[Expression of neutrophil extracellular traps and phagocytic functions among patients with hepatic alveolar echinococcosis]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expression of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and phagocytic function in the peripheral blood of patients with hepatic alveolar echinococcosis (HAE), and to examine their correlations with clinical inflamma tory indicators and liver functions.

METHODS

A total of 50 patients with HAE admitted to Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University from August 2022 to June 2023 were enrolled, while 50 age- and gender-matched healthy individuals from the Centre for Healthy Examinations of the hospital during the same period served as controls. The levels of NETs markers neutrophil myeloperoxidase (MPO) and neutrophil elastase (NE) were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Peripheral blood neutrophils were isolated using density gradient centrifugation, stimulated in vitro using phorbol 12-myristate 13 acetate (PMA), and the levels of MPO and citrullination histone H3 (CitH3) released by neutrophils were quantified using flow cytometry. The phagocytic functions of neutrophils were examined using flow cytometry. In addition, the correlations of MPO and NE levels with clinical inflammatory indicators and liver biochemical indicators were examined using Spearman correlation analysis among HAE patients.

RESULTS

The peripheral blood plasma MPO［(417.15 ± 76.08) ng/mL vs. (255.70 ± 80.84) ng/mL; t = 10.28, P < 0.05］, NE［(23.16 ± 6.75) ng/mL vs. (11.92 ± 3.17) ng/mL; t = 10.65, P < 0.05］and CitH3 levels［(33.93 ± 18.93) ng/mL vs. (19.52 ± 13.89) ng/mL; t = 4.34, P < 0.05］were all significantly higher among HAE patients than among healthy controls, and a lower phagocytosis rate of neutrophils was detected among HAE patients than among healthy controls［(70.85 ± 7.32)% vs. (94.04 ± 3.90)%; t = 20.18, P < 0.05］, and the ability to produce NETs by neutrophils was higher among HAE patients than among healthy controls following in vitro PMA stimulation. Pearson correlation analysis showed that the phagocytosis rate of neutrophils correlated negatively with platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), interleukin-6 (IL-6) level and C-reactive protein (CRP) level (rs = -0.515 to -0.392, all P values < 0.05), and the MPO and NE levels positively correlated with inflammatory markers NLR, PLR, CRP and IL-6 (rs = 0.333 to 0.445, all P values < 0.05) and clinical liver biochemical indicators aspartic transaminase, alanine aminotransferase, direct bilirubin and total bilirubin among HAE patients (rs = 0.290 to 0.628, all P values < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Excessive formation of NETs is found among HAE patients, which affects the phagocytic ability of neutrophils and results in elevated levels of inflammatory indicators. NETs markers may be promising novel biomarkers for early diagnosis, monitoring, and severity assessment of liver disease.

[Traditional Chinese medicine for treatment of echinococcosis: a review]

Echinococcosis is a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by infection with Echinococcus species. As the drug of first choice for treatment of echinococcosis, albendazole suffers from problems of large doses and remarkable adverse reactions in clinical therapy. Development of novel drugs against echinococcosis is of urgent need. Recently, great advances have been achieved in the research on traditional Chinese medicine for treatment of echinococcosis. This review summarizes the progress of researches on traditional Chinese medicine for treatment of echinococcosis, aiming to provide insights into development of anti-echinococcosis drugs.

[Analysis of enterovirus infection type among acute respiratory tract infection cases in Luohe City, Henan Province from 2017 to 2021]

Objective: To understand the infection status of Enterovirus (EV) in cases of acute respiratory infections (ARIs) in Luohe City, Henan Province from 2017 to 2021, and analyze the prevalence and type composition of EV in ARIs. Methods: From October 2017 to May 2021, pharyngeal swab samples were collected from 1 828 patients with ARIs in Luohe Central Hospital and the clinical epidemiological data of these cases were also collected. EV-positive samples were identified by Quantitative Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR). The 5'-untranslated region (5'UTR) was amplified by Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR). The results of 5'UTR region were initially typed by Enterovirus Genotyping Tool Version 1.0. Based on the typing results, the full-length of VP1 region was amplified by RT-PCR. The EV typing was identified again by VP1 region. Results: Among 1 828 cases of ARIs, 56.7% (1 036) were males. The median (Q₁, Q₃) age was about 3 (1, 5) years. Patients under 5 years old accounted for 71.6% (1 309 cases). Among all cases, a total of 71 EV-positive samples were identified by qPCR, with a detection rate of 3.88% (71/1 828). The EV detection rates for men and women were 3.28% (34/1 036) and 4.67% (37/792), without statistically significant differences (χ²=2.32, P=0.14). The EV detection rates for 2 to <6 years, 6 months to <2 years, 6 to <10 years, and <6 months were 6.29% (48/763), 3.00% (18/600), 2.52% (4/159), and 1.67% (1/60) (χ²=27.91, P<0.001). The EV detection rate was 0.92% (3/326) in autumn and winter of 2017. The EV detection rates were 1.18% (6/508), 2.47% (12/485) and 8.31% (34/409) in each year from 2018 to 2020, with an increasing trend year by year(χ²_trend=29.76, P<0.001). The main prevalent seasons were summer and autumn. The detection rate in spring of 2021 was 4.00% (4/100). A total of 12 types were identified and classified as CVA2, CVA4, CVA5, CVA6, CVA10, CVB3, CVB5, E5, E11, E30, PV-1, and EV-D68. The types of CVA2, CVA10, CVA6, and CVB3 were the dominant phenotypes. In 59 sample of EV typing, the main clinical manifestation was upper respiratory tract infection (36/59, 61.01%). The dominant types detected in upper respiratory tract infections were CVA10 (10/36, 27.78%), CVA6 (9/36, 25.00%) and CVB3 (8/36, 22.22%). The dominant type detected in lower respiratory tract infections was CVA2 (7/19, 36.84%). Conclusion: In Luohe City, Henan Province from 2017 to 2021, EV infection in ARIs cases has clear seasonal and age-specific patterns, and the dominant types of upper and lower respiratory tract infections are different.

[Role of type 2 innate lymphoid cells in helminth infections: a review]

Helminth infections may trigger host innate and adaptive immune responses. Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2) are an important factor involved in type 2 immune responses, and produce a large number of T helper 2 cell (Th2) cytokines following stimulation by interleukin (IL)-25, IL-33 and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), which play a critical role in parasite clearance and tissue repair. Following helminth infections, autocrine factors, mast cells, enteric nervous system and Th2 cells have been recently found to be involved in regulation of ILC2. Unraveling the role of ILC2 in immune response against helminth infections is of great value for basic research and drug development. This review summarizes the research progress on ILC2 and its role in helminth infections.

[Predictive value of serum HBV RNA for therapeutic effect of entecavir in patients with chronic hepatitis B]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the value of HBV RNA for predicting the therapeutic effect of long-term entecavir (ETV) antiviral therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB).

METHODS

Serum samples were collected from 59 CHB patients treated with ETV for 96 or 108 months. HBV RNA levels, HBV DNA levels, and serological marker (HBeAg) levels were measured at baseline and 3, 6, 9, 12, 36, 72, and 96 (or 108) months during the therapy.

RESULTS

Although HBV RNA level decreased after 12 and 36 months of ETV antiviral therapy, no significance changes occurred in HBV RNA negative conversion rate (P>0.05). After 72 months of treatment or longer, 33 patients had HBV RNA levels lower than 100 copies/mL, and among them 29 patients had HBV RNA levels lower than the detection limit, and HBV RNA negative conversion rate was statistically significant (P < 0.05). A lower HBV RNA level was associated with a higher HBeAg negative conversion rate (P < 0.05). Age and HBV RNA level were positively correlated with HBeAg negative conversion rate (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Prolonged ETV antiviral therapy results in better clearance of HBV RNA and a higher negative conversion rate in CHB patients. The length of antiviral therapy and age are positively correlated with the negative conversion rate of HBV RNA, and earlier administration of the antiviral treatment achieves better therapeutic effect. Serum HBV RNA level can be used as an indicator for predicting conversion to negative HBeAg in CHB patients receiving ETV therapy.

[Progress in the study of antiviral activity of cepharanthine against SARS-CoV-2]

As a member of the dibenzyl isoquinoline alkaloid family, cepharathine is an alkaloid from the traditional Chinese medicine cepharathine, which is mainly used for treatment of leukopenia and other diseases. Recent studies of the inhibitory effect of cepharathine against SARS-CoV-2 have attracted widespread attention and aroused heated discussion. As the original discoverer of the anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of cepharanthine, here we briefly summarize the discovery of cepharanthine and review important progress in relevant studies concerning the discovery and validation of anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of cepharathine, its antiviral mechanisms and clinical trials of its applications in COVID-19 therapy.

Efficacy and Safety of Direct-Acting Antivirals in Kidney Transplantation From HCV-Viremic Donors to Negative Recipients: A Meta-Analysis

Background:

With the development of direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs), the research on kidney transplantation from Hepatitis C virus (HCV)-viremic donors to HCV-negative recipients has grown. The objective of this comprehensive analysis was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of DAAs in kidney transplantation from HCV-viremic donors to negative recipients.

Methods

Multiple databases were searched for a systematic and comprehensive up to March 2022. The primary outcomes included the percentage of sustained virological response at week 12 after the end of treatment (SVR12), adverse events (AEs; any grade), and severe adverse events (SAEs) as the endpoints. Publication bias was examined by using the funnel plots and Egger's test.

Results

In total, 16 studies with 454 subjects were included in the study and the pooled estimate of SVR12, AEs, and SAEs rates were 100.0% (95% CI: 99.2-100.0), 1.9%(95%CI: 0.0-4.9), and 0.0% (95%CI: 0.0-1.5). Subgroup analysis showed that pooled SVR12 rates were 100.0% (95%CI: 99.6-100.0) for genotype (GT)1a and 96.3% (95%CI: 83.3-100.0) for GT2; 100.0% (95%CI: 98.9-100.0) for DAAs treatments; and 100.0% (95%CI: 98.2-100.0) for prophylaxis subgroup. Egger's tests showed that no publication bias was found in this study.

Conclusion

This comprehensive analysis showed the high efficacy and safety of DAAs in kidney transplantation from HCV-viremic donors to HCV-negative recipients.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=246541.

A compact x-ray diffraction system for dynamic compression experiments on pulsed-power generators

Pulsed-power generators can produce well-controlled continuous ramp compression of condensed matter for high-pressure equation-of-state studies using the magnetic loading technique. X-ray diffraction (XRD) data from dynamically compressed samples provide direct measurements of the elastic compression of the crystal lattice, onset of plastic flow, strength-strain rate dependence, structural phase transitions, and density of crystal defects, such as dislocations. Here, we present a cost-effective, compact, pulsed x-ray source for XRD measurements on pulsed-power-driven ramp-loaded samples. This combination of magnetically driven ramp compression of materials with a single, short-pulse XRD diagnostic will be a powerful capability for the dynamic materials' community to investigate in situ dynamic phase transitions critical to equation of states. We present results using this new diagnostic to evaluate lattice compression in Zr and Al and to capture signatures of phase transitions in CdS.

[Analysis on incidence trend of liver cancer in China, 2005-2016]

Objective: To understand the incidence trend of liver cancer in China from 2005 to 2016, and explore the correlation between the incidence trend of liver cancer and the incidence trend of hepatitis B. Methods: The incidence data of liver cancer in China from 2005 to 2016 were collected from the Annual Report of Cancer Registry in China. The incidence data of hepatitis B were collected from China Public Health Science Data Center. World standardized incidence rate (WSR) was calculated according to the World Segi's population. Joinpoint regression model was used to analyze the trend of WSR of liver cancer [measured by average annual percentage change (AAPC)]. The age-period-cohort model was fitted to analyze the age, period and cohort effects in people aged 20- years and above. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to explore the correlation between the incidence of liver cancer and the incidence of hepatitis B. Results: The crude incidence of liver cancer in China showed a trend of first increase before 2009 and then relatively stable. The world standardized morbidity rate of liver cancer in China decreased from 19.11 per 100 000 in 2005 to 17.74 per 100 000 in 2016 (AAPC=-0.5%, 95%CI: -1.3%-0.3%, P=0.240). The incidence of liver cancer in male decreased significantly (AAPC=-1.0%, 95%CI: -1.5%--0.5%, P=0.001). The incidence of liver cancer in women increased from 2005 to 2010 [annual percentage change (APC)=1.7%, 95%CI: -0.1%-3.4%, P=0.059] but showed a significant decrease trend from 2010 to 2016 (APC=-1.6%, 95%CI: -2.3%--1.0%, P=0.001). From 2005 to 2016, the incidence of liver cancer showed a decreasing trend in urban areas (AAPC=-0.3%, 95%CI: -0.8%-0.3%, P=0.316) and rural areas (AAPC=-3.9%, 95%CI: -4.4%--3.3%, P<0.001). Risk for liver cancer increased with age, while the period effect showed a trend of first increase then decrease and cohort effect showed a decrease trend. The morbidity rates of both hepatitis B and liver cancer showed decrease trends from 2009 to 2016, and there was a significant correlation (r=0.71, 95%CI: 0.01-0.94, P=0.048). Conclusions: From 2005 to 2016, the morbidity rate of liver cancer in China showed a decrease trend, and there were significant gender and urban-rural area specific differences. Age effect had a great impact on the risk for liver cancer. With the progress of population aging in China, liver cancer is still a public health problem, to which close attention needs to be paid.

A combined association of serum uric acid, alanine aminotransferase and waist circumference with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a community-based study

Background

Increasing evidence has supported that serum uric acid (SUA), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and waist circumference (WC) are associated with the occurrence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, the combined role of these factors in early screening of NAFLD has not been investigated. We aimed to de lineate this role in a community-based population.

Methods

Binary logistic regression was used to explore the correlations of SUA, ALT and WC with NAFLD risk. The goodness of fit and discriminative ability of the model were evaluated by the Hosmer-Lemeshow test and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC), respectively.

Results

Logistic regression analysis indicated that elevated SUA (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 2.44, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.76-3.38]), ALT (adjusted OR = 4.98, 95% CI [3.41-7.27]) and WC (adjusted OR = 3.22, 95% CI [2.01-5.16]) were facilitating factors for incident NAFLD after fully adjusted for related confounders. In addition, the risk of NAFLD followed linear trend s with increasing levels of these three indicators (all P _trend < 0.001). The risk assessment model consisting of SUA, ALT, WC and demographics showed useful discrimination by AUROC being 0.825 (95% CI [0.811-0.838]) and good performance of calibration (P = 0.561).

Conclusions

SUA, ALT and WC were all associated with NAFLD, independent of known risk factors. The simple model composed of these indicators showed good performance in the Chinese population, which may be applicable for appraisal of NAFLD risk in primary healthcare.

[Effects of N-trimethyl chitosan-recombinant tissue factor pathway inhibitor complex on avulsion flap with roll compaction in rat]

Objective: To investigate the effect of N-trimethyl chitosan-recombinant tissue factor pathway inhibitor (rTFPI) complex on avulsion flap with roll compaction in rat. Methods: The experimental methods were adopted. The N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI complex solution was prepared by ion cross-linking method. The morphology of the complex was observed by scanning electron microscope, and its diameter was measured. The encapsulation rate of rTFPI in the complex and drug loading rate of the complex was determined and calculated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method (n=3). The concentration of rTFPI in the solution at 0, 10, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, 240 minutes of storage was measured by ELISA method to observe the release of rTFPI, and its half-life was calculated (n=3). Twenty-four 6-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into phosphate buffered saline (PBS) group, N-trimethyl chitosan alone group, rTFPI alone group, and N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group according to the random number table, with 6 rats in each group. The avulsion flaps with roll compaction were prepared on the backs of rats with pedicles located on the line of the bilateral iliac spine and lifted from the surface of the muscle membrane. One injection of corresponding reagents was carried out immediately after in-situ suture and on post operation day (POD) 1, 2, and 3. General changes of the flap were observed on POD 1, 3, and 7. On POD 7, the survival area of the flap was measured and the survival rate of the flap was calculated; the flaps were divided into pedicle, proximal, middle, and distal segments, and the blood perfusion in the proximal, middle, and distal segment tissue of the flap was detected by the laser speckle blood flow imager; tissue samples in the middle of the flap were cut and stained with hematoxylin and eosin to observe the changes in tissue structure and the infiltration of inflammatory cells, and the numbers of embolized blood vessels and new blood vessels per 100 times visual field were counted. Data were statistically analyzed with one-way analysis of variance and least significant difference test. Results: The N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI complex had an irregular spherical structure with a diameter of 150-200 nm. The encapsulation rate of rTFPI in the complex and drug loading rate of the complex were (88.7±2.1)% and (2.83±0.09)%, respectively. The concentration of rTFPI in the solution of the N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI complex gradually increased with prolonged storage time, and the release was basically stable at 90 min, with half-life of (651±36) min. On POD 1, the distal parts of flaps of rats in N-trimethyl chitosan alone group darkened significantly. On POD 3, scabs and necrosis were relatively mild on the distal segment of the flaps of rats in rTFPI alone group and N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group as compared with those of the other two groups. On POD 7, the necrosis boundaries of the flaps of rats in each group were clear. On POD 7, the flap survival rates of rats in rTFPI alone group and N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group were (63±7)% and (73±5)%, respectively, which were significantly higher than (41±3)% in PBS group and (52±7)% in N-trimethyl chitosan alone group. Moreover, the flap survival rate of rats in N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group was significantly higher than that in rTFPI alone group (P<0.05). On POD 7, the flaps of rats in each group had blood perfusion; the blood perfusion values in the proximal segment tissue of the rat flaps in N-trimethyl chitosan alone group and the blood perfusion values in the proximal, middle, and distal segment tissue of the rat flaps in rTFPI alone group and N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group were significantly higher than those in PBS group (P<0.05 or P<0.01); the blood perfusion values in the distal segment tissue of the rat flaps in rTFPI alone group and the blood perfusion values in the middle and distal segment tissue of the rat flaps in N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group were significantly higher than those in N-trimethyl chitosan alone group (P<0.05 or P<0.01); the blood perfusion value in the middle segment tissue of the rat flaps in N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group was significantly higher than that in rTFPI alone group (P<0.01). On POD 7, inflammatory cells infiltrated more and cell edema was obvious in the middle segment tissue of the rat flaps in PBS group and N-trimethyl chitosan alone group. Compared with those of the previous two groups, the inflammation degrees in the middle segment tissue of the rat flaps in rTFPI alone group and N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group were significantly milder, the number of embolized blood vessels was significantly decreased (P<0.05 or P<0.01), and the number of new blood vessels was significantly increased (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Compared with that of rTFPI alone group, the number of new blood vessels in the middle segment tissue of the rat flaps in N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group increased significantly (P<0.05). Conclusions: The effect of sustained release of rTFPI can be achieved by loading rTFPI with N-trimethyl chitosan. Compared with rTFPI alone, the N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI complex can further improve the blood perfusion of the avulsion flaps with roll compaction in rat and improve the survival rate of the flap.

[Urine proteomics signatures associated with alcohol drinking among residents attending the National Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Early Detection Program in Linqu, Shandong province]

The liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry was used to detect the urinary proteomics of 223 residents aged 40-69 years old who participated in the National Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Early Detection Program in Linqu County, Shandong Province from November 22 to December 7, 2018, and analyze the alcohol consumption related proteomic profiles and individual urinary protein. There were significant differences in urinary protein profiles between alcohol consumption group and non-alcohol consumption group. The expression of 26 urinary proteins was up-regulated and 20 urinary proteins were down-regulated in alcohol consumption group (P<0.05). The differentially expressed proteins had enzyme inhibitor activity and phospholipid binding function, and mainly enriched in pathways involving proximal tubule bicarbonate regeneration, complement and coagulation cascade, and cholesterol metabolism. The protein expressions of complement factor I (CFI), angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and protein C inhibitor (SERPINA5) were positively correlated with daily alcohol consumption.

Association of Elongation Factor Tu GTP-binding Domain-containing 2 Gene (EFTUD2) Polymorphism with the Risk of Hepatitis B Virus Infection

BACKGROUND

The elongation factor Tu GTP-binding domain-containing 2 gene (EFTUD2) participates in antiviral immune responses. However, the association between genetic polymorphisms of EFTUD2 and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection susceptibility has not been well-studied. We analyzed the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of EFTUD2 and HBV infection susceptibility and clarified the potential function.

METHODS

In total, 448 control subjects and 379 patients with chronic HBV infection from Zhangjiagang First People's Hospital (Jiangsu, China) were enrolled. Sequenom iPLEX assay was used to detect genotypes of four SNPs (rs1071682, rs2277617, rs2289674, and rs3809756). Dual-luciferase reporter vectors with wild-type A and mutant-type C alleles of EFTUD2 rs3809756 were transfected into HepG2 cells to explore effects on transcription activity.

RESULTS

Only rs3809756 was significantly associated with HBV infection susceptibility (P < .05). The risk of HBV infection was higher in individuals carrying the rs3809756-CC genotype than in those carrying the rs3809756-AA genotype (odds ratio [OR] = 1.945, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.129-3.351, P = .017). Subgroup analysis based on the dominant model revealed that rs3809756-AC and rs3809756-CC carriers had a significantly higher risk of HBV infection than rs3809756-AA carriers among patients who were male (OR = 1.732, 95% CI = 1.218-2.464, P = .002), were aged ≥47 years (OR = 1.502, 95% CI = 1.050-2.148, P = .026), or without liver cirrhosis (OR = 1.407, 95% CI = 1.077-1.838, P = .012). In the dual-luciferase reporter assay, the relative luciferase activity of rs3809756-C was significantly lower than that of rs3809756-A (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

EFTUD2 rs3809756A>C was associated with HBV infection susceptibility and might be involved in the downregulation of promoter activity.

[Transepidermal water loss of scar skin in three types of scar patients and its correlation with scar severity]

Objective: To study the transepidermal water loss (TEWL) of scar skin in patients with superficial scars, hypertrophic scars, and atrophic scars, and to explore the correlation between TEWL and scar severity. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted. From February 2017 to February 2019, 120 scar patients who met the inclusion criteria were admitted to the General Hospital of Jilin Chemical Industry Group, including 78 males and 42 females, aged (35±14) years. According to the diagnosis on admission, there were 40 cases of superficial scar patients, 40 cases of hypertrophic scar patients, and 40 cases of atrophic scar patients. On admission, the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) was used to score the scar of each patient; the TEWL of scar skin and normal skin 1 cm from the edge of scar or the same site of the healthy side (hereinafter referred to as normal skin) of each patient was measured by water loss tester, and the difference value of TEWL between scar skin and normal skin (hereinafter referred to as the TEWL difference) was calculated. Data were statistically analyzed with chi-square test, Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test, paired sample t test, one-way analysis of variance, and Dunnett-t test for comparison, and the correlation between the difference value of TEWL and scar VSS score was analyzed with univariate linear regression analysis. Results: On admission, the scar VSS score of superficial scar patients was significantly lower than that of hypertrophic scar or atrophic scar patients (t=4.403, 4.768, P<0.01), and the scar VSS score of atrophic scar patients was significantly lower than that of hypertrophic scar patients (t=4.185, P<0.01). On admission, the TEWL of scar skin of superficial scar, hypertrophic scar, and atrophic scar patients were (18±4), (20±4), and (20±5) g·m^-2·h^-1 respectively, significantly higher than (12±3), (12±3), and (14±4) g·m^-2·h^-1 of normal skin (t=6.889, 10.221, 5.870, P<0.01). The difference values of TEWL of superficial scar, hypertrophic scar, and atrophic scar patients were (5.9±1.7), (8.1±1.7), and (6.4±2.1) g·m^-2·h^-1 respectively. In comparison among different types of scar patients, only the TEWL difference of hypertrophic scar patients was significantly higher than that of superficial scar patients (t=6.975, P<0.05). The TEWL difference and the scar VSS score in patients with superficial scars, hypertrophic scars, and atrophic scars were significantly positively correlated (r=0.805, 0.872, 0.826, P<0.01). Conclusions: The TEWL of scar skin in patients with superficial scars, hypertrophic scars, and atrophic scars is increased compared with normal skin, and the degree of increase was positively correlated with the severity of scars.

[PI3K/Akt signaling pathway mediates the protective effect of endomorphin-1 postconditioning against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in mediating the protective effect of endomorphin-1 against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury.

OBJECTIVE

Fifty SD male rats were randomly divided into sham operation group, myocardial IR group, endomorphin-1 post-treatment group (EM50 group), endomorphin-1+wortmannin (a PI3K/Akt signaling pathway inhibitor) treatment group (EM50+Wort group), and wortmannin treatment group (Wort group). Rat models of myocardial IR injury were established by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery for 30 min followed by reperfusion for 120 min. The heart rate and mean arterial pressure were monitored during the experiment. Plasma levels of LDH, CK-MB, cTnI, IL-6, TNF-α, SOD and MDA were measured after reperfusion. The mRNA expression of Bax and Bcl-2 was detected using RT-PCR, and the expression of apoptosis-related protein cleaved caspase-3, phosphorylated Akt protein and total Akt protein in myocardial tissue was detected using Western blotting.

OBJECTIVE

Myocardial IR injury significantly decreased heart rate and blood pressure of the rats in comparison with the sham operation (P < 0.05). Compared with those in the IR group, the rats in EM50 group showed significantly increased heart rate and blood pressure (P < 0.05) with decreased plasma LDH, CK-MB, cTnI, IL-6, TNF-α and MDA levels (P < 0.05), increased SOD activity (P < 0.05), increased expression of p-Akt protein and Bcl-2 mRNA (P < 0.05), and decreased expression of Bax mRNA and cleaved caspase-3 protein (P < 0.05). In EM50+Wort group, the heart rate and blood pressure were significantly lowered (P < 0.05), plasma LDH, CK-MB, cTnI, IL-6, TNF-α and MDA levels increased (P < 0.05), SOD activity decreased (P < 0.05), the expression of p-Akt protein and Bcl-2 mRNA was reduced (P < 0.05), and the expression of Bax mRNA and cleaved caspase-3 protein increased (P < 0.05) as compared with those in EM50 group.

OBJECTIVE

EM-1 postconditioning can regulate cardiac myocyte apoptosis and reduce myocardial IR injury in rats. The PI3K/Akt signaling pathway may play a role in mediating the myocardial protective effects of EM-1 postconditioning.

Genetic Variants in KIR/HLA-C Genes Are Associated With the Susceptibility to HCV Infection in a High-Risk Chinese Population

Background

KIR/HLA-C signaling pathway influences the innate immune response which is the first defense to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The aim of this study was to determine the association between the genetic polymorphisms of KIR/HLA-C genes and the outcomes of HCV infection in a high-risk Chinese population.

Methods

In this case-control study, four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of KIR/HLA-C genes (KIR2DS4/KIR2DS1/KIR2DL1 rs35440472, HLA-C rs2308557, HLA-C rs1130838, and HLA-C rs2524094) were genotyped by TaqMan assay among drug users and hemodialysis (HD) patients including 1,378 uninfected control cases, 307 subjects with spontaneous viral clearance, and 217 patients with persistent HCV infection. Bioinformatics analysis was used to functionally annotate the SNPs.

Results

After logistic regression analysis, the rs35440472-A and rs1130838-A alleles were found to be associated with a significantly elevated risk of HCV infection (OR = 1.562, 95% CI: 1.229–1.987, P < 0.001; OR = 2.134, 95% CI: 1.180–3.858, P = 0.012, respectively), which remained significant after Bonferroni correction (0.05/4). The combined effect of their risk alleles and risk genotypes (rs35440472-AA and rs1130838-AA) were linked to the increased risk of HCV infection in a locus-dosage manner (all P_trend < 0.001). Based on the SNPinfo web server, rs35440472 was predicted to be a transcription factor binding site (TFBS) while rs1130838 was predicted to have a splicing (ESE or ESS) function.

Conclusion

KIR2DS4/KIR2DS1/KIR2DL1 rs35440472-A and HLA-C rs1130838-A variants are associated with increased susceptibility to HCV infection in a high-risk Chinese population.

POS0651 CLINICAL AND FUNCTIONAL RESPONSE TO TOFACITINIB IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS: PROBABILITY PLOT ANALYSIS OF RESULTS FROM A 48-WEEK PHASE 3b/4 METHOTREXATE WITHDRAWAL STUDY

Background:

The Phase 3b/4 study ORAL Shift (NCT02831855) demonstrated sustained efficacy/safety of tofacitinib modified-release 11 mg QD following MTX withdrawal, that was non-inferior to continued tofacitinib + MTX use, in patients (pts) with moderate to severe RA who achieved LDA with tofacitinib + MTX at Week (W)24.1

Objectives:

To assess differences and similarities in clinical/functional responses in pts receiving tofacitinib ± MTX in ORAL Shift.

Methods:

In ORAL Shift, pts received open-label tofacitinib + MTX to W24; at W24, pts who achieved CDAI LDA were randomised to receive tofacitinib + MTX or tofacitinib + placebo (PBO) from W24–48. In this post hoc analysis, clinical efficacy endpoints were ACR-N (minimum % change from baseline [BL; Δ] at W48 achieved by each pt in 3 efficacy measures), ΔDAS28-4(ESR), and DAS28-4(ESR) remission/LDA (scores ≤3.2) and moderate/high disease activity (scores >3.2). Functional efficacy endpoints were ΔHAQ-DI and HAQ-DI clinically relevant functional progression (CRFP) status at W48, defined as failure to achieve improvement in HAQ-DI ≥ minimum clinically important difference (MCID; ≥0.22 decrease from BL in HAQ-DI). Thus, CRFP was defined as <0.22 decrease, no change or increase from BL in HAQ-DI at W48. All efficacy endpoints were summarised descriptively. Cumulative probability plots of ACR-N and ΔHAQ-DI were produced. Median of mean CRP values from BL–W24 and >W24–48 were assessed by response subgroups.

Results:

266 pts receiving tofacitinib + MTX and 264 pts receiving tofacitinib + PBO in W24–48 were included. At W48: mean ACR-N was numerically greater with tofacitinib + MTX vs tofacitinib + PBO (60.8 vs 53.1); mean decrease in HAQ-DI was generally similar between groups (-0.71 vs -0.67); mean decrease in DAS28-4(ESR) was numerically greater with tofacitinib + MTX vs tofacitinib + PBO (-2.95 vs -2.68). The differences/similarities between groups in ACR-N and ΔHAQ-DI were also seen in cumulative probability plots (Figure 1). CRFP rates were numerically lower with tofacitinib + MTX (18.7%) vs tofacitinib + PBO (23.5%), and in pts with remission/LDA (tofacitinib + MTX, 12.1%; tofacitinib + PBO, 16.8%) vs moderate/high disease activity (tofacitinib + MTX, 26.2%; tofacitinib + PBO, 30.8%). Median of mean CRP over time was generally numerically lower in pts with CRFP vs non-CRFP and DAS28-4(ESR)-defined remission/LDA vs moderate/high disease activity; and in those receiving tofacitinib + PBO vs tofacitinib + MTX, irrespective of CRFP or DAS28-4(ESR) disease status (Table 1).

Table 1.

Median of mean CRPa up to W48 by response subgroups

Tofacitinib 11 mg QD + MTXTofacitinib 11 mg QD + PBOMean CRP,amedian (IQR) [n]>BL–W24>W24–48>BL–W24>W24–48HAQ-DI CRFP2.84 (1.15–7.30)2.30 (0.82–4.75)1.45 (0.77–4.42)2.28 (0.53–7.28)[45][46][56][56]HAQ-DI non-CRFP2.81 (1.09–6.19)2.91 (1.19–5.84)2.26 (0.98–4.63)2.47 (1.13–5.53)[195][195][176][178]DAS28-4(ESR) remission/LDA2.48 (1.05–4.95)2.46 (1.07–4.76)1.70 (0.89–4.14)1.95 (0.81–3.82)[126][127][115][117]DAS28-4(ESR) moderate/high disease activity3.56 (1.17–7.13)3.58 (1.36–8.33)2.60 (0.87–5.16)2.68 (1.34–8.23)[107][107][115][115]

aMean CRP was calculated as the average CRP value during each time period (>BL–W24 or >W24–48)

CRP, C-reactive protein; DAS28-4(ESR), Disease Activity Score in 28 joints, erythrocyte sedimentation rate; HAQ-DI, Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index; IQR, interquartile range; LDA, low disease activity; MTX, methotrexate; n, number of pts meeting assessment criteria; QD, once daily

Conclusion:

Although clinical/functional responses were generally similar between treatment groups, numerical improvements were seen for some efficacy endpoints with tofacitinib + MTX vs tofacitinib + PBO. A numerically higher CRFP rate may be associated with higher DAS28-4(ESR) disease activity. CRP changes up to W48 may not trend with CRFP status.

References:

[1]Cohen et al. Lancet Rheumatol 2019; 1: E23-34.

Acknowledgements:

Study sponsored by Pfizer Inc. Medical writing support was provided by Anthony G McCluskey, CMC Connect, and funded by Pfizer Inc.

Disclosure of Interests:

Stanley B. Cohen Consultant of: AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Genentech, Gilead Sciences, Pfizer Inc, Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Genentech, Gilead Sciences, Pfizer Inc, Yi-Hsing Chen Grant/research support from: Bristol-Myers Squibb, GlaxoSmithKline, Pfizer Inc, Naonobu Sugiyama Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Jose Luis Rivas Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Annette Diehl Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Tatjana Lukic Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Jerome Paulissen Consultant of: Pfizer Inc, Haiyun Fan Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Tomohiro Hirose Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Edward Keystone Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Amgen, F. Hoffman-La Roche, Janssen, Merck, Novartis, Pfizer Inc, Sanofi Genzyme, Consultant of: AbbVie, Amgen, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Celltrion, Eli Lilly, F. Hoffman-La Roche, Gilead Sciences, Janssen, Merck, Myriad Autoimmune, Pfizer Inc, Sandoz, Sanofi Genzyme, Samsung Bioepsis, Grant/research support from: Amgen, Merck, Pfizer Inc, PuraPharm

LncRNA SNHG15 promotes the proliferation of nasopharyngeal carcinoma via sponging miR-141-3p to upregulate KLF9

OBJECTIVE

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified to exert an oncogenic or anti-tumor function in malignant tumors. LncRNA SNHG15 is verified to be an oncogene in hepatocellular carcinoma, colorectal cancer, and prostate cancer. In this paper, we mainly investigate the potential influence of SNHG15 on the progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

SNHG15 levels in NPC tissues and cell lines were detected by quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). Correlation between SNHG15 level and prognosis of NPC patients was evaluated by the Kaplan-Meier method. Regulatory effects of SNHG15 on proliferative, colony formation abilities, and apoptosis of SUNE1 and CNE1 cells were assessed through a series of functional experiments. Potential miRNAs binding SNHG15 and the downstream gene of the microRNA (miRNA) were predicted by bioinformatics method, which was confirmed by Dual-Luciferase reporter gene assay and Western blot.

RESULTS

SNHG15 was upregulated in NPC tissues and cells. High level of SNHG15 indicated worse survival in NPC patients. Knockdown of SNHG15 markedly suppressed proliferative ability and induced apoptosis in SUNE1 and CNE1 cells. It is verified that miR-141-3p was the direct target binding SNHG15, and KLF9 was the downstream gene of miR-141-3p. SNHG15 was demonstrated to be a ceRNA to upregulate KLF9 by competitively binding miR-141-3p.

CONCLUSIONS

SNHG15 is upregulated in NPC tissues, and this aggravates the progression of NPC by absorbing miR-141-3p to upregulate KLF9.

Genetic Variants in TNFSF4 and TNFSF8 Are Associated With the Risk of HCV Infection Among Chinese High-Risk Population

BACKGROUND

The tumor necrosis factor superfamily (TNFSF) and TNF receptor superfamily (TNFRSF) play important roles in the immune responses to infections. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of several TNFSF/TNFRSF genes on the risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in the Chinese high-risk population.

METHODS

The TNFSF4-rs1234313, TNFSF4-rs7514229, TNFSF8-rs3181366, TNFSF8-rs2295800, TNFRSF8-rs2298209, and TNFRSF8-rs2230625 SNPs were genotyped in 2309 uninfected controls, 597 subjects with spontaneous HCV clearance and 784 patients with persistent HCV infection using the TaqMan-MGB assay. The putative functions of the positive SNPs were determined using online bioinformatics tools.

RESULTS

After adjusting for gender, age, high-risk population, alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), IL28B-rs12979860 and rs8099917 genotypes, the non-conditional logistic regression showed that rs7514229-T, rs3181366-T, and rs2295800-C were associated with an increased risk of HCV infection (all P FDR < 0.05). Combined analysis of rs7514229-T and rs3181366-T risk alleles showed that the subjects carrying 2-4 risk alleles were more susceptible to HCV infection compared with those lacking any risk allele (all P < 0.001). Furthermore, the risk of HCV infection increased with the number of risk alleles (P trend < 0.001). In silico analysis showed that rs7514229, rs3181366, and rs2295800 polymorphisms may affect the transcription of mRNA by regulating miRNA binding, TF binding, and promoter activation, respectively, which may have biological consequences.

CONCLUSION

TNFSF4-rs7514229, TNFSF8-rs3181366, and TNFSF8-rs2295800 are associated with increased risk of HCV infection in the Chinese high-risk population.

Quantitative characterisation of the ring normal modes. Pyridine as a study case

In the present work, the vibrational normal modes (NM) of pyridine were revisited. Quantum Chemical calculations were performed to help understand the true nature of some ring related vibrational normal modes (RNM) and how they may be correlated with the electronic structure on the ring. The 27 vibrational normal modes were decomposed into the molecular internal coordinates, and the interest was focused on 7 of them, involving the in-plane ring motion. The electronic structure was analysed through frontier Molecular Orbitals (MO), maps of Molecular Electrostatic Potential surfaces (MEPs) and Natural Bond Orbital (NBO) analysis in a dynamic manner, wherein, each vibration was scanned. The present investigation is aimed to provide the Reader with a quantitative characterisation of the RNMs of pyridine.

Comparison of Liver Biomarkers in 288 COVID-19 Patients: A Mono-Centric Study in the Early Phase of Pandemic

Background and Aims: Recent reports have indicated that hepatic dysfunction occurred in a proportion of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We aimed to compare and describe the liver biomarkers in different subtypes of COVID-19 patients. Methods: This study enrolled 288 COVID-19 patients in Huangshi Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine. All patients were divided into ordinary, severe, and critical groups according to the Diagnosis and Treatment Protocol for Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia (Trial Version 7). Demographic, clinical characteristics and liver biomarkers were compared among the three groups. Results: During hospitalization, AST, TBiL, and ALP levels in ordinary and severe patients fluctuated within the normal range with a rising trend in critical patients except AST. ALT and GGT levels fluctuated within the normal range showing an upward trend, while LDH levels in the critical group exceeded the normal range. Prealbumin showed an upward trend, especially in the severe group. At discharge, AST and LDH levels in ordinary and severe groups were lower than their baselines but increased in the critical group. In contrast to albumin, TBiL levels were increased in ordinary and critical groups while decreased in the severe group. The stratified analysis revealed factors affecting liver function in critical cases included highest temperature ≥38.0°C, age ≥60 and symptom of hypoxemia. Conclusions: COVID-19 can cause severe hepatic dysfunction in critical patients, requiring early monitoring and intervention. LDH, ALP, GGT, TBiL, prealbumin, and albumin may be helpful for evaluating and predicting disease prognosis due to their correlation with disease severity in COVID-19.

Vitamin D Level and Vitamin D Receptor Genetic Variation Were Involved in the Risk of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Case-Control Study

BACKGROUND

It has been demonstrated that vitamin D receptor (VDR), a key gene in the metabolism of vitamin D (VD), may affect the development of Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by regulating VD level and its biological effects.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effects of serum VD level, VDR variation, and a combination of VDR SNP and environmental behavior factor on the risk of NAFLD.

METHODS

A total of 3023 subjects from a community in Nanjing were enrolled, including 1120 NAFLD cases and 1903 controls. Serum 25(OH)D₃ levels were measured and eight single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in VDR gene were genotyped.

RESULTS

Logistic regression analyses indicated that VD sufficiency and VD insufficiency were significantly associated with a low risk of NAFLD (all P<0.05; all P_trend<0.05, in a locus-dosage manner). After adjusting for gender and age, VDR rs2228570-A and rs11168287-A alleles were all reduced the risk of NAFLD (all P_FDR=0.136, in dominant model; P_trend =0.039, combined effects in a locus-dosage manner). The protective effects of two favorable alleles were more evident among subjects ≤40 years, non-hypertension, non-hyperglycemia and non-low high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (all P<0.05). The area under the receiver operating curve of the combination of VDR SNP and exercise time for assessing NAFLD risk was slightly higher than that of only including exercise time or neither (all P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

High serum VD levels and VDR variants (rs2228570-A and rs11168287-A) might contribute to a low risk of NAFLD in Chinese Han population. The inclusion of VDR SNP and exercise time could improve the efficiency in assessment of NAFLD risk, which might provide a novel perspective for early screening and preventing NAFLD.

Efficacy and Safety of Glecaprevir/Pibrentasvir in HCV Patients With Previous Direct-Acting Antiviral Therapy Failures: A Meta-Analysis

Background: Since a greater number of hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients have access to direct-acting antiviral (DAA) based therapies, the number of patients not properly responding to prior DAA regimens is increasing. The objective of this comprehensive analysis was to assess the efficacy and safety of glecaprevir/pibrentasvir (GLE/PIB) in HCV patients who experienced previous DAA therapy failures.

Methods: Bibliographic databases were systematically searched for relevant articles published by November 2020. The main endpoints were sustained viral response after 12 weeks (SVR12), adverse events (AEs; any grade) and severe adverse events (SAEs). Publication bias assessment was performed using funnel plots and the Egger's test.

Results: Fourteen studies consisting of a total of 1,294 subjects were included in this study and the pooled estimate of SVR12, AEs and SAEs rates were 96.8% (95%CI: 95.1–98.2), 47.1% (95%CI: 26.0–69.3), and 1.8% (95%CI: 0.7–3.4), respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that pooled SVR12 rates were 97.9% (95%CI: 96.7–98.9) for Japan and 91.1% (95%CI: 87.3–94.3) for the United States; 95.8% (95%CI: 93.9–97.4) for genotype (GT)1 and 100.0% (95%CI: 99.6–100.0) for GT2; 95.3% (95%CI: 92.4–97.2) for cirrhosis and 96.3% (95%CI: 94.2–97.7) for non-cirrhosis cases. There was no publication bias included this study.

Conclusion: This comprehensive analysis revealed that GLE/PIB is an effective and secure retreatment option for patients who did not optimally respond to DAA treatment, especially the Asian population with GT1-2.

Genetic variant of RXR involved in the vitamin D metabolic pathway was linked to HCV infection outcomes among a high-risk Chinese population

Genetic variation of related genes in Vitamin D (VD) metabolic pathway played an important role in antiviral immune response and chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Retinoid X receptor (RXR) is one of the key genes in the metabolism pathway of VD. This study aims to investigate the effect of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in RXR on the outcomes of HCV infection. Three SNPs (RXRɑ-rs4842194, rs1045570 and RXRβ-rs2076310) were genotyped using Sequenom MassARRAY platform in 515 spontaneous clearance subjects, 830 persistent infection subjects, and 1062 uninfected subjects. Multivariate stepwise regression analyss was used to identify the prediction factors for HCV infection outcomes. The USCS Brower and RNAfold web serves were performed to further explore the potential biological functions of positive SNPs. The results of logistic regression analysis after adjusting for age, gender and types of high-risk population showed that subjects with RXRβ rs2076310-T (recessive model: adjusted OR = 1.598, 95%CI = 1.126-2.267, P = 0.009; additive model: adjusted OR = 1.196, 95%CI = 1.011-1.416, P = 0.037) had a significantly increased possibility of HCV infection chronicity. Rs2076310, age, types of high-risk population and aspartate aminotransferase were independent predictors of chronic HCV infection (P < 0.05). And the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of combined effects of these factors was 0.679. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that rs2076310 could affect the gene expression level by affecting the transcriptional regulatory activity of the corresponding gene region. These findings indicated that genetic variation of RXRβ was associated with the risk of HCV infection chronicity among a high-risk Chinese population.

[Study on the influence of sleeve height and implant length on accuracy of static computer-assisted implant surgery]

Objective: To evaluate the influence of the sleeve lengths and implant lengths on accuracy of static computer-assisted implant surgery (sCAIS). Methods: Twenty-eight models of bilateral mandibular single tooth loss were included. Fifty-five implants were placed under the guidance of sCAIS (Straumann Bone Level 4.1 mm×10 mm). According to the height of metal sleeve of static guide plate, 55 implants were divided into 11 groups (free hand group, 1 mm group, 2 mm group, 3 mm group, 4 mm group, 5 mm group, 6 mm group, 7 mm group, 8 mm group, 9 mm group, 10 mm group), with 5 implants in each group. Eight research models were included. Group with 5 mm sleeve guides were used to place implants of different length, (Straumann Bone Level width 4.1 mm, height was 8 mm, 10 mm and 14 mm), 5 implants in each group. Eighteen patients with mandibular single tooth loss were included in the Department of Oral Implantology, Tianjin Stomatological Hospital from October 2018 to June 2019. There were 10 males and 8 females, 18-46(33.7±7.9) years old. A total of 18 implants were implanted and divided into 3 groups (free hand group, 3 mm group and 5 mm group) with 6 implants in each group. Digital software was used to compare the implant positions before and after implantation. Non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test or one-way ANOVA were used to analyze the results. Results: There was no significant difference in implant vertical deviation between different sleeve height groups (1-10 mm) and free hand group, but the neck deviation in free hand group[(1.04±0.13) mm] was significantly higher than that in different sleeve height groups (1-10 mm) (P<0.05). The tip deviations of free hand group, 1 mm group and 2 mm group [(1.32±0.43), (0.83±0.10) and (0.78±0.11) mm, respectively] was significantly higher than that of 10 mm group [(0.31±0.14) mm](P<0.05). The angle deviation of free hand group and 1 mm group (3.99°±0.85° and 2.59°±0.69°), respectively] was significantly higher than that of 10 mm group (0.61°±0.03°) (P<0.05). The tip deviations of implants in the 14 mm group [(0.83±0.22) mm] was significantly higher than that in the 8 mm and 10 mm groups [(0.44±0.07) and (0.49±0.06) mm, respectively]. Clinical studies showed that there was no significant difference in neck deviation, tip deviation and angle deviation between 3 mm group and 5 mm group (P>0.05), but deviations were significantly lower than those in free hand group (P<0.05). Conclusions: The length of the sleeves has significant influence on the accuracy of the surgical guide. There was no significant difference in accuracy of the implant guide with 3 mm or 5 mm metal sleeves. The vitro study has some limitations and needs further systematic research.

The effect of in-hospital high-dose vs. low-dose intensive statin in patients with non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndrome

Background

Statins remain a standard treatment for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients. We aimed to determine the association between different dosages of in-hospital statins and the prognoses among patients receiving percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

NSTE-ACS patients were retrospectively enrolled from January 2010 to December 2014 from five centres in China. Patients receiving either atorvastatin or rosuvastatin during their hospitalizations were included. All the patients were categorized into high-dose statin group (40mg atorvastatin or 20mg rosuvastatin) or low-dose statin group (20mg atorvastatin or 10mg rosuvastatin). In-hospital events and long-term all-cause death was recorded.

Results

Of the 7,008 patients included in the study, 5,248 received low-dose intensive statin (mean age: 64.28±10.39; female: 25.2%), and 1,760 received high-dose intensive statin (mean age: 63.68±10.59; female: 23.1%). There was no significant difference in in-hospital all-cause death between the two groups (adjusted OR, 1.27; P=0.665). All-cause death was similar between the two groups during the long-term follow-up period (30-day: adjusted HR, 1.28; P=0.571; 3-year: adjusted HR, 0.83; P=0.082). However, there was a robust association between the high-dose statin and the reduction in in-hospital dialysis (adjusted OR, 0.11; P=0.030).

Conclusions

The in-hospital high-dose intensive statin is not associated with lower risks of in-hospital or follow-up all-cause death in NSTE-ACS patients undergoing PCI. Considering the robust beneficial effect of in-hospital dialysis, an individualized high-dose intensive statin can be rational in specified populations.

Univariate and multivariate analyses

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): The Science and Technology Planning Project of Guangzhou City athe China Youth Research Funding

Analysis of dynamic disturbance in blood coagulation function of patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019: A retrospective observational study

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has became a major problem affecting global health security.To assess the differences and dynamic changes of blood coagulation function in COVID-19 patients with different severity.A total of 261 COVID-19 patients from January 24 to March 25, 2020 in Huangshi, Hubei Province were enrolled.We designed a retrospective observational study. Clinical information, including age, blood routine and blood coagulation function, were collected. According to the Diagnosis and Treatment Guidelines for COVID-19 (seventh version) that issued by the National Health Committee of the People's Republic of China, patients were divided into 3 subgroups: 186 ordinary, 45 severe and 30 critical ones. We compared the differences in blood coagulation factors among groups.Average age in critical group (71.47 ± 11.48 years) was the oldest of 3 subgroups. At admission, statistically differences could be observed among ordinary, severe and critical patients in D-dimer (0.18 ± 0.33, 0.63 ± 1.13 and 1.16 ± 1.58 mg/L), fibrinogen/fibrin degradation products (FDP) (3.11 ± 5.30, 9.82 ± 23.91 and 21.94 ± 40.98 μg/ml), platelet [(169 ± 62.85), (188 ± 71.56) and (117 ± 38.31) × 10/L)] and lymphocyte count [(1.18 ± 0.46), (0.82 ± 0.35) and (0.75 ± 0.39) × 10/L)], respectively (P < .05). During hospitalization, the peak values of coagulation and valley values of blood routine were monitored. There were significant differences among ordinary, severe and critical patients in D-dimer (0.26 ± 0.46, 1.39 ± 1.51 and 2.89 ± 1.68 mg/L), FDP (3.29 ± 5.52, 23.68 ± 39.07 and 56.11 ± 49.94 μg/ml), platelet [(164 ± 55.53), (171 ± 69.96) and (84 ± 57.80) × 10/L)] and lymphocyte count [(1.10 ± 0.46), (0.65 ± 0.35) and (0.55 ± 0.31) × 10/L)], respectively (P < .001). D-dimer and FDP in the course of disease in severe/critical groups showed a first upward and then downward trend.We concluded that coagulation function indexes such as D-dimer and FDP could be served as markers to estimate COVID-19 patients condition. Close monitoring of coagulation function may be helpful for early diagnosis of severe patients and guidance of treatments.

Hemoglobin glycation index in relationship to the risk of cardiovascular complication in patients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

To estimate the association of hemoglobin glycation index (HGI) level with total mortality and cardiovascular complication risk among patients with T2DM.

METHODS

Literatures evaluating the associations of HGI with the risk of cardiovascular outcomes and total mortality in patients with T2DM were systematically searched by using the PubMed and Embase databases from January 2002 to April 2019. Fixed-effects model and random-effects model meta-analyses were used to calculate pooled adjusted hazard ratios (HRs).

RESULTS

Six prospective cohort studies and one nest case-control study (comprising n = 37,280) were included in this systematic review. T2DM patients with high HGI level had significant high HRs (95% confidence interval, 95% CI) for cardiovascular complication [1.25 (1.16, 1.36)] and total mortality [1.26 (1.14, 1.39)] compared to intermediate HGI level. For every 1-unit increment in HGI, the average HR (95% CI) were 1.20 (1.00, 1.41) for cardiovascular complication and 1.13 (1.06, 1.19) for total mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggested that a rising HGI level was associated with the increased risk for cardiovascular complication and total mortality among patients with T2DM.

MiR-155 regulates the proliferation and apoptosis of pancreatic cancer cells through targeting SOCS3

OBJECTIVE

Reduced expression of suppressors of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) is associated with a variety of tumors. The elevated miR-155 expression is associated with the onset of pancreatic cancer. Bioinformatics analysis revealed a targeted relation between miR-155 and the 3'-UTR of SOCS3. This study investigated whether miR-155 regulates SOCS3 expression and affects the biological effects of pancreatic cancer cells.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

QRT-PCR was used to detect the expression of miR-155 and SCOS3 mRNA in tumor tissues and paracancerous tissues of patients with pancreatic cancer. The dual luciferase reporter gene assay validated the target interaction between miR-155 and SOCS3. Pancreatic cancer cell line SW1990 cells were divided into miR-NC group and miR-155 inhibitor group followed by an analysis of the expressions of SOCS3, p-JAK2 and p-STAT3, cell apoptosis by flow cytometry, and cell proliferation by EdU staining.

RESULTS

Compared with adjacent tissues, miR-155 expression was increased in tumor tissues of patients with pancreatic cancer, and SOCS3 expression was decreased. There was a targeted regulatory relationship between miR-155 and SOCS3 mRNA. Compared with HPDE6-C7 cells, miR-155 expression in pancreatic cancer SW1990 and Capan-1 cells was increased, and SOCS3 expression was decreased. Transfection of miR-155 inhibitor significantly increased SOCS3 expression in pancreatic cancer SW1990 cells, decreased the expression of p-JAK2 and p-STAT3, increased cell apoptosis, and decreased cell proliferation.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased miR-155 expression and decreased SOCS3 expression are related to the pathogenesis of pancreatic cancer. miR-155 inhibits the proliferation and apoptosis of pancreatic cancer cells by inhibition of SOCS3 expression.

miR-490-3p modulates the progression of prostate cancer through regulating histone deacetylase 2

OBJECTIVE

microRNAs (miRNAs) were regarded as critical participators for human cancers progression including prostate cancer (PCa) and have the potential to be used as treatment targets for cancers. Herein, we validated a tumor-suppressive miRNA, miR-490-3p, which may suppress PCa progression. Histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) is a protein that aberrantly expressed in several cancers. However, the role of HDAC2 in the progression of PCa has not been fully elucidated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Expression of miR-490-3p and HDAC2 in PCa was investigated. The effects of miR-490-3p or HDAC2 expression on PCa cell behaviors were analyzed. Association between miR-490-3p and HDAC2 was analyzed by luciferase activity reporter assay and Western blot assay.

RESULTS

We demonstrated that miR-490-3p functioned as a tumor-suppressive role in PCa progression. We found miR-490-3p expression was decreased in PCa cell lines. Down-regulation of miR-490-3p promoted the growth, migration, invasion but inhibited apoptosis of PCa cells. HDAC2 was validated as a direct target of miR-490-3p and promoted the progression of PCa cells. Further studies showed that HDAC2 could reverse the effects of miR-490-3p on growth, migration, invasion and apoptosis of PCa cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data highlighted the key role of miR-490-3p in the progression of PCa. Thus, miR-490-3p may be a novel cancer-specific therapeutic.

MiR-150 alleviates EMT and cell invasion of colorectal cancer through targeting Gli1

Since this article has been suspected of research misconduct and the corresponding authors did not respond to our request to prove originality of data and figures, "MiR-150 alleviates EMT and cell invasion of colorectal cancer through targeting Gli1, by H. Fan, X. Liu, W.-W. Zheng, Z.-H. Zhuang, C.-D. Wang, published in Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2017; 21 (21): 4853-4859-PMID: 29164577" has been withdrawn. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. https://www.europeanreview.org/article/13726.

Comparisons of different classification algorithms while using text mining to screen psychiatric inpatients with suicidal behaviors

OBJECTIVE

To compare the performance of methods based on text mining to screen suicidal behaviors according to chief complaint of the psychiatric inpatients.

METHODS

Electronic Medical Records of inpatients with mental disorders were collected. Text mining method was adopted to screen suicidal behaviors. The performances of different combinations of six algorithms and two term weighting factors were compared under various training set sizes, which were assessed by precision, recall, F1-value and accuracy.

RESULTS

A total of 3600 psychiatric inpatients (1800 with suicidal behaviors and 1800 without suicidal behaviors) were included in this study. In chief complaints of suicidal inpatients, "suicide", "notion" and "suspicion" were the commonest statements, appearing 1228, 705 and 638 times respectively. In contrast, "excitement", "instability" and "impulsion" appeared more frequently in chief complaints of patients without suicidal behaviors (599, 599, 534 times respectively). The performance of each algorithm was generally improved with the increasing training set sizes and tended to be stable when the number of training cases reached 1000, where most of them could achieve satisfactory accuracy values (>0.95). Results of testing set showed that SVM, Random Forest and AdaBoost weighted by TF had better generalization ability. The F1 values were 0.9889 for SVM, 0.9838 for random forest and 0.9828 for AdaBoost, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study confirmed the feasibility of filtering suicidal inpatients with small amounts of representative terms. SVM, Random Forest and AdaBoost weighted by TF have better performance in this task. Our findings provided a practical way to automatically classify patients with or without suicidal behaviors before admission to hospital, which potentially led to considerable savings in time and human resources for identification of high-risk patients and suicide prevention.

Stable expression ratios of five pyroptosis-inducing cytokines in the spleen and thymus of mice showed potential immune regulation at the organ level

BACKGROUND

The immune system is one of the most complex regulatory systems in the body and is essential for the maintenance of homeostasis. Despite recent breakthroughs in immunology, the regulation of the immune system and the etiology of autoimmune diseases such as lupus remain unclear. Systemic lupus erythematosus is a systemic autoimmune disease with abnormally and inconsistently expressed pro-inflammatory cytokines. Pyroptosis is a pro-inflammatory form of programmed cell death that is associated with systemic lupus erythematosus. The thymus and spleen are important immune organs involved in systemic lupus erythematosus. Therefore, this study investigated the difference in expression of pyroptosis-inducing pro-inflammatory cytokines between the spleen and thymus in lupus model mice and in control mice, to describe immune regulation at the organ level.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate differences in the expression of pyroptosis-inducing cytokines in the spleen and thymus and to explore immune regulatory networks at the organ level.

METHODS

Two groups of lupus mice and two groups of control mice were utilized for this study. Using the thymus and spleen of experimental animals, mRNA expression levels of five pyroptosis-inducing cytokines (interleukin 1β, interleukin 18, NLRP3, caspase-1 and TNF-α) were determined via quantitative polymerase chain reaction. In addition, tissue distribution of these cytokines was investigated via immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

All five pyroptosis-inducing inflammatory cytokines showed higher expression in the spleen than in the thymus (p < 0.05). Moreover, the spleen/thymus expression ratios of all five pyroptosis-inducing cytokines were not statistically different between the four experimental groups. Expression of all five cytokines exhibited a stable ratio (spleen/thymus ratios). This distinctive stable spleen/thymus ratio was consistent in all four experimental groups. The stable spleen/thymus ratios of the five inflammatory cytokines were as follows: interleukin 1β (2.02 ± 0.9), interleukin 18 (2.07 ± 1.06), caspase-1 (1.93 ± 0.66), NLRP3 (3.14 ± 1.61) and TNF-α (3.16 ± 1.36). Immunohistochemical analysis showed the cytokines were mainly expressed in the red pulp region of the spleen and the medullary region of the thymus, where immune-activated cells aggregated.

CONCLUSION

The stable spleen/thymus expression ratios of pyroptosis-inducing cytokines indicated that immune organs exhibit strictly regulated functions to maintain immune homeostasis and adapt to the environment.

Vitamin D receptor genetic polymorphisms are associated with oral lichen planus susceptibility in a Chinese Han population

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D receptor (VDR) is involved in multiple immune-mediated disorders including oral lichen planus (OLP). This study investigated the association between VDR gene polymorphisms and the risk of OLP.

METHODS

In total, 177 OLP patients and 207 healthy participants were recruited from the Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Nanjing Medical University. Eight single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs: rs731236, rs739837, rs757343, rs2107301, rs2239185, rs7975232, rs11574129 and rs11568820) in the VDR gene were selected and genotyped.

RESULTS

The results showed that OLP risk was increased in subjects with the rs2239185 TT genotype (Recessive model: adjusted Odd ratio(OR) = 2.68, 95% Confidence interval(CI) = 1.28-5.62, P = 0.009) and rs7975232 CC genotype (Recessive model: adjusted OR = 2.25, 95% CI = 1.10-4.58, P = 0.026). Moreover, rs2239185 and rs7975232 (P < 0.01) showed significant cumulative effects on OLP risk.Haplotype analysis showed that the CC haplotype (rs2239185-rs7975232) was associated with an increased risk of OLP (OR = 3.11, 95% CI = 1.42-6.83, P = 0.005), compared with the AC haplotype.

CONCLUSION

The rs2239185 and rs7975232 variants of VDR may influence OLP susceptibility, and VDR gene polymorphisms may be candidate susceptibility regions for OLP in a Chinese Han population.

Genetic Variation on TNF/LTA and TNFRSF1A Genes is Associated with Outcomes of Hepatitis C Virus Infection

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections are a serious global-scaled public health problem. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)/lymphotoxin alpha (LTA) has been found to play a crucial role in relation to the outcomes of HCV infection after it binds to TNF receptor superfamily member 1A (TNFRSF1A). Thus, we investigated whether or not the TNF/LTA gene cluster and TNFRSF1A gene polymorphisms were associated with the outcomes of HCV infection. 1103 control participants without HCV infection, 497 patients with spontaneous clearance of HCV infection, and 713 patients with persistent HCV infection were enrolled. Rs2229094, rs1041981, rs1799964, and rs767455 were genotyped using the ABI TaqMan allelic discrimination assay. After adjusting for age, gender, and after determining a high-risk population, we used logistic regression analyses for which results indicated that the rs767455-C allele was associated with a reduced risk of HCV infection compared to respective results for the wild-type T allele (dominant model: adjusted OR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.60-0.92, P = .006; additive model: adjusted OR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.62-0.91, P = .004). Results also indicated that the rs1041981-A allele was associated with a decreased risk of persistent HCV infection compared to respective results for the wild-type C allele (additive model: adjusted OR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.68-0.96, P = .017). Genetic polymorphisms in the LTA and TNFRSF1A genes were found to have been potentially important in relation to the susceptibility and chronicity of HCV infection among Chinese Han population.

Analysis of Protein Synthesis in Cucumber Leaves after Inoculation with Corynespora cassiicola: A Proteomic Approach

Cucumber target leaf spot (TLS) disease caused by Corynespora cassiicola has become one of the most important fungal foliar diseases of cultivated cucumbers. However, the defense mechanisms of cucumber plants (Cucumis sativus) against C. cassiicola are still poorly understood. Here, proteins from resistant cucumber plants were analyzed using iTRAQ (isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification) method. A total of 286 differentially expressed proteins were identified (p < 0.05, ratio > 1.2 or < 0.83) 6 and 24 h after pathogen inoculation in the resistant cultivar Jinyou 38 (the data are available via ProteomeXchange; identifier, PXD012903). Some of the early responses to C. cassiicola infection were revealed, and four factors related to the resistance of cucumber plants to TLS were discovered. First, the proteomic approach revealed modulation of signaling pathways in resistant cucumber plants in response to C. cassiicola infection. Second, the plant immune system recognizes the pathogen and initiates expression of immune response proteins, including those related to plant defense, stress response, signal transduction, cell metabolism, and redox regulation. Third, C. cassiicola activates common stress response pathways; in particular, mildew resistance locus O (MLO) proteins were found to play a crucial role in the TLS prevention. Fourth, rapid activation of the carbohydrate and secondary metabolic pathways, modification and reinforcement of cell walls, and adjustment of the apoplastic environment to the highly stressful conditions were crucial in the cucumber resistance to TLS. Overall, our data contribute to the understanding of interactions between plants and their pathogens and provide new insight into molecular processes involved in the resistance of cucumber plants to disease.

[Effect of intravenous granisetron combined and acupuncture point injection at PC6(Neiguan) with 0.9% sodium chlorideon postoperative nausea and vomiting after gynecological laparoscopy]

Objective: To observe the effects of intravenous granisetron and acupuncture point injection at PC6(Neiguan) with 0.9% sodium chloride on postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) after gynecological laparoscopic surgery. Methods: Qualified cases were collected according to prospective randomized controlled clinical trial design. 94 cases patients undergoing gynecological laparoscopic surgery without postoperative intravenous analgesia were selected from February 2017 to November 2018 in Beijing Aerospace General Hospital and The Affiliated Hangzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University. The patients were randomly divided into three groups: bilateral PC6 sham injection of 0.9% sodium chloride+ intravenous granisetron(group A, n=31); bilateral acupuncture point injection at PC6 of 0.9% sodium chloride+ intravenous 0.9% sodium chloride(group B, n=33); bilateral acupuncture point injection at PC6 of 0.9% sodium chloride+ intravenous granisetron(group C, n=30). The indexes including age, body mass index(BMI), type of surgery, surgery time, anesthesia time, liquid intake and output volume, the time from the completion of the operation to the removal of the tracheal catheter, the time from the completion to follow the instruction, respiratory depression, restlessness, arrhythmias and other adverse reactions during anesthesia recovery were recorded. Evaluated the nausea and vomiting according to the visual analogue scales (nausea visual analog scale, NVAS) 12 hours after the operation. Not only the dose and the related frequency of antiemetic drugs for rescue, but also the time of the first anal exsufflation and the pain 24 hours after the operation were recorded. Detected the concentration of motilin (MTL), when the operation started/awake after extubation/12 hours after the operation Results: The incidence of nausea and vomiting 12 hours after the operation in group A, B and C was 35.5%, 33.3%, 10.0%. The difference was statistically significant (χ(2)=0.654, P<0.05). The motilin after 12 hours of operation in group A, B and C was (564±76),(559±84),(472±69) ng/L. The difference was statistically significant (F=14.033, P<0.05). The incidence of nausea and vomiting and the motilin after 12 hours of operation in group C were lower than group A and B. The time for the first anal exsufflation in group A, B and C was (19±8),(19±7),(14±8)h.The difference was statistically significant (F=4.523, P<0.05). The time for the first anal exsufflation in group C was earlier than group A and B. Conclusion: Either intravenous granisetron or acupuncture point injection at PC6 of 0.9% sodium chloride can effectively reduce the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting after gynecological laparoscopic surgery. Intravenous granisetron combined with acupuncture point injection at PC6 of 0.9% sodium chloride has better effect and promotes the first anal exsufflation time, which is conducive to the rapid postoperative recovery of patients.

THERMOLUMINESCENCE OF NEWLY DEVELOPED HIGHLY SENSITIVE α-Al2O3:C BY THE VERTICAL GRADIENT FREEZING METHOD

A highly sensitive α-Al2O3:C crystal was directly grown by the vertical gradient freezing (VGF) method using Al2O3 and graphite powder as the raw materials. The main thermoluminescence (TL) characteristics of α-Al2O3:C detectors grown by the VGF method and TLD-500K detectors were compared. The α-Al2O3:C grown by the VGF method shows good dosimetric properties, such as high TL sensitivity (152 times higher than that of the TLD-100 at heating rate of 1°C/s), an extremely low residual signal of 0.03%, a minimum measurable dose of 0.12 μGy and an excellent linear response within the dose range studied from 1 μGy to 10 Gy. The α-Al2O3:C detectors grown by the VGF method have a higher sensitivity and a better linear response compared to the TLD-500K detectors. Both kinds of α-Al2O3:C can be used in an unannealed form and to measure the very low dose in environmental monitoring and personnel dosimetry.

Genetic mutations in NF-κB pathway genes were associated with the protection from hepatitis C virus infection among Chinese Han population

Host genetic polymorphism is one of major unalterable major factors for HCV infection. NF-κB proteins play multiple roles in immune response and involve in HCV infection and progression. This study was conducted to explore the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in NF-κB pathway and the susceptibility as well as resolution of HCV infection. A total of 1642 Chinese subjects were enrolled in the study, including 963 uninfected control cases, 231 cases with spontaneous viral clearance and 448 cases with persistent HCV infection, and four SNPs (Rel rs842647, NF-κB2 rs12769316, RelA rs7101916, RelB rs28372683) were genotyped by TaqMan assay among them. Potentially functional polymorphisms were analyzed using online bioinformatics tools. The logistic analyses results indicated that RelA rs7101916 T allele (P_Bonferroni = 0.016) and RelB rs28372683 A allele (P_Bonferroni = 4.8e-5) were associated with an decreased risk of the susceptibility to HCV infection among Chinese Han population, which were consistent with the results of cumulative effects and haplotype analysis. The silico analysis of SNPs function suggested that the genetic variation of rs7101916 and rs28372683 could influence gene transcriptional regulation and expression, subsequently affecting NF-κB pathway activation and the susceptibility to HCV infection. This study firstly reported that the carriage of RelA rs7101916 T or RelB rs28372683 A was the potential protective factor against HCV infection among the Chinese population.

The development of hepatocellular carcinoma in HCV-infected patients treated with DAA: A comprehensive analysis

It has been proven that hepatitis C virus (HCV) eradication after interferon-based treatment can reduce the risk of hepatocarcinogenesis. However, there were some arguments about whether the treatment of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) boosts the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We systematically review this crucial topic by combining all the relevant articles to calculate the pooled HCC density after DAA treatment. Studies reporting the recurrence or occurrence in chronic hepatitis C patients who received DAA regimen were selected from three retrieval library screening. Data on baseline and outcomes were extracted independently by three observers. Primary outcomes were incidence density of HCC. Pooled estimates of HCC occurrence and recurrence rate per 100 person-years (py) were undertaken by random-effects meta-analysis. Sixteen studies with 61334 patients, embracing 20 cohorts, were enrolled in this study and divided into two groups (HCC occurrence and HCC recurrence). In the pooled analysis, HCC developed at a rate of 3.5/100 py [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.4, 5.3] among patients without a history of HCC compared with 17.4/100 py (95% CI: 7.8, 39.0) among patients existed. Furthermore, HCC occurrence rate following DAA-induced sustained virological response (SVR) was 2.1/100 py (95% CI: 1.4, 3.4); however, the rate in patients without SVR was 9.1/100 py (95% CI: 5.4, 15.3). HCV cured after DAA therapy could induce a reduction of 78% in the risk of HCC occurrence compared with non-responders. There is no strong evidence for an increased risk of HCC occurrence or recurrence in patients treated by DAA. There was a significant decline in the incidence of HCC occurrence after SVR.

Differential tissue expression of erythroblast macrophage protein in a MRL/lpr mouse model of lupus

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to observe the expression features of erythroblast macrophage protein (EMP) between the tissues of MRL/lpr mice, a mouse model of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and control mice.

METHODS

We examined the serum ANA in both mice groups through indirect immunofluorescence (IIF). Expression features of EMP in bone marrow, liver, renal, spleen, brain, and lung tissues of the MRL/lpr mice and control mice groups were followed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR). Meanwhile, the expression of EMP was located through immunohistochemical (IHC) studies and the expressive cell identified through double immunofluorescent labeling.

RESULTS

IIF showed that lupus mice have strong positive fluorescence, but no significant fluorescence was observed in control mice. Q-PCR detection revealed that EMP was expressed in the marrow, liver, renal, spleen, lung, and brain tissues of lupus mice. The highest levels were observed in the bone marrow, but there was no statistical difference between these tissues. EMP mRNA expression in the liver (t = 2.747, p = 0.01) and bone marrow (t = 3.853, p = 0.008) of lupus mice was significantly higher than in the control mice. However, no differences in EMP mRNA expression were observed in the renal, spleen, lung, and brain tissues between the lupus and control mice (p > 0.05). In addition, the IHC results showed that EMP protein is ubiquitously expressed in all of the tissues of the lupus and control mice. The positive expression rate in the bone marrow and liver tissues of the lupus mice was higher than in the control mice, but without an obvious difference in the other tissues. The double IF staining method shows that EMP protein was expressed in macrophages in the tissues of the lupus mice and the control mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data showed that EMP is ubiquitously expressed in macrophages at all of the tissues of the lupus and control mice. However, the expression of EMP in bone marrow and liver tissues of lupus mice was higher than in the control mice, which indicates that EMP may be important in the development of SLE.

Efficacy and safety of sofosbuvir-containing regimens in chronic hepatitis C patients with genotype 2 and 3: a comprehensive analysis of 18 randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Sofosbuvir is a hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS5B polymerase inhibitor. The objective of this study was to explore the efficacy and safety of sofosbuvir for HCV genotype (GT) 2 and 3 infected patients.

METHOD

We searched randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which analyzed the efficacy and safety of sofosbuvir-containing regimens for HCV GT 2/3 infected patients and collected data. The endpoints were sustained virological response 12- and 24-weeks after the cessation of therapy (SVR12 and SVR24), the adverse events (AEs) and the severe adverse events (SAEs).

RESULTS

Eighteen trials comprising 2,975 HCV GT 2/3 infected patients were included. The pooled estimate SVR12, SVR24, AEs and SAEs rates were 84.6% (95% CI: 83.2-86.0), 83.7% (95% CI: 82.0-85.2), 83.8 (95% CI: 82.3-85.3) and 3.9 (95% CI: 3.2-4.8). The SVR12 rate of sofosbuvir-containing regimens for HCV GT 2 infection was higher than that for HCV GT 3 infection (95.7% vs. 80.8%). The sofosbuvir combined with velpatasvir (with or without ribavirin) regimen presented a higher SVR12 rate and lower AEs rate than the sofosbuvir combined with ribavirin (with or without peg-IFN) regimen (94.9% vs. 80.7% for SVR12 rate; 69.3% vs. 87.7% for AEs rate).

CONCLUSIONS

The sofosbuvir-containing regimens in patients with HCV GT 2 infection have better efficacy than in patients with HCV GT 3 infection.

Elastocapillary self-assembled neurotassels for stable neural activity recordings

Implantable neural probes that are mechanically compliant with brain tissue offer important opportunities for stable neural interfaces in both basic neuroscience and clinical applications. Here, we developed a Neurotassel consisting of an array of flexible and high-aspect ratio microelectrode filaments. A Neurotassel can spontaneously assemble into a thin and implantable fiber through elastocapillary interactions when withdrawn from a molten, tissue-dissolvable polymer. Chronically implanted Neurotassels elicited minimal neuronal cell loss in the brain and enabled stable activity recordings of the same population of neurons in mice learning to perform a task. Moreover, Neurotassels can be readily scaled up to 1024 microelectrode filaments, each with a neurite-scale cross-sectional footprint of 3 × 1.5 μm², to form implantable fibers with a total diameter of ~100 μm. With their ultrasmall sizes, high flexibility, and scalability, Neurotassels offer a new approach for stable neural activity recording and neuroprosthetics.

Why hasn't this woman been screened for breast and cervical cancer? - Evidence from a Chinese population-based study

OBJECTIVE

Less than half of eligible Chinese rural women have been screened for breast and cervical cancer. The objective of this study was to describe individual-level reasons for attending or not attending 'two cancers' screening using Andersen's Behavioral Model of Health Services Use.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

The study sample was from the Health Services Survey in 2013 in Jiangsu, China. A total of 6520 rural women aged 36-65 years answered the questions on 'two cancers' screening participation and were included in the final analysis, which consisted of univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

In the results of multivariate logistic regression, factors significantly associated with having 'two cancers' screening included educational level (odds ratio [OR] = 0.78, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.65-0.92), per capita household income (OR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.58-0.73), availability of female medical faculty in township facilities (OR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.28-0.42), quality of life (OR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.58-0.90), being nulliparous (OR = 3.21, 95% CI = 1.96-5.26), and multiparous (OR = 1.91, 95% CI = 1.68-2.16).

CONCLUSION

To reduce inadequate screening service utilization of breast and cervical cancer in rural areas, efforts should be made not only to target the vulnerable rural women with lower income, lower educational level, and lower health conditions but also to further improve access to female primary-care providers. Strategies are also urgently needed to focus on nulliparous and multiparous women.