Bazi Bushen maintains intestinal homeostasis through inhibiting TLR4/NFκB signaling pathway and regulating gut microbiota in SAMP6 mice

BACKGROUND

Bazi Bushen is a Chinese patented medicine with multiple health benefits and geroprotective effects, yet, no research has explored its effects on intestinal homeostasis. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of Bazi Bushen on intestinal inflammation and the potential mechanism of gut microbiota dysbiosis and intestinal homeostasis in senescence-accelerated mouse prone 6 (SAMP6). The hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and immunohistochemistry were performed to assess the function of the intestinal mucosal barrier. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blotting were used to determine the level of intestinal inflammation. The aging-related β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) staining and Western blotting were used to measure the extent of intestinal aging. The 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) was performed to analyze the change in gut microbiota composition and distribution.

RESULTS

Bazi Bushen exerted remarkable protective effects in SAMP6, showing a regulated mucosal barrier and increased barrier integrity. It also suppressed intestinal inflammation through down-regulating pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α) and inhibiting TLR4/NFκB signaling pathway (MYD88, p-p65, and TLR4). Bazi Bushen improved intestinal aging by reducing the area of SA-β-gal-positive cells and the expression of senescence markers p16, p21, and p53. In addition, Bazi Bushen effectively rebuilt the gut microbiota ecosystem by decreasing the abundance of Bacteroides and Klebsiella, whiles increasing the ratio of Lactobacillus/Bacteroides and the abundance of Akkermansia.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that Bazi Bushen could serve as a potential therapy for maintaining intestinal homeostasis. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

[Optic atrophy in a patient with axonal Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease 2A2A due to MFN2 gene mutations]

A 27-year-old male patient had progressive vision loss in both eyes, which was mainly manifested by impaired ganglion cells in the macular area, accompanied by systemic muscle atrophy in limbs. A complete mitochondrial exon gene detection was performed. The final diagnosis was bilateral optic atrophy and axonal Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease 2A2A caused by mutations of the MFN2 gene. There has been no effective treatment. Applications of nutrients to restore the mitochondrial function may alleviate the clinical symptoms.

Hyperhubeins A-I, Bioactive Sesquiterpenes with Diverse Skeletons from Hypericum hubeiense

Nine new sesquiterpenes, hyperhubeins A-I (1-9), and 14 known analogues (10-23) were isolated from the aerial portions of Hypericum hubeiense. Their structures and absolute configurations were determined unambiguously via spectroscopic analysis, single-crystal X-ray diffraction, and electronic circular dichroism calculations. Compounds 1-3 possess an unprecedented sesquiterpene carbon skeleton. Further, a plausible biosynthetic pathway from farnesyl diphosphate (FPP) is proposed. The isolated phytochemicals were evaluated for neuroprotective and anti-neuroinflammatory properties in vitro. Compounds 1, 2, 5-8, 14, and 21 displayed notable neuroprotective activity against hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced lesions in PC-12 cells at 10 μM. Additionally, compounds 1, 2, 12, and 13 exhibited inhibition of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) production in BV-2 microglial cells, with their IC₅₀ values ranging from 4.92 to 6.81 μM. Possible interactions between these bioactive compounds and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) were predicted via molecular docking. Moreover, Western blotting indicated that compound 12 exerted anti-neuroinflammatory activity by suppressing LPS-stimulated expression of toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4) and inhibiting consequent activation of nuclear factor-kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling.

[Update on B cell depletion therapy for demyelinating optic neuritis with disease-specific antibody]

Demyelinating optic neuritis coexisting with seropositive aquaporin-4 antibody or myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody is different from the typical optic neuritis in immunopathological, clinical and radiological features, as well as therapeutic response. Due to the high recurrence rate and the potential risk of blindness, immunosuppressive therapy is warranted in most cases. The current review tracks and summarizes both the update and the potential controversies of B cell depletion therapy with a special focus on rituximab for demyelinating optic neuritis to optimize clinical decision-making.

Doxycycline vs Placebo at 12 Weeks in Patients With Mild Thyroid-Associated Ophthalmopathy: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Mild thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) negatively impacts quality of life, yet no clinical guidelines for its treatment are available. Existing evidence supports the use of doxycycline in treating mild TAO.

Objective

To evaluate the short-term (12 weeks) efficacy of doxycycline in treating mild TAO.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this placebo-controlled multicenter randomized double-masked trial, 148 patients were assessed for eligibility. After exclusions (patients who were pregnant or lactating, had an allergy to tetracyclines, or had uncontrolled systematic diseases), 100 patients with mild TAO (orbital soft tissue affected mildly) at 5 centers in China were enrolled from July 2013 to December 2019 and monitored for 12 weeks.

Interventions

Participants were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive doxycycline (50 mg) or placebo once daily for 12 weeks.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the rate of improvement at 12 weeks compared with baseline assessed by a composite indicator of eyelid aperture (reduction ≥2 mm), proptosis (reduction ≥2 mm), ocular motility (increase ≥8°), and Graves ophthalmopathy-specific quality-of-life (GO-QOL) scale score (increase ≥6 points). Adverse events were recorded.

Results

A total of 50 participants were assigned to doxycycline and 50 to placebo. The mean (SD) age was 36.7 (9.1) years; 75 participants (75.0%) were female and 100 (100.0%) were Asian. Medication compliance was checked during participant interviews and by counting excess tablets. At week 12, the improvement rate was 38.0% (19 of 50) in the doxycycline group and 16.0% (8 of 50) in the placebo group (difference, 22.0%; 95% CI, 5.0-39.0; P = .01) in the intention-to-treat population. The per-protocol sensitivity analysis showed similar results (39.6% [19 of 48] vs 16.0% [8 of 50]; difference, 23.6%; 95% CI, 6.4-40.8; P = .009). No adverse events other than 1 case of mild gastric acid regurgitation was recorded in either group.

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of this study indicate that oral doxycycline, 50 mg daily, resulted in greater improvement of TAO-related symptoms at 12 weeks compared with placebo in patients with mild TAO. These findings support the consideration of doxycycline for mild TAO but should be tempered by recognizing the relatively short follow-up and the size of the cohort.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02203682.

Epidemiology of intracerebral hemorrhage: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is associated with high mortality and disability rates. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between sex, age, study year, risk factors, bleeding site, median year of study, and the incidence of ICH.

Method

Literature on the incidence of ICH published on 1 January 1980 and 1 January 2020, was systematically retrieved from PubMed and Embase databases. The random-effects model and subgroup analysis were used to explore the relationship between the incidence of ICH and different ages, sex, bleeding sites, and risk factors.

Results

We summarized the epidemiological changes in ICH in the past 40 years according to 52 studies and found that the total incidence of ICH is 29.9 per 100,000 person-years (95% CI: 26.5–33.3), which has not decreased worldwide. The incidence of ICH in the Asian population is much higher than in other continents. In addition, the incidence of ICH increases with age and differs at the 85-year-old boundary. Men are more likely to develop ICH than women, and the basal ganglia region is the most common area for ICH. Of the 10 risk factors examined in this study, those with hypertension had the highest incidence of ICH, followed by those with excessive alcohol consumption and heart disease.

Conclusion

The prevention and treatment of ICH still need to be improved continuously according to age, sex, risk factors, and other factors, and targeted and normative strategies should be gradually developed in the future.

[Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody positive optic neuritis with anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor encephalitis: a case report]

A 6-year-old girl had binocular vision loss with pain for one week. The patient presented with symptoms such as non-communication, language deterioration, dysphonia, and choking when drinking and eating during the course. The serum myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody was positive. Both the serum and cerebrospinal fluid anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antibody were also positive. The diagnoses were myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody positive optic neuritis and anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor encephalitis. High-dose intravenous glucocorticoids were given. Recurrence was not observed during the 15-month clinical follow-up.

[Research progress of ophthalmic surgery robots]

Ophthalmic surgery has the characteristics of high precision, small operating range, need of microscopic vision, and sensitive feedback, which put forward special requirements for surgical robots. The da Vinci robot, intraocular robotic interventional surgical system, hand-held micromanipulator, and co-manipulation robot have been developed and applied in various ophthalmic surgeries. These surgical robots have shown the advantages of improving the operation accuracy, stability, and dexterity in the ocular surface, cataract, and retinal surgeries.

Confirmation of Xp22.11 Duplication as a Germline Susceptibility Alteration in a Wilms Tumor Arising in Horseshoe Kidney

BackgroundThere is strong evidence of a genetic contribution to Wilms tumor, such as WT1 gene variation or epigenetic changes at chromosome locus 11p15. A previous genome wide association study (GWAS) of Wilms tumor identified other significant association loci including Xp22. Case report: A 4-year-old girl developed a Wilms tumor of the left isthmus of a horseshoe kidney. Chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) of peripheral blood showed a 563 kb copy number gain at Xp22.11 that included PRDX4 and ZFX. PRDX4 has been shown to play an active role in the tumorigenesis of malignant neoplasms in various organs. Beckwith-Wiedemann methylation analysis and WT1 sequencing were negative. Whole exome sequencing of peripheral blood revealed pathogenic variant in PMS2 gene (c.765C > A), which is consistent with Lynch syndrome. Conclusion: We report a case of Wilms tumor with germline Xp22.11 duplication which further supports this locus as germline susceptibility alteration for Wilms Tumor.

[Modified Dihuang Decoction improves ovarian reserve in mice by regulating Bcl-2-related mitochondrial apoptosis pathway]

The present study investigated the effect of Modified Dihuang Decoction in improving ovarian reserve in mice through the Bcl-2-related mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. Forty-eight adult female BALB/c mice were randomly divided into the following six groups with eight mice in each group: a blank group, a model group, a femoston group(three cycles of treatment with 0.13 mg·kg~(-1) estradiol tablets for 2 days and 1.43 mg·kg~(-1) estradiol and dydrogesterone tablets for 3 days), and high(64.74 g·kg~(-1))-, medium(43.16 g·kg~(-1))-, and low-dose(21.58 g·kg~(-1)) Modified Dihuang Decoction groups. Mice in other groups except the blank group received a single intraperitoneal injection of 12 mg·kg~(-1) cyclophosphamide and 1.2 mg·kg~(-1) busulfan to induce a model of diminished ovarian reserve(DOR), while those in the blank group received an equal volume of normal saline. Mice were treated with corresponding drugs for 15 d from the 36 th day, once per day, and the mice in the blank group and the model group were treated with an equal volume of normal saline. The general condition and oestrous cycle were observed. The serum hormone levels were detected with the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA). The morphological changes of ovaries were observed by HE staining. Western blot was used to detect the protein expression of cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase-9(caspase-9), cleaved caspase-3, Bcl-2 associated X protein(Bax), Bcl-2, superoxide dismutase-2(SOD-2), and glutathione peroxidase-1(GPx-1). The mRNA expression of Bax and Bcl-2 was detected by real-time fluorescence-based quantitative polymerase chain reaction(real-time PCR). The results showed that compared with the blank group, the model group showed body weight loss, disordered oestrous cycle, elevated serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH) and luteinizing hormone(LH), reduced serum levels of estradiol(E_2), anti-mullerian hormone(AMH), and inhibin B(INHB), the declining number of ovarian follicles and granulosa layers, increased number of atretic follicles, up-regulated protein expression of caspase-9, cleaved caspase-3, and Bax and Bax mRNA expression in ovaries, and down-regulated protein expression of Bcl-2, SOD-2 and GPx-1, and Bcl-2 mRNA expression. Compared with the model group, the Modified Dihuang Decoction groups displayed restored body weight and oestrous cycle, decreased serum levels of FSH and LH, elevated serum levels of E_2, AMH, and INHB, increased number of ovarian follicles, thickened granulosa layers, and declining number of atretic follicles. Additionally, the protein expression of caspase-9, cleaved caspase-3, and Bax, and Bax mRNA expression was down-regulated, and the protein expression of Bcl-2, SOD-2, and GPx-1, and Bcl-2 mRNA expression was up-regulated. The results suggest that Modified Dihuang Decoction can regulate endocrine hormone, promote follicle growth and improve ovarian reserve by enhancing ovarian anti-oxidant capacity, inhibiting the Bcl-2-related mitochondrial apoptosis pathway, and further inhibiting cell apoptosis.

[IgG4-related ophthalmic disease: three-case report]

The first patient complained visual loss of left eye for 1 week. The second patient complained visual loss of right eye for 2 months with conjunctival edema for more than 10 days. The third patient complained redness and swelling of both eyes for 1 year, poor appetite and fatigue for 4 months. All three patients were male with binocular involvement. Enlargement of lacrimal glands in both eyes with bulbar conjunctival edema were observed in 2 patients and binocular eyelid swelling in 1 patient, all 3 patients were associated with external orbital tissue involvement, which were diagnosed as IgG4-related ophthalmic diseases. After treatment with glucocorticoid, the symptoms of the patients were improved, and the patients were followed up for 58, 54, and 60 months, respectively. Among the 3 patients, 2 had recurrence for once, and 1 had recurrence 3 for times. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2021, 57: 375-378).

Ocular surface changes in Graves' ophthalmopathy

Many patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) suffer from dry eye syndrome (DES), and this is one of the most common reasons of eye discomfort in patients with GO. The prevalence of DES in patients with GO is significantly higher than normal subjects. The ocular surface changes involving changes in tears, cornea, conjunctiva and glands occur in GO patients. However, the mechanism of how DES occurs in GO still remains unclear. In this review, the ocular surface changes were illustrated and analyzed the reasons for high prevalence of DES in GO patients.

[Practice and exploration of orbital anatomy and orbital imaging courses in dental students]

PURPOSE

To improve the teaching effect of orbital anatomy course for students majoring in stomatology.

METHODS

Based on a retrospective analysis of average score of orbital anatomy course for previous dental and medical students, and the problems existing in teaching effect, orbital anatomy and orbital imaging course were designed and carried out in dental students. The course combined imaging with orbital anatomy, and included clinical examples. Medical students were set as control. Examination was carried out after the end of the whole course, and the professional knowledge of orbital anatomy of two groups was compared. A self-designed questionnaire was designed to evaluate the teaching effect of orbital anatomy and orbital imaging courses for dental students and residents over 1 year after graduation. SPSS 22 software package was used for Statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The previous average score of dental students was 7.50, and the average score of medical students was 8.67. There was significant difference between the two groups (P=0.004). The average score of dental students after offering the course of orbital anatomy and orbital imaging was 9.67, and the average score of medical students was 9.00. No significant difference was noticed between the two groups(P=0.184). Questionnaire survey showed that the after-class review time of dental students was 20 min, and that of medical students was 30 min. 74.7% of the dental students and 80% of the dental residents did not study orbital anatomy and imaging courses before. 87.4% of the dental students and 100% of dental residents considered that the orbital imaging course was helpful to master the anatomical characteristics of the orbit. 89.7% of the dental students and 100% of dental residents believed that orbital imaging course was helpful to their clinical work.

CONCLUSIONS

Orbital anatomy and orbital imaging course were designed for dental students as supplementary teaching programme. It successfully inspired students' interest in learning, cultivated the students' overall and comprehensive thinking, narrowed students to master the knowledge of orbital anatomy, closed the gap of teaching effect between dental and clinical medicine, and laid the foundation to develop dental professional work in the future.

[Meta-analysis of Kuntai Capsules combined with GnRH-a in treatment of endometriosis]

To systemically evaluate the efficacy and safety of Kuntai Capsules combined with GnRH-a in the treatment of endome-triosis. The databases of CNKI, WanFang, VIP, PubMed, EMbase and Cochrane Library were searched from their establishment to May 2019 to collect the randomized controlled trials of Kuntai Capsules combined with GnRH-a in the treatment of endometriosis. The data were searched, screened and extracted by two researchers according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the data were analyzed by using RevMan 5.3 software. A total of 58 articles were collected and 13 studies were included. The total sample size was 1 041 cases, including 523 cases in the experimental group and 518 cases in the control group. The results of Meta-analysis showed that Kuntai Capsules combined with GnRH-a can reduce the level of follicle stimulating hormone(FSH), luteinizing hormone(LH) and estradiol(E_2) in patients with endometriosis as compared with GnRH-a alone. With a low incidence of adverse events of peri-meno-pausal symptoms during treatment(RR=0.46, 95%CI[0.35, 0.60], P<0.000 01), it can reduce the VAS score of dysmenorrhea(MD=-1.85,95%CI[-1.92,-1.78],P<0.000 01). The recurrence rate in the combined treatment group was lower than that in the control group(RR=0.27, 95%CI[0.09,0.77], P=0.01). This study showed that Kuntai Capsules combined with GnRH-a can reduce the level of FSH, LH and E_2 in patients with endometriosis, reduce the VAS score of dysmenorrhea, with lower incidence of adverse events and recurrence rate, but it still needs large-scale, multicenter, randomized, double-blind and high-quality clinical trials for support and evidence.

[Spectomycin B1 induces VEGFR2 de-SUMO modification to inhibit angiogenesis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma]

Objective:To explore the new mechanism of spectomycin B1 in inhibiting angiogenesis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma and to provide a theoretical basis for targeted gene therapy of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Method:Human nasopharyngeal carcinoma CNE1 cells were divided into two groups, the control group and spectomycin B1 group. Western blot was used to detect the expression levels of small ubiquitin-related modified protein（SUMO） 1 and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2（VEGFR2）. The angiogenesis assay was used to detect the angiogenic ability of CNE1 cells, and the apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. The model of nasopharyngeal carcinoma-bearing mice was established, spectomycin B1 was administered, tumor volume and weight were measured, and protein expression of CD31 was detected by immunohistochemistry and microvessel density was compared. Result:Spectomycin B1 could reduce deSUMOylation of VEGFR2 protein by 4.05 times, significantly reduce the angiogenic ability of CNE1 cells, and increase the apoptosis rate by 20.68%. In the tumor-bearing mouse model, spectomycin B1 treatment could inhibit subcutaneous tumor growth rate and weight, and the blood vessel density decreased by 40.04%. Conclusion:Spectomycin B1 can inhibit neovascularization of nasopharyngeal carcinoma by inducing deSUMOylation of VEGFR2 protein.

Mangiferin promotes macrophage cholesterol efflux and protects against atherosclerosis by augmenting the expression of ABCA1 and ABCG1

Mangiferin has been identified as a potent cardioprotective factor that enhances high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in plasma. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of mangiferin on macrophage cholesterol efflux and the development of atherosclerosis. The results showed that mangiferin injection significantly decreased atherosclerotic plaque size, and reduced plasma levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride, and total cholesterol in apoE knockout mice, whereas reverse cholesterol transport efficiency and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were enhanced. In vitro study showed that mangiferin prevented lipid accumulation and promoted [³H]-cholesterol efflux from acetylated LDL-loaded RAW264.7 macrophages with an increase in the expression of ATP binding cassette A1/G1 (ABCA1/G1), liver X receptor-α (LXRα) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ). Moreover, transfection of PPARγ siRNA or LXRα siRNA markedly abolished the positive effects of mangiferin on ABCA1/G1 expression and cholesterol efflux. The opposite effects were observed after treatment with PPARγ agonist rosiglitazone or LXRα agonist T0901317. In conclusion, mangiferin may attenuate atherogenesis by promoting cholesterol efflux from macrophages via the PPARγ-LXRα-ABCA1/G1 pathway.

[Acellular xenogenic dermal matrix as a spacer graft for treatment of eyelid retraction related to thyroid associated ophthalmopathy]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of an acellular xenogenic dermal matrix (AXDM) as a spacer graft in the surgery to treat upper and/or lower eyelid retraction (UER/LER) in patients with thyroid associated ophthalmopathy (TAO). Methods: This was a retrospective case series study. From January 2016 to December 2017, all the TAO patients who underwent the eyelid retraction surgery with an AXDM as a spacer graft in Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine were included in the study. The follow-up duration was at least 6 months. Eyelid height, ocular discomfort symptoms, and complications were recorded and used to evaluate the efficacy and safety. The treatment outcomes were divided into good, acceptable and unacceptable outcomes. Nonparametric test was used to compare the efficacy of upper and lower eyelid surgery. Results: Eighty patients (102 eyes) were included, consisting of 43 patients (56 eyes) with UER and 37 patients (46 eyes) with LER. The UER patients included 34 females (median age, 37 years) and 9 males (median age, 47 years). The LER patients included 20 females (median age, 39 years) and 17 males (median age, 40 years). At 6 months after surgery, ocular discomfort was relieved in 79.0% (64/81) eyes; photophobia was relieved in 69.5% (41/59) eyes; tearing was relieved in 94.9% (37/39) eyes; lagophthalmos was relieved in 80.7% (67/83) eyes. In patients with UER, the margin reflex distance was lowered from 8.0 (7.5, 8.0) mm to 3.5 (3.4, 4.0) mm (Z=-6.587, P<0.01). The upper scleral show was lowered from 3.0 (3.0, 3.5) mm to 0 mm (Z=-6.616, P<0.01). In patients with LER, the margin reflex distance was lowered from 8.5 (7.5, 9.0) mm to 5.5 (5.5, 6.0) mm (Z=-5.979, P<0.01). The lower scleral show was lowered from 3.0 (2.5, 3.5) mm to 0.0 (0.0, 0.5) mm (Z=-5.965, P<0.01). In total, 71.3% (57 cases) of the patients acquired good outcomes, 22.5% (18 cases) acquired acceptable outcomes, and 6.3% (5 cases) had recurrence, and no significant difference was found between the patients with UER and LER (33, 8, 2 cases vs. 24, 10, 3 cases, Z=-1.176, P>0.05). No other complications, such as infection, rejection, and dislocation, were observed. Conclusion: AXDM as a spacer graft can be a reasonable and safe alternative for eyelid retraction in TAO patients, achieving both the functional and aesthetic improvements. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2019, 55: 821-827).

Esculetin Inhibits Proliferation, Invasion, and Migration of Laryngeal Cancer In Vitro and In Vivo by Inhibiting Janus Kinas (JAK)-Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription-3 (STAT3) Activation

BACKGROUND Laryngeal cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors of the head and neck. Natural compounds in traditional Chinese medicine provide many valuable potential compounds for tumor chemotherapy. Esculetin, a coumarin derivative from several herbs, inhibits proliferation of many types of cancer cells, but its anticancer effect in laryngeal cancer is still not clear. MATERIAL AND METHODS We performed in vitro proliferation assay, invasion assay, and migration assay to assess the effect of esculetin against LC, and in vivo nude mouse xenograft animal model was used as well. Flow cytometry was conducted to analyze the effect of esculetin on cell cycle of LC cells, and Western blot analysis was used to assess the effect esculetin on the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. RESULTS Esculetin remarkably inhibits proliferation, migration, and invasion of LC cells, and reduces in vivo xenograft tumor growth and tumor weight in a dose-dependent manner. Our molecular mechanism study demonstrated that esculetin significantly inhibits STAT3 phosphorylation and blocks translocation of STAT3 into the nucleus, and esculetin also blocks the cell cycle in G1/S phase. CONCLUSIONS In a summary, by inhibiting the STAT3 activation, esculetin shows potential anticancer effects against the laryngeal cancer.

[Hypoxia increases chemotherapy resistance in nasopharyngeal carcinoma via inducing CDK6 deSUMOylation]

Objective: To understand the mechanism of chemotherapy resistance in nasopharyngeal carcinoma under hypoxic conditions through the perspective of protein SUMOylation modification. Methods: Cobalt chloride (CoCl(2)) was used to establish the hypoxic model of human nasopharyngeal carcinoma CNE1 cells. Then, the cell cycle was detected by flow cytometry, and the expression level of small ubiquitin-related modifier(SUMO) and cyclin-dependent kinase 6 (CDK6) proteins were detected by western blotting. MTT assay was used to determine the median lethal dose (IC(50)) of cancer cells against cisplatin, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level. Results: The cell cycle of CNE1 induced by hypoxia was arrested in G0/G1 phase.The results of Western blot showed that the protein expression level of CDK6 in CNE1 cells was lower than that in the control group (0.83±0.25 vs. 0.43±0.21, t=14.67, P=0.003). The protein level of conjugated SUMO1 was significantly lower than that in the control group (2.69±0.48 vs. 1.38±0.31, t=17.22, P=0.001), while the level of free SUMO1 protein was significantly higher than that in the control group (2.01±0.43 vs. 2.60±0.59, t=15.45, P=0.002).The LC50 of CNE1 cells in the control group was significantly lower than that in the hypoxic group (29.44 μg/ml vs. 97.72 μg/ml, t=12.79, P=0.001). After CNE1 cells received 50 μg/ml cisplatin for 48 h, the LDH content in the supernatant of the control group was significantly higher than that in the hypoxic group ((541.49±64.59) ng/ml vs. (234.67±41.03) ng/ml, t=11.94, P=0.007)). The apoptosis rate of CNE1 cells in the control group was significantly higher than that in the hypoxic group ((76.64±5.37)% vs. (32.84±4.77) ng/ml, t=8.49, P=0.003)). Conclusion: Hypoxia can dissociate the covalent modification of CDK6 and SUMO1, inhibit cell cycle and increase the chemotherapy resistance of nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

[Anxiety and depression in patients with idiopathic tinnitus and its relative factors analysis]

Objective: To investigate the psychological status of anxiety and depression in patients with idiopathic tinnitus, and to analyze its relative factors. Method: One hundred and sixty seven patients with idiopathic tinnitus were assessed by Self-Rating Anxiety Scale(SAS),Self-Rating Depression Scale(SDS) and general condition questionnaire. Patients with anxiety or depression were reassessed after corresponding treatment for 6 weeks. Result: Fifty-five patients(32.93%) were in anxiety state and 43 patients(25.75%) were in depression state. Twenty-seven patients(16.17%) were in both anxiety and depression state. The multivariate logistic regression analysis found that the incidence of anxiety and depression in patients with idiopathic tinnitus were related to sleep disorders, course of disease and THI score(P<0.05). Treatment scores(SAS and SDS) were statistically significantly different between pre- and post-treatment(P<0.01). Conclusion: The anxiety and depression state is highly prevalent in idiopathic tinnitus patients and is related to course of disease, severity of tinnitus and sleep disorders. In clinical practice, we should pay close attention to the psychological status of patients with idiopathic tinnitus, and take timely psychological intervention.

Tanshinone IIA attenuates estradiol-induced polycystic ovarian syndrome in mice by ameliorating FSHR expression in the ovary

Tanshinone IIA (TSIIA) is a major component of Salvia miltiorrhiza, a Chinese herb that exhibits a therapeutic effect on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The present study replicated PCOS via the neonatal treatment of estradiol in mice. Estrous cycles, body and ovarian weight, serum levels of testosterone and estradiol were determined. Histological examination of ovaries was performed. The mRNA and protein levels of aromatase luteinizing hormone receptor and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSHR) in ovaries and granule cells were assayed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, respectively. TSIIA was revealed to reverse all disorders induced by estradiol treatment, including prolonged estrous cycles, increased body and ovarian weight, increased atretic cyst-like follicles and decreased corpus luteum, large antral follicles and preovulatory follicles. These improvements in PCOS as a result of TSIIA treatment are likely due to the revised testosterone/estradiol balance, as TSIIA reversed the decrease in aromatase mRNA, the enzyme that converts androgen to estrogen. As the expression of aromatase is regulated by the FSH pathway, TSIIA-mediated elevation in FSHR expression may lead to the upregulation of aromatase. Therefore, TSIIA revises the balance of androgen and estrogen by rescuing the reduced expression of FSHR and aromatase, thus attenuating murine PCOS. The current study aimed to further the application of natural drugs in the treatment of PCOS to confront the side effects of hormone drugs and expand the use of TSIIA.

[Clinical features and curative effect analysis of patients with myeloid neoplasms and RUNX1 mutations]

目的

研究伴RUNX1突变髓系肿瘤的临床特征和异基因造血干细胞移植（allo-HSCT）的疗效。

方法

回顾性分析2014年7月至2018年4月在苏州大学附属第一医院行二代测序检出RUNX1基因突变的42例髓系肿瘤患者的临床资料。

结果

全部42例伴RUNX1突变髓系肿瘤患者中，男27例，女15例，中位年龄43.5（16~68）岁，急性髓系白血病（AML）30例，骨髓增生异常综合征（MDS）12例。共突变基因中频率最高的是FLT3（26.2%，11/42），携带FLT3共突变基因的均为AML患者（P=0.014）。而MDS患者中最常见的共突变为ASXL1（25%，3/12）。allo-HSCT组（31例）1年总生存（OS）、无病生存（DFS）率分别为（70.6±9.0）%、（61.0±9.4）%，化疗组（11例）1年OS、DFS率分别为（34.4±16.7）%、（22.4±15.3）%，两组OS、DFS率差异有统计学意义（χ²=4.843，P=0.036；χ²=4.320，P=0.047）。单因素分析提示移植年龄>45岁为影响患者OS及DFS的预后不良因素[HR=4.819（95%CI 1.145~20.283），P=0.032；HR=5.945（95%CI 1.715~20.604），P=0.005]，染色体核型复杂异常为影响OS的预后不良因素[HR=5.572（95%CI 1.104~28.113），P=0.038]。

结论

allo-HSCT可以改善伴RUNX1突变髓系肿瘤患者预后，移植年龄>45岁、染色体核型复杂异常是影响allo-HSCT疗效的不良预后因素。

[Outcome of combination of HLA-haploidentical hematopoietic SCT with an unrelated cord blood unit for 127 patients with acquired severe aplastic anemia]

目的

评价单倍型造血干细胞移植（haplo-HSCT）联合第三方脐血干细胞移植治疗重型再生障碍性贫血（SAA）的疗效及安全性。

方法

对2011年9月至2017年4月间接受haplo-HSCT联合第三方脐血干细胞移植的127例SAA患者进行回顾性研究。

结果

全部127例SAA患者中，男74例，女53例，中位年龄23.5（3~54）岁，其中极重型再生障碍性贫血65例。诊断至移植中位时间2（0.5~180）个月。单倍型造血干细胞来源为骨髓+外周血。脐血均选用单份，HLA配型≥4/6相合。127例患者均接受改良Bu/Cy+ATG/ALG预处理方案（白消安+环磷酰胺+抗胸腺细胞球蛋白/抗淋巴细胞球蛋白）。以环孢素A、霉酚酸酯联合短程甲氨蝶呤预防GVHD。回输单倍型供者单个核细胞10.87（3.61~24.00）×10⁸/kg，CD34⁺细胞3.49（1.02~8.89）×10⁶/kg；回输脐血单个核细胞2.22（1.10~7.30）×10⁷/kg，CD34⁺细胞0.56（0.16~2.27）×10⁵/kg。127例患者中5例发生早期死亡。在可评估的122例患者中，1例发生原发植入失败，其余121例患者成功植入（均为单倍型造血干细胞植入）。中性粒细胞、血小板植入时间分别为11（9~28）d、15（9~330）d，5例患者发生血小板植入不良。移植过程中74例（58.27%）发生感染。存活患者中位随访20.5（4.0~60.0）个月，Ⅱ~Ⅳ度急性GVHD发生率为24.79%（30/121），中/重度慢性GVHD发生率为14.15%（15/106），预期4年总生存率为（78.5±4.3）%，无失败生存率为（77.4±4.3）%。

结论

haplo-HSCT联合第三方脐血干细胞移植治疗SAA疗效确切且安全性较好，在无全相合供者情况下可作为有价值的治疗选择。

[Lipoma of the pharyngeal opening auditory tube:a case report]

A young female complained left ear fullness for over three months. She has a history of tympanocentesis one year before. Nasal endoscopic inspection reported that left nose pharynx ministry is derived from the vegetations of eustachian tube. Pure tone audiometry found that the left ear took conductive deafness. We could see the reteacerd tympanic membrane with eardrum effusion by using of endotoscpe. Finally the nasal endoscopic surgery confirmed the excision of lesion of pharyngeal opening auditory tube.

Apigenin Retards Atherogenesis by Promoting ABCA1-Mediated Cholesterol Efflux and Suppressing Inflammation

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The development of atherosclerosis is accompanied by escalating inflammation and lipid accumulation within blood vessel walls. ABCA1 plays a crucial role in mediating cholesterol efflux from macrophages, which protects against atherogenesis. This research was designed to explore the effects and underlying mechanisms of apigenin (4', 5, 7-trihydroxyflavone) on ABCA1-mediated cellular cholesterol efflux and LPS-stimulated inflammation in RAW264.7 macrophages and apoE-/- mice.

METHODS

Expression of genes or proteins was examined by RT-PCR or western blot analysis. Liquid scintillation counting was used to detect percent cholesterol efflux. Cellular cholesterol content was measured using HPLC assay. The secretion levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines were quantified by ELISA assay. Atherosclerotic lesion sizes were determined with Oil Red O staining. The contents of macrophages and smooth muscle cells in atherosclerotic lesion were evaluated using immunohistochemistry. Plasma TC, TG, HDL-C and LDL-C levels in apoE-/- mice were evaluated using commercial test kits.

RESULTS

Apigenin potently increased ABCA1 expression through miR-33 repression in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Treatment with apigenin significantly increased ABCA1-mediated cholesterol efflux, and reduced TC, FC and CE levels in macrophage-derived foam cells. In LPS-treated macrophages, the expression levels of TLR-4, MyD88 and p-IκB-α as well as nuclear NF-κB p65 were decreased by the addition of apigenin. Moreover, apigenin markedly decreased secretion levels of several pro-inflammatory cytokines. Lastly, in LPS-challenged apoE-/- mice, apigenin administration augmented ABCA1 expression, decreased the contents of macrophages and smooth muscle cells in atherosclerotic lesion, reduced miR-33, TLR-4, and NF-κB p65 levels, improved plasma lipid profile and relieved inflammation, which results in less atherosclerotic lesion size.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, these results suggest that apigenin may attenuate atherogenesis through up-regulating ABCA1-mediated cholesterol efflux and inhibiting inflammation.

Activation of c-Jun/JNK signaling predicts poor prognosis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma

A significant proportion of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) will develop regional relapse or distant metastasis after treatment. This present study evaluated the role of c-Jun/JNK signaling pathways in NPC and its relationship with prognosis. Our study enrolled 122 patients diagnosed with NPC and 136 chronic nasosinusitis patients. Immunohistochemistry was applied to detect positive expression of c-Jun, JNK, p-c-Jun, and p-JNK proteins. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was then adopted to assess the diagnostic value of c-Jun/JNK signaling pathways for NPC. Activated c-Jun/JNK signaling pathways were observed in NPC patients. Activation of c-Jun/JNK signaling was associated with TNM staging of NPC, as NPC patients with stage III-IV had higher positive expression rates of c-Jun, JNK, p-c-Jun, and p-JNK proteins compared to NPC patients with stage I-II. According to ROC curve results, areas under the curve of c-Jun, JNK, p-c-Jun, and p-JNK protein expression were 0.943, 0.968, 0.963, and 0.938, respectively. The 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates and mean survival times of dead patients were lower and shorter in patients with positive expressions of c-Jun, JNK, p-c-Jun, and p-JNK than those with negative expression (all P < 0.05). Overexpression of c-Jun/JNK is associated with development and progression of NPC, indicating that c-Jun/JNK serves as a predictive indicator for early diagnosis and prognosis of NPC.

[Serotype distribution and drug resistance of Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis isolated from nasopharynx of Uygur children]

Objective: To investigate the serotype distribution and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae), Haemophilus influenzae (H. influenzae) and Moraxella catarrhalis (M. catarrhalis) isolates collected from nasopharyngeal swabs from Uygur children in Kashi. Methods: Nasopharyngeal swabs were collected from inpatient Uygur children aged from 1 month to 5 years with respiratory infections from the pediatric department, the First People's Hospital of Kashi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Antimicrobial susceptibilities of the isolates were determined with E-test and KB disk diffusion methods. The production of β-lactamase was detected for H. influenzae and M. catarrhalisisolates using nitrocefin disc method. Quellung test and latex agglutination test were adopted to identify serotypes of S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae isolates. Results: Forty-seven S. pneumoniae, 13 H. influenzae and 16 M. catarrhalis isolates were detected. All of the 47 S. pneumoniae isolates were sensitive to parenteral penicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, vancomycin and levofloxacin; the susceptibility rates to cefotaxime, imipenem and chloramphenicol were 94% (44/47), 89% (42/47), and 98% (46/47). The resistance rate to erythromycin was 74% (35/47). The most common serotype of S. pneumoniae was serotype 19A (10 strains, 21%). The coverage rate of 13-valent conjugate vaccine (PCV13) was 70% (33/47). None of the 13 H. influenzae isolates could be typed. They were highly susceptible to tested β-lactams antibiotics, except ampicillin. Only one H. influenzae isolate could produce β-lactamase, and two isolates were identified as β-lactamase-negative-ampicillin-resistant ones. The sixteen M. catarrhalis isolates were all positive in β-lactamase detection, but sensitive to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, cephalosporins and meropenem. Conclusions: In Kashi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonmous Region, S. pneumoniae isolates from Uygur children were highly sensitive to parenteral penicillin and other β-lactams antibiotics. H. influenzae isolates from Uygur children were highly susceptible to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, cephalosporins and ciprofloxacin. All M. catarrhalis isolates from Uygur children could produce β-lactamase, but were sensitive to the enzyme inhibitors and cephalosporins.

High TGF-β1 expression predicts poor disease prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma patients

Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) promotes the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We evaluated the associations between TGF-β1 expression and clinicopathological parameters in HCC patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), as well as the prognostic power of TGF-β1 expression. Eligible studies were retrieved from several databases, and effects (hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs)) for overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), metastasis-free survival (MFS), and progression-free survival (PFS) were pooled to assess the prognostic ability of TGF-β1 expression in HCC patients. Twelve qualified articles and our TCGA data comprising 2,021 HCC patients were incorporated. In the TCGA analysis, HCC patients with higher TGF-β1 expression presented a shorter OS than those with lower TGF-β1 expression (HR = 1.42, p < 0.05). In the meta-analysis, univariate analyses showed that HCC patients with higher TGF-β1 expression had a shorter OS (pooling HR = 1.71, p < 0.01) and DFS/RFS/MFS/PFS (pooling HR = 1.60, p < 0.01) than those with lower TGF-β1 expression. In conclusion, our results suggested that high TGF-β1 expression promotes a poor prognosis in HCC patients.

[A multicenter randomized controlled study on the treatment of acute and chronic pharyngitis with Binglianqingye Spray]

Objective:To further evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of Binglianqingye Spray on acute and chronic pharyngitis by clinical observation. Method:A randomized, double-blind and multicenter clinical trial which served Jinsangzi Tablet and Jinhoujian Spray as the control groups was conducted to observe the effect of Binglianqingye Spray on 360 patients with acute and chronic pharyngitis. Result:Binglianqingye Spray could significantly improve the symptoms with the exact clinical efficacy of the acute pharyngitis or chronic pharyngitis, such as sore throat, pharyngeal mucosa and uvula, dry throat burning, headache, cough, pharynx posterior wall lymphoid follicles hyperemia swelling and mandibular angle lymph node swelling and so on, but it occasionally occurred urine abnormalities and urine sugar adverse reactions. At the same time, the taste satisfaction was 82.1%. Conclusion:The combined effects of Binglianqingye Spray on the treatment of acute pharyngitis or chronic pharyngitis are well, the adverse reaction is rare and the patient's compliance is high.

Functionalization of MOFs via a mixed-ligand strategy: enhanced CO2 uptake by pore surface modification

Two isostructural MOFs based on rare quaternary SBUs with a new (3,3,4,6)-connected topology have been assembled, which possess high porosity with highly polar pore systems, and also exhibit high uptake for CO₂ and significant selectivity for CO₂ over CH₄.

Rational construction of a stable Zn4O-based MOF for highly efficient CO2 capture and conversion

An exceptionally stable Zn₄O-MOF has been rationally synthesized, which exhibits high CO₂ capture and efficient catalytic conversion for CO₂ cycloaddition with epoxides under mild conditions.

[Anxiety and depression in patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss and its influencing factors]

Objective:To evaluate the psychological status of anxiety and depression in patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss, and to analyze the factors that affect the occurrence of anxiety and depression. Method:A total of 198 patients with moderate and severe sudden sensorineural hearing loss were enrolled. The patients were tested by general condition questionnaire and hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS). Patients who developed anxiety and depression were tested again using the HADS at 1 week after completion of the treatment. Result:The incidence of anxiety was 27.27% in patients with moderate and severe sudden sensorineural hearing loss, and the incidence of depression was 25.25%. The scores of anxiety and depression were statistically significant (P<0.05). The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the status of anxiety and depression was accompanied by symptoms and other diseases (P<0.05). There was a significant difference between the effective group, the significant efficacy group and the cured group (P<0.05). The difference between the scores before and after treatment was compared. Differences in the ineffective group compared with the other three groups, and the cured group compared with the other three groups of anxiety, depression were statistically significant. Conclusion:The problem of anxiety and depression in patients with moderate and severe sudden sensorineural hearing loss is relatively prominent, and the symptoms of anxiety and depression are obviously affected by the symptoms and other diseases. After treatment, anxiety and depression status changes significantly. In clinical practice, anxiety and depression and its influencing factors should be taken into account for the treatment of the patients with severe sudden sensorineural hearing loss.

[The features of c/oVEMP in patient with unilateral Meniere's disease]

Objective:To evaluate the difference in c/oVEMPs between patients with MD and normal controls.Method:Twenty-two patients with unilateral MD and 21 healthy subjects (as normal controls) were prospectively examined with c/oVEMPs. The results were compared between these two groups. MD group were divided into two groups according to the pure tone average threshold: group1 PTA≤40 dBnHL,group2 PTA>40 dBnHL,and then compared their results. A commercially available software package SPSS 19.0 was used for statistical analysis.Result:The latency and amplitude of cVEMP and oVEMP in the affected side and contralateral side of the MD group were no significant difference. Compared with normal controls,the latency of P1 and N1 was prolonged,the amplitude was decreased in the MD group's cVEMP. The amplitude was decreased in the MD group's oVEMP,but the latency was not prolonged. Group 2's extraction rate of cVEMP was significantly lower than group 1.Conclusion:An increased occurrence of abnormal c/oVEMP recordings appeared in MD patients,possibly as a result of hydrops of the otolith. The saccular dysfunction may be more common than utricular dysfunction. Furthermore,that otolith damage is gradually increasing with the aggravation of cochlear injury in MD.

Epidemiologic characteristics and outcomes of open globe injury in Shanghai

AIM

To investigate the epidemiologic characteristics and outcomes of open globe injury in Shanghai.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted for 148 unilateral open globe injury cases presenting to a tertiary referral hospital of Shanghai. Electronic medical records were reviewed and phone surveys were conducted to collect and analyze 1) background of patient; 2) setting of injury and clinical signs at presentation; 3) treatment procedure and outcome; 4) quality of life after injury.

RESULTS

There were more male patients (77.03%) than females (22.97%), more temporary habitants (79.05%) than residents (20.95%). The subjects in this study presented a significantly lower constitutional status of education than that of the whole Shanghai population (P<0.001). Occupational injury was the first cause of injuries (39.86%), followed by home accident (20.27%), road accident (16.89%), violent behavior (16.89%) and outdoor injury (6.08%). The 143 subjects (96.62%) were not wearing spectacles at the time of injury. Of all patients, 77 subjects (52.03%) had the outcome of no vision (including enucleation). The classification and regression tree (CART) prognosis presents 59.58% sensitivity to predict visual survival correctly and 80.19% specificity to predict no vision correctly. The patients whose injured eye had no vision reported more reduction of life quality.

CONCLUSION

We found that male subject, temporary habitants, low educational status and no eyewear are risk factors of open globe injury in Shanghai. Occupational injury is the leading cause. CART analysis presents a certain agreement to the actual visual outcome. The injury imposes negative impact on quality of life especially in no vision cases. The education of eye protection may help to avoid the injury.

[Study on resurrection callus culture extract on the expression and mechanism of AQP-1 in Schwann cells after injury of the resurrection]

Objective:To investigate the mechanism of AQP1 in Schwann cells and repair effect of resurrection callus culture extract on hypoxic injury cells. Method:Being cultured for 24 h, the morphological changes of the cells with different concentrations of CoCl2 were observed under the microscope and the changes of AQP1 were detected by Western blotting. Then being cultured for 24 h, the cells with different concentrations of esurrection callus culture extract were detected by CCK-8. By selecting the best concentration of resurrection callus culture extract and CoCl2, the experiment has to be continued. The changes of AQP1 and HIF-1 alpha protein were detected by Western blotting in 7 days. Result:6 μl/ml CoCl2 was selected as the optimal concentration of hypoxia model, not only because of the obvious changes in cell morphology, but no significant inhibition of cell growth, and the highest expression of AQP1. The optimum concentration of 2.5 μl/ml resurrection callus culture extract could significantly promote cell proliferation. Schwann cells increased expression of AQP1 induced expression of HIF-1 alpha, and resurrection callus culture extract can reduce AQP1 and HIF-1 alpha. Conclusion:There was a significant correlation between the expression of AQP1 and peripheral nerve Schwann cell edema, the expression of AQP1 was induced by HIF-1 after cells hypoxia. The resurrection callus culture extract can significantly decrease the expression of AQP1 and to alleviate edema in Schwann cells.

[The clinical values of oVEMP in the repositioning of otoconia of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo]

Objective:To evaluate whether oVEMP amplitudes increase after successful repositioning of otoconia in patients diagnosed as benign paroxysmal positioning vertigo(BPPV).Method:Fifty-three cases of unilateral pcBPPV were prospectively examined with air-conducted oVEMP at two time points: before, and 1 week after reposition. A commercially available software package SPSS 20.0 was used for statistical analysis.Result:Prevalence was 84.9% before treatment, and it changed to 88.7% 1 week after reposition. During one week follow-up, 28 out of 45 cases were asymptomatic(healing group); vertigo could still be induced in the other 17(effective group) cases. In healing group the mean N1 amplitude on the affected side increased from(3.16±0.64)μV at baseline (before the treatment) to(3.99±0.67)μV at 1 week after treatment; the mean N1-P1 amplitudes on the affected side increased from(3.08±1.14)μV at baseline(before the treatment) to (4.22±0.87)μV at 1 week after treatment, and this increase was significant (P< 0.05). However there is no significantly statistical difference on the no affected side in the healing group(P>0.05). And no significantly statistical difference was found in the effective group(P>0.05).Conclusion:A repositioning of otoconia to the utricle may occur during the repositioning maneuver in BPPV, an increasing oVEMP amplitudes was found after the repositioning maneuver, oVEMP examinations could be useful to evaluate the the effect of repositioning in BPPV.

[Comparison of anxiety and depression state among patients with different type of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo]

Objective:To investigate and analyze the state of anxiety and depression among patients with different type of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo(BPPV).Method:Patients with four types of BPPV were enrolled in our study,which named as posterior semicircular canals BPPV(PC-BPPV),anterior semicircular canals BPPV(AC-BPPV), horizontal semicircular canals BPPV(HC-BPPV), multiple canals BPPV(MC-BPPV).Thorough otological and neuro-otological examinations were performed on all cases,and their states of anxiety and depression were assessed by hospital anxiety and depression scale(HADS).Result:The incidence of anxiety and depression of all cases divided into four types BPPV (PC-BPP, AC-BPPV, HC-BPPV, MC-BPPV) were 36.45%, 22.78%, 28.57%, 63.16% respectively in our study .The differences among the four groups were statistically significant(P< 0.05).That were higher in these cases with PC-BPPV or MC-BPPV than those with AC-BPPV or HC-BPPV.The HADS aggregate scores of the pre-repositioning were statistically significant(P< 0.05). And the patients with PC-BPPV or MC-BPPV were higher than the other two groups.The HADS aggregate scores of the post-repositioning were statistically significant(P<0.05). And the cases with PC-BPPV or MC-BPPV were higher than the other two groups. The post-repositioning scores were compared with the pre-repositioning scores, and the difference was significant(P< 0.05).Conclusion:Among all cases with the four different types of BPPV,anxiety and depression psychological mood is more common in patients with PC-BPPV or MC-BPPV.Mood disorders affect the reset recovery after treatment,and reduce the therapeutic effect.We should pay more attention to psychological state of the patients with BPPV during treatment.And early psychological intervention can improve treatment effect.

[Study on bimodal stimulation for aural rehabilitationdevelopmentin infants with a unilateral cochlear implant]

Objective:To evaluated the aural rehabilitation development of the bimodal stimulation in deaf infants with a unilateral cochlear implant. Method:The 36 infants, suffering from severe-to-profound bilateral sensorineural hearing loss with residual hearing on at least one side, assigned into two groups randomly:18 wore only the cochlear implant(unilateral A group),while the other 18 used the CI and a contralateral hearing aid at the same time(bimodal group).The aural rehabilitation development was evaluated by sound field test and speech rehabilitation tests(including vowels, consonants, tones, monosyllables, disyllables, tri-syllables and selected hearing) after rehabilitation lasting 3 month(T1),6 month(T2)and 12 month(T3)respectively. Result:At time T1，free-field hearing threshold of 500 Hz of unilateral A group was statistically higher than bimodal group. Free-field hearing thresholds of 500 Hz and 1 000 Hz of unilateral A group were statistically higher than bimodal group attime T2（P<0.05）.At time T1, vowels, consonants, tones ,monosyllables, and disyllables rehabilitation scores of unilateral A group were statistically higher than bimodal group（P<0.05）.At time T2,there were no statistically significant differences between two groups（P>0.05）.However,consonants, tones,disyllables, tri-syllables and selected hearing rehabilitation scores of bimodal group were statistically higher than unilateral group（P<0.05）. Conclusion:The cochlear implant infants with bimodal stimulation have better aural rehabilitation development with the process of aural rehabilitation gradually.Therefore, it is essential to make full use of the advantages of binaural hearing and to choose the appropriate aural rehabilitation mode for every deaf infant.

[The value of area curve ratio electrocochleography in diagnosisof Meniere's disease during different periods]

Objective:To evaluate the value of summating potential /action potential (SP/AP) area curve ratio in diagnosis of Meniere s disease(MD) during acute attacks and quiescence phase.Method:The normal control group and the MD group during acute attacks and quiescence phase received electrocochleography(EcochG)examination.The SP/AP amplitude and area curve ratios were measured respectively(to derive the SP/AP amplitude and area curve ratio),with normal SP/AP amplitude and area curve ratios of EcochG were identified,and analysed the results of EcochG in MD acute attacks and MD quiescence phase and the normal control group.Result:The upper limit of normal for SP/AP amplitude and area curve ratio were respectively 0.40 and 1.78.The SP/AP area curve ratio positive rate during acute attacks was 95.56% and SP/AP amplitude ratio was 71.77%.SP/AP area curve ratio positive rate during quiescence phase was 55.56% and amplitude ratio was 33.33%.The results showed that there were significant different between the two markers(P<0.05).The positive rate which during the period of acute attacks was higher than that quiescence phase period,The positive rate of the SP/AP amplitude and area curve ratios between acute attacks and quiescence phase were significant different(P<0.05).By the F rest,the SP/AP area curve ratio parameters in MD acute attacks and MD quiescence phase and the normal control group were compared,and the difference was significant(F=111.10,P<0.05).There were significant different between the two groups among three(P<0.05).The SP/AP area curve ratio parameters among the MD acute attacks and MD quiescence phase and the normal control group were significant different(F=65.68,P<0.05).There were significant different between the two groups among three(P<0.05).Conclusion:It can increase the positive rate when undergo the EcochG examination during acute attacks of Meniere's disease,while the SP/AP area curve measures are more sensitive than SP/AP amplitude ratio in diagnosis of Meniere's disease.

[The normative values of vestibular evoked myogenic potentialin different age-groups]

Objective:To obtain the normative values of vestibular evoked myogenic potential(VEMP),i.e.the threshold,latency,latency-interval,amplitude of healthy population in Tianjin medical university General hospital.These values will help clinical diagnosis.Method:Seventy-five healthy individuals (39 males and 36 females,age from 21 to 70 years)were enrolled in this study.They were divided into 3 groups according to age:group 1(21-30 years),group 2(>30-50 years),group 3(>50-70 years).oVEMP and cVEMP were performed and the normative values were obtained.SPSS 19.0 was used to analyze the data.Result:The response rate was 77.3% and 85.3% of oVEMP and cVEMP respectively in all subjects.The values of oVEMP:in group 1 response rate was 100%,amplitude was(8.29±1.25)μV and threshold value was(83.65±4.10) dBnHL.In group 2 response rate was 85.4%,amplitude was(6.32±1.21)μV and threshold value was(89.24±4.18) dBnHL.In group 3 response rate was 46%,amplitude was(4.26±1.20) μV,threshold value was(95.13±4.21) dBnHL.The values of cVEMP: in group 1 response rate was 100%,amplitude was(108.87±19.10)μV and threshold value was(84.54±4.35) dBnHL.In group 2 response rate was 83.3%,amplitude was(84.10±20.02)μV and threshold value was (90.33±4.29)dBnHL.In group 3 response rate was 72.0%,amplitude was(64.18±19.22)μV and threshold value was (95.19±4.30)dBnHL.The statistical analysis show significant difference in oVEMP/cVEMP response rate,threshold and amplitude among different age-groups(P<0.05).No significant difference was found in N1,P1 latency and latency-interval among different age-groups(P>0.05).Conclusion:The normative values of VEMP of healthy population in Tianjin medical university General hospital were obtained in this research.These VEMP data were used for the diagnosis of related diseases.

Neutrophil Proteases Promote Experimental Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm via Extracellular Trap Release and Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Activation

OBJECTIVE

We previously established that neutrophil-derived dipeptidyl peptidase I (DPPI) is essential for experimental abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) development. Because DPPI activates several neutrophil serine proteases, it remains to be determined whether the AAA-promoting effect of DPPI is mediated by neutrophil serine proteases.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

Using an elastase-induced AAA model, we demonstrate that the absence of 2 neutrophil serine proteases, neutrophil elastase and proteinase-3, recapitulates the AAA-resistant phenotype of DPPI-deficient mice. DPPI and neutrophil serine proteases direct the in vitro and in vivo release of extracellular structures termed neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Administration of DNase1, which dismantles NETs, suppresses elastase-induced AAA in wild-type animals and in DPPI-deficient mice reconstituted with wild-type neutrophils. NETs also contain the cathelicidin-related antimicrobial peptide that complexes with self-DNA in recruiting plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs), inducing type I interferons (IFNs) and promoting AAA in DPPI-deficient mice. Conversely, depletion of pDCs or blockade of type I IFNs suppresses experimental AAA. Moreover, we find an abundance of human cathelicidin peptide, a 37 amino acid sequence starting with 2 leucines and the human orthologue of cathelicidin-related antimicrobial peptide, in the vicinity of pDCs in human AAA tissues. Increased type I IFN mRNA expression is observed in human AAA tissues and circulating IFN-α is detected in ≈50% of the AAA sera examined.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that neutrophil protease-mediated NET release contributes to elastase-induced AAA through pDC activation and type I IFN production. These findings increase our understanding of the pathways underlying AAA inflammatory responses and suggest that limiting NET, pDC, and type I IFN activities may suppress aneurysm progression.

A chiral metal–organic framework with polar channels: unique interweaving six-fold helices and high CO2/CH4 separation

A chiral Cu(ii) metal–organic framework, possesses interesting polar channels based on interweaving heterochiral [4 + 2] helices, exhibiting multiple CO₂ binding sites and highly selective capture for CO₂ over CH₄.