Knockdown of microRNA-103a-3p inhibits the malignancy of thyroid cancer cells through Hippo signaling pathway by upregulating LATS1

MicroRNA (miR)-103a-3p has been shown to be involved in the development and progression of several types of cancer. However, the role of miR-103a-3p in thyroid cancer remains unclear. This study investigated the effects of miR-103a-3p on the biological characteristics of thyroid cancer cells and related mechanisms. In the present study, we found that the expression of miR-103a-3p was increased in thyroid cancer tissues compared to that in non-cancerous tissues. Additionally, the expression of miR-103a-3p in thyroid cancer cell lines (TPC-1, SW579, BHT101, K1) was markedly higher than that in the human thyroid cell line (Nthy-ori3-1). Silencing of miR-103a-3p obviously inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion and promoted apoptosis of BHT101 cells. miR-103a-3p upregulation promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasion and inhibited apoptosis of K1 cells. Mechanistically, LATS1 was identified as a functional target of miR-103a-3p, and miR-103a-3p negatively regulated LATS1 expression. miR-103a-3p knockdown (or upregulation) partially reversed the effects of LATS1 knockdown (or overexpression) on proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion of thyroid cancer cells. LATS1 knockdown inhibited the phosphorylation of YAP in BHT101 cells and promoted the nuclear translocation of YAP. Whereas, miR-103a-3p downregulation reversed the inhibitory effect of LATS1 knockdown on the Hippo signaling pathway. Moreover, overexpression of LATS1 induced YAP phosphorylation in K1 cells and inhibits nuclear translocation of YAP, and the upregulation of miR-103a-3p reversed this effect. The knockdown of miR-103a-3p inhibited tumor growth and progression in vivo. Taken together, knockdown of miR-103a-3p inhibits proliferation, migration, and invasion and promotes apoptosis of thyroid cancer cells through the Hippo signaling pathway by upregulating LATS1.

[Classification of the types of pediatric posterior fossa brain tumors based on routine MRI using wavelet transformation analysis of whole tumor]

Objective: To evaluate the classification of the types of pediatric posterior fossa brain tumors based on routine MRI (T(1)WI, T(2)WI and ADC) using wavelet transformation analysis of whole tumor. Methods: MRI images of medulloblastoma (n=59), ependymoma (n=13) and pilocytic astrocytoma (n=27) confirmed by pathology before treatments in Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from January 2014 to February 2019 were enrolled in this retrospective study as well as the clinical data of age, gender and symptoms. Registration was performed among the three sequences and wavelet features of ROI were acquired. Afterwards, the top ten features were ranked and trained among groups by using random forest classifier. Finally, the results were compared and analyzed according to the classification. Results: The top ten contribution three sequences and wavelet features of ROI were acquired from the ADC sequence. The random forest classifier achieved 100% accuracy on training data and was validated best accuracy (86.8%) when combined of first and third wavelet features. The sensitivity was 100%, 94.8%, 76.9%, and the specificity was 97.6%, 88.0%, 98.8% respectively. Conclusions: Features based on wavelet transformation of ADC sequence of entire tumor can provide more quantitative information, which could provide help in the differential diagnosis of pediatric posterior fossa brain tumors. The optimum combination to distinguish three pediatric posterior fossa brain tumors is sixth and twelfth wavelet features of ADC sequence.

[Clinical application value of prognosis of nutrition index and apparent diffusion coefficient in patient with hepatocellular carcinoma underwent transarterial chemoembolization]

Objective: To explore clinical application value of prognostic nutrition index(PNI) and apparent diffusion coefficient(ADC) in treating hepatic arterial chemoembolization (TACE) of patients with hepatic cell carcinoma (HCC). Methods: A total of 77 patients with HHC of BCLC B were retrospectively analyzed in Dalian Medical University Affiliated Second Hospital who were diagnosed for the first time and received TACE treatment from October 2017 to December 2018, of whom 64 Males, 13 females, mean age was 54±13 years.At 1 month after surgery, TACE efficacy was evaluated according to revised solid tumor evaluation criteria (mRECIST), the enrolled patients were divided into TACE effective group (41 cases, 53.2%) and TACE ineffective group (36 cases, 46.8%) to compare ability of PNI and ability of ADC alone or in combination in evaluating efficacy of TACE and the relationship between these two groups. Results: Overall postoperative PNI of enrolled patients was decreased compared with preoperative PNI, 47.7±6.6 vs 48.3±5.9 (P<0.05), preoperative and postoperative PNI of TACE effective group were all higher than that of TACE ineffective group (49.9±6.0 vs 46.6±5.3, 50.6±5.4 vs 44.4±5.1,all P<0.05), there was no significant difference in PNI between the treatment groups (P>0.05). The value of ADC in postoperative tumor region increased compared with that in preoperative tumor region ((1.43±0.15) ×10(-3) vs (1.28±0.08) ×10(-3) mm(2)/s, P<0.05), the difference between postoperative tumor region ADC value and postoperative normal liver parenchyma had no statistical significance(P>0.05). Overall postoperative PNI and tumor region ADC value of enrolled patients had linear correlation (P<0.05).Threshold value of PNI and ADC value in preoperative prediction were 51.05 and 1.32×10(-3) mm(2)/s; postoperative evaluation threshold value were 50.11 and 1.41×10(-3) mm(2)/s.Postoperative combination of PNI and ADC had the highest value in evaluating TACE efficacy. Conclusions: TACE postoperative PNI and tumor region ADC are related. PNI and tumor region ADC could be used in predicting and evaluating TACE efficacy in HCC patients, combination of these two could further increase the efficiency.

[Brain alteration in neonates with congenital heart disease using apparent diffusion coefficient histograms]

Objective: To evaluate the value of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) histogram in neonatal brain alteration with congenital heart disease (CHD). Methods: MRIs of 60 neonates with CHD confirmed by echocardiography were retrospectively analyzed in Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from January 2012 to December 2016.Twenty-two MRIs of neonates with mild pneumonia or scalp hematoma who were suspicious of brain disease but normal MRI findings were enrolled as normal control.MRIcron and ImgJ softwares were used to acquire ADC histogram.The correlation between the gestational age and ADC histogram values were calculated respectively.Then t-test was used to analyze the differences of the histogram values and the diagnostic efficacy of different parameters was analyzed using the receiver operating characteristic curve. Results: The ADC values were significantly correlated with the gestational age (P<0.05). The 70th-90th ADC, skewness, kurtosis and variance were statistically significant (P<0.05). The area under the curve of the 90th ADC value was the largest at 0.698. Conclusions: The ADC histogram can quantify and objectively provide more diffusion information of brain tissue. It is a rapid and feasible quantitative method to identify brain changes in neonates with CHD.

Precision Measurement of the Boron to Carbon Flux Ratio in Cosmic Rays from 1.9 GV to 2.6 TV with the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station

Knowledge of the rigidity dependence of the boron to carbon flux ratio (B/C) is important in understanding the propagation of cosmic rays. The precise measurement of the B/C ratio from 1.9 GV to 2.6 TV, based on 2.3 million boron and 8.3 million carbon nuclei collected by AMS during the first 5 years of operation, is presented. The detailed variation with rigidity of the B/C spectral index is reported for the first time. The B/C ratio does not show any significant structures in contrast to many cosmic ray models that require such structures at high rigidities. Remarkably, above 65 GV, the B/C ratio is well described by a single power law R^{Δ} with index Δ=-0.333±0.014(fit)±0.005(syst), in good agreement with the Kolmogorov theory of turbulence which predicts Δ=-1/3 asymptotically.

Antiproton Flux, Antiproton-to-Proton Flux Ratio, and Properties of Elementary Particle Fluxes in Primary Cosmic Rays Measured with the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station

A precision measurement by AMS of the antiproton flux and the antiproton-to-proton flux ratio in primary cosmic rays in the absolute rigidity range from 1 to 450 GV is presented based on 3.49×10^{5} antiproton events and 2.42×10^{9} proton events. The fluxes and flux ratios of charged elementary particles in cosmic rays are also presented. In the absolute rigidity range ∼60 to ∼500  GV, the antiproton p[over ¯], proton p, and positron e^{+} fluxes are found to have nearly identical rigidity dependence and the electron e^{-} flux exhibits a different rigidity dependence. Below 60 GV, the (p[over ¯]/p), (p[over ¯]/e^{+}), and (p/e^{+}) flux ratios each reaches a maximum. From ∼60 to ∼500  GV, the (p[over ¯]/p), (p[over ¯]/e^{+}), and (p/e^{+}) flux ratios show no rigidity dependence. These are new observations of the properties of elementary particles in the cosmos.

Strategies to prevent mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B

Mother-to-child transmission is the main way of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Thus, blocking mother-to-child transmission is an important means to control the epidemic of HBV. However, the management of pregnant women with HBV still has many problems, such as the lack of uniform guidelines on the treatment. Although passive-active immunoprophylaxis, including hepatitis B immunoglobulin and hepatitis B virus vaccine, is widely used at birth to interrupt HBV transmission, mother-to-child transmission of HBV still occurs in some infants. In recent years nucleoside analog has been widely used in clinical practice. This paper summarizes and analyzes a variety of programs of blocking mother-to-child transmission, aiming to make strategies to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HBV more standardized and effective.

TNFα-activated mesenchymal stromal cells promote breast cancer metastasis by recruiting CXCR2+ neutrophils

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) tend to infiltrate into tumors and form a major component of the tumor microenvironment. Our previous work demonstrated that tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα)-activated MSCs significantly promoted tumor growth. However, the role of TNFα-treated MSCs in tumor metastasis remains elusive. Employing a lung metastasis model of murine breast cancer, we found that TNFα-activated MSCs strikingly enhanced tumor metastasis compared with normal MSCs. We analyzed the chemokine profiles and found that the expression of CCL5, CCR2 and CXCR2 ligands were enhanced in TNFα-activated MSCs. Using genetic or pharmacological strategies to inhibit CCL5 or CCR2, we demonstrated that CCL5 and CCR2 ligands were indispensable in supporting TNFα-activated MSCs to promote tumor metastasis. Analysis of immune cells revealed that CXCR2 ligands (CXCL1, CXCL 2 and CXCL5) expressed by TNFα-activated MSCs efficiently recruited CXCR2⁺ neutrophils into tumor. These neutrophils were responsible for the pro-metastatic effect of MSCs since inhibition of this chemotaxis abolished increased neutrophil recruitment and tumor metastasis. The interaction between neutrophils and tumor cells resulted in markedly elevated metastasis-related genes by tumor cells, including CXCR4, CXCR7, MMP12, MMP13, IL-6 and TGFβ. Importantly, in IL8^high human breast cancer samples, we also observed similar alterations of gene expression. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that TNFα-activated MSCs promote tumor metastasis via CXCR2⁺ neutrophil recruitment.

Roles of Proton-Sensing Receptors in the Transition from Acute to Chronic Pain

Chronic pain, when not effectively treated, is a leading health and socioeconomic problem and has a harmful effect on all aspects of health-related quality of life. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanism of how pain transitions from the acute to chronic phase is essential for developing effective novel analgesics. Accumulated evidence has shown that the transition from acute to chronic pain is determined by a cellular signaling switch called hyperalgesic priming, which occurs in primary nociceptive afferents. The hyperalgesic priming is triggered by inflammatory mediators and is involved in a signal switch from protein kinase A (PKA) to protein kinase Cε (PKCε) located in both isolectin B4 (IB4)-positive (nonpeptidergic) and IB4-negative (peptidergic) nociceptors. Acidosis may be the decisive factor regulating the PKA-to-PKCε signal switch in a proton-sensing G-protein-coupled receptor-dependent manner. Protons can also induce the hyperalgesic priming in IB4-negative muscle nociceptors in a PKCε-independent manner. Acid-sensing ion channel 3 (ASIC3) and transient receptor potential/vanilloid receptor subtype 1 (TRPV1) are 2 major acid sensors involved in the proton-induced hyperalgesic priming. The proton-induced hyperalgesic priming in muscle afferents can be prevented by a substance P-mediated signaling pathway. In this review, we summarize the factors that modulate hyperalgesic priming in both IB4-positive and IB4-negative nociceptors and discuss the role of acid signaling in inflammatory and noninflammatory pain as well as orofacial muscle pain.

Precision Measurement of the Helium Flux in Primary Cosmic Rays of Rigidities 1.9 GV to 3 TV with the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station

Knowledge of the precise rigidity dependence of the helium flux is important in understanding the origin, acceleration, and propagation of cosmic rays. A precise measurement of the helium flux in primary cosmic rays with rigidity (momentum/charge) from 1.9 GV to 3 TV based on 50 million events is presented and compared to the proton flux. The detailed variation with rigidity of the helium flux spectral index is presented for the first time. The spectral index progressively hardens at rigidities larger than 100 GV. The rigidity dependence of the helium flux spectral index is similar to that of the proton spectral index though the magnitudes are different. Remarkably, the spectral index of the proton to helium flux ratio increases with rigidity up to 45 GV and then becomes constant; the flux ratio above 45 GV is well described by a single power law.

Precision Measurement of the Proton Flux in Primary Cosmic Rays from Rigidity 1 GV to 1.8 TV with the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station

A precise measurement of the proton flux in primary cosmic rays with rigidity (momentum/charge) from 1 GV to 1.8 TV is presented based on 300 million events. Knowledge of the rigidity dependence of the proton flux is important in understanding the origin, acceleration, and propagation of cosmic rays. We present the detailed variation with rigidity of the flux spectral index for the first time. The spectral index progressively hardens at high rigidities.

Precision Measurement of the (e^{+}+e^{-}) Flux in Primary Cosmic Rays from 0.5 GeV to 1 TeV with the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station

We present a measurement of the cosmic ray (e^{+}+e^{-}) flux in the range 0.5 GeV to 1 TeV based on the analysis of 10.6 million (e^{+}+e^{-}) events collected by AMS. The statistics and the resolution of AMS provide a precision measurement of the flux. The flux is smooth and reveals new and distinct information. Above 30.2 GeV, the flux can be described by a single power law with a spectral index γ=-3.170±0.008(stat+syst)±0.008(energy scale).

Electron and positron fluxes in primary cosmic rays measured with the alpha magnetic spectrometer on the international space station

Precision measurements by the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station of the primary cosmic-ray electron flux in the range 0.5 to 700 GeV and the positron flux in the range 0.5 to 500 GeV are presented. The electron flux and the positron flux each require a description beyond a single power-law spectrum. Both the electron flux and the positron flux change their behavior at ∼30  GeV but the fluxes are significantly different in their magnitude and energy dependence. Between 20 and 200 GeV the positron spectral index is significantly harder than the electron spectral index. The determination of the differing behavior of the spectral indices versus energy is a new observation and provides important information on the origins of cosmic-ray electrons and positrons.

High statistics measurement of the positron fraction in primary cosmic rays of 0.5-500 GeV with the alpha magnetic spectrometer on the international space station

A precision measurement by AMS of the positron fraction in primary cosmic rays in the energy range from 0.5 to 500 GeV based on 10.9 million positron and electron events is presented. This measurement extends the energy range of our previous observation and increases its precision. The new results show, for the first time, that above ∼200  GeV the positron fraction no longer exhibits an increase with energy.

First result from the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station: precision measurement of the positron fraction in primary cosmic rays of 0.5-350 GeV

A precision measurement by the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station of the positron fraction in primary cosmic rays in the energy range from 0.5 to 350 GeV based on 6.8 × 10(6) positron and electron events is presented. The very accurate data show that the positron fraction is steadily increasing from 10 to ∼ 250  GeV, but, from 20 to 250 GeV, the slope decreases by an order of magnitude. The positron fraction spectrum shows no fine structure, and the positron to electron ratio shows no observable anisotropy. Together, these features show the existence of new physical phenomena.

Lifestyle intervention in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in Chengyang District, Qingdao, China

AIM

To evaluate the effect of a 6 and 12 mo lifestyle modification intervention in nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLD) in Chengyang District of Qingdao.

METHODS

Participants with NAFLD who had resided in Chengyang District for more than 5 years were enrolled in this study. After the 6 and 12 mo lifestyle modification intervention based on physical activity, nutrition and behavior therapy, parameters such as body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase values, serum cholesterol, triglycerides, fasting glucose, fasting insulin and visceral fat area (VFA), the liver-spleen ratio and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were evaluated and compared between participants with and without the intervention.

RESULTS

Seven hundred and twenty-four participants were assigned to the lifestyle intervention group (LS) and 363 participants were assigned to the control group (CON). After the intervention, body weights in the LS group were significantly decreased compared to those in the CON group at 6 mo (11.59% ± 4.7% vs 0.4% ± 0.2%, P = 0.001) and at 12 mo (12.73% ± 5.6% vs 0.9% ± 0.3%, P = 0.001). Compared with the CON group, BMI was more decreased in the LS group after 6 and 12 mo (P = 0.043 and P = 0.032). Waist circumference was more reduced in the LS group than in CON (P = 0.031 and P = 0.017). After the 6 and 12 mo intervention, ALT decreased significantly in the LS group (P = 0.003 and P = 0.002). After 6 and 12 mo, the metabolic syndrome rate had decreased more in the LS group compared with the CON group (P = 0.026 and P = 0.017). After 12 mo, the HOMA-IR score decreased more obviously in the LS group (P = 0.041); this result also appeared in the VFA after 12 mo in the LS group (P = 0.035).

CONCLUSION

Lifestyle intervention was effective in improving NAFLD in both 6 and 12 mo interventions. This intervention offered a practical approach for treating a large number of NAFLD patients in the Chengyang District of Qingdao.

Multiple delocalization of electrons and persistent currents in random n-mer mesoscopic rings

We demonstrate that the electronic property of a mesoscopic ring can be alternatively tuned between metallic and insulative states by changing the Fermi level. The one-dimensional mesoscopic ring is constructed based on random n-mer model and threaded by magnetic flux. Multiple localization-delocalization transitions of electrons have been found. When the Fermi level approaches the resonant energy, persistent current approaches the behavior of free electrons regardless of the disorder, corresponding to the metallic feature. Away from the resonant state, the current is dramatically diminished, indicating an insulative feature. We suggest our results have potential application in designing quantum switch devices.

The coherence effect of surface plasmons on optical transmission in silver subwavelength hole arrays

We study the optical transmission through a silver film with subwavelength hole arrays, which is sandwiched by super-thin SiO2 layers. Based on finite-difference time-domain method, optical transmission and dispersion relation of surface plasmons are obtained. It is shown that surface plasmons are coherent in the top layer of the sandwich, which affects optical transmission in this subwavelength system. As a result, transmission modes can be tuned by changing the thickness of top layer. Resonant modes are also demonstrated by the electric field distribution. Besides, anti-resonances induced by Fano interference are also observed in this system. These properties may provide a peculiar approach to manipulate the propagation of electromagnetic wave in subwave-length microstructures.

Surgical intervention for benign prostatic hyperplasia in Hong Kong

OBJECTIVES

To review the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia in Hong Kong.

DESIGN

Questionnaire study and review of previous presentations at the Hong Kong Urological Association meetings.

SETTING

Urology centres in the public sector, Hong Kong.

PARTICIPANTS

Thirteen public urology centres replied to the questionnaire survey. Thirty-two papers on benign prostatic hyperplasia presented at past annual scientific meetings of the Hong Kong Urological Association were identified. This would provide an overview of the development of surgical interventions for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia carried out in Hong Kong.

RESULTS

Most known surgical techniques have been practised in Hong Kong. Many 'minimally invasive procedures' have now fallen out of favour. Some newer techniques are now available and have produced favourable results. Nonetheless, transurethral resection of the prostate remains the standard surgical intervention in 12 of 13 centres in Hong Kong.

CONCLUSION

Transurethral resection of the prostate remains the technique of choice for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia in Hong Kong. New techniques should be comprehensively studied and evaluated before being introduced into regular practice.

Low dose BCG as adjuvant therapy for superficial bladder cancer and literature review

BACKGROUND

Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) at low doses has long been employed as prophylactic and therapeutic treatment for superficial cancer of the urinary bladder, aiming at reducing toxicity while maintaining efficacy. A retrospective review was reported, together with a review of the literature with respect to a low dose BCG regimen.

METHODS

Forty-five consecutive patients with superficial bladder cancer (Ta or T1) with one or more of the appropriate criteria (grade above 1, stage above a, size >1 cm, multiple or recurrent), after complete transurethral resection, received 27 mg Connaught strain BCG weekly for 6 weeks. There was no maintenance therapy. Patients were evaluated with urine cytology and cystoscopy. Recurrence, progression and death were analysed.

RESULTS

With a median follow up of 14 (range 3-61) months, 24 (53%) of the 45 patients responded to one course of 6 weekly BCG without recurrence. A further group of 13 (29%) patients responded to a second course of BCG on recurrence. Disease progressed in one (2.2%) patient. Two (4.4%) patients died of an unrelated condition. There was no disease specific mortality. Side-effects were common but well tolerated, with only two (4.4%) cases of treatment interruption.

CONCLUSIONS

Low dose BCG could be an alternative option of adjuvant therapy for superficial bladder cancer with acceptable toxicity and good compliance.

Heterogeneity in nuclear transport does not affect the timing of DNA synthesis in quiescent mammalian nuclei induced to replicate in Xenopus egg extracts

Intact G0 nuclei from quiescent mammalian cells initiate DNA synthesis asynchronously in Xenopus egg extracts, despite exposure to the same concentration of replication factors. This indicates that individual nuclei differ in their ability to respond to the inducers of DNA replication. Since the induction of DNA synthesis requires the accumulation of replication factors by active nuclear transport, any variation in the rate of transport among nuclei could contribute to the variability of DNA replication. Using the naturally fluorescent protein allophycocyanin (APC) coupled with the nuclear localization sequence (NLS) of SV40 T antigen, as a marker of nuclear uptake, we show here that individual G0 nuclei differ in their rate of transport over a range of more than 20-fold. Surprisingly, this variation has no direct influence on the timing or extent of DNA synthesis. Similar results were obtained by monitoring the uptake of nucleoplasmin, a nuclear protein present at high levels in egg extracts. These experiments show that the initiation of DNA synthesis is not driven merely by the accumulation of replication factors to some threshold concentration. Instead, some other explanation is needed to account for the timing of initiation.

Suppression of zeaxanthin formation does not reduce photosynthesis and growth of transgenic tobacco under field conditions

Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum cv. Xanthi) transformed with an antisense cDNA construct of violaxanthin de-epoxidase (VDE) was examined for the effects of suppressed xanthophyll-cycle activity on photoinhibition, photosynthesis and growth under field conditions. De-epoxidation of violaxanthin and non-photochemical quenching were highly inhibited in antisense plants relative to vector-control and wild-type plants. However, no differences were observed between antisense and control plants in photosynthetic CO(2) uptake and maximum photochemical yield [(F(m)-F(o))/F(m)] measured at predawn or in actual photochemical yield [(F(m)'-F(s))/F(m)'] measured at midday. Moreover, growth rates of the plants were the same, as were the leaf area ratio, plant height and leaf number. Similarly, antisense plants did not exhibit greater susceptibility to photoinhibition than controls under field conditions. In contrast, when chloroplast protein (D1) synthesis was inhibited by lincomycin, antisense plants were more vulnerable to photoinhibition than wild-type plants. These results indicate that photoprotection under field conditions is not strictly dependent on the levels of the de-epoxidized xanthophylls, antheraxanthin and zeaxanthin.

Effects of osutidine (T-593) and its enantiomers on gastric mucosal hemodynamics and mucosal integrity in anesthetized rats

T-593 (osutidine, CAS 140695-21-2) is a new anti-ulcer agent that consists of two enantiomers, (+)-(R)-T-593 and (-)-(S)-T-593. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of T-593, (+)-(R)-T-593 and (-)-(S)-T-593 on ethanol-induced gastric damage in rats. Rats were given intraperitoneal administration of vehicle, racemic T-593, (+)-(R)-T-593 or (-)-(S)-T-593. 30 min later, the rats intragastrically received a 1-ml solution of 40% ethanol, and 30 min thereafter, they were sacrificed for assessment of gastric damage. Gastric hemodynamics were assessed by reflectance spectrophotometry and laser Doppler flowmetry during the experiment. Gastric damage was significantly suppressed by racemic T-593 in a dose-dependent manner. While 60 mg/kg of (+)-(R)-T-593 and (-)-(S)-T-593 also suppressed ethanol-induced gastric injury, the same dose of racemic T-593 exerted the most potent anti-ulcerative activity. Both (+)-(R)-T-593 and racemic T-593 increased gastric mucosal blood flow and abolished gastric mucosal blood flow stasis induced by 40% ethanol. Although (-)-(S)-T-593, which antagonizes histamine H2-receptors, exerts an antiulcerative effect, (+)-(R)-T-593 also protects the gastric mucosa from ethanol-induced injury, possibly by influencing gastric mucosal hemodynamics. Thus racemic T-593 may protect the gastric mucosa by antagonizing H2-receptors and by enhancing gastric circulation in rats.

Induction of cyclooxygenase-2 in rat gastric mucosa by rebamipide, a mucoprotective agent

Recent studies indicate an expression of mitogen-inducible cyclooxygenase (COX-2) in gastric mucosa. Rebamipide, a mucoprotective agent enhances prostaglandin (PG) synthesis. The present study was designed to clarify the mechanism for rebamipide-induced mucosal protection. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were administered 5, 15, or 50 mg/kg/day rebamipide for 14 days. The expression of constitutive cyclooxygenase (COX-1) and COX-2 in gastric mucosa was determined using Western blot analysis. Another series of rats was used to examine 1) the levels of PGE(2) in stomach with and without pretreatment with a COX-2 inhibitor; 2) the protective action of rebamipide against gastric damage caused by 0.6 N HCl; and 3) the effects of a COX-2 inhibitor on rebamipide-induced gastric mucosal protection. COX-2 expression was enhanced, whereas COX-1 expression did not change significantly in the gastric mucosa of rats after treatment with rebamipide. The gastric mucosal PGE(2) was higher in the rebamipide groups than in the vehicle-treated group. Rebamipide also suppressed gastric damage induced by HCl in a dose-dependent manner. A COX-2 inhibitor blocked the rebamipide-induced increase in mucosal PGE(2), and mucosal protection induced by rebamipide. The results indicate that rebamipide induces COX-2 expression, increases PGE(2) levels, and enhances gastric mucosal defense in a COX-2-dependent manner. Thus, COX-2 has an important role in the effects of rebamipide on gastric mucosal protection.

[Application of autotransfusion hemodilution in laryngectomy]

OBJECTIVE

To study the application and clinical significance of autotransfusion hemodilution in laryngectomy.

METHOD

Autotransfusion hemodilution was adopted in 30 patients with III or IV stage laryngeal carcinoma during operation as the experimental group, and the blood transfusion only was adopted in the patients with excessively blood loss. The other 30 patients with the same stages of disease and the same kinds of operation were performed as the control group, without autotransfusion hemodilution and the blood transfusion was adopted if necessary.

RESULT

Blood transfusion was necessary to be performed only in 8 patients of the experimental group, on the contrary, it was necessary in 19 of 30 patients of the control group (P < 0.01). There were no complications during the operations, and the postoperative complications were no significance (P > 0.05) between two groups.

CONCLUSION

The application of autotransfusion hemodilution may be of help to a plenty of patients with laryngeal carcinoma in advanced stage to keep off the blood transfusion during laryngectomy.

Induction of DNA synthesis or apoptosis in mammalian nuclei by Xenopus egg extracts that fail to support the replication of sperm chromatin

Cell-free extracts of Xenopus eggs are widely used to study DNA replication in higher eukaryotes. However, with Xenopus sperm chromatin as template, it is a common experience that the efficiency of replication varies from extract to extract, for reasons that are unclear. Here we show that the majority of extracts unable to support sperm replication are nevertheless able to induce DNA synthesis in intact mammalian nuclei. Those that do not, induce apoptosis.

Cyclo-oxygenase-2 inhibitors suppress epithelial cell kinetics and delay gastric wound healing in rats

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The present study examined the effects of NS-398, a specific cyclo-oxygenase-2 inhibitor, on gastric mucosal cell kinetics and gastric wound healing following acid-induced injury.

METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fasted for 24 h and then 0.6 mol/L hydrochloric acid (HCl; 1 mL) was administered into the stomach; NS-398 or indomethacin was administered to the animals 10 min after the acid. Levels of constitutive cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1) and mitogen-inducible cyclo-oxygenase (COX-2) in the gastric mucosa were analysed using western blotting and immunohistochemical staining. The grade of the lesion was assessed using planimetry and histological examination, including immunohistochemistry for proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA).

RESULTS

Although there was strong expression of COX-1, there was minimal expression of COX-2 in the gastric mucosa. Expression of COX-2 was enhanced mainly in surface epithelial cells and neck cells following HCl administration. Gastric mucosal ulcers and erosions healed within 48 h, during which time the proliferative zone expanded in the control animals. Indomethacin and NS-398 suppressed the expansion of the proliferative zone and delayed the healing of the gastric injury.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated that cyclo-oxygenase-2 inhibitors delay gastric wound healing by suppressing expansion of the mucosal proliferative zone. These results provide evidence that cyclo-oxygenase-2 has an important role in gastric mucosal regeneration.

Selective instability of Orc1 protein accounts for the absence of functional origin recognition complexes during the M-G(1) transition in mammals

To investigate the events leading to initiation of DNA replication in mammalian chromosomes, the time when hamster origin recognition complexes (ORCs) became functional was related to the time when Orc1, Orc2 and Mcm3 proteins became stably bound to hamster chromatin. Functional ORCs, defined as those able to initiate DNA replication, were absent during mitosis and early G(1) phase, and reappeared as cells progressed through G(1) phase. Immunoblotting analysis revealed that hamster Orc1 and Orc2 proteins were present in nuclei at equivalent concentrations throughout the cell cycle, but only Orc2 was stably bound to chromatin. Orc1 and Mcm3 were easily eluted from chromatin during mitosis and early G(1) phase, but became stably bound during mid-G(1) phase, concomitant with the appearance of a functional pre-replication complex at a hamster replication origin. Since hamster Orc proteins are closely related to their human and mouse homologs, the unexpected behavior of hamster Orc1 provides a novel mechanism in mammals for delaying assembly of pre-replication complexes until mitosis is complete and a nuclear structure has formed.

Antisense suppression of violaxanthin de-epoxidase in tobacco does not affect plant performance in controlled growth conditions

Violaxanthin de-epoxidase (VDE) catalyzes the de-epoxidation of violaxanthin to antheraxanthin and zeaxanthin in the xanthophyll cycle. Tobacco was transformed with an antisense VDE construct under control of the cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter to determine the effect of reduced levels of VDE on plant growth. Screening of 40 independent transformants revealed 18 antisense lines with reduced levels of VDE activity with two in particular (TAS32 and TAS39) having greater than 95% reduction in VDE activity. Northern analysis demonstrated that these transformants had greatly suppressed levels of VDE mRNA. De-epoxidation of violaxanthin was inhibited to such an extent that no zeaxanthin and only very low levels of antheraxanthin could be detected after exposure of leaves to high light (2000 mumol m(-2) s(-1) for 20 min) with no observable effect on levels of other carotenoids and chlorophyll. Non-photochemical quenching was greatly reduced in the antisense VDE tobacco, demonstrating that a significant level of the non-photochemical quenching in tobacco requires de-epoxidation of violaxanthin. Although the antisense plants demonstrated a greatly impaired de-epoxidation of violaxanthin, no effect on plant growth or photosynthetic rate was found when plants were grown at a photon flux density of 500 or 1000 mumol m(-2) s(-1) under controlled growth conditions as compared to wild-type tobacco.

Interleukin 12 administration enhances Th1 activity but delays recovery from influenza A virus infection in mice

Interleukin 12 (IL-12) directs the differentiation of undifferentiated T helper (Th0) cells to T helper type 1 (Th1) cells and induces a cell-mediated immune response. To evaluate the effect of IL-12 on the course of influenza A virus infection, BALB/c mice were administered a daily intraperitoneal dose of 1000 ng of IL-12 or saline on days -1 to +4 for a total of six treatments. The treatment generally enhanced Th1-mediated responses. IFNgamma lung concentrations were 1193 +/- 275 pg/100 microl in controls and 3693 +/- 745 pg/100 microl in IL-12-treated mice at day 5. IFNgamma levels were undetectable at day 13 in controls and 1335 +/- 220 pg/100 microl in IL-12-treated mice. Cytokine production was also assessed at the single-cell level for mediastinal lymph nodes. IL-12 treatment increased the number of IL-2- and IFNgamma-producing cells and decreased the number of IL-4- and IL-10-producing cells. IL-12 treatment decreased the anti-influenza antibody response, especially anti-influenza IgG1 antibody resulting in an increased IgG2a/IgG1 ratio. Primary pulmonary CTL activity on day 5 was low for both groups (10% specific lysis). Secondary CTL activity at day 11 was higher for control mice than for IL-12-treated mice on day 11 (44 versus 34%), but not on day 13. Despite this overall enhancement of Th1-mediated immune functions, the IL-12 treatment increased severity of the disease. Following infection, control and IL-12-treated mice decreased their body weight to approximately 75% of their initial weight. After day 5, the control mice started to recover, while IL-12-treated mice did not begin recovering until day 9. Pulmonary viral titers were 1.6 +/- 0.3 TCID50 in controls at day 5 compared to 2.4 +/- 0.3 for IL-12-treated mice (P < 0.01). In addition, control mice had significantly less severe inflammation and damage on histologic examination. Serum TNFalpha concentrations, undetectable in control mice, were elevated by IL-12 treatment up to 80 pg/ml at day 5 and decreased to zero at day 13. It is concluded that IL-12 administration to influenza-infected mice induces a switch from a Th2- to a Th1-mediated response, but inhibits recovery probably through induction of TNFalpha.

Estrogen inhibits phorbol ester-induced I kappa B alpha transcription and protein degradation

Estrogen (E2) is known to prevent bone loss and the mechanism is, at least in part, mediated by inhibition of expression of cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6). Expression of IL-6 is tightly regulated and the transcription factor NF kappa B can upregulate IL-6 gene expression by binding to its promoter region. NF kappa B is kept in an inactive state by associating with its cytoplasmic inhibitor I kappa B alpha. Upon mitogenic stimulation, I kappa B alpha becomes phosphorylated, followed by a rapid protein degradation. As a result, NF kappa B is released and translocate to the nucleus where DNA binding occurs. It has been shown that E2 treatment downregulates mitogen-induced IL-6 expression by inhibiting NF kappa B activity. Here, we sought to determine whether E2 regulates IL-6 gene expression by modulating the levels of I kappa B alpha. Our results show that E2 treatment almost completely inhibits phorbol ester-induced I kappa B alpha protein degradation. In addition, E2 inhibits phorbol ester-stimulated I kappa B alpha gene expression. Taken together, our results suggest that E2 maintains steady state levels of I kappa B alpha upon mitogen stimulation, resulting in inhibition of NF kappa B activation and IL-6 gene expression. This may explain the protective effect of E2 on bone loss.

Helicobacter pylori and gastric carcinogenesis

This article consists of three independent studies regarding Helicobacter pylori-related gastric carcinogenesis. Ammonia, a Helicobacter product, promoted chemically induced gastric carcinogenesis in animals. Moreover, an extract of Helicobacter stimulated inflammatory production of nitric oxide (NO), a potent mutagen that causes G:C-->A:T transition. Meta-analysis of recent studies demonstrated that G:C-->A:T transition is one of the most common mutations in the p53 tumor suppressor gene in early phases of human gastric carcinogenesis. Therefore, bacterial factors such as ammonia and host factors, including inflammatory NO production, might play important roles in H. pylori-induced gastric carcinogenesis.

Developing particle-mediated gene-transfer technology for research into gene therapy of cancer

Gene therapy aims to (1) introduce specific genes into a host to replace defective ones (replacement therapy); (2) suppress expression of certain undesirable genes (antisense therapy); or (3) provide additional biological activities (supplement therapy). Naked DNA and viral or non-viral vectors containing candidate genes for human gene therapy are being actively pursued by researchers in molecular medicine. New gene transfer technologies are rapidly developing and some have proved to be powerful tools for medical research. This review discusses the development and application of particle-mediated gene transfer technology in experimental systems and its potential clinical utilities.

Case report: rupture and growth of adrenal myelolipoma in two patients

Two cases of pathologically confirmed adrenal myelolipoma are described in Chinese patients. The first patient presented with tumour rupture and perinephric haemorrhage. The second patient was operated on 18 months after the incidental discovery of the tumour, due to its large size and the interval growth.

Gene gun-mediated skin transfection with interleukin 12 gene results in regression of established primary and metastatic murine tumors

Particle-mediated (gene gun) in vivo delivery of the murine interleukin 12 (IL-12) gene in an expression plasmid was evaluated for antitumor activity. Transfer of IL-12 cDNA into epidermal cells overlying an implanted intradermal tumor resulted in detectable levels (266.0 +/- 27.8 pg) of the transgenic protein at the skin tissue treatment site. Despite these low levels of transgenic IL-12, complete regression of established tumors (0.4-0.8 cm in diameter) was achieved in mice bearing Renca, MethA, SA-1, or L5178Y syngeneic tumors. Only one to four treatments with IL-12 cDNA-coated particles, starting on day 7 after tumor cell implantation, were required to achieve complete tumor regression. This antitumor effect was CD8+ T cell-dependent and led to the generation of tumor-specific immunological memory. By using a metastatic P815 tumor model, we further showed that a delivery of IL-12 cDNA into the skin overlying an advanced intradermal tumor, followed by tumor excision and three additional IL-12 gene transfections, could significantly inhibit systemic metastases, resulting in extended survival of test mice. These results suggest that gene gun-mediated in vivo delivery of IL-12 cDNA should be further developed for potential clinical testing as an approach for human cancer gene therapy.

Interleukin-6 causes hypocholesterolemia in middle-aged and old rhesus monkeys

BACKGROUND

Hypocholesterolemia is a risk factor for morbidity and mortality in older people. We have hypothesized that hypocholesterolemia in older people is due to the chronic effect of proinflammatory cytokines on lipoprotein metabolism.

METHODS

To test the effects of the chronic administration of interleukin-6 (IL-6) on lipoprotein levels in middle-aged and old rhesus monkeys, five middle-aged and five old rhesus monkeys received a subcutaneous injection of recombinant human IL-6 (15 micrograms/kg) for 28 days. Lipid, apolipoprotein, and albumin levels were measured at 0, 28, and 42 days after injection.

RESULTS

Total and HDL cholesterol levels fell by 16 and 23%, respectively, after IL-6 injections. The concentrations of apolipoproteins A1 and B also decreased. The changes in lipoprotein levels were accompanied by a decrease in albumin levels and body weight. Levels of lipids and plasma proteins returned toward normal 2 weeks after injections were stopped. There was no difference in response between middle-aged and older animals.

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic IL-6 injections cause acquired hypocholesterolemia, hypoalbuminemia, and weight loss in nonhuman primates. These changes are similar to those seen in older persons with acquired hypocholesterolemia.

In vivo cytokine gene transfer by gene gun reduces tumor growth in mice

Implantation of tumor cells modified by in vitro cytokine gene transfer has been shown by many investigators to result in potent in vivo antitumor activities in mice. Here we describe an approach to tumor immunotherapy utilizing direct transfection of cytokine genes into tumor-bearing animals by particle-mediated gene transfer. In vivo transfection of the human interleukin 6 gene into the tumor site reduced methylcholanthrene-induced fibrosarcoma growth, and a combination of murine tumor necrosis factor alpha and interferon gamma genes inhibited growth of a renal carcinoma tumor model (Renca). In addition, treatment with murine interleukin 2 and interferon gamma genes prolonged the survival of Renca tumor-bearing mice and resulted in tumor eradication in 25% of the test animals. Transgene expression was demonstrated in treated tissues by ELISA and immunohistochemical analysis. Significant serum levels of interleukin 6 and interferon gamma were detected, demonstrating effective secretion of transgenic proteins from treated skin into the bloodstream. This in vivo cytokine gene therapy approach provides a system for evaluating the antitumor properties of various cytokines in different tumor models and has potential utility for human cancer gene therapy.

The role of interleukin-6 in certain age-related diseases

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine with a wide range of functions. Perhaps the most important physiologically is its role as a mediator of the acute phase inflammatory response. Normally, there is little measurable IL-6 in the circulation, but levels increase abruptly to nanogram amounts during an inflammatory process. During aging, it has been proposed that the tight regulation of IL-6 gene expression becomes less effective and levels are measurable even when there is no evidence for inflammation. Several investigators have identified this cytokine as being involved in the pathogenesis of various disease processes and we have suggested that certain age-associated diseases are directly related. Among these are late-life lymphoma and myeloma, osteoporosis and possibly Alzheimer's disease.

Effects of recombinant human interleukin-6 administration on bone in rhesus monkeys

The role of interleukin-6 in the bone microenvironment is controversial. We studied the effect of recombinant human interleukin-6 (rhIL-6) administration on bone metabolism in 10 adult female rhesus monkeys (age 12-27 years). Monkeys received rhIL-6 (15 micrograms/kg/day) daily by subcutaneous injection for 28 days. Serum alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, and 24 h urinary calcium excretion were determined before, during (at weeks 2 and 4), and after (at week 6) treatment. Transilial biopsies (right and left) were obtained before treatment was initiated and just after the final (28th) dose at week 4. The serum alkaline phosphatase significantly increased at 2 and 4 weeks of rhIL-6 administration. Osteocalcin and urinary calcium excretion significantly decreased at week 2. Upon treatment with rhIL-6 significant reductions in OS/BS and Ob.S/BS were observed without changes in other static histomorphometry parameters. The reductions in urinary calcium excretion, serum osteocalcin, and the static bone parameters are consistent with an IL-6 induced reduction in bone formation or turnover. Whether this pharmacologic effect is relevant at the physiologic level remains to be determined.

The influence of recombinant human interleukin-6 on blood and immune parameters in middle-aged and old rhesus monkeys

IL-6 is a 26-kDa protein cytokine with pleiotropic activities in both hematopoietic and immune systems. It is one of the major mediators of the acute phase inflammatory response. Recently it has been demonstrated that pharmacological doses of human recombinant IL-6 (rhIL-6) inhibit certain murine tumors as well as stimulate thrombopoiesis in mice, dogs, nonhuman primates, and humans. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the effects and toxicity of rhIL-6 administration in nonhuman primates with particular reference to subject age. We treated 10 female monkeys of two age groups (midle-aged and old) with rhIL-6 (15 micrograms/kg/day) for 28 days. The monkeys were observed to be somewhat lethargic and lost an average of 10% of their body weights. The white blood cell count rose transiently whereas the levels of hemoglobin and hematocrit fell significantly and remained depressed for the same period. Importantly, platelet count rose and remained elevated for the duration of treatments. Serum alkaline phosphatase levels increase significantly and certain parameters of clinical immune competence were altered by IL-6 treatment. Treatment effects were similar in both age groups, but the changes in immune functions were different between the midle-aged and old monkeys. We observed a pattern in which the middle-aged group had a significant decrease in immune functions as a result of IL-6 administration and recovered to pretreatment level despite continuous treatment, whereas the old monkeys had a more protracted but less significant decline in these same immune functions during the trial.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Interleukin-6 and aging: blood levels and mononuclear cell production increase with advancing age and in vitro production is modifiable by dietary restriction

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a multifunctional cytokine that is proving to be a major contributor to the acute phase inflammatory response. IL-6 expression is normally low and serum levels are usually nondetectable in the absence of inflammation. With advancing age, however, serum levels become detectable and it is proposed that this reflects an age-associated loss in the normal regulation of gene expression for this molecule. There is also speculation that IL-6 may contribute to the pathogenesis of several diseases that are common in late-life including lymphoma, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer's disease. In this report we demonstrate that plasma levels of IL-6 rise with advancing age in well-selected healthy elderly people and comparably in old rhesus monkeys. That this change reflects a primary aging process is suggested by our findings in C57BL/6 mice in which the age-associated increase in the in vitro synthesis of IL-6 is largely prevented by life span-extending dietary restriction.

In vivo and in vitro characteristics of interleukin 6-transfected B16 melanoma cells

Interleukin 6 (IL-6) is a multifunctional cytokine important in the inflammatory response. Its potential role as an antitumor agent has been suggested by its demonstrated activity in a variety of tumor models. The mechanism of antitumor activity has been proposed to be its enhancement of cytotoxic T-cell function. In the current work we demonstrate clear antitumor activity for this cytokine in a nonimmunogenic tumor system. B16 melanoma cells transfected with the human IL-6 complementary DNA demonstrated slower tumor growth in vivo. Tumors that developed from these cells had a prominent stromal matrix, an easily recognized infiltration of inflammatory cells, fewer mitotic figures, and fewer blood vessels. These in vivo findings corresponded with a greater adhesion of the IL-6-transfected B16 cells to stromal matrix proteins (laminin, fibronectin, and vitronectin) and a less prominent vascular response in an intradermal angiogenesis assay. Therefore, we propose that with weakly antigenic tumors, such as B16 melanoma, IL-6 may mediate important antitumor responses by nonspecific proinflammatory mechanisms.

Initial description of a tumor enhancing activity produced by murine splenocytes

We have shown that certain murine tumors grow more slowly and spread less readily in immune deficient animals. We have also demonstrated that immunologic factors explain certain aspects of this difference. In the work presented we demonstrate that a subpopulation of splenocytes produce a factor(s) that enhances tumor cell proliferation in vitro. We also describe an in vitro model to determine the level of tumor stimulatory activity. We found that the tumor cell growth-enhancing activity (TEA) is heat stable but sensitive to trypsin digestion, low pH and beta-mercaptoethanol. TEA production is found to be insensitive to mitogen stimulation such as concanavalin A, lipopolysaccharide, and phytohemagglutinin. Among the known growth factors and interleukins we have tested (interleukin 1-7, basic FGF, EGF, TGF-beta PDGF, GM-CSF, and MCSF), none appear to account for TEA activity.

Bootstrapped confidence intervals for the Cox model using a linear relative risk form

A linear relative risk form for the Cox model is sometimes more appropriate than the usual exponential form. The usual asymptotic confidence interval may not have the appropriate coverage, however, due to flatness of the likelihood in the neighbourhood of beta. For a single continuous covariate, we derive bootstrapped confidence intervals with use of two resampling methods. The first resamples the original data and yields both one-step and fully iterated estimates of beta. The second resamples the score and information quantities at each failure time to yield a one-step estimate. We computed the bootstrapped confidence intervals by three different methods and compared these intervals to one based on the asymptotic standard error and to a likelihood-based interval. The bootstrapped intervals did not perform well and underestimated the true coverage in most cases.