Combination therapy with oncolytic virus and T cells or mRNA vaccine amplifies antitumor effects

Antitumor therapies based on adoptively transferred T cells or oncolytic viruses have made significant progress in recent years, but the limited efficiency of their infiltration into solid tumors makes it difficult to achieve desired antitumor effects when used alone. In this study, an oncolytic virus (rVSV-LCMVG) that is not prone to induce virus-neutralizing antibodies was designed and combined with adoptively transferred T cells. By transforming the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment into an immunosensitive one, in B16 tumor-bearing mice, combination therapy showed superior antitumor effects than monotherapy. This occurred whether the OV was administered intratumorally or intravenously. Combination therapy significantly increased cytokine and chemokine levels within tumors and recruited CD8+ T cells to the TME to trigger antitumor immune responses. Pretreatment with adoptively transferred T cells and subsequent oncolytic virotherapy sensitizes refractory tumors by boosting T-cell recruitment, down-regulating the expression of PD-1, and restoring effector T-cell function. To offer a combination therapy with greater translational value, mRNA vaccines were introduced to induce tumor-specific T cells instead of adoptively transferred T cells. The combination of OVs and mRNA vaccine also displays a significant reduction in tumor burden and prolonged survival. This study proposed a rational combination therapy of OVs with adoptive T-cell transfer or mRNA vaccines encoding tumor-associated antigens, in terms of synergistic efficacy and mechanism.

Therapeutic vaccine-induced plasma cell differentiation is defective in the presence of persistently high HBsAg levels

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Mechanisms behind the impaired response of antigen-specific B cells to therapeutic vaccination in chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remain unclear. The development of vaccines or strategies to overcome this obstacle is vital for advancing the management of chronic hepatitis B.

METHODS

A mouse model, denominated as E6F6-B, was engineered to feature a knock-in of a B-cell receptor (BCR) that specifically recognizes HBsAg. This model served as a valuable tool for investigating the temporal and spatial dynamics of humoral responses following therapeutic vaccination under continuous antigen exposure. Using a suite of immunological techniques, we elucidated the differentiation trajectory of HBsAg-specific B cells post-therapeutic vaccination in HBV carrier mice.

RESULTS

Utilizing the E6F6-B transfer model, we observed a marked decline in antibody-secreting cells 2 weeks after vaccination. A dysfunctional and atypical pre-plasma cell population (BLIMP-1+ IRF4+ CD40- CD138- BCMA-) emerged, manifested by sustained BCR signaling. By deploying an antibody to purge persistent HBsAg, we effectively prompted the therapeutic vaccine to provoke conventional plasma cell differentiation. This resulted in an enhanced anti-HBs antibody response and facilitated HBsAg clearance.

CONCLUSIONS

Sustained high levels of HBsAg limit the ability of therapeutic hepatitis B vaccines to induce the canonical plasma cell differentiation necessary for anti-HBs antibody production. Employing a strategy combining antibodies with vaccines can surmount this altered humoral response associated with atypical pre-plasma cells, leading to improved therapeutic efficacy in HBV carrier mice.

IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS

Therapeutic vaccines aimed at combatting HBV encounter suboptimal humoral responses in clinical settings, and the mechanisms impeding their effectiveness have remained obscure. Our research, utilizing the innovative E6F6-B mouse transfer model, reveals that the persistence of HBsAg can lead to the emergence of an atypical pre-plasma cell population, which proves to be relevant to the potency of therapeutic HBV vaccines. Targeting the aberrant differentiation process of these atypical pre-plasma cells stands out as a critical strategy to amplify the humoral response elicited by HBV therapeutic vaccines in carrier mouse models. This discovery suggests a compelling avenue for further study in the context of human chronic hepatitis B. Encouragingly, our findings indicate that synergistic therapy combining HBV-specific antibodies with vaccines offers a promising approach that could significantly advance the pursuit of a functional cure for HBV.

Swine pseudorabies virus attenuated vaccine reprograms the kidney cancer tumor microenvironment and synergizes with PD-1 blockade

The global incidence rate of kidney cancer (KC) has been steadily increasing over the past 30 years. With the aging global population, kidney cancer has become an escalating concern that necessitates vigilant surveillance. Nowadays, surgical intervention remains the optimal therapeutic approach for kidney cancer, while the availability of efficacious treatments for advanced tumors remains limited. Oncolytic viruses, an emerging form of immunotherapy, have demonstrated encouraging anti-neoplastic properties and are progressively garnering public acceptance. However, research on oncolytic viruses in kidney cancer is relatively limited. Furthermore, given the high complexity and heterogeneity of kidney cancer, it is crucial to identify an optimal oncolytic virus agent that is better suited for its treatment. The present study investigates the oncolytic activity of the Pseudorabies virus live attenuated vaccine (PRV-LAV) against KC. The findings clearly demonstrate that PRV-LAV exhibits robust oncolytic activity targeting KC cell lines. Furthermore, the therapeutic efficacy of PRV-LAV was confirmed in both a subcutaneous tumor-bearing nude mouse model and a syngeneic mouse model of KC. Combined RNA-seq analysis and flow cytometry revealed that PRV-LAV treatment substantially enhances the infiltration of a diverse range of lymphocytes, including T cells, B cells, macrophages, and NK cells. Additionally, PRV-LAV treatment enhances T cell activation and exerts antitumor effects. Importantly, the combination of PRV-LAV with anti-PD-1 antibodies, an approved drug for KC treatment, synergistically enhances the efficacy against KC. Overall, the discovery of PRV-LAV as an effective oncolytic virus holds significant importance for improving the treatment efficacy and survival rates of KC patients.

Micronanoparticled risedronate exhibits potent vaccine adjuvant effects

Micro/Nano-scale particles are widely used as vaccine adjuvants to enhance immune response and improve antigen stability. While aluminum salt is one of the most common adjuvants approved for human use, its immunostimulatory capacity is suboptimal. In this study, we modified risedronate, an immunostimulant and anti-osteoporotic drug, to create zinc salt particle-based risedronate (Zn-RS), also termed particulate risedronate. Compared to soluble risedronate, micronanoparticled Zn-RS adjuvant demonstrated increased recruitment of innate cells, enhanced antigen uptake locally, and a similar antigen depot effect as aluminum salt. Furthermore, Zn-RS adjuvant directly and quickly stimulated immune cells, accelerated the formulation of germinal centers in lymph nodes, and facilitated the rapid production of antibodies. Importantly, Zn-RS adjuvant exhibited superior performance in both young and aged mice, effectively protecting against respiratory diseases such as SARS-CoV-2 challenge. Consequently, particulate risedronate showed great potential as an immune-enhancing vaccine adjuvant, particularly beneficial for vaccines targeting the susceptible elderly.

The potential of swine pseudorabies virus attenuated vaccine for oncolytic therapy against malignant tumors

BACKGROUND

Oncolytic viruses are now well recognized as potential immunotherapeutic agents against cancer. However, the first FDA-approved oncolytic herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), T-VEC, showed limited benefits in some patients in clinical trials. Thus, the identification of novel oncolytic viruses that can strengthen oncolytic virus therapy is warranted. Here, we identified a live-attenuated swine pseudorabies virus (PRV-LAV) as a promising oncolytic agent with broad-spectrum antitumor activity in vitro and in vivo.

METHODS

PRV cytotoxicity against tumor cells and normal cells was tested in vitro using a CCK8 cell viability assay. A cell kinase inhibitor library was used to screen for key targets that affect the proliferation of PRV-LAV. The potential therapeutic efficacy of PRV-LAV was tested against syngeneic tumors in immunocompetent mice, and against subcutaneous xenografts of human cancer cell lines in nude mice. Cytometry by time of flight (CyTOF) and flow cytometry were used to uncover the immunological mechanism of PRV-LAV treatment in regulating the tumor immune microenvironment.

RESULTS

Through various tumor-specific analyses, we show that PRV-LAV infects cancer cells via the NRP1/EGFR signaling pathway, which is commonly overexpressed in cancer. Further, we show that PRV-LAV kills cancer cells by inducing endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Moreover, PRV-LAV is responsible for reprogramming the tumor microenvironment from immunologically naïve ("cold") to inflamed ("hot"), thereby increasing immune cell infiltration and restoring CD8+ T cell function against cancer. When delivered in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), the anti-tumor response is augmented, suggestive of synergistic activity.

CONCLUSIONS

PRV-LAV can infect cancer cells via NRP1/EGFR signaling and induce cancer cells apoptosis via ER stress. PRV-LAV treatment also restores CD8+ T cell function against cancer. The combination of PRV-LAV and immune checkpoint inhibitors has a significant synergistic effect. Overall, these findings point to PRV-LAV as a serious potential candidate for the treatment of NRP1/EGFR pathway-associated tumors.

[The characteristics of plasma lipids in silicosis rat models were studied based on lipid metabolomics]

Objective: To screen the differential metabolites and metabolic pathways in silicosis model by analyzing plasma metabolomics of silicosis rats. Methods: In May 2021, twenty male SD rats were randomly divided into control group (C), 1-week silicosis group (S1W), 2-week silicosis group (S2W) and 4-week silicosis group (S4W), with 5 rats in each group. Rats were intratracheally instillated with 1ml crystalline SiO(2) suspension (50 mg/ml) or normal saline and were sacrificed after 1 week, 2 weeks and 4 weeks, HE staining was used to observe the lung pathology of rats. The plasma samples were analyzed by UPLC-IMS-QTOF mass spectrometer to screen out potential differential metabolites in silicosis models and analyze their lipid enrichment. Results: HE results showed that nodules formed in the silicosis model group, and with the extension of time, nodules gradually increased and alveolar structure was gradually destroyed. Metabolomics screened out 14 differential metabolites in S1W, 24 in S2W, and 28 in S4W, and found that the differential metabolites were mainly enriched in the metabolism of glycerophospholipid metabolism, fatty acid degradation, Glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) -anchor biosynthesis, fatty acid elongation and other metabolic pathways. Conclusion: There are significant changes in plasma lipid metabolites in silicosis rat models.

Intranasal influenza-vectored COVID-19 vaccine restrains the SARS-CoV-2 inflammatory response in hamsters

The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants and "anatomical escape" characteristics threaten the effectiveness of current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines. There is an urgent need to understand the immunological mechanism of broad-spectrum respiratory tract protection to guide broader vaccines development. Here we investigate immune responses induced by an NS1-deleted influenza virus vectored intranasal COVID-19 vaccine (dNS1-RBD) which provides broad-spectrum protection against SARS-CoV-2 variants in hamsters. Intranasal delivery of dNS1-RBD induces innate immunity, trained immunity and tissue-resident memory T cells covering the upper and lower respiratory tract. It restrains the inflammatory response by suppressing early phase viral load post SARS-CoV-2 challenge and attenuating pro-inflammatory cytokine (Il6, Il1b, and Ifng) levels, thereby reducing excess immune-induced tissue injury compared with the control group. By inducing local cellular immunity and trained immunity, intranasal delivery of NS1-deleted influenza virus vectored vaccine represents a broad-spectrum COVID-19 vaccine strategy to reduce disease burden.

Combination therapy of therapeutic antibody and vaccine or entecavir in HBV carrier mice

Chronic infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a leading causes of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, managing HBV treatments is challenging due to the lack of effective monotherapy. Here, we present two combination approaches, both of which aim to target and enhance the clearance of HBsAg and HBV-DNA. The first approach involves the use of antibodies to continuously suppress HBsAg, followed by the administration of a therapeutic vaccine in a sequential manner. This approach results in better therapeutic outcomes compared to the use of these treatments individually. The second approach involves combining antibodies with ETV, which effectively overcomes the limitations of ETV in suppressing HBsAg. Thus, the combination of therapeutic antibodies, therapeutic vaccines, and other existing drugs is a promising strategy for the development of novel strategies to treat hepatitis B.

The neutralizing breadth of antibodies targeting diverse conserved epitopes between SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2

Antibody therapeutics for the treatment of COVID-19 have been highly successful. However, the recent emergence of the Omicron variant has posed a challenge, as it evades detection by most existing SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies (nAbs). Here, we successfully generated a panel of SARS-CoV-2/SARS-CoV cross-neutralizing antibodies by sequential immunization of the two pseudoviruses. Of the potential candidates, we found that nAbs X01, X10, and X17 offer broad neutralizing potential against most variants of concern, with X17 further identified as a Class 5 nAb with undiminished neutralization against the Omicron variant. Cryo-electron microscopy structures of the three antibodies together in complex with each of the spike proteins of the prototypical SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2, and Delta and Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2 defined three nonoverlapping conserved epitopes on the receptor-binding domain. The triple-antibody mixture exhibited enhanced resistance to viral evasion and effective protection against infection of the Beta variant in hamsters. Our findings will aid the development of antibody therapeutics and broad vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 and its emerging variants.

New discovery of high-affinity SARS-CoV-2 spike S2 protein binding peptide selected by PhIP-Seq

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A peptide Spep-1 targeting S2 of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein was selected by PhIP-Seq.

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Spep-1 showed nanomolar affinity and high specificity to spike protein.

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S-1 based immunoassay can detect femtomolar spike antigen in spiked serum samples.

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Spep-1 can be used in future on S2 recognition, virus tracing and drug delivery.

A live attenuated virus-based intranasal COVID-19 vaccine provides rapid, prolonged, and broad protection against SARS-CoV-2

Remarkable progress has been made in developing intramuscular vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2); however, they are limited with respect to eliciting local immunity in the respiratory tract, which is the primary infection site for SARS-CoV-2. To overcome the limitations of intramuscular vaccines, we constructed a nasal vaccine candidate based on an influenza vector by inserting a gene encoding the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, named CA4-dNS1-nCoV-RBD (dNS1-RBD). A preclinical study showed that in hamsters challenged 1 d after single-dose vaccination or 9 months after booster vaccination, dNS1-RBD largely mitigated lung pathology, with no loss of body weight. Moreover, such cellular immunity is relatively unimpaired for the most concerning SARS-CoV-2 variants, especially for the latest Omicron variant. In addition, this vaccine also provides cross-protection against H1N1 and H5N1 influenza viruses. The protective immune mechanism of dNS1-RBD could be attributed to the innate immune response in the nasal epithelium, local RBD-specific T cell response in the lung, and RBD-specific IgA and IgG response. Thus, this study demonstrates that the intranasally delivered dNS1-RBD vaccine candidate may offer an important addition to the fight against the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and influenza infection, compensating limitations of current intramuscular vaccines.

Neutralizing breadth of antibodies targeting diverse conserved epitopes between SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2.. [DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-1386044/v1]

Antibody therapeutics for the treatment of COVID-19 has been highly successful while faces a challenge of the recent emergence of the Omicron variant which escapes the majority of existing SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies (nAbs). Here, we successfully generated a panel of SARS-CoV-2/SARS-CoV cross-neutralizing antibodies by sequential immunization of the two pseudoviruses. Of which, nAbs X01, X10 and X17 showed broadly neutralizing breadths against most variants of concern (VOCs) and X17 was further identified as a Class 5 nAb with undiminished neutralization against the Omicron variant. Cryo-EM structures of three-antibody in complex with the spike proteins of prototyped SARS-CoV-2, Delta, Omicron and SARS-CoV defined three non-overlapping conserved epitopes on the receptor-binding domain (RBD). The triple antibody cocktail exhibited enhanced resistance to viral escape and effective protection against the infection of Beta variant in hamsters. Our finding will aid the development of both antibody therapeutics and broad vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 and emerging variants.

Novel monkey mAbs induced by a therapeutic vaccine targeting the hepatitis B surface antigen effectively suppress hepatitis B virus in mice

Background

We have previously obtained a mouse anti-hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) antibody E6F6 with long-lasting serum HBsAg clearance effects. The E6F6 epitope-based protein CR-T3-SEQ13 (HBsAg aa 113-135) vaccination therapy in cynomolgus monkeys induced long-term polyclonal antibodies-mediated clearance of HBsAg in the HBV transgenic (HBV-Tg) mice.

Methods

We isolated monoclonal antibodies from CR-T3-SEQ13 vaccinated cynomolgus monkeys, compared their therapeutic effects with E6F6, identified their epitopes on HBsAg, determined the pharmacokinetics and studied their physical property.

Results

A panel of anti-HBsAg mAbs was generated through memory B cell stimulatory culture. Two lead monkey-human chimeric antibodies, C1-23 and C3-23, effectively suppressed HBsAg and HBV DNA in HBV-Tg mice. The humanized antibodies and humanized-mouse reverse chimeric antibodies of two antibodies exhibited comparable HBsAg clearance and viral suppression efficacy as those versions of E6F6 in HBV-Tg mice. Humanized antibody hu1-23 exhibited more efficacy HBsAg-suppressing effects than huE6F6-1 and hu3-23 in HBV-Tg mice at dose levels of 10 and 20 mg/kg. Evaluation of the binding sites indicates that the epitope recognized by hu1-23 is located in HBsAg aa 118-125 and 121-125 for hu3-23. Physical property study revealed that hu1-23 and hu3-23 are stable enough for further development as a drug candidate.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that the CR-T3-SEQ13 protein is a promising HBV therapeutic vaccine candidate, and hu1-23 and hu3-23 are therapeutic candidates for the treatment of chronic hepatitis b. Moreover, the generation of antibodies from the epitope-based vaccinated subjects may be an alternative approach for novel antibody drug discovery.

A recombinant spike protein subunit vaccine confers protective immunity against SARS-CoV-2 infection and transmission in hamsters

Multiple safe and effective vaccines that elicit immune responses against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are necessary to respond to the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Here, we developed a protein subunit vaccine composed of spike ectodomain protein (StriFK) plus a nitrogen bisphosphonate-modified zinc-aluminum hybrid adjuvant (FH002C). StriFK-FH002C generated substantially higher neutralizing antibody titers in mice, hamsters, and cynomolgus monkeys than those observed in plasma isolated from COVID-19 convalescent individuals. StriFK-FH002C also induced both TH1- and TH2-polarized helper T cell responses in mice. In hamsters, StriFK-FH002C immunization protected animals against SARS-CoV-2 challenge, as shown by the absence of virus-induced weight loss, fewer symptoms of disease, and reduced lung pathology. Vaccination of hamsters with StriFK-FH002C also reduced within-cage virus transmission to unvaccinated, cohoused hamsters. In summary, StriFK-FH002C represents an effective, protein subunit-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidate.

Near-GeV Electron Beams at a Few Per-Mille Level from a Laser Wakefield Accelerator via Density-Tailored Plasma

A simple, efficient scheme was developed to obtain near-gigaelectronvolt electron beams with energy spreads of few per-mille level in a single-stage laser wakefield accelerator. Longitudinal plasma density was tailored to control relativistic laser-beam evolution, resulting in injection, dechirping, and a quasi-phase-stable acceleration. With this scheme, electron beams with peak energies of 780-840 MeV, rms energy spreads of 2.4‰-4.1‰, charges of 8.5-23.6 pC, and rms divergences of 0.1-0.4 mrad were experimentally obtained. Quasi-three-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations agreed well with the experimental results. The dechirping strength was estimated to reach up to 11  TeV/mm/m, which is higher than previously obtained results. Such high-quality electron beams will boost the development of compact intense coherent radiation sources and x-ray free-electron lasers.

miRNA-21 promotes gastric cancer growth by adjusting prostaglandin E2

OBJECTIVE

It is to study the stimulation and possible active mechanism of miRNA-21 on AGS proliferation of gastric cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

AGS gastric cancer cells were cultivated in vitro and then divided into the blank control group, the PGE2 (prostaglandin E2) group, the anti-miRNA-21 group and the PGE2 + anti-miRNA-21 group and the MTT and the flow cytometry methods were adopted to test the effect of PGE2 or/and anti-miRNA-21 intervention on AGS cell proliferation and apoptosis and the differences to miRNA-21 expression. In addition, the cells were also divided into the blank control group, the PGE2 group, the PGE2 + Perifosine group, the PGE2 + anti-miRNA-21 group and the PGE2 + anti-miRNA-21 + Perifosine group and the MTT and flow cytometry methods were adopted to test the effect of Perifosine intervention on AGS cell proliferation and apoptosis and on PTEN and p-AktmRNA and protein expressions.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, AGS cell proliferation activity increased significantly, the apoptosis rate decreased and the miRNA-21tmRNA and protein expression increased in the PGE2 group (p < 0.05); compared with the PGE2 group, the AGS cell proliferation rate decreased, the apoptosis rate increased and the miRNA-21mRNA and protein expressions decreased (p < 0.05) in the anti-miRNA-21 group and the PGE2 + anti-miRNA-21 group. In addition, after intervention of Perifosine, the AGS cell proliferation rate decreased, the apoptosis rate increased, the PTEN mRNA and protein expressions increased and the pAktmRNA and protein expressions decreased (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

miRNA-21 may promote the growth of gastric cancer cells by adjusting and controlling PTEN/Akt signal passage mediated PEG2.

Inhibition of Sumoylation Alleviates Oxidative Stress-induced Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cell Senescence and Represses Proinflammatory Gene Expression

PURPOSE

Advanced age is the largest risk factor for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Sumoylation is a reversible post-translational modification that conjugates small peptide, small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO), to a target protein. Dysregulation of sumoylation is recently found to be critically involved in several age-related disorders. However, the effects of sumoylation during retina senescence and aging remains elusive. This study is aimed to investigate the function and regulation of sumoylation pathway in the aging retina and premature senescent retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells.

METHODS

1.5- and 10-month C57/B6 mice were used for comparative aging study. Both ARPE primary cultures and ARPE-19 cells were used for assay systems. The qRT-PCR was used for analysis of mRNA expression. Western blot and immunofluorescence were used to analyze the protein expression. Cell flow cytometry was used for cell cycle progression analysis. RPE barrier function and senescent-associated β-galactosidase (SA β-gal) activity were analyzed to measure cellular senescence.

RESULTS

We show that the expression of SUMO enzymes and global protein sumoylation were downregulated in the aging mouse retina, and in the oxidative stress (OS) -induced premature senescent RPE cells. Dramatical altered distribution of SUMO E1, E2 and E3 enzymes were observed during RPE senescence. Inhibition of sumoylation alleviated OS-induced cell senescence in RPE cells, as indicated by decreased p21 and p53 expression and decreased percentage of cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase. Intriguingly, inhibition of SUMO E1 repressed the expression of proinflammatory cytokine and chemokine in the premature senescent RPE cells. However, inhibition of sumoylation did not prevent DNA damage during the OS-induced RPE senescence process.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate sumoylation critically regulates retina and RPE aging and that targeting sumoylation process may provide potential therapeutic strategy for AMD treatment.

[Mechanism of angiotensin II (Ang II) on the proliferation of human hepatoma cell line HepG2 cells]

Objective: To study the effect and mechanism of angiotensin (Ang II) on the proliferation of human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells. Methods: The effects of different concentrations of Ang II's (10(-8)-10(-4) mol/L) on proliferated hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells were detected by CCK-8 assay. The expression of angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1) protein and activation of ERK1/2 protein in hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells after processing with Ang II were assayed by Western blot. The cells were pretreated with candesartan (AT1 receptor antagonist), sorafenib (Raf kinase inhibitor) and PD98059 (ERK1/2 inhibitor) for 1.5 h and then Ang II (10(-6) mol/L) was added. CCK-8 assay was used to determine whether it could reverse the proliferation of Ang II, and ERK phosphorylation levels were detected by Western blot. The changes in Bcl-2 and c-myc gene expression before and after Ang II processing were detected by Rt-PCR. According to different data, t-test, one-way analysis of variance or SNK method were used for statistical analysis. Results: HepG2 cells treated with different concentrations of Ang II promoted cell proliferation after 24h and 48h. After 24 h, cell vitality was strongest with Ang II concentration 10(-5) mol/L and the absorbance value was 0.990 8±0.097 8; and again after 48 h, the cell viability was strongest with Ang II concentration 10(-6) mol/L and the absorbance value was 1.302 7 ± 0.030 9. Moreover, the pro-proliferation effect of Ang II on HepG2 cells blocked candesartan, sorafenib and ERK1/2 isolated inhibitors. After treatment with 10(-6) mol/L Ang II, Western blot showed that Ang II significantly promoted AT1 receptor expression and phosphorylation of ERK1/2 protein confirmed that Ang II activated the AT1/RAF/ERK1/2 signaling pathway. In addition, Rt-PCR detection showed that the downstream of Bcl-2 and c-myc genes expressions rose significantly when the concentration of Ang II ranged from 10(-8) to 10(-6) mol/L. Conclusion: Ang II can promote the proliferation of HepG2 cells by activating AT1/Raf /ERK1/2 signaling pathway and enhance the downstream of Bcl-2 and c-myc gene expression.

Novel coronaviruses, astroviruses, adenoviruses and circoviruses in insectivorous bats from northern China

Bats are considered as the reservoirs of several emerging infectious disease, and novel viruses are continually found in bats all around the world. Studies conducted in southern China found that bats carried a variety of viruses. However, few studies have been conducted on bats in northern China, which harbours a diversity of endemic insectivorous bats. It is important to understand the prevalence and diversity of viruses circulating in bats in northern China. In this study, a total of 145 insectivorous bats representing six species were collected from northern China and screened with degenerate primers for viruses belonging to six families, including coronaviruses, astroviruses, hantaviruses, paramyxoviruses, adenoviruses and circoviruses. Our study found that four of the viruses screened for were positive and the overall detection rates for astroviruses, coronaviruses, adenoviruses and circoviruses in bats were 21.4%, 15.9%, 20% and 37.2%, respectively. In addition, we found that bats in northern China harboured a diversity of novel viruses. Common Serotine (Eptesicus serotinu), Fringed long‐footed Myotis (Myotis fimriatus) and Peking Myotis (Myotis pequinius) were investigated in China for the first time. Our study provided new information on the ecology and phylogeny of bat‐borne viruses.

High-Brightness High-Energy Electron Beams from a Laser Wakefield Accelerator via Energy Chirp Control

By designing a structured gas density profile between the dual-stage gas jets to manipulate electron seeding and energy chirp reversal for compressing the energy spread, we have experimentally produced high-brightness high-energy electron beams from a cascaded laser wakefield accelerator with peak energies in the range of 200-600 MeV, 0.4%-1.2% rms energy spread, 10-80 pC charge, and ∼0.2  mrad rms divergence. The maximum six-dimensional brightness B_{6D,n} is estimated as ∼6.5×10^{15}  A/m^{2}/0.1%, which is very close to the typical brightness of e beams from state-of-the-art linac drivers. These high-brightness high-energy e beams may lead to the realization of compact monoenergetic gamma-ray and intense coherent x-ray radiation sources.

Abnormal Amygdala Resting-State Functional Connectivity in Irritable Bowel Syndrome

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Functional neuroimaging studies in irritable bowel syndrome have revealed abnormalities in the corticolimbic regions, specifically, hyperactivity of the amygdala during visceral and somatic stimulation. This study investigated changes in the neural circuitry of the amygdala in patients with irritable bowel syndrome based on resting-state functional connectivity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Functional MR imaging data were acquired from 31 patients with irritable bowel syndrome and 32 healthy controls (matched for age, sex, and educational level) during rest, and the resting-state functional connectivity of bilateral amygdalae was compared. Multiple regression was performed to investigate the relationship between clinical indices of patients with irritable bowel syndrome and resting-state functional connectivity.

RESULTS

Compared with healthy controls, patients with irritable bowel syndrome had higher positive resting-state functional connectivity between the amygdala and insula, midbrain, parahippocampal gyrus, pre- and postcentral gyri, and supplementary motor area. The inclusion of anxiety and depression as covariates did not alter amygdala resting-state functional connectivity differences between the study groups. Multiple covariate regression results showed that the pain intensity in patients with irritable bowel syndrome positively correlated with resting-state functional connectivity between the amygdala and supplementary motor area, pre- and postcentral gyri, and insula, while the Irritable Bowel Syndrome-Symptom Severity Score positively correlated with resting-state functional connectivity between the amygdala and insula and midbrain.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with irritable bowel syndrome showed disturbed amygdala resting-state functional connectivity with the corticolimbic regions, which could partly account for the enhanced emotional arousal and visceral information processing associated with irritable bowel syndrome.

Abnormal regional homogeneity in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: A resting-state functional MRI study

BACKGROUND

Task-related brain imaging research has implicated abnormal central processing of visceral sensation in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, how brain function of IBS patients is altered during resting-state remains to be determined. We investigated spontaneous brain activity of patients with IBS using regional homogeneity (ReHo) analysis in resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI).

METHODS

Thirty-one patients with diarrhea-predominant IBS and 32 age- and sex- matched healthy controls underwent clinical assessments and rs-fMRI scanning. ReHo maps were acquired by calculating the Kendall's coefficient of concordance and compared between the IBS group and the control group. The effects of psychological disturbance on group differences were assessed by including anxiety and depression levels as covariates in the statistical analyses. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between ReHo values and disease duration, symptom severity, and pain intensity.

KEY RESULTS

Compared with controls, IBS patients showed increased ReHo in the postcentral gyrus and thalamus and decreased ReHo in the anterior cingulate cortex and prefrontal cortex. The inclusion of anxiety and depression as covariates did not alter ReHo differences between the two groups. Furthermore, significant correlations were found between clinical indices and ReHo values in some brain regions in the IBS group.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

IBS patients have abnormal local synchronization of spontaneous brain activity in regions involved in visceral afferent processing, emotional arousal, and cognitive modulation. Combining rs-fMRI and ReHo analysis seems to be a valuable approach to investigate the neural basis of IBS.

[Effects of simvastatin nano-liposomes on osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of liposomal formulation on simvastatin nano-liposomes (SMV-liposome) promoting the osteogenic differentiation of mice bone marrow stromal cells (BMSC) analyzed by the expressions of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP).

METHODS

Primary BMDC were cultured in vitro using adherence and culture of whole bone marrow method. SMV dosage was set as control group and had two different dosages in this group on the basis of the concentration of SMV. 1 μmol/L and 2 μmol/L SMV concentration were represented by SMV low dosage group (S1) and SMV high dosage group (S2), respectively. Similarly, SMV-liposome dosage was set as experimental group including two different dosages, 1 μmol/L SMV capsuled concentration as SMV-liposome low dosage group (SL1) and 2 μmol/L SMV capsuled concentration as SMV-liposome high dosage group (SL2). Besides, groups with no drug intervention in the experiments were set as blank. BMSC were treated with different concentrations of SMV and SMV-liposome for 48 h, the activity of ALP was measured using p-nitropheny-phosate method, and ALP expression in the BMSC cells was stained by BCIP/NBT alkaline phosphatase color development kit (BCIP/NBT Kit). Furthermore, BMP-2 expression in the BMSC was determined by Western Blot.

RESULTS

MTT assay showed, after incubated with different concentrations of SMV and SMV-liposome, the cell viabilities of BMSC were all above 85% and had no significant difference in the groups. Compared with the same dosage of SMV in these groups, control group and experimental group had significantly elevated the specific activity of ALP, the staining of BCIP/NBTKit as well as the protein expression of BMP-2. Besides, the data showed dose-dependent elevation in the control group and experimental group, namely the high dose group had better results than the low dose group.

CONCLUSION

Nano-liposomal formulation significantly enhanced SMV effects on the osteogenetic differentiation of BMSC.

The superior aspect of the perirenal space: could it be depicted by dual-source CT in vivo in adults

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to observe whether the renal fascias could be effectively shown by dual-source CT (DSCT) and to explore the superior communication of the perirenal space (PS) in vivo in adults.

METHODS

275 cases were included in the normal group and 124 cases in the acute pancreatitis group in this study; all images obtained by DSCT were observed; the superior adherence of the renal fascias and the pattern of superior communication of the PS were judged; and the consistency between the two groups was compared.

RESULTS

The superior adherence of the renal fascias was reliably displayed in 57.8% of the normal group and 69.4% of the acute pancreatitis group, the anterior renal fascia (ARF) did not fuse with the posterior renal fascia superiorly. The left ARF fused with the posterior parietal peritoneum in 57.9% of the normal group and 45.3% of the pancreatitis group, where the left PS communicated with the subdiaphragmatic retroperitoneal space (SDRS). The left ARF fused with the peritoneum laterally and simultaneously with the inferior phrenic fascia medially in 42.1% and 54.7% of each group, respectively, where the left PS was open towards the SDRS laterally but sealed off from the SDRS medially. The right ARF fused with the peritoneum in all cases; and the right PS was open towards the bare area of the liver.

CONCLUSION

To some extent, DSCT can display renal fascia and its superior adherence and reflect the superior communication of the PS.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

This study was conducted in vivo in adults by high-resolution DSCT, and more samples could be provided.

Abnormalities in whole-brain functional connectivity observed in treatment-naive post-traumatic stress disorder patients following an earthquake

BACKGROUND

Convergent studies have highlighted the dysfunction of the amygdala, prefrontal cortex and hippocampus in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, only a few studies have investigated the functional connectivity between brain regions in PTSD patients during the resting state, which may improve our understanding of the neuropathophysiology of PTSD. The aim of this study was to investigate patterns of whole-brain functional connectivity in treatment-naive PTSD patients without co-morbid conditions who experienced the 8.0-magnitude earthquake in the Sichuan province of China.

METHOD

A total of 72 PTSD patients and 86 trauma-exposed non-PTSD controls participated in the resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging study. All these subjects were recruited from the disaster zone of the 2008 Sichuan earthquake. Functional connectivities between 90 paired brain regions in PTSD patients were compared with those in trauma-exposed non-PTSD controls. Furthermore, Pearson correlation analysis was performed between significantly abnormal connectivities in PTSD patients and their clinician-administered PTSD scale (CAPS) scores.

RESULTS

Compared with non-PTSD controls, PTSD patients showed weaker positive connectivities between the middle prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and the amygdala, hippocampus, parahippocampal gyrus and rectus, as well as between the inferior orbitofrontal cortex and the hippocampus. In addition, PTSD patients showed stronger negative connectivity between the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and the insula. The CAPS scores in PTSD patients correlated negatively with the connectivity between the amygdala and the mPFC.

CONCLUSIONS

PTSD patients showed abnormalities in whole-brain functional connectivity, primarily affecting the connectivities between the mPFC and limbic system, and connectivity between the PCC and insula.

Losartan reverses glomerular podocytes injury induced by AngII via stabilizing the expression of GLUT1

Podocyte impairment is a key pathogenic even in the initiation and development of glomerular diseases associated with proteinuria. The type 2 diabetic patients is characterized by progressive increases in albuminuria which are associated with the development of characteristic histopathological features. Losartan had a benefit in decreasing albuminuria in type 2 diabetic patients,suggesting that losartan may have another effect other than blockade of the traditional renin-angiotensin system (RAS). However, the mechanism has remained undetermined. Glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) is the predominant basal glucose transporter. In the kidney, GLUT1 was overexpressed predominantly in glomerular mesangial cells and in small vessels, rather than in podocytes. The increased glomerular GLUT1 mimicked diabetes-induced glomerular GLUT1 expression. In this study, we hypothesized that increased GLUT1 expression induced by angiotensinII (AngII) contributes to the progression of podocytes injury, losartan can block the effect of AngII and protect podocytes via stabilizing the expression of GLUT1, our results strongly suggest that losartan has a direct and protective effect on podocytes. This represents a novel mechanism by which losartan may protect podocyte from apoptotic death and improve podocyte function via stabilizing the expression of GLUT1. This finding underlines the crucial role of GLUT1 in the pathogenesis of podocyte injury and proteinuria.

12S-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid levels link to coronary artery disease in Type 2 diabetic patients

BACKGROUND

12(S)-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12(S)-HETE) is a metabolite of arachidonic acid. 12(S)-HETE is involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and diabetes. However, the correlation between 12(S)-HETE and coronary artery disease (CAD) in the diabetic patient is unclear.

AIMS

The study investigated the relationship between 12(S)-HETE and CAD in Type 2 diabetes (T2D).

METHODS

Plasma 12(S)- HETE levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 103 healthy controls (control), 109 diabetic patients without CAD (diabetic), and 152 diabetic patients with CAD (diabetic-CAD).

RESULTS

12(S)-HETE levels were higher in both diabetic and diabetic-CAD groups compared to control and in the diabetic-CAD group compared to the diabetic group. In the multiple linear stepwise regression analysis, 12(S)-HETE levels correlated independently with CAD, systolic blood pressure, and glycated hemoglobin.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that 12(S)-HETE levels are increased in diabetic patients with CAD, suggesting a role for atherosclerosis in T2D.

Disruption of PF4/H multimolecular complex formation with a minimally anticoagulant heparin (ODSH)

Recent studies have shown that ultra-large complexes (ULCs) of platelet factor 4 (PF4) and heparin (H) play an essential role in the pathogenesis of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), an immune-mediated disorder caused by PF4/H antibodies. Because antigenic PF4/H ULCs assemble through non-specific electrostatic interactions, we reasoned that disruption of charge-based interactions can modulate the immune response to antigen. We tested a minimally anticoagulant compound (2-O, 3-O desulfated heparin, ODSH) with preserved charge to disrupt PF4/H complex formation and immunogenicity. We show that ODSH disrupts complexes when added to pre-formed PF4/H ULCs and prevents ULC formation when incubated simultaneously with PF4 and UFH. In other studies, we show that excess ODSH reduces HIT antibody (Ab) binding in immunoassays and that PF4/ODSH complexes do not cross-react with HIT Abs. When ODSH and unfractionated heparin (UFH) are mixed at equimolar concentrations, we show that there is a negligible effect on amount of protamine required for heparin neutralisation and reduced immunogenicity of PF4/UFH in the presence of ODSH. Taken together, these studies suggest that ODSH can be used concurrently with UFH to disrupt PF4/H charge interactions and provides a novel strategy to reduce antibody mediated complications in HIT.

Do associations between staff and inpatient feedback have the potential for improving patient experience? An analysis of surveys in NHS acute trusts in England

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether staff feedback on quality, safety and workforce issues is reflected in patient-reported experience.

SETTING

166 NHS acute trusts in England.

PARTICIPANTS

Respondents to the 2006 surveys of adult inpatients and staff in 166 NHS acute trusts in England.

METHODS

Multiple linear regression was used to model the relationship between responses by "frontline" staff and inpatients at trust level. Staff survey items were the explanatory variables and inpatient responses the dependent variables. Adjustments were made for location (London and non-London) and trust type.

RESULTS

69 500 staff and 81 000 patients responded to the surveys. There were several significant associations between staff and patients' responses, including that staff availability of hand-washing materials was positively associated with patient feedback on cleanliness and hand washing by doctors/nurses (p<0.00). It was a significant predictor of patient experience also in several other models. Other significant predictors of patient experience were managerial support, witnessing and reporting of errors (positively associated with patient experience), working extra hours and stress (negatively associated). London trusts performed worse on patient experience than trusts outside London and specialist trusts performed better than other acute trusts.

CONCLUSIONS

Staff feedback was associated with patient-reported experience. Positive staff feedback on availability of hand-washing materials was broadly reflective of positive patient experience. Negative staff experience was reflected in poorer patient experience and vice versa. Although we cannot demonstrate causality, the consistent direction of the findings is indicative of it. Management boards of trusts and clinicians and other staff should monitor and act on the results of their staff surveys. This has the potential for improving quality, safety and patient experience.

Optimization of a murine immunization model for study of PF4/heparin antibodies

SUMMARY BACKGROUND

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a life-threatening thrombotic illness caused by drug-dependent antibodies recognizing complexes of platelet factor 4 (PF4) and heparin. Little is known about the immune pathogenesis of HIT, in particular factors influencing PF4/heparin antibody formation. To gain insight into the biologic basis of heparin sensitization, we have recently developed an animal model using wild-type (WT) mice in which murine PF4/heparin antibodies (anti-mPF4/H) arise de novo after antigen challenge.

OBJECTIVES AND METHODS

This report describes technical refinements to the murine model and describes additional biologic features of the immune response to mPF4/heparin.

RESULTS

Our studies indicate that antibody responses to mPF4/heparin are dependent on murine strain, injection routes and doses of mPF4 and heparin. C57BL/6 mice are more immunologically responsive to mPF4/heparin antigen than BALB/c mice and robust immunization can be achieved with intravenous, but not intraperitoneal, administration of antigen. We also observe a direct relationship between initial concentrations of mPF4 and antibody levels. Additionally, we demonstrate that mPF4/H immune response in mice decays with time, is not associated with thrombocytopenia and displays characteristics of immune recall on re-exposure to antigen.

CONCLUSIONS

These studies describe and characterize a murine model for studying the immunologic basis of PF4/heparin sensitization.

Gastrointestinal absorption enhancement of insulin by administration of enteric microspheres and SNAC to rats

The preparation and characteristics of insulin enteric microspheres (EMS) were studied and the gastrointestinal absorption enhancement of insulin by co-administering EMS with sodium N-(8-[2-hydroxybenzoyl] amino) caprylate (SNAC) was determined. The w/o/w and o(1)/o(2) emulsion solvent evaporation methods were used to prepare insulin-hydroxypropyl methylcellulose phthalate (HPMCP) EMS. High-performance liquid chormatography determined the drug loading, entrapment efficiency, stability to pepsin, and drug dissolution rate in hydrochloric acid solution (pH 1.2) and phosphate buffer solution (pH 6.8). The hypoglycaemic effect was studied by orally administrating the insulin EMS and SNAC to rats. The particle size of EMS (o(1)/o(2)) and EMS (w/o/w) was about 500 and 30 micro m respectively, and drug loading was 7 and 3% respectively. After being incubated with 18 micro g/mL pepsin solution (pH 1) at 37 degrees C, only 20% of insulin in EMS (o(1)/o(2)) was digested within 4 h, while 60% of the insulin in EMS (w/o/w) was digested within 1 h. In hydrochloric acid solution (pH 1.2), EMS (o(1)/o(2)) had less drug dissolution than EMS (w/o/w). In phosphate buffer solution (pH 6.8), the entire drug release time of EMS (o(1)/o(2)) and EMS (w/o/w) was 75 and 10 min, respectively. After orally administering with SNAC, EMS (o(1)/o(2)) could decrease the blood glucose level of rats remarkably and maintain the hypoglycaemic effect for 4 h, while EMS (w/o/w) had just a weakly hypoglycaemic effect. The results showed that the characteristics-optimized EMS, i.e. EMS (o(1)/o(2)) incorporating SNAC, could enhance insulin absorption significantly in the gastrointestional tract by taking advantage of both protection from enzyme degradation and improvement of drug permeability.

The do-not-resuscitate order: associations with advance directives, physician specialty and documentation of discussion 15 years after the Patient Self-Determination Act

BACKGROUND

Since the passage of the Patient Self-Determination Act, numerous policy mandates and institutional measures have been implemented. It is unknown to what extent those measures have affected end-of-life care, particularly with regard to the do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study to assess associations of the frequency and timing of DNR orders with advance directive status, patient demographics, physician's specialty and extent of documentation of discussion on end-of-life care.

RESULTS

DNR orders were more frequent for patients on a medical service than on a surgical service (77.34% vs 64.20%, p = 0.02) and were made earlier in the hospital stay for medicine than for surgical patients (adjusted mean ratio of time from DNR orders to death versus total length of stay 0.30 for internists vs 0.21 for surgeons, p = 0.04). 22.18% of all patients had some form of an advance directive in their chart, yet this variable had no impact on the frequency or timing of DNR ordering. Documentation of DNR discussion was significantly associated with the frequency of DNR orders and the time from DNR to death (2.1 days with no or minimal discussion vs 2.8 days with extensive discussion, p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The physician's specialty continues to have a significant impact on the frequency and timing of DNR orders, while advance directive status still has no measurable impact. Additionally, documentation of end-of-life discussions is significantly associated with varying DNR ordering rates and timing.

Predictors of outcome in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma receiving transcatheter arterial chemoembolization

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) has been shown to improve survival in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

AIM

To identify pretreatment factors that predicts increased mortality in HCC patients receiving TACE.

METHODS

Retrospective review of all patients who underwent TACE for HCC from January 1999 to November 2004. Patient demographics, aetiology of liver disease, laboratory and imaging data regarding tumour characteristics were obtained.

RESULTS

Eighty-eight patients (57 +/- 1 years age) received 1-4 sessions of TACE (1.4 +/- 0.1). Tumour size was 3.3 +/- 0.2 cm (range 1-13 cm, median 3 cm) with mean number of lesions 1.9 +/- 0.1 (range 1-7). Mean model for the end stage liver disease score: 11 +/- 0.4; cancer of the liver Italian program score: 1.3 +/- 0.1. Survival post-TACE (excluding those underwent orthotopic liver transplantation) was 12 +/- 0.3 months. By multivariate analysis, tumour size (HR = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.11-1.68, P = 0.003), hypovascularity (HR = 12.62, 95% CI: 1.79-88.92, P = 0.01) and elevated international normalized ratio (HR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.10-1.92 P = 0.008) are shown to be significant risk factors for increased mortality.

CONCLUSION

TACE therapy leads to a mean survival of 12 months in patients not receiving orthotopic liver transplantation. Tumour size, hypovascularity on imaging, and elevated international normalized ratio are predictors of increased mortality after TACE therapy for HCC.

DNR patterns in cancer patients (pts) 16 years after the Patient Self Determination Act (PSDA)

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Background: In 1991, the PSDA required institutions receiving federal funding to inform pts about the right to refuse life prolonging treatments such as CPR. Studies conducted around 1991 suggest that most DNR orders are written by oncologists less than 3 days prior to death in hospitalized pts, raising ethical concerns. 16 years later, are oncology clinicians writing DNR orders earlier in cancer pts’ hospital course compared to non-cancer pts? Methods: We conducted a chart review of 284 of the 296 total adult deaths during 2005 at Indiana University Hospital. Demographic, diagnostic, and attending service info was collected from hospital billing records. Pts’ DNR status, timing of DNR orders, and presence of a written advanced directive (AD) were assessed through chart review. Results: 76 of 284 (26.8%) patients had cancer diagnoses. Of these, 59 had documented DNR orders. There was no difference in presence or absence of DNR orders at the time of death for cancer vs. non-cancer pts (77.6 vs 72.7%, p=0.35). Mean time from writing of the DNR order to death was 3.51 ± 4.61 days for cancer pts compared to 3.26 ±3.81 days for non-cancer pts (p=0.40), however, the majority of DNR orders written by oncologists were written less than 2 days prior to death. We calculated a ratio of the time between DNR order writing and death to the overall length of stay for cancer and non-cancer pts, excluding pts with very short lengths of stay ( = 5 days). In univariate analyses, this ratio trended toward statistical significance (p=0.08). In multivariate analyses, cancer pts had a higher ratio of the time between DNR order and death to LOS (0.30 vs 0.21, p=0.05). Existence of an AD had no significant impact on this ratio. Surgical specialists wrote DNR orders less frequently (64.2 vs 77.3%, p=0.02) and later than non-surgical specialists (mean 21 vs 10 days from admission, p=0.0008). Conclusions: In this study, DNR ordering patterns among hospitalized cancer and non-cancer pts have changed little since the PSDA. Although cancer pts on average had DNR orders written relatively earlier in their terminal hospital stay than non-cancer pts, the timing varied little from pts in prior studies. Although the majority of hospitalized pts in this sample died with DNR orders, these orders were written very late in their hospital stay.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Potent antitumor efficacy of XAF1 delivered by conditionally replicative adenovirus vector via caspase-independent apoptosis

XAF1 is a newly identified tumor-suppressor gene that can antagonize XIAP and sensitize cells to other cell death triggers. In this study, we utilized ZD55, a conditionally replicative adenovirus (CRAd) similar to ONYX-015 as the vector to transfer XAF1 into the tumor cells to evaluate its antitumor efficacy in vitro and in vivo. Potent and specific cytopathic effect (CPE) was observed upon infection with ZD55-XAF1 in tumor cell lines. Importantly, ZD55-XAF1 exhibited a superior suppression of tumor growth in an animal model of colorectal carcinoma in nude mice compared with Ad-XAF1 (E1-deleted replication-defective viral) and ONYX-015. Complete eradication of the established tumors was observed in four of eight mice. Our data also showed that infection with ZD55-XAF1 resulted in caspase-independent apoptosis. Although caspase-3, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase were mildly activated in response to ZD55-XAF1 infection, pretreatment with pan-caspase inhibitor hardly influence its apoptosis-inducing activity. In summary, our study strongly suggested that ZD55-XAF1 could serve as an effective gene-virotherapy strategy and has highly potential against human cancers.

Effects of admission hyperglycemia on mortality and costs in acute ischemic stroke

BACKGROUND

Hyperglycemia at the time of acute ischemic stroke has been linked to worse outcome in both human and animal studies.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the prevalence and severity of hyperglycemia on hospital admission among acute ischemic stroke patients, to examine the independent relationship of admission hyperglycemia to all-cause mortality, and to document the inpatient management of hyperglycemia.

METHODS

Patients hospitalized with acute ischemic stroke at one hospital from July 1993 to June 1998 (n = 656) were identified. Demographic data, diagnoses, and blood glucose (BG) values were retrieved from the electronic medical record system. Admission stroke severity, fingerstick BG results, and new diabetes diagnoses were obtained by chart review. Hyperglycemia was defined as admitting random serum BG > or = 130 mg/dL. Hazard ratios (HR) for 30-day, 1-year, and 6-year mortality were calculated using multivariable Cox regression models.

RESULTS

Hyperglycemia at admission to hospital was present in 40% of patients with acute stroke. Patients with hyperglycemia were more often women and more likely to have prior diagnoses of diabetes and heart failure. Almost all of these patients remained hyperglycemic during their hospital stay (mean BG = 206 mg/dL), and 43% received no inpatient hypoglycemic drugs. Hyperglycemic patients had longer hospital stay (7 vs 6 days, p = 0.015) and higher inpatient hospital charges ($6,611 vs $5,262, p < 0.001). Hyperglycemia independently increased the risk for death at 30 days (HR 1.87, p < or = 0.01), 1 year (HR 1.75, p < or = 0.01), and 6 years after stroke (HR 1.41, p </= 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Admitting hyperglycemia was common among patients with acute ischemic stroke and was associated with increased short- and long-term mortality and with increased inpatient charges. Inpatient blood glucose management was suboptimal in this hospital. A trial of intensive treatment of hyperglycemia should be considered.

Treatment of antibiotics wastewater utilizing successive hydrolysis, denitrification and nitrification

A process consisting of anaerobic hydrolysis, denitrification, and oxidation/nitrification was proposed for simultaneous removal of carbon and nitrogen from terramycin crystallizing mother solution (TCMS), and its performance was investigated by treating diluted TCMS in a lab-scale continuous flow column system. Direct denitrification-nitrification of diluted TCMS produced a significant residual of nitrate and nitrite, which disappeared 44 days after startup of anaerobic hydrolysis column. The electron donors available to denitrification were increased by 6 times after diluted TCMS was treated in the hydrolysis column under an HRT of 2.5 h or longer. The reaction rates of organics decomposition, nitrification, and denitrification were also significantly increased due to reduction of terramycin and decomposition of complicated molecules to small molecules during anaerobic hydrolysis. The specific denitrification rate and nitrification rate increased from 0.033 d(-1) and 0.01 d(-1) to 0.045 d(-1) and 0.021 d(-1) respectively after diluted TCMS (dilution ratio: 1:4) was hydrolyzed in anaerobic hydrolysis column at a hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 4 h.

Identification of tumor markers in models of human colorectal cancer using a 19,200-element complementary DNA microarray

Metastasis represents a crucial transition in disease development and progression and has a profound impact on survival for a wide variety of cancers. Cell line models of metastasis have played an important role in developing our understanding of the metastatic process. We used a 19,200-element human cDNA microarray to profile transcription in three paired cell-line models of colorectal tumor metastasis. By correlating expression patterns across these cell lines, we have identified 176 genes that appear to be differentially expressed (greater than 2-fold) in all highly metastatic cell lines relative to their reference. An analysis of these genes reiterates much of our understanding of the metastatic process and suggests additional genes, many of previously uncharacterized function, that may be causatively involved in, or at least prognostic of, metastasis. Northern analysis of a limited number of these genes validates the observed pattern of expression and suggests that further investigation and functional characterization of the identified genes is warranted.