected without pharmacological manipulation. Immunopathological analysis revealed changes in localization and increased phosphorylation of microtubule binding protein tau in G2019S mice. Quantitative biochemical analysis confirmed the presence of differential phospho-tau species in G2019S mice but surprisingly, upon dephosphorylation the tau isoform banding pattern in G2019S mice remained altered. This suggests that other post-translational modifications of tau occur in G2019S mice. We hypothesize that Lrrk2 may impact on tau processing which subsequently leads to increased phosphorylation. Our models will be useful for further understanding of the mechanistic actions of LRRK2 and future therapeutic screening.

Lrrk2 localization in the primate basal ganglia and thalamus: a light and electron microscopic analysis in monkeys

The Leucine Rich Repeat Kinase-2 (LRRK2) gene is a common mutation target in Parkinson's disease (PD), but the cellular mechanisms by which such mutations underlie the pathophysiology of PD remain poorly understood. Thus, to better characterize the neuronal target sites of LRRK2 mutations in the primate brain, we studied the cellular and ultrastructural localization of Lrrk2 immunoreactivity in the monkey basal ganglia. As previously described, the monkey striatum was the most enriched basal ganglia structure in Lrrk2 labeling. Both projection neurons and parvalbumin-containing GABAergic interneurons displayed Lrrk2 immunoreactivity. At the electron microscopic level, striatal Lrrk2 labeling was associated predominantly with dendritic shafts and subsets of putative glutamatergic axon terminals. At the pallidal level, moderate cellular Lrrk2 immunostaining was found in the external globus pallidus (GPe), while neurons in the internal globus pallidus (GPi) were devoid of Lrrk2 immunoreactivity. Strong labeling was associated with cholinergic neurons in the nucleus basalis of Meynert. Midbrain dopaminergic neurons in the primate substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) and ventral tegmental area harbored a significant level of Lrrk2 labeling, while neurons in the subthalamic nucleus were lightly immunostained. Most thalamic nuclei were enriched in Lrrk2 immunoreactivity, except for the centromedian nucleus that was completely devoid of labeling. Thus, Lrrk2 protein is widely distributed in the monkey basal ganglia, suggesting that gene mutations in PD may result in multifarious pathophysiological effects that could impact various target sites in the functional circuitry of the primate basal ganglia.

Tau suppression in a neurodegenerative mouse model improves memory function

Neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) are the most common intraneuronal inclusion in the brains of patients with neurodegenerative diseases and have been implicated in mediating neuronal death and cognitive deficits. Here, we found that mice expressing a repressible human tau variant developed progressive age-related NFTs, neuronal loss, and behavioral impairments. After the suppression of transgenic tau, memory function recovered, and neuron numbers stabilized, but to our surprise, NFTs continued to accumulate. Thus, NFTs are not sufficient to cause cognitive decline or neuronal death in this model of tauopathy.

Novel murine model of pneumococcal pneumonia: use of temperature as a measure of disease severity to compare the efficacies of moxifloxacin and levofloxacin

Surface temperature measured by an infrared temperature-scanning thermometer was used to evaluate disease severity and predict imminent death in a murine model of pneumococcal pneumonia. We showed that a decrease in temperature was associated with increasing severity of disease and concomitant histological changes and also that a temperature of 30 degrees C or less was a predictor of death. Furthermore, viable bacterial counts in the lungs of mice euthanized at a temperature of < or = 30 degrees C were not significantly different from those seen in the lungs of mice allowed to die without intervention. These data support temperature change as a more subtle indicator of outcome than death and demonstrate that this could be used as a reliable end point for euthanasia. To test the utility of our model in a drug trial, we examined the efficacies of moxifloxacin and levofloxacin by using temperature as a measure of disease severity prior to and during treatment. Regardless of the antibiotic used, mice assessed as moderately ill (temperature > or = 32 degrees C) at the start of treatment had better clinical and bacteriological outcomes than mice assessed as severely ill (temperature < 32 degrees C). However, moxifloxacin offered better protection and greater bacterial clearance than did levofloxacin in all infected mice independent of disease severity. This model not only allows a more subtle evaluation of drug efficacy but also ensures a better degree of standardization and a more humane approach to drug efficacy studies involving animals.

Laser pretreatment protects cells of broad bean from UV-B radiation damage

In order to determine the role of lasers in the stress resistance of broad bean (Vicia faba L.) to ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation, the embryos in seeds were exposed to He-Ne laser or CO2 laser radiation. Afterwards they were cultivated in Petri dishes in a constant temperature incubator until the lengths of epicotyls were nearly 3 cm. The epicotyls were then exposed to 1.02, 3.03 or 4.52 kJ m(-2) UV-B radiation, respectively, under 70 micromol m(-2) s(-1) photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) in a growth cabinet. Changes in the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA), ascorbic acid (AsA) and UV-B absorbing compounds (absorbance at 300 nm) were measured to test the effects of laser pretreatment. The results showed that laser pretreatment of embryos enhanced UV-B stress resistance in the epicotyls of the broad bean by decreasing the MDA concentration and increasing the content of AsA and UV-B absorbing compounds. We suggest that those changes in MDA, AsA and UV-B absorbing compounds were responsible for the increase in stress resistance observed in the broad bean. This is the first investigation reporting the use of laser pretreatment to protect the cells of the broad bean from UV-B-induced damage.

Detecting residual ischemia and identifying coronary artery disease after myocardial infarction using dobutamine technetium-99m-MIBI SPECT

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate dobutamine technetium-99m methoxy isobutyl nitrile (sestamibi) single-photon emission computed tomography (Dobu-ECT) in detecting residual ischemia and identifying coronary vessel disease after myocardial infarction.

METHODS

Sixty-two patients with confirmed myocardial infarction were studied with Dobu-ECT at the time of coronary artery angiography. Dobutamine was administered intravenously in incremental rates from 5 to 40 micrograms.kg-1.min-1 at 3-minute intervals. At the highest infusion rate, 7.4 x 10(8) Bq 99mTc-MIBI was injected intravenously, and tomographic imaging was performed after one hour. Resting images were taken after 24 hours, with a second dose of 99mTc-MIBI.

RESULTS

The sensitivity of Dobu-ECT in detecting residual ischemia of myocardial infarction was 76%, which was higher than dobutamine electrocardiography (Dobu-ECG). Regardless of the single-, double- or triple-vessel diseases, Dobu-ECT was superior to Dobu-ECG in identifying residual ischemia (56% vs 4%, 86% vs 27%, 100% vs 47%, P < 0.01, respectively). The incidence of residual ischemia in patients receiving thrombolytic therapy was 67%, lower than patients without thrombolysis (72%) or those with an old myocardial infarction (94%). But the differences were not statistically significant. Dobu-ECT detected only 56% of ischemias in non-infarct related myocardium. Eighty-two percent of all significantly stenosed vessels were detected with Dobu-ECT, and 84% of patients with multivessel disease could be accurately identified. The sensitivity of Dobu-ECT was significantly greater for detecting severe stenosis over moderate stenosis. The sensitivity for detecting stenosis in the right coronary artery was greater than left anterior descending or left circumflex, but its specificity was lower.

CONCLUSION

Dobu-ECT can identify residual ischemia, as well as its location and extent after myocardial infarction. Dobu-ECT can also accurately detect significantly stenosed vessels.

Ethanol feeding does not affect the efficacy or pharmacokinetics of azithromycin, trovafloxacin, or ceftriaxone in a rat model of pneumococcal pneumonia

A rat model of ethanol feeding was used to study the effects of ethanol on antibiotic therapy of pneumococcal pneumonia. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (150 g) received a liquid diet containing 36% of total calories as ethanol. Controls were pair-fed a liquid diet without ethanol or received rat chow. Diets began 7 days pre- and continued postinfection. Rats were infected transtracheally with type 3 Streptococcus pneumoniae and then treated with azithromycin (50 mg/kg), trovafloxacin (50 mg/kg), or ceftriaxone (100 mg/kg) injected subcutaneously twice daily for 5 days. Antibiotic levels in serum, lung cells, and lavage fluid were measured by HPLC. Ethanol- and pair-fed rats had depressed baseline peripheral neutrophil counts but were able to generate adequate numbers of peripheral and pulmonary polymorphonuclear leukocytes early in the course of their infection. Ethanol feeding did not alter the pharmacokinetics of azithromycin, trovafloxacin, or ceftriaxone. All three antibiotics were equally effective in curing experimental pneumococcal pneumonia, and survival rates were similar in treated ethanol-fed and control rats.

Conserved cis- and trans-acting determinants for replication initiation and regulation of replication fork movement in tetrahymenid species

The rDNA minichromosomes of Tetrahymena thermophila and Tetrahymena pyriformis share a high degree of sequence similarity and structural organization. The T.thermophila 5' non-transcribed spacer (5' NTS) is sufficient for replication and contains three repeated sequence elements that are conserved in T.pyriformis , including type I elements, the only known determinant for replication control. To assess the role of conserved sequences in replication control, structural and functional studies were performed on T.pyriformis rDNA. Similar to T.thermophila , replication initiates exclusively in the 5' NTS, localizing to a 900 bp segment. Elongating replication forks arrest transiently at one site which bears strong similarity to a tripartite sequence element present at fork arrest sites in T.thermophila rDNA. An in vitro type I element binding activity indistinguishable from the T.thermophila protein, ssA-TIBF, was detected in T.pyriformis extracts. The respective TIBF proteins bind with comparable affinity to type I elements from both species, suggesting that in vivo recognition could cross species boundaries. Despite these similarities, the T.pyriformis 5' NTS failed to support replication in transformed T.thermophila cells, suggesting a more complex genetic organization than previously realized.

Effects of simulated weightlessness and gamma-irradiation on myocardial cells and osteoblasts

The effects of simulated weightlessness and gamma-irradiation on the structure and function of the myocardial cells and osteoblasts were investigated with a rotating clinostat and 2 Gy 60Co gamma-irradiation. The results showed: (1) Under the simulated weightlessness (SWL), the diameter of the myocardial cells decreased 40%. And the long-short diameter proportion decreased 70%, (P < 0.01); SWL affected the cell skeleton and the distribution of microfilament became ununiform, the orientation was unclear; SWL had significant effects on osteoblast disintegration and proliferation. The disintegration function decreased and the proliferation process was inhibited; (2) 2 Gy 60Co gamma-ray irradiation had significant effects on Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) activity and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Malonaldehyde (MDA) content in the myocardial cells, (P < 0.05) (5) A synergistic effect was observed between irradiation and SWL.

[Effects of simulated weightlessness and irradiation on metabolism of rat myocardial cells cultured in vitro]

To investigate the changes of the metabolism of rat myocardiac cells cultured in vitro under simulated weightlessness and gamma-irradiation, rat myocardiac cells were rotated on a horizontal clinostat, and irradiated with 2Gy 60Co gamma-ray. The results showed: (1) after irradiation, the LDH activity and SOD concentrations showed a significant increase, and the MDA concentration also increased. (2) After irradiation, LDH activity increased 60% on the 3rd day, and SOD concentration almost doubled on the first day. (2) MDA concentration also increased but it reduced to normal after the 3rd day. (3) Simple rotation on the clinostat showed no effect on the parameter, but there was a synergistic effect when it was combined with gamma-irradiation.

[The effect of anisodaminum and dexamethasone on microcirculation, TNF, LPO and pathology in MODS]

In order to evaluate the effect of anisodaminum and dexamethasone to the microcurculation, TNF, LPO and pathology in MODS, we first established MODS model using cecem ligature and perfuration of rabbit then divided it into four groups: anisodaminum, dexamethasone, combined anisodaminum and dexamethasone and control. After used the corresponding drugs we observed the change of microcirculation, TNF, LPO and organ pathology. The result showed that microcirculation improved, the serum level of TNF and LPO decreased, and the pathomorphological changes lessensed. It is suggested that the combined use of anisodaminum and dexamethasone may be a new way for treating MODS.

[Effects of simulated weightlessness and overweight on the growth of osteoblast cultured in vitro]

A special rotator designed for this experiment was used to simulate the gravitational conditions. 3 groups of osteoblast cells were cultured under simulated hypogravity, normal (1 g) or hypergravity acceleratively (3 g) for 7 d. Changes of cell shape and speed of cell division were observed. The results showed that cells cultured under simulated hypogravity became round and cells divided slowly as compared with 1g group. While cells cultured under 3 g divided more actively and many growth spots appeared in the culture bottle.