Bone morphogenetic protein 9 is a candidate prognostic biomarker and host-directed therapy target for sepsis

Defining next-generation immune therapeutics for the treatment of sepsis will involve biomarker-based therapeutic decision-making. Bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9) is a cytokine in the transforming growth factor-β superfamily. Here, circulating BMP9 concentrations were quantified in two independent cohorts of patients with sepsis. Decreased concentrations of serum BMP9 were observed in the patients with sepsis at the time of admission as compared with healthy controls. Concentrations of BMP9 at the time of admission were also associated with 28-day mortality, because patients with sepsis at a higher risk of death had lower BMP9 concentrations. The mechanism driving the contribution of BMP9 to host immunity was further investigated using in vivo murine sepsis models and in vitro cell models. We found that BMP9 treatment improved outcome in mice with experimental sepsis. BMP9-treated mice exhibited increased macrophage influx into the peritoneal cavity and more efficient bacterial clearance than untreated mice. In vitro, BMP9 promoted macrophage recruitment, phagocytosis, and subsequent bacterial killing. We further found that deletion of the type 1 BMP receptor ALK1 in macrophages abolished BMP9-mediated protection against polymicrobial sepsis in vivo. Further experiments indicated that the regulation of macrophage activation by the BMP9-ALK1 axis was mainly mediated through the suppressor of mother against decapentaplegic 1/5 signaling pathway. Together, these results suggest that BMP9 can both serve as a biomarker for patient stratification with an independent prognostic value and be developed as a host-directed therapy for sepsis.

Absence of toll-like receptor 7 ameliorates survival and reduces intestinal injury in mice after Clostridium difficile infection

Clostridioides difficile (CD) is a major cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and pseudomembranous enteritis. C. difficile infection (CDI) is increasingly present in the community and represents a significant burden on the healthcare system. Identification of novel immune-based therapeutic targets from a better understanding of their molecular pathogenesis is urgently required. Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) is an important pattern recognition receptor and function as an immune sensor that can trigger host defenses against pathogens, but the relationship between TLR7 and CDI remains unknown. Here, we reported that the expression levels of TLR7 increased significantly in patients and mice with CDI. Absence of TLR7 in mice with CDI demonstrated enhanced bacterial clearance of intestinal contents and reduced intestinal inflammation, edema, injury and prolonged the survival. TLR7 loss decreased the concentrations of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interferon (IFN)-γ and IFN-α1 in the intestine and improved tissue damage and inflammation. Flow cytometry and immunofluorescence results indicated that TLR7 enhanced leukocyte recruitment in the infected intestine. In-vitro results have shown that TLR7 impairs the phagocytosis and killing ability of macrophages to CD, prompts reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and accelerates apoptosis. To our knowledge, our study first identified TLR7 as a critical factor that contributes to the immunopathology of CDI, suggesting that targeting TLR7 might serve as a potential treatment for CDI.

miR-486-5p Attenuates Steroid-Induced Adipogenesis and Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head Via TBX2/P21 Axis

Enhanced adipogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is considered as a major risk factor for steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (SOFNH). The role of microRNAs during this process has sparked interest. miR-486-5p expression was down-regulated significantly in femoral head bone tissues of both SONFH patients and rat models. The purpose of this study was to reveal the role of miR-486-5p on MSCs adipogenesis and SONFH progression. The present study showed that miR-486-5p could significantly inhibit adipogenesis of 3T3-L1 cells by suppressing mitotic clonal expansion (MCE). And upregulated expression of P21, which was caused by miR-486-5p mediated TBX2 decrease, was responsible for inhibited MCE. Further, miR-486-5p was demonstrated to effectively inhibit steroid-induced fat formation in the femoral head and prevented SONFH progression in a rat model. Considering the potent effects of miR-486-5p on attenuating adipogenesis, it seems to be a promising target for the treatment of SONFH.

Efficient Spin-to-Charge Conversion via Altermagnetic Spin Splitting Effect in Antiferromagnet RuO_{2}

The relativistic spin Hall effect and inverse spin Hall effect enable the efficient generation and detection of spin current. Recently, a nonrelativistic altermagnetic spin splitting effect (ASSE) has been theoretically and experimentally reported to generate time-reversal-odd spin current with controllable spin polarization in antiferromagnet RuO_{2}. The inverse effect, electrical detection of spin current via ASSE, still remains elusive. Here we show the spin-to-charge conversion stemming from ASSE in RuO_{2} by the spin Seebeck effect measurements. Unconventionally, the spin Seebeck voltage can be detected even when the injected spin current is polarized along the directions of either the voltage channel or the thermal gradient, indicating the successful conversion of x- and z-spin polarizations into the charge current. The crystal axes-dependent conversion efficiency further demonstrates that the nontrivial spin-to-charge conversion in RuO_{2} is ascribed to ASSE, which is distinct from the magnetic or antiferromagnetic inverse spin Hall effects. Our finding not only advances the emerging research landscape of altermagnetism, but also provides a promising pathway for the spin detection.

Association between CYP2E1 C-1054T and 96-bp I/D genetic variations and the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome in Chinese women

PURPOSE

To investigate the association of cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) C-1054T (rs2031920) and 96-bp I/D genetic variations with the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and to estimate the effects of genotypes on the clinical, metabolic, hormonal, and oxidative stress indicators.

METHODS

This case-control study included 762 control women and 1034 patients with PCOS. Genotypes were determined using polymerase chain reaction and/or restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. Clinical and biochemical parameters were also analyzed.

RESULTS

Frequencies of the TT + CT genotype (35.4 vs. 28.9%) and T allele (19.6 vs. 16.0%) of the CYP2E1 C-1054T polymorphism were significantly higher in the PCOS group than in the control group (OR = 1.350, 95% CI 1.103-1.652, P = 0.004 for the dominant model). Genotype TT + CT remained a significant predictor of PCOS in a logistic regression model including age, body mass index (BMI), and recruitment year of participants (OR = 1.345, 95% CI 1.071-1.688, P = 0.011). No statistical differences were found in the genotype and allele frequencies of CYP2E1 96-bp I/D polymorphism. However, the combined genotype DD/TT + CT was related to an increased risk of PCOS when the DD/CC wild-type combined genotype was used as a reference. Patients with the I allele of 96-bp I/D polymorphism had a lower BMI but higher plasma apolipoprotein B and oxidized low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels than those with the DD genotype.

CONCLUSION

CYP2E1 C-1054T, but not 96-bp I/D, genetic polymorphism is associated with an increased risk of PCOS in Chinese women.

Investigating the mechanism of interactive regulation of B-cell lymphoma-2/Beclin 1 through electroacupuncture intervention during reperfusion in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in a rat model

To observe the regulation of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2)/Beclin 1 interaction through electroacupuncture (EA) intervention during reperfusion and to investigate the EA mechanism of apoptosis-autophagy interactive regulation against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI). A total of 48 adult Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into the sham-operated group (group Sham), the model group (group Model), the EA group (group EA), and the JNK inhibitor (SP600125) group (group JNK), with 12 rats in each group. Biospecimens were collected randomly from six rats in each group four hours after reperfusion. Evans Blue and triphenyl tetrazolium chloride double-staining were applied to observe each group's myocardial damage area and risk area. We collected 4 ml of blood by abdominal aortic method to detect serum troponin cTnI level by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). For the remaining six in each group, a part of myocardial tissue below the ligation line was stored in 4% paraformaldehyde for immunohistochemistry and TUNEL staining; the other amount of myocardial tissue was detected by Western blotting to determine the expression levels of Bcl-2, Beclin1, and the phosphorylation levels of Thr69, Ser70, and Ser87 in Bcl-2. In results: electroacupuncture (EA) intervention during reperfusion significantly reduced the myocardial infarction area, cTnI level, and myocardial apoptosis, upregulated Bcl-2 expression, downregulated Beclin 1 expression and inhibited phosphorylation levels of Thr69, Ser70, and Ser87 in Bcl-2. We concluded that EA effectively inhibited apoptosis by upregulating Bcl-2 expression and inhibiting the phosphorylation of Thr69, Ser70, and Ser87 in Bcl-2. This reduced the separation of Bcl-2 and Beclin 1, restrains excessive autophagy, alleviates MIRI, and has a protective effect on myocardial tissue.

Intranuclear cardiac troponin I plays a functional role in regulating Atp2a2 expression in cardiomyocytes

In the past studies, it is shown that cardiac troponin I (cTnI, encoded by TNNI3), as a cytoplasmic protein, is an inhibitory subunit in troponin complex, and involves in cardiomyocyte diastolic regulation. Here, we assessed a novel role of cTnI as a nucleoprotein. Firstly, the nuclear translocation of cTnI was found in mouse, human fetuses and rat heart tissues. In addition, there were differences in percentage of intranuclear cTnI in different conditions. Based on weighted gene co-expression network analyses (WGCNA) and verification in cell experiments, a strong expression correlation was found between TNNI3 and Atp2a2, which encodes sarco-endoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺ ATPase isoform 2a (SERCA2a), and involves in ATP hydrolysis and Ca²⁺ transient. TNNI3 gain and loss caused Atpa2a2 increase/decrease in a dose-dependent manner both in mRNA and protein levels, in vivo and in vitro. By using ChIP-sequence we demonstrated specific binding DNA sequences of cTnI were enriched in ATP2a2 promoter −239∼–889 region and the specific binding sequence motif of cTnI was analyzed by software as "CCAT", which has been reported to be required for YY1 binding to the promoter region of YY1-related genes. Moreover, it was further verified that pcDNA3.1 (−)-TNNI3 could express cTnI proteins and increase the promoter activity of Atp2a2 through luciferase report assay. In the end, we evaluated beat frequencies, total ATP contents, Ca²⁺ transients in TNNI3-siRNA myocardial cells. These findings indicated, for the first time, cTnI may regulate Atp2a2 in cardiomyocytes as a co-regulatory factor and participate in the regulation of intracellular Ca ions.

Bone mineral density, osteopenia and osteoporosis among US adults with cancer

BACKGROUND

Bone mineral deficits are one of the most common complications in cancer survivors. However, there are no studies evaluating bone mineral density (BMD) and the prevalence of osteopenia and osteoporosis among patients with different types of cancers.

AIM

The objective was to assess BMD and evaluate the prevalence of osteopenia and osteoporosis among US adults with cancer.

DESIGN

A cross-section propensity score matching study.

METHODS

We extracted data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database from 2005 to 2018. We compared BMD in participants with and without cancer which was further analyzed according to cancer type. We conducted logistic regression to evaluate adjusted odds ratios of osteopenia and osteoporosis and determine risk factors for their development.

RESULTS

We found that BMD was significantly higher in participants without cancer than cancer patients. Furthermore, the median BMD of patients with breast cancer or skin cancer (including melanoma) was significantly lower than participants without cancer. People with breast, lung, genitourinary and skin cancers were more likely to incur osteopenia/osteoporosis than those without cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

BMD differs depending upon type in survivors. Individuals with a history of cancer have a poor understanding of osteoporosis and its risk factors. Understanding risk factors in patients with cancers identified in our study may be helpful for preventing osteoporosis and fractures and the development of screening guidelines.

Robust deep learning-based protein sequence design using ProteinMPNN

Although deep learning has revolutionized protein structure prediction, almost all experimentally characterized de novo protein designs have been generated using physically based approaches such as Rosetta. Here, we describe a deep learning-based protein sequence design method, ProteinMPNN, that has outstanding performance in both in silico and experimental tests. On native protein backbones, ProteinMPNN has a sequence recovery of 52.4% compared with 32.9% for Rosetta. The amino acid sequence at different positions can be coupled between single or multiple chains, enabling application to a wide range of current protein design challenges. We demonstrate the broad utility and high accuracy of ProteinMPNN using x-ray crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, and functional studies by rescuing previously failed designs, which were made using Rosetta or AlphaFold, of protein monomers, cyclic homo-oligomers, tetrahedral nanoparticles, and target-binding proteins.

[Influence of age on advanced neoplasia detection in colorectal cancer screening in population at high risk]

Objective: To compare the detection rate of advanced neoplasia and the number of people needing endoscopy in colorectal cancer screening giving at different starting age in population at high risk. Methods: Based on the screening project of early diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer in Jiashan county, Zhejiang province, two rounds of colorectal cancer screening were conducted between January 2007 and December 2020. After excluding participants who were not at high risk or had incomplete information, 27 130 participants and 31 205 participants were finally enrolled in round one and in round two, respectively. The spline analysis based on the generalized additive model was used to describe the trend of detection rate of advanced neoplasia with age. The detection rate and number of people needing endoscopy for the groups with starting age at 50, 45 and 40 years were calculated, and the differences in the detection rate were tested by χ² goodness of fit test. Results: A total of 21 077 (77.69%) participants in round one and 25 249 (80.91%) participants in round two received endoscopy, in whom 1 097 (detection rate=52.05‰) and 1 151 (detection rate=45.59‰) had advanced neoplasia (cancers and advanced adenomas), respectively. The detection rate increased significantly with age, and the detection rate in round one were significantly higher than that in round two (P<0.05). The overall detection rates of advanced neoplasia for the groups with starting age at 50, 45 and 40 years were 61.11‰, 56.14‰ and 52.05‰ in round one, and 49.10‰, 46.75‰ and 45.59‰ in round two, respectively. The rates were significantly higher for the group with starting age at 50 years than that with starting age at 40 years in both round one and round two (P<0.05). The numbers of people needing endoscopy of advanced neoplasia for the groups with starting age at 50, 45 and 40 years were 17, 18, and 20 in round one, and 21, 22 and 22 in round two. Conclusions: The detection rate of advanced neoplasia increased with age. Starting screening at lower age might contribute to decreased detection rate and increased number of people needing endoscopy. However, the difference was limited.

[Influence of age on advanced neoplasia detection in colorectal cancer screening in population at high risk]

Objective: To compare the detection rate of advanced neoplasia and the number of people needing endoscopy in colorectal cancer screening giving at different starting age in population at high risk. Methods: Based on the screening project of early diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer in Jiashan county, Zhejiang province, two rounds of colorectal cancer screening were conducted between January 2007 and December 2020. After excluding participants who were not at high risk or had incomplete information, 27 130 participants and 31 205 participants were finally enrolled in round one and in round two, respectively. The spline analysis based on the generalized additive model was used to describe the trend of detection rate of advanced neoplasia with age. The detection rate and number of people needing endoscopy for the groups with starting age at 50, 45 and 40 years were calculated, and the differences in the detection rate were tested by χ² goodness of fit test. Results: A total of 21 077 (77.69%) participants in round one and 25 249 (80.91%) participants in round two received endoscopy, in whom 1 097 (detection rate=52.05‰) and 1 151 (detection rate=45.59‰) had advanced neoplasia (cancers and advanced adenomas), respectively. The detection rate increased significantly with age, and the detection rate in round one were significantly higher than that in round two (P<0.05). The overall detection rates of advanced neoplasia for the groups with starting age at 50, 45 and 40 years were 61.11‰, 56.14‰ and 52.05‰ in round one, and 49.10‰, 46.75‰ and 45.59‰ in round two, respectively. The rates were significantly higher for the group with starting age at 50 years than that with starting age at 40 years in both round one and round two (P<0.05). The numbers of people needing endoscopy of advanced neoplasia for the groups with starting age at 50, 45 and 40 years were 17, 18, and 20 in round one, and 21, 22 and 22 in round two. Conclusions: The detection rate of advanced neoplasia increased with age. Starting screening at lower age might contribute to decreased detection rate and increased number of people needing endoscopy. However, the difference was limited.

CXCL14 Protects Against Polymicrobial Sepsis by Enhancing Antibacterial Functions of Macrophages

Rapid and effective control of bacterial infection is critical for the treatment of bacterial sepsis. CXCL14 is an important chemokine involved in infection and immunity, which can bind to CXCR4. However, the contribution of CXCL14/CXCR4 chemokine axis to bacterial clearance in sepsis remains unknown. Here the impact of CXCL14/CXCR4 blockade or CXCL14 administration on sepsis was assessed using murine and cell models, as well as human samples. CXCL14 protein levels were elevated in mice after cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis. In vivo, CXCL14 blockade using anti-CXCL14 antibody or CXCL14 knockdown by adeno-associated virus carrying-CXCL14 shRNA significantly increased mortality and bacterial burden, which was paralleled by significantly decreased macrophage influx and M2 macrophage polarization at the site of infection after CLP. Therapeutic administration of CXCL14 improved mortality and bacterial clearance after CLP in a CXCR4-dependent manner, and macrophages, but not neutrophils, were important for the protective effect of CXCL14 in sepsis. In vitro, CXCL14 directly enhanced bacterial phagocytosis and killing of macrophages, and it also increased phagosome formation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in macrophages. Furthermore, inhibiting the activation of PI3K/Akt and NF-κB signaling pathways, but not STAT1, abrogated the enhanced antibacterial effects of CXCL14 on macrophages. Finally, circulating CXCL14 levels were significantly up-regulated in the patients with sepsis. CXCL14 could enhance bacterial phagocytosis and killing in human monocyte-derived macrophages, which was dependent on CXCR4. Therefore, our results indicate a previously undescribed role of CXCL14/CXCR4 axis and suggest CXCL14 as a potential adjunct therapy in bacterial sepsis.

Effects of residual feed intake divergence on growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, and blood biochemical parameters in small-sized meat ducks

Feed efficiency (FE) is a major economic trait of meat duck. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of residual feed intake (RFI) divergence on growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, and blood biochemical parameters in small-sized meat ducks. A total of 500 healthy 21-day-old male ducks were housed in individual cages until slaughter at 63 d of age. The growth performance was determined for all the ducks. The carcass yield, meat quality, and blood biochemical parameters were determined for the selected 30 high-RFI (HRFI) and 30 low-RFI (LRFI) ducks. In terms of growth performance, the RFI, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and average daily feed intake (ADFI) were found to be significantly lower in the LRFI group (P < 0.01), whereas no differences were observed in the BW and body weight gain (P > 0.05). For slaughter performance, no differences were observed in the carcass traits between the LRFI and HRFI groups (P > 0.05). For meat quality, the shear force of breast muscle was significantly lower in the LRFI group (P < 0.05), while the other meat quality traits of breast and thigh muscles demonstrated no differences (P > 0.05). For blood biochemical parameters, the serum concentrations of triglycerides (TG) and glucose (GLU) were significantly lower in the LRFI group (P < 0.05), while the other parameters showed no differences (P > 0.05). The correlation analysis demonstrated a high positive correlation between RFI, FCR, and ADFI (P < 0.01). The RFI demonstrated a negative effect on the breast muscle and lean meat yields, but a positive effect on the shear force of breast muscle (P < 0.05). Further, the RFI demonstrated a positive effect on the TG and GLU levels (P < 0.05). These results indicate that the selection for low RFI could improve the FE of small-sized meat ducks without affecting the production performance. This study provides valuable insight into the biological processes underlying the variations in FE in small-sized meat ducks.

Observation of Spin Splitting Torque in a Collinear Antiferromagnet RuO_{2}

Current-induced spin torques provide efficient data writing approaches for magnetic memories. Recently, the spin splitting torque (SST) was theoretically predicted, which combines advantages of conventional spin transfer torque (STT) and spin-orbit torque (SOT) as well as enables controllable spin polarization. Here we provide the experimental evidence of SST in collinear antiferromagnet RuO_{2} films. The spin current direction is found to be correlated to the crystal orientation of RuO_{2} and the spin polarization direction is dependent on (parallel to) the Néel vector. These features are quite characteristic for the predicted SST. Our finding not only presents a new member for the spin torques besides traditional STT and SOT, but also proposes a promising spin source RuO_{2} for spintronics.

[Progress in pulmonary enteric adenocarcinoma]

Pulmonary enteric adenocarcinoma (PEAC), as a rare histologic subtype of primary lung adenocarcinoma, is defined as an adenocarcinoma in which the enteric component exceeds 50%. It is named after its shared morphological and immunohistochemical features with colorectal cancer. While with such similarity, the differential diagnosis of PEAC and lung metastatic colorectal cancer is a great challenge in the clinic. PEAC may originate from the intestinal metaplasia of respiratory basal cells stimulated by risk factors such as smoking. Current studies have found that KRAS is a relatively high-frequency mutation gene, and other driver gene mutations are rare. In terms of immunohistochemistry, in pulmonary enteric adenocarcinoma, the positive rate was 88.2% (149/169) for CK7, 78.1% (132/169) for CDX2, 48.2% (82/170) for CK20 and 38.8% (66/170) for TTF1. As for clinical features, the average age of onset for pulmonary enteric adenocarcinoma was 62 years, male patients accounted for 56.5% (35/62), smokers accounted for 78.8% (41/52), and 41.4% (24/58) of the primary lesion was located in the upper lobe of the right lung. In terms of treatment, conventional non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) regimens rather than colorectal cancer regimens are now recommended. There is still an urgent need for more basic and clinical research, in-depth exploration of its molecular feature and pathogenesis from the level of omics and other aspects, to help diagnosis and differential diagnosis, and find the optimal chemotherapy regimen, possibly effective targeted therapy and even immunotherapy.

[miR-100-5p is involved in non-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head by inhibiting the migration and osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs]

Objective To investigate the role of miR-100-5p in the pathogenesis of non-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (NONFH). Methods The miRNA expression in patients with NONFH was detected by real-time quantitative PCR, the high expression of miR-100-5p in femoral head tissues of the patients determined. Rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (rBMSCs) were cultured and divided into 5 groups: blank control group, dexamethasone treatment group (treated with dexamethasone for 3 days), miR-NC group (transfected with miR-NC), agomiR-100-5p group (overexpression of miR-100-5p), and antagomiR-100-5p group (transfected with miR-100-5p antagonist). The mRNA expression levels of miR-100-5p, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Runt-associated transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), and collagen type I (Col1) were detected by real-time quantitative PCR. The protein expressions of ALP, RUNX2, Col1, and bone morphogenetic protein receptor 2 (BMPR2) were detected by Western blotting. The effect of miR-100-5p on the migration ability of rBMSCs was evaluated by scratch healing assay. And the effect of miR-100-5p on osteogenic differentiation ability of rBMSCs was investigated by alizarin red staining. Results miR-100-5p was significantly upregulated in the femoral head bone tissue of NONFH patients compared with normal femoral head bone tissue. Compared with those in the normal rBMSCs, the expression of miR-100-5p in rBMSCs treated with 20 μmol/L of dexamethasone was up-regulated. The upregulation of miR-100-5p in rBMSCs reduced the expressions of ALP, RUNX2, Col1, and BMPR2, and inhibited the osteogenic differentiation and migration abilities of rBMSCs. Conclusion The expression of miR-100-5p is elevated in bone tissues of NONFH patients and in rBMSCs treated with 20 μmol/L of dexamethasone. The up-regulated miR-100-5p may be involved in the pathogenesis of NONFH by inhibiting the migration and osteogenic differentiation of rBMSCs.

Exosomal miR-100-5p inhibits osteogenesis of hBMSCs and angiogenesis of HUVECs by suppressing the BMPR2/Smad1/5/9 signalling pathway

Background

Nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (NONFH) is a common, progressive, and refractory orthopaedic disease. Decreased osteogenesis and angiogenesis are considered the main factors in the pathogenesis of NONFH. We aimed to figure out whether exosomes and exosomal miRNA from necrotic bone tissues of patients with NONFH are involved in the pathogenesis of NONFH and reveal the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

RT-PCR and western blotting (WB) were used to detect the expression of osteogenic, adipogenic, and angiogenic markers. ALP staining and Alizarin Red S (ARS) staining were used to evaluate osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs). Oil Red O staining was performed to assess the adipocyte deposition. A tube formation assay was used to study angiogenesis of human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs). H&E staining and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining were used to detect the effect of the NONFH exosomes in vivo. MicroRNA sequencing was conducted to identify potential regulators in the NONFH exosomes. The target relationship between miR-100-5p and BMPR2 was predicted and confirmed by a dual luciferase reporter assay and WB.

Results

The NONFH exosomes reduced the osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs and angiogenesis of HUVECs. In addition, the injection of the NONFH exosomes caused thinning and disruption of bone trabeculae in the femoral heads of rats. MiR-100-5p expression was upregulated in the NONFH exosomes and inhibited the osteogenesis of hBMSCs and angiogenesis of HUVECs by targeting BMPR2 and suppressing the BMPR2/SMAD1/5/9 signalling pathway. Silencing miR-100-5p expression rescued the reduction in osteogenesis and angiogenesis caused by the NONFH exosomes by activating the BMPR2/SMAD1/5/9 signalling pathway.

Conclusion

The NONFH exosomal miR-100-5p can lead to NONFH-like damage by targeting BMPR2 and suppressing the BMPR2/SMAD1/5/9 signalling pathway, which may be involved in the pathophysiological mechanisms of nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (NONFH).

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-021-02438-y.

Alcohol intake and the risk of chronic kidney disease: results from a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis

Many prospective cohort studies have investigated the association between the consumption of alcohol and CKD risk and have revealed inconsistent results. In the present study, we aimed to perform a meta-analysis of these studies to assess this association.We searched the PubMed and Embase databases up to 2020 and reviewed the reference lists of relevant articles to identify appropriate studies. We calculated the pooled relative risks with 95% CIs using random effects models, and then performed subgroup and meta-regression analyses. Dose-response meta-analyses were performed by sex separately. We identified 25 eligible prospective cohort studies, including 514,148 participants and 35,585 incident CKD cases. Compared with the category of minimal alcohol intake, light (RR = 0.90, I2 = 49%), moderate (RR = 0.86, I2 = 40%), and heavy (RR = 0.85, I2 = 51%) alcohol intake were associated with a lower risk of CKD. Subgroup meta-analysis by sex indicated that light (RR = 0.92, I2 = 0%), moderate (RR = 0.83, I2 = 39%) and heavy (RR = 0.76, I2 = 40%), alcohol consumption were inversely associated with CKD risk in male. Dose-response meta-analyses detected a nonlinear inverse association between alcohol consumption and the risk of CKD in all participants and linear inverse association in female participants. This meta-analysis shows that light (<12 g/day), moderate (12-24 g/day), and heavy (>24 g/day) alcohol consumption are protective against chronic kidney disease in adult participants especially in males.

[Aldo-keto reductase family 1 B10 participates in the regulation of hepatoma cell cycle through p27/p-Rb signaling pathway]

Objective: Aldo-keto reductase family 1 member B10 (AKR1B10) pathogenesis, early diagnosis and prognosis are closely related with hepatoma. Therefore, this study explores the effect and mechanism of AKR1B10 on cell cycle in hepatoma cells. Methods: HepG2 cells were infected with lentivirus LV-AKR1B10-shRNA or treated with epalrestat, an AKR1B10 inhibitor. The expression level of AKR1B10 was detected by Western blot assay and real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Decreased AKR1B10 activity was detected by reduced coenzyme II (NADPH) absorbance at 340 nm. The low expression of AKR1B10 and the effect of different concentrations of epalrestat on cell proliferation and cell cycle were detected by CCK-8 method and flow cytometry. The protein expression levels of p-rb, cyclin D1, E1, p27 in HepG2 cells were detected by Western blot. The mean of the two samples was tested using independent sample t-test. Results: AKR1B10 expression level in hepatoma cells was significantly increased compared to normal liver cells, and the relative expression level of AKR1B10 protein in HepG2 cells was 6.71 ± 1.11 (P = 0.012). Epalrestat was significantly inhibited with the enzymatic activity of AKR1B10 in a dose-dependent manner. AKR1B10 gene in HepG2 cells was effectively silenced. HepG2 cells treated with different concentrations of epalrestat (AKR1B10 inhibitor) for 24, 48 and 72 h had inhibited cell proliferation, promoted G0/G1 cell cycle arrest, reduced the expression of p-Rb, cyclin D1, and cyclin E1 and increased the expression of cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor p27 expression. Conclusion: AKR1B10 inhibitory expression and activity can promote G0/G1 cell cycle arrest in HepG2 cells through the p27 / p-Rb pathway.

[Thyroid disruptor p, p'-DDE inhibited the expression of LHX4 and DIS3L protein in Nthy-ori-3-1 cells]

Objective: To observe the changes of LHX4 and DIS3L mRNA and protein expression in Nthy-ori-3-1 cells after the treatment of thyroid disruptor p, p'-DDE. Methods: Nthy-ori-3-1 cells in logarithmic growth phase were treated with 0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 5.0 μg/ml p, p'-DDE solution. The growth state and morphology of the cells were observed by microscope. The mRNA levels of LHX4 and DIS3L were detected by real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR, and the protein expression levels of LHX4 and DIS3L were detected by Western blot. Results: when the concentrations of p, p'-DDE were 0, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 μg/ml, Nthy-ori-3-1 cells grew normally. There were 33 differential genes in 2.0 μg/ml group, among which 13 genes were down regulated and 20 genes were up-regulated. Compared with the control group, the protein expression levels of LHX4 and DIS3L in 1.0 and 2.0 μg/ml groups were significantly decreased (P<0.05) , and the relative expression levels of LHX4 and DIS3L protein mRNA in 1.0 μg/ml group were significantly decreased (P<0.05) . Conclusion: p, p'-DDE can affect the protein expression of LHX4 and dis3l in nthy-ori-3-1 cells.

[Efficacy and safety of generic azacitidine in Chinese patients with higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes: a multicenter, prospective, single-arm study]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics of the generic azacitidine in Chinese patients with higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes(MDS). Methods: Between October 2013 and 2016, 72 patients were eligible for enrollment at 9 sites from China received generic subcutaneous azacitidine 75 mg·m(-2)·d(-1) for 7 days per 28-day cycle, for ≥6 cycles. Pharmacokinetic blood samples were collected on day 1 of a single-dose. Results: For each patient at cycle 6 or at the time of study discontinuation, whichever came first, the overall response rate, which included complete remission (CR)and partial remission(PR), was 6.9%(5/72), the rate of patients who had the best effect with CR or PR during the treatment was 12.5%(9/72). Patients who were dependent on red-blood-cell transfusions and platelet transfusions at baseline became transfusion independent were 46.3%(19/41)and 41.2% (7/17), respectively. The median time of treatment was 6 cycles, and the median OS was 16.1 months (95%CI 10.9-20.6 months). For 36 patients(50%)received treatment at ≥6 cycles, and the median OS was 22.3 months(95%CI 16.1- not evaluative). Most common grade Ⅲ-Ⅳ hematologic treatment-emergent adverse events were neutropenia(55%), leukopenia(47%), and thrombocytopenia(61%). Pharmacokinetic profiles were similar for generic and original azacitidine in Chinese patients. Conclusion: Generic azacitidine treatment was favorable and safe and can be used as a standard treatment for patients with higher-risk MDS.

[Quick community survey on the impact of COVID-19 outbreak for the healthcare of people living with HIV]

Objective: To collect the current status and healthcare needs of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in China during the COVID-19 outbreak to inform quick response from government and communities. Methods: During February 5(th) to 10(th), 2020, a national anonymous survey was conducted using an online questionnaire among PLHIV at least 18 years of age and had started antiretroviral treatment (ART) to collect the information on COVID-19 prevention, HIV-related health services and the needs on psychosocial support. Current status and needs of people living with HIV were analyzed in Hubei and other regions. Results: A total of 1 014 valid questionnaires were collected, with PLHIV respondents cross the country. The survey revealed that 93.79% of the respondents could obtain information regarding the prevention of COVID-19 from their communities or villages. Respondents were concerned with HIV-specific protective measures and personal protective equipment shortage. 32.64% of all respondents were not carrying sufficient antiretroviral medicines (ARVs) to meet the needs under traffic and travel restrictions, and some could face stock-outs in the coming month. In Hubei province where 53 respondents needed ARV refill, 64.15% reported difficulty accessing ARV due to the "blockage" . 28.93% respondents were in need of sociopsychological support, and 85.31% anticipated further improvement of the out-of-town ARV refill process from the government. Conclusion: PLHIV wants to know HIV-specific protective measures against COVID-19 outbreak. PLHIV who returned to their home-towns and affected by the lock-downs reported challenges with refills. We should undertake a more systematic study on impacts of the COVID-19 on PLHIV to develop preparedness capacity for future public health emergency.

Short communication: Menaquinone-4 (vitamin K2) induces proliferation responses in bovine peripheral blood mononuclear cells

The effects of vitamin K (VK) on immune cells in ruminants are yet to be fully investigated. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of VK on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in Holstein dairy cows. A cell proliferation assay was performed to evaluate the effect of menaquinone-4 (MK-4, the biologically active form of VK) on immune response of PBMC. The proliferation of PBMC stimulated by MK-4 was significantly higher than that of nonstimulated controls. The expression of T cell-related genes in PBMC, stimulated with MK-4, was assessed by quantitative PCR. No significant changes were observed in the mRNA expression levels of both CD4 and CD8 as helper T cell and cytotoxic T cell markers, respectively. The present study demonstrated that MK-4 positively influenced cow PBMC proliferation and suggested the possibility of bovine-specific immune cell activation. The present study lays a foundation for understanding the physiological role of VK in cattle.

[Individualized treatment recommendations for lung cancer patients at different stages of treatment during the outbreak of 2019 novel coronavirus disease]

In order to achieve the overall victory over 2019 novel coronavirus disease epidemic, especially to prevent the disease recurrence from rebounding during the resumption of labor, the government has not loosened any control of personnel mobility, which has obviously affected the normal examination and treatment of lung cancer patients under the influence of this epidemic. During the epidemic period, cancer patients with low immunity levels face the double ordeals of disease and epidemic situation. Compared with the general population, they are more likely to be infected with the new coronavirus. Among the infected cancer patients, lung cancer is the most common type. It is necessary to provide more appropriate individualized treatment recommendations for patients with lung cancer based on the epidemic situation of the patient's location and in combination with the patient's own condition. Through active prevention of infection, timely conversion of treatment strategies, online and offline joint control, and positive psychological counseling, we do our best to help patients with lung cancer to survive this difficult period.

Research Note: Effects of the rearing method and stocking density on carcass traits and proximate composition of meat in small-sized meat ducks

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different rearing methods and stocking densities on carcass yield and proximate composition of meat in small-sized meat ducks. A total of 555 one-day-old birds were randomly allocated to six treatment groups (three replicates per treatment, sex ratio 1/1) with a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement of two rearing methods (reared in cage or net) and three stocking densities (5 [low], 7 [medium], or 9 [high] birds/m²) until day 70. Five male and five female birds from each replicate were randomly selected and processed to determine the carcass yield. Proximate composition was determined by proximate analysis using the breast and thigh muscles. There was no interaction effect between the rearing method and stocking density on carcass yield. The rearing method affected the thigh muscle rate, which was higher in the cage groups (P < 0.05). The final BW and abdominal fat rate decreased with increasing density (P < 0.05), whereas the thigh muscle rate increased (P < 0.05). There were significant interaction effects (P < 0.05) between the rearing method and stocking density on the content of protein, fat, and collagen. The content of fat and moisture was greater and lower, respectively, in the cage groups (P < 0.05). The content of moisture, fat, and collagen with a medium density was higher (P < 0.05). In addition, the content of protein and fat was lower in the ducks fed in nets at low and high densities (P < 0.05), respectively; the collagen content of breast and thigh muscle was lower in the ducks fed in cages and nets, respectively, at a low density (P < 0.05). Our findings provide valuable insights into the single and interactive effects of the rearing method and stocking density on duck slaughter performance and proximate composition of meat. The results indicate that a rearing system with a cage pattern and a medium density is better than other arrangements for small-sized meat ducks.

Precise correlative method of Cryo-SXT and Cryo-FM for organelle identification

Cryogenic soft X-ray tomography (Cryo-SXT) is ideally suitable to image the 3D sub-cellular architecture and organization of cells with high resolution in the near-native preservation state. Cryogenic fluorescence microscopy (Cryo-FM) can determine the location of a molecule of interest that has been labeled with a fluorescent tag, thus revealing the function of the cells. To understand the relations between the sub-cellular architecture and the function of cells, correlative Cryo-SXT and Cryo-FM was applied. This method required the matching of images of different modalities, and the accuracy of the matching is important. Here, a precise correlative method of Cryo-SXT and Cryo-FM is introduced. The capability of matching images of different modalities with high resolution was verified by simulations and practical experiments, and the method was used to identify vacuoles and mitochondria.

Parent-of-origin has no detectable effect on survival days of Marek's disease virus infected White Leghorns

Marek's Disease (MD) is a neoplastic disease of chickens and remains as a chronic infectious disease that threatens the poultry industry. Improving genetic resistance to MD in poultry is an important long-term goal, which would significantly augment the current control measures against MD and eventually reduce the annual economic loss. In this study, survival patterns of F2 birds from 2 reciprocal crosses were compared to examine possible difference in survival between the reciprocal crosses in response to MD virus (MDV) challenge. A total of 246 and 224 F2 chicks derived from reciprocal crosses of lines 63 × 72 and lines 72 × 63, respectively, were sampled from an MDV challenge trial and survival days were recorded from the MDV-inoculation date to the end of experiment. Statistical analyses, including Principal Component Analysis (PCA) followed by a cox-regression model, showed there was no significant difference in survival days between reciprocal crosses (P > 0.05). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first MD survival study on reciprocal crosses of 2 genetically diversified lines of chickens differing in MD resistance. This report documented the experimental evidence that the genetic lineage of grandparental (maternal or paternal) effect on survival days was minimal, if present at all.

Gene expression profiling of the bone trabecula in patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head by RNA sequencing

Early diagnosis and treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is challenging. Bone trabecula play a vital role in the severity and progression of ONFH. In the present study, the investigators used gene expression profiling of bone trabecula to investigate gene alterations in ONFH patients. Osteonecrotic bone trabecula (ONBT) such as necrosis, fibrosis, and lacuna were confirmed by histological examination in the patients. The adjacent 'normal' bone trabecula (ANBT) did not show any pathological changes. Gene sequencing data revealed that although ANBT showed no significant histological changes, alteration of mRNA profiling in ANBT was observed, similar to that in ONBT. Our results indicated that the alteration of mRNA profiling in ANBT may cause normal bone tissue to develop into necrotic bone. RNA-seq data indicated that 2,297 differentially abundant mRNAs were found in the ONBT group (1,032 upregulated and 1,265 downregulated) and 1,523 differentially abundant mRNAs in the ANBT group (744 upregulated and 799 downregulated) compared with the healthy control group. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis suggested that fatty acid metabolism and degradation were the main zones enriched with differentially expressed genes (DEG). Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis indicated that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPAR-γ) pathway was the most significantly regulated pathway. Lipocalin-2 (LCN2), an osteoblast-enriched secreted protein, was significantly decreased in ONBT suggesting that downregulation of LCN2 might affect lipid metabolism and lead to hyperlipidemia, and thus promote pathogenesis of ONFH.