Association of peripheral immune activation with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Parkinson's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have revealed the link between immune activation and neurodegenerative diseases.

METHODS

By employing meta-analysis, we estimated the standardized mean difference (SMD) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) between the groups.

RESULTS

According to the pre-set criteria, a total of 21 published articles including 2377 ALS patients and 1244 HCs, as well as 60 articles including 5111 PD patients and 4237 HCs, were identified. This study provided evidence of peripheral immune activation in the pathogenesis of ALS and PD.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggested monitoring changes in peripheral blood immune cell populations, particularly lymphocyte subsets, will benefit understanding the developments and exploring reliable and specific biomarkers of these two diseases.

TBK1, a prioritized drug repurposing target for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: evidence from druggable genome Mendelian randomization and pharmacological verification in vitro

BACKGROUND

There is a lack of effective therapeutic strategies for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS); therefore, drug repurposing might provide a rapid approach to meet the urgent need for treatment.

METHODS

To identify therapeutic targets associated with ALS, we conducted Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis and colocalization analysis using cis-eQTL of druggable gene and ALS GWAS data collections to determine annotated druggable gene targets that exhibited significant associations with ALS. By subsequent repurposing drug discovery coupled with inclusion criteria selection, we identified several drug candidates corresponding to their druggable gene targets that have been genetically validated. The pharmacological assays were then conducted to further assess the efficacy of genetics-supported repurposed drugs for potential ALS therapy in various cellular models.

RESULTS

Through MR analysis, we identified potential ALS druggable genes in the blood, including TBK1 [OR 1.30, 95%CI (1.19, 1.42)], TNFSF12 [OR 1.36, 95%CI (1.19, 1.56)], GPX3 [OR 1.28, 95%CI (1.15, 1.43)], TNFSF13 [OR 0.45, 95%CI (0.32, 0.64)], and CD68 [OR 0.38, 95%CI (0.24, 0.58)]. Additionally, we identified potential ALS druggable genes in the brain, including RESP18 [OR 1.11, 95%CI (1.07, 1.16)], GPX3 [OR 0.57, 95%CI (0.48, 0.68)], GDF9 [OR 0.77, 95%CI (0.67, 0.88)], and PTPRN [OR 0.17, 95%CI (0.08, 0.34)]. Among them, TBK1, TNFSF12, RESP18, and GPX3 were confirmed in further colocalization analysis. We identified five drugs with repurposing opportunities targeting TBK1, TNFSF12, and GPX3, namely fostamatinib (R788), amlexanox (AMX), BIIB-023, RG-7212, and glutathione as potential repurposing drugs. R788 and AMX were prioritized due to their genetic supports, safety profiles, and cost-effectiveness evaluation. Further pharmacological analysis revealed that R788 and AMX mitigated neuroinflammation in ALS cell models characterized by overly active cGAS/STING signaling that was induced by MSA-2 or ALS-related toxic proteins (TDP-43 and SOD1), through the inhibition of TBK1 phosphorylation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our MR analyses provided genetic evidence supporting TBK1, TNFSF12, RESP18, and GPX3 as druggable genes for ALS treatment. Among the drug candidates targeting the above genes with repurposing opportunities, FDA-approved drug-R788 and AMX served as effective TBK1 inhibitors. The subsequent pharmacological studies validated the potential of R788 and AMX for treating specific ALS subtypes through the inhibition of TBK1 phosphorylation.

TNF-α promotes CXCL-1/8 production in keratinocytes by downregulating galectin-3 through NF-κB and hsa-miR-27a-3p pathway to contribute psoriasis development

OBJECTIVE

Treatment with TNF-α inhibitors improve psoriasis with minimize/minor neutrophils infiltration and CXCL-1/8 expression in psoriatic lesions. However, the fine mechanism of TNF-α initiating psoriatic inflammation by tuning keratinocytes is unclear. Our previous research identified the deficiency of intracellular galectin-3 was sufficient to promote psoriasis inflammation characterized by neutrophil accumulation. This study aims to investigate whether TNF-α participated in psoriasis development through dysregulating galectin-3 expression.

METHODS

mRNA levels were assessed through quantitative real-time PCR. Flow cytometry was used to detect cell cycle/apoptosis. Western blot was used to evaluate the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway. HE staining and immunochemistry were used to detect epidermal thickness and MPO expression, respectively. Specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to knock down hsa-miR-27a-3p while plasmids transfection was used to overexpress galectin-3. Further, the multiMiR R package was utilized to predict microRNA-target interaction.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

We found that TNF-α stimulation altered cell proliferation and differentiation and promoted the production of psoriasis-related inflammatory mediators along with the inhibition of galectin-3 expression in keratinocytes. Supplement of galectin-3 could counteract the rise of CXCL-1/8 but not the other phenotypes of keratinocytes induced by TNF-α. Mechanistically, inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway could counteract the decrease of galectin-3 and the increase of hsa-miR-27a-3p expression whereas silence of hsa-miR-27a-3p could counteract the decrease of galectin-3 expression induced by TNF-α treatment in keratinocytes. Intradermal injection of murine anti-CXCL-2 antibody greatly alleviated imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like dermatitis.

CONCLUSION

TNF-α initiates psoriatic inflammation by increasing CXCL-1/8 in keratinocytes mediated by the axis of NF-κB-hsa-miR-27a-3p-galectin-3 pathway.

[Clinical phenotype and genetic analysis of patients with left ventricular noncompaction caused by the biallelic mutation of MYBPC3 and MYH7]

Objective: To explore the relationship between pathogenic gene, mutation and phenotype of left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) patients and their family members. Methods: The subjects were the proband with LVNC and her family members. The medical history including electrocardiogram, echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance examination of the proband and family members were collected. Whole exome sequencing of the proband was performed, bioinformatics analysis focused on the genes related to hereditary cardiomyopathy. Candidate pathogenic sites were validated by Sanger sequencing. The clinical interpretation of sequence variants were classified according to American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidelines. Results: The proband carried a heterozygous variation of the MYBPC3 gene c.C2827T and the MYH7 gene c.G2221C. The proband's sister carried heterozygous variation of MYBPC3 gene c.C2827T. According to the ACMG guidelines, the variant was determined to be pathogenic. Conclusion: The missense variant of MYBPC3 gene c.C2827T and MYH7 gene c.G2221C are identified from the proband with LVNC and her family member, which provides a genetic basis for clinical diagnosis and genetic counseling of the patients and the family members with LVNC.

Single-cell transcriptome and metagenome profiling reveals the genetic basis of rumen functions and convergent developmental patterns in ruminants

The rumen undergoes developmental changes during maturation. To characterize this understudied dynamic process, we profiled single-cell transcriptomes of about 308,000 cells from the rumen tissues of sheep and goats at 17 time points. We built comprehensive transcriptome and metagenome atlases from early embryonic to rumination stages, and recapitulated histomorphometric and transcriptional features of the rumen, revealing key transitional signatures associated with the development of ruminal cells, microbiota, and core transcriptional regulatory networks. In addition, we identified and validated potential cross-talk between host cells and microbiomes and revealed their roles in modulating the spatiotemporal expression of key genes in ruminal cells. Cross-species analyses revealed convergent developmental patterns of cellular heterogeneity, gene expression, and cell-cell and microbiome-cell interactions. Finally, we uncovered how the interactions can act upon the symbiotic rumen system to modify the processes of fermentation, fiber digestion, and immune defense. These results significantly enhance understanding of the genetic basis of the unique roles of rumen.

Identifying novel genes for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis by integrating human brain proteomes with genome-wide association data

BACKGROUND

Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) have identified numerous risk genes for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS); however, the mechanisms by which these loci confer ALS risk are uncertain. This study aims to identify novel causal proteins in the brains of patients with ALS using an integrative analytical pipeline.

METHODS

Using the datasets of Protein Quantitative Trait Loci (pQTL) (N_pQTL1 = 376, N_pQTL2 = 152), expression QTL (eQTL) (N = 452), and the largest ALS GWAS (N_ALS=27,205, N_Controls = 110,881), we performed a systematic analytical pipeline including Proteome-Wide Association Study (PWAS), Mendelian Randomization (MR), Bayesian colocalization, and Transcriptome-Wide Association Study (TWAS) to identify novel causal proteins for ALS in the brain.

RESULTS

Using PWAS, we found that the altered protein abundance of 12 genes in the brain was associated with ALS. Three genes (SCFD1, SARM1 and CAMLG) were identified as lead causal genes for ALS with solid evidence (False discovery rate < 0.05, in MR analysis; PPH4 > 80% for Bayesian colocalization). Specifically, an increased abundance of SCFD1 and CAMLG led to an increased risk of ALS, whereas a higher abundance of SARM1 led to a decreased risk of developing ALS. TWAS showed that SCFD1 and CAMLG were related to ALS at the transcriptional level.

CONCLUSIONS

SCFD1, CAMLG, and SARM1 exhibited robust associations and causality with ALS. The study findings provide novel clues for identifying potential therapeutic targets in ALS. Further studies are required to explore the mechanisms underlying the identified genes.

Effects of Different Doses of Esketamine on Pain Sensitivity of Patients Undergoing Thyroidectomy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION

Several factors may lead to increased postoperative pain sensitivity, of which remifentanil-induced hyperalgesia (RIH) is one of the main factors. High-dose remifentanil exposure during anesthesia may induce RIH. Esketamine may prevent RIH by antagonizing N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, thereby reducing the postoperative pain sensitivity. This study examined the effects of different esketamine doses on pain sensitivity in patients undergoing thyroidectomy and determined the optimal dose.

METHODS

This study included 117 patients who received elective thyroidectomy. They were randomized into four groups: saline group (group C), esketamine 0.2 mg·kg^-1 group (group RK1), esketamine 0.4 mg·kg^-1 group (group RK2), and esketamine 0.6 mg·kg^-1 group (group RK3). Five minutes before anesthesia induction, the same volume of study drugs were injected respectively in groups C, RK1, RK2, and RK3. Remifentanil was pumped at the same rate of 0.3 µg·kg^-1·min^-1 during surgery to ensure uniformity. This study's primary outcomes were the mechanical pain thresholds measured before surgery, as well as at 30 min, 6 h, 24 h, and 48 h after surgery. Hyperalgesia, rescue analgesia, numerical rating scale (NRS) score, and adverse reactions were recorded.

RESULTS

Compared with baseline, the mechanical pain threshold was significantly decreased in group C [(94.67 ± 22.85) versus (112.00 ± 36.62) versus (161.33 ± 53.28) g, P < 0.001 at 30 min, P < 0.001 at 6 h] and group RK1 [(102.86 ± 24.17) versus (114.29 ± 41.05) versus (160.00 ± 54.98) g, P < 0.001 at 30 min, P < 0.001 at 6 h] around the surgical incision, and in group C [(112.00 ± 31.78) versus (170.67 ± 56.26) g, P < 0.001 at 30 min, (118.67 ± 34.42) versus (170.67 ± 56.26) g, P = 0.001 at 6 h] and group RK1 [(114.29 ± 45.17) versus (175.71 ± 54.80) g, P = 0.001 at 30 min, (121.43 ± 38.46) versus (175.71 ± 54.80) g, P = 0.002 at 6 h] on the forearm at 30 min and 6 h after surgery; compared with group C, the mechanical pain threshold was higher in group RK2 [(142.76 ± 50.06) versus (94.67 ± 22.85) g, P < 0.001 at 30 min, (145.52 ± 49.83) versus (112.00 ± 36.62) g, P < 0.001 at 6 h] and group RK3 [(140.00 ± 40.68) versus (94.67 ± 22.85) g, P < 0.001 at 30 min, (150.67 ± 56.50) versus (112.00 ± 36.62) g, P = 0.010 at 6 h] around the surgical incision, and in group RK2 [(149.66 ± 39.50) versus (112.00 ± 31.78) g, P = 0.006 at 30 min, (156.55 ± 47.23) versus (118.67 ± 34.42) g, P = 0.005 at 6 h] and group RK3 [(145.33 ± 51.18) versus (112.00 ± 31.78) g, P = 0.018 at 30 min, (154.67 ± 47.54) versus (118.67 ± 34.42) g, P = 0.008 at 6 h] on the forearm at 30 min and 6 h after surgery. Group RK3 had more glandular secretions than the other three groups (P = 0.042).

CONCLUSIONS

Intravenous injection of esketamine 0.4 mg·kg^-1 before anesthesia induction is a suitable dose to reduce pain sensitivity in patients undergoing thyroidectomy without increasing adverse reactions. However, future research needs to be extended to other populations.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Registered at the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry http://www.chictr.org.cn/ (09/06/2022, ChiCTR-2200060741).

HIF-1α-regulated lncRNA-TUG1 promotes mitochondrial dysfunction and pyroptosis by directly binding to FUS in myocardial infarction

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a fatal heart disease that affects millions of lives worldwide each year. This study investigated the roles of HIF-1α/lncRNA-TUG1 in mitochondrial dysfunction and pyroptosis in MI. CCK-8, DHE, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays, and JC-1 staining were performed to measure proliferation, reactive oxygen species (ROS), LDH leakage, and mitochondrial damage in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-treated cardiomyocytes. Enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) and flow cytometry were used to detect LDH, creatine kinase (CK), and its isoenzyme (CK-MB) levels and caspase-1 activity. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), luciferase assay, and RNA-immunoprecipitation (RIP) were used to assess the interaction between HIF-1α, TUG1, and FUS. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry were used to measure HIF-1α, TUG1 and pyroptosis-related molecules. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE), 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC), and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP risk end labelling (TUNEL) staining were employed to examine the morphology, infarction area, and myocardial injury in the MI mouse model. Mitochondrial dysfunction and pyroptosis were induced in H/R-treated cardiomyocytes, accompanied by an increase in the expression of HIF-α and TUG1. HIF-1α promoted TUG1 expression by directly binding to the TUG1 promoter. TUG1 silencing inhibited H/R-induced ROS production, mitochondrial injury and the expression of the pyroptosis-related proteins NLRP3, caspase-1 and GSDMD. Additionally, H/R elevated FUS levels in cardiomyocytes, which were directly inhibited by TUG1 silencing. Fused in sarcoma (FUS) overexpression reversed the effect of TUG1 silencing on mitochondrial damage and caspase-1 activation. However, the ROS inhibitor N-acetylcysteine (NAC) promoted the protective effect of TUG1 knockdown on H/R-induced cardiomyocyte damage. The in vivo MI model showed increased infarction, myocardial injury, ROS levels and pyroptosis, which were inhibited by TUG1 silencing. HIF-1α targeting upregulated TUG1 promotes mitochondrial damage and cardiomyocyte pyroptosis by combining with FUS, thereby promoting the occurrence of MI. HIF-1α/TUG1/FUS may serve as a potential treatment target for MI.

The Positive Rate of Nucleic Acid Testing and the Epidemiological Characteristics of COVID-19 in Chongqing

Objective

The purpose of this study is to analyze the positive rate of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) nucleic acid testing (NAT), cases of and deaths due to SARS-CoV-2, and the epidemiological characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 to identify high-risk populations.

Methods

A retrospective study in Jiulongpo district of Chongqing was conducted by performing continuous observations of the frequency of SARS-CoV-2 NAT, analyzing the data of close contacts of patients and asymptomatic carriers, and collecting epidemiological data. Data were collected from January 20, 2020, when the first case of SARS-CoV-2 infection was reported, to March 26, 2020. Descriptive statistical analysis and Cochrane–Mantel–Haenszel analysis were used to compare the positive detection rates and positive diagnostic rates of different exposure groups.

Results

A total of 7,118 people received 10,377 SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid tests in one district, and the SARS-CoV-2 positive rates were 0.40% (18/4446) and 0.15% (4/2672) in people receiving one and ≥ two nucleic acid tests (p = 0.06), respectively. Those with suspected cases (12.35%) and close contacts (8%) had higher positive rates than people tested at fever clinics (0.39%) (p < 0.001). The median latency (range) of cases was 5 (2, 9) days, and the median time from diagnosis to recovery was 22 (14, 25) days. One recovered patient received a positive test result at 28 days after recovery when she attempted to donate blood. Six clustered cases, including one patient who died, indicated persistent human-to-human transmission. One patient who was diagnosed after death was found to have infected 13 close contacts. People working in catering and other public service departments (36.36%) and people who are unemployed and retirees (45.45%) have an increased risk of infection compared with technical staff (9.09%) and farmers (9.09%).

Conclusion

The total positive rate was low in the tested population, and more effective detection ranges should be defined to improve precise and differentiated epidemic control strategies. Moreover, in asymptomatic carriers, SARS-CoV-2 tests were positive after recovery, and patients with suspected SARS-CoV-2 infection who die may pose serious potential transmission threats.

Whole-genome resequencing of worldwide wild and domestic sheep elucidates genetic diversity, introgression and agronomically important loci

Domestic sheep and their wild relatives harbor substantial genetic variants that can form the backbone of molecular breeding, but their genome landscapes remain understudied. Here, we present a comprehensive genome resource for wild ovine species, landraces and improved breeds of domestic sheep, comprising high-coverage (∼16.10×) whole genomes of 810 samples from 7 wild species and 158 diverse domestic populations. We detected, in total, ∼121.2 million single nucleotide polymorphisms, ∼61 million of which are novel. Some display significant (P < 0.001) differences in frequency between wild and domestic species, or are private to continent-wide or individual sheep populations. Retained or introgressed wild gene variants in domestic populations have contributed to local adaptation, such as the variation in the HBB associated with plateau adaptation. We identified novel and previously reported targets of selection on morphological and agronomic traits such as stature, horn, tail configuration, and wool fineness. We explored the genetic basis of wool fineness and unveiled a novel mutation (chr25: T7,068,586C) in the 3′-UTR of IRF2BP2 as plausible causal variant for fleece fiber diameter. We reconstructed prehistorical migrations from the Near Eastern domestication center to South-and-Southeast Asia and found two main waves of migrations across the Eurasian Steppe and the Iranian Plateau in the Early and Late Bronze Ages. Our findings refine our understanding of genome variation as shaped by continental migrations, introgression, adaptation, and selection of sheep.

Optimal reference genes for real-time quantitative PCR and the expression of sigma factors in Acidithiobacillus caldus under various conditions

AIMS

Acidithiobacillus caldus is an important sulphur-oxidizing bacterium that plays crucial roles in the bioleaching industry. This study aims to analyse the optimal reference gene for real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) under different conditions and investigate the transcription levels of the sigma factor genes in the stress response.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We selected six housekeeping genes and analysed them via RT-qPCR using two energy resources, under four stress conditions. Three statistical approaches BestKeeper, geNorm, and NormFinder were utilized to determine transcription stability of these reference genes. The gapdH gene was the best internal control gene using elemental sulphur as an energy resource and under heat stress, map was the best internal control gene under pH and osmotic stress, era was the best internal control gene for the K₂ S₄ O₆ energy resource, and rpoC was the best internal control gene under Cu²⁺ stress. Furthermore, the expressional levels of 11 sigma factors were analysed by RT-qPCR in the stress response.

CONCLUSIONS

Stable internal control genes for RT-qPCR analysis of A. caldus were determined, and the expression patterns of sigma factor genes of A. caldus were investigated.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The identification of the optimal reference gene and analysis of transcription levels of sigma factors in A. caldus can provide clues for reference gene selection and the study of sigma factor function.

Paternal Origins and Migratory Episodes of Domestic Sheep

The domestication and subsequent global dispersal of livestock are crucial events in human history, but the migratory episodes during the history of livestock remain poorly documented [1-3]. Here, we first developed a set of 493 novel ovine SNPs of the male-specific region of Y chromosome (MSY) by genome mapping. We then conducted a comprehensive genomic analysis of Y chromosome, mitochondrial DNA, and whole-genome sequence variations in a large number of 595 rams representing 118 domestic populations across the world. We detected four different paternal lineages of domestic sheep and resolved, at the global level, their paternal origins and differentiation. In Northern European breeds, several of which have retained primitive traits (e.g., a small body size and short or thin tails), and fat-tailed sheep, we found an overrepresentation of MSY lineages y-HC and y-HB, respectively. Using an approximate Bayesian computation approach, we reconstruct the demographic expansions associated with the segregation of primitive and fat-tailed phenotypes. These results together with archaeological evidence and historical data suggested the first expansion of early domestic hair sheep and the later expansion of fat-tailed sheep occurred ∼11,800-9,000 years BP and ∼5,300-1,700 years BP, respectively. These findings provide important insights into the history of migration and pastoralism of sheep across the Old World, which was associated with different breeding goals during the Neolithic agricultural revolution.

Whole-genome resequencing of wild and domestic sheep identifies genes associated with morphological and agronomic traits

Understanding the genetic changes underlying phenotypic variation in sheep (Ovis aries) may facilitate our efforts towards further improvement. Here, we report the deep resequencing of 248 sheep including the wild ancestor (O. orientalis), landraces, and improved breeds. We explored the sheep variome and selection signatures. We detected genomic regions harboring genes associated with distinct morphological and agronomic traits, which may be past and potential future targets of domestication, breeding, and selection. Furthermore, we found non-synonymous mutations in a set of plausible candidate genes and significant differences in their allele frequency distributions across breeds. We identified PDGFD as a likely causal gene for fat deposition in the tails of sheep through transcriptome, RT-PCR, qPCR, and Western blot analyses. Our results provide insights into the demographic history of sheep and a valuable genomic resource for future genetic studies and improved genome-assisted breeding of sheep and other domestic animals.

Ultra-long high quality catalyst-free WO3 nanowires for fabricating high-performance visible photodetectors

This work presents a study on the controlled growth of WO₃ nanowires via chemical vapor deposition without catalyst, and their potential applications in visible photodetectors. The influence of growth conditions on the morphology of WO₃ nanowires is studied in order to understand the growth mechanism of WO₃ nanowires, and ultra-long (60 [Formula: see text], the longest one ever reported) WO₃ nanowires with a spindle shape are achieved by optimizing the growth conditions. It was found that the length of WO₃ nanowires increases from 15 [Formula: see text] to 60 [Formula: see text] with increasing the argon carrier gas flow rate from 30 sccm to 90 sccm, and then saturates with further increasing the argon carrier gas flow rate. However, the length of WO₃ nanowires reduces from 60 [Formula: see text] to 19 [Formula: see text] with increasing the tube inner pressure from 2.5 Torr to 3.5 Torr. The photoconductor detectors based on WO₃ single nanowires present excellent device performance with a responsivity as high as 19 A W^-1 at a bias of 0.1 V, a detectivity as high as 1.06 × 10¹¹ Jones, and a response (rising and decay) time as short as 8 ms under the illumination of a 404 nm laser. These results indicate the great potential of WO₃ nanowires for applications in fabricating high performance visible photodetectors.

Sequencing and analysis of the complete mitochondrial genome of Bactrocera cheni from China and its phylogenetic analysis

The complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of the Bactrocera cheni (Diptera: Tephritidae: Dacinae) are sequenced and annotated. The mitochondrial genome is 15,945 bp (GenBank No. MN883026), with A + T% for the whole sequence = 73.0% (38.9% A, 16.4% C, 10.6% G, and 34.1% T), which is the classical structure for insect mitogenome. All PCGs started with ATN except ATP8; 9 PCGs use TAA as the stop codon, and others use TAG as the stop codon. The phylogenetic tree confirms that B. cheni and B. tsuneonis are not clade into one branch with strongly supported. And Pairwise Identity is 80.0% between B. cheni and B. tsuneonis. Based this study, we supported that B. cheni and B. tsuneonis are two different species clearly.

Complete mitochondrial genome of Dacus trimacula (Diptera: Tephritidae) using next-generation sequencing from China

The complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of the fruit fly species Dacus trimacula (Diptera: Tephritidae: Dacinae) are sequenced and annotated. The mitochondrial genome is 15,851 bp (GenBank No. MK940811) has an A + T content of 72.8% (A 39.2%; C 17.0%; G 10.2%, and T 33.6%), which is the classical structure for insect mitogenome. All PCGs started with ATN and stopped with TAN. The phylogenetic tree confirms that D. trimacula clustered with D. longicornis as the sister group to Zeugodacus. This study enriches the mitogenomes of the fruit flies.

[A preliminary evaluation and discussion on the value of the medical content of book 'Zhu Bing Ⅰ', a medical bamboo compilation excavated from a Han dynasty tomb in Laoguanshan]

The compilation of medical bamboo slips, which are excavated from a Han dynasty tomb in Laoguanshan(Mount. Laoguan), has two manuscripts: 'Zhu Bing Ⅰ(cases study Ⅰ)'and 'Zhu Bing Ⅱ(cases study Ⅱ)'. 'Zhu Bing Ⅰ'mainly discussed the pathogenic factor "wind" and "wind diseases" . It also analyzed the features of pathogenic factor "wind" . It classified the "wind diseases" into 17 kinds from 4 point views, and documented the symptoms of 17 kinds of "wind disease" . It was first time that its most ideas were documented in traditional Chinese medicine literatures.

Propofol promotes apoptosis of colorectal cancer cells via alleviating the suppression of lncRNA HOXA11-AS on miRNA let-7i

To date, surgical resection is the mainstay for the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC). Propofol (2,6-diisopropylphenol), one of the most commonly used intravenous anaesthetic agents, has been reported to be involved in modulating the malignancy of a variety of human cancers. However, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. In this study, using a cell counting kit (CCK-8), flow cytometry, and caspase-3 cleavage assays, we found that propofol promoted cell apoptosis and inhibited cell proliferation in both Colo205 and SW620 cells, through the down-regulation of HOXA11-AS and up-regulation of let-7i. Moreover, gain-of-function studies of HOXA11-AS or loss-of-function studies of let-7i also revealed a negative correlation between HOXA11-AS and let-7i in propofol-mediated biological functions of CRC cells. Furthermore, our mechanistic experiments revealed that HOXA11-AS acts as a molecular sponge for let-7i, thereby regulating the expression of ABCC10. We investigate the theory that propofol suppresses colorectal cancer tumorigenesis by modulating the HOXA11-AS-let-7i-ABCC10 regulatory network, indicating the potential for propofol to control CRC development.

[A preliminary study on the outcome of lower-risk myelodysplastic syndrome by low-dose decitabine]

目的

评价小剂量地西他滨治疗较低危骨髓增生异常综合征（MDS）患者的初步疗效及安全性，探讨MDS相关基因突变的临床意义。

方法

纳入浙江省4所医院收治的62例较低危MDS患者，治疗分2组，地西他滨组（地西他滨12 mg·m⁻²·d⁻¹，连续5 d）和支持治疗组，检测与MDS预后相关的15项基因突变情况。比较两组患者的总体有效率（ORR）和无进展生存（PFS）时间，分析其与基因突变的相关性。

结果

62例患者中，可评估患者51例，其中地西他滨组24例，支持治疗组27例。与支持治疗组相比，地西他滨组的ORR（66.7%对29.6%，χ²=6.996，P=0.008）和中位PFS时间显著改善（未达到对13.7个月，P=0.037）。51例患者中20例（39.2%）检测到基因突变阳性，其中4例患者单纯SF3B1阳性，均在支持治疗组。与基因突变阴性患者相比，16例基因突变阳性（除单纯SF3B1阳性）患者中位PFS时间显著缩短（9.2个月对18.5个月，P=0.008），其中地西他滨组8例患者中6例有效，支持治疗组无一例（0/8）有效。地西他滨治疗期间主要不良反应为3~4级粒细胞减少（45.8%），3~4级感染发生率为33.3%（8/24）。

结论

该研究小系列患者的初步结果表明应用小剂量地西他滨治疗较低危MDS患者可能有效，对于基因突变患者也可获益，且患者耐受，值得临床试验进一步明确其临床意义。

[Clinical analysis of lower limb thrombosis caused by paraquat poisoning]

Objective: To investigate the causes of peripheral vascular thrombosis in patients with paraquat poisoning. Methods: The patients with paraquat poisoning who were admitted to our department in recent two years were observed to screen out the patients with large vessel thrombosis. The data on toxic exposure history, clinical features, and treatment were collected to analyze the causes of thrombosis in the patients with paraquat poisoning. Results: Three patients had typical lower limb thrombosis. There was one case of right common femoral vein thrombosis, one case of bilateral calf muscle vein thrombosis, and one case of right calf superficial vein thrombosis and right calf muscle vein thrombosis. Conclusions: After paraquat poisoning, the blood is in a hypercoagulable state and prolonged bed rest may increase the risk of thrombosis.

Genome-Wide Association Analyses Highlight the Potential for Different Genetic Mechanisms for Litter Size Among Sheep Breeds

Reproduction is an important trait in sheep breeding as well as in other livestock. However, despite its importance the genetic mechanisms of litter size in domestic sheep (Ovis aries) are still poorly understood. To explore genetic mechanisms underlying the variation in litter size, we conducted multiple independent genome-wide association studies in five sheep breeds of high prolificacy (Wadi, Hu, Icelandic, Finnsheep, and Romanov) and one low prolificacy (Texel) using the Ovine Infinium HD BeadChip, respectively. We identified different sets of candidate genes associated with litter size in different breeds: BMPR1B, FBN1, and MMP2 in Wadi; GRIA2, SMAD1, and CTNNB1 in Hu; NCOA1 in Icelandic; INHBB, NF1, FLT1, PTGS2, and PLCB3 in Finnsheep; ESR2 in Romanov and ESR1, GHR, ETS1, MMP15, FLI1, and SPP1 in Texel. Further annotation of genes and bioinformatics analyses revealed that different biological pathways could be involved in the variation in litter size of females: hormone secretion (FSH and LH) in Wadi and Hu, placenta and embryonic lethality in Icelandic, folliculogenesis and LH signaling in Finnsheep, ovulation and preovulatory follicle maturation in Romanov, and estrogen and follicular growth in Texel. Taken together, our results provide new insights into the genetic mechanisms underlying the prolificacy trait in sheep and other mammals, suggesting targets for selection where the aim is to increase prolificacy in breeding projects.

Genomic Reconstruction of the History of Native Sheep Reveals the Peopling Patterns of Nomads and the Expansion of Early Pastoralism in East Asia

China has a rich resource of native sheep (Ovis aries) breeds associated with historical movements of several nomadic societies. However, the history of sheep and the associated nomadic societies in ancient China remains poorly understood. Here, we studied the genomic diversity of Chinese sheep using genome-wide SNPs, mitochondrial and Y-chromosomal variations in > 1,000 modern samples. Population genomic analyses combined with archeological records and historical ethnic demographics data revealed genetic signatures of the origins, secondary expansions and admixtures, of Chinese sheep thereby revealing the peopling patterns of nomads and the expansion of early pastoralism in East Asia. Originating from the Mongolian Plateau ∼5,000‒5,700 years ago, Chinese sheep were inferred to spread in the upper and middle reaches of the Yellow River ∼3,000‒5,000 years ago following the expansions of the Di-Qiang people. Afterwards, sheep were then inferred to reach the Qinghai-Tibetan and Yunnan-Kweichow plateaus ∼2,000‒2,600 years ago by following the north-to-southwest routes of the Di-Qiang migration. We also unveiled two subsequent waves of migrations of fat-tailed sheep into northern China, which were largely commensurate with the migrations of ancestors of Hui Muslims eastward and Mongols southward during the 12th‒13th centuries. Furthermore, we revealed signs of argali introgression into domestic sheep, extensive historical mixtures among domestic populations and strong artificial selection for tail type and other traits, reflecting various breeding strategies by nomadic societies in ancient China.

Estradiol‑enhanced osteogenesis of rat bone marrow stromal cells is associated with the JNK pathway

Bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) can differentiate into osteoblasts. The present study investigated the osteogenic effects of estradiol, as well as the role of the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling pathway in promoting estradiol-enhanced osteogenesis of rat (r)BMSCs. rBMSCs were treated for 7 days with or without estradiol and further treated with or without the JNK-specific inhibitor SP600125. The role of estrogen during rBMSC osteogenesis was evaluated by alkaline phosphatase activity and mineralized nodule formation using the Gomori method and Alizarin red S staining, respectively. Subsequently, the mRNA expression levels of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and core-binding factor α1 (Cbfα1) were evaluated by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and TGF-β1, Cbfα1 and phosphorylated (p)-JNK protein expression was detected by western blotting. All groups treated with SP600125 expressed low levels of TGF-β1 and Cbfα1 mRNA and protein, and low p-JNK protein expression. Compared with the control cells, rBMSCs cultured with estradiol exhibited a significant upregulation in the expression levels of osteogenic genes and proteins. The present study demonstrated that estradiol enhanced osteogenic differentiation of rBMSCs and that the JNK signaling pathway was involved in this process, providing insights into the molecular mechanisms involved in rBMSC osteogenesis upon estradiol stimulation.

[Dioxin Pollution and Occupational Inhalation Exposure of PCDD/Fs in Municipal Solid Waste Incinerator]

To assess the pollution levels, characteristics, and the pollution sources and occupational inhalation exposure of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans(PCDD/Fs)in the workshops,ambient air samples in different types of incinerators of two municipal solid waste incinerators(MSWI) were collected and analyzed. The results showed that ① The I-TEQ concentration ranged from 0.034-2.152 pg·m^-3in the two waste incineration plants, and the most sites' I-TEQ exceeded the ambient air quality standard. Besides, the I-TEQ concentration behind the incineration plant was higher than others. ② The dioxins in incineration plant were dominated by OCDD and 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDD. For MSWI A, the flue gas and the fly ash had major effect on PCDD/Fs, while the dioxins pollution in MSWI B was only affected by the fly ash. ③ Occupational inhalation exposure of PCDD/Fs was 0.01-1.10 pg·(kg·d)^-1 in incineration plant, some occupational inhalation exposure values exceeded the evaluation standard, and the areas behind the incinerators were evaluated to have a high exposure risk.

[A preliminary discussion on the contents and value of All Diseases(1), the medical bamboo slips unearthed from Han tomb in Laoguanshan of Chengdu]

Among the medical bamboo slips unearthed from Han tomb in Laoguanshan of Chengdu, the Zhu bing (All Diseases) is a monograph to discuss the characteristics of signs and symptoms. Based on the differences of writing styles, diseases involved, expounding methods and writing rules, the book is divided, by the research team, into 2 parts: All Diseases(1) and All Diseases(2). All Diseases(1) includes over 130 slips, 2 000 characters with totally more than 100 disease names, containing multiple clinical disciplines. The elaborated classification, varied naming methods, grasping the symptom characteristics guided by the four diagnostic approaches, paying attention to the comparison of similar diseases, and dealing with the prognosis and healthcare in this part reflect the holism of correspondence between human body and natural environment, and syndrome differentiation thought of combining disease with symptoms and signs, revealing its academic significance.

[A preliminary discussion on the contents and value of Shi er mai (Twelve Channels) and Bie mai (Allo-channels), the medical bamboo slips unearthed from Han tomb in Laoguanshan of Chengdu]

The 52 medical bamboo slips entitled Si er ma (Twelve Channels) and Bie mai (Allo-channels) , unearthed from Han tomb in Laoguanshan, are the exclusive medical books concerning channels. Shi er mai is the first work bearing the term " heart dominating channel" , and the running pathways and manifestations of 12 channels. This book could be the major original sources of the 12-channel theories described in the Chapter of Jing mai (Channels) of Ling shu (Miraculous Pivot) . While Bie mai suggests the coexistence of the multi-channel systems at the time when the book was compiled and, together with the 12 "channel" , and 3 "branched collaterals" , these 2 books represent the original condition before the establishment of the mode of channel circulation in Ling shu, and is significant to explore the nature and origin of channel.

[A preliminary evaluation and discussion on the significance of the medical bamboo slips Ci shu (Needling Methods) unearthed from a Han tomb in the Mount. Laoguan, Chengdu]

The compilation of medical bamboo slips, Ci shu(Needling Methods), which was unearthed from a Han tomb in Mt. Laoguan, is a monograph dealing exclusively with the principles of clinical acupuncture manipulations with 40 acupuncture prescriptions, being the earliest unearthed work with documented standard methods of acupuncture manipulations and acupuncture prescriptions in China. The chapter Zhen fang (Acupuncture Prescriptions) is the earliest summary of standardized acupoint prescriptions up to now in China, which is of great significance to clinical practice directly derived from ancient clinical performance of acupuncture. The chapter Zhen fang of the book Ci shu is also one of the earliest ancient clinical reports archiving the acupoint. This may provide invaluable perspectives to the study of the conceptualization, origination, development, formation of theoretical system, and clinical application of acupoints.

[Discussion on the species and naming of medical bamboo slips unearthed from Han tomb in Laoguanshan]

920 pieces of bamboo slip, including broken bamboo slips, found in Laoguanshan Han tomb, are placed in two locations. In one of the location, 736 pieces, except 20 pieces of " chi jian" , of medical bamboo slips are stored. The Chengdu Municipal Institute of Archaeology and Cultural Relics Protection Center of Jingzhou preliminary sorted out these pieces and tentatively give them the names: Wu se mai zang lun, Bi xi yi lun, Mai si hou, Liu shi bing fang, Bing yuan lun, Zhu bing zheng hou, Jing mai shu, Gui mai shu. Through our comprehensive reading, font comparison, comparison of the contents, and investigation on the texts, it was suggested that the batch of medical slips might be divided into nine kinds of documents, namely, Bi xi zhen fa, Zhen zhi lun, Liu shi bing fang, Zhu bing yi, Zhu bing er, Shi er mai, Bie mai, Ci shu, Ni shun wu se mai zang yan jing shen.

Anti-proliferative and cytoskeleton-disruptive effects of icariin on HepG2 cells

Several biological properties of icariin have been identified, including its anticancer effect. However, the potential mechanisms underlying the effect of icariin on HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cells remain to be elucidated. The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of icariin on the proliferation and cytoskeleton of HepG2 cells. A 3‑(4,5‑dimethylthiazol‑2‑yl)‑2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay was used to assess the antiproliferative effects of icariin and to determine the optimal concentration and treatment schedule of icariin on the HepG2 cells. Cell cycle analysis was performed using fluorescence activated cell sorting, the protein expression of B‑cell lymphoma (Bcl)‑2 was determined using immunohistochemical and western blot analyses, and F‑actin in the cells was examined using confocal microscopy. The chemotherapeutic drug, oxaliplatin, was used as a positive control. The results demonstrated that the optimal concentration of icarrin to produce an antiproliferative effect on HepG2 cells was 10‑5 mol/l, and the optimal treatment duration was 72 h. The icariin group had a significantly higher proportion of cells in the G0/G1 phase, compared with the control group, treated with high glucose Dulbecco's modified Eagles medium with 10% fetal bovine serum (P<0.05). The proportion of HepG2 cells in the S phase was significantly lower in the oxaliplatin (24.19%; P<0.05) and icariin (21.07%; P<0.01) groups, compared with the control group (28.62%). Icariin markedly decreased the expression of Bcl‑2, compared with the control (P<0.01), and disrupted the polymerization of F‑actin filaments in the HepG2 cells. Therefore, the present study demonstrated that, at an optimum concentration of 10‑5 mol/l, icariin inhibited the proliferation of the HepG2 cells, promoted apoptosis by decreasing the expression of Bcl‑2, and disrupted the actin cytoskeleton.

[Expression characteristics of epithelial markers in human embryonic stem cells differentiating into keratinocytes]

OBJECTIVE

To differentiate human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) into keratinocytes (K-hESCs) and analyse the expression characteristics of biomarkers of K-hESCs.

METHODS

The hESCs of line H9 were seeded on matrigel in mTeSR1 medium. The hESCs were directly differentiated into keratinocytes in epithelial differentiation medium with bone morphogenetic protein 4, retinoic acid and N2 supplement. The karyotype of K-hESCs was analyzed, comparing the gene expression differences of K-hESCs with human gingival epithelial cells (HGECs), human immortalized oral epithelial cells (HIOECs) and HaCaT by Real-time PCR. Molecular characteristics of the cell differentiation were observed throughout the process by immunocytochemical techniques.

RESULTS

H9-hESCs were successfully differentiated into the cells that exhibited characteristics of keratinocytes in epithelial differentiation medium. The karyotype of K-hESCs was 46, XX; and the keratinocyte gene p63 expression in K-hESCs was significantly lower than that in HaCaT (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference of p63 expression in K-hESCs, comparing with that in HGECs and HIOECs (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

H9-hESCs could be directly differentiated into K-hESCs. The gene expression of K-hESCs was similar to that of epithelial cells in the early stage of monolayer cells differentiation with high proliferative activity.

Aerobic degradation of tetrabromobisphenol-A by microbes in river sediment

This study investigated the aerobic degradation of tetrabromobisphenol-A (TBBPA) and changes in the microbial community in river sediment from southern Taiwan. Aerobic degradation rate constants (k(1)) and half-lives (t(1/2)) for TBBPA (50 μg g(-1)) ranged from 0.053 to 0.077 d(-1) and 9.0 to 13.1 d, respectively. The degradation of TBBPA (50 μg g(-1)) was enhanced by adding yeast extract (5 mg L(-1)), sodium chloride (10 ppt), cellulose (0.96 mg L(-1)), humic acid (0.5 g L(-1)), brij 30 (55 μM), brij 35 (91 μM), rhamnolipid (130 mg L(-1)), or surfactin (43 mg L(-1)), with rhamnolipid yielding a higher TBBPA degradation than the other additives. For different toxic chemicals in the sediment, the results showed the high-to-low order of degradation rates were bisphenol-A (BPA) (50 μg g(-1))>nonylphenol (NP) (50 μg g(-1))>4,4'-dibrominated diphenyl ether (BDE-15) (50 μg g(-1))>TBBPA (50 μg g(-1))>2,2',3,3',4,4',5,5',6,6'-decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) (50 μg g(-1)). The addition of various treatments changed the microbial community in river sediments. The results also showed that Bacillus pumilus and Rhodococcus ruber were the dominant bacteria in the process of TBBPA degradation in the river sediments.

[Effect of homoharringtonine combined with AG490 on JAK2-STAT5 associated signal pathway in HEL cells]

This study was aimed to explore the effect of homoharringtonine in combination with AG490 on JAK2-STAT5 associated signal pathway in HEL cells, and analyze its mechanism so as to provide theoretical basis for therapy of chronic myeloproliferative neoplasma by new program. The cell survival rates were tested by MTT, apoptosis was tested by flow cytometry after HEL cells were treated by 20 ng/ml HHT, 100 µmol/L AG490 and 20 ng/ml HHT in combination with 100 µmol/L AG490, while the signal proteins such as P-JAK2, P-STAT5 and BCL-xL activated by abnormal activated JAK2 were tested by Western blot. The results showed that both HHT and AG490 could inhabit the HEL cell proliferation after being treated for 24 hours, and Annexin V-PI double staining confirmed early apoptosis while HHT effect was more obvious, Western blot showed that the expressions of P-JAK2 and P-STAT5 were down-regulated, while the total protein levels of JAK2 and STAT5 were stable. It is concluded that HHT combined with AG490 can obviously inhibit the proliferation and induce early apoptosis of HEL cells, and there is synergistic effect between the two drugs. HHT possibly acts as a broad-spectrum PTK inhibitor and synergistically with AG490 inhibits the phosphorylation of signal proteins caused by JAK2V617F, thus down-regulating the transcription of STAT5.

[Event-related potentials in character semantic priming of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder children and normal children: a comparative study]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the cognitive event related potentials in Chinese character priming effect of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and to analyze the neural mechanism of the priming effect.

METHODS

Fifty-two ADHD children aged (9.5 +/- 1.7) and 45 age-matched children without ADHD were asked to perform a Chinese character semantic priming task while electroencephalogram was recorded. During the Chinese character semantic priming task the subjects were instructed to judge whether the presented target word was a related word, unrelated word, or a pseudoword and event-related potentials (ERPs) were elicited and analyzed with the brain electricity source analysis (BESA) software.

RESULTS

(1) The behavioral results showed that the reaction time to the unrelated character stimuli in the ADHD children was (1252 +/- 256) ms, significantly longer than that in the normal control [(1131 +/- 194) ms, P < 0.05]. (2) The amplitude of the character related N2 at the Cz lead in the ADHD children was -7.7 (-12.8, -5.0) microV, significantly larger than that of the normal controls [-5.6 (-9.4, -3.2) microV, P < 0.05]. (3) The amplitude of character unrelated stimuli P3 at the Cz lead of the ADHD children was 5.4 (2.0, 9.5) microV, significantly lower than that of the normal control [9.5 (4.2, 16.9) microV, P < 0.01].

CONCLUSION

There is a positive correlation between the amplitude of N2 and the difficulty in character semantic priming. It is more difficult for the ADHD children than normal controls to accomplish the same semantic task. ADHD children need more attention resources than normal controls. The amplitudes of character related-N2 and unrelated-P3 may become markers to measure the development of recognition in the ADHD children, thus being helpful in the ADHD diagnosis.

Simultaneous determination of two active components in compound aspirin tablets using principal component artificial neural networks (PC-ANNs) on NIR spectroscopy

A method for simultaneous, non-destructive analysis of aspirin and phenacetin in compound aspirin tablets with different concentrations has been developed by principal component artificial neural networks (PC-ANNs) on near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. In PC-ANNs models, the spectra data were first analyzed by principal component analysis (PCA). Then the scores of the principal compounds (PCs) were chosen as input nodes for input layer instead of the spectra data. The artificial neural networks (ANNs) models using the spectra data as input nodes were also established, which were compared with the PC-ANNs models. Four different preprocessing methods (first-derivation, second-derivation, standard normal variate (SNV) and multiplicative scatter correction (MSC)) were applied to NIR conventional spectra. The result shows the first-derivative model of PC-ANNs multivariate calibration has the lowest training errors and predicting errors. The concept of the degree of approximation was introduced and performed as the selective criterion of the optimum network parameters.

Micrometastases detected by cytokeratin 19 expression in sentinel lymph nodes of patients with early-stage cervical cancer

The purpose of this study was to detect micrometastases in sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) analyses for cytokeratin 19 (CK19) expression in early-stage cervical cancer. One hundred twenty-five SLNs were collected from 46 patients with early-stage cervical cancer. Conventional histopathologic techniques revealed 14 metastatic SLNs from 11 out of 46 patients. CK19 expression was detected by RT-PCR and IHC in all the 125 SLNs. Cervical cancer tissues from nine patients and five pelvic lymph nodes from the patients without tumor were utilized as positive and negative controls, respectively. All the metastastic SLNs on conventional histopathologic techniques were positive by either RT-PCR or IHC analyses, while all the positive controls were positive and all the negative controls were negative as expected. Of 35 patients without metastatic SLNs on conventional histopathologic techniques, the detection rate of micrometastases was 42.85% by RT-PCR and 20% by IHC analyses. RT-PCR and IHC were more sensitive to identify micrometastases in SLNs of patients with early-stage cervical cancer than routine pathology. These findings demonstrated that micrometastasis could be identified by molecular technique such as RT-PCR and IHC analyses for CK19 expression. RT-PCR was more sensitive to detect micrometastases in SLNs than IHC in patients with early-stage cervical cancer. Therefore, molecular assessment of the SLNs may be a valuable tool to complement routine histologic examination of cervical cancer. The importance of micrometastases in SLNs is under close clinical observation to determine whether it can be used as a predicting factor to help us make decision whether to proceed with whole-pelvic lymph node dissection or as a prognostic factor for clinical outcome.

[Experimental study of the effects on proliferation and apoptosis of A549 cell line of adenocarcinoma of the lung with compatibility of Radix ex Rhizoma ginseng and Fafces Trogopterori]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effects of the compatibility of Radix ex Rhizoma Ginseng and Fafces Trogopterori on proliferation and apoptosis of A549 cell line of adenocarcinoma of the lung, to clarify the mechanism, to explore the best proportion compatibility, and to offer the reasonable experiment evidence in clinical medicine therapy.

METHOD

Twenty-five healthy Wistar rats were divided into five groups randomly, 5 rats in each group, including normal group, Radix ex Rhizoma Ginseng and Fafces Trogopterori in the ratio of 1:1 group, 1:2 group, 2:1 group, and complex recipe of beetle capsule group. After the pharmacy liquor was decocted, equivalent dose for rat was calculated. According to the weights, all rats were intragastric administrated at the standard of 1 mL x 100 g(-1), twice a day, continuously for 3 days. One hour after the last administration, the serum was collected and mixed with culture media RPMI 1640 to prepare the drug serum incubation liquid at the concentration of 10%. MTT was used to measure the growth curve and the inhibition rate of tumor cell, and the apoptosis was observed by electron microscope.

RESULT

The compatibility of Radix ex Rhizoma Ginseng and Fafces Trogopterori could inhibit the cell proliferation of cell line A549 of lung adenocarcinoma and have an inducement on apoptosis. The effect was significant in the ratio of 2:1.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that inhibiting the proliferation and inducing the apoptosis of tumor cell may be one of the anticancer mechanism of the compatibility of Radix ex Rhizoma Ginseng and Fafces Trogopterori.

Methods of developing core collections based on the predicted genotypic value of rice ( Oryza sativa L.)

The selection of an appropriate sampling strategy and a clustering method is important in the construction of core collections based on predicted genotypic values in order to retain the greatest degree of genetic diversity of the initial collection. In this study, methods of developing rice core collections were evaluated based on the predicted genotypic values for 992 rice varieties with 13 quantitative traits. The genotypic values of the traits were predicted by the adjusted unbiased prediction (AUP) method. Based on the predicted genotypic values, Mahalanobis distances were calculated and employed to measure the genetic similarities among the rice varieties. Six hierarchical clustering methods, including the single linkage, median linkage, centroid, unweighted pair-group average, weighted pair-group average and flexible-beta methods, were combined with random, preferred and deviation sampling to develop 18 core collections of rice germplasm. The results show that the deviation sampling strategy in combination with the unweighted pair-group average method of hierarchical clustering retains the greatest degree of genetic diversities of the initial collection. The core collections sampled using predicted genotypic values had more genetic diversity than those based on phenotypic values.

Role of neuronal nitric oxide synthase in the macula densa

BACKGROUND

There is evidence that macula densa nitric oxide (NO) inhibits tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF). However, TGF response is not altered in mice deficient in neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) (-/-). Furthermore, nNOS expression in the macula densa is inversely related to salt intake, yet micropuncture studies have shown that NOS inhibition potentiates TGF in rats on high sodium intake but not in rats on a low-salt diet. These inconsistencies may be due to confounding systemic factors, such as changes in circulating renin. To further clarify the role of macula densa nNOS in TGF response, independent of systemic factors, we tested the hypothesis that (1) TGF response is inversely related to sodium intake, and (2) during low sodium intake, NO produced by macula densa nNOS tonically controls the basal diameter of the afferent arteriole (Af-Art).

METHODS

Af-Arts and attached macula densas were simultaneously microperfused in vitro. TGF response was determined by measuring Af-Art diameter before and after increasing NaCl in the macula densa perfusate. TGF response was studied in wild-type (+/+) and nNOS knockout mice (-/-), as well as in juxtaglomerular apparatuses (JGAs) from rabbits fed a low-, normal-, or high-NaCl diet.

RESULTS

TGF responses were similar in nNOS +/+ and -/- mice. However, in nNOS +/+ mice, 7-nitroindazole (7-NI) perfused into the macula densa significantly potentiated the TGF response (P = 0.001), while in nNOS -/- mice, this potentiation was absent. In rabbits on three different sodium diets, TGF responses were similar and were potentiated equally by 7-NI. However, in JGAs from rabbits on a low-NaCl diet, adding 7-NI to the macula densa while perfusing it with low-NaCl fluid caused Af-Art vasoconstriction, decreasing the diameter by 14% (from 21.7 +/- 1.3 to 18.6 +/- 1.5 microm; P < 0.001). This effect was not observed in JGAs from rabbits fed a normal- (19.0 +/- 0.5 vs. 19.3 +/- 0.8 microm after 7-NI) or high-NaCl diet (18.6 +/- 0.7 vs. 18.4 +/- 0.7 microm).

CONCLUSIONS

First, in this in vitro preparation, chronic changes in macula densa nNOS do not play a major role in the regulation of TGF. Compensatory mechanisms may develop during chronic alteration of nNOS that keep TGF relatively constant. Second, nNOS regulates TGF response acutely. Third, the results obtained in the +/+ and -/- mice also confirm that the effect of 7-NI is due to inhibition of macula densa nNOS. Finally, during low sodium intake (without induction of TGF), the regulation of basal Af-Art resistance by macula densa nNOS suggests that NO in the macula densa helps maintain renal blood flow during the high renin secretion caused by low sodium intake.

[Study on chemical constituents of Hemistepta lyrata Bunge]

AIM

To separate and identify the chemical constituents of the whole plant of Hemistepta lyrata Bunge.

METHODS

Compounds wese separated with chromatography and their chemical strucrures were elucidated with UV, IR, EIMS, FABMS, ESIMS, 1HNMR, 13CNMR HMQC and HMBC spectral methods.

RESULTS

Five compounds were isolated from the plant. They were identified as apigenin I, apigenin-7-O-beta-D-lutinoside II, acacetin-7-O-beta-D-lutinoside III, astragalin IV, hemislienoside V.

CONCLUSION

These compounds were isolated from this plant for the first time, and compound V is a new one.

[Studies on chemical constituents from Chinese medicinal plant Hemistepta lyrata Bunge]

OBJECTIVE

To separate and identify the chemical constituents of the whole plant.

METHOD

The compounds were extracted with solvents, isolated by column chromatography and identified by spectroscopic methods, such as IR, MS and 1H NMR.

RESULT

Five compounds were identified as hentriantane I, taraxasteryl acetate II, taraxasterol III, beta-sitosterol IV, and stigmasterol V.

CONCLUSION

The compounds III and V were obtained from the plant for the first time.

Comparison of solvent extraction and microwave extraction for release of dimethyl sulfide from cereals and canola

Natural levels of dimethyl sulfide (DMS) in newly harvested wheat, barley, paddy, and canola were determined by gas chromatography using a flame photometric detector in sulfur mode. The two methods involved determination of DMS in the headspace of cereal or oilseed samples (1) after extraction with microwaves and (2) after a traditional approach using 25% KBr solution. Quantitative results from each method were similar, and therefore both methods are suitable for the determination of DMS in grains and oilseeds. However, the microwave procedure has several advantages; for example, results are obtained very quickly, and only a small amount of sample is required.

Natural levels of dimethyl sulfide in rough rice and its products

Natural levels of dimethyl sulfide (DMS) in rough rice and its products (polished rice, brown rice, and broken rice) were determined by a gas chromatograph equipped with a flame photometric detector and sulfur mode, after extraction with 25% KBr solution in a sealed system. DMS was found to occur naturally in nine newly harvested and stored Australian varieties of rough rice and its products and decreased during storage after harvesting. Natural levels of DMS in rough rice and its products varied with variety, fraction, and period of storage. The order of levels of DMS was rough rice = brown rice > polished rice = broken rice. The range of values was 0.002-30 mg kg(-1) (ppm, w/w).

Role of macula densa nitric oxide and cGMP in the regulation of tubuloglomerular feedback

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have suggested that nitric oxide (NO) produced within cells of the macula densa (MD) modulates tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF). We tested the hypothesis that NO produced in the MD acts locally as an autacoid to activate soluble guanylate cyclase and cGMP-dependent protein kinase in the MD itself.

METHODS

Rabbit afferent arterioles (Af-Arts) and attached MD were simultaneously microperfused in vitro. The TGF response was determined by measuring the Af-Art diameter before and after increasing NaCl in the MD perfusate (from 17 mmol/L of Na and 2 of Cl to 65 mmol/L of Na and 50 of Cl). TGF was studied before (control TGF) and after inhibiting components of the NO-cGMP-dependent cascade in the tubular or vascular compartment.

RESULTS

Increasing NaCl concentration in the MD perfusate decreased the Af-Art diameter by 3.2 +/- 0.5 microm (from 18.5 +/- 1.3 to 15.4 +/- 1.3 microm, P < 0.001). Adding a soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor (LY83583) to the MD increased TGF response to 6.3 +/- 1.1 microm (P < 0.031 vs. control TGF). Similarly, when cGMP-dependent protein kinase was inhibited with KT5823, TGF was augmented from 2.6 +/- 0.3 to 4.0 +/- 0.7 microm (P < 0.023). An analogue of cGMP in the MD reversed the TGF-potentiating effect of both 7-nitroindazole (7NI; an nNOS inhibitor) and LY83583. Inhibition of MD guanylate cyclase did not alter the effect of acetylcholine (a NO-cGMP-dependent vasodilator) on the Af-Art. Perfusing the Af-Art with the guanylate cyclase inhibitor did not potentiate TGF, suggesting that the effect of NO occurred at the MD via a cGMP-dependent mechanism. To determine whether the effect of NO in the MD was entirely mediated by cGMP, TGF was studied after giving (1) LY83583 or (2) LY83583 plus 7NI. Adding the nNOS inhibitor to the MD did not potentiate the TGF response further.

CONCLUSIONS

We concluded the following: (1) NO produced by the MD inhibits TGF via stimulation of soluble guanylate cyclase, generating cGMP and activating cGMP-dependent protein kinase; (2) NO acts on the MD itself rather than by diffusing to the Af-Art; and (3) most, if not all, of the effect of NO in the MD is due to a cGMP-dependent mechanism rather than to other NO mediators.

Fate of (14)C-labeled carbonyl sulfide on grains and grain fractions

14C-Labeled carbonyl sulfide (COS) was used to measure the amount of sorbed fumigant and alteration products on grains. Wheat, paddy rice, polished rice, mungbean, and safflower were exposed to a 60 mg L(-)(1) of (14)COS for 7 days and then aired for 5 days. Carbonyl sulfide and/or alteration products in sugars, protein, starch, amino acids, protopectines, and hemicelluloses were undetectable. The total uptakes of radioactivity determined after fractionation and also by extraction were in the range of 36-53 ng g(-)(1) COS equiv. The total radioactivity determined by autoradiography was below the detection limit of 70 ng g(-)(1) COS equiv. Radioactivity in the commodities was less than 0.003% of all the radioactivity applied. The amount of retained radiolabel was measured in three ways. First, biochemical fractions such as lipids and amino acids were separated by chromatography, and the activity was determined in each component. Second, commodities were crushed and extracted in aqueous acetone until the maximum amount of radiolabel was extracted. Third, autoradiography was carried out on commodity kernels.

Enzyme kinetics and inhibition of nimodipine metabolism in human liver microsomes

AIM

To study the enzyme kinetics of nimodipine (NDP) metabolism and the effects of selective cytochrome P-450 (CYP-450) inhibitors on the metabolism of NDP in human liver microsomes in vitro.

METHODS

Microsomes from six individual human liver specimens were used to perform enzyme kinetic studies and the kinetic parameters were estimated by Eadie-Hofstee equation. Various selective CYP-450 inhibitors were used to investigate their effects on the metabolism of NDP and the principal CYP-450 isoform involved in dehydrogenation of dihydropyridine ring of NDP in human liver microsomes.

RESULTS

There was an important intersubject variability in NDP metabolism in human liver microsomes. For NDP dehydrogenase activity, the Km value was (36 +/- 11) mumol and the Vm value was (17 +/- 7) mumol.g-1.min-1. The dehydrogenation of dihydropyridine ring of NDP was competitively inhibited by ketoconazole (Ket) and troleandomycin (TAO), and the Ki values for Ket and TAO were 0.59 and 122.2 mumol, respectively. Phenacetin (Pnt), quinidine (Qui), diethyldithiocarbamate (DDC), sulfaphenazole (Sul), and tranylcypromine (Tra) had a little or no inhibitory effects on the dehydrogenation of NDP.

CONCLUSION

The intersubject variability of NDP pharmacokinetics was attributed to the metabolic polymorphism of NDP in liver. Cytochrome P-4503A (CYP3A) is involved in the dehydrogenation of dihydropyridine ring of NDP.

Release of fumigant residues from grain by microwave irradiation

Multiresidue analysis of fumigants is important because of their widespread use on staple foodstuffs, such as grain. Fumigants are usually extracted from grain either by solvent extraction or by purge-and-trap techniques. In this paper, fumigant residues in wheat were "extracted" by a microwave procedure. Wheat, in gas-tight Erlenmeyer flasks, was placed in a domestic microwave oven, and fumigants were released into the headspace by microwave irradiation. Power settings for maximum release of fumigants were determined for CH3Br, PH3, CS2, and COS. Recoveries of fortified samples were > 90%. Completeness of extraction was assessed from the amount of fumigant retained by the microwave-irradiated wheat. This amount, determined from both solvent extraction and from further microwave irradiation, was always small (< 5% of the amount obtained from the initial procedure). Limits of quantitation were < 1 ng/g for CH3Br, PH3, and CS2. These low limits were essentially due to the absence of interference from solvents. The microwave method is rapid and solvent-free. However, care is required in selecting the appropriate power setting. The safety implications of heating sealed flasks in microwave ovens should be noted.