Comparative investigation of transport and deposition of nebulized particles in nasal airways following various middle turbinectomy

BACKGROUND

Topical intranasal medication is required following functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). The optimal particle size of transnasal nebulization aimed at the sinonasal cavities is not conclusive. The current study aims to evaluate the effect of particle size and various surgery scope of middle turbinectomy (MT) on post-full FESS drug delivery to the sinonasal cavities.

METHODS

Sinonasal reconstructions were performed from post-full FESS CT scans in 6 chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) patients. Four additional models representing alternative surgery scopes of MT were established from each post-FESS reconstruction for simulation data comparison. Airflow and particle deposition of nebulized delivery were simulated via computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and validated through in vitro experiments. The optimal particle sizes reaching a deposition of at least 75% of the maximum in the targeted regions were identified.

RESULTS

The drug deposition rate onto the targeted regions increased following MT, with the greatest deposition following posterior MT (P-MT). Droplets in the range of 18-26 μm reached a deposition of larger than 75% of the maximum onto the targeted regions. Drug delivery rate in the sinonasal cavities varied significantly among individuals and across different types of MT with varying surgical scopes.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first to investigate the effect of various surgery scope on drug delivery by transnasal nebulization to the sinonasal cavities. The findings strongly affirm the vast potential of transnasal nebulization as an effective post-FESS treatment option. Moreover, it emphasizes that the drug delivery process via atomizers to the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses is highly sensitive to the particle size.

Unveiling the greenhouse gas emissions of drinking water treatment plant throughout the construction and operation stages based on life cycle assessment

The carbon peaking and carbon neutrality targets proposed by the Chinese government have initiated a green transformation that is full of challenges and opportunities and endowed sustainable development strategy for combating global warming issue. It is essential to execute comprehensive identification and carbon reduction measures across all industries that produce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Water supply system, as an energy-intensive sector, plays a crucial role in GHG reduction. This work conducted a life cycle assessment (LCA) to account the GHG emissions associated with the construction and operation phases of the drinking water treatment plant (DWTP). During the construction phase, the total GHG emissions were 19,525.762 t CO2-eq, with concrete work and rebar project being the dominant contributors (87.712%). The promotion of renewable or recyclable green building materials and low-carbon construction methods, such as the utilization of prefabricated components and on-site assembly, holds significant importance in reducing GHG emissions during the construction phase of DWTP. Regarding the operation stage, the DWTP possessed an average annual GHG emission of 37,660.160 t CO2-eq and an average GHG intensity of 0.202 kg CO2-eq/m3. Most emissions were attributed to electricity consumption (67.388%), chemicals utilization (12.893%), and heat consumption (10.414%). By increasing the use of clean energy and implementing strict control measures in the water supply pumps, energy consumption and GHG emissions can be effectively reduced. This study offers valuable insights into the mapping of GHG emissions in the DWTP, facilitating the identification of key areas for targeted implementation of energy-saving and carbon-reducing measures.

Examining Antimicrobial Resistance in Escherichia coli: A Case Study in Central Virginia's Environment

While environmental factors may contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in bacteria, many aspects of environmental antibiotic pollution and resistance remain unknown. Furthermore, the level of AMR in Escherichia coli is considered a reliable indicator of the selection pressure exerted by antimicrobial use in the environment. This study aimed to assess AMR variance in E. coli isolated from diverse environmental samples, such as animal feces and water from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and drainage areas of different land use systems in Central Virginia. In total, 450 E. coli isolates obtained between August 2020 and February 2021 were subjected to susceptibility testing against 12 antimicrobial agents approved for clinical use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Approximately 87.8% of the tested isolates were resistant to at least one antimicrobial agent, with 3.1% showing multi-drug resistance. Streptomycin resistance was the most common (73.1%), while susceptibility to chloramphenicol was the highest (97.6%). One isolate obtained from WWTPs exhibited resistance to seven antimicrobials. AMR prevalence was the highest in WWTP isolates, followed by isolates from drainage areas, wild avians, and livestock. Among livestock, horses had the highest AMR prevalence, while cattle had the lowest. No significant AMR difference was found across land use systems. This study identifies potential AMR hotspots, emphasizing the environmental risk for antimicrobial resistant E. coli. The findings will aid policymakers and researchers, highlighting knowledge gaps in AMR-environment links. This nationally relevant research offers a scalable AMR model for understanding E. coli ecology. Further large-scale research is crucial to confirm the environmental impacts on AMR prevalence in bacteria.

The host specificity of pilus gene traA in Escherichia coli and its use in tracking human fecal pollution

A reliable and accurate fecal source tracking (FST) approach is important in water quality management and preventing foodborne and waterborne diseases. In this study, a genetic marker of Escherichia coli (E. coli) was identified and utilized to differentiate between human and animal sources of fecal contamination. Nucleotide polymorphisms of 14 genes coding for cellular surface proteins, mainly fimbriae, were analyzed using the 22 draft genomes of E. coli strains from human and three domestic animal sources in Japan. A signature sequence, traAh, within the pilin gene traA, was found to be highly associated with E. coli of human origin. Subsequently, an end-point polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, namely PCR-Htra, was developed, specifically targeting traAh. The high association between traAh and E. coli of human origin was validated through the PCR-Htra amplification. This encompassed 1045 E. coli strains isolated from surface water, human feces or sewages, and feces from 12 animal species, including domestic and wild animals in the states of Missouri and Virginia in the United States of America (USA). The data suggested that the sensitivity and specificity of PCR-Htra assay were 49.0 % and 99.5 % respectively in distinguishing human-origin E. coli from nonhuman-source ones. Furthermore, the result of our in silico analysis of GenBank® data suggests that traAh may have a global distribution as the sequence was found in human-origin E. coli isolated from at least 14 countries around the world. Thus, the PCR-Htra may provide a new FST tool for rapid and accurate detection of human-origin E. coli, serving as a means to identify human fecal contamination in water.

ELABELA-APJ Axis Enhances Mesenchymal Stem Cell Proliferation and Migration via the METTL3/PI3K/AKT Pathway

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess a strong therapeutic potential in regenerative medicine. ELABELA (ELA) is a 32 amino acid peptide that binds to the apelin peptide jejunum receptor (APJ) to regulate cell proliferation and migration. The aim of this study was to investigate the function of ELA vis-a-vis the MSC proliferation and migration, and further explore the underlying mechanism. We demonstrated that the exogenous supplement of ELA boosts the proliferation and migration ability of MSCs, alongside improved in vitro cell viability. These capabilities were rendered moot upon APJ knockdown. In addition, ELA (5-20 μM) was shown to upregulate the expression of METTL3 in a concentrationdependent pattern, a capacity which was suppressed by APJ reduction, whereas the downregulation of METTL3 expression blocked the beneficial effects induced by ELA. ELA was also observed to upregulate the phosphorylation level of AKT. This ELA-induced activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, however, is inhibited with knockdown of METTL3. Our data indicate that ELA could act as a promoter of MSC proliferation and migration in vitro through the APJ receptor, something which might be attributed to the activation of the METTL3/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Therefore, ELA is a candidate for optimizing MSC-based cell therapy, while METTL3 is a potential target for its promoting action on MSCs.

[Efficacy of Hintermann calcaneal lengthening osteotomy for flexible flatfoot]

Objective: To investigate the clinical efficacy of Hintermann osteotomy (H-LCL) for flexible flatfoot. Methods: A follow-up study. Clinical data of 30 patients with flexible flatfoot treated with H-LCL operation from January 2020 to December 2021 in Sports Medical Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University were retrospectively analyzed. There were 8 males and 22 females, with a mean age of (39.0±15.2) years. The mean time from symptom onset to the diagnosis［M（Q₁，Q₃）］was 24.0 (5.5, 102.0) months. The functional and imaging scores of the patients before and after the last follow-up were compared to evaluate the clinical efficacy of the operation. The functional scores included American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, visual analogue scale (VAS) of pain, pain interference (PI) and physical function (PF) index in Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS). And the imaging scores included Meary's angle, calcaneal pitch angle, calcaneal valgus angle and talonavicular coverage angle. Results: The mean operation time was (82.3±24.4) min, and the follow-up periods was (17.9±6.9) months. At the last follow-up, VAS of pain [M(Q₁, Q₃)] decreased from 5 (4, 6) to 2 (1, 2); PI decreased from 59.8±5.0 to 44.6±5.7; AOFAS increased from 65.2±10.0 to 85.8±3.3; PF increased from 50 (48.5,51.0) to 58.5 (54.0, 66.0); Meary's angle (antero-posterior image) decreased from 15.7° (10.1°, 29.2°) to 3.9° (2.6°, 5.3°); Meary's angle (lateral image) decreased from 13.5°±6.8° to 4.4°±2.6°; calcaneal pitch angle increased from 14.0°±3.3° to 18.6°±4.2°; calcaneal valgus angle decreased from 12.6°±7.3° to 4.3°±2.5°; and talonavicular coverage angle decreased from 20.9°±10.7° to 7.7°±5.2°. The up-mentioned parameters were all improved statistically significant at the last follow-up when compared with those before the operation (all P<0.05). Conclusion: H-LCL brings a significant improvement of clinical outcome scores and good radiological correction of flatfoot deformities in correcting flexible flatfoot, it conforms to the anatomical characteristics of the subtalar joint.

[Correlation analysis and benchmark dose study on bone metabolic biochemical index of low doses of exposed hydrogen fluoride workers]

Objective: To analyze correlation of occupational hydrogen fluoride exposure to low doses of bone metabolism index through occupational epidemiological investigation and benchmark dose calculation. Methods: In May 2021, using cluster sampling method, 237 workers exposed to hydrogen fluoride in a company were selected as the contact group, and 83 workers not exposed to hydrogen fluoride in an electronics production company were selected as the control group. The external exposure dose and urinary fluoride concentration, blood and urine biochemical indicators of the workers was measured.The relationship between external dose and internal dose of hydrogen fluoride was analyzed. The external dose, urinary fluoride was used as exposure biomarkers, while serum osteocalcin (BGP), serum alkaline phosphatase (AKP) and urinary hydroxyproline (HYP) were used as effect biomarkers for bone metabolism of hydrogen fluoride exposure. The benchmark dose calculation software (BMDS1.3.2) was used to calculate benchmark dose (BMD) . Results: Urine fluoride concentration in the contact group was correlated with creatinine-adjusted urine fluoride concentration (r=0.69, P=0.001). There was no significant correlation between the external dose of hydrogen fluoride and urine fluoride in the contact group (r=0.03, P=0.132). The concentrations of urine fluoride in the contact group and the control group were (0.81±0.61) and (0.45±0.14) mg/L, respectively, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (t=5.01, P=0.025). Using BGP, AKP and HYP as effect indexes, the urinary BMDL-05 values were 1.28, 1.47 and 1.08 mg/L, respectively. Conclusion: Urinary fluoride can sensitively reflect the changes in the effect indexes of biochemical indexes of bone metabolism. BGP and HYP can be used as early sensitive effect indexes of occupational hydrogen fluoride exposure.

The association between dietary selenium intake and Hashimoto's thyroiditis among US adults: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 2007-2012

BACKGROUND

Selenium has been shown to influence the pathological processes and physiological functions of thyroid. Although growing evidence has shown that selenium can improve the treatment of Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT), there is a need to evaluate the association between dietary selenium intake and HT in a large cross-sectional study. This study explored the association between dietary selenium intake and HT based on the National Health reand Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database (2007-2012).

METHODS

A total of 8756 of 30,442 participants were included in the study. Dietary selenium intake was the independent variable, while HT was the dependent variable. In addition, the relative importance of the selected variables was determined using the XGBoost model. A smooth curve was constructed based on the fully adjusted model to investigate the potential linear relationship between dietary selenium intake and HT. Smooth curves were also constructed to explore the linear/non-linear relationship between dietary selenium intake and thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb)/ thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb).

RESULTS

The mean age of the enrolled participants was 44.35 years (± 20.92). The risk of HT was significantly reduced by a 35% per-unit increase in dietary selenium intake after fully adjusting for covariates according to the model (log2-transformed data; OR 0.65; 95% CI 0.51, 0.83). The XGBoost model revealed that dietary selenium intake was the most important variable associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Dietary selenium intake (Log2-transformed) was negatively correlated with TPOAb levels [- 16.42 (- 22.18, - 10.65), P < 0.0001], while a non-linear relationship was observed between dietary selenium intake and TgAb with an inflection point of 6.58 (95.67 μg, Log2-transformed).

CONCLUSION

Dietary selenium intake is independently and inversely associated with HT risk. Moreover, dietary selenium intake is negatively correlated with TPOAb levels and non-linearly correlated with TGAb levels. Therefore, dietary selenium intake may be a safe and low-cost alternative for the prevention and treatment of HT.

Escherichia cryptic clade II through clade VIII: Rapid detection and prevalence in feces and surface water

Bacteria of the cryptic lineage of genus Escherichia, or Escherichia cryptic clades (cryptic clades), are phenotypically indistinguishable from Escherichia coli (E. coli) using standard biochemical tests. Except for clade I (C-I), cryptic clades were hypothetically believed to be environmental but not enteric. If so, they would hinder the interpretation of current E. coli-based water quality (fecal pollution) monitoring in the United States because environmental bacteria do not indicate the presence of harmful fecal material. This study was performed to develop a rapid method for the detection of cryptic clades and to investigate their potential impact on water quality monitoring. By whole-genome comparison, one gene, named ecc (Escherichiacryptic clades), was identified to be unique to C-II through C-VIII. An end-point polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method, eccPCR, was developed by targeting the ecc. The results of in-silico and wet tests demonstrated 100 % sensitivity and specificity of the eccPCR to detect C-II through C-VIII. Based on the EPA Method 1603, 519 presumptive E. coli isolates were obtained from the fecal samples of 13 different host species and 192 isolates from surface water samples taken at four locations in a watershed of mid-Missouri. As indicated by the eccPCR amplification, the overall prevalence of C-II through C-VIII in the presumptive E. coli isolates was estimated to be about 0.6 % in the fecal samples and about 1.6 % in the water samples. Therefore, the potential impact of cryptic clades on water quality monitoring may be limited if EPA Method 1603 is used. Furthermore, clades C-II through C-VIII in stream water samples were found repeatedly only at a single sampling site, but neither at the upstream sites nor five kilometers downstream of the site. The data do not support nor reject the environmental hypothesis about cryptic clades. Further study is needed to determine the implication of the observation.

[A multicenter epidemiological study of acute bacterial meningitis in children]

Objective: To analyze the clinical epidemiological characteristics including composition of pathogens , clinical characteristics, and disease prognosis acute bacterial meningitis (ABM) in Chinese children. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical and laboratory data of 1 610 children <15 years of age with ABM in 33 tertiary hospitals in China from January 2019 to December 2020. Patients were divided into different groups according to age,<28 days group, 28 days to <3 months group, 3 months to <1 year group, 1-<5 years of age group, 5-<15 years of age group; etiology confirmed group and clinically diagnosed group according to etiology diagnosis. Non-numeric variables were analyzed with the Chi-square test or Fisher's exact test, while non-normal distrituction numeric variables were compared with nonparametric test. Results: Among 1 610 children with ABM, 955 were male and 650 were female (5 cases were not provided with gender information), and the age of onset was 1.5 (0.5, 5.5) months. There were 588 cases age from <28 days, 462 cases age from 28 days to <3 months, 302 cases age from 3 months to <1 year of age group, 156 cases in the 1-<5 years of age and 101 cases in the 5-<15 years of age. The detection rates were 38.8% (95/245) and 31.5% (70/222) of Escherichia coli and 27.8% (68/245) and 35.1% (78/222) of Streptococcus agalactiae in infants younger than 28 days of age and 28 days to 3 months of age; the detection rates of Streptococcus pneumonia, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus agalactiae were 34.3% (61/178), 14.0% (25/178) and 13.5% (24/178) in the 3 months of age to <1 year of age group; the dominant pathogens were Streptococcus pneumoniae and the detection rate were 67.9% (74/109) and 44.4% (16/36) in the 1-<5 years of age and 5-<15 years of age . There were 9.7% (19/195) strains of Escherichia coli producing ultra-broad-spectrum β-lactamases. The positive rates of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture and blood culture were 32.2% (515/1 598) and 25.0% (400/1 598), while 38.2% (126/330)and 25.3% (21/83) in CSF metagenomics next generation sequencing and Streptococcus pneumoniae antigen detection. There were 4.3% (32/790) cases of which CSF white blood cell counts were normal in etiology confirmed group. Among 1 610 children with ABM, main intracranial imaging complications were subdural effusion and (or) empyema in 349 cases (21.7%), hydrocephalus in 233 cases (14.5%), brain abscess in 178 cases (11.1%), and other cerebrovascular diseases, including encephalomalacia, cerebral infarction, and encephalatrophy, in 174 cases (10.8%). Among the 166 cases (10.3%) with unfavorable outcome, 32 cases (2.0%) died among whom 24 cases died before 1 year of age, and 37 cases (2.3%) had recurrence among whom 25 cases had recurrence within 3 weeks. The incidences of subdural effusion and (or) empyema, brain abscess and ependymitis in the etiology confirmed group were significantly higher than those in the clinically diagnosed group (26.2% (207/790) vs. 17.3% (142/820), 13.0% (103/790) vs. 9.1% (75/820), 4.6% (36/790) vs. 2.7% (22/820), χ²=18.71, 6.20, 4.07, all P<0.05), but there was no significant difference in the unfavorable outcomes, mortility, and recurrence between these 2 groups (all P>0.05). Conclusions: The onset age of ABM in children is usually within 1 year of age, especially <3 months. The common pathogens in infants <3 months of age are Escherichia coli and Streptococcus agalactiae, and the dominant pathogen in infant ≥3 months is Streptococcus pneumoniae. Subdural effusion and (or) empyema and hydrocephalus are common complications. ABM should not be excluded even if CSF white blood cell counts is within normal range. Standardized bacteriological examination should be paid more attention to increase the pathogenic detection rate. Non-culture CSF detection methods may facilitate the pathogenic diagnosis.

[Analysis of the effectiveness of coracoid osteotomy and concentric coaxial reconstruction of the glenoid cavity in the treatment of recurrent anterior dislocation of the shoulder joint]

Objective: To investigate the clinical efficacy of the modified Latarjet procedure in the treatment of recurrent anterior subluxation of the shoulder by "coaxial co-arc" reconstruction of the glenoid cavity. Methods: The clinical data of 103 cases (106 shoulders) of recurrent anterior dislocation of the shoulder admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of the Army Military Medical University from January 2005 to December 2020 were retrospectively studied. Out of these cases, 84 were males and 19 were females; 31 with left-sided injuries while 75 with right-sided injuries, with a mean age of (29.4±11.5) years (16-61 years). The preoperative anterior fear test was positive, and a modified Latarjet procedure was used to reconstruct the shoulder glenoid defect through a "coaxial co-arc". The Rowe score, simple shoulder test (SST) score, and Visual analogue scale (VAS) score of pain were used to assess the shoulder's function. Parameters such as the postoperative shoulder recurrent dislocation rate, shoulder body external rotation angle, and subscapularis muscle strength changes were recorded postoperatively. Moreover, radiographs and CT scans were used to check for the incidence of osteoarthritis (Samson-Prieto score). Results: After a mean follow-up of 9.0 years (1 to 16 years), bony healing occurred 3 to 6 months postoperatively. The Rowe score improved from 40.4±6.5 preoperatively to 93.2±2.5 (P<0.001), the SST score improved from 5.2±1.3 preoperatively to 10.1±1.5 (P<0.001), and the VAS pain score decreased from 3.5±1.9 preoperatively to 1.1±1.2 (P<0.001) at the final follow-up. The angle of lateral external rotation of the shoulder joint was 58.8°±15.6° preoperatively and 57.6°±14.5° postoperatively with no statistically significant difference (P>0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the measurement of subscapularis muscle strength between the healthy side and the affected side (P>0.05). In 89.6% of patients after surgery, coaxial co-arc reconstruction of the shoulder glenoid was obtained, and the shoulder glenoid defect and postoperative inclusion angle were significantly improved compared with those before surgery (P<0.001). Postoperatively, new-onset osteoarthritis developed in 7 cases (7/98), arthritis progressed in 2 cases (2/8), incisional healing was poor in 2 cases (2/98), and revision surgery was performed in 2 cases (2/98) due to bone mass detachment. Conclusion: Coracoid osteotomy and concentric coaxial reconstruction of the glenoid cavity elicits adequate good clinical efficacy for cases of recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation, with low recurrence rates, low revision rates and low incidence of osteoarthritis.

[LIM-domain binding protein 2 regulated by m6A modification inhibits lung adenocarcinoma cell proliferation in vitro]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role and expression pattern of LIM-domain binding protein 2 (LDB2) in lung adenocarcinoma.

OBJECTIVE

We studied the expression pattern of LDB2 in lung adenocarcinoma based on data from the online databases TCGA, GEO and CPTAC, and the results were verified in lung adenocarcinoma tissues and cells using immunohistochemistry, qRT-PCR and Western blotting. The relationship between LDB2 and the prognosis of patients with lung adenocarcinoma was analyzed using GEPIA and GEO databases. We further analyzed the role of LDB2 in regulating cell behaviors in a H1299 cell model over-expressing LDB2 using cell counting, soft agar colony forming assay and flow cytometry. The m⁶A binding sites on LDB2 were confirmed by bioinformatics analysis and MeRIP-qPCR assays. The effect of YTHDC2 on LDB2 was examined using qRT-PCR and Western blotting, and the binding of YTHDC2 to the transcript of LDB2 was verified with RIP-qPCR assays. Dual luciferase reporter assay was performed to verify YTHDC2 functioning via m⁶A sites.

OBJECTIVE

LDB2 expression was significantly decreased in lung adenocarcinoma in comparison with normal tissues based on data from TCGA, GEPIA and CPTAC, and the same results were obtained from 80 lung adenocarcinoma tissues and 17 adjacent normal tissues. Similarly, LDB2 expression was decreased in lung adenocarcinoma cells as compared with 16HBE cells. The data from Prognoscan and GEPIA suggested that a high LDB2 expression was positively correlated with a more favorable outcome of lung adenocarcinoma patients. LDB2-overexpressing H1299 cells showed a significant inhibition of proliferative activity with cell cycle arrest in S phage. Bioinformatics analysis and MeRIP-qPCR assay confirmed the presence of m⁶A sites on LDB2. The m⁶A reader YTHDC2 was positively related with LDB2 in lung adenocarcinoma based on data from GEPIA (r=0.22). Overexpression YTHDC2 significantly enhanced LDB2 expression in H1299 cells by about 19.35 folds. Dual luciferase reporter assay showed that YTHDC2 enhanced the promoter activity in the wild-type group but not in deletion group.

OBJECTIVE

LDB2 expression can be up-regulated by m⁶A reader YTHDC2 in lung adenocarcinoma to inhibit the proliferation of the tumor cells in vitro.

MiR-24 inhibits oligodendrocyte precursor cell differentiation after spinal injury by targeting adrenal medulla

OBJECTIVE

Oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) differentiate into oligodendrocytes (OLs) that provide nutrients to neurons. Adrenal medulla is (ADM) involved in nerve damage. MiR-24 participates in various diseases. However, the regulation and mechanism of miR-24 in oligodendrocyte precursor cell differentiation after spinal injury is unclear. MATERIALS  AND METHODS: Wistar rats were divided into sham operation group and model group. Real Time-PCR detects miR-24, PDGFRa and NG2 and MBP expression. OPC cells were cultured and divided into control group, miR-24 group, and si-miR-24 group followed by analysis of miR-24 expression by Real Time-PCR, expression of PDGFRa, NG2 and MBP by Western blot, as well as ADM content and secretion of IL-6 and TNF-α by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

Expression of miR-24, PDGFRa, and NG2 was increased in the model group and MBP and ADM expression was decreased with increased secretion of IL-6 and TNF-α. Compared with control group, the difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). Upregulation of miR-24 promoted the expression of PDGFRa and NG2, decreased MBP and ADM level, and increased IL-6 and TNF-α secretion. Compared with control group, the difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). Downregulation of miR-24 reversed the above changes, and the difference was statistically significant (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

MiR-24 expression is increased in spinal injury. Upregulation of miR-24 expression reduces adrenal medulla expression and inhibits oligodendrocyte precursor cell differentiation.

Chemopreventive effect of galangin against benzo(a)pyrene-induced stomach tumorigenesis through modulating aryl hydrocarbon receptor in Swiss albino mice

The present study was aimed to evaluate the chemopreventive potential of galangin against benzo(a)pyrene (BaP)-induced stomach carcinogenesis in Swiss albino mice. Stomach cancer was induced in experimental mice using BaP oral administration. The mice were treated with galangin (10 mg/kg b.wt.) before and during BaP administration. Oral administration of galangin at a dose of 10 mg/kg b.wt. significantly (p < 0.05) prevented the tumor incidence, tumor volume in the experimental animals. Further, galangin pretreatment prevents BaP-induced lipid peroxidation and restores BaP-mediated loss of cellular antioxidants status. It has also been found that galangin prevents BaP-induced activation of phase I detoxification enzymes. Furthermore, galangin pretreatment prevented the BaP-induced overexpression of cytochrome P450s isoform genes (CYP1A1, CYP1B1), aryl hydrocarbon receptor system (AhR, ARNT), transcriptional activators (CBP/p300, NF-kB), tumor growth factors, proto-oncogenes, invasion markers (TGFB, SRC-1, MYC, iNOS, MMP2, MMP9) and Phase II metabolic isoenzyme genes (GST) in the stomach tissue homogenate when compared to the control groups. The western blot results confirm that galangin (10 mg/kg. b.wt.) treatment significantly prevented the BaP-mediated expression of ArR, ARNT, and CYP1A1 proteins in the mouse stomach tissue. Therefore, the present results confirm that galangin prevents BaP-induced stomach carcinogenesis probably through modulating ArR and ARNT expression in the experimental mice.

Influence of family history on risk of second primary cancers and survival in patients with squamous cell skin cancer

BACKGROUND

Patients with squamous cell skin cancer (SCC) have an excellent prognosis but second primary cancers (SPCs) weaken survival prospects. Family history is a known risk factor for cancer but whether it is a risk factor for SPC in patients with SCC is not known.

OBJECTIVES

To quantify the risk of family history on SPCs in patients with SCC and estimate survival probabilities of patients with SPCs depending on family history.

METHODS

With 13 945 histologically verified SCCs, relative risks (RRs) were estimated for family history using a generalized regression model. For survival analysis, hazard ratios (HRs) were assessed using a multivariable Cox proportional-hazards model.

RESULTS

Family history of invasive SCC increased risk of second invasive SCC [RR = 42·92, 95% confidence interval (CI) 33·69-50·32] compared with risk without family history (RR 19·12, 95% CI 17·88-21·08). Family history of any nonskin cancer in invasive SCC increased risk of the same cancers to be diagnosed as SPC (RRF_H = 1·48, 95% CI 1·35-1·61 vs. RR_{no FH} = 1·40, 95% CI 1·32-1·48); significant increases were observed for seven different nonskin cancers. Most results were replicated for in situ SCC. SPC was deleterious for survival irrespective of family history; HR for patients with SPC was 4·28 (95% CI 3·83-4·72) vs. those without SPC (1·04).

CONCLUSIONS

Family history of nonskin cancer was associated with approximately a doubling of risk for SPCs in patients with SCC. SPC increases the death rate in patients with SCC 3-4 times, irrespective of family history. Taking family history into account at SCC diagnosis may help prevention or early detection of SPCs. What's already known about this topic? Second primary cancers (SPCs) are frequently diagnosed in patients with invasive and in situ squamous cell carcinoma (SCC); some epidemiological studies suggest a link to immune dysfunction. Family history of cancer is a risk factor for practically all first primary cancers but whether it also influences risk of SPCs in patients with SCC is not known. The possible influence of family history on survival in patients with SCC remains to be established. Linked Comment: Youlden and Baade. Br J Dermatol 2020; 183:414-415.

Proof of concept: hip joint damage occurs at the zone of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) in an experimental FAI sheep model

OBJECTIVE

In ovine hips chondrolabral damage as seen in cam-type femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) can be induced via an intertrochanteric varus osteotomy. However, it is yet to proven whether the observed cartilage damage is caused by a dynamic cam type impingement. Thus we asked, (1) whether actual cartilage damage observed after FAI induction in ovine hips occurs at the predicted, computed zone of FAI; (2) whether the extent of cartilage damage increases with ambulation time in this animal model?

DESIGN

In this experimental, controlled, comparative study 20 sheep underwent unilateral FAI induction through an intertrochanteric varus osteotomy. Preoperatively sheep underwent computed tomography to generate three-dimensional models of the osseous pelvis and femur. The models were used to predict impingement zones before and after simulated varus osteotomy using range of motion (ROM) analysis. Sheep were sacrificed after 14-40 weeks of ambulation. At sacrifice cartilage was inspected and (1) location of actual damage and computed impingement zones were compared; (2) Cartilage damage was compared between short- and long ambulation groups.

RESULTS

(1) The average location and the extent of peripheral and central cartilage lesions did not differ with the computed impingement zones (all P > 0.05). (2) Grades of central, posterior cartilage damage were more severe in the long-compared to the short ambulation group (2.2 ± 1.8 vs 0.4 ± 0.5; P = 0.030).

CONCLUSIONS

In this experimental ovine FAI model the surgical induction of an osseous impingement conflict between the femur and acetabulum causes cartilage damage at the zone of simulated FAI.

Liver kinase B1 suppresses the metastasis and angiogenesis of lung cancer: involvement of the Shh signaling pathway

Liver kinase B1 (LKB1) is revealed to have a close relationship with cancers. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to reveal the mechanism through which LKB1 performed its role in lung cancer. LKB1 shRNA and overexpression plasmid were employed to investigate the role of LKB1 in lung cancer in vitro and in vivo. The involvement of Shh signaling pathway was assessed by western blot. Silence of LKB1 promoted, while overexpression of LKB1 inhibited the migration, invasion and angiogenesis of lung cancer cells. Further study showed that Shh signaling pathway was suppressed by LKB1. Cyclopamine, a Shh signaling pathway inhibitor, reduced the effects of LKB1 silence, indicating that LKB1 inhibits the migration, invasion and angiogenesis through suppressing the Shh signaling pathway. In vivo study also showed that Shh signaling pathway was involved in the modulation of LKB1 on the metastasis and angiogenesis of lung cancer. Our study demonstrates that LKB1 inhibits the metastasis and angiogenesis of lung cancer through suppressing the Shh signaling pathway.

Implication of lymph node staging in migration and different treatment strategies for stage T2N0M0 and T1N1M0 resected gastric cancer: a SEER population analysis

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to explore the differences between stage T2N0M0 and stage T1N1M0 gastric cancer (GC) and to identify the necessity of adjuvant treatment (AT) for these stages.

METHODS

Between years 2004 and 2015, 1971 stage IB GC patients who underwent radical surgery were recruited using the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database. We conducted univariate/multivariate analyses, the propensity score matching and evaluated gastric cancer-specific survival (GCSS) and overall survival (OS) with the log-rank test.

RESULTS

T1N1M0 had a significantly worse survival than T2N0M0 in both GCSS and OS before and after the propensity score matching. Examined lymph nodes (ELN) ≤ 15 and T1N1M0 were independent risk factors for worse GCSS and OS in stage IB GC. The absence of adjuvant chemotherapy (CT) was an independent risk factor for worse GCSS and OS in T1N1M0 but not in T2N0M0. AT demonstrated similar GCSS and OS with surgery alone (SA) for T2N0M0 but better survival for T1N1M0. Compared to CT and adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) group, SA demonstrated significantly worse GCSS and OS for T1N1M0. There was no significant difference between CT and CRT in both T2N0M0 and T1N1M0 stages. T2N0M0 had a better survival than T1N1M0 in ELN ≤ 15 subgroup. However, similar survival was demonstrated in ELN > 15 subgroup.

CONCLUSIONS

T2N0M0 GC has a better survival rate than T1N1M0 GC when ELN are ≤ 15. Moreover, T2N0M0 GC may not benefit from AT. T1N1M0 GC requires CT but not adjuvant radiotherapy.

Detection of viable Escherichia coli in environmental water using combined propidium monoazide staining and quantitative PCR

The objectives of this study were to specifically detect viable Escherichia coli in environmental waters by targeting the ycjM gene in a propidium monoazide (PMA)-qPCR assay. PMA is a viability dye that can inhibit the amplification of DNA from dead cells, thus allowing for the detection and quantification of only viable cells. The ycjM primers were used to target E. coli that directly originated from the feces of warm blooded animals, and avoid false positive detection caused by "naturalized" E. coli that can exist in the environment. In this study, tap water and environmental waters were inoculated with E. coli isolated from animal feces. Following cell collection, samples were treated with PMA, followed by DNA isolation and qPCR detection. For pure cultures, 5 μM PMA with a 10-min light exposure was efficient at inhibiting the amplification of DNA from 10⁵ CFU/mL dead E. coli cells, with a detection limit of 10² CFU/100 mL viable cells. For tap and environmental waters collected in the winter, a 10 μM PMA was required and as low as 10³ CFU/100 mL viable cells could be detected in the presence of 10⁵ CFU/100 mL dead cells. For water samples collected during the summer, 10² CFU/10 mL viable cells could be detected in the presence of 10⁴ CFU/10 mL dead cells, after a 20 μM PMA treatment. No significant differences were found among the PMA-qPCR assay and two other standard culture-based methods for detection of viable E. coli in environmental water. In conclusion, with proper pretreatment of environmental water samples, this PMA-qPCR assay that targets the ycjM gene could quantify viable E. coli cells that directly come from the feces of warm-blooded animals, and therefore effectively and accurately indicate the quality of environmental water.

A novel diagnostic algorithm for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia

INTRODUCTION

While diagnostic algorithm using PF4-heparin enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) optical density (OD), and heparin neutralization assay (HNA), or 4T score have been proposed to replace serotonin-release assay (SRA) for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), their performance against SRA is unclear. In this study, we proposed and validated the performance of a new algorithm combining PF4-heparin ELISA optical density (OD), HNA and 4T score against SRA for HIT diagnosis.

METHODS

Heparin neutralization assays were performed on specimens submitted for HIT testing with positive PF4-heparin ELISA from December 2015 to September 2017, which were separated into a "training" and a "validation" data set. 4T scores were calculated for ELISA positive cases.

RESULTS

A total of 123 consecutive unique patient samples had positive PF4-heparin ELISA with also HNA data, SRA data, and 4T scores available. Compared to SRA, a "laboratory criteria" (ELISA OD ≥ 1.4 and HNA ≥ 70%) had a sensitivity of 88% (14/16) and specificity of 91% (42/46), and a "combined criteria" (4T score = 8, or 4T score = 6 or 7 and ELISA OD ≥ 1.0, or 4T score = 4 or 5 and ELISA OD ≥ 2.0) had a sensitivity of 75% (12/16) and specificity of 98% (45/46) in the training data set. Laboratory and combined criteria had 90% (56/62) concordance rate. Importantly, for these concordant cases, the diagnostic specificity is 100% (46/46). Based on the data, a novel diagnostic algorithm combining these 2 criteria was proposed and validated prospectively.

CONCLUSION

A novel algorithm has high diagnostic accuracy and potentially could eliminate the need for SRA testing in at least 90% patients with suspected HIT.

Pharmacokinetics of cefquinome in crucian carp (Carassius auratus gibelio) after oral, intramuscular, intraperitoneal, and bath administration

The pharmacokinetics (PK) of cefquinome (CEQ) was studied in crucian carp (Carassius auratus gibelio) after single oral, intramuscular (i.m.), and intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration at a dose of 10 mg/kg body weight and following incubation in a 5 mg/L bath for 5 hr at 25°C. The plasma concentration of CEQ was determined using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). PK parameters were calculated based on mean CEQ concentration using WinNonlin 6.1 software. The disposition of CEQ following oral, i.m., or i.p. administration was best described by a two-compartment open model with first-order absorption. After oral, i.m., and i.p. administration, the maximum plasma concentration (C_max ) values were 1.52, 40.53, and 67.87 μg/ml obtained at 0.25, 0.23, and 0.35 hr, respectively, while the elimination half-life (T_1/2β ) values were 4.68, 7.39, and 6.88 hr, respectively; the area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) values were 8.61, 339.11, and 495.06 μg hr/ml, respectively. No CEQ was detected in the plasma after bath incubation. Therapeutic blood concentrations of CEQ can be achieved in the crucian carp following i.m. and i.p. administration at a dosage of 10 mg/kg once every 2 days.

Advancing porphyrin's biomedical utility via supramolecular chemistry

Porphyrins are organic heterocyclic macrocycles with photophysical properties well-suited for clinical phototherapy and cancer imaging. However, their wider application in the clinical management of disease is barred by poor aqueous solubility, bioavailability, tumour accumulation and skin phototoxicity. These limitations instigated the development of supramolecular platforms that improved porphyrin pharmacokinetics and tumour-homing. The supramolecular formulation of porphyrins also facilitates single agent-mediated deeper tissue photoactivation, extended imaging and theranostic multimodality, and synergistic application of multiple therapies. Supramolecular porphyrin structures can overcome additional limitations of porphyrin-mediated photodynamic therapy (PDT), including low depths of tissue penetration that restrict PDT to superficial lesions, inability to treat hypoxic tumours, and incomplete tumour damage. In this review, we discuss the photophysical properties of porphyrins, and overview the clinically-relevant advantages and challenges arising from their incorporation within supramolecular platforms. Specifically, fundamentals underlying the ability of these platforms to ameliorate passive and active porphyrin delivery to tumours, achieve deeper tissue PDT via red-shifted porphyrin Q-bands, energy transfer and sonodynamic effects, and enable new porphyrin-mediated theranostics and synergistic therapeutic capabilities will be explained and exemplified with seminal and cutting-edge in vivo studies.

Strong spin-photon coupling in silicon

Long coherence times of single spins in silicon quantum dots make these systems highly attractive for quantum computation, but how to scale up spin qubit systems remains an open question. As a first step to address this issue, we demonstrate the strong coupling of a single electron spin and a single microwave photon. The electron spin is trapped in a silicon double quantum dot, and the microwave photon is stored in an on-chip high-impedance superconducting resonator. The electric field component of the cavity photon couples directly to the charge dipole of the electron in the double dot, and indirectly to the electron spin, through a strong local magnetic field gradient from a nearby micromagnet. Our results provide a route to realizing large networks of quantum dot-based spin qubit registers.

Correction: Tailored theranostic apolipoprotein E3 porphyrin-lipid nanoparticles target glioblastoma

Correction for ‘Tailored theranostic apolipoprotein E3 porphyrin-lipid nanoparticles target glioblastoma’ by M. A. Rajora et al., Chem. Sci., 2017, DOI: ; 10.1039/c7sc00732a.

Pharmacokinetics of enrofloxacin after oral, intramuscular and bath administration in crucian carp (Carassius auratus gibelio)

The pharmacokinetics of enrofloxacin (ENR) was studied in crucian carp (Carassius auratus gibelio) after single administration by intramuscular (IM) injection and oral gavage (PO) at a dose of 10 mg/kg body weight and by 5 mg/L bath for 5 hr at 25°C. The plasma concentrations of ENR and ciprofloxacin (CIP) were determined by HPLC. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated based on mean ENR or CIP concentrations using WinNonlin 6.1 software. After IM, PO and bath administration, the maximum plasma concentration (C_max ) of 2.29, 3.24 and 0.36 μg/ml was obtained at 4.08, 0.68 and 0 hr, respectively; the elimination half-life (T_1/2β ) was 80.95, 62.17 and 61.15 hr, respectively; the area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) values were 223.46, 162.72 and 14.91 μg hr/ml, respectively. CIP, an active metabolite of enrofloxacin, was detected and measured after all methods of drug administration except bath. It is possible and practical to obtain therapeutic blood concentrations of enrofloxacin in the crucian carp using IM, PO and bath immersion administration.

Tailored theranostic apolipoprotein E3 porphyrin-lipid nanoparticles target glioblastoma

Size-controlled discoidal and cholesteryl oleated-loaded spherical, intrinsically multimodal porphyrin-lipid nanoparticles targeted glioblastoma via apoE3 and LDLR.

The development of curative glioblastoma treatments and tumour-specific contrast agents that can overcome the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and infiltrative tumour morphology remains a challenge. Apolipoprotein E3 (apoE3) is a high density lipoprotein apolipoprotein that chaperones the transcytosis of nanoparticles across the BBB, and displays high-affinity binding with the low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), a cell-surface receptor overexpressed by glioblastoma cells. This LDLR overexpression and apoE3 binding capacity was exploited for the development of glioblastoma-targeted porphyrin-lipid apoE3 lipid nanoparticles (pyE-LNs) with intrinsic theranostic properties. Size-controlled discoidal and cholesteryl oleate (CO)-loaded spherical pyE-LNs were synthesized through the systematic variation of particle composition, which dictated nanoparticle size and morphology. Composition optimization yielded 30 nm pyE-LNs with stable loading of apoE3 and porphyrin-lipid that simultaneously conferred the nanoparticles with glioblastoma targeting and activatable near-infrared fluorescence imaging functionalities. A 4-fold higher uptake of pyE-LNs by LDLR-expressing U87 glioblastomas cells relative to minimally expressing ldlA7 cells was observed in vitro. This uptake was a result of receptor-mediated endocytosis, which could be inhibited through LDL competition and acetylation of particle apoE3 moieties. ApoE3-dependent delivery of pyE-LN to glioblastomas was also demonstrated in orthotopic U87-GFP tumour-bearing animals. Quantification of CO-loaded pyE-LN biodistribution demonstrated successful selective uptake of porphyrin by malignant tissue, with a 4 : 1 tumour : healthy tissue particle specificity. This allowed for the detection of strong, tumour-localized porphyrin fluorescence, which was diminished when apoE3-devoid py-LN particles were administered. Furthermore, this selective uptake yielded cell-specific potent PDT sensitization in vitro, resulting in an 83% reduction in glioblastoma cell viability. These results highlight the promising capacity of pyE-LNs to target porphyrin delivery to glioblastoma tumours for theranostic applications.

Exacerbation of spontaneous autoimmune nephritis following regulatory T cell depletion in B cell lymphoma 2-interacting mediator knock-out mice

Regulatory T cells (Tregs ) have been recognized as central mediators for maintaining peripheral tolerance and limiting autoimmune diseases. The loss of Tregs or their function has been associated with exacerbation of autoimmune disease. However, the temporary loss of Tregs in the chronic spontaneous disease model has not been investigated. In this study, we evaluated the role of Tregs in a novel chronic spontaneous glomerulonephritis model of B cell lymphoma 2-interacting mediator (Bim) knock-out mice by transient depleting Tregs . Bim is a pro-apoptotic member of the B cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) family. Bim knock-out (Bim-/- ) mice fail to delete autoreactive T cells in thymus, leading to chronic spontaneous autoimmune kidney disease. We found that Treg depletion in Bim-/- mice exacerbated the kidney injury with increased proteinuria, impaired kidney function, weight loss and greater histological injury compared with wild-type mice. There was a significant increase in interstitial infiltrate of inflammatory cells, antibody deposition and tubular damage. Furthermore, the serum levels of cytokines interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17α, interferon (IFN)-γ and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α were increased significantly after Treg depletion in Bim-/- mice. This study demonstrates that transient depletion of Tregs leads to enhanced self-reactive T effector cell function followed by exacerbation of kidney disease in the chronic spontaneous kidney disease model of Bim-deficient mice.

In vitro dentin barrier cytotoxicity testing of some dental restorative materials

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the cytotoxicity of four dental restorative materials in three-dimensional (3D) L929 cell cultures using a dentin barrier test.

METHODS

The cytotoxicities of light-cured glass ionomer cement (Vitrebond), total-etching adhesive (GLUMA Bond5), and two self-etching adhesives (GLUMA Self Etch and Single Bond Universal) were evaluated. The permeabilities of human dentin disks with thicknesses of 300, 500, and 1000μm were standardized using a hydraulic device. Test materials and controls were applied to the occlusal side of human dentin disks. The 3D-cell scaffolds were placed beneath the dentin disks. After a 24-h contact with the dentin barrier test device, cell viabilities were measured by performing MTT assays. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) permeabilities of the 300-μm, 500-μm, and 1000-μm dentin disks were 0.626 (0.214), 0.219 (0.0387) and 0.089 (0.028) μlmin^-1cm^-2cm H₂O^-1. Vitrebond was severely cytotoxic, reducing the cell viability to 10% (300-μm disk), 17% (500μm), and 18% (1000μm). GLUMA Bond5 reduced the cell viability to 40% (300μm), 83% (500μm), and 86% (1000μm), showing moderate cytotoxicity (300-μm) and non-cytotoxicity (500-μm and 1000-μm). Single Bond Universal and GLUMA Self Etch did not significantly reduce cell viability, regardless of the dentin thicknesses, which characterized them as non-cytotoxic.

CONCLUSIONS

Cytotoxicity varied with the materials tested and the thicknesses of the dentin disks.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The tested cytotoxicity of materials applied on 300-, 500-, and 1000-μm dentin disks indicates that the clinical use of the test materials (excepting self-etching adhesives) in deep cavities poses a potential risk of damage to the pulp tissues to an extent, depending on the thickness of the remaining dentin.