Effects of sophorolipids on fungal and oomycete pathogens in relation to pH solubility

AIMS

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of sophorolipids on several fungal and oomycete plant pathogens and the relationship between sophorolipids at different pH and antimicrobial activities.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Sophorolipids had different solubility at different pH with a dramatic increase in solubility when pH was 6 or higher. Inhibition of mycelial growth of Phytophthora infestans by sophorolipids was affected by pH values, showing that when the pH value was higher, the inhibition rate was lower. Sophorolipids inhibited spore germination and mycelial growth of several fungal and oomycete pathogens in vitro including Fusarium sp., F. oxysporum, F. concentricum, Pythium ultimum, Pyricularia oryzae, Rhizoctorzia solani, Alternaria kikuchiana, Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici and P. infestans and caused morphological changes in hyphae by microscope observation. Sophorolipids reduced β-1,3-glucanase activity in mycelia of P. infestans. In greenhouse studies, foliar application of sophorolipids at 3 mg ml^-1 reduced severity of late blight of potato caused by P. infestans significantly.

CONCLUSION

Sophorolipids influenced spore germination and hyphal tip growth of several plant pathogens and pH solubility of sophorolipids had an effect on their efficacy. Application of sophorolipids reduced late blight disease on potato under greenhouse conditions.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The findings indicated that sophorolipids have the potential to be developed as a convenient and easy-to-use formulation for managing plant diseases.

[Determination of arsenic species compound in blood by high performance liquid chromatographyatomic fluorescence spectrometry]

Objective: To establish a method for determination of arsenic species in blood with high performance liquid chromatography-atomic fluorescence spectrometry (HPLC-AFS) . Methods: The effect of mobile phase about chromatography separation and sample pretreatment conditions and atomic fluorescence spectrometry detection parameters has been optimized to reliably measure the following four kinds of species arsenic compound including arsenic[As (III) ]、dimethylarsinic acid (DMA) 、monomethylarsonic acid (MMA) and arsenate[As (V) ] in acute intoxication human blood. The method of technical standard about within-run, between-run and recoveries of standard were optimized. Results: The method showed As (III) linear relationship was 2.63-100.00 μg/L, The detection limit was 2.63 μg/L. The relative coefficient (r) was 0.9999; DMA linear relationship was 3.21-100.00 μg/L, The detection limit was 3.21 μg/L. The r was 0.9992; MMA linear relationship was 3.41-100.00 μg/L, The detection limit was 3.41 μg/L. The r was 0.9998; As (V) linear relationship was 3.90-100.00 μg/L, The detection limit was 3.90 μg/L. The r was 0.9996. The average recovery of four species arsenic in tested samples ranged from 91.3%-99.8% with the relative standard deviation (RSD) from 2.39% to 4.05%. The within-run and between-run relative standard deviations (RSD) of repetitive measurement at 10.00, 40.00, 80.00 μg/L concentration levels were 1.99%-4.59% and 2.72%-4.53%. Conclusion: This method is low detection limit, good accurate and high sensitivity, proposed method had been applied to the analysis of arsenic species in blood samples those who acute intoxication or poisoning diagnosis.

A meta-analysis of influence of MSMB promoter rs10993994 polymorphisms on prostate cancer risk

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the association between beta-microseminoprotein gene (MSMB) rs10993994 polymorphism and prostate cancer (PCa) risk.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Relevant databases were searched to identify studies investigating the association between rs10993994 polymorphisms and the risk of PCa using allele contrast, recessive, dominant, and additive models. The assessment of the association was used by odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) was checked for each study. The sensitivity analysis and the assessment of publication bias were also performed.

RESULTS

Six reports involving 13 eligible studies (a total of 11,385 PCa patients and 9,115 controls) were included in the meta-analysis. Our data revealed that the T allele of MSMB rs10993994 polymorphism was significantly associated with PCa in all subjects (allele contrast: OR=1.24, 95% CI=1.19-1.29, p<0.001). Similarly, for recessive, dominant, and additive genetic models, significant associations were also found (recessive: OR=1.40, 95% CI=1.30-1.51; dominant: OR=1.28, 95% CI=1.21-1.36; and additive: OR=1.56, 95% CI=1.44-1.70). Significant associations were also found in Caucasians. The data for Asians showed significant association in allele contrast and recessive, additive genetic models, whereas no statistical significance was found in the dominant genetic model.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated a significant association between the MSMB rs10993994 polymorphisms and PCa risk. Further large-scale studies are warranted to confirm our findings.

H7K(R2)2-modified pH-sensitive self-assembled nanoparticles delivering small interfering RNA targeting hepatoma-derived growth factor for malignant glioma treatment

The lack of effective glioma therapeutics mandates the development of novel treatment strategies. Hepatoma-derived growth factor (HDGF) has been considered as a potential glioma therapeutic target, and its expression level in gliomas is positively related to the malignant grade. Although there are no effective and specific inhibitors against this target, small interfering RNA targeting HDGF (siHDGF)-mediated RNA interference (RNAi) can inhibit the target protein function by knockdown of HDGF expression. However, the application of siHDGF in glioma research and therapy is hampered by the challenge to safe and effective in vivo systemic delivery of siHDGF to gliomas. To address this question, we develop the peptide H₇K(R₂)₂-modified pH-sensitive self-assembled hybrid nanoparticles encapsulating siHDGF (H₇K(R₂)₂-PSNPs (siHDGF)). The acidic glioma microenvironment is beneficial to the membrane penetration of H₇K(R₂)₂-PSNPs and the encapsulated siHDGF. Following systemic administration, H₇K(R₂)₂-PSNPs (siHDGF) can effectively deliver siHDGF into the brain and malignant glioma cells, and therefore can significantly downregulate HDGF expression, inhibit malignant phenotypes of glioma cells, result in reduced tumor volumes and prolonged survival times in nude mice bearing U251 human glioblastoma. Thus, systemic administration of H₇K(R₂)₂-PSNPs (siHDGF) offers an effective way for the targeted delivery of siHDGF and may serve as a practical malignant glioma therapy.

Emerging roles of aerobic glycolysis in breast cancer

Altered aerobic glycolysis is a well-recognized characteristic of cancer cell energy metabolism, known as the Warburg effect. Even in the presence of abundant oxygen, a majority of tumor cells produce substantial amounts of energy through a high glycolytic metabolism, and breast cancer (BC) is no exception. Breast cancer continues to be the second leading cause of cancer-associated mortality in women worldwide. However, the precise role of aerobic glycolysis in the development of BC remains elusive. Therefore, the present review attempts to address the implication of key enzymes of the aerobic glycolytic pathway including hexokinase (HK), phosphofructokinase (PFK) and pyruvate kinase (PK), glucose transporters (GLUTs), together with related signaling pathways including protein kinase B(PI3K/AKT), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and transcription factors (c-myc, p53 and HIF-1) in the research of BC. Thus, the review of aerobic glycolysis in BC may evoke novel ideas for the BC treatment.

Mechanical loading inhibits cartilage inflammatory signalling via an HDAC6 and IFT-dependent mechanism regulating primary cilia elongation

OBJECTIVE

Physiological mechanical loading reduces inflammatory signalling in numerous cell types including articular chondrocytes however the mechanism responsible remains unclear. This study investigates the role of chondrocyte primary cilia and associated intraflagellar transport (IFT) in the mechanical regulation of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) signalling.

DESIGN

Isolated chondrocytes and cartilage explants were subjected to cyclic mechanical loading in the presence and absence of the cytokine IL-1β. Nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) release were used to monitor IL-1β signalling whilst Sulphated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) release provided measurement of cartilage degradation. Measurements were made of HDAC6 activity and tubulin polymerisation and acetylation. Effects on primary cilia were monitored by confocal and super resolution microscopy. Involvement of IFT was analysed using ORPK cells with hypomorphic mutation of IFT88.

RESULTS

Mechanical loading suppressed NO and PGE₂ release and prevented cartilage degradation. Loading activated HDAC6 and disrupted tubulin acetylation and cilia elongation induced by IL-1β. HDAC6 inhibition with tubacin blocked the anti-inflammatory effects of loading and restored tubulin acetylation and cilia elongation. Hypomorphic mutation of IFT88 reduced IL-1β signalling and abolished the anti-inflammatory effects of loading indicating the mechanism is IFT-dependent. Loading reduced the pool of non-polymerised tubulin which was replicated by taxol which also mimicked the anti-inflammatory effects of mechanical loading and prevented cilia elongation.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reveals that mechanical loading suppresses inflammatory signalling, partially dependent on IFT, by activation of HDAC6 and post transcriptional modulation of tubulin.

Serum Homocysteine Levels Had Important Associations with Activity and Quality of Daily Living in Chinese Centenarians

BACKGROUND

Population aging is an important problem worldwide, with activity and quality of daily living commonly reduced in elderly people. leading to increased hospitalization and mortality rates, and substantial individual and social burdens.

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to investigate the associations of serum homocysteine levels with activity and quality of daily living in Chinese centenarians for the first time.

PARTICIPANTS

The China Hainan Centenarian Cohort Study was performed in 18 cities and counties of Hainan Province.

MAIN MEASURES

Home interview, physical examination and blood analysis were performed in 787 centenarians following standard procedures.

KEY RESULTS

The median age was 102 years, ranging between 100 and 115 years. There were 634 females (80.6%) and 153 males (19.4%) in all. The median level of serum homocysteine was 23.80 (18.80-29.90) umol/L, whereas median values of Barthel Index and EuroQol 5 Dimensions were 85(60-95) and 0.661(0.558-0.766), respectively. The centenarians with serum homocysteine levels ≥23.8μmol/L were more likely to had lower values of Barthel Index and EuroQol 5 Dimensions than those with serum homocysteine levels <23.8μmol/L (P<0.05 for all). In multivariate linear regression analyses, serum homocysteine levels were significantly associated with Barthel Index and EuroQol 5 Dimensions (P<0.05 for all).

CONCLUSIONS

Serum homocysteine levels had important associations with activity and quality of daily living in Chinese centenarians. Future research should focus on the value of intervening in serum homocysteine levels by supplying folic acid (vitamin B9) and vitamin B12 on improving activity and quality of daily living in elderly people.

Sex, Residence and Fish Intake Predict Vitamin D Status in Chinese Centenarians

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to investigate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in Chinese centenarians and to identify the factors associated with vitamin D deficiency.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional population-based study.

SETTING

Hainan province in the south of China.

PARTICIPANTS

943 subjects aged 100 years old and older.

METHODS

Details on sociodemographics and lifestyle characteristics were collected using a structured questionnaire. Anthropometrics and blood samples were obtained. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration < 20ng/mL (50nmol/L).

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among these 943 centenarians was 39.9% (376 subjects) and the mean serum vitamin D concentrations were 22.7±9.5 (ng/mL). Female centenarians had higher prevalence of vitamin D deficiency than male (44.0% vs. 21.7%, P <0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that being female, urban residency, lower body mass index, higher serum parathyroid hormone levels, no fish consumption, and less sun exposure time were all significant and independent determinants of vitamin D deficiency. No significant associations of vitamin D deficiency with ethnic, education, geographic location, tea drinking, alcohol use, or smoking were found in this study.

CONCLUSION

Vitamin D deficiency was common in Chinese centenarians, especially in women. Given that vitamin D deficiency is linked to numerous adverse health outcomes, dietary, outdoor activities and other intervention measures are needed to correct vitamin D deficiency in this population.

Relationships of Sex Hormone Levels with Activity of Daily Living in Chinese Female Centenarians

BACKGROUND

Activity of daily living declines in female elderly, which not only increases hospitalization and mortality rates, but also aggravates individual and societal burden. Large samples are needed to elucidate the relationships of plasma sex hormone levels with activity of daily living in Chinese female centenarians to better understand the effects of hormone-replacing therapy.

OBJECTIVE

As the first time in the world, the current study was designed to investigate the relationships of plasma sex hormone levels with activity of daily living in Chinese female centenarians.

PARTICIPANTS

China Hainan Centenarian Cohort Study was carried out in 18 cities and counties of Hainan Province.

MAIN MEASURES

Home interview, physical examination and blood analysis were carried out in 583 female centenarians following standard procedures. Barthel Index was used to assess the activity of daily living.

KEY RESULTS

Median age of all female centenarians was 102 years, with the range from 100 to 115 years. Median values of Barthel Index were 85(60-90). In multivariate linear regression analyses, Barthel Index values were inversely associated with plasma luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-simulating hormone (FSH), testosterone, progesterone and estradiol levels (P<0.05 for all).

CONCLUSION

Plasma sex hormone levels, including LH, FSH, testosterone, progesterone and estradiol, had significant relationships with activity of daily living in Chinese female centenarians.

Targeted methylation sequencing of plasma cell-free DNA for cancer detection and classification

Background

Targeted methylation sequencing of plasma cell-free DNA (cfDNA) has a potential to expand liquid biopsies to patients with tumors without detectable oncogenic alterations, which can be potentially useful in early diagnosis.

Patients and methods

We developed a comprehensive methylation sequencing assay targeting 9223 CpG sites consistently hypermethylated according to The Cancer Genome Atlas. Next, we carried out a clinical validation of our method using plasma cfDNA samples from 78 patients with advanced colorectal cancer, non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), breast cancer or melanoma and compared results with patients' outcomes.

Results

Median methylation scores in plasma cfDNA samples from patients on therapy were lower than from patients off therapy (4.74 versus 85.29; P = 0.001). Of 68 plasma samples from patients off therapy, methylation scores detected the presence of cancer in 57 (83.8%), and methylation-based signatures accurately classified the underlying cancer type in 45 (78.9%) of these. Methylation scores were most accurate in detecting colorectal cancer (96.3%), followed by breast cancer (91.7%), melanoma (81.8%) and NSCLC (61.1%), and most accurate in classifying the underlying cancer type in colorectal cancer (88.5%), followed by NSCLC (81.8%), breast cancer (72.7%) and melanoma (55.6%). Low methylation scores versus high were associated with longer survival (10.4 versus 4.4 months, P < 0.001) and longer time-to-treatment failure (2.8 versus 1.6 months, P = 0.016).

Conclusions

Comprehensive targeted methylation sequencing of 9223 CpG sites in plasma cfDNA from patients with common advanced cancers detects the presence of cancer and underlying cancer type with high accuracy. Methylation scores in plasma cfDNA correspond with treatment outcomes.

High calcium diet alleviates 5/6 nephrectomy-induced bone deteriorations of lumbar vertebrae in mice

Dietary calcium (Ca) supplementation has beneficial effects on bone health. However, it is not clear whether a high calcium diet (HCD) following 5/6 nephrectomy (5/6 Nx) is beneficial to bone health. The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of an HCD on bone metabolism using a chronic kidney disease (CKD) mouse model. Male C57BL/6J mice were divided into three groups: Sham group, 5/6 Nx group and 5/6 Nx + HCD group. Mice were sacrificed 12 weeks post-surgery. Calcium (Ca) and creatinine (Cr) were measured using standard colorimetric methods and picric acid methods, respectively. Bone metabolism-associated markers, FGF-23, PTH, ALP-b and TRAP-5b were measured using ELISA kits. Lumbar vertebrae histomorphological analysis was performed using hematoxylin and eosin staining. The expression of osteoprotegerin (OPG) and receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL) mRNA was detected using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Impaired renal function and histopathological damage was indicated in 5/6 Nx mice. However, HCD had no significant effects on these changes in 5/6 Nx mice. Notably, mineral metabolism disorder and histopathological damage to lumbar vertebrae were markedly improved in HCD-treated 5/6 Nx mice. Compared with 5/6 Nx mice, HCD supplementation significantly elevated the ratio of OPG/RANKL and inhibited RANKL mRNA expression in lumbar vertebrae. To conclude, the present findings indicated that increased Ca intake is effective in increasing bone mineral content of the lumbar vertebrae in 5/6 Nx mice. These results may provide a basis for the clinical use of dietary Ca supplementation as a therapeutic approach to treat CKD-induced disturbance of mineral metabolism and bone loss.

Positively charged and flexible SiO2@ZrO2nanofibrous membranes and their application in adsorption and separation

Tiny particles with a negative charge in water can be removed effectively by inorganic positively charged nanofiber membranes due to their physical separation and electrostatic adsorption properties. However, the charged positive and isoelectric points (IEP) on the surface of the positively charged nanofiber membranes need to be further improved to meet the requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency for virus filters (excellent adsorption and separation properties in solutions with pH between 5 and 9). The positively charged SiO₂@ZrO₂ nanofibrous membrane was fabricated by electrospinning combined with the impregnation method and calcined in an anoxic atmosphere. The effects of the impregnating solution concentration and centrifugal speeds on the morphology, pore size and nanofiber diameter of the composite nanofibrous membrane were investigated. The phase composition, the element valence state, the surface charge and the adsorption separation properties of the composite nanofibrous membranes were characterized. Flexible SiO₂@ZrO₂ nanofibrous membranes with high specific surface area and water flux were obtained. The surface isoelectric point is 7.3 when calcined in a mixed atmosphere of N₂ (96%)/H₂ (4%), which is higher than that when calcined in air and vacuum. Some oxygen vacancies were present on the surface of the ZrO_x (0 < x < 2) shell, resulting in the tetragonal zirconia still being available at room temperature. The interception rate of the positively charged SiO₂@ZrO₂ nanofibrous membranes for a titan yellow solution with a concentration of 10 mg L⁻¹ reaches 99.996%. Its maximum adsorption capacity can reach 63.27 mg cm⁻³ when filtering a 1 L titan yellow solution. The resulting nanofibrous membranes have potential application for the separation of bacteria and viruses from water.

Tiny particles with a negative charge in water can be removed effectively by inorganic positively charged nanofiber membranes due to their physical separation and electrostatic adsorption properties.

The higher prevalence of truncal obesity and diabetes in American than Chinese patients with chronic hepatitis C might contribute to more rapid progression to advanced liver disease

BACKGROUND

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is the leading cause of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the United States (US) and an emerging cause in China.

AIM

To compare the clinical characteristics of hepatitis C patients in the US and China, and factors influencing disease stage.

METHODS

Prospective study of 2 cohorts of HCV patients recruited at 1 site in the US and 3 sites in China. Standardised questionnaire on risk factors and medical history were used and diagnosis of cirrhosis and HCC was based on pre-defined criteria.

RESULTS

One thousand nine hundred and fifty seven patients (1000 US and 957 China) were enrolled. US patients were more likely to be men (61.4% vs 48.5%), older (median age 57 vs 53 years), obese (38.4% vs 16.8%) and diabetic (21.8% vs 10.8%). A significantly higher per cent of US patients had cirrhosis (38.2% vs 16.0%) and HCC (14.1% vs 2.7%). Investigator estimated time at infection in US was 10 years earlier than in Chinese patients but US patients were more likely to have advanced disease even after stratifying for duration of infection. Study site in the US, older age, truncal obesity, diabetes and prior HCV treatment were significant predictors of advanced disease on multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

HCV patients in the US had more advanced liver disease than those in China. We speculate that underlying fatty liver disease may be a major contributor to this difference, and management of glycometabolic abnormalities should occur in parallel with anti-viral therapy to achieve optimal outcomes.

Identification of translationally controlled tumor protein in promotion of DNA homologous recombination repair in cancer cells by affinity proteomics

Translationally controlled tumor protein(TCTP) has been implicated in the regulation of apoptosis, DNA repair and drug resistance. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly defined. To better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying TCTP involved in cellular processes, we performed an affinity purification-based proteomic profiling to identify proteins interacting with TCTP in human cervical cancer HeLa cells. We found that a group of proteins involved in DNA repair are enriched in the potential TCTP interactome. Silencing TCTP by short hairpin RNA in breast carcinoma MCF-7 cells leads to the declined repair efficiency for DNA double-strand breaks on the GFP-Pem1 reporter gene by homologous recombination, the persistent activation and the prolonged retention of γH2AX and Rad51 foci following ionizing radiation. Reciprocal immunoprecipitations indicated that TCTP forms complexes with Rad51 in vivo, and the stability maintenance of Rad51 requires TCTP in MCF-7 cells under normal cell culture conditions. Moreover, inactivation of TCTP by sertraline treatment enhances UVC irradiation-induced apoptosis in MCF-7 cells, and causes sensitization to DNA-damaging drug etoposide and DNA repair inhibitor olaparib. Thus, we have identified an important role of TCTP in promoting DNA double-stand break repair via facilitating DNA homologous recombination processes and highlighted the great potential of TCTP as a drug target to enhance conventional chemotherapy for cancer patients with high levels of TCTP expression.

Multiplex KRASG12/G13 mutation testing of unamplified cell-free DNA from the plasma of patients with advanced cancers using droplet digital polymerase chain reaction

Background

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from plasma offers easily obtainable material for KRAS mutation analysis. Novel, multiplex, and accurate diagnostic systems using small amounts of DNA are needed to further the use of plasma cfDNA testing in personalized therapy.

Patients and methods

Samples of 16 ng of unamplified plasma cfDNA from 121 patients with diverse progressing advanced cancers were tested with a KRASG12/G13 multiplex assay to detect the seven most common mutations in the hotspot of exon 2 using droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR). The results were retrospectively compared to mutation analysis of archival primary or metastatic tumor tissue obtained at different points of clinical care.

Results

Eighty-eight patients (73%) had KRASG12/G13 mutations in archival tumor specimens collected on average 18.5 months before plasma analysis, and 78 patients (64%) had KRASG12/G13 mutations in plasma cfDNA samples. The two methods had initial overall agreement in 103 (85%) patients (kappa, 0.66; ddPCR sensitivity, 84%; ddPCR specificity, 88%). Of the 18 discordant cases, 12 (67%) were resolved by increasing the amount of cfDNA, using mutation-specific probes, or re-testing the tumor tissue, yielding overall agreement in 115 patients (95%; kappa 0.87; ddPCR sensitivity, 96%; ddPCR specificity, 94%). The presence of ≥ 6.2% of KRASG12/G13 cfDNA in the wild-type background was associated with shorter survival (P = 0.001).

Conclusion(s)

Multiplex detection of KRASG12/G13 mutations in a small amount of unamplified plasma cfDNA using ddPCR has good sensitivity and specificity and good concordance with conventional clinical mutation testing of archival specimens. A higher percentage of mutant KRASG12/G13 in cfDNA corresponded with shorter survival.

MiR-155 regulates oral squamous cell carcinoma Tca8113 cell proliferation, cycle, and apoptosis via regulating p27Kip1

OBJECTIVE

P27Kip1 is the one of the negative regulators of the cell cycle that plays an important role in regulating cell cycle and inhibiting cell proliferation by restraining cell in G1 phase. P27Kip1 downregulation maybe related to the occurrence of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). It was found that miR-155 significantly upregulated in OSCC tissue. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that miR-155 may bind with the 3'-UTR of p27Kip1. This study investigated the role of miR-155 in regulating p27Kip1 and affecting Tca8113 cell proliferation, cycle, and apoptosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 46 cases of OSCC patients received treatment in our hospital were enrolled to obtain tumor tissue. Another 25 normal oral mucosa samples were selected as control to detect the relationship between miR-155 and p27Kip1 expressions. Dual luciferase assay was adopted to confirm the targeted relationship between miR-155 and p27Kip1. Flow cytometry was applied to test cell apoptosis and cell cycle. CCK-8 assay was used to evaluate cell proliferation. Caspase-3 activity was detected by spectrophotometry.

RESULTS

MiR-155 upregulated, while p27Kip1 declined in OSCC tissue compared with normal oral mucosa. Their expressions were related to TNM stage. MiR-155 targeted suppressed p27Kip1 expression. MiR-155 mimic and/or pEGFP-p27Kip1 transfection obviously declined p27Kip1 expression, blocked cell cycle in G1 phase, reduced cell proliferation, enhanced Caspase-3 activity, and increased cell apoptosis in Tca8113 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

MiR-155 increased, while p27Kip1 reduced in OSCC tissue. Inhibition of miR-155 upregulated p27Kip1 expression, blocked cell cycle in G1 phase, weakened cell proliferation, and induced cell apoptosis.

Adsorption and separation properties of positively charged ZrO2nanofibrous membranes fabricated by electrospinning

Positively charged ZrO₂nanofibrous membranes with high interception rate and adsorption capacity to separate and remove negatively charged particles.

[Determination of trace bismuth by atomic fluorescence spectrometry in blood]

Objective: To establish a method for determination trace bismuth in blood by atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS) . Methods: 4.0 ml nitric acid and 1.0 ml perchloric acid was added into 1.0 ml blood sample then through automation graphite digestion instrument digested, after that 1.0 ml thiocarbamide-vitamin (10%) was injected, 8% HCl constant volume to 10.0 ml, the bismuth was detected by atomic fluorescence spectrometry with 5.0 ml digestive sample. Results: The method showed a linear relationship within the range of 0.4-50.0 μg/L (r=0.999 7) . The within-run and between-run relative standard deviations (RSD) of repetitive measurement at 10.0, 20.0, 40.0 μg/L concentration levels were 2.2%-4.9% and 3.0%-4.0%. The detection limit was 0.032 μg/L. The recoveries of bismuth were 93.0%-103.9%. Conclusion: This method is low detection limit, good accurate and high sensitivity. It has been applied for determination of trace bismuth in blood samples those who need occupation health examination or poisoning diagnosis.

A meta-analysis of external fixation and flexible intramedullary nails for femoral fractures in children

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this meta-analysis was to compare the outcomes of external fixation and flexible intramedullary nails for femoral fractures in children between 5 and 15 years of age based on the current evidence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched relevent studies in the following database: Cochrane library, PubMed and EMABASE up to May 2014. All randomized controlled trials, Clinical controlled trials and retrospective controlled studies comparing external fixation and flexible intramedullary nails in femoral fractures of children were included. Data was extracted independently for meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Seven trials altogether involving 338 cases of femoral fractures of children treated by external fixation (128 cases) and flexible intramedullary nails (210 cases) were included in the meta-analysis. Results showed that flexible intramedullary nails was superior to external fixation in less time to union , lower postoperative infection rate and refracture rate . It may not increase delayed union, Limb-length discrepancy , pain and bursitis . Both fixations obtained a similar patient satisfaction.

CONCLUSION

Flexible intramedullary nail had greater advantages for the treatment of femoral fractures in children aged 5-15 years, compared to external fixation based on current meta-analysis. This conclusion will ultimately require rigorous and adequately powered randomized controlled trials to be proved.

Resveratrol, an antioxidant, protects spinal cord injury in rats by suppressing MAPK pathway

Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in various plants, including grapes, plums and peanuts has shown various medIRInal properties, including antioxidant, protection of cardiovascular disease and cancer risk. However, the effects of resveratrol on spinal cord reperfusion injury have not been investigated. Hence, the present study was designed to evaluate the effect of resveratrol on nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)/p38MAPK signaling pathway and to elucidate its regulating effect on the protection of spinal cord injury. Spinal cord ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI) was performed by the infrarenal abdominal aorta with mini aneurysm clip model. The expressions of iNOS and p38MAPK and the levels of biochemical parameters, including nitrite/nitrate, malondialdehyde (MDA), advanced oxidation products (AOPP), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were measured in control and experimental groups. IRI-induced rats treated with 10 mg/kg resveratrol protected spinal cord from ischemia injury as supported by improved biological parameters measured in spinal cord tissue homogenates. The resveratrol treatment significantly decreased the levels of plasma nitrite/nitrate, iNOS mRNA and protein expressions and phosphorylation of p38MAPK in IRI-induced rats. Further, IRI-produced free radicals were reduced by resveratrol treatment by increasing enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant levels such as GSH, SOD and CAT. Taken together, administration of resveratrol protects the damage caused by spinal cord ischemia with potential mechanism of suppressing the activation of iNOS/p38MAPK pathway and subsequent reduction of oxidative stress due to IRI.

[Determination of trace gallium by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry in urine]

OBJECTIVE

To establish a method for determination trace gallium in urine by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS).

METHODS

The ammonium dihydrogen phosphate was matrix modifier. The temperature effect about pyrolysis (Tpyr) and atomization temperature were optimized for determination of trace gallium. The method of technical standard about within-run, between-run and recoveries of standard were optimized.

RESULTS

The method showed a linear relationship within the range of 0.20~80.00 μg/L (r=0.998). The within-run and between-run relative standard deviations (RSD) of repetitive measurement at 5.0, 10.0, 20.0 μg/L concentration levels were 2.1%~5.5% and 2.3%~3.0%. The detection limit was 0.06 μg/L. The recoveries of gallium were 98.2%~101.1%.

CONCLUSION

This method is simple, low detection limit, accurate, reliable and reproducible. It has been applied for determination of trace gallium in urine samples those who need occupation health examination or poisoning diagnosis.

Evaluation of the taxonomic status of water dropwort (Oenanthe, Apiaceae) accessions from East Asia based on nuclear rDNA internal transcribed spacer sequences

Oenanthe L. is a taxonomically complex genus, several species of which have long been used as vegetables and traditional medicines in East Asia. In order to clarify the taxonomic status of Oenanthe accessions and provide baseline data for the sustainable use of its genetic resources, we examined sequence variations in the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of Oenanthe accessions collected from a wide geographical area in China and its neighboring countries. For comparison, ITS sequences in GenBank for almost all currently reported species of Oenanthe were also included in our analyses. Both phylogenetic tree construction methods (Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood) revealed that the accessions tended to cluster into two groups, which were closely related to O. mildbraedii and O. sarmentosa. However, these two species have never been recorded in China or its neighboring countries. Therefore, it seems probable that in our sampled locations, Oenanthe accessions have been given an incorrect name, such as O. javanica. Future studies should carefully check the morphological characteristics of other Oenanthe species and sequence their ITS regions in order to clarify the taxonomic status of the genus.

Calpain 2-mediated autophagy defect increases susceptibility of fatty livers to ischemia-reperfusion injury

Hepatic steatosis is associated with significant morbidity and mortality after liver resection and transplantation. This study focuses on the role of autophagy in regulating sensitivity of fatty livers to ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) injury. Quantitative immunohistochemistry conducted on human liver allograft biopsies showed that, the reduction of autophagy markers LC3 and Beclin-1 at 1 h after reperfusion, was correlated with hepatic steatosis and poor survival of liver transplant recipients. In animal studies, western blotting and confocal imaging analysis associated the increase in sensitivity to I/R injury with low autophagy activity in fatty livers. Screening of autophagy-related proteins showed that Atg3 and Atg7 expression levels were marked decreased, whereas calpain 2 expression was upregulated during I/R in fatty livers. Calpain 2 inhibition or knockdown enhanced autophagy and suppressed cell death. Further point mutation experiments revealed that calpain 2 cleaved Atg3 and Atg7 at Atg3Δ92-97 and Atg7Δ344-349, respectively. In vivo and in vitro overexpression of Atg3 or Atg7 enhanced autophagy and suppressed cell death after I/R in fatty livers. Collectively, calpain 2-mediated degradation of Atg3 and Atg7 in fatty livers increases their sensitivity to I/R injury. Increasing autophagy may ameliorate fatty liver damage and represent a valuable method to expand the liver donor pool.

NETosis-associated serum biomarkers are reduced in type 1 diabetes in association with neutrophil count

As the immune pathways involved in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes (T1D) are not fully understood, biomarkers implicating novel mechanisms of disease are of great interest and call for independent evaluation. Recently, it was reported that individuals with T1D display dramatic elevations in circulating components of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), indicating a potential role for NETosis in T1D. Our aim was to evaluate further the potential of NET-associated proteins as novel circulating biomarkers in T1D. We tested serum from subjects with T1D (n = 44) with a median age of 26·5 years and a median duration of 2·2 years, along with 38 age-matched controls. T1D subjects did not show elevations in either neutrophil elastase (NE) or proteinase 3 (PR3), as reported previously. In fact, both NE and PR3 levels were reduced significantly in T1D subjects, particularly in subjects within 3 years of diagnosis, consistent with the known reduction in neutrophil counts in recent-onset T1D. Indeed, levels of both NE and PR3 correlated with absolute neutrophil counts. Therefore, while not ruling out potential local or transient spikes in NETosis activity, the levels of these serum markers do not support a role for systemically elevated NETosis in the T1D population we studied. Rather, a modest reduction in these markers may reflect other important aspects of disease activity associated with reduced neutrophil numbers.

Expression and clinical significance of insulin-like growth factor 1 in lung cancer tissues and perioperative circulation from patients with non-small-cell lung cancer

OBJECTIVE

We explored the role of insulin-like growth factor 1 (igf-1) in the development of lung cancer.

METHODS

We used immunohistochemistry to measure the expression of igf-1 and igf-1 receptor (igf-1r) in specimens of tissue and perioperative circulation from 80 patients with primary non-small-cell lung cancer (nsclc) and from 45 patients with benign pulmonary lesions (bpls). Correlations of those measurements with clinicopathologic characteristics and clinical follow-up were analyzed. Circulating igf-1 was measured before and after surgery in all patients.

RESULTS

Compared with bpl specimens, nsclc specimens showed overexpression of igf-1and igf-1r (p < 0.001). The expression levels of igf-1 and igf-1r were significantly associated with advanced-stage disease (p = 0.034 and 0.029 respectively) and lymph node metastasis (p = 0.012 and 0.017 respectively), and expression of igf-1 correlated with tumour differentiation and tumour diameter (p = 0.011 and 0.021 respectively). Specimens positive for igf-1 or igf-1r were significantly correlated with shorter patient survival (p = 0.0012 and 0.0016 respectively). After surgery, circulating igf-1 was significantly elevated in patients with bpl (p = 0.0346) and significantly lower in patients with nsclc (p = 0.0030), especially in those with advanced-stage disease, a larger tumour size, regional lymphoid node metastasis, or lesser differentiation (p = 0.0092, 0.0051, 0.0131, and p < 0.001 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

In nsclc, igf-1 and igf-1r are upregulated, and expression of those factors is correlated with tumour progression and prognosis in nsclc patients. Radical resection of nsclc can directly influence the serum concentration of igf-1. Autocrine/paracrine igf-1 might be playing an important role in the development of lung cancer.

Abstract P1-11-04: Long-term patient satisfaction with cosmetic outcome and psychosocial wellbeing after breast conserving therapy is affected only by lumpectomy volume

Introduction: Breast conserving therapy (BCT) is considered the treatment of choice for early stage breast cancer by National Cancer Institute guidelines. Little data exists on patient-reported satisfaction and quality of life outcomes after lumpectomy with radiation. This study aims to identify factors influencing satisfaction with cosmetic outcome and quality of life in patients receiving BCT using a validated instrument.

Methods: All patients treated with lumpectomy and radiation for breast cancer at our institution from 1997-2012 received a mailed questionnaire containing the BREAST-Q breast conservation module (graciously provided by Dr A. Pusic, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center), a validated quality of life survey instrument. A retrospective chart review was performed for survey responders for demographic, treatment, and staging information. Scores were calculated for satisfaction with appearance of the breast, adverse effects of radiation, sexual wellbeing, psychosocial wellbeing and physical wellbeing: upper body and arm. Pearson correlation coefficients were obtained. Wilcoxon rank-sum and one-way ANOVA were used to identify associations between patient variables and satisfaction scores. Multivariate regression was used to assess confounding variables.

Results: A total of 110 questionnaires (response rate of 29.5%) fit criteria for analysis. The mean age of respondents was 65.9±11.2 yrs, and mean time since diagnosis was 91.8±53.1 mos. We observed the strongest correlations between satisfaction with breast appearance and sexual wellbeing (r=0.66, p&lt;0.01), breast appearance and psychosocial wellbeing (r=0.62, p&lt;0.01), and fewer effects of radiation and physical wellbeing (r=0.65, p&lt;0.01). Lumpectomy volume was associated with decreased satisfaction with breast appearance (r=-0.32, p &lt;0.01) and psychosocial wellbeing (r=-0.19, p&lt;0.05). There was no correlation between satisfaction with breast appearance and patient age, time since surgery, history of re-excision, stage or localization technique. Patients with older age at diagnosis reported significantly fewer effects of radiation and better psychosocial, physical, and sexual wellbeing (all p&lt;0.05) (Table 1). The incidence of recurrence was 2.7% and did not impact satisfaction scores.

Distribution of Satisfaction/Quality of Life Outcomes by Age at Diagnosis  Satisfaction/Quality of Life*AgeNBreastAdverse Effects of RadiationPsychosocialSexualPhysical&lt;451458±2282±1973±1945±2074±1645-553264±2683±1980±2054±2579±1756-602667±1794±983±2370±1885±1361-651267±2989±2383±2053±2983±17&gt;652670±2391±1288±1663±2588±25All11065±2388±1682±2058±2482±19P 0.1590.0190.0140.0300.002*Rasch scores range from 0-100 where 100 indicates highest satisfaction

Conclusions: In women undergoing BCT, patient satisfaction with appearance of the breast and psychosocial wellbeing at 7.6 years of follow-up correlated with the volume of tissue removed but no other patient or tumor characteristics. Increasing age at diagnosis was associated with greater satisfaction in multiple domains. These results emphasize the importance of precise surgical technique and patient selection in order to achieve long-term patient satisfaction with BCT.

Citation Format: Welsh JL, Fu S, Liao J, Sugg SL, Scott-Conner CE, Weigel RJ, Erdahl LM, Lizarraga IM. Long-term patient satisfaction with cosmetic outcome and psychosocial wellbeing after breast conserving therapy is affected only by lumpectomy volume. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P1-11-04.

Adulterants in Urine Drug Testing

Urine drug testing plays an important role in monitoring licit and illicit drug use for both medico-legal and clinical purposes. One of the major challenges of urine drug testing is adulteration, a practice involving manipulation of a urine specimen with chemical adulterants to produce a false negative test result. This problem is compounded by the number of easily obtained chemicals that can effectively adulterate a urine specimen. Common adulterants include some household chemicals such as hypochlorite bleach, laundry detergent, table salt, and toilet bowl cleaner and many commercial products such as UrinAid (glutaraldehyde), Stealth® (containing peroxidase and peroxide), Urine Luck (pyridinium chlorochromate, PCC), and Klear® (potassium nitrite) available through the Internet. These adulterants can invalidate a screening test result, a confirmatory test result, or both. To counteract urine adulteration, drug testing laboratories have developed a number of analytical methods to detect adulterants in a urine specimen. While these methods are useful in detecting urine adulteration when such activities are suspected, they do not reveal what types of drugs are being concealed. This is particularly the case when oxidizing urine adulterants are involved as these oxidants are capable of destroying drugs and their metabolites in urine, rendering the drug analytes undetectable by any testing technology. One promising approach to address this current limitation has been the use of unique oxidation products formed from reaction of drug analytes with oxidizing adulterants as markers for monitoring drug misuse and urine adulteration. This novel approach will ultimately improve the effectiveness of the current urine drug testing programs.