[The facility design and operation effect of control vehicle emissions hazard in test section of automobile assembly workshop]

The hazard of vehicle emissions mainly come from the four wheel positioning, drum test and vehicle emissions test sections in automobile assembly workshop, which can lead to abnormal hemoglobin and hepatic insufficiency in workers. We researched on preventing toxic gases technologies for the vehicle emissions generated by these three sections, designed the ventilation facilities, and then detected and evaluated the operation effect, thereby improving the working environment, ensuring the occupational health of workers, and providing scientific basis for the control of vehicle emissions hazards.

Pathogenic variants in SMARCA1 cause an X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder modulated by NURF complex composition

Pathogenic variants in ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling proteins are a recurrent cause of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). The NURF complex consists of BPTF and either the SNF2H (SMARCA5) or SNF2L (SMARCA1) ISWI-chromatin remodeling enzyme. Pathogenic variants in BPTF and SMARCA5 were previously implicated in NDDs. Here, we describe 40 individuals from 30 families with de novo or maternally inherited pathogenic variants in SMARCA1. This novel NDD was associated with mild to severe ID/DD, delayed or regressive speech development, and some recurrent facial dysmorphisms. Individuals carrying SMARCA1 loss-of-function variants exhibited a mild genome-wide DNA methylation profile and a high penetrance of macrocephaly. Genetic dissection of the NURF complex using Smarca1, Smarca5, and Bptfsingle and double mouse knockouts revealed the importance of NURF composition and dosage for proper forebrain development. Finally, we propose that genetic alterations affecting different NURF components result in a NDD with a broad clinical spectrum.

[A multicenter epidemiological study of acute bacterial meningitis in children]

Objective: To analyze the clinical epidemiological characteristics including composition of pathogens , clinical characteristics, and disease prognosis acute bacterial meningitis (ABM) in Chinese children. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical and laboratory data of 1 610 children <15 years of age with ABM in 33 tertiary hospitals in China from January 2019 to December 2020. Patients were divided into different groups according to age,<28 days group, 28 days to <3 months group, 3 months to <1 year group, 1-<5 years of age group, 5-<15 years of age group; etiology confirmed group and clinically diagnosed group according to etiology diagnosis. Non-numeric variables were analyzed with the Chi-square test or Fisher's exact test, while non-normal distrituction numeric variables were compared with nonparametric test. Results: Among 1 610 children with ABM, 955 were male and 650 were female (5 cases were not provided with gender information), and the age of onset was 1.5 (0.5, 5.5) months. There were 588 cases age from <28 days, 462 cases age from 28 days to <3 months, 302 cases age from 3 months to <1 year of age group, 156 cases in the 1-<5 years of age and 101 cases in the 5-<15 years of age. The detection rates were 38.8% (95/245) and 31.5% (70/222) of Escherichia coli and 27.8% (68/245) and 35.1% (78/222) of Streptococcus agalactiae in infants younger than 28 days of age and 28 days to 3 months of age; the detection rates of Streptococcus pneumonia, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus agalactiae were 34.3% (61/178), 14.0% (25/178) and 13.5% (24/178) in the 3 months of age to <1 year of age group; the dominant pathogens were Streptococcus pneumoniae and the detection rate were 67.9% (74/109) and 44.4% (16/36) in the 1-<5 years of age and 5-<15 years of age . There were 9.7% (19/195) strains of Escherichia coli producing ultra-broad-spectrum β-lactamases. The positive rates of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture and blood culture were 32.2% (515/1 598) and 25.0% (400/1 598), while 38.2% (126/330)and 25.3% (21/83) in CSF metagenomics next generation sequencing and Streptococcus pneumoniae antigen detection. There were 4.3% (32/790) cases of which CSF white blood cell counts were normal in etiology confirmed group. Among 1 610 children with ABM, main intracranial imaging complications were subdural effusion and (or) empyema in 349 cases (21.7%), hydrocephalus in 233 cases (14.5%), brain abscess in 178 cases (11.1%), and other cerebrovascular diseases, including encephalomalacia, cerebral infarction, and encephalatrophy, in 174 cases (10.8%). Among the 166 cases (10.3%) with unfavorable outcome, 32 cases (2.0%) died among whom 24 cases died before 1 year of age, and 37 cases (2.3%) had recurrence among whom 25 cases had recurrence within 3 weeks. The incidences of subdural effusion and (or) empyema, brain abscess and ependymitis in the etiology confirmed group were significantly higher than those in the clinically diagnosed group (26.2% (207/790) vs. 17.3% (142/820), 13.0% (103/790) vs. 9.1% (75/820), 4.6% (36/790) vs. 2.7% (22/820), χ²=18.71, 6.20, 4.07, all P<0.05), but there was no significant difference in the unfavorable outcomes, mortility, and recurrence between these 2 groups (all P>0.05). Conclusions: The onset age of ABM in children is usually within 1 year of age, especially <3 months. The common pathogens in infants <3 months of age are Escherichia coli and Streptococcus agalactiae, and the dominant pathogen in infant ≥3 months is Streptococcus pneumoniae. Subdural effusion and (or) empyema and hydrocephalus are common complications. ABM should not be excluded even if CSF white blood cell counts is within normal range. Standardized bacteriological examination should be paid more attention to increase the pathogenic detection rate. Non-culture CSF detection methods may facilitate the pathogenic diagnosis.

Improvements in Awareness and Testing Have Led to a Threefold Increase Over 10 Years in the Identification of Monogenic Diabetes in the U.K

OBJECTIVE

Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) is a rare monogenic form of diabetes. In 2009, >80% of U.K. cases were estimated to be misdiagnosed. Since then, there have been a number of initiatives to improve the awareness and detection of MODY, including education initiatives (Genetic Diabetes Nurse [GDN] project), the MODY probability calculator, and targeted next-generation sequencing (tNGS). We examined how the estimated prevalence of MODY and other forms of monogenic diabetes diagnosed outside the neonatal period has changed over time and how the initiatives have impacted case finding.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

U.K. referrals for genetic testing for monogenic diabetes diagnosed >1 year of age from 1 January 1996 to 31 December 2019 were examined. Positive test rates were compared for referrals reporting GDN involvement/MODY calculator use with those that did not.

RESULTS

A diagnosis of monogenic diabetes was confirmed in 3,860 individuals, more than threefold higher than 2009 (1 January 1996 to 28 February 2009, n = 1,177). Median age at diagnosis in probands was 21 years. GDN involvement was reported in 21% of referrals; these referrals had a higher positive test rate than those without GDN involvement (32% vs. 23%, P < 0.001). MODY calculator usage was indicated in 74% of eligible referrals since 2014; these referrals had a higher positive test rate than those not using the calculator (33% vs. 25%, P = 0.001). Four hundred ten (10.6%) cases were identified through tNGS. Monogenic diabetes prevalence was estimated to be 248 cases/million (double that estimated in 2009 because of increased case finding).

CONCLUSIONS

Since 2009, referral rates and case diagnosis have increased threefold. This is likely to be the consequence of tNGS, GDN education, and use of the MODY calculator.

[Targeted killing of CD133+ lung cancer stem cells using paclitaxel-loaded PLGA-PEG nanoparticles with CD133 aptamers]

OBJECTIVE

To construct a polylactic acid-glycolic acid-polyethylene glycol (PLGA-PEG) nanocarrier (N-Pac-CD133) coupled with a CD133 nucleic acid aptamer carrying paclitaxel for eliminating lung cancer stem cells (CSCs).

METHODS

Paclitaxel-loaded N-Pac-CD133 was prepared using the emulsion/solvent evaporation method and characterized. CD133⁺ lung CSCs were separated by magnetic bead separation and identified for their biological behaviors and gene expression profile. The efficiency of paclitaxel-loaded N-Pac-CD133 for targeted killing of lung cancer cells was assessed in vitro. SCID mice were inoculated with A549 cells and received injections of normal saline, empty nanocarrier linked with CD133 aptamer (N-CD133), paclitaxel, paclitaxel-loaded nanocarrier (N-Pac) or paclitaxel-loaded N-Pac-CD133 (n=8, 5 mg/kg paclitaxel) on days 10, 15 and 20, and the tumor weight and body weight of the mice were measured on day 40.

RESULTS

Paclitaxel-loaded N-Pac-CD133 showed a particle size of about 100 nm with a high encapsulation efficiency (>80%) and drug loading rate (>8%), and was capable of sustained drug release within 48 h. The CD133⁺ cell population in lung cancer cells showed the characteristic features of lung CSCs, including faster growth rate (30 days, P=0.001) and high expressions of tumor stem cell markers OV6(P < 0.001), CD133 (P=0.001), OCT3/4 (P=0.002), EpCAM (P=0.04), NANOG (P=0.005) and CD44 (P=0.02). Compared with N-Pac and free paclitaxel, paclitaxel-loaded N-Pac-CD133 showed significantly enhanced targeting ability and cytotoxicity against lung CSCs in vitro (P < 0.001) and significantly reduced the formation of tumor spheres (P < 0.001). In the tumor-bearing mice, paclitaxel-loaded N-Pac-CD133 showed the strongest effects in reducing the tumor mass among all the treatments (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

CD133 aptamer can promote targeted delivery of paclitaxel to allow targeted killing of CD133⁺ lung CSCs. N-Pac-CD133 loaded with paclitaxel may provide an effective treatment for lung cancer by targeting the lung cancer stem cells.

[A case of paralytic intestinal obstruction caused by nifedipine poisoning]

Nifedipine is a typical dihydropyridine calcium antagonist, and large doses of intake can cause poisoning. This article retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of a patient with nifedipine poisoning complicated with paralytic intestinal obstruction admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Jilin University in October 2020. When the patient was admitted to the hospital, the symptoms of poisoning were decreased blood pressure and shock, followed by severe paralytic intestinal obstruction. Finally, after active hemoperfusion combined with hemofiltration and symptomatic supportive treatment, the patient's condition improved and was discharged. There was no discomfort in the follow-up 2 months later.

Screening key genes and biomarkers in gastrointestinal metaplasia that progress to gastric cancer by integrated bioinformatics analysis

This study aimed to screen the potential candidate genes and relevant biological markers associated with gastrointestinal metaplasia that progresses to gastric cancer (GIM-GC). Microarray datasets (GSE78523) were downloaded from the GEO database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between GIM-GC samples and healthy controls were identified. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were performed. STRING and Cytoscape were used to identify significant module and hub genes. Survival analysis was applied to identify key genes. A Venn diagram was built to find hub DEGs that differed in all three relevant comparisons (GIM-GC vs. healthy controls vs. GIM-NoGC). The clinical characteristics of the hub DEGs were evaluated using the Cancer Genome Atlas dataset. The study found 257 DEGs (217 upregulated and 40 downregulated). The upregulated DEGs were enriched in regulation of microvillus length and phospholipid binding and were components of the apical plasma membrane. Downregulated DEGs were involved in digestion and hormone activity and were found in the extracellular space. Fat digestion and absorption as well as gastric acid secretion were the pathways enrichment. The most important gene modules related mainly to O-glycan processing, extracellular exosome, hormone activity, and vitamin and fat digestion and absorption. Eleven hub genes were identified, of which APOB, FABP1, CDX2, GCG, HNF4A, SLC26A3, CFTR, MUC5AC, OLFM4, and SI were related to the prognosis. Olfactomedin-4 (OLFM4) was the most relevant DEG to identify GIM-GC. In conclusion: DEGs and hub genes are helpful to understand the molecular mechanisms of GIM-GC. OLFM4 may be a biological marker for GIM-GC.

[Cognition and related factors on the use of HIV non-occupational post-exposure prevention among men who have sex with men]

Objective: To understand the cognition and related factors on the use of HIV non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) among men who have sex with men (MSM). Methods: The snowballing method was applied to recruit research subjects who were ≥18 years old, had sex with men in the past three months, and were aware of nPEP in MSM groups in Beijing, Shenzhen, and Kunming from March 15 to April 14, 2019. Data on social demographics, behavioral characteristics, basic knowledge of nPEP, consultation, and using nPEP were collected through "i guardian Platform". The logistic regression model was used to analyze the related factors affecting the use of nPEP. Results: Among 1 809 investigated, 39.8% (720 persons) were aware of the basic knowledge of nPEP, 33.4% (605 persons) had consulted nPEP, and 15.0% (271 persons) had used nPEP. In addition, multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that factors as whether to have sex with men infected with HIV in the last three months (OR=2.58, 95%CI: 1.64-4.07), the frequency of HIV testing in the past year (OR=2.47, 95%CI: 1.28-5.11), nPEP knowledge awareness (OR=0.70, 95%CI: 0.49-0.99), whether to consult nPEP (OR=70.98, 95%CI: 40.51-136.83) were related to the use of nPEP. Conclusions: MSM still have poor cognition of nPEP. It is necessary to strengthen the publicity and education of nPEP in MSM and promote the use of nPEP after HIV exposure as soon as possible.

Clustered mutations in the GRIK2 kainate receptor subunit gene underlie diverse neurodevelopmental disorders

Kainate receptors (KARs) are glutamate-gated cation channels with diverse roles in the central nervous system. Bi-allelic loss of function of the KAR-encoding gene GRIK2 causes a nonsyndromic neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) with intellectual disability and developmental delay as core features. The extent to which mono-allelic variants in GRIK2 also underlie NDDs is less understood because only a single individual has been reported previously. Here, we describe an additional eleven individuals with heterozygous de novo variants in GRIK2 causative for neurodevelopmental deficits that include intellectual disability. Five children harbored recurrent de novo variants (three encoding p.Thr660Lys and two p.Thr660Arg), and four children and one adult were homozygous for a previously reported variant (c.1969G>A [p.Ala657Thr]). Individuals with shared variants had some overlapping behavioral and neurological dysfunction, suggesting that the GRIK2 variants are likely pathogenic. Analogous mutations introduced into recombinant GluK2 KAR subunits at sites within the M3 transmembrane domain (encoding p.Ala657Thr, p.Thr660Lys, and p.Thr660Arg) and the M3-S2 linker domain (encoding p.Ile668Thr) had complex effects on functional properties and membrane localization of homomeric and heteromeric KARs. Both p.Thr660Lys and p.Thr660Arg mutant KARs exhibited markedly slowed gating kinetics, similar to p.Ala657Thr-containing receptors. Moreover, we observed emerging genotype-phenotype correlations, including the presence of severe epilepsy in individuals with the p.Thr660Lys variant and hypomyelination in individuals with either the p.Thr660Lys or p.Thr660Arg variant. Collectively, these results demonstrate that human GRIK2 variants predicted to alter channel function are causative for early childhood development disorders and further emphasize the importance of clarifying the role of KARs in early nervous system development.

[Value of combined detection of ITGA4 and SFRP2 gene methylation in stool DNA in diagnosis and prognostic evaluation of colorectal tumors]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the value of quantitative detection of ITGA4 and SFRP2 gene methylation in stool DNA for the early diagnosis and prognostic evaluation of colorectal tumors.

OBJECTIVE

Real-time PCR was used for quantitative assessment of ITGA4 and SFRP2 gene methylation levels in stool samples of 85 patients with colorectal cancer, 65 patients with colorectal adenoma and 40 healthy subjects.

OBJECTIVE

The 3 groups were comparable for age and gender composition. Methylated ITGA4 and SFRP2 promoters were detected in 48.2% and 62.4% of patients with colorectal cancer, respectively, with a combined positivity of 81.2%. ITGA4 and SFRP2 promoter methylation was detected in 23.1% and 43.1% of patients with colorectal adenoma, respectively, with a combined positivity of 69.2%. The positivity rates of ITGA4 and SFRP2 methylation were significantly higher in patients with colorectal cancer than in those with colorectal adenoma (P < 0.001; P= 0.001) and healthy subjects (P < 0.001; P < 0.001). In colorectal cancer group, ITGA4 and SFRP2 promoter methylation levels were correlated with postoperative tumor recurrence in colorectal cancer group, and the relapse-free survival rate was significantly lower in positive patients for ITGA4 and SFRP2 promoter methylation than in the negative patients (P=0.0002; P=0.007). Multivariate analysis with the COX proportional hazard regression model showed that methylation of ITGA4 and SFRP2 gene promoters (P=0.01) and the degree of tumor differentiation (P=0.03) were associated with the recurrence of colorectal cancer, and were independent risk factors for the recurrence of colorectal cancer.

OBJECTIVE

Combined detection of ITGA4 and SFRP2 gene methylation levels in stool DNA can improve the early diagnosis rate of colorectal tumor. ITGA4 and SFRP2 promoter methylation and the degree of tumor differentiation are independent risk factors for colorectal cancer recurrence.

Retrospective Analysis on Traumatic Rupture of Intracranial Internal Carotid Artery in 11 Cases

Abstract

Objective To retrospectively analyze the characteristics of the traumatic rupture of intracranial internal carotid artery in order to provide reference for forensic expertise examination and identification. Methods A total of 11 autopsy cases of traumatic rupture of intracranial internal carotid artery were collected. The gender, age, cause of injury, blood loss on the scene, location of internal carotid artery rupture, hardening degree of the rupture of the wall, brain injury, blood ethanol content and cause of death were also recorded. Results All 11 cases died on the scene, of which 7 died from traffic accidents, 2 falls from height and 2 from bare handed injuries. None of the 11 victims suffered serious head and body surface injury. The internal carotid artery rupture in the 9 cases of traffic injury and fall from height injury occurred in the cavernous segment. In all these cases, there were transverse fractures of the middle cranial fossa with the carotid sulcus involved, and minor intracranial hemorrhage and brain contusion. In 2 cases of bare handed injuries, internal carotid artery rupture occurred in the ophthalmic artery segment, accompanied by fatal intracranial hemorrhage and diffuse axonal injury, but no skull fracture. All 11 cases showed full-thickness rupture of the vessel wall, and the long axis of the wounds was perpendicular to those of the artery. Conclusion The incidence of intracranial internal carotid artery rupture in high-energy trauma events such as traffic accidents and high falls deserves attention. Injuries of the cavernous segment or ophthalmic segment might be more common. The main injury mechanism of intracranial internal carotid artery rupture might be that the blood vessels were pulled and the bone fragments caused damage.

Growth phase-dependent surface properties of Legionella pneumophila and their role in adhesion to stainless steel coated QCM-D sensors

Legionella pneumophila cell surface hydrophobicity and charge are important determinants of their mobility and persistence in engineered water systems (EWS). These surface properties may differ depending on the growth phase of L. pneumophila resulting in variable adhesion and persistence within EWS. We describe the growth-dependent variations in L. pneumophila cell surface hydrophobicity and surface charge using the microbial adhesion to hydrocarbon assay and microelectrophoresis, respectively, and their role in cell adhesion to stainless steel using a quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D) monitoring instrument. We observed a steady increase in L. pneumophila hydrophobicity during their lifecycle in culture media. Cell surfaces of stationary phase L. pneumophila were significantly more hydrophobic than their lag and midexponential counterparts. No significant changes in L. pneumophila cell surface charge were noted. Morphology of L. pneumophila remained relatively constant throughout their lifecycle. In the QCM-D study, lag and exponential phase L. pneumophila weakly adhered to stainless steel surfaces resulting in viscoelastic layers. In contrast, stationary phase bacteria were tightly and irreversibly bound to the surfaces, forming rigid layers. Our results suggest that the stationary phase of L. pneumophila would highly favour their adhesion to plumbing surfaces and persistence in EWS.

Forensic Analysis of 105 Autopsy Cases of Psychiatric Patients

Abstract

Objective To provide reference for medical and health services and forensic expertise, the causes and manners of death of psychiatric patients were analyzed retrospectively. Methods A total of 105 autopsy cases of psychiatric patients accepted and settled by Institute of Forensic Science of Criminal Investigation Police University of China from 2004 to 2019 were collected. The cases were divided into four groups： disease death, suicidal death, accidental death and homicidal death. The common causes of death of each group were statistically analyzed and the differences in age, disease duration, body mass index （BMI） and gender among the groups were assessed. Results Of the 105 cases, 60 were male and 45 were female, the course of psychosis was （12.9±10.4） years, the age of the deceased was （51.3±11.4） years, and 61.0% was schizophrenic. There were 50 cases （47.6%） in the disease death group, in which the psychiatric patients were the oldest and had the longest course of psychosis and lowest BMI. Pulmonary thromboembolism, respiratory infections, and cardiogenic disease were the most common causes of death in the group. There were 26 accidental deaths （24.8%）, among which traffic accidents were the most common cause of death. There were 15 homicidal deaths （14.3%）, all of which were male, with craniocerebral injury being the most common cause of death. There were 14 suicidal deaths （13.3%）. In suicidal death group, the age of the deceased was the youngest, the course of psychosis was the shortest and falling from the height was the most common way to commit suicide. Conclusion Understanding the common causes of death of psychiatric patients may contribute to developing measures to reduce the mortality rate of the population. It is necessary to investigate the age, course of psychosis and gender of the deceased when assessing the manner of death.

[Association of D-dimer, inflammatory markers, cytokines abnormality, and disease severity in COVID-19 severe/critical patients in Wuhan]

Objective: To analyze the association of D-dimer levels, inflammatory indicators, cytokine abnormality, and disease severity in COVID-19 severe/critical type patients. Methods: The medical records of 41 patients were collected from a single center in Wuhan from February 8, 2020 to March 25, 2020. The patients were divided into severe type group (28 patients) and critical type group (13 patients) . The levels of D-dimer, WBC, ANC, PCT, hsCRP, IL-2R, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α were compared among patients with different clinical types of COVID-19 infection. Moreover, the changes in the cytokines were analyzed in patients with different D-dimer levels. And, the levels of D-dimer, IL-2R, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α before and after anticoagulant therapy were assessed. Statistical analyses were performed using Student t test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Chi-square test. Results: Among the 41 patients, 23 were men (56.1%) and 18 were women (43.9%) ; the median patient age was 57 y. The age of the critical type patients [ (61.1±10.4) y] was higher than that of severe type patients [ (52.8±11.7) y]; the difference was significant (t=-2.264, P=0.032) . The proportion of critical type patients with chronic diseases, especially hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and cerebrovascular disease, was higher as compared to that in those with severe type patients; the differences were significant (all P<0.05) . The prevalence of dyspnea, sweats, and fatigue symptoms in the critical type patients was higher than that in those with severe type disease; the differences were significant (χ(2)=14.898, 6.972, 7.823; P<0.001, 0.008, 0.005) . The levels of D-dimer, WBC, ANC, PCT, hsCRP, and IL-8 in critical type patients were higher than those in severe type patients; the differences were significant (all P<0.05) . The levels of IL-2R, IL-8, and TNF-α in patients with abnormal D-dimer were higher as compared to those in patients with normal D-dimer levels; the differences were significant (all P<0.05) . Eight patients were treated with prophylactic anticoagulation; the levels of D-dimer, IL-2R, IL-6 and IL-8 after anticoagulant therapy were lower than those before treatment. Conclusions: COVID-19 critical type patients have more serious coagulation-immune dysfunction and dynamic monitoring of D-dimer and cytokines levels helps in identifying critical type patients as early as possible; anticoagulant therapy may improve the patient's condition by correcting coagulation-immune dysfunction.

[Analysis of baseline characteristics and treatment status of hepatitis C in sentinel hospitals from 2017 to 2019]

Objective: To understand the hepatitis C diagnosis type, progression and treatment in medical institutions. Methods: Monitoring posts were set up in the secondary and tertiary-level hospitals in some parts of the country. Reported infectious diseases cases of hepatitis C in sentinel hospitals during the three consecutive years from 2017 to 2019 were investigated to understand their general demographic characteristics, diagnosis, liver fibrosis degree, and treatment. The diagnosis, treatment and related factors were analyzed by chi square test and trend. Results: A total of 16 241 cases of hepatitis C were investigated in three years. Among them, 7 538 cases were clinically diagnosed (46.41%) and 8703 cases (53.59%) were confirmed as hepatitis C. Among the confirmed cases, 60 cases (0.69%) were acute and 8643 cases (99.31%) were chronic. In the past three years, the proportion of cases diagnosed by liver diseases related departments decreased from 62.23% to 40.01%, while the proportion of medical and surgical cases of non-liver diseases increased from less than 30% to nearly 60%. The proportion of confirmed cases in secondary hospitals (26.27%) was significantly lower than that in tertiary hospitals (62.48%), and the difference was statistically significant (χ (2) = 1594.833, P < 0.001). There were also differences in the proportion of confirmed cases in different regions (P < 0.001). The cases with FIB-4 > 3.25 accounted for 35.78%, and the proportion was increased significantly with age (χ (2) trend = 1159.624, P < 0.001). The average proportion of antiviral treatment was less than 10%, and the proportion of antiviral treatment in secondary hospitals was very low (2.13%); however, the proportion of liver-protective monotherapy treatment was decreased from 30.40% in 2017 to 11.14% in 2019, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The large-scale screening of hepatitis C by medical institutions is increasing year by year, but only about half of the cases can be diagnosed, and the diagnostic capacity of secondary hospitals is particularly unsatisfactory. Most of the confirmed cases are chronic hepatitis C, and more than one third of them have abnormal liver fibrosis indicators, and the proportion increases with age. The proportion of antiviral treatment for hepatitis C is lower in secondary than tertiary-level hospitals. Therefore, there is an urgent need to raise the attention of both parties (doctors and patients) to enhance diagnostic capabilities and expand the coverage of antiviral treatment for hepatitis C.

[Antiviral treatment for hepatitis C among injecting drug users in the era of direct-acting antiviral agents]

HCV prevalence among people who inject drugs (PWID) is up to 67%. PWID is a population that needs priority attention to achieve the World Health Organization's goal of eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. Although the SVR of HCV patients treated with direct-acting antiviral drugs (DAAs) can reach over 95%, especially in medical practice, there are still major obstacles to PWID treatment, because PWID is usually accompanied with concurrent infection, multiple-genotype infections, low compliance, substance abuse, methadone maintenance therapy, and risky behavior and re-infection conditions. Therefore, physicians often concern that these factors will affect the treatment efficacy, and refuse to provide hepatitis C treatment in PWID. This article reviews the relevant studies status and effects of hepatitis C treatment in PWID with different infection states and special behavior characteristics, and further highlights that the multidisciplinary cooperation for hepatitis C treatment in PWID is safe and effective, and can ensure treatment compliance.

Association of genetic and environmental factors with dental caries among adolescents in south China: A cross-sectional study

AIM

The objective of this study was to investigative genetic and environmental factors that contribute to caries susceptibility among adolescents in south China.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1055 adolescents aged 13-14 years old in south China. The International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) was used to identify caries. Environmental variables were analysed by regression models. Twenty-three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 14 genes were identified from saliva samples. Regression analysis was used for the evaluation of effects of SNP markers using the minor allele as the effect allele.

RESULTS

Our results suggest that gender, Cariostat score and Plaque Index were associated with dental caries. After the adjustment by age and gender, the G allele in AMBN (rs13115627) nominally was a protective factor for caries under additive model (P=0.028; OR=0.782; 95% CI, 0.627-0.974). However, the association did not meet the Bonferroni correction significance cut-off for multiple testing.

CONCLUSION

Gender, Cariostat score and Plaque Index were associated with dental caries in this population. No selected SNPs showed a significant association with dental caries under either additive model or dominance model.

Using routine blood parameters to anticipate clinical outcomes in invasive aspergillosis

OBJECTIVE

In invasive aspergillosis (IA), monitoring response to antifungal treatment is challenging. We aimed to explore if routine blood parameters help to anticipate outcomes following IA.

METHODS

Post hoc secondary analysis of two multicenter randomized trials was performed. The Global Comparative Aspergillosis Study (GCA, n = 123) and the Combination Antifungal Study (CAS, n = 251) constituted the discovery and validation cohorts respectively. The outcome measures were response to treatment and survival to 12 weeks. Interval platelet, galactomannan index (GMI) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels prior and during antifungal treatment were analysed using logistic regression, Kaplan-Meier survival and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses.

RESULTS

The 12-week survival was 70.7% and 63.7% for the GCA and CAS cohorts respectively. In the GCA cohort, every 10 × 10⁹/L platelet count increase at week 2 and 4 improved 12-week survival odds by 6-18% (odds ratio (OR) 1.06-1.18, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02-1.33). Survival odds also improved 13% with every 10 mg/dL CRP drop at week 1 and 2 (OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.78-0.97). In the CAS cohort, week 2 platelet count was also associated with 12-week survival with 10% improved odds for every 10 × 10⁹/L platelet increase (OR, 1.10, 95% CI 1.04-1.15). A GMI drop of 0.1 unit was additionally found to increase the odds of treatment response by 3% at the baseline of week 0 (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.95-0.99). Week 2 platelet and CRP levels performed better than GMI on ROC analyses for survival (area under ROC curve 0.76, 0.87 and 0.67 respectively). A baseline platelet count higher than 30 × 10⁹/L clearly identified patients with >75% survival probability.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher serial platelets were associated with overall survival while GMI trends were linked to IA treatment response. Routine and simple laboratory indices may aid follow-up of response in IA patients.

Probing predictions due to the nonlocal interface Hamiltonian: Monte Carlo simulations of interfacial fluctuations in Ising films

Extensive Monte Carlo simulations have been performed on an Ising ferromagnet under conditions that would lead to complete wetting in a semi-infinite system. We studied an L×L×D slab geometry with oppositely directed surface fields so that a single interface is formed and can undergo a localization-delocalization transition. Under the chosen conditions the interface position is, on average, in the middle of the slab, and its fluctuations allow a sensitive test of predictions that the effective interactions between the interface and the confining surfaces are nonlocal. The decay of distance dependent correlation functions are measured within the surface, in the middle of the slab, and between middle and the surface for slabs of varying thickness D. From Fourier transforms of these correlation functions a nonlinear correlation length is extracted, and its behavior is found to confirm theoretical predictions for D>6 lattice spacings.

[Spatio-temporal distribution and correlation of reported cases of hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS in China, 2012-2017]

Objective: To compare the time and spatial distribution of hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS cases and its correlation, in China from 2012 to 2017. Methods: Data on reported hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS cases was gathered from the Direct Reporting System of Infectious Diseases Information Network in China, 2012 to 2017 while annually collected provincial data was based on the date of review and current address. Correlation of the data was analyzed, using both simple correlation and linear regression methods. Results: The number of reported cases of hepatitis C remained stable in China, in 2012-2017, with the number of annual reported cases as 201 622, 203 155, 202 803, 207 897, 206 832 and 214 023, respectively. The number of reported cases on HIV/AIDS showed a steady growing trend, from 82 434, 90 119, 103 501, 115 465, 124 555 to 134 512. However, the numbers of hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS cases were in the same, top six provinces: Henan, Guangdong, Xinjiang, Guangxi, Hunan and Yunnan. Results from the simple correlation analysis indicated that there was a positive correlation (r>0.5, P<0.01) existed between the above-said two kinds of cases at the provincial level in China, in 2012-2017. Again, results from the linear regression analysis also showed that the correlation coefficient r(s) and year was strongly correlated (r=0.966) while r(s) had been linearly increasing with time. Conclusions: Our data showed that there were temporal and spatial correlations existed between the reported cases of hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS at the provincial level, suggesting that relevant prevention and control programs be carried out in areas with serious epidemics. Combination of the two strategies should be encouraged, especially on prevention and treatment measures related to blood transmission.

[Sentinel surveillance for viral hepatitis C in China, 2016-2017]

Objective: To understand the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in 5 populations in China during 2016-2017 and provide evidence for the estimation of prevalence trend of hepatitis C and evaluation on the prevention and control effect. Methods: A total of 87 national sentinel surveillance sites for hepatitis C were set up in 31 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) of China to obtain the information about HCV infection prevalence in 5 populations, including volunteer blood donors, people receiving physical examination, patients receiving invasive diagnosis and treatment, patients receiving hemodialysis, and clients visiting family planning outpatient clinics. From April to June, 2016 and 2017, cross-sectional surveys were repeatedly conducted in the 5 populations and blood samples were collected from them for HCV antibody detection. Results: In 2016, 86 sentinel sites completed the surveillance (one sentinel site was not investigated), and 115 841 persons were surveyed. The overall HCV positive rate was 0.38% (442/115 841, 95%CI: 0.23%-0.53%). In 2017, all the 87 sentinel sites completed the surveillance, and 120 486 persons were surveyed. The overall HCV positive rate was 0.37% (449/120 486, 95%CI: 0.23%-0.52%). In 2016 and 2017, the anti-HCV positive rates were 4.46% (223/5 005, 95%CI: 2.18%-6.73%) and 4.39% (216/4 919, 95%CI: 2.29%-6.50%) respectively in hemodialysis patients, 0.85% (44/5 200, 95%CI: 0.27%-1.42%) and 0.70% (36/5 150, 95%CI: 0.15%-1.24%) respectively in patients receiving invasive diagnosis and treatment and remained to be ≤0.25% in volunteer blood donors, people receiving physical examination and clients visiting family planning outpatient clinics. Results for the comparison of the anti-HCV positive rates in the 5 populations indicated that the differences were significant (F=23.091, P<0.001 in 2016 and F=20.181, P<0.001 in 2017). Conclusions: Data from the sentinel surveillance of HCV infection on prevalence in China showed that the anti-HCV positive rates varied in the 5 populations during 2016-2017. The anti-HCV positive rate appeared the highest in the hemodialysis patients, followed by that in the patients receiving invasive diagnosis and treatment, and the prevalence of HCV infection in other 3 populations were at low levels.

Abstract P6-01-05: Detection of HER2 positive tumor cells using functionalized iron oxide nanoparticles

Background: Iron oxide nanoparticles (NPs) have been used for a variety of in-vivo and ex-vivo applications within the biomedical sciences. Moreover, when intended for clinical in-vivo applications, NPs need to meet rigorous requirements to ensure safety as well as bio-functionality including blood circulation time and specificity for cellular targets. PrecisonMRX® NPs are extensively characterized superparamagnetic NPs composed of a 25nm magnetite cores that are currently employed in a variety of in-vivo applications including non-invasive/in vivo diagnosis of cancer, Magnetic Particle Imaging, MRI, and magnetic hyperthermia.

Objective: Here we report on the extensive pre-clinical development and functionality of antibody (Herceptin)-conjugated NPs for in-vivo and ex-vivo detection of HER2+ tumor cells by Magnetic Relaxometry (MRX).

Results: We observed: 1) specific binding and detection of HER2 positive tumor cells in-vitro; 2) specific detection of HER2+ tumors in mice; 3) binding and amplitude of magnetic signal to be proportional to the level of HER2 expression in-vitro and in-vivo; 4) the nanoconstruct remains stable in circulation; 5) the particles do not induce a pro-inflammatory response nor activate complement; 6) the particles are biodegradable; and do not induce acute or delayed signs of morbidity in mice.

Conclusion: Precision MRX® nanoparticles offer great clinical promise including the in- vivo detection of tumor cells by magnetic relaxometry. Given the stability and safety of these NPs, our pre-clinical results support progressing to clinical testing. A first-in human ex-vivo clinical research study design and strategy will be discussed.

Citation Format: Bischoff FZ, Mathieu K, Vargas J, Pang L, Kulp AM, Dewing A, Liu X, Bast RC, Hazle J, Zhang M. Detection of HER2 positive tumor cells using functionalized iron oxide nanoparticles [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P6-01-05.

Mutation update and long-term outcome after treatment with active vitamin D3 in Chinese patients with pseudovitamin D-deficiency rickets (PDDR)

Pseudovitamin D-deficiency rickets is a rare disease which is caused by CYP27B1. In this study, we identified 9 mutations in 7 PDDR patients. In addition, we observed the response to long-term treatment of calcitriol in 15 Chinese patients with PDDR, which showed that the biochemical abnormalities had been corrected satisfactorily after 1-year treatment.

INTRODUCTION

Pseudovitamin D-deficiency rickets is a rare autosomal recessive disorder resulting from a defect in 25-hydroxyvitamin D 1α-hydroxylase, which is encoded by CYP27B1. The purpose of this study was to identify the CYP27B1 mutations and investigate the response to long-term treatment of calcitriol in Chinese patients with PDDR.

METHODS

We investigated CYP27B1 mutations in seven individuals from six separate families. To investigate the response to long-term (13 years) treatment with calcitriol in PDDR patients, we additionally collected clinical data of eight families from our previous report and analyzed their biochemical parameter and radiographic changes during the treatment.

RESULTS

Nine different mutations were identified: two novel missense mutations (G194R, R259L), three novel and one reported deletion mutations (c1442delA, c1504delA, c311-321del, and c. 48-60del), two novel nonsense mutations (c.85G>T, c.580G>T), and a reported insertion mutation (c1325-1332insCCCACCC). The statistical analysis revealed that parathyroid hormone (PTH) and ALP significantly decreased after 6-month and 1-year treatment with calcitriol respectively. Urine calcium was measured in all the patients without kidney stones being documented. After 6-year treatment, the radiographic abnormalities had also been improved. Two patients who had reached their final height are both with short stature (height Z-score below - 2.0).

CONCLUSIONS

We identified seven novel mutations of CYP27B1 gene in seven Chinese PDDR families. Our findings revealed after 1-year treatment of active vitamin D₃, PTH and ALP significantly decreased. The correction of the biochemical abnormalities had not improved the final height satisfactorily.

KIR2DL4-HLAG interaction at human NK cell-oligodendrocyte interfaces regulates IFN-γ-mediated effects

Interactions between germline-encoded natural killer (NK) cell receptors and their respective ligands on tumorigenic or virus-infected cells determine NK cell cytotoxic activity and/or cytokine secretion. NK cell cytokine responses can be augmented in and can potentially contribute to multiple sclerosis (MS), an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system focused upon the oligodendrocytes (OLs). To investigate mechanisms by which NK cells may contribute to MS pathogenesis, we developed an in vitro human model of OL-NK cell interaction. We found that activated, but not resting human NK cells form conjugates with, and mediate cytotoxicity against, human oligodendrocytes. NK cells, when in conjugate with OLs, rapidly synthesize and polarize IFN-γ toward the OLs. IFN-γ  is capable of reducing myelin oligodendrocyte and myelin associated glycoproteins (MOG and MAG) content. This activity is independent of MHC class-I mediated inhibition via KIR2DL1, but dependent upon the interaction between NK cell-expressed KIR2DL4 and its oligodendrocyte-expressed ligand, HLA-G. NK cells from patients with MS express higher levels of IFN-γ following conjugation to OLs, more actively promote in vitro reduction of MOG and MAG and have higher frequencies of the KIR2DL4 positive population. These data collectively suggest a mechanism by which NK cells can promote pathogenic effects upon OLs.

Hemoglobin A1c predicts hemorrhagic transformation and poor outcomes after acute anterior stroke

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Hemorrhagic transformation (HT) is a major complication of acute ischaemic stroke that is potentially related to clinical deterioration. The objective of this study was to assess whether chronic hyperglycemia is a predictive factor of HT in patients with acute anterior stroke.

METHODS

Patients with acute anterior stroke were included in this study. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was measured in the morning after hospitalization. HT was detected by computed tomography scans or gradient echo magnetic resonance imaging performed 4 (±2) days after onset. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess the risks for HT and short-term outcomes.

RESULTS

Of the 426 patients included, 93 (21.8%) had HT: 61 (14.3%) presented with hemorrhagic infarction and 32 (7.5%) presented with parenchymal hematoma. A total of 54 patients received thrombolytic treatment and 18 (33.3%) were found to have HT. In the multivariate analysis, HbA1c [odds ratio (OR), 1.294; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.097-1.528], infarction size (OR, 3.358; 95% CI, 1.748-6.449) and thrombolytic therapy (OR, 3.469; 95% CI, 1.757-6.847) were predictors of HT. The predictive effect of HbA1c on HT was still observed in both groups when patients were stratified according to the levels of fasting blood glucose. HbA1c was found to be a predictor of poor outcomes in the multilogistic regression analysis (OR, 1.482; 95% CI, 1.228-1.788).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher HbA1c was independently related to HT and poor neurological outcomes in patients with ischaemic stroke. These findings have significant implications for the treatment of diabetes and glucose management in patients with diabetes mellitus and/or acute ischaemic stroke.

The association between distance to public amenities and cardiovascular risk factors among lower income Singaporeans

Existing evidence on the association between built environment and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors focused on the general population, which may not generalize to higher risk subgroups such as those with lower socio-economic status (SES). We examined the associations between distance to 5 public amenities from residential housing (public polyclinic, subsidized private clinic, healthier eatery, public park and train station) and 12 CVD risk factors (physical inactivity, medical histories and unhealthy dietary habits) among a study sample of low income Singaporeans aged ≥ 40 years (N = 1972). Using data from the Singapore Heart Foundation Health Mapping Exercise 2013–2015, we performed a series of logistic mixed effect regressions, accounting for clustering of respondents in residential blocks and multiple comparisons. Each regression analysis used the minimum distance (in km) between residential housing and each public amenity as an independent continuous variable and a single risk factor as the dependent variable, controlling for demographic characteristics. Increased distance (geographical inaccessibility) to a train station was significantly associated with lower odds of participation in sports whereas greater distance to a subsidized private clinic was associated with lower odds of having high cholesterol diagnosed. Increasing distance to park was positively associated with higher odds of less vegetable and fruits consumption, deep fried food and fast food consumption in the preceding week/month, high BMI at screening and history of diabetes, albeit not achieving statistical significance. Our findings highlighted potential effects of health-promoting amenities on CVD risk factors in urban low-income setting, suggesting gaps for further investigations.

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We examined associations between access to 5 amenities and 12 CVD risk factors.

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Only 2/60 associations were statistically significant.

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Poorer access to train station was associated with lower odds of sports.

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Poorer access to primary care was associated with lower high cholesterol diagnosis.

Setback distances between small biological wastewater treatment systems and drinking water wells against virus contamination in alluvial aquifers

Contamination of groundwater by pathogenic viruses from small biological wastewater treatment system discharges in remote areas is a major concern. To protect drinking water wells against virus contamination, safe setback distances are required between wastewater disposal fields and water supply wells. In this study, setback distances are calculated for alluvial sand and gravel aquifers for different vadose zone and aquifer thicknesses and horizontal groundwater gradients. This study applies to individual households and small settlements (1-20 persons) in decentralized locations without access to receiving surface waters but with the legal obligation of biological wastewater treatment. The calculations are based on Monte Carlo simulations using an analytical model that couples vertical unsaturated and horizontal saturated flow with virus transport. Hydraulic conductivities and water retention curves were selected from reported distribution functions depending on the type of subsurface media. The enteric virus concentration in effluent discharge was calculated based on reported ranges of enteric virus concentration in faeces, virus infectivity, suspension factor, and virus reduction by mechanical-biological wastewater treatment. To meet the risk target of <10^-4infections/person/year, a 12 log₁₀ reduction was required, using a linear dose-response relationship for the total amount of enteric viruses, at very low exposure concentrations. The results of this study suggest that the horizontal setback distances vary widely ranging 39 to 144m in sand aquifers, 66-289m in gravel aquifers and 1-2.5km in coarse gravel aquifers. It also varies for the same aquifers, depending on the thickness of the vadose zones and the groundwater gradient. For vulnerable fast-flow alluvial aquifers like coarse gravels, the calculated setback distances were too large to achieve practically. Therefore, for this category of aquifer, a high level of treatment is recommended before the effluent is discharged to the ground surface.

Role of vitacamphore in improving central pro-inflammatory cytokines following transient global ischemia

Pro-inflammatory cytokines (PICs) including interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) are responsive to ischemic stress. This process thereby modulates the responsiveness of many cell types under diseased conditions. The current study was to examine the role played by vitacamphore (VCP) in regulating the levels of PICs and protein expression of PIC receptors in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of rats after cardiac arrest (CA)-induced transient global ischemia. CA was induced by asphyxia followed by cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in rats. ELISA and Western blot analyses were employed to determine PICs and their receptors in the cortex and hippocampus. Our results show that IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were significantly elevated in the cortex and hippocampus after CA. This was accompanied with increasing of PIC receptors, namely IL-1R, IL-6R and TNFR1. Systemic injection of VCP attenuated amplification of PIC signal pathway in these brain regions. VCP also improved Neurological Severity Score and brain tissue edema in CA rats. Notably, VCP resulted in a significant increase in survival of CA rats as compared with controls. In conclusion, VCP is likely to play a beneficial role in modulating transient global ischemia induced by CA via PIC signal mechanisms.

Evaluation of the PPAR-γ Agonist Pioglitazone in Mild Asthma: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) is a nuclear receptor that modulates inflammation in models of asthma. To determine whether pioglitazone improves measures of asthma control and airway inflammation, we performed a single-center randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trial.

Methods

Sixty-eight participants with mild asthma were randomized to 12 weeks pioglitazone (30 mg for 4 weeks, then 45 mg for 8 weeks) or placebo. The primary outcome was the adjusted mean forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV₁) at 12 weeks. The secondary outcomes were mean peak expiratory flow (PEF), scores on the Juniper Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) and Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ), fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), bronchial hyperresponsiveness (PD₂₀), induced sputum counts, and sputum supernatant interferon gamma-inducible protein-10 (IP-10), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), and eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) levels. Study recruitment was closed early after considering the European Medicines Agency’s reports of a potential increased risk of bladder cancer with pioglitazone treatment. Fifty-five cases were included in the full analysis (FA) and 52 in the per-protocol (PP) analysis.

Results

There was no difference in the adjusted FEV₁ at 12 weeks (-0.014 L, 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.15 to 0.12, p = 0.84) or in any of the secondary outcomes in the FA. The PP analysis replicated the FA, with the exception of a lower evening PEF in the pioglitazone group (-21 L/min, 95% CI -39 to -4, p = 0.02).

Conclusions

We found no evidence that treatment with 12 weeks of pioglitazone improved asthma control or airway inflammation in mild asthma.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01134835

Rotavirus infection and histo-blood group antigens in the children hospitalized with diarrhoea in China

To explore the association between rotavirus (RV) infection and histo-blood group antigens (HBGAs), a cross-sectional study was conducted in children hospitalized with diarrhoea in China from November 2014 to February 2015. In total, 424 sets of stool, saliva and buccal cell samples were collected. For the 125 RV-negative samples, 92% (104/125) were secretors/partial secretors, 8% (10/125) were non-secretors. Among the 299 RV-positive samples, 277 were P[8] and 22 were P[4]. All P[4] and P[8] positive individuals were secretors/partial secretors except for one P[8] (0.3%, 1/299), which was a non-secretor. These findings indicate that P[8] and P[4] RVs preferably infect secretors/partial secretors (p <0.001).

MiR-26b modulates insulin sensitivity in adipocytes by interrupting the PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway

BACKGROUND

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as epigenetic regulators of metabolism and energy homeostasis. There is a growing body of evidence pointing to miRNAs that have important regulatory roles in insulin sensitivity.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this work was to explore the expression and mechanism of action of miR-26b in obesity-related insulin resistance (IR) in adipocytes.

METHODS

Quantitative real-time PCR was performed to determine miR-26b expression in obese rodent models, human obesity subjects and insulin-resistant adipocytes. We analysed the roles of miR-26b overexpression and inhibition on glucose uptake in adipocytes. Western blotting was used to detect the levels of protein molecules involved in the phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K) pathway. Bioinformatics and the Dual Luciferase Assay were used to identify the target gene of miR-26b. We assessed the regulatory roles of miR-26b on the phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN)/PI3K/AKT pathway and the relationship between miR-26b and the metabolism of human obese subjects.

RESULTS

Levels of miR-26b are reduced in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) in obese rodent models, human obesity and insulin-resistant adipocytes. MiR-26b promotes insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and increases insulin-stimulated glucose transporter type 4 translocation to the plasma membrane in human mature adipocytes. MiR-26b modulates insulin-stimulated AKT activation via inhibition of its target gene, PTEN, and significantly increases insulin sensitivity via the PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway. The expression level of miR-26b negatively correlates with increasing body mass index and homeostasis model assessment for IR in human obese subjects.

CONCLUSION

Decreased miR-26b expression in VAT may be involved in obesity-related IR by interrupting the PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway.

A polymorphism in melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 may be a risk factor for enterovirus 71 infection

Enterovirus 71 (EV71) infection has a wide variety of clinical manifestations, from no symptoms to fatal disease. Host immune response may be a determinant of disease severity. We investigated the association of polymorphisms in three pattern recognition receptor (PRR) genes-toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) (rs3775291), retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) (rs10813831) and melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA5) (rs1990760)-with the severity of EV71 infection. Polymorphisms of candidate genes in 87 EV71-infected patients and 57 asymptomatic controls were detected. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed statistically significant differences in polymorphism of MDA5 (rs1990760) between patients with severe EV71 infection and asymptomatic controls in an additive model (OR 0.424, 95% CI 0.213-0.845, p 0.015) and a dominant model (OR 0.256, 95% CI 0.103-0.635, p 0.003). Polymorphism of MDA5 (rs1990760) (OR 0.399, 95% CI 0.199-0.798, p 0.009) was found to be associated with the severity of EV71 infection with the analysis of ordinal logistic regression. These results indicated the association between MDA5 (rs1990760) polymorphism and an increased risk of a severe EV71 infection in Chinese children, which offers potential for investigating the innate immune mechanism of EV71 infection and identifying at-risk infants, for whom a preventive strategy may reduce the severity of EV71 infection.

Engineered materials for all-optical helicity-dependent magnetic switching

The possibility of manipulating magnetic systems without applied magnetic fields have attracted growing attention over the past fifteen years. The low-power manipulation of the magnetization, preferably at ultrashort timescales, has become a fundamental challenge with implications for future magnetic information memory and storage technologies. Here we explore the optical manipulation of the magnetization in engineered magnetic materials. We demonstrate that all-optical helicity-dependent switching (AO-HDS) can be observed not only in selected rare earth-transition metal (RE-TM) alloy films but also in a much broader variety of materials, including RE-TM alloys, multilayers and heterostructures. We further show that RE-free Co-Ir-based synthetic ferrimagnetic heterostructures designed to mimic the magnetic properties of RE-TM alloys also exhibit AO-HDS. These results challenge present theories of AO-HDS and provide a pathway to engineering materials for future applications based on all-optical control of magnetic order.