The Complete Mitochondrial Genome of Eurasian Minnow (Phoxinus cf. phoxinus) from the Heilongjiang River, and Its Phylogenetic Implications

Simple Summary

Fishes of genus Phoxinus belong to the family Leusciscidae and are widely distributed in Eurasia. Since the early 20th century, it has generally been accepted that the European minnow (P. phoxinus) was the only valid species of Phoxinus in Europe. After the loss of most species from North America and Asia, only those taxa in Euasia originally placed under the name P. phoxinus remain in the genus. In recent years, more than 20 lineages of genus Phoxinus have been identified in Europe, more than 10 of which have been considered as valid species in taxonomy. Existing morphological and genetic cues suggest distinct differences between Asian and European members of Phoxinus. Mitochondrial DNA from European Phoxinus spp. and their Asian relatives provide evidence that Far Eastern phoxinins should be divided into two genera: Phoxinus and Rhynchocypris. The updated phylogeny of Phoxinus indicates five mtDNA lineages in Asia. The validity of some of these lineages have been supported previously by morphological evidence.

Abstract

Over the past two decades, the genus Phoxinus has undergone extensive taxonomic revision and many new species or mitochondrial lineages have been found in Europe. However, Asian populations of Phoxinus spp. have received less attention and have rarely been compared with their European relatives. In this study, we deciphered the 16,789-nucleotide mitochondrial genome of Phoxinus cf. phoxinus from the Heilongjiang River (HLJ) and compared it with other known mitogenomes or partial mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences of Phoxinus spp. We discovered that all known mitochondrial genomes of Phoxinus had a typical mtDNA architecture across vertebrates, but their D-loop regions varied greatly in length. A repetitive motif of ~130 bp was identified in the D-loop regions of Phoxinus spp. The unusual repetitive structure was revealed at the beginning of D-loop regions of all known mitogenomes of Phoxinus spp. The length differences of the D-loop region were attributed mainly to the number of repetitive motifs and the inserted sequences among them. However, this repetitive structure was absent in the other Far East phoxinins. This is further evidence for the notion that Far Eastern phoxinins should be divided into two genera: Phoxinus and Rhynchocypris. All mtDNA sequences (including three mitogenomes) from South Korea represent the same genetic lineage, as there were only slight differences among them. The remaining six mtDNA sequences are highly divergent and represent different lineages of the genus, as supported by partial mtDNA sequences. The updated phylogeny of genus Phoxinus suggests that there are five distinct mtDNA lineages in Asia. The Asian lineages have diverged markedly from their European relatives and should not be included with the European minnow (P. phoxinus).

[Comparative study of decentration, tilt and visual quality after implantation of aspherical intraocular lenses]

Objective: To compare the difference of decentration and tilt among 4 kinds of aspherical intraocular lenses (IOLs), and to analyze their objective visual quality. Methods: Prospective non-randomized controlled clinical trial. Age-related cataract patients who planned to undergo phacoemulsification and IOL implantation in the Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College from April to June in 2020 were divided into ZCB00 group, SN60WF group, A1-UV group, and AO group according to IOL types. Thirty right eyes and thirty left eyes were selected in each group. Before operation and at 1 day, 1 week and 1 month postoperatively, decentration and tilt values were measured by a new swept-source anterior-segment optical coherence tomography device (CASIA2), and wavefront aberrations, objective scatter index (OSI), modulation transfer function cut off frequency (MTF cut off) and Strehl ratio (SR) were also examined. Values of decentration, tilt and visual quality compared among 4 groups were took from the right eye. One-way analysis of variance was used for inter-group comparison, and repeated measurement one-way analysis of variance was used for intra-group comparison. Data between right eyes and left eyes from all the individuals were compared by independent sample t-test. Results: A total of 181 patients (240 eyes) were enrolled, and 169 patients (224 eyes) completed the follow-up (114 right eyes and 110 left eyes). There were 77 males and 92 females, with an age of (69±9) years. There was no significant difference in gender, age, axial length, decentration and tilt of crystalline lens and IOL power among 4 groups (all P>0.05). At 1 day, 1 week and 1 month postoperatively, there was significant difference in decentration value among 4 groups (F=7.11, 6.12, 4.66; all P<0.05). For further pairwise comparison, the decentration value of SN60WF group was higher than that of the other 3 groups at 1 day and 1 week postoperatively, and the decentration value of SN60WF group was (0.259±0.101) mm at 1 month postoperatively, which was higher than that of ZCB00 group (0.177±0.099) mm and AO group (0.163±0.122) mm, and the differences were statistically significant (using SNK-q test, both P<0.05). The IOL tilt value in the ZCB00 group, SN60WF group, A1-UV group, and AO group at 1 month postoperatively were (4.806±1.129)°, (5.080±1.309)°, (4.586±1.338)°, (5.112±1.406)°, respectively. No significant difference in tilt value among 4 groups was found at any time after surgery (all P>0.05). In each group, there was no significant difference in decentration and tilt value at different postoperative time points (all P>0.05). At 1 month postoperatively, there was no significant difference in decentration and tilt at horizontal and vertical directions respectively among 4 groups (all P>0.05), and in each group, there was no significant difference in decentration and tilt value between right eyes and left eyes (all P>0.05), and IOLs tended to tilt towards the inferonasal or inferotemporal direction in both eyes. With 4-mm and 6-mm pupil diameter, there was significant difference in internal (F=131.32, 85.17) and ocular (F=46.64, 47.55) spherical aberration among 4 groups (all P<0.01). For further pairwise comparison, the spherical aberration of AO group was higher than that of the other 3 groups, and the difference was statistically significant (using SNK-q test, all P<0.05). There was no significant difference in OSI, MTF cut off and SR among 4 groups (all P>0.05). Conclusions: The four types of IOLs show decentration and tilt in varying degrees after implantation in the capsular bag, but this difference do not lead to clinical significance. Human eyes have tolerance to mild decentration and tilt of aspheric IOLs, showing good visual quality.

POS0349 DECOY RECEPTOR 3 AND ITS SIGNAL PATHWAY CONTRIBUTE TO PATHOGENESIS IN PRIMARY GOUTY ARTHRITIS

Background

Gouty arthritis (GA) is an autoinflammatory disease caused by the deposition of monosodium urate crystal (MSU) in the joints and surrounding tissues, which lead to a series of complex inflammatory cascade amplification reactions.The clinical symptoms of acute GA attack rapidly, but often alleviate spontaneously within 7 ~ 10 days, which is one of the significant characteristics different from other joint diseases or autoimmune diseases. However, the exact molecular mechanism of its inflammatory self limitation is still unclear. The phenotypic imbalance of Th1 / Th2 cells and the M1/ M2 polarization of macrophages may be involved in the inflammatory self limitation of gout[1].Decoy receptor 3 (DCR3) can differentiate T cells into Th2 phenotype, promote M2 polarization of macrophages, and play the functions of immune regulation and repair[2].DCR3 and its Signal Pathway are involved in the pathogenesis of tumors and a variety of autoimmune diseases, and have become an important research target of tumors and immune related diseases.However, studies on DcR3 related molecular pathway and GA are scarce, and the specific regulatory mechanism is unknown.

Objectives

To assess the contribution of DcR3 and its signal pathway to gout and the clinical importance of these genes in primary gouty arthritis.

Methods

The mRNA expression levels of DCR3 and its signal pathway(DR3, TL1A, Fas, FasL, Ligth, LigthR, LTgthRNA expression levels of DCR3 and its signal pathway(DR3gout and the clinical importance of these genes in primary gouty arthritis.nt research target of tumors and immune related diseases.However, studies on DcR3 related moathway expression levels and laboratory features was analyzed in GA patients.

Results

The expression levels of DCR3, FasL were much lower in the AG and IG group than in the HC groups (p<0.05), and no significant difference was detected between AG and IG groups(P>0.05)(a,e). The expression levels of DR3 were much lower in the AG and IG group than in the HC groups (p<0.05), and much lower in the AG group than in the IG groups (p<0.05)(b). The expression levels of TL1A were much higher in the AG group than in the IG and HC groups (p<0.05), and no significant difference was detected between IG and HC groups(P>0.05)(c).The expression levels of Light, LightR were much lower in the AG group than in the HC groups (p<0.05), and no significant difference was detected between AG and IG groups, IG and HC groups(P>0.05)(f,g).The expression levels of LTlower in the AG and IG group than in the HC groups (p<0.05(p<0.05), and no significant difference was detected between AG and IG groups, IG and HC groups(P>0.05)(h).In GA patients, the levels of DcR3 related molecular pathway gene correlated with laboratory inflammatory and metabolic indexes.

Conclusion

Altered DCR3 and its signal pathway expression suggests that DCR3 related molecular pathway is involved in the pathogenesis of GA and participates in regulating inflammation and metabolism.

References

[1]Desai J, Steiger S, Anders HJ. Molecular Pathophysiology of Gout[J]. Trends Mol Med. 2017 Aug;23(8):756-768. DOI:10.1016/j.molmed.2017.06.005.

[2]Pan YG, Huang MT, Sekar P, et al. Decoy Receptor 3 Inhibits Monosodium Urate-Induced NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation via Reduction of Reactive Oxygen Species Production and Lysosomal Rupture[J]. Front Immunol. 2021 Mar 3;12:638676.DOI:10.3389/fimmu.2021.638676.

Figure 1.

Relative Expression of DcR3 related molecular pathway gene in the PBMCs of Patients.The expression levels of DCR3, FasL were much lower in the AG and IG group than in the HC groups (p<0.05)(a,e). The expression levels of DR3 were much lower in the AG and IG group than in the HC groups (p<0.05), and much lower in the AG group than in the IG groups (p<0.05)(b). The expression levels of TL1A were much higher in the AG group than in the IG and HC groups (p<0.05)(c).The expression levels of Light, LightR were much lower in the AG group than in the HC groups (p<0.05)(f,g).The expression levels of LTβR were much higher in the AG group than in the HC groups (p<0.05)(h).

Acknowledgements

Institute of Research Center of Gout and Hyperuricemia of the Affiliated Hospital, North Sichuan Medical College

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

AB0702 Coexistence of systemic sclerosis and microscopic polyangitis associated with pulmonary renal syndrome: a case report and literature review

Background

Systemic sclerosis is a chronic immune disease characterized by varying degrees of fibrosis of skin and internal organs. Microscopic polyangitis, as a subtype of ANCA associated vasculitis, mainly involves small blood vessels, often manifested as necrotizing glomerulonephritis and pulmonary capillary vasculitis. Pulmonary renal syndrome is characterized by diffuse alveolar hemorrhage based on pulmonary capillary vasculitis and rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis, which can be derived from a variety of autoimmune diseases, of which ANCA associated vasculitis accounts for about 60%[1]. The cases of coexistence of systemic sclerosis and microscopic polyangitis associated with pulmonary renal syndrome in clinic are rare, which is often dangerous and is easy to miss diagnosis or misdiagnosis.

Objectives

To investigate the clinical characteristics, diagnosis and treatment of coexistence of systemic sclerosis (SSC) and microscopic polyangitis（MPA）associated with pulmonary renal syndrome (PRS).

Methods

The clinical data, diagnosis and treatment process of a patient who has SSC combined with MPA and PRS were summarized and analyzed. And the literature was reviewed to explore the correlation of the pathogenesis and clinical experience of SSC complicated with MPA and PRS.

Results

The case is a middle-aged male who was diagnosed as SSc due to the hardening of the skin of both hands，Reynolds phenomenon, the anti-scl-70 antibody are positive. The patient suffered from repeated hemoptysis, progressive dyspnea, severe anemia and renal insufficiency, so he was diagnosed as MPA with PRS. After giving glucocorticoid, immunosuppressant and anti-infection treatment, his condition has improved. A total of 7 case reports were retrieved by reviewing the relevant literature.A total of 7 patients were reported.They were first diagnosed as SSc and then MPA with PRS, of which 4 cases improved after treatment and 3 cases died. Among the dead patients, 1 case was treated with penicillamine for 3 years, and the remaining 2 cases were only treated with steroids without immunosuppressants.In SSc, P-ANCA is closely related to vasculitis, and the prognosis of PRS secondary to P-ANCA may be very poor. Most of the diagnosis of MPA is only after patients have kidney or lung diseases.There is a certain correlation between them in pathogenesis. Glucocorticoids, immunosuppressants, biological agents, hemodialysis and plasma exchange are the main treatments.

Conclusion

Although the cases of SSc combined with MPA and PRS are rare, there are still many cases reported,which reminds us: ①When SSc patients have new symptoms such as renal insufficiency or lungs, they should be alert to new entities that may be combined with other autoimmune diseases to avoid missed diagnosis or misdiagnosis.②ANCA should be detected in SSc patients at baseline, which may be related to disease activity.③PRS has rapid progress and high mortality, whcih is an emergency that needs urgent treatment. Such patients should be treated with glucocorticoid, immunosuppression and plasma exchange immediately. However, if patients are complicated with SSc, they need to be extra careful when using high-dose steroids, which increases the risk of renal crisis.

References

[1]de Groot K, Schnabel A. Das pulmorenale Syndrom [Pulmonary-renal syndrome]. Internist (Berl). 2005;46(7):769-782. doi:10.1007/s00108-005-1423-8.

Figure 1.

The contrast of chest CT before and after treatment showed that the exudative lesions of both lungs were significantly absorbed

Figure 2.

Clinical data of systemic sclerosis combined with microscopic polyangitis and pulmonary renal syndrome

Acknowledgements

Institute of Research Center of Gout and Hyperuricemia of the Affiliated Hospital, North Sichuan Medical College

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

AB0112 DECOY RECEPTOR 3 AND ITS SIGNAL PATHWAY CONTRIBUTE TO PATHOGENESIS IN ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS

Background

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic progressive disease with invasion of spine and sacroiliac joint as the main clinical manifestation, which can be combined with systemic inflammation or abnormalities in multiple parts at the same time. There are complex changes of immune function in patients with AS, and its immune and genetic pathogenesis is still unclear. Decoy receptor 3 (DcR3), as a new immune molecule discovered in recent years, plays an important role in regulating T cell activation, proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis.Studies have confirmed that DcR3 is involved in the immune disorder process of rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, AS and other autoimmune diseases, so that the role of DcR3 in AS has attracted attention. However, the expression of DcR3 related pathway genes[1-3].However, studies evaluating the DcR3 related pathway genes in AS are scarce.

Objectives

To assess the contribution of DcR3 and its signal pathway to AS and the clinical importance of these genes in AS.

Methods

The mRNA expression levels of DCR3 and its signal pathway(DR3、TL1A、Fas、FasL、Ligth、LigthR、LTgthRNA expresured in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from 50 AS patients and 50 healthy subjects. The relationship between DCR3 related molecular pathway expression levels and laboratory features was analyzed in AS patients.

Results

The expression levels of DCR3、DR3、Fas、Light were much lower in the AS group than in the HC groups (p<0.05)(a,b,c,d), and the expression levels of LT The relationship between DCR3 related molecular pathway expression l

Conclusion

Compared with HC group, DCR3 and its signal pathway in PBMCs of AS patients are differentially expressed. It is speculated that DcR3 related molecular pathway gene may be involved in the pathogenesis of AS.

Figure 1.

Relative Expression of DcR3 related molecular pathway gene in the PBMCs of Patients. The mRNA levels in PBMCs from AS patients(n=50) and HCs(n=50) were measured by RT-qPCR. The expression levels of DCR3ˎDR3ˎFasˎLight were much lower in the AS group than in the HC groups (p<0.05)(a,b,c,d), and the expression levels of LTβR was much higher in the AS group than in the HC groups (p<0.05)(e).

References

[1]Lee CS, Hu CY, Tsai HF, et al. Elevated serum decoy receptor 3 with enhanced T cell activation in systemic lupus erythematosus. Clin Exp Immunol. 2008;151(3):383-390. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2249.2007.03579.x

[2]Hayashi S, Miura Y, Tateishi K, Takahashi M, Kurosaka M. Decoy receptor 3 is highly expressed in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Mod Rheumatol. 2010;20(1):63-68. doi:10.1007/s10165-009-0240-7.

[3]Chen MH, Chen WS, Tsai CY, Liao HT, Chen CH, Chou CT. Overexpression of decoy receptor 3 in synovial tissues of inflammatory arthritis. Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2012;30(2):171-177.

Acknowledgements

Institute of Research Center of Gout and Hyperuricemia of the Affiliated Hospital, North Sichuan Medical College

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

Efficient Interfacial Charge Transfer Based on 2D/2D Heterojunctions of Fe-C3N4/Ti3C2 for Improving the Photocatalytic Degradation of Antibiotics

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) has shown to be a promising photocatalyst that, however, suffers from strong charge recombination and poor conductivity, while MXenes have shown to be perfect cocatalysts for the photocatalytic process but show poor stability. In this study, we successfully constructed 2D/2D heterojunctions of Fe-C₃N₄/Ti₃C₂ for the photocatalytic degradation of antibiotics. In this study, multilayer Ti₃C₂ was obtained by etching Ti₃AlC₂, and then Fe-C₃N₄/Ti₃C₂ photocatalyst was prepared by the one-pot microwave method and high-temperature calcination method. The synthesized samples were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, XPS, TGA, BET, DRS, PL, and other means. The photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride by Fe-C₃N₄/Ti₃C₂ was in accordance with the first-order reaction kinetics model, and the apparent rate constant k was 2.83, 2.06, and 1.77 times that of g-C₃N₄, Fe-C₃N₄, and g-C₃N₄/Ti₃C₂, respectively. Through the mechanism study, it was shown that the most active species in the reaction system was • O₂⁻, while h⁺ and •OH had a relatively lower effect on the degradation system.

A37 EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF RISANKIZUMAB AS MAINTENANCE THERAPY IN PATIENTS WITH CROHN’S DISEASE: 52 WEEK RESULTS FROM THE PHASE 3 FORTIFY STUDY

Background

Risankizumab (RZB), an anti-IL-23 p19 inhibitor, was well-tolerated and superior to placebo (PBO) in inducing clinical remission and endoscopic response in patients (pts) with moderate-to-severe Crohn’s disease (CD) in two phase 3 studies at 12 weeks.

Aims

FORTIFY (NCT03105102), was a 52-week (wk) phase 3 double-blind, re-randomized responder withdrawal study that evaluated the efficacy and safety of continuing RZB as subcutaneous (SC) maintenance therapy versus withdrawal to placebo in pts achieving induction response to RZB

Methods

Week 12 IV RZB responders were re-randomized 1:1:1 to: RZB SC 360mg (N=141), RZB 180mg (N=157), or PBO (withdrawal from IV RZB; N=164) every 8wks for 52wks. Co-primary endpoints were clinical remission (per CD Activity Index [CDAI] (US); or stool frequency/abdominal pain score [SF/APS] (OUS) and endoscopic response at wk52. Other clinical and endoscopic endpoints, inflammatory biomarkers, RZB serum levels, and safety were assessed over time.

Results

Rates of clinical remission (CDAI, SF/APS) and clinical response were similar for RZB and PBO groups through wk24, with rates lower for PBO thereafter. At wk52, clinical remission (CDAI, SF/APS) and endoscopic response rates were significantly higher with RZB 360mg than PBO ( P<0.01); RZB 180mg was superior to PBO for clinical remission per CDAI and endoscopic response ( P<0.01). Endoscopic remission and deep remission rates increased over time with 360mg, remained steady with 180mg, and decreased with PBO. Mean fecal calprotectin (FCP) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels decreased with SC RZB, but increased with PBO, over 52wks. Exposure-adjusted event rates (per 100 pts-years) of serious adverse event (AE) were generally similar among groups (360mg, 21.0 E/100PY and 180mg, 19.5 E/100PY vs PBO, 19.3 E/100PY), as were AEs leading to drug discontinuation (4.8 E/100PY and 2.4 E/100PY vs 3.7 E/100PY), and serious infections (6.0 E/100PY and 3.0 E/100PY vs 5.0 E/100PY).

Conclusions

In pts with moderate-to-severe CD, a robust pharmacodynamic effect on the IL-23 pathway after 12wks RZB IV induction was maintained with RZB SC maintenance therapy. The durability of RZB was demonstrated with high rates of efficacy over the 52-wk study. RZB was superior to PBO for achieving clinical remission and endoscopic response at wk52. Results for the more stringent endpoints (endoscopic remission\deep remission) and persistent improvements in inflammatory biomarkers are consistent with a dose response relationship. Continued RZB SC maintenance treatment was generally safe and well-tolerated.

Funding Agencies

AbbVie

Heavy metal pollution in coastal wetlands: A systematic review of studies globally over the past three decades

Coastal wetlands are ecosystems lying between land and ocean and are subject to inputs of heavy metals (HMs) from terrestrial, oceanic and atmospheric sources. Although the study on HM pollution in coastal wetlands has been rapidly developing over the past three decades, systematic reviews are still unavailable. Here, by analyzing 3343 articles published between 1990 and 2019, we provided the first holistic systematic review of studies on HM pollution in coastal wetlands globally. The results showed a trend of rapid increases in publications in this field globally, especially over the past ten years. Trends varied greatly among coastal countries, and global trends were primarily driven by the US before 2000, and in China after 2010. We also found that mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), and copper (Cu) were the most widely studied HM elements globally, but patterns differed geographically, with Hg being most widely examined in the Americas, Cd in China and India, and lead (Pb) in the western Europe and Australia, respectively. Among different types of coastal wetlands, salt marshes, mangrove forests, and estuaries were the most widely studied, in contrast to seagrass beds and tidal flats. As for ecosystem components, soils/sediments and plants were most extensively investigated, while algae, microbes, and animals were much less examined. Our analysis further revealed rapid emergence of topics on anthropogenic sources, interactions with other anthropogenic environmental changes (climate change in particular), and control and remediation methodology in the literature in the recent ten years. Moving forward, we highlight that future studies are needed to i) better understand the impacts of HM pollution in less studied coastal wetland systems and species, ii) deepen current understanding of the biogeochemical behaviors of HMs under anthropogenic activities, iii) examine interactions with other anthropogenic environmental changes, iv) conceive ecological remediation (i.e., "ecoremediation" as compared to traditional physiochemical remediation and bioremediation) strategies, and v) develop advanced analysis instruments and methods. The perspectives we brought forward can help stimulate many new advances in this field.

Biology of cyclooxygenase-2: An application in depression therapeutics

Depressive Disorder is a common mood disorder or affective disorder that is dominated by depressed mood. It is characterized by a high incidence and recurrence. The onset of depression is related to genetic, biological and psychosocial factors. However, the pathogenesis is still unclear. In recent years, there has been an increasing amount of research on the inflammatory hypothesis of depression, in which cyclo-oxygen-ase 2 (COX-2), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, is closely associated with depression. A variety of chemical drugs and natural products have been found to exert therapeutic effects by modulating COX-2 levels. This paper summarizes the relationship between COX-2 and depression in terms of neuroinflammation, intestinal flora, neurotransmitters, HPA axis, mitochondrial dysfunction and hippocampal neuronal damage, which can provide a reference for further preventive control, clinical treatment and scientific research on depression.

Effects of the Addition of Nb and V on the Microstructural Evolution and Hydrogen Embrittlement Resistance of High Strength Martensitic Steels

Hydrogen embrittlement can easily occur in high strength martensitic steel, manifesting itself as a sudden failure or fracture without warning and greatly threatening the safety of automotive applications. Optimizing the composition of the alloy can be performed by matching heat treatment processing methods and controlling the precipitation amounts to form hydrogen traps. In doing so, the hydrogen embrittlement susceptibility of steel can be effectively delayed, reducing the risk of hydrogen-induced delayed cracking. In this study, four kinds of 1500 MPa strength grade martensitic steel were selected for testing and supplemented with different loadings of Nb and V, respectively. Their grains, phases, and precipitations were compared by optical microscopy (OM), electron backscattered diffraction (ESBD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses. After the addition of Nb and V, the microstructure was refined, the residual austenite content increased, and the hydrogen embrittlement resistance was significantly improved.

[Distribution and metabolism of toxicants in rats with phenol burn]

Objective: To study the distribution and metabolism of toxicants in rats after phenol burn. Methods: In February 2019, SPF-grade healthy SD male rats were transdermally exposed to 6 mg/kg phenol to create a 5% body surface burn model of rats. High performance liquid chromatography was used to determine phenol content in rat plasma and kidney tissues after 0.25, 0.75, 2, 4, 8, 16, and 32 h, respectively. The kinetic parameters of phenol were calculated by DAS 2.0 software, and the kidney targeting of phenol was evaluated. Results: The area under the blood concentration-time curve at 0-8 h (AUC(0-8)) of the rat after phenol burn was (28.741±6.485) μg/ml·h, and the area under the blood concentration-time curve from 0 to infinite time (AUC(0-∞)) was (30.354±6.424) μg/ml·h, half-life (t(1/2)) was (2.111±0.632) h, peak concentration (C(max)) was (16.287±4.870) μg/ml, mean residence time (MRT) was (1.854±0.148) h. The target efficiency (DTE) of rat kidney was 2.91. Conclusion: Phenol burn rats have fast percutaneous absorption, rapid elimination of phenol, and have high clearance rate, short MRT, and weak substance accumulation. Phenol has relatively obvious selectivity to the kidneys.

Incapability of biochar to mitigate biogas slurry induced N2O emissions: Field investigations after 7 years of biochar application in a poplar plantation

Nitrous oxide (N₂O) is a potent atmospheric greenhouse gas that is largely emitted from soils due to the enhanced use of reactive nitrogen in agriculture and plantations. In this study, we evaluated the N₂O mitigation ability of biochar after 7 years of application in a poplar plantation. The field experiment was based on combinations of three biochar (0, 80, and 120 t ha^-1) and four biogas slurry (0, 125, 250, and 375 m³ ha^-1) rates following a factorial design. N₂O flux rates were measured for seven consecutive months using in situ static chambers. Soil physicochemical characteristics, potential nitrification rate (PNR), denitrification (DEA), and N₂O reduction were recorded once each in September 2019 and January 2020 via lab incubations. In addition, qPCR assays were used to assess the abundance of key nitrifying and denitrifying functional genes. Biochar application after 7 years had no significant effects on N₂O flux rates, PNR, and DEA rates. However, a triggering effect of biogas slurry on soil N₂O emission was observed, although there was no correlation between biogas slurry rates and N₂O emission rates. Factorial ANOVA showed a significant effect of biogas slurry and its interaction with biochar on the relative abundance of bacterial denitrifying and nitrifying functional genes. Additionally, significant correlations of N₂O emission rates with PNR rates and NO₃^- concentration indicated that nitrification was the dominant pathway of N₂O emission. Thus, a single biochar application did not mitigate N₂O emission rates induced by biogas slurry on a long-term scale.

Synthesis and preliminary biological evaluation of naproxen-probenecid conjugate for central nervous system (CNS) delivery

Naproxen, known as the most potent non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, is vitally crucial in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. However, due to the poor brain penetration ability, it causes serious adverse effects with the therapeutic doses. Predictably, these unfavorable factors have hindered its further application. In this study, a novel brain-targeting conjugate, Nap-Pro, was designed and synthesized. The chemical stability and metabolic stability of this conjugate were determined in phosphate buffer, blood serum and brain homogenate, respectively. The cytotoxicity of Nap-Pro was evaluated in b End. 3 cells. In addition, the brain targeting capacity of Nap-Pro was also investigated in vivo. Importantly, Nap-Pro showed excellent capacity to cross the brain-blood barrier (BBB), suggesting probenecid was a super carrier that enhanced the delivery of drugs into brain. Collectively, the probenecid modification was a promising strategy to develop the novel drug delivery systems for brain targeting.

AB0197 EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF HLX01 COMBINED WITH METHOTREXATE IN CHINESE PATIENTS WITH MODERATELY TO SEVERELY ACTIVE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS WHO HAD INADEQUATE RESPONSES TO METHOTREXATE: RESULTS OF A RANDOMISED, DOUBLE-BLIND, PLACEBO-CONTROLLED PHASE 3 STUDY

Background:

Rituximab is an effective therapy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with inadequate responses to methotrexate (MTX)1, 2. However, it has not been registered or approved in China for the treatment of RA by far. HLX01, an approved rituximab biosimilar (demonstrated in Chinese patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma)3, is thus evaluated in this study for the benefits of Chinese RA patients.

Objectives:

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of HLX01 plus MTX versus placebo plus MTX in Chinese patients with active RA who had inadequate responses to MTX.

Methods:

This was a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3 study conducted in China (NCT03522415). Eligible patients were randomised 2:1 to receive intravenous infusion of 2×1000 mg HLX01 or placebo on day 1 and day 15. Patients with inadequate responses at week 16 and 20 were allowed to receive rescue treatments. Patients were retreated with or switched to receive (if initially assigned to placebo) 2×1000 mg rituximab at the first day of week 24 and 26. The primary endpoint of this study was the American College of Rheumatology criteria (ACR) 20 response at week 24. Secondary efficacy endpoints were evaluated at week 12, 24, 36 and 48. The safety, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and immunogenicity of HLX01 were observed and analyzed throughout the study.

Results:

Between May 28, 2018 and Sep 11, 2020, a total of 275 patients (ITT set) were randomised and 263 patients without major protocol deviations were included in per-protocol set (PPS). At week 24, HLX01 showed statistically superior efficacy (p <0.001) to placebo (ACR20: 60.7% vs 35.9% in ITT set, 60.3% vs 37.1% in PPS). Secondary efficacy endpoints were also significantly improved in HLX01 group compared with placebo (Table 1). The overall incidence of serious treatment emergent adverse events (TEAEs), adverse drug reactions (ADRs), and TEAEs leading to drug discontinuation were similar among treatment groups, with the most common TEAE been upper respiratory tract infection before (18.1% vs 18.5%) or after (13.0% vs 12.3%) week 24. Serum concentrations, immunogenicity and pharmacodynamics were similar between HLX01 and placebo groups.

Table 1.

Results of secondary efficacy endpoints at week 12, 24, 36 and 48 in ITT set.

DurationSecondary efficacy endpointsACR20 (%)ACR50 (%)ACR70 (%)DAS28-CRP(mean)HAQ-DI(mean)HLX01PlaceboHLX01PlaceboHLX01PlaceboHLX01PlaceboHLX01PlaceboBaseline5.495.431.401.45Week 1248.132.621.910.94.45.43.894.471.021.22Week 2460.735.936.618.515.312.03.394.370.871.22Week 3660.148.946.431.532.217.42.883.510.710.97Week 4873.862.055.240.239.927.22.823.510.721.03

Conclusion:

Comparing with placebo plus MTX, HLX01 plus MTX showed significantly improved clinical outcomes and comparable safety profiles in Chinese patients with moderately to severely active RA who had inadequate responses to MTX, demonstrating HLX01 in combination with MTX as a well-tolerated, safe and efficient treatment option.

References:

[1]Emery P, Deodhar A, Rigby WF, et al. Efficacy and safety of different doses and retreatment of rituximab: a randomised, placebo-controlled trial in patients who are biological naive with active rheumatoid arthritis and an inadequate response to methotrexate (Study Evaluating Rituximab’s Efficacy in MTX iNadequate rEsponders (SERENE)). Ann Rheum Dis. Sep 2010;69(9):1629-35. doi:10.1136/ard.2009.119933.

[2]Rubbert-Roth A, Tak PP, Zerbini C, et al. Efficacy and safety of various repeat treatment dosing regimens of rituximab in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis: results of a Phase III randomized study (MIRROR). Rheumatology (Oxford). Sep 2010;49(9):1683-93. doi:10.1093/rheumatology/keq116.

[3]Shi Y, Song Y, Qin Y, et al. A phase 3 study of rituximab biosimilar HLX01 in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. J Hematol Oncol. Apr 16 2020;13(1):38. doi:10.1186/s13045-020-00871-9.

Acknowledgements:

The authors would like to thank participants in this study and their families. They would also like to acknowledge other investigators and staff at all clinical sites and the members of the Independent Data Monitoring Committee.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

High pressure homogenization inactivation of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus in phosphate buffered saline, milk and apple juice

High pressure homogenization (HPH) offers new opportunities for food pasteurization/sterilization. Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus suspended in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) buffer, milk and apple juice at initial concentration of ~10⁶ log₁₀ CFU per ml were subjected to HPH treatments up to 200 MPa with inlet temperatures at 4-40°C. After HPH at 200 MPa with the inlet temperature at 40°C, the count of E. coli suspended in PBS, milk and apple juice reduced by 3·42, 3·67 and 3·19 log₁₀ CFU per ml respectively while the count of S. aureus decreased by 2·21, 1·02 and 2·33 log₁₀ CFU per ml respectively suggesting that S. aureus was more resistant. The inactivation data were well fitted by the polynomial equation. Milk could provide a protective effect for S. aureus against HPH. After HPH at 200 MPa with the inlet temperature at 20°C, the cell structure of E. coli was destroyed, while no obvious damages were found for S. aureus.

A high-density genetic map construction and sex-related loci identification in Chinese Giant salamander

BACKGROUND

The Chinese giant salamander Andrias davidianus is an important amphibian species in China because of its increasing economic value, protection status and special evolutionary position from aquatic to terrestrial animal. Its large genome presents challenges to genetic research. Genetic linkage mapping is an important tool for genome assembly and determination of phenotype-related loci.

RESULTS

In this study, we constructed a high-density genetic linkage map using ddRAD sequencing technology to obtain SNP genotyping data of members from an full-sib family which sex had been determined. A total of 10,896 markers were grouped and oriented into 30 linkage groups, representing 30 chromosomes of A. davidianus. The genetic length of LGs ranged from 17.61 cM (LG30) to 280.81 cM (LG1), with a mean inter-locus distance ranging from 0.11(LG3) to 0.48 cM (LG26). The total genetic map length was 2643.10 cM with an average inter-locus distance of 0.24 cM. Three sex-related loci and four sex-related markers were found on LG6 and LG23, respectively.

CONCLUSION

We constructed the first High-density genetic linkage map and identified three sex-related loci in the Chinese giant salamander. Current results are expected to be a useful tool for future genomic studies aiming at the marker-assisted breeding of the species.

Duration and frequency of drainage and flooding events interactively affect soil biogeochemistry and N flux in subtropical peat soils

With the demand for restoration and future prediction of climate change effects, subtropical peatlands are expected to be subjected to hydrologic regimes with variable duration and frequency of drained and flooded conditions, but knowledge of their interactive effects on soil biogeochemistry and emission of greenhouse gases including nitrous oxide (N₂O) is largely limited. The objective of this study was to investigate how the duration and frequency of drainage and flooding events interactively influence soil biogeochemical properties and denitrification and related net N₂O production rates following rewetting. Surface soils are susceptible to different hydrologic regimes. Significantly higher pH, extractable organic carbon (ext. OC), ammonium (NH₄⁺-N), denitrification enzyme activity (DEA), but lower nitrate (NO₃^--N), microbial biomass C and N were observed when the peat soils were under flooded conditions compared to drained conditions. Two-week and four-week drainage or flooding duration did not result in statistically significant differences in soil biogeochemical properties. A 24-week prolonged drainage led to an accumulation of NO₃^--N and a significantly lower pH. Soil microbial biomass and fungal:bacterial abundance likely increased with the frequency of drainage-flooding cycles. Significant differences in denitrification and net N₂O production rates following reflooding were mainly found in the surface soils. Structural equation modeling indicated that hydroperiod and water-filled pore space (WFPS) prior to reflooding is likely to control denitrification and net N₂O production through its regulation of NO₃^--N and activity of microorganisms involved in denitrification while higher drainage-flooding frequency decreases the availability of organic C and NO₃^--N for denitrification. Our results also suggest high NO₃^--N and low pH within peat soils caused by prolonged drainage likely leads to a significant N₂O emission pulse following reflooding. For peat soils subjected to frequent drainage-flooding cycles, N₂O emission pulses following reflooding would decrease with time, attributing to the loss of substrates for denitrification.