Bimetallic H2 Addition and Intramolecular Caryl-H Activation Mediated by an Iron-Zinc Hydride

Heteronuclear Fe(μ-H)Zn hydride Cp*Fe(1,2-Cy2PC6H4)HZnEt (3) undergoes reversible intramolecular Caryl-H reductive elimination through coupling of the cyclometalated phosphinoaryl ligand and the hydride, giving rise to a formal Fe(0)-Zn(II) species. Addition of CO intercepts this equilibrium, affording Cp*(Cy2PPh)(CO)Fe-ZnEt that features a dative Fe-Zn bond. Significantly, this system achieves bimetallic H2 addition, as demonstrated by the transformation of the monohydride Fe(μ-H)Zn to a deuterated dihydride Fe-(μ-D)2-Zn upon reaction with D2.

Fabrication of levofloxacin-loaded porcine acellular dermal matrix hydrogel and functional assessment in urinary tract infection

Bacterial cystitis, a commonly occurring urinary tract infection (UTI), is renowned for its extensive prevalence and tendency to recur. Despite the extensive utilization of levofloxacin as a conventional therapeutic approach for bacterial cystitis, its effectiveness is impeded by adverse toxic effects, drug resistance concerns, and its influence on the gut microbiota. This study introduces Lev@PADM, a hydrogel with antibacterial properties that demonstrates efficacy in the treatment of bacterial cystitis. Lev@PADM is produced by combining levofloxacin with decellularized porcine acellular dermal matrix hydrogel and exhibits remarkable biocompatibility. Lev@PADM demonstrates excellent stability as a hydrogel at body temperature, enabling direct administration to the site of infection through intravesical injection. This localized delivery route circumvents the systemic circulation of levofloxacin, resulting in a swift and substantial elevation of the antimicrobial agent's concentration specifically at the site of infection. The in vivo experimental findings provide evidence that Lev@PADM effectively prolongs the duration of levofloxacin's action, impedes the retention and invasion of E.coli in the urinary tract, diminishes the infiltration of innate immune cells into infected tissues, and simultaneously preserves the composition of the intestinal microbiota. These results indicate that, in comparison to the exclusive administration of levofloxacin, Lev@PADM offers notable benefits in terms of preserving the integrity of the bladder epithelial barrier and suppressing the recurrence of urinary tract infections.

Target-induced multipath-to-one-substrate approach for high-efficient bioanalysis of microRNA

Considering the significant potential of microRNA (miRNA) as an efficient biomarker and great challenge of accurate analysis of lowly abundant miRNA, herein, we proposed a target-induced multipath-to-one-substrate strategy to monitor miRNA in vivo and in vitro accurately with high-efficient performances. In presence of target miRNA, it could directly generate the catalytic hairpin assembly (CHA) amplification cycle based on hybridizing with hairpin 1 (H1) and H2 respectively to structure the H1-H2 duplex, then the H1-H2 duplex could activate the cleavage ability of CRISPR/Cas12a to cleavage H1 which represent miRNA indirectly consume H1, which achieve co-consumption of the same substrate H1 by multiple pathways. And thus, the quenched fluorescent signal on H1 could be recovered due to the enlarger distance between fluorescent probe and quencher by the formation of H1-H2 duplex or cleavage of H1, all of which were related directly with target miRNA or indirectly with H1-H2 duplex activated cleavage ability of CRISPR/Cas12a, generating ultrahigh sensitive analytical ability and high-efficient analytical performances, such as more simple, fast, efficient and so on, especially a linear correlation from 100 pM to 100 nM with a detection limit of 78 pM, opening a new door to monitor expression level of biomolecules for early diagnosis and prognosis evaluation of various diseases.

Progress and challenges of plant-derived nucleic acids as therapeutics in macrophage-mediated RNA therapy

Plant-derived nucleic acids, especially small RNAs have been proved by increasing evidence in the pharmacological activities and disease treatment values in macrophage meditated anti-tumor performance, immune regulating functions and antiviral activities. But the uptake, application and delivery strategies of RNAs as biodrugs are different from the small molecules and recombinant protein drugs. This article summarizes the reported evidence for cross-kingdom regulation by plant derived functional mRNAs and miRNAs. Based on that, their involvement and potentials in macrophage-mediated anti-tumor/inflammatory therapies are mainly discussed, as well as the load prospect of plant RNAs in viruses and natural exosome vehicles, and their delivery to mammalian cells through macrophage were also summarized. This review is to provide evidence and views for the plant derived RNAs as next generation of drugs with application potential in nucleic acid-based bio-therapy.

Synthesis of Luminescent Indolo[2,1-b]quinazolin-6(12H)-ones via a Sequential Ugi/Iodine-Promoted Cyclization/Staudinger/Aza-Wittig Reaction

A new efficient synthesis of indolo[2,1-b]quinazolin-6(12H)-ones via a sequential Ugi/iodine-promoted cyclization/Staudinger/aza-Wittig reaction was developed. The acid catalyzed three-component reactions of 2-azidobenzaldehydes, 2-[2-(trimethylsilyl)ethynyl]benzenamines (or o-aminoacetophenones), and isocyanides gave Ugi-3CR intermediates, which reacted subsequently with I2/DMSO and triphenylphosphine to produce indolo[2,1-b]quinazolin-6(12H)-ones in good overall yields. The obtained indolo[2,1-b]quinazolin-6(12H)-ones were all colored in bright red or orange. Their luminescent property was studied preliminarily and some of them showed high molar absorption coefficients, strong fluorescence emission intensity, and good absolute light quantum yields.

Ultrasensitive quantitation of Paraquat based on a small molecule-induced dual-cycle amplification strategy

Paraquat (PQ) is a typical biotoxic small molecule. Knowledge of how to directly introduce it into cyclic amplification rather than transform it into a secondary target is lacking in current analytical methods. Considering the urgent need for trace pesticide residue detection and the inherent defects of small molecule analysis, a CRISPR/Cas12a-driven small molecule-induced dual-cycle strategy was developed based on the immune competition method. The key to signal amplification is the mutual activation and acceleration between Cycle 1 triggered by the small molecule and Cycle 2 driven by CRISPR/Cas12a. Impressively, small molecules have been successfully incorporated into the dual-cycle strategy, which achieves a low detection limit (3.1 pg/mL) and a wide linear range (from 10 pg/mL to 50 μg/mL). Moreover, the designed biosensor was successfully employed to evaluate the PQ residual level in real samples and showed effective implementation for the bioanalysis of small molecule targets and pesticide residue-related food safety.

1D Chiral Enantiomer Lead-Free Perovskites Induced Chiralopical Activity and Photoelectric Response

Chirality is a fascinating geometrical concept with widespread applications in biology, chemistry, and materials. Incorporating chirality into hybrid perovskite materials can induce novel physical properties (chiral optical activity, nonlinear optics, etc.). Hybrid lead-free or lead-substituted perovskite materials, as representatives of perovskites, have been widely used in fields such as photovoltaics, sensors, catalysis, and detectors. However, the successful introduction of chirality into hybrid lead-free perovskites, which can enable their potential applications in areas such as circularly polarized light photodetectors, memories, and spin transistors, remains a challenging research topic. Here, we synthesized two new chiral lead-free perovskites, [(R)-2-methylpiperazine][BiI5] and [(S)-2-methylpiperazine][BiI5]. The material possesses a perovskite structure with a one-dimensional (1D) arrangement, denoted as ABX5. This structure is composed of chiral cations, specifically methylpiperazine, and endless chains of [BiI3] along the a-axis. These chains are assembled from distorted coplanar [BiI5]2- octahedra. The testing results revealed that (R)-1 and (S)-1 have narrow band gaps (Eg-R = 2.016 eV, Eg-S = 1.964 eV), high photoelectric response, and long carrier lifetime [R = 4.94 μs (τ), S = 7.85 μs (τ)]. It is worth noting that 1D chiral lead-free perovskites (R)-1 and (S)-1, which are synthesized in this study with narrow band gaps, high photoelectric response, and long carrier lifetime, have the potential to serve as alternative materials for the perovskite layer in future iterations of lead-free perovskite solar cells. Moreover, this research will inspire the preparation of multifunctional, lead-free perovskites.

[A control study of steroid withdrawal protection strategy after kidney transplantation in children]

Objective: To study the influence of steroid withdrawal protection strategy on height growth in pediatric patients after kidney transplantation. Methods: The prospective cohort study enrolled 40 stage 5 chronic kidney disease children receiving kidney transplantation from July 2017 to September 2022 at Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center. Based on the primary preoperative disease, patients with immune abnormality-associated glomerular diseases or unknown causes were assigned to the steroid maintenance group, in which patients received steroid tapering within 3 months after surgery to a maintenance dose of 2.5 to 5.0 mg/d. While patients with hereditary kidney disease or congenital urinary malformations were assigned to the steroid withdrawal group, in which patients had steroids tapered off within 3 months. The characteristics of height catch-up growth and clinical data were compared between the 2 groups at baseline, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months after kidney transplantation. T-test, repeated measurement of variance analysis, Mann-Whitney U test, and Fisher exact test were used for the comparison between the 2 groups. Results: Among the 40 children, 17 were males, 23 were females, 25 were in the steroid withdraw group ((7.8±2.8) years old when receiving kidney transplantation) and 15 cases were in the steroid maintenance group ((7.6±3.5) years old when receiving kidney transplantation). The study population was followed up for (26±12) months. The total dose per unit body weight of steroids in the steroid withdrawal group was lower than that in the steroid maintenance group ((0.13±0.06) vs. (0.36±0.19) mg/(kg·d), t=5.83, P<0.001). The height catch-up rate (ΔHtSDS) in the first year after kidney transplantation in the steroid withdraw and steroid maintenance groups was 1.0 (0.7, 1.4) and 0.4 (0.1, 1.0), respectively; in the second year, the ΔHtSDS in the steroid withdraw group was significantly higher than that in the steroid maintenance group (1.1 (0.2, 1.7) vs. 0.3 (0, 0.8), U=28.00, P=0.039). The HtSDS in the steroid withdrawal group at the five follow-up time points was -2.5±0.8, -2.0±0.8, -1.5±0.8, -1.3±0.9 and -0.5±0.3, respectively, while in the steroid maintenance was -2.4±1.3, -2.2±1.1, -2.0±1.0, -1.8±1.0 and -1.6±1.0, respectively. There were statistically significant differences in HtSDS at different follow-up time points in both 2 groups (F=19.81, P<0.01), but no statistical differences in overall impact between the 2 groups (F=1.13, P=0.204). The steroid treatment was interaction with the increase of follow-up time (F=3.62, P=0.009). At the 24th month after transplantation, the HtSDS in the steroid withdrawal group was significantly higher than that in the steroid maintenance group (P=0.047). Six patients in the steroid withdrawal group experienced antibody-mediated immune rejection (AMR), while 3 did in the steroid maintenance group. Moreover, there was no significant difference in AMR between the two groups (χ2=0.06, P=0.814). Conclusion: The steroid withdrawal protection strategy favors the height catch-up growth in pediatric patients after kidney transplantation and does not increase the risk of postoperative antibody-mediated immune rejection.

Precise Design of Molecular Ferroelectrics with High TC and Tunable Band Gap by Molecular Modification

Molecular ferroelectric materials are widely applied in piezoelectric converters, non-volatile memorizers, and photovoltaic devices due to their advantages of adjustable structure, lightweight, easy processing, and environmental friendliness. However, designing multifunctional molecular ferroelectrics with excellent properties has always been a great challenge. Herein, a multiaxial molecular ferroelectric is successfully designed by modifying the quasi-spherical cation dabco with CuBr₂ to obtain halogenated [Bretdabco]CuBr₄ (Bretdabco = N-bromoethyl-N'-diazabicyclo [2.2.2]octane), which crystallizes in polar point groups (C₆). Typical ferroelectric behaviors featured by the P-E hysteresis loop and switched ferroelectric domain are exhibited. Notably, the molecular ferroelectric shows a high T_C of 460 K, which is rare in the field and could greatly expand the application range of this material. In addition, the band gap is adjustable through the regulation of halogen. Both the UV absorption spectra and theoretical calculations indicate that the molecular ferroelectrics belong to a direct band gap (2.14 eV) semiconductor. This tunable and narrow band gap semiconductor molecular ferroelectric material with high T_C can be utilized more effectively in the study of optoelectronics and sensors, including piezoelectric energy harvesters. This research may provide a promising approach for the development of multiaxial molecular ferroelectrics with a tiny band gap and high T_C.

[Characteristics of Guyton's exaggerated forced duction test (FDT) and torsional FDT in congenital superior oblique palsy]

Objective: To investigate the characteristics of Guyton's exaggerated forced duction test (FDT) and torsional FDT in patients with congenital superior oblique palsy (CSOP) and their correlation with clinical features. Methods: This cross-sectional study included single-eye CSOP patients and intermittent exotropia (IXT) patients scheduled for strabismus correction surgery at Tianjin Eye Hospital from September 2021 to March 2022. Prior to surgery, measurements of fovea-disc angle (FDA) and maximum cross-sectional area of the superior oblique muscle (max-CSA) were obtained in both eyes of the patients. The Guyton's exaggerated FDT and torsional FDT were performed intraoperatively to assess the degree of superior oblique muscle relaxation. The characteristics of the two FDT tests and their correlation with vertical strabismus angle, FDA, and max-CSA were analyzed. Statistical analyses were conducted using t-test, ANOVA, Tukey's test, Mann-Whitney U test, and chi-square test. Results: A total of 42 patients (84 eyes) were included in the study, including 19 IXT patients (38 eyes) and 23 CSOP patients (46 eyes, 23 eyes with palsy and 23 eyes without palsy). There were no statistically significant differences in gender composition or age between the IXT and CSOP patients (all P>0.05). The degrees of superior oblique muscle relaxation measured by the Guyton's exaggerated FDT were (-2.52±1.20), (-0.35±0.71), and (-0.03±0.16) for the palsy eye, non-palsy eye, and IXT eyes, respectively, showing significant differences (F=88.10, P<0.001). The torsional FDT measurements yielded external rotation angles of 48.70°±9.67°, 37.39°±5.40°, and 38.95°±2.88° for the palsy eye, non-palsy eye, and IXT eyes, respectively, showing significant differences (F=16.67, P<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in internal rotation angles (F=2.36, P=0.100). The FDA values were-12.11°±7.42° for IXT patients and-19.02°±4.95° for CSOP patients, while the max-CSA values for the palsy eye and non-palsy eye of CSOP patients were (7.59±4.69) mm² and (11.63±3.64) mm², respectively, all showing significant differences (all P<0.001). The degree of superior oblique muscle tendon relaxation assessed by the Guyton's exaggerated FDT was negatively correlated with the external rotation angle measured by the torsional FDT (r=-0.64, P=0.001). They were positively correlated with max-CSA (r=0.45, P=0.030) and negatively correlated with max-CSA (r=-0.52, P=0.011). However, there was no correlation with vertical and rotational strabismus angle (r=-0.12, P=0.579; r=0.33, P=0.126) and FDA (r=-0.02, P=0.921; r=-0.23, P=0.309). Conclusions: Guyton's exaggerated FDT and torsional FDT can both assess the degree of superior oblique muscle relaxation in patients with CSOP. Furthermore, these two tests are correlated with changes in superior oblique muscle morphology. However, FDT cannot reflect the degree of vertical and rotational strabismus in patients.

Laminaria japonica polysaccharide attenuates podocyte epithelial-mesenchymal transformation via TGF-β1-mediated Smad3 and p38MAPK pathways

In the present work, we explored the interventional effect and potential mechanism of a purified Laminaria japonica polysaccharide (LJP61A) on podocyte epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in TGF-β1-induced podocytes and adriamycin-treated mice. Results showed that compared to the model groups, LJP61A significantly up-regulated the levels of epithelial markers (Nephrin, WT-1, podocin) and down-regulated the levels of mesenchymal markers (α-SMA, FN1) in vitro and in vivo, thus preventing EMT-like morphological changes of podocytes, proteinuria and kidney injury. Smad3 and p38MAPK are two central pathways mediating podocyte EMT activated by TGF-β1. We found that LJP61A suppressed TGF-β1-induced activation of Smad3, Smad4 and p38MAPK in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, the inhibitory actions of LJP61A on podocyte EMT were synergistically strengthened by Smad3 inhibitor SIS3 and p38MAPK inhibitor SB203580. Taken together, these findings revealed that LJP61A could prevent podocyte EMT, which might be related to the inhibition of TGF-β1-mediated Smad3 and p38MAPK pathways.

Insights of Life Molecules' Dynamic Distribution in Live Cells via Sequence-Structure Bispecific Fluorescent RNA

Life molecules' distributions in live systems construct the complex dynamic reaction networks, whereas it is still challenging to demonstrate the dynamic distributions of biomolecules in live systems. Herein, we proposed a dynamic analysis strategy via sequence-structure bispecific RNA with state-adjustable molecules to monitor the dynamic concentration and spatiotemporal localization of these biomolecules in live cells based on the new insight of fluorescent RNA (FLRNA) interactions and their mechanism of fluorescence enhancement. Typically, computer-based nucleic acid-molecular docking simulation and molecular theoretical calculation have been proposed to provide a simple and straightforward method for guiding the custom-design of FLRNA. Impressively, a novel FLRNA with sequence and structure bispecific RNA named as a structure-switching aptamer (SSA) was introduced to monitor the real-time concentration and spatiotemporal localization of biomolecules, contributing to a deeper insight of the dynamic monitoring and visualization of biomolecules in live systems.

[Omics Analysis of Ferroptosis and Establishment of Prognostic Model for multiple myeloma Patients]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the role of ferroptosis-related genes in multiple myeloma(MM) through TCGA database and FerrDb, and build a prognostic model of ferroptosis-related genes for MM patients.

METHODS

Using the TCGA database containing clinical information and gene expression profile data of 764 patients with MM and the FerrDb database including ferroptosis-related genes, the differentially expressed ferroptosis-related genes were screened by wilcox.test function. The prognostic model of ferroptosis-related genes was established by Lasso regression, and the Kaplan-Meier survival curve was drawn. Then COX regression analysis was used to screen independent prognostic factors. Finally, the differential genes between high-risk and low-risk patients were screened, and enrichment analysis was used to explore the mechanism of the relationship between ferroptosis and prognosis in MM.

RESULTS

36 differential genes related to ferroptosis were screened out from bone marrow samples of 764 MM patients and 4 normal people, including 12 up-regulated genes and 24 down-regulated genes. Six prognosis-related genes (GCLM, GLS2, SLC7A11, AIFM2, ACO1, G6PD) were screened out by Lasso regression and the prognostic model with ferroptosis-related genes of MM was established. Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis showed that the survival rate between high risk group and low risk group was significantly different(P<0.01). Univariate COX regression analysis showed that age, sex, ISS stage and risk score were significantly correlated with overall survival of MM patients(P<0.05), while multivariate COX regression analysis showed that age, ISS stage and risk score were independent prognostic indicators for MM patients (P<0.05). GO and KEGG enrichment analysis showed that the ferroptosis-related genes was mainly related to neutrophil degranulation and migration, cytokine activity and regulation, cell component, antigen processing and presentation, complement and coagulation cascades, haematopoietic cell lineage and so on, which may affect the prognosis of patients.

CONCLUSION

Ferroptosis-related genes change significantly during the pathogenesis of MM. The prognostic model of ferroptosis-related genes can be used to predict the survival of MM patients, but the mechanism of the potential function of ferroptosis-related genes needs to be confirmed by further clinical studies.

Stereoselective Synthesis of 12-Tetrazolyl Substituted (E)-5H-Quinazolino[3,2-a]quinazolines via Sequential Ugi-Azide/Staudinger/aza-Wittig/Addition/Ag(I)-Catalyzed Cyclization

A new efficient and stereoselective synthesis of 12-tetrazolyl substituted (E)-5H-quinazolino[3,2-a]quinazolines via sequential Ugi-azide/Staudinger/aza-Wittig/addition/Ag(I)-catalyzed cyclization was developed. The four-component reactions of 2-azidobenzaldehyde, 2-(alkynyl)benzenamine, isocyanide, and trimethylsilyl azide gave Ugi-azide intermediates, which were subsequently treated with triphenylphosphine and isocyanate to produce 12-tetrazolyl substituted (E)-5H-quinazolino[3,2-a]quinazolines in the presence of Ag(I) catalyst and K₂CO₃.

[Screening of Differential Expression Autophagy Genes Related to the Prognosis of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma and Establishment of an Autophagy Model]

OBJECTIVE

To screen the differential expression of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) autophagy-related gene (ARG), explore the mechanism of differential expression of autophagy gene (DEARG) in the occurrence and development of DLBCL and establish a prognostic model.

METHODS

Using the NCICCR database containing clinical information and gene expression profile data of 481 patients with DLBCL and the HADb database containing 232 ARGs, the differential expression of ARG in DLBCL was determined by R language, the relationship between ARG and the occurrence and development of DLBCL was analyzed by GO and KEGG, the polygene prognostic model was established by Cox regression algorithm, the survival curve was drawn by Kaplan-Meier method, and the reliability of the prognostic model was evaluated by ROC curve.

RESULTS

A total of 122 DEARGs were extracted from lymph node samples of 481 patients with DLBCL and 5 normal lymph nodes, including 4 up-regulated genes and 118 down-regulated genes. GO enrichment mainly focused on ontological annotations such as mitochondrial autophagy, autophagy regulation, and cell response to external stimuli. KEGG enrichment was mainly concentrated in cell senescence, NOD-like receptor signal pathway, PI3K-Akt signal pathway, and PD-1/PD-L1 signal pathway. Survival analysis was performed on 230 samples with complete clinical information. Univariate Cox analysis showed that 20 ARGs were significantly correlated with overall survival of DLBCL patients. Nine prognostic ARGs (HIF1A, CAPN1, ITPR1, PRKCQ, TRAIL, HDAC1, TSC2, NRG3, and MAPK3) were screened by multivariate Cox regression to establish DLBCL ARG prognostic model. Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis showed that there was significant difference in survival rate between high risk group and low risk group (P<0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that international prognostic index and risk value were independent prognostic indicators of DLBCL patients (P<0.05), the area under ROC curve was 0.762 and 0.747, respectively.

CONCLUSION

DLBCL ARG prognostic model can be used to predict the prognosis of patients, but it still needs to be confirmed by a large sample of clinical studies.

Three-in-One System Based on Multi-Path Nucleic Acid Amplification for Bioanalysis of Pre-miRNA/miRNA and Dicer Activity

Today, a lot of attention is being paid to the pre-miRNAs/miRNAs or activity of Dicer due to their important functions in various physiological processes. Especially, the intrinsic relationship among these associated targets is of significant importance for more in-depth research on the mechanism of disease formation and early diagnosis. Herein, a strategy for simultaneous bioanalysis of miRNAs/pre-miRNAs and Dicer enzyme based on the self-designed multi-path nucleic acid amplification technology was proposed. Typically, in the presence of pre-miRNA-155, it can hybridize with Helper to generate a structure with two new toeholds, one of which could react with H1, H2, and H3, performing a modified CHA reaction with obvious fluorescence responses of FAM, and another of which could hybridize with H4, H5, and H6 to construct the [H4-H5-H6]_n DNA nanosphere with obvious fluorescence responses of Cy5. Similarly, miRNA-155 could just hybridize with H1, H2, and H3 to generate the same modified CHA reaction with obvious fluorescence responses of FAM. Due to the successful multi-path nucleic acid amplification, the proposed bioanalysis strategy could be successfully employed for miRNA-155 and pre-miRNA-155 analysis in the range from 500 pM to 100 nM and 1 to 300 nM, respectively. The proposed strategy could be applied to explore another inter-related nucleic acid relationship also, providing great potential in bioanalysis of various nucleic acids.

High Glucose Activated Cardiac Fibroblasts by a Disruption of Mitochondria-Associated Membranes

Cardiac fibrosis is evident even in the situation without a significant cardiomyocyte loss in diabetic cardiomyopathy and a high glucose (HG) level independently activates the cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) and promotes cell proliferation. Mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis, which are key for cell proliferation and the mitochondria-associated membranes (MAMs), are critically involved in this process. However, the roles and the underlying mechanism of MAMs in the proliferation of HG-induced CFs are largely unknown. The proliferation and apoptosis of CFs responding to HG treatment were evaluated. The MAMs were quantified, and the mitochondrial respiration and cellular glycolytic levels were determined using the Seahorse XF analyzer. The changes of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and mitofusin-2 (MFN2) in responding to HG were also determined, the effects of which on cell proliferation, MAMs, and mitochondrial respiration were assessed. The effects of STAT3 on MFN2 transcription was determined by the dual-luciferase reporter assay (DLRA) and chromatin immunoprecipitation (CHIP). HG-induced CFs proliferation increased the glycolytic levels and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, while mitochondrial respiration was inhibited. The MAMs and MFN2 expressions were significantly reduced on the HG treatment, and the restoration of MFN2 expression counteracted the effects of HG on cell proliferation, mitochondrial respiration of the MAMs, glycolytic levels, and ATP production. The mitochondrial STAT3 contents were not changed by HG, but the levels of phosphorylated STAT3 and nuclear STAT3 were increased. The inhibition of STAT3 reversed the reduction of MFN2 levels induced by HG. The DLRA and CHIP directly demonstrated the negative regulation of MFN2 by STAT3 at the transcription levels via interacting with the sequences in the MFN2 promoter region locating at about −400 bp counting from the start site of transcription. The present study demonstrated that the HG independently induced CFs proliferation via promoting STAT3 translocation to the nucleus, which switched the mitochondrial respiration to glycolysis to produce ATP by inhibiting MAMs in an MFN2-depression manner.

Association Between Breast and Thyroid Lesions: A Cross-Sectional Study Based on Ultrasonography Screening in China

Introduction: Prior research has shown an association between breast and thyroid cancers, although their relationship is unclear. In China, asymptomatic women undergoing regular health checkups usually undergo breast and thyroid ultrasonography screening. The present cross-sectional ultrasound-based study estimated the prevalence of breast masses (BM) and thyroid nodules (TN) and their relationship among a population-based cohort of Chinese women. Methods: This study included 34,184 consecutive asymptomatic Chinese women who underwent both breast and thyroid ultrasound evaluation during one health care examination. Detected lesions were assigned into categories of different malignant risks according to the Breast and Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-/TI-RADS). Binomial logistic regression was used to determine the association between occurrence of BM and TN, and multinomial logistic regression was used to analyze the correlation of BM and TN in different BI-/TI-RADS categories. Associations between BM and TN, as well as anthropometric and biochemical markers, were also explored. Results: Of those enrolled, 6371 (18.6%) had BM, 12,153 (35.6%) had TN, and 2279 (6.7%) had both. After adjusting for age, body mass index (BMI), and height, females with TN had a higher risk of BM (odds ratio [OR] = 1.151, 95% confidence interval [CI 1.081-1.225], p < 0.0001) than those with normal thyroids, and females with BM had a higher risk of TN (OR = 1.165 [CI 1.096-1.238], p < 0.0001) than those without BM. Women with a TN >10 mm (OR = 1.249 [CI 1.104-1.413], p = 0.0004) and those with a TN ≤10 mm (OR = 1.134 [CI 1.062-1.211], p = 0.0002) were at higher risk of BM compared with those with normal thyroids. As RADS categories increased, so did the correlation between BM and TN. The increased risk of TN was associated with a higher BMI, height, systolic blood pressure, and a lower plasma albumin level. The increased risk of BM was associated with a lower BMI, plasma albumin levels, and higher height. Conclusions: A high prevalence of BM and TN was detected by ultrasonography screening in this cohort of Chinese women. These lesions occurred frequently and simultaneously, particularly in women with lesions in higher RADS categories.

[Exploration of omics mechanism and drug prediction of coronavirus-induced heart failure based on clinical bioinformatics]

Objective: Present study investigated the mechanism of heart failure associated with coronavirus infection and predicted potential effective therapeutic drugs against heart failure associated with coronavirus infection. Methods: Coronavirus and heart failure were searched in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and omics data were selected to meet experimental requirements. Differentially expressed genes were analyzed using the Limma package in R language to screen for differentially expressed genes. The two sets of differential genes were introduced into the R language cluster Profiler package for gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto gene and genome encyclopedia (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis. Two sets of intersections were taken. A protein interaction network was constructed for all differentially expressed genes using STRING database and core genes were screened. Finally, the apparently accurate treatment prediction platform (EpiMed) independently developed by the team was used to predict the therapeutic drug. Results: The GSE59185 coronavirus data set was searched and screened in the GEO database, and divided into wt group, ΔE group, Δ3 group, Δ5 group according to different subtypes, and compared with control group. After the difference analysis, 191 up-regulated genes and 18 down-regulated genes were defined. The GEO126062 heart failure data set was retrieved and screened from the GEO database. A total of 495 differentially expressed genes were screened, of which 165 were up-regulated and 330 were down-regulated. Correlation analysis of differentially expressed genes between coronavirus and heart failure was performed. After cross processing, there were 20 GO entries, which were mainly enriched in virus response, virus defense response, type Ⅰ interferon response, γ interferon regulation, innate immune response regulation, negative regulation of virus life cycle, replication regulation of viral genome, etc. There were 5 KEGG pathways, mainly interacting with tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signaling pathway, interleukin (IL)-17 signaling pathway, cytokine and receptor interaction, Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, human giant cells viral infection related. All differentially expressed genes were introduced into the STRING online analysis website for protein interaction network analysis, and core genes such as signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, IL-10, IL17, TNF, interferon regulatory factor 9, 2'-5'-oligoadenylate synthetase 1, mitogen-activated protein kinase 3, radical s-adenosyl methionine domain containing 2, c-x-c motif chemokine ligand 10, caspase 3 and other genes were screened. The drugs predicted by EpiMed's apparent precision treatment prediction platform for disease-drug association analysis were mainly TNF-α inhibitors, resveratrol, ritonavir, paeony, retinoic acid, forsythia, and houttuynia cordata. Conclusions: The abnormal activation of multiple inflammatory pathways may be the cause of heart failure in patients after coronavirus infection. Resveratrol, ritonavir, retinoic acid, amaranth, forsythia, houttuynia may have therapeutic effects. Future basic and clinical research is warranted to validate present results and hypothesis.

[Efficacy and safety of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound at different intervals by mechanical force in treating erectile dysfunction: a preliminary study]

Objective: To study the efficacy and safety of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) at different intervals by mechanical force in treating erectile dysfunction (ED). Method: Forty patients with mild to moderate ED were randomized in a 1∶1 ratio to receive 16-treatment sessions of LIPUS in group A and group B, applied 3 times per week and 2 times per week, respectively. End-point assessments were made at 8th week after treatment. Efficacy were evaluated using International Index of Erectile Function-Erectile Function domain score (IIEF-EF), Erectile Hardness Score (EHS), Self-Esteem and Relationship Questionnaire (SEAR), Sexual Encounter Profile (SEP), Global Assessment Question (GAQ), and pain were assessed by Visual Analogue Score (VAS).Treatment response was confirmed by a minimal clinically importance difference (MCID) at 8th week. Results: Compared with baseline, IIEF-EF score [(17.1±5.48 vs 23.4±3.75, P<0.05) and (18.9±4.34 vs 24.1±4.32, P<0.05)], proportion of EHS 4 [(0 vs 40%, P<0.05) and (16.7% vs 55.6%, P<0.05)], and Overall Relationship score [(50.6 vs 67.5, P<0.05) and (44.4 vs 70.1, P<0.05)] were significantly improved at 8th week in two groups, respectively. Compared with baseline, the positive responses to SEP-3 increased significantly at 8th week in two groups (50.0% vs 80.0%,P<0.05) and (44.4% vs 88.9%, P<0.05), respectively. The positive responses to GAQ-2 were 90.0% and 88.9% at 8th week in two groups, respectively. There were no significant differences in IIEF-EF, EHS, SEAR, SEP and GAQ at 8th week between two groups. There was no significant difference in treatment response using MCID between two groups at end-point (80.5% vs 77.5%). The treatment duration for full sessions were 2.5 weeks less in group A than group B. No adverse effects were reported in all cases. Conclusion: LIPUS at two different intervals is effective and safe for mild to moderate ED, and the regimen at 3 times per week can achieve quite good effect in relatively short duration,while the long-term effects is still be clarified in further study.

Prevention and possible mechanism of a purified Laminaria japonica polysaccharide on adriamycin-induced acute kidney injury in mice

The present work aims to investigate the effects and underlying mechanism of a homogeneous Laminaria japonica polysaccharide (LJP61A) on acute kidney injury (AKI) in mice. According to the results of biochemical and pathological analysis, we concluded that LJP61A could protect kidney from the damage of adriamycin in AKI mice. Compared to the model group, the mRNA level of cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and MCP-1) and protein level of mesenchymal markers demsin were decrease by the treatment of LJP61A while the protein levels of podocyte structure markers (Nephrin and WT-1) were increased. Moreover, the adriamycin-induced enhancement of phosphor-p65, phosphor-p38, phosphor-ERK1/2 and phosphor-JNK in the kidney of AKI mice were significantly suppressed by LJP61A. Similar variation was observed in the mRNA and protein levels of TGF-β1 and Smad3. These results suggested that LJP61A prevented acute kidney injury possibly via regulating TGF-β1-mediated Smad3, MAPKs and NF-κB signaling pathways.

[Prospective association between childhood abuse experiences and depressive symptoms in adolescence]

Objective: To evaluate the prospective association between childhood abuse experiences and depressive symptoms in adolescence. Methods: Students in grade 3 and 4 from three primary schools were selected, with informed consent, through convenience cluster sampling in Bengbu, Anhui province in May 2013. The students' body height, weight were assessed. Childhood abuse experiences including emotional, physical or sexual abuses, as well as depressive symptoms were reported by children themselves. Data on parental educational background and household economic status were collected through parent questionnaire. A follow up was conducted 4 years later after baseline survey. Depressive symptoms were evaluated by using Children's Depression Inventory at baseline survey, and by using Mood and Feeling Questionnaire at follow-up. Logistic regression model was used to analyze the relationship between childhood abuse experiences and depressive symptoms in adolescence. Results: A total of 1 172 students were included in baseline survey, and a follow-up was conducted for 87.1% of them (n=1 021). Among 1 126 students with complete information on childhood abuse experiences at baseline survey, the reported rates of physical, emotional and sexual abuses were 12.8% (144/1 126), 11.1% (125/1 126) and 10.9% (123/1 126), respectively. The prevalence of depressive symptoms at baseline survey and follow-up was 7.0% (82/1 172) and 12.3% (126/1 021), respectively. After adjusted for baseline depressive symptoms, age at follow-up, sex, the only-child in family, household economic status, divorce of parents and BMI, childhood emotional and physical abuse experiences were significant risk factors for depressive symptoms in mid-adolescence, with the ORs were 1.86 (95%CI: 1.03-3.36, P=0.039) and 2.37 (95%CI: 1.39-4.03, P=0.001), respectively. Conclusion: Childhood physical and emotional abuse might increase the risk of depressive symptoms in adolescence.

Clinical study on the prevalence and comparative analysis of metabolic syndrome and its components among Chinese breast cancer women and control population

Metabolic syndrome has been previously identified as a risk factor for breast cancer and is increasingly a public health concern. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its components among primary breast cancer and control population. The clinical data of metabolic syndrome and its components in the breast cancer (605 cases) and control population (3212 cases), from Breast Cancer Center and Physical Examination Center of Chongqing, China, from July 2015 to February 2017, were collected for comparative analysis. This study was prospectively registered in Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (http://www.chictr.org.cn/, number: ChiCTR-OOB-15007543). The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in breast cancer (32.6%) was obviously higher than that in control population (18.2%) (p<0.001; OR: 2.173, 95%CI: 1.793 to 2.633). With age stratification, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in breast cancer group aged below 60 years (24.9%, p<0.001; OR: 2.216, 95%CI: 1.744 to 2.816) and equal/above 60 years (58.3%, p<0.001; OR: 2.291, 95%CI: 1.580 to 3.322) were also statistically higher than those (13.0% & 37.9%) in control population, respectively. Breast cancer women were more likely to have preobese (BMI 25.0-29.9) or obesity (BMI ≥30.0), broader waist circumference, lower HDL-C level, higher systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure and higher fasting blood glucose level compared to the control population, corresponding prevalence were 31.7%vs.19.4%, 76.0%vs.29.6%, 37.4%vs.30.4%, 34.2%/27.3%vs.27.6%/14.2% and 25.0%vs.20.1%, respectively (p<0.01). In summary, there is high prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its components in Chinese breast cancer women, and metabolic syndrome is closely related with breast cancer. Therefore, screening and prevention strategy of metabolic syndrome should be carried out in the management of breast cancer.

Negative genic switch of HER-2 in the primary tumor instead of the synchronous metastatic nodal lesions after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in a patient with primary HER2-positive breast cancer

Background

A few retrospective studies have indicated that neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in breast cancer may change biomarker profiles of the primary tumor. Little is known about the status of HER-2 gene of the synchronous nodal metastases when that of the residual tumor undergoes negative conversion in a neoadjuvant setting.

Case presentation

We describe a female patient with left breast cancer (T2N2M0) who underwent negative conversion of HER-2 in the primary tumor instead of the synchronous nodal lesions after NAC. Core needle biopsy showed invasive ductal carcinoma with HER2 immunohistochemistry (IHC) (2+) and amplified HER-2 gene determined by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Then, the patient underwent 4 cycles of anthracycline- and taxane-based NAC and subsequent left modified radical mastectomy. Postoperative pathology showed invasive ductal carcinoma involving 4 of 12 surgically excised axillary lymph nodes with HER2 IHC (1+) and FISH negative (HER2 gene not amplified) in the residual tumor of the breast specimen. Due to the negative genic switch of HER2 after NAC, the patient rejected to accept trastuzumab. Under the patient’s consent, the synchronous nodal lesions were further investigated and showed HER2 IHC(−) but FISH positive (HER-2 gene amplified). Therefore, the patient agreed to accept adjuvant trastuzumab treatment every 3 weeks for 1 year.

Conclusions

We propose further assessment of HER2 gene in the synchronous nodal metastases, especially when negative genic switch of HER-2 occurs in the primary tumor after NAC in order to tailor the systemic regimens for breast cancer patients.

First Report of Basella rugose mosaic virus Infecting Four O'Clock (Mirabilis jalapa) in China

Four o'clock (Mirabilis jalapa) and M. himalaica var. chinensis are members of the family Nyctaginaceae and are widely distributed weeds in Yunnan Province, China. In 2009, mosaic and malformation symptoms were observed on leaves of the four o'clock on the campus of Yunnan Agricultural University and in the Black Dragon Pool Park in Kunming City, China. More than 30% of the four o'clock plants showed symptoms of the disease. Sap from leaves of symptomatic four o'clock plants caused local chlorotic and necrotic lesions in inoculated Chenopodium amaranticolor after 7 to 10 days and systemic mosaic symptoms in C. quinoa and Nicotiana benthamiana after 10 to 12 days. No symptoms were observed following inoculation of sap from asymptomatic plants. A pure virus isolate (MJ) was obtained after three successive single-lesion transfers from C. amaranticolor. Following mechanical inoculation of the MJ isolate, seedlings of indicator plants, N. benthamiana, displayed mosaic symptoms. Moreover, back transmission to healthy four o'clock seedlings by leaf extracts from systemically infected N. benthamiana plants caused similar mosaic and malformation symptoms. Flexuous, filamentous particles (650 to 700 nm long and 13 nm wide) and cytoplasmic laminar aggregates and pinwheel inclusions typical of members of the genus Potyvirus were observed in infected four o'clock leaves by electron microscopy. No other virus particles were observed. Serological testing of 10 symptomatic and healthy plants using a monoclonal antibody specific for Potyvirus group members in an indirect ELISA (Agdia Inc., Elkhart, IN) also resulted in positive reactions in infected leaves, however, all healthy seedlings tested were negative. Total RNAs were extracted from infected four o'clock leaves with the RNeasy Plant Mini Kit (QIAGEN, Hilden, Germany) and the 3'-terminal portion of the viral genome (including part of the NIb polymerase, the entire coat protein (CP), and 3'-UTR) was then amplified by reverse transcription-PCR with a universal Potyviridae primer Sprimer/M4 and an M4T as the initial primer (2). A fragment of 1,720 nucleotides long were separated, purified, and cloned and three independent clones were sequenced (GenBank Accession No. JN250997). Nucleotide and amino acid sequence analysis of the putative CP gene, respectively, revealed 75.1 to 76.3% and 80.3 to 82.1% identity with the Basella rugose mosaic virus (BaRMV) (GenBank Accession Nos. DQ821938, DQ394891, and DQ821939), 77.4 and 81.0% identity with Peace lily mosaic virus (GenBank Accession No. DQ851494), and 76.0 and 81.7% identity with the Phalaenopsis chlorotic spot virus (GenBank Accession No. HM021142). However, on the basis of the CP gene sequence analyses, these three viruses shared high (>88.5 and >94.3%) CP nucleotide and amino acid identity and should be classified as the same Potyvirus species. According to the species demarcation criteria for the Potyviridae (1), the pathogen causing mosaic and malformation symptoms on four o'clock was BaRMV (3). To our knowledge, this is the first report of BaRMV in four o'clock. References: (1) M. J. Adams et al. Arch. Virol. 150:459, 2005. (2) J. Chen et al. Arch. Virol. 146:757, 2001. (3) C. H. Hung and Y. C. Chang. Plant Pathol. 55:819, 2006.

First Report of Botryosphaeria dothidea Causing Canker and Shoot Blight of Eucalyptus in China

Eucalyptus spp. are grown on approximately 2 million ha in China and is the most important genus in forest plantations worldwide. An outbreak of cankers and shoot blight was observed for the first time on Eucalyptus grandis in China during May of 2008. Symptoms included dieback of shoots and branches, lesions and canker formation on the stems, and clear or yellow-to-red exudates on stems and branches. Isolations were made from affected trees in Shilin County from May to July of 2008. Diseased samples were plated on potato dextrose agar (PDA) and incubated at 26°C. Fungal isolates developed copious, white, aerial mycelium that became dark gray after 5 to 6 days and formed black pycnidia after 14 days. Conidia were hyaline, aseptate, thin walled, fusiform, and measured 19 to 28 × 4 to 6 μm. Ascospores were hyaline, aseptate, and widest from the middle to upper third (17 to 28 × 6 to 13 μm). Identity was confirmed by analysis of the rDNA internal transcribed spacer region (ITSI-5.8S-ITS2) with primers ITS1 and ITS4. BLAST searches showed 99 to 100% identity with Botryosphaeria dothidea isolates from GenBank (Accession Nos. FJ358703 and EU080916). Representative sequences of B. dothidea from eucalyptus from China were deposited into GenBank (Accession Nos. FJ517657 and FJ517658). On the basis of morphological and molecular results, the fungus isolated from diseased eucalyptus wood was confirmed to be B. dothidea. Pathogenicity tests were conducted by stem inoculation of 10-month-old E. grandis seedlings. Two experiments were conducted using two inoculation techniques. In the first experiment, 2-mm-diameter actively growing mycelium plugs of B. dothidea were applied to 2-mm-long bark wounds on the middle point of the stems, and control seedlings were inoculated with sterile PDA plugs in a similar fashion as above. Inoculated and control seedlings were inoculated in a greenhouse and watered as needed. In the second experiment, segments of branches (averaging 18 mm in diameter and 30 cm long) were inoculated with 5-mm-diameter plugs of actively growing mycelium. Control segments of branches were inoculated as previously described. The branches were incubated at 26°C in moist chambers. There were five replicate seedlings per inoculation technique. After 20 days, all E. grandis seedlings showed leaf wilting, Dark, vascular stem tissue was observed. Symptoms were more abundant on the segment of branches. After 6 days, vascular necroses that developed on the inoculated plants were 5.2 ± 1.2 cm. B. dothidea was reisolated from all inoculated symptomatic tissue; no symptoms were visible in the control seedlings and no fungus was isolated from them. These results confirm previous reports of B. dothidea causing canker and dieback symptoms of Eucalyptus species in Australia (2), the United States (1), and South Africa (3). To our knowledge, this is the first report of B. dothidea causing canker disease on eucalyptus in China. References: (1) E. L. Barnard et al. Plant Dis. 71:358, 1987. (2) E. M. Davison and C. S. Tay. Plant Dis. 67:1285, 1983. (3) H. Smith et al. Plant Pathol. 43:1031, 1994.

First Report of Pomegranate Wilt Caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata in Yunnan, China

Pomegranate (Punica granatum Linn.) is an important fruit crop in Yunnan Province, China. Recently, older pomegranate bushes in Mengzi County, Yunnan began dying. Initial symptoms were yellowing and wilting of leaves on one to several branches, followed by sudden death of the bush within 3 to 4 weeks. Roots of diseased bushes appeared brown to black, and irregularly shaped lesions were observed when the bark was removed. A species of Ceratocystis was consistently isolated from discolored roots, stem, and branch tissues from wilted bushes on potato dextrose agar (PDA) and was identified as Ceratocystis fimbriata Ellis & Halst, based on the morphology of perithecia, ascospores, conidia, and conidiophores. Perithecia were black with a globose base (130 to 300 μm) and a long neck (450 to 800 μm). Ascospores exuded from the apex of the perithecium neck in a long coil and were small, hyaline, and hat-shaped (3.8 to 5.0 μm long × 2.3 to 4.0 μm wide). Conidiophores were septate and hyaline to dark greenish brown. Hyaline conidia, 8 to 17 μm long × 6 to 15 μm wide, were usually produced in chains of 10 or more. Thick-walled endoconidia were globose to oval, olive brown, and 8 to 20 μm in diameter. Because of the increasing occurrence of the disease, surveys of the main pomegranate production areas in Mengzi County, including Xinan, Duofale, Caoba, Hongzhai, and Shilipu townships, were conducted from 10 to 20 August 2002. The disease was detected in 17 of 50 plantings surveyed. Disease was more severe in older plantings than in younger plantings. Disease incidence was 1% in 1- to 5-year-old bushes, 3.6% in 6- to 10-year-old bushes, and 6% in bushes more than 10 years old. Scolytid beetles were occasionally found on bushes, but we were unable to isolate the fungus from them as has been reported (1). Inoculations with an isolate of C. fimbrata were made by inserting mycelium with perithecia from 12-day-old cultures growing on PDA into root wounds made with a sterile scalpel on five pomegranate plants and then covering the wounds with Parafilm. Sterile medium was placed in an equal number of wounded bushes to serve as controls. Fourteen days later, symptoms began to appear in two bushes, and 5 days later, all bushes exhibited symptoms. No symptoms were observed on control bushes. The first visible symptom was a small area of blackened tissue near the point of inoculation. Lesions expanded slowly, but they expanded more rapidly upward than downward. The fungus was reisolated on PDA from roots of all artificially inoculated bushes. C. fimbriata has been previously reported as the cause of pomegranate wilt in India (2); however, to our knowledge, this is the first report of C. fimbriata on pomegranate in China. Because environmental conditions which favor the pathogen (temperatures ranging from 18 to 30°C and frequent rains) typically occur in many areas during late spring and summer, the disease has the potential to seriously impact pomegranate production in China. References: (1) Y. M. Somasekhara. Plant Dis. 83:400, 1999. (2) Y. M. Somasekhara, et al. Res. Crops 1(1):63, 2000.

Complete nucleotide sequence and genome organization of a Chinese isolate of tobacco bushy top virus

The complete nucleotide sequence of a Chinese isolate of tobacco bushy top virus (TBTV), designated TBTV-Ch, was determined from cDNA generated from double-stranded RNA extracted from diseased tobacco. The genome is 4152 nucleotides (nt) in size, contains four putative open reading frames (ORFs) and untranslated regions of 10 nt and 645 nt at the 5' and 3' ends, respectively. In genome organization and in the amino acid sequence of its potential products, the RNA of TBTV-Ch is similar to other umbraviruses sequenced to date. The results suggested that TBTV should be regarded as a definitive species of the genus Umbravirus.

Diagnosis and treatment of congenital choledochal cyst: 20 years' experience in China

AIM

To summarize the experience of diagnosis and treatment of congenital choledochal cyst in the past 20 years (1980-2000).

METHODS

The clinical data of 108 patients admitted from 1980 to 2000 were analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS

Abdominal pain,jaundice and abdominal mass were presented in most child cases. Clinical symptoms in adult cases were non-specific, resulting in delayed diagnosis frequently. Fifty-seven patients (52.7%) had coexistent pancreatiobiliary disease. Carcinoma of the biliary duct occurred in 18 patients (16.6%). Ultrasonic examination was undertaken in 94 cases, ERCP performed in 46 cases and CT in 71 cases. All of the cases were correctly diagnosed before operation. Abnormal pancreatobiliary duct junction was found in 39 patients. Before 1985 the diagnosis and classification of congenital choledochal cyst were established by ultrasonography preoperatively and confirmed during operation, the main procedures were internal drainage by cyst enterostomy. After 1985, the diagnosis was established by ERCP and CT, and cystectomy with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy was the conventional procedures.In 1994, we reported a new and simplified operative procedure in order to reduce the risk of choledochal cyst malignancy. Postoperative complication was mainly retrograde infection of biliary tract, which could be controlled by the administration of antibiotics, there was no perioperative mortality.

CONCLUSION

The concept in diagnosis and treatment of congenital choledochal cyst has obviously been changed greatly.CT and ERCP were of great help in the classification of the disease.Currently, cystectomy with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy is strongly recommended as the choice for patients with type I and type IV cysts. Piggyback orthotopic liver transplantation is indicated in type V cysts (Caroli's disease) with frequently recurrent cholangitis.

Diagnosis and treatment of congenital choledochal cyst: 20 years′ experience in China

AIM: To summarize the experience of diagnosis and treatment of congenital choledochal cyst in the past 20 years (1980-2000).

METHODS: The clinical data of 108 patients admitted from 1980 to 2000 were analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS: Abdominal pain, jaundice and abdominal mass were presented in most child cases. Clinical symptoms in adult cases were non-specific, resulting in delayed diagnosis frequently. Fifty-seven patients (52.7%) had coexistent pancreatiobiliary disease. Carcinoma of the biliary duct occurred in 18 patients (16.6%). Ultrasonic examination was undertaken in 94 cases, ERCP performed in 46 cases and CT in 71 cases. All of the cases were correctly diagnosed before operation. Abnormal pancreatobiliary duct junction was found in 39 patients. Before 1985 the diagnosis and classification of congenital choledochal cyst were established by ultrasonography preoperatively and confirmed during operation, the main procedures were internal drainage by cyst enterostomy. After 1985, the diagnosis was established by ERCP and CT, and cystectomy with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy was the conventional procedures. In 1994, we reported a new and simplified operative procedure in order to reduce the risk of choledochal cyst malignancy. Postoperative complication was mainly retrograde infection of biliary tract, which could be controlled by the administration of antibiotics, there was no perioperative mortality.

CONCLUSION: The concept in diagnosis and treatment of congenital choledochal cyst has obviously been changed greatly. CT and ERCP were of great help in the classification of the disease. Currently, cystectomy with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy is strongly recommended as the choice for patients with type I and type IV cysts. Piggyback orthotopic liver transplantation is indicated in type V cysts (Caroli’s disease) with frequently recurrent cholangitis.

The effect of G-CSF-stimulated donor marrow on engraftment and incidence of graft-versus-host disease in allogeneic bone marrow transplantation

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and infection are major obstacles to successful allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (allo-BMT). In an attempt to improve the results of HLA-identical sibling BMT, we investigated the effect of accelerating hemopoietic reconstitution and reducing acute GVHD (aGVHD) in allo-BMT receiving G-CSF-stimulated donor marrow and the preliminary biological mechanism. The donors of 30 patients (study group) with leukemia were given G-CSF 3-4 microg/kg/d for 7 doses prior to marrow harvest. The results of subsequent engraftment in the recipients were compared with those of 18 patients without G-CSF (control group). Five donors themselves were studied to assess the effects of G-CSF on the hematopoietic progenitor cells and lymphocyte subsets in the bone marrow (BM). We observed that the stimulated BM yielded higher numbers of nucleated cells as well as CFU-GM and CD34+ cells (p<0.01), and that hemopoietic reconstitution was accelerated. The median number of days of granulocyte count exceeding 0.5x10(9)/L and platelet count exceeding 20x10(9)/L was 16 (range 10-23 d) and 18.5 (range 13-31 d), respectively (control group: median 22 d, range 13-29 d and median 23 d, range 17-34 d; p=0.001). The incidence of grade II-IV severe aGVHD was very low, with only 1 case (3.3%) with acute grade II aGVHD limited to the skin in the study group. Five of 18 patients in the control group manifested grade II-IV severe aGVHD (27.8%, p=0.02). The number of T-lymphocyte subsets in the harvested BM using G-CSF stimulation was changed. In the G-CSF-stimulated marrow group, CD4+ decreased and CD8+ increased significantly (p=0.02). The changes of progenitor cells and T-lymphocyte subsets in donors' BM from pre- and post-G-CSF stimulation showed that the percentage of CD4+ reduced (p=0.04) and that of CD8+ increased (p=0.06), while that of CD34+ also increased (p=0.002). The incidence of chronic GVHD and relapse had no significant difference between both groups. These results indicate that allo-BMT in BM G-CSF priming can accelerate engraftment and minimize the incidence of severe aGVHD. There is a trend in favor of improved transplantation-related mortality.

Magnolol reduces myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury via neutrophil inhibition in rats

The accumulation of oxygen-free radicals and activation of neutrophils are strongly implicated as important pathophysiological mechanisms mediating myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury. It has been proven that various antioxidants have cardioprotective effects. Magnolol, an active component extracted from the Chinese medicinal herb Magnolia officinalis, possesses potent antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities. In this study, the cardioprotective activity of magnolol was evaluated in an open-chest anesthetized rat model of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury. The results demonstrated that pretreatment with magnolol (0.2 and 0.5 microg/kg, i.v. bolus) at 10 min before 45 min of left coronary artery occlusion, significantly suppressed the incidence of ventricular fibrillation and mortality when compared with the control group. Magnolol (0.2 and 0.5 microg/kg) also significantly reduced the total duration of ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation. After 1 h of reperfusion, pretreatment with magnolol (0.2 and 0.5 microg/kg) caused a significant reduction in infarct size. In addition, magnolol (0.2 microg/kg) significantly reduced superoxide anion production and myeloperoxidase activity, an index of neutrophil infiltration in the ischemic myocardium. In addition, pretreatment with magnolol (0.2 and 0.5 microg/kg) suppressed ventricular arrhythmias elicited by reperfusion following 5 min of ischemia. In vitro studies of magnolol (5, 20 and 50 microM) significantly suppressed N-formylmethionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP; 25 nM)-activated human neutrophil migration in a concentration-dependent manner. It is concluded that magnolol suppresses ischemia- and reperfusion-induced ventricular arrhythmias and reduces the size of the infarct resulting from ischemia/reperfusion injury. This pronounced cardioprotective activity of magnolol may be mediated by its antioxidant activity and by its capacity for neutrophil inhibition in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion.

Identification and characterization of two novel components of the Prp19p-associated complex, Ntc30p and Ntc20p

The yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae Prp19p protein is an essential splicing factor and a spliceosomal component. It is not tightly associated with small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) but is associated with a protein complex consisting of at least eight proteins. We have identified two novel components of the Prp19p-associated complex, Ntc30p and Ntc20p. Like other identified components of the complex, both Ntc30p and Ntc20p are associated with the spliceosome in the same manner as Prp19p immediately after or concurrently with dissociation of U4, indicating that the entire complex may bind to the spliceosome as an intact form. Neither Ntc30p nor Ntc20p directly interacts with Prp19p, but both interact with another component of the complex, Ntc85p. Immunoprecipitation analysis revealed an ordered interactions of these components in formation of the Prp19p-associated complex. Although null mutants of NTC30 or NTC20 showed no obvious growth phenotype, deletion of both genes impaired yeast growth resulting in accumulation of precursor mRNA. Extracts prepared from such a strain were defective in pre-mRNA splicing in vitro, but the splicing activity could be restored upon addition of the purified Prp19p-associated complex. These results indicate that Ntc30p and Ntc20p are auxiliary splicing factors the functions of which may be modulating the function of the Prp19p-associated complex.

Simultaneous HPLC of twelve monoamines and metabolites shows neuroblastoma cell line releases HVA and HIAA

Neuroblastoma is a solid tumor occurring usually in children less than 5 years old. It has been difficult to distinguish neuroblastoma from other childhood tumors through morphological diagnosis. Urine homovanillic acid (HVA), which is a metabolite of dopamine, has been proposed as a diagnostic index. Although increased levels of a serotonin metabolite, 5-hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid (HIAA), have also been observed in urine samples of the patients, they were largely attributed to dietary amines. By using an HPLC system with electrochemical detection, which can simultaneously assay 12 monoamines and metabolites, we showed that HVA and HIAA are two of the most prominent monoamine metabolites in the medium after a neuroblastoma cell line (IMR-32) was cultured for 3 days. Moreover, we found that the levels of HVA and HIAA in the media are proportional to the cell densities. These results suggest that the levels of HVA and HIAA in tissue culture media, or in urine from patients whose dietary amines are well controlled, may provide a valuable diagnostic index for neuroblastoma.

Snt309p modulates interactions of Prp19p with its associated components to stabilize the Prp19p-associated complex essential for pre-mRNA splicing

The SNT309 gene was identified via a mutation that causes lethality of cells in combination with a prp19 mutation. We showed previously that Snt309p is a component of the Prp19p-associated complex and that Snt309p, like Prp19p, is associated with the spliceosome immediately after or concomitantly with dissociation of U4 from the spliceosome. We show here that extracts prepared from the SNT309-deleted strain (DeltaSNT309) were defective in splicing but could be complemented by addition of the purified Prp19p-associated complex. Isolation of the Prp19p-associated complex from DeltaSNT309 extracts indicated that the complex was destabilized in the absence of Snt309p and dissociated on affinity chromatography, suggesting a role of Snt309p in stabilization of the Prp19p-associated complex. Addition of the affinity-purified Prp19p-Snt309p binary complex to DeltaSNT309 extracts could reconstitute the Prp19p-associated complex. Genetic analysis further suggests that Snt309p plays a role in modulating interactions of Prp19p with other associated components to facilitate formation of the Prp19p-associated complex. A model for how Snt309p modulates such interactions is proposed.

Cef1p is a component of the Prp19p-associated complex and essential for pre-mRNA splicing

The Prp19p protein of the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae is an essential splicing factor and is associated with the spliceosome during the splicing reaction. We have previously shown that Prp19p is not tightly associated with small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles but is associated with a protein complex consisting of at least eight protein components. By sequencing components of the affinity-purified complex, we have identified Cef1p as a component of the Prp19p-associated complex, Ntc85p. Cef1p could directly interact with Prp19p and was required for pre-mRNA splicing both in vivo and in vitro. The c-Myb DNA binding motif at the amino terminus of Cef1p was required for cellular growth but not for interaction of Cef1p with Prp19p or Cef1p self-interaction. We have identified a small region of 30 amino acid residues near the carboxyl terminus required for both cell viability and protein-protein interactions. Cef1p was associated with the spliceosome in the same manner as Prp19p, i.e. concomitant with or immediately after dissociation of U4. The anti-Cef1p antibody inhibited binding to the spliceosome of Cef1p, Prp19p, and at least three other components of the Prp19p-associated complex, suggesting that the Prp19p-associated complex is likely associated with the spliceosome and functions as an integral complex.

Thrombopoietin: a potential T-helper lymphocyte stimulator. Change in T-lymphocyte composition and blood cytokine levels in thrombopoietin cDNA transferred mice

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of thrombopoietin (TPO) on T lymphocyte in Balb/c mice delivered hTPO cDNA with plasmid vector. Both mature and immature T lymphocytes in central organs increased, but only the CD4+ subset was preferably proliferated in circulation. High serum IFN-gamma was coinciding with the declination of platelet counts, but TNF-alpha was positively associated with the platelet count, while high IL-2 level was similar to the course of TPO expression. Our data suggested that TPO is a stimulator for T lymphocytes, especially the CD4+ subset.

Snt309p, a component of the Prp19p-associated complex that interacts with Prp19p and associates with the spliceosome simultaneously with or immediately after dissociation of U4 in the same manner as Prp19p

The yeast protein Prp19p is essential for pre-mRNA splicing and is associated with the spliceosome concurrently with or just after dissociation of U4 small nuclear RNA. In splicing extracts, Prp19p is associated with several other proteins in a large protein complex of unknown function, but at least one of these proteins is also essential for splicing (W.-Y. Tarn, C.-H. Hsu, K.-T. Huang, H.-R. Chen, H.-Y. Kao, K.-R. Lee, and S.-C. Cheng, EMBO J. 13:2421-2431, 1994). To identify proteins in the Prp19p-associated complex, we have isolated trans-acting mutations that exacerbate the phenotypes of conditional alleles of prp19, using the ade2-ade3 sectoring system. A novel splicing factor, Snt309p, was identified through such a screen. Although the SNT309 gene was not essential for growth of Saccharomyces cerevisiae under normal conditions, yeast cells containing a null allele of the SNT309 gene were temperature sensitive and accumulated pre-mRNA at the nonpermissive temperature. Far-Western blot analysis revealed direct interaction between Prp19p and Snt309p. Snt309p was shown to be a component of the Prp19p-associated complex by Western blot analysis. Immunoprecipitation studies demonstrated that Snt309p was also a spliceosomal component and associated with the spliceosome in the same manner as Prp19p during spliceosome assembly. These results suggest that the functions of Prp19p and Snt309p in splicing may require coordinate action of these two proteins.

Cancer-promoting effect of Taiwan betel quid in hamster buccal pouch carcinogenesis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the cancer-promoting effect of Taiwan betel quid in hamster buccal pouch carcinogenesis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two hundred and fifty-two non-inbred male adult Syrian golden hamsters were randomly divided into six groups, each containing forty-two animals. A treatment regimen over a 14-week experimental period was employed with six animals per group being killed at seven different periods (every 2 weeks). The right buccal pouch of each animal was painted three times a week with various combinations of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA), Taiwan betel quid extract, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and mineral oil.

RESULT

Both the number and size of tumors in animals concurrently treated with DMBA and betel quid were significantly higher than those in animals treated with DMBA alone in each killing period of 8, 10, 12 and 14 weeks. No visible tumors but hyperkeratosis and acanthosis were observed in pouches treated with betel quid alone for all killing periods.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate Taiwan betel quid may be a co-carcinogen in human oral carcinogenesis, if extrapolation can be made from the current animal study.

Can superoxide dismutase prevent postburn dermal ischemia?

Decreasing progressive dermal ischemia after burning could theoretically limit the amount of skin necrosis. It is controversial whether the use of free radical scavengers could prevent the progressive dermal ischemia of the postburn stasis zone. We evaluated the effect of superoxide dismutase (SOD) on preventing postburn dermal ischemia in animal models by the India ink perfusion and skin transparent preparation techniques. The closely clipped backs of guinea-pigs were bathed in 75 degrees C water for 10 s. Within 5 min postburn, SOD-treated groups were administered SOD (10,000 u/kg) intra-peritoneally every 6 h. All animals were perfused with 70 per cent India ink via cervical artery cannula by 16 kPa constant pressure at 0, 8, 16, 24 h postburn, and the skin transparent preparations were made, while the level of malonyl dialdehyde (MDA) in skin tissue was assessed. The results showed that with prolongation of postburn time, the rate of filling of India ink in skin capillary plexuses decreased gradually (p < 0.01). MDA increased continuously, which was related to postburn dermal ischemia (r = 0.689, p < 0.01). Though the level of MDA decreased in SOD-treated groups, the India ink filling rates showed no significant difference between controls and experimental groups (p > 0.05). The results were also confirmed by observation of skin transparent preparations and TEM. This study suggests that superoxide dismutase fails to prevent progressive dermal ischemia after burning.

Establishment of a human acute promyelocytic leukemia-ascites model in SCID mice

Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is an interesting model for cancer research because of the presence of the specific PML-RARalpha fusion gene associated with the clinical response to retinoic acid differentiation therapy. To better understand and improve differentiation induction with retinoic acid, we have established a human APL-ascites model in SCID mice using the NB4 human APL cell line. NB4 (1 x 10(6) cells) were transplanted into the peritoneum (IP) of SCID mice for 1 month. NB4 ascites cells (A-NB4) appeared, which were then engrafted in SCID mice periodically for 18 passages at an interval of 3 to 4 weeks with a 100% success rate of tumor induction. The mean survival times of SCID mice transplanted with 1 x 10(6) A-NB4 cells was 21.6 +/- 2.3 days. Analysis of the biologic characteristics of ninth passage NB4 ascitic cells was performed and they were found to have the morphologic, immunologic, cytogenetic, and molecular features of cultured NB4 cells. Furthermore, A-NB4 cells were capable of differentiating when treated with all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA), as manifested by enhanced NBT reduction and CD11b expression. In vivo treatment with ATRA in SCID mice for 4 days also increased NBT reduction by A-NB4 cells. ATRA treatment significantly prolonged survival time in the group after transplantation (28.1 +/- 6.8 to 29.1 +/- 8.4 days) compared with the control (P < .001). Furthermore, treatment with adriamycin, an effective chemotherapeutic drug in APL, had a strong growth suppressive effect on A-NB4 cells. These results demonstrate that this SCID-APL (NB4 ascites cells) model is a useful preclinical system for evaluating new or known drugs in the treatment of APL.

Verruciform xanthoma. Case report and literature review

Verruciform xanthoma is a relatively uncommon lesion. Half of the reported cases occurred in the gingiva or alveolar ridge. In most cases, the clinical impressions are papilloma or verrucous carcinoma, which demonstrates the importance of the clinical and pathological recognition of this lesion. The cause of pathogenesis is still unknown since the first report in 1971. There are some cases reported in conjunction with leukoplakia, carcinoma in situ, pemphigus, and discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), which merits close evaluation of this disease. This article reports two cases of verruciform xanthoma and reviews the evidence of its pathogenesis from the available literature.

Clinical evaluation of different treatment methods for oral submucous fibrosis. A 10-year experience with 150 cases

Over a 10-year period (1982-1991); a total of 150 patients divided into two groups with varying degrees of oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) were treated by either medical or surgical therapies. Medical treatment involved (a) conservative oral administration of vitamin B-complex, buflomedial hydrochloride and topical triamcinolone acetonide 0.1%, or (b) conventional submucosal injections of a combination of dexamethasone and hyaluronidase, or (c) a combination of both (a) and (b). The surgical group was treated by the excision of fibrotic tissues and covering the defect with split-thickness skin, fresh human amnion, or buccal fat pad (BFP) grafts. Treatment was chosen according to the stage of clinical progression to gain maximal interincisal distance (ID). The cases were followed up by monthly examinations for at least two years, or when possible even longer. A combination of (a) and (b) medical treatment was satisfactory in cases of mild impairment (ID > 20 mm) but in the long term it led to symptomatic relief only. Surgical therapy, on the other hand, when accepted by the patients, led to a significant improvement of trismus in cases of severe limitation (ID < 20 mm). Following this strategy, an additional ID increase was observed in all patients. BFP grafting was particularly successful in diminishing scarring after two years as compared with the other two grafts. Together with a cessation of the betel quid chewing habit before and after therapy, these treatment regimens combined with daily mouth opening exercises were found to be necessary to manage OSF cases in early and advanced stages of progression.