Fatty acid metabolism-related lncRNAs are potential biomarkers for survival prediction in clear cell renal cell carcinoma

Metabolic reprogramming of energy is a newly recognized characteristic of cancer. In our current investigation, we examined the possible predictive importance of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) associated to fatty acid metabolism in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). We conducted an analysis of the gene expression data obtained from patients diagnosed with ccRCC using the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and the ArrayExpress database. We performed a screening to identify lncRNAs that are differentially expressed in fatty acid metabolism. Based on these findings, we developed a prognostic risk score model using these fatty acid metabolism-related lncRNAs. We then validated this model using Cox regression analysis, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, and principal-component analysis (PCA). Furthermore, the prognostic risk score model was successfully validated using both the TCGA cohort and the E-MTAB-1980 cohort. We utilized gene set variation analysis (GSVA) and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) to determine the correlation between fatty acid metabolism and the PPAR signaling pathway in patients with ccRCC at various clinical stages and prognoses. We have discovered compelling evidence of the interaction between immune cells in the tumor microenvironment and tumor cells, which leads to immune evasion and resistance to drugs. This was achieved by the utilization of advanced techniques such as the CIBERSORT method, ESTIMATE R package, ssGSEA algorithm, and TIMER database exploration. Ultimately, we have established a network of competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) that is related to fatty acid metabolism. The findings of our study suggest that medicines focused on fatty acid metabolism could be clinically significant for individuals with ccRCC. The utilization of this risk model, which is centered around the lncRNAs associated with fatty acid metabolism, could potentially provide valuable prognostic information and hold immunotherapeutic implications for patients with ccRCC.

The Safety and Efficacy of Hepatic Arterial Infusion Chemotherapy Combined with PD-(L)1 Inhibitors and Molecular Targeted Therapies for the Treatment of Intermediate and Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma Unsuitable for Transarterial Chemoembolization

Objective

To investigate the efficacy and safety of hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) combined with PD-(L)1 inhibitors and molecular targeted therapies (MTT) for intermediate and advanced HCC that are unsuitable for transarterial chemoembolization (TACE).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of data from patients with TACE-unsuitable HCC who were receiving triple therapy from January 2020 to December 2021 at two medical centers. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS), and the secondary outcomes were progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rates (ORR), disease control rates (DCR), and incidence of adverse events (AEs).

Results

A total of 55 patients were enrolled in the study with median treatment periods of 4 and 6 for HAIC and PD-(L)1 inhibitors, respectively. The median OS and PFS were 15.0 and 10.0 months, respectively, with a median follow-up of 11.0 months (range: 4.0-27.5 months). According to the mRECIST criteria, the optimal ORR was 43.6% (24/55) and the DCR was 61.8% (34/55). The incidence of AEs was 58.2%, with grade 3 and above accounting for 20.0%; elevated AST (18.2%), hyperbilirubinemia (16.4%), and thrombocytopenia (16.4%) were most common. There were no treatment-related fatalities and all AEs were effectively managed. Multifactorial analysis showed that NLR > 3.82 (HR 2.380, 95% CI 1.116-2-5.079, P = 0.025), ECOG 1 (HR 2.906, 95% CI 1.373-6.154, P = 0.005), and extrahepatic metastases (HR 8.373, 95% CI 3.492-20.078, P < 0.001) were associated with the median OS.

Conclusion

Triple therapy with HAIC, PD-(L)1 inhibitors, and MTT was safe and effective for patients with intermediate and advanced HCC for TACE-unsuitability.

Therapeutic Effects of Shenfu Injection in Shock

Shock is the clinical manifestation of acute circulatory failure, which results in inadequate utilization of cellular oxygen. It is a common condition with high mortality rates in intensive care units. The intravenous administration of Shenfu Injection (SFI) may attenuate inflammation, regulate hemodynamics and oxygen metabolism; inhibit ischemia-reperfusion responses; and have adaptogenic and antiapoptotic effects. In this review, we have discussed the clinical applications and antishock pharmacological effects of SFI. Further in-depth and large-scale multicenter clinical studies are warranted to determine the therapeutic effects of SFI on shock.

[Correlation between C-reactive protein to albumin ratio and restenosis after femoral popliteal stenting in patients with lower extremity arteriosclerotic obliterans]

Objective: To investigate the study of the correlation between C-reactive protein to albumin ratio (CAR) and restenosis after stenting in patients with lower extremity atherosclerotic occlusive disease(LEASO). Methods: The clinical data of 95 patients with LEASO admitted to the Department of Vascular Surgery of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from June 2020 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 67 males and 28 females,aged (73.1±9.4) years (range:51 to 92 years). The patients were classified into the restenosis group (n=61) and the patency group (n=34) according to the CT angiography results. Independent sample t test,Mann-Whitney U test and χ2 test were used to compare the data between two groups. Risk factors for restenosis after femoropopliteal artery stenting in patients with LEASO were analyzed using multivariate Cox regression. The relationship between preoperative CAR level and restenosis after stent placement was analyzed. Subject operating characteristic(ROC) curves of CAR were plotted to assess the predictive value of CAR for restenosis after stenting,and the results were expressed as area under the curve (AUC). Results: The aortoiliac calcification grade,number of stents,length of stents,C-reactive protein and CAR levels in restenosis group were higher than those in the patency group,and the serum albumin level was lower than that in the patency group(all P<0.05). And the results of multifactorial Cox regression analysis showed that higher pre-procedure CAR level and lower ABI value was an independent risk factor for in-stent restenosis. The AUC of the ROC curve for restenosis was 0.737(95%CI:0.617 to 0.856),the AUC of the ROC curve for 12-month restenosis was 0.709(95%CI:0.602 to 0.815), and the AUC of the ROC curve for 24-month restenosis was 0.702(95%CI:0.594 to 0.811). Conclusion: Higher pre-procedural CAR levels in patients with LEASO is risk factor for in-stent restenosis,and CAR has a predictive value for restenosis after lower extremity arterial stent dilatation and angioplasty.

[Clinical analysis of surgical treatment of infection after interventional operation for major iliac artery disease in 6 cases]

Objective: To explore the surgical treatment strategy of stent graft infection after interventional treatment of major iliac artery related diseases. Methods: Retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data of 6 patients with secondary stent graft infection after interventional treatment for major iliac artery related diseases admitted to the Department of Vascular Surgery,Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital,Medical School of Nanjing University from November 2021 to August 2022.There were 5 males and 1 female,with a mean age of 64 years (range:49 to 79 years).The infection time was 53 to 3 165 days.All the 6 patients received surgical treatment,including 3 patients who underwent anatomic bypass grafting (axillary arterial-femoral artery bypass,femoral arterial-femoral artery bypass) using artificial vessels,and 3 patients who underwent in situ abdominal aorta reconstruction using bovine pericardium.The perioperative situation,postoperative infection and the occurrence of serious adverse events were recorded,and the safety of different treatment methods and materials was evaluated. Results: All patients successfully completed the operation and no death occurred during hospitalization.Intraoperative blood loss was 2 000~5 000 ml,and intraoperative blood transfusion was 1 600 to 5 350 ml.All the patients were followed up for 81 to 395 days after surgery,and the incision healed well,and no reinfection occurred.Postoperative gastrointestinal bleeding occurred in 1 patient,secondary surgery (retroperitoneal hematoma removal) was performed in 1 patient due to postoperative bleeding at the vascular anastomosis,both lower limb amputations were performed in 1 patient due to postoperative lower limb ischemia,and intermittent claudication occurred in 2 patients.All patients were alive at the last follow-up. Conclusion: For patients with aortic stent graft infection,when the infection is not serious and there is enough space to block the proximal and distal aorta,in situ aortic reconstruction is an effective treatment,and different materials can achieve satisfactory results in a short period of time.

Transition cow clusters with distinctive antioxidant ability and their relation to performance and metabolic status in early lactation

Metabolic and oxidative stress have been characterized as risk factors during the transition period from pregnancy to lactation. Although mutual relations between both types of stress have been suggested, they rarely have been studied concomitantly. For this, a total of 99 individual transition dairy cows (117 cases, 18 cows sampled during 2 consecutive lactations) were included in this experiment. Blood samples were taken at -7, 3, 6, 9, and 21 d relative to calving and concentrations of metabolic parameters (glucose, β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA), nonesterified fatty acids, insulin, insulin-like growth factor 1, and fructosamine) were determined. In the blood samples of d 21, biochemical profiles related to liver function and parameters related to oxidative status were determined. First, cases were allocated to 2 different BHBA groups (ketotic vs. nonketotic, N:n = 20:33) consisting of animals with an average postpartum BHBA concentration and at least 2 out of 4 postpartum sampling points exceeding 1.2 mmol/L or remaining below 0.8 mmol/L, respectively. Second, oxidative parameters [proportion of oxidized glutathione to total glutathione in red blood cells (%)], activity of glutathione peroxidase, and of superoxide dismutase, concentrations of malondialdehyde and oxygen radical absorbance capacity were used to perform a fuzzy C-means clustering. From this, 2 groups were obtained [i.e., lower antioxidant ability (LAA80%, n = 31) and higher antioxidant ability (HAA80%, n = 19)], with 80% referring to the cutoff value for cluster membership. Increased concentrations of malondialdehyde, decreased superoxide dismutase activity, and impaired oxygen radical absorbance capacity were observed in the ketotic group compared with the nonketotic group, and inversely, the LAA80% group showed increased concentrations of BHBA. In addition, the concentration of aspartate transaminase was higher in the LAA80% group compared with the HAA80% group. Both the ketotic and LAA80% groups showed lower dry matter intake. However, a lower milk yield was observed in the LAA80% group but not in the ketotic group. Only 1 out of 19 (5.3%) and 3 out of 31 (9.7%) cases from the HAA80% and LAA80% clusters belong to the ketotic and nonketotic group, respectively. These findings suggested that dairy cows vary in oxidative status at the beginning of the lactation, and fuzzy C-means clustering allows to classify observations with distinctive oxidative status. Dairy cows with higher antioxidant capacity in early lactation rarely develop ketosis.

[Development in diagnostic criteria for allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis]

Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is an allergic lung disease caused by the sensitization of Aspergillus fumigatus. In recent years, the research into ABPA has progressed, the testing methods have improved and the diagnostic criteria have been continuously updated. There is no gold standard for the diagnosis of the disease. The diagnostic criteria for ABPA include predisposing diseases, fungal-related immunoassay and pathological examination. Understanding the clinical significance of ABPA diagnostic criteria may help to prevent irreversible bronchopulmonary injury, improve respiratory function and improve the prognosis of patients.

[Clinical features of IgG4-related lung disease]

Objective: To explore the clinical features of IgG4-related lung disease. Methods: The clinical data of 60 patients diagnosed with IgG4-related lung disease in Peking University People's Hospital from February 2012 to May 2021 were retrospectively collected. Analysis was made to explore the features of clinical manifestation, laboratory, imaging, prognosis and other characteristics of the disease. Results: A total of 60 patients were included, with 40 males, age of (58.2±12.9) years, an age of onset of (57.1±13.2) years, and 31.7% (19 cases) of the patients had a history of allergic disease. 36.7% (22 cases) of the patients had respiratory symptoms during the disease. 94.6% (53/56) of patients had serum IgG4>1.35 g/L, 24.1% (14/58) of patients had increased eosinophils, 79.2% (38/48) of patients had increased IgE level, and 53.7% (29/54) of patients had decreased C3 or C4. Common imaging findings included nodular changes (38 cases, 63.3%), mediastinal and/or hilar lymphadenopathy (34 cases, 56.7%), and ground glass opacities (31 cases, 51.7%). Fifty-three cases (88.3%) showed two or more imaging changes. The pathological examination of the patient was mainly characterized by lymphoplasmacytic infiltration and fibrosis, with only one case of phlebitis obliterans. Compared with the asymptomatic group (38 cases), patients with respiratory symptoms (22 cases) showed higher level of serum total IgG and eosinophils (43.2 vs 17.8 g/L, 0.30×10⁹/L vs 0.14×10⁹/L, P<0.05), lower proportion of allergic diseases, and higher proportion of consolidation shadows on chest CT (P<0.05). There were no significant differences in serum IgG4, IgE, complement levels, and imaging outcomes after treatment between the two groups (P>0.05). Conclusions: The clinical manifestations of IgG4-related lung disease are atypical, and asymptomatic patients account for a high proportion. The imaging of the disease is highly heterogeneous, and patients are prone to show coexisted multiple imaging changes. The main clinical features and imaging outcomes of patients with and without respiratory symptoms are not significantly different.

[Application of meandering mesenteric artery in vascular surgery]

In recent years, the therapeutic concepts and surgical methods of the meandering mesenteric artery involved in atherosclerosis have been reported in the literature, and the importance of this lateral branch circulation in the field of vascular surgery has received more attention. With the improvement of imaging techniques, the discovery rate of this collateral circulation increased. In the presence of major iliac artery occlusion, the meandering mesenteric artery may serve as an important collateral circulation to relieve ischemia in the visceral or lower extremities. The meandering mesenteric artery may also lead to type Ⅱ internal leakage after endovascular repair, while the embolization of inferior mesenteric artery may be performed through the meandering mesenteric artery. The role of meandering mesenteric arteries in vascular surgery needs further study.

Comparative transcriptome analysis reveals physiological responses in liver tissues of Epinephelus coioides under acute hypoxia stress

Hypoxia is a common stressor for aquatic animals, including Epinephelus coioides, with a considerable impact on sustainable aquaculture. E. coioides is a widely consumed fish in China owing to its high nutritious value and taste. However, water hypoxia caused by high density culture process has become a great threat to E. coioides culture, and its response to hypoxia stress has not been discussed before. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the response of E. coioides to acute hypoxia using transcriptomic techniques. To this end, RNA sequencing was performed on the liver tissues of fish exposed to normoxic and hypoxic conditions for 1 h. The results presented 503 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the liver tissue of fish exposed to hypoxic condition compared with those in the normoxic group. Enrichment analysis using the Gene Ontology database showed that the DEGs were mainly enriched for functions related to cell apoptosis signaling pathways, insulin resistance, antioxidant enzymes, and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis signaling pathways. KEGG enrichment analysis showed that HIF-1, PI3K-AKT, IL-17, NF-kappa B, and MAPK signaling pathways were significantly enriched by the DEGs. The DEGs were mainly involved in immune response, inflammatory response, cell apoptosis regulation, energy metabolism, and substance metabolism. Additionally, the hypoxia response in E. coioides was mainly regulated via the PI3K-AKT-HIF-1 signaling axis. Overall, the findings of this study contribute to the understanding of hypoxia stress response in E. coioides, and provides target genes for breeding hypoxia-tolerant Epinephelus spp.

[Periodontitis and systemic diseases: an evidence-based interrelationship and treatment strategies for periodontitis with systemic diseases]

Periodontitis is a common chronic infectious disease, so as to be the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Numerous studies have confirmed the interrelationship between periodontitis and systemic diseases. However, evidence-based reviews reporting the interrelationship between them and treatment strategies for periodontitis with systemic diseases were still absent currently. Therefore, based on evidence-based medical researches in recent years, this article will summarize the interrelationship between periodontitis and systemic diseases, and briefly state the treatment strategies for periodontitis with systemic diseases.

In Situ Construction of Bronze/Anatase TiO2 Homogeneous Heterojunctions and Their Photocatalytic Performances

Photocatalytic degradation is one of the most promising emerging technologies for environmental pollution control. However, the preparation of efficient, low-cost photocatalysts still faces many challenges. TiO2 is a widely available and inexpensive photocatalyst material, but improving its catalytic degradation performance has posed a significant challenge due to its shortcomings, such as the easy recombination of its photogenerated electron-hole pairs and its difficulty in absorbing visible light. The construction of homogeneous heterojunctions is an effective means to enhance the photocatalytic performances of photocatalysts. In this study, a TiO2(B)/TiO2(A) homogeneous heterojunction composite photocatalyst (with B and A denoting bronze and anatase phases, respectively) was successfully constructed in situ. Although the construction of homogeneous heterojunctions did not improve the light absorption performance of the material, its photocatalytic degradation performance was substantially enhanced. This was due to the suppression of the recombination of photogenerated electron-hole pairs and the enhancement of the carrier mobility. The photocatalytic ability of the TiO2(B)/TiO2(A) homogeneous heterojunction composite photocatalyst was up to three times higher than that of raw TiO2 (pure anatase TiO2).

[Expression of glucocorticoid receptor in prostate cancer and its clinical significance]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expression of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) in the PCa tissue and its correlation with the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of PCa.

METHODS

Using immunohistochemical staining, we determined the expression of GR in the PCa tissue and analyzed its correlation with the clininicopathological features and prognosis of the malignancy.

RESULTS

The positive expression of GR in the PCa tissue was 64%, of which the strongly positive rate was 34.7%. The GR expression was positively correlated with preoperative androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) (χ2 = 22.307, P < 0.01), Gleason grades (χ2 = 16.534, P = 0.002) and clinical stages of the tumor (χ2 = 9.969, P = 0.041). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the GR expression was correlated not with the overall survival (P = 0.156), but with the PSA progression-free survival rate of the PCa patients (P = 0.042), with a shorter PSA progression-free survival time in those with a higher GR expression. Multivariate COX regression analysis revealed that the expression of GR was not an independent prognostic factor for PSA progression-free survival of the PCa patients.

CONCLUSION

The expression of GR is related with preoperative ADT, and closely with the biological behavior of the malignancy and treatment resistance of the patients. GR is expected to be a new effective therapeutic target and a prognostic biomarker for PCa.

[Transient spontaneous regression of pulmonary lymphoma: two case report and review of the literature]

Objective: To investigate the clinical features and pathogenesis of spontaneous regression of lymphoma involving the respiratory system. Methods: Two cases of pulmonary lymphoma which regressed spontaneously were reported. Literatures with"spontaneous regression, lymphoma""spontaneous remission, lymphoma"published before February 2020 were searched in Wanfang, CNKI and Pubmed database. And cases with respiratory system involvement of lymphoma which regressed spontaneously were analyzed. A total of 22 cases were finally retrieved. There were 6 males and 16 females, with an average age of (62.5±16.8) years. Results: Common symptoms included dyspnea, cough, expectoration, fever and weakness. Imaging examination showed that any parts in respiratory system could be involved. The proportion of invasive and indolent lymphomas was approximately similar. The time interval between diagnosis of lymphoma and first sign of spontaneous regression of the disease was from 2 weeks to 1 year. Spontaneous regression of the disease could sustain from 50 days to 60 months. Moreover, 78.6% of patients achieved complete remission in their courses of treatment, and some patients showed wax and wane phenomena. Conclusions: Spontaneous regression of lymphoma may occur in any part of the respiratory system. When a patient exhibits spontaneous regression of pulmonary lesions, lymphoma should be considered in the differential diagnoses. Pathology study is needed to achieve a definitive diagnosis. Misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis related to empirical treatment of antibiotics and corticosteroid should be avoided.

Novel dynamic enhanced robust principal subspace discriminant analysis for high-dimensional process fault diagnosis with industrial applications

Since the data are often polluted by numerous measured noise or outliers, traditional subspace discriminant analysis is difficult to extract optimal diagnostic information. To alleviate the impact of the problem, a robust principal subspace discriminant analysis algorithm for fault diagnosis is designed. On the premise of decreasing the impact of redundant information, the optimal latent features can be calculated. Specifically, in the algorithm, dual constraints of the weighted principal subspace center and l_2,1-norm are introduced into the objective function to suppress outliers and noise. Besides, considering that the current changes of the data in a dynamic process rely on past observations, merely analyzing the current data may lead to an incorrect interpretation of the mechanism model, especially in the presence of similar variable data under the two different conditions. Therefore, based on the robust principal subspace discriminant analysis, we further develop its dynamic enhanced version. The dynamic enhanced method utilizes the dynamic augmented matrix to enhance the latent features of historical data into current shifted features, so as to enlarge the difference between similar modes. Finally, the experimental results arranged on the Tennessee Eastman process and a commercial multi-phase flow process demonstrate that the proposed method has advanced diagnostic performance and satisfactory convergence speed.

Modified canonical variate analysis based on dynamic kernel decomposition for dynamic nonlinear process quality monitoring

It is crucial to adopt an efficient process monitoring technique that ensures process operation safety and improves product quality. Toward this endeavor, a modified canonical variate analysis based on dynamic kernel decomposition (DKDCVA) approach is proposed for dynamic nonlinear process quality monitoring. Different from traditional canonical variate analysis and its expansive kernel methods, the chief intention of the our proposed method is to establish a partial-correlation nonlinear model between input dynamic kernel latent variables and output variables, and ensures the extracted feature information can be maximized. More specifically, the dynamic nonlinear model is orthogonally decomposed to obtain quality-related and independent subspace by singular value decomposition. From the perspective of quality monitoring, Hankel matrices of past and future vectors of quality-related subspace are derived in detail, and corresponding statistical metrics are constructed. Furthermore, given the existence of non-Gaussian process variables, kernel density estimation evaluates the upper control limit instead of traditional control limits. Finally, the experimental results conducted on a simple numerical example, the Tennessee Eastman process and the hot strip mill process indicate that the DKDCVA approach can be preferable to monitor abnormal operation for the dynamic nonlinear process.

[Clinical features of 2019 novel coronavirus pneumonia in the early stage from a fever clinic in Beijing]

Objective: To summarize and analyze the clinical and imaging characteristics of patients with 2019 novel coronavirus pneumonia in the early stage in Beijing. Methods: A retrospective analysis of clinical and imaging data of 9 patients with 2019 novel coronavirus infection diagnosed in one fever clinicic in Beijing from January 18, 2020 to February 3, 2020. Results: 5 male and 4 female was included in those 9 patients, whose median age was 36 years, and the age range from 15 to 49 years. 8 of these patients had no underlying disease and one suffered from diabetes. 7 patients had a history of travel to Wuhan City or Hubei Province, and one patient was a medical staff. Two family clustered was found. The incubation period was 1 to 6 days. The clinical manifestations were fever in 8 cases (8/9) , dry cough in 5 cases (5/9) , pharyngalgia in 4 cases (4/9) , fatigue in 4 cases (4/9) , body soreness in 4 cases (4/9) , and blocked or watery nose in 1 case (1/9) . Six patients (6/9) had abnormal cell peripheral blood, of which 3 (3/9) had an increased monocyte count, 2 (2/9) had a reduced lymphocyte, and 1 (1/9) had an increased leukocyte count, while the 3 patients had normal cell blood routines. The median of CRP was 16.3 mg/L, including 5 patients with slightly elevated (5/9) , 4 patients with normal values (4/9) . the results of procalcitonin test were negative in5 patients. Three patients were examined by chest X-ray examination, one of which was normal, one case showed infiltrates of right upper lung, and another showed in right lower lung. All patients underwent chest HRCT. And 7 cases (7/9) showed multiple ground glass exudation, including 5 cases (5/7) involved bilateral lungs, 2 cases (2/7) involved unilateral lung, 3 cases (3/7) with patchy consolidation, and 2 cases (2/9) showed no abnormality. Conclusions: The patents with 2019 novel coronavirus pneumonia in this study generally have an epidemiological history. The clinical manifestations are fever and cough. Peripheral white blood cell counts were most normal And PCT were all negative. Chest HRCT manifested as multiple ground-glass opacities with partly consolidation. Some patients had normal chest radiographs but HRCT showed pneumonia. Some patients had no pneumonia on chest HRCT.

[Clinical features of 2019 novel coronavirus pneumonia in the early stage from a fever clinic in Beijing]

Objective: To summarize and analyze the clinical and imaging characteristics of patients with 2019 novel coronavirus pneumonia in the early stage in Beijing. Methods: A retrospective analysis of clinical and imaging data of 9 patients with 2019 novel coronavirus infection diagnosed in one fever clinicic in Beijing from January 18, 2020 to February 3, 2020. Results: 5 male and 4 female was included in those 9 patients, whose median age was 36 years, and the age range from 15 to 49 years. 8 of these patients had no underlying disease and one suffered from diabetes. 7 patients had a history of travel to Wuhan City or Hubei Province, and one patient was a medical staff. Two family clustered was found. The incubation period was 1 to 6 days. The clinical manifestations were fever in 8 cases (8/9) , dry cough in 5 cases (5/9) , pharyngalgia in 4 cases (4/9) , fatigue in 4 cases (4/9) , body soreness in 4 cases (4/9) , and blocked or watery nose in 1 case (1/9) . Six patients (6/9) had abnormal cell peripheral blood, of which 3 (3/9) had an increased monocyte count, 2 (2/9) had a reduced lymphocyte , and 1 (1/9) had an increased leukocyte count, while the 3 patients had normal cell blood routines. The median of CRP was 16.3 mg/L, including 5 patients with slightly elevated (5/9) , 4 patients with normal values (4/9) . the results of procalcitonin test were negative in5 patients. Three patients were examined by chest X-ray examination, one of which was normal, one case showed infiltrates of right upper lung, and another showed in right lower lung. All patients underwent chest HRCT. And 7 cases (7/9) showed multiple ground glass exudation, including 5 cases (5/7) involved bilateral lungs, 2 cases (2/7) involved unilateral lung, 3 cases (3/7) with patchy consolidation, and 2 cases (2/9) showed no abnormality. Conclusions: The patents with 2019 novel coronavirus pneumonia in this study generally have an epidemiological history. The clinical manifestations are fever and cough. Peripheral white blood cell counts were most normal And PCT were all negative. Chest HRCT manifested as multiple ground-glass opacities with partly consolidation. Some patients had normal chest radiographs but HRCT showed pneumonia. Some patients had no pneumonia on chest HRCT.

Activities of key enzymes in the C4 pathway and anatomy of sugarcane infected by Leifsonia xyli subsp. xyli

AIMS

Ratoon stunting disease caused by Leifsonia xyli subsp. xyli (Lxx) is a bacterial disease that has plagued sugarcane-planting countries for a long time. This study mainly analysed Lxx localization and its effects on sugarcane leaf.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Badila were inocultated by bacteria of Lxx. It was noted that the number of Lxx cells were rapidly enriched in sugarcane leaves from the 150th to the 210th days of post inoculation (dpi). Lxx infection disrupted the integrity of vascular bundle sheath cells (BSC) in the 'Kranz anatomy' of leaves, resulting in irregular accumulation of starch in vascular BSC of leaves. In situ PCR showed that the Lxx localized in the xylem vessels, mesophyll cell (MC) and BSC as described before in sugarcane leaf, a new niche within the host tissues in the phloem of sugarcane stem. The gene expression and activities of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC), pyruvate, orthophosphate dikinase (PPDK) and NADP-malic enzyme (NADP-ME) enzymes were lower in Lxx-inoculated sugarcane plants as compared to the MI group.

CONCLUSION

Lxx infection not only disrupted the structure of vascular BSC in the C4 'Kranz anatomy' of sugarcane leaves, but also affected the activities and gene expression of the key enzymes PEPC, PPDK and NADP-ME in the C4 cycle of sugarcane suggesting a reduction in CO₂ fixation.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The effect of Leifsonia xyli subsp. xyli (Lxx) infection on the photosynthetic physiology of sugarcane is currently limited to the evaluation of photosynthetic parameters. This study assessed the impact of Lxx infection on the mechanism of C4 cycle CO₂ fixation and to accompanying plant anatomy.

Development of a Blocking Primer to Inhibit the PCR Amplification of the 18S rDNA Sequences of Litopenaeus vannamei and Its Efficacy in Crassostrea hongkongensis

Diversity analyses of the eukaryotic microorganisms in the gut of marine animals is hampered by the presence of host DNA in the samples. PCR amplification of rRNA genes of eukaryotic microorganisms is inefficient with universal primers targeting 18S rRNA gene when the host DNA is dominant. In this study, we designed several blocking primers to inhibit PCR amplification of rRNA genes of the shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei, and tested their efficacy on the oyster Crassostrea hongkongensis. We first compared the intensity of PCR product bands obtained with and without the blocking primers. Then, one primer was selected for further verification using high-throughput sequencing. Our results showed that X-BP2-DPO was the most effective blocking primer in suppressing the host 18S amplification compared to nine other candidates. The inhibition rate was 99% for the amplification of shrimp rDNA, and 17% for the amplification of oyster rDNA. The concentration of the blocking primer in the PCR mixture was an important factor to be considered in the experimental design. The development of blocking primers provided a valid method to study the composition and characteristics of eukaryotic microorganisms in shrimp gut for a better understanding of its diets.

[A major histocompatibility complex class Ⅱ deficiency case report and literature review]

OBJECTIVE

To summarize and report the clinical characteristics and laboratory results of a case and those reported in literature with MHC class Ⅱ deficiency.

METHOD

The clinical features, laboratory results and gene mutation analysis of an infant with MHC class Ⅱ deficiency, who was diagnosed and treated in Peking Union Medical College Hospital since December 2013, were retrospectively analyzed."Major histocompatibility complex class Ⅱ deficiency"or"bare lymphocyte syndrome"were used as keywords in order to retrieve reports from CNKI (from its establishment to October 2015) and Wanfang Database (from its establishment to October 2015), PubMed Database (from its establishment to October 2015) was searched. The characteristics, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis were summarized by reviewing related articles.

RESULT

The patient was a 8-month-old boy. Since the fourth month of life, he started to have repeated fever, susceptible to a variety of pathogens, immune hemolytic anemia, severe malnutrition, and finally diagnosed as MHC class Ⅱ deficiency disease when he was 20-month-old.No related reports were retrieved from CNKI and Wanfang database, there were 20 articles and 179 patients were reported worldwide in the past 10 years. Patients exhibit an extreme vulnerability to infections(resptratory infection(82%, 146/178), inpection of gastroin testinal(76%, 135/178)). The common laboratory examinations showed hypogammaglobulinemia, CD4(+) lymphopenia(93%, 107/115) etc. Diagnosis relies on the flow-cytometric analysis and genetic analysis.

CONCLUSION

It is considered necessary for patients with young onset age, manifestation of clinically opportunistic infection as immune deficient disease, including the MHC class Ⅱ deficiency disease, especially long-term diarrhea, poor development and cryptosporidium infection. This disease could coexist with autoimmune disorders.

Characterization and Antibacterial Activity of Oil-In-Water Nano-Emulsion Formulation Against Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus

Nano-emulsion is a promising delivery system for increasing pesticide use and enhancing the therapeutic efficiency against pathogens. The pathogen Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (Las) that causes destructive citrus huanglongbing (HLB) resides in citrus phloem, which makes it difficult to treat with chemicals. Based on various physiochemical characteristics of oils, surfactants, and organic solvents, an oil-in-water (O/W) nano-emulsion formulation was developed and optimized to combat citrus HLB. The nano-emulsion was formulated through a spontaneous emulsification method for efficient delivery of ampicillin into the citrus phloem using bark application. The nano-emulsion that was prepared from Cremophor EL (viscous oil), acetone (water miscibility organic solvent), and Span 80/Tween 80 (surfactant) formed a small droplet size (17.33 ± 0.52 nm) and exhibited an improved absorption rate. Peak concentration was detected at 2 days posttreatment and the maximum concentration (C_max) and relative bioavailability (RBA) of ampicillin in HLB-affected citrus were 71.86 ± 35.38 ng/g and 267.25% ± 44.1%, respectively. The peak concentration of Amp appeared at 6 days posttreatment in the citrus trees that were treated with Amp alone and their C_max and RBA were 56.44 ± 32.59 ng/g and 100%, respectively. The same nano-emulsion was used to deliver five different antimicrobials to control citrus HLB through bark application. We found that the droplet size of the antimicrobials in the nano-emulsion was significantly reduced and the nano-emulsion also enhanced the therapeutic efficiency of validoxylamine A alone and in combination with actidione as well as sulfadimoethoxine sodium against Las. Therefore, this study provides an efficient bark application nano-emulsion formulation for citrus HLB control.

Identification and differential expression of microRNAs in the ovaries of pigs (Sus scrofa) with high and low litter sizes

Litter size affects profitability in the swine industry. Mammalian ovaries play important roles during reproduction, including ovulation and hormone secretion, which are tightly regulated by specific microRNAs (miRNAs). In this study, we investigated the effects of specific miRNAs on porcine litter size. We compared the ovarian miRNAs of Yorkshire pigs with high (YH) and low (YL) litter sizes using Solexa sequencing technology. We identified 327 and 320 miRNAs in the ovaries of YH and YL pigs respectively. A total of 297 miRNAs were co-expressed; 30 and 23 miRNAs respectively were specifically expressed in the two libraries. A total of 83 novel miRNAs were predicted; 37 specific miRNAs were obtained, of which 21 miRNAs were upregulated and 16 miRNAs were downregulated in YH compared with YL. Additionally, 19 628 and 19 250 target genes were predicted in the two libraries respectively. The results revealed that specific miRNAs (i.e., miR-224, miR-99a, let-7c, miR-181c, miR-214 and miR-21) may affect porcine litter size. The results of this study will help in gaining understanding of the role of miRNAs in porcine litter size regulation.

[Follistatin-like 1-engineered mesenchymal stem cells prevent myocardial ischemic reperfusion injury]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of follistatin-like protein 1 (FSTL1) on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs)-mediated cardioprotection during myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury.

METHODS

Rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were isolated by whole bone marrow adherence method in vitro. A total of 60 Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: control group, ischemic /reperfusion injury (IRI) group, ischemia/reperfusion injury group treated with natural BM-MSCs (IRI+ MSC group), ischemia/reperfusion injury group treated with BM-MSCs which did not contain FSTL1 (IRI+ MSC FSTL1 siRNA group). Survival analysis was used to analyze survival time of rats, besides, expression of FSTL1 was detected by Western blotting. Myocardial pathological changes were detected by Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE) staining. Terminal-deoxynucleoitidyl transferase mediated nick end labeling (TUNEL) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to determine the associated biomarkers and apoptosis 7 days after operation.

RESULTS

Compared with IRI group, rats in IRI+ MSC group had a higher survival rate and lived longer. Meanwhile, IRI+ MSC group had higher FSTL1 expression in blood and myocardial tissues than IRI group. Control group showed significantly lower apoptosis rate of myocardial cells[(1.4±0.1)% vs (29.8±4.5)%, P<0.05], less histological changes and infarction areas (0 vs 24.48±4.27, P<0.05) than IRI group. Compared with IRI group, IRI+ MSC group had an improvement of apoptosis rate[(4.2±0.3)% vs (29.8±4.5)%, P<0.05], less histological injury and infarction areas (15.12±3.82 vs 24.48±4.27, P<0.01). IRI+ MSC group had lower expression of LDH, MDA, CK and higher expression of SOD than IRI group (P<0.05). However, IRI+ MSC FSTL1 siRNA group showed weaker protection of myocardial cells than IRI+ MSC group after knockdown of FSTL1 (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

FSTL1, which was secreted by BM-MSCs, plays a protective role in myocardial IRI.

Zinc treatment increases the titre of 'Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus' in huanglongbing-affected citrus plants while affecting the bacterial microbiomes

AIMS

Huanglongbing (HLB)-affected citrus often display zinc deficiency symptoms. In this study, supplemental zinc was applied to citrus to determine its effect on Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (Las) titre, HLB symptoms, and leaf microbiome.

METHODS AND RESULTS

HLB-affected citrus were treated with various amounts of zinc. The treatments promoted Las growth and affected microbiomes in citrus leaves. Phylochip(™) -based results indicated that 5475 of over 50 000 known Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) in 52 phyla were detected in the midribs of HLB-affected citrus, of which Proteobacteria was the most abundant, followed by Firmicutes and Actinobacteria. In comparison, the microbiomes of zinc-treated diseased plants had overall more OTUs with higher amounts of Proteobacteria, but decreased percentages of Firmicutes and Actinobacteria. In addition, more OTUs of siderophore-producing bacteria were present. Only zinc-sensitive Staphylococcaceae had higher OTU's in the diseased plants without zinc treatments.

CONCLUSIONS

Although HLB-affected citrus appear zinc deficient, zinc amendments increased the pathogen levels and shifted the microbiome.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

HLB is currently the most devastating disease of citrus worldwide. Zinc is often applied to HLB-affected citrus due to zinc deficiency symptoms. This study provided new insights into the potential effects of zinc on HLB and the microbial ecology of citrus.

Neurobehavioural abnormalities induced by repeated exposure of neonatal rats to sevoflurane can be aggravated by social isolation and enrichment deprivation initiated after exposure to the anaesthetic

BACKGROUND

We tested the hypothesis that developmental effects of repeated neonatal exposure to sevoflurane in rats are exacerbated by stressful experiences received later in life.

METHODS

Sprague-Dawley male rats received sequential exposures to 3% sevoflurane for two h on postnatal days (P) six, seven, and eight. After weaning at P21, rats were housed either in pairs in an enriched environment (EE) or singly in an enrichment-deprived environment (an adverse environment, AE). The hippocampal concentrations of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and synaptic markers were assessed at P8 and P53. The dentate gyrus neural progenitor proliferation was evaluated at P11 and P53 after administration of bromodeoyuridine (BrdU) at P8 to P10 and at P22 to P27, respectively. Neurobehavioural evaluations were performed at P49 to P53.

RESULTS

Repeated sevoflurane exposure acutely reduced concentrations of BDNF, synaptic markers and neural progenitor proliferation. The sevoflurane group housed in the AE conditions (sevoflurane+AE) had decreased concentrations of BDNF and synaptic markers, and survival of new granule cells and impaired cognitive function compared with the control+AE, control+EE, and sevoflurane+EE groups. The neurobehavioural parameters in the sevoflurane+EE and control+EE groups were similar.

CONCLUSIONS

Neurocognitive abnormalities induced by repeated neonatal exposure to sevoflurane can be aggravated by stressful conditions such as social isolation and enrichment deprivation.

Multi-modulus algorithm based on global artificial fish swarm intelligent optimization of DNA encoding sequences

Aimed to address the defects of the large mean square error (MSE), and the slow convergence speed in equalizing the multi-modulus signals of the constant modulus algorithm (CMA), a multi-modulus algorithm (MMA) based on global artificial fish swarm (GAFS) intelligent optimization of DNA encoding sequences (GAFS-DNA-MMA) was proposed. To improve the convergence rate and reduce the MSE, this proposed algorithm adopted an encoding method based on DNA nucleotide chains to provide a possible solution to the problem. Furthermore, the GAFS algorithm, with its fast convergence and global search ability, was used to find the best sequence. The real and imaginary parts of the initial optimal weight vector of MMA were obtained through DNA coding of the best sequence. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm has a faster convergence speed and smaller MSE in comparison with the CMA, the MMA, and the AFS-DNA-MMA.

Functional and association studies of the cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) gene in a Wannan Black pig model

Some polymorphisms of the human CETP gene are causally and significantly associated with serum lipids levels; however, the information regarding this gene in pigs is sparse. To evaluate the effects of CETP on blood lipid traits and fat deposition in pig, porcine CETP tissue expression patterns were observed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) first. High expression was detected in liver, spleen, gluteus medius (GM) muscle and backfat. A de novo polymorphism (AF333037:g.795C>T) in the intron 1 region of porcine CETP was identified. This polymorphism was further genotyped by direct sequencing of the PCR products of 390 Wannan Black pigs, a Chinese native breed population. Association analyses at 45 and 300 days of age revealed highly significant associations between CETP genotypes and serum lipid traits. Furthermore, this polymorphism was proved to be associated with differences in liver CETP mRNA levels: pigs at 300 days of age with the TT genotype had higher levels than did those with other genotypes (P = 0.021). Additionally, analysis at 300 days of age showed that GM CETP mRNA expression correlated positively with serum lipids levels as well as with carcass backfat thickness and intramuscular fat content in GM. These results indicate that CETP is involved in serum, adipose and muscle lipid metabolism in pigs. The mechanisms underlying such relationships and their functional implications are worthy of further research.

Molecular cloning, characterization and expression analysis of a Doublesex gene from Daphnia carinata (Crustacea: Cladocera) during different reproductive stages

To better understand the reproductive transformation mechanism of Daphnia carinata, a Doublesex (Dsx) gene was cloned based on rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE), and was designated DapcaDsx2. Next, we compared similarities and assumed homology based on deduced amino acid sequences. It showed 97.52, 87.94, and 85.11% identity to orthologous genes in D. magna, D. pulex, and D. galeata respectively. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that DapcaDsx2 clustered in the same class, and was evolutionarily more distant to sequences from other species. qRT-PCR showed that DapcaDsx2 was most abundantly expressed during sexual reproduction (P < 0.05). Using digoxigenin-labeled RNA probes, we studied DapcaDsx2 expression in parthenogenetic and sexual females by whole-mount in situ hybridization. The results revealed that DapcaDsx2 was mainly expressed in the second antennae and several sites of the ventral carapace, whereas higher expression levels were found in sexual than in parthenogenetic females. This suggests that the DapcaDsx2 gene is involved in switching modes of reproduction and in sexual differentiation.

Silencing ECHS1 attenuates the proliferation and induces the autophagy of hepatocellular carcinoma via impairing cell metabolism and activating AMPK

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the most common cancers in the world with a low survival rate. Our previous study showed Short chain enoyl-CoA hydratase (ECHS1) could bind to HBsAg (HBs) and that ECHS1's localization in mitochondria induced HepG2 cell apoptosis. However, the role of the ECHS1 in energy metabolism and autophagy during hepatocellular carcinoma development remains undefined. We aimed to determine what ECHS1 does to energy metabolism and its effects on HCC progression. We performed CCK-8, EdU assays in hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines (HepG2 and HuH7) with stable ECHS1 knock-down. ATP and NADP+/NADPH levels were measured using an colorimetric assay. Our data demonstrated that ECHS1 silencing inhibited cell proliferation and induced autophagy. ECHS1 knockdown did not increase fatty acid synthesis, but decreased cellular ATP. This resulted in AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation and induced HCC cell autophagy. Our results showed that silencing ECHS1 to attenuate proliferation and induce autophagy may make it a novel cancer therapy target.

Effect of berberine on visceral hypersensitivity in a rat model of irritable bowel syndrome

AIM: To evaluate the effect of berberine (BBR) on visceral hypersensitivity in a rat model of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and explore the underlying mechanism.

METHODS: IBS was induced in rats by maternal separation. After berberine intervention, visceral sensitivity was evaluated using the score of abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR). Defecation parameters were evaluated by restraint stress procedure. The levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in the colon and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in plasma were determined by ELISA.

RESULTS: Compared with normal control rats, the score of AWR, defecation parameters, and levels of 5-HT and IL-6 were significantly increased in rats treated with normal saline, pinaverium or BBR (P < 0.05); however, these indexes were significantly lower in the pinaverium and BBR groups than in the normal saline group (P < 0.05), and in the BBR group than in the pinaverium group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: BBR has a protective effect on visceral hypersensitivity in rats with IBS via mechanisms possibly related to IL-6 and 5-HT.

First Report of Myrothecium roridum Causing Leaf Spot of Anubias barteri var. nana in Mainland China

Anubias barteri var. nana (belonging to family Araceae) is one of the most popular ornamental plants for aquaria. It has slow growth and small attractive ornamental leaves. It originated from West Africa, was first described in 1860 by Heinrich Wilhelm Schott (1), and is now commercially planted widely in southern China. A new disease of A. barteri var. nana was observed on leaves. Approximately 30% of the plants in an ornamental nursery in Baiyun district, Gaungzhou, China (113°22'45.15″ E, 23°23'41.15″ N) in July 2013 were found to be infected. The pathogen caused necrotic spots that progressed to form holes on leaves of the infected plants, negatively affecting their ornamental market value. Eventually the diseased plant died. White fungal fruiting bodies and black sporodochia were observed on the surfaces of the symptomatic leaves. A single-spore isolate (myr5) was obtained from the concentric lesions and cultured on potato dextrose agar (PDA). The floccose fungal colonies were white to buff, and black conidiomata were often visible on the surface after 25 days of incubation. The conidia had rounded ends and the average size of conidia was 5.98 ± 0.15 × 2.24 ± 0.08 μm. The rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of isolate myr5 was amplified by PCR using ITS1 and ITS4 primer pairs. The amplified product was sequenced and deposited in GenBank (Accession No. KJ572115) and showed 99% identity to Myrothecium roridum isolates BBA 71015 (AJ302001) and BBA 67679 (AJ301995) (unpublished), and 100% identity to the isolate myr2-2 from Dieffenbachia picta 'Camilla' in Taiwan (2). On the basis of morphological and molecular characterization, the fungus causing leaf spot on A. barteri var. nana plants was identified as M. roridum Tode ex Fr (2,3). To confirm the etiology of the disease, Koch's postulates was performed in a greenhouse (28 ± 2°C) using 3-day-old cultures of isolate myr5 and fungal spore suspensions of 1 × 10⁵ conidia ml^-1 containing 0.05% of Tween 20. Sixteen healthy leaves, two each from eight plants, were infiltrated on two different parts close to the midribs with 100 μl of the fungal spore using needleless syringes. Water infiltration was used as the control treatment. Water-soaked brown lesions appeared on leaves 7 days after inoculation, followed by the development of dark concentric rings within the necrotic areas on the surface of the inoculated leaves after 15 days of incubation. These symptoms were similar to those in the naturally infected aquarium plants. No symptoms were observed on any of the water micro-infiltrated plants. The fungus was re-isolated from the inoculated plants, but not from control plants. To our knowledge, this is the first report of Myrothecium leaf spot caused by M. roridum on A. barteri var. nana in mainland China. References: (1) W. Crusio. Primitiae Africanae XII 79 (14):1-48, 1979. (2) C. F. Hong et al. Plant Dis. 97:1253, 2013. (3) M. Tulloch. Mycol. Pap. 130:1-42, 1972.

First Report of Phoma sp. Causing Twisting and Curling of Crown Leaves of Sugarcane in Mainland of China

Sugarcane is a major sugar and the leading energy crop worldwide and Guangxi is the largest sugarcane production area in China (2011 Sugar Annual China, www.gain.fas.usda.gov). During survey of sugarcane crops in September 2012 and June 2013, ~5 to 10% of sugarcane (cvs. FN-40 and ROC22) planted in Chongzuo and Laibing, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China, had twisted and curling symptoms of crown leaves similar to sugarcane Pokkah boeng disease (caused by Fusarium moniliforme Sheldon). The symptoms started appearing as yellowing on midribs and leaf margins that spread further to the entire leaf, along with twisting and curling of crown leaves. The symptomatic leaf tissues (5 × 5 mm) were surface-sterilized by 0.1% HgCl₂ solution for 30 s, followed by rinsing three times in sterile water, placed on potato dextrose agar (PDA), and then incubated in darkness at 28°C. After 3 days of incubation, the isolated fungal colony appeared as white villous, spherical, radial, and dense colorless mycelium from the top, while it was reddish-brown at the bottom and later became grayish. Chlamydospores were also observed with a diameter of 5 to 10 μm and were dark brown, unicellular, intercalary, and smooth. The binucleate hyphae were colorless and transparent. Pycnidia appeared on the colonies after 20 days, and were dark brown, subglobose, and 150 to 230 μm in diameter, and the conidia were ~3 to 7 × 2.5 to 6 μm, unicellular, colorless, and ovoid to oval. The fungal isolates from the symptomatic leaves were obtained and pathogenicity was evaluated. Conidial suspensions (10⁷ CFU/ml) of the single isolate from FN-40 were micro-injected into 20 sugarcane seedlings of cultivar FN-40. Another 20 seedlings were injected with water without conidia as control. The inoculated plants were grown in a growth chamber at 28°C with a 16-h photoperiod. Twisted and curly symptoms similar to the field appeared on the inoculated leaves at 10 days after inoculation, while the control leaves remained asymptomatic. The fungus was re-isolated and identified. Genomic DNA from the cultured fungal isolate was extracted with a modified Fungal DNA Midi Kit (Omega Bio-Tek, Inc., Norcross, GA), and amplified using fungus-conserved primer sequences (ITS1: 5'-TCCGTAGGTGAACCTGCGG-3' and ITS4: 5'-TCCTCCGCTTATTGATATGC-3'). The consensus rDNA-internal transcribed spacer sequence (GenBank Accession No. KC524502) was 100% identical with 97% coverage to the ITS sequence from Phoma sp. 3. TMS-2011 (HQ631000.1) in GenBank (3). The fungus Phoma sp. was identified on the basis of morphological characteristics (2,4) and the ITS sequence of rDNA (1,3). Disease caused by Phoma sp. has been reported earlier on sugarcane from Pakistan, Hawaii, and Taiwan, causing leaf blight and curling (2,4). However, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of Phoma sp. causing twisting and curling of crown leaves of sugarcane in mainland of China. References: (1) M. M. Aveskamp et al. Stud. Mycol. 65:1, 2010. (2) A. Sanguino and H. Tokeski. ISSCT Proc. 17:1555, 1980. (3) P. Shrestha et al. Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 77:5490, 2011. (4) Z. N. Wang. Rep. Taiwan Sugar Res. Inst. 129:1, 1980.

Three-dimensional visualization of rat brain microvasculature following permanent focal ischaemia by synchrotron radiation

OBJECTIVE

Identifying morphological changes that occur in microvessels under both normal and ischaemic conditions is crucial for understanding and treating stroke. However, conventional imaging techniques are not able to detect microvessels on a micron or sub-micron scale without angiography. In the present study, synchrotron radiation (SR)-based X-ray in-line phase contrast imaging (ILPCI) was used to acquire high-resolution and high-contrast images of rat brain tissues in both normal and ischaemic states.

METHODS

ILPCI was performed at the Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Shanghai, China, without the use of contrast agents. CT slices were reformatted and then converted into three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction images to analyse subtle details of the cerebral microvascular network.

RESULTS

By using ILPCI, brain vessels up to 11.8 μm in diameter were resolved. The number of cortical and penetrating arteries detected were found to undergo a remarkable decrease within the infarct area. 3 days after permanent ischaemia, vascular masses were also observed in the peripheral region of the infarcts.

CONCLUSION

SR-based ILPCI-CT can serve as a powerful tool to accurately visualize brain microvasculature. The morphological parameters of blood vessels in both CT slices and 3D reconstructions were determined, and this approach has great potential for providing an effective diagnosis and evaluation for rehabilitation therapy for stroke.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

In the absence of contrast agent, the 3D morphologies of the brain microvasculature in normal and stroke rats were obtained using SR-based ILPCI. SR imaging is a sensitive and promising method which can be used to explore primary brain function.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy for the management of irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder, reported to be found in 5%-20% of the general population. Its management accounts for up to 25% of a gastroenterologist’s workload in the outpatient department, and the main symptoms are abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits. Despite a great amount of available pharmacological treatments aimed at a wide variety of gastrointestinal and brain targets, many patients have not shown adequate symptom relief. In recent years, there has been increasing evidence to suggest that psychological treatments, in particular cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), are effective for the management of IBS. This review discusses CBT for the management of IBS. CBT has proved to be effective in alleviating the physical and psychological symptoms of IBS and has thus been recommended as a treatment option for the syndrome.

[Effects of nitrogen application rate on soil nitrate nitrogen accumulation under vegetable-paddy rice rotation system]

A 2-year field experiment of mustard-cabbage-early rice rotation was conducted to investigate the effects of nitrogen application on yield and accumulation of nitrate nitrogen in the soil. The results showed that the applications of 150 kg N x hm(-2) for mustard and cabbage respectively and 90 kg N x hm(-2) for early rice were the best economic application mode, which could increase the net profit by 0.2%-75.6% compared with other application modes. Nitrogen application rates were positively correlated with NO3(-)-N concentration in the soil and in the percolating water. The vegetable-paddy rice rotation decreased the surplus of nitrogen in the soil. The average soil NO3(-)-N concentration was 29.7 mg x kg(-1) under the rotation of mustard-cabbage-early rice, which was only 84.4% of that under the continuous cropping of mustard-cabbage. The average NO3(-)-N concentration in the percolating water under mustard-cabbage-early rice rotation was little different from that in basal soil. Therefore, with the optimum nitrogen application mode, the vegetable-paddy rice rotation could gain the best economic benefit while significantly decrease the accumulation of nitrate nitrogen in the soil to effectively control non-point source pollution of nitrogen from vegetable fields.

Antinociceptive effect of berberine on visceral hypersensitivity in rats

AIM: To assess the protective effect of berberine administration and the role of nitric oxide (NO) in visceral hypersensitivity.

METHODS: Fifty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to five groups. An inflammatory bowel disease model was induced in rats by intracolonic instillation of 1 mL 4% acetic acid at 8 cm proximal to the anus for 30 s and restraint stress. After subsidence of inflammation on day 7 of the experiment, the rats were subjected to rectal distension, performed by a balloon (6-Fr, 2 mm external diameter, disposable silicon balloon-urethral catheter for pediatric use) which was rapidly inflated with increasing volumes of prewarmed (37 °C) water (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8 and 1 mL) for 30 s at four-minute intervals, and then the abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR) and the level of fecal output were measured, respectively. AWR scores either 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4 were obtained by blinded observers. Rats had been pretreated with berberine or aminoguanidine (NO synthetase inhibitor) or berberine + aminoguanidine before measurement.

RESULTS: The rats in the placebo group showed a hypersensitive response to rectal distension (2.69 ± 0.08 vs 1.52 ± 0.08, P = 0.000) and defecated more frequently than those in the control group (5.0 ± 0.16 vs 0.44 ± 0.16, P = 0.000). Comparing the berberine with placebo group, the AWR scores were reduced for all distension volumes and were significant at 0.2-1 mL (1.90 ± 0.08 vs 2.69 ± 0.08, P = 0.000), while the numbers of hard pellets, soft pellets, formless stools, and total fecal output in the placebo group were significantly larger than in the berberine group (5.0 ± 0.16 vs 2.56 ± 0.16, P = 0.000). Administration of aminoguanidine or berberine + aminoguanidine before VH score measurement reversed the antinociceptive effect of berberine (2.52 ± 0.08 vs 1.90 ± 0.08, P = 0.000; 2.50 ± 0.08 vs 1.90 ± 0.08, P = 0.000). The numbers of hard pellets, soft pellets, formless stool, and total of fecal output in aminoguanidine group were significantly larger than the corresponding values in control group, berberine group, and berberine + aminoguanidine group (4.81 ± 0.16 vs 0.44 ± 0.16, P = 0.000; 4.81 ± 0.16 vs 2.56 ± 0.16, P = 0.000; 4.81 ± 0.16 vs 3.75 ± 0.16, P = 0.000). The berberine and berberine + aminoguanidine groups showed reduced defecation, but aminoguanidine alone did not reduce defecation (2.56 ± 0.16 vs 4.81 ± 0.16, P = 0.000; 3.75 ± 0.16 vs 4.81 ± 0.16, P = 0.000).

CONCLUSION: Berberine had an antinociceptive effect on visceral hypersensitivity, and NO might play a role in this effect.

Mast cell tryptase and asthma

Recent physiological and pharmacological studies have indicated the potential importance of tryptase, the major protein component in mast cells, in inflammatory diseases (especially asthma). Being released at inflammatory sites after the activation of mast cells, tryptase is capable of causing bronchohyperresponsiveness and infiltration of eosinophils, neutrophils, etc. in animal airways. The mechanisms by which tryptase causes bronchoconstriction involve probably the potentiation of other chemical mediators such as histamine, production of bradykinin via the hydrolysis of kininogen, and cleavage of the bronchodilating peptides VIP (vasoactive intestinal peptide) and PHM (peptide histidine-methionine). Tryptase has also been found to be a potent mitogen in vitro for airway smooth muscle cells and epithelial cells, implying its role in the hyperplasia of the asthmatic airways. The experimental data providing evidence for the above roles of tryptase are summarized in the present review, as well as the effects of tryptase inhibition in animal asthma models. The potential strategies for the development of anti-asthmatic agents based on the inhibition of tryptase are discussed.

The orphan receptor TR3 suppresses intestinal tumorigenesis in mice by downregulating Wnt signalling

AIMS

Wnt signalling is involved in cellular homeostasis and development. Dysregulation of the Wnt signalling pathway has been linked to colorectal cancer. The orphan nuclear receptor TR3 plays important roles in proliferation and apoptosis. In this study, we investigated how TR3 suppresses intestinal tumorigenesis by regulating Wnt signalling.

METHODS

Intestinal polyps were quantified in Apc(min/+), Apc(min/+)/TR3(-/-) and Apc(min/+)/villin-TR3 mice. Wnt signalling activity was evaluated by assessing β-galactosidase activity in a BAT-Gal reporter strain. The TR3 agonist cytosporone B was used to evaluate the role of TR3 in intestinal tumorigenesis. Crosstalk between TR3 and β-catenin/TCF4 was analysed by molecular methods in colorectal cancer cells. The phosphorylation of TR3 by glycogen synthase kinase (GSK) 3β and the correlation between GSK3β activity and TR3 phosphorylation were evaluated in clinical samples and colorectal cancer cells.

RESULTS

TR3 was found to significantly suppress Wnt signalling activity and the proliferation of intestinal epithelial cells. Apc(min/+)/TR3(-/-) mice developed more intestinal polyps than Apc(min/+)/TR3(+/+) mice, whereas either transgenic overexpression of TR3 in the intestine or treatment with cytosporone B in Apc(min/+) mice significantly decreased intestinal tumour number. Mechanistically, TR3 disrupted the association of β-catenin and TCF4 on chromatin and facilitated the recruitment of transcriptional co-repressors to the promoters of Wnt signalling target genes. However, TR3 was phosphorylated by GSK3β in most clinical colorectal cancers, which attenuated the inhibitory activity of TR3 towards Wnt signalling.

CONCLUSIONS

TR3 is a negative regulator of Wnt signalling and thus significantly suppresses intestinal tumorigenesis in Apc(min/+) mice. This inhibitory effect of TR3 may be paradoxically overcome through phosphorylation by GSK3β in clinical colorectal cancers.

Prognostic factors and treatment comparison in early-stage small cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix

Small cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix (SCCUC) is rare and its biologic behavior is aggressive. To analyze prognostic factors and determine optimal therapy in patients with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage IB1-IIA SCCUC, we retrospectively reviewed 96 patients (14 patients treated in our center and 82 patients identified by a search on PubMed) treated with radical surgery (SU), surgery plus adjuvant chemotherapy (SU+Chemo), or surgery plus adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy (SU+Chemo+RT) between 1990 and 2010. Of the 96 patients, 11 patients were treated with SU, 33 with SU+Chemo, and 52 with SU+Chemo+RT. The 5-year survival rate for the 96 patients was 45%. A total of 6% (2/32) of patients had local recurrence, 75% (24/32) had distant metastases, and 19% (6/32) had both. The 5-year survival rate in stage IB1 and IB2-IIA disease was 58 and 34%, respectively (P=0.049). For patients with and without lymph node metastases (LNM), survival was 33 and 60%, respectively (P=0.045). Patients with inner 1/3 stromal invasion had a better survival than those with deep stromal invasion (DSI) (100 vs. 34%, P=0.003). Survival was not significantly different in patients treated with the above three modalities, albeit treatment selection was related to LNM (P=0.000) and DSI (P=0.027). Thus, FIGO stage, LNM and DSI are significant predictors of survival. Adjuvant therapy after SU has not improved survival compared with surgery alone. Thus, newer multimodality therapy should be evaluated.

RXRalpha acts as a carrier for TR3 nuclear export in a 9-cis retinoic acid-dependent manner in gastric cancer cells

Retinoid X receptor (RXR) plays a crucial role in the cross talk between retinoid receptors and other hormone receptors including the orphan receptor TR3, forming different heterodimers that transduce diverse steroid/thyroid hormone signaling. Here we show that RXRalpha exhibits nucleocytoplasmic shuttling in MGC80-3 gastric cancer cells and that RXRalpha shuttling is energy-dependent through a nuclear pore complex (NPC)-mediated pathway for its import and an intact DNA binding domain-mediated pathway for its export. In the presence of its ligand 9-cis retinoic acid, RXRalpha was almost exclusively located in the cytoplasm. More importantly, we also show that RXRalpha acts as a carrier to assist translocation of TR3, which plays an important role in apoptosis. Both RXRalpha and TR3 colocalized in the nucleus; however, upon stimulation by 9-cis retinoic acid they cotranslocated to the cytoplasm and then localized in the mitochondria. TR3 export depends on RXRalpha, as in living cells GFP-TR3 alone did not result in export from the nucleus even in the presence of 9-cis retinoic acid, whereas GFP-TR3 cotransfected with RXRalpha was exported out of the nucleus in response to 9-cis retinoic acid. Moreover, specific reduction of RXRalpha levels caused by anti-sense RXRalpha abolished TR3 nuclear export. In contrast, specific knockdown of TR3 by antisense-TR3 or TR3-siRNA did not affect RXRalpha shuttling. These results indicate that RXRalpha is responsible for TR3 nucleocytoplasmic translocation, which is facilitated by the RXRalpha ligand 9-cis retinoic acid. In addition, mitochondrial TR3, but not RXRalpha, was critical for apoptosis, as TR3 mutants that were distributed in the mitochondria induced apoptosis in the presence or absence of 9-cis retinoic acid. These data reveal a novel aspect of RXRalpha function, in which it acts as a carrier for nucleocytoplasmic translocation of orphan receptors.

Degradation of retinoid X receptor α by TPA through proteasome pathway in gastric cancer cells

AIM: To investigate and determine the mechanism and signal pathway of tetradecanoylphorbol-1, 3-acetate (TPA) in degradation of RXRα.

METHODS: Gastric cancer cell line, BGC-823 was used in the experiments. The expression level of RXRα protein was detected by Western blot. Nuclear and cytoplasmic protein fractions were prepared through lysis of cell and centrifugation. Localization and translocation of RXRα were observed under laser-scanning confocal microscope through labeling specific anti-RXRα antibody and corresponding immunofluorescent antibody as secondary antibody. Different inhibitors were used as required.

RESULTS: In BGC-823 cells, RXRα was expressed in the nucleus. When cells were treated with TPA, expression of RXRα was repressed in a time-dependent and TPA-concentration-dependent manner. Meanwhile, translocation of RXRα from the nucleus to the cytoplasm occurred, also in a time-dependent manner. When cells were pre-incubated with proteasome inhibitor MG132 for 3 hrs, followed by TPA for another 12 hrs, TPA-induced RXRα degradation was inhibited. Further observation of RXRα translocation in the presence of MG132 showed that MG-132 could block TPA-induced RXRα redistribution. Conversely, when RXRα translocation was inhibited by LMB, an inhibitor for blocking protein export from the nucleus, TPA could not repress expression of RXRα.

CONCLUSION: TPA could induce the degradation of RXRα protein in BGC-823 cells, and this degradation is time- and TPA-concentration-dependent. Furthermore, the degradation of RXRα by TPA is via a proteasome pathway and associated with RXRα translocation from the nucleus to the cytoplasm.

Computational identification of promoters and first exons in the human genome

The identification of promoters and first exons has been one of the most difficult problems in gene-finding. We present a set of discriminant functions that can recognize structural and compositional features such as CpG islands, promoter regions and first splice-donor sites. We explain the implementation of the discriminant functions into a decision tree that constitutes a new program called FirstEF. By using different models to predict CpG-related and non-CpG-related first exons, we showed by cross-validation that the program could predict 86% of the first exons with 17% false positives. We also demonstrated the prediction accuracy of FirstEF at the genome level by applying it to the finished sequences of human chromosomes 21 and 22 as well as by comparing the predictions with the locations of the experimentally verified first exons. Finally, we present the analysis of the predicted first exons for all of the 24 chromosomes of the human genome.

Use of chromatin immunoprecipitation to clone novel E2F target promoters

We have taken a new approach to the identification of E2F-regulated promoters. After modification of a chromatin immunoprecipitation assay, we cloned nine chromatin fragments which represent both strong and weak in vivo E2F binding sites. Further characterization of three of the cloned fragments revealed that they are bound in vivo not only by E2Fs but also by members of the retinoblastoma tumor suppressor protein family and by RNA polymerase II, suggesting that these fragments represent promoters regulated by E2F transcription complexes. In fact, database analysis indicates that all three fragments correspond to genomic DNA located just upstream of start sites for previously identified mRNAs. One clone, ChET 4, corresponds to the promoter region for beclin 1, a candidate tumor suppressor protein. We demonstrate that another of the clones, ChET 8, is strongly bound by E2F family members in vivo but does not contain a consensus E2F binding site. However, this fragment functions as a promoter whose activity can be repressed by E2F1. Finally, we demonstrate that the ChET 9 promoter contains a consensus E2F binding site, can be activated by E2F1, and drives expression of an mRNA that is upregulated in colon and liver tumors. Interestingly, the characterized ChET promoters do not display regulation patterns typical of known E2F target genes in a U937 cell differentiation system. In summary, we have provided evidence that chromatin immunoprecipitation can be used to identify E2F-regulated promoters which contain both consensus and nonconsensus binding sites and have shown that not all E2F-regulated promoters show identical expression profiles.

Aberrant alternative splicing of thyroid hormone receptor in a TSH-secreting pituitary tumor is a mechanism for hormone resistance

Patients with TSH-secreting pituitary tumors (TSHomas) have high serum TSH levels despite elevated thyroid hormone levels. The mechanism for this defect in the negative regulation of TSH secretion is not known. We performed RT-PCR to detect mutations in TRbeta from a surgically resected TSHoma. Analyses of the RT-PCR products revealed a 135-bp deletion within the sixth exon that encodes the ligand-binding domain of TRbeta2. This deletion was caused by alternative splicing of TRbeta2 mRNA, as near-consensus splice sequences were found at the junction site and no deletion or mutations were detected in the tumoral genomic DNA. This TRbeta variant (TRbeta2spl) lacked thyroid hormone binding and had impaired T3-dependent negative regulation of both TSHbeta and glycoprotein hormone alpha-subunit genes in cotransfection studies. Furthermore, TRbeta2spl showed dominant negative activity against the wild-type TRbeta2. These findings strongly suggest that aberrant alternative splicing of TRbeta2 mRNA generated an abnormal TR protein that accounted for the defective negative regulation of TSH in the TSHoma. This is the first example of aberrant alternative splicing of a nuclear hormone receptor causing hormonal dysregulation. This novel posttranscriptional mechanism for generating abnormal receptors may occur in other hormone-resistant states or tumors in which no receptor mutation is detected in genomic DNA.