MiR-130a-3p inhibits endothelial inflammation by regulating the expression of MAPK8 in endothelial cells

MicroRNA-130a-3p (miR-130a-3p) has been reported as closely related to atherosclerosis (AS). This study is to survey the effects of miR-130a-3p in endothelial cells (ECs) treated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) and explore underlying mechanisms. The proliferation and apoptosis of ox-LDL-treated HUVEC cells were determined by CCK-8, EdU, and flow cytometry assays. ELISA and Western blot analysis measured the expressions of cytokines and protein levels. Bioinformatics and dual-luciferase reporter assay were performed to predict and confirm that Mitogen-activated protein kinase 8 (MAPK8) was a direct target of miR-130a-3p, and MAPK8 was negatively associated with miR-130a-3p. As expected, miR-130a-3p was down-regulated in ox-LDL-treated HUVEC cells, and up-regulation of miR-130a-3p promoted proliferation and inhibited apoptosis of ox-LDL-treated HUVEC cells. Furthermore, miR-130a-3p mimics suppressed the expressions of TNF-α and IL-6 and decreased the protein levels of VCAM-1, ICAM-1 and E-selectin. MAPK8 was highly expressed in ox-LDL-treated HUVEC cells, and silence of MAPK8 promoted proliferation inhibited apoptosis, suppressed inflammatory responses, and decreased the levels of VCAM-1, ICAM-1, and E-selectin, over-expression of MAPK8 partially restored the functional effects of miR-130a-3p on proliferation, inflammatory responses, and the expressions of VCAM-1, ICAM-1 and E-selectin. This study indicates that miR-130a-3p may emerge as an effective target for treating AS.

Loganin protects against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury by modulating oxidative stress and cellular apoptosis via activation of JAK2/STAT3 signaling

BACKGROUND

Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) is a pathological process that follows immediate revascularization of myocardial infarction and is characterized by exacerbation of cardiac injury. Loganin, a monoterpene iridoid glycoside derived from Cornus officinalis Sieb. Et Zucc, can exert cardioprotective effects in cardiac hypertrophy and atherosclerosis. However, its role in ischemic heart disease remains largely unknown.

METHODS

Considering that Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)/ signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) has a protective effect on the heart, we developed a mouse model of MIRI to investigate the potential role of this pathway in loganin-induced cardioprotection.

RESULTS

Our results showed that treatment with loganin (20 mg/kg) prevented the enlargement of myocardial infarction, myocyte destruction, serum markers of cardiac injury, and deterioration of cardiac function induced by MIRI. Myocardium subjected to I/R treatment exhibited higher levels of oxidative stress, as indicated by an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) and dihydroethidium (DHE) density and a decrease in total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), whereas treatment with loganin showed significant attenuation of I/R-induced oxidative stress. Loganin treatment also increased the expression of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and reduced the expression of caspase-3/9, Bax, and the number of TUNEL-positive cells in ischemic cardiac tissue. Moreover, treatment with loganin triggered JAK2/STAT3 phosphorylation, and AG490, a JAK2/STAT3 inhibitor, partially abrogated the cardioprotective effects of loganin, indicating the essential role of JAK2/STAT3 signaling in the cardioprotective effects of loganin.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data demonstrate that loganin protects the heart from I/R injury by inhibiting I/R-induced oxidative stress and cellular apoptosis via activation of JAK2/STAT3 signaling.

Down-regulation of Hrd1 protects against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury by regulating PPARα to prevent oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and cellular apoptosis

The E3 ubiquitin ligase HMG-CoA reductase degradation protein 1 (Hrd1) is a key enzyme for ER-associated degradation of misfolded proteins. Its role in ischemic heart disease has not been fully elucidated. Here, we investigated its effect on oxidative status and cell survival in cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI). We found that virus-induced down-regulation of Hrd1 expression limited infarct size, decreased creatinine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and preserved cardiac function in mice subjected to left anterior descending coronary artery ligation and reperfusion. Silencing of the Hrd1 gene also prevented the ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-induced (i) increase in dihydroethidium (DHE) intensity, mitochondrial production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO), (ii) decrease in total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and glutathione (GSH), (iii) disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential, and (iv) increase in the expression of glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) in ischemic heart tissue. In addition, down-regulation of Hrd1 expression prevented the abnormally increased caspase-3/caspase-9/Bax expression and decreased Bcl-2 expression in ischemic heart tissue of I/R mice. Further analysis showed that the I/R stimulus reduced peroxisome proliferation activated receptor α (PPARα) expression in ischemic heart tissue, which was partially prevented by down-regulation of Hrd1. Pharmacological inhibition of PPARα was able to abolish the preventive effect of down-regulation of Hrd1 on oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and cellular apoptosis in ischemic heart tissue. These data suggest that down-regulation of Hrd1 protects the heart from I/R-induced damage by suppressing oxidative stress and cellular apoptosis likely through PPARα.

[Changes in epidemic intensity of influenza during 2014-2020 in Shanghai]

Objective: To evaluate the performance of the influenza surveillance network and compare the epidemic intensity of influenza during 2014-2020 in Shanghai. Methods: Based on the weekly reports of influenza-like illness (ILI) and laboratory-confirmed influenza cases from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2020. This study first evaluated the data reporting and specimen collection of ILI cases for each sentinel hospital, and then calculated the percentage of ILI (ILI%), the proportion of specimens tested positive for influenza, and the incidence of influenza among all ILI outpatient and emergency visits to measure the epidemic intensity of influenza. Finally, seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model was applied to quantify the changes in epidemic intensity of influenza in 2020. Results: The proportion of influenza surveillance sentinel hospitals with a score of less than 5 in the evaluation of ILI data reporting and samples collection were 9.68% and 21.05% in 2020 in Shanghai, respectively. ILI% was estimated to be 1.51% (95%CI: 1.50%-1.51%) and 2.31% (95%CI: 2.30%-2.32%), respectively for 2014-2019 and 2020; the proportion of specimens tested positive was 24.27% (95%CI: 24.02%- 24.51%) and 7.15% (95%CI: 6.78%-7.54%), respectively; and the incidence of influenza was 3.66‰ (95%CI: 3.62‰-3.70‰) and 1.65‰ (95%CI: 1.57‰-1.74‰), respectively. ARIMA model showed that ILI% was increased by 45.25% in 2020 in Shanghai, and the proportion of specimens tested positive and the incidence of influenza were reduced by 78.45% and 51.80%, respectively. Conclusions: In 2020, the performance of influenza surveillance system has changed, ILI% has increased, the proportion of specimens tested positive and the incidence of influenza has decreased in Shanghai. The change in the quality of influenza surveillance is also a potential factor affecting the epidemic intensity of influenza. In the future, the quality control of influenza surveillance network still needs to be further strengthened.

Exploring the nucleotide molecular mechanism of compound kushen injection for lung adenocarcinoma based on network pharmacology and molecular docking

Compound kushen injection is an effective traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of lung cancer. However, its influence on the survival and prognosis of patients with lung adenocarcinoma patients was less studied; especially its pharmacological mechanism remains to be further elucidated. In the present study, we adopted a network pharmacology (NP)-based approach to screening effective compounds, screening and predicting target genes, analyzing biological functions and pathways, constructing a regulatory network and protein interaction network, and screening the key targets. Moreover, mass survival analysis and molecular docking were conducted. In the end, 35 key compounds and four possible central target genes were screened out, which could be used for the treatment of lung adenocarcinoma and affected the survival and prognosis of patients with lung adenocarcinoma. In addition, their key compounds had good docking affinity. Enrichment analysis showed that CKI might affect the treatment and prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma patients by regulating the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, TNF signaling pathway, non-small cell lung cancer, Hepatitis C, etc. We discussed the pharmacological mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets of CKI in the treatment of lung adenocarcinoma, which verified the effect of CKI on the prognosis and survival of patients. The present study might promote the further clinical application of CKI and provide a theoretical basis for further experimental studies.

Development of multivariable risk signature based on four immune-related RNA-binding proteins to predict survival and immune status in lung adenocarcinoma

Background

This study aimed to construct a risk signature with predictive power based on immune-related RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) for lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients.

Methods

The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database was used as the data source. Immune genes (IGs) were obtained from the Immunology Database and Analysis Portal (immPort) database. Differentially expressed RBPs and IGs between tumor and normal tissues were screened. For external validation, an independent cohort from the Gene-Expression Omnibus (GEO) database was used. The accuracy of the risk signature prediction was evaluated using Cox regression analysis and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

The risk signature was constructed from four immune-related and prognostic RBPs (OAS3, PCF11, TLR7, and EXO1). The patients were divided into the low- and high-risk groups, with the low-risk group having a higher survival rate than the high-risk group. The risk signature outperformed other clinical parameters, with a multivariable hazard ratio of 1.862 (95% confidence interval: 1.292–2.683). The tumor immune microenvironment, stemness index, immune checkpoint, immune infiltration, and proportion of immune cells were significantly different between the low- and high-risk groups (all P<0.05).

Conclusions

The risk signature of immune-related RBPs can provide the basis for clinical decisions regarding diagnosis, prognosis, and immunotherapy in LUAD patients.

Role and Clinical Significance of LncRNA16 in the Malignant Proliferation of Lung Cancer Cells

The highest mortality rate among cancer patients is lung cancer. A large proportion of cancer patients are lung cancer patients. The incidence rate of lung cancer is the highest in the world. In recent years, long-chain non-coding RNA, or LncRNA, has become more and more closely related to cancer and has gradually attracted the attention of many cancer researchers. LncRNA is the proto-oncogene of cancer. We can find out the cause of cancer and put forward effective methods to inhibit the occurrence of cancer by studying LncRNA. This study aimed to investigate the effect of noncoding long-chain RNA16 on the proliferation and molecular mechanism of lung cancer cells. During the operation, the distance between the excised lung cancer block and the adjacent tissue is 2cm from the corresponding lung cancer block. Then, the total RNA in lung cancer cells and tissues is extracted with a Trizole reagent. Then, the expression profile of LncRNA in three cases of lung cancer and the corresponding adjacent tissue is identified by RNA chip technology. The LncRNA related to proliferation and the expression difference is significant through bioinformatics. The conclusion was that the A549 and H1299 groups of shLncRNA16 could significantly reduce the incidence by 64% and 40% percentage points compared with the experimental group, which indicates that LncRNA16 can be used as a potential treatment target for patients.

Sinomenine Confers Protection Against Myocardial Ischemia Reperfusion Injury by Preventing Oxidative Stress, Cellular Apoptosis, and Inflammation

Sinomenine (SIN), an alkaloid extracted from the root of S. acutum. sinomenine, has been shown to have antiarrhythmic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) ex vivo. In this study, we investigated the cardioprotective effects of SIN in an in vivo mouse model of MIRI. Adult male C57BL/6J mice received SIN (80 mg/kg) for 5 days and underwent 30 min of percutaneous occlusion of the left anterior descending artery (LAD) followed by 24 h of reperfusion. Results showed that pretreatment with SIN significantly reduced myocardial infarct size and concentrations of markers of cardiac injury and improved left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) and shortening fraction (FS) in MIRI mice. The SIN pretreatment prevented the MIRI-induced decrease in the expression levels of Bcl-2, increase in the expression levels of caspase-3, caspase-9, and Bax, and increase in the number of TUNEL-positive cells in ischemic heart tissue. It was also found that pretreatment with SIN prevented the MIRI-induced oxidative stress imbalance in ischemic heart tissue, as shown by the increase in total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and glutathione (GSH) and the decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and dihydroethidium (DHE) density. Further studies showed that the stimulus of cardiac ischemia/reperfusion caused a remarkable increase in the expression levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) mRNA in ischemic heart tissue, which was effectively prevented by pretreatment with SIN. These results demonstrate that SIN can attenuate MIRI-induced cardiac injury in vivo by preventing oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis.

Indole-3-Carbinol (I3C) Protects the Heart From Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Cellular Apoptosis in Mice

Strategies for treating myocardial ischemia in the clinic usually include re-canalization of the coronary arteries to restore blood supply to the myocardium. However, myocardial reperfusion insult often leads to oxidative stress and inflammation, which in turn leads to apoptosis and necrosis of myocardial cells, for which there are no standard treatment methods. The aim of this study was to determine the pharmacological effect of indole-3-carbinol (I3C), a phytochemical found in most cruciferous vegetables, in a mouse model of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MIRI). Our results showed that I3C pretreatment (100 mg/kg, once daily, i. p.) prevented the MIRI-induced increase in infarct size and serum creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in mice. I3C pretreatment also suppressed cardiac apoptosis in MIRI mice by increasing the expression levels of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and decreasing the expression levels of several apoptotic proteins, including Bax, caspase-3, and caspase-9. In addition, I3C pretreatment was found to reduce the levels of parameters reflecting oxidative stress, such as dihydroethidium (DHE), malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and nitric oxide (NO), while increasing the levels of parameters reflecting anti-oxidation, such as total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and glutathione (GSH), in MIRI-induced ischemic heart tissue. I3C pretreatment was also able to remarkably decrease the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) mRNA in ischemic heart tissue. These results demonstrate that administration of I3C protects the heart from MIRI through its anti-apoptotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Autophagy characteristics and establishment of autophagy prognostic models in lung adenocarcinoma and lung squamous cell carcinoma

Background

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which makes up the majority of lung cancers, remains one of the deadliest malignancies in the world. It has a poor prognosis due to its late detection and lack of response to chemoradiaiton. Therefore, it is urgent to find a new prognostic marker.

Methods

We evaluated biological function and immune cell infiltration in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) patients from TCGA and GEO databases between different clusters based on autophagy related hub genes. Autophagy scores were used to assess the degree of autophagy in each individual by using component analysis.

Results

Three different clusters were obtained. Gene set variation analysis, single-sample gene set enrichment analysis and survive analysis showed differences among these three clusters. We demonstrated that the autophagy score of each patient could predict tumor stage and prognosis. Patients with a high autophagy score had a better prognosis, higher immune infiltration, and were more sensitive to immunotherapy and conventional chemotherapy.

Conclusion

It was uncovered that autophagy played an irreplaceable role in NSCLC. Quantified autophagy scores for each NSCLC patient would help guide effective treatment strategies.

Indole-3-Carbinol Selectively Prevents Chronic Stress-Induced Depression-but not Anxiety-Like Behaviors via Suppressing Pro-Inflammatory Cytokine Production and Oxido-Nitrosative Stress in the Brain

Indole-3-carbinol (I3C), a phytochemical enriched in most cruciferous vegetables, has been shown to display various biological activities such as anti-oxidative stress, anti-inflammation, and anti-carcinogenesis. In this study, we investigated the regulatory effect of I3C on chronic stress-induced behavioral abnormalities in mice. Results showed that repeated I3C treatment at the dose of 10, 30, and 60 mg/kg prevented chronic social defeat stress (CSDS)-induced behavioral abnormalities in the tail suspension test, forced swimming test, sucrose preference test, and social interaction test in mice, and did not affect CSDS-induced behavioral abnormalities in the elevated plus maze, light-dark test, and open-field test, suggesting that the I3C treatment selectively prevents the onset of depression- but not anxiety-like behaviors in chronically stressed mice. Further analysis demonstrated that repeated I3C treatment (60 mg/kg, 10 days) prevented CSDS-induced increases in levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) mRNA and protein, but did not affect CSDS-induced decreases in levels of IL-4, IL-10, and Ym-1 mRNA and/or protein in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, suggesting that I3C can selectively prevent chronic stress-induced pro-inflammatory but not anti-inflammatory responses in the brain. Further analysis showed that repeated I3C treatment (60 mg/kg, 10 days) prevented CSDS-induced increases in levels of nitrite and malondialdehyde (MDA), decreases in contents of glutathione (GSH), and decreases in levels of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) protein in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. These results demonstrated that I3C selectively prevents chronic stress-induced depression-like behaviors in mice likely through suppressing neuroinflammation and oxido-nitrosative stress in the brain.

Long non-coding RNA DLX6-AS1 acts as an oncogene by targeting miR-613 in ovarian cancer

OBJECTIVE

Recently, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been extensively studied for their role in tumor progression. This work explored the role of lncRNA DLX6-AS1 in mediating the development of ovarian cancer (OC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

DLX6-AS1 expression was detected by Real Time-quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR) in OC tissues. Moreover, wound healing assay and transwell assay were performed to detect the effect of DLX6-AS1 on the metastasis of OC. Furthermore, the underlying mechanism of DLX6-AS1 in mediating the progression of OC was explored through the Dual-Luciferase reporter gene assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay (RIP).

RESULTS

DLX6-AS1 expression was higher in OC samples than that in the adjacent ones. Moreover, cell migration and invasion were suppressed after DLX6-AS1 knockdown in vitro. Conversely, cell migration and invasion were promoted by overexpressed DLX6-AS1. Moreover, the expression of microRNA-613 (miR-613) was upregulated via knockdown of DLX6-AS1, but was downregulated after overexpression of DLX6-AS1. Furthermore, the Luciferase reporter gene assay and RIP assay showed that miR-613 was a direct target of MIAT in DLX6-AS1 in OC tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

DLX6-AS1 could enhance migration and invasion of OC cells via targeting miR-613, which might serve as a potential therapeutic target in OC.

Long non-coding RNA DLX6-AS1 acts as an oncogene by targeting miR-613 in ovarian cancer

Since this article has been suspected of research misconduct and the corresponding authors did not respond to our request to prove originality of data and figures, "Long non-coding RNA DLX6-AS1 acts as an oncogene by targeting miR-613 in ovarian cancer, by Q. You, H.-Y. Shi, C.-F. Gong, X.-Y. Tian, S. Li, published in Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2019;23 (15): 6429-6435-DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_201908_18524-PMID: 31378881" has been withdrawn. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. https://www.europeanreview.org/article/18524.

Comparison of functional outcomes and health-related quality of life one year after treatment in patients with oral and oropharyngeal cancer treated with three different reconstruction methods

We evaluated the functional outcomes and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of 117 patients (who had had primary operations for oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma) using the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire version 4 (UW- QOL V4), European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire version 3 (EORTC QLQ-C30 v3) and Head and Neck version 1 (EORTC H&N35 v1). The patients were divided into groups according to the reconstruction techniques used: primary closure, submental island pedicled flap (SIPF), and radial forearm free flap (RFFF). Patients who had reconstruction with RFFF had better HRQoL as measured by swallowing, mastication, speaking, and overall score, than the primary closure group (p<0.05). There was no significant difference (p>0.05) between the RFFF and SIPF groups in overall QOL one year postoperatively. The HRQoL of the SIPF group was also better than that of the primary closure group in terms of mastication, speaking, and loss of appetite. Swallowing, mastication, and speaking are major factors that affect the HRQoL of patients one year after operation for oral and oropharyngeal cancer. Flap reconstruction can improve patients' QoL postoperatively. They can regain their ability to speak and swallow through training, and the importance of this issue must be addressed postoperatively.

Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Depression-Like Behaviors Is Ameliorated by Sodium Butyrate via Inhibiting Neuroinflammation and Oxido-Nitrosative Stress

Depression is a common disease that afflicts one in 6 people. Numerous hypotheses have been raised in the past decades, but the exact mechanism for depression onset remains obscure. Recently, the neuroinflammatory response and oxidative stress are being attracted more and more attention due to their roles in depression pathogenesis. The inhibition of neuroinflammatory response and oxidative stress is now considered a potential strategy for depression prevention and/or therapy. Sodium butyrate (SB) is a sodium form of the endogenous butyrate. It can inhibit proinflammatory responses and oxidative stress in different models of disease. In the present study, we investigated the effect of SB on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced depression-like behaviors, neuroinflammatory response, and oxido-nitrosative stress in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex in C57BL6/J mice. Our results showed that 10 days of SB pretreatment at the dose of 300 but not 100 mg/kg markedly ameliorated LPS (0.83 mg/kg)-induced depression-like behaviors in the tail suspension test, forced swimming test, and sucrose preference test. Further analysis showed that 10 days of SB pretreatment not only prevented LPS-induced increases in proinflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α, in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex but also prevented LPS-induced enhancement of oxido-nitrosative stress. Taken together, these results demonstrate that SB is such an agent that could be used to prevent depression onset and/or progression, and inhibition of neuroinflammatory response and oxido-nitrosative stress may be a potential mechanism for its antidepressant actions.

Protective effect of gastrodin on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury and the expression of Bax and Bcl-2

The protective effects of gastrodin on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats and the underlying mechanism were investigated. Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into three groups, of which the gastrodin group was treated with gastrodin, and the other two groups were treated with normal saline. In the myocardial ischemia-reperfusion model group, myocardial ischemia was induced by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery, and myocardial reperfusion was performed by ligature removal. Only thread without ligation for the sham operation group was conducted. The rats were euthanized 8 days after surgery. Heart tissues were harvested and used for measurement of apoptotic rate and expression levels of apoptosis-related proteins. Serum levels of cytokines were measured also using blood samples. Compared with the myocardial ischemia-reperfusion model group, significant reduction of cardiomyocyte apoptosis was observed in the gastrodin group (P<0.05). In the gastrodin group, the protein and mRNA expression levels for Bax and activated caspase-3 decreased, while for Bcl-2 increased (P<0.05). Gastrodin can downregulate inflammatory cytokines (P<0.05) and upregulate anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10 (P<0.05) in serum of SD rats. Therefore, gastrodin played a protective role in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury by regulating the expression levels of apoptosis-related signaling proteins and inflammatory cytokines.

Validation of a revised Mandarin Chinese language version of the Postoperative Quality of Recovery Scale

The aim of the study was to validate a revised Mandarin version of the Postoperative Quality of Recovery Scale (PostopQRS) and to apply the revised version in a Chinese population. In a prospective design, bilingual volunteers completed the scale at baseline, day one, day seven, and day 14 in both languages, with the order of language and parallel forms randomised. In addition, lung cancer patients undergoing open or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) completed the Mandarin version prior to surgery, day one, day three, day seven, day 14, one month, and three months postoperatively. Sixty-eight volunteers participated in the validation part of the study and in the clinical application, 93 lung cancer patients were included. The scores in the Mandarin version were equal to the English version in all domains at all timepoints including the word generation task, when the Mandarin morpheme was included in any part of the Mandarin word. However, Mandarin scores were lower in the word generation task if the morpheme was only included in the first part of the word. In addition, the Mandarin version was able to identify lower rates of overall recovery (<i>P</i> <0.01), nociceptive (<i>P</i> <0.01), emotive (<i>P</i> <0.01), and activities of daily living recovery (<i>P</i>=0.02) after open surgery compared to after VATS. The revised Mandarin version is equivalent to the English version for the cognitive domain, if morpheme substitution for the word generation task is allowed as any part of the word, and it is able to discriminate quality of recovery in Chinese patients.

miR‑145 inhibits human non‑small-cell lung cancer growth by dual-targeting RIOK2 and NOB1

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a leading cause of cancer-associated mortality worldwide. Right open reading frame kinase 2 (RIOK2) and nin one binding protein (NOB1) are important accessory factors in ribosome assembly. In our previous study, RIOK2 and NOB1 were revealed to be highly expressed in NSCLC, and were associated with the clinicopathological characteristics of patients with NSCLC, i.e. TNM clinical stage, lymph node metastasis and differentiation. In addition, RIOK2 expression was correlated with NOB1. To further explore the mechanism and the RIOK2 and NOB1 signaling pathway, microRNA (miR) regulation was analyzed. The tumor suppressor miR‑145 has been reported to be lowly expressed in numerous types of human cancer; in the present study, the expression levels of miR‑145 were decreased in patients with NSCLC. Furthermore, RIOK2 and NOB1 were predicted to be the direct targets of miR‑145 using bioinformatics software; this was further validated using a dual luciferase reporter assay. In addition, the protein expression levels of RIOK2 and NOB1 were inhibited in response to miR‑145 overexpression, thus resulting in the suppression of cell viability, migration and invasion. These results suggested that RIOK2 and NOB1 may be potential targets in the treatment of NSCLC, and miR‑145 may be considered a therapeutic inhibitor of both genes.

In vitro bioassessment of the immunomodulatory activity of Saccharomyces cerevisiae components using bovine macrophages and Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis

The yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and its components are used for the prevention and treatment of enteric disease in different species; therefore, they may also be useful for preventing Johne's disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease of ruminants caused by Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis (MAP). The objective of this study was to identify potential immunomodulatory S. cerevisiae components using a bovine macrophage cell line (BOMAC). The BOMAC phagocytic activity, reactive oxygen species production, and immune-related gene (IL6, IL10, IL12p40, IL13, IL23), transforming growth factor β, ARG1, CASP1, and inducible nitric oxide synthase expression were investigated when BOMAC were cocultured with cell wall components from 4 different strains (A, B, C, and D) and 2 forms of dead yeast from strain A. The BOMAC phagocytosis of mCherry-labeled MAP was concentration-dependently attenuated when BOMAC were cocultured with yeast components for 6 h. Each yeast derivative also induced a concentration-dependent increase in BOMAC reactive oxygen species production after a 6-h exposure. In addition, BOMAC mRNA expression of the immune-related genes was investigated after 6 and 24 h of exposure to yeast components. All yeast components were found to regulate the immunomodulatory genes of BOMAC; however, the response varied among components and over time. The in vitro bioassessment studies reported here suggest that dead yeast and its cell wall components may be useful for modulating macrophage function before or during MAP infection.

Resveratrol transcriptionally regulates miRNA-18a-5p expression ameliorating diabetic nephropathy via increasing autophagy

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of resveratrol on autophagy in the chronically diabetic nephropathy and to study the effects of the different expression of microRNAs after resveratrol (RSV) treated in db/db mice (diabetic mice).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Db/m (non- diabetic) and db/db mice were randomly divided into intra gastric RSV treatment group or control group. Renal tissues were prepared for HE/PAS staining. In vitro, mouse podocytes cell lines were grown in different mediums with different dose of resveratrol treatment. microRNA (miRNA) gene chips assay was performed for differentially expressed miRNAs screening. Western blot was used to detect protein levels.

RESULTS

In vivo, RSV significantly decreased urinary albumin, serum creatinine, mesangial area and glomerular size in db/db mice. After RSV treatment, LC3-II/LC3-I and synaptopodin were increased while cleaved-caspase 3 was decreased in kidney tissues. In vitro, podocytes treated with RSV exhibited significantly increased LC3-II/LC3-I and decreased cleaved caspase 3. Moreover, this effect of RSV can be enhanced by rapamycin (RAPA, an activator of autophagy) but partially reversed by 3-MA (an autophagy inhibitor). Further, we found that miR-18a-5p was significantly upregulated after RSV treatment in db/db mice. Overexpression of miR-18a-5p in podocytes resulted in significant inhibition of cleaved-caspase 3 protein, and increased the ratio of LC3-II/LC3-I. Dual luciferase report assay validated that Atactic telangiectasis mutation (ATM) was a target of miR-18a-5p. In podocytes, downregulation of cleaved caspase 3 and the enhanced ratio of protein LC3-II/LC3-I were detected in cells transfected with ATM siRNA.

CONCLUSIONS

Role of miRNA-18a-5p in the regulation of autophagy via targeting ATM may represent a promising therapeutic target for preventing and attenuating diabetic nephropathy.

Surgical treatment and optical coherence tomographic evaluation for accidental laser-induced full-thickness macular holes

PurposeTo report OCT appearance and surgical outcomes of full-thickness macular holes (MHs) accidentally caused by laser devices.Patients and methodsThis retrospective case series included 11 eyes of 11 patients with laser-induced MHs treated by pars plana vitrectomy, internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling, and gas or silicone oil tamponade. Evaluations included a full ophthalmic examination, macular spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), and fundus photography. Main outcome measures is MH closure and final visual acuity; the secondary outcome was the changes of retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptor layer evaluated by sequential post-operative SD-OCT images.ResultsFive patients were accidentally injured by a yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) laser and six patients by handheld laser. MH diameters ranged from 272 to 815 μm (mean, 505.5±163.0 μm) preoperatively. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved from a mean of 0.90 logMAR (range, counting finger-8/20) preoperatively to a mean of 0.34 logMAR (range, a counting finger-20/20) postoperatively (P=0.001, t=4.521). Seven of 11 patients (63.6%) achieved a BCVA better than 10/20. Ten patients had a subfoveal hyperreflectivity and four patients had a focal choroidal depression subfoveal preoperatively. At the last follow-up, all 11 eyes demonstrated the following: closure of the macular hole, variable degrees of disruption of external limiting membrane (ELM) and outer photoreceptor ellipsoid and interdigitation bands. In 10 eyes, the disruption was in the form of focal defects in the outer retina. After surgery, the subfoveal hyperreflectivity and focal choroidal depression remained.ConclusionAccidental laser-induced full-thickness macular holes can be successfully closed with surgery. Inadvertent retinal injury from laser devices, especially handheld laser injury has occurred with increasing frequency in recent years. However, there is a paucity of data regarding these types of injuries, mostly in the form of case reports. We hereby reported 11 eyes of 11 patients with laser-induced macular holes treated by vitrectomy. All the macular holes closed after surgery and the corresponding visual acuities significantly improved postoperatively.

Clinical analysis on 113 patients with lung cancer treated by percutaneous CT-guided microwave ablation

BACKGROUND

Lung Cancer is a primary tumor with poor prognosis. For early stage lung cancer, treatment options include surgical resection and microwave techniques. Percutaneous ablative techniques emerged as best therapeutic options for nonsurgical patients.

METHODS

The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze the clinical effect of CT-guided microwave ablation (MWA) treatment for patients with lung cancer who were not eligible for surgical resection. MWA was used to treat the tumor lesion of 113 patients with lung cancer who were in our hospital from Jan, 2013 to Jun, 2015. The median diameter of tumors was 3.1 cm (0.7-6 cm). Follow-up were paid to all the patients who received MWA therapy. The average follow-up was 22.1±8.6 months, and the median follow-up was 18 (7-40) months.

RESULTS

All of 113 cases of patients with lung cancer experienced MWA therapy, and their tumors were found to have vacuolization, lower density and much smaller distinct shrinkage of tumor size with varying degrees. The local progression rate or relapse rate of the whole group was 15.9%. The counterpart of patients in the early-stage group was 5.7% (2/35), and the diameter of tumors in the two patients was more than 3 cm. The local progression rate or relapse rate of patients in advanced-stage group was 20.5%, wherein, 81.3% of local progression or relapse occurred to the patients with a tumorous diameter of more than 3 cm. The results indicated that the patients in advanced-stage group were vulnerable to local progression or relapse, the tumorous with greater diameter had higher incidence of local relapse. No mortality occurred within 30 days after surgery, the survival rate of patients in early-stage group at first, second, third year was respectively 97.1%, 94.1% and 84.7%. The counterpart of patients in advanced-stage group was respectively 93.6%, 87.7% and 71.7%. The difference of survival rate between both groups was not statistically significant (P=0.576). No perioperative deaths occurred, and the main complications i.e., fever, pneumothorax, pleural effusion, hemoptysis, pneumonia, and pain were slight and tolerable.

CONCLUSIONS

MWA is an effective, safe and minimally invasive treatment for the patients with lung cancer who cannot be tolerated by surgical resection.

Mitochondrial phosphatase PGAM5 regulates Keap1-mediated Bcl-xL degradation and controls cardiomyocyte apoptosis driven by myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury

Phosphoglycerate mutase 5 (PGAM5) is a mitochondrial membrane protein that plays crucial roles in necroptosis and apoptosis. Though PGAM5 is known to be required for inducing intrinsic apoptosis through interacting with BCL2 associated X protein (Bax) and dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1), the expression and role of PGAM5 in cardiomyocyte apoptosis driven by myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury(MIRI) has not been studied. The present study shows that PGAM5 expression decreased after MIRI in vivo, positively correlated with Bcl-xL expression, negatively correlated with Kelch-ECH associating protein 1 (Keap1) expression. Furthermore, PGAM5 expression also decreased in cardiomyocytes after hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) treatment in vitro. PGAM5 silence promoted cardiomyocyte apoptosis and inhibited Bcl-xL expression, but with no effect on Keap1 expression. Accordingly, Keap1 overexpression further inhibited Bcl-xL and PGAM5 expression. Additionally, PGAM5-Bcl-xL-Keap1 interaction was identified, suggesting that PGAM5 might participate in the degradation of Bcl-xL mediated by Keap1. In summary, PGAM5 controls cardiomyocyte apoptosis induced by MIRI through regulating Keap1-mediated Bcl-xL degradation, which may supply a novel molecular target for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) therapy. Graphical abstract ᅟ.

[EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON RECONSTRUCTION OF PARTIAL DEFECTS OF CERVICAL TRACHEA WITH BACTERIAL CELLULOSE PATCH IN RABBITS]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the feasibility of bacterial cellulose patch to repair and reconstruct rabbit tracheal defect, so as to lay the foundation for the development of bacterial cellulose artificial trachea.

METHODS

Thirty adult rabbits (weighing, 2.5-3.5 kg) were selected to establish full-thickness defect of the cervical trachea (1.0 cm×0.6 cm in size) which involved the anterior and side walls and 2-3 rings. Defect was repaired with sheet bacterial cellulose (1.2?cm in diameter and 6 layers) in experimental group (n=15), and with autologous cervical fascia in control group (n=15). The general condition of the animals was observed after operation; after 4, 8, and 12 weeks, the samples were obtained for measuring the tracheal stenosis degree, counting new microvessels, and observing lumen reconstruction situation by scanning electron microscope.

RESULTS

Three rabbits died of infection, tracheal stenosis, or asphyxia caused by airway secretions retention in 2 groups respectively, and the other rabbits survived to the end of experiment. Gross observation showed that reconstruction materials gradually adhered?to?adjacent?tissue and were enwrapped?by connective tissue, small blood vessels like nutrient vessel were seen in 2 groups; no significant difference was found in the tracheal lumen stenosis degree between 2 groups (P &gt; 0.05). Histological observation showed that the continuous growth of mucosal epithelial cells was observed near patch and anastomosis site with time, and cell morphology gradually turned mature in experimental group; while mucosal epithelial cells arranged loosely in control group. At each time point, new capillaries of experimental group were significantly more than those of control group (P &lt; 0.05). Scanning electron microscope observation showed the continuous epithelioid cells were observed at anastomosis site with time, and gradually grew into the middle of the patch in experimental group; while less and discontinuous epithelioid cells were observed in control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Bacterial cellulose patch is feasible to reconstruct cervical tracheal defect in rabbits, and the new mucosa is formed early and completely, so it is expected to be used as artificial trachea material.

Short communication: Ovine leukocyte telomere length is associated with variation in the cortisol response to systemic bacterial endotoxin challenge

Stress has been associated with biological aging and numerous age-related diseases. This may be due, in part, to accelerated shortening of telomeres, which are critical genomic structures that cap and protect chromosomal ends. Dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis may indirectly contribute to telomere shortening if an animal reacts too strongly or weakly to a stressor, leading to accelerated biological aging. In this study, outbred Rideau-Arcott sheep were stress challenged with Escherichia coli endotoxin and classified as high, middle, or low cortisol responders to investigate a potential relationship between cortisol response and age, and telomere length. In the present study, no association was found between age and telomere length. The study, however, revealed shorter telomeres in high and low cortisol responders compared with the middle cortisol responders, which suggests that health and longevity may be compromised in extreme high- and low-stress-responding sheep.

Downregulation of RACK1 is associated with cardiomyocyte apoptosis after myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury in adult rats

The receptor for activated C kinase 1 (RACK1) is a multifaceted scaffolding protein that mediates the shuttling of activated protein kinase C (PKC) to cellular membranes. In addition, RACK1 could decrease cell apoptosis in a variety of disease models. However, the function of RACK1 in cardiomyocyte apoptosis after myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) is unknown. In this study, male Sprague-Dawley rats were anesthetized and subjected to myocardial I/R insult consisting of 30 min left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) occlusion followed by reperfusion for 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, and 24 h. The expression of RACK1 was decreased after myocardial I/R and was associated with cardiomyocyte apoptosis. To further verify the relationship between RACK1 and cardiomyocyte apoptosis, H9c2 cardiomyocytes were cultured under hypoxia for 6 h, then maintained in the regular incubator to reoxygenation. After H9c2 cells were transfected with Flag-RACK1 to overexpress RACK1, RACK1 expression was upregulated in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) 4 h group accompanied with the decrease of cleaved caspase-3 and the increase of Bcl-2 expression. Terminal transferase-mediated biotin dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay showed that RACK1 overexpression inhibited H9c2 cell apoptosis induced by H/R treatment. Our data suggested that RACK1 might suppress cardiomyocyte apoptosis after I/R, providing a novel molecular target for the therapy of ischemia heart disease.

Autologous vein graft stenosis inhibited by orphan nuclear receptor Nur77-targeted siRNA

Neointimal hyperplasia plays an important role in autologous vein graft stenosis, and orphan receptor TR3/nur77 (Nur77) might play an essential role, but the mechanisms are still unclear. Here, we investigated the function of Nur77 in autologous vein graft stenosis. Rat vascular smooth muscle cell A7r5 was used for evaluating the function of Nur77 and screen siRNAs. Meanwhile, rat vein graft models were constructed for investigating the stenosis inhibition effects of Nur77-targeted siRNAs. The mRNA and protein levels of Nur77 were highly expressed in A7r5 cell, and could be significantly inhibited by the pre-designed siRNAs; the proliferation of A7r5 cell was also inhibited by the siRNAs. Furthermore, the intimal thickening in rat vein graft models was inhibited when knocking down the expression of Nur77 by siRNA. The results suggest that Nur77-targeted siRNA can inhibit autologous vein graft stenosis, Nur77 may play an important role in autologous vein graft stenosis, and Nur77 targeted siRNAs may be a therapy method for anti-stenosis of autologous vein graft.

IGFBP-3 A-202C and C2133G polymorphisms and colorectal cancer risk: a meta-analysis of case-control studies

Recent evidence suggests that genetic variations in the IGFBP-3 gene may impact susceptibility to colorectal cancer, but individually published results are inconclusive. Our meta-analysis was aimed at providing a more precise estimation of these associations. An extensive literature search was conducted for appropriate articles published before May 1, 2013. This meta-analysis was performed using the STATA 12.0 software. The crude odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. Eleven case-control studies were included with a total of 11,895 colorectal cancer patients and 17,147 healthy controls. Our meta-analysis indicated that the G variant of IGFBP-3 C2133G polymorphism may be associated with increased colorectal cancer risk. However, no statistically significant association was noted between IGFBP-3 A-202C polymorphism and colorectal cancer risk. No publication bias was detected in this meta-analysis. The current meta-analysis suggests that the IGFBP-3 C2133G polymorphism may confer susceptibility to colorectal cancer. The G variant of the IGFBP-3 C2133G polymorphism may serve as a useful biomarker for predicting the risk of colorectal cancer.

Efficacy of early bundle therapy on moderate to severe aspiration pneumonia after cervical esophagogastrostomy for esophageal cancer

AIM

The aim of this paper was to investigate the methodology and clinical efficacy of early bundle therapy for complicated moderate to severe aspiration pneumonia after cervical esophagogastrostomy for esophageal cancer.

METHODS

A prospective study was conducted to analyze the clinical data from 49 patients who developed complicated moderate to severe aspiration pneumonia after cervical esophagogastrostomy for esophageal cancer. Among them, 27 patients underwent a bundle therapy-tracheostomy followed by ventilator-assisted breathing with reverse trendelenburg position, early goal-directed hemodynamic support, enteral nutrition by nasointestinal tube, effective antibiotic usage and large doses of expectorants in addition to the conventional treatments. The remaining 22 patients underwent conventional treatment (controls). The hospital fatality rates, incidence of serious complications, mechanical ventilation time and ICU length of stay of the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

Patients in the bundle therapy group had higher cure rate of pneumonia than the control group (P=0.041), significantly lower fatality rate than the controls (P=0.005), lower incidence of complications than the controls (P<0.05), shorter ICU length of stay than the control group (P=0.017), significantly shorter mechanical ventilation time (P=0.032), lower Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II Score (P=0.036) and lower Clinical Pulmonary Infection Score (P=0.047).

CONCLUSION

Early bundle therapy can effectively improve the treatment efficacy for moderate to severe aspiration pneumonia after cervical esophagogastrostomy for esophageal cancer.

HIF1A gene Pro582Ser polymorphism and susceptibility to digestive tract cancers: a meta-analysis of case-control studies

Many existing studies have demonstrated that common polymorphisms in the hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1A) may contribute to the development of digestive tract cancers, but individually published studies showed inconclusive results. This meta-analysis aimed to derive a precise estimation of the relationships between HIF1A Pro582Ser polymorphism and the risk of digestive tract cancers. We searched CISCOM, CINAHL, Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, EBSCO, Cochrane Library, and CBM databases from inception through May 1, 2013. Meta-analysis was performed using the STATA 12.0 software. We assessed 6 case-control studies that included a total of 911 digestive tract cancer patients and 2774 healthy controls. Our meta-analysis indicated that HIF1A Pro582Ser polymorphism was associated with an increased risk of digestive tract cancer. Subgroup analysis by ethnicity suggested that HIF1A Pro582Ser polymorphism might increase an individual's susceptibility to digestive tract cancer in Asian populations. However, similar association was not observed in Caucasian populations. In conclusion, our findings suggest that HIF1A Pro582Ser polymorphism may contribute to the risk of digestive tract cancers, especially in Asian populations.

Improved three-tubing approach for the reoperation of perforation suturing anastomotic fistula after radical radiotherapy of upper thoracic esophgeal squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

As we all know that traditional three tubes treatment for the anastomotic fistula after esophagectomy is easy and efficient, but there are still so many problems such as pain, intubation discomfort, psychological pressure and prognosis slowly. Our report would introduce a new method to cure the anastomotic fistula for the patient after radical radiotherapy.

METHODS

CT and DSA-guided percutaneous cervical gastric wall puncture were performed for the patient while the Flocare tube was introduced entering the mediastinum via the anastomotic fistula under the guidance of contrast medium followed by the procedure of persistent vacuum-suction for 24 hours. Meanwhile, the patient underwent the treatments such as fasting, gastrointestinal decompression, anti-inflammation and nutritional support.

RESULTS

Four months later, the patient was discharged after the healing of gastroesophageal anastomotic fistula, significant shrink of tracheo-mediastinal fistula and no discomfort when taking semi-liquid diet.

CONCLUSIONS

With the benefits of long-term tube retention, improved three-tubing will lead to positive and effective treatment, especially for the patient who has the healing capacity of the tissue decreases due to radical radiotherapy.

The siRNA cocktail targeting VEGF and HER2 inhibition on the proliferation and induced apoptosis of gastric cancer cell

The aim of this study was to investigate the inhibitory effect of a siRNA cocktail targeting Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) on cell proliferation, induced apoptosis and the expression of VEGF and HER2 in human gastric carcinoma cell. The silencing rate of pre-designed siRNAs that targeted VEGF and HER2 was detected by Real-time Quantitative PCR (RT-QPCR) analysis. Furthermore, the best silencing siRNA that targeted VEGF and HER2 was prepared as a cocktail to co-knockdown VEGF and HER2 expression at both mRNA and protein levels which were detected by RT-QPCR and Western blot analysis. Cell proliferation inhibition rates were determined by CCK8 assay. The effect of siRNA cocktail on cell apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry. The migration inhibition of siRNA cocktail was analyzed by wound-healing assay. The ability of VEGF to induce endothelial cells to proliferate was examined in HUVECs by the method of tube formation assay. The pre-designed siRNAs could inhibit VEGF and HER2 mRNA level. siRNA cocktail, and co-downregulation of VEGF and HER2 result in significant inhibition of gastric cancer growth and migration in vitro. The inhibition of VEGF and HER2 expressions can induce apoptosis of SGC-7901 cells.

Outcome and prognosis for patients younger than thirty with primary lung cancer

AIM

Aim of the present study was to investigate the clinical and pathological features of surgical treatment for primary bronchogenic carcinoma in adolescent patients.

PATIENTS

We retrospectively reviewed the clinico-pathological records documenting surgical outcomes and prognostic factors in 68 lung cancer patients aged less than 30 years old enrolled in our hospital between March 1980 and December 2009.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight patients were identified (38 male, 30 female) with a mean age of 22±5 years (range 8 to 29 years). Preoperative clinical manifestations were present in 82.4% (56/68) of the patients and 26.5% (16/68) of patients were initially misdiagnosed. Fifty-two patients had undergone radical surgery, 4 palliative surgery, 9 had exploratory thoracotomies, and 3 had thoracoscopic lung biopsies. Eight patients were classified (TNM) stage Ia, 7 stage Ib, 9 stage IIa, 13 stage IIb, 17 stage IIIa, 10 stage IIIb, and 4 stage IV. Postoperative atelectasis was observed in 4.41% (3/68) of the patients, and 1.47% (1/68) died of respiratory failure 5 days after exploratory thoracotomy. The overall 5-year survival rate in very young people was 31%, while those who underwent radical surgery was slightly higher at 36.7%. Five-year survival rates were correlated with the surgical procedures and pTNM stage (P <0.05). Multivariate analysis indicated that the TNM stage is the only independent prognostic factor (P=0.000).

CONCLUSION

We conclude that radical surgeries, the predominant comprehensive therapies are the best choice for primary lung cancer patients younger than 30 years of age.

Effects of dietary fish meal and soybean meal on the ovine innate and acquired immune response during pregnancy and lactation

In recent years, livestock producers have been supplementing animal diets with fish meal (FM) to produce value-added products for health conscious consumers. As components of FM have unique neuroendocrine-immunomodulatory properties, we hypothesize that livestock producers may be influencing the overall health of their animals by supplementing diets with FM. In this study, 40 pregnant ewes were supplemented with rumen protected (RP) soybean meal (SBM: control diet) or RP FM, commencing gestation day 100 (gd100), in order to evaluate the impact of FM supplementation on the innate and acquired immune response and neuroendocrine response of sheep during pregnancy and lactation. On gd135, half the ewes from each diet (n = 10 FM, n = 10 SBM) were challenged iv with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to simulate a systemic bacterial infection and the febrile, respiratory and neuroendocrine responses were monitored over time; the other half (n = 10 FM, n = 10 SBM) of the ewes received a saline injection as control. On lactation day 20 (ld20), all ewes (n = 20 FM, n = 20 SBM) were sensitized with hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL) and the serum haptoglobin (Hp) response was measured over time. The cutaneous hypersensitivity response (CHR) to HEWL challenge was measured on ld30 (n = 20 FM, n = 20 SBM), and blood samples were collected over time to measure the primary and secondary immunoglobulin G (IgG) response to HEWL. There was an attenuated trend in the LPS-induced febrile response by the FM treatment when compared with the SBM treatment (P = 0.06), as was also true for the respiratory response (P = 0.07), but significant differences in neuroendocrine function (serum cortisol and plasma ACTH) were not observed between treatments. Basal Hp levels were significantly lower in the FM supplemented ewes when compared with the SBM supplemented ewes (P < 0.01), and the Hp response to HEWL sensitization differed significantly over time between treatments (P < 0.01). The CHR to HEWL was also significantly attenuated in the FM treatment compared with the SBM (P < 0.01); however, treatment differences in the primary and secondary IgG responses to HEWL were not observed. These results indicate that FM supplementation differentially affects the innate and acquired immune responses in pregnant and lactating sheep compared with a typical SBM diet of commercial flocks. The long-term implications of this immunomodulation warrant further investigation.

Effect of TRAF6 on the biological behavior of human lung adenocarcinoma cell

Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) is a unique adaptor protein of the tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor family that mediates both tumor necrosis factor receptor and interleukin-1 receptor/Toll-like receptor signaling. A recent study showed that TRAF6 played an important role in tumorigenesis and invasion through activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). However, the biological role of TRAF6 remains unknown in lung cancer up to now. To address the expression of TRAF6 in lung cancer cells, four lung cancer cell lines (A549, HCC827, NCI-H292, and 95-D) and human bronchial epithelial cells were used to detect the expression of TRAF6 protein by western blotting. Results indicated that TRAF6 displayed an upregulation in human lung cancer cell lines. To investigate the effects of TRAF6 on the biological behavior of human lung adenocarcinoma cell, we generated human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cell line in which TRAF6 was depleted. The results showed that downregulation of TRAF6 could decrease cell viability, suppress cell proliferation and invasion, and promote cell apoptosis. At the same time, we explored the effects of TRAF6 on the expression of the following proteins: phosphor-NF-κB (p-p65), cyclin D1, caspase-3, and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9). Downregulation of TRAF6 could decrease the expression of p-p65, cyclin D1, and MMP9 and increase the expression of caspase-3. All these results suggested that TRAF6 might be involved in the potentiation of growth, proliferation, and invasion of A549 cell line, as well as the inhibition of A549 cell apoptosis by the activation of NF-κB. To make a long story short, the overexpression of TRAF6 might be related to the tumorigenesis and invasion of lung cancer.

Pseudoangiosarcomatous squamous cell carcinoma of the lung

Pulmonary pseudoangiosarcomatous squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC) is a rare aggressive variant of squamous cell carcinoma. Histopathologically, PSCC is characterized by interanastomosing cords and channels, lined by atypical cells, with spaces containing erythrocytes or floating tumour cells. PSCC mimics angiosarcoma, so careful attention should be paid to immunohistochemical differences. Two PSCC cases are described here: in a 79-year-old male, bronchoscopy revealed mucosal swelling and hypertrophy and an adrenal mass was found 1 month later; in a 76-year-old male, computed tomography revealed rib destruction due to a non-calcified soft-tissue tumour and, although the tumour resembled an angiosarcoma, endothelial markers were negative and cytokeratin and p63 markers were positive. Immunohistochemical analyses may be helpful in establishing an accurate diagnosis. PSCC had a progressive course in both patients, who died ≤ 3 months postdiagnosis.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms alter the promoter activity of bovine MIF

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a unique pro-inflammatory cytokine whose chief functions include modulating TLR4 expression, and suppressing the anti-inflammatory effects of glucocorticoids. Not surprisingly, MIF is involved in a number of inflammatory diseases and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been implicated in modulating disease severity. The objective of the present study was to determine if SNPs in 5' region of bovine MIF affects its promoter activity. Three SNPs were identified, -1078A>G, -395A>G, and -400G>C, all of which fall within predicted transcription factor binding regions. Reporter gene assays indicate that the identified SNPs have a significant effect of modulating MIF promoter activity. Finally, gene association analysis suggests a significant relationship of -395A>G with the susceptibility to Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis infection, the causative agent of Johne's disease. Given the relationships revealed in the current study, it is clear that the role of MIF in bovine diseases such as Johne's disease merits further investigation.

Bovine PGLYRP1 polymorphisms and their association with resistance to Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis

Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis (MAP) causes a chronic, granulomatous inflammatory condition of the intestines in ruminants and wild-type species. It causes significant economic losses to the dairy and beef industries owing to reduced productivity, premature culling and mortality. Bovine peptidoglycan recognition protein 1 is an important pattern recognition molecule that is capable of directly killing microorganisms. The goal of this study was to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the gene encoding bovine peptidoglycan recognition protein 1 and to assess their association with susceptibility to MAP infection in dairy cattle. Blood and milk samples were collected from Holsteins in Southwestern and Eastern Ontario and tested for MAP infection using blood and milk ELISAs. A resource population consisting of 197 infected (S/P > 0.25) and 242 healthy (S/P < 0.10) cattle was constructed. Sequencing of pooled DNA was used to identify three SNPs (c.102G>C, c.480G>A and c.625C>A) that were genotyped in the resource population. Statistical analysis was performed using a logistic regression model fitting the additive and dominance effects of each SNP in the model. SNP c.480G>A (P = 0.054) was found to be associated with susceptibility to MAP infection. Cows with a copy of the major allele 'G' at this locus had an odds ratio of 1.51 (95% CI: 0.99-2.31) for being infected with MAP.

YKL-40 protein levels and clinical outcome of human endometrial cancer

The secreted glycoprotein YKL-40 is a member of the chitinase family and elevated serum YKL-40 levels have been reported to be associated with reduced survival in several malignancies, including endometrial cancer. This study investigated immunoreactivity to YKL-40 protein and its prognostic implications in endometrial cancer. Levels of YKL-40 protein in normal endometrium (n = 42), endometrial hyperplasia (n = 40) and endometrial adeno carcinoma (n = 68) were examined using immunohistochemistry. YKL-40 immunoreactivity was significantly higher in endometrial adenocarcinoma compared with hyperplastic and normal endo metrium. In addition, high immuno reactivity of YKL-40 protein was associated with advanced stage, high histological grade, lymph node metastasis and lympho vascular invasion. Moreover, positive immunoreactivity for YKL-40 was a significant predictor of poor prognosis, as measured by estimated progression-free survival and estimated overall survival, compared with negative immunoreactivity. In conclusion, high YKL-40 immuno reactivity in endometrial cancer may be associated with poor prognosis.

The biological characteristics of human third trimester amniotic fluid stem cells

Third trimester amniotic fluid (AF)-derived human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be greatly expanded in vitro and induced to differentiate into multiple mesenchymal cell types. This study aimed to investigate the biological characteristics of MSCs from third trimester AF as a new source of therapeutic stem cells. Forty third trimester AF samples were obtained from healthy women who underwent elective caesarean section for breech presentation. A simple culture protocol for MSCs was used. A cell growth curve was drawn, and cell surface antigens and cytokines were analysed by immunofluorescent staining, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and flow cytometry. MSCs from third-trimester AF were successfully isolated, cultured and enriched. MSCs expanded extensively without feeders, they were not tumourigenic and were induced to differentiate into osteocytes. Surface antigens were analysed and found to express the pluripotency marker Oct-4. Considering the great feasibility of biomedical engineering using MSCs, third trimester AF may provide a rich source for investigation of human MSCs.

Prevalence and associations of epiretinal membranes in adult Chinese: the Beijing eye study

PURPOSE

To determine the prevalence of epiretinal membranes in the adult Chinese population.

METHODS

The Beijing Eye Study, a population-based, cross-sectional cohort study, included 4439 subjects out of 5324 subjects invited to participate (response rate 83.4%) with an age of 40+ years. The present investigation consisted of 4378 (98.6%) subjects for whom readable fundus photographs (30 degrees nonstereoscopic colour images) were available. Assessing the fundus photographs, we differentiated two membrane types: cellophane maculopathy and premacular fibrosis.

RESULTS

Prevalence rate of epiretinal membranes was 2.2+/-0.2% (mean+/-SE) (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.9,2.5) per eye or 2.2+/-0.2% (95% CI: 1.8,2.7) per subject. In binary logistic regression analysis, the prevalence of epiretinal membranes was significantly associated with age (P<0.001; 95% CI: 1.07,1.12), visual field loss (P<0.001; 95% CI: 1.03,1.07), hyperopia (P=0.02; 95% CI: 1.01,1.18), and higher education (P<0.001; 95% CI: 1.29,1.74). Cellophane maculopathy showed a prevalence rate of 1.11+/-0.1% (95% CI: 0.9,1.3) per eye and 1.8+/-0.2% (95% CI: 1.4,2.2) per subject. Its prevalence was significantly associated with age (P<0.001; 95% CI: 1.08,1.13), higher education (P<0.001; 95% CI: 1.26,1.92), and visual field loss (P=0.009; 95% CI: 1.01,1.07). Premacular fibrosis had a prevalence rate of 1.06+/-0.1% (95% CI: 0.9,1.3) per eye and 1.8+/-0.2% (95% CI: 1.4,2.2) per subject. It was significantly associated with age (P<0.001; 95% CI: 1.06,1.11), higher level of education (P<0.001; 95% CI: 1.15,1.74), and visual field loss (P=0.001; 95% CI: 1.02,1.08).

CONCLUSION

In adult Chinese in Greater Beijing, epiretinal membranes including cellophane maculopathy and premacular fibrosis occur in a relatively low frequency which may be lower than in Western countries. Epiretinal membranes including its subtypes of cellophane maculopathy and epiretinal fibrosis were associated with age and hyperopic refractive error.

[The study of Fagopyrum tataricum complex prescription on type II diabetes rats]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effect of Fagopyrum tatarium complex prescription on insulin resistance and indexes of blood stasis such as TG, TCh in type II diabetes rats.

METHOD

To obtain type II diabetes rat model, rats were injected 25 mg/kg STZ and fed on high energy feed.

RESULTS

Fagopyrum tataricum complex prescription (FTCP) was close or super to glyburide on relieving symptoms, preventing obesity, decreasing blood glucose level, improving insulin-sensitivity and blood stasis symptoms. FTCP could also prevent chronic complication of diabetes. No toxicity or side effect of FTCP was found.