[Association between CETP polymorphisms and haplotypes with dyslipidemia in Xinjiang Uygur and Kazak residents]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the relationship between the polymorphisms and haplotypes in the CETP gene and dyslipidemia among Xinjiang Kazak and Uygur residents.

METHODS

A population status survey was performed from 2010 to 2011 in Kashgar Xinjiang Uygur and Kazak residents, stratified cluster sampling method was used to select Uygur, Kazak residents with abnormal blood lipid values (n=367 and 345, respectively) as the dyslipidemia groups, and to select residents with normal lipid values as control group from the same area (n=374 and 390, respectively). SNaPshot technology was applied to detect the DNA of CETP gene rs3764261, rs1800775, rs708272 and rs5882 loci in all selected residents, and linkage disequilibrium analysis and haplotype construction were performed.

RESULTS

(1) In Uygur residents, the dyslipidemia risk of rs708272 CT (OR=0.64, 95%CI 0.46-0.91, P=0.01) and TT genotype (OR=0.60, 95%CI 0.40-0.91, P=0.02) was significantly lower than CC genotype. Dyslipidemia risk of rs3764261 GT (OR=0.55, 95%CI 0.40-0.74, P=0.00) and TT genotype (OR=0.47, 95%CI 0.28-0.78, P<0.01) was significantly lower than GG genetype. Dyslipidemia risk of the rs1800775 CC genotype was higher than AA genotype (OR=1.79, 95%CI 1.17-2.74, P=0.01). There was no statistical significance in CETP gene of the 4 genotype and allele frequency between the dyslipidemia and normal lipid groups in Kazak residents (all P>0.05). (2) In Uighur residents with dyslipidemia, HDL-C level was significantly higher in rs708272 TT genotype carriers than in CC and CT genotypes (all P<0.05) and in rs3764261 TT genotype carriers than in GG genotype carriers (P=0.008), while was significantly lower in rs1800775 CC genotype carriers with AA genotype carriers (P=0.008). (3) Linkage disequilibrium analysis showed that there was strong linkage disequilibrium between rs3764261 and rs708272 (D'=0.869, r(2)=0.869), rs1800775 and rs708272 (D'=0.845, r(2)=0.446) in Uighur residents, and there was strong linkage disequilibrium between rs3764261 and rs708272 (D'=0.963, r(2)=0.963), rs1800775 and rs708272 (D'=0.988, r(2)=0.630) in Kazak residents. (4) Significant differences were observed in frequency distribution of haplotype GACA(OR=0.579, 95%CI 0.388-0.864, P=0.006), GATA (OR=2.183, 95%CI 1.231-3.873, P=0.006), GCCA (OR=0.723, 95%CI 0.549-0.954, P=0.001), TATA (OR=0.723, 95%CI 0.549-0.954, P=0.021) and TATG (OR=0.601, 95%CI 0.429-0.841, P=0.002) in Uighur residents with normal or abnormal lipid profiles, while significant difference was observed in frequency distribution of haplotype GCCG (OR=1.961, 95%CI 1.207-3.188, P=0.005) in Kazak residents with normal or abnormal lipid profiles.

CONCLUSION

CETP genotype rs708272, rs3764261 and rs1800775 polymorphism is closely related to dyslipidemia and haplotype GACA, TATA and TATG will reduce the risk of dyslipidemia, while haplotype GATA, GCCA will increase the risk of dyslipidemia in Uygur residents. The four CETP polymorphisms are not related to the risk of dyslipidemia, but haplotype GCCG is related to increased risk of dyslipidemia in Kazakhs residents.

Roles of the Laodelphax striatellus Down syndrome cell adhesion molecule in Rice stripe virus infection of its insect vector

The arthropod Down syndrome cell adhesion molecule (Dscam) mediates pathogen-specific recognition via an extensive protein isoform repertoire produced by alternative splicing. To date, most studies have focused on the subsequent pathogen-specific immune response, and few have investigated the entry into cells of viruses or endosymbionts. In the present study, we cloned and characterized the cDNA of Laodelphax striatellus Dscam (LsDscam) and investigated the function of LsDscam in rice stripe virus (RSV) infection and the influence on the endosymbiont Wolbachia. LsDscam displayed a typical Dscam domain architecture, including 10 immunoglobulin (Ig) domains, six fibronectin type III domains, one transmembrane domain and a cytoplasmic tail. Alternative splicing occurred at the N-termini of the Ig2 and Ig3 domains, the complete Ig7 domain, the transmembrane domain and the C-terminus, comprising 10, 51, 35, two and two variable exons, respectively. Potentially LsDscam could encode at least 71 400 unique isoforms and 17 850 types of extracellular regions. LsDscam was expressed in various L. striatellus tissues. Knockdown of LsDscam mRNA via RNA interference decreased the titres of both RSV and Wolbachia, but did not change the numbers of the extracellular symbiotic bacterium Acinetobacter rhizosphaerae. Specific Dscam isoforms may play roles in enhancing the infection of vector-borne viruses or endosymbionts.

Alleviation of doxorubicin–induced hepatorenal toxicities with sesamin via the suppression of oxidative stress

Hepatorenal toxicities are an important side effect of anthracycline antibiotics. The objective of this study was to determine whether sesamin (Ses) protects against acute doxorubicin (DOX)-induced hepatorenal toxicities. Rats received daily treatment with either 0.5% carboxymethylcellulose (10 mL/kg) or Ses (10, 20 and 40 mg/kg) orally for 10 days, followed by an intravenous injection at day 8 of either saline (10 mL/kg) or DOX (20 mg/kg). Hepatorenal toxicity was assessed by measuring the levels of serum creatinine (Cre), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). The protein expression of 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) in hepatorenal tissues was evaluated using immunohistochemistry. The malondialdehyde (MDA) content and antioxidant activity in the kidney and liver tissues were also measured. The results suggest that pretreatment with Ses ameliorated DOX-induced liver and kidney injury by lowering the serum ALT, AST, ALP, Cre and BUN levels ( p < 0.05 or p < 0.01), and the histological damage to the liver and kidney tissues induced by DOX compared to control were also significantly attenuated by Ses. Furthermore, Ses significantly decreased the DOX-induced increase of MDA and 4-HNE and increased the activity of CAT, SOD and GPX compared to the DOX-treated rats ( p < 0.05 or p < 0.01), whereas the change of DOX + Ses (10 mg/kg) group is not significant compared to the DOX-treated group ( p > 0.05). These findings indicate that Ses elicits a typical protective effect against DOX-induced acute hepatorenal toxicity via the suppression of oxidative stress.

Modulation of intra-pulmonary TGF-b expression by mycophenolate mofetil in lupus prone MRL/lpr mice

We investigated the expression profile of inflammatory cytokines in the lung of lupus-prone MRL/lpr mice and evaluated the therapeutic potential of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in reducing pulmonary cytokines in active lupus. Eight-week old female MRL/lpr mice ( n = 20) were treated with MMF in vehicle by oral gavage. Disease control MRL/lpr mice ( n = 30) or normal control MRL mice ( n = 20) received vehicle alone. The mice were sacrificed after eight or 12 weeks of treatment. Gene expression and protein synthesis of IL-1β, MCP-1 and TGF-β1 in lung tissues were determined. We found an increase in the gene expression of IL-1β, MCP-1 and TGF-β1 in lung tissues of untreated MRL/lpr mice compared with MRL mice at either 16 weeks or 20 weeks of age. MMF treatment significantly prolonged the survival of MRL/lpr mice, down-regulated the gene expression of IL-1β, MCP-1 and TGF-β1 in lung tissues at the end of eight or 12 weeks of treatment. Protein synthesis of TGF-b1 was decreased following eight weeks of MMF treatment. We conclude that MMF treatment can reduce the TGF-b1 gene expression and protein synthesis in lung tissues of lupus-prone mice. Our findings provide experimental data suggesting a beneficial potential of MMF therapy in pulmonary involvement of lupus.

[Radiographic study of Coflex interspinous device for lumbar spinal stenosis]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the radiography change of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) treated with the implantation of Coflex interspinous device retrospectively.

METHODS

Sixty patients (34 male and 26 female) with LSS who underwent the decompression and Coflex device implanted surgery from January 2010 to December 2013 were followed up. The mean age of the patients was 59.4 years. There were 33 cases underwent Coflex surgery and 27 cases underwent Topping-off surgery. The Coflex segment ranged from L1/2 to L4/5 (L1-2: 1, L2-3: 5, L3-4: 19, L4-5: 35). The foraminal height, foraminal width and intervertebral space height change of the Coflex segment as well as its adjacent segment were recorded pre-/post-operatively and at last follow-up.Meanwhile, the Oswestry Disability Index(ODI) and Visual Analog Scale(VAS) were measured in all patient pre-/post-operatively and at last follow-up. The measurement data was recorded asx±s. And the independent and paired samples t-test was used to conduct the statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The foraminal height(FH) increased from (19.82±2.38) mm to (22.28±2.95) mm (P<0.05) post-operatively, and the FH decreased to (19.31±3.32) mm at the last follow up(P>0.05, compared to the post-operation). The average foraminal width(FW) was 11.2 mm, 11.58 mm and 11.12 mm at pre-/post-operation and follow up, which had no significant different change(P>0.05). The post-operative intervertebral space height (ISH) increased from (7.84±1.56) mm to (10.05±2.39) mm(P<0.05), and the ISH decreased to (7.91±1.77) mm at the last follow up(P>0.05, compared to the post-operation). The amount of the decreased FH and ISH had no significant difference when comparing the Coflex segment with its adjacent (Coflex±1) segments (P>0.05). The lumbar lordosis(LL) was 43.13°±15.93°, 38.41°±10.82° and 43.10°±13.21° at pre-/post-operation and follow up, there was no significant difference between pre- and post-operation(P>0.05). All patients showed statistically significant improvement(P<0.05) in the clinical outcome assessed in the VAS and ODI at the time of follow up compared to the pre-operation. The ODI score decreased from 65.12±13.56 to 9.89±1.77; the VAS score decreased from 8.02±1.81 to 1.66±0.51.

CONCLUSIONS

Coflex device could temporarily improve the FH and ISH after operation. However, it could not maintain the improvement as the follow-up time extended. The surgical decompression is the responsible factor for the good clinical outcome but not the improvement of FH.

Lentivirus pre-packed with Cas9 protein for safer gene editing

The CRISPR/Cas9 system provides an easy way to edit specific site/s in the genome and thus offers tremendous opportunity for human gene therapy for a wide range of diseases. However, one major concern is off-target effects, particularly with long-term expression of Cas9 nuclease when traditional expression methods such as via plasmid/viral vectors are used. To overcome this limitation, we pre-packaged Cas9 protein (Cas9P LV) in lentiviral particles for transient exposure and showed its effectiveness for gene disruption in cells, including primary T cells expressing specific single guide RNAs (sgRNAs). We then constructed an 'all in one virus' to express sgRNAs in association with pre-packaged Cas9 protein (sgRNA/Cas9P LV). We successfully edited CCR5 in TZM-bl cells by this approach. Using an sgRNA-targeting HIV long terminal repeat, we also were able to disrupt HIV provirus in the J-LAT model of viral latency. Moreover, we also found that pre-packaging Cas9 protein in LV particle reduced off-target editing of chromosome 4:-29134166 locus by CCR5 sgRNA, compared with continued expression from the vector. These results show that sgRNA/Cas9P LV can be used as a safer approach for human gene therapy applications.

Regulatory T Cell Infusion Can Enhance Memory T Cell and Alloantibody Responses in Lymphodepleted Nonhuman Primate Heart Allograft Recipients

The ability of regulatory T cells (Treg) to prolong allograft survival and promote transplant tolerance in lymphodepleted rodents is well established. Few studies, however, have addressed the therapeutic potential of adoptively transferred, CD4(+) CD25(+) CD127(-) Foxp3(+) (Treg) in clinically relevant large animal models. We infused ex vivo-expanded, functionally stable, nonselected Treg (up to a maximum cumulative dose of 1.87 billion cells) into antithymocyte globulin-lymphodepleted, MHC-mismatched cynomolgus monkey heart graft recipients before homeostatic recovery of effector T cells. The monkeys also received tacrolimus, anti-interleukin-6 receptor monoclonal antibodies and tapered rapamycin maintenance therapy. Treg administration in single or multiple doses during the early postsurgical period (up to 1 month posttransplantation), when host T cells were profoundly depleted, resulted in inferior graft function compared with controls. This was accompanied by increased incidences of effector memory T cells, enhanced interferon-γ production by host CD8(+) T cells, elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines, and antidonor alloantibodies. The findings caution against infusion of Treg during the early posttransplantation period after lymphodepletion. Despite marked but transient increases in Treg relative to endogenous effector T cells and use of reputed "Treg-friendly" agents, the host environment/immune effector mechanisms instigated under these conditions can perturb rather than favor the potential therapeutic efficacy of adoptively transferred Treg.

Association of COL1A1 polymorphism with subchondral bone degeneration of the temporomandibular joint

The G/T polymorphism of the COL1A1 gene exhibits a clinically significant influence on bone remodelling, leading to a predisposition to degenerative diseases. The enhancement of bone turnover and further loss of bone mass are thought to be the primary pathological changes in the early degenerative course of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ OA), with the appearance of low-density lesions. Thus, it was hypothesized that this polymorphism may also affect this type of bone lesion in TMJ OA. A total of 130 TMJ OA patients with low-density lesions (cortical bone erosion, condylar head resorption, cyst-like lesion) and 186 healthy individuals were recruited. DNA samples were extracted from buccal mucosa swabs; genotyping was performed by high-resolution melting assay. The distribution of genotypes in these groups was compared using a multivariate logistic regression model. No significant differences in the distributions of TT and TG genotypes were observed between the groups (P>0.05). Significance was detected for GG homozygous carriers (P=0.043); this genotype might be a risk factor for this type of low-density lesion (odds ratio 1.643, 95% confidence interval 1.016-2.658). This study indicates that the GG genotype might be a risk factor for low-density lesions in the TMJ.

Triptolide Improves Diabetic Nephropathy by Regulating Th Cell Balance and Macrophage Infiltration in Rat Models of Diabetic Nephropathy

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the therapeutic effect of triptolide (TP) on diabetic nephropathy (DN) in addition to its influence on helper T lymphocytes (Th) cells and monocytes/macrophages in rat models of DN.

METHODS

Diabetes was induced in rats by feeding them high-fat diets and administering low-dose streptozotocin (STZ); subsequently, they were treated with TP (6, 12, or 24 mg/kg/day respectively) for 4 weeks. The general characteristics of the rats and their kidney weight to body weight ratio were observed. Liver and kidney function tests, routine blood tests, and 24 h urine protein tests were performed. Histological and ultrastructural pathologic changes in the kidneys were examined. Changes in the proportion of Th1/Th2 cells in peripheral blood and CD4(+) T cells were measured. The serum levels of interferon (IFN)-γ, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-4, and IL-10 were determined and the expression of these 4 cytokines in the kidneys was measured. Expression of the CD68 macrophage surface marker as well as that of phospho-nuclear factor kappa B (p-NF-κB), NF-κB, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, fibronectin (FN), IL-12, and signal transducer and activator of transcription-4 (STAT4) was evaluated in the kidneys.

RESULTS

Elevated urine micro-albumin (UMA) and renal histological and ultrastructural changes were observed after the induction of diabetes. DN was associated with delayed immune-inflammatory responses induced by up-regulation of the proportion of Th1 cells and increase of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IFN-γ and TNF-α secreted by Th1 cells. In addition, down-regulation of the proportion of Th2 cells and decrease of the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4 and IL-10 secreted by Th2 cells were observed. TP could improve DN by regulating the Th1/Th2 cell balance. Macrophage infiltration as well as expression of inflammatory and pro-fibrogenic factors significantly increased in the kidneys of diabetic rats, which were suppressed by TP with the improvement in the medium-dose TP group (12 mg/kg/d) being the most significant.

CONCLUSION

TP can improve DN by regulating the Th1/Th2 cell balance and by reducing macrophage infiltration as well as the expression of relevant inflammatory factors in the kidney.

Association of Carney Complex with an Intronic Splice Site Mutation in the PRKAR1A Gene

This study was aimed to investigate the clinical features and mutations in the PRKAR1A gene of a multigenerational kindred including 17 individuals at risk for Carney complex. Eight patients were diagnosed with Carney complex among the 17 individuals (47.1%). Among the 8 affected patients, 4 had cardiac myxomas, 8 had skin pigmentation, and 3 had diabetes. Genomic DNA sequencing in 14 surviving patients showed 6 had the same germline mutation in the sixth intron and affected the splice site. cDNA sequencing and DNAMAN software showed 159 bases were absent, resulting in the absence of the amino acids 249 to 301 from the protein. All 6 patients with this PRKAR1A gene mutation had skin pigmentation. In conclusion, the present study reported for the first time an intronic splice site mutation in the PRKAR1A gene of a Chinese family with Carney complex, which probably caused skin pigmentation observed in affected family members.

Bifidobacterium longum BBMN68-specific modulated dendritic cells alleviate allergic responses to bovine β-lactoglobulin in mice

AIMS

This study was designed to demonstrate the protective effects of Bifidobacterium longum BBMN68-specific modulated dendritic cells (DCs) on allergic inflammation in β-lactoglobulin (BLG)-sensitized mice.

METHODS AND RESULTS

BALB/c mice were sensitized to BLG in accordance with a model of food allergy protocol and given oral BBMN68 daily. BBMN68 was found to significantly reduce BLG-specific hypersensitivity reactions by suppressing the aberrant balance of Th1/Th2 responses with increasing the number of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Treg cells in mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) by 48·1%. The level of CD103+DCs was up-regulated by 136·7 and 56·2% in payer's patches and MLN, respectively, in response to the lower expression levels of cell-surface molecules (CD86 and MHC-II) induced by BBMN68 supplementation. The CD11c+DCs isolated from BBMN68 mice showed 45·6% more Foxp3+ expression in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that BBMN68-specific induction of CD11c+CD103+DCs and semi-mature DCs reduce BLG allergic reactions.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

These data confirm that BBMN68 may be a suitable therapeutic approach to the alleviation of food allergies, and BBMN68-specific induction of CD11c+CD103+DCs and semi-mature DCs are associated with this protection.

The prospective self-controlled study of unilateral transverse process-pedicle and bilateral puncture techniques in percutaneous kyphoplasty

Many previous studies have reported excellent clinical results with percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP). In contrast, numerous complications and problems have also been reported, such as puncture difficulty, cement leakage, and adjacent vertebral fracture.

INTRODUCTION

This study is to evaluate the application and clinical outcomes of unilateral transverse process-pedicle and bilateral PKP in the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF).

METHODS

A total of 56 cases with two levels thoracolumbar OVCF were randomly assigned for treatment with unilateral transverse process-pedicle and bilateral PKP. The patients were followed up postoperatively and were assessed mainly with regard to clinical and radiologic outcomes. Clinical outcomes were evaluated with mainly the use of a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain. Radiologic outcomes were assessed mainly on the basis of radiation dose and bone cement distribution.

RESULTS

The operation was completed successfully in 56 cases. In the unilateral level, the operation time, the volume of the injected cement, and radiation dose were significantly less than bilateral level. All patients had significantly improvement on VAS score after the procedures, compared with their preoperative period. In the bilateral level, 7 patients had obvious pain in the puncture sites at 1 month postoperatively caused by facet joint violation. With local block treatment, the pain disappeared in all patients at the last follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Both bilateral and unilateral PKP are relatively safe and effective treatments for patients with painful OVCF. But unilateral PKP received less radiation dose and operation time, offered a higher degree of deformity correction, and resulted in less complication than bilateral.

Association of APOA1 gene polymorphisms (rs670, rs5069, and rs2070665) with dyslipidemia in the Kazakhs of Xinjiang

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential association between apolipoprotein A1 (APOA1) gene rs670, rs5069, and rs2070665 polymorphisms and dyslipidemia in the Kazakh population of Xinjiang, China. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) was used to identify APOA1 (rs670, rs5069, and rs2070665) genotypes in 736 subjects (341 dyslipidemia patients and 395 control subjects). The frequencies of the CC genotype for rs1421085 were found to be 7.2% (obese group), 4.4% (overweight group), and 5.6% (control group). Polymorphisms of the three loci of the APOA1 gene in Kazakh subjects met Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The frequencies of the A allele for rs670 were found to be 14.3% (dyslipidemia group) and 12.7% (control group). The frequencies of the T allele for rs5069 and rs2070665 were: dyslipidmia group (7.2 and 30.1%, respectively) and control group (7.7 and 32.5%, respectively). Frequency distributions of the 3 types of genotypes and alleles of the three loci showed no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05). Significant differences were observed in lipoprotein (α) [Lp(α)] between patients with the rs2070665 CT + TT and CC genotypes (P < 0.05); however, none of the other relevant indicators differed significantly between the two genotypes. No significant association was identified between rs670 or rs5069 and the lipid-related metabolic indices assessed in the study. These findings indicate that the polymorphisms in the APOA1 gene (rs670, rs5069, and rs2070665) are not associated with dyslipidemia in the Kazakh population assessed in this study.

Early blood purification therapy of severe acute pancreatitis complicated by acute lung injury

OBJECTIVE

Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) can often be complicated by acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), leading to increased mortality. Early blood purification clears inflammatory cytokines and promotes immune function recovery. Here we evaluated the usefulness of this therapy in SAP complicated by ALI.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

32 patients received routine treatment (control group), whereas other 32 patients received routine treatment and early blood purification therapy (study group). We evaluated respiratory indexes (PaO2, PaO2/FiO2, alveolar-arterial oxygen difference, intrapulmonary arteriovenous shunt percentage, and respiratory rate), blood biochemical (creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, alanine aminotransferase, and lactate levels) and inflammatory (CRP, IL-10, TNF-α, and IL-10/TNF-α ratio) markers, and prognostic outcomes (multiple organ dysfunction syndrome [MODS] and APACHE II scores) before and 72 hours after the treatment. We also documented mechanical ventilation use, occurrence of MODS and ARDS, and mortality rates.

RESULTS

There were no deaths. Mechanical ventilation was used in a similar percentage of patients in either group. Treatment in study group led to a faster and better recovery of respiratory indexes, and less pronounced changes in the levels of blood urea nitrogen and alanine aminotransferase. Inflammatory markers also normalized better in the study group. Furthermore, MODS and APACHE II scores decreased to a greater extent in the study group, paralleled by a lower occurrence of MPDS and ARDS.

CONCLUSIONS

Early blood purification therapy improves respiratory function and inflammatory markers in patients with SAP complicated by ALI, and decreases the occurrence of MODS and ARDS.

Higher order mode suppression in high-Q anomalous dispersion SiN microresonators for temporal dissipative Kerr soliton formation

High-Q silicon nitride (SiN) microresonators enable optical Kerr frequency comb generation on a photonic chip and have recently been shown to support fully coherent combs based on temporal dissipative Kerr soliton formation. For bright soliton formation, it is necessary to operate SiN waveguides in the multimode regime in order to produce waveguide induced anomalous group velocity dispersion. However, this regime can lead to local disturbances of the dispersion due to avoided crossings caused by coupling between different mode families and, therefore, prevent the soliton formation. Here, we demonstrate that a single-mode "filtering" section inside high-Q resonators enables efficiently suppression of avoided crossings, while preserving high quality factors (Q∼10(6)). We verify the approach by demonstrating single soliton formation in SiN resonators with a filtering section.

Ambient volatile organic compounds and their effect on ozone production in Wuhan, central China

Ambient volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were continuously measured from February 2013 to October 2014 at an urban site in Wuhan. The characteristics and sources of VOCs and their effect on ozone (O3) formation were studied for the first time. The total VOC levels in Wuhan were relatively low, and of all VOCs, ethane (5.2 ± 0.2 ppbv) was the species with the highest levels. Six sources, i.e., vehicular exhausts, coal burning, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) usage, the petrochemical industry, solvent usage in dry cleaning/degreasing, and solvent usage in coating/paints were identified, and their contributions to the total VOCs were 27.8 ± 0.9%, 21.8 ± 0.8%, 19.8 ± 0.9%, 14.4 ± 0.9%, 8.5 ± 0.5%, and 7.7 ± 0.4%, respectively. Model simulation of a photochemical box model incorporating the Master Chemical Mechanism (PBM-MCM) indicated that the contribution to O3 formation of the above sources was 23.4 ± 1.3%, 22.2 ± 1.2%, 23.1 ± 1.7%, 11.8 ± 0.9%, 5.2 ± 0.4%, and 14.2 ± 1.1%, respectively. LPG and solvent usage in coating/paints were the sources that showed higher contributions to O3 formation, compared to their contributions to VOCs. The relative incremental reactivity (RIR) analysis revealed that the O3 formation in Wuhan was generally VOC-limited, and ethene and toluene were the primary species contributing to O3 production, accounting for 34.3% and 31.5% of the total RIR-weighted concentration, respectively. In addition, the contribution of CO to the O3 formation was remarkable. The C4 alkanes and alkenes from the LPG usage also significantly contributed to the O3 formation. The results can assist local governments in formulating and implementing control strategies for photochemical pollution.

Pterostilbene induces apoptosis through caspase activation in ovarian cancer cells

AIM

Pterostilbene, an analog of resveratrol increasing bioavailability has shown to offer antioxidant and anticancer properties in vitro and in vivo. Dietary compounds with anti-oxidant properties have been shown to gain importance due to therapeutic applications. In addition, compounds with higher bioavailability levels show great interest in present scenario. Thus, the present study aimed at investigating the cytotoxic role of pterostilbene and its mechanism of cell death in ovarian cancer cells line.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effect of pterostilbene was determined on SKOV-3 cells, by cytotoxicity assays, oxidative stress levels, [Ca2+]i levels, mitochondrial depolarization, cell cycle analysis and caspase 3, 8, and 9 activities.

RESULTS

The study revealed that pterostilbene offered cytotoxic effect at a concentration of IC50-55 uM. Further, pterostilbene induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) mediated intrinsic pathway of apoptosis through enhancing oxidative stress, [Ca2+]i levels, mitochondrial depolarization, Sub G1 accumulation, and activation of caspase 3 and 9.

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrates for the first time the cytotoxic potential of pterostilbene against ovarian cancer cells.

Association between polymorphisms of fat mass and obesity-associated gene and metabolic syndrome in Kazakh adults of Xinjiang, China

The aim of this study was to assess the association between three FTO polymorphisms (rs9939609, rs8057044, and rs1421085) and metabolic syndrome (MS)-related outcomes in the low-income, rural, nomadic minority Khazakh population in far western China. A total of 489 subjects (245 MS patients, 244 controls) were included in the study and DNA samples were genotyped for the three polymorphisms by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry. The frequencies of the rs1421085 and rs9939609 genotypes and alleles did not differ significantly between MS patients and control, while the frequencies of rs8057044 G alleles and GG genotypes were higher in MS patients (P < 0.05) than in control subjects (G: 61.16 vs 53.53%, GG: 39.07 vs 29.05%) and the frequencies of rs8057044 A genotypes and alleles were lower (P < 0.05) in MS patients compared with controls (AA: 17.36 vs 21.99%, A: 38.84 vs 46.47%). Risk analysis of the rs8057044 polymorphism revealed individuals with GA and GG genotypes to have 1.112 and 1.731 times higher risks of developing MS than those with the AA genotype, respectively, while the G allele was found to be associated with a 1.367 times higher risk of developing MS compared with the A allele. These apparent correlations, however, did not hold true when adjusted for BMI. Weight, WC, HC, and BMI differed significantly between rs8057044 GG and AA+GA genotypes (P < 0.05).

Searching for New Spin- and Velocity-Dependent Interactions by Spin Relaxation of Polarized ^{3}He Gas

We have constrained possible new interactions which produce nonrelativistic potentials between polarized neutrons and unpolarized matter proportional to ασ[over →]·v[over →] where σ[over →] is the neutron spin and v[over →] is the relative velocity. We use existing data from laboratory measurements on the very long T_{1} and T_{2} spin relaxation times of polarized ^{3}He gas in glass cells. Using the best available measured T_{2} of polarized ^{3}He gas atoms as the polarized source and the Earth as an unpolarized source, we obtain constraints on two new interactions. We present a new experimental upper bound on possible vector-axial-vector (V_{VA}) type interactions for ranges between 1 and 10^{8} m. In combination with previous results, we set the most stringent experiment limits on g_{V}g_{A} ranging from ~μm to ~10^{8} m. We also report what is to our knowledge the first experimental upper limit on the possible torsion fields induced by the Earth on its surface. Dedicated experiments could further improve these bounds by a factor of ~100. Our method of analysis also makes it possible to probe many velocity dependent interactions which depend on the spins of both neutrons and other particles which have never been searched for before experimentally.

A dead-zone free ⁴He atomic magnetometer with intensity-modulated linearly polarized light and a liquid crystal polarization rotator

We demonstrate an all-optical (4)He atomic magnetometer experimental scheme based on an original Bell-Bloom configuration. A single intensity-modulated linearly polarized laser beam is used both for generating spin polarization within a single (4)He vapor and probing the spin precessing under a static magnetic field. The transmitted light signal from the vapor is then phase-sensitively detected at the modulation frequency and its harmonics, which lead to the atomic magnetic resonance signals. Based on this structure, a liquid crystal is added in our magnetometer system and constitutes a polarization rotator. By controlling the voltage applied on the liquid crystal, the light linear polarization vector can be kept perpendicular with the ambient magnetic field direction, which in turn provides the maximum resonance signal amplitude. Moreover, the system exhibits a magnetic-field noise floor of about 2pT/√Hz, which is not degraded due to the presence of the liquid crystal and varying magnetic field direction. The experiment results prove that our method can eliminate the dead-zone effect, improve the system spatial isotropy, and thus be suitable in mobile applications.

Upregulation of fibroblast growth factor 1 in the synovial membranes of patients with late stage osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease of the systemic joint that involves multiple cytokines and growth factors. Fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF-1) is increased in patients with rheumatic arthritis. The aim of this study was to determine whether the expression and secretion of FGF-1 differed in synovial tissue from patients with late stage OA from that in normal tissues. We selected eight patients with late stage OA and eight healthy donors for this study. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine the amount of FGF-1 in the synovial fluid and in the culture medium of synovial fibroblasts. Real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis was performed to examine the expression levels of FGF-1 and FGF receptor 2 (FGFR2) in synovial and cartilage tissues. We detected FGF-1 in the synovial fluid from all eight donors, as well as in the culture medium of synovial fibroblasts. Synovial fluid from patients with OA and culture medium of OA synovial fibroblasts contained significantly more FGF-1 than those from controls. FGF-1 expression was also lower in the synovial membranes of normal donors than in those of OA patients. FGFR2 expression was also higher in OA cartilage than in normal cartilage. Overall, these results demonstrated that FGF-1 synthesis and secretion by synovial fibroblasts were significantly increased in OA. FGFR2 expression was also shown to be upregulated in patients with OA. These findings suggest that increased FGF-1 signaling correlates with an OA pathological condition.

Characterization and source identification of sub-micron particles at the HKUST Supersite in Hong Kong

Particle size distribution measurements were conducted continuously at a 30-second interval using the Fast Mobility Particle Sizer (FMPS) in August, September, November and December of 2011 at a coastal background site in Hong Kong. Concurrent measurements of CO, NOx, O3, SO2 and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were used to determine the causes of high particle number concentration (PNC) events. In all sampling months, PNC were usually higher in the evening, likely resulting from the arrival of upwind air pollutants as wind direction changed in the late afternoon. On the more polluted days, the PNC were usually higher around noon, particularly in August, similar to the diurnal trend of O3. The mode diameter at noon was smaller than in other time periods in all sampling months, further highlighting the role of secondary formation at this urban background site. A prolonged period of pollution episode occurred in late August. High PNC resulted from the arrival of pollution laden air from the PRD region or super regions. In December, new particle formation followed by subsequent growth accounted for most of the polluted days. Overall, meteorology was the most important parameter affecting particle concentrations and formation at this Hong Kong background site.

Combined effects of girdling and leaf removal on fluorescence characteristic of Alhagi sparsifolia leaf senescence

Plant senescence is largely influenced by carbohydrate content. In order to investigate the impact of carbohydrate content on leaf senescence and photosystem II (PSII) during the senescence process, phloem girdling (PG), leaf removal (LR) and a combination of phloem girdling and leaf removal (GR) were performed on Alhagi sparsifolia (Fabaceae) at the end of the growing season. The results showed that during senescence, leaf soluble sugar content, starch content, the energy absorbed by the unit reaction centre (ABS/RC) increased; whereas, leaf photosynthetic rate, photosynthetic pigment content, maximum photochemical efficiency (φPo ) and energy used by the acceptor site in electron transfer (ETo/RC) decreased. The degree of change was PG > GR > CK (control) > LR. The results of the present work implied that phloem girdling (PG) significantly accelerated leaf senescence, and that single leaf removal (LR) slightly delayed leaf senescence; although leaf removal significantly delayed the senescence process on the girdled leaf (GR). Natural or delayed senescence only slightly inhibited the acceptor site of PSII and did not damage the donor site of PSII. On the other hand, induced senescence not only damaged the donor site of PSII (e.g. oxygen-evolving complex), but also significantly inhibited the acceptor site of PSII. In addition, leaf senescence led to an increase in the energy absorbed by the unit reaction centre (ABS/RC), which subsequently resulted in increasing excitation pressure in the reaction centre (DIo/RC), as well as additional saved Car for absorbing residual light energy and quenching reactive oxygen species during senescence.

Blockade of Extracellular HMGB1 Suppresses Xenoreactive B Cell Responses and Delays Acute Vascular Xenogeneic Rejection

Blockade of extracellular high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) can significantly prolong murine cardiac allograft survival. Here, we determined the role of HMGB1 in xenotransplantation. Sprague-Dawley rat hearts were transplanted heterotopically into BALB/c mice. Xenografts without any treatment developed predominant acute vascular rejection within 6 days. Both passively released HMGB1 from xenografts and actively secreted HMGB1 from infiltrated immune cells were significantly increased after xenotransplantation. HMGB1-neutralizing antibody treatment significantly prolonged xenograft survival and attenuated pathologic damage, immune cell infiltration, and HMGB1 expression and release in the xenografts. Compared to control IgG treatment evaluated at study endpoint, treatment with HMGB1-neutralizing antibody markedly suppressed xenoreactive B cell responses, as evidenced by the significant inhibition of anti-rat antibody production and deposition in xenografts at Day 6 posttransplant. Furthermore, treatment with anti-HMGB1 antibody suppressed B cell activation and reduced IFN-γ and IL-17A production after xenotransplantation. These results demonstrate for the first time that HMGB1 plays an important role in mediating acute xenograft rejection. Thus, we have shown that neutralization of extracellular HMGB1 can significantly inhibit xenoreactive B cell responses and delay xenograft rejection in a rat-to-mouse model of xenotransplantation, uncovering new insights in the role of HMGB1 in transplantation.

Dye-sensitized InGaN nanowire arrays for efficient hydrogen production under visible light irradiation

Solar water splitting is a key sustainable energy technology for clean, storable and renewable source of energy in the future. Here we report that Merocyanine-540 dye-sensitized and Rh nanoparticle-decorated molecular beam epitaxially grown In0.25Ga0.75N nanowire arrays have produced hydrogen from ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and acetonitrile mixture solution under green, yellow and orange solar spectra (up to 610 nm) for the first time. An apparent quantum efficiency of 0.3% is demonstrated for wavelengths 525-600 nm, providing a viable approach to harness deep-visible and near-infrared solar energy for efficient and stable water splitting.

Polymorphisms in the PPARγ gene and their association with metabolic syndrome in Uyghurs and Kazakhs from Xinjiang, China

We investigated the association between polymorphisms rs1801282 and rs3856806 of the PPARγ gene and metabolic syndrome (MS) among Uyghurs and Kazakhs. Mass spectrometry techniques were used to detect the PPARγ genotypes rs1801282 and rs3856806 in 987 subjects, CC genotype and C allele frequencies were 83.6 and 91.7%, respectively, at rs1801282 in Kazakhs, which were higher than those in Uyghurs (72.3 and 85.0%, respectively; P < 0.05). CC genotype and C allele frequencies were 73.6 and 85.3%, respectively, at the rs3856806 loci in Kazakhs, which were higher than those in Uyghurs (60.7 and 77.9%, respectively; P < 0.05). For the rs3856806 polymorphism in Kazakhs, CT/TT genotype and T allele frequencies were 21.2 and 12.4% for MS subjects, which were lower than those for the control group (31.6 and 17.0%, respectively; P < 0.05). Risk analysis of Kazakhs revealed that individuals with the CT and TT genotypes at rs3856806 had an increased risk, 0.524- and 0.770-fold, respectively, of developing MS than those possessing the CC genotype. Individuals with the T allele also had an increase in risk, by 0.699-fold, of developing MS than those with the C allele. For Uyghurs, those with the CC genotype at rs1801282 had higher systolic blood pressure than those with the CG/GG genotype. Among Kazakhs, those with the CC genotype at rs3856806 had higher triglyceride and waist-hip ratio levels but lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels than those with the CT/TT genotype. The rs1801282 and rs3856806 PPARγ polymorphisms differ between Uyghurs and Kazakhs from Xinjiang Province, China.

Sequential monitoring and stability of ex vivo-expanded autologous and nonautologous regulatory T cells following infusion in nonhuman primates

Ex vivo-expanded cynomolgus monkey CD4(+)CD25(+)CD127(-) regulatory T cells (Treg) maintained Foxp3 demethylation status at the Treg-specific demethylation region, and potently suppressed T cell proliferation through three rounds of expansion. When carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester- or violet proliferation dye 450-labeled autologous (auto) and nonautologous (non-auto)-expanded Treg were infused into monkeys, the number of labeled auto-Treg in peripheral blood declined rapidly during the first week, but persisted at low levels in both normal and anti-thymocyte globulin plus rapamycin-treated (immunosuppressed; IS) animals for at least 3 weeks. By contrast, MHC-mismatched non-auto-Treg could not be detected in normal monkey blood or in blood of two out of the three IS monkeys by day 6 postinfusion. They were also more difficult to detect than auto-Treg in peripheral lymphoid tissue. Both auto- and non-auto-Treg maintained Ki67 expression early after infusion. Sequential monitoring revealed that adoptively transferred auto-Treg maintained similarly high levels of Foxp3 and CD25 and low CD127 compared with endogenous Treg, although Foxp3 staining diminished over time in these nontransplanted recipients. Thus, infused ex vivo-expanded auto-Treg persist longer than MHC-mismatched non-auto-Treg in blood of nonhuman primates and can be detected in secondary lymphoid tissue. Host lymphodepletion and rapamycin administration did not consistently prolong the persistence of non-auto-Treg in these sites.

Involvement of SRPK1 in cisplatin resistance related to long non-coding RNA UCA1 in human ovarian cancer cells

The therapeutic potential of cisplatin in ovarian cancer treatment is restricted by the occurrence of cellular resistance. We aimed to explore the role of SRPK1 in cisplatin resistance related to the long non-coding RNA UCA1 in ovarian cancer cell.Totally, 24 ovarian cancer tissues and 16 normal tissues were used to assess the expression of UCA1 RNA. UCA1 stable transfected SKOV3 cells were established and the ability of cell migration, invasion and cisplatin resistance was assessed. The expression of SRPK1 and apoptosis pathway proteins was then assessed to explore the mechanism. In addition, SRPK1 knockdown cell line was also established and the effects of SRPK1 on cell migration, invasion and cisplatin resistance was evaluated.Elevated expression of UCA1 RNA was identified in ovarian cancer tissues compared with normal tissues. Expression of UCA1 RNA in SKOV3 cells enhanced the cell migration, invasion and cisplatin resistance. Increased expression of SRPK1 and anti-apoptosis proteins were found in SKOV3/pcDNA-UCA1 cells. Knocking-down SRPK1 could partly rescue the effect of UCA1 expression on cell migration, invasion and cisplatin resistance in SKOV3 cells.Elevated expression of UCA1 RNA was found in ovarian cancer tissues. UCA1 can improve the cell migration, invasion and induce cisplatin resistance. SRPK1 and apoptosis pathway proteins may be involved in the effect of UCA1.

Overexpression of the A-FABP gene facilitates intermuscular fat deposition in transgenic mice

Adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein (A-FABP), the most abundant FABP in adipocytes, controls fatty acid uptake, transport, and metabolism in fat cells. We constructed a transgenic mice model that overexpressed the cattle A-FABP gene to investigate the relationship between A-FABP expression and intermuscular fat deposition. There was no significant difference in body weight and serum biochemical indexes between transgenic and wild-type mice. Further, there were no significant differences in intermuscular triglyceride content and A-FABP expression levels over three generations of transgenic mice. However, abdominal adipose rate, A-FABP protein content, and intermuscular triglyceride levels of transgenic mice were significantly higher than those of wild-type mice. In addition, triglycerides were remarkably higher in the skeletal muscle but lower in the myocardium of transgenic mice. Thus, overexpression of cattle A-FABP gene promoted fat deposition in the skeletal muscle of transgenic mice.

Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration (Beery-VMI): lessons from exploration of cultural variations in visual-motor integration performance of preschoolers

BACKGROUND

Visual-motor integration (VMI) is important in children's development because it is associated with the performance of many functional skills. Deficits in VMI have been linked to difficulties in academic performance and functional tasks. Clinical assessment experience of occupational therapists in Singapore suggested that there is a potential difference between the VMI performance of Singaporean and American children. Cross-cultural studies also implied that culture has an influence on a child's VMI performance, as it shapes the activities that a child participates in. The purpose of this study was to (1) explore if there was a difference between the VMI performance of Singaporean and American preschoolers, and (2) determine if there were ethnic differences in the VMI performance of Singaporean preschoolers.

METHODS

The Beery-VMI, which was standardized in America, is commonly used by occupational therapists in Singapore to assess the VMI ability of children. We administered the Beery-VMI (fifth edition) full form test (excluding the supplemental tests) to 385 preschoolers (mean age = 63.3 months) from randomly selected schools in Singapore. We compared the scores of Singaporean preschoolers with those of the American standardization norms using the one-sample t-test. Scores of different ethnic groups among the Singapore population were also compared using a one-way anova, followed by the Bonferroni post-hoc test.

RESULTS

Singaporean preschoolers and the standardization sample of American children performed significantly differently in all age groups (P < 0.05). Among the Singapore population, the scores were also significantly different (P < 0.05) between the (i) Chinese and Malay and (ii) Chinese and Indians ethnic groups.

CONCLUSION

Preschoolers from different cultural and ethnic groups had different VMI performance. Certain cultural beliefs and practices may affect VMI performance. Clinicians should exercise caution when using an assessment in communities and cultures outside the ones on which it was standardized.

Aluminum nitride nanowire light emitting diodes: Breaking the fundamental bottleneck of deep ultraviolet light sources

Despite broad interest in aluminum gallium nitride (AlGaN) optoelectronic devices for deep ultraviolet (DUV) applications, the performance of conventional Al(Ga)N planar devices drastically decays when approaching the AlN end, including low internal quantum efficiencies (IQEs) and high device operation voltages. Here we show that these challenges can be addressed by utilizing nitrogen (N) polar Al(Ga)N nanowires grown directly on Si substrate. By carefully tuning the synthesis conditions, a record IQE of 80% can be realized with N-polar AlN nanowires, which is nearly ten times higher compared to high quality planar AlN. The first 210 nm emitting AlN nanowire light emitting diodes (LEDs) were achieved, with a turn on voltage of about 6 V, which is significantly lower than the commonly observed 20 – 40 V. This can be ascribed to both efficient Mg doping by controlling the nanowire growth rate and N-polarity induced internal electrical field that favors hole injection. In the end, high performance N-polar AlGaN nanowire LEDs with emission wavelengths covering the UV-B/C bands were also demonstrated.

Simulation of ozone formation at different elevations in mountainous area of Hong Kong using WRF-CMAQ model

Field measurements were simultaneously conducted at a mountain (Mt.) site (Tai Mao Shan, TMS) and an urban site (Tsuen Wan, TW) at the foot of the Mt. TMS in Hong Kong. An interesting event with consecutive high-ozone (O₃) days from 08:00 on 28 Oct. to 23:00 on 03 Nov., 2010 was observed at Mt. TMS, while no such polluted event was found at the foot of the mountain. The Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF)-Community Multiscale Air Quality (CMAQ) models were used to understand this event. Model performance evaluation showed that the simulated meteorological parameters and air pollutants were well in agreement with the observations. The index of agreement (IOA) of temperature, relative humidity, wind direction and wind speed were 0.93, 0.83, 0.46 and 0.60, respectively. The multi-day high O₃ episode at Mt. TMS was also reasonably reproduced (IOA=0.68). Horizontally, the photochemical processes determined the O₃ levels in southwestern Pearl River Delta (PRD) and the Pearl River Estuary (PRE), while in eastern and northern PRD, the O₃ destruction was over the production during the event. Vertically, higher O₃ values at higher levels were found at both Mt. TMS and TW, indicating a vertical O₃ gradient over Hong Kong. With the aid of the process analysis module, we found positive contribution of vertical transport including advection and diffusion to O₃ mixing ratios at the two sites, suggesting that O₃ values at lower locations could be affected by O₃ at higher locations via vertical advection and diffusion over Hong Kong.