[Relationship between blood routine test parameters and syncopal recurrence of vasovagal syncope in children]

Objective: To explore the relationship between venous blood routine test parameters and syncopal recurrence of children with vasovagal syncope (VVS). Method: Sixty-three children (male 32, female 31) diagnosed as VVS in Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital from November 2010 to October 2015 were included in a case observational study.Their mean age was (11.2±2.7) years and basic treatment such as predisposing causes avoiding, standing training, autonomic nervous function exercise and oral rehydration salts were advised to them.The clinical data were obtained by out-patient visit and over telephone from December 2015 to January 2016, with a median follow-up period of 10 (4, 26) months. The effects of baseline venous blood routine test parameters, gender, age, and body mass index (BMI) on syncopal recurrence were studied via univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis.Kaplan-Meier curve was used to evaluate the long-term prognosis. Result: Among the 63 VVS children in this study, 31 cases were diagnosed as VVS vasodepressor type, 4 cases as VVS cardioinhibitory type and 28 cases as VVS mixed type, 16 cases (25%) had experienced recurrence of syncope while 47 cases (75%) had not.The result of univariate analysis of Cox regression showed that baseline platelet count (PLT) (HR=1.012, 95%CI: 1.003-1.022) had a marked impact on the survival rate.And the result of multivariate analysis of Cox regression showed that baseline hemoglobin concentration (HGB) (HR=1.055, 95%CI: 1.007-1.105), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) (HR=0.612, 95%CI: 0.423-0.884) and PLT(HR=1.015, 95%CI: 1.006-1.024) had significant effects on survival rate of VVS children.In this study, the one-year, two-year, and three-year survival rate were 83% (52/63), 79% (50/63) and 75% (47/63), respectively. Conclusion: The baseline venous blood routine test parameters HGB, MCH and PLT might be the influencing factors of the syncopal recurrence of VVS children.

Correction: Systematic investigation of the SERS efficiency and SERS hotspots in gas-phase deposited Ag nanoparticle assemblies

Correction for 'Systematic investigation of the SERS efficiency and SERS hotspots in gas-phase deposited Ag nanoparticle assemblies' by L. B. He et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2017, 19, 5091-5101.

Intrinsically patterned two-dimensional materials for selective adsorption of molecules and nanoclusters

Two-dimensional (2D) materials have been studied extensively as monolayers, vertical or lateral heterostructures. To achieve functionalization, monolayers are often patterned using soft lithography and selectively decorated with molecules. Here we demonstrate the growth of a family of 2D materials that are intrinsically patterned. We demonstrate that a monolayer of PtSe₂ can be grown on a Pt substrate in the form of a triangular pattern of alternating 1T and 1H phases. Moreover, we show that, in a monolayer of CuSe grown on a Cu substrate, strain relaxation leads to periodic patterns of triangular nanopores with uniform size. Adsorption of different species at preferred pattern sites is also achieved, demonstrating that these materials can serve as templates for selective self-assembly of molecules or nanoclusters, as well as for the functionalization of the same substrate with two different species.

[Comparison of vacuum bag fixation and Orfit rack with thermoplastic membrane fixation for image-guided cervical cancer radiotherapy]

Objective: To compare the difference of displacement between the vacuum bag fixation and the Orfit rack with thermoplastic membrane fixation of the cervical cancer patients, and to explore the individual fixation of the patients. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 66 patients diagnosed as cervical cancer in Zhangzhou Municipal Hospital of Fujian Province from December 2014 to April 2016. Among them, 33 patients were fixed with vacuum bag, 33 patients were fixed with the Orfit rack with thermoplastic membrane. The cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images were acquired daily for the first three times of the radiotherapy, followed by once every other day for a total of 15 times. The CBCT scan images were matched with the CT scan images, and the matching results were recorded and analyzed. Results: The absolute value of the displacement in the left and right directions of the vacuum bag group was (0.28±0.30) cm, significantly lower than (0.38±0.46) cm in the Orfit rack with thermoplastic membrane group(P<0.001). The absolute value of the displacement in the anteroposterior direction of the vacuum bag group was (0.28±0.32) cm, with no significant difference of (0.27±0.23) cm in the Orfit rack with thermoplastic membrane group (P=0.580). The absolute value of the displacement in the up and down directions was (0.33±0.60) cm, with no statistically significant difference of (0.27±0.48) cm in the Orfit rack with thermoplastic membrane group (P=0.150). During the three times of CBCT scans, the differences of displacement in the left and right directions of the vacuum bag group were negligible, while apparently varied in the anteroposterior and up and down directions, however, the differences were not statistically significant (P>0.05). The change of the displacement in the three-dimensional direction in the Orfit rack with thermoplastic membrane group was marginal, and all of the differences were not significant(all P>0.05). Conclusions: Both the vacuum bag fixation and the Orfit rack with thermoplastic membrane fixation are suitable for the cone-beam CT image-guided radiotherapy of cervical cancer patients. However, the displacement in the left and right directions of the vacuum bag fixation is smaller than the Orfit rack with thermoplastic membrane fixation. During the period of treatment, the mean value of the difference of displacement in the anterior and posterior directions of the Orfit rack with thermoplastic membrane fixation is mild, which can be used individually by the patients with a flexible body and good tolerance.

3D chiral and 2D achiral cobalt(ii) compounds constructed from a 4-(benzimidazole-1-yl)benzoic ligand exhibiting field-induced single-ion-magnet-type slow magnetic relaxation

Organizing magnetically isolated 3d transition metal ions, which behave as single-ion magnet (SIM) units, in a coordination network is a promising approach to design novel single-molecule magnets (SMMs). Herein 3D chiral and 2D achiral cobalt(ii) coordination compounds based on single metal nodes with a 4-(benzimidazole-1-yl)benzoic acid (Hbmzbc) ligand, namely, [Co(bmzbc)2(1,2-etdio)]n () (1,2-etdio = 1,2-ethanediol) and [Co(bmzbc)2(Hbmzbc)]n (), have been synthesized and structurally characterized. The 3D chiral structure with 2-fold interpenetrating qtz topological nets consisting of totally achiral components was obtained via spontaneous resolution, while the achiral structure is a 2D (4,4) net. In both structures, individual cobalt(ii) ions are spatially well separated by the long organic ligands in the well-defined networks. Magnetic measurements on and showed field-induced slow magnetic relaxation resulting from single-ion anisotropy of the individual Co(ii) ions. Analysis of the dynamic ac susceptibilities with the Arrhenius law afforded an anisotropy energy barrier of 16.8(3) and 31.3(2) K under a 2 kOe static magnetic field for and , respectively. The distinct coordination environments of the Co(ii) ions in and lead to the different anisotropic energy barriers.

TNF-α was involved in calcium hydroxide-promoted osteogenic differentiation of human DPSCs through NF-κB/p38MAPK/Wnt pathway

It has been reported that calcium hydroxide can induce proliferation, migration, and mineralization in dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs), but the underlying molecular mechanisms are still unclear. In this study, we sought to explore the role of calcium hydroxide in the cell proliferation and directional differentiation of DPSCs and to study the regulatory effect of NF-κB, p38MAPK, and Wnt signaling on differentiation of DPSCs. CCK8 cell assay, Wound Healing Assay, and Alkaline Phosphatase Staining Assay were respectively used to determine the proliferation rate, migration and ALP expression of DPSCs. Alizarin Red Staining Assay was used to observe the mineralization of DPSCs. RT-PCR analysis and Western Blot Analysis displayed the expression of related fators at mRNA and protein level, respectively. In the present study, we found that NF-κB, p38MAPK, and Wnt signaling could abolish calcium hydroxide-induced proliferation of DPSCs. The inhibition of NF-κB, p38MAPK, and Wnt signaling suppressed the migration, ALP expression, and mineralization of DPSCs. NF-κB, p38MAPK, and Wnt signaling involved in directional differentiation of DPSCs. Moverover, calcium hydroxide could activate NF-κB, p38MAPK, and Wnt pathway by regulating TNF-α. Our study showed that NF-κB, p38MAPK, and Wnt signaling pathway were involved in calcium hydroxide-induced proliferation, migration, mineralization, and osteogenic differentiation in DPSCs. Calcium hydroxide affected NF-κB, p38MAPK, and Wnt pathway by regulating TNF-α.

[Textual criticism and discrimination on the naming of"Five-abstention Soup of Medical Professional"from the Han-tomb of the Marquis of Haihun]

A lacquer vessel with the inscription of Yi gong wu jin tang (Five-abstention Soup of Medical Profession) has been unearthed from the Han-tomb of Marquis of Haihun, in which"Five abstentions"is related to the incantations and abstention therapies prevalent in the Qin and Han Dynasties. The"Five-abstention Law"is the five rituals and methods during the process of practicing incantations and abstentions therapies including"keeping one's thinking (cun si)","holding the breath(bi qi)","twirling eyes (nian mu)","stepping after Yu's sample (yu bu)"and"incanting and blessing (zhou zhu)". The"Five-abstention Law"uses the medium"soup"to achieve the purpose of treatment."Soup"refers either to"decoction"or to"magic water". The lacquer vessel with the inscription"Five-abstention Soup of Medical professional"could be an instrument for implementing the process of practising the"Five-abstention Law", reflecting the historical facts that Liu He, the Marquis Haihun did accept the incantations and abstention therapies.

[Effect of fibroblast growth factor 1 on the proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression in submandibular gland of diabetic mice]

Objective: To examine the proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression in submandibular gland of diabetic mice and to investigate the influence of fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF-1) on PCNA expression and its possible mechanism. Methods: Sixteen db/db diabetic male mice were randomly divided into diabetic group and diabetic-FGF-1 group (n=8). Eight age-matched db/m mice served as a control group. After FGF-1 was administered intraperitoneally to diabetic-FGF-1 group continuously for 16 weeks, blood glucose and body weight of each mouse in the three groups were detected at 0, 4, 8, 12, 16 weeks. Then the flow rate of saliva in three groups was compared at 0, 8, 16 weeks. At 16 week, bilateral submandibular glands were resected. Then HE staining was performed to observe the histological morphology of submandibular gland and PCNA expression was examined by immunohistochemical staining. Results: Four weeks after administration, the blood glucose in diabetic-FGF-1 group decreased markedly, close to the control group (P>0.05). Weight loss in diabetic-FGF-1 group was noticeable at 8 weeks after administration, but still higher than that in the control group (P<0.05). The flow rate of saliva in diabetic-FGF-1 group increased gradually after administration, which was higher at 8, 16 weeks ([260.1±43.3], [308.5±34.0] mg·min(-1)·kg(-1)) respectively than that in the diabetic group at the same time point ([181.8±37.5], [194.9±49.8] mg·min(-1)·kg(-1)) (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, submandibular glands in diabetic group significantly atrophied and the glandular atrophy in diabetic-FGF-1 group was alleviated. The submandibular gland index in the control group, diabetic group and diabetic-FGF-1 group were (7.45±0.63), (2.23±0.26), (3.97±0.15) mg/g, respectively (P<0.05). HE staining showed that the histological morphology of submandibular gland in diabetic-FGF-1 group was clearer, and acinar and ductal atrophy were less significant than diabetic group. Immunohistochemistry showed that the rate of PCNA-positive cells in the control group, diabetic group and diabetic-FGF-1 group were (45.23±7.78)%, (11.50±1.69)%, (36.98±6.53)% respectively (P<0.05). Conclusions: FGF-1 can up-regulate the expression of PCNA in submandibular gland of diabetic mice. This effect may be one of the important mechanisms of FGF-1 reversing the structural atrophy and dysfunction of submandibular gland caused by diabetes mellitus.

[Risk for metastasis of lymph node between sternocleidomastoid and sternohyoid muscle in papillary thyroid cancer]

Objective: To analyze the risk factors for metastasis of lymph nodes between sternocleidomastoid and sternohyoid muscle (LNSS) in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). Methods: Papillary thyroid cancer patients with clinically positive lateral lymph node metastasis (cN1) who underwent surgery including LNSS dissection between May 1, 2013 and May 31, 2016 at the Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center were retrospectively studied. Logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate possible clinicopathological factors related to LNSS metastasis. Results: In 85 patients, 54 patients (63.5%) showed LNSS in their surgical specimen, and 20 patients (23.5%) had pathologically positive LNSS metastasis. Patients with LNSS showed preoperatively higher levels of serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO-Ab) compared to patients only with fibrofatty tissues between sternocleidomastoid and sternohyoid muscle (P<0.05), and they also displayed a higher proportion of multifocality in ipsilateral thyroid lobe (P<0.05). Multi-factor analysis indicated that LNSS metastasis was correlated with original tumor size (OR=1.819, 95%CI 1.050-3.850, P=0.002) and Level Ⅳ lymph node metastasis (OR=2.190, 95%CI 1.132-2.334, P=0.005). Furthermore, the number of positive LNSS was tightly correlated to that of level Ⅳ lymph node metastasis(P<0.05). Conclusion: LNSS metastasis is occult but not quite rare in PTC. Patients with extensive lymph node metastasis in Level Ⅳhave a higher risk for metastasis of LNSS.

[Comparison of MPure-12 Automatic Nucleic Acid Purification and Chelex-100 Method]

OBJECTIVES

To explore the forensic application value of MPure-12 automatic nucleic acid purification （MPure-12 Method） for DNA extraction by extracting and typing DNA from bloodstains and various kinds of biological samples with different DNA contents.

METHODS

Nine types of biological samples, such as bloodstains, semen stains, and saliva were collected. DNA were extracted using MPure-12 method and Chelex-100 method, followed by PCR amplification and electrophoresis for obtaining STR-profiles.

RESULTS

The samples such as hair root, chutty, butt, muscular tissue, saliva stain, bloodstain and semen stain were typed successfully by MPure-12 method. Partial alleles were lacked in the samples of saliva, and the genotyping of contact swabs was unsatisfactory. Additional, all of the bloodstains （20 μL, 15 μL, 10 μL, 5 μL, 1 μL） showed good typing results using Chelex-100 method. But the loss of alleles occurred in 1 μL blood volume by MPure-12 method.

CONCLUSIONS

MPure-12 method is suitable for DNA extraction of a certain concentration blood samples．Chelex-100 method may be better for the extraction of trace blood samples．This instrument used in nucleic acid extraction has the advantages of simplicity of operator, rapidity, high extraction efficiency, high rate of reportable STR-profiles and lower man-made pollution.

[Forensic Application of HuaxiaTM Platinum Kit]

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the genetic polymorphism of 23 autosomal STR loci of Huaxia™ Platinum kit in Chinese Han population, and to evaluate the forensic efficiency of Huaxia™ Platinum kit.

METHODS

A total of 500 unrelated healthy individuals from Han population were genotyped with Huaxia™ Platinum kit. The frequency distribution and the parameter of population genetics of STR loci were analysed statistically. Huaxia™ Platinum kit was compared with other 7 commercial STR kits commonly seen at home and abroad in the number of STR loci, interior label, fluorescent mark, total number of alleles in Ladder and system effectiveness.

RESULTS

All the 23 autosomal STR loci were consistent with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium （P>0.05）. The discrimination power was 0.791 5-0.986 2. The polymorphism information content （PIC） was 0.559 0-0.914 0. The combined discrimination power （CDP） was 1-4.1×10⁻²⁸, while combined probability of paternity exclusion in trio （CPET） and in duo （CPED） were 1-4.1×10⁻¹⁰ and 1-8.4×10⁻⁷, respectively. Compared with other 7 kits, Huaxia™ Platinum kit contained the most number of alleles within the Ladder.

CONCLUSIONS

All the 23 autosomal STR loci of Huaxia™ Platinum kit with highly polymorphic in Han population can be used for paternity testing and individual identification. Compared with other 7 kits, it appears that Huaxia™ Platinum kit can provide more genetic information.

Prevalence of stroke and associated risk factors among middle-aged and older farmers in western China

Objectives

China has the world’s largest population and the stroke has become the leading cause of death in recent years. The purpose of this study was to explore the associations between hypertension, family history of stroke, diabetes mellitus, obesity and stroke among middle-aged and older farmers of western China. A population-based study was conducted from June 2014 to April 2015 in Shaanxi and Sichuan provinces.

Methods

Twenty thousand five hundred twenty-five Chinese middle-aged and older farmers (≥40 years) were recruited to the Qinling-Daba Mountains Region Stroke Study. A structured-questionnaire was used to collect data through face-to-face interviews. Demographic characteristics, risk factors, medical history, and other clinical characteristics were recorded for all participants. The association between hypertension, family history of stroke, diabetes mellitus, obesity and stroke were analyzed by using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

The stoke prevalence rate was 1380/100,000 in middle-aged and older farmers of western China. The difference in hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity and family history between different age groups had statistical significance (p < 0.05). The prevalence rate of hypertension and family history of stroke were higher in male population than in the female population. The difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Univariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated age, gender, hypertension, obesity and family history of stroke were stroke risk factors (p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the odds ratios of family history of stroke, obesity and hypertension were 7.177, 4.389 and 3.647 respectively.

Conclusions

Family history is the strongest stroke risk factor in middle-aged and older farmers of western China.

[The multicenter study on the registration and follow-up of low anticoagulation therapy for the heart valve operation in China]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the optimal anticoagulation methods and monitoring strategy for Chinese patients undergoing heart valve replacement, which is potentially quite different from western populations.

METHODS

In this multicenter prospective cohort study, the anticoagulation and monitoring strategy data was acquired from 25 773 in-hospital patients in 35 medical centers and 20 519 patients in outpatient clinic in 11 medical centers from January 1st, 2011 to December 31th, 2015.

RESULTS

As for in-hospital patients, mean age of study population was (48.6±11.2) years old; main etiology of valve pathology was rheumatic (87.5%) origin among study cohort; 94.8% of study population received mechanical valve implantation; international normalized ratio (INR) monitoring (in all the study centers) and low-intensity anticoagulation strategy (31 hospitals chose target INR range of 1.5-2.5, and actual values of INR among 89.2% of 100 069 in-hospital monitoring samples were 1.5-2.5), with mean actual INR values of 1.84±0.53, and warfarin dosage of (2.82±0.93) mg/d were widely adopted among the study centers; strategies of in-hospital warfarin administration were similar in all the study centers; complication rates of low-intensity anticoagulation strategy were low in severe hemorrhage (0.02%), thrombosis (0.05%), and thromboembolism (0.05%) events, without anticoagulation-related death.As for 18 974 outpatient clinic patients, the follow-up rate was 92.47%, with a total of 30 012 patient-years (Pty). Anticoagulation-related morbidity and mortality rates were 0.67% and 0.15% Pty; major hemorrhage morbidity and mortality rates were 0.25% and 0.13% Pty; thromboembolism morbidity and mortality rates were 0.45% and 0.03% Pty.The mean dosage of warfarin daily dosage was (2.85±1.23) mg/d and INR value was 1.82±0.57.No significant regional difference in the intensity of anticoagulation therapy was noted during the study.

CONCLUSIONS

INR can be used as a normalized indicator for intensity of anticoagulation therapy in China.The optimal anticoagulation intensity with INR range from 1.5 to 2.5 is safe and effective for Chinese patients with heart valve replacement, and there is no significant regional difference in the intensity of anticoagulation therapy.

Paclitaxel Drug-eluting Tracheal Stent Could Reduce Granulation Tissue Formation in a Canine Model

Background:

Currently available silicone and metallic stents for tracheal stenosis are associated with many problems. Granulation proliferation is one of the main complications. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of paclitaxel drug-eluting tracheal stent in reducing granulation tissue formation in a canine model, as well as the pharmacokinetic features and safety profiles of the coated drug.

Methods:

Eight beagles were randomly divided into a control group (bare-metal stent group, n = 4) and an experimental group (paclitaxel-eluting stent group, n = 4). The observation period was 5 months. One beagle in both groups was sacrificed at the end of the 1^st and 3^rd months, respectively. The last two beagles in both groups were sacrificed at the end of 5^th month. The proliferation of granulation tissue and changes in tracheal mucosa were compared between the two groups. Blood routine and liver and kidney function were monitored to evaluate the safety of the paclitaxel-eluting stent. The elution method and high-performance liquid chromatography were used to characterize the rate of in vivo release of paclitaxel from the stent.

Results:

Compared with the control group, the proliferation of granulation tissue in the experimental group was significantly reduced. The drug release of paclitaxel-eluting stent was the fastest in the 1^st month after implantation (up to 70.9%). Then, the release slowed down gradually. By the 5^th month, the release reached up to 98.5%. During the observation period, a high concentration of the drug in the trachea (in the stented and adjacent unstented areas) and lung tissue was not noted, and the blood test showed no side effect.

Conclusions:

The paclitaxel-eluting stent could safely reduce the granulation tissue formation after stent implantation in vivo, suggesting that the paclitaxel-eluting tracheal stent might be considered for potential use in humans in the future.

The Highly Connected MOFs Constructed from Nonanuclear and Trinuclear Lanthanide-Carboxylate Clusters: Selective Gas Adsorption and Luminescent pH Sensing

The highly odd-numbered 15-connected nonanuclear [Ln₉(μ₃-O)₂(μ₃-OH)₁₂(O₂C-)₁₂(HCO₂)₃] and 9-connected trinuclear [Ln₃(μ₃-O)(O₂C-)₆(HCO₂)₃] lanthanide-carboxylate clusters with triangular and linear carboxylate bridging ligands were synergistically combined into Ln-MOFs, [(CH₃)₂NH₂]₃{[Ln₉(μ₃-O)₂(μ₃-OH)₁₂(H₂O)₆][Ln₃(μ₃-O)(H₂O)₃](HCO₂)₃(BTB)₆}·(solvent)_x (abbreviated as JXNU-3, Ln = Gd, Tb, Er; BTB^3- = benzene-1,3,5-tris(4-benzoate)), displaying a (3,9,15)-connected topological net. The JXNU-3(Tb) exhibits highly selective CO₂ adsorption capacity over CH₄ that resulted from the high localized charge density induced by the presence of the nonanuclear and trinuclear cluster units. In addition, JXNU-3(Tb) with high chemical stability and characteristic bright green color exhibits fluorescent pH sensing, which is pertinent to the different protonation levels of the carboxylate groups of the benzene-1,3,5-tris(4-benzoate) ligand with varying pH.

[Effects of recombinant human growth hormone on local expression of insulin-like growth factor-Ⅰ during orthodontic tooth movement]

OBJECTIVE

To explore in vivo the expression of insulin-like growth factor-Ⅰ(IGF-Ⅰ)under stress, and to analyze changes of the local expression related to recombinant human growth hormone(rhGH)treatment.

METHODS

Forty Wistar rats were randomly divided into control and growth hormone groups, 20 in each group. A force of 0.49 N was applied to move the right upper first molars mesially. The growth hormone group and control group received daily subcutaneous injections of rhGH and equivalent volumes of saline, respectively. The rats were sacrificed on days 1, 3, 7 and 14. Micro-CT-reconstructed images were used to survey root resorption, and horizontal sections of the maxillae were prepared for tartrate-resistant acid phosphate(TRAP)and immunohistochemistry staining.

RESULTS

Tooth moved faster in the growth hormone group([0.291±0.017], [0.513±0.111]mm)than in the control group([0.245±0.033], [0.368± 0.052]mm)on days 7 and 14(P<0.05). More osteoclasts on day 3, and fewer osteoclasts on day 7 were observed in the growth hormone group([4.0±0.7], [2.6±0.6]cell/high-power field)than in the control group([2.8±0.6], [3.8±0.8]cell/high-power field)(P<0.05). The number of IGF-Ⅰ positive osteoclasts in the growth hormone group([4.7 ± 0.7]cell/high-power field)was significantly greater than that in the control group([2.7±0.5]cell/high-power field)(P<0.01)on day 3. Compared with the control group([18.6±1.5], [23.3± 3.8]cell/high-power field), IGF-Ⅰ positive PDL cells increased on days 7 and 14 in the growth hormone groups([29.6±3.4], [37.5±6.1]cell/high-power field)(P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

rhGH could stimulate IGF-Ⅰ expression in PDL, and accelerate bone remodeling and tooth movement.

[The anatomy of maxillary sinus in single maxillary posterior edentulous area based on cone-beam CT]

OBJECTIVE

To compare the anatomy of maxillary sinus in single maxillary posterior edentulous area and the contralateral side without loss of tooth, and to investigate the effect of tooth loss on the anatomy of maxillary sinus by cone-beam CT(CBCT).

METHODS

A total of 128 patients with single unilateral single maxillary tooth loss were included in the study. CBCT was taken in these patients and the thickness of the maxillary lateral wall, mucosa thickness of sinus floor and sinus septa of the maxillary sinus were recorded and compared with the contralateral side. The bone height from the sinus floor to the ridge crest and the distance between maxillary sinus floor and the vascular anastomosis of maxillary lateral wall were analyzed.

RESULTS

The thickness of maxillary sinus lateral wall and maxillary sinus mucosa were 1.59 (1.22), 1.61(1.95) mm in the maxillary posterior edentulous area and significantly less than those of the contralateral side(1.76[1.10], 1.91[2.23] mm)(P<0.05), and the data was demonstrated using median(quartile range). The difference of the mean number of maxillary sinus septa between the two sides was not statistically significant(P>0.05). There was a negative correlation between the bone height from the sinus floor to the ridge crest and the distance between maxillary sinus floor and the vascular anastomosis of maxillary lateral wall (r= -0.343, P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The changes of the thickness of lateral wall of maxillary sinus and maxillary sinus mucosa are closely related to tooth loss. The change of the number of maxillary sinus septa is not related to tooth loss. There is a negative correlation between the bone height from the sinus floor to the ridge crest and the distance between maxillary sinus floor and the vascular anastomosis of maxillary lateral wall.

HSP90 stabilizes B-cell receptor kinases in a multi-client interactome: PU-H71 induces CLL apoptosis in a cytoprotective microenvironment

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is characterized by the accumulation of B cells in the hematopoietic system and lymphoid tissues. Although inhibitors targeting the B-cell receptor (BCR) pathway have been successful in the treatment of the disease, the underlying mechanisms leading to BCR over-activity in CLL are not fully understood. In this study, we found that HSP90, a highly conserved molecular chaperone, is overexpressed in CLL compared with resting B cells. HSP90 overexpression is accompanied by the overexpression of several BCR kinases including LYN, spleen tyrosine kinase, Bruton tyrosine kinase and AKT. Chemical and immune-precipitation demonstrated that these BCR constituents are present in a multi-client chaperone complex with HSP90. Inhibition of HSP90 with PU-H71 destabilized the BCR kinases and caused apoptosis of CLL cells through the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. Further, PU-H71 induced apoptosis in the presence of stromal co-culture or cytoprotective survival signals. Finally, genetic knockdown of HSP90 and its client AKT, but not BTK, reduced CLL viability. Overall, our study suggests that the chaperone function of HSP90 contributes to the over-activity of the BCR signaling in CLL and inhibition of HSP90 has the potential to achieve a multi-targeting effect. Thus, HSP90 inhibition may be explored to prevent or overcome drug resistance to single targeting agents.

[Effects of wild-type PTEN overexpression and its mutation on F-actin in activated hepatic stellate cells]

Objective: To investigate the effect of overexpression of wild-type phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) deleted on chromosome 10 and its mutant G129E (exhibiting the activity of protein phosphatase and losing the activity of lipid phosphatase) on F-actin in activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) cultured in vitro. Methods: The activated hepatic stellate cell-T6 (HSC-T6) cells were cultured in vitro, and activated HSCs were transfected with adenovirus that carried wild-type PTEN gene and G129E gene using transient transfection. The HSCs were divided into the following groups: control group, which was transfected with DMEM medium instead of virus solution; Ad-GFP group, which was transfected with the empty adenovirus vector with the expression of green fluorescent protein (GFP); Ad-PTEN group, which was transfected with the recombinant adenovirus with wild-type PTEN gene and GFP expression; Ad-G129E group, which was transfected with the recombinant adenovirus with G129E gene and GFP expression. Western blot and quantitative real-time PCR were used to measure the protein and mRNA expression of PTEN in activated HSCs; under a laser scanning confocal microscope (LSCM), phalloidine labeled with the fluorescein tetramethylrhodamine isothiocyanate (TRITC) was used to observe the morphology of HSCs, distribution and fluorescence intensity of F-actin, and changes in pseudopodia and stress fibers, and a calcium fluorescence probe (Rhod-2/AM) was used to measure the changes in Ca(2+) concentration in HSCs. A one-way analysis of variance was used for comparison between multiple groups, and the least significant difference test was used for comparison between two groups. Results: Wild-type PTEN and G129E genes were highly expressed in activated HSCs. In the control group and the Ad-GFP group, HSCs had a starlike or polygonal shape, F-actin was reconfigured and formed a large number of stress fibers which stretched across the whole cell, and layered pseudopodia were seen around the cell. In the Ad-PTEN group and the Ad-G129E group, the HSCs had a fusiform shape, F-actin was mainly seen around the cell, a small number of stress fibers were seen inside the cell, and layered pseudopodia around the cell disappeared. The Ad-PTEN group and the Ad-G129E group had significant reductions in the fluorescence intensity of F-actin compared with the control group and the Ad-GFP group (357.67±13.39/377.25±14.55 vs 961.87±27.33/954.68±20.71, F = 1783.486, P < 0.05), while there were no significant differences between the Ad-PTEN group and the Ad-G129E group, as well as between the control group and the Ad-GFP group (P > 0.05). The Ad-PTEN group and the Ad-G129E group had significant reductions in the relative concentration of Ca(2+) compared with the control group and the Ad-GFP group (251.60±90.88/352.18±146.01 vs 1953.95±132.99/1937.57±115.17, F = 834.988, P < 0.05), while there were no significant differences between the Ad-PTEN group and the Ad-G129E group, as well as between the control group and the Ad-GFP group (P > 0.05). Conclusion: The overexpressed wild-type PTEN and its mutant G129E can significantly inhibit the formation and reconfiguration of cytoskeletal protein F-actin and reduce the concentration of Ca2+ in activated HSCs in vitro. In addition, there are no significant differences in the above effects between wild-type PTEN and G129E.

Evolution from linear tetranuclear clusters into one-dimensional chains of Dy(iii) single-molecule magnets with an enhanced energy barrier

Structural evolution from Dy₄ clusters into 1D Dy(iii)-chains, the anisotropy energy barrier is enhanced from 45.4(2) to 144.2(1) K.

Effects of miR-27a upregulation on thyroid cancer cells migration, invasion, and angiogenesis

Thyroid cancer is the most common type of endocrine tumor. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role in a variety of diseases, especially cancer occurrence and progression. However, the specific mechanism by which miRNAs trigger disease states has not been fully elucidated. This study aims to investigate the role of miR-27a in thyroid cancer cells. A wound healing assay was adopted to examine cell migration. A transwell assay was applied to assess cell invasion. A thyroid cancer xenograft model was established using BALB/c nude mice. Western blot was performed to quantify iNOS expression. Tumor tissue blood vessel density was evaluated via immunohistochemistry assays. The results indicated that miR-27a downregulation inhibited thyroid cancer cell migration, while upregulation of miR-27a promoted thyroid cancer cell migration (P < 0.05). Furthermore, reduction in miR-27a expression suppressed thyroid cancer cell invasion (P < 0.05). In the nude mouse model of thyroid cancer xenograft, upregulation of miR-27 induced iNOS expression in pathological tumor tissues, whereas miR-27a inhibition resulted in the opposite effect (P < 0.05). CD105 level was also significantly increased during miR-27a upregulation, and was declined when miR-27a was inhibited (P < 0.05). In conclusion, miR-27a upregulation in thyroid cancer cells affects tumor cell migration, invasion, and angiogenesis by targeting downstream genes. Therefore, miR27a may act as a biomarker of thyroid cancer.

[Effect of self-expanding bare metal stents of different diameters on the trachea of dogs]

Objective: To study the effect of self-expanding bare metal stents on the trachea of dogs, and therefore to provide useful information for choice of airway stents by interventional physicians. Methods: In this experiment, 8 beagles were randomly divided into 4 groups. Four self-expanding metal stents of different diameters (16, 18, 20 and 22 mm, respectively) were placed in the trachea of these beagles for 3 months and their impacts on normal trachea were observed. Results: In the 16 mm stent group (stent-to-airway diameter ratio 103%), good epithelialization was observed and the tracheal structure had no significant damage. In the 18 mm stent group (stent-to-airway diameter ratio 116%), slight granulation tissues were observed, but the cartilage and outer membrane were normal. In the 20 mm stent group (stent-to-airway diameter ratio 129%), severe granulation tissues were observed. Cartilage was damaged but outer membrane was normal. In the 22 mm stent group (stent-to-airway diameter ratio 142%), no obvious granulation tissues were found. Cartilage was normal, but outer membrane was ruptured. Conclusion: In a certain range, tracheal granulation tissues increased as the stent diameter increased. However, if the stent diameter continued to increase, a decreasing trend of tracheal granulation was observed, but severe tracheal injury by stent expansion force would occur.

[Study on correlation between retinal vessel morphology or ocular hemodynamic parameter and internal carotid artery stenosis]

Objective: To analyze the correlation between retinal vascular calibers, ocular blood flow parameters and internal carotid artery stenosis and to evaluate the effect of internal carotid artery stenosis on ocular blood vessels comprehensively. Methods: A retrospective case-control study. The clinical data of 141 patients who underwent head-and-neck computed tomography (CT) angiography examinations of the ICA were collected at Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University from January 2014 to January 2016. According to diagnostic criteria, the patients were divided into four groups: the non-stenosis group, the mild stenosis group, the moderate stenosis group, and the severe stenosis andocclusion group. The retinal vascular caliber was measured in color fundus photograph by IVAN software. Color Doppler ultrasonography was used to measure the parameters of ocular blood flow, including the peak systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV), resistance index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI). The enumeration data were analyzed with chi-square test, the measurement data were analyzed with rank-sum test, and the correlation test was performed with spearman. Results: The gender ratio of the patients without stenosis, mild stenosis, moderate stenosis, severe stenosis and occlusion was 12/7, 31/19, 28/25, 12/7, χ² test was not statistically significant (χ²= 0.79, P=0.85); There was no statistically significant difference between the different groups (χ²= 0.15, P=0.68), the age of four groups were (64.1±8.3), (54.3±14.3), (68.9±11.8) and (59.1±8.0) y, respectively. In the no internal carotid artery stenosis group, the arteries diameter is (164.5±15.6) μm ,the vein diameter is (245.6±20.0) μm and the arteriovenous ratio is 0.7±0.1. There is no difference among the mild stenosis group, moderate stenosis group and the severe stenosis (χ²_{artery calibe}r=6.92, P_{artery calibe}r=0.08; χ²_{vein diamete}r=4.16, P_{vein diamete}r=0.25; χ²_{arteriolar-venular ratio}=1.38,P_{arteriolar-venular ratio}=0.71) . The PSV of central retinal artery in the above groups were (14.6±3.6), (34.4±13.2), (35.7±14.6), (42.3±19.0)cm/s respectively, the data were analyzed by rank-sum test and there was a significant difference (χ²=13.44, P< 0.01) ; The PSV of the posterior ciliary artery in the above groups (17.6±6.5), (15.0±4.6), (13.4±4.3) and (11.0±3.2)cm/s respectively, the data were analyzed by rank-sum test and there was a significant difference (χ²=22.71, P<0.01) , EDV were (5.90±2.2), (5.1±2.1), (4.3±1.5) and (4.3±4.8)cm/s respectively and there was a significant difference (χ²=20.36, P<0.01) .There was a correlation between retinal artery diameter, PSV and EDV of the central retinal artery, PSV and EDV of the posterior ciliary artery and the diameter of the internal carotid artery but without linear correlation. (r_{artery calibe}r=-0.23, P_{artery calibe}r=0.01; r_{PSV of central retinal artery}= -0.29, P_{PSV of central retinal artery}<0.01; r_{PSV of posteri or ciliary artery}=-0.34, P_{PSV of posterior ciliary artery}<0.01, r_{EDV of posterior ciliary artery}=-0.35, P_{EDV of posterior ciliary artery}<0.01). Conclusions: There was a correlation between retinal artery diameter, PSV and EDV of the central retinal artery, PSV and EDV of the posterior ciliary artery and the diameter of the internal carotid artery. PSV of the central retinal artery, PSV and EDV of the posterior ciliary artery changed significantly when the internal carotid artery stenosis existed. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2016, 52: 905-910).

[Epidemiological characteristics of dyslipidemia in remote rural areas of Xinjiang, 2009-2010]

Objective: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of dyslipidemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, high blood low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and low blood high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in remote rural areas of Xinjiang and analyze these indicators' epidemiological characteristics. Methods: A survey of 13 000 individuals (aged ≥18 years) was conducted using a four-stage cluster random sampling method in Jiashi, Xinyuan, Aheqi, and Shawan Counties, Xinjiang, in 2009-2010. After nonpermanent residents were excluded, 12 154 individuals were included in this study. Questionnaire and physical examinations were conducted, including collection of fasting blood to detect TG, TC, LDL-C, and HDL-C. The results were calculated after complex weighting and compared according to the prevalence of different gender and age groups. Results: The overall levels of TG, TC, LDL-C, and HDL-C were 1.34±1.09, 4.45±1.16, 2.36±0.86, and 1.37±0.58 mmol/L, respectively. After complex weighting, the overall prevalence of dyslipidemia was 35.4%; that among men (42.9%) was greater than that among women (29.5%; χ²=234.19, P<0.001), and the prevalence was 35.9%, 34.5%, and 35.1% (χ²=1.52, P=0.467) in participants aged 18-44, 45-59, and ≥60 years, respectively. The overall prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia was 11.4%; that among men (13.5%) was greater than that among women (9.8%; χ²= 40.72, P<0.001), and the prevalence was 9.6%, 13.0%, and 13.2% (χ²=38.71, P<0.001) in participants aged 18-44, 45-59, and ≥60 years, respectively. The prevalence of hypercholesterolemia was 5.7%; that among men(5.0%) was greater than that among women (6.2%; χ²=6.95, P=0.008), and the prevalence was 3.5%, 7.4%, and 8.4% (χ²=105.24, P<0.001) in participants aged 18-4, 45-59, and ≥60 years, respectively. The prevalence of high blood LDL-C was 2.8%, and there was no significant difference between men (3.0%) and women (2.4%; χ²=1.43, P=0.231); the prevalence was 3.5%, 7.4%, and 8.4% (χ²=42.81, P<0.001) in participants aged 18-44, 45-59, and ≥60 years, respectively. The prevalence of low blood HDL-C was 24.0%; that among men (31.6%) was greater than that among women (18.0%; χ²=304.02, P<0.001), and the prevalence was 27.8%, 20.6% and 19.5% (χ²=96.61, P<0.001) in participants aged 18-44, 45-59, and ≥ 60 years, respectively. Conclusions: Low blood HDL-C was the main type of dyslipidemia among the population in remote rural areas of Xinjiang. The prevalence of dyslipidemia among men was greater than that among women, and there was a trend of younger men than women showing dyslipidemia.

NJ cluster analysis of the SnRK2, PYR/PYL/RCAR, and ABF genes in Tibetan hulless barley

The abscisic acid (ABA) signaling pathway is known as one of the most important signaling pathways in plants and is mediated by multiple regulators. The genes SnRK2, PYR/PYL/RCAR, and ABF are relevant to both ABA-dependent and -independent signaling pathways. To elucidate the profile of these genes from Tibetan hulless barley (Hordeum vulgare L. var. nudum Hook. f.), we collected available sequences from RNA-Seq data, together with NCBI data from five other model plant species (Arabidopsis thaliana, Brachypodium distachyon, Oryza sativa, Populus trichocarpa, and Sorghum bicolor). Gene trees of SnRK2, PYR/PYL/RCAR, and ABF were constructed using a neighbor joining (NJ) method. For all genes, we identified a dominant group in which all six species were represented. Three, four, and five groups were found in the NJ trees of SnRK2, PYR/PYL/RCAR, and ABF, respectively. For each gene, Tibetan hulless barley was divided into three groups. Our analyses indicated that Tibetan hulless barley was associated with B. distachyon. The NJ cluster analysis also suggested that Tibetan hulless barley was affiliated with S. bicolor (SnRK2), A. thaliana (PYR/PYL/RCAR), and O. sativa (ABF). These results illustrate a diverse expression of genes SnRK2, PYR/PYL/RCAR, and ABF, and suggest a relationship among the six species studied. Collectively, our characterization of the three components of the ABA signaling pathway may contribute to improve stress tolerance in Tibetan hulless barley.

Therapeutic potential of Oroxylin A in rheumatoid arthritis

Excessive inflammation contributes greatly to the pathogenesis and development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Oroxylin A (OA) is a natural anti-inflammatory flavonoid compound. In this study, we investigated the effects of OA on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) and human RA fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS). CIA was induced in DBA/1 mice and mice were intraperitoneally treated with OA (10mg/kg) for 10days. Arthritis severity was evaluated every day and the histopathologic examination of joints was done. Serum levels of anti-collagen II antibodies (anti-CII Abs) and cytokines were determined by ELISA. Frequency of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and Th17 cells in draining inguinal lymph nodes (ILN) was quantified by flow cytometry. FLS from patients with active RA were treated with varying doses of oroxylin A, followed by stimulation with tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α (10ng/mL). The production of cytokines was measured by ELISA. Signal transduction proteins were examined by western blot. OA significantly diminished the arthritis and histological damage. Serum anti-CII Abs, IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα, and IL-17 were significantly diminished by OA treatment. Analysis of CD4+T cell populations in OA-treated mice showed an increase in Tregs and reduction in Th17 cells in the ILN. In vitro, OA decreased the secretion of IL-1β and IL-6 from TNFα-stimulated RA FLS in a dose-dependent manner. TNFα-induced p38 MAPK, ERK1/2 and NF-κB signaling pathways were suppressed by OA. Our results indicate that OA exerts an anti-inflammatory activity and may have therapeutic potential for human RA.

[Breast lymphoma ultrasound image and clinical pathological analysis]

Objective: To investigate the relationship between different image sonographic findings and different pathological breast lymphoma. Methods: A total of 24 patients of breast lymphoma from the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University who were confirmed by pathology were retrospectively analyzed between January 2006 and December 2015.All the ultrasound and clinical pathologic features of relevant information were collected to observe the pathological changes of ultrasonographic performance. Results: Ultrasonic image can be divided into mass type and diffuse typpe .There were 10 cases of diffuse type (10/24, 41.7%), 14 cases of mass type (14/24, 58.3%) .Pathology was given priority to diffuse large B lymphoma .Sonographic findings of different classification were based on pathological histology, which were related with the lymphoma cells infiltrating location, degree, scope and different stages of progression.Mass type and diffuse type were different in the lesion range comparison.Secondary and primary breast lymphoma in ultrasound performance type had no significant difference. There were differences in the lesion distribution comparison. Conclusion: Breast lymphoma have different sonographic features based on histological features.

[MRI features of ventricular system tuberculosis]

OBJECTIVE

To study the MRI features of ventricular system tuberculosis.

METHODS

Nineteen patients with ventricular system tuberculosis in our hospital from Mar. 2009 to Sep. 2014 were retrospectively identified. Their clinical features and cranial MRI characteristics were reviewed.

RESULTS

There were 13 males and 6 females, aged from 15-81 years(mean 37±16). Eight patients had intraventricular tuberculosis, with 5 long striped or irregular shaped intraventricular tuberculosis and 3 with ventricular tuberculoma. Six patients had tubercular ependymitis and 5 had intraventricular tuberculosis along with tubercular ependymitis. The lesions of 14 patients were in the lateral ventricle; 13 in occipital or temporal horn of lateral ventricle, 9 complicated by tubercular meningitis, and 10 complicated by brain tuberculoma. The lesion of 5 patients were in the fourth ventricle, 5 in the postmedian of the fourth ventricle, 5 complicated by tubercular meningitis and 4 complicated by hydrocephalus. There were 4 cases with ring-enhancement and 15 with heterogeneous enhancement. Ten cases were complicated by peripheral edema.

CONCLUSIONS

The diagnosis of ventricle system tuberculosis is difficult due to its low incidence. The site, cranial MRI characteristics, the patterns of enhancement and complications have certain specificity and are useful in the diagnosis of ventricular system tuberculosis.

Combined Anti-CD154/CTLA4Ig Costimulation Blockade-Based Therapy Induces Donor-Specific Tolerance to Vascularized Osteomyocutaneous Allografts

Tolerance induction by means of costimulation blockade has been successfully applied in solid organ transplantation; however, its efficacy in vascularized composite allotransplantation, containing a vascularized bone marrow component and thus a constant source of donor-derived stem cells, remains poorly explored. In this study, osteomyocutaneous allografts (alloOMCs) from Balb/c (H2(d) ) mice were transplanted into C57BL/6 (H2(b) ) recipients. Immunosuppression consisted of 1 mg anti-CD154 on day 0, 0.5 mg CTLA4Ig on day 2 and rapamycin (RPM; 3 mg/kg per day from days 0-7, then every other day for 3 weeks). Long-term allograft survival, donor-specific tolerance and donor-recipient cell trafficking were evaluated. Treatment with costimulation blockade plus RPM resulted in long-term graft survival (>120 days) of alloOMC in 12 of 15 recipients compared with untreated controls (median survival time [MST] ≈10.2 ± 0.8 days), RPM alone (MST ≈33 ± 5.5 days) and costimulation blockade alone (MST ≈45.8 ± 7.1 days). Donor-specific hyporesponsiveness in recipients with viable grafts was demonstrated in vitro. Evidence of donor-specific tolerance was further assessed in vivo by secondary donor-specific skin graft survival and third-party graft rejection. A significant increase of Foxp3(+) regulatory T cells was evident in tolerant animals. Donor cells populated peripheral blood, thymus, and both donor and recipient bone marrow. Consequently, combined anti-CD154/CTLA4Ig costimulation blockade-based therapy induces donor-specific tolerance in a stringent murine alloOMC transplant model.

High stability of electro-transport and magnetism against the A-site cation disorder in SrRuO3

It is known that the electro-transport and magnetism of perovskite alkaline-earth ruthenate oxides are sensitive to the lattice distortion associated with the A-site cation size. Orthorhombic CaRuO3 and cubic BaRuO3 exhibit distinctly different electro-transport and magnetic properties from orthorhombic SrRuO3. It has been suggested that SrRuO3 can be robust against some intrinsic/external perturbations but fragile against some others in terms of electro-transport and magnetism, and it is our motivation to explore such stability against the local site cation disorder. In this work, we prepare a set of SrRuO3-based samples with identical averaged A-site size but different A-site cation disorder (size mismatch) by Ca and Ba co-substitution of Sr. It is revealed that the electro-transport and magnetism of SrRuO3 demonstrate relatively high stability against this A-site cation disorder, characterized by the relatively invariable electrical and magnetic properties in comparison with those of SrRuO3 itself. A simple electro-transport network model is proposed to explain quantitatively the measured behaviors. The present work suggests that SrRuO3 as an itinerant electron ferromagnetic metal possesses relatively high robustness against local lattice distortion and cation occupation disorder.

Honokiol suppresses TNF-α-induced neutrophil adhesion on cerebral endothelial cells by disrupting polyubiquitination and degradation of IκBα

Adhesion molecules expressed on cerebral endothelial cells (ECs) mediate leukocyte recruitment and play a significant role in cerebral inflammation. Increased levels of adhesion molecules on the EC surface induce leukocyte infiltration into inflammatory areas and are thus hallmarkers of inflammation. Honokiol, isolated from the Chinese medicinal herb Magnolia officinalis, has various pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory effects, yet the nature of honokiol targeting molecules remains to be revealed. Here, we investigated the inhibitory effect of honokiol on neutrophil adhesion and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) expression, which underlie its molecular target, and mechanisms for inactivating nuclear factor κ enhancer binding protein (NF-κB) in mouse cerebral ECs. Honokiol inhibited tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-induced neutrophil adhesion and VCAM-1 gene expression in cerebral ECs. The inflammatory transcription factor NF-κB was downregulated by honokiol. Honokiol significantly blocked TNF-α-induced NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation and degradation of the proteasome-dependent inhibitor of NF-κB α (IκBα). From docking model prediction, honokiol directly targeted the ubiquitin-ubiquitin interface of Lys48-linked polychains. Moreover, honokiol prevented the TNF-α-induced Lys48-linked polyubiquitination, including IκBα-polyubiquitin interaction. Honokiol has protective anti-inflammatory effects on TNF-α-induced neutrophil adhesion and VCAM-1 gene expression in cerebral ECs, at least in part by directly inhibiting ubiquitination-mediated IκBα degradation and then preventing NF-κB nuclear translocation.

[A brief introduction to the disease-syndrome names in bamboo slips of Qin Dynasty]

There are plenty of names of disease-syndrome from the four kinds of unearthed Qin bamboo slips, namely Fangmatan, Shuihudi, Zhoujiatai, and Liye. Altogether, these names number to 85. According to statistics, nomenclature of 34 disease-syndromes are derived from the location of the lesion, 8 from symptoms, 1 from etiology, 12 from location of lesion plus symptom, 3 from location plus etiology, and 25 are for special diseases. Through comparison of these names, with those from oracle bones and Han bamboo slips, Prescriptions for Hundred Kinds of Disease, it is summarized that, as time passes, nomenclature simply named by the location of the lesion was gradually reduced, and named by etiology and special diseases gradually increased. To some extent, it reflects the historical process of knowledge of the disease gradually deepened in ancient times.

[Variation of long-chain 3-hydroxyacyl CoA dehydrogenase DNA methylated modification and correlation with gene mRNA expression of early-onset preeclampsia, HELLP syndrome and antiphospholipid syndrome in trophoblast cells of placenta]

OBJECTIVE

By detecting the DNA methylation and gene expression of long-chain 3-hydroxyacyl CoA dehydrogenase(LCHAD)in trophoblast cells, analyze the correlation of DNA methylation and gene expression in early-onset preeclampsia(EPE), hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets(HELLP)syndrome and antiphospholipid syndrome(APS), to investigate the molecular basis of long-chain fatty acid oxidation changes in different preeclampsia and pathological pregnancy.

METHODS

Primary human cytotrophoblast cells and HTR8/Svneo cells were treated with serum from patients with EPE(14 cases), HELLP(12 cases), APS(14 cases), and normal pregnant women(NP, 14 cases). The methylation level of LCHAD gene promoter region through the MassARRAY platform and mRNA expression level by real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR technique were conducted.

RESULTS

(1)Cytosine-phosphate-guanine(CpG)sites in human LCHAD DNA promoter region: CpG sites were detected in the range of 558 bp before LCHAD gene transcription start site, the detected CpG sites were 11 sites including 8 single sites and 3 complex sites. The position of these sites were at-984,-960,-899,-853,-811,-796,-774,-727,-615,-595,-579 respectively.(2)The sites of-899,-853,-615 and-595 showed increased methylation level in EPE and HELLP groups. The methylation level at-899,-853 and-615 sites in EPE and HELLP groups were significantly higher than those in NP group(P<0.01). The methylation level at-853 site was higher in EPE group than that in HELLP group(P<0.05). The-595 site showed the unmethylated in EPE, HELLP and APS groups. There were significantly difference between the 3 groups and EPE group(P<0.01).(3)The gene expression of LCHAD mRNA in EPE(0.048±0.005), HELLP(0.045±0.006)and APS(0.044±0.004)groups were significantly lower than NP group(0.076±0.009; P<0.01).(4)The correlation of methylation level and gene expression in all groups: the methylation level at-899,-853,-727,-615 and-579 sites were negatively correlated with gene mRNA expression in EPE group(P<0.05). The methylation level at-899,-853 and-615 sites were negatively correlated with gene mRNA expression in HELLP group(P< 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The variation of LCHAD DNA methylation of trophoblast cells are found among EPE, HELLP syndrome and APS. The different correlation of LCHAD DNA methylation and gene expression are different in pathological groups. LCHAD DNA methylation of EPE and HELLP syndrome were significantly increased and negatively correlated with LCHAD gene mRNA expression. These results further revealed the molecular basis of long-chain fatty acid oxidation in different preeclampsia and pathological pregnancy.

[One case of salivary gland acinar cell carcinoma]

Salivary gland acinar cell carcinoma is a rare malignancy. The main clinical manifestations of local painless mass slowly increasing, quality and tough or real, even poor activity limitations fixed part. Imaging lack of specificity, often solid lesions. Because salivary gland acinar cell carcinoma of the breast and Salivary gland origin mammary secretory carcinoma samples have similar structural characteristics, difficulties in clinical diagnosis in differentiating between the two, the final result depends on pathology diagnosis.

[Clinical characteristics and prognosis of concurrent positive t(14; 18) and myc gene rearrangement in diffuse large B cell lymphoma]

OBJECTIVE

To study the incidence of positive t(14; 18) and myc gene rearrangement, and the clinical features and prognosis of concurrent positive t(14; 18) and myc gene rearrangement "double-hit lymphoma" (DHL) in diffuse large B cell lymphoma.

METHODS

The positive t(14; 18) and myc gene rearrangement in 106 cases of DLBCL were analyzed using interphase fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) technique. The expression of myc and bcl-2 proteins was determined by immunohistochemistry. The relationship of positive t(14; 18) and myc gene rearrangement with clinical features, pathogenesis and prognosis for the patients was analyzed. SPSS 16.0 software was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Among the 106 cases, there were 27 (25.5%) cases with positive t(14; 18) and 13 (12.3%) cases with myc gene rearrangement, and 7 cases (6.6%) of DLBCL with concurrent t(14; 18)-positive and myc gene rearrangement. A relationship was observed between positive t(14; 18) and myc gene rearrangement (P=0.019). The follow-up data showed that the 7 DHL patients were in age of 52-84 years, the International Prognostic Index (IPI) scores were 3 in two cases, 4 in four cases and 5 in one case, and the ECOG scores were 3 in all the 7 cases. Four patients had bone marrow involvement and were combined with leukemia. The survival time ranged from 0.5 to 6 months, with a median survival of 4 months. The univariate analysis showed that B symptom, Ann Arbor stage, ECOG score, LDH level, IPI score, immunophenotype, bcl-2 protein expression, myc protein expression, and myc gene rearrangement were all associated with poor prognosis (P<0.05 for all). The multivariate analysis using a COX proportional hazard model confirmed that ECOG score, bcl-2 protein expression, myc protein expression, myc gene rearrangement, and immunophenotype were independent prognostic factors affecting survival (P<0.05 for all), among them, the myc gene rearrangement was the strongest prognostic factor (OR=4.337, P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

"Double-hit" DLBCL is rare and can be mainly identified only by molecular detection. Perhaps positive t(14; 18) and myc gene rearrangement play concurrent role in its "double-hit" pathogenesis. DHL are highly invasive, and most of DHL patients have poor prognosis. Further studies of larger case number are required to determine the pathologic features and the therapeutic strategy of this subgroup.

[Airway metal stents removal by rigid bronchoscopy]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the techniques and related complication management of airway metal stents removal with rigid bronchoscope under general anesthesia.

METHODS

We reviewed 20 patients who had received rigid bronchoscopic stents removal under general anesthesia from Jan. 2008 to Jan. 2015. The clinical data were analyzed retrospectively. The indications for stents removal and potential difficulties encountered, the relationship between techniques and related complications of stents removal were discussed and analyzed, and our experiences were summarized.

RESULTS

The indications for airway metal stents removal included stent migration, fracture, and granulation related in-stent restenosis. Nineteen airway metal stents were removed from 20 patients, which included 9 covered metal stents, 6 without fragmentation and 3 with fragmentation. The average duration of stenting before removal was (7.4±6.9)months (5 days-24 months). Of the 11 uncovered metal stents, which had stayed in the airway for (10.2±7.0) months (20 days-24 months), 10 were removed successfully and 1 failed. Three of them were removed intact and 7 fragmented. Complications were as follows: airway bleeding requiring management (n=11), airway collapse (n=6), re-obstruction requiring temporary stent placement (n=5), postoperative tracheal intubation (n=1), mucosal tear with tracheoesophageal fistula (n=1), airway firing (n=1), airway obstruction, and death as a result of attempted stent removal (n=1).

CONCLUSIONS

Airway metal stent removal is a high-risk operation. Indications for stents removal should be evaluated thoroughly and all the advantages and disadvantages should be evaluated. Once stent removal is decided, the type of the metal stent, the position of the stent implanted, the duration of stenting, and the extent of the stent embedded in granulation tissue should be carefully considered to assess the difficulty of the procedure. Dissection of the stent from the airway wall before extracting it can reduce complications such as airway bleeding, mucosal tear and airway obstruction. At the same time, a standby stent is needed to deal with possible airway collapse after stent removal. Removal of metal airway stents should only be performed by a proficient and experienced interventional pulmonology team to ensure successful operation and to improve patient safety.

Two-dimensional Zn(II) and one-dimensional Co(II) coordination polymers based on benzene-1,4-dicarboxylate and pyridine ligands

Coordination polymers constructed from metal ions and organic ligands have attracted considerable attention owing to their diverse structural topologies and potential applications. Ligands containing carboxylate groups are among the most extensively studied because of their versatile coordination modes. Reactions of benzene-1,4-dicarboxylic acid (H2BDC) and pyridine (py) with Zn(II) or Co(II) yielded two new coordination polymers, namely, poly[(μ4-benzene-1,4-dicarboxylato-κ(4)O:O':O'':O''')(pyridine-κN)zinc(II)], [Zn(C8H4O2)(C5H5N)]n, (I), and catena-poly[aqua(μ3-benzene-1,4-dicarboxylato-κ(3)O:O':O'')bis(pyridine-κN)cobalt(II)], [Co(C8H4O2)(C5H5N)2(H2O)]n, (II). In compound (I), the Zn(II) cation is five-coordinated by four carboxylate O atoms from four BDC(2-) ligands and one pyridine N atom in a distorted square-pyramidal coordination geometry. Four carboxylate groups bridge two Zn(II) ions to form centrosymmetric paddle-wheel-like Zn2(μ2-COO)4 units, which are linked by the benzene rings of the BDC(2-) ligands to generate a two-dimensional layered structure. The two-dimensional layer is extended into a three-dimensional supramolecular structure with the help of π-π stacking interactions between the aromatic rings. Compound (II) has a one-dimensional double-chain structure based on Co2(μ2-COO)2 units. The Co(II) cations are bridged by BDC(2-) ligands and are octahedrally coordinated by three carboxylate O atoms from three BDC(2-) ligands, one water O atom and two pyridine N atoms. Interchain O-H...O hydrogen-bonding interactions link these chains to form a three-dimensional supramolecular architecture.

[On Annotation on the Names and Syndromes of Ancient Diseases, with textual research on"dian (depressive psychosis)","kuang (manic psychosis)", and"xian (epilepsy)"]

The book Gu dai ji bing ming hou shu yi (Annotation on the Names and Syndromes of Ancient Diseases) written by Yu Yunxiu holds that dian can be divided into two conditions, namely, epilepsy and manic psychosis. By analysis on related materials in ancient lexicographical works, ancient medical books and other ancient books, it reveals that dian and kuang are two very different diseases, but dian and xian refer to the same conditions. Dian was the special name of a disease, while xian was a stage of syndrome of that disease with typical symptoms. Dian and xian might also refer to two different types of that disease. Dian always refers to epilepsy from its very beginning besides cephalopathy, including both mental symptom and physical symptom.