Evolution and characterisation of the AhRAF4 NB-ARC gene family induced by Aspergillus flavus inoculation and abiotic stresses in peanut

Aflatoxin contamination in peanut is a serious food safety issue to human health around the world. Finding disease resistance genes is a key strategy for genetic improvement in breeding to deal with this issue. We identified an Aspergillus flavus-induced NBS-LRR gene, AhRAF4, using a microarray-based approach. By comparison of 23 sequences from three species using phytogenetics, protein secondary structure and three-dimensional structural analyses, AhRAF4 was revealed to be derived from Arachis duranensis by recombination, and has newly evolved into a family of several members, characterised by duplications and point mutations. However, the members of the family descended from A. ipaensis were lost following tetraploidisation. AhRAF4 was slightly up-regulated by low temperature, drought, salicylic acid and ethylene, but down-regulated by methyl jasmonate. The distinct responses upon As. flavus inoculation and the differential reactions between resistant and susceptible varieties indicate that AhRAF4 might play a role in defence responses. Temporal and spatial expression and the phenotype of transformed protoplasts suggest that AhRAF4 may also be associated with pericarp development. Because tetraploid cultivated peanuts are vulnerable to many pathogens, an exploration of R-genes may provide an effective method for genetic improvement of peanut cultivars.

Influence of hormone therapy or C. foetida extract on breast tenderness in postmenopausal women

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the prevalence of breast tenderness in a population treated with menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) or Cimicifuga foetida extract.

METHODS

A prospective, randomized, controlled trial was conducted. Ninety-six postmenopausal women were randomly assigned to three groups: group A, 1 mg estradiol valerate daily plus 4 mg medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), days 19-30; group B, 1 mg estradiol valerate daily plus 100 mg micronized progesterone (MP), days 19-30; group C, 100 mg C. foetida extract daily. Breast tenderness was evaluated daily for 12 months.

RESULTS

Seventy-three patients completed the study. Group A had the highest prevalence of breast tenderness, while group C had the lowest. More than 50% of all participants reported no symptoms throughout the period. The participants in group A experienced a sharp increase in breast tenderness after treatment, but decreased after 1 month. No significant decline was found in the duration of pain in group B. The patients in group C reported no remarkable changes after 1 month. Compared to estrogen only, estrogen plus MPA/MP led to a higher incidence of prolonged breast symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to MHT groups, C. foetida extract had the lowest prevalence of breast tenderness. Most participants experienced mild or no symptoms.

[Effect of low-dose or standard-dose conjugated equine estrogen combined with different progesterone on bone density in menopause syndrome women]

Objective: To explore the effect of low-dose or standard-dose conjugated equine estrogen (CEE) combined with natural progesterone or dydrogesterone on bone density in menopause syndrome women. Methods: Totally 123 patients with menopause syndrome were recruited and randomly assigned to 3 treatment groups: group A (low-dose CEE+progesterone) , group B (standard-dose CEE+progesterone) , group C (standard-dose CEE+dydrogesterone) . Using continuous sequential regimen, the duration of intervention was 12 cycles. The bone mineral density of lumbar 2-4 and neck of femur, the bone metabolic markers, the level of FSH and estradiol were examined just before the drug administration and 12 months after the beginning of experiment. Results: There were 107 cases completed the one year trial. (1) Bone density: after 12 cycles of treatment, there was no significant change in bone density in group A (P>0.05) ; lumbar vertebrae of group B and C increased significantly, at 3.0% and 2.1%respectively (all P<0.05) . The bone density of left femoral neck of group C significantly increased by 2.9% (P=0.029) . There was no significant difference among the treatment groups at the beginning of experiment (P>0.05) . (2) Bone metabolic markers: after 12 cycles of treatment, the levels of calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, Ca/Cr decreased significantly, the difference were statistically significant (all P<0.05) . There was no significant difference among the treatment groups at the beginning of experiment (P>0.05) . (3) Levels of FSH and estradiol: after 12 cycles of treatment, the levels of FSH in three groups were decreased significantly (all P<0.01) . The levels of estradiol in three groups were increased significantly (all P<0.01) . There was no significant difference among the treatment groups at the beginning of experiment (P>0.05) . Conclusions: Both low-dose and standard-dose menopause hormone therapy (MHT) could elevate the level of estradiol, reduce bone turnover, prevent bone loss of postmenopausal women effectively. The standard dose of MHT could also increase the density of vertebrae and femoral neck, and generate more clinical benefits.

Manipulation of intestinal dysbiosis by a bacterial mixture ameliorates loperamide-induced constipation in rats

Constipation has a significant influence on quality of life. Patients with constipation have slow waves in their gastrointestinal smooth muscles and less faecal water contents, which are closely associated with down-regulation of the interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) in the gastrointestinal muscles and the aquaporin protein AQP3 expressed in colon epithelial cells. Recent studies supported that patients with constipation have altered intestinal microbial structures compared with healthy controls. Intestinal dysbiosis might be one possible pathophysiological mechanism causing constipation. Bacterial strains, such as Lactobacillus spp., have shown many beneficial effects on the amelioration of constipation. However, few studies reported the structural changes of intestinal microbiota post-intervention of probiotics. In this study, a bacterial mixture was administrated to rats with loperamide-induced constipation. Effects of the bacterial mixture on small intestine transit (SIT), faecal water content, and the intestinal microbiome in rats were evaluated. Meanwhile, we investigated several factors involved in signalling pathways that regulate function of ICC and expression of AQP3 to discuss the possible underlying molecular mechanisms. Intervention of the bacterial mixture improved SIT and faecal water content in constipated rats. The up-regulation of C-kit/SP signalling pathways in ICC and AQP3 significantly contributed to improvements. These changes were closely associated with the manipulation of intestinal dysbiosis in constipated rats. Furthermore, our results revealed the important role of intestinal microbiota in affecting gut motility through regulation of serotonin biosynthesis. This monoamine neurotransmitter, secreted from enterochromaffin cells, up-regulated both substance P/neurokinin 1 receptors pathway of ICC and the expression of AQP3 in intestinal epithelial cells. Our study suggested that the disrupted microbiome in patients could be a potential therapeutic target for the improvement of constipation.

Associations of Plasma Amino Acid and Acylcarnitine Profiles with Incident Reduced Glomerular Filtration Rate

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Metabolomics is instrumental in identifying novel biomarkers of kidney function to aid in the prevention and management of CKD. However, data linking the metabolome to incident eGFR are sparse, particularly in Asian populations with different genetic backgrounds and environmental exposures. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the associations of amino acid and acylcarnitine profiles with change in eGFR in a Chinese cohort.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

This study included 1765 community-living Chinese adults aged 50-70 years with baseline eGFR≥60 ml/min per 1.73 m2. At baseline, 22 amino acids and 34 acylcarnitines in plasma were quantified by gas or liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Annual rate of change in eGFR was calculated, and incident eGFR decline was defined as eGFR<60 ml/min per 1.73 m2 by the end of 6 years of follow-up.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) unadjusted annual change in eGFR was 2.2±2.0 ml/min per 1.73 m2 and the incidence of reduced eGFR was 16%. After Bonferroni correction, 13 of 56 metabolites were significantly associated with annual eGFR change. After multivariable adjustment of baseline covariates, including baseline eGFR, seven of the 13 metabolites, including cysteine, long-chain acylcarnitines (C14:1OH, C18, C18:2, and C20:4), and other acylcarnitines (C3DC and C10), were significantly associated with incident reduced eGFR (relative risks ranged from 1.16 to 1.25 per SD increment of metabolites; P<3.8E-03 after Bonferroni correction of multiple testing of the 13 metabolites). Moreover, principal component analysis identified two factors, consisting of cysteine and long-chain acylcarnitines, respectively, that were associated with incident reduced eGFR.

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated plasma levels of cysteine and a panel of acylcarnitines were associated with a higher incidence of reduced eGFR in Chinese adults, independent of baseline eGFR and other conventional risk factors.

[Stratified sampling survey of major human parasitic diseases in Henan province]

Objective: To understand the prevalence of major human parasitic diseases and related factors in Henan province. Methods: This stratified sampling survey was carried out according to the requirement of national survey protocol of major human parasitic diseases, 2014-2015. The prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths infection, taeniasis and intestinal protozoiasis were surveyed in 104 sites selected from 35 counties (districts) and the prevalence of clonorchiasis was surveyed in 62 sites selected from 37 townships. In each survey spot, 250 persons were surveyed. A total of 26 866 persons and 15 893 persons were surveyed. Modified Kato-Katz thick smear was used to detect the eggs of intestinal helminthes. Tube fecal culture was used to identify the species of hookworm. The Enterobius eggs were detected in children aged 3 to 6 years by using adhesive tape. The cyst and trophozoite of intestinal protozoa were examined with physiological saline direct smear method and iodine stain method. Results: The overall infestation rate of intestinal parasites was2.02% in Henan, and the worm infection rate was higher than protozoa infection rate. Fourteen kinds of intestinal parasites were found, including nematode (5 species), trematode (2 species), and protozoan (7 species). The infection rate of Enterobius vermicularis was highest, and Qinba Mountain ecological area had the highest infestation rate of intestinal parasites in 4 ecological areas of Henan. There was no significant difference in intestinal parasite infection rate between males and females (χ(2)=3.630, P=0.057), and the differences in intestinal parasite infection rate among different age groups had significance (χ(2)=124.783, P=0.000 1). The infection rate reached the peak in age group ≤9 years and the major parasite was Enterobius vermicularis. Furthermore the overall human infection rate of parasite showed a downward trend with the increase of educational level of the people (χ(2)=70.969, P=0.000 1), the differences had significance (χ(2)=120.118, P=0.000 1). For different populations, the infection rate of intestinal parasites was highest among preschool children. The infection of intestinal helminth was mainly mild, only 2 severe cases were detected. The infection rate of Clonorchis sinensis in urban residents was only 0.006%. Logistic regression analysis showed that being preschool children (χ(2)=15.765, P=0.000 1) and drinking well water (χ(2)=45.589, P=0.000 1) were the risk factors for intestinal parasite infection, and annual income per capita of farmers was the protective factor against intestinal parasite infection. The infection rates of protozoa and intestinal parasites decreased sharply compared with the results of previous two surveys, and the rate of intestinal helminth infection also dropped sharply compared with the second survey. The numbers of protozoa, helminth and intestinal parasites detected in this survey were all less than the numbers found in the previous two surveys. Conclusions: Compared the results of three surveys in Henan, the infection rate of protozoa and intestinal parasites showed a downward trend. The prevention and treatment of Enterobius vermicularis infection in children should be the key point of parasitic disease control in the future.

Integrated analysis of long noncoding RNA-associated competing endogenous RNA network in periodontitis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play critical and complex roles in regulating various biological processes of periodontitis. This bioinformatic study aims to construct a putative competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network by integrating lncRNA, miRNA and mRNA expression, based on high-throughput RNA sequencing and microarray data about periodontitis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Data from 1 miRNA and 3 mRNA expression profiles were obtained to construct the lncRNA-associated ceRNA network. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis and pathway analysis were performed using the Gene Ontology website and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes. A protein-protein interaction network was constructed based on the Search Tool for the retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins. Transcription factors (TFs) of differentially expressed genes were identified based on TRANSFAC database and then a regulatory network was constructed.

RESULTS

Through constructing the dysregulated ceRNA network, 6 genes (HSPA4L, PANK3, YOD1, CTNNBIP1, EVI2B, ITGAL) and 3 miRNAs (miR-125a-3p, miR-200a, miR-142-3p) were detected. Three lncRNAs (MALAT1, TUG1, FGD5-AS1) were found to target both miR-125a-3p and miR-142-3p in this ceRNA network. Protein-protein interaction network analysis identified several hub genes, including VCAM1, ITGA4, UBC, LYN and SSX2IP. Three pathways (cytokine-cytokine receptor, cell adhesion molecules, chemokine signaling pathway) were identified to be overlapping results with the previous bioinformatics studies in periodontitis. Moreover, 2 TFs including FOS and EGR were identified to be involved in the regulatory network of the differentially expressed genes-TFs in periodontitis.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that 6 mRNAs (HSPA4L, PANK3, YOD1, CTNNBIP1, EVI2B, ITGAL), 3 miRNAs (hsa-miR-125a-3p, hsa-miR-200a, hsa-miR-142-3p) and 3 lncRNAs (MALAT1, TUG1, FGD5-AS1) might be involved in the lncRNA-associated ceRNA network of periodontitis. This study sought to illuminate further the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms of periodontitis through constructing an lncRNA-associated ceRNA network.

Simultaneous induction of HSP70 expression, and degranulation, in IgE/Ag-stimulated or extracellular HSP70-stimulated mast cells

BACKGROUND

In mast cells, induction of HSP70 expression during antigen stimulation has not been reported.

METHODS

Mouse bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMC) were stimulated with IgE/Ag or HSP70. Induction of HSP70 expression and signaling protein phosphorylation were evaluated by immunoblotting.

RESULTS

HSP70 expression is induced in BMMC at an early stage of IgE/Ag-dependent stimulation, some of which is released from the cells in a granule-associated form. Induction of HSP70 expression was also observed with an IgE/Ag-stimulated human basophilic cell line, indicating that the phenomenon is not restricted to mouse BMMC. The induction of HSP70 expression, and its release, followed a similar time course to that of degranulation. Released HSP70 seems to be responsible for degranulation and production of eicosanoids, at least in part, because a neutralizing anti-HSP70 antibody mitigated these activities and because exogenous HSP70 not only induced immediate degranulation followed by autocrine HSP70 expression but also enhanced degranulation in IgE/Ag-stimulated BMMC. Extracellular HSP70 was found to induce phosphorylation of linker for activation of T cells (LAT) and a series of downstream signaling molecules in BMMC. We further found that Fyn, Lyn, and spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk), which are known to concern LAT phosphorylation in IgE/Ag-stimulated BMMC, were not phosphorylated in HSP70-stimulated BMMC, whereas lymphocyte-specific protein tyrosine kinase (Lck) was phosphorylated.

CONCLUSION

FcεRI stimulation in BMMC and basophils induces HSP70 expression and its release. Extracellular HSP70 induces degranulation and mediator release via phosphorylation of LAT.

Absence of hybridization with the wild-type and mutant rpoB probes in the Genotype MTBDRplus assay detects 'disputed' rifampicin mutations

OBJECTIVE

Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates that fail to hybridize to at least one rpoB wild-type or any mutation probe on the Genotype MTBDRplus strip are assumed to be rifampicin-resistant. However, the precise mutation(s) are unknown. We sought to identify the mutations in isolates with such hybridization patterns and determine if the mutations are associated with resistance to rifampicin.

METHODS

In this study, 275 M. tuberculosis isolates were screened with the Genotype MTBDRplus assay to identify isolates with the hybridization pattern. These isolates were sequenced and their minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) determined using the Bactec MGIT 960 system.

RESULTS

Among the 275 isolates tested, 15 (6%) isolates with the hybridization pattern were identified. Sequencing showed that failure to hybridize to rpoB wild-type probes resulted from the presence of 'disputed' rifampicin mutations, which are mutations not always associated with a rifampicin-resistant phenotype. All, except 3/15, isolates had a rifampicin-resistant phenotype (MIC > 1 μg/mL). One of the three isolates with a rifampicin-susceptible phenotype had the same mutation at position 526 (His526Leu) as another isolate that had a rifampicin-resistant phenotype.

CONCLUSION

The recommendation of the Genotype MTBDRplus assay to assume rifampicin resistance based solely on failure to hybridize to rpoB wild-type probe allows the identification of important RIF-resistant isolates. About 20% (3/15) of such isolates could be missed by relying only on the standard MGIT 960 DST assay for drug susceptibility testing.

Efficacy and safety evaluation of Cimicifuga foetida extract in menopausal women

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of long-term treatment with Cimicifuga foetida extract in menopausal women.

METHODS

A prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial was conducted. A total of 96 early postmenopausal women were randomly assigned to three groups: group A received 1 mg estradiol valerate daily plus 4 mg medroxyprogesterone acetate on days 19-30; group B received 1 mg estradiol valerate daily plus 100 mg micronized progesterone on days 19-30; group C received 100 mg C. foetida extract daily. The efficacy was evaluated. Safety parameters were recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 81 patients completed the treatment and follow-up visit. The modified Kupperman Menopausal Index scores decreased after 3 months in all groups. No significant changes were observed in the liver, renal function and components of metabolic syndrome in group C (p > 0.05). There were no significant differences in the incidences of metabolic syndrome among the three groups (p > 0.05). After 24 months, the endometrial thickness increased significantly in group B (p = 0.014), but not in the C. foetida extract group (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

C. foetida extract is safe and effective for the treatment of menopausal symptoms in postmenopausal women.

Puerarin attenuates diabetic kidney injury through the suppression of NOX4 expression in podocytes

Radix puerariae, a traditional Chinese herbal medication, has been used to treat patients with diabetic nephropathy (DN). Several studies demonstrated that puerarin, the active compound of radix puerariae, reduces diabetic injury in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rodent models. However, as STZ injection alone results in mild kidney injury, the therapeutic benefit afforded by puerarin in DN remained inconclusive. Thus we sought to clarify the role of puerarin by employing an accelerated DN model, STZ-induced diabetes in the endothelial nitric oxide synthase-null (eNOS-/-) mice. Puerarin treatment of diabetic eNOS-/- mice significantly attenuated albuminuria and diabetic kidney injury, which were associated with reduced oxidative stress and reduced NAPDH oxidase 4 (NOX4) in glomeruli of diabetic eNOS-/- mice. Puerarin treatment of murine podocytes culture in high glucose conditions led to reduced superoxide production and NOX4 expression. We further determined that that puerarin treatment increased both mRNA and protein levels of SIRT1 in podocytes and that puerarin led to SIRT1-mediated deacetylation of NF-κB and suppression of NOX4 expression. Our findings confirm the renoprotective effects of puerarin in an experimental model of advanced DN and provide a molecular mechanism by which puerarin exerts the anti-oxidative effects in podocytes  in the diabetic milieu.

[Probability of premature mortality caused by non-communicable diseases in Beijing, 2010-2015]

Objective: To understand the probability of premature mortality caused by non-communicable diseases (NCD) in Beijing from 2010 to 2015. Methods: The data of deaths from Beijing vital registration system were used to analyze age-standardized NCD mortality rates, proportion of NCD deaths in age group <70 years and premature NCD mortality. Results: NCD deaths accounted for 90% of the total deaths in Beijing. Age-standardized NCD death rate decreased from 332.43/100 000 in 2010 to 280.02/100 000 in 2015. Meanwhile, the probability of deaths from four NCDs between in age group 30-70 years (premature NCD mortality) decreased from 12.81% to 11.11% in Beijing. The premature mortality of four NCDs in men was 14.63%, and compared with 2015 baseline, it would decrease by 16.4% to reach 2025 goal (12.23%), and the probability of premature mortality four NCDs in women was 7.54%, and compared with 2015 baseline, it would decrease by 6.8% to reach the 2025 goal (7.03%). People living in suburb areas had a higher probability of premature NCD mortality (13.67%) than those living in urban areas (9.72%) in Beijing in 2015. Conclusions: The premature NCD mortality was much higher in men than in women in Beijing. More attention should be paid to the control of risk factors for NCD premature deaths, especially in men and in suburb residents, to reach the 25×25 goal.

DNA methylation and expression of imprinted genes are associated with the viability of different sexual cloned buffaloes

The DNA methylation of imprinted genes is an important way to regulate epigenetic reprogramming of donor cells in somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). However, the effects of sexual distinction on the DNA methylation of imprinted genes in cloned animals have seldom been reported. In this study, we analysed the DNA methylation status of three imprinted genes (Xist, IGF2 and H19) from liveborn cloned buffaloes (L group, three female and three male), stillborn cloned buffaloes (S group, three female and three male) and natural reproduction buffaloes (N group, three female and three male), using bisulphite sequencing polymerase chain reaction (BS-PCR). The expression levels of these imprinted genes were also investigated by quantitative real-time PCR (QRT-PCR). The DNA methylation levels of H19 were not significantly different among the groups. However, the Xist in female and IGF2 in male of the S group were found to be significantly hypomethylated in comparison with the same sexual buffaloes in L group and N group (p < .05). Furthermore, the expression levels of Xist, IGF2 and H19 in the stillborn female cloned buffaloes of S group were significantly higher than that of the female buffaloes in the L group and N group (p < .05). The expression levels of IGF2 and H19 in the stillborn male cloned buffaloes in the S group were significantly higher than that of the male buffaloes in the L group and N group (p < .05). These results indicate that Xist may be associated with the viability of female cloned buffaloes, and IGF2 may also be related to the viability of male cloned buffaloes.

Growth performance, rumen fermentation, bacteria composition, and gene expressions involved in intracellular pH regulation of rumen epithelium in finishing Hu lambs differing in residual feed intake phenotype

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of residual feed intake (RFI) on rumen function in finishing lambs. A total of 60 male Hu lambs (average initial BW = 25.2 ± 2.5kg) were used and were offered a pelleted high-concentrate diet, of which the forage to concentrate ratio was 25:75. Individual feed intake was recorded over a period of 42 d, then 10 lambs with the lowest RFI and the highest RFI were selected, respectively. The rumen fluid used for fermentation variables and relative abundance of bacteria measurement was obtained on d 10 and 20 after RFI measurement. At the end of this experiment, the selected lambs were slaughtered and rumen epithelium and liver tissues were collected for RNA extraction. Low-RFI lambs had lower ( < 0.01) DMI and greater ( < 0.05) G:F than the high-RFI ones, while the RFI groups did not differ in ADG and BW ( > 0.05). Additionally, RFI was positively ( = 0.57; < 0.01) correlated with DMI and negatively ( = -0.53; < 0.05) correlated with G:F. Total VFA and individual VFA decreased ( < 0.05) over time. The concentrations of total VFA, acetate, valerate, isobutyrate, isovalerate, and rumen pH ( > 0.05) were not affected by RFI classification. Nonetheless, low-RFI group lambs had a greater ( < 0.05) concentration of propionate, a lower ( < 0.05) concentration of butyrate, and a lower ( < 0.05) acetate to propionate ratio compared with the high-RFI group. There was a significant ( < 0.05) effect of RFI on the relative abundance of and . The relative abundance of , , and decreased ( < 0.05) over time in high-RFI group. And the relative abundance of in high-RFI group was greater ( < 0.05) than its low-RFI counterpart. Furthermore, RFI had no effect ( > 0.05) on gene expression associated with intracellular pH regulation (, , , , , , , and ) in rumen epithelium and β-hydroxybutyrate metabolism () in both rumen epithelium and liver tissues. In conclusion, even though low-RFI lambs had lower DMI, however, the number of was lower. Additionally, there was no difference in gene expressions level associated with intracellular pH regulation in rumen epithelium between RFI groups.

A regulatory circuit HP1γ/miR-451a/c-Myc promotes prostate cancer progression

Heterochromatin protein 1γ (HP1γ) has been implicated in carcinogenesis of various cancer types. However, the role of HP1γ in prostate cancer (PCa) progression and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown. We found that HP1γ is upregulated in PCa and elevated levels of HP1γ in PCa predict poor outcome. In addition, depletion of HP1γ in PCa cells not only repressed proliferation and induced apoptosis but also impaired tumorigenicity. We also found that c-Myc was capable of upregulating HP1γ by directly binding to the E-box element in the first intron of HP1γ gene, and the upregulated HP1γ, in turn, repressed the expression of miR-451a by enhancing H3K9 methylation at the promoter region of miR-451a. Furthermore, reduction of miR-451a significantly reversed HP1γ loss-induced PCa cell apoptosis, whereas miR-451a overexpression repressed cell survival by targeting and downregulating c-Myc. The association among c-Myc, HP1γ and miR-451a was further confirmed in human clinical samples. Therefore, we propose that an HP1γ/miR-451a/c-Myc regulatory circuitry exists in PCa cells and this circuit has a crucial role in PCa progression.

[Effect of interferon-γ on airway inflammation following respiratory syncytial virus reinfection in mice]

Objective: To identify the role of interferon (IFN)-γ during respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) re-infection in mice. Method: Female wild type C57BL/6 mice and IFN-γ knockout mice (IFN-γ(-/-) mice) at the age of 6 to 8 weeks were randomly divided into two groups: control group and RSV group, according to random number table.Each group was further divided into primary infection group and re-infection group.There were 8 groups.Mice were sacrificed on days 5, 7, 14 to collect samples.There were 5-8 mice in each group at each time point.And experiment was repeated twice. Leukocytes in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were counted, left lung tissues were stained with HE and histopathological scoring (HPS) was performed.The concentrations of IFN-γ, IL-5, IL-13 were determined with ELISA.T test or single factor analysis of variance was used to compare between groups. Result: (1) Mice infected or reinfected with RSV showed pale hair, weight loss, decreased activity and anorexia.(2) IFN-γ levels significantly increased on days 5 and 7 following RSV primary infection and reinfection as compared to control groups in wild type mice ((192±44) vs.(36±8) and (531±161) vs.(23±4) pg/ml on day 5, (100±23) vs.(36±8) and (862±186) vs.(23±4) pg/ml on day 7, t=2.654, 2.513, 2.654, 3.968, all P<0.05). (3) Compared to the RSV-reinfected IFN-γ(-/-) mice, RSV-reinfected wild type mice had less body weight loss ((13.6±2.6)% vs.(22.7±2.9)% on day 5, (18.0±3.1)% vs.(26.5±1.8)% on day 7, t=2.314, 2.308, both P<0.05), lower lung tissue histopathological score ((1.50±0.09) vs.(2.07±0.11) on day 5, (1.53±0.11) vs.(2.08±0.09) on day 7, (1.10±0.06) vs.(1.59±0.08) on day 14, t=3.916, 3.890, 4.837, all P<0.01), less BALF inflammatory cells count ((11.6±2.0) vs.(44.2±10.6)×10(5)/ml on day 5, (18.2±3.9) vs.(38.3±2.2)×10(5)/ml on day 7, t=2.818, 4.786, both P<0.05), and lower levels of IL-5 and IL-13 ((24±3) vs.(148±23), (23±4) vs.(169±26) pg/ml on day 5, (30±8) vs.(233±44), (20±5) vs.(182±19) pg/ml on day 7, (91±6) vs.(129±19), (62±8) vs.(132±5) pg/ml on day 14, t=5.252, 5.445, 4.517, 7.326, 3.816, 7.577, all P<0.01). Conclusion: IFN-γ can alleviate airway inflammation following RSV reinfection in mice.

Hydrogen enhanced cracking studies on Fe-3wt%Si single and bi-crystal microcantilevers

Hydrogen (H) enhanced cracking was studied in Fe-3wt%Si by means of in situ electrochemical microcantilever bending test. It was clearly shown that the presence of H causes hydrogen embrittlement (HE) by triggering crack initiation and propagation at the notch where stress concentration is existing. Additionally, the effect of carbon content and the presence of a grain boundary (GB) in the cantilever were studied. It was shown that in the presence of H the effect of carbon atom on pinning the dislocations is reduced. On the other hand, the presence of a GB, while the chemical composition of material kept constant, will promote the HE. Crack initiation and propagation occur in the presence of H, while the notch blunting was observed for both single and bi-crystalline beams bent in air. Post-mortem analysis of the crack propagation path showed that a transition from transgranular fracture to intragranular fracture mechanism is highly dependent on the position of the stress concentration relative to the GB.This article is part of the themed issue 'The challenges of hydrogen and metals'.

[Clinical study on the relationship between pancreatic fistula and the degree of pancreatic fibrosis after pancreatic and duodenal resection]

Objective: To explore the risk factors of pancreatic fistula after pancreatoduodenectomy and its relationship with pancreatic fibrosis. Methods: Retrospective analysis was made including 408 patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy from January 2013 to December 2015 in Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital of Third Military Medical University. There were 274 males and females, aging from 14 to 82 years with an average age of 54.6 years. Postoperative pathological diagnosis: 285 cases with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, 81 cases with gastrointestinal tumors, 13 cases with neuroendocrine tumors, 16 cases with inflammatory changes, 8 cases with pancreatic papillary tumors, 4 cases with serous cystadenoma, 1 case with retroperitoneal liposarcoma.Univariate analysis using pearson's χ(2) test, multivariate analysis using binary Logistic regression analysis, correlation analysis using Spearman rank correlation analysis and the predictive value of pancreatic fibrosis in pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic(ROC) curve. Results: There were 123 cases (30.1%) with postoperative pancreatic fistula among 408 patients. Univariate analysis showed that body mass index(BMI)(P=0.005), preoperative gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase content(P=0.046), pancreatic duct diameter(P=0.001), CT value of pancreatic tissue(P=0.049), operation time(P=0.037), pancreatic stiffness (intraoperative judgment)(P=0.001) and percentage of pancreatic fibrosis(P=0.034) were the prognostic factors of pancreatic fistula. Multivariate analysis showed that BMI≥25 kg/m(2), pancreatic duct diameter ≤3 mm, pancreatic tissue CT value <40 Hu, pancreatic hardness (intraoperative judgments) for the soft and pancreatic lobular fibrosis percentage ≤25% of postoperative pancreatic fistula occurrence of high-risk factor(P<0.05). Pancreatic fistula's CT value and percentage of pancreatic fibrosis were significantly lower than non-pancreatic fistula group, the difference was statistically significant(P<0.05). There were significant differences in CT value and pancreatic lobular fibrosis among different grades of pancreatic fistulae(P<0.05). Pancreatic fistula severity was negatively correlated with the CT value of pancreatic body and the percentage of fibrosis of the pancreas(P=0.005, 0.019), and there was a significant correlation between CT value of pancreatic body and the percentage of fibrosis of the pancreas(r=0.699, P=0.028). The areas under the ROC curve of percentage of pancreatic fibrosis and CT value of the pancreatic body were 0.745 and 0.714, respectively. Both of them were moderate predictive value for pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy. Conclusions: The degree of pancreatic fibrosis is a prognostic factor for pancreatic texture and pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy. CT value of pancreatic body can be used as a quantitative index of pancreatic fibrosis, and predict the prognostic of pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Chemically exfoliating large sheets of phosphorene via choline chloride urea viscosity-tuning

Exfoliation of two-dimensional phosphorene from bulk black phosphorous through chemical means is demonstrated where the solvent system of choice (choline chloride urea diluted with ethanol) has the ability to successfully exfoliate large-area multi-layer phosphorene sheets and further protect the flakes from ambient degradation. The intercalant solvent molecules, aided by low-powered sonication, diffuse between the layers of the bulk black phosphorus, allowing for the exfoliation of the multi-layer phosphorene through breaking of the interlayer van der Waals bonds. Through viscosity tuning, the optimal parameters (1:1 ratio between the intercalant and the diluting solvent) at which the exfoliation takes place is determined. Our exfoliation technique is shown to produce multi-layer phosphorene flakes with surface areas greater than 3 μm² (a factor of three larger than what has previously been reported for a similar exfoliation method) while limiting exposure to the ambient environment, thereby protecting the flakes from degradation. Characterization techniques such as optical microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, and (scanning) transmission electron microscopy are used to investigate the quality, quantity, and thickness of the exfoliated flakes.

[Distribution of electroencephalograph power density in patients with severe obstructive sleep apnea during different sleep stages]

Objective: To investigate the variation of electroencephalograph(EEG) power density during different sleep stages in OSA for understanding of the mechanisms underlying the brain dysfunction in OSA as well as its earlier diagnosis and treatment. Methods: Sixteen-channel EEGs from OSA patients and normal controls in stage wake, sleep stage 1, sleep stage 2, sleep stage 3 and rapid eye movement stage were analyzed by time-frequency analysis method. The EEG power density in different frequency bands (including δ, θ, α, σ, β and γ) was respectively compared between the 2 groups. The correlation between the variation in the EEG power and primary indices of polysomnography was further analyzed. Results: The EEG power density in δ band in stage wake [OSA: (0.82±0.13) μV(2)/Hz, Control: (0.66±0.02) μV(2)/Hz, t=4.309, P<0.05], stage 1 [OSA: (1.28±0.07) μV(2)/Hz, Control: (0.92±0.04) μV(2)/Hz, t=-3.369, P<0.05] and stage 3 [OSA: (2.74±0.22) μV(2)/Hz, Control: (2.04±0.07) μV(2)/Hz, t=-2.669, P<0.05] was significantly higher in OSA, compared with that in the control. Statistical analysis showed that the EEG power density was significantly higher in frontal and central regions in stage wake [frontal: OSA: (0.90±0.02) μV(2)/Hz, Control: (0.66±0.02) μV(2)/Hz, t=8.539, P<0.01; central: OSA: (1.15±0.06) μV(2)/Hz, Control: (0.72±0.02) μV(2)/Hz, t=6.669, P<0.01] and stage 1 [frontal: OSA: (1.23±0.03) μV(2)/Hz, Control: (0.99±0.03) μV(2)/Hz, t=5.983, P<0.01; central: OSA: (1.52±0.05) μV(2)/Hz, Control: (1.14±0.04) μV(2)/Hz, t=5.714, P<0.01], as well as central region in stage 3 [OSA: (3.24±0.17) μV(2)/Hz, Control: (2.71±0.08) μV(2)/Hz, t=2.707, P<0.05]. The correlation analysis showed that the power density in central region in stage 1 and stage 3 was positively correlated with arousal index (r=0.877 in stage 1, 0.656 in stage 3), implying that sleep fragmentation was closely related to the variation of EEG power density during nocturnal sleep in OSA. Conclusions: The feature stages for OSA are stage wake, stage 1 and stage 3. The EEG power density in OSA (δ band) was significantly higher than that in the control. The EEG power density in OSA and the control shows differences in frontal and central regions in stage wake and stage 1, as well as in central region in stage 3. The results indicate that low-frequency EEG power density giving priority to frontal area and central area has improved in severe OSA, which may be related to the neurologic deficits in corresponding brain areas.

Protective efficacy and hepatitis B virus clearance in mice enhanced by cell-mediated immunity with novel prime-boost regimens

In this study, anti-hepatitis B virus (HBV) immunity was evaluated in mice using several regimens of the HBV recombinant protein vaccine HBSS1 that expressed in CHO cells containing S (1-223 aa) and preS1 (21-47 aa) and recombinant adenovirus rAdSS1 vaccine. Further, the protective efficacy of these vaccine regimens was studied in a mouse model. High titres of antigen-specific antibodies and neutralizing activity were elicited in mice after vaccination. However, robust multi-antigen (preS1 and S)-specific cell-mediated immunity (CMI) was only detected in mice primed with HBSS1 and boosted with rAdSS1. Moreover, functional T-cell responses with high levels of cytokines and antigen-specific cytotoxic T-cell responses (CD107a⁺ CD8⁺ ) were also detected in the mice. Rapid clearance of hepatitis B surface antigen and HBV DNA in blood and significantly decreased hepatitis B envelope antigen levels were observed in mice immunized with the heterogeneous prime-boost vaccine after hepatitis B virus challenge by hydrodynamic injection (HI) of pCS-HBV1.3. The clearance of HBV correlated well with antigen-specific CMI (Th1 and CTL responses) and cytokine profiles (IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-2) elicited by vaccination. Taken together, our results might contribute to the development of new human HBV vaccines and a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying immune protection and clearance of hepatitis B virus infection.

Mediating effect of coping styles on the association between psychological capital and psychological distress among Chinese nurses: a cross-sectional study

WHAT IS KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT?: Studies show that psychological capital (PsyCap) is a protective factor against psychological distress, such as depressive symptoms. However, few have attempted to address the role of coping styles in the relationship between PsyCap and psychological distress. WHAT DOES THIS PAPER ADD TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: Our study found moderate levels of PsyCap among nurses in China. Among the subcategories of PsyCap, optimism and hope were most highly correlated with psychological distress. Psychological distress was positively associated with negative coping and negatively associated with positive coping. This study confirmed the partial mediating effect of coping styles in PsyCap and psychological distress among Chinese nurses. In other words, this study found direct and indirect effects of PsyCap on psychological distress mediated via coping styles. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE?: The significant mediating effect of negative and positive coping styles between PsyCap and psychological distress has implications for hospital administrators, especially nurse leaders. Effective strategies should be implemented to improve PsyCap and coping styles among Chinese nurses, and alleviate psychological distress. Optimism and hope should be emphasized in PsyCap investment. Different styles of coping are influenced and modified by teaching and experience. Therefore, it is essential that nurse managers organize educational and training programmes to provide nurses with relative coping knowledge and techniques, and improve their coping ability. Several studies suggest that coping styles are affected by social support. Thus, nurse managers should assist nurses with social support and enhance coping strategies to reduce psychological distress.

ABSTRACT

Introduction PsyCap includes four categories namely self-efficacy, hope, optimism and resilience. Research has demonstrated that PsyCap and coping styles affect current psychological distress. Nevertheless, few studies have explored the role of coping styles in PsyCap and psychological distress. Aim This study investigated the role of coping styles as a mediator in PsyCap and psychological distress among Chinese nurses. Methods Participants included 538 nurses who completed self-report questionnaires assessing PsyCap, coping styles and psychological distress. Linear regression analyses were used to explore the role of coping styles. Results PsyCap, coping styles and psychological distress were significantly correlated. Among the subcategories of PsyCap, optimism and hope were most highly correlated with psychological distress. Coping styles is a partial mediator of PsyCap and psychological distress. Implications for mental health nursing The significant role of negative and positive coping styles in PsyCap and psychological distress has implications for hospital administrators, especially nurse leaders. Effective strategies should be implemented to improve PsyCap and coping styles among Chinese nurses, to alleviate psychological distress. Optimism and hope should be the focus of the improvement. Different styles of coping are developed from education and experience. Therefore, it is necessary for nurse managers to organize educational and training programmes to improve coping skills among nurses. Studies suggest that coping styles are affected by social support. Thus, nurse managers should also assist nurses with social support and enhance coping strategies to reduce psychological distress.

[Effect of continuous femoral nerve block combined with periarticular local infiltration analgesia on early operative functional recovery after total knee arthroplasty: a randomized double-blind controlled study]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of early rehabilitation training after total knee arthroplasty surgery by continuous femoral nerve block (CFNB) with or without periarticular local infiltration analgesia (PLIA).

METHODS

In this randomized, double-blind, controlled study, 100 patients under-going primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty in patients with knee osteoarthritis were enrolled. All the patients received CFNB for postoperative analgesia before combined spinal epidural anesthesia. They were randomly divided into 2 groups (n=50 each): CFNB group, CFNB combined with PLIA group (PLIA group). Group PLIA received periarticular local infiltration analgesia with 20 mL ropivacaine (5 g/L), while the equal volume of normal saline was used instead of ropivacaine in group CFNB. Postoperative pain during rest and passive exercises including front and rear portions of knees, the time of ability to perform an active straight leg raise, the time of ability to reach 90° knee flexion, and preoperative and postoperative hospital for special surgery knee score (HSS) were evaluated.

RESULTS

Compared with group CFNB, the visual analogue scores (VAS) of front of knees at rest time in group PLIA had no significant difference (P>0.05); there were significant differences at 4, 8, 12, 24 h postoperation in portions of knees at rest time (P<0.05); the VAS had significant differences at 24 h in passive exercises of knees (P<0.05); the VAS had significant differences at 12, 24 h in portions of knees at passive exercises of the knees (P<0.05); the time of ability to perform an active straight leg raise had significant differences in the two groups (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Compared with CFNB postoperative analgesia alone, CFNB with PLIA could relieve rest pain and pain during passive movement after total knee arthroplasty. CFNB with PLIA could shorten the time to perform an active straight leg raise and the time of ability to reach 90° knee flexion. And so some patients could improve postoperative rehabilitation training.

Bivalent IAP antagonists, but not monovalent IAP antagonists, inhibit TNF-mediated NF-κB signaling by degrading TRAF2-associated cIAP1 in cancer cells

The inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) proteins have pivotal roles in cell proliferation and differentiation, and antagonizing IAPs in certain cancer cell lines results in induction of cell death. A variety of IAP antagonist compounds targeting the baculovirus IAP protein repeat 3 (BIR3) domain of cIAP1have advanced into clinical trials. Here we sought to compare and contrast the biochemical activities of selected monovalent and bivalent IAP antagonists with the intent of identifying functional differences between these two classes of IAP antagonist drug candidates. The anti-cellular IAP1 (cIAP1) and pro-apoptotic activities of monovalent IAP antagonists were increased by using a single covalent bond to combine the monovalent moieties at the P4 position. In addition, regardless of drug concentration, treatment with monovalent compounds resulted in consistently higher levels of residual cIAP1 compared with that seen following bivalent compound treatment. We found that the remaining residual cIAP1 following monovalent compound treatment was predominantly tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor-associated factor 2 (TRAF2)-associated cIAP1. As a consequence, bivalent compounds were more effective at inhibiting TNF-induced activation of p65/NF-κB compared with monovalent compounds. Moreover, extension of the linker chain at the P4 position of bivalent compounds resulted in a decreased ability to degrade TRAF2-associated cIAP1 in a manner similar to monovalent compounds. This result implied that specific bivalent IAP antagonists but not monovalent compounds were capable of inducing formation of a cIAP1 E3 ubiquitin ligase complex with the capacity to effectively degrade TRAF2-associated cIAP1. These results further suggested that only certain bivalent IAP antagonists are preferred for the targeting of TNF-dependent signaling for the treatment of cancer or infectious diseases.

High Serum Folate Is Associated with Brain Atrophy in Older Diabetic People with Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Previous studies have reported the adverse cognitive effects of high folate status in older individuals with vitamin B12 (VB12) deficiency. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate how high serum folate and VB12 deficiency could collaboratively aggravate neuronal degeneration. In total, 146 older non-demented diabetic individuals with an average age of 75 ± 3.9 were recruited. VB12 deficiency and high folate status were based on high serum methylmalonic acid (MMA) concentrations (> 0.3 μmol/L) and the serum folate concentration being in the top tertile (> 31.4 nmol/L) respectively. Among these subjects, there were 20 with elevated MMA and high folate. The structural magnetic resonance imaging data of these subjects were analyzed by performing flexible factorial analysis with the "folate level" and "MMA level" added as main effects, and the interaction effect of folate and VB12 on brain volume was evaluated. The results showed significant gray matter atrophy of the right middle occipital gyrus and the opercular part of the inferior frontal gyrus in subjects with a simultaneous high folate status and VB12 deficiency. Together with previous observational studies on cognitive function, this study lends support to the notion that high serum folate concentrations in older people with VB12 deficiency may be associated with increased neurodegeneration.

Prevalence and risk factors for functional bowel disorders in South China: a population based study using the Rome III criteria

BACKGROUND

Functional bowel disorders (FBDs) such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) impact on quality of life and health care resources. It is uncertain whether patients with functional digestive symptoms have similar characteristics in different populations. This population-based study assessed the prevalence and identified risk factors for these disorders in South-East China.

METHODS

Five communities were selected at random and invitations distributed to a representative sample (block randomization). Questionnaires were completely supervised by investigators. Demographic and medical data with FBD symptoms (Rome III criteria), psychological condition, life event stress, and quality of life were collected.

KEY RESULTS

Functional bowel disorder prevalence was 41.6% in 1999/2115 (94.5%) completed questionnaires: 9.9% functional constipation (FC), 6.8% bloating (FB), 6.5% diarrhea (FD), 5.9% IBS (IBS-D 47.1%, IBS-M 23.9%, IBS-C 12.8%, IBS-U 16.2%), and 12.6% unspecified. Similar numbers of men and women had FBDs or IBS (overall; 51.3% male vs 48.7% female, P=.796); however, there was female predominance in FC (62.1%, P<.001) and FB (58.5%, P=.038). FBDs were associated with greater anxiety, depression, life event stress, and a lower quality of life compared with those without symptoms (all, P<.0001). Logistic regression identified medical co-morbidity, anxiety/depression, and life event stress as independent risk factors for these disorders.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Functional bowel disorders are as common in South China as in western populations. A similar number of men and women report FBDs and IBS. Only FC and FB are more prevalent in females. Independent risk factors associated with FBDs included physical and psychosocial stressors.