4 mC site recognition algorithm based on pruned pre-trained DNABert-Pruning model and fused artificial feature encoding

DNA 4 mC plays a crucial role in the genetic expression process of organisms. However, existing deep learning algorithms have shortcomings in the ability to represent DNA sequence features. In this paper, we propose a 4 mC site identification algorithm, DNABert-4mC, based on a fusion of the pruned pre-training DNABert-Pruning model and artificial feature encoding to identify 4 mC sites. The algorithm prunes and compresses the DNABert model, resulting in the pruned pre-training model DNABert-Pruning. This model reduces the number of parameters and removes redundancy from output features, yielding more precise feature representations while upholding accuracy.Simultaneously, the algorithm constructs an artificial feature encoding module to assist the DNABert-Pruning model in feature representation, effectively supplementing the information that is missing from the pre-trained features. The algorithm also introduces the AFF-4mC fusion strategy, which combines artificial feature encoding with the DNABert-Pruning model, to improve the feature representation capability of DNA sequences in multi-semantic spaces and better extract 4 mC sites and the distribution of nucleotide importance within the sequence. In experiments on six independent test sets, the DNABert-4mC algorithm achieved an average AUC value of 93.81%, outperforming seven other advanced algorithms with improvements of 2.05%, 5.02%, 11.32%, 5.90%, 12.02%, 2.42% and 2.34%, respectively.

Pyroptosis inhibitors MCC950 and VX-765 mitigate myocardial injury by alleviating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in acute myocardial hypoxia

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a prevalent cardiovascular disease with high morbidity and mortality rates worldwide. Pyroptosis is an inflammatory form of programmed cell death that has been linked to various pathological conditions. However, its exact contribution to the onset and progression of heart injury in AMI has not yet fully elucidated. Herein, we established mouse AMI model by ligating the left anterior descending artery and performed transcriptome analysis during the early phase of AMI. Mouse HL-1 and human AC-16 cardiomyocytes were subjected to hypoxia to simulate ischemic injury in vitro. Our results revealed a significant activation of the inflammatory response at 3 h post-ligation, as confirmed by RNA sequencing. We identified the occurrence of NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis in the cardiac tissues of human cases with AMI, as well as in mouse models of AMI and hypoxia-induced cardiomyocytes, using immunohistochemistry staining and Western blotting assays. Concurrently, pharmacological inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis with MCC950 and VX-765 effectively decreased hypoxia-induced cardiomyocytes injury, while mitigating myocardial oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation caused by hypoxia. Moreover, the circulating levels of gasdermin D (GSDMD), the pyroptosis executor, were remarkably elevated in the plasma of mice with early AMI and in the supernatant of hypoxia-exposed cardiomyocytes in a time-dependent manner using ELISA and Western blotting. Furthermore, the change in circulating GSDMD positively correlated with Creatine Kinase-MB (CK-MB) in the plasma of early-stage AMI mouse. In summary, these findings indicated a critical role for NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis in the progression of AMI, the administration of MCC950 and VX-765 may be attractive candidate therapeutic approaches for cardiac injury caused by acute hypoxia or even AMI. Additionally, the circulating GSDMD exhibits potential as a newly diagnostic biomarker for AMI.

A simulation training of family management for parents of children with epilepsy: a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that is more likely to be diagnosed in children. The main treatment involves long-term use of anti-epileptic drugs and above all, home care is of great importance. As there has not been a widely accepted home care protocols, simulating a home care environment is necessary for caregivers to develop skills of proper home care. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a simulation training of family management style (STOFMS) for parents of children with epilepsy in China.

METHODS

A randomized controlled trial was conducted on 463 children with epilepsy and their families. They were recruited from March 2020 to November 2022 and randomly assigned to the STOFMS group or the conventional group in a 1:1 ratio. Scores of family management measures, 8-item of Morisky Medication Adherence and epilepsy clinical symptom of both groups were collected at three points of time: within 24 h after admission (T0), 3 months after discharge (T1), and 6 months after discharge (T2). Changes due to intervention were compared across groups by repeated-measures ANOVA. The study report followed the CONSORT 2010 checklist.

RESULTS

There were statistically significant differences between the two groups at T2. A considerable increase over the baseline was observed in the total management level score and subscale scores in the STOFMS group at T1, compared with essentially no change in the control group. In terms of medication adherence, the STOFMS group performance improved greatly at T1 and T2 compared with the control group. The same result was also found in clinical efficacy at T2 (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

STOFMS is an effective intervention to improve family management level, treatment adherence and clinical efficacy for children with epilepsy.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The registration number is ChiCTR2200065128. Registered at 18 October 2022, http://www.medresman.org.cn.

Improving the geographical origin classification of Radix glycyrrhizae (licorice) through hyperspectral imaging assisted by U-Net fine structure recognition

Radix glycyrrhizae (licorice) is extensively employed in traditional Chinese medicine, and serves as a crucial raw material in industries such as food and cosmetics. The quality of licorice from different origins varies greatly, so classification of its geographical origin is particularly important. This study proposes a technique for fine structure recognition and segmentation of hyperspectral images of licorice using deep learning U-Net neural networks to segment the tissue structure patterns (phloem, xylem, and pith). Firstly, the three partitions were separately labeled using the Labelme tool, which was utilized to train the U-Net model. Secondly, the obtained optimal U-Net model was applied to predict three partitions of all samples. Lastly, various machine learning models (LDA, SVM, and PLS-DA) were trained based on segmented hyperspectral data. In addition, a threshold method and a circumcircle method were applied to segment licorice hyperspectral images for comparison. The results revealed that compared with the threshold segmentation method (which yielded SVM classifier accuracies of 99.17%, 91.15%, and 92.50% on the training set, validation set, and test set, respectively), the U-Net segmentation method significantly enhanced the accuracy of origin classification (99.06%, 94.72% and 96.07%). Conversely, the circumcircle segmentation method did not effectively improve the accuracy of origin classification (99.65%, 91.16% and 92.13%). By integrating Raman imaging of licorice, it can be inferred that the U-Net model, designed for region segmentation based on the inherent tissue structure of licorice, can effectively improve the accuracy origin classification, which has positive significance in the development of intelligence and information technology of Chinese medicine quality control.

[Research advances on the role and mechanism of chitosan-based wound dressing in wound healing]

The skin is the first barrier to maintain the stability of internal environment of the body and resist harmful factors of external environment, and is easily damaged because of various external factors. When full-thickness skin defects reach a certain level, it is difficult for the skin to repair itself, so wound dressings are needed to promote wound healing. Seeking an ideal dressing that can promote wound healing has long been a hot research topic. Chitosan is a unique biopolysaccharide polymer with good biocompatibility, biodegradability, antibacterial activity, and thermal stability, which has great potential in the development and application of wound dressings. Based on the introduction of properties of chitosan, this article reviews the role and mechanism of chitosan-based wound dressings in wound healing, and summarizes the hemostatic effect, antibacterial effect, delivery effect, and tissue regeneration promotion effect of chitosan, aiming to provide a certain reference for the research and development of new chitosan-based wound dressings in the future.

[Effect of dNLR and LIPI scores on the prognosis of elderly patients with non-surgical treatment of non-small cell lung cancer]

Objective: To investigate the effects of derived neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (dNLR) and lung immune prognostic index (LIPI) score on the overall survival (OS) of non-surgical elderly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Methods: Clinical and pathological data of NSCLC patients in Hebei General Hospital from January 2014 to June 2018 were collected retrospectively. The dNLR value was calculated based on the results of blood routine before treatment, and the optimal cut-off value of dNLR was obtained by ROC curve. The patients were divided into low dNLR level group and high dNLR level group based on the optimal dNLR cut-off value. The groups were classified as good, intermediate and poor based on the LIPI score consisting of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and dNLR tested before treatment. The Kaplan-Meier method and Log rank test were used for survival analysis, and the Cox risk proportional regression model was used for analysis of prognostic influences. Results: The area under the ROC curve for dNLR predicting prognosis in non-surgical elderly NSCLC patients was 0.591 (95% CI: 0.491, 0.692; P=0.093). The optimal cut-off value for dNLR predicting prognosis in elderly NSCLC patients was 2.515, with a sensitivity of 45.5% and a specificity of 81.8%. The gender, BMI, pathological type and degree of tumor differentiation were associated with dNLR levels (P<0.05). The median survival times were 16 and 10 months for patients in the low dNLR level group (dNLR<2.51) and high dNLR level group (dNLR≥2.51), respectively (P<0.001), and 15, 10 and 6 months for patients with good, intermediate and poor LIPI scores, respectively (P<0.001). The age, gender, smoking, pathological type, tumor differentiation, clinical stage, BMI, dNLR level, LDH level and LIPI scores were all associated with patient prognosis (P<0.05), and age≥76 years, tumor differentiation and clinical stage Ⅲ and Ⅳ were independent factors influencing patient prognosis (P<0.05). Conclusion: No matter what treatment measures are taken, dNLR level and LIPI score are related to patients' prognosis, and non-surgical elderly NSCLC patients with high dNLR level and poor LIPI score before treatment have worse prognoses.

Palmatine Protects Against MSU-Induced Gouty Arthritis via Regulating the NF-κB/NLRP3 and Nrf2 Pathways

Purpose

Gouty arthritis could be triggered by the deposition of monosodium uric acid (MSU) crystals. Palmatine (PAL), a protoberberine alkaloid, has been proven to possess compelling health-beneficial activities. In this study, we aimed to explore the effect of PAL on LPS plus MSU crystal-stimulated gouty arthritis in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

PMA-differentiated THP-1 macrophages were primed with LPS and then stimulated with MSU crystal in the presence or absence of PAL. The expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress-related biomarkers and signal pathway key targets were determined by ELISA kit, Western blot, immunohistochemistry and qRT-PCR, respectively. In addition, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of PAL on MSU-induced arthritis mice were also evaluated.

Results

The results indicated that PAL (20, 40 and 80 μM) dose-dependently decreased the mRNA expression and levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-18 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)). The levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) were remarkably enhanced, while the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) was reduced. Western blot analysis revealed that PAL appreciably inhibited NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathways through inhibiting the phosphorylation of p-65 and IκBα, blocking the expression of NLRP3, ASC, IL-1β and Caspase-1, as well as enhancing the antioxidant protein expression of Nrf2 and HO-1. In vivo, PAL attenuated MSU-induced inflammation in gouty arthritis, as evidenced by mitigating the joint swelling, and decreasing the productions of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18, TNF-α and MDA, while enhancing the levels of SOD and GSH. Moreover, PAL further attenuated the infiltration of neutrophils into joint synovitis.

Conclusion

PAL protected against MSU-induced inflammation and oxidative stress via regulating the NF-κB/NLRP3 and Nrf2 pathways. PAL may represent a potential candidate for the treatment of gouty arthritis.

Analysis of related factors of behavioral problems in children with congenital pseudarthrosis of tibia

OBJECTIVE:

This study aimed to investigate the factors associated with behavioral problems in children with congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia.

METHODS:

Random sampling is utilized to obtain a sample of 90 patients. The behavioral problems of the patients are detected by Achenbach Children's Behavior Scale. Parental emotional problems are investigated by the Self-Rating Depression Scale and Self-Rating Anxiety Scale.

RESULTS:

The results demonstrate that the detection rate of behavioral problems in children with congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia is 53.3% (48/90). Among these behavioral problems, an abnormal rate is higher in the four dimensions: thinking, violation of discipline, social interaction, and aggression. The anxiety and depression scores of caregivers are statistically higher in the abnormal group than in the normal group. The results of the multivariate analysis show that the anxiety degree of the parents had a significant impact on the behavior of the children.

CONCLUSIONS:

Children with congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia are facing the issues of high rates of behavioral problems. Parents of children with congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia had higher levels of anxiety and depression than parents of normal children. The anxiety and depressive state of mind of parents or caregivers had a significant impact on the behavior of children with congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia.

Diet and gastric cancer risk: an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses of prospective cohort studies

BACKGROUND

Several systematic reviews and meta-analyses evaluated the associations between dietary factors and the incidence of gastric cancer (GC).

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the strength and validity of existing evidence, we conducted an umbrella review of published systematic reviews and meta-analyses that investigated the association between diets and GC incidence.

METHODS

We searched the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases for systematic reviews and meta-analyses of prospective cohort studies investigating the association between dietary factors and GC risk. For each association, we recalculated the adjusted summary estimates with their 95% confidence interval (CI) and 95% prediction interval (PI) using a random-effects model. We used the I² statistic and Egger's test to assess heterogeneity and small-study effects, respectively. We also assessed the methodological quality of each study and the quality of evidence.

RESULTS

Finally, we identified 16 meta-analyses that described 57 associations in this umbrella review. Of the 57 associations, eight were statistically significant using random-effects, thirteen demonstrated substantial heterogeneity between studies (I² > 50%), and three found small-study effects. The methodological quality of meta-analyses was classified as critically low for two (13%), low for thirteen (81%), and only one (6%) was rated as high confidence. Quality of evidence was rated high for a positive association for GC incidence with a higher intake of total alcohol (RR = 1.19, 95% CI 1.06-1.34) and moderate-quality evidence to support that increased processed meat consumption can increase GC incidence. Three associations (total fruit, vitamin E, and carotenoids) were determined to be supported by low-quality evidence, and two (pickled vegetables/foods and citrus fruit) were supported by very low-quality.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings support the dietary recommendations for preventative GC, emphasizing lower intake of alcohol and foods preserved by salting. New evidence suggests a possible role for total fruit, citrus fruit, carotenoids, and vitamin E. More research is needed on diets with lower quality evidence.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42021255115.

Application of ITO Method in Determination of Special Half-Sibling Relationship

OBJECTIVES

To identify whether the relationship between Zhang A, Zhang B, Zhang C and Zhang X is the half-sibling relationship whose mother is sister (hereinafter referred to as the special half-sibling relationship) or the common first cousin relationship and discuss the application of ITO method in discriminating the special kinship.

METHODS

DNA was extracted from blood stain of four identified individuals, PowerPlex^® 21 System and AGCU 21+1 STR kit were used to detect autosomal STR genetic markers. Investigator^® Argus X-12 QS kit was used to detect the X chromosome STR genetic markers, the special half-sibling index (SHSI) and first cousin index (FCI) and their likelihood ratio (LR) were calculated by ITO method.

RESULTS

The LR results of SHSI to FCI, which were calculated based on autosomal STR genotyping and the analysis of X-STR genotyping results suggested that the relationship between Zhang A, Zhang B, Zhang C and Zhang X was inclined to be a special half-sibling relationship.

CONCLUSIONS

For the identification of special kinship, it is necessary to comprehensively apply various genetic markers according to the case. After the conclusion that shared alleles cannot be excluded from the analysis, ITO method can be further used to establish discriminant assumptions according to the specific case to obtain objective and reliable identification opinions.

[Correlation study between changes in intestinal microflora structure and immune indexes in newly treated patients with pulmonary tuberculosis]

To explore the correlation between the changes of the intestinal flora of newly treated pulmonary tuberculosis patients and the immune indicators of the body, and to provide a reference for the prevention and treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis. A single-center and case-control study was adopted. From October 2020 to April 2021, 43 patients with newly diagnosed tuberculosis in the Department of Tuberculosis, Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital,University of South China were selected as the control group. 43 cases of newly treated pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), 43 healthy control (HC) during the same period, collected fresh feces and whole blood of subjects, and used Illumina Hiseq high-throughput sequencing technology to analyze 16S of all microorganisms in feces The V4 region of rRNA was amplified and sequenced, and the structure of the intestinal flora was analyzed by QIIME software. Use flow cytometry to determine the subject's immune indicators (CD3⁺, CD4⁺, CD8⁺, CD4⁺CD25⁺CD127^-Treg, CD14⁺CD16⁺, CD14⁺CD16^-), and analyze the changes in intestinal flora and immune function in newly treated pulmonary tuberculosis patients Inherent connection. The χ² test, t test, and Wilcox rank sum test were used to analyze the differences in age, gender, α diversity, and relative abundance of the two groups of people. Compared with the HC group, the alpha diversity of the intestinal flora in the PTB group decreased (shannon index: t=3.906, P=0.000 2; simpson index: Z=553, P=0.004 7; chao1 index: t=5.395, P=0.000 0). β diversity analysis showed that there were significant differences in the structure of the intestinal flora between the two groups (P=0.000). Species difference analysis showed that at the phylum level, the relative abundance of Firmicutes in the PTB group was significantly lower than that in the HC group (Z=486.0, P=0.000 5). At the genus level, there are 15 different bacterial genera between the two groups. In the PTB group, bifidobacterium, enterococcus, lactobacillus, anaerostipes, the relative abundance of the above 5 genera of veillonella is higher than that of the HC group (P<0.05); Butyricimonas, clostridium, and broutella (blautia), coprococcus, dorea, lachnospira, roseburia, faecalibacterium, ruminococcus, the relative abundance of 10 bacterial genera including dialister was lower than that of the HC group (P<0.05). Comparison of immune indexes between groups showed that CD14⁺CD16⁺monocytes (%) in the PTB group were higher than those in the HC group (t=2.456, P=0.001 6<0.05), while CD14⁺CD16^-monocytes (%) were lower than HC (t=-4.368, P=0.000<0.05), while the differences in CD3⁺, CD4⁺, CD8⁺, CD4⁺/CD8⁺and Treg (CD4⁺CD25⁺CD127^-) were not statistically significant (P>0.05). Spearman correlation analysis showed that Firmicutes in the PTB group was negatively correlated with CD4⁺/CD8⁺, CD14⁺CD16⁺(r=-0.218, P=0.048; r=-0.245, P=0.025), and positively correlated with CD14⁺CD16^-Correlation (r=0.250, P=0.022); At the genus level, Faecalis is positively correlated with CD4⁺/CD8⁺and CD4⁺(r=0.250, P=0.023; r=0.258, P=0.019); Rosella and CD3⁺, CD8⁺and CD14⁺CD16^-are positively correlated (r=0.27, P=0.024; r=0.219, P=0.046; r=0.027, P=0.039), and negatively correlated with CD14⁺CD16⁺(r=-0.280, P= 0.01). Changes in the structure of the intestinal flora of newly treated pulmonary tuberculosis patients may be one of the influencing factors of the immune function of the body. Targeted optimization of the structure of the intestinal flora and improvement of the body's immunity may be used as an effective auxiliary treatment for pulmonary tuberculosis.

Therapeutic effect of oxyberberine on obese non-alcoholic fatty liver disease rats

BACKGROUND

Berberine (BBR) has been widely used to treat non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The metabolites of BBR were believed to contribute significantly to its pharmacological effects. Oxyberberine (OBB), a gut microbiota-mediated oxidative metabolite of BBR, has been firstly identified in our recent work.

PURPOSE

Here, we aimed to comparatively investigate the anti-NAFLD properties of OBB and BBR.

METHODS

The anti-NAFLD effect was evaluated in high-fat diet-induced obese NAFLD rats with biochemical/ELISA tests and histological staining. The related gene and protein expressions were detected by qRT-PCR and Western blotting respectively. Molecular docking and dynamic simulation were also performed to provide further insight.

RESULTS

Results indicated OBB remarkably and dose-dependently attenuated the clinical manifestations of NAFLD, which (100 mg/kg) achieved similar therapeutic effect to metformin (300 mg/kg) and was superior to BBR of the same dose. OBB significantly inhibited aberrant phosphorylation of IRS-1 and up-regulated the downstream protein expression and phosphorylation (PI3K, p-Akt/Akt and p-GSK-3β/GSK-3β) to improve hepatic insulin signal transduction. Meanwhile, OBB treatment remarkably alleviated inflammation via down-regulating the mRNA expression of MCP-1, Cd68, Nos2, Cd11c, while enhancing Arg1 mRNA expression in white adipose tissue. Moreover, OBB exhibited closer affinity with AMPK in silicon and superior hyperphosphorylation of AMPK in vivo, leading to increased ACC mRNA expression in liver and UCP-1 protein expression in adipose tissue.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, compared with BBR, OBB was more capable of maintaining lipid homeostasis between liver and WAT via attenuating hepatic insulin pathway and adipocyte inflammation, which was associated with its property of superior AMPK activator.

A comparative investigation of the interaction and pharmacokinetics of hemoglobin with berberine and its oxymetabolite

Berberine (BBR), isolated from Coptis chinensis, is one type of isoquinoline alkaloids. BBR exerts numerous of bioactivities but the plasma concentration is really low. In our previous study, a new oxymetabolite (OBB) has been discovered and showed superior anti-inflammatory effect comparing with BBR. The aim of this study is to investigate the interaction, metabolite and pharmacokinetics of BBR with hemoglobin. Sprague-Dawley rats were used to carry out the interaction, metabolite and pharmacokinetics of BBR and OBB in vivo. Fluorescence spectra were used to analyse the interaction in vitro. Results showed that OBB could be generated after intravenous injection or incubating with BBR in vitro and in vivo; Both BBR and OBB exerted much stronger binding interaction with hemoglobin than plasma and affect the conformation of bovine hemoglobin and change the fluorescence spectral properties; BBR and OBB were mainly presented and transported in the proteins-bound form. These results provide a new insight to understand the dynamic equilibrium of BBR and OBB within body from the perspective of new metabolic pathways.

Research Progress of Metabolomics in Forensic Pathology

Abstract

Metabolomics is an interdisciplinary subject that rose in the post-genomic era, which focuses on quantitative study of the response of living organisms to outside stimulation and pathophysiological changes, as well as multiple dynamic response of the level of in vivo metabolites caused by genetic mutation. It is extensively used in basic research of system biology, materia medica, clinical medicine, etc. In the forensic field, metabolomics mainly focuses on forensic toxicology, but with the generalization of certain techniques, it's foreseeable that metabolomics has a broad research prospect in forensic pathology. This article summarizes the major analysis techniques and methods of metabolomics, describes the research status of metabolomic techniques in the field of forensic pathology application research, including postmortem interval and death cause. Moreover, this article summarizes and discusses the potential applicable areas, in order to provide reference for relative research and application.

[Analysis of transcanal endoscopic ear surgery for antrum cholesteatoma]

Objective:To report surgical techniques, outcomes, clinical experience and application key point of transcanal endoscopic ear surgery for tympanic antrum cholesteatoma. Method:Data from 27patients who underwent transcanal endoscopic ear surgery for tympanic antrum cholesteatoma were retrospectively analyzed. Removal of tympanic antrum cholesteatoma and tympanoplasty were individualized. Patients were followed up at postoperative 1, 3 and 6month. Result:There was no failure of tympanal and canal wall reconstruction. The mean preoperative air conduction threshold was（50.33±7.34） dB HL, compared to（29.59±5.56） dB HL postoperatively P=0.00）. The mean preoperative air-bone gap was（29.13±4.70） dB, compared to（12.25±4.98） dB postoperatively（P=0.00）. There was no complication, recurrence, residual tympanic antrum cholesteatoma or secondary surgery needed. Conclusion:Stand alone transcanal endoscopic ear surgery is a safe and effective for tympanic antrum cholesteatoma.

Research Progress on Age Estimation Based on DNA Methylation

Abstract

Age estimation is of great significance in the fields of criminal investigation and forensic identification. It can provide the age information of individuals to judicial departments to facilitate the development of judicial work. In recent years, age estimation methods expanded from the morphological level to the molecular biology level. With the rapid development of epigenetics represented by DNA methylation, and the advancement of DNA methylation detection technology together with the detection platform, many age estimation methods based on DNA methylation biomarkers, or using several biological fluids, such as blood, blood stains, saliva, semen stains, etc. are developed. Currently, researches related to age estimation based on DNA methylation are relatively widely carried out. This paper summarizes the researches on age estimation based on DNA methylation, in order to provide references for related studies and forensic applications.

Apoptosis induced by bruceine D in human non‑small‑cell lung cancer cells involves mitochondrial ROS‑mediated death signaling

Bruceine D is one of the active components of Brucea javanica (L.) Merr., which is widely used to treat cancer in China. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential effect of bruceine D against non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells and delineate its underlying mechanisms. The results indicated that treatment with bruceine D markedly inhibited the proliferation of wild-type NSCLC cells and epidermal growth factor receptor-mutant cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner, and significantly decreased the colony-forming ability and migration of A549 cells. Hoechst 33342 staining and flow cytometric analysis demonstrated that treatment with bruceine D effectively induced apoptosis of A549 cells. In addition, the proapoptotic effect of bruceine D was found to be associated with G0-G1 cell cycle arrest, accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde, depletion of glutathione levels and disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential. Additionally, pretreatment with N-acetylcysteine, a ROS scavenger, significantly attenuated the bruceine D-induced inhibition in A549 cells. Western blotting demonstrated that treatment with bruceine D significantly suppressed the expression of the anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2, BclxL and X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis, enhanced the expression levels of apoptotic proteins Bax and Bak, and inhibited the expression of pro-caspase-3 and pro-caspase-8. Based on these results, it may be suggested that inhibition of A549 NSCLC cell proliferation by bruceine D is associated with the modulation of ROS-mitochondrial-mediated death signaling. This novel insight may provide further evidence to verify the anticancer efficacy of B. javanica, and support a role for bruceine D in the anti-NSCLC treatment.

[Clinical value of V-shaped concealed incision in parotid benign tumors]

Objective:The aim of this study is to explore the clinical value of V-shaped concealed incision in parotid benign tumors surgery.Method:Thirty-two patients with benign parotid tumors who were hospitalized from January 2016 to December 2017 were selected. All patients were treated with a V-shaped incision approach, starting from the anterior dermatoglyph of the tragus,extending downward to the earlobe and backward to the posterior earlobe, which formed an intersection point of the earlobe for parotid benign tumors,superficial lobectomy and facial nerve dissection.The greater auricular nerve and parotid masseter fascia were preserved,and the occult incision and prognosis were followed up for 1 year.Result:①All patients achieved primary healing without salivary fistula and infection.The visual analogue scale (VAS) score of 32 patients with postoperative aesthetic satisfaction was 0.②Of the 32 patients,only 2 had temporary facial paralysis after operation, which returned to normal after 1 and 2 months,while the rest had no facial paralysis symptoms.③The posterior and inferior auricular branches of the greater auricular nerve were preserved in all the 32 patients, and the sensation of the lobe was numb to varying degrees after the operation. After 3 months,the sensation recovered completely.④Two patients had skin flushing and sweating on the affected cheek during masticatory exercise, while the others had no Frey syndrome. ⑤Five patients who were repaired with sternocleidomastoid muscle flaps during operation were reexamined one year after operation.There was no significant asymmetric depression on the operative side compared with the healthy side.⑥All the 32 patients were followed up for 1 year without recurrence.Conclusion:The V-shaped concealed incision is performed for benign tumor resection of the parotid gland. The incision approach is concealed and the scar is not obvious.The surgical field is clear and easy to operate.It is not easy to damage the facial nerve and the ear nerve. After the operation,the patient has a satisfactory facial shape.The parotid gland secretion function is basically normal,which is superior to the traditional S-shaped incision and has good clinical application value.

[Clinical observation of attic retraction pocket by otoendoscopes]

Objective:To explore the clinical effect, key points and techniques of otoendoscopic surgery in patients with attic retraction pocket. Method:Data of 25 patients (25 ears) of chronic suppurative otitis media who treated with transcanal endoscopic ear surgery for attic retraction pocket were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were examined by otoendoscopes at postoperative 1, 3 and 6 month，respectively. Patients were tested by pure tone audiometry，tympanometry test and high resolution CT of temporal bone at postoperative 6 month. Result:The healing rate of perforation was 100% in 25 patients (25 ears) at postoperative 1 month. There was no infection, tinnitus, vertigo, decrease of air-bone conduction hearing and other complications. All patients had good tympanic membrane shape, no perforation, no invagination or adhesion in tympanic membrane at postoperative 6 month.The mean preoperative air conduction threshold was (39.59±8.37)dB HL, while it was (26.21±7.51)dB HL at postoperative 6 month (t=8.265，P<0.01).The mean preoperative air-bone gap was (28.67±6.58)dB HL, while it was (13.63±7.33)dB HL at postoperative 6 month (t=11.862，P<0.01).The mean air conduction threshold and the mean preoperative air-bone gap were significantly improved compared with those preoperative (P<0.01). Tympanometry test was "A" type at postoperative 6 month. Conclusion:The treatment of attic retraction pocket by otoendoscopes through external auditory canal has the advantages of clear image, wide field of vision, simple operation, less trauma, short operation time, accurate effect, and can reduce the residual and recurrence of lesions.

Difference Analysis Based on 16S rRNA Sequencing of Different Soil Bacterial Communities

Abstract

Objective To study the structure and differences of bacterial communities in different soils, and to explore the effectiveness of 16S rRNA sequencing in identification of different soil. Methods Soil samples from 7 places in Shanghai were collected, then bacterial genomic DNA were extracted from them. The fragments of hypervariable region from 16S rRNA sequences were sequenced with high-throughput sequencing techniques. The results were quantified or visualized with bioinformatics software. The differences in diversity and abundance among the three kinds of bacterial communities in soil samples from grassland, forests and beaches were compared and analyzed. Results The statistical differences that existed among the alpha diversity indexes of bacterial communities in soil samples of grassland, forests and beaches had statistical significance. The relative abundance and diversity of bacterial communities in these three kinds of soil were significantly different. Grassland soil had higher Acidobacteria abundance, forest soil had higher Proteobacteria abundance, beach soil had higher Actinobacteria abundance. However, the differences in soil bacterial communities in artificial grasslands, natural grasslands and industrial district grasslands did not have statistical significance. Conclusion 16S rRNA sequencing can effectively distinguish different soils. This method may be able to provide clues for first crime scene inference in criminal cases.

Comparison of anti-inflammatory effects of berberine, and its natural oxidative and reduced derivatives from Rhizoma Coptidis in vitro and in vivo

BACKGROUND

Berberine (BBR) is the most abundant and major active constituent of Rhizoma Coptidis (RC), which has been widely used to treat inflammatory diseases in traditional oriental medicine. Despite BBR has been found to exhibit pronounced anti-inflammatory effect, the anti-inflammatory activities of its natural derivatives were sparsely dissected out.

PURPOSE

To comparatively investigate the anti-inflammatory potential of BBR, and its natural oxoderivative (oxyberberine, OBB) and reduced derivative (dihydroberberine, DHBB) in vitro and in vivo, and delineate the possible underlying mechanism.

METHODS

LC-MS/MS was used to identify the natural derivatives of BBR in RC. The potential anti-inflammatory properties of BBR and its natural derivatives were comparatively evaluated in vitro by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 macrophages cells, and in vivo via three typical acute inflammation murine models. Some important inflammation-related molecules were analyzed by ELISA, qRT-PCR and Western blotting.

RESULTS

LC-MS/MS led to the identification of BBR, OBB and DHBB in RC ethyl acetate extract. The in vitro assay indicated that BBR, OBB and DHBB (1.25, 2.5 and 5 μM) pretreatment significantly decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), prostaglandinE2 (PGE₂) and nitricoxide (NO), and inhibited the mRNA expressions of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitricoxide synthase (iNOS) in a dose-dependent manner, with relative efficiency of OBB > BBR > DHBB. Furthermore, OBB, BBR and DHBB remarkably inhibited the phosphorylation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) p65 and inhibitory kappa Bα (IκBα). In vivo, BBR (20 mg/kg) and OBB (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg) pretreatment significantly ameliorated the xylene-induced ear edema, carrageenan-stimulated paw edema, and acetic acid-elicited vascular permeability in mice in a dose-dependent manner, with OBB exhibiting superior anti-inflammatory effect at the same dose (20 mg/kg). Histopathological analysis indicated that OBB and BBR could markedly attenuate the inflammatory deterioration and decrease the cellular infiltration in paw tissues. Additionally, the carrageenan-induced increases in TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, PGE₂ and NO productions, and COX-2 and iNOS mRNA expressions were effectually and concentration-dependently suppressed by OBB and BBR pretreatment.

CONCLUSION

The anti-inflammatory activity of BBR and its natural derivatives was in the order of OBB > BBR > DHBB. OBB was for the first time found to be endowed with pronounced anti-inflammatory property, which was probably associated with suppressing the activation of NF-κB signaling pathway, and the subsequent gene expressions and productions of pro-inflammatory mediators. The results might contribute to illuminating the pharmacodynamic underpinnings of RC and provide evidence for developing OBB as a safe and promising natural lead compound in inflammation treatment.

Tetrahydrocurcumin and octahydrocurcumin, the primary and final hydrogenated metabolites of curcumin, possess superior hepatic-protective effect against acetaminophen-induced liver injury: Role of CYP2E1 and Keap1-Nrf2 pathway

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose-induced hepatotoxicity is tightly associated with oxidative stress. Tetrahydrocurcumin (THC) and octahydrocurcumin (OHC), the primary and final hydrogenated metabolites of curcumin (CUR), possess stronger antioxidant activity in vitro. The present study was performed to investigate the potential and mechanism of OHC and THC against APAP-induced hepatotoxicity in parallel to CUR. Our results showed that OHC and THC dose-dependently enhanced liver function (ALT and AST levels) and alleviated histopathological deterioration. Besides, OHC and THC significantly restored the hepatic antioxidant status by miring level of MDA and ROS, and elevated levels of GSH, SOD, CAT and T-AOC. In addition, OHC and THC markedly suppressed the activity and expressions of CYP2E1, and bound to the active sites of CYP2E1. Moreover, OHC and THC activated the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway and enormously enhanced the translational activation of Nrf2-targeted gene (GCLC, GCLM, NQO1 and HO-1) against oxidative stress, via inhibiting the expression of Keap1 and blocking the interaction between Keap1 and Nrf2. Particularly, OHC and THC exerted superior hepato-protective and antioxidant activities to CUR. In conclusion, OHC and THC possess favorable hepato-protective effect through restoring antioxidant status, inhibiting CYP2E1 and activating Keap1-Nrf2 pathway, which might represent promising antioxidants for the treatment of APAP-induced hepatotoxicity.

Curcumin's Metabolites, Tetrahydrocurcumin and Octahydrocurcumin, Possess Superior Anti-inflammatory Effects in vivo Through Suppression of TAK1-NF-κB Pathway

Curcumin (CUR), a promising naturally occurring dietary compound, is commonly recognized as the potential anti-inflammatory agent. While the application of CUR was hampered by its low stability and poor systemic bioavailability, it has been suggested that the biological activities of CUR are intimately related to its metabolites. In the current investigation, we aimed to comparatively explore the anti-inflammatory effects of tetrahydrocurcumin (THC), octahydrocurcumin (OHC), and CUR, and to elucidate the underlying action mechanisms on experimental mice models of acute inflammation, i.e., xylene-induced ear edema, acetic acid-induced vascular permeability, and carrageenan-induced paw edema. The results showed that THC and OHC exerted significant and dose-dependent inhibitions on the formation of ear edema induced by xylene and paw edema provoked by carrageenan and inhibited the Evans blue dye leakage in peritoneal cavity elicited by acetic acid. Moreover, THC and OHC treatments were more effective than CUR in selectively inhibiting the expression of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) and suppressing nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathways via transforming growth factor β activated kinase-1 (TAK1) inactivation in the carrageenan-induced mouse paw edema model.

[A study of the curative effect of endoscopic-assisted posterior nasal neurotomy on patients with moderate severe persistent allergic rhinitis]

Objective:To investigate the feasibility and effect of endoscopic-assisted posterior nasal neurotomy on patients with moderate-severe persistent allergic rhinitis (AR).Method:Endoscopic-assisted posterior nasal neurotomy were operated on 32 moderate-severe persistent AR patients who were insensitive to drugs and desensitization treatment,and curative effect were evaluated by scoring according to the diagnosis and curative effect evaluation standard of AR.Result:Follow-up evaluations were perfected after one year. Among them 17 cases were markedly effective,15 cases were effective,and the rate of total effective was 100%,without complications such as nose bleeds,dry eye,etc.Conclusion:The advantages of endoscopic-assisted posterior nasal neurotomy on moderate-severe persistent allergic rhinitis patients include the localization of posterior nasal nerve is clear,easy to operate,the short-term effect is remarkable,and less complications,therefore it's worth using on the AR patients who are failing in drugs and specific immune treatment.

Angelica sinensis Supercritical Fluid CO2 Extract Attenuates D-Galactose-Induced Liver and Kidney Impairment in Mice by Suppressing Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

Angelica sinensis (AS, Danggui in Chinese) is an important herbal component of various traditional formulae for the management of asthenia and its tonic effects. Although AS has been shown to ameliorate cognitive damage and nerve toxicity in D-galactose (D-gal)-elicited senescent mice brain, its effects on liver and kidney injury have not yet been explored. In this work, mice were subjected to hypodermic injection with D-gal (200 mg/kg) and orally gavaged with AS (20, 40, or 80 mg/kg) once a day for 8 successive weeks. Results revealed that AS significantly improved liver and kidney function as assessed by organ index and functional parameters. In addition, AS pretreatment effectively ameliorated the histological deterioration. AS attenuated the MDA level and markedly enhanced the activities and gene expressions of antioxidative enzymes, namely Cu, Zn-SOD, CAT, and GPx. Furthermore, AS markedly inhibited the D-gal-mediated increment of expressions of inflammatory cytokines iNOS, COX-2, IκBα, p-IκBα, and p65 and promoted the IκBα expression level in both hepatic and renal tissues. In sum, AS pretreatment could effectively guard the liver and kidney of mice from D-gal-induced injury, and the underlying mechanism was deemed to be intimately related to attenuating oxidative response and inflammatory stress.

Efficacy and indication optimization of Chinese medicine (Tiao-Chang Ke-Min granules) for diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic, recurring condition, prevalent in the general population. Current medication treatments usually leave patients undertreated. Nowadays, Chinese medicine (CM) is being considered as a promising treatment approach for IBS. However, due to methodological limitations, there is no strong evidence to support CM. Although IBS relapses are common, the relapse assessment has always been neglected in CM study designs. Meanwhile, in clinical practice and studies, it has been found that certain CM formulas can only benefit certain kinds of patients. Discovering what population and illness characteristics likely respond to outcomes may help improve the effectiveness of CM. The aims of this study are to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Tiao-Chang Ke-Min (TCKM) granules for IBS, especially in reducing IBS symptoms' relapse, by a high-quality randomized controlled trial and then to optimize the indication of the TCKM granules.

METHODS/DESIGN

This is a parallel-group, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial embedded with outcome predictive factors. Eligible patients with diarrhea-predominant IBS will be randomized into either a TCKM granule group or a placebo group. Patients from both groups will receive health education. The treatment duration is 4 weeks and the follow-up is 12 weeks. The primary outcome is global improvement measured with adequate relief (AR). The second outcome measures include time until relief, time until first relapse, total relapse times, long-term effectiveness, individual symptoms, IBS-Symptom Severity Score (IBS-SSS), IBS-Quality of Life Questionnaire (IBS-QOL), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Predictive factors associated with patient and illness characteristics have been widely collected. These factors will be embedded in this trial for further identification.

DISCUSSION

This trial may provide high-quality evidence on the efficacy and safety of TCKM granules for IBS and a more accurate indication. Importantly, this trial will provide a new research method for improving the therapeutic effects of CM for clinicians and researchers. To address IBS relapse assessment, a series of special definitions of relapse incidents has been made for this trial.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ID: ChiCTR-IOR-17010600 . Registered on 9 February 2017.

[Transcanal endoscopic ear surgery for tympanosclerosis]

Objective:To report surgical techniques, outcomes, clinical experience and application key point of transcanal endoscopic ear surgery for tympanosclerosis. Method: Data from 25 patients (13 males and 12 females; aged 27-61 years, mean=48.8 years) who underwent transcanal endoscopic ear surgery for tympanosclerosis in our department from January 2016 to June 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. Removal of tympanosclerosis and tympanoplasty were individualized. Patients were followed up at postoperative 1, 3 and 6 month. Result: There were no failure of tympanal reconstruction by sandwich. The mean preoperative air conduction threshold was higher than that of postoperation ［(51.12±16.03）dB HL and （31.64±12.76)dB HL, respectively］(P<0.01). The mean preoperative air-bone gap was significantly increased compared to that of postoperation ［(30.33±10.12）dB and （14.19±8.97）dB,respectively］ (P<0.01). There were no complication, recurrence, residual tympanosclerosis or secondary surgery needed. Conclusion: Stand alone transcanal endoscopic ear surgery was a safe and effective method for tympanosclerosis.

[Pathological analysis and treatments of neck infection induced by congenital pyriform sinus fistula]

Objective:To identify the pathogenic bacteria of CPSF and their resistance to antibiotics,and guide the rational use of antibiotics therapy.Method:One hundred and thirty cases of deep neck infection whose imaging finding depicted patients with suspected as CPSF were enrolled in the study from January 2010 to June 2017.Specimens were collected from abscesses or other inflammatory lesions from all patients through a small incision or the external orifice on the skin of the neck.Result:A total of 108 strains of pathogens have been isolated from 88 patients (positive rate: 67.7%), among which the gram-positive bacteria accounted for 56.5%, gram-negative bacteria accounted for 43.5%. Streptococcus and Staphylococcus aureus (22.2%) were the most common pathogens among young patients (≤14 years old) (17.7%);Klebsiellapneumoniae (15.7%) were the most common pathogens among the patients over 14 years old. Separation of pathogenic bacteria have maintained a low resistance to most antibiotics. G+ bacteria is totally sensitive to quinupristin/dalfopristin and vancomycin; G-bacteria is totally sensitive to cefoperazone/Batan, piperacillin/tazobactam,imipenem.Conclusion:Most of pathogens come from upper respiratory tract in CPSF cases, and are mostly sensitive to βlactamase.

[Research Progress of CircRNA and Its Application Prospect in Forensic Medicine]

Circular RNA （circRNA） is a type of noncoding RNA with tissue specificity and high stability, which forms a closed continuous loop and is abundantly expressed in tissue cells. According to recent research, the regulatory function of circRNA elucidating in the occurrence and development of disease shows a potential for diagnosing clinical disease and revealing disease mechanism. This paper reviews the biological characteristics, analysis methods of circRNA and its research progress in clinical application as biomarker, and outlooks its application in the field of forensic medicine.

A novel HLA class I allele: HLA-A*11:01:49

The HLA-A*11:01:49 allele differs from A*11:01:01:01 by one synonymous nucleotide substitution at position 837.

Polydatin attenuates d-galactose-induced liver and brain damage through its anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects in mice

Accumulating evidence has shown that chronic injection of d-galactose (d-gal) can mimic natural aging, with accompanying liver and brain injury. Oxidative stress and apoptosis play a vital role in the aging process. In this study, the antioxidant ability of polydatin (PD) was investigated using four established in vitro systems. An in vivo study was also conducted to investigate the possible protective effect of PD on d-gal-induced liver and brain damage. The results showed that PD had remarkable in vitro free radical scavenging activity on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH˙), 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzo-thiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS⁺˙) radical ions, and hydroxyl and superoxide anions. Results in vivo indicated that, in a group treated with d-gal plus PD, PD remarkably decreased the depression of body weight and organ indexes, reduced the levels of the serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alleviated alterations in liver and brain histopathology. PD also significantly decreased the level of MDA and elevated SOD, GSH-Px, CAT activity and T-AOC levels in the liver and brain. In addition, the levels of inflammatory mediators, such as TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 in serum were markedly reduced after PD treatment. Western blotting results revealed that PD treatment noticeably attenuated the d-gal-induced elevation of Bcl-2/Bax ratio and caspase-3 protein expression in liver and brain. Overall, our findings indicate that PD treatment could effectively attenuate d-gal-induced liver and brain damage, and the mechanism might be associated with decreasing the oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis caused by d-gal. PD holds good potential for further development into a promising pharmaceutical candidate for the treatment of age-associated diseases.

Characterization of the novel HLA-B*40:01:31 allele

The HLA-B*40:01:31 allele differs from B*40:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution at position 216.

Synergistic antitumor effect of brusatol combined with cisplatin on colorectal cancer cells

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common and life-threatening type of malignant cancer, which is associated with a high mortality rate. Cisplatin (CDDP) is a commonly used chemotherapy drug with significant side effects. Brusatol (BR) is one of the principal chemical compounds isolated from the Chinese herb Bruceae Fructus, which has been reported to markedly inhibit the proliferation of numerous cancer cell lines. The present study aimed to investigate the possible synergistic anticancer effects of CDDP combined with BR on CT-26 cells, and to evaluate the underlying mechanisms of action. The growth inhibitory effects of BR, CDDP, and BR and CDDP cotreatment on CT-26 cells were assessed by MTT assay. Cell apoptosis were determined by flow cytometry and western blot analysis. The results indicated that compared with single-agent treatment, cotreatment of CT-26 cells with CDDP and BR synergistically inhibited cell proliferation and increased cellular apoptosis. Furthermore, treatment of CT-26 cells with CDDP and BR resulted in a marked increase in the release of cytosolic cytochrome c, decreased expression of procaspase-3 and procaspase-9, and upregulation of the B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-associated X protein/Bcl-2 ratio compared with treatment with BR or CDDP alone. These results strongly suggested that the combination of CDDP and BR was able to produce a synergistic antitumor effect in CRC cells, thus providing a solid foundation for further development of this combination regimen into an effective therapeutic method for CRC.

Protective effects of silymarin on triptolide-induced acute hepatotoxicity in rats

Silymarin has been used in the treatment of a number of liver diseases for a long time, but its efficacy in preventing triptolide induced acute hepatotoxicity has not been reported previously. The present study aimed to assess the protective effect of silymarin against triptolide (TP)-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Rats were orally administrated with silymarin (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) for 7 days and received intraperitoneal TP (2 mg/kg) on the day 8. Hepatic injuries were comprehensively evaluated in terms of serum parameters, morphological changes, oxidative damage, inflammation and apoptosis. The results demonstrated that TP-induced increases in serum parameters, including alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total cholesterol and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase, which were determined using a biochemical analyzer, and histopathological alterations and hepatocyte apoptosis as determined by hematoxylin and eosin and TUNEL staining, respectively, were prevented by silymarin pretreatment in a dose-dependent manner. TP-induced depletions in the activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione S-transferase and catalase, and glutathione levels, were also significantly reversed by silymarin, as determined using specific kits. Additionally, silymarin dose-dependently exhibited inhibitory effects on malonaldehyde content in the liver. The production of proinflammatory cytokines was investigated using ELISA kits, and the results demonstrated that silymarin dose-dependently inhibited the production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10 and IL-1β in the liver. To determine the mechanism of silymarin, western blot analysis was performed to investigate the protein expression of phosphorylated (p)-p38 and p-c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) of the TNF-α induced inflammatory response and apoptotic pathways. Silymarin significantly blocked p38 and JNK phosphorylation and activation. Additionally, the expression of the proapoptotic proteins cytochrome c, cleaved caspase-3 and Bcl-2-associated X was also reduced following treatment with silymarin, as determined by ELISA, western blotting and immunohistochemistry, respectively. In conclusion, silymarin was demonstrated to dose-dependently protect rat liver from TP-induced acute hepatotoxicity, with the high dose (200 mg/kg) achieving a superior effect. This protective effect may be associated with the improvement of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory status, as well as the prevention of hepatocyte apoptosis. Therefore, silymarin may have the potential to be applied clinically to prevent TP-induced acute hepatotoxicity.

A novel HLA-B allele: HLA-B*40:241

The HLA-B*40:241 allele differs from B*40:01:01 by 1 nucleotide substitution at position 691.

Brucein D, a Naturally Occurring Tetracyclic Triterpene Quassinoid, Induces Apoptosis in Pancreatic Cancer through ROS-Associated PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway

Brucein D (BD), a major active quassinoid in Brucea javanica, has exhibited pronounced anticancer activities. However, the biologic mechanisms have not been fully explored. In this study, BD exhibited more potent cytotoxic effect on pancreatic cancer (PanCa) cell lines, while exerted weaker cytotoxic effects on GES-1 cells (non-tumorigenic). BD was shown to elicit apoptosis through inducing both the intrinsic and extrinsic mitochondria-mediated caspase activations. Furthermore, the BD-induced apoptotic effects were dependent on the accumulated reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inactivation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Pretreatment with tempol completely prevented the cellular apoptosis induced by BD, and recovered the inactivation of AKT, which suggested ROS essentially involved in BD-elicited apoptosis and down-regulation of PI3K/Akt pathway. In addition, the results obtained from orthotopic xenograft in nude mice were congruent with those of the in vitro investigations. These results support the notion that BD held good potential to be further developed into an effective pharmaceutical agent for the treatment of PanCa.

A novel HLA-B allele: HLA-B*40:242

The HLA-B*40:242 allele differs from B*40:54 by 1 nucleotide substitution at position 190.

The immune-regulating effect of Xiao'er Qixingcha in constipated mice induced by high-heat and high-protein diet

Background

Xiao’er Qixingcha (EXQ) has been extensively applied to relieve dyspepsia and constipation in children for hundreds of years in China. However, the therapeutic mechanism underlying its efficacy remained to be defined. The present study aimed to clarify the possible laxative and immune-regulating effects of EXQ on two models of experimental constipation in mice, which mimicked the pediatric constipation caused by high-heat and high-protein diet (HHPD).

Methods

The two models of constipated mice were induced by HHPD or HHPD + atropine respectively. To investigate the laxative and immune-regulating activities of EXQ, animals were treated with three doses of EXQ (0.75, 1.5 and 3 g/kg) for 7 consecutive days. The fecal output parameters (number and weight), weight of intestinal content and, the thymus and spleen indexes were measured. The levels of sIgA, IL-10, TNF-α and LPS in colon and serum were determined by ELISA. Furthermore, the pathological changes of colon tissue were examined after routine H&E staining.

Results

Both HHPD and HHPD + atropine treatments obviously inhibited the fecal output and reduced the colonic sIgA, prominently increased the levels of IL-10 and TNF-α in colonic tissue and elevated the contents of LPS in serum and colonic tissues. In contrast, oral administration of EXQ significantly improved the feces characters and dose-dependently decreased the intestinal changes in both models. In HHPD model test, EXQ efficaciously boosted the sIgA level in a dose-dependent manner, significantly elicited decreases in TNF-α and IL-10 levels, and evidently decreased the spleen and thymus indexes. In HHPD + atropine model test, EXQ treatment reversed the pathological changes by not only dramatically decreasing the spleen index and the levels of LPS and IL-10, but also markedly elevating the thymus index. Furthermore, microscopic observation revealed that EXQ treatment maintained the integrity of colonic mucosa, and protected the colonic tissues from inflammation in the both models.

Conclusions

EXQ exhibited prominent laxative activity and effectively protected the colonic mucosal barrier in two models of constipated mice, of which the mechanism might be closely associated with its propulsive and immune-regulating properties. The current results not only validated the rationale for the clinical application of EXQ in pediatric constipation related symptoms, but also threw new light on the immune-inflammatory responses accompanied with chronic constipation pathology.

Characterization of the novel HLA-DRB1*11:01:20 allele

The HLA- DRB1*11:01:20 allele differs from DRB1*11:01:01:01 by 1 nucleotide substitution at position 219.

Anti-inflammatory effects of Brucea javanica oil emulsion by suppressing NF-κB activation on dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Brucea javanica is an important traditional medicinal herb used for the treatment of dysentery, malaria, inflammation and cancer in southeast Asia for many years. However, the anti-inflammatory mechanism of Brucea javanica in the treatment of dysentery (also known as ulcerative colitis, UC) has not been fully illuminated. Brucea javanica oil emulsion (BJOE) is the major active and most common application form of Brucea javanica oil (BJO), which has a variety of pharmacological activities. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential anti-inflammatory effect of BJOE and possible mechanism of action on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The components of BJOE were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Balb/C mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS, 30mg/mL) induced colitis were treated with BJOE (0.5, 1 and 2g/kg) and two positive drugs (sulfasalazine, SASP, 200mg/kg; and azathioprine, AZA, 13mg/kg) once daily by gavage for 7 days. Mice in normal control group and DSS group were orally given the same volume of distilled water and soybean lecithin suspension (0.15g/kg) respectively. The effects of BJOE on DSS-induced UC were assessed by determination of body weight loss, disease activity index (DAI), colon length, histological analysis, as well as levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The mRNA expression of MPO, iNOS and COX-2 in colon tissues was detected by qRT-PCR. In addition, NF-κB p65, p-p65 and IκB-α, p-IκBα protein expression levels in colon tissues were investigated using Western blotting.

RESULTS

The major components of BJOE were found to be oleic acid (62.68%) and linoleic acid (19.53%) as detected by GC-MS. Our results indicated that BJOE, SASP and AZA showed beneficial effect on DSS-induced colitis in mice, and significantly reduced the body weight loss and DAI, restored the colon length, repaired colonic pathological variations, decreased histological scores, and decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17 and IFN-γ) as compared with the DSS group. In addition, the mRNA expression of MPO, iNOS and COX-2 induced by DSS treatment was remarkably inhibited by BJOE, SASP or AZA treatments. Furthermore, when compared with DSS-treated mice, the activation of NF-κB was significantly inhibited by AZA and BJOE treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that BJOE possessed appreciable anti-inflammatory effect against murine experimental UC induced by DSS. The protective mechanism of BJOE may involve inhibition of NF-κB signal transduction pathways and subsequent down-regulation of inflammatory mediators. These findings suggest that BJOE might be an efficacious and promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of UC. Our investigation might also provide experimental evidence for the traditional application of Brucea javanica in the treatment of dysentery and might add new dimension to the clinical indications for BJOE.

Inhibition of Helicobacter pylori and Its Associated Urease by Palmatine: Investigation on the Potential Mechanism

In this paper, we evaluated the anti-Helicobacter pylori activity and the possible inhibitory effect on its associated urease by Palmatine (Pal) from Coptis chinensis, and explored the potential underlying mechanism. Results indicated that Pal exerted inhibitory effect on four tested H. pylori strains (ATCC 43504, NCTC 26695, SS1 and ICDC 111001) by the agar dilution test with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 100 to 200 μg/mL under neutral environment (pH 7.4), and from 75 to 100 μg/mL under acidic conditions (pH 5.3), respectively. Pal was observed to significantly inhibit both H. pylori urease (HPU) and jack bean urease (JBU) in a dose-dependent manner, with IC50 values of 0.53 ± 0.01 mM and 0.03 ± 0.00 mM, respectively, as compared with acetohydroxamic acid, a well-known urease inhibitor (0.07 ± 0.01 mM for HPU and 0.02 ± 0.00 mM for JBU, respectively). Kinetic analyses showed that the type of urease inhibition by Pal was noncompetitive for both HPU and JBU. Higher effectiveness of thiol protectors against urease inhibition than the competitive Ni2+ binding inhibitors was observed, indicating the essential role of the active-site sulfhydryl group in the urease inhibition by Pal. DTT reactivation assay indicated that the inhibition on the two ureases was reversible, further supporting that sulfhydryl group should be obligatory for urease inhibition by Pal. Furthermore, molecular docking study indicated that Pal interacted with the important sulfhydryl groups and inhibited the active enzymatic conformation through N-H ∙ π interaction, but did not interact with the active site Ni2+. Taken together, Pal was an effective inhibitor of H. pylori and its urease targeting the sulfhydryl groups, representing a promising candidate as novel urease inhibitor. This investigation also gave additional scientific support to the use of C. chinensis to treat H. pylori-related gastrointestinal diseases in traditional Chinese medicine. Pal might be a potentially beneficial therapy for gastritis and peptic ulcers induced by H. pylori infection and other urease-related diseases.

[Expressions of angiogenesis-related factors: CD105, EphA2 and EphrinA1 in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma and clinical implication]

Objective: To investigate the expressions of endoglin (CD105), erythropoietin-producing hepatocyte receptor A2 (EphA2) and its ligand ephrinA1 proteins in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) and the relationship between their expressions and the clinicopathological factors of LSCC. Methods: The expressions of CD105, EphA2 and EphrinA1 proteins were detected with immunohistochemical staining in LSCC in 76 cases and adjacent normal laryngeal tissues (ANLT) (S-P) in 25 cases.SPSS 17.0 software was used to analyze the data. Results: The mean microvessel density (MVD) value marked by CD105 staining in LSCC was 10.33±2.29, which was significantly higher than that in ANLT(1.20±1.04, t=18.732, P<0.05). The CD105-MVD was correlated with T stage, histological grading, clinical stage, lymph node metastasis, recurrence and prognosis in LSCC (F value was 5.34, 4.79, 5.36, t value was -2.70, 2.56, all P<0.05). The positive expression rates of EphA2 and EphrinA1 in LSCC were 78.95% (60/76), and 81.85% (62/76), which were respectively significantly higher than 40% (10/25) for EphA2 expression and 44% (11/25) for EphrinA1, expression in ANLT (χ² value was 13.41, 13.26, both P<0.05). EphA2 expression was correlated with histological grading, T stage, clinical stage, lymph node metastasis, recurrence and prognosis in LSCC (χ² value was 6.25, 14.60, 15.11, 8.52, 5.54, all P<0.05). EphrinA1 expression was correlated with T stage, clinical stage, lymph node metastasis, recurrence and prognosis in LSCC (χ² value was 6.44, 12.28, 16.78, 6.44, all P<0.05). The expressions of CD105, EphA2 and EphrinA1 were positively correlated with each other r value was 0.72, 0.74, 0.64, all P<0.05. Survival analysis indicated that the expressions of CD105 and EphA2, histological grading, lymph node metastasis, clinical stage and recurrence were independent factors for tumor prognosis in LSCC (P<0.05). Conclusions: The expressions of CD105, EphA2 and EphrinA1 protein were positively correlated with each other in LSCC. They may play important roles in the tumorigenesis, malignant progression and poor prognosis of LSCC.