The association between O2-pulse slope ratio and functional severity of coronary stenosis: A combined cardiopulmonary exercise testing and quantitative flow ratio study

Background

The role of cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) parameters in evaluating the functional severity of coronary disease remains unclear. The aim of this study was to quantify the O2-pulse morphology and investigate its relevance in predicting the functional severity of coronary stenosis, using Murray law-based quantitative flow ratio (μQFR) as the reference.

Methods

CPET and μQFR were analyzed in 138 patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD). The O2-pulse morphology was quantified through calculating the O2-pulse slope ratio. The presence of O2-pulse plateau was defined according to the best cutoff value of O2-pulse slope ratio for predicting μQFR ≤ 0.8.

Results

The optimal cutoff value of O2-pulse slope ratio for predicting μQFR ≤ 0.8 was 0.4, with area under the curve (AUC) of 0.632 (95 % CI: 0.505-0.759, p = 0.032). The total discordance rate between O2-pulse slope ratio and μQFR was 27.5 %, with 13 patients (9.4 %) being classified as mismatch (O2-pulse slope ratio > 0.4 and μQFR ≤ 0.8) and 25 patients being classified as reverse-mismatch (O2-pulse slope ratio ≤ 0.4 and μQFR > 0.8). Angiography-derived microvascular resistance was independently associated with mismatch (OR 0.07; 95 % CI: 0.01-0.38, p = 0.002) and reverse-mismatch (OR 9.76; 95 % CI: 1.47-64.82, p = 0.018).

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate the potential of the CPET-derived O2-pulse slope ratio for assessing myocardial ischemia in stable CAD patients.

Spatio-temporal evolution and driving factors of new urbanization in central China based on multi-source data

Urbanization is an inevitable outcome of the development of human society to a certain stage, and it is also an irreversible pattern of the concentration degree of human society. Based on multi-source data such as remote sensing images, ecological environment and socio-economic data, the evaluation index system of new urbanization is constructed from multi-dimensions of population, economy, society, space and ecology. To explore the spatio temporal evolution and driving factors of urbanization in 80 prefecture-level cities in central China from 2013 to 2021 by using entropy method, spatial autocorrelation model and geographic detector. The results show that: (1) The level of new urbanization continues to grow, with the average value rising from 0.1562 in 2013 to 0.2557 in 2021, and the regional differences are obvious, forming a circle structure with Wuhan, Zhengzhou and other provincial capitals as the center and weakening radiation to surrounding cities. (2) The agglomeration of ecological urbanization is significant, and the agglomeration trend is gradually enhanced. The high-high agglomeration areas tend to Xinzhou City, most prefecture-level cities in Hubei Province and some prefecture-level cities in Southern Hunan Province, while the low-low agglomeration areas tend to Changzhi City, most prefecture level cities in Henan Province and some prefecture-level cities in Northern Anhui Province. (3) The night light index, total retail sales of consumer goods, investment in fixed assets, proportion of built-up areas and urban economic density are the main driving factors affecting the level of new urbanization. (4) The interaction of driving factors shows double factor enhancement and nonlinear enhancement effects.

Synergistic effect of excellent carriers separation and efficient high level energy electron utilization on Bi3+-Ce2Ti2O7/ZnIn2S4 heterostructure for photocatalytic hydrogen production

The separation of photogenerated carriers and the efficient utilization of high-level energy electrons (HLEEs) are the key processes for improving the performance of photocatalysts. Herein, Ce2Ti2O7/ZnIn2S4 (CTOZIS) and Bi3+-doped Ce2Ti2O7/ZnIn2S4 (BCTOZIS) photocatalyst were successfully synthesized through hydrothermal method. The photocatalytic hydrogen production of CTOZIS and BCTOZIS was 1233.7 μmol g-1 and 4168.5 μmol g-1 under visible light irradiation (λ ≥ 420 nm) within 5 h, which was 2.3 and 7.6 times than that of pure ZnIn2S4, respectively. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy and electrochemical characterization demonstrated that after Bi3+ doping, the electron-hole pairs recombination of BCTOZIS was inhibited, which may be ascribed to the establishment of a Z-scheme heterojunction and the presence of oxygen vacancy and Ce4+/Ce3+ redox center. The doping of Bi3+ resulted in the adjustment of the valence band position of Ce2Ti2O7 from 1.98 V to 1.92 V. This adjustment enabled direct transfer of HLEEs generated in Ce2Ti2O7 to the conduction band of ZnIn2S4 for hydrogen production with a wavelength below 423 nm. The synergistic effect of conventional Z-scheme electron transfer and the unique utilization of HLEEs boosted the photocatalytic performance of BCTOZIS. This study affords an innovative insight for designing visible-light-driven photocatalysts with high photocatalytic activity.

Effect of Yifei Qinghua Granule on the Tumor Microenvironment in Lung Cancer by Regulating the Inflammatory Pathway

To investigate the mechanism of action of inflammatory molecules regulating the tumor microenvironment and anti-tumor through Yifei Qinghua granules and phloroglucinol-containing serum intervening in the changes of tumor microenvironment in vitro in the co-culture of lung cancer cells and bone marrow cells.  A549 lung adenocarcinoma cell line and ST2 bone marrow stromal cell line were selected and a transwell chamber was used to establish the co-culture system of the two kinds of cells. They were divided into normal saline, phloroglucinol, Qifei Qinghua granule, and phloroglucinol + Yifei Qinghua granule groups. They were given drug-containing serum interventions respectively. A549 cells and ST2 cells cultured separately were used as control. Flow cytometry was used to detect the proportions of MDSCs and Tregs in bone marrow cells of ST2 cells. ELISA was used to detect the levels of inflammatory factors in the culture supernatant. Western blot was used to detect the expressions of inflammatory pathways in A549 and ST2 cells. ST2 cells and A549 cells were co-cultured. The ratio of MDSCs and Treg in ST2 cells was increased. The levels of some inflammatory factors in the culture supernatant were increased. The expression level of the inflammatory pathway in ST2 cells was increased. However, the expression level of the inflammatory pathway in A549 cells had no obvious change. While Yifei Qinghua granule and phloroglucinol could partially reverse these changes. The combination of the two was more effective than a single drug. The conversion of cells to MDSCs and Treg was accelerated after the co-culture of ST2 cells and A549 cells. The combination of Yifei Qinghua granules with phloroglucinol can reshape the tumor microenvironment, prevent this phenomenon from occurring, reduce inflammatory secretion and inhibit tumor cell growth. This may be related to the inhibition of the expressions of TNF-α/IL-1- and NF-κB/STAT3 inflammatory pathways.

Novel noble-metal-free Co2P/CdIn2S4 heterojunction photocatalysts for elevated photocatalytic H2 production: Light absorption, charge separation and active site

Constructing heterojunctions is an effective and controllable approach that can boost the activity of photocatalysts. Inspiringly, this study explored a simple method that can be used to construct novel noble-metal-free Co₂P/CdIn₂S₄ (CPCIS) heterojunction photocatalysts for photocatalytic hydrogen production. The heterojunction was formed by loading CdIn₂S₄ (CIS) nanoparticles on the surface of Co₂P (CP). The structure, morphology, and optical property of the as-prepared samples were characterized by a series of tests. The DRS results showed that, the light absorption range of CPCIS was extended to the full visible light range and its light absorption intensity obviously was enhanced at 500-800 nm. The PL and photoelectrochemical tests manifested that the formed heterojunction promoted the separation of charges. The LSV results indicated that CP reduced the H₂ evolution overpotential of the composites. Besides, CP could serve as active sites of H₂ evolution in heterojunction composites. Interestingly, the H₂-evolution rate for the optimum CPCIS (471.87 μmol h^-1 g^-1) was around 3.6 times than CIS-Pt. The elevated activity of CPCIS may mainly attribute to the following aspects: its enhanced light absorption, elevated charge separation and increased active site. More importantly, the photocatalytic activity of heterojunction composites didn't almost decrease after three cycles. This article delivers an idea that can be applied to form heterojunctions between CP and other sulfides for photocatalytic H₂ production, easily extending to other transition metal phosphides.

Evidence of the outcome and safety of upper pole vs. other pole access single puncture PCNL for kidney stones: which is better?

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to retrospectively assess the efficacy and safety of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for upper urinary stones using upper pole access (UPA) and other (low or middle) pole access (OPA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A comprehensive literature review of articles investigating the clinical efficacy and safety of UPA and OPA was performed. The relevant literature was obtained from PubMed, EMBASE, Science Direct, Google Scholar and the Cochrane Library. The primary outcomes, including the stone-free rate, were evaluated using Review Manager 5.4 software. The secondary outcomes (peri- and postoperative complications and operative date) were also compared and analyzed.

RESULTS

Ten comparative studies involving 5,290 patients were included in the analysis. The pooled data showed that the UPA group had a stone-free rate (SFR) similar to that of the OPA group [odds ratio (OR) 1.38, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.94 to 2.03; p=0.22] but a higher incidence of blood transfusion [OR: 1.50; 95% CI: (1.03, 2.19), p=0.04]. There was no statistically significant difference in operative time [mean difference (MD): -7.27; 95% CI: (-25.18, 10.65), p=0.43] or hospital stay [MD: -0.13; 95% CI: (-0.64, 0.37), p=0.60] between the two groups. In addition, the results support that UPA causes fewer complications than OPA.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that UPA and OPA are both effective treatments for the management of upper urinary stones. Compared to OPA, UPA is associated with less need for blood transfusion and fewer complications. Nevertheless, the findings should be further confirmed by well-designed prospective randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with large samples and strict standards.

[Fibroblasts overpressing WNT2b cause impairment of intestinal mucosal barrier]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the mechanism by which fibroblasts with high WNT2b expression causes intestinal mucosa barrier disruption and promote the progression of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

METHODS

Caco-2 cells were treated with 20% fibroblast conditioned medium or co-cultured with fibroblasts highly expressing WNT2b, with the cells without treatment with the conditioned medium and cells co-cultured with wild-type fibroblasts as the control groups. The changes in barrier permeability of Caco-2 cells were assessed by measuring transmembrane resistance and Lucifer Yellow permeability. In Caco-2 cells co-cultured with WNT2b-overexpressing or control intestinal fibroblasts, nuclear entry of β-catenin was detected with immunofluorescence assay, and the expressions of tight junction proteins ZO-1 and E-cadherin were detected with Western blotting. In a C57 mouse model of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced IBD-like enteritis, the therapeutic effect of intraperitoneal injection of salinomycin (5 mg/kg, an inhibitor of WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway) was evaluated by observing the changes in intestinal inflammation and detecting the expressions of tight junction proteins.

RESULTS

In the coculture system, WNT2b overexpression in the fibroblasts significantly promoted nuclear entry of β-catenin (P < 0.01) and decreased the expressions of tight junction proteins in Caco-2 cells; knockdown of FZD4 expression in Caco-2 cells obviously reversed this effect. In DSS-treated mice, salinomycin treatment significantly reduced intestinal inflammation and increased the expressions of tight junction proteins in the intestinal mucosa.

CONCLUSION

Intestinal fibroblasts overexpressing WNT2b causes impairment of intestinal mucosal barrier function and can be a potential target for treatment of IBD.

Anatomical and Functional Discrepancy in Diabetic Patients With Intermediate Coronary Lesions - An Intravascular Ultrasound and Quantitative Flow Ratio Study

BACKGROUND

Data regarding the performance of computational fractional flow reserve in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) remain scarce. This study sought to explore the impact of DM on quantitative flow ratio (QFR) and its association with intravascular ultrasound (IVUS)-derived anatomical references.Methods and Results: IVUS and QFR were retrospectively analyzed in 237 non-diabetic and 93 diabetic patients with 250 and 102 intermediate lesions, respectively. Diabetics were further categorized based on adequate (HbA1c <7.0%: 47 patients with 53 lesions) or poor (HbA1c ≥7.0%: 46 patients with 49 lesions) glycemic control. Lesions with QFR ≤0.8 or minimum lumen area (MLA) ≤4.0 mm²and plaque burden (PB, %) ≥70 were considered functionally or anatomically significant, respectively. PB increased, and MLA decreased stepwise across non-diabetics, diabetics with adequate glycemic control and those with poor glycemic control. In contrast, QFR was similar among the 3 groups. PB correlated significantly with the QFR for lesions in non-diabetics, but not for lesions in diabetics. DM was independently correlated with the functionally non-significant lesions (QFR >0.8) with high-risk IVUS features (MLA ≤4.0 mm²and PB ≥70; OR 2.053, 95% CI: 1.137-3.707, P=0.017). When considering the effect of glycemic control, HbA1c was an independent predictor of anatomical-functional discordance (OR 1.347, 95% CI: 1.089-1.667, P=0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

Anatomical-functional discordance of intermediate coronary lesions assessed by IVUS and QFR is exacerbated in patients with diabetes, especially when glycemia is poorly controlled.

Retrospective Clinical Study on Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine in Treatment of Limited-Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the efficacy of integrated Chinese and Western medicine extending the progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of limited-stage small cell lung cancer (LS-SCLC) patients after the first-line chemoradiotherapy.

METHODS

The data of 67 LS-SCLC patients who received combined treatment of CM and Western medicine (WM) between January 2013 and May 2020 at the outpatient clinic of Guang'anmen Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Thirty-six LS-SCLC patients who received only WM treatment was used as the WM control group. The medical data of the two groups were statistically analyzed. Survival analysis was performed using the product-limit method (Kaplan-Meier analysis). The median OS and PFS were calculated, and survival curves were compared by the Log rank test. The cumulative survival rates at 1, 2, and 5 years were estimated by the life table analysis. Stratified survival analysis was performed between patients with different CM administration time.

RESULTS

The median PFS in the CM and WM combination treatment group and the WM group were 19 months (95% CI: 12.357-25.643) vs. 9 months (95% CI: 5.957-12.043), HR=0.43 (95% CI: 0.27-0.69, P<0.001), respectively. The median OS in the CM and WM combination group and the WM group were 34 months (95% CI could not be calculated) vs. 18.63 months (95% CI: 16.425-20.835), HR=0.40 (95% CI: 0.24-0.66, P<0.001), respectively. Similar results were obtained in the further stratified analysis of whether the duration of CM administration exceeded 18 and 24 months (P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

The combination treatment of CM and WM with continuing oral administration of CM treatment after the first-line chemoradiotherapy for LS-SCLC patients produced better prognosis, lower risks of progression, and longer survival than the WM treatment alone. (Registration No. ChiCTR2200056616).

[The value of a nomogram based on clinical data and contrast enhanced CT radiomics in the preoperative prediction of Epstein-Barr virus-associated gastric carcinoma]

Objective: To explore the value of a nomogram based on clinical data and enhanced CT radiomics in the prediction of Epstein-Barr virus-associated gastric carcinoma(EBVaGC). Methods: The data of 136 patients, including 100 males and 36 females, aged [M (Q₁, Q₃)] 65 (53, 71) years, with gastric cancer confirmed by surgery and pathology were retrospectively analyzed. According to Epstein-Barr virus-encoded small RNA (EBER) in situ hybridization, those patients were divided into Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) positive group (n=32) and EBV negative group (n=104). All patients underwent multi-phase enhanced CT scanning before surgery and randomly assigned to the training group (n=95) and validation group (n=41) in a ratio of 7︰3. MaZda software was used to extract radiomics features of enhanced CT images. The intra-group correlation coefficient (ICC), variance analysis and minimum absolute shrinkage and selection algorithm (LASSO) regression were used to reduce the dimensionality of the radiomics features, and then the radiomics score (Radscore) was calculated. The nomogram model was based on combined clinical data, morphological features and Radscore. The predictive power of the nomogram was evaluated according to the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and the net clinical benefit of the nomogram was evaluated by the decision curve and calibration curves were drawn according to the data of the training group and the validation group to analyze the consistency of the nomogram model. Results: After selection, six optimal radiomics features were obtained, including Mean, Skewness, S(1, 0) Sum entropy, S(1, 1) Contrast, 99% percentile and S(2, 2)Angular second moment. Radscore of EBV positive group were higher than that of the EBV negative group (training group: 3.78±0.83 vs 2.80±0.98; validation group: 3.81±0.47 vs 2.94±0.95) (both P<0.05) both in the training group and validation group. The AUC of the radiomics model in training group and validation group were 0.773(95%CI:0.612-0.962)and 0.792(95%CI:0.597-0.927)respectively,and the sensitivity and specificity were 63.6% and 93.1%, 70.0% and 87.1%, respectively. The AUC of the nomogram model based on clinical data and radiomics in the training group and the validation group were 0.883(95%CI:0.644-0.984) and 0.851(95%CI:0.715-0.996), respectively. The nomogram model showed superior predictive performance (both P<0.05). Conclusion: The nomogram model based on clinical data and radiomics has better efficacy in the prediction of Epstein-Barr virus associated gastric cancer.

Study on the Spatial Interaction between Urban Economic and Ecological Environment-A Case Study of Wuhan City

In order to study the interactive relationship between urban economic and ecological environment, taking Wuhan as an example, Landsat and MODIS remote sensing satellite data and social and economic data were fused with multisource data, and multidimensional indicators were selected to construct the comprehensive evaluation index system of urban economic and ecological environment. The weights were determined by combining subjective and objective methods. Then, the decoupling elasticity coefficient method and spatial autocorrelation model were used to evaluate the dynamic relationship and spatial relationship between economic development and ecological environment in Wuhan from 2014 to 2020. The results showed that there was an interaction between the urban economic and the ecological environment in Wuhan. The ecological level index had a spatial effect, the adjustment of industrial structure had a positive effect on the improvement of the ecological level, and the improvement of the ecological level was also helpful to promote economic development. The typical districts of Huangpi District, Xinzhou District, Jiangxia District, Hannan District, Caidian District, and Hongshan District had superior location and ecological advantages, as well as high development potential. Lastly, on the basis of the empirical analysis results, policy suggestions are made from four aspects: regional differentiated construction, green development, energy consumption, and wetland construction.

Association of quantitative flow ratio-derived microcirculatory indices with anatomical-functional discordance in intermediate coronary lesions

Discrepancy between coronary lesion severity and functional significance has always been a relevant issue in the management of patients undergoing coronary angiography and/or revascularization. We sought to investigate the relationship between quantitative flow ratio (QFR)-derived microcirculatory indices and anatomical-functional mismatch/reverse mismatch in intermediate coronary lesions. Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) imaging and QFR were analyzed in 117 de novo intermediate coronary lesions. Lesions with QFR ≤ 0.8 were considered hemodynamically significant. Anatomical significance of the lesions was defined according to the best cutoff value of combined IVUS parameters for predicting QFR ≤ 0.8. QFR-derived microcirculatory indices including contrast-flow QFR minus fixed-flow QFR (cQFR-fQFR), hyperemic flow velocity and angiography-derived index of microcirculatory resistance (IMR_angio) were calculated. The best cutoff values of IVUS parameters for predicting QFR ≤ 0.8 were minimum lumen area (MLA) 3.1mm² and plaque burden (PB) 70%, with area under the curve of 0.635 and 0.703, respectively. The total discordance rate of lesion functional significance between IVUS and QFR assessments was 26.5%, with 21 lesions (17.9%) being classified as mismatch (MLA ≤ 3.1mm² and PB ≥ 70% and QFR > 0.8) and 10 lesions (8.5%) as reverse-mismatch (MLA > 3.1 mm² or PB < 70% and QFR ≤ 0.8). At multivariate analysis, IMR_angio was identified as an independent predictor of mismatch (OR1.675, 95%CI:1.176-2.386, P = 0.004), whereas hyperemic flow velocity was identified as an independent predictor of reverse-mismatch (OR 1.233, 95%CI:1.073-1.416, P = 0.003). In intermediate coronary lesions, although MLA 3.1mm² and PB 70% determined by IVUS are predictive of QFR-defined functional significance, the discordance rate remains substantial. QFR-derived microcirculatory indices are independently associated with anatomical-functional discordance between IVUS and QFR assessments.

Transcatheter closure for patent ductus arteriosus in patients with Eisenmenger syndrome: to do or not?

BACKGROUND

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) complicated by Eisenmenger syndrome (ES) remains to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Giving increasing evidences of benefit from targeted therapies, ES patients once thought to be inoperable may have increasing options for management. This study aims to explore whether PDA in patients with ES can be treated with transcatheter closure (TCC).

METHODS

Between August 2014 and July 2016, four of fifteen PDA-ES patients whose Qp/Qs improved significantly and Qp/Qs > 1.5 after acute vasodilator testing with 100% oxygen were selected to receive TCC and pulmonary vasodilator therapy. PAH-targeted drugs were prescribed before and after occlusion for all. Trial occlusion was performed before permanent closure.

RESULTS

The first TCC failed after initiation of PAH-targeted drugs for 6 months in four patients. After the medication was adjusted and extended to 12 months, TCC was performed for all without hemodynamic intolerances during perioperative period. Pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) was significantly decreased (≥ 40%) immediately after TCC. During a mean follow-up of 48 ± 14.70 months, there were a further decrease of PASPs in two patients, the other two showed improved pulmonary vascular resistance, WHO functional class and six-minute walking distance despite deteriorated PASP.

CONCLUSION

Some selected PDA-ES patients might benefit from TCC and combined PAH-targeted drugs play a crucial role.

Efficacy of intrauterine perfusion of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) for infertile women before embryo transfer: meta-analysis

This meta-analysis was intended to evaluate the effects of intrauterine perfusion of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) on the pregnancy outcomes including clinical pregnancy rates, embryo implantation rates, live birth rates and miscarriage rates of infertile women who were undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment. By searching Pubmed, Embase database, five articles meeting the inclusion criteria were included, and 1173 women were enrolled (intrauterine PBMC group: n = 514; NO-PBMC group: n = 659). For the entire IVF/ICSI population and one or two embryo transfer failure patients, there was no significant difference in endometrial thickness, embryo implantation rates, live birth rates, and miscarriage rates between the PBMC group and NO-PBMC group. Although the clinical pregnancy rates of the PBMC group were higher than that of the NO-PBMC group, the confidence interval was close to the line of unity. As for the patients with three or more implantation failures, the clinical pregnancy rates, embryo implantation rates and live birth rates were much higher in the PBMC group than that of the NO-PBMC group. In summary, current evidence suggests that intrauterine perfusion of PBMC can significantly improve pregnancy outcomes in patients who have three or more implantation failures.Impact statementWhat is already known on this subject? An increasing number of studies have shown that immune cells play an important role in embryo transfer. There is no reliable evidence to confirm the clinical efficacy of intrauterine perfusion of PBMC.What do the results of this study add? The current evidence suggests that intrauterine perfusion of PBMC can significantly improve pregnancy outcomes in patients who have three or more implantation failures.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? To the best of our knowledge, this meta-analysis is the first to evaluate the effect of intrauterine perfusion of PBMC on pregnancy outcomes before embryo transfer. Our study indicated that intrauterine perfusion of PBMC significantly increased clinical pregnancy rates, embryo implantation rates, and live birth rates in patients who failed more than three implants.

[Mucormycosis in patients with hematological diseases: seven cases reports and literature review]

目的

探讨血液病合并毛霉菌病患者的临床特征、诊治与转归，提高对该病的认识。

方法

回顾性分析2012年9月至2018年9月7例血液病合并毛霉菌病患者的临床资料，分析其临床特征、治疗过程和转归。

结果

7例血液病合并毛霉菌病患者中，男4例，女3例，中位年龄36（19~79）岁。基础疾病：急性髓系白血病2例，急性B淋巴细胞白血病、外周T细胞淋巴瘤、慢性髓性白血病急髓变、骨髓增殖性肿瘤及重型再生障碍性贫血（移植后）各1例。毛霉菌病临床类型：4例为肺型，1例为鼻眶脑型，1例为皮肤型，1例为播散型。7例患者均通过活检组织病理确诊。治疗药物为两性霉素B、两性霉素B脂质体及泊沙康唑。手术治疗4例，其中3例术中彻底清除病变组织，1例仅行局限性清除。治愈2例，好转1例，死亡4例。

结论

血液病合并毛霉菌病患者临床表现及影像学表现多样，死亡率高，确诊主要依赖于组织病理学。早期诊断、控制基础疾病、改善免疫抑制状态、尽早行有效的抗真菌药物治疗及彻底的手术清创治疗是提高血液病合并毛霉菌病患者生存率的关键。

Bortezomib attenuates renal interstitial fibrosis in kidney transplantation via regulating the EMT induced by TNF-α-Smurf1-Akt-mTOR-P70S6K pathway

Allograft interstitial fibrosis was characterized by massive extracellular matrix deposition caused by activated fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) is recognized as an important source of myofibroblasts contributing to the pathogenesis of allograft interstitial fibrosis. Smad ubiquitination regulatory factor 1 (Smurf1) has been recently reported to be involved in the progression of EMT. Our study was to detect the effect of Bortezomib and Smurf1 in the EMT and allograft interstitial fibrosis. Biomarkers of EMT, as well as Smurf1, were examined in human proximal tubular epithelial cells (HK‐2) treated with tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) in various doses or at various time points by Western Blotting or qRT‐PCR. We knockdown or overexpressed Smurf1 in HK‐2 cells. Furthermore, rat renal transplant model was established and intervened by Bortezomib. Allograft tissues from human and rats were also collected and prepared for HE, Masson's trichrome, immunohistochemical staining and western blotting assays. As a result, we found that TNF‐α significantly promoted the development of EMT in a time‐dependent and dose‐dependent manner through Smurf1/Akt/mTOR/P70S6K signalling pathway. More importantly, Bortezomib alleviated the progression of EMT and allograft interstitial fibrosis in vivo and in vitro by inhibiting the production of TNF‐α and expression of Smurf1. In conclusion, Smurf1 plays a critical role in the development of EMT induced by TNF‐α. Bortezomib can attenuate the Sumrf1‐mediated progression of EMT and renal allograft interstitial fibrosis, which could be suggested as a novel choice for the prevention and treatment of renal allograft interstitial fibrosis.

Gene expression profile in mouse bacterial chronic rhinosinusitis

Persistent infection in the paranasal sinuses impairs sinus drainage and leads to bacterial chronic rhinosinusitis. Greater knowledge of the key molecules in the pathology will help to clarify the pathogenesis. Study of the gene expression profile and analysis of the associated pathway is important to identify key molecules. This study investigates the expression of different genes and analyzes the key pathway in the pathological process of bacterial chronic rhinosinusitis. Bacterial chronic rhinosinusitis was induced in mice using a Merocel nasal pack inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus. Three months of mucosa samples were collected for histological and ELISA analysis, and gene expression was tested using DNA microarray. Differentially expressed genes were selected and verified for pathway analysis. The nasal mucosa of mice with chronic rhinosinusitis showed epithelial damage and lamina propria edema in extra cellular matrix with obvious mucosal inflammation. A total of 6,018 genes in bacterial chronic rhinosinusitis group were differentially expressed compared with the control. Among them, plasma, coagulation factors, urokinase plasminogen activator and urokinase receptor plasminogen activator expression were increased. Following gene ontology analysis and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, coagulation cascades associated cytokines were found to be upregulated in bacterial chronic rhinosinusitis. The present results suggest that, bacterial chronic rhinosinusitis showed severe mucosal inflammation and genes differential expression in the pathogenesis. In this process, the coagulation cascades pathways were upregulated.

Antagonism of cortistatin against cyclosporine-induced apoptosis in rat myocardial cells and its effect on myocardial apoptosis gene expression

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of cortistatin (CST) on cyclosporine A (CsA)-induced myocardial apoptosis in rats and determine its effect on the expressions of myocardial apoptosis genes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

H9C2 cells were treated with different concentrations of CsA solution (0.04, 0.2, 1 and 5 μM) for 24, 48 and 72 h, respectively. The cell viability was detected via methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay, and the appropriate dose and time were compared and determined. At the same time, CST in different concentrations (0.08, 0.04, 0.2, 1, 5 and 25 μM) was added into cell culture, and the appropriate dose was identified using MTT assay. The cellular morphology in each group was observed, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining was performed for the detection of cell apoptosis. Moreover, in molecular mechanism research, the apoptosis-associated factors, factor associated suicide (Fas), Fas ligand (FasL) and B-cell lymphoma-2-associated X protein (Bax), were detected via quantitive Real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Finally, the levels of a protein related to myocardial apoptosis in rats were investigated via Western blotting.

RESULTS

The treatment with 1 μM CsA for 48 h caused significant apoptosis. The results of TUNEL staining showed the inhibitory role of CST on the myocardial apoptosis in rats induced by CsA. The detection of apoptosis factors via Real-time PCR revealed that after the induction of CsA, the expressions of Fas, FasL and Bax mRNA in cells were significantly higher than those in control group, but were significantly decreased after administration of CST. Western blotting showed that the protein expressions of Caspase 3 and Caspase 9 were remarkably elevated in cells after the use of CsA, but were significantly reduced after administration of CST (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

CST contributes to antagonistic function against the CsA-induced apoptosis of rat myocardial cells, and its effect is related to the down-regulation of expressions of apoptotic factors, Fas, FasL, Bax, Caspase 3, and Caspase 9.

The prevalence and determinants of genitourinary syndrome of menopause in Chinese mid-life women: a single-center study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the prevalence and determinants of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) in Chinese mid-life women.

METHODS

A cross-sectional single-center study was performed among 40-65-year-old women who participated in physical examinations at Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital from December 2015 to December 2016. The participating women were questioned about their genitourinary symptoms, and the relationships between these symptoms and the women's demographic characteristics were evaluated.

RESULTS

The prevalence of GSM was 30.8%, the most frequent symptom was decreased sexual desire (18.4%), and the frequency of vulvovaginal symptoms and lower urinary tract symptoms was 17.5% and 14.8%, respectively. In addition, most of the symptoms were mild. In postmenopausal women, the prevalences of GSM and the three aforementioned symptoms were higher than those in perimenopausal women (p < 0.05). Based on binary logistic regression analysis, GSM was found to be associated with postmenopause (p = 0.007; odds ratio (OR) 1.52), at least two abortions (p = 0.035; OR 1.42), body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m² (p = 0.032; OR 1.91) and diabetes (p = 0.041; OR 1.94).

CONCLUSIONS

GSM is common in Chinese mid-life women, and associations between GSM and postmenopause, abortion, BMI and diabetes were identified. Health-care practitioners should actively discuss urogenital symptoms with middle-aged female patients and take appropriate interventions to improve the health of their urogenital tract and quality of life.

[Effect of single nucleotide polymorphisms of RS1826690 located in UGT2B4 gene on the pathological complete response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer patients]

Objective: To evaluate the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of RS1826690 located in UGT2B4 gene and pathological complete response (pCR) to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer patients. Methods: A total of 146 breast cancer patients were enrolled to detect the SNPs of RS1826690 by sequenom. The relationship between SNPs of RS1826690 and pCR, predictors of pCR were analyzed by univariate or multivariate analysis. Results: The frequency of CC, CT and TT genetype of RS1826690 was 20.6%, 39.7% and 39.7%, respectively. Of the 171 patients, pCR was achieved in 39 cases (26.7%), with CC allele in 14 cases, CT allele in 7 cases and TT allele in 18 cases, and statistically significant difference was observed (χ(2)=16.684, P=0.003). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that SNPs of RS1826690 was an independent predictor of pCR (95% CI: 2.311-28.810, P=0.001) . SNPs of RS1826690 was statistically associated with estrogen receptor (ER) status (χ(2)=7.872, P=0.020). Conclusion: SNPs of RS1826690 was associated with pCR, and breast cancer patients with CC allele were more likely to achieve pCR.

Cycle oxidation behavior and anti-oxidation mechanism of hot-dipped aluminum coating on TiBw/Ti6Al4V composites with network microstructure

Controlled and compacted TiAl₃ coating was successfully fabricated on the network structured TiBw/Ti6Al4V composites by hot-dipping aluminum and subsequent interdiffusion treatment. The network structure of the composites was inherited to the TiAl₃ coating, which effectively reduces the thermal stress and avoids the cracks appeared in the coating. Moreover, TiB reinforcements could pin the TiAl₃ coating which can effectively improve the bonding strength between the coating and composite substrate. The cycle oxidation behavior of the network structured coating on 873 K, 973 K and 1073 K for 100 h were investigated. The results showed the coating can remarkably improve the high temperature oxidation resistance of the TiBw/Ti6Al4V composites. The network structure was also inherited to the Al₂O₃ oxide scale, which effectively decreases the tendency of cracking even spalling about the oxide scale. Certainly, no crack was observed in the coating after long-term oxidation due to the division effect of network structured coating and pinning effect of TiB reinforcements. Interfacial reaction between the coating and the composite substrate occurred and a bilayer structure of TiAl/TiAl₂ formed next to the substrate after oxidation at 973 K and 1073 K. The anti-oxidation mechanism of the network structured coating was also discussed.

Study on titanium-magnesium composites with bicontinuous structure fabricated by powder metallurgy and ultrasonic infiltration

Titanium-magnesium (Ti-Mg) composites with bicontinuous structure have been successfully fabricated by powder metallurgy and ultrasonic infiltration for biomaterial potential. In the composites, Ti phase is distributed continuously by sintering necks, while Mg phase is also continuous, distributing at the interconnected pores surrounding the Ti phase. The results showed that the fabricated Ti-Mg composites exhibited low modulus and high strength, which are very suitable for load bearing biomedical materials. The composites with 100 µm and 230 µm particle sizes exhibited Young's modulus of 37.6 GPa and 23.4 GPa, 500.7 MPa and 340 MPa of compressive strength and 631.5 MPa and 375.2 MPa of bending strength, respectively. Moreover, both of the modulus and strength of the composites increase with decreasing of Ti particle sizes. In vitro study has been done for the preliminary evaluation of the Ti-Mg composites.

Association of body composition with menopausal symptoms in (peri-)menopausal women

OBJECTIVE

To explore the correlation of body composition with the severity of menopausal symptoms, as well as each classic menopausal symptom.

METHODS

A total of 758 (peri-)menopausal women were recruited (aged from 40 to 67 years) from the Menopause Clinic in the Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital. Different regions of fat mass, lean mass and fat-free mass were measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis, while menopausal symptoms were evaluated by valid modified Kupperman's index (KMI) in the Chinese version.

RESULTS

After adjusting for potential confounders, logistic regression revealed that trunk lean mass (odds ratio 0.29, 95% confidence interval 0.09-0.99) was the independent determinant of moderate to severe menopausal symptoms (KMI ≥ 16). In multiple regression analysis, significant relationships were found between body mass index and hot flushes/sweating and diabetes (p < 0.05). There was a significant relationship between lean mass and muscle/joint pain and sexual problems (p < 0.05). We also observed significant relationships between fat mass and hot flushes/sweating and muscle/joint pain.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicated that trunk lean mass was an independent protective factor for moderate to severe menopausal symptoms. Strengthening the trunk lean mass may alleviate menopausal symptoms.

The level of midgut penetration of two begomoviruses affects their acquisition and transmission by two species of Bemisia tabaci

Begomoviruses are transmitted by whiteflies in a persistent manner, but factors responsible for the variation of virus transmission by different species are poorly understood. We examined ingestion of papaya leaf curl China virus (PaLCuCNV) and tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) by two species of the Bemisia tabaci complex, MEAM1 and MED, and then quantified the virion concentrations in different organs/tissues in each species. We found that PaLCuCNV penetrated the midgut wall of MED less efficiently than MEAM1, resulting in lower efficiency of PalCuCNV transmission by MED than that by MEAM1, while TYLCV penetrated the midgut wall of both species and was transmitted by them at similar levels of efficiency. Virus coat protein determined the virus capacity to cross the midgut wall of a given whitefly species. These data indicate that the level of midgut penetration determines virus acquisition and transmission by whiteflies in the first instance.

[The situation and associated factors of facility-based HIV testing among men who sex with men in Beijing]

Objective: To understand the prevalence of facility-based HIV testing and its associated factors among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Beijing city. Methods: An application-based cross-sectional survey was employed to understand HIV site test situation and associated factors. The survey was carried out from May 14(th) to 21(st), 2016. Users of a smart phone application for gay dating were recruited and those eligible for this survey were investigated with an online self-administered questionnaire. Information of demographics, sexual behaviors, facility-based HIV testing history and recreational drug abuses were collected. The multivariate logistic regression was used to make comparison among different groups and assess associated factors. Results: A total of 7 494 participants were enrolled in the survey with mean age of (28.81 ± 7.38) years, 87.14% (6 530/7 494) sought sexual partners through internet. The proportion of facility-based HIV testing in 1 year was 42.55% (3 189/7 494), MSM who were 25-29 years had higher proportion of facility-based HIV testing in 1 year, the proportion was 45.56%(1 104/2 423). Among MSM who could insist in using condom during anal sex (50.46% (1 539/3 050)), the proportion of HIV site testing in 1 year was higher. The MSM who reported seeking healthcare for symptoms of a sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the past year or ever using recreational drug had higher proportion of facility-based HIV testing, the proportions were 56.81% (409/720) and 52.00% (1 340/4 917), respectively. Compared with alone cohabitation, cohabitating was associated with decreased odds of HIV facility-based testing in past 1 year(odds ratio (OR)= 0.79, P<0.001). Compared with homosexual sexual orientation, bisexual sexual orientation was associated with decreased odds of facility-based HIV testing (OR=0.83, P=0.004). With the increasing of number of male anal sex partners, the odds of HIV facility-based testing was increasing (OR=1.31, P<0.001) But with the decreasing of the frequency of condom using with male anal sex partners, the odds of facility-based HIV testing was decreasing (OR=0.85, P=0.014). Using recreational drugs (OR=1.36, P<0.001) and seeking healthcare for symptoms of a STI in the past 1 year (OR=1.73, P<0.001) were associated with decreased odds of HIV site testing. Conclusion: MSM in Beijing had lower proportion of facility-based HIV testing in past 1 year. Multiple anal sex partners, using recreational drugs, seeking healthcare for symptoms of a STI in the past year, cohabitating, bisexual sexual orientation, and lower frequency of condom using with male anal sex partners were associated with the odds of HIV facility-based testing in past 1 year.

Restoration of orbicularis oculi muscle function in rabbits with peripheral facial paralysis via an implantable artificial facial nerve system

The purpose of the present study was to restore orbicularis oculi muscle function using the implantable artificial facial nerve system (IAFNS). The in vivo part of the IAFNS was implanted into 12 rabbits that were facially paralyzed on the right side of the face to restore the function of the orbicularis oculi muscle, which was indicated by closure of the paralyzed eye when the contralateral side was closed. Wireless communication links were established between the in vivo part (the processing chip and microelectrode) and the external part (System Controller program) of the system, which were used to set the working parameters and indicate the working state of the processing chip and microelectrode implanted in the body. A disturbance field strength test of the IAFNS processing chip was performed in a magnetic field dark room to test its electromagnetic radiation safety. Test distances investigated were 0, 1, 3 and 10 m, and levels of radiation intensity were evaluated in the horizontal and vertical planes. Anti-interference experiments were performed to test the stability of the processing chip under the interference of electromagnetic radiation. The fully implanted IAFNS was run for 5 h per day for 30 consecutive days to evaluate the accuracy and precision as well as the long-term stability and effectiveness of wireless communication. The stimulus intensity (range, 0–8 mA) was set every 3 days to confirm the minimum stimulation intensity which could indicate the movement of the paralyzed side was set. Effective stimulation rate was also tested by comparing the number of eye-close movements on both sides. The results of the present study indicated that the IAFNS could rebuild the reflex arc, inducing the experimental rabbits to close the eye of the paralyzed side. The System Controller program was able to reflect the in vivo part of the artificial facial nerve system in real-time and adjust the working pattern, stimulation intensity and frequency, range of wave and stimulation time. No significant differences in the stimulus intensities were observed during 30 days. The artificial facial nerve system chip operation stable in the anti-interference test, and the radiation field strength of the system was in a safe range according to the national standard. The IAFNS functioned without any interference and was able to restore functionality to facially paralyzed rabbits over the course of 30 days.

Upregulated lncRNA SNHG1 contributes to progression of non-small cell lung cancer through inhibition of miR-101-3p and activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

Lung cancer is the most common and aggressive tumor in the world. Long non-coding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 1 (lncRNA SNHG1) play critical roles in the progression of cancers. However, the function and underlying mechanism remain unclear in lung cancer. In the current study, we found that expression of SNHG1 was up-regulated in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tissues and cell lines. NSCLC patients with high SNHG1 expression were significantly correlated with larger tumor size, advanced TNM stage, lymph node metastasis and poor overall survival than patients with low SNHG1 expression. Furthermore, function assays showed that SNHG1 inhibition suppressed NSCLC cell proliferation both in vitro and in vivo. We also found that miR-101-3p could act as a target of SNHG1 in NSCLC and the inhibition of NSCLC progression induced by SNHG1 knockdown required the activity of miR-101-3p. In addition, we identified that SOX9 acted as a target of miR-101-3p, and SOX9 played the oncogenic role in NSCLC by activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Taken together, our study suggested that lncRNA SNHG1 could promote NSCLC progression via miR-101-3p and SOX9. The SNHG1/miR-101-3p/SOX9/Wnt/β-catenin axis regulatory network might provide a potential new therapeutic strategy for lung cancer treatment.

Rapamycin inhibits CaCl2-induced thoracic aortic aneurysm formation in rats through mTOR-mediated suppression of proinflammatory mediators

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway on thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) development. The study used a calcium chloride (CaCl₂)-induced rat TAA model to explore the potential role of mTOR signaling pathway in the disease development. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent the periarterial exposure of thoracic aorta to either 0.5 M CaCl₂ or normal saline, and a subgroup of CaCl₂-treated rats received rapamycin 1 day prior to surgery. Without pre-administering rapamycin, significantly enhanced phosphorylation of mTOR and expression of proinflammatory cytokines [i.e., tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and interleukin (IL)-1β] were observed in the CaCl₂-treated aortic segments 2 days post-treatment compared with the NaCl-treated segments. At 2 weeks post-treatment, hematoxylin and eosin and Verhoeff-Van Gieson staining revealed aneurysmal alteration and disappearance of normal wavy elastic structures in the aortic segments exposed to CaCl₂. In contrast, the CaCl₂-induced TAA formation was inhibited by pre-administering rapamycin to CaCl₂-treated rats, which demonstrated attenuated mTOR phosphorylation and downregulation of the proinflammatory mediators (i.e., TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, matrix metallopeptidases 2 and 9) to the control level. Further in vitro cell culture experiments using aortic smooth muscle cell (SMC) suggested that the inhibition of the mTOR signaling pathway by rapamycin could promote the differentiation of SMCs, as reflected by the reduced expression of S100A4 and osteopontin. The present study indicated that the early enhanced mTOR signaling pathway in the TAA development and mTOR inhibitor rapamycin may inhibit CaCl₂-induced TAA formation.

[The outcome of trial of labor after cesarean section]

Objective: To explore the outcome of trial of labor after cesarean section(TOLAC). Methods: Totally 614 TOLAC were conducted in the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University from July 2013 to June 2016. Among them, 586 cases of singleton pregnancy with one prior cesarean section(gestational age≥28 weeks)were studied retrospectively. The maternal and neonatal outcomes among the vaginal birth after cesarean(VBAC)group(481 cases), failed TOLAC group(105 cases)and the elective repeat cesarean section(ERCS)group(1 145 cases)were compared. Multiple logistic regression was used to determine the risk factors of admission to neonatal intensive care unit(NICU). Results: (1)The TOLAC rate was 29.62%(614/2 073)from July 2013 to June 2016, and the VBAC rate was 82.6%(507/614). The cesarean section rate was reduced by VBAC by 3.147%(507/16 112).(2)The comparison of adverse maternal outcomes: in the VBAC group, the postpartum hemorrhage volume was(431±299)ml, the rate of postpartum fever was 6.4%(31/481), the birth weight of the neonates was(3 085± 561)g, and the rate of large for gestational age was 2.9%(14/481). All were significantly lower than those in the failed TOLAC group and the ERCS group(P<0.05). There was no significant difference in other adverse maternal outcomes[the uterine rupture rate(0.2% ,1/481), the bladder injury rate(0), the proportion of postpartum hemorrhage volume≥1 500 ml(1.0%, 5/481), the blood transfusion rate(3.7%, 18/481)]and adverse perinatal outcomes[the rate of neonatal 5-minute Apgar score<7(0.4%, 21/481), the rate of umbilical arterial pH<7.0(0.6% , 3/481), the rate of the NICU admission and the perinatal mortality rate(12.3%, 59/481)]among the 3 groups(P>0.05). Multiple logistic regression showed no association between VBAC and admission to the NICU(OR=0.84, 95%CI: 0.58-1.21). The isolated risk factors for admission to the NICU were preterm birth(OR=16.71, 95% CI: 11.44-24.40), hypertensive disorder complicating pregnamcy(OR=3.89, 95% CI: 2.39-6.35), meconium stained amniotic fluid(OR=2.48, 95% CI: 1.62-3.80), small for gestational age(OR=2.00, 95% CI: 1.19-3.36)and diabetes mellitus(OR=1.69, 95% CI: 1.14-2.50). Conclusions: VBAC reduces cesarean section rate, with good outcomes in both mother and neonate. It is a safe and feasible way of labor in women with only one cesarean section history.

Butyrylcholinesterase regulates central ghrelin signaling and has an impact on food intake and glucose homeostasis

Background:

Ghrelin is the only orexigenic hormone known to stimulate food intake and promote obesity and insulin resistance. We recently showed that plasma ghrelin is controlled by butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), which has a strong impact on feeding and weight gain. BChE knockout (KO) mice are prone to obesity on high-fat diet, but hepatic BChE gene transfer rescues normal food intake and obesity resistance. However, these mice lack brain BChE and still develop hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance, suggesting essential interactions between BChE and ghrelin within the brain.

Methods:

To test the hypothesis we used four experimental groups: (1) untreated wild-type mice, (2) BChE KO mice with LUC delivered by adeno-associated virus (AAV) in combined intravenous (i.v.) and intracerebral (i.c.) injections, (3) KO mice given AAV for mouse BChE (i.v. only) and (4) KO mice given the same vector both i.v. and i.c. All mice ate a 45% calorie high-fat diet from the age of 1 month. Body weight, body composition, daily caloric intake and serum parameters were monitored throughout, and glucose tolerance and insulin tolerance tests were performed at intervals.

Results:

Circulating ghrelin levels dropped substantially in the KO mice after i.v. AAV–BChE delivery, which led to normal food intake and healthy body weight. BChE KO mice that received AAV–BChE through i.v. and i.c. combined treatments not only resisted weight gain on high-fat diet but also retained normal glucose and insulin tolerance.

Conclusions:

These data indicate a central role for BChE in regulating both insulin and glucose homeostasis. BChE gene transfer could be a useful therapy for complications linked to diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance.

The miR-487b-3p/GRM3/TGFβ signaling axis is an important regulator of colon cancer tumorigenesis

Molecular targeting is an import strategy to treat advanced colon cancer. The current study demonstrates that expression of GRM3, a metabotropic glutamate receptor mainly expressed in mammalian central nervous system, is significantly upregulated in majority of human colonic adenocarcinomas tested and colon cancer cell lines. Knockdown of GRM3 expression or inhibition of GRM3 activation in colon cancer cells reduces cell survival and anchorage-independent growth in vitro and inhibits tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, GRM3 antagonizes TGFβ-mediated activation of protein kinase A and inhibition of AKT. In addition, TGFβ signaling increases GRM3 protein stability and knockdown of GRM3 enhances TGFβ-mediated tumor suppressor function. Further studies indicate that miR-487b-3p directly targets GRM3. Overexpression of miR-487b-3p mimics the effects of GRM3 knockdown and suppresses the tumorigenicity of colon cancer cells in vivo. Expression of miR-487b-3p is decreased in colon adenocarcinomas and inversely correlates with GRM3 expression. Taken together, these studies indicate that upregulation of GRM3 expression is a functionally important molecular event in colon cancer, and that GRM3 is a promising molecular target for colon cancer treatment. This is particularly interesting and important from a therapeutic standpoint because numerous metabotropic glutamate receptor antagonists are available, many of which have been found unsuitable for treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders for reasons such as inability to readily penetrate blood brain barriers. Since GRM3 is upregulated in colon cancer, but rarely expressed in normal peripheral tissues, targeting GRM3 with such agents would not likely cause adverse neurological or peripheral side effects, making GRM3 an attractive and specific molecular target for colon cancer treatment.

Significantly enhanced creep resistance of low volume fraction in-situ TiBw/Ti6Al4V composites by architectured network reinforcements

We present a new class of TiBw/Ti6Al4V composites with a network reinforcement architecture that exhibits a significant creep resistance compared to monolithic Ti6Al4V alloys. Creep tests performed at temperatures between 773 K and 923 K and stress range of 100 MPa-300 MPa indicate both a significant improvement of the composites creep resistance due to the network architecture made by the TiB whiskers (TiBw), and a decrease of the steady-state creep rates by augmenting the local volume fractions of TiBw in the network region. The deformation behavior is driven by a diffusion-controlled dislocation climb process. Moreover, the activation energies of these composites are significantly higher than that of Ti6Al4V alloys, indicating a higher creep resistance. The increase of the activation energy can be attributed to the TiBw architecture that severely impedes the movements of dislocation and grain boundary sliding and provides a tailoring of the stress transfer. These micromechanical mechanisms lead to a remarkable improvement of the creep resistance of these networked TiBw/Ti6Al4V composites featuring the special networked architecture.

Controllable two-scale network architecture and enhanced mechanical properties of (Ti5Si3+TiBw)/Ti6Al4V composites

Novel Ti6Al4V alloy matrix composites with a controllable two-scale network architecture were successfully fabricated by reaction hot pressing (RHP). TiB whiskers (TiBw) were in-situ synthesized around the Ti6Al4V matrix particles, and formed the first-scale network structure (FSNS). Ti₅Si₃ needles (Ti₅Si₃) precipitated in the β phase around the equiaxed α phase, and formed the secondary-scale network structure (SSNS). This resulted in increased deformation compatibility accompanied with enhanced mechanical properties. Apart from the reinforcement distribution and the volume fraction, the ratio between Ti₅Si₃ and TiBw fraction were controlled. The prepared (Ti₅Si₃ + TiBw)/Ti6Al4V composites showed higher tensile strength and ductility than the composites with a one-scale microstructure, and superior wear resistance over the Ti6Al4V alloy under dry sliding wear conditions at room temperature.

The 341C/T polymorphism in the GSTP1 gene and lung cancer risk: a meta-analysis

Numerous studies have evaluated the association between the 341C/T polymorphism in glutathione S-transferase P1 (GSTP1) and lung cancer risk. However, there are conflicting results from previous studies. To derive a more precise estimation of the association, we conducted this meta-analysis. A comprehensive search was conducted to identify the eligible studies examining the GSTP1 341C/T polymorphism and lung cancer risk. We used odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to assess the strength of the association. The meta-analysis results showed that the GSTP1 341C/T polymorphism was significantly associated with lung cancer risk (TT vs CC: OR = 3.33, 95%CI = 1.49-7.44; CT vs CC: OR = 1.35, 95%CI = 1.10-1.65; dominant model: OR = 1.43, 95%CI = 1.05-1.96; recessive model: OR = 0.31, 95%CI = 0.14-0.70). The results indicate that the GSTP1 341C/T polymorphism may contribute to lung cancer risk. Conclusive evidence on the effects of this variant in lung cancer should be addressed in further studies.

[Preliminary study for the roles and mechanisms of 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 and PEG-PLGA-Rg3 nanoparticles in the Lewis lung cancer mice]

OBJECTIVE

To comparatively observe the effects of 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 and PEG-PLGA-Rg3 nanoparticles on the Lewis lung cancer mice and to explore the mechanisms of Rg3 and PEG-PLGA-Rg3 nanoparticle anti-cancer in vivo.

METHODS

Lewis lung cancer mouse model was established and 60 mice were randomly divided into 5 groups with twelve in each group: PEG-PLGA-Rg3 nanoparticles group(Rg3-N), PEG-PLGA group (PEG), Rg3 group (Rg3), normal control group(C), saline control group(NS), and received intragastric administration for 14 days. The weights of the mice were measured every 2 days and the weight curves were obtained. At the same time, the color pattern, activity and mental status were observed. The mice were sacrificed when the administration was over, and the effects of 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 and PEG-PLGA-Rg3 nanoparticles on tumor weight, and the tumor:weight ratios were analysed. In addition, the tumor microvessel density (MVD) was measured by immunohistochemical staining with anti-CD31 antibody to compare the effects of Rg3 and PEG-PLGA-Rg3 nanoparticles on the tumor angiogenesis in vivo. Furthermore, the levels of such angiogenesis and proliferation factors as MMP-9, HIF-1α, VEGF, Ki-67 were examined by RT-PCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry to explore the internal molecular mechanisms of anti-tumor effects in vivo.

RESULTS

The trends of variation of the mice weights in NS group and PEG group were rising early but declining later. In contrast, the trends of the other three groups were rising early and became stable later. In comparison with NS group, the mice of Rg3 group and Rg3-N group had better general status: brighter color, more active and better spirit. Compared with NS group,the tumor weight in PEG group, Rg3 group and Rg3-N group showed no significant difference but the tumor:weight ratio and MVD in Rg3 group and Rg3-N group declined significantly (P<0.01). Besides, there was no significant difference between Rg3 group and Rg3-N group. At the same time, the level of VEGF mRNA, the protein expression of MMP-9, HIF-1α, VEGF in Rg3 group and Rg3-N group decreased compared with NS group. Furthermore, the level of each index above-mentioned in Rg3-N group was lower than that in Rg3 group. The expression of Ki-67 in PEG group, Rg3 group and Rg3-N group showed no significant difference compared with NS group.

CONCLUSION

Rg3 and PEG-PLGA-Rg3 nanoparticle may suppress the expression of VEGF, MMP-9 and HIF-1α in Lewis lung cancer mice, thereby indirectly contributing to their antitumor effects and alleviating the mice's general status. In addition, PEG-PLGA nanoparticles embedding can promote Rg3 antitumor effect in vivo.

Dynamic heterogeneity and non-Gaussian statistics for acetylcholine receptors on live cell membrane

The Brownian motion of molecules at thermal equilibrium usually has a finite correlation time and will eventually be randomized after a long delay time, so that their displacement follows the Gaussian statistics. This is true even when the molecules have experienced a complex environment with a finite correlation time. Here, we report that the lateral motion of the acetylcholine receptors on live muscle cell membranes does not follow the Gaussian statistics for normal Brownian diffusion. From a careful analysis of a large volume of the protein trajectories obtained over a wide range of sampling rates and long durations, we find that the normalized histogram of the protein displacements shows an exponential tail, which is robust and universal for cells under different conditions. The experiment indicates that the observed non-Gaussian statistics and dynamic heterogeneity are inherently linked to the slow-active remodelling of the underlying cortical actin network.

WITHDRAWN: Natural Killer Cell Activating Receptor NKG2D Is Involved in the Immunosuppressant Effect of Mycophenolate Mofetil and Infection of Hepatitis B Virus

In this study we investigated whether mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), a new immunosuppressant, and its metabolite mycophenolic acid (MPA) influence the activity of liver resident natural killer (NK) cells, resulting in increased susceptibility to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. We isolated the hepatic NK cells of C57BL/6 and C57BL/6JTgN (A1b1HBV) 44Bri) transgenic mice administered MMF in the presence or absence of interleukin (IL)-15, or incubated isolated hepatic NK cells in the presence or absence of MPA and used RT-PCR, immunolabeling to assess the expression of NK receptors Ly49A, NKG2A and NKG2D, and cytokine ELISA and [(3)H]-TdR-release assay to assess the activation and cytotoxic capacity of NK cells. After treatment of MMF in the presence or absence of IL-15, HBsAg titer was also measured in C57BL/6JTgN (A1b1HBV) 44Bri) transgenic mice. After both MPA and MMF treatments, NK cytotoxicity was reduced, NKG2D and Ly49A expression was down-regulated, but NKG2A was up-regulated. Down-regulation of NKG2D could be ameliorated by IL-15, and in HBV-transgenic mice, MMF treatment impaired NK cell activity, but did not influence virus replication, whereas IL-15 treatment depressed HBsAg titer. MPA and MMF mediate down-regulation of NKG2D in vitro and vivo, restricting the cytotoxic capacity of NK cells. Regulation of NKG2D may be important in the effect of immunosuppressant on NK cell activity and involved in HBV infection.

A long non-coding RNA interacts with Gfra1 and maintains survival of mouse spermatogonial stem cells

Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are unique male germline stem cells that support spermatogenesis and male fertility. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) have been identified as key regulators of stem cell fate; however, their role in SSCs has not been explored. Here, we report that a novel spermatogonia-specific lncRNA (lncRNA033862) is essential for the survival of murine SSCs. LncRNA033862 is expressed in early spermatogonia including SSC and was among 805 lncRNAs identified by global expression profiling as responsive to glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), a growth factor required for SSC self-renewal and survival. LncRNA033862 is an antisense transcript of the GDNF receptor alpha1 (Gfra1) that lacks protein coding potential and regulates Gfra1 expression levels by interacting with Gfra1 chromatin. Importantly, lncRNA033862 knockdown severely impairs SSC survival and their capacity to repopulate recipient testes in a transplantation assay. Collectively, our data provide the first evidence that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate SSC fate.

HPV16 E6 mutations and p53 codon72 polymorphism among women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2 and 3 in China

OBJECTIVE

To study the distribution of HPV16 E6 gene mutations and p53 codon72 polymorphism among women with HPV16+ cervical precancerous lesions and explore their relationship with the risk of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) 2, 3. Materials and Meth- ods: This study analyzed a total of 112 cases of exfoliated HPV16+ cervical cell specimens which were divided into group I (normal and CIN1, 55 cases) and group2 (CIN2, 3, 57 cases). Among the 112 specimens, 85 cases were successfully amplified for HPV E6 gene by PCR and the PCR products were sequenced directly. P53 codon72 region was also amplified from the 112 specimens and the PCR products were sequenced directly and compared with the standard sequence.

RESULTS

Among the 85 amplified HPV sequences, point mutations such as T178G, T350G, G132A, A442C, T310G, G94T, C551A, etc. were found, among which, T178G showed the highest rate (51.76%). The rate of HPV16 E6 mutation T178G in CIN2, 3 group was significantly higher than that in normal and CINI group, i.e., in the 112 amplified p53 codon72 sequences, the distribution of Pro/Pro genotype in normal, and CIN1 group was significantly different from that in CIN2, 3 groups, and the disease risk of Pro/Pro genotype was much higher than that of Arg/Arg and Arg/Pro genotypes.

CONCLUSION

HPV16 E6 T178G mutation increases the disease risk of CIN2, 3. Meanwhile, compared with Arg/Arg and Arg/Pro genotypes, p53 codon72 Pro/Pro genotype more associated with the disease risk of CIN2, 3.