Genome-wide analysis of the chromatin sites targeted by HEX 70a storage protein in the honeybee brain and fat body.

Hexamerins, the proteins massively stored in the larval haemolymph of insects, are gradually used throughout metamorphosis as a source of raw material and energy for the development of adult tissues. Such behaviour defined hexamerins as storage proteins. Immunofluorescence experiments coupled with confocal microscopy show a hexamerin, HEX 70a, in the nucleus of the brain and fat body cells from honeybee workers, an unexpected localization for a storage protein. HEX 70a colocalizes with fibrillarin, a nucleolar-specific protein and H3 histone, thus suggesting a potential role as a chromatin-binding protein. This was investigated through chromatin immunoprecipitation and high-throughput DNA sequencing (ChIP-seq). The significant HEX 70a-DNA binding sites were mainly localized at the intergenic, promoter and intronic regions. HEX 70a targeted DNA stretches mapped to the genomic regions encompassing genes with relevant functional attributes. Several HEX 70a targeted genes were associated with H3K27ac or/and H3K27me3, known as active and repressive histone marks. Brain and fat body tissues shared a fraction of the HEX 70 targeted genes, and tissue-specific targets were also detected. The presence of overrepresented DNA motifs in the binding sites is consistent with specific HEX 70a-chromatin association. In addition, a search for HEX 70a targets in RNA-seq public libraries of fat bodies from nurses and foragers revealed differentially expressed targets displaying hex 70a-correlated developmental expression, thus supporting a regulatory activity for HEX 70a. Our results support the premise that HEX 70a is a moonlighting protein that binds chromatin and has roles in the brain and fat body cell nuclei, apart from its canonical role as a storage protein.

MiR-125a-3p and MiR-320b Differentially Expressed in Patients with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Treated with Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation and Imatinib Mesylate.

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), a hematopoietic neoplasm arising from the fusion of BCR (breakpoint cluster region) gene on chromosome 22 to the ABL (Abelson leukemia virus) gene on chromosome 9 (BCR-ABL1 oncogene), originates from a small population of leukemic stem cells with extensive capacity for self-renewal and an inflammatory microenvironment. Currently, CML treatment is based on tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). However, allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT-allo) is currently the only effective treatment of CML. The difficulty of finding a compatible donor and high rates of morbidity and mortality limit transplantation treatment. Despite the safety and efficacy of TKIs, patients can develop resistance. Thus, microRNAs (miRNAs) play a prominent role as biomarkers and post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression. The aim of this study was to analyze the miRNA profile in CML patients who achieved cytogenetic remission after treatment with both HSCT-allo and TKI. Expression analyses of the 758 miRNAs were performed using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Bioinformatics tools were used for data analysis. We detected miRNA profiles using their possible target genes and target pathways. MiR-125a-3p stood out among the downregulated miRNAs, showing an interaction network with 52 target genes. MiR-320b was the only upregulated miRNA, with an interaction network of 26 genes. The results are expected to aid future studies of miRNAs, residual leukemic cells, and prognosis in CML.

Infection after buried or exposed K-wire fixation of distal radial fractures: a randomized clinical trial.

We treated 220 extra-articular distal radial fractures with closed reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation and randomized K-wire placement to buried or exposed. We analysed the incidence and severity of infection and the mobility of the metacarpophalangeal joints. At 6 weeks postoperatively, 12 patients in the exposed group had infections versus two in the buried group, which was a statistically significant difference. Mobility was statistically but not clinically better in the buried group. One patient in each group had wires removed before fracture healing due to infection, which resulted in malunion. From this study we conclude that, in the treatment of distal radial fractures, it is better to bury the K-wires under the skin, especially when geographical conditions make it difficult to control the patients' adherence to hygiene and postoperative care despite the higher costs incurred with removal of buried K-wires.Level of evidence: II.

Novel VEGFR-2 inhibitors with an N-acylhydrazone scaffold.

Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR-2) is a tyrosine kinase that mediates a large number of cell responses associated with angiogenesis. The control of the angiogenic pathway in tumorigenesis by the inhibition of VEGFR-2 is considered a promising therapeutic strategy for the prevention and control of solid tumor growth. In this study, the design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of a novel series of VEGFR-2 inhibitors with an N-acylhydrazone (NAH) scaffold (9a-h) are reported. The molecular design is validated by docking studies and by in vitro inhibitory activity assays. Compounds 9b, 9c, 9d, and 9f effectively inhibited neovascularization induced by VEGF in the chorioallantoic membrane assay. Thus, these NAH derivatives are promising antiangiogenic prototypes.

Exploring integument transcriptomes, cuticle ultrastructure, and cuticular hydrocarbons profiles in eusocial and solitary bee species displaying heterochronic adult cuticle maturation.

Differences in the timing of exoskeleton melanization and sclerotization are evident when comparing eusocial and solitary bees. This cuticular maturation heterochrony may be associated with life style, considering that eusocial bees remain protected inside the nest for many days after emergence, while the solitary bees immediately start outside activities. To address this issue, we characterized gene expression using large-scale RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), and quantified cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in comparative studies of the integument (cuticle plus its underlying epidermis) of two eusocial and a solitary bee species. In addition, we used transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for studying the developing cuticle of these and other three bee species also differing in life style. We found 13,200, 55,209 and 30,161 transcript types in the integument of the eusocial Apis mellifera and Frieseomelitta varia, and the solitary Centris analis, respectively. In general, structural cuticle proteins and chitin-related genes were upregulated in pharate-adults and newly-emerged bees whereas transcripts for odorant binding proteins, cytochrome P450 and antioxidant proteins were overrepresented in foragers. Consistent with our hypothesis, a distance correlation analysis based on the differentially expressed genes suggested delayed cuticle maturation in A. mellifera in comparison to the solitary bee. However, this was not confirmed in the comparison with F. varia. The expression profiles of 27 of 119 genes displaying functional attributes related to cuticle formation/differentiation were positively correlated between A. mellifera and F. varia, and negatively or non-correlated with C. analis, suggesting roles in cuticular maturation heterochrony. However, we also found transcript profiles positively correlated between each one of the eusocial species and C. analis. Gene co-expression networks greatly differed between the bee species, but we identified common gene interactions exclusively between the eusocial species. Except for F. varia, the TEM analysis is consistent with cuticle development timing adapted to the social or solitary life style. In support to our hypothesis, the absolute quantities of n-alkanes and unsaturated CHCs were significantly higher in foragers than in the earlier developmental phases of the eusocial bees, but did not discriminate newly-emerged from foragers in C. analis. By highlighting differences in integument gene expression, cuticle ultrastructure, and CHC profiles between eusocial and solitary bees, our data provided insights into the process of heterochronic cuticle maturation associated to the way of life.

Nutrition quality control in the prescription and administration of parenteral nutrition therapy for hospitalized patients.

BACKGROUND: Nutrition quality control in parenteral nutrition therapy (PNT) allows the identification of inadequate processes in parenteral nutrition (PN). The objective of this study was to assess the quality of PNT at a hospital with an established nutrition support team (NST). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This observational, longitudinal, analytical, and prospective study examined 100 hospitalized PNT adult patients under the care of an NST for 21 days or until death/hospital discharge. The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.) 2007 guidelines for PNT prescription were followed. RESULTS: PNT indications were not in accordance with the A.S.P.E.N. 2007 guidelines in 15 patients. Among the remaining 85 patients, 48 (56.5%) did not receive adequate PNT (≥80% of the total volume prescribed). Non-NST medical orders, progression to and from enteral nutrition, changes in the central venous catheter, unknown causes, and operational errors (eg, medical prescription loss, PN nondelivery, pharmacy delays, inadequate PN bag temperature) were associated with PNT inadequacy (P < .005). Compared with patients who died, the discharged patients received PN volumes ≥80% on most days (P = .047). The quality indicators for nutrition therapy related to estimated energy expenditure and protein requirements and glycemia levels reached the expected targets; however, the central venous catheter infection rate was higher than 6 per 1000 catheters/d and did not meet the expected targets. CONCLUSION: Despite an established NST, there was a moderate level of PNT inadequacy in indications, administration, and monitoring. It is important to establish periodic meetings among different health professionals who prescribe and deliver PNT to define responsibilities and protocols.

Isolation and characterization of equine peripheral blood-derived multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells / Isolamento e caracterização das células mesenquimais multipotentes estromais derivadas do sangue periférico equino

The objective of the study was to isolate, cultivate and characterize equine peripheral blood-derived multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (PbMSCs). Peripheral blood was collected, followed by the isolation of mononuclear cells using density gradient reagents, and the cultivation of adherent cells. Monoclonal mouse anti-horse CD13, mouse anti-horse CD44, and mouse anti-rat CD90 antibodies were used for the immunophenotypic characterization of the surface of the PbMSCs. These cells were also cultured in specific media for adipogenic and chondrogenic differentiation. There was no expression of the CD13 marker, but CD44 and CD90 were expressed in all of the passages tested. After 14 days of cell differentiation into adipocytes, lipid droplets were observed upon Oil Red O (ORO) staining. Twenty-one days after chondrogenic differentiation, the cells were stained with Alcian Blue. Although the technique for the isolation of these cells requires improvement, the present study demonstrates the partial characterization of PbMSCs, classifying them as a promising type of progenitor cells for use in equine cell therapy.

O objetivo deste estudo foi isolar, cultivar e caracterizar as células mesenquimais multipotentes estromais derivadas do sangue periférico (SpCTMs) equino. O sangue periférico foi coletado, seguido do isolamento das células mononucleadas utilizando o reagente de gradiente de densidade e o cultivo das células aderentes. Os anticorpos monoclonais mouse anti-horse CD13, mouse anti-horse CD44 e mouse anti-rat CD90 foram utilizados para a caracterização imunofenotípica da superfície das SpCTMs. Estas células também foram cultivadas utilizando meio de cultura específico para a diferenciação adipogênica e condrogênica. Não houve expressão do marcador CD13, mas os marcadores CD44 e CD90 foram expressos em todas as passagens testadas. Após 14 dias da diferenciação das células em adipócitos, gotículas de lipídeos foram observados através da coloração com Oil Red O. Vinte e um dias após a diferenciação condrogênica, as células foram coradas com o Alcian Blue. Embora a técnica de isolamento destas células necessite ser otimizada, o presente estudo demonstra a caracterização parcial das SpCTMs, classificando-as como um tipo de células progenitoras promissoras para o uso na terapia celular em equinos.

Constipation is more frequent than diarrhea in patients fed exclusively by enteral nutrition: results of an observational study.

BACKGROUND: Digestive complications in enteral nutrition (EN) can negatively affect the nutrition clinical outcome of hospitalized patients. Diarrhea and constipation are intestinal motility disorders associated with pharmacotherapy, hydration, nutrition status, and age. The aim of this study was to analyze the frequency of these intestinal motility disorders in patients receiving EN and assess risk factors associated with diarrhea and constipation in hospitalized patients receiving exclusive EN therapy in a general hospital. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The authors performed a sequential and observational study of 110 hospitalized adult patients fed exclusively by EN through a feeding tube. Patients were categorized according to the type of intestinal transit disorder as follows: group D (diarrhea, 3 or more watery evacuations in 24 hours), group C (constipation, less than 1 evacuation during 3 days), and group N (absence of diarrhea or constipation). All prescription drugs were recorded, and patients were analyzed according to the type and amount of medication received. The authors also investigated the presence of fiber in the enteral formula. RESULTS: Patients classified in group C represented 70% of the study population; group D comprised 13%, and group N represented 17%. There was an association between group C and orotracheal intubation as the indication for EN (P < .001). Enteral formula without fiber was associated with constipation (logistic regression analysis: P < .001). CONCLUSION: Constipation is more frequent than diarrhea in patients fed exclusively by EN. Enteral diet with fiber may protect against medication-associated intestinal motility disorders. The addition of prokinetic drugs seems to be useful in preventing constipation.

Factors leading to discrepancies between prescription and intake of enteral nutrition therapy in hospitalized patients.

OBJECTIVE: We investigated factors leading to a reduction in enteral nutrition (EN) prescribed by a nutritional support team (NST) at a general hospital in Brazil. METHODS: In this prospective, observational study, hospitalized adults receiving only EN therapy via tube feeding were followed for up to 21 d from July to October 2008. RESULTS: The 152 subjects analyzed included 38 (23.5%) ward patients and 124 (76.5%) intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Eighty percent of the targeted feeding volume was achieved on day 4 by 80% of the patients. Reasons for not receiving the total amount of EN prescribed included delay in EN administration (3.1%), abdominal distention (5.6%), patient refusal of treatment (6.8%), feeding tube obstruction (8.6%), vomiting (10.5%), diarrhea (17.9%), unknown causes (17.9%), interference by a non-NST physician (25.9%), accidental feeding tube loss (34%), presence of high gastric residual (34%), and operational logistics at the hospital's Nutrition and Dietetics Service (99.4%). There was a significant association between patients who received <60% of the prescribed EN and external physician interference (P < 0.016). ICU patients also received inadequate EN (P < 0.025). Neurologic patients had a greater chance of receiving >81% of the prescribed EN amount than cardiac patients (odds ratio 3.75, P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Major reasons for inadequate EN intake are (in decreasing order) operational logistical problems, gastric stasis, accidental loss of enteral feeding tube, and interference by an external physician (not an NST member). Cardiologic patients and ICU patients are at a higher risk for inadequacy than neurologic patients.

A honey bee hexamerin, HEX 70a, is likely to play an intranuclear role in developing and mature ovarioles and testioles.

Insect hexamerins have long been known as storage proteins that are massively synthesized by the larval fat body and secreted into hemolymph. Following the larval-to-pupal molt, hexamerins are sequestered by the fat body via receptor-mediated endocytosis, broken up, and used as amino acid resources for metamorphosis. In the honey bee, the transcript and protein subunit of a hexamerin, HEX 70a, were also detected in ovaries and testes. Aiming to identify the subcellular localization of HEX 70a in the female and male gonads, we used a specific antibody in whole mount preparations of ovaries and testes for analysis by confocal laser-scanning microscopy. Intranuclear HEX 70a foci were evidenced in germ and somatic cells of ovarioles and testioles of pharate-adult workers and drones, suggesting a regulatory or structural role. Following injection of the thymidine analog EdU we observed co-labeling with HEX 70a in ovariole cell nuclei, inferring possible HEX 70a involvement in cell proliferation. Further support to this hypothesis came from an injection of anti-HEX 70a into newly ecdysed queen pupae where it had a negative effect on ovariole thickening. HEX 70a foci were also detected in ovarioles of egg laying queens, particularly in the nuclei of the highly polyploid nurse cells and in proliferating follicle cells. Additional roles for this storage protein are indicated by the detection of nuclear HEX 70a foci in post-meiotic spermatids and spermatozoa. Taken together, these results imply undescribed roles for HEX 70a in the developing gonads of the honey bee and raise the possibility that other hexamerins may also have tissue specific functions.

The four hexamerin genes in the honey bee: structure, molecular evolution and function deduced from expression patterns in queens, workers and drones.

BACKGROUND: Hexamerins are hemocyanin-derived proteins that have lost the ability to bind copper ions and transport oxygen; instead, they became storage proteins. The current study aimed to broaden our knowledge on the hexamerin genes found in the honey bee genome by exploring their structural characteristics, expression profiles, evolution, and functions in the life cycle of workers, drones and queens. RESULTS: The hexamerin genes of the honey bee (hex 70a, hex 70b, hex 70c and hex 110) diverge considerably in structure, so that the overall amino acid identity shared among their deduced protein subunits varies from 30 to 42%. Bioinformatics search for motifs in the respective upstream control regions (UCRs) revealed six overrepresented motifs including a potential binding site for Ultraspiracle (Usp), a target of juvenile hormone (JH). The expression of these genes was induced by topical application of JH on worker larvae. The four genes are highly transcribed by the larval fat body, although with significant differences in transcript levels, but only hex 110 and hex 70a are re-induced in the adult fat body in a caste- and sex-specific fashion, workers showing the highest expression. Transcripts for hex 110, hex 70a and hex70b were detected in developing ovaries and testes, and hex 110 was highly transcribed in the ovaries of egg-laying queens. A phylogenetic analysis revealed that HEX 110 is located at the most basal position among the holometabola hexamerins, and like HEX 70a and HEX 70c, it shares potential orthology relationship with hexamerins from other hymenopteran species. CONCLUSIONS: Striking differences were found in the structure and developmental expression of the four hexamerin genes in the honey bee. The presence of a potential binding site for Usp in the respective 5' UCRs, and the results of experiments on JH level manipulation in vivo support the hypothesis of regulation by JH. Transcript levels and patterns in the fat body and gonads suggest that, in addition to their primary role in supplying amino acids for metamorphosis, hexamerins serve as storage proteins for gonad development, egg production, and to support foraging activity. A phylogenetic analysis including the four deduced hexamerins and related proteins revealed a complex pattern of evolution, with independent radiation in insect orders.

Trade-off between immune stimulation and expression of storage protein genes.

Proteins stored in insect hemolymph may serve as a source of amino acids and energy for metabolism and development. The expression of the main storage proteins was assessed in bacterial-challenged honey bees using real-time (RT)-PCR and Western blot. After ensuring that the immune system had been activated by measuring the ensuing expression of the innate immune response genes, defensin-1 (def-1) and prophenoloxidase (proPO), we verified the expression of four genes encoding storage proteins. The levels of vitellogenin (vg) mRNA and of the respective protein were significantly lowered in bees injected with bacteria or water only (injury). An equivalent response was observed in orally-infected bees. The levels of apolipophorin II/I (apoLp-II/I) and hexamerin (hex 70a) mRNAs did not significantly change, but levels of Hex 70a protein subunit showed a substantial decay after bacterial challenge or injury. Infection also caused a strong reduction in the levels of apoLp-III transcripts. Our findings are consistent with a down-regulation of the expression and accumulation of storage proteins as a consequence of activation of the immune system, suggesting that this phenomenon represents a strategy to redirect resources to combat injury or infection.