Comparison of bicarbonate Ringer's solution with lactated Ringer's solution among postoperative outcomes in patients with laparoscopic right hemihepatectomy: a single-centre randomised controlled trial

The study was aimed to investigate the positive impact of bicarbonate Ringer's solution on postoperative outcomes in patients who underwent laparoscopic right hemihepatectomy. Patients in the two groups were infused with lactated Ringer's solution (LRS, n = 38) and the bicarbonate Ringer's solution (BRS, n = 38) at a rate of 5 ml·kg-1·h-1. The stroke volume was monitored and 200 ml of hydroxyethyl starch with 130/0.4 sodium chloride injection (Hes) of a bolus was given in the first 5-10 min. The main outcome was to test lactic acid (LAC) concentration before and after surgery. The concentrations of LAC in the LRS group were higher than in the BRS group at 2 h after operation began, at the end of the operation and 2 h after the operation. Overall, the parameters including pH, base excess (BE), HCO3-, aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) were improved. The values of bilirubin in the LRS group were higher and albumin were lower than in the BRS group at post-operation 1st and 2nd day (P<0.05). The time of prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) in the LRS group were longer than that in the BRS group at post-operation 1st and 2nd day (P<0.05). Likewise, the concentrations of Mg2+, Na+ and K+ also varied significantly. The length of hospital was reduced, and the incidence of premature ventricular contractions (P = 0.042) and total complications (P = 0.016) were lower in group BRS. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was registered at clinicalTrials.gov with the number ChiCTR2000038077 on 09/09/2020.

The Relationship Between Childhood Trauma and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Behavior in Adolescents with Depression: The Mediating Role of Rumination

Objective

Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) behavior is very common in adolescents with depression, and childhood trauma is considered one of the distal risk factors for its exacerbation. Rumination caused by adverse traumatic experiences, which can be transferred through NSSI behavior, can alleviate symptoms of depression in adolescents. The current research focuses on the relationship between the three, further exploring whether rumination is a mediator in the relationship between childhood trauma and NSSI behavior on the basis of previous studies, and provides some suggestions for future early intervention for adolescents with depression.

Methods

A total of 833 adolescent patients with depression who met the DSM-5 criteria for depressive episode were recruited from 12 hospitals in China. The Chinese version of the Function Assessment of Self-mutilation, Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, and Rumination Inventory were used as research tools.

Results

The scores of childhood trauma and rumination in adolescents with depression in the NSSI group were higher than those in the non-NSSI group. A Pearson's correlation analysis showed that childhood trauma was positively correlated with rumination (r=0.165, P<0.01), different types of childhood trauma were significantly positively correlated with rumination and its three factors, and these results were statistically significant. Rumination partially mediated the relationship between childhood trauma and NSSI behavior in depressed adolescent patients (effect size=0.002), and the effect in female participants (effect size=0.003), was greater than that in male participants (effect size=0.002).

Conclusion

Childhood trauma and rumination were key factors for NSSI behavior in adolescents with depression. Childhood trauma not only has a direct effect on NSSI behavior in adolescent depression, but also plays an indirect effect on NSSI behavior through rumination.

The Median Effective Dose of Dexmedetomidine for the Inhibition of Emergence Delirium in Preschool Children Undergoing Tonsillectomy and/or Adenoidectomy: A Retrospective Dose-response Trial

The incidence of emergence delirium (ED) is higher in preschool children undergoing tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy. The purpose of this study was to determine the median effective dose (ED50) of dexmedetomidine (DEX) for the inhibition of ED in preschool children by using probit regression analysis. A total of 140 anesthesia records were retrieved and divided into seven groups based on the infusion rate of DEX: .2, .25, .3, .35, .4, .45, and .5 μg·kg-1·h-1. The Pediatric Anesthesia Emergence Delirium Scale (PAEDS) was used to assess ED in preschool children, and ED was defined as a PAEDS score ≥ 10. Probit regression analysis revealed that the ED50 and ED95 of DEX were .31 μg·kg-1·h-1 (95% CI: .29-.35) and .48 μg·kg-1·h-1 (95% CI: .44-.56), respectively. Probit(p) = -2.84 + 9.28 × ln (Dose), (χ2 = 1.925, P = .859). The PAEDS score was significantly increased in the ED group, and the rate of bradycardia was significantly decreased in the ED group compared with the without ED group (27.3% vs 54.1%, P = .02). DEX can effectively inhibit the ED in preschool children undergoing tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy, however, bradycardia was the main complication.

Impact of sex differences on the clinical presentation, pathogenesis, treatment and prognosis of Sjögren's syndrome

Sjögren's syndrome is a common chronic autoimmune disease that manifests as dry mouth, dry eyes and systemic complications. There are sex differences in the clinical manifestations between men and women, with the average age of onset being around 55 years and the majority of female patients developing the disease during the menopausal years. Understanding the impact of sex differences on SS may help in the treatment and prognosis of patients. Studies have confirmed that a number of factors are associated with the onset of SS, but the exact mechanisms are not fully understood. Sex hormones (especially oestrogens and androgens) play a very important role, and the balance of sex hormone levels in the body is crucial for maintaining homeostasis in the acinar cells of the lacrimal and salivary glands. In addition, chromosomes play a very important role in the sex differences in SS. The gut microbiota also has some influence on sex differences in SS. In this review, we focus on oestrogens and androgens, which are important in the pathogenesis of SS, and summarize the progress of non-clinical studies. Sex differences may influence differences in individualized treatment regimens and further studies are needed.

Correlation analysis of disulfidptosis-related gene signatures with clinical prognosis and immunotherapy response in sarcoma

Disulfidptosis, a newly discovered type of programmed cell death, could be a mechanism of cell death controlled by SLC7A11. This could be closely associated with tumor development and advancement. Nevertheless, the biological mechanism behind disulfidptosis-related genes (DRGs) in sarcoma (SARC) is uncertain. This study identified three valuable genes (SLC7A11, RPN1, GYS1) associated with disulfidptosis in sarcoma (SARC) and developed a prognostic model. The multiple databases and RT-qPCR data confirmed the upregulated expression of prognostic DRGs in SARC. The TCGA internal and ICGC external validation cohorts were utilized to validate the predictive model capacity. Our analysis of DRG riskscores revealed that the low-risk group exhibited a more favorable prognosis than the high-risk group. Furthermore, we observed a significant association between DRG riskscores and different clinical features, immune cell infiltration, immune therapeutic sensitivity, drug sensitivity, and RNA modification regulators. In addition, two external independent immunetherapy datasets and clinical tissue samples were collected, validating the value of the DRGs risk model in predicting immunotherapy response. Finally, the SLC7A11/hsa-miR-29c-3p/LINC00511, and RPN1/hsa-miR-143-3p/LINC00511 regulatory axes were constructed. This study provided DRG riskscore signatures to predict prognosis and response to immunotherapy in SARC, guiding personalized treatment decisions.

Causal effect of porphyria biomarkers on alcohol-related hepatocellular carcinoma through Mendelian Randomization

PURPOSE

According to some cohort studies, an association exists between acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) and liver cancer. However, establishing a definitive causal relationship between porphyria and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains challenging. Prexisting studies regarding porphyria biomarkers and alcohol-related hepatocellular carcinoma (AR-HCC) make possible an entry point. In this study, we aimed to investigate the causal relationships between biomarkers of two types of porphyria, AIP and congenital erythropoietic porphyria (CEP), and AR-HCC.

METHODS

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with porphobilinogen deaminase (PBGD) and uroporphyrinogen-III synthase (UROS), along with outcome data on AR-HCC, were extracted from public genome-wide association studies (GWAS). The GWAS data were then used to explore the potential causal relationships via a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. The effect estimates were calculated using the random-effect inverse-variance-weighted (IVW) method. Additionally, the Cochrane's Q test, MR-Egger test, and leave-one-out analysis were conducted to detect heterogeneity and pleiotropy in the MR results.

RESULTS

Using the IVW method as the primary causal effects model in the MR analyses, we found that both PBGD (effect estimate = 1.51; 95% CI, from 1.08 to 2.11, p = 0.016) and UROS (effect estimate = 1.53; 95% CI, from 1.08 to 2.18, p = 0.018) have a significant causal effect on AR-HCC.

CONCLUSION

Our findings revealed a causal effect of both PBGD and UROS on AR-HCC, suggesting that both AIP and CEP have a causal association with AR-HCC.

The role of long noncoding RNA MEG3 in fibrosis diseases

Fibrosis is a prevalent pathological condition observed in various organs and tissues. It primarily arises from the excessive and abnormal accumulation of the extracellular matrix, resulting in the structural and functional impairment of tissues and organs, which can culminate in death. Many forms of fibrosis, including liver, cardiac, pulmonary, and renal fibrosis, are considered irreversible. Maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) is an imprinted RNA gene. Historically, the downregulation of MEG3 has been linked to tumor pathogenesis. However, recent studies indicate an emerging association of MEG3 with fibrotic diseases. In this review, we delve into the current understanding of MEG3's role in fibrosis, aiming to shed light on the molecular mechanisms of fibrosis and the potential of MEG3 as a novel therapeutic target.

Toxoplasma gondii Causes Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes by Damaging Uterine Tissue-Resident NK Cells That Secrete Growth-Promoting Factors

Vertical transmission of the intracellular parasite, Toxoplasma gondii can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes especially when infection occurs in early pregnancy. Decidual natural killer (dNK) cells accumulate at the maternal-fetal interface in large numbers during early pregnancy. Their nutritional roles during infection with T. gondii remain poorly defined. In the present study, we demonstrated that a functional deficiency of the uterine tissue-resident NK (trNK) cells, a subset of dNK cells, contributes to the adverse pregnancy outcomes induced by T. gondii in early pregnancy. Adverse pregnancy outcomes could be ameliorated by adoptive transfer of trNK cells. Moreover, fetal growth restriction could be improved after supplementation of growth-promoting factors. In addition to the widely recognized disturbance of the immune balance at the interface between the mother and the fetus, our study reveals a novel mechanism in T. gondii that contributes to the adverse pregnancy outcomes.

A review on Zika vaccine development

Zika virus (ZIKV), which belongs to the Flavivirus family, is mainly transmitted via the bite of Aedes mosquitoes. In newborns, ZIKV infection can cause severe symptoms such as microcephaly, while in adults, it can lead to Guillain‒Barré syndrome (GBS). Due to the lack of specific therapeutic methods against ZIKV, the development of a safe and effective vaccine is extremely important. Several potential ZIKV vaccines, such as live attenuated, inactivated, nucleic acid, viral vector, and recombinant subunit vaccines, have demonstrated promising outcomes in clinical trials involving human participants. Therefore, in this review, the recent developmental progress, advantages and disadvantages of these five vaccine types are examined, and practical recommendations for future development are provided.

PSTPIP2 ameliorates aristolochic acid nephropathy by suppressing interleukin-19-mediated neutrophil extracellular trap formation

Aristolochic acid nephropathy (AAN) is a progressive kidney disease caused by herbal medicines. Proline-serine-threonine phosphatase-interacting protein 2 (PSTPIP2) and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) play important roles in kidney injury and immune defense, respectively, but the mechanism underlying AAN regulation by PSTPIP2 and NETs remains unclear. We found that renal tubular epithelial cell (RTEC) apoptosis, neutrophil infiltration, inflammatory factor, and NET production were increased in a mouse model of AAN, while PSTPIP2 expression was low. Conditional knock-in of Pstpip2 in mouse kidneys inhibited cell apoptosis, reduced neutrophil infiltration, suppressed the production of inflammatory factors and NETs, and ameliorated renal dysfunction. Conversely, downregulation of Pstpip2 expression promoted kidney injury. In vivo, the use of Ly6G-neutralizing antibody to remove neutrophils and peptidyl arginine deiminase 4 (PAD4) inhibitors to prevent NET formation reduced apoptosis, alleviating kidney injury. In vitro, damaged RTECs released interleukin-19 (IL-19) via the PSTPIP2/nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathway and induced NET formation via the IL-20Rβ receptor. Concurrently, NETs promoted apoptosis of damaged RTECs. PSTPIP2 affected NET formation by regulating IL-19 expression via inhibition of NF-κB pathway activation in RTECs, inhibiting RTEC apoptosis, and reducing kidney damage. Our findings indicated that neutrophils and NETs play a key role in AAN and therapeutic targeting of PSTPIP2/NF-κB/IL-19/IL-20Rβ might extend novel strategies to minimize Aristolochic acid I-mediated acute kidney injury and apoptosis.

The evolution of female-biased genital diversity in bedbugs (Cimicidae)

Rapid genitalia evolution is believed to be mainly driven by sexual selection. Recently, noncopulatory genital functions have been suggested to exert stronger selection pressure on female genitalia than copulatory functions. In bedbugs (Cimicidae), the impact of the copulatory function can be isolated from the noncopulatory impact. Unlike in other taxa, female copulatory organs have no function in egg-laying or waste-product expulsion. Males perform traumatic mating by piercing the female integument, thereby imposing antagonistic selection on females and suspending selection to morphologically match female genitalia. We found the location of the copulatory organ evolved rapidly, changing twice between dorsal and ventral sides, and several times along the anteroposterior and the left-right axes. Male genital length and shape varied much less, did not appear to follow the positional changes seen in females, and showed no evidence for coevolution. Female genitalia position evolved 1.5 times faster than male genital length and shape and showed little neutral or geographic signals. Instead, we propose that nonmorphological male traits, such as mating behavior, may drive female genitalia morphology in this taxon. Models of genitalia evolution may benefit from considering morphological genital responses to nonmorphological stimuli, such as male mating behavior or copulatory position.

Epigenetic Regulatory Axis MIR22-TET3-MTRNR2L2 Represses Fibroblast-Like Synoviocyte-Mediated Inflammation in Rheumatoid Arthritis

OBJECTIVE

The specific role of fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is still not fully elucidated. This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanisms of epigenetic pathways, including three epigenetic factors, microRNA (miRNA)-22 (MIR22), ten-eleven translocation methylcytosine dioxygenase 3 (TET3), and MT-RNR2 like 2 (MTRNR2L2), in RA-FLSs.

METHODS

The expression of MIR22, TET3, and MTRNR2L2 in the synovium of patients with RA and arthritic mice were determined by fluorescence in situ hybridization, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), immunohistochemistry, and Western blot. Mir22-/- and Tet3+/- mice were used to establish a collagen antibody-induced arthritis (CAIA) model. Mir22 angomir and Tet3 small interfering RNA (siRNA) were used to illustrate the therapeutic effects on arthritis using a collagen-induced (CIA) model. Bioinformatics, luciferase reporter assay, 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) dot blotting, chromatin immunoprecipitation-qPCR, and hydroxymethylated DNA immunoprecipitation were conducted to show the direct repression of MIR22 on the TET3 and transcriptional activation of TET3 on MTRNR2L2.

RESULTS

The Mir22-/- CAIA model and RA-FLS-related in vitro experiments demonstrated the inhibitory effect of MIR22 on inflammation. MIR22 can directly inhibit the translation of TET3 in RA-FLSs by binding to its 3' untranslated region in TET3. The Tet3+/- mice-established CAIA model showed less severe symptoms of arthritis in vivo. In vitro experiments further confirmed the proinflammatory effect of TET3 in RA. In addition, the CIA model was used to validate the therapeutic effects of Mir22 angomir and Tet3 siRNA. Finally, TET3 exerts its proinflammatory effect by promoting 5hmC production in the promoter of its target MTRNR2L2 in RA-FLSs.

CONCLUSION

The key role of the MIR22-TET3-MTRNR2L2 pathway in RA-FLSs provided an experimental basis for further studies into the pathogenesis and related targets of RA from the perspective of FLSs.

Versatile Design of Organic Polymeric Nanoparticles for Photodynamic Therapy of Prostate Cancer

Radical prostatectomy is a primary treatment option for localized prostate cancer (PCa), although high rates of recurrence are commonly observed postsurgery. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has demonstrated efficacy in treating nonmetastatic localized PCa with a low incidence of adverse events. However, its limited efficacy remains a concern. To address these issues, various organic polymeric nanoparticles (OPNPs) loaded with photosensitizers (PSs) that target prostate cancer have been developed. However, further optimization of the OPNP design is necessary to maximize the effectiveness of PDT and improve its clinical applicability. This Review provides an overview of the design, preparation, methodology, and oncological aspects of OPNP-based PDT for the treatment of PCa.

Chloroprocaine antagonizes progression of breast cancer by regulating LINC00494/miR-3619-5p/MED19 axis

Breast cancer, as the most prevalent female malignancy, leads the cancer-related death in women worldwide. Local anesthetic chloroprocaine exhibits antitumor potential, but its specific functions and underlying molecular mechanisms in breast cancer remain unclear. Here, we demonstrated chloroprocaine significantly inhibited proliferation, invasion and induced apoptosis of breast cancer cells in vitro. Tumor growth and pulmonary metastasis were also suppressed in BABL/c nude mice model with chloroprocaine treatment. LINC00494 was identified as one of the most downregulated long noncoding RNAs in chloroprocaine-treated breast cancer cells by high-throughput sequencing. Futhermore, high level of LINC00494 was positively associated with poor outcome of breast cancer patients. LINC00494 acted as a "miRNAs sponge" to compete with MED19 for the biding of miR-3619-5p, led to the upregulation of MED19. LINC00494/miR-3619-5p/MED19 axis participated in chloroprocaine-mediated inhibition of proliferation, invasion and promotion of apoptosis of breast cancer cells. Consequently, our finding suggested local anesthetic chloroprocaine attenuated breast cancer aggressiveness through LINC00494-mediated signaling pathway, which detailly revealed the clinical value of chloroprocaine during breast cancer treatment.

Cucurbitacin E reduces IL-1β-induced inflammation and cartilage degeneration by inhibiting the PI3K/Akt pathway in osteoarthritic chondrocytes

BACKGROUND

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease. Cartilage degeneration is the earliest and most important pathological change in osteoarthritis, and persistent inflammation is one of the driving factors of cartilage degeneration. Cucurbitacin E, an isolated compound in the Cucurbitacin family, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, but its role and mechanism in osteoarthritic chondrocytes are unclear.

METHODS

For in vitro experiments, human chondrocytes were stimulated with IL-1β, and the expression of inflammatory genes was measured by Western blotting and qPCR. The expression of extracellular matrix proteins was evaluated by immunofluorescence staining, Western blotting and saffron staining. Differences in gene expression between cartilage from osteoarthritis patients and normal cartilage were analysed by bioinformatics methods, and the relationship between Cucurbitacin E and its target was analysed by a cellular thermal shift assay, molecular docking analysis and molecular dynamics simulation. For in vivo experiments, knee osteoarthritis was induced by DMM in C57BL/6 mouse knee joints, and the effect of Cucurbitacin E on knee joint degeneration was evaluated.

RESULTS

The in vitro experiments confirmed that Cucurbitacin E effectively inhibited the production of the inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1β(IL-1β) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) by IL-1β-stimulated chondrocytes and alleviates extracellular matrix degradation. The in vivo experiments demonstrated that Cucurbitacin E had a protective effect on the knee cartilage of C57BL/6 mice with medial meniscal instability in the osteoarthritis model. Mechanistically, bioinformatic analysis of the GSE114007 and GSE117999 datasets showed that the PI3K/AKT pathway was highly activated in osteoarthritis. Immunohistochemical analysis of PI3K/Akt signalling pathway proteins in pathological slices of human cartilage showed that the level of p-PI3K in patients with osteoarthritis was higher than that in the normal group. PI3K/Akt were upregulated in IL-1β-stimulated chondrocytes, and Cucurbitacin E intervention reversed this phenomenon. The cellular thermal shift assay, molecular docking analysis and molecular dynamics experiment showed that Cucurbitacin E had a strong binding affinity for the inhibitory target PI3K. SC79 activated Akt phosphorylation and reversed the effect of Cucurbitacin E on IL-1β-induced chondrocyte degeneration, demonstrating that Cucurbitacin E inhibits IL-1β-induced chondrocyte inflammation and degeneration by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT pathway.

CONCLUSION

Cucurbitacin E inhibits the activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, thereby alleviating the progression of OA. In summary, we believe that Cucurbitacin E is a potential drug for the treatment of OA.

Impact of low serum iron on treatment outcome of PD-1 inhibitors in advanced gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of serum iron levels in advanced gastric cancer (GC) patients treated with programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) inhibitors.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 149 GC patients who were treated with PD-1 inhibitors at our center. Clinicopathological characteristics, laboratory data, and clinical outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

Multivariate analysis showed that Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS), histological subtype, and baseline serum iron levels were independent prognostic factors for overall survival (OS), while ECOG PS, multiple metastatic sites, and baseline serum iron levels were independent prognostic factors for progression-free survival (PFS). Patients with baseline low serum iron levels (LSI) had a significantly shorter median OS and PFS compared to patients with normal serum iron levels (NSI) (Median OS: 7 vs. 14 months, p = 0.001; median PFS: 3 vs. 5 months, p = 0.005). Patients with baseline LSI had a disease control rate (DCR) of 58.3% at 2 months after PD-1 inhibitor initiation (M2), compared to 81.1% in patients with NSI (p = 0.005). Patients with baseline LSI had a DCR of 43.8% at 4 months, compared to 64.2% in patients with NSI (p = 0.017).

CONCLUSIONS

LSI was associated with worse OS, PFS, and DCR in GC patients treated with PD-1 inhibitors and might be a quick and efficient biomarker to predict the efficacy of PD-1 inhibitors.

Ethyl caffeate combined with fluconazole exhibits efficacy against azole-resistant oropharyngeal candidiasis via the EFGR/JNK/c-JUN signaling pathway

Ethyl caffeate (EC) is a phenylpropanoid compound derived from Elephantopus scaber. In our previous work, EC was investigated to have a strong synergistic antifungal effect against azole-resistant strains of Candida albicans when combined with fluconazole (FLU). However, the protective effect and mechanism of EC + FLU on oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC) caused by drug-resistant strains of C. albicans have not been investigated. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect and mechanism of EC combined with FLU against C. albicans-resistant strains that lead to OPC. An OPC mouse model revealed that EC + FLU treatment reduced fungal load and massive hyphal invasion of tongue tissues, and ameliorated the integrity of the tongue mucosa. Periodic acid-Schiff staining results showed more structural integrity of the tongue tissues and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration after EC + FLU treatment. Phosphorylation of EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) and other proteins in the EFGR/JNK (c-Jun N-terminal kinase)/c-JUN (transcription factor Jun) signaling pathway was significantly downregulated by EC + FLU. EGFR and S100A9 mRNA expression were also reduced. The above results were verified in FaDu cells. ELISA results showed that the concentration of inflammatory factors in the cell supernatant was significantly reduced after EC combined with FLU treatment. Molecular docking revealed that EC exhibited high binding energy to EGFR. In conclusion, EC enhances the susceptibility of azole-resistant C. albicans to FLU, and the underlying mechanism is related to the inhibition of the EGFR/JNK/c-JUN signaling pathway. This result suggests that EC has potential to be developed as an antifungal sensitizer to treat OPC caused by azole-resistant C. albicans.

Pancreatic Cancer and its Attributable Risk Factors in East Asia, Now and Future

BACKGROUND

The disease burden of pancreatic cancer in East Asia is at a high level, but the epidemiological characteristics of pancreatic cancer in the region have not been systematically studied.

METHOD

Joinpoint analysis was used to identify average annual percentage change (AAPC) and annual percentage change (APC) in mortality. Age-period-cohort models were used to analyze age-period cohort effects across countries. Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) analysis was used to project the burden of disease for 2020-2030.

RESULTS

Pancreatic cancer mortality in males in Japan (2012-2019, APC = -0.97) and Korea (2012-2019, APC = -0.91) has shown a decreasing trend since 2012 (P < .05). However, China (2016-2019, APC = 3.21), Mongolia (2015-2.019, APC = 2.37), and North Korea (2012-2019, APC = 0.47) showed a significant increase in pancreatic cancer in both genders (P < .05). Risk factors for pancreatic cancer in East Asia remained largely stable between 2010 and 2019. Mortality of pancreatic cancer due to smoking began to decline in areas with high socio-demographic index (SDI), and mortality of pancreatic cancer due to high body mass index and high fasting plasma glucose increased with SDI. The age-standardized mortality for pancreatic cancer in Chinese males is expected to exceed that of Japan and South Korea by 2030, but the disease burden of pancreatic cancer in Japan and South Korea remains at extremely high levels.

CONCLUSION

Economically developed countries are beginning to show a decreasing trend in the burden of pancreatic cancer disease, and developing countries are experiencing a rapid increase in the age-standardized death rate (ASDR) of pancreatic cancer.

Excessive Daytime Sleepiness and Insomnia Symptoms in Adolescents With Major Depressive Disorder: Prevalence, Clinical Correlates, and the Relationship With Psychiatric Medications Use

OBJECTIVE

Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) and insomnia symptoms are common in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), which might lead to a poor prognosis and an increased risk of depression relapse. The current study aimed to investigate the prevalence, and sociodemographic and clinical correlates of EDS and insomnia symptoms among adolescents with MDD.

METHODS

The sample of this cross-sectional study included 297 adolescents (mean age=15.26 years; range=12-18 years; 218 females) with MDD recruited from three general and four psychiatric hospitals in five cities (Hefei, Bengbu, Fuyang, Suzhou, and Ma'anshan) in Anhui Province, China between January and August, 2021. EDS and insomnia symptoms, and clinical severity of depressive symptoms were assessed using Epworth sleepiness scale, Insomnia Severity Index, and Clinical Global Impression-Severity.

RESULTS

The prevalence of EDS and insomnia symptoms in adolescents with MDD was 39.7% and 38.0%, respectively. Binary logistic regression analyses showed that EDS symptoms were significantly associated with higher body mass index (odds ratio [OR]=1.097, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.027-1.172), more severe depressive symptoms (OR=1.313, 95% CI=1.028-1.679), and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors use (OR=2.078, 95% CI=1.199-3.601). And insomnia symptoms were positively associated with female sex (OR=1.955, 95% CI=1.052-3.633), suicide attempts (OR=1.765, 95% CI=1.037-3.005), more severe depressive symptoms (OR=2.031, 95% CI=1.523-2.709), and negatively associated with antipsychotics use (OR=0.433, 95% CI=0.196-0.952).

CONCLUSION

EDS and insomnia symptoms are common among adolescents with MDD. Considering their negative effects on the clinical prognosis, regular screening and clinical managements should be developed for this patient population.

Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields Improved Peripheral Nerve Regeneration After Delayed Repair of One Month

The goal of this study was to determine if postoperative pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs) could improve the neuromuscular rehabilitation after delayed repair of peripheral nerve injuries. Thirty-six Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham group, control group, and PEMFs group. The sciatic nerves were transected except for the control group. One month later, the nerve ends of the former two groups were reconnected. PEMFs group of rats was subjected to PEMFs thereafter. Control group and sham group received no treatment. Four and 8 weeks later, morphological and functional changes were measured. Four and eight weeks postoperatively, compared to sham group, the sciatic functional indices (SFIs) of PEMFs group were higher. More axons regenerated distally in PEMFs group. The fiber diameters of PEMFs group were larger. However, the axon diameters and myelin thicknesses were not different between these two groups. The brain-derived neurotrophic factor and vascular endothelial growth factor expressions were higher in PEMFs group after 8 weeks. Semi-quantitative IOD analysis for the intensity of positive staining indicated that there were more BDNF, VEGF, and NF200 in PEMFs group. It's concluded that PEMFs have effect on the axonal regeneration after delayed nerve repair of one month. The upregulated expressions of BDNF and VEGF may play roles in this process. © 2023 Bioelectromagnetics Society.

Macrophage autophagy contributes to immune liver injury in trichloroethylene sensitized mice: Critical role of TNF-α mediating mTOR pathway

Trichloroethylene (TCE) induces occupational medicamentosa-like dermatitis due to TCE (OMDT) with immune liver injury, and TNF-α plays an important role in macrophage polarization and liver injury. However, TNF-α regulating macrophage polarization in liver injury induced by TCE is still unknown. Thus, on the basis of our previous research, we established the TCE-sensitized BALB/c mouse model with R7050, a specific inhibitor of TNFR1. Then, we observed significant decreases in autophagy related protein and gene levels in M1 macrophage in TCE positive group, and R7050 can relieve M1 macrophage autophagy. We also found the phosphorylated form of mammalian target of Rapamycin (mTOR) was activated and the expression of p-mTOR protein increased induce by TCE. In vitro, we found TNFR1 and CD11c were increased in RAW264.7 cell line with TNF-α. And then we use Zafirlukast (Zaf), an TNFR1 antagonist, CD11c and TNFR1 reduced significantly, we also found p-mTOR expression increased after TNF-α treatment, but decreased in TNF-α + Zaf group. Further, we used Rapamycin (RAP), a mTOR-specific inhibitor, to establish a TCE-sensitized mice model and found the expression levels of p62 and p-mTOR proteins increased and LC3B decreased in the TCE positive group, while RAP treatment reversed the trends of all of these proteins. Rapamycin prevented the TNF-α-induced p-mTOR increase and dramatically downregulated IL-1β expression in the RAW264.7 cell line with TNF-α treatment. The results uncover a novel role for TNF-α/TNFR1, which promotes M1 polarization of macrophage and suppresses macrophage autophagy via the mTOR pathway.

Development and validation of a kidney renal clear cell carcinoma prognostic model relying on pyroptosis-related LncRNAs-A multidimensional comprehensive bioinformatics exploration

BACKGROUND

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a malignant tumour that may develop in the kidney. RCC is one of the most common kinds of tumours of this sort, and its most common pathological subtype is kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC). However, the aetiology and pathogenesis of RCC still need to be clarified. Exploring the internal mechanism of RCC contributes to diagnosing and treating this disease. Pyroptosis is a critical process related to cell death. Recent research has shown that pyroptosis is a critical factor in the initiation and progression of tumour formation. Thus far, researchers have progressively uncovered evidence of the regulatory influence that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have on pyroptosis.

METHODS

In this work, a comprehensive bioinformatics approach was used to produce a predictive model according to pyroptosis-interrelated lncRNAs for the purpose of predicting the overall survival and molecular immune specialties of patients diagnosed with KIRC. This model was verified from multiple perspectives.

RESULTS

First, we discovered pyroptosis-associated lncRNAs in KIRC patients using the TCGA database and a Sankey diagram. Then, we developed and validated a KIRC patient risk model based on pyroptosis-related lncRNAs. We demonstrated the grouping power of PLnRM through PCA and used PLnRM to assess the tumour immune microenvironment and response to immunotherapy. Immunological and molecular traits of diverse PLnRM subgroups were evaluated, as were clinical KIRC patient characteristics and predictive risk models. On this basis, a predictive nomogram was developed and analyzed, and novel PLnRM candidate compounds were identified. Finally, we investigated possible medications used by KIRC patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The results demonstrate that the model generated has significant value for KIRC in clinical practice.

Correction to "Carboxymethyl Chitosan Oligosaccharide Holds Promise for Treatment of Stenosis Crohn's Disease"

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00035.].

TMEM232 promotes the inflammatory response in atopic dermatitis via the nuclear factor-κB and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 signalling pathways

BACKGROUND

Our group previously found that the transmembrane protein 232 (TMEM232) gene was associated with atopic dermatitis (AD) by genome-wide association study and fine mapping study. However, its function is unclear so far.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the roles and mechanisms of TMEM232 in AD.

METHODS

The expression of TMEM232 was investigated in skin lesions of patients with AD, the MC903-induced AD mouse model, human primary keratinocytes and immortalized human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT) cells stimulated with different inflammatory factors. The role of TMEM232 in AD was analysed in HaCaT cells and Tmem232 knockout (Tmem232-/-) mice. Tmem232-specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to evaluate its therapeutic potential in the AD mouse model.

RESULTS

The expression of TMEM232 was significantly increased in skin lesions of patients with AD, the MC903-induced AD mouse model and human primary keratinocytes and HaCaT cells stimulated with different inflammatory factors compared with controls. In the presence of MC903, Tmem232-/- mice exhibited significantly reduced dermatitis severity, mast-cell infiltration in the back, and expression of T-helper (Th)1 and Th2-related inflammatory factors in skin tissue compared with wild-type mice. In vitro and in vivo experiments further showed that upregulation of TMEM232 in AD exacerbated the inflammation response through activating the pathway of nuclear factor-κB and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3, and was regulated by the interleukin-4/STAT6 axis, which formed a self-amplifying loop. Finally, topical application of Tmem232 siRNA markedly ameliorated AD-like lesions in the AD model.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first to outline the function of TMEM232. It is involved in regulating inflammation in AD and may be a potential target for AD treatment.

Bidirectional causal relationship between depression and frailty: a univariate and multivariate Mendelian randomisation study

BACKGROUND

cumulative evidence from cohort studies suggested that there were inconsistent conclusions as to whether there was a bidirectional association between depression and frailty. Therefore, this study used a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomisation (MR) study to investigate the causal relationship between depression and frailty.

METHODS

we performed univariate and multivariate bidirectional MR analyses to assess the causal association between depression and frailty. Independent genetic variants associated with depression and frailty were selected as instrumental variables. Inverse variance weighted (IVW), MR-Egger, weighted median and weighted mode were mainly used in univariate MR analysis. Multivariate MR (MVMR) analyses used multivariable inverse variance-weighted methods to individually and jointly adjust for three potential confounders, body mass index (BMI), age at menarche (AAM) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR, adjusted for BMI).

RESULTS

univariate MR analysis showed a positive causal relationship between depression and risk of frailty (IVW, odds ratio (OR) = 1.30, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.23-1.37, P = 6.54E-22). Causal relationship between frailty and risk of depression (IVW, OR = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.33-2.16, P = 2.09E-05). MVMR analysis revealed that the bidirectional causal association between depression and frailty remained after adjusting for three potential confounders, BMI, AAM and WHR (adjusted for BMI), individually and in combination.

CONCLUSIONS

our findings supported a causal relationship between genetically predicted depression and frailty in both directions.

Case report: "Major fetal cardiac pathology associated with a novel CTNND1 mutation"

Background

The p120-ctn protein, encoded by CTNND1, is involved in intercellular connections and regulates epithelial-mesenchymal transformation. CTNND1 mutations can lead to blepharocheilodontic syndrome (BCDS). Increasing evidence shows that although BCDS mainly manifests as craniofacial and oral deformities, it can also present as congenital heart disease, limb deformities, and neurodevelopmental disorders.

Case description

We report a prenatal case of a major cardiac malformation at 24⁺³ weeks of gestation. Ultrasound examination revealed a hypoplastic left ventricular, aortic coarctation, and a ventricular septal defect. Genetic analysis of the fetal tissues showed the presence of a novel mutation in CTNND1 (NM_001085458.2: c.566_c.567insG; p.Pro190fs*15), which may lead to premature termination of protein coding, while both the parents harbored wild-type CTNND1. To date, only 15 CTNND1 mutations have been reported in 19 patients worldwide, of which approximately 31% (6/19) had a cardiac phenotype.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of fetal complicated cardiac malformations caused by this CTNND1 mutation. Our findings provide new clinical references for prenatal diagnosis and suggest an important role for CTNND1 in early cardiac development.

Glutamatergic neurons and GABAergic neurons of medial prefrontal cortex control hoarding-like behavior

Hoarding disorder (HD) is a chronic disease that begins early in life and does not remission unless timely treated. A large number of factors affect the presentation of HD symptoms, including a strong possessive psychology of objects and neurocognitive functioning. However, the underlying neural mechanisms of the excessive hoarding behavior in HD are still unknown. Using viral infections and brain slice electrophysiology recordings, we found that increased glutamatergic neuronal activity and decreased GABAergic neuronal activity in medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) accelerated the hoarding-like behavior in mice. Respectively, chemogenetic manipulation to reduce glutamatergic neuronal activity or enhance GABAergic neuronal activity could improve the hoarding-like behavioral response. These results reveal a critical role played by alterations in the activity of specific types of neurons in hoarding-like behavior, and that targeted therapies for HD may be possible by precisely modulating these types of neurons.

Bethesda system reporting rates, histological follow-up and HPV genotypes distribution of abnormal cytology in Anhui province of China: Analysis of 93,168 cervical liquid-based cytology test reports

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the Bethesda System reporting rates, histological follow-up, and HPV genotypes distribution of abnormal cytology in Anhui province of China.

METHODS

According to the Bethesda Reporting System of Cervical Cytology (2014), a retrospective analysis of the cervical liquid-based cytology (LBC) results, abnormal cytology with concurrent HPV genotype testing, and immediate histological follow-up. HPV genotype testing was performed for 15 High-risk types and 6 Low-risk types. Immediate histological correlation results within 6 months after the LBC and HPV results.

RESULTS

6.70% of women with abnormal LBC results, and ASC/SIL was 1.42. The severe histological results in abnormal cytology were ASC-US (18.58%), ASC-H (53.76%), LSIL (16.62%), HSIL (82.07%), SCC/ACa (100.00%), AGC (63.77%). The total HPV-positive rate in abnormal cytology was 70.29%, of which ASC-US, ASC-H, LSIL, HSIL, SCC/ACa, and AGC were 60.78%, 80.83%, 83.05%, 84.93%, 84.51%, 33.33%. The top three detected genotypes were HR HPV 16, 52, and 58. The most commonly detected genotype in HSIL and SCC/ACa was HPV 16. Of the 91 AGC patients, 34.78% were cervical lesions, and 42.03% were endometrial lesions. The HPV-positive rate in the group of AGC-FN was highest and lowest in the group of AGC-EM.

CONCLUSION

The Bethesda System reporting rates of cervical cytology were all within the benchmark range of the CAP laboratory. HPV 16, 52, and 58 were the most common genotypes in our population, and HPV 16 infection has a higher degree of malignancy of cervical lesions. Among patients with ASC-US results, HPV positive patients had a higher rate of biopsy-detected CIN2+ than HPV negative patients.

ST36 acupoint injection with anisodamine for postoperative nausea and vomiting in female patients after bariatric surgery: a prospective, randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The use of multimodal pharmacological prophylactic regimes has decreased postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in general but it still occurs in over 60% of female patients after bariatric surgery. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of ST36 acupoint injection with anisodamine in prevention of PONV among female patients after bariatric surgery.

METHODS

Ninety patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy were randomly allocated to anisodamine or control group at the ratio of 2:1. Anisodamine or normal saline was injected into Zusanli (ST36) bilaterally after induction of general anesthesia. The incidence and severity of PONV were assessed during the first 3 postoperative days and at 3 months. The quality of early recovery of anesthesia, gastrointestinal function, sleep quality, anxiety, depression, and complications were also evaluated.

RESULTS

Baseline and perioperative characteristics were comparable between two groups. In the anisodamine group, 25 patients (42.4%) experienced vomiting within postoperative 24 h compared with 21 (72.4%) in the control group (relative risk 0.59; 95% confidence interval 0.40-0.85). Time to first rescue antiemetic was 6.5 h in anisodamine group, and 1.7 h in the control group (P = 0.011). Less rescue antiemetic was required during the first 24 h in the anisodamine group (P = 0.024). There were no differences in either postoperative nausea or other recovery characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of ST36 acupoint injection with anisodamine significantly reduced postoperative vomiting without affecting nausea in female patients with obesity undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.

Genetic variants of Dabie bandavirus: classification and biological/clinical implications

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging infectious disease caused by Dabie bandavirus (DBV), a novel Bandavirus in the family Phenuiviridae. The first case of SFTS was reported in China, followed by cases in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Vietnam. With clinical manifestations including fever, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and gastrointestinal symptoms, SFTS has a fatality rate of approximately 10%. In recent years, an increasing number of viral strains have been isolated and sequenced, and several research groups have attempted to classify the different genotypes of DBV. Additionally, accumulating evidence indicates certain correlations between the genetic makeup and biological/clinical manifestations of the virus. Here, we attempted to evaluate the genetic classification of different groups, align the genotypic nomenclature in different studies, summarize the distribution of different genotypes, and review the biological and clinical implications of DBV genetic variations.

Precision shaping of elastic stable intramedullary nail for the treatment of metaphyseal diaphysis junction fracture of the distal radius in children: a preliminary report in two centers

BACKGROUND

This study introduces a novel retrograde precision shaping elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN-RPS) technique and reports clinical outcomes in pediatric distal radius metaphyseal diaphysis junction (DRMDJ) fracture.

METHODS

Data about DRMDJs were collected from February 1, 2020, to April 31, 2022 at two hospitals, retrospectively. All patients were treated with closed reduction and ESIN-RPS fixation. The operation time, blood loss, fluoroscopy times, alignment, and residual angulation on X-ray were recorded. At the last follow-up, the function of wrist and forearm rotation were evaluated.

RESULTS

Totally, 23 patients were recruited. The mean time of follow-up was 11 months and the minimum was 6 months. The mean operation time was 52 min, and the mean fluoroscopies pulses were 6 times. The postoperative anterioposterior (AP) alignment was 93 ± 4% and the lateral alignment was 95 ± 3%. The postoperative AP angulation was (4 ± 1)°, and the lateral angulation was (3 ± 1)°. At the last follow-up, the evaluation of the Gartland and Werley demerit criteria of wrist revealed 22 excellent cases and 1 good case. The forearm rotation and thumb dorsiflexion functions were not limited.

CONCLUSION

The ESIN-RPS is a novel, safe, and effective method for the treatment of pediatric DRMDJ fracture.

Double spiral chip-embedded micro-trapezoid filters (SMT filters) for the sensitive isolation of CTCs of prostate cancer by spectral detection

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are cancer cells that are released from the original tumor and circulate in the blood vessels, carrying greatly similar constituents as the original tumor. Therefore, CTCs have a significant value in cancer prognosis, early diagnosis, and anti-cancer therapy. However, their rarity and heterogeneity make the isolation of CTCs an arduous task. In the present research, we propose a double spiral chip-embedded micro-trapezoid filter (SMT filter) for the sensitive isolation of the CTCs of prostate cancer by spectral detection. SMT filters were elongated to effectively capture CTCs and this distinctive design was conducive to their isolation and enrichment. The SMT filters were verified with tumor cells and artificial patient blood with a capture efficiency as high as 94% at a flow rate of 1.5 mL h^-1. As a further validation, the SMT filters were validated in isolating CTCs from 10 prostate cancers and other cancers in 4 mL blood samples. Also, the CTCs tested positive for each patient blood sample, ranging from 83-114 CTCs. Significantly, we advanced hyperspectral imaging to detect the characteristic spectrum of CTCs both captured in situ on SMT filters and enriched after isolation. The CTCs could be positively identified by hyperspectral imaging with complete integrity of the cell morphology and an improved characteristic spectrum. This represents a breakthrough in the conventional surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy of nanoparticles. Also, the characteristic spectrum of the CTCs would be highly beneficial for distinguishing the cancer type and accurate for enumerating tumor cells with varied intensities. Furthermore, a novel integrated flower-shaped microfilter was presented with all these aforementioned merits. The success of both the SMT filters and characteristic spectral detection indicated their feasibility for further clinical analysis, the evaluation of cancer therapy, and for potential application.

LFA-1/ ICAM-1 promotes NK cell cytotoxicity associated with the pathogenesis of ocular toxoplasmosis in murine model

Ocular toxoplasmosis (OT) is one of the most common causes of posterior uveitis. However, the pathogenic mechanisms of OT have not been well elucidated. Here, we used C57BL/6 (B6) mice to establish OT by peroral infection with 20 cysts of the TgCtWh6 strain, and severe ocular damage was observed by histopathological analysis in the eyes of infected mice. RNA-sequencing results showed that infection with T. gondii increased the expression of the NK-mediated cytotoxicity gene pathway at Day 30 after ocular T. gondii infection. Both NK-cell and CD49a+ NK-cell subsets are increased in ocular tissues, and the expression levels of LFA-1 in NK cells and ICAM-1 in the OT murine model were upregulated upon infection. Furthermore, inhibition of the interaction between LFA-1 and ICAM-1 with lifitegrast, a novel small molecule integrin antagonist, inhibited the protein expression of LFA-1 and ICAM-1 in murine OT and NK cells, improved the pathology of murine OT and influenced the secretion of cytokines in the OT murine model. In conclusion, the interaction between LFA-1 and ICAM-1 plays a role in the early regulation of the CD49a+ NK-cell proportion in an OT murine model. LFA-1/ ICAM-1 may be a key molecule in the pathogenesis of OT, and may provide new insights for potential immunotherapy.

Evaluation of abdominal compression-decompression combined with chest compression CPR performed by a new device: Is the prognosis improved after this combination CPR technique?

INTRODUCTION

This study was designed to compare the outcomes of standard cardiopulmonary resuscitation (STD-CPR) and combined chest compression and abdominal compression-decompression cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CO-CPR) with a new device following out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Moreover, we investigated whether patient prognosis improved with this combination treatment.

METHODS

This trial was a single-centre, prospective, randomized trial, and a blinded assessment of the outcomes was performed. A total of 297 consecutive patients with OHCA were initially screened, and 278 were randomized to the STD-CPR group (n = 135) or the CO-CPR group (n = 143). We compared the proportions of patients who achieved a return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), survived to hospital admission and survived to hospital discharge. In addition, we also performed the Kaplan-Meier analysis with a log-rank test at the end of the follow-up period to compare the survival curves of the two groups.

RESULTS

The differences were not statistically significant in the proportion of patients who achieved ROSC [31/135 (23.0%) versus 35/143 (24.5%)] and survived to hospital admission [28/135 (20.7%) versus 33/143 (23.1%)] between the CO-CPR group and STD-CPR group. However, there was a significant difference in the proportion of patients who survived to hospital discharge [16/135 (11.9%) versus 7/143 (4.9%)] between the two groups. Nine patients (6.7%) in the CO-CPR group and 2 patients (1.4%) in the STD group showed good neurological outcomes according to the cerebral performance category (CPC) scale score, and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.003). The Kaplan-Meier curves showed that the patients in the CO-CPR group achieved better survival benefits than those in the STD-CPR group at the end of the follow-up period (log-rank P = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

CO-CPR was more beneficial than STD-CPR in terms of survival benefits in patients who have suffered out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, registered number: ChiCTR2100049581 . Registered 30 July 2021- Retrospectively registered. http://www.medresman.org.cn/uc/index.aspx .

Carboxymethyl Chitosan Oligosaccharide Holds Promise for Treatment of Stenosis Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease (CD) is a chronic intestinal disturbance mediated by mucosal immune hyperactivity that is often associated with the formation of stenosis. No reliable solution to stenosis CD exists so far. Therefore, we generated carboxymethyl chitosan oligosaccharide (CMCOS) as a new promising therapy and investigate its efficacy in an improved rat CD model. CMCOS was synthesized by enzymatic hydrolysis, and its biosafety was evaluated in vivo. The rat model of stenosis CD was optimized by an orthogonal experiment of 75 or 100 mg/kg trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS) in a 50 or 75% ethanol enema. The therapeutic efficacy of CMCOS on the rat model of stenosis CD was investigated and compared with the commercial drug 5-aminosalicylic acid over a 28 day period of disease progression. The rat model of stenosis CD was well established by intracolonic administration of 75 mg/kg TNBS in 75% ethanol. CMCOS significantly alleviated CD symptoms morphologically, hematologically, and pathologically, promoting functional recovery of intestinal epithelium in a dose-dependent manner. CMCOS reduced infiltrations of inflammatory cells by regulating the IL-17A/PPAR-γ pathway and reduced fibro-proliferation and fibro-degeneration of the colon tissue by downregulating the TGF-β1/WT1 pathway. 75 mg/kg TNBS in a 75% ethanol enema induces a rat model of stenosis CD suitable for preclinical pathology and pharmacological studies. The safety, antifibrosis, and functional repair performance of CMCOS make it a promising candidate for the treatment of stenosis CD.

CD19 and POU2AF1 are Potential Immune-Related Biomarkers Involved in the Emphysema of COPD: On Multiple Microarray Analysis

Purpose

Emphysema is the main cause of the progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study aimed to identify the key genes involved in COPD-related emphysema.

Patients and Methods

GSE76925 was downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus database. Protein–protein interaction networks of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between control and COPD groups were constructed to identify hub genes using Cytoscape. Diagnostic performance of hub genes was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic analysis. Correlation analysis was performed to identify the key genes by analyzing the relationship between the hub genes and lung function and computed tomography (CT) indexes of emphysema. COPD patients were then divided into two groups based on the median expression of key genes and DEGs between these two groups were identified. Enrichment analysis of DEGs and correlation analysis between key genes and the infiltration of the immune cells were also analyzed. Finally, the role of key genes was evaluated in a lung tissues dataset (GSE47460) and a blood dataset (GSE76705). Additionally, the expression of key genes was validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry.

Results

CD19 and POU2AF1 had diagnostic efficacy for COPD and were significantly correlated with lung function and CT indexes of emphysema. Enrichment and immune analyses revealed that CD19 and POU2AF1 were correlated with the B cells in COPD. These results were consistent in GSE47460. The expression of CD19 and POU2AF1 in blood was the opposite of that in lung tissues, and CD19 and POU2AF1 were both significantly upregulated in COPD lung tissues at both the mRNA and protein levels.

Conclusion

CD19 and POU2AF1 may serve as key regulators of emphysema and contribute to the progression of COPD by regulating the B-cell immunology. Targeting B cells may be a promising strategy for treating COPD.

Sorafenib attenuates liver fibrosis by triggering hepatic stellate cell ferroptosis via HIF-1α/SLC7A11 pathway

OBJECTIVES

Evidences demonstrate that sorafenib alleviates liver fibrosis via inhibiting HSC activation and ECM accumulation. The underlying mechanism remains unclear. Ferroptosis, a novel programmed cell death, regulates diverse physiological/pathological processes. In this study, we aim to investigate the functional role of HSC ferroptosis in the anti-fibrotic effect of sorafenib.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effects of sorafenib on HSC ferroptosis and ECM expression were assessed in mouse model of liver fibrosis induced by CCl4 . In vitro, Fer-1 and DFO were used to block ferroptosis and then explored the anti-fibrotic effect of sorafenib by detecting α-SMA, COL1α1 and fibronectin proteins. Finally, HIF-1α siRNA, plasmid and stabilizers were applied to assess related signalling pathway.

RESULTS

Sorafenib attenuated liver injury and ECM accumulation in CCl4 -induced fibrotic livers, accompanied by reduction of SLC7A11 and GPX4 proteins. In sorafenib-treated HSC-T6 cells, ferroptotic events (depletion of SLC7A11, GPX4 and GSH; accumulation iron, ROS and MDA) were discovered. Intriguingly, these ferroptotic events were not appeared in hepatocytes or macrophages. Sorafenib-elicited HSC ferroptosis and ECM reduction were abrogated by Fer-1 and DFO. Additionally, both HIF-1α and SLC7A11 proteins were reduced in sorafenib-treated HSC-T6 cells. SLC7A11 was positively regulated by HIF-1α, inactivation of HIF-1α/SLC7A11 pathway was required for sorafenib-induced HSC ferroptosis, and elevation of HIF-1α could inhibit ferroptosis, ultimately limited the anti-fibrotic effect.

CONCLUSIONS

Sorafenib triggers HSC ferroptosis via HIF-1α/SLC7A11 signalling, which in turn attenuates liver injury and fibrosis.

Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate-Enhanced Calvarial Regeneration by Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells on a Hydroxyapatite/Gelatin Scaffold

Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) plays a significant role in inducing new bone formation by mediating various signal pathways. However, cAMP, combined with biomaterials, is rarely investigated to reconstruct calvarial defects. In this study, cAMP was loaded into a hydroxyapatite (HA)/gelatin (Gel) construct and implanted into critical skull defects in rats to evaluate the potential for enhancing skull regeneration. The physiochemical characteristics, the biocompatibility of Gel and HA/Gel scaffolds, and the regenerated bone tissue were assessed. The resulting HA/Gel scaffolds possessed a 3D interconnected porous structure with extensively distributed HA crystals and favorable physiochemical properties. Rat bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (rBMSCs) within the HA/Gel scaffold showed greater biocompatibility. Compared with the Gel and HA/Gel groups, the cAMP-HA/Gel group revealed the highest bone density, more mature mineralized tissue, and more favorable integration between the new bone and inherent bone as analyzed by cone beam computed tomography and hematoxylin & eosin and Masson staining, respectively. Collectively, our study verified HA/Gel scaffolds as a prospective biomimetic treatment with biocompatibility and the therapeutic potential of cAMP in promoting new bone growth of a skull, which indicates its promise as a growth factor for bone tissue engineering.

Orai-vascular endothelial-cadherin signaling complex regulates high-glucose exposure-induced increased permeability of mouse aortic endothelial cells

INTRODUCTION

Diabetes-associated endothelial barrier function impairment might be linked to disturbances in Ca²⁺ homeostasis. To study the role and molecular mechanism of Orais-vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin signaling complex and its downstream signaling pathway in diabetic endothelial injury using mouse aortic endothelial cells (MAECs).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The activity of store-operated Ca²⁺ entry (SOCE) was detected by calcium imaging after 7 days of high-glucose (HG) or normal-glucose (NG) exposure, the expression levels of Orais after HG treatment was detected by western blot analysis. The effect of HG exposure on the expression of phosphorylated (p)-VE-cadherin and VE-cadherin on cell membrane was observed by immunofluorescence assay. HG-induced transendothelial electrical resistance was examined in vitro after MAECs were cultured in HG medium. FD-20 permeability was tested in monolayer aortic endothelial cells through transwell permeability assay. The interactions between Orais and VE-cadherin were detected by co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence technologies. Immunohistochemical experiment was used to detect the expression changes of Orais, VE-cadherin and p-VE-cadherin in aortic endothelium of mice with diabetes.

RESULTS

(1) The expression levels of Orais and activity of SOCE were significantly increased in MAECs cultured in HG for 7 days. (2) In MAECs cultured in HG for 7 days, the ratio of p-VE-cadherin to VE-cadherin expressed on the cell membrane and the FD-20 permeability in monolayer endothelial cells increased, indicating that intercellular permeability increased. (3) Orais and VE-cadherin can interact and enhance the interaction ratio through HG stimulation. (4) In MAECs cultured with HG, the SOCE activator ATP enhanced the expression level of p-VE-cadherin, and the SOCE inhibitor BTP2 decreased the expression level of p-VE-cadherin. (5) Significantly increased expression of p-VE-cadherin and Orais in the aortic endothelium of mice with diabetes.

CONCLUSION

HG exposure stimulated increased expression of Orais in endothelial cells, and increased VE-cadherin phosphorylation through Orais-VE-cadherin complex and a series of downstream signaling pathways, resulting in disruption of endothelial cell junctions and initiation of atherosclerosis.

Preparation of ashless cellulose paper standards for rapid determination of multi-element concentrations in airborne fine particulate matter using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

In this study, we developed ashless cellulose filter papers as calibration standards in laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) to rapidly determine multi-element concentrations in airborne fine particulate matter (PM2.5). To achieve this, the papers were treated by immersion in standard solutions, followed by evaporation of the solutions. The homogeneity of the paper standards was studied, and the results demonstrated that the elements were homogeneously distributed at the paper centers with slight fluctuations (i.e., relative standard derivation ≦ 8%). The instrument signal drift and instability were compensated using a pseudo internal standard (197Au). The limits of detection established for LA-ICP-MS were obtained by the ablation of 11 lines on the procedural blank filter paper containing 0.5% HNO3, with values ranging from 0.01 (Sr) to 0.49 μg g-1 (Fe). The accuracy of the LA-ICP-MS determinations was validated using certified reference materials (CRMs) and analyzed using six line scans. The results showed acceptable analytical errors (<13%). Thus, our method was applied to analyze actual PM2.5 samples. Moreover, the sources of PM2.5 in Hangzhou were also investigated. Additionally, this method has considerable potential for multi-element analysis in other airborne dusts.

Intraperitoneal pyrophosphate treatment reduces renal calcifications in Npt2a null mice

Mutations in the proximal tubular sodium-dependent phosphate co-transporters NPT2a and NPT2c have been reported in patients with renal stone disease and nephrocalcinosis, however the relative contribution of genotype, dietary calcium and phosphate, and modifiers of mineralization such as pyrophosphate (PPi) to the formation of renal mineral deposits is unclear. In the present study, we used Npt2a^-/- mice to model the renal calcifications observed in these disorders. We observed elevated urinary excretion of PPi in Npt2a^-/- mice when compared to WT mice. Presence of two hypomorphic Extracellular nucleotide pyrophosphatase phosphodiesterase 1 (Enpp1^asj/asj) alleles decreased urine PPi and worsened renal calcifications in Npt2a^-/- mice. These studies suggest that PPi is a thus far unrecognized factor protecting Npt2a^-/- mice from the development of renal mineral deposits. Consistent with this conclusion, we next showed that renal calcifications in these mice can be reduced by intraperitoneal administration of sodium pyrophosphate. If confirmed in humans, urine PPi could therefore be of interest for developing new strategies to prevent the nephrocalcinosis and nephrolithiasis seen in phosphaturic disorders.

Response of Npt2a knockout mice to dietary calcium and phosphorus

Mutations in the renal sodium-dependent phosphate co-transporters NPT2a and NPT2c have been reported in patients with renal stone disease and nephrocalcinosis, but the relative contribution of genotype, dietary calcium and phosphate to the formation of renal mineral deposits is unclear. We previously reported that renal calcium phosphate deposits persist and/or reappear in older Npt2a-/- mice supplemented with phosphate despite resolution of hypercalciuria while no deposits are seen in wild-type (WT) mice on the same diet. Addition of calcium to their diets further increased calcium phosphate deposits in Npt2a-/-, but not WT mice. The response of PTH to dietary phosphate of Npt2a-/- was blunted when compared to WT mice and the response of the urinary calcium x phosphorus product to the addition of calcium and phosphate to the diet of Npt2a-/- was increased. These finding suggests that Npt2a-/- mice respond differently to dietary phosphate when compared to WT mice. Further evaluation in the Npt2a-/- cohort on different diets suggests that urinary calcium excretion, plasma phosphate and FGF23 levels appear to be positively correlated to renal mineral deposit formation while urine phosphate levels and the urine anion gap, an indirect measure of ammonia excretion, appear to be inversely correlated. Our observations in Npt2a-/- mice, if confirmed in humans, may be relevant for the optimization of existing and the development of novel therapies to prevent nephrolithiasis and nephrocalcinosis in human carriers of NPT2a and NPT2c mutations.