The MBD-ACD DNA methylation reader complex recruits MICRORCHIDIA6 to regulate ribosomal RNA gene expression in Arabidopsis

DNA methylation is an important epigenetic mark implicated in selective rRNA gene expression, but the DNA methylation readers and effectors remain largely unknown. Here, we report a protein complex that reads DNA methylation to regulate variant-specific 45S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene expression in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). The complex, consisting of METHYL-CpG-BINDING DOMAIN PROTEIN5 (MBD5), MBD6, ALPHA-CRYSTALLIN DOMAIN PROTEIN15.5 (ACD15.5), and ACD21.4, directly binds to 45S rDNA. While MBD5 and MBD6 function redundantly, ACD15.5 and ACD21.4 are indispensable for variant-specific rRNA gene expression. These 4 proteins undergo phase separation in vitro and in vivo and are interdependent for their phase separation. The α-crystallin domain of ACD15.5 and ACD21.4, which is essential for their function, enables phase separation of the complex, likely by mediating multivalent protein interactions. The effector MICRORCHIDIA6 directly interacts with ACD15.5 and ACD21.4, but not with MBD5 and MBD6, and is recruited to 45S rDNA by the MBD-ACD complex to regulate variant-specific 45S rRNA expression. Our study reveals a pathway in Arabidopsis through which certain 45S rRNA gene variants are silenced, while others are activated.

Bioactivity and genome analysis of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens GL18 isolated from the rhizosphere of Kobresia myosuroides in an alpine meadow

The unique eco-environment of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau breeds abundant microbial resources. In this research, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens GL18, isolated from the rhizosphere of Kobresia myosuroides from an alpine meadow, and the antagonistic activity, bacteriostatic hydrolase activity, and low temperature, salt, and drought resistance of it were determined and analysed. The seedlings of Avena sativa were root-irrigated using bacteria suspensions (cell concentration 1 × 107 cfu/mL) of GL18, and the growth-promoting effect of GL18 on it was determined under cold, salt and drought stress, respectively. The whole genome of GL18 was sequenced, and its functional genes were analysed. GL18 presented significant antagonistic activity to Fusarium graminearum, Fusarium acuminatum, Fusarium oxysporum and Aspergillus niger (inhibition zone diameter > 17 mm). Transparent zones formed on four hydrolase detection media, indicating that GL18 secreted cellulase, protease, pectinase and β-1,3-glucanase. GL18 tolerated conditions of 10 °C, 11% NaCl and 15% PEG-6000, presenting cold, salt and drought resistance. GL18 improved the cold, salt and drought tolerance of A. sativa and it showed significant growth effects under different stress. The total length of the GL18 genome was 3,915,550 bp, and the number of coding DNA sequence was 3726. Compared with the clusters of orthologous groups of proteins, gene ontology and kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes databases, 3088, 2869 and 2357 functional genes were annotated, respectively. GL18 contained gene clusters related to antibacterial substances, functional genes related to the synthesis of plant growth-promoting substances, and encoding genes related to stress resistance. This study identified an excellent Bacillus strain and provided a theoretical basis for improving stress resistance and promoting the growth of herbages under abiotic stress.

The economic burden of coronary heart disease in mainland China

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to systematically evaluate the current economic burden of coronary heart disease (CHD) in mainland China and provide a reference for the formulation of policies to reduce the economic burden of CHD.

STUDY DESIGN

A systematic literature review was conducted of empirical studies on the economic burden of CHD over the past 20 years.

METHODS

PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database and the WANFANG database were comprehensively searched for relevant articles published between 1 January 2000 and 22 December 2021. Content analysis was used to extract the data, and Stata 17.0 software was used for analysis. The median values were used to describe trends.

RESULTS

A total of 35 studies were included in this review. The annual median per-capita hospitalisation expense and the average expense per hospitalisation were $3544.40 ($891.64-$18,371.46) and $5407.34 ($1139.93-$8277.55), respectively. The median ratio on medical consumables expenses, drug expenses, medical examination expenses and treatment expenses were 41.59% (12.40%-63.73%), 26.90% (7.30%-60.00%), 9.45% (1.65%-33.40%) and 10.10% (2.36%-66.00%), respectively. The median per-capita hospitalisation expense in the eastern, central and western regions were $9374.45 ($2056.13-$18,371.46), $4751.5 ($2951.95-$8768.93) and $3251.25 ($891.64-$13,986.38), respectively. The median average expense per hospitalisation in the eastern and central regions were $6177.15 ($1679.15-$8277.55) and $1285.49 ($1239.93-$2197.36), respectively. The median average length of stay in the eastern, central and western regions were 9.3 days, 15.2 days and 16.1 days, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The economic burden of CHD is more severe in mainland China than in developed countries, especially in terms of the direct economic burden. In terms of the types of direct medical expenses, a proportion of medical examination expenses, treatment expenses and drug expenses were lowest in the eastern region, but medical consumables expenses were the highest in this region. This study provides guidance for the formulation of policies to reduce the economic burden of CHD in mainland China.

MBD3 Regulates Male Germ Cell Division and Sperm Fertility in Arabidopsis thaliana

DNA methylation plays important roles through the methyl-CpG-binding domain (MBD) to realize epigenetic modifications. Thirteen AtMBD proteins have been identified from the Arabidopsis thaliana genome, but the functions of some members are unclear. AtMBD3 was found to be highly expressed in pollen and seeds and it preferably binds methylated CG, CHG, and unmethylated DNA sequences. Then, two mutant alleles at the AtMBD3 locus were obtained in order to further explore its function using CRISPR/Cas9. When compared with 92.17% mature pollen production in the wild type, significantly lower percentages of 84.31% and 78.91% were observed in the mbd3-1 and mbd3-2 mutants, respectively. About 16-21% of pollen from the mbd3 mutants suffered a collapse in reproductive transmission, whereas the other pollen was found to be normal. After pollination, about 16% and 24% of mbd3-1 and mbd3-2 mutant seeds underwent early or late abortion, respectively. Among all the late abortion seeds in mbd3-2 plants, 25% of the abnormal seeds were at the globular stage, 31.25% were at the transition stage, and 43.75% were at the heart stage. A transcriptome analysis of the seeds found 950 upregulated genes and 1128 downregulated genes between wild type and mbd3-2 mutants. Some transcriptional factors involved in embryo development were selected to be expressed, and we found significant differences between wild type and mbd3 mutants, such as WOXs, CUC1, AIB4, and RGL3. Furthermore, we found a gene that is specifically expressed in pollen, named PBL6. PBL6 was found to directly interact with AtMBD3. Our results provide insights into the function of AtMBD3 in plants, especially in sperm fertility.

MRI manifestations of central nervous system leukaemia and cytological analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid

AIM

To investigate the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features and explore the value of MRI in the diagnosis of central nervous system leukaemia (CNSL).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective study was performed in 68 patients with leukaemia who underwent cranial MRI between January 2020 and June 2022 at Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital.

RESULTS

A total of 33 patients fulfilled the requirements for inclusion. The findings showed that 87.9% patients exhibited neurological symptoms, and 23 patients showed abnormal MRI findings. No differences were observed between the MRI+ and MRI- groups in terms of age, sex, neurological symptoms, glucose in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), chloride in the CSF, abnormal cells detected using conventional cytology (CC), bone marrow status at the diagnosis of CNSL, signal intensity ratio, and mortality, except for protein concentration and the number of leukaemic cells detected using flow cytometry (FCM) in the CSF. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis in patients with leukaemia revealed no statistical differences in the median survival times between the MRI+ group and MRI- group. Cox regression analysis and multivariate analysis showed no significant difference in survival rate between the MRI+ and MRI- groups. Kappa consistency test shows weak diagnostic consistency between MRI and CC, and weak diagnostic inconsistency between MRI and FCM.

CONCLUSION

MRI could serve as an important complementary tool to CC and FCM in the diagnosis of CNSL, especially in patients without leptomeningeal involvement.

A novel gene REPTOR2 activates the autophagic degradation of wing disc in pea aphid

Wing dimorphism in insects is an evolutionarily adaptive trait to maximize insect fitness under various environments, by which the population could be balanced between dispersing and reproduction. Most studies concern the regulatory mechanisms underlying the stimulation of wing morph in aphids, but relatively little research addresses the molecular basis of wing loss. Here, we found that, while developing normally in winged-destined pea aphids, the wing disc in wingless-destined aphids degenerated 30-hr postbirth and that this degeneration was due to autophagy rather than apoptosis. Activation of autophagy in first instar nymphs reduced the proportion of winged aphids, and suppression of autophagy increased the proportion. REPTOR2, associated with TOR signaling pathway, was identified by RNA-seq as a differentially expressed gene between the two morphs with higher expression in the thorax of wingless-destined aphids. Further genetic analysis indicated that REPTOR2 could be a novel gene derived from a gene duplication event that occurred exclusively in pea aphids on autosome A1 but translocated to the sex chromosome. Knockdown of REPTOR2 reduced autophagy in the wing disc and increased the proportion of winged aphids. In agreement with REPTOR's canonical negative regulatory role of TOR on autophagy, winged-destined aphids had higher TOR expression in the wing disc. Suppression of TOR activated autophagy of the wing disc and decreased the proportion of winged aphids, and vice versa. Co-suppression of TOR and REPTOR2 showed that dsREPTOR2 could mask the positive effect of dsTOR on autophagy, suggesting that REPTOR2 acted as a key regulator downstream of TOR in the signaling pathway. These results revealed that the TOR signaling pathway suppressed autophagic degradation of the wing disc in pea aphids by negatively regulating the expression of REPTOR2.

SARS-CoV-2 RNAs are processed into 22-nt vsRNAs in Vero cells

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused the global pandemic, resulting in great fatalities around the world. Although the antiviral roles of RNA interference (RNAi) have been well studied in plants, nematodes and insects, the antiviral roles of RNAi in mammalians are still debating as RNAi effect is suspected to be suppressed by interferon (IFN) signaling pathways in most cell types. To determine the role of RNAi in mammalian resistance to SARS-CoV-2, we studied the profiling of host small RNAs and SARS-CoV-2 virus-derived small RNAs (vsRNAs) in the early infection stages of Vero cells, an IFN-deficient cell line. We found that host microRNAs (miRNAs) were dysregulated upon SARS-CoV-2 infection, resulting in downregulation of microRNAs playing antiviral functions and upregulation of microRNAs facilitating viral proliferations. Moreover, vsRNA peaked at 22 nt at negative strand but not the positive strand of SARS-CoV-2 and formed successive Dicer-spliced pattern at both strands. Similar characteristics of vsRNAs were observed in IFN-deficient cell lines infected with Sindbis and Zika viruses. Together, these findings indicate that host cell may deploy RNAi pathway to combat SARS-CoV-2 infection in IFN-deficient cells, informing the alternative antiviral strategies to be developed for patients or tissues with IFN deficiency.

[Inflammatory factors in periodontitis patients and their effects toward the occurrence of gestational diabetes mellitus: a case-control study]

Objective: To explore the effects of periodontitis and inflammatory factors toward the occurrence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Methods: Pregnant women who came to the Department of Obstetrics, Northwest Women's and Children's Hospital for prenatal examinations during March to November of 2021 were invited to participate in this study. Participants with GDM who met the inclusion criteria (n=100) were assigned into the case group; while healthy participants (n=100) were assigned into the control group. Information of participants from the two groups were collected by questionnaires and periodontal statuses were clinically recorded in the meantime. Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and venous blood were also collected from participants of two groups to analyze the expression levels of inflammatory factors like C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and IL-33. Factors different between the two groups were included in the multivariate regression analysis model to determine the risk factors of GDM. Results: The age of participants was (33.4±5.1) years in case group and (30.5±4.5) years in control group respectively, which had statistical differences (t=4.33,P<0.001). Besides, the body mass index of participants from case group was also significantly higher than control group [(28.11±3.85) kg/m² vs. (23.31±3.15) kg/m², t=9.65, P<0.001]. Participants with GDM had more adverse periodontal clinical parameters. Prevalence of periodontitis in GDM group was 47.0% (47/100) compared with 29.0% (29/100) in control group (χ²=6.88, P=0.009). Multivariate regression analysis results indicated that periodontitis was a critical risk factor for the occurrence of GDM (OR=1.882, P<0.001). Besides, GCF IL-8, serum TNF-α, IL-8 and IL-10 were also risk factors of GDM due to their higher expressions. Among them, TNF-α in serum (OR=2.077) and IL-8 in serum (OR=2.060) had more significant impacts (P<0.001). Conclusions: This study demonstrated that periodontitis was associated with the occurrence of GDM. Up-regulation of serum pro-inflammatory mediators leaded by local periodontal inflammatory microenvironment might play a critical role in this pathological process.

COPB2: a transport protein with multifaceted roles in cancer development and progression

The Coatomer protein complex subunit beta 2 (COPB2) is involved in the formation of the COPI coatomer protein complex and is responsible for the transport of vesicles between the Golgi apparatus and the endoplasmic reticulum. It plays an important role in maintaining the integrity of these cellular organelles, as well as in maintaining cell homeostasis. More importantly, COPB2 plays key roles in embryonic development and tumor progression. COPB2 is regarded as a vital oncogene in several cancer types and has been implicated in tumor cell proliferation, survival, invasion, and metastasis. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on the roles of COPB2 in cancer development and progression in the context of the hallmarks of cancer.

DEAD-box helicases modulate dicing body formation in Arabidopsis

Eukaryotic cells contain numerous membraneless organelles that are made from liquid droplets of proteins and nucleic acids and that provide spatiotemporal control of various cellular processes. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the formation and rapid stress-induced alterations of these organelles are relatively uncharacterized. Here, we investigated the roles of DEAD-box helicases in the formation and alteration of membraneless nuclear dicing bodies (D-bodies) in Arabidopsis thaliana We uncovered that RNA helicase 6 (RH6), RH8, and RH12 are previously unidentified D-body components. These helicases interact with and promote the phase separation of SERRATE, a key component of D-bodies, and drive the formation of D-bodies through liquid-liquid phase separations (LLPSs). The accumulation of these helicases in the nuclei decreases upon Turnip mosaic virus infections, which couples with the decrease of D-bodies. Our results thus reveal the key roles of RH6, RH8, and RH12 in modulating D-body formation via LLPSs.

[Survey of related factors of maternal venous thromboembolism in nine hospitals of China]

Objective: To investigate and analyze disease status and risk factors of venous thromboembolism (VTE) during pregnancy and puerperium in our country. Methods: Clinical datas were collected from 575 patients diagnosed with VTE during pregnancy and puerperium and hospitalized in nine medical institutions in our country from January 1, 2015 to November 30, 2019, and retrospectively analyzed it's disease status and risk factors. Results: (1) The proportion of VTE in pregnancy and puerperium was 50.6% (291/575) and 49.4% (284/575), respectively. Four patients died, the mortality rate was 0.7% (4/575). The cause of death was pulmonary embolism. (2) The location of VTE during pregnancy and puerperium was mainly in the lower limb vascular (76.2%, 438/575), followed by pulmonary vessels (7.1%, 41/575). (3) In the risk factors of VTE, cesarean section accounted for 32.3% (186/575), maternal advance age accounted for 27.7% (159/575), braking or hospitalization during pregnancy accounted for 13.6% (78/575), other risk factors accounted for more than 5% were previous VTE, obesity, preterm birth, assistant reproductive technology conception and so on, pre-eclampsia and multiple pregnancy accounted for 4.9% (28/575) respectively. In addition, some patients with VTE did not have any of the above risk factors, and the incidence rate was as high as 23.1% (133/575). Conclusions: The occurrence of VTE during pregnancy and puerperium is related to multiple risk factors, and could lead to matemal death, It is very necessary to screen VTE risk factors for all pregnant women, to make corresponding prevention and control measures.

Analysis of the prognostic factors of triple-negative breast cancer and the clinical efficacy of postoperative radiotherapy in early cases

e12502

Background: To explore the prognostic value of pretherapeutic peripheral blood parameters and breast imaging-reporting and data system (BI-RADS) classification of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and the effect of postoperative radiotherapy in early cases. Methods: A total of 278 TNBC patients’ medical records between January 2013 and December 2018 were retrospectively collected, including white blood cells, neutrophils, lymphocytes, platelets, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), serum tumor markers, BI-RADS classification, TNM staging and therapeutic methods. We used the log-rank test and Kaplan-Meier curves to assess the progression-free survival (PFS) of enrolled patients. Multivariate prognostic analysis was performed by the Cox regression model. Results: The median PFS of all 278 patients was 20 months (4-72 months) at the end of follow-up. Operable patients who obtained adjuvant chemotherapy had a better median PFS (20 vs 18.5 months, P= 0.018, HR = 5.943, 95% CI: 1.36-25.92) than those without. Lymph node metastasis (52%) and chest well relapse (28%) were the critical failure forms followed by other metastases (12% lungs, 9.3% bones, 4% liver and 2.7% brain) with p value less than 0.001. Multivariate analysis indicated that platelet counts > 113.5×109/L (p = 0.024), PLR ≤ 111.7 (p = 0.036) and CA15-3 ≤ 8.4 U/mL (p = 0.003) were significantly associated with the favourable prognosis of PFS in TNBC patients. Furthermore, BI-RADS of grade 2-4 had a better median PFS compared with grade of 5-6(20 vs 17.5 months, p = 0.008, HR = 2.154, 95% CI: 1.219-3.805). In subgroup analysis, forty-three early cases with pN1 stage earned additional benefits from postoperative radiotherapy in terms of low risk of distant metastasis and recurrence (p = 0.014). Residual tumor after surgery was another important factor of poor prognosis (p = 0.029). Conclusions: Adjuvant chemotherapy improved median PFS for operable TNBC patients and pretherapeutic platelets, PLR, CA15-3 and BI-RADS were the independent prognostic factors of survival. Lymph node metastasis and chest well relapse were the main patterns of treatment failure. Radiotherapy could reduce the risk of disease progression for postoperative patients with N1 stage.

[Evaluating inferior vena cava wall invasion in renal cell carcinoma tumor thrombus with MRI]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of MRI for the assessment of inferior vena cava (IVC) wall invasion by IVC thrombus in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

METHODS

We retrospectively collected patients who underwent radical nephrectomy and thrombectomy for RCC between 2010 and 2018 at Peking University First Hospital. All the patients underwent imaging on a 1.5 Tesla or 3.0 Tesla MRI scanner. Fifty-six patients met the inclusion criteria. Preoperative imaging was reviewed by two radiologists blinded to details of the patient's surgical procedure and histopathology. Two radiologists measured the maximum anterior-posterior diameter and coronal diameters of the IVC and renal vein, and the craniocaudal extent of tumor thrombus, and evaluated the MRI features of IVC thrombus, including occlusion of the IVC lumen, the margin of the tumor thrombus (smooth vs. irregular), contact of the IVC thrombus and IVC wall, and altered signal of the IVC wall. Univariable and multivariable associations of clinical and radiographic features with IVC wall invasion were evaluated by Logistic regression.

RESULTS

Of the 56 patients [male: 43, female: 13, mean age: (55.64±0.43) years], 17 (30.36%) were detected with IVC wall invasion, and most were clear cell carcinoma. Tumor thrombus with IVC wall invasion showed an increase in length of IVC thrombus [(7.91±3.59) cm vs. (5.94±3.57) cm, P=0.049], and more features of complete occlusion of the IVC lumen (P=0.002), irregular margin of the IVC thrombs (P=0.005), contact of the IVC thrombus and IVC wall (P=0.001), and altered signal of the low-intensity vessel wall (P<0.001), with a sensitivity of 94.12% and a specificity of 79.49%.

CONCLUSION

The present study indicates that MRI could be a means of evaluating RCC with IVC wall invasion, and the combination of tumor thrombus length and subjective impression of IVC wall invasion achieved a high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosis.

[Influencing factors and antenatal assessment of the vaginal birth after cesarean section]

Objective: To explore the influencing factors of the vaginal birth after cesarean section (VBAC), and establish a model for predicting the risk of trial of the trial of labor after cesarean section (TOLAC). Methods: From January 2016 to December 2018, total 694 pregnant women who underwent TOLAC in Northwest Women's and Children's Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Those cases were divided into two groups according to the mode of delivery: the VBAC group and the failed TOLAC group. At the same time, 700 cases in the elective repeat cesarean section (ERCS) group were randomly selected as control group. The influencing factors of VBAC were analyzed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression, and the pregnancy outcomes between the three groups were compared. Results: (1) The VBAC rate was 76.1% (528/694) and 166 women underwent the failed TOLAC (23.9%, 166/694). (2) Univariate analysis found that, the pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) [(22.0±3.0), (23.3±2.7) kg/m(2)], the previous vaginal delivery history [10.4%(55/528), 3.6%(6/166)], the cervical score (5.2±1.9,4.3±1.6) and the neonatal birth weight [(3 315±468), (3 484±274) g] of the VBAC group were significantly different from the failed TOLAC group (P<0.05). (3) The comparison of pregnancy outcomes: the neonatal birth weight was (3 315±468) g, and the intrapartum hemorrhage volume was (255±121) ml in the VBAC group, which were significantly lower than those in the failed TOLAC group [intrapartum hemorrhage (325±173) ml] and the ERCS group [(3 572±344) g, (281±125) ml], there were statistically significant differences in the comparison among the three groups (all P<0.05). Two cases of bladder injury occurred during cesarean section in the TOLAC failure group (1.2%,2/166). The rates of the blood transfusion, puerperal infection, 5-minute Apgar score and neonatal ICU admission among the three groups were no statistically significantly different (all P>0.05). There was no maternal or perinatal death. (4) Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the delivery age of pregnant women (OR=0.92, 95%CI: 0.87-0.98), pre-pregnancy BMI (OR=0.92, 95%CI:0.86-0.98), vaginal delivery history (OR=3.31, 95%CI: 1.35-8.01), cervical score (OR=1.29, 95%CI: 1.13-1.42) and the birth weight of the neonates <3 300 g (OR=3.15, 95%CI: 2.02-4.90) were independent influencing factors for VBAC. The area under curve of the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.74. Conclusions: The influencing factors of VBAC are delivery age, pre-pregnancy BMI, vaginal delivery history, cervical score and neonatal birth weight <3 300 g. The adequate individualized management and assessment of the TOLAC may be helpful to improve the VBAC rate.

[Sublingual immunotherapy of Dermatophagoides farinae drops in nasal cavity local allergy]

Objective:To investigate treatment effect of Sublingual immunotherapy of Dermatophagoides farinae drops in nasal cavity local allergy.MethodSelecting 60 patients as observation group,who had only nasal local allergy symptoms,allergen skin prick test and serum allergen specific IgE test were negative, but nasal secretions allergen specific IgE test and nasal mucous membrane excitation test were positive.Sublingual immunotherapy of Dermatophagoides farinae drops for three years were given to them.To detect symptom scores and VAS scores,eosinophilia counts in nasal secretion,nasal secretions allergen specific IgE test,nasal mucous membrane excitation test before treatment,after two years treatment,and three years treatment,the data of pre-therapy and post-therapy was taken for statistical analysis.ResultThere was difference(P<0.05) in the symptom scores and VAS scores of patients in observation group before treatment and after two years treatment.There was difference(P<0.05) in the eosinophilia counts in nasal secretion of patients before treatment and after two years treatment. There was difference(P<0.05) in the nasal secretions allergen specific IgE test of patients before treatment and after two years treatment. There was difference(P<0.05) in the nasal mucous membrane excitation test of patients before treatment and after two years treatment.There was no difference(P>0.05) Symptom scores and VAS scores in the patients after two years treatment and after three years treatment.Conclusion：For patients with the typical medical history and symptoms of AR,but with allergen SPT and serum allergen SIgE test negative,there was local specific hypersensitivity in nasal mucosa,but there was not accompanied by systemic sensitization.Combined with nasal secretions allergen SIgE test or allergen nasal mucosa proocation tests positive,local allergic rhinitis can be diagnosed.Sublingual immunotherapy of Dermatophagoides farinae drops in nasal cavity local allergy was effective.

[The clinical significance of PRL-3,VEGF expression in sinonasalsquamous cell carcinoma]

Objective:To analyze the clinical significance of phosphatase of regenerating liver-3(PRL-3) and vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)expression in sinonasal squamous cell carcinomas.Method:We use immunohistochemical analysis and RT-PCR to detecte the expression of PRL-3 and VEGF protein in 62 cases of sinonasal squamous carcinoma tissues(SNSCC),30 cases of nasal polyps(NP),and 25 cases of normal nasal mucosa(NM).Result:①The expression of PRL-3 and VEGF in sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma tissues were statistically higher than in nasal polyps and normal nasal mucosa tissues (P<0.05).②The expression of PRL-3 and VEGF were not correlated with patient's age or gender(P>0.05).But the High expression of PRL-3 and VEGF in SNSCC was significantly related with advanced,lower tumor differentiation and lymph node metastasis(P<0.05).③The expression of PRL-3 and VEGF was positively correlated in sinonasal squamous cell carcinomas.Conclusion:The expression of PRL-3 and VEGF in SNSCC may involve in the regulation of tumor growth and differentiation.The expressing intensity may reflect the proliferation activity of sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma cell.PRL-3 and VEGF may promote the tumor metastasis in a synergistic manner.

Tumor suppressor let-7a inhibits breast cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion by targeting MAGE-A1

Let-7 was one of the earliest discovered miRNAs and while it reportedly acts as a tumor suppressor in various solid tumors, its function in breast cancer has not been fully studied. Therefore, we examined let-7a and MAGE-A1 expression in breast tissues by qRT-PCR and found that let-7a expression significantly correlates with larger tumor size, higher histological grade (p<0.05) and is significantly lower in patients with Her-2-positive cancers and Ki-67 >14% (p=0.028 and p=0.023). MAGE-A1 expression incidence is 50.8% (33/65) and it inversely correlates with let-7a expression (p=0.008). let-7a inhibition of breast cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion was also observed in in vitro cell culture experiments, and dual-luciferase reporter assays showed that melanoma-associated antigen A1 (MAGE-A1) was its target gene; the target comprised bases 451-457 of the 3'UTR region of the MAGE-A1 mRNA. RT-qPCR and Western blot analyses showed that let-7a inhibited MAGE-A1 expression at both the nucleic acid and protein levels. In our final co-transfection experiment, we targeted MAGE-A1 in a breast cancer cell line and observed that let-7a inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion. These combined results confirm that let-7a functions as a tumor suppressor by targeting MAGE-A1 in breast cancer and it therefore provides a novel target in breast cancer clinical treatment.

Dosimetry study of 18F-FMISO + PET/CT hypoxia imaging guidance on intensity-modulated radiation therapy for non-small cell lung cancer

OBJECTIVES

This study was to evaluate the feasibility of simultaneous integrated boost on tumor hypoxia area by studying the dosimetric change of hypoxia imaging guidance on intensity-modulated radiation therapy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODS

Five NSCLC patients with large hypoxic volume participated in this study. FDG PET/CT images were fused with CT localization images to delineate gross tumor volume. FMISO PET/CT images were fused with CT localization images to delineate hypoxic biological target volume (BTV) (tissue maximum ratio ≥ 1.3) by threshold. BTV was irradiated with 72, 78 and 84 Gy, respectively, 30 times. The dosimetry differences were compared in target volume and organ at risk between simultaneous integrated boost plans and conventional radiotherapy plans.

RESULTS

Dosages on BTV of NSCLC hypoxic area were increased to 72, 78 and 84 Gy, respectively, by simultaneous integrated boost intensity-modulated radiation therapy. There was no obvious difference in dosage distributions on original target volume compared with those in conventional radiotherapy. Dosages on main organ at risk in chest met the dosimetric constraint, and there was no significant difference compared with those in conventional radiotherapy.

CONCLUSION

It is feasible in dosiology that the dosages in NSCLC hypoxic area were added to 72, 78 and 84 Gy by simultaneous integrated boost with the guidance of ¹⁸F-FMISO PET/CT.

Effect of epigallocatechin-3-gallate on acrylamide-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in PC12 cells

Acrylamide (ACR) is a chemical intermediate utilized in industry. ACR is also formed during heating of foods containing carbohydrates and amino acids. Therefore, humans are widely exposed to ACR, and ACR neurotoxicity in humans is a significant public health issue attracting wide attention. In this study, we investigated the potential neuroprotective effects of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), the most abundant polyphenolic compound in green tea, in PC12 cells treated with ACR. ACR-treated PC12 cells pretreated with various concentrations of EGCG (2.5, 5 and 10 μM) for 24 h had increased viability and acetylcholinesterase activity and reduced apoptosis and necrosis compared to cells exposed to ACR alone. EGCG reduced the expression of bax mRNA, decreased cytochrome c release, reduced intracellular calcium levels, inactivated caspase 3 and increased mitochondrial membrane potential, suggesting that EGCG prevents ACR-induced apoptosis through a mitochondrial-mediated pathway. In addition, EGCG inhibited the formation of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation while enhancing superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione levels, thereby reducing oxidative stress. Our results indicate that pretreatment of PC12 cells with EGCG attenuates ACR-induced apoptosis by reducing oxidative stress. Therefore, drinking green tea may reduce nerve injury induced by ACR.

Co-expression of recombinant human prolyl with human collagen α1 (III) chains in two yeast systems

In this study, we co-expressed the human prolyl 4-hydroxylases (P4H) with human collagen α1 (III) (COL3A1) in an inducible system: Pichia pastoris (pPICZB), and one constitutive system: P. pastoris (pGAPZαB). The P4H catalyses the post-translational hydroxylation of proline residues in collagen strands. Conventional protein expression system such as bacteria and yeasts, which lack endogenous P4H, are not efficient for the production of recombinant collagen. In this study, the P4H gene was constructed in pGAPZαB plasmid and pPICZB plasmid respectively. These two plasmids were transformed in P. pastoris #1 that carrying COL3A1. Colony PCR analysis and sequencing after electroporation P. pastoris GS115 showed that the target gene had inserted successfully. The results of reverse transcript-qPCR, SDS-PAGE, Western blotting and LC-MS/MS analysis of the rhCOL3A1 demonstrated that the P4H was expressed successfully. Besides, it is noted that low copy number, constitutive system was suitable for hydroxylated rhCOL3A1.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Successful co-expression of recombinant human collagen α1 (III) (rhCOL3A1) and human prolyl 4-hydroxylases (P4H) in Picha pastoris GS115, simultaneously results in the acquisition of rhCOL3A1 with hydroxylation of proline (Hyp). Further, this experiment also discusses that the high or low copy numbers and different promoters affect the Hyp degree of rhCOL3A1. Selecting more appropriate strains can express high degree Hyp of rhCOL3A1. This work will be helpful to the collagen structure study.

Effects of energy controllable steep pulses on intracellular calcium concentration and cell membrane potential

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Our previous experiments showed that steep pulses could kill tumor cells, but the mechanism is unclear yet. This study was to probe the effects of different dosages of energy controllable steep pulses on intracellular concentration of dissociative calcium ion ([Ca2+]i) and cell membrane potential.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The mammary carcinoma cells MDA-MB-231 were divided into control group and 5 different dosages of Energy Controllable Steep Pulses (ECSP) treatment groups. The calcium ion in each group was labeled by Fluo-3/AM individually and the cell membrane potential was labeled by DiBAC4 (3). The mean fluorescence intensity of fluorescent probe in mammary carcinoma cells was observed in quiet state by laser confocal microscopy after ECSP treatment The changes of calcium concentration and cell membrane potential in cells after ECSP treatment were analyzed. The changes of intracellular [Ca2+]i after ECSP treatment were also observed with and without calcium ion outside of the cells.

RESULTS

The calcium ion outside of cells influx with lower dosage of pulse in quiet state. With the dosage increase, the intracellular calcium ion outflow. In real time kinetic detection, the mean fluorescence intensity of intracellular calcium ion was increased with the pulse electric field intensity raised in the lower ECSP. When the voltage was 285V, frequency was 100Hz, the [Ca2+]i decreased. The increase of intracellular calcium ion concentration was decreased without calcium ion than with calcium ion outside of cells, but still raised gradually. The lower dosage of ECSP could induce the fluorescence intensity of DiBAC4 (3) in cells increase, which showed that the lower dosage of ECSP could induce the depolarization of cells. With the dosage raised, the fluorescence intensity of DiBAC4 (3) in cells attenuated. This dosage of ECSP could induce the superpolarization of cell membrane.

CONCLUSIONS

The lower dosage of ECSP can induce the depolarization of cell membrane and induce the inter flow of calcium ion outside of cell membrane. The higher dosage of ECSP can directly destroy the cell membrane and induce the superpolarization of cell membrane, then induce the outflow of intracellular calcium ion which causes the necrosis of tumor cells.

Modulation of K(v)7 potassium channels by a novel opener pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-7(4H)-one compound QO-58

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Modulation of K(v)7/M channel function represents a relatively new strategy to treat neuronal excitability disorders such as epilepsy and neuropathic pain. We designed and synthesized a novel series of pyrazolo[1,5-a] pyrimidin-7(4H)-one compounds, which activate K(v)7 channels. Here, we characterized the effects of the lead compound, QO-58, on K(v)7 channels and investigated its mechanism of action.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

A perforated whole-cell patch technique was used to record K(v)7 currents expressed in mammalian cell lines and M-type currents from rat dorsal root ganglion neurons. The effects of QO-58 in a rat model of neuropathic pain, chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve, were also examined.

KEY RESULTS

QO-58 increased the current amplitudes, shifted the voltage-dependent activation curve in a more negative direction and slowed the deactivation of K(v)7.2/K(v)7.3 currents. QO-58 activated K(v)7.1, K(v)7.2, K(v)7.4 and K(v)7.3/K(v)7.5 channels with a more selective effect on K(v)7.2 and K(v)7.4, but little effect on K(v)7.3. The mechanism of QO-58's activation of K(v)7 channels was clearly distinct from that used by retigabine. A chain of amino acids, Val(224)Val(225)Tyr(226), in K(v)7.2 was important for QO-58 activation of this channel. QO-58 enhanced native neuronal M currents, resulting in depression of evoked action potentials. QO-58 also elevated the pain threshold of neuropathic pain in the sciatic nerve CCI model.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The results indicate that QO-58 is a potent modulator of K(v)7 channels with a mechanism of action different from those of known K(v)7 openers. Hence, QO-58 shows potential as a treatment for diseases associated with neuronal hyperexcitability.

FasL-induced apoptosis in bovine oocytes via the Bax signal

The factor associated suicide (Fas) and its ligand (FasL) signaling is an important regulatory pathway of apoptosis in mammalian follicles. However, whether apoptosis in bovine oocytes is regulated by the Fas-FasL signaling pathway remains unknown. In this study, localization of Fas and FasL in immature oocytes and FasL in cumulus cells were examined using immunofluorescence staining. In addition, exogenous FasL was added to an in vitro culture system to investigate apoptotic changes in bovine oocytes, using annexin-V and terminal uridine nick-end labeling staining, and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. In this study, Fas was expressed in immature oocytes, whereas FasL was expressed in cumulus cells, but not in immature oocytes; annexin-V- and terminal uridine nick-end labeling-positive rates of oocytes treated with 2, 10, or 50 ng/mL FasL were higher than those of control oocytes (P < 0.05); and oocytes from the three treatment groups had higher expression levels of Fas and B cell lymphoma/leukemia-2 associated X than those in the control group (P < 0.05). Taken together, we concluded that the Fas-FasL signaling pathway was involved in regulation of bovine oocyte apoptosis, perhaps related to B cell lymphoma/leukemia-2 associated X upregulation.

High-intensity electric pulses induce mitochondria-dependent apoptosis in ovarian cancer xenograft mice

Human ovarian cancer models were established in nude mice by transplanting SKOV(3) cells, and then tumors were exposed to high-intensity electric pulses with a voltage 1000 V, frequency of 1000 Hz, and duration of 250 ns for 1 min. Mitochondria permeability transition pore (PTP) was inspected by cofocal microscope; cytochrome C (Cyt C) and apoptosis-induced factor (AIF) were determined by immunohistochemistry; and voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC) was measured by immunofluorescence. High-intensity electric pulses exposure led to increases of PTP, Cyt C, and AIF and a decrease of VDAC. These findings revealed that high-intensity electric pulses activated mitochondria electroporation, apoptosis was realized via mitochondria pathway.

ZD6474 reverses multidrug resistance by directly inhibiting the function of P-glycoprotein

P-glycoprotein (P-gp) pumps multiple types of drugs out of the cell, using energy generated from ATP, and confers multidrug resistance (MDR) on cancer cells. ZD6474 is an orally active, selective inhibitor of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, epidermal growth factor receptor, and rearranged during transfection tyrosine kinases. This study was designed to examine whether ZD6474 reverses P-gp-mediated MDR in cancer cells. Here, we show that clinically achievable levels of ZD6474 reverse P-gp-mediated MDR of the P-gp-overexpressing cell lines derived from breast cancer, MCF-7/adriamycin (ADR), and human oral epidermoid carcinoma, KBV200 to ADR, docetaxel, and vinorelbine. This ability to reverse the P-gp-mediated resistance is comparable to that of another frequently used reversal agent known as verapamil. ZD6474 itself moderately inhibits the proliferation of both MCF-7 and MCF-7/ADR cells with almost equal activity, but its inhibitory effect is not altered by co-incubation with verapamil, suggesting that ZD6474 may not be a substrate of P-gp. In addition, ZD6474 increases the intracellular accumulation of the P-gp substrate, rhodamine-123, and ADR, by enhancing the uptake and/or decreasing the efflux of these compounds in resistant cells. Further studies show that ZD6474 stimulates ATPase activity in a dose-dependent manner, which is required for the proper function of P-gp. In contrast, ZD6474 does not inhibit the expression level of P-gp. Our results suggest that ZD6474 is capable of reversing MDR in cancer cells by directly inhibiting the function of P-gp, a finding that may have clinical implications for ZD6474.

Effect of pattern topology on the self-cleaning properties of textured surfaces

The water contact angle and self-cleaning property of microfabricated surface textures possessing different topologies are compared. In one kind of surface textures, the protruded regions form a connected square network. In the other kind of surface textures, the protruded regions form a regular array of square posts. We find that the water apparent contact angle of the connected textures agrees with the Cassie equation [Discuss. Faraday Soc. 3, 11 (1948)], but that of the disconnected textures is much larger. Nevertheless, the disconnected textures exhibit inferior self-cleaning property, contrary to conventional conception. We discuss the possible reasons for these observations.

Indoor molds, bacteria, microbial volatile organic compounds and plasticizers in schools--associations with asthma and respiratory symptoms in pupils

We investigated asthma and atopy in relation to microbial and plasticizer exposure. Pupils in eight primary schools in Uppsala (Sweden) answered a questionnaire, 1014 (68%) participated. Totally, 7.7% reported doctor-diagnosed asthma, 5.9% current asthma, and 12.2% allergy to pollen/pets. Wheeze was reported by 7.8%, 4.5% reported daytime breathlessness, and 2.0% nocturnal breathlessness. Measurements were performed in 23 classrooms (May-June), 74% had <1000 ppm CO(2) indoors. None had visible mold growth or dampness. Mean total microbial volatile organic compound (MVOC) concentration was 423 ng/m(3) indoors and 123 ng/m(3) outdoors. Indoor concentration of TMPD-MIB (2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol monoisobutyrate, Texanol) and TMPD-DIB (2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol diisobutyrate, TXIB), two common plasticizers, were 0.89 and 1.64 microg/m(3), respectively. MVOC and plasticizer concentration were correlated (r = 0.5; P < 0.01). Mold concentration was 360 cfu/m(3) indoors and 980 cfu/m(3) outdoors. At higher indoor concentrations of total MVOC, nocturnal breathlessness (P < 0.01) and doctor-diagnosed asthma (P < 0.05) were more common. Moreover, there were positive associations between nocturnal breathlessness and 3-methylfuran (P < 0.01), 3-methyl-1-butanol (P < 0.05), dimethyldisulfide (P < 0.01), 2-heptanone (P < 0.01), 1-octen-3-ol (P < 0.05), 3-octanone (P < 0.05), TMPD-MIB (P < 0.05), and TMPD-DIB (P < 0.01). TMPD-DIB was positively associated with wheeze (P < 0.05), daytime breathlessness (P < 0.05), doctor-diagnosed asthma (P < 0.05), and current asthma (P < 0.05). In conclusion, exposure to MVOC and plasticizers at school may be a risk factor for asthmatic symptoms in children.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

Despite generally good ventilation and lack of visible signs of mold growth, we found an association between respiratory symptoms and indoor MVOC concentration. In addition, we found associations between asthmatic symptoms and two common plasticizers. The highest levels of MVOC, TMPD-MIB, and TMPD-DIB were found in two new buildings, suggesting that material emissions should be better controlled. As MVOC and plasticizers concentrations were positively correlated, while indoor viable molds and bacteria were negatively correlated, it is unclear if indoor MVOC is an indicator of microbial exposure. Further studies focusing on health effects of chemical emissions from indoor plastic materials, including PVC-floor coatings, are needed.

Current asthma and respiratory symptoms among pupils in relation to dietary factors and allergens in the school environment

The aim was to study asthma and allergy in relation to diet and the school environment. Pupils (5-14 years) in eight schools received a questionnaire, 1014 participated (68%). Settled dust was collected on ALK-filters and analyzed for allergens from cat (Fel d 1), dog (Can f 1), horse (Equ cx), house dust mites (Der p 1, Der f 1), and cockroach (Bla g 1) by ELISA. In total, 6.8% reported cat allergy, 4.8% dog allergy, 7.7% doctor's diagnosed asthma and 5.9% current asthma, and 7.8% reported wheeze. Current asthma was less common among those consuming more fresh milk (P < 0.05) and fish (P < 0.01). Poly-unsaturated fatty acids was associated with more wheeze (P < 0.05), olive oil was associated with less doctors' diagnosed asthma (P < 0.05). Totally, 74% of the classrooms had mean CO(2) <1000 ppm. The median concentration per gram dust was 860 ng/g Fel d 1, 750 ng/g Can f 1 and 954 U/g Equ cx. Horse allergen was associated with more wheeze (P < 0.05), daytime breathlessness (P < 0.05), current asthma (P < 0.05) and atopic sensitization (P < 0.05). Dog allergen was associated with wheeze (P < 0.05) and daytime breathlessness (P < 0.05). The associations between allergens and respiratory symptoms were more pronounced among those consuming margarine, not consuming butter, and with a low intake of milk. In conclusion, cat, dog and horse allergens in schools could be a risk factor for asthma and atopic sensitization, and dietary factors may interact with the allergen exposure.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

Previous school studies performed by us in mid-Sweden, showed that most classrooms did not fulfill the ventilation standards. In this study, most of the classrooms fulfilled the ventilation standard, but despite that had widespread allergen contamination. Most previous studies have focused on cat allergen, but our study has shown that also dog and horse allergens can be risk factors for asthma and allergy in schools. As allergens are transported from other environments, mainly the home environment, the main prevention should be to minimize transfer of allergens. This could be achieved by reducing contacts with furry pets and horses, or using different clothes at home and at school (e.g. school uniforms). Increased cleaning in the schools may reduce allergen levels, but the efficiency of this measure must be evaluated in further intervention studies. Finally, our study supports the view that dietary habits among pupils should not be neglected and interaction between dietary factors and indoor allergen exposure needs to be further investigated.

[A study of the relationship among interleukin-8, cortisol and idiopathic preterm labor]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of interleukin-8 and cortisol on the onset of idiopathic preterm labor (PL).

METHODS

In 35 women with preterm labor and 17 controls, maternal serum and urine samples were collected. Interleukin-8 concentration was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay, serum cortisol level was measured by radioimmunoassay.

RESULTS

The concentration of interleukin-8 in maternal serum and urine and cortisol in serum were significantly higher in PL group than those in the control [(0.26 +/- 0.13) microg/L vs (0.16 +/- 0.08) microg/L, (0.16 +/- 0.15) x 10(-2) g/mol Cr vs (0.04 +/- 0.02) x 10(-2) g/mol Cr, (765.83 +/- 408.55) microg/L vs (512.41 +/- 142.65) microg/L; P < 0.05, P < 0.01, P < 0.01, respectively]. A strong correlation was found ammong interleukin-8 and cortisol concentration in maternal serum in PL (r = 0.448; P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a strong relationship between interleukin-8 and cortisol in the onset of preterm labor. Immune system and endocrine system might be involved in the mechanisms of idiopathic preterm labor.

[Preliminary study on postremission therapy courses in acute myeloid leukemia]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the optimum postremission therapy courses in acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

METHODS

Data from medical records of AML patients in our hospital in 7 year were analyzed with SPSS 8.0 system software.

RESULTS

One hundred and ninety one untreated de novo AML patients received different induction chemotherapy regimens: HA, DA, AA and HAD. The complete remission (CR) rate was 81.4%, 89.9% for one to two courses. The median disease free survival (DFS) in 144 CR patients whose survival time could be analyzed was 9.6 months. The probability of survival was 21.6% at 3 year and 12.9% at 5 year. For the patients received less than 6 courses of post-remission therapy, the median DFS was 7.1 months and the probability of survival was 11.4% at 3 year and 6.3% at 5 years, Whereas for patients received 6 or more courses of post-remission therapy, they were 35.3 months, 43.2% and 27.0%, respectively. The differences between the two groups were statistically significant. For patients received 8 or more courses of post-remission therapy, the median DFS was 48.8 months and the probability of survival was 57.9% at 3 year and 31.6% at 5 year.

CONCLUSION

AML patients should at least receive 6 courses of post-remission therapy, and 8 courses therapy seems better.

Edg-1, the G protein-coupled receptor for sphingosine-1-phosphate, is essential for vascular maturation

Sphingolipid signaling pathways have been implicated in many critical cellular events. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (SPP), a sphingolipid metabolite found in high concentrations in platelets and blood, stimulates members of the endothelial differentiation gene (Edg) family of G protein-coupled receptors and triggers diverse effects, including cell growth, survival, migration, and morphogenesis. To determine the in vivo functions of the SPP/Edg signaling pathway, we disrupted the Edg1 gene in mice. Edg1(-/-) mice exhibited embryonic hemorrhage leading to intrauterine death between E12.5 and E14.5. Vasculogenesis and angiogenesis appeared normal in the mutant embryos. However, vascular maturation was incomplete due to a deficiency of vascular smooth muscle cells/pericytes. We also show that Edg-1 mediates an SPP-induced migration response that is defective in mutant cells due to an inability to activate the small GTPase, Rac. Our data reveal Edg-1 to be the first G protein-coupled receptor required for blood vessel formation and show that sphingolipid signaling is essential during mammalian development.

Buckwheat allergy and reports on asthma and atopic disorders in Taiyuan City, Northern China

Allergy to common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) has been reported from Europe and Japan, and a 24 kDa globulin protein has been identified as one of the major allergens. In China also another type, tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tartaricum) is grown and consumed. Three groups of individuals in Shanxi province, China, were investigated for buckwheat allergy using skin prick test. The groups were: agricultural researchers with occupational exposure to buckwheat (N = 16); workers in a food industry producing buckwheat noodles (N = 25), and patients with diabetes or cardiovascular disease consuming buckwheat as functional food (N = 20). Information on atopic disorders and adverse food reactions were collected by a doctors-administered questionnaire. One male industrial worker had a positive skin prick test to buckwheat, but no symptoms while eating or handling buckwheat products. In total, 34% consumed buckwheat food at least every week, and 23% had a weekly consumption of tartary buckwheat. The prevalence of doctor's diagnosed asthma was low (1.6%). Four subjects (6.6%) reported a history of allergic rhinitis, with allergy to cedar pollen, carnation and peach.

[Study on the clinical characteristics of biphenotypic acute leukemia]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the biological characteristics and the treatment outcome of adult biphenotypic acute leukemia.

METHODS

Immunophenotypes were examined using indirect immunofluorescence method. Biphenotypic acute leukemia (BAL) was diagnosed according to EGIL scoring system.

RESULTS

(1) The incidence of BAL in acute leukemia was 3.4%. Percentage for coexpression of B lymphoid and myeloid antigens was 68.4%, for T lymphoid and myeloid antigens 21.1%, for B, T lymphoid and myeloid antigens 10.5%. (2) CD(34) was expressed in 43.75% of the BAL cases. (3) Cytogenetic analysis revealed normal and abnormal karyotypes in 41.7% and 58.3% of the BAL cases, respectively. (4) Six of 19 patients achieved completed remission (CR), but the disease free survivals were all less than 6 months. Treatment outcomes were negatively related to the expression of CD(34) antigen and cytogenetic findings. The BAL patients were poorly responded to therapeutic regimens directed to AML.

CONCLUSION

Coexpression of B/M antigens is the commonest subtype in BAL. BAL had a poor prognosis, especially treated with induction regimen directed to AML.

Retinoic acid resistance at late stages of human papillomavirus type 16-mediated transformation of human keratinocytes arises despite intact retinoid signaling and is due to a loss of sensitivity to transforming growth factor-beta

In our in vitro model of human cell carcinogenesis, normal human foreskin keratinocytes (HKc) transfected with human papillomavirus type 16 DNA (HKc/HPV16) progress toward malignancy through several phenotypically defined and reproducible "steps" that include immortalization, growth factor independence (HKc/GFI), differentiation resistance (HKc/DR), and ultimately malignant conversion. While HKc/HPV16 are very sensitive to growth inhibition by all-trans-retinoic acid (RA) at early passages, they lose their sensitivity to RA during progression in culture. However, gel mobility shift assays using the retinoid response elements DR1 and DR5 showed no changes in binding activity of nuclear extracts obtained from HKc/HPV16 at different stages of in vitro progression. Similarly, Western blot analyses for retinoic acid receptor gamma-1 and the retinoid X receptors failed to reveal any decreases in the levels of these retinoid receptors throughout progression. In addition, luciferase activity driven by the SV40 promoter with a DR5 enhancer element was activated following RA treatment of HKc/DR that were resistant to growth inhibition by RA. Since RA induces transforming growth factor-beta2 (TGF-beta2) in normal HKc and HKc/HPV16, we investigated whether this response changed during progression. Again, RA induced TGF-beta2 mRNA in early and late passage HKc/HPV16, HKc/GFI, and HKc/DR approximately to the same extent, confirming that the RA signaling pathways remained intact during in vitro progression despite the fact that the cells become resistant to growth inhibition by RA. We then investigated the sensitivity of HKc/HPV16 to growth inhibition by TGF-beta. While early passage HKc/HPV16 were as sensitive as normal HKc to growth inhibition by TGF-beta1 and TGF-beta2, the cells became increasingly resistant to both TGF-beta isotypes during in vitro progression. In addition, while both RA and TGF-beta produced a decrease in the levels of mRNA for the HPV16 oncogenes E6 and E7 in early passage HKc/HPV16, this effect was also lost at later stages of progression. Finally, blocking anti-TGF-beta antibodies partially prevented RA inhibition of growth and E6/E7 expression in early passage HKc/HPV16. Taken together, these data strongly suggest that inhibition of growth and HPV16 early gene expression in HKc/HPV16 by RA is mediated by TGF-beta and that a loss of RA sensitivity is linked to TGF-beta resistance rather than alterations in RA signaling.

Loss of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) receptor type I mediates TGF-beta resistance in human papillomavirus type 16-transformed human keratinocytes at late stages of in vitro progression

Human keratinocytes (HKc) immortalized by human papillomavirus type 16 DNA (HKc/HPV16) progress toward malignancy through growth factor-independent (HKc/GFI) and differentiation-resistant stages (HKc/DR). This progression is associated with a loss of sensitivity to growth inhibition by both all-trans-retinoic acid (RA) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta). In the accompanying article (Borger et al., 2000, Virology 270, 397-407), we demonstrate that RA resistance in HKc/HPV16 arises despite functional nuclear retinoid receptors and that TGF-beta mediates growth inhibition by RA. To investigate the basis for the loss of TGF-beta sensitivity during in vitro progression of HKc/HPV16, we explored the expression of TGF-beta receptors type I and type II in independently derived HKc/HPV16 lines and their corresponding HKc/GFI and HKc/DR derivatives. While TGF-beta receptor type II mRNA levels were unchanged during progression, mRNA levels for TGF-beta receptor type I decreased dramatically as the cells became TGF-beta resistant. At the HKc/DR stage, loss of TGF-beta receptor type I mRNA, compared to low-passage cells, ranged from 55 to 87% in four HKc/HPV16 lines examined. Immunohistochemistry, using anti-TGF-beta receptor type I antibodies, confirmed a loss of TGF-beta receptor type I expression in HKc/DR. Reintroduction of the TGF-beta-receptor type I into TGF-beta-resistant HKc/DR completely restored growth inhibition by TGF-beta. Southern blot analysis of DNA extracted from normal HKc, HKc/HPV16, and HKc/DR ruled out any gross changes in the TGF-beta receptor type I gene. The activity of the TGF-beta receptor type I promoter, cloned upstream of a luciferase reporter gene, was decreased in HKc/DR, to an extent comparable to the decrease in mRNA levels for the TGF-beta receptor type I. Thus, TGF-beta resistance at late stages of HPV16-mediated transformation of HKc is the result of a loss of expression of TGF-beta receptor type I.

[Establishment and biological characteristics of a novel erythroleukemia cell line (HIE1)]

OBJECTIVE

To establish a novel leukemia cell line and characterize its biological characteristics.

METHOD

The cell line was established by liquid cell culture. The genetic marker was analyzed by R-banding and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), cell morphology by microscopy, electron microscopy and histochemical staining, cell surface antigen by monoclonal antibody, hemoglobin by hyperomethemoglobin measurement and electrophoresis, erythroid differentiation by benzidine-staining, and monocyte-macrophage differentiation by cell morphology and phagocytosis.

RESULTS

A novel erythroleukemia cell line (HIE1), with original cell genetic marker (Ph chromosome, bcr/abl fusion gene rearrangement), was established from a CML patient in blast crisis, and has been passaged for over 60 generations. Myelomonocyte marker and hemoglycoprotein A were found on the cell surface. HIE1 cells contained hemoglobin, the same HbA and HbA(2) bands as in normal individuals were displayed by Hb electrophoresis. The benzidine positive HIE1 cells were induced after exposure to 3.6 x 10(-4) mmol/L Ara-C. When HIE1 cells were treated with 100 ng/ml PMA for 3 days, one third of the cells became spindle in shape, and 6.5% of the cells exert phagocytosis. The cells were classified into two types with Wright-staining: one showing light blue cytoplasm and a few of cells with basophilic granules, the other showing dark blue cytoplasm with vacuoles and pseudopods without granules. In addition, POX, SB, CE stains were negative, and AE, PAS, ACP stains positive. Colony formation of the cells was 37%, the cell doubling time was 22 - 24 hrs, and EB virus detection was positive.

CONCLUSION

A novel erythroleukemia cell line with bcr/abl fusion gene and characteristics of myelomonocytic and erythroid cells was established.

Determination of complex formation constants of lipophilic neutral ionophores in solvent polymeric membranes with segmented sandwich membranes

A potentiometric method to determine ionophore complex formation constants in solvent polymeric membrane phases, proposed originally by Russian researchers, is critically evaluated and compared to other established methods. It requires membrane potential measurements on two-layer sandwich membranes, where only one side contains the ionophore. The resulting initial membrane potential reflects the ion activity ratio at both aqueous phase--membrane interfaces and can be conveniently used to calculate complex formation constants in situ. This method is potentially useful, since it does not require the use of a reference ion or second ionophore in the measurement. In this paper, the five ionophores valinomycin, BME-44, ETH 2120, tert-butylcalix[4]arene tetraethyl ester, and S,S'-methylenebis(diisobutyldithiocarbamate) are characterized in poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) plasticized with dioctyl sebacate (DOS) and compared with other established methods. The resulting formation constants correspond well to literature values. The influence of varying membrane concentrations and different anionic site additives is studied and found to be relatively small. Experiments are also performed with and without lipophilic inert electrolytes and with ionophore-free sandwich membranes to illustrate the effect of ion pairing and the membrane internal diffusion potential on the response of such sandwich membranes. These experiments suggest that ions are completely associated in PVC-DOS membranes, but that such ion pairs are rather nonspecific. Diffusion potentials seem to play a minor role with these systems. The results are explained with theory. This work indicates that the characterization of electrically charged ionophores, anion-selective ionophores, and ionophores in membrane matrixes other than PVC plasticized with DOS may now be experimentally accessible.