[Application of 128 slice spiral CT 3D reconstruction in dorsum narrow osteotomy]

Objective:To explore the value of 128 slice spiral CT 3D reconstruction in dorsum narrow osteotomy.Method:Twenty cases of nasolacrimal duct injury patients were collected from January 2014 to June 2015 as observation group;and other 20 cases healthy adults were for control group.Maximum anteroposterior diameter and left-right diameter of lacrimal sac,distance of top and bottom of lacrimal sac,the nasolacrimal duct length,nasolacrimal duct wall thickness,nasofrontal angleand the distance of middle turbinate to the top and bottom of the lacrimal sac were analyzed by 128 slice spiral CT 3D reconstruction.Result:In the observation group,the duct length was(11.58±11.58)mm,and nasolacrimal duct wall thickness was(1.25±0.36)mm.Maximum anteroposterior diameter of lacrimal sac was(0.89±0.14)cm,and left-right diameter of lacrimal sac was(0.66±0.06)cm.The distance of top and bottom of lacrimal sac was(1.85±0.04)cm.All the parameters were statistically significant compared with the control group(P<0.05).Conclusion:The application of 128 slice spiral CT 3D reconstruction in dorsum narrow osteotomy of lacrimal duct system,not only could efficiently prevent postoperative lacrimal duct system damage,but also has important reference value in the diagnosis of postoperative lacrimal duct system damage.

High HIV incidence epidemic among men who have sex with men in china: results from a multi-site cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Recent upsurge of new HIV infections among men who have sex with men (MSM) is a major concern in China. Paucity of national-level information regarding the burden and predictors of this progressive epidemic of new infections called for a multi-centric, timely and comprehensive investigation.

METHODS

Mixed methods were used to recruit MSM from seven cities in China between 2012 and 2013. Recent and established HIV infections were estimated by Western Blot and BED HIV-1 capture enzyme immunoassay. Syphilis and herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2) were also tested.

RESULTS

A total of 4496 eligible MSM were recruited. The majority was aged ≤35 years (77.5 %), migrants (60.3 %), never married (69.8 %), and played receptive role in anal sex (70.5 %). The HIV prevalence was 9.9 %, and 41.9 % were recently infected, with sensitivity/specificity adjusted HIV incidence of 8.9 (95 % CI: 7.6-10.2)/100 Person-Years. The prevalence of history HSV-2 and syphilis were 12.5 % and 8.5 %, respectively. Recent HIV infection was associated with having multiple male partners (aOR = 1.4, 95 % CI 1.1-1.9), recreational drug use (aOR = 2.2, 95 % CI 1.6-3.0), anal bleeding (aOR = 2.1, 95 % CI 1.4-3.0), syphilis infection (aOR = 2.8, 95 % CI 1.9-4.3) and history HSV-2 infection (aOR = 2.3, 95 % CI 1.5-3.3).

CONCLUSION

High rate of recent HIV infection is potentially resulting in progressive deterioration of the overall HIV epidemic among MSM in China. Targeted interventions to address high-risk MSM including those having multiple partners, history of recreational drug use and syphilis or HSV-2 infection seemed to be the need of the hour.

Observation of an Anomalous Line Shape of the η^{'}π^{+}π^{-} Mass Spectrum near the pp[over ¯] Mass Threshold in J/ψ→γη^{'}π^{+}π^{-}

Using 1.09×10^{9} J/ψ events collected by the BESIII experiment in 2012, we study the J/ψ→γη^{'}π^{+}π^{-} process and observe a significant abrupt change in the slope of the η^{'}π^{+}π^{-} invariant mass distribution at the proton-antiproton (pp[over ¯]) mass threshold. We use two models to characterize the η^{'}π^{+}π^{-} line shape around 1.85  GeV/c^{2}: one that explicitly incorporates the opening of a decay threshold in the mass spectrum (Flatté formula), and another that is the coherent sum of two resonant amplitudes. Both fits show almost equally good agreement with data, and suggest the existence of either a broad state around 1.85  GeV/c^{2} with strong couplings to the pp[over ¯] final states or a narrow state just below the pp[over ¯] mass threshold. Although we cannot distinguish between the fits, either one supports the existence of a pp[over ¯] moleculelike state or bound state with greater than 7σ significance.

Observation of h_{c} Radiative Decay h_{c}→γη^{'} and Evidence for h_{c}→γη

A search for radiative decays of the P-wave spin singlet charmonium resonance h_{c} is performed based on 4.48×10^{8} ψ^{'} events collected with the BESIII detector operating at the BEPCII storage ring. Events of the reaction channels h_{c}→γη^{'} and γη are observed with a statistical significance of 8.4σ and 4.0σ, respectively, for the first time. The branching fractions of h_{c}→γη^{'} and h_{c}→γη are measured to be B(h_{c}→γη^{'})=(1.52±0.27±0.29)×10^{-3} and B(h_{c}→γη)=(4.7±1.5±1.4)×10^{-4}, respectively, where the first errors are statistical and the second are systematic uncertainties.

HIV incidence and associated risk factors in men who have sex with men in Mainland China: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: The national annually reported proportion of men who have sex with men (MSM) among people living with HIV (PLWH) is growing in China. To better inform the public health sector how to improve HIV prevention strategies, it is necessary to understand the current level of HIV incidence and its correlates. Methods: Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science and three major Chinese electronic publication databases (http://qikan.cqvip.com/, http://g.wanfangdata.com.cn/, http://www.cnki.net/, respectively) were searched for studies reporting HIV incidence. Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) 2.0 statistical software (Biostat, Inc. Englewood, NJ, USA) was used to calculate the pooled HIV incidence and perform subgroup-analysis to find correlates for HIV seroconversion in Chinese MSM. Random effects modelling was then conducted. Results: Twenty-five eligible studies were included in this meta-analysis. The calculated pooled HIV incidence was 5.61/100 person years (PY), with an increasing trend over time (3.24/100PY, 5.29/100PY, 5.50/100PY in 2005-2008, 2009-2011, 2012-2014 respectively, χ2 test for trend P = 0.04). Subgroup analyses indicated that age <25 years (rate ratio (RR) = 1.85), junior college education and below (RR = 1.87), having ≥ 2 male sexual partners in past 6 months (RR = 2.50), baseline syphilis infection (RR = 2.99), homosexual orientation (RR = 1.91), preferred bottom/versatile roles in anal sexual intercourse (RR = 2.33), and having unprotected anal intercourse in the past 6 months (RR = 2.16) significantly increased the risk for HIV seroconversion (each P < 0.05). Uncircumcised MSM had a marginal statistically significant higher HIV incidence (RR = 3.35, P = 0.051). Conclusion: HIV incidence is still alarmingly high among Chinese MSM. Stronger HIV intervention strategies should be implemented, in particular targeting young, less educated and syphilis-infected MSM.

Observation of the Singly Cabibbo-Suppressed Decay D^{+}→ωπ^{+} and Evidence for D^{0}→ωπ^{0}

Based on 2.93  fb^{-1} e^{+}e^{-} collision data taken at center-of-mass energy of 3.773 GeV by the BESIII detector, we report searches for the singly Cabibbo-suppressed decays D^{+}→ωπ^{+} and D^{0}→ωπ^{0}. A double tag technique is used to measure the absolute branching fractions B(D^{+}→ωπ^{+})=(2.79±0.57±0.16)×10^{-4} and B(D^{0}→ωπ^{0})=(1.17±0.34±0.07)×10^{-4}, with statistical significances of 5.5σ and 4.1σ, where the first and second uncertainties are statistical and systematic, respectively.

Apodized waveguide arrays induced by photorefractive nonlinear surface waves

A new type of nonlinear waveguides, photorefractive surface optical waveguides is suggested, which can be induced by photorefractive surface waves on the boundary of photorefractive crystal. The disturbed refractive index distribution of such waveguides behaves as a periodic lattice with apodized envelope, thus we call them photorefractive surface apodized waveguide arrays. Moreover, the dispersion relation and corresponding modes are analyzed. It is very interesting that the dispersion curves of index-guided modes and Bragg-guided modes couple and intertwine with each other, and anti-crossings instead of crossings between them hence generate some mini-gaps. Moreover there exists a type of extraordinary modes constituted by the splice of index-guided modes and Bragg-guided modes.

Observation of a Neutral Structure near the DD[over ¯]^{*} Mass Threshold in e^{+}e^{-}→(DD[over ¯]^{*})^{0}π^{0} at sqrt[s]=4.226 and 4.257 GeV

A neutral structure in the DD[over ¯]^{*} system around the DD[over ¯]^{*} mass threshold is observed with a statistical significance greater than 10σ in the processes e^{+}e^{-}→D^{+}D^{*-}π^{0}+c.c. and e^{+}e^{-}→D^{0}D[over ¯]^{*0}π^{0}+c.c. at sqrt[s]=4.226 and 4.257 GeV in the BESIII experiment. The structure is denoted as Z_{c}(3885)^{0}. Assuming the presence of a resonance, its pole mass and width are determined to be [3885.7_{-5.7}^{+4.3}(stat)±8.4(syst)]  MeV/c^{2} and [35_{-12}^{+11}(stat)±15(syst)]  MeV, respectively. The Born cross sections are measured to be σ[e^{+}e^{-}→Z_{c}(3885)^{0}π^{0},Z_{c}(3885)^{0}→DD[over ¯]^{*}]=[77±13(stat)±17(syst)]  pb at 4.226 GeV and [47±9(stat)±10(syst)]  pb at 4.257 GeV. The ratio of decay rates B[Z_{c}(3885)^{0}→D^{+}D^{*-}+c.c.]/B[Z_{c}(3885)^{0}→D^{0}D[over ¯]^{*0}+c.c.] is determined to be 0.96±0.18(stat)±0.12(syst), consistent with no isospin violation in the process, Z_{c}(3885)^{0}→DD[over ¯]^{*}.

The biological characteristics of predominant strains of HIV-1 genotype: modeling of HIV-1 infection among men who have sex with men

To investigate the molecular subtypes of prevalent HIV-1 strains and characterize the genetics of dominant strains among men who have sex with men. Molecular epidemiology surveys in this study concentrated on the prevalent HIV-1 strains in Liaoning province by year. 229 adult patients infected with HIV-1 and part of a high-risk group of men who have sex with men were recruited. Reverse transcription and nested PCR amplification were performed. Sequencing reactions were conducted and edited, followed by codon-based alignment. NJ phylogenetic tree analyses detected two distinct CRF01_AE phylogenetic clusters, designated clusters 1 and 2. Clusters 1 and 2 accounted for 12.8% and 84.2% of sequences in the pol gene and 17.6% and 73.1% of sequences in the env gene, respectively. Another six samples were distributed on other phylogenetic clusters. Cluster 1 increased significantly from 5.6% to 20.0%, but cluster 2 decreased from 87.5% to 80.0%. Genetic distance analysis indicated that CRF01_AE cluster 1 in Liaoning was homologous to epidemic CRF01_AE strains, but CRF01_AE cluster 2 was different from other scattered strains. Additionally, significant differences were found in tetra-peptide motifs at the tip of V3 loop between cluster 1 and 2; however, differences in coreceptor usage were not detected. This study shows that subtype CRF01_AE strain may be the most prevalent epidemic strain in the men who have sex with men. Genetic characteristics of the subtype CRF01_AE cluster strain in Liaoning showed homology to the prevalent strains of men who have sex with men in other parts of China.

Focal varying microlens array

We report a novel microlens array with different curvature unit lenses (MLADC) fabricated with femtosecond laser direct writing technology. The MLADC consisted of hexagonal hyperboloid unit microlenses, which have different heights and curvatures from others. The unique optical performance of imaging and focusing capability were demonstrated. An object was imaged at different positions from the MLADC by unit lenses, as the ability of adjusting the curvature of the image plane for overall MLADC. In addition, the experiment had a good agreement with simulation results, which was based on the analysis of the finite element method. The novel MLADC will have important applications in improving the performance of optical systems, especially in field curvature correction and real-time three-dimensional imaging.

Safety and immunogenicity of a novel recombinant adenovirus type-5 vector-based Ebola vaccine in healthy adults in China: preliminary report of a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 1 trial

BACKGROUND

Up to now, all tested Ebola virus vaccines have been based on the virus strain from the Zaire outbreak in 1976. We aimed to assess the safety and immunogenicity of a novel recombinant adenovirus type-5 vector-based Ebola vaccine expressing the glycoprotein of the 2014 epidemic strain.

METHODS

We did this randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 1 clinical trial at one site in Taizhou County, Jiangsu Province, China. Healthy adults (aged 18-60 years) were sequentially enrolled and randomly assigned (2:1), by computer-generated block randomisation (block size of six), to receive placebo, low-dose adenovirus type-5 vector-based Ebola vaccine, or high-dose vaccine. Randomisation was pre-stratified by dose group. All participants, investigators, and laboratory staff were masked to treatment allocation. The primary safety endpoint was occurrence of solicited adverse reactions within 7 days of vaccination. The primary immunogenicity endpoints were glycoprotein-specific antibody titres and T-cell responses at day 28 after the vaccination. Analysis was by intention to treat. The study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02326194.

FINDINGS

Between Dec 28, 2014, and Jan 9, 2015, 120 participants were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive placebo (n=40), low-dose vaccine (n=40), or high-dose vaccine. Participants were followed up for 28 days. Overall, 82 (68%) participants reported at least one solicited adverse reaction within 7 days of vaccination (n=19 in the placebo group vs n=27 in the low-dose group vs n=36 in the high-dose group; p=0·0002). The most common reaction was mild pain at the injection site, which was reported in eight (20%) participants in the placebo group, 14 (35%) participants in the low-dose group, and 29 (73%) participants in the high-dose vaccine group (p<0·0001). We recorded no statistical differences in other adverse reactions and laboratory tests across groups. Glycoprotein-specific antibody titres were significantly increased in participants in the low-dose and high-dose vaccine groups at both day 14 (geometric mean titre 421·4 [95% CI 249·7-711·3] and 820·5 [598·9-1124·0], respectively; p<0·0001) and day 28 (682·7 [424·3-1098·5] and 1305·7 [970·1-1757·2], respectively; p<0·0001). T-cell responses peaked at day 14 at a median of 465·0 spot-forming cells (IQR 180·0-1202·5) in participants in the low-dose group and 765·0 cells (400·0-1460·0) in those in the high-dose group. 21 (18%) participants had mild fever (n=9 in the placebo group, n=6 in the low-dose group, and n=6 in the high-dose group). No serious adverse events were recorded.

INTERPRETATION

Our findings show that the high-dose vaccine is safe and robustly immunogenic. One shot of the high-dose vaccine could mount glycoprotein-specific humoral and T-cell response against Ebola virus in 14 days.

FUNDING

China National Science and Technology, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, and Tianjin CanSino Biotechnology.

Vaginal douching and association with sexually transmitted infections among female sex workers in a prefecture of Yunnan Province, China

Vaginal douching is a common practice and has been hypothesised to increase a woman's risk for human of contracting HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Our objective was to assess the prevalence of douching and its association with STIs, genital symptoms and HIV/STI knowledge among female sex workers (FSWs). We conducted a cross-sectional study of 837 FSWs with interviews and laboratory tests for HIV/STIs in a prefecture of Yunnan Province in southern China. Vaginal douching was reported by 84% of the women. We found a higher prevalence of vaginal douching practice among FSWs of Han ethnicity, and who were single or cohabitating. Douching was also significantly more common among more educated FSWs and those with greater knowledge of HIV/STIs, and as well as in FSWs who had experienced clinical symptoms in the previous 12 months. Douching was linked to higher risks of HIV (adjusted odds ratio = 2.29; 95% confidence interval 1.01-5.23) and herpes simplex virus type 2 infections (adjusted odds ratio = 2.18; 95% confidence interval 1.46-3.24) after adjusting for confounding factors. Medical professionals and public health workers should correct women's misconception about the effectiveness of douching and discourage women from douching through educational activities. More prospective studies among FSWs are urgently required to identify the relationship between vaginal douching and HIV/STIs.

Prevalence and correlates of Trichomonas vaginalis infection among female sex workers in a city in Yunnan Province, China

Sexual transmission is the fastest growing route of HIV transmission in China, and Trichomonas vaginalis(TV) can facilitate HIV transmission and acquisition. Our goal was to determine the prevalence and correlates of TV infection among female sex workers (FSWs). This cross-sectional study was conducted in a city of Yunnan Province in southern China, with confidential face-to-face interviews and laboratory tests for TV (wet mount) and other sexually transmitted infections. A total of 734 FSWs participated in the study. The prevalence of TV was 9.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 7.02-11.30). In multivariate analyses, adjusted odds ratios of TV infection were 3.0 (95% CI 1.47-6.01) for herpes simplex virus type 2 seropositive, 2.4 (95% CI 1.37-4.14) for Chlamydia trachomatis infection, 2.6 (95% CI 1.30-5.31) for genital ulcer, 1.9 (95% CI 1.11-3.30) for starting age in commercial sex <20 years, and 0.5 (95% CI 0.27-0.87) for vaginal douching. We found a relatively high prevalence of TV infection among FSWs in Yunnan Province. A range of control strategies that include TV screening are recommended among FSWs, which could contribute significantly to the disruption of transmission by the provision of immediate treatment.

Continuous-wave operation up to 20 °C of deep-ridge npn-InGaAsP/InP multiple quantum well transistor laser emitting at 1.5-μm wavelength

We report continuous-wave (CW) operation up to 20 °C of 1.5-μm wavelength npn-InGaAsP/InP multiple quantum well (MQW) transistor laser (TL) with a deep-ridge structure. With CW laser emission, the common emitter current gain of the device can be over 3.5, which is significantly larger than those of the previously reported long wavelength TLs. It is found that at low base current, the laser operation occurs on the first excited state of the MQWs. At high base current, however, the device shows stimulated emissions on the ground state transition. The trend is contrary to what has been observed in the GaAs based TLs and is explained by the change of carrier flow at different base currents.

First-to-patent does not predict first- or best-in-class: analysis of approved small molecule vs. biologic drugs

The biopharmaceutical enterprise continues to analyze, refine, and identify key strategic factors predicting success of innovative therapeutic advances to address important unmet medical needs. A key comparison has focused on the relative benefits of the novel mechanism of a first-in-class drug vs. the superior properties that differentiate improved follow-on drugs (best-in-class). A corollary question to first-in-class vs. best-in-class is the impact of patent timing. Surprisingly, first-to-patent does not predict first- or best-in-class.

Multidrug resistance gene and its relationship to ulcerative colitis and immune status of ulcerative colitis

We examined the relationship among the multidrug resistance (MDR1) gene product P-glycoprotein (P-gp), ulcerative colitis, and immune status under ulcerative colitis. MDR1 P-gp expression and interleukin-8 levels in ulcerative colitis were determined using immunohistochemistry and a double-antibody sandwich avidin-biotin complex-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. Nitric oxide content and nitric oxide synthase activity in the colonic mucosa were determined using a colorimetric method; CD4(+) and CD25(+) T cell subset percentages in the peripheral blood were determined by flow cytometry. The positive expression rate of P-gp in patients with ulcerative colitis (17.4%) was significantly lower than that in the control group (31.4%). The expression rate decreased to 10.1, 9.2, and 8.3% after 12, 18, and 24 months of treatment, respectively, which were significantly lower than the expression rate before treatment (17.4%). P-gp expression levels during the remission phase and active phase of ulcerative colitis were 15.2 and 17.1%, respectively, which were significantly lower than that in normal controls (31.4%). Compared with P-gp-negative patients, nitric oxide content, nitric oxide synthase activity, and interleukin-8 levels were significantly higher in P-gp-positive patients with moderately active, severely active, early onset, chronic relapsing, chronic persistent, and acute fulminant ulcerative colitis. CD4(+) and CD25(+) T cell subsets were significantly lower in the peripheral blood of patients with severely active and acute fulminant ulcerative colitis than in control subjects. Expression of the multidrug resistance gene and its product P-gp was observed in normal colon tissues and may be closely related to ulcerative colitis.

Recreational drug use and risks of HIV and sexually transmitted infections among Chinese men who have sex with men: Mediation through multiple sexual partnerships

Background

Recreational drug use (RDU) may result in sexual disinhibition and higher risk for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China. We assessed whether RDU was associated with HIV, syphilis, and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) within the context of multiple sexual partnerships and unprotected sex.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study among sexually-active MSM in six Chinese cities (Kunming, Jinan, Changsha, Zhengzhou, Nanjing, and Shanghai) in 2012–2013. We interviewed participants regarding RDU and sexual activity and drew blood for HIV, syphilis, and HSV-2. We fit multiple logistic regression models to assess associations of drug use and HIV, syphilis and HSV-2 infections, controlling for number of sexual partners and unprotected sex.

Results

Of 3830 participants, 28% reported ever using ≥1 of these drugs in the past 6 months: popper (alkyl nitrites), ecstasy, ice (methamphetamine), amphetamine, tramadol, and ketamine. In the past six months, 62% of MSM reported ≥2 sexual partners and 76% did not use condoms at last sexual encounter. HIV, syphilis and HSV-2 prevalences were 9.2%, 12.2%, and 10.3%, respectively.RDU was associated with HIV infection (aOR = 1.67; 95% CI, 1.31-2.13). Men with RDU were more likely to report multiple sexual partners (OR = 1.69; 95% CI, 1.44-1.98) and unprotected sex (aOR = 1.25; 95% CI, 1.05-1.49). The RDU-HIV association persisted (aOR = 1.58; 95% CI = 1.23-2.02) after adjusting for numbers of partners.

Conclusions

RDU was associated with multiple sexual partnerships, unprotected sex, and HIV among Chinese MSM. It is plausible that RDU is a driver of increased sexual/HIV risk and/or may be an associated behavior with sexually risky lifestyles. Community engagement is needed.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12879-014-0642-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Transoral approach for revision surgery of os odontoideum with atlantoaxial dislocation

Revision surgery for os odontoideum with irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation with a transoral approach is not commonly seen. Typically, management of this type of atlantoaxial dislocation is through posterior fixation and fusion or transoral decompression and posterior fusion. This report describes revision surgery in a patient with os odontoideum who was treated with a transoral approach. A 50-year-old man was diagnosed with os odontoideum and atlantoaxial dislocation in 2007 and was treated surgically with posterior occipitocervical internal fixation and fusion. In 2012, he had recurrence of neck pain and numbness of the limbs. Neurologic function was grade D according to the standard neurologic classification of spinal cord injury from the American Spinal Injury Association. Because this was a revision surgery, the internal fixation implant was removed through a posterior approach and a transoral approach was used for release, reduction, internal fixation, and fusion. Two 6-mm cages filled with autogenous bone were introduced into the lateral mass spaces for bony fusion and distraction, and 2 cervical compressive mini-frames were used for fixation. Complete atlantoaxial reduction and decompression of the spinal cord were achieved. The patient reported improvement of symptoms after surgery. Movement of the extremities increased from grade III force to grade V, and neurologic status improved from American Spinal Injury Association grade D to grade E. A transoral approach for release, reduction, bony fusion, and fixation could be an effective procedure for the treatment of os odontoideum with irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation. It provides a new option for bony fusion and internal fixation of the atlantoaxial joint.

Common polymorphisms in the HIF-1α gene confer susceptibility to digestive cancer: a meta-analysis

Recent evidence suggests that common functional polymorphisms in the hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) gene may play an important role in the development and progression of digestive cancer, but individually published results are inconclusive. Our meta-analysis is aimed to derive a more precise estimation of the relationships between HIF-1α gene polymorphisms and digestive cancer risk. An extensive literature search for relevant studies was conducted on Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and CBM databases from their inception through May 1, 2013. This meta-analysis was performed using the STATA 12.0 software. The crude odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. Eight case-control studies were included with a total of 1276 digestive cancer patients and 3392 healthy controls. Our meta-analysis revealed that the A variant of HIF-1α G1790A polymorphism might be associated with increased risk of colorectal, esophageal, gastric, and liver cancers, especially among Asian populations. However, no statistically significant associations were found between HIF-1α C1772T polymorphism and susceptibility to digestive cancer. No publication bias was detected in this meta-analysis. The current meta-analysis suggests that the HIF-1α G1790A polymorphism may increase the risk of colorectal, esophageal, gastric, and liver cancers, especially among Asian populations.

Spinal gene expression profiling and pathways analysis of a CB2 agonist (MDA7)-targeted prevention of paclitaxel-induced neuropathy

AIMS

Patients receiving paclitaxel often develop peripheral neuropathies. We found that a novel selective cannabinoid CB2 receptor agonist (MDA7) prevents paclitaxel-induced mechanical allodynia in rats and mice. Here we investigated gene expression profiling in the lumbar spinal cord after 14-day treatment of MDA7 in paclitaxel animals and analyzed possible signaling pathways underlying the preventive effect of MDA7 on paclitaxel-induced neuropathy.

METHODS

Peripheral mechanical allodynia was induced in rats or mice receiving intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of paclitaxel at a dose of 1mg/kg daily for four consecutive days. MDA7 was administered at a dose of 15mg/kg 15min before paclitaxel and then continued daily for another 10days. Whole-genome gene expression profiling in the lumbar spinal cord of MDA7 and paclitaxel-treated rats was investigated using microarray analysis. The Ingenuity pathway analysis was performed to determine the potential relevant canonical pathways responsible for the effect of MDA7 on paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy.

RESULTS

We observed that the inflammatory molecular networks including tumor necrosis factor (TNF), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ), and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling are most relevant to the preventive effect of MDA7 on paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy. In addition, genes encoding molecules that are important in central sensitization such as glutamate transporters and N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor 2B (NMDAR2B), and neuro-immune-related genes such as neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS1), chemokine CX3CL1 (a mediator for microglial activation), toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), and leptin were differentially modulated by MDA7.

CONCLUSION

The preventive effect of MDA7 on paclitaxel-induced peripheral allodynia in rats may be associated with genes involved in signal pathways in central sensitization, microglial activation, and neuroinflammation in the spinal cord.

Resumption of menstruation and pituitary response to gonadotropin-releasing hormone in functional hypothalamic amenorrhea subjects undertaking estrogen replacement therapy

BACKGROUND

Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA) refers to a functional menstrual disorder with various causes and presentations. Recovery of menstrual cyclicity is common in long-term follow-up but the affecting factors remain unknown.

AIM

To explore factors affecting the menstrual resumption and to evaluate the pituitary response to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in FHA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty cases with FHA were recruited. All subjects were put on continuous 1 mg/day estradiol valerate orally and followed up monthly. Recovery was defined as the occurrence of at least three consecutive regular cycles. Responder referred to those who recovered within two years of therapy. Gonadotropin response to the 50 μg GnRH challenge was tested every three months.

RESULTS

Nineteen (63.3%) subjects recovered with a mean time to recovery of 26.8 months. Time to recovery was negatively correlated with body mass index (BMI) before and by amenorrhea. Twentyone cases had undertaken therapy for more than two years and 10 of them recovered. BMI before and by amenorrhea were negatively correlated with the recovery. Significant increase of serum luteinizing hormone (LH) and LH response to GnRH were noted after recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

Menstrual resumption was common in FHA undertaking estrogen replacement therapy (ERT). The likelihood of recovery was affected by their BMI before and by amenorrhea but not by the weight gain during therapy. Low serum LH and attenuated LH response to GnRH were the main features of pituitary deficiency in FHA. The menstrual resumption in FHA was accompanied by the recovery of serum LH and the LH response to GnRH.