[Safety and feasibility of robotic-assisted thoracoscopic day surgery for pulmonary nodules: a retrospective analysis based on propensity score matching]

Objective: To evaluate the safety and feasibility of robotic-assisted thoracoscopic day surgery for pulmonary nodules. Methods: Clinical data of 523 patients with pulmonary nodule underwent robotic-assisted thoracoscopic surgery in the Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University from January 2021 to June 2022 were retrospectively analyzed, which including 223 males and 300 females, aged from 19 to 72 (54.0±11.7) years. Those patients were divided into the day surgery group (DSG) and inpatient surgery group (ISG) according to perioperative management methods. Propensity score matching (PSM) (1∶2) was performed according to the general baseline information, T stage of the tumor, surgery approach, and tumor position, and a total of 178 patients were finally included. Clinical outcomes of DSG were observed. The differences in incidence of postoperative complications, treatment-related costs and resource consumption between DSG and ISG were compared. Subgroup analysis was performed according to surgery method to evaluate the difference between DSG and ISG in lobectomy and sublobectomy. Results: In 81 cases DSG, eight patients were transferred to thoracic surgery ward, and the day surgery discharge rate was 90% (73/81). There was no statistically significant difference in incidence of postoperative complications between DSG and ISG (P=0.612). The length of stay after surgery, period of chest draining, average hospital cost, and drug cost of DSG were statistically significant lower than ISG, ((2.19±0.84) vs (4.74±1.81) days, (1.70±0.65) vs (3.45±1.85) days, (6.64±0.74) vs (8.29±0.97)×10⁴ CNY, (0.35±0.07) vs (0.69±0.18)×10⁴ CNY), respectively(all P<0.05). The drainage volume and VAS score at discharge in DSG and ISG group were(220.47±120.02) ml and(242.21±129.96) ml, 1.68±0.79 and 1.64±0.91, respectively, with no statistically significant difference (P>0.05). In subgroup analysis, there was no statistically significant difference in incidence of postoperative complications, drainage volume after surgery and VAS score at discharge between DSG and ISG both for lobectomy and sublobectomy patients. And the results of the length of stay after surgery, period of chest draining, and drug cost in DSG were also significantly lower than ISG (P<0.05). Conclusions: Robotic-assisted thoracoscopic day surgery for pulmonary nodule is safe and feasible, with the advantage of short length of stay after surgery, short period of chest draining, less average hospital cost and drug cost. There is no difference in incidence of postoperative complications between DSG and ISG.

[Transplantation of bilateral superficial inferior epigastric artery perforator flap for breast reconstruction in a patient with unilateral breast cancer]

On May 14, 2020, a 37 year old female patient with unilateral breast cancer was admitted to Hunan Cancer Hospital. She underwent modified radical mastectomy for right breast cancer and free transplantation of bilateral superficial inferior epigastric artery perforator flap (weighed 305 g) for breast reconstruction. During the operation, the right inferior epigastric vascular pedicle was anastomosed with the proximal end of the right internal mammary vessel, and the left inferior epigastric vascular pedicle was anastomosed with the distal end of the right internal mammary vessel; the blood flow of the flap was good; the wound in the donor site of the abdominal flap was closed directly. The operation lasted for 9 hours. In the first 48 hours post operation, the flap showed mild elevation in perfusion over drainage, but no obvious edema or blister was observed, flap temperature was consistent with the surrounding skin, and the drainage volume out of drainage tube was only 40 mL. The blood supply of the flap was completely restored to normal 3 days post operation, the flap survived well, the donor site incision had no obvious tension, and the healing was smooth. After 2 months of follow-up, the donor site incision of abdomen healed completely, only linear scar was left, and the reconstructed breast had a natural appearance; the patient planned to perform further nipple reconstruction and contralateral breast mastopexy. This case suggests that autologous breast reconstruction can be performed using bilateral superficial inferior epigastric artery perforator flaps under certain circumstances to minimize donor site injury to the greatest extent.

[Preparation and characterization of a recombinant poly-epitopic vaccine EgG1Y162-2 (4) against cystic echinococcosis based on the linker GSGGSG]

OBJECTIVE

To perform prokaryotic expression and preliminary characterization of the recombinant poly-epitope vaccine EgG1Y162-2 (4) against cystic echinococcosis.

METHODS

The recombinant poly-epitope vaccine EgG1Y162-2 (4) against Echinococcus granulosus based on the linker GSGGSG was subjected to structural three-dimensional (3D) modeling using immunoinformatics to analyze the structural changes and evaluate the antigenicity of the vaccine. The pET30a-EgG1Y162-2 (4) recombinant plasmid was generated using double digestion with EcoR I and Sal I, and then transformed into competent cells. Following protein induction with isopropyl-β-D-thiogalactoside (IPTG), the prokaryotic expression proteins were characterized using Western blotting, and the antigenicity of the recombinant protein was analyzed using sera from cystic echinococcosis patients and health volunteers.

RESULTS

The four EgG1Y162-2 proteins coupled by the 3D structure of the recombinant vaccine EgG1Y162-2 (4) presented independent and effective expression and good antigenicity. The highest protein expression was detected in the supernatant following induction of the recombinant plasmid pET30a-EgG1Y162-2 (4) by 0.2 mmol/L IPTG at 37 °C for 4 h, and a pure protein component was seen following elution with 60 mmol/L imidazole. Western blotting analysis of the recombinant multiepitope protein HIS-EgG1Y162-2 (4) showed a band at approximately 39 kDa, and this band was recognized by sera from cystic echinococcosis patients.

CONCLUSIONS

A recombinant poly-epitope vaccine EgG1Y162-2 (4) against cystic echinococcosis has been successfully constructed, which provides a preliminary basis for researches on recombinant multi-epitope vaccine against cystic echinococcosis.

A fixed-mix stochastic fractional programming method for optimizing agricultural irrigation and hydropower generation in Central Asia

In this study, a fixed-mix stochastic fractional programming (FSFP) method is developed for balancing the water-allocation conflict between upstream hydropower generation and downstream agricultural irrigation. FSFP has advantages in dealing with ratio-objective problem under uncertainty, reflecting the dynamic and stochastic characteristics over a long-term planning context, as well as analyzing interrelationships between system efficiency and violation risk of water-allocation target. Then, FSFP is firstly applied to Tuyamuyun reservoir in the lower reach of Amu Darya River basin (Central Asia), where multiple scenarios based on different hydropower-generation targets and inflow levels are examined for identifying the complex relationship between hydropower generation and crop irrigation. Major findings and managerial insights can be summarized as: (i) with the reduction of reservoir inflow, water allocation for downstream agricultural irrigation would decrease by 30.4% once the minimum demand is satisfied, and hydropower generation should be higher priority for pursuing higher marginal benefit; (ii) with the shrinking water supply and rising hydropower-generation target, cotton planting should be firstly restrained due to its high water demand and grape planting is encouraged; (iii) under extreme water scarcity (i.e., low and very-low inflow levels), low-level hydropower generation target (i.e., α = 0.45) is desired for meeting the food requirement in the study basin; (iv) for alleviating the water shortage during dry seasons, it is recommended that water storage should be conducted in autumn and winter, and water release for crop irrigation should be implemented during spring and summer. These findings can help managers identify sustainable water-allocation schemes for agricultural irrigation and hydropower generation against water shortage, environmental destruction and energy insecurity in arid regions.

LINC00839 Promotes the Progression of Gastric Cancer by Sponging miR-1236-3p

In this paper, LINC00839 expression in gastric cancer (GC) was confirmed by real-time quantitative PCR. The function of LINC00839 in GC was detected by loss of function assays. Luciferase assays was performed to confirm the interaction between LINC00839 and miR-1236-3p. Then we investigated the regulatory effect of LINC00839 on miR-1236-3p. The results confirmed that the expression level of LINC00839 in GC was significantly up-regulated. LINC00839 could promote GC cell proliferation, mobility, and invasion. The detection of luciferase reporter gene confirmed that LINC000839 could bind to the binding site of miR-1236-3p. Our findings suggest that LINC00839 promotes GC progression through sponging miR-1236-3p.

[Role of histological evaluation of periprosthetic tissue in diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection]

Objective: To evaluate the role of histologicalpathology in the diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection. Methods: A total of 145 cases of joint arthroplasty during October 2017 and October 2018 from Beijing Jishuitan Hospital were collected. There were 23 cases of infection, including knee joint arthroplasty (12 cases) and hip arthroplasty (11 cases). There were 17 females and 6 males. Patients' age ranged from 39 to 76 years (mean 63 years). The infection was diagnosed if there were >5 neutrophils per high power field in at least 5 high power field. The permanent sections were examined twice separately by two pathologists, and the interval time of histologic examination was at least two weeks. Sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP), positive predictivevalue (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated. The consistency evaluation of histologic examination of two pathologists was calculated by Kappa analysis. Results: The neutrophil cells could locate scattered or focally in the synovium tissue of periprosthetic joint infection. Somewhere, the infiltration of vessel and the perivascular distribution could also exist. Opportunity coincidence rate between two pathologists was 91.3% (Kappa=0.817). The results showed that SE was 60.9%, SP was 100.0%, NPV was 93.1%, PPV was 100.0%. Conclusions: The presence of polymorphonuclear cells in histologic examination is correlated with infection. There was high consistency between histologic examination and clinical diagnosis of joint arthroplasty.

[Microbiology analysis of periprothetic joint infection post total hip and knee arthroplasty of 9 centers in Beijing between 2014 and 2016]

Objective: To investigate the microbiological test, antibiotic sensitivity and surgical treatment of periprosthetic joint infection(PJI) cases in post total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) patients. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional survey was conducted on 318 patients who underwent THA or TKA in 9 clinical centers in Beijing from January 2014 to December 2016.The data of microbiology, antibiotic sensitivity and surgical treatment were collected.The average age of patients was (62.3±13.1) years old (range: 21-86 years old), including 145 males and 173 females.The body mass index was (25.6±3.8) kg/m (2) (range: 15.6-38.1 kg/m(2)). Results: In total, 318 patients had microorganisms detected by periprosthetic tissue culture or synovial fluid culture, 209 cases (65.7%) had Gram-positive bacteria, 29 cases (9.1%) had Gram-negative bacteria, 10 cases (3.1%) had fungi, 3 cases (0.9%) had non-tuberculous mycobacteria, 72 cases (22.6%) were negative, 69 cases (21.7%) had methicillin-resistant bacteria. The antibiotic sensitivity results showed that the overall resistance rate of penicillin, cefuroxime, amoxicillin+clavulanic acid was 79.9%, 69.9%, and 68.1%, respectively; meropenem, vancomycin, and linezolid resistance rate was 0. For the treatment methods of hip and knee PJI, two-stage revision surgery acounted for 72.9% (108/148) and 64.1% (109/170), respectively. One-stage revision surgery accounted for 21.6% (32/148) and 7.6% (13/170), and open debridement surgery accounted for 4.7%(7/148) and 26.4% (45/170). Conclusions: Gram-positive bacteria was still the main pathogen of PJI.The methicillin-resistant bacteria and rare bacteria should be payed attention to. The Majority of hip and knee PJI cases were treated by two-stage revision surgery.

[Clinicopathological and ALVAL score analysis of pseudotumor-like tissue around aseptic joint arthroplasty]

Objective: To analyze the clinicopathological features of pseudotumor-like tissue around aseptic joint arthroplasty and aseptic lymphocytic vasculitis-associated lesions (ALVAL) scores. The characters of wear granules were observed. Methods: Total 122 cases were retrieved from the surgical pathology files between May 2015 and August 2018 in the department of pathology in Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, which included the knee joint arthroplasty (10 cases) and hip arthroplasty (112 cases). There were 62 females and 60 males. Patients' age ranged from 29 to 86 years (mean 56 years). The pseudotumor-like tissue around aseptic joint arthroplasty were stained with HE and analyzed by two ALVAL score systems. The characters of wear granules were observed by light microscope and polarized light. Results: The cohort included 62 females and 60 males. Patients' age ranged from 29 to 86 years (mean 56 years). Compbell-ALVAL system includes synovial lining,inflammatory infiltrate and tissue organization. The scores were: low (0-4): 18cases; moderate (5-8): 101 cases; high (9-10): 3 cases. Oxford-ALVAL system only evaluated the inflammatory infiltrate,and the scores were:0 grade:56 cases; 1 grade:51 cases; 2 grade: 12 cases; 3 grade:3 cases. Cases with high score in the Compbell-ALVAL system were concordant with the 3 grade of the Oxford-ALVAL system. Under light microscope,the metal particles were small black granules; the polyethylene fibers were needle-like and easily visible in polarized light. The polymethylmethacrylate showed clear spaces because of particle melting. Conclusions: The Compbell-ALVAL scoring system is based on the histologic analysis of pseudotumor-like tissue around aseptic joint arthroplasty, and the Oxford-ALVAL scoring systems is based on lymphocytic response. The wear particles could be differentiated by the features in the light microscope.

Evidence of a Resonant Structure in the e^{+}e^{-}→π^{+}D^{0}D^{*-} Cross Section between 4.05 and 4.60 GeV

The cross section of the process e^{+}e^{-}→π^{+}D^{0}D^{*-} for center-of-mass energies from 4.05 to 4.60 GeV is measured precisely using data samples collected with the BESIII detector operating at the BEPCII storage ring. Two enhancements are clearly visible in the cross section around 4.23 and 4.40 GeV. Using several models to describe the dressed cross section yields stable parameters for the first enhancement, which has a mass of 4228.6±4.1±6.3  MeV/c^{2} and a width of 77.0±6.8±6.3  MeV, where the first uncertainties are statistical and the second ones are systematic. Our resonant mass is consistent with previous observations of the Y(4220) state and the theoretical prediction of a DD[over ¯]_{1}(2420) molecule. This result is the first observation of Y(4220) associated with an open-charm final state. Fits with three resonance functions with additional Y(4260), Y(4320), Y(4360), ψ(4415), or a new resonance do not show significant contributions from either of these resonances. The second enhancement is not from a single known resonance. It could contain contributions from ψ(4415) and other resonances, and a detailed amplitude analysis is required to better understand this enhancement.

[Effect of GSK-3β inhibitor on the expression of RANK-RANKL in rats kidney tissue with diabetic nephropathy]

Objective: To investigate the effect and significance of GSK-3β inhibitor(LiCl)and RANK-RANKL on the renal tissue of diabetic nephropathy(DN) rats. Methods: SD rats were divided into normal control group (NC), DN model group (DN) and GSK-3β inhibitor intervention group (LiCl). Twenty-four hour urine protein of rats were determined by Coomassie brilliant blue. Kidney tissue sections were stained by HE. The expression of GSK-3β, RANK and RANKL protein were determined by immunohistochemistry staining. The mRNA of GSK-3β, RANK, RANKL was detected by RT-qPCR. Results: Compared with NC group[(14.72±3.37)g], the level of 24-hour urinary protein[(154.17±20.65)g] increased significantly in DN group; compared with DN Group, the level of 24-hour urinary protein [(107.22±31.15)g]decreased in LiCl group(P<0.05). Compared with NC group(2.10±0.60, 1.10±0.20, 1.21±0.20; 19.52±3.20, 1.80±1.10, 1.81±0.50), the pathological changes of renal tissues of DN group aggravated, the mRNA and expression of protein of GSK-3β, RANK and RANKL increased(9.10±2.15, 8.95±2.40, 9.90±2.60; 32.70±7.20, 19.20±4.32, 20.92±5.90); compared with DN group, the pathological changes of renal tissues of LiCl group alleviated, mRNA and the expression of protein of factors above declined(2.70±0.80, 2.32±0.65, 3.58±1.10; 22.35±3.25, 4.20±2.42, 5.90±2.36; P<0.05). Conclusion: RANK and RANKL play an important role in the development of DN, LiCl influence Wnt and NF-κB signal pathway down-regulating RANK and RANKL to suspend development of diabetic nephropathy.

Enhanced magnetic circular dichroism by subradiant plasmonic mode in symmetric graphene oligomers at low static magnetic fields

Giant magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) that shows a different response to incident wave with left or right-handed circular polarization under external magnetic field is promising for magneto-optical sensing, revealing symmetry and degeneracy information of electronic states. However, traditional methods and materials that are used to obtain significant MCD involve highly strong external magnetic field. Based on the excitation of subradiant plasmonic mode and Fano resonance in graphene oligomers in the mid-infrared region, we numerically demonstrate that MCD is enhanced three times larger than the previously reported method, based on the resonance of electric dipole plasmonic mode. This giant MCD is attributed to the remarkably different excitation efficiency of subdradiant plasmonic mode due to the interparticle coupling under left or right-handed circular polarization incidence and external magnetic field. Our results offer an effective mechanism to enhance MCD signal at the nanoscale, which facilitates the sensing, spintronic, nanophotonics and other such fields.

[The anti-cancer effect of ZR30 protein via targeting extracellular signal proteins of different cell subpopulations of glioma]

Objective: To investigate the roles and anti-cancer mechanism of artificially synthesized EGF-containing fibulin-like extracellular matrix protein (EFEMP1) derived tumor suppressor ZR30 protein in glioma (GBM). Methods: ZR30 protein were in vitro expressed using a wheat germ cell-free system. GBM cell lines (U251, U251NS, and U87) were cultured for 2-3 days in the presence or absence of ZR30 treatment. MMP-2 level was detected by gelatin zymography assay, moreover, the expression of EGFR, Notch-1 and p-Akt/Akt levels were determined by western blot. Additionally, MTT assay was used to measure ZR30's effect on the cell proliferation of U251 and U251NS cells. Furthermore, pre-mixed U251-GFP and U251NS-RFP cells (1∶9) were injected into the brain of nude mice, and then ZR30 or PBS was injected into the intra-tumor after 10 and 21 days, respectively. Then DNA was extracted from the right brain of nude mice in each group. Comparative quantitative polymerase chain reaction (CQ-PCR) was used to examine the copy numbers of human gene hSPAG16, mouse gene mSpag16, GFP and RFP. The survival status of each group of nude mice was also observed. Results: The levels of activated MMP-2 in U87 and U251 cells were lower after 10, 50 and 100 ng/ml ZR30 treatment for 2-3 days. Western blot analysis showed that ZR30 treatment reduced the expression of EGFR, Notch-1 and p-Akt/Akt in U251 cells, and inhibited Notch-1 and p-Akt/Akt expression in U251NS cells, and then decreased the response of U251 cells to EGF stimulation. Moreover, ZR30 inhibited the cell proliferation of U251 and U251NS two days after exposure. The in vivo orthotopic GBM xenografts were successfully constructed. CQ-PCR results indicated that the hSPAG16/mSpag16 ratios of mice in PBS group and ZR30 treatment groups at 180, 700, and 1 800 ng dosages were 3.67±2.82, 1.18±0.97, 1.75±1.55 and 1.38±1.17, respectively, and ZR30 treatment groups showed significantly lower ratios than the PBS group (P<0.05 for all). Correspondingly, the ratios of GFP/RFP in each group were 1.97±0.80, 1.97±0.85, 1.48±0.71 and 1.73±0.77, respectively, showing no statistical significance (P>0.05 for all). When treatment was performed 10 d after cell implantation, and the median survival time of mice in PBS group and ZR30 group was 40.5 days and 59.0 days, respectively. When treatment was performed 21 d after cell implantation, the median survival time of mice in PBS group and ZR30 group was extended to 57.0 days and 74.5 days, respectively. The median survival time of ZR30 treatment groups significantly prolonged (P<0.05 for all). Conclusions: ZR30 inhibits in vitro cell growth, invasion, angiogenesis and stemness maintenance in glioma via suppressing activated MMP-2, EGFR, p-Akt/Akt and Notch-1 proteins. In vivo, ZR30 markedly increased survival of mice harboring glioma xenografts, even for only one intra-tumoral injection at the time of early tumor formation. Overall, the in vivo and in vitro experiments supported the therapeutic potential of ZR30 for GBM.

Measurement of the Branching Fraction For the Semileptonic Decay D^{0(+)}→π^{-(0)}μ^{+}ν_{μ} and Test of Lepton Flavor Universality

Using a data sample corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 2.93  fb^{-1} taken at a center-of-mass energy of 3.773 GeV with the BESIII detector operated at the BEPCII collider, we perform an analysis of the semileptonic decays D^{0(+)}→π^{-(0)}μ^{+}ν_{μ}. The branching fractions of D^{0}→π^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ} and D^{+}→π^{0}μ^{+}ν_{μ} are measured to be (0.272±0.008_{stat}±0.006_{syst})% and (0.350±0.011_{stat}±0.010_{syst})%, respectively, where the former is of much improved precision compared to previous results and the latter is determined for the first time. Using these results along with previous BESIII measurements of D^{0(+)}→π^{-(0)}e^{+}ν_{e}, we calculate the branching fraction ratios to be R^{0}≡B_{D^{0}→π^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ}}/B_{D^{0}→π^{-}e^{+}ν_{e}}=0.922±0.030_{stat}±0.022_{syst} and R^{+}≡B_{D^{+}→π^{0}μ^{+}ν_{μ}}/B_{D^{+}→π^{0}e^{+}ν_{e}}=0.964±0.037_{stat}±0.026_{syst}, which are compatible with the theoretical expectation of lepton flavor universality within 1.7σ and 0.5σ, respectively. We also examine the branching fraction ratios in different four-momentum transfer square regions, and find no significant deviations from the standard model predictions.

Edge toroidal charge exchange spectra analysis in the EAST

An edge toroidal charge exchange recombination spectroscopy (eCXRS) diagnostic has been deployed successfully on the Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) recently, providing edge plasma ion temperature and toroidal rotation. Edge CXRS on EAST typically monitors the carbon vi (529.059 nm, n = 8 → 7) spectral line. Spectral lines emitted from other different impurities that appeared in the wavelength ranges of 528 nm-530 nm illustrate the need to revise the edge change exchange spectra analysis in this region. Since the eCXRS sightlines end on the ion cyclotron range of frequencies (ICRF) stainless steel antenna, the passive Fe lines coming from the antenna could be recorded by eCXRS diagnostic when ICRF is used. A revised edge toroidal charge exchange spectra analysis including Fe spectral lines is presented. The accuracy of eCXRS measurement has been improved by the revised spectra analysis.

Simultaneous measurement of C VI, Ne X, and Li III charge exchange lines on EAST

The core toroidal charge exchange recombination spectroscopy system on experimental advanced superconducting tokamak (EAST) has been enhanced recently to extend the spectral range. The C VI charge exchange line at 529.059 nm, Ne X line at 524.897 nm, and Li III line at 516.67 nm are observed successfully. The measurements were performed by injecting neon gas and dropping lithium powder simultaneously during the 2016 EAST experimental campaign. One channel connected to a neon lamp is used to perform the real-time wavelength calibration on a shot-to-shot basis. The preliminary results indicate that ion temperature profiles from the carbon and neon impurities are in excellent agreement and provide a consistency check of the measurement from different impurities. Toroidal velocity correction associated with the energy-dependent cross section has been performed. Toroidal rotation of neon impurity is obviously faster than C VI across the whole profile. A cumulative and saturated effect of core lithium ions was observed.

Novel lncRNA-ZNF281 regulates cell growth, stemness and invasion of glioma stem-like U251s cells

Glioma is the most common sub-type of brain tumor. Due to the presence of stem-like cells, it is characterized by poor prognosis, aggressive ability and high post-surgical recurrence rates. Hence, there is critical need to identify molecular mechanisms of glioma stem-like cells. We found a novel lncRNA in the ZNF281 gene and named it lncRNA-ZNF281. We detected the expression of lncRNA-ZNF281 in glioma stem-like cells (U251s), the glioma cell line (U251) and also in normal brain tissue. The expression of lncRNA-ZNF281 was lower in glioma stem-like cells (U251s) and this indicates that lncRNA-ZNF281 can regulate the self-renewal capacity of glioma stem-like cells and stem cell marker expression. Most significantly, lncRNA-ZNF281 inhibits the invasion of glioma stem-like cells by regulating the expression of the NF-κB1 signaling pathway. Our data demonstrates that lncRNA-ZNF281 inhibits the self-renewing ability and invasion of GSCs in vitro and in vivo and can reduce tumorigenicity in the glioma stem-like cell (U251s). The underlying mechanisms may involve the regulation of stem cell markers (CD133, Nestin, OCT4 and Nanog) to reduce the self-renewal ability and regulate the NF-κB1 signaling pathway and inhibit U251s glioma stem-like cell invasion. These finding suggest that lncRNA-ZNF281 could be a successful new therapeutic target in glioma.

Measurement of the Absolute Branching Fraction of the Inclusive Decay Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X

Based on an e^{+}e^{-} collision data sample corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 567  pb^{-1} taken at the center-of-mass energy of sqrt[s]=4.6  GeV with the BESIII detector, we measure the absolute branching fraction of the inclusive decay Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X to be B(Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X)=(38.2_{-2.2}^{+2.8}±0.9)% using the double-tag method, where X refers to any possible final state particles. In addition, we search for direct CP violation in the charge asymmetry of this inclusive decay for the first time, and obtain A_{CP}≡[B(Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X)-B(Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-}→Λ[over ¯]+X)]/[B(Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X)+B(Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-}→Λ[over ¯]+X)]=(2.1_{-6.6}^{+7.0}±1.6)%, a statistically limited result with no evidence of CP violation.

[Traditional nasal therapy in Uighur medicine]

Nasal therapy, extensively documented in the ancient Uighur medical literature, is one of the external therapies of Uighur medicine. Based on the relevant records of 14 Uighur medical works, the application, classification, clinical features, and medications characteristics of nasal therapy were preliminarily sorted out. The results show that the nasal therapy can be divided into 7 categories, covering more than 200 kinds of common medicinal herbs, 8 kinds of processing methods and 10 kinds of preparations. Clinically, there is a large number of nasal therapy prescriptions, with flexible administration of prescriptions and medications, significant features of comprehensive therapy, with significance of application for further development.

[Reliability and validity of Driving Anger Scale in professional drivers in China]

Objective: To assess the reliability and validity of the Chinese version of Driving Anger Scale (DAS) in professional drivers in China and provide a scientific basis for the application of the scale in drivers in China. Methods: Professional drivers, including taxi drivers, bus drivers, truck drivers and school bus drivers, were selected to complete the questionnaire. Cronbach's α and split-half reliability were calculated to evaluate the reliability of DAS, and content, contract, discriminant and convergent validity were performed to measure the validity of the scale. Results: The overall Cronbach's α of DAS was 0.934 and the split-half reliability was 0.874. The correlation coefficient of each subscale with the total scale was 0.639-0.922. The simplified version of DAS supported a presupposed six-factor structure, explaining 56.371% of the total variance revealed by exploratory factor analysis. The DAS had good convergent and discriminant validity, with the success rate of calibration experiment of 100%. Conclusion: DAS has a good reliability and validity in professional drivers in China, and the use of DAS is worth promoting in divers.

[Application of bilateral direct anterior approach total hip arthroplasty: a report of 22 cases]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the operation technique and the methods to avoid early complications on the learning curve for bilateral direct anterior approach (DAA) total hip arthroplasty (THA).

METHODS

We retrospectively studied a series of continued cases with bilateral avascular necrosis of the femoral head (AVN) or degenerative dysplastic hip and rheumatoid arthritis that were treated by DAA THA in Beijing Jishuitan Hospital. A total of 22 patients with 44 hips were analyzed from June 2014 to August 2016 in this study. There were 17 males and 5 females, and the median age was 48 years (range: 34-67 years). All the surgery was done by DAA method by two senior surgeons. The clinic characters, early surgery treatment results and complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

We used the cementless stems in all the cases. The average operating time was (167±23) min; the average blood loss was (775±300) mL;the blood transfusion was in average (327±341) mL; the wound drainage in average was (111±73) mL. Most of the patients could move out of the bed by themselves on the first day after operation, 5 patients could walk without crutches on the first operating day, and 13 patients could squat on the third days after operation. The patients were discharged averagely 4 days after operation. We followed up all the patients for averagely 16 months (range: 8-24 months). There was no loosening or failure case in the latest follow up. In the study, 2 patients had great trochanter fracture, 2 patients had thigh pain, 4 patients had lateral femoral cutaneous nerve palsy, and 3 patients had muscle damage. The Harris scores were improved from 29±8 preoperatively to 90±3 postoperatively (P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

The DAA THA can achieve faster recovery and flexible hip joint after operation. However it is a kind of surgery with high technique demanding. Carefully selected patients, and skilled technique, can help the surgeon avoid the early complications. It is associated with high complication rate in the learning curve for bilateral DAA THA.

[Estimation of femoral version based on broach geometry after femoral-neck osteotomy]

OBJECTIVE

To find out whether it is accurate to estimate femoral version based on femoral broach after femoral neck osteotomy using computed tomography scans.

METHODS

In 32 total hip arthroplasty (THA), we performed CT scans before and after operation. Four possible levels (lesser trochanter, 5 mm above, 10 mm above and 15 mm above the lesser trochanter) of broach version were calculated based on the preoperative CT scan. Stem versions were measured on the postoperative CT scan. We determined the difference between the preoperative broach version and the postoperative stem version using the Student's t test for paired samples assuming equal variance.

RESULTS

For the operated hips, preoperative hip version differed according to the level of measurement. Our findings showed that the average femoral version was 37.0°±11.0° at the level of the lesser trochanter (section 1), 34.3°±10.6° at 5 mm above the lesser trochanter (section 2), 28.1°±10.9° at 10 mm above the lesser trochanter (section 3), and 22.4°± 13.7° at 15 mm above the lesser trochanter (section 4), and that the average version for the femoral neck (FNV) was 12.9°±13.8°. The postoperative hip version was the stem version (FSV), which we found to be an average of 26.1°±11.0°. The mean femoral version for section 1 and 2 was larger than the mean postoperative stem version (P<0.01); the mean version for sections 3 and 4 did not differ from the mean postoperative stem version (P>0.05). The mean femoral neck version was less than the mean postoperative stem version (P<0.01); the difference was 13.2°±11.1° of the increased anteversion on average for the FSV compared with FNV.

CONCLUSION

The accuracy of estimated femoral version after arthroplasty depends on broach level. When it is 10 mm above the lesser trochanter, stem version estimation is accurate, but below that level, there is a tendency to overestimate.

Treatment of petrochemical secondary effluent by an up-flow biological aerated filter (BAF)

In this study, petrochemical secondary effluent was treated by a 55 cm diameter pilot-scale biological aerated filter (BAF) with a media depth of 220 cm. Volcanic rock grains were filled as the BAF media. Median removal efficiency of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) was 29.35 and 57.98%, respectively. Moreover, the removal profile of the COD, NH3-N, total nitrogen and total organic carbon demonstrated that the filter height of 140 cm made up to 90% of the total removal efficiency of the final effluent. By gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, removal efficiencies of 2-chloromethyl-1,3-dioxolane, and benzonitrile, indene and naphthalene were obtained, ranging from 30.12 to 63.01%. The biomass and microbial activity of the microorganisms on the filter media were in general reduced with increasing filter height, which is consistent with the removal profile of the contaminants. The detected genera Defluviicoccus, Betaproteobacteria_unclassified and the Blastocatella constituted 1.86-6.75% of the identified gene, enhancing the COD and nitrogen removal in BAF for treating petrochemical secondary effluent.

3D Modelling on Biodegradable Nanoparticle-Enhanced Cryoablation of Liver Tumor Based on Real Anatomical Model

BACKGROUND

Nanoparticle-enhanced freezing is of great importance for developing a conformal targeted cryoablation for liver tumor with complex shape. However, the safety and biocompatibility of nanoparticles should also be of major concerns.

OBJECTIVE

This study is to investigate the enhanced cryoablation mediated by the MgO nanoparticles which are nontoxic, biodegradable, and have few side-effects on the human body.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A three-dimensional numerical model has been developed based on a real geometrical anatomical structure to characterize such nanocryosurgical freezing of liver tumor. The evolutions of temperature field and ablation volume were investigated subject to different concentrations and scopes of the loaded nanoparticles, respectively. Additionally, the results of different probe numbers were also taken into consideration.

RESULTS

It was found that the lesion growth was evidently affected by the configurations of both the nanoparticles and cryoprobes. Both ablation and frozen regions were enlarged with the increase of the loading ratio and scope of MgO nanoparticles. It was worth mentioning that thermal-physiological behavior of the adjacent large blood vessels also played an important role in affecting the target temperature field distribution.

CONCLUSION

The present study established a feasible way for verisimilarly simulating the physiological manifestation of human liver in the process of nano-freezing modality, which would provide a valuable guidance for future clinical practice of conformal nano-cryoablation on liver tumor.

Effect of gene polymorphims on the warfarin treatment at initial stage

The adverse reactions of warfarin that were found mainly occurred in the first month. This study was carried out to observe the effect of gene polymorphisms on the warfarin therapy at the initial stage. Four-hundred and sixty Chinese patients began warfarin treatment with daily 2.5 mg after heart valve replacement operations were enrolled. The daily international normalized ratio (INR) for anticoagulation were recorded till the seventh day. Blood samples were collected and used to detect genotypes for VKORC1 rs7294, CYP2C9 rs1057910, CYP4F2 rs2108622 and ORM1 rs17650. INR and their changes were compared among genotypes. INR was partially correlated with the VKORC1 rs7294, CYP2C9 rs1057910, CYP4F2 rs2108622 and ORM1 rs17650 polymorphisms from the third, fourth and sixth day on, respectively. VKORC1 rs7294 and CYP4F2 rs2108622 carriers responded lower than the wild genotype, whereas CYP2C9 rs1057910 and ORM1 rs17650 carriers responded higher, respectively. Fifty percent of AA/*1*3/CC/*S*S patients and 16% of AA/*1*1/CC/*S*S patients were over anticoagulation treated with INR >4.0 at the third day. Ninety percent of VKORC1 rs7294 carrier patients have INR <1.63, a mark of the 25% of lower responders of the wild genotype. Our study provided another kind of evidence that VKORC1 rs7294, CYP2C9 rs1057910, CYP4F2 rs2108622 and ORM1 rs17650 affected the action of warfarin in different styles. Patients with AA/*1*1/CC/*S*S, AA/*1*3/CC/*S*S should use a less initial dosage to avoid over anticoagulation, and patients with VKORC1 rs7294 should use larger initial dose to proof an effective therapy.

[Assessment of quality of life after multiple arthroplasty]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of conducting multiple arthroplasty to treat multiple joints disease in terms of quality of life (QOL) and function improvement.

METHODS

We compared our results with the reported results of single and dual arthroplasty to see if there is any improvement in QOL, functional scores or complications. In this study, 13 patients admitted to Department of Adult Reconstructive Surgery, Beijing Jishuitan hospital from 2005 to 2009 were included. Questionnaires SF-36 were used to evaluate the QOL. Harris hip score, American Knee Society Score (KSS) were used to evaluate the joint function. The patients were evaluated before surgery to the latest follow up.

RESULTS

SF-36 has changed as follow: physical function 4.17 ± 14.43 → 65.83 ± 24.76, role physical 25.00 ± 26.11 → 60.42 ± 45.8, bodily pain 23.83 ± 21.41 → 76.88 ± 20.89, general health 53.33 ± 33.87 → 76.67 ± 14.67, vitality 50.42 ± 17.25 → 71.67 ± 16.28, social functioning 29.17 ± 33.50 → 73.96 ± 33.90, role emotional 22.08 ± 35.61 → 77.77 ± 41.03, mental health 53.33 ± 25.70 → 82.67 ± 14.41, which indicated that they all improved greatly after the surgery (P < 0.05). Harris score increased from 37.68 ± 14.71 before the surgery to 83.36 ± 13.54 after the surgery. KSS has also showed sharp improvement (P < 0.001) in both clinical score (42.52 ± 23.83 → 77.74 ± 20.67) and function score (-2.61 ± 22.56 → 65.65 ± 30.76).

CONCLUSION

Multiple arthroplasty is one of the most effective methods which can markedly improve the quality of life in patients with multiple joints disease. But complications are common and joint functions are relatively poor.

[Comparative study of total hip arthroplasty with subtrochanteric osteotomy for treating Hartofilakidis types C1 and C2 developmental dysplasia of the hip]

OBJECTIVE

To compare efficacies and complications of total hip arthroplasty (THA) with subtrochanteric osteotomy for treating patients with Hartofilakidis types C1 and C2 developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH).

METHODS

Retrospective analysis was performed in 32 patients with DDH who underwent THA. These patients were divided into two groups according to Hartofilakidis classification, 17 patients in type C1 and 15 in type C2. Their HSS and WOMAC scores, leg length discrepancy (LLD), hip joint image data and complications were evaluated.

RESULTS

HSS scores in type C1 was changed from preoperative 43.7±4.6 to postoperative 87.2±7.1 (P<0.001), together with WOMAC scores 43.6±4.3 to 87.5±6.7 (P<0.001). HSS scores in type C2 was changed from preoperative 44.4±5.4 to postoperative 86.5±8.0 (P<0.001), together with WOMAC scores 44.1±4.1 to 86.7±8.1 (P<0.001). Four cases in type C2 and one case in type C1 presented intraoperative fracture which all healed during the postoperative follow-up. The postoperative X-ray films showed that the joint prosthesis location was satisfactory, the surrounding bone was not dissolved and the bone at femur osteotomy site healed with no infection.

CONCLUSION

For unilateral high dislocation DDH patients, THA with femur osteotomy can be effective and safe. No significant differences were found between types C1 and C2, however intraoperative fracture in type C2 should be paid attention to.

Competitive binding between miR-122 and p68 onto hepatitis C viral RNA

BACKGROUND

Liver-specific microRNA (miR)-122 has been shown to be involved in regulating translation of hepatitis C viral (HCV) RNA. This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism of miR-122 in regulating HCV RNA translation initiation.

MATERIAL/METHODS

In human liver hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG2, UV cross-link assay was performed on a large scale to identify RNA-binding proteins with gradient concentrations of miR-122. Analytical ultracentrifugation was then used to separate the translation initiation complexes. All RNA-binding proteins were then identified by Western blotting.

RESULTS

The binding of 68 kDa protein (p68) to HCV RNA was suppressed by the addition of miR-122 via the competitive binding assay. Such inhibition can be eliminated by the addition of 2'-O-methylated oligonucleotides. This binding suppression was determined to be specific for miR-122, which used the mature single-stranded RNA to suppress the binding of p68 onto HCV RNA. This binding inhibition was further validated by using authentic miR-122 with conserved regions and mutated sequences.

CONCLUSIONS

The binding of p68 onto HCV RNA can be specifically inhibited by miR-122 via a competitive binding process.

FGF2 and FGFR1 signaling regulate functional recovery following cuprizone demyelination

In demyelinating diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, remyelination offers the potential to recover function of viable denuded axons by restoring saltatory conduction and/or protecting from further damage. Mice with genetic reduction of fibroblast growth factor 2 (Fgf2) or Fgf receptor 1 (Fgfr1) exhibit dramatically improved remyelination following experimental demyelination with cuprizone. The current studies are the first to test neurobehavioral outcomes with these gene deletions that improved remyelination. The cuprizone protocols used did not produce overt abnormalities but did reduce bilateral sensorimotor coordination (complex wheel task) and increase sociability (two chamber apparatus with novel mouse). A significant effect of genotype was observed on the complex wheel task but not in the sociability apparatus. Specifically, complex wheel velocities for Fgf2 nulls improved significantly after removal of cuprizone from the diet. This improvement in Fgf2 null mice occurred following either acute (6 weeks) or chronic (12 weeks) demyelination. Plp/CreERT:Fgfr1(fl/fl) mice administered tamoxifen at 10 weeks of cuprizone treatment to induce Fgfr1 knockdown also showed improved recovery of running velocities on the complex wheels. Therefore, constitutive deletion of Fgf2 or Fgfr1 knockdown in oligodendrocyte lineage cells is sufficient to overcome impairment of sensorimotor coordination after cuprizone demyelination.

Fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGFR1) modulation regulates repair capacity of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells following chronic demyelination

The adult mammalian brain contains multiple populations of endogenous progenitor cell types. However, following CNS trauma or disease, the regenerative capacity of progenitor populations is typically insufficient and may actually be limited by non-permissive or inhibitory signals in the damaged parenchyma. Remyelination is the most effective and simplest regenerative process in the adult CNS yet is still insufficient following repeated or chronic demyelination. Our previous in vitro studies demonstrated that fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) signaling inhibited oligodendrocyte progenitor (OP) differentiation into mature oligodendrocytes. Therefore, we questioned whether FGFR1 signaling may inhibit the capacity of OP cells to generate oligodendrocytes in a demyelinating disease model and whether genetically reducing FGFR1 signaling in oligodendrocyte lineage cells could enhance the capacity for remyelination. FGFR1 was found to be upregulated in the corpus callosum during cuprizone mediated demyelination and expressed on OP cells just prior to remyelination. Plp/CreER(T):Fgfr1(fl/fl) mice were administered tamoxifen to induce conditional Fgfr1 deletion in oligodendrocyte lineage cells. Tamoxifen administration during chronic demyelination resulted in reduced FGFR1 expression in OP cells. OP proliferation and population size were not altered one week after tamoxifen treatment. Tamoxifen was then administered during chronic demyelination and mice were given a six week recovery period without cuprizone in the chow. After the recovery period, OP numbers were reduced and the number of mature oligodendrocytes was increased, indicating an effect of FGFR1 reduction on OP differentiation. Importantly, tamoxifen administration in Plp/CreER(T):Fgfr1(fl/fl) mice significantly promoted remyelination and axon integrity. These results demonstrate a direct effect of FGFR1 signaling in oligodendrocyte lineage cells as inhibiting the repair capacity of OP cells following chronic demyelination in the adult CNS.

Acute rejection correlates with expression of major histocompatibility complex class I antigens on peripheral blood CD3(+)CD8(+) T-lymphocytes following skin transplantation in mice

This study investigated major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) antigen expression on peripheral blood T-cells after transplantation to assess its potential as an early marker of acute graft rejection (AGR). Using a mouse model with or without immunosuppressive treatment, the expression of MHC-I antigens on CD3(+)CD8(+) T-lymphocytes was assessed by flow cytometry following syngeneic graft (n = 138) or allograft (n = 138) skin transplantation. The occurrence of AGR was assessed by examining the degree of lymphocyte and monocyte infiltration in transplant biopsies. During AGR, expression of MHC-I antigens increased significantly compared with pre-transplant levels in the allograft group, even with immunosuppressive treatment. The highest expression of MHC-I antigens occurred 5 - 6 days before macroscopic rejection. These results suggest that expression of MHC-I antigens on peripheral blood CD3(+)CD8(+) T-lymphocytes could be used as an early marker for predicting AGR.

Long-term outcomes following repair or replacement in degenerative mitral valve disease

BACKGROUND

We studied whether mitral valvuloplasty (MVP) was superior to mitral valve replacement (MVR) in patients with degenerative mitral regurgitation (MR), and analyzed the independent risk factors for survival and reoperation.

METHODS

326 patients with degenerative MR underwent MVP (n = 241), mitral valve replacement (MVR) (n = 78) or emergent MVR due to failure of repair (EMVR). Clinical data were analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS

Thirty-day mortality was lower after MVP (2.5 %) compared to MVR (9.0 %) ( P < 0.05). Late survival at 1 and 5 years in the MVP group was 94.4 % and 84.3 % versus 80.4 % and 64.6 % in the MVR group ( P < 0.05), respectively. After adjusting the baseline characteristics by the propensity score method, a significant survival benefit was found for patients who underwent MVP. Multivariable analysis showed that MVR was an independent predictor of thirty-day mortality and survival. There was no significant difference in thirty-day mortality and survival between the EMVR and MVR groups. The need for reoperation was not significantly different between the MVP and MVR groups. In the MVP group, the risk factors for survival and reoperation were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

MVP is superior to MVR for the treatment of degenerative MR despite the impact of repair failure. Age less than 60 years, ring size to body surface area greater than 19.0, absence of a prosthetic ring and residual MR at the end of surgery (≥ 1/4) reduce the durability of MVP.

Safe zone for transacetabular screw fixation in prosthetic acetabular reconstruction of high developmental dysplasia of the hip

BACKGROUND

Prosthetic reconstruction of hips with Crowe type-IV developmental dysplasia (a high complete dislocation) is technically demanding. Insufficient osseous coverage and osteopenic bone stock frequently necessitate transacetabular screw fixation to augment primary stability of the metal acetabular shell. We sought to determine whether a previously reported quadrant system for screw fixation of the acetabular cup can be applied in patients with high dislocation of the hip and to define a specialized safe zone for screw fixation in these hips, if needed.

METHODS

Using volumetric computed tomographic data and image-processing software, we made three-dimensional reconstructions of the osseous and vascular structures in eighteen hips in twelve patients. We virtually reconstructed a cup in the true acetabulum and dynamically simulated transacetabular screw fixation. We mapped the hemispheric cup into several areas and, for each, measured the distance between the virtual screw and the external iliac (femoral) and obturator blood vessels. In the six patients with unilateral high dislocation of the hip and a relatively normal, contralateral hip, the six relatively normal hips served as controls.

RESULTS

Reconstruction of the cup at the level of the true acetabulum shifted the center of rotation anteroinferiorly in the hips with a high, complete dislocation. Screws guided by the quadrant system frequently injured the obturator blood vessels in the hips with a high dislocation. In these patients, the safe zone shifted as a result of moving the prosthetic cup.

CONCLUSIONS

The quadrant system, although helpful in determining screw placement in hips with a normal center of rotation, can be misleading and of less value in guiding screw insertion to augment acetabular shells for hips with a high dislocation. We believe that a safe zone specific to hips with a high dislocation should be used to guide transacetabular screw fixation.

Scavenger Receptor Class B Type I Mediates Cell Entry of Hepatitis C Virus

This study assessed the functional role of human scavenger receptor class B type I (SR-BI) as a putative hepatitis C virus (HCV) receptor using Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells transfected with human SR-BI (CHO–huSR-BI). The expression of SR-BI by primary Tupaia hepatocytes (PTHs), human hepatocarcinoma cell line (HepG2) cells, untransfected CHO cells and CHO–huSR-BI cells was analysed by Western blotting. Receptor competition assays showed that anti-SR-BI antibodies that block the binding of soluble envelope glycoprotein E2 could prevent HCV infection. Pre-incubation of CHO–huSR-BI and HepG2 cells with anti-SR-BI antibodies resulted in marked inhibition of E2 binding. After incubation with HCV RNA-positive serum from a patient with chronic HCV infection, however, HCV infection could not be detected in CHO–huSR-BI cells, but was detected in PTHs. These results demonstrate that, whilst SR-BI represents an important cell surface molecule for HCV infection, the presence of SR-BI alone is insufficient for HCV entry.

Current through single conjugated molecules: calculations versus measurements

We use density functional theory based nonequilibrium Green's function to calculate the current through the different rodlike molecules at the finite temperatures self-consistently, which was compared to the experimental measurements presented by Reichert et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 88, 176804 (2002)] and by Mayor et al. [Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 42, 5834 (2003)], respectively. Our results agree with the measurements very well, especially for the bias around +/-1.0 V. The investigation of the topological effect for the symmetrical molecule reveals the fact that the para position compound provides a considerably larger conductance than the meta one.

Musashi1 RNA-binding protein regulates oligodendrocyte lineage cell differentiation and survival

Expression of Musashi1 (Msi1), an evolutionarily conserved RNA‐binding protein, in neural stem cells of the subventricular zone in the postnatal and adult CNS indicates a potential role in the generation of oligodendrocytes. We now show Msi1 expression in a subset of oligodendrocyte progenitor (OP) cells in white matter areas temporally and spatially associated with oligodendrogenesis in the postnatal CNS. Msi1 function was evaluated by infection of OP cells with retroviral transduction of Msi1 or knockdown of endogenous Msi1. Retroviral expression of Msi1 significantly reduced the proportion of mature oligodendrocytes generated from OP cells in vitro and in vivo during myelination. Msi1 transduction also promoted OP survival, particularly under conditions of challenge from oxidative stress, while Msi1 siRNA knockdown resulted in dramatic OP cell death. Furthermore, in experimental demyelination Msi1 expression was increased among cells associated with lesions, including OP cells, indicating a potential role in the generation of remyelinating oligodendrocytes. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.

Fibroblast growth factor receptor-1 is required for long-term potentiation, memory consolidation, and neurogenesis

BACKGROUND

Although substantial evidence supports the view that adult neurogenesis is involved in learning and memory, how newly generated neurons contribute to the cognitive process remains unknown. Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) is known to stimulate the proliferation of neuronal progenitor cells (NPCs) in adult brain. Using conditional knockout mice that lack brain expression of FGFR1, a major receptor for FGF-2, we have investigated the role of adult neurogenesis in hippocampal synaptic plasticity and learning and memory.

METHODS

The Fgfr1 conditional knockout mice were generated by crossing the Fgfr1-null line, the Fgfr1-flox line, and the Nestin-Cre transgenic mice. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) labeling, slice electrophysiology, and Morris Water Maze experiments were performed with the Fgfr1 conditional mutant mice.

RESULTS

Bromodeoxyuridine labeling experiments demonstrate that FGFR1 is required for the proliferation of NPCs as well as generation of new neurons in the adult dentate gyrus (DG). Moreover, deficits in neurogenesis in Fgfr1 mutant mice are accompanied by a severe impairment of long-term potentiation (LTP) at the medial perforant path (MPP)-granule neuron synapses in the hippocampal dentate. Moreover, the Fgfr1 mutant mice exhibit significant deficits in memory consolidation but not spatial learning.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests a critical role of FGFR1 in adult neurogenesis in vivo, provides a potential link between proliferative neurogenesis and dentate LTP, and raises the possibility that adult neurogenesis might contribute to memory consolidation.

Ab initiostudy of single-molecule rotation switch based on nonequilibrium Green’s function theory

The bistable molecular switches have been studied theoretically based on the first-principles calculation. The geometry structures of the switches studied in this paper can be triggered between two symmetrical structures by using an external applied electric field. I-V characteristic curves of the different molecule configurations have been calculated, and distinguishability of these characteristic curves indicates a switching behavior, the performance of which can be improved significantly by some suitable donors and acceptors.

Validation of the mainland Chinese version of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire (IBDQ) for ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory bowel disease affects the quality of a patient's life in many ways, but no validated instrument for measuring disease-specific quality of life in these patients is available for use in Mainland China. The aim of our study was to develop and validate the Mainland Chinese translation of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire for ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) by assessing its construct validity, discriminant ability, reliability, and sensitivity to change.

METHODS

We administered a developed Mainland Chinese version of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire (IBDQ). Ninety-two Mainland Chinese patients (52 with UC and 40 with CD) completed the Mainland Chinese version of the IBDQ, the Chinese version of SF-36, and the global scale for general well-being. A subgroup of 71 patients also completed the Mainland Chinese version of the IBDQ and the global scales for general well-being on a second occasion. Clinical activity was assessed by the Walmsley and Harvey-Bradshaw simple indices.

RESULTS

The Mainland Chinese IBDQ scores correlated well with the related SF-36 dimensional scores for all 4 domains (r = 0.51-0.82), SF-36 total scores (r = 0.58-0.87), the colitis activity index (r = -0.56-0.74), and the CD activity index (r = -0.64-0.78) as well as with the global scales. The Mainland Chinese IBDQ was able to discriminate between active and inactive disease. Cronbach's alpha was 0.95 in UC and 0.94 in CD. Test-retest reliability was excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.69-0.93) when it was repeated in patients whose clinical activity index was stable. In contrast, there was a significant difference between the baseline and follow-up measurements in patients whose clinical activity index was changed.

CONCLUSIONS

The Mainland Chinese IBDQ proved to be a valid, discriminative, and reliable instrument for assessing health-related quality of life in patients with UC and CD in Mainland China.

Interaction of fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) and notch signaling components in inhibition of oligodendrocyte progenitor (OP) differentiation

Oligodendrocyte progenitor (OP) cell differentiation is a critical process of developmental myelination, tumor formation, and remyelination in the CNS. Activation of the fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) or notch pathway can inhibit differentiation of OP cells. The current study examines the interaction of FGF2 and notch signaling components in regulating OP differentiation. Cultured neonatal rat brain OP cells were used for transfection-based promoter assays and for infection with retroviruses expressing a GFP reporter to monitor OP differentiation into oligodendrocytes or astrocytes. FGF2 treatment resulted in a four-fold increase of transcriptional activity from the promoter region of Hes5, a notch pathway target gene. FGF2 inhibition of OP differentiation into oligodendrocytes was perturbed by retroviral expression of a dominant negative construct for mastermind-like 1, which is an important co-activator of transcription for notch target genes. OP differentiation into oligodendrocytes was reduced by co-culture with fibroblasts expressing Jagged1, a ligand for notch receptors. This Jagged1 inhibition of OP differentiation was not altered by retroviral expression of a dominant negative FGF receptor construct. Constitutive activation of notch signaling, by retroviral expression of the Notch1 intracellular domain, greatly reduced OP differentiation into either oligodendrocytes or astrocytes and did not require FGF2 signaling. These findings indicate that inhibition of OP differentiation through the Notch1 pathway was not influenced by FGF2 signaling. However, FGF2 signaling may interact with down stream components of the notch signaling pathway, including mastermind-like1 and Hes5, to inhibit OP differentiation into oligodendrocytes.

VEGF-Targeted RNA Interference Suppresses Angiogenesis and Tumor Growth of Retinoblastoma

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is one of the most important angiogenic growth factors for tumor angiogenesis which has been verified to be involved in neovascularization of retinoblastoma. Here, we sought to explore whether RNA interference (RNAi) targeting VEGF could inhibit retinoblastoma angiogenesis and tumor growth. Stable transfection of the two human retinoblastoma cell lines SO-RB50 and HXO-RB44 with VEGF-targeted small interfering RNA (siRNA) expression plasmid significantly inhibited VEGF expression determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot, whereas the control transfection showed no effects. The chemically synthesized VEGF siRNA dramatically suppressed tumor angiogenesis (CD34 immunohistochemistry) and tumor growth in the SO-RB50 subcutaneous xenograft model. Significant downregulation of VEGF expression both on messenger RNA and protein levels in VEGF-siRNA-treated SO-RB50 subcutaneous xenograft was confirmed by real-time PCR and Western blot compared to control. Our data demonstrate the suppression function on angiogenesis and tumor growth of retinoblastoma by VEGF-targeted RNAi. This novel therapeutic strategy promises to play a part in the clinical management of retinoblastoma.

Self-consistent study of single molecular transistor modulated by transverse field

We use a self-consistent method to study the current of the single molecular transistor modulated by the transverse field in the level of the density functional theory and the nonequilibrium Green function method. The numerical results show that both the polyacene-dithiol molecules and the fused-ring thiophene molecules are the potential high-frequency molecular transistors controlled by the transverse field. The longer molecules of the polyacene-dithiol or the fused-ring thiophene are in favor of realizing the gate-bias controlled molecular transistor. The theoretical results suggest the related experiments.

Endogenous cell repair of chronic demyelination

In multiple sclerosis lesions, remyelination typically fails with repeated or chronic demyelinating episodes and results in neurologic disability. Acute demyelination models in rodents typically exhibit robust spontaneous remyelination that prevents appropriate evaluation of strategies for improving conditions of insufficient remyelination. In the current study, we used a mouse model of chronic demyelination induced by continuous ingestion of 0.2% cuprizone for 12 weeks. This chronic process depleted the oligodendrocyte progenitor population and impaired oligodendrocyte regeneration. Remyelination remained limited after removal of cuprizone from the diet. Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) expression was persistently increased in the corpus callosum of chronically demyelinated mice as compared with nonlesioned mice. We used FGF2^−/− mice to determine whether removal of endogenous FGF2 promoted remyelination of chronically demyelinated areas. Wild-type and FGF2^−/− mice exhibited similar demyelination during chronic cuprizone treatment. Importantly, in contrast to wild-type mice, the FGF2^−/− mice spontaneously remyelinated completely during the recovery period after chronic demyelination. Increased remyelination in FGF2^−/− mice correlated with enhanced oligodendroglial regeneration. FGF2 genotype did not alter the density of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells or proliferating cells after chronic demyelination. These findings indicate that attenuating FGF2 created a sufficiently permissive lesion environment for endogenous cells to effectively remyelinate viable axons even after chronic demyelination.

Correlation between TIMP-1 expression and liver fibrosis in two rat liver fibrosis models

AIM: To evaluate serum TIMP-1 level and the correlation between TIMP-1 expression and liver fibrosis in immune-induced and CCL₄-induced liver fibrosis models in rats.

METHODS: Immune-induced and CCL₄-induced liver fibrosis models were established by dexamethasone (0.01 mg) and CCL₄ respectively. Serum TIMP-1 level was detected with ELISA, while histopathological grade of liver biopsy was evaluated. Spearman rank-correlation test was used to analyse the difference of the correlation between the TIMP-1 expression and hepatic fibrosis in the two fibrosis models. Furthermore, in situ hybridization was used to determine the expression difference of TIMP-1 mRNA in the two models.

RESULTS: Positive correlation existed between serum TIMP-1 level of immune induced group and the histopathological stages of fibrosis liver of corresponding rats (Spearman rank-correlation test, r_s = 0.812, P ＜ 0.05), and the positive in situ hybridization signal of TIMP-1 mRNA was strong. In CCL₄-induced liver fibrosis model, the correlation between the serum TIMP-1 level and the severity of hepatic fibrosis was not statistically significant(Spearman rank-correlation test, r_s = 0.229, P ＞ 0.05). And compared with immune-induced model, the positive in situ hybridization signal of TIMP-1 mRNA was weaker, while the expression variation was higher in hepatic fibrosis of the same severity.

CONCLUSION: The correlations between TIMP-1 expression and liver fibrosis in two rat liver fibrosis models are different. In immune-induced model, serum TIMP-1 level could reflect the severity of liver fibrosis, while in CCL₄-induced model, the correlation between the serum TIMP-1 level and the severity of hepatic fibrosis was not statistically significant.

Antisense oligonucleotides-based inhibition of gene and protein expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 on experimental liver fibrosis in rats

AIM: To investigate the inhibitory effect of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) targeted antisense oligonucleotide (asON) on the progress of experimental liver fibrosis in rats.

METHODS: Twenty-two rats were divided into asON treatment (n = 6), model (n = 6), and normal control group (n = 10). The liver fibrosis model was induced by human serum albumin (HSA). During modeling, the rats were treated with antisense oligonucleotides via tail vein. The level of TIMP-2 expression was detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), in situ hybridization, immunohistochemical staining and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The effect of asON on liver fibrosis was analyzed by histopathological exami-nation, immunohistochemical staining of collagenⅠand Ⅳ, and special staining of collagen fiber as well as electron microscopy.

RESULTS: The pathological grading was notably im-proved in asON group than that in model group (u = 2.071, P <0.05). The serum and tissue expression of TIMP-2 were lower in asON group than those in model group (T = 55, P <0.05; t = 3.332, P <0.05), but higher than those in the control (T = 55, P <0.05; t = 5.550, P <0.05). Image quantitative analysis for immunohistochemical staining of collagen Ⅳ showed that the value was significant decreased in asON group as compared with that in model group (t = 2.310, P <0.05), but still higher than that in the control (t = 3.623, P <0.05); The value for collagenⅠwas also decreased in asON group as compared with that in model group (t = 2.845, P <0.05). Less collagen deposition was found in the hepatic sinusoid of asON group, which was not significantly different from that of model group.

CONCLUSION: TIMP-2 targeted asON can inhibit the progress of experimental liver fibrosis in rats.

PDGF and FGF2 pathways regulate distinct oligodendrocyte lineage responses in experimental demyelination with spontaneous remyelination

Repair of myelin damage in the adult CNS requires oligodendrocyte progenitor (OP) proliferation and subsequent differentiation into remyelinating oligodendrocytes. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) have been predicted to act individually and/or cooperatively to generate remyelinating oligodendrocytes. Analysis of PDGF alpha receptor (PDGF alpha R) heterozygous (+/-) mice indicates that PDGF alpha R expression modulates oligodendrocyte density in non-lesioned adult CNS. Analysis of cuprizone demyelination and recovery in PDGF alpha R+/- mice, FGF2 knockout (-/-) mice, and PDGF alpha R+/- FGF2-/- mice demonstrated that: (1) OP proliferation and oligodendrocyte regeneration is impaired in PDGF alpha R heterozygotes, (2) PDGF alpha R+/- and FGF2-/- deletions do not act cooperatively to impair OP amplification, (3) oligodendrocyte differentiation is more frequent in FGF2-/- mice, and (4) FGF2 deletion in combination with the PDGF alpha R+/- genotype rescues impaired oligodendrocyte regeneration of PDGF alpha R heterozygotes. These findings demonstrate distinct roles for PDGF and FGF2 in vivo in the context of a demyelinating disease with spontaneous remyelination.

Construction of expression vector containing TGF-βRII-IgG1 Fc genes

AIM: To construct recombinant human retroviral vector carrying soluble TGFβ₁ Type II receptor (TβR II) gene.

METHODS: The cDNA fragments of human TβRII and IgG1 Fc were amplified by RT-PCR from total RNAs of peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The purified cDNA fragments were ligated and subcloned into vector pGEM-T-Easy to get the fusion gene of TβRII-IgG1Fc. The fusion gene was then subcloned into retroviral vector pLXSN. The obtained recombinant retroviral vector pL (TβRII-IgG1-Fc) SN was transfected into PA317 cells and selected with G418. The stable expression of the TβRII-IgG1-Fc fusion gene in positive clones was identified by RT-PCR.

RESULTS: The restriction endonuclease digestion results and DNA sequencing indicated that the retroviral vector pL (TβRII-IgG1 Fc) SN was successfully constructed. The TβRII-IgG1 Fc fusion gene was integrated into the PA317 genome and expressed stably in the host cells.

CONCLUSION: The target retroviral vector pL(TβRII-IgG1 Fc) SN was constructed successfully. It provides an effective tool for gene therapy and will lay a foundation for clinical treatment of liver fibrosis.

Induction of hepatitis C virus-specific cytotoxic T and B cell responses by dendritic cells expressing a modified antigen targeting receptor

AIM: To find a novel antigen (Ag) presentation strategy to improve the immune responses induced by dendritic cell (DC) vaccine expressing hepatitis C virus (HCV) core antigen (pcDNA 3HCV C-Fc) in Balb/c mice (H-2d).

METHODS: pcDNA 3HCV C-Fc plasmid and eukaryotic expression vector pcDNA3 were injected into mice sc. Immune responses to pcDNA 3HCV C-Fc were studied. Meanwhile the effect of pcDNA 3HCV C-Fc on anti-translated subcutaneous tumor of SP2/0 cells stably expressing HCV C Ag (SP2/0-HCV C-FC) was also studied. Anti-HCV C in serum was detected by enzyme-linked immunoadsordent assay (ELISA) and HCV specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity was measured by LDH release assay. After 3 wk of DNA immunization, the cells of SP2/0-HCV C-FC were inoculated into mice subcutaneously and tumor growth was measured every 5 d. The survival rate and living time of mice were also calculated.

RESULTS: After 4 wk of DC immunization, the A_{450 nm} values of sera in mice immunized with pcDNA 3HCV C-Fc-DC and pcDNA3-DC were 0.56±0.17 and 0.12±0.03 respectively. The antibody titres in mice codeliveried with pcDNA 3HCV C-Fc with DC were significantly higher than those of mice injected with pcDNA3-DC. The HCV specific CTL activities in mice coinjected with DC and pcDNA 3HCV C-Fc or empty expression vectors were(73.2±3.1) % and (24.4±8.8) % , which were significantly higher than those of mice injected with water. The DC vaccine could evidently inhibit tumor growth, prolong the survival time of mice and improve the survival rate of mice and these effects could be improved by HCV C-Fc (pcDNA 3HCV C-Fc) gene codelivered.

CONCLUSION: DC vaccine has a strong antigenicity in humoral and cellular immunities, which can be promoted by transduced pcDNA 3HCV C-Fc expressing HCV C or Fc. Thus, pcDNA 3HCV C-Fc-transduced DCs may be a promising candidate for a CTL-based vaccine against HCV.

In vivo analysis of oligodendrocyte lineage development in postnatal FGF2 null mice

Analysis of fibroblast growth factor 2 null (FGF2-/-) and wild-type (FGF2+/+) mice was used to interpret the potential in vivo role of endogenous FGF2 on oligodendrocyte lineage cell (OLC) responses during oligodendrogenesis and myelination. In wild-type mouse spinal cord, FGF2 levels increased approximately threefold between the first and second postnatal weeks, a period corresponding with the peak of oligodendrogenesis. Absence of this developmental FGF2 elevation in FGF2-/- mice eliminated the transient overproduction of oligodendrocytes that is known to occur at the peak of oligodendrogenesis in wild-type mice. Absence of FGF2 did not affect oligodendrocyte progenitor (OP) density or proliferation, based on BrdU incorporation, and also did not alter survival, based on TUNEL analysis. To examine OLC differentiation in vivo, retrovirus encoding-enhanced green fluorescent protein (GFP) was injected into the spinal cord to heritably label endogenous cycling cells in the white matter at postnatal day 7 and then identify the generated cells at postnatal day 28. Phenotypes of cells expressing GFP were identified by morphology and immunolabeling, using CC1 for oligodendrocytes and NG2 combined with platelet-derived growth factor alpha receptor for OPs. Within the population of GFP-labeled cells, the proportion of oligodendrocytes was higher in FGF2-/- mice, indicating that endogenous FGF2 inhibited OLC differentiation in wild-type mice. Furthermore, in FGF2-/- mice fewer cells appeared to be generated from an initial retrovirus-labeled cell, consistent with more frequent differentiation into post-mitotic oligodendrocytes. This in vivo analysis demonstrates that the predominant role of endogenous FGF2 on OLCs in development is inhibition of differentiation.

DC-SIGN: binding receptors for hepatitis C virus

OBJECTIVE

To review the recent developments in and research into binding receptors of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and especially the role of dendritic cell-specific adhesion receptor (DC-SIGN) in HCV.

DATA SOURCES

Both Chinese- and English-language literature was searched using MEDLINE (2000 - 2003) and the databank of Chinese-language literature (2000 - 2003).

STUDY SELECTION

Relevant articles on DC-SIGN and HCV binding receptors in recent domestic and foreign literature were selected.

DATA EXTRACTION

Data were mainly extracted from 40 articles which are listed in the references section of this review.

RESULTS

DC-SIGN, a dendritic cell-specific adhesion receptor and a type II transmembrane mannose-binding C-type lectin, is very important in the function of dendritic cells (DC), both in mediating naïve T cell interactions through ICAM-3 and as a rolling receptor that mediates the DC-specific ICAM-2-dependent migration processes. It can be used by HCV and other viral and bacterial pathogens including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Ebola virus, CMV and Mycobacterium tuberculosis to facilitate infection. Both DC-SIGN and DC-SIGNR can act either in cis, by concentrating virus on target cells, or in trans, by transmission of bound virus to a target cell expressing appropriate entry receptors. Recent report showed that DC-SIGN not only plays a role in entry into DC, HCV E2 interaction with DC-SIGN might also be detrimental to the interaction of DC with T cells during antigen presentation.

CONCLUSIONS

DC-SIGNs are high-affinity binding receptors for HCV. The clinical strategies that target DC-SIGN may be successful in restricting HCV dissemination and pathogenesis as well as directing the migration of DCs to manipulate appropriate immune responses in autoimmunity and tumorigenic situations.