[Characteristic and clinical significance of microRNA expression between 144 Uygur and Han women with endometrial carcinoma]

OBJECTIVE

To compare the expression patterns of microRNA (miRNA) between 144 Uygur and Han women with endometrial carcinoma and to investigate their clinical significance.

METHODS

Taqman miRNA low-density array was used to compare miRNA profiles between Uygur and Han women with non-endometrioid endometrial carcinoma (NEEC). Five miRNAs were further analyzed in the 144 endometrial cancers including 62 Uygur and 82 Han samples via real-time PCR to determine their expression patterns.

RESULTS

MiRNA expression profiles revealed that many miRNAs overexpressed or downregula-ted in one ethnic group, but did not express or changed slightly in the other ethnic group. Further detection in the 144 endometrial cancers showed that miR-141, miR-200a, and miR-205 overexpressed in both ethnic groups. In Uygur endometrioid endometrial carcinoma (EEC), tumors with miR-141/200a overexpression tended to be more aggressive in behavior, whereas in the Han group, EEC with miR-200a overexpression was relative mild. However, the NEEC with miR-200a overexpression also had aggressive clinicopathologic features in the Han women. MiR-145 and miR-143 expressed differentially between Uygur and Han groups, they overexpressed in the former and decreased in the latter (P<0.05). In the Uygur women miR-145/143 increased significantly in NEEC and there was a trend that NEEC exhibiting favorable clinicopathologic factors had higher miR-145 expression, and was statistically significant in tumors with myometrial invasion less than 1/2 thickness (P=0.042). By contrary, miR-145/143 decreased in Han group and EEC with worse clinicopathologic variables had lower expression although without statistical significance. NEEC in Han group had no such tendency.

CONCLUSION

Uygur and Han women might have different miRNA expression profiles. MiR-141/200a/205 overexpressed in endometrial carcinomas and miR-141/200a might behave differently between these two ethnic groups as well as in EEC and in NEEC. Although miR-145/143 showed inverse expression patterns between Uygur and Han women with endometrial cancer, they all exerted tumor suppression effect on endometrial cancer.

Clusters of 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases in Chinese tour groups

International travel may facilitate the spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID‐19). The study describes clusters of COVID‐19 cases within Chinese tour groups travelling in Europe January 16–28. We compared characteristics of cases and non‐cases to determine transmission dynamics. The index case travelled from Wuhan, China, to Europe on 16 January 2020, and to Shanghai, China, on 27 January 2020, within a tour group (group A). Tour groups with the same outbound flight (group B) or the same tourism venue (group D) and all Chinese passengers on the inbound flight (group C) were investigated. The outbreak involved 11 confirmed cases, 10 suspected cases and six tourists who remained healthy. Group A, involving seven confirmed cases and six suspected cases, consisted of familial transmission followed by propagative transmission. There was less pathogenicity with propagative transmission than with familial transmission. Disease was transmitted in shared outbound flights, shopping venues within Europe and inbound flight back to China. The novel coronavirus caused clustered cases of COVID‐19 in tour groups. When tourism and travel opens up, governments will need to improve screening at airports and consider increased surveillance of tour groups—particularly those with older tour members.

Multi-body 3D-2D registration for image-guided reduction of pelvic dislocation in orthopaedic trauma surgery

Surgical reduction of pelvic dislocation is a challenging procedure with poor long-term prognosis if reduction does not accurately restore natural morphology. The procedure often requires long fluoroscopic exposure times and trial-and-error to achieve accurate reduction. We report a method to automatically compute the target pose of dislocated bones in preoperative CT and provide 3D guidance of reduction using routine 2D fluoroscopy. A pelvic statistical shape model (SSM) and a statistical pose model (SPM) were formed from an atlas of 40 pelvic CT images. Multi-body bone segmentation was achieved by mapping the SSM to a preoperative CT via an active shape model. The target reduction pose for the dislocated bone is estimated by fitting the poses of undislocated bones to the SPM. Intraoperatively, multiple bones are registered to fluoroscopy images via 3D-2D registration to obtain 3D pose estimates from 2D images. The method was examined in three studies: (1) a simulation study of 40 CT images simulating a range of dislocation patterns; (2) a pelvic phantom study with controlled dislocation of the left innominate bone; (3) a clinical case study investigating feasibility in images acquired during pelvic reduction surgery. Experiments investigated the accuracy of registration as a function of initialization error (capture range), image quality (radiation dose and image noise), and field of view (FOV) size. The simulation study achieved target pose estimation with translational error of median 2.3 mm (1.4 mm interquartile range, IQR) and rotational error of 2.1° (1.3° IQR). 3D-2D registration yielded 0.3 mm (0.2 mm IQR) in-plane and 0.3 mm (0.2 mm IQR) out-of-plane translational error, with in-plane capture range of ±50 mm and out-of-plane capture range of ±120 mm. The phantom study demonstrated 3D-2D target registration error of 2.5 mm (1.5 mm IQR), and the method was robust over a large dose range, down to 5 [Formula: see text]Gy/frame (an order of magnitude lower than the nominal fluoroscopic dose). The clinical feasibility study demonstrated accurate registration with both preoperative and intraoperative radiographs, yielding 3.1 mm (1.0 mm IQR) projection distance error with robust performance for FOV ranging from 340 × 340 mm2 to 170 × 170 mm2 (at the image plane). The method demonstrated accurate estimation of the target reduction pose in simulation, phantom, and a clinical feasibility study for a broad range of dislocation patterns, initialization error, dose levels, and FOV size. The system provides a novel means of guidance and assessment of pelvic reduction from routinely acquired preoperative CT and intraoperative fluoroscopy. The method has the potential to reduce radiation dose by minimizing trial-and-error and to improve outcomes by guiding more accurate reduction of joint dislocations.

Pre-symptomatic transmission of novel coronavirus in community settings

We used contact tracing to document how COVID-19 was transmitted across 5 generations involving 10 cases, starting with an individual who became ill on January 27. We calculated the incubation period of the cases as the interval between infection and development of symptoms. The median incubation period was 6.0 days (interquartile range, 3.5-9.5 days). The last two generations were infected in public places, 3 and 4 days prior to the onset of illness in their infectors. Both had certain underlying conditions and comorbidity. Further identification of how individuals transmit prior to being symptomatic will have important consequences.

Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of 333 confirmed cases with coronavirus disease 2019 in Shanghai, China

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an emerging infectious disease first identified in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. As of 19 February 2020, there had been 333 confirmed cases reported in Shanghai, China. This study elaborates on the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of COVID-19 based on a descriptive study of the 333 patients infected with COVID-19 in Shanghai for the purpose of probing into this new disease and providing reference. Among the 333 confirmed cases in Shanghai, 172 (51.7%) were males and 161 (48.3%) were females, with a median age of 50 years. 299 (89.8%) cases presented mild symptoms. 139 (41.7%) and 111 (33.3%) cases were infected in Wuhan and Shanghai, respectively. 148 (44.4%) cases once had contact with confirmed cases before onset, while 103 (30.9%) cases had never contacted confirmed cases but they had a sojourn history in Wuhan. The onset date of the first case in Shanghai was 28 December, with the peak appearing on 27 January. The median incubation period of COVID-19 was estimated to be 7.2 days. 207 (62.2%) cases had fever symptoms at the onset, whereas 273 (82.0%) cases experienced fever before hospitalization. 56 (18.6%) adults experienced a decrease in white blood cell and 84 (42.9%) had increased C-reactive protein after onset. Elderly, male and heart disease history were risk factors for severe or critical pneumonia. These findings suggest that most cases experienced fever symptoms and had mild pneumonia. Strengthening the health management of elderly men, especially those with underlying diseases, may help reduce the incidence of severe and critical pneumonia. Time intervals from onset to visit, hospitalization and diagnosis confirmed were all shortened after Shanghai's first-level public health emergency response. Shanghai's experience proves that COVID-19 can be controlled well in megacities.

[The prognostic value of cloned genetic mutations detected by second-generation sequencing in RUNX1-RUNX1T1 positive acute myeloid leukemia patients receiving intensive consolidation therapy]

Objective: To investigate the prognostic value of clonal gene mutations detected by second-generation sequencing in patients with positive RUNX1-RUNX1T1 acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who received high-dose chemotherapy or autologous transplantation (intensive consolidation therapy) in the first complete remission (CR(1)) state. Methods: 79 AML patients with positive RUNX1-RUNX1T1 who received intensive consolidation therapy in CR(1) state from July 2011 to August 2017 were analyzed retrospectively. Kaplan-Meier curve and Cox regression model were used to figure out the effect of leukocyte counts at onset and gene mutations for prognosis. Results: C-KIT, FLT3, CEBPA and DNMT3A gene mutations were found in 25 (31.6%) , 6 (7.6%) , 7 (8.9%) and 1 (1.3%) patient among the population. Mutations in C-KIT exon17 and C-KIT exon8 were detected in 19 (24.1%) and 5 (6.3%) cases, respectively, and mutations of FLT3-ITD were confirmed in 5 (6.3%) cases. The higher leukocyte counts presented at onset of leukemia, the shorter overall survival (OS) was seen in these patients (P=0.03) . Patients with C-KIT exon17 mutation had significantly shorter OS (P=0.01) and disease free survival (DFS) (P=0.006) compared with those without gene mutations, and patients with FLT3-ITD gene mutation got the inferior OS (P=0.048) and DFS (P=0.071) . Conclusion: In AML patients with positive RUNX1-RUNX1T1 receiving intensive consolidation therapy, the white blood cell counts at onset of leukemia, C-KIT mutations in exon 17, and FLT3-ITD gene mutations suggest poor prognosis, which would contribute to elaborate risk stratification, personalized treatment and predict prognosis for these patients.

Whole Transcriptome Analysis of Mesenchyme Tissue in Sika Deer Antler Revealed the CeRNAs Regulatory Network Associated With Antler Development

Deer antler is the only completely regenerable organ in mammals. During the rapid growth period, the antler proliferates even faster than cancerous tissue growth. However, the proliferation and development of antler have been in a stable and controllable growth cycle. In this study, we analyzed the time series expression data of nine samples from mesenchyme layer in three male sika deer in the early period of the antler with a saddle-like appearance (30 days), the rapid growth period of the antler with two branches (60 days), and the final period of the antler with three branches (90 days). Whole Transcriptome sequencing results show that in the 30 d versus 60 d group, 1,464 genes, 85 long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and 61 miRNAs were identified as differentially expressed; 1,748 genes, 138 lncRNAs, and 78 miRNAs were identified as differentially expressed in 30d versus 90d group; and 816 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), 49 differentially expressed lncRNAs (DE lncRNAs), and 24 differentially expressed miRNA (DE miRNAs) were identified in 60d versus 90d group. A total of 182 miRNA-mRNA interaction pairs and 89 miRNA-lncRNA interaction pairs were screened from DEGs, DE miRNAs, and DE lncRNAs to construct the ceRNA regulatory network (ceRNET). In summary, we identified candidate mRNAs, miRNAs and lncRNAs that regulate the development of antler tip. It may lay the foundation for further investigating the molecular mechanism of antler rapid growth and development.

Association of growth traits with a structural variation downstream of the KCNJ11 gene: a large population-based study in chickens

1. The potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily J member 11 gene (KCNJ11) is involved in the insulin secretion pathway. Studies have shown that mutation in this gene is associated with muscle weakness. The objective of the present study was to establish the association between KCNJ11 gene polymorphism and chicken growth performance and to analyse its expression pattern. 2. A novel 163-bp insertion/deletion (indel) polymorphism was identified in the region downstream of the KCNJ11 gene in 2330 individuals from ten populations by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). An F₂ resource population was used to investigate the genetic effects of the chicken KCNJ11 gene. Association analysis showed that the indel was significantly associated with chicken growth traits and that the phenotypic value of the ins-ins (II) genotype is higher than that of the ins-del (ID) and del-del (DD) genotypes. 3. Gene expression for different genotypes showed that birds carrying the II allele had a higher expression level than the DD genotypes. Analysis of tissue and spatiotemporal expression patterns indicated that the KCNJ11 gene was highly expressed in muscle tissues, with the highest levels in muscle tissue at one week of age, and that a 10% crude protein diet reduced the expression of this gene, average daily gain and muscle fibre diameter. 4. The results suggested that this novel 163-bp indel has the potential to become a new target for marker-assisted selection.

Image-Guided Robotic K-Wire Placement for Orthopaedic Trauma Surgery

PURPOSE

We report the initial development of an image-based solution for robotic assistance of pelvic fracture fixation. The approach uses intraoperative radiographs, preoperative CT, and an end effector of known design to align the robot with target trajectories in CT. The method extends previous work to solve the robot-to-patient registration from a single radiographic view (without C-arm rotation) and addresses the workflow challenges associated with integrating robotic assistance in orthopaedic trauma surgery in a form that could be broadly applicable to isocentric or non-isocentric C-arms.

METHODS

The proposed method uses 3D-2D known-component registration to localize a robot end effector with respect to the patient by: (1) exploiting the extended size and complex features of pelvic anatomy to register the patient; and (2) capturing multiple end effector poses using precise robotic manipulation. These transformations, along with an offline hand-eye calibration of the end effector, are used to calculate target robot poses that align the end effector with planned trajectories in the patient CT. Geometric accuracy of the registrations was independently evaluated for the patient and the robot in phantom studies.

RESULTS

The resulting translational difference between the ground truth and patient registrations of a pelvis phantom using a single (AP) view was 1.3 mm, compared to 0.4 mm using dual (AP+Lat) views. Registration of the robot in air (i.e., no background anatomy) with five unique end effector poses achieved mean translational difference ~1.4 mm for K-wire placement in the pelvis, comparable to tracker-based margins of error (commonly ~2 mm).

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed approach is feasible based on the accuracy of the patient and robot registrations and is a preliminary step in developing an image-guided robotic guidance system that more naturally fits the workflow of fluoroscopically guided orthopaedic trauma surgery. Future work will involve end-to-end development of the proposed guidance system and assessment of the system with delivery of K-wires in cadaver studies.

Effects of fat type and emulsifier in feed on growth performance, slaughter traits, and lipid metabolism of Cherry Valley ducks

A 2-factor test design was used to investigate the effect of an emulsifier (Aldo®, Lonza, America) (200 g/t) in the diet of Cherry Valley meat ducks to replace some of 2 different oils (animal fat and vegetable oil) on meat production performance, slaughter traits, and fat metabolism. The 900 healthy 18-day-old ducks were grouped into 6 treatments, each with 5 replicates and 30 meat ducks per replicate. The 2 fat sources were established as a positive control group, a negative control group (positive control group-some oil (equivalent to metabolic energy of 50 kcal/ton)), and an emulsifier group (negative control group + 200 g/ton Aldo). The results showed that addition of different fat sources in feed had no significant effect on growth performance, carcass properties, and fat metabolism of 18- to 42-day-old meat ducks (P > 0.05). Reducing the amount of oil used in the feed lowered the growth performance, carcass properties, and affected fat metabolism of meat ducks. However, in feeds with 2 fat sources, some oils were replaced by adding Aldo without affecting growth performance and carcass properties of meat ducks, and improved their fat metabolism, reduced triglycerides (TG) in serum, and increased activity of lipoprotein and hepatic lipases in liver and of pancreatic lipase. Thus, addition of Aldo to a low fat diet could improve growth performance, carcass quality, and lipid metabolism, and promote digestion and absorption of fat for meat ducks.

[The efficacy and safety of salvage surgery for local recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma: a systematic review and Meta-analysis]

Objective: To assess the current evidence regarding the efficacy, safety, and potential advantages of endoscopic compared with open salvage surgery for patients with local recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Methods: A systematic search of Pubmed/Medline, Embase, and Cochrane databases ranged between 2000 and 2017 was conducted. Included studies reported specific residual or local recurrent nasopharyngeal cancer survival data. Proportional Meta-analysis was performed on both outcomes with a random-effects model and the 95% confidential intervals were calculated by Stata 12.0 software. Results: A total of 24 case series studies were included in the Meta-analysis.The pooled 2-year overall survival rates of endoscopic and open group were 84% (95%CI:72%-93%), 68%(95%CI:59%-77%),respectively.The pooled 2-year disease-free survival rates of endoscopic and open group were 68%(95%CI:53%-81%), 65%(95%CI:54%-75%),respectively. The pooled 5-year overall survival rates of endoscopic and open group were 72%(95%CI:37%-97%), 48% (95%CI:40%-56%),respectively.The pooled 5-year disease-free survival rates of endoscopic and open group were 65%(95%CI:29%-93%), 50%(95%CI:43%-57%),respectively.The combined outcome of endoscopic was higher than open procedure. In addition, less severe complications, lower local recurrence rates(27%vs32%).The 2-year overall survival rates of endoscopic was higher than open procedure in the staging of rT1, rT2, and rT3 (93%vs87%; 77%vs63%; 67%vs53%) , but was equal to open in the staging for rT4 (35%vs35%) .Meta-regression showed that the heterogeneity was correlated with advanced tumor ratio. Conclusions: The present Meta-analysis reveals that endoscopic approach offers a safe and efficient alternative to open approach with better short-term outcome and fewer postoperative complications in selecting patients strictly.

A novel 86-bp indel of the motilin receptor gene is significantly associated with growth and carcass traits in Gushi-Anka F2 reciprocal cross chickens

1. A previous whole-genome association analysis has identified the motilin receptor gene (MLNR), which regulates gastrointestinal motility and gastric emptying, as a candidate gene related to chicken growth.2. MLNR mRNA was expressed in all tissues tested, and the expression level in digestive tissues was greater than in other tissues. Expression levels in the pancreas, duodenum and glandular stomach at day old and one, two and three weeks of age indicated a possible correlation with the digestive system. This suggested that the MLNR gene plays a central role in gastrointestinal tract function and affects the growth and development of chickens. Moreover, there was a significant difference in expression in the glandular stomach tissue between Ross 308 and Gushi chickens at six weeks of age.3. Re-sequencing revealed an 86-bp insertion/deletion polymorphism in the downstream region of the MLNR gene. The mutation locus was genotyped in 2,261 individuals from nine different chicken breeds. MLNR expression levels in the glandular stomach of chickens with DD genotypes were greater than those in chickens with the ID and II genotypes. The DD genotype was the most dominant genotype in commercial broiler's (Ross 308 and Arbor Acres broilers), and the D allele frequency in these breeds exceeded 91%. The deletion mutation tended towards fixation in commercial broilers.4. Association with growth and carcass traits analysed in a Gushi-Anka F₂ intercrossed population, showed that the DD genotype was significantly associated with the greatest growth and carcass trait values, whereas values associated with the II genotype were the lowest in the F₂ reciprocal cross chickens.5. The results suggest that the mutation is strongly associated with growth related traits and it is likely to be useful for marker-assisted selection of chickens.

A7 Co-receptor tropism determined by genotypic assay in HIV-1 non-B subtypes circulating in Cuba: Implications for pathogenesis and Maraviroc resistance

The V3 loop of the HIV-1 envelope (env) gene is involved in binding to the chemokine receptors CCR5 and CXCR4, thus determining viral tropism. With the aim of genetically characterizing the C2V3 env region of HIV-1 samples from Cuban patients, naive to Maraviroc (MVC) therapy, 115 plasma samples were taken in the period of 2014–6 and analyzed by sequencing of the C2V3 region. HIV-1 subtyping was performed using COMET V.2 and Rega subtyping toolV.3 software. Subtypes were confirmed by phylogenetic analyses using Mega-6. Prediction of co-receptor tropism was performed using the geno2pheno algorithm. The viral mutations associated to MVC resistance were analyzed, as well as the association of the subtype with clinical, epidemiological, virological, and immunological variables. The subtypes detected using the C2V3 region were CRF20, 23, 24_BG (35 patients, 30.4%); Subtype B (33 patients, 28.7%); CRF19_cpx (30 patients, 26.1%); CRF18_cpx (10 patients, 8.7%); and others (7 patients, 6.1%). Overall, 60 per cent of the viruses exhibited R5 phenotype, 14.8 per cent were R5X4 and 25.2 per cent were X4. Interestingly, CRF19_cpx virus was associated with having phenotype X4 [46.7%, P = 0.0047, odds ratio (OR): 3.96, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.59–9.84], with infection in young individuals (39.1%, P = 0.025, OR: 3,548; 95% CI: 1,136–11,077) and with higher values of viral load (P ≤ 0.05). The comparison of the amino acid sequences of the V3 loop showed differences between the B and non-B subtypes (P = 0.0001). Mutations reported to be associated with MVC resistance, were detected in 75.7 per cent of the samples, in positions 11 (6.1%), 13 (49.6%), 25 (6.1%), 316 (7.0%), 323 (11.3%), and 319 (3.5%) of Gp120, particularly in the recombinant forms CRF19_cpx and CRF_BGs. HIV variants that use the CXCR4 co-receptor were associated with more than 10 years of diagnosis, with older individuals, in the AIDS stage, with low CD4 counts and higher viral load levels (P < 0.05). The results support the hypothesis previously stated that CRF19_cpx viruses could be more pathogenic and would have limitations for the use of MVC. The high rate of mutations associated to MVC among non-B Cuban subtypes should be further studied.

Automatic pedicle screw planning using atlas-based registration of anatomy and reference trajectories

An algorithm for automatic spinal pedicle screw planning is reported and evaluated in simulation and first clinical studies. A statistical atlas of the lumbar spine (N  =  40 members) was constructed for active shape model (ASM) registration of target vertebrae to an unsegmented patient CT. The atlas was augmented to include 'reference' trajectories through the pedicles as defined by a spinal neurosurgeon. Following ASM registration, the trajectories are transformed to the patient CT and accumulated to define a patient-specific screw trajectory, diameter, and length. The algorithm was evaluated in leave-one-out analysis (N  =  40 members) and for the first time in a clinical study (N  =  5 patients undergoing cone-beam CT (CBCT) guided spine surgery), and in simulated low-dose CBCT images. ASM registration achieved (2.0  ±  0.5) mm root-mean-square-error (RMSE) in surface registration in 96% of cases, with outliers owing to limitations in CT image quality (high noise/slice thickness). Trajectory centerlines were conformant to the pedicle in 95% of cases. For all non-breaching trajectories, automatically defined screw diameter and length were similarly conformant to the pedicle and vertebral body (98.7%, Grade A/B). The algorithm performed similarly in CBCT clinical studies (93% centerline and screw conformance) and was consistent at the lowest dose levels tested. Average runtime in planning five-level (lumbar) bilateral screws (ten trajectories) was (312.1  ±  104.0) s. The runtime per level for ASM registration was (41.2  ±  39.9) s, and the runtime per trajectory was (4.1  ±  0.8) s, suggesting a runtime of ~(45.3  ±  39.9) s with a more fully parallelized implementation. The algorithm demonstrated accurate, automatic definition of pedicle screw trajectories, diameter, and length in CT images of the spine without segmentation. The studies support translation to clinical studies in free-hand or robot-assisted spine surgery, quality assurance, and data analytics in which fast trajectory definition is a benefit to workflow.

[Repair effect of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells on lung injury in rats exposed to silica]

Objective: To observe the repairing effect of adipose mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) on lung injury induced by silica in rats. Methods: Primary ADSCs-GFP was obtained from rats. ADSCs-GFP was injected into tail vein of silicosis model rats. The expression of green fluorescence in lungs was observed regularly to determine the homing ability of ADSCs. Primary ADSCs of rats were obtained and randomly divided into control group, exposure group, vehicle group and ADSCs group. Silicosis rat model was established by non-exposed tracheal drip method. 24 hours after silica exposure, rats in ADSCs group were injected with ADSCs of 1×10(6)/kg body weight through tail vein, and the pathological changes of lung tissue were observed and evaluated 28 days after intervention. To explore the early intervention mechanism of ADSCs on pulmonary fibrosis in silicosis model rats, apoptosis-related proteins were detected by immunohistochemistry. Results: 28 days after exposure to silica, rats in the exposure group showed obvious pulmonary fibrosis. Compared with exposure group and vehicle group, ADSCs group showed less pulmonary inflammation, less silica nodules and less collagen deposition area. Immunohistochemical results showed that the expression of Caspase-3 and cytochrome C protein decreased and Bcl-2 protein increased after ADSCs transplantation. Conclusion: ADSCs infusion has an obvious intervention effect on postponing early silicosis fibrosis in rats exposed to silica, and its mechanism is related to the regulation of apoptotic process.

Beam Energy and Centrality Dependence of Direct-Photon Emission from Ultrarelativistic Heavy-Ion Collisions

The PHENIX collaboration presents first measurements of low-momentum (0.4<p_{T}<3  GeV/c) direct-photon yields from Au+Au collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=39 and 62.4 GeV. For both beam energies the direct-photon yields are substantially enhanced with respect to expectations from prompt processes, similar to the yields observed in Au+Au collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=200. Analyzing the photon yield as a function of the experimental observable dN_{ch}/dη reveals that the low-momentum (>1  GeV/c) direct-photon yield dN_{γ}^{dir}/dη is a smooth function of dN_{ch}/dη and can be well described as proportional to (dN_{ch}/dη)^{α} with α≈1.25. This scaling behavior holds for a wide range of beam energies at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider and the Large Hadron Collider, for centrality selected samples, as well as for different A+A collision systems. At a given beam energy, the scaling also holds for high p_{T} (>5  GeV/c), but when results from different collision energies are compared, an additional sqrt[s_{NN}]-dependent multiplicative factor is needed to describe the integrated-direct-photon yield.

[Study on occupational exposure limits of tributyl phosphate in the workplace air]

Objective: To put forward the suggestion of the occupational contact limit of tributyl phosphate in the air of the workplace. Methods: Data of production and usage, workers' basic information, occupational history, and physical examinations were collected, and the environmental and individual levels of exposure were monitored using fixed-point and individual sampling. The results of the questionnaire and health examination were statistically analyzed using exact probability method of Fisher in the workers exposed to tributyl phosphate and the control group. Results: The results showed that tributyl phosphate was widely distributed in the workplace of production and using enterprises, and the concentration of tributyl phosphate in packaging area was highest at 2.47 mg/m(3), and in feeder nose was highest at 2.13 mg/m(3). The discomfort symptoms were classified and results showed that tributyl phosphate exposure group of 136 people, all symptoms of 128 people, accounting for 94.44% of the total, the remaining 5.56% of the staff report had psychiatric symptoms or lethargy and irritability skin itching, the control group had no symptoms. There is or not discomfort symptoms in the tributyl phosphate exposure group and the control group was compared with the exact probability of Fisher, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05) . The results of healthy physical examination of workers exposed to tributyl phosphate and control group were statistically analyzed by the exact probability method of Fisher. The results showed that there was no significant difference in the results of routine internal medical examination, nervous system examination, skin examination, five senses examination, blood routine, urine routine, lung ventilation, and X ray chest fluoroscopy between the tributyl phosphate exposure group and the control group (P<0.05) . Conclusion: The workplace permissible time-weighted tributyl phosphate and short-term exposure limit concentrations in China were set at 2.5 mg/m(3) and 5 mg/m(3), respectively.

[Particulate matter pollution and allergic rhinitis]

Summary Outdoor air pollution has become a major environmental health problem throughout the world. In particular, exposure to particulate matter(PM) has been associated with the development and exacerbation of allergic rhinitis（AR）. Although the adverse health effects of PM have been demonstrated for many years, the underlying mechanisms have not been fully identified. In this review, we refer to recently published literature to describe the composition of PM, the epidemiological evidence of PM-induced AR, and the possible immune mechanisms of PM-induced AR.

Bacterial population dynamics after foliar fertilization of almond leaves

AIMS

To describe the effects of foliar fertilizer application on the bacterial populations of almond tree leaves.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We applied a commercially available foliar fertilizer or a water control onto the leaves of almond trees and collected leaves after 1, 7, 14 and 56 days and examined their bacterial populations by 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. After 1 day, we observed significant differences in 3 of the 4 predominant bacterial phyla, and 5 of the 13 predominant bacterial families. After 7 days, we observed significant differences in all of the predominant phyla, and 8 of the 13 predominant families. After 14 days, the number of significant differences decreased, and after 56 days only 2 of the 13 predominant families differed significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

Foliar fertilization significantly altered the bacterial population structure of almond leaves as compared to the water control. While most of the observed perturbation was transient, significant differences remained after 56 days.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

This is the first report describing the effects of foliar fertilization on the bacterial populations of almond leaves and provides new insights as to how this process alters the leaf bacterial population structure.

Real-time, image-based slice-to-volume registration for ultrasound-guided spinal intervention

Real-time fusion of magnetic resonance (MR) and ultrasound (US) images could facilitate safe and accurate needle placement in spinal interventions. We develop an entirely image-based registration method (independent of or complementary to surgical trackers) that includes an efficient US probe pose initialization algorithm. The registration enables the simultaneous display of 2D ultrasound image slices relative to 3D pre-procedure MR images for navigation. A dictionary-based 3D-2D pose initialization algorithm was developed in which likely probe positions are predefined in a dictionary with feature encoding by Haar wavelet filters. Feature vectors representing the 2D US image are computed by scaling and translating multiple Haar basis filters to capture scale, location, and relative intensity patterns of distinct anatomical features. Following pose initialization, fast 3D-2D registration was performed by optimizing normalized cross-correlation between intra- and pre-procedure images using Powell's method. Experiments were performed using a lumbar puncture phantom and a fresh cadaver specimen presenting realistic image quality in spinal US imaging. Accuracy was quantified by comparing registration transforms to ground truth motion imparted by a computer-controlled motion system and calculating target registration error (TRE) in anatomical landmarks. Initialization using a 315-length feature vector yielded median translation accuracy of 2.7 mm (3.4 mm interquartile range, IQR) in the phantom and 2.1 mm (2.5 mm IQR) in the cadaver. By comparison, storing the entire image set in the dictionary and optimizing correlation yielded a comparable median accuracy of 2.1 mm (2.8 mm IQR) in the phantom and 2.9 mm (3.5 mm IQR) in the cadaver. However, the dictionary-based method reduced memory requirements by 47×  compared to storing the entire image set. The overall 3D error after registration measured using 3D landmarks was 3.2 mm (1.8 mm IQR) mm in the phantom and 3.0 mm (2.3 mm IQR) mm in the cadaver. The system was implemented in a 3D Slicer interface to facilitate translation to clinical studies. Haar feature based initialization provided accuracy and robustness at a level that was sufficient for real-time registration using an entirely image-based method for ultrasound navigation. Such an approach could improve the accuracy and safety of spinal interventions in broad utilization, since it is entirely software-based and can operate free from the cost and workflow requirements of surgical trackers.

A momentum-based diffeomorphic demons framework for deformable MR-CT image registration

Neuro-navigated procedures require a high degree of geometric accuracy but are subject to geometric error from complex deformation in the deep brain-e.g. regions about the ventricles due to egress of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) upon neuroendoscopic approach or placement of a ventricular shunt. We report a multi-modality, diffeomorphic, deformable registration method using momentum-based acceleration of the Demons algorithm to solve the transformation relating preoperative MRI and intraoperative CT as a basis for high-precision guidance. The registration method (pMI-Demons) extends the mono-modality, diffeomorphic form of the Demons algorithm to multi-modality registration using pointwise mutual information (pMI) as a similarity metric. The method incorporates a preprocessing step to nonlinearly stretch CT image values and incorporates a momentum-based approach to accelerate convergence. Registration performance was evaluated in phantom and patient images: first, the sensitivity of performance to algorithm parameter selection (including update and displacement field smoothing, histogram stretch, and the momentum term) was analyzed in a phantom study over a range of simulated deformations; and second, the algorithm was applied to registration of MR and CT images for four patients undergoing minimally invasive neurosurgery. Performance was compared to two previously reported methods (free-form deformation using mutual information (MI-FFD) and symmetric normalization using mutual information (MI-SyN)) in terms of target registration error (TRE), Jacobian determinant (J), and runtime. The phantom study identified optimal or nominal settings of algorithm parameters for translation to clinical studies. In the phantom study, the pMI-Demons method achieved comparable registration accuracy to the reference methods and strongly reduced outliers in TRE (p [Formula: see text] 0.001 in Kolmogorov-Smirnov test). Similarly, in the clinical study: median TRE  =  1.54 mm (0.83-1.66 mm interquartile range, IQR) for pMI-Demons compared to 1.40 mm (1.02-1.67 mm IQR) for MI-FFD and 1.64 mm (0.90-1.92 mm IQR) for MI-SyN. The pMI-Demons and MI-SyN methods yielded diffeomorphic transformations (J  >  0) that preserved topology, whereas MI-FFD yielded unrealistic (J  <  0) deformations subject to tissue folding and tearing. Momentum-based acceleration gave a ~35% speedup of the pMI-Demons method, providing registration runtime of 10.5 min (reduced to 2.2 min on GPU), compared to 15.5 min for MI-FFD and 34.7 min for MI-SyN. The pMI-Demons method achieved registration accuracy comparable to MI-FFD and MI-SyN, maintained diffeomorphic transformation similar to MI-SyN, and accelerated runtime in a manner that facilitates translation to image-guided neurosurgery.

Histone/protein deacetylase inhibitor therapy for enhancement of Foxp3+ T-regulatory cell function posttransplantation

T-regulatory (Treg) cells are like other cells present throughout the body in being subject to biochemical modifications in response to extracellular signals. An important component of these responses involves changes in posttranslational modifications (PTMs) of histones and many nonhistone proteins, including phosphorylation/dephosphorylation, ubiquitination/deubiquitination, and acetylation/deacetylation. Foxp3, the key transcription factor of Tregs, is constantly being rapidly turned over, and a number of these PTMs determine its level of expression and activity. Of interest in the transplant setting, modulation of the acetylation or deacetylation of key lysine residues in Foxp3 can promote the stability and function, leading to increased Treg production and increased Treg suppressive activity. This mini-review focuses on recent data concerning the roles that histone/protein deacetylases (HDACs) play in control of Treg function, and how small molecule HDAC inhibitors can be used to promote Treg-dependent allograft survival in experimental models. These data are discussed in the light of increasing interest in the identification and clinical evaluation of isoform-selective HDAC inhibitors, and their potential application as tools to modulate Foxp3+ Treg cell numbers and function in transplant recipients.

[Cause analysis of one case multiply misdiagnosed patient with hypopharyngeal carcinoma]

The clinical manifestations were pharyngalgia anddysphagia. Physical examination found that the size of a mobilizable and hard lymph node in the area of the right neck Ⅱ was about 2.0 cm×2.0 cm. Ultrasound examination demonstrated abnormal lymphadenopathy in bilateral neck which was considered metastatic cancer. Neck CT showed occupation of the hypopharynx, thickening bilateral aryepiglottic folds and false vocal cords, and enlargement lymph node in the bilateral neck Ⅱ area. Upper gastrointestinal radiography: The mucosa from the lower border of right pear-shaped fossa to the entrance of the esophagus was disrupted, and the partial lumen was narrowed. There were no abnormalities in the remaining segments. Pathologicalexamination of postoperative: hypopharyngealmoderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma,invasion of the muscularis propria, lymph node cancerometastasis in the left cervical Ⅱ, Ⅲ, and Ⅳ regions (1/19); lymph node cancerometastasis in the right cervical Ⅱ, Ⅲ, and Ⅳ regions (6/12).

LHX6 inhibits the proliferation, invasion and migration of breast cancer cells by modulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway

OBJECTIVE

LIM homeobox domain 6 (LHX6) is emerging as a critical regulator in carcinogenesis and tumor progression. The previous study has reported the expression and function of LHX6 in breast cancer (BC). However, its mechanism underlying BC metastasis remains largely unclear. This study aimed to investigate the related mechanisms of the tumor-suppressive role of LHX6 in BC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Quantitative Real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blotting were used to determine LHX6 mRNA levels and protein expressions in BC tissues and cell lines. LHX6 protein expression was also analyzed in BC tissues and matched normal breast tissues using immunohistochemistry (IHC). The biologic functions of LHX6 in BC were explored by CCK-8 assay, colony formation assay, and transwell assays in vitro. Finally, we investigated the effect of LHX6 up-regulation on PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway by Western blot.

RESULTS

Our results showed that LHX6 was lowly expressed at the mRNA and protein level in BC cancer tissues and cell lines. Ectopic expression of LHX6 in MDA-MB-231 and T-47D suppressed cell growth, migration, and invasion. Mechanistically, our further investigations revealed that the upregulation of LHX6 inhibited the activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

We firstly provided evidence that LHX6 exerted its anti-tumor function on BC via suppressing activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling, which eventually inhibited the progression of BC.

PR-957 mediates neuroprotection by inhibiting Th17 differentiation and modulating cytokine production in a mouse model of ischaemic stroke

Acute ischaemic stroke can induce secondary brain injury by activating an inflammatory response that contributes to clinical impairment. As a specific inhibitor of the immunoproteasome subunit low molecular weight polypeptide 7 (LMP7), PR-957 may participate in regulating pathophysiological and inflammatory responses in multiple diseases of the central nervous system (CNS). We investigated the neuroprotective properties of PR-957 in a mouse model of stroke, induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). After MCAO and injections of PR-957 or vehicle, we evaluated mice behaviourally using modified Neurological Severity Scores (mNSS) and sensorimotor tests, including the adhesive-removal test, a foot-fault test and an inclined plane test. Infarct volume was measured 24 and 72 h after MCAO. Infiltration by different lymphocyte subpopulations was evaluated by flow cytometry and immunofluorescent staining of brain tissue from the penumbral area. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were used to measure the expression of proinflammatory cytokines: interkeukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-17A, interferon (IFN)-γ, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF) and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). Expression of phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (pSTAT-3) protein levels in brain was measured by immunoblot. MCAO mice treated with PR-957 showed a significant decrease in infarct volume and had mild neurological deficits compared to vehicle-treated mice. PR-957 administration also significantly decreased IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12, IL-17A and TNF-α. PR-957 provides neuroprotection via inhibiting T lymphocyte infiltration and decreasing T helper type 17 (Th17) cell differentiation in MCAO mice, which may result from the reduced expression of pSTAT-3. The neuroprotective effect of PR-957 indicates its potential utility as anti-inflammatory therapy for ischaemic stroke.

Inhibition of RhoA reduces propofol-mediated growth cone collapse, axonal transport impairment, loss of synaptic connectivity, and behavioural deficits

BACKGROUND

Exposure of the developing brain to propofol results in cognitive deficits. Recent data suggest that inhibition of neuronal apoptosis does not prevent cognitive defects, suggesting mechanisms other than neuronal apoptosis play a role in anaesthetic neurotoxicity. Proper neuronal growth during development is dependent upon growth cone morphology and axonal transport. Propofol modulates actin dynamics in developing neurones, causes RhoA-dependent depolymerisation of actin, and reduces dendritic spines and synapses. We hypothesised that RhoA inhibition prevents synaptic loss and subsequent cognitive deficits. The present study tested whether RhoA inhibition with the botulinum toxin C3 (TAT-C3) prevents propofol-induced synapse and neurite loss, and preserves cognitive function.

METHODS

RhoA activation, growth cone morphology, and axonal transport were measured in neonatal rat neurones (5-7 days in vitro) exposed to propofol. Synapse counts (electron microscopy), dendritic arborisation (Golgi-Cox), and network connectivity were measured in mice (age 28 days) previously exposed to propofol at postnatal day 5-7. Memory was assessed in adult mice (age 3 months) previously exposed to propofol at postnatal day 5-7.

RESULTS

Propofol increased RhoA activation, collapsed growth cones, and impaired retrograde axonal transport of quantum dot-labelled brain-derived neurotrophic factor, all of which were prevented with TAT-C3. Adult mice previously treated with propofol had decreased numbers of total hippocampal synapses and presynaptic vesicles, reduced hippocampal dendritic arborisation, and infrapyramidal mossy fibres. These mice also exhibited decreased hippocampal-dependent contextual fear memory recall. All anatomical and behavioural changes were prevented with TAT-C3 pre-treatment.

CONCLUSION

Inhibition of RhoA prevents propofol-mediated hippocampal neurotoxicity and associated cognitive deficits.

A line fiducial method for geometric calibration of cone-beam CT systems with diverse scan trajectories

Modern cone-beam CT systems, especially C-arms, are capable of diverse source-detector orbits. However, geometric calibration of these systems using conventional configurations of spherical fiducials (BBs) may be challenged for novel source-detector orbits and system geometries. In part, this is because the BB configurations are designed with careful forethought regarding the intended orbit so that BB marker projections do not overlap in projection views. Examples include helical arrangements of BBs (Rougee et al 1993 Proc. SPIE 1897 161-9) such that markers do not overlap in projections acquired from a circular orbit and circular arrangements of BBs (Cho et al 2005 Med. Phys. 32 968-83). As a more general alternative, this work proposes a calibration method based on an array of line-shaped, radio-opaque wire segments. With this method, geometric parameter estimation is accomplished by relating the 3D line equations representing the wires to the 2D line equations of their projections. The use of line fiducials simplifies many challenges with fiducial recognition and extraction in an orbit-independent manner. For example, their projections can overlap only mildly, for any gantry pose, as long as the wires are mutually non-coplanar in 3D. The method was tested in application to circular and non-circular trajectories in simulation and in real orbits executed using a mobile C-arm prototype for cone-beam CT. Results indicated high calibration accuracy, as measured by forward and backprojection/triangulation error metrics. Triangulation errors on the order of microns and backprojected ray deviations uniformly less than 0.2 mm were observed in both real and simulated orbits. Mean forward projection errors less than 0.1 mm were observed in a comprehensive sweep of different C-arm gantry angulations. Finally, successful integration of the method into a CT imaging chain was demonstrated in head phantom scans.

Efficacy and safety of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors versus dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors as monotherapy or add-on to metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

To compare the efficacy and safety of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4is) and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2is) as monotherapy or add-on to metformin (Met) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed, Embase and ClinicalTrials.gov sites were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials to assess the efficacy and safety of DPP-4is and SGLT-2is in patients with T2DM. Risk ratio (RR) and weighted mean difference (WMD) were used to evaluate outcomes.

RESULTS

In the analysis of 25 randomized trials, which involved 14 619 patients, SGLT-2is were associated with a significantly stronger reduction in haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (WMD 0.13%, 95% credible interval [CI], 0.04%-0.22%, P = .005) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (WMD 0.80 mmol/L, 95% CI, 0.58-1.01 mmol/L, P < .00001) than were DPP-4is. However, no significant difference between the 2 drug categories was found in the risk of hypoglycaemic events (RR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.78-1.26, P = .92). SGLT-2is plus Met was associated with a more significant decrease in FPG (WMD 0.71 mmol/L, 95% CI, 0.43-1.00 mmol/L, P < .00001) than was DPP-4is plus Met. However, no differences were found in the reduction of HbA1c (WMD 0.11%, 95% CI, -0.03%-0.25%, P = .12) or the risk of hypoglycaemic events (RR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.80-1.31, P = .86).

CONCLUSIONS

This review revealed that, compared to DPP-4is, SGLT-2is significantly reduced HbA1c, FPG and body weight without increasing the risk of hypoglycaemia in diabetes treatment.

[Treatment of recurrent chylous leakage after neck dissection for one case with thyroid carcinoma]

The incidence of chylous leakage which is one of serious complications after neck dissection is low. The recurrent chylous leakage is even rare. One patient with recurrent chylous leakage after the operation of thyroid papillary carcinoma is reported to investigate the pathogenesis and effective treatment of recurrent chylous leakage after neck surgery.

Planning, guidance, and quality assurance of pelvic screw placement using deformable image registration

Percutaneous pelvic screw placement is challenging due to narrow bone corridors surrounded by vulnerable structures and difficult visual interpretation of complex anatomical shapes in 2D x-ray projection images. To address these challenges, a system for planning, guidance, and quality assurance (QA) is presented, providing functionality analogous to surgical navigation, but based on robust 3D-2D image registration techniques using fluoroscopy images already acquired in routine workflow. Two novel aspects of the system are investigated: automatic planning of pelvic screw trajectories and the ability to account for deformation of surgical devices (K-wire deflection). Atlas-based registration is used to calculate a patient-specific plan of screw trajectories in preoperative CT. 3D-2D registration aligns the patient to CT within the projective geometry of intraoperative fluoroscopy. Deformable known-component registration (dKC-Reg) localizes the surgical device, and the combination of plan and device location is used to provide guidance and QA. A leave-one-out analysis evaluated the accuracy of automatic planning, and a cadaver experiment compared the accuracy of dKC-Reg to rigid approaches (e.g. optical tracking). Surgical plans conformed within the bone cortex by 3-4 mm for the narrowest corridor (superior pubic ramus) and  >5 mm for the widest corridor (tear drop). The dKC-Reg algorithm localized the K-wire tip within 1.1 mm and 1.4° and was consistently more accurate than rigid-body tracking (errors up to 9 mm). The system was shown to automatically compute reliable screw trajectories and accurately localize deformed surgical devices (K-wires). Such capability could improve guidance and QA in orthopaedic surgery, where workflow is impeded by manual planning, conventional tool trackers add complexity and cost, rigid tool assumptions are often inaccurate, and qualitative interpretation of complex anatomy from 2D projections is prone to trial-and-error with extended fluoroscopy time.

Effects of Teriparatide on Joint Erosions in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

Articular erosions correlate with disability in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Biologic agents reduce erosion progression in RA, but erosion healing occurs infrequently. This study was undertaken to assess the effects of the anabolic agent teriparatide on joint erosion volume in RA patients treated with a tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi).

METHODS

We conducted a randomized controlled trial in 24 patients with erosive RA, osteopenia, and disease activity controlled by TNFi treatment for at least 3 months. Half were randomized to receive teriparatide for 1 year and the others constituted a wait-list control group. Subjects and primary rheumatologists were not blinded with regard to treatment assignment, but all outcomes were assessed in a blinded manner. The primary outcome measure was change in erosion volume determined by computed tomography at 6 anatomic sites. Significance within each hand and anatomic site was based on a 2-tailed test, with P values less than 0.05 considered significant.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics of the treatment groups were well balanced. After 52 weeks, the median change in erosion volume in the teriparatide group was -0.4 mm³ (interquartile range [IQR] -34.5, 29.6) and did not differ significantly from that in controls (median change +9.1 mm³ [IQR -29.6, 26.4]) (P = 0.28). No significant difference in change in erosion volume was noted at the radius, ulna, or metacarpophalangeal joints. Bone mineral density improved at the femoral neck and lumbar spine in the teriparatide group.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that teriparatide treatment for 1 year does not significantly reduce erosion volume in the hands or wrists of patients with established RA with disease activity controlled by TNFi treatment.

[Prevalence of hearing disorders in China: a population-based survey in four provinces of China]

Objective: To investigate the prevalence, severity of hearing disorders and demographics of people with hearing disorders based on the whole population in Jilin, Guangdong, Shannxi and Gansu provinces in China. Methods: According to " WHO Ear and Hearing Disorders Survey Protocol" , 144 clusters were chosen with probability proportional sampling(PPS) method from the four provinces covering 194, 688, 061 residents. Audiological test, otological examination and questionnaire surveying were conducted for all samples from August, 2014 to September, 2015. The hearing disorders were classified according to WHO criteria and classification. Results: Among 47 511 targeted residents, 45, 052 individuals (94.82% response rate) participated in the survey. The standardized prevalence rates of hearing disorders and disabling hearing disorders were 15.84 % and 5.17 % respectively. Almost 50% of people with hearing disorders had no awareness of it or its starting time. There was significant difference in the prevalence among people of different ages, genders, occupations, provinces, marital status and education levels. The prevalence of hearing disorders increased significantly as age grew. People above 60 years old occupied 55.31% of the total hearing disorders. The prevalence of hearing disorders among male, people of low education and those who lost husband or wife, as well as workers and farmers was relatively higher. Conclusions: The prevalence of hearing disorders is high, and hearing disorders are " invisible" . Demographics and socioeconomic factors significantly influence the prevalence of hearing disorders.

An analysis of the polymorphisms of the GLUT1 gene in urothelial cell carcinomas of the bladder and its correlation with p53, Ki67 and GLUT1 expressions

Frequencies of two glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (XbaI G>T and HaeIII T>C) were studied with urothelial cell carcinomas of the bladder (UCC) and 204 normal persons. And the expression of the p53, Ki67 and GLUT1 was assayed by immunohistochemistry. The frequency of the TT genotype and T allele of the XbaI G>T SNP was decreased in the patients with UCC. The frequency of the CC genotype and C allele of the HaeIII T>C SNP was decreased in the patients with UCC. The GLUT1 XbaI genotype GG was more frequent in higher tumor stage and higher tumor grade patients. In the XbaI G>T SNP, the GG genotype was significantly related to higher Remmele immunoreactive score (IRS) of Ki67 and higher IRS of GLUT1. In conclusion, the TT genotype in XbaI G>T SNP and CC genotype of HaeIII T>C SNP may have protective effect in the carcinogenesis process of UCC. In the XbaI G>T SNP, the GG genotype of was positively related to tumor proliferation, glucose metabolism, tumor grade and stage. Therefore, the variant might become a possible proliferation-related prognostic factor for UCC.

Fundamental limits of image registration performance: Effects of image noise and resolution in CT-guided interventions

PURPOSE

In image-guided procedures, image acquisition is often performed primarily for the task of geometrically registering information from another image dataset, rather than detection / visualization of a particular feature. While the ability to detect a particular feature in an image has been studied extensively with respect to image quality characteristics (noise, resolution) and is an ongoing, active area of research, comparatively little has been accomplished to relate such image quality characteristics to registration performance.

METHODS

To establish such a framework, we derived Cramer-Rao lower bounds (CRLB) for registration accuracy, revealing the underlying dependencies on image variance and gradient strength. The CRLB was analyzed as a function of image quality factors (in particular, dose) for various similarity metrics and compared to registration accuracy using CT images of an anthropomorphic head phantom at various simulated dose levels. Performance was evaluated in terms of root mean square error (RMSE) of the registration parameters.

RESULTS

Analysis of the CRLB shows two primary dependencies: 1) noise variance (related to dose); and 2) sum of squared image gradients (related to spatial resolution and image content). Comparison of the measured RMSE to the CRLB showed that the best registration method, RMSE achieved the CRLB to within an efficiency factor of 0.21, and optimal estimators followed the predicted inverse proportionality between registration performance and radiation dose.

CONCLUSIONS

Analysis of the CRLB for image registration is an important step toward understanding and evaluating an intraoperative imaging system with respect to a registration task. While the CRLB is optimistic in absolute performance, it reveals a basis for relating the performance of registration estimators as a function of noise content and may be used to guide acquisition parameter selection (e.g., dose) for purposes of intraoperative registration.

Increased Efficacy of Entomopathogenic Nematode-Insecticide Combinations Against Holotrichia oblita (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)

Combinations of entomopathogenic nematodes Steinernema longicaudum X-7 and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora H06 with chlorantraniliprole, diflubenzuron, and imidacloprid insecticides at different rates for the control of the white grub, Holotrichia oblita Faldermann (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), were evaluated both in the laboratory and in peanut fields. In the laboratory, the combinations had a synergistic or additive effect on the second-instar larvae of H. oblita and caused faster mortality than one nematode species or insecticide alone. Heterorhabditis bacteriophora-chlorantraniliprole and H. bacteriophora-imidacloprid showed synergistic effects on the larvae. When higher concentrations of the insecticides were combined with nematodes, the stronger synergistic effects were found. In peanut fields, S. longicaudum-imidacloprid, H. bacteriophora-imidacloprid, or H. bacteriophora-chlorantraniliprole also showed synergistic effects against the larvae. The three nematode-insecticide combinations produced similar percentage reductions of the grub larvae and less percentages of injured legumes, compared with the chlorpyrifos treatment. Cost-benefit analysis showed that H. bacteriophora 5.0 × 103 infective juveniles (IJs) per plant (equal to 7.5 × 108 IJ ha-1) combined with imidacloprid at the recommended concentration is a practical strategy for the practitioner to manage the white grubs in the peanut production.

[Salvage surgical treatment for local recurrent nasopharyngeal cancer]

The salvage radiation or surgery is the main choice for recurrent nasopharyngeal cancer now. However the recurrent tumor becomes radiation insensitive and meanwhile,morbidity and mortality become higher.Recently the endoscopic salvage surgery has been developed;the collective evidence from a number of such studies suggests that endoscopic nasopharyngectomy is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of rNPC.This article reviewed related researches about the feasibility,methods, and current situation of endoscopic salvage surgery.