A gamma ray spectrometer with Compton suppression on the HL-2A tokamak

A new broad-energy, high-resolution gamma ray spectrometer (GRS) with Compton suppression function has been developed recently in the HL-2A tokamak to obtain the gamma ray information in the energy range of 0.1-10 MeV. This is the first time to develop an anti-Compton GRS for a magnetic confinement fusion device. The anticoincidence detector consists of a large-volume high purity germanium (HPGe) crystal (Φ63 × 63 mm²) as the primary detector and eight trapezoidal bismuth germinate (BGO) scintillators (trapezoid crystal with 30 mm thickness) as the secondary detector. The anti-coincidence data processing is implemented by a digital-based data acquisition system with fast digitization and software signal processing technology. Using radioisotope gamma ray sources and Monte Carlo N-Particle code, the energy and efficiency of the spectrometer have been calibrated and quantitatively tested. The Compton continuum suppression factor reaches 4.2, and the energy resolution (Full Width at Half Maximum) of the 1.332 MeV full energy peak for ⁶⁰Co is 2.1 keV. Measurements of gamma ray spectra with Compton suppression using the spectrometer have been successfully performed during HL-2A discharges with different conditions. The performance of the spectrometer and the first experimental results are presented in this paper.

[Application of ROC and PR curves in the evaluation of clinical diagnostic testing]

This study reviewed the concepts and properties of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and precision recall (PR) curve, and made suggestions on the application of two curves based on the prevalence in combination with the results of simulation data. This study demonstrated that the ROC curve and PR curve had different properties, which could reflect the performance of diagnostic methods from various aspects. These two curves should be selected with a consideration of prevalence and clinical scenarios. When the prevalence was less than 20%, especially less than 5%, the PR curve could be adopted.

[Overexpression of NAT10 induced platinum drugs resistance in breast cancer cell]

Objective: To observe the platinum drugs resistance effect of N-acetyltransferase 10 (NAT10) overexpression in breast cancer cell line and elucidate the underlining mechanisms. Methods: The experiment was divided into wild-type (MCF-7 wild-type cells without any treatment) group, NAT10 overexpression group (H-NAT10 plasmid transfected into MCF-7 cells) and NAT10 knockdown group (SH-NAT10 plasmid transfected into MCF-7 cells). The invasion was detected by Transwell array, the interaction between NAT10 and PARP1 was detected by co-immunoprecipitation. The impact of NAT10 overexpression or knockdown on the acetylation level of PARP1 and its half-life was also determined. Immunostaining and IP array were used to detect the recruitment of DNA damage repair protein by acetylated PARP1. Flow cytometry was used to detect the cell apoptosis. Results: Transwell invasion assay showed that the number of cell invasion was 483.00±46.90 in the NAT10 overexpression group, 469.00±40.50 in the NAT10 knockdown group, and 445.00±35.50 in the MCF-7 wild-type cells, and the differences were not statistically significant (P>0.05). In the presence of 10 μmol/L oxaliplatin, the number of cell invasion was 502.00±45.60 in the NAT10 overexpression group and 105.00±20.50 in the NAT10 knockdown group, both statistically significant (P<0.05) compared with 219.00±31.50 in wild-type cells. In the presence of 10 μmol/L oxaliplatin, NAT10 overexpression enhanced the binding of PARP1 to NAT10 compared with wild-type cells, whereas the use of the NAT10 inhibitor Remodelin inhibited the mutual binding of the two. Overexpression of NAT10 induced PARP1 acetylation followed by increased PARP1 binding to XRCC1, and knockdown of NAT10 expression reduced PARP1 binding to XRCC1. Overexpression of NAT10 enhanced PARP1 binding to LIG3, while knockdown of NAT10 expression decreased PARP1 binding to LIG3. In 10 μmol/L oxaliplatin-treated cells, the γH2AX expression level was 0.38±0.02 in NAT10 overexpressing cells and 1.36±0.15 in NAT10 knockdown cells, both statistically significant (P<0.05) compared with 1.00±0.00 in wild-type cells. In 10 μmol/L oxaliplatin treated cells, the apoptosis rate was (6.54±0.68)% in the NAT10 overexpression group and (12.98±2.54)% in the NAT10 knockdown group, both of which were statistically significant (P<0.05) compared with (9.67±0.37)% in wild-type cells. Conclusion: NAT10 overexpression enhances the binding of NAT10 to PARP1 and promotes the acetylation of PARP1, which in turn prolongs the half-life of PARP1, thus enhancing PARP1 recruitment of DNA damage repair related proteins to the damage sites, promoting DNA damage repair and ultimately the survival of breast cancer cells.

Lif Deficiency Leads to Iron Transportation Dysfunction in Ameloblasts

Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), a member of the interleukin 6 family of cytokines, is involved in skeletal metabolism, blastocyst implantation, and stem cell pluripotency maintenance. However, the role of LIF in tooth development needs to be elucidated. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of Lif deficiency on tooth development and to elucidate the functions of Lif during tooth development and the underlying mechanisms. First, it was found that the incisors of Lif-knockout mice had a much whiter color than those of wild-type mice. Although there were no structural abnormalities or defective mineralization according to scanning electronic microscopy and computed tomography analysis, 3-dimensional images showed that the length of incisors was shorter in Lif^-/- mice. Microhardness and acid resistance assays showed that the hardness and acid resistance of the enamel surface of Lif^-/- mice were decreased compared to those of wild-type mice. In Lif^-/- mice, whose general iron status was comparable to that of the control mice, the iron content of the incisors was significantly reduced, as confirmed by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and Prussian blue staining. Histological staining showed that the cell length of maturation-stage ameloblasts was shorter in Lif^-/- mice. Likewise, decreased expression of Tfrc and Slc40a1, both of which are crucial proteins for iron transportation, was observed in Lif^-/- mice and Lif-knockdown ameloblast lineage cell lines, according to quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and Western blot. Moreover, the upregulation of Tfrc and Slc40a1 induced by Lif stimulation was blocked by Stattic, a signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) signaling inhibitor. These results suggest that Lif deficiency inhibits iron transportation in the maturation-stage ameloblasts, and Lif modulates expression of Tfrc and Slc40a1 through the Stat3 signaling pathway during enamel development.

Luteoloside Ameliorates Palmitic Acid-Induced in Vitro Model of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease via Activating STAT3-Triggered Hepatocyte Regeneration

Luteoloside (Lute), a bioactive natural ingredient, widely exists in nature and possesses hepatoprotective and hepatocyte proliferation-promoting properties. This study aimed to investigate whether Lute could counteract non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)-caused hepatocyte damage via its stimulation of hepatocyte regeneration efficacy and to explore the involved mechanism. LO2 cells and primary hepatocytes were used to examine the hepatocyte proliferation effects of Lute under physiological conditions and in the palmitic acid (PA)- induced in vitro model of NAFLD. STAT3 and cell cycle-related proteins (cyclin D1, c-myc and p21) were evaluated by Western blot. Under physiological conditions, LO2 cells and primary hepatocytes treated with various concentration of Lute for 12 and 24 h showed increased hepatocyte proliferation, especially with 20 μM treatment for 24 h. More notably, under the model conditions, co-incubation with 20 μM of Lute also markedly reversed PA-induced inhibition of cell proliferation and viability in primary hepatocytes. Mechanistically, Lute could activate STAT3 and subsequently increase cyclin D1 and cmyc expression, which positively regulates cell cycle progression, and decrease expression of p21, an inhibitor of cell cycle progression. Furthermore, Luteinduced hepatocyte proliferation-promoting efficacy was abolished by STAT3 inhibitor stattic. Collectively, Lute can alleviate PA-induced hepatocyte damage via activating STAT3-mediated hepatocyte regeneration.

DNA Methylation Biomarkers Predict Objective Responses to PD-1/PD-L1 Inhibition Blockade

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment could bring long-lasting clinical benefits to patients with metastatic cancer. However, only a small proportion of patients respond to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade, so predictive biomarkers are needed. Here, based on DNA methylation profiles and the objective response rates (ORRs) of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibition therapy, we identified 269 CpG sites and developed an initial CpG-based model by Lasso to predict ORRs. Notably, as measured by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), our model can produce better performance (AUC = 0.92) than both a model based on tumor mutational burden (TMB) (AUC = 0.77) and a previously reported TMB model (AUC = 0.71). In addition, most CpGs also have additional synergies with TMB, which can achieve a higher prediction accuracy when joined with TMB. Furthermore, we identified CpGs that are associated with TMB at the individual level. DNA methylation modules defined by protein networks, Kyoto Encylopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, and ligand-receptor gene pairs are also associated with ORRs. This method suggested novel immuno-oncology targets that might be beneficial when combined with PD-1/PD-L1 blockade. Thus, DNA methylation studies might hold great potential for individualized PD1/PD-L1 blockade or combinatory therapy.

Multilocus sequence typing analysis of Candida africana from vulvovaginal candidiasis

BACKGROUND

Candida africana is distributed worldwide and colonized in human genitalia and cause mainly vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). We report the multilocus sequence typing (MLST) analysis of C. africana from VVC.

METHODS

MLST analysis of 43 strains of C. africana, which were isolated from vaginal specimens of patients with VVC, was performed. The enzymatic activity of phospholipase, esterase and haemolysis enzyme production was evaluated.The level of virulent genes and resistant genes mRNA expression was determined by using real-time PCR. Antifungal susceptibilities of the isolates were assayed by using the broth microdilution method. The statistical of the results was determined by the T test and Pearson chi-squared test.

RESULTS

The MLST analysis revealed a substantial degree of genetic homogeneity. The DST782 and DST182 were the main MLST genotypes in C. africana. All the patients were symptomatic and with a high mycological cure rate when treated with commonly used antifungal agents.There were statistically significant differences in biofilm formation and phospholipase activity between C. africana and C.albicans. The level of virulent genes and resistant genes mRNA expression was higher in fluconazole-resistant strains. All C. africana isolates were susceptible to fluconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole, caspofungin, and micafungin. These isolates also exhibited low MICs to amphotericin B, flucytosine, and posaconazole.

CONCLUSIONS

Candida africana appear to be with a low level of sequence variation in MLST loci. Candida africana, a lower virulence candida, is susceptible to commonly used antifungal agents. This paper was presented at the conference of 8th Trend in Medical Mycology (6-9 October 2017, Belgrade, Serbia) and was published on conference abstract.

[Analysis on funds application of community based organizations involved in HIV/AIDS response and government financial investment in China, 2014]

Objective: To understand the government financial investments to community based organizations (CBO) involved in HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention of China and its influencing factors. Methods: Questionnaire of the situation of CBO involved in HIV/AIDS control and prevention were designed, and filled by the staff of Provincial Health Administrative Departments of 31 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities). The research focused on the fields of CBO involved in HIV/AIDS response in 31 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities), including intervention on HIV/AIDS high risk population (female sex worker (FSW), man who sex with man (MSM), drug user (DU) and case management and care for people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH)). 29 valid questionnaires were collecting, with Shanxi Province and Inner Mongolia Autonomous Regions not filled. Questionnaire included financial supports from local governments, transfer payment from central government for CBO involved in HIV/AIDS response in 2014, and unit cost for CBO involved in HIV/AIDS control and prevention. Multivariate analysis was conducted on the project application and financial investment of community based organizations involved in HIV/AIDS control and prevention in 2014. Results: The total amount of CBO to apply for participation in AIDS prevention and control was 64 482 828 Yuan in 2014. The actual total amount of investment was 50 616 367 Yuan, The investment came from the central government funding, the provincial level government funding, the prefecture and county level government funding investment and other sources of funding. 22 of 28 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) received the funds from the central government finance, and median of investment funds 500 000 Yuan. 15 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) gained the funds from the provincial government finance, and median of investment funds 350 000 Yuan. 12 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) got the funds from the prefecture and county level government finance, and median of investment funds 408 750 Yuan. 12 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) acquired the funds from other sources, and median of investment funds 228 400 Yuan. The median (P(25), P(75)) unit costs of intervention for FSW from 16 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) was 70 (23, 280) Yuan per year; DU from 14 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) was 83 (44, 200 ) Yuan per year; MSM from 16 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) was 100 (35, 280) Yuan per year; the follow-up and care for PLWH from 17 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) was 200 (45, 500) Yuan per year. Multivariate linear regression analysis results showed that the amount of PLWH in 2014 influenced on the total number of application funds of CBO involved in HIV/AIDS response (b=178.11, 95% CI: 51.86-305.36) and the amount of PLWH (b=77.72, 95% CI: 16.28-139.16), and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita of the province (b=36.20, 95% CI: 4.60-67.80) impacted financial investment to CBO involved in HIV/AIDS response, respectively. Conclusion: Funds application and financial investment of CBO involved in HIV/AIDS control and prevention were huge. Financial investment from government was main resources for CBO in 2014. The amount of financial investment funds from governments was influenced by the HIV/AIDS epidemic situation and the development level of local economic.

[Pathological insights of radiotherapy-related damage to surgical margin after preoperative radiotherapy in patients with rectal cancer]

Objective: To investigate the effect of irradiation to anastomosis from preoperative radiotherapy for patients with rectal cancer by studying the pathological changes. Methods: In this retrospective study, patients enrolled in the FOWARC study from January 2011 to July 2014 in the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University were included. In the FOWARC study, enrolled patients with local advanced rectal cancer were randomly assigned to receive either neoadjuvant chemo-radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Among these patients, 23 patients were selected as radiation proctitis (RP)group, who fulfilled these conditions: (1) received neoadjuvant chemo-radiotherapy followed by sphincter-preserving surgery; (2) developed radiation proctitis as confirmed by preoperative imaging diagnosis; (3) had intact clinical samples of surgical margins. Twenty-three patients who had received neoadjuvant chemo-radiotherapy but without development of radiation proctitis were selected as non-radiation proctitis (nRP) group. Meanwhile, 23 patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy only were selected as neoadjuvant chemotherapy (CT) group. Both nRP and CT cases were selected by ensuring the basic characteristics such as sex, age, tumor site, lengths of proximal margin and distal margin all maximally matched to the RP group. Both proximal and distal margins were collected for further analysis for all selected cases. Microscopy slices were prepared for hematoxylin & eosin staining and Masson staining to show general pathological changes, and also for immunohistochemistry with anti-CD-34 as primary antibody to reveal the microvessel. Microvessel counting in submucosal layer and proportion of macrovessel with stenosis were used to evaluate the blood supply of the proximal and distal end of anastomosis. A modified semi-quantitative grading approach was used to evaluate the severity of radiation-induced injury. Either ANOVA analysis, Kruskal-Wallis rank-sum test or χ(2) test was used for comparison among three groups, and Mann-Whitney U test was used for comparison between two groups. Results: Compared to group of neoadjuvant chemotherapy only, patients receiving neoadjuvant chemo-radiotherapy had lower microvessel count in both proximal and distal margins (M(Q(R)): proximal, 25.5 (19.6) vs. 50.0 (25.0), Z=3.915, P=0.000; distal, 20.5 (17.5) vs. 49.0 (28.0), Z=3.558, P=0.000), higher proportions of macrovessel with stenosis (proximal, 9.5% (23.8%) vs. 0, Z=3.993, P=0.000; distal, 11.5%(37.3%) vs. 0 (2.0%), Z=2.893, P=0.004), higher histopathologic score (proximal, 4.0 (2.0) vs. 1.0 (2.0), Z=6.123, P=0.000; distal, 5.0 (3.0) vs. 2.0 (1.0), Z=4.849, P=0.000). In patients receiving neoadjuvant chemo-radiotherapy, compared to nRP group, RP group had lower microvessel count in both proximal and distal margins (proximal, 19.0 (23.0) vs. 30.4 (38.0), Z=2.845, P=0.004; distal, 19.0 (13.0) vs. 30.0(29.1), Z=2.022, P=0.043), higher proportions of macrovessel with stenosis (proximal, 23.0% (40.0%) vs. 0(11.0%), Z=3.248, P=0.001; distal, 27.0% (45.0%) vs. 3.0% (19.0%), Z=2.164, P=0.030). Rate of anastomotic leakage for CT, nRP and RP group were 8.7% (2/23), 30.4% (7/23), and 52.2% (12/23), and the differences among three groups were statistically significant (χ(2)=10.268, P=0.007). Conclusion: Radiation-induced injury existed on both margins of the resected rectal site after preoperative radiotherapy, and those diagnosed as radiation proctitis had more severe microvascular injury.

[Risk for metastasis of lymph node between sternocleidomastoid and sternohyoid muscle in papillary thyroid cancer]

Objective: To analyze the risk factors for metastasis of lymph nodes between sternocleidomastoid and sternohyoid muscle (LNSS) in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). Methods: Papillary thyroid cancer patients with clinically positive lateral lymph node metastasis (cN1) who underwent surgery including LNSS dissection between May 1, 2013 and May 31, 2016 at the Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center were retrospectively studied. Logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate possible clinicopathological factors related to LNSS metastasis. Results: In 85 patients, 54 patients (63.5%) showed LNSS in their surgical specimen, and 20 patients (23.5%) had pathologically positive LNSS metastasis. Patients with LNSS showed preoperatively higher levels of serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO-Ab) compared to patients only with fibrofatty tissues between sternocleidomastoid and sternohyoid muscle (P<0.05), and they also displayed a higher proportion of multifocality in ipsilateral thyroid lobe (P<0.05). Multi-factor analysis indicated that LNSS metastasis was correlated with original tumor size (OR=1.819, 95%CI 1.050-3.850, P=0.002) and Level Ⅳ lymph node metastasis (OR=2.190, 95%CI 1.132-2.334, P=0.005). Furthermore, the number of positive LNSS was tightly correlated to that of level Ⅳ lymph node metastasis(P<0.05). Conclusion: LNSS metastasis is occult but not quite rare in PTC. Patients with extensive lymph node metastasis in Level Ⅳhave a higher risk for metastasis of LNSS.

A case report of fetal malignant immature mediastinal teratoma

PURPOSE

Fetal immature mediastinal teratoma is a rare disease. The pressure generated by the tumor mass can cause hydrops fetalis, pulmonary hypoplasia, pleural and peritoneal effusion, and polyhydramnios which cause the death of the fetus. Routine prenatal ultrasound has enabled accurate diagnosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors report a 26-year-old patient, gravida 4 para 1, who was referred to this hospital, carrying a fetus with immature mediastinal teratoma.

RESULTS

At 27 weeks of gestation, a routine prenatal ultrasound suggested the fetus had a mass at the anterior mediastinum, accompanied by pulmonary hypoplasia, pleural and peritoneal effusion, subcutaneous edema of head and chest, and polyhydramnios. After the therapeutic abortion, the gross anatomy confirmed the mediastinal mass. The histological examination showed that the mass was a grade 2 immature teratoma.

CONCLUSIONS

The mother of the fetus had been exposed to plaster, paint, and paint-thinner in the first trimester of pregnancy, suggesting that these chemical contacts may be one of the causes of the disorder.

Effectiveness of rubber seed oil and flaxseed oil to enhance the α-linolenic acid content in milk from dairy cows

This experiment was conducted to investigate effect of rubber seed oil compared with flaxseed oil when fed alone or in combination on milk yield, milk composition, and α-linolenic acid (ALA) concentration in milk of dairy cows. Forty-eight mid-lactation Holstein dairy cows were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 treatments according to a completely randomized design. Cows were fed a basal diet (control; CON) or a basal diet supplemented with 4% rubber seed oil (RO), 4% flaxseed oil (FO), or 2% rubber seed oil plus 2% flaxseed oil (RFO) on a dry matter basis for 9 wk. Feed intake, milk protein percentage, and milk fat levels did not differ between the treatments. Cows fed the RO, FO, or RFO treatments had a higher milk yield than the CON group (up to 10.5% more), whereas milk fat percentages decreased. Compared with the CON, milk concentration of ALA was substantially higher in cows receiving RO or RFO, and was doubled in cows receiving FO. The ALA yield (g/d) increased by 31.0, 70.3, and 33.4% in milk from cows fed RO, FO, or RFO, respectively, compared with the CON. Both C18:1 trans-11 (vaccenic acid) and C18:2 cis-9,trans-11 (conjugated linoleic acid; CLA) levels were higher in cows fed added flaxseed or rubber seed oil. The CLA yield (g/d) increased by 336, 492, and 484% in cows fed RO, FO, or RFO, respectively, compared with the CON. The increase in vaccenic acid, ALA, and CLA was greater in cows fed RFO than in cows fed RO alone. Compared with the CON, the milk fat from cows fed any of the dietary supplements had a higher concentration of unsaturated fatty acids, monounsaturated fatty acids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids; conversely, the saturated fatty acids levels in milk fat were 30.5% lower. Insulin and growth hormones were not affected by dietary treatments; however, we noted an increase in both cholesterol and nonesterified fatty acids levels in the RO, FO, or RFO treatments. These results indicate that rubber seed oil and flaxseed oil will increase milk production and the concentration of functional fatty acids (ALA, vaccenic acid, and CLA) in milk fat while decreasing the content of saturated fatty acids.

[Diffusion-weighted imaging characteristics of uterine leiomyomas with different pathological subtypes at 3.0 T]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the imaging features of uterine leiomyomas with different pathological subtypes on DWI.

METHODS

Clinical records and MR images of pathologically confirmed uterine leiomyomas were retrospectively collected from the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from June 2012 to April 2015. A total of 60 uterine leiomyomas were found and evaluated.All the patients were divided into three groups according to different pathological types, which included 17 cases of cellular leiomyomas, 10 cases of degenerated leiomyomas and 33 cases of ordinary leiomyomas.The DWI signal and ADC values in cellular portion of the lesions and adjacent normal myometrium (the control group) were measured.

RESULTS

(1) Most cellular leiomyomas showed hyperintensity on DWI (15/17), while degenerated leiomyomas manifested hypointensity, isointensity or hyperintensity signal on DWI, and most ordinary leiomyomas displayed isointensity signal on DWI (57.6%, 19/33). (2) The ADC values of cellular leiomyomas, degenerated leiomyomas and ordinary leiomyomas were (1.01±0.14)×10(-3) mm(2)/s, (1.73±0.49)×10(-3) mm(2)/s and (1.38±0.22)×10(-3) mm(2)/s respectively.The ADC values of adjacent normal myometrium (the control group) were (1.35±0.16)×10(-3) mm(2)/s.There were no significant statistical differences in the ADC values between ordinary leiomyomas and adjacent normal myometrium (P=0.623). There were significant statistical differences in the ADC values among other groups(all P<0.05). (3)The ROC curve showed that the diagnostic threshold for cellular leiomyomas was 1.11×10(-3) mm(2)/s, the sensitivity and specificity were 88.2%and 93.0% respectively.

CONCLUSION

The signal intensity on DWI and the ADC values are different in uterine leiomyomas with different pathological subtypes.Combination of these two parameters in clinical practice may be helpful to reflect the histopathological characteristics of uterine leiomyomas.

Panel sequencing for clinically oriented variant screening and copy number detection in 142 untreated multiple myeloma patients

We employed a customized Multiple Myeloma (MM)-specific Mutation Panel (M³P) to screen a homogenous cohort of 142 untreated MM patients for relevant mutations in a selection of disease-specific genes. M³Pv2.0 includes 77 genes selected for being either actionable targets, potentially related to drug–response or part of known key pathways in MM biology. We identified mutations in potentially actionable genes in 49% of patients and provided prognostic evidence of STAT3 mutations. This panel may serve as a practical alternative to more comprehensive sequencing approaches, providing genomic information in a timely and cost-effective manner, thus allowing clinically oriented variant screening in MM.

An unusual ovarian neoplasm diagnosed in a patient with rupture of unicornuate uterus during pregnancy: a case report

Unicornuate uterus is a rare disease characterized with reduced fertility, and ovarian tumor diagnosed during pregnancy is uncommon as well. These two diseases have been reported separately. However, patient suffering from both diseases has never been reported before. The authors herein report a case of a 32-year-old Chinese woman presenting with a unicornuate uterus with no horn, who suffered from acute abdominal pain and intra-abdominal hemorrhage at 26 weeks gestation. Incidentally, a borderline ovarian tumor (BOT) and rupture of uterus were found during an urgent exploratory laparotomy. During the follow-up, ovarian tumor recurred in the first year after the operation. The authors suggest that BOT with micropapillary patterns should be paid much more attention to, other than only assessing the histological type. Furthermore, they also suggest that a slightly increased in serum CA-125 value should not be ignored.

Impact of adherence to GOLD guidelines on 6-minute walk distance, MRC dyspnea scale score, lung function decline, quality of life, and quality-adjusted life years in a Shanghai suburb

We performed a 1-year cluster-randomized field trial to assess the effect of standardized management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) on lung function and quality of life (QOL) measures in patients in China. We used the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) treatment guidelines and assessed indexes including pulmonary function, QOL, quality-adjusted life years (QALY), Medical Research Council (MRC) dyspnea scale, 6-min walk distance (6-MWD), number of emergency visits, and frequency of hospitalization. Of a total of 711 patients with chronic cough and asthma, 132 were diagnosed as having COPD and 102 participated in this study [intervention group (N = 47); control group (N = 55)]. We found that adherence to GOLD guidelines had a perceivable impact on 6-MWD, MRC dyspnea scale score, and QOL. The average QALY increased by 1.42/person/year in the intervention group, but declined by 0.95/person/year in the control group. We conclude that standardized management improves disease severity, QOL, and QALY in COPD patients when treatment protocols adhere to GOLD guidelines.

Cereblon binding molecules in multiple myeloma

Immunomodulation is an established treatment strategy in multiple myeloma with thalidomide and its derivatives lenalidomide and pomalidomide as its FDA approved representatives. Just recently the method of action of these cereblon binding molecules was deciphered and results from large phase 3 trials confirmed the backbone function of this drug family in various combination therapies. This review details the to-date knowledge concerning mechanism of IMiD action, clinical applications and plausible escape mechanisms in which cells may become resistant/refractory to cereblon binding molecule based treatment.

Glucagon-induced angiogenesis and tumor growth through the HIF-1-VEGF-dependent pathway in hyperglycemic nude mice

In this study, we examined the effect glucagon-induced hyperglycemia on tumor growth as well as the role of the hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1)-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway in this condition. A high concentration of glucose (HG) was utilized to treat HeLa cells under hypoxic or normoxic conditions, and transcriptional levels of HIF-1, VEGF, and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were evaluated. Moreover, the ability of an HIF-1 inhibitor to block the effect induced by HG was examined. By contrast, hyperglycemia was induced in nude mice by glucagon released from an osmotic pump, and microvessel density was determined with CD31 staining. Thus, the relationship among hyperglycemia, microvessel density, tumor growth, and the HIF-1 inhibitor were analyzed. We found that HG increased transcription of the VEGF gene, which is downstream of HIF-1. Moreover, HG impaired the function of HIF-1 inhibitors [HIF-1 small interfering RNA (siRNA) and berberine] to affect the VEGF transcription level in tumor cells. By contrast, hyperglycemia increased tumor microvessel density and promoted tumor growth, which was inhibited by the HIF-1 inhibitor. However, hyperglycemia attenuated the effect of the HIF-1 inhibitor. Glucagon-induced hyperglycemia influenced tumor microenvironments through the HIF-1-VEGF-dependent pathway and promoted tumor growth and resistance to HIF-1 inhibition treatments.

Genome-wide studies in multiple myeloma identify XPO1/CRM1 as a critical target validated using the selective nuclear export inhibitor KPT-276

RNA interference screening identified XPO1 (exportin 1) among the 55 most vulnerable targets in multiple myeloma (MM). XPO1 encodes CRM1, a nuclear export protein. XPO1 expression increases with MM disease progression. Patients with MM have a higher expression of XPO1 compared with normal plasma cells (P<0.04) and to patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance/smoldering MM (P<0.0001). The highest XPO1 level was found in human MM cell lines (HMCLs). A selective inhibitor of nuclear export compound KPT-276 specifically and irreversibly inhibits the nuclear export function of XPO1. The viability of 12 HMCLs treated with KTP-276 was significantly reduced. KPT-276 also actively induced apoptosis in primary MM patient samples. In gene expression analyses, two genes of probable relevance were dysregulated by KPT-276: cell division cycle 25 homolog A (CDC25A) and bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4), both of which are associated with c-MYC pathway. Western blotting and reverse transcription-PCR confirm that c-MYC, CDC25A and BRD4 are all downregulated after treatment with KPT-276. KPT-276 reduced monoclonal spikes in the Vk*MYC transgenic MM mouse model, and inhibited tumor growth in a xenograft MM mouse model. A phase I clinical trial of an analog of KPT-276 is ongoing in hematological malignancies including MM.

Identification of direct forkhead box O1 targets involved in palmitate-induced apoptosis in clonal insulin-secreting cells using chromatin immunoprecipitation coupled to DNA selection and ligation

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

The transcription factor, forkhead box (FOX)O1, is involved in fatty acid-induced apoptosis in pancreatic beta cells, but the precise mechanism is poorly understood. We aimed to identify which direct downstream targets of FOXO1 are involved in palmitate-induced apoptosis in the pancreatic beta cell line MIN6.

METHODS

Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) coupled to a DNA selection and ligation technique (ChIP-DSL) was used to identify the direct targets of FOXO1. The mRNA level was examined by real-time PCR assay. The ChIP-DSL results were verified using ChIP-PCR and luciferase assay, respectively. The cell apoptosis rate was determined by TUNEL assay and by scoring cells with pycnotic nuclei.

RESULTS

We identified 189 target genes and selected 106 targets for expression analysis in MIN6 cells treated with palmitate. The results showed that six genes were significantly upregulated and four were downregulated. Binding of FOXO1 to the promoters was determined by ChIP-PCR and confirmed by luciferase assay. Among the ten up- and downregulated genes, mRNA expression of A930038C07Rik was significantly decreased and that of Ppa1 was increased in 8-week-old db/db mice. The apoptosis assay showed that overproduction of the protein 'RIKEN cDNA A930038C07' (A930038C07Rik) drastically enhanced palmitate-induced apoptosis, while pyrophosphatase (inorganic) 1 (PPA1) partially protected the cells from apoptosis. Knockdown of PPA1, moreover, significantly increased apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

We identified for the first time FOXO1 targets in MIN6 cells treated with palmitate, thus revealing the important roles of A930038C07Rik and PPA1 in palmitate-induced cell apoptosis. These results shed light on the mechanisms of palmitate-induced apoptosis in pancreatic beta cells.

Aberrant activation of liver X receptors impairs pancreatic beta cell function through upregulation of sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c in mouse islets and rodent cell lines

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Liver X receptors (LXR) are important transcriptional regulators of lipid and glucose metabolism. Our previous report demonstrated that LXR activation inhibited pancreatic beta cell proliferation through cell cycle arrest. Here we explore the role of LXR activation in beta cell insulin secretion and the underlying mechanism that might be involved.

METHODS

Mouse pancreatic islets or insulin-secreting MIN6 cells were exposed to the LXR agonist, T0901317, and insulin secretion, glucose and fatty acid oxidation, and lipogenic gene expression were assessed. The unsaturated fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid and the dominant negative sterol regulatory element binding protein 1c (SREBP1c) were used to inhibit endogenous SREBP1c and evaluate the involvement of SREBP1c in beta cell dysfunction induced by LXR activation.

RESULTS

Treatment with the LXR agonist decreased beta cell glucose sensitivity and impaired glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in vivo and in vitro. This was accompanied by derangements of beta cell glucose oxygen consumption, glucose oxidation, ATP production and intracellular voltage-gated calcium channel flux. LXR activation also regulated the expression of lipid metabolism-related genes such as Fas, Acc (also known as Acaca) and Cpt1a, and led to intracellular lipid accumulation. Further studies revealed that inhibition of SREBP1c abolished LXR activation-induced lipid accumulation and improved beta cell glucose metabolism, ATP production and insulin secretion.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Our data reveal that aberrant activation of LXR reproduced the phenomenon of beta cell dysfunction in the development of type 2 diabetes in vitro and in vivo. Upregulation of SREBP1c production and the lipotoxicity mediated by it played a central role in this process.

Adverse health effects of lead exposure on children and exploration to internal lead indicator

Our research on adverse effects of lead exposures on physical and neurobehavioral health of children aged 6-12years in 4 villages, labeled as K, M, L, and X, in rural China, was reported in this article. Lead in blood (PbB), urine (PbU), hairs (PbH), and nails (PbN) were measured by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. Abbreviated Symptom Questionnaire of Conner's instruments and Revised Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices were applied to evaluate childhood attention deficit/hyperactivity disorders (ADHD) and intelligences. Geometric means (SD) of PbB, PbU, PbH and PbN concentrations were 71.2 microg/L (1.56), 11.7 microg/g (1.75), 12.5 microg/g (2.82), and 25.3 microg/g (2.79), respectively. 54 (17.0%) children had PbB levels of > or =100 microg/L. Boys, 6-10 years old, and living in village K were 2.11, 2.48, and 9.16 times, respectively, more likely to be poisoned by lead than girls, aged 11-12 years, and residing in X. 18 (5.7%) and 37 (11.7%) subjects had ADHD and mental retardations, respectively. Inverse relationships between intelligences and natural log transformed PbU and PbH levels were observed with respective odds ratios (95%CI) of 1.79 (1.00-3.22) and 1.46 (1.06-2.03) or 1.28 (1.04-1.58) and 1.73 (1.18-2.52) by binary or ordinal logistic regression modeling. ADHD prevalence was different by gender and age of subjects. PbU, PbH, and PbN related to PbB positively with respective correlation coefficients of 0.530, 0.477, and 0.181. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of the three measurements revealed areas under curves (AUCs) being 0.829, 0.758, and 0.687, respectively. In conclusion, children had moderate levels of lead exposures in this rural area. Intelligence declines were associated with internal lead levels among children. ROC analysis suggests PbU an internal lead indicator close to PbB.

A decrease of human leucocyte antigen-DR expression on monocytes in peripheral blood predicts stroke-associated infection in critically-ill patients with acute stroke

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

To investigate changes in human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-DR expression on peripheral monocytes, determine the value of predicting the development of stroke-associated infection (SAI), and determine the correlation with other conditions in critically-ill patients in the neurological intensive care unit (NICU) who suffered an acute stroke.

METHODS

All patients were enrolled consecutively and admitted to NICU within 24 h after the onset of symptoms. Patients were followed in order to identify whether infection developed and determine survival status within 2 weeks after the stroke. Patients were divided into stroke or control group by study design, infection or non-infection group by whether or not they had an infection, survival or death group by prognosis and cerebral infarction or cerebral haemorrhage group by stroke type. Patients in which acute stroke was excluded by head CT or MRI were admitted to general ward and were used as a control group. Blood samples were collected serially on days 1, 2, 4, 6 and 14 after stroke, then monocyte human leucocyte antigen-DR (HLA-DR) expression was determined by flow cytometry. The National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHEII) and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores were recorded over the course of observation.

RESULTS

Fifty-three subjects and 39 controls were enrolled in the study. On days 1, 2, 4, 6 and 14, there was a significant difference in monocyte HLA-DR expression between stroke group and control group (all P < 0.001), but no difference was found between ischaemic stroke group and haemorrhagic stroke group (all P > 0.05). The infection group compared with non-infection group did not exhibit a significant difference in HLA-DR expression on days 1 and 2 (all P > 0.05), but significant differences emerged on days 4, 6 and 14 (all P < 0.01). On days 1 and 2 the HLA-DR expression in the survival group compared with death group, was not significantly different (all P > 0.05), but differences became significant on days 4 and 6 (P < 0.01). On day 1, HLA-DR expression <62.80% had the predictive value to SAI (sensitivity 83.3%, specificity 55.2%, AUC = 0.661, P = 0.031) and on day 2, HLA-DR expression <57.83% had the predictive value to SAI (sensitivity 95.8%, specificity 79.3%, AUC = 0.907, P = 0.000) in acute stroke patients. A statistically significant inverse correlation was found between NIHSS and HLA-DR on days 2 and 4 during the observation period (all P < 0.01), but there was no statistically significant negative correlation on days 1, 6 or 14 (all P > 0.05). HLA-DR expression did not correlate with APACHEII (all P > 0.05) or GCS (all P > 0.05) during the measurement period.

CONCLUSIONS

Human leucocyte antigen-DR (HLA-DR) expression decreases and sustains a dynamic change and it also relates to the severity of patient's condition in the critically-ill patients with stroke. Progressively persistent low monocyte HLA-DR expression is associated with a poor prognosis. The decline in HLA-DR expression contributes to infection in critically-acute stroke patients. Monitoring of monocyte HLA-DR expression may be useful for identifying patients suffering from acute stroke who are at high risk for infection.

Activation of liver X receptors inhibits pancreatic islet beta cell proliferation through cell cycle arrest

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Liver X receptors (LXRs) are important transcriptional regulators of lipid homeostasis and proliferation in several cell types. However, the roles of LXRs in pancreatic beta cells have not been fully established. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of LXRs on pancreatic beta cell proliferation.

METHODS

Gene expression was analysed using real-time RT-PCR. Transient transfection and reporter gene assays were used to determine the transcriptional activity of LXRs in pancreatic beta cells. Cell viability and proliferation were analysed using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), DNA fluorometric, BrdU labelling and [(3)H]thymidine incorporation assays. Cell cycle distribution was investigated by flow cytometry analysis. Adenovirus-based RNA interference was used to knockdown LXRalpha, LXRbeta and p27 in MIN6 cells and mouse islets.

RESULTS

We found that both Lxralpha (also known as Nr1h3) and Lxrbeta (also known as Nr1h2) were expressed and transactivated the LXR response element in HIT-T15 and MIN6 cells. Activation of LXRs dose-dependently inhibited pancreatic beta cell viability and proliferation. This was accompanied by beta cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase. Furthermore, LXR activation increased levels of the p27 protein by inhibiting its degradation. Knockdown of p27 reversed these effects of LXR activation on growth inhibition and cell cycle arrest.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Our observations indicate that LXR activation inhibits pancreatic beta cell proliferation through cell cycle arrest. A well-known regulator of pancreatic beta cell cycle progression, p27, is upregulated and mediates the effects of LXRs on growth inhibition in beta cells. These observations suggest the involvement of aberrant activation of LXR in beta cell mass inadequacy, which is an important step in the development of type 2 diabetes.

High frequency of level II-V lymph node involvement in RET/PTC positive papillary thyroid carcinoma

AIMS

To investigate the frequency and clinical significance of RET rearrangement in Chinese patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and discuss the role of RET rearrangement in therapeutic decision-making after the performance of level VI lymph node dissection and the 2002 AJCC staging system.

METHODS

RET/PTC-1 and RET/PTC-3 were detected in 126 PTCs using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and direct sequencing.

RESULTS

RET rearrangement was detected in 18 cases of PTC. The patient group aged < 20 years had the highest frequency (3/6) of RET rearrangement among the age groups (< 20 years, 20-40 years and > or = 40 years; P=0.03). RET/PTC-1 positive patients were more likely to suffer from Hashimoto's thyroiditis simultaneously (P=0.02) while RET/PTC-3 positive patients had a higher frequency of extrathyroidal extension (P<0.01) and advanced T classification (P<0.01). RET rearrangement (OR=8.70, 95% CI 1.69-44.81), male (OR=3.88, 95% CI 1.41-10.69), age (OR=0.96, 95% CI 0.93-0.99), multifocality (OR=3.54, 95% CI 1.33-9.41) and advanced T classification (OR=7.32, 95% CI 2.91-18.40) were all identified as risk factors of level II-V lymph node involvement in the multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The frequency of RET rearrangement in Chinese patients is low and age related. RET/PTC-1 and RET/PTC-3 are associated with different clinical pathological characteristics but not with lymph node involvement. The RET/PTC positive patients should receive more attention to lateral neck in the management of PTC.

A combined DNA vaccine-prime, BCG-boost strategy results in better protection against Mycobacterium bovis challenge

In this study, we demonstrated that calves vaccinated with a combined DNA vaccine encoding Ag85B, MPT- 64, and MPT-83 antigens from the Mycobacterium tuberculosis for the priming and subsequently boosting with BCG prior to experimental challenge with virulent Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis) resulted in improved immune responses over immunizing. Vaccination with the combined DNA/BCG induced higher levels of antigen- specific gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) in whole-blood cultures 4 weeks after final vaccination and the level of antigen-specific IFN-gamma in response to Ag85, MPT-64, and MPT-83 were still higher 4 weeks after challenge when compared to the combined DNA group. There was a significant bias toward induction of CD4+ T cells rather than CD8+ T cells responses, and the mean percentage of CD4+ T cells was increased about 2.6-fold in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) cultures in DNA prime-BCG boost vaccination when compared to the nonvaccinated group. In addition, DNA prime-BCG boost vaccination resulted in stronger humoral immune responses, and the levels of the specific antibodies to three antigens were increased two- to 32- fold when compared to the combined DNA group. Vaccination with the combined DNA/BCG induced a high level of protection against an intratracheal challenge with virulent M. bovis, based on a significant enhancement of six pathological and microbiological parameters of protection compared to the nonvaccinated group. Finally, the combined DNA/BCG increased the protective efficacy by more than 10-100-fold as measured by reduced CFU counts in the lungs from calves challenged with M. bovis compared to the combined DNA and BCG groups. These results suggest that use of the prime-boost strategy offers better protection against bovine tuberculosis than does the combined DNA vaccines and BCG.

Coadministration of Interleukin 2 Plasmid DNA with Combined DNA Vaccines Significantly Enhances the Protective Efficacy AgainstMycobacterium tuberculosis

Coadministration of interleukin 2(IL-2) plasmid DNA with combined DNA vaccines enhanced Th1-type cellular responses by producing higher amounts of IFN-gamma with a higher ratio of antigen-specific IgG2a/IgG1. The IFN-gamma specific for Ag85B, MPT64, and MPT83 in this group was 415, 267, and 255 U/ml, respectively, and was 1.6-, 1.8-, and 2.5-fold higher than that of the same vaccine without adding IL-2. The IgG2a/IgG1 ratio for Ag85B, MPT64, and MPT83 was 4, 8, and 4, respectively, upon addition of the genetic adjuvant in the DNA vaccine, which was four times higher for every antigen when IL-2 was not included. Fluorescence activated cell sorter (FACS) analysis showed that, in the presence of IL-2, CD8+ and CD4+ T cells increased significantly, whereas in the absence of the genetic adjuvant, only a mild increase was observed for CD8+ T cells compared to the vector DNA-treated group. Bacterial CFU was reduced to less than 1/100 in the lung and to about 1/10 in the spleen relative to the same combined DNA vaccine without IL-2. The lungs of this group of mice showed much less damage due to an influx of epithelioid macrophages and less lymphocytes. RT-PCR showed that antigen genes could be detected in more organs and for a longer period of time when treated with combined DNA vaccine formulated in IL-2. We suggest that IL-2 enhanced the immunigencity and protective efficacy in immunized mice by improving the Th1-type response and also by prolonging the antigen gene expression in different organs.

Combined DNA vaccine encapsulated in microspheres enhanced protection efficacy against Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection of mice

In a study to develop novel vaccination strategies against tuberculosis, we encapsulated DNA encoding Ag85B, MPT-64 and MPT-83 antigens mixed with dimethyldioctyldecyl ammonium bromide (DDA) into biodegradable poly(dl-lactide-co-glycolide, PLGA) microspheres. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis demonstrated a uniform microsphere population with a mean diameter of <5microm. Using RT-PCR we were able to demonstrate antigen gene expression in selected tissue. Moreover, in mice injected with PLGA encapsulated DNA, the levels of expression appeared to be higher comparing to those injected with non-encapsulated DNA. Also, C57BL/6 mice immunized with a single dose of PLGA encapsulated DNA produced increased levels of IFN-gamma in the supernatant of spleen cells when cultured in the presence of the recombinant antigens. High levels of specific IgG antibody against the three antigens were also observed. In vaccine/challenge experiments, mice receiving a single dose of PLGA encapsulated DNA were protected against Mycobacterium tuberculosis challenge at levels comparable to groups of mice immunized with three doses of non-encapsulated DNA vaccine or with Mycobacterium bovis BCG.

Combined DNA vaccines formulated either in DDA or in saline protect cattle from Mycobacterium bovis infection

We tested the effectiveness of combined DNA vaccines encoding antigens Ag85B, MPT64 and MPT83 from Mycobacterium tuberculosis on cattle. Our results showed that calves treated with combined DNA vaccines in the presence of dimethyldioctyldecyl ammonium bromide (DDA) or saline elicited a strong gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) response 1 or 2 months after the third vaccination. All three antigens induced substantial levels of IFN-gamma production 1 month after the bacterial challenge, when the BCG-driven IFN-gamma levels dropped to less than one third of their peak values. Animals receiving combined DNA vaccines produced highest amounts of IgG antibody titer 2 months after the third vaccination. Steady state low IgG levels were found 2 months after bacterial challenge. A few small lung and lymph node lesions were detected in 1/5 animals treated with combined DNA vaccines, whereas 3/5 of BCG-treated and 5/5 of vector-control calves showed larger and significantly more lesions. About 70- to 100-fold fewer bacteria were found in the lungs and lymph nodes of combined DNA vaccine-treated animals compared to those of the control group. Histopathological analyses showed that vaccinated calves possessed substantially improved post-infection lung and lymph node pathology relative to the controls. Our data indicate that combined DNA vaccines may be used in cattle to combat bovine tuberculosis.

Uniformly carbon-covered alumina and its surface characteristics

Uniformly carbon-covered alumina (CCA) was prepared via the carbonization of sucrose highly dispersed on the alumina surface. The CCA samples were characterized by XRD, XPS, DTA-TG, UV Raman, nitrogen adsorption experiments at 77 K, and rhodamine B (RB) adsorption in aqueous media. UV Raman spectra indicated that the carbon species formed were probably conjugated olefinic or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which can be considered molecular subunits of a graphitic plane. The N(2) adsorption isotherms, pore size distributions, and XPS results indicated that carbon was uniformly dispersed on the alumina surface in the as-prepared CCA. The carbon coverage and number of carbon layers in CCA could be controlled by the tuning of the sucrose content in the precursor and impregnation times. RB adsorption isotherms suggested that the monolayer adsorption capacity of RB on alumina increased drastically for the sample with uniformly dispersed carbon. The as-prepared CCA possessed the texture of alumina and the surface properties of carbon or both carbon and alumina depending on the carbon coverage.

Combined DNA Vaccines Formulated in DDA Enhance Protective Immunity against Tuberculosis

This study evaluated the adjuvant Dimethyldioctyldecyl Ammonium Bromide (DDA) effect on the protective immunity induced by a combination of plasmids containing genes encoding antigens Ag85B, MPT-83, and ESAT-6 from Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The combined DNA vaccines in DDA resulted in significant increases in both specific IgG and splenic T-cell-derived Th1-type cytokine gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) production in response to the three purified antigens when compared to that of combined DNA vaccines in saline. Vaccines in DDA increased the protective efficacy of mice challenged with M. tuberculosis H37Rv as measured by reduced relative CFU counts in their lungs. Mice immunized with the combined DNA vaccines were shown to limit the growth of tubercle bacilli both in lungs and in spleens. Histopathological analyses showed that vaccinated mice had substantially improved postinfection lung pathology relative to the controls. We suggest that our combination of antigens together with DDA formulation may provide a new insight into tuberculosis prevention.

HACS1 encodes a novel SH3-SAM adaptor protein differentially expressed in normal and malignant hematopoietic cells

SH3 and SAM domains are protein interaction motifs that are predominantly seen in signaling molecules, adaptors, and scaffold proteins. We have identified a novel family of putative adaptor genes that includes HACS1. HACS1 encodes a 441 amino acid protein that is differentially expressed in hematopoietic cells and has restricted expression in human tissues. Its SH3 domain is most similar to the same motif in Crk and its SAM domain shares homology with a family of uncharacterized putative scaffold and adaptor proteins. HACS1 maps to human chromosome 21q11.2 in a region that is frequently disrupted by translocation events in hematopoietic malignancies. Polyclonal antibodies against HACS1 recognized a 49.5 kDa protein whose mRNA is expressed in human immune tissues, bone marrow, heart, lung, placenta and brain. Cell lines and primary cells from acute myeloid leukemias and multiple myeloma patients express HACS1. Immunostaining and cellular fractionation studies localized the HACS1 protein predominantly to the cytoplasm.

Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation of rice with the spider insecticidal gene conferring resistance to leaffolder and striped stem borer

Immature embryos of rice varieties "Xiushuill" and "Chunjiang 11" precultured for 4d were infected and transformed by Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain EHA101/pExT7 (containing the spider insecticidal gene). The resistant calli were transferred onto the differentiation medium and plants were regenerated. The transformation frequency reached 56% approximately 72% measured as numbers of Geneticin (G418)-resistant calli produced and 36% approximately 60% measured as numbers of transgenic plants regenerated, respectively. PCR and Southern blot analysis of transgenic plants confirmed that the T-DNA had been integrated into the rice genome. Insect bioassays using T1 transgenic plants indicated that the mortality of the leaffolder (Cnaphalocrasis medinalis) after 7d of leaf feeding reached 38% approximately 61% and the corrected mortality of the striped stem borer (Chilo suppressalis) after 7d of leaf feeding reached 16% approximately 75%. The insect bioassay results demonstrated that the transgenic plants expressing the spider insecticidal protein conferred enhanced resistance to these pests.

The myeloma-associated oncogene fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 is transforming in hematopoietic cells

Translocations involving fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (fgfr3) have been identified in about 25% of patients with myeloma. To directly examine the oncogenic potential of fgfr3, murine bone marrow (BM) cells were transduced with retroviral vectors containing either wild-type fgfr3 or an activated mutant form of the receptor, fgfr3-TD. Mice transplanted with FGFR3-TD-expressing BM developed a marked leukocytosis and lethal hematopoietic cell infiltration of multiple tissues within 6 weeks of transplantation. Secondary and tertiary recipients of spleen or BM from primary fgfr3-TD mice also developed tumors within 6 to 8 weeks. Analysis of the circulating tumor cells revealed a pre-B-cell phenotype in most mice, although immature T-lymphoid or mature myeloid populations also predominated in some animals. Enhanced lymphoid but not myeloid colony formation was observed in the early posttransplantation period and only interleukin 7 and FGF-responsive pre-B-cell lines could be established from tumors. Cell expansions in primary recipients appeared polyclonal, whereas tumors in later passages exhibited either clonal B- or T-cell receptor gene rearrangements. Mice transplanted with wild-type FGFR3-expressing BM developed delayed pro-B-cell lymphoma/leukemias approximately 1 year after transplantation. These studies confirm that FGFR3 is transforming and can produce lymphoid malignancies in mice.

TALE homeoproteins as HOX11-interacting partners in T-cell leukemia

The mammalian PBX and Meis proteins belong to the TALE (three-amino acid-loop-extension) superfamily of homeodomain-containing transcription factors. Members of both the PBX and Meis groups have been implicated in tumorigenesis and are known to cooperatively bind DNA with Class I (clustered) HOX homeoproteins. Here we show that PBX and Meis homeoproteins cooperatively bind the PBX-responsive sequence in vitro with the oncoprotein encoded by the non-clustered homeobox gene HOX11 activated by the t(10;14)(q24;q11) chromosomal translocation in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). An FPWME motif N-terminal to the homeodomain is required for interaction with PBX proteins, which appears to confer DNA-binding specificity to HOX11. PBX proteins are highly expressed in HOX11 immortalized/transformed hematopoietic cells; in particular, the 10q24 translocation-carrying T-ALL Sil and K3P lines were found to selectively express PBX2. Ectopic retroviral-directed overexpression of PBX2 in concert with HOX11 in NIH3T3 cells resulted in decreased contact inhibition of growth as evidenced by focus formation in confluent cell monolayers. The accumulated data are thus consistent with a role of TALE homeoproteins in HOX11-mediated leukemogenesis.

14-3-3zeta interacts with the alpha-chain of human interleukin 9 receptor

Interleukin 9 (IL-9) exerts its pleiotropic effects through the IL-9 receptor (IL-9R) complex, which consists of the IL-9R alpha-chain, which determines the cytokine specificity, and the IL-2 receptor gamma-chain. In the present study we used a modified yeast two-hybrid system to isolate cDNA species encoding proteins that interacted with the intracellular domain of the human IL-9R alpha-chain (hIL-9Ralpha). We have identified 14-3-3zeta as an hIL-9Ralpha-interacting protein. We also mapped residues 518-522 (Arg-Ser(519)-Trp-Thr(521)-Phe) in hIL-9Ralpha and helix I of 14-3-3zeta as being important for interaction. Moreover, peptide competition experi-ments suggested that interaction between hIL-9Ralpha and 14-3-3zeta requires the phosphorylation of Ser(519) or Thr(521). This is the first demonstration that 14-3-3 can interact with a non-tyrosine kinase receptor. The interaction between 14-3-3 and IL-9Ralpha but not IL-4Ralpha also suggests a potential role for 14-3-3 in determining cytokine specificity.

Tip60 interacts with human interleukin-9 receptor alpha-chain

Interleukin-9 (IL-9) exerts its pleiotropic effects through the IL-9 receptor (IL-9R) complex that consists of the ligand specific IL-9R alpha-chain, and the IL-2R gamma-chain. In this study, we used a modified yeast two-hybrid system to isolate cDNAs encoding proteins that interact with the intracellular domain of the human IL-9R alpha-chain (hIL-9Ralpha). We have identified Tip60, an HIV-1 Tat transcription cofactor, as an hIL-9Ralpha interacting protein. The interaction between hIL-9Ralpha and Tip60 was confirmed by coimmunoprecipitation and colocalization studies. This is the first demonstration that Tip60 associates with a membrane receptor. We also mapped amino acids 411-423 in hIL-9Ralpha and amino acids 100-147 in Tip60 to be important for interaction. Interestingly, the region in hIL-9alpha that binds Tip60 is adjacent to the site previously shown to interact with Stat3. Tip60 binds HIV-Tat and mediates Tat-dependent transactivation possibly through its histone acetyltransferase activity. Our results therefore suggest that Tip60 may act as a cofactor of Stat3 or as an adaptor protein for molecules that are important for IL-9 signaling.

MRG1, the product of a melanocyte-specific gene related gene, is a cytokine-inducible transcription factor with transformation activity

Identification of cytokine-inducible genes is imperative for determining the mechanisms of cytokine action. A cytokine-inducible gene, mrg1 [melanocyte-specific gene (msg1) related gene], was identified through mRNA differential display of interleukin (IL) 9-stimulated and unstimulated mouse helper T cells. In addition to IL-9, mrg1 can be induced by other cytokines and biological stimuli, including IL-1alpha, -2, -4, -6, and -11, granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor, interferon gamma, platelet-derived growth factor, insulin, serum, and lipopolysaccharide in diverse cell types. The induction of mrg1 by these stimuli appears to be transient, with induction kinetics similar to other primary response genes, implicating its role in diverse biological processes. Deletion or point mutations of either the Box1 motif (binds Janus kinase 1) or the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 binding site-containing region within the intracellular domain of the IL-9 receptor ligand binding subunit abolished or greatly reduced mrg1 induction by IL-9, suggesting that the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription signaling pathway is required for mrg1 induction, at least in response to IL-9. Transfection of mrg1 cDNA into TS1, an IL-9-dependent mouse T cell line, converted these cells to IL-9-independent growth through a nonautocrine mechanism. Overexpression of mrg1 in Rat1 cells resulted in loss of cell contact inhibition, anchorage-independent growth in soft agar, and tumor formation in nude mice, demonstrating that mrg1 is a transforming gene. MRG1 is a transcriptional activator and may represent a founding member of an additional family of transcription factors.

Molecular cloning and analysis of a pea cDNA that is expressed in darkness and very rapidly induced by gibberellic acid

Using cDNA representational difference analysis (cDNA RDA), we isolated a cDNA named GDA-1 from a cDNA library constructed with mRNA from short-day (SD) grown G2 pea apical tissue. The amino acid sequence deduced from GDA-1 shares partial identity with the B2 protein which is expressed during embryogenesis of carrot cells. Northern analysis showed that GDA-1 mRNA is abundant in SD-grown G2 pea apical buds. In long-day (LD) conditions, there was almost no detectable GDA-1 mRNA. When LD-grown G2 peas were kept in continuous darkness for 24 h, the GDA-1 mRNA content reached a level equivalent to about 50% of that in the SD samples. On the other hand, when SD-grown peas were transferred into the light for 24 h, the amount of hybridizable GDA-1 mRNA dropped to the same as that of LD-grown plants. GDA-1 expression was found to be independent of flower initiation time. GA3 application in vitro resulted in rapid accumulation of GDA-1 mRNA in LD-grown G2 pea apical buds, which is compatible with its delaying effect on apical senescence. Time-course experiments revealed that GDA-1 is induced within 15 min of GA3 application. Exogenous GA3 did not influence the expression of GDA-1 in SD-grown G2 peas. Since both photoperiod and GA induce the expression of GDA-1, we speculate that they may activate similar signal transduction pathways in G2 peas. Our work also shows that photoperiod may change the efficiency of gibberellin perception by plants.

Critical cytoplasmic domains of human interleukin-9 receptor alpha chain in interleukin-9-mediated cell proliferation and signal transduction

Interleukin-9 receptor (IL-9R) complex consists of a ligand-specific alpha chain and IL-2R gamma chain. In this study, two regions in the cytoplasmic domain of human IL-9Ralpha were found to be important for IL-9-mediated cell growth. A membrane-proximal region that contains the BOX1 consensus sequence is required for IL-9-induced cell proliferation and tyrosine phosphorylation of Janus kinases (JAKs). Deletion of this region or internal deletion of the BOX1 motif abrogated IL-9-induced cell proliferation and signal transduction. However, substitution of the Pro-X-Pro in the BOX1 motif with Ala-X-Ala failed to abolish IL-9-induced cell proliferation but decreased IL-9-mediated tyrosine phosphorylation of JAK kinases, insulin receptor substrate-2, and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and expression of c-myc and junB. Another important region is downstream of the BOX1 motif and contains a STAT3 binding motif YLPQ. Deletion of this region significantly impaired IL-9-induced cell growth, activation of JAK kinases, insulin receptor substrate-2, and STAT3 and expression of early response genes. A point mutation changing YLPQ into YLPA greatly reduced IL-9-induced activation of STAT3 and expression of c-myc but did not affect cell proliferation. These results suggest that cooperation or cross-talk of signaling molecules associated with different domains of IL-9Ralpha other than STAT3 is essential for IL-9-mediated cell growth.

Transgenic sweet pepper plants fromAgrobacterium mediated transformation

Fertile transgenic sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum var. grossum) plants were regenerated at relatively high rate from various explants that were cocultivated withAgrobacterium tumefaciens strain GV3111-SE harbouring a plasmid that contains the cucumber mosaic virus coat protein (CMV-CP) gene. The rate of plant regeneration was found to depend on the types of explants cultured and the media used. Young leaves were most effective for bud induction and subsequent plant elongation while hypocotyls were the most inefficient. Southern analysis of DNA isolated from putative transgenic plants revealed that 3 out of 5 R1 plant lines reacted positively with the CMV-CP gene. Western blot analysis of CMV-CP containing R1 plants showed that two of them accumulated significant levels of the foreign gene product while the other two expressed it only, to low levels. Thus, like many other dicotyledonous plant species, sweet pepper can be transformed byA. tumefaciens and regenerated into healthy, fertile plants that express foreign genes.

Multiple transcription factors are required for activation of human interleukin 9 gene in T cells

The genetic elements and regulatory mechanisms responsible for human interleukin 9 (IL-9) gene expression in a human T cell leukemia virus type I-transformed human T cell line, C5MJ2, were investigated. We demonstrated that IL-9 gene expression is controlled, at least in part, by transcriptional activation. Transient expression of the luciferase reporter gene linked to serially deleted sequences of the 5'-flanking region of the IL-9 gene has revealed several positive and negative regulatory elements involved in the basal and inducible expression of the IL-9 gene in C5MJ2 cells. An AP-1 site at -146 to -140 was shown to be involved in the expression of the IL-9 gene. A proximal region between -46 and -80 was identified as the minimum sequence for the basal and inducible expression of the IL-9 gene in C5MJ2 cells. Within this region, an NF-kappaB site at -59 to -50 and its adjacent 20-base pair upstream sequence were demonstrated to play a critical role for the IL-9 promoter activity. DNA-protein binding studies indicated that NF-kappaB, c-Jun, and potentially novel proteins (around 35 kDa) can bind to this important sequence. Mutations at different sites within this proximal promoter region abolished the promoter activity as well as the DNA binding. Taken together, these results suggest that the cooperation of different transcription factors is essential for IL-9 gene expression in T cells.

Study of the afferent pathways from the rectum with a new distention control device

Quantitative studies of the afferent pathways from hollow viscera have been limited by the lack of an easily controlled, reproducible visceral stimulus. We adapted a slow distention device to allow for rapid distention to study the afferent pathways from the rectum. The device produced a pressure increase of 10 mm Hg in 42 msec and of 20 mm Hg in 60 msec. We recorded cerebral evoked potentials (EPs) after rectal balloon distention in 17 healthy subjects. Several averages of 25 to 50 rectal distentions at 0.17-Hz frequency were recorded. The responses consisted of multiple peaks within 200 msec after stimulation. The mean latency of the initial positive peak was 44 msec, suggesting that a myelinated pathway was stimulated with mechanical rectal distention. Our device produced reliable and repeatable EPs that were independent of balloon characteristics or rectal pressures. EP recording after rectal stimulation may become a useful technique for the physiologic investigation of disorders such as fecal incontinence, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction.

Production of virus resistant and insect tolerant transgenic tobacco plants

The cucumber mosaic virus coat protein (CMV-CP) gene and a modified Bacillus thuringiensis δ-endotoxin (Bt toxin) gene were cloned into plant expression vector pE3. Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum cv. G28) leaf discs were transformed with Agrobacterium tumefaciens A12 carrying recombinant pE14. Transgenic r0 and R1 tobacco plants expressing CMV-CP and Bt toxin genes were protected from CMV infection as well as feeding damage of Manduca Sexta (tobacco hornworm) larvae. These results demonstrate that it is feasible to breed new cultivars with multiple resistances via genetic engineering.