Measurements of All-Particle Energy Spectrum and Mean Logarithmic Mass of Cosmic Rays from 0.3 to 30 PeV with LHAASO-KM2A

We present the measurements of all-particle energy spectrum and mean logarithmic mass of cosmic rays in the energy range of 0.3-30 PeV using data collected from LHAASO-KM2A between September 2021 and December 2022, which is based on a nearly composition-independent energy reconstruction method, achieving unprecedented accuracy. Our analysis reveals the position of the knee at 3.67±0.05±0.15  PeV. Below the knee, the spectral index is found to be -2.7413±0.0004±0.0050, while above the knee, it is -3.128±0.005±0.027, with the sharpness of the transition measured with a statistical error of 2%. The mean logarithmic mass of cosmic rays is almost heavier than helium in the whole measured energy range. It decreases from 1.7 at 0.3 PeV to 1.3 at 3 PeV, representing a 24% decline following a power law with an index of -0.1200±0.0003±0.0341. This is equivalent to an increase in abundance of light components. Above the knee, the mean logarithmic mass exhibits a power law trend towards heavier components, which is reversal to the behavior observed in the all-particle energy spectrum. Additionally, the knee position and the change in power-law index are approximately the same. These findings suggest that the knee observed in the all-particle spectrum corresponds to the knee of the light component, rather than the medium-heavy components.

A novel role for microtubule affinity-regulating kinases in neuropathic pain

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Neuropathic pain affects millions of patients, but there are currently few viable therapeutic options available. Microtubule affinity-regulating kinases (MARKs) regulate the dynamics of microtubules and participate in synaptic remodelling. It is unclear whether these changes are involved in the central sensitization of neuropathic pain. This study examined the role of MARK1 or MARK2 in regulating neurosynaptic plasticity induced by neuropathic pain.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

A rat spinal nerve ligation (SNL) model was established to induce neuropathic pain. The role of MARKs in nociceptive regulation was assessed by genetically knocking down MARK1 or MARK2 in amygdala and systemic administration of PCC0105003, a novel small molecule MARK inhibitor. Cognitive function, anxiety-like behaviours and motor coordination capability were also examined in SNL rats. Synaptic remodelling-associated signalling changes were detected with electrophysiological recording, Golgi-Cox staining, western blotting and qRT-PCR.

KEY RESULTS

MARK1 and MARK2 expression levels in amygdala and spinal dorsal horn were elevated in SNL rats. MARK1 or MARK2 knockdown in amygdala and PCC0105003 treatment partially attenuated pain-like behaviours along with improving cognitive deficit, anxiogenic-like behaviours and motor coordination in SNL rats. Inhibition of MARKs signalling reversed synaptic plasticity at the functional and structural levels by suppressing NR2B/GluR1 and EB3/Drebrin signalling pathways both in amygdala and spinal dorsal horn.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

These results suggest that MARKs-mediated synaptic remodelling plays a key role in the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain and that pharmacological inhibitors of MARKs such as PCC0105003 could represent a novel therapeutic strategy for the management of neuropathic pain.

Carbon emission reduction effect of renewable energy technology innovation: a nonlinear investigation from China's city level

There has always been controversy over how renewable energy technologies can play a role in reducing carbon emissions. Based on the energy patent data and the economic data of 244 prefecture-level cities from 2007 to 2017 in China, we explore the carbon reduction effect of renewable energy technology and its mechanism from the perspective of energy production, conservation, and management. The two-way fixed effect, instrumental variable, spatial Durbin, and mediation effect models are employed to explore empirical results. We found that (1) the impact of renewable energy technologies on carbon emissions is nonlinear, with an inverted U shape. However, this inverted U-shaped relationship only exists locally in cities and there are uncertainties in adjacent cities, which indicates that cross-regional cooperation in renewable energy technology needs to be improved. (2) The mechanism analysis shows that industrial agglomeration and energy consumption scale are the channels that renewable energy technologies affect carbon emissions. Thus, the implicit carbon emissions generated by industrial agglomeration and the failure to green upgrade energy consumption are the main reasons for the inverted U-shaped relationship. (3) The carbon reduction effect of renewable energy technologies of conservation type takes effect first, and renewable energy technologies of production type do not reduce carbon emissions in non-eastern cities, which means that non-eastern cities are likely to become pollution havens. This study provides evidence for renewable energy technologies to achieve efficient carbon emission reduction and cross-regional technical cooperation.

Discovery of extracellular vesicle-delivered miR-185-5p in the plasma of patients as an indicator for advanced adenoma and colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

We aimed to evaluate whether extracellular vesicles (EV)-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) can be used as biomarkers for advanced adenoma (AA) and colorectal cancer (CRC).

METHODS

We detected the changes in the plasma EV-delivered miRNA profiles in healthy donor (HD), AA patient, and I-II stage CRC patient groups using miRNA deep sequencing assay. We performed the TaqMan miRNA assay using 173 plasma samples (two independent cohorts) from HDs, AA patients, and CRC patients to identify the candidate miRNA(s). The accuracy of candidate miRNA(s) in diagnosing AA and CRC was determined using the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) values. Logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association of candidate miRNA(s) as an independent factor for the diagnosis of AA and CRC. The role of candidate miRNA(s) in the malignant progression of CRC was explored using functional assays.

RESULTS

We screened and identified four prospective EV-delivered miRNAs, including miR-185-5p, which were significantly upregulated or downregulated in AA vs. HD and CRC vs. AA groups. In two independent cohorts, miR-185-5p was the best potential biomarker with the AUCs of 0.737 (Cohort I) and 0.720 (Cohort II) for AA vs. HD diagnosis, 0.887 (Cohort I) and 0.803 (Cohort II) for CRC vs. HD diagnosis, and 0.700 (Cohort I) and 0.631 (Cohort II) for CRC vs. AA diagnosis. Finally, we demonstrated that the upregulated expression of miR-185-5p promoted the malignant progression of CRC.

CONCLUSION

EV-delivered miR-185-5p in the plasma of patients is a promising diagnostic biomarker for colorectal AA and CRC. Trial registration The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, China (Ethics No. 2022SL005, Registration No. of China Clinical Trial Registration Center: ChiCTR220061592).

The adenosine analog prodrug ATV006 is orally bioavailable and has preclinical efficacy against parental SARS-CoV-2 and variants

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus driving the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, continues to rapidly evolve. Due to the limited efficacy of vaccination in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission and continuous emergence of variants of concern (VOC), orally bioavailable and broadly efficacious antiviral drugs are urgently needed. Previously we showed that the parent nucleoside of remdesivir, GS-441524, possesses potent anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity. Herein, we report that esterification of the 5′-hydroxyl moieties of GS-441524 markedly improved antiviral potency. This 5′-hydroxyl-isobutyryl prodrug, ATV006, demonstrated excellent oral bioavailability in rats and cynomolgus monkeys and exhibited potent antiviral efficacy against different SARS-CoV-2 VOCs in vitro and in three mouse models. Oral administration of ATV006 reduced viral loads and alleviated lung damage when administered prophylactically and therapeutically to K18-hACE2 mice challenged with the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2. These data indicate that ATV006 represents a promising oral antiviral drug candidate for SARS-CoV-2.

Aberrant Volume-Wise and Voxel-Wise Concordance Among Dynamic Intrinsic Brain Activity Indices in Parkinson’s Disease: A Resting-State fMRI Study

Researches using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) have applied different regional measurements to study the intrinsic brain activity (IBA) of patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Most previous studies have only examined the static characteristics of IBA in patients with PD, neglecting the dynamic features. We sought to explore the concordance between the dynamics of different rs-fMRI regional indices. This study included 31 healthy controls (HCs) and 57 PD patients to calculate the volume-wise (across voxels) and voxel-wise (across periods) concordance using a sliding time window approach. This allowed us to compare the concordance of dynamic alterations in frequently used metrics such as degree centrality (DC), global signal connectivity (GSC), voxel-mirrored heterotopic connectivity (VMHC), the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF), and regional homogeneity (ReHo). We analyzed the changes of concordance indices in the PD patients and investigated the relationship between aberrant concordance values and clinical/neuropsychological assessments in the PD patients. We found that, compared with the HCs, the PD patients had lower volume concordance in the whole brain and lower voxel-wise concordance in the posterior cerebellar lobe, cerebellar tonsils, superior temporal gyrus, and supplementary motor region. We also found negative correlations between these concordance alterations and patients’ age. The exploratory results contribute to a better understanding of IBA alterations and pathophysiological mechanisms in PD.

Cognitive magnetic resonance imaging-ultrasound fusion transperineal targeted biopsy combined with randomized biopsy in detection of prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common cancers among men. Various strategies for targeted biopsy based on multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mp-MRI) have emerged, which may improve the accuracy of detecting clinically significant PCa in recent years.

AIM

To investigate the diagnostic efficiency of a template for cognitive MRI-ultrasound fusion transperineal targeted plus randomized biopsy in detecting PCa.

METHODS

Data from patients with an increasing prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level but less than 20 ng/mL and at least one lesion suspicious for PCa on MRI from December 2015 to June 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients underwent cognitive fusion transperineal template-guided targeted biopsy followed by randomized biopsy outside the targeted area. A total of 127 patients with complete data were included in the final analysis. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted, and a two-sided P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

PCa was detected in 66 of 127 patients, and 56 cases presented clinically significant PCa. Cognitive fusion targeted biopsy alone detected 59/127 cases of PCa, specifically 52/59 cases with clinically significant PCa and 7/59 cases with clinically insignificant PCa. A randomized biopsy detected seven cases of PCa negative on targeted biopsy, and four cases had clinically significant PCa. PSA density (OR: 1.008, 95%CI: 1.003-1.012, P = 0.001; OR: 1.006, 95%CI: 1.002-1.010, P = 0.004) and Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) scores (both P < 0.001) were independently associated with the results of cognitive fusion targeted biopsy combined with randomized biopsy and targeted biopsy alone.

CONCLUSION

This single-centered study proposed a feasible template for cognitive MRI-ultrasound fusion transperineal targeted plus randomized biopsy. Patients with higher PSAD and PI-RADS scores were more likely to be diagnosed with PCa.

Natural deep eutectic solvents as green and biocompatible reaction medium for carbonic anhydrase catalysis

Easy deactivation of free enzymes under non-native condition has become a stumbling block to the industrial application of biocatalysis. Natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES) has been exploited as a novel reaction medium for improving enzyme stability. The present work focused on preserving and enhancing the activity of carbonic anhydrase (CA) in a more economical and biocompatible NADES system. We synthesized six choline chloride/betaine-based NADES and analyzed the effects of compositions and concentrations of NADES on their physicochemical properties. The Bet-Gly (1: 2) NADES (55%) was proved to be more suitable as reaction medium for CA by analyzing enzyme activity in the presence of NADES. The enhancement in the stability of CA was found to be as a result of a three-dimensional hydrogen bonding network, rather than the individual or the synergistic effect of betaine and glyceride. The conformational change of CA to become more compact was confirmed both by fluorescence spectrum analysis and circular dichroism analysis. It is worth mentioning that a remarkable thermal stability was maintained when CA was incubated at temperature below 60 °C, and about 96% of activity was still restored in 55% NADES at 60 °C for 12 h.

LncRNA PTTG3P induced aberrant glycosylated IgA1 production and B cell growth in IgA nephropathy

Growing evidences suggested that lncRNAs played functional role in several cell functions such as cell growth, invasion, migration, metabolize, apoptosis, and differentiation. However, roles of lncRNA in the development and progression of IgAN remain unknown. In this reference, we indicated that PTTG3P level was overexpressed in IgAN samples compared to healthy subject. PTTG3P expression was also higher in urinary of IgAN cases than in urinary of healthy control. Furthermore, the urinary expression of PTTG3P was correlated with PTTG3P expression in intra-renal of IgAN cases. PTTG3P overexpression induced B cell growth and enhanced cyclin D1 and ki-67 expression. Overexpression of PTTG3P induced IL-1β and IL-8 production. miR-383 level was decreased in IgAN samples compared to healthy subject. In addition, miR-383 expression was also lower in urinary of IgAN cases than in urinary of healthy control. Elevated miR-383 expression decreased luciferase intensity regulated with PTTG3P, while overexpression of miR-383 had no effect on luciferase intensity of the mutant PTTG3P. PTTG3P overexpression suppressed miR-383 expression in B cells. Ectopic miR-383 expression suppressed B cell growth and IL-1β and IL-8 production. Finally, we showed that overexpression of PTTG3P promoted B cell growth and IL-1β and IL-8 production via regulating miR-383. There results proved that PTTG3P played crucial role in progression of IgAN.

Prediction of in-hospital recurrence and false-negative results in patients with COVID-19 by red blood cell values on admission

The clinical characteristics and risk factors of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) with re-positive or false-negative test results have so far remained to be determined. The present study provides a cross-sectional observational study on 134 hospitalized patients selected from Huoshenshan Hospital (Wuhan, China) using cluster sampling. A total of 68 patients had reduced red blood cell (RBC) counts, 55 a decrease in the hemoglobin concentration (HBC) and 73 a decline in hematocrit (HCT). The false-negative rate of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA detection in pharyngeal swab specimens was 18.7%. The absolute lymphocyte count (ALC), RBC, HBC and HCT levels in false-negative patients were significantly higher than those in patients who tested positive for viral nucleic acids. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that RBC [odds ratio (OR)=0.43, 95% CI: 0.18-0.99], HBC (OR=0.97, 95% CI: 0.94-0.99) and ALC (OR=0.43, 95% CI: 0.20-0.91) were the factors influencing the negative testing results for viral nucleic acid. The rate of re-positive patients was 16.4%. The white blood cell, RBC, HBC and HCT values in re-positive patients were lower than those in non-re-positive patients. The median (interquartile range) values for RBC, HBC and HCT of male re-positive patients were 3.95 (3.37, 4.2) x10¹²/l, 123 (103, 133) g/l and 36.6 (31.1, 39.2)%, respectively, while the RBC, HBC and HCT of female re-positive patients were 3.54 (3.13, 3.74) x10¹²/l, 115 (102, 118) g/l and 34.2 (28.5, 34.9)%, respectively. It was determined that RBC, HBC and HCT values had moderate accuracy in predicting SARS-CoV-2 recurrence in patients with COVID-19 using receiver operating curve analysis. The present study suggested that RBC may have an important role in the pathogenesis of COVID-19.

Motor Symptom Lateralization Influences Cortico-Striatal Functional Connectivity in Parkinson's Disease

Objective: The striatum is unevenly impaired bilaterally in Parkinson's disease (PD). Because the striatum plays a key role in cortico-striatal circuits, we assume that lateralization affects cortico-striatal functional connectivity in PD. The present study sought to evaluate the effect of lateralization on various cortico-striatal circuits through resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Methods: Thirty left-onset Parkinson's disease (LPD) patients, 27 right-onset Parkinson's disease (RPD) patients, and 32 normal controls with satisfactory data were recruited. Their demographic, clinical, and neuropsychological information was collected. Resting-state fMRI was performed, and functional connectivity changes of seven subdivisions of the striatum were explored in the two PD groups. In addition, the associations between altered functional connectivity and various clinical and neuropsychological characteristics were analyzed by Pearson's or Spearman's correlation. Results: Directly comparing the LPD and RPD patients demonstrated that the LPD patients had lower FC between the left dorsal rostral putamen and the left orbitofrontal cortex than the RPD patients. In addition, the LPD patients showed aberrant functional connectivity involving several striatal subdivisions in the right hemisphere. The right dorsal caudate, ventral rostral putamen, and superior ventral striatum had decreased functional connectivity with the cerebellum and parietal and occipital lobes relative to the normal control group. The comparison between RPD patients and the controls did not obtain significant difference in functional connectivity. The functional connectivity between the left dorsal rostral putamen and the left orbitofrontal cortex was associated with contralateral motor symptom severity in PD patients. Conclusions: Our findings provide new insights into the distinct characteristics of cortico-striatal circuits in LPD and RPD patients. Lateralization of motor symptoms is associated with lateralized striatal functional connectivity.

[Current status and development trend of vascular compressive therapy]

As a non-invasive and safe physical therapy modality, compressive therapy plays an indispensable role in the treatment of vascular diseases and wounds. However, the concept of compressive therapy has not been widely adopted at present. And there are also problems such as non-standard treatment methods and inconsistent standards of pressure devices. Therefore, it is urgent to improve the standard system of compressive therapy, improve the level of diagnosis and treatment of related diseases, and promote the further development of compressive therapy.

[Current status of registered drug and vaccine pediatric clinical trials in China]

Objective: To evaluate the current status of the registered pediatric drug or vaccine clinical trials in China for the purpose of providing a reference for the development of pediatric clinical trials in China. Methods: We collected the data about registered pediatric clinical trials that were conducted from September 6, 2013(Mandatory registration start date) to September 6, 2019 (Cut-off date) at Chinadrugtrials.org.cn platform. The survey items included trial name and number, drug classification, sponsor's information, current trial status, completion status, etc. The clinical trials were categorized by drug group (includes chemical medicine, traditional Chinese medicine and natural medicine, biological products) and by vaccine group. Results: During the six years 349 pediatric clinical trials were registered on the platform, including 162 pediatric drug trials and 187 vaccine trials. The numbers of chemical drugs and biological products registered in 2018 were 23 and 11, respectively, the highest in the history. The number of pediatric clinical trials of traditional Chinese medicine and natural medicine was 11 in 2014, but from 2015 to 2018 only 2 to 4 trials were registered each year. The overall completion rates of the registered drug and vaccine clinical trials were 22.8% (37/162) and 41.7%(78/187), respectively. Only 42 international multicenter pediatric clinical trial projects were registered on the platform. The numbers of drug and vaccine phase Ⅰ clinical trials were 4 and 46, respectively. Thirty-six pediatric endocrine system agent clinical trials were carried out, with the largest number of all the drug categories registered on the platform. Conclusions: In recent years the number of registered pediatric drug and vaccine clinical trials increased in China. However, the number is still very limited. It is urgent to further promote the development of pediatric clinical trials.

Combinatory transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells with flavonoid small molecule in acellular nerve graft promotes sciatic nerve regeneration

Previous animal studies have demonstrated that the flavonoid small-molecule TrkB agonist, 7, 8-dihydroxyflavone (DHF), promotes axon regeneration in transected peripheral nerves. In the present study, we investigated the combined effects of 7, 8-DHF treatment and bone marrow-derived stem/stromal cells (BMSCs) engraftment into acellular nerve allografts (ANAs) and explore relevant mechanisms that may be involved. Our results show that TrkB and downstream ERK1/2 phosphorylation are increased upon 7, 8-DHF treatment compared to the negative control group. Also, 7, 8-DHF promotes proliferation, survival, and Schwann-like cell differentiation of BMSCs in vitro. While selective ERK1/2 inhibitor U0126 suppressed the effect of upregulation of ERK1/2 phosphorylation and decreased cell proliferation, survival, and Schwann-like cell differentiation partially induced by 7, 8-DHF. In vivo, 7, 8-DHF promotes survival of transplanted BMSCs and upregulates axonal growth and myelination in regenerating ANAs. 7, 8-DHF+BMSCs also improved motor endplate density of target musculature. These benefits were associated with increased motor functional recovery. 7, 8-DHF+BMSCs significantly upregulated TrkB and ERK1/2 phosphorylation expression in regenerating ANA, and increased TrkB expression in the lumbar spinal cord. The mechanism of 7, 8-DHF action may be related to its ability to upregulate TrkB signaling, and downstream activation of survival signaling molecules ERK1/2 in the regenerating ANAs and spinal cord and improved survival of transplanted BMSCs. This study provides novel foundational data connecting the benefits of 7, 8-DHF treatment in neural injury and repair to BMSCs biology and function and demonstrates a potential combination approach for the treatment of injured peripheral nerve via nerve graft transplant.

Biological Characteristics and Genetic Diversity of Phomopsis asparagi, Causal Agent of Asparagus Stem Blight

Asparagus stem blight is a regional disease. In the present study, we compared strains of Phomopsis asparagi from six different provinces to determine their biological characteristics and genetic diversity, differences in the pycnidium and conidium production, pathogenicity, and growth rate. Considerable differences were established in the pycnidium and conidium production among the P. asparagi strains from the six studied provinces. The largest pycnidium and conidium production had the strains from Fujian, followed by those from Hainan. The virulence of P. asparagi strains was significantly different but without a correlation with the geographical source of the strain. FJ2 had the highest virulence, followed by HN2, SD4, and SD5, whereas SD5 had the lowest virulence. The colony diameter and dry weight of the strains of asparagus stem blight fungus from the six provinces were substantially different. The colonies of HN1-5 had the largest diameters, whereas those of XT1-5, LT1-3, FJ1-5, and SX6 had smaller diameters. Four primers with good repeatability and strong specificity were selected from 100 intersimple sequence repeat (ISSR) primers. ISSR-PCR amplification was performed on 36 strains of asparagus stem blight fungus, and a large number of repeatable DNA fingerprints were obtained. Most of the amplified fragments were within 300 to 500 bp. In all, 69 total points, 64 multiple points, and 92.75% polymorphism points were established. The number of ISSR gene sites detected by four primers ranged from 14 to 20, with an average of 16 multiple sites. The copolymerization was divided into three groups: XT1-5, LT1-3, and FJ1-5, which were clustered into the first group; SD1-6, SX1-6, and HB1-6, clustered into the second group; and HN1-5 in the third group. The results of the cluster analysis revealed that the strains of the neighboring provinces had a nearer phylogenetic relationship than that between distant ones. Therefore, the system evolution of P. asparagi is related to the geographical distribution of its strains.

[Clinical value of oral repair membrane and β-tricalcium phosphate in the treatment of the postoperative bone defect of jaw cyst]

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the clinical effect of oral repair membrane and β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) on the treatment of jaw cyst.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed on 81 cases of jaw cysts, and clinical data were collected for the comparison of traditional surgical curettage (group A, 27 cases), biofilm covering bone wounds after curettage (group B, 27 cases), and β-TCP filling combined with biofilm covering.

RESULTS

No recurrence occurred in 81 patients, and no significant difference in preoperative CT value among the three groups (P<0.05). Follow-up CT reexamination 3, 6, and 12 months after operation showed significant differences among the three groups of CT values (P<0.05). Group C was better than Group B or Group A (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In traditional jaw cyst curettage, the application of biofilm exhibited good osteogenesis effect, and the combined application of β-TCP and biofilm exerted a better effect.

The Ubiquitin E3 Ligase Parkin Inhibits Innate Antiviral Immunity Through K48-Linked Polyubiquitination of RIG-I and MDA5

Innate immunity is the first-line defense against antiviral or antimicrobial infection. RIG-I and MDA5, which mediate the recognition of pathogen-derived nucleic acids, are essential for production of type I interferons (IFN). Here, we identified mitochondrion depolarization inducer carbonyl cyanide 3-chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP) inhibited the response and antiviral activity of type I IFN during viral infection. Furthermore, we found that the PTEN-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1) and the E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase Parkin mediated mitophagy, thus negatively regulating the activation of RIG-I and MDA5. Parkin directly interacted with and catalyzed the K48-linked polyubiquitination and subsequent degradation of RIG-I and MDA5. Thus, we demonstrate that Parkin limits RLR-triggered innate immunity activation, suggesting Parkin as a potential therapeutic target for the control of viral infection.

Abnormal Spontaneous Brain Activity in Left-Onset Parkinson Disease: A Resting-State Functional MRI Study

Objective: Motor asymmetry is characteristic in Parkinson disease (PD). This phenomenon is originated from uneven degeneration of bilateral substantia nigra. However, this asymmetry may not restrict to substantia nigra or striatum. We aimed to determine the effect of asymmetry on spontaneous brain activity across the whole brain. Methods: We consecutively recruited 71 patients with PD, as well as 35 healthy controls, and collected relevant demographic, clinical, and neuropsychological information. The PD patients were divided into two groups according to the side of motor symptom onset. All the participants underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging, and spontaneous brain activity was assessed using amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF). The associations between areas showing significant group differences and various clinical and neuropsychological measures were analyzed. Results: Finally, the data of 30 PD patients with left-onset (LPD), 27 PD patients with right-onset (RPD), and 32 healthy controls were obtained. The three groups had similar age and gender ratios. Our results demonstrated that LPD patients had increased ALFF in the left inferior temporal gyrus and decreased ALFF in bilateral thalamus and cerebellum anterior lobes than the control group. The value of ALFF of the left inferior temporal gyrus was correlated with motor function, and ALFF value of the thalamus was associated with cognition. Comparisons between LPD and RPD patients and between RPD patients and the controls did not yield significant difference. Conclusions: The present study provides new insights into the distinct characteristics of spontaneous brain activity in LPD, which may be associated with motor and cognitive function.

Automated detection and quantification of COVID-19 pneumonia: CT imaging analysis by a deep learning-based software

BACKGROUND

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an emerging worldwide threat to public health. While chest computed tomography (CT) plays an indispensable role in its diagnosis, the quantification and localization of lesions cannot be accurately assessed manually. We employed deep learning-based software to aid in detection, localization and quantification of COVID-19 pneumonia.

METHODS

A total of 2460 RT-PCR tested SARS-CoV-2-positive patients (1250 men and 1210 women; mean age, 57.7 ± 14.0 years (age range, 11-93 years) were retrospectively identified from Huoshenshan Hospital in Wuhan from February 11 to March 16, 2020. Basic clinical characteristics were reviewed. The uAI Intelligent Assistant Analysis System was used to assess the CT scans.

RESULTS

CT scans of 2215 patients (90%) showed multiple lesions of which 36 (1%) and 50 patients (2%) had left and right lung infections, respectively (> 50% of each affected lung's volume), while 27 (1%) had total lung infection (> 50% of the total volume of both lungs). Overall, 298 (12%), 778 (32%) and 1300 (53%) patients exhibited pure ground glass opacities (GGOs), GGOs with sub-solid lesions and GGOs with both sub-solid and solid lesions, respectively. Moreover, 2305 (94%) and 71 (3%) patients presented primarily with GGOs and sub-solid lesions, respectively. Elderly patients (≥ 60 years) were more likely to exhibit sub-solid lesions. The generalized linear mixed model showed that the dorsal segment of the right lower lobe was the favoured site of COVID-19 pneumonia.

CONCLUSION

Chest CT combined with analysis by the uAI Intelligent Assistant Analysis System can accurately evaluate pneumonia in COVID-19 patients.

The Relationship between Side of Onset and Cerebral Regional Homogeneity in Parkinson's Disease: A Resting-State fMRI Study

OBJECTIVE

Motor symptoms are usually asymmetric in Parkinson's disease (PD), and asymmetry in PD may involve widespread brain areas. We sought to evaluate the effect of asymmetry on the whole brain spontaneous activity using the measure regional homogeneity (ReHo) through resting-state functional MRI.

METHODS

We recruited 30 PD patients with left onset (LPD), 27 with right side (RPD), and 32 controls with satisfactory data. Their demographic, clinical, and neuropsychological information were obtained. Resting-state functional MRI was performed, and ReHo was used to determine the brain activity. ANCOVA was utilized to analyze between-group differences in ReHo and the associations between abnormal ReHo, and various clinical and neuropsychological variables were explored by Spearman's correlation.

RESULTS

LPD patients had higher ReHo in the right temporal pole than the controls. RPD patients had increased ReHo in the right temporal pole and decreased ReHo in the primary motor cortex and premotor area, compared with the controls. Directly comparing LPD and RPD patients did not show a significant difference in ReHo. ReHo of the right temporal pole was significantly correlated with depression and anxiety in RPD patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Both LPD and RPD have increased brain activity synchronization in the right temporal pole, and only RPD has decreased brain activity synchronization in the right frontal motor areas. The changed brain activity in the right temporal pole may play a compensatory role for depression and anxiety in PD, and the altered cerebral function in the right frontal motor area in RPD may represent the reorganization of the motor system in RPD.

The impact of cigarette smoking in predicting stroke using CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc schemas

Objective

To determine the impact of smoking status in the prediction of stroke using CHADS₂ and CHA₂DS₂-VASc schemes.

Methods

Five hundred twenty-eight consecutive patients with arrhythmic symptoms and without any documented arrhythmia from Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, were followed up to determine the incidence of ischemic stroke, new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF), or all-cause mortality. Smoking status was classified into nonsmokers and smokers. The pairwise comparisons of C-statistics for outcomes were performed.

Results

During a median follow-up period of 6.2 years, 65 (12.3%) individuals developed ischemic stroke. Smokers experienced higher annual incidence of stroke, a new-onset AF, and all-cause death compare to nonsmokers, with corresponding hazard ratio (HR) of stroke, AF, and all-cause death being 2.51 (95% confidence intervals, CI 1.36als, CIse death bein 1.15a3.24), and 1.95 (95% CI 1.161.95 (95% CIath being 2.51 (95% confidence corr₂ and CHA₂DS₂-VASc for stroke were 0.60 (95% CI 0.51 for stp = 0.09) and 0.59 (95% CI 0.50 (95%, p = 0.15) respectively, whereas the C-statistics of CHADS₂ and CHA₂DS₂-VASc were 0.66 (95% CI 0.61 were 0p = 0.005), 0.75 (95% CI 0.7 CI 0.7p < 0.0001), respectively among nonsmokers. After incorporating smoking, both the CHADS₂-smoking and CHA₂DS₂-VASc-smoking achieved better C-statistics for new-onset ischemic stroke prediction superior to baseline score systems in male groups.

Conclusion

Cigarette smoking status has impact on stroke stratification using CHADS₂ and CHA₂DS₂-VASc scheme. The discrimination of the CHADS₂ and CHA₂DS₂-VASc scheme for stroke can be significantly improved if smoking status is additionally considered.

Radiomics of Multiparametric MRI to Predict Biochemical Recurrence of Localized Prostate Cancer After Radiation Therapy

Background: To identify multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mp-MRI)-based radiomics features as prognostic factors in patients with localized prostate cancer after radiotherapy.

Methods:From 2011 to 2016, a total of 91 consecutive patients with T1-4N0M0 prostate cancer were identified and divided into two cohorts for an adaptive boosting (Adaboost) model (training cohort: n = 73; test cohort: n = 18). All patients were treated with neoadjuvant endocrine therapy followed by radiotherapy. The optimal feature set, identified through an Inception-Resnet v2 network, consisted of a combination of T1, T2, and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) MR series. Through a Wilcoxon sign rank test, a total of 45 distinct signatures were extracted from 1,536 radiomics features and used in our Adaboost model.

Results:Among 91 patients, 29 (32%) were classified as biochemical recurrence (BCR) and 62 (68%) as non-BCR. Once trained, the model demonstrated a predictive classification accuracy of 50.0 and 86.1% respectively for BCR and non-BCR groups on our test samples. The overall classification accuracy of the test cohort was 74.1%. The highest classification accuracy was 77.8% between three-fold cross-validation. The areas under the curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) indices for the training and test cohorts were 0.99 and 0.73, respectively.

Conclusion:The potential of multiparametric MRI-based radiomics to predict the BCR of localized prostate cancer patients was demonstrated in this manuscript. This analysis provided additional prognostic factors based on routine MR images and holds the potential to contribute to precision medicine and inform treatment management.

Laminarin from Seaweed (Laminaria japonica) Inhibits Hepatocellular Carcinoma Through Upregulating Senescence Marker Protein-30

Objective: This study aimed at investigating the specific roles of laminarin from seaweed (Laminaria japonica) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its potential mechanisms related to senescence marker protein-30 (SMP-30).

Materials and Methods: Human HCC cell lines, including Bel-7404 and HepG2, were incubated with different concentrations of laminarin (0, 5, 15, 25, 35, and 45 mg/mL). The cell viability and apoptosis rates were detected by WST-8 cell proliferation assay and flow cytometry, respectively. Hepa 1–6 tumor-bearing mice were injected with different concentrations of laminarin (400, 800, and 1200 mg/kg·d), and tumor volume and weight were measured. The expression of SMP-30 was detected in laminarin-treated Bel-7404 and HepG2 HCC cells and LO2 normal liver cells by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blotting.

Results: The treatment with laminarin (48 h) significantly decreased the viability and increased the apoptosis rates of Bel-7404 and HepG2 cells in a dose-dependent manner. The injection of laminarin also significantly decreased the tumor volumes (beginning on the 10th day) and tumor weights (30 d post-injection) of mice in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, the treatment with laminarin (35 mg/mL for 48 h) significantly upregulated SMP-30 in Bel-7404 and HepG2 cells but not in LO2 cells.

Conclusion: Laminarin inhibited the proliferation of Bel-7404 and HepG2 cells and inhibited the growth of tumors in Hepa 1–6 tumor-bearing mice by upregulating SMP-30.

Chuanxiong (Rhizome of Ligusticum chuanxiong) Protects Ovariectomized Hyperlipidemic Rats from Bone Loss

Oxidative stress (OS) is the common mechanism for age-related diseases. The co-occurrence of osteoporosis (OP) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in postmenopausal women makes it warranted to find a holistic approach for treatment of multiple diseases or conditions. The rhizome of Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. (CX), which has high anti-oxidant properties and is widely used for CVD treatment in China, might be the potential candidate. In the present study, CX ethanol extract (CXE) was applied to H₂O₂ induced MG63 cells to study its effects and mechanisms on osteoblastogenesis against OS. CXE was then administered to six-month-old Sprague Dawley sham or ovariectomized (OVX) rats fed either a low saturated fat-sucrose (LFS) or a high fat-sucrose (HFS) diet for 12 weeks, to confirm its anti-osteoporotic effects. The results demonstrated that CXE directly improved proliferation and differentiation in vitro in an H₂O₂-induced osteoblast cell model by attenuating cellular reactive oxygen species levels and inhibiting osteoblast apoptosis via PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. CXE significantly improved bone properties as revealed by the increase in trabecular bone mineral density and decrease in trabecular separation at proximal metaphysis of the tibia (PT) in HFS-fed OVX rats but not in LFS-fed OVX rats. CXE ameliorated dyslipidemia, greatly reduced lipid deposition and malondialdehyde levels, improved activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase in the livers of HFS-fed OVX rats. In conclusion, CXE could favor osteoblastogenesis against OS. The ability of CXE to reduce bone loss in HFS-fed OVX rats was associated with its abilities to correct dyslipidemia, and reduce lipid deposition and OS levels.

Penta-acetyl geniposide induces apoptosis of fibroblast-like synoviocytes from adjuvant-induced arthritis rats in vitro, associated with inhibition of NF-κB activation

BACKGROUND

Approaches promoting fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) apoptosis are considered as a meaningful strategy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treatment. We have previously reported the anti-arthritic effect of penta-acetyl geniposide ((Ac)5GP, an active derivative of geniposide) on adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) rats in vivo. The present study aimed to investigate the pro-apoptotic effect of (Ac)5GP on AIA FLS in vitro and the underlying molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

Rat AIA was induced by complete Freund's adjuvant, and FLS were primary-cultured from synovial tissues. AIA FLS were treated with (Ac)5GP (50, 100 and 200 μM) for 48 h and cell proliferation and apoptosis were respectively examined. The involvement of apoptosis-related proteins (Bax, Bcl-2 and caspase 3) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway was checked.

RESULTS

(Ac)5GP inhibited the viability of AIA FLS and reduced the percentage of Ki67-positive cells in AIA FLS. Particularly, (Ac)5GP promoted AIA FLS apoptosis in vitro by inducing apoptotic nuclear morphology, facilitating DNA ladder formation and increasing percentages of both early and late apoptotic cells. (Ac)5GP treatment on AIA FLS decreased Bcl-2 protein level whereas increased the levels of Bax and caspase 3 proteins. Moreover, (Ac)5GP reduced the degradation and phosphorylation of IκBα, down-regulated NF-κB p65 protein level in nucleus and inhibited NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation.

CONCLUSIONS

(Ac)5GP had a potent pro-apoptotic effect on AIA FLS in vitro, which is associated with regulating apoptosis-related proteins and inhibiting NF-κB activation.

P200 family protein IFI204 negatively regulates type I interferon responses by targeting IRF7 in nucleus

Interferon-inducible p200 family protein IFI204 was reported to be involved in DNA sensing, and subsequently induces the production of type I interferons and proinflammatory mediators. However, its function in the regulation of antiviral innate immune signaling pathway remains unclear. Here we reported a novel role of IFI204 that specifically inhibits the IRF7-mediated type I interferons response during viral infection. IFI204 and other p200 family proteins are highly expressed in mouse hepatitis coronavirus-infected bone marrow-derived dendritic cells. The abundant IFI204 could significantly interact with IRF7 in nucleus by its HIN domain and prevent the binding of IRF7 with its corresponding promoter. Moreover, other p200 family proteins that possess HIN domain could also inhibit the IRF7-mediated type I interferons. These results reveal that, besides the positive regulation function in type I interferon response at the early stage of DNA virus infection, the interferon-inducible p200 family proteins such as IFI204 could also negatively regulate the IRF7-mediated type I interferon response after RNA virus infection to avoid unnecessary host damage from hyper-inflammatory responses.

The regulation of type I interferon signaling pathway is dynamic sequential processes and must be tightly regulated to keep balance between antiviral immune and hyper-inflammatory responses. The precise regulation mechanisms of the innate immune signaling pathway are still worth studying. Here, we found a novel role of the interferon-inducible p200 family protein IFI204 that specifically inhibits the IRF7-mediated type I interferon production by negative control of the transcriptional activity of IRF7 in the nucleus at the late stage of RNA virus infection. Previous studies showed that IFI204 is involved in DNA sensing during DNA virus infection to initiate antiviral immune responses. We demonstrate that IFI204 can inhibit IRF7-mediated activation of type I IFN responses induced by RNA virus infection, which is in contrast with its role in IRF3 activation in cGAS-STING DNA sensing pathway during DNA virus infection. Such negative regulation may help to avoid hyper-inflammatory responses induced by the over-activated IRF7-mediated type I interferons at late stage of the viral infection. Thus, the current study sheds light on the regulation roles of p200 family proteins and the accurate regulation system of type I interferons signaling pathway.

Understanding toward the Biophysical Interaction of Polymeric Proanthocyanidins (Persimmon Condensed Tannins) with Biomembranes: Relevance for Biological Effects

Persimmon condensed tannins (PT) are highly polymerized (mDP = 26) and highly galloylated (72%) proanthocyanidins. Its pleiotropic effects in oxidation resistance, neuroprotection, hypolipidemia, and cardio-protection both in vitro and in vivo were widely reported. Because large proanthocyanidins are unlikely to be absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, it is believed that the interaction of PT with biological membranes may play a crucial role in its biological activities. In the present study, the capacities of PT adsorbing to membrane, partitioning into membrane, and its influence on the membrane fluidity were investigated by fluorescence quenching, isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and fluorescence anisotropy measurements in a biomembrane-mimetic system composed of 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoylphosphatidylcholine (POPC), 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoylphosphatidylethanolamine (POPE), sphingomyelin (SPM), and cholesterol (CHOL). Besides, the effects of PT on the morphology and integrity of the cell membrane were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and fluorescence staining in the 3T3-L1 cell model. The results suggested that PT could affect cell membrane rafts domains, destroy the cell membrane morphology, and regulate cell membrane fluidity, which might contribute to its biological effects.

MicroRNA-30b regulates insulin sensitivity by targeting SERCA2b in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Insulin resistance is strongly associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, a chronic, obesity-related liver disease. Increased endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress plays an important role in the development of insulin resistance. In this study, we investigated the roles of miRNAs in regulating ER stress in the liver of rats with obesity.

METHODS

We used miRNA microarray to determine the miRNA expression profiles in the liver of rats fed with a high fat diet (HFD). We used prediction algorithms and luciferase reporter assay to identify the target gene of miRNAs. To overexpress the miRNA miR-30b or inhibit miR-30b rats were injected with lentivirus particles containing PGLV3-miR-30b or PGLV3-miR-30b antimiR through tail vein. Hepatic steatosis was measured using transient elastography in human subjects.

RESULTS

Our data showed that miR-30b was markedly up-regulated in the liver of HFD-treated rats. Bioinformatic and in vitro and in vivo studies led us to identify sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca²⁺ -ATPase 2b (SERCA2b), as a novel target of miR-30b. Overexpression of miR-30b induced ER stress and insulin resistance in rats fed with normal diet, whereas inhibition of miR-30b by miR-30b antimiR suppressed ER stress and insulin resistance in HFD-treated rats. Finally, our data demonstrated that there was a positive correlation between serum miR-30b levels and hepatic steatosis or homoeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in human subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that miR-30b represents not only a potential target for the treatment of insulin resistance, but also a non-invasive disease biomarker of NAFLD.

Simultaneous determination of the pharmacokinetics of A-type EGCG and ECG dimers in mice plasma and its metabolites by UPLC-QTOF-MS

A-type epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) and epicatechin-3-O-gallate (ECG) dimers have multiply biological activities. In this study, the pharmacokinetics of them were investigated in mice after a single dose intravenous administration, and the metabolites in mice plasma and urine were investigated by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-Quadrupole-time of flight mass spectrometer (UPLC-QTOF-MS). Our results showed that the half-life (t_1/2) of A-type EGCG and ECG dimers were 116.37 min and 33.04 min, respectively, and the maximal concentration in plasma was 32.81 μg/mL and 55.59 μg/mL, respectively. It was found that two dimers were firstly experienced by quinone methide (QM) fission to form the EGCG and ECG analogue, and the phase II metabolites were generated subsequently. The main metabolites in plasma and urine were glucuronidation and sulphation derivatives. In addition, small molecule weight of phenolic acids were detected in urine.

The specific status of Melastoma kudoi (Melastomataceae, Melastomeae)

BACKGROUND

Melastoma has undergone rapid species radiation during the last one million years, and circumscription of some species in the genus has remained controversial. Melastoma kudoi, an erect species narrowly endemic to central Taiwan was previously treated as a synonym of M. intermedium, a semicreeping hybrid between the erect species M. candidum and the creeping M. dodecandrum, making its identity questionable. We addressed this question based on molecular and morphological data.

RESULTS

Phylogenetic analyses based on nrITS sequence data revealed that M. kudoi is most closely related to M. dodecandrum. Further analyses of six nuclear genes (cam, chi, gapC, gbss, tpi and vr) and two chloroplast markers (trnL-trnF and psbA) showed that M. kudoi is well diverged from its close relatives. Morphologically, it is also easily distinguished from related species by its erect habit, center-positioned stigma, and spreading, basally enlarged hairs on the hypanthium.

CONCLUSIONS

Both molecular phylogenetic and morphological data suggest that M. kudoi is well separated from M. intermedium, M. dodecandrum, and O. scaberrima, and should be treated as a distinct species. Taxonomic treatment and detailed description of M. kudoi are provided.

[Clinical value of vacuum sealing drainage in the treatment of oral and maxillofacial space infection]

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to observe the efficacy of vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) by continuous negative pressure drainage and saline irrigation in the treatment of oral and maxillofacial space infection.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis was conducted on 116 cases of maxillofacial space infection, and clinical data were collected to compare the therapeutic effects of routine incision with drainage treatment (traditional treatment group, 58 cases) and VSD treatment (VSD group, 58 cases).

RESULTS

The length of hospital stay, white blood cell count, scar length, frequency of dressing change, and pain degree of patients in the VSD group were all lower than those in the traditional treatment group. Moreover, the improvement degree of mouth opening in the VSD groups was better than that in the traditional treatment group (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

VSD is a more effective method for the treatment of oral and maxillofacial space infection.

[The expression and role of PLUNC, TLR2 and NF-κB in nasal polyps]

Objective:To investigate the expression of palate, lung, nasal epithelium clone (PLUNC), Tolllike receptor 2 (TLR-2) and nuclear factor-Kappa B (NF-κB) in nasal polyps tissues and normal inferior turbinate mucosa. To analysethe correlation of their expression and to provide a new treatment of nasal polyps.Method:The specimens were divided into two groups: nasal polyps tissues group (n = 46) and normal inferior turbinate mucosa group (n = 19). EOS and others inflammatory cells was detected by HE staining. performing immunohistochemistry, we investigated the expression and distribution of PLUNC, TLR2 and NF-κB. Meanwhile we evaluated the positive expression and correlation of PLUNC, TLR2 and NF-κB between experimental group and control group. All data were processed by using SPSS 21.0 software.Result:EOS infiltration was significantly higher than the control group (P< 0.05). The expression level of PLUNC in experimental group is significantly lower, there is a statistical significance (P< 0. 05). The expression of TLR2 and NF-κB in experimental group is obviously higher than the control group, with statistical significance (P< 0.05). Spearman correlation analysia showed that PLUNC in experimental group is negatively correlated with TLR2 and NF-κB (r= －0.675, r= －0.550, P< 0.05). TLR2 is positively correlated with NF-κB (r= 0.540, P< 0.05). EOS infiltration degree positive correlation with TLR2 and NF-κB exist (r= 0.417, r= 0.470, P< 0.05), degree negative correlation with PLUNC exist (r= －0.859, P< 0.05).Conclusion:PLUNC expression in nasal polyps is lower than the normal inferior turbinate group. TLR2 and NF-κB expression in nasal polyps are higher than the normal inferior turbinate group.suggesting that the formation of nasal nolyps may be associated with lower natural immunity and the existing of infectious agents.

Acetazolamide protects rat articular chondrocytes from IL-1β-induced apoptosis by inhibiting the activation of NF-κB signal pathway

Because the excessive apoptosis of articular chondrocytes contributes to extracellular matrix (ECM) loss and cartilage damage in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), inhibiting chondrocyte apoptosis might be a promising strategy for RA. Aquaporin1 (AQP1) is overexpressed in RA cartilage and synovial tissues, and play a vital pathogenic role in RA development. Particularly, we previously reported that acetazolamide (AZ) as an AQP1 inhibitor suppressed secondary inflammation and promoted ECM production in cartilage of adjuvant-induced arthritis rats. Here, we investigated the antiapoptotic effect of AZ on interleukin-1β (IL-1β)-induced apoptosis, a classic in vitro model of chondrocyte apoptosis. AZ treatment could inhibit IL-1β-induced apoptosis, evidenced by increasing cell viability, relieving apoptotic nuclear morphology, decreasing apoptosis rates, and restoring mitochondrial membrane potential. Additionally, AZ reversed IL-1β-induced decrease of Bcl-2 protein and reduced IL-1β-induced increases of Bax and caspase 3 protein, accompanied by inhibiting IκBα degradation and phosphorylation in cytoplasm, reducing NF-κB p65 protein level in nucleus and preventing NF-κB p65 translocation from cytoplasm to nucleus. In conclusion, our findings indicated that AZ could effectively attenuate IL-1β-induced chondrocyte apoptosis mediated by regulating the protein levels of apoptosis-related genes and inhibiting the activation of NF-κB signal pathway, suggesting that AZ might be of potential clinical interest in RA treatment.

[A case report of myoepithelial carcinoma in the nasal septum]

Summary To explore the clinical features and treatment methods of myoepithelial carcinoma in the nasal septum.Myoepithelial carcinoma occurs in malignant epithelial tumors of the parotid region,from the nasal septum is more rare.The clinical feature of myoepithelial carcinoma in the nasal septum was atypical .The patients is mainly characterized by nasal obstruction,CT of tumor invasion nasal septum,on the right of the sinuses and lamina papyracea; pathology examination showed CK,S-100 protein and vimentin were positive,eventually,diagnosed with nasal septum myoepithelial carcinoma.

Inhibitory Effect of Persimmon Tannin on Pancreatic Lipase and the Underlying Mechanism in Vitro

Pancreatic lipase (PL) is a critical enzyme associated with hyperlipidemia and obesity. A previous study of ours suggested that persimmon tannin (PT) was the main component accounting for the antihyperlipidemic effects of persimmon fruits, but the underlying mechanisms were unclear. In this present study, the inhibitory effect of PT on PL was studied and the possible mechanisms were evaluated by fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD) spectra, isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), and molecular docking. PT had a high affinity to PL and inhibited the activity of PL with the half maximal inhibitory concertation (IC₅₀) value of 0.44 mg/mL in a noncompetitive way. Furthermore, molecular docking revealed that the hydrogen bonding and π-π stacking was mainly responsible for the interaction. The strong inhibition of PT on PL in the gastrointestinal tract might be one mechanism for its lipid-lowering effect.

[Occurrence and Spatial Distribution of Volatile Organic Compounds in Urban Drinking Water Distribution Systems]

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the urban drinking water distribution systems for two coastal cities (S City and L City) in China were analyzed. Health risk assessments of VOCs detected in tap water were performed, and the distribution characteristics of VOCs in the tap water pipe network were also investigated. Among 47 target VOCs, 16 compounds were detected, of which 11 were detected in both S City and L City. Halogenated hydrocarbons were the most commonly detected VOCs, with trihalomethanes (including bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane, and bromoform) having the highest detection frequencies (92%-100%). With the exception of bromodichloromethane and dibromochloromethane, the maximum concentrations of detected VOCs in both cities complied with the relevant limits regulated by the standards for drinking water quality (GB 5749-2006). For bromodichloromethane and dibromochloromethane, not only did their concentrations exceed the standard limits of GB 5749-2006 (60 μg·L^-1 for bromodichloromethane and 100 μg·L^-1 for dibromochloromethane), but their lifetime cancer risks (LCR) were estimated at unacceptable levels (>10^-4). Therefore, these two compounds should be given sufficient attention or be classified as priority control pollutants in municipal water supply networks. In addition, the spatial distribution of eight VOCs with high detection frequencies (>90%) in the tap water pipe network of S City was investigated. The concentrations of VOCs (excluding toluene) in this urban drinking water distribution system gradually decreased with increasing distance from the drinking water treatment plant.

Therapeutic effect of acetazolamide, an aquaporin 1 inhibitor, on adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats by inhibiting NF-κB signal pathway

OBJECTIVES

Previous studies have shown that aquaporin 1 (AQP1) is up-regulated in synovium and cartilage of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and that AQP1 may be involved in joint swelling and synovial inflammation. This study was aimed to investigate the potential therapeutic effect of acetazolamide (AZ, an AQP1 inhibitor) on rat adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) and explore its related mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rat AIA was induced by complete Freund's adjuvant. The effect of AZ on rat AIA was evaluated by secondary hind paw swelling, arthritis index, TNF-α and IL-1β serum levels and histological examination of ankle joint. Proteoglycans expression and mRNA levels of type-II collagen (COII) and aggrecan in cartilage were measured by alcian blue staining and real-time PCR, respectively. The protein levels of AQP1, IκBα, phospho-IκBα (p-IκBα), NF-κB p65 and phospho-NF-κB p65 (p-NF-κB p65) in synovial tissues were detected by western blot.

RESULTS

AZ treatment could inhibit secondary hind paw swelling and arthritis index, reduce serum levels of TNF-α and IL-1β, and ameliorate pathological changes of ankle joint in AIA rats. AZ increased proteoglycans production and mRNA levels of COII and aggrecan in cartilage tissues. Moreover, AZ decreased AQP1 protein level and suppressed the activation of NF-κB pathway in synovium, indicated by inhibiting the degradation and phosphorylation of IκBα and reducing p-NF-κB p65 protein level.

CONCLUSIONS

AZ as an AQP1 inhibitor has a powerful therapeutic effect on rat AIA via inhibiting NF-κB activation, suggesting AQP1 inhibition might be of potential clinical interest in RA treatment.

Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) protects ovariectomized rats fed with high-saturated fat-sucrose diet from bone loss

Dietary patterns may interfere with the efficacy of herbal intervention. Our results demonstrated the protective effects of Salvia miltiorrhiza aqueous extract (SMA) on bone metabolism were influenced by levels of dietary fat and sucrose in ovariectomized (OVX) rats through its actions on attenuating lipid deposition and oxidative stress in rats.

INTRODUCTION

Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM), also known as Danshen, has been tested as an osteoporosis treatment in a series of small, short human trials that generally report improvements in bone property. However, dietary patterns may interfere with the effects of herbal intervention. We hypothesized that dietary fat and sucrose levels could influence the effects of SM supplementation on bone in estrogen-deficient animals.

METHODS

Six-month-old Sprague-Dawley sham or OVX rats were fed either a low-saturated fat-sucrose (LFS, a diet that was similar in composition to normal rat chow) or a high-fat-sucrose (HFS) diet and OVX rats were treated (8 rats/group) with SM aqueous extract (SMA, 600 mg/kg/day), 17β-estradiol (1 mg/kg/day), or vehicle for 12 weeks.

RESULTS

SMA significantly improved bone properties as revealed by the increase in trabecular bone mineral density and decrease in trabecular separation at proximal metaphysis of the tibia (PT) in HFS-fed OVX rats, but not in LFS-fed OVX rats. SMA greatly reduced lipid deposition and malondialdehyde levels, improved the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase in the livers of HFS-fed OVX rats. SMA could directly improve the proliferation and differentiation in vitro in an H₂O₂-induced preosteoblast cell model by attenuating cellular reactive oxygen species levels.

CONCLUSIONS

The protective effects of SMA on bone metabolism were influenced by dietary fat and sucrose levels in OVX rats. The ability of SMA to reduce bone loss in HFS-fed OVX rats was associated with the attenuation of lipid deposition and oxidative stress levels.

Aquaporin-4 Blockage by siRNA Protects Rat Articular Chondrocytes from IL-1β-induced Apoptosis by Inhibiting p38 MAPK Signal Pathway

Accumulating evidence reveals that articular chondrocytes undergo increased apoptosis in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and inhibiting chondrocyte apoptosis might be a promising therapeutic strategy. We recently found that aquaporin-4 (AQP4) protein level in the cartilage of rats with adjuvant-induced arthritis was higher than normal rats. Herein, cultured rat articular chondrocyte impaired by interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) was used as an in vitro model of chondrocyte apoptosis. We observed the protective effect of AQP4 blockage by siRNA on IL-1β-induced chondrocyte apoptosis and explored the underlying mechanisms. Our findings revealed that AQP4 siRNA protected articular chondrocytes from IL-1β-induced apoptosis, evidenced by increased cell proliferation (MTT assay), few observations of apoptotic morphologic changes (Hoechst 33258 staining assay) and decreased cell apoptosis rates (Annexin V-FITC/PI staining assay). Additionally, AQP4 siRNA remarkably decreased Bax and caspase 3 mRNA levels and increased Bcl-2 mRNA level, accompanied by reducing phosphorylated-p38 (P-p38) protein level, without affecting p38 protein. The above effects of AQP4 siRNA were similar to SB203580, a specific p38 inhibitor. Together, AQP4 siRNA attenuated IL-1β-induced chondrocyte apoptosis by regulating apoptosis-related gene expressions and inhibiting p38 MAPK. Our results provide experimental evidence that AQP4 inhibition contributes to preventing chondrocyte apoptosis in joint diseases such as RA and provide a novel therapeutic target for RA.

Urine anti-PLA2R antibody is a novel biomarker of idiopathic membranous nephropathy

Since urine samples more directly reflect kidney alterations and damage than blood samples, we investigated whether urine anti-PLA₂R antibody (uPLA₂R-Ab) could be utilized similarly to serum anti-PLA₂R antibody (sPLA₂R-Ab) as a noninvasive biomarker of idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN). In this study, we performed a qualitative analysis using an indirect immunofluorescence test (IIFT) and measured uPLA₂R-Ab and sPLA₂R-Ab concentrations using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in 28 patients with biopsy-proven IMN and 12 patients with secondary membranous nephropathy (SMN). Overall, 64.3% (n=18) of patients with IMN had IIFT-positive sPLA₂R-Ab, 67.9% (n=19) of patients with IMN had IIFT-positive uPLA₂R-Ab, and none of the SMN patients had IIFT-positive sPLA₂R-Ab or uPLA₂R-Ab. The titers of the anti-PLA₂R antibody from the IMN patients in the urine (10.72±22.24 RU/μmol, presented as uPLA₂R-Ab/urine creatinine) and serum (107.36±140.93 RU/ml) were higher than those from the SMN patients (0.51±0.46 RU/μmol, 0.008±0.029 RU/ml, respectively, p<0.05). Statistical analyses indicated that there were positive correlations between uPLA₂R-Ab and gPLA₂R, sPLA₂R-Ab or urinary protein and negative correlations between uPLA₂R-Ab and serum albumin in patients with IMN. In conclusion, uPLA₂R-Ab is a novel biomarker of IMN. sPLA₂R-Ab combined with uPLA₂R-Ab might be more helpful for diagnosis and activity in PLA₂R associated MN.

Comparison of disaggregative effect of A-type EGCG dimer and EGCG monomer on the preformed bovine insulin amyloid fibrils

In the present study, the disruptive effects of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) and A-type dimeric epigallocatechin-3-gallate (A-type EGCG dimer) on the preformed bovine insulin amyloid fibrils were studied by several biophysical methods including thioflavin-T (ThT) fluorescence assay, 1-anilinonaphthalene-8-sulfonic (ANS) fluorescence assay, Congo red (CR) binding assay, dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and Bradford assay. Our results demonstrated that A-type EGCG dimer showed significantly more potential disaggregative effects on the bovine insulin amyloid fibrils than EGCG. A-type EGCG dimer could not only dramatically promote the disaggregation of the preformed bovine insulin amyloid fibrils, but also restructure the amyloid fibrils into amorphous aggregates. While, EGCG could only shorten and thin the fibrils, but induce no small amorphous aggregates. Our present results provided additional evidence for the more potent disaggregation effects of dimeric polyphenols than monomeric polyphenols and suggested that A-type EGCG dimer seems to have potential application as an excellent anti-amyloidogenic agent.

Four-dimensional echocardiography area strain combined with exercise stress echocardiography to evaluate left ventricular regional systolic function in patients with mild single vessel coronary artery stenosis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this prospective study was to assess the diagnosis value of four-dimensional echocardiography area strain (AS) combined with exercise stress echocardiography to evaluate left ventricular regional systolic function in patients with mild single vessel coronary artery stenosis.

METHODS

Based on treadmill exercise load status, two-dimensional conventional echocardiography and four-dimensional echocardiography area strain were performed on patients suspected coronary artery disease before coronary angiogram. Thirty patients (case group) with mild left anterior descending coronary artery stenosis (stenosis <50%) and thirty gender- and age-matched patients (control group) without coronary artery stenosis according to the coronary angiogram results were prospectively enrolled.

RESULTS

All the patients had no left ventricular regional wall motion abnormality in two-dimensional echocardiography at rest and exercise stress. There was no significant difference in the 16 segmental systolic peak AS at rest between two groups. After exercise stress, the peak systolic AS_rest-stress at mid anterior wall (-7.00%±10.90% vs 2.80%±23.69%) and mid anterolateral wall (-4.40%±18.81% vs 8.80%±19.16%) were decreased, while increased at basal inferolateral wall (14.00%±19.27% vs -5.60%±15.94%) in case group compared with control group (P<.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with mild single vessel coronary artery stenosis, the area strain was decreased at involved segments, while compensatory increased at noninvolved segments after exercise stress. Four-dimensional echocardiography area strain combined with exercise stress echocardiography could sensitively find left ventricular regional systolic function abnormality in patients with mild single vessel coronary artery stenosis, and locate stenosis coronary artery accordingly.

Physical mechanism of δ-δ'-ε phase stability in plutonium

Based on first-principle calculations, we have systematically explored the nature of the elastic stability and the δ-δ′-ε phase transitions in pure Pu at high temperature. It is found that, both the electron-phonon coupling and the spin fluctuation effects tend to decrease the tetragonal elastic constant (C′) of δ-Pu, accounting for its anomalous softening at high temperature. The lattice thermal expansion together with the electron-phonon coupling can stiffen C′ of ε-Pu, promoting its mechanical stability at high temperature. The δ-ε transition is calculated to take place around 750–800 K, and is dominated by the phonon vibration. The δ′ intermediate phase is realized around 750 K mainly because of the thermal spin fluctuation.

The detoxifying effects of structural elements of persimmon tannin on Chinese cobra phospholipase A 2 correlated with their structural disturbing effects well

The effects of persimmon tannin (PT) characteristic structural elements on Naja atra phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂)-induced lethality, myotoxicity, and hemolysis in mice models were determined. In addition, methods including surface plasmon resonance, dynamic light scattering, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were explored to uncover the possible detoxifying mechanisms of PT on snake venom PLA₂. Our results revealed that PT characteristic elements (EGCG, ECG, A-type EGCG dimer, and A-type ECG dimer) could neutralize the lethality, myotoxicity, and hemolysis of PLA₂. Moreover, the detoxifying effects of the four structural elements correlated with their structural disturbing effects well. Our results proved that A-type EGCG dimer and A-type ECG dimer may be structural requirements for the detoxifying effects of PT. We propose that the high affinity of A-type EGCG dimer and A-type ECG dimer for PLA₂ and the considerable spatial structural disturbance of PLA₂ induced by the dimers may be responsible for their antilethality, antimyotoxicity, and antihemolysis on Chinese cobra PLA₂in vivo.

Regulation of the Alternative Splicing and Function of Cyclin T1 by the Serine-Arginine-Rich Protein ASF/SF2

Positive transcription elongation factor-b (P-TEFb) is required for the release of RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) from its pause near the gene promoters and thus for efficient proceeding to the transcription elongation. It consists of two core subunits-CDK9 and one of T-typed or K-typed cyclin, of which, cyclin T1/CDK9 is the major and most studied combination. We have previously identified a novel splice variant of cyclin T1, cyclin T1b, which negatively regulates the transcription elongation of HIV-1 genes as well as several host genes. In this study, we revealed the serine-arginine-rich protein, ASF/SF2, as a regulatory factor of the alternative splicing of cyclin T1 gene. ASF/SF2 promotes the production of cyclin T1b versus cyclin T1a and regulates the expression of cyclin T1-depedent genes at the transcription level. We further found that a cis-element on exon 8 is responsible for the skipping of exon 7 mediated by ASF/SF2. Collectively, ASF/SF2 is identified as a splicing regulator of cyclin T1, which contributes to the control of the subsequent transcription events. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4020-4032, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Differentiation of Lymphoma Presenting as Retroperitoneal Mass and Retroperitoneal Fibrosis: Evaluation with Multidetector-row Computed Tomography

Background:

Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) and lymphoma presenting as retroperitoneal mass may closely resemble each other and misdiagnosis may occur. This study investigated the differential imaging features of RPF and lymphoma which presented as a retroperitoneal soft tissue using multidetector-row computed tomography (MDCT).

Methods:

The 42 consecutive patients were included in this retrospective review, including 19 RPF patients (45.2%; including 13 males and 6 females; mean age: 56.7 ± 6.2 years) and 23 patients with lymphoma (54.8%; including 14 males and 9 females; mean age: 57.4 ± 12.3 years). An array of qualitative computed tomography (CT) features of lesions in 42 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed untreated RPF and lymphoma were retrospectively analyzed. The quantitative size of the lesion at the para-aortic region and attenuation in the precontrast, arterial, and portal phases were calculated in regions of interest and compared between the patients with newly diagnosed untreated RPF and with lymphoma. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to assess the potential diagnostic value of each quantitative parameter. Inter-reader concordance was also calculated.

Results:

Mean ages between patients with RPF and lymphoma were not significantly different (56.7 ± 6.2 years vs. 57.4 ± 12.3 years P = 0.595). Compared to those in patients with lymphoma, homogeneous enhancement (65.2% vs. 94.7%, P = 0.027) and pelvic extension (52.2% vs. 89.5%, P = 0.017) were significantly more common while the involvement of additional nodes (78.3% vs. 5.3%, P < 0.001), suprarenal extension (60.9% vs. 15.8%, P = 0.004), and aortic displacement (43.5% vs. 5.3%, P = 0.006) were significantly less common in patients with RPF. Lesion size at the para-aorta was significantly greater in patients with lymphoma, compared with RPF patients (3.9 ± 1.2 cm vs. 1.8 ± 0.6 cm; P < 0.001). The attenuation values in three phases were not significantly different between patients with RPF and lymphoma. Inter-reader concordance for subjective features ranged from very good to excellent (range: 85.7–100.0%).

Conclusions:

This study showed that MDCT can help differentiate between untreated RPF and lymphoma on the basis of qualitative CT features and lesion sizes. Differentiating RPF from lymphoma on the basis of attenuation values in the precontrast, arterial, and portal phases was difficult to accomplish.

Dissipative energy loss within the left ventricle detected by vector flow mapping in diabetic patients with controlled and uncontrolled blood glucose levels

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is related to increased risks of cardiovascular diseases, such as myocardial infarction, diabetic cardiomyopathy and secondary hypertension. Dissipative energy loss (EL) derived from vector flow mapping (VFM) is thought to reflect the efficiency of blood flow and has been deemed to be an index for the evaluation of left ventricular function. Our study aimed to investigate the value of dissipative EL in diabetic patients with controlled and uncontrolled blood glucose by VFM. Eighty-eight patients with DM and 58 age-matched healthy controls were recruited. All of the patients received echocardiography examinations. VFM analyses were executed to calculate the EL values according to the apical four-chamber examinations from the left ventricle (LV) view. Our results showed that diastolic EL was compromised in the controlled-blood glucose (59.19 mV/m vs. 32.68 mV/m, p = 0.039) patients and was more dramatically increased in the uncontrolled blood glucose group (88.84 mV/m vs. 32.68 mV/m, p < 0.001) compared with the healthy controls. The impairment of systolic EL was observed only in the uncontrolled blood glucose patients (39.65 mV/m vs. 20.29 mV/m, p < 0.001) and not in the controlled blood glucose patients (29.25 mV/m vs. 20.29 mV/m, p = 0.072). Multivariate backward stepwise linear regression analysis revealed that the HbA1c level was independently related to the diastolic EL (β = 0.233, p = 0.026) and systolic EL (β = 0.237, p = 0.023). VFM is feasible and reproducible for assessing LV dissipative EL in DM patients with normal LVEF values in whom diastolic EL may be a more vulnerable indicator of early LV cardiac dysfunction in patients with DM. However, LV systolic EL may be a sensitive indicator of preclinical LV dysfunction for patients with DM with uncontrolled blood glucose levels. Uncontrolled blood glucose, which is independently correlated with subclinical LV dysfunction, may lead to increases in systolic EL and diastolic EL in LV.

Evaluation of the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer in Patients with Prostate-specific Antigen <20 ng/ml

Background:

The European Society of Urogenital Radiology has built the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) for standardizing the diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa). This study evaluated the PI-RADS diagnosis method in patients with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) <20 ng/ml.

Methods:

A total of 133 patients with PSA <20 ng/ml were prospectively recruited. T2-weighted (T2WI) and diffusion-weighted (DWI) magnetic resonance images of the prostate were acquired before a 12-core transrectal prostate biopsy. Each patient's peripheral zone was divided into six regions on the images; each region corresponded to two of the 12 biopsy cores. T2WI, DWI, and T2WI + DWI scores were computed according to PI-RADS. The diagnostic accuracy of the PI-RADS score was evaluated using histopathology of prostate biopsies as the reference standard.

Results:

PCa was histologically diagnosed in 169 (21.2%) regions. Increased PI-RADS score correlated positively with increased cancer detection rate. The cancer detection rate for scores 1 to 5 was 2.8%, 15.0%, 34.6%, 52.6%, and 88.9%, respectively, using T2WI and 12.0%, 20.2%, 48.0%, 85.7%, and 93.3%, respectively, using DWI. For T2WI + DWI, the cancer detection rate was 1.5% (score 2), 13.5% (scores 3–4), 41.3% (scores 5–6), 75.9% (scores 7–8), and 92.3% (scores 9–10). The area under the curve for cancer detection was 0.700 (T2WI), 0.735 (DWI) and 0.749 (T2WI + DWI). The sensitivity and specificity were 53.8% and 89.2%, respectively, when using scores 5–6 as the cutoff value for T2WI + DWI.

Conclusions:

The PI-RADS score correlates with the PCa detection rate in patients with PSA <20 ng/ml. The summed score of T2WI + DWI has the highest accuracy in detection of PCa. However, the sensitivity should be further improved.