IL-36 Regulates Neutrophil Chemotaxis and Bone Loss at the Oral Barrier

Tissue-specific mechanisms regulate neutrophil immunity at the oral barrier, which plays a key role in periodontitis. Although it has been proposed that fibroblasts emit a powerful neutrophil chemotactic signal, how this chemotactic signal is driven has not been clear. The objective of this study was to investigate the site-specific regulatory mechanisms by which fibroblasts drive powerful neutrophil chemotactic signals within the oral barrier, with particular emphasis on the role of the IL-36 family. The present study found that IL-36γ, agonist of IL-36R, could promote neutrophil chemotaxis via fibroblast. Single-cell RNA sequencing data disclosed that IL36G is primarily expressed in human and mouse gingival epithelial cells and mouse neutrophils. Notably, there was a substantial increase in IL-36γ levels during periodontitis. In vitro experiments demonstrated that IL-36γ specifically activates gingival fibroblasts, leading to chemotaxis of neutrophils. In vivo experiments revealed that IL-36Ra inhibited the infiltration of neutrophils and bone resorption, while IL-36γ promoted their progression in the ligature-induced periodontitis mouse model. In summary, these data elucidate the function of the site-enriched IL-36γ in regulating neutrophil immunity and bone resorption at the oral barrier. These findings provide new insights into the tissue-specific pathophysiology of periodontitis and offer a promising avenue for prevention and treatment through targeted intervention of the IL-36 family.

Pneumonitis After Concurrent Chemoradiation and Immune Checkpoint Inhibition in Patients with Locally Advanced Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

AIMS

Pneumonitis is a common and potentially deadly complication of combined chemoradiation and immune checkpoint inhibition (CRT-ICI) in patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (LA-NSCLC). In this study we sought to identify the risk factors for pneumonitis with CRT-ICI therapy in LA-NSCLC cases and determine its impact on survival.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review of 140 patients with LA-NSCLC who underwent curative-intent CRT-ICI with durvalumab between 2018 and 2021. Pneumonitis was diagnosed by a multidisciplinary team of clinical experts. We used multivariable cause-specific hazard models to identify risk factors associated with grade ≥2 pneumonitis. We constructed multivariable Cox proportional hazard models to investigate the impact of pneumonitis on all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

The median age of the cohort was 67 years; most patients were current or former smokers (86%). The cumulative incidence of grade ≥2 pneumonitis was 23%. Among survivors, 25/28 patients had persistent parenchymal scarring. In multivariable analyses, the mean lung dose (hazard ratio 1.14 per Gy, 95% confidence interval 1.03-1.25) and interstitial lung disease (hazard ratio 3.8, 95% confidence interval 1.3-11.0) increased the risk for pneumonitis. In adjusted models, grade ≥2 pneumonitis (hazard ratio 2.5, 95% confidence interval 1.0-6.2, P = 0.049) and high-grade (≥3) pneumonitis (hazard ratio 8.3, 95% confidence interval 3.0-23.0, P < 0.001) were associated with higher all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Risk factors for pneumonitis in LA-NSCLC patients undergoing CRT-ICI include the mean radiation dose to the lung and pre-treatment interstitial lung disease. Although most cases are not fatal, pneumonitis in this setting is associated with markedly increased mortality.

Expression of YAP suppresses cell proliferation and elevates the sensitivity of chemotherapy in retinoblastoma cells through lipid-peroxidation induced ferroptosis

BACKGROUND

Retinoblastoma (RB) is a retinal cancer most commonly occurred in young children. Cisplatin and etoposide had been confirmed as chemotherapy drugs in the treatment of RB, even though the phenomenon of chemotherapeutic resistance has been occurring in clinical treatment frequently. RB has been reported to be a tumor with reduced expression of yes-associated protein (YAP). However, the role of YAP protein and its correlation with the chemotherapy effect in RB still remains unknown.

METHODS

Here we used human RB cell lines Y79 and RB3823 to construct YAP over-expression cell lines for exploring the specific role of YAP. In vitro, a series of techniques and methods were used to identify the biological role of YAP in RB, such as Agilent Seahorse assay, lipid peroxidation assay, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) measurement, flow cytometry apoptosis assay, and other basic experimental techniques, among others.

RESULTS

The cell growth and cytology experimental results found YAP can inhibit the proliferation of RB cells and promote their apoptosis (Y79 32.71% vs. 3.75%; RB3823 40.32% vs. 6.73%). The mitochondrial fuel flex test, lipid peroxide and ROS measurement confirmed that YAP over-expression could promote mitochondrial fatty-acids β-oxidation and lipid peroxidation in RB cells. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis for the expression of lipid peroxidation related factors imply that YAP over-expression caused ferroptosis in RB cell lines. In addition, YAP transcription specific activator PY-60 (10 µM) further improved the sensitivity of cisplatin/etoposide.

CONCLUSIONS

Our research results found the expression of YAP inhibits cell proliferation and promoted lipid peroxidation induced ferroptosis in RB. Interestingly, the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation shows an increased fatty acid dependency and decreased glucose dependency. As a result, this phenomenon improved the sensitivity of RB to cisplatin/etoposide chemotherapy in vitro. Our finding provides a potential therapeutic target for RB chemotherapy.

[Expression changes of NaV channel subunits correlate with developmental maturation of electrophysiological characteristics of rat cerebellar Purkinje neurons]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the variations in the expression of voltage-gated sodium (Na_v) channel subunits during development of rat cerebellar Purkinje neurons and their correlation with maturation of electrophysiological characteristics of the neurons.

METHODS

We observed the changes in the expression levels of Na_V1.1, 1.2, 1.3 and 1.6 during the development of Purkinje neurons using immunohistochemistry in neonatal (5-7 days after birth), juvenile (12-14 days), adolescent (21-24 days), and adult (42-60 days) SD rats. Using whole-cell patch-clamp technique, we recorded the spontaneous electrical activity of the neurons in ex vivo brain slices of rats of different ages to analyze the changes of electrophysiological characteristics of these neurons during development.

RESULTS

The expression of Na_V subunits in rat cerebellar Purkinje neurons showed significant variations during development. Na_V1.1 subunit was highly expressed throughout the developmental stages and increased progressively with age (P < 0.05). Na_V1.2 expression was not detected in the neurons in any of the developmental stages (P > 0.05). The expression level of Na_V1.3 decreased with development and became undetectable after adolescence (P < 0.05). Na_V1.6 expression was not detected during infancy, but increased with further development (P < 0.05). Na_V1.1 and Na_V1.3 were mainly expressed in the early stages of development. With the maturation of the rats, Na_V1.3 expression disappeared and Na_V1.6 expression increased in the neurons. Na_V1.1 and Na_V1.6 were mainly expressed after adolescence. The total Na_V protein level increased gradually with development (P < 0.05) and tended to stabilize after adolescence. The spontaneous frequency and excitability of the Purkinje neurons increased gradually with development and reached the mature levels in adolescence. The developmental expression of Na_V subunits was positively correlated with discharge frequency (r=0.9942, P < 0.05) and negatively correlated with the excitatory threshold of the neurons (r=0.9891, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The changes in the expression levels of Na_V subunits are correlated with the maturation of high frequency electrophysiological properties of the neurons, suggesting thatmature Na_V subunit expressions is the basis of maturation of electrophysiological characteristics of the neurons.

Context-aware deep network for coronary artery stenosis classification in coronary CT angiography

Automatic coronary artery stenosis grading plays an important role in the diagnosis of coronary artery disease. Due to the difficulty of learning the informative features from varying grades of stenosis, it is still a challenging task to identify coronary artery stenosis from coronary CT angiography (CCTA). In this paper, we propose a context-aware deep network (CADN) for coronary artery stenosis classification. The proposed method integrates 3D CNN with Transformer to improve the feature representation of coronary artery stenosis in CCTA. We evaluate the proposed method on a multicenter dataset (APOLLO study with NCT05509010). Experimental results show that our proposed method can achieve the accuracy of 0.84, 0.83, and 0.86 for stenosis diagnosis on the lesion, artery, and patient levels, respectively.

[Assessment of the diagnostic value and prognosis of different detection markers in endocervical adenocarcinoma]

Objective: To study the diagnostic value of different detection markers in histological categories of endocervical adenocarcinoma (ECA), and their assessment of patient prognosis. Methods: A retrospective study of 54 patients with ECA in the Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences from 2005-2010 were performed. The cases of ECA were classified into two categories, namely human papillomavirus-associated adenocarcinoma (HPVA) and non-human papillomavirus-associated adenocarcinoma (NHPVA), based on the 2018 international endocervical adenocarcinoma criteria and classification (IECC). To detect HR-HPV DNA and HR-HPV E6/E7 mRNA in all patients, we used whole tissue section PCR (WTS-PCR) and HPV E6/E7 mRNA in situ hybridization (ISH) techniques, respectively. Additionally, we performed Laser microdissection PCR (LCM-PCR) on 15 randomly selected HR-HPV DNA-positive cases to confirm the accuracy of the above two assays in identifying ECA lesions. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to analyze the efficacy of markers to identify HPVA and NHPVA. Univariate and multifactorial Cox proportional risk model regression analyses were performed for factors influencing ECA patients' prognoses. Results: Of the 54 patients with ECA, 30 were HPVA and 24 were NHPVA. A total of 96.7% (29/30) of HPVA patients were positive for HR-HPV DNA and 63.3% (19/30) for HR-HPV E6/E7 mRNA, and 33.3% (8/24) of NHPVA patients were positive for HR-HPV DNA and HR-HPV E6/E7 mRNA was not detected (0/24), and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.001). LCM-PCR showed that five patients were positive for HR-HPV DNA in the area of glandular epithelial lesions and others were negative, which was in good agreement with the E6/E7 mRNA ISH assay (Kappa=0.842, P=0.001). Analysis of the ROC results showed that the AUC of HR-HPV DNA, HR-HPV E6/E7 mRNA, and p16 to identify HPVA and NHPVA were 0.817, 0.817, and 0.692, respectively, with sensitivities of 96.7%, 63.3%, and 80.0% and specificities of 66.7%, 100.0%, and 58.3%, respectively. HR-HPV DNA identified HPVA and NHPVA with higher AUC than p16 (P=0.044). The difference in survival rates between HR-HPV DNA (WTS-PCR assay) positive and negative patients was not statistically significant (P=0.156), while the difference in survival rates between HR-HPV E6/E7 mRNA positive and negative patients, and p16 positive and negative patients were statistically significant (both P<0.05). Multifactorial Cox regression analysis showed that International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology (FIGO) staging (HR=19.875, 95% CI: 1.526-258.833) and parametrial involvement (HR=14.032, 95% CI: 1.281-153.761) were independent factors influencing the prognosis of patients with ECA. Conclusions: HR-HPV E6/E7 mRNA is more reflective of HPV infection in ECA tissue. The efficacy of HR-HPV E6/E7 mRNA and HR-HPV DNA (WTS-PCR assay) in identifying HPVA and NHPVA is similar, with higher sensitivity of HR-HPV DNA and higher specificity of HR-HPV E6/E7 mRNA. HR-HPV DNA is more effective than p16 in identifying HPVA and NHPVA. HPV E6/E7 mRNA and p16 positive ECA patients have better survival rates than negative.

GC-MS and UHPLC-QTOFMS-assisted identification of the differential metabolites and metabolic pathways in key tissues of Pogostemon cablin

Pogostemon cablin is an important aromatic medicinal herb widely used in the pharmaceutical and perfume industries. However, our understanding of the phytochemical compounds and metabolites within P. cablin remains limited. To our knowledge, no integrated studies have hitherto been conducted on the metabolites of the aerial parts of P. cablin. In this study, twenty-three volatile compounds from the aerial parts of P. cablin were identified by GC-MS, predominantly sesquiterpenes. Quantitative analysis showed the highest level of patchouli alcohol in leaves (24.89 mg/g), which was 9.12 and 6.69-fold higher than in stems and flowers. UHPLC-QTOFMS was used to analyze the non-volatile compounds of leaf, stem and flower tissues. The differences in metabolites between flower and leaf tissues were the largest. Based on 112, 77 and 83 differential metabolites between flower-leaf, flower-stem and leaf-stem, three tissue-specific biomarkers of metabolites were identified, and the differential metabolites were enriched in several KEGG pathways. Furthermore, labeling differential metabolites in the primary and secondary metabolic pathways showed that flowers accumulated more lipids and amino acids, including proline, lysine and tryptophan; the leaves accumulated higher levels of terpenoids, vitamins and flavonoids, and stems contained higher levels of carbohydrate compounds. Based on the role of acetyl coenzyme A, the distribution and possible exchange mechanism of metabolites in leaves, stems and flowers of P. cablin were mapped for the first time, laying the groundwork for future research on the metabolites in P. cablin and their regulatory role.

Machine learning accurately quantifies epicardial adipose tissue from non-contrast CT images in coronary artery disease

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Other. Main funding source(s): Industry Alignment Fund – Pre-positioning Programme

Background

Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is the visceral fat deposit within the pericardium that surrounds the heart and the coronary arteries. EAT volume measured from non-contrast CT (NCCT) has been demonstrated to be significantly associated with adverse cardiovascular risk,1 particularly in patients with coronary artery disease.2 However, routine measurement of EAT volume is still challenging in clinical practice, as it is a tedious manual process and prone to human error.

Purpose

We aimed to develop a fully automated AI toolkit (i.e., AI EAT) for the quantification of EAT from routine NCCT scans and assess its performance in reference to clinical ground truth.

Methods

This is a multicenter study which performs CT scans in 5000 Asian Admixture patients (APOLLO study NCT05509010). In the current stage of this study, NCCT data analysis were conducted in 551 patients with 26,037 images. AI EAT was developed via a novel deep learning framework using an ensemble region-based UNet. The region-based UNet uses 2 component UNet models to perform segmentation of pericardium at the apex region and non-apex region (middle and basal). EAT volume was obtained by automated thresholding of the voxels (-190 to -30 Hounsfield Unit) within the pericardium (Figure 1). The network was trained in 501 patients with 23,712 NCCT images and tested in 50 patients with 2,325 NCCT images. The performance of AI EAT was evaluated with respect to clinical ground truth using Dice similarity coefficient (DSC), Pearson correlation, and Bland-Altman analysis.

Results

The AI EAT quantification process took less than 10 seconds per subject, compared with 20-30 minutes for expert readers. Compared to clinical ground truth, our AI EAT achieved a DSC of 0.96±0.01 and 0.91±0.02 for pericardium and EAT segmentations, respectively. There was strong agreement between the AI EAT and clinical ground truth in deriving the EAT volume (r=0.99, P&lt;0.001) with minimal error of 7±5%.

Conclusion

End-to-end deep learning system accurately quantifies epicardial adipose tissue in standard NCCT images without manual segmentation.

The efficacy and adverse effects of nivolumab and lenvatinib in the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma

This study intends to investigate nivolumab's efficacy and adverse effects in combination with lenvatinib in treating advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). For this purpose, ninety-two patients with unresectable advanced HCC admitted were enrolled and were divided into the control group (N=46) and the observation group (N=46) according to the random number table. The control group was treated with lenvatinib while the observation group was treated with nivolumab combined with lenvatinib. The efficacy, adverse effects, liver function, completion rate, interruption and discontinuation of treatment, drug reduction, serum tumor markers, and immune function were compared between the two groups. Also, changes in the expression of some genes that regulate the cell cycle (P53, RB1, Cyclin-D1, c-fos, and N-ras) were investigated in the development of this cancer. According to the results, ORR and DCR  (45.65%, 78.26%) in the observation group were higher than those  (23.91%, 54.35%) in the control group (P<0.05); The incidence of adverse reactions in the observation group was slightly higher than that of the control group, but the difference was not significant (P>0.05); The rate of completion, interruption, discontinuation of treatment and drug reduction did not differ significantly between two groups (P>0.05); After treatment, the serum ALT, AST, TBIL, and GGT levels decreased and were lower in observation group than in control group (P<0.05); The serum tumor markers AFP, ENO1, GPC3, CEA levels decreased in both groups after treatment, and were lower in the observation group than in control group (P<0.05);  CD3, CD4, CD8, and NK levels were improved in the observation group and worsened in the control group, and CD3, CD4, and NK levels were higher in the observation group and lower in the control group after treatment (P<0.05). All in all, nivolumab combined with lenvatinib for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma can improve tumor control, reduce tumor load, and improve liver function and immune function. Common adverse reactions include fatigue, loss of appetite, elevated blood pressure, hand-foot skin reaction, diarrhea, and rash, which should be controlled during treatment.

[Effect of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation on minimal residual disease in patients with multiple myeloma]

Objective: To evaluate the effect of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (ASCT) on minimal residual disease (MRD) in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). Method: From August 2018 to August 2021, 92 patients newly diagnosed with MM who had received either the bortezomib combined with cyclophosphamide and dexamethasone (VCD) or the bortezomib, lenalidomide and dexamethasone (VRD) induction regimens followed by sequential ASCT were assessed for overall survival (OS) and the MRD negative rate. The differences in efficacy at 100 days after transplantation were assessed according to factors, including age, risk stratification, target organ damage, and pre-transplant regimen, etc. Results: Among the 92 patients, there were 45 males and 47 females, with a median age of 57.3 (35-67) years. Fifty-seven patients received the VCD regimen, and 35 received VRD as induction regimen. Forty-three patients received busulphan combined with cyclophosphamide and etoposide (BCV), and 49 patients received high-dose melphan (HDM) regimen as pre-transplantation treatment. After transplantation, the total complete remission (CR) rate of 92 patients increased from 23.9% (22/92) to 58.7% (54/92), and the MRD negative rate increased from 4.4% (4/92) to 33.7% (31/92), and the differences were statistically significant (all P<0.05). After transplantation, the MRD negative rates of patients with PR, VGPR and ≥CR before transplantation were 17.6% (6/34), 33.3% (12/36) and 59.1% (13/22), respectively (P=0.006). The CR rates of patients with or without plasmacytoma at initial diagnosis were 36.4% (4/11) and 65.4% (53/81), respectively (P=0.029), and the MRD negative rates were 18.2% (2/11) and 39.5% (32/81), respectively (P=0.037), and the differences were statistically significant. The MRD negative rates in high-risk patients and standard-risk group were 30.5% (12/28) and 42.9% (18/59), respectively (P=0.258). For patients who achieved efficacy above VGPR before transplantation, the MRD negative rates after transplantation in VCD-induced group and VRD group were 29% (9/31) and 59.3% (16/27), respectively (P=0.033), and in BCV group and HDM group were 24% (6/25) and 57.6% (19/33), respectively (P=0.016), the differences between the groups were both statistically significant. Conclusion: ASCT can overcome the adverse factors such as high-risk cytogenetic abnormalities, and significantly improve the CR rate and MRD negative rate of MM patients. However, the benefit for patients with plasmacytoma at initial diagnosis is not as good as that of patients without.

β-catenin correlates with the progression of colon cancers and berberine inhibits the proliferation of colon cancer cells by regulating the β-catenin signaling pathway

INTRODUCTION

Berberine was one of the active components in Chinese herb and exerted tumor suppressive role in cancer progression, but the exact antitumor mechanism is still not clearly clarified. In the present study, bioinformatics analysis was performed on COAD patients from TCGA, HPA database, UALCAN and GEPIA 2 platform. We also explored the role of berberine on progression of human colon cancers in vitro and in vivo and clarified weather the antitumor effects of berberine was mediated by Wnt/beta-catenin pathway.

METHODS

Cell viability was determined by MTT assay. The protein levels were tested by western blotting and the distribution of β-catenin was observed by confocal microscope.

RESULTS

The results showed the levels of CTNNB1 mRNA was increased in colon cancer patients than normal controls. The diagnostic value of CTNNB1 was AUC = 0.882 (CI:0.854-0.911) with sensitivity of 1.000 and specificity of 0.777. The promoter methylation level of CTNNB1 in COAD patients was significantly decreased. Moreover, univariate analysis and multivariate analysis results showed the expression of CTNNB1 in COAD patients was associated with T stage (p = 0.010), pathological stage (p = 0.025) and perineural invasion (p = 0.025). Furthermore, the in vitro assay results showed β-catenin signaling was highly activated in human colon cancer cells and berberine inhibited the cell viability of colon cancer cells in vitro and in vivo in a dose-and time-dependent manner. Moreover, berberine induced the translocation of β-catenin to cytoplasm from nucleus.

CONCLUSION

The levels of CTNNB1 mRNA was increased in colon cancer patients than normal controls. Berberine inhibited the proliferation of colon cancer cells by regulating the beta-catenin signaling pathway.

Recurrent Gallbladder Carcinoma With pMMR/MSS Achieved a Complete Response Following Camrelizumab Combined With Apatinib: A Case Report

Gallbladder carcinoma (GBC) with proficient mismatch repair (pMMR)/microsatellite stable (MSS) is associated with limited response to programmed death-1 (PD-1) inhibitor monotherapy. Limited data of PD-1 blockade combined with anti-angiogenic therapy in GBC are reported. One recurrent GBC patient with pMMR/MSS was treated with camrelizumab plus apatinib. After 4 cycles of combination therapy, the patient achieved a durable complete response with manageable toxicity. The next-generation sequencing and immunohistochemistry analysis showed that tumor mutation burden (TMB) was 7.26 mutants/Mb and PD-L1 expression was 10% (tumor proportion score) and 20% (immune proportion score). This case suggests that camrelizumab in combination with apatinib may be an effective treatment option for GBC patients with pMMR/MSS status, who have moderate expression of TMB and PD-L1. Additionally, TMB and PD-L1 expression may serve as potential biomarkers for predicting PD-1 inhibitor response of GBC. Furthermore, this needs to be verified in future studies.

Effects of Atomoxetine Hydrochloride on Regulation of Lifespan in Drosophila Model

Nootropics (smart drugs) are used by students to enhance cognitive performance which have been reported times in recent years. However, some of the nootropics are central nervous system stimulants which are very likely to lead to addiction or complications such as vomiting and dizziness. Are there nootropics that can improve learning behavior while having potential positive effect on health? Here, we reported that Atomoxetine (ATX) has sex-specific effect on prolonging the life span of female Drosophila melanogaster. Further study indicated that ATX enhanced female resistance to heat stress and their vertical climbing ability, but it did decrease the number of eggs laid. ATX increased food-intake and sleep time both of females and males, and significantly reduced the 24h spontaneous activity of females and males. Our results present the sex dimorphic effect of ATX on life span regulation in Drosophila, and support further research on the beneficial role of ATX and the mechanisms in other animal models.

Hepatitis B virus infection does not affect the clinical outcome of anti-programmed death receptor-1 therapy in advanced solid malignancies: Real-world evidence from a retrospective study using propensity score matching

This study aimed to investigate the impact of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection on the outcome of patients with advanced solid malignancies treated with programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) inhibitors.We retrospectively included patients treated with PD-1 inhibitors between August 2018 and April 2020. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to match the characteristics of the HBV and non-HBV groups. Objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) were compared between HBV and non-HBV groups using χ2 or Fisher exact tests. Kaplan-Meier and log-rank tests were used to analyze overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS).A total of 120 patients, including 43 (35.8%) with HBV and 77 (64.2%) without HBV, were enrolled. Cases of HBV reactivation were not observed. In the entire study population, ORR and DCR did not significantly differ between both groups. After PSM, the study population comprised 39 patients, 15 with and 24 without HBV. The HBV group had an ORR of 55.6%, whereas the ORR in the non-HBV group was 36.8% (P = .35). Similarly, the DCR was 77.8% in the HBV group, as compared to 68.4% in the non-HBV group (P  = .61). Additionally, HBV infection did not significantly affect OS (P  = .54) and PFS (P  = .64) in the unmatched cohort. Moreover, statistically significant differences regarding OS (P  = .15) and PFS (P  = .23) were also not detected after PSM.In conclusion, the HBV infection status did not impact the therapy response or prognosis of patients treated with PD-1 inhibitors. Further prospective studies are needed to corroborate these findings.

Brain and Retinal Abnormalities in the 5xFAD Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease at Early Stages

One of the major challenges in treating Alzheimer's disease (AD) is its early diagnosis. Increasing data from clinical and animal research indicate that the retina may facilitate an early diagnosis of AD. However, a previous study on the 5xFAD (a fast AD model), showing retinal changes before those in the brain, has been questioned because of the involvement of the retinal degeneration allele Pde6b^rd1. Here, we tested in parallel, at 4 and 6 months of age, both the retinal and the brain structure and function in a 5xFAD mouse line that carries no mutation of rd1. In the three tested regions of the 5xFAD brain (hippocampus, visual cortex, and olfactory bulb), the Aβ plaques were more numerous than in wild-type (WT) littermates already at 4 months, but deterioration in the cognitive behavioral test and long-term potentiation (LTP) lagged behind, showing significant deterioration only at 6 months. Similarly in the retina, structural changes preceded functional decay. At 4 months, the retina was generally normal except for a thicker outer nuclear layer in the middle region than WT. At 6 months, the visual behavior (as seen by an optomotor test) was clearly impaired. While the full-field and pattern electroretinogram (ERG) responses were relatively normal, the light responses of the retinal ganglion cells (measured with multielectrode-array recording) were decreased. Structurally, the retina became abnormally thick with few more Aβ plaques and activated glia cells. In conclusion, the timeline of the degenerative processes in the retina and the brain is similar, supporting the use of non-invasive methods to test the retinal structure and function to reflect changes in the brain for early AD diagnosis.

Safety of PD-1/PD-L1 Inhibitors Combined With Palliative Radiotherapy and Anti-Angiogenic Therapy in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background

Previous studies have explored cancer immunotherapy with radiotherapy or anti-angiogenic therapy, but no trials have reported a triple therapy approach. This study aimed to investigate safety and clinical outcome of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors combined with palliative radiotherapy and targeted angiogenesis therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) of Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage C.

Methods

Consecutive patients (n=16) treated with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors combined with radiotherapy and anti-angiogenic therapy in a bi-institutional cohort between July 2017 and December 2020 were retrospectively included. Radiotherapy was conducted within 14 days of the first administration of immunotherapy. The primary endpoint was treatment-related adverse event (TRAE).

Results

The median follow-up was 383 days. Fifteen patients (93.8%) experienced at least 1 TRAE. The most common TRAEs of any grade were rash (25%), diarrhea (25%), aspartate aminotransferase increase (18.8%), alanine transaminase increase (18.8%), decreased appetite (18.8%), and fatigue (18.8%). Grade 3/4 TRAEs occurred in 4 patients (25%) and finally led to treatment interruption. No patient death was attributed to treatment. No specific events were responsible for the addition of radiotherapy. Six patients showed partial response, 7 showed stable disease, and 2 showed progressive disease. The objective response rate and disease control rate were 40.0% (95% CI 16.3%-67.7%) and 86.7% (95% CI 59.5%-98.3%), respectively. Moreover, the median progression-free survival was 140 days. Patients had a median overall survival of 637 days, and the estimated rates of survival at 6 and 12 months were 92.3% and 75.5%, respectively.

Conclusion

PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors combined with palliative radiotherapy and anti-angiogenic therapy appear to be safe, with no unexpected adverse events. Additional studies exploring the clinical benefit are warranted.

ORAOV1-B Promotes OSCC Metastasis via the NF-κB-TNFα Loop

Metastasis, a powerful prognostic indicator of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), is chiefly responsible for poor cancer outcomes. Despite an increasing number of studies examining the mechanisms underlying poor outcomes, the development of potent strategies is hindered by insufficient characterization of the crucial regulators. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have recently been gaining interest as significant modulators of OSCC metastasis; however, the detailed mechanisms underlying lncRNA-mediated OSCC metastasis remain relatively uncharacterized. Here, we identified a novel alternative splice variant of oral cancer overexpressed 1 (ORAOV1), named as ORAOV1-B, which was subsequently validated as an lncRNA and correlated with OSCC lymph node metastasis; significantly increased invasion and migration were observed in ORAOV1-B-overexpressing OSCC cells. RNA pulldown and mass spectrometry identified Hsp90 as a direct target of ORAOV1-B, and cDNA microarrays suggested TNFα as a potential downstream target of ORAOV1-B. ORAOV1-B was shown to directly bind to and stabilize Hsp90, which maintains the function of client proteins, receptor-interaction protein, and IκB kinase beta, thus activating the NF-κB pathway and inducing TNFα. Additionally, TNFα reciprocally enhanced p-NF-κB-p65 and the downstream epithelial-mesenchymal transition. ORAOV1-B effects were reversed by a TNFα inhibitor, demonstrating that TNFα is essential for ORAOV1-B-regulated metastatic ability. Consistent epithelial-mesenchymal transition in the ORAOV1-B group was demonstrated via an orthotopic model. In the metastatic model, ORAOV1-B significantly contributed to OSCC-related lung metastasis. In summary, the novel splice variant ORAOV1-B is an lncRNA, which significantly potentiates OSCC invasion and metastasis by binding to Hsp90 and activating the NF-κB-TNFα loop. These findings demonstrate the versatile role of ORAOV1 family members and the significance of genes located within 11q13 in promoting OSCC. ORAOV1-B might serve as an attractive OSCC metastasis intervention target.

Adverse cardiovascular ageing among older women and cardiometabolic ageing

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): National Medical Research Council (NMRC)

Background

Despite longer life expectancies, women may experience reduced ‘health-span’ (period of life spent in good health) due to accumulation of risks over their longer life spans. Metabolic factors present in diet and lifestyle may provide modifiable solutions to tackle burdens of cardiovascular (CV) ageing in women.

Objective

We aim to study gender differences in CV structure and function among community older adults without clinical CV disease, as well as metabolic perturbations in their study samples.

Methods

We examined a prospective cohort study of older adults, obtaining their medical history, serum sampling, echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging on a single day visit. Echo E/A ratio was computed as a ratio of peak velocity flow in early diastole E (m/s) to peak velocity flow in late diastole by atrial contraction A (m/s) mitral inflow velocities. Longitudinal strain (ε) at any time point (t) in the cardiac cycle from end-diastole (time 0) was calculated as: ε(t)=(L(t)-L0)/L0, obtaining left atrial (LA) reservoir strain (εs), conduit strain (εe) and booster strain (εa) by CMR. Metabolomics profiling was performed by standard mass spectrometry techniques.

Results

Among n = 492 (49.6%, n = 244 women, mean age 73 ± 4 years) participants, women had lower prevalence of hypertension (52% vs 58%, p &lt; 0.0001), smoking (4% vs 35%, p &lt; 0.0001), but higher prevalence of dyslipidemia (52% vs 50%, p = 0.001) compared to men. Women had lower left ventricular mass index (69 vs 71 g/m2, p &lt; 0.0001) compared to men. However, women had more adverse CV function, such as lower E/A ratio (0.78 vs 0.85, p &lt; 0.0001), lower LA booster (εa) (16.5 vs 17.8, p = 0.027) and lower LA reservoir (εs) strain rate (1.5 vs 1.6, p = 0.012), compared to men. Amino acids such as alanine, arginine, aspartate, citrulline, glycine, phenylalanine and valine were similar between gender. However, women had higher levels of tyrosine (76 vs 68 μM, p = 0.015). On multivariate adjustment, apart from age, tyrosine was independently associated with E/A ratio (β=0.002, 95%CI 0.00-0.004, p = 0.044) and εs (β=0.004, 95%CI 0.00-0.009, p = 0.048) among women. 

Conclusion

Utilizing conventional and sensitive CV imaging, women appeared to have more adverse CV functions with ageing. As a branched chain amino acid linked to future risk of CV disease, tyrosine may be linked to adverse CV function. Factors that contribute to these cardiometabolic profiles, such as menopause, diet or lifestyle warrant further research.

Oral toxicity to high level sodium fluoride causes impairment of autophagy

Autophagy is a highly conserved intracellular digestion process that degrades damaged proteins and organelles but the biological roles of autophagy in pathological aspects of oral tissues remain largely unknown. We sought to elucidate the function of autophagy, especially its interplay with apoptosis and oxidative stress, in the oral toxicity induced by exposure to 5 mM sodium fluoride (NaF). Human cementoblasts (HCEM-2) in culture were exposed to 5 mM NaF for 5 min, after which cell viability and cell apoptosis were assessed using the MTS assay and an Annexin V-FITC/PI apoptosis detection kit, respectively. Quantitative RT-PCR and Western blotting were performed to characterize the expression levels of markers for autophagy, apoptosis, and oxidative stress. Senescence-resistant (SAMR1) mice were exposed to 5 mM NaF in their drinking water from 12 to 58 weeks. Micro-computed tomography was used to measure changes in their alveolar bone while immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining was used to evaluate protein expression levels. HCEM-2 cells exposed to 5 mM NaF had decreased levels of autophagy, as shown by reduced expression levels of ATG5, Beclin-1 and LC3-II, elicited apoptosis, which in turn induced oxidative stress and inflammation, as manifested by elevated levels of Bax, cleaved caspase-3, SOD1 and phospho NF-κB. Treatment of mice with 5 mM NaF resulted in histological abnormalities in periodontal tissues, induced excessive oxidative stress and apoptosis, and reduced autophagy. Micro-computed tomography analysis demonstrated that 5 mM NaF caused a decrease in bone areas of mice compared with controls. Exposure to 5 mM NaF induced RANKL (receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand) and cathepsin K expression in periodontal tissues, while ATG5 and Beclin-1 expression was abrogated by 5 mM NaF. Taken together, our findings suggest that 5 mM NaF elicits oral toxicity that contributes to excessive apoptosis, oxidative stress, and defective autophagy, which aggravates periodontal tissue damage.

Do distribution and expansion of exotic invasive Asteraceae plants relate to leaf construction cost in a man-made wetland?

Exotic species especially Asteraceae plants severely invade wetlands in Shenzhen Bay, an important part of the coast wetland in Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Bay Area, China. However, the reasons causing their expansion are unclear. The leaf traits and expansion indices of six invasive Asteraceae plants from the Overseas Chinese Town (OCT) wetland were studied and the results showed that nearly 45% of the total plant species (31 out of 69 species) in the OCT wetland, belonging to 15 families and 27 genera, were exotic invasive species. The expansion indices of six Asteraceae species negatively correlated with their leaf construction cost based on mass (CCM), caloric values and carbon concentration, but their relations with ash content were positive. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that CCM was the most important factor affecting the expansion of an exotic species, indicating CCM may be an important reason causing the expansion of exotic species in coastal wetlands.

Mechanical stimuli for left ventricular growth during pressure overload

BACKGROUND

The mechanical stimulus (i.e. stress or stretch) for growth occurring in the pressure-overloaded left ventricle (LV) is not exactly known.

OBJECTIVE

To address this issue, we investigate the correlation between local ventricular growth (indexed by local wall thickness) and the local acute changes in mechanical stimuli after aortic banding.

METHODS

LV geometric data were extracted from 3D echo measurements at baseline and 2 weeks in the aortic banding swine model (n = 4). We developed and calibrated animal-specific finite element (FE) model of LV mechanics against pressure and volume waveforms measured at baseline. After the simulation of the acute effects of pressure-overload, the local changes of maximum, mean and minimum myocardial stretches and stresses in three orthogonal material directions (i.e., fiber, sheet and sheet-normal) over a cardiac cycle were quantified. Correlation between mechanical quantities and the corresponding measured local changes in wall thickness was quantified using the Pearson correlation number (PCN) and Spearman rank correlation number (SCN).

RESULTS

At 2 weeks after banding, the average septum thickness decreased from 10.6 ± 2.92mm to 9.49 ± 2.02mm, whereas the LV free-wall thickness increased from 8.69 ± 1.64mm to 9.4 ± 1.22mm. The FE results show strong correlation of growth with the changes in maximum fiber stress (PCN = 0.5471, SCN = 0.5111) and changes in the mean sheet-normal stress (PCN= 0.5266, SCN = 0.5256). Myocardial stretches, however, do not have good correlation with growth.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that fiber stress is the mechanical stimuli for LV growth in pressure-overload.

[Study on the state of macrophage infiltration in the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease induced by high-fat diet in mice]

Objective: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common chronic liver disease. Macrophages are an important cell-mediated immune response in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. However, the dynamic changes of intrahepatic infiltration during the pathogenesis of NAFLD remains unclear. Therefore, this study intends to investigate the changes and their correlations with morphological indicators, hepatic histopathological index, and intrahepatic macrophage infiltration in the progression of NAFLD induced by high-fat diet in mice. Methods: C57BL/6J mice were fed with 42% high-fat diet, and the morphological data and liver tissue were obtained at 1, 2, 4, 8 and 12 months, respectively. Hepatic histopathological characteristics were evaluated by HE stain. Immunohistochemical staining was used to detect the number of F4/80 positive cells in liver tissue at different stages to evaluate the degree of intrahepatic macrophage infiltration. Results: (1) The body weight, liver weight, and liver weight/body weight of mice fed with high-fat diet had gradually increased. (2) HE staining results showed that mice fed with high-fat diet had mainly developed simple steatosis within 1 to 2 months. In addition, a balloon-like hepatocyte degeneration and intralobular inflammation had begun to appear at 4 months, indicating that non-alcoholic steatohepatitis had started, and can be seen very clearly at 8 to 12 months. (3) Immunohistochemical staining results suggested that in the simple steatosis stage of NAFLD, the intrahepatic macrophage infiltration was not significant. However, after NAFLD activity score > 3, a large amount of infiltration had appeared and cluster-like changes in the later stage. (4) Correlation analysis results indicated that the degree of macrophage infiltration was not related to the mice morphological indicators (body weight, liver weight and liver weight/body weight) and pathological indicators (percentage of hepatic steatotic change, and degree of hepatocyte ballooning and intralobular inflammation), but was significantly related to the NAFLD activity score. Conclusion: High-fat diet can successfully induce NAFLD in mice and progress to the stage of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. At the same time, high-fat diet can induce macrophage infiltration in liver tissue of mice and the changing trend of infiltration is related to NAFLD activity score.

[Atypical renal cysts: a clinicopathological and molecular analysis of six cases]

Objective: To investigate the clinicopathological characteristics and molecular genetics of atypical renal cysts. Methods: Six cases of atypical renal cysts were collected from Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Hangzhou, China, between February 2014 and February 2019. The clinicopathological characteristics and disease progression were analyzed. The 3p deletion and trisomy of chromosomes 7 and 17 were detected using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Results: All of the 6 patients were male, aged 43-63 years (median: 52 years). Preoperative Bosniak classification showed 4 cases of grade Ⅱ, 1 case of grade Ⅰ and 1 of grade Ⅲ. Histologically, atypical renal cysts appeared as unilocular or multilocular cysts, lined by multilayered flattened or cuboidal-shaped clear or eosinophilic cells. They often showed short papillary projections, and lacked solid or nodular growth of the lesional cells within the wall or septa of the cysts. Histologically, these cysts could be classified into three categories: acquired cystic disease-associated renal cell carcinoma (ACKD-RCC)-like (3 cases), clear cell type (2 cases), and eosinophilic papillary type (1 case). Two cases of ACKD-RCC-like atypical renal cysts were accompanied by clear cell renal cell carcinomas. On immunohistochemical staining, ACKD-RCC-like atypical renal cysts were focally CK7+/AMACR+/CD57+, the clear-cell type atypical renal cysts were CK7+/CAⅨ+, and eosinophilic papillary type atypical renal cysts were CK7+/AMACR+. FISH analyses showed that one case of ACKD-RCC-like atypical renal cysts had trisomy 17 and one case of clear cell type had 3p deletion, while no signal abnormality was detected in the other cases. The six patients were followed up for 13 to 70 months (median: 27 months), and no evidence of renal cell carcinoma was noted. Conclusion: Atypical renal cysts are a group of lesions that are heterogeneous in clinical, histological and immunophenotypical and molecular genetic features. FISH analyses suggest that a subset of the cases may be precursors of currently known renal cell carcinomas. Extensively sampling and careful observation of the histological characteristics of the cyst wall are important for distinguishing atypical renal cysts from extensively cystic renal cell carcinomas.

miR-92a-3p promotes the proliferation and invasion of gastric cancer cells by targeting KLF2

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have pivotal roles in the initiation and progression of gastric cancer (GC), and miR-92a-3p has been proved to act as an oncogene in multiple malignancies. However, the molecular mechanisms by which miR-92a-3p contributes to GC remain unclear. The differentially expressed miRNAs were screened by GEO dataset, and the association of miR-92a-3p expression with clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis in patients with GC was analyzed by TCGA dataset. The target genes of miR-92a-3p were identified by bioinformatic analysis, and their interaction was confirmed by luciferase reporter assay. MTT, EdU and Transwell assays were conducted to determine the role of miR-92a-3p in GC cells. As a result, it was found that the expression levels of miR-92a-3p were increased in GC tissues and were associated with tumor size, lymph node infiltration and distant metastasis, acting as an independent prognostic factor of poor survival in patients with GC. Restored expression of miR-92a-3p facilitated cell proliferation, DNA synthesis and cell invasion, but its inhibitor reversed these effects. KLF2 was further identified as a direct target of miR-92a-3p, indicating a negative correlation with miR-92a-3p expression and harboring a favorable prognosis in GC. In addition, KLF2 repressed cell proliferation and invasion and attenuated the tumor-promoting effects of miR-92a-3p in GC cells. Altogether, our findings demonstrated that miR-92a-3p promoted the proliferation and invasion of GC cells by targeting KLF2.

Repurposing glycated hemoglobin as a possible marker of myocardial ageing in asymptomatic older adults

Background

The adverse consequences of diabetes mellitus on cardiovascular health is well-established. However, few studies have studied the impact of diabetes on ageing. In our previous investigations, we identified distinct patterns of myocardial ageing among older adults otherwise asymptomatic for clinical cardiovascular disease. In this analysis, we hypothesize that glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) may be differentially associated with these distinct signatures of myocardial ageing, thereby providing greater precision towards future preventative trials.

Methods

We performed extensive cardiovascular examinations on a cohort of asymptomatic aged community adults. Transthoracic echocardiography measured left ventricular structure and function. LV filling pressure was measured as the ratio between early mitral inflow velocity and mitral annular early diastolic velocity. Longitudinal left atrial (LA) strain comprising reservoir strain (ɛs), conduit strain (ɛe) and booster strain (ɛa) and their corresponding peak strain rates (SRs, SRe, SRa) were measured using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) feature tracking technique. Blood sampling for biomarkers were performed simultaneously with cardiovascular examinations.

Results

Among n=515 community adults in sinus rhythm and without cardiovascular disease [mean age 73±4 years, 255 (50%) females], 116 (23%) had diabetes. Age (73 vs 73 years) and heart rate (72 vs 75 beats per minute) were similar between diabetic and non-diabetic older adults. Diabetic older adults are mostly male (59% vs 48%, p=0.046), had larger body mass indices (24 vs 23 kg/m2, p=0.027), and greater burdens of hypertension (81% vs 41%, p&lt;0.0001) and dyslipidemia (79% vs 43%, p&lt;0.0001), compared to non-diabetic older adults. Diabetics had worse LV myocardial relaxation [(ratio of peak velocity flow in early diastole E (m/s) to peak velocity flow in late diastole by atrial contraction A (m/s), 0.8±0.2 vs 0.9±0.3, p=0.031), worse LV filling pressures (10.9±3.1 vs 10.1±3.3, p=0.022), reductions in LA global strain (−33±17 vs −28±9.7, p=0.016), LA conduit strain ɛe (12±4.3 vs 14±4.1, p=0.045), increases in SRe (−1.2±0.4 vs −1.3±0.5, p=0.042) and reductions in SRe: SRa ratio (0.5±0.2 vs 0.7±0.3, p=0.0059) compared to non-diabetics. Based on multivariate analysis, HbA1c was independently associated with LV myocardial relaxation (β=−0.08 (−0.1, −0.03), p=0.002), LA conduit strain (β=−0.9, (−1.6, −0.1), p=0.025), LA conduit strain rate (β=0.1, (0.04, 0.2), p=0.005), strongly associated with LA global strain (β=3.0, (0.9, 5.1), p=0.006), but not associated with LV filling pressure (β=0.5 (−0.04, 1.0), p=NS).

Conclusion

Our detailed examinations revealed distinct associations between glycated hemoglobin and myocardial functions that additionally varied in magnitude. As a contemporary biomarker, glycated hemoglobin may be useful for stratifying risks associated with myocardial ageing, particularly in ageing-related left atrial myopathies.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): National Medical Research Council of Singapore; Singhealth Foundation

Gastric cancer nodal tumour-stroma ratios influence prognosis

This study showed that nodal tumour-stroma ratio (NTSR) is an independent prognostic factor for overall and disease-free survival of patients with gastric cancer. Both relative stroma-rich primary tumour-stroma ratio (PTSR) and NTSR were independent negative prognostic factors for overall survival in gastric cancer. This study supports assessment of tumour-stroma ratio in the routine pathological diagnosis of gastric cancer. validated in node-positive disease.

[Application of penile index in the diagnosis and therapeutic evaluation of concealed penis in children]

Objective: To explore the significance of penile index in the diagnosis of concealed penis and the evaluation of therapeutic efficacy. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 221 children with phimosis and 113 children with concealed penis aged 6-10, all of whom had undergone circumcision or phalloplasty respectively in Shanghai Children's Medical Center from January 2014 to December 2017. Penile index was measured before and after surgery. The values of phimosis and concealed penis were tested by group t test. Self -control test was performed for values of concealed penis before and after operations. Results: Penile index was 0.78±0.08 in children with phimosis. It was 0.23±0.10 in concealed penis before operation and changed to 0.84±0.11 postoperatively. In children with phimosis and concealed penile, the difference of penile index was statistically significant (P<0.001). The difference of penile index before and after operation was statistically significant (P<0.001) in children with concealed penis. Conclusion: Penile index is an effective index to evaluate the degree of penis exposure.

The value of four imaging modalities to distinguish malignant from benign solitary pulmonary nodules: a study based on 73 cohorts incorporating 7956 individuals

BACKGROUND

Solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs) frequently bother oncologists. The differentiation of malignant from benign nodules with non-invasive approach remains a tough challenge. This study was designed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of dynamic computed tomography (CT), dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), fluorine 18 fluorodeoxyglucose (¹⁸F-FDG) positron emission tomography (PET), and technetium 99 m (^99mTc) depreotide single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) for SPNs.

METHODS

Electronic databases of MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were searched to identify relevant trials. The primary evaluation index of diagnostic accuracy was areas under the summary receiver-operating characteristic (SROC) curve. The results were analyzed utilizing Stata 12.0 statistical software.

RESULTS

Seventy-three trials incorporating 7956 individuals were recruited. Sensitivities, specificities, positive likelihood ratios, negative likelihood ratios, diagnostic score, diagnostic odds ratios, and areas under the SROC curve with 95% confidence intervals were, respectively, 0.92 (0.89-0.95), 0.64 (0.54-0.74), 2.60 (1.98-3.42), 0.12 (0.08-0.17), 3.10 (2.62-3.59), 22.24 (13.67-36.17), and 0.91 (0.88-0.93) for CT; 0.92 (0.86-0.95), 0.85 (0.77-0.90), 6.01 (3.90-9.24), 0.10 (0.06-0.17), 4.12 (3.41-4.82), 61.39 (30.41-123.93), and 0.94 (0.92-0.96) for MRI; 0.90 (0.86-0.93), 0.73 (0.65-0.79), 3.28 (2.56-4.20), 0.14 (0.10-0.19), 3.16 (2.69-3.64), 23.68 (14.74-38.05), and 0.90 (0.87-0.92) for ¹⁸F-FDG PET; and 0.93 (0.88-0.96), 0.70 (0.56-0.81), 3.12 (2.03-4.81), 0.10 (0.06-0.17), 3.43 (2.63-4.22), 30.74 (13.84-68.27), and 0.93 (0.91-0.95) for ^99mTc-depreotide SPECT.

CONCLUSION

The dynamic MRI, dynamic CT, ¹⁸F-FDG PET, and ^99mTc-depreotide SPECT were favorable non-invasive approaches to distinguish malignant SPNs from benign. Moreover, from the viewpoint of cost-effectiveness and avoiding radiation, the dynamic MRI was recommendable for SPNs.

AB1067 CASE OR FAMILY?FROM 2 CHINESE FCAS3 CHILDREN WITH PLCG2 MUTATION TO THEIR FAMILIES

Background:

Familial cold autoinflammatory syndrome 3 (FCAS3) is an autoinflammatory disease (AID) caused by mutation of the PLCG2 gene, which has not been reported in China. We will report 2 cases of Chinese FCAS3 patients with no claimed family history, but we found the same mutations in a parent during their genetic analysis. After further inquiry of the parent’s medical history, we confirmed that actually, they were two FCAS3 families. Through a literature review, we found that the clinical features of Chinese patients are milder than foreign countries, and their symptoms are concealed and may be ignored, resulting in mistakes in family history collecting.

Objectives:

To summarize the genetic and clinical features of Chinese FCAS3 patients and to provide diagnostic recommendations for the disease.

Methods:

Two suspected AID children with recurrent fever and urticaria were enrolled in this study. Clinical data and family history were collected, and genetic analysis was performed by next-generation sequencing (PID panel or WES) and Sanger-based validation. Literature was reviewed from PubMed, CNKI, and Wanfang Database.

Results:

The two children were both diagnosed to be FCAS3 with PLCG2 mutation. The clinical manifestations of 2 children were recurrent fever, urticaria, and increased ESR and CRP. Case 1 has a paternal, and Case 2 has a maternal heterozygous mutation in the PLCG2 gene, while both had claimed without a family history. Further inquiry showed the two parents used to have a fever with urticaria. By comparing with foreign literature, we found our patients were milder than abroad patients. Large fragment deletions were relatively more common in foreign patients.

Conclusion:

We reported the case of FCAS3 in China for the first time. Their genotype and phenotype were different from foreign patients. Their symptoms are mild, and heterozygous mutations are more common than foreign patients, which are the main differences. The difference in mutation type may be the reason for different clinical manifestations. Besides, both two families showed a trend of more severe clinical features in the next generation. As the symptoms of the elders were not obvious and may be ignored, it caused trouble for the genetic diagnosis. Therefore, family history should be collected carefully. For rashes and fevers, which are not too severe in overall symptoms, care should be taken about the possibility of AIDs. Genetic testing can help to make a definite diagnosis.

Table 1.

Descriptive charecteristics of the patients with FMF, n=474

VariableCompliant(n=230)Noncompliant (n=244)P valueGender of patient (F)142(61.7)147(60.2)0.73Age, years*35(28-42.5)34(27-44.2)0.88Being Married152(66.1)146(59.8)0.15Disease duration, years*22(14-31)22(15-31)0.71Number of index flare*within last 12-month6.7(1-10)5(3-10)<0.001Family historyof parents54(23.5)39(16.0)0.04Family historyof sibling73(32.9)102(43.4)0.02Comorbid disease presence73(31.7)55(22.5)0.02Treatment<0.001Colchicine230 (94.1)180(78.6)Anakinra&Canakinumab134(5.3)49(21.4)Colchicine response presence127(55.2)126(52.3)0.52Drug using except FMF74(32.2)44(18.0)<0.001Presence of 2 attacks except fever90 (39.1)68(27.9)0.009Chronic peripheral arthritis16(7.0)7(2.9)0.03Amyloidosis18(7.8)9(3.7)0.05Proteinuria23(10.8)8(3.6)0.004Adequate medical care161(70.0)132(54.8)<0.001ISSF severity score*3(2-4)3(2-4)0.02ADDI index*1(0-1)1(0-1)0.05

References:

[1]Pathak S, Mcdermott M F, Savic S. Autoinflammatory diseases: update on classification diagnosis and management[J]. Journal of Clinical Pathology, 2017, 70(1):1-8.

[2]Broderick, L., Hereditary Autoinflammatory Disorders: Recognition and Treatment. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am, 2019. 39(1):13-29.

[3]Milner, Joshua D. PLAID: A Syndrome of Complex Patterns of Disease and Unique Phenotypes[J]. Journal of Clinical Immunology, 2015, 35(6):527-530.

[4]Picard C, Gaspar H B, Al-Herz W, et al. International Union of Immunological Societies: 2017 Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases Committee Report on Inborn Errors of Immunity[J]. Journal of Clinical Immunology, 2017, 38(Suppl 1):96-128.

[5]Ombrello M J, Remmers E F, Sun G, et al. Cold Urticaria, Immunodeficiency, and Autoimmunity Related to PLCG2 Deletions[J]. New England Journal of Medicine, 2012, 366(4):330-8.

[6]Zhou Q, Lee GS, Brady J, et al. A Hypermorphic Missense Mutation in PLCG2, Encoding Phospholipase Cγ2, Causes a Dominantly Inherited Autoinflammatory Disease with Immunodeficiency[J]. American Journal of Human Genetics, 2012, 91(4).

[7]Neves, J.F., et al., Novel PLCG2 Mutation in a Patient with APLAID and Cutis Laxa. Front Immunol, 2018. 9: 2863.

[8]Mcdermott M F, Aksentijevich I, Galon J, et al. Germline mutations in the extracellular domains of the 55 kDa TNF receptor, TNFR1, define a family of dominantly inherited autoinflammatory syndromes[J]. Cell, 1999, 97(1):133-144.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

GPR39 Overexpression in OSCC Promotes YAP-Sustained Malignant Progression

The clinical outcome of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) has not improved in recent years, mainly due to the limited effective targeted therapy that has been applied. Recently, a transcriptional coactivator, YAP, has been shown to have a key regulatory role in malignant progression in multiple cancers, including OSCC. But pharmacologically targeting YAP or the Hippo pathway, which is the main signaling pathway regulating YAP, has been proven to be challenging. Therefore, uncovering YAP upstream regulators in cancer would identify novel therapeutic targets for treatment of YAP-sustained cancers. Here, we showed that YAP was overactivated in OSCC and that high YAP activity in patients with OSCC was associated with malignant progression and poor survival. We uncovered that GPR39 (a G protein-coupled receptor) was overexpressed in OSCC, that the expression level of GPR39 was correlated with the activity level of YAP, and that the high GPR39 expression was associated with malignant progression and poor survival in patients with OSCC. Moreover, we found that GPR39 regulated YAP through a Gαq/11-RhoA-dependent signaling pathway. Importantly, inhibition of GPR39 resulted in YAP-sustained OSCC growth inhibition. Our findings suggest that GPR39 is a potential therapeutic target for OSCC treatment with itself as a biomarker.

WITHDRAWN: LncRNA-LINC00261 suppresses the progression of NSCLC cells through upregulating miR-19a-mediated Kruppel-like factor 2 (KLF2)

Ahead of Print article withdrawn by publisher.

Is Laguncularia racemosa more invasive than Sonneratia apetala in northern Fujian, China in terms of leaf energetic cost?

Laguncularia racemosa and Sonneratia apetala are fast-growing exotic mangrove species in Southern China and widely used for afforestation. However, the invasiveness of the two exotic species is still unclear. We compared structural and physiological traits and energy-use related traits between L. racemosa and S. apetala, and with two natives (Kandelia obovata and Aegiceras corniculatum) in northern Fujian. Results showed that leaf construction cost based on mass (CCM) and caloric values of L. racemosa were significantly lower than S. apetala, and the two natives had highest CCM. Because lower CCM, L. racemosa grew faster with a taller height (4.83 m) and wider ground diameter circumference (40.03 cm) than S. apetala (4.43 m tall and 35.63 cm wide) and the two natives (2.42 m tall and 26.78 cm wide). These findings indicated that L. racemosa could be more invasive than S. apetala in mangrove forests in northern Fujian, China where it still grew well, which deserves more attention.

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

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

Protective effects of 8-MOP on blood-brain barrier via the Nrf-2/HO-1 pathway in mice model of cerebral infarction

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effect of 8-MOP on the blood-brain barrier in mice model of cerebral infarction and the underlying mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model was established to induce permanent cerebral infarction. The neurological function was observed and scored by the modified longa score method after model establishment. Besides, the water content of brain tissue was measured by the standard dry weight method. Evans blue exudation rate was used to evaluate the effect of 8-MOP on the permeability of the blood-brain barrier. Western-blot and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were used to detect the expression of MMP-9, claudin-5, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), as well as the NFE2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2)/hemeoxygenase 1 (HO-1) pathway.

RESULTS

8-MOP could reduce the neurological deficit scores in a dose-dependent manner, thereby reducing cerebral edema. After 8-MOP treatment, the expression of MMP-9 decreased in ischemic brain tissue, whereas the expression of claudin-5, VEGF, and GFAP increased, suggesting that the blood-brain barrier ultrastructure was improved. In addition, the expression of Nrf-2 and HO-1 decreased after the model establishment of cerebral infarction. However, the expression of Nrf-2 and HO-1 increased in ischemic brain tissue after 8-MOP treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

8-MOP may protect the blood-brain barrier via the Nrf-2/HO-1 pathway.

PatJAZ6 Acts as a Repressor Regulating JA-Induced Biosynthesis of Patchouli Alcohol in Pogostemon Cablin

The JASMONATE ZIM DOMAIN (JAZ) proteins act as negative regulators in the jasmonic acid (JA) signaling pathways of plants, and these proteins have been reported to play key roles in plant secondary metabolism mediated by JA. In this study, we firstly isolated one JAZ from P. cablin, PatJAZ6, which was characterized and revealed based on multiple alignments and a phylogenic tree analysis. The result of subcellular localization indicated that the PatJAZ6 protein was located in the nucleus of plant protoplasts. The expression level of PatJAZ6 was significantly induced by the methyl jasmonate (MeJA). Furthermore, by means of yeast two-hybrid screening, we identified two transcription factors that interact with the PatJAZ6, the PatMYC2b1 and PatMYC2b2. Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) of PatJAZ6 caused a decrease in expression abundance, resulting in a significant increase in the accumulation of patchouli alcohol. Moreover, we overexpressed PatJAZ6 in P. cablin, which down-regulated the patchoulol synthase expression, and then suppressed the biosynthesis of patchouli alcohol. The results demonstrate that PatJAZ6 probably acts as a repressor in the regulation of patchouli alcohol biosynthesis, contributed to a model proposed for the potential JA signaling pathway in P. cablin.

Effect of silicone oil on macular capillary vessel density and thickness

The present study assessed changes in macular capillary vessel density and thickness associated with ocular silicone oil tamponade (SOT) following complex vitreoretinal surgery. A total of 23 patients who underwent pars plana vitrectomy combined with intravitreal SOT were retrospectively enrolled, and a single eye was assessed in each participant. Furthermore, 20 patients who required silicone oil removal (SOR) were included. The macular capillary vessel density and the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area were analyzed using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and retinal thickness was assessed by OCT. The results demonstrated that the macular capillary vessel density of the superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP), the FAZ area and full retinal thickness were retained at a stable level following SOT (P>0.05), and also following SOR (P>0.05). Furthermore, the parafoveal (P=0.008), superior-hemi (P=0.007), temporal (P=0.015), superior (P=0.028) and nasal (P=0.002) inner retinal thickness decreased in the SOT group, whereas the inner retinal thickness was unaltered after SOR vs. baseline (P>0.05). In conclusion, silicone oil has no significant effect on macular capillary vessel density within a 6-month period but may compress and reduce the thickness of the inner retina.

Migration of noble gas tracers at the site of an underground nuclear explosion at the Nevada National Security Site

As part of an underground gas migration study, two radioactive noble gases (³⁷Ar and ¹²⁷Xe) and two stable tracer gases (SF₆ and PFDMCH) were injected into a historic nuclear explosion test chimney and allowed to migrate naturally. The purpose of this experiment was to provide a bounding case (natural transport) for the flow of radioactive noble gases following an underground nuclear explosion. To accomplish this, soil gas samples were collected from a series of boreholes and a range of depths from the shallow subsurface (3 m) to deeper levels (~160 m) over a period of eleven months. These samples have provided insights into the development and evolution of the subsurface plume and constrained the relative migration rates of the radioactive and stable gas species in the case when the driving pressure from the cavity is low. Analysis of the samples concluded that the stable tracer SF₆ was consistently enriched in the subsurface samples relative to the radiotracer ¹²⁷Xe, but the ratios of SF₆ and ³⁷Ar remained similar throughout the samples.

Pharmacokinetics of intravenous and oral administration of enrofloxacin to the late-term pregnant and non-pregnant mares

BACKGROUND

Enrofloxacin may be an alternative antimicrobial for unresponsive cases of severe bacterial infections in pregnant mares. As pregnancy may affect drug bioavailability, distribution, metabolism and excretion, dose adjustment might be necessary.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the disposition of orally and intravenously administered enrofloxacin in pregnant and non-pregnant mares.

STUDY DESIGN

Randomised cross-over experiment.

METHODS

Six light-breed, healthy pregnant mares (260 days gestation) were given a single dose of either intravenous (5 mg/kg bwt) or oral compounded (7.5 mg/kg bwt) enrofloxacin, with the opposite dose administered after a 7-day washout. The protocol was repeated 45-60 days post-partum, 15-30 days after foals were weaned. Plasma samples were obtained via venepuncture at 0, 5, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 90 min, and 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 72 h after enrofloxacin administration. Enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin concentrations were measured by LC-MS/MS. Concentration versus time data were analysed based on non-compartmental pharmacokinetics.

RESULTS

Enrofloxacin AUC_0-∞ was significantly higher in pregnant mares than non-pregnant mares after PO administration and tended to be higher after i.v. administration. Ciprofloxacin maximum plasma concentration (C_max ) and concentration at 24 h (C_24h ) were higher, and half-life of the terminal phase (t_½λz ) was longer in pregnant mares than non-pregnant mares after oral administration. Similarly, ciprofloxacin C_24h was higher in pregnant mares with intravenous administration. Oral bioavailability did not differ based on pregnancy status.

MAIN LIMITATIONS

Only six healthy light breed mares were assessed. Disease or horse breed may affect the endpoints evaluated. A lack of established enrofloxacin AUC/MIC targets for equine pathogens limits pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic conclusions.

CONCLUSIONS

The oral form of enrofloxacin was well absorbed, and oral bioavailability was comparable to previous studies. While differences in enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin pharmacokinetics were seen between pregnant and non-pregnant mares, the recommended drug dose and dose intervals are appropriate for MIC <0.25 µg/mL. Dosages may need to be adjusted for bacteria with a MIC >0.25 µg/mL.

[The comparative study of endoscope versus open surgery on nipple sparing mastectomy with immediate reconstruction using prosthesis implantation]

Objective: To compare the clinical efficacy between endoscopic nipple-sparing mastectomy with immediat reconstruction using prosthesis implantation and open surgery. Methods: Totally 189 early-stage breast cancer patients admitted at Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University from January 2013 to December 2017 were enrolled. Among them, 104 patients underwent endoscopic nipple sparing mastectomy with immediat reconstruction using prosthesis implantation (endoscopic group), with an age of (41.7±6.1) years (range: 25 to 51 years), and 85 patients underwent traditional open surgery (open group), with an age of (41.6±7.7) years (range: 27 to 67 years). The operative duration, the volume of intraoperative blood loss, the volume of drainage in 3 days after surgery, postoperative complications and patients' satisfaction of breast reconstruction were compared between the two groups using t test, Mann-Whitney U test, χ(2) test or non-parametric test. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in postoperative complications, the rates of recurrence and overall survival between the two groups (P>0.05). The operative duration (sentinel lymph node biopsy: (178± 80) minutes vs. (198±42) minutes, t=-2.082, P=0.039; axillary lymph node dissection: (204±79) minutes vs. (233±49) minutes, t=-2.952, P=0.004), the volume of drainage in three days postoperative ((183±141)ml vs. (237±104) ml, t=- 2.938, P=0.004) in the open group were lower than endoscopic group. The volume of intraoperative blood loss in the endoscopic group was lower than that in the open group ((87±64) ml vs. (62± 36) ml, t=3.210, P=0.002). Patients' satisfaction of breast reconstruction in the endoscopic group was higher than that in the open group. Conclusions: Both endoscopic nipple sparing mastectomy with immediat reconstruction using prosthesis implantation and open surgery are safe in oncology. Endoscopic surgery maybe more suitable alternative in breast reconstruction for early-stage breast cancer patients.

Gut microbiome alteration in MORDOR I: a community-randomized trial of mass azithromycin distribution

The MORDOR I trial1, conducted in Niger, Malawi and Tanzania, demonstrated that mass azithromycin distribution to preschool children reduced childhood mortality1. However, the large but simple trial design precluded determination of the mechanisms involved. Here we examined the gut microbiome of preschool children from 30 Nigerien communities randomized to either biannual azithromycin or placebo. Gut microbiome γ-diversity was not significantly altered (P = 0.08), but the relative abundances of two Campylobacter species, along with another 33 gut bacteria, were significantly reduced in children treated with azithromycin at the 24-month follow-up. Metagenomic analysis revealed functional differences in gut bacteria between treatment groups. Resistome analysis showed an increase in macrolide resistance gene expression in gut microbiota in communities treated with azithromycin (P = 0.004). These results suggest that prolonged mass azithromycin distribution to reduce childhood mortality reduces certain gut bacteria, including known pathogens, while selecting for antibiotic resistance.

Ocular Cyclorotation and Corneal Axial Misalignment in Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery

Purpose: To explore ocular cyclorotation and the source of corneal axial misalignment during femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS).Methods: Forty-five sequential patients (50 eyes) who had undergone FLACS (LenSx Laser System, Alcon Inc) were recruited. We took screenshots from videos of FLACS to analyze ocular cyclorotation and the real angle between primary incision and secondary incision (RAPS). In addition, crystalline lens tilt and theoretic angle between the primary and secondary incisions (TAPS) was also calculated.Results: The mean absolute value of ocular cyclorotation was 8.03 ± 4.48 degrees (0-19.1 degrees). The crystalline lens tilt was 3.30 ± 1.44 degrees (0.93-6.44 degrees). And the mean preoperative uncorrected visual acuity was 0.89 ± 0.50 LogMAR units. Pearson bivariate correlation analysis showed significant positive correlation between ocular cyclorotation with crystalline lens tilt (r = 0.37, p = .008), and ocular cyclorotation negatively correlated with axial length (r = -0.29, p = .038). In addition, the TAPS was 89.78 ± 1.45 degrees, and the RAPS was 85.68 ± 2.04 degrees. The angle error was 4.11 ± 1.28 degrees (p<0.001).Conclusions: Ocular cyclorotation commonly occurred during FLACS. In addition, increased axial length was associated with less ocular cyclorotation and increased crystalline lens tilt was related to more ocular cyclorotation. Importantly, machinery systemic errors during corneal astigmatism correction by arcuate incision in FLACS should be taken into consideration.