Microstructural study of the lunate in stage III Kienböck's disease with micro-computed tomography imaging

Seventeen fresh lunates with stage III Kienböck's disease were scanned with micro-computed tomography. Four regions of interest were selected to measure trabecular parameters, which were compared with those from normal lunates. Within the three regions in the distal surface, there was more compact trabecular bone in the middle region when compared with the palmar and dorsal regions. In the central part, the trabeculae of the Kienböck's lunates were much thicker than those in normal lunates. The diameters of the palmar nutrient foramina of the Kienböck's lunates were significantly smaller than those in normal lunates. In affected lunates, the bony disruptions were mostly located in the palmar or dorsal areas, which were shown from trabecular bone structure analysis to be structurally weaker. This leads to separation of the distal part of the fractured bone, disruption of the blood supply, poor bone remodelling and proneness to secondary fracture and eventual collapse.

Reduction Levels and the Effects of High-Molecular-Weight Adiponectin via AMPK/eNOS in Chinese Type 2 Diabetes

Aim: This study was to investigate the change of high-molecula-weight (HMW) adiponectin (APN) isoform, the association between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and HMW APN isoform, the variation of Disulfide-bond A oxidoreductase-like protein (DsbA-L), the effect of HMW APN isoform on AMP-dependent protein kinase (AMPK) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in Chinese T2DM. Method: 169 patients aged at (48.7±9.4) years and 107 healthy control subjects aged at (42.6±7.8) years took part in this study. Anthropometric measures of the characters were assayed and different APN isoforms, DsbA-L, AMPK and eNOS levels were determined. Results: Ln(sRAGE) and Ln(Adiponectin) were significantly lower and significantly higher for the other characteristics in T2DM. Ln(Adiponectin) was negatively and significantly correlated with WHR, Ln(triglycerides), fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c (%) in control subjects and T2DM patients. Plasma and adipose tissue total APN and HMW APN were significantly reduced in newly diagnosed T2DM patients. DsbA-L was markedly down-regulated in diabetic adipose tissue. HMW APN caused significant decreases in AMPK and eNOS phosphorylation levels of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that total APN levels was closely related to the risk of T2DM and HMW APN reduction was involved in the diabetic vascular AMPK/eNOS signal pathway. The findings will provide insight into novel therapeutic approaches for reducing the elevated cardiovascular risk associated with T2DM.

Dynamic cerebral reorganization in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia: a MRI-derived cortical thickness study

BACKGROUND

A structural neuroanatomical change indicating a reduction in brain tissue is a notable feature of schizophrenia. Several pathophysiological processes such as aberrant cortical maturation, progressive tissue loss and compensatory tissue increase could contribute to the structural changes seen in schizophrenia.

METHOD

We studied cortical thickness using surface-based morphometry in 98 clinically stable patients with schizophrenia and 83 controls. Using a pattern classification approach, we studied whether the features that discriminate patients from controls vary across the different stages of the illness. Using a covariance analysis, we also investigated if concurrent increases accompany decreases in cortical thickness.

RESULTS

Very high levels of accuracy (96.3%), specificity (98.8%) and sensitivity (88%) were noted when classifying patients with <2 years of illness from controls. Within the patient group, reduced thickness was consistently accompanied by increased thickness in distributed brain regions. A pattern of cortical amelioration or normalization (i.e. reduced deviation from controls) was noted with increasing illness duration. While temporo-limbic and fronto-parietal regions showed reduced thickness, the occipital cortex showed increased thickness, especially in those with a long-standing illness.

CONCLUSION

A compensatory remodelling process might contribute to the cortical thickness variations in different stages of schizophrenia. Subtle cerebral reorganization reflecting the inherent plasticity of brain may occur concomitantly with processes contributing to tissue reduction in adult patients with schizophrenia.

Peginterferon add-on results in more HBsAg decline compared to monotherapy in HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B patients

It is unknown whether peginterferon (PEG-IFN) add-on to entecavir (ETV) leads to more HBsAg decline compared to PEG-IFN monotherapy or combination therapy, and whether ETV therapy may prevent HBsAg increase after PEG-IFN cessation. We performed a post hoc analysis of 396 HBeAg-positive patients treated for 72 weeks with ETV + 24 weeks PEG-IFN add-on from week 24 to 48 (add-on, n = 85), 72 weeks with ETV monotherapy (n = 90), 52 weeks with PEG-IFN monotherapy (n = 111) and 52 weeks PEG-IFN + lamivudine (combination, n = 110) within 2 randomized trials. HBsAg decline was assessed at the end of PEG-IFN (EOP) and 6 months after PEG-IFN (EOF) discontinuation. Differences in baseline characteristics were accounted for using inversed probability of treatment weights. At EOP, a HBsAg reduction of ≥1log10 IU/mL was more frequently achieved for patients in the add-on or combination therapy arms (both 36%), compared to PEG-IFN mono (20%) or ETV (8%) (add-on vs PEG-IFN mono P = 0.050). At EOF, the HBsAg reduction ≥1log10 IU/mL was only sustained in patients treated with ETV consolidation (add-on vs combination and PEG-IFN mono: 40% vs 23% and 18%, P = 0.029 and P = 0.003, respectively). For add-on, combination, PEG-IFN mono and ETV, the mean HBsAg-level change at EOF was -0.84, -0.81, -0.68 and -0.33 log10 IU/mL, respectively (P > 0.05 for PEG-IFN arms). HBeAg loss at EOF was 36%, 31%, 33% and 20%, respectively (P > 0.05). PEG-IFN add-on for 24 weeks results in more on-treatment HBsAg decline than does 52 weeks of PEG-IFN monotherapy. ETV therapy may maintain the HBsAg reduction achieved with PEG-IFN.

Different characteristics between mycobacteriophage Chy1 and D29, which were classified as cluster A2 mycobacteriophages

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to isolate a novel mycobacteriophage and then explore its anti-tuberculosis (TB) potential.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Phage was isolated from enriched soil sample. A total of 36 mycobacterial strains obtained from clinical specimens were subjected to investigate the host range of phage by the spot lysis assay. Biological characteristics were investigated through growth curve, host range and phage antimicrobial activity in vitro. Then, genome sequencing and further analysis were accomplished by using an ABI3730XL DNA sequencer and comparative genome, respectively.

RESULTS

A lytic mycobacteriophage (Chy1) was isolated and the plaque morphology was similar to D29. The genome of Chy1 was estimated to be about 47,198 base pair (bp) and strong similarity (97.4% identity) to D29, especially, the Chy1 gene 7 encoding holin which is considered as a clock controlling growth cycle of the corresponding phage, was identical (100% identity) to phage D29 gene 11, thus classifying Chy1 as a member of the cluster A2 family. However, to our surprise, Chy1 can infect a narrower range of host-mycobacterial strains than that of D29. The latent period of Chy1 was quite longer compared to D29. Moreover, Chy1 has a weaker ability to lyse Mycobacterium smegmatis compared to D29.

CONCLUSIONS

The sequence of Chy1 showed 97.4% homology with the genome sequence of D29, but there was a large difference in their biological characteristics. Overall, the results of this investigation indicate that Chy1 is not an ideal candidate for developing mycobacteriophage-based anti-TB therapies but for future researches to investigate the reason why biological characteristics of Chy1 and D29 were remarkably different.

Hepatitis B core-related antigen levels are associated with response to entecavir and peginterferon add-on therapy in hepatitis B e antigen-positive chronic hepatitis B patients

Hepatitis B core-related antigen (HBcrAg), a new serum marker, may be useful in monitoring chronic hepatitis B infection. HBcrAg was measured in 175 hepatitis B e antigen-positive patients treated with entecavir (ETV) with or without peginterferon (PEG-IFN) add-on therapy. Decline in HBcrAg was stronger in patients with vs. without combined response (ETV: -3.22 vs. -1.71 log U/mL, p <0.001; PEG-IFN add-on: -3.16 vs. -1.83 IU/mL, p <0.001) and in patients with vs. without hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) response (ETV: -2.60 vs. -1.74 log U/mL, p <0.001; PEG-IFN add-on: -2.38 vs. -2.15 log U/mL, p = 0.31). HBcrAg was associated with combined response (adjusted odds ratio 0.3, 95% confidence interval 0.2-0.5, p <0.001), but was not superior to quantitative HBsAg (qHBsAg).

Abstract P1-14-06: A phase II randomized study with eribulin/cyclophosphamide (ErC) and docetaxel/cyclophosphamide (TC) as neoadjuvant therapy in HER2-negative breast cancer- Final analysis of primary endpoint and correlative analysis results

Background: Eribulin mesylate (Er) is a non-taxane inhibitor of microtubule growth that results in G2-M cell cycle arrest, disruption of normal mitotic spindles and apoptosis. Er demonstrated an overall survival (OS) but not progression free survival (PFS) advantage in anthracycline and taxane refractory breast cancer pts. This OS rather than PFS benefit has been attributed to Er's potential to suppress new metastases through its effects on the epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) pathway, even in the absence of an effect on the primary tumor or established metastases. In this study ErC was compared to TC, a standard regimen for (neo) adjuvant treatment. A companion exploratory analysis examined the EMT markers E-cadherin and vimentin, as well as the endothelial marker CD-31 assessing tumor vasculature. Final assessments of the primary endpoint of pathological complete response (pCR) and results of the correlative studies will be presented.

Methods: Women with histologically confirmed invasive HER2-negative (IHC 0-1+ or FISH/SISH negative), cT1-3, cN0-2, M0 (pN3a disease allowed) adenocarcinoma of the breast were eligible. Following a 10 pt lead-in to confirm the safety/feasibility of ErC, pts were randomized 2:1. Arm 1, Er 1.4 mg/m2 IV (Days 1 & 8) and C 600 mg/m2 IV (Day 1); Arm 2, T 75 mg/m2 IV and C 600 mg/m2 IV on Day 1, both regimens administered q 21 days x 6 cycles followed by surgery. Tumor samples were collected at baseline and from residual breast cancer at the time of surgery. Samples were assayed for E-cadherin, vimentin, and CD-31 expression by immunohistochemistry.

Results: Enrollment was completed 4/2014 (76 pts); 10 pts in lead-in phase, 66 pts were randomized (Arm 1, 44; Arm 2, 22). In the randomized population, 77% had invasive ductal adenocarcinoma; median tumor size 3.1 cm (range, 0.4-10cm; 29.5% were T3); axillary nodes clinically positive in 52%. 34% of pts were triple negative (TN). 59 pts (89%) underwent surgery after receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) on study. pCR rates were 9% and 18% on the TC and ErC arms respectively. 4/7 pts with pCR on the ErC arm were TN. tumor samples were analyzed from 69 pts (including lead-in pts) for expression of the EMT biomarkers. Of these, 40 pts had paired pre- and post-treatment samples, and 29 pts had either a pre- or post-treatment sample (including 8 pre-treatment samples from pts who achieved pCR). In pre-treatment tumor specimens (61 samples), E-cadherin levels were modest-high in 80%, vimentin expression was seen in 39%, and CD-31 expression observed in 21% of the samples. Analysis of pre- and post-treatment paired specimens and differential effects according to treatment regimen will be presented.

Conclusion: The observed pCR rate of 18% with ErC in this HER2- pt population was comparable with other NAC regimens. Correlative evaluation of EMT markers and tumor vascular density with response is ongoing and will be presented.

Citation Format: Yardley DA, Chandra P, Hart L, Wright GS, Ward P, Mani A, Shastry M, Finney L, Guo S, DeBusk LM, Hainsworth JD, Burris III HA. A phase II randomized study with eribulin/cyclophosphamide (ErC) and docetaxel/cyclophosphamide (TC) as neoadjuvant therapy in HER2-negative breast cancer- Final analysis of primary endpoint and correlative analysis results. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P1-14-06.

Origin of ultralow Young׳s modulus in a metastable β-type Ti-33Nb-4Sn alloy

Although there is difficulty in growing a Ti-33Nb-4Sn single crystal due to its ultralow β-phase stability, the single-crystal elastic constants of metastable β-type Ti-33Nb-4Sn (wt%) alloy were extracted successfully from its polycrystal by in-situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction technique, to clarify the origin of the ultralow Young's modulus in its polycrystal. It is indicated that compared to binary TiCr, TiV and TiNb alloys, the Ti-33Nb-4Sn alloy possesses slightly lower β-phase stability with respect to {110}<110>(-)shear (i.e., C׳) but much lower β-phase stability regarding to {001}〈100〉 shear (i.e., C44). An analysis by the Hill approximation suggests that the ultralow isotropic polycrystalline Young׳s modulus (EH) of Ti-33Nb-4Sn alloy originates from the extremely low shear modulus C44 as well as the relatively low C׳. This indicates that in addition to C׳, C44 has a significant contribution to the Young's modulus of polycrystal, which challenges a conventional understanding that the Young's modulus of β-type Ti alloys is predominantly determined by C׳.

Laparoscopic colorectal resection versus open colorectal resection in octogenarians: a systematic review and meta-analysis of safety and efficacy

Octogenarians are more often viewed as high-risk surgical candidates. This increased risk is attributed to an age-related decline in physical function and reserve capacity coupled with the presence of various underlying diseases. There are no current guidelines or consensus on the optimal treatment strategy for this cohort of complex patients. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the efficacy and safety of laparoscopic colorectal resection versus open colorectal resection in octogenarians. The meta-analysis was conducted following all aspects of the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. A systematic literature review was carried out using the following databases: MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Google Scholar and OVID. Only studies comparing outcome of laparoscopic and open colorectal resections in the elderly population (≥80 years) were selected. The data collected included the patient demographics, interventions, observed outcome and sources of bias. When performing the statistical analysis, we used the odds ratio for categorical variables and the weighted mean difference for continuous variables. The results of this systematic review and pooled analysis demonstrated the safety and potential benefits of laparoscopic colorectal resection in octogenarians. LC can reduce the length of hospital stay, intraoperative blood loss, time to return of normal bowel function, and incidence of postoperative pneumonia, wound infection, and postoperative ileus.

An immune regulatory CCT repeat containing oligodeoxynucleotide capable of causing hair loss in male mice

An oligodeoxynucleotide with CCT repeats (CCT ODN) has been found in our previous study to selectively downregulate Toll-like receptor 7/9 (TLR7/9)-mediated immune responses both in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we unexpectedly found that CCT ODN induced severe patchy hair loss around the mouth in male F1 mice (female Balb/c × male C57BL/6) with lupus-like nephritis induced by injecting allogenic lymphocytes and also in male Balb/c mice, but not in female F1 mice and Balb/c mice and either gender of C57BL/6 mice. Increased infiltration of natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D⁺) cells in hair loss skin and upregulated interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) messenger RNA expression in cultured splenocytes were observed in male Balb/c mice. The CCT ODN-conditioned supernatants of cultured mouse splenocytes caused catagen-like changes to hair follicles (HFs). We hypothesized that the CCT ODN could induce patchy hair loss in the male mice with certain genetic traits by mobilizing NKG2D⁺ cells to HFs and by inducing the production of IFN-γ from immune cells. Taken together these data indicated that a gender and genetic preference of immune-regulatory oligonucleotides is causing unexpected clinical situations such as hair loss.

Corrosion of aluminium alloy 1100 in post-LOCA solutions of a nuclear reactor

The influence of pH and temperature on aluminium corrosion in post-LOCA solutions was investigated and the role of adsorbed boron was discussed.

Cost-effectiveness of lenalidomide plus dexamethasone vs. bortezomib plus melphalan and prednisone in transplant-ineligible U.S. patients with newly-diagnosed multiple myeloma

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a cost-effectiveness assessment of lenalidomide plus dexamethasone (Rd) vs bortezomib plus melphalan and prednisone (VMP) as initial treatment for transplant-ineligible patients with newly-diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM), from a U.S. payer perspective.

METHODS

A partitioned survival model was developed to estimate expected life-years (LYs), quality-adjusted LYs (QALYs), direct costs and incremental costs per QALY and LY gained associated with use of Rd vs VMP over a patient's lifetime. Information on the efficacy and safety of Rd and VMP was based on data from multinational phase III clinical trials and a network meta-analysis. Pre-progression direct costs included the costs of Rd and VMP, treatment of adverse events (including prophylaxis) and routine care and monitoring associated with MM. Post-progression direct costs included costs of subsequent treatment(s) and routine care and monitoring for progressive disease, all obtained from published literature and estimated from a U.S. payer perspective. Utilities were obtained from the aforementioned trials. Costs and outcomes were discounted at 3% annually.

RESULTS

Relative to VMP, use of Rd was expected to result in an additional 2.22 LYs and 1.47 QALYs (discounted). Patients initiated with Rd were expected to incur an additional $78,977 in mean lifetime direct costs (discounted) vs those initiated with VMP. The incremental costs per QALY and per LY gained with Rd vs VMP were $53,826 and $35,552, respectively. In sensitivity analyses, results were found to be most sensitive to differences in survival associated with Rd vs VMP, the cost of lenalidomide and the discount rate applied to effectiveness outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Rd was expected to result in greater LYs and QALYs compared with VMP, with similar overall costs per LY for each regimen. Results of this analysis indicated that Rd may be a cost-effective alternative to VMP as initial treatment for transplant-ineligible patients with MM, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio well within the levels for recent advancements in oncology.

High-resolution X-ray diffraction and micro-Raman scattering studies of Ge(:Ga) thin films grown on GaAs (001) substrates by MOCVD

Ga-doped Ge thin films grown on GaAs (001) substrates have been studied and compared with unintentionally doped Ge film by using HRXRD and Raman scattering in both surface and cross-section configurations.

Recurrent activating mutations of CD28 in peripheral T-cell lymphomas

Peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCLs) comprise a heterogeneous group of mature T-cell neoplasms with a poor prognosis. Recently, mutations in TET2 and other epigenetic modifiers as well as RHOA have been identified in these diseases, particularly in angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL). CD28 is the major co-stimulatory receptor in T cells which, upon binding ligand, induces sustained T-cell proliferation and cytokine production when combined with T-cell receptor stimulation. We have identified recurrent mutations in CD28 in PTCLs. Two residues-D124 and T195-were recurrently mutated in 11.3% of cases of AITL and in one case of PTCL, not otherwise specified (PTCL-NOS). Surface plasmon resonance analysis of mutations at these residues with predicted differential partner interactions showed increased affinity for ligand CD86 (residue D124) and increased affinity for intracellular adaptor proteins GRB2 and GADS/GRAP2 (residue T195). Molecular modeling studies on each of these mutations suggested how these mutants result in increased affinities. We found increased transcription of the CD28-responsive genes CD226 and TNFA in cells expressing the T195P mutant in response to CD3 and CD86 co-stimulation and increased downstream activation of NF-κB by both D124V and T195P mutants, suggesting a potential therapeutic target in CD28-mutated PTCLs.

A Mayan founder mutation is a common cause of deafness in Guatemala

Over 5% of the world's population has varying degrees of hearing loss. Mutations in GJB2 are the most common cause of autosomal recessive non-syndromic hearing loss (ARNHL) in many populations. The frequency and type of mutations are influenced by ethnicity. Guatemala is a multi-ethnic country with four major populations: Maya, Ladino, Xinca, and Garifuna. To determine the mutation profile of GJB2 in a ARNHL population from Guatemala, we sequenced both exons of GJB2 in 133 unrelated families. A total of six pathogenic variants were detected. The most frequent pathogenic variant is c.131G>A (p.Trp44*) detected in 21 of 266 alleles. We show that c.131G>A is associated with a conserved haplotype in Guatemala suggesting a single founder. The majority of Mayan population lives in the west region of the country from where all c.131G>A carriers originated. Further analysis of genome-wide variation of individuals carrying the c.131G>A mutation compared with those of Native American, European, and African populations shows a close match with the Mayan population.

Prevalence of migraine in persons with the 3243A>G mutation in mitochondrial DNA

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Over the last three decades mitochondrial dysfunction has been postulated to be a potential mechanism in migraine pathogenesis. The lifetime prevalence of migraine in persons carrying the 3243A>G mutation in mitochondrial DNA was investigated.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 57 mDNA 3243A>G mutation carriers between May 2012 and October 2014 were included. As a control group, a population-based cohort from our epidemiological studies on migraine in Danes was used. History of headache and migraine was obtained by telephone interview, based on a validated semi-structured questionnaire, performed by trained physicians.

RESULTS

The prevalence of migraine is significantly higher in persons carrying the 3243A>G mutation than in controls (58% vs. 18%; P < 0.001). This applies for both subforms of migraine, migraine without aura (47% vs. 12%; P < 0.001) and migraine with aura (18% vs. 6%; P < 0.001), and in females (58% vs. 24%; P < 0.001) and males (58% vs. 12%; P < 0.001) for any migraine.

CONCLUSIONS

A high prevalence of migraine in persons with the mDNA 3243A>G mutation was found. This finding suggests a clinical association between a monogenetically inherited disorder of mitochondrial dysfunction and susceptibility to migraine. Mitochondrial DNA aberrations may contribute to the pathogenesis of migraine.

Local cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 immunoglobulin inhibition of rejection response is dependent on indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase activities in the allograft

A previous study showed that local gene transfer of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 immunoglobulin (CTLA4Ig) significantly prolonged the survival time of rat flap allografts. However, the underlying mechanism is not fully understood. Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) is considered to be able to modulate the unresponsiveness state of allografts. In this study, we tested the expression of the CD80 molecule, IDO mRNA, and the level of the tryptophan metabolite kynurenine with or without the application of the IDO blocker 1-methyl-tryptophan (1-MT) in a rat composite tissue allotransplantation model. CD80 expression could be detected in the allograft. The ration of IDO mRNA/glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) mRNA and the level of kynurenine were both enhanced (46.3 ± 8.8 versus 4.6 ± 1.8 and 18.9 ± 1.3 μmol/L versus 2.1 ± 0.2 μmol/L separately) after adenovirus-mediated CTLA4Ig (AdCTLA4Ig) transduction. When 1-MT was applied to the AdCTLA4Ig perfusion recipients, the ration of IDO mRNA/GAPDH mRNA (5.2 ± 2.9) and the level of kynurenine (0.8 ± 0.5 μmol/L) were significantly reduced. Moreover, the allograft survival time was greatly reduced when 1-MT was applied to AdCTLA4Ig perfusion recipients compared to single AdCTLA4Ig perfusion therapy recipients (7.2 days versus 13.6 days). We showed that the inhibitory effect of locally delivered CTLA4Ig is dependent on IDO activities within the allograft.

Endoplasmic reticulum ribosome-binding protein 1, RRBP1, promotes progression of colorectal cancer and predicts an unfavourable prognosis

BACKGROUND

Ribosome-binding protein 1 (RRBP1) has been implicated in the regulation of unfolded protein response, which is involved in almost every aspect of cancer development. We aimed to explore the significance of RRBP1 in the progression and prognosis of colorectal cancer (CRC).

METHODS

The study population consisted of 856 patients with stage I-III CRC from two hospitals. RRBP1 expression was examined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in colorectal tissues. The correlation of RRBP1 expression and CRC occurrence was assessed in paired cancer-adjacent tissues. Factors contributing to prognosis were evaluated in a training-validation design with univariate and multivariate Cox analysis. Colorectal cancer aggressiveness caused by RRBP1 knockdown or overexpression was evaluated in CRC cells.

RESULTS

RRBP1 was aberrantly overexpressed in CRC. Compared with low-RRBP1 patients, high-RRBP1 patients had shorter disease-specific survival in the training (hazard ratio (HR), 2.423; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.531-3.835) and validation cohorts (HR, 3.749; 95% CI, 2.166-6.448) in multivariate Cox analysis. High-RRBP1 independently predicted a shorter disease-free survival (HR, 4.821; 95% CI, 3.220-7.218) in the validation cohort. RRBP1 knockdown reduced the aggressiveness of CRC cells in vitro and inhibited the growth of CRC xenografts in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

High RRBP1 expression facilitates CRC progression and predicts an unfavourable post-operative prognosis.

Impact of peginterferon beta-1a and disease factors on quality of life in multiple sclerosis

BACKGROUND

The Phase III ADVANCE study has shown clinical benefits for peginterferon beta-1a 125 µg dosed every 2 weeks versus placebo at 1 year in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS). This study assessed the impact of peginterferon beta-1a and disease factors on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) using data from ADVANCE.

METHODS

HRQoL was assessed at baseline and 12, 24, and 48 weeks using the 29-item Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29) and other generic HRQoL measures. Changes in scores from baseline within each group and differences in mean change from baseline between groups were evaluated. Post-hoc mixed-effects repeated measures analyses were performed to assess the impact of confirmed disability progression and relapses, and the interactions of treatment and these MS events on HRQoL. Predictors with p≥0.1 were excluded from the final models, unless they were clinically meaningful.

RESULTS

Relapses and confirmed disability progression were major drivers of HRQoL. When comparing week 48 to baseline, in placebo-treated patients (n=500), confirmed disability progression was associated with a 6.0-point worsening (p<0.0001) of MSIS-29 physical scores, relative to a 1.9-point worsening (p=0.044) with peginterferon beta-1a every 2 weeks (n=512). Such findings were observed consistently with other generic HRQoL measures. Additionally, having a recent relapse (≤29 days before the HRQoL assessment) was associated with a 10.0-point worsening (p<0.0001) of MSIS-29 psychological scores in placebo-treated patients, compared with a 3.5-point (p=0.031) worsening with peginterferon beta-1a every 2 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with peginterferon beta-1a could help to improve or maintain HRQoL in addition to clinical outcomes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00906399.

A functional single-nucleotide polymorphism in the ERCC1 gene alters the efficacy of narrowband ultraviolet B therapy in patients with active vitiligo in a Chinese population

BACKGROUND

T lymphocytes have been shown to cause the destruction of melanocytes in vitiligo pathogenesis. Narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB), as an effective therapeutic strategy in vitiligo, can lead to the formation of DNA photoproducts such as cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) in perilesional lymphocytes and thus induce skin immunosuppression. The repair of DNA photoproducts is performed mainly through the nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathway. We hypothesized that single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in NER genes might influence the repair capacity of CPDs and thus contribute to variations in phototherapy efficiency.

OBJECTIVES

To detect genetic polymorphisms in NER genes and their relationship with the efficacy of NB-UVB therapy in patients with active vitiligo.

METHODS

We investigated the association of NER SNPs (XPA A23G, XPC Ci11A, XPC C2919A and ERCC1 C118T) with phototherapy efficacy in 86 patients with vitiligo who received NB-UVB treatment. Furthermore, we examined the impact of ERCC1 C118T on the apoptosis of T lymphocytes and CPD accumulation after NB-UVB irradiation.

RESULTS

We found that patients with vitiligo with the ERCC1 codon 118 CC genotype showed better efficacy after NB-UVB irradiation than those with the ERCC1 118 TT and CT genotypes, whereas no such association was documented among the genotypes of XPA A23G, XPC Ci11A or XPC C2919A. Additionally, the apoptosis rates and CPD levels of lymphocytes after NB-UVB irradiation in patients with the ERCC1 118 CC genotype were significantly higher than those in patients with the ERCC1 118 TT and CT genotypes.

CONCLUSIONS

The ERCC1 118 CC genotype confers better efficacy of NB-UVB therapy in patients with active vitiligo.

Genome-wide scan demonstrates significant linkage for male sexual orientation

BACKGROUND

Findings from family and twin studies support a genetic contribution to the development of sexual orientation in men. However, previous studies have yielded conflicting evidence for linkage to chromosome Xq28.

METHOD

We conducted a genome-wide linkage scan on 409 independent pairs of homosexual brothers (908 analyzed individuals in 384 families), by far the largest study of its kind to date.

RESULTS

We identified two regions of linkage: the pericentromeric region on chromosome 8 (maximum two-point LOD = 4.08, maximum multipoint LOD = 2.59), which overlaps with the second strongest region from a previous separate linkage scan of 155 brother pairs; and Xq28 (maximum two-point LOD = 2.99, maximum multipoint LOD = 2.76), which was also implicated in prior research.

CONCLUSIONS

Results, especially in the context of past studies, support the existence of genes on pericentromeric chromosome 8 and chromosome Xq28 influencing development of male sexual orientation.

Dental Follicle Cells Participate in Tooth Eruption via the RUNX2-MiR-31-SATB2 Loop

Cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) is characterized by the runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) mutation, which results in delayed tooth eruption due to disturbed functions of dental follicle. Accumulating evidence has revealed a key regulatory circuit, including RUNX2, miR-31, and special AT-rich binding protein 2 (SATB2) acting in concert in mesenchymal stem cell homeostasis and functions. However, whether such a regulatory loop works in dental follicle cells (DFCs) remains unknown. Herein, we investigated the roles of RUNX2-miR-31-SATB2 in DFCs from patients with CCD (DFCs-CCD) to advance our understanding regarding physical tooth eruption. We identified a novel mutation on exon 5 (c.634T>G, p.T212P) in RUNX2 via exome sequencing in the CCD patient with typical clinical presentations. Compared with DFCs from healthy donors, DFCs-CCD displayed significantly lower osteogenic, osteoclast-inductive, and matrix-degrading capacities and had lower RUNX2 (a transcriptional inhibitor of miR-31), higher miR-31, and downregulated SATB2. Lower ratios of RANKL/OPG and RANKL/RANK, as well as decreased expression of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), would lead to inactivation of osteoclasts and suppression of bone matrix remodeling in DFCs-CCD. Furthermore, the roles of the RUNX2-miR-31-SATB2 loop in DFCs-CCD were revealed by endogenous miR-31 knockdown, which resulted in increased SATB2 and RUNX2, as well as osteoclast-inductive and matrix degradation capacities. Conversely, SATB2, RUNX2, MMP9, MMP2, and osteoclast-inductive factors expression declined upon ectopic miR-31 overexpression in normal DFCs. Importantly, neonatal mice with in vivo siRUNX2 delivery exhibited less activated osteoclasts around dental follicles and delayed tooth eruption. Together, these results suggest that RUNX2 mutation/haploinsufficiency disturbs osteoclast-inductive signaling in DFCs, which may be responsible for delayed tooth eruption in CCD patients. Manipulation of the RUNX2-miR-31-SATB2 loop may be a potential way to facilitate tooth eruption in CCD patients.

Pathoanatomy and treatment modifications of metacarpophalangeal joint locking of the thumb

Ten patients with metacarpophalangeal joint locking of the thumb were studied. Three of them underwent surgical release. During surgery, it was found that the radial sesamoid was seated in a cartilage defect on the volar aspect of the metacarpal head. It appeared that the defect was created by the proximal edge of sesamoid. When the abductor pollicis brevis and flexor pollicis brevis muscles were partially detached from their insertion at the base of the proximal phalanx, the locking could be successfully released. We hypothesize the mechanism of the metacarpophalangeal joint locking of the thumb in our cases was a hyperextension injury that displaced the radial sesamoid distally and radially. In turn, the sesamoid's pointed proximal edge wore a groove in the cartilage on the metacarpal head, and under abductor pollicis brevis and flexor pollicis brevis tension, the radial sesamoid was locked into the cartilage defect; thereby causing locking of the joint.

Co3O4 particles grown over nanocrystalline CeO2: influence of precipitation agents and calcination temperature on the catalytic activity for methane oxidation

Crystalline cobalt oxides were prepared by a precipitation method using three different precipitation agents, (NH₄)₂CO₃, Na₂CO₃ and CO(NH₂)₂.

Giant delayed pseudo-aneurysm following screw placement in C1 lateral mass

We report the case of a patient who suffered iatrogenic vertebral artery injury (VAI) during a cervical spine posterior fixation procedure. The patient suffered massive bleeding and hemorrhagic shock at the time of screws placement in C1 lateral mass and C2 pedicle. The postoperative MRI and CT angiography showed a pseudoaneurysm 7.0 cm in diameter in the cervical spine. The iatrogenic VAI during posterior screw fixation is extremely rare. But, it can cause catastrophic consequences. We discuss the causes for the iatrogenic VAI and review the preventative measures and suitable management to avoid iatrogenic complications.

Synergistic antitumor effect of α-pinene and β-pinene with paclitaxel against non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC)

The objective of the present research work was to evaluate the synergistic interactions between Paclitaxel (PAC) with α-pinene and β-pinene using isobolographic method against non-small-cell lung cancer cells (NSCLC). This type of interaction between an established drug and a new compound is expected to enhance the efficacy of paclitaxel in combination as compared in isolation. Further, cell cycle analysis was carried out using flow cytometric analysis. Phase contrast microscopy was used to assess the effect of paclitaxel, α-pinene and β-pinene alone and in combination with each other in order to evaluate the effect of combination on cell apoptosis. Further, mitochondrial membrane potential was monitored in non-small-cell lung cancer cells (NSCLC) when treated with paclitaxel, α-pinene and β-pinene alone and in combination. The results revealed that the combination of PAC with α-pinene or with β-pinene showed a plotted curve below the straight line, generating a substantial synergistic effect. The effects of the following combinations were examined utilizing isobolograms: PAC and α-pinene and PAC and β-pinene. The combination of PAC and α-pinene as well as of PAC and β-pinene actually generated a synergistic effect. We also examined the effects of these compounds on the cell cycle distributions of A549 cells by flow cytometric analysis. The percentage of sub-G0/G1-phase cells was decreased on the addition of α-pinene to PAC, while the population of G0/G1 cells was increased. The morphological changes characteristic of apoptosis like chromatin condensation and fragmentation of the nucleus were seen in PAC+α-pinene and PAC+β-pinene treated NSCLC cells.

Effect of diclofenac on the pharmacokinetics of moxifloxacin in rats

A sensitive and specific method was developed and validated for the determination of moxifloxacin in plasma using HPLC. The effect of diclofenac (12.5, 25, 50 mg/kg) on the pharmacokinetics of orally administered moxifloxacin (40 mg/kg) in rats was investigated. Pharmacokinetic parameters of moxifloxacin were determined in rats following oral administration to rats in the presence and absence of diclofenac. The coadministration of the 2 drugs resulted in 10~29.5% decrease of the AUC and a 24.7~34% decrease of t1/2 for moxifloxacin; Tmax for moxifloxacin was 1.41~1.9-fold higher than that after the administration of moxifloxacin alone; Cmax for moxifloxacin decreased by 20.5~49%, as compared to that after the administration of moxifloxacin alone. Consequently, moxifloxacin and diclofenac should be monitored closely for potential drug interactions.

Design of broadband omnidirectional antireflection coatings using ant colony algorithm

Optimization method which is based on the ant colony algorithm (ACA) is described to optimize antireflection (AR) coating system with broadband omnidirectional characteristics for silicon solar cells incorporated with the solar spectrum (AM1.5 radiation). It's the first time to use ACA method for optimizing the AR coating system. In this paper, for the wavelength range from 400 nm to 1100 nm, the optimized three-layer AR coating system could provide an average reflectance of 2.98% for incident angles from Raveθ+ to 80° and 6.56% for incident angles from 0° to 90°.

Increased oxidative stress and activated heat shock proteins in human cell lines by silver nanoparticles

Due to widely commercial applications of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs), toxicity assessment of this NP is of great importance. This study aimed to investigate the oxidative stress and heat shock response of Ag NPs at different doses to A549 and HepG2 cells. After treatment with different concentrations of Ag NPs for 24 h, oxidative damage indicated by malondialdehyde (MDA), 8-epi-PGF2α, and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-oxo-dG) concentrations and protein levels of heat shock protein A1A (HSPA1A) and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) were determined. Ag NPs induced dose-dependent increases in MDA, 8-epi-PGF2α, and 8-oxo-dG concentrations in both A549 and HepG2 cells. Stress-inducible HSPA1A and HO-1 were also significantly upregulated in a dose-dependent manner. A higher level of HSPA1A and HO-1 activation by Ag NPs occurred in HepG2 cells than that in A549 cells. Compared with that of HSPA1A, Ag NPs induced a stronger increase in protein level of HO-1 in both cell lines. Significant positive correlations between protein levels of HSPA1A and HO-1 and oxidative damage were also observed. In conclusion, Ag NPs could induce oxidative stress in human cell lines. In addition to the products of oxidative stress such as MDA and 8-oxo-dG, HSPs can be used as potential biomarkers in nanotoxicity assessment, especially HO-1.

Improved Interfacial Properties of PA6/DE Blends by DE-g-MAH Prepared through Ultrasound Assisted Extrusion

In this paper, ultrasound was applied in extrusion reaction processing to graft an Elastomer (DE) with maleic anhydride (MAH), in order to improve the non-polarity of DE. Two types of DE-g-MAH were prepared by different methods and had similar grafting degree about 0.2 % and then they were added into the polyamide-6/elastomer (PA6/DE) blends, respectively. The effect of DE-g-MAH on the interfacial properties of PA6/DE blends was studied. The experimental results showed that, compared to the DE-g-MAH initiated by peroxide, DE-g-MAH initiated by ultrasound had better effect on refining the particle size of the dispersion phase and keeping the stability of the phase in the blends, which could be confirmed through SEM and Molau tests. When 5 % DE-g-MAH initiated by peroxide was added, the particle size of dispersion phase was 3.90 μm, however, when 5 % DE-g-MAH initiated by ultrasound was added, the particle size of dispersion phase was 2.82 μm. The results of TGA and mechanical tests showed the improved interfacial interaction and enhanced interfacial adhesion of the blend by adding DE-g-MAH, respectively.

Long-term outcomes after nucleos(t)ide analogue discontinuation in HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B patients

Nucleos(t)ide analogue (NUC) resistance is an important clinical risk resulting from long-term therapy in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) management. Discontinuation of NUCs is a feasible strategy to reduce resistance. We aimed to observe the outcomes after NUC withdrawal in HBeAg-positive CHB patients. A total of 97 patients (11 patients with HBsAg loss and 86 patients with sustained HBeAg seroconversion) were enrolled. HBV DNA levels and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were monitored regularly after discontinuation. Relapse was defined as HBV DNA levels >2000 IU/mL in at least two determinations more than 4 weeks apart. HBeAg seroconversion was achieved within 48 weeks (interquartile range (IQR), 24-72 weeks). The time on consolidation therapy was 96 weeks (IQR, 84-144 weeks). No relapses occurred for HBsAg loss patients. Evidence of relapse was observed in 9.3% of HBeAg seroconversion patients. All relapse cases occurred within 48 weeks after discontinuation. The time to relapse was 33 ± 15 weeks. Elevation of HBV DNA and ALT levels over baseline were only observed in 12.5% of relapse patients. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics (sex, HBV genotype, age or ALT levels) or time on consolidation therapy between patients with relapse or sustained response. NUC discontinuation in HBeAg-positive CHB patients is feasible after achieving HBeAg seroconversion at a minimum of 24 weeks. There is further benefit to prolonging the time on consolidation therapy to reduce relapse. More than 48 weeks of sustained response is a predictive marker for long-term sustained response.

Association between copy number variations of HLA-DQA1 and ankylosing spondylitis in the Chinese Han population

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease with complex genetic traits. Multiple sequence variations have been associated with AS, but explained only a proportion of heritability. The studies herein aimed to explore potential associations between genomic copy number variation (CNV) and AS of Han Chinese. Five AS patients were examined with the high-density comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) microarrays in the first screen test for AS associated CNVs. A total of 533 AS patients and 792 unrelated controls were examined in confirmation studies with the AccuCopy assays. A significant association was observed between the CNV of the HLA-DQA1 and AS. Comparing with controls, AS patients showed an aberrant copy number (CN), and significantly increased number of patients had more than 2 copies of the HLA-DQA1. Therefore, CNV of the HLA-DQA1 may play an important role in susceptibility to AS in Han Chinese population.

A simply HPLC method for determination of cefpodoxime in Chinese volunteer and pharmacokinetic study

A sensitive HPLC method was developed for the determination of cefpodoxime in human plasma. After protein precipitation with acetonitrile, sample was injected into the HPLC system for analysis. The chromatographic separation was carried out on a Diamonsil C18 column with a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile-water. The mobile phase composed of water (containing 20 mmol/L monoammonium phosphate) and acetonitrile (90: 10, v/v). The detection wavelength was set at 254 nm. The standard curve for cefpodoxime was linear over the concentration range of 0.05-8 μg/mL with a lower limit of quantification of 0.05 μg/mL. The intra- and inter-day RSD values were lower than 10%, and the RE values were within±5%. For the pharmacokinetic analysis of plasma, the mean (SD) values obtained for the formulation were: Cmax, 4.21 (0.62) µg/mL; Tmax, 2.47 (0.61) h; t1/2, 2.38 (0.46) h; AUC0-24 h, 21.13 (3.39) µg/mL/h; and AUC0-∞, 23.34 (3.87) µg/mL/h; MRT, 2.21 (0.41) h, respectively.