The Role of Inflammasome in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm and Its Potential Drugs

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) has been recognized as a serious chronic inflammatory degenerative aortic disease in recent years. At present, there is no other effective intervention except surgical treatment for AAA. With the aging of the human population, its incidence is increasing year by year, posing a serious threat to human health. Modern studies suggest that vascular chronic inflammatory response is the core process in AAA occurrence and development. Inflammasome, a multiprotein complex located in the cytoplasm, mediates the expression of various inflammatory cytokines like interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18, and thus plays a pivotal role in inflammation regulation. Therefore, inflammasome may exert a crucial influence on the progression of AAA. This article reviews some mechanism studies to investigate the role of inflammasome in AAA and then summarizes several potential drugs targeting inflammasome for the treatment of AAA, aiming to provide new ideas for the clinical prevention and treatment of AAA beyond surgical methods.

[Analysis of related factors influencing the detection rate of mosaic embryo and the pregnancy outcomes with mosaic embryo transfers]

Objective: To explore the related factors influencing the detection rate of mosaic embryo and the pregnancy outcomes of mosaic embryo transfer in preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) based on next generation sequencing (NGS) technology. Methods: A retrospective study was performed to analyze the clinical data of patients in 745 PGT-A cycles from January 2019 to May 2023 at Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, including 2 850 blastocysts. The biopsy cells were tested using NGS technology, and the embryos were divided into three groups based on the test results, namely euploid embryos, aneuploid embryos and mosaic embryos. The influence of population characteristics and laboratory-related parameters on the detection rate of mosaic embryo were analyzed, and the pregnancy outcomes of 98 mosaic embryo transfer cycles and 486 euploid embryo transfer cycles were compared during the same period, including clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate. Results: Among the embryos tested (n=2 850), the number and proportion of euploid embryos, aneuploid embryos and mosaic embryos were 1 489 (52.2%, 1 489/2 850), 917 (32.2%, 917/2 850) and 444 (15.6%, 444/2 850), respectively. Among mosaic embryos, 245 (55.2%, 245/444) were segmental mosaic embryos, 118 (26.6%, 118/444) were whole-chromosome mosaic embryos, and 81 (18.2%, 81/444) were complex mosaic embryos. NGS technology was performed in 4 genetic testing institutions and the detection rate of mosaic embryo fluctuated from 13.5% to 27.0%. The distributions of female age, level of anti-Müllerian hormone, PGT-A indications, ovulation-inducing treatments, gonadotropin (Gn) dosage, Gn days, inner cell mass grade, trophectoderm cell grade, genetic testing institutions and developmental stage of blastocyst were significantly different among the three groups (all P<0.05). Multi-factor analysis showed that the trophectoderm cell grade and genetic testing institutions were significantly related to the detection rate of mosaic embryo; compared with the trophectoderm cell graded as A, the detection rate of mosaic embryo was significantly increased in the trophectoderm cell graded as B-(OR=1.59, 95%CI: 1.04-2.44, P=0.033); compared with genetic testing institution a, the detection rate of mosaic embryo was significantly higher (OR=2.89, 95%CI: 2.10-3.98, P<0.001) in the testing institution c. The clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate with mosaic embryos transfer were significantly lower than those of euploid embryos transfer (clinical pregnancy rate: 51.0% vs 65.2%, P=0.008; live birth rate: 39.4% vs 53.2%, P=0.017). After adjustment for age, PGT-A indications, trophectoderm cell grade and days of embryo culture in vitro, the clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate with mosaic embryos transfer were significantly lower than those of euploid embryos transfer (clinical pregnancy rate: OR=0.52, 95%CI: 0.32-0.83, P=0.007; live birth rate: OR=0.50, 95%CI: 0.31-0.83, P=0.007). Conclusions: The trophectoderm cell grade and genetic testing institutions are related to the detection rate of mosaic embryo. Compared with euploid embryos transfer, the clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate with mosaic embryos transfer are significantly reduced. For infertile couple without euploid embryos, transplantable mosaic embryos could be recommended according to the mosaic ratio and mosaic type in genetic counseling to obtain the optimal pregnancy outcome.

Dapagliflozin alleviates high glucose-induced injury of endothelial cells via inducing autophagy

Hyperglycaemia is a key factor in the progression of diabetes complications. Dapagliflozin (DAPA), a new type of hypoglycaemic agent, has been shown to play an important role in anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Previous studies have demonstrated an endothelial protective effect of DAPA, but the underlying mechanism was still unclear. Autophagy is a homeostatic cellular mechanism that circulates unfolded proteins and damaged organelles through lysosomal dependent degradation. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether DAPA plays a protective role against high glucose (HG)-induced endothelial injury through regulating autophagy. The results showed that DAPA treatment resulted in increased cell viability. Additionally, DAPA treatment decreased interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumour necrosis factor-α levels in endothelial cells subjected to HG conditions. We observed that HG inhibited autophagy, and DAPA increased the autophagy level by inhibiting the protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signalling pathway. Chloroquine reversed all of these beneficial effects as an autophagy inhibitor. In summary, the endothelial protective effect of DAPA in HG can be attributed in part to its role in activating of autophagy via the AKT/mTOR signalling pathway. Therefore, suggesting that the activation of autophagy by DAPA may be a novel target for the treatment of HG-induced endothelial cell injury.

Design a dual-response two-photon fluorescent probe for simultaneous imaging of mitochondrial viscosity and peroxynitrite in a thrombosis model

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism is a sudden cardiovascular disease that can lead to death, and its pathologic development is closely related to vascular viscosity and inflammation. However, direct evidence from in vivo is really scarce. The key limitation is that the combined probes cannot detect multiple markers simultaneously, which may lead to unreliable results. Therefore, to develop a single probe that can simultaneously monitor the variations of viscosity in the vascular microenvironment as well as inflammation level during venous thrombosis.

RESULTS

A dual-responsive two-photon fluorescent probe, Cou-ONOO, was designed and synthesized. Cou-ONOO provides a visualization tool for monitoring the viscosity of the vascular as well as the inflammatory marker ONOO‾ during thromboembolism via dual-channel simultaneous imaging. As a single probe that can recognize dual targets, Cou-ONOO effectively avoids the problems from unreliable results caused by complex synthesis and differences in intracellular localization, diffusion, and metabolism of different dyes as using combinatorial probes. Using Cou-ONOO, simultaneous imaging the variations of viscosity and ONOO‾at the cellular and tissue levels was successfully performed. In addition, Cou-ONOO also successfully visualized and tracked the viscosity of the vascular microenvironment and ONOO‾ during venous embolism in mice.

SIGNIFICANCE

Experimental results show that both viscosity and inflammation are abnormally overexpressed in the microenvironment at the thrombus site during venous thrombosis. An intuitive visualization tool to elucidate the variations of viscosity as well as inflammation level in the vascular microenvironment during thrombosis was provided, which will facilitate a better clinical understanding of the pathological process of thrombosis.

Individual perceptions of community efficacy for non-communicable disease management in twelve communities in China: cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses

OBJECTIVES

This objective of this study was to use empirical data to assess cross-sectional variation singular and changes over time in community efficacy for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) management (COEN) and to examine individual factors associated with changes in COEN.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a longitudinal observational study.

METHODS

Participants with hypertension and diabetes were randomly selected from 12 communities from three cities in eastern China, and a baseline survey and a 1-year follow-up were conducted. The COEN scale has five dimensions: community physical environment (CPE), behavioral risk factors (BRF), mental health and social relationships (MHSR), community health management (CHM), and community organisations and activities (COA). Mixed-effects models were used to investigate the change in COEN over time and the association between individual factors and changes in COEN.

RESULTS

COEN scores showed significant variation singular among the 12 communities (P < 0.001) at the baseline. In the mixed-effects model, CPE (β coefficient: 1.62, P < 0.001), BRF (0.90, P < 0.001), MHSR (0.86, P < 0.001), CHM (0.46, P < 0.001), and total scores (β = 3.57, P < 0.001) increased significantly over time. The changes in COEN were associated with individual characteristics (e.g., older, men, more educated).

CONCLUSIONS

Cross-sectional variations and changes over time in COEN demonstrated the utility of a sensitive instrument. Factors such as age, gender, marriage, education level, and employment may affect the financial and social resources assignment for NCD management. Our findings suggest that further high-quality studies are needed to better evaluate the effect of community empowerment on the prevention and control of NCDs.

Association of cardiometabolic multimorbidity and adherence to a healthy lifestyle with incident dementia: a large prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

The co-occurrence of cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs) is increasingly prevalent and has been associated with an additive risk of dementia in older adults, but the extent to which this risk can be offset by a healthy lifestyle is unknown. We aimed to examine the associations of cardiometabolic multimorbidity and lifestyle with incident dementia and related brain structural changes.

METHODS

This prospective study extracted health and lifestyle data from 171 538 UK Biobank participants aged 60 years or older without dementia at baseline between 2006 and 2010 and followed up until July 2021, as well as brain structural data in a nested imaging subsample of 11 972 participants. Cardiometabolic multimorbidity was defined as the presence of two or more CMDs among type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, and hypertension. Lifestyle patterns were determined based on 7 modifiable lifestyle factors including smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity, diet, sleep duration, sedentary behavior, and social contact.

RESULTS

Over a median follow-up of 12.3 years, 4479 (2.6%) participants developed dementia. The presence of CMDs was dose-dependently associated with an increased risk of dementia. Compared with participants with no CMDs and a favourable lifestyle, those with ≥ 3 CMDs and an unfavourable lifestyle had a five times greater risk of developing dementia (HR 5.33, 95% CI 4.26-6.66). A significant interaction was found between CMD status and lifestyle (Pinteraction=0.001). The absolute difference in incidence rates of dementia per 1000 person years comparing favourable versus unfavourable lifestyle was - 0.65 (95% CI - 1.02 to - 0.27) among participants with no CMDs and - 5.64 (- 8.11 to - 3.17) among participants with ≥ 3 CMDs, corresponding to a HR of 0.71 (0.58-0.88) and 0.42 (0.28-0.63), respectively. In the imaging subsample, a favourable lifestyle was associated with larger total brain, grey matter, and hippocampus volumes across CMD status.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that adherence to a healthy lifestyle might substantially attenuate dementia risk and adverse brain structural changes associated with cardiometabolic multimorbidity.

Perspective of SGLT2i in the Treatment of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

ABSTRACT

The incidence of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) in the elderly is increasing year by year with high mortality. Current treatment is mainly through surgery or endovascular intervention, which is not sufficient to reduce future risk. Therefore, we still need to find an effective conservative measure as an adjunct therapy or early intervention to prevent AAA progression. Traditional therapeutic agents, such as β-receptor blockers, calcium channel blockers, and statins, have been shown to have limited effects on the growth of AAA. Recently, sodium-glucose cotransport proteins inhibitors (SGLT2is), a new class hypoglycemic drug, have shown outstanding beneficiary effects on cardiovascular diseases by plasma volume reduction, vascular tone regulation, and various unidentified mechanisms. It has been demonstrated that SGLT2i is abundantly expressed in the aorta, and some studies also showed promising results of SGLT2i in treating animal AAA models. This article aims to summarize the recent progress of AAA studies and look forward to the application of SGLT2i in AAA treatment for early intervention or adjunct therapy after surgical repair or stent graft.

The health system and health impacts of primary healthcare reform in China: A systematic review

Background

China has undergone a comprehensive primary healthcare(PHC) reform since 2009 aiming to deliver accessible, higher-quality, and equitable healthcare. However, there is limited understanding of the effectiveness of this reform. This systematic review synthesizes evidence on health system and health impacts of this reform.

Methods

We searched 13 international databases and three Chinese databases for quantitative studies assessing the impacts of this reform published between January 2009 and March 2020. We searched for studies in English or Mandarin. Eligible study designs were RCTs, quasi-experimental studies and controlled before-after studies. We included studies that: assessed PHC policies since 2009; had geographical, temporal or population comparators; and assessed any outcome measures of health expenditures, health service utilisation, quality of care or health outcomes. Study quality was assessed using ROBINS-I, and results synthesized narratively. PROSPERO: CRD42021239991.

Results

Of 35,480 titles, 37 studies were included (27 in English and ten in Mandarin). Eight were considered at low risk of bias. The 37 studies covered all major PHC policies since 2009, but mostly focused on the essential medicine (N = 15) and financing (N = 10). The quantity and quality of studies on service delivery policies(e.g., family physician and essential health services), were low(N = 3,with moderate or serious risk of bias). 17 studies found that the PHC reforms promoted primary care utilisation. Its impacts on quality and health improvement appear limited to people with chronic diseases(N = 11). Evidence on primary care costs and OOPs were not clear. Some evidence showed that the reforms were pro-equity with benefits accrued in disadvantaged regions and groups.

Conclusions

Comprehensive PHC reforms can deliver some benefits related to utilisation and health for high-risk and vulnerable populations. Policymakers should continue to prioritize PHC to achieve Universal Health Coverage.

Key messages

• The finding suggests that large-scale and comprehensive primary healthcare reforms can deliver benefits related to utilisation and health for high-risk and vulnerable populations.

• Future research should include more robust study designs and seek to better understand the impact of major PHC reforms on quality of care, health outcomes and equity.

[Clinical effects of free superficial peroneal artery perforator flaps in repairing skin and soft tissue defects of the hallux]

Objective: To explore the clinical effects of free superficial peroneal artery perforator flaps in repairing skin and soft tissue defects of the hallux. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted. From January 2020 to January 2021, 13 patients with skin and soft tissue defects of the hallux who met the inclusion criteria were admitted to Department of Foot and Ankle Surgery of Ruihua Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, including 12 males and 1 female, aged 26 to 53 years. Before operation, the perforating point of the superficial peroneal artery perforator was located by color Doppler ultrasound on the calf on the same side of the affected hallux and marked on the body surface. The operation was performed under spinal anesthesia combined with continuous epidural anesthesia. The area of skin and soft tissue defect after debridement was 4.5 cm×2.5 cm to 12.0 cm×3.0 cm. According to the size and shape of the wound, the superficial peroneal artery perforator flap was designed with the line between the fibular head and the lateral malleolus tip parallel shifting 2 cm to the tibial side as the flap axis line, and the perforating point of the perforator near the midpoint of the axis line as the center. The cut area of the flap was 5.0 cm×3.0 cm to 13.0 cm×4.0 cm, and part of the deep fascia was cut when the pedicle was freed. The donor site wound was sutured directly. During the operation, the number and type of the perforator and the cutting time of the flap were recorded, and the length of the perforator pedicle and diameter of the perforator were measured. The survival of the flap, the healing time and the healing condition of the donor and recipient areas were recorded after operation. The color, texture, elasticity of the flap, standing and walking functions of patients, the recovery of the donor area, and the patients' satisfaction with the recovery of the donor and recipient areas were recorded during the follow-up. At the last follow-up, the sensation of the flap was evaluated by the British Medical Association sensory function evaluation standard, the function of the affected limb was evaluated by the American Society of Foot and Ankle Surgery scoring system, and the excellent and good rate of the function of the affected limb was calculated. Results: A total of 13 perforators of the superficial peroneal artery were detected during the operation, all of which were septocutaneous perforators, and the perforator diameter was 0.3 to 0.5 mm. The vascular pedicle length was 2 to 5 cm. Flap cutting time was 11 to 26 minutes. The flaps of 13 patients all survived completely. The wounds at the donor and recipient sites healed well 9 to 18 days after operation. During follow-up of 6 to 14 months, the flaps had good color, texture, and elasticity; 11 patients had no obvious bloated appearance, and the other 2 patients underwent flap thinning and plastic surgery in the second stage because of their bloated appearance; all the patients returned to normal walking and standing functions. There was only one linear scar left in the donor site, with no obvious scar hyperplasia or hyperpigmentation. All the patients were satisfied with the recovery of the donor and recipient areas. At the last follow-up, the sensation of the flap was evaluated as grade S3 in 2 cases, grade S2 in 9 cases, and grade S1 in 2 cases; the function of the affected limb was evaluated as excellent in 7 cases and good in 6 cases, with an excellent and good rate of 100%. Conclusions: The free superficial peroneal artery perforator flap has relatively constant vascular anatomy, which is thin and wear-resistant, with less damage to the donor site after flap excision, and can preserve the shape and function of the hallux to the greatest extent. It is an effective method for repairing skin and soft tissue defect of the hallux.

Case Report: Simultaneous Ascending Aortic Dissection and Pulmonary Artery Dissection Combined by Aortopulmonary Fistula After Aortic Valve Replacement

Aortopulmonary fistula with/without pulmonary artery dissection is an extremely rare and fatal complication of acute aortic dissection and is often discovered postmortem. We present a case with a simultaneous ascending aortic dissection and pulmonary artery dissection combined by aortopulmonary fistula after aortic valve surgery. However, the patient died of postoperative complications after surgery. Herein, the anatomical basis for this rare entity and its outcome is explored with an emphasis.

Exosomal long non-coding RNA LIPCAR derived from oxLDL-treated THP-1 cells regulates the proliferation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells and human vascular smooth muscle cells

BACKGROUND

It has been reported that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) LIPCAR is involved in the progression of atherosclerosis. However, the mechanism underlying the effects of LIPCAR on regulating the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis remains unclear.

METHODS

Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR was performed to detect the levels of LIPCAR in the plasma of patients with atherosclerosis and in THP-1 macrophages. THP-1 cells were stimulated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) to induce foam cell formation. Furthermore, Transwell assay was carried out to evaluate the migration ability of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs).

RESULTS

The expression of LIPCAR in the plasma of patients with atherosclerosis was significantly higher compared with that in healthy subjects, while LIPCAR knockdown notably reversed ox-LDL-induced THP-1 cell apoptosis. In addition, LIPCAR was upregulated in exosomes derived from THP-1 cells treated with ox-LDL (THP-1/ox-LDL Exo). Furthermore, THP-1/ox-LDL Exo significantly increased the expression levels of CDK2 and proliferative cell nuclear antigen in human VSMCs, while these effects were reversed following LIPCAR silencing.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study suggested that exosomal lncRNA LIPCAR derived from ox-LDL modified THP-1 cells could promote the progression of atherosclerosis. Therefore, LIPCAR may be considered as a novel biomarker for the development of new strategies to treat atherosclerosis.

Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair for Retrograde Type A Aortic Intramural Hematoma

Objectives: To evaluate the effects of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) in descending aorta for retrograde type A aortic intramural hematoma (re-TAIMH).

Methods: From January 2013 to September 2019, 65 consecutive patients diagnosed with re-TAIMH and treated by TEVAR were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study, of whom 44 patients presented with entry tear in descending aorta (Group A) and 21 with penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer (Group B). The clinical data, including baseline characteristics, adverse events, aortic remolding, and overall survival were reviewed.

Results: The mean age of all the patients was 52.0 ± 8.3 years, and 54 (83.1%) patients were men. The mean maximal ascending aortic diameter (MAAD) was 43.1 ± 5.4 mm, and the mean maximal ascending aortic hematoma thickness (MAAHT) was 9.6 ± 4.7 mm. TEVAR was performed under general anesthesia in 53 (81.5%) patients, while 12 (18.5%) patients were treated under local anesthesia. There were two deaths during hospitalization (one with rupture and another with multiple organ dysfunction syndrome), and overall survival at 1, 4, and 7 years for all 65 patients was 93.8, 92.0, and 87.4%, respectively. The MAAD and MAATH decreased significantly after TEVAR (p < 0.05) in the two groups, so did the mean descending aortic diameter at the pulmonary bifurcation level. Type I endoleak, dialysis, progression to type A aortic dissection, and enlargement in MAAHT and MAAD were more common complications, which occurred in four, three, two, and two patients, respectively.

Conclusion: Patients with retrograde TAIMH treated by TEVAR had a favorable prognosis including late survival and aortic remolding. However, some post-intervention complications were not negligible.

The single nucleotide polymorphism rs11643718 in SLC12A3 is associated with the development of diabetic kidney disease in Chinese people with type 2 diabetes

AIMS

To examine the association between 24 literature-based single nucleotide polymorphisms and diabetic kidney disease in Chinese people with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Twenty-four candidate diabetic kidney disease-susceptible single nucleotide polymorphisms were genotyped in 208 participants with type 2 diabetes and diabetic kidney disease and 200 participants with type 2 diabetes without diabetic kidney disease (case and control groups, respectively), together with 206 healthy participants using MassARRAY. Rs11643718 in the SLC12A3 gene was associated with diabetic kidney disease in the recessive model after adjusting for confounding factors, such as age and gender (adjusted odds ratio 2.056, 95% CI 1.120-3.776; P = 0.020). Meta-analyses further confirmed the association (P = 0.002). In addition, participants with the GG genotype had worse renal function and more albuminuria than those with the AA+AG genotype (P < 0.05). Renal section immunohistochemistry was conducted in participants with type 2 diabetes, diabetic kidney disease and AA+AG or GG genotypes and in participants with glomerular minor lesions. Together with data from the Nephroseq database, it was shown that the abundance of SLC12A3 was reduced in patients with the GG genotype, while elevated expression of SLC12A3 was associated with better renal function. In addition, rs10951509 and rs1345365 in ELMO1, which were determined to be in high linkage disequilibrium by SHEsis software, were also associated with diabetic kidney disease (adjusted P = 0.010 and 0.015, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The G allele and GG genotype of SLC12A3 rs11643718 are associated with the development of diabetic kidney disease in a Chinese population with type 2 diabetes.

What Influences the Patients with Left Atrial Myxoma: From Embolism to Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation

BACKGROUND

Preoperative embolism and postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) are two important factors associated with impaired health conditions and increased economic burden in patients with left atrial (LA) myxoma. The aim of this study was to analyze embolic events, identify predictors of POAF, and evaluate the risk of late-term survival in patients with LA myxoma.

METHODS

From December 2009 to December 2019, 177 consecutive patients with LA myxoma who met the selection criteria were included in the retrospective analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of POAF. Propensity score matching was used for confounder control, and Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the risk of late-term mortality.

RESULTS

The study population comprised of 125 patients in non-POAF group and 52 patients in POAF group. Preoperative embolism was present in 27.1% of the all cases. By multivariate analysis, age, NYHA functional class III, LA diameter, and cross-clamp time were identified as independent predictors of in-hospital POAF. The overall survival at 1, 5, and 10 years for the 177 patients was 98.9%, 93.7%, and 84.4%, respectively. There was no statistical difference in late-term survival between the two groups in the Cox proportion-adjusted survival curve. After propensity score 1:1 matching, patients with POAF had a longer postoperative hospital stay and Kaplan-Meier survival curve also showed no statistical difference between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with LA myxoma after surgical treatment had a favorable prognosis. In-hospital POAF was not independently associated with late-term mortality in patients with LA myxoma.

Endovascular repair of type A aortic intramural hematoma accompanied by aberrant right subclavian artery and Kommerell's diverticulum: a case report

Background

The lesions of aberrant right subclavian artery, Kommerell’s diverticulum and type A aortic intramural hematoma are rare, and we usually treat them with open surgery. In some cases patients have increased risk to undergo surgery, the experiences of endovascular or medical treatment are limited.

Case presentation

Here we reported a case of a 53-year-old man with these three entities present with chest and back ache and attempted a novel approach, thoracic endovascular aortic repair, in the absence of surgical treatment. The patient lived over 5 years and this case provides initial experience and lesson about the endovascular and medical management of the uncommon and dangerous disease- type A aortic intramural hematoma with aortic congenital malformation.

Conclusion

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair with medical treatment may be a potential alternative approach for type A aortic intramural hematoma.

Expressions of IL-17 and TNF-α in patients with Hashimoto's disease combined with thyroid cancer before and after surgery and their relationship with prognosis

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate expressions and clinical significance of IL-17 and TNF-α after surgery in patients with Hashimoto's disease (HD) combined with thyroid cancer (TC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From June 2010 to October 2012, 38 patients with HD combined with TC admitted to the oncology department of Tongji Hospital were selected as an experimental group, including three males and 35 females, aged 24-78 years. Forty adults undergoing physical examination during the same period were selected as a control group. All patients in the experimental group were given total endoscopic TC resection. Real-time fluorescence quantification (qRT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to detect the expression levels of serum IL-17 and TNF-α before and 14 days after surgery. Patients with HD combined with TC were divided into high and low expression groups according to the median values of preoperative IL-17 mRNA and TNF-α mRNA. The relationship between IL-17, TNF-α, and prognosis of patients was analyzed through K-M survival curve.

RESULTS

The concentrations of IL-17 and TNF-α in serum were also higher than those in control group 14 days after surgery (p < 0.05). qRT-PCT showed that the relative expressions of IL-17 and TNF-α in serum 14 days after surgery were higher than those in control group (p < 0.05). According to the relative expression median of mRNA in IL-17 and TNF-α before surgery, they were divided into high and low expression groups. It was found that the survival rate of high expression groups of IL-17 and TNF-α was lower than that of low expression groups (IL-17, p = 0.028; TNF-α, p = 0.014).

CONCLUSIONS

The protein and mRNA of IL-17 and TNF-α in serum of HD patients with TC are higher than those of healthy control group. Expressions of IL-17 and TNF-α can be reduced by surgical resection of focal tissue. IL-17 and TNF-α may be used as potential prognostic indicators of HD patients with TC.

[Multiple free homologous superficial peroneal artery perforator flaps of crus for repair of multiple hand wounds]

Objective: To explore the effects of multiple free homologous superficial peroneal artery perforator flaps of crus for repair of multiple hand wounds. Methods: From November 2017 to December 2018, eight cases with eighteen hand wounds were hospitalized in our unit. Among them, wounds were distributed in the forefinger and middle finger in four cases, wounds were distributed in the middle finger and ring finger in two cases, wounds were distributed in the forefinger, middle finger, and ring finger in one case, and wounds were distributed in the middle finger, ring finger, and little finger in one case. The area of skin defect ranged from 1.5 cm×0.8 cm to 4.0 cm×3.0 cm. There were 4 males and 4 females, aged 34-62 years. Wounds of six cases were repaired by two free superficial peroneal artery perforator flaps from homolateral crus, and those of two cases were repaired by three free superficial peroneal artery perforator flaps from homolateral crus. Superficial peroneal artery and its accompanying vein of flap were anastomosed by end to end with digital artery and palmar or dorsal subcutaneous vein of recipient site during the operation. The area of flap ranged from 2.5 cm×1.2 cm to 5.0 cm×4.0 cm. No nerve was harvested during the operation, and donor site was sutured directly. The survival of the flaps and the healing of donor sites were recorded. During follow-up, the recovery of donor and recipient sites was observed. Results: All flaps survived well, donor site healed well. No vascular crisis occurred. Follow-up for 4 to 12 months showed that the appearance of flap was satisfactory with good color, texture, elasticity, and function. Protective sensation of recipient site was recovered. Five months after operation, flap of finger pulp in one case was swollen slightly with two-points discrimination of 10 mm, which received the thinning surgery. Obvious scar formation was not observed in donor site of crus. The appearance of the donor site was good without functional damage. Conclusions: The application of multiple free homologous superficial peroneal artery perforator flaps of crus to repair the multiple hand wounds has advantages of easy acquisition, easy operation, little effect on donor sites, and satisfactory clinical effects.

Molecular mechanism underlying anti-inflammatory activities of lirioresinol B dimethyl ether through suppression of NF-κB and MAPK signaling in in vitro and in vivo models

The aim of the present study is to explore the anti-inflammatory mechanism of lirioresinol B dimethyl ether via inhibition of multiple signaling pathways in both in vitro and in vivo pharmacological models. To determine the anti-inflammatory activity of the lirioresinol B dimethyl ether, RAW 264.7 macrophages challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were treated with various concentrations of lirioresinol B dimethyl ether (5, 15, 25, and 50 μM). The results indicated that pretreatment with lirioresinol B dimethyl ether significantly suppressed nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation, nitric oxide (NO) production, the protein expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Lirioresinol B dimethyl ether inhibited LPS-induced activation of production of pro-inflammatory cytokines as well as prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) release. The results obtained by electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) demonstrated a concentration dependent reduction of the LPS-stimulated activation of NF-κB and activator protein-1 (AP-1) by lirioresinol B dimethyl ether in in vitro and in vivo models. Moreover, lirioresinol B dimethyl ether also reduced the expression of toll-like receptor (TLR)-4 protein and myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88) as well as promoted the degradation of IκBα. Lirioresinol B dimethyl ether also significantly down-regulated the phosphorylation of Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), p-38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Furthermore, the results of acute and chronic inflammation demonstrated that lirioresinol B dimethyl ether (10 and 50 mg per kg) reduced paw edema and mechanical hyperalgesia in carrageenan- and Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA)-induced in vivo mouse models, respectively. Hence, the current results indicate that lirioresinol B dimethyl ether either act by inhibiting pro-inflammatory mediators through down-regulation of mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) signaling pathways and reduction of NF-κB activation.

Administration of activated lymphocyte-derived DNA accelerates and aggravates lupus nephritis in B6/lpr mice: a new approach to modify a lupus murine model

B6/lpr mouse strain is a well-known systemic lupus erythematosus murine model characterized by uncontrolled lymphoproliferation and autoantibody production. However, it displays a delayed and mild development of lupus nephritis (LN), which is not conducive to the research of the pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies of this condition. Our previous study demonstrated that activated lymphocyte-derived DNA (ALD-DNA) could induce high urine protein levels and severe glomerulonephritis (GN) in BALB/c mice. In the present study, we tried to remedy delayed urine protein production and mild GN in B6/lpr mice via ALD-DNA immunization. We found that urine protein levels were enhanced significantly in B6/lpr mice 4 weeks after ALD-DNA immunization compared with those in unactivated lymphocyte-derived (UnALD)-DNA- and phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)-treated controls. Moreover, more serious GN and glomerular immune complex were observed in ALD-DNA-immunized B6/lpr mice. We further explored the mechanism, and found that ALD-DNA immunization promoted T helper type 17 (Th17) cell enrichment remarkably, which enhanced the proportion of autoantibody-secreting plasma cells and promoted the production of anti-dsDNA autoantibodies, leading to accelerated and aggravated LN. Our data demonstrated that ALD-DNA immunization could remedy delayed urine protein production and mild GN in B6/lpr mouse, which makes it more suitable for studies on the pathogenesis of and therapeutic strategies against LN.

Sculpting nanoparticle dynamics for single-bacteria-level screening and direct binding-efficiency measurement

Particle trapping and binding in optical potential wells provide a versatile platform for various biomedical applications. However, implementation systems to study multi-particle contact interactions in an optical lattice remain rare. By configuring an optofluidic lattice, we demonstrate the precise control of particle interactions and functions such as controlling aggregation and multi-hopping. The mean residence time of a single particle is found considerably reduced from 7 s, as predicted by Kramer’s theory, to 0.6 s, owing to the mechanical interactions among aggregated particles. The optofluidic lattice also enables single-bacteria-level screening of biological binding agents such as antibodies through particle-enabled bacteria hopping. The binding efficiency of antibodies could be determined directly, selectively, quantitatively and efficiently. This work enriches the fundamental mechanisms of particle kinetics and offers new possibilities for probing and utilising unprecedented biomolecule interactions at single-bacteria level.

Optical trapping is a versatile tool for biomedical applications. Here, the authors use an optofluidic lattice to achieve controllable multi-particle hopping and demonstrate single-bacteria-level screening and measurement of binding efficiency of biological binding agents through particle-enabled bacteria hopping.

Identification of the Beagle 2 lander on Mars

The 2003 Beagle 2 Mars lander has been identified in Isidis Planitia at 90.43° E, 11.53° N, close to the predicted target of 90.50° E, 11.53° N. Beagle 2 was an exobiology lander designed to look for isotopic and compositional signs of life on Mars, as part of the European Space Agency Mars Express (MEX) mission. The 2004 recalculation of the original landing ellipse from a 3-sigma major axis from 174 km to 57 km, and the acquisition of Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE) imagery at 30 cm per pixel across the target region, led to the initial identification of the lander in 2014. Following this, more HiRISE images, giving a total of 15, including red and blue-green colours, were obtained over the area of interest and searched, which allowed sub-pixel imaging using super high-resolution techniques. The size (approx. 1.5 m), distinctive multilobed shape, high reflectivity relative to the local terrain, specular reflections, and location close to the centre of the planned landing ellipse led to the identification of the Beagle 2 lander. The shape of the imaged lander, although to some extent masked by the specular reflections in the various images, is consistent with deployment of the lander lid and then some or all solar panels. Failure to fully deploy the panels-which may have been caused by damage during landing-would have prohibited communication between the lander and MEX and commencement of science operations. This implies that the main part of the entry, descent and landing sequence, the ejection from MEX, atmospheric entry and parachute deployment, and landing worked as planned with perhaps only the final full panel deployment failing.

The Prognostic Significance of Soluble Programmed Death Ligand 1 Expression in Cancers: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

The differential expression of soluble programmed death ligand 1 (sPD-L1) has been found in some cancers; however, the correlation between sPD-L1 expression and prognosis value in tumour is still unclear. Here, we conducted a meta-analysis and systematic review to assess the prognostic value of sPD-L1 in patients with cancer. Eligible studies were searched for in the databases including PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect and Wiley Online Library database. The pooled hazard ratios (HRs) with a 95% confidence interval (95%CI) were calculated to assess the prognostic significance of sPD-L1 in human cancer. Eight studies and 1102 patients with cancer were included in the final analysis, and the combined analysis indicated that a higher level of sPD-L1 was associated with worse overall survival (OS) (HR = 1.60, 95%CI: 1.21-1.99). Furthermore, statistical significance was also observed in subgroup analysis stratified by the cancer type (haematological neoplasms or non-haematological neoplasms), sample size (more or less than 100), cut-off value of sPD-L1 (more or less than 6.51 ng/ml) and ethnicity (Asian or European). The meta-analysis indicates that circulating sPD-L1 changes may serve as a useful biomarker for cancer prognosis, and higher level of sPD-L1 may also be associated with poor outcomes in patients with cancer.

High-resolution and multi-range particle separation by microscopic vibration in an optofluidic chip

An optofluidic chip is demonstrated in experiments for high-resolution and multi-range particle separation through the optically-induced microscopic vibration effect, where nanoparticles are trapped in loosely overdamped optical potential wells created with combined optical and fluidic constraints. It is the first demonstration of separating single nanoparticles with diameters ranging from 60 to 100 nm with a resolution of 10 nm. Nanoparticles vibrate with an amplitude of 3-7 μm in the loosely overdamped potential wells in the microchannel. The proposed optofluidic device is capable of high-resolution particle separation at both nanoscale and microscale without reconfiguring the device. The separation of bacteria from other larger cells is accomplished using the same chip and operation conditions. The unique trapping mechanism and the superb performance in high-resolution and multi-range particle separation of the proposed optofluidic chip promise great potential for a diverse range of biomedical applications.

Comparative transcriptomic analysis of key genes involved in flavonoid biosynthetic pathway and identification of a flavonol synthase from Artemisia annua L

The regulatory mechanism of flavonoids, which synergise anti-malarial and anti-cancer compounds in Artemisia annua, is still unclear. In this study, an anthocyanidin-accumulating mutant callus was induced from A. annua and comparative transcriptomic analysis of wild-type and mutant calli performed, based on the next-generation Illumina/Solexa sequencing platform and de novo assembly. A total of 82,393 unigenes were obtained and 34,764 unigenes were annotated in the public database. Among these, 87 unigenes were assigned to 14 structural genes involved in the flavonoid biosynthetic pathway and 37 unigenes were assigned to 17 structural genes related to metabolism of flavonoids. More than 30 unigenes were assigned to regulatory genes, including R2R3-MYB, bHLH and WD40, which might regulate flavonoid biosynthesis. A further 29 unigenes encoding flavonoid biosynthetic enzymes or transcription factors were up-regulated in the mutant, while 19 unigenes were down-regulated, compared with the wild type. Expression levels of nine genes involved in the flavonoid pathway were compared using semi-quantitative RT-PCR, and results were consistent with comparative transcriptomic analysis. Finally, a putative flavonol synthase gene (AaFLS1) was identified from enzyme assay in vitro and in vivo through heterogeneous expression, and confirmed comparative transcriptomic analysis of wild-type and mutant callus. The present work has provided important target genes for the regulation of flavonoid biosynthesis in A. annua.

[Study of long non-coding RNA HOTAIR expression in middle ear cholesteatoma]

Objective:To discuss the different expression of some long-chain noncoding RNA between middle ear cholesteatoma epithelial tissue and normal external ear canal skin.Method:Real-time quantitative PCR was used to detect the expression of 6 kinds of lncRNA: HOTAIR, ANCR, TINCR, PRINS, BANCR, PICSAR in 25 cases of cholesteatoma epithelial tissues and 15 cases of normal external auditory canal skin tissue samples, respectively. And compared the expression level of lncRNA in patients with different degree of bone destruction.Result:Expression level of HOTAIR was significantly increased in cholesteatoma epithelial tissues compared with the normal external auditory canal skin tissues,and the difference is statistically significant (P< 0.01). While there was no statistically significant difference expression of the rest of the five kinds of lncRNA between middle ear cholesteatoma epithelial tissues and normal external ear canal skin (P> 0.05). And there was no statistically significant difference expression of HOTAIR in patients with different degree of bone destruction (P> 0.05).Conclusion:Expression level of HOTAIR was up-regulated in middle ear cholesteatoma epithelial tissue compared with the normal external auditory canal skin tissues, and the expression level of HOTAIR has no obvious correlation with degree of bone destruction in patients with cholesteatoma.

Post-directed-self-assembly membrane fabrication for in situ analysis of block copolymer structures

Full characterization of the three-dimensional structures resulting from the directed self-assembly (DSA) of block copolymers (BCP) remains a difficult challenge. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) tomography and resonant soft x-ray scattering have emerged as powerful and complementary methods for through-film characterization; both techniques require samples to be prepared on specialized membrane substrates. Here we report a generalizable process to implement BCP DSA with density multiplication on silicon nitride membranes. A key feature of the process developed here is that it does not introduce any artefacts or damage to the polymer assemblies as DSA is performed prior to back-etched membrane formation. Because most research and applications of BCP lithography are based on silicon substrates, process variations introduced by implementing DSA on a silicon nitride/silicon stack versus silicon were identified and mitigated. Using full-wafers, membranes were fabricated with different sizes and layouts to enable both TEM and x-ray characterization. Finally, both techniques were used to characterize structures resulting from the DSA of lamella-forming BCP with density multiplication.

[The progress of stem cells in the treatment of olfactory dysfunction]

Olfactory dysfunction is one of the common diseases in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology. Although the olfactory nerve has ability to regenerate in human central nervous system, if the damage involves nerve, only a few patients can restore the olfactory function. At present, there is no satisfactory treatment for sensorineural olfactory dysfunction. Therefore, it is urgent to explore new and effective method for treating sensorineural olfactory dysfunction. The progress of stem cells in the treatment of olfactory dysfunction is reviewed in this article.

Abstract P3-03-03: A mouse model of sporadic breast tumor with a conditional P53 mutation

Missense mutations in the tumor suppressor gene p53 are present in more than 50% of human tumors. In particular, the arginine-to-histidine mutation at codon 175 (p53R175H) has been found in more than 4% of human breast cancers. p53 mutations fall into two general categories: germline mutations that are associated with hereditary tumors, and somatic mutations that cause sporadic tumors. Mouse models for cancers induced by p53 germline mutations have been established and characterized. However, hitherto there are no accurate animal models for sporadic tumors induced by p53 somatic missense mutations, although this mechanism of inactivating p53 occurs in a large fraction of human cancers.

We have generated a mouse allele, p53WM, that carries coding sequences for both wild type (WT) and R172H mutant p53 (corresponding to R175H in humans) at the p53 endogenous locus. The coding sequence for WT p53 is flanked by loxP sites and therefore can be deleted by Cre recombinase. In the absence of Cre, following radiation, the p53WM/+ mice have the similar ability as the p53 WT mice to activate p53, as demonstrated by transcriptional activation of p53 targets and induction of apoptosis. In addition, like WT mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs), the p53WM/+ MEFs also underwent cell cycle arrest following radiation. After crossing p53WM/+ mice with Zp3-Cre mice which express the Cre recombinase in oocytes, the coding sequence for WT p53 was removed, and the mutant p53R172H allele was regenerated as determined by sequencing, western blot analysis and real time reverse transcription PCR.

To investigate whether a somatic p53R172H mutation in mammary epithelium can induce breast tumors, adenoviruses expressing Cre (Ad-Cre) were injected into the mammary duct of p53WM/+ mice. Limiting the adenovirus dose allowed us to induce the p53R172H mutation in 1 of 20, 100 or 1000 cells, generating a mutant p53 surrounded by normal cells which more accurately mimics the clinical situation of sporadic tumors. Meanwhile, p53WM/+; K14-Cre and p53WM/+; WAP-Cre mice have been generated, in which p53R172H mutation are induced through Cre transgene specifically in the mammary epithelial cells. Lastly, to examine how somatic p53 mutation cooperates with an oncogene in mammary tumor induction, MMTV-neu; p53WM/+ mice were also subjected to the mammary intraductal Ad-Cre injection. We are currently monitoring mice and will further investigate the molecular mechanisms of tumorigenesis by studying the loss of heterozygosity, and the co-evolution of tumor epithelial cells and their microenvironment. This mouse model is more likely to share the underlying molecular pathology with human sporadic tumors. Therefore, it will be more predictive of human responses to drugs, and thus a more valuable tool in preclinical testing.

Citation Format: Zhang Y, Xiong S, Pant V, El-Naggar A, Lozano G. A mouse model of sporadic breast tumor with a conditional P53 mutation. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-03-03.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate opposes HBV-induced incomplete autophagy by enhancing lysosomal acidification, which is unfavorable for HBV replication

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a major polyphenol in green tea, exhibits diverse beneficial properties, including antiviral activity. Autophagy is a cellular process that is involved in the degradation of long-lived proteins and damaged organelles. Recent evidence indicates that modulation of autophagy is a potential therapeutic strategy for various viral diseases. In the present study, we investigated the effect of EGCG on hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication and the possible involvement of autophagy in this process. Our results showed that HBV induced autophagosome formation, which was required for replication of itself. However, although EGCG efficiently inhibited HBV replication, it enhanced, but not inhibited, autophagosome formation in hepatoma cells. Further study showed that HBV induced an incomplete autophagy, while EGCG, similar to starvation, was able to induce a complete autophagic process, which appeared to be unfavorable for HBV replication. Furthermore, it was found that HBV induced an incomplete autophagy by impairing lysosomal acidification, while it lost this ability in the presence of EGCG. Taken together, these data demonstrated that EGCG treatment opposed HBV-induced incomplete autophagy via enhancing lysosomal acidification, which was unfavorable for HBV replication.

Water's tensile strength measured using an optofluidic chip

In this paper, for the first time, the tensile strength of water is directly measured using an optofluidic chip based on the displacement of air-water interface deformation with homogeneous nucleation. When water in a microchannel is stretched dynamically via laser-induced shock reflection at the air-water interface, the shock pressures are determined by measuring the displacements of the deformed interface. Observation of the vapor bubbles is used as a probe to identify the cavitation threshold with a critical distance, and the tensile strength of water at 20 °C is measured to be -33.3 ± 2.8 MPa. This method can be extended to investigate the tensile strength of other soft materials such as glycerol, which is measured to be -59.8 ± 10.7 MPa at 20 °C.

MDM4/HIPK2/p53 cytoplasmic assembly uncovers coordinated repression of molecules with anti-apoptotic activity during early DNA damage response

The p53 inhibitor, MDM4 (MDMX) is a cytoplasmic protein with p53-activating function under DNA damage conditions. Particularly, MDM4 promotes phosphorylation of p53 at Ser46, a modification that precedes different p53 activities. We investigated the mechanism by which MDM4 promotes this p53 modification and its consequences in untransformed mammary epithelial cells and tissues. In response to severe DNA damage, MDM4 stimulates p53Ser46^P by binding and stabilizing serine–threonine kinase HIPK2. Under these conditions, the p53-inhibitory complex, MDM4/MDM2, dissociates and this allows MDM4 to promote p53/HIPK2 functional interaction. Comparative proteomic analysis of DNA damage-treated cells versus -untreated cells evidenced a diffuse downregulation of proteins with anti-apoptotic activity, some of which were targets of p53Ser46^P/HIPK2 repressive activity. Importantly, MDM4 depletion abolishes the downregulation of these proteins indicating the requirement of MDM4 to promote p53-mediated transcriptional repression. Consistently, MDM4-mediated HIPK2/p53 activation precedes HIPK2/p53 nuclear translocation and activity. Noteworthy, repression of these proteins was evident also in mammary glands of mice subjected to γ-irradiation and was significantly enhanced in transgenic mice overexpressing MDM4. This study evidences the flexibility of MDM2/MDM4 heterodimer, which allows the development of a positive activity of cytoplasmic MDM4 towards p53-mediated transcriptional function. Noteworthy, this activity uncovers coordinated repression of molecules with shared anti-apoptotic function which precedes active cell apoptosis and that are frequently overexpressed and/or markers of tumour phenotype in human cancer.

Droplet generation via a single bubble transformation in a nanofluidic channel

Here we report the first demonstration on droplet generation from the transformation of a single bubble in a nanofluidic channel by a laser-induced jet. A viscous two-dimensional Rayleigh-Plesset-type model is derived to describe the bubble dynamics in the nanofluidic channel, which accounts for the effect of shear stresses from the channel wall. The droplet generation (number and volume) is investigated experimentally by controlling the jet velocity via laser energy and distance. This study expands the understanding of jetting in the nanofluidic channel and demonstrates a novel method for femtoliter-volume single or multiple droplet formation. It is envisioned that this work will open new doors in on-demand generation of nanodroplets.

Altered intrinsic regional activity and corresponding brain pathways reflect the symptom severity of functional dyspepsia

BACKGROUND

Increasing evidence shows central abnormalities in functional dyspepsia (FD) patients, but whether the symptom severity is directly reflected in altered brain patterns remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to explore how FD affected the resting functional brain patterns for different degrees of symptom severity.

METHODS

Functional magnetic resonance imaging was carried out in 40 FD patients and 20 healthy controls. The resting-state brain changes in regional homogeneity (ReHo) and seed correlation analysis were investigated in patients relative to controls. To what degree the brain changes reflected the severity of the disease was assessed by a pattern classification technique.

KEY RESULTS

Altered ReHo values (p < 0.05, FDR corrected) were discovered in multiple brain areas in FD patients, and only the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and thalamus exhibited significant correlation with the severity of dyspepsia symptoms. Compared with controls, the neural signal changes of the thalamus were not found in the less severe FD patient group but in the relatively more severe group, while the ACC showed aberrations in both groups. Seed-based correlation analysis revealed ACC- and thalamus-related functional connectivity differences between FD patients and controls at a voxel-wise level, and the altered thalamic circuits provided the best performance in distinguishing FD patients with different levels of symptom severity.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Our results indicated that the functional abnormalities of the ACC and thalamus may occur at different clinical courses in FD. This may help us better understand the progression of FD.

PA28gamma emerges as a novel functional target of tumour suppressor microRNA-7 in non-small-cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

MicroRNA-7 (miR-7) has been reported to be a tumour suppressor gene. However, whether it has a role in the growth of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and what is its target involved in the tumour growth is still under investigation.

METHODS

NSCLC tissue sample, NSCLC cell lines and tissue microarray were investigated in this study. Total RNA, miRNA and protein were used for RT-PCR and western blot analysis. Immunohistochemistry was performed in tissues microarray. Cell culture and intervention experiments were performed in vitro and in vivo. Bioinformatics prediction, western blot and luciferase assay were identified the target of miR-7.

RESULTS

In this study, we found that the expression of miR-7 was significantly downregulated not only in NSCLC cell lines, but also in human NSCLC tissues compared with the matched adjacent tissues. Restoration of its expression through miR-7 mimics in A549 and H1299 NSCLC cells inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation, and cell-cycle progression in vitro. More importantly, the tumorigenicity in nude mice was reduced after administration of miR-7 in vivo. In advance, through bioinformatic analysis, luciferase assay and western blot, we identified a novel target of miR-7, PA28gamma (a proteasome activator) to be enrolled in the regulation with tumour. PA28gamma mRNA and protein levels are markedly upregulated in NSCLC cell lines and tumour samples, exhibiting a strong inverse relation with that of miR-7. In addition, knockdown of PA28gamma induced similar effects as overexpression of miR-7 in NSCLC cells. Furthermore, miR-7 overexpression or silencing of PA28gamma reduced the cyclinD1 expression at mRNA and protein level in NSCLC cell lines.

CONCLUSION

All these findings strongly imply that the overexpression of PA28gamma resulted from miR-7 downexpression in NSCLC has an important role in promoting cancer cell progress and consequently results in NSCLC growth. Thus, strategies targeting PA28gamma and/or miR-7 may become promising molecular therapies in NSCLC treatment.

Monitoring wound healing of elastic cartilage using multiphoton microscopy

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate the ability of multiphoton microscopy (MPM) for monitoring wound healing of elastic cartilage.

METHOD

In a rabbit ear model, four cartilage specimen groups at 1-day, 1-, 4-, 20-week healing time points as well as a normal elastic cartilage were examined with MPM without using labeling agents. MPM images at wound margins were obtained from specimens at different healing stages, compared with the Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) stained images. Image analysis was performed to characterize the collagen morphology for quantifying the wound healing progression of elastic cartilage.

RESULTS

MPM provided high-resolution images of elastic cartilage at varying depths. Comparisons of the images of specimens at different healing stages show obvious cell growth and matrix deposition. The results are consistent with the histological results. Moreover, quantitative analysis results show significant alteration in the collagen cavity size or collagen orientation index during wound healing of elastic cartilage, indicating the possibility to act as indicators for monitoring wound healing.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggested that MPM has the ability to monitor the wound healing progression of elastic cartilage, based on the visualization of cell growth and proliferation and quantitative characterization of collagen morphology during wound healing.