[Cardio-metabolic risk and adverse pregnancy outcomes in the first trimester: findings from the Shenzhen birth cohort study]

Objective: To investigate the relationship between cardio-metabolic abnormalities in the first trimester and adverse pregnancy outcomes (APO). Methods: This cohort study recruited singleton pregnancies in the first trimester (6-13+6 weeks of gestation) from Shenzhen Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital between January 1, 2021, and October 31, 2022. Cardiometabolic markers, including body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides (TG), were recorded during the first trimester. Incidence of APO, including gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, preterm birth, fetal growth restriction, small for gestational age infant, and placental abruption, was documented. Cardiovascular metabolic abnormalities in the first trimester were defined as meeting one or more of the following criteria: elevated BMI (BMI≥24 kg/m²), elevated TG (TG≥1.7 mmol/L), decreased HDL-C (HDL-C<1.0 mmol/L), elevated blood pressure (systolic pressure≥130 mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa) and/or diastolic pressure≥85 mmHg), elevated FPG (FPG≥5.6 mmol/L). Enrolled women were categorized into abnormal cardio-metabolic and normal cardio-metabolic groups. Poisson regression was employed to analyze the association between cardio-metabolic abnormalities in the first trimester and APO. Results: The study included 14 197 pregnant women with an age of (32.0±4.1) years. There were 8 139 women in the normal cardio-metabolic group and 6 058 women in the abnormal cardio-metabolic group. Women with cardio-metabolic disorders in the first trimester had a younger gestational age and higher incidence rates of preterm birth, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes mellitus (all P<0.05). In multivariable Poisson regression, elevated BMI (RR=1.22, 95%CI 1.15-1.29), elevated FPG (RR=1.59, 95%CI 1.38-1.82), elevated TG (RR=1.22, 95%CI 1.13-1.31), and elevated blood pressure (RR=1.50, 95%CI 1.39-1.63) were independent risk factors for APO, while decreased HDL-C (RR=0.93, 95%CI 0.70-1.23) was not. Elevated blood pressure (RR=5.57, 95%CI 4.58-6.78), elevated BMI (RR=1.71, 95%CI 1.40-2.09), and elevated TG (RR=1.38, 95%CI 1.10-1.74) had the greatest impact on the risk of developing preeclampsia. Elevated FPG (RR=1.70, 95%CI 1.45-1.99) had the greatest impact on the risk of gestational diabetes. Conclusions: Elevated blood pressure, BMI, TG and FPG in the first trimester are closely related to APO.

[Overview of design and construction of hypertensive disorders of a pregnancy-cohort in Shenzhen]

Hypertensive disorder of pregnancy (HDP) involves two major public health issues: mother-infant safety and prevention and controlling major chronic disease. HDP poses a serious threat to maternal and neonatal safety, and it is one of the leading causes of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide, as well as an important risk factor for long-term cardiovascular disease (CVD). In order to explore effective strategies to prevent and control the source of CVD and reduce its risk, we have established a cohort of HDPs in Shenzhen for the primordial prevention of CVD. The construction of the HDP cohort has already achieved preliminary progress till now. A total of 2 239 HDP women have been recruited in the HDP cohort. We have established a cohort data management platform and Biobank. The follow-up and assessment of postpartum cardiovascular metabolic risk in this cohort has also been launched. Our efforts will help explore the pathophysiological mechanism of HDP, especially the pathogenesis and precision phenotyping, prediction, and prevention of pre-eclampsia, which, therefore, may reduce the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, and provide a bridge to linking HDP and maternal-neonatal cardiovascular, metabolic risk to promote the cardiovascular health of mothers and their infants.

The Application of Adipose Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (ADMSCs) and a Twin-Herb Formula to the Rodent Wound Healing Model: Use Alone or Together?

Our previous study reported that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) accelerated the wound healing process through anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and pro-angiogenetic effects in a rodent skin excision model. NF3 is a twin-herb formula, which presents similar effects in promoting wound healing. Research focusing on the interaction of MSCs and Chinese medicine is limited. In this study, we applied MSCs and the twin-herb formula to the wound healing model and investigated their interactions. Wound healing was improved in all treatment groups (MSCs only, NF3 only, and MSCs + NF3). The combined therapy further enhanced the effect: more GFP-labelled ADMSCs, collagen I and collagen III expression, Sox9 positive cells, and CD31 positive cells, along with less ED-1 positive cells, were detected; the expressions of proinflammatory cytokine IL-6 and TNF-α were downregulated; and the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was upregulated. In vitro, NF3 promoted the cell viability and proliferation ability of MSCs, and a higher concentration of protein was detected in the NF3-treated supernatant. A proteomic analysis showed there were 15 and 22 proteins in the supernatants of normal ADMSCs and NF3-treated ADMSCs, respectively. After PCR validation, the expressions of 11 related genes were upregulated. The results of a western blot suggested that the TGFβ/Smad and Wnt pathways were related to the therapeutic effects of the combined treatment. Our study suggests for the first time that NF3 enhanced the therapeutic effect of MSCs in the wound healing model and the TGFβ/Smad and Wnt pathways were related to the procedure.

[Two cases of herpes simplex keratitis after trans-epithelial photorefractive keratectomy]

We herein report 2 cases of herpes simplex keratitis after trans-epithelial photorefractive keratectomy. Patients' medical histories, symptoms, signs, clinical examination results, diagnosis and treatment were showed in detail. Following precision diagnosis and medical intervention, including topical and systemic antiviral treatmented for 1 to 2 weeks. The two patients were cured with full reepithelialization without corneal scar.

Alterations of regional spontaneous neuronal activity and corresponding brain circuits related to non-suicidal self-injury in young adults with major depressive disorder

BACKGROUND

Major depressive disorder (MDD) with non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI)(MDD/NSSI) has been found to differ from simple MDD without NSSI (sMDD). This study analyzes the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF) to explore the NSSI-relevant local neural activity, and uses functional connectivity (FC) analysis to explore the NSSI-relevant circuits corresponding to alterations in local regions in young adult patients with MDD/NSSI.

METHODS

A total of 54 patients with MDD/NSSI, 68 patients with sMDD, and 66 matched healthy controls (HCs) were recruited. ALFF and seed-based FC analyses were employed. The NSSI-relevant brain alteration and its associations with clinical variables were examined.

RESULTS

Compared with the sMDD group, the MDD/NSSI group showed higher ALFF in the right lingual gyrus and right middle occipital gyrus; lower ALFF in the right superior frontal gyrus; higher FC values between the right lingual gyrus and left precentral gyrus; and lower FC values between the right middle occipital gyrus and right paracentral gyrus. Within the MDD/NSSI group, ALFF values of the right superior frontal gyrus and right lingual gyrus were positively correlated with the frequency and severity of NSSI.

LIMITATIONS

The sample size was small, and the potential influence of medicine on brain activity was not excluded.

CONCLUSIONS

Our preliminary findings indicate that NSSI-relevant ALFF in the right lingual gyrus, right middle occipital gyrus, and right superior frontal gyrus, as well as the alteration FCs in corresponding brain circuits, may play an important role in the neural basis of MDD/NSSI.

Genetic variant in microRNA-146a gene is associated with risk of rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVE

To investigated the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in microRNA-146a (miR-146a) gene and susceptibility of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

METHODS

We systemically extracted the genetic data of miR-146a from previous genome-wide association studies (GWASs) of RA. Subsequently, we performed a replication study in an independent Chinese cohort for selected variant. A meta-analysis combined the previous GWASs with the replication study was also conducted. The epigenetic annotation and cytokine assay were used for exploring potential variant function.

RESULTS

The extracted genetic association data from three previous GWASs showed that the allele T of functional SNP rs2431697 increased RA susceptibility. The significant association for the SNP was also found in the Chinese replication cohort (OR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.06-1.46, p = 8.69E-03). The estimated effect size for this SNP was larger in Asian population than that in European population (Asian meta-analysis: OR = 1.15, 95% CI = 1.09-1.22, p = 4.37E-07; Tran-ethnic meta-analysis: OR = 1.07, 95% CI = 1.04-1.10, p = 1.79E-06). The cytokine assay also showed that the risk allele T of the SNP rs2431697 is inversely associated with plasma TNF-α levels in health controls (p = .016).

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, this study supports that genetic variant in miR-146a gene is associated with RA risk.KEY MESSAGESThe association between SNPs in miR-146a gene and susceptibility of RA was unclear.We investigated the genetic association using GWASs data and a replication study.The SNP rs2431697 in miR-146a gene is associated with RA risk.

[Associations between pre-pregnancy body mass index and occurrence and clinical features of preeclampsia]

Objective: To investigate the associations between pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and occurrence and clinical features in pregnant women complicated by preeclampsia (PE). Methods: We recruited 42 427 pregnant women who were diagnosed with intrauterine pregnancy at Shenzhen Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital from July 2017 to December 2019, with a gestational age of 6~8⁺⁶ weeks, excluding those with basic diseases and incomplete medical records. Among them, 659 were diagnosed with PE. According to the pre-pregnancy BMI, the pregnant women were divided into underweight group (42 cases), normal body weight group (422 cases), overweight group (138 cases) and obesity group (57 cases). Maternal outcomes (the occurrence of preeclampsia, cesarean delivery rate) and neonatal outcomes (birth weight, Apgar score and neonatal ICU admission) were recorded. The maternal outcomes, gestational age of delivery, delivery mode, newborn birth weight, Apgar score and admission to neonatal ICU were compared among the pregnant women in each group. Logistic regression model was established to analyze the influence of different pre-pregnancy BMI on the occurrence and clinical features of PE. Results: The incidence of PE was 1.55% (659/42 427), and the incidence of PE was 0.61% (42/6 941), 1.44% (422/29 297), 2.62% (138/5 273) and 6.22% (57/916) in the underweight group, the normal weight group, the overweight group and the obesity group, respectively. After adjustment for age, parity, educational level, history of preeclampsia, and in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET), compared with normal group, the adjusted OR for developing early-onset PE were 0.57 (95%CI: 0.29-1.02) for underweight, 1.03 (95%CI: 0.65-1.56) for overweight and 2.15 (95%CI: 1.03-4.02) for obesity groups. The OR for developing late-onset PE were 0.50 (95%CI: 0.33-0.72) for underweight, 1.57 (95%CI: 1.23-1.99) for overweight and 4.25 (95%CI: 3.00-5.91) for obesity group. The OR for PE without severe features were 0.54 (95%CI: 0.30-0.89), 1.40 (95%CI: 0.97-1.99) and 5.11 (95%CI: 3.22-7.84) for underweight, overweight and obesity groups, respectively. The OR for severe PE were 0.51 (95%CI: 0.33-0.75), 1.42 (95%CI: 1.10-1.83) and 2.97 (95%CI: 1.95-4.38) for underweight, overweight and obesity groups, respectively. The median neonate birth weight in women with PE were 2 420 g (1 602-2 845 g), 2 435 g (1 692-3 030 g), 2 540 g (1 922-3 132 g), and 2 950 g (2 050-3 360 g) for underweight, normal, overweight and obesity groups, respectively. The neonatal birth weight in obesity group was heavier than that in normal group (P<0.05). The incidence rates of large for gestational age (LGA) in PE women were 0 (0/42), 3.3% (14/422), 7.3% (10/138) and 17.5% (10/57) for underweight, normal, overweight and obesity groups, respectively. The incidence rate of LGA in obesity group was higher than that in normal group (P<0.05). Conclusions: Pre-pregnancy obesity is an independent risk factor for PE. Obesity related PE is more likely associated with late-onset PE and LGA. It is recommended to control weight before pregnancy, limit weight gain during pregnancy and control blood pressure to reduce the incidence of PE and ensure the safety of mother and child.

Substrate Diversity of L-Threonic Acid Dehydrogenase Homologs

Despite physiological importance of aldonic sugar acids for living organisms, little is known about metabolic pathways of these compounds. Here, we investigated the functional diversity of homologs of L-threonic acid dehydrogenase (ThrDH; UniProt ID: Q0KBC7), an enzyme composed of two NAD-binding domains (PF14833 and PF03446). Ten ThrDH homologs with different genomic context were studied; seven new enzymatic activities were identified, such as (R)-pantoate dehydrogenase, L-altronic acid dehydrogenase, 6-deoxy-L-talonate dehydrogenase, L-idonic acid dehydrogenase, D-xylonic acid dehydrogenase, D-gluconic acid dehydrogenase, and 2-hydroxy-3-oxopantoate reductase activities. Two associated metabolic pathways were identified: L-idonic acid dehydrogenase was found to be involved in the degradation of L-idonic acid through oxidation/decarboxylation in Agrobacterium radiobacter K84, while 2-hydroxy-3-oxopantoate reductase was found to participate in D-glucarate catabolism through dehydration/cleavage in Ralstonia metallidurans CH34.

[Radiomics nomogram of MR: a prediction of cervical lymph node metastasis in laryngeal cancer]

Objective: To establish and validate a radiomics nomogram based on MR for predicting cervical lymph node metastasis in laryngeal cancer. Methods: One hundred and seventeen patients with laryngeal cancer who underwent MR examinations and received open surgery and neck dissection between January 2016 and December 2019 were included in this study. All patients were randomly divided into a training cohort (n=89) and test cohort (n=28) using computer-generated random numbers. Clinical characteristics and MR were collected. Radiological features were extracted from the MR images. Enhanced T1 and T2WI were selected for radiomics analysis, and the volume of interest was manually segmented from the Huiyihuiying radiomics cloud platform. The variance analysis (ANOVA) and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm were used to reduce the dimensionality of the radiomics features in the training cohort. Then, a radiomic signature was established. The clinical risk factors were screened by using ANOVA and multivariate logistic regression. A nomogram was generated using clinical risk factors and the radiomic signature. The calibration curve and receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve were used to confirm the nomogram's performance in the training and test sets. The clinical usefulness of the nomogram was evaluated by decision curve analysis (DCA). Furthermore, a testing cohort was used to validate the model. Results: The radiomics signature consisted of 21 features, and the nomogram model included the radiomics signature and the MR-reported lymph node status. The model showed good calibration and discrimination. The model yielded areas under the ROC curve (AUC) in the training cohort, specificity, and sensitivity of 0.930, 0.930 and 0.875. In the test cohort, the model yielded AUC, specificity and sensitivity of 0.883, 0.889 and 0.800. DCA indicated that the nomogram model was clinically useful. Conclusion: The MR-based radiomics nomogram model may be used to predict cervical lymph node metastasis of laryngeal cancer preoperatively. MR-based radiomics could serve as a potential tool to help clinicians make an optimal clinical decision.

A highly sensitive immunoassay of pesticide and veterinary drug residues in food by tandem conjugation of bi-functional mesoporous silica nanospheres

A novel type of enzyme-antibody conjugation using mesoporous silicon nanospheres (MSN) was developed, which amplified the labeling signal and highly increased the sensitivity of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the determination of pesticide and veterinary drug residues in food. First, conjugates were prepared through layer-by-layer immobilization of an enzyme and an antibody on an MSN scaffold. Then the MSN scaffold was employed for labeling and signal amplification to develop a sensitive colorimetric immunoassay through the catalytic oxidation reaction of 5,50-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB). When this MSN-based ELISA was applied to detect chloramphenicol, avermectin, tetracycline and streptomycin in food samples, it provided linear ranges of 0.025 ng ml-1-25 ng ml-1, 0.05 ng ml-1-10 ng ml-1, 0.025 ng ml-1-10 ng ml-1 and 0.05 ng ml-1-25 ng ml-1, respectively, with low detection limits down to 0.011 ng mL-1, 0.134 ng mL-1, 0.015 ng ml-1 and 0.106 ng ml-1, respectively. For avermectin, it provided a 16.7-fold decrease of the limit of detection in contrast to that of standard ELISA without the loss of method specificity and accuracy. This novel immunoassay was hypersensitive, simple and easy-to-use, which made it high potential in applying for the accurate analysis of harmful substances in food.

Identification of new susceptibility loci associated with rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVES

The present study aimed to discover novel susceptibility loci associated with risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

METHODS

We performed a new genome-wide association study (GWAS) in Chinese subjects (1027 RA cases and 2879 controls) and further conducted an expanded meta-analysis with previous GWAS summary data and replication studies. The functional roles of the associated loci were interrogated using publicly available databases. Dual-luciferase reporter and cytokine assay were also used for exploring variant function.

RESULTS

We identified five new susceptibility loci (IL12RB2, BOLL-PLCL1, CCR2, TCF7 and IQGAP1; p_meta <5.00E-08) with same effect direction in each study cohort. The sensitivity analyses showed that the genetic association of at least three loci was reliable and robust. All these lead variants are expression quantitative trait loci and overlapped with epigenetic marks in immune cells. Furthermore, genes within the five loci are genetically associated with risk of other autoimmune diseases, and genes within four loci are known functional players in autoimmunity, which supports the validity of our findings. The reporter assay showed that the risk allele of rs8030390 in IQGAP1 have significantly increased reporter activity in HEK293T cells. In addition, the cytokine assay found that the risk allele of rs244672 in TCF7 was most significantly associated with increased plasma IL-17A levels in healthy controls. Finally, identified likely causal genes in these loci significantly interacted with RA drug targets.

CONCLUSION

This study identified novel RA risk loci and highlighted that comprehensive genetic study can provide important information for RA pathogenesis and drug therapy.

Actein Inhibits Tumor Growth and Metastasis in HER2-Positive Breast Tumor Bearing Mice via Suppressing AKT/mTOR and Ras/Raf/MAPK Signaling Pathways

HER2-positive breast cancer accounts for 15–20% in breast cancer and 50% of the metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer patients died of central nervous system progression. The present study investigated the effects of actein (a natural cycloartane triterpene) on cells adhesion, migration, proliferation and matrix degradation, and its underlying mechanism in HER2-positive breast cancer cells. The in vivo effect of actein on tumor growth and metastasis in MDA-MB-361 tumor-bearing mice as well as the anti-brain metastasis in tail vein injection mice model were also investigated. Our results showed that actein inhibited HER2-positive breast cancer cells viability, proliferation and migration. Actein also induced MDA-MB-361 cells G1 phase arrest and inhibited the expressions of cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases. For intracellular mechanisms, actein inhibited the expressions of molecules in AKT/mTOR and Ras/Raf/MAPK signaling pathways. Furthermore, actein (15 mg/kg) was shown to exhibit anti-tumor and anti-metastatic activities in MDA-MB-361 breast tumor-bearing mice, and reduced brain metastasis in tail vein injection mice model. All these findings strongly suggested that actein is a potential anti-metastatic agent for HER2-positive breast cancer.

Ultra-long high quality catalyst-free WO3 nanowires for fabricating high-performance visible photodetectors

This work presents a study on the controlled growth of WO₃ nanowires via chemical vapor deposition without catalyst, and their potential applications in visible photodetectors. The influence of growth conditions on the morphology of WO₃ nanowires is studied in order to understand the growth mechanism of WO₃ nanowires, and ultra-long (60 [Formula: see text], the longest one ever reported) WO₃ nanowires with a spindle shape are achieved by optimizing the growth conditions. It was found that the length of WO₃ nanowires increases from 15 [Formula: see text] to 60 [Formula: see text] with increasing the argon carrier gas flow rate from 30 sccm to 90 sccm, and then saturates with further increasing the argon carrier gas flow rate. However, the length of WO₃ nanowires reduces from 60 [Formula: see text] to 19 [Formula: see text] with increasing the tube inner pressure from 2.5 Torr to 3.5 Torr. The photoconductor detectors based on WO₃ single nanowires present excellent device performance with a responsivity as high as 19 A W^-1 at a bias of 0.1 V, a detectivity as high as 1.06 × 10¹¹ Jones, and a response (rising and decay) time as short as 8 ms under the illumination of a 404 nm laser. These results indicate the great potential of WO₃ nanowires for applications in fabricating high performance visible photodetectors.

[A multicenter survey of the accessibility of essential medicines for children in China]

Objective: To investigate the availability, prices and affordability of essential medicines in pediatric population across China, in the hope of improving rational use of medicines. Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional survey of medicine prices, availability and affordability was conducted in 17 provinces, municipalities and autonomous region across east, south-central part, west and north of China. Data on 42 medicines used in pediatric population, both original and generic, were collected in 55 public hospitals from May 26 to June 2, 2017. Availability was expressed as the percentage of hospitals with stock of the target medicine on the day of data collection,and median price ratio (MPR) was the ratio of price upon investigation to international reference. Based on national minimum daily wage, affordability represents the number of working days needed to earn the expense which covers a standard course using the target medicine. Statistical software SPSS 13.0 was applied for descriptive analysis of availability, MPR and affordability. Results: Mean Availability of original and generic medicine was 33% and 32%, with median MPR being 5.43 and 1.55. Among the 19 medicines with price information for both original and generic product, the median MPR was 7.73 and 2.04 respectively. Regarding the five medicines used to treat four common pediatric diseases (pneumonia,peptic ulcer, congenital hypothyroidism, refractory nephrotic syndrome), the affordability was 0.63 (0.16-6.17) d for generic medicine, and 1.03 (0.16-11.53) d for its original counterpart. Conclusions: The availability to both original and generic products of the 42 medicines used in pediatric population was low in China. The prices of generic medicines seem to be lower and affordability higher than those of original medicines. There is an urgent need to improve the availability and affordability of pediatric medicines.

The Association Between the Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha Gene -308A/G Polymorphism and Chronic Pancreatitis: A Meta-Analysis

Background: Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is a major proinflammatory cytokine that has been posited to be involved in the development of chronic pancreatitis (CP). Several studies have been carried out that explored the association between the TNF-α -308A/G polymorphism and CP; however, conflicting results have emerged. The aim of this study was to perform a meta-analysis to provide a more precise assessment of the relationship between the TNF-α -308A/G polymorphism and CP risk. Methods: Case-control studies were identified using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure through January 2019 from which seven were identified that met all inclusion criteria. Results: This meta-analysis included 695 CP cases and 742 controls. A positive association was found between the A allele and the risk of CP using the additive model (OR [odds ratio] = 1.83, 95% CI [confidence interval] = 1.08-3.10). We also found, after excluding the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium-violating studies, that the AA genotype was significantly associated with CP in both the additive and recessive models (OR = 2.28, 95% CI = 1.27-4.07; OR = 2.19, 95% CI = 1.26-3.81). Conclusion: This meta-analysis indicates that the A allele of the TNF-α -308A/G polymorphism increases the risk of CP.

[Observation on the distribution of nerve fibers and neural cells morphology in Aspidogaster conchiola]

OBJECTIVE

To understand the distribution of nerve fibers and the types of neural cells in Aspidogaster conchiola.

METHODS

Whole worms were subjected to silver staining, histochemical staining and hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, and the nervous systems of the worms were observed.

RESULTS

There were 3 types of neural cells in the worm head near the cerebral ganglion, including unipolar, bipolar and multipolar neurons, which were divided into 7 types according to the morphology. There was a nerve network on the surface of pharynx and intestinal tract, as well as the reproductive organ, including testis, ovary, lower uterus and penis sac. The nerve network was consisted of circular and longitudinal nerve fibers, and the structure of the nerve network around the mouth was similar to central nerve.

CONCLUSIONS

The structure of the A. conchiola central nervous system is very complicated, and the neural networks may be associated with the physiologic activity of the worm. Different neural cells may have diverse functions.

[Effect of psoralen on the stability after orthodontic tooth movement in rats]

PURPOSE

This study was designed to investigate the effect of psoralen on periodontal tissue reconstruction after orthodontic tooth movement(OTM) in rats.

METHODS

Thirty-six male 6-week-old Wistar rats were randomly divided into 2 groups: the experimental group and the control group. The experimental group and the control group were all installed between the central incisor and the left maxillary first molars to pull the first molars away from the force device; after 21 days, the force was removed and the rats in 2 groups were given drug gavage. Rats in the experimental group were given a gavage of psoralen 8 mg/kg per day, while rats in the control group were given the same amount of 0.9% sodium chloride everyday. Maxillary casts were made every week during the experimental and were scanned by 3D Scanner to measure relapse distance, and histologic examination was conducted. After 28 days, the rats were sacrificed and rats' upper jaw was separated. The remaining sections were immunohistochemically stained with BMP2 and BMP4. SPSS 19.0 software package was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS：Both groups had relapse after the force device was removed. Significant decrease of relapse percentage was observed in the experimental group compared with the control group at day 7，day 14，day 21 and day 28（P<0.05）. The speed of relapse of both groups were fastest in the first week and slowed down in the second, third and fourth week gradually. The speed of relapse in the experimental group in the first week was significantly less than in the control group(P<0.05).The expression of BMP2 and BMP4 within periodontal membrane and alveolar bone was significantly higher in the experimental group than in the control group(P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Psoralen can accelerate the reconstruction of periodontal tissues of orthodontic tooth and reduce relapse.

Actein Inhibits the Proliferation and Adhesion of Human Breast Cancer Cells and Suppresses Migration in vivo

Background and purpose: Metastasis is an important cause of death in breast cancer patients. Anti-metastatic agents are urgently needed since standard chemotherapeutics cannot diminish the metastatic rate. Actein, a cycloartane triterpenoid, has been demonstrated to exhibit anti-angiogenic and anti-cancer activities. Its anti-metastatic activity and underlying mechanisms were evaluated in the present study.

Methods: The effects of actein on the proliferation, cell cycle phase distribution, migration, motility and adhesion were evaluated using two human breast cancer cell lines, MDA-MB-231 (estrogen receptor-negative) and MCF-7 cells (estrogen receptor-positive) in vitro. Western blots and real-time PCR were employed to examine the protein and mRNA expression of relevant signaling pathways. A human metastatic breast cancer cell xenograft model was established in transparent zebrafish embryos to examine the anti-migration effect of actein in vivo.

Results:In vitro results showed that actein treatment significantly decreased cell proliferation, migration and motility. Furthermore, actein significantly caused G1 phase cell cycle arrest and suppressed the protein expression of matrix metalloproteinases of MDA-MB-231 cells. In addition, actein inhibited breast cancer cell adhesion to collagen, also reduced the expression of integrins. Actein treatment down-regulated the protein expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), AKT and NF-κB signaling proteins. In vivo results demonstrated that actein (60 μM) significantly decreased the number of zebrafish embryos with migrated cells by 74% and reduced the number of migrated cells in embryos.

Conclusion: Actein exhibited anti-proliferative, anti-adhesion and anti-migration activities, with the underlying mechanisms involved the EGFR/AKT and NF-kappaB signalings. These findings shed light for the development of actein as novel anti-migration natural compound for advanced breast cancer.

Detection and quantification analysis of chemical migrants in plastic food contact products

Plastic food contact materials (FCM)-based products were widely used in everyday life. These products were normally imposed to strict regulations in order to pass the enforcement tests of compliance as a prefix condition. However, even in these “qualified” materials, unknown chemical substances, not involving in legislation lists, could migrate from FCM. In this perspective, the present work aims to thoroughly analyze by means of Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) the different substances/migrants in 120 qualified FCM plastic products. Unexpectedly, among the identified compounds (nearly 100), only 13% was included in the permitted list of Commission Regulation EU No 10/2011. All the identified compounds were classified into 11 categories according to their chemical structure and the FCM type, whereas toxicology data were in addition analyzed. Each plastic type exhibited different preferences of chemical migrants. Fortunately, most of the compounds identified were of low toxicity, and only 4 chemicals were included in priority lists and previous literature reports as potential risk factors. Subsequently, the accurate amount of these 4 chemicals was determined. The amount of Bis(2-ethylhexyl) adipate (DEHA) and Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) were lower than the SML in Commission Regulation EU No 10/2011, and that of stearamide was under the recommended use quantity. The 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol (2,4-DTBP) was widely exist in the investigated FCM products. Among them, the highest level is obtained in polypropylene/low density polyethylene (BOPP/LDPE) materials, up to 45.568±31.513 mg/kg. In summary, a panel of unlisted chemical migrants were discovered and identified by GS-MS screening. The results implied that plastic FCMs were not so “inert” as they usually considered, and further safety evaluation should be performed toward the complete identification of new substances in FCM products.

Discrete Superconducting Phases in FeSe-Derived Superconductors

A general feature of unconventional superconductors is the existence of a superconducting dome in the phase diagram. Here we report a series of discrete superconducting phases in the simplest iron-based superconductor, FeSe thin flakes, by continuously tuning the carrier concentration through the intercalation of Li and Na ions with a solid ionic gating technique. Such discrete superconducting phases are robust against the substitution of 20% S for Se, but they are vulnerable to the substitution of 2% Cu for Fe, highlighting the importance of the iron site being intact. The superconducting phase diagram for FeSe derivatives is given, which is distinct from that of other unconventional superconductors.

MEK inhibitor, PD98059, promotes breast cancer cell migration by inducing β-catenin nuclear accumulation

Abnormal activation of the RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway has been observed in breast cancer. Thus, a number of MEK inhibitors have been designed as one treatment option for breast cancer. Although some studies have found that these MEK inhibitors inhibit the growth of a variety of human cancer cells, some trials have shown that the use of MEK inhibitors as a treatment for breast cancer does not adequately improve survival for unknown reasons. In the present study, MEK inhibitor PD98059 was used to evaluate its anticancer effects on human breast cancer MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells and to explore the possible mechanism of action. Our results revealed that MEK inhibitor PD98059 exhibited antiproliferative effects in a dose- and time-dependent manner in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Conversely, incubation of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells with PD98059 promoted their migration. Further investigation disclosed that the enhanced ability of migration promoted by PD98059 was dependent on β-catenin nuclear translocation in the MCF-7 and MDA-MB‑231 cells. Subsequent experiments documented that activation of EGFR signaling induced by PD98059 increased the amount of β-catenin in the nucleus. Taken together, our findings may elucidate a possible mechanism explaining the ineffectiveness of MEK inhibitors in breast cancer treatment and improve our understanding of the role of MEK in cancer.

[Association between single nucleotide polymorphism of BARD1 gene and BRCA1 gene mutation in epithelial ovarian cancer]

Objective: To investigate the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of BARD1 gene and BRCA1 gene in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Methods: Nineteen EOC patients with BRCA1 gene mutation and 50 EOC cases without BRCA1 gene mutation between January 2016 and October 2016 were collected, and all EOC were diagnosed by pathological method. BARD1 gene variants were detected by next generation sequencing (NGS). The SNP of BARD1 gene was analyzed by Pearson linear correlation. Logistic regression analysis was used to research the clinicopathologic features and BRCA1 gene mutation associated with BARD1 gene SNP. Pearson's chi-square test was used to analyze the association between BARD1 gene Val507Met, Arg378Ser and Pro24Ser with different clinicopathologic features and BRCA1 gene mutation risk. Results: (1) Eight BARD1 gene variants were found in 69 ovarian cancer patients, in which Val507Met, Arg378Ser and Pro24Ser were common variants, and the rate of mutation were all 54% (37/69). (2) There was a significant linear correlation among Val507Met, Arg378Ser and Pro24Ser (all P<0.01). (3) Obvious differences were found in Val507Met, Arg378Ser and Pro24Ser of BARD1 gene between BRCA1(+) and BRCA1(-) (all P<0.05) . (4) No differences were found between BARD1 gene Val507Met, Arg378Ser and Pro24Ser and the clinicopathologic features (all P>0.05), while obvious differences were found in BRCA1 gene mutation compared to the controls group. The risk of BRCA1 mutation in Val507Met and Arg378Ser were more evident in subjects with negative family history, positive menopause history, negative tubal ligation, onset age (≤60 years old) and sensitivity to platinum-based chemotherapy in EOC (all P<0.05), while Pro24Ser was only more evident in positive menopause history of EOC (P<0.05). Conclusions: BARD1 Val507Met, Arg378Ser and Pro24Ser are the common genotypes, which are associated with BRCA1 mutation in EOC. The family history, menopause history, tubal ligation, onset age and sensitivity to platinum-based chemotherapy have effects on BARD1 SNP in the risk of BRCA1 gene mutation.

[Clinical significance and distribution of BRCA genes mutation in sporadic high grade serous ovarian cancer]

Objective: To investigate the mutations of BRCA genes in sporadic high grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) and study its clinical significance. Methods: Sixty-eight patients between January 2015 and January 2016 from the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University were collected who were based on pathological diagnosis of ovarian cancer and had no reported family history, and all patients firstly hospitalized were untreated in other hospitals before. (1) The BRCA genes were detected by next-generation sequencing (NGS) method. (2) The serum tumor markers included carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), CA(125), CA(199), and human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) were detected by the chemiluminescence methods, and their correlation was analyzed by Pearson linear correlation. Descriptive statistics and comparisons were performed using two-tailed t-tests, Pearson's chi square test, Fisher's exact tests or logistic regression analysis as appropriate to research the clinicopathologic features associated with BRCA mutations, including age, International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage, platinum-based chemotherapy sensitivity, distant metastases, serum tumor markers (STM) . Results: (1) Fifteen cases (22%, 15/68) BRCA mutations were identified (BRCA1: 11 cases; BRCA2: 4 cases), and four novel mutations were observed. (2) The levels of CEA, CA(199), and HE4 were lower in BRCA mutations compared to that in control group, while no significant differences were found (P>0.05), but the level of CA(125) was much higher in BRCA mutation group than that in controls (t=-3.536, P=0.003). Further linear regression analysis found that there was a significant linear correlation between CA(125) and HE4 group (r=0.494, P<0.01), and the same correlation as CEA and CA(199) group (r=0.897, P<0.01). (3) Single factor analysis showed that no significant differences were observed in onset age, FIGO stage, distant metastasis, and STM between BRCA(+) and BRCA(-) group (P>0.05), while significant differences were found in CA(125) and sensitivity to platinum-based chemotherapy between the patients with BRCA mutation and wild type (P<0.05). The multiple factors analysis showed that the high level of CA(125) was a independent risk factor of BRCA mutations in sporadic HGSOC (P=0.007). Conclusion: The combination of CA(125) with BRCA have great clinical significance, the mutation of BRCA gene could guild the clinical chemotherapy regiments.

Ectopic expression of Arabidopsis thaliana Na+(K+)/H+ antiporter gene, AtNHX5, enhances soybean salt tolerance

Drought and salt stresses are the two major factors influencing the yield and quality of crops worldwide. Na(+)(K(+))/H(+) antiporters (NHXs) are ubiquitous membrane proteins that play important roles in maintaining the cellular pH and Na(+)(K(+)) homeostasis. The model plant Arabidopsis potentially encodes six NHX genes, namely AtNHX1 to 6. In the present study, AtNHX5, a comparatively less well-studied NHX, was cloned and transferred into a soybean variety, Dongnong-50, via Agrobacterium-mediated cotyledonary node transformation to assess its role in improving salt tolerance of the transgenic plants. The transgenic soybean plants were tolerant to the presence of 300 mM NaCl whereas the non-transgenic plants were not. Furthermore, after NaCl treatment, the transgenic plants had a higher content of free proline but lower content of malondialdehyde compared to the non-transgenic plants. Our results revealed that that AtNHX5 possibly functioned by efficiently transporting Na(+) and K(+) ions from the roots to the leaves. Overall, the results obtained in this study suggest that soybean salt tolerance could be improved through the over expression of Arabidopsis AtNHX5.

Effects and Mechanism of Combination of Rhein and Danshensu in the Treatment of Chronic Kidney Disease

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) plays a systemic role in disease treatment, targeting multiple etiological factors simultaneously. Based on clinical experience, rhubarb and Salvia miltiorrhiza are commonly prescribed together for the treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and have been proven to be very effective. However, the rationale of the combination remains unclear. The major active ingredients of these two herbs are rhein (RH) and danshensu (DSS), respectively. The aim of this paper is to investigate the renoprotective effects of RH and DSS in vitro and in vivo, and the underlying mechanism. A total of 5/6 nephrectomy rats and HK-2 cells were subjected to chronic renal injury. The combination of RH and DSS conferred a protective effect, as shown by a significant improvement in the renal function, blood supply, and fibrotic degree. Proinflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules were suppressed by RH and DSS through NK-κB signaling. The combination also inhibited apoptosis by up-regulating Bcl-2 and down-regulating Bax. Inhibiting the TGF-β/Smad3 pathway was at least in part involved in the antifibrotic mechanism of the combination treatment of RH and DSS. This study demonstrates for the first time the renoprotective effect and the mechanism of RH and DSS combination on chronic renal injury. It could provide experimental evidence to support the rationality of the combinatorial use of TCM in clinical practices.

PRESBYOPIA OPTOMETRY METHOD BASED ON DIOPTER REGULATION AND CHARGE COUPLE DEVICE IMAGING TECHNOLOGY

With the development of photoelectric technology and single-chip microcomputer technology, objective optometry, also known as automatic optometry, is becoming precise. This paper proposed a presbyopia optometry method based on diopter regulation and Charge Couple Device (CCD) imaging technology and, in the meantime, designed a light path that could measure the system. This method projects a test figure to the eye ground and then the reflected image from the eye ground is detected by CCD. The image is then automatically identified by computer and the far point and near point diopters are determined to calculate lens parameter. This is a fully automatic objective optometry method which eliminates subjective factors of the tested subject. Furthermore, it can acquire the lens parameter of presbyopia accurately and quickly and can be used to measure the lens parameter of hyperopia, myopia and astigmatism.

Identification of differentially expressed genes associated with flower color in peach using genome-wide transcriptional analysis

Flower color is an important trait of the ornamental peach (Prunus persica L.). However, the mechanism responsible for the different colors that appear in the same genotype remains unclear. In this study, red samples showed higher anthocyanins content (0.122 ± 0.009 mg/g), which was significantly different from that in white samples (0.066 ± 0.010 mg/g). Similarly to carotenoids content, red extract (0.058 ± 0.004 mg/L) was significantly higher in white extract (0.015 ± 0.004 mg/L). We estimated gene expression using Illumina sequencing technology in libraries from white and red flower buds. A total of 3,599,960 and 3,464,141 tags were sequenced from the 2 libraries, respectively. Moreover, we identified 106 significantly differentially expressed genes between the 2 libraries. Among these, 78 and 28 represented transcripts with a higher or lower abundance of more than 2-fold than in the white flower library, respectively. GO annotation indicated that highly ranked genes were involved in the pigment biosynthetic process. Expression patterns of 11 genes were verified using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction assays. The results suggest that hydroxycinnamoyl-coenzyme A shikimate/quinate hydroxycinnamoyltransferase, 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase, isoflavone reductase, riboflavin kinase, zeta-carotene desaturase, and ATP binding cassette transporter may be associated with the flower color formation. Our results may be useful for scientists focusing on Prunus persica floral development and biotechnology.

Construction and analysis of a suppression subtractive hybridization library of regeneration-related genes in soybean

The development of a genetic transformation system is needed to address the problem of the low efficiency associated with soybean regeneration. To contribute to the enhancement of the soybean regenerative capacity, we explored the developmental mechanisms of soybean regeneration at the molecular level using a suppression subtractive hybridization cDNA library constructed from cotyledonary nodes of soybean cultivar DN50. A total of 918 positive clones were identified and screened, with most inserted fragments ranging from 100 to 750 bp. Of these, 411 differentially expressed functional expressed sequence tags were identified and annotated based on their similarity to orthologs and paralogs detected in GenBank using the nucleotide and translated nucleotide Basic Local Alignment Search Tools. Functional analysis revealed that the associated genes were involved in signal transduction, synthesis, and metabolism of macromolecules, glucose and protein synthesis and metabolism, light and leaf morphogenesis, regulation of apoptosis, cell defense, cell wall differentiation, and a variety of hormone and cytokinin-mediated signaling pathways. The information uncovered in our study should serve as a foundation for the establishment of an efficient and stable genetic transformation system for soybean regeneration.

Genetic diversity of HLA-DRB1 alleles in the Tujia population of Wufeng, Hubei Province, China

We established a genetic database by investigating human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DRB1 allelic frequencies in a disease-association study in the Tujia population in Wufang, Hubei, China. The allele frequencies of the HLA-DRB1 locus in 262 healthy, unrelated Tujia individuals living in the Wufeng region of the Hubei Province were analyzed using the Luminex HLA sequence-specific oligonucleotide method with a WAKFlow HLA typing kit. A total of 13 alleles were detected at the HLA-DRB1 locus. HLA-DRB1*09 was the most common allele (22.52%), followed by DRB1*08 and DRB1*15 (11.07%), and DRB1*12 and DRB1*04 (10.69%). These data were compared with the results obtained for 10 other ethnic groups living in other regions as well as to Han groups using neighbor-joining dendrograms and principal component analysis. The results showed that the Tujia population has a close genetic relationship with the Middle Han population at the HLA-DRB1 locus. This information will be useful for HLA-DRB1-linked disease-association studies.

Annexin A5 anticoagulant activity in children with systemic lupus erythematosus and the association with antibodies to domain I of β2-glycoprotein I

Children with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have a high prevalence of antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies and are at increased risk for aPL-related thrombosis. We investigated the association between annexin A5 anticoagulant activity and antibodies to the domain I portion of β2-glycoprotein I (anti-DI antibodies), and propose a potential mechanism for the pathogenesis of aPL-related thrombosis. Using samples from 183 children with SLE collected during the Atherosclerosis Prevention in Pediatric Lupus Erythematosus (APPLE) trial, we examined resistance to the anticoagulant effects of annexin A5, using the annexin A5 resistance (A5R) assay, and evaluated for anti-DI IgG antibodies. Children with SLE had higher frequency of anti-D1 antibodies (p = 0.014) and significantly reduced A5R compared to pediatric controls: mean A5R = 172 ± 30% versus 242 ± 32% (p < 0.0001). Children with SLE and positive anti-DI antibodies had significantly lower mean A5R levels compared to those with negative anti-DI antibodies: mean A5R = 155 ± 24% versus 177 ± 30% (p < 0.0001). In multivariate analysis, anti-DI antibodies (p = 0.013) and lupus anticoagulant (LA) (p = 0.036) were both independently associated with reduced A5R. Children with SLE have significantly reduced annexin A5 anticoagulant activity that is associated with the presence of LA and anti-DI antibodies.

First Report of Ralstonia solanacearum Causing Bacterial Wilt of Yacon in China

Yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) is an important cash crop in Yunnan Province, China. In 2003, yacon was introduced to Yunnan province as a novelty root crop and as an experimental source of natural sugars; now more than 15 provinces cultivate the crop. Yunnan is one of the major yacon producing areas of China, with up to 10,000 ha yielding up to 50,000 t of yacon, which is nearly half of the production in China. In April and May 2010, bacterial wilt of yacon was observed in the fields of Lion Mountain of Wuding County, Yunnan Province, China. In 2011, the disease occurred in approximately 1 ha of yacon, resulting in 10% crop loss in that area. The initial symptoms observed were irregular, black, necrotic lesions on leaf margins. After 4 to 7 days, leaves became totally necrotic, plants wilted, and black stripes were observed on plant stems. Within 2 to 3 weeks, more than 70% of leaves within the crop were wilted. Subsequently, the plants died and stems became brittle. When dead plants were pulled from the soil, tubers were found to have turned black. When diseased stems and/or petioles were cut with a sterile sharp knife or razor blade, bacterial ooze appeared on the cut ends. High populations of morphologically uniform bacteria were isolated from the diseased plants by conventional methods. When cultured on TZC (2,3,5-Triphenylte tetrazolium chloride) agar medium (3), colonies were large, elevated, fluidal, and entirely white with a pale red center. The isolated bacterium was gram-negative, grew aerobically, and did not form endospores. The cells were 0.5 to 0.7 × 1.5 to 2.0 μm and nonencapsulated. Ralstonia solanacearum was identified and confirmed as the pathogen on the basis of morphological and physiological characteristics, pathogenicity test, and 16S rDNA sequence analysis (1,4). The nucleotide sequence is available in GenBank (Accession No. HQ176322.1). The pathogenic strain belonged to race 1 and biovar 3 according to the pathogenicity and carbohydrate utilization tests (2). Koch's postulates were tested in the greenhouse, with 10 plants inoculated per species. Plants were inoculated with 15 μl of cell suspension containing 10⁶ to 10⁷ CFU ml^-1 deposited into the third axilla with a capillary tube. The bacteria could infect tomato, pepper, tobacco, potato, common sage (Salvia dugesii Fernald), and patchouli, and caused typical symptoms of wilt and black lesions, but could not infect leaves of swamp mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta Smith), stramonium (Dature stramonium Datura L.), ginger, or maize. To our knowledge, this is the first report of yacon as a host of R. solanacearum. Since the pathogen has a wide host range, monitoring of the vegetation in and around yacon fields should be implemented as a mandatory management measure to prevent disease spread. References: (1) C. A. Boucher et al. J. Bacteriol. 169:5626, 1987. (2) A. C. Hayward. J. Appl. Bacteriol. 27:265, 1964. (3) A. Kelman. Phytopathology 44:693, 1954. (4) W. G. Weisburg et al. J. Bacteriol. 173:697, 1991.

Association of SCD1 and DGAT1 SNPs with the intramuscular fat traits in Chinese Simmental cattle and their distribution in eight Chinese cattle breeds

Intramuscular fat (IMF) is a key parameter for evaluation of nutritional quality of beef, with its endogenous synthesis regulated by stearoyl CoA desaturase (SCD1) and diacylglycerol-acyl transferase 1 (DGAT1) genes in cattle. The object of this research was to evaluate the effect of SCD1 and DGAT1 polymorphisms on IMF trait in beef cattle and to estimate the frequency distribution of SNPs in the two genes in Chinese cattle populations. The SCD1 and DGAT1 polymorphisms were detected by PCR-single strand conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP) method in Chinese Simmental cattle and their associations with IMF traits were analyzed using the general linear model (GLM). The frequency distribution of SNPs in SCD1 and DGAT1 genes were detected by PCR-SSCP method and analyzed in seven other cattle populations. The results showed significant associations of SNPs SCD1-878, SCD1-762, and DGAT1 10433 and 10434 with IMF (%) and shearing force values (SFV; kg) in Chinese Simmental cattle. A haplotype combining SCD1-878C, SCD1-762T, and DGAT1 10433 and 10434-GC had the highest IMF, marbling score and shearing force. The polymorphic investigation indicated that the frequency of SCD1-878C or SCD1-762T was significantly higher in Chinese southern cattle (Leiqiong, Yunnan High pump, BMY or Minnan Cattle) than in Chinese northern cattle (Chinese Simmental, Luxi Cattle, Bohai Black or Chinese Holstein), while the frequency of DGAT1 10433 and 10434-GC in Chinese indigenous breed (Leiqiong, Yunnan High pump, BMY, Luxi Cattle, Bohai Black, or Minnan Cattle) was significantly lower than breeds with imported blood (Chinese Simmental or Chinese Holstein). These findings demonstrated that both the SCD1 and DGAT1 SNPs were prospect genetic markers for IMF traits, and the SCD1 SNPs could be used as a genetic marker for southern or northern blood in Chinese cattle.

Resistance to annexin A5 anticoagulant activity: a thrombogenic mechanism for the antiphospholipid syndrome

The phospholipid binding protein, annexin A5 (AnxA5), has potent anticoagulant properties that result from its forming 2-dimensional crystals over phospholipids, blocking the availability of the phospholipids for critical coagulation enzyme reactions. This article reviews the evidence that antiphospholipid antibodies can disrupt this anticoagulant shield and unmask thrombogenic anionic phospholipids, which may thereby contribute to thrombosis in patients with the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). This mechanism for thrombosis in APS can be monitored with coagulation assays for resistance to anticoagulant activity of AnxA5.

A low molecular weight polysaccharide isolated from Agaricus blazei suppresses tumor growth and angiogenesis in vivo

Previous studies indicated that the low molecular weight polysaccharide extracts from Agaricus blazei are potential antitumor agents or adjuvant in tumor treatment. In this study, we investigated the antitumor activity of LMPAB, a low molecular weight polysaccharide isolated from Agaricus blazei, and the molecular mechanisms of its antitumor activity. The antitumor effect of LMPAB was examined using mouse sarcoma 180 (S180) xenograft models. Antiangiogenic effect of LMPAB was determined by chicken embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) angiogenesis and Matrigel-induced neovascularization in vivo models. The mRNA and protein levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were assessed using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Tumor inhibitory rates in the S180 xenograft models were 9.7, 23.9, and 33.0%, respectively, after administration of LMPAB at dose of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg/day for 2 weeks. LMPAB also inhibited angiogenesis in the CAM model and Matrigel-induced neovascularization in C57BL/6 mice. The mRNA and protein levels of VEGF in tumor tissues were significantly down-regulated in the BALB/c mice received LMPAB treatment. Furthermore, significant down-regulation of serum VEGF levels was also observed in the mice. Our data suggest that LMPAB might be a promising agent for tumor therapy, and the antitumor and antiangiogenic effects of LMPAB may be related with down-regulation of VEGF.

Primary malignant fibrous histiocytoma of the thyroid

AIMS AND METHODS

To study the clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of primary malignant fibrous histiocytoma of the thyroid (MFH-T). Treatment and outcome were analyzed retrospectively in a consecutive series of 12 patients with primary MFH-T treated at the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences from 1987 to 2007.

RESULTS

All 12 patients underwent surgery; surgery alone was used in four patients. Five patients were given post-operative radiotherapy, and one patient was given pre-operative radiotherapy. Two patients were given post-operative chemotherapy. Five patients had locoregional recurrence, and five had distant metastases in follow-up. Median survival was 9 months. One patient is alive, and has no evidence of disease. Six patients died six months after treatment, and the other four patients died in 10, 14, 18, and 24 months after treatment, respectively. Nine patients died of the disease, and one patient died of cerebral hemorrhage after treatment.

CONCLUSION

Primary MFH-T is very rare and has a poor prognosis. Although surgical resection of MFH-T is the treatment of choice in MFH-T, the results are unsatisfactory.

Enhanced susceptibility of adriamycin-treated human renal cell carcinoma cells to lysis by peripheral blood lymphocytes and tumor infiltrating lymphocytes

Previous studies indicated that the anticancer agent adriamycin (ADR) could induce activation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) and natural killer cells. In this study, we investigated the effect of ADR on the susceptibility of human renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cells to lysis by peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) and tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL). Treatment of human RCC cell line ACHN and freshly derived RCC cells with ADR at 1 microg/ml or more for 3 h significantly enhanced their susceptibility to lysis by PBL (P<0.05). This ADR-induced enhancement of susceptibility of RCC cells to lysis by PBL was also observed when freshly derived TIL were used as effector cells (P<0.05). ADR up-regulated the expression of leukocyte function-associated antigen-3 (LFA-3) and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), which are critical in the binding and killing of CTL against cancer cells. Of the five fresh RCC cell cultures treated with ADR, LFA-3 was increased in all and ICAM-1 was increased in three of them, respectively (P<0.05). Up-regulation of LFA-3 and ICAM-1 was also observed in ACHN cells treated with two derivatives of ADR, epirubicin and pirarubicin. ADR further significantly increased the bindings of PBL to RCC cells (P<0.05). These findings suggest that treatment of RCC patients with low doses of ADR may sensitize the RCC cells to killing by PBL and TIL and may be a novel immunotherapeutic modality for the treatment of drug-resistant and/or immune-resistant RCC. The inducing of LFA-3 and ICAM-1 by ADR may be involved in the enhancement of susceptibility of PBL and TIL-mediated cytolysis in human RCC cells.

Monoclonal antibody to tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand receptor 2 (TRAIL-R2) induces apoptosis in primary renal cell carcinoma cells in vitro and inhibits tumor growth in vivo

Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) triggers apoptosis in a variety of tumor cells through two of its receptors: TRAIL-R1 and TRAIL-R2. We investigate the susceptibility of human renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cells to TRM-1 and HGS-ETR2, 2 human monoclonal agonistic antibodies specific for TRAIL-R1 and TRAIL-R2, respectively. HGS-ETR2 effectively induced apoptotic cell death in 10 of 11 cell cultures, including 2 human RCC cell lines and 9 human primary RCC cell cultures, with a more pronounced effect after preincubation with anti-human IgG Fc. In contrast, TRM-1 was effective in only 1 primary RCC cell culture. The increased effectiveness of HGS-ETR2 for inducing cell death might have been affected by differences in the cell-surface expression of the 2 TRAIL receptors, namely that TRAIL-R2 but not TRAIL-R1 was frequently expressed in most of the RCC cells tested. The activities of caspase-9, -8, -6, and -3 were increased with HGS-ETR2-induced apoptosis, and cell death could be blocked by specific caspase inhibitors for caspase-9, -8, and -3, and the general caspase inhibitor. In vivo administration of HGS-ETR2 with or without cross-linker significantly suppressed tumor growth of subcutaneously inoculated human RCC xenografts in immunodeficient mice. These results suggest the potential utility of TRAIL-R2 antibody as a novel therapeutic agent in RCC.

Defective annexin A5 crystallization: a mechanism for pregnancy losses in the antiphospholipid syndrome

We have accumulated a significant body of evidence that support the hypothesis that aPL antibody-mediated disruption of annexin A5 crystallization is a mechanism for RSPL in the APS. Further investigation of the functions of the annexins in placental physiology and disease are likely to be productive areas for future research.

Enhancement of arsenic trioxide-induced apoptosis in renal cell carcinoma cells by L-buthionine sulfoximine

Arsenic trioxide (As2O3) induces clinical remission in acute promyelocytic leukemic patients and apoptosis in various tumor cells in vitro. To develop As2O3-based combination chemotherapy for renal cell carcinoma (RCC), we investigated the cytotoxic effects of As2O3 in combination with chemotherapeutic agents or L-buthionine sulfoximine (BSO), a glutathione (GSH) synthesis inhibitor. Cytotoxicity and synergy were assessed by the MTT assay and isobolographic analysis, respectively. Apoptosis was monitored by Hoechst 33342 staining, flow cytometrical analysis, and DNA fragmentation assay. Treatment of ACHN cells with As2O3 in combination with adriamycin, vinblastine, or 5-fluorouracil induced an antagonistic effect. However, combination treatment with As2O3 and BSO resulted in a synergistic cytotoxic effect. Synergy was also obtained in Caki-1, Caki-2, NC65 cells and freshly derived RCC cells from 6 patients. Simultaneous treatment of ACHN cells with As2O3 and BSO caused significantly more cytotoxicity than the As2O3 first BSO second or the reverse treatment. We further explored the mechanisms underlying this synergistic effect and found that the synergistic cytotoxicity of As2O3 and BSO was realized by inducing apoptosis. This combination markedly decreased intracellular GSH content and GSH-S-transferase (GST) activity. However, neither the intracellular GSH nor GST was decreased by As2O3 with adriamycin, vinblastine, or 5-fluorouracil. Furthermore, the GSH-increasing agents N-acetylcysteine and lipoic acid significantly inhibited the combined cytotoxicity of As2O3 and BSO. These findings indicate that BSO sensitizes RCC cells to As2O3-induced apoptosis through the down-regulation of the intracellular GSH redox system, suggesting the potential application of a combination of As2O3 and BSO for the treatment of RCC.

Seasonal distribution of antiphospholipid antibodies

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine if there was a seasonal variation in antiphospholipid antibody (aPL) titers and whether this variation differed between stroke cases and control subjects.

METHODS

IgG and IgM anticardiolipin and antiphosphatidyl serine antibody titers were obtained on serum samples from 884 stroke patients and 1024 control subjects over a 7-year period. Temporal distributions by month of blood draw were evaluated.

RESULTS

Marked seasonal differences in the proportion of positive titers were found for control subjects, but no seasonal variability among patients was noted. In control subjects, positive titers occurred less frequently in the summer months, mirroring the seasonal trends seen in respiratory track infections and rheumatic fever.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest some aPL antibodies arise from different origins in patients and control subjects. The seasonality observed in the apparently normal population may be related to antibodies of infectious origin and is consistent with the reported lack of association with thrombosis of infection-related antibodies.

Activation of caspase-3 in renal cell carcinoma cells by anthracyclines or 5-fluorouracil

The caspase family of proteases is speculated to have a crucial role in apoptosis. The effect of treatment with adriamycin (ADR), cisplatin (CDDP), 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), vinblastine (VLB), IFN-alpha, or IFN-gamma on the activation of caspase-3, -6, -8, and -9 in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cells was investigated, to clarify the mechanisms of chemo- and immunotherapeutic agent-mediated apoptosis. Caspase activity was determined by a quantitative colorimetric assay. Apoptosis was monitored by acridine-orange staining assay. Treatment of ACHN cells with CDDP, VLB, IFN-alpha, or IFN-gamma did not activate caspase-3, but its activity was increased 7.2-fold (p = 0.0001) with ADR and 2.8-fold (p = 0.0385) with 5-FU in comparison with control. Furthermore, when the ADR treatment time was shortened from 24 to 8 or 2 h, the same caspase-3 activation occurred. Activation of caspase-3 was also observed in six freshly isolated human RCC cells after the treatment with ADR. Of the six freshly derived RCC cells treated with 5-FU, caspase-3 activity was increased 3.1-fold (p = 0.0051) and 2.4-fold (p = 0.0346) in two of them, respectively. Epirubicin and pirarubicin, compounds closely related to ADR, also respectively enhanced 4.2-fold (p = 0.0052) and 2.8-fold (p = 0.0147) caspase-3 activity in ACHN cells. The activation of caspase-3 observed with a colorimetric assay was confirmed with immunocytochemical analysis using the anti-active caspase-3 mAb, which specifically recognizes the active form of caspase-3. Furthermore, both active caspase-3 and apoptosis triggered by either ADR or 5-FU were inhibited significantly by the general caspase inhibitor Z-VAD-FMK, or a specific caspase-3 inhibitor DMQD-CHO. These findings provide a mechanistic explanation for anthracyclines and 5-FU induced-apoptosis.

Detection of circulating cancer cells by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction for uroplakin II in peripheral blood of patients with urothelial cancer

Few attempts have been made at the molecular detection of urothelial cancer cells in the blood or lymph nodes mainly because of an absence of good candidate molecular or genetic changes specific to urothelial cancer or urothelium. In 1990, however, genes that encode urothelium-specific transmembrane proteins, uroplakins (UPs), were cloned. We have established a method of detecting circulating cancer cells in peripheral blood of patients with transitional cell carcinoma by nested reverse transcription-PCR assay for UP II. UP II mRNA-positive cells were detected in 3 (10.3%) of 29 patients with superficial cancers (pTa-1N0M0), 4 (28.6%) of 14 patients with muscularly invasive cancers (pT2-4N0M0), 2 (40.0%) of 5 loco-regional node-positive patients (pN1-2M0), and 6 (75.0%) of 8 patients with distant metastases. Positive rates, therefore, increased with tumor extension (P = 0.0033, Kruskal-Wallis test). Furthermore, sequential blood sampling was performed in three patients with metastases during and after systemic chemotherapy, and UP-II-positive cells were found to have disappeared in two patients who responded well to the systemic chemotherapy. These results suggest that our nested reverse transcription-PCR assay for UP II is highly specific and might be used as a tumor marker for molecular staging of urothelial cancers, although the sensitivity is not so optimal.

Telomerase activity in urine after transurethral resection of superficial bladder cancer and early recurrence

BACKGROUND

To explore the relationship between telomerase activity in urine after transurethral resection (TUR) of superficial bladder cancer and early intravesical recurrence.

METHODS

Urine samples were obtained from 42 patients with superficial bladder cancers prior to TUR and on the postoperative day 1 and day 6. These patients were followed-up prospectively by cystoscopy at 3 and 6 months after TUR in combination with urinary cytology and telomerase activity. Telomerase activity in the urine was assessed by the telomeric repeat amplification protocol assay.

RESULTS

Urinary telomerase activity prior to TUR was positive in 24 (57%) of the 42 patients. On the postoperative day 1 and day 6, positive urinary telomerase activity was seen in 13 (31%) and nine (21%) patients, respectively. Postoperative urinary telomerase activity on either day 1 or day 6 was significantly associated with pre-operative urinary telomerase activity status (P = 0.0024). Fifteen patients showed intravesical tumor recurrence at 3 months cystoscopic check-up and an additional nine had recurred at the 6 months check-up. Recurrence rate within 6 months in patients with pre-operative positive urinary telomerase activity was similar to that in those with negative activity (58.3 vs 58.8%). However, recurrence rate at 3 months for patients with positive activity was higher than that of those with negative activity (50 vs 17.7%), in 23 patients treated only by TUR.

CONCLUSIONS

Presence of cells positive for telomerase activity in urine after TUR of superficial bladder cancer indicates persistently existing cancer cells in the urine. It is, however, not a sole predictor of the early intravesical recurrence.

Enhancement of Fas-mediated apoptosis in renal cell carcinoma cells by adriamycin

Anti-Fas monoclonal antibody (mAb) kills Fas-expressing cells by apoptosis. Several anticancer agents also mediate apoptosis and may share common intracellular pathways leading to apoptosis with Fas. Thus, we reasoned that combination treatment of drug-resistant cells with anti-Fas mAb and drugs might overcome their resistance. We investigated whether anticancer agents enhance Fas-mediated apoptosis and cytotoxicity against renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cells. Treatment of ACHN RCC cells with anti-Fas mAb in combination with 5-fluorouracil, vinblastine, IFN-alpha, or IFN-gamma did not overcome resistance to these agents. However, combination treatment with anti-Fas mAb and Adriamycin (ADR) resulted in a synergistic cytotoxic effect. Furthermore, synergy was also obtained even when the exposure time was shortened from 24 h to 8 or 2 h. Synergy was also achieved in four other RCC cell lines and five freshly derived human RCC cells. Treatment with anti-Fas mAb in combination with epirubicin or pirarubicin also resulted in a synergistic cytotoxic effect on ACHN cells. Similar results were achieved with a combination of humanized anti-Fas mAb and ADR. Incubation of ACHN cells with ADR augmented the expression of Fas and p53, but not Bcl-2, Bax, or caspase-3. However, the activity of caspase-3 itself was apparently enhanced after treatment with ADR alone or combined treatment with anti-Fas mAb. The synergy obtained in cytotoxicity with anti-Fas mAb and ADR was also achieved in apoptosis. Exposure of ACHN cells and freshly derived RCC cells to ADR enhanced their susceptibility to lysis by peripheral blood lymphocytes and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. This study demonstrates that combination treatment of RCC cells with anti-Fas mAb and ADR might overcome their resistance. The sensitization required a low concentration of ADR and a short exposure time, thus supporting the potential in vivo application of a combination of ADR and anti-Fas mAb or immunotherapy in the treatment of ADR- and/or immunotherapy-resistant RCC.

Chemoimmunosensitization of the T24 human bladder cancer line to Fas-mediated cytotoxicity and apoptosis by cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil

Previous studies have demonstrated that cisplatin (CDDP) sensitizes bladder cancer cells to Fas-mediated cytotoxicity and that CDDP also enhances the cytotoxic effect of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). These agents mediate apoptosis and may share common intracellular pathways leading to cell killing. We reasoned that combination treatment with CDDP, 5-FU and anti-Fas monoclonal antibody (mAb) might overcome the drug-resistance. We investigated whether CDDP, 5-FU and anti-Fas mAb synergize in cytotoxicity and apoptosis against the T24 bladder cancer line. Cytotoxicity was monitored by a one day microculture tetrazolium dye assay. Treatment of T24 cells with anti-Fas mAb in combination with CDDP or 5-FU resulted in a synergistic cytotoxic effect. In addition, combination treatment of T24 cells with CDDP, 5-FU and anti-Fas mAb further enhanced the synergistic cytotoxicity achieved by two agents. The synergy achieved in cytotoxicity with CDDP, 5-FU and anti-Fas mAb was also achieved in apoptosis. The current study demonstrates that combination treatment of bladder cancer cells with CDDP, 5-FU and anti-Fas mAb overcomes their resistance. In addition, the sensitization required low concentrations of CDDP and 5-FU, and thus supporting the potential in vivo application of combination of CDDP, 5-FU and immunotherapy in the treatment of drug-resistant bladder cancer.

Elevated anticardiolipin antibody titer is a stroke risk factor in a multiethnic population independent of isotype or degree of positivity

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Previous studies have produced conflicting results regarding the putative association between anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL) and infarction in the general stroke population. These inconsistencies may be a function of sample size and methodological differences among the studies. The purpose of the present study, the largest case-control study of this issue to date, was to assess aCL status as an independent risk factor for ischemic stroke in a multiethnic, urban population.

METHODS

We obtained aCL titers in 524 hospitalized acute stroke patients and 1020 community controls enrolled in the Minorities Risk Factors and Stroke Study. The results were interpreted as negative (</=22.9 IgG phospholipid [GPL] or 10.9 IgM phospholipid [MPL] units), low positive (22.9 to 30.0 GPL or 10.9 to 15.0 MPL units), or high positive (>30.0 GPL or 15.0 MPL units). Odds ratios (ORs) were adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, history of diabetes, hypertension, atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, and current cigarette smoking.

RESULTS

A positive aCL titer was present in 11% (111/1020) of controls and 34% (180/524) of cases. The adjusted OR for any positive aCL titer was 4.0 (95% CI, 3.0 to 5.5). For any positive IgG aCL titer this value was 3.9 (95% CI, 2.8 to 5.5), and for any positive IgM aCL titer it was 3.4 (95% CI, 2.1 to 5.5). There were no significant differences in ORs associated with high- or low-positive IgG or IgM aCL titers.

CONCLUSIONS

In the largest study of its kind to date, aCL antibodies were demonstrated to be independent stroke risk factors across the 3 ethnic groups studied, conferring a 4-fold increased risk of ischemic stroke. IgG and for the first time IgM aCL were each shown to be associated with increased stroke risk. The prevalence of these antibodies and the stroke risk associated appear greater than previously reported.