Early durotomy with duroplasty for severe adult spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality: a novel concept and method of surgical decompression

PURPOSE

Treatment options for adult spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality (ASCIWORA) varied. Compression of ASCIWORA may more likely result from spinal cord lesions such as edema and hemorrhage or contusion. This study aimed to explore the clinical effect of early durotomy with duroplasty decompression in the treatment of severe ASCIWORA.

METHODS

Data of 16 patients with ASCIWORA who underwent early ( < 72 h) posterior laminectomy followed by durotomy with duroplasty decompression from June 2015 to January 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients' prognosis was analyzed by American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) grades and scores. In 3 patients, intraspinal pressure (ISP) was continuously monitored for 1 week.

RESULTS

Cervical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed spinal cord edema in 9 patients and suspected hemorrhage or contusion in 7 cases. Pathological manifestations of spinal cord injury found during the operation were consistent with preoperative MRI findings. Of the 16 cases, AIS grade was improved by 1 grade in 3 cases, 2 grades in 11 cases, and 3 grades in 1 case. The AIS scores at the last follow-up were significantly higher than preoperative scores. There was a high level of ISP after laminectomy, whereas ISP continued to decrease steadily after durotomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Durotomy helps thoroughly decompress the spinal cord and improve cerebrospinal fluid circulation in severe ASCIWORA cases. Cervical MRI and pathological investigation of the spinal cord can be used to evaluate and predict the prognosis of ASCIWORA patients. ISP monitoring is an effective method for evaluating intramedullary pressure and decompression. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.

An unprecedented oxidised julolidine-BODIPY conjugate and its application in real-time ratiometric fluorescence sensing of sulfite

Reaction of a julolidine-based BODIPY compound with silver(i) ions in the presence of white light produced the oxidised julolidine version (OXJUL) containing a quaternary nitrogen. The oxidation of one ring at the julolidine site is highly unusual and there is no other reported literature example. The fluorescence maximum of OXJUL is altered from 648 nm to 608 nm by the addition of an aqueous solution of Na2SO3 over several minutes. In the presence of a large excess of sulfite a further slower reaction is observed which further shifts the emission maximum to 544 nm. The alterations form the basis of a real-time ratiometric sensor for sulfite and its detection in a white wine.

The influence of antibiotics on gut bacteria diversity associated with laboratory-reared Bactrocera dorsalis

The oriental fruit fly Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) is a destructive insect pest of a wide range of fruit crops. Commensal bacteria play a very important part in the development, reproduction, and fitness of their host fruit fly. Uncovering the function of gut bacteria has become a worldwide quest. Using antibiotics to remove gut bacteria is a common method to investigate gut bacteria function. In the present study, three types of antibiotics (tetracycline, ampicillin, and streptomycin), each with four different concentrations, were used to test their effect on the gut bacteria diversity of laboratory-reared B. dorsalis. Combined antibiotics can change bacteria diversity, including cultivable and uncultivable bacteria, for both male and female adult flies. Secondary bacteria became the dominant population in female and male adult flies with the decrease in normally predominant bacteria. However, in larvae, only the predominant bacteria decreased, the bacteria diversity did not change a lot, likely because of the short acting time of the antibiotics. The bacteria diversity did not differ among fruit fly treatments with antibiotics of different concentrations. This study showed the dynamic changes of gut bacterial diversity in antibiotics-treated flies, and provides a foundation for research on the function of gut bacteria of the oriental fruit fly.

Rational design of spontaneous reactions for protecting porous lithium electrodes in lithium-sulfur batteries

A rechargeable lithium anode requires a porous structure for a high capacity, and a stable electrode/electrolyte interface against dendrite formation and polysulfide crossover when used in a lithium-sulfur battery. Here, we design two simple steps of spontaneous reactions for protecting porous lithium electrodes. First, a reaction between molten lithium and sulfur-impregnated carbon nanofiber forms a fibrous network with a lithium shell and a carbon core. Second, we coat the surface of this porous lithium electrode with a composite of lithium bismuth alloys and lithium fluoride through another spontaneous reaction between lithium and bismuth trifluoride, solvated with phosphorous pentasulfide, which also polymerizes with lithium sulfide residual in the electrode to form a solid electrolyte layer. This protected porous lithium electrode enables stable operation of a lithium-sulfur battery with a sulfur loading of 10.2 mg cm-2 at 6.0 mA cm-2 for 200 cycles.

Retraction Note: circRNA_100290 plays a role in oral cancer by functioning as a sponge of the miR-29 family

The Editors and Publisher have agreed to retract the above paper following a request from the authors.

Clinical study of the radiotherapy with EDGE accelerator in the treatment of the moderate and severe thyroid associated ophthalmopathy

OBJECTIVE

To explore the short-term efficacy, acute complications and response factors after the radiotherapy with EDGE accelerator in patients with moderate and severe thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 68 patients with moderate and severe TAO who received the radiotherapy with EDGE accelerator between August 1st, 2017 and May 1st, 2011 were enrolled in the present study. The clinical data were collected, and the efficacy and acute complications were followed up, and the response factors were analyzed.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight patients (136 eyes) were followed up for 6 months after radiotherapy. The total score after radiotherapy was significantly lower compared to that before the therapy (p<0.05), and the effective rate was 75.74%. After the radiotherapy, the patient's exophthalmia, soft tissue involvement, eye external muscle involvement, corneal involvement, decreased vision and diplopia, tearing and eyelid pain have improved. Acute complications included increased local inflammation, hair loss, pigmentation and xerophthalmias. In addition, multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that thyroid hormone level was the independent factor for the response to the radiotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

For patients with moderate and severe TAO, radiotherapy with EDGE accelerator is a safe and effective treatment option. Maintaining normal thyroid hormone level can improve the effective rate of radiotherapy.

Genetic diversity and maternal origin of Northeast African and South American donkey populations

To investigate the mtDNA variation and origin of maternal lineages in South American donkeys and to reassess the domestication of donkeys in northeast Africa, we analyzed sequences (489 bp of the D-loop) from 323 domestic donkeys sampled from Peru, Brazil, Ethiopia and Egypt. Altogether, the 323 sequences displayed 53 different haplotypes (45 in Ethiopia, 14 in Egypt, eight in Peru and six in Brazil). Among the four populations, Egyptian donkeys possessed the highest haplotype diversity (0.910 ± 0.032), followed by Brazilian donkeys (0.879 ± 0.060). The Clade I haplotypes dominated in Peruvian donkeys (65%), whereas Clade II haplotypes dominated in Brazilian donkeys (67%). Estimates of F_ST values showed a high genetic differentiation between Peruvian and Brazilian donkey populations (F_ST  = 0.4066), which could be explained by the complex introduction history of South American donkeys. Phylogeographic analysis indicates that northeast Africa could be the most probable domestication center for Clade I donkeys. Analysis of molecular variance confirmed a weak genetic structure in domestic donkey populations among four continents (Europe, Asia, Africa and South America).

Bench test of phase measurement on dispersion interferometer for EAST

In recent years, different traditional interferometers have been the necessary diagnostic of electronic density measurement on fusion devices. Until now, two main problems always influence the density measurement: the mechanical vibration and fringe jump in the calculation. The dispersion interferometer (DI) with a long-wavelength infrared wavelength is a good choice because mechanical vibrations can be canceled and the fringe jump can be inhibited. This paper describes the bench test of phase measurement using a wedge instead of plasma on the DI. The results show good agreement with the theoretical calculations. In the background measurement, this DI without a vibration isolation system has good performance, and the drift of the baseline is less than 2 × 10¹⁷ m^-2 in 3 s and less than 5 × 10¹⁷ m^-2 in 400 s. Plasma data will be obtained during the next campaign on EAST (Experimental and Advanced Superconducting Tokamak).

Dexmedetomidine attenuation of renal ischaemia-reperfusion injury requires sirtuin 3 activation

BACKGROUND

Dexmedetomidine attenuates renal ischaemia and reperfusion (I/R) injury, but its mechanism of action is unclear. As sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) activation can alleviate acute kidney injury, we investigated whether dexmedetomidine acts through SIRT3 to reduce renal I/R injury.

METHODS

The potential involvement of SIRT3 in dexmedetomidine attenuation of renal I/R injury was tested in HK2 cells subjected to hypoxia/reoxygenation and C57BL/6J mice subjected to renal I/R. A short interfering RNA targeting SIRT3 was used in some experiments to examine the potential role of SIRT3. Cell death and mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) were analysed in cultured cells. Mitochondrial damage in mice was assessed using electron microscopy and markers for renal function. Expression of cyclophilin D, cytochrome c, and SIRT3, and the level of cyclophilin D acetylation were determined.

RESULTS

Hypoxia/reoxygenation of HK2 cells increased cell death, cytochrome C expression, and cyclophilin D acetylation, and decreased Δψm and SIRT3 expression (P<0.05). Dexmedetomidine attenuated these changes. The dexmedetomidine effects were enhanced by SIRT3 overexpression and eliminated by SIRT3 knockdown. I/R in mice damaged renal function, and increased histological lesions, mitochondrial damage, cytochrome c expression, and cyclophilin D acetylation, while SIRT3 activity was decreased by 51% (P<0.05). Dexmedetomidine inhibited these changes in mice expressing normal levels of SIRT3, but not in SIRT3-knockdown mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Dexmedetomidine appears to act, at least in part, by up-regulating SIRT3 to inhibit mitochondrial damage and cell apoptosis and thereby protect against renal I/R injury.

Antiviral effect of baicalin phospholipid complex against duck hepatitis A virus type 1

Duck hepatitis A virus type 1 (DHAV-1) is one of the main pathogens of ducklings and causes a high mortality rate. Baicalin (BA) has potent antiviral effect, but the solubility is very poor. In order to increase the absorption, solubility, and pharmacological activity, the phospholipid complex was used to modify BA in present study. Therefore, BA phospholipid complex (BAPC) was prepared. The anti-DHAV-1 abilities of BA and BAPC in vitro was evaluated by cell counting kit-8 and reverse transcription quantitative PCR. The curative effects of BA and BAPC on ducklings which were infected by DHAV-1 in addition to the ALT and AST levels were also detected. The results indicated the anti-DHAV-1 ability of BAPC was stronger than that of BA both in vitro and in vivo. To explore the anti-DHAV-1 mechanism, the influence of BAPC on DHAV-1 adsorption, replication, and release was studied. Furthermore, the anti-oxidative and immuno-enhancing abilities of BAPC in the treatment of infected ducklings were also determined. The results showed BAPC inhibited DHAV-1 adsorption, replication and release. Furthermore, it played anti-oxidative and immno-enhancing roles in the treatment, and the immno-enhancing role was crucial to the treatment.

A free-standing wire scattering technique to monitor calibration variations of the DIII-D density profile reflectometer

Real-time phase calibration of the ITER profile reflectometer is essential due to the long plasma duration and expected waveguide path length changes during a discharge. Progress has been recently made in addressing this issue by employing a phase calibration technique on DIII-D that monitors calibration variations that occur during each plasma discharge. By installing a thin free-standing metallic wire (1 mm diameter) near the end of the overmoded waveguide transmission system (oriented perpendicular to the waveguide axis), the round-trip phase shift from the wire is detected simultaneously with the plasma phase shifts. Variations in the reflectometer round trip path length (∼26 m) are then calculated after each DIII-D plasma discharge, allowing the calibration phase to be accurately monitored and updated. The round-trip reflectometer path length is observed to vary by ∼3 mm (root mean square value) during a typical DIII-D discharge. Using the variations in calibration phase, the density profile measurement accuracy can be improved. Since the wire retro-reflected power is ∼0.01 of the plasma signal, minimal effect is observed on the reflected signal from the plasma. Importantly, through a suitable choice in wire diameter, the calibration signal can be made approximately independent of the V-band reflectometer launch polarization. This is particularly important on DIII-D since orthogonal X- and O-mode polarized beams are coupled into the same transmission waveguide and launch antenna.

Biology of Oral Streptococci

Bacteria belonging to the genus Streptococcus are the first inhabitants of the oral cavity, which can be acquired right after birth and thus play an important role in the assembly of the oral microbiota. In this article, we discuss the different oral environments inhabited by streptococci and the species that occupy each niche. Special attention is given to the taxonomy of Streptococcus, because this genus is now divided into eight distinct groups, and oral species are found in six of them. Oral streptococci produce an arsenal of adhesive molecules that allow them to efficiently colonize different tissues in the mouth. Also, they have a remarkable ability to metabolize carbohydrates via fermentation, thereby generating acids as byproducts. Excessive acidification of the oral environment by aciduric species such as Streptococcus mutans is directly associated with the development of dental caries. However, less acid-tolerant species such as Streptococcus salivarius and Streptococcus gordonii produce large amounts of alkali, displaying an important role in the acid-base physiology of the oral cavity. Another important characteristic of certain oral streptococci is their ability to generate hydrogen peroxide that can inhibit the growth of S. mutans. Thus, oral streptococci can also be beneficial to the host by producing molecules that are inhibitory to pathogenic species. Lastly, commensal and pathogenic streptococci residing in the oral cavity can eventually gain access to the bloodstream and cause systemic infections such as infective endocarditis.

Genetic contribution of suppressor of cytokine signalling polymorphisms to the susceptibility to infection after traumatic injury

Suppressor of cytokine signalling (SOCS) proteins are crucial negative regulators in many signalling pathways and are implicated in the pathogenesis of infectious diseases. The purpose of this study was to uncover possible associations of common polymorphisms within SOCS genes with infectious outcomes after traumatic injury. A total of 1087 trauma patients (Chongqing cohort 806 and Yunnan cohort 281) were recruited and followed-up for the development of infectious outcomes, such as sepsis and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). Twelve selected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were screened by pyrosequencing to determine their genotypes and associations with infectious complications. Among the 12 selected SNPs, only the cytokine-inducible Src homology (SH2) domain protein (CISH) promoter rs414171 polymorphism was found consistently to be associated statistically with the incidence of sepsis and MOD score in the two cohorts, despite analysing the SNPs independently or in combination. Further, patients with a T allele had significantly lower CISH expression and lower production of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, but higher production of interleukin (IL)-10. Luciferase assay confirmed that the A→T variant in the rs414171 polymorphism inhibited the transcriptional activities of the CISH gene significantly. The CISH rs414171 polymorphism is associated significantly with susceptibility to sepsis and MODS in traumatic patients, which might prove to be a novel biomarker for indicating risk of infectious outcomes in critically injured patients.

[Relevant factors of tinnitus in the elderly: an analysis of 150 volunteers]

Objective:To evaluate and characterize tinnitus in elderly volunteers，try to find out the relevant factors that can affect the incidence of tinnitus.Method:The study included 150 elderly volunteers. All volunteers had taken the otology examination and pure tone audiometry. They were interviewed by the investigators who were trained together, using the same questionnaire. The characteristics of tinnitus and the relationship between all relevant factors and tinnitus were analyzed.Result:Average age was 71.4 years. There are now 77 patients with tinnitus(51.3%), of which 31 cases have sustained tinnitus for more than 3 months, accounting for 40.3% of existing tinnitus volunteers. There was negative correlation between tinnitus and age. There was positive correlation between tinnitus and hearing loss. Tinnitus and headache had no correlation(P>0.05).Conclusion:After reach a certain age(70 years old), the incidence of tinnitus decreased. Hearing loss might be the most dangerous factor.If the hearing loss was more serious, the incidence of the tinnitus became higher. Tinnitus in the elderly may be the result of a combination of factors.

Quasistationary Plasma Predator-Prey System of Coupled Turbulence, Drive, and Sheared E×B Flow During High Performance DIII-D Tokamak Discharges

A new, long-lived limit cycle oscillation (LCO) regime has been observed in the edge of near zero torque high performance DIII-D tokamak plasma discharges. These LCOs are localized and composed of density turbulence, gradient drives, and E×B velocity shear damping (E and B are the local radial electric and total magnetic fields). Density turbulence sequentially acts as a predator (via turbulence transport) of profile gradients and a prey (via shear suppression) to the E×B velocity shear. Reported here for the first time is a unique spatiotemporal variation of the local E×B velocity, which is found to be essential for the existence of this system. The LCO system is quasistationary, existing from 3 to 12 plasma energy confinement times (∼30-900 LCO cycles) limited by hardware constraints. This plasma system appears to contribute strongly to the edge transport in these high performance and transient-free plasmas, as evident from oscillations in transport relevant edge parameters at LCO time scale.

Effects of stray lights on Faraday rotation measurement for polarimeter-interferometer system on EAST

A double-pass radially view 11 chords polarimeter-interferometer system has been operated on the experimental advanced superconducting tokamak and provides important current profile information for plasma control. Stray light originating from spurious reflections along the optical path (unwanted reflections from various optical components/mounts and transmissive optical elements such as windows, waveplates, and lens as well as the detectors) and also direct feedback from the retro-reflector used to realize the double-pass configuration can both contribute to contamination of the Faraday rotation measurement accuracy. Modulation of the Faraday rotation signal due to the interference from multiple reflections is observable when the interferometer phase (plasma density) varies with time. Direct reflection from the detector itself can be suppressed by employing an optical isolator consisting of a λ/4-waveplate and polarizer positioned in front of the mixer. A Faraday angle oscillation during the density ramping up (or down) can be reduced from 5°-10° to 1°-2° by eliminating reflections from the detector. Residual modulation arising from misalignment and stray light from other sources must be minimized to achieve accurate measurements of Faraday rotation.

Correlation of quantitative parameters of magnetic resonance perfusion-weighted imaging with vascular endothelial growth factor, microvessel density and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α in nasopharyngeal carcinoma: Evaluation on radiosensitivity study

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the correlation of parameters of magnetic resonance perfusion-weighted imaging (MR-PWI) with the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and microvessel density (MVD) in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) so as to explore the value of predicting radiosensitivity.

DESIGN

A prospective study.

SETTING

Department of Head-and-neck radiotherapy in Hunan Cancer Hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Ninety-four patients of NPC were included between December 2013 and December 2014.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The expression of VEGF, MVD and HIF-1α was studied by immunohistochemistry, and magnetic resonance perfusion-weighted imaging (MR-PWI) was performed before and after undergoing radiotherapy (20 Gy dose). Parameters of MR-PWI, volume of primary tumour and rate of tumour remission were measured and calculated. Patients with primary local tumour were then divided into completely response group (CR group) and partially response group (non-CR group) according to tumour regression condition. Relevant parameters were analysed by Spearman, and diagnostic efficiency of radiosensitivity was analysed by receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC).

RESULTS

The expression of VEGF was positively correlated with MVD (r = .322,P < .05), but the expression of HIF-1α was no significant correlations with VEGF and MVD. The expression VEGF was in positive correlation with fractional plasma volume (fpv) (r = .339, P = .05) before radiotherapy. There was a significant difference in the quantitative parameters of MR-PWI between CR group and non-CR group during the course of radiotherapy and at the end of radiotherapy treatment. The change of blood reflux constant (Δkep20) and extravascular extracellular space volume fraction (ΔVe20) before and after treatment was positively correlated with primary local tumour remission condition after 3 month treatment; Δkep and ΔVe were negatively correlated with primary local tumour remission condition after 3 months. Tumour regression rate was only positively correlated with Ve and the average volume of primary tumour after 2 week treatment (V1). ROC curve showed that R20 ≥ 65.69%, and was considered as a threshold to predict primary local tumour remission, with a sensitivity of 0.84 and specificity of 0.69, and area under the curve was 0.819 (P = .000).

CONCLUSIONS

The parameters of MR-PWI with the expression of VEGF, HIF-1α and MVD could be guidance for predicting radiosensitivity in NPC.

Nine Novel PAX9 Mutations and a Distinct Tooth Agenesis Genotype-Phenotype

Tooth agenesis is one of the most common developmental anomalies affecting function and esthetics. The paired-domain transcription factor, Pax9, is critical for patterning and morphogenesis of tooth and taste buds. Mutations of PAX9 have been identified in patients with tooth agenesis. Despite significant progress in the genetics of tooth agenesis, many gaps in knowledge exist in refining the genotype-phenotype correlation between PAX9 and tooth agenesis. In the present study, we complete genetic and phenotypic characterization of multiplex Chinese families with nonsyndromic (NS) tooth agenesis. Direct sequencing of polymerase chain reaction products revealed 9 novel (c.140G>C, c.167T>A, c.332G>C, c.194C>A, c.271A>T, c.146delC, c.185_189dup, c.256_262dup, and c.592delG) and 2 known heterozygous mutations in the PAX9 gene among 120 probands. Subsequently, pedigrees were extended, and we confirmed that the mutations co-segregated with the tooth agenesis phenotype (with exception of families in which DNA analysis was not available). In 1 family ( n = 6), 2 individuals harbored both the PAX9 c.592delG mutation and a heterozygous missense mutation (c.739C>T) in the MSX1 gene. Clinical characterization of families segregating a PAX9 mutation reveal that all affected individuals were missing the mandibular second molar and their maxillary central incisors are most susceptible to microdontia. A significant reduction of bitter taste perception was documented in individuals harboring PAX9 mutations ( n = 3). Functional studies revealed that PAX9 haploinsufficiency or a loss of function of the PAX9 protein underlies tooth agenesis.

The association between GGCX, miR-133 genetic polymorphisms and warfarin stable dosage in Han Chinese patients with mechanical heart valve replacement

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE

Warfarin is a widely used anticoagulant with a narrow therapeutic index. Polymorphisms in the VKORC1, CYP2C9 and CYP4F2 genes have been verified to correlate with warfarin stable dosage (WSD). Whether any other genes or variants affect the dosage is unknown. The aim of our study was to investigate the relationship between GGCX, miR-133 variants and the WSD in Han Chinese patients with mechanical heart valve replacement (MHVR).

METHODS

A total of 231 patients were enrolled in the study. Blood samples were collected for genotyping. The average WSD among subjects with different GGCX or miR-133 genotypes was compared. Regression analyses were performed to test for any association of genetic polymorphisms with WSD.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The warfarin dosage in patients with the GGCX rs699664 TT and rs12714145 TT genotypes was 3.77±0.93 (95% CI: 3.35-4.19) mg/d and 3.70±1.00 (95% CI: 3.32-4.09) mg/d, respectively. The GGCX rs699664 and rs12714145 genotypes were significantly associated with WSD (P<.05). But they were ruled out in the multivariate regression analysis. There were no significant differences in the average warfarin stable dosage between subjects with MIR133B rs142410335 wild-type and variant genotypes (P>.05).

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION

The genotypes of GGCX rs699644 and rs12714145 were significantly associated with WSD (P<.05), but their contributions were not significant after accounting for other factors. MIR133B rs142410335 makes no significant contributions to warfarin stable dosage in Han Chinese patients with MHVR neither in univariate regression nor in multivariate regression analyses.

Identification of Suitable Reference Genes for mRNA Studies in Bone Marrow in a Mouse Model of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

BACKGROUND

Bone marrow micro-environment changes during hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) with subsequent alteration of genes expression. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (q-PCR) is a reliable and reproducible technique for the analysis of gene expression. To obtain more accurate results, it is essential to find a reference during HSCT. However, which gene is suitable during HSCT remains unclear. This study aimed to identify suitable reference genes for mRNA studies in bone marrow after HSCT.

METHODS

C57BL/6 mice were treated with either total body irradiation (group T) or busulfan/cyclophosphamide (BU/CY) (group B) followed by infusion of bone marrow cells. Normal mice without treatments were served as a control. All samples (group T + group B + control) were defined as group G. On days 7, 14, and 21 after transplantation, transcription levels of 7 candidate genes, ACTB, B2M, GAPDH, HMBS, HPRT, SDHA, and YWHAZ, in bone marrow cells were measured by use of real-time quantitative PCR. The expression stability of these 7 candidate reference genes were analyzed by 2 statistical software programs, GeNorm and NormFinder.

RESULTS

Our results showed that ACTB displayed the highest expression in group G, with lowest expression of PSDHA in group T and HPRT in groups B and G. Analysis of expression stability by use of GeNorm or NormFinder demonstrated that expression of B2M in bone marrow were much more stable during HSCT, compared with other candidate genes including commonly used reference genes GAPDH and ACTB.

CONCLUSIONS

ACTB could be used as a suitable reference gene for mRNA studies in bone marrow after HSCT.

Size and property bimodality in magnetic nanoparticle dispersions: single domain particles vs. strongly coupled nanoclusters

The widespread use of magnetic nanoparticles in the biotechnical sector puts new demands on fast and quantitative characterization techniques for nanoparticle dispersions. In this work, we report the use of asymmetric flow field-flow fractionation (AF4) and ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) to study the properties of a commercial magnetic nanoparticle dispersion. We demonstrate the effectiveness of both techniques when subjected to a dispersion with a bimodal size/magnetic property distribution: i.e., a small superparamagnetic fraction, and a larger blocked fraction of strongly coupled colloidal nanoclusters. We show that the oriented attachment of primary nanocrystals into colloidal nanoclusters drastically alters their static, dynamic, and magnetic resonance properties. Finally, we show how the FMR spectra are influenced by dynamical effects; agglomeration of the superparamagnetic fraction leads to reversible line-broadening; rotational alignment of the suspended nanoclusters results in shape-dependent resonance shifts. The AF4 and FMR measurements described herein are fast and simple, and therefore suitable for quality control procedures in commercial production of magnetic nanoparticles.

[Study of long non-coding RNA HOTAIR expression in middle ear cholesteatoma]

Objective:To discuss the different expression of some long-chain noncoding RNA between middle ear cholesteatoma epithelial tissue and normal external ear canal skin.Method:Real-time quantitative PCR was used to detect the expression of 6 kinds of lncRNA: HOTAIR, ANCR, TINCR, PRINS, BANCR, PICSAR in 25 cases of cholesteatoma epithelial tissues and 15 cases of normal external auditory canal skin tissue samples, respectively. And compared the expression level of lncRNA in patients with different degree of bone destruction.Result:Expression level of HOTAIR was significantly increased in cholesteatoma epithelial tissues compared with the normal external auditory canal skin tissues,and the difference is statistically significant (P< 0.01). While there was no statistically significant difference expression of the rest of the five kinds of lncRNA between middle ear cholesteatoma epithelial tissues and normal external ear canal skin (P> 0.05). And there was no statistically significant difference expression of HOTAIR in patients with different degree of bone destruction (P> 0.05).Conclusion:Expression level of HOTAIR was up-regulated in middle ear cholesteatoma epithelial tissue compared with the normal external auditory canal skin tissues, and the expression level of HOTAIR has no obvious correlation with degree of bone destruction in patients with cholesteatoma.

[Comparision for clinical efficiency of continuous adductor canal block and femoral nerve block in total knee arthroplasty]

OBJECTIVE

To compare the pain control efficiency of continuous adductor canal block (ACB) and femoral nerve block (FNB) in total knee arthroplasty.

METHODS

From April to September 2016, patients with severe knee osteoarthritis undergoing primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were prospectively observed, and all the patients were randomized received ultrasound-guided continuous ACB or FNB after surgery. Numeric pain rating scales(NPRS)pain scores in rest and activity 2, 6, 12, 24 and 48 h after surgery were collected, and the preoperative and postoperative quadriceps strength at 24 and 48 h were analyzed. Opioids consumption and anesthesia related adverse effects were also recorded.

RESULTS

In the study, 40 patients were enrolled, with 20 patients in each group, male:female=7:33, the age: (63.8±10.1) years, and the body mass index (BMI): (28.5±3.5) kg/m(2).The general conditions were comparable between the two groups. Though the rest pain 2 h after surgery [ACB=0.0(0,6), FNB=3.0(0,5), P=0.004] and activity pain 12 h post operation [ACB=3.0(3,0), FNB=5.5(0,10), P=0.004] were lower in ACB group compared with FNB group, there was no statistical difference in the other pain checking points between the two groups. The quadriceps strength 24 h and 48 h after surgery were(85.3±27.6) N and (80.0±30.1) N in ACB group, (69.0±29.4) N and (64.4±32.0) N in FNB group, both of them were declined by time. The exact data were higher in ACB group, however, there was no statistical difference between the two group by repeated measurements variance analysis(F=2.703, P=0.108).Four patients in ACB group and five in FNB acquired additional use of dolantin once (100 mg/per time) within 24 h. And among them, three patients acquired once dolantin in ACB, two in FNB, from 24 to 48 h postoperation. There were five patients who suffered nausea postoperation in ACB group, and one who reported xerostomia. Four patients in FNB had nausea with vomiting, and three experienced xerostomia. Deep vein thrombosis appeared in 2 patients in FNB group, but no one in ACB group.

CONCLUSION

Continuous ACB is not superior in pain control after TKA compared with FNB, and the quadriceps strength could be reserved more by this method, which performed early benefits in fast rehabilitation.

[Application of different death evaluation indicators for HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment]

AIDS has gradually changed from a fatal disease to a manageable chronic disease since the advent of antiretroviral drugs. In 2003, China initiated a national free antiretroviral treatment program for people living with HIV/AIDS, several death evaluation indicators have been used to evaluate public health effect of the program. Death evaluation indicators used frequently in domestic and overseas include mortality, case fatality rate, excess mortality, standard mortality ratio, years of potential life lost, disability-adjusted life year and life expectancy. This paper summarizes the different death indicators applied in effectiveness evaluation of HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment, elaborates the application range and significance of these indicators and suggests the research in related life expectancy and burden of disease which have not been conducted in China.

Initial measurements of plasma current and electron density profiles using a polarimeter/interferometer (POINT) for long pulse operation in EAST (invited)

A double-pass, radially viewing, far-infrared laser-based POlarimeter-INTerferometer (POINT) system utilizing the three-wave technique has been implemented for diagnosing the plasma current and electron density profiles in the Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST). POINT has been operated routinely during the most recent experimental campaign and provides continuous 11 chord line-integrated Faraday effect and density measurement throughout the entire plasma discharge for all heating schemes and all plasma conditions (including ITER relevant scenario development). Reliability of both the polarimetric and interferometric measurements is demonstrated in 25 s plasmas with H-mode and 102 s long-pulse discharges. Current density, safety factor (q), and electron density profiles are reconstructed using equilibrium fitting code (EFIT) with POINT constraints for the plasma core.

Identification of sex-specific urinary biomarkers for major depressive disorder by combined application of NMR- and GC-MS-based metabonomics

Women are more vulnerable to major depressive disorder (MDD) than men. However, molecular biomarkers of sex differences are limited. Here we combined gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)- and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabonomics to investigate sex differences of urinary metabolite markers in MDD, and further explore their potential of diagnosing MDD. Consequently, the metabolite signatures of women and men MDD subjects were significantly different from of that in their respective healthy controls (HCs). Twenty seven women and 36 men related differentially expressed metabolites were identified in MDD. Fourteen metabolites were changed in both women and men MDD subjects. Significantly, the women-specific (m-Hydroxyphenylacetate, malonate, glycolate, hypoxanthine, isobutyrate and azelaic acid) and men-specific (tyrosine, N-acetyl-d-glucosamine, N-methylnicotinamide, indoxyl sulfate, citrate and succinate) marker panels were further identified, which could differentiate men and women MDD patients from their respective HCs with higher accuracy than previously reported sex-nonspecific marker panels. Our findings demonstrate that men and women MDD patients have distinct metabonomic signatures and sex-specific biomarkers have promising values in diagnosing MDD.

A novel technique for real-time estimation of edge pedestal density gradients via reflectometer time delay data

A new model-based technique for fast estimation of the pedestal electron density gradient has been developed. The technique uses ordinary mode polarization profile reflectometer time delay data and does not require direct profile inversion. Because of its simple data processing, the technique can be readily implemented via a Field-Programmable Gate Array, so as to provide a real-time density gradient estimate, suitable for use in plasma control systems such as envisioned for ITER, and possibly for DIII-D and Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak. The method is based on a simple edge plasma model with a linear pedestal density gradient and low scrape-off-layer density. By measuring reflectometer time delays for three adjacent frequencies, the pedestal density gradient can be estimated analytically via the new approach. Using existing DIII-D profile reflectometer data, the estimated density gradients obtained from the new technique are found to be in good agreement with the actual density gradients for a number of dynamic DIII-D plasma conditions.

Optical configuration optimization and calibration for the POINT system on EAST

Calibration of the polarimeter system is one of the key elements to determine the overall measurement accuracy. The anisotropic reflection and transmission properties of the mesh beam splitters can easily distort the polarization state of the circularly polarized beams. Using a rotating crystal quartz λ/2-waveplate to replace the plasma can effectively allow us to obtain the ratio of the measured Faraday rotation angle to the known rotation angle of the waveplate. This ratio is used to estimate the calibration factor for each chord to be accurately determined and help to minimize distortions introduced by the wire-mesh beam splitters. With the novel configuration optimization, the distortion of polarization state is effectively eliminated.

Dust mite allergen, glutathione S-transferase, induces T cell immunoglobulin mucin domain-4 in dendritic cells to facilitate initiation of airway allergy

BACKGROUND

Allergens from dust mites play a critical role in the pathogenesis of airway allergy. The mechanism by which dust mite allergens induce allergic diseases is not fully understood yet.

OBJECTIVE

This study tests a hypothesis that the eighth subtypes of Dermatophagoides farina allergen (Derf8) play an important role in the induction of airway allergy.

METHODS

The protein of Derf8 was synthesized via molecular cloning approach. Dendritic cells (DC) were stimulated with Derf8 in the culture, and then, the expression of T cell immunoglobulin mucin domain 4 (TIM4) in dendritic cells (DC) was analysed. The role of Derf8 in the induction of airway allergy was evaluated with a mouse model.

RESULTS

Exposure to Derf8 markedly induced the TIM4 expression in DCs by modulating the chromatin at the TIM4 promoter locus. Derf8 played a critical role in the expansion of the T helper 2 response in the mouse airway via inducing DCs to produce TIM4. Administration with Derf8-depleted dust mite extracts (DME) inhibited the allergic inflammation and induced regulatory T cells in mice with airway allergy.

CONCLUSION

Derf8 plays an important role in the initiation of dust mite allergy. Vaccination with Derf8-deficient DME is more efficient to inhibit the dust mite allergic inflammation than using wild DME.