C/EBPβ: A transcription factor associated with the irreversible progression of Alzheimer's disease

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder distinguished by a swift cognitive deterioration accompanied by distinctive pathological hallmarks such as extracellular Aβ (β-amyloid) peptides, neuronal neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), sustained neuroinflammation, and synaptic degeneration. The elevated frequency of AD cases and its proclivity to manifest at a younger age present a pressing challenge in the quest for novel therapeutic interventions. Numerous investigations have substantiated the involvement of C/EBPβ in the progression of AD pathology, thus indicating its potential as a therapeutic target for AD treatment.

AIMS

Several studies have demonstrated an elevation in the expression level of C/EBPβ among individuals afflicted with AD. Consequently, this review predominantly delves into the association between C/EBPβ expression and the pathological progression of Alzheimer's disease, elucidating its underlying molecular mechanism, and pointing out the possibility that C/EBPβ can be a new therapeutic target for AD.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed across multiple databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and so on, utilizing predetermined keywords and MeSH terms, without temporal constraints. The inclusion criteria encompassed diverse study designs, such as experimental, case-control, and cohort studies, restricted to publications in the English language, while conference abstracts and unpublished sources were excluded.

RESULTS

Overexpression of C/EBPβ exacerbates the pathological features of AD, primarily by promoting neuroinflammation and mediating the transcriptional regulation of key molecular pathways, including δ-secretase, apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4), acidic leucine-rich nuclear phosphoprotein-32A (ANP32A), transient receptor potential channel 1 (TRPC1), and Forkhead BoxO (FOXO).

DISCUSSION

The correlation between overexpression of C/EBPβ and the pathological development of AD, along with its molecular mechanisms, is evident. Investigating the pathways through which C/EBPβ regulates the development of AD reveals numerous multiple vicious cycle pathways exacerbating the pathological progression of the disease. Furthermore, the exacerbation of pathological progression due to C/EBPβ overexpression and its molecular mechanism is not limited to AD but also extends to other neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson's disease (PD), and multiple sclerosis (MS).

CONCLUSION

The overexpression of C/EBPβ accelerates the irreversible progression of AD pathophysiology. Additionally, C/EBPβ plays a crucial role in mediating multiple pathways linked to AD pathology, some of which engender vicious cycles, leading to the establishment of feedback mechanisms. To sum up, targeting C/EBPβ could hold promise as a therapeutic strategy not only for AD but also for other degenerative diseases.

Association between human blood metabolome and the risk of delirium: a Mendelian Randomization study

Background

Delirium significantly contributes to both mortality and morbidity among hospitalized older adults. Furthermore, delirium leads to escalated healthcare expenditures, extended hospital stays, and enduring cognitive deterioration, all of which are acknowledged detrimental outcomes. Nonetheless, the current strategies for predicting and managing delirium remain constrained. Our aim was to employ Mendelian randomization (MR) to investigate the potential causal relationship between metabolites and delirium, as well as to identify potential therapeutic targets.

Methods

We identified 129 distinct blood metabolites from three genome-wide association studies (GWASs) conducted on the metabolome, involving a total of 147,827 participants of European descent. Genetic information pertaining to delirium was sourced from the ninth iteration of the Finngen Biobank, encompassing 359,699 individuals of Finnish ancestry. We conducted MR analyses to evaluate the connections between blood metabolites and delirium. Additionally, we extended our analysis to encompass the entire phenome using MR, aiming to uncover potential on-target consequences resulting from metabolite interventions.

Results

In our investigation, we discovered three metabolites serving as causal mediators in the context of delirium: clinical low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (odds ratio [OR]: 1.47, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.25-1.73, p = 3.92 x 10-6), sphingomyelin (OR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.25-1.74, p = 5.97 x 10-6), and X-11593-O-methylascorbate (OR: 0.21, 95% CI: 0.10-0.43, p = 1.86 x 10-5). Furthermore, utilizing phenome-wide MR analysis, we discerned that clinical LDL-C, sphingomyelin, and O-methylascorbate not only mediate delirium susceptibility but also impact the risk of diverse ailments.

Limitations

(1) Limited representation of the complete blood metabolome, (2) reliance on the PheCode system based on hospital diagnoses may underrepresent conditions with infrequent hospital admissions, and (3) limited to European ancestry.

Conclusion

The genetic prediction of heightened O-methylascorbate levels seems to correspond to a diminished risk of delirium, in contrast to the association of elevated clinical LDL-C and sphingomyelin levels with an amplified risk. A comprehensive analysis of side-effect profiles has been undertaken to facilitate the prioritization of drug targets. Notably, O-methylascorbate emerges as a potentially auspicious target for mitigating and treating delirium, offering the advantage of lacking predicted adverse side effects.

[A study on knowledge, attitude, and vaccination behavior of herpes zoster vaccine among urban residents in selected areas of China]

Objective: To understand the knowledge, attitude, and current status of vaccination of herpes zoster vaccination among urban residents aged 25 years and above in China. Methods: In August to October 2022, a convenience sampling method was used to survey residents aged 25 years and above at 36 community centers in 9 cities across China. Questionnaires were used to collect basic information, knowledge, and attitude toward herpes zoster and its vaccination, as well as vaccination status and reasons for non-vaccination among residents. Results: A total of 2 864 urban residents were included in the study. The total score of residents' cognition of herpes zoster and its vaccine was 3.01±2.08, and the total score of their attitude was 18.25±2.76. Factors such as being male (β=-0.45, P<0.001), older than 40-59 years (β=-0.34, P=0.023) or ≥60 years (β=-0.68, P<0.001), married (β=-0.69, P=0.002) were negatively associated with knowledge score. The educational level of high school or secondary school (β=0.44, P=0.036), college (β=0.65, P=0.006), bachelor's degree and above (β=1.20, P<0.001), annual net household income ≥120 000 Yuan in 2021 (β=0.42, P=0.020), having urban employee medical insurance (β=0.62, P=0.030), having public or commercial medical insurance (β=0.65, P=0.033), and having a history of chickenpox (β=0.29, P=0.025) were positively associated with knowledge scores. Being male (β=-0.38, P=0.008) and not remembering a history of chickenpox (β=-0.49, P=0.012) were negatively associated with attitude scores. Annual net household income in 2021 was between 40 000-80 000 Yuan (β=0.44, P=0.032) or between 80 000-120 000 Yuan (β=0.62, P=0.002) or ≥120 000 Yuan (β=0.93, P<0.001), and a history of herpes zoster (β=0.59, P=0.004) were positively associated with attitude scores. Of the 2 864 residents surveyed, only 29 (1.01%) had received the herpes zoster vaccine, with a vaccination rate of 1.70% for those aged 50 years and above, with the main reason for non-vaccination being lack of knowledge about the herpes zoster vaccine, followed by the high price. 42.67% of the population said they would consider getting the herpes zoster vaccine in the future. Conclusion: Low knowledge of herpes zoster and its vaccine, positive attitudes towards the preventive effects of herpes zoster and its vaccine, and extremely low vaccination rates among the urban population in China call for multiple measures to strengthen health education and vaccination recommendations for residents, especially for the elderly, low-education and low-income populations.

MicroRNA-214-3p Ameliorates LPS-Induced Cardiomyocyte Injury by Inhibiting Cathepsin B

Myocardial injury is a common complication of sepsis. MicroRNA (miRNA) miR-214-3p is protective against myocardial injury caused by sepsis, but its mechanism in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- induced cardiomyocyte injury is still unclear. An AC16 cell injury model was induced by LPS treatment. Cell Counting Kit-8 and flow cytometry assay showed decreased cell viability and increased apoptosis in LPS-treated AC16 cells. The levels of caspase- 3, Bax, atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), myosin 6 (Myh6), myosin 7 (Myh7), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were increased in LPS-treated AC16 cells, but the levels of Bcl-2 and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were decreased. MiR-214-3p was down-regulated and cathepsin B (CTSB) was upregulated in LPS-treated AC16 cells. At the same time, miR-214-3p could target CTSB and reduce its expression. We also found that a miR-214-3p mimic or CTSB silencing could significantly reduce LPSinduced apoptosis, decrease ROS, MDA, caspase-3, and Bax and increase SOD and Bcl-2. CTSB silencing could significantly reduce ANP, BNP, Myh6, and Myh7 in LPS-treated AC16 cells. The effects of CTSB silencing were reversed by a miR-214-3p inhibitor. In summary, miR-214-3p could inhibit LPSinduced myocardial injury by targeting CTSB, which provides a new idea for myocardial damage caused by sepsis.

Polysaccharide source altered ecological network, functional profile, and short-chain fatty acid production in a porcine gut microbiota

Several validated dynamic in vitro models of the colon have been developed for humans, but there is no dynamic in vitro fermentation model for pigs. This study was conducted to modify the human, dynamic, computer-controlled TNO in vitro model of the colon (TIM-2) for pigs and investigate effects of different starch sources and polysaccharides on swine microbiota structure, ecological network, predictive functional profile, and short-chain fatty acids production. Our study showed that three different types of starch or two polysaccharides greatly impacted microbiota composition. Co-occurrence network analysis indicated that microbiota fed with different sources of starch changed the network topological properties. Functional profiles were predicted to vary significantly among the three starch treatments, and the original pig faecal inoculum was more similar to maize starch treatment. On the other hand, compared with maize starch and arabinoxylans (AX), the microbial composition of the original inoculum was more similar when AX-XG (arabinoxylans and xyloglucan) were added, and the functional profile of the original inoculum also clustered with AX-XG. The cumulative production of acetic, propionic, and butyric acid on maize starch were significantly higher than those on potato starch and wheat starch, while only the amount of acetic acid was significant higher on AX-XG than that on AX. In conclusion, supplementation of maize starch as the starch source together with AX and XG, leads to the bacteria being more stable in the in vitro model and closer to the original inoculum and microbial function compared to potato starch, wheat starch and AX. A maize basal diet may improve energy absorption in the large intestine in growing pigs.

Pediatric robotic-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty: Does age matter?

BACKGROUND

Although shown to be safe in infancy, robotic-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (RALP) for ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is most commonly performed in older children and adolescents.

OBJECTIVE

This study examined a contemporary RALP experience at a single tertiary pediatric center and compared outcomes in infants aged ≤1 year with an older cohort.

METHODS AND DESIGN

All RALP procedures were entered into an Institutional Review Board-approved data registry from 2012 to 2016. Patients were retrospectively grouped according to age. The primary outcome was success rate. Secondary outcomes included complications and length of hospital stay. Failure was defined as the need for secondary surgical intervention for UPJO or worsening urinary tract dilation on imaging. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 20. Mann-Whitney U testing was used for comparison.

RESULTS

A total of 138 patients underwent RALP during 2012-2016, with a median age of 6 years (IQR 1, 13.25) and a male:female ratio of approximately 2:1. Of these, 34 (24.6%) were aged ≤1 year. Of all patients, 60 (43.5%) presented with a history of prenatal hydronephrosis, and 32% had a crossing vessel causing obstruction. An indwelling stent was placed in antegrade fashion in 71% of cases, and 18% had a percutaneously placed externalized stent. There were six (4%) failures requiring reoperation. Multivariate and comparative analysis demonstrated that the infant cohort utilized less morphine equivalents and more often had a percutaneous stent placed compared to the older cohort. Of the complications that occurred, 60% were minor (Clavien grades 1 and 2) and 40% were Clavien grade 3 in the infant cohort, and 70.1% and 29.9% in the older cohort, respectively. No studied criteria predicted failure in either cohort.

CONCLUSION

This study presented one of the largest contemporary series of consecutive pediatric RALPs, and showed an overall success rate of 96%. There were no significant differences in length of hospital stay, and complications or failure rates in infants compared to older children. This study substantiated the ongoing trend towards the adaptation of robotic-assisted surgery for the entire pediatric patient population.

Association between androgen receptor polymorphic CAG and GGC repeat lengths and cryptorchidism: A meta-analysis of case-control studies

INTRODUCTION

Previous studies have revealed the relationship between androgen receptor (AR) CAG and/or GGC polymorphisms and risk of cryptorchidism, yet the results have been elusive and controversial.

AIM

To determine whether AR polymorphic CAG and/or GGC repeats are related to cryptorchidism.

STUDY DESIGN

The relevant studies were obtained from PubMed, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang. The pooled odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess the strength of associations. Subgroup analyses were performed based on ethnicity and source of controls. Moreover, Begg's funnel plots and Egger's linear regression test were conducted to determine publication bias.

RESULTS

Eight case-control studies containing 321 patients and 784 normal controls were included. There was a significant association between longer CAG repeats and cryptorchidism risk (weighted mean difference (WMD) = 0.62; 95% CIs 0.06, 1.18; P = 0.031). Moreover, there was a significant association between the longer GGC repeats and cryptorchidism risk (WMD = 0.87; 95% CIs 0.04, 1.74; P = 0.040). There was significant association between the longer CAG repeats and bilateral cryptorchidism (WMD = 0.88; 95% CIs -0.18, 1.94; P = 0.011), while there was no significant association between the longer CAG repeats and unilateral cryptorchidism (WMD = -0.09; 95% CIs -0.50, 0.31; P = 0.554). There were significant associations between the longer GGC repeats and unilateral cryptorchidism (WMD = 0.88; 95% CIs -0.30, 2.05; P = 0.005) and bilateral cryptorchidism (WMD = 1.35; 95% CIs -0.52, 3.21; P = 0.000). Stratifying analysis revealed an association between longer CAG/GGC repeats and cryptorchidism in Caucasian populations from Europe (WMD = 0.73; 95% CIs 0.00, 1.46; P = 0.017), while there was no association with Asian populations.

DISCUSSION

This meta-analysis found that CAG/GGC repeats in the AR gene were longer in cryptorchidism patients compared to controls. Both the longer CAG repeats and GGC repeats in the AR gene were associated with cryptorchidism risk. The longer CAG repeats were associated with bilateral cryptorchidism, whereas the longer GGC repeats were associated with unilateral and bilateral cryptorchidism. Stratifying analysis revealed an association between longer CAG/GGC repeats and cryptorchidism in Caucasian populations from Europe, while there was no association between longer CAG/GGC repeats and cryptorchidism in Asian populations.

CONCLUSION

The CAG/GGC repeats in the AR gene were longer in cryptorchidism than in controls. Longer CAG repeats may play a role in determining bilateral cryptorchidism, and longer GGC repeats may play a role in determining unilateral and bilateral cryptorchidism. These observations were more applicable to Caucasian populations.

Robotic-assisted laparoscopic ureteral re-implant (RALUR): Can post-operative urinary retention be predicted?

OBJECTIVE

Urinary retention following robotic-assisted laparoscopic extravesical ureteral reimplantation (RALUR) is proposed to be due to traction or injury of the pelvic parasympathetic nerve plexus during distal ureteral dissection. Nerve-sparing techniques have been employed to avoid injury to the pelvic plexus, either directly or indirectly. This single-center study assessed postoperative urinary retention rates after extravesical RALUR and investigated whether demographic or operative factors could predict this occurrence.

METHODS

All RALUR cases entered into an Institutional Review Board-approved registry were retrospectively reviewed, and the rate of postoperative retention was determined. Postoperative urinary retention was defined as the need for catheterization at any time in the postoperative period during hospital admission or within 1 week after the operation. This included acute urinary retention episodes (AUR) as well as high post-void residuals (>50% of expected bladder capacity). Univariate analysis was performed to analyze for predictors of postoperative retention. Factors assessed included age, gender, clinical presentation, bowel bladder dysfunction (BBD), pre-operative urinary tract infection (UTI), procedure length, grade of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), and operative laterality.

RESULTS

A total of 128 patients underwent extravesical RALUR in 179 ureters during the study period 2012-2016. Male:female ratio was 1:2.6. Median age at surgery was 4 years. Bilateral RALUR was performed in 52 cases (40.6%), and unilateral in 76 (59.4%). Urinary retention requiring catheterization occurred in 11 cases (8.59%). Of these, seven were post-bilateral RALUR, while the remaining four were unilateral. In seven cases, postoperative retention occurred within 24 h following RALUR. The remaining four instances occurred within 1 week, despite successful voiding in the immediate postoperative period. Univariate analysis revealed male gender (P = 0.009) and operating room time (P = 0.029) as predictors of retention. No association was found with age, weight, BBD, pre-operative UTI, grade of VUR, or laterality.

CONCLUSION

Urinary retention after RALUR was an infrequent complication. When it did occur, urinary retention appeared to be secondary to covariates such as male gender and length of surgical time - possibly an indication of technical difficulty - rather than laterality of repair.

Curcumin Inhibits Proliferation and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition of Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells Via Multiple Pathways

BACKGROUND

Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) is a disease caused by dedifferentiation, translocation and proliferation of several types of local cells. These cells form fibrocellular membranes resulting in detachment of retinal and vision loss. PVR occurs in 8%-10% of patients undergoing primary retinal detachment (RD) surgery and becomes a major obstacle for successful RD repair. Retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells are among the major cells which consist of fibrocellular membranes. Reproliferation and Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) are the primary pathological alteration of RPE cells in PVR.

METHODS

RPE cells were treated with curcumin at different concentrations for 24, 48 and 72 hours. The viable cells were detected by MTT assay. The apoptosis of RPE was stained by Multicaspase/7-AAD and detected using flow cytometry. Cell cycle analysis was quantified by PI staining. The mRNA levels were detected by real-time PCR. The protein levels were detected by western blot.

RESULTS

We found a compound curcumin significantly inhibited proliferation and EMT of RPE cells in vitro. Further study showed curcumin induced cell cycle arrest by activating G2 checkpoint through p53 pathway. Meanwhile, we found that curcumin suppressed the AKT, MAPK and TGF-β pathways in RPE cells which may also affect proliferation and EMT. Our research identified curcumin a potential novel agent for the PVR prevention and treatment. Curcumin induces cell cycle arrest by activating G2 checkpoint.

CONCLUSION

Our results in this study also provide the insights to broaden the application of curcumin in research and probably clinics.

Effects of dietary rapeseed meal supplementation on cecal microbiota in laying hens with different flavin-containing monooxygenase 3 genotypes

To evaluate the effect of dietary rapeseed meal (RM) supplementation on cecal trimethylamine and bacteria in laying hens with different flavin-containing monooxygenase 3 (FMO3) genotypes, a 3 × 2 2-factorial arrangement was employed using FMO3 genotypes (AA, AT, and TT) and dietary RM (0 and 14% of diet) as the main effects. At 50 wk of age, 36 hens of AT genotype and 36 hens of TT genotype were randomly allotted to one of the 2 dietary treatments, and each dietary treatment consisted of 3 replicates with 6 birds each. A total of 12 hens with AA genotype were allotted to one of the 2 dietary treatments that consisted of 3 replicates with 2 hens. Hens were fed 0% RM in a corn-soybean (SM) diet for one wk before the 6-week feeding trial period. Dietary RM supplementation increased trimethylamine (TMA) concentrations in both egg yolks (P < 0.0001) and cecal chyme (P < 0.0001). Dietary RM supplementation increased bacterial abundance and diversity (P < 0.0001). Weighted UniFrac, Nonmetric Multidimensional Scaling, and analysis of similarity (R-ANOSIM = 0.1516; P-value = 0.014) indicated distinct clustering was dependent on diets rather than FMO3 genotypes. Twenty-four phyla (most dominant, Bacteroides, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria) and 229 genera were identified in the cecal samples. Compared with the SM diets, RM diets increased the proportion of Firmicutes (P = 0.004), Proteobacteria (P = 0.006), and Firmicutes:Bacteroides (P = 0.001), and some low-abundance phyla (P < 0.01), whereas the abundance of Bacteroides was lower (P = 0.0002). The abundance of 42 genera varied with dietary types. Six phyla and 35 genera were positively correlated with TMA concentration in the cecal chyme. In conclusion, the major TMA-producing bacteria in cecal were from Firmicutes and Proteobacteria phyla. The major TMA-producing bacterial genera could be from the genera that positively correlated with TMA concentration.

miR-16-1-3p targets TWIST1 to inhibit cell proliferation and invasion in NSCLC

In our study, the impact of miR-16-1-3p on cell proliferation and invasion in NSCLC was explored. miR-16-1-3p mimics were transfected to A549 cells for miR-16-1-3p overexpression. qRT- PCR and Western blot were applied to explore the relative expression of mRNA and protein in A549 cells. Furthermore, the cell proliferation capability was determined by MTT assay. Additionally, cell migration and invasion were measured using a scratch assay and transwell assay, respectively. Moreover, TargetScan and luciferase reporter assay was utilized to investigate the target of miR-16-1-3p. The results indicated that miR-16-1-3p was downregulated in NSCLC cells and upregulation of miR-16-1-3p was able to inhibit the expression of TWIST1. In addition, the reduced cell proliferation, inhibited cell migration and invasion were observed in miR-16-1-3p mimic group compared to the negative control group. The luciferase reporter gene showed that TWIST1 was a target of miR-16-1-3p. Therefore, the present study demonstrated that miR-16-1-3p may suppress A549 cell proliferation, migration and invasion by targeting TWIST1. Thus, miR-16-1-3p might play important roles in NSCLC development, which provides a novel aspect for NSCLC investigation (Fig. 6, Ref. 26).

162 DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF AN ORAL CONTRACEPTIVE BAIT FOR FERAL PIGS

Feral pigs (Sus scrofa) are an invasive species widely distributed throughout North and South America, as well as Australia. Feral pigs frequently destroy farm fields, causing $1.5 billion in damage annually in the United States alone. These pigs are known carriers of over 30 diseases, thereby posing a threat to livestock and public health. Current control methods are ineffective due to high fecundity rates. An orally consumed contraceptive bait may be effective, but currently none exists for pigs. In rats, an orally consumed contraceptive that affects both male and females has shown considerable promise. This bait contains 2 active ingredients: triptolide, a diterpenoid diepoxide isolated from the Chinese medicinal plant Tripterygium wildfordii, and 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD), an industrial chemical. Triptolide prevents ovarian follicle maturation and disrupts spermatogenesis; VCD acts in the female to cause premature ovarian failure and, in one report, disrupt male mouse spermatogenesis. There are no studies reported for these active ingredients on boar spermatogenesis. A proprietary pig bait has been developed containing these 2 ingredients and was fed to commercial (com.) and Sinclair (sin.) boars (com. n = 3, sin. n = 3) for 15 consecutive days to evaluate changes in reproductive parameters. Boars were given 250 g of bait twice daily that contained 0.25 mg of triptolide and 1.55 mM of VCD. Ejaculates were collected from boars before, during, and after the treatment period (Day 0, 7, 15, 30, 37, 45, and 60) and were evaluated for possible impacts on fertility. Ejaculates were able to be collected from 4 of 6 boars (com. n = 2, sin. n = 2). Previous studies indicate triptolide acts during the differentiation phase of spermatogenesis, suggesting a delayed onset of perturbation allowing for comparison of semen collected early in the study (Day 0, 7, and 15) to post-treatment samples. Progressive motility (PM) was rated on a 1 to 5 scale. Plasma testosterone and testes volume were also monitored at these time points. Statistical analysis was performed using Kruskal–Wallis test. No significant differences were found in plasma testosterone, testes volume, or sperm concentration. No significant differences in viability, morphology, or PM were found at Day 0, 7, or 15. However, differences (P < 0.05) were observed in semen parameters at Day 37 and 45 in comparison to D0, 7, and 15. The percentage of sperm with normal morphology at treatment Day 37 (3.3%) and 45 (3.3%) was lower than at Day 0, 7, and 15 (72.3%, P < 0.05). Differences (P < 0.05) were also found in viability at Day 37 (13.3%) and 45 (8%) in comparison to Day 0, 7, and 15 (71.6%). Differences were also found in PM at Day 37 (0.33) and 45 (1) in comparison to Day 0, 7, and 15 (4.8). These results suggest an impact on spermatogenesis, specifically spermiogenesis, suggesting a decrease in fertility due to lower quality of spermatozoa. Further studies are needed to evaluate the bait’s impact on feral pig reproduction.

207 EFFICIENT GENERATION OF MYOSTATIN PROMOTER MUTATIONS IN BOVINE EMBRYOS USING THE CRISPR/Cas9 SYSTEM

The myostatin gene or growth differentiation factor 8 is a member of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily that acts as a negative regulator of muscle growth. Mutations inactivating this gene occur naturally in Piedmontese and Belgian Blue cattle breeds, resulting in a dramatic increase in muscle mass, albeit with unwanted consequences of increased dystocia and decreased fertility. Modulation of muscle mass increase without the unwanted effects would be of great value for improving livestock growth and economic value of livestock. The objective of our work was to use the CRISPR-Cas9 genetic engineering tool to generate deletions of different elements in the myostatin promoter in order to decrease the level of expression and obtain an attenuated phenotype without the detrimental consequences of an inactivating mutation. To achieve this objective 4 different small guide RNA (sgRNA) targeting the promoter near the mutation were designed with PAM positions from transcription starting site of −1577, −689, −555, and −116. These sgRNA were cloned individually into the Cas9 plasmids (px461, and px462; Addgene®). These plasmids allow for a dual puromycin resistance (px462) and green fluorescent protein (px461) selection. We first tested the functionality of these sgRNA in vitro by co-transfecting bovine fetal fibroblasts with a combination of both plasmids (Set 1 = sgRNA 1–4; Set 2 = sgRNA 2–3). Cells were exposed to puromycin (0.2 µg mL−1) for 72 h, then single and mixed colonies positive for green fluorescent protein expression were separated for propagation. The DNA was extracted for PCR amplification of the targeted region. Multiple deletions and a few insertion events were observed after PCR, bands were cloned into TOPO® vector (Thermo Fisher Scientific, Waltham, MA, USA) and sequenced. Sequencing results confirmed the PCR products as insertions or deletions in the myostatin promoter region. We proceeded to modify the myostatin promoter directly in bovine zygotes. For this, IVF-derived zygotes were randomly assigned to 3 different treatment groups Set 1, Set 2, or Null (no sgRNA) for microinjections. Each zygote was injected with ~100 pL of trophectoderm buffer containing 50 ng µL−1 of total sgRNA, 10 ng µL−1 of Cas9 mRNA, and 30 ng µL−1 of Cas9 protein with 1 mg mL−1 of fluorescent dextran. Day 7 post-IVF blastocysts were lysed and DNA was extracted for PCR amplification of the target region. In Set 1, 16 of 19 embryos (94.12%) were successfully edited, whereas in Set 2 there were 11 of 17 embryos (64.7%) edited. In both sets of sgRNA there was a high degree of mosaicism, with only 1 embryo demonstrating a homozygous deletion. In conclusion, CRISPR/Cas9 acts over the course of the first few cleavage divisions Further research is necessary to refine the CRISPR/Cas9 system for inducing genetic mutations in bovine embryos.

The split Renilla luciferase complementation assay is useful for identifying the interaction of Epstein-Barr virus protein kinase BGLF4 and a heat shock protein Hsp90

Protein-protein interactions can regulate different cellular processes, such as transcription, translation, and oncogenic transformation. The split Renilla luciferase complementation assay (SRLCA) is one of the techniques that detect protein-protein interactions. The SRLCA is based on the complementation of the LN and LC non-functional halves of Renilla luciferase fused to possibly interacting proteins which after interaction form a functional enzyme and emit luminescence. The BGLF4 of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a viral protein kinase that is expressed during the early and late stages of lytic cycles, which can regulate multiple cellular and viral substrates to optimize the DNA replication environment. The heat shock protein Hsp90 is a molecular chaperone that maintains the integrity of structure and function of various interacting proteins, which can form a complex with BGLF4 and stabilize its expression in cells. The interaction between BGLF4 and Hsp90 could be specifically detected through the SRLCA. The region of aa 250-295 of BGLF4 is essential for the BGLF4/Hsp90 interaction and the mutation of Phe-254, Leu-266, and Leu-267 can disrupt this interaction. These results suggest that the SRLCA can specifically detect the BGLF4/Hsp90 interaction and provide a reference to develop inhibitors that disrupt the BGLF4/Hsp90 interaction.

Transcriptional profiles of emasculated flowers of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) determined using the cDNA-AFLP technique

Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) is a tree in the subfamily Faboideae, native to North America, that has been naturalized and widely planted in temperate Europe and Asia. Black locust has important ecological and economic value, but its quality needs improvement. Hybridization programs are important for black locust breeding, but the low rate of fruit set after controlled pollination limits both its breeding and that of other monoclinous plant species that share this problem. In this study, we investigated gene expression in emasculated black locust flowers using the cDNA-amplified fragment length polymorphism technique to determine why the rate of fruit set is low after controlled pollination. Flowers that were emasculated after being frozen in liquid nitrogen were used as controls. Changes in the flower transcriptome were more dramatic at 5 h after emasculation than at 48 h. Injury caused by emasculation decreased the expression levels of genes associated with metabolism, growth regulation, signal transduction, and photosynthesis, and it increased the expression of genes related to stress-response metabolism, signal transduction, and promotion of senescence. The changes in the expression levels of these genes had negative effects on sugar metabolism, protein metabolism, lipid metabolism, energy metabolism, matter transport, signal transduction, osmotic regulation, pH regulation, and photosynthesis. Thus, emasculation accelerated flower senescence, resulting in low fruit set.

Two new types of allergens from the cockroach, Periplaneta americana

Periplaneta americana cockroach is an important source of inhalant indoor allergen resource, and there are more than twenty IgE-binding components identified in P. americana, but only nine allergens were characterized. Our knowledge about cockroach allergens remains poor. In this work, two novel allergen proteins Per a 11 (alpha-amylase) and Per a 12 (chitinase) with molecular weight around 55 and 45 kDa, respectively, were purified and characterized from the midgut of cockroaches. Their primary sequences were determined by Edman degradation, mass spectrometry, and cDNA cloning. Sera from 39 and 30 of 47 (83.0% and 63.8%) patients reacted to Per a 11 and Per a 12 on immunoblots, respectively. The allergenicity of Per a 11 and Per a 12 was further confirmed by competitive ELISA, basophil activation test (BAT), and skin prick test (SPT). They appear to be of importance for the allergic reactions induced by cockroach and have a potential for component-based diagnosis of allergy.

A rabbit model of antegrade selective cerebral perfusion with cardioplegic arrest

OBJECTIVE

Due to the weak ascending aorta, it is extremely challenging to establish an anterograde selective cerebral perfusion (ASCP) model in rabbits, especially when cardioplegic arrest is required. Herein, the aim of this study was to establish a rabbit ASCP model with cardiac arrest being easily performed and being similar to the clinical scenario.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-two adult New Zealand white rabbits were selected for ASCP model establishment and another 22 rabbits were utilized for blood donation. The cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) circuit consisted of a roller pump, a membrane oxygenator, a heat-cooler system and a blood reservoir, which were connected by silicone tubing. The total priming volume of the circuit was 70 ml. Cannulations on the right and left subclavian arteries were used for arterial inflow and cardioplegia perfusion, respectively. Venous drainage was conducted through the right atrial appendage. ASCP was initiated by clamping the innominate artery; the flow rate was maintained 10 ml/kg/minute and sustained for 60 minutes. After 120 minutes of reperfusion, the rabbits were sacrificed. The mean arterial pressure, heart rate, electrocardiogram and urine output were monitored. Arterial blood samples were analyzed at the following time points: after anesthesia, immediately after CPB, after aorta cross-clamping and cardioplegia perfusion, 5 min after the re-opening of the aorta and at CPB termination.

RESULTS

ASCP modeling was performed successfully on 18 rabbits and 4 rabbits unsuccessfully. Vital signs and blood gas indictors changed in an acceptable range throughout the experiments. One rabbit had ventricular fibrillation after re-opening of the ascending aorta. Obvious hemodilution occurred after the perfusion of cardioplegia, but the hematocrit improved after CPB termination.

CONCLUSION

By using cannulation of the subclavian artery rather than the aorta and with a low priming volume, we established a modified rabbit model of ASCP with cardioplegic arrest. The model has excellent repeatability and operability, which is similar to the clinic process and is suitable for the study of cerebral, cardiac and renal protection.

Volume of intracranial structures on three-dimensional ultrasound in fetuses with congenital heart disease

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the volume of intracranial structures in fetuses with congenital heart disease (CHD).

METHODS

Total intracranial volume, frontal lobes volume, thalamus volume and cerebellar volume were prospectively evaluated and compared in 73 fetuses with CHD and 168 normal fetuses using three-dimensional ultrasound combined with post-processing software at 20 + 0 to 36 + 6 weeks of gestation. Multiple regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors for reduced volume of intracranial structures.

RESULTS

From the 28th week of gestation onwards, total brain volumes and those of specific structures became progressively smaller in fetuses with CHD relative to those in controls (P < 0.05). The decrease was largest in frontal lobes volume, followed by total intracranial volume and cerebellar volume, and the smallest decrease was in thalamus volume (P < 0.05). Multivariable analysis showed that the diagnostic category (P < 0.001) was independently associated with smaller brain volumes in fetuses with CHD. The largest differences from controls occurred in hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), followed by aortic hypoplasia, transposition of the great arteries (TGA) and tetralogy of Fallot (TOF).

CONCLUSIONS

The volume of intracranial structures is smaller in fetuses with CHD, particularly in those with HLHS, aortic hypoplasia or TGA. This study highlights the need for routine brain screening and early intervention to improve neurodevelopmental outcomes in fetuses with CHD.

Initial in vivo experience of pig artery patch transplantation in baboons using mutant MHC (CIITA-DN) pigs

BACKGROUND

In the pig-to-nonimmunosuppressed baboon artery patch model, a graft from an α1,3-galactosyltransferase gene-knockout pig transgenic for human CD46 (GTKO/CD46) induces a significant adaptive immune response (elicited anti-pig antibody response, increase in T cell proliferation on MLR, cellular infiltration of the graft), which is effectively prevented by anti-CD154mAb-based therapy.

METHODS

As anti-CD154mAb is currently not clinically applicable, we evaluated whether it could be replaced by CD28/B7 pathway blockade or by blockade of both pathways (using belatacept + anti-CD40mAb [2C10R4]). We further investigated whether a patch from a GTKO/CD46 pig with a mutant human MHC class II transactivator (CIITA-DN) gene would allow reduction in the immunosuppressive therapy administered.

RESULTS

When grafts from GTKO/CD46 pigs were transplanted with blockade of both pathways, a minimal or insignificant adaptive response was documented. When a GTKO/CD46/CIITA-DN graft was transplanted, but no immunosuppressive therapy was administered, a marked adaptive response was documented. In the presence of CD28/B7 pathway blockade (abatacept or belatacept), there was a weak adaptive response that was diminished when compared with that to a GTKO/CD46 graft. Blockade of both pathways prevented an adaptive response.

CONCLUSION

Although expression of the mutant MHC CIITA-DN gene was associated with a reduced adaptive immune response when immunosuppressive therapy was inadequate, when blockade of both the CD40/CD154 and CD28/B7 pathways was present, the response even to a GTKO/CD46 graft was suppressed. This was confirmed after GTKO/CD46 heart transplantation in baboons.

Blood versus crystalloid cardioplegia for pediatric cardiac surgery: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Blood and crystalloid cardioplegia are the main myocardial protective solutions used in pediatric cardiac surgery. However, the effectiveness of these two solutions on myocardial metabolism, reperfusion injury and clinical outcomes in pediatric patients is still under debate. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to compare the efficacy of these two cardioplegia solutions in pediatric cardiac surgery.

METHODS

Keyword searches were performed on PUBMED, EMBASE and The Cochrane Library for randomized, controlled, clinical studies which were primarily comparing blood and crystalloid cardioplegia in pediatric cardiac surgery and provided data of postoperative cardiac troponin I (cTnI), lactate, mechanical ventilation time, length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay and inotropic support. Databases were searched from 1966 to June 2013 and were restricted to peer-reviewed English language publications of human subjects. We summarized the combined results of the data as mean difference (MD, when outcome measurements were made on the same scale) or standard mean difference (SMD, when the studies assess the same outcome with different scales), with 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

Five studies were identified, with a total of 323 patients. Lactate level after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) was significantly lower after blood cardioplegia compared with crystalloid cardioplegia (SMD 1.09, 95%CI 0.12 to 2.06, p=0.03); cTnI release postoperatively at 4-6 h (MD 0.92 ng/ml, 95%CI -0.13 to 1.97, p=0.09), 12 h (MD 0.2 ng/ml, 95% CI -0.43 to 0.84, p=0.53) and 24 h (MD 0.98 ng/ml, 95%CI -0.26 to 2.22, p=0.12) was not significantly different between the groups; ventilation duration (MD 5.15 hours, 95%CI -7.51 to 17.81, p=0.42) and length of ICU stay (SMD -0.3, 95%CI -0.80 to 0.21, p=0.25) were not significantly different between the groups either.

CONCLUSION

Myocardial metabolism was better in the blood cardioplegia group compared with the crystalloid cardioplegia group. However, there was no evidence of improvement in myocardial damage or clinical outcome for either cardioplegia solution.

Development of patient-specific molecular imaging phantoms using a 3D printer

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to investigate rapid prototyping technology for the production of patient-specific, cost-effective liquid fillable phantoms directly from patient CT data.

METHODS

Liver, spleen, and kidney volumes were segmented from patient CT data. Each organ was converted to a shell and filling holes and leg supports were added using computer aided design software and prepared for printing. Additional fixtures were added to the liver to allow lesion inserts to be fixed within the structure. Phantoms were printed from an ultraviolet curable photopolymer using polyjet technology on an Objet EDEN 500V 3D printer.

RESULTS

The final print material is a clear solid acrylic plastic which is watertight, rigid, and sufficiently durable to withstand multiple assembly and scanning protocols. Initial scans of the phantoms have been performed with Tc-99m SPECT and F-18 PET/CT.

CONCLUSIONS

The organ geometry showed good correspondence with anatomical references. The methodology developed can be generally applied to other anatomical or geometrical phantoms for molecular imaging.

Evidence-based use of FFP: the influence of a priming strategy without FFP during CPB on postoperative coagulation and recovery in pediatric patients

Objective:

Although fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is one of the most commonly used hemostatic agents in clinical specialties today, there is little evidence available supporting its administration. Our present study observed the effects of a priming strategy without FFP during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) on postoperative coagulation and clinical recovery in pediatric patients, aiming to supply new evidence for evidence-based use of FFP.

Method:

Eighty pediatric patients with congenital heart disease undergoing cardiac surgery with CPB were randomized to receive either 10-20 ml/kg 4% succinylated gelatin (Gelofusine, GEL group, n = 40) or 1-2 units FFP (FFP group, n = 40) in the pump prime. Rapid-thromboelastography (r-TEG) and functional fibrinogen level were measured before skin incision and 15 minutes after heparin reversal. We recorded the volume of chest tube drainage, transfusion requirements and the dosage of pharmacological agents. The ventilation time, ICU length of stay and hospitalization time after surgery were also collected.

Results:

After heparin neutralization, there were significantly elevated levels of fibrinogen in the FFP group, which were manifested by r-TEG parameters MAf and FLEV. No significant differences were observed between the two groups in postoperative bleeding, transfusion requirements and the usage of pharmacological agents. Recovery time was also comparable between the two groups.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, prophylactic use of FFP in the priming solution does not provide clinical benefits as presumed. Artificial colloids, such as Gelofusine, can be used safely and effectively as a substitute for FFP in the pump prime. TEG is an effective assessment tool to evaluate postoperative coagulation function in pediatric patients.

Agonist of inward rectifier K+ channels enhances the protection of ischemic postconditioning in isolated rat hearts

BACKGROUND

Selective inhibition of inward rectifier K⁺ channels could abolish the protection mediated by ischemic preconditioning, but the roles of these channels in ischemic postconditioning have not been well characterized. Our study aims to evaluate the effect of inward rectifier K⁺ channels on the protection induced by ischemic postconditioning.

METHODS

Langendorff-perfused rat hearts (n=8 per group) were split into four groups: postconditioning hearts (IPO group); ischemic postconditioning with BaCl₂ hearts (PB group); ischemic postconditioning with zacopride hearts (PZ group); and without ischemic postconditioning (CON group). After suffering 30 minutes of global ischemia, groups IPO, PB and PZ went through 10 seconds of ischemic postconditioning with three different perfusates: respectively, Krebs-Henseleit buffer (IPO group); 20 μmol/L BaCl₂ (antagonist of the channel, PB group); 1 μmol/L zacopride (agonist of the channel, PZ group).

RESULTS

At the end of reperfusion, the myocardial performance was better preserved in the PZ group than the other three groups. The PB group showed no significant differences from the CON group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study has shown that the I_K1 channel agonist zacopride is associated with the enhancement of ischemic postconditioning.

Establishment of a novel rat model without blood priming during normothermic cardiopulmonary bypass

OBJECTIVE

An effective animal model was needed for research on the pathophysiology of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Rat models were considered suitable for research into CPB, recently. The aim of the article is to establish a simple and safe CPB model without blood priming in rats, containing the advantages of controlling temperature precisely, being similar to the clinical process and laying the foundation for the further study of a deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ten Sprague-Dawley rats, divided into a CPB group (n=7) and a sham group (n=3), received sevoflurane inhalation anesthesia and were maintained in an anesthesia state by intubation. The entire CPB circuit consisted of a reservoir, a membrane oxygenator, a roller pump, a heat exchanger and a heat cooler, all of which were connected via silicon tubes. The volume of the priming solution, composed of 6% HES130/0.4 and 125 IU heparin, was less than 12 ml. In the CPB group, a 22G catheter was placed in the left femoral artery for monitoring arterial blood pressure, a 20G catheter was placed in a tail artery for arterial inflow and a homemade, multiorificed catheter was inserted into a right jugular vein for venous drainage. After 90 minutes, the CPB process was terminated when vital signs were stable. In the sham group, the same surgical process was conducted except for the venous drainage. Post-oxygenator blood gas and hemodynamic parameters were measured at each time point before CPB, during CPB and after CPB.

RESULTS

All CPB processes were successfully achieved. Blood gas analysis and hemodynamic parameters of each time point were in accordance with normal ranges. The vital signs of all rats were stable.

CONCLUSION

The establishment of CPB without blood priming in rats can be achieved successfully. The rat model could be used to study short-term or long-term organ injury mechanisms caused by CPB. Furthermore, on the basis of the precise control of temperature and the depth of anesthesia, the DHCA model in rats could be developed further to study pathophysiological changes of neurological and other organ functions in the future.

Mini review on chemotherapy of taeniasis and cysticercosis due to Taenia solium in Asia, and a case report with 20 tapeworms in China

A 43-year-old Tibetan woman living in northwest Sichuan, China, confirmed to be a taeniasis carrier of Taenia solium was treated with pumpkin seeds combined with Areca nut extract in October 2009. All 20 tapeworms except one without scolex were expelled under good conditions. She was free of secondary cysticercosis within one year follow up. Although the first choice for treatment of taeniasis is still praziquantel, it may often cause serious side effect on asymptomatic cysticercosis cases to suddenly become symptomatic within a half day of the treatment. Therefore, the problems in treatment of taeniasis and/or cysticercosis in Asia are briefly overviewed, since other platyhelminthic diseases including schistosomiasis, opisthorchiasis etc. are more common and praziquantel is strongly recommended for mass treatment of these trematodiases with no idea on the co-infection with eggs of T. solium which cause asymptomatic cysticercosis.

Effects of retrograde autologous priming on blood transfusion and clinical outcomes in adults: a meta-analysis

Objective:

Reducing the priming volume is an effective means of decreasing hemodilution and blood transfusion during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). The patient’s own blood was used to replace the crystalloid in the CPB circuit by retrograde autologous priming (RAP) in order to decrease the priming volume. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis to investigate whether RAP could reduce blood transfusion and improve clinical outcomes.

Materials and Methods:

A comprehensive search was conducted for randomized, controlled trials (RCTs) exploring RAP in PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Library, Google Scholar and Chinese literature databases (WanFang, WeiPu and CNKI). Clinical parameters and outcomes were focused on the lowest hematocrit (Hct) during CPB, the number of patients transfused blood intraoperatively, the number of patients transfused blood perioperatively, the number of blood units transfused, 24-hour chest tube drainage, hours to extubation, length of ICU stay, and length of hospital stay.

Results:

Ten trials, with a total of 1123 patients, were included. The number of patients transfused blood intraoperatively (RR = 0.39, 95% CI = [0.29, 0.53], p<0.00001, I2 = 40%) and perioperatively (RR = 0.53, 95% CI = [0.43, 0.66], p<0.00001, I2 = 0%) and the number of blood units transfused (SMD = -0.53, 95% CI = [-0.73, -0.33], p<0.00001, I2 = 14%) were all significantly reduced in the RAP group. No differences in the hours to extubation (SMD = -0.11, 95% CI = [-0.33, 0.12], p=0.37, I2 = 0%) and the length of ICU stay (SMD = -0.17, 95% CI = [-0.41, 0.08], p=0.18, I2 = 0%) were observed between the two groups.

Conclusion:

Compared to conventional priming, RAP could reduce transfusion in adults significantly, but had no effect on clinical outcomes, comparing to conventional priming. Further studies involving RAP are expected to investigate if this technique is beneficial to the patient.