Cell-type-specific CRISPRization of mitochondrial DNA using bifunctional biodegradable silica nanoparticles.

We report cell-type-specific and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated mtDNA editing platform by using bifunctional biodegradable silica nanoparticles, which were capable of selective intracellular delivery to CD44-overexpressed cells and subsequent mitochondrial localization, followed by glutathione-responsive biodegradation and release of Cas9/sgRNA to realize precise mtDNA editing.

Characterization of histone acetyltransferases and deacetylases and their roles in response to dehydration stress in Pyropia yezoensis (Rhodophyta).

Histone acetylation is one of the most pivotal epigenetic mechanisms in eukaryotes and has been tightly linked to the regulation of various genes controlling growth, development and response to environmental stresses in both animals and plants. Till date, the association of histone acetylation to dehydration stress in red algae and genes encoding the enzymes responsible for histone acetylation: histone acetyltransferases (HATs) or histone deacetylases (HDACs), remains largely unknown. In this study, in silico analysis of the red seaweed Pyropia yezoensis identified 6 HAT genes and 10 HDAC genes. These genes displayed good synteny in genome loci with their Pyropia haitanensis orthologs except for a putative gene duplication event in HDAC and a loss of one HAT gene in P. yezoensis. According to the conserved domains and phylogenetic analysis, they encoded three GCNA5-, one TAFII250- and one MYST-HAT, as well as five HDA1-and five SIRT-HDACs. The sirtuin-domain of Py06502 harbored a ~100 aa insert and interestingly, this insertion was specifically observed in Bangiales species. Two nuclear-localized HATs were transcriptionally up-regulated at the early stage of dehydration and so were two nuclear HDA1s when moderate dehydration started, suggesting their potential roles in modulating downstream gene expression to facilitate dehydration adaptation by changing histone acetylation patterns on relevant regulatory elements. This was experimentally confirmed by the increased decline in photosynthesis efficiency during dehydration when HAT and HDAC activities were inhibited by SAHA and MB-3, respectively. Transcriptional patterns of multiple dehydration-responsive genes after water loss were strongly affected by MB-3 or SAHA treatment. This study provides the first insight into the regulation and function of HAT/HDAC during stress adaptation in red algae.

Corrosion Behavior on 20# Pipeline Steel by Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria in Simulated NaCl Alkali/Surfactant/Polymer Produced Solution.

The corrosion behavior of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) on 20# carbon steel in the NaCl alkali-surfactant-polymer (ASP) flooding system was studied by scanning electron microscopy, electrochemical measurement, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and laser confocal microscopy. The results showed that the presence of SRB results in a large viscosity loss of the system. SRB can use hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM) as a nutrient to grow, and the number of SRB remained at a high level after 15 days. Weight loss and electrochemical tests indicated that SRB promoted corrosion of pipeline steel. The corrosion of carbon steel in the early stage of immersion was inhibited by the biofilm formed on the surface, and the thick biofilm in the later stage of immersion caused serious pitting corrosion. The localized corrosion caused by SRB was not inhibited by HPAM and sodium petroleum sulfonate (surfactant) adsorbed on the surface.

Histone acetylation functions in the wound-induced spore formation in nori.

The red macroalgae Pyropia yezoensis is one of the most economically important marine crops. In the asexual reproduction process, released archeospores could provide secondary seedling resources in nori farming and be used to establish asexual seeding strategies. We previously found that wounds could induce the somatic cells in sectioned Pyropia thalli to develop into large number of asexual wound-induced spores (WIS) in a short time. Many genes involved in signaling pathways, cell division, cell wall remodeling, etc. exhibited transcriptional variation in this cell fate transition process. However, the regulatory mechanisms controlling gene transcription remain elusive. In this study, we found that suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), the inhibitor of histone deacetylase, strongly repressed WIS formation after wounding. The lack of a sharp increase in HDAC activity after wounding, as well as the hyperacetylated status of histone H3 and H4, were observed in SAHA-treated thalli fragments, thus confirming a histone deacetylation-related epigenetic mechanism of wound-induced cell fate reprogramming. Moreover, histone deacetylation is required in the whole process of WIS formation and release. We further compared the genome-wide transcriptional variations after SAHA treatment. SAHA-responsive genes were identified, including some transcriptional factors, chromatin remodeling complex proteins, protein kinases, etc. Transcription of RBOH genes was also altered by SAHA, and moreover, ROS signals in cut fragments were attenuated, both indicating that the ROS systematic signaling pathway is closely associated with histone deacetylation. Our findings provide insights into the biological significance of dynamic histone acetylation states in WIS formation in P. yezoensis.

Fluorogenic and Mitochondria-Localizable Probe Enables Selective Labeling and Imaging of Nitroreductase.

Nitroreductase (NTR), one of the flavin-dependent enzymes and an upregulated enzyme under tumor hypoxia, has been studied for decades. Many fluorescent probes were developed to detect NTR activity; however, these probes tend to diffuse away from their reaction site (NTR) inevitably, leading to inappropriate sample fixation, lower accuracy of NTR localization, and weaker signal-to-noise ratio. Herein, we present the design, synthesis, in vitro evaluation, and biological applications of an NTR-activatable fluorogenic and labeling probe FY. By integrating with quinone methide (QM) proximity-based protein labeling, the additional fluoromethyl group on FY serves as a potential origin of QM. Compared with conventional fluorescent probes, this new NTR probe not only offers mitochondrial localizable and fluorogenic response but also achieves permanent retention on the site of activation with an enhanced spatial resolution to improve the detection sensitivity even after cell fixation. We believe our work could offer an expandable synthetic approach to develop these permanent labeling and imaging fluorescence probes for deciphering complex biological events.

Comparative Gene Expression and Physiological Analyses Reveal Molecular Mechanisms in Wound-Induced Spore Formation in the Edible Seaweed Nori.

Genetic reprogramming of differentiated cells is studied broadly in multicellular Viridiplantae as an adaptation to herbivory or damage; however, mechanisms underlying cell development and redifferentiation are largely unknown in red algae, their nearest multicellular relatives. Here we investgate cell reprogramming in the widely cultivated, edible seaweed Neopyropia yezoesis ("nori"), where vegetative cells in wounded blades differentiate and release as large numbers of asexual spores. Based upon physiological changes and transcriptomic dynamics after wound stress in N. yezoensis and its congener Neoporphyra haitanensis, another cultivar that does not differentiate spores after wounding, we propose a three-phase model of wound-induced spore development in N. yezoensis. In Phase I, propagation of ROS by RBOH and SOD elicites systematic transduction of the wound signal, while Ca2+ dependent signaling induces cell reprogramming. In Phase II, a TOR signaling pathway and regulation of cyclin and CDK genes result in cell divisions that spread inward from the wound edge. Once sporangia form, Phase III involves expression of proteins required for spore maturation and cell wall softening. Our analyses not only provide the first model for core molecular processes controlling cellular reprogramming in rhodophytes, but also have practical implications for achieving greater control over seeding in commercial nori farming.

Accelerated Bone Regeneration by Astragaloside IV through Stimulating the Coupling of Osteogenesis and Angiogenesis.

Both osteoblasts and preosteoclasts contribute to the coupling of osteogenesis and angiogenesis, regulating bone regeneration. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV), a glycoside of cycloartane-type triterpene derived from the Chinese herb Astragalus membranaceus, exhibits various biological activities, including stimulating angiogenesis and attenuating ischemic-hypoxic injury. However, the effects and underlying mechanisms of AS-IV in osteogenesis, osteoclastogenesis, and bone regeneration remain poorly understood. In the present study, we found that AS-IV treatment inhibited osteoclastogenesis, preserved preosteoclasts, and enhanced platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB)-induced angiogenesis. Additionally, AS-IV promoted cell viability, osteogenic differentiation, and angiogenic gene expression in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). The activation of AKT/GSK-3ß/ß-catenin signaling was found to contribute to the effects of AS-IV on osteoclastogenesis and osteogenesis. Furthermore, AS-IV accelerated bone regeneration during distraction osteogenesis (DO), as evidenced from the improved radiological and histological manifestations and biomechanical parameters, accompanied by enhanced angiogenesis within the distraction zone. In summary, AS-IV accelerates bone regeneration during DO, by enhancing osteogenesis and preosteoclast-induced angiogenesis simultaneously, partially through AKT/GSK-3ß/ß-catenin signaling. These findings reveal that AS-IV may serve as a potential bioactive molecule for promoting the coupling of osteogenesis and angiogenesis, and imply that AKT/GSK-3ß/ß-catenin signaling may be a promising therapeutic target for patients during DO treatment.

Radiofrequency ablation for lung squamous cell carcinoma in a single-lung patient: A case report and literature review.

RATIONALE: High morbidity and high mortality are the main features of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Radiofrequency ablation, which produces a large amount of heat to kill tumor cells, is one effective way to treat this disease. PATIENT CONCERNS: We report the case of a 74-year-old man who presented with a 1-month history of right chest pain. His left lung was removed 12 years prior. Chest computed tomography (CT) revealed a mass in the right lower lobe. DIAGNOSES: An excision biopsy of the mass showed lung squamous cell carcinoma. INTERVENTIONS: We performed radiofrequency ablation. OUTCOMES: The patient underwent 3.5 and 10 months of follow-up, with a partial response and complete remission, respectively. LESSONS: CT-guided radiofrequency ablation is a safe and an effective minimally invasive treatment option. Radiofrequency appears to be a valuable alternative to surgery for inoperable patients presenting with a single-lung NSCLC.

Gauging the Effects of Self-efficacy, Social Support, and Coping Style on Self-management Behaviors in Chinese Cancer Survivors.

BACKGROUND: Better self-management control in cancer survivors would benefit their functional status, quality of life, and health service utilization. Factors such as self-efficacy, social support, and coping style are important predictors of self-management behaviors of cancer survivors; however, the impact of these factors on self-management behaviors has not yet been empirically tested in Chinese cancer survivors. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to examine how self-efficacy, social support, and coping style affect specific self-management behaviors. METHODS: A secondary data analysis was completed from a cross-sectional study. A total of 764 cancer survivors were recruited in the study. Validated instruments were used to assess patients' self-efficacy, social support, and coping style. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test the hypothesis. RESULTS: The SEM model fits the data very well, with root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) of 0.034; close-fit test cannot reject the hypothesis of root mean square error of approximation of 0.05 or less, comparative fit index of 0.91, Tucker-Lewis index of 0.90, and weighted root mean square residual of 0.82. For the measurement models in the SEM, all items loaded highly on their underlying first-order factors, and the first-order factors loaded highly on their underlying second-order factors (self-efficacy and social support, respectively). The model demonstrated that self-efficacy and social support directly and indirectly, via coping style, affect 3 self-management behaviors (ie, communication, exercise, and information seeking). CONCLUSION: Our results provide evidence that self-efficacy and social support impose significant direct effects, as well as indirect effects via copying style, on the self-management of cancer survivors. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Our findings may help nurses to further improve their care of cancer survivors in terms of their self-management behaviors, specifically communication, exercise, and information seeking.

Fondaparinux vs. enoxaparin for the prevention of venous thromboembolism after total hip replacement: A meta-analysis.

The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy and safety profiles of fondaparinux and enoxaparin in preventing the venous thromboembolism (VTE) after total hip replacement. A systematic literature search in the PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane library databases was performed to identify relevant articles published in English since inception up to November 16, 2014. The efficacy outcomes were all VTE, total deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and symptomatic VTE, while the safety outcome was major bleeding. Four eligible studies were included in the meta-analysis. The incidences of total VTEs and DVTs were significantly decreased with the use of fondaparinux when compared to enoxaparin [total VTE: risk ratio (RR)=0.59, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.46-0.74, P<0.01; total DVT: RR=0.58, 95% CI: 0.46-0.74, P<0.01]. Significantly fewer symptomatic VTEs and major bleeding cases were observed for the enoxaparin group (symptomatic VTE: RR=2.62, 95% CI: 1.07-6.45, P=0.04; major bleeding: RR=1.75, 95% CI: 1.20-2.53, P<0.01). In conclusion, the pooled analysis revealed that, compared to enoxaparin, fondaparinux was significantly more effective in preventing VTE after total hip replacements in terms of total VTEs and DVTs, although this was accompanied with an increased risk of major bleeding. However, the pooled analysis of two small sample trials from Japan failed to demonstrate any significant advantage for fondaparinux compared to enoxaparin.

Factorial structure of a scale: Strategies Used by People to Promote Health--Chinese version.

BACKGROUND: The Strategies Used by People to Promote Health (SUPPH) is an instrument used to measure self-reported self-efficacy in patient populations. Self-efficacy has a major impact on quality of life and psychological well-being. Previous findings of dimensionality of the SUPPH vary, and cultural differences exist suggesting the need for further investigation and psychometric testing to establish construct validity of the SUPPH in different cultures. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to examine the factorial structure of the Chinese version of the SUPPH (C-SUPPH). METHODS: Using reports from 764 oncology patients in China, the factorial structure of the C-SUPPH was assessed via 2 analytical strategies. First-order confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) models were used to examine the dimensionality of the C-SUPPH; a second-order CFA was used to determine the existence of a factorial structure hierarchy of the C-SUPPH. RESULTS: Compared with the 2- and 4-factor solutions, the 3-factor CFA of the C-SUPPH had a better fit with the data (comparative fit index = 0.94, Tucker-Lewis index = 0.94, root-mean-square error of approximation = 0.05, the close-fit test P = .565, and standardized root-mean-square residual = 0.04). Our findings confirmed the 3-scale structure: Positive Attitude, Stress Reduction, and Making Decisions; together, the 3 factors represent an underlying higher-order factor, that of general self-care self-efficacy. CONCLUSIONS: The C-SUPPH has a valid factorial structure and can be readily applied to studying self-efficacy in Chinese patients who are diagnosed with cancers. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Our findings provide support for a culturally sensitive, reliable, and valid self-efficacy measure (the C-SUPPH) of Chinese adult cancer patients' self-care self-efficacy.

Testing measurement invariance of the Chinese version of the Strategies Used by Patients to Promote Health among patients with cancer.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The Chinese version of the Strategies Used by Patients to Promote Health (C-SUPPH) is a self-report instrument used to measure self-efficacy among patients with cancer. The purpose of this article is to examine measurement invariance of C-SUPPH using data of 764 cancer patients recruited in China. METHODS: Multigroup confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) models were applied across the selected sociodemographic groups of gender, age, education, and monthly income levels. RESULTS: The factorial structure and factor loadings (relationships between items and their underlying factors) of C-SUPPH were invariant across all sociodemographic groups. CONCLUSIONS: The findings showed that the C-SUPPH measures the same latent constructs/factors in the same way when administered to different sociodemographic groups and thus can be readily applied to studying self-efficacy of cancer patients in China.

Self-efficacy difference among patients with cancer with different socioeconomic status: application of latent class analysis and standardization and decomposition analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Although the relationship between partial socioeconomic status (SES) and self-efficacy has been studied in previous studies, few research have examined self-efficacy difference among patients with cancer with different SES. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey involving 764 patients with cancer was completed. Latent class analysis (LCA) was applied to identify distinct groups of patients with cancer using four SES indicators (education, income, employment status and health insurance status). Standardization and decomposition analysis (SDA) was then used to examine differences in patients' self-efficacy among SES groups and the components of the differences attributed to confounding factors, such as gender, age, anxiety, depression and social support. RESULTS: Participants were classified into four distinctive SES groups via using LCA method, and the observed self-efficacy level significantly varied by SES groups; as theorized, higher self-efficacy was associated with higher SES. The self-efficacy differences by SES groups were decomposed into "real" group differences and factor component effects that are attributed to group differences in confounding factor compositions. CONCLUSION: Self-efficacy significantly varies by SES. Social support significantly confounded the observed differences in self-efficacy between different SES groups among Chinese patients with cancer.

Factors associated with self-care self-efficacy among gastric and colorectal cancer patients.

BACKGROUND: Many studies have demonstrated that self-efficacy plays a crucial role in self-care. However, findings from previous studies indicate that the relationships between self-efficacy and several variables are inconsistent. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess the level of self-care self-efficacy among Chinese gastric and colorectal cancer patients and to identify the demographic and disease-related, physical, psychological, and social factors associated with their self-care self-efficacy. METHODS: One hundred forty-eight cancer patients were recruited from hospitals in Shanghai and Shandong Province. Their self-efficacy, health status, social support, and mental health were assessed during face-to-face interview, using the Strategies Used by People to Promote Health (Chinese version), Medical Outcome Study Short Form 36, Social Support Questionnaire, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. RESULTS: The overall level of self-care self-efficacy was moderate (mean, 80.34). The multiple regression analyses indicated that depression, physical functioning, use of available social support, vitality, and profession were indicators of the level of self-care self-efficacy and accounted for 60.9% of the variances. CONCLUSION: Participants who had less depression, better physical function, more social support, and higher vitality tended to have higher levels of self-care self-efficacy. Depression levels had the largest influence on self-care self-efficacy. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Findings indicate that nurses may be able to influence certain cancer patients' self-care self-efficacy by attending to depression and other variables related to physical and social functioning.

Self-management programs for chronic musculoskeletal pain conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of self-management programs on pain and disability for chronic musculoskeletal pain conditions by systematic review. METHODS: A search of randomized controlled trials was conducted in Medline and Embase from 1970s to 2010. Two reviewers independently selected trials, conducted critical appraisal of the methodological quality, and extracted the data. Meta-analyses were performed using all time-points meta-analysis (ATM). RESULTS: Nineteen trials met inclusion criteria. For arthritis, the findings of this study showed that self-management programs have small to moderate effects in improving pain and disability at the long-term level, but the medium-term effect for disability is not significant. For chronic back pain, there is insufficient evidence to determine the effectiveness of self-management programs. CONCLUSION: The encouraging evidence of this study indicates that it is recommended to provide self-management programs to adult patients with arthritis. Further research is needed on self-management for chronic back pain. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Self-management is a safe, community-based and effective way for patients with arthritis to manage pain and disability. Core skills of self-management should be delivered using multiple approaches.