The role of morphine- and fentanyl-induced impairment of intestinal epithelial antibacterial activity in dysbiosis and its impact on the microbiota-gut-brain axis

Recent evidence suggests that chronic exposure to opioid analgesics such as morphine disrupts the intestinal epithelial layer and causes intestinal dysbiosis. Depleting gut bacteria can preclude the development of tolerance to opioid-induced antinociception, suggesting an important role of the gut-brain axis in mediating opioid effects. The mechanism underlying opioid-induced dysbiosis, however, remains unclear. Host-produced antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are critical for the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier as they prevent the pathogenesis of the enteric microbiota. Here, we report that chronic morphine or fentanyl exposure reduces the antimicrobial activity in the ileum, resulting in changes in the composition of bacteria. Fecal samples from morphine-treated mice had increased levels of Akkermansia muciniphila with a shift in the abundance ratio of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. Fecal microbial transplant (FMT) from morphine-naïve mice or oral supplementation with butyrate restored (a) the antimicrobial activity, (b) the expression of the antimicrobial peptide, Reg3γ, (c) prevented the increase in intestinal permeability and (d) prevented the development of antinociceptive tolerance in morphine-dependent mice. Improved epithelial barrier function with FMT or butyrate prevented the enrichment of the mucin-degrading A. muciniphila in morphine-dependent mice. These data implicate impairment of the antimicrobial activity of the intestinal epithelium as a mechanism by which opioids disrupt the microbiota-gut-brain axis.

Exosomal miR-205-5p Improves Endometrial Receptivity by Upregulating E-Cadherin Expression through ZEB1 Inhibition

Endometrial receptivity is a complex process that prepares the uterine endometrium for embryo implantation; insufficient endometrial receptivity is one of the causes of implantation failure. Here, we analyzed the microRNA expression profiles of exosomes derived from both receptive (RL95-2) and non-receptive (AN3-CA) endometrial epithelial cell (EEC) lines to identify exosomal miRNAs closely linked to endometrial receptivity. Among the 466 differentially expressed miRNAs, miR-205-5p was the most highly expressed in exosomes secreted from receptive RL95-2 cells. miR-205-5p, enriched at the adhesive junction, was closely related to endometrial receptivity. ZEB1, a transcriptional repressor of E-cadherin associated with endometrial receptivity, was identified as a direct target of miR-205-5p. miR-205-5p expression was significantly lower in the endometrial tissues of infertile women than in that of non-infertile women. In vivo, miR-205-5p expression was upregulated in the post-ovulatory phase, and its inhibitor reduced embryo implantation. Furthermore, administration of genetically modified exosomes overexpressing miR-205-5p mimics upregulated E-cadherin expression by targeting ZEB1 and improved spheroid attachment of non-receptive AN3-CA cells. These results suggest that the miR-205-5p/ZEB1/E-cadherin axis plays an important role in regulating endometrial receptivity. Thus, the use of exosomes harboring miR-205-5p mimics can be considered a potential therapeutic approach for improving embryo implantation.

Role of mu opioid receptor (MOR) agonist efficacy as a determinant of opioid antinociception in a novel assay of pain-depressed behavior in female and male mice

Introduction

Intermediate efficacy mu opioid receptor (MOR) agonists have potential to retain analgesic effectiveness while improving safety, but the optimal MOR efficacy for effective and safe opioid analgesia is unknown. Preclinical assays of pain-depressed behavior can assess effects of opioids and other candidate analgesics on pain-related behavioral depression, which is a common manifestation of clinically relevant pain and target of pain treatment. Accordingly, the present study goal was to validate a novel assay of pain-depressed locomotor behavior in mice and evaluate the role of MOR efficacy as a determinant of opioid analgesic effects and related safety measures.

Methods

Male and female ICR mice were tested in a locomotor chamber consisting of 2 compartments connected by a doorway that contained a 1-inch-tall barrier. Dependent measures during 15-min behavioral sessions included crosses between compartments (which required vertical activity to surmount the barrier) and total movement counts (which required horizontal activity to break photobeams in each compartment).

Results and Discussion

Intraperitoneal injection of lactic acid (IP acid) produced a concentration- and time-dependent depression of both endpoints. Optimal blockade of IP acid-induced behavioral depression with minimal motor impairment was achieved with intermediate-efficacy MOR treatments that also produced less gastrointestinal-transit inhibition and respiratory depression than the high-efficacy MOR agonist fentanyl. Sex differences in treatment effects were rare. Overall, these findings validate a novel procedure for evaluating opioids and other candidate analgesic effects on pain-related behavioral depression in mice and support continued research with intermediate-efficacy MOR agonists as a strategy to retain opioid analgesic effectiveness with improved safety.

Proton Single-Energy Bragg-Peak FLASH Using Clinical Systems Can Achieve IMPT-Equivalent Plan Quality for Breast and Prostate Cancers

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Most current proton FLASH-RT studies focus on transmission proton techniques. In this study, we propose a novel method for achieving FLASH dose rate in hypofractionated proton radiotherapy using the Bragg peak of a single-energy proton beam. The dosimetric characteristics using this novel technique for proton pencil beam scanning (PBS) stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) of prostate and breast cancers were first investigated based on the clinically available cyclotron beam parameters.

MATERIALS/METHODS

This novel approach uses the distal tracking technique that enables PBS Bragg-peak of the highest proton energy to adapt to the target distally. Positioning of the Bragg peak at different depths is achieved using a universal range shifter and range compensator. To investigate the feasibility of this approach, we developed an in-house treatment planning platform for intensity-modulated proton therapy (IMPT) delivery and performed dosimetric studies on prostate and breast SBRT cases previously treated with conventional proton PBS technique. FLASH plans were generated using a similar clinical beam arrangement to deliver 40 Gy (RBE) in 5 fractions. Dose metrics were compared between the clinical and FLASH plans. Dose-rate volume histograms (DRVH) were also calculated to investigate the 40 Gy/s coverage (V40 Gy/s) of organs-at-risk (OARs) for FLASH plans.

RESULTS

The distal tracking can precisely stop the Bragg peak at the target distal edge, and Bragg peak plans achieved tumor coverage and dose conformality equivalent to IMPT plans. The clinical IMPT plans yielded slightly superior target dose uniformity -CTV Dmax of FLASH plans was 10% higher for prostate and 2% higher for breast. There was no significant difference between the clinical and FLASH plans in dose metrics for major OARs, including rectum, large bowel, heart, and lung. Higher maximal doses to femoral heads (∼2 Gy) and urethra (∼6 Gy) were observed in prostate FLASH plans than in the clinical plans but were still within clinically accepted dose limits. The V40 Gy/s for OARs were >90% for prostate FLASH plans and >76.5% for breast FLASH plans.

CONCLUSION

The proposed single-energy Bragg-peak FLASH technique eliminates exit dose associated with transmission proton FLASH and can still yield comparable plan quality and OAR sparing while preserve sufficient FLASH dose rate coverage for prostate and breast proton SBRT. This study demonstrates the potential application of Bragg peaks for highly conformal FLASH-RT using clinical cyclotron systems to treat prostate and breast cancer patients, which moves towards clinical application.

Exploring the Clinical Characteristics and Survival of Early-Onset and Late-Onset Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Presently, early-onset and late-onset nasopharyngeal cancer (EONPC and LONPC, defined as age ≤ 50 years and > 50 years old, respectively) are seldom studied. The purpose of this study is to determine the clinical and survival characteristics between the NPC patients of these two age groups.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Patients diagnosed with NPC in The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database from 2000 to 2018 years, and in our institution from 2014 to 2017 years were reviewed in this study. Clinicopathological characteristics, treatment modalities, and survival outcomes of EONPC and LONPC patients were analyzed and compared.

RESULTS

A total of 2943 patients (including 935 patients with EONPC and 2008 patients with LONPC) in the SEER database and 833 domestic patients (including 518 patients with EONPC and 315 patients with LONPC) in our center were finally enrolled. In the SEER database, both EONPC and LONPC patients displayed a greater prevalence in men. EONPC patients presented with a worse staging of regional lymph node metastasis (p < 0.001), but had a better prognosis than that in the LONPC patients (p < 0.001). More EONPC patients received chemotherapy and radiation (p < 0.001). Similar results were validated in our center, and in addition, it was found that EONPC patients had an advanced clinical stage (stage III, IVA, 92.1% vs. 85.1%, p = 0.016) and larger primary tumor volume (41.7% vs. 35.7%, p = 0.049). Meanwhile, EONPC patients had a superior overall survival (OS) (p = 0.017) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) (p = 0.004) compared to that in the LONPC patients. In univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis, early-onset was independently associated with a higher 5-year OS (82.4% vs. 73.3%, p = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

EONPC patients present with more advanced lymph node metastasis stage and clinical stage, but have a better survival compared to LONPC patients. Age ≤ 50 years was an independent prognostic factor for survival outcome in NPC patients. To achieved the better individualization of the therapeutic regimen, there is the need for further studies on EONPC.

Potential Predictive Value of Intravoxel Incoherent Motion Magnetic Resonance for Xerostomia of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Xerostomia, caused by radiation-induced parotid damage, is the most commonly reported complications of radiotherapy (RT) to nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). This study aimed to evaluate the value of IVIM MR in monitoring radiation parotid gland damage and predicting the risk of xerostomia.

MATERIALS/METHODS

A total of 54 patients were enrolled and underwent IVIM MR scans at before RT, after the fifth fraction, halfway through the course of RT, and at the end of radiotherapy. The parameters of IVIM MR include pseudo-diffusion coefficient (D*), perfusion fraction (f), and pure diffusion coefficient (D). The degree of xerostomia in NPC patients was assessed before each MR examination using the acute radiation morbidity scoring criteria proposed by the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG). Concurrently, the time when the patient first reported suffering from xerostomia was recorded. The IVIM parameters trend throughout the RT, and the relationships between IVIM parameters and xerostomia, were analyzed.

RESULTS

All of the IVIM parameters increased from pre-RT to post-RT significantly (all p < 0.001). The increase rate of D from pre-RT to halfway through the RT was 32.61%, which was significantly higher than 15.64% from halfway to post-RT (p<0.001), indicating that cell necrosis in the first half of treatment is significantly higher than that in the second half. Both D* and F had significantly increased from pre-RT to halfway through the radiotherapy (p<0.001), with an increase rate of 19.58% and 29.38%, respectively. However, no significant increase was observed from Halfway to post-RT (p>0.05), with an increase rate of 4.10% and 8.30%, respectively. This may be due to radiation-induced vasculitic dilation that is significant in the first half of the radiotherapy but plateaus in the second half. Pre-D (OR = 23.85; 95% CI = 2.39, 237.82; p = .007) and pre-D* (OR = 0.75; 95% CI = 0.63, 0.91; p = 0.003) are independent influencing factors for xerostomia at 3 months after the completion of RT. D and F were significantly higher after the fifth fraction compared with Pre-RT (both p<0.05), respectively increased 31.25% and 25.16%. D* increase by 15% (p = 0.081). IVIM scans can assess parotid gland damage early. And the average time of parotid damage underwent IVIM scan was 5.99 ± 0.84 (day), much earlier than 11.84 ± 2.74 (day) according to RTOG.

CONCLUSION

Our study indicates that IVIM MR can dynamically monitor radiotherapy-induced parotid gland damage, and much earlier and objectively than RTOG.

Introducing an Experimental Approach to Predict Spot Scanning Time Parameters for a Superconducting Cyclotron Proton Therapy Machine

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Proton pencil beam scanning (PBS) delivery sequence varies a lot among institutions due to the differences in vendors, machine types, and beamline configurations, which impacts PBS interplay effects and treatment delivery time estimation. This study aims to develop an independent experimental approach to predict the spot scanning time parameters for a clinical superconducting cyclotron proton therapy machine.

MATERIALS/METHODS

This independent experimental approach employed an open-air parallel-plate detector with a temporal resolution of 0.05ms. A series of spot, energy, and dose rate patterns were designed and delivered, including (1) Spot switching time (SSWT) under different spot spacing for IEC-X, IEC-Y directions and diagonal direction (traveling in both X and Y direction) for three energy layers (110, 170 and 230 MeV); The Wilcoxon test is used to validate the prediction of SSWT along the diagonal direction. (2) Energy layer switching time (ELST) with different descending energy gaps for a fixed initial energy and different initial energies for a fixed descending energy gap. (3) Dose rate (MU/min) are measured for different minimum-MU-per-energy-layer (MMPEL), which are compared with the previous publication.

RESULTS

A SSWT jump at 10mm (can be customized) spot spacing is observed because of triggering the machine's "raster mode" threshold. Discontinuous two variable piecewise linear functions were used to fit the SSWT in X/Y for spot spacing and energy. SSWT in X/Y is increasing as spot spacing and energy increase. SSWT in the diagonal direction is determined by the time either in the x-direction or y-direction, whichever takes longer (see Table 1 for one example of validations). ELST is linear depending on descending energy gap. The dose rate dependence on MMPEL is confirmed with previous publications of a similar type of machine.

CONCLUSION

The study provided the first independent quantitative experimental modeling of the beam delivery time parameters without any information from vendors. Such machine-specific delivery sequence models could pave the foundation of precise interplay effect evaluation for clinical decision-making.

Pencil Beam Scanning Proton Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT): A Robust Single Institution Experience

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

To describe the feasibility of treating a complex and diverse group of patients using pencil beam scanning (PBS) proton stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT: 5 or fewer fractions, with a fraction size of at least 5 Gy).

MATERIALS/METHODS

Our center treats on average 105-120 PBS proton treatments daily, of which 9.5% of treatment courses are proton SBRT. Statistics of disease sites, treatment planning parameters (target volume, prescriptions, number of fields, SFO vs. MFO), and treatment efficiencies (scheduled time slots, actual treatment time) are presented for 305 consecutive SBRT patients receiving 1507 fractions in the past three years. Thermoplastic masks or Vacuum-lock bags are used to immobilize SBRT patients and index the patients' treatment position. Imaging guidance of orthogonal kV images and volumetric cone-beam CT is routinely used for patient setup.

RESULTS

SBRT patients are grouped based on the target locations: pelvis (31%), liver (17%), thoracic (13%), spine (8%), abdominal (8%), brain (7%), non-spine bone (7%), ocular (6%), and head and neck (2%). Only 112 patients (37%) were receiving their 1st RT course, whereas 113 (37%) had one prior in-field RT course, and 80 (26%) had multiple prior in-field RT courses. The median [IQR] target volume was 65.4 [29.3, 168] cc (range: 0.3-2475 cc). 72% of cases were planned with SFO and 28% with MFO. On average, 3.76 fields (range: 2 to 12) were planned for each treatment. 44% of the treatments were planned with three or fewer fields, and 10% received more than five fields, most of which involved repainting for moving targets. Over 97% of treatments were delivered in 5 fractions, with ∼3% delivered in 3 fractions. The median [IQR] prescription per treatment was 8 [7, 10] Gy (range: 5-18 Gy per treatment). 85% (84%) of the SBRT treatments were scheduled (delivered) in a 45-minute or shorter slot, and 6% (7%) of treatments were scheduled (delivered) in over a one-hour slot, most commonly for multiple isocenter treatments. 93% of treatments were delivered within 15 minutes of the planned treatment time or shorter. Deep-inspiration breath-hold (DIBH) was applied to 45% of liver SBRT cases, with the remaining 55% planned on 4D CT with (14%) or without (86%) abdominal compression. DIBH was applied in 13% of lung SBRT cases. The application of other motion mitigation approaches, such as volumetric repainting, was determined by the target motion amplitude and whether the patient could tolerate DIBH.

CONCLUSION

In the most diverse and largest proton SBRT experience delivered in the world over the past 3 years, over 300 patients were treated, demonstrating the feasibility and efficiency of delivering proton SBRT in a very busy center. The planning and treatment parameter statistics reported serve as a helpful reference for the proton community.

The Feasibility of Level Ib Sparing Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Patients with High-Risk Factors: Based on International Guideline

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

In spite of the rarity of level Ib recurrence after intensity-modulated radiation therapy, the International Guideline (IG) provides the risk factors for prophylactic coverage. In practice, however, there are significant differences between institutions. The purpose of this study is to examine the feasibility of sparing level Ib IMRT in NPC patients with high-risk factors based on IG.

MATERIALS/METHODS

From January 2014 to October 2017, newly-diagnostic, non-metastatic NPC patients in our center were retrospectively reviewed. According to the risk factors of prophylactic level Ib coverage in patients with negative level Ib recommended by IG, the characteristics of pre-treatment MRI were analyzed. Four high-risk factors were identified: a. involvement of the structures that drain to level Ib as first echelon (FES), including anterior half of nasal cavity, oral cavity, b. involvement of submandibular gland (SMG), c. with radiologic extranodal extension (rENE) in level II LNs, or d. maximal axial diameter (MAD)≧2 cm in level II LNs. Patients with risk factors were divided into Cohort A (with risk factors a), Cohort B (with risk factor b, but without a), and Cohort C (only with risk factors c and/or d). Recurrence rates of level Ib and regional relapse-free survival (RRFS) rates were evaluated in different cohorts.

RESULTS

A total of 961 patients were finally included. Thirty-six cases (3.7%) presented with radiologically positive level Ib metastasis. For the other patients with negative Ib LNs, there were 18, 65, 421, and 444 cases classified as FES involvement, SMG involvement, level II LNs with rENE, and level II nodal with MAD ≧2 cm. Excluding overlap, a total of 571 patients with risk factors were divided into three groups: Cohort A (n = 18), Cohort B (n = 49) and Cohort C (n = 504). Nine patients (9/961, 0.94%) developed level Ib recurrence. Except for 1 patient with positive Ib LNs at diagnosis, 2 did not meet any of the risk factors, while the other six (6/9, 66.7%) met at least one risk factor. The rate of recurrence at neck level Ib was highest in Cohort A (11.1%, 2/18; Ib-sparing group: 0/10, 0.0% vs Ib-covering group: 2/8, 25.0%; P = 0.183). In Cohort B, no cases were found with level Ib recurrence (0.0%, 0/49). In Cohort C, the rates were rare (0.8%, 4/504) in both groups (0.7%, 2/276 vs 0.9%, 2/228; P > 0.999). Among the three Cohorts, there were no significant differences in 5-year RRFS between two groups, which were 90.0% vs 62.5% (p = 0.248), 90.9% vs 92.0% (p = 0.905), and 92.6% vs 90.1% (p = 0.445), respectively. Among patients with high-risk factors, the incidence of grade 3-4 late dry mouth symptom was higher in the level Ib-covering group (3.1% vs 7.5%, P = 0.033).

CONCLUSION

Level Ib sparing appears safe and feasible for NPC patients with negative level Ib LNs, even if combined with risk factors: SMG involvement, and/or level II with rENE, and/or level II MAD ≧2 cm. Level Ib-sparing irradiation reduces dry mouth symptoms compared with level Ib-irradiation.

The Role of Morphine-Induced Impairment of Intestinal Epithelial Antibacterial Activity in Dysbiosis and its Impact on the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis.. [PMID: 37503065 PMCID: PMC10371156 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3084467/v2]

Recent evidence suggests that chronic exposure to opioid analgesics such as morphine disrupt the intestinal epithelial layer and cause intestinal dysbiosis. Inhibiting opioid-induced dysbiosis can preclude the development of tolerance to opioid-induced antinociception, suggesting an important role of the gut-brain axis in mediating opioid effects. However, the mechanism underlying opioid-induced dysbiosis remains unclear. Host-produced antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are critical for the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier as they prevent the pathogenesis of the enteric microbiota. Here, we report that chronic morphine exposure reduces expression of the antimicrobial peptide, Regenerating islet-derived 3 gamma (Reg3γ), in the ileum resulting in reduced intestinal antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria, L. reuteri. Fecal samples from morphine-treated mice had reduced levels of the phylum, Firmicutes, concomitant with reduced levels of short-chain fatty acid, butyrate. Fecal microbial transplant (FMT) from morphine-naïve mice restored the antimicrobial activity, the expression of Reg3γ, and prevented the increase in intestinal permeability and the development of antinociceptive tolerance in morphine-dependent mice. Similarly, oral gavage with sodium butyrate dose-dependently reduced the development of antinociceptive tolerance, and prevented the downregulation of Reg3γ and the reduction in antimicrobial activity. The alpha diversity of the microbiome was also restored by oral butyrate in morphine-dependent mice. These data implicate impairment of the antimicrobial activity of the intestinal epithelium as a mechanism by which morphine disrupts the microbiota-gut-brain axis.

The Role of Morphine-Induced Impairment of Intestinal Epithelial Antibacterial Activity in Dysbiosis and its Impact on the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis

Recent evidence suggests that chronic exposure to opioid analgesics such as morphine disrupt the intestinal epithelial layer and cause intestinal dysbiosis. Inhibiting opioid-induced dysbiosis can preclude the development of tolerance to opioid-induced antinociception, suggesting an important role of the gut-brain axis in mediating opioid effects. However, the mechanism underlying opioid-induced dysbiosis remains unclear. Host-produced antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are critical for the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier as they prevent the pathogenesis of the enteric microbiota. Here, we report that chronic morphine exposure reduces expression of the antimicrobial peptide, Regenerating islet-derived 3 gamma (Reg3γ), in the ileum resulting in reduced intestinal antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria, L. reuteri. Fecal samples from morphine-treated mice had reduced levels of the phylum, Firmicutes, concomitant with reduced levels of short-chain fatty acid, butyrate. Fecal microbial transplant (FMT) from morphine-naïve mice restored the antimicrobial activity, the expression of Reg3γ, and prevented the increase in intestinal permeability and the development of antinociceptive tolerance in morphine-dependent mice. Similarly, oral gavage with sodium butyrate dose-dependently reduced the development of antinociceptive tolerance, and prevented the downregulation of Reg3γ and the reduction in antimicrobial activity. The alpha diversity of the microbiome was also restored by oral butyrate in morphine-dependent mice. These data implicate impairment of the antimicrobial activity of the intestinal epithelium as a mechanism by which morphine disrupts the microbiota-gut-brain axis.

Comprehensive genomic analysis of the potential limitations of several published PCR primers targeting prfA-virulence gene cluster in Listeria species

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is commonly used to detect Listeria monocytogenes, foodborne pathogen. The present study conducted in silico genomic analysis to investigate the specificity and binding efficacy of four published pairs of PCR primers targeting Listeria prfA-virulence gene cluster (pVGC) based on Listeria sequences available. We first performed comprehensive genomic analyses of the pVGC, the main pathogenicity island in Listeria spp. In total, 2961 prfA, 642 plcB, 629 mpl, and 1181 hlyA gene sequences were retrieved from the NCBI database. Multiple sequence alignments and phylogenetic trees were generated using unique (non-identical or not-shared) sequences of each represented genes, targeting four pairs of PCR primers published previously, namely 202 prfA, 82 plcB, 150 mpl and 176 hlyA unique gene sequences. Only hlyA gene showed strong (over 94%) primer mapping results, while prfA, plcB and mpl genes showed weak (less than 50%) matching results. In addition, nucleotide variations were observed at the 3' end of the primers, indicating non-binding to the targets could potentially cause false-negative results. Thus, we propose designing degenerate primers or multiple PCR primers based on as many isolates as possible, to minimize the false-negative risk and reach the aim of low tolerable limits of detection.

[Epidemiologic characteristics and influencing factors of influenza outbreaks in Guangdong Province, 2015-2022]

Objective: To grasp the epidemiological characteristics of influenza outbreaks in Guangdong Province by analyzing the outbreaks of influenza-like cases reported in Guangdong Province from January 2015 to the end of August 2022. Methods: In response to the outbreak of epidemics in Guangdong Province from 2015 to 2022, information on on-site epidemic control was collected, and epidemiological analysis was conducted to describe the characteristics of the epidemics. The factors that influence the intensity and duration of the outbreak were determined through a logistic regression model. Results: A total of 1 901 influenza outbreaks were reported in Guangdong Province, with an overall incidence of 2.05%. Most outbreak reports occurred from November to January of the following year (50.24%, 955/1 901) and from April to June (29.88%, 568/1 901). A total of 59.23% (1 126/1 901) of the outbreaks were reported in the Pearl River Delta region, and primary and secondary schools were the main places where outbreaks occurred (88.01%, 1 673/1 901). Outbreaks with 10-29 cases were the most common (66.18%, 1 258/1 901), and most outbreaks lasted less than seven days (50.93%,906/1 779). The size of the outbreak was related to the nursery school (aOR=0.38, 95%CI:0.15-0.93), the Pearl River Delta region (aOR=0.60, 95%CI:0.44-0.83), the time interval between the onset of the first case and the time of report (>7 days compared with ≤3 days: aOR=3.01, 95%CI:1.84-4.90), the influenza A(H1N1) (aOR=2.02, 95%CI:1.15-3.55) and the influenza B (Yamagata) (aOR=2.94, 95%CI: 1.50-5.76). The duration of outbreaks was related to school closures (aOR=0.65, 95%CI: 0.47-0.89), the Pearl River Delta region (aOR=0.65, 95%CI: 0.50-0.83) and the time interval between the onset of the first case and the time of report (>7 days compared with ≤3 days: aOR=13.33, 95%CI: 8.80-20.19; 4-7 days compared with ≤3 days: aOR=2.56, 95%CI: 1.81-3.61). Conclusions: An influenza outbreak in Guangdong Province exhibits two peaks, one in the winter and spring seasons and the other in the summer. Primary and secondary schools are high-risk areas, and early reporting of outbreaks is critical for controlling influenza outbreaks in schools. Furthermore, comprehensive measures should be taken to prevent the spread of the epidemic.

[Clinical features and prognosis of 118 children with histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis]

Objective: To explore the clinical features and prognosis of children with histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis (HNL). Methods: The clinical data of 118 children with HNL diagnosed and treated in the Department of Rheumatology and Immunology of Children's Hospital, Capital Institute of Pediatrics from January 2014 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. The clinical symptoms, laboratory examination, imaging examination, pathological findings, treatment and follow-up were analyzed. Results: Among the 118 patients, 69 were males and 49 were females. The age of onset was 10.0 (8.0, 12.0) years, ranging from 1.5 to 16.0 years. All the children had fever lymph node enlargement, blood system involvement in 74 cases (62.7%), skin injury in 39 cases (33.1%). The main manifestations of laboratory examination were increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate in 90 cases (76.3%), decreased hemoglobin in 58 cases (49.2%), decreased white blood cells in 54 cases (45.8%) and positive antinuclear antibody in 35 cases (29.7%). Ninety-seven cases (82.2%) underwent B-mode ultrasound of lymph nodes, showing nodular lesions with low echo in the neck; 22 cases (18.6%) underwent cervical X-ray and (or) CT; 7 cases (5.9%) underwent cervical magnetic resonance imaging. Lymph node biopsy was performed in all 118 cases, and the pathological results did not support malignant diseases such as lymphoma or Epstein-Barr virus infection, suggesting HNL. Fifty-seven cases (48.3%) recovered without treatment, 61 cases (51.7%) received oral steroid therapy, and 4 cases (3.4%) received indomethacin as anal stopper. The 118 cases were followed up for 4 (2, 6) years, ranging from 1 to 7 years, 87 cases (73.7%) had one onset and did not develop into other rheumatological diseases, and 24 cases (20.3%) had different degrees of recurrence, 7 cases (5.9%) had multiple system injuries, and all of the tested autoantibodies were positive for medium and high titers. All of them developed into other rheumatic immune diseases, among which 5 cases developed into systemic lupus erythematosus and 2 cases developed into Sjogren's syndrome; 7 cases were given oral steroid therapy, including 6 cases plus immunosuppressant and 2 cases receiving methylprednisolone 20 mg/kg shock therapy. Conclusions: The first-onset HNL portion is self-healing, hormone-sensitive and has a good prognosis. For HNL with repeated disease and multiple system injury, antinuclear antibody titer should be monitored during follow-up, and attention should be paid to the possibility of developing into other rheumatological diseases, with poor prognosis.

3D-Printed Functional Hydrogel by DNA-Induced Biomineralization for Accelerated Diabetic Wound Healing

Chronic wounds in diabetic patients are challenging because their prolonged inflammation makes healing difficult, thus burdening patients, society, and health care systems. Customized dressing materials are needed to effectively treat such wounds that vary in shape and depth. The continuous development of 3D-printing technology along with artificial intelligence has increased the precision, versatility, and compatibility of various materials, thus providing the considerable potential to meet the abovementioned needs. Herein, functional 3D-printing inks comprising DNA from salmon sperm and DNA-induced biosilica inspired by marine sponges, are developed for the machine learning-based 3D-printing of wound dressings. The DNA and biomineralized silica are incorporated into hydrogel inks in a fast, facile manner. The 3D-printed wound dressing thus generates provided appropriate porosity, characterized by effective exudate and blood absorption at wound sites, and mechanical tunability indicated by good shape fidelity and printability during optimized 3D printing. Moreover, the DNA and biomineralized silica act as nanotherapeutics, enhancing the biological activity of the dressings in terms of reactive oxygen species scavenging, angiogenesis, and anti-inflammation activity, thereby accelerating acute and diabetic wound healing. These bioinspired 3D-printed hydrogels produce using a DNA-induced biomineralization strategy are an excellent functional platform for clinical applications in acute and chronic wound repair.

Analysis of SOD1 Variants in Chinese Patients with Familial Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease, and genetic contributors exert a significant role in the complicated pathogenesis. Identification of the genetic causes in ALS families could be valuable for early diagnosis and management. The development of potential drugs for patients with genetic defects will shed new light on ALS therapy.

AIM

To identify causative variants in three Chinese families with familial ALS (FALS), reveal the pathogenic mechanism, and look for the targeted drug for ALS.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Whole-exome sequencing and bioinformatics were used to perform genetic analysis of the ALS families. Functional analysis was performed to study the variants' function and search for potential drug targets.

RESULTS

Three heterozygous missense variants of the SOD1 gene were identified in families with FALS. The clinical manifestations of these patients include spinal onset, predominant lower motor neurons presentation, and absence of cognitive involvement. Functional analysis showed that all three SOD1 variants led to increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, reduced cell viability, and formation of cytoplasmic aggregates. Remarkably, the decreased cell viability induced by variants was rescued after treatment with the ROS inhibitor N-acetylcysteine.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified three SOD1 variants in three families with FALS. The variant SOD1 toxicity was associated with oxidative damage and aggregation, and N-acetylcysteine could rescue the decreased cell viability induced by these variants. Our findings support a pathogenic role for ROS in SOD1 deficiencies, and provide a potential drug N-acetylcysteine for ALS therapy, especially in SOD1-patients with limb onset.

[Efficacy and safety of belimumab treatment in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of belimumab in children with systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE). Methods: The clinical data of 49 cSLE patients admitted into the Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Children's Hospital affiliated to the Capital Institute of Pediatrics, from August 2018 to December 2021 were collected. They were divided into the belimumab treatment group (18 cases) and the traditional treatment group (31 cases) according to whether they received belimumab treatment. The cSLE patients in the traditional group had similar baseline SLEDAI scores with the belimumab group and were treated with traditional immunosuppressive drugs. The clinical symptoms and improvements before and after treatment, as well as the differences in adverse events during follow-up were compared between the two groups. Results: In belimumab group, the age was (11.9±1.8) years old, the median (Q₁, Q₃) of disease duration was 7.5 (2.0, 16.8) months, 3 patients were male, and 15 patients completed 24 weeks of treatment. In the traditional treatment group, 31 patients with cSLE were enrolled, with an average age of (11.3±2.4) years, a median (Q₁, Q₃) of disease duration of 7.0 (2.5, 10.5) months, among whom 6 patients were male, and 25 patients completed 24 weeks of treatment. At baseline, the belimumab treatment group had a significantly lower oral prednisone dose than the conventional treatment group [(29.58±12.43) mg/d vs (38.20±14.11) mg/d, P=0.037]. After 24 weeks of treatment, the dosage of prednisone in both groups was reduced, and the dosage of prednisone in the belimumab group was (14.12±5.86) mg/d, which was lower than that in the traditional treatment group [(23.51±9.79) mg/d] (P=0.002). After 24 weeks of treatment, the levels of complement C3 and C4 increased, the dsDNA levels and SLEDAI score decreased in both groups (all P>0.05). The incidence of adverse events in belimumab group (3/15, 3 cases) was lower than that in traditional treatment group (32.0%, 8/25) (P>0.05). Conclusions: Belimumab in the treatment of cSLE can reduce the initial dose of prednisone and facilitate the reduction of prednisone dose, significantly improve the clinical symptoms and organ involvement, and reduce the disease activity. The incidence of adverse events was low during belimumab treatment.

R-PTP-κ Inhibits Contact-Dependent Cell Growth by Suppressing E2F Activity

Density-dependent regulation of cell growth is presumed to be caused by cell-cell contact, but the underlying molecular mechanism is not yet clearly defined. Here, we report that receptor-type protein tyrosine phosphatase-kappa (R-PTP-κ) is an important regulator of cell contact-dependent growth inhibition. R-PTP-κ expression increased in proportion to cell density. siRNA-mediated R-PTP-κ downregulation led to the loss of cell contact-mediated growth inhibition, whereas its upregulation reduced anchorage-independent cell growth in soft agar as well as tumor growth in nude mice. Expression profiling and luciferase reporter system-mediated signaling pathway analysis revealed that R-PTP-κ induced under cell contact conditions distinctly suppressed E2F activity. Among the structural domains of R-PTP-κ, the cytoplasmic domain containing the tandemly repeated PTP motif acts as a potent downregulator of the E2F pathway. Specifically, R-PTP-κ suppressed CDK2 activity through the induction of p21Cip1/WAF-1 and p27Kip1, resulting in cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase. In transcriptome-based public datasets generated from four different tumor types, R-PTP-κ expression was negatively correlated with the expression pattern and prognostic value of two known E2F1 target genes (CCNE1 and CDC25A). Therefore, our results indicate that the R-PTP-κ-E2F axis plays a crucial role in cell growth-inhibitory signaling arising from cell-cell contact conditions.

Association of malnutrition with in-hospital and long-term outcomes among ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients receiving primary PCI

Background

The impact of malnutrition on outcomes in a contemporary ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) population is unclear. We hypothesized that malnutrition severity amongst STEMI patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) is associated with worse long-term outcomes.

Purpose

The aim of this study was 2-fold: 1) to establish the prevalence of malnutrition among STEMI patients undergoing pPCI; 2) to determine the association of malnutrition severity on in-hospital and 1-year outcomes in STEMI patients receiving pPCI

Methods

We retrospectively identified 1,169 STEMI patients of age ≥65 years who had received pPCI (2013–2020). Patients who had presented with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest or those who received fibrinolytic therapy were excluded. The Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score, based on serum albumin, total cholesterol and lymphocyte count, was used as a tool to assess the nutritional status of included patients. Malnourished patients were defined as those with a CONUT score of 5 to 12. To account for the impact of frailty, a frailty index (FI) was determined using the health deficit accumulation model (Table 1). The primary outcome was 1-year all-cause mortality. The secondary outcome was a composite of in-hospital heart failure, cardiogenic shock, re-infarction, major bleeding, stroke, and all-cause mortality. A multivariable model adjusting for baseline covariates, including frailty index score, was performed (Figure 1).

Results

Among 1,169 STEMI patients receiving pPCI, 315 (26.9%) were classified as malnourished. Malnourished patients were older (mean 77.4 vs. 76.0 years, p=0.009) and had a higher comorbidity burden. After multivariable adjustment, worsening malnutrition was associated with increased 1-year all-cause mortality (odds ratio [OR] = 1.29, p&lt;0.001). Worsening malnutrition was also associated with a higher incidence of the in-hospital composite adverse outcome (OR = 1.12, p=0.003) and increased in-hospital all-cause mortality (OR=1.41, p&lt;0.001).

Conclusion

Among STEMI patients receiving pPCI, 1 in 4 were malnourished. Malnutrition was associated with increased rate of in-hospital composite adverse outcome and worse long-term outcomes, even when accounting for frailty. Efforts to routinely identify malnourished STEMI patients and to implement best practices to reduce the risk of adverse events in this vulnerable population are warranted.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Combination of a STAT3 inhibitor with anti-PD-1 immunotherapy is an effective treatment regimen for a vemurafenib-resistant melanoma

Patients with BRAF^V600E-mutant melanoma are effectively treated with the BRAF-inhibiting drug, vemurafenib, but soon develop drug resistance, limiting vemurafenib’s therapeutic efficacy. Constitutive activation of STAT3 in cancer cells and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) is a crucial contributor to the development of drug resistance and immune evasion in most cancers. Here, we investigated the antitumor efficacy and TME remodeling by APT_STAT3-9R, a cell-permeable STAT3 inhibitory peptide, as a strategy to treat vemurafenib-resistant melanoma. We found that vemurafenib-resistant melanoma remodels into immunosuppressive TME by increasing the expression of specific chemokines to facilitate the infiltration of immunosuppressive immune cells, such as myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Intratumoral treatment of APT_STAT3-9R led to a reduction in the population of MDSCs and TAMs, while increasing infiltration of cytotoxic T lymphocytes in the TME. Moreover, combination therapy with APT_STAT3-9R and an anti-PD-1 antibody enhanced significant suppression of tumor growth by decreasing infiltration of these immunosuppressive immune cells while increasing the infiltration and cytotoxicity of CD8⁺ T cells. These findings suggest that combined blockade of STAT3 and PD-1 signaling pathways may be an effective treatment option for overcoming poor therapeutic outcomes associated with drug-resistant BRAF-mutant melanoma.

[An exploratory clinical study of the efficacy and safety of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in the treatment of metastatic osteosarcoma]

Objective: To explore the safety and efficacy of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) extracted from tumor tissue in patients with pulmonary metastasis of osteosarcoma, the TILs were amplified in vitro to reach clinical dosage and reinfused to the patients combined with high-dose interleukin 2 (IL-2). Methods: Twelve subjects with pathologically diagnosed osteosarcoma were enrolled from December 2019 to June 20, 2021 in Shanghai General Hospital. All subjects progressed with metastasis after standard chemotherapy and failed multiple lines of treatments. Fresh tumor tissue was obtained from the metastatic site and extracted and amplified by Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) workshop to produce TILs to clinical treatment dosage (10⁹-10¹¹). High-dose IL-2 (100 000-200 000 U/kg) was administered immediately after autogenous TILs infusion to promote the activation, proliferation and antitumor cytolytic activity in vivo. Adverse events (AE) were graded according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) standard and tumor response was assessed according to Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1. Results: One patient did not receive treatment due to failure in isolating TILs, total of 11 patients received a single re-infusion of autologous TILs. There were 10 males and 1 female with a median age of 19.9 years (12-33 years). Six of these patients received higher dose levels of 1.0×10¹⁰ TILs. The 11 patients were followed-up for 1 to 13 months and tolerated well. The most common adverse events reported were fever (10/11), constipation (3/11) and elevated gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) (3/11). The high incidence of fever was due to the IL-2 infusion. All patients experienced a transient drop in lymphocyte count and leukopenia leading to non-myeloid ablative lymphocyte clearance. The AE included grade 4 hematologic toxicity, including 8 cases of lymphocytopenia, 2 cases of neutropenia and 1 case of thrombocytopenia. No AE of neurotoxicity occurred. Of all the 11 patients, 9 patients got stable disease (SD) and 2 patients had progressive disease (PD). The disease control rate was 9/11. The median duration of SD was more than 4 months, and the maximum tumor volume decreased by close to 20%. Patient number 9 had sustained SD status for more than 6 months. Conclusions: TILs with in vitro expansion ability could be isolated from tumor tissues of advanced osteosarcoma patients. TILs amplified and reinfused in vitro have anti-osteosarcoma activity.

Opioid-like adverse effects of tianeptine in male rats and mice

RATIONALE

Tianeptine is a mu-opioid receptor (MOR) agonist with increasing reports of abuse in human populations. Preclinical data regarding the abuse potential and other opioid-like adverse effects of tianeptine at supratherapeutic doses are sparse.

OBJECTIVES

The present study evaluated tianeptine in a rat model of abuse potential assessment and in mouse models of motor, gastrointestinal, and respiratory adverse effects.

METHODS

Abuse potential was assessed in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats using an intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) procedure to determine effects of acute and repeated tianeptine on responding for electrical brain stimulation. Male ICR mice were used to determine the effects of tianeptine in assays of locomotor behavior and gastrointestinal motility. Male Swiss-Webster mice were monitored for respiratory changes using whole-body plethysmography.

RESULTS

In rats, acute tianeptine produced weak and delayed evidence for abuse-related ICSS facilitation at an intermediate dose (10 mg/kg, IP) and pronounced, naltrexone-preventable ICSS depression at a higher dose (32 mg/kg, IP). Repeated 7-day tianeptine (10 and 32 mg/kg/day, IP) produced no increase in abuse-related ICSS facilitation, only modest tolerance to ICSS depression, and no evidence of physical dependence. In mice, tianeptine produced dose-dependent, naltrexone-preventable locomotor activation. Tianeptine (100 mg/kg, SC) also significantly inhibited gastrointestinal motility and produced naloxone-reversible respiratory depression.

CONCLUSIONS

Tianeptine presents as a MOR agonist with resistance to tolerance and dependence in our ICSS assay in rats, and it has lower abuse potential by this metric than many commonly abused opioids. Nonetheless, tianeptine produces MOR agonist-like acute adverse effects that include motor impairment, constipation, and respiratory depression.

Synaptotagmin 11 scaffolds MKK7-JNK signaling process to promote stem-like molecular subtype gastric cancer oncogenesis

Background

Identifying biomarkers related to the diagnosis and treatment of gastric cancer (GC) has not made significant progress due to the heterogeneity of tumors. Genes involved in histological classification and genetic correlation studies are essential to develop an appropriate treatment for GC.

Methods

In vitro and in vivo lentiviral shRNA library screening was performed. The expression of Synaptotagmin (SYT11) in the tumor tissues of patients with GC was confirmed by performing Immunohistochemistry, and the correlation between the expression level and the patient’s survival rate was analyzed. Phospho-kinase array was performed to detect Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation. SYT11, JNK, and MKK7 complex formation was confirmed by western blot and immunoprecipitation assays. We studied the effects of SYT11 on GC proliferation and metastasis, real-time cell image analysis, adhesion assay, invasion assay, spheroid formation, mouse xenograft assay, and liver metastasis.

Results

SYT11 is highly expressed in the stem-like molecular subtype of GC in transcriptome analysis of 527 patients with GC. Moreover, SYT11 is a potential prognostic biomarker for histologically classified diffuse-type GC. SYT11 functions as a scaffold protein, binding both MKK7 and JNK1 signaling molecules that play a role in JNK1 phosphorylation. In turn, JNK activation leads to a signaling cascade resulting in cJun activation and expression of downstream genes angiopoietin-like 2 (ANGPTL2), thrombospondin 4 (THBS4), Vimentin, and junctional adhesion molecule 3 (JAM3), which play a role in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). SNU484 cells infected with SYT11 shRNA (shSYT11) exhibited reduced spheroid formation, mouse tumor formation, and liver metastasis, suggesting a pro-oncogenic role of SYT11. Furthermore, SYT11-antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) displayed antitumor activity in our mouse xenograft model and was conferred an anti-proliferative effect in SNU484 and MKN1 cells.

Conclusion

SYT11 could be a potential therapeutic target as well as a prognostic biomarker in patients with diffuse-type GC, and SYT11-ASO could be used in therapeutic agent development for stem-like molecular subtype diffuse GC.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-022-02420-3.

Chronic Morphine Induces IL-18 in Ileum Myenteric Plexus Neurons Through Mu-opioid Receptor Activation in Cholinergic and VIPergic Neurons

The gastrointestinal epithelium is critical for maintaining a symbiotic relationship with commensal microbiota. Chronic morphine exposure can compromise the gut epithelial barrier in mice and lead to dysbiosis. Recently, studies have implicated morphine-induced dysbiosis in the mechanism of antinociceptive tolerance and reward, suggesting the presence of a gut-brain axis in the pharmacological effects of morphine. However, the mechanism(s) underlying morphine-induced changes in the gut microbiome remains unclear. The pro-inflammatory cytokine, Interleukin-18 (IL-18), released by enteric neurons can modulate gut barrier function. Therefore, in the present study we investigated the effect of morphine on IL-18 expression in the mouse ileum. We observed that chronic morphine exposure in vivo induces IL-18 expression in the ileum myenteric plexus that is attenuated by naloxone. Given that mu-opioid receptors (MORs) are mainly expressed in enteric neurons, we also characterized morphine effects on the excitability of cholinergic (excitatory) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)-expressing (inhibitory) myenteric neurons. We found fundamental differences in the electrical properties of cholinergic and VIP neurons such that VIP neurons are more excitable than cholinergic neurons. Furthermore, MORs were primarily expressed in cholinergic neurons, although a subset of VIP neurons also expressed MORs and responded to morphine in electrophysiology experiments. In conclusion, these data show that morphine increases IL-18 in ileum myenteric plexus neurons via activation of MORs in a subset of cholinergic and VIP neurons. Thus, understanding the neurochemistry and electrophysiology of MOR-expressing enteric neurons can help to delineate mechanisms by which morphine perturbs the gut barrier.

[Progress in research of 2019-nCoV Omicron variant]

2019-nCoV Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant, which has brought new challenges to the prevention and control of COVID-19 pandemic, has the characteristics of stronger transmissibility and more rapid transmission and more significant immune evasion. It took only two months to become a predominant strain worldwide after its identification in South Africa in November 2021. Local epidemics caused by Omicron variant have been reported in several provinces in China. However, the epidemiological characteristics of highly mutated Omicron variant remain unclear. This article summarizes the progress in the research of functional mutations, transmissibility, virulence, immune evasion and cross-reactive immune responses of Omicron variant, to provide references for the effective prevention and control of COVID-19 pandemic caused by Omicron variant.

[Clinical analysis of 5 cases of systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis with coronary artery dilatation]

Objective: To investigate the clinical characteristics of systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis combined with coronary artery dilatation. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data, including clinical manifestations, blood routine, inflammatory factors, echocardiography, vascular ultrasound and CT angiography, treatment and outcomes, etc, of 5 cases with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis combined with coronary artery dilation admitted to Department of Rheumatology in the affiliated Children's Hospital of Capital Institute of Pediatrics from May 2019 to June 2021. Results: There were 2 males and 3 females among 5 cases. The onset age ranged from 7 months to 4 years 7 months.The diagnostic time ranged from 1.5 months to 3.0 months.Four cases were diagnosed as atypical Kawasaki disease. Three cases showed unilateral coronary artery dilation.Two cases showed bilateral coronary artery dilation.Four cases developed multiple organ injuries.Three cases developed macrophage activation syndrome.Three cases developed lung injury.Two cases developed pericardial effusion.One case developed pulmonary hypertension.As for treatment, 3 cases treated with methylprednisolone pulse therapy and methotrexate combined with cyclosporine, improved after the final application of biological agents, and have stopped prednisone. The other 2 cases were treated with adequate oral prednisone and gradually reduced, and methotrexate was added at the same time, 1 case relapsed in the process of reduction. No other vascular involvement was found in 5 cases. Coronary artery dilation recovered completely after 1 to 3 months of treatment. Conclusions: Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis combined with coronary artery dilatation has the clinical characteristics of small onset age, long diagnostic time, prone to multiple organ injuries. Corticosteroids and conventional immunosuppressive agents are not sensitive, and biological agents should be used as soon as possible.The prognosis of coronary artery dilation is good after timely treatment.

Measuring school level attributable risk to support school-based HPV vaccination programs

Background

In Australia in 2017, 89% of 15-year-old females and 86% of 15-year-old males had received at least one dose of the HPV vaccine. However, considerable variation in HPV vaccination initiation (dose one) across schools remains. It is important to understand the school-level characteristics most strongly associated with low initiation and their contribution to the overall between-school variation.

Methods

A population-based ecological analysis was conducted using school-level data for 2016 on all adolescent students eligible for HPV vaccination in three Australian jurisdictions. We conducted logistic regression to determine school-level factors associated with lower HPV vaccination initiation (< 75% dose 1 uptake) and estimated the population attributable risk (PAR) and the proportion of schools with the factor (school-level prevalence).

Results

The factors most strongly associated with lower initiation, and their prevalence were; small schools (OR = 9.3, 95%CI = 6.1–14.1; 33% of schools), special education schools (OR = 5.6,95%CI = 3.7–8.5; 8% of schools), higher Indigenous enrolments (OR = 2.7,95% CI:1.9–3.7; 31% of schools), lower attendance rates (OR = 2.6,95%CI = 1.7–3.7; 35% of schools), remote location (OR = 2.6,95%CI = 1.6–4.3; 6% of schools,) and lower socioeconomic area (OR = 1.8,95% CI = 1.3–2.5; 33% of schools). The highest PARs were small schools (PAR = 79%, 95%CI:76–82), higher Indigenous enrolments (PAR = 38%, 95%CI: 31–44) and lower attendance rate (PAR = 37%, 95%CI: 29–46).

Conclusion

This analysis suggests that initiatives to support schools that are smaller, with a higher proportion of Indigenous adolescents and lower attendance rates may contribute most to reducing the variation of HPV vaccination uptake observed at a school-level in these jurisdictions. Estimating population-level coverage at the school-level is useful to guide policy and prioritise resourcing to support school-based vaccination programs.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-13088-x.

[Course of disease and related epidemiological parameters of COVID-19: a prospective study based on contact tracing cohort]

Objective: To analyze the course of disease and epidemiological parameters of COVID-19 and provide evidence for making prevention and control strategies. Methods: To display the distribution of course of disease of the infectors who had close contacts with COVID-19 cases from January 1 to March 15, 2020 in Guangdong Provincial, the models of Lognormal, Weibull and gamma distribution were applied. A descriptive analysis was conducted on the basic characteristics and epidemiological parameters of course of disease. Results: In total, 515 of 11 580 close contacts were infected, with an attack rate about 4.4%, including 449 confirmed cases and 66 asymptomatic cases. Lognormal distribution was fitting best for latent period, incubation period, pre-symptomatic infection period of confirmed cases and infection period of asymptomatic cases; Gamma distribution was fitting best for infectious period and clinical symptom period of confirmed cases; Weibull distribution was fitting best for latent period of asymptomatic cases. The latent period, incubation period, pre-symptomatic infection period, infectious period and clinical symptoms period of confirmed cases were 4.50 (95%CI:3.86-5.13) days, 5.12 (95%CI:4.63-5.62) days, 0.87 (95%CI:0.67-1.07) days, 11.89 (95%CI:9.81-13.98) days and 22.00 (95%CI:21.24-22.77) days, respectively. The latent period and infectious period of asymptomatic cases were 8.88 (95%CI:6.89-10.86) days and 6.18 (95%CI:1.89-10.47) days, respectively. Conclusion: The estimated course of COVID-19 and related epidemiological parameters are similar to the existing data.

[Treatment of 11 cases of juvenile idiopathic arthritis by intra-articular injection of adalimumab]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intra-articular injection of adalimumab (ADA) in the treatment of refractory oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Methods: This was a retrospective study. Clinical data on age, gender, and symptoms of joint swelling and pain were collected from 11 children with refractory oligoarticular JIA involving only knee joints admitted to Department of Rheumatism and Immunology of Children's Hospital, Capital Institute of Pediatrics from November 2019 to October 2020. The physician and parent-child evaluation of disease activity, the number of active joints, and the level of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) at different treatment time points were analyzed at every 4-week observation point after drug administration, and the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the differences in clinical evaluation indicators and changes in laboratory tests at different treatment times. The follow-up period was 6 months. Results: Among the 11 children, 5 were boys and 6 were girls. The age was 3.0 (2.8) years. All 11 children had symptoms of joint swelling and pain as well as limitation of movement. After 3 intra-articular injections of ADA, the joint symptoms of 11 children were better than before treatment; the joint symptoms of 7 children disappeared completely, and no recurrence occurred during the 6-month follow-up period. At different treatment times, physician and parent-child evaluation of disease activity, a gradual decrease in the number of active joints in the children, ESR, and juvenile arthritis disease activity score with 27 joints were all statistically significant (χ²=53.99, 59.37, 32.87, 40.07, 54.00, all P<0.001).No significant adverse drug reactions were observed in any of the 11 children during treatment and follow-up. Conclusion: Intra-articular injection of ADA in the treatment of refractory oligoarticular JIA has a significant effect in controlling joint symptoms and is relatively safe.

[Analysis on characteristics and influencing factors of COVID-19 confirmed cases with viral nucleic acid re-positive after discharge in Guangdong Province]

Objective: To analyze the epidemiological characteristics and influencing factors of COVID-19 confirmed cases with viral nucleic acid re-positive in anal and/or throat swabs after discharge during the domestic imported epidemic stage in Guangdong Province in early 2020. Methods: The COVID-19 confirmed cases with the onset time before March 1, 2020 in Guangdong Province were collected to analyze the demographic data, epidemiological characteristics, and specimen collection and testing data after discharge. Logistic regression model was used for influencing factors analysis of re-positive cases. Results: A total of 1 286 COVID-19 confirmed cases were included, the M(Q₁,Q₃) of age was 44(32,58)years, 617 cases were male, 224 cases were re-positive in anal and/or throat swabs with the re-positive rate 17.42%. The M(Q₁,Q₃) of age of re-positive cases was 35(23, 50) years, which was younger than that of re-negative cases age was those 46(33, 59) years (P<0.001). With the increase of age, re-positive rate decreased (χ²_trend=52.73, P<0.001). 85.27% (191/224) of re-positive cases were found in 14 d after discharge, the duration time of re-positive status was 13(7, 24) d, and 81.69% (183/224) of re-positive cases were re-tested negative in 28 d after re-positive date. No fever and other symptoms had been observed among re-positive cases during the whole follow-up. No secondary infectious cases had been found among close contacts after 14 d of centralized isolation and sampling screening. Univariate logistic regression model analysis revealed that the influencing factors of the re-positive cases included age, occupation, clusters, clinical types, and admission time. Multivariate logistic regression model analysis revealed that age was an independent risk factor. Conclusions: SARS-CoV-2 viral nucleic acid re-positive is found in COVID-19 confirmed cases after discharge in Guangdong Province. Most re-positive cases are confirmed among 14 d after discharge and re-test to negative among 28 d after re-positive date. Age is an risk factor for re-positive cases after discharge.

Development of a high-resolution typing method for SLA-3, swine MHC class I antigen 3

We developed a high-resolution and comprehensive typing method for swine leukocyte antigen 3 (SLA-3), an MHC class I gene, employing locus-specific genomic PCR followed by subsequent direct sequencing. A total of 292 individuals from nine pure, one cross-breed and six cell lines were successfully typed. A total of 21 SLA-3 alleles were identified, of which four were found to be novel alleles. However, the allelic diversity of SLA-3 was lower than that of previously reported class I genes, SLA-1 and -2. More SLA-3 alleles were observed in the Landrace and Yorkshire breeds than the other breeds. SLA-3*04:01 was identified in seven out of nine breeds and was the most widely distributed allele across all breeds. Therefore, the typing method reported in this study completes our efforts to develop high-resolution typing methods for major SLA molecules, facilitating the combined analysis of major SLA genes from field samples, which is important to understand the relationship between the adaptive immune responses against pathogens and the immunogenetic makeup of an individual.

Retinal Changes before and after Silicone Oil Removal in Eyes with Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Using Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the retinal and choroidal thickness and vessel density (VD) changes between silicone oil (SO) tamponade and after SO removal using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) and OCT angiography (OCTA). Thirty patients who underwent pars plana vitrectomy for retinal detachment (RD) with SO tamponade were included. SS-OCT and OCTA were conducted before RD surgery, during SO tamponade, and after SO removal. A 3-dimensional volumetric wide scan protocol was used for the analysis. The segmented retina, choroidal thickness map, and peripapillary thickness were then measured. For the OCTA analysis, 4.5 × 4.5 mm scans were used. Superficial and deep capillary plexus VDs in unaffected fellow eyes and eyes after SO removal were compared. During the SO tamponade period, the thickness of the parafoveal total retina, ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer, and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (ppRNFL) were significantly thinner than those of unaffected fellow eyes (p < 0.05). The parafoveal layer thickness thinning recovered up to three to six months after SO removal. Moreover, six months after SO removal, the parafoveal thickness was not significantly different compared to that of unaffected fellow eyes (p > 0.05). However, the ppRNFL thickness was significantly decreased during SO tamponade and remained unrecovered six months after SO removal. There was no significant difference in the VD on the OCTA. Thus, SO tamponade and removal for RD resulted in a change in the retinal and peripapillary thickness. This may be due to the mechanical pressure effect of SO.

1312 Characteristics of Those Who Present with Self-Inflicted Burns: A Burns Unit Service Evaluation Which Challenges Stereotypes

Introduction

Self-harm rates in the UK are increasing. Healthcare professionals’ beliefs regarding repeat attendance; attention-seeking; and poor treatment compliance may contribute to patients’ stigma. Self-inflicted burns (SIB) constitute a minority of burns cases, but require disproportionate healthcare input, yet little is known about these patients. Our aim was to evaluate presentations, compliance and outcomes in this patient group.

Method

A retrospective audit of outpatients with SIBs attending a UK Burns Unit over four years (Jan 2016-Dec 2019).

Results

Over the study period, 58 patients presented with 94 burn wounds. Incidence doubled over one year (2018-2019). Most patients were female (85%) with a median age of 29 years (range 19-62). The most commonly associated psychiatric diagnosis was personality disorder. On presentation 22% (n = 21) were admitted under the Mental Health Act. For 83% (n = 48) it was their first presentation with a SIB, although 74% had previously presented with non-burn self-harm. Median burn size was 0.5% TBSA, the most common mechanism was contact (48%) and 77% were deep (n = 77). 92% were compliant with treatment and did not tamper with their wounds or dressings.

Conclusions

The majority, 70% (n = 41), of patients only presented once to the Burns Department during the study period. This challenges the commonly held stereotype that those who self-harm will also seek attention through repeat presentation. Ongoing education among health professionals may dispel some myths regarding these individuals. Further, larger investigations, may permit rigorous comparison of treatment outcomes with non-SIB patients.

[Analysis of 13 cases with pediatric rheumatic disease combined with endocrine disorder]

Objective: To summarize the clinical characteristics of children with rheumatic disease combined with endocrine disorder. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data, including sex, age, clinical presentation, laboratory tests, treatment and outcome, of 13 patients with rheumatic diseases combined with endocrine disorder, who were admitted to our department in Children's Hospital, Capital Institute of Pediatrics from January 2014 to December 2020. Results: Among the 13 cases, 3 were males and 10 were females, without family history. Their age was (10±4) years. And the average course of disease was 4.1 months. Eight of them were diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE), 2 with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), 1 with childhood vasculitis, 1 with juvenile-onset systemic sclerosis (JSSc) and 1 had juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM). Regarding the initial presentation, 10 cases had symptoms of rheumatic disease, 2 had polydipsia and polyuria, and 1 had goiter. All the 13 patients had multiple system involvement. Regarding endocrine disorder, 10 had thyroiditis or subclinical thyroiditis, 4 had diabetes mellitus and one had both thyroid and pancreas involvement. Thyroid stimulating hormone in 10 patient with thyroid involvment was 19.6 (5.2-34.0) mU/L, and their total thyroxine was 75.3 (45.2-105.4) nmol/L. Besides, thyroid peroxidase antibody or thyroglobulin antibody was positive in 7 cases. The blood glucose of 4 children with pancreatic injury was 25.0 (17.0-33.0) mmol/L, and C-peptide was 0.4 (0.3-0.5) mg/L. Glutamate dehydrogenase antibody, protein tyrosine phosphatase antibody and zinc transporter 8 antibody were positive in two cases. After treatement with immunosuppressant or immunoglobulin combined with glucocorticoid or nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs for rheumatic symptoms, and levothyroxine or insulin for endocrine diseases, they were all followed up for more than 6 months and maintained clinical stability. Conclusions: Rheumatic diseases in children can be complicated with endocrine disorders, and the involved organs are usually thyroid and pancreas. In children with rheumatic disease, thyroid injury usually has subtle onset, whereas pancreas injury develops rapidly, even life-threatening. Insulin should be used persistently under the instruction of endocrinologist.

Differences in school factors associated with adolescent HPV vaccination initiation and completion coverage in three Australian states

BACKGROUND

Schools are the primary setting for the delivery of adolescent HPV vaccination in Australia. Although this strategy has achieved generally high vaccination coverage, gaps persist for reasons that are mostly unknown. This study sought to identify school-level correlates of low vaccination course initiation and completion in New South Wales, Tasmania, and Western Australia to inform initiatives to increase uptake.

METHODS

Initiation was defined as the number of first doses given in a school in 2016 divided by vaccine-eligible student enrolments. Completion was the number of third doses given in a school in 2015-2016 divided by the number of first doses. Low initiation and completion were defined as coverage ≤ 25thpercentile of all reporting schools. We investigated correlations between covariates using Spearman's rank correlation coefficients. Due to multicollinearity, we used univariable logistic regression to investigate associations between school characteristics and low coverage.

RESULTS

Median initiation was 84.7% (IQR: 75.0%-90.4%) across 1,286 schools and median completion was 93.8% (IQR: 86.0%-97.3%) across 1,295 schools. There were strong correlations between a number of school characteristics, particularly higher Indigenous student enrolments and lower attendance, increasing remoteness, higher postcode socioeconomic disadvantage, and smaller school size. Characteristics most strongly associated with low initiation in univariate analyses were small school size, location in Tasmania, and schools catering for special educational needs. Low completion was most strongly associated with schools in Tasmania and Western Australia, remote location, small size, high proportion of Indigenous student enrolments, and low attendance rates.

CONCLUSION

This study provides indicative evidence that characteristics of schools and school populations are associated with the likelihood of low initiation and completion of the HPV vaccination course. The findings will guide further research and help target initiatives to improve vaccination uptake in schools with profiles associated with lower coverage.

The Guts of the Opioid Crisis

Bidirectional interactions of the gut epithelium with commensal bacteria are critical for maintaining homeostasis within the gut. Chronic opioid exposure perturbs gut homeostasis through a multitude of neuro-immune-epithelial mechanisms, resulting in the development of analgesic tolerance, a major underpinning of the current opioid crisis. Differences in molecular mechanisms of opioid tolerance between the enteric and central pain pathways pose a significant challenge for managing chronic pain without untoward gastrointestinal effects.

Biomineralization of Dental Tissues Treated with Silver Diamine Fluoride

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a dental biomaterial used to arrest dental caries. To better understand SDF's mechanism of action, we examined the localization of silver within the tissues of SDF-treated teeth. Carious primary teeth fixed within 2 min of SDF application (SDF-minutes, n = 3), at 3 wk after SDF application in vivo (SDF-weeks, n = 4), and at 2 y after multiple SDF applications in vivo (SDF-multiple, n = 1) were investigated in this study. Carious primary teeth without SDF application (no-SDF, n = 3) served as controls. Mineral density and structural analyses were performed via micro-X-ray computed tomography and scanning electron microscopy. Elemental analyses were performed through X-ray fluorescence microprobe and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopic techniques. SDF-treated teeth revealed higher X-ray-attenuated surface and subsurface regions within carious lesions, and similar regions were not present in no-SDF teeth. Regions of higher mineral density correlated with regions of silver abundance in SDF-treated teeth. The SDF penetration depth was approximated to 0.5 ± 0.02 mm and 0.6 ± 0.05 mm (mean ± SD) for SDF-minutes and SDF-weeks specimens, respectively. A higher percentage of dentin tubular occlusion by silver or calcium phosphate particles was observed in primary teeth treated with SDF-weeks as compared with SDF-minutes. Elemental analysis also revealed zinc abundance in carious lesions and around the pulp chamber. SDF-weeks teeth had significantly increased tertiary dentin than SDF-minutes and no-SDF teeth. These results suggest that SDF treatment on primary teeth affected by caries promotes pathologic biomineralization by altering their physicochemical properties, occluding dentin tubules, and increasing tertiary dentin volume. These seemingly serendipitous effects collectively contribute to the cariostatic activity of SDF.

FoxO1 as a Regulator of Aquaporin 5 Expression in the Salivary Gland

Forkhead box O1 (FoxO1) is a multifunctional initiator, mediator, and repressor of autoimmune diseases in an organ- or disease-specific manner. However, the role of FoxO1 in the salivary gland has not yet been elucidated. In this study, we discovered that FoxO1 and aquaporin 5 (AQP5) are both significantly downregulated in the patients with primary Sjögren syndrome, an autoimmune disease accompanying salivary gland dysfunction. Pharmacologic or genetic perturbation of FoxO1 in the rat salivary gland acinar cell line, SMG-C6, induced a significant downregulation of AQP5 expression, as observed in clinical specimens. There was a strong correlation between FoxO1 and AQP5 expression because FoxO1 is a direct regulator of AQP5 expression in salivary gland acinar cells through its interaction with the promoter region of AQP5. Serial injection of a FoxO1 inhibitor into mice induced a reduction of AQP5 expression in submandibular glands and, consequently, hyposalivation, which is one of the major clinical symptoms of primary Sjögren syndrome. However, there was no sign of inflammation or cell damage in the submandibular glands harvested from mice treated with the FoxO1 inhibitor. In conclusion, our findings indicate that FoxO1 in salivary gland tissue acts as a direct regulator of AQP5 expression. Thus, downregulation of FoxO1 observed in primary Sjögren syndrome is a putative mechanism for hyposalivation without the involvement of previously reported soluble factors in primary Sjögren syndrome patient sera.