FOXK1 interaction with FHL2 promotes proliferation, invasion and metastasis in colorectal cancer

The transcriptional factor Forkhead box k1 (FOXK1) is a member of the FOX family. The abnormal expression of FOXK1 may have an important role in tumour development. Our previous studies showed that four-and-a-half LIM protein 2 (FHL2) is a critical inducer of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and invasion. However, the molecular mechanism by which FOXK1 synergizes with FHL2 tumour proliferation, EMT and metastasis is not well defined. We evaluated that messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression levels by quantitative RT–PCR, western blot, immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays. The migration and invasive abilities of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells were evaluated using short hairpin RNA (shRNA)-mediated inhibition in vitro and in vivo. We showed that FOXK1 expression was upregulated in CRC compared with matched normal tissues. FOXK1 physically interacts with FHL2 in CRC. Moreover, higher expression levels of the two proteins were significantly associated with differentiation, lymph node metastasis, AJCC stage and poorer prognosis. Furthermore, the overexpression of FOXK1 in CRC cells is associated with EMT, invasion and metastasis. However, the siRNA-mediated repression of FHL2 in FOXK1-overexpressing cells reversed EMT and both the proliferative and metastatic phenotypes in vitro and in vivo. These data identified that the co-expression of FOXK1 and FHL2 enhances cell proliferation and metastasis through the induction of EMT. Thus, FOXK1 and FHL2 may serve as putative targets in the combined therapy of CRC.

Histone H3K9 acetylation influences growth characteristics of goat adipose-derived stem cells in vitro

Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) show nearly unlimited potential in medical and animal science. Currently, understanding of the biological mechanisms regulating ADSC growth in vitro remains very limited. Histone acetylation, an epigenetic modification, plays a key role in maintaining stem cell properties. To further study its effect on ADSC growth characteristics in vitro, we treated goat ADSCs with the histone deacetylase inhibitors trichostatin A (TSA) and vorinostat (SAHA). This inhibited SIRT1 expression and increased histone H3K9 acetylation, leading to decreased cell viability, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed that H3K9 hyperacetylation stimulated transcription of NANOG, OCT4, SOX2, and TERT, but inhibited that of PCNA, P53, and BAX. Western blotting indicated that TSA and SAHA increased protein expression of NANOG, reduced that of SOX2, TERT, PCNA, P53, and BAX, and did not change that of OCT4. These findings provide new experimental evidence contributing to our understanding of the mechanisms underlying ADSC growth characteristics in vitro.

Far-infrared tangential interferometer/polarimeter design and installation for NSTX-U

The Far-infrared Tangential Interferometer/Polarimeter (FIReTIP) system has been refurbished and is being reinstalled on the National Spherical Torus Experiment-Upgrade (NSTX-U) to supply real-time line-integrated core electron density measurements for use in the NSTX-U plasma control system (PCS) to facilitate real-time density feedback control of the NSTX-U plasma. Inclusion of a visible light heterodyne interferometer in the FIReTIP system allows for real-time vibration compensation due to movement of an internally mounted retroreflector and the FIReTIP front-end optics. Real-time signal correction is achieved through use of a National Instruments CompactRIO field-programmable gate array.

Maternal dietary linoleic acid supplementation promotes muscle fibre type transformation in suckling piglets

As meat quality is basically dependent on muscle fibre characteristics, it is important to know how muscle fibres are regulated and transformed. This study aimed to investigate the effect of maternal dietary supplementation on muscle fibre types using 3% saturated fatty acid (palmitic acid, PA) or 3% unsaturated fatty acid (linoleic acid, LA) from 80 days of gestation to the weaning of offspring (25 days post-natal). The results indicated that higher mRNA levels of MyHCI type genes were found in the soleus muscles of piglets that suckled from LA-supplemented sows than from PA-supplemented sows. In addition, LA treatment increased the gene expression of the type I muscle fibre marker troponin I (p < 0.01), suggesting that LA promoted muscle fibre type transformation to type I fibres. Moreover, PGC-1α (p < 0.01) and MEF2c (p < 0.05) mRNA levels were higher in the piglets from the LA treatment group than in those from the PA treatment group. Furthermore, LA supplementation also significantly increased AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) mRNA levels (p < 0.05), which is an upstream regulator of PGC-1α. Collectively, these findings demonstrated that maternal dietary LA supplementation promoted muscle fibre transformation to type I fibre and that this process may be mediated through an AMPK-dependent pathway.

Novel function of FAXDC2 in megakaryopoiesis

FAXDC2 (fatty acid hydroxylase domain containing 2) is a member of the fatty acid hydroxylase superfamily. Given the important role of fatty acids in megakaryocytes, we have studied the role of this gene in the development of this lineage. Here we show that the expression of FAXDC2 is constantly elevated during megakaryocyte maturation. In contrast, FAXDC2 is significantly downregulated in acute myeloid leukemia and acute megakaryoblastic leukemia. Moreover, FAXDC2 overexpression promotes the differentiation of megakaryocytic cell lines and primary cells, whereas its knockdown disrupts their maturation. Mechanism study shows that FAXDC2 overexpression enhances extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling and increases RUNX1 (Runt-related transcription factor 1) expression. FAXDC2 also restores megakaryocytic differentiation in cells exposed to an ERK inhibitor or those expressing a dominant negative form of RUNX1. Finally, FAXDC2 overexpression leads to an increase in sphingolipid GM3 synthase, suggesting a potential role of FAXDC2 in lipid metabolism that increases ERK signaling and facilitates megakaryocyte differentiation. Together, these results show that FAXDC2 plays a novel role in development of megakaryocytes and its dysregulation may contribute to abnormal hematopoietic cell development in leukemia.

Notch signaling in postnatal joint chondrocytes, but not subchondral osteoblasts, is required for articular cartilage and joint maintenance

OBJECTIVE

Notch signaling has been identified as a critical regulator in cartilage development and joint maintenance, and loss of Notch signaling in all joint tissues results in an early and progressive osteoarthritis (OA)-like pathology. This study investigated the targeted cell population within the knee joint in which Notch signaling is required for normal cartilage and joint integrity.

METHODS

Two loss-of-function mouse models were generated with tissue-specific knockout of the core Notch signaling component, RBPjκ. The AcanCre(ERT2) transgene specifically removed Rbpjκ floxed alleles in postnatal joint chondrocytes, while the Col1Cre(2.3kb) transgene deleted Rbpjκ in osteoblast populations, including subchondral osteoblasts. Mutant and control mice were analyzed via histology, immunohistochemistry (IHC), real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), X-ray, and microCT imaging at multiple time-points.

RESULTS

Loss of Notch signaling in postnatal joint chondrocytes results in a progressive OA-like pathology, and triggered the recruitment of non-targeted fibrotic cells into the articular cartilage potentially due to mis-regulated chemokine expression from within the cartilage. Upon recruitment, these fibrotic cells produced degenerative enzymes that may lead to the observed cartilage degradation and contribute to a significant portion of the age-related OA-like pathology. On the contrary, loss of Notch signaling in subchondral osteoblasts did not affect normal cartilage development or joint maintenance.

CONCLUSIONS

RBPjκ-dependent Notch signaling in postnatal joint chondrocytes, but not subchondral osteoblasts, is required for articular cartilage and joint maintenance.

MiR-485-3p and miR-485-5p suppress breast cancer cell metastasis by inhibiting PGC-1α expression

Breast cancer is the worldwide leading cause of cancer mortality in women. The majority of deaths from breast cancer arise from metastasis of local tumors. Cancer cells support their rapid proliferation by diverting metabolites into anabolic pathways, but during cancer metastasis, the proliferative program of invasive cancer cells is suspended for a migratory phenotype. In this study, we demonstrated that both mature forms of miRNA-485, miR-485-3p and miR-485-5p were involved in regulating mitochondrial respiration, cell migration and cell invasion in breast cancer cells by directly targeting and inhibiting the expression of PGC-1α. Specifically, the expression levels of both miR-485-3p and miR-485-5p were decreased in breast cancer tissues. Overexpression of miR-485-3p and miR-485-5p suppressed mitochondrial respiration and potential for cell migration and invasion in vitro, and also inhibited spontaneous metastasis of breast cancer cells in vivo. The suppression of mitochondrial respiration and cell invasion could be partially relieved by restoration of PGC-1α expression.

Targeting HDAC with a novel inhibitor effectively reverses paclitaxel resistance in non-small cell lung cancer via multiple mechanisms

Chemotherapy paclitaxel yields significant reductions in tumor burden in the majority of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. However, acquired resistance limits its clinical use. Here we demonstrated that the histone deacetylase (HDAC) was activated in paclitaxel-resistant NSCLC cells, and its activation promoted proliferation and tumorigenesis of paclitaxel-resistant NSCLC cells in vitro and in vivo. By contrast, knockdown of HDAC1, a primary isoform of HDAC, sensitized resistant cells to paclitaxel in vitro. Furthermore, we observed that overexpression of HDAC1 was associated with the downregulation of p21, a known HDAC target, in advanced NSCLC patients with paclitaxel treatment, and predicted chemotherapy resistance and bad outcome. In addition, we also identified a novel HDACs inhibitor, SNOH-3, which inhibited HDAC expression and activity, induced cell apoptosis, and suppressed cell migration, invasion and angiogenesis. Notably, co-treatment with SNOH-3 and paclitaxel overcome paclitaxel resistance through inhibiting HDAC activity, leading to the induction of apoptosis and suppression of angiogenesis in vitro and in preclinical model. In summary, our data demonstrate a role of HDAC in paclitaxel-resistant NSCLC and provide a promising therapeutic strategy to overcome paclitaxel-acquired resistance.

Primary investigation of the optical limiting performance of cyclo[8]pyrrole with a wide optical limiting window

Cyclo[8]pyrrole (CP) was prepared and its UV/vis spectral and optical limiting properties for ns light pulse were investigated withZ-scan technical.

Effects of anaesthesia on proliferation, invasion and apoptosis of LoVo colon cancer cells in vitro

Tumour cell proliferation, invasion and apoptosis are crucial steps in tumour metastasis. We evaluated the effect of serum from patients undergoing colon cancer surgery receiving thoracic epidural and propofol anaesthesia on colon cancer cell biology. Patients were randomly assigned to receive propofol anaesthesia with a concomitant thoracic epidural (PEA, n = 20) or sevoflurane anaesthesia with opioid analgesia (SGA, n = 20). Venous blood was obtained before induction of anaesthesia and 24 hours postoperatively. The LoVo colon cancer cells were cultured with patient serum from both groups and the effects on proliferation, invasion and apoptosis were measured. Twenty-four hours after surgery, the absorbance value of LoVo cells at 10% serum concentration from PEA was decreased when compared with SGA (0.302 (0.026) vs 0.391 (0.066), p = 0.005). The inhibitory rate of LoVo cells at 10% serum concentration from PEA was higher than that from SGA (p = 0.004) 24 h after surgery. The number of invasive LoVo cells at 10% serum concentration from PEA was reduced when compared with SGA (44 (4) vs 62 (4), p < 0.001). Exposure of LoVo cells to postoperative serum from patients receiving PEA led to a higher luminescence ratio (apoptosis) than those receiving SGA (0.36 (0.04) vs 0.27 (0.05), p < 0.001). Serum from patients receiving PEA for colon cancer surgery inhibited proliferation and invasion of LoVo cells and induced apoptosis in vitro more than that from patients receiving SGA. Anaesthetic technique might influence the serum milieu in a way that affects cancer cell biology and, thereby, tumour metastastasis.

On the road to metallic nanoparticles by rational design: bridging the gap between atomic-level theoretical modeling and reality by total scattering experiments

The extent to which current theoretical modeling alone can reveal real-world metallic nanoparticles (NPs) at the atomic level was scrutinized and demonstrated to be insufficient and how it can be improved by using a pragmatic approach involving straightforward experiments is shown. In particular, 4 to 6 nm in size silica supported Au(100-x)Pd(x) (x = 30, 46 and 58) explored for catalytic applications is characterized structurally by total scattering experiments including high-energy synchrotron X-ray diffraction (XRD) coupled to atomic pair distribution function (PDF) analysis. Atomic-level models for the NPs are built by molecular dynamics simulations based on the archetypal for current theoretical modeling Sutton-Chen (SC) method. Models are matched against independent experimental data and are demonstrated to be inaccurate unless their theoretical foundation, i.e. the SC method, is supplemented with basic yet crucial information on the length and strength of metal-to-metal bonds and, when necessary, structural disorder in the actual NPs studied. An atomic PDF-based approach for accessing such information and implementing it in theoretical modeling is put forward. For completeness, the approach is concisely demonstrated on 15 nm in size water-dispersed Au particles explored for bio-medical applications and 16 nm in size hexane-dispersed Fe48Pd52 particles explored for magnetic applications as well. It is argued that when "tuned up" against experiments relevant to metals and alloys confined to nanoscale dimensions, such as total scattering coupled to atomic PDF analysis, rather than by mere intuition and/or against data for the respective solids, atomic-level theoretical modeling can provide a sound understanding of the synthesis-structure-property relationships in real-world metallic NPs. Ultimately this can help advance nanoscience and technology a step closer to producing metallic NPs by rational design.

Screening of polymorphisms located in the FGF20 and TMEM175 genes in North Chinese Parkinson's disease patients

Genome-wide association studies have reported numerous susceptibility loci for Parkinson's disease (PD). However, there have been few replication studies examining these loci in northern Chinese populations. To evaluate the relationships among 3 polymorphic markers located in the fibroblast growth factor 20 and transmembrane protein 175 genes and the genetic susceptibility to PD in northern Chinese subjects, 2 single nucleotide polymorphisms, and 1 insertion/deletion marker (rs591323 in FGF20; rs6599388 and rs142821586 in transmembrane protein 175 near the G-associated kinase/diacylglycerol kinase theta region) were investigated in 313 PD patients and 318 matched controls. Mismatched multiplex polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis as well as sequence-specific primer polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism assays were performed. The genotypic frequency of rs591323 differed significantly between the patient and control groups; however, neither rs6599388 nor rs142821586 was associated with PD. We corrected the Hardy-Weinberg disequilibrium for rs6599388, which was previously reported to be common in 4 Asian descent populations into equilibrium status by simultaneously genotyping rs6599388 and rs142821586. In summary, we found that rs591323 was associated with PD but rs6599388 and rs142821586 were not associated with PD in a northern Chinese population.

Efficient coupling of double-metal terahertz quantum cascade lasers to flexible dielectric-lined hollow metallic waveguides

The growth in terahertz frequency applications utilising the quantum cascade laser is hampered by a lack of targeted power delivery solutions over large distances (>100 mm). Here we demonstrate the efficient coupling of double-metal quantum cascade lasers into flexible polystyrene lined hollow metallic waveguides via the use of a hollow copper waveguide integrated into the laser mounting block. Our approach exhibits low divergence, Gaussian-like emission, which is robust to misalignment error, at distances > 550 mm, with a coupling efficiency from the hollow copper waveguide into the flexible waveguide > 90%. We also demonstrate the ability to nitrogen purge the flexible waveguide, increasing the power transmission by up to 20% at 2.85 THz, which paves the way for future fibre based terahertz sensing and spectroscopy applications.

Prevalence of Metabolically Healthy Obese and Metabolically Obese but Normal Weight in Adults Worldwide: A Meta-Analysis

The objective of the present study was to summarize the prevalence and influencing factors of metabolically healthy obese (MHO) and metabolically obese but normal weight (MONW) among people ≥ 18 years old in the general population worldwide. We searched for studies of the prevalence of MHO and MONW published in English and Chinese up to October 2013. Pooled prevalence estimates were calculated by a random-effects model according to a Q test. The effects of gender, region, age, sample size, smoking, and alcohol consumption on MHO and MONW were analyzed. Differences between subgroups were assessed by chi-square test. Publication bias was estimated by Egger's test. Studies of MHO and MONW showed heterogeneity (I(2)=99.4% and I(2)=99.7%, respectively). The overall prevalence of MHO and MONW was 7.27% (95% CI 5.92-8.90%) and 19.98% (95% CI 16.54-23.94%), respectively. American populations had the highest MHO prevalence and European populations the highest MONW prevalence. Different patterns of MHO and MONW were observed in the subgroup analysis with respect to gender, age, sample size, smoking, alcohol consumption, and metabolically healthy criteria. The prevalence of both MHO and MONW were affected by gender, region, age, sample size, smoking, alcohol consumption, and metabolically healthy criteria, but studies showed high heterogeneity.

Sub-Kelvin magnetic and electrical measurements in a diamond anvil cell with in situ tunability

We discuss techniques for performing continuous measurements across a wide range of pressure-field-temperature phase space, combining the milli-Kelvin temperatures of a helium dilution refrigerator with the giga-Pascal pressures of a diamond anvil cell and the Tesla magnetic fields of a superconducting magnet. With a view towards minimizing remnant magnetic fields and background magnetic susceptibility, we characterize high-strength superalloy materials for the pressure cell assembly, which allows high fidelity measurements of low-field phenomena such as superconductivity below 100 mK at pressures above 10 GPa. In situ tunability and measurement of the pressure permit experiments over a wide range of pressure, while at the same time making possible precise steps across abrupt phase transitions such as those from insulator to metal.

Fiber based optical tweezers for simultaneous in situ force exertion and measurements in a 3D polyacrylamide gel compartment

Optical tweezers play an important role in biological applications. However, it is difficult for traditional optical tweezers based on objective lenses to work in a three-dimensional (3D) solid far away from the substrate. In this work, we develop a fiber based optical trapping system, namely inclined dual fiber optical tweezers, that can simultaneously apply and measure forces both in water and in a 3D polyacrylamide gel matrix. In addition, we demonstrate in situ, non-invasive characterization of local mechanical properties of polyacrylamide gel by measurements on an embedded bead. The fiber optical tweezers measurements agree well with those of atomic force microscopy (AFM). The inclined dual fiber optical tweezers provide a promising and versatile tool for cell mechanics study in 3D environments.

The implant infection paradox: why do some succeed when others fail? Opinion and discussion paper

Biomaterial-implants are frequently used to restore function and form of human anatomy. However, the presence of implanted biomaterials dramatically elevates infection risk. Paradoxically, dental-implants placed in a bacteria-laden milieu experience moderate failure-rates, due to infection (0.0-1.1%), similar to the ones of joint-arthroplasties placed in a near-sterile environment (0.1-1.3%). Transcutaneous bone-fixation pins breach the immune-barrier of the epidermis, exposing underlying sterile-tissue to an unsterile external environment. In contrast to dental-implants, also placed in a highly unsterile environment, these pins give rise to relatively high infection-associated failure-rates of up to 23.0%. Herein, we attempt to identify causes as to why dental-implants so often succeed, where others fail. The major part of all implants considered are metal-made, with similar surface-finishes. Material choice was therefore discarded as underlying the paradox. Antimicrobial activity of saliva has also been suggested as a cause for the success of dental-implants, but was discarded because saliva is the implant-site-fluid from which viable bacteria adhere. Crevicular fluid was discarded as it is largely analogous to serum. Instead, we attribute the relative success of dental-implants to (1) ability of oral tissues to heal rapidly in the continuous presence of commensal bacteria and opportunistic pathogens, and (2) tolerance of the oral immune-system. Inability of local tissue to adhere, spread and grow in presence of bacteria and an intolerant immune-system are identified as the likely main causes explaining the susceptibility of other implants to infection-associated failure. In conclusion, it is the authors' belief that new anti-infection strategies for a wide range of biomaterial-implants may be derived from the relative success of dental-implants.

FBXL10 contributes to the progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma via involving in PI3K/mTOR pathway

Our study aimed to investigate whether F-box and leucine-rich repeat protein 10 (FBXL10) may play a pivotal role in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) development via involving in PI3K/mTOR pathway. We .constructed an FBXL10 expression vector (pcDNA3.1-FBXL10). Then pcDNA3.1-FBXL10 and FBXL10-specific siRNA (siFBXL10) were transfected into human NPC cell line CNE1 and SUNE1 with Lipofectamine ® 2000. Moreover, cells were treated with PI3K inhibitor BEZ235. Besides, MTT assay and flow cytometry were respectively used to explore cell proliferation and apoptosis in vitro. Finally, the expression of key proteins involved in PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, such as P-AKT, AKT, P-P70, P70, P-Myc and Myc, were determined by western blot. Western blot analysis displayed that FBXL10 was overexpressed and suppressed after transfected by pcDNA3.1-FBXL10 and siFBXL10, respectively. Moreover, cell proliferation in FBXL10 overexpression group gradually increased compared with control group while obviously decreased in siFBXL10 group. Moreover, volume of apoptotic cells significantly increased with knockdown of FBXL10, which was similar with BEZ235 treatment. Besides, knockdown of FBXL10 decreased the expression levels of PI3K/mTOR pathway-related proteins, which was also similar with BEZ235 treatment. Notably, BEZ235 and siFBXL10 treatment induced significant increase of cell apoptosis and decrease of the expression levels of PI3K/mTOR pathway-related proteins than that only treated with siFBXL10. These findings indicate that FBXL10 may play a pivotal role in promoting cell proliferation and inhibiting cell apoptosis in NPC cells via targeting or functioning synergistically with PI3K/mTOR pathway. Knockdown of FBXL10 may be a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of NPC.

Systemic or intra-amygdala infusion of an endocannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist AM251 blocked propofol-induced anterograde amnesia

Propofol is well-known for its anterograde amnesic actions. However, a recent experiment showed that propofol can also produce retrograde memory enhancement effects via an interaction with the endocannabinoid CB1 system. Therefore, the authors hypothesized that the regulating effect of propofol on the endocannabinoid CB1 system might also decrease the anterograde amnesic effect of propofol under some conditions, which might be a risk factor for intraoperative awareness. Since, the basolateral amygdala (BLA) has been confirmed to mediate propofol-induced anterograde amnesia and the BLA contains a high concentration of CB1 receptors, the authors investigated whether and how the endocannabinoid system, particularly the CB1 receptor within BLA, influences propofol-induced anterograde amnesia. Male Sprague-Dawley rats trained with inhibitory avoidance (IA) were systematically pre-trained using a memory-impairing dose of propofol (25 mg/kg). Before propofol administration, rats received an intraperitoneal injection of a CB1 receptor antagonist AM251 (1 mg/kg or 2 mg/kg) or a bilateral intra-BLA injection of AM251 (0.6 ng or 6 ng per 0.5 μl). Twenty-four hours after IA training, the IA retention latency was tested. It was found that systemic or intra-BLA injection of a non-regulating dose of AM251 (2 mg/kg or 6 ng per 0.5 μl, respectively) blocked the memory-impairing effect of propofol. These results indicate that the anterograde amnesic effect of propofol is mediated, in part, by activation of the CB1 cannabinoid receptors in the BLA.

Hollow metallic waveguides integrated with terahertz quantum cascade lasers

We present the realization of a compact, monolithically integrated arrangement of terahertz quantum cascade lasers with hollow metallic cylindrical waveguides. By directly mounting a copper pipe to the end facet of a double metal waveguide, it was possible to significantly improve the far field emission from such a sub-wavelength plasmonic mode, while preserving the characteristic performance of the laser. Careful alignment of the quantum cascade laser and the hollow waveguide is required in order to prevent the excitation of higher order/mixed modes as predicted with a high degree of accuracy by a theoretical model. Finally, this approach proved to be a superior method of beam shaping when compared to other in situ arrangements, such as a silicon hyper-hemispherical lens glued to the facet, which are presented.

A novel way to statistically analyze morphologic changes in Dmp1-null osteocytes

Recent studies have revealed multiple roles of osteocytes in bone metabolism. However, detailed analyses of the embedded osteocytes in bone structure are still limited because of the high mineral content around these cells. In this study, we developed an innovative technique, the "FITC-Imaris technique", which combines FITC ([2, 5]-Fluorescein isothiocyanate), confocal microscopy and Imaris software. With this method, we could not only visualize the 3-D morphology of embedded osteocytes, but more importantly, we were able to statistically quantitate the osteocyte structure in the cell surface area, total cell volume, and dendrite numbers. Furthermore, we made a side-by-side comparison of the new method with the acid-etched SEM imaging technique, a common imaging method for studies of osteocyte morphology with a much smaller cell depth (< 3 μm). Finally, we used the FITC-Imaris technique to show both the morphological and statistical differences in the osteocyte structure between the Dmp1-null mice (the osteomalacia model) and their age-matched control littermates. We expect that this newly developed technique will become a powerful tool to disclose more roles that osteocytes play in bone health and diseases.

The -675 4G/5G polymorphism in the PAI-1 gene may not contribute to the risk of PCOS

OBJECTIVE

The association between the -675 4G/5G polymorphism in PAI-1 gene and PCOS has been studied with inconclusive results. We sought to investigate this inconsistency by performing a comprehensive meta-analysis on the polymorphism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Searches were performed in the PubMed, Embase, CNKI and Wanfang databases, covering all papers. Statistical analysis was performed using Revman5.2 and STATA11.0 software. A total of 11 case-control studies were extracted on the polymorphism involving 1861 PCOS cases and 1187 controls.

RESULTS

The results showed that, no significant increased/decreased risk were found for the polymorphism for PCOS: OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.77-1.66, p = 0.52 for 4G4G + 4G5G vs. 5G5G; OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.66-1.49, p = 0.96 for 4G4G vs. 5G5G + 4G5G; OR = 1.08, 95% CI = 0.66-1.79, p = 0.76 for 4G4G vs. 5G5G; OR = 1.11, 95% CI = 0.78-1.58, p = 0.56 for 4G5G vs. 5G5G; OR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.71-1.41, p = 0.99 for 4G vs. 5G. In the further subgroup analysis by ethnicity, we did not find a significant association between the polymorphism for PCOS risk in either Asians or Europeans.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrated that -675 4G/5G polymorphism in the PAI-1 gene might not be a risk factor for the development of PCOS.

Remote monitoring of nuclear power plants in Baden-Wuerttemberg

As part of its responsibilities as nuclear supervisory authority, the Ministry of the Environment, Climate Protection and the Energy Sector Baden-Wuerttemberg (UM) operates a computer-based system for remote monitoring of nuclear power plants (NPPs) (KFUe, Kernreaktor-Fernüberwachung). In addition to the Baden-Wuerttemberg NPPs located at Philippsburg, Neckarwestheim and the disused Obrigheim, those in foreign locations close to the border area, i.e. Fessenheim in France, and Leibstadt and Beznau in Switzerland, are monitored. The KFUe system provides several methods to evaluate and present the measured data as well as to ensure compliance of threshold limits and safety objectives. For the UM, it serves as an instrument of the nuclear supervision. In case of a radioactive release, the authorities responsible for civil protection can use dispersion calculations in order to identify potentially affected areas and to initiate protective measures for the population. Beyond the data collected at the plant sites, various international radiation and meteorological measuring networks are integrated in the KFUe. The State Institute for Environment, Measurements and Nature Protection (LUBW), the technical operator of the KFUe, runs its own special monitoring network for ambient gamma dose rate and nuclide specific activity concentration measurements in the vicinity of each NPP. This article gives an overview of the solution to combine data of different sources on a single screen: dose rate networks, dose rate traces measured by car, airborne gamma spectra of helicopters, mobile dose rate probes, grid data of weather forecasts, dispersion calculations, etc.

Enhancing glass-forming ability via frustration of nano-clustering in alloys with a high solvent content

The glass-forming ability (GFA) of alloys with a high-solvent content such as soft magnetic Fe-based and Al-based alloys is usually limited due to strong formation of the solvent-based solid solution phase. Herein, we report that the GFA of soft magnetic Fe-based alloys (with >70 at.% Fe to ensure large saturation magnetization) could be dramatically improved by doping with only 0.3 at.% Cu which has a positive enthalpy of mixing with Fe. It was found that an appropriate Cu addition could enhance the liquid phase stability and crystallization resistance by destabilizing the α-Fe nano-clusters due to the necessity to redistribute the Cu atoms. However, excessive Cu doping would stimulate nucleation of the α-Fe nano-clusters due to the repulsive nature between the Fe and Cu atoms, thus deteriorating the GFA. Our findings provide new insights into understanding of glass formation in general.

Elevated plasma sphingomyelin (d18:1/22:0) is closely related to hepatic steatosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection

Hepatic steatosis affects disease progression in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. We investigated the plasma sphingolipid profile in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) and whether there was an association between HCV-related steatosis and plasma sphingolipids. We used high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) to analyze plasma sphingolipids in 120 interferon-naïve, non-diabetic, and non-obese CHC patients. Hepatic steatosis was defined as ≥5 % hepatocytes with fat based on histopathological analysis. Blood biochemical indicators and HCV load and genotype were also determined. Thirty-six (30.0 %) of 120 patients presented with hepatic steatosis Grades 1-3. Forty-four plasma sphingolipids were detected. Plasma sphingomyelin (SM) (d18:1/22:0) and ceramide (Cer) (d18:1/24:0)-1-P correlated with steatosis grade (r = 0.22, p = 0.015; r = -0.23, p = 0.012, respectively). SM (d18:1/22:0) [odds ratio (OR) = 1.12] and Cer (d18:1/24:0)-1-P (OR = 0.88) were independent factors for the presence of hepatic steatosis in CHC patients. The area under the curve (AUC) of SM (d18:1/22:0) and Cer (d18:1/24:0)-1-P was 0.637 and 0.638, respectively, to identify the presence of steatosis. Further analysis for genotype 2 CHC showed that only SM (d18:1/22:0) was independently linked to steatosis (OR = 1.21). The AUC of SM (d18:1/22:0) to identify hepatic steatosis in genotype 2 CHC was 0.726. Its sensitivity and negative predictive value reached 0.813 and 0.886, respectively. This study suggested that altered plasma SM (d18:1/22:0) was closely related to hepatic steatosis in chronic HCV infection, especially with genotype 2. Experimental studies are needed to determine further the underlying mechanisms responsible for these associations.

Third-party tolerogenic dendritic cells reduce allo-reactivity in vitro and ameliorate the severity of acute graft-versus-host disease in allo-bone marrow transplantation

Tolerogenic dendritic cells (tDCs) potently induce and maintain tolerance based on their distinct characteristics compared with conventional DCs. Recent reports show that donor or host tDCs promote allograft survival in mice. In this study, the efficacy of third-party tDCs in the prevention of acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) was evaluated. In vitro, tDCs derived from the bone marrow (BM) of D1 mice were induced by GM-CSF, IL-10 and TGF-β1. The phenotypes, expression of cytokines and suppression of tDCs were analysed. In vivo, the effects of adoptive transfer of third-party-tDCs were evaluated in an MHC-mismatched aGVHD mouse model. Survival, body weight, GVHD scoring, histopathological specimens and serum cytokines were analysed in tDC-treated mice and untreated controls. Tolerogenic DCs had low expression of MHC and co-stimulatory molecules, expressed high levels of 'immunosuppressive' cytokines and suppressed allo-CD4(+) T cell proliferation. In the B6→D2 mouse model, all aGVHD mice died within 18 days. Fortunately, third-party tDCs transferred at low doses (10(4)) effectively prolonged survival after allo-BMT. Furthermore, in the mice treated with 10(4) tDCs, serum levels of IL-10/TGF-β were significantly higher and the percentage of Foxp3(+) cells continually increased compared with the mice treated with other doses of tDCs. Third-party tDCs play a crucial role in reducing the severity of aGVHD by modulating the secretion of various cytokines and expanding Foxp3(+) regulatory T cells, which suggests the possibility of using third-party tDCs for therapeutic applications. Furthermore, special attention should be paid to the optimal range of tDCs for preventing allograft rejection.

The association between the C677T polymorphism in MTHFR gene and the risk of thyroid cancer: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) enzyme plays an important role in folate metabolism and MTHFR C677T polymorphism has been suggested as a risk factor to various cancers. It is a common genetic alteration and may affect the host susceptibility to thyroid cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and thyroid cancer risk by performing a meta-analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed, EMbase, CNKI and Wanfang databases were searched for case-control studies investigating the association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and thyroid cancer risk. OR with 95%CI was used to assess this possible association. Four individual case-control studies with a total of 360 cases and 900 controls were included into this meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Meta-analyses showed there was significant association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and thyroid cancer risk: TT vs. CC: OR = 2.06, 95% CI = 1.04-4.10, p = 0.04; T vs. C: OR = 2.06, 95% CI = 1.97-3.77, p = 0.04.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis supports an association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and thyroid cancer risk. Further studies with large sample size and careful design are needed to identify this association more comprehensively.