CDC123 promotes Hepatocellular Carcinoma malignant progression by regulating CDKAL1

The cell proliferation protein 123 (CDC123) is involved in the synthesis of the eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF2), which regulates eukaryotic translation. Although CDC123 is considered a candidate oncogene in breast cancer, its expression and role in Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) remain unknown. Herein, we obtained the CDC123 RNA-seq and clinical prognostic data from the TCGA database. The mRNA level revealed that CDC123 was highly expressed in HCC patients, and Kaplan-Meier analysis implied better prognoses in HCC patients with low CDC123 expression (P < 0.001). The multivariate Cox analysis revealed that the CDC123 level was an independent prognostic factor (P < 0.001). We further confirmed a high CDC123 expression in HCC cell lines. Additionally, we found that CDC123 knockdown in HCC cell lines significantly inhibited cellular proliferation, invasion, and migration. Moreover, CDC123 was co-expressed with the CDK5 Regulatory Subunit-Associated Protein 1 Like 1 (CDKAL1), whose mRNA level was decreased after silencing CDC123. Therefore, we hypothesized that CDC123 promotes HCC progression by regulating CDKAL1.

Kupffer cell pyroptosis mediated by METTL3 contributes to the progression of alcoholic steatohepatitis

Chronic alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH). Previous studies have shown that direct injury of hepatocytes is the key factor in its occurrence and development. However, our study shows that the role of Kupffer cells in ASH cannot be ignored. We isolated Kupffer cells from the livers of ASH mice and found that alcohol consumption induced Kupffer cell pyroptosis and increased the release of interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Furthermore, we screened the related m6A enzyme methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) from liver Kupffer cells, and found that silencing METTL3 alleviated inflammatory cytokine eruption by Kupffer cell pyroptosis in ASH mice. In vitro, we silenced METTL3 with lentivirus in BMDMs and RAW264.7 cells and confirmed that METTL3 could reduce pyroptosis by influencing the splicing of pri-miR-34A. Together, our results revealed a critical role of KC pyroptosis in ASH and highlighted the mechanism by which METLL3 relieves cell pyroptosis, which could be a promising therapeutic strategy for ASH.

Associations of Obesity With Growth and Puberty in Children: A Cross-Sectional Study in Fuzhou, China

Objectives: To investigate the associations of obesity with growth and puberty in children. Methods: From November 2017 to December 2019, height, weight, and Tanner stages of 26,879 children aged 3-18 years in Fuzhou, China were assessed. Results: The obese group was significantly taller than the non-obese group after age 4 years for both genders, yet there was no significant difference in height between obese and non-obese group after 15.5 years old for boys and 12.5 years old for girls. The inflection points of significant growth deceleration in obese and non-obese groups were 14.4 and 14.6 years old for boys, and 11.8 and 12.8 years old for girls, respectively. The proportions of testicular development in boys with obesity and non-obesity were 7.96% and 5.08% at 8.5-8.9 years old, respectively, while the proportions of breast development in girls were 17.19% and 3.22% at age 7.5-7.9 years old, respectively. Conclusion: Children with obesity were taller in early childhood, earlier onset of puberty and earlier cessation of growth than children with non-obesity of the same age. However, there was sex dimorphism on the effect of obesity on the incidence of precocious puberty.

Mass spectrometry imaging: new eyes on natural products for drug research and development

Natural products (NPs) and their structural analogs represent a major source of novel drug development for disease prevention and treatment. The development of new drugs from NPs includes two crucial aspects. One is the discovery of NPs from medicinal plants/microorganisms, and the other is the evaluation of the NPs in vivo at various physiological and pathological states. The heterogeneous spatial distribution of NPs in medicinal plants/microorganisms or in vivo can provide valuable information for drug development. However, few molecular imaging technologies can detect thousands of compounds simultaneously on a label-free basis. Over the last two decades, mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) methods have progressively improved and diversified, thereby allowing for the development of various applications of NPs in plants/microorganisms and in vivo NP research. Because MSI allows for the spatial mapping of the production and distribution of numerous molecules in situ without labeling, it provides a visualization tool for NP research. Therefore, we have focused this mini-review on summarizing the applications of MSI technology in discovering NPs from medicinal plants and evaluating NPs in preclinical studies from the perspective of new drug research and development (R&D). Additionally, we briefly reviewed the factors that should be carefully considered to obtain the desired MSI results. Finally, the future development of MSI in new drug R&D is proposed.

[Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada syndrome in the setting of vemurafenib therapy for metastatic melanoma: a case report]

A 53-year-old female patient complained of 1 week of bilateral visual blurring. She was previously diagnosed with metastatic melanoma of the inguinal lymph nodes and treated with the oral targeted drug vemurafenib. She exhibited aqueous flare in the left eye, and her fundus examination revealed optic disc swelling in the left eye and bilateral serious detachment of the retinal neuroepithelial layer. Fluorescein angiography showed multiple pinpoint hyperfluorescence leakage spots in the prometaphase and appeared as multilobular dye pooling in the late phase. We diagnosed her as Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada syndrome and gave glucocorticoid treatment for eyes. Oral vemurafenib was also taken intermittently under the guidance of an oncologist. After treatment, her bilateral vision improved, the anterior segment inflammation disappeared, and the retinal neuroepithelial layer reattached, with presence of the "sunset glow" fundus.

[Altered dynamics of brain spontaneous activity in betel quid dependence chewers]

Objective: To investigate the dynamic characteristics of brain spontaneous activity in betel quid dependence (BQD) chewers and its relationship with clinical indexes. Method: This study was conducted in Hainan General Hospital from April to December 2019 and the data of 53 BQD chewers (37 males and 16 females, aged 20 to 58(38±11) years) and 37 healthy controls (HC) (24 males and 13 females, aged 23-57(42±12) years) were collected. All these subjects underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) scan. The dynamic characteristics of resting fMRI indexes, including dynamic amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF), regional homogeneity (ReHo) and degree centrality (DC) of these subjects were calculated using the sliding time window method, parameters such as age and dynamic local consistency were analyzed and compared between the two groups. Pearson correlation was used to analyze the relationship between dynamic indexes, betel quid dependence score (BQDS) and disease duration in BQD group. Results: BQD chewers showed decreased dynamic ALFF in the left orbital prefrontal cortex (0.138±0.041 vs 0.171±0.070), the right temporal pole superior temporal gyrus (0.277±0.070 vs 0.319±0.086) and the right inferior parietal lobule (0.223±0.052 vs 0.259±0.088) than HC (all P<0.05). For regional homogeneity, BQD chewers showed a decrease dynamic ReHo in the right inferior temporal gyrus (0.055±0.008 vs 0.061±0.009), the orbital prefrontal cortex (0.058±0.005 vs 0.063±0.008), the right inferior frontal gyrus (0.081±0.006 vs 0.087±0.011), the right superior occipital gyrus (0.056±0.007 vs 0.062±0.008), the left precentral gyrus (0.068±0.008 vs 0.074±0.008), and the left superior frontal gyrus (0.058±0.008 vs 0.064±0.009) than HC (all P<0.05). BQD chewers showed an increase dynamic ReHo in the right precuneus (0.095±0.009 vs 0.089±0.008) (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in DC between the two groups (all P>0.05). The relationships between three dynamic ALFF and BQDS (r=-0.104, -0.015, -0.119), seven dynamic ReHo and BQDS (r=-0.099, -0.141, -0.055, -0.078, -0.027, -0.111, -0.090), three dynamic ALFF and disease duration (r=-0.122, -0.095, -0.171), and seven dynamic ReHo and disease duration (r=0.242, -0.252, 0.035, 0.056, 0.047, 0.081, 0.169) were not statistically significant (all P>0.05). Conclusions: BQD chewers showed a decrease dynamic ReHo and/or ALFF in multiple brain regions dominated by prefrontal cortex, and an increase dynamic ReHo in the right precuneus.

[Clinical application of bipolar tweezers-clamp for hepatic parenchymal transection]

Objective: To investigate the clinical value of the bipolar tweezers-clamp for the hepatic parenchymal transection in the resection of hepatocellular carcinoma. Methods: From January 2020 to January 2021,63 patients with the hepatocellular carcinoma for hepatectomy at Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery,Yuebei People's Hospital Affiliated to Shantou University Medical College were analyzed retrospectively.According to the different instruments used in the hepatic parenchymal transection,the patients were divided into bipolar tweezers-clamp group and ultrasonic scalpel group.There were 32 patients in bipolar tweezers-clamp group,with age of (55.5±10.5)years(range:37 to 78 years),including 22 males and 10 females,tumor size was (6.0±3.4)cm(range:2.4 to 13.4 cm). There were 6 patients with portal vein tumor thrombus and 5 patients with portal hypertension. There were 31 patients in ultrasonic scalpel group,with aged(57.8±10.1)years(range:37 to 79 years),including 27males and 4 females,tumor size was(7.9±5.1)cm(range: 2.4 to 21.3 cm),3 patients with portal vein tumor thrombus and 2 patients with portal hypertension. The preoperative baseline data,operation time,blood loss,postoperative liver function and the complications were compared between two groups using t test,χ² test and Fisher exact probabilityrespectively. Results: The operation was successfully completed in both groups.Compared with the ultrasonic scalpel group,the operation time was significantly shorter((219.3±76.4)minutes vs.(294.0±100.8)minutes,t=-3.322,P=0.002),the blood loss was less((250(475)ml vs. 500(1 050)ml,t=-2.307,P=0.026),the concentrate red blood cells transfusion volume was less(0.92(0.88)U vs. 2.32(4.00)U,Z=-1.987,P=0.047) in the bipolar tweezers-clamp group.The postoperative serum ALB level was higher in the bipolar tweezers-clamp group than that in the ultrasonic scalpel group((33.5±6.1)g/L vs. (29.5±4.2)g/L,t=3.226,P=0.020) on postoperative day 1;((35.7±4.5)g/L vs.(30.1±3.2)g/L,t=5.575,P<0.01) on postoperative day 3;((33.2±3.7)g/L vs. (31.0±4.4)g/L,t=3.020,P=0.004) on postoperative day 7. There was no significant difference in serum ALT,TBIL and PT level between the two groups(all P>0.05).No postoperative bile leakage occurred in both groups.The postoperative complications occurred in 8 cases(25.0%)in the bipolar tweezers-clamp group,including liver failure in one,and in 11 cases(35.5%)in the ultrasonic scalpel group,including liver failure in two(P>0.05). Conclusion: The bipolar tweezers-clamp is a safe and reliable method for the hepatic parenchymal transaction,which is quick and less bleeding during the hepatic resection.

[Preliminary clinical observations of retina injury in alkaline ocular trauma patients]

Objective: To investigate the features of the full-field electroretinogram (FERG) in patients with ocular surface alkaline injury, and to clarify the clinical significance of FERG examination in alkaline ocular trauma. Methods: Retrospective series of case study. A total of 22 patients with chemical ocular surface injury who were treated in the Department of Ophthalmology of Peking University Third Hospital from May 2018 to January 2020 were selected, including 20 males (25 eyes) and 2 females (2 eyes). The age ranged from 19 to 60 years old (average, 41). There were 17 eyes with alkaline ocular trauma, 7 eyes with thermal burn, and 3 eyes with acid ocular trauma. Seventeen contralateral healthy eyes in patients with unilateral mechanical trauma were used as controls. Fourteen alkaline trauma eyes with visual acuity records were further observed according to the degree of visual impairment. All patients were subjected to different flash intensity stimuli in accordance with a standard of the International Society for Clinical Electrophysiology of Vision for dark-adapted and light-adapted full-field FERG. One-way ANOVA and SNK-q was used for the comparison between groups. The unpaired t test was used for the comparison of patients with different vision. Results: Compared with healthy eyes the injured eyes' amplitude of dark adaption FERG b-wave under the dark stimulation of 0.01 cd·s·m^-2 in alkaline ocular trauma, thermal burn, acid ocular trauma was (135±85), (169±55), and (112±43) versus (341±53) μV, respectively; compared with healthy eyes, the differences were statistically significant (F=31.38; q=8.94, 5.70， 5.45；all P<0.01). Compared with healthy eyes the injured eyes' amplitude of dark adaption FERG a-wave under the dark stimulation of 3.00 cd·s·m^-2 in alkaline ocular trauma, thermal burn, acid ocular trauma was (178±78), (172±35), and (99±53) versus (334±60) μV, respectively; compared with healthy eyes, the differences were statistically significant (F=24.33; q=7.04， 5.60， 5.80；all P<0.01). Compared with healthy eyes the injured eyes' amplitude of dark adaption FERG b-wave under the dark stimulation of 3.00 cd·s·m^-2 in alkaline ocular trauma, thermal burn, acid ocular trauma was (354±79), (342±77), and (352±201) versus (600±78) μV, respectively; compared with healthy eyes, the differences were statistically significant (F=27.68; q=8.11， 6.51， 4.48； all P<0.01). Compared with healthy eyes the injured eyes' amplitude of dark adaption FERG OPs under the dark stimulation of 3.00 cd·s·m^-2 in alkaline ocular trauma, thermal burn, acid ocular trauma was (97±54), (107±41), and (45±22) versus (206±32) μV, respectively; compared with healthy eyes, the differences were statistically significant (F=25.03; q=7.36， 5.13， 5.96； all P<0.01).There was no significant difference in FERG between patients with visual acuity≥0.2 and those with visual acuity<0.2 (P>0.05) after alkaline ocular trauma. Conclusions: By detecting the amplitude change of FERG wave form of chemical ocular trauma, in this study, the amplitude of FERG wave form in alkaline ocular trauma was generally decreased. It's suggested that alkaline ocular trauma can cause damage to the rod and cone systems of retinal. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2020, 56: 514-518).

NUDT21 Suppresses Breast Cancer Tumorigenesis Through Regulating CPSF6 Expression

Background

NUDT21, an RNA binding protein, has been reported to play an important role in the regulation of multiple biological responses. Detection of NUDT21 expression may lead to the identification of a novel marker for breast cancer.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical significance and functional role of NUDT21 in breast cancer.

Methods

The protein expression of NUDT21 was examined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in 100 paraffin-embedded, archived breast cancer samples and 100 benign breast tissues. Then, the correlations between the NUDT21 expression and clinicopathologic characteristics and prognoses of the breast cancer patients were analyzed. In addition, the function of NUDT21 in breast cancer cell lines was detected by the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium, colony formation and transwell assays. Finally, mass spectrometry analysis and Western blotting were used to identify the proteins that interact directly with NUDT21.

Results

IHC analysis revealed that the expression of NUDT21 was significantly lower in breast cancer tissues compared with benign breast disease tissues. The correlation analysis revealed that low expression of NUDT21 was positively correlated with tumor size, lymph node metastasis, and TNM stage. Also, Kaplan–Meier survival curves showed that patients with lower NUDT21 expression had shorter overall survival and relapse-free survival compared with higher NUDT21 expression. In addition, the knockdown of NUDT21 enhanced cell proliferation, migration, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Consistently, the overexpression of NUDT21 inhibited cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT. In addition, NUDT21 directly interacted with CPSF6 and negatively regulated its expression. Moreover, the knockdown of CPSF6 reversed NUDT21 expression-induced cancer cell migration and invasion.

Conclusion

NUDT21 might play a tumor-suppressive role by inhibiting cell proliferation and invasion via the NUDT21/CPSF6 signaling pathway in breast cancer cells.

[Clinical observation of electroretinogram examination in ocular alkali burn]

Objective: To investigate the wave variations of the electroretinography (ERG), and explore the clinical value of using ERG in alkali injury. Methods: A total of 13 patients with alkali burns who were treated in the Department of Ophthalmology of Peking University Third Hospital from May 2018 to October 2019 were selected, including 12 males and 1 female. The age ranged from 19 to 60 years old. A total of 15 injured eyes were used as the alkali burn group, meanwhile, another 15 contralateral eyes with mechanical unilateral trauma were used as the healthy controls. ERG examination was performed to compare the amplitudes of 6 activation-induced responses between the two groups. Results: Compared with control group, b-wave amplitude of dark adaption 0.01 ERG in alkali injury group decreased [(137±23) μV vs (348±14) μV, P<0.001]. Compared with control group [(335±17) μV and (368±19) μV], a-wave amplitude of dark adaption 3.0 ERG and 10.0 ERG in alkali injury groups [(172±20) μV and (220±21) μV] were decreased (both P<0.001). As for b-wave amplitude of dark adaption 3.0 ERG and 10.0 ERG, compared with control group [(610±20) μV and (612±19) μV], those of alkali injury groups [(359±21) μV and (384±21) μV] were decreased (both P<0.001). In terms of oscillatory potentials (OPs) amplitude of dark 3.0 ERG adaption, compared with control group [(209±8) μV], that of alkali injury group [(94±13) μV] was decreased (P<0.001). Compared with normal group [(58±3) μV], a-wave amplitude of light adaption 3.0 ERG in alkali injury group [(40±4) μV] was decreased (P<0.001). As for b-wave amplitude of light adaption 3.0 ERG, compared with control group [(146±6) μV], that of alkali injury group [(90±11) μV] was decreased (P<0.001). In terms of photopic 3.0 flicker 30 Hz of light adaption, compared with control group [(166±10) μV], that of alkali injury group [(93±11) μV] was decreased (P<0.001). Conclusion: Alkali injury can cause ocular surface morphological changes, meanwhile, it leads to the alternations of the visual function.

[Relationship between the suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 expression and antiviral efficacy of nucleos(t)ide and interferon alpha therapy for chronic hepatitis B]

Objective: To investigate the molecular mechanism of poor response of nucleoside and interferon therapy in some patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and the negative regulatory factor of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) expression in the interferon-signaling pathway. Also, study the clinical relationship between SOCS3 and antiviral efficacy of nucleoside and interferon. Methods: Peripheral blood and matched liver tissue samples from 54 CHB patients who participated in the OSST study were selected. HBsAg was measured at different time points (baseline and weeks 12, 24, 36, and 48) to observe the antiviral efficacy. Meanwhile, quantitative real-time PCR, and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expression levels of SOCS3 mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and matched liver tissues (baseline and 48 weeks). At the end of the 48-week treatment, patients with HBsAg negative or HBeAg seroconversion were defined as response group, and vice versa. Paired t-tests were used to compare normal distribution variables and the Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the median differences between groups of non-normally distributed variables. Results: After 48 weeks of treatment, serum HBsAg levels in the Peg-IFN group continued to decline (average decrease of 1.14 log(10) IU / ml at week 48; P = 0.001 compared with baseline), while the entecavir group remained almost unchanged during treatment (average decrease was 0.05 log(10) IU / ml at week 48; compared with baseline P = 0.12). The expression of SOCS3 mRNA (Messenger RNA, mRNA) in peripheral blood and liver tissues of non-responder group was significantly higher than the response group in the course of Peg-IFNα2a treatment. The immunohistochemical results of liver tissue showed that the expression of SOCS3 in the non-responder group was significantly higher than that in the response group at baseline (P = 0.027). After 48 weeks of treatment with Peg-IFNα2a, the expression of SOCS3 in the non-responder group was significantly higher than that in the baseline and response groups (P = 0.003, P = 0.012, respectively). Conclusion: The expression of SOCS3 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and liver tissues of non-responding CHB patients was significantly higher than that of responding CHB patients during interferon and nucleoside antiviral therapy. We speculated that SOCS3 might affect the antiviral efficacy through negative regulation of JAK-STAT signaling pathway, and partly expose the mechanism of interferon resistance.

Multistage Coupling of Laser-Wakefield Accelerators with Curved Plasma Channels

Multistage coupling of laser-wakefield accelerators is essential to overcome laser energy depletion for high-energy applications such as TeV-level electron-positron colliders. Current staging schemes feed subsequent laser pulses into stages using plasma mirrors while controlling electron beam focusing with plasma lenses. Here a more compact and efficient scheme is proposed to realize the simultaneous coupling of the electron beam and the laser pulse into a second stage. A partly curved channel, integrating a straight acceleration stage with a curved transition segment, is used to guide a fresh laser pulse into a subsequent straight channel, while the electrons continue straight. This scheme benefits from a shorter coupling distance and continuous guiding of the electrons in plasma while suppressing transverse beam dispersion. Particle-in-cell simulations demonstrate that the electron beam from a previous stage can be efficiently injected into a subsequent stage for further acceleration while maintaining high capture efficiency, stability, and beam quality.

[Influence of EDC ethanol solution on dentin shear bond strength with a self-etch adhesive system]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the bonding ability of one representative self-etch adhesive system by applying the micro-shear bond strength test method with different concentrations of carbodiimide [1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide, EDC] ethanol solution pretreatment.

METHODS

Extracted sound human third molars were collected from patients ranging 18 to 40 years. In the study, 80 molars were first sectioned to prepare a flat middle coronal dentin surface and then were randomly divided into 5 groups (n=16) according to without/with different surface treatments [blank control; 80% (volume fraction) ethanol control; EDC ethanol solution of three concentrations (0.01 mol/L, 0.3 mol/L and 0.5 mol/L)]. Each specimen underwent a micro-shear bond strength test and failure mode observation. The data collected were subjected to statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey's test to analyze the difference of the micro-shear bond strength, and chi-square test/Fisher's exact test for the failure mode frequency of the micro-shear bond strength test specimens at a significance level of P=0.05.

RESULTS

The micro-shear bond strength of the three concentration EDC treatments were (35.29±8.97) MPa (0.01 mol/L EDC treatment group), (40.24±9.68) MPa (0.3 mol/L EDC treatment group), (37.38±9.66) MPa (0.5 mol/L EDC treatment group) separately; and that of the 80% ethanol group was (37.49±7.76) MPa. All micro-shear bond strength value of the above four groups was statistically higher than that of the blank control group [(33.81±7.98) MPa]. The immediate micro-shear bond strength and failure mode was of no statistically significant difference among all the groups. It was noticed that the immediate micro-shear bond strength of 0.3 mol/L was higher than that of all the other groups, especially higher than that of the 80% ethanol pretreatment group despite that there was no significant difference among all the groups. And the test of failure mode indicated that the cohesive failure was more common, while the frequency of adhesive failure was rare in each experimental group.

CONCLUSION

EDC pretreatment had no adverse effect on the immediate micro-shear bond strengths of Clearfil SE Bond. Meanwhile, EDC treatment did not cause more adhesive failure in immediate micro-shear test, which had further denoted what was said above. However, it needs more research to illustrate the anti-enzymatic role of EDC in dentin bonding.

An Unfamiliar “Common” Skin Disease: Poison Ivy Allergic Contact Dermatitis

We present a case of phytodermatitis caused by a poisonous plant known as poison ivy. It is one of the leading causes of allergic contact dermatitis and it causes significant morbidity in the United States. Prevention of the disease is by identification and avoidance of the plant. Barrier protection minimises the chance of contact and prompt rinsing with soap water limits antigen exposure after skin contact. General approach to treatment of allergic contact dermatitis can be applied but special precaution should be taken on the duration of systemic steroid therapy. Too short a course of oral steroid may result in a more severe recurrent flare. High potency topical steroids may limit the development of skin lesions. (Hong Kong j.emerg.med. 2011; 18:335-338)

MiR-23a modulates X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis-mediated autophagy in human luminal breast cancer cell lines

Autophagy is a conserved multi-step lysosomal process that is induced by diverse stimuli including cellular nutrient deficiency. X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP) promotes cell survival and recently has been demonstrated to suppress autophagy. Herein, we examined regulation of XIAP-mediated autophagy in breast cancer cells and determined the underlying molecular mechanism. To investigate this process, autophagy of breast cancer cells was induced by Earle's balanced salt solution (EBSS). We observed discordant expression of XIAP mRNA and protein in the autophagic process induced by EBSS, suggesting XIAP may be regulated at a post-transcriptional level. By scanning several miRNAs potentially targeting XIAP, we observed that forced expression of miR-23a significantly decreased the expression of XIAP and promoted autophagy, wherever down-regulation of miR-23a increased XIAPexpression and suppressed autophagy in breast cancer cells. XIAP was confirmed as a direct target of miR-23a by reporter assay utilizing the 3'UTR of XIAP. In vitro, forced expression of miR-23a promoted autophagy, colony formation, migration and invasion of breast cancer cell by down-regulation of XIAP expression. However, miR-23a inhibited apoptosis of breast cancer cells independent of XIAP. Xenograft models confirmed the effect of miR-23a on expression of XIAP and LC3 and that miR-23a promoted breast cancer cell invasiveness. Therefore, our study demonstrates that miR-23a modulates XIAP-mediated autophagy and promotes survival and migration in breast cancer cells and hence provides important new insights into the understanding of the development and progression of breast cancer.

XIAP 3'-untranslated region as a ceRNA promotes FSCN1 function in inducing the progression of breast cancer by binding endogenous miR-29a-5p

The non-coding 3′-untranslated region (UTR) of genes play an important role in the regulation of microRNA (miRNA) functions, since it can bind and inactivate multiple miRNAs. Herein, we report that ectopic expression of XIAP 3′UTR increased human breast cancer cells proliferation, colony formation, migration, invasion and xenograft tumor growth and suppressed tumor cell death. To investigate this process, we further correlated the genome-wide transcriptional profiling with the gene expression alterations after transfecting XIAP 3′UTR in MCF-7 cells. We identified a robust, genome-wide mechanism of cell migration, motility and epithelial to mesenchymal transition by which mediated by a previously described cellular component movement factor FSCN1. Expression of XIAP and FSCN1 were up-regulated synergistically after transfecting XIAP 3′UTR in vitro and in vivo. Interactions between XIAP and FSCN1 appear to be a key determinant of these processes. Co-transfection with Dicer siRNA reversed the XIAP 3′UTR-mediated oncogenicity, suggesting the miRNAs might be involved in that process. Furthermore, we demonstrated that one miRNA, miR-29a-5p, can bind to both the XIAP and FSCN1 3′UTRs and play an important role in that interactions. We showed that the 3′UTR of XIAP was able to antagonize miR-29a-5p, and resulted in the increased translation of XIAP and FSCN1. Thus, our findings reveal important new insights into how XIAP 3′UTR works, suggesting that the non-coding XIAP 3′UTR serves as a competitor for miRNA binding and subsequently inactivates miRNA functions, by which XIAP 3′UTR frees the target mRNAs from being repressed.

XIAP 3'-untranslated region serves as a competitor for HMGA2 by arresting endogenous let-7a-5p in human hepatocellular carcinoma

X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein functions as an intrinsic regulator of apoptosis by inhibition of caspase activity and possesses a pivotal role in human cancer development and progression. A growing body of literature has demonstrated that microRNAs lead to the degradation or translational repression of messenger RNAs by binding to the non-coding region of messenger RNA at the 3'-untranslated region. Here, we revealed that the expression of HMGA2 is upregulated with X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein after transfection of X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein 3'-untranslated region in hepatocellular carcinoma cells, suggesting that X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein 3'-untranslated region serves as a competitor for microRNAs and prevent the co-targeted messenger RNA, HMGA2, from being suppressed. We further identified that let-7a-5p could bind to both the X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein 3'-untranslated region and HMGA2 3'-untranslated region. Moreover, we demonstrated that the forced expression of X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein 3'-untranslated region increases the oncogenicity of hepatocellular carcinoma cells in vitro. Cell functional analyses were performed to examine the association of HMGA2 status and X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein 3'-untranslated region. We have also measured the functional readout of let-7a-5p and HMGA2, an assay often employed to provide substantial evidence for the effects of X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein 3'-untranslated region on hepatocellular carcinoma cells. In general, our findings suggest that X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein 3'-untranslated region serves as a competitive endogenous RNA for HMGA2 to activate hepatocellular carcinoma progression by arresting endogenous let-7a-5p.

The effect of acupuncture on chemotherapy-associated gastrointestinal symptoms in gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal (gi) symptoms are the most notable side effects of chemotherapeutic drugs; such symptoms are currently treated with drugs. In the present study, we investigated the effect of acupuncture on gi symptoms induced by chemotherapy in patients with advanced gastric cancer.

METHODS

A cohort of 56 patients was randomly divided into an experimental group and a control group. All patients received combination chemotherapy with oxaliplatin-paclitaxel. Patients in the experimental group received 30 minutes of acupuncture therapy daily for 2 weeks. The frequency and duration of nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, the average days and costs of hospitalization, and quality-of-life scores were compared between the groups.

RESULTS

Nausea was sustained for 32 ± 5 minutes and 11 ± 3 minutes daily in the control and experimental groups respectively (p < 0.05). On average, vomiting occurred 2 ± 1 times daily in the experimental group and 4 ± 1 times daily in the control group (p < 0.05). Abdominal pain persisted for 7 ± 2 minutes and 16 ± 5 minutes daily in the experimental and control groups respectively (p < 0.05). On average, diarrhea occurred 1 ± 1 times daily in the experimental group and 3 ± 1 times daily in the control group (p < 0.05). The average quality-of-life score was higher in the experimental group than in the control group (p < 0.05). No adverse events were observed for the patients receiving acupuncture.

CONCLUSIONS

Acupuncture, a safe technique, could significantly reduce gi symptoms induced by chemotherapy and enhance quality of life in patients with advanced gastric cancer.

Analysis of symptom clusters in Chinese cervical cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy, chemoradiotherapy, or postoperative chemoradiotherapy

OBJECTIVE

To assess the common symptom clusters in cervical cancer patients treated with radiotherapy alone, chemorachothierapy, or postoperative chemoradiotherapy, and evaluate differences among multi-modality treatment in these symptom clusters.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ninety-three patients diagnosed with cervical cancer were recruited to the survey, in which destination time was the fourth friday of radiotherapy. Symptoms of patients were evaluated by the Chinese version of the 13-item M.D. Anderson Symptom Inventory (MDASI).

RESULTS

Among the symptoms, lack of appetite was the most common and the most severe symptome, treatment modalities may have important effects on symptom clusters in cervical cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.

CONCLUSION

The results offer valuable information for the future development treatment-based symptom cluster intervention.

Prolactin Inhibits BCL6 Expression in Breast Cancer Cells through a MicroRNA-339-5p-Dependent Pathway

PURPOSE

Prolactin (PRL) plays a critical role in breast cancer progression by activating its cognate receptor and promotes the growth and differentiation of breast cancer cells. Studies have shown that B-cell lymphoma 6 (BCL6) is the target gene of microRNA-339-5p (miR-339-5p) and that BCL6 expression contributes to breast cancer progression. Herein, we identified PRL as a potent suppressor of BCL6 expression in human breast cancer cells.

METHODS

Western blotting and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were used to investigate molecular mechanisms underlying miR-339-5p expression and BCL6 manipulation in MCF-7, T47D, and SKBR3 breast cancer cells. Phenotypic changes in these breast cancer cell lines were assessed by performing cell viability (MTT), colony formation, migration, and invasion assays.

RESULTS

PRL suppressed BCL6 protein and mRNA expression and upregulated miR-339-5p expression in MCF-7 and T47D breast cancer cells. Selective downregulation of miR-339-5p expression significantly reversed PRL-induced suppression of BCL6 mRNA and protein expression. Exogenous PRL stimulation significantly decreased the proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion of breast cancer cells, and suppression of miR-339-5p expression reversed these processes in vitro.

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that PRL inhibited BCL6 expression and regulated breast cancer progression through a miR-339-5p-dependent pathway.

Impact of asthma, exposure period, and filters on human responses during exposures to ozone and its initiated chemistry products

The impact of asthma, exposure period, and filter condition downstream of the mixing box of air-conditioning system on building occupants' perceptual response, work performance, and salivary α-amylase secretion during exposures to ozone and its initiated chemistry products is studied. The experiments were conducted in a field environmental chamber (FEC) (240 m(3)) simulating an office environment. Experiments were conducted during periods when the air-handling system operated with new or used pleated panel filters at constant recirculation (7/h) and ventilation (1/h) rates. Average ozone and secondary organic aerosols (ozone-initiated chemistry products) measured during non-asthmatic and asthmatic subjects' 3-h exposures in the FEC were in the ranges approximately 20-37 ppb and approximately 1.6-3 μg/m(3), respectively. Asthmatic subjects' perceived odor intensity and sensory (eye, nose, and throat) irritation ratings were generally lower than those of non-asthmatic subjects, possibly explaining why asthmatic subjects accept perceived air quality more than non-asthmatic subjects. However, asthmatic subjects' perceived physiological-like symptom ratings (flu, chest tightness, and headache) and concentrations of secreted salivary α-amylase were generally higher than those of non-asthmatic subjects. Asthmatic subjects had significantly lower accuracy than non-asthmatic subjects in a task that required higher concentration although they had higher work speed. Filter condition did not make any significant difference for subjects' responses.

Loss of suppressors of cytokine signaling 3 promotes aggressiveness in hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers with a high mortality rate. Constitutive activation of STAT3 is found in various types of tumors, including HCC. In addition, suppressors of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) signals for negative feedback to STATs, and is found to be inversely correlated with STAT3 expression. However, the exact role of SOCS3 in the tumorigenesis and progression of HCC is not fully understood. In this study we intended to show that SOCS3 inhibition promotes proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells. HepG2, a human HCC cell line, was grown with SOCS3 siRNA or negative control (NC) transfection to assess the involvement of SOCS3 in cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by MTT, migration, and invasion assays, respectively. Western blot analysis was performed to examine the expression of STAT3, SOCS3, c-myc, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, and MMP-9 after transfection with either SOCS3 or NC siRNAs. A diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced HCC mouse model was assessed with or without injection of NSC 74859, a STAT3 inhibitor, to show accompanied changes among the expressions of STAT3, SOCS3, c-myc, MMP-2, and MMP-9. Inhibition of SOCS3 expression promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HepG2 cells and increased the expression of c-myc, MMP-2, and MMP-9. HCC tumors developed in mice by DEN-induction with administration of NSC 74859 resulted in decreased expression of c-myc, MMP-2, and MMP-9, but not SOCS3. Loss of SOCS3 increased tumor growth, migration, and invasion and resulted in accompanied changes in expression of STAT3 and its target oncoproteins.

[Investigation on current status of infections of soil-borne nematodes in Yunxiao County]

OBJECTIVE

To understand the endemic situation of soil-borne nematodes and their distribution characteristics, so as to provide the evidence for formulating prevention strategy.

METHODS

According to The Survey Program of Important Human Parasitic Diseases in Fujian Province, the survey spots were determined by the stratified cluster randomly sampling method. The eggs of Ascaris lurmbricoides, hookworm and Trichuris trichiura in feces were detected by Kato-Katz technique; the eggs of Enterobius vermnicularis were checked by rectal swabs using transparent adhesive tape. A questionnaire survey was performed for recording the gender, age, education levels and related epidemiological factors.

RESULTS

Altogether 2002 residents in 21 villages of 4 towns were investigated. There were 169 residents infected with soil-borne nematodes (8.44%). The infection rates of hookworm, Trichuris trichiura and Ascaris lumbricoides were 4.35%, 1.70% and 0.15% respectively. The infection rate of Enterobius vermicularis was 13.48% (43/319) in children. The infection rates of soil-borne nematodes were higher in children aged below 7 years and residents aged above 45 years, and the infection rate was higher in the women than in the men. The infection rates 'vere negative correlated with the education levels.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of soil-borne nematodes has a reduction trend in Yunxiao County. However, the infection rate of hookworm is still high in areas of mainly planting economic crops. The infection rate of Enterobius vermicularis is still high in children, and we should pay more attention to it.

Prognostic significance of the expression of GFRα1, GFRα3 and syndecan-3, proteins binding ARTEMIN, in mammary carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Artemin (ARTN) has been implicated in promoting oncogenicity, tumor growth and invasiveness in diverse human malignancies. However, the clinical and prognostic significance of upstream ligand binding components, potentially mediating ARTN oncogenicity, largely remain to be determined.

METHODS

We determined the mRNA and protein expression of three proteins demonstrated to bind ARTN, namely GFRα1, GFRα3 and syndecan-3 (SDC3), in benign breast disease and mammary carcinoma by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Their prognostic significance combined with ARTN expression was also investigated in mammary carcinoma.

RESULTS

The expression of GFRα1 and GFRα3, but not SDC3, was significantly increased in mammary carcinoma and positively associated with tumor lymph node metastases, higher clinical stage and HER-2 positivity. Moreover, both GFRα1 and GFRα3 expression were significantly associated with survival outcome of patients with mammary carcinoma by univariate and multivariate analyses, whereas expression of SDC3 was not. Co-expression of ARTN with either GFRα1 or GFRα3, but not SDC3, produced synergistic increases in the odds ratio for both relapse-free and overall survival in patients with mammary carcinoma. Furthermore, significant association of GFRα1 and GFRα3 expression with survival outcome observed herein were restricted to ER negative or HER-2 negative mammary carcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

The expression of GFRα1 and/or GFRα3, especially when combined with ARTN expression, may be useful predictors of disease progression and outcome in specific subtypes of mammary carcinoma.

STAT3 activation in monocytes accelerates liver cancer progression

Background

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is an important transcription factor ubiquitously expressed in different cell types. STAT3 plays an essential role in cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation. Aberrantly hyper-activated STAT3 signaling in cancer cells and in the tumor microenvironment has been detected in a wide variety of human cancers and is considered an important factor for cancer initiation, development, and progression. However, the role of STAT3 activation in monocytes in the development of HCC has not been well understood.

Methods

Immunohistochemical analysis of phosphorylated STAT3 was performed on tissue microarray from HCC patients. Using a co-culture system in vivo, HCC cell growth was determined by the MTT assay. In vivo experiments were conducted with mice given diethylinitrosamine (DEN), which induces HCC was used to investigate the role of STAT3 expression in monocytes on tumor growth. Real-time PCR was used to determine the expression of cell proliferation and cell arrest associated genes in the tumor and nontumor tissue from liver.

Results

Phosphorylated STAT3 was found in human hepatocellular carcinoma tissue samples and was expressed in tumor cells and also in monocytes. Phosphorylated STAT3 expression in monocyte was significantly correlated to advanced clinical stage of HCC and a poor prognosis. Using a co-culture system in vivo, monocytes promoted HCC cell growth via the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway. The STAT3 inhibitor, NSC 74859, significantly suppressed tumor growth in vivo in mice with diethylinitrosamine (DEN)-induced HCC. In this animal model, blockade of STAT3 with NSC 74859 induced tumor cell apoptosis, while inhibiting both tumor cells and monocytes proliferation. Furthermore, NSC 74859 treatment suppressed cancer associated inflammation in DEN-induce HCC.

Conclusion

Our data suggest constitutively activated STAT3 monocytes promote liver tumorigenesis in clinical patients and animal experiments. Thus, STAT3 in tumor infiltrating inflammatory cells may an attractive target for liver cancer therapy.

Inserting the tunneller during an outside-in transobturator tape procedure by syringe-needle guidance

The objective of this study was to determine the feasibility of a novel syringe-needle guidance technique (SNG), and its impact on the perioperative variables and outcomes of patients undergoing an outside-in transobturator tape procedure (TOT). Between November 2006 and May 2008, 48 consecutive women who underwent TOT with SNG were included. Another 25 women without SNG between March 2004 and October 2006 were included as a historical control. There were no significant differences in hospital stays and complication rates between the two groups. However, the operating time was shorter (mean 23.0 vs 28.3 min, p=0.008) in the SNG group than in the control group. The presence of the SNG technique was the sole predictor of the operating time (p=0.003). In conclusion, the SNG technique is a feasible method to provide help in inserting the tunneller of TOT through the transobturator foramen, and did not compromise the outcome.

Prognostic significance of phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 and suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma

Altered expression of phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (pSTAT3) and suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) has been implicated in various types of human cancers. However, the clinical role of pSTAT3 and SOCS3 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is not well established. Immunohistochemical analysis of pSTAT3, SOCS3, Ki67 and VEGF expression was performed on tissue microarrays from 138 HCC patients. The expression of STAT3 mRNA was further detected by in situ hybridization. The association of pSTAT3 and SOCS3 expression with clinicopathological factors and patient survival was analyzed. Altered expression of pSTAT3 and SOCS3 was observed in HCC specimens, compared to adjacent non-tumor tissue. Increased expression of pSTAT3 was correlated with large tumor size, higher clinical stage, Ki67 and VEGF expression, as well as poor patient survival. Decreased expression of SOCS3 was correlated with the expression of Ki67, VEGF and pSTAT3, and poor patient survival. Moreover, the expression of pSTAT3 was conversely correlated with SOCS3 expression in HCC. Our results indicate that deregulated expression of pSTAT3 and SOCS3 may play roles in the development and progression of HCC. PSTAT3 and SOCS3 should be further evaluated as potential novel biomarkers for HCC prognosis.

[Effects of irrigation with treated wastewater on nutrient distribution in cucumber and tomato plants and their fruit quality]

A field experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of irrigation with treated wastewater on the nutrient distribution in cucumber and tomato plants and their fruit quality. Irrigation with treated wastewater promoted tomato growth significantly, but had definite inhibition effect on cucumber growth. After the irrigation with treated wastewater, the nitrogen in plants had the characteristics of upward translocation, potassium was easily to be accumulated in cucumber leaf but not accumulated in tomato root, and sodium was mostly accumulated in root but less enriched in leaf, not giving damage to the plants. No significant effects were observed on the distribution of calcium, magnesium, and chlorine in plants. Under the irrigation with treated wastewater, the overall quality of cucumber and tomato fruits was less affected. The nitrate concentration in cucumber and tomato fruits was increased by 5.3% and 32.9%, respectively, but still lower than the state food safety standard of China.

Generalized reticulated hyperpigmentation induced by lichen planus

A 68-year-old Chinese woman presented with generalized reticulated dark-brown hyperpigmentation on the trunk, face and limbs, oral Wickham's striae, sparse scalp hair and dark-red reticulated streaks on the occiput of the head and on the neck, some dark-red to violaceous papules on the face, scalp and flanks, light-yellow, deep-seated papules on the palms and soles, and small porcelain-white papules on the dorsal and lateral fingers. The histological features were consistent with the diagnosis of lichen planus (LP). To our knowledge, LP-induced generalized reticulated hyperpigmentation is very rare and this is the first report of the clinical features on the fingers, palms and soles.

A review on adolescent childbearing in Taiwan: its characteristics, outcomes and risks

In Taiwan, the age-specific fertility rate for adolescent girls aged 15-19 years has remained at 14-18/1,000 births during the past two decades, which is the highest among developed countries in Asia. There was a surprisingly high age-specific fertility rate for married women aged 15-19 years at 726 per 1,000 in 1994, much higher than that of the United States. Adolescent childbearing causes many adverse outcomes including unwanted and unstable marriage, repeated childbearing during adolescence, and increased risks of having low birth weight and preterm births and neonatal mortality. Studies in Taiwan showed that adolescent childbearing is associated with their poor knowledge but open attitude and behaviour on sexuality, the inadequate contraceptive services for the adolescents in need, some risk-taking behaviors, family dysfunction and low socioeconomic status of the adolescents' families. About two-thirds of the fathers of infants born to adolescent girls were adults, even old adults with a low education level Effective strategies for adolescent childbearing prevention range from sex education, the direct provision of contraceptive supplies, and to life options programmes, especially for the adolescents with high risk of adolescent pregnancy. Reducing the incidence of adolescent childbearing by active use of contraception is more important and practical than prohibiting adolescent sexual activity.

Effect of genotoxic exposure to chromium among electroplating workers in Taiwan

The objective of this study was to investigate the association between chromium (Cr) concentrations and sister chromatid exchanges (SCE) formation in Cr workers and to assess the effects of susceptible genes (glutathione S-transferase M1 and T1) on the frequency of deletion and SCE/cell. Urinary Cr concentration was significantly elevated in Cr workers (3.67 +/- 3.89 microg/g creatinine) compared to control group (1.21 +/- 1.16 microg/g creatinine, P < 0.01). There was also a significant difference of superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels between Cr workers (6.86 +/- 0.80 U/mg Hb) and controls (7.16 +/- 0.53 U/mg Hb, P < 0.01). The frequencies of SCE and high frequency cells (HFC) were significantly correlated with smoking habits and with duration of exposure to Cr. A significantly higher percentage (50%) of Cr workers had both the null GSTM1 and GSTT1 genotype as compared to 10% of the controls (P < 0.01). However, the chromosomal DNA damage effect of GSTM1 and GSTT1 genotypes, individually or in combination, was not revealed in Cr exposed workers.

Apoptosis induced by isoliquiritigenin in human gastric cancer MGC-803 cells

Isoliquiritigenin, which is possibly a principal anti-tumor constituent of licorice, a traditional Chinese herb, was examined for apoptosis-inducing activity in human gastric cancer MGC-803 cells. Typical morphological and biochemical features of apoptosis including cell shrinkage, chromatin condensation, DNA ladder formation, and appearance of apoptotic peaks (subG(1)) were observed in MGC-803 cells with isoliquiritigenin treatment. Using Fluo-3 and Rh123 as fluorescent probes, respectively, it was found that the intracellular free calcium concentration increased and the mitochondrial transmembrane potential (Deltapsi(m)) decreased in a dose-dependent manner in apoptotic cells. These results suggest that isoliquiritigenin induced apoptosis of MGC-803 cells through calcium- and Deltapsi(m)-dependent pathways, indicating that it is potentially useful as a natural anti-cancer agent.

Large drug resistance virulence plasmids of clinical isolates of Salmonella enterica serovar Choleraesuis

Salmonella enterica serovar Choleraesuis generally causes systemic human salmonellosis without diarrhea, and therefore, antimicrobial treatment is essential for such patients. The drug resistance information on this organism is thus of high value. Serovar Choleraesuis usually harbors a virulence plasmid (pSCV) of 50 kb in size. Of the 16 clinical isolates identified to be serovar Choleraesuis, all except one harbored a pSCV and seven of them carried a pSCV of more than 125 kb in size. A pSCV was defined as a plasmid carrying spvC and characteristic deletions detected by PCR and by DNA-DNA hybridization (for the former criterion). The results of PCR, restriction fragment profiles, and Southern DNA-DNA hybridizations of the profiles all indicated that such larger pSCVs were derived from the 50-kb plasmid recombined with non-pSCVs found in some clinical isolates. Fifteen of the 17 strains, including a laboratory strain, were then tested for drug resistance against 16 antibiotics with E-test and the dilution method. The laboratory strain, which harbored a 50-kb pSCV and a 6-kb non-pSCV, was resistant only to sulfonamides (SUL), and its resistance gene, sulII, checked with PCR and DNA-DNA hybridization, was located on the 6-kb non-pSCV. All 14 clinical strains were resistant to multiple drugs. Of the 14, 7 were resistant to SUL, and the resistance gene was located on a plasmid. The sulII gene, but not bla(TEM-1), was carried only on the 6-kb non-pSCV. Of the remaining six large plasmids, three of 90 kb, two of 136 kb, and one of 140 kb, the last three were pSCVs and carried the other SUL gene (sulI) and the bla(TEM-1) gene. The six strains were also resistant to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. None of the 50-kb pSCVs carried resistance genes. These drug resistance genes on the large pSCVs were apparently also acquired through recombination.

Two-photon laser scanning microscopy of epithelial cell-modulated collagen density in engineered human lung tissue

Tissue remodeling is a complex process that can occur in response to a wound or injury. In lung tissue, abnormal remodeling can lead to permanent structural changes that are characteristic of important lung diseases such as interstitial pulmonary fibrosis and bronchial asthma. Fibroblast-mediated contraction of three-dimensional collagen gels is considered an in vitro model of tissue contraction and remodeling, and the epithelium is one factor thought to modulate this process. We studied the effects of epithelium on collagen density and contraction using two-photon laser scanning microscopy (TPLSM). TPLSM was used to image autofluorescence of collagen fibers in an engineered tissue model of the human respiratory mucosa -- a three-dimensional co-culture of human lung fibroblasts (CCD-18 lu), denatured type I collagen, and a monolayer of human alveolar epithelial cell line (A549) or human bronchial epithelial cell line (16HBE14o(-)). Tissues were imaged at days 1, 8, and 15 at 10 depths within the tissue. Gel contraction was measured concurrently with TPLSM imaging. Image analysis shows that gels without an epithelium had the fastest rate of decay of fluorescent signal, corresponding to highest collagen density. Results of the gel contraction assay show that gels without an epithelium also had the highest degree of contraction (19.8% +/- 4.0%). We conclude that epithelial cells modulate collagen density and contraction of engineered human lung tissue, and TPLSM is an effective tool to investigate this phenomenon.

[A controlled clinical study between hepatic arterial infusion with embolized curcuma aromatic oil and chemical drugs in treating primary liver cancer]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness, toxicity and prospective application of hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) with Embolized Curcuma Aromatic oil (CAO) in treating primary liver cancer (PLC).

METHODS

In the treated group, 32 patients with PLC were treated by HAI with 1-3 ml of embolized CAO and oral administration of Chinese herbal medicine. In the control group, 32 patients with PLC were treated with transcatheter artery chemoembolization (TACE).

RESULTS

In the treated group, one patient attained complete remission (CR) and 13 partial remission (PR), the total effective rate being 43.75%. The level of alpha fetal protein (AFP) turned to normal range in 7 cases and decreased in other 7. In the control group, 10 obtained PR and the total effective rate being 31.25%, AFP level turned to normal in 5 and decreased in 2. There was no statistical significance between the two groups. The incidences of post-embolism syndrome, such as fever, abdominal pain and vomiting were similar between the two groups but no myelosuppression occurred in the treated group with significant difference (P < 0.01) as comparing with that in the control group. The mean survival time, median survival time, 1-, 2- and 3-year survival rate in the treated group was 11.5 months, 10 months, 37.5%, 13.3% and 6.9% respectively, while in the control group was 7.25 months, 6 months, 15.6%, 3.2% and 0 respectively. The treated group was better in mean survival time, median survival time and 1-year survival rate than that of the control group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

HAI with embolized CAO showed a similar favorite effect in treating PLC as that of TACE, but superior than TACE with longer survival time and milder myelosuppression.

Synthesis of a polymeric 4-N-linked sialoside which inhibits influenza virus hemagglutinin

A multiple sialic acid-bearing polymer 7 has been made in which a novel 4-N-substituted sialoside 5 has been coupled to polyacrylamide. The conjugate 7 has been found to inhibit the agglutination of influenza virus to red blood cells with HAI inhibition constants of around 10(-6) M, based on the sialic acid concentration.

Cytogenetic study of workers exposed to chromium compounds

The frequency of sister chromatid exchanges (SCEs), high SCE frequency cells (HFCs), and genetic polymorphism of genotypes glutathione S-transferase (GST) M1 and T1 were analyzed in peripheral lymphocytes of 35 workers occupationally exposed to chromium (Cr) and 35 matched control group. Results showed that workers exposed to Cr showed 6.07 SCE/cell, as compared to 4.76 SCE/cell for the control group (p<0.01). Smokers showed a statistically significant higher frequency of SCE than non-smokers in both groups. The work duration of Cr workers was an important factor. Workers exposed for more than 5 years showed a significantly higher level of SCEs (p<0.05). Workers exposed to Cr for 5 or more years had higher HFC rates (51.4%) than those exposed for less than 5 years (22.9%), with an odds ratio of 4.5 times than those exposed for less than 5 years. In HFC analysis, Cr workers who smoked showed a higher level of HFC (60%) than the control group (5.7%) and also had a higher odds ratio (60.4) compared with the control group. Among non-smokers, the odds ratio was 9.0. Another objective of this study is to investigate the relationship between SCE and genetic polymorphisms of GST M1 and T1 in Cr workers. The results showed that the incidence of GSTM1 null genotype was 60% in the control group and 77.1% in Cr workers, and percentages of GSTT1 deletion were 42.9% and 62.9% in control and exposed individuals, respectively. There was a slightly increased frequency of SCE among Cr workers with GSTM1 null genotype as opposed to non-null genotype individuals. A similar result was seen among the control group; however, there were no statistically significant differences. In conclusion, the current study found the positive induction of SCE in workers who smoked or/and were exposed to Cr. However, different GST genotypes did not influence the level of cytogenetic damage between groups. Despite slight variation in numbers, they all appear to be not different.

Two-dimensional object recognition through two-stage string matching

A two-stage string matching method for the recognition of two-dimensional (2-D) objects is proposed in this work. The first stage is a global cyclic string matching. The second stage is a local matching with local dissimilarity measure computing. The dissimilarity measure function of the input shape and the reference shape are obtained by combining the global matching cost and the local dissimilarity measure. The proposed method has the advantage that there is no need to set any parameter in the recognition process. Experimental results indicate that the hostage string matching approach significantly improves the recognition rates compared to the one-stage string matching method.

A cross-cultural validation of coping strategies and their associations with caregiving distress

Coping strategies were compared among family caregivers of Alzheimer's disease patients in Shanghai, China (n = 110) and San Diego, California (n = 139). Four coping factors were reliably consistent in both samples, supporting their widespread relevance to life adversity; behavioral confronting, behavioral distancing/social support, cognitive confronting, and cognitive distancing. Shanghai and San Diego caregivers endorsed similar rates of coping, but Shanghai caregivers reported fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety. Although coping strategies were similar, cultural ideals promoting family interdependence, veneration of elderly family members, and acceptance of traditional family roles may have reduced the psychological impacts of caregiving in the Shanghai sample.

A study of the active site of influenza virus sialidase: an approach to the rational design of novel anti-influenza drugs

The development of sialidase inhibitor-based potential anti-influenza drugs using rational drug design techniques has been of recent interest. The present study details as investigation of the active site of influenza virus sialidase by using the program GRID in an attempt to design more potent inhibitors in the hope they will eventually lead to anti-influenza drugs. A number of different probes (amino, carboxy, hydroxy, methyl, etc) have been used in an effort to determine the functional groups most likely to improve the binding of the starting template 2-deoxy-2,3-didehydro-N-acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5Ac2en). The data have correctly predicted the binding regions for the carboxylate, acetamido (NH and methyl), and glycerol (OH) groups of N-acetylneuraminic acid. Moreover, the data suggest that the addition of certain functionalities (amino group) at the C-4 position should enhance the overall binding.

Analysis of the double-stranded RNA genome segments among avian reovirus field isolates

Nine isolates of avian reovirus (ARV) from both healthy birds and birds with different clinical illness and one commercially available vaccine strain were selected and characterized by analysis of the migration pattern of their genomic double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) segments following separation by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Different electropherotypes were observed and analyzed. The results show that the dsRNA segments of ARV were markedly polymorphic among isolates within the same serotype as well as among different serotypes. The results also show no correlation between electropherotype and disease state.

National field trial of the Chinese classification and diagnostic criteria of mental disorders: comprehensibility, acceptability and applicability

The Chinese Neurology and Psychiatry Association conducted a national field trial of its Chinese Classification and Diagnostic Criteria of Mental Disorders (CCMD-2) involving 26 provinces and municipalities, 80 psychiatric institutes, and 224 professionals. The results were as follows: (1) 95.2% of researchers considered the comprehensibility of the CCMD-2 diagnostic criteria good. Within the ten major categories, comprehensibility ranged from 85.7% to 100%. (2) Of those surveyed concerning the acceptability of the CCMD-2 diagnostic criteria, 85.9% considered them acceptable. In individual classifications, the rate ranged from 74.1% to 95.2%. (3) 1498 cases were tested. The overall applicability rate which indicated the consistency between the CCMD-2 result and the actual clinical diagnoses was found to be 87.6%, (averaging Kappa = 0.82, P < 0.01), better than those obtained from non-Chinese systems of diagnosis.

Rational design of potent sialidase-based inhibitors of influenza virus replication

Two potent inhibitors based on the crystal structure of influenza virus sialidase have been designed. These compounds are effective inhibitors not only of the enzyme, but also of the virus in cell culture and in animal models. The results provide an example of the power of rational, computer-assisted drug design, as well as indicating significant progress in the development of a new therapeutic or prophylactic treatment for influenza infection.

Inhibition of sialidases from viral, bacterial and mammalian sources by analogues of 2-deoxy-2,3-didehydro-N-acetylneuraminic acid modified at the C-4 position

The inhibition of sialidase activity from influenza viruses A and B, parainfluenza 2 virus, Vibrio cholerae, Arthrobacter ureafaciens, Clostridium perfringens, and sheep liver by a range of 2-deoxy-2,3-didehydro-N-acetylneuraminic acid analogues modified at the C-4 position has been studied. All substitutions tested resulted in a decrease in the degree of inhibition of the bacterial and mammalian sialidases. For sialidases from influenza viruses A and B, on the other hand, most of the substitutions tested either had no significant effect on binding or, in the case of the basic amino and guanidino substituents, resulted in significantly stronger inhibition. The results for parainfluenza 2 virus sialidase were mostly intermediate, in that inhibition was neither significantly increased nor decreased by most of the modifications. We conclude that only the influenza A and B sialidase active sites possess acid groups correctly positioned to participate in charge-charge interactions in the region of C-4 of bound substrate, and that the C-4 binding pockets of the bacterial and mammalian sialidases examined are considerably smaller than is observed for either the influenza virus or parainfluenza virus sialidases.