Inhibition of miR-29a-3p Alleviates Apoptosis of Lens Epithelial Cells via Upregulation of CAND1

PURPOSE

Accumulated evidence has shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) are closely related to the pathogenesis and progression of senile cataracts. Here we investigate the effect of miR-29a-3p in cataractogenesis and determined the potential molecular mechanism involved.

METHODS

In this study, we constructed a selenite cataract model in rats and obtained the miRNAs related to cataracts by whole transcriptome sequencing. To investigate the effect and mechanism of miR-29a-3p on cataracts, we performed several in vivo and in vitro experiments, including CCK8 assay, flow cytometry, luciferase reporter assay, Edu assay, and western blot analysis.

RESULT

Sequencing data showed downregulation of miR-29a-3p in rats with selenite cataracts. Down-regulation of miR-29a-3p could promote lens epithelial cells (SRA01/04) proliferation and inhibit cell apoptosis, and miR-29a-3p silence could inhibit the development of cataracts. Additionally, CAND1 was a direct target gene for miR-29a-3p.

CONCLUSION

These data demonstrate that miR-29a-3p inhibits apoptosis of lens epithelial cells by regulating CAND1, which may be a potential target for senile cataracts.

The burden of vision loss due to cataract in China: findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019

OBJECTIVE

To provide a reference for future policy and measure formulation by conducting a detailed analysis of the burden of vision loss due to cataract by year, age, and gender in China from 1990 to 2019.

METHODS

Data on the prevalence and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) due to cataract in China and neighboring and other G20 countries were extracted from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study to observe the changing trends of vision loss.

RESULTS

The number and rate of all-age prevalence and DALYs for cataract in China increased significantly from 1990 to 2019. The age-standardized DALYs rate witnessed a slowly declining trend by 10.16%. And the age-standardized prevalence increased by 14.35% over the 30-year period. Higher prevalence and DALYs were observed in female population from 1990 through 2019, with little improvement over the decades(all p < 0.001). The disease burden of cataract is higher in middle-aged and elderly people. Blindness accounted for the largest proportion of vision impairment burden caused by cataract in China. The age-standardized prevalence and DALY rate of cataract in China were lower than those in India and Pakistan, but higher than those in Russia, South Korea, North Korea, Singapore, and Japan.

CONCLUSIONS

In the past 30 years, although the age-standardized DALYs rate has decreased slightly in China, the all-age prevalence and DALYs have both increased. This study highlights the importance of reducing cataract burden by providing timely and easily accessible quality care, especially in females and the elderly population.

Transcriptome sequencing and microRNA-mRNA regulatory network construction in the lens from a Na2SeO3-induced Sprague Dawley rat cataract model

BACKGROUND

A sight-threatening, cataract is a common degenerative disease of the ocular lens. This study aimed to explore the regulatory mechanism of age-related cataract (ARC) formation and progression.

METHODS

Cataracts in Sprague Dawley rats were induced by adopting the method that injected selenite subcutaneously in the nape. We performed high-throughput RNA sequencing technology to identify the mRNA and microRNA(miRNA) expression profiles of the capsular membrane of the lens from Na2SeO3-induced and saline-injected Sprague Dawley rats. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were carried out to forecast the regulatory and functional role of mRNAs in cataracts by DAVID and Metascape. The protein-protein interaction(PPI) network of differentially expressed mRNA(DEmRNAs) was built via the STRING. Target miRNAs of hub genes were predicted by miRBD and TargetScan. Furthermore, differentially expressed miRNA(DEmiRNAs) were selected as hub genes' targets, validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR), and a DEmiRNA-DEmRNA regulatory network was constructed via Cytoscape.

RESULT

In total, 329 DEmRNAs including 40 upregulated and 289 downregulated genes were identified. Forty seven DEmiRNAs including 29 upregulated and 18 downregulated miRNAs were detected. The DEmRNAs are involved in lens development, visual perception, and aging-related biological processes. A protein-protein interaction network including 274 node genes was constructed to explore the interactions of DEmRNAs. Furthermore, a DEmiRNA-DEmRNA regulatory network related to cataracts was constructed, including 8 hub DEmRNAs, and 8 key DEmiRNAs which were confirmed by qRT-PCR analysis.

CONCLUSION

We identified several differentially expressed genes and established a miRNA-mRNA-regulated network in a Na2SeO3-induced Sprague Dawley rat cataract model. These results may provide novel insights into the clinical treatment of cataracts, and the hub DEmRNAs and key DEmiRNAs could be potential therapeutic targets for ARC.

CircRNA 06209 inhibits cataract development by sponging miR-6848-5p and regulating ALOX15 expression

Cataract is the leading cause of blindness in the world, and there is a lack of effective treatment drugs. CircRNA plays an important part in a variety of diseases, however, the role of circRNA in cataracts remains largely unknown. In this study, we constructed a cataract model of rats and obtained the circRNAs related to cataracts by whole transcriptome sequencing and circRNA-mRNA co-expression network. To investigate the effect and mechanism of circRNA 06209 on cataracts, we performed several in vivo and in vitro experiments, including CCK8 assay, flow cytometry, dual luciferase reporter assay, RIP assay, actinomycin D assay, and Western blot analysis. We identify that a necroptosis-related circRNA, circRNA 06209, is down-regulated in cataracts. Vitro experiments showed that up-regulation of circRNA 06209 could promote cell proliferation and inhibit cell apoptosis. Vivo experiments revealed that circRNA 06209 overexpression could inhibit the development of cataracts. Mechanistically, circRNA 06209 acts as a miRNA sponge and competitively binds to miR-6848-5p to curb the inhibitory effect of miR-6848-5p on ALOX15, thereby affecting cell viability and apoptosis. This study found that circRNA 06209 plays a critical part in inhibiting cataracts through the miR-6848-5p/ALOX15 pathway, suggesting that circRNA 06209 may be a promising therapeutic target for cataracts.

Global, regional, national burden and gender disparity of cataract: findings from the global burden of disease study 2019

Background

To evaluate the global burden of cataracts by year, age, region, gender, and socioeconomic status using disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and prevalence from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study 2019.

Methods

Global, regional, or national DALY numbers, crude DALY rates, and age-standardized DALY rates caused by cataracts, by year, age, and gender, were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. Socio-demographic Index (SDI) as a comprehensive indicator of the national or regional development status of GBD countries in 2019 was obtained from the GBD official website. Kruskal-Wallis test, linear regression, and Pearson correlation analysis were performed to explore the associations between the health burden with socioeconomic levels, Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test was used to investigate the gender disparity.

Results

From 1990 to 2019, global DALY numbers caused by cataracts rose by 91.2%, crude rates increased by 32.2%, while age-standardized rates fell by 11.0%. Globally, age-standardized prevalence and DALYs rates of cataracts peaked in 2017 and 2000, with the prevalence rate of 1283.53 [95% uncertainty interval (UI) 1134.46–1442.93] and DALYs rate of 94.52 (95% UI 67.09–127.24) per 100,000 population, respectively. The burden was expected to decrease to 1232.33 (95% UI 942.33–1522.33) and 91.52 (95% UI 87.11–95.94) by 2050. Southeast Asia had the highest blindness rate caused by cataracts in terms of age-standardized DALY rates (99.87, 95% UI: 67.18–144.25) in 2019. Gender disparity has existed since 1990, with the female being more heavily impacted. This pattern remained with aging among different stages of vision impairments and varied through GBD super regions. Gender difference (females minus males) of age-standardized DALYs (equation: Y = -53.2*X + 50.0, P < 0.001) and prevalence rates (equation: Y = − 492.8*X + 521.6, P < 0.001) was negatively correlated with SDI in linear regression.

Conclusion

The global health of cataracts is improving but the steady growth in crude DALY rates suggested that health progress does not mean fewer demands for cataracts. Globally, older age, females, and lower socioeconomic status are associated with higher cataract burden. The findings of this study highlight the importance to make gender-sensitive health policies to manage global vision loss caused by cataracts, especially in low SDI regions.

Clinical Efficacy of Posterior Percutaneous Endoscopic Unilateral Laminotomy with Bilateral Decompression for Symptomatic Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy

Objective

To compare the clinical efficacy of posterior percutaneous endoscopic unilateral laminotomy (PPEUL) and anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) in the treatment of single‐segment spondylotic myelopathy (CSM).

Methods

This is a retrospective research, from January 2017 to December 2019, 30 cases were included in the PPEUL group and 32 cases were included in the ACDF group. The operative duration, blood loss, length of stay, complications, Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, visual analogue scale (VAS) score, MacNab classification and imaging data were collected preoperatively, postoperative 1‐week, final follow‐up and statistically analyzed.

Results

The surgery was completed successfully on all patients, and there were no serious complications, such as nerve or spinal cord injury or infection. In the PPEUL and ACDF groups, the operative duration were 56.63 ± 1.40 and 65.21 ± 2.45 min, the intraoperative blood loss were 51.69 ± 3.23 and 50.51 ± 5.48 mL, and the hospitalization duration was 5.75 ± 1.43 and 6.38 ± 2.16 days. The follow‐up period in the PPEUL and ACDF groups was 24.96 ± 1.12 months and 25.65 ± 1.45 months, respectively. There was no significant difference in intraoperative blood loss between the two groups, but the hospitalization and operative durations in the PPEUL group were significantly shorter than those in the ACDF group (P < 0.05). The VAS scores at postoperative 1 week and final follow‐up were significantly improved compared with those before surgery. The JOA scores at postoperative 1 week and final follow‐up were significantly improved compared with those before surgery, but there was no significant difference between the two groups at the last follow‐up. The intervertebral disc height of the adjacent segment at the last follow‐up was significantly lower in the ACDF group than in the PPEUL group (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference between the two groups in the intervertebral disc height of the surgical segment (P > 0.05). The rate of excellent and good results was 90.0% and 87.5%, respectively. Postoperative cervical CT and MRI showed that the spinal canal was fully decompressed and spinal cord compression was relieved.

Conclusion

PPEUL has the advantages of reduced trauma, rapid recovery and remarkable curative efficacy, so it is a new choice for the treatment of CSM.

Exploration of the Function of Ginsenoside RD Attenuates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Lung Injury: A Study of Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation

OBJECTIVE

Ginsenoside Rd (GSRd) displays a variety of pharmacological effects. However, the underlying role in acute lung injury (ALI) is not clear. In this study, the protective effect of GSRd on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI is investigated to explore the potential mechanisms.

METHODS

GSRd-target-ALI-related gene set was constructed. And bioinformatics tools were used to discover the potential mechanism. We observed the survival of subjects for 72 h. In addition, male BALB/c mice were intraperitoneal injected with GSRd (25 and 50 mg/kg) after received one intratracheal instillation of LPS. Inflammatory changes, oxidative stress, and phosphorylation were assessed to study the biological effects.

RESULTS

A total of 245 interaction genes were collected. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were enriched in immune-inflammatory system. Among them, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway was the highest-ranked pathway of inflammatory response. In vivo study, it was found that GSRd improved survival in endotoxemic mice and inhibited the major characteristic of ALI. And the p-PI3K and p-Akt expression was significantly decreased by GSRd treatment.

CONCLUSION

GSRd could protect mice against LPS-induced ALI effectively by inhibiting the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway.

Zc3h12d, a Novel of Hypomethylated and Immune-Related for Prognostic Marker of Lung Adenocarcinoma

Background

Zc3h12d is a negative regulator which plays a crucial role in immune modulation. However, the role of zc3h12d in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains unclear. We aim to explore the prognostic of zc3h12d and investigate the relationship between zc3h12d expression and immune infiltration in LUAD.

Methods

TIMER site was used to analyze the expression of zc3h12d in LUAD. The zc3h12d protein levels in patient tissue samples were detected by immunohistochemistry staining assays. Meanwhile, based on UALCAN database and samples' data from our cohort, we explored the relationship of clinicopathological features and zc3h12d expression to determine the clinical effect of zc3h12d in LUAD. Several databases including GEPIA, Kaplan-Meier plotter and our samples' data were used to explore the prognostic value of zc3h12d in LUAD. Cox regression analysis was established to further evaluate the prognostic value of zc3h12d in LUAD. In addition, zc3h12d promoter methylation was analyzed by UALCAN database. Genetic alteration analysis was observed in the cBioPortal web. GO and KEGG analyses were conducted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Finally, the correlation between zc3h12d and tumor-infiltrating immune cells in LUAD was investigated by TIMER database. The B cells level was investigated by flow cytometry analysis of peripheral blood from our LUAD cohort.

Results

Zc3h12d expression was significantly higher in LUAD, compared with adjacent normal tissues. The clinical data from the UALCAN database demonstrated that zc3h12d expression was closely related with cancer stage and nodal metastasis. However, patient sample detection revealed that zc3h12d expression was closely related to pathological N (p = 0.0431) and grade (p = 0.004). Moreover, low zc3h12d expression was associated with poorer overall survival in LUAD. We analyzed the methylation level of zc3h12d in LUAD and found that the methylation levels of zc3h12d promoter in LUAD were significantly reduced. In addition, zc3h12d genetic alterations, including deep deletion, could be found in LUAD. GO and KEGG pathway analysis results indicated that zc3h12d has a certain value in immune infiltration. We investigated the expression of zc3h12d in tumor-immune interactions. It was found that zc3h12d might be associated with the immune infiltration and markers of infiltrating immune cells of LUAD. The results of patient sample detection confirmed that B cells level was significantly lower in the patients with low zc3h12d expression than those in the patients with high zc3h12d expression.

Conclusion

zc3h12d might be considered as a potential biomarker for determining prognosis and immune-related therapeutic target in LUAD.

Percutaneous Endoscopic Unilateral Laminotomy and Bilateral Decompression for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

To introduce a new surgery, percutaneous endoscopic unilateral laminotomy and bilateral decompression (Endo-ULBD) using visual trepan, and investigate its efficacy and safety in elderly patients with lumbar spinal stenosis. In our retrospective study, a total of 69 patients were enrolled between March 2018 and September 2018; 31 patients were treated with Endo-ULBD and 38 patients were treated with posterior lumbar interbody fusion surgery (PLIF). The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and hospitalization duration were compared between the two groups. A visual analog scale (VAS) was used to evaluate the degree of pain. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) were used to evaluate lumbar function and quality of life, respectively. Lumbar X-ray, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed postoperatively at different time points. MacNab's outcome assessment and perioperative complications were also documented. The surgeon completed all surgeries successfully, and all 69 patients were followed up. The operative time of the Endo-ULBD group was 60.68 ± 0.47 min, while that of the PLIF group was 120.23 ± 10.24 min. The operative time of the Endo-ULBD group was shorter than that of the PLIF group, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). The volume of intraoperative blood loss was 47.25 ± 0.43 mL in the Endo-ULBD group and 256.90 ± 20.83 mL in the PILF group (P < 0.001). The length of hospital stay in the Endo-ULBD group was 5.12 ± 1.60 days and that in the PILF group was 10.54 ± 1.82 days (P < 0.001). The VAS scores at postoperative 1 day, 3 months, 6 months, final follow-up (Endo-ULBD: 6.58 ± 0.65, 4.55 ± 0.54, 2.78 ± 0.24, 1.31 ± 0.78; PLIF: 7.19 ± 1.14, 4.80 ± 0.13, 2.71 ± 0.83, 1.29 ± 0.56) were significantly improved compared with those before surgery (Endo-ULBD: 8.63 ± 0.37; PLIF: 8.31 ± 1.34). The ODI and EQ-5D scores of lumbar function and quality of life at each time point after surgery (Endo-ULBD ODI: 30.29% ± 0.47%, 23.35% ± 0.95%, 19.45% ± 0.81%, 10.84% ± 0.36%; EQ-5D: 0.38 ± 0.15, 0.45 ± 0.17, 0.63 ± 0.14, 0.71 ± 0.20; PLIF ODI: 33.56% ± 1.58%, 25.69% ± 2.69%, 20.01% ± 1.49%, 10.72% ± 0.29%; EQ-5D: 0.33 ± 0.03, 0.39 ± 0.05, 0.62 ± 0.07, 0.72 ± 0.10) were significantly improved compared with those before surgery (Endo-ULBD: 44.56 ± 1.32, 0.33 ± 0.07; PLIF: 43.79 ± 1.91, 0.31 ± 0.09, respectively), with statistically significant differences (P < 0.05); however, there was no significant difference between the two groups at the last follow-up (P > 0.05). At the last follow-up, the excellent and good efficacy rate was 90.3% (28/31) in the Endo-ULBD group and 89.4% (34/38) in the PILF group (χ² = 0.089, P = 0.993). No mortality, irreversible nerve injury, or even paralysis occurred in either group. Endo-ULBD for lumbar spinal stenosis has the advantages of less trauma, a shortened operation time, and rapid recovery and is an effective alternative for the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis. Strict surgical indications, reasonable surgical plans, and experienced surgeons are important factors to ensure safety and satisfactory postoperative efficacy.

Early Clinical Evaluation of Percutaneous Full-endoscopic Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion with Pedicle Screw Insertion for Treating Degenerative Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Objective

To compare the clinical efficacy of percutaneous full‐endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (Endo‐TLIF) with percutaneous pedicle screws (PPSs) performed by using a visualization system with that of minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS‐TLIF) for the treatment of degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS).

Methods

From June 2017 to May 2018, the data of a total of 78 patients who met the selection criteria were retrospectively reviewed and were divided into the Endo‐TLIF group (40 cases) and the MIS‐TLIF group (38 cases) according to the surgical method used. The visual analog scale (VAS) and the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scale were administered preoperatively and at the 1‐week, 3‐month, and 1–2‐year follow‐ups. The fusion rate and major complications, including revision, were also recorded.

Results

All the patients were followed up for 24 to 34 months, with an average follow‐up of 30.7 months. The intraoperative blood loss and length of hospital stay for the Endo‐TLIF group (60.56 ± 0.36 mL, 8.12 ± 0.92 days, respectively) were statistically significantly lower than those for the MIS‐TLIF group (65.47 ± 0.91 mL, 9.66 ± 1.34 days, respectively) (P < 0.05). The VAS and JOA scores of the patients in the two groups at postoperative 1 week, 3 months, 1 year, 2 years (Endo‐TLIF VAS: 4.16 ± 0.92, 3.72 ± 1.54, 1.32 ± 0.45, 1.29 ± 0.34; JOA:16.71 ± 0.99, 19.86 ± 0.24, 24.91 ± 0.97, 25.88 ± 0.52; MIS‐TLIF VAS: 4.17 ± 1.41, 2.98 ± 0.91, 1.54 ± 0.32, 1.33 ± 0.18; JOA: 16.67 ± 0.67, 19.58 ± 0.65, 25.33 ± 0.73, 25.69 ± 0.33) were statistically significantly improved from the preoperative scores (Endo‐TLIF: 8.45 ± 1.44, 14.36 ± 0.56; MIS‐TLIF: 8.11 ± 0.93, 14.45 ± 0.34, respectively) (P < 0.01). The VAS and JOA scores of the Endo‐TLIF group were statistically significantly better than those of the MIS‐TLIF group at 3 months and 1 year after surgery (P < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in the scores between the two groups at any of the other time points (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference in the intervertebral altitude between the two groups at the 3‐month (11.36 ± 0.23, 11.21 ± 0.42, respectively) or final follow‐up (10.88 ± 0.64, 10.81 ± 0.39, respectively) (P > 0.05). Dural tears, cerebrospinal fluid leakage, infection, and neurologic injury did not occur. Both groups showed good intervertebral fusion at the last follow‐up. The intervertebral fusion rate was 97.5% (39/40) in the Endo‐TLIF group and 94.7% (36/38) in the MIS‐TLIF group, with no statistically significant difference between the two groups (χ² = 0.118, P = 0.731). At the final follow‐up, the modified MacNab's criteria were 92.5% and 89.5% between the two groups.

Conclusion

Endo‐TLIF with percutaneous pedicle screws (PPS) performed by using a visualization system for lumbar degenerative disease may be regarded as an efficient alternative surgery for degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis. It is a safe and minimally invasive way to perform this surgery and has shown satisfactory clinical outcomes.

Lentinan-functionalized Selenium Nanoparticles target Tumor Cell Mitochondria via TLR4/TRAF3/MFN1 pathway

Rationale: Malignant ascites caused by cancer cells results in poor prognosis and short average survival time. No effective treatment is currently available for malignant ascites. In this study, the effects of lentinan (LNT)-functionalized selenium nanoparticles (Selene) on malignant ascites were evaluated. Furthermore, the mechanism of Selene targeting mitochondria of tumor cells were also investigated.

Methods: Selene were synthesized and characterized by TEM, AFM and particle size analysis. The OVCAR-3 and EAC cells induced ascites models were used to evaluate the effects of Selene on malignant ascites. Proteomic analysis, immunofluorescence, TEM and ICP-MS were used to determine the location of Selene in tumor cells. Mitochondrial membrane potential, ROS, ATP content, and caspase-1/3 activity were detected to evaluate the effect of Selene on mitochondrial function and cell apoptosis. Immunofluorescence, Co-IP, pull-down, duolink, Western blot, and FPLC were used to investigate the pathway of Selene targeting mitochondria.

Results: Selene could effectively inhibit ascites induced by OVCAR-3 and EAC cells. Selene was mainly located in the mitochondria of tumor cells and induced apoptosis of tumor cells. The LNT in Selene was involved in caveolae-mediated endocytosis through the interaction between toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) and caveolin 1 (CAV1). Furthermore, the Selene in the endocytic vesicles could enter the mitochondria via the mitochondrial membrane fusion pathway, which was mediated by TLR4/TNF receptor associated factor 3 (TRAF3)/mitofusin-1 (MFN1) protein complex.

Conclusion: Selene is a candidate anticancer drug for the treatment of malignant ascites. And TLR4/TRAF3/MFN1 may be a specific nano-drug delivery pathway that could target the mitochondria.

Targeted Drug-Loaded Chemical Probe Staining Assay to Predict Therapy Response and Function as an Independent Pathological Marker

Multi-targeted kinase inhibitors, such as sorafenib, have been used in various malignancies, but their efficacy in clinical applications varies among individuals and lacks pretherapeutic prediction measures. We applied the concept of “click chemistry” to pathological staining and established a drug-loaded probe staining assay. We stained the cells and different types of pathological sections and demonstrated that the assay was reliable. We further verified in cells, cell-derived xenograft model, and clinical level that the staining intensity of the probe could reflect drug sensitivity. The stained samples from 300 patients who suffered from hepatocellular carcinoma and used the sorafenib probe also indicated that staining intensity was closely related to clinical information and could be used as an independent marker without undergoing sorafenib therapy for prognosis. This assay provided new ideas for multi-target drug clinical trials, pre-medication prediction, and pathological research.

•

The assay could be used for the rapid sensitivity detection of multi-target drugs

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The assay could serve as an auxiliary technology for NGS and PDX

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Sorafenib had multiple unknown primary contribution targets

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Drug-probe staining could be used as an independent diagnostic and prognostic marker

Derepression of co-silenced tumor suppressor genes by nanoparticle-loaded circular ssDNA reduces tumor malignancy

The co-silencing of multiple tumor suppressor genes can lead to escalated malignancy in cancer cells. Given the limited efficacy of anticancer therapies targeting single tumor suppressor genes, we developed small circular single-stranded DNA (CSSD) that can up-regulate the expression of co-silenced tumor suppressor genes by sequestering microRNAs (miRNAs) that negatively regulate these genes. We found that cancer patients with low tumor expression of the tumor suppressor genes KLF17, CDH1, and LASS2 had shortened survival times. The up-regulation of these genes upon transfection of artificial CSSD-9 inhibited tumor proliferation and metastasis and promoted apoptosis in vitro as well as in ex vivo and patient-derived xenograft models. In addition, CSSD is more stable and effective than current miRNA inhibitors, and transfecting CSSDs via nanoparticles substantially improved delivery efficiency. The use of a single CSSD can promote the inhibition of multiple tumor suppressor genes. This study provides evidence for the possibility of using CSSDs as therapeutic miRNA inhibitors to target the co-silencing of multiple tumor suppressor genes.

Difference Analysis Based on 16S rRNA Sequencing of Different Soil Bacterial Communities

Abstract

Objective To study the structure and differences of bacterial communities in different soils, and to explore the effectiveness of 16S rRNA sequencing in identification of different soil. Methods Soil samples from 7 places in Shanghai were collected, then bacterial genomic DNA were extracted from them. The fragments of hypervariable region from 16S rRNA sequences were sequenced with high-throughput sequencing techniques. The results were quantified or visualized with bioinformatics software. The differences in diversity and abundance among the three kinds of bacterial communities in soil samples from grassland, forests and beaches were compared and analyzed. Results The statistical differences that existed among the alpha diversity indexes of bacterial communities in soil samples of grassland, forests and beaches had statistical significance. The relative abundance and diversity of bacterial communities in these three kinds of soil were significantly different. Grassland soil had higher Acidobacteria abundance, forest soil had higher Proteobacteria abundance, beach soil had higher Actinobacteria abundance. However, the differences in soil bacterial communities in artificial grasslands, natural grasslands and industrial district grasslands did not have statistical significance. Conclusion 16S rRNA sequencing can effectively distinguish different soils. This method may be able to provide clues for first crime scene inference in criminal cases.

YY1 Complex Promotes Quaking Expression via Super-Enhancer Binding during EMT of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Quaking (QKI) is an alternative splicing factor that can regulate circRNA formation in the progression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition, but the mechanism remains unclear. High expression of QKI is correlated with short survival time, metastasis, and high clinical stage and pathology grade in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here we report that transcription of the QKI gene was activated by the Yin-Yang 1 (YY1)/p65/p300 complex, in which YY1 bound to the super-enhancer and promoter of QKI, p65 combined with the promoter, and p300 served as a mediator to maintain the stability of the complex. This YY1/p65/p300 complex increased QKI expression to promote the malignancy of HCC as well as an increased circRNA formation in vitro and in vivo. Hyperoside is one of several plant-derived flavonol glycoside compounds. Through virtual screening and antitumor activity analysis, we found that hyperoside inhibited QKI expression by targeting the YY1/p65/p300 complex. Overall, our study suggests that the regulatory mechanism of QKI depends on the YY1/p65/p300 complex and that it may serve as a potential target for treatment of HCC. SIGNIFICANCE: These findings identify the YY1/p65/p300 complex as a regulator of QKI expression, identifying several potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of HCC.

Percutaneous full endoscopic posterior decompression of thoracic myelopathy caused by ossification of the ligamentum flavum

PURPOSE

Ossification of ligamentum flavum (OLF) is the leading cause of progressive thoracic myelopathy (TM) in East Asian countries. Surgical decompression is the general treatment for TM. This study investigated the application of percutaneous full endoscopic posterior decompression (PEPD) for the treatment of thoracic OLF.

METHODS

Eighteen patients with TM were treated by PEPD under local anaesthesia. Patients had an average age of 59.1 years and single-level lesions mostly at the lower thoracic vertebrae. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging were used to classify the OLF. The pre- and postoperative neurological statuses were evaluated using the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) sensory and motor score, modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) score and Frankel grade.

RESULTS

OLF for all patients was classed as lateral, extended, and enlarged types without comma and tram track signs. Decompression was completed, and a dome-shaped laminotomy was performed through limited laminectomy and flavectomy. Dural tears in 2 patients were the only observed complication. The average score of ASIA sensory and motor, mJOA, as well as the Frankel grade improved significantly after surgery at an average follow-up time of 17.4 months. The average recovery rate (RR) was 47.5% as calculated from the mJOA scores. According to RR, 10 cases were classified as good, 4 cases fair, and 4 cases unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

For patients with thoracic OLF at a single level and lateral, extended, and enlarged types without comma and tram track signs, it is safe and reliable to perform PEPD, which has satisfactory clinical results. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.

Progress in the 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing in Forensic Science

Forensic microorganism is one of the hotspots of forensic science research. Due to its conservatism and specificity, the 16S rRNA gene is found to be an ideal marker for forensic identification. With the rapid development of high throughput sequencing technology, the research on microorganisms has been gradually applied to many fields such as environment and health care. In the field of forensic science, the results of forensic microbiology research, represented by 16S rRNA gene sequencing, are also gradually applied to forensic practice, such as biological samples identification, individual identification, postmortem interval estimation, and regional inference, which not only provide clues for the investigation of cases but also complement and assist traditional methods. This paper describes the research methods and related sequencing technologies of 16S rRNA gene sequencing, summarizes its research progress, and discusses the application value and potential of 16S rRNA in forensic science.

Protease-activated receptor-1 (PAR1) promotes epithelial-endothelial transition through Twist1 in hepatocellular carcinoma

Background

Tumor cells transfer into endothelial cells by epithelial–endothelial transition (EET), which is characterized by vasculagenic mimicry (VM) in morphology. VM can change tumor microcirculation, progression, and metastasis. However, the molecular mechanisms of endothelial-like transition remain unclear. EET is a subtype of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Twist1, a transcriptional regulatory factor of EMT, is an important factor that induces EET in hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC), but the upstream signal of Twist1 is unclear.

Methods

Expression plasmids, Ca mobilization, and three-dimensional cultures were evaluated. Western blot assay, reporter gene assay, and immunofluorescence staining were conducted. A murine xenograft model was established. Analyses of immunohistochemistry, patient samples, and complementary DNA (cDNA) microarrays were also performed.

Results

This study demonstrated that protease-activated receptor-1 (PAR1) can increase the expression of endothelial markers and enhance VM formation by upregulating Twist1 both in vitro and in vivo through thrombin binding. Thrombin not only activates PAR1 but also promotes PAR1 internalization in a time-dependent manner. Clinical pathological analysis further confirms that PAR1 expression is directly correlated with the endothelial marker expression, VM formation, and metastasis and indicates poor survival rate of patients with tumors.

Conclusion

PAR1 promotes EET through Twist1 in HCC.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13046-018-0858-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

[Establishment of DNA Genetic Marker Identification System for Plant Evidence]

OBJECTIVES

To establish a species identification system based on DNA genetic markers for plant evidence.

METHODS

Two hundred common plants in Shanghai were collected and identified by morphological characteristics. The primers of gene segments rbcL, matK, and ITS were designed and amplified. The PCR amplicon was detected by agarose gel electrophoresis. After the sequencing, the universality and the identification capacity of the three markers were evaluated.

RESULTS

The success rate of amplification was in order of rbcL （99.5%） > matK （92.5%） > ITS （86.0%）. The identification capacity of the combination of rbcL and matK was better than that of rbcL or matK, by which most plant species could be identified to the genus or higher. ITS was not suitable to be a unique marker because of its unstable result, but it still could be a powerful supplement. The identification capacity of the combination of rbcL, matK and ITS was higher than that of rbcL and matK, by which most plant species could be identified to the genus or lower.

CONCLUSIONS

The identification system with the combination of rbcL, matK and ITS as markers has excellent universality for plant evidence, which can distinguish most plant species to the genus or lower.

Parthenolide attenuated bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis via the NF-κB/Snail signaling pathway

Background

Parthenolide (PTL) is a natural molecule isolated from Tanacetum parthenium that exhibits excellent anti-inflammatory and antitumor activities. Pulmonary fibrosis (PF), especially idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), is a chronic lung disease that lacks a proven effective therapy. The present study evaluated the therapeutic effect of PTL on PF.

Methods

Serum-starved primary lung fibroblasts and HFL1 cells were treated with different doses of PTL, and cell viability and the migration rate were measured. Western blot analysis and a dual-luciferase assay were used to analyze the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related transcription factors influenced by PTL treatment in A549 cells and primary lung epithelial cells. Mice with bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis were treated with different doses of intragastric PTL, and pathological changes were evaluated using Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining and immunohistochemical analysis.

Results

Our results demonstrated that PTL reduced the cell viability and migration rate of lung fibroblasts and inhibited the expression of EMT-related transcription factors in lung epithelial cells. In vivo studies demonstrated that PTL attenuated BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis and improved the body weight and pathological changes of BLM-treated mice. We further demonstrated that PTL attenuated BLM-induced PF primarily via inhibition of the NF-κB/Snail signaling pathway.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that PTL inhibits EMT and attenuates BLM-induced PF via the NF-κB/Snail signaling pathway. PTL is a worthwhile candidate compound for pulmonary fibrosis therapy.

Twist1 Regulates Vimentin through Cul2 Circular RNA to Promote EMT in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Twist is a critical epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-inducing transcription factor that increases expression of vimentin. How Twist1 regulates this expression remains unclear. Here, we report that Twist1 regulates Cullin2 (Cul2) circular RNA to increase expression of vimentin in EMT. Twist1 bound the Cul2 promoter to activate its transcription and to selectively promote expression of Cul2 circular RNA (circ-10720), but not mRNA. circ-10720 positively correlated with Twist1, tumor malignance, and poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Twist1 promoted vimentin expression by increasing levels of circ-10720, which can absorb miRNAs that target vimentin. circ-10720 knockdown counteracted the tumor-promoting activity of Twist1 in vitro and in patient-derived xenograft and diethylnitrosamine-induced TetOn-Twist1 transgenic mouse HCC models. These data unveil a mechanism by which Twist1 regulates vimentin during EMT. They also provide potential therapeutic targets for HCC treatment and provide new insight for circular RNA (circRNA)-based diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.Significance: A circRNA-based mechanism drives Twist1-mediated regulation of vimentin during EMT and provides potential therapeutic targets for treatment of HCC.Graphical Abstract: http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/canres/78/15/4150/F1.large.jpg Cancer Res; 78(15); 4150-62. ©2018 AACR.

[Efficiency Analysis of EX16+10Y Kit on Detection of the Uygur Population in Xinjiang Province]

OBJECTIVES

To analyse the efficiency of EX16+10Y kit on the forensic detection of the Uygur in Xinjiang province.

METHODS

The blood samples were extracted from 4 620 male individuals of Uygur in Xinjiang province, and amplified by EX16+10Y kit. The typing of amplification products was performed by 3130xl genetic analyzer.

RESULTS

The genotyping graphs of 15 autosomal STR loci and 10 Y-chromosomal STR loci from 4 620 male individuals of Uygur in Xinjiang province were acquired completely. The genotype distribution of 15 autosomal STR loci was consistent with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The heterozygosity, polymorphism information content and discrimination power of STR loci were 0.637-0.838, 0.580-0.860 and 0.811-0.978, respectively. There were 766 haplotypes in 10 Y -chromosomal STR loci.

CONCLUSIONS

The test results of EX16+10Y kit is accurate and trustworthy, which can simultaneously be used for the individual identification and the screening of paternal pedigree in practical work.

Doxycycline attenuates paraquat-induced pulmonary fibrosis by downregulating the TGF-β signaling pathway

Background

Paraquat (PQ) is a highly efficient herbicide that remains widely used in agriculture. However, the inappropriate application of this herbicide may cause multiple organ injuries including pulmonary injury. In this study, we report that doxycycline (Doxy) treats PQ-induced pulmonary fibrosis (PF).

Methods

Mice with PQ-induced PF were treated with different doses of Doxy by intragastric administration. Human lung cancer cell line A549 pre-treated with TGF-β1 (5 ng/mL) were treated with Doxy hydrochloride (3.4 µM).

Results

PF was observed from day 28 in PQ-treated group and Doxy treatments significantly reduced pulmonary coefficient, histopathological score and collagen content in a dose-dependent manner. Doxy can inhibit the expression levels of plasma inflammation cytokines at day 28 after modeling and reduced inflammatory response at early stage of PQ-induced lung injury. Immunohistochemical staining assay and proteomic analysis indicated that Doxy could restore ectopic epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) induced by PQ-treatment by regulating numerous TGF-β signaling related proteins.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that Doxy can restore the balance of epithelial-mesenchymal cells and attenuate PQ-induced PF by downregulating the TGF-β signaling pathway.

Apigenin inhibits colonic inflammation and tumorigenesis by suppressing STAT3-NF-κB signaling

Apigenin is a naturally occurring compound with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Here, we investigated the effects of apigeninin inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colitis-associated cancer (CAC). Apigenin effectively inhibited ulcerative colitis, a type of IBD, and CAC. Apigenin decreased myeloperoxidase (MPO), inflammatory cytokine and COX-2 levels, and it attenuated inflammatory cell infiltration in treated colon tissues as compared to untreated model colon tissues. Apigenin also reduced NF-κB and STAT3 activity in vitro and in vivo, thereby inhibiting inflammation and inflammation-induced carcinogenesis. Thus apigenin appears to inhibit inflammation and inflammation-induced carcinogenesisin IBD and CAC by suppressing STAT3-NF-κB signaling.

Dihydroartemisinin inhibits EMT induced by platinum-based drugs via Akt-Snail pathway

Artemisinin and its derivatives exhibit a high activity against a range of cancer cell types both in vitro and in vivo. In clinical practice, platinum-based anti-cancer chemotherapy is widely used to treat tumors. However, a large proportion of patients receiving these treatments will relapse because of metastasis and drug resistance. The purpose of this study is to explore the combinational anti-metastatic effect of platinum-based drugs and dihydroartemisinin (DHA). Both DDP and oxaliplatin (OXA) at low doses could induce epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in HCC. Meanwhile, co-administration of DHA could enhance DDP and OXA chemosensitivity in HCC and reverse drug resistance. DHA reversed the morphological changes induced by DDP or OXA and reversed the changes in EMT biomarkers induced by DDP and OXA in HCC in vitro and in vivo via AKT–Snail signaling. DHA significantly increased platinum-based drug sensitivity and suppressed EMT induced by platinum-based drugs via AKT–Snail signaling in HCC. DHA is expected to become the new adjuvant for chemotherapy.

[Analysis of related factors of recurrent otitis media with effusion in children]

Objective:To investigate the influencing factors of recurrent episodes of otitis media with effusion in children.Method:A retrospective summary of the clinical data of 210 cases of children with otitis media with effusion, 75 cases of recurrence after treatment, 135 cases were recovered, the recurrence of the related factors and after symptomatic treatment effect is analyzed.Result:Logistic regression analysis results found that adenoid hypertrophy (Ⅲ°, Ⅳ°), tonsil hypertrophy (Ⅳ°) and sinusitis (including choanal polyp), a positive allergens, upper respiratory tract infection, the stomach esophagus regurgitation, cleft palate, younger age has significant effect on recurrence of otitis media with effusion, have significant difference (P< 0.05). And the influence of duration, gender, passive smoking history and previous medical history of otitis media with effusion has no obvious statistical significance (P> 0.05). Through the comparison among different age groups, adenoidectomy Ⅲ °, Ⅳ ° hypertrophy tract infections in > 3-6 years old group has significant effect (P< 0.05), recurrent respiratory tract infections in less than 3 years old group and the group of children aged > 3-6 years OME recurrence has significant effect (P< 0.05). By tympanocentesis or tympanostomy tube insertion and according to different conditions to take symptomatic treatment, 75 cases (123 ears) were cured 96 ears (78.05%), 19 ears were improved (15.45%), the total effective rate was 93.50%, ineffective in 8 ears (6.50%).Conclusion:Adenoid hypertrophy (Ⅲ°, Ⅳ°), tonsil hypertrophy (Ⅳ°), sinusitis, nasal polyps, allergic diseases and upper respiratory tract infection gastroesophageal reflux, cleft palate and younger age may be adverse factors related to recurrent otitis media with effusion in children, the clinical doctors should pay attention to these symptoms, according to different causes, adopt individualized treatment plan, make children get the best treatment as soon as possible.

Sesquiterpene binding Gly-Leu-Ser/Lys-"co-adaptation pocket" to inhibit lung cancer cell epithelial-mesenchymal transition

Sesquiterpene lactones (SL) have a wide range of applications in anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory therapy. However, the pharmacological mechanism of such substances is not clear. In this study, parthenolide (PTL) was used as an example to explore the anti-tumor effect of natural molecules and their common mechanism. We showed that PTL inhibited the proliferation and migration by reverse EMT via the ERK2/NF-κB/Snail pathway in vivo and in vitro. Interestingly, Multiple potential targets of PTL contain a Gly-Leu-Ser/Lys-“co-adaptation pocket”. This inspiring us analogies of PTL may also bind to these target proteins and play a similar function. Significantly, the Concept of co-adaptation pocket may help to increase the selectivity of drug research and development.

Twist1 confers multidrug resistance in colon cancer through upregulation of ATP-binding cassette transporters

Multidrug resistance is a major problem in colon cancer treatment. However, its molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Recently, the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in anticancer drug resistance has attracted increasing attention. This study investigated whether vincristine treatment induces EMT and promotes multidrug resistance in colon cancer. The result showed that vincristine treatment increases the expression of several ATP-binding cassette transporters in invasive human colon adenocarcinoma cell line (HCT-8). Vincristine-resistant HCT-8 cells (HCT-8/V) acquire a mesenchymal phenotype, and thus its migratory and invasive ability are increased both in vitro and in vivo. The master transcriptional factors of EMT, especially Twist1, were significantly increased in the HCT-8/V cell line. Moreover, the ectopic expression of Twist1 increased the chemoresistance of HCT-8 cells to vincristine and increased the expression levels and promoter activities of ABCB1 and ABCC1. Furthermore, Twist1 silencing reverses the EMT phenotype, enhances the chemosensitivity of HCT-8/ V cells to anticancer agents in vitro and in vivo, and downregulates the expression of ABCB1 and ABCC1. Twist1-mediated promotion of ABCB1 and ABCC1 expression levels plays an important role in the drug resistance of colon cancer cells.

The influence of emission control on particle number size distribution and new particle formation during China's V-Day parade in 2015

Temporary strict emission control strategies were conducted to ensure good air quality for China's V-Day parade (August 20-September 3, 2015) in Beijing and nearby cities. The influence of the emission control on particle number size distribution (PNSD) was evaluated based on the long-term measurements of PNSD at a rural site (Shangdianzi) located northeast of Beijing. This study also presented the comparison results of PNSD during the parade in 2015 and the Olympics in 2008 (August 8-23), as well as the same period without strict emission control in 2010-2013 (August 20-September 3). Compared with the same period in 2010-2013 and 2008 Olympics, the accumulation mode particle number concentration showed a significant reduction in 2015, and the PM₁ mass concentration decreased by approximately 60-90%. The alleviation of the PM₁ was also associated with the weather conditions. The back trajectories analysis results showed that the southerly air mass passing through the polluted areas accounted for 14% of the total back trajectories in 2015, which contributed to approximately 60% in the other years. During the control period in 2015, there were six new particle formation (NPF) events observed, with a higher frequency, but a lower formation rate and growth rate than the same period in 2010-2013. The comparison of the condensation sink (CS), sulfuric acid, solar radiation and relative humidity among the different years indicated that at Shangdianzi station, the first factor in determining the NPF occurrence was the CS, and the second factor could be the concentration level of precursor vapors participating in the NPF event (e.g., sulfuric acid).

[Research Progress on Gene Alterations of Amelogenin Locus in Gender Identification]

There are two kinds of amelogenin gene mutation, including mutation in primer-binding region of amelogenin gene and micro deletion of Y chromosome encompassing amelogenin gene, and the latter is more common. The mechanisms of mutation in primer-binding region of amelogenin gene is nucleotide point mutation and the mechanism of micro deletion of Y chromosome encompassing amelogenin gene maybe non-allelic homologous recombination or non-homologous end-joining. Among the population worldwide, there is a notably higher frequency of amelogenin gene mutations in Indian population, Sri Lanka population and Nepalese population which reside within the Indian subcontinent. Though amelogenin gene mutations have little impact on fertility and phenotype, they might cause incorrect result in gender identification. Using composite-amplification kit which including autosomal STR locus, amelogenin gene locus and multiple Y-STR locus, could avoid wrong gender identification caused by amelogenin gene mutation.

Doxycycline reverses epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and suppresses the proliferation and metastasis of lung cancer cells

The gelatinase inhibitor doxycycline is the prototypical antitumor antibiotic. We investigated the effects of doxycycline on the migration, invasion, and metastasis of human lung cancer cell lines and in a mouse model. We also measured the effect of doxycycline on the transcription of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers, and used immunohistochemistry to determine whether EMT reversal was associated with doxycycline inhibition. Doxycycline dose-dependently inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion of NCI-H446 human small cell lung cancer cells. It also suppressed tumor growth from NCI-H446 and A549 lung cancer cell xenografts without altering body weight, inhibited Lewis lung carcinoma cell migration, and prolonged survival. The activities of the transcription factors Twist1/2, SNAI1/2, AP1, NF-κB, and Stat3 were suppressed by doxycycline, which reversed EMT and inhibited signal transduction, thereby suppressing tumor growth and metastasis. Our data demonstrate functional targeting of transcription factors by doxycycline to reverse EMT and suppress tumor proliferation and metastasis. Thus, doxycycline selectively targets malignant tumors and reduces its metastatic potential with less cytotoxicity in lung cancer patients.

[Identification of Vaginal Fluid Using Microbial Signatures]

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the specific microbial signatures in vaginal fluid.

METHODS

Vaginal fluid （16 samples）, saliva （16 samples）, feces （16 samples）, semen （8 samples）, peripheral blood （8 samples）, urine （5 samples）, and nasal secretion （4 samples） were collected respectively. The 16S rRNA genes of Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus jensenii, Lactobacillus iners, and Atopobium vaginae were amplified. PCR production was detected via a 3130xl Genetic Analyzer.

RESULTS

The detected number of Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus jensenii, Lactobacillus iners, and Atopobium vaginae were 15, 5, 8, 14, and 3 in all vaginal fluid samples, respectively. Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus jensenii existed specifically in vaginal fluid.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a potential application value to detect Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus jensenii for the identification of vaginal fluid.

Source Identification of Human Biological Materials and Its Prospect in Forensic Science

Source identification of human biological materials in crime scene plays an important role in reconstructing the crime process. Searching specific genetic markers to identify the source of different human biological materials is the emphasis and difficulty of the research work of legal medical experts in recent years. This paper reviews the genetic markers which are used for identifying the source of human biological materials and studied widely, such as DNA methylation, mRNA, microRNA, microflora and protein, etc. By comparing the principles and methods of source identification of human biological materials using different kinds of genetic markers, different source of human biological material owns suitable marker types and can be identified by detecting single genetic marker or combined multiple genetic markers. Though there is no uniform standard and method for identifying the source of human biological materials in forensic laboratories at present, the research and development of a series of mature and reliable methods for distinguishing different human biological materials play the role as forensic evidence which will be the future development direction.

Application of Minimum Effective Cuff Inflating Volume for Laryngeal Mask Airway and its Impact on Postoperative Pharyngeal Complications

BACKGROUND

High intracuff pressure can cause severe pharyngeal complications including sore throat or hoarseness after laryngeal mask airway (LMA) removal postoperatively. Though the application of minimum effective cuff inflating volume is suggested to maintain airway sealing and adequacy of ventilation for patients receiving general anesthesia with LMA at lower level of the intracuff pressure, it is currently not a standard care in most of the anesthetic departments. In this study, the minimum effective cuff inflating volume was determined for classic LMA Well Lead™ (Well Lead Medical Co., Ltd., China) and its impact on postoperative pharyngeal complications was also explored.

METHODS

Patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status (I-III) undergoing the short-duration urological surgery were recruited in this trial. First, the minimum effective cuff inflating volume was determined for size 4 or 5 LMA Well Lead in the study 1. Immediately following placement and confirmation of ideal LMA position, the cuff was inflated with 5, 7, 10 ml of air and up to 30 ml at 5 ml increment. The intracuff pressure, oropharyngeal leak pressure (OLP), and inspiratory peak airway pressure under positive pressure ventilation at the corresponding cuff volume as indicated above were recorded. Second, the enrolled patients were randomly allocated into minimum effective cuff inflating volume group (MC) and routine care (RC) group in the study 2. The minimum effective cuff inflating volume was applied and maintained in MC group, whereas the cuff volume was inflated with half of the maximum cuff inflating volume recommended by manufacturer in RC group throughout the surgical procedure and stay in postanesthesia care unit prior to LMA removal. The incidence of pharyngeal complications at 0, 2, 24, and 48 h after removal of LMA and other intra-operative adverse events were also documented.

RESULTS

The intracuff pressure varied with the cuff inflating volume in a positive linear correlation manner (Y = 11.68X - 42.1, r(2) = 0.9191) under the range of 5-30 ml for size 4 LMA. In similar with size 4 LMA, the data were also showed the linear relationship between the intracuff pressure and the cuff inflating volume (Y = 7.39X - 10.9, r(2) = 0.8855) for size 5 LMA. The minimal effective cuff inflating volume for size 4 or 5 LMA was 7-9 ml in combination of considering OLP needed to maintain airway sealing during intermittently positive pressure ventilation. The intracuff pressure in MC group was lower compared with RC group (63.0 ± 3.7 vs. 126.4 ± 24.0 cmH2O for size 4 LMA; 55.6 ± 2.4 vs. 138.5± 26.8 cmH2O for size 5 LMA; P < 0.0001). The incidence of pharyngeal adverse events was lower in MC group versus the RC group at 2, 24 h after LMA removal.

CONCLUSIONS

The relationship between the cuff inflating volume and the intracuff pressure for size 4 or 5 LMA Well Lead(TM) is in a linear correlation manner at the range of 5-30 ml. The minimal cuff inflating volume is adequate for satisfactory airway sealing and consequently associated with lower incidence of postoperative pharyngeal complications for LMA Well Lead.™.

[The research progress of Aurora-B kinase and its inhibitors]

Aurora-B as an important kinase to adjust the cell normal mitosis is a potent target for cancer treatment. Aurora-B is overexpressed in a broad range of tumor and tumor cells are more sensitive while Aurora-B is inhibited. Due to the key role of the Aurora-B in cell mitosis, the development of its inhibitors is becoming more and more important. Several small molecules inhibit with a similar efficacy both Aurora-A and Aurora-B, however, in most cases the effects resemble Aurora-B disruption by genetic methods, indicating that Aurora-B represents an effective therapeutic target. There were several Aurora-B kinase inhibitors which had entered the clinics and displayed good antitumor activity. In this review, we will outline the functions of Aurora kinase B in normal cell division and in malignancy. We will focus on recent preclinical and clinical studies that have explored the mechanism of action and clinical effect of Aurora-B inhibitors in cancer treatment.

Effects of full-length borealin on the composition and protein-protein interaction activity of a binary chromosomal passenger complex

The chromosomal passenger complex (CPC) comprises at least four protein components and functions at various cellular localizations during different mitotic stages to ensure correct chromosome segregation and completion of cytokinesis. Borealin, the most recently identified member of the CPC, is an intrinsically unstructured protein of low solubility and stability. Recent reports have demonstrated the formation of binary or ternary CPC subcomplexes incorporating short Borealin fragments in vitro. Using isothermal titration calorimetry, we show that full-length Borealin, instead of a Borealin fragment possessing the complete Survivin and INCENP recognition sequence, is required for the composition of a Borealin-Survivin complex competent to interact with INCENP. In addition, we show evidence that full-length Borealin, which forms high-order oligomers in its isolated form, is a monomer in the Borealin-Survivin CPC subcomplex.

The HumD21S11 system of short tandem repeat DNA polymorphisms in Japanese and Chinese

HumD21S11 is a short tandem repeat DNA polymorphic system with a complex basic structure of (TCTA)4-6 (TCTG)5-6 (TCTA)3 TA (TCTA)3 TCA (TCTA)2 TCCA TA (TCTA)n. Using the allelic ladder prepared by us, the distribution of alleles among Japanese and Chinese was investigated, and four new alleles 28.2, 34, 35.2, and 36.2, were discovered. DNA sequencing was performed on the newly found alleles as well as on family samples and led to the discovery of different gene structures within alleles 28 and 32. Forensic materials, including hairs and seminal stains, were tested in parallel with blood samples from the same individual and were successfully typed for D21S11.

Complete culture medium is better than low folate medium for detecting increased chromosome aberrations in smokers in 48-h lymphocyte cultures

We compared chromosome breakage in parallel, 48-h lymphocyte cultures established from smokers and nonsmokers using minimal essential medium (MEM) and MEM without folate (MEM-FA). There was a statistically significant, higher frequency of aberrations for smokers than for nonsmokers in cells cultured in MEM, but not in those cultured in MEM-FA. Thus, these data support the recommendation of the World Health Organization (1985) that population monitoring studies for exposure assessment should not use a low folate medium.