Contact Lens Sensor with Anti-jamming Capability and High Sensitivity for Intraocular Pressure Monitoring

Contact lens sensors provide a noninvasive approach for intraocular pressure (IOP) monitoring in patients with glaucoma. Accurate measurement of this imperceptible pressure variation requires highly sensitive sensors in the absence of simultaneously amplifying IOP signal and blinking-induced noise. However, current noise-reduction methods rely on external filter circuits, which thicken contact lenses and reduce signal quality. Here, we introduce a contact lens strain sensor with an anti-jamming ability by utilizing a self-lubricating layer to reduce the coefficient of friction (COF) to remove the interference from the tangential force. The sensor achieves exceptionally high sensitivity due to the strain concentration layout and the confined occurrence of sympatric microcracks. The animal tests prove our lens can accurately detect IOP safely and reliably.

Impact of Thyroid Tissue Status on the Cut-Off Value of Lymph Node Fine-Needle Aspiration Thyroglobulin Measurements in Papillary Thyroid Cancer

Objective: To study the optimal cut-off value of thyroglobulin measurement in a fine-needle aspiration (FNA-Tg) in diagnosing malignant lymph nodes and benign lymph nodes (LNs) according to the thyroid tissue status.

Methods: A total of 517 LNs were aspirated: 401 preoperative LNs, 42 LNs after subtotal thyroidectomy and 74 suspected LNs after total thyroidectomy. The cut-off value of FNA-Tg was obtained from receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. The cut-off value with the best diagnostic performance was then obtained by comparing different cut-off values from other studies.

Results: LN FNA-Tg levels differed between preoperative and total thyroid disease (p < 0.001) and subtotal thyroidectomy and total thyroidectomy (p = 0.03), but not between preoperative and subtotal thyroidectomy (p = 1.00). Accordingly, those 443 LNs with preoperative and subtotal thyroidectomy were compared to those 74 without thyroid tissue. The optimal cut-off value in thyroid tissue group was 19.4 ng/ml and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.95 (95% CI 0.92–0.97). The optimal cut-off value in thyroid tissue absence group was 1.2 ng/ml and the AUC was 0.93 (0.85–0.98). After the analysis and comparison of multiple cut-off values, the optimal diagnostic performance was still found to be 19.4 ng/ml and 1.2 ng/ml.

Conclusion: The influential factors of FNA-Tg are still controversial, and the optimal cut-off value of FNA-Tg can be determined based on the presence or absence of thyroid tissue. FNA-Tg can be used as an important auxiliary method for diagnosing cervical metastatic LNs of thyroid cancer.

Construction and Validation of a Novel Pyroptosis-Related Gene Signature to Predict the Prognosis of Uveal Melanoma

Uveal melanoma is the most common primary intraocular tumor with a poor prognosis. Currently, treatment for UVM is limited, and the development of drug resistance and tumor recurrence are common. Therefore, it is important to identify new prognostic biomarkers of UVM and explore their role in the tumor microenvironment. Pyroptosis is a way of cell programmed death, and related research is in full throttle. However, the role of pyroptosis in UVM is unclear. In this study, we constructed the prognosis model of pyroptosis-related genes of UVM. This model can accurately guide the prognosis of UVM, and different groups differ in immune infiltration. We further verified our results in cell experiments. To some extent, our study can provide new ideas for the diagnosis and treatment of UVM.

[The relationship between elevated antiphospholipid antibodies and thrombosis in hospitalized patients]

Objective: Assess the relationship between elevated antiphospholipid antibodies and thrombosis in hospitalized patients. Methods: Case control study. A total of 385 patients (149 males and 236 females, aged from 1 to 105 years, with a median age of 37 years) who were hospitalized in Peking University First Hospital from January 2015 to December 2019 and tested positive for any one of the anti-phospholipid antibodies were included in the study. All subjects were divided into thrombotic group and non-thrombotic group according to whether thrombus was detected by imaging examination during hospitalization. In thrombosis group, there were 66 males and 36 females, aged from 3 to 105 years, with a median age of 58 years. In non-thrombosis group, there were 83 males and 200 females, aged from 1 to 94 years, with a median age of 31 years. Clinical data and laboratory data of patients were recorded. ACL-IgM/IgG and anti-β2GPI-IgM/IgG were detected by ELISA and LA was detected by dRVVT and SCT on automatic coagulation analyzer. The rates of age, gender, smoking, obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes and the median level of antiphospholipid antibodies were compared between two groups. Logistic multivariate regression analysis was used to determine the risk factors for thrombotic events. The mid-to-high titer value of aCL was established by the χ²-trend test and verified by logistic regression. Results: The median age (58 years) and the rates of male (64.7%), smoking (16.7%), hypertension (63.7%) and diabetes (28.4%) in thrombus group were significantly higher than those in non-thrombus group (Z=7.685, χ²=38.077, 16.312, 37.769, 24.749 respectively; P<0.01). The positive rate of anti-β2GPI-IgG and dRVVT in thrombosis group (11.8% and 78.4%) was significantly higher than that in non-thrombosis group (5.3% and 60.1%), as well as the median level of dRVVT (1.29 RU/ml vs 1.23 RU/ml) (χ²=3.864 and 10.309, Z=3.539; P<0.05). The median level of aCL-IgM was higher in non-thrombosis group (2.3 MPL vs 2.0 MPL). The positive rate of aCL-IgG was slightly higher in thrombosis group (18.6% vs 10.6%). Logistic regression analysis showed that men, hypertension, diabetes, advanced age, elevated dRVVT, and elevated anti-β2GPI-IgG are risk factors for thrombosis. Taking 36 GPL as the medium-to-high titer value of aCL-IgG, the risk of thrombosis increased by 2.45 times. Conclusions: In the anti-phospholipid antibody profile, LA detected by dRVVT method, anti-β2GPI-IgG and aCL-IgG may be valuable laboratory indicators for inpatient thrombotic events. The mid-to-high titer value of aCL-IgG is set at 36 GPL to distinguish the risk of thrombosis.

Preschool Children Exhibit Evident Compensatory Role of Internal Astigmatism in Distribution of Astigmatism: The Nanjing Eye Study

Purpose

To determine the prevalence and associated risk factors for total, corneal, and residual astigmatism and to evaluate the relations between components of astigmatism in Chinese preschool children.

Methods

In the population-based, cross-sectional Nanjing Eye Study, children were measured for noncycloplegic refractive error using an autorefractor and for biometric parameters using an optical low-coherent reflectometry. Data from right eyes were analyzed to calculate the prevalence of astigmatism using various cutpoints (0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 diopters [D]) and for determining risk factors using logistic regression models. Relations between astigmatism components were assessed using Spearman correlation coefficients (ρ).

Results

Of 1817 children (mean ± SD of age: 54.8 ± 3.5 months, 54.2% male), the median (1st and 3rd quartile) of total, corneal, and residual astigmatism (vectorial difference between total and corneal astigmatism) was -0.25 (-0.50, 0), -1.06 (-1.49, -0.72), and -0.92 (-1.23, -0.62) D and their prevalence rate 1.0 D or more was 14.2%, 56.1%, and 44.2%, respectively. With-the-rule was the most common type in total astigmatism (75.2%) and in corneal astigmatism (88.2%) while against-the-rule was predominant in residual astigmatism (75.6%). A negative correlation was found between corneal J0 and internal J0 (ρ = -0.74, P < 0.001) and between corneal J45 and internal J45 (ρ = -0.87, P < 0.001). Based on compensation factor (CF), defined as the minus ratio of internal astigmatism (vectorial difference between total and anterior corneal astigmatism) and anterior corneal astigmatism, internal J0 compensated for total J0 in varying degrees (CF: 0.1-2) in 91.5% cases, while that percentage for J45 component was 77.2%. In univariate logistic regression model, older age was significantly associated with total astigmatism (odds ratio [OR] = 0.96 for per-month increase, P = 0.03), and larger axial length-corneal radius ratio was significantly associated with higher risk of residual astigmatism (OR = 2.28 for per unit increase, P = 0.03).

Conclusions

The compensatory role of internal astigmatism on reducing corneal astigmatism was prominent in preschool children. Larger axial length-corneal radius ratio was significantly associated with higher risk of residual astigmatism.

[Protective effect of picroside Ⅱ on the brain tissue through antioxidation in stroke rats]

Objective: To investigate the effect and mechanisms of picroside Ⅱ on the brain tissue after cerebral ischemia reperfusion(I/R) in rats. Methods: The middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO) rat model was established by inserting a monofilament into middle cerebral artery. The experimental rats were treated by injecting picroside Ⅱ intraperitoneally. The modified neurological severity score (mNSS) and body weight were determined before modeling and after reperfusion of 22 h. The cerebral infarct volume was measured by TTC staining and the cerebral water content was measured in rats. At the same time, ROS content and NADPH oxidase activity were detected. The structure of neurons was observed by electron microscope and the mRNA and protein levels of Rac-1 and Nox2 were detected by RT-PCR and Western blotting. Results: After modeling, the mNSS score was significantly increased (12.6±1.3 vs 0, P<0.001), while the body weight was lost (13.3%±2.5% vs 4.9%±0.8%, P<0.01). The cerebral infarct volume increased obviously (33.5%±3.4% vs 0, P<0.001), brain water content increased significantly (81.5%±0.9% vs 77.7%±0.9%, P<0.05) and the structure of neuron was damaged obviously. The protein and mRNA levels of Rac-1 and Nox2 were significantly increased (P<0.05). After treatment with picroside Ⅱ, mNSS score decreased significantly (7.9±0.8 vs 12.6±1.3, P<0.05) and the body weight increased obviously (9.3%±1.1% vs 13.3%±2.5%, P<0.05). The infarct volume of brain was significantly reduced (18.2%±1.9% vs 33.5%±3.4%, P<0.05), brain water content decreased obviously (79.1%±0.7% vs 81.5±0.9%, P<0.05), the morphological structures of neurons was restored, and the expressions of Rac-1 and Nox2 were significantly decreased (P<0.05). Conclusion: It is suggested that picroside Ⅱ could exert antioxidation to protect the brain tissue through inhibiting the expression of Rac-1 and Nox2.

[Effect of picroside Ⅱ on the expression of mitochondrial VDAC1 after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion in rats]

Objective: To explore the effect of picroside Ⅱ on the expression of mitochondrial voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1) in rats after cerebral ischemiareperfusion. Methods: A total of 70 Wistar rats models with middle cerebral artery occlusionreperfusion (MCAO/R) were randomly divided into the sham group, model group, picroside (Picr) group, ruthenium red (RuR) group, RuR+ Picr group, Spermine (Sper) group, Sper+ Picr group (n=10 per group). Modified neurological severity scale (mNSS) was used to evaluated the neurobehavioral function, the expression of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in brain tissues were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), the morphology of brain tissues was observed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, the apoptotic cells were counted by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay (TUNEL), and the expressions of VDAC1 and endonuclease G (EndoG) were determined by immunohistochemical assay and Western blot. Results: Compared with the shame group, the mNSS scores (9.6±1.9), the expression of ROS[(47.6±2.7)U/ml], the apoptosis of neuron(23.8±2.8), and the expressions of VDAC1(0.94±0.06) and EndoG in cytoplasm (0.76±0.06) and nuclei(0.75±0.06)were enhanced in the model group (all P<0.05). The Picr group had obviously decreased mNSS scores (5.7±0.9), ROS expression[(35.6±2.2)U/ml], number of apoptotic cells (14.5±2.1), VDAC1 (0.63±0.06) and EndoG in cytoplasm (0.34±0.05) and nuclei (0.31±0.06)expressions compared to the model group (P<0.05). Conclusion: Picroside Ⅱ could attenuate cerebral I/R injury by down-regulating the expression of VDAC1 and inhibiting the EndoG release from mitochondria into cytoplasm.

Iron deficiency stress can induce MxNAS1 protein expression to facilitate iron redistribution in Malus xiaojinensis

Iron (Fe) is a vital trace element in plants, and deficiency of this element in apple trees can reduce fruit quality. Nicotianamine (NA) is known to play an important role in Fe transport and endogenous hormone balance. In the present study, we investigated the role of a nicotianamine synthase 1 gene (MxNas1) in an apple species, Malus xiaojinensis, that has a more Fe-efficient genotype than other apple species and ecotypes. To characterise the response of M. xiaojinensis to Fe deficiency, we used quantitative Q-PCR to determine the level of expression of MxNas1 and Western blot to measure protein levels. Immunohistochemical staining and GFP fluorescence localisation of the MxNAS1 protein were also carried out. HPLC and polarised absorption spectrophotometry were performed to investigate the effects of overexpression of MxNas1 in order to elucidate the role of MxNAS1 in the cellular uptake of active Fe in tobacco suspension cells. We found that MxNas1 expression and protein levels were higher under Fe deficiency stress than under Fe sufficiency. Immunohistochemical staining showed that MxNAS1 was localised mainly in the epidermal and vascular tissues of the roots, vascular tissues of the stem and palisade cells of mature leaves, and in parenchyma cells of young leaves. MxNAS1 was mainly localised in the plasma membranes and vesicles of protoplasts. In addition, overexpression of MxNas1 in stable transgenic tobacco cells increased NA and active Fe content under Fe sufficiency. The results suggest that MxNas1 expression in M. xiaojinensis is induced in response to Fe deficiency stress, resulting in higher levels of the protein. MxNAS1 may be involved in the redistribution of Fe in M. xiaojinensis under Fe deficiency.

Antioxidative effect of ginseng stem-leaf saponins on oxidative stress induced by cyclophosphamide in chickens

Previous investigation demonstrated that oral administration of ginseng stem-leaf saponins in chickens could enhance the immune response. The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of ginseng stem-leaf saponins on oxidative stress induced by cyclophosphamide in chickens. One hundred and twenty chickens were randomly divided into 5 groups. Groups 1 to 4 received intramuscular injection of cyclophosphamide to induce oxidative stress while group 5 was injected with saline solution and served as control. Following administration of cyclophosphamide, groups 1 to 3 were orally administered ginseng stem-leaf saponins at 2.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg BW in drinking water for 7 d, respectively. After that, the spleen, thymus, bursa, and serum were collected to measure the indices of the organs and oxidative parameters. The results showed that ginseng stem-leaf saponins significantly inhibited cyclophosphamide-induced oxidative stress by increasing the organ indices, total antioxidant capacity, and the levels of glutathione, ascorbic acid, and α-tocopherol, while elevating the activity of total superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, as well as decreasing the protein carbonyl content and malondialdehyde. Therefore, ginseng stem-leaf saponins could be a promising agent against oxidative stress in the poultry industry.

Apoptotic effects of platelet factor VIII on megakaryopoiesis: implications for a modified human FVIII for platelet-based gene therapy

BACKGROUND

Ectopically expressed B-domainless factor VIII in megakaryocytes is stored in α-granules, is effective in a number of murine hemostatic models, and is protected from circulating inhibitors. However, this platelet (p) FVIII has different temporal-spatial availability from plasma FVIII, with limited efficacy in other murine hemostatic models.

OBJECTIVES AND METHODS

We sought to improve pFVIII hemostatic efficacy by expressing canine (c) FVIII, which has higher stability and activity than human (h) FVIII in FVIII(null) mice.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

We found that pcFVIII was more effective than phFVIII at restoring hemostasis, but peak pcFVIII antigen levels were lower and were associated with greater megakaryocyte apoptosis than phFVIII. These new insights suggest that pFVIII gene therapy strategies should focus on enhancing activity rather than levels. We previously showed that modification of the PACE/furin cleavage site in hFVIII resulted in secretion of hFVIII primarily as a single-chain molecule with increased biological activity. In megakaryocytes, this variant was expressed at the same level as phFVIII with a lentiviral bone marrow transplant approach to reconstitute FVIII(null) mice, but was more effective, resulting in near-normal hemostasis in the cremaster laser injury model. These studies may have implications for pFVIII gene therapy in hemophilia A.

Enhanced immune responses of chickens to oral vaccination against infectious bursal disease by ginseng stem-leaf saponins

Infectious bursal disease (IBD), caused by infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV), is an immunosuppressive infectious disease of global economic importance in poultry. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of oral administration of ginseng stem-leaf saponins (GSLS) on humoral and gut mucosal immunity in chickens vaccinated with live IBDV vaccine, and furthermore, to test its protective efficacy against virulent IBDV challenge following vaccination. In experiment 1, chickens were orally administered with GSLS at 5 mg/kg of BW for 7 d, and then immunized with live IBDV vaccine via the oral route. Serum was sampled on 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 wk postvaccination for detecting antibody titers by ELISA, and intestinal tissues were collected on 0, 1, 3, and 5 wk postvaccination for measurement of IgA-positive cells and intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes by immunohistochemical and hematoxylin-eosin staining, respectively. Result showed that antibody titers, IgA-positive cells and intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes were significantly higher in chickens drinking GSLS than the control, suggesting an enhanced effect of GSLS on humoral and gut mucosal immune responses. In experiment 2, chickens were delivered with GSLS and then vaccinated in the same way as in experiment 1. The birds were challenged with virulent IBDV at wk 3 postvaccination. Then the birds were weighed, bled, and necropsied at d 3 postchallenge and the bursae were sampled for gross and histopathological examination. Results demonstrated that GSLS provided a better protection against virulent IBDV challenge following vaccination than the control. In conclusion, oral administration of GSLS enhances both humoral and gut mucosal immune responses to IBDV and offers a better protection against virulent IBDV challenge. Considering its immunomodulatory properties to IBDV vaccine, GSLS might be a promising oral adjuvant for vaccination against infectious diseases in poultry.

Influence of indoor formaldehyde pollution on respiratory system health in the urban area of Shenyang, China

BACKGROUND

The decoration of interior spaces can lead to dangerous levels of indoor formaldehyde pollution. Exposure to indoor air pollution may be responsible for nearly 2 million deaths per year in developing countries.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the prevalence of indoor formaldehyde pollution caused by decoration and resultant respiratory system symptoms exhibited in exposed adults and children, due to indoor formaldehyde pollution caused by decoration.

METHODS

Survey sites were chosen and indoor formaldehyde concentrations determined according to the standard of formaldehyde in GB50325-2001. Logistic regression models were used to derive odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) after adjusting for potential confounders for this survey.

RESULTS

Formaldehyde concentration was above the standard in 64% of Shenyang City. Some adults surveyed complained of common respiratory system disorders, including coughing (11.8%), nasal irritation (39.2%), Heterosmia (14.51%), and throat irritation (25.27%); 12% of children suffered from asthma. The analysis identified formaldehyde pollution and ventilation frequency as risk factors for respiratory system disorders in both adults (OR=2.603, [95% CI: 1.770-3.828], OR=1.604, [95% CI: 1.146-2.244], respectively) and children (OR=4.250, [2.064-8.753], OR=1.831, [1.006-3.333], respectively).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of common respiratory system disorders was related both to formaldehyde pollution and insufficient ventilation after decorating.

Inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor A expression in mouse granulosa cells by lentivector-mediated RNAi

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been found responsible for the induction of proliferation and differentiation in granulosa cells. We constructed four short hairpin RNA (shRNA) expression plasmids targeting the mouse VEGFA gene, and examined their effect on VEGF expression in mouse granulosa cells (MGC) in vitro. Four different shRNA oligonucleotides targeting the coding sequence of mouse VEGFA mRNA and one negative control (shNC) were designed and cloned into a pGPU6/GFP/Neo siRNA expression vector, and transiently transfected into MGC. At 48 h post-transfection, total RNA was extracted from the cells and subjected to qRT-PCR analysis. The most effective interference vector, shVEGF1487 was chosen for lentiviral construction. The recombinant plasmid was then transfected into 293FT cells via Lipofectamine(TM) 2000-mediated gene transfer, for the production of lentivirus, and then concentrated via ultracentrifugation. This lentiviral vector was then used for the transduction of MGC. VEGFA gene expression, apoptosis genes and VEGFA receptor genes were detected by qRT-PCR, the VEGFA protein level in culture media by ELISA assay and protein levels in MGC by Western blot analysis. The four VEGFA expression plasmids were successfully constructed and the most effective interference vector, shVEGF1487, was chosen for lentiviral production and MGC transduction. There was significant knockdown of the VEGFA gene, receptor genes and apoptosis genes for all the shVEGF constructs, compared with the shNC and Mock controls. The lentiviral vector also gave significant knockdown of the VEGFA gene. Protein levels were lower for most of the shVEGFs based on Western blot analysis with exception of VEGF1359; in this case, it was higher than shNC but lower than for the Mock group. Lentivector-transduced MGC also gave lower levels of protein. We conclude that shVEGF expression plasmids and lentivector carrying RNAi are promising tools for the inhibition of VEGF, the corresponding receptor genes, and apoptosis gene expression in MGC.

Enhancement of humoral immune responses to inactivated Newcastle disease and avian influenza vaccines by oral administration of ginseng stem-and-leaf saponins in chickens

Newcastle disease (ND) and avian influenza (AI) are common in the poultry industry. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of oral administration of ginseng stem-and-leaf saponins (GSLS) on the humoral immune responses of chickens to inactivated ND and AI vaccines. In experiment 1, oral administration of GSLS at a dose of 5 mg/kg of BW for 7 d on the immune response in chickens intramuscularly injected with inactivated ND vaccine was evaluated. Results showed that GSLS significantly increased the antibody level against ND in the serum of chickens. In experiment 2, the same regimen of GSLS was administered to chickens inoculated with inactivated AI vaccines, and an enhanced serum antibody response to AI vaccination was also observed. Considering the safety of GSLS, because no adverse effect was found throughout the experiments, GSLS may be a promising oral adjuvant to improve immunization in poultry.

Much more than a ratio: multivariate selection on female bodies

Studies of the attractiveness of female bodies have focussed strongly on the waist, hips and bust, but sexual selection operates on whole phenotypes rather than the relative proportions of just two or three body parts. Here, we use body scanners to extract computer-generated images of 96 Chinese women's bodies with all traits unrelated to body shape removed. We first show that Chinese and Australian men and women rate the attractiveness of these bodies the same. We then statistically explore the roles of age, body weight and a range of length and girth measures on ratings of attractiveness. Last, we use nonlinear selection analysis, a statistical approach developed by evolutionary biologists to explore the interacting effects of suites of traits on fitness, to study how body traits interact to determine attractiveness. Established proxies of adiposity and reproductive value, including age, body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio, were all correlated with attractiveness. Nonlinear response surface methods using the original traits consistently outperform all of these indices and ratios, suggesting that indices of youth and abdominal adiposity tell only part of the story of body attractiveness. In particular, our findings draw attention to the importance of integration between abdominal measures, including the bust, and the length and girth of limbs. Our results provide the most comprehensive analysis to date of the effect of body shape and fat deposition on female attractiveness.

Prognostic value of different B symptoms in upper aerodigestive tract NK/T-cell lymphoma

e19544

Background: Extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma (ENKL) is a rare disease originated from NK or toxic T cells. ENKL arising from the upper aerodigestive tract (UNKTL) is a newly recognized subtype and commonly presents with B symptoms. This study is to investigate the prognostic value of different B symptoms in UNKTL. Methods: UNKTL cases with detailed clinical, pathological and prognostic data in our center since 2001 to 2007 were retrospectively analyzed with the major study endpoint of overall survival (OS). Central pathological review was performed. Survival curves were estimated by Kaplan-Meier method and tested by Log Rank method. Statistically significant factors in univariate analysis were then included in multivariate analysis. B symptoms were defined as fever, night sweat and weight loss according to the Ann Arbor Cotswolds meeting. The predictive values of survival for each type of B symptoms were studied independently. Results: 172 cases of UNKTL with a median follow-up duration of 27.4 months were included. 45 ladies and 127 gentlemen had a median age of 43 years. 98 cases were Ann Arbor stage I, 54 were stage II and the remaining 20 cases were stage III or IV. About half of the patients present B symptoms: 82 had fever, 5 had night sweat and 6 present weight loss. Totally 18 patients had ECOG PS larger than 1. The 5-year OS rate of the whole group is 41.8%. Patients with persistent fever before treatment indicated a poor outcome in the univariate analysis (p=.033) and its prognostic value was also confirmed by the Cox regression (p=.030) whereas those of night sweat and weight loss were not (p= .960 and .824 respectively). Conclusions: B symptoms were common in UNKTL patients. Our data suggested that only fever among the three types of B symptoms was independent prognostic factor for UNKTL but it still needs further confirmation.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Effects of pig antibacterial peptides on growth performance and intestine mucosal immune of broiler chickens

Currently, substitutions for antibiotic growth promoters in animals are attracting interest. This study investigated the effects of pig antibacterial peptides (PABP) on growth performance and small intestine mucosal immune responses in broilers. Three hundred 1-d-old Arbor Acre male broiler chickens were randomly allocated to 5 groups with 60 birds per group. The groups were control group; PABP administered in drinking water at 20 and 30 mg/L of water; or PABP supplemented in feed at 150 and 200 mg/kg of diet. The birds were fed a corn-soybean based diet for 6 wk. Chickens were weighed weekly and killed after 42 d of feeding, and growth performance was measured. Samples of the duodenum and jejunum were collected. The villus height, mucosa thickness, alkaline phosphatase activity, and numbers of secreting IgA and goblet cells were evaluated. The PABP-treated groups had greater BW and average daily gain, greater height of villus and thickness of gut mucosa, greater activity of alkaline phosphatase, higher ratio of secreting IgA, and a greater number of goblet cells compared with the control group (P<0.05). In conclusion, PABP can improve the growth performance, increase the intestinal ability to absorb nutrients, and improve the mucosal immunity of the intestine.

CHOP compared to THP-COP regimen: Long-term outcome in Chinese non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) patients

8081

Background: THP-ADM (Pirarubicin) has potential to replace conventional ADM (Adriamycin) because of less severe toxicities. However, only a few studies have compared the long-term outcome between patients receiving the two drugs. A Japanese trial (JGTLE) shows the CR rate of THP-COP group was greater than CHOP group in elderly T-cell Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL) patients. The current study was aimed at comparing the long-term outcome and toxicities between NHL patients receiving CHOP and THP-COP regimens within similar age-groups and pathological sub-types. Methods: 505 previously untreated NHL patients receiving either standard CHOP or THP-COP regimen (cyclophosphamide 750 mg/m2, doxorubicin or pirarubicin 50 mg/m2, vincristine 1.4 mg/m2and prednisone 40 mg/m2 for 5 days) were enrolled. Results: Patients’ characteristics between CHOP group(n=279) and THP-COP (n=228) group were well balanced. There were no differences in CR rate (54.8% vs. 54.0%, p=0.85) and response rate (82.1% vs. 84.1%, p=0.55). With a median follow-up of 59.7months, survival rate was similar (5-year OS: 56.7% vs. 55.8%, 5-year PFS: 43.5% vs. 47.3%, 5-year DFS: 54.0% vs. 54.7%). The incidence of cardiotoxicity(myocardial dysfunction and arrhythmia)was almost the same (10.0% vs10.2 %; P=0.958). Less Alopecia (39.1% vs. 28.8%, p= 0.015)and gastrointestinal toxicities(63.1% vs. 50.0%, p=0.003) were observed in THP-COP group. No differences between the two groups were observed within different pathological subtypes (B-cell subtype: CR rate 58.2% vs. 56.7%, 5-year OS 59.2% vs. 60.0%; T-cell subtype: CR rate 47.0% vs. 45.5%, 5-year OS 50.5% vs. 43.4%) and age-groups (<60 years group: CR rate 51.6% vs. 53.7%, p= 0.684; 5y OS 58.9% vs.61.1%, p= 0.570; =60 years group: CR rate 67.9% vs. 54.8 %, p= 0.148; 5y OS 48.0% vs. 42.1 %, p= 0.314). In the 33 elderly patients of T-cell subtype, CR rates were almost the same. (73.7% vs. 42.9%, p=0.073). Conclusions: The long-term outcome of NHL patients receiving THP-COP is similar to those receiving CHOP within similar age groups and pathologic subtypes. Cardiotoxicity occurs at a similar rate in both groups, while a lower incidence of alopecia and gastrointestinal toxicities was observed in THP-COP group.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Prognostic value of hemoglobin in natural killer cell lymphoma

17557

Background: Natural Killer (NK) cell lymphoma is a group of increasingly recognized but poorly defined disease entities. This study investigated its clinical features and prognostic factors for southern China population. Methods: Patients with pathologically confirmed NK cell lymphoma in one center since 1999 to 2004 were included. Central histological and immunohistochemical review was undertaken to every case. The major study endpoint was overall survival. Survival curves were estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method. Detailed clinical, pathological and laboratory data were included in univariate analysis and statistically significant factors in univariate analysis were then included in multivariate analysis. Results: Totally 64 eligible patients were identified. Of these, 59 patients were extranodal NK cell lymphoma nasal type, 3 patients were aggressive NK cell lymphoma and 2 patients were blastic NK cell lymphoma. From the basic analysis, 47% of the patients had stage I disease, 42% were stage II, 11% were stage III or IV. B-symptoms were present in 39%. 73% of these patients had International Prognostic Index (IPI) 0 or 1. Before treatment, 25% complicated with anemia. As to the therapy, 38% received chemotherapy alone, 3% received radiotherapy alone and 59% received a multidisciplinary therapy. After initial therapy, 59% achieved CR, 22% achieved PR and 19% were refractory disease. With a median follow-up duration of 20 months, the median overall survival was 28 months (95% CI: 10, 45). Hb lower than 110 g/l before treatment was statistically significant in multivariate analysis (p = 0.031). Presenting B-symptoms and ECOG PS score higher than 1 were also independent prognostic factors (P = 0.001 and 0.006 respectively). Conclusions: The outcome of patients with NK cell lymphoma was poor even for Stage I or II cases. Our data suggested Hemoglobin < 110 g/l had more prognostic value than IPI and Ann Arbor staging system for NK cell lymphoma in southern China, but it needs further confirmation.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Involvement of LEU13 in interferon-induced refractoriness of human RSa cells to cell killing by X rays

Culture of human cells with human interferon alpha and beta (IFNA and IFNB) results in increased resistance of the cells to cell killing by X rays. To identify candidate genes responsible for the IFN-induced X-ray resistance, we searched for genes whose expression levels are increased in human RSa cells treated with IFNA, using an mRNA differential display method and Northern blotting analysis. RSa cells, which showed increased survival (assayed by colony formation) after X irradiation when they were treated with IFNA prior to irradiation, showed increased expression levels of LEU13 (IFITM1) mRNA after IFNA treatment alone. In contrast, IF(r) and F-IF(r) cells, both of which are derived from RSa cells, showed increased X-ray resistance and high constitutive LEU13 mRNA expression levels compared to the parental RSa cells. Furthermore, the IFNA-induced resistance of RSa cells to killing by X rays was suppressed by antisense oligonucleotides for LEU13 mRNA. LEU13, a leukocyte surface protein, was previously reported to mediate the actions of IFN such as inhibition of cell proliferation. The present results suggest a novel role of LEU13 different from that in the inhibition of cell proliferation, involved in IFNA-induced refractoriness of RSa cells to X rays.

Purification and enzymatic activity of an NADH-fumarate reductase and other mitochondrial activities of Leishmania parasites

A 65 kD membrane-associated NADH-fumarate reductase subunit, which has a molecular weight similar to that of one of the enzyme subunits from bacteria, was purified from Leishmania donovani promastigotes. NADH-fumarate reductase and other mitochondrial enzymatic activities of L. major and L. donovani promastigotes and amastigotes were investigated. The presence of NADH-fumarate reductase was demonstrated in digitonin-permeabilized L. major promastigotes and mitochondria of L. major and L. donovani promastigotes and amastigotes. The activity of solubilized NADH-fumarate reductase was measured in L. major and L. donovani promastigotes. Succinate exhibited a clear concentration-dependent inhibitory effect on fumarate reductase, whereas fumarate also exhibited a clear concentration-dependent inhibitory effect on succinate dehydrogenase. The data indicate that fumarate reductase is an obligatory component of the respiratory chain of the parasite. Since the enzyme is an important component in the intermediate metabolism in the Leishmania parasite and is absent in mammalian cells, it could be a potential target for antileishmanial drugs.

Tyrosine phosphorylation of villin regulates the organization of the actin cytoskeleton

We have previously shown that tyrosine phosphorylation of the actin-regulatory protein villin is accompanied by the redistribution of phosphorylated villin and a concomitant decrease in the F-actin content of intestinal epithelial cells. The temporal and spatial correlation of these two events suggested that tyrosine phosphorylation of villin may be involved in the rearrangement of the microvillar cytoskeleton. This hypothesis was investigated by analyzing the effects of tyrosine phosphorylation of villin on the kinetics of actin polymerization by reconstituting in vitro the tyrosine phosphorylation of villin and its association with actin. Full-length recombinant human villin was phosphorylated in vitro by expression in the TKX1-competent cells that carry an inducible tyrosine kinase gene. The actin-binding properties of villin were examined using a co-sedimentation assay. Phosphorylation of villin did not change the stoichiometry (1:2) but decreased the binding affinity (4.4 microm for unphosphorylated versus 0.6 microm for phosphorylated) of villin for actin. Using a pyrene-actin-based fluorescence assay, we demonstrated that tyrosine phosphorylation had a negative effect on actin nucleation by villin. In contrast, tyrosine phosphorylation enhanced actin severing by villin. Electron microscopic analysis showed complementary morphological changes. Phosphorylation inhibited the actin bundling and enhanced the actin severing functions of villin. Taken together our data show that tyrosine phosphorylation of villin decreases the amount of villin bound to actin filaments, inhibits the actin-polymerizing properties of villin, and promotes the actin-depolymerizing functions instead. These observations suggest a role for tyrosine phosphorylation in modulating the microvillar cytoskeleton in vivo by villin in response to specific physiological stimuli.

Inhibition of fumarate reductase in Leishmania major and L. donovani by chalcones

Our previous studies have shown that chalcones exhibit potent antileishmanial and antimalarial activities in vitro and in vivo. Preliminary studies showed that these compounds destroyed the ultrastructure of Leishmania parasite mitochondria and inhibited the respiration and the activity of mitochondrial dehydrogenases of Leishmania parasites. The present study was designed to further investigate the mechanism of action of chalcones, focusing on the parasite respiratory chain. The data show that licochalcone A inhibited the activity of fumarate reductase (FRD) in the permeabilized Leishmania major promastigote and in the parasite mitochondria, and it also inhibited solubilized FRD and a purified FRD from L. donovani. Two other chalcones, 2,4-dimethoxy-4'-allyloxychalcone (24m4ac) and 2,4-dimethoxy-4'-butoxychalcone (24mbc), also exhibited inhibitory effects on the activity of solubilized FRD in L. major promastigotes. Although licochalcone A inhibited the activities of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH), NADH dehydrogenase (NDH), and succinate- and NADH-cytochrome c reductases in the parasite mitochondria, the 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC(50)) of licochalcone A for these enzymes were at least 20 times higher than that for FRD. The IC(50) of licochalcone A for SDH and NDH in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells were at least 70 times higher than that for FRD. These findings indicate that FRD, one of the enzymes of the parasite respiratory chain, might be the specific target for the chalcones tested. Since FRD exists in the Leishmania parasite and does not exist in mammalian cells, it could be an excellent target for antiprotozoal drugs.

Study on the degeneracy of antisense peptides using affinity chromatography

The degeneracy of antisense peptides was studied by high-performance affinity chromatography. A model sense peptide (AAAA) and its antisense peptides (CGGG, GGGG, RGGG, SGGG) were designed and synthesized according to the degeneracy of genetic codes. An affinity column with AAAA as the ligand was prepared. The affinity chromatographic behaviors of antisense peptides on the column were evaluated. The results indicated that model antisense peptides have clear retention on the immobilized AAAA affinity column. RGGG showed the strongest affinity interaction. Similar result was obtained from another experiment that Arg-substituted antisense peptide of fusion peptide (1-11) of influenza virus A was also shown the highest affinity binding to immobilized fusion peptide.

Do rodents have a gene encoding glycogenin-2, the liver isoform of the self-glucosylating initiator of glycogen synthesis?

The discovery of a second human gene, GYG2, encoding a liver-specific isoform of glycogenin, the self-glucosylating initiator of glycogen biosynthesis, raised the possibility for differential controls of this protein in liver and muscle. The new protein, glycogenin-2, had several properties similar biochemically to the muscle isoform, glycogenin-1, but unlike glycogenin-1, stable expression in fibroblasts led to a significant overaccumulation of glycogen. Ensuing attempts to generate reagents suitable for use with rodents, to examine the physiological regulation of glycogenin-2 by nutritional and hormonal factors, have been unsuccessful. Proof of a negative is difficult but the weight of the evidence is beginning to mitigate against the existence of a second glycogenin gene in rodents leading us to hypothesize that the presence of the GYG2 gene is limited to primates.

Structure and chromosomal localization of the human glycogenin-2 gene GYG2

Glycogenin-2 is one of two self-glucosylating proteins involved in the initiation phase of the synthesis of the storage polysaccharide glycogen. Cloning of the human glycogenin-2 gene, GYG2, has revealed the presence of 11 exons and a gene of more than 46 kb in size. The structure of the gene explains much of the observed diversity in glycogenin-2 cDNA sequences as being due to alternate exon usage. In some cases, there is variation in the splice junctions used. Over regions of protein sequence similarity, the GYG2 gene structure is similar to that of the other glycogenin gene, GYG. A genomic GYG2 clone was used to localize the gene to Xp22.3 by fluorescence in-situ hybridization. Localization close to the telomere of the short arm of the X chromosome is consistent with mapping information obtained from glycogenin-2 STS sequences. Glycogenin-2 maps between the microsatellite anchor markers AFM319te9 (DXS7100) and AFM205tf2 (DXS1060), and its 3' end is 34.5 kb from the 3' end of the arylsulphatase gene ARSD. GYG2 is outside the pseudoautosomal region PAR1 but still in a region of X-Y shared genes. As is true for several other genes in this location, an inactive remnant of GYG2, consisting of exons 1-3, may be present on the Y chromosome.

[Detection of telomerase activity in prostate needle-biopsy samples]

OBJECTIVE

To detect telomerase activity inprostate needle-biopsy samples and its role in diagnosis and prognosis of prostate cancer.

METHODS

20 tissue samples of prostate cancer tissues and 16 samples of adjacent tissues were obtained by needle-biopsy guided by transrectal B ultrasonography. 16 samples of benign prostatic hyperplasia tissues were obtained by prostatectomy and were confirmed pathologically. Telomerase activity was revealed by modified PCR-based telomeric repeat amplication protocol (TRAP)-silver staining assay.

RESULTS

Telomerase activity was revealed in 18 cases of prostate cancer. In tissues adjacent to prostate cancer, telomerase activity was found in 7 of 11 cases of prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN), and in 2 of 5 cases of BPH. None of tissue samples from patients with BPH showed telomerase activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Telomerase activity in prostate needle-biopsy samples might be an useful marker for detecting prostate cancer and biological malignancy.

Characterization of the respiratory chain of Helicobacter pylori

The respiratory chain of Helicobacter pylori has been investigated. The total insensitivity of activities of NADH dehydrogenase to rotenone and of NADH-cytochrome c reductase to antimycin is indicative of the absence of the classical complex I of the electron transfer chain in this bacterium. NADPH-dependent respiration was significantly stronger than NADH-dependent respiration, indicating that this is a major respiratory electron donor in H. pylori. Fumarate and malonate exhibited a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect on the activity of succinate dehydrogenase. The activity of succinate-cytochrome c reductase was inhibited by antimycin, implying the presence of a classical pathway from complex II to complex III in this bacterium. The presence of NADH-fumarate reductase (FRD) was demonstrated in H. pylori and fumarate could reduce H2O2 production from NADH, indicating fumarate to be an endogenous substrate for accepting electrons from NADH. The activity of NADH-FRD was inhibited by 2-thenoyltrifluoroacetone. A tentative scheme for the electron transfer pathway in H. pylori is proposed, which may be helpful in clarifying the pathogenesis of H. pylori and in opening new lines for chemotherapy against this bacterium.

The antileishmanial activity of novel oxygenated chalcones and their mechanism of action

Our previous studies have shown that licochalcone A, an oxygenated chalcone, has antileishmanial and antimalarial activities, and alters the ultrastructure and function of the mitochondria of Leishmania spp. parasites. The present study was designed to investigate the antileishmanial activity and the mechanism of action of a group of new oxygenated chalcones. The tested oxygenated chalcones inhibited the in-vitro growth of Leishmania major promastigotes and Leishmania donovani amastigotes. Treatment of hamsters infected with L. donovani with intraperitoneal administration of two oxygenated chalcones resulted in a significant reduction of parasite load in the liver and the spleen compared with untreated control animals. The oxygenated chalcones also inhibited the respiration of the parasite and the activity of mitochondrial dehydrogenases. Electron microscopic studies illustrated that they altered the ultrastructure of the mitochondria of L. major promastigote. The data clearly indicate that this group of oxygenated chalcones has a strong antileishmanial activity and might be developed into a new antileishmanial drug. The antileishmanial activity of oxygenated chalcones might be the result of interference with function of the parasite mitochondria.

Novel aspects of the regulation of glycogen storage

The storage polysaccharide glycogen is widely distributed in nature, from bacteria to mammals. Study of its regulated accumulation has resulted in the discovery or elaboration of several important biochemical principles. Many aspects of the control of glycogen storage still remain poorly understood and glycogen metabolism continues to provide interesting models of more general relevance.

[Feasibility study of laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) spectrum for diagnosis of colon cancer]

OBJECTIVE

To study the usefulness of laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) spectrum for diagnosis of colon cancer.

METHODS

Nitrogen laser, wavelength 337 nm, optical multichannel analyzer (OMA III) were used to demonstrate LIF spectra. A standard spectrum of LIF of colon cancer was used to analyse that of 51 surgically removed colon specimens and the results were compared with pathological findings.

RESULTS

Compared with pathological findings, LIF spectrum examination had 80.0% sensitivity, 100% specificity, with positive predictive value of 100%, negative predictive value of 83.9% and accuracy of 90.2% for the diagnosis of colon cancer, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) spectrum of colon is of use in the diagnosis of colon cancer.

The novel oxygenated chalcone, 2,4-dimethoxy-4'-butoxychalcone, exhibits potent activity against human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum in vitro and rodent parasites Plasmodium berghei and Plasmodium yoelii in vivo

Previous studies have shown that licochalcone A, an oxygenated chalcone, exhibits antileishmanial and antimalarial activities. The present study was designed to examine the antimalarial activity of an analog of licochalcone A, 2,4-dimethoxy-4'-butoxychalcone (2,4mbc). 2,4mbc inhibited the in vitro growth of both a chloroquine-susceptible (3D7) and a chloroquine-resistant (Dd2) strain of Plasmodium falciparum in a [3H]hypoxanthine uptake assay. The in vivo activity of 2,4mbc was tested in mice infected with Plasmodium berghei or Plasmodium yoelii and in rats infected with P. berghei. 2,4mbc administered either orally, intraperitoneally, or subcutaneously for 5 days protected the mice from otherwise lethal infections of these parasites. 2,4mbc administered orally for 5 days reduced parasitemia in the rats infected with P. berghei. These results demonstrate that 2,4mbc exhibits potent antimalarial activity and might be developed into a new antimalarial drug.

Immunoreactivities of p11 and calcyclin in baker's yeast, wheat germ and lobster

After effectively eliminating the nonspecific cross-immunoreactivity with the affinity columns of anti-IgG agarose and IgG agarose, the potent immunoreactivities of p11 and calcyclin in wheat germ, lobster tail muscle, and three strains of baker's yeast were analyzed by Western blotting using mouse anti-p11 and rabbit anti-calcyclin. The occurrence of multiple bands may be due to either autolyses and/or the interactions between the p11 (or calcyclin) and other endogenous biological molecules. The results suggest not only a ubiquitous distribution and a universal Ca(2+)-mediating regulatory role of p11 and calcyclin in eukaryotes, but also an evolutionary conservation of these (S-100)-related proteins.

Immunoreactivities of m-calpain, calpastatin, nitric oxide synthase, myelin basic protein and dynamin II in baker's yeast, wheat germ and lobster tail muscle

Vertebrate m-calpain, calpastatin, constitutive nitric oxide synthase, myelin basic protein, and dynamin I are substrates of protein kinase C (PKC). The presence/absence of similar/related protein in nonvertebrate was investigated by immunological methods, including (1) affinity chromatography on agarose-secondary antibodies and agarose IgG for removal of nonspecific immunoreactivities from crude extracts; (2) omitting beta-mercaptoethanol treatment and boiling prior to SDS-PAGE to increase the immunoreactivity; (3) immunoreactivity comparisons of nonspecific IgG as controls with specific anti-(vertebrate PKC-substrates/related proteins) in Western blots. It was found that (a) m-calpain and dynamin I were absent in baker's yeast, wheat germ and lobster tail muscle, (b) m-calpain, nitric oxide synthase, myelin basic protein and dynamin II were present in all three samples, and (c) calpastatin was present in baker's yeast and lobster tail muscle. The presence and absence of these proteins suggest evolutionary conservation and divergence, respectively, of these PKC substrates.

The antileishmanial agent licochalcone A interferes with the function of parasite mitochondria

Our previous studies have shown that licochalcone A, an oxygenated chalcone, has antileishmanial (M. Chen, S.B. Christensen, J. Blom, E. Lemmich, L. Nadelmann, K. Fich, T.G. Theander, and A. Kharazmi, Antimicrob, Agents Chemother. 37:2550-2556, 1993; M. Chen, S.B. Christensen, T.G. Theander, and A. Khrazmi, Antimicrob. Agents Chemother. 38:1339-1344, 1994) and antimalarial (M. Chen, T.G. Theander, S.B. Christensen, L. Hviid, L. Zhai, and A. Kaharazmi, Antimicrob. Agents Chemother. 38:1470-1475, 1994) activities. We have observed that licochalcone A alters the ultrastructure of the mitochondria of Leishmania promastigotes (Chen et al., Antimicrob. Agents Chemother. 37:2550-2556, 1993). The present study was designed to examine this observation further and investigate the mechanism of action of antileishmanial activity of licochalcone A. Electron microscopic studies showed that licochalcone A altered the ultrastructure of Leishmania major promastigote and amastigote mitochondria in a concentration-dependent manner without damaging the organelles of macrophages or the phagocytic function of these cells. Studies on the function of the parasite mitochondria showed that licochalcone A inhibited the respiration of the parasite by the parasites. Moreover, licochalcone A inhibited the activity of the parasite mitochondrial dehydrogenase. The inhibition of the activity of the parasite mitochondrial enzyme correlated well with the changes in the ultrastructure of the mitochondria shown by electron microscopy. These findings demonstrate that licochalcone A alters the ultrastructure and function of the mitochondria of Leishmania parasites.