Effect of a lytic bacteriophage on rabbits experimentally infected with pathogenic Escherichia coli

Pathogenic <em>Escherichia coli</em> (<em>E. coli</em>) is severely threatening the rabbit industry in China, and the concern over antibiotic-resistant bacteria has given rise to an urgent need for antibiotic alternatives. In this study, a member (ZRP1) of the <em>Myoviridae</em> family was isolated from rabbit faeces using a strain of rabbit atypical enteropathogenic <em>E. coli</em> (ZR1) as host. The one-step growth curve indicated that the latent period was around 25 to 30 min and the burst size was 144±31 plaque-forming unit/cell. The rate of phage-resistant mutation was 7×10^–5±4×10^–5. When the bacteriophage input at the multiplicity of infection (MOI) was 0.1, 1 or 10, the growth of host <em>E. coli</em> in broth was inhibited for 5 h. A single intravenous injection of ZRP1 at MOI 0.1, 1 or 10 significantly prolonged the survival time of rabbits which simultaneously received a lethal dose of ZR1.

Enteral versus parenteral nutrition in critically ill patients with severe pancreatitis: a meta-analysis

Whether enteral nutrition (EN) is superior to parenteral nutrition (PN) in critically ill patients with severe acute pancreatitis remains unknown. The objective of this meta-analysis was to assess the effects of EN versus PN on clinical outcomes in a subgroup of pancreatitis patients. Relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were searched in Scopus, PubMed and Web of Science from inception to August 2016. Ultimately, five RCTs including 348 patients were enrolled in this analysis. Compared with PN, EN was associated with a significant reduction in overall mortality (risk ratio (RR)=0.36, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.20-0.65, P=0.001) and the rate of multiple organ failure (RR=0.39, 95% CI 0.21-0.73, P=0.003). EN should be recommended as the preferred route of nutrition for critically ill patients with severe acute pancreatitis.

Evaluation of the role of 8-iso-PGF levels at multiple sites during intracranial hemorrhage in pediatric patients

OBJECTIVE

The present study was planned to explore the role of 8-isomeric-prostaglandinF2α (8-iso-PGF2α) levels at the multiple sites of cerebrospinal fluid in children with intracranial hemorrhage.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

90 children with intracranial hemorrhage were admitted to Surgery Intensive Care Unit (SICU) of our hospital from January to December 2013 and were selected as study subjects. They were divided into group A (n=30), group B (n=30) and group C (n=30). The group A was given conventional treatment, the group B was treated with minimally invasive puncture and the group C was treated with cerebrospinal fluid decompression. After 1 d, 2 d, 3 d, and 7 d of hospitalization, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect the 8-iso-PGF2α levels in peripheral blood of children in all groups. On the day of admission and 10 d after treatment, 3 groups of children were implemented with brain nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy for metabolite analyses.

RESULTS

On the day of admission there were no significant differences in the 8-iso-PGF2α levels among group A, B and C. Further, after 1 d, 3 d, 7 d of hospital stay, the 8-iso-PGF2α levels in peripheral blood showed a gradual downward trend, and decline range of the group C was greater than that of group A and B (p < 0.05). After 10 days of treatment, there were significant differences in the bilateral temporal lobe and hippocampal NAA/Creatinine (Cr), Cho/Cr, mI/Cr and NAA/mI among group A, B, and C. The survival rate of group C was higher than that of group A and B (p < 0.05). On the other hand, the prevalence of sequelae was significantly lower than that of group A and B (p < 0.05). The amount of blood loss in children with intracranial hemorrhage was positively correlated with the levels of 8-iso-PGF2α in peripheral blood (r = 0.546, p < 0.05) as observed by Spearman correlation analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

8-iso-PGF2α plays an important role in the pathogenesis of intracranial hemorrhage, and could be utilized as a biomarker of oxidative stress in children with intracranial hemorrhage. Further, cerebrospinal fluid decompression is a better method of treatment for intracranial hemorrhage.

A pilot study of nocturnal temporalis muscle activity in TMD diagnostic groups of women

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) incidences are believed to be related to parafunctional behaviours like teeth clenching. This pilot study aimed to (i) develop an automated clench-detection algorithm, and (ii) apply the algorithm to test for differences in nocturnal clenching in women with and without TMD. Subjects gave informed consent to participate. Adult women were categorised using Diagnostic Criteria for TMD according to presence/absence (+/-) of both TM joint disc placement (DD) and chronic pain (P) into two groups (+DD+P, -DD-P) with 12 subjects each. Surface temporalis electromyography was recorded during oral tasks performed by subjects at two laboratory sessions. The data were used to characterise muscle activity per N of bite force (μV/N) for each subject, develop the clench-detection algorithm and test its accuracy. Ambulatory surface temporalis electromyography was self-recorded by each subject over three nights and analysed using the algorithm and bite force (N) versus muscle activity μV/N calibrations. Bonferroni-adjusted homoscedastic t-tests assessed for significant between-group differences in clenching (P < 0·05). Sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of algorithm-detected laboratory clenches were all ≥96%. During self-recordings 95% of clenches had durations of <4 s and peak forces of <10 N in both groups. Mean clench durations were significantly longer (P = 0·042) in +DD+P (1·9 ± 0·8 s) than -DD-P subjects (1·4 ± 0·4 s). Mean temporalis duty factors (%clench time/total recording time) were significantly larger (P = 0·041) in +DD+P (0·47 ± 0·34%) than -DD-P (0·26 ±0·22%) subjects. Nocturnal temporalis muscle activities detected by a validated algorithm were longer per clench and recording time in +DD+P compared to -DD-P women.

Identification of Suitable Reference Genes for mRNA Studies in Bone Marrow in a Mouse Model of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

BACKGROUND

Bone marrow micro-environment changes during hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) with subsequent alteration of genes expression. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (q-PCR) is a reliable and reproducible technique for the analysis of gene expression. To obtain more accurate results, it is essential to find a reference during HSCT. However, which gene is suitable during HSCT remains unclear. This study aimed to identify suitable reference genes for mRNA studies in bone marrow after HSCT.

METHODS

C57BL/6 mice were treated with either total body irradiation (group T) or busulfan/cyclophosphamide (BU/CY) (group B) followed by infusion of bone marrow cells. Normal mice without treatments were served as a control. All samples (group T + group B + control) were defined as group G. On days 7, 14, and 21 after transplantation, transcription levels of 7 candidate genes, ACTB, B2M, GAPDH, HMBS, HPRT, SDHA, and YWHAZ, in bone marrow cells were measured by use of real-time quantitative PCR. The expression stability of these 7 candidate reference genes were analyzed by 2 statistical software programs, GeNorm and NormFinder.

RESULTS

Our results showed that ACTB displayed the highest expression in group G, with lowest expression of PSDHA in group T and HPRT in groups B and G. Analysis of expression stability by use of GeNorm or NormFinder demonstrated that expression of B2M in bone marrow were much more stable during HSCT, compared with other candidate genes including commonly used reference genes GAPDH and ACTB.

CONCLUSIONS

ACTB could be used as a suitable reference gene for mRNA studies in bone marrow after HSCT.

Pachymic acid ameliorates sepsis-induced acute kidney injury by suppressing inflammation and activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway in rats

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the protective effects and underlying mechanisms of pachymic acid (PA) on sepsis-induced acute kidney injury (AKI).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sepsis-induced AKI model was made by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) surgery in SD rats. Animals were randomly divided into 5 groups: a sham group, a CLP group, and three PA-treated groups, which received intraperitoneal injection of PA at the dosage of 5, 20 and 50 mg/kg.bw, respectively. Kidney index, Cre and BUN contents were determined to evaluate the renal function. Pathological changes of kidney tissue were observed by HE staining. Levels of inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-6) were measured to assess the inflammation in renal tissue. Moreover, the expression levels of iNOS, Nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) were studied by Real-time PCR and Western blot.

RESULTS

PA treatment can significantly decrease the kidney index, and notably drop the contents of Cre and BUN. Renal pathological damage was also found to be effectively improved by PA in a dose-dependent manner. PA treatment was observed to inhibit the renal inflammation by reducing the TNF-α and IL-6 levels. Besides, PA treatment significantly decreased the expression levels of iNOS, and enhanced the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 in the kidney.

CONCLUSIONS

PA had potential therapeutic effects on sepsis-induced AKI in rats, and the activity may be associated with the anti-inflammatory function and antioxidant effect via activating Nrf2/ HO-1 pathway.

NAC attenuates adriamycin-induced nephrotic syndrome in rats through regulating TLR4 signaling pathway

OBJECTIVE

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a detrimental renal disease that affects a large population. It is suggested that Toll-like Receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling pathway plays an important role in NS. The aim of this study was to evaluate the immunosuppressive effect of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in the treatment of NS elucidate its interaction with TLR4 pathway in a rat model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rat NS model was constructed using the Bertain method by injecting adriamycin (4.5 mg/kg) intravenously at day 1, and injecting 2 mg/kg adriamycin (ADR) at day 7. NS rats were treatment with NAC of 150 mg/kg daily through gavage. Control rats received equivalent amounts of saline daily. Quantitative Real-time PCR was used to evaluate TLR4 expression in kidney tissues after treatments. Western blot analysis was used to evaluate NF-κBp65 expression. ELISA was used to evaluate the expression of immunological factors, including TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β.

RESULTS

Rat NS models demonstrated higher protein levels in urine, accompanied by an increased in the TLR4 level. After NAC treatment, TLR4 level was reduced. NAC treatment also attenuated the NF-κBp65 overexpression in NS rats. Concomitantly, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β levels, which are indicators of immunological and informatory responses, were also decreased after NAC treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

NAC treatment ameliorated nephrotic syndrome in NS rat models by suppressing TLR4 signaling, as well as immunological and inflammatory responses.

Structure-Function Relationships of Temporomandibular Retrodiscal Tissue

It is estimated that 2% to 4% of the US population will seek treatment for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) symptoms, typically occurring with anterior disc displacement. The temporomandibular retrodiscal tissue (RDT) has been postulated to restrict pathologic disc displacement. To elucidate RDT function, understanding regional RDT biomechanics and ultrastructure is required. No prior biomechanical analysis has determined regional variations in RDT properties or associated biomechanical outcomes with regional variations in collagen and elastin organization. The purpose of this study was to determine direction- and region-dependent tensile biomechanical characteristics and regional fibrillar arrangement of porcine RDT. Incremental stress relaxation experiments were performed on 20 porcine RDT specimens, with strain increments from 5% to 50%, a ramp-strain rate of 2% per second, and relaxation periods of 2.5 min. Tensile characteristics were determined between temporal and condylar regions and anteroposterior and mediolateral directions. RDT preparations were imaged using second-harmonic generation (SHG) microscopy for both collagen and elastin. Young's modulus showed significant differences by region ( P < 0.001) and strain ( P < 0.001). Young's modulus was <1 MPa from 5% to 20% strain, before increasing from 20% to 50% strain to a maximum of 2.9 MPa. Young's modulus trended higher in the temporal region and mediolateral direction. Instantaneous and relaxed moduli showed no significant difference by region or direction. Collagen arrangement was most organized near the disc boundary, with disorganization increasing posteriorly. Elastin was present at the disc boundary and RDT mid-body. Porcine RDT demonstrated region- and strain-dependent variations in tensile moduli, associated with regional differences in collagen and elastin. The small tensile moduli suggest that the RDT is not resistive to pathologic disc displacement. Further biomechanical analysis of the RDT is required to fully define RDT functional roles. Understanding regional variations in tissue stiffness and ultrastructure for TMJ components is critical to understanding joint function and for the long-term goal of improving TMJ disorder treatment strategies.

Activating JAK2 mutants reveal cytokine receptor coupling differences that impact outcomes in myeloproliferative neoplasm

Janus tyrosine kinase 2 (JAK2) mediates downstream signaling of cytokine receptors in all hematological lineages, yet constitutively active JAK2 mutants are able to drive selective expansion of particular lineage(s) in myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN). The molecular basis of lineage specificity is unclear. Here, we show that three activating JAK2 mutants with similar kinase activities in vitro elicit distinctive MPN phenotypes in mice by differentially expanding erythroid vs granulocytic precursors. Molecularly, this reflects the differential binding of JAK2 mutants to cytokine receptors EpoR and GCSFR in the erythroid vs granulocytic lineage and the creation of unique receptor/JAK2 complexes that generate qualitatively distinct downstream signals. Our results demonstrate that activating JAK2 mutants can differentially couple to selective cytokine receptors and change the signaling repertoire, revealing the molecular basis for phenotypic differences elicited by JAK2 (V617F) or mutations in exon 12. On the basis of these findings, receptor-JAK2 interactions could represent new targets of lineage-specific therapeutic approaches against MPN, which may be applicable to other cancers with aberrant JAK-STAT signaling.

Rosenbluth Separation of the π^{0} Electroproduction Cross Section

We present deeply virtual π^{0} electroproduction cross-section measurements at x_{B}=0.36 and three different Q^{2} values ranging from 1.5 to 2  GeV^{2}, obtained from Jefferson Lab Hall A experiment E07-007. The Rosenbluth technique is used to separate the longitudinal and transverse responses. Results demonstrate that the cross section is dominated by its transverse component and, thus, is far from the asymptotic limit predicted by perturbative quantum chromodynamics. Nonetheless, an indication of a nonzero longitudinal contribution is provided by the measured interference term σ_{LT}. Results are compared with several models based on the leading-twist approach of generalized parton distributions (GPDs). In particular, a fair agreement is obtained with models in which the scattering amplitude includes convolution terms of chiral-odd (transversity) GPDs of the nucleon with the twist-3 pion distribution amplitude. This experiment, together with previous extensive unseparated measurements, provides strong support to the exciting idea that transversity GPDs can be accessed via neutral pion electroproduction in the high-Q^{2} regime.

[Epidemic features of dyslipidemia among Uygur, Kazakh and Han ethnic groups in Urumqi]

Objective: To analyze the epidemic features of dyslipidemia among 39 980 Uygur, Kazak and Han ethnic groups in Urumqi, and to explore the methods of prevention and treatment on dyslipidemia. Methods: The differences of blood total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) of health examination population with different ethnics, genders, and ages were compared, from 2012 to 2014 in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University. Results: Among the Uygur, Kazak and Han ethnic groups, the positive rate was respectively 35.0%, 37.0%, 30.3% in TC; 34.5%, 30.1% and 32.0% in TG; 24.9%, 18.3%, and 18.2% in HDL-C; 30.1%, 31.6% and 23.3% in LDL-C. In the same ethnic group, the abnormality rate of blood lipid in the female was lower than that of the male (P<0.001). The blood lipid abnormality rate increased significantly in those with 30-39 years, and reached the highest value in the 50-59 years group, then it decreased in those aged over 60 years (P<0.001). Conclusion: The lipid abnormality rate of the Uygur and Kazak residents was higher than that of the Han nationality, and the abnormal levels of TC and LDL-C were particularly evident in Urumqi.

[Current status of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in nurses in Xinjiang, China]

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in nurses in Xinjiang, China, to analyze the influencing factors for the development of WMSDs, and to provide a reference for the prevention and treatment of WMSDs in nurses. Methods: Stratified cluster sampling was used to randomly select 8 422 nurses in 8 tertiary hospitals and 4 secondary hospitals in Xinjiang from January to October, 2015. A questionnaire survey was performed to investigate the prevalence of WMSDs in nurses from departments of internal medicine, surgery, gynecology, pediatrics, emergency, and intensive care and operating rooms and analyze related influencing factors. Results: A total of 3 000 questionnaires were distributed, and 2 851 questionnaires were returned, resulting in a recovery rate of 95.00%. In the nurses who participated in the survey, the prevalence of WMSDs was 78.58%. As for different body parts, the prevalence of WMSDs was 63.36% in the waist, 61.79% in the neck, 52.52% in the shoulder, 41.83% in the back, 35.56% in the knees, 33.35% in the ankles, 26.02% in the wrists, 23.41% in the hip, and 17.62% in the elbows. There were significant differences in the prevalence of WMSDs across the nurses with different ages and working years (χ²=28.29 and 27.73, both P<0.01) , and the prevalence of WMSDs tended to increase with the increasing age and working years (χ²=22.94 and 17.56, both P<0.01) . The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that sex, working years, intensive care/emergency, outpatient service, surgical anesthesia, weekly working hours, physical condition, and fatigue in work were risk factors for WMSDs in nurses. Conclusion: In the nurses in Xinjiang, the prevalence of WMSDs in the neck, shoulder, back, and waist is high, and nurses with different ages, working years, departments, sexes, physical conditions, and weekly working hours have varying degrees of risk of WMSDs.

Viscoelastic shear properties of porcine temporomandibular joint disc

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the intrinsic viscoelastic shear properties in porcine TMJ discs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twelve fresh porcine TMJ discs from young adult pigs (6-8 months) were used. Cylindrical samples (5 mm diameter) with uniform thickness (~1.2 mm) were prepared from five regions of the TMJ disc. Torsional shear tests were performed under 10% compressive strain. Dynamic shear was applied in two methods: 1) a frequency sweep test over the frequency range of 0.1-10 rad/s with a constant shear strain amplitude of 0.05 rad and 2) a strain sweep test over the range of 0.005-0.15 rad at a constant frequency of 10 rad/s. Transient stress relaxation tests were also performed to determine the equilibrium shear properties.

RESULTS

As the frequency increased in the frequency sweep test, the dynamic shear complex modulus increased, with values ranging from 7 to 17 kPa. The phase angle, ranging from 11 to 15 degrees, displayed no pattern of regional variation as the frequency increased. The dynamic shear modulus decreased as the shear strain increased. The equilibrium shear modulus had values ranging from 2.6 to 4 kPa. The posterior region had significantly higher values for dynamic shear modulus than those in the anterior region, while no significant regional difference was found for equilibrium shear modulus.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that the intrinsic region-dependent viscoelastic shear characteristics of TMJ disc may play a crucial role in determining the local strain of the TMJ disc under mechanical loading.

Genome-Wide Identification of the AP2/ERF Gene Family Involved in Active Constituent Biosynthesis in

Tanshinones and phenolic acids are the major bioactive constituents in the traditional medicinal crop ; however, transcription factors (TFs) are seldom investigated with regard to their regulation of the biosynthesis of these compounds. Here a complete overview of the APETALA2/ethylene-responsive factor (AP2/ERF) transcription factor family in is provided, including phylogeny, gene structure, conserved motifs, and gene expression profiles of different organs (root, stem, leaf, flower) and root tissues (periderm, phloem, xylem). In total, 170 AP2/ERF genes were identified and divided into five relatively conserved subfamilies, including AP2 (25 genes), DREB (61 genes), ethylene responsive factor (ERF; 79 genes), RAV (4 genes), and Soloist (1 gene). According to the distribution of bioactive constituents and the expression patterns of AP2/ERF genes in different organs and root tissues, the genes related to the biosynthesis of bioactive constituents were selected. On the basis of quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis, coexpression analysis, and the prediction of -regulatory elements in the promoters, we propose that two genes ( and ) regulate tanshinone biosynthesis and two genes ( and ) participate in controlling phenolic acid biosynthesis. The genes related to tanshinone biosynthesis belong to the ERF-B3 subgroup. In contrast, the genes predicted to regulate phenolic acid biosynthesis belong to the ERF-B1 and ERF-B4 subgroups. These results provide a foundation for future functional characterization of AP2/ERF genes to enhance the biosynthesis of the bioactive compounds of .

Effect of uric acid on mitochondrial function and oxidative stress in hepatocytes

Here, we investigated the effect of uric acid (UA) on hepatocyte mitochondria. Hepatocytes cultured in vitro were treated with varying concentrations of UA. The change in apoptotic activity was detected by flow cytometry. The DNA damage index 8-hydroxy-deoxy-guanosine (8-OHdG) and mitochondrial function indices succinate dehydrogenase (SDH), cytochrome C oxidase (CCO), and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) were detected by enzyme assays. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation was confirmed by a dichloro-dihydro-fluorescein diacetate assay. We observed an increase in apoptotic activity, ROS accumulation, and 8-OHdG activity in hepatocytes treated with UA for extended periods, indicating DNA damage; specifically, we observed a significant increase in these activities 48, 72, and 96 h after UA addition, compared to those observed at 24 h (P < 0.05). Cells treated with 30 mg/dL UA for 96 h showed a peak in apoptotic activity. We also observed a significant decrease in ATP, SDH, and CCO activities with the increase in uric acid concentration over time. Cells treated with 30 mg/dL UA for 96 h showed the highest ATP levels, while SDH and CCO activities at 48, 72, and 96 h post-UA treatment were significantly lower than those at 24 h (P < 0.01). Moreover, cells treated with 30 mg/dL UA showed a 0.02 ± 0.02 and 0.15 ± 0.01 mmol/ mg/min decrease in SDH and CCO levels after 72 h. Therefore, we concluded that high concentrations of UA may induce oxidative stress in hepatocyte mitochondria, increasing ROS production and ultimately resulting in mitochondrial damage.

Exome sequencing identifies highly recurrent somatic GATA2 and CEBPA mutations in acute erythroid leukemia

Acute erythroid leukemia (AEL), characterized by a predominant erythroid proliferation, is a subtype of acute myelogenous leukemia. The genetic basis of AEL remains poorly defined. Through whole-exome sequencing, we identified high frequencies of mutations in CEBPA (32.7%), GATA2 (22.4%), NPM1 (15.5%), SETBP1 (12.1%) and U2AF1 (12.1%). Structure prediction analysis revealed that most of the GATA2 mutations were located at the DNA-binding N-terminal zinc-finger near the DNA-binding interface, suggesting that mutations could result in at least partial inactivation of GATA2 protein. On co-transfection of a GATA-responsive reporter construct together with plasmids expressing either GATA2 wild-type or GATA2 ZF1 mutants (P304H, L321P and R330X) in 293T cells, we found a reduced transcriptional activation in cells transfected with GATA2 mutants. To determine whether reduced GATA2 function is involved in leukemogenesis of AEL, we transfected 32D cells with GATA2 mutants and evaluated the impact of GATA2 mutations on erythroid differentiation. Our data revealed an increased expression of erythroid-related antigens Ter-119, β-globin and βh1-globin, as well as increased hemoglobin positivity in 32D cells transfected with GATA2 mutants compared with control cells. Our results suggest that the decline of GATA2 resulting from mutations contributes to the erythroid commitment, differentiation and the development of AEL.

Endoplasmic reticulum stress eIF2α-ATF4 pathway-mediated cyclooxygenase-2 induction regulates cadmium-induced autophagy in kidney

The heavy metal cadmium (Cd) is nephrotoxic. Recent studies show that autophagy plays an essential role in Cd-induced kidney injury. However, the mechanisms of Cd-induced kidney injury accompanied by autophagy are still obscure. In the present study, we first confirmed that Cd induced kidney damage and dysfunction, along with autophagy, both in vivo and in vitro. Then, we observed that cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and the eIF2α-ATF4 pathway of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress were induced by Cd in both kidney tissues and cultured cells. Further studies showed that inhibition of COX-2 with celecoxib or RNA interference (RNAi) inhibited the Cd-induced autophagy in kidney cells. In addition, blocking ER stress with 4-phenylbutyrate or RNAi partially counteracted COX-2 overexpression and autophagy induced by Cd, which suggested that ER stress was required for Cd-induced kidney autophagy. Significantly, our results showed that Cd activated ATF4 and induced its translocation to the nucleus. Knockdown of ATF4 inhibited Cd-induced COX-2 overexpression. While COX-2 overexpression is involved in renal dysfunction, there is no prior report on the role of COX-2 in autophagy regulation. The results of the current study suggest a novel molecular mechanism that the ER stress eIF2α-ATF4 pathway-mediated COX-2 overexpression contributes to Cd-induced kidney autophagy and injury. The present study implies that COX-2 may be a potential target for therapy against Cd-induced nephrotoxicity.

[Prevalence and characteristics of metabolic syndrome among hypertensive patients in Abidjan]

AIM

Assess prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in black Africans hypertensive patients.

POPULATION

Prospective survey from 3rd November 2014 to 12th June 2015, at Abidjan Heart Institute. Study was carried out among patients aged 18 years old, admitted to external consultation. Oral consent was obtained. MetS was established based on the definitions of the NCEP-ATP III 2005 and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF).

RESULTS

Over 1246 hypertensive patients, 404 were included in our study. The prevalence of MetS was 48.8% according to the criteria of the NCEP-ATP III 2005 and 51% according to the IDF. We noticed a female predominance (69% against 31%, P<0.001). Central obesity (49.5%) and low HDL-cholesterol (42.1%) were the factors defining the SM most predominant in our series. Low blood pressure control was higher in the presence of MetS (43.6%). The average number of antihypertensive prescribed drugs were significantly higher (2.2±0.8 against 2±0.8, P<0.001). MetS was significantly associated with obesity (BMI≥30kg/m(2) : 40.6% against 14%, P<0.001). Cardiovascular complications were observed in 54.8% of hypertensive patients in the presence of MetS.

CONCLUSION

MetS is a reality in sub-Saharan Africa. Adequate preventive measures are needed to limit its progression.

[Coronary artery aneurysms probably due to Kawasaki's disease]

We report the case of a young adult admitted to the Abidjan Heart Institute for coronary angiography to explore unstable angina. Coronary angiography showed multiple aneurysms which suggested sequelae of misdiagnosed Kawasaki disease.

Edible bird's nest enhances antioxidant capacity and increases lifespan in Drosophila Melanogaster

In this study, we aims to investigate the effects of edible bird's nest (EBN) on anti-aging efficacy. In order to investigate lifespan and mortality rate of flies, we treated flies with various doses of EBN. Besides, fecundity, water content and food are determined and heat-stress test is conducted after flies treating with different medium. Effects of EBN on total antioxidant activity (T-AOC), super-oxide dismutase activity (SOD), catalase activity (CAT), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were examined in drosophila melanogaster. Results indicated that flies in EBN treated group illustrated significantly lower mortality rates and longer median and maximum lifespan compared to control group (P<0.05). The fecundity in EBN-treated group was increased compared to control group. SOD levels and CAT activity were significantly increased, and MDA levels decreased in EBN-treated group compared to control group (P<0.01). In conclusion, EBN can extend lifespan, decrease mortality rate and increase survival rate in heat-stress test, and which can also promote SOD and CAT activity and reduce MDA levels. EBN is able to delay drosophila melanogaster aging, attributing to the increasing antioxidant enzyme activities and decreasing content of lipid peroxidation products in drosophila melanogaster.

[Prevalence and characteristics of acute coronary syndromes in a sub-Saharan Africa population]

AIM

To assess prevalence, characteristics and management of acute coronary syndromes in sub-Saharan Africa population.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Prospective survey from January, 2010 to December, 2013, carried out among patients aged 18 years old, admitted to intensive care unit of Abidjan Heart Institute for acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

RESULTS

Four hundred and twenty-five (425) patients were enrolled in this study. Prevalence of ACS was 13.5%. Mean age was 55.4±11 years. Clinical presentation was predominantly ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in 71.5% of subjects, non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) accounted for 28.5%. Two hundred and eighty patients (65.9%) were transferred by unsafe transportation. Among the 89 patients admitted within 12hours of the onset of symptoms, primary percutaneous coronary intervention was performed in 20 patients (22.5%), or 6.6% of STEMI as a whole. Twenty-five patients (8.2%) received fibrinolytic therapy with alteplase. In-hospital death rate was 10%.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of acute coronary syndromes is increasing in sub-Saharan Africa. Excessive delays of admission and limited technical facilities are the major difficulties of their management in our regions.

Comparison of ILK and ERP29 expressions in benign and malignant pancreatic lesions and their clinicopathological significances in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas

INTRODUCTION

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly malignant tumor of the pancreas with poor prognosis. The lack of understanding of the molecular mechanisms of PDAC and biomarkers for early diagnosis might be two of the reasons for the poor prognosis of PDAC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

ILK and ERP29 protein expressions in PDAC, peritumoral tissues, benign pancreatic lesions, and normal pancreatic tissues were measured by immunohistochemistry and the clinical and pathological significances of ILK and ERP29 in PDAC were analyzed.

RESULTS

The percentages of positive ILK and negative ERP29 expressions were significantly higher in PDAC tumors than in peritumoral tissues, benign pancreatic tissues, and normal pancreatic tissues (P < 0.01). Benign pancreatic lesions with positive ILK and negative ERP29 expressions exhibited dysplasia or intraepithelial neoplasia. The percentage of cases with positive ILK and negative ERP29 expressions was significantly lower in PDAC patients without lymph node metastasis and invasion, and having TNM stage I/II disease than in patients with lymph node metastasis, invasion, and TNM stage III/IV disease (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that positive ILK and negative ERP29 expressions were significantly associated with survival in PDAC patients (P < 0.001). Cox multivariate analysis revealed that positive ILK and negative ERP29 expressions were independent poor prognosis factors in PDAC patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Positive ILK and negative ERP29 expressions are associated with the progression of PDAC and poor prognosis in patients with PDAC.

A novel cyclometalated Ir(iii) complex based luminescence intensity and lifetime sensor for Cu2+

A novel green luminescent complex [Ir(dfppy)₂(bpy-BiDPA)]PF₆ was prepared for the reversible detection of Cu²⁺.

Label-Free and Sensitive Detection of BRCA1 and TB4 DNA Sequences with Water-Soluble Cationic Polythiophenes

A sensitive method for BRCA1 and TB4 DNA sequences detection using water-soluble cationic polythiophenes, poly(3-(1′-ethoxy-2′-N-methyl imidazole)thiophene) (PT) is presented. The fluorescence of PT could be dramatically quenched by the addition of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA; TB4 and BRCA1 sequences). The KSV (Stern–Volmer constant) for TB4 and BRCA1 DNA sequences are 1.46 × 108 and 3.28 × 108 M–1 respectively, and the limits of detection of these two sequences are 1.26 × 10–10 and 0.483 × 10–10 M respectively. The fluorescence of PT would recover to its initial intensity after the addition of complementary ssDNA, whereas sequences with one to three mismatched bases would not. The influences of buffer pH and concentration of NaCl were also investigated systemically in order to further improve the sensitivity. This assay can be completed in a short period of time without any further procedure. Hence, this sensitive, cost-effective, and rapid detection method for BRCA1 and TB4 DNA sequences may contribute to the clinical diagnosis of breast cancer gene mutations in the future.

Amplification of rabbit hepatocyte growth factor and detection of its expression in COS-7 cell line

We used RT-PCR, nested PCR to acquire the partial 5'- race fragment of rabbit HGF cDNA and the partial 3'- race fragment of rabbit HGF cDNA. Then, we used recombination PCR to acquire rabbit HGF successfully. Homology analysis was conducted among the sequence of RABHGF and known human and rat HGF by DNAStar. It was proved that high level of homology existed among the sequences of those three HGF genes. We used the acquired gene of RABHGF to construct its recombinant eukaryotic expression vector pcDNA3.1(+)-RABHGF (pRABHGF). The identification of the eukaryotic expression vector pRABHGF by PCR, restriction enzyme and sequencing analysis showed that rabbit HGF gene was correctly inserted into the vector. pRABHGF and pcDNA3.1(+) as controls were transfected into COS-7 cells by lipofectamine. It takes 24h-36h after transfection to detect the expression of RABHGF protein by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA). The proliferation of cos-7 cells were evaluated by MTT assay. The result displayed positive effect of RABHGF protein on the proliferation of COS-7 cells. This study lays the foundation for a new gene therapy method for ischemic heart disease.

Applying DNA barcodes for identification of economically important species in Brassicaceae

Brassicaceae is a large plant family of special interest; it includes many economically important crops, herbs, and ornamentals, as well as model organisms. The taxonomy of the Brassicaceae has long been controversial because of the poorly delimited generic boundaries and artificially circumscribed tribes. Despite great effort to delimitate species and reconstruct the phylogeny of Brassicaceae, little research has been carried out to investigate the applicability and effectiveness of different DNA regions as barcodes - a recent aid for taxonomic identification - to identify economically important species in Brassicaceae. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility of five intensively recommended regions [rbcL, matK, trnH-psbA, internal transcribed spacer (ITS), ITS2] as candidate DNA barcodes to discriminate economic species of Brassicaceae in China and try to establish a new digital identification method for economic plants of Brassicaceae. All sequences of 58 samples from 27 economic species (Brassicaceae) in China were assessed in the success rates of PCR amplifications, intra- and inter-specific divergence, DNA barcoding gaps, and efficiency of identification. Compared with other markers, ITS showed superiority in species discrimination with an accurate identification of 67.2% at the species level. Consequently, as one of the most popular phylogenetic markers, our study indicated that ITS was a powerful but not perfect barcode for Brassicaceae identification. We further discuss the discrimination power of different loci due to inheritance pattern, polyploidization and hybridization in species-specific evolution. Further screening of other nuclear genes related to species isolation as plant barcode candidates is also proposed.

Serology, virulence, antimicrobial susceptibility and molecular characteristics of clinical Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains circulating in southeastern China from 2009 to 2013

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a leading cause of food-borne diarrhoea in coastal countries. Although V. parahaemolyticus cases have been reported since 1950, they have been poorly documented. From July 2009 to June 2013, we collected 6951 faecal specimens for pathogen detection; V. parahaemolyticus strains were isolated from 563 specimens (8.1%). We then analysed the characteristics of the 501 V. parahaemolyticus strains that were isolated as the sole pathogen. Twenty-one serotypes were identified among these strains; O3:K6 was the most common serotype (65.1%), followed by O4:K8, O4:K68 and O1:K36. One strain of the O4:K18 serotype was isolated from clinical patients for the first time. Pandemic O3:K6 clones were predominant and accounted for 69.1% of all of the pandemic strains. This is the first report of one strain expressing the O3:K8 serotype with a pandemic genotype. The presence of the haemolysin gene tdh (93.0%) was the key characteristic of the virulent strains; however, a few strains carried the trh gene. We also confirmed the presence of the type III secretion system 2 (T3SS2) genes in all of the pathogenic strains. Subsequent multilocus sequence typing split the isolates into 16 sequence types (STs), with ST3 and ST88 as the most prevalent in southeastern China. Most isolates were sensitive to common antimicrobial agents, apart from ampicillin. However, the resistance rate to ampicillin has apparently increased in this area. In conclusion, our results indicate that pandemic O3:K6 V. parahaemolyticus isolates are predominant in southeastern China, and additional surveillance should be conducted to facilitate control of the transmission of this pathogen.

Biological significance of miR-126 expression in atrial fibrillation and heart failure

We investigated the biological significance of microRNA-126 (miR-126) expression in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and/or heart failure (HF) to examine the possible mechanism of miR-126-dependent AF and development of HF. A total of 103 patients were divided into three groups: AF group (18 men and 17 women, mean age: 65.62±12.72 years), HF group (17 men and 15 women, mean age: 63.95±19.71 years), and HF-AF group (20 men and 16 women, mean age: 66.56±14.37 years). Quantitative real-time PCR was used to measure relative miR-126 expression as calculated by the 2-ΔΔCt method. miR-126 was frequently downregulated in the 3 patient groups compared with controls. This reduction was significantly lower in permanent and persistent AF patients than in those with paroxysmal AF (P<0.05, t-test). Moreover, miR-126 expression was markedly lower in the HF-AF group compared with the AF and HF groups. The 3 patient groups had higher N-terminal prohormone brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels, lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), larger left atrial diameter, and higher cardiothoracic ratio compared with controls. There were significant differences in NT-proBNP levels and LVEF among the AF, HF, and HF-AF groups. Pearson correlation analysis showed that relative miR-126 expression was positively associated with LVEF, logarithm of NT-proBNP, left atrial diameter, cardiothoracic ratio, and age in HF-AF patients. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that miR-126 expression was positively correlated with LVEF, but negatively correlated with the logarithm of NT-pro BNP and the cardiothoracic ratio (all P<0.05). Serum miR-126 levels could serve as a potential candidate biomarker for evaluating the severity of AF and HF. However, to confirm these results, future studies with a larger and diverse patient population are necessary.

Inhibitory effect of group II mGluR agonist 2R, 4R-APDC on cell proliferation in dentate gyrus in rats with epileptic seizure

OBJECTIVE

Epileptic seizure can increase the cell proliferation in dentate gyrus in brain, but the mechanism remains unclear.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, using systemic bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) to label the dividing cells, the inhibitory effect of group II metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) agonist 2R, 4R-4-aminopyrrolidine-2, 4-dicarboxylate (2R, 4R-APDC) on cell proliferation in dentate gyrus in rats after pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus (SE) was investigated.

RESULTS

Results found that, 2R, 4R-APDC could significantly inhibit the behavioral seizure and block the seizure-induced increase of BrdU-positive cells in dentate gyrus, especially in hilus. Double-label immunofluorescence staining showed that, 2R, 4R-APDC did not affect the ability of newborn cells to differentiate into neurons or astrocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

2R, 4R-APDC not only has anticonvulsant effect on adult rats with pilocarpine-induced SE, but also has neuroprotective effect by reducing the abnormal regeneration of nerves.

Multiple optical stimulation to neuron using Si opto-neural probe with multiple optical waveguides and metal-cover for optogenetics

We have developed a Si opt-neural probe with multiple waveguides and metal cover for highly accurate optical stimulation. This neural probe had 16 recording sites, three optical waveguides, and metal cover for suppressing light leakage. We evaluated electrochemical properties of the recording sites, and confirmed that the neural probe had suitable characteristics for neural recording. We also demonstrated the optical stimulation to the neurons expressing ChR2 using our probe. As a result, we succeeded multisite optical stimulation, and observed that no light leakage from the optical waveguides because of the metal cover. From in vivo experiments, we successfully recorded optically modulated local field potential using the fabricated Si neural probe with optical waveguides. Moreover, we applied current source density analysis to the recorded LFPs. As a result, we confirmed that light induced membrane current sink in locally stimulated area. Our Si opto-neural probe with multiple optical waveguides and metal-cover is one of the most versatile tools for optogenetics.

[Self-medication among black African hypertensive patients: Factors and consequences]

INTRODUCTION

Self-medication practice is under-evaluated among black African hypertensive patients.

AIM

To assess the level of self-medication among black African hypertensive patients and to determine the factors favoring this practice and their consequences.

METHODS

Prospective study during a 3-month period including 612 hypertensive patients followed in Abidjan cardiology institute.

RESULTS

Mean age was 55.1. The patients had a self-medication use in 60.1% of cases. Medicinal plants and derived products were commonly involved. Self-medication use reasons were: influence of relatives (89.8%) and the fear of antihypertensive drugs adverses effects (54.9%). Multivariate analysis shows that factors of self-medication were age (56.6 years vs. 50.3 years, P<0.001), income less than 762 euros/month (88% vs. 75.4%; OR=2.73; 95% CI: 1.62-4.6; P<0,0001), obesity (70.4% vs. 35.6%; OR=1.24; 95% CI: 0.75-1.15; P=0.037), dyslipidemia (40.8% vs. 27.9%; OR=6.72; 95% CI: 0.57-2.13; P=0.043), antihypertensive association therapy (61.7% vs. 51.4%; OR=2.27; 95% CI: 0.25-0.97; P=0.037). Poor control of high blood pressure (HBP) was a consequence of self-medication (6.5% vs. 47.1%; OR=10.27; 95% CI: 4.65-56.4; P=0.034), repercussions of HBP on major organ (75% vs. 17.2%; OR=12.9; 95% CI: 8.5-19.6; P=0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Self-medication is a common practice in African hypertensive patients. It has many consequences.

Serum high mobility group box protein 1 as a clinical marker for ovarian cancer

The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical value of serum high mobility group box chromosomal protein 1 (HMGB1) in ovarian cancer and analyze the correlation between HMGB1 and ovarian cancer clinicopathologic outcomes.A total of 105 patients with diagnosed epithelial ovarian cancer, 46 patients with ovarian benign disease and 33 healthy volunteers were enrolled from January 2011 through January 2013. Serum HMGB1 levels were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.The mean value of serum HMGB1 levels in ovarian cancer patients (78.18±54.87ng/ml) was significantly higher than those in benign patients (33.98±9.97ng/ml) and healthy control (26.71±7.99ng/ml, p < 0.0001), respectively. The serum HMGB1 levels were 40.33±6.50ng/ml, 61.16±20.15ng/ml, 81.81±51.15ng/ml and 119.48±84.28ng/ml in patients with TNM stage I, II, III, and IV, respectively (p < 0.0001). There were 81 of the 105 ovarian cancer patients obtained complete remission, the serum HMGB1 levels before treatment(71.99±42.49ng/ml) were much higher than that at remission stage(42.10±15.48ng/ml) (p < 0.0001). During our investigating period, 28 ovarian cancer patients underwent recurrence, the serum HMGB1 levels were 75.54±39.50ng/ml in these recurrent ovarian cancer patients compared to 42.04±10.68ng/ml in non-recurrent ovarian cancer (p < 0.0001). None of the remission or recurrent patients came from benign ovarian tumor group.Our study suggests that HMGB1 may be a useful clinical marker for evaluating progression and predicting prognosis of ovarian carcinoma. Targeting HMGB1 production or release might have potential approaches for ovarian carcinoma treatment.

Precision Measurement of the p(e,e^{'}p)π^{0} Reaction at Threshold

New results are reported from a measurement of π^{0} electroproduction near threshold using the p(e,e^{'}p)π^{0} reaction. The experiment was designed to determine precisely the energy dependence of s- and p-wave electromagnetic multipoles as a stringent test of the predictions of chiral perturbation theory (ChPT). The data were taken with an electron beam energy of 1192 MeV using a two-spectrometer setup in Hall A at Jefferson Lab. For the first time, complete coverage of the ϕ_{π}^{*} and θ_{π}^{*} angles in the pπ^{0} center of mass was obtained for invariant energies above threshold from 0.5 up to 15 MeV. The 4-momentum transfer Q^{2} coverage ranges from 0.05 to 0.155 (GeV/c)^{2} in fine steps. A simple phenomenological analysis of our data shows strong disagreement with p-wave predictions from ChPT for Q^{2}>0.07 (GeV/c)^{2}, while the s-wave predictions are in reasonable agreement.

[Presumption of sleep apnea in a black African hypertensive population: Importance of the Epworth sleepiness scale in the diagnostic approach]

INTRODUCTION

Sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) is very little described in the hypertensive black African.

PURPOSE

To screen sleep apnea syndrome using the rating scale of Epworth daytime sleepiness, and to investigate the determinant factors and to infer therapeutic consequences.

METHOD

This is a retrospective and prospective study with descriptive and analytical purpose that focused on 200 hypertensive outpatients of the Cardiology Institute of Abidjan. The primary endpoint studied was the SAS. The diagnostic approach of SAS was performed using the rating scale of Epworth daytime sleepiness.

RESULTS

The prevalence of sleep apnea was 45%. The average age of sleep apnea carriers was 56.1 years, with a male predominance (60%). The determinant factors of sleep apnea syndrome were male gender (60% versus 40%, P=0.021), obesity (77.8% versus 62.7%, P<0.0001), diabetes (26.7% versus 15.5%, P=0.5) and dyslipidemia (54.4% versus 27.3%, P=0.0009). Life in urban areas, occupation and smoking were not correlated with SAS in our series. The control of hypertension was better in non-apneic patients compared to apneic patients (63.6% versus 38.9%, P=0.04). The visceral impact of hypertension in apneic patients was highly significant (77.8% versus 41.7%, P=0.014). Therapeutically, it was noted the preferential prescription of combination therapy in apneic patients compared to non-apneic patients (82.3% versus 74.4%).

Theoretical and experimental investigations on mono-substituted and multi-substituted functional polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes

Theoretical and experimental investigations on substituted functional polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes.