Efficacy of Nimotuzumab plus Concurrent Chemo-Radiotherapy for Unresectable Esophageal Cancer: A Real-World Study

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

The esophageal cancer ranked 7th in the morbidity of malignant cancer and the 6th contributed to carcinoma deaths. Most patients are diagnosed of advanced stage at first visiting. The 5-year survival rate of unresectable esophageal cancer is about 20% after the standard treatment of concurrent chemo-radiotherapy. Nimotuzumab, a humanized anti-EGFR antibody, has shown good efficacy and low toxicity in epithelial tumors. This two-center, real-world study evaluated the efficacy and safety of nimotuzumab combined with concurrent chemoradiotherapy in unresectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

MATERIALS/METHODS

Totally 503 eligible unresectable ESCC patients from Jan 2014 to Dec 2020 were included. 1:2 nearest neighbor propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to match the Nimo group (nimotuzumab plus concurrent chemo-radiotherapy) and CRT group (concurrent chemo-radiotherapy), and the covariates included age, gender, tumor location, lesion length, TNM stage, clinical stage, and radiotherapy dose. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS). The secondary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), and disease control rate (DCR).

RESULTS

A total of 61 patients were in Nimo group which received nimotuzumab (200 mg/w, 4-6 weeks) combined with concurrent chemo-radiotherapy (chemotherapy: S-1/FP/TP/DP for 2-4 cycles; radiotherapy: 2DRT,3D-CRT or IMRT, 50-70 Gy in 25-35 fractions) and 107 patients in CRT group only received concurrent chemo-radiotherapy. The baseline characteristics were well balanced between the two groups. The efficacy of Nimo group was better than that of CRT group. The ORR was 85.2% vs. 71.0%, (P=0.037), the DCR was 98.4% vs. 91.6%, (P>0.05). The median PFS was 28.07 months vs. 19.54 months, and the 1-, 3- and 5-year PFS rates were 78.2% vs. 72.9%, 37.5% vs. 28.3%, and 29.1% vs. 21.3%, respectively (HR: 0.6860, 95% CI: 0.4902-0.9600, P=0.034). The median OS was 34.93 months vs. 24.30 months and the 1-, 3- and 5-year OS rates were 88.5% vs. 81.3%, 46.8% vs. 35.2% and 37.4% vs. 28.0%, respectively (HR: 0.6701, 95% CI: 0.4792-0.9372, P=0.024). The adverse events including radiation esophagitis, radiation pneumonitis, bone marrow suppression, nausea, vomiting, and rash were no significantly different between the two groups (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

Nimotuzumab combined with concurrent chemo-radiotherapy improved the ORR, and prolonged PFS and OS in unresectable ESCC patients with a good tolerance.

[Comparison of gemstone spectral curve and CT value of gastric cancer with different pathological types and differentiation degrees]

Objective: To investigate the differences of gemstone spectral curve and CT value of gastric cancer with different pathological types and differentiation degrees. Methods: 91 cases of preoperative gemstone CT images with gastric cancer were collected, including 24 cases of mucinous carcinoma, 67 cases of non-mucinous carcinoma, 16 cases of signet ring cell carcinoma, 8 cases of mucinous adenocarcinoma, 32 cases of moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma and 35 cases of poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma. Gemstone CT spectral imaging was performed preoperatively, and the spectral curve of the lesion in venous phase was obtained by using GSI Viewer software, the slope of the curve was calculated, and 11 monoenergetic CT values of 40~140 keV (10 keV interval) were measured. The gemstone spectral curves and CT values of gastric cancer with different pathological types and differentiation degrees are compared. Results: The curve slopes of non-mucinous carcinoma, signet ring cell carcinoma and poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma were -1.92±0.53, -1.73±0.37 and -2.14±0.54, respectively. The absolute values were higher than those of mucinous carcinoma (-1.45±0.54), mucinous adenocarcinoma (-0.90±0.34) and moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma (-1.67±0.41), and the differences were all statistically significant (P<0.05). There were significant differences in monoenergetic CT values between mucinous and non-mucinous carcinomas at 40-140 keV (all P<0.05). The former was lower than the latter in different degrees, and the lower the energy, the greater the difference was. There were significant differences in monoenergetic CT values between signet ring cell carcinoma and mucinous adenocarcinoma at 40-100 keV (all P<0.05); monoenergetic CT values between poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma and moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma at 40-90 keV showed statistically significant differences (P<0.05). Conclusions: Gastric cancer with different pathological types and differentiation degrees have their characteristic spectral curves in venous phase, and the monoenergetic CT values are significantly different at low energy. The spectral curve of gemstone CT may be helpful to evaluate the pathological type and differentiation degree of gastric cancer before operation.

LncRNA MALAT1 facilities high glucose induced endothelial to mesenchymal transition and fibrosis via targeting miR-145/ZEB2 axis

OBJECTIVE

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the most common complications of diabetes mellitus (DM), but the pathophysiology of DN is complex and not fully understood. Renal tubal epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been shown to be the critical mechanism of glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. However, the precise mechanisms underlying EMT are not clear. MALAT1 was found induced by hyperglycemia in kidney but whether MALAT1 is involved in renal tubal EMT remains unknown. The objective of our study is to explore the role of MALAT1 in hyperglycemia-induced EMT and fibrosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We used db/db mouse and high glucose (HG)-stimulated HK-2 cells as in vivo and in vitro model of DN, respectively. qRT-PCR was used to measure levels of MALAT1 and miR-145. In addition, we validated interactions of MALAT1-miR-145 and miR-145-ZEB2 by dual luciferase reporter assays. Western blot was used to examine expressions of proteins involved in EMT and fibrosis.

RESULTS

MALAT1 was upregulated while miR-145 was downregulated in renal tissues of db/db mice. Consistently, hyperglycemia significantly increased the level of MALAT1 but decreased miR-145 expression in a time-dependent manner in HK-2 cells. Furthermore, miR-145 binds to both MALAT1 and ZEB2. Knockdown MALAT1 or ZEB2 inhibited HG-induced EMT and fibrosis, similar to miR-145 overexpression.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study is the first to show that MALAT1 and miR-145 regulate HG-induced EMT and fibrosis. Mechanistically, MALAT1 functions as a sponge RNA for miR-145 to derepress the expression of target gene ZEB2, thereby inducing EMT and fibrosis. These results provide a novel potential target for DN therapy in the future.

[Related factors on secondary drug resistance in HIV infected persons receiving antiretroviral therapy in Shandong province: a case-control study]

Objective: To explore the causes of secondary drug resistance among HIV infected persons who were receiving antiretroviral therapy in Shandong province, and provide evidence for the improvement of antiretroviral therapy strategy. Methods: A case-control study was designed with 1∶2 matching on case and control groups. Household and face-to-face interview were conducted in October, 2015. All the study subjects were screened from both the drug resistant database of antiretroviral therapy of Shandong provincial laboratory and national comprehensive HIV/AIDS database in Shandong. The sample size was estimated as 330 cases including 110 drug resistant and 220 non-drug resistant cases. Subjects were people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) aged 15 or older and received antiretroviral therapy for more than 6 months with records of virus load (VL). Subjects who presented VL above 1 000 copies/ml would receive drug resistance testing. Subjects who were confirmed resistant to with secondary drug, were selected as case group, the rest subjects with non-secondary drug resistance would form the control group. EpiData 3.1 software and SPSS 22.0 software were used to establish a database. Related influencing factors were analyzed with non- conditional stepwise logistic regression model. Results: A total of 288 cases were enrolled, including 103 in the case and 185 cases in the control groups, with average age as (37.62±1.06) years and (37.90±0.74) years old, respectively. Most of them were male, married/cohabitant, with education level of junior/senior high school or below and under Han nationality. Results from the multivariate logistic regression model showed that ORs (95%CI) of receiving antiretroviral therapy for 1-3 years, or more than 3 years were equal to 8.80 (3.69-21.00), 3.00 (1.20-7.53), compared with receiving antiretroviral therapy less than one year, respectively. OR (95%CI) of Among the PLWHA that with missing rate above 25.0% on medication, the OR appeared as 15.41(4.59-51.71), compared with not missing medication. OR (95%CI) among those who took the medicine themselves was 0.22 (0.07-0.74). Conclusions: Factors as duration of treatment, missing rate on medication and taking medicine by oneself were of influence on secondary drug resistance. Other factors as duration on antiretroviral therapy longer than 1 year, missing rate above 25.0% on medication, were related to the risk on secondary drug resistance. However, if the medicine was taken by oneself, it served as a protective factor for secondary drug resistance. It is necessary to strengthen the intervention and health education programs related to antiretroviral therapy.

Comparative Analysis of Diffusional Kurtosis Imaging, Diffusion Tensor Imaging, and Diffusion-Weighted Imaging in Grading and Assessing Cellular Proliferation of Meningiomas

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

An accurate evaluation of the World Health Organization grade and cellular proliferation is particularly important in meningiomas. Our aim was to prospectively evaluate and compare diffusional kurtosis imaging, DTI, and DWI metrics in determining the grade and cellular proliferation of meningiomas.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ninety-six consecutive patients with histopathologically confirmed meningiomas were included in this study. Mean kurtosis, radial kurtosis, axial kurtosis, fractional anisotropy, mean diffusivity, and ADC were semiautomatically obtained in the solid components of tumors. Each normalized diffusion value was compared between high-grade meningiomas and low-grade meningiomas using the Mann-Whitney U test. Receiver operating characteristic, multiple logistic regression, and Pearson correlation analysis were used for statistical evaluations.

RESULTS

Diffusional kurtosis imaging metrics (mean kurtosis, radial kurtosis, and axial kurtosis) were significantly higher in high-grade meningiomas than in low-grade meningiomas (P ≤ .001). Mean diffusivity and ADC were significantly lower in high-grade meningiomas than in low-grade meningiomas (P = .003 and .002). Mean kurtosis had significantly greater area the under curve values than mean diffusivity and fractional anisotropy in differentiating high-grade meningiomas from low-grade meningiomas (P = .038 and .002). Mean kurtosis was the only variable that could be used to independently differentiate high-grade meningiomas and low-grade meningiomas (P < .001). Significant correlations were found between the Ki-67 labeling index and kurtosis metrics (P < .001), as well as for mean diffusivity and ADC (P = .004, and .007).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with other diffusion metrics, mean kurtosis may serve as an optimal parameter for evaluating and predicting the meningioma grade. Moreover, diffusion metrics may potentially reflect cellular proliferation.

[Herpes simplex virus-2 infection and related factors among female drug abusers in the women's compulsory drug rehabilitation center of Shandong province]

Objective: This study aimed to understand the herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2) infection and related factors among female drug abusers in the women's compulsory drug rehabilitation center of Shandong province and to provide reference for the prevention and control of HSV-2 in these settings. Methods: We screened all of 451 female drug abusers in the women's compulsory drug rehabilitation centers in of Shandong province and conducted a study using both questionnaire investigation and serological tests for HSV-2, HIV and syphilis. We also used EpiData 3.1 software to establish a database and SPSS 20.0 software to conduct the χ(2) test and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results: A total of 451 female drug abusers were under study. We noticed that the rates for HSV-2 infection, HIV infection and syphilis infection appeared as 72.1% (325/451), 2.2% (10/451) and 33.5% (151/451) respectively. Results from univariate analysis showed that factors as: awareness on AIDS, having temporary sex partner after using the drug, having multiple sex partners after using the drug, providing commercial services or having temporary sex practice before being detained, with syphilis infection etc., were associated with HSV-2 infection. Data from the multivariate analysis showed that the OR (95%CI) value of HSV-2 infection was 2.90 (1.19-7.06) for those who providing commercial service, when comparing to those who did not. Compared to those who did not suffer from syphilis infection, the OR (95%CI) value of HSV-2 infection for those with syphilis infection was 2.75 (1.63-4.63). Conclusions: The rate of HSV-2 infection was high in the women's compulsory drug rehabilitation center of Shandong province. We should enhance measures and promote condom use to prevent from HSV-2 and other sexually transmitted diseases among them.

A new locus regulating MICALL2 expression was identified for association with executive inhibition in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Impaired executive inhibition is a core deficit of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which is a common childhood-onset psychiatric disorder with high heritability. In this study, we performed a two-stage genome-wide association study of executive inhibition in ADHD in Han Chinese. We used the Stroop color-word interference test to evaluate executive inhibition. After quality control, 780 samples with phenotype and covariate data were included in the discovery stage, whereas 922 samples were included in the replication stage. We identified one new significant locus at 7p22.3 for the Stroop word interference time (rs11514810, P=3.42E-09 for discovery, P=0.01176 for replication and combined P=5.249E-09). Regulatory feature analysis and expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) data showed that this locus contributes to MICALL2 expression in the human brain. Most genes in the network interacting with MICALL2 were associated with psychiatric disorders. Furthermore, hyperactive-impulsive-like behavior was induced by reducing the expression of the zebrafish gene that is homologous to MICALL2, which could be rescued by tomoxetine (atomoxetine), a clinical medication for ADHD. Our results suggested that MICALL2 is a new susceptibility gene for executive inhibition deficiency related to hyperactive-impulsive behavior in ADHD, further emphasizing the possible role of neurodevelopmental genes in the pathogenic mechanism of ADHD.

Pharmacogenomics study of thiazide diuretics and QT interval in multi-ethnic populations: the cohorts for heart and aging research in genomic epidemiology

Thiazide diuretics, commonly used antihypertensives, may cause QT interval (QT) prolongation, a risk factor for highly fatal and difficult to predict ventricular arrhythmias. We examined whether common single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) modified the association between thiazide use and QT or its component parts (QRS interval, JT interval) by performing ancestry-specific, trans-ethnic and cross-phenotype genome-wide analyses of European (66%), African American (15%) and Hispanic (19%) populations (N=78 199), leveraging longitudinal data, incorporating corrected standard errors to account for underestimation of interaction estimate variances and evaluating evidence for pathway enrichment. Although no loci achieved genome-wide significance (P<5 × 10-8), we found suggestive evidence (P<5 × 10-6) for SNPs modifying the thiazide-QT association at 22 loci, including ion transport loci (for example, NELL1, KCNQ3). The biologic plausibility of our suggestive results and simulations demonstrating modest power to detect interaction effects at genome-wide significant levels indicate that larger studies and innovative statistical methods are warranted in future efforts evaluating thiazide-SNP interactions.

Association between water fluoride and the level of children's intelligence: a dose-response meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Higher fluoride concentrations in water have inconsistently been associated with the levels of intelligence in children. The following study summarizes the available evidence regarding the strength of association between fluoridated water and children's intelligence.

STUDY DESIGN

Meta-analysis.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were systematically analyzed from November 2016. Observational studies that have reported on intelligence levels in relation to high and low water fluoride contents, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were included. Further, the results were pooled using inverse variance methods. The correlation between water fluoride concentration and intelligence level was assessed by a dose-response meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Twenty-six studies reporting data on 7258 children were included. The summary results indicated that high water fluoride exposure was associated with lower intelligence levels (standardized mean difference : -0.52; 95% CI: -0.62 to -0.42; P < 0.001). The findings from subgroup analyses were consistent with those from overall analysis. The dose-response meta-analysis suggested a significant association between water fluoride dosage and intelligence (P < 0.001), while increased water fluoride exposure was associated with reduced intelligence levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Greater exposure to high levels of fluoride in water was significantly associated with reduced levels of intelligence in children. Therefore, water quality and exposure to fluoride in water should be controlled in areas with high fluoride levels in water.

Comparative efficacy and toxicity of induction chemotherapy with concurrent stereotactic body radiotherapy and stereotactic body radiotherapy with subsequent chemotherapy in patients with clinical stage T1-3N0M0 non-small cell lung carcinoma

PURPOSE

We compared the clinical efficacy and toxicity of stereotactic body radiotherapy with induction chemotherapy and concurrent radiochemotherapy vs stereotactic body radiotherapy with subsequent chemotherapy in patients with clinical stage T1-3N0M0 non-small cell lung carcinoma.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 38 patients with c-stage T1-3N0M0 non-small cell lung carcinoma who received stereotactic body radiotherapy. All patients received six cycles of chemotherapy. Fifteen of the patients were treated with three cycles of induction chemotherapy, one cycle of concurrent radiochemotherapy, and then two cycles of consolidation chemotherapy, while 23 patients received Sequential Radiotherapy/Chemotherapy.

RESULTS

Patients in the induction chemotherapy group experienced a longer duration of esophagitis (median 2 vs 0, range 0-6 vs 0-3.6 weeks, p = 0.04). We divided the patients into two groups based on their median pre-treatment tumor volume (cm³): >32.11 and ≤32.11. The tumor response rate in patients with larger tumor volume was substantially higher in the induction chemotherapy group than in the Sequential Radiotherapy/Chemotherapy group (66.67 vs 40%). Among patients with pre-treatment tumor volume (cm³) >32.11, the median local progression-free survival (LPFS) in the induction chemotherapy group and Sequential Radiotherapy/Chemotherapy group was 18 months (range 7-72 months) and 11 months (range 6-53 months), respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

Simultaneous SBRT and chemotherapy can result in a longer duration of esophagitis. However, for patients with large tumor volume, ICT combined with concurrent radiochemotherapy may result in better local tumor response as well as longer LPFS and progression-free survival. To better elucidate the best treatment, further clinical trials are needed.

Early diagnosis of venous thromboembolism as a clinical primary symptom of occult cancer: Core proteins of a venous thrombus

Malignancy is one of the risk factors of venous thromboembolism (VTE). As a common accompanying factor of malignant tumors, almost 20% of idiopathic VTEs are identified in patients with occult types of cancer as the primary symptom. The type of internal association that exists between malignant tumors and VTE has not yet been determined. The present review discusses the following: i) Reversible combinations between core proteins of venous thrombi and their ligand proteins. With the condition of immune cell balancing function collapse, which is characterized as dysfunction immune cells and impaired immune functions, the human body loses the function of eliminating infectious/malignant cells quickly and effectively. Thus, integrins β2 and β3 on the membrane of platelets and white blood cells are activated to combine with fibrinogen ligands to form an intravenous mesh-like structure, which acts as an intravenous biological filter that prevents infectious/malignant cells from flowing back into the circulatory system. During the defense process, blood cells (mainly red blood cells) stagnate and fill the filter, which results in venous thrombotic diseases. ii) Tumor cells, which cannot be eliminated quickly, proliferate and invade; or ischemic necrosis destroys peripheral tissues and vessels (veins and arteries), resulting in the formation of a biological filter in injured veins. The filter is filled with stranded tumor cells, which prevents the hemorrhagic metastasis of malignant cells. The formation of an intravenous biological filter results from the transition of the body's own defense capabilities, which is also a physical/histopathological phenomenon. iii) An increase in the number of core proteins in a venous thrombus is a basic molecular step in the formation of intravenous biological filters, which is also defined as a marker of the newly initiated defensive barrier. Increased levels of integrins β1, β2 and β3 are useful in not only the specific diagnosis of VTE, but also in the early recognition of occult malignant tumors in idiopathic VTE patients.

Immune Cell Repertoire and Their Mediators in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction or Stable Angina Pectoris

Background: To evaluate the natural innate and adaptive immunity through gene expression and cytology levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), stable angina pectoris (SAP) and controls. Methods: 210 patients with AMI, 210 with SAP, and 250 clinical controls were recruited. Whole human genome microarray analysis was performed in 20 randomly chosen subjects per group were examined to detect the expressions of complement markers, natural killer cells, T cells and B cells. The quantity of these cells and related cytokines as well as immunoglobulin levels were measured in all subjects. Results: In AMI group, the mRNA expressions of late complement component, markers of natural killer cells, CD3+, CD8+ T cells and B cells were down-regulated, while those of early complement component and CD4+T cells were up-regulated (p<0.05). In both AMI and SAP patients, the quantity of natural killer cells, CD3+, CD8+ T cells, B cells, IgM and IgG were significantly lower than those of the controls. CD4+ T cells, CH50, C3, C4, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6 and IFN-γ were significantly higher (p<0.05). Conclusions: In AMI patients, both of gene expressions related to complement, natural killer cells, CD3+, CD8+ T cells, B cells and the quantity of these immune cells decreased while cell number reduced in SAP patients. Immune function in both AMI and SAP patients decreased especially in AMI patients with declined gene and protein levels. To improve the immune system is a potential target for medical interventions and prevention in AMI.

Characteristics of B cell‑associated gene expression in patients with coronary artery disease

The current study aimed to identify differentially expressed B cell‑associated genes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and observe the changes in B cell activation at different stages of coronary artery disease. Groups of patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and stable angina (SA), as well as healthy volunteers, were recruited into the study (n=20 per group). Whole human genome microarray analysis was performed to examine the expression of B cell‑associated genes among these three groups. The mRNA expression levels of 60 genes associated with B cell activity and regulation were measured using reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The mRNA expression of the B cell antigen receptor (BCR)‑associated genes, CD45, NFAM, SYK and LYN, were significantly upregulated in patients with AMI; however, FCRL3, CD79B, CD19, CD81, FYN, BLK, CD22 and CD5 mRNA expression levels were significantly downregulated, compared with patients in the SA and control group. The mRNA levels of the T‑independent B cell‑associated genes, CD16, CD32, LILRA1 and TLR9, were significantly increased in AMI patients compared with SA and control patients. The mRNA expression of genes associated with T‑dependent B cells were also measured: EMR2 and CD97 were statistically upregulated, whereas SLAMF1, LY9, CD28, CD43, CD72, ICOSL, PD1, CD40 and CD20 mRNAs were significantly downregulated in AMI group patients compared with the two other groups. Additionally the gene expression levels of B cell regulatory genes were measured. In patients with AMI, CR1, LILRB2, LILRB3 and VAV1 mRNA expression levels were statistically increased, whereas, CS1 and IL4I1 mRNAs were significantly reduced compared with the SA and control groups. There was no statistically significant difference in B cell‑associated gene expression levels between patients with SA and the control group. The present study identified the downregulation of genes associated with BCRs, B2 cells and B cell regulators in patients with AMI, indicating a weakened T cell‑B cell interaction and reduced B2 cell activation during AMI. Thus, improving B2 cell‑mediated humoral immunity may be a potential target for medical intervention in patients with AMI.

RNA-Seq analysis for the potential targets and molecular mechanisms of 17 β-estradiol in squamous cell lung carcinoma

The efficacy of 17 β-estradiol (E2) was valid in some cancers, while its effects on squamous cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) were still unclear. The aim of our study was to investigate the potential targets and molecular mechanisms of E2 in SCLC cells.Two RNA libraries from human lung carcinoma cells (SK-MES-1) with and without E2 treatment were constructed and sequenced. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between cells with or without E2 treatment were identified by cuffdiff software. Hierarchical Clustering Analysis (HCA) was performed for displaying gene expression changes and classification. Furthermore, enrichment analyses of Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway and Gene Ontology Biological Process (GO BP) terms were performed through DAVID. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed through STRING. Additionally, differentially expressed lncRNAs were also selected by cuffdiff software.Total 129 DEGs including 58 up- and 71 down- regulated genes were obtained. Cancer-related pathways including small cell lung cancer, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and pathways in cancer and biological processes including regulation of phosphorus metabolic process, protein localization and nucleus organization were enriched. The PPI network with 113 nodes and 312 edges was constructed. CASP3, ITGA2, COL4A6, PML and CDC25B were identified as hub nodes which had more interactions with others in the PPI network. Furthermore, eight up-regulated and ten down-regulated lncRNAs were selected.CASP3, ITGA2 and Lnc-DLK1-4:31 (one of down-regulated lncRNAs) might play pivotal roles in E2 treated SCNC cells by influencing cell apoptosis, angiogenesis and cell invasion respectively.

Genetic parameters and genetic correlations among triacylglycerol and phospholipid fractions in Angus cattle

The objective of this study was to estimate genetic parameters for intramuscular fatty acids from triacylglycerol (TAG) and phospholipid (PL) fractions in beef LM tissue. Longissimus muscle samples were obtained from 1,833 Angus cattle to determine the intramuscular fatty acid composition for 31 lipids and lipid classes from TAG and PL fractions and were classified by structure into saturated (SFA), monounsaturated (MUFA), polyunsaturated (PUFA), omega-3 (n-3), and omega-6 (n-6) fatty acids. An atherogenic index (AI) was also determined as a measure of the unsaturated fatty acid to SFA ratio. Restricted maximum likelihood methods combined with pedigree data were used to estimate variance components with the WOMBAT software package. Heritability estimates ranged from 0.00 to 0.63 for the major classes of fatty acids. Heritability estimates differed between the TAG and PL fractions, with higher estimates for TAG up to 0.64 and lower estimates for PL that ranged from 0.00 to 0.14. Phenotypic and genetic correlations among individual fatty acids were determined for the TAG fraction as well as among carcass traits, including rib eye area, numerical marbling score, yield grade, ether fat, and Warner-Bratzler shear force value. Strong negative or positive genetic correlations were observed among individual fatty acids in the TAG fraction, which ranged from -0.99 to 0.97 ( < 0.05). Moderate correlations between carcass traits and fatty acids from the TAG fraction ranged from -0.43 to 0.32 ( < 0.05). These results indicate that fatty acids prominent in beef tissues show significant genetic variation as well as genetic relationships with carcass traits.

The origin and onset of acute venous thrombus

Under the condition of immune cell balancing function collapse, acute venous thrombosis originates from intravenous immune adhesive inflammations triggered by cells which are infected by foreign pathogenic microorganism and malignant cells. With the condition of immune cell balancing function collapse, the human body lost the function of clearing intravenous foreign pathogenic microorganism and malignant cells timely and effectively. Thus, integrins β2 and β3 on the membrane of white blood cells and platelets are activated to combine with the ligand fibrinogen into a reversible mesh-like structure, which is like the intravenous biological filter and acts as physical defense of the human body to prevent the cells which are infected by foreign pathogenic microorganism and malignant cells in the distal veins from flowing back to the whole body. Meanwhile, blood cells mainly red blood cells stagnate and fulfill the filter, which blocks the blood flow in the local veins and thus results in venous thrombotic diseases. People with collapsed immune cell balancing functions are the certain groups of people who will develop venous thromboembolism. Anyone who had venous thromboembolism indicates alloantigen cells in the veins, which are mainly pathogenic microorganism infected cells and malignant cells and trigger the onset of venous thromboembolism. Only under the condition of immune cell balancing function collapse, the risk factors, such as advanced age, infection, trauma, surgery, autoimmune disease, pregnancy as well as long trip syndrome, could cause venous thromboembolism.

Differential loss of natural killer cell activity in patients with acute myocardial infarction and stable angina pectoris

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the activity of natural killer cells through their inhibitory and activating receptors and quantity in peripheral blood mononuclear cells extracted from patients with acute myocardial infarction, stable angina pectoris and the controls.

METHODS

100 patients with myocardial infarction, 100 with stable angina, and 20 healthy volunteers were recruited into the study. 20 randomly chosen people per group were examined for the whole human genome microarray analysis to detect the gene expressions of all 40 inhibitory and activating natural killer cell receptors. Flow cytometry analysis was applied to all 200 patients to measure the quantity of natural killer cells.

RESULTS

In myocardial infarction group, the mRNA expressions of six inhibitory receptors KIR2DL2, KIR3DL3, CD94, NKG2A, KLRB1, KLRG1, and eight activating receptors KIR2DS3, KIR2DS5, NKp30, NTB-A, CRACC, CD2, CD7 and CD96 were significantly down-regulated (P<0.05) compared with both angina patients and the controls. There was no statistical difference in receptor expressions between angina patients and control group. The quantity of natural killer cells was significantly decreased in both infarction and angina patients compared with normal range (P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The significant mRNAs down-regulation of several receptors in myocardial infarction group and reduction in the quantity of natural killer cells in both myocardial infarction and angina patients showed a quantitative loss and dysfunction of natural killer cells in myocardial infarction patients.

Comparison of cytokine expressions in acute myocardial infarction and stable angina stages of coronary artery disease

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the differential gene expression of cytokines and compare their impacts on the immune functions among the acute myocardial infarction patients (AMI), the stable angina patients (SA) and the controls.

METHODS

20 patients with AMI, 20 patients with SA and 20 healthy volunteers were recruited into the study. Whole human genome microarray analysis was used to detect the gene expression differences in interferons, interleukins, chemokines, tumor necrosis factors and associated receptors in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) among three groups.

RESULTS

Compared with SA patients and the controls respectively, in AMI patients, IFNα2, IFNαR1, IFNαR2, IFNγR1, IFNγR2, L1β, IL16, IL18, Cxcl1, Cxcl2, Cxcl6, CxcR2, CxcR4, LIGHT, TNFR1, LT-βR, CD137, TRAILR, and TWEAKR mRNA expressions were significantly up-regulated (P<0.05), while Ccl5, Ccl24, Ccl28, CcR5, TWEAK, CD40, CD27, and BAFFR mRNA expressions were significantly down-regulated (P<0.05). But, there was no significant difference in cytokine expression between the SA patients and the controls.

CONCLUSION

In AMI patients, mRNA expression levels of cytokines were imbalanced, indicating the dysfunction of the immune system. Together with no significant change of cytokines was observed between the SA and controls, showing the different cytokine related immune activity in the AMI and SA patients.

Differential expression of T cell-related genes in AMI and SA stages of coronary artery disease

OBJECTIVE

To identify differentially expressed T cells-related genes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and compare their differences in T cell activation and subset functions in different stages of coronary atherosclerosis disease (CAD).

METHODS

20 patients with acute myocardial infarction patients (AMI), 20 patients with stable angina pectoris (SA) and 20 healthy volunteers were recruited into the study. Whole human genome microarray analysis was used to detect the expression of T cell related genes among three groups.

RESULTS

mRNA expression of 68 genes involved in T cell was detected. 1) Antigen recognition: in the AMI patients 12 genes were down-regulated and 9 were significantly down-regulated among all 13 genes, compared with those of the SA and the control group, respectively. 2) Co-stimulators and regulators of T cell activation: among 16 genes in the AMI patients, 15 genes were lower and 8 were significantly lower than the other two groups. 3) T cell subsets, CTL: all 11 genes in the AMI patients were down-regulated, particularly GZMM and CASP8 were significantly down-regulated compared with the SA patients and controls. Th1/Th2: in the AMI patients, gene expressions including IL1 and IL18 were significantly higher, whereas GATA3 mRNA was significantly lower than those in other two groups. Th17/Treg: in the AMI group, RORC and CCR6 mRNAs were significantly down-regulated compared with the control group, while CD25 and CD127 expressions were significantly lower than SA group. There was no difference in T cell related genes between the SA patients and the controls.

CONCLUSIONS

In the AMI patients, the mRNA expression of T cell antigen recognition, activation and subset functions was imbalanced or decreased, indicating the dysfunction of cellular immunity in patients with AMI. Then improving T cell mediated cellular immunity may be considered as a potential target for medical interventions in the patients with AMI.

Sire breed effect on beef longissimus mineral concentrations and their relationships with carcass and palatability traits

The objective of this study was to evaluate sire breed effect on mineral concentration in beef longissimus thoracis (LT) and investigate the correlations between beef mineral concentrations and carcass and palatability traits. Steer progeny (N=246) from the Germplasm Evaluation project-Cycle VIII were used in this study. In addition to carcass traits, LT was evaluated for mineral concentrations, Warner-Bratzler shear force, and palatability traits. A mixed linear model estimated breed effects on mineral concentrations. No significant sire breed (P≥0.43) or dam breed (P≥0.20) effects were identified for mineral concentrations. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated among mineral concentrations, carcass, and sensory traits. Zinc concentration was positively correlated (P≤0.05) with total iron (r=0.14), heme iron (r=0.13), and magnesium (r=0.19). Significant (P<0.05) correlations were identified between non-heme or heme iron and most traits in this study. Magnesium concentration was correlated with all carcass and palatability traits.

Internal relationship between symptomatic venous thromboembolism and risk factors: up-regulation of integrin β1, β2 and β3 levels

BACKGROUND

To compare different expression of core proteins among venous thromboembolism (VTE) and those with risk factor groups and analyze the relative risk for VTE after integrating integrin β1, β2 and β3 expression.

METHODS

A total of 1006 subjects were recruited and divided into VTE group, risk factor groups and control (non- risk factor) group. Flow cytometry was performed to detect the expression of integrin β1, β2 and β3. The relative risk for VTE was evaluated with independent, parallel and serial methods.

RESULTS

The expression of integrin β1 increased markedly in VTE patients, and those with risk factors (acute infection, malignancy, and autoimmune diseases), respectively (P < 0.001 or 0.01). The expression of integrin β1 in trauma/surgery group was not significantly different with control group (P > 0.05). The expression of integrin β2 or β3 significantly increased in VTE group, but that in risk factor groups was not significantly increased (P > 0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed the trauma/surgery groups had no significantly increased risk for VTE.

CONCLUSIONS

VTE group patients have significantly increased expression of integrin β1, β2 and β3, and risk factor groups (acute infection, malignancy and autoimmune disease) have significantly increased expression of integrin β1. The significant increase in integrin β2, β3 expression is a marker differentiating of VTE group patients with other risk factor groups. Trauma/surgery group has no increased expression of integrin β1, β2 and β3 as other risk factors. Thus, that trauma/surgery may be not the "true" risk factor for VTE.

Increased expressions of integrin subunit β1, β2 and β3 in patients with cancer ------correlation analysis between risk factors of VTE and expression of core proteins

OBJECTIVE

Cancer is one of the most common risk factor of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Our previous studies have shown that integrin subunits β1, β2 and β3 were the core proteins of venous thrombi and potential useful biomarker of VTE. This study aimed to explore the expression status of core proteins (integrin subunits β1, β2 and β3) in cancer patients.

METHODS

This is a case-control study. A total of 144 inpatients (54 females) with clinically proven cancers were recruited into this study, meanwhile 200 inpatients without cancer matched in sex and age were recruited as control group. Flow cytometry was done to measure the expressions of blood integrin β1, β2, β3 and cellular immunity related variables (CD3, CD4, CD8, CD4/CD8, CD16CD56 and CD19). The association degree between increased core proteins and cancers was analyzed by calculating the relative risk (RR).

RESULTS

The expression of integrin β1 and β3 were markedly increased in patients with cancer (P=0.001 and 0.008). Integrin β2 was also mildly increased in patients with cancer (P=0.274). The relative risk ratio (RR) of increased integrin β1, β2 and β3 in cancer patients was 1.655 (95% CI: 1.321-2.074, P=0.000), 1.314 (95% CI: 1.052-1.642, P=0.021) and 1.852, (95% CI: 1.097-3.126, P=0.028), respectively. Combined analysis with integrin β1, β2 and β3 showed that the relative risk ratio (RR) of increased in cancer patients was 4.895 (95% CI: 1.645-14.563, P=0.002). CD3, CD4, CD4/CD8 and CD19 were significantly decreased (P=0.004, P=0.000, P=0.000, P=0.000, respectively) in patients with cancer, while CD8 and CD16CD56 were markedly increased in cancer patients (P=0.005, P=0.035).

CONCLUSIONS

As the core proteins of venous thrombi, integrin β1 and β3 were markedly increased expression in patients with cancer, which maybe explain the increased risk of VTE in cancer patients. A weakened or disordered immune system might be the basis of VTE in condition.

Differential expression of 5-HT-related genes in symptomatic pulmonary embolism patients

OBJECTIVE

Whole human genome oligo microarrays were employed to systematically investigate the mRNA expression profile of 5-HT synthetase, transporter, receptor, and factors in 5-HT signaling pathway in peripheral blood karyocytes from pulmonary embolism (PE) patients.

METHODS

A total of 20 PE patients and 20 healthy subjects matched in gender and age were recruited. The human genome microarrays were performed to detect the mRNA expression profile of 5-HT synthetase, transporter, receptor, and factors in 5-HT signal pathway of two groups. The random variance model corrected t-test was used for analysis.

RESULTS

Our results showed (1) tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH1)-related gene expression was markedly down-regulated in PE patients (P < 0.01); (2) monoamine oxidases (MAO)-related gene (MAOB) expression was significantly up-regulated in PE patients (P < 0.01); (3) the expression of 17 genes of 7 5-HT receptors showed a down-regulated tendency in PE patients, and significant difference was observed in the expression of HTR1E, HTR3B, HTR4 and HTR5A between them (P < 0.05); (4) the expression of DalDAG-GEF I, Tubby, PKA and EPAC in 5-HT signal pathways was dramatically up-regulated in PE patients (P < 0.05); the expression of SPA1, RIAM, RAPL, Talin, PKC, PLC and Pyk2 was remarkably up-regulated in PE patients (P < 0.05); (5) the expression of integrin genes ITGA2B, ITGB1 and ITGB3 was significantly up-regulated in PE patients (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In PE patients, the expression of TPH1 and HTR4 was down-regulated as a negative feedback; the MAOB expression was up-regulated. Consistent with the expression of 5-HTR1E and 5-HTR4 and the abnormally activated Tubby, the expression of integrins in platelets was activated.

Increased Expressions of Integrin Subunit β1, β2 and β3 in Patients with Acute Infection

OBJECTIVE

Our previous studies have shown that integrin subunits β1, β2 and β3 were the core proteins of venous thrombi and potential useful biomarker of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Patients with acute infection have a high risk of VTE. In this study we explored that is there any relevance between core proteins and acute infection.

METHODS

A total of 230 patients (112 females) with clinically proven acute infection in the emergency unit were recruited into this study, meanwhile 230 patients without acute infection matched in sex and age were recruited as control group. Flow cytometry was done to measure the expressions of blood integrin β1, β2, β3 and cellular immunity (CD3, CD4, CD8, CD4/CD8, CD16CD56 and CD19). The association degree between increased core proteins and acute infection was analyzed by calculating the relative risk (RR).

RESULTS

The expression of integrin β1, β2 and β3 was markedly increased in patients with acute infection (P=0.000, 0.000 and 0.015, respectively). The relative risk ratio (RR) of increased integrin β1, β2 and β3 in acute infection patients was 1.424 (95%CI: 1.156-1.755, P=0.001), 1.535 (95%CI: 1.263-1.865, P=0.000) and 1.20 (95%CI: 0.947-1.521, P=0.148), respectively. Combined integrin β1, β2 and β3 analysis showed that the relative risk ratio (RR) of increased in patients with acute infection was 2.962 (95%CI: 1.621-5.410, P=0.001), and this relative risk (RR) rise to 3.176 (95%CI: 1.730-5.829, P=0.000) in patients with respiratory tract infection (RTI).

CONCLUSION

As the core proteins of venous thrombi, integrinβ1, β2 and β3 were markedly increased expression in patients with acute infection, which maybe explain the increased risk of VTE in acute infection patients. A weakened immune system could be the basic condition of VTE occurrence.

Analysis of the protein-protein interaction networks of differentially expressed genes in pulmonary embolism

The aim of the present study was to explore the function and interaction of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in pulmonary embolism (PE). The gene expression profile GSE13535, was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The DEGs 2 and 18 h post-PE initiation were identified using the affy package in R software. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways of the DEGs were analyzed using Database for Annotation Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) online analytical tools. In addition, protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks of the DEGs were constructed using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins. The PPI network at 18 h was modularized using ClusterONE, and a functional enrichment analysis of the DEGs in the top three modules was performed with DAVID. Overall, 80 and 346 DEGs were identified 2 and 18 h after PE initiation, respectively. The KEGG pathways, including chemokine signaling and toll-like receptor signaling, were shown to be significantly enriched. The five highest degree nodes in the PPI networks at 2 or 18 h were screened. The module analysis of the PPI network at 18 h revealed 11 hub nodes. A Gene Ontology terms analysis demonstrated that the DEGs in the top three modules were associated with the inflammatory, defense and immune responses. The results of the present study suggest that the DEGs identified, including chemokine-related genes TFPI2 and TNF, may be potential target genes for the treatment of PE. The chemokine signaling pathway, inflammatory response and immune response were explored, and it may be suggested that these pathways have important roles in PE.

Increased expressions of integrin subunit β1, β2 and β3 in patients with venous thromboembolism: new markers for venous thromboembolism

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the core proteins (integrin subunits β1, β2 and β3) in the acute venous thrombi and validate the specificity and sensitivity of increased expression of integrin subunits β1, β2 and β3 in patients with venous thromboembolism.

METHODS

A total of 120 patients (73 females) with clinically proven acute VTE and aged between 24-90 years, and 120 non-VTE patients and healthy controls receiving physical examination matched in the sex and age were recruited. Flow cytometry was done to measure the expressions of blood integrin β1, β2 and β3. The receiver-operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was conducted to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of integrin β1, β2 and β3.

RESULTS

The median levels of integrin β1, β2 and β3 were significantly higher in VTE patients than in non-VTE patients (P=0.000, 0.000 and 0.000, respectively) and healthy controls (P=0.000, 0.000 and 0.000, respectively). The ROC curves showed that integrin β1, β2 and β3 were specific diagnostic predictors of VTE with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.870, 0.821, and 0.731, respectively. When three integrins were combined for diagnosis, the AUC of ROC curve was 0.916, and the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were 84.6%, 90.8%, 81.7% and 92.0%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The increased integrin β1, β2 and β3, as the core protein of venous thrombosis, have relatively high specificity and sensitivity for VTE and thus may serve as useful new biomarkers for the diagnoses of VTE.

Relationship of high CH50 level and interruption of cascade reaction of complement mRNA expression in acute venous thromboembolism patients

In patients with pulmonary embolism (PE), forepart components of complements were activated. However there are interruption/decrease of cascade reaction and cytolytic effects in complement system. This study detected CRP, CH50, C3 and C4 levels in patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE) and compare with the imbalance of complement associated gene mRNA expression in PE patients. There was significant increase of CH50 in acute VTE patients. Even though CH50 increased significantly in acute VTE patients and had a relatively high sensitivity, cytolytic effects of complements might decrease, based on the genomics results of complement cascade reactions imbalance/interruption and increased total complements in VTE patients.

Analysis of genetic relationships and identification of lily cultivars based on inter-simple sequence repeat markers

Inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers were used to discriminate 62 lily cultivars of 5 hybrid series. Eight ISSR primers generated 104 bands in total, which all showed 100% polymorphism, and an average of 13 bands were amplified by each primer. Two software packages, POPGENE 1.32 and NTSYSpc 2.1, were used to analyze the data matrix. Our results showed that the observed number of alleles (NA), effective number of alleles (NE), Nei's genetic diversity (H), and Shannon's information index (I) were 1.9630, 1.4179, 0.2606, and 0.4080, respectively. The highest genetic similarity (0.9601) was observed between the Oriental x Trumpet and Oriental lilies, which indicated that the two hybrids had a close genetic relationship. An unweighted pair-group method with arithmetic means dendrogram showed that the 62 lily cultivars clustered into two discrete groups. The first group included the Oriental and OT cultivars, while the Asiatic, LA, and Longiflorum lilies were placed in the second cluster. The distribution of individuals in the principal component analysis was consistent with the clustering of the dendrogram. Fingerprints of all lily cultivars built from 8 primers could be separated completely. This study confirmed the effect and efficiency of ISSR identification in lily cultivars.

Polymorphisms in calpastatin and mu-calpain genes are associated with beef iron content

The objective of this study was to assess the association of markers in the calpastatin and mu-calpain loci with iron in beef cattle muscle. The population consisted of 259 cross-bred steers from Beefmaster, Brangus, Bonsmara, Romosinuano, Hereford and Angus sires. Total iron and heme iron concentrations were measured. Markers in the calpastatin (referred to as CAST) and mu-calpain (referred to as CAPN4751) genes were used to assess their association with iron levels. The mean and standard error for iron and heme iron content in the population was 35.6 ± 1.3 μg and 27.1 ± 1.4 μg respectively. Significant associations (P < 0.01) of markers were observed for both iron and heme iron content. For CAST, animals with the CC genotype had higher levels of iron and heme iron in longissimus dorsi muscle. For CAPN4751, individuals with the TT genotype had higher concentrations of iron and heme iron than did animals with the CC and CT genotypes. Genotypes known to be associated with tougher meat were associated with higher levels of iron concentration.

Differential expression of leukocyte β2 integrin signal transduction‑associated genes in patients with symptomatic pulmonary embolism

Whole human genome oligo microarrays were employed to systematically investigate the differential expression characteristics of associated mRNAs, which were found in the signal transduction pathway of β2 integrins in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) between patients with symptomatic pulmonary embolism (PE) and controls. A total of 20 cases of PE patients and twenty gender‑ and age‑matched controls were recruited for the study. Human cDNA microarray analysis was used to detect the differences in mRNA expression between the two groups and a random variance model corrected t‑test was used to analyze the statistical data. A total of 80 associated mRNAs were detected. The mRNA expression of chemokines, ligands, inside‑out and outside‑in signaling pathway‑associated proteins were upregulated significantly in the PE group, compared with the controls. In five subunit‑associated mRNAs, the mRNA expression of ITGAL, ITGAM, ITGAX and ITGB2, which encode for the subunits of αL, αM, αX and β2, were upregulated in the PE group and the differences, with the exception of ITGB2, were statistically significant (P<0.05). The mRNA expression of ITGAD was downregulated; however, there was no significant difference (P>0.05). The expression of Fgr mRNA was significantly downregulated (P<0.01). Thus, in PE patients, bilateral signal transduction pathways of β2 integrins in neutrophils and monocytes were activated, enhancing innate immunity.

Characteristics of the complement system gene expression deficiency in patients with symptomatic pulmonary embolism

INTRODUCTION

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a disease with a high mortality and morbidity rate, and the pathogenesis of PE remains still unclear. We aimed to investigate the gene expression differences of the complement system in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with symptomatic PE and controls.

METHODS

Twenty cases of PE patients and twenty sex and age matched controls were recruited into the study. Human cDNA microarray analysis was used to detect the gene expression difference of the complement system between the two groups.

RESULTS

1). Expression of twenty-one genes encoding complement components was detected. In PE patients, expression of the genes encoding C1qα, C1qβ, C4b, C5 and Factor P was significantly greater (P<0.05) than controls, while C6, C7, C9, mannose-binding lectin (MBL) and mannan-binding lectin serine peptidase 1 (MASP1) mRNAs were lower (P<0.05) than controls. 2). Expression of seven genes encoding complement receptors was examined. In PE patients, CR1, integrin αM, integrin αX and C5aR mRNAs were significantly up-regulated (P<0.01) compared with controls. 3). Seven genes encoding complement regulators were examined. The mRNA expression of CD59 and CD55 was significantly up-regulated (P<0.05), whereas Factor I mRNA was significantly down-regulated (P<0.05) in PE patients than controls.

CONCLUSIONS

In PE patients, the mRNA expressions of complement components, receptors and regulators were unbalanced, suggesting dysfunction and/or deficiency of the complement system, which leads to decreased function of MAC-induced cell lysis in PE patients finally.

Genetic parameters for concentrations of minerals in longissimus muscle and their associations with palatability traits in Angus cattle

The objective of this study was to estimate genetic parameters for concentrations of minerals in LM and to evaluate their associations with beef palatability traits. Samples of LM from 2,285 Angus cattle were obtained and fabricated into steaks for analysis of mineral concentrations and for trained sensory panel assessments. Nine minerals, including calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and zinc, were quantified. Restricted maximum likelihood procedures were used to obtain estimates of variance and covariance components under a multiple-trait animal model. Estimates of heritability for mineral concentrations in LM varied from 0.01 to 0.54. Iron and sodium were highly and moderately heritable, respectively, whereas the other minerals were lowly heritable except for calcium, copper, and manganese, which exhibited no genetic variation. Strong positive genetic correlations existed between iron and zinc (0.49, P < 0.05), between magnesium and phosphorus (0.88, P < 0.05), between magnesium and sodium (0.68, P < 0.05), and between phosphorus and potassium (0.69, P < 0.05). Overall tenderness assessed by trained sensory panelists was positively associated with manganese, potassium, and sodium and negatively associated with phosphorus and zinc concentrations (P < 0.05). Juiciness assessed by trained sensory panelists was negatively associated with magnesium and positively associated with manganese and sodium concentrations (P < 0.05). Livery or metallic flavor was not associated with any of the minerals (P > 0.05). Beefy flavor was positively associated with calcium, iron, and zinc and negatively associated with sodium concentration, whereas a painty or fishy flavor was positively associated with sodium and negatively associated with calcium and potassium concentrations (P < 0.05). Beef is a major contributor of iron and zinc in the human diet, and these results demonstrate sufficient genetic variation for these traits to be improved through marker-assisted selection programs without compromising beef palatability.

mRNA expression of interleukins and Th1/Th2 imbalance in patients with pulmonary embolism

Few studies have investigated the changes of Th1- and Th2-type cytokines in pulmonary embolism (PE) patients. In this study, the gene expression of interleukins and the balance of Th1- and Th2-type cytokines in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of PE patients and controls were investigated. A total of 20 PE patients and 20 gender- and age-matched controls were included in the study. Human cDNA microarray analysis was used to detect the differences in cytokine gene expression between the two groups and a random variance model corrected t-test was used to analyze the statistical data. In comparison with the controls, 12 genes were found to be downregulated, specifically IL1A, IL9, IL17B, IL19, IL23A, IL25 (p<0.05), IL2, IL3, IL13, IL22, IL24 and IL31 (p<0.01), and 2 genes were found to be upregulated, specifically IL10 and IL28A, in the PE patients. The expression levels of IFN-γ and IL2 mRNA in the PE patients were significantly lower than those in the control group (p<0.01), while the IL20 mRNA expression levels were significantly upregulated (p<0.01). We conclude that there are significant differences in interleukin gene expression between the PE patients and the control group. A shift of the Th1/Th2 balance comprising enhanced Th2 activity and reduced Th1 activity in the PE patients is also demonstrated.