Circulating microRNA-33b levels are associated with the presence and severity of coronary heart disease

MicroRNA-33b (miR-33b) affected various biological pathways in regulating cholesterol homeostasis which may link to the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic lesions. However, whether this marker is associated with the presence and severity of coronary heart disease (CHD) is undetermined. We aim to explore the diagnostic value of circulating miR-33b level in the presence and severity of CHD. Altogether 320 patients were enrolled, including 240 patients diagnosed with CHD while 80 were classified as controls after CAG examination. Circulating miR-33b level was analyzed in all subjects, the Gensini score was calculated to assess the severity of stenotic lesions. The association between miR-33b and the presence and severity of CHD was analyzed, and the diagnostic potential of miR-33b of CHD was performed by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. The CHD group had higher miR-33b levels (p < 0.001), and the miR-33b content significantly elevated following an increasing Gensini score (p for trend < 0.001). After adjustments for potential risk factors, such as several blood lipid markers, miR-33b remained a significant determinant for CHD (p < 0.001). ROC analysis disclosed that the AUC was 0.931. The optimal cutoff value of miR-33b was with a sensitivity of 81.3% and a specificity of 98.7% in differentiating CHD. It can prognosticate that the higher level of miR-33b was linked to increased severity of disease in CHD patients. Thus, the application of this marker might assist in the diagnosis and classification of CHD patients. Nevertheless, additional studies with larger sample sizes will be required to verify these results.

[Establishment of acute graft-versus-host disease model after non-myeloablative haploidentical peripheral blood stem cell transplantation in aged mice]

Objective: To establish an acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) model in aged mice after non-myeloablative haploidentical peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (haplo-PSCT). Methods: C57BL/6 (H-2b) male mice aged 6-8 weeks were used as donor mice, and CB6F1 (H-2b×d) female mice aged 14-16 months were used as recipient mice. The donor mice were injected subcutaneously with rehuman granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (rhG-CSF) 5 days before transplantation for hematopoietic stem cell mobilization.The recipient mice were divided into control group (CG), spleen cell low-dose group (SL), spleen cell medium-dose group (SM) and spleen cell high-dose group (SH) according to random number table method, with 16 rats in each group, all of which received total linear accelerator X-ray irradiation (TBI) with a total dose of 6 Gy. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and spleen cells of different doses (0.5×107/each, 1.0×107/each and 2.0×107/each in SL group, SM group and SH group, respectively) were transfused through the tail vein within 4 hours after TBI, and only the same amount of normal saline was transfused in CG group. After transplantation, the survival and weight changes of mice in each group were observed for 30 days, and the changes of blood routine were monitored regularly. Mice peripheral blood was collected 21 days after transplantation to detect the chimerism rate of the donor. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was performed on the skin, liver and colon of mice 21 days after transplantation to analyze the histopathological changes of aGVHD target organs. Results: All the mice in each group were successfully transplanted. After TBI, the weight and activity of mice in all groups decreased, and the phenomenon of bone marrow suppression appeared. During the observation period, all mice in CG group and SL group survived, 3 mice in SM group died with survival time of (26.0±5.8) days, and 6 mice in SH group died with survival time of (20.9±7.3) days. The body weight of mice in SH group was lower than that in CG group, SL group and SM group 21days after transplantation [(25.0±0.7), (25.5±0.4), (25.0±1.4) vs (20.8±0.8) g, all P<0.05]. Compared with CG group, SL group and SM group, the levels of leukocyte, erythrocyte, hemoglobin and platelet in SH group decreased 21 days after transplantation (all P<0.05). There was no significant difference in donor chimerism rate among SL group, SM group and SH group [(95.8%±0.8%), (95.5%±1.4%) and (95.1%±1.3%), respectively, all P>0.05]. Compared with CG group, SL group and SM group, the tissue structure of aGVHD target organs in SH group was severely damaged, with a large number of inflammatory cells infiltratedand higher histopathological scores than SL group and SM group (all P<0.05). Conclusion: For aging CB6F1 mice, after 6 Gy TBI pretreatment with linear accelerator X-ray, PBMC (1×107/each) and spleen cells (2.0×107/each) were injected to successfully induce aGVHD model after non-myelablative haplo-PSCT.

High Engraftment and Metastatic Rates in Orthotopic Xenograft Models of Gastric Cancer via Direct Implantation of Tumor Cell Suspensions

Although the implantation of intact tumor fragments is a common practice to generate orthotopic xenografts to study tumor invasion and metastasis, the direct implantation of tumor cell suspensions is necessary when prior manipulations of tumor cells are required. However, the establishment of orthotopic xenografts using tumor cell suspensions is not mature, and a comparative study directly comparing their engraftment and metastatic capabilities is lacking. It is unclear whether tumor fragments are superior to cell suspensions for successful engraftment and metastasis. In this study, we employed three GC cell lines with varying metastatic capacities to stably express firefly luciferase for monitoring tumor progression in real time. We successfully minimized the risk of cell leakage during the orthotopic injection of tumor cell suspensions without Corning Matrigel by systematically optimizing the surgical procedure, injection volume, and needle size options. Comparable high engraftment and metastatic rates between these two methods were demonstrated using MKN-45 cells with a strong metastatic ability. Importantly, our approach can adjust the rate of tumor progression flexibly and cuts the experimental timeline from 10-12 weeks (for tumor fragments) to 4-5 weeks. Collectively, we provided a highly reproducible procedure with a shortened experimental timeline and low cost for establishing orthotopic GC xenografts via the direct implantation of tumor cell suspensions.

Improved Measurement of the Evolution of the Reactor Antineutrino Flux and Spectrum at Daya Bay

Reactor neutrino experiments play a crucial role in advancing our knowledge of neutrinos. In this Letter, the evolution of the flux and spectrum as a function of the reactor isotopic content is reported in terms of the inverse-beta-decay yield at Daya Bay with 1958 days of data and improved systematic uncertainties. These measurements are compared with two signature model predictions: the Huber-Mueller model based on the conversion method and the SM2018 model based on the summation method. The measured average flux and spectrum, as well as the flux evolution with the ^{239}Pu isotopic fraction, are inconsistent with the predictions of the Huber-Mueller model. In contrast, the SM2018 model is shown to agree with the average flux and its evolution but fails to describe the energy spectrum. Altering the predicted inverse-beta-decay spectrum from ^{239}Pu fission does not improve the agreement with the measurement for either model. The models can be brought into better agreement with the measurements if either the predicted spectrum due to ^{235}U fission is changed or the predicted ^{235}U, ^{238}U, ^{239}Pu, and ^{241}Pu spectra are changed in equal measure.

Precision Measurement of Reactor Antineutrino Oscillation at Kilometer-Scale Baselines by Daya Bay

We present a new determination of the smallest neutrino mixing angle θ_{13} and the mass-squared difference Δm_{32}^{2} using a final sample of 5.55×10^{6} inverse beta-decay (IBD) candidates with the final-state neutron captured on gadolinium. This sample is selected from the complete dataset obtained by the Daya Bay reactor neutrino experiment in 3158 days of operation. Compared to the previous Daya Bay results, selection of IBD candidates has been optimized, energy calibration refined, and treatment of backgrounds further improved. The resulting oscillation parameters are sin^{2}2θ_{13}=0.0851±0.0024, Δm_{32}^{2}=(2.466±0.060)×10^{-3}  eV^{2} for the normal mass ordering or Δm_{32}^{2}=-(2.571±0.060)×10^{-3}  eV^{2} for the inverted mass ordering.

Association of cognitive function and hypoperfusion in Moyamoya disease patients without stroke

The influence of hypoperfusion on cognition in patients with Moyamoya disease (MMD) is unclear. This study investigated cognitive function changes in MMD patients without stroke and illustrated the relationship between cognitive impairment and hypoperfusion. We prospectively performed a structured battery of seven neurocognitive tests on 115 adult MMD patients without stroke and 82 healthy controls. Hemodynamic assessment was performed using dynamic susceptibility contrast-enhanced MRI. The best subset regression (BSR) strategy was used to identify risk factors. Global cognition (MoCA), speed of information processing (TMT-A), executive function (TMT-B), visuospatial function (CDT), and verbal memory (CAVLT) were significantly poorer in MMD patients without stroke than in healthy controls. The TMT-B score significantly correlated with cerebral blood flow (CBF) in the bilateral lateral frontal lobes, centrum semiovale, and temporal lobes. The TMT-A and CAVLT scores significantly correlated with CBF in the left centrum semiovale (L-CSO) and temporal lobes. According to the BSR results, age, education, white matter lesions, and hypoperfusion of the L-CSO were risk factors for cognitive impairment. Hypoperfusion leads to multiple cognitive impairments in MMD patients without stroke. The perfusion of particular areas may help evaluate the cognitive function of MMD patients and guide therapeutic strategies.

Analysis of the current status of community nurses' spiritual care competencies and the factors: A descriptive cross-sectional analysis

AIM

To examine and analyze the level of spiritual care competency among community nurses.

DESIGN

The study employed a cross-sectional design.

METHODS

From May to July 2022, 442 nurses from community health clinics were chosen as survey respondents using the convenience sample method. The General Information Questionnaire, the version in Chinese of the Nurses' Spiritual Caregiving Awareness Scale and the Chinese version of the Spiritual Caregiving Competence Scale were used in the survey. There were 442 questionnaires distributed, 422 were collected, and the response rate was 95.4%.

RESULTS

The amount of spiritual care competencies of community nurses was positively correlated with the level of spiritual awareness. Simultaneously, their level of education, religious beliefs, marital status and the degree of knowledge of spirituality were all influenced.

Aberrant Spontaneous Brain Activity and its Association with Cognitive Function in Non-Obese Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Resting-State fMRI Study

BACKGROUND

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been proven to be associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment and dementia, and this association is more significant in non-obese NAFLD populations, but its pathogenesis remains unclear. Our study aimed to explore the abnormalities of spontaneous brain activity in non-obese NAFLD patients by resting-state fMRI (RS-fMRI) and their relationship with cognitive function.

METHODS

19 non-obese NAFLD, 25 obese NAFLD patients, and 20 healthy controls (HC) were enrolled. All subjects underwent RS-fMRI scan, psychological scale assessment, and biochemical examination. After RS-fMRI data were preprocessed, differences in low-frequency fluctuation amplitude (ALFF), regional homogeneity (ReHo) and functional connectivity (FC) were compared among the three groups. Furthermore, the relationship between RS-fMRI indicators and cognitive and clinical indicators were performed using correlation analysis.

RESULTS

The cognitive function was declined in both NAFLD groups. Compared with obese NAFLD patients, non-obese NAFLD patients showed increased ALFF and ReHo in the left middle temporal gyrus (MTG), increased ReHo in the sensorimotor cortex and reduced FC between left MTG and right inferior frontal gyrus (IFG). Compared with HC, non-obese NAFLD patients showed increased ALFF and ReHo in the left calcarine cortex and fusiform gyrus (FG), decreased ALFF in the bilateral cerebellum, and reduced FC between left FG and right IFG and left angular gyrus. In addition to the same results, obese patients showed increased activity in different regions of the bilateral cerebellum, while decreased ALFF in the right superior frontal gyrus and ReHo in the right orbitofrontal cortex (OFC). Correlation analysis showed that in non-obese patients, the ALFF values in the FG and the FC values between the left MTG and the right IFG were associated with cognitive decline, insulin resistance, and fasting glucose disorder.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-obese NAFLD patients showed abnormal local spontaneous activity and FC in regions involved in the sensorimotor, temporo-occipital cortex, cerebellum, and reward system (such as OFC), some of which may be the potential neural mechanism difference from obese NAFLD patients. In addition, the temporo-occipital cortex may be a vulnerable target for cognitive decline in non-obese NAFLD patients.

[Effect of grape seed extract on oxidative stress and pathological changes of aorta in rats with chronic periodontitis and arteriosclerosis]

PURPOSE

To investigate the effect of grape seed extract on pathological changes of aorta in rats with chronic periodontitis and arteriosclerosis, and to analyze the possible mechanism.

METHODS

Fifteen SPF male rats with chronic periodontitis and arteriosclerosis were randomly divided into three groups, i.e., model group(n=5), low dose of grape seed extract group (n=5), high dose of grape seed extract group (n=5) , and control group (n=10). The rats in the low and high dose groups were treated with 40 mg·kg-1·d-1 and 80 mg·kg-1·d-1 for 4 weeks respectively, while the rats in the normal control group and the model group were treated with the same amount of normal saline at the same time. The maximal intima-media thickness(IMT) of abdominal aorta was measured by H-E staining, the activity of SOD and the content of MDA in serum were measured by colorimetry, the content of GSH-px in serum and serum levels of inflammatory factor (TNF-α) and interleukin-6(IL-6) were detected by ELISA. p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase/nuclear transcription factor Kappa B p65(p38 MAPK/NF-κB p65) pathway was detected by Western blotting. SPSS 20.0 software package was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

In the model group, the intima of abdominal aorta was irregularly thickened, with a lot of inflammatory cell infiltration, and arterial lesions appeared. In the low-and high-dose groups of grape seed extract, the plaque of abdominal aorta intima decreased and inflammatory cells reduced significantly, arterial vascular disease was improved, and the improvement was more obvious in high dose group than in low dose group. Compared with the control group, the levels of IMT, serum MDA, TNF-α, IL-6, p-p38MAPK/p38MAPK, NF-κB p65 and serum SOD and GSH-px in the model group were increased, while those in the model group were decreased(P＜0.05); the levels of IMT, serum MDA, TNF-α, IL-6, p-p38MAPK/p38MAPK, NF-κB p65 and SOD, GSH-px were decreased in the low and high dose groups(P＜0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Grape seed extract can inhibit the oxidative stress level and inflammatory reaction in serum of chronic periodontitis with arteriosclerosis rats, thus improving the intimal lesion of aorta, possibly by inhibiting the activation of p38MAPK/NF-κB p65 pathway.

First Measurement of High-Energy Reactor Antineutrinos at Daya Bay

This Letter reports the first measurement of high-energy reactor antineutrinos at Daya Bay, with nearly 9000 inverse beta decay candidates in the prompt energy region of 8-12 MeV observed over 1958 days of data collection. A multivariate analysis is used to separate 2500 signal events from background statistically. The hypothesis of no reactor antineutrinos with neutrino energy above 10 MeV is rejected with a significance of 6.2 standard deviations. A 29% antineutrino flux deficit in the prompt energy region of 8-11 MeV is observed compared to a recent model prediction. We provide the unfolded antineutrino spectrum above 7 MeV as a data-based reference for other experiments. This result provides the first direct observation of the production of antineutrinos from several high-Q_{β} isotopes in commercial reactors.

[Influences of leukocytes in patients with type 2 diabetes and periodontitis to the effects of periodontal treatment on glycemic control]

Objective: To analyze the influences of leukocytes on improving blood glucose control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and periodontitis after periodontal mechanical therapy. Methods: Thirty-five patients visiting Peking University Third Hospital from March 2011 to August 2012, as well as thirty-four patients visiting Peking University Hospital of Stomatology from March 2011 to August 2012 and December 2016 to December 2018 were selected in this research. These subjects were non-smokers, and with moderate to severe chronic periodontitis and T2DM. The full set of periodontal examinations including probing depth (PD), attachment loss (AL), bleeding index (BI) and plaque index (PLI) were conducted. Besides, counts of white blood cells (WBC), parameters of glucose and lipids metabolites such as fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high density lipoprotein (HDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL) in serum were examined before treatment. Then, oral hygiene instruction, scaling and root planing (SRP) were carried out. Three months after SRP, the baseline examinations were repeated in all patients. According to the baseline leukocyte counts, the patients were divided into subgroups: low WBC group (WBC<6.19×109/L) and high WBC group (WBC≥6.19×109/L). Paired t-test for comparison of changes after treatment, analysis of co-variance for comparing the intervention effects between subgroups, and multifactor Iogistic regression analysis were performed. Results: Three months after SRP, all periodontal indexes were significantly improved in both groups. Leukocyte counts decreased significantly in high WBC group (7.64±1.51 vs. 6.89±1.53, P=0.008). In high WBC group, HbA1c (7.67±1.35 vs. 7.18±1.09, P=0.001) and LDL (3.28±0.76 vs. 2.67±0.85, P=0.042) decreased significantly, while there were no such differences in low WBC group. Influence of leukocyte level on HbA1c (OR=0.12, P=0.038) and LDL (OR=0.15, P=0.001) improvement was statistically significant. Hierarchical analysis showed such improvement notably perform in female [HbA1c (OR=0.30, P=0.021), LDL (OR=0.34, P=0.001)] and severe periodontitis group [HbA1c (OR=0.15, P=0.025), LDL (OR=0.24, P=0.017)]. Through interaction test, female and leukocyte counts at baseline had relative excess risk affecting the effect of periodontal intervention on HbA1c (P=0.036) and LDL (P=0.005). Conclusions: SRP could significantly improve the blood glucose and lipid control in patients who had T2DM and chronic periodontitis with relative higher leukocytes level. Female patients with severe periodontitis showed more obviously effects.

Joint Determination of Reactor Antineutrino Spectra from ^{235}U and ^{239}Pu Fission by Daya Bay and PROSPECT

A joint determination of the reactor antineutrino spectra resulting from the fission of ^{235}U and ^{239}Pu has been carried out by the Daya Bay and PROSPECT Collaborations. This Letter reports the level of consistency of ^{235}U spectrum measurements from the two experiments and presents new results from a joint analysis of both data sets. The measurements are found to be consistent. The combined analysis reduces the degeneracy between the dominant ^{235}U and ^{239}Pu isotopes and improves the uncertainty of the ^{235}U spectral shape to about 3%. The ^{235}U and ^{239}Pu antineutrino energy spectra are unfolded from the jointly deconvolved reactor spectra using the Wiener-SVD unfolding method, providing a data-based reference for other reactor antineutrino experiments and other applications. This is the first measurement of the ^{235}U and ^{239}Pu spectra based on the combination of experiments at low- and highly enriched uranium reactors.

White matter damage in patients with mild cognitive impairment in Parkinson's disease

BACKGROUND

This study investigates the correlation between white matter structural damage and cognitive impairment in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

METHODS

A total of 40 patients with PD were divided into two groups, i.e., a mild cognitive impairment (PD-MCI) and a normal cognitive (PDN) group, and 20 healthy patients were enrolled as the control group. Changes in the white matter structure of patients with PD were evaluated using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and cognitive function was evaluated using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scale and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Finally, the correlations between the two groups were analyzed.

RESULTS

The Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale score was significantly higher in the PD-MCI than in the PDN group (P=0.008). The total MoCA and MMSE scores in the PD-MCI group were significantly lower than in the PDN and control groups (P<0.01). Patients in PDMCI group were tested by MMSE scale, and the abnormal score rate was 60.0%. Among them, 8 PD patients with normal MMSE total score were found to have mild cognitive impairment by MoCA evaluation. When compared with the PDN and control groups, the MoCA scores for visual space, which is assessed as part of the MoCA scale and generally represents bilateral parietal function; naming; memory; and attention were significantly lower in the PD-MCI group (P<0.001). When compared with the PDN group, the fractional anisotropy (FA) values for the right parietal and left occipital lobes were significantly lower in the PD-MCI group (P=0.005; P=0.018). The relationship between MoCA value and right parietal white matter and left occipital white matter was 0.555, 0.474, respectively. A Pearson's correlation test was conducted to compare the FA values and MoCA scores of the various brain areas in the PD-MCI group and revealed a significant positive correlation between the MoCA score and the white matter of the right parietal and left occipital lobes (P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with PD experience early cognitive impairment, and the MoCA scale can be used for early screening. In addition, the DTI of white matter can highlight early white matter damage. In the current study, the damaged brain areas displayed by DTI were consistent with areas showing decreased MoCA scores and were positively correlated with the severity of PD.

[Analysis of Dimethyltryptamine in Captured Suspicious Substances：Three Case Reports]

Abstract.

Gamma-Ray Observation of the Cygnus Region in the 100-TeV Energy Region

We report observations of gamma-ray emissions with energies in the 100-TeV energy region from the Cygnus region in our Galaxy. Two sources are significantly detected in the directions of the Cygnus OB1 and OB2 associations. Based on their positional coincidences, we associate one with a pulsar PSR J2032+4127 and the other mainly with a pulsar wind nebula PWN G75.2+0.1, with the pulsar moving away from its original birthplace situated around the centroid of the observed gamma-ray emission. This work would stimulate further studies of particle acceleration mechanisms at these gamma-ray sources.

Application of virtual scenario simulation combined with problem-based learning for paediatric medical students

OBJECTIVES

To examine the application and effects of virtual scenario simulation combined with problem-based learning (PBL) in teaching paediatric medical students.

METHODS

Participants were 300 paediatric medical students randomly divided into a study group and control group. Students in the study group were taught using virtual scenario simulation combined with PBL; students in the control group were taught using conventional teaching methods. Academic performance, knowledge of paediatrics, self-evaluation of comprehensive ability and degree of learning satisfaction were evaluated.

RESULTS

Students in the study group showed considerably higher academic performance and noticeably higher classroom performance. Paediatric knowledge, comprising initiating communication, collecting information, giving information, understanding the paediatric patient and concluding communication, was higher for students in the study group. The degree of learning satisfaction was higher for students in the study group.

CONCLUSION

Virtual scenario simulation combined with PBL can effectively improve students' academic performance, mastery of paediatric knowledge, comprehensive ability evaluation and learning satisfaction. The broader application of this approach should be explored for medical student education.

Expression and localization of Sox10 during hair follicle morphogenesis and induced hair cycle

Sox transcription factors play many diverse roles during development, including regulating stem cell states, directing differentiation, and influencing the local chromatin landscape. Sox10 has been implicated in the control of stem/progenitor activity and epithelial-mesenchymal transition, yet it has not been studied in relation to the hair follicle cycle or hair follicle stem cell (HFSC) control. To elucidate the role of Sox10 in hair follicle cycle control, we performed immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence analysis of its expression during hair morphogenesis, the postnatal hair cycle, and the depilation-induced murine hair follicle cycle. During hair follicle morphogenesis, Sox10 was expressed in the hair germ and peg. In telogen, we detected nuclear Sox10 in the hair bulge and germ cell cap, where HFSCs reside, while in anagen and catagen, Sox10 was detected in the epithelial portion, such as the strands of keratinocytes, the outer root sheath (ORS) in anagen, and the regressed epithelial strand of hair follicle in catagen. These results suggest that Sox10 may be involved in early hair follicle morphogenesis and postnatal follicular cycling.

Endometrial clear cell carcinoma invading the right oviduct with a cooccurring ipsilateral oviduct adenomatoid tumor: A case report

BACKGROUND

To investigate the clinicopathological features of endometrial clear cell carcinoma that has invaded the right oviduct with a cooccurring ipsilateral oviduct adenomatoid tumor.

CASE SUMMARY

A case of endometrial clear cell carcinoma invading the right oviduct with a cooccurring ipsilateral oviduct adenomatoid tumor was collected and analyzed using pathomorphology and immunohistochemistry. Endometrial clear cell carcinoma cells were distributed in a solid nest, papillary, shoe nail-like, and glandular tube-like distribution. There was infiltrative growth, and tumor cells had clear cytoplasm and obvious nuclear heteromorphism. The cancer tissue was necrotic and mitotic. The cancer tissue invaded the right oviduct. The ipsilateral oviduct also had an adenomatoid tumor. The adenomatoid tumor was arranged in microcapsules lined with flat or cubic cells that were surrounded by smooth muscle tissue. The adenomatoid tumor cells were round in shape.

CONCLUSION

Clear cell carcinoma of the endometrium can invade the oviduct and occur simultaneously with tubal adenomatoid tumors. Upon pathological diagnosis, one should pay close attention to distinguishing whether an endometrial clear cell carcinoma is invading the oviduct or whether it is accompanied by an adenomatoid tumor of the oviduct. Immunohistochemistry is helpful to differentiate these two disease entities. Endometrial clear cell carcinomas express Napsin-A and P16 and are negative for estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor. The presence of endometrial clear cell carcinoma does not affect the expression of CK and calretinin in adenomatoid tumors.

No pulsed radio emission during a bursting phase of a Galactic magnetar

Fast radio bursts (FRBs) are millisecond-duration radio transients of unknown physical origin observed at extragalactic distances^1-3. It has long been speculated that magnetars are the engine powering repeating bursts from FRB sources^4-13, but no convincing evidence has been collected so far¹⁴. Recently, the Galactic magnetar SRG 1935+2154 entered an active phase by emitting intense soft γ-ray bursts¹⁵. One FRB-like event with two peaks (FRB 200428) and a luminosity slightly lower than the faintest extragalactic FRBs was detected from the source, in association with a soft γ-ray/hard-X-ray flare^18-21. Here we report an eight-hour targeted radio observational campaign comprising four sessions and assisted by multi-wavelength (optical and hard-X-ray) data. During the third session, 29 soft-γ-ray repeater (SGR) bursts were detected in γ-ray energies. Throughout the observing period, we detected no single dispersed pulsed emission coincident with the arrivals of SGR bursts, but unfortunately we were not observing when the FRB was detected. The non-detection places a fluence upper limit that is eight orders of magnitude lower than the fluence of FRB 200428. Our results suggest that FRB-SGR burst associations are rare. FRBs may be highly relativistic and geometrically beamed, or FRB-like events associated with SGR bursts may have narrow spectra and characteristic frequencies outside the observed band. It is also possible that the physical conditions required to achieve coherent radiation in SGR bursts are difficult to satisfy, and that only under extreme conditions could an FRB be associated with an SGR burst.

Improved Constraints on Sterile Neutrino Mixing from Disappearance Searches in the MINOS, MINOS+, Daya Bay, and Bugey-3 Experiments

Searches for electron antineutrino, muon neutrino, and muon antineutrino disappearance driven by sterile neutrino mixing have been carried out by the Daya Bay and MINOS+ collaborations. This Letter presents the combined results of these searches, along with exclusion results from the Bugey-3 reactor experiment, framed in a minimally extended four-neutrino scenario. Significantly improved constraints on the θ_{μe} mixing angle are derived that constitute the most constraining limits to date over five orders of magnitude in the mass-squared splitting Δm_{41}^{2}, excluding the 90% C.L. sterile-neutrino parameter space allowed by the LSND and MiniBooNE observations at 90% CL_{s} for Δm_{41}^{2}<13  eV^{2}. Furthermore, the LSND and MiniBooNE 99% C.L. allowed regions are excluded at 99% CL_{s} for Δm_{41}^{2}<1.6 eV^{2}.

[Effects of water-nitrogen combination on dry matter, nitrogen accumulation and yield of winter wheat]

In two growing seasons of wheat (2015-2017), we conducted a field trial with Taishan 28 in Tai'an Academy of Agricultural Science Feicheng experimental base, Tai'an City, Shandong Province. There were four irrigation levels of 150 (A₁), 300 (A₂), 450 (A₃), and 600 (A₄) m³·hm^-2, and four nitrogen application levels of 90 (B₁), 135 (B₂), 180 (B₃), and 225 (B₄) kg·hm^-2. We examined the effects of the combination effects of irrigation and nitrogen on dry matter accumulation and transport, nitrogen accumulation and transport, water consumption and utilization, photosynthetic characteristics, wheat grain yield and yield components of wheat. The results showed that dry matter accumulation, nitrogen accumulation, vegetative organs production, storage and the transportation volume to grains of the dry matter and nitrogen, and dry matter and nitrogen accumulation of grain in the mature stage of wheat all reached the maximum in A₃B₃ treatment, which were significantly different from other treatments. Under all the nitrogen treatments, soil water consumption in the 60-200 cm soil layer was A₃&gt;A₄&gt;A₂&gt;A₁. Water use efficiency and nitrogen use efficiency in A₃B₃ treatment were higher than that under A₃B₄, A₄B₃ and A₄B₄. The net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance and transpiration rate of flag leaves from 7 to 28 days after flowe-ring were all significantly higher in A₃B₃ treatment, which was conducive to the photosynthetic synthesis of carbohydrates in wheat. The interaction effect of water and nitrogen addition significantly affected grain yield and yield components. Wheat yield was the highest in A₃B₃ treatment which reached at 9400 kg·hm^-2. In conclusion, the treatment with irrigation of 450 m³·hm^-2 and nitrogen of 180 kg·hm^-2 could significantly improve dry matter and nitrogen accumulation, and promote transportation volume of the dry matter and nitrogen to grain. Compared with the high water and nitrogen treatment, it could effectively increase water use efficiency and nitrogen use efficiency, enhance photosynthetic capacity of flag leaf, produce more carbohydrate, and increase grain yield.

[Clinical features of asymptomatic or subclinical COVID-19 in children]

OBJECTIVE

To study the clinical features of asymptomatic or subclinical coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in children.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed for the clinical data of 53 children who were confirmed with asymptomatic or subclinical COVID-19, including epidemiological history, clinical typing, co-infection, time to clearance of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) nucleic acid in nasopharyngeal swabs, laboratory examination results, length of hospital stay, and treatment outcome.

RESULTS

The children with asymptomatic or subclinical COVID-19 accounted for 30.5% (53/174) in children with COVID-19 hospitalized in the COVID-19 ward of Wuhan Children's Hospital. All cases occurred with familial aggregation. Among the 53 children, 35 (66%) had asymptomatic infection and 18 (34%) had subclinical infection. Mycoplasma infection was found in 17 children (32%). For the 53 children, the mean time to clearance of SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid in nasopharyngeal swabs was 9±4 days. Most laboratory markers were maintained within the normal range. The mean hospital stay was 11±4 days. Lung CT of 18 children with subclinical COVID-19 showed ground-glass opacities, linear opacities, and patchy opacities, with relatively limited lesions.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a high proportion of children with asymptomatic or subclinical COVID-19 among the children with COVID-19 hospitalized in the COVID-19 ward. The transmission risk of asymptomatic or subclinical COVID-19 should be taken seriously.

[The (18)F-FDG positron emission tomography integrated computed tomography associate with intravoxel incoherent motion in prediction of EGFR expression in lung cancer]

Objective: To discuss the diagnostic value potential of (18)F-FDG PET/CT and intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) in genotype EGFR of lung cancer. Methods: A total of 116 cases proved pathologically pulmonary space occupying lesions (72 males, 44 females; age range was 31-85 years; 37 cases of high differentiation; 53 cases of middle differentiation, 26 cases of low differentiation) were prospectively collected from August 2017 to March 2019 in Henan Provincial People's Hospital. EGFR gene detection was performed in 50 patients (wild type 20 cases, mutant 30 cases). Whole body PET/CT and lung MR-imaging were performed before treatment in all patients. Comparison of PET/CT, IVIM semi-quantitative parameters between positive and negative of EGFR by Student-t test or Mann-Whitney U test. Evaluation diagnostic efficacy of each parameter to EGFR by drawing ROC curves. The optimum diagnostic threshold, specificity, sensitivity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and the diagnostic accuracy were calculated. The diagnostic accuracy of (18)F-FDG PET/CT combined with IVIM was calculated. Results: The quantitative parameters standard intake(SUV), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), true diffusion coefficient (D), pseudo-diffusion coefficient (D(*)), perfusion fraction (f) were 8.7±3.5, (1.59±0.26) ×10(-3) mm(2)/s, (1.04±0.12)×10(-3) mm(2)/s, (3.9±3.0)×10(-2) mm(2)/s, 0.43±0.16 and the above parameters of the wild group were 14.3±3.3, (1.34±0.26)×10(-3) mm(2)/s, (0.89±0.12)×10(-3) mm(2)/s, (3.5±2.5)×10(-2) mm(2)/s, 0.40±0.11, respectively. The difference of quantitative parameters SUV (t=4.196, P=0.0001), ADC (t=2.502, P=0.0018), D (t=3.158, P=0.006) between the EGFR mutant group and the wild group was statistically significant. The difference of quantitative parameters D(*) (t=0.361, P=0.721), f (t=0.627, P=0.536) was not statistically significant. ROC curve was drawn and the area under the curves for diagnosis of EGFR mutations by SUV, ADC, D, D(*), f was 0.880, 0.755, 0.820, 0.575, 0.550. The diagnostic accuracy of these parameters above mentioned was 80.0%, 76.7%, 73.3%, 66.7%, 53.3% respectively. The diagnostic accuracy of SUV combined with ADC, D values was 83.3% and 80.0%. Conclusion: PET/CT and IVIM have certain diagnostic value for EGFR typing of lung cancer gene.

[Epidemiological analysis of the deaths with antiretroviral treatment among adult HIV/AIDS patients in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture from 2005 to 2015]

Objective: To analyze the deaths with antiretroviral treatment among adult HIV/AIDS patients in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture from 2005 to 2015, in order to understand the epidemiological characteristics and to further reduce the mortality rate in Liangshan Prefecture. Methods: The relevant information was collected through the Management Database of Antiretroviral Treatment from the National AIDS Comprehensive Prevention Information System. Results: From 2005 to 2015, a total of 14 219 adult HIV/AIDS patients received antiretroviral treatment and 1 425 death cases were reported during the treatment. The cause of death was mainly AIDS-related diseases (58.9%), and the cumulative mortality rate was 10.02%. Gender, age, the way of infection, duration of antiretroviral therapy, clinical stage when received antiretroviral therapy, and CD(4)(+) T lymphocyte levels were factors for the mortality rate (P<0.001). The mortality increased with older age, higher initiation clinical stage and lower level of CD(4)(+) T lymphocyte. Among the death cases, 82.6% were male, 1 182 (82.9%) were married or cohabited, most aged between 30-39 years old (48.6%). At the initial point of receiving antiretroviral therapy, 49.7% of the cases with CD(4)(+)T lymphocytes levels< 200/μl, 61.2% of the deaths cases were>1 000 copies/ml during the last viral load test, and 16.2% of deaths were ≥500/μl in the last CD(4)(+)T lymphocyte test; 44.5% of deaths were received antiretroviral treatment within one year. Conclusion: Early and timely antiretroviral therapy should be carried out. It is necessary to strengthen the propaganda of antiretroviral therapy and to improve the management quality of follow-up information of antiretroviral therapy case files, and to improve the medication compliance of patients.

Identification of Tiletamine, Zolazepam and Their Metabolites in Drug Facilitated Sexual Assault by GC-QTOF-MS

Objective To identify tiletamine, zolazepam and their metabolites in samples from drug facilitated sexual assault by gas chromatography-quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry （GC-QTOF-MS）. Methods Urine samples of victims were collected, and detected by GC-QTOF-MS after liquid-liquid extraction and concentration. The molecular formula of fragments ions was identified by determination of accurate mass numbers, to detect related substances. Results Tiletamine, zolazepam, three metabolites of tiletamine and two metabolites of zolazepam were identified in urine samples from actual cases. Conclusion GC-QTOF-MS provides abundant and accurate information of fragment ions mass numbers, which can be used for qualitative identification of tiletamine, zolazepam and their metabolites in drug facilitated sexual assault.

Extraction of the ^{235}U and ^{239}Pu Antineutrino Spectra at Daya Bay

This Letter reports the first extraction of individual antineutrino spectra from ^{235}U and ^{239}Pu fission and an improved measurement of the prompt energy spectrum of reactor antineutrinos at Daya Bay. The analysis uses 3.5×10^{6} inverse beta-decay candidates in four near antineutrino detectors in 1958 days. The individual antineutrino spectra of the two dominant isotopes, ^{235}U and ^{239}Pu, are extracted using the evolution of the prompt spectrum as a function of the isotope fission fractions. In the energy window of 4-6 MeV, a 7% (9%) excess of events is observed for the ^{235}U (^{239}Pu) spectrum compared with the normalized Huber-Mueller model prediction. The significance of discrepancy is 4.0σ for ^{235}U spectral shape compared with the Huber-Mueller model prediction. The shape of the measured inverse beta-decay prompt energy spectrum disagrees with the prediction of the Huber-Mueller model at 5.3σ. In the energy range of 4-6 MeV, a maximal local discrepancy of 6.3σ is observed.

[Clinical research of HLA-haploidentical peripheral hematopoietic stem cell transplantation following reduced intensity conditioning regimen with hematological malignancy patients over 50 years old]

目的

分析减低剂量预处理单倍型外周血造血干细胞移植（RIC-haplo-PBSCT）治疗50岁以上恶性血液肿瘤患者的疗效。

方法

18例50岁以上恶性血液肿瘤患者纳入研究，男8例，女10例，中位年龄52（50~66）岁；急性髓系白血病（AML）8例，慢性髓性白血病（CML）2例，骨髓增生异常综合征（MDS）5例，急性淋巴细胞白血病（ALL）2例，急性NK细胞白血病（ANKL）1例；采用FAB+ATG（氟达拉滨+阿糖胞苷+白消安+兔抗人胸腺细胞免疫球蛋白）减低剂量预处理方案，输注供者高剂量非去T细胞外周血造血干细胞（PBSC），应用强化移植物抗宿主病（GVHD）预防方案及感染防控措施。

结果

16例患者在移植后15 d获得完全供者嵌合，其中1例在移植后1个月发生移植排斥，其余2例在移植后15 d为混合嵌合并于移植后1个月发生移植排斥。急性GVHD发生率为61.1%（95%CI 49.6%~72.6%），Ⅱ~Ⅳ度急性GVHD发生率为35.4%（95%CI 21.1%~49.7%），Ⅲ/Ⅳ度急性GVHD发生率为13.8%（95%CI 4.7%~22.9%）。2年慢性GVHD累积发生率为38.2%（95%CI 25.5%~50.9%），未发生广泛型慢性GVHD。中位随访14.5（3~44）个月，2年总生存率、无病生存率分别为72.6%（95%CI 60.1%~85.1%）、63.7%（95%CI 49.2%~78.2%），2年累积复发率为31.2%（95%CI 16.5%~45.9%），2年非复发死亡率为12.5%（95%CI 4.2%~20.8%）。

结论

RIC-haplo-PBSCT治疗50岁以上恶性血液肿瘤患者可获得较好的疗效。

[Relationship between gH genotyping and clinical characteristics of children with congenital cytomegalovirus infection]

Objective: To study the relationship between human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) envelope glycoprotein gene H and clinical features of children with congenital cytomegalovirus infection. Methods: A cohort study was conducted. Newborns diagnosed with congenital cytomegalovirus infection, hospitalized in the Department of Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of the Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, were included from July 2013 to December 2015.HCMV-DNA gH typing in urine, sputum or blood was conducted. Patients then were divided into gH1 group and gH2 group according to gH genotypes. Patients' data during hospitalization in newborn and 3-5 years of follow-up were collected.The relationships between gH genotype and clinical manifestations, laboratory examinations, hearing loss and neurological prognosis were analyzed by chi-square test, t test and non-parametric test. Results: A total of 21 cases were enrolled as congenital HCMV infection and followed-up for 3-5 years. Among them, 14 (67%) were gH1 type and 7 (33%) were gH2 type. No mixed infection was found. In the two groups, there were no significant differences in the ratio of males (9/14 vs. 3/7,P=0.397), or birth weight ((2 609±686) vs. (3 021±451) g, t=-1.436, P=0.167). Gestational age of gH1 group was younger than that of gH2 group (38 (29-40) vs. 39(38-40) weeks, Z=-2.18, P=0.029). Moderate to severe hearing loss detected by neonatal auditory brainstem response were found in 40 ears (20 cases). It was higher in gH1 group than that in gH2 group (4/22 vs.0/18, χ(2)=5.145, P=0.023). In the imaging examination of the nervous system, the Alarcon score of gH1 group was lower than that of gH2 group (0.4±0.3 vs. 1.3±1.1, t=-2.459,P=0.024).No significant statistical difference was found in the probability of motor or language development lag in gH2 group and gH1 group (4/7 vs.4/14, P=0.346). Conclusions: Compared with gH2 infection, gH1 infection in children has a younger gestational age. The major type of hearing loss in neonatal period is gH1 infection. Children with gH2 congenital infections are more likely to suffer from nervous systems damage.

Twelve formyl phloroglucinol meroterpenoids from the leaves of Eucalyptus robusta

Twelve formyl phloroglucinol meroterpenoids (FPMs) were isolated from the leaves of Eucalyptus robusta Smith. Their structures were elucidated via spectroscopic data analysis, the circular dichroism (CD) exciton chirality method, Rh₂(OCOCF₃)₄-induced CD experiments, and application of the Snatzke chirality rules. Eucalrobusones Q, S, and X are the first FPMs that have been identified in which the C-7' of phloroglucinol is linked to the C-15 of cadinane, the C-4 of cubebane, and the C-8 of menthane, respectively. (+)-Eucalrobusone X exhibited the most potent antifungal ability against Candida albicans with a MIC₅₀ value of 10.78 μg/mL, and eucalrobusone U exhibited the greatest anti-C. glabrata activity with MIC₅₀ value of 1.53 μg/mL.

Measurement of the Electron Antineutrino Oscillation with 1958 Days of Operation at Daya Bay

We report a measurement of electron antineutrino oscillation from the Daya Bay Reactor Neutrino Experiment with nearly 4 million reactor ν[over ¯]_{e} inverse β decay candidates observed over 1958 days of data collection. The installation of a flash analog-to-digital converter readout system and a special calibration campaign using different source enclosures reduce uncertainties in the absolute energy calibration to less than 0.5% for visible energies larger than 2 MeV. The uncertainty in the cosmogenic ^{9}Li and ^{8}He background is reduced from 45% to 30% in the near detectors. A detailed investigation of the spent nuclear fuel history improves its uncertainty from 100% to 30%. Analysis of the relative ν[over ¯]_{e} rates and energy spectra among detectors yields sin^{2}2θ_{13}=0.0856±0.0029 and Δm_{32}^{2}=(2.471_{-0.070}^{+0.068})×10^{-3}  eV^{2} assuming the normal hierarchy, and Δm_{32}^{2}=-(2.575_{-0.070}^{+0.068})×10^{-3}  eV^{2} assuming the inverted hierarchy.

Effects of Mo contents on the microstructure, properties and cytocompatibility of the microwave sintered porous Ti-Mo alloys

The porous Ti-Mo alloys were prepared by microwave sintering, and the effects of Mo contents on the pore structure, phase composition, compressive strength, elastic modulus, bending strength, corrosion resistance and cytocompatibility of porous Ti-Mo alloys were investigated. The results show that the porous Ti-Mo alloys are composed of α phase and β phase, and the volume fraction of β phase increases with increasing the Mo contents. The amount of Kirkendall pores distributed over the porous Ti-Mo alloys skeleton increases with increasing the Mo contents, which greatly increases the porosities and pore sizes of the porous Ti-Mo alloys. Correspondingly, all of the compressive strength, elastic modulus and bending strength of the porous Ti-Mo alloys decrease with increasing the Mo contents. The porous Ti-Mo alloys present excellent corrosion resistance in the Hank's solution due to the oxidation film of TiO₂, MoO₂ and MoO₃ naturally formed on the surface, and the Mo contents have no obvious effect on the corrosion resistance. The cell viabilities of the porous Ti-Mo alloys are higher than 94%, indicating the porous Ti-Mo alloys possess favorable cytocompatibility. Moreover, the porous Ti-Mo alloys are beneficial to the spread, proliferation and differentiation of osteoblast-like cells, and the Mo contents have no significant effect on the cytocompatibility of the porous Ti-Mo alloys.

Tacrolimus Reverses UVB Irradiation-Induced Epidermal Langerhans Cell Reduction by Inhibiting TNF-α Secretion in Keratinocytes via Regulation of NF-κB/p65

Background: Topical calcineurin inhibitors including tacrolimus and pimecrolimus are used in the treatment of many inflammatory skin diseases mainly via blocking T-cell proliferation. Our previous studies found that pimecrolimus 1% cream could reverse high-dose ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation-induced epidermal Langerhans cell (LC) reduction via inhibition of LC migration. We conducted this study to investigate the effects of topical tacrolimus 0.03% ointment on high-dose UVB-irradiated human epidermal LCs. Methods: Twenty fresh human foreskin tissues were randomly divided into four groups as follows: Control, Tacrolimus (0.03%), UVB (180 mJ/cm2), and UVB (180 mJ/cm2) + Tacrolimus (0.03%). Four time points were set as follows: 0, 18, 24, and 48 h. We collected culture medium and tissues at each time point. The percentage of CD1a+ cells in the medium was detected by means of flow cytometry. Each tissue was prepared for immunohistochemistry, real-time quantitative PCR, and western blot. HaCaT cells were cultured and divided into four groups: Control, Tacrolimus (1 μg/ml), UVB (30 mJ/cm2), and UVB (30 mJ/cm2) + Tacrolimus (1 μg/ml). The cells were incubated for 24 h and prepared for real-time quantitative PCR and western blot. Results: Topical tacrolimus significantly reversed high-dose UVB irradiation-induced epidermal LC reduction and CD1a+ cell increment in culture medium. Tacrolimus significantly inhibited UVB irradiation-induced tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB)/p65 mRNA and protein expression in HaCaT cells. Tacrolimus also significantly inhibited high-dose UVB irradiation-induced TNF-α expression in cultured tissues. Finally, TNF-α antagonist (recombinant human TNF-α receptor II: IgG Fc fusion protein) could significantly reverse UVB irradiation-induced epidermal LC reduction. Conclusion: Topical tacrolimus 0.03% could reverse UVB irradiation-induced epidermal LC reduction by inhibiting TNF-α secretion in keratinocytes via regulation of NF-κB/p65.

Microporous Luminescent Metal-Organic Framework for a Sensitive and Selective Fluorescence Sensing of Toxic Mycotoxin in Moldy Sugarcane

Food contamination by toxic mycotoxins not only causes a considerable loss in economy, but importantly poses a huge threat to human health through accidental ingestion. Hence, it is an ongoing and imperative need to develop a convenient, cost-effective method for the detection of the mycotoxin-infected agricultural commodities. To this end, we herein fabricated a novel metal-organic framework-derived composite material that displays a strong solid-state emission in the visible region, by attaching a frequently used fluorescent label, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), via guest adsorption. Significantly, owing to the inherent pH-responsive conformational changes of FITC, the resulting composite material provides, to the best of our knowledge, the first example of the sensitive and selective fluorescence sensing toward 3-nitropropionic acid, which, as a major naturally occurring mycotoxin in moldy sugarcane, has been closely linked to poisoning episodes in human beings and animals.

Thymidine kinase 1 combined with CEA, CYFRA21-1 and NSE improved its diagnostic value for lung cancer

AIMS

Thymidine kinase 1 (TK1) is a tumor biomarker in human malignancies. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic efficiency of this marker for lung cancer using the combined analysis of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), cytokeratin-19 fragment (CYFRA21-1), neuron specific enolase (NSE) and TK1.

MAIN METHODS

From 2013 to 2014, 147 patients with lung cancer and 228 patients with lung benign diseases who were admitted to our hospital were reviewed. Peripheral blood samples were collected for the detection of TK1, CEA, CYFRA21-1 and NSE. The diagnostic value of each marker was analyzed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and logistic regression equations.

KEY FINDINGS

The serum levels of TK1, CEA, CYFRA21-1 and NSE were significantly higher than those in patients with lung benign diseases (all P<0.05). The TK1 concentration was dependent on TNM stage (P=0.005). The ROC curve analyses showed that the diagnostic value of TK1 combined with CEA, CYFRA21-1 and NSE in lung cancer was significantly higher than that of each biomarker alone (all P<0.0001). In addition, TK1 combined with CEA, CYFRA21-1, or NSE could also improve the diagnosis of the squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and small cell lung cancer subtypes, respectively.

SIGNIFICANCE

The combined detection of TK1 and the other three markers significantly improved the diagnosis of lung cancer. Furthermore, the detection of TK1 combined with that of CYFRA21-1, CEA or NSE increased the diagnostic value of TK1 for lung squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and SCLC, respectively.

MicroRNA-34a modulates the Notch signaling pathway in mice with congenital heart disease and its role in heart development

The objective of the study was to elucidate the mechanism by which microRNA-34a (miR-34a) influences heart development and participates in the pathogenesis of congenital heart disease (CHD) by targeting NOTCH-1 through the Notch signaling pathway. Forty D7 pregnant mice were recruited for the purposes of the study and served as the CHD (n=20, successfully established as CHD model) and normal (n=20) groups. The positive expression of the NOTCH-1 protein was evaluated by means of immunohistochemistry. Embryonic endocardial cells (ECCs) were assigned into the normal, blank, negative control (NC), miR-34a mimics, miR-34a inhibitors, miR-34a inhibitors+siRNA-NOTCH-1, siRNA-NOTCH-1, miR-34a mimics+NOTCH-1 OE and miR-34a mimics+crispr/cas9 (mutant NOTCH-1) groups. The expressions of miR-34a, NOTCH-1, Jagged1, Hes1, Hey2 and Csx in cardiac tissues and ECCs were determined by both RT-qPCR and western blotting methods. MTT assay and flow cytometry were conducted for cell proliferation and apoptosis measurement. A dual luciferase reporter assay was applied to demonstrate that NOTCH-1 was the target gene of miR-34a. In comparison to the normal group, the expressions of miR-34a, Jagged1, Hes1 and Hey2 displayed up-regulated levels, while the expressions of NOTCH-1 and Csx were down-regulated in the CHD group. Compared with the blank and NC groups, the miR-34a mimics and siRNA-NOTCH-1 groups displayed reduced expressions of NOTCH-1 and Csx as well as a decreased proliferation rate, higher miR-34a, Jagged1, Hes1 and Hey2 expressions and an increased rate of apoptosis; while an reverse trend was observed in the miR-34a inhibitors group. The expressions of MiR-34a recorded increased levels in the miR-34a mimics+NOTCH-1 OE and miR-34a mimics+crispr/cas9 (mutant NOTCH-1) groups, however no changes in the expressions of NOTCH-1, Jagged1, Hes1, Hey2, Csx, as well as cell proliferation and apoptosis were observed when compared to the blank and NC groups. The results of our study demonstrated that miR-34a increases the risk of CHD through its downregulation of NOTCH-1 by modulating the Notch signaling pathway.

[Therapeutic effect of combined use of FGF1-loaded nano-liposomes and ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction technique on treating rats with experimental diabetic cardiomyopathy]

Objective: The therapeutic effect of acid fibroblast growth factor 1(FGF1) on rats with diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) was evaluated by using nano-liposomes combined with ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction technique (UTMD). Methods: The FGF1-loaded nano-liposomes were prepared by water-in-water emulsion method combined with lyophilization technique.TypeⅠdiabetes model was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 70 mg/kg) in 60 male SD rats.Sixteen weeks later, diabetic rats were randomly divided into: placebo group (saline treatment), FGF1 group, FGF1-loaded nano-liposomes group, and FGF1-loaded nano-liposomes plus UTMD group (n=15 each). After two weeks of intervention followed by 2 weeks intervention stop, all rats underwent cardiac catheterization, and the left ventricular end-systolic pressure (LVESP), left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) and the maximal increase/decrease rate of left ventricular pressure (LV±dp/dtmax) were measured.Then, the rats were sacrificed and myocardial tissue were obtained for Masson trichrome staining, TUNEL apoptotic staining and CD31 immunohistochemistry staining to quantify myocardial collagen fraction (CVF), cardiac myocyte apoptotic index and myocardial microvascular density (MVD). Results: (1)Scanning electron microscope results revealed good morphology and FGF1 encapsulation efficiency (84.3±2.8)% with high stability and dispensability of FGF1 loaded nano-liposomes.(2)The hemodynamic evaluation showed that LVESP, LV + dp/dt(max) and LV -dp/dt(max) were all significantly higher, while LVEDP was significantly lower in the FGF1-loaded nano-liposome+ UTMD group than in DCM group, FGF1 solution group, and FGF1 nano-liposome group(all P<0.05). (3)The Masson trichrome staining demonstrated that CVF was significantly higher in all DCM groups than in control group and was significantly lower in the FGF1-loaded nano-liposome+ UTMD group than in DCM group, FGF1 solution group, and FGF1 nano-liposome group (all P<0.05). (4)The CD31 immunohistochemical staining results showed that MVD was significantly lower in all DCM groups than in control group and was significantly higher in the FGF1-loaded nano-liposome+ UTMD group than in DCM group, FGF1 solution group, and FGF1 nano-liposome group (all P<0.05). (5)The TUNEL results showed that apoptotic index was significantly higher in all DCM groups than in control group and was significantly lower in the FGF1-loaded nano-liposome + UTMD group than in DCM group, FGF1 solution group, and FGF1 nano-liposome group (all P<0.05). Conclusion: FGF1 nano-liposomes combining with UTMD technique can significantly improve cardiac functions and attenuate myocardial CVF and apoptosis and enhance myocardial MVD in DCM rats.

[Porphyromonas gingivalis FimA genotype distribution among periodontitis patients with type 2 diabetes]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the distribution differences of Porphyromonas gingivalis(Pg) FimA genotypes between periodontitis patients with and without type 2 diabetes for a better understanding of the relationship between diabetes and periodontitis.

METHODS

Questionnaires and detailed periodontal examinations(6 sites per tooth) were conducted in 80 subjects with moderate-severe chronic periodontitis in the Department of Periodontology, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology. There were 40 type 2 diabetic patients and 40 systemicly healthy patients enrolled respectively. The periodontal parameters including plaque index(PLI), probing depth(PD), bleeding index(BI), attachment loss(AL) by 6 sites per tooth and numbers of missing teeth were also recorded. Pooled subgingival plaque samples using pocket method with Whatman No3 filterpaper were collectedat each of the 6 sites from one incisor and one molar. Pg and its FimA genotype distributions were investigated using DNA extrctedfrom plaque samples by PCR.

RESULTS

Diabetic patients had a significantly higher score of PLI[2.35(0.58) vs 1.64(0.76),P<0.05] , while rest of periodontal indexes observed(PD, BI and AL) did not differ significantly between diabetic patients and systemicly healthy controls(P>0.05). The detection rate of Pg did not show statistically significant difference between the two groups(50% vs 60%,P>0.05). However, the proportion of FimA Ⅱ was significantly higher in diabetic group than systemicly healthy group(80% vs 42%,P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Type 2 diabetic patients were prone to be infected by highly virulent strains of Pg: FimA ⅡPg.

Evolution of the Reactor Antineutrino Flux and Spectrum at Daya Bay

The Daya Bay experiment has observed correlations between reactor core fuel evolution and changes in the reactor antineutrino flux and energy spectrum. Four antineutrino detectors in two experimental halls were used to identify 2.2 million inverse beta decays (IBDs) over 1230 days spanning multiple fuel cycles for each of six 2.9 GW_{th} reactor cores at the Daya Bay and Ling Ao nuclear power plants. Using detector data spanning effective ^{239}Pu fission fractions F_{239} from 0.25 to 0.35, Daya Bay measures an average IBD yield σ[over ¯]_{f} of (5.90±0.13)×10^{-43}  cm^{2}/fission and a fuel-dependent variation in the IBD yield, dσ_{f}/dF_{239}, of (-1.86±0.18)×10^{-43}  cm^{2}/fission. This observation rejects the hypothesis of a constant antineutrino flux as a function of the ^{239}Pu fission fraction at 10 standard deviations. The variation in IBD yield is found to be energy dependent, rejecting the hypothesis of a constant antineutrino energy spectrum at 5.1 standard deviations. While measurements of the evolution in the IBD spectrum show general agreement with predictions from recent reactor models, the measured evolution in total IBD yield disagrees with recent predictions at 3.1σ. This discrepancy indicates that an overall deficit in the measured flux with respect to predictions does not result from equal fractional deficits from the primary fission isotopes ^{235}U, ^{239}Pu, ^{238}U, and ^{241}Pu. Based on measured IBD yield variations, yields of (6.17±0.17) and (4.27±0.26)×10^{-43}  cm^{2}/fission have been determined for the two dominant fission parent isotopes ^{235}U and ^{239}Pu. A 7.8% discrepancy between the observed and predicted ^{235}U yields suggests that this isotope may be the primary contributor to the reactor antineutrino anomaly.

Individual and combined inhibition of phenol and thiocyanate on microbial activity of partial nitritation

This study evaluated the individual and interactive effect of phenol and thiocyanate (SCN^-) on partial nitritation (PN) activity using batch test and response surface methodology. The IC₅₀ of phenol and SCN^- on PN sludge were 5.6 and 351 mg L^-1, respectively. The PN sludge was insensitive to phenol and SCN^- at levels lower than 1.77 and 43.3 mg L^-1, respectively. A regression model equation was developed and validated to predict the relative specific respiration rate (RSRR) of PN sludge exposed to different phenol and SCN^- concentrations. In the range of independent variables, the most severe inhibition was observed with a valley value (17%) for RSRR, when the phenol and SCN^- concentrations were 4.08 and 198 mg L^-1, respectively. An isobole plot was used to judge the combined toxicity of phenol and SCN^-, and the joint inhibitory effect was variable depending on the composition and concentration of the toxic components. Furthermore, the toxic compounds showed independent effects, which is the most common type of combined toxicity.

[Correlation between the CT features and malignancy risk of small (≤5 cm) gastric stromal tumors]

Objective: To evaluate the correlation between computed tomography (CT) features and malignancy risk category of small (≤5 cm) gastric stromal tumors (GST), in order to provide an image reference for preoperative assessment and intraoperative pathological diagnosis. Methods: Eighty-three patients with surgically and pathologically proven GST (≤5 cm) between January 2011 and November 2015 were recruited, and their clinical, pathological and CT data were retrospectively analyzed. According to the pathological results and malignancy risk category, the patients were divided into 2 groups, the benign biological behavior group (very low and low risk) and malignant biological behavior group (intermediate and high risk). The clinical, pathological and CT imaging findings of the two groups were analyzed. Based on the tumor diameter, the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was applied to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity and the best cut-off point for distinguishing the malignancy risk between the two groups. Results: The lobulation and ulceration of the tumors presented statistically significant difference for the malignancy risk between the two groups (χ(2)=6.273 and 4.163, respectively; all P<0.05), but there was no significant difference in the sex, clinical symptoms, serum ferritin, tumor site, growth pattern, cystis degeneration and calcification (all P>0.05). No statistically significant differences were detected for the tumor CT value, arterial CT value, venous CT value, degrees of enhancement in arterial phase (DEAP), enhancement in portal venous phase (DEPP), and patient's age for distinguishing the malignancy risk between the two groups (all P>0.05). On the other hand, significant differences were found in the maximum diameter (Dmax) of tumor and the minimum diameter (Dmin) of tumor (t=-3.256 and -3.466, respectively; all P<0.05). When the cut-off point of Dmax was 1.6 cm, the area under the ROC curve, sensitivity and specificity were 0.704, 92.3% and 75.4%, respectively. When the cut-off point of Dmin was 1.5 cm, the area under the ROC curve, sensitivity and specificity were 0.713, 88.5% and 71.9%, respectively. Conclusion: CT features of the GST (≤5 cm) may predict, before surgery, the malignancy risk of small gastric stromal tumors, and provide the an image reference for preoperative assessment and intraoperative pathological diagnosis of the disease.

[Value of CT imaging in the differentiation of gastric leiomyomas from gastric stromal tumors]

Objective: To explore the application value of CT imaging in differentiating gastric stromal tumors (GST) from gastric leiomyomas (GLMs). Methods: CT images of patients with GST (n=65) or GLMs (n=13, maximum diameter of tumor ≤5 cm) proved by surgery and pathology were retrospectively analyzed. The tumor size, location, contour, growth pattern, degree and pattern of enhancement, calcification, necrosis, surface ulceration, lymph nodes, and patient clinical data were evaluated by two independent reviewers. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were employed to assess the measurement and calculation parameters in the differentiation of GST and GLMs. Results: Between the GST and GLMs groups, there was no statistically significant difference in the contour, growth pattern, calcification, surface ulceration, and patient's sex (P>0.05). CT values of in plain scans, degree of enhancement in arterial phase (DE1), size, location and pattern of enhancement were found to be different between GST and GLMs (P<0.05). When the cutoff value of the maximum tumor diameter was 3.2 cm, the area under ROC curve, sensitivity and specificity were 0.707, 92.3%(12/13) and 60.6%(40/66), respectively. When the cutoff value of age was 59 years, the area under ROC curve, sensitivity and specificity were 0.773, 92.3% (12/13) and 46.2% (30/65), respectively. Taking the cutoff value of 10.9 HU as the degree of enhancement in arterial phase (DE1), the area under ROC curve, sensitivity and specificity were 0.774, 84.6% (11/13) and 77.3% (51/66), respectively. Using a cutoff value of 30.3 HU, the sensitivity, specificity, and the area under ROC curve were 84.6% (11/13), 65.2% (43/66), and 0.731, respectively. Conclusions: CT examination in addition to clinical data can be very helpful for the differential diagnosis of GLMs from GSTs in maximum diameter ≤5 cm.

Ultraviolet B Inhibits IL-17A/TNF-α-Stimulated Activation of Human Dermal Fibroblasts by Decreasing the Expression of IL-17RA and IL-17RC on Fibroblasts

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease, and a mixed Th1/Th17 cytokine environment plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Dermal fibroblasts secrete certain cytokines such as IL-6, IL-8, and CXCL-1, contributing to the hyperproliferative state of the epidermis in psoriatic skin. Ultraviolet B (UVB) phototherapy is one of the most commonly used treatments in psoriasis but the influence of UVB on human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) in psoriasis treatment is not completely understood.

Objectives

We conducted this study to mimic a psoriatic microenvironment in order to investigate and illustrate the combined effects of UVB, IL-17A, and TNF-α on HDFs.

Methods

The cultured HDFs were obtained from foreskin samples and divided into four groups, as follows: control; IL-17A/TNF-α; UVB; and IL-17A/TNF-α + UVB. Cultured HDFs were irradiated with 30 mJ/cm² UVB followed by addition of IL-17A/TNF-α and incubated for 24 h. We used real-time quantitative PCR, Western blot, ELISA analysis, and flow cytometry to examine gene and protein expression of related pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines and receptors.

Results

HDFs produced significant IL-6, IL-8, and CXCL-1 in response to IL-17A/TNF-α stimulation and UVB irradiation but UVB irradiation inhibited IL-17A/TNF-α-induced IL-6, IL-8, and CXCL-1 expression and downregulated the expression of IL-17RA and IL-17RC at both gene and protein levels. Additionally, UVB irradiation induced significant TGF-β1 protein secretion and expression of Smad3 mRNA and protein by HDFs. TGF-β1 significantly induced the expression of Smad3 mRNA and downregulated the IL-17RA and IL-17RC expression on HDFs.

Conclusion

UVB irradiation inhibits IL-17A/TNF-α-induced IL-6, IL-8, and CXCL-1 production in HDFs by decreasing the expression of IL-17RA and IL-17RC on fibroblasts through TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling pathway, which reveals a new mechanism of the therapeutic action of UVB on psoriasis.

Selective gas adsorption and fluorescence sensing response of a Zn(ii) metal–organic framework constructed by a mixed-ligand strategy

By means of a mixed-ligand strategy, a novel metal–organic framework was obtained, which remarkably exhibits bi-functional properties, i.e., selective gas adsorption of CO₂ over CH₄ and fluorescence sensing response for nitrobenzene.

Systemic abnormalities of psoriatic patients: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease related to the metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and other comorbidities. However, so far there has been no specific research concerning systemic abnormalities in psoriatic patients.

OBJECTIVE

A retrospective study was conducted focusing on the detailed systemic abnormalities in psoriatic patients.

METHODS

Psoriatic inpatients data was collected from July 2009 to September 2015. The inclusion criteria were first-time hospitalization and without administration of systemic drug therapy or exposure to phototherapy for psoriasis for at least 1 month. Detailed systemic indexes were mainly evaluated.

RESULTS

The abnormality rates of blood routine examination, urine examination, blood biochemical examination and chest X-ray of 43 psoriatic patients were significantly higher than those of 44 non-psoriasis controls, and psoriasis patients significantly had higher absolute values of leukocytes and neutrophils, and significantly lower values of lymphocytes. Compared with psoriasis vulgaris, erythrodermic psoriasis had significantly higher abnormality rates of blood biochemical examination and serum electrolyte analysis. Erythrodermic psoriasis had significantly higher absolute values of blood leukocytes, neutrophils, and lower serum calcium compared with those of psoriasis vulgaris. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio of controls was significantly lower than that of psoriatic patients, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio of erythrodermic psoriasis was significantly higher in comparison with psoriasis vulgaris.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first report in relation to a detailed assessment of systemic abnormalities in psoriatic patients prior to onset of systemic treatment. The systemic condition of psoriatic patients should be observed by clinicians before systemic therapy.

Limits on Active to Sterile Neutrino Oscillations from Disappearance Searches in the MINOS, Daya Bay, and Bugey-3 Experiments

Searches for a light sterile neutrino have been performed independently by the MINOS and the Daya Bay experiments using the muon (anti)neutrino and electron antineutrino disappearance channels, respectively. In this Letter, results from both experiments are combined with those from the Bugey-3 reactor neutrino experiment to constrain oscillations into light sterile neutrinos. The three experiments are sensitive to complementary regions of parameter space, enabling the combined analysis to probe regions allowed by the Liquid Scintillator Neutrino Detector (LSND) and MiniBooNE experiments in a minimally extended four-neutrino flavor framework. Stringent limits on sin^{2}2θ_{μe} are set over 6 orders of magnitude in the sterile mass-squared splitting Δm_{41}^{2}. The sterile-neutrino mixing phase space allowed by the LSND and MiniBooNE experiments is excluded for Δm_{41}^{2}<0.8  eV^{2} at 95%  CL_{s}.