A38 EVALUATING GLYCOCAGED DEXAMETHASONE IN SHIP-DEFICIENT MICE

Background

Corticosteroids systemically reduce immune system activity thereby limiting inflammation in the GI tract. Corticosteroid use is limited by deleterious systemic effects including immunosuppression and adverse effects on growth and development (Giles et al., 2018). The metabolism of dietary polysaccharides, such as plant cell wall xyloglucan, by gut symbionts has been demonstrated to be mediated by niche members of the human gut microbiota (Larsbrink et al., 2014). By caging corticosteroids like dexamethasone (DEX) with xyloglucans to be released by microbiota at the site of disease, there is potential to increase efficacy and limit adverse effects.

Mice deficient in Src homology 2 domain-containing inositol polyphosphate 5’-phosphatase (SHIP-/-) develop spontaneous CD-like ileal inflammation (Ngoh et al., 2016). We have used SHIP-/- mice to compare the efficacy of DEX versus caged DEX to reduce intestinal inflammation.

Aims

Caged DEX will reduce CD-like ileal inflammation in SHIP-/- mice at a lower dose than uncaged DEX because it is released and acts at the site of inflammation.

To assess this hypothesis we propose 3 aims:

Measure decaging activity along the GI tract of SHIP-/- mice ex vivo

Determine the minimum effective dose of DEX required to reduce ileal inflammation in SHIP-/- mice

Determine if equimolar and lower concentrations of caged DEX can reduce ileal inflammation in SHIP-/- mice

Methods

Intestinal contents and feces were harvested from SHIP-/- mice. Decaging activity was measured ex vivo, using caged resorufin (a fluorescent reporter).

SHIP-/- mice were orally gavaged with dexamethasone (or vehicle), or the molar equivalent of caged dexamethasone from 6–8 weeks of age. At 8 weeks of age, gross and histopathology were assessed and IL-1β concentrations were measured in full-thickness tissue homogenates.

Results

SHIP-/- mice demonstrated decaging activity in the cecal, colon, and fecal contents assayed. DEX treatment (3 or 1 mg/kg) of SHIP-/- mice eliminated CD-like gross pathology and histopathology, and reduced IL-1β concentrations in full-thickness ileal tissue homogenates from SHIP-/- mice compared to untreated or vehicle-treated mice. DEX did not have any harmful effects on the intestines of SHIP+/+ mice. 1 or 0.3 mg/kg molar equivalent of caged DEX (3-fold lower concentrations) eliminated CD-like gross pathology in SHIP-/- mice compared to treatment with vehicle control. Additionally, the mean IL-1β concentration in tissue homogenates of mice treated with the molar equivalent of 1 mg/kg caged DEX was reduced

Conclusions

SHIP-/- mice express decaging activity are effectively treated by DEX, and caged DEX shows similar efficacy at reducing SHIP-/- ileal pathology at lower concentrations than uncaged DEX. In future experiments, we will examine caged DEX at a lower concentration, and in 2nd mouse model of intestinal inflammation.

Funding Agencies

GlycoNet

Interfacial π-π Interactions Induced Ultralight, 300 °C-Stable, Wideband Graphene/Polyaramid Foam for Electromagnetic Wave Absorption in Both Gigahertz and Terahertz Bands

High-performance electromagnetic wave-absorbing (EMA) materials used in high-temperature environments are of great importance in both civil and military fields. Herein, we have developed the ultralight graphene/polyaramid composite foam for wideband electromagnetic wave absorption in both gigahertz and terahertz bands, with a higher service temperature of 300 °C. It is found that strong interfacial π-π interactions are spontaneously constructed between graphene and polyaramids (PA), during the foam preparation process. This endows the foam with two advantages for its EMA performance. First, the π-π interactions trigger the interfacial polarization for enhanced microwave dissipation, as confirmed by the experimental and simulation results. The composite foam with an ultralow density (0.0038 g/cm³) shows a minimum reflection loss (RL) of -36.5 dB and an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 8.4 GHz between 2 and 18 GHz band. Meanwhile, excellent terahertz (THz) absorption is also achieved, with EAB covering the entire 0.2-1.6 THz range. Second, the interfacial π-π interactions promote PA to present a unique in-plane orientation configuration along the graphene surface, thus making PA the effective antioxidation barrier layer for graphene at high temperatures. The EMA performance of the foam could be completely preserved after 300 °C treatment in air atmosphere. Furthermore, the composite foam exhibits multifunctions, including good compressive, thermal insulating, and flame-retardant properties. We believe that this study could provide useful guidance for the design of next-generation EMA materials used in harsh environments.

[Effects of regional citrate anticoagulation in continuous veno-venous hemofiltration of severe burn patients]

Objective: To investigate the effects of regional citrate anticoagulation in continuous veno-venous hemofiltration (CVVH) of severe burn patients. Methods: A retrospective non-randomized controlled study was conducted. From January 2017 to August 2020, sixty-eight severe burn patients who met the inclusion criteria were treated with CVVH in Affiliated Hospital of Nankai University. According to the different methods of blood anticoagulation in CVVH treatment, patients were divided into citrate group (n=40) and heparin group (n=28). In the citrate group, 32 males and 8 females were (40±18) years old with total burn area of (62±14)% total body surface area (TBSA); in the heparin group, 22 males and 6 females were (38±16) years old with total burn area of (57±20)%TBSA. Creatinine level, C-reactive protein (CRP) value, and urea nitrogen level in serum of patients were recorded at 0 (immediately), 48, and 96 h after CVVH treatment in 2 groups, urea clearance index was calculated based on urea nitrogen level at 0, 48, and 96 h after CVVH treatment in 2 groups, platelet count (PLT), prothrombin time (PT), and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) in total coagulation of patients were recorded. The frequency of forced hemofiltration termination caused by adverse reactions such as severe hypocalcemia, aggravated wound bleeding, and new bleeding on non-wound surface of patients was recorded within 96 h of CVVH treatment. The duration of daily CVVH use from the beginning to the end was recorded. Data were statistically analyzed with chi-square test, analysis of variance for repeated measurement, independent samples t test, and Bonferroni correction. Results: There were no significant differences in urea nitrogen level, creatinine level, and CRP value in serum of patients between 2 groups at 0 h after treatment (P>0.05). At 48 and 96 h after treatment, urea nitrogen level, creatinine level, and CRP value in serum of patients in citrate group were significantly lower than those in heparin group (t=3.366, -2.315, 2.942, -2.657, 2.011, -2.441, P<0.05), and urea clearance index of patients in citrate group was significantly higher than that in heparin group (t=1.017, 2.233, P<0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in PLT, PT, and APTT of patients between 2 groups at 0 h after treatment (P>0.05). At 48 and 96 h, PLT of patients in citrate group was significantly higher than that in heparin group (t=-3.417, -4.143, P<0.05 or P<0.01), PT of patients in citrate group was significantly shorter than that in heparin group (t=2.760, -3.655, P<0.01), APTT of patients in citrate group was significantly shorter than that in heparin group (t=3.719, 5.146, P<0.05 or P<0.01). Within 96 h of treatment, there was 1 case of hypocalcemia and 1 case of aggravated wound bleeding resulting in forced hemofiltration termination in citrate group, but there was no new bleeding on non-wound surface; in heparin group, there was no hypocalcemia, but 7 cases of aggravated wound bleeding and 2 cases of new bleeding on non-wound surface (both at the tracheotomy site) resulting in forced hemofiltration termination. The use time of blood purification filter of patients in citrate group was (11.7±4.8) h, obviously longer than (6.6±2.5) h in heparin group (t=3.310, P<0.01). Conclusions: The use of regional citrate anticoagulation in CVVH treatment of severe burn patients has the advantages including little effect on coagulation function and high safety, can effectively prolong the use time of filter and improve the therapeutic effect, but this conclusion still needs to be further verified in clinical application.

[Quantitative myocardial perfusion parameters in subjects without coronary artery lesions based on computed tomography dynamic myocardial perfusion imaging]

Objective: To determinate the range of quantitative myocardial perfusion parameters (MBF, MBV) in subjects without coronary artery lesions by dynamic computed tomography myocardial perfusion imaging (CTP). Methods: Subjects with occasional chest tightness or family history of coronary artery disease coming to Fuwai Hospital underwent coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) were prospectively enrolled. A total of 34 subjects [mean age (50±7) years, range from 33 to 65 years; 15 male and 19 female] were enrolled. Coronary lesions were not confirmed in any subjects using CCTA and volunteered for stress and rest dynamic CTP examination. MBF and MBV values were calculated in each myocardial segment using a 17-segment model. The global ranges of MBF and MBV were analyzed, and the gender variability and regional variability were compared. Results: The mean global MBF and MBV at rest and under stress were (115.5±27.4) ml·100 g^-1·min^-1, (212.8±40.8) ml·100 g^-1·min^-1 and (17.6±4.0) ml/100 g, (25.8±4.6) ml/100 g, respectively. The absolute and resolute reserves of MBF and MBV [(102.8±41.5) ml·100 g^-1·min^-1, 107.7%±52.5%; (9.3±5.2) ml/100 g, 62.1%±47.4%] were highest in the right coronary artery territory, but without any significant differences. The stress MBF and absolute reserve of MBF in females were higher than those of males [(228.6±39.9) ml·100 g^-1·min^-1, (113.3±46.2) ml·100 g^-1·min^-1; (192.8±33.4) ml·100 g^-1·min^-1, (77.0±41.2) ml·100 g^-1·min^-1] (both P<0.05). The MBF resolute reserve, rest MBV, stress MBV and MBV absolute and resolute reserves were higher in females, but without significant differences (all P>0.05). Conclusion: The mean global MBF and MBV at rest and under stress were (115.5±27.4) ml·100 g^-1·min^-1, (212.8±40.8) ml·100 g^-1·min^-1 and (17.6±4.0) ml/100 g, (25.8±4.6) ml/100 g. The MBF under stress perfusion and MBF absolute reserve of females are higher than those of males.

Clinical features and survival in pulmonary Takayasu's arteritis associated pulmonary hypertension: a national registry study

Background

The clinical features and long-term outcomes of patients with pulmonary Takayasu's arteritis associated pulmonary hypertension (PTA-PH) have not been well studied.

Purpose

To assess the clinical characteristics and long-term survival outcome in patients with PTA-PH.

Methods

We conducted a multi-center cohort study using the clinical, functional, and hemodynamic data from the National Rare Diseases Registry System of China. Patients with Takayasu's arteritis and pulmonary artery involvement, who fulfilled the 1990 American College of Rheumatology and/or modified Ishikawa criteria, from 13 referral centers of China, were included. The diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension (PH) was confirmed by right heart catheterization findings. The primary outcome was time from diagnosis of PTA-PH to the occurrence of all-cause death.

Results

Between Jan. 2007 and Jan. 2019, a total of 140 patients with PTA-PH were included, with a mean age of 41.4±14.3 years at diagnosis, and a female predominance (81%). The most common symptoms were exertional dyspnea (91%) and hemoptysis (36%). The majority of patients (87%) exhibited bilateral pulmonary artery involvement. Pulmonary lobar artery was the most frequently affected vessel (100%), followed by segmental artery (82%) and left/right pulmonary artery trunk (49%). Severely compromised hemodynamic profiles were identified in these patients, indicating by elevated mean pulmonary artery pressure (48, interquartile range [IQR] 38–59 mm Hg) and pulmonary vascular resistance (9.4, IQR 5.7–13.3 Wood U). The overall 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year survival rates in PTA-PH were 94.0%, 83.2%, and 77.2%, respectively (Figure). Predictors associated with increased risk of all-cause death were the presence of syncope (hazard ratio [HR]: 4.88; 95% CI: 1.62–14.74; p=0.005), N-terminal pro-B type natriuretic peptide level (HR: 1.04; 95% CI: 1.02–1.06; p&lt;0.001), and right atrial pressure (HR: 1.07; 95% CI: 1.02–1.73; p=0.009).

Conclusions

In this national registry study, the reported clinical features and long-term prognosis of patients with PTA-PH are novel findings. These findings may provide new insights on this specific pulmonary hypertension entity.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): The National Key Research and Development Program of China Kaplan-Meier plot for survival rate

MiR-30a-5p inhibits proliferation, migration and invasion of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells by targeting NUCB2

BACKGROUND

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a malignant head and neck tumor arising in the nasopharynx. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are elucidated to exert tumor-suppressing function in human cancers. Numerous studies have manifested that miR-30a-5p serves as an anti-oncogene in various cancers.

OBJECTIVE

To research the biological function and molecular mechanism of miR-30a-5p in NPC.

METHODS

The morphology of NPC tissues was revealed by H&E staining. Transwell and wound healing assays were applied to investigate the effects of miR-30a-5p on NPC cell migration. The binding interaction between miR-30a-5p and nucleobindin 2 (NUCB2) was identified by luciferase reporter assay. Xenograft nude mice were used to detect the influence of miR-30a-5p on NPC tumor growth.

RESULTS

MiR-30a-5p was downregulated in NPC tissues and cells. The overexpression ofmiR-30a-5p inhibited proliferation, migration and invasion abilities of NPC cells. Moreover, NUCB2 was revealed to be a downstream target gene of miR-30a-5p, and knockdown of NUCB2 repressed the malignant behaviors of NPC cells and tumor growth. Additionally, rescue experiments revealed that miR-30a-5p suppressed the proliferation, migration and invasion of NPC cells via targeting NUCB2 in vitro. Meanwhile, in vivo assays depicted that NUCB2 overexpression rescued the effects induced by miR-30a-5p upregulation on tumor growth.

CONCLUSION

MiR-30a-5p modulates NPC progression by targeting NUCB2. These findings lay a foundation for exploring the clinical treatment of NPC.

Successful Application of a Galanin-Coated Scaffold for Periodontal Regeneration

The nervous system exerts finely tuned control over all aspects of the life of an organism, including pain, sensation, growth, and development. Recent developments in tissue regeneration research have increasingly turned to small molecule peptides to tailor and augment the biological response following tissue loss or injury. In the present study, we have introduced the small molecule peptide galanin (GAL) as a novel scaffold-coating agent for the healing and regeneration of craniofacial tissues. Using immunohistochemistry, we detected GAL and GAL receptors in healthy periodontal tissues and in the proximity of blood vessels, while exposure to our periodontal disease regimen resulted in a downregulation of GAL. In a 3-dimensional bioreactor culture, GAL coating of collagen scaffolds promoted cell proliferation and matrix synthesis. Following subcutaneous implantation, GAL-coated scaffolds were associated with mineralized bone-like tissue deposits, which reacted positively for alizarin red and von Kossa, and demonstrated increased expression and protein levels of RUNX2, OCN, OSX, and iBSP. In contrast, the GAL receptor antagonist galantide blocked the effect of GAL on Runx2 expression and inhibited mineralization in our subcutaneous implantation model. Moreover, GAL coating promoted periodontal regeneration and a rescue of the periodontal defect generated in our periodontitis model mice. Together, these data demonstrate the efficacy of the neuropeptide GAL as a coating material for tissue regeneration. They are also suggestive of a novel role for neurogenic signaling pathways in craniofacial and periodontal regeneration.

[Macular buckling for highly myopic traction maculopathy]

Objective: To observe the efficacy of macular buckling in the treatment of highly myopic traction maculopathy. Methods: Retrospective case series study. The patients with high myopia who underwent macular buckling at the Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center of Sun Yat-sen University from June 2014 to June 2019 were enrolled, including 136 males and 212 females. The age was (56.68±11.59) years old. The outcomes measured included retinal reattachment rate, foveoschisis recovery rate, macular hole closure rate, postoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), axial length (AL), and complications. The measurements were recorded preoperatively and at 1 month, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years postoperatively. The data was statistically analyzed using paired t test. Results: A total of 378 eyes were included, including 216 eyes with foveoschisis and macular detachment and 162 eyes with macular holes and macular detachment. Among them, 296 eyes underwent macular buckling, and the other 82 eyes underwent macular buckling combined with pars plana vitrectomy. During the follow-up period, 373 eyes (98.68%) achieved retinal reattachment; in patients with foveoschisis, 204 eyes (94.44%) were recovered; in patients with macular holes, 89 eyes (54.09%) achieved closure. All the postoperative results of BCVA were better than the preoperative value (1.459±0.841). BCVA continued to increase from postoperative month 1, remained stable at 1 year, and reached 0.908±0.606 at 3 years (t=6.896, P<0.01). All the postoperative results of AL were shorter than the preoperative value. The AL shortened by (4.423±1.740)mm at one month (t=33.144, P<0.01), increased gradually thereafter, remained stable at 1 year, and shortened by (2.101±1.643) mm at three years (t=6.392, P<0.01). The common complications included transient high intraocular pressure in 98 eyes (25.92%), epiretinal hemorrhage in 67 eyes (17.72%), and vitreous hemorrhage in 9 eyes (2.38%), which all resolved spontaneously within 1 month. In the early postoperative period, all patients had a certain degree of eye movement limitation, and 39 eyes (10.31%) had diplopia which resolved within 6 months without treatment. The strabismus surgery was arranged to treat esotropia in 6 eyes (1.58%). The macular buckle was removed from 1 eye (0.26%) because of the inability to tolerate diplopia. There were 8 eyes (2.11%) requiring a second operation to adjust the position of the buckle. The macular buckle was also removed from 4 eyes (1.05%) due to the implant rejection. Conclusion: Macular buckling can effectively shorten the AL, resolve posterior scleral staphyloma, and improve vision in the treatment of highly myopic traction maculopathy. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2021, 57: 433-439).

[Correlation between intimate partner-related violence and high-risk sexual behavior among men who have sex with men]

Objective: To explore the experience of intimate partner-related violence (IPV) and its correlation with high-risk sexual behaviors among MSM. Methods: MSM were recruited in Ji'nan, Qingdao, and Jining of Shandong province from April to July 2019. Information on socio-demographic characteristics, AIDS prevention and control knowledge, IPV experience in the last year and high-risk sexual behaviors in the previous six months was collected by face-to-face questionnaire. EpiData 3.1 and SPSS 24.0 software were used for data cleansing and statistical analysis. Results: The average age of the 1 122 MSM was (29.80±8.78) years, with 68.1% (764/1 122) unmarried. 9.8% (110/1 122) had IPV experiences in the past year. MSM who came from Jining and Qingdao, living in the local area for more than two years, met their sexual partners in bar/bathroom/park, having no basic knowledge about AIDS, being drug users, and diagnosed with STD in the previous year, had a higher proportion of IPV experiences in the last year (P<0.05). 49.0% (550/1 122) and 20.9% (234/1 122) had unprotected anal intercourse and group sex behavior during the past six months, respectively. The results of multivariate logistic regression showed that MSM who experienced IPV were likely to have unprotected anal intercourse and group sex behavior during the past six months (aOR = 1.82, 95%CI: 1.14-2.91;aOR = 3.30, 95%CI: 2.10-5.20) than those did not experience IPV. Conclusions: IPV exists in the MSM population, and the IPV experience is positively associated with high-risk sexual behaviors. Targeted intervention to reduce the risk of high-risk sexual behaviors should be taken among MSM who experienced IPV.

[Comparison of the clinical outcomes of haploidentical and matched-sibling donor stem cell transplantation for T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in complete remission]

目的

比较亲缘单倍型造血干细胞移植（HIDT）和同胞相合造血干细胞移植（MSDT）治疗完全缓解期（CR）急性T淋巴细胞白血病（T-ALL）的疗效。

方法

回顾性分析2012年5月至2017年5月间在河北燕达陆道培医院接受HIDT（81例）和MSDT（17例）的CR期T-ALL患者的临床特点和预后。

结果

HIDT组、MSDT组移植后100 d Ⅱ～Ⅳ度急性GVHD发生率分别为51.9％（95％CI42.0％～64.0％）、29.4％（95％CI 14.1％～61.4％）（P＝0.072），Ⅲ/Ⅳ度急性GVHD发生率分别为9.8％（95％CI 5.1％～19.1％）、11.8％（95％CI 3.2％～43.3％）（P＝1.000），巨细胞病毒（CMV）血症发生率分别为53.1％（95％CI 43.3％～65.2％）、29.4％（95％CI 14.1％～61.4％）（P＝0.115），EB病毒（EBV）血症发生率分别为35.8％（95％CI 26.8％～47.9％）、11.8％（95％CI 3.2％～43.3％）（P＝0.048）。HIDT、MSDT两组移植后5年总生存（OS）率分别为60.5％（95％CI 5.4％～49.0％）、68.8％（95％CI 11.8％～40.0％）（P＝0.315），无白血病生存（LFS）率分别为58.0％（95％CI 5.5％～46.5％）、68.8％（95％CI11.8％～40.0％）（P＝0.258），累积复发率分别为16.1％（95％ CI 9.8％～26.4％）、11.8％（95％ CI3.2％～43.3％）（P＝0.643），非复发死亡率（NRM）分别为25.9％（95％CI 17.9％～37.5％）、19.4％（95％CI6.9％～54.4％）（P＝0.386）。

结论

对于CR期T-ALL患者，当缺乏合适供者时，HIDT可作为替代选择。

[Feasibility multi-center study of artificial intelligence assistance in cervical fluid-based cytology diagnosis]

Objective: To propose a method of cervical cytology screening based on deep convolutional neural network and compare it with the diagnosis of cytologists. Method: The deep segmentation network was used to extract 618 333 regions of interest (ROI) from 5, 516 cytological pathological images. Combined with the experience of physicians, the deep classification network with the ability to analyze ROI was trained. The classification results were used to construct features, and the decision model was used to complete the classification of cytopathological images. Results: The sensitivity and specificity were 89.72%, 58.48%, 33.95% and 95.94% respectively. Among the smears derived from four different preparation methods, this algorithm had the best effect on natural fallout with a sensitivity of 91.10%, specificity of 69.32%, positive predictive rate of 41.41%, and negative predictive rate of 97.03%. Conclusion: Deep convolutional neural network image recognition technology can be applied to cervical cytology screening.

CircTP53 promotes the proliferation of thyroid cancer via targeting miR-1233-3p/MDM2 axis

BACKGROUND

Follicular cells give rise to thyroid cancer. Worldwide thyroid cancer incidence continues to rise in recent decades but the mortality rate remains at a stable level. The discovery of novel molecular mechanisms in the pathogenesis of thyroid cancer will promote new diagnostic or therapeutic strategies. Circular RNA (circRNA) is a type of noncoding RNA which is characterized by the covalently closed loop and non-protein coding capacity. The abnormal expression of circRNAs is an important part during the pathogenesis and development of thyroid cancer. CircTP53 is a novel circRNA, and we aimed to investigate its function in the pathogenesis of thyroid cancer and to further demonstrate the underlying molecular mechanism.

METHODS

The levels of circTP53, miR-1233-3p, and other relative mRNA were analyzed by qRT-PCR. Protein levels were shown by Western blot. RNA-pulldown assay and luciferase assay were employed to examine the interaction between circTP53 and miR-1233-3p. Cell proliferation was analyzed by the MTT assay.

RESULTS

CircTP53 was a circRNA highly expressed in thyroid cancer tissues. CircTP53 promoted cell proliferation and cell viability of TPC-1 cells. Knockdown of circTP53 inhibited the expression of Mouse double minute 2 (MDM2) and increased the protein level of p53. CircTP53 acted as a target of miR-1233-3p to increase MDM2 expression. p53 expression in thyroid cancer tissue exhibited a negative correlation with circTP53 expression.

CONCLUSION

In thyroid cancer, overexpressed circTP53 decreased the protein level of p53 via targeting miR-1233-3p/MDM2 axis and promoted cancer cell proliferation.

[Relationship between new-type drug use and high risk sex behavior in men who have sex with men]

Objective: To understand the relationship between new-type drug use and high risk behavior in men who have sex with men (MSM) in Shandong province. Methods: Cross-sectional surveys was conducted to collect the information about demographics, sexual and drug use behaviors of MSM and HIV-related services in MSM in three sentinel surveillance sites in Shandong from April to July in 2019. Blood samples were taken from the MSM for serological tests of HIV antibody and syphilis antibody. Results: A total of 1 203 MSM were included in this study. The average age of the MSM was 30.2±8.9 years. Among these MSM, 67.7% (815) were unmarried; 66.9% (805) had education level of college or above; 62.2% (721/1 160) had unprotected sex behaviors and 16.3% (189/1 160) had group sex behavior in the past six months and 54.2% (652/1 203) ever used new-type drugs. HIV infection and syphilis prevalence rates were 3.1% (37/1 203) and 4.7% (56/1 203), respectively. Multivariable logistic analysis indicated that MSM who had unprotected anal sex in the past six months were more likely to be from Qingdao (aOR=1.59, 95%CI:1.13-2.23), with education level of high school or below (aOR=1.61, 95%CI: 1.20-2.16), with male sex partners from bars/dance halls or other venues (aOR=1.69, 95%CI: 1.06-2.69), with HIV knowledge awareness score <6 (aOR=1.55, 95%CI: 1.01-2.37), with ≥2 sex partner in the past week (aOR=1.48, 95%CI: 1.12-1.95), to have group sex behaviors in the past six months (aOR=2.43, 95%CI:1.61-3.67) and to use new-type drugs (aOR=1.46, 95%CI: 1.11-1.91). MSM who had group sex were more likely to have following features: being from Qingdao (aOR=2.21, 95%CI: 1.45-3.38), non-Shandong residents (aOR=2.13, 95%CI: 1.28-3.55), HIV knowledge awareness score ≥6 (aOR=3.11, 95%CI: 1.55-6.25), ever having unprotected anal sex behaviors (aOR=2.60, 95%CI: 1.71-3.96) and ever having male commercial sex (aOR=3.38, 95%CI: 1.92-5.95) in the past six months, ever using new-type drugs (aOR=2.71, 95%CI: 1.82-4.04), and never having HIV testing in the past year (aOR=2.66, 95%CI: 1.59-4.43). Conclusion: New-type drug use is common in MSM in Shandong. The use of new-type drugs promotes unprotected sex and group sex in MSM. Surveillance and intervention measures targeting this population should be strengthened.

[Etiological analysis and short-term efficacy evaluation of acute liver failure in children]

Objective: To explore etiology, optimize the search direction of etiology, and short-term efficacy evaluation of acute liver failure in children. Methods: Children with acute liver failure who were diagnosed in the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from November 2011 to November 2019 were collected. Gender difference, age, living environment, etiological factors on the seasonal onset and different etiological profile of short-term prognosis were statistically analyzed. Chi-square test or Fisher's exact probability method was used to compare the rate and the constituent ratio between groups. Results: Among the 236 cases, 114 (48.31%) had unknown etiology and 122 (51.69%) had definite etiology. In the definite etiology group, 38 (16.10%), 27 (11.44%), 22 (9.32%), 15 (6.36%), 17 (7.20%), and 3 (1.27%) cases were related to drugs/toxicants, infection, congenital/vascular/biliary diseases, genetic metabolic diseases, tumor-related, and autoimmune diseases. In addition, the overall etiological distribution did not change statistically with factors such as gender, age, and seasonal onset (P > 0.05), while the difference in different living environments was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Different initial-diagnosed departments had different etiological rates, with liver transplantation department being the highest (78.26%), and pediatrics department the lowest (26.09%). In 122 children with definite etiology, there was no significant difference in gender ratio between the different etiology groups (P>0.05), but there were significant differences in age, living environment and seasonal onset (P < 0.05). Among them, congenital development/vascular/biliary tract and infectivity were the main factors in children < 3 years old, and drug/toxin-related factors were the main factors in children > 3 years old. Most of the rural children had drug/toxin and infection-related etiology, while most of the urban children had tumor and drug/toxin-related etiology. In summer and autumn, drug/toxicant correlation was dominant, while in winter and spring, infection correlation was dominant. In the unknown etiology group, the clinical cure + improvement rate between the medical treatment group and the surgical treatment group was not statistically significant (37.50% vs. 20.00%, P > 0.05), while in the definite etiology group, the above differences were statistically significant (43.96% vs. 83.87%, P < 0.05). Among the different etiology groups, the congenital/vascular/biliary group had the best short-term efficacy (72.72%, 16/22), followed by the drug/toxicity-related group (60.53%, 23/38), and the tumor-related group had the worst (23.53%, 4/17). Conclusion: The definite etiology of acute liver failure in about half of children is still vague. The population distribution of children with definite etiology is related to age, living environment and season, but not to gender. However, the different ages, different living environments, and different seasonal onsets have definite etiology, and the short-term clinical efficacy of the treatment is significantly improved after the definite etiology is identified.

[Correlation between alcohol drinking and high risk sexual behaviors in HIV negative clients of female sex workers]

Objective: To explore the correlation between alcohol drinking and high-risk sexual behaviors in HIV negative clients of female sex workers and provide scientific evidence for prevention of HIV sexual transmission. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in HIV negative clients in Ji'nan and Haikou from December 2018 to May 2019. The estimated sample size was 337, the information about their demographic characteristics, AIDS knowledge awareness, sexual behaviors and alcohol drinking habit were collected through convenience sampling. The data were analyzed by using SPSS 24.0 software. Results: A total of 381 clients were included in this study. Most of them were less than 40 years old, accounting for 89.2% (340/381); 85.3% of them (325/381) reported an education level of high school and above; the clients who were married, had cohabitation with females or had girl friends accounted for 53.2% (202/380). The overall awareness rate of AIDS knowledge was 83.7% (318/380). Of all participants, 80.8% (308/381) had commercial sex in the past year, 79.8% (304/381) had non-commercial sex partners, 62.7% (239/381) had high-risk sexual behaviors. The results of logistic regression showed that compared with those with alcohol drinking frequency ≤2 times per month in last year, the clients with alcohol drinking frequency more than once a week (aOR=3.22, 95%CI: 1.25-8.27) were more likely to have high risk sexual behaviors after adjustment for age, living area, location type of residence, time of local residence, education level, monthly income level, occupation, marital status, knowledge awareness of AIDS and HIV related services, the number of commercial or non-commercial sexual partners in the past year, cost of commercial sex and HIV test frequency. Conclusions: Alcohol drinking is related to high risk sexual behaviors in HIV negative clients, and will increase the risk of HIV transmission. To control AIDS, the intervention of alcohol drinking should be combined with other preventions to improve the correct use of condoms.

MiR-1-3p suppresses cell proliferation and invasion and targets STC2 in gastric cancer

OBJECTIVE

MiR-1 has been reported to act as an inhibitory microRNA in gastric cancer (GC). This study aimed to investigate the regulatory mechanism by which miR-1-3p blocks the progression of GC by targeting stanniocalcin 2 (STC2).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The expression level of miR-1-3p in GC was assessed via quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). Expressions of STC2 were measured by qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis. Proliferation and invasion assays were detected by MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) and transwell assays, respectively. Moreover, the dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to confirm the binding sites between miR-1-3p and STC2.

RESULTS

MiR-1-3p was significantly down-regulated in GC. Moreover, abnormal expression of miR-1-3p was correlated with GC tumor size. Functionally, overexpression of miR-1-3p inhibited proliferation and invasion in GC by inhibiting stanniocalcin 2 (STC2) expressions. In contrast, STC2 was significantly up-regulated in GC. Furthermore, miR-1-3p negatively regulated STC2 expression in GC. The upregulation of STC2 weakened the inhibitory effect of miR-1-3p in GC.

CONCLUSIONS

MiR-1-3p suppressed cell proliferation and invasion by targeting STC2 in GC, providing a novel therapeutic target for GC.

MRI findings of central nervous system involvement in children with haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis: correlation with clinical biochemical tests

AIM

To investigate the brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of children with haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) with central nervous system (CNS) involvement, and to investigate the correlation with clinical biochemical tests.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Clinical and MRI data were collected from 118 children with HLH-CNS between January 2012 and June 2019. Patients were grouped according to their MRI findings, and statistical methods were used to test for correlations between the MRI findings and biochemical variables.

RESULTS

Patients were divided into three groups, including normal appearance (Group 1, 17/118), diffuse parenchymal volume loss (Group 2, 44/118), and brain parenchyma lesions (Group 3, 57/118) containing three subtypes of brain lesions and HLH-CNS complications. Comparing biochemical values among the three groups revealed a significant difference for all values (p<0.05), except for cell counts in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). A pairwise comparison further showed significant inter-group differences for most of the variables. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient also demonstrated that CSF cell counts (r=0.193, p=0.036), CSF microprotein content (r=0.379, p<0.001), serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST; r=0.521, p<0.001), serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH; r=0.514, p<0.001) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT; r=0.326, p<0.001) correlated positively with the MRI groups, while platelet count (PLT; r=-0.633, p<0.001) and plasma fibrinogen (FIB; r=-0.258, p=0.005) correlated negatively.

CONCLUSION

Classification of brain MRI findings of HLH-CNS correlates well with the results of several key biochemical tests. Brain MRI is a promising method to elucidate illness severity and clinical outcomes.