Heterogeneity of T cells and macrophages in chlorine-induced acute lung injury in mice using single-cell RNA sequencing

OBJECTIVE

Chlorine (Cl₂), as an asphyxiant toxicant, induced poisoning incidents and acute lung injury (ALI) occur frequently. The specific pathogenesis of Cl₂-induced ALI remains unclear. Immune cells play an important role in the process of lung damage. We used single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology to explore T cells and macrophages molecular mechanism.

METHODS

Female BALB/c mice were exposed to 400 ppm Cl₂ for 15 min. scRNA-seq technology was used to observe the heterogeneity of T cells and macrophages. Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining was used to evaluate the degree of lung injury. Immunofluorescence was used to verify the highly expressed genes of our interest.

RESULTS

A total of 5316 to 7742 cells were classified into eight different cell types. Several new highly expressed anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory genes were found in T cells and macrophages, which were further verified in vitro. Through the pseudotime analysis of macrophages, it was found that the expression of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory genes showed opposite trends in the development of Cl₂-induced ALI. This study also mapped T cells-macrophage communication and identified the development of several important receptor-ligand complexes in Cl₂-induced ALI.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings are worthy of further exploration and provide new resources and directions for the study of Cl₂-induced ALI in mice, especially in immune and inflammation mechanisms.

[Effect of dNLR and LIPI scores on the prognosis of elderly patients with non-surgical treatment of non-small cell lung cancer]

Objective: To investigate the effects of derived neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (dNLR) and lung immune prognostic index (LIPI) score on the overall survival (OS) of non-surgical elderly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Methods: Clinical and pathological data of NSCLC patients in Hebei General Hospital from January 2014 to June 2018 were collected retrospectively. The dNLR value was calculated based on the results of blood routine before treatment, and the optimal cut-off value of dNLR was obtained by ROC curve. The patients were divided into low dNLR level group and high dNLR level group based on the optimal dNLR cut-off value. The groups were classified as good, intermediate and poor based on the LIPI score consisting of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and dNLR tested before treatment. The Kaplan-Meier method and Log rank test were used for survival analysis, and the Cox risk proportional regression model was used for analysis of prognostic influences. Results: The area under the ROC curve for dNLR predicting prognosis in non-surgical elderly NSCLC patients was 0.591 (95% CI: 0.491, 0.692; P=0.093). The optimal cut-off value for dNLR predicting prognosis in elderly NSCLC patients was 2.515, with a sensitivity of 45.5% and a specificity of 81.8%. The gender, BMI, pathological type and degree of tumor differentiation were associated with dNLR levels (P<0.05). The median survival times were 16 and 10 months for patients in the low dNLR level group (dNLR<2.51) and high dNLR level group (dNLR≥2.51), respectively (P<0.001), and 15, 10 and 6 months for patients with good, intermediate and poor LIPI scores, respectively (P<0.001). The age, gender, smoking, pathological type, tumor differentiation, clinical stage, BMI, dNLR level, LDH level and LIPI scores were all associated with patient prognosis (P<0.05), and age≥76 years, tumor differentiation and clinical stage Ⅲ and Ⅳ were independent factors influencing patient prognosis (P<0.05). Conclusion: No matter what treatment measures are taken, dNLR level and LIPI score are related to patients' prognosis, and non-surgical elderly NSCLC patients with high dNLR level and poor LIPI score before treatment have worse prognoses.

Formation of Robust Polydimethylsiloxane Coatings on the Flexspline Material and Mechanism of the Tribological Property Improvement

Flexspline frictional degradation causes failure of harmonic drives. This study focused on the improvement of the flexspline tribological properties. Flexspline material 40Cr was modified with a robust polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) coating. Etched and chemically modified films were utilized to enhance the organic PDMS coating-substrate link strength. Comparing modified and unmodified 40Cr, the surface friction coefficient decreased by 82.2%. Moreover, the modified 40Cr exhibited excellent load-bearing properties. The effects of speed and lubricant-coating interaction on the tribological properties were verified. This study provides an essential theoretical basis for improving the tribological performance of harmonic drives via soft coating modification.

[The effects of cold exposure on the ileum mechanical barrier in mice and its mechanisms]

Objective: To study the mechanisms of cold exposure mediated ileum mechanical barrier injury in mice. Methods: Twenty mice were randomly divided into the control and cold exposure groups. Both the control and cold exposure groups were placed in the climate room with (24±2)℃ and 40% humidity. The mice in the cold exposure group were moved to the climate room at (4±2)℃ every day for 3 hours for three consecutive weeks. Three weeks later, the ileum tissues of mice were collected. Changes in ileum tissue structure were observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining and Masson staining. The related protein expression levels of the tight junction, inflammatory cytokines, and the NF-κB pathway were detected by Western blot. Results: Compared with the control group, the circular muscle layer of the ileum in cold exposed mice became thin, a large number of inflammatory cells infiltrated, the length of villi became short, the depth of recess was increased, and tissue fibrosis appeared. The expression levels of ideal tight junction-associated proteins in cold exposed mice were decreased significantly (P＜0.05), while the protein expression levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and phosphorescent p65 were increased significantly (P＜0.05). Conclusion: Cold exposure can damage the tight junction of the mouse ileum, destroy the integrity of the mechanical barrier and activate the NF-κB signaling pathway to promote the occurrence of the inflammatory response.

[Determination of phenyl glycidyl ether in workplace air by solvent desorption gas chromatography]

Objective: To establish a solvent desorption gas chromatographymethod for the determination of phenyl glycidyl ether (PGE) . Methods: From October to December 2020, PGE in the air of workplace was collected with carbon tube and desorbed by 25% acetone-carbon disulfide. The target toxicant was separated with the gas chromatography (GC) column and analyzed with flame ionization detector (FID), and quantified by peak area. Results: The linear range of PGE in the air of workplace was 10.0-1109.0 μg/ml, the linear equation was y=1.156x-4.328, with a correlation coefficient of 0.9997. The limit of detection was 3.0 μg/ml. The lower limit of quantification was 10.0 μg/ml. The intar-batch and inter-batch precisionswere 4.9%-6.4% and 6.2%-6.9%, respectively. The recovery rate was ranged from 97.2%-98.8%, the average collection efficiency was 100%, and the average extraction efficiency was 90.1%. The samples could be stored at 4 ℃ for 7 d. Conclusion: This method has high precision and good accuracy, and it is applicable for the determination of PGE in workplace air.

The study of schizogenous formation of secretory ducts in Ferula ferulaeoides (Steud.) Korov

The secretory ducts of Ferula ferulaeoides (Steud.) Korov. are the main tissue of synthesis, secretion, and accumulation of resin. The formation of secretory ducts is closely related to the harvest and quality of resin, but the lumen formation mode and corresponding mechanism have not been thoroughly studied. This study of F. ferulaeoides investigated the microstructure and ultrastructure of the secretory ducts from a developmental point of view. Stem samples were analyzed by light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and fluorescence microscopy. The data results showed (1) the walls of secretory cells were intact during the development of secretory ducts in F. ferulaeoides; (2) the plastids and endoplasmic reticulum of secretory cells participated in the synthesis of resin; (3) pectinase was involved in the degradation of the middle lamella; and (4) no features of programmed cell death during the formation of secretory ducts. The results suggested that the formation of F. ferulaeoides' secretory ducts was schizogenous, and pectinase was involved in its formation. These data may be beneficial to further explore the formation of secretory duct in other species of Ferula L. and the formation mechanism of schizogenous secretory structures.

Trait Impulsivity and Choice Impulsivity in Young Adult Students With Probable Binge Eating Disorder

BACKGROUND

Binge eating disorder (BED) as a public health problem has been included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). Akin to addictive disorders, impulsivity-related neuropsychological constructs might be potentially involved in the onset and development of BED. However, it remains unclear which facets of impulsivity are connected to overeating and binge eating behaviors among non-clinical populations. The present study aimed to detect the relationship between impulsivity and binge eating both on the personality-trait and behavioral-choice levels in undiagnosed young adults.

METHODS

Fifty-eight individuals with probable BED and 59 healthy controls, matched on age, gender, and educational level, were assessed by using a series of self-report measurements, including the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11), UPPS-P Impulsive Behaviors Scale (UPPS-P), Delay Discounting Test (DDT), and Probability Discounting Test (PDT).

RESULTS

Multivariate analysis of variance models revealed that compared with healthy controls, the probable BED group showed elevated scores on the BIS-11 Attentional and Motor impulsiveness, and on the UPPS-P Negative Urgency, Positive Urgency, and Lack of Perseverance. However, the probable BED subjects had similar discounting rates on the DDT and PDT with healthy controls. Regression models found that Negative Urgency was the only positive predictor of binge eating behavior.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggested that typical facets of trait impulsivity, which have been recognized in addictive disorders, were associated with binge eating in young adults, whereas choice impulsivity was not aberrantly seen in the same probable BED sample. This study might promote a better understanding of the pathogenesis of BED.

Valeriana jatamansi Jones ex Roxb. Against Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Network Pharmacological Analysis, and In Vivo Evaluation

Zhi zhu xiang (ZZX) is the root and rhizome of Valeriana jatamansi Jones ex Roxb. Recent studies have shown that ZZX can exert antianxiety, antidepressant, and sedative effects. Because post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is similar to depression and anxiety in terms of its etiology, pathogenesis, and clinical manifestations, it is possible that ZZX may also be useful for the prevention and treatment of PTSD. In this study, a mouse model of PTSD was established and used to study the pharmacological action of a 95% ethanol extract of ZZX on PTSD via a series of classic behavioral tests. We found that a 95% ethanol extract of ZZX was indeed effective for relieving the symptoms of PTSD in mice. Moreover, network pharmacology analysis was used to predict the potential active ingredients, targets, and possible pathways of ZZX in the treatment of PTSD. The neurotransmitter system, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and the endocannabinoid (eCB) system were identified to be the most likely pathways for anti-PTSD action in ZZX. Due to the lack of a falsification mechanism in network pharmacology, in vivo tests were carried out in mice, and the expression levels of neurotransmitters, hormones, and genes of key targets were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and real-time PCR to further verify this inference. Analysis showed that the levels of norepinephrine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, and glutamic acid were increased in the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and amygdala of PTSD mice, while the levels of dopamine and γ-aminobutyric acid were decreased in these brain regions; furthermore, ZZX could restore the expression of these factors, at least to a certain extent. The levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone, corticosterone, and corticotropin-releasing hormone were increased in these different brain regions and the serum of PTSD mice; these effects could be reversed by ZZX to a certain extent. The expression levels of cannabinoid receptor 1 and diacylglycerol lipase α mRNA were decreased in PTSD mice, while the levels of fatty acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol lipase mRNA were increased; these effects were restored by ZZX to a certain extent. In conclusion, our findings suggest that ZZX may provide new therapeutic pathways for treating PTSD by the regulation of neurotransmitters, the HPA, and expression levels of eCB-related genes in the brain.

Impact of cumulative cisplatin dose in childhood nasopharyngeal carcinoma based on neoadjuvant chemotherapy response in the intensity-modulated radiotherapy era: a real-world study

Background

We aimed to comprehensively investigate the optimal cumulative cisplatin dose during concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CC-CCD) for locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (CA-LANPC) with different tumor responses after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC).

Methods

Patients with CA-LANPC who underwent NAC followed by cisplatin-based concurrent chemoradiotherapy were retrospectively analyzed. Evaluation of tumor response in patients was conducted by Response Evaluation Criteria for Solid Tumor (RECIST) 1.1 after two to four cycles NAC. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used for prognosis. Recursive partitioning analysis (RPA) was conducted to classify participates and predict disease-free survival (DFS).

Results

One hundred and thirty-two patients with favorable response after NAC were included. The median CC-CCD was 163 mg/m² (IQR, 145–194 mg/m²), and 160 mg/m² was selected as the cutoff point to group patients into low and high CC-CCD groups (< 160 vs. ≥ 160 mg/m²). There was significant improvement in 5-year DFS (91.2% vs. 72.6%; P = 0.003) for patients receiving high CC-CCD compared to those receiving low CC-CCD. Multivariate analysis revealed that CC-CCD, T stage, and Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) DNA were independent prognostic factors for DFS (P < 0.05 for all). Patients were further categorized into two prognostic groups by RPA: the low-risk group (T1-3 disease with regardless of EBV DNA, and T4 disease with EBV DNA < 4000 copy/mL), and the high-risk group (T4 disease with EBV DNA ≥ 4000 copy/mL). Significant 5-year DFS improvement was observed for the high-risk group (P = 0.004) with high CC-CCD. However, DFS improvement was relatively insignificant in the low-risk group (P = 0.073).

Conclusions

CC-CCD was a positive prognostic factor for responders after NAC in CA-LANPC. Furthermore, CC-CCD ≥ 160 mg/m² could significantly improve DFS in the high-risk group with CA-LANPC, but the benefit of high CC-CCD in the low-risk group needs further study.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12935-021-02281-4.

Protective effects of lotus plumule ethanol extracts on bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a progressive fibrosing disease, characterized by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) and remodeling of the lung architecture, which finally result in respiratory failure. Currently, there is no satisfactory treatment for PF， therefore, the development of effective agents is urgently needed. Lotus plumule, the green embryo of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn., a plant of the Nymphaeaceae family, is a traditional Chinese food with exceptional nutritional value and its extracts exert prominent anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects. The aim of the present study was to investigate the inhibitory effects of lotus plumule extracts (LPEs) on bleomycin (BLM)-induced PF in mice. Therefore, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, RT-PCR, and western blot analysis were performed. The histopathological examination demonstrated that LPEs could obviously decrease the degree of alveolitis, deposition of ECM and the production of collagen I (Col-I) in the pulmonary interstitium. In addition, the results showed that LPEs markedly alleviated the expression of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-17, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). Additionally, the content of Col-I and hydroxyproline (HYP) was also attenuated. In conclusion, LPEs could ameliorate the BLM-induced lung fibrosis, thus suggesting that LPEs could serve as a potential therapeutic approach for PF.

[Establishment of a deep learning-based visual model for intelligent recognition of Oncomelania hupensis]

OBJECTIVE

To establish a deep learning-based visual model for intelligent recognition of Oncomelania hupensis, the intermediate host of Schistosoma japonicum, and evaluate the effects of different training strategies for O. hupensis image recognition.

METHODS

A total of 2 614 datasets of O. hupensis snails and 4 similar snails were generated through field sampling and internet capture, and were divided into training sets and test sets. An intelligent recognition model was created based on deep learning, and was trained and tested. The precision, sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, F1 score and Youden index were calculated. In addition, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of the model for snail recognition was plotted to evaluate the effects of "new learning", "transfer learning" and "transfer learning + data enhancement" training strategies on the accuracy of the model for snail recognition.

RESULTS

Under the "transfer learning + data enhancement" strategy, the precision, sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, Youden index and F1 score of the model were 90.10%, 91.00%, 97.50%, 96.20%, 88.50% and 90.51% for snail recognition, which were all higher than those under both "new learning" and "transfer learning" strategies. There were significant differences in the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of the model for snail recognition under "new learning", "transfer learning" and "transfer learning + data enhancement" training strategies (all P values < 0.001). In addition, the area under the ROC curve of the model was highest (0.94) under the "transfer learning + dataenhancement" training strategy.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first visual model for intelligent recognition of O. hupensis based on deep learning, which shows a high accuracy for snail image recognition. The "transfer learning + data enhancement" training strategy is helpful to improve the accuracy of the model for snail recognition.

Association of physical signs with genotype, lipid- and inflammation-related markers, coronary stenosis or calcification, and outcomes in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia

Background

Although several previous studies indicated that the existence of physical signs [tendon xanthomas or corneal arcus (TX/CA)] was associated with the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH), its relations to genotypes and clinical characteristics have not been fully determined. The present study aims to examine the association of TX/CA with genetic mutation, lipid and inflammation-related markers, coronary calcification, coronary severity and cardiovascular events (CVE) in Chinese patients with HeFH.

Methods

A total of 489 HeFH patients diagnosed with Dutch Lipid Clinic Network (DLCN) criteria and/or genetic testing were consecutively recruited. To compare the patients with TX/CA versus those without, propensity score matching (1:4 matched) was performed to adjust for age and sex. Patients were finally divided into the TX/CA group (n=50) and non-TA/CA group (n=200). Data including genetic mutation [low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), apolipoprotein B (APOB), and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9)] and laboratory analysis including lipoprotein(a), PCSK9, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), computed tomography angiography, coronary angiography, and follow up CVEs were compared.

Results

Patients with physical signs presented significantly higher LDL cholesterol levels (8.65±2.53 vs. 7.70±2.18 mmol/L, p=0.025), more LDLR (+) mutations (OR 2.896, 95% CI 1.295–6.473, p=0.010), higher prevalence of high tertiles of Gensini, SYNTAX and Jeopardy score, and coronary artery calcium scores compared to those without. In addition, patients in the TX/CA group had a higher prevalence of high PCSK9 and hsCRP tertiles compared with those without signs. Over an average of 3.7 years of follow-up, patients with TX/CA were at a significantly greater risk of CVE (multivariate adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 2.81, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.14–6.90, p=0.024).

Conclusions

The physical signs were associated with positive genetic mutation, higher PCSK9 or hsCRP concentration and worse outcomes in patients with HeFH, suggesting that these signs may help to risk stratification in patients with HeFH.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Other. Main funding source(s): Capital Health Development Fund (201614035) and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences (2016-I2M-1-011)

Impact of diabetes on coronary severity and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia: an analysis of genotype and phenotype

Aims

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. However, the association between T2DM and coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) has not been thoroughly evaluated. Our study aimed to assess the effect of T2DM on CAD severity and hard cardiovascular endpoints in a HeFH cohort.

Methods

A total of 432 patients with HeFH with a molecular and/or clinical Dutch Lipid Clinic Network score ≥6 (definite and probable) were enrolled. Patients were divided into a T2DM group (n=99) and a non-T2DM group (n=333). Hard endpoints included a composite of non-fatal myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiac death.

Results

No differences were observed regarding genetic mutations in patients with and without T2DM. Patients with T2DM demonstrated a greater number of diseased vessels (p=0.029) and more severe coronary lesions with high Gensini, SYNTAX, and Jeopardy score tertiles. Compared with patients without T2DM, patients with T2DM were at a significantly greater risk of hard endpoints (multivariate adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 2.32, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02–4.84, p=0.025). Additionally, patients with T2DM and good glucose control (HbA1c &lt;7.0%) were at a lower risk of hard endpoints compared with those with poor glucose control (HbA1c ≥7.0%, HR 0.08, 95% CI 0.01–0.56, p=0.011).

Conclusions

We conclude that T2DM is an independent predictor of CAD severity when assessed by four different tests and worse cardiovascular outcomes, suggesting that T2DM could be further used for risk stratification of patients with HeFH.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. Graphical abstract

TFEB promotes BCL-2 expression by upregulating its promoter activity in the t(6;11) translocation renal cell carcinomas

t(6;11) translocation renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is classified as a subset of the MiT family translocation RCCs and characterized by harboring the Alpha-TFEB fusion gene. However, the development mechanism of this tumor and its effective treatment have not been fully identified yet. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between TFEB and BCL-2 in Alpha-TFEB stably transfected cell lines and in t(6;11) RCC tumor tissue. An Alpha-TFEB eukaryotic expression vector was constructed and stably transfected into CaKi-2 and HK-2 cells. RT-PCR and real-time RT-PCR were used to measure the mRNA expressions of TFEB and BCL-2, and immunohistochemistry, Western blot and dual immunofluorescence assays were used to evaluate the TFEB and BCL-2 protein expressions. MTT proliferation assays and flow cytometry were also performed. Furthermore, luciferase reporter assays were used to evaluate the BCL-2 promoter activity. An Alpha-TFEB eukaryotic expression vector was successfully constructed and stably transfected into CaKi-2 and HK-2 cells (named CaKi-2-TFEB and HK-2-TFEB cells). Compared with the CaKi-2 and HK-2 groups, the TFEB and BCL-2 mRNA expression levels were significantly upregulated in the CaKi-2-TFEB and HK-2-TFEB groups respectively. The TFEB and BCL-2 protein expressions showed a similar result. The overexpression of TFEB and BCL-2 promoted cell proliferation and inhibited cell apoptosis. Moreover, the overexpression of TFEB upregulated the promoter activity of BCL-2. Our data suggest that the overexpression of TFEB promotes BCL-2 expression by upregulating its promoter activity and ultimately results in the development of t(6;11) translocation RCC. BCL-2 inhibitors may serve as potential therapeutic targets for t(6;11) translocation RCC.

Prognostic Value of Serum Apolipoprotein B to Apolipoprotein A-I Ratio in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients Treated with Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis

INTRODUCTION

The prognosis of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) varies in patients receiving transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE). In this study, we aimed to assess the prognostic value of serum apolipoprotein B (ApoB)/apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I) in this group of patients.

METHODS

The serum lipid levels of HCC patients undergoing TACE were obtained from routine preoperative blood lipid examination. A propensity score-matched (PSM) analysis was used to eliminate the imbalance of baseline characteristics of the high and low ApoB/ApoA-I groups. Then, univariate and multivariate analysis were conducted to evaluate the prognostic value of ApoB/ApoA-I.

RESULTS

In 455 HCC patients treated with TACE, ApoB/ApoA-I was positively correlated with AFP, T stage, distant metastasis, and TNM stage (p < 0.05). Patients with high ApoB/ApoA-I had a significantly shorter overall survival (OS) than those with low ApoB/ApoA-I (median OS, 21.7 vs. 39.6 months, p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis indicated that ApoB/ApoA-I was an independent prognostic index for OS (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.42, p = 0.008). After baseline characteristics were balanced, 288 patients were included in the PSM cohort. In this cohort, high ApoB/ApoA-I still predicted inferior OS in both univariate analysis (median OS, 27.6 vs. 39.3 months, p = 0.002) and multivariate analysis (HR = 1.58, p = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

Serum ApoB/ApoA-I is a useful biomarker in predicting aggressive clinicopathological characteristics and poor prognosis in HCC patients treated with TACE.

The morphological and histological study of chicken left ovary during growth and development among Hy-line brown layers of different ages

Chicken ovaries are known to develop asymmetrically and only the left ovary fully develops. Although both have been greatly investigated, a gap in scientific reports is still felt between 2-mo-old and sexual maturity. In this study, we aimed at investigating the changes in components that occur during growth to analyze the morphohistological correlation between the left ovary and the follicle development at different age stages in Gallus domesticus. The ovaries were harvested from 60 chickens aged 1 and 3-wk-old, 1, 2, 3, and 4-mo-old (n = 10 per age group), then fixed in AAF solution. Hematoxylin-and Eosin protocol was used to stain the tissue for microscopic observations. Results revealed that the left ovary exhibited an ovarian tissue, a site of follicular growth that displayed various shapes from smooth to greatly indented as the follicles differentiated. Atretic follicles at various regression stages were noticed frequently as the chicks grew in age from 3-wk-old onward along with their differentiation. Rete ovarii, remnants from the male homologs were observed throughout the whole study showing epoöphoron, connecting rete, and gland-like structures that tend to diminish with age. The feature of the left ovary is closely related to the follicular developmental stage, and the bigger and differentiated the follicles are, the more indented and irregular its epithelium appears. Atresia is a normal physiological process that we observed throughout the whole study. Also that, rete ovarii do not spontaneously arise in the ovary but it develops and grows in juvenile chicken as well as in adult ones.

Evaluation of efficacy and safety of combined rosuvastatin and atorvastatin in treating with coronary heart disease: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Globally, coronary heart disease (CHD) is a primary cause of morbidity leading to disabilities and mortality. Modern clinical practice adopts several pharmacological methods to treat CHD. Angina pectoris refers to sever chest pain due to CHD, it has a profound impact on the wellbeing of patients. Moreover, angina pectoris is a crucial prognosis predictor. The aim of the current study is to evaluate the effectiveness and safeness of using combined rosuvastatin and atorvastatin to treat CHD patients.

METHODS

A systematic literature search for articles will be conducted on several electronic databases from their inception to May 2021. The search will include all randomized controlled trials examining the use of rosuvastatin in combination with atorvastatin to treat CHD patients. The databases are as follows: MEDLINE, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, WanFang database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and EMBASE. A couple of authors will independently assess the eligibility, extract study data, and assess the possibility of bias. Moreover, depending on the type of data and heterogeneity of the included studies, either the Mantel-Haensel fixed-effect model or the DerSimonian-Laird random-effect model will be used to estimate the relative risk, mean differences, or standardized mean differences and 95% confidence intervals. All differences in opinion shall be decided by involving an additional author in the discussion. Lastly, the RevMan software (version: 5.3) will be used to perform sensitivity analysis, data synthesis, and risk of bias assessment.

RESULTS

The effectiveness and security of using rosuvastatin in combination with atorvastatin to treat CHD patients will be systematically evaluated.

CONCLUSION

This study will provide evidence to evaluate the efficacy and security of using a combination of rosuvastatin and atorvastatin to treat CHD patients.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval will not be required since it is based on already published data.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/VYBDR (https://osf.io/vybdr/).

Catalytic Asymmetric Synthesis of Silicon-Stereogenic Dihydrodibenzosilines: Silicon Central-to-Axial Chirality Relay

A Rh-catalyzed asymmetric synthesis of silicon-stereogenic dihydrodibenzosilines featuring axially chiral 6-membered bridged biaryls is demonstrated. In the presence of a Rh^I catalyst with a chiral diphosphine ligand, a wide range of dihydrodibenzosilines containing both silicon-central and axial chiralities are conveniently constructed in excellent enantioselectivities via dehydrogenative C(sp³ )-H silylation. Absolute configuration analysis by single-crystal X-ray structures revealed a novel silicon central-to-axial chirality relay phenomenon, which we believe will inspire further research in the field of asymmetric catalysis and chiroptical materials.

Integrated paper-based 3D platform for long-term cell culture and in situ cell viability monitoring of Alzheimer's disease cell model

Reactive oxygen species including superoxide anion, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and hydroxyl radicals, as a conflicting class of biological metabolites in living organism, act crucial effect on Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this work, a facile integrated platform composed of a paper-based three-dimension (3D) cell culture system and an electrochemical sensor was developed for the construction of AD cell model in third dimensional structure and in situ cell viability monitoring by H₂O₂ released from PC12 cells cultured on paper scaffold were divided into three groups containing control group, amyloid beta peptide 25-35 (Aβ_25-35) group and Aβ_25-35+curcumin (Aβ_25-35+cur) group, respectively. In addition, the paper-based 3D platform displayed excellent properties, such as sensitivity, selectivity, reproducibility and stability. The levels of H₂O₂ expressed in PC12 cells of the three groups were monitored through a paper-based 3D platform. The viability of cells cultured on the 96-well plate was measured by 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Results of this paper-based platform are consistent with those of MTT, both displaying improved cell viability and decreased H₂O₂ production in Aβ_25-35+cur group compared to Aβ_25-35 group, which indicates that curcumin has effective cytoprotection. The paper-based 3D platform provides a convenient, economic and universal platform for in situ cell activity monitoring by key small molecules released from living cells.

Monetary Reward Discounting, Inhibitory Control, and Trait Impulsivity in Young Adults With Internet Gaming Disorder and Nicotine Dependence

Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) has been considered a potential behavioral or non-substance addiction that requires further investigation. Recognition of the commonalities between IGD and Substance Use disorders (SUD) would be of great help to better understand the basic mechanisms of addictive behaviors and excessive Internet gaming. However, little research has targeted a straightforward contrast between IGD and SUD on neuropsychological aspects. The present study thus aimed to explore the associations of reward processing and inhibitory control with IGD and nicotine dependence (ND) in young adults. Fifty-eight IGD and 53 ND individuals, as well as 57 age- and gender-matched healthy controls, were assessed with a series of measurements including the Delay-discounting Test (DDT), Probability Discounting Test (PDT), the Stroop Color-Word Task, a revised Go/No Go Task, and the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11). Multivariate analysis of variance (mANOVA) models revealed that both IGD and ND groups scored higher than healthy controls on the BIS-11 attentional, motor, and non-planning impulsiveness (Cohen's d = 0.41-1.75). Higher degrees of delay discounting on the DDT were also found in IGD and ND groups compared to healthy controls (Cohen's d = 0.53-0.69). Although IGD group did not differ from healthy controls on the PDT, ND group had a lower degree of probability discounting than healthy controls (Cohen's d = 0.55), suggesting a reduction in risk aversion. Furthermore, ND subjects showed a lower correct accuracy in the incongruent trials of the Stroop task than healthy controls (Cohen's d = 0.61). On the Go/No Go task, both IGD and ND groups had a lower correct accuracy in the No-Go trials than healthy controls (Cohen's d = 1.35-1.50), indicating compromised response inhibition. These findings suggested that IGD was linked to both anomalous reward discounting and dysfunctional inhibitory control, which was comparable with one typical SUD category (i.e., ND). This study might promote a better understanding of the pathogenesis of IGD as a potential addictive disorder similar to SUD.

Construction of a recombinant vaccinia virus expressing Babesia gibsoni thrombospondin-related anonymous protein and evaluation of its immunogenicity in mice

Previously, we have identified a gene encoding thrombospondin-related anonymous protein of Babesia gibsoni (BgTRAP), and have shown that the antisera raised against recombinant BgTRAP expressed in Escherichia coli inhibited the growth of parasites. In the present study, a recombinant vaccinia virus expressing the BgTRAP (VV/BgTRAP) was constructed. A specific band with a molecular mass of 80 kDa, which is similar to that of native BgTRAP on the merozoites of B. gibsoni, was detected in the supernatant of VV/ BgTRAP-infected RK13 cells. Mice inoculated with VV/BgTRAP produced a specific antiBgTRAP response. The antiserum against VV/BgTRAP showed reactivity against the native BgTRAP on parasites. These results indicated that the recombinant vaccinia virus expressing BgTRAP might be a vaccine candidate against canine B. gibsoni infection.

Epidemiology of imported infectious diseases, China, 2014-18

BACKGROUND

The frequent movement of population between countries brings an increasing number of travel-related infections. This study aims to define the spectrum and dynamics of imported infections observed from international travel in the Chinese mainland.

METHODS

Sick travellers were screened by inbound sentinel surveillance and post-travel clinic visits from 2014 to 18. The infections were classified as respiratory, gastrointestinal, vector-borne, blood/sexually transmitted and mucocutaneous. The analysed variables included the place of origin of the travellers (Chinese or foreign) and the time when travel-related infection was present (at the time of return, during travel and post-travel visits to the clinic).

RESULTS

In total, 58 677 cases were identified amongst 1 409 265 253 travellers, with an incidence of 41.64/million, comprising during-travel incidence of 27.44/million and a post-travel incidence of 14.20/million. Respiratory infections constituted the highest proportion of illnesses during travel (81.19%, 31 393 of 38 667), which mainly came from Asian countries and tourists; with influenza virus and rhinovirus infections being mainly diagnosed. Vector-borne diseases constituted the highest proportion of post-travel illnesses (98.14%, 19 638 of 20 010), which were mainly diagnosed from African countries and labourers; with malaria and dengue fever being mainly diagnosed. The differential infection spectrum varied in terms of the traveller's demography, travel destination and travel purpose. As such, a higher proportion of foreign travellers had blood/sexually transmitted diseases (89.85%, 2832 of 3152), while Chinese citizens had a higher prevalence of vector-borne diseases (85.98%, 19 247 of 22 387) and gastrointestinal diseases (79.36%, 1115 of 1405). The highest incidence rate was observed amongst travellers arriving from Africa, while the lowest was observed amongst travellers arriving from Europe.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings might help in preparing recommendations for travellers and also aid in primary care or other clinics that prepare travellers before trips abroad. The findings will also help to identify locations and the associated types of infections that might require attention.