Development of a clinical prediction model for diabetic kidney disease with glucose and lipid metabolism disorders based on machine learning and bioinformatics technology

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we investigated the internal relationship between the pathogenesis of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism to identify potential biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment and investigated the role of the immune microenvironment of glucose and lipid metabolism disorders in the occurrence and progression of DKD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The chip datasets GSE104948 and GSE96804 from the Gene Expression Common Database (GEO) were merged using the "lima" and "sva" software packages in R Software (4.2.3), and the merged dataset was used as the validation set. The intersection between the differential genes of DKD and the glucose and lipid metabolism genes in the MSigDB database was identified, and a nomogram of the incidence risk of DKD was built using three machine learning methods, namely LASSO regression, support vector machine (SVM), and random forest (RF), to validate the accuracy of the prediction model. Immune scores were conducted using the unsupervised clustering method, and patients were divided into two subgroups. The two subgroups were screened for differential genes for enrichment analysis. The differential genes of patients diagnosed with DKD were clustered into two gene subgroups for co-expression analysis. In this study, we utilized the Cytoscape software to construct a network of interactions among key genes.

RESULTS

Using machine learning, a diagnostic model was developed with G6PC and HSD17B14 as key factors. Enrichment analysis and immune scoring demonstrated that the development of DKD was related to the imbalance in the microenvironment brought about by glucose lipid metabolism disorders.

CONCLUSIONS

G6PC and HSD17B14 may be potential biomarkers for DKD, and the established predictive model is more helpful in predicting the incidence of DKD.

De-escalated radiotherapy for HER2-overexpressing breast cancer patients with 1-3 positive lymph nodes undergoing anti-HER2 targeted therapy

Background

In the era of anti-HER2 targeted therapy, the potential clinical feasibility of considering HER2-overexpressing breast cancer cases presenting with 1-3 positive axillary lymph nodes as low-risk, and thereby contemplating postoperative radiotherapy reduction, remains an important subject for in-depth examination. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the effectiveness of de-escalated radiotherapy in T1-2N1M0 HER2-overexpressing breast cancer patients receiving anti-HER2 targeted therapy. Specifically, omitting regional lymph node irradiation (RNI) after breast-conserving surgery and only performing whole-breast irradiation or omitting postmastectomy radiation therapy.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 429 patients with stage T1-2N1M0 primary invasive HER2-overexpressing breast cancer from our center between 2004 and 2018. Patients who received anti-HER2 targeted therapy were divided into an RNI group and a no RNI group to assess the role of RNI. The prognostic role of RNI was investigated via the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazards modeling.

Results

The median follow-up time was 46.8 months (range 7.1-225.8 months). In the anti-HER2 targeted therapy group RNI yielded no significant improvements in invasive disease-free survival (IDFS) (p = 0.940), local-regional recurrence-free survival (p = 0.380), distant metastases-free survival (p = 0.698), or overall survival (p = 0.403). Estrogen receptor (ER) status (hazard ratio [HR] 0.105, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.023-0.749, p = 0.004) and lymph vascular invasion status (LVI) (HR 5.721, 95% CI 1.586-20.633, p = 0.008) were identified as independent prognostic factors for IDFS, and ER-positive and LVI-negative patients exhibited better prognoses.

Conclusion

Omitting RNI may be a safe option in T1-2N1 HER2-overexpressing breast cancer patients receiving standardized anti-HER2 targeted therapy; particularly in ER-positive or LVI-negative subgroups.

H3K27 acetylation activated long noncoding RNA RP11-162G10.5 promotes breast cancer progression via the YBX1/GLO1 axis

PURPOSE

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) orchestrate critical roles in human tumorigenesis. However, the regulatory mechanism of lncRNAs in tissue-specific expressions in breast cancer (BC) remains poorly understood. This study aims to investigate lncRNA role and mechanisms in BC.

METHODS

RNA sequencing was used to explore differentially expressed lncRNAs in BC and adjacent tissues. H3K27 acetylation (H3K27ac) chromatin immune-precipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) data of BC cells from the GEO dataset (GSE85158) was retrieved to identify the H3K27ac activated lncRNAs that were involved in tumorigenesis. RP11-162G10.5 was selected as the target lncRNA for further functional and mechanism study.

RESULTS

In this study, we identified a novel lncRNA RP11-162G10.5, whose overexpression was specifically driven by H3K27ac in luminal breast cancer. And increased RP11-162G10.5 in BC is correlated with poor patient outcomes. RP11-162G10.5 promotes tumor cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, RP11-162G10.5 recruits transcriptional factor YBX1 to the GLO1 promoter, consequently activating GLO1 transcription to modulate the progression of BC.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that the histone modification-activated lncRNA contributes to the oncogenesis of BC. Also, our data reveal a role for RP11-162G10.5 in BC tumorigenesis and may supply a strategy for targeting the RP11-162G10.5 as a potential biomarker and a therapeutic target for breast cancer patients.

LncRNA Uc003xsl.1-Mediated Activation of the NFκB/IL8 Axis Promotes Progression of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Aberrant activation of NFκB orchestrates a critical role in tumor carcinogenesis; however, the regulatory mechanisms underlying this activation are not fully understood. Here we report that a novel long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) Uc003xsl.1 is highly expressed in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and correlates with poor outcomes in patients with TNBC. Uc003xsl.1 directly bound nuclear transcriptional factor NFκB-repressing factor (NKRF), subsequently preventing NKRF from binding to a specific negative regulatory element in the promoter of the NFκB-responsive gene IL8 and abolishing the negative regulation of NKRF on NFκB-mediated transcription of IL8. Activation of the NFκB/IL8 axis promoted the progression of TNBC. Trop2-based antibody-drug conjugates have been applied in clinical trials in TNBC. In this study, a Trop2-targeting, redox-responsive nanoparticle was developed to systematically deliver Uc003xsl.1 siRNA to TNBC cells in vivo, which reduced Uc003xsl.1 expression and suppressed TNBC tumor growth and metastasis. Therefore, targeting Uc003xsl.1 to suppress the NFκB/IL8 axis represents a promising therapeutic strategy for TNBC treatment.

SIGNIFICANCE

These findings identify an epigenetic-driven NFκB/IL8 cascade initiated by a lncRNA, whose aberrant activation contributes to tumor metastasis and poor survival in patients with triple-negative breast cancer.

Vitamin A with L-ascorbic acid sodium salt improves the growth performance, immune function and antioxidant capacity of weaned pigs

Vitamin A is easily degraded by environmental factors. Therefore, it is very important to add antioxidants during Vitamin A production. In the past, ethoxyquin (EQ) was widely used, but recent studies have found that it has potential toxicity. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated the antioxidant activities of 4 antioxidants in vitro: EQ, butylated hydroxytoluene, α-tocopherol and L-ascorbic acid sodium salt (Vitamin C sodium). In vitro experiments showed that Vitamin C sodium had better antioxidant capacity. Then, we explored the effects of different antioxidant types of Vitamin A on the growth performance, immune function and antioxidant capacity of weaned pigs. In total, 288 weaned piglets with an initial mean BW of 8.34 ± 0.02 kg at 30 days old were randomly divided into three groups with four replicates and 24 piglets per replicate for 35 days of feeding. The experimental diets were as follows: i) basal diet without external Vitamin A (NC); ii) basal diet supplemented with 12000 IU/kg EQ Vitamin A and iii) basal diet supplemented with 12000 IU/kg Vitamin C sodium Vitamin A. On day 36, two pigs from each replicate were selected to collect serum samples. The in vivo results showed that pigs in the EQ Vitamin A and Vitamin C sodium Vitamin A groups had significantly higher final weight and average daily gain (P < 0.05). During the trial, the levels of IgG and glutathione peroxidase in the EQ Vitamin A and Vitamin C sodium Vitamin A groups were significantly higher than those in the NC group (P < 0.05), and the malondialdehyde content was significantly lower (P < 0.05). On the 36th day, the levels of IgA and total antioxidant capacity in the Vitamin C sodium Vitamin A group were significantly higher than those in the EQ Vitamin A and NC (P < 0.05) groups. Thus, Vitamin C sodium Vitamin A can significantly improve the growth performance, antioxidant capacity and immune function of weaned pigs. Meanwhile, Vitamin C sodium may replace EQ as an antioxidant additive for Vitamin A.

Brachytherapy-based radiotherapy is associated with improved survival for newly diagnosed metastatic cervical cancer

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to explore the value of brachytherapy (BT) in metastatic cervical cancer, as it has not been well evaluated before.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

We analyzed 2391 patients with Stage IVB cervical cancer from 2004 to 2015 by using data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registry. The parameters were analyzed by Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards regression models to evaluate cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival.

RESULTS

In general, both univariate and multivariate analysis showed that age, histologic type, tumor size, and chemotherapy were associated with CSS and overall survival (p < 0.05). Further subgroup analysis showed BT alone or BT combined with external beam radiotherapy improved CSS despite the tumor size. In addition, chemotherapy and chemoradiotherapy prolonged CSS compared with external beam radiotherapy alone or no chemotherapy or radiotherapy independently of tumor size (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

For newly diagnosed metastatic cervical cancers, BT with or without external beam radiotherapy is associated with improved survival. As an aggressive option, chemoradiotherapy is also a potential treatment strategy.

Chicory fibre improves reproductive performance of pregnant rats involving in altering intestinal microbiota composition

AIM

Chicory fibre (CF) is rich in fructan, which always functions as a quality dietary fibre source during mammalian pregnancy; however, its effect on reproductive performance remains unclear.

METHODS AND RESULTS

40 pregnant SD rats were randomly allotted to receive one of four diets: basal diet (control group), basal diet + 5% CF, basal diet + 10% CF, and basal diet + 15% CF, respectively. We found that CF significantly increased the number born alive and total litter birth weight (P < 0·05), increased the expression of intestinal tight junction proteins, mucins and antimicrobial peptides, accompanied by the increase of villi height and the decrease of crypts depth of pregnant SD rats (P < 0·05). We also observed that CF markedly increased the acetic acid, propanoic acid, butyric acid and total SCFAs concentrations in caecum contents and promoted the expression of SCFAs-related receptors (P < 0·05). Notably, rats fed CF increased the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes (P < 0·001), decreased the relative abundance of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria, while markedly lowered the Firmicutes/ Bacteroidetes ratio (F/B ratio) (P < 0·05). Intriguingly, the number born alive and total litter birth weight were positively correlated with some probiotics and negatively correlated with other harmful bacteria by Pearson correlation analysis.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, CF can enhance intestinal barrier function and maintain intestinal health, and may improve reproductive performance by altering intestinal microbiota composition.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Adding suitable dietary fibre to the diet can improve the reproductive performance of sows. Indeed, there exist various problems in the application of traditional dietary fibres, including high insoluble fibre content and anti-nutritional factor level, and mycotoxin contamination. This study demonstrates that dietary CF supplementation improves reproductive performance and intestinal health. Thus, CF can be applied in pregnancy animals as a new dietary fibre additive in animal husbandry.

Development and validation of a nomogram in survival prediction among advanced breast cancer patients

Background

The overall survival (OS) among patients with advanced breast cancer (ABC) varies greatly. Although molecular subtype is known as the most important factor in OS differentiation, significant differences in OS among patients with the same molecular subtype still occur, leading to the need for a more accurate prognostic prediction model. This study aimed to develop a prediction model (nomogram) based on current diagnosis and treatment to predict the OS of newly diagnosed ABC patients in China.

Methods

From the institution’s database, we collected data of 368 ABC patients from Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital (national hospital) as a training set to establish a nomogram with prognostic risk factors that calculated the predicted probability of survival. Nomograms were independently validated with 278 patients with ABC from two other institutions using the concordance index (C-index), calibration plots and risk group stratifications.

Results

The initial primary tumor stage, molecular subtype, disease-free survival (DFS), presence of brain metastasis, and the tumor burden of metastasis disease (local recurrence, oligo-metastatic disease, or multiple-metastatic disease) were included in the prognostic nomogram. The nomogram had a C-index of 0.77 and 0.71 in the training and the validation sets, respectively. The nomogram was able to stratify patients into different risk groups, respectively (HR 6.81, 95% CI: 4.69 to 9.89, P<0.001). In the lower risk score group (risk score <11), there was no significant difference between the OS with chemotherapy and hormone therapy (HR 0.81, 95% CI: 0.44 to 1.47, P=0.48).

Conclusions

We have constructed a novel prediction nomogram that can guide the physicians to select personalized treatment options. Furthermore, our study is the first to add oligo-metastatic disease and primary endocrine/trastuzumab resistance into the prognostic models.

Nanoparticles (NPs)-Meditated LncRNA AFAP1-AS1 Silencing to Block Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway for Synergistic Reversal of Radioresistance and Effective Cancer Radiotherapy

Resistance to radiotherapy is frequently encountered in clinic, leading to poor prognosis of cancer patients. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in the development of radioresistance due to their functions in regulating the expression of target genes at both transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels. Exploring key lncRNAs and elucidating the mechanisms contributing to radioresistance are crucial for the development of effective strategies to reverse radioresistance, which however remains challenging. Here, actin filament-associated protein 1 antisense RNA1 (lncAFAP1-AS1) is identified as a key factor in inducing radioresistance of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) via activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Considering the generation of a high concentration of reduction agent glutathione (GSH) under radiation, a reduction-responsive nanoparticle (NP) platform is engineered for effective lncAFAP1-AS1 siRNA (siAFAP1-AS1) delivery. Systemic delivery of siAFAP1-AS1 with the reduction-responsive NPs can synergistically reverse radioresistance by silencing lncAFAP1-AS1 expression and scavenging intracellular GSH, leading to a dramatically enhanced radiotherapy effect in both xenograft and metastatic TNBC tumor models. The findings indicate that lncAFAP1-AS1 can be used to predict the outcome of TNBC radiotherapy and combination of systemic siAFAP1-AS1 delivery with radiotherapy can be applied for the treatment of recurrent TNBC patients.

Long Non-Coding RNA MNX1-AS1 Promotes Progression of Triple Negative Breast Cancer by Enhancing Phosphorylation of Stat3

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for less than a quarter of breast cancer but has the poorest survival outcome and is prone to relapse as well as metastasis due to its aggressiveness and lack of therapeutic target. Herein, we analyzed the TCGA datasets of lncRNA expressional profiles of breast cancer vs. normal tissue and TNBC vs. Non-TNBC subtypes and screened a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) MNX1-AS1 overexpressing in TNBC. We found that MNX1-AS1 were upregulated in TNBC tumor tissues and correlated with poor survival outcome in TNBC patients. Silencing MNX1-AS1 reduced the aggressiveness of TNBC in vitro and in vivo. By using RNA pulldown assay followed by western blotting and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), we identified Stat3 was the MNX1-AS1 binding protein and MNX1-AS1 upregulated the phosphorylation of Stat3 by enhancing the interaction between p-JAK and Stat3. The present study suggested that targeting MNX1-AS1 may represent a promising therapeutic strategy to TNBC.

TSPAN8 serves as a prognostic marker involving Akt/MAPK pathway in nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Background

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a common epithelial carcinoma with high occurrence and metastatic rates in Southern China. To date, the molecular mechanisms of metastasis for NPC remains unclear. The aim of this study was to discover the underlying mechanism of NPC and to elucidate novel genes that may play important roles in NPC progression and metastasis.

Methods

We carry out mRNA expression profiling, Arraystar Human mRNA Expression Profiling Service Report based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using four pairs of tumor tissues and their corresponding benign adjacent tissues from NPC patients.

Results

We found that 1,787 genes were differentially expressed, among them, 8 genes were identified as highly upregulated in NPC patients. Within these 8 genes, only TSPAN8 was consistently over-expressed in poorly differentiated CNE2 cell line and highly-metastatic subclone S18 cell line. TSPAN8 mRNA and protein levels were increased in primary carcinoma tissues compared to their corresponding adjacent benign tissues. Knockdown of TSPAN8 by siRNA resulted in inhibition of NPC cell migration and invasion, while overexpression of TSPAN8 promoted NPC cell migration, invasion and proliferation. To explore the potential metastasis pathway mechanism for NPC, TSPAN8 were silenced in CNE2 cell. From the Tumor Metastasis Pathway Finder PCR array, knockdown of TSPAN8 led to the down-regulation of IL-1β, which showed the most down-regulation among identified genes. IL-1β is a regulating factor of the Akt/MAPK pathway, which is involved in the cancer cell migration regulation. Furthermore, the down-regulation of TSPAN8 in CNE2 cell was associated with inhibition of the Akt/MAPK pathway. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) indicated that TSPAN8 level was increased in NPC tumors, which was associated with shorter overall survival and metastasis free survival (MFS).

Conclusions

The data indicated that TSPAN8 acting as a tumor migration marker and may be a prognostic factor or therapeutic target for NPC.

Adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy for patients with breast phyllodes tumors: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

As the efficacy of radiotherapy and chemotherapy for treatment of phyllodes tumors (PTs) remains unclear, this study aimed to review all available data and evaluate the roles of radiotherapy and chemotherapy in PT treatment.

Methods

We performed a comprehensive search of databases, including PubMed, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library. The outcomes of interest included the local recurrence (LR) rate, metastasis rate, disease-free survival rate and overall survival rate.

Results

Seventeen studies enrolling 696 patients were included in this random effect meta-analysis. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression were also conducted to determine study heterogeneity. A pooled local recurrence rate of 8% (95% CI: 1–22%) was observed with a statistical heterogeneity of I² = 86.6% (p < 0.01) for radiotherapy. This was lower than the recurrence rate of 12% for simple surgical treatment (95% CI: 7–18%). Meta-regression analysis found that surgical margin status was the main source of heterogeneity (p = 0.04). The metastasis rate of 4% (95% CI: 0–11%) for patients receiving radiotherapy without significant heterogeneity was also lower than the rate for the simple surgery group (8, 95% CI: 3–15%). The available data for chemotherapy were too limited to support meta-analysis. Accordingly, we offer a pure review of these data.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that radiotherapy is effective in achieving local disease control and preventing metastasis.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12885-019-5585-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Direct manipulation of metallic nanosheets by shear force microscopy

Micro/nanomanipulation is a rapidly growing technology and holds promising applications in various fields, including photonic/electronic devices, chemical/biosensors etc. In this work, we present that shear force microscopy (ShFM) can be exploited to manipulate metallic nanosheets besides imaging. The manipulation is realized via controlling the shear force sensor probe position and shear force magnitude based on our homemade ShFM system under an optical microscopy for in situ observation. The main feature of the ShFM system is usage of a piezoelectric bimorph sensor, which has the ability of self-excitation and detection. Moreover, the shear force magnitude as a function of the spring constant of the sensor and setpoint is obtained, which indicates that operation modes can be switched between imaging and manipulation through designing the spring constant before experiment and changing the setpoint during manipulation process, respectively. We believe that this alternative manipulation technique could be used to assemble other nanostructures with different shapes, sizes and compositions for new properties and wider applications.

Identical genotypes of community-associated MRSA (ST59) and livestock-associated MRSA (ST9) in humans and pigs in rural China

This study investigated the prevalence of MRSA in samples taken in households, with and without backyard pigs in villages in a rural area of Shandong Province, China. Community-associated MRSA and livestock-associated MRSA, belonging to ST59 and ST9, respectively, were identified in both humans and pigs. The genotypic and phenotypic comparison of isolates indicates that bidirectional transmission of MRSA has occurred between humans and pigs in the villages.

Linc00511 acts as a competing endogenous RNA to regulate VEGFA expression through sponging hsa-miR-29b-3p in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal malignancy. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are important regulators in pathological processes, yet their potential roles in PDAC are poorly understood. Here, we identify a fundamental role for a novel lincRNA, linc00511, in the progression of PDAC. Linc00511 levels in PDAC tissue specimens and cell lines were examined by quantitative real-time PCR. Corresponding adjacent non-neoplastic tissues were used as controls. The function of linc00511 in PDAC cell lines was determined by RNA interference approach in vitro and in vivo. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was used to characterize linc00511 expression in PDAC cells. Insights of the mechanism of competitive endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) were obtained from bioinformatic analysis, luciferase assays and RIP assays. The association between the linc00511/hsa-miR29b-3p axis and VEGFA was verified by Western blotting assay. Immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate the expression of VEGFA in PDAC samples. The aberrant up-regulation of linc00511 was detected in PDAC cell lines and patient specimens compared with controls. An increase in linc00511 expression indicates the adverse clinical pathological characteristics and poor prognosis. Functionally, linc00511 depletion in PDAC cells decreased proliferation, migration, invasion and endothelial tube formation. Mechanistically, linc00511 could up-regulate VEGFA via its competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) activity on hsa-miR-29b-3p. In summary, our results define an important axis controlling proliferation, invasion and tumour angiogenesis in PDAC. Linc00511 is a novel lncRNA that plays a significant regulatory role in the pathogenesis and progression of PDAC. Thus, Linc00511 represents a new prognostic biomarker to predict clinical outcome of PDAC patients after surgery and may serve as a potential therapeutic target for PDAC treatment.

Enterprise Diagnostics for Evaluation of Enterprise Business Processes

In a dynamic business environment, the performance of enterprise has to be evaluated promptly to adjust business activities and accommodate new changes adequately. To this end, we propose the concept of enterprise diagnostics, which focuses on the assessment of effectiveness of enterprise business processes. In apply enterprise diagnostics, the procedure and methodology have been developed to evaluate the performance of enterprise business processes, and main factors for the assessment include consumed resources, cost, durations of business processes, and information constraints. The proposed methodology has its theoretical and practical values in evaluating the performance of enterprise and assisting in making management decisions with a high level of accountability.

Gemcitabine Compared With Gemcitabine and S-1 Combination Therapy in Advanced Pancreatic Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Several reports suggest that gemcitabine (GEM) plus S-1 combination (GS) is associated to prolong the survival in patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer (PC). We conducted a systemic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing the safety and efficacy of GS versus GEM.Summary data from randomized trials and retrospective studies were searched in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. Statistical analyses were conducted to calculate the hazard ratios (HRs) and relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using random-effects models. Subgroup analyses based on the chemotherapy cycles were performed to explore the efficacy and toxicity for therapy. Sensitivity analyses were conducted by removing specific studies to assess the effects of study quality.Between January 2004 and August 2012, 4 RCTs and 2 retrospective studies including a total of 1025 cases were identified. The overall survival (OS) (HR: 0.82; 95% CI, 0.70-0.96; P = 0.01) and progression-free survival (PFS) (HR: 0.65; 95% CI, 0.55-0.77; P < 0.001) for the GS arm were significantly longer than the GEM arm. The differences in objective response rate (ORR) (RR: 1.24; 95% CI, 1.17-1.33; P < 0.001) and disease control rate (DCR) were also better in the GS arm (RR: 1.37; 95% CI, 1.19-1.59; P < 0.001). Grades 3 to 4 toxicities in both the groups were similar except neutropenia and diarrhea, which were more frequent in the GS arm (P < 0.001). In the subgroup analysis, the cycle for chemotherapy every 4 weeks has equivalent efficacy and less toxicity than regimens every 3 weeks in the GS arm.The current meta-analysis suggested that GEM significantly prolonged OS and PFS when added to S-1 combination in patients with unresectable PC. GS therapy also offers better ORR and DCR than GEM monotherapy and no unexpected toxicity was evident.

Synthetic magnetoelectric coupling in a nanocomposite multiferroic

Given the paucity of single phase multiferroic materials (with large ferromagnetic moment), composite systems seem an attractive solution to realize magnetoelectric coupling between ferromagnetic and ferroelectric order parameters. Despite having antiferromagnetic order, BiFeO₃ (BFO) has nevertheless been a key material due to excellent ferroelectric properties at room temperature. We studied a superlattice composed of 8 repetitions of 6 unit cells of La_0.7Sr_0.3MnO₃ (LSMO) grown on 5 unit cells of BFO. Significant net uncompensated magnetization in BFO, an insulating superlattice, is demonstrated using polarized neutron reflectometry. Remarkably, the magnetization enables magnetic field to change the dielectric properties of the superlattice, which we cite as an example of synthetic magnetoelectric coupling. Importantly, controlled creation of magnetic moment in BFO is a much needed path toward design and implementation of integrated oxide devices for next generation magnetoelectric data storage platforms.

[Radiotherapy concomitant with first-generation epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors in the treatment of brain metastases from non small cell lung cancer: a meta-analysis]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) or/and stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) concomitant with first-generation epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI), like erlotinib and gefitinib, in the treatment of brain metastases from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODS

Comprehensive searches were performed in different databases, including EMBASE, MEDLINE and Cochrane Library, etc. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized controlled trials (non-RCTs) comparing radiotherapy (RT) plus TKI with RT alone in the treatment of brain metastases from NSCLC were included for meta-analysis with Cochrane Collaboration's RevMan5. 2 software. The primary end-points were objective remission (OR), disease control (DC) and toxicity while the secondary end-point was overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

Three RCTs and one non-randomized controlled trial were selected and included for final analysis. The RT + TKI group had significant improvements in OR rate (RR = 1. 80, P <0. 01) and DC rate (RR = 1. 31, P <0. 01). Meanwhile, rash (RR = 14. 36, P = 0. 003) and diarrhea (RR = 3. 49, P = 0. 005) increased in the RT + TKI group. Yet there was no significant difference in nausea or vomiting (P = 0. 20).

CONCLUSION

For NSCLC with brain metastases, RT plus TKI could improve OR, DC and OS, but there was a higher incidence of rash and diarrhea. There fore future high-quality and prospective RCTs are warranted to confirm the clinical efficacy of RT plus TKI in the treatment of NSCLC with brain metastases.

Distinct prognostic values of ALDH1 isoenzymes in breast cancer

Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1), also known as aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 family, is composed of six enzymes that are expressed at high levels in stem cells and are involved in the regulation of stem cell function. Increased ALDH1 activity has been found in the stem cell populations of leukemia and some solid tumors including breast cancer (BC). However, which ALDH1's isoenzymes are contributing to ALDH1 activity has not been determined. In addition, the prognostic value of individual ALDH1 isoenzyme is not clear. In the current study, we investigated the prognostic value of ALDH1 isoenzymes in BC patients through "the Kaplan-Meier plotter" (KM plotter) database, in which updated gene expression data and survival information are from a total of 3455 BC patients. ALDH1A1 messenger RNA (mRNA) high expression was found to be correlated to worsen overall survival (OS) for all BC patients. ALDH1A2 and ALDH1L1 mRNA high expressions were found to be correlated to better OS for all BC patients. Both of ALDH1A3 and ALDH1B1 mRNA high expressions were not found to be correlated to OS for all BC patients. These results strongly support that ALDH1A1 was only a biomarker for predicting poor survival of BC patients among ALDH1 isoenzymes. ALDH1A1 might be a major contributor of ALDH1 activity in BC, since only ALDH1A1 mRNA high expression was found to be significantly correlated to worsen OS for all BC patients.

Induced magnetization in La0.7Sr0.3MnO3/BiFeO3 superlattices

Using polarized neutron reflectometry, we observe an induced magnetization of 75 ± 25 kA/m at 10 K in a La(0.7)Sr(0.3)MnO(3) (LSMO)/BiFeO(3) superlattice extending from the interface through several atomic layers of the BiFeO(3) (BFO). The induced magnetization in BFO is explained by density functional theory, where the size of band gap of BFO plays an important role. Considering a classical exchange field between the LSMO and BFO layers, we further show that magnetization is expected to extend throughout the BFO, which provides a theoretical explanation for the results of the neutron scattering experiment.

Method for controlling energy density for reliable pulsed laser deposition of thin films

We have established a methodology to stabilize the laser energy density on a target surface in pulsed laser deposition of thin films. To control the focused laser spot on a target, we have imaged a defined aperture in the beamline (so called image-focus) instead of focusing the beam on a target based on a simple "lens-focus." To control the laser energy density on a target, we have introduced a continuously variable attenuator between the output of the laser and the imaged aperture to manipulate the energy to a desired level by running the laser in a "constant voltage" mode to eliminate changes in the lasers' beam dimensions. This methodology leads to much better controllability/reproducibility for reliable pulsed laser deposition of high performance electronic thin films.

Condom use, intervention service utilization and HIV knowledge among female sex workers in China: results of three consecutive cross-sectional surveys in Shandong Province with historically low HIV prevalence

Heterosexual transmission of HIV through contact with female sex workers (FSWs) is a growing concern for the HIV/AIDS epidemic in China. Using consecutive cross-sectional surveys, we examined the prevalence of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), risk behaviours, HIV knowledge and the utilization of intervention services among FSWs in Shandong Province. Of 3460 participants, half reported ever having STI-related symptoms, 57.8% had ≥7 clients in the last week, half reported inconsistent use of condoms with clients and 11.2% reported ever using illicit drugs. Consistent use of condoms with clients was associated with higher education, being 20-24 years of age, being recruited from hotels, having ever received free condoms and was inversely associated with STI-related symptoms. HIV-related knowledge was associated with higher education, ever testing for HIV and inversely associated with self-reported STI-related symptoms. The low rates of condom use, high number and frequent turnover of clients, high prevalence of self-reported STIs and drug use highlight the urgency for more effective intervention in these FSWs.

[A clinic analysis of 62 male patients with lupus nephritis]

To study the difference between male and female patients with lupus nephritis(LN), we made a retrospective analysis. The clinical characteristics of 62 male patients with LN were compared with 62 female patients with LN. The result indicated the distribution of LN onset ages was different between male and female patients with LN. The incidence of LN was higher in the male than in female patients with SLE. Male patients were often misdiagnosed or diagnosed long after the onset of the disease. Arthritis and positive rate of ANA were less commonly occurred in female patients with LN. Other clinical and pathologic features of LN were similar in male and female patients. The response to treatment and prognosis of male patients with LN was relatively poor. So male patients with LN should be paid more attention to.

Development of an enzyme-labeled oligonucleotide probe for detecting the Escherichia coli attaching and effacing A gene

Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) and enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) can produce attaching and effacing (AE) lesions on intestinal epithelium in vitro and in vivo. A gene necessary to cause the AE lesion has been identified and designated Escherichia coli attaching and effacing A (eaeA) gene. In this study, an alkaline phosphatase (ALP)-conjugated oligonucleotide probe for the eaeA gene was developed and used to detect the eaeA gene among 163 strains of classical EPEC and 25 strains of EHEC O157. The prevalence rates of eaeA gene in the strains of classical EPEC and EHEC O157 were 51.5 and 100%, respectively. The eaeA-positive rate (60.0%) in strains of class I EPEC serogroups (O26, O55, O86, O111, O119, O125, O126, O127, O128ab, and O142) was significantly higher than that (22.9%) in strains of the class II EPEC serogroups (O18, O44, O114) (P<0.01). A total of 109 eaeA-positive classical EPEC and EHEC O157 were positive for fluorescent actin staining (FAS) assay, whereas 79 eaeA-negative classical EPEC were negative. Both the sensitivity and specificity of the eaeA probe versus the FAS assay positivity were 100%. Thus, use of the ALP-conjugated oligonucleotide probe for the eaeA gene would be specific and reliable in identifying the adherence capability of EPEC and EHEC.

Spectral fitting of NMR spectra using an alternating optimization method with a priori knowledge

As alternatives to the fast Fourier transform, advanced parametric methods based on the damped sinusoidal data model have been devised to better quantify the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy time-domain data. Previously, linear prediction (LP) fitting methods using Householder triangularization and singular value decomposition (SVD) techniques have been applied to the NMR spectroscopy data analysis. In this paper, we propose an alternating optimization method to quantify the time-domain NMR spectroscopy data. The proposed algorithm uses the a priori knowledge of the possible frequency intervals of the damped sinusoids to obtain more accurate parameter estimates when the NMR spectroscopy data are obtained under low signal-to-noise ratio conditions and the peaks are close together. None of the LP and SVD type of methods can use such approximate a priori knowledge. We have shown with measured NMR spectroscopy data that the proposed algorithm can be used to obtain accurate parameter estimates of frequencies, amplitudes, and damping ratios of the damped sinusoids and therefore the ultimate fit of the spectrum by using the a priori knowledge about the possible frequency intervals of the damped sinusoids.

Wettability, Oil Recovery, and Interfacial Tension with an SDBS-Dodecane-Kaolin System

The wettability of kaolin with SDBS (sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate) aqueous solutions was measured by the Washburn equation expressed as contact angles. The contact angle changes for SDBS aqueous solutions on kaolin surface was studied. The interfacial tension between the SDBS solutions and n-dodecane was measured using both drop volume and spinning drop methods. Then the oil recovery of n-dodecane on the kaolin surface was tested. It was found that the minimum contact angle (the most hydrophilic condition) and the maximum oil recovery occurred near the critical micelle concentration (CMC) of SDBS while the interfacial tension between the SDBS solution and n-dodecane was far from ultra-low. Copyright 1999 Academic Press.

Isolation and identification of Mycoplasma genitalium from high risk populations of sexually transmitted diseases in China

OBJECTIVE

To investigate Mycoplasma genitalium (Mg) infection in high risk populations of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in China by means of culture, Mg-DNA detection, observation under an electron microscope (EM) and an atomic force microscope (AFM).

METHODS

227 urogenital specimens taken from both patients in clinics and high risk populations of STDs in Beijing, Nanjing and Shanghai areas were cultured in SP-4 medium for isolation of Mg. Suspicious positive strains were identified first by PCR technique which could amplify the special DNA fragments of Mg adhesion protein (Mg-Pa) and 16S-rRNA sequences. The morphologic features of Mg were observed under EM and AFM.

RESULTS

Eight strains were isolated from the 227 specimens, the total positive rate was 3.52%. The isolated strains met the criteria of growth and metabolic conditions required by Mg. Specific fragments of Mg-DNA (374 bp based on Mg-Pa and 402 bp on 16S-rRNA primers, respectively) could be amplified from both the isolates and the genital secretions. Under EM and AFM, Mg showed different shapes, including flask, pear, spindle and globe shape. The typical shape of Mg was flask or pear shape with projecting neck portion and broadened terminal structure under EM and with constrictive ring between the neck and body under AFM.

CONCLUSION

Mg infection exists in high risk populations of STDs in China. We highly suggest the use of AFM in dermatological study.

Effects of ultraviolet-irradiated urocanic acid on IL-10 secreted by T lymphocytes

OBJECTIVE

To further investigate the effects of ultraviolet (UV)-irradiated urocanic acid (UCA) on T lymphocytes, the effects of cis-UCA on T lymphocyte IL-10 secretion was studied.

METHODS

Four groups of normal lymphocytes were cultured in RPMI-1640 containing 15% fetal calf serum. Besides negative and phytohemagglutinin (PHA) positive control, the cis-UCA and trans-UCA groups were set. The number of lymphocytes was 1.5 x 10(6). PHA was 0.05 mg/ml in each group. Both cis-UCA and trans-UCA were detected by 1.00, 0.75, 0.50 and 0.20 mmol/L respective concentrations. IL-10 was detected by ELISA method after 48 hours' culture. IL-10 mRNA expression level was assayed by RT-PCR.

RESULTS

The results indicated cis-UCA could reduce IL-10 secreted by T lymphocytes much more than trans-UCA (t = 2.91, P < 0.05) could. It was also found that the concentrations of cis-UCA were negatively correlated with IL-10 levels (r = -0.99, tr = 9.23, P < 0.01). The IL-10 mRNA expression of T lymphoctytes was inhibited by cis-UCA.

CONCLUSION

Our investigations revealed that cis-UCA, a major UV receptor in the stratum comeum of epidermis, could inhibit T lymphoctes secreting IL-10 by suppressing IL-10 mRNA expression, finally affects the humoral immune response.

Binding of HMG-I(Y) elicits structural changes in a silencer of the human beta-globin gene

Proteins involved in repression of the human beta-globin gene may be useful in the treatment of sickle cell anemia, in conjunction with therapy to reactivate fetal globin genes. If there is a reciprocal elevation of gamma-globin expression upon repression, this approach could be useful in additional hemoglobinopathies. We previously showed that repression of the beta-globin gene appears to be mediated through two DNA sequences, silencers I and II, and identified a protein termed BP1 which binds to both silencer sequences. In this study, we cloned two cDNAs encoding proteins which bind to an oligonucleotide in silencer I containing a BP1 binding site. These cDNAs correspond to HMG-I and HMG-Y, isoforms regarded as architectural proteins. We demonstrate that binding of HMG-I(Y) to this oligonucleotide causes bending/flexure of the DNA. HMG-I(Y) also binds to a second oligonucleotide containing a BP1 binding site located in a negative control region upstream of the delta-globin gene, suggesting a role for HMG-I(Y) in repression of adult globin genes. Expression studies revealed that HMG-I(Y) is ubiquitously expressed in human tissues that do not express beta-globin, being present in 48 of 50 tissues and six hematopoietic cell lines examined. Furthermore, HMG-I(Y) expression is down-regulated during differentiation of primary erythroid cells. We present a model in which HMG-I(Y) alters DNA conformation to allow binding of repressor proteins, and in which the relative amount of HMG-I(Y) helps to determine the repressive state of the beta-globin gene.

[Research and production of air cleaner for traveller train carriage]

After the traveller train carriage is closed, the air pollution would be serious in the carriage. In order to control the air pollution, the air cleaning technology must be studied and the air cleaner for the carriage must be designed. The authors discussed. 1. Working out a technology scheme and main technology parameter for the air cleaner, and the structure design of the air cleaner. 2. Texting the function and performance of the air cleaner. 3. Investigating the effectiveness of the cleaner in same train sections. Thereby it will be confirmed that the air cleaner can improve the air environment in the carriage, and give convincingly security to the health of attendants and travellers.

[Fluorescence emission spectra of petroleumsulfonate and OP-10 in multi-components aqueous solutions]

The determination of surfactant(s) in the alkaline/surfactant/polymer flooding solutions was an uneasy job. For this purpose, the method of fluorescence emission by phenoxy-containing surfactants in dilute solutions is suggested. The fluorescence emission intensity changes linearly with in the extent of low surfactant concentrations below the critical micelle concentration (CMC) and is not influenced by the presence of alkali, polymer PHPAM and salts. Under certain conditions the fluorescence emission by petroleum sulfonate and OP-10 in a multi-components aqueous solution can be detected independently. This method is high-selective, sensitive (the lowest detectable concentration 10(-7) mol/L) and microanalytical (the amount of test solution 2-3 microL).

Use of an alkaline phosphatase-conjugated oligonucleotide probe for the gene encoding the bundle-forming pilus of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli

An alkaline phosphatase-conjugated 29-base oligonucleotide probe was developed to detect the gene encoding the bundle-forming pilus of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli. The sensitivity and specificity of the probe versus the results of localized adherence in the HEp-2 cell assay and fluorescent actin staining assay positivity were 95.7 and 100%, respectively.

Interferon-gamma induced type I nitric oxide synthase activity inhibits viral replication in neurons

Type I NOS expression increases in OB neurons during VSV infection. Immunocytochemical staining of NB41A3 cells indicates constitutive expression of interferon (IFN)-gamma receptor and type I NOS. IFN-gamma treatment of NB41A3 cells increased NO production and type I NOS protein. In vitro replication of VSV, polio virus type I, and Herpes Simplex virus type I (HSV-1) is significantly inhibited by IFN-gamma induced type I NOS and antagonized by NOS inhibitors. In contrast, while IFN-gamma treatment inhibited influenza and Sindbis virus replication, a different pathway(s) was involved. The isoform-selective NOS inhibitor. 7-nitroindazole (7NI) was used to treat mice, resulting in a 10-fold higher titer of virus in brain homogenates, and abrogated the recovery-promoting effect of interleukin-12 treatment. Thus, IFN-gamma induced type I NOS activity may play an important role in host immunity against neurotropic viral infections.

Sex differences in susceptibility to viral infection of the central nervous system

We have characterized striking differences in recovery of male and female BALB/c and BALB/c-H-2dm2 (dm2) mice from an experimental neurotropic viral infection of the central nervous system (CNS). Following intranasal inoculation of vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), assays of tissue homogenates from female mice produced lower viral titers. There was also a significant reduction in the spread of virus from the rostral to caudal end of the brain in female mice. Enhanced recovery by female mice of both strains in response to this viral insult correlates with increased levels of Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS) types I, II, and III expression, an increased prevalence of reactive astrocytes, earlier and enhanced levels of expression of Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class II molecules on astrocytes, endothelial and microglial cells, and increased T cell infiltration in the female BALB/c mouse. Taken together, these findings document sexual dimorphism in CNS immunity, and may provide an understanding of some of the mechanisms underlying many sex-biased diseases.

[Comparison of the three methods for estimating the dry-weight of hemodialysis patients]

In order to find the best method for estimating the dry-weight of hemodialysis (HD) patients, we compared the three methods used, i.e. bioelectrical resistivity (rho), plasma cGMP (cGMP) and bromide (Br) methods. The results showed that the extracellular fluid volume per unit body mass (EFV/mass) determined with rho was negatively correlated with that determined with Br. (r = -0.7601 for normal controls and -0.5293 for HD patients, P < 0.05). However, plasma cGMP concentration was neither correlated with EFV/mass (r = 0.3724 for normal control and 0.2538 for HD patients, P > 0.05) nor with rho (r = 0.5210 for normal controls and 0.2106 for HD patients, P > 0.05). These results suggest that the bioelectrical resistivity dry-weight method is more accurate than cGMP method and moreover it is easier to perform than the NaBr method.

Host immune response to vesicular stomatitis virus infection of the central nervous system in C57BL/6 mice

In this report, the kinetics of cellular inflammatory changes in the brain of vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV)-infected C57BL/6 (B6) mice was determined. The behavior and survival rate of infected B6 were carefully monitored each day. Infectious viral titers and VSV antigen distribution were determined at several time points during the course of infection. Strong activation of both astrocytes and microglia was observed after VSV infection. Induction of type II nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) was detected in activated microglia in the olfactory bulb (OB) starting at day 4 postinfection. Induced expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules and rapid infiltration of both T cells and natural killer (NK) cells were detected in the VSV-infected CNS. Collectively, these data indicate that the response to CNS infection in B6 mice, which is often primarily Th1 in characteristics, is comparable to BALB/c mice, a strain that often shows a Th2-dominated immune response.

IL-12 promotes enhanced recovery from vesicular stomatitis virus infection of the central nervous system

To investigate the role of a cytokine in host defense against the vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) infection of the central nervous system (CNS), IL-12 was injected i.p. into groups of 10 BALB/c mice on days -1, 0, 1, 2, and 3 postinfection. Four days postinfection, mice were examined. IL-12 strongly enhanced immunity to VSV infection in the CNS as demonstrated by 1) decreased VSV titers in brain homogenate of IL-12-injected mice compared with those of controls; 2) increased expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase in the CNS; 3) enhanced expression of both MHC class I and class II Ags in the CNS; 4) increased T cell infiltration in the CNS, especially in the olfactory bulb; and 5) diminished VSV-induced apoptosis in olfactory bulb. No detrimental effect was observed even with the 200 ng/mouse dose of IL-12. Protective effects of IL-12 were dose dependent. Collectively, these results demonstrate that exogenously added IL-12, even when injected peripherally, significantly enhances recovery from VSV infection of the CNS.