Improving the practicality of recombinant Escherichia coli biosensor in detecting trace Cr(VI) by modifying the cryogenic storage conditions of biosensors and applying simple pretreatment

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is a global environmental pollutant. To reduce the risk caused by Cr(VI), a simple, accurate, reproducible, and inexpensive method for quantifying Cr(VI) in water and soil should be developed. In this study, three types of recombinant Escherichia coli biosensors (namely T7-lux-E. coli, T3-lux-E. coli, and SP6-lux-E. coli biosensor) containing promoters (T7, T3, and SP6), chromate-sensing regulator chrB, and the reporter gene luxAB were constructed. This study investigated the effects of cryogenic freezing temperature and time on trace Cr(VI) measurement by using recombinant E. coli biosensors. The results indicated that the activity of thawed frozen SP6-lux-E. coli cells stored at -20 °C for 270 days did not differ from that of freshly prepared cells. Turbidity and conductivity in water samples and organic matter in soil interfered with Cr(VI) measurement using the biosensor. The SP6-lux-E. coli biosensor exhibited a wide measurement range and a low deviation of <5% for measuring Cr(VI) in various Cr(VI)-contaminated water and soil samples and required only a simple pretreatment or extraction process even after 270-day storage at -20 °C. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report the use of recombinant biosensors for accurately measuring Cr(VI) in both water and soil.

Biological Activities of Citrus aurantium Leaf Extract by Optimized Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction

Several studies have explored the biological activities of Citrus aurantium flowers, fruits, and seeds, but the bioactivity of C. aurantium leaves, which are treated as waste, remains unclear. Thus, this study developed a pilot-scale ultrasonic-assisted extraction process using the Box-Behnken design (BBD) for the optimized extraction of active compounds from C. aurantium leaves, and their antityrosinase, antioxidant, antiaging, and antimicrobial activities were evaluated. Under optimal conditions in a 150× scaleup configuration (a 30 L ultrasonic machine) of a pilot plant, the total phenolic content was 69.09 mg gallic acid equivalent/g dry weight, which was slightly lower (3.17%) than the theoretical value. The half maximal inhibitory concentration of C. aurantium leaf extract (CALE) for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl-scavenging, 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)-scavenging, antityrosinase, anticollagenase, antielastase and anti-matrix metalloprotein-1 activities were 123.5, 58.5, 181.3, 196.4, 216.3, and 326.4 mg/L, respectively. Moreover, the minimal inhibitory concentrations for bacteria and fungi were 150-350 and 500 mg/L, respectively. In total, 17 active compounds were detected in CALE-with linalool, linalyl acetate, limonene, and α-terpineol having the highest concentrations. Finally, the overall transdermal absorption and permeation efficiency of CALE was 95.9%. In conclusion, our CALE demonstrated potential whitening, antioxidant, antiaging, and antimicrobial activities; it was also nontoxic and easily absorbed into the skin as well as inexpensive to produce. Therefore, it has potential applications in various industries.

[Influence of sleep fragmentation in infancy and toddler period on emotional and behavioral problem at the age of 6 years: a birth cohort study]

Objective: To investigate the influence of sleep fragmentation in infancy and toddler period on emotional and behavioral problems at the age of 6 years. Methods: Using a prospective cohort design, 262 children were extracted from mother-child birth cohort recruited from May 2012 to July 2013 in Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University. Children's sleep and physical activities were assessed using actigraphy at 6, 12, 18, 24, and 36 months of age, from which the sleep fragmentation index (FI) at each follow-up point was calculated. Children's emotional and behavioral problems at 6 years of age were assessed using the strengths and difficulties questionnaire. Group-based trajectory model was applied to determine sleep FI in infancy and toddler period trajectory groups with Bayesian information criteria being used to determine the best fitting model. Children's emotional and behavioral problems between groups were examined with independent t test and linear regression models, etc. Results: A total of 177 children, with 91 boys and 86 girls, were included in the final analysis and were divided into 2 groups: high FI group (n=30) and low FI group (n=147). Compared with children in the low FI group, those in the high FI group presents with higher total difficulties score and higher hyperactivity or inattention score ((11.0±4.9) vs. (8.9±4.1), (4.9±2.7) vs. (3.7±2.3) scores, t=2.17, 2.23, both P<0.05, respectively), with the differences remaining significant after adjusting for covariates (t=2.08, 2.09, both P<0.05 respectively). Conclusion: High sleep fragmentation in infancy and toddler period is associated with more emotional and behavioral problems, especially hyperactivity or inattention problems, at 6 years of age.

Highly Sensitive Luminescent Bioassay Using Recombinant Escherichia coli Biosensor for Rapid Detection of Low Cr(VI) Concentration in Environmental Water

In this study, we constructed a recombinant Escherichia coli strain with different promoters inserted between the chromate-sensing regulator chrB and the reporter gene luxAB to sense low hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) concentrations (<0.05 mg/L); subsequently, its biosensor characteristics (sensitivity, selectivity, and specificity) for measuring Cr(VI) in various water bodies were evaluated. The luminescence intensity of each biosensor depended on pH, temperature, detection time, coexisting carbon source, coexisting ion, Cr(VI) oxyanion form, Cr(VI) concentration, cell type, and type of medium. Recombinant lux-expressing E. coli with the T7 promoter (T7-lux-E. coli, limit of detection (LOD) = 0.0005 mg/L) had the highest luminescence intensity or was the most sensitive for Cr(VI) detection, followed by E. coli with the T3 promoter (T3-lux-E. coli, LOD = 0.001 mg/L) and that with the SP6 promoter (SP6-lux-E. coli, LOD = 0.005 mg/L). All biosensors could be used to determine whether the Cr(VI) standard was met in terms of water quality, even when using thawing frozen cells as biosensors after 90-day cryogenic storage. The SP6-lux-E. coli biosensor had the shortest detection time (0.5 h) and the highest adaptability to environmental interference. The T7-lux-E. coli biosensor—with the optimal LOD, a wide measurement range (0.0005–0.5 mg/L), and low deviation (−5.0–7.9%) in detecting Cr(VI) from industrial effluents, domestic effluents, and surface water—is an efficient Cr(VI) biosensor. This unprecedented study is to evaluate recombinant lux E. coli with dissimilar promoters for their possible practice in Cr(VI) measurement in water bodies, and the biosensor performance is clearly superior to that of past systems in terms of detection time, LOD, and detection deviation for real water samples.

[Efficacy and safety of intraoperative ultrasound-assisted neuroendoscopy in the treatment of hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage via transsylvian approach]

Objective: To explore the efficacy and safety of intraoperative ultrasound-assisted neuroendoscopy for treating hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage (HICH) via lateral fissure and insula approach. Methods: The clinical data of 66 patients with HICH in basal ganglia who underwent intraoperative ultrasound-assisted neuroendoscopy via lateral fissure and insula approach for hematoma evacuation were retrospectively analyzed, including operative data and follow-up results. All patients had no brain hernia before operation. The hematoma was located by the ultrasound and then the path into the hematoma cavity was determined. Meanwhile, the residual hematoma was also detected by using the ultrasound. The clearance rate of hematoma was observed by CT. Barthel index was used to evaluate the activity of daily living. Results: The amount of residual hematoma was less than 10% in 63 ases and 10%-20% in 3 cases. There were 11 cases of postoperative pneumonia, of whom 9 cases underwent percutaneous tracheotomy. Rebleeding occurred in 2 cases, but the amount was small, and there was no need for reoperation. Meanwhile, there was 1 case of secondary intracranial infection and 1 case of secondary hydrocephalus. No case of cerebral contusion was reported. Half a year after the operation, Barthel Index grading showed that there were 3 cases of grade I, 25 cases of grade Ⅱ, 34 cases of grade Ⅲ, 3 cases of grade Ⅳ and 1 case of death, respectively. Conclusions: Intraoperative ultrasound-assisted neuroendoscopy via lateral fissure and insula approach can improve the efficacy and safety of treatment for HICH.

Analysis of bioavailable toluene by using recombinant luminescent bacterial biosensors with different promoters

In this study, we constructed recombinant luminescent Escherichia coli with T7, T3, and SP6 promoters inserted between tol and lux genes as toluene biosensors and evaluated their sensitivity, selectivity, and specificity for measuring bioavailable toluene in groundwater and river water. The luminescence intensity of each biosensor depended on temperature, incubation time, ionic strength, and concentrations of toluene and coexisting organic compounds. Toluene induced the highest luminescence intensity in recombinant lux-expressing E. coli with the T7 promoter [T7-lux-E. coli, limit of detection (LOD) = 0.05 μM], followed by that in E. coli with the T3 promoter (T3-lux-E. coli, LOD = 0.2 μM) and SP6 promoter (SP6-lux-E. coli, LOD = 0.5 μM). Luminescence may have been synergistically or antagonistically affected by coexisting organic compounds other than toluene; nevertheless, low concentrations of benzoate and toluene analogs had no such effect. In reproducibility experiments, the biosensors had low relative standard deviation (4.3-5.8%). SP6-lux-E. coli demonstrated high adaptability to environmental interference. T7-lux-E. coli biosensor-with low LOD, wide measurement range (0.05-500 μM), and acceptable deviation (- 14.3 to 9.1%)-is an efficient toluene biosensor. This is the first study evaluating recombinant lux E. coli with different promoters for their potential application in toluene measurement in actual water bodies.

Two Cosmetic Properties of an Ethanol Extract of a Cultured and Edible Red Macroalga, Bangia fuscopurpurea: Moisturizing and Whitening Effects

Previous studies have focused on the role of a cultured red macroalga Bangia fuscopurpurea as a functional food; however, except for antioxidant activity, there are no reports directly regarding the potential cosmetic properties of this alga. Our present study explored the moisturizing effect of its ethanol extract (BFH1) and used the tyrosinase activity inhibition assay to evaluate its in vitro whitening effect. The in vitro moisture-retention ability of BFH1 was similar to that of glycerol (positive control), but its moisture-absorption ability was significantly higher. The overall in vivo moisturizing effect of topical application of BFH1 in mice was similar to that of glycerol, but BFH1 did not cause significant changes in the oil content of the skin, and there were no obvious side effects regarding skin appearance and external behavior during treatment. BFH1 exerted in vitro tyrosinase inhibitory activity with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 48.3 μg/mL (IC50 of positive control, vitamin C: 19.6 μg/mL). The total phenolic content of BFH1 was determined as 10.8 % ± 0.07 %. Thus, BFH1 has high potential to be turned into a cosmetic ingredient with moisturizing and whitening effects.

[Short-term efficacy of robotic-assisted total mesorectal excision with and without lateral lymph node dissection for mid-low advanced rectal cancer: a propensity score matching analysis]

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility, safety and efficacy of robotic-assisted lateral lymph node dissection for mid-low advanced rectal cancer. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed. Inclusion criteria: (1) age between 18 and 80 years old; (2) rectal adenocarcinoma diagnosed by pathology; (3) without distant metastasis by preoperative CT or MRI; (4) patients underwent robotic-assisted total mesorectal resection (TME). Exclusion criteria: (1) conversion to open surgery; (2) multiple primary tumors; (3) patients underwent combined multiple organ resection. According to the above criteria, 137 patients undergoing robotic-assisted mid-low rectal cancer resection in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University from December 2016 to April 2019 were enrolled. Ninety-seven cases underwent robotic-assisted total mesorectal excision (TME group) and 40 underwent robotic-assisted total mesorectal resection with lateral lymph node dissection (LLND) (TME+LLND group, pelvic LLND was performed with neurovascular guidance to retain pelvic autonomic nerves in the order of the left side the first and then the right side). The propensity score matching of 1:1 was performed with R software, based on age, sex, BMI, ASA classification, distance from tumor to the anal verge, preoperative chemoradiotherapy history, preoperative abdominal surgery history, the size of tumors and TNM stage. The operative indicators, postoperative recovery, pathology and postoperative complications within 30 days were compared between the two groups. Results: A total of 72 cases were successfully matched (36 in each group), and there were no statistically significant differences in baseline data between the two groups (all P>0.05). The operation time of TME+LLND group was significantly longer than that of TME group [275.0 (180-405) minutes vs. 220.0 (140-320) minutes, Z=-3.680, P<0.001], while there were no statistically significant differences in blood loss during operation, time to postoperative first flatus, postoperative hospital stay, total hospital cost, tumor differentiation, and distal resection length of margin (all P>0.05). Circumferential resection margin was all negative in both groups. The number of harvested lymph modes in the TME+LLND groups was higher than that in the TME group [26 (18-37) vs. 14 (9-36), Z=-6.407, P<0.001]. In addition, there were no statistically significant differences in postoperative morbidity and Clavien-Dindo classification of complication within 30 days between the two groups (both P>0.05). Conclusions: Although robotic lateral lymph node dissection requires longer operation time, it is a feasible, safe and effective procedure.

Removal of toluene vapor in the absence and presence of a quorum-sensing molecule in a biotrickling filter and microbial composition shift

Toluene is highly toxic and mutagenic, and it is generally used as an industrial solvent. Thus, toluene removal from air is necessary. To solve the problem of reducing high toluene concentrations with a short gas retention time (GRT), a quorum-sensing molecule [N-(3-oxododecanoyl)-L-homoserine lactone] (OHL) was added to a biotrickling filter (BTF). In this study, a BTF was used to treat synthetic and natural waste gases containing toluene. An extensive analysis was performed to understand the removal efficiency, removal characteristics, and bacterial community of the BTF. The addition of 20 μM OHL to the BTF significantly improved toluene removal, and more than 99.2% toluene removal was achieved at a GRT of 0.5 min when natural waste gas containing toluene (590-1020 ppm or 2.21-3.83 g m^-3) was introduced. The maximum inlet load for toluene was 337.9 g m^-3 h^-1. Moreover, the BTF exhibited satisfactory adaptability to shock loading and shutdown operations. Pseudomonadaceae (33.0%) and Comamonadaceae (26.3%) were predominant bacteria in the system after a 98-day operation. These bacteria were responsible for toluene degradation. The optimal moisture content and low pressure drop for system operations demonstrated that the BTF was energy and cost efficient. Therefore, processing through a BTF with OHL is a favorable technique for toluene treatment.

[Risk factor analysis of perioperative complications in patients with radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer]

Objective: To identify the risk factors of perioperative complications after radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer. Methods: A retrospective case-control study was performed. Case inclusion criteria: (1) patients undergoing radical gastrectomy (D2); (2) primary gastric cancer without distant organ metastasis confirmed by postoperative pathology; (3) no neoadjuvant chemotherapy before surgery. Patients with peritoneal tumor dissemination found during operation, undergoing palliative operation due to distant metastasis, and undergoing combined organ resection and those without complete clinicopathological data were excluded. According to the above criteria, 426 patients with gastric cancer at our department from January 2015 to June 2017 were included in this study. Of 426 patients, 285 were male and 141 were female with a mean age of (55.4±9.7) years. According to the "Japan Clinical Cancer Research Group (JCOG) classification criteria for postoperative complications of gastric cancer", patients with grade II and higher complications were classified as complication group, and patients with no complication or grade I complication were classified as non-complication group. Baseline data were compared between two groups. Associations of perioperative complication with gender, age, body mass index, preoperative routine laboratory test, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, activities of daily living (ADL) assessment, past medical history as well as preoperative conditions (hypertension and/or diabetes), surgical resection procedure, incision type, operation time, intraoperative blood loss/body mass ratio were examined. Univariate analysis was performed using χ(2) test and the Wilcoxon rank sum test to screen the statistically significant variables associated with perioperative complications. The significant variables were included in multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify risk factors of perioperative complication. Results: Grade II or higher complications after surgery were developed in 97 patients (22.8%), which included anastomotic leakage in 18 cases (4.2%), postoperative bleeding in 9 cases (2.1%), abdominal abscess in 5 cases (1.2%), intestinal obstruction in 5 cases (1.2%), pancreatic leakage in 1 case (0.2%), and other adverse events in 59 cases (13.8%). Univariate analysis suggested that the gender, age, ADL, incision type, intraoperative blood loss/body mass ratio, and operation time were associated with perioperative complication (all P<0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed that elder age (OR=1.033, 95% CI:1.013-1.053, P=0.013), incision type of laparotomy (OR=2.091, 95% CI:1.247-3.508, P=0.004), longer operation time (OR=1.004, 95% CI:1.001-1.007, P=0.001) and higher ratio of intraoperative blood loss/body mass (OR=1.100, 95% CI: 1.039-1.163, P=0.031) were risk factors for postoperative complications. Conclusion: Attention should be paid to those cases with elder age, laparotomy incision, longer operation time and higher ratio of intraoperative blood loss/body mass, and perioperative management after gastrectomy should be improved.

Anticandidal Potential of Stem Bark Extract from Schima superba and the Identification of Its Major Anticandidal Compound

Plant-derived extracts are a promising source of new drugs. Schima superba is traditionally used in China for heat clearing, detoxification, and treatment of furuncles. In this study, the anticandidal properties and mechanism of action of S. superba (SSE) were explored using a stem bark extract. SSE possessed high polyphenol and saponin contents of 256.6 ± 5.1 and 357.8 ± 31.5 µg/mg, respectively. A clear inhibition zone was observed for C. albicans growth through the disc diffusion method and the 50% inhibition of C. albicans by SSE was 415.2 µg/mL. Transcriptomic analysis in C. albicans treated with different doses of SSE was conducted through RNA-seq. Average values of 6068 genes and 20,842,500 clean reads were identified from each sample. Among these samples, 1680 and 1956 genes were differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from the SSE treatments of 0.2 and 0.4 mg/mL, respectively. C. albicans growth was inhibited by the changes in gene expression associated with the cell wall and membrane composition including the regulation of chitin degradation and ergosterol biosynthesis. This result could be reflected in the irregularly wrinkled morphology of the ruptured cell as revealed through SEM analysis. ESI-MS and NMR analyses revealed that the major compound purified from SSE was sasanquasaponin III and the 50% inhibition of C. albicans was 93.1 µg/mL. In summary, the traditional Chinese medicine S. superba can be applied as an anticandidal agent in complementary and alternative medicine.

[Study on the relationship between age-related hearing loss and cognitive impairment]

Objective: To investigate the correlation between age-related hearing loss and cognitive impairment. Methods: 201 elderly patients, who were admitted to the Department of Otorhinolaryngology of Peking University People's Hospital from March 1, 2017 to March 31, 2017, were evaluated with hearing screening and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale. Among them, 101 were female and 100 were male, aged 60-90 years old. Taking the cognitive level as the dependent variable, and taking the age, sex, education, occupation, marital status, residence, and average hearing loss (average hearing threshold of 500, 1 000, 2 000, and 4 000 Hz), as well as the length of conscious hearing loss as the independent variables, the single factor analysis and multivariate linear regression analysis were used to screen the main factors affecting the cognitive level of the elderly. Results: Of the 201 elderly patients, 39 had normal hearing, 65 had mild hearing loss, 80 had moderate hearing loss, 16 had severe hearing loss, and 1 had profound hearing loss. The average degree of hearing loss was the influencing factor of cognitive impairment, and it mainly affected the directional force and abstract ability in the cognitive domains (P<0.05); The age, self-reported hearing loss, years of education, marital status, past ear diseases, and hypertension were relatively independent factors that affected the cognitive level(P<0.05). Conclusions: Age-related hearing loss is the risk factor for the cognitive impairment, especially for abstraction and orientation, in the elderly. The self-reported hearing loss is an independent risk factor for cognitive impairment.

Very high external quantum efficiency and wall-plug efficiency 527 nm InGaN green LEDs by MOCVD

We demonstrate very high luminous efficacy InGaN-based green light-emitting diodes (LEDs) grown on c-plane patterned sapphire substrates (PSS) using metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). The 527 nm green LEDs show a peak external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 53.3%, a peak wall-plug efficiency (WPE) of 54.1% and a peak luminous efficacy of 329 lm/W, respectively. A high EQE of 38.4%, a WPE of 32.1% and a very low forward voltage of 2.86 V were obtained at a typical working current density of 20 A/cm². By operating low cost green LEDs at a low current density, our devices (0.5 mm²) demonstrating an EQE and a WPE higher than 50% and an efficacy of 259 lm/W at 4 A/cm² with an output power of 24 mW. High crystal quality of the InGaN/GaN MQWs was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and the advantage of the epitaxy design was investigated by APSYS software simulation. These results provide a simple way to achieve very high efficiency InGaN green LEDs.

Comparison of biofunctional activity of Asparagus cochinchinensis (Lour.) Merr. Extract before and after fermentation with Aspergillus oryzae

Asparagus cochinchinensis root (ACR) is used in traditional Chinese medicine. In this study, ACR was first extracted with 25% ethyl acetate (EA) and then fermented by Aspergillus oryzae to enhance its antioxidant activity and evaluate its potential antityrosinase activity. The physiological activity and cytotoxicity of A. oryzae-fermented ACR extract, along with its antityrosinase activity and effects on melanogenic factor levels in human epidermal melanocytes (HEMs), were analyzed and compared with those of the unfermented extract. The results showed that the physiological activity of the fermented extract in vitro or in cells was significantly higher than that of the unfermented extract. The IC₅₀ values for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazine radical scavenging activity, reducing power, and antityrosinase activity in vitro for the fermented extract were 250.6 ± 32.5, 25.7 ± 3.5, and 50.6 ± 3.1 mg/L, respectively. The fermented extract favored cellular antityrosinase activity with low melanin production in human melanoma cells compared with the unfermented extract. The inhibitory mechanism of melanin synthesis by unfermented extract was independent of the tested melanogenesis-related proteins. However, the inhibitory mechanism of the fermented extract was possibly caused by synergistic inhibition of these proteins. Thus, A. oryzae-fermented ACR extract may be used for developing new health food or cosmetic ingredients.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities of collagen peptides from milkfish (Chanos chanos) scales

Milkfish (Chanos chanos), which is resistant to water quality changes is the fourth largest aquaculture commodity. Abandoned wastes of fish scale and bones aggravate environmental pollution. In this study, the effect of collagen peptides isolated from milkfish scales (MSCP) by pepsin-soluble collagen method on cell viability was investigated. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and DNA-protective activities of MSCP were also evaluated. Results revealed that more than 95% of viable cells were retained in human keratinocytes after addition of 100 mg/mL MSCP. Measurement of DPPH· and ABTS· + radical scavenging activities and cellular reactive oxygen species revealed the high antioxidant activities of MSCP. MSCP demonstrated anti-inflammatory activities by reducing lipoxygenase activity and nitric oxide (NO·) radicals. Moreover, DNA electrophoresis assay indicated that MSCP treatment can directly protect against cyclobutane di-pyrimidine production and DNA single-strand breaks, which are harmful effects of UV radiation and H₂O₂. Given its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and DNA-protective activities, MSCP has potential applications in cosmeceuticals and supplementary health food.

[Clinical efficacy of acute intraoperative encephalocele prevention strategy for severe traumatic brain injury]

Objective: To explore the clinical efficacy of prevention strategy for acute intraoperative encephalocele of patients with severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI). Methods: A total of 173 patients with sTBI, who treated in Emergency Neurosurgery Department of Shandong University Qilu Hospital from January, 2011 to September, 2015 were collected and divided into research group and control group, according to their therapeutic strategy.The clinical data during hospitalization and prognosis 1 year after injury was analyzed retrospectively to clarify the effect of acute encephalocele prevention strategy. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in sex, age, preoperative Glasgow coma scale score and imaging type of lesion between patients from the two groups.The highest intraoperative intracranial pressure in the research group and control group were (35.71±4.13) mmHg and(34.85±3.81) mmHg, respectively.The acute encephalocele incidence of the research group (7 cases, 6.5%) was significantly lower than that of the control group (13 cases, 19.7%) (P<0.01). Subgroup analysis showed that the incidence of acute encephalocele in patients with only unilateral lesions was low (1.3%), while higher (19.4%) in patients with both unilateral lesions and other secondary lesions or diffuse brain swelling.The prognosis of the patients was evaluated by Glasgow Outcome Scale according to the follow-up 1 year after injury, and it was suggested that the percentage of patients with good outcome in the research group (62 cases, 57.9%) was remarkably higher than that in the control group (26 cases, 39.4%) (P=0.018). Conclusions: For sTBI patients with high risk of acute encephalocele, prevention strategy was found to be able to retard the progression of delayed hematoma and diffuse brain swelling, prevent the acute encephalocele during operation, and then significantly improve the prognosis.

Optically pumped lasing with a Q-factor exceeding 6000 from wet-etched GaN micro-pyramids

We report the observation of room-temperature optically pumped lasing modes from a single GaN pyramid microcavity on a metallic mirror. The mode at 367.2 nm exhibits a low threshold (0.4-0.5  MW/cm²) and a narrow linewidth (0.054 nm), by which the quality factor can be estimated to be >6000. These lasing behaviors can be attributed to the specific wet-etching approach by selectively etching away defects and pyramid geometry with bottom Ag reflectors for better light confinement. Optical resonances in these pyramids are further investigated in combination with three-dimensional finite-difference time-domain simulations.

Continuous bioelectricity generation through treatment of Victoria blue R: A novel microbial fuel cell operation

A novel two-chamber microbial fuel cell (MFC) operation with a continuous anaerobic-aerobic decolorization system was developed to improve the degradation of the triphenylmethane dye, Victoria blue R (VBR). In addition, bioelectricity was generated during the VBR degradation process, and the operation parameters were optimized. The results indicated that the VBR removal efficiency and electricity generation were affected by the VBR concentration, liquid retention time (LRT), external resistance, gas retention time (GRT), and shock loading. The optimal operation parameters were as follows: VBR concentration, 600 mg L^-1; LRT, 24 h; external resistance, 3300 Ω; and GRT, 60 s. Under these operating conditions, the VBR removal efficiency, COD removal efficiency, and power density were 98.2% ± 0.3%, 97.6% ± 0.5%, and 30.6 ± 0.4 mW m^-2, respectively. According to our review of the relevant literature, this is the first paper to analyze the electrical characteristics of a continuous two-chamber MFC operation and demonstrate the feasibility of the simultaneous electricity generation and decolorization of VBR.

[Investigation of dose-dependent association between bedtime routines and sleep outcomes in infants and toddlers]

Objective: To investigate the current bedtime routine among Chinese children less than 3 years of age and explore its dose-dependent association with sleep duration and sleep quality. Method: Healthy full-term born children aged 0-35 months were selected by stratified cluster random sampling method from 8 provinces in China following the "Hospital of Province-City-County" sampling technical route during 2012-2013.Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire(BISQ) was used to assess sleep conditions of these children.Children's personal and family information was obtained by Shanghai Children's Medical Center Socio-demographic Questionnaire.Both of these questionnaires were filled in by parents. The effects of bedtime routine on children's sleep duration and quality were analyzed by multivariate analysis of variance. Result: The children's average age was(12±10) months(n=1 304), of whom 689 were males (52.8%, 689/1 304). There were 48.5%(632/1 304)of the parents reported that their children had not established regular sleep routines. There was a consistent dose-dependent association between bedtime routine and sleep duration, as well as other indicators for sleep quality (all P<0.05). The more regular the sleep routines, the longer the sleep duration, the earlier the children went to sleep, the shorter the sleep onset latency, the fewer the nighttime wakeup and the shorter the nighttime waking.The nighttime sleep duration was significantly longer for those with a bedtime routine 'every night' than those who 'never' had a bedtime routine (9.5(95%CI: 9.4-9.6)vs. 8.9(95%CI: 8.6-9.3)h, t=3.345, P=0.001). Compared with children who never had bedtime routines, children with regular bedtime routines had fewer night wakeup (1.3(95%CI: 1.2-1.4) vs. 2.4( 95%CI: 2.0-2.9), t=3.182, P=0.001) and shorter night waking duration(16.6(95%CI: 14.6-18.8) vs. 59.2 (95%CI: 47.0-72.7)min, t=6.383, P<0.01). Conclusion: The percentage of children who have established regular bedtime routine is low in China. There is significant dose-dependent association between regular bedtime routine and sleep outcomes, especially sleep quality. The more regular the sleep routines, the better the sleep quality.

Evaluation of tyrosinase inhibitory and antioxidant activities of Angelica dahurica root extracts for four different probiotic bacteria fermentations

Angelica dahurica root (ADR), which shows strong antioxidant activity, is used in Chinese medicine. This study evaluated the tyrosinase inhibitory and antioxidant activities of ADR extracts fermented by four different probiotic bacteria: Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Lactobacillus brevis. The ADR was first extracted using distilled water, 70% ethanol, and ethyl acetate, and then fermented by probiotic bacteria. The physiological characteristics of these fermented extracts, namely the antityrosinase activity, antioxidant activity, phenolic composition, and phenolic content, were evaluated and compared with those of unfermented extracts. Results showed that the water extracts after fermentation by probiotic bacteria exhibited the most favorable physiological characteristics. Among the extracts fermented by these probiotic bacteria, L. acidophilus-fermented ADR extract showed the most favorable physiological characteristics. The optimal IC₅₀ values for antityrosinase activity, DPPH radical scavenging activity, and reducing power for L. acidophilus-fermented ADR extract were 0.07 ± 0.03, 0.12 ± 0.01, and 0.68 ± 0.06 mg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, the physiological activities of fermented extracts were considerably higher than those of unfermented extracts. The tyrosinase inhibition and melanin content of B16F10 melanoma cells, and cytotoxicity effects of the fermented ADR extracts on B16F10 cells were also evaluated. We found that the L. acidophilus-fermented ADR extract at 1.5 mg/mL showed significant cellular antityrosinase activity with low melanin production in B16F10 cells and was noncytotoxic to B16F10 cells. Among all probiotic bacteria, water-extracted ADR fermented by L. acidophilus for 48 h was found to be the best skincare agent or antioxidant agent.

DNA methylation alterations in the pathogenesis of lupus

Although lupus is, by definition, associated with genetic and immunological factors, its molecular mechanisms remain unclear. The up-to-date research findings point out that various genetic and epigenetic factors, especially gene-specific and site-specific methylation, are believed to contribute to the initiation and development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This review presents and summarizes the association between abnormal DNA methylation of immune-related cells and lupus-like diseases, as well as the possible mechanisms of immune disorder caused by DNA methylation, aiming at a better understanding of the roles of aberrant DNA methylation in the initiation and development of certain forms of lupus and providing a new insight into promising therapeutic regimens in lupus-like diseases.

Activity-based and fraction-guided analysis of Phyllanthus urinaria identifies loliolide as a potent inhibitor of hepatitis C virus entry

Without a vaccine, hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a global medical and socio-economic burden, predisposing about 170 million carriers worldwide to end-stage liver diseases including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Although the recently developed direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) have revolutionized hepatitis C treatment, most of them are unsuitable for monotherapy due to risks of resistance, thus necessitating combination with interferon (IFN)-alpha, ribavirin, or additional DAAs. More importantly, the high cost associated with the DAAs restricts their accessibility to most parts of the world. Developing novel cost-effective anti-HCV therapeutics may help expand the scope of antivirals and treatment strategies against hepatitis C. Herein, we applied an activity-based and fraction-guided analysis of extracts from the medicinal plant Phyllanthus urinaria (P. urinaria), which yielded fraction 13 (F13) as possessing the most potent inhibitory activity against early viral entry of cell-culture HCV infection. Chemical analysis (silica gel chromatography followed by ESI LC-MS plus (1)H and (13)C NMR) of F13 identified loliolide (LOD), a monoterpenoid lactone, as a novel inhibitor of HCV entry. Specifically, LOD could efficiently inactivate HCV free virus particles, abrogate viral attachment, and impede viral entry/fusion, with minimal effect on viral replication/translation, particle production, and induction of type I IFN host antiviral immune response. ELISA-based binding analysis confirmed the monoterpenoid's ability in efficiently blocking HCV particle attachment to the host cell surface. Furthermore, LOD could inhibit infection by several genotypic strains of HCV. This is the first report characterizing P. urinaria and its bioactive compound LOD as potent HCV entry inhibitors, which merit further evaluation for development as candidate antiviral agents against hepatitis C.

Analysis of bacterial diversity and efficiency of continuous removal of Victoria Blue R from wastewater by using packed-bed bioreactor

The characteristics of a packed-bed bioreactor (PBB) for continuously removing Victoria Blue R (VBR) from an aqueous solution were determined. The effects of various factors including liquid retention time (RT), VBR concentration, shock loading, and coexisting compounds on the VBR removal and bacterial community in a continuous system were investigated. The intermediates of degraded VBR and the acute toxicity of the effluent from PBB were analyzed. When the VBR concentration was lower than 400 mg/l for a two-day retention time (RT), 100% removal was achieved. During continuous operation, the efficiency initially varied with the VBR concentration and RT, but gradually increased in one to two days. Furthermore, the acute toxicity of the effluent reduced by a factor of 21.25-49.61, indicating that the PBB can be successfully operated under turbulent environmental conditions. VBR degradation involved stepwise demethylation and yielded partially dealkylated VBR species. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the dominant phylum in the PBB was Proteobacteria and that Aeromonas hydrophila dominated during the entire operating period. The characteristics of the identified species showed that the PBB is suitable for processes such as demethylation, aromatic ring opening, carbon oxidation, nitrification, and denitrification.

Expression of macrophage migration-inhibitory factor in duodenal ulcer and its relation to Helicobacter pylori infection

The aim of this study was to examine the expression of macrophage migration-inhibitory factor (MIF) in duodenal ulcer epithelial cells and its relation to Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection, and to discuss the pathogenic roles of MIF expression and Hp infection in duodenal ulcer. MIF protein and mRNA expression was examined in samples from patients with duodenal ulcer with and without Hp infection (N = 40 each, experimental group), and in normal duodenal bulb mucosal tissue (N = 40, control group) using immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization. Patients without Hp infection received routine treatment, and treatment was provided to the patients positive for Hp to eradicate Hp infection. Hp and MIF expression levels before treatment and after the ulcer had been cured were compared. The positive rates of MIF protein and mRNA in patients with Hp infection before treatment were 67.5 and 65%, respectively, and were 18.9 and 21.6% in the 37 patients from whom Hp was eliminated. These were statistically different both before and after treatment compared with controls (P < 0.05). In the patients without Hp infection, the positive rates of MIF protein and mRNA expression before (45 and 47.5%, respectively) and after (32.5 and 30%) treatment were not significantly different (P > 0.05). The results of this study suggested that MIF is related to the development of duodenal ulcer, and that the presence of Hp is closely related with the expression of MIF in the duodenal mucosa and the development of duodenal ulcer.

Roles of p38 MAPK in the regulation of the inflammatory response to swine influenza virus-induced acute lung injury in mice

Swine influenza virus (SIV), one of the most important zoonotic agents, is associated with major public health concerns. The current study was conducted to investigate the role of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) in the regulation of the inflammatory response to acute lung injury (ALI) induced by SIV of H9N2 subtype (H9N2-SIV) in mice. For this purpose, BALB/c mice were intranasally infected with 20 LD(50) of H9N2-SIV (infected group), while non-infected mice served as control (control group). To assess the effect of p38 MAPK, its specific inhibitor SB203580 was employed followed by SIV infection (SB group). At various times after infection, mouse lungs were subjected to pathological and histological observations and detection of inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor α (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-10 and phosphorylated p38 MAPK. The obtained results showed obvious inflammatory responses, injury and raised levels of inflammatory cytokines and phosphorylated p38 MAPK in the lungs of virus-infected mice. In the mice inoculated with the virus alone, the level of phosphorylated p38 MAPK increased from day 2 and peaked at day 6 post infection (p.i.). However, SB203580 caused lower increases in inflammatory cytokines and phosphorylated p38 MAPK and a milder lung injury. These findings indicate that the activation of p38 MAPK upregulated the inflammatory responses to H9N2-SIV-induced ALI, increased its severity and promoted the production of inflammatory cytokines.

Stronger association of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with soot than with char in soils and sediments

The knowledge of the association of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) with organic matter and carbonaceous materials is critical for a better understanding of their environmental transport, fate, and toxicological effects. Extensive studies have been done with regard to the relationship of PAHs with total organic carbon (TOC) and elemental carbon (EC) in different environmental matrices. The relationship between PAHs and the two subtypes of EC, char (combustion residues) and soot (produced via gas-to-particle conversion) also has been tested in field and laboratory experiments using reference materials. However, a direct comparison of associations of PAHs between with char and with soot in real environmental matrices has to our knowledge not yet been reported because of a lack of methodology to differentiate them. In this study, char and soot were measured using the IMPROVE method to test their associations with 12 EPA priority PAHs measured in topsoil samples (N=22, top 10 cm) collected from the Guanzhong Plain and in surface sediment samples (N=32, top 5 cm) from the Wei River (central China). In both soils and sediments, ∑12PAHs were more strongly associated with soot than with char, mainly due to the fact that soot and PAHs were produced in the same gas phase during combustion, had a strong affinity for each other, and were transported and deposited together, while char, the combustion residue, was transported differently to PAHs due to its large particle size. Stronger correlations between PAHs and the different carbon fractions (TOC, soot, and char) in sediments than in soils were observed, which is associated with the redistribution of PAHs among the organic matter pools in water because of the processes during soil erosion and sedimentation in the river.

Association between nutritional risk and routine clinical laboratory measurements and adverse outcomes: a prospective study in hospitalized patients of Wuhan Tongji Hospital

Background/Objectives:

Nutritional risk screening (NRS-2002) and routine clinical laboratory measurements (RCLMs) had been shown to have a predictive value in adverse outcomes in some studies, respectively. This study analyzed the association between NRS-2002 and RCLMs and estimated their prospective value in predicting adverse outcomes.

Subjects/Methods:

A total of 916 hospitalized patients were screened on admission with NRS-2002 and Subjective Global Assessment; RCLMs, which include blood test, kidney and liver function and electrolytes, were recorded. Diagnosis, nutritional support, surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, complications, mortality and hospital stay during hospitalization were collected. The X²-test, odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals, kappa (k) statistic and regression analyses were conducted.

Results:

An overall 48.1% of the 916 patients were at nutritional risk on admission. Comparing ‘at risk' with ‘no risk', a significantly higher incidence of abnormality was found not only in nutritional markers but also in other parameters of RCLMs (OR ranged from 1.5 to 3.5). Regression analyses showed that ‘at risk' determined at admission was not a significant predictor of adverse outcomes after adjusting for other confounding factors, although it was a strong predictor in univariate analysis, whereas hypoalbuminemia, low total lymphocyte count, abnormality of hepatic and renal function were predictors after adjusting for confounders.

Conclusions:

The findings suggest that NRS-2002 might be a global index of ‘sickness' rather than be only a nutritional screening tool. It being rated once at admission is insufficient and should be repeated for using it as a predictor, whereas RCLMs routinely measured at admission may be able to be used to predict adverse outcomes.

Changes in tau phosphorylation levels in the hippocampus and frontal cortex following chronic stress

Studies have indicated that early-life or early-onset depression is associated with a 2- to 4-fold increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD). In AD, aggregation of an abnormally phosphorylated form of the tau protein may be a key pathological event. Tau is known to play a major role in promoting microtubule assembly and stabilization, and in maintaining the normal morphology of neurons. Several studies have reported that stress may induce tau phosphorylation. The main aim of the present study was to investigate possible alterations in the tau protein in the hippocampus and frontal cortex of 32 male Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) and then re-exposed to CUMS to mimic depression and the recurrence of depression, respectively, in humans. We evaluated the effects of CUMS, fluoxetine, and CUMS re-exposure on tau and phospho-tau. Our results showed that a single exposure to CUMS caused a significant reduction in sucrose preference, indicating a state of anhedonia. The change in behavior was accompanied by specific alterations in phospho-tau protein levels, but fluoxetine treatment reversed the CUMS-induced impairments. Moreover, changes in sucrose preference and phospho-tau were more pronounced in rats re-exposed to CUMS than in those subjected to a single exposure. Our results suggest that changes in tau phosphorylation may contribute to the link between depression and AD.

Equisetumone, a novel 4-5-olide secocaryophyllane sesquiterpene from Equisetum palustre

Equisetumone (1), an unprecedented sesquiterpenoid, which possesses a novel 4,5-olide tricyclic trans-caryophyllane skeleton, was isolated from the Equisetum palustre fern.

Mitigation of nutrient losses via surface runoff from rice cropping systems with alternate wetting and drying irrigation and site-specific nutrient management practices

Resource-conserving irrigation and fertilizer management practices have been developed for rice systems which may help address water quality concerns by reducing N and P losses via surface runoff. Field experiments under three treatments, i.e., farmers' conventional practice (FCP), alternate wetting and drying (AWD), and AWD integrated with site-specific nutrient management (AWD + SSNM) were carried out during two rice seasons at two sites in the southwest Yangtze River delta region. Across site years, results indicated that under AWD irrigation (i.e., AWD and AWD + SSNM), water inputs were reduced by 13.4~27.5 % and surface runoff was reduced by 30.2~36.7 % compared to FCP. When AWD was implemented alone, total N and P loss masses via surface runoff were reduced by 23.3~30.4 % and 26.9~31.7 %, respectively, compared to FCP. However, nutrient concentrations of surface runoff did not decrease under AWD alone. Under AWD + SSNM, total N and P loss masses via surface runoff were reduced to a greater extent than AWD alone (39.4~47.6 % and 46.1~48.3 % compared to FCP, respectively), while fertilizer inputs and N surpluses significantly decreased and rice grain yields increased relative to FCP. Therefore, by more closely matching nutrient supply with crop demand and reducing both surface runoff and nutrient concentrations of surface runoff, our results demonstrate that integration of AWD and SSNM practices can mitigate N and P losses via surface runoff from rice fields while maintaining high yields.

Antioxidant, anti-adipocyte differentiation, antitumor activity and anthelmintic activities against Anisakis simplex and Hymenolepis nana of yakuchinone A from Alpinia oxyphylla

Background

Alpinia oxyphylla is a common remedy in traditional Chinese medicine. Yakuchinone A is a major constituent of A. oxyphylla and exhibits anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antibacterial, and gastric protective activities.

Methods

Antioxidant and antitumor characteristics of yakuchinone A in skin cancer cells as well as novel mechanisms for the inhibition of adipocyte differentiation, cestocidal activities against Hymenolepis nana adults, and nematocidal activities against Anisakis simplex larvae are investigated.

Results

Yakuchinone A presents the ability of the removal of DPPH·and ABTS⁺ free radicals and inhibition of lipid peroxidation. Yakuchinone A suppresses intracellular lipid accumulation during adipocyte differentiation in 3 T3-L1 cells and the expressions of leptin and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ). Yakuchinone A induces apoptosis and inhibits cell proliferation in skin cancer cells. The inhibition of cell growth by yakuchinone A is more significant for non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) cells than for melanoma (A375 and B16) and noncancerous (HaCaT and BNLCL2) cells. Treatment BCC cells with yakuchinone A shows down-regulation of Bcl-2, up-regulation of Bax, and an increase in cleavage poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). This suggests that yakuchinone A induces BCC cells apoptosis through the Bcl-2-mediated signaling pathway. The anthelmintic activities of yakuchinone A for A. simplex are better than for H. nana.

Conclusions

In this work, yakuchinone A exhibits antioxidative properties, anti-adipocyte differentiation, antitumor activity, and anthelmintic activities against A. simplex and H. nana.

Broad-spectrum antiviral activity of chebulagic acid and punicalagin against viruses that use glycosaminoglycans for entry

BACKGROUND

We previously identified two hydrolyzable tannins, chebulagic acid (CHLA) and punicalagin (PUG) that blocked herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) entry and spread. These compounds inhibited viral glycoprotein interactions with cell surface glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Based on this property, we evaluated their antiviral efficacy against several different viruses known to employ GAGs for host cell entry.

RESULTS

Extensive analysis of the tannins' mechanism of action was performed on a panel of viruses during the attachment and entry steps of infection. Virus-specific binding assays and the analysis of viral spread during treatment with these compounds were also conducted. CHLA and PUG were effective in abrogating infection by human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), dengue virus (DENV), measles virus (MV), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), at μM concentrations and in dose-dependent manners without significant cytotoxicity. Moreover, the natural compounds inhibited viral attachment, penetration, and spread, to different degrees for each virus. Specifically, the tannins blocked all these steps of infection for HCMV, HCV, and MV, but had little effect on the post-fusion spread of DENV and RSV, which could suggest intriguing differences in the roles of GAG-interactions for these viruses.

CONCLUSIONS

CHLA and PUG may be of value as broad-spectrum antivirals for limiting emerging/recurring viruses known to engage host cell GAGs for entry. Further studies testing the efficacy of these tannins in vivo against certain viruses are justified.

Cerebral and renal abscess and retino-choroiditis secondary to Candida albicans in preterm infants: eight case retrospective study

OBJECTIVES

To assess the tissues and organs commonly involved and the clinical features in the invasive fungal infection (IFI) of Candida albicans in the preterm infants.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eight preterm infants who developed IFI with positive blood culture for Candida albicans were retrospectively studied. All infants received selected clinical and laboratory parameters evaluation, such as blood culture, cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biochemical test, routine urine test, urine culture, renal ultrasonography, renal computer tomography (CT), and fundus examination. The re-examinations were performed after one to two months follow-up.

RESULTS

Cerebral abscesses were detected in six infants. Five cases developed renal systemic fungal infection, among which one had renal abscess. Three cases were complicated with fungal retino-choroiditis.

CONCLUSIONS

Preterm infants, especially very-low-birthweight (VLBW) and extremely-low-birth-weight (ELBW) infants are susceptible to fungi. The majority of preterm late-onset fungal infections are due to Candida albicans. The organs commonly involved in the IFI of Candida albicans are central nervous system (CNS), kidney and fundus, among which renal systemic fungal infection are prone to recur, calling for a prolonged anti-fungi treatment course.

Scaling the dynamic electron scattering in imaging the graphene sheets by the high-angle annular dark-field microscopy

Employing the graphene sheets (GSs), the electron scattering constants are measured in the high-angle annular dark-field (HAADF) imaging by the scanning transmission electron microscopy. Single scattering is found to be dominant until the layer number of 200, complying with a simple relation of I = Io(1 - e(-tau/lambda)). The discrete layer counting of the GSs enables precise determination of incident depths. This work results values of lambda = 48.2, 61.4, 97.9 and 115.6 nm for 80, 120, 160 and 200 keV electrons, respectively. The uncertainties with the mean free paths and the cross sections are confined to 10 percent. The dependences on the electron beam energy and the collection angle are discussed based on a multislice simulation.

Transcription of promoter from the human APRIL gene regulated by Sp1 and NF-kB

A proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) which stimulates the cell proliferation is abundantly expressed in colorectal cancer (CRC) tumors. In this report, the promoter region of the APRIL gene was determined and the major transcription factor was investigated for the first time. Deletion analysis of 5'-flanking region of the human APRIL gene and transient transfection revealed that a 538 bp region (from -1539 to -1001) was essential for promoter activation of the APRIL gene. The data from electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) indicated that the 538 bp promoter region was responsive to the specificity protein 1 (Sp1) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB). Overexpression of Sp1 or NF-kB increased the activity of the APRIL promoter. Mithramycin A (inhibitor of Sp1) and Bay11-7082 (inhibitor of NF-kB) exhibited an inhibitory activity to APRIL promoter. Our results will benefit to the APRIL gene regulation investigation and contribute to discover new drug target for the APRIL gene therapy of CRC.

5-epi-Sinuleptolide induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis through tumor necrosis factor/mitochondria-mediated caspase signaling pathway in human skin cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Skin cancers are reportedly increasing worldwide. Developing novel anti-skin cancer drugs with minimal side effects is necessary to address this public health issue. Sinuleptolide has been demonstrated to possess anti-cancer cell activities; however, the mechanisms underlying the anti-skin cancer effects of 5-epi-sinuleptolide and sinuleptolide remain poorly understood.

METHODS

Apoptosis cell, cell-cycle-related regulatory factors, and mitochondria- and death receptor-dependent caspase pathway in 5-epi-sinuleptolide-induced cell apoptosis were examined using SCC25 cells.

RESULTS

5-epi-Sinuleptolide inhibited human skin cancer cell growth more than did sinuleptolide. Treatment of SCC25 cells with 5-epi-sinuleptolide increased apoptotic body formation, and induced cell-cycle arrest during the G2/M phase. Notably, 5-epi-sinuleptolide up-regulated p53 and p21 expression and inhibited G2/M phase regulators of cyclin B1 and cyclin-dependent kinease 1 (CDK1) in SCC25 cells. Additionally, 5-epi-sinuleptolide induced apoptosis by mitochondria-mediated cytochrome c and Bax up-expression, down-regulated Bcl-2, and activated caspase-9 and -3. 5-epi-Sinuleptolide also up-regulated tBid, which is associated with up-regulation of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and Fas ligand (FasL) and their cognate receptors (i.e., TNF-RI, TNF-R2 and Fas), downstream adaptor TNF-R1-associated death domain (TRADD) and Fas-associated death domain (FADD), and activated caspase-8 in SCC25 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

The analytical results indicate that the death receptor- and mitochondria-mediated caspase pathway is critical in 5-epi-sinuleptolide-induced apoptosis of skin cancer cells.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

This is the first report suggesting that the apoptosis mediates the anti-tumor effect of 5-epi-sinuleptolide. The results of this study might provide useful suggestions for designing of anti-tumor drugs for skin cancer patients.

Cloning expression, monoclonal antibody preparation and serologic study of mammaglobin in breast cancer

Mammaglobin may be a potential serum biomarker for the differential diagnosis of breast cancer. 260 serum samples were collected from 127 untreated breast cancer patients and 133 healthy volunteers to analyze the sera expression of mammaglobin and its implications for both. The expression vector of pGEX-4T-2-Mammaglobin and pBVIL1-Mammaglobin were constructed and transformed into E.coli.HB101 for expression. The mice were immunized with the purified recombinant protein to prepare monoclonal antibody and to detect by ELISA the serum of normal people and breast cancer patients. Recombinant mammaglobin antigen was effectively expressed in E.coli. Two hybridoma cell lines were obtained after the mice were immunized by pGEX-4T-2-mammaglobin. 133 cases of normal serum and 127 cases of breast cancer serum were analyzed by ELISA. The sera expression level of mammaglobin in breast cancer group (average OD value 0.645±0.223) was significantly (p

KEYWORDS

mammaglobin; cloning expression; monoclonal antibody; serologic study; breast cancer.

Antioxidant and antimelanogenic behaviors of Paeonia suffruticosa

Antioxidant properties of eight Paeonia suffruticosa (Ps) extracts (Ps-1 to Ps-8) were evaluated. The respective half maximally effective concentration (EC(50)) values of Ps-1 ~ 8 were 10.0, 9.8, 63.6, >100, 3.8, 85.1, 6.9, and 0.7 μg/ml for 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH·) radical scavenging efficiency and 22.9, 11.4, 53.1, >100, 7.5, 97.6, 43.7, 4.2 μg/ml for 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS·(+)) radical scavenging capacity. The Ps-8 exhibited high free radical scavenging capacity, ion-chelating ability, reducing power, and inhibition of lipid peroxidation, which may have been attributable to its abundant phenolic and flavonoid content. In Hs68 and B16 cells treated with 100 μg/ml Ps-1, Ps-3, Ps-4 and Ps-6, expressions of toxic activities were lower than those in cells treated with arbutin and ascorbic acid. The antimelanogenesis properties were also tested in B16 cells. Extract Ps-1, and particularly extract Ps-6, considerably inhibited cellular tyrosinase and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) oxidase activity and also reduced melanin content in B16 cells by down-expression of melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R), microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), tyrosinase, and tyrosinase-related proteins-1 (TRP-1). The results suggest that P. suffruticosa extracts have antioxidant and antimelanogenesis activities with potential applications in cosmetic materials or food additives.