Acute Cellular Rejection and Infection Rates in Alemtuzumab vs Traditional Induction Therapy Agents for Lung and Heart Transplantation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Heart and lung transplantation is a high-risk procedure requiring intensive immunosuppressive therapy for preventing organ rejection. Alemtuzumab, a CD52-specific monoclonal antibody, is increasingly used for induction therapy compared with conventional agents. However, there has been no systematic review comparing its efficacy with traditional therapeutic drugs.

METHODS

PubMed and EMBASE were searched to October 1, 2017, for articles on alemtuzumab in cardiothoracic transplant surgery. Of the 433 studies retrieved, 8 were included in the final meta-analysis.

RESULTS

In lung transplantation, alemtuzumab use was associated with lower odds of acute cellular rejection compared with antithymocyte globulin (odds ratio [OR], 0.21; 95% CI, 0.11-0.40; P < .001), lower acute rejection rates (OR, 0.12; 95% CI, 0.03-0.55; P < .01), and infection rates (OR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.35-1.36; P = .33) when compared with basiliximab. Multivariate meta-regression analysis found that mean age, male sex, single lung transplant, double lung transplant, cytomegalovirus or Epstein-Barr virus status, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, cystic fibrosis, and mean ischemic time did not significantly influence acute rejection outcomes. For heart transplantation, alemtuzumab use was associated with lower acute rejection rates when compared with tacrolimus (OR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.30-0.66; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Alemtuzumab use was associated with lower rejection rates when compared with conventional induction therapy agents (antithymocyte globulin, basiliximab, and tacrolimus) in heart and lung transplantation. However, this was based on observational studies. Randomized controlled trials are needed to verify its clinical use.

Observation of the Semileptonic Decay D^{0}→a_{0}(980)^{-}e^{+}ν_{e} and Evidence for D^{+}→a_{0}(980)^{0}e^{+}ν_{e}

Using an e^{+}e^{-} collision data sample of 2.93  fb^{-1} collected at a center-of-mass energy of 3.773 GeV by the BESIII detector at BEPCII, we report the observation of D^{0}→a_{0}(980)^{-}e^{+}ν_{e} and evidence for D^{+}→a_{0}(980)^{0}e^{+}ν_{e} with significances of 6.4σ and 2.9σ, respectively. The absolute branching fractions are determined to be B(D^{0}→a_{0}(980)^{-}e^{+}ν_{e})×B(a_{0}(980)^{-}→ηπ^{-})=[1.33_{-0.29}^{+0.33}(stat)±0.09(syst)]×10^{-4} and B(D^{+}→a_{0}(980)^{0}e^{+}ν_{e})×B(a_{0}(980)^{0}→ηπ^{0})=[1.66_{-0.66}^{+0.81}(stat)±0.11(syst)]×10^{-4}. This is the first time the a_{0}(980) meson has been measured in a D^{0} semileptonic decay, which would open one more interesting page in the investigation of the nature of the puzzling a_{0}(980) states.

Measurement of the Absolute Branching Fraction of the Inclusive Decay Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X

Based on an e^{+}e^{-} collision data sample corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 567  pb^{-1} taken at the center-of-mass energy of sqrt[s]=4.6  GeV with the BESIII detector, we measure the absolute branching fraction of the inclusive decay Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X to be B(Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X)=(38.2_{-2.2}^{+2.8}±0.9)% using the double-tag method, where X refers to any possible final state particles. In addition, we search for direct CP violation in the charge asymmetry of this inclusive decay for the first time, and obtain A_{CP}≡[B(Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X)-B(Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-}→Λ[over ¯]+X)]/[B(Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X)+B(Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-}→Λ[over ¯]+X)]=(2.1_{-6.6}^{+7.0}±1.6)%, a statistically limited result with no evidence of CP violation.

Comparison of Single Piece of Dandruff DNA Extraction under Microscope and EZ-tape Method

OBJECTIVES

To collect single piece of dandruff with microscopes to improve the regular EZ-tape method for DNA extraction and genotyping, increase the utilization of samples, reduce the miss rate as well as the proportion of genotyping results of mixed stains.

METHODS

The insides of the hats worn by two volunteers were stuck by EZ-tape and scotch tape respectively. DNA on EZ-tape was directly extracted using traditional method. Single piece of dandruff was collected from the scotch tapes under microscope. The two kinds of methods were both performed under continuous oscillation and standing digestion, respectively. DNA was extracted through Chelex-100 method, and STR genotypes were obtained after amplification and electrophoresis. The results of STR genotypes obtained by EZ-tape method and single piece of dandruff analytical method were compared.

RESULTS

Miss detections happened in 11 samples （45.8%） by EZ-tape method and only single-source typing results were obtained. Ten samples （41.7%） showed the genotype results of mixed stain and six of which showed allele insertions and deletions. The genotype results were obtained successfully using the single piece of dandruff analytical method, and two samples showed mixed stain genotype. The number of exact typing processed by oscillation was higher than that by standing digestion （ P<0.05）.

CONCLUSIONS

The oscillation during the DNA extraction process is in favour of the DNA releasing. Single piece of dandruff analytical method can be used to obtain single-source STR genotype with high successful ratio and low miss rate. This method can be a collection method of special samples such as dandruff in forensic practice.

Glutamine supplementation improves intestinal cell proliferation and stem cell differentiation in weanling mice

BACKGROUND

Intestinal stem cells can be differentiated into absorptive enterocytes and secretory cells, including Paneth cells, goblet cells, and enteroendocrine cells. Glutamine is a primary metabolic fuel of small intestinal enterocytes and is essential for the viability and growth of intestinal cells.

OBJECTIVE

Whether glutamine supplementation affects the differentiation of intestinal stem cells is unknown.

DESIGN

Three-week-old ICR (Institute of Cancer Research) male mice were divided randomly into two groups: 1) mice receiving a basal diet and normal drinking water and 2) mice receiving a basal diet and drinking water supplemented with glutamine. After 2 weeks, the mice were sacrificed to collect the ileum for analysis.

RESULTS

The study found that glutamine supplementation in weanling mice decreases the crypt depth in the ileum, leading to higher ratio of villus to crypt in the ileum, but promotes cell proliferation of intestinal cells and mRNA expression of Lgr5 (leucine-rich repeat-containing g-protein coupled receptor5) in the ileum. Glutamine has no effect on the number of Paneth cells and goblet cells, and the expression of markers for absorptive enterocytes, Paneth cells, goblet cells, and enteroendocrine cells.

CONCLUSION

These findings reveal the beneficial effects of dietary glutamine supplementation to improve intestinal morphology in weanling mammals.

Clofazimine improves clinical outcomes in multidrug-resistant tuberculosis: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

We carried out a randomized multicentre study in China to investigate whether the clofazimine would improve the efficacy of the standardized regimen in patients with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB).

METHODS

Patients with MDR-TB managed in 17 TB specialist hospitals in China between September 2009 and September 2011 were randomly assigned to the treatment groups at enrolment. In the intervention group, 100 mg clofazimine per day was added to the standardized regimen. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with successful outcomes.

RESULTS

From the 156 patients that were screened, 74 were assigned to the control group and 66 to the clofazimine group. Of the 66 cases analysed for clinical outcome in the clofazimine group, 36 patients were cured, and seven completed treatment, yielding a favourable outcome rate of 65.1%. The proportion of patients with favourable outcomes receiving the control regimen was 47.3% (35/74), which was significantly lower than that in the clofazimine group (p 0.034, relative risk 0.661, 95% CI 0.243-0.949).

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of clofazimine to the standard regimen improved the treatment of MDR-TB.

Observation of a_{0}^{0}(980)-f_{0}(980) Mixing

We report the first observation of a_{0}^{0}(980)-f_{0}(980) mixing in the decays of J/ψ→ϕf_{0}(980)→ϕa_{0}^{0}(980)→ϕηπ^{0} and χ_{c1}→a_{0}^{0}(980)π^{0}→f_{0}(980)π^{0}→π^{+}π^{-}π^{0}, using data samples of 1.31×10^{9}  J/ψ events and 4.48×10^{8}  ψ(3686) events accumulated with the BESIII detector. The signals of f_{0}(980)→a_{0}^{0}(980) and a_{0}^{0}(980)→f_{0}(980) mixing are observed at levels of statistical significance of 7.4σ and 5.5σ, respectively. The corresponding branching fractions and mixing intensities are measured and the constraint regions on the coupling constants, g_{a_{0}K^{+}K^{-}} and g_{f_{0}K^{+}K^{-}}, are estimated. The results improve the understanding of the nature of a_{0}^{0}(980) and f_{0}(980).

Precision Study of η^{'}→γπ^{+}π^{-} Decay Dynamics

Using a low background data sample of 9.7×10^{5}  J/ψ→γη^{'}, η^{'}→γπ^{+}π^{-} events, which are 2 orders of magnitude larger than those from the previous experiments, recorded with the BESIII detector at BEPCII, the decay dynamics of η^{'}→γπ^{+}π^{-} are studied with both model-dependent and model-independent approaches. The contributions of ω and the ρ(770)-ω interference are observed for the first time in the decays η^{'}→γπ^{+}π^{-} in both approaches. Additionally, a contribution from the box anomaly or the ρ(1450) resonance is required in the model-dependent approach, while the process specific part of the decay amplitude is determined in the model-independent approach.

Transcriptomic analysis on responses of the liver and kidney of finishing pigs fed cadmium contaminated rice

BACKGROUND

Cadmium (Cd) is a common harmful substance that has many deleterious effects on the liver and kidney. Most reports about Cd toxic studies focused on its inorganic status, whereas the toxicity of Cd in organic materials is less studied. Here, we performed RNA-seq to explore the influences of Cd contaminated rice on function of the liver and kidney of finishing pigs.

RESULTS

The concentration of Cd in liver and kidney of pigs fed Cd contaminated rice increased by 4.00 and 2.94 times, respectively, compared to those in the control group. With transcriptomic analysis, approximately 4-6 × 10⁷ clean reads were acquired. Five differently expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the liver, and 12 DEGs in the kidney. SPHK2 was commonly down-regulated. No significantly enriched gene ontology (GO) terms were identified. By Kyoto encyclopaedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) enrichments, four pathways were identified in hepatic tissue, and five pathways in nephritic tissue. Intriguingly, two pathways (sphingolipid metabolism and VEGF signalling pathway) were altered both in the liver and kidney.

CONCLUSION

Cd contaminated rice may cause liver and kidney damage and inflammation, or even lead to more severe harm to these tissues. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Exploiting soil moisture, precipitation and streamflow observations to evaluate soil moisture/runoff coupling in land surface models

Accurate partitioning of precipitation into infiltration and runoff is a fundamental objective of land surface models tasked with characterizing the surface water and energy balance. Temporal variability in this partitioning is due, in part, to changes in pre-storm soil moisture, which determine soil infiltration capacity and unsaturated storage. Utilizing the NASA Soil Moisture Active Passive Level-4 soil moisture product in combination with streamflow and precipitation observations, we demonstrate that land surface models (LSMs) generally underestimate the strength of the positive rank correlation between pre-storm soil moisture and event runoff coefficients (i.e., the fraction of rainfall accumulation depth converted into stormflow runoff during a storm event). Underestimation is largest for LSMs employing an infiltration-excess approach for stormflow runoff generation. More accurate coupling strength is found in LSMs that explicitly represent sub-surface stormflow or saturation-excess runoff generation processes.

First detection of foot-and-mouth disease virus O/ME-SA/Ind2001 in China

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is endemic in China and is predominantly due to foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) serotype O Mya-98 lineage. In recent years, FMDV O/ME-SA/Ind2001 lineage has spread from the Indian subcontinent to South-East Asia, Middle East and Africa, which may pose potential threats for future trans-regional livestock movements. In this study, we identified the appearance of FMDV O/ME-SA/Ind2001 in China; the first time that this virus lineage has been found there. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of VP1 sequences revealed that this newly determined strain belongs to O/ME-SA/Ind2001 sublineage d and is closely related to strains that have caused recent outbreaks of FMD in Nepal, Myanmar, Russia and South Korea. The results suggest extensive movements of the current O/ME-SA/Ind2001 sublineage d viruses and provide essential information for an effective national FMDV control programme in China.

Epigenetics as a mechanism linking developmental exposures to long-term toxicity

A variety of experimental and epidemiological studies lend support to the Developmental Origin of Health and Disease (DOHaD) concept. Yet, the actual mechanisms accounting for mid- and long-term effects of early-life exposures remain unclear. Epigenetic alterations such as changes in DNA methylation, histone modifications and the expression of certain RNAs have been suggested as possible mediators of long-term health effects of environmental stressors. This report captures discussions and conclusions debated during the last Prenatal Programming and Toxicity meeting held in Japan. Its first aim is to propose a number of criteria that are critical to support the primary contribution of epigenetics in DOHaD and intergenerational transmission of environmental stressors effects. The main criteria are the full characterization of the stressors, the actual window of exposure, the target tissue and function, the specificity of the epigenetic changes and the biological plausibility of the linkage between those changes and health outcomes. The second aim is to discuss long-term effects of a number of stressors such as smoking, air pollution and endocrine disruptors in order to identify the arguments supporting the involvement of an epigenetic mechanism. Based on the developed criteria, missing evidence and suggestions for future research will be identified. The third aim is to critically analyze the evidence supporting the involvement of epigenetic mechanisms in intergenerational and transgenerational effects of environmental exposure and to particularly discuss the role of placenta and sperm. While the article is not a systematic review and is not meant to be exhaustive, it critically assesses the contribution of epigenetics in the long-term effects of environmental exposures as well as provides insight for future research.

A novel HLA-B allele, HLA-B*40:245 was identified in a patient with hepatitis B virus infection

A novel allele HLA-B*40:245 was discovered in a hepatitis B virus (HBV) infected patient.

Removing a metal foreign object successfully from a patient's retroperitoneal space using laparoscopy and a novel navigation system

Trauma with foreign objects retained within the human body has become a common surgical emergency condition. Traditional surgical methods often involve creating large incisions in soft tissue and may lead to additional complications during wound healing. We have developed a new method of removing foreign bodies from patients' abdomens by using laparoscopy with the help of a novel navigation system that provides accurate positioning. This approach is minimally invasive and simple. This is the first combination of both technologies in this field.

Precision Measurement of the e^{+}e^{-}→Λ_{c}^{+}Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-} Cross Section Near Threshold

The cross section of the e^{+}e^{-}→Λ_{c}^{+}Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-} process is measured with unprecedented precision using data collected with the BESIII detector at sqrt[s]=4574.5, 4580.0, 4590.0 and 4599.5 MeV. The nonzero cross section near the Λ_{c}^{+}Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-} production threshold is cleared. At center-of-mass energies sqrt[s]=4574.5 and 4599.5 MeV, the higher statistics data enable us to measure the Λ_{c} polar angle distributions. From these, the Λ_{c} electric over magnetic form-factor ratios (|G_{E}/G_{M}|) are measured for the first time. They are found to be 1.14±0.14±0.07 and 1.23±0.05±0.03, respectively, where the first uncertainties are statistical and the second are systematic.

[X-linked immunodeficiency with magnesium defect, Epstein-Barr virus infection, and neoplasia: report of a family and literature review]

Objective: To investigate the clinical features and genetic characteristics of cases with X-linked immunodeficiency with magnesium defect, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, and neoplasia (XMEN). Methods: Characteristics of clinical material, immunological data and gene mutation of two cases with XMEN in the same family in China were retrospectively analyzed. The related reports literature were searched by using search terms'MAGT1 gene'or'XMEN'. Results: The proband, a 2-year-eight-month old boy, was admitted due to 'Urine with deepened color for two days and yellow stained skin for one day'. He had suffered from recurrent upper respiratory tract infection and sinusitis previously. Hemoglobin level was 38 g/L. The absolute count of reticulocytes was 223.2×10(9)/L. Urobilinogen level was 38 μmol/L (3-16 μmol/L). Coomb's test was positive. Both total (77.2 μmol/L) and indirect bilirubin (66 μmol/L) levels were elevated. There was an inverted CD4(+)/CD8(+)T cell ratio (0.89). The gene sequencing results showed MAGT1 gene c.472delG, p.D158Mfs*6 mutation. His 1-year-6-month old brother, was also identified to have MAGT1 gene c.472delG, p.D158Mfs*6 mutation.The younger brother mainly suffered from recurrent upper respiratory tract infection, accompanied by an inverted CD4(+)/CD8(+)T cell ratio (0.45), an elevated ratio and number of total B cells (45.7%). A total of 7 reports were retrieved including 11 male cases caused by MAGT1 gene mutation. These 11 cases were characterized by EBV viremia (11 cases), recurrent upper respiratory tract infection, otitis media or sinusitis (10 cases), secondary neoplasia diseases (8 cases), reduction of CD4(+)/CD8(+) T cell ratio (7 cases),and autoimmune thrombocytopenia or hemolytic anemia (2 cases). Conclusion: XMEN often manifests as male onset, recurrent upper respiratory tract infection, otitis media or sinusitis, EBV viremia, lymphoproliferative disease or lymphoma, autoimmune diseases and reduction of CD4(+)/CD8 (+)T cell ratio. NKG2D expression in NK cells is significantly reduced, and gene sequencing analysis shows a pathogenic mutation in MAGT1 gene.

Synergistic inhibition of cell proliferation by combined targeting with kinase inhibitors and dietary xanthone is a promising strategy for melanoma treatment

α-Mangostin is a dietary xanthone that displays various biological activities, and numerous reports have shown its efficacy in cancer prevention and inhibition. As most agents have been shown to be ineffective as single-agent therapy for malignant melanoma (MM), the principle of targeted chemotherapy for MM is to use effective inhibitors and combination methods. In this study, we tested the cytotoxicity of several kinase inhibitors, including the glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3 inhibitor CHIR99021, and rapamycin, in combination with a dietary xanthone, α-mangostin, by screening from a kinase inhibitor library for melanogenesis in SK-MEL-2 MM cells, and verified these by clone formation efficiency, terminal dUTP nick end labelling, and expression of apoptosis-related proteins. We also explored the molecular mechanisms for the apoptosis-inducing effects reported. We found a marked synergistic effect of CHIR99021 or rapamycin in combination with α-mangostin, which we verified through apoptosis-related methods. These data provide a strong rationale for the use of α-mangostin as an adjunct to GSK-3 inhibitor or mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor treatment. The intrinsic mechanism behind α-mangostin might be inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/AKT signalling and autophagy, and induction of reactive oxygen species generation.

[Efficacy of Weitan Waifu patch on the postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome of gastrointestinal cancer: a multi-center trial]

Objective: To investigate the safety and efficacy of the Weitan Waifu patch on the postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome (PGS) of gastrointestinal cancer. Methods: The multi-center, double-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted with superiority design. Patients with PGS of gastrointestinal cancer diagnosed in 4 AAA hospitals and the abdominal symptom manifested as cold syndrome by Chinese local syndrome differentiation were recruited. These patients were randomly divided into two groups according to 1∶1 proportion. Placebo or Weitan Waifu patch was applied in control group or intervention group, respectively, based on the basic treatments, including nutrition support, gastrointestinal decompression, promoting gastric dynamics medicine.Two acupuncture points (Zhongwan and Shenque) were stuck with placebo in control group or patch in treatment group. The intervention course was 14 days or reached the effective standard. Results: From July 15, 2013 to Jun 3, 2015, 128 participants were recruited and 120 eligible cases were included in the full analysis set (FAS), and 60 cases in each group. 88 cases were included in the per-protocol set (PPS), including 45 cases in the treatment group and 43 cases in the control group. In the FAS, the clinical effective rate in the treatment group was 68.3%, significantly superior than 41.7% of the control group (P=0.003). The medium time of effective therapy in the treatment group was 8 days, significantly shorter than 10 days in the control group (P=0.017). In the FAS, 3 adverse events occurred in the treatment group, including mild to moderate decrustation, pruritus and nausea. The incidence rate of adverse events was 5.0% (3/60) and these symptoms were spontaneously remitted after drug withdrawal. No severe adverse events were observed in the control group. There was no significant difference between these two groups (P=0.244). Conclusion: Weitan Waifu patch is a safely and effectively therapeutic method for patients with PGS (cold syndrome) of gastroenterological cancer. Trial registration: International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number Register, ISRCTN18291857.

[Identification and analysis of the proteins interacted with Prestin in cochlear outer hair cells of guinea pig]

Objective: To explore the regulation and mechanism of Prestin protein by identifying the proteins interacted with Prestin in cochlear outer hair cell(OHC) and analyzing their biological function. Methods: Co-immunoprecipitation combined mass spectrometry technology was used to isolate and identify the proteins interacted with Prestin protein of OHC, bioinformatics was used to construct Prestin protein interaction network. The proteins interacted with Prestin in OHC of guinea pig were determined by matching primary interaction mass spectrometry with protein interaction network, and annotated their functions. Results: The results of co-immunoprecipitation combined with mass spectrometry showed that 116 kinds of credible proteins could interact with Prestin. By constructing Prestin protein interaction network, matching the results of mass spectrometry and analyzing of sub-cellular localization, eight kinds of proteins were confirmed that they interacted with Prestin directly, namely EEF2, HSP90AB1, FN1, FLNA, EEF1A1, HSP90B1, ATP5A1, and ERH, respectively, which were mainly involved in the synthesis and transportation, transmembrane folding and localization, structural stability and signal transduction of Prestin protein. Conclusion: EEF2, HSP90AB1, FN1, FLNA, EEF1A1, HSP90B1, ATP5A1 and ERH provide molecular basis for sensory amplification function of OHCs by participating in biotransformation, transmembrane folding and localization, signal transduction and other biological processes of Prestin protein.

Relationship between methylation status of RASSF2A gene promoter and endometriosis-associated ovarian cancer

Relationship between the methylation status of the RASSF2A gene promoter and endometriosis-associated ovarian cancer (EAOC) was explored. Between January 2013 and January 2016, tissue samples were collected from 30 patients diagnosed with ovarian endometriosis cyst (EC group), 30 patients diagnosed with ovarian endometrial adenocarcinoma (OEA group) and 30 patients diagnosed with ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCC group). Additionally, 30 cases of normal endometrium tissues were collected for the control group. The methylation status of the RASSF2A promoter was evaluated by combined bisulfite restriction enzyme analysis (COBRA). RT-PCR was used to detect the expression level of RASSF2A mRNA in tissues. Relationship between methylation status and RASSF2A mRNA expression level and the patient age, tumor clinical stage, tumor grading and pathological type were analyzed. Results showed that in the OEA and OCC groups, the methylation degrees of the RASSF2A promoter were obviously higher than that of the other two groups. The expression level of RASSF2A mRNA in the OEA and OCC groups was lower than that of the other two groups. The methylation degree of the RASSF2A promoter was related to clinical staging and grading. No relationship between the methylation degree of the RASSF2A promoter and patient’s age and the pathological type of the tissue was detected. We concluded that the methylation status of the RASSF2A gene promoter could be considered an excellent indicator for early detection of ovarian cancers.

Traumatic Multiple Fractures Associated with Blunt Diaphragmatic Rupture and Diaphragmatic Hernia: A Case Report

Traumatic multiple fractures are a serious, infrequent and potentially life-threatening medical emergency. In addition, traumatic blunt diaphragmatic rupture and diaphragmatic hernia are rare and potentially life-threatening clinical entities associated with injuries. A case of traumatic multiple fractures associated with blunt diaphragmatic rupture and diaphragmatic hernia is reported. The operative management of this type of injury and clinical experience are discussed. (Hong Kong j.emerg.med. 2011;18:424-427)

[Ras-associated autoimmune leukoproliferative disorder: a report of 2 cases and literature review]

Objective: To investigate the clinical features and genetic characteristics of cases with Ras-associated autoimmune leukoproliferative disorder(RALD). Method: Characteristics of clinical data and gene mutation of the first two cases in China with RALD were retrospectively analyzed. The related literature was searched by using search terms "NRAS" , "KRAS" or "RALD" . Result: Case1, a seven-year-seven-month old girl, was admitted due to "thrombocytopenia and splenomegaly for three years" . Palpation showed enlargement of submandibular lymph nodes and hepatosplenomegaly.The platelet count fluctuated between 15×10(9)/L and 60×10(9)/L. Hemoglobin was as 57 g/L and Coomb's test was positive.Lung computed tomography revealed interstitial lung disease, bilateral pleural effusion, pericardial effusion, myocardial injury and ascites. Case2, a seven-year-five-month old girl, was admitted due to "recurrent thrombocytopenia for seven years, intermittent eyelid and abdominal swelling for three years" . Palpation showed enlargement of cervical and right inguinal lymph nodes, and hepatosplenomegaly.The number of platelet and monocyte were 9×10(9)/L and 5.46×10(9)/L, respectively. Bone marrow smear revealed an increase in the proportion of primitive immature cells (0.09 to 0.11). Lung computed tomography revealed interstitial lung disease, pericardial effusion, cardiac enlargement and pulmonary hypertension. The gene sequencing results showed KRAS gene c.38G> A somatic mutation in case1, and p.G12D and NRAS gene c.38G> A, p.G13D somatic mutation in case2. A total of 8 reports were retrieved including 23 cases caused by NRAS(10 cases) or KRAS(13 cases) gene somatic mutation. All the 23 cases showed hypergammaglobulinemia, splenomegaly, B cells hyperplasia or mononucleosis. Conclusion: RALD often manifests as hepatosplenomegaly,lymphoproliferation, autoimmune hematocytopenia, B cells hyperplasia or mononucleosis, hypergammaglobulinemia. Gene sequencing analysis can help diagnose the disease.

Focal Low and Global High Permeability Predict the Possibility, Risk, and Location of Hemorrhagic Transformation following Intra-Arterial Thrombolysis Therapy in Acute Stroke

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The contrast volume transfer coefficient (K^trans), which reflects blood-brain barrier permeability, is influenced by circulation and measurement conditions. We hypothesized that focal low BBB permeability values can predict the spatial distribution of hemorrhagic transformation and global high BBB permeability values can predict the likelihood of hemorrhagic transformation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively enrolled 106 patients with hemispheric stroke who received intra-arterial thrombolytic treatment. K^trans maps were obtained with first-pass perfusion CT data. The K^trans values at the region level, obtained with the Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score system, were compared to determine the differences between the hemorrhagic transformation and nonhemorrhagic transformation regions. The K^trans values of the whole ischemic region based on baseline perfusion CT were obtained as a variable to hemorrhagic transformation possibility at the global level.

RESULTS

Forty-eight (45.3%) patients had hemorrhagic transformation, and 21 (19.8%) had symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. At the region level, there were 82 ROIs with hemorrhagic transformation and parenchymal hemorrhage with a mean K^trans, 0.5 ± 0.5/min, which was significantly lower than that in the nonhemorrhagic transformation regions (P < .01). The mean K^trans value of 615 nonhemorrhagic transformation ROIs was 0.7 ± 0.6/min. At the global level, there was a significant difference (P = .01) between the mean K^trans values of patients with symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (1.3 ± 0.9) and those without symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (0.8 ± 0.4). Only a high K^trans value at the global level could predict the occurrence of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (P < .01; OR = 5.04; 95% CI, 2.01-12.65).

CONCLUSIONS

Global high K^trans values can predict the likelihood of hemorrhagic transformation or symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage at the patient level, whereas focal low K^trans values can predict the spatial distributions of hemorrhagic transformation at the region level.

Motion compensation for cone-beam CT using Fourier consistency conditions

In cone-beam CT, involuntary patient motion and inaccurate or irreproducible scanner motion substantially degrades image quality. To avoid artifacts this motion needs to be estimated and compensated during image reconstruction. In previous work we showed that Fourier consistency conditions (FCC) can be used in fan-beam CT to estimate motion in the sinogram domain. This work extends the FCC to [Formula: see text] cone-beam CT. We derive an efficient cost function to compensate for [Formula: see text] motion using [Formula: see text] detector translations. The extended FCC method have been tested with five translational motion patterns, using a challenging numerical phantom. We evaluated the root-mean-square-error and the structural-similarity-index between motion corrected and motion-free reconstructions. Additionally, we computed the mean-absolute-difference (MAD) between the estimated and the ground-truth motion. The practical applicability of the method is demonstrated by application to respiratory motion estimation in rotational angiography, but also to motion correction for weight-bearing imaging of knees. Where the latter makes use of a specifically modified FCC version which is robust to axial truncation. The results show a great reduction of motion artifacts. Accurate estimation results were achieved with a maximum MAD value of 708 μm and 1184 μm for motion along the vertical and horizontal detector direction, respectively. The image quality of reconstructions obtained with the proposed method is close to that of motion corrected reconstructions based on the ground-truth motion. Simulations using noise-free and noisy data demonstrate that FCC are robust to noise. Even high-frequency motion was accurately estimated leading to a considerable reduction of streaking artifacts. The method is purely image-based and therefore independent of any auxiliary data.

Determination of the Spin and Parity of the Z_{c}(3900)

The spin and parity of the Z_{c}(3900)^{±} state are determined to be J^{P}=1^{+} with a statistical significance larger than 7σ over other quantum numbers in a partial wave analysis of the process e^{+}e^{-}→π^{+}π^{-}J/ψ. We use a data sample of 1.92  fb^{-1} accumulated at sqrt[s]=4.23 and 4.26 GeV with the BESIII experiment. When parametrizing the Z_{c}(3900)^{±} with a Flatté-like formula, we determine its pole mass M_{pole}=(3881.2±4.2_{stat}±52.7_{syst})  MeV/c^{2} and pole width Γ_{pole}=(51.8±4.6_{stat}±36.0_{syst})  MeV. We also measure cross sections for the process e^{+}e^{-}→Z_{c}(3900)^{+}π^{-}+c.c.→J/ψπ^{+}π^{-} and determine an upper limit at the 90% confidence level for the process e^{+}e^{-}→Z_{c}(4020)^{+}π^{-}+c.c.→J/ψπ^{+}π^{-}.

Aspartate β-hydroxylase disrupts mitochondrial DNA stability and function in hepatocellular carcinoma

The mechanism of aberrant mitochondrial genome and function in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains largely unknown. Our previous study demonstrated an increased expression of aspartate β-hydroxylase (ASPH) in HCC tissues, which was associated with tumor invasiveness and a worse prognosis. Currently, we unexpectedly observed the presence of ASPH in purified mitochondrial protein fraction. In addition, immunostaining of both exogenously and endogenously expressed ASPH showed a colocalization with mitochondrial biomarkers. This study aimed to investigate whether the mitochondrial ASPH is involved in mitochondrial malfunction in HCC. Our results showed that ASPH overexpression in HCC tissues was correlated with decreased copy numbers of displacement loop (D-loop) and NADH dehydrogenase subunit 1 (ND-1) and enhanced D-loop mutation, suggesting the disrupted mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) stability. The reduced mtDNA copy numbers were associated with aggressive clinicopathological features of HCC. The loss of mtDNA integrity induced by enforced expression of ASPH was accompanied with mitochondrial dysfunction, which was characterized by the aberrant mitochondrial membrane potential, decreased ATP generation and enhanced reactive oxygen species. In contrast, knocking down ASPH by siRNA in HCC cell lines showed the opposite impact on mtDNA integrity and function. Mass spectrometry and co-immunoprecipitation further identified that ASPH interacted with histone H2A member X (H2AX). ASPH overexpression diminished the interaction between H2AX and mitochondrial transcription factor A (mtTFA), an important DNA-binding protein for mtDNA replication, which then reduced the binding of mtTFA to D-loop region. Collectively, our results demonstrate that ASPH overexpression disrupts the mtDNA integrity through H2AX-mtTFA signal, thereby affecting mitochondrial functions in HCC.

[Experience of Sun's procedure for chronic type B dissection with aortic arch involvement]

Objective: To study the surgical treatment of chronic type B dissection with aortic arch involvement using Sun's procedure. Methods: Between February 2009 and December 2015, 29 patients [20 males, 9 females, with a mean age of (41±12) years, range 24-64 years] with type B dissection with aortic arch involvement underwent Sun's procedure. Sixteen patient had a history of hypertension. Marfan syndrome was observed in 9 cases, coronary artery disease in 3 cases, mitral regurgitation in 3 patients, cerebrovascular disease in one patient. Twenty-two patients suffered proximal aortic arch disease, 4 cases experienced history of aortic root procedure and 2 subjects had history of pregnancy. Four patients had aortic arch malformation. Results: One case suffered from massive cerebral infarction after surgery and died in another hospital. Concomitant procedures included mitral valve replacement in 3 cases, coronary artery bypass grafting in 3 patients, reconstruction of the right aberrant subclavian artery in one patient. Ventilator support exceeding 24 hours obseved in 2 patients. One of them recieved continuous renal replacement therapy and recovered before discharge. Spinal cord injury was obseved in one case, brain infarction in one patient and pericardial drainage in one case. Two patients required tracheotomy. During 12-94 (43±23) months' follow-up, thoracoabdominal aortic replacment was performed in 4 patients, thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) in 2 subjects and repair of perivalvular leakage in one patient. Conclusions: Sun's procedure obtained satisfactory results in patients with chronic type B dissection with aortic arch involvement. Concomitant repair of proximal aortic arch lesions and distal type B dissection can be adopted using Sun's procedure.

[A retrospective analysis of clinical characteristics and prognostic factors for 124 cases of primary gastric lymphomas]

目的

探讨原发胃淋巴瘤（PGL）的临床特征、治疗方法及预后。

方法

以2009年7月至2016年1月收治的124例PGL患者为研究对象，回顾性分析患者的临床资料，并探讨患者初诊时临床特征与预后的关系。

结果

124例PGL患者中包括弥漫大B细胞淋巴瘤（DLBCL）93例、黏膜相关淋巴组织（MALT）淋巴瘤25例、外周T细胞淋巴瘤非特指型4例、套细胞淋巴瘤和结外NK/T细胞淋巴瘤各1例。93例原发胃DLBCL（PG-DLBCL）患者中，非生发中心型（non-GCB）48例，生发中心型（GCB）45例，其中10例（10.8%）为MALT淋巴瘤转化的DLBCL。胃幽门螺杆菌检测：DLBCL患者阳性率51.2%（21/41），MALT淋巴瘤患者阳性率43.5%（10/23）。单因素分析结果显示临床分期Ⅲ~Ⅳ期（P=0.002）、B症状（P=0.001）、高国际预后指数（P<0.001）、HGB<100 g/L（P<0.001）、白蛋白<35 g/L（P=0.001）、LDH升高（P<0.001）、β₂微球蛋白升高（P=0.003）、未联合利妥昔单抗（P=0.006）是影响PG-DLBCL患者无进展生存（PFS）的不良因素。多因素分析结果显示临床分期Ⅲ~Ⅳ期（HR=5.113，95%CI 1.087~24.048，P=0.039）、LDH升高（HR=5.111，95%CI 1.651~15.827，P=0.005）是影响患者PFS的独立危险因素。在PG-DLBCL non-GCB型组，是否接受利妥昔单抗治疗对患者PFS率的影响差异有统计学意义（P=0.013）。MALT淋巴瘤转化与非转化的DLBCL患者PFS率差异无统计学意义（P=0.373）。

结论

PGL以DLBCL和MALT淋巴瘤多见，PG-DLBCL是一组高度异质性的恶性肿瘤，临床分期Ⅲ~Ⅳ期和LDH升高是影响PG-DLBCL患者PFS的独立危险因素。