[Analysis of the clinical characteristics of acute myeloid leukemia related to the treatment of hematological and solid tumors]

Objective: To compare and analyze the clinical characteristics of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) related to the treatment of hematological tumors and solid tumors. Methods: The laboratory and clinical data of 41 patients with treatment-related AML (t-AML) in the Department of Hematology, Henan Cancer Hospital from January 2014 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed, and they were divided into hematological tumor group and solid tumor group. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method and Log rank test. Results: The median interval from the first tumor diagnosis to t-AML in 41 patients was 21.0 (16.5-46.0) months; 24 (58.5%) had abnormal expression of lymphoid antigen, 28 (68.3%) had abnormal karyotype, 18 cases (43.9%) were positive for fusion gene, and 28 cases (68.3%) were positive for gene mutation; the median recurrence-free survival (RFS) was 11.0 months, and the median overall survival (OS) was 11.5 months. The proportion of acute promyelocytic leukemia ([APL], 0.0, 0/13), complete response ([CR],18.2%, 2/11), median OS (4.5 months) and median RFS (2.5 months) of t-AML patients in the hematological tumor group were significantly lower than those in the solid tumor group (35.7%, 10/28; 68.0%, 17/25; not reach; not reach), but the proportion of M4 /M5 (93.2%,12/13) was significantly higher than that in the solid tumor group (53.6%,15/18; all P values<0.05). Through subgroup analysis, the proportion of patients with positive PML-RARa and good prognosis karyotypes in the solid tumor group (35.7%, 10/28; 46.4%, 13/28) was significantly higher than that in the hematological tumor group (0.0, 0/13; 0.0, 0/13; P<0.05), while the proportion of patients with intermediate karyotypes (42.9%, 12/28) was significantly lower than that in the hematological tumor group (84.6%, 11/13; P<0.05), the difference was statistically significant. The CR rate (90.0%, 9/10), median OS (not reach) and median RFS (not reach) in the t-APL group were higher than those in the t-AML (without t-APL) group (38.5%, 10/26; 6 months; 8 months; P<0.05). After excluding the effect of t-APL patients, there was no significant difference in the CR rate, median OS and median RFS between the solid tumor group (8; 9 months; not reach) and the hematological tumor group (2; 4 months; 2 months; P>0.05). Univariate analysis showed that the primary tumor belongs to hematological tumor was a common risk factor for OS and RFS in t-AML patients (P<0.10). Conclusions: Compared with patients with t-AML secondary to solid tumors, patients with t-AML secondary to hematological tumors have poorer treatment effects and poorer prognosis. After excluding the effect of t-APL patients, there are no significant differences in the treatment efficacy and prognosis between the two types of t-AML patients.

Insights into the genetic variability and evolutionary dynamics of tomato spotted wilt orthotospovirus in China

BACKGROUND

Viral diseases are posing threat to annual production and quality of tobacco in China. Recently, tomato spotted wilt orthotospovirus (TSWV) has been reported to infect three major crops including tobacco. Current study was aimed to investigate the population dynamics and molecular diversity of the TSWV. In the current study, to assess and identify the prevalence and evolutionary history of TSWV in tobacco crops in China, full-length genome sequences of TSWV isolates from tobacco, were identified and analyzed.

METHODS

After trimming and validation, sequences of new isolates were submitted to GenBank. We identified the full-length genomes of ten TSWV isolates, infecting tobacco plants from various regions of China. Besides these, six isolates were partially sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis was performed to assess the relativeness of newly identified sequences and corresponding sequences from GenBank. Recombination and population dynamics analysis was performed using RDP4, RAT, and statistical estimation. Reassortment analysis was performed using MegaX software.

RESULTS

Phylogenetic analysis of 41 newly identified sequences, depicted that the majority of the Chinese isolates have separate placement in the tree. RDP4 software predicted that RNA M of newly reported isolate YNKM-2 had a recombinant region spanning from 3111 to 3811 bp. The indication of parental sequences (YNKMXD and YNHHKY) from newly identified isolates, revealed the conservation of local TSWV population. Genetic diversity and population dynamics analysis also support the same trend. RNA M was highlighted to be more capable of mutating or evolving as revealed by data obtained from RDP4, RAT, population dynamics, and phylogenetic analyses. Reassortment analysis revealed that it might have happened in L segment of TSWV isolate YNKMXD (reported herein).

CONCLUSION

Taken together, this is the first detailed study revealing the pattern of TWSV genetic diversity, and population dynamics helping to better understand the ability of this pathogen to drastically reduce the tobacco production in China. Also, this is a valuable addition to the existing worldwide profile of TSWV, especially in China, where a few studies related to TSWV have been reported including only one complete genome of this virus isolated from tobacco plants.

[Femtosecond laser assisted cataract surgery in a complicated cataract patient with reverse implantable collamer len: a case report]

The patient is a 33-year-old female who, 11 years ago, underwent bilateral posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens (pIOL) implantation due to myopia. She presented with a 2-year history of declining vision in her right eye and sought medical attention. She received femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery combined with pIOL extraction. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography and ultrasound biomicroscopy both showed an inverted pIOL in the right eye. Good visual results were achieved, and there were no complications during the six-month follow-up.

[The predictive values of platelet mitochondrial mass and quantity during the perioperative period in elderly patients on the occurrence of postoperative delirium]

Objective: To investigate the changes of platelet mitochondrial mass and quantity during perioperative period in elderly patients, and assess their predictive values on the occurrence of postoperative delirium (POD). Methods: In this prospective study, 162 elderly patients scheduled for abdominal surgery under general anesthesia were enrolled from November 2021 to January 2022 in Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University Medical School. Among them, 20 patients [10 males, 10 females, aged (71.4±6.8) years] developed POD within 3 days after surgery (POD group), and another 20 patients[12 males, 8 females, aged (67.7±5.3) years] who did not develope POD were selected as controls (control group) using propensity score matching method. Blood samples were collected preoperatively, at the end of surgery and on the first postoperative day. Platelets were extracted and mitochondrial mass was detected with flow cytometry. Transmission electron microscopy was used to determine mitochondrial quantity. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was drawn to analyze the value of mitochondrial mass and quantity in predicting the occurrence of POD. Results: The mean fluorescence intensities of platelet mitochondrial mass were 193±46, 236±61, 264±53 preoperatively, at the end of surgery and on the first postoperative day in the POD group, respectively. The corresponding values were 209±61, 191±67 and 201±56 in the control group. The platelet mitochondrial mass of patients in the POD group was significantly increased on the first postoperative day compared to preoperative levels (P<0.001). In contrast, there was no significant difference in the control group (P=0.410). Patients in the POD group had higher platelet mitochondrial mass than patients in the control group on the first postoperative day(P=0.002). Meanwhile, platelets from patients in the POD group showed significantly higher number of mitochondria than platelets from patients in the control group [3 (2, 4) vs 2 (1, 2), P<0.001]. According to the ROC curve of platelet on the first postoperative day, at a mitochondrial mass cut-off value of>275.35, the sensitivity, specificity and area under the ROC curve to detect the occurrence of POD were 55%, 90% and 0.800 (95%CI: 0.666-0.934, P<0.001). At a mitochondrial quantity cut-off value of>2, the sensitivity, specificity and area under the ROC curve to detect the occurrence of POD were 53%, 78% and 0.680 (95%CI: 0.584-0.776, P<0.001). Conclusions: Patients who developed POD show higher platelet mitochondrial mass after surgery compared to preoperative levels. The mitochondrial mass of platelets on the first postoperative day has good predictive value on the occurrence of POD.

[Analysis of the prognosis and survival of patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure]

Objective: To explore the influencing factors and the impact of artificial liver treatment on the prognosis and survival of patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). Methods: Clinical data from 201 cases with ACLF from January 2016 to December 2019 was retrospectively analyzed. The survival rate was calculated by the Kaplan-Meier method, the log-rank test of univariate analysis, and the multivariate analysis of the stepwise Cox regression forward method. Results: The median survival time of patients was 6 months, and the survival rates at 6, 9, and 12 months were 51.2%, 38.3%, and 29.9%, respectively. In univariate analysis, age, presence or absence of hypertension and upper gastrointestinal bleeding, treatment method, model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score, and cholinesterase were associated with prognosis (P < 0.05). Multivariate regression analysis results showed that MELD score was the main factor affecting the 1-year prognosis of ACLF patients (P = 0.002). Artificial liver treatment was beneficial for the 1-year prognosis of ACLF patients aged < 50 years or with a MELD score of ≥20 (P < 0.05 ). The relative risk ratio (RR) of mortality was 2.55 times higher in patients with advanced age (≥50 years old) than that of younger patients (P < 0.001). Regression analysis was performed using age as a stratification factor, and upper gastrointestinal bleeding was related to the prognosis of younger patients, while choline esterase was related to the prognosis of advanced age. Regression analysis after stratified MELD score showed that age and hypertension were related to the prognosis of patients with MELD score < 20, and treatment method and age were related to the prognosis of patients with MELD score≥20. Conclusion: Artificial liver treatment is beneficial for the 1-year prognosis of ACLF patients. Age, MELD score, hypertension, and upper gastrointestinal bleeding are independent risk factors affecting the prognosis of ACLF patients.

[A case of left pulmonary artery sling combined with congenital tracheal stenosis in an adult]

Pulmonary artery sling in adults is a rare congenital vascular malformation usually accompanied by tracheal and bronchial stenosis. Due to its high mortality risk and relatively poor prognosis, it has rarely been reported in adults. We reported a middle-aged patient who presented with shortness of breath, predominantly after activity, since childhood. He was diagnosed with "tracheal stenosis" in another hospital and received symptomatic treatment. The diagnosis of left pulmonary artery sling with congenital tracheal stenosis was confirmed by multi-slice spiral CT (MSCT), airway examination with flexible bronchoscope and 3D image post-processing system. Data from this case and the related literatures have been summarized and analyzed. This will help clinicians to improve their level of diagnosis and treatment.

Prevalence, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of spontaneous portosystemic shunt in patients with hepatitis B-related cirrhosis: A multicenter study from China

BACKGROUND

The impact of spontaneous portosystemic shunt (SPSS) on decompensated events and mortality for patients with hepatitis B-related cirrhosis remains poorly investigated.

AIMS

To evaluate the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of SPSS among patients with hepatitis B-related cirrhosis.

METHODS

Patients who were diagnosed with hepatitis B-related cirrhosis were retrospectively recruited. All eligible patients were classified into SPSS and non-SPSS groups and their clinical characteristics and outcomes were compared and analyzed.

RESULTS

Of the 1282 patients included in this study, SPSS was identified in 488 patients (38.1%). SPSS group had more severe liver function impairment, higher prevalence and severity of esophageal and gastric varices (EGV), and a higher prevalence of EGV bleeding (EGVB), portal vein thrombosis (PVT), hepatic encephalopathy (HE), ascites, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC, all P<0.05). During the follow-up period, SPSS group experienced a significantly higher incidence of EGVB, PVT, and HE (all P<0.05); however, there was no significant difference in the incidence of ascites, HCC, and mortality between the two groups (all P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

With hepatitis B-related cirrhosis, SPSS was common and characterized by severe liver damage and a high prevalence of decompensated events. Moreover, patients with SPSS had higher risks of EGVB, PVT, and HE.

[Analysis of the characteristics of viral infections in children with diarrhea in Beijing from 2018 to 2022]

Objective: To explore the characteristics of viral infections in children with diarrhea in Beijing from 2018 to 2022. Methods: Real-time PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were used to detect viral nucleic acid of Norovirus (NoV), Sappovirus (SaV), Astrovirus (AstV), Enteric Adenovirus (AdV) or antigen of Rotavirus (RV) in 748 stool samples collected from Beijing Capital Institute of Pediatrics from January 2018 to December 2021. Subsequently, the reverse transcription PCR or PCR method was used to amplify the target gene of the positive samples after the initial screening, followed by sequencing, genotyping and evolution analysis, so as to obtain the characteristics of these viruses. Phylogenetic analysis was performed using Mega 6.0. Results: From 2018 to 2021, the overall detection rate of the above five common viruses was 37.6%(281/748)in children under 5 years old in Beijing. NoV, Enteric AdV and RV were still the top three diarrhea-related viruses, followed by AstV and SaV, accounting for 41.6%, 29.2%, 27.8%, 8.9% and 7.5%, respectively. The detection rate of co-infections with two or three diarrhea-related viruses was 4.7% (35/748). From the perspective of annual distribution, the detection rate of Enteric AdV was the highest in 2021, while NoV was predominant in the other 4 years. From the perspective of genetic characteristics, NoV was predominant by GII.4, and after the first detection of GII.4[P16] in 2020, it occupied the first two gene groups together with GII.4[P31]. Although the predominant RV was G9P[8], the rare epidemic strain G8P[8] was first detected in 2021. The predominant genotypes of Enteric AdV and AstV were Ad41 and HAstV-1. SaV was sporadic spread with a low detection rate. Conclusion: Among the diarrhea-related viruses infected children under 5 years of age in Beijing, the predominant strains of NoV and RV have changed and new sub-genotypes have been detected for the first time, while the predominant strains of AstV and Enteric AdV are relatively stable.

[Efficacy and prognostic factors of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation treatment for T lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma]

Objective: To analyze the efficacy and prognostic factors of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) for treating T lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (T-ALL/LBL) . Methods: This study retrospectively evaluated 119 adolescent and adult patients with T-ALL/LBL from January 2006 to January 2020 at Peking University Third Hospital and Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences. Patients were divided into chemotherapy-only, chemotherapy followed by allo-HSCT, and chemotherapy followed by autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (auto-HSCT) groups according to the consolidation regimen, and the 5-year overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) rates of each group were compared. Results: Among 113 patients with effective follow-up, 96 (84.9%) patients achieved overall response (ORR), with 79 (69.9%) having complete response (CR) and 17 (15.0%) having partial response (PR), until July 2022. The analysis of the 96 ORR population revealed that patients without transplantation demonstrated poorer outcomes compared with the allo-HSCT group (5-year OS: 11.4% vs 55.6%, P=0.001; 5-year PFS: 8.9% vs 54.2%, P<0.001). No difference was found in 5-year OS and 5-year PFS between the allo-HSCT and auto-HSCT groups (P=0.271, P=0.197). The same results were achieved in the CR population. Allo-HSCT got better 5-year OS (37.5% vs 0) for the 17 PR cases (P=0.064). Different donor sources did not affect 5-year OS, with sibling of 61.1% vs hap-haploidentical of 63.6% vs unrelated donor of 50.0% (P>0.05). No significant difference was found in the treatment response in the early T-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (ETP) and non-ETP populations. The ETP group demonstrated lower 5-year OS compared with the non-ETP group in the chemotherapy alone group (0 vs 12.6%, P=0.045), whereas no significant difference was found between the ETP and non-ETP groups in the allo-HSCT group (75.0% vs 62.9%, P=0.852). Multivariate analysis revealed that high serum lactate dehydrogenase level, without transplantation, and no CR after chemotherapy induction were independently associated with inferior outcomes (P<0.05) . Conclusion: Allo-HSCT could be an effective consolidation therapy for adult and adolescent patients with T-ALL/LBL. Different donor sources did not affect survival. Allo-HSCT may overcome the adverse influence of ETP-ALL/LBL on OS.

Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Evaluation of the Spatial Relationship between Brain Arteriovenous Malformations and the Corticospinal Tract to Predict Postsurgical Motor Defects

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Preoperative evaluation of brain AVMs is crucial for the selection of surgical candidates. Our goal was to use artificial intelligence to predict postsurgical motor defects in patients with brain AVMs involving motor-related areas.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighty-three patients who underwent microsurgical resection of brain AVMs involving motor-related areas were retrospectively reviewed. Four artificial intelligence-based indicators were calculated with artificial intelligence on TOF-MRA and DTI, including FN5mm/50mm (the proportion of fiber numbers within 5-50mm from the lesion border), FN10mm/50mm (the same but within 10-50mm), FP5mm/50mm (the proportion of fiber voxel points within 5-50mm from the lesion border), and FP10mm/50mm (the same but within 10-50mm). The association between the variables and long-term postsurgical motor defects was analyzed using univariate and multivariate analyses. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression with the Pearson correlation coefficient was used to select the optimal features to develop the machine learning model to predict postsurgical motor defects. The area under the curve was calculated to evaluate the predictive performance.

RESULTS

In patients with and without postsurgical motor defects, the mean FN5mm/50mm, FN10mm/50mm, FP5mm/50mm, and FP10mm/50mm were 0.24 (SD, 0.24) and 0.03 (SD, 0.06), 0.37 (SD, 0.27) and 0.06 (SD, 0.08), 0.06 (SD, 0.10) and 0.01 (SD, 0.02), and 0.10 (SD, 0.12) and 0.02 (SD, 0.05), respectively. Univariate and multivariate logistic analyses identified FN10mm/50mm as an independent risk factor for long-term postsurgical motor defects (P = .002). FN10mm/50mm achieved a mean area under the curve of 0.86 (SD, 0.08). The mean area under the curve of the machine learning model consisting of FN10mm/50mm, diffuseness, and the Spetzler-Martin score was 0.88 (SD, 0.07).

CONCLUSIONS

The artificial intelligence-based indicator, FN10mm/50mm, can reflect the lesion-fiber spatial relationship and act as a dominant predictor for postsurgical motor defects in patients with brain AVMs involving motor-related areas.

TRAF3IP2-IL-17 Axis Strengthens the Gingival Defense against Pathogens

Recent genome-wide association studies have suggested novel risk loci associated with periodontitis, which is initiated by dysbiosis in subgingival plaque and leads to destruction of teeth-supporting structures. One such genetic locus was the tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 3 interacting protein 2 (TRAF3IP2), a gene encoding the gate-keeping interleukin (IL)-17 receptor adaptor. In this study, we first determined that carriers of the lead exonic variant rs13190932 within the TRAF3IP2 locus combined with a high plaque microbial burden was associated with more severe periodontitis than noncarriers. We then demonstrated that TRAF3IP2 is essential in the IL-17-mediated CCL2 and IL-8 chemokine production in primary gingival epithelial cells. Further analysis suggested that rs13190932 may serve a surrogate variant for a genuine loss-of-function variant rs33980500 within the same gene. Traf3ip2 null mice (Traf3ip2^-/-) were more susceptible than wild-type (WT) mice to the Porphyromonas gingivalis-induced periodontal alveolar bone loss. Such bone loss was associated with a delayed P. gingivalis clearance and an attenuated neutrophil recruitment in the gingiva of Traf3ip2^-/- mice. Transcriptomic data showed decreased expression of antimicrobial genes, including Lcn2, S100a8, and Defb1, in the Traf3ip2^-/- mouse gingiva in comparison to WT mice prior to or upon P. gingivalis oral challenge. Further 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing analysis identified a distinct microbial community in the Traf3ip2^-/- mouse oral plaque, which was featured by a reduced microbial diversity and an overabundance of Streptococcus genus bacteria. More P. gingivalis was observed in the Traf3ip2^-/- mouse gingiva than WT control animals in a ligature-promoted P. gingivalis invasion model. In agreement, neutrophil depletion resulted in more local gingival tissue invasion by P. gingivalis. Thus, we identified a homeostatic IL-17-TRAF3IP2-neutrophil axis underpinning host defense against a keystone periodontal pathogen.

Efficient and fabrication error tolerant grating couplers on the InP membrane on silicon platform

In order to couple light between photonic integrated circuits and optical fibers, grating couplers are commonly employed. This paper describes the design and fabrication of deep and shallow-etched grating couplers with a metal back-reflector with record low insertion losses in InP-based platforms. The measured insertion losses for deep and shallow-etched gratings are 2.4 and 2.6 dB, respectively. Additionally, fabrication error tolerances in shallow etched grating couplers have been examined experimentally, which showed high tolerance of this structure toward the grating period and fill factor.

Splenic vein embolization as a feasible treatment for patients with hepatic encephalopathy related to large spontaneous splenorenal shunts

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Although splenic vein embolization (SVE) has been performed for the management of patients with hepatic encephalopathy (HE) related to large spontaneous splenorenal shunts (SSRS) in recent years, its role remains poorly defined. In this study, we aimed to explore the safety and efficacy of SVE for HE patients with large SSRS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from cirrhotic patients who were confirmed to have recurrent or persistent HE related to large SSRS and underwent SVE from January 2017 to April 2021 were retrospectively collected and analyzed at our center. The primary endpoints were the change of HE severity at 1 week after embolization and the recurrence of HE during the follow-up period. The secondary endpoints were procedure-related complications and changes in laboratory indicators and hepatic function (Child-Pugh score/grade and model for end-stage liver disease score).

RESULTS

Of the eight cirrhotic patients included in the study, six were diagnosed with recurrent HE, and the others were diagnosed with persistent HE. Embolization success was achieved for all patients (100%), and no immediate procedure-related complications, de novo occurrence, or aggravation of symptoms related to portal hypertension were observed during the long-term follow-up. HE status was assessed at 1 week after embolization. The results demonstrated that the symptoms were mitigated in three patients and resolved completely in five patients. During the follow-up period, all patients were free of HE within 1 month after embolization, but one patient experienced the recurrence of HE within 6 months and another one experienced the recurrence of HE within 1 year. Compared with the preoperative parameters, the Child-Pugh score and grade were significantly improved at 1 week and 1 month after embolization (all P<0.05), and the serum ammonia level was significantly lower at 1 month after embolization (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

SVE could be considered as a feasible treatment for patients with HE related to large SSRS, but further validation is required.

Reducing temperature sensitivity of gas measurement using chirped-modulated photoacoustic spectroscopy

Resonance frequency drift caused by a change in temperature greatly limits the application of high-Q resonators with high temperature sensitivity in photoacoustic (PA) gas detection systems. In this work, a chirp-wavelength combined modulation method was designed by incorporating a real-time frequency scanning in wavelength-modulated PA spectroscopy to reduce the influence of temperature changes on measurement. Theoretical analysis shows that the chirp rate depends on the precision requirements and the cutoff frequency of the cascaded low-pass filter. Trace acetylene measurement experiment at varying temperature verified that the proposed method can significantly reduce the temperature sensitivity within a preset temperature range. Thus, this method can effectively reduce the temperature sensitivity of a high-Q resonator for improving the measurement accuracy and detection limit in trace gas detection.

[Efficacy and safety of modified hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis 04 regimen in Beijing Children's Hospital]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Beijing Children's Hospital (BCH) modified hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) 04 regimen in the treatment of childhood HLH. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted. From January 2016 to December 2017, 110 children with HLH who were treated with the modified HLH-04 regimen (replacing dexamethasone with methylprednisolone during the induction period, reducing the dose and frequency of etoposide, and not using cyclosporine except for autoimmune-related HLH) at the Hematology Oncology Center of Beijing Children's Hospital were selected as the modified group, while 102 children treated with the standard HLH-04 regimen from January 2012 to December 2015 were selected as the control group. The early remission rate, survival rate and adverse reactions of two groups were compared. Rank sum test and chi square test were used for comparison between groups. Results: The age of onset in the modified group was 1.9 (1.1, 3.5) years, with 65 males and 45 females. The age of onset in the control group was 2.0 (1.2, 4.6) years, with 47 males and 55 females. No significant difference was found in age and gender between 2 groups (both P>0.05). Except for fibrinogen (1.3 (1.0, 1.7) vs. 1.1 (0.8, 1.4) g/L, Z=-2.67, P=0.008) and natural killer cell activity (13.9 (13.4, 16.3) % vs.14.9 (12.0, 16.1) %, Z=-2.34, P=0.028), there were no statistically significant differences in etiology, disease duration, first clinical presentation, or laboratory tests between 2 groups (all P>0.05). At 2 months and 3 years, there were no statistically significant differences in overall survival between 2 groups (84.5% (93/110) vs.76.5% (78/102), 78.2% (86/110) vs. 67.6% (69/102), χ²=2.28, 3.07, P=0.131, 0.080). The first 3 weeks were the most common time for bone marrow suppression in the modified group, with a lower incidence than in the control group (47.3% (52/110) vs. 62.7% (64/102), χ²=5.11, P=0.024). The modified group had a lower rate of fungal infections than the control group (3.6% (4/110) vs. 13.7% (14/102), χ²=6.93, P=0.008). Compared with the control group, fewer children in the modified group died as a result of side effects from chemotherapy (8.0% (2/25) vs.30.3% (10/33), χ²=4.31, P=0.038). Conclusion: The BCH modified HLH-04 regimen reduced the intensity of chemotherapy, with overall efficacy no worse than the standard HLH-04 regimen, and significantly reduced the rate of chemotherapy-related myelosuppression, fungal infection and mortality.

Efficacy and safety of endovascular brachytherapy combined with transarterial chemoembolization for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma patients with type III or IV portal vein tumor thrombosis

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of endovascular brachytherapy (EVBT) combined with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) complicated with type III OR IV portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT) and to further analyze the prognostic predictors for the patients with HCC and PVTT.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of 54 patients who were diagnosed with HCC complicated with type III or IV PVTT and received EVBT combined with modified TACE treatment from January 2017 to June 2019. Adverse events, treatment response, overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and stent patency were analysed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this treatment. The independent prognostic predictors of OS were also statistically analyzed by the cox regression model.

Results

No adverse events occurred in the enrolled patients receiving EVBT combined with TACE treatment. The objective response and disease control rates were 42.6% and 96.3% respectively within 4 weeks after the treatment. The median OS and PFS were 209 days and 138 days, respectively. Cumulative stent patency rate was 70.4% at the last follow-up. AFP ≥ 400 ng/ml, ECOG PS > 1, Child Pugh grade B, and non-hemihepatic HCC were independent risk predictors to evaluate the OS of HCC patient with type III or IV PVTT.

Conclusions

EVBT combined with TACE was a relatively effective and safe strategy to treat HCC patients with type III or IV PVTT.

[Study on the genetic characteristics of enteric viral pathogens of sporadic adult diarrhea in Chaoyang district, Beijing in 2019]

Objective: To analyze the distribution and genetic characteristics of sporadic adult diarrhea virus in Chaoyang District, Beijing. Methods: Fecal samples from 177 adult patients with sporadic diarrhea were collected from 4 enteric outpatient clinics in Chaoyang District, Beijing from May to December 2019. Nucleic acid detection of Norovirus, Sappovirus, Rotavirus, Enteric Adenovirus and Astrovirus in the samples was performed by real-time quantitative PCR. The positive samples were amplified by RT-PCR/PCR and sequenced. The phylogenetic analysis was performed by neighbor-Joining (NJ) methods of Mega 6.0 software. Results: There were 60 of 177 (33.90%) adult sporadic diarrhea samples positive for enteric viral pathogens. Among them, 47 cases were infected with single virus, including 29 cases of Norovirus, 9 cases of Sappovirus, 8 cases of Astrovirus and 1 case of Enteric Adenovirus, in addition with 13 cases of multiple infections. None of rotavirus was detected. Partial sequences were successfully obtained for analysis, including 16 cases of GI Norovirus (7 subtypes and GI.3[P13] predominant), 10 cases of GII Norovirus (5 subtypes and GII.6[P7] predominant), 12 cases of Sappovirus (4 subtypes and GI.2 predominant), and 7 cases of Astrovirus (2 subtypes and AST-1 predominant). Conclusion: Norovirus, Astrovirus and Sappovirus are main pathogens among sporadic adult diarrhea in Beijing in 2019, and and different pathogenic gene subtypes show diverse characteristics.

[Research advances on skin wounds suturing techniques and their clinical application]

Stitching skin wounds is one of the essential skills of a surgeon. Whether it is a traumatic wound or a surgical incision, choosing the most appropriate closure technique according to its characteristics is an important factor for good healing. Various skin wounds suturing techniques have been created and improved over the years, which have advantages of simple operation, precise alignment, reducing tension of the wound edges, and reducing scar formation, etc. Although these techniques provide more options for wound suture, they also put forward requirements for the judgment and operation ability of the operators. This article summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of the different skin wounds suturing techniques and their clinical application.

LncRNA FAL1 promotes the development of oral squamous cell carcinoma through regulating the microRNA-761/CRKL pathway

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to elucidate the regulatory effect of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) FAL1 on the tumorigenesis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), and to explore its underlying mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to detect the expression levels of lncRNA FAL1, microRNA-761 and CRKL in 20 pairs of OSCC tissues and adjacent normal oral tissues. Meanwhile, their expressions in OSCC cell lines were also determined by qRT-PCR. The protein expression of CRKL in OSCC tissues was detected by Western blot. The cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was performed to access the proliferation of SCC25 and HN4 cells transfected with si-FAL1. The binding conditions between lncRNA FAL1 with microRNA-761, and microRNA-761 with CRKL were tested by the Dual-Luciferase reporter gene assay. Gain-of-function experiments were conducted to determine the proliferation of OSCC cells co-transfected with si-FAL1 and microRNA-761 inhibitor. Furthermore, the proliferative potential of OSCC cells was evaluated after co-transfection of si-FAL1 and CRKL overexpression plasmid.

RESULTS

LncRNA FAL1 was highly expressed in OSCC tissues and cell lines. The proliferative capacity of OSCC cells was significantly inhibited by lncRNA FAL1 knockdown. The mRNA expression of microRNA-761 was lowly expressed in OSCC tissues and cell lines. Dual-Luciferase reporter gene assay showed that lncRNA FAL1 directly bound to microRNA-761. Meanwhile, microRNA-761 expression was negatively regulated by FAL1. CRKL was verified as the target gene of microRNA-761. Both the mRNA and protein levels of CRKL were remarkably upregulated in OSCC tissues and cell lines. CRKL expression was found to be negatively regulated by microRNA-761 in OSCC cells. Lowly expressed microRNA-761 reversed the inhibitory effect of lncRNA FAL1 knockdown on the proliferative potential of OSCC cells. In addition, the overexpression of CRKL reversed the inhibitory effect of lncRNA FAL1 down-regulation on the proliferative potential of OSCC cells as well.

CONCLUSIONS

LncRNA FAL1 is highly expressed in OSCC. Moreover, it promotes the development of OSCC by regulating CRKL expression as a sponge of microRNA-761.

Flossing Is Associated with Improved Oral Health in Older Adults

The effect of preventive oral habits is largely unexplored in older individuals. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the associations between home use of flossing and prevalence of periodontal disease and caries in older adults. Five-year incident tooth loss was also evaluated. Data on 686 individuals ≥65 y-old from the Piedmont 65+ Dental Study were examined including: 1) interproximal clinical attachment level (iCAL), 2) interproximal probing depth (iPD), 3) numbers of caries, and 4) missing teeth. Flossing behavior was evaluated according to the Periodontal Profile Class (PPC) system. Five-year follow-up data (n = 375) was evaluated for incident tooth loss. Dichotomous and categorical variables were analyzed using Pearson chi-square tests as well as covariate-adjusted Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel tests. Multiple linear regression compared clinical parameters based on flossing behavior. Elderly flossers had lower (mean, SE) %iCAL≥3 mm (38.2, 2.38 vs. 48.8, 1.56) and %iPD≥4 mm (8.70, 1.41 vs. 14.4, 0.93) compared to nonflossers (P ≤ 0.005). Flossers showed less coronal caries compared to nonflossers (P = 0.02). Baseline number of missing teeth (mean, SE) was 11.5 (0.35) in nonflossers compared to 8.6 (0.53) in flossers (P < 0.0001). Regular dental visitors had lower oral disease levels compared to episodic dental users. The majority of flossers classified into PPC-Stage I (health) whereas nonflossers classified as PPC-Stages V, VI, and VII (disease). At the 5-y follow-up visit, the average tooth loss for flossers was ~1 tooth compared to ~4 teeth lost for nonflossers (P < 0.0001). Among all teeth, molars showed the highest benefit (>40%) for flossing behavior (P = 0.0005). In conclusion, the extent of oral disease for older individuals was significantly less in flossers than in nonflossers. Flossers showed less periodontal disease, fewer dental caries, and loss of fewer teeth over a 5-y period. These findings further support flossing as an important oral hygiene behavior to prevent oral disease progression in older adults.

[Strategy of nursing care on the face skin injuries caused by wearing medical-grade protective equipment]

For effective resistance to virus attack and infection, reducing virus transmission chance, it is extremely important for the medical staff and related workers to have their own safe protection. This paper summarizes the development causes, common locations, and prevention ways about the device related pressure injuries on the face resulted from wearing medical-grade protective equipment for a long working time. The paper proposes the nursing strategy for device related pressure injuries and other nursing strategy is proposed to take care efficiently the device related pressure injuries. Meantime, a corresponding nursing strategy is also suggested to deal with the correlative skin diseases during the application of medical-grade protective equipment. These paper aims to provide reference for the prevention of device related pressure injuries and the care of skin-related diseases for clinical working staff, especially to the respectable personnel in front line of fighting against Corona virus disease 2019.

A robust model for estimating thermal conductivity of liquid alkyl halides

Thermal conductivity is an essential thermodynamic property in chemical engineering application. As a result, estimating the thermal conductivity of organic compounds is of significance in industry production. Alkyl halides are important organic intermediates and raw materials, but little investigations have been performed to estimate their thermal conductivity. In this study, the structures of compounds were optimized in Gaussian 09W and molecular descriptors were extracted by Dragon software. Finally, we developed a 6-descriptor linear quantitative structure-property relationship (QSPR) model to estimate the thermal conductivity of alkyl halides using the genetic function approximation (GFA) method. Validation proved that the developed model had goodness-of-fit, robustness and predictive ability. The r²_pred and root-mean-square error (RMSE_P) of prediction set for the model were equal to 0.9745 and 0.0035, respectively. Meanwhile, the applicability domain was visualized by means of the Williams plot. This study provides a new model for estimating the thermal conductivity of this important class of chemicals.

Effects of nucleotide supplementation to corn–soybean meal-based diet on growth performance, fecal microflora, and blood profiles of sows and performance of suckling piglets

A total of 45 sows (Landrace × Yorkshire) and their litters were used in this study to evaluate the efficacy of nucleotide supplementation on reproductive performance, growth performance, fecal microflora, and blood profiles in sows and piglets. Sows were allocated to one of three treatments (15 pigs per treatment and the average parity was 4.13). Dietary treatments consisted of (1) CON: basal diet, (2) T1: CON + 0.5% nucleotides, and (3) T2: CON + 1.0% nucleotides. In this study, the average daily feed intake during lactation and back fat at weaning day was increased linearly (P < 0.05) in sows with the increase in nucleotide supplementation levels. Sows receiving increasing levels of nucleotides had linearly increased fecal Lactobacillus counts and decreased Escherichia coli counts at weaning day (P < 0.05). Linear reduction of the epinephrine, norepinephrine, and cortisol in sows was observed at weaning day, whereas superoxide dismutase was increased linearly (P < 0.05). Body weight and average daily gain in piglets were linearly (P < 0.05) increased with the increasing levels of nucleotides. Linear increase (P < 0.05) was also observed on total piglets born, live piglets, and piglet survival. The current study demonstrated the importance of nucleotides in the diets of sows to improve sow and piglet performance.

[The evaluation of training program "resident team leader in the Department of General Internal Medicine" at Peking Union Medical College Hospital]

Objective: To evaluate senior resident training program "resident team leader in the Department of General Internal Medicine" at Peking Union Medical College Hospital. Methods: We surveyed the residents or the fellows who had been selected as resident team leaders and received the training from October 2014 to September 2018 on their comments and suggestions. Results: Twenty-two rotated senior residents who were selected as team leaders in the Department of General Internal Medicine completed the survey. Almost all (21/22, 95.5%) of the respondents reported that they learnt more in general as team leaders by Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The mean VAS scores of clinical skills were 7.23±1.27, 7.86±1.32 in teaching abilities, 8.14±0.89 in leadership evaluation. Scales as chief resident assistants were 8.44±1.26. Sixteen respondents (72.7%) considered that pre-job training by attending doctors was necessary. Another 8 (36.4%) respondents addressed their demands on training of teaching skills. Conclusions: The senior resident training program "resident team leader in the Department of General Internal Medicine" improves the competency of rotated senior residents. It is a valuable pilot study on senior resident training and worthy of further application in other departments and hospitals.

IL-37- and IL-35/IL-37-Producing Plasma Cells in Chronic Periodontitis

Periodontitis is one of the most prevalent chronic inflammatory diseases and is induced by the interaction between oral microorganisms and the host immune system. Plasma cells are of special interest in chronic periodontitis (CP), as they represent ~50% of infiltrated immune cells in periodontal lesions. Plasma cells constitute the only known cell type capable of antibody production; however, recent evidence supports an emerging role for distinct sets of plasma cells in cytokine production. However, the presence of cytokine-producing plasma cells in CP is unknown. In this study, we used immunohistochemistry to detect significantly elevated levels of IL-35 and IL-37 (2 recently identified anti-inflammatory cytokines) in CP gingival tissue as compared with healthy tissue. Remarkably, we demonstrate that CD138⁺ CD38⁺ plasma cells are the major immune cell type in CP gingival tissues and that these cells produce IL-35 and IL-37. We used immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy analysis to identify a subset of plasma cells with robust cytoplasmic expression of IL-37-we denote this subset as IL-37-producing plasma cells (CD138⁺CD38⁺P_IL-37). Another subset of plasma cells coproduces IL-35 and IL-37 and is denoted as IL-37/IL-35-coproducing plasma cells (CD138⁺CD38⁺P_IL-35/IL-37). We determined that these 2 plasma cell subsets are IgG⁺plasma cells. Moreover, we show that human recombinant IL-35 and IL-37 exhibit a dose-dependent inhibition of osteoclast formation in vitro (~78.9% and 97.7% inhibition in 300 ng/mL of IL-35 and IL-37, respectively, P < 0.05). Overall, our findings suggest that P_IL-37 and P_IL-35/IL-37 exist as subsets of plasma cells in CP lesions and that these 2 new types of plasma cells may regulate periodontitis pathogenesis by inhibiting alveolar bone loss through directly blocking osteoclast formation. Importantly, these data suggest a novel role of plasma cells and offer potential new mechanistic and regulatory targets to be investigated in the context of periodontal health and disease.

Cytotoxic effect of oxaloacetate on HepG2-human hepatic carcinoma cells via apoptosis and ROS accumulation

Oxaloacetate (OA) is one of the intermediates of the Krebs cycle. In addition to its role in energy production, OA may have other effects on the cell. We report here that OA could have a cell type dependent cytotoxic effect on the human hepatic carcinoma cell line HepG2 through induction of apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. In our study, OA decreased the viability and colony formation of HepG2 cells and induced cell death. Caspase-3 activity was increased, the pro-apoptotic protein Bax was up-regulated, and the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 was down-regulated in OA-treated HepG2 cells indicating that apoptosis through the intrinsic pathway was involved in the cell death. The ROS level in OA-treated HepG2 cells was increased. The anti-oxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and glutathione (GSH) prevented the OA-induced decrease in cell but did not alter the enhanced apoptotic Bax/Bcl-2 mRNA ratio. These results suggest that the OA-induced apoptosis of HepG2 cell is not driven by oxidative damage and at least two distinct mechanisms, one mediated by ROS and one involving apoptosis, result in the cytotoxic effects of OA on HepG2 cells. These studies expand the biological functional repertoire of OA and provide a mechanism by which hepatocellular carcinoma may be targeted by OA.

Transforming Growth Factor-β Partially Reversed the Immunosuppressive Effect of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Mice

BACKGROUND

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess powerful immunosuppression capacity. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a well-known anti-inflammatory cytokine and plays an important role in various inflammatory processes. We hypothesized that TGF-β could synergize with MSCs in suppressing immune responses, and therefore established a mouse skin graft model to evaluate the effect of MSCs and MSCs combined with TGF-β on transplantation immunity in vivo.

METHODS

Balb/c and C57BL/6 mice were used to establish the skin graft model. The recipients were divided into 3 groups and received intravenous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), BMSCs pretreated with TGF-β, and 0.9% saline solution, respectively. Skin graft survival time, pathological detection, the ratio of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+Treg cell of spleens, and the level of IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-10, and TGF-β expression were tested.

RESULTS

The survival time of skin grafts were prolonged in both BMSC (12.5 ± 1.35 days) and BMSC-TGF-β (10.6 ± 1.90 days) recipients compared to the blank control recipients (8.0 ± 1.05 days). The ratio of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+Treg cell of spleens from BMSC and BMSC-TGF-β recipients was higher than that of the blank control, and the upregulated proliferation in the BMSC group occurred earlier and was prolonged compared to the BMSC-TGF-β group. The expression of IFN-γ and IL-2 was inhibited in both the BMSC and BMSC-TGF-β groups compared to the blank, while the expression of IL-10 and TGF-β was boosted. In contrast to the BMSC group, the BMSC-TGF-β group exhibited a weaker effect on the expression of cytokines.

CONCLUSION

TGF-β partially reversed the immunosuppressive effect of MSCs in vivo. This immunoregulatory feature may have potential applications for treating transplant rejection.

[Preparation of bioactive denatured acellular dermal matrix from burn mice riched in mice bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells]

Objective: To investigate the preparation of bioactive denatured acellular dermal matrix (DADM) from burn mice riched in mice bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. Methods: Twelve BALB/c mice were collected and 20% total body surface area scalds (hereinafter referred to as burns) with deep partial thickness were inflicted on the back skin of each mouse. After removing epidermis, the burned skin were collected and divided into Triton X-100 group and elhylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) group according to the random number table, with 15 samples in each group. Samples in Triton X-100 group and EDTA group were respectively placed in mixture of 2.5 g/L Triton X-100 and 2.5 g/L trypsin solution and mixture of 0.2 g/L EDTA and 2.5 g/L trypsin solution for sustained vibration and elution for 24 hours to make mice DADM. The general appearance of DADM was observed. The structure and arrangement of collagen fibers of DADM were observed by scanning electron microscope and tissue structure of DADM were observed by fluorescence microscope. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) from mice were transplanted in mice DADM in the two groups with concentration of 2×105 cells per well to prepare bioactive mice DADM. After cultured for 3 days, tissue structure of bioactive mice DADM was observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining, distribution and number of BMSCs of bioactive mice DADM were observed by immunofluorescence staining. Proliferation of BMSCs of bioactive mice DADM after cultured for 2 h, 1 d, 3 d, and 5 d was detected by cell count kit-8. Data were processed with analysis of variance for repeated measurement and t test. Results: (1) Mice DADM in the two groups were white in appearance with certain tenacity and elasticity. Mice DADM in the two groups maintained good three-dimensional porous network structure. Collagen fibers of mice DADM in EDTA group were with good continuity, and collagen fibers of mice DADM in Triton X-100 group were fractured in varying degrees. Mice DADM in the two groups were decellularized completely, and the collagen fibers were loose and arranged disorderly. The continuity of tissue structure of mice DADM in EDTA group was better than that of mice DADM in Triton X-100 group. (2) After cultured for 3 days, the BMSCs in bioactive mice DADM in the two groups were evenly distributed. The number of bioactive BMSCs in mice DADM in EDTA group was 37±7, which was significantly more than that of mice DADM in Triton X-100 group (25±8, t=0.128, P<0.05). The proliferation of bioactive BMSCs in mice DADM in Triton X-100 group and EDTA group was similar at 2 hours and on day 1 after cultured (t=1.292, 0.656, P>0.05). On 3, 5 days after cultured, the proliferation of bioactive BMSCs in mice DADM in EDTA group was significantly higher than that of mice DADM in Triton X-100 group (t=2.309, 14.128, P<0.05 or P<0.01). Conclusions: Mice DADM prepared by decellularization of EDTA has better three-dimensional porous network structure and good continuity of collagen fiber. The BMSCs in bioactive DADM from burn mice prepared by transplanting BMSCs are evenly distributed with large quantity and strong proliferative capacity, which has the potential to be good autologous dermal substitute.

[Clinical features of adult patients with chronic active Epstein-Barr virus infection]

Objective: To investigate the clinical features of adult-onset chronic active Epstein-Barr virus infection (CAEBV). Methods: A total of 21 adult patients with CAEBV who were admitted to the department of General Internal Medicine at Peking Union Medical College Hospital from January 2006 to January 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic data, disease duration, clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, treatments and prognosis were reviewed. Results: Eighteen females and 3 males were enrolled with a mean age of 39 years. The most common clinical manifestations included fever in 20 patients, splenomegaly in 20 patients, lymphadenopathy in 18 patients, and hepatomegaly in 10 patients, followed by laryngopharyngeal disorders in 6 patients, pleural effusion and peritoneal effusion each in 5 patients, rash in 4 patients, interstitial lung disease in 3 patients, gastrointestinal hemorrhage in 2 patients, and peripheral neuropathy and pulmonary hypertension each in 1 patient. Six patients were complicated with hemophagocytic lymphohis-tioncytosis(HLH) that developed 5-17 (mean: 9) months following CAEBV onset, all of whom experienced hyperpyrexia, pancytopenia, lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, and liver dysfunction, 3 with hepatomegaly. Nineteen of the 21 patients had received steroid therapy including 10 combined with immunosuppressive agents, 11 with antiviral therapy, and 8 with intravenous immunoglobulin. Thirteen patients died, including 10 of multiple organ failure, (including 6 of HLH) 2 of severe pulmonary infection, and 1 of lymphoma. Six patients remained on follow-up, yet 2 were missing. Conclusions: CAEBV is expected with severe condition and poor prognosis, which is likely to be complicated with HLH. Clinical physicians should pay attention to adult patients with fever, hepatosplenomegaly and lymphadenopathy, which suggests possible CAEBV.

Loss-induced transparency in optomechanics

We study optomechanically induced transparency (OMIT) in a compound system consisting of coupled optical resonators and a mechanical mode, focusing on the unconventional role of loss. We find that optical transparency can emerge at the otherwise strongly absorptive regime in the OMIT spectrum, by using an external nanotip to enhance the optical loss. In particular, loss-induced revival of optical transparency and the associated slow-to-fast light switch can be identified in the vicinity of an exceptional point. These results open up a counterintuitive way to engineer micro-mechanical devices with tunable losses for e.g., coherent optical switch and communications.

[Analysis on probability of premature death and cause eliminated life expectancy of major non-communicable diseases in Chongqing Municipality, 2016]

Objective: To analyze the premature death probability and cause-eliminated life expectancy of cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory disease and diabetes in Chongqing residents in 2016 so as to provide recommendation for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) prevention and control in Chongqing. Methods: Death cases of Chongqing Municipality between January 1(st) and December 31(st), 2016 were reported through death case registry system of national center for disease prevention and control. Death cases were sorted by international classification of disease (ICD-10). Mortality rate, standardized mortality rate, constituent ratio, premature death probability, life expectancy, and cause-eliminated life expectancy of four major NCDs were analyzed. Results: A total of 218 004 death cases were reported in Chongqing, 2016, and the mortality rate was 731.73/100 000. Of them, a total of 179 637 death cases of the four major NCDs including cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory disease and diabetes were reported, accounting for 82.40% of all death cases. The mortality rate and standardized mortality rate of four major NCDs was 602.95/100 000 and 455.82/100 000, respectively. The premature death probability of four major NCDs was 15.96%, and males (25.39%) had a higher premature death probability than females (10.78%). The premature death probability of cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory disease, and diabetes were 6.01%, 8.32%, 2.05%, and 0.43%, respectively. Life expectancy would increase by 6.02, 3.19, 1.89, and 0.19 years, after eliminating cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory disease and diabetes respectively. Conclusion: The premature death probability of major NCDs was high in Chongqing, and males had a higher premature death probability than females did. Intervention and health management of the population should be conducted according to different gender-based risk factors to reduce the premature death probability.

[A case report of primary ectopic meningioma on occipital subcutaneous soft tissue]

A 65 years old male patient found one lump (A) located in left occipital subcutaneous soft tissue, which was gradually enlarging since thirty years ago. And the patient found another lump (B) located in left shoulder since five years ago. The pathological results showed typical features and immunophenotype of (A) lump resembling intracranial meningothelial meningioma, and (B) lump was a lipoma. No local recurrence or metastasis could been found for 2 months after excision.

Effects of dietary methyl sulfonyl methane (MSM) supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, meat quality, excreta microbiota, excreta gas emission, and blood profiles in broilers

A 29-d trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary methyl sulfonyl methane (MSM) supplementation on growth performance, meat quality, nutrient digestibility, excreta microbiota, excreta gas emission, and blood profiles in broilers. A total of 816 1-day-old male Ross 308 broilers (44 ± 0.44 g) were assigned to 4 dietary treatments, composed of 12 replicates with 17 birds per replicate. The 4 treatments were: 1) CON, basal diet; 2) S1, CON + 0.05% MSM; 3) S2, CON + 0.10% MSM; 4) S3, CON + 0.20% MSM. In the current study, body weight (BW) on d 14 and 29 showed significant improvement as dietary MSM increased from 0.05% to 0.20% (P < 0.05). During d 1 to 14 and overall, higher (P < 0.05) body weight gain (BWG) and lower feed conversion ratio (FCR) were observed in broilers fed MSM diets. Between d 15 and 29, higher (P < 0.05) BWG was observed in broilers fed MSM diets. Redness (a*) was increased linearly (P < 0.05) in broilers fed MSM diets. On d 3, 5, and 7, drip loss was decreased linearly (P < 0.05) in broilers fed MSM diets. Lactobacillus and E. coli were effected linearly (P < 0.05) in broilers fed MSM diets. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), white blood cells (WBC) and lymphocytes were improved linearly (P < 0.05) in broilers fed MSM diets. In conclusion, dietary supplementation MSM has positive effects on growth performance, meat quality, excreta microbiota, and blood profiles in broilers.