Effect of endoscopic therapy and drug therapy on prognosis and rebleeding in patients with esophagogastric variceal bleeding

Esophagogastric variceal bleeding (EVB) is one of the common digestive system emergencies with poor prognosis and high rate of rebleeding after treatment. To explore the effects of endoscopic therapy and drug therapy on the prognosis and rebleeding of patients with EVB, and then select better treatment methods to effectively improve the prognosis. From January 2013 to December 2022, 965 patients with EVB who were hospitalized in gastroenterology Department of the 940 Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Forces of PLA were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into endoscopic treatment group (ET, n = 586) and drug treatment group (DT, n = 379). Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was performed in both groups, and the general information, efficacy and length of hospital stay were recorded. The patients were followed up for 3 months after bleeding control to determine whether rebleeding occurred. There were 286 cases in each group after PSM. Compared with DT group, ET had higher treatment success rate (P < 0.001), lower rebleeding rate (P < 0.001), lower mortality rate within 3 months, and no significant difference in total hospital stay (P > 0.05). Compared with drug therapy, endoscopic treatment of EVB has short-term efficacy advantages, and can effectively reduce the incidence of rebleeding and mortality within 3 months.

Left lower lobe sleeve resection for the clear cell variant of pulmonary mucoepidermoid carcinoma: A case report

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary mucoepidermoid carcinoma (PMEC) is a rare malignancy that arises from minor salivary glands within the tracheobronchial tree. The clear cell variant of PMEC is exceptionally uncommon and presents notable diagnostic challenges, primarily attributable to its morphological similarity to other tumors containing clear cells.

CASE SUMMARY

A 22-year-old male, formerly in good health, came in with a two-month duration of persistent cough and production of sputum. Subsequent imaging and bronchoscopy examinations revealed a 2 cm tumor in the distal left main bronchus, which resulted in complete atelectasis of the left lung. Further assessment via positron emission tomography/computed tomography scans and endoscopic biopsy confirmed the primary malignant nature of the tumor, characterized by clear cell morphology in most of the tumor cells. The patient underwent a left lower lobe sleeve resection accompanied by systematic mediastinal lymph node dissection. Molecular pathology analysis subsequently revealed a CRTC3-MAML2 gene fusion, leading to a definitive pathological diagnosis of the clear cell variant of PMEC, staged as T2N0M0. After surgery, the patient experienced a smooth recovery and exhibited no signs of recurrence during the one-and-a-half-year follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

This article describes an unusual case of a clear cell variant of PMEC characterized by the presence of a CRTC3-MAML2 gene fusion in a 22-year-old male. The patient underwent successful left lower lobe sleeve resection. This case underscores the distinctive challenges associated with diagnosing and treating this uncommon malignancy, underscoring the importance of precise diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies.

Direct inhibition of microglial activation by a μ receptor selective agonist alleviates inflammatory-induced pain hypersensitivity

Opioids are widely used in the treatment of moderate and severe pain. Nociceptive stimulation has been reported to potentially promote microglial activation and neuroinflammation, which also causes chronic pain sensitization. The aim of this study was to demonstrate whether the novel μ receptor agonist MEL-0614 could inhibit activated microglia directly and the associated signaling pathway. Mice were administered lipopolysaccharide and formalin to induce allodynia. Von Frey test was used to detect the anti-allodynia effect of MEL-0614 before and after LPS and formalin injection. In the spinal cord, the levels of proinflammatory cytokines and microglial activation were determined after MEL-0614 administration. BV2 and primary microglia were cultured to further explore the effect of MEL-0614 on LPS-induced microglial activation and key signaling pathways involved. MEL-0614 partially prevented and reversed allodynia induced by LPS and formalin in vivo, which was not inhibited by the μ receptor antagonist CTAP. Minocycline was effective in reversing the established allodynia. MEL-0614 also downregulated the activation of microglia and related proinflammatory cytokines in the spinal cord. Additionally, in BV2 and primary microglia, MEL-0614 inhibited the LPS-induced upregulation of proinflammatory factors, which was unaffected by CTAP. The NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) related signaling pathway may be involved in the interaction between MEL-0614 and microglia. The opioid agonist MEL-0614 inhibited the activation of microglia and the subsequent upregulation of proinflammatory factors both in vivo and in vitro. Notably, this effect is partially mediated by the μ receptor.

Risk factors of infection among close contacts of COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was first detected in December 2019, and declared as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11, 2020. The current management of COVID-19 is based generally on supportive therapy and treatment to prevent respiratory failure.

METHODS

PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, CNKI, and other databases were searched by computer, and relevant literature published from December 2019 to November 2022 on the influencing factors of infection in close contacts with novel coronavirus pneumonia was collected. Meta-analysis was carried out after literature screening, quality assessment, and data extraction.

RESULTS

A total of 425 articles were retrieved and 11 were included. Meta-analysis showed that there were 6 risk factors, and the combined OR value and 95% CI of each influencing factor were 5.23 (3.20, 8.57) for family members, 1.63 (0.56, 4.77) for regular contact, 2.14 (0.62, 7.32) for the elderly, 0.58 (0.001569.89) for cohabitation, 1.97 (1.02, 3.82) for women and 0.75 (0.01, 54.07) for others. The Deeks' funnel diagram indicates that there is no potential publication bias among the included studies.

CONCLUSION

Family members and gender differences are the risk factors of infection among close contacts, and it cannot be proved that there are differences in infection among frequent contact, advanced age, and living together.

Case report of hepatic retiform hemangioendothelioma: A rare tumor treated with ultrasound-guided microwave ablation

Retiform hemangioendothelioma (RH) is a type of low-grade malignant angiosarcoma. It commonly involves the skin and subcutaneous tissue of the lower extremities, but a few cases have been reported in the gut. However, hepatic RH has not been previously reported. This report presents the case of RH of the liver in a 61-year-old woman who was admitted to the hospital having presented with liver space-occupying lesions of 2 months evolution. The patient underwent an abdominal ultrasound examination, which indicated a hemangioma, but abdominal computed tomography diagnosed a liver abscess. In order to determine the nature of the lesion, an ultrasound-guided liver biopsy was performed, after which a pathological diagnosis confirmed the presence of RH in the liver. The patient underwent ultrasound-guided microwave ablation three times and has been followed up for 8 years with no tumor recurrence or metastasis. Surgical excision is still the first choice for the treatment of hepatic RH. As shown in this case, however, for patients who refuse to undergo surgery or have surgical contraindications, ultrasound-guided microwave ablation is an alternative treatment option. The report of this case expands the scope of liver tumors to a certain extent and provides a reference for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Chronic pulmonary mucormycosis caused by rhizopus microsporus mimics lung carcinoma in an immunocompetent adult: A case report

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary mucormycosis is a rare but life-threatening invasive fungal infection that mostly affects immunocompromised patients. This disease usually develops acutely and progresses rapidly, often leading to a poor clinical prognosis. Chronic pulmonary mucormycosis is highly unusual in immunocompetent patients.

CASE SUMMARY

A 43-year-old man, who was a house improvement worker with a long history of occupational dust exposure, presented with an irritating cough that had lasted for two months. The patient was previously in good health, without dysglycemia or any known immunodeficiencies. Chest computed tomography revealed a mass in the left lower lobe, measuring approximately 6 cm in diameter, which was suspected to be primary lung carcinoma complicated with obstructive pneumonia. Thoracoscopic-assisted left lower lobectomy was performed, and metagenomic next-generation sequencing detection, along with special pathological staining of surgical specimens, suggested Rhizopus microsporus infection. Postoperatively, the patient's respiratory symptoms were relieved, and no signs of recurrence were found during the six-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION

This article reports a rare case of chronic pulmonary mucormycosis caused by Rhizopus microsporus in a middle-aged male without dysglycemia or immunodeficiency. The patient's surgical outcome was excellent, reaffirming that surgery remains the cornerstone of pulmonary mucormycosis treatment.

[Acteoside promotes autophagy and apoptosis of hepatoma cells by regulating JNK signaling pathway]

This study explored the molecular mechanism of acteoside against hepatoma 22(H22) tumor in mice through c-Jun N-terminal kinase(JNK) signaling pathway. H22 cells were subcutaneously inoculated in 50 male BALB/c mice, and then the model mice were classified into model group, low-dose, medium-dose, and high-dose acteoside groups, and cisplatin group. The administration lasted 2 weeks for each group(5 consecutive days/week). The general conditions of mice in each group, such as mental status, diet intake, water intake, activity, and fur were observed. The body weight, tumor volume, tumor weight, and tumor-inhibiting rate were compared before and after administration. Morphological changes of liver cancer tissues were observed based on hematoxylin and eosin(HE) staining, and the expression of phosphorylated(p)-JNK, JNK, B-cell lymphoma-2(Bcl-2), Beclin-1, and light chain 3(LC3) in each tissue was detected by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. qRT-PCR was performed to detect the mRNA expression of JNK, Bcl-2, Beclin-1, and LC3. The general conditions of mice in model and low-dose acteoside groups were poor, while the general conditions of mice in the remaining three groups were improved. The body weight of mice in medium-dose acteoside group, high-dose acteoside group, and cisplatin group was smaller than that in model group(P&lt;0.01). The tumor volume in model group was insignificantly different from that in low-dose acteoside group, and the volume in cisplatin group showed no significant difference from that in high-dose acteoside group. Tumor volume and weight in medium-dose and high-dose acteoside groups and cisplatin group were lower than those in the model group(P&lt;0.001). The tumor-inhibiting rates were 10.72%, 40.32%, 53.79%, and 56.44% in the low-dose, medium-dose, and high-dose acteoside groups and cisplatin group, respectively. HE staining showed gradual decrease in the count of hepatoma cells and increasing sign of cell necrosis in the acteoside and cisplatin groups, and the necrosis was particularly obvious in the high-dose acteoside group and cisplatin group. Immunohistochemical results suggested that the expression of Beclin-1, LC3, p-JNK, and JNK was up-regulated in acteoside and cisplatin groups(P&lt;0.05). The results of immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and qRT-PCR indicated that the expression of Bcl-2 was down-regulated in the medium-dose and high-dose acteoside groups and cisplatin group(P&lt;0.01). Western blot showed that the expression of Beclin-1, LC3, and p-JNK was up-regulated in acteoside and cisplatin groups(P&lt;0.01), and there was no difference in the expression of JNK among groups. qRT-PCR results showed that the levels of Beclin-1 and LC3 mRNA were up-regulated in the acteoside and cisplatin groups(P&lt;0.05), and the level of JNK mRNA was up-regulated in medium-dose and high-dose acteoside groups and cisplatin group(P&lt;0.001). Acteoside promotes apoptosis and autophagy of H22 cells in mice hepatoma cells by up-regulating the JNK signaling pathway, thus inhibiting tumor growth.

Octahedral Distortion and Displacement-Type Ferroelectricity with Switchable Photovoltaic Effect in a 3d^{3}-Electron Perovskite System

Because of the half-filled t_{2g}-electron configuration, the BO_{6} octahedral distortion in a 3d^{3} perovskite system is usually very limited. In this Letter, a perovskitelike oxide Hg_{0.75}Pb_{0.25}MnO_{3} (HPMO) with a 3d^{3} Mn^{4+} state was synthesized by using high pressure and high temperature methods. This compound exhibits an unusually large octahedral distortion enhanced by approximately 2 orders of magnitude compared with that observed in other 3d^{3} perovskite systems like RCr^{3+}O_{3} (R=rare earth). Essentially different from centrosymmetric HgMnO_{3} and PbMnO_{3}, the A-site doped HPMO presents a polar crystal structure with the space group Ama2 and a substantial spontaneous electric polarization (26.5  μC/cm^{2} in theory) arising from the off-center displacements of A- and B-site ions. More interestingly, a prominent net photocurrent and switchable photovoltaic effect with a sustainable photoresponse were observed in the current polycrystalline HPMO. This Letter provides an exceptional d^{3} material system which shows unusually large octahedral distortion and displacement-type ferroelectricity violating the "d^{0}-ness" rule.

[Surgical treatment for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma:a single-center experience]

Objective: To investigate surgical strategies and the corresponding benefits for patients with perihilar cholangiocarcinoma(pCCA). Methods: A total of 81 patients with pCCA who underwent radical excision in the Department of Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery of Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital between January 2014 and December 2021 were retrospectively collected.The cohort consisted of 50 male and 31 female patients,with an age of (62.5±11.5)years(range:26 to 83 years).Seventy-five cases were diagnosed with jaundice,60 of whom received preoperative biliary drainage,while 20 patients received portal vein embolization.Their serum bilirubin level within one week before the operation(M(IQR)) was 44.3 (41.9) μmol/L(range:8.0 to 344.2 μmol/L).Preoperative imaging examinations were performed to evaluate the Bismuth-Corlette type of pCCA,showing 3,6,21,27,and 24 cases of Bismuth-Corlette type Ⅰ,Ⅱ,Ⅲa,Ⅲb,and Ⅳ,respectively.The primary outcome was overall survival (OS),and the secondary outcomes were relapse-free survival (RFS),90-day postoperative morbidity and 90-day postoperative mortality.OS and RFS were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared by the Log-rank test.Significant prognostic factors were determined using univariate and multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression analyses. Results: In the cohort of 81 pCCA patients,67 cases(82.7%) underwent major hepatectomy while 3 cases received major hepatectomy combined with pancreaticoduodenectomy.Thirty-four patients underwent hepatectomy combined with vascular resection and reconstruction(18 cases of portal vein resection and reconstruction alone;9 cases of hepatic artery resection and reconstruction alone;7 cases of combination of portal vein and hepatic artery resection and reconstruction).Margin negative(R0 excision) were achieved in 53.1%(43/81) of these patients.The operation duration was (627±136)minutes(range:565 to 940 minutes),and the intraoperative blood loss was 400(455)ml(range:200 to 2 800 ml).The 90-day postoperative mortality was 3.7%(3/81).Grade 3-4 postoperative morbidity was 23.4% (19/81) according to the Clavien-Dindo classification of surgical complications.Up to the last follow-up at September 2022,the follow-up time was 34.0(24.2)months (range:0.4 to 103.6 months).Three patients who died within 90 days after surgery were excluded from the survival analysis.The median OS was 36.10 months (95%CI:18.23 to 42.97 months) and the 1-,3-and 5-year OS rates were 85.3%,46.8% and 27.3%,respectively.The median OS of 41 patients with negative margins was 47.83 months(95%CI:36.90 to 58.80 months) and that of 37 patients with positive margins was 20.47 months(95%CI:10.52 to 30.58 months).The median RFS of 70 patients with R0 and R1 resection was 24.50 months(95%CI:12.15 to 31.85 months)and the 1-,3-and 5-year RFS rates were 65.2%,45.7% and 29.9%,respectively.The median RFS of 41 patients with R0 resection was 38.57 months(95%CI:21.50 to 55.63 months) and that of 29 patients with R1 resection was 10.83 months(95%CI:2.82 to 19.86 months). Conclusions: The primary therapy for pCCA is radical surgical resection.A precise preoperative evaluation and sufficient preparation can reduce postoperative morbidity.Surgical treatment can achieve a better survival outcome by increasing the radical resection rate.

Expression and Correlation of MIF and ERK1/2 in Liver Cirrhosis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Induced by Hepatitis B

Objective

To detect expression and phosphorylation level of macrophage migration inhibitor (MIF) and extracellular-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) in hepatitis B-induced liver cirrhosis (HBILC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with a background of HBILC and analyze the correlation of MIF and ERK1/2 with HBILC and HCC.

Methods

Twenty cases of normal liver tissues were collected as a control group, and 48 specimens of HBILC tissues and 48 specimens of HCC tissues were collected as the experimental group, which were assigned as the HBILC group and HCC group, respectively. All tissue specimens were processed into tissue chips. The expressions of MIF, ERK1/2, and their phosphorylated proteins were detected via immunohistochemistry, and MIF and ERK1/2 nucleic acid expressions were detected by in situ hybridization. The results were statistically analyzed using the chi-square test.

Results

Proteins and nucleic acids of MIF and ERK1/2 presented low expression in the control group and high expression in the HBILC group and HCC group. MIF expression in the three groups was 25.0%, 75.0%, and 79.17%, respectively, while that of the nucleic acids was 25.0%, 70.83%, and 68.75%, respectively. Expression of ERK1/2 in the three groups was 40.0%, 60.42%, and 81.25%, respectively, and that of nucleic acids was 40.0%, 79.17%, and 77.08%. Expression of pERK1/2 was low in the control and HBILC group and high in the HCC group. Expression of pERK1/2 in the three groups was 20%, 45.83%, and 75%, respectively. Expression of pERK1/2 in the HCC group was significantly different from that in the HBILC and control group (P<0.05), but the difference between the HBILC group and control group was not statistically significant (P>0.05).

Conclusion

Occurrence and development of HBILC and HCC are not only related to the high expression of MIF but also closely related to the activation of the ERK1/2 signaling pathway.

[Preliminary study on the expression of MIF in HCC tissues and its relationship with ERK1/2 signaling pathway]

Objective: To investigate the expression of Macrophage migration-inhibitory factors (MIF) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues and its interaction with ERK1/2 signaling pathway, so as to establish a theoretical basis for further studying the molecular mechanism of MIF promoting HCC. Methods: From February 2020 to August 2021, 52 cases of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues based on hepatitis B cirrhosis (HBV-LC) and 52 cases of adjacent tissues in Tianjin Medical University Cancer Hospital and 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of PLA were collected as the experimental group, including 39 males and 13 females, aged 35-65 years. And 20 cases of normal liver tissue were selected as the control group. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of MIF, ERK1/2 and p-ERK1/2 proteins in liver tissues of the two groups, and in situ hybridization was used to detect the expression of ERK1/2 nucleic acid in liver tissues of the two groups.HepG2 HCC cells and L-02 normal hepatocytes were co-cultured with different concentrations of rMIF, the expression and phosphorylation levels of ERK1/2 and JNK1 proteins in the two kinds of liver cells were detected by Western-blot, and the expression levels of ERK1/2 nucleic acids in the two kinds of liver cells were detected by RT-PCR. One-way ANOVA was used for measurement data and χ² test was used for counting data. Results: The expressions of MIF, ERK1/2, p-ERK1/2 and ERK1/2 mRNA were significantly increased in HCC and para-cancer tissues (the expression of MIF in HCC group was 78.8%, and that in adjacent group was 75.0%; ERK1/2 80.8% in HCC group and ERK1/2 71.8% in paracancerous group. The expression of p-ERK1/2 75.0 % in HCC group and 46.2% in paracancerous group were respectively detected. ERK1/2 mRNA was expressed in HCC group 76.9%, ERK1/2 mRNA expression in paracancerous group 78.8%), and the differences were statistically significant compared with normal liver tissues (P<0.05), but there was no significant difference between HCC and para-cancer tissues (P>0.05). The expressions of ERK1/2, p-ERK1/2 and ERK1/2 mRNA in HepG2 HCC cells were significantly increased with the increase of rMIF concentration, and the increase was most obvious when rMIF concentration was 200 ng/ml, and the difference was statistically significant compared with L-02 normal hepatocytes (P<0.05). Conclusion: MIF, ERK1/2 and p-ERK1/2 are highly expressed in HCC tissues and HepG2 HCC cells, suggesting that MIF promotes the occurrence and development of hepatocellular carcinoma through ERK1/2 signaling pathway.

Delayed diagnosis and management of necrotizing fasciitis of the left lower leg: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rare, severe soft tissue infection, characterized by rapid and extensive necrosis of the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and superficial and deep fascia. It is frequently misdiagnosed as other infectious diseases, leading to inappropriate treatment and potentially serious consequences. It may be complicated by septic shock and multiple organ failure with a fatal outcome.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 73-year-old woman presented with continuous itching, skin lesions, pain, and swelling of the outer side of her left leg. The patient was diagnosed with septic shock and multiorgan failure caused by left leg NF.

DIAGNOSIS

Septic shock and multiorgan failure caused by left leg NF.

INTERVENTIONS

Two surgeries were performed on the patient's leg, which effectively treated her septic shock and multiple organ dysfunction.

OUTCOMES

The patient was followed up three times after her discharge. She had a good recovery, was generally well with no significant sequelae, and returned to her regular life.

CONCLUSION

NF is an acute severe illness with high mortality. It is easily misdiagnosed, leading to delayed or erroneous treatment and serious (or potentially fatal) outcomes. Rapid and accurate diagnosis of NF is essential for patient recovery. In difficult cases, multidisciplinary consultations may be helpful. The management of NF includes early and thorough surgical debridement, antibiotics, and symptomatic treatment.

Plasma membrane lesion type total intestinal eosinophilic enteritis: A case report

BACKGROUND

Eosinophilic gastroenteritis is a rare gastrointestinal disease that is characterized by diffuse or localized eosinophil infiltration in the gastrointestinal tract, and is accompanied by increased peripheral blood eosinophils. Herein, a case of plasma membrane lesion-type total intestinal eosinophil enteritis is reported.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report on a 20-year-old male patient who was admitted to the hospital with "abdominal distension for 15 days". The infiltration of a large number of eosinophils was found by conducting an intestinal biopsy, routine ascites examination, blood routine, smear test, and a bone marrow puncture. A special feature of this patient was that a large number of eosinophils were found in the duodenum, small intestine, and colon. The final diagnosis was plasma membrane lesion type total intestinal eosinophilic enteritis. After four weeks of prednisone treatment, the symptoms disappeared completely and the entire intestinal mucosa was endoscopically observed as smooth.

CONCLUSION

Clinical practitioners must pay attention to gastrointestinal endoscopy and biopsy pathology results for patients presenting with abdominal distention and ascites. Combined with an abnormal increase of eosinophils in ascites, bone marrow, and peripheral blood, clinical practitioners must be highly vigilant against plasma membrane lesion type total intestinal eosinophilic enteritis.

TGF-β2-induced NEAT1 regulates lens epithelial cell proliferation, migration and EMT by the miR-26a-5p/FANCE axis

AIM

To explore the regulatory mechanism of nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) in the pathogenesis of posterior capsule opacification (PCO).

METHODS

Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was executed to analyze NEAT1 and microRNA (miR)-26a-5p expression in transforming growth factor-beta 2 (TGF-β2)-disposed lens epithelial cells (LECs). The proliferation, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and migration of TGF-β2-disposed LECs were evaluated. The relationship between NEAT1 or fanconi anemia (FA) complementation group E (FANCE) and miR-26a-5p was verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay.

RESULTS

TGF-β2 induced NEAT1 expression in LECs. NEAT1 inhibition accelerated apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, decreased proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and migration of TGF-β2-disposed LECs. NEAT1 sponged miR-26a-5p to further regulate FANCE expression. Rescue experiments presented that miR-26a-5p downregulation overturned NEAT1 silencing-mediated impacts on TGF-β2-disposed LEC biological behaviors. Additionally, FANCE overexpression reversed miR-26a-5p mimic-mediated impacts on TGF-β2-disposed LEC biological behaviors.

CONCLUSION

TGF-β2-induced NEAT1 facilitates LEC proliferation, migration, and EMT by upregulating FANCE via sequestering miR-26a-5p.

Immunization with a Self-Assembled Nanoparticle Vaccine Elicits Potent Neutralizing Antibody Responses against EBV Infection

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is a global health concern infecting over 90% of the population. However, there is no currently available vaccine. EBV primarily infects B cells, where the major glycoprotein 350 (gp350) is the main target of neutralizing antibodies. Given the advancement of nanoparticle vaccines, we describe rationally designed vaccine modalities presenting 60 copies of gp350 on self-assembled nanoparticles in a repetitive array. In a mouse model, gp350s on lumazine synthase (LS) and I3-01 adjuvanted with MF59 or aluminum hydroxide (Alhydrogel) elicited over 65- to 133-fold higher neutralizing antibody titers than the corresponding gp350 monomer to EBV. Furthermore, immunization with gp350D₁₂₃-LS and gp350D₁₂₃-I3-01 vaccine induced a Th2-biased response. For the nonhuman primate model, gp350D₁₂₃-LS in MF59 elicited higher titers of total IgG and neutralizing antibodies than the monomeric gp350D₁₂₃. Overall, these results support gp350D₁₂₃-based nanoparticle vaccine design as a promising vaccine candidate for potent protection against EBV infection.

A set of RT-PCR assays for detection of all known avian paramyxoviruses and application in surveillance of avian paramyxoviruses in China

Background

Avian paramyxoviruses (APMVs), also termed avian avulaviruses, are of a vast diversity and great significance in poultry. Detection of all known APMVs is challenging, and distribution of APMVs have not been well investigated.

Methods

A set of reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assays for detection of all known APMVs were established using degenerate primers targeting the viral polymerase L gene. The assays were preliminarily evaluated using in-vitro transcribed double-stranded RNA controls and 24 known viruses, and then they were employed to detect 4,346 avian samples collected from 11 provinces.

Results

The assays could detect 20-200 copies of the double-stranded RNA controls, and detected correctly the 24 known viruses. Of the 4,346 avian samples detected using the assays, 72 samples were found positive. Of the 72 positives, 70 were confirmed through sequencing, indicating the assays were specific for APMVs. The 4,346 samples were also detected using a reported RT-PCR assay, and the results showed this RT-PCR assay was less sensitive than the assays reported here. Of the 70 confirmed positives, 40 were class I Newcastle disease virus (NDV or APMV-1) and 27 were class II NDV from poultry including chickens, ducks, geese, and pigeons, and three were APMV-2 from parrots. The surveillance identified APMV-2 in parrots for the first time, and revealed that prevalence of NDVs in live poultry markets was higher than that in poultry farms. The surveillance also suggested that class I NDVs in chickens could be as prevalent as in ducks, and class II NDVs in ducks could be more prevalent than in chickens, and class II NDVs could be more prevalent than class I NDVs in ducks. Altogether, we developed a set of specific and sensitive RT-PCR assays for detection of all known APMVs, and conducted a large-scale surveillance using the assays which shed novel insights into APMV epidemiology.

Rapid Development of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Receptor-Binding Domain Self-Assembled Nanoparticle Vaccine Candidates

The coronavirus disease pandemic of 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the novel SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus resulted in economic losses and threatened human health worldwide. The pandemic highlights an urgent need for a stable, easily produced, and effective vaccine. SARS-CoV-2 uses the spike protein receptor-binding domain (RBD) to bind its cognate receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), and initiate membrane fusion. Thus, the RBD is an ideal target for vaccine development. In this study, we designed three different RBD-conjugated nanoparticle vaccine candidates, namely, RBD-Ferritin (24-mer), RBD-mi3 (60-mer), and RBD-I53-50 (120-mer), via covalent conjugation using the SpyTag-SpyCatcher system. When mice were immunized with the RBD-conjugated nanoparticles (NPs) in conjunction with the AddaVax or Sigma Adjuvant System, the resulting antisera exhibited 8- to 120-fold greater neutralizing activity against both a pseudovirus and the authentic virus than those of mice immunized with monomeric RBD. Most importantly, sera from mice immunized with RBD-conjugated NPs more efficiently blocked the binding of RBD to ACE2 in vitro, further corroborating the promising immunization effect. Additionally, the vaccine has distinct advantages in terms of a relatively simple scale-up and flexible assembly. These results illustrate that the SARS-CoV-2 RBD-conjugated nanoparticles developed in this study are a competitive vaccine candidate and that the carrier nanoparticles could be adopted as a universal platform for a future vaccine development.

New HIV diagnoses in patients with COVID-19: two case reports and a brief literature review

Background

COVID-19 is novel infectious disease with an evolving understanding of its epidemiology and clinical manifestations. Severe cases developed life-threatening complications, such as respiratory failure, shock, and multiple organs dysfunction. Immunocompromised patients often present atypical presentations of viral infected diseases.

Case presentation

We report newly diagnosed HIV infections in two patients with COVID-19 in China. In our two cases, both patients with elevated IL-6 received Tocilizumab treatment, but did not present obvious therapeutic effect.

Conclusions

These cases highlight possible co-detection of known immunocompromised diseases such as HIV. The two cases we reported stressed the risk of misdiagnosis, especially during the pandemic of an infectious disease and the importance of extended testing even if in immune-compromised condition the immune state may be ignored.

Novel frameshift mutation causes early termination of the thyroxine-binding globulin protein and complete thyroxine-binding globulin deficiency in a Chinese family: A case report

BACKGROUND

Thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG; the gene product of SERPINA7) is the main transporter of thyroid hormones in humans. Mutations in the TBG gene may lead to inherited TBG deficiency. There have been 28 reported mutations that associate with complete TBG deficiency (TBG-CD). Here we identified a novel frameshift mutation causing early termination of the TBG protein and TBG-CD in a Chinese family.

CASE SUMMARY

A 46-year-old Chinese man was referred to our hospital with normal free thyroxine, free triiodothyronine, thyrotropin, but lower total thyroxine and total triiodothyronine, and undetectable serum TBG, indicative of TBG-CD. Blood samples were obtained from the patient’s family members and thyroid function and serum TBG were evaluated. Genomic DNA from peripheral blood was sequenced to detect possible TBG mutation(s). Quantitative PCR high-resolution melting curve analysis was used to screen TBG-Poly (L283F) among 117 Chinese men. A novel mutation of TBG (p.Phe135Alafs*21), a 19-nucleotide insertion in exon 1, was identified, which resulted in a truncated TBG protein product and caused TBG-CD. The other mutation, identified in the proband’s father, is a known polymorphism, TBG-Poly (L283F). The frequency of the TBG-Poly allele among 117 unrelated Han Chinese men from northeast China was 21.37%.

CONCLUSION

A novel mutation in the TBG gene associated with the TBG-CD phenotype was identified in a Chinese family. Additionally, it was found that 21.37% of Chinese males had TBG-Poly (L283F).

Tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase (WARS) expression in uveal melanoma - possible contributor during uveal melanoma progression

This study aimed to explore the influence of Tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase (WARS) expression on the proliferation and migration of uveal melanoma (UM) cells, and the potential mechanisms. Bioinformatics analysis based on Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database showed that WARS expression in metastatic cancer was significantly higher than that in no-metastatic group. Kaplan-Meier analysis based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database showed that high WARS expression was associated with lower survival. Biological function experiments showed that overexpression of WARS in OCM-1A cells can promote cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, whereas knockdown of WARS in C918 cells showed the opposite effect. Finally, we observed that the up-regulation of WARS induced the activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/AKT (PI3K/AKT) signaling, whilst depletion of WARS resulted in opponent outcomes. Taken together, our results illustrated that WARS was overexpressed in UM cells and contributed to the viability and motility of UM cells via modulating PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

Intralesional and topical glucocorticoids for pretibial myxedema: A case report and review of literature

Pretibial myxedema (PTM), an uncommon manifestation of Graves’ disease (GD), is a local autoimmune reaction in the cutaneous tissue. The treatment of PTM is a clinical challenge. We herein report on a patient with PTM who achieved complete remission by multipoint subcutaneous injections of a long-acting glucocorticoid and topical glucocorticoid ointment application for a self-controlled study. A 53-year-old male presented with a history of GD for 3.5 years and a history of PTM for 1.5 years. Physical examination revealed slight exophthalmos, a diffusely enlarged thyroid gland, and PTM of both lower extremities. One milliliter of triamcinolone acetonide (40 mg) was mixed well with 9 mL of 2% lidocaine in a 10 mL syringe. Multipoint intralesional injections into the skin lesions of the right lower extremity were conducted with 0.5 mL of the premixed solution. A halometasone ointment was used once daily for PTM of the left lower extremity until the PTM had remitted completely. The patient’s PTM achieved complete remission in both legs after an approximately 5-mo period of therpy that included triamcinolone injections once a week for 8 wk and then once a month for 2 mo for the right lower extremity and halometasone ointment application once daily for 8 wk and then once 3-5 d for 2 mo for the left lower extremity. The total dosage of triamcinolone acetonide for the right leg was 200 mg. Our experience with this patient suggests that multipoint subcutaneous injections of a long-acting glucocorticoid and topical glucocorticoid ointment application are safe, effective, and convenient treatments. However, the topical application of a glucocorticoid ointment is a more convenient treatment for patients with PTM.

[Changes of IL-21 and Its Mediated JAK/STAT Signaling Pathway in Patients with Immune Thrombocytopenia]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the correlation between JAK/STAT signaling pathways and pathogenesis of immune thrombocytopenia(ITP).

METHODS

Twenty-six newly-diagnosed ITP patients was included in this study. They all meet the clinical and hematological criteria for the diagnosis of ITP, and patients with coronary heart disease, severe refractory hypertension, diabetes or with severe liver or kidney function incompetence were ruled out. 24 healthy control without autoimmune diseases, viral infectious diseases and with normal liver and kidney functions were also included. The expressions of Jak3, p-Jak3 mRNA, Stat3, and p-Stat3 were tested and the changes in levels of IL-21 mRNA, IL-21 cell secretion after DEX intervention and AG490 blockade were measured.

RESULTS

Compared with the healthy control, patients with ITP had significantly high expressions of Jak3, p-Jak3 mRNA, Stat3 and p-Stat3 protein, which significantly reduced after AG490 blocking (P<0.01). The expression of IL-21 mRNA and the secretion of IL-21 obviously decreased after DEX intervention, but increased after AG490 blocking(P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

The pathogenesis of ITP associates with the activation of JAK/STAT signaling pathways, and IL-21-mediated JAK/STAT signaling pathways play regulatory role in ITP.

Long non-coding RNA EPB41L4A-AS2 inhibited non-small cell lung cancer proliferation, invasion and promoted cell apoptosis

The aim of the research was to investigate the expression of lncRNA EPB41L4A-AS2 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and evaluate its influence on the proliferation, invasion and apoptosis of NSCLC. A total of 56 NSCLC tissues and its corresponding adjacent tissues were collected. Quantitative Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to evaluate the lncRNA EPB41L4A-AS2 expression level in tissues and cell lines. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) protein level was determined by western blot assay. CCK8 assay, EdU assay, flow cytometry (FCM) and transwell assay were performed to access cell proliferation, apoptosis and invasion. EPB41L4A-AS2 expression was significantly downregulated in cancer tissues and cells compared with the adjacent tissues and normal cells (P<0.05). After cells were transfected with pcDNA3.1-EPB41L4A-AS2, cell viability and PCNA protein level was decreased, and cells were arrested in the G0/G1 phase with higher apoptosis rate. Transwell assay showed that over-expressed EPB41L4A-AS2 could reduce cells invasion ability. Expression of low levels of EPB41L4A-AS2 is associated with poor survival in NSCLC and the over-expression of lncRNA EPB41L4A-AS2 inhibits NSCLC cell proliferation, invasion and promote cell apoptosis.

Silencing SlMED18, tomato Mediator subunit 18 gene, restricts internode elongation and leaf expansion

Mediator complex, a conserved multi-protein, is necessary for controlling RNA polymerase II (Pol II) transcription in eukaryotes. Given little is known about them in tomato, a tomato Mediator subunit 18 gene was isolated and named SlMED18. To further explore the function of SlMED18, the transgenic tomato plants targeting SlMED18 by RNAi-mediated gene silencing were generated. The SlMED18-RNAi lines exhibited multiple developmental defects, including smaller size and slower growth rate of plant and significantly smaller compound leaves. The contents of endogenous bioactive GA3 in SlMED18 silenced lines were slightly less than that in wild type. Furthermore, qRT-PCR analysis indicated that expression of gibberellins biosynthesis genes such as SlGACPS and SlGA20x2, auxin transport genes (PIN1, PIN4, LAX1 and LAX2) and several key regulators, KNOX1, KNOX2, PHAN and LANCEOLATE(LA), which involved in the leaf morphogenesis were significantly down-regulated in SlMED18-RNAi lines. These results illustrated that SlMED18 plays an essential role in regulating plant internode elongation and leaf expansion in tomato plants and it acts as a key positive regulator of gibberellins biosynthesis and signal transduction as well as auxin proper transport signalling. These findings are the basis for understanding the function of the individual Mediator subunits in tomato.

Different Origins of Newcastle Disease Virus Hemagglutinin-Neuraminidase Protein Modulate the Replication Efficiency and Pathogenicity of the Virus

To investigate the exact effects of different origins of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) hemagglutinin-neuraminidase (HN) protein to the biological characteristics of the virus, we systematically studied the correlation between the HN protein and NDV virulence by exchanging the HN of velogenic or lentogenic NDV strains with the HN from other strains of different virulence. The results revealed that the rSG10 or rLaSota derivatives bearing the HN gene of other viruses exhibited decreased or increased hemadsorption (HAd), neuraminidase and fusion promotion activities. In vitro and in vivo tests further showed that changes in replication level, tissue tropism and virulence of the chimeric viruses were also consistent with these biological activities. These findings demonstrated that the balance among three biological activities caused variation in replication and pathogenicity of the virus, which was closely related to the origin of the HN protein. Our study highlights the importance of the HN glycoprotein in modulating the virulence of NDV and contributes to a more complete understanding of the virulence of NDV.

Roles of the Polymerase-Associated Protein Genes in Newcastle Disease Virus Virulence

The virulence of Newcastle disease virus varies greatly and is determined by multiple genetic factors. In this study, we systematically evaluated the roles of the polymerase-associated (NP, P and L) protein genes in genotype VII NDV virulence after confirming the envelope-associated (F and HN) proteins contributed greatly to NDV virulence. The results revealed that the polymerase-associated protein genes individually had certain effect on virulence, while transfer of these three genes in combination significantly affected the chimeric virus virulence, especially when the L gene was involved. These results indicated that the L protein was a major contributor to NDV virulence when combined with the homologous NP and P proteins. We also investigated viral RNA synthesis using NDV minigenome systems to assess the interaction between the NP, P, and L proteins, which showed that the activity of the polymerase-associated proteins were directly related to viral RNA transcription and replication.

[Distribution of human papillomavirus (HPV) among HPV positive cervical adenocarcinoma cases detected by laser capture microdissection(LCM)]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the distribution of human papillomavirus (HPV) in the diseased areas cut from HPV-positive cervical adenocarcinoma (ADC) detected by laser capture microdissection (LCM).

METHODS

Paraffin-embedded specimens diagnosed as ADC between 2005 and 2010 were collected from 9 hospitals in 7 regions across China. HPV genotyping was conducted on paraffin sections using sandwich technique and LCM in order to identify HPV infection in the tumor tissues. HE and p16 immunohistochemistry staining were performed to make histological diagnosis.

RESULTS

A total of 169 cervical adenocarcinoma cases were recruited, including 94 cases of mucinous adenocarcinoma (ADC-CX), 9 cases of adenosquamous carcinoma (ASC), 19 cases of minimal deviation adenocarcinoma (ADC-MIN), 14 cases of clear cell adenocarcinoma (ADC-CC), 8 cases of endometrioid adenocarcinoma (ADC-ENDO), 9 cases of serous adenocarcinoma (ADC-SER) and 16 cases of adenocarcinoma not otherwise specified (ADC-NOS). Fourteen types of high risk HPV were detected in the whole tissue section (WTS). HPV16 was the most common type, and the second was HPV18 and HPV52, respectively. Compared with WTS, the HPV-positive rate detected by LCM was lower. The HPV positive rates were significantly different among different subtypes of cervical adenocarcinoma (P<0.001). After LCM, the HPV positive rate was 50.8% and 66.7% in the single infection and multiple, infection groups respectively (P=0.14). The positive rates of p16 was significantly different among different subtypes of cervical adenocarcinoma (P<0.001). p16-positive rate was 73.9% in the HPV-positive samples after LCM, significantly higher than the 38.5% of negative samples (P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Laser capture dissection technique can more precisely reflect the HPV distribution in cervical adenocarcinomas. The etiological association between HPV infection and cervical adenocarcinoma occurrence is not as close as that reported in the literature.

Expression of macrophage migration-inhibitory factor in duodenal ulcer and its relation to Helicobacter pylori infection

The aim of this study was to examine the expression of macrophage migration-inhibitory factor (MIF) in duodenal ulcer epithelial cells and its relation to Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection, and to discuss the pathogenic roles of MIF expression and Hp infection in duodenal ulcer. MIF protein and mRNA expression was examined in samples from patients with duodenal ulcer with and without Hp infection (N = 40 each, experimental group), and in normal duodenal bulb mucosal tissue (N = 40, control group) using immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization. Patients without Hp infection received routine treatment, and treatment was provided to the patients positive for Hp to eradicate Hp infection. Hp and MIF expression levels before treatment and after the ulcer had been cured were compared. The positive rates of MIF protein and mRNA in patients with Hp infection before treatment were 67.5 and 65%, respectively, and were 18.9 and 21.6% in the 37 patients from whom Hp was eliminated. These were statistically different both before and after treatment compared with controls (P < 0.05). In the patients without Hp infection, the positive rates of MIF protein and mRNA expression before (45 and 47.5%, respectively) and after (32.5 and 30%) treatment were not significantly different (P > 0.05). The results of this study suggested that MIF is related to the development of duodenal ulcer, and that the presence of Hp is closely related with the expression of MIF in the duodenal mucosa and the development of duodenal ulcer.

Cloning and transformation of INDUCER of CBF EXPRESSION1 (ICE1) in tomato

The tomato plant (Solanum lycopersicum Mill.) is sensitive to cold, and low field temperatures can result in shortened growth periods and decreased crop yield. Transcription of CRT/DRE-binding factor (CBF) is regulated by INDUCER of CBF EXPRESSION1 (ICE1). CBF activates many downstream genes that confer cold tolerance on plants. ICE1 has been used in genetic engineering to improve cold-resistance in several plant species. Here, ICE1 in a plant expression vector was used to transform a tissue-cultured rhubarb tomato variety using Agrobacterium tumefaciens. The transgenic and control plants were compared at 4°C for 0, 24, and 72 h. We measured leaf physiological indicators related to cold resistance, including malondialdehyde (MDA) and proline (Pro) contents, and peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) activities. At 72 h, the MDA content in transgenic plants was significantly lower than in control plants, indicating a lower membrane lipid injury. The Pro contents and the CAT and POD activities in the transgenic plants increased significantly compared with those of the control plants. For Pro, the increase continued over the prolonged stress exposure, while CAT and POD activities reached peak levels at 24 h. These results are consistent with the roles of Pro, CAT, and POD in defending the integrity of plant cells. Our study not only improves the cold resistance of tomato, but also provides the foundation for further research on the role of ICE1 as a transcription factor in plant cold resistance.

Effects of modified Shoutaiwai recipe on integrin β3 and leukemia-inhibitory factor in endometrium of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation mice during the implantation window

We investigated the effects of a modified Shoutaiwai recipe on integrin β3 and leukemia-inhibitory factor (LIF) in the endometrium of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) mice during the implantation window. Seventy non-pregnant mice were randomly divided into 3 groups: a traditional medicine (TCM) treatment group (N = 30), an aspirin treatment (N = 30) group, and a control group (N = 10). After the model was successfully established, mice in the drug treatment groups and the control group were respectively treated with the modified Shoutaiwai recipe, aspirin, or 0.9% physiological saline. During the implantation window of mice, the middle segment of the mouse uterus was recovered, and integrin β3 and LIF expressions in the endometrium were respectively detected using an immunohistological two-step method and reverse transcription-PCR. Expressions of integrin β3 and LIF in the endometrium of mice in the TCM treatment group were significantly increased compared to aspirin-treated and control mice, and those of aspirin-treated mice were increased compared to the control group. Our modified Shoutaiwai recipe may improve the endometrial receptivity of COH mice by increasing the expression of integrin β3 and LIF in the endometrium during the implantation window.

Superconductivity in topological insulator Sb2Te3 induced by pressure

Topological superconductivity is one of most fascinating properties of topological quantum matters that was theoretically proposed and can support Majorana Fermions at the edge state. Superconductivity was previously realized in a Cu-intercalated Bi₂Se₃ topological compound or a Bi₂Te₃ topological compound at high pressure. Here we report the discovery of superconductivity in the topological compound Sb₂Te₃ when pressure was applied. The crystal structure analysis results reveal that superconductivity at a low-pressure range occurs at the ambient phase. The Hall coefficient measurements indicate the change of p-type carriers at a low-pressure range within the ambient phase, into n-type at higher pressures, showing intimate relation to superconducting transition temperature. The first principle calculations based on experimental measurements of the crystal lattice show that Sb₂Te₃ retains its Dirac surface states within the low-pressure ambient phase where superconductivity was observed, which indicates a strong relationship between superconductivity and topology nature.

Expression levels of P-glycoprotein in peripheral blood CD8+ T lymphocytes from HIV-1-infected patients on antiretroviral therapy

In this study, we aimed to measure P-glycoprotein (P-gp) expression in CD8(+) T lymphocytes of HIV-1-infected patients, to investigate how P-gp levels are affected by antiretroviral therapy (ART) in HIV-1 infection, and to assess the value of using P-gp expression to predict virologic response to ART. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were obtained from a cohort of HIV-1‑infected patients in China: 140 patients on ART, and 49 ART-naïve patients. We also enrolled 24 healthy blood donors as the controls. The expression levels of P-gp in CD8(+) T cells of HIV-1-infected patients were evaluated by quantitative reverse transcription PCR, ELISA and flow cytometry. A high inter-individual variability was observed in the CD8(+) T cells of both HIV-1-infected patients and healthy donors; however, the expression levels of P-gp were significantly higher in the HIV-1-infected group on ART compared to the ART-naïve group. The relative proportion of P-gp(+)CD8(+) T cells inversely correlated with the blood CD4(+) T cell count in the HIV-1‑infected patients on ART (r=-0.3343, P=0.0375). Groups of both good and poor responders showed significantly elevated levels of P-gp(+)CD8(+) T cells. The percentage of P-gp(+)CD8(+) T cells appeared to provide a sensitive estimate of the virologic response to ART compared to the CD4(+) T cell count. Our results suggest that P-gp expression varies among HIV-1‑infected patients, but is significantly higher in HIV-1‑infected patients on ART. The overexpression of P-gp is involved in ART initiation during HIV-1 infection, and P-gp(+)CD8(+) T cells may be an additional criterion for the evaluation of the antiretroviral response to ART.

Molecular characterization of chicken-derived genotype VIId Newcastle disease virus isolates in China during 2005-2012 reveals a new length in hemagglutinin-neuraminidase

Newcastle disease (ND) is one of the most important diseases of poultry, and causes severe economic losses in the global poultry industry. Although all Newcastle disease virus (NDV) isolates belong to a single serotype, significant genetic diversity has been described between different NDV isolates. Here, we report the molecular characterization of 23 virulent genotype VIId NDV isolates of class II circulating in China. Phylogenetic construction and analysis revealed the existence of distinctly genomic and amino acid differences that clearly distinguished these isolates from other typical NDV genotypes and vaccine strains. We also report a new 582-amino-acid hemagglutinin-neuraminidase in genotype VII NDV strains. This is believed to be the first study to investigate systematically the most predominant NDV strains, and provides more information on the genetic nature of genotype VIId NDV of class II circulating in China.

Superconductivity of the topological insulator Bi2Se3 at high pressure

The pressure-induced superconductivity and structural evolution of Bi2Se3 single crystals are studied. The emergence of superconductivity at an onset transition temperature (Tc) of about 4.4 K is observed at around 12 GPa. Tc increases rapidly to a maximum of 8.2 K at 17.2 GPa, decreases to around 6.5 K at 23 GPa, and then remains almost constant with further increases in pressure. Variations in Tc with respect to pressure are closely related to the carrier density, which increases by over two orders of magnitude from 2 to 23 GPa. High-pressure synchrotron radiation measurements reveal structural transitions at around 12, 20, and above 29 GPa. A phase diagram of superconductivity versus pressure is also constructed.

Can backpropagation error surface not have local minima

It is shown theoretically that for an arbitrary T-element training set with t(t=/<T) different inputs, the backpropagation error surface does not have suboptimal local minima if the network is capable of exactly implementing an arbitrary training set consisting of t different patterns. As a special case, the error surface of a backpropagation network with one hidden layer and t-1 hidden units has no local minima, if the network is trained by an arbitrary T-element set with t different inputs.

[Preparation technology and quantitative analysis for beta-cyclodextrin inclusion compound of Angelica oil]

OBJECTIVE

To optimize the preparation process of beta-cyclodextrin (beta-CD) inclusion compound of Angelica oil.

METHODS

Single factor experiment and orthogonal design were used together, oil inclusion rate was used as an index, then chose the best preparation technology.

RESULTS

The optimal method was saturated solution method. The preparation condition for inclusion was as follows: the ratio of Angelica oil to beta-CD was (1: 8), the ratio of beta-CD to water was (1: 6) and the stirring time was 4 h.

CONCLUSION

The preparation procedure of inclusion volatile oil is simple, stable, reliable and high inclusion rate.

High resolution characterization of modifications in fused silica after exposure to low fluence 355 nm laser at different repetition frequencies

We report on the characterization of modifications in fused silica after exposure to low fluence (2 J/cm2) 355 nm laser at repetition frequencies of 1 Hz, 5 Hz and 10 Hz. Synchrotron based XRF spectroscopy is employed to study concentration variation of metal inclusions in the surface layer. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy is used to probe atomic size defects variation in bulk silica. FT-IR is used to characterize changes of bond length and angle of Si-O-Si covalent bond of irradiated silica. Compared to the basic frequency, the big loss of cerium and iron concentration, the size enlargement of vacancy cluster and the decrease of Si-O-Si covalent bond length after 10 Hz laser irradiation are illustrated by our data. These tiny modifications provide important data to investigate laser damage mechanism.

Role of tetraspanin CD151-α3/α6 integrin complex: Implication in angiogenesis CD151-integrin complex in angiogenesis

Tetraspanin CD151 mainly associates with laminin-binding integrins and forms CD151-integrin complex. We previously reported that CD151 could be a potential target for angiogenesis, but the mechanisms involved are still unclear. This study investigated the role of CD151-integrin complex in angiogenesis and the signaling mechanisms involved. Here we showed that CD151 and CD151-AAA mutant were both well expressed at the protein level. CD151 gene transfer promoted angiogenesis and improved skin temperature of the lateral ischemic hindlimb, whereas CD151-AAA mutant abrogated the increase in capillary density and skin temperature. Further, CD151-AAA mutant failed to activate the FAK, ERK, PI3K/Akt/eNOS, and Rac1/Cdc42 signaling pathways. Moreover, CD151-AAA mutant was unavailable to promote bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAECs) proliferation and migration, in contrast to the effects of CD151. The results suggested that formation of CD151-integrin complex was likely to be a prerequisite for CD151-induced angiogenesis and signaling pathways.

Overexpression of α-2,6 sialyltransferase stimulates propagation of human influenza viruses in Vero cells

Human influenza viruses are major concern as the leading cause of global pandemics. In infecting cells, they preferentially bind to sialyloligosaccharides containing terminal N-acetyl sialic acid linked to galactose by an α-2,6-linkage (NeuAcα2,6Gal). The amount of NeuAcα2,6Gal in Vero cells, which are predominantly used for production of influenza vaccines over the past 30 years, may not be as high as that in epithelial cells of human respiratory tract, what leads to the suboptimal virus growth in Vero cells. In this study, we stably transfected Vero cells with cDNA of human α-2,6-sialyltransferase (SIAT1), an enzyme catalyzing α-2,6-sialylation of galactose on glycoproteins. Overexpression of SIAT1 in the transfected Vero cells (Vero-SIAT1 cells) was confirmed by Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence microscopy. Vero-SIAT1 cells expressed 7 times higher amounts of NeuAcα2,6Gal, but 3 times lower amounts of NeuAcα2,3Gal as compared to parental Vero cells. Furthermore, the influenza viruses A (H1N1 and H3N2) and B grew in Vero-SIAT1 cells to the higher titers than in Vero cells. Taken together, these results imply that Vero-SIAT1 cells are useful not only for the propagation of human influenza viruses, but also for the preparation of influenza vaccines.

Low-density to high-density transition in Ce75Al23Si2 metallic glass

Using in situ high-pressure x-ray diffraction (XRD), we observed a pressure-induced polyamorphic transition from the low-density amorphous (LDA) state to the high-density amorphous (HDA) state in Ce(75)Al(23)Si(2) metallic glass at about 2 GPa and 300 K. The thermal stabilities of both LDA and HDA metallic glasses were further investigated using in situ high-temperature and high-pressure XRD, which revealed different pressure dependences of the onset crystallization temperature (T(x)) between them with a turning point at about 2 GPa. Compared with Ce(75)Al(25) metallic glass, minor Si doping shifts the onset polyamorphic transition pressure from 1.5 to 2 GPa and obviously stabilizes both LDA and HDA metallic glasses with higher T(x) and changes their slopes dT(x)/dP. The results obtained in this work reveal another polyamorphous metallic glass system by minor alloying (e.g. Si), which could modify the transition pressure and also properties of LDA and HDA metallic glasses. The minor alloying effect reported here is valuable for the development of more polyamorphous metallic glasses, even multicomponent bulk metallic glasses with modified properties, which will trigger more investigations in this field and improve our understanding of polyamorphism and metallic glasses.

Biliary cystadenocarcinoma diagnosed with real-time contrast-enhanced ultrasonography: Report of a case with diagnostic features

Biliary cystadenocarcinoma is a very rare malignant cystic tumor of the liver, which is often misdiagnosed due to a poor recognition of it. We report a case of a 60-year-old man with biliary cystadenocarcinoma with his real time contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) characteristics compared to those of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which were correlated with the surgical and pathologic findings. Cystic wall enhancement, internal septations and intra-cystic solid portions in the arterial phase were observed on CEUS after contrast agent injection. The enhancement was washed out progressively and depicted as hypo-enhancement in the portal and late phases. CT revealed a large irregular cystic lesion in the left liver lobe with no clear septations and solid components. MRI showed an irregular cystic occupying lesion with septations.

[The changes of thyrotropin level in euthyroid population: a 5-year follow-up study in communities with different iodine intakes]

OBJECTIVE

To determine the factors that influence the development of abnormal thyrotropin (TSH) level in an euthyroid population.

METHODS

We conducted a follow-up study in 3 communities with different iodine status. Of the 3403 euthyroid subjects at baseline screened in 1999, 80.1% (n = 2727) was visited and sampled in 2004 for measuring TSH, thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) and thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb).

RESULTS

Iodine status in the 3 communities were stable. Decreased TSH level (< 0.3 mU/L) developed in 2.5% (n = 68) of sampled subjects, while raised TSH level (> 4.8 mU/L) in 2.4% (n = 64). A logistic analysis showed that risk factors for developing decreased TSH level included positive conversion of TPOAb (OR = 5.5), positive TPOAb both in 1999 and in 2004 (OR = 4.0), positive TgAb in 2004 (OR = 3.7) and TSH < 1.0 mU/L in 1999 (OR = 2.6). Risk factors involved in developing raised TSH level included iodine status of Zhangwu community (OR = 4.1), iodine status of Huanghua community (OR = 3.9), positive TgAb in 2004 (OR = 3.7), positive TPOAb both in 1999 and 2004 (OR = 3.6), positive conversion of TPOAb (OR = 2.7) and TSH > 1.9 mU/L in 1999 (OR = 2.6).

CONCLUSIONS

Exposure to long-term iodine excess imposes danger of developing hypothyroidism. The risk will be even higher when exposing to iodine adequacy after correction of iodine deficiency. An interval between 1.0 and 1.9 mU/L of TSH level was optimal with the least probability of developing abnormal TSH level.

A study for maternal thyroid hormone deficiency during the first half of pregnancy in China

BACKGROUND

Maternal thyroid hormone deficiency is the most common disorder of thyroid function during pregnancy and can influence the outcome for mother and foetus. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of thyroid hormone deficiency during the first half of pregnancy in iodine sufficient areas of China.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Four thousand eight hundred pregnant women from 10 hospitals during the first 20 weeks of gestation were enrolled in this study. All sera obtained from pregnant women were measured for thyrotropin, free thyroxine and thyroid peroxidase antibody. Screening for thyroid hormone deficiency was performed on pregnant women using gestational age-specific reference intervals or non-pregnant population reference intervals.

RESULTS

With gestational age-specific reference intervals as the criterion, the prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism at 4, 8, 12,16 and 20 weeks of gestation was 4.59%, 6.15%, 4.68%, 4.53% and 5.96%, respectively, and the prevalence of hypothyroxinaemia was 3.69%, 1.11%, 2.92%, 1.29% and 2.29%, respectively. Different prevalence was obtained when non-pregnant population reference intervals was used as the criterion. If non-pregnant population reference intervals were used, the percentage of potentially misclassified cases of subclinical hypothyroidism were 0.18%, 2.85%, 4.1%, 3.24%, and 3.21%, respectively, and 3.45%, 0.66%, 2.34%, 1.29%, and 1.83%, respectively, in potentially misclassified cases of hypothyroxinaemia.

CONCLUSIONS

The percentage of potentially misclassified cases of subclinical hypothyroidism and hypothyroxinaemia in pregnant women decreased by using the gestational age-specific reference intervals as a diagnostic criteria during the first half of pregnancy.

[Study on ursolic acid extraction rate by ultramicro smashing and conventional smashing from leaves of Paulownia fortunei]

OBJECTIVE

To study on ursolic acid extraction rate from leaves of Paulownia fortunei by conventional powder and ultramicro powder.

METHODS

We spent different time extracting ursolic acid from coventional powder and ultramicro powder, then determined the content by HPLC and compared.

RESULTS

In ultramicro powder the extraction of ursolic acid was nearly twice of conventional powder; The time reaching the maximum extraction of ultramicro powder was 5 minutes, but that of conventional powder was 20 minutes.

CONCLUSIONS

The extraction of ursolic acid from leaves of Paulownia fortunei by ultramicro smashing is more efficient.

[Anoikis-suppression and invasion induced by tyrosine kinase receptor B in OVCAR3 ovarian cancer cells]

OBJECTIVE

To study the relationship between tyrosine kinase receptor B (TrkB) expression and anoikis-suppression and invasion in OVCAR3 ovarian cancer cells.

METHODS

The expression of TrkB mRNA in OVCAR3 ovarian cancer cells under two culture conditions: adhesive cells and cell-spheroids were evaluated by RT-PCR and real-time PCR. The relationship between TrkB expression and anoikis-suppression of OVCAR3 ovarian cancer cells was examined by RNA interference (RNAi) technic, anchorage independent culture and fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis. The difference in invasion and metastatic ability of OVCAR3 cells under two culture conditions and with or without TrkB silenced by small interfering RNA (siRNA) was investigated by matrigel invasion assay and in vivo studies.

RESULTS

The expression of TrkB mRNA was highest in OVCAR3 ovarian cancer cells, 0.0240 +/- 0.0017, compared with the other three cell lines, 0.0030 +/- 0.0006, 0.0027 +/- 0.0009 and 0.0087 +/- 0.0003 respectively, and the expression in OVCAR3 multicellular spheroids was significantly higher than that in cells under monolayer adhesive culture, 0.0437 +/- 0.0021 versus 0.0240 +/- 0.0017 (P < 0.01). TrkB mediated anoikis-suppression in OVCAR3 ovarian cancer cells. OVCAR3 multicellular spheroids had a higher invasion ability than OVCAR3 cells under monolayer adhesive culture, and the penetrating cells of the two groups were 71.8 +/- 0.8 and 47.7 +/- 0.8 respectively (P < 0.01). The metastatic ability of OVCAR3 cells was attenuated when TrkB was silenced, and the volume of the tumors developed by OVCAR3 adhesive cells and OVCAR3 adhesive cells with TrkB silenced were (16.3 +/- 4.7) mm(3) and (6.0 +/- 1.4) mm(3) respectively (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

As an anoikis-suppressor, TrkB may increase the invasion and metastasis of OVCAR3 ovarian cancer cells.

Hyperbaric oxygen induces endogenous neural stem cells to proliferate and differentiate in hypoxic-ischemic brain damage in neonatal rats

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Studies suggest that after brain injury, hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) is neuroprotective by stimulating cell proliferation. We examine whether HBO2 promotes neural stem cells (NSC) to proliferate and differentiate in neonatal hypoxic-ischemic (HI) rats.

METHODS

Seven-day-old rat pups were subjected to unilateral carotid artery ligation followed by 2 hours of hypoxia (8% O2). HBO2 was administered (2 ATA (atmospheres absolutes), once daily for 7 days) within 3 hours after HI. The proliferating neural stem cells in the subventricular zone (SVZ) and dentate gyrus (DG) were dynamically examined by 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU)/nestin immunofluorescence. Nestin protein was detected by western blot analysis at various time points (from 6 hours to 14 days) after HI. The migrating NSC were examined by BrdU/doublecortin (DCX) immunofluorescence 7 and 14 days after HI. The phenotype of the newborn cells was identified by BrdU/beta-tubulin, BrdU/ glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and BrdU/O4 (oligodendrocyte marker) immunofluorescence. Myelin basic protein (MBP) was examined by immunohistochemistry and pathological changes of the brain tissue were detected 28 days after HI.

RESULTS

In neonatal HI rats treated with HBO2, the proliferation of endogenous NSC was observed in the SVZ and DG. Cell numbers peaked 7 days after HI and proliferating NSC migrated to the cerebral cortex at 14 d after HI. Twenty-eight days after HI, an increase in newly generated neurons, oligodendrocytes and MBP was observed in the HBO2 group compared to the untreated and HI-treated rats.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that HBO2 treatment may promote neurogenesis of the endogenous NSC in neonatal HI rats, contributing to repair of the injured brain.