Ultrahigh-acetone-sensitivity sensor based on Pt-loaded TiO2porous nanoparticles synthesized via a facile hydrothermal method

A simple hydrothermal method based on an orthogonal experimental design was used to synthesis Pt-loaded TiO2mesoporous nanoparticles in one step. The successful synthesis of Pt-loaded TiO2nanoparticles was demonstrated by various characterization methods. The effects of the modification of Pt and its explanation are described in detail by means of the test results. Through systematic gas-sensing tests, we found that the Pt-loaded TiO2nanoparticles outperform pure TiO2nanoparticles, with a high response value (S= 42.5) to 200 ppm acetone at 260 °C and with a film thickness of 0.45 mm, far superior to that of pure TiO2. The response time (8 s) and recovery time (11 s) of the material are also relatively good with excellent selectivity and long-term stability (30 days). The frequent use of acetone as an organic solution in factories and laboratories, as well as the possibility of making a preliminary diagnosis of diabetes by detecting acetone levels in exhaled gas, make this work promising for environmental monitoring and medical diagnosis.

The feasibility, safety and short-term clinical efficacy of laparoscopic anterior resection of rectal cancer with left colonic artery (LCA) preservation and natural orifice specimen extraction (NOSE)

BACKGROUND

Natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) has the advantages of less postoperative pain, fast bowel function recovery, reduced hospital stay and better cosmetic effects. In our centre, anterior resection of rectal cancer with preservation of the left colonic artery (LCA) was performed using NOSES. The feasibility, safety and short-term clinical efficacy of the technique were discussed.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed on 19 patients who underwent laparoscopic anterior resection of rectal cancer with left colonic artery preservation and natural orifice specimen extraction in the Gastrointestinal Surgery Center of Sichuan Cancer Hospital from September 2018 to December 2019. General information about the patients, perioperative data and short-term postoperative results were analysed.

RESULTS

All operations were completed smoothly, with an average operation duration of 304.36 ± 45.04 min, intraoperative bleeding of 76.31 ± 61.12 ml, first time off bed of 14.42 ± 3.56 h, first time to anus exhaust of 15.26 ± 8.92 h, first time to liquid diet of 2.94 ± 1.12 days, and average postoperative stay of 10.21 ± 3.13 days. Two patients developed temporary intestinal obstruction, and one patient developed pulmonary infection. All of them recovered well after active supportive treatment and were successfully discharged.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic NOSES for rectal cancer with left colon artery preservation is safe and feasible, with satisfactory short-term results, and is worthy of further clinical investigation.

The effects of expectancies and patriotism on Chinese use intention of 5G network

China leads the world in the development and rollout of 5G network, yet less research has been done on the drivers of Chinese people’s adoption of 5G network, especially the specific role of national sentiments, such as the influence of patriotism on their attitude toward 5G network. The study obtained 804 effective online questionnaires from the respondents of various ages, genders, areas, and educational levels. The results based on the structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis showed that patriotism was an antecedent to Chinese users’ cognition of the conditions provided by the government and telecom operators and the extent that users were influenced by media and surrounding people, which in turn increased users’ expectations of the performance of 5G network and their confidence in adapting to 5G network, and resulted in an increased willingness to use 5G network. This research helps to understand the role of patriotism, which is an emotional factor, in stimulating Chinese users’ attitudes toward 5G network at the time when 5G network is putting into large-scale commercial use in China.

A comprehensive finite element model for studying Cochlear-Vestibular interaction

We present a 3-D finite element (FE) model of the chinchilla's inner ear consisting of the entire cochlea structure and the vestibular system. The reaction of the basilar membrane to the head rotation and the reaction of ampulla to the stapes movement were investigated. These results demonstrate the existence of hearing-vestibular system interaction. They provide an explanation to the clinical finding on the coexistence between hearing loss and equilibration dysfunction. It is a preliminary, yet critical step toward the development of a comprehensive FE model of an entire ear for mechano-acoustic analysis.

Theoretical and Experimental Analysis of Thin-Walled Curved Rectangular Box Beam under In-Plane Bending

Thin-walled curved box beam structures especially rectangular members are widely used in mechanical and architectural structures and other engineering fields because of their high strength-to-weight ratios. In this paper, we present experimental and theoretical analysis methods for the static analysis of thin-walled curved rectangular-box beams under in-plane bending based on 11 feature deformation modes. As to the numerical investigations, we explored the convergence and accuracy analysis by normal finite element analysis, higher-order assumed strain plane element, deep collocation method element, and inverse finite element method, respectively. The out-of-plane and in-plane characteristic deformation vector modes derived by the theoretical formula are superimposed by transforming the axial, tangential, and the normal deformation values into scalar tensile and compression amounts. A one-dimensional deformation experimental test theory is first proposed, formulating the specific contributions of various deformation modes. In this way, the magnitude and trend of the influence of each low-order deformation mode on the distortion and warping in the actual deformation are determined, and the significance of distortion and warping in the actual curved beams subjected to the in-plane loads is verified. This study strengthens the deformation theory of rectangular box-type thin-walled curved beams under in-plane bending, thus providing a reference for analyzing the mechanical properties of curved-beam structures.

Online energy-resolved MS boosts the potential of LC-MS towards metabolite characterization of salidroside and tyrosol

Although currently serving as the workhorse for metabolite characterization, one of the most challenging tasks for LC-MS is isomeric differentiation because isomers frequently yield identical quasi-molecular ions and fragmented ion species. Our previous studies have demonstrated that online energy-resolved MS (ER-MS) is an orthogonal technique for MS/MS experiments to facilitate isomeric identification. Herein, attempts were made for the in-depth characterization of the metabolic profiles of an effective natural product named salidroside (SA) in rats using LC coupled with three-dimensional mass spectrometry (LC-3D MS) that was configured by MS¹, MS² and online ER-MS as 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd dimensions, respectively. Moreover, the metabolism characterization of its aglycone, namely, tyrosol (Try) was conducted in parallel to aid in proposing metabolic pathways. High-resolution MS¹ and MS² spectra were acquired by IT-TOF-MS, and subsequent data processing provided theoretical formula and sub-structures for each metabolite. Subsequently, online ER-MS was conducted for precursor > product ion transitions-of-interest to offer linkage information among the sub-structures via building breakdown graphs. As a result, ten (M1-10) and nine (M1, M2, and M5-11) metabolites were detected in SA- and Tyr-administrated biological samples, respectively, and their structures were qualitatively identified. Crucial metabolism occurred for either component. SA initially underwent hydrolysis to produce Tyr, and subsequently hydroxylation, oxidation, glucuronidation, and sulfation were observed as the primary metabolic pathways. To summarize, the metabolic fate of SA was understood in depth, and Tyr, as the hydrolytic product, was responsible for the occurrences of most metabolites (M1, M2, and M5-10). More importantly, identification confidences of the metabolites were significantly advanced by LC-3D MS, suggesting that it is eligible to serve as an integral part of the analyst's toolbox.

[Chemical profiling of Artemisia rupestris using HPLC-IT-TOF-MS]

Artemisia rupestris is widely used as a folk medicine of Uygur and Kazak with blood and detoxification, deaccumulation stagnation, clearing heat digestion and other effects. Currently, the chemical profile of A. rupestris has not been disclosed, resulting in a great obstacle for the systematic clarification of the efficacy materials and the quality evaluations. In this paper, HPLC-IT-TOF-MS was deployed to characterize the chemical constituents in A. rupestris. As a result, a total of 124 compounds were detected in 75% ethanol extract of A. rupestris. By comparing with the reference compounds, seven chlorogenic acids, and four flavonoids as well as one sesquiterpenoid were definitely identified. Moreover, twenty sesquiterpenes, sixty-five flavonoids and twenty-three chlorogenic acids were preliminarily identified by matching MS/MS spectral information with literature data and applying those empirical mass spectrometric cracking rules. In current study, the chemical composition of A. rupestris was profiled in depth, and the findings are envisioned to provide a theoretical basis for the further studies of this well-known herbal medicine, such as efficacy material characterization and quality assessment.

Minimally invasive versus conventional fixation of tracer in robot-assisted pedicle screw insertion surgery: a randomized control trial

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated the minimal invasiveness, safety, and accuracy of robot-assisted pedicle screw placement procedure using a modified tracer fixation device.

METHODS

Patients were randomly assigned to conventional fixation group (25 patients) and modified fixation group (27 patients).

RESULTS

No baseline statistical difference was observed between the groups (P > 0.05). The length of unnecessary incision, amount of bleeding, and fixation duration for tracer fixation respectively were 6.08 ± 1.02 mm, 1.46 ± 0.84 ml, and 1.56 ± 0.32 min in the modified fixation group and 40.28 ± 8.52 mm, 12.02 ± 2.24 ml, and 5.08 ± 1.06 min in the conventional group. The difference between both groups was significant (P < 0.05). However, no significant difference between the two groups was observed in terms of the accuracy of pedicle screw placement (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The modified minimally invasive procedure for tracer fixation results in minimal trauma and is simple, reliable, and highly safe. Additionally, the procedure does not compromise the accuracy of pedicle screw placement. Thus, it has great clinical applicable value.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: Registration number, ChiCTR1800016680; Registration Date, 15/06/2018.

[Detection effect of an automatic identification system of Schistosoma japonicum miracidia]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of an automatic identification system of Schistosoma japonicum miracidia, and compare it with the traditional eye detection method in the simulation field.

METHODS

A total of 260 fecal samples were collected from schistosomiasis non-endemic areas, and the test sample bottles containing schistosome miracidia were prepared according to different experimental needs. Thirty fecal samples for the sensitivity test were separately added with five fresh miracidia per sample, and then the mixed samples were detected by two experienced technicians (with more than 15 years' traditional test experience) or the automatic system. The positive detection rates were compared between the two methods. Thirty fecal samples for repetition test were separately added with ten fresh miracidia per sample, and then the mixed samples were detected separately with the automatic identification system by two experienced technicians. The results were compared between two persons. The two methods including the automatic identification system and the traditional eye detection method were carried out blindly with totally 200 samples in the simulation field. There were three groups (each with 30 samples) : Group 1 with more than 21 fresh miracidia, Group 2 with 6 to 20 fresh miracidia, and Group 3 with 1 to 5 fresh miracidia. The other 110 samples were as a negative group. The detection time, accuracy, missed detection rate, and false detection rate of the two methods were statistically compared.

RESULTS

The positive detection rates of the 30 positive samples were 43.33% and 33.33% by the two technicians with the traditional eye detection method, respectively, while the detection rate was 80.00% by the automatic identification system, and the difference was statistically significant (χ² = 7.05, χ² = 12.97, both P < 0.01). Thirty positive samples were detected by the two technicians using the same automatic identification system, and the positive detection rates of the two were 96.67% and 86.67%, respectively, with no significant difference (χ² = 0.27, P > 0.05). The experiments showed that the correct detection rate of the positive samples was 98.00% by the automatic identification system, which was higher than 79.75% by the traditional eye detection method. The detection time of the automatic identification system was shortened by half compared with that of the traditional eye detection method. The missed detection rate, and false detection rate of the automatic identification system were 2.22% and 1.82%, respectively, which were much lower than 35.56% and 7.73% of the traditional eye detection method.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with the traditional eye detection method, the automatic identification system of S. japonicum miracidia has the advantages of high sensitivity, good repeatability, short detection time, high accuracy, low missed detection rate, and low false detection rate. It can be used in the field and clinical detection in replacement of the traditional eye detection method.

A11-positive β-amyloid Oligomer Preparation and Assessment Using Dot Blotting Analysis

β-amyloid (Aβ) is a hydrophobic peptide with an intrinsic tendency to self-assemble into aggregates. Among various aggregates, Aβ oligomer is widely accepted as the leading neurotoxin in the progress of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and is considered to be the crucial event in the pathogenesis of AD. Therefore, Aβ oligomer inhibitors might prevent neurodegeneration and have the potential to be developed as disease-modifying treatments of AD. However, different formation protocols of Aβ oligomer might lead to oligomers with different characteristics. Moreover, there are not many methods to effectively screen Aβ1-42 oligomer inhibitors. An A11 antibody can react with a subset of toxic Aβ1-42 oligomer with anti-parallel β-sheet structures. In this protocol, we describe how to prepare an A11-positive Aβ1-42 oligomer-rich sample from a synthetic Aβ1-42 peptide in vitro and to evaluate relative amounts of A11-positive Aβ1-42 oligomer in samples by a dot blotting analysis using A11 and Aβ1-42-specific 6E10 antibodies. Using this protocol, inhibitors of A11-positive Aβ1-42 oligomer can also be screened from semi-quantitative experimental results.

[Cryptosporidium infection in Nanjing City from 2015 to 2016]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the status of Cryptosporidium infection in the population in Nanjing City so as to provide the evidence for the prevention and control of cryptosporidiosis.

METHODS

A total of 100 fecal samples were collected from each of three districts (Liuhe, Qixia and Gaochun) and one hospital (Nanjing Zhongda Hospital) in 2015 and 2016 respectively. The fecal samples were detected for Cryptosporidium with microscopy (by using the gold amine phenol-modified acid-fast staining) and the positive samples were detected again for the molecular biology confirming by using the fluorescence quantitative PCR.

RESULTS

During the two years, 581 cases of normal population who lived in the city were surveyed and no Cryptosporidium infection was found. Among 202 cases of outpatients with chronic diarrhea, there were 9 Cryptosporidium positive cases with the microscope scanning method (4.46%), and among the 9 cases, 7 cases showed obvious logarithmic amplification curves showing positive Cryptosporidium nucleic acid, but 2 cases without the obvious logarithmic amplification curves, and the Cryptosporidium nucleic acid positive rate was 3.47%.

CONCLUSIONS

Cryptosporidium infection is not found in the normal population of Nanjing City, but the Cryptosporidium infection is found in the chronic diarrhea patients. The results imply that we should strengthen the detection of Cryptosporidium in the chronic diarrhea patients, so as to provide the evidence for improving the diagnosis and treatment of cryptosporidiosis.

The power peripherally inserted central catheter is superior to a central venous catheter in management of patients with esophageal variceal bleeding undergoing devascularization

Peripherally-inserted central catheters (PICC) have a greater retention time and less complications compared to central venous catheters (CVC). The study was conducted from From January of 2014 to December 2015 at Beijing DiTan Hospital, Beijing, China, and comprised 70 patients undergoing devascularisation. Of the total, 36(51.4%) patients underwent placement of PICC (Group A), while 34(48.6%) underwent had CVC (Group B). Venous catheterisation was successful in all patients. The median duration of venous catheterization in Group A was greater than that in Group B (p=0.002). Catheter-associated complications did not differ between the groups (p=0.46). The level of blood platelet (PLT) count, Prothrombin activity (PTA) and white blood cell (WBC) count before venous catheterisation were independent risk factors for bleeding at the puncture site and catheter-related infections. A Power PICC may be a better choice than a CVC in patients undergoing devascularisation requiring catheterisation. For patients with a lower PLT count, a decreased PTA, or a decreased WBC, venous catheterisation should be performed with caution.

Prediction of asialoglycoprotein receptors by correlated liver function parameters before hepatectomy

Flow cytometric analysis of asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR) levels on the surface of hepatocytes, which were obtained from the liver specimens of patients that received hepatectomy, were used as predictors of liver dysfunction after major hepatectomy for primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Chinese patients, based on our previous study which confirmed the value of ASGPR levels on the surface of hepatocytes in evaluating the liver reserve function. The current study was planned to establish a conversion formula for the value of ASGPR with correlated liver function parameters. It was conducted from January 1, 2014, to June 30, 2015, at Beijing DiTan Hospital, Beijing, China, and comprised 55 patients having undergone major hepatectomy. The outcomes of hepatectomy were compared with ASGPR levels and preoperative liver function parameters. A multiple linear regression model was used to identify the converted ASGPR value. The calculated ASGPR level was derived as: 80.695 + 0.002 × cholinesterases (CHE) (IU/L) - 0.620 × indocyanine green retention rate at 15 min (ICGR15)(%) - 0.655 × total bilirubin (TB) (umol/L). Receiver-operator characteristic curve analysis showed that the sensitivity and specificity of the ASGPR value <68.18% were 100% and 77.3% respectively for predicting liver dysfunction after hepatectomy. The converted ASGPR value may be reliable index for hepatic functional reserve in patients undergoing hepatectomy.

Bladder Acellular Matrix Grafts Seeded with Adipose-Derived Stem Cells and Incubated Intraperitoneally Promote the Regeneration of Bladder Smooth Muscle and Nerve in a Rat Model of Bladder Augmentation

The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of bladder acellular matrix grafts (BAMGs) seeded with adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) followed by intraperitoneal incubation for bladder reconstruction in a rat model of bladder augmentation, and to explore the underlying mechanism. Autologous CM-DiI-labeled ASC-seeded (experimental group) and unseeded (control group) BAMGs were incubated in the peritoneum of male rats for 2 weeks and then harvested for bladder augmentation. Histological analysis of the incubated BAMGs revealed numerous cells growing in homogeneous collagen bundles in both groups. In the control BAMGs, these cells were mesenchyme derived, while in the ASC-seeded BAMGs, myofibroblasts and mesothelial cells were found inside and on the surface of the scaffold, respectively. Immunofluorescence analysis demonstrated that some of the myofibroblasts were transdifferentiated from the ASCs after 2 weeks of intraperitoneal incubation. The greater bladder capacity was found in the experimental group than the control group both 4 and 14 weeks postoperatively. Histological analysis revealed that the entire urothelium regenerated well both in the experimental group and the control group without significant difference 4 weeks and 14 weeks postoperatively. From the quantitative data of immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining, the smooth muscle cells (SMCs) regenerated significantly better in the experimental group than the control group both 4 weeks and 14 weeks postoperatively. Also significantly more nerve cells were found in the experimental group 14 weeks postoperatively. At 4 weeks postoperatively, the immunofluorescence double staining revealed that some SMCs in the BAMG were transdifferentiated from the implanted ASCs, but no CM-DiI labeling of ASCs was detected 14 weeks postoperatively. Taken together, our results demonstrate that ASC-seeded and peritoneally incubated BAMGs promote not only the morphological regeneration of the bladder smooth muscle and nerve, but also the bladder capacity, which indicates their potential for bladder regeneration.

Sonic hedgehog-Gli1 signals promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition in ovarian cancer by mediating PI3K/AKT pathway

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been reported to play an important role in distant metastasis in cancer-related disease. A large number of studies have shown that sonic hedgehog-glioma-associated oncogene 1 (Shh-Gli1) signals participate in the process of EMT; however, the role and mechanism of Shh-Gli1 signals in the progression of EMT in ovarian cancer remain largely unknown. First, we investigated the occurrence of EMT and invasion and migration ability in ovarian cancer cells stimulated by different concentration of Shh-Gli1 signals agonist purmorphamine in vitro. Then, Akt siRNA was transfected into ovarian cancer cells which already stimulated by purmorphamine to elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of EMT in ovarian cancer. Gli1 expression was significantly enhanced in ovarian cancer cells after stimulated by purmorphamine. In addition, Gli1 up-regulation promoted EMT, invasion and migration ability of ovarian cancer cells. Furthermore, we validated a cross talk between Shh-Gli1 signals and PI3K-Akt pathway in the occurrence of EMT in ovarian cancer cells. These findings revealed a novel role for Shh-Gli1 signals in EMT in ovarian cancer and provided for us a potential therapeutic target for the suppression of EMT, invasion and metastasis in ovarian cancer.

Flow cytometric analysis of asialoglycoprotein receptor expression predicts hepatic functional reserve after hepatectomy

OBJECTIVE

To validate a cheaper and more accessible flow cytometry-based method of assessing Asialoglycoprotein Receptor (ASGPR) expression for hepatic functional reserve.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective analysis.

PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY

Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, from January 2011 to October 2013.

METHODOLOGY

Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) undergoing major hepatectomy at Beijing Ditan Hospital, during the study period were retrospectively studied. The fraction of hepatocytes expressing ASGPR in liver tissues was assessed by flow cytometry. Patients were grouped according to the presence or absence of postoperative hepatic dysfunction. The correlation between ASGPR expression and pre-operative liver function parameters with the outcomes of hepatectomy were analyzed.

RESULTS

Fewer hepatocytes from patients with postoperative hepatic dysfunction expressed ASGPR [63.3 (57.3 - 68.2)] than from patients without postoperative hepatic dysfunction [72.4 (70.6 - 76.3), p < 0.001]. Multiple logistic regression demonstrated ASGPR levels to be independently correlated with postoperative hepatic dysfunction (Odds ratio 3.34, 95% CI: 2.61-6.02, p < 0.001), and the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve for prediction of postoperative liver dysfunction at ≤ 68.95% ASGPR+ hepatocytes achieved a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 90.6%. The ROC curve for prediction of postoperative liver failure related death at ≤ 58.53% ASGPR+ hepatocytes achieved a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 99%.

CONCLUSION

Flow cytometric assessment of ASGPR expression may be a useful predictor of liver dysfunction following major hepatectomy for HCC in Chinese patients.

Clinical study of cisplatin hyperthermic intraperitoneal perfusion chemotherapy in combination with docetaxel, 5-flourouracil and leucovorin intravenous chemotherapy for the treatment of advanced-stage gastric carcinoma

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The purpose of this study is to observe and compare the preliminary efficacy and side effects of docetaxel, 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin intravenous chemotherapy in combination with cisplatin hyperthermic intraperitoneal perfusion chemotherapy for the treatment of advanced gastric cancer.

METHODOLOGY

Retrospectively analyzed 101 patients with advanced gastric cancer receiving docetaxel, 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin and cisplatin intravenous chemotherapy or intravenous administration of docetaxel, 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin combined with cisplatin hyperthermic intraperitoneal perfusion chemotherapy, 49 patients in intravenous chemotherapy (VC) group, 52 patients in hyperthermic intraperitoneal perfusion chemotherapy (HIPEC) group.

RESULTS

The response rate was 44.9% (22/49) in VC group and 65.4% (34/52) in HIPEC group, among which there was 1 case of CR, and the difference was statistically significant (p= 0.038). For CBR evaluation, the effective rate was 65.3% (32/49) in VC group and 82.7% (43/52) in HIPEC group, and the difference was statistically significant (p= 0.0458). The median progress free survival time (PFS) was 3.4 months in VC group and 4.6 months in HIPEC group, the difference was statistically significant (p= 0.045). The median overall survival time (OS) was 6.7 months in VC group and 7.5 months in HIPEC group, the difference was not statistically significant (p= 0.201). The main side effects in two groups were well tolerated, and there was no statistically significant difference.

CONCLUSIONS

The short-term efficacy and PFS of HIPEC plus intravenous chemotherapy were better than single intravenous chemotherapy, and there was no significant improvement in OS, the side effects were similar in two groups with good tolerability.

Molecular modelling on small molecular CDK2 inhibitors: an integrated approach using a combination of molecular docking, 3D-QSAR and pharmacophore modelling

Cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) has been identified as an important target for developing novel anticancer agents. Molecular docking, three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (3D-QSAR) and pharmacophore modelling were combined with the ultimate goal of studying the structure-activity relationship of CDK2 inhibitors. The comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA) model constructed based on a set of 3-aminopyrazole derivatives as CDK2 inhibitors gave statistically significant results (q (2) = 0.700; r (2) = 0.982). A HypoGen pharmacophore model, constructed using diverse CDK2 inhibitors, also showed significant statistics ([Formula: see text]Cost = 61.483; RMSD = 0.53; Correlation coefficient = 0.98). The small residues and error values between the estimated and experimental activities of the training and test set compounds proved their strong capability of activity prediction. The structural insights obtained from these two models were consistent with each other. The pharmacophore model summarized the important pharmacophoric features required for protein-ligand binding. The 3D contour maps in combination with the comprehensive pharmacophoric features helped to better interpret the structure-activity relationship. The results will be beneficial for the discovery and design of novel CDK2 inhibitors. The simplicity of this approach provides expansion to its applicability in optimizing other classes of small molecular CDK2 inhibitors.

Scaphoid nonunion reconstructed with vascularized bone-grafting pedicled on 1,2 intercompartmental supraretinacular artery and external fixation

BACKGROUND

Vascularized bone-grafting pedicled on 1,2 intercompartmental supraretinacular artery (1,2 ICSRA) has been recommended as a treatment alternative for established scaphoid nonunion complicated with proximal pole avascular necrosis (AVN). Previous reports focused the studies on the union rate and the revascularization of the transferred graft. However, the postoperative wrist stiffness still a challenging problem and remaining to be solved. The purpose of our study was to determine whether the combination of vascularized bone-grafting pedicled on 1,2 ICSRA and wrist external fixator immobilization provides a more effective strategy for treating established scaphoid nonunion complicated with AVN and improving postoperative range of motion (ROM) of the injured wrist.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed a consecutive series of 11 patients who had cases of established scaphoid nonunion involving AVN of the proximal pole were treated with vascularized bone-grafting pedicled on 1,2 1,2 ICSRA, internal fixation, and wrist external fixator immobilization. Procedure of wrist arthrolysis was performed before vascularized bone graft transferring. Preoperative and postoperative evaluation included measurement of clinical (wrist ROM and grip strength), radiographic (intrascaphoid angle, scapholunate angle) and functional (Mayo wrist score) parameters.

RESULTS

Osseous union was achieved in all of the 11 cases within an average period of 11.4 weeks. On an average 6.1 years follow-up, there were three excellent, six good and two fair results. Significant improvements were found for Mayo wrist score, wrist ROM, and grip strength (p < 0.01). Intrascaphoid angle and scapholunate angle were significantly improved postoperatively, and there was no significant difference between the postoperative values and the values at the last follow-up. Early functional rehabilitation of the injured wrist under the protection of the fixator did not result in displacement of the transferred graft.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the present investigation support the use of the vascularized bone graft pedicled on 1,2 ICSRA in the treatment of scaphoid nonunion complicated with proximal pole AVN. Procedures of wrist arthrolysis and early institution of wrist functional rehabilitation under the protection of the external fixator play important role in the restoration of range of motion of the injured wrist.  

The management of retroperitoneal giant schwannomas in AIDS patients: A case report

Retroperitoneal schwannomas are a rare disease. During the potent antiretroviral therapy era, the incidence of AIDS-defining cancers has decreased, while the incidence of non-AIDS defining cancers has increased; however, the existence of a relationship between benign or malignant schwannomas and AIDS remains unclear. Although a case of ethmoid malignant schwannoma in an AIDS patient was first reported in 1993, no additional reports of schwannomas associated with AIDS have been published since. In the current study, the case of a 30-year-old male AIDS patient with a large benign retroperitoneal schwannoma is presented. The ideal treatment of retroperitoneal schwannomas is complete excision. However, controversy exists over the necessity of negative soft tissue margins, particularly when adjacent tissue or viscera must also be removed. In the current case study, due to the immune dysfunction in AIDS patients, the incidence of malignancy could not be completely excluded prior to surgery and a significant risk of short-term relapse or malignancy following partial tumor resection was present. The patient underwent complete resection with partial superior mesenteric artery excision in order to attain negative margins, and recovered well. A follow-up was performed 1 year after the procedure and the patient was well and a CT scan demonstrated no evidence of recurrence. However, the long term efficacy of this procedure requires continued observation in this patient.

Effects of NaF on the expression of intracellular Ca2+ fluxes and apoptosis and the antagonism of taurine in murine neuron

Sodium fluoride (NaF) has been shown to be cytotoxic and produces inflammatory responses in humans. However, the cellular mechanisms underlying the neurotoxicity of fluoride are unclear. The present study aims to define a possible mechanism of NaF-induced neurotoxicity with respect to apoptosis and intracellular Ca(2+) fluxes. Meanwhile, the cytoprotective role of taurine in intervention, the toxic effects of NaF on neurons, is also investigated. The primary mouse hippocampal neurons were incubated with 5.0, 10.0, 15.0, 20.0, and 40.0 mg NaF/L in vitro and Kunming mice were exposed to 0.7, 2.8, and 11.2 mg NaF/kg and 7.5 and 15.0 mg taurine/kg in vivo. Intracellular Ca(2+) fluxes and apoptosis were assayed. Compared with the control, the significant differences of intracellular Ca(2+) concentration and apoptotic peaks were found in 5.0-40.0 mg NaF/L groups in vitro (p < 0.01) and in the groups of 0.7-11.2 mg NaF/kg in vivo (p < 0.01). Instantaneously, taurine can minimize F-induced neurotoxicity significantly at doses of 7.5 and 15.0 mg/kg (p < 0.01). The present study herein suggested that NaF could increase intercellular Ca(2+) concentration leading to apoptosis. Meanwhile, taurine could minimize neurotoxicity caused by fluoride through decreasing intercellular Ca(2+) concentration and cell apoptosis.

Overexpression of AEG-1 in renal cell carcinoma and its correlation with tumor nuclear grade and progression

The study was aimed at detecting the expression of a newly found oncogene, astrocyte elevated gene-1 (AEG-1), in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and its correlation with histopathologic features and the survival of patients. Real-time reverse transcription-PCR and Western blot showed markedly higher expression of AEG-1 in 8 cases of RCC tissue compared with the paired normal tissue from the same patient. The expression level of AEG-1 was also increased in four RCC cell lines in contrast with normal tubular epithelial human kidney cells 2 (HK-2) at both mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry analysis showed highly expressed AEG-1 in 96 of 102 (94.1%) cases of paraffin-embedded archival RCC tissue. Statistical analysis showed a significant correlation of AEG-1 expression with tumor grade (P <0.001), clinical staging (P = 0.003), T classification (P = 0.003) as well as metastasis classification (P=0.032). The means for survival time of low AEG-1 expression group was 76.98m<br />while high AEG-1expression group was 60.94m. Our results suggest that AEG-1 protein is overexpressed in RCC and plays an important role in tumor differentiation and progression. <br />High AEG-1 expression is closely associated with poor prognosis.

KEYWORDS

Astrocyte elevated gene-1, AEG-1, renal cell carcinoma, prognosis.

Catalpol attenuates MPTP induced neuronal degeneration of nigral-striatal dopaminergic pathway in mice through elevating glial cell derived neurotrophic factor in striatum

The protective effect of an iridoid catalpol extracted and purified from the traditional Chinese medicinal herb Rehmannia glutinosa on the neuronal degeneration of nigral-striatal dopaminergic pathway was studied in a chronic 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)/probenecid C57BL/6 mouse model and in 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridimium (MPP(+)) intoxicated cultured mesencephalic neurons. Rotarod performance revealed that the locomotor ability of mice was significantly impaired after completion of model production and maintained thereafter for at least 4 weeks. Catalpol orally administered for 8 weeks (starting from the second week of model production) dose dependently improved the locomotor ability. HPLC revealed that catalpol significantly elevated striatal dopamine levels without changing the metabolite/dopamine ratios. Nor did it bind to dopamine receptors. Therefore it is unlikely that catalpol resembles any of the known compounds for treating Parkinsonism. Instead, catalpol dose dependently raised the tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) neuron number in substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc), the striatal dopamine transporter (DAT) density and the striatal glial cell derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) protein level. Linear regression revealed that both the TH neuron number and DAT density were positively correlated to the GDNF level. In the cultured mesencephalic neurons, MPP(+) decreased the dopaminergic neuron number and shortened the neurite length, whereas catalpol showed protective effect dose dependently. Furthermore, the expression of GDNF mRNA was up-regulated by catalpol to a peak nearly double of normal control in neurons intoxicated with MPP(+) for 24 h but not in normal neurons. The GDNF receptor tyrosine kinase RET inhibitor 4-amino-5-(4-methyphenyl)-7-(t-butyl)-pyrazolo-[3,4-d]pyrimidine (PP1) abolished the protective effect of catalpol either partially (TH positive neuron number) or completely (neurite length). Taken together, catalpol improves locomotor ability by attenuating the neuronal degeneration of nigral-striatal dopaminergic pathway, and this attenuation is at least partially through elevating the striatal GDNF expression.

Expression of DPC4/Smad4 in non-small-cell lung carcinoma and its relationship with angiogenesis

The DPC4 influences tumourigenesis and tumor progression by various mechanisms, including angiogenesis. The aim of this study was to determine whether the expression of DPC4 is related to the angiogenesis in lung cancer and whether it could be involved in its clinical behaviour. Immunohistochemistry revealed that DPC4 was expressed at high level in normal broncho-tracheal epithelium, but at low level in tumor tissues, and closely correlated with tumor lymph node metastasis. This result was further confirmed by Western blot analysis. Furthermore, carcinomas with high DPC4 expression demonstrated low VEGF expression and low MVD (microvessel density) labelled with CD34. In addition, DPC4 siRNA in A549 cells also showed that DPC4 could decrease VEGF protein and mRNA expression, and increase TSP1 protein and mRNA expression. Our findings indicated that DPC4 might be an important biomarker for malignant transformation and be involved in preventing the tumor metastasis by inhibiting tumor angiogenesis.

Study the effect of Vitamin K on intracellular NAD level in yeast by fluorescence spectrum

The intracellular NAD level plays a pivotal role in numerous biological processes such as rhythm, senescence, cancer and death. The study of the intracellular NAD level has been one of the "hotspots" in biomedical research. We investigated the effect of Vitamin K on intracellular NAD level in yeast by fluorescence spectrum in this paper. Plasma membrane redox system of yeast was found to be greatly promoted by the addition of Vitamin K(3) or Vitamin K(1). Ferricyanide reduction catalyzed by Vitamin K was accompanied by the decrease in intracellular NADH concentration and the increase in intracellular NAD level of yeast cells.

Measurement of dijet azimuthal decorrelations at central rapidities in pp collisions at sqrt s =1.96 TeV

Correlations in the azimuthal angle between the two largest transverse momentum jets have been measured using the D0 detector in p (-)p collisions at a center-of-mass energy sqrt[s]=1.96 TeV. The analysis is based on an inclusive dijet event sample in the central rapidity region corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 150 pb(-1). Azimuthal correlations are stronger at larger transverse momenta. These are well described in perturbative QCD at next-to-leading order in the strong coupling constant, except at large azimuthal differences where contributions with low transverse momentum are significant.

Search for supersymmetry with gauge-mediated breaking in diphoton events at D0

We report the results of a search for supersymmetry (SUSY) with gauge-mediated breaking in the missing transverse energy distribution of inclusive diphoton events using 263 pb(-1) of data collected by the D0 experiment at the Fermilab Tevatron Collider in 2002-2004. No excess is observed above the background expected from standard model processes, and lower limits on the masses of the lightest neutralino and chargino of about 108 and 195 GeV, respectively, are set at the 95% confidence level. These are the most stringent limits to date for models with gauge-mediated SUSY breaking with a short-lived neutralino as the next-to-lightest SUSY particle.

Measurement of the B0s lifetime in the exclusive decay channel B0s-->J/psiphi

Using the exclusive decay B0s-->J/psi(mu+mu-)phi(K+K-), we report the most precise single measurement of the B0s lifetime. The data sample corresponds to an integrated luminosity of approximately 220 pb(-1) collected with the D0 detector at the Fermilab Tevatron Collider in 2002-2004. We reconstruct 337 signal candidates, from which we extract the B0s lifetime, tau(B0s)=1.444(+0.098)(-0.090)(stat)+/-0.020(sys) ps. We also report a measurement for the lifetime of the B0 meson using the exclusive decay B0-->J/psi(mu+mu-)K*0(892)(K+pi-). We reconstruct 1370 signal candidates, obtaining tau(B0)=1.473(+0.052)(-0.050)(stat)+/-0.023(sys) ps, and the ratio of lifetimes, tau(B0s)/tau(B0)=0.980(+0.076)(-0.071)(stat)+/-0.003(sys).

Observation and properties of the X(3872) decaying to J/psipi(+)pi(-) in pp collisions at sqrt[s]=1.96 TeV

We report the observation of the X(3872) in the J/psipi(+)pi(-) channel, with J/psi decaying to mu(+)mu(-), in pp collisions at sqrt[s]=1.96 TeV. Using approximately 230 pb(-1) of data collected with the Run II D0 detector, we observe 522+/-100 X(3872) candidates. The mass difference between the X(3872) state and the J/psi is measured to be 774.9+/-3.1(stat)+/-3.0(syst) MeV/c(2). We have investigated the production and decay characteristics of the X(3872) and find them to be similar to those of the psi(2S) state.

Search for doubly charged higgs boson pair production in the decay to mu(+)mu(+)mu(-)mu(-) in pp collisions at sqrt[s]=1.96 TeV

A search for pair production of doubly charged Higgs bosons in the process pp -->H(++)H(--) -->mu(+)mu(+)mu(-)mu(-) is performed with the D0 run II detector at the Fermilab Tevatron. The analysis is based on a sample of inclusive dimuon data collected at an energy of sqrt[s]=1.96 TeV, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 113 pb(-1). In the absence of a signal, 95% confidence level mass limits of M(H(+/-+/-)(L))>118.4 GeV/c(2) and M(H(+/-+/-)(R))>98.2 GeV/c(2) are set for left-handed and right-handed doubly charged Higgs bosons, respectively, assuming 100% branching into muon pairs.

Effects of integrative Chinese and Western medicine on arterial oxygen saturation in patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome

Objective: To evaluate the effects of treatment of integrative Chinese and Western medicine (ICWM) on arterial oxygen saturation (SaO₂) in patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).Methods:The non-randomized, controlled trial was conducted on 447 SARS patients treated synchronously with western conventional treatment (WM group,n = 171) alone and ICWM (ICWM group,n = 276). The changes of the cases with normal level (≥95%) or abnormal level (<95%) SaO₂ were observed dynamically.Results: In the 3rd-14th day of the therapeutic course, the percentage of patients with normal SaO₂ in the ICWM group was higher than that in the WM group (OR = 0. 5178,P = 0.0038), and this tendency was more evident in patients of the severe type (OR = 0.18,P = 0.0001). However, the statistical significance of difference was only shown in patients for whom the ICWM treatment started in the early period after the onset (<-7 days after it, OR = 0.3803,P = 0.006), but not shown in those who received ICWM treatment later in the mid-late period of SARS (P>0.05).Conclusion: ICWM treatment, particularly when it is used for intervention in the early stage, is beneficial for maintaining normal SaO₂ in SARS patients.

Increase in prevalence of Pneumocystis carinii mutations in patients with AIDS and P. carinii pneumonia, in the United States and China

This study of Pneumocystis carinii dihydropteroate synthase (DHPS) mutations in patients with AIDS who have P. carinii pneumonia compares the change in the prevalence of such mutations in the United States, where sulfa-drug prophylaxis is widespread, to that in China, where it is infrequent. The DHPS gene from 145 US patients presenting during 1983-2001 and from 15 Chinese patients presenting during 1998-2001 was amplified by polymerase chain reaction and was sequenced. In the United States, 40% of patients had DHPS mutations; 38% received sulfa-drug prophylaxis. Mutation prevalence increased to 70% during 2000-2001, from 25% during 1994-1995 (P<.01). In China, 7% of patients had DHPS mutations; none received sulfa-drug prophylaxis. The prevalence of P. carinii DHPS mutations has markedly increased in the United States but remains low in China.

Water for preventing urinary calculi

BACKGROUND

Urinary calculi is a common condition characterized of high incidence and high recurrence rate. For a long time, increased water intake has been the main preventive measure for the disease and its recurrence.

OBJECTIVES

To access the effectiveness of increased water intake for the primary and secondary prevention of urinary calculi.

SEARCH STRATEGY

Relevant RCTs were identified by electronic and documental searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Chinese Biomedical Disk and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. No language restriction was applied. Date of last search: May 2004.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs of increased water intake for the prevention of urinary calculi and its recurrence.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two reviewers independently assessed trial quality and extracted data. Statistical analyses were performed using the random effects model and the results expressed as relative risk (RR) for dichotomous outcomes or weight mean difference (WMD) for continuous data with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

MAIN RESULTS

No trials of increased water intake for the primary prevention of urinary calculi met the inclusion criteria. One trial with 199 patients provided results of increased water intake for the recurrence of urinary calculi. The recurrence rate was lower in the increased water intake group than that of the no intervention group (12% versus 27%, P = 0.008, RR = 0.45, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.84). The average interval for recurrences was 3.23 +/-1.1 years in increased water intake group and 2.09 +/- 1.37 years in the no intervention group (P = 0.016, WMD = 1.14, 95% CI 0.33 to 1.95).

REVIEWERS' CONCLUSIONS

The evidence from only one trial indicates that increased water intake reduces the risk of recurrence of urinary calculi and prolongs the average interval for recurrences. However further research is required. Due to the lack of appropriate RCTs, no conclusions can be drawn on increased water intake for the primary and secondary prevention of urinary calculi.

Search for the scalar top quark in pp collisions at square root[s] = 1.8 TeV

We have performed a search for scalar top quark (stop) pair production in the inclusive electron-muon-missing transverse energy final state, using a sample of pp events corresponding to 108.3 pb(-1) of data collected with the D0 detector at Fermilab. The search is done in the framework of the minimal supersymmetric standard model assuming that the sneutrino is the lightest supersymmetric particle. For the dominant decays of the lightest stop, t-->b chi+1 and t-->blnu, no evidence for signal is found. We derive cross-section limits as a function of stop ( t ), chargino ( chi+1), and sneutrino ( nu) masses.

Search for new physics using QUAERO: a general interface to D0 event data

We describe QUAERO, a method that (i) enables the automatic optimization of searches for physics beyond the standard model, and (ii) provides a mechanism for making high energy collider data generally available. We apply QUAERO to searches for standard model WW, ZZ, and t t macro production, to searches for these objects produced through a new heavy resonance, and to the first direct search for W'-->WZ. Through this interface, we make three data sets collected by the D0 experiment at square root of [s] = 1.8 TeV publicly available.