Immobilization of salvianolic acid B-loaded chitosan microspheres distributed three-dimensionally and homogeneously on the porous surface of hydroxyapatite scaffolds

Porous hydroxyapatite (HA) scaffolds combined with a drug delivery system have attracted much attention for bone tissue engineering. In this study, an easy and highly efficient method was developed to immobilize salvianolic acid B (Sal B)-loaded chitosan (CS) microspheres three dimensionally and homogeneously on the surface of HA scaffolds pre-coated with alginate. Porous HA scaffolds were prepared via a template-leaching process and CS microspheres (used as drug carriers) were fabricated by an emulsion method. To improve adhesion between the microspheres and HA scaffolds, alginate was used to pre-coat the porous surface of the HA scaffolds. Various concentrations of alginate were used to optimize the adhesion of Sal B-loaded CS microspheres to the scaffold surface. During the adherence process, coated HA scaffolds were immersed in an aqueous solution containing Sal B-loaded CS microspheres, followed by standing or shaking at 37 °C for a certain time. The results showed that the microspheres were solidly and homogeneously distributed on the porous surface of the alginate pre-coated HA scaffolds via electrostatic interactions. Few microspheres detached from the porous surface, even after the HA scaffolds with microspheres were treated by shaking in distilled water for as long as 7 d. Compared with the static condition, the distribution of Sal B-loaded CS microspheres on the porous surface of pre-coated HA scaffolds in the shaken condition was more homogeneous and almost unaggregated. Additionally, the compressive strength of the scaffolds coated with alginate was obviously improved. The optimal alginate coating concentration was 1% (i.e. the microstructure of the porous surfaces of the HA scaffolds was almost unchanged). The release profile of Sal B over a 30 d immersion found an initial burst release followed by a sustained release. The result of cell culture in vitro was that 1% alginate-coated scaffolds with Sal B-loaded CS microspheres obviously promoted cell proliferation after cell culture for 3 and 7 d, and cells were attached and uniformly distributed on the porous surface of the scaffolds. The strategy of incorporating drug-loaded microspheres with porous HA scaffolds could provide an excellent bone substitute for repair of bone tissue defects.

Ectopic osteogenesis and angiogenesis regulated by porous architecture of hydroxyapatite scaffolds with similar interconnecting structure in vivo

The macro-pore sizes of porous scaffold play a key role for regulating ectopic osteogenesis and angiogenesis but many researches ignored the influence of interconnection between macro-pores with different sizes. In order to accurately reveal the relationship between ectopic osteogenesis and macro-pore sizes in dorsal muscle and abdominal cavities of dogs, hydroxyapatite (HA) scaffolds with three different macro-pore sizes of 500–650, 750–900 and 1100–1250 µm were prepared via sugar spheres-leaching process, which also had similar interconnecting structure determined by keeping the d/s ratio of interconnecting window diameter to macro-pore size constant. The permeability test showed that the seepage flow of fluid through the porous scaffolds increased with the increase of macro-pore sizes. The cell growth in three scaffolds was not affected by the macro-pore sizes. The in vivo ectopic implantation results indicated that the macro-pore sizes of HA scaffolds with the similar interconnecting structure have impact not only the speed of osteogenesis and angiogenesis but also the space distribution of newly formed bone. The scaffold with macro-pore sizes of 750–900 µm exhibited much faster angiogenesis and osteogenesis, and much more uniformly distribution of new bone than those with other macro-pore sizes. This work illustrates the importance of a suitable macro-pore sizes in HA scaffolds with the similar interconnecting structure which provides the environment for ectopic osteogenesis and angiogenesis.

Gastrointestinal tract development in fattening lambs fed diets with different amylose to amylopectin ratios

Thirty-six, 7-d-old male lambs of similar weights were used in the current study to examine the effects of dietary amylose to amylopectin ratios (amylose/amylopectin) on gastrointestinal development in fattening lambs fed concentrates with different sources of starch (tapioca, wheat, maize, and pea) and amylose/amylopectin (0.12, 0.23, 0.24, and 0.48, respectively). The maize starch (MS) and wheat starch (WS) diets improved weight and volume of gastrointestinal. The pea starch diet significantly increased papillar height (P < 0.001), papillar surface area (P = 0.019), and density of papillae (P = 0.001) in the rumen. Additionally, the pea starch diet significantly enhanced villus height, crypt depth, and villus surface area and villus/crypt ratio (P < 0.05) in small intestine. Expressions of insulin-like growth factors I (IGF-1) and insulin-like growth factors’ receptors (IGF-1R) significantly increased in the duodenum mucosa (P = 0.021, P = 0.006, respectively), jejunum mucosa (P = 0.002, P = 0.005, respectively), and ileum mucosa (P = 0.003, P < 0.01, respectively) in the pea starch diet group. The results of the present study show that MS and WS accelerated physical development of rumen and intestine compartments, whereas pea starch increased development of their some morphological parameters, possibly through enhanced expression of genes such as IGF-1 and IGF-1R in fattening lambs.

Genetic correlations between female fertility and postweaning growth and feed efficiency traits in multibreed beef cattle

With selection in beef cattle now incorporating feed efficiency, knowing the relationship with other traits is needed. Genetic relationships were estimated with an animal model in ASReml with a three-generation pedigree inclusive of 2882 animals. Multibreed data from two Ontario beef research farms with fertility traits were available on 1366 females and postweaning traits, including feed efficiency on 1297 individuals. Estimates of heritability for fertility traits were low to moderate ranging from 0.03 ± 0.01 for pregnancy rate to 0.21 ± 0.02 for gestation length, and postweaning traits were moderate to high with feed conversion ratio at 0.22 ± 0.06 to mid-metabolic weight at 0.89 ± 0.01. Both dry matter intake and mid-metabolic weight were genetically correlated with most fertility traits from −0.52 to 0.34. The genetic correlation between average daily gain and days to calving was moderately negative (–0.33 ± 0.16) as was residual feed intake with days to calving (–0.34 ± 0.17). Bigger cows with more feed intake and faster growth were more fertile, and residual feed intake had an unfavorable genetic correlation with days to calving, indicating that programs to select for feed efficiency should include fertility simultaneously in a selection index.

Efficacy and safety of liraglutide versus sitagliptin, both in combination with metformin, in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes: a 26-week, open-label, randomized, active comparator clinical trial

AIMS

To compare the efficacy and safety of liraglutide versus sitagliptin as add-on to metformin after 26 weeks of treatment in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

This 26-week open-label, active comparator trial (NCT02008682) randomized patients (aged 18-80 years) with T2DM inadequately controlled with metformin [glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) 7.0-10.0% (53-86 mmol/mol)] 1 : 1 to once-daily subcutaneously administered liraglutide 1.8 mg (n = 184) or once-daily oral sitagliptin 100 mg (n = 184), both as add-on to metformin. The primary endpoint was change in HbA1c from baseline to week 26.

RESULTS

Liraglutide was superior to sitagliptin in reducing HbA1c from baseline [8.1% (65 mmol/mol)] to 26 weeks, as evidenced by estimated mean HbA1c change of -1.65% (-18.07 mmol/mol) versus -0.98% (-10.72 mmol/mol), respectively [estimated treatment difference for liraglutide vs sitagliptin of -0.67% (95% CI -0.86, -0.48) or -7.35 mmol/mol (95% CI -9.43; -5.26); p < 0.0001]. More patients receiving liraglutide (76.5%) than sitagliptin (52.6%) achieved the HbA1c target of <7.0% (53 mmol/mol) at week 26 [odds ratio 3.65 (95% CI 2.18, 6.12); p < 0.0001]. Reductions in fasting plasma glucose, 7-point self-measured plasma glucose and body weight were greater with liraglutide than with sitagliptin (p < 0.0001 for all). More patients experienced nausea (14.8% vs 0.5%), diarrhoea (8.2% vs 2.2%) and decreased appetite (10.9% vs 0.5%) with liraglutide than sitagliptin. Two hypoglycaemic episodes were confirmed for liraglutide and one for sitagliptin; none were severe or nocturnal.

CONCLUSIONS

Liraglutide provided better glycaemic control and greater body weight reduction than sitagliptin when administered as add-on to metformin. More patients had nausea, diarrhoea and decreased appetite with liraglutide versus sitagliptin.

From fighting depression to conquering tumors: a novel tricyclic thiazepine compound as a tubulin polymerization inhibitor

A novel tricyclic thiazepine derivative, 6-(p-tolyl)benzo[f] pyrido[2,3-b][1,4] thiazepine 11,11-dioxide (TBPT), exhibits potent inhibitory effects in two non-small-cell lung cancer cell lines, H460 and its drug-resistant variant, H460_TaxR, while exhibiting much less toxic effects on normal human fibroblasts. After five injections of TBPT at a dose of 60 mg/kg, it inhibits H460_TaxR tumor growth in xenografted mouse models by 66.7% without causing observable toxicity to normal tissues. Based on gene perturbation data and a series of investigations, we reveal that TBPT is not a P-glycoprotein substrate and it inhibits microtubule formation by targeting tubulin, thereby causing cell cycle arrest at the G2/M stage and eventually inducing apoptosis. This redeployment of anti-depressant compound scaffold for anticancer applications provides a promising future for conquering drug-resistant tumors with fewer side effects.

G protein-coupled estrogen receptor is involved in modulating colonic motor function via nitric oxide release in C57BL/6 female mice

BACKGROUND

Estrogen may regulate gastrointestinal motor functions, but the mechanism(s) is not totally understood. Here, we investigated whether G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER/GPR30) was involved in regulating colonic motor functions and explored the underlying physiological mechanisms.

METHODS

Adult female C57BL/6 mice were used. The expression and localization of GPER were examined by RT-PCR, western blot, and immuno-labeling. The role of GPER in modulating colonic motor functions was assessed by the bead propulsion test in vivo and organ bath experiments in vitro.

KEY RESULTS

GPER was expressed in colonic myenteric neurons. The colonic transit time (CTT) in proestrus and estrus was significantly longer than that in diestrus. In vivo treatment with the selective GPER blocker G15 significantly shortened CTT in proestrus and estrus. In ovariectomized mice, acute estrogen supplementation increased CTT, which could be abolished by G15 co-administration. The GPER agonist G-1 caused a concentration-dependent inhibition of carbachol -induced circular muscle strips contraction, which was abolished by tetrodotoxin and the neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) inhibitor N-propyl-l-arginine. G-1 stimulated NO production in isolated longitudinal muscle myenteric plexus and cultured myenteric neurons, which was dependent on nNOS. Immunofluorescence labeling showed co-localization of GPER with nNOS in the myenteric plexus.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

We suggest that activation of GPER exerts an inhibitory effect on colonic motility by promoting NO release from myenteric nitrergic nerves. These results raise a possibility that GPER may be involved in mediating the inhibitory effect of estrogen on colonic motor functions, via a non-genomic, neurogenic mechanism.

Comparison of efficacy of different embolic agents on uterine leiomyoma

The aim of this study was to explore the efficacies, postoperative side effects, and complications of uterine artery embolization (UAE) treatments for uterine leiomyoma (UL) with different embolic agents. The study included 107 patients with UL that were treated with UAE with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA group) or pingyangmycin lipiodol emulsion and silk-segment (PLES group). Six months later, the improvement rate of anaemia, the menstrual improvement rate, the incidence rate of fever, the disappearance rates of compression symptoms and abdominal symptoms in the PVA group were 93.8%, 94.7%, 22.0%, 60.0%, and 88.9%, respectively, which showed no significant difference from those in the PLES group (90.5%, 92.3%, 84.8%, 53.3%, and 8 1.3%, respectively). The incidence rate of fever after embolization in PVA group was significantly lower than that in PLES group (c² = 41.958, p = 0.000). However, the efficacy, improvement rate of symptoms, and postoperative side effects of two groups showed no significant difference (p > 0.05). PVA and PLES have significant efficacy for UAE treatment on patients with UL.

Sleep duration and snoring associate with hypertension and glycaemic control in patients with diabetes

AIMS

Few studies have analysed the effect of sleep duration and snoring on hypertension and glycaemic control in patients with diabetes. This study aims to investigate the relationship of sleep duration and snoring on prevalent hypertension and glycaemic control in people with diabetes.

METHODS

In the baseline survey of the REACTION study, 56 032 patients with diabetes were categorized into four groups according to self-reported sleep duration: < 6, 6-7.9, 8-8.9 and ≥ 9 h. Snoring frequency was evaluated as 'usually', 'occasionally' or 'never'. Hypertension was assessed by systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, self-reported previous diagnosis and antihypertensive medications. 'Good' glycaemic control was defined as HbA1c < 53 mmol/mol (7.0%) and 'poor' glycaemic control as HbA1c ≥ 53 mmol/mol (7.0%).

RESULTS

Controlling for potential confounders and intermediates, sleep ≥ 9 h relative to intermediate sleep (6-7.9 h) was significantly associated with prevalent hypertension (OR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.18-1.32) and poor glycaemic control (OR: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.05-1.18), and a U-shaped association was found between sleep duration and prevalent hypertension (P for quadratic trend = 0.019). Usually snoring was positively associated with prevalent hypertension (OR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.23-1.37), whereas the association between snoring and poor glycaemic control was only on the borderline of statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with a sleep duration of 6-7.9 h, longer sleep duration was associated with a higher prevalence of hypertension and poor glycaemic control in people with diabetes. Moreover, the relationship between sleep duration and prevalent hypertension was U-shaped. These findings may propose important public health implications for diabetes management.

12 cases of primary thyroid lymphoma in China

INTRODUCTION

Primary thyroid lymphoma (PTL) is a rare malignant disease, which can be life threatening because of airway obstruction due to a suddenly and rapidly growing mass. Prompt and accurate detection and diagnosis in the early phase of PTL are crucial for the treatment of this disease. However, due to lack of standardized diagnostic procedures and methods, PTL can be easily missed or misdiagnosed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, we retrospectively reviewed 12 thyroid lymphomas cases to determine the typical clinical and sonographic profiles of thyroid lymphomas.

RESULTS

All the patients showed symptoms of rapidly developing neck swelling or mass sensation when they underwent diagnostic procedures. We found that, in sonography, 3 of the 12 patients (25.0 %) showed diffuse heterogeneous hypoechoic parenchyma with intervening echogenic septa-like structures, 8 (66.7 %) showed markedly hypoechoic masses, and 1 (8.3 %) showed a mixed pattern. Histological analysis of the lymphomas using paraffin-embedded sections revealed that all the 12 lymphomas were non-Hodgkin lymphoma with a B cell origin: extranodal marginal zone B cell lymphomas of the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma type in 3 (MALT, 25.0 %), and diffuse large B cell lymphomas in 9 (75.0 %) lymphomas. All the MALT patients had diffuse heterogeneous hypoechoic parenchyma in sonography, but only one of them with diffuse large B cell lymphomas had diffuse heterogeneous hypoechoic parenchyma in sonography. Complete remission was achieved in all patients when they were given CHOP or COP therapy accompanied by local radiotherapy after accurate diagnosis of PTL.

CONCLUSION

We analyzed clinical, sonographic and histological features of twelve cases of malignant lymphoma arising in the thyroid gland and proposed a systematic strategy for prompt and accurate diagnosis of PTL.

Prevalence of restless legs syndrome and sleep quality in carriers of the fragile X premutation

This study examined the relationship between the fragile X premutation and restless legs syndrome (RLS). Demographic, medical history and survey responses related to sleep were collected from 213 participants (127 carriers and 86 age matched controls). Subjects were asked about the presence of the four formal diagnostic criteria for RLS. Individuals with the premutation were 1.9 times as likely to meet criteria for RLS (95% CI 1.1–3.2, p=0.025) as controls. Premutation carriers with RLS also experienced significantly worse symptoms than matched controls with adjusted mean scores of 15.1±8.8 vs 7.9±4.4, respectively on the International Restless Legs Scale (IRLS). As markers for domains of sleep disturbance, all subjects completed the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), the Insomnia Severity Index (ISA) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Premutation carriers demonstrated significantly more pathology on these tests except for the ESS where there was a trend towards increased daytime sleepiness in carriers. RLS joins a host of other conditions that should be carefully screened for in those carrying the fragile X premutation and sleep should be a focus for clinicians providing care to them.

Effective inhibition of melanoma tumorigenesis and growth via a new complex vaccine based on NY-ESO-1-alum-polysaccharide-HH2

Background

A safe and effective adjuvant plays an important role in the development of a vaccine. However, adjuvants licensed for administration in humans remain limited. Here, for the first time, we developed a novel combination adjuvant alum-polysaccharide-HH2 (APH) with potent immunomodulating activities, consisting of alum, polysaccharide of Escherichia coli and the synthetic cationic innate defense regulator peptide HH2.

Methods

The adjuvant effects of APH were examined using NY-ESO-1 protein-based vaccines in prophylactic and therapeutic models. We further determined the immunogenicity and anti-tumor effect of NY-ESO-1-APH (NAPH) vaccine using adoptive cellular/serum therapy in C57/B6 and nude mice. Cell-mediated and antibody-mediated immune responses were evaluated.

Results

The APH complex significantly promoted antigen uptake, maturation and cross-presentation of dendritic cells and enhanced the secretion of TNF-α, MCP-1 and IFN-γ by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells compared with individual components. Vaccination of NAPH resulted in significant tumor regression or delayed tumor progression in prophylactic and therapeutic models. In addition, passive serum/cellular therapy potently inhibited tumor growth of NY-ESO-1-B16. Mice treated with NAPH vaccine produced higher antibody titers and greater antibody-dependent/independent cellular cytotoxicity. Therefore, NAPH vaccination effectively stimulated innate immunity, and boosted both arms of the adaptive humoral and cellular immune responses to suppress tumorigenesis and growth of melanoma.

Conclusions

Our study revealed the potential application of APH complex as a novel immunomodulatory agent for vaccines against tumor refractory and growth.

Two new four-connected zeolite-like magnesium aluminophosphates with intersecting 8-ring channels

JU94 and JU95 are synthesized in the same reaction system, but exhibit different zeolite-like frameworks containing 2D 8-ring channels.

Oxalate degradation in a bioelectrochemical system: reactor performance and microbial community characterization

The aim of this work was to investigate the feasibility of using oxalate at the anode in a continuous reactor. Complete oxalate removal was observed, albeit at a maximum coulombic efficiency of 33.9±0.4%. At the cathode side, there was an increase in pH from 8 to 11 showing production of caustic. Analysis of the microbial community demonstrated a clear shift during reactor start-up, resulting in enrichment of microorganisms belonging to Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Mollicutes, and β and γ-Proteobacteria. Methane was produced throughout the experiment; Archaea belonging to the Methanosarcinacea, Methanomicrobiaceae and Methanosaetaceae were identified as key representatives.

Identification of LRP16 as a negative regulator of insulin action and adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

Leukemia related protein 16 (LRP16) was first cloned from acute myeloid leukemia cells in our laboratory. In the present study, we sought to investigate the role of LRP16 in insulin action and sensitivity, using LRP16-depleted and -overexpressing 3T3-L1 cells. LRP16 silencing resulted in a reduction of the expression and secretion of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and a concomitant increase in the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-γ). Moreover, LRP16 depletion promoted insulin-induced glucose uptake and adipocyte differentiation of 3T3-L1 cells. In contrast, LRP16 overexpression increased TNF-α secretion, suppressed glucose uptake, and attenuated 3T3-L1 cell differentiation. The phosphorylation levels of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1), phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase (PI3-K), and Akt were increased in LRP16-deficient 3T3-L1 cells, and conversely, diminished in LRP16-overexpressing 3T3-L1 cells, when compared to the corresponding control cells. Additionally, LRP16 overexpression raised the phosphorylation level of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). The pretreatment with rapamycin, a specific inhibitor of mTOR, prevented the TNF-α elevation and PPAR-γ reduction and restored the phosphorylation of IRS-1, PI3-K, and Akt in LRP16-overexpressing cells. Our data collectively indicate that LRP16 acts as a negative regulator of insulin action and adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, which involves the activation of the mTOR signaling pathway.

Phenotype characterization and sequence analysis of BMP2 and BMP4 variants in two Mexican families with oligodontia

Both BMP2 and BMP4 are involved in tooth development. We examined phenotypes and BMP2 and BMP4 gene variations in two Mexican oligodontia families. Physical and oral examinations and panoramic radiographs were performed on affected and unaffected members in these two families. The affected members lacked six or more teeth. DNA sequencing was performed to detect BMP2 and BMP4 gene variations. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in BMP2 and BMP4 genes were identified in the two families, including one synonymous and two missense SNPs: BMP2 c261A>G, pS87S, BMP2 c570A>T, pR190S, and BMP4 c455T>C, pV152A. Among the six affected patients, 67% carried "GG" or "AG" genotype in BMP2 c261A>G and four were "TT" or "AT" genotype in BMP2 c570A>T (pR190S). Polymorphism of BMP4 c455T>C resulted in amino acid changes of Val/Ala (pV152A). BMP2 c261A>G and BMP4 c455T>C affect mRNA stability. This was the first time that BMP2 and BMP4 SNPs were observed in Mexican oligodontia families.

The Adipose Tissue Endocrine Mechanism of the Prophylactic Protective Effect of Pioglitazone in High-Fat Diet-Induced Insulin Resistance

OBJECTIVE: To explore the adipose tissue endocrine mechanism of pioglitazone and its possible prophylactic role in insulin resistance. METHODS: Male Wistar rats were randomized to receive a normal diet (N group), a high-fat insulin resistance-inducing diet (IR group), or a high-fat diet plus treatment with pioglitazone (P group). Glucose tolerance and insulin resistance were tested at weeks 10 and 11 after starting the diet and, at week 12, adipose, liver and skeletal muscle tissue samples were taken. HepG2 cells were cultured with palmitic acid (PA), pioglitazone and PA plus pioglitazone, and RNA interference was used to downregulate adiponectin receptor (AdipoR) 2 in these cells. The mRNA and protein levels of adipokines (resistin and adiponectin), AdipoR1 and 2 and uptake of [3H]-labelled glucose were measured in the HepG2 cells. RESULTS: Resistin and adiponectin in adipose tissue and AdipoR2 in liver tissue were significantly decreased in the IR group compared with the N group. Adiponectin and AdipoR2 were significantly increased and insulin resistance significantly decreased in the P group versus the IR group. In HepG2 cells, AdipoR2 levels and glucose uptake decreased significantly when PA was ≥ 200 μM, but were elevated by pioglitazone. Small interfering RNA-AdipoR2 confirmed glucose uptake in liver was regulated by AdipoR2. CONCLUSIONS: Pioglitazone prevented insulin resistance in rats fed a high-fat diet. Liver AdipoR2-mediated glucose uptake is important in the prophylactic effect of pioglitazone on insulin resistance.

'Green'-synthesized near-infrared PbS quantum dots with silica-PEG dual-layer coating: ultrastable and biocompatible optical probes for in vivo animal imaging

In this paper, PbS semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) with near-infrared (NIR) photoluminescence were synthesized in oleic acid and paraffin liquid mixture by using an easily handled and 'green' approach. Surface functionalization of the QDs was accomplished with a silica and polyethylene glycol (PEG) phospholipid dual-layer coating and the excellent chemical stability of the nanoparticles is demonstrated. We then successfully applied the ultrastable PbS QDs to in vivo sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping of mice. Histological analyses were also carried out to ensure that the intravenously injected nanoparticles did not produce any toxicity to the organism of mice. These experimental results suggested that our ultrastable NIR PbS QDs can serve as biocompatible and efficient probes for in vivo optical bioimaging and has great potentials for disease diagnosis and clinical therapies in the future.

Altered mTOR signaling and enhanced CYFIP2 expression levels in subjects with fragile X syndrome

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common form of inherited intellectual disability and autism. The protein (FMRP) encoded by the fragile X mental retardation gene (FMR1), is an RNA-binding protein linked to translational control. Recently, in the Fmr1 knockout mouse model of FXS, dysregulated translation initiation signaling was observed. To investigate whether an altered signaling was also a feature of subjects with FXS compared to typical developing controls, we isolated total RNA and translational control proteins from lymphocytes of subjects from both groups (38 FXS and 14 TD). Although we did not observe any difference in the expression level of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) for translational initiation control proteins isolated from participant with FXS, we found increased phosphorylation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) substrate, p70 ribosomal subunit 6 kinase1 (S6K1) and of the mTOR regulator, the serine/threonine protein kinase (Akt), in their protein lysates. In addition, we observed increased phosphorylation of the cap binding protein eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) suggesting that protein synthesis is upregulated in FXS. Similar to the findings in lymphocytes, we observed increased phosphorylation of S6K1 in brain tissue from patients with FXS (n = 4) compared to normal age-matched controls (n = 4). Finally, we detected increased expression of the cytoplasmic FMR1-interacting protein 2 (CYFIP2), a known FMRP interactor. This data verify and extend previous findings using lymphocytes for studies of neuropsychiatric disorders and provide evidence that misregulation of mTOR signaling observed in the FXS mouse model also occurs in human FXS and may provide useful biomarkers for designing targeted treatments in FXS.

O45-regulation of osteoblast differentiation and ECM remodeling by Bmp2/4 in vitro

Both of bone morphogenetic proteins 2 and 4 (Bmp2 and Bmp4) are two closely related members of the transforming growth factor beta superfamily and play diverse roles in normal and pathological processes. However, detail understandings of mechanisms through which Bmp2 and Bmp4 exert their effects remain elusive due to their functional compensations each other. To study roles of Bmp2/Bmp4 in osteoblast differentiation and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, calvarial osteoblasts from Bmp2/4 conditional mice with Cre recombinase recognition site (loxP) were isolated and transfected with simian virus 40 large T antigen to generate immortalized BMP2C/C4C/C (iBMP2 C/C/4C/C) osteoblast lines. The BMP2/4 genes in the iBMP2 C/C/4C/C cells were double knocked out by Ad-Cre recombinase infection. Differentiation and mineralization of iBMP2C/C/4C/C knock-out (iBmp2C/C/4C/C KO) cells were detected by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and alizarin (ALZ) red S staining analyses. ECM remodeling was also observed in fluorescent microscope. Cell differentiation was dramatically decreased in the iBMP2C/C/4C/C KO cells compared to that of the iBMP2C/C/4C/C osteoblasts. Mineralization was also reduced in these KO cells by ALZ staining. Furthermore, Bmp2/4 double knock-out cells have major defects in remodeling the ECM as reflected by changes in collagen type I processing. Here we for the first time demonstrate the establishment of iBmp2C/C/4C/C KO osteoblasts. Cell differentiation and mineralization in the iBmp2C/C/4C/C KO cells were decreased. Furthermore, ECM processing in these KO cells was impaired. This indicates that BMP2/4 play important roles in osteoblast differentiation and ECM remodeling.

Structural features of the 5’ flanking region of the Yak (Bos grunniens) growth hormone receptor (GHR) gene (Brief Report)

Abstract. Yak (Bos grunniens) is a species of the Bovidae family living on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau and its adjacent territories at altitudes from 2 000–5 000 m (LUO et al. 2005, MA et al. 2009). As a multi-purpose domestic animal, yaks are indispensable to the local animal husbandry development because it can provide life necessities such as meat, milk, fur, velour manufacturing, transportation and manure for fuel to the local herdsmen. There are twelve yak populations numbered around 13.3 million in China and the Bazhou yak is one of Chinese yak populations (WIENER et al. 2003). The Growth Hormone Receptor (GHR) gene was identified as a candidate gene affecting key quantitative traits, like growth, milk yield and composition in livestock. At present, only investigations were carried out on the genetic variation in Exon-8, Intron-8 and Exon-10 of the yak GHR gene (VARVIO et al. 2008), no other information on the yak GHR gene is available. The purposes of this study were to – analyze the structural features of the 5’ flanking region of the yak GHR gene – compare the 5’ flanking region of yak GHR gene with that of other species of the Bovidae family and – construct the phylogenetic tree to indicate the evolutionary relationship among them.

Clinical involvement in daughters of men with fragile X-associated tremor ataxia syndrome

Women with the fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) premutation often have concerns about neurological and medical problems, as they become older and if their fathers experience fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS). We therefore determined the prevalence of these problems in 110 daughters of men with FXTAS [mean age of 44.8 years (SD 8.2)]. We compared them with 43 female controls with normal FMR1 alleles [mean age of 43.8 years (SD 8.1)] and 36 premutation carrier daughters of parents with the premutation, but without FXTAS [mean age of 43.5 years (SD 7.7)]. Overall, daughters of men with FXTAS have a higher prevalence of neurological symptoms including tremor, balance problems, memory problems, and dizziness, menopausal symptoms, and psychiatric involvement including sleep problems and anxiety when compared with non-carrier female controls. Reported balance problems and menopausal symptoms were significantly higher in daughters of men with FXTAS than in carrier daughters of parents without FXTAS, suggesting the potential influence of background gene effects. Therefore, neurological, psychological and gynecological surveillance should be warranted to better provide appropriate counseling, management and care for daughters of men with FXTAS. Biological markers of additional gene effects that predispose individuals with the premutation to FXTAS need to be developed.

Practical guidance on intensification of insulin therapy with BIAsp 30: a consensus statement

BACKGROUND

Basal insulin and premix insulin are commonly prescribed first-line insulin therapies for patients failing to maintain glycaemic control on oral therapy. When control on these insulins starts to drift, premix analogues, such as biphasic insulin aspart 30/70 (BIAsp 30), are a simple and effective tool for intensification as they can be injected up to three-times daily (TID). However, at present, international recommendations for intensification of insulin therapy using premix analogues are limited and specific guidance on dosing is not available for many scenarios.

METHODS

In October 2008, an international expert panel met to review the current guidelines for insulin intensification with BIAsp 30 in patients with type 2 diabetes, with the aim of developing practical guidance for general and specialist practitioners.

RESULTS

Simple treatment algorithms have been developed for (i) patients on basal insulin (human or analogue) once daily or twice daily (BID) who need intensification to BIAsp 30 BID, and (ii) patients on BIAsp 30 once daily or BID who can be intensified to BIAsp 30 BID or TID. As well as these algorithms, specific guidance has been provided on dose transfer (from basal insulin to BIAsp 30), dose split (when intensifying from once daily to BID), and combination oral therapies. In addition, a guide to dose titration is included.

CONCLUSIONS

The guidelines presented here should enable general or specialist practitioners to use BIAsp 30 to intensify the insulin therapy of patients failing on basal insulin or BIAsp 30 once or twice daily.

Filterscopes: spectral line monitors for long-pulse plasma devices

A photomultiplier (PMT)-based diagnostic system for monitoring spectral lines along multiple viewchords, named the "Filterscope" [R. J. Colchin et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 74, 2068 (2003)], is currently in use at the DIII-D, NSTX, and CDX-U fusion plasma devices in the US, and has been installed at the KSTAR device in Korea. This diagnostic has recently been upgraded for application to long-pulse devices, such as KSTAR, EAST in China, and the future ITER in France. A new data acquisition system, employing the PXI instrumentation platform with an embedded Windows microprocessor controller, can simultaneously record up to 72 channels at 100 kHz sampling rates for plasma periods lasting up to 20 min. Based on the average signal level during an adjustable time interval (100 ms in the present DIII-D implementation), the controller digitally adjusts PMT dynode voltage throughout the course of a discharge, thereby maintaining the output signals at a level where they are neither saturated nor dominated by digitizer noise. The new system's ability to accommodate large variations in source strength, discharge to discharge and within a single discharge, has proved particularly valuable during DIII-D operations, since changes between top, bottom, and double-null divertor magnetic configurations lead to large temporal variations in signal brightness.

[The 3D finite element analysis of stress distributions in abutment and periodontal tissues with extra-coronal attachment]

A 3D finite element model of bilateral distal-extension edentulous dentition, which includes mandible, incisors, canines and premolars, was established in the first place. Based on it, another model with extra-coronal attachments and dentures was also developed. Moreover, contact elements were applied to the regions between the denture and alveolar bone. The von Mises stress distributions of the abutments and their periodontal tissues, edentulous alveolar bone in the two models were compared. The results indicate that the stresses in the abutments and the alveolar sockets obviously increase at the buccal and lingual sides after reparation, and that the stresses on the edentulous alveolar bone also increase.

[Three-dimensional finite element stress analysis of mandibular unilateral distal-extension with extra-coronal precision attachment]

From alveolar bone and the complete dentition CT images, a three-dimensionalysis of nonlinear finite element model of mandibular unilateral distal-extension with extracoronal precision attachment was established. The contact elements were used between the denture and alveolar bone. The result shows that, the stress in the second premolar and periodontal tissue decreased obviously as the second abutment was added. However, the stress difference was unapparent as the third abutment was added. Considering various facts, the attachment with two abutments was suggested to be used. With the decrease of the periodontal tissue, the stress in the periodontal tissue increased, however the stress in the tooth changed slightly. Thestress in the periodontal tissue decreased effectively when the third abutment was added, as the tooth root was absorbed by 50%. In this situation, the extracoronal precision attachment can also be used.

Identification of estrogenically synthesized LRP16 as an ERα coactivator and its role in ERα-positive breast cancer

10676

Background: Aberrant ERα activity is linked to genesis and malignant progression of breast cancer through direct target gene activation or repression. A complex network of coregulatory proteins is largely believed to determine the transcriptional activity of ERα. LRP16 was identified previously to be an estrogen (E2) responsive gene, but its function involving in conferring estrogen signalling pathway is not clear. Methods: Endogenous LRP16 expression in MCF-7 cells was stably suppressed by retrovirus-mediated small interference RNA (siRNA). The effects of LRP16 expression on E2-stimulated growth and invasive ability of MCF-7 cells were determined in vitro and in vivo assays. The effects of LRP16 expression on ERα transactivation were determined by luciferase assays. The interaction of LRP16 and ERα was examined by GST pull-down and coimmunopricipitation (CoIP) assays. Northern blot and Western blot were used to detect the mRNA and protein levels of ER target genes in LRP16-inhibited MCF-7 cells. The LRP16 expression levels in primary breast cancer were detected by Northern blot. Results: Fristly, LRP16 expression was characterized to be dependent on estrogen activities. Then, LRP16 was identified to be an estrogen-independent ERα cofactor in ER-positive breast cancer cells and demonstrate that LRP16 is an essential coactivator to ERα-mediated transactivation in an estrogen-dependent manner. Suppression of LRP16 expression in ER-positive breast cancer cells specifically inhibits the transcription of ER upregulated genes, results in the increase of E-cadherin expression through ER mediation. In vitro and in vivo data demonstrate that suppression of LRP16 inhibits the ability of estrogen-stimulated proliferation and invasiveness of ER-positive breast cancer cells. The pathological and clinical characteristics of human breast cancer includining ER/PR-positiveness, tumor diameter and the involvement of axillary lymphoid nodes were tightly linked with the LRP16 gene expression level. Conclusions: These results establish a mechanistic link between estrogen receptor status, its coactivator LRP16, and progression of ER-positive breast cancers, and may provide a novel antiestrogenic target for the therapy of ER positive breast cancer.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Development of a recombinant indirect ELISA for the diagnosis of Theileria sp. (China) infection in small ruminants

Theileria sp. (China) causes severe limitations on the development of the livestock industry in the north-west of China. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) based on merozoite homogenate of the parasite for diagnosis of infection has been established; however, cross-reactivity with other small ruminant-infecting piroplasms could not be excluded. Thus, a prerequisite for epidemiological surveys and diagnosis was the establishment of a recombinant protein-based ELISA. To this end, serum from Theileria sp. (China)-infected sheep was used to screen a Theileria lestoquardi expression library, resulting in the identification of a specifically reacting clone with a high identity to the heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) of Theileria parva and Theileria annulata and thus named TlHSP70. An HSP70 homologue was also confirmed to be expressed by Theileria sp. (China) merozoites (TcHSP70). A part of the TlHSP70 protein, found to be conserved in TcHSP70, was recombinantly expressed and used to establish an ELISA. A total of 260 field serum samples tested resulted in a sensitivity and specificity of 94.3 and 89.5%, respectively, in comparison with the merozoite homogenate ELISA. The potentials of the application of the test in epidemiological surveys to map out the prevalence of the disease and for routine diagnostics are described.