ORTHOPOD: Linking ambulatory future trauma injury distribution from fragility proximal femur fracture caseload

INTRODUCTION

The age of those experiencing traumatic injury and requiring surgery increases. The majority of this increase seen in older patients having operations after accidents is in fragility proximal femur fractures (FPFF). This study designed a model to predict the distribution of fractures suitable for ambulatory trauma list provision based on the number of FPFF patients.

METHODS

The study utilized two datasets which both had data from 64 hospitals. One derived from the ORTHOPOD study dataset, and the other from National Hip Fracture Database. The model tested the predictability of 12 common fracture types based on FPFF data from the two datasets, using linear regression and K-fold cross-validation.

RESULTS

The predictive model showed some promise. Evaluation of the model with mean RMSE and Std RMSE demonstrated good predictive performance for some fracture types, although the r-squared values showed that large variation in these fracture types was not always captured by the model. The study highlighted the dominance of FPFFs, and the strong correlation between these and numbers of ankle and distal radius fractures at a given unit.

DISCUSSION

It is possible to model the numbers of ankle and distal radius fractures based off the number of patients admitted with hip fractures. This has great significance given the drive for increased day case utilisation and bed pressures across health services. While the model's current predictability was limited, with methodological improvements and additional data, a more robust predictive model could be developed to aid in the restructuring of trauma networks and improvement of patient care and surgical outcomes.

A near-infrared fluorescent probe for detecting hydrazine metabolized from isoniazid in living cells

Isoniazid is a drug for treating tuberculosis, but hydrazine (N2 H4 ), the major metabolite of isoniazid, can cause hepatotoxicity. Therefore, monitoring the content of N2 H4 in time is of great significance for studying the hepatotoxicity induced by isoniazid. In this study, a near-infrared fluorescent probe (BC-N) was designed and synthesized based on the specific reaction of acetyl ester with N2 H4 . BC-N exhibits excellent selectivity, sensitivity, and biocompatibility. In addition, BC-N is applied in the visualization of N2 H4 produced from isoniazid in living cells and is a potential tool for monitoring hepatotoxicity induced by isoniazid.

Inhibition of cutaneous heat-sensitive Ca2+ -permeable transient receptor potential vanilloid 3 channels alleviates UVB-induced skin lesions in mice

Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation causes skin injury by trigging excessive calcium influx and signaling cascades in the skin keratinocytes. The heat-sensitive Ca2+ -permeable transient receptor potential vanilloid 3 (TRPV3) channels robustly expressed in the keratinocytes play an important role in skin barrier formation and wound healing. Here, we report that inhibition of cutaneous TRPV3 alleviates UVB radiation-induced skin lesions. In mouse models of ear swelling and dorsal skin injury induced by a single exposure of weak UVB radiation, TRPV3 genes and proteins were upregulated in quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot assays. In accompany with TRPV3 upregulations, the expressions of proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were also increased. Knockout of the TRPV3 gene alleviates UVB-induced ear swelling and dorsal skin inflammation. Furthermore, topical applications of two selective TRPV3 inhibitors, osthole and verbascoside, resulted in a dose-dependent attenuation of skin inflammation and lesions. Taken together, our findings demonstrate the causative role of overactive TRPV3 channel function in the development of UVB-induced skin injury. Therefore, topical inhibition of TRPV3 may hold potential therapy or prevention of UVB radiation-induced skin injury.

Genetic architecture of ear traits based on association mapping and co-expression networks in maize inbred lines and hybrids

Ear traits are key contributors to grain yield in maize; therefore, exploring their genetic basis facilitates the improvement of grain yield. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of ear traits remain obscure in both inbred lines and hybrids. Here, two association panels, respectively, comprising 203 inbred lines (IP) and 246 F1 hybrids (HP) were employed to identify candidate genes for six ear traits. The IP showed higher phenotypic variation and lower phenotypic mean than the HP for all traits, except ear tip-barrenness length. By conducting a genome-wide association study (GWAS) across multiple environments, 101 and 228 significant single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with six ear traits were identified in the IP and HP, respectively. Of these significant SNPs identified in the HP, most showed complete-incomplete dominance and over-dominance effects for each ear trait. Combining a gene co-expression network with GWAS results, 186 and 440 candidate genes were predicted in the IP and HP, respectively, including known ear development genes ids1 and sid1. Of these, nine candidate genes were detected in both populations and expressed in maize ear and spikelet tissues. Furthermore, two key shared genes (GRMZM2G143330 and GRMZM2G171139) in both populations were found to be significantly associated with ear traits in the maize Goodman diversity panel with high-density variations. These findings advance our knowledge of the genetic architecture of ear traits between inbred lines and hybrids and provide a valuable resource for the genetic improvement of ear traits in maize.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11032-023-01426-9.

Characterization of the Isocitrate Dehydrogenase Gene Family and Their Response to Drought Stress in Maize

Isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) is a key rate-limiting enzyme in the tricarboxylic acid cycle and acts in glutamine synthesis. IDH also participates in plant growth and development and in response to abiotic stresses. We identified 11 maize IDH genes (ZmIDH) and classified these genes into ZmNAD-IDH and ZmNADP-IDH groups based on their different coenzymes (NAD+ or NADP+). The ZmNAD-IDH group was further divided into two subgroups according to their catalytic and non-catalytic subunits, as in Arabidopsis. The ZmIDHs significantly differed in physicochemical properties, gene structure, conserved motifs, and protein tertiary structure. Promoter prediction analysis revealed that the promoters of these ZmIDHs contain cis-acting elements associated with light response, abscisic acid, phytohormones, and abiotic stresses. ZmIDH is predicted to interact with proteins involved in development and stress resistance. Expression analysis of public data revealed that most ZmIDHs are specifically expressed in anthers. Different types of ZmIDHs responded to abiotic stresses with different expression patterns, but all exhibited responses to abiotic stresses to some extent. In addition, analysis of the public sequence from transcription data in an association panel suggested that natural variation in ZmIDH1.4 will be associated with drought tolerance in maize. These results suggested that ZmIDHs respond differently and/or redundantly to abiotic stresses during plant growth and development, and this analysis provides a foundation to understand how ZmIDHs respond to drought stress in maize.

[Mammary myofibroblastoma: a clinicopathological analysis of fifteen cases]

Objective: To investigate the clinicopathological features, diagnosis and differential diagnosis of breast myofibroblastoma. Methods: The clinicopathological data and prognostic information of 15 patients with breast myofibroblastoma diagnosed at the Department of Pathology of the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China from 2014 to 2022 were collected. Their clinical characteristics, histological subtypes, immunophenotypes and molecular characteristics were analyzed. Results: There were 12 female and 3 male patients, ranging in age from 18 to 78 years, with a median and average age of 52 years. There were 6 cases in the left breast and 9 cases in the right breast, including 12 cases in outer upper quadrant, 2 cases in inner upper quadrant and 1 case in outer lower quadrant. Most of the cases showed a well-defined nodule grossly, including pushing growth under the microscope in 13 cases, being completely separated from the surrounding breast tissue in 1 case, and infiltrating growth in 1 case. Among them, 12 cases were classic subtype and composed of occasional spindle cells with varying intervals of collagen fiber bundles; eight cases had a small amount of fat; one case had focal cartilage differentiation; one case was epithelioid subtype, in which epithelioid tumor cells were scattered in single filing or small clusters; one case was schwannoma-like subtype, and the tumor cells were arranged in a significant palisade shape, resembling schwannoma, and one case was invasive leiomyoma-like subtype, in which the tumor cells had eosinophilic cytoplasm and were arranged in bundles, and infiltrating into the surrounding mammary lobules like leiomyoma. Immunohistochemical studies showed that the tumor cells expressed desmin (14/15) and CD34 (14/15), as well as ER (15/15) and PR (15/15). Three cases with histologic subtypes of epithelioid subtype, schwannoma-like subtype and infiltrating leiomyoma-like subtype showed RB1 negative immunohistochemistry. Then FISH was performed to detect RB1/13q14 gene deletion, and identified RB1 gene deletion in all three cases. Fifteen cases were followed up for 2-100 months, and no recurrence was noted. Conclusions: Myofibroblastoma is a rare benign mesenchymal tumor of the breast. In addition to the classic type, there are many histological variants, among which the epithelioid subtype is easily confused with invasive lobular carcinoma. The schwannoma-like subtype is similar to schwannoma, while the invasive subtype is easily misdiagnosed as fibromatosis-like or spindle cell metaplastic carcinoma. Therefore, it is important to recognize the various histological subtypes and clinicopathological features of the tumor for making correct pathological diagnosis and rational clinical treatment.

[Attention should be paid to futile recanalization after endovascular treatment in acute ischemic stroke]

With the accumulation of research evidence and clinical experience, an increasing number of patients benefit from vascular recanalization therapies. Although successful recanalization of the occluded artery has been achieved, neurological deficits persist after endovascular treatment, which defined as"futile reperfusion". Compared with the successful recanalization, successful reperfusion predicts final infarct size and clinical outcome more accurately. At present, the known influencing factors of futile reperfusion include older age, female, high baseline National Institute of Health stroke scale (NIHSS) score, hypertension, diabetes, atrial fibrillation, reperfusion treatment strategy, large infarction core volume, and collateral circulation status. The incidence of futile reperfusion in China is significantly higher than that in western population. However, few studies focused on its mechanism and influencing factors. To date, many clinical studies have attempted to reduce the occurrence of futile recanalization regarding antiplatelet therapy, blood pressure management and treatment process improvement. However, only one effective measure has been achieved in blood pressure management: systolic blood pressure control below 120 mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa) should be avoided after successful recanalization. Therefore, future studies are warranted to promote the establishment and maintenance of collateral circulation, as well as neuroprotective therapy.

[Comparison of clinical features of JAK2V617F gene mutation and non-mutation in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome]

Objective: To investigate the clinical features of JAK2V617F gene mutation and non-mutation in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS). Methods: 17 and 127 BCS cases with JAK2V617F gene mutation (mutation group) and non-gene mutation (non-mutation group) who were continuously treated with interventional therapy between January 2016 to December 2020 in the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University were selected as the research object for a comparative study. The hospitalization and follow-up data of the two groups were analyzed retrospectively, and the deadline for follow-up was June 2021. Quantitative data group differences were analyzed using the independent sample t-test and Wilcoxon rank sum test. Qualitative data group differences were analyzed with χ² test or Fisher's exact test. Mann-Whitney U test was used to analyze the differences between groups in rank data. Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate the patient survival and recurrence rate. Results: Age [(35.41±17.10) years vs. (50.09±14.16) years, t=3.915, P<0.001], time of onset (median duration: 3 months vs. 12 months), and the cumulative survival rate (65.5% vs 95.1%; χ²=5.21, P=0.022) were lower in mutation than non-mutation group. Aaspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, prothrombin time, Child-Pugh score, Rotterdam score, Model for End-stage Liver Disease score, hepatic vein thrombosis incidence, and the cumulative recurrence rate after intervention were higher in mutation than non-mutation group. The above all indexes had statistically significant differences (P<0.05) between the groups. Conclusion: Younger age, acute onset, severe liver injury, high incidence of hepatic vein thrombosis, and poor prognosis are the features of patients with BCS with JAK2V617F gene mutation than non-mutation.

A novel near-infrared fluorescent probe for visualization of intracellular hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) as a crucial reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays a crucial role in redox signaling in physiological and pathological processes of living cells. Its normal production is closely related to signal transduction of living cells. Overproduction of H₂O₂in vivo has been proved to be related to many diseases. Some were developed to reveal the roles of H₂O₂. However, current fluorescent probes for the detection of H₂O₂ are restricted in their short emission wavelengths and small Stokes shifts that significantly decrease the sensitivity of detection and cellular visualization. In this work, a novel fluorescent probe BC-B was designed and synthesized with pinacol phenylboronic acid ester as a recognition group and near-infrared fluorophore BC-OH as a reporter group. BC-B probe exhibits a large Stokes shift (122 nm) and near-infrared emission (672 nm), showing an excellent selectivity and sensitivity in detection of H₂O₂ with the limit of 0.003 μmol/L. Confocal fluorescence imaging further demonstrates that BC-B can be used for detecting endogenous H₂O₂ in living cells.

A super sensitive fluorescent probe for imaging endogenous hydrogen sulfide in living cells

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) that typically performs biphasic biological functions in organisms plays an opposite role at the concentrations above or below normal level of the organism. Therefore, it is significant to develop a fluorescent probe with high sensitivity and selectivity and rapid response for the detection of hydrogen sulfide in vivo. The work describes the design and biological applications of a novel turn-on fluorescence probe SS-N₃ in which the quinoline quaternary ammonium salt derivative is introduced as the fluorescent skeleton and azide is employed as the detection group of H₂S. The probe SS-N₃ shows strong fluorescence at 610 nm, as the azide group is reduced to an amino group by H₂S. The probe SS-N₃ shows high selectivity to H₂S than other anions and some biological mercaptans, and strong anti-interference capacity. In addition, the probe SS-N₃ exhibits little cytotoxicity, improved photostability and large Stokes shift (135 nm), as well as can be effectively used as an indicator of H₂S level in living cells.

[Interpretation of Chinese expert consensus recommendations for the diagnosis and management of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis associated with lymphoma (2022)]

Chinese expert consensus recommendations for the diagnosis and management of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) associated with lymphoma was revised on the basis of evidence-based medical evidence in combination with domestic and international research progress. It added the classification of "according to the difference in the causes of HLH". For the first time, the revised version included the classification of lymphoma-associated HLH induced by immunotherapy. The contents of genetic background defects and central nervous system involvement in lymphoma-associated HLH were also supplemented. This article gives a detailed interpretation of the updated content in the consensus.

miR-34a-5p plays an inhibitory role in hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating target gene VEGFA

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this research is to determine the role of miR-34a-5p in the occurrence and development of HCC by targeting VEGFA.

METHODS

The expression of miR-34a-5p in HCC cell lines and tumour tissue was detected by qRT-PCR; the effect of miR-34a-5p on the invasive ability of HCC cells (SMMC7721 and MHCC97H) were detected by Transwell invasion assay; VEGFA is predicted as a potential target gene of miR-34a-5p by TargetScan, and validated with dual-luciferase reporter gene assay, qRT-PCR and western blot. VEGFA expression in HCC cell lines and tumour tissue was detected using qRT-PCR; the regulation and influence of miR-34a-5p and VEGFA on the proliferation, invasion, migration and the S-phase cell of HCC cells with different invasive abilities were detected by CCK8, Transwell assay, wound healing assay, and flow cytometry. The effect of miR-34a-5p on the growth of tumour was detected by constructing a xenograft model of nude mice with HCC.

RESULTS

It was found that the expression of miR-34a-5p in HCC cells and tumour tissue was significantly decreased. Up-regulating miR-34a-5p expression could reduce the invasion ability of HCC cells. MiR-34a-5p could inhibit the mRNA and protein expression level of VEGFA via combining with the 3'-UTR of VEGFA. VEGFA was highly expressed in HCC cells and tumour tissues. The miR-34a-5p inhibited the proliferation, invasion, migration and S-phase arrest of HCC cells, but this inhibition effect could be neutralised by VEGFA; miR-34a-5p exerted the inhibitory effect on HCC cell proliferation and tumour growth in the HCC xenograft model of nude mice.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that miR-34a-5p could inhibit the occurrence and development of HCC by targeting VEGFA.

[Analysis of risk factors for hemorrhage in patients with acute poisoning treated with hemoperfusion]

Objective: To explore the clinical characterist ics and risk factors of hemorrhage complicated by hemoperfusion therapy in patients with acute poisoning. Methods: In January 2021, the clinical data of 196 patients with acute poisoning who received hemoperfusion therapy in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Military Medical University from January 2018 to December 2020 were analyzed, and the patients were divided into bleeding group and non-bleeding group according to whether the patients were complicated with bleeding. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the independent risk factors for hemorrhage in patients treated with hemoperfusion. Results: A total of 21 patients in the bleeding group and 175 patients in the non-bleeding group were included. There was no significant difference in general data such as gender, age, and body mass index between the two groups (P>0.05) . Organophosphorus pesticides (χ(2)= 4.56, P=0.030) , HA230 perfusion device (χ(2)=4.12, P=0.042) , platelet count (t=-2.33, P=0.009) and activated partial thromboplastin time (t=14.53, P<0.001) at 2 h of perfusion were the influencing factors of hemorrhage in patients with acute poisoning treated with hemoperfusion. Among them, organophosphorus pesticides, 2 h perfusion activated partial thromboplastin time ≥35 s and other factors were independent risk factors forcomplicated bleeding (P<0.05) . Conclusion: Patients with acute poisoning, especially organophosphorus pesticide poisoning, are at greater risk of bleeding during hemoperfusion therapy. Monitoring of changes in activated partial thromboplastin time should be strengthened and the dose of anticoagulants should be adjusted in time to reduce the risk of bleeding.

A fluorogenic probe for TRPA1 channel imaging based on a molecular rotation mechanism

A fluorescent probe for selectively visualizing the TRPA1 channel and rapidly screening its regulators.

Antagonistic Mechanism of α-Conotoxin BuIA toward the Human α3β2 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are pentameric ligand-gated ion channels that are abundantly expressed in the central and peripheral nervous systems, playing an important role in mediating neurotransmitter release and inter-synaptic signaling. Dysfunctional nAChRs are associated with neurological disorders, and studying the structure and function of nAChRs is essential for development of drugs or strategies for treatment of related diseases. α-Conotoxins are selective antagonists of the nAChR and are an important class of drug leads. So far, the antagonistic mechanism of α-conotoxins toward the nAChRs is still unclear. In this study, we built an α3β2 nAChR homology model and investigated its conformational transition mechanism upon binding with a highly potent inhibitor, α-conotoxin BuIA, through μs molecular dynamic simulations and site-directed mutagenesis studies. The results suggested that the α3β2 nAChR underwent global conformational transitions and was stabilized into a closed state with three hydrophobic gates present in the transmembrane domain by BuIA. Finally, the probable antagonistic mechanism of BuIA was proposed. Overall, the closed-state model of the α3β2 nAChR bound with BuIA is not only essential for understanding the antagonistic mechanism of α-conotoxins but also particularly valuable for development of therapeutic inhibitors in future.

Photosensitive and Photoswitchable TRPA1 Agonists Optically Control Pain through Channel Desensitization

Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) channel, as a nonselective ligand-gated cation channel robustly in dorsal root ganglion sensory neurons, is implicated in sensing noxious stimuli and nociceptive signaling. However, small-molecule tools targeting TRPA1 lack temporal and spatial resolution, limiting their use for validation of TRPA1 as a therapeutic target for pain. In our previous work, we found that 4,4'-(diazene-1,2-diyl)dianiline (AB1) is a photoswitchable TRPA1 agonist, but the poor water solubility and activity hinder its further development. Here, we report a series of specific and potent azobenzene-derived photoswitchable TRPA1 agonists (series 1 and 2) that enable optical control of the TRPA1 channel. Two representative compounds 1g and 2c can alleviate capsaicin-induced pain in the cheek model of mice through channel desensitization but not in TRPA1 knockout mice. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that photoswitchable TRPA1 agonists can be used as pharmacological tools for study of pain signaling.

Sentinel lymph node biopsy with carbon nanoparticle suspension after neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer patients

INTRODUCTION

The aim of the study was to explore the feasibility of performing sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) using a carbon nanoparticle suspension (CNPS) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer patients.

METHODS

Some 152 patients diagnosed with primary breast cancer (cT1-3N0-2M0) were recruited. Patients were divided into two groups according to axillary lymph node (ALN) status after four to six cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. All patients received a CNPS injection, after which SLNB and axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) were performed.

RESULTS

Sentinel lymph nodes (SLN) of 143 patients were identified; with an accuracy rate of 94.4% and a false-negative rate of 9.9%. Group A included 67 patients, and the detection, accuracy and false-negative rates within this group were 95.5%, 96.9% and 6.7%, respectively. The corresponding rates for group B (85 patients) were 92.9%, 92.4% and 11.8%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

CNPS is an ideal tracer for improving the detection rate of SLN and can be used to determine SLN status following neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Plant Nutrient Contents Rather Than Physical Traits Are Coordinated Between Leaves and Roots in a Desert Shrubland

Although leaf economics spectrum (LES) has been extensively tested with regional and global datasets, the correlation among functional traits of desert plants remains largely unclear. Moreover, examinations on whether and how leaf and root traits are coordinated have yielded mixed results. We investigated variations in leaf and fine-root traits across 48 species in a desert community of northern China to test the hypotheses that (1) the leaf-trait syndrome of plant species in desert shrublands follows the predictions of the global LES, and is paralleled by a similar root-trait syndrome, (2) functional traits related to nutrient contents and resource uptake are tightly coordinated between leaves and fine roots in desert ecosystems where plant growth is limited primarily by dry and nutrient-poor conditions, and (3) traits as well as their relationships vary among functional groups. Our results partially supported the LES theory. Specific leaf area (SLA) was correlated with leaf tissue density, phosphorus content, and carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, but not with leaf nitrogen content. Specific root length (SRL) was not correlated with other fine-root traits, and fine-root traits were largely independent of each other. Therefore, fine-root traits did not mirror the leaf-trait syndrome. Fine-root nitrogen and phosphorus contents, nitrogen-to-phosphorous ratio, and carbon-to-nitrogen ratio all increased with analogous leaf traits, whereas SRL was not correlated with SLA. After phylogenetic effects were considered, nutrient contents and their ratios still displayed stronger coordination between leaves and fine roots than did SRL and SLA. The overall pattern of trait variations and relationships suggested differentiation among functional groups. Our results suggest that despite the absence of a root-trait syndrome, fine-root functions in the studied desert community were probably coordinated with leaf functions with respect to nutrient allocation and use.

[Analysis of curative efficacy of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt using viabahn stent in the treatment of Budd-Chiari syndrome with extensive hepatic vein occlusion]

Objective: To investigate the efficacy of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) using viabahn stent in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) with extensive hepatic vein occlusion. Methods: Technical success rates, portal pressure gradient (PPG), complications and shunt patency rate of 25 cases with BCS with extensive hepatic vein occlusion treated by TIPS using viabahn stent were retrospectively analyzed. Color Doppler ultrasound was used for postoperative follow-up. Patency rates were evaluated by Kaplan-Meier curve. Results: The technical success rate of TIPS was 100%. Mean PPG decreased from (22.7 ± 6.2) mmHg preoperatively to (9.7 ± 2.6) mmHg postoperatively (t = 9.58, P < 0.05). Hepatic encephalopathy incidence was 8.0% (2/25), and there were no complications such as intra-abdominal hemorrhage. Twenty-five cases were followed up for 1 to 39 ( mean 19.0 ± 11.9) months, and one patient died of liver failure three months after interventional treatment. The primary patency rates at 1, 2, and 3 years after interventional treatment were 91.3%, 91.3%, and 78.2%, respectively, while the repatency rates were 100%, 92.9%, and 92.9%, respectively. Conclusion: TIPS using viabahn stent can bring better short-term and mid-term curative efficacy in treatment of BCS with extensive hepatic vein occlusion.

Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel Triazine Derivatives as Positive Allosteric Modulators of α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors

Enhancing neuronal α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7 nAChR) function can alleviate cognitive deficits. Here, we report the design, synthesis, and evaluation of N-(4-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)-1,3,5-triazin-2-amine derivatives 8-10 as a series of novel α7 nAChR positive allosteric modulators (PAMs). The representative compound 10e functions as a type I PAM with an EC50 of 3.0 μM and approximately 38-fold enhancement of α7 current in the presence of agonist acetylcholine (100 μM). It specifically enhances α7 current with high selectivity. Compound 10e shows good pharmacokinetic property in mice. Intraperitoneal injection of 10e (3 mg/kg) exhibits sufficient blood-brain barrier penetration in mice. Furthermore, 10e can also rescue the auditory gating deficit in mice with schizophrenia-like behavior. Molecular docking of 10e with homopentameric α7 nAChR reveals a new mode of action. These results support the potential of 10e for treatment for schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease.

Detection of lipase activity in human serum based on a ratiometric fluorescent probe

CARA can monitor lipase activity through hydrolyzing the ester bond to interrupt the FRET process.

CircRNA UBAP2 promotes the progression of ovarian cancer by sponging microRNA-144

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to elucidate the regulatory effect of circular RNA UBAP2 (circUBAP2) on the progression of ovarian cancer (OC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to detect the expressions of circUBAP2, microRNA-144 and CHD2 in OC tissues and adjacent normal tissues. The correlation between the expression levels of circUBAP2 and microRNA-144 with pathological parameters of OC patients was analyzed. Subcellular distribution of circUBAP2 was detected by chromatin fractionation assay. After overexpression of circUBAP2 in OC cells, changes in proliferative and migratory abilities were evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and transwell assay, respectively. In addition, the Dual-Luciferase reporter gene assay was used to verify the binding of circUBAP2 and microRNA-144, and the binding of CHD2 to microRNA-144.

RESULTS

QRT-PCR results showed that circUBAP2 was highly expressed in OC tissues, and its expression was negatively correlated with TMN stage and five-year survival of OC patients. CircUBAP2 was mainly distributed in the cytoplasm. Overexpression of circUBAP2 significantly promoted the proliferative and migratory abilities of OC cells. The Dual-Luciferase reporter gene assay demonstrated that circUBAP2 could bind to microRNA-144. Meanwhile, circUBAP2 negatively regulated microRNA-144 expression in OC cells. Besides, the promotive effects of circUBAP2 on the proliferation and migration of OC cells were reversed by microRNA-144 overexpression. MicroRNA-144 was lowly expressed in OC tissues, which was negatively correlated with TNM stage of OC patients. The Dual-Luciferase reporter gene assay confirmed the binding condition between CHD2 and microRNA-144. CHD2 expression was negatively regulated by microRNA-144 in OC cells. Moreover, CHD2 could bind to microRNA-144 and partially inhibited its activity, thereby promoting the proliferative and migratory abilities of OC cells.

CONCLUSIONS

CircUBAP2 promotes the progression of ovarian cancer by adsorbing microRNA-144.

Identification of Ear Morphology Genes in Maize (Zea mays L.) Using Selective Sweeps and Association Mapping

The performance of maize hybrids largely depend on two parental inbred lines. Improving inbred lines using artificial selection is a key task in breeding programs. However, it is important to elucidate the effects of this selection on inbred lines. Altogether, 208 inbred lines from two maize heterosis groups, named Shaan A and Shaan B, were sequenced by the genotype-by-sequencing to detect genomic changes under selection pressures. In addition, we completed genome-wide association analysis in 121 inbred lines to identify candidate genes for ear morphology related traits. In a genome-wide selection scan, the inbred lines from Shaan A and Shaan B groups showed obvious population divergences and different selective signals distributed in 337 regions harboring 772 genes. Meanwhile, functional enrichment analysis showed those selected genes are mainly involved in regulating cell development. Interestingly, some ear morphology related traits showed significant differentiation between the inbred lines from the two heterosis groups. The genome-wide association analysis of ear morphology related traits showed that four associated genes were co-localized in the selected regions with high linkage disequilibrium. Our spatiotemporal pattern and gene interaction network results for the four genes further contribute to our understanding of the mechanisms behind ear and fruit length development. This study provides a novel insight into digging a candidate gene for complex traits using breeding materials. Our findings in relation to ear morphology will help accelerate future maize improvement.

Identification of two natural coumarin enantiomers for selective inhibition of TRPV2 channels

Thermosensitive transient receptor potential vanilloid 2 (thermoTRPV2) is a nonselective Ca²⁺ -permeable cation channel broadly expressed, and is implicated in the pathology of diseases such as diabetes and pancreatitis. However, the physiological and pharmacological functions of TRPV2 channels have not been extensively investigated because of the absence of specific modulators. In this study, we report a pair of natural coumarin derivative enantiomers (-)-murraxocin (B304-1) and (+)-murraxocin (B304-2) from Murraya exotica for their selective inhibition of TRPV2 channels expressed in HEK293 cells and native TRPV2 currents in differentiated brown adipocytes. Whole-cell patch clamp recordings confirmed the enantiomers B304-1 and B304-2 could selectively inhibit the agonist mediated activation of TRPV2 current with IC₅₀ values of 22.2 ± 7.8 μM and 3.7 ± 0.7 μM, respectively. Molecular docking and site-directed mutagenesis revealed a key residue I600 of TRPV2 critical for the binding of the enantiomers. Furthermore, B304-1 and B304-2 significantly reversed TRPV2 agonist-induced inhibition of mouse brown adipocyte differentiation. Taken together, our identification of two natural coumarin enantiomers provides valuable tools and chemical leads for further elucidation of TRPV2 channel function, and pharmacological modulation of thermoTRPV2 in brown adipocytes may represent a new therapeutic strategy for treatment of energy imbalance or metabolic disorders.

Highly Efficient Cell Membrane Tracker Based on a Solvatochromic Dye with Near-Infrared Emission

The cell membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins and maintains cell homeostasis through dynamic changes. An abnormal cell membrane shape could be a sign of unhealthy cells. Probes for subcellular fluorescence imaging that can identify the abnormal plasma membrane and record the dynamic changes are needed. Based on a solvatochromic dye with a near-infrared emission strategy, the amphipathic molecule (E)-2,2'-((4-(2-(4-(dicyanomethylene)-4H-chromen-2-yl)vinyl)phenyl)azanediyl)bis(ethane-1-sulfonic acid) (MRL) contained a hydrophilic sulfo group and a hydrophobic chromone group, which was designed and synthesized for staining the cell membrane and monitoring the morphology of the membranes under different conditions. MRL exhibited an excellent photostability and low cytotoxicity; when cells were incubated with MRL, cell membranes were specifically labeled. MRL is capable of long-term monitoring of the morphological changes of cell membrane.

Visualizing TRPA1 in the Plasma Membrane for Rapidly Screening Optical Control Agonists via a Photochromic Ligand Based Fluorescent Probe

Fluorescent probes have been used as effective methods for profiling proteins in biological systems because of their high selectivity, sensitivity, and temporal-spatial resolution. A specific fluorescent probe for understanding the function of the transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) channel that is closely related with various diseases like persistent pain, respiratory, and chronic itch syndromes, however, is still lacking. Here, we report a "turn-on" fluorescent probe (A1CA) for visualizing TRPA1 channels in the plasma membrane of live cells based on a photochromic ligand derived from 4-(phenylazo)benzenamine. Evaluating the specificity and sensitivity of A1CA by electrophysiology and confocal imaging showed that the A1CA probe displays higher affinity and selectivity to TRPA1 channel versus all other ion channels including TRPV1, TRPV3, Nav1.4, Nav1.5, and hERG. Based on the supporting evidence, A1CA has great potential as a molecular imaging probe for high-throughput screening of novel TRPA1 agonists.

Synthesis and biological activity study of the retro-isomer of RhTx against TRPV1

TRPV1 is a ligand-gated ion channel and plays an important role in detecting noxious heat and pain with an unknown mechanism. RhTx from Chinese red-headed centipede activates the TRPV1 channel through the heat activation pathway by binding to the outer pore region, and causes extreme pain. Here, we synthesized RhTx and its retro-isomer RL-RhTx. Their structures were investigated by their circular dichroic spectra and NMR spectra. The effect of RhTx and RL-RhTx on the currents of wild-type and mutants of TRPV1 indicated that RL-RhTx have comparable TRPV1 activation responses to RhTx. A mutagenesis study showed that four TRPV1 residues, including Leu461, Asp602, Tyr632 and Thr634, significantly contributed to the activation effects of RL-RhTx and RhTx, and both peptides probably bind with TRPV1 in similar binding modes. As a novel TRPV1 activator, RL-RhTx provides an essential powerful tool for the investigation of activation mechanisms of TRPV1.

A highly selective and sensitive fluorescent probe based on the chromone fluorophore for imaging hydrogen sulfide in living cells

A fluorescent probe that was designed based on the 6-amino chromone fluorophore for detecting H₂S can distinguish H₂S from Cys/GSH under acidic conditions.

A highly sensitive ratiometric fluorescent probe for imaging endogenous hydrogen sulfide in cells

A novel fluorescent probe (QL-N3) has high potential to detect the concentration of endogenous hydrogen sulfide in cells.

[Preliminary application of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in individualized treatment of patients with cirrhotic portal hypertension complicated with refractory ascites and variceal hemorrhage]

Objective: To investigate the feasibility, efficacy and safety of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) in the individualized treatment of patients with refractory ascites and variceal hemorrhage caused by portal hypertension. Methods: Prospective study of clinical data of 47 patients with portal hypertension and refractory ascites and variceal bleeding admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University from August 2017 to December 2018, 26 males and 21 females, aged 23-75 (52±14) years old. The Viabahn stent was used to control the diameter of the shunt and the preoperative interval of PPG after individualized TIPS was determined according to the preoperative liver function Child-Pugh classification. The PPG of the Child A and B patients was <10 mm Hg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa), Child-Pugh C grade patients with postoperative PPG interval values of 12 to 15 mmHg. The success rate, hemostasis rate, ascites remission rate, and complication rate were recorded. Results: Forty-seven patients were with a success rate of 100%, and there was no surgically related fatal complications. The portal pressure gradients of patients with Child-Pugh A, B and Child-Pugh C were reduced from preoperative (22.5±5.4), (24.4±2.6) mm Hg to postoperative (8.8±2.5), (13.2±1.1) mm Hg (all P<0.05). All the patients were followed up for 6 to 24 months, with a median follow-up of 13 months. The success rate of hemostasis in patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding was 93.5% (29/31), the remission rate of patients with refractory ascites was 14/16, the postoperative rebleeding rate was 6.5% (2/31), the incidence of hepatic encephalopathy was 8.5% (4/47), and the shunt disorder was 2.1% (1/47). Conclusion: The use of Viabahn stent for individualized TIPS in the treatment of portal hypertension with refractory ascites and variceal hemorrhage is feasible, and the clinical efficacy is affirmative, which can reduce the incidence of postoperative hepatic encephalopathy and shunt dysfunction.

Long non-coding RNA ZEB1-AS1 promotes glioma cell proliferation, migration and invasion through regulating miR-577

OBJECTIVE

Long non-coding RNA ZEB1-AS1 (ZEB1-AS1) was reported to be implicated and aberrantly expressed in multiple cancers. However, the potential mechanism and clinical significance of ZEB1-AS1 in the carcinogenesis of glioma remain unclear.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

RT-PCR was performed to determine the expression of ZEB1-AS1 in glioma tissues and cell lines. The association between ZEB1-AS1 expression and clinical features and prognosis were statistically analyzed. MTT and transwell assays were used to test the proliferation, invasion, and migration of glioma cells. Luciferase report assay was used to detect the correlation between ZEB1-AS1 and miR-577 in glioma.

RESULTS

Compared with normal brain tissues and cells, ZEB1-AS1 in glioma tissues and cell lines was shown to be expressed at high levels. Clinical association analysis indicated that ZEB1-AS1 expression was closely associated with tumor size (p = 0.014), KPS (p = 0.004) and WHO grade (p = 0.001). In addition, it was observed that high expression level of ZEB1-AS1 was remarkably associated with overall survival and could be an independent prognostic indicator of glioma using univariate and multivariate analysis. Functional experiments demonstrated that down-regulation of ZEB1-AS1 suppressed the proliferation, invasion, and migration of glioma cell in vitro. In the mechanism, we found that ZEB1-AS1 acted as a competing endogenous RNA to sponge miR-577. Moreover, miR-577 could reverse the tumor-promotive role of ZEB1-AS1 on glioma cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrated that ZEB1-AS1 might play an oncogenic role in glioma and was a poor prognostic factor. The ZEB1-AS1/miR-577 axis might be a potential target for the development of effective glioma therapy.

Effect of RhoC silencing on multiple myeloma xenografts and angiogenesis in nude mice

In this study, we investigated the expression of RhoC in the multiple myeloma (MM) cell line RPMI- 8226, as well as the effects of silencing RhoC on the growth of tumor xenografts and tumor-induced angiogenesis in nude mice with MM. For this purpose, we transduced RPMI-8226 cells with lentiviral particles overexpressing short hairpin RNAs (shRNA) targeting RhoC. Tumor xenografts were generated by subcutaneously injecting nude mice with RPMI-8226 cells overexpressing control shRNA [negative control (NC) group] or the RhoC shRNA [the experimental (S) group], respectively. RhoC protein and mRNA levels in the tumor xenografts were measured. Nude mice were also subcutaneously inoculated with Matrigel mixed with vascular endothelial growth factor, and CD31 and KI67 levels in the tumor xenografts were measured by immunohistochemistry. Similarly, we assessed tumor xenograft growth and angiogenesis in Matrigel implants in the mice of both groups. We found that RhoC levels, microvessel density, and CD31 labeling index were more reduced in the S group than in the NC group. However, there was no significant difference in the size of tumor xenografts between the 2 groups. The number of new vessels and the neovascular length in the Matrigel implants were significantly lower in the S group than in the NC group. Therefore, we concluded that RhoC expression in myeloma xenografts has important effects on the induction of angiogenesis.

The visualization of hERG channels in living cells via a fluorescent probe regulated by the synergy between solvatochromism and molecular rotation based on simple targeting of the group 4-benzylaniline

A highly sensitive fluorescent probe CBH based on solvatochromism and molecular rotation was designed and developed for imaging of hERG channels by employing a novel targeting group 4-benzylaniline. More importantly, CBH has the potential for the quantitative analysis of the hERG channels expressed in tumor cells.

Back-projection algorithm in generalized form for circular-scanning-based photoacoustic tomography with improved tangential resolution

Background

The back-projection algorithm is the most common method for the reconstruction of circular-scanning-based photoacoustic tomography (CSPAT) due to its simplicity, computational efficiency, and robustness. It usually can be implemented in two models: one for ideal point detector, and the other for planar transducer with infinite element size. However, because most transducers in CSPAT are planar with a finite size, the off-center targets will be blurred in the tangential direction with these two reconstruction models.

Methods

Here in this paper, we put forward a new model of the back projection algorithm for the reconstruction of CSPAT with finite size planar transducer, in which the acoustic spatial temporal response of the employed finite size transducer is approximated with a virtual detector placed at an optimized distance behind the transducer, and the optimized distance is determined by a phase square difference minimization scheme. Notably, this proposed method can also be suitable for reconstruction with the ideal point detector and infinite planar detector, and thus is a generalized form of the back-projection algorithm.

Results

Compared with the two conventional models of the back-projection method and the modified back-projection method, the proposed method in this work can significantly improve the tangential resolution of off-center targets, thus improving the reconstructed image quality. These findings are validated with both simulations and experiments.

Conclusions

We propose a generalized model of the back projection algorithm to restore the elongated tangential resolution in CSPAT in case of a planar transducer of finite size, which can also be applicable for point and large-size planar transducers. This proposed method may also guide the design of CSPAT scanning configurations for potential applications such as human breast imaging for cancer detection.

[The ratio of tuberculosis-specific antigen to phytohemagglutinin in T-SPOT assay in the diagnosis of active tuberculosis]

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the performance of the ratio of tuberculosis-specific antigen (TBAg) to phytohemagglutinin (PHA) (TBAg/PHA ratio) in T-SPOT assay in the diagnosis of active tuberculosis (ATB). Methods: Between January 2014 and January 2017, 378 Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) culture positive patients (268 cases of pulmonary tuberculosis, 110 extra-pulmonary tuberculosis) and 824 healthy individuals were recruited from Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology. T-SPOT assay was performed and TBAg/PHA ratio was calculated in all the participants. To validate the study, another group of 223 MTB culture positive TB patients with positive T-SPOT results were recruited from Guangzhou Chest Hospital between January 2017 and December 2017. This was a retrospective case-control study and differences between groups were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U-test. Results: Of the 378 culture positive ATB patients, 344 patients had positive T-SPOT results. Of the 824 healthy individuals, 204 individuals had positive T-SPOT results. Using healthy individuals as the control group, the sensitivity and specificity of T-SPOT assay in the diagnosis of ATB were 91.0% (344/378) and 75.2% (620/824). Directly using T-SPOT results had a limited accuracy in distinguishing ATB from latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI). The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was between 0.7 and 0.8. However, a further calculation of the TBAg/PHA ratio showed a better performance than TBAg in distinguishing these two conditions, and the area under the ROC curve was 0.881 (95% CI: 0.853-0.909). If using the threshold value of 0.234, the sensitivity and specificity of the TBAg/PHA ratio in distinguishing ATB from LTBI were 69.5% (239/344) and 94.12% (192/204). The validation data showed that the performance of the TBAg/PHA ratio in distinguishing ATB from LTBI was also satisfactory, and the area under the ROC curve was 0.901 (95% CI: 0.872-0.931). Furthermore, the TBAg/PHA ratio had an important role in the diagnosis of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis. If using the threshold value of 0.234, the sensitivity and specificity of the TBAg/PHA ratio in the diagnosis of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis were 79.2% (76/96) and 94.1% (192/204). The area under the ROC curve was 0.932 (95% CI: 0.897-0.967). Conclusions: The TBAg/PHA ratio in T-SPOT assay was better than directly using T-SPOT results in distinguishing ATB from LTBI. This ratio also showed a potential use in the diagnosis of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis.

Knockdown of PLK1 inhibits invasion and promotes apoptosis in glioma cells through regulating autophagy

OBJECTIVE

Polo like kinase 1 (PLK1), an oncogene, is a ubiquitously expressed serine/threonine protein kinase. We aimed at investigating the role of PLK1 in glioma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Clinical glioma specimens were obtained from Zhejiang Hospital (Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China). The mRNA and protein levels of PLK1 in glioma tissues and different glioma cells were analyzed by Real-time PCR and Western blot, respectively. The expression of PLK1 protein in glioma tissues was also determined by immunohistochemistry staining. Then, the effect of PLK1 on cell proliferation and apoptosis of U251 and U87 cells was analyzed by using CCK-8 assay and Annexin V/PI staining, respectively. Furthermore, the migration and invasion of glioma cells were examined by transwell assay. Finally, the protein levels of autophagy indicators LC3-II, ATG5 and p-p70 S6 in U251 and U87 cells were detected by Western blot, and the expression of E-cadherin, vimentin and MMP9 and apoptosis associated indicators Bax, cleaved caspase-3 and Bcl-2 in U251 cells were also determined using Western blot.

RESULTS

PLK1 was upregulated in glioma tissues and cells. Knockdown of PLK1 significantly inhibited cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and induced apoptosis of U87 and U251 glioma cells. Furthermore, the data demonstrated that knockdown of PLK1 significantly elevated expression of cleaved caspase-3, BIM, BAX, and E-cadherin, and reduced expression of MMP9, ATG5 and LC3-II in U251 and U87 cells. Additionally, we found that knockdown of PLK1 can inhibit autophagy in glioma cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Knockdown of PLK1 can inhibit the glioma development by suppressing the autophagy and enhancing the apoptosis of glioma cells. PLK1 may be a potential therapeutic target in gliomas.

Cockroach is a major cross-reactive allergen source in shrimp-sensitized rural children in southern China

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the prevalence of food allergy (FA) in China. The aim of this study was to investigate the disparity of FA between urban and rural areas in southern China.

METHODS

EuroPrevall questionnaire responses were obtained from 5542 school-age children in urban Guangzhou and 5319 in rural Shaoguan. A case-control study enrolled 190 children with adverse reactions (ARs) after food intake as cases and 212 controls in Guangzhou, whereas 116 cases and 233 controls in Shaoguan. These subjects underwent skin prick test (SPT) and serum IgE measurements to food and inhalant allergens. Allergen extracts from shrimp, house dust mite (HDM), and cockroach were prepared for IgE cross-reactivity testing in 23 Guangzhou and 20 Shaoguan shrimp-sensitized subjects.

RESULTS

The prevalence of ARs to shrimp was higher in Guangzhou than in Shaoguan children (3.5% vs 1.4%, P < .001). However, sensitization rate to shrimp (SPT: 3.7% vs 11.2%, P = .015; IgE: 12.6% vs 36.2%, P < .001) and cockroach (SPT: 5.3% vs 33.5%; IgE: 2.6% vs 27.6%, P < .001) was lower in Guangzhou. A significant correlation between shrimp and HDM/cockroach IgE was found in Shaoguan children. The proportions of positive IgE to tropomyosin (Pen a 1, Der p 10) were lower than 7.4% in both areas. Cockroach allergen has a significantly higher inhibition rate of binding to IgE to house dust mite allergens in Shaoguan sera.

CONCLUSION

Shrimp is a common allergic food in southern China. Higher proportion of shrimp sensitization in rural subjects could be explained by cross-reactivity to cockroach. Tropomyosin was not a major allergen responding to the cross-reactivity.

4-Phenylpyrimidine monolayer protection of a copper surface from salt corrosion

4-Phenylpyrimidine (4-PPM) containing N heteroatoms can easily form compact and uniform layers on metallic surfaces. In this work, the protection of a copper surface from corrosion in 3 wt% NaCl by a 4-PPM layer was investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and polarization methods. Under optimum conditions, the inhibition efficiency of a 4-PPM layer for copper corrosion reached 83.2%. Raman analysis in conjunction with calculations using density functional theory (DFT) based on the B3LYP/LANL2DZ basis set suggested that the 4-PPM molecule anchored on the copper surface via the N₁ atom to construct a uniform layer.

The efficiency of a 4-phenylpyrimidine monolayer optimally self-assembled on a copper surface against corrosion by a 3 wt% NaCl solution could reach 83.2%.

Immunomodulatory effects of T helper 17 cells and regulatory T cells on cerebral ischemia

The aim of the present study was to analyze the relationship between cerebral ischemia and immune effects. A total of 70 Kunming mice were randomly divided into two groups: a model group (60 mice) and a sham group (10 mice). The model group was divided into six subgroups (10 mice per group) which were categorized according to the following time periods of treatment: 6 h, 12 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h and 5 days. The temporary middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) mouse model was established using intracavitary suture. The degree of brain injury was evaluated by detecting the neurological deficit score (NDS). Following cerebral ischemia reperfusion, the edema of the brain tissue was aggravated, and the infarction area was increased. At 48 h, the volume of the cerebral infarction reached a peak (44.4±3.2%) and then it decreased. The NDS score gradually decreased, and the nerve function was gradually restored. At 6 h, the NDS score was 4.6±0.55, whereas at the 5 d time point, it was significantly decreased (P less than 0.05) to 2.2±0.45. Flow cytometry analysis indicated that the percentage of Th17 cells increased gradually following ischemia. At 24 h, the percentage of Th17 cells reached its maximum value (0.70±0.10%) compared with the sham and the 5 d groups (P less than 0.05). At 24 h, the percentage of Th17 cells reached the lowest value (0.9±0.29%), whereas at the 5 d time point it increased significantly (3.2±0.49%) compared with the normal level (P less than 0.05). The secretion of Th17 and Treg-associated cytokines was consistent with the number of Th17 and Treg cells following ischemia. However, the levels of IL-17A in the brain tissues and the serum indicated a tendency to increase following the prolongation of ischemia. This marker reached the maximum levels on day 5. The IL-17 brain level was 77.9±5.11pg/ml, whereas the serum level was 29.44±3.06pg/ml. The changes in the secretion of the Th17 and Treg-related inflammatory cytokines were consistent with the changes in the cell ratio of Th17 and Treg cells. A significant correlation was noted between the two groups and the degree of ischemic brain injury. The results suggested that the functional status of Th17/Treg cells was imbalanced following cerebral ischemia.

Cryoneurolysis to treat the pain and symptoms of knee osteoarthritis: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the efficacy and safety/tolerability of cryoneurolysis for reduction of pain and symptoms associated with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

DESIGN

Randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled, multicenter trial with a 6-month follow-up in patients with mild-to-moderate knee OA. Patients were randomized 2:1 to cryoneurolysis targeting the infrapatellar branch of the saphenous nerve (IPBSN) or sham treatment. The primary endpoint was the change from baseline to Day 30 in the Western Ontario and McMaster Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) pain score adjusted by the baseline score and site. Secondary endpoints, including visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score and total WOMAC score, were tested in a pre-defined order.

RESULTS

The intent-to-treat (ITT) population consisted of 180 patients (n = 121 active treatment, n = 59 sham treatment). Compared to the sham group, patients who received active treatment had a statistically significant greater change from baseline in the WOMAC pain subscale score at Day 30 (P = 0.0004), Day 60 (P = 0.0176), and Day 90 (P = 0.0061). Patients deemed WOMAC pain responders at Day 120 continued to experience a statistically significant treatment effect at Day 150. Most expected side effects were mild in severity and resolved within 30 days. The incidence of device- or procedure-related adverse events was similar in the two treatment groups with no occurrence of serious or unanticipated adverse device effects (ADE).

CONCLUSIONS

Cryoneurolysis of the IPBSN resulted in statistically significant decreased knee pain and improved symptoms compared to sham treatment for up to 150 days, and appeared safe and well tolerated.

[The clinical characteristics of adult hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis treated with haploidentical donor hematopoietic stem cell transplantation]

Objective: To analyze the clinical characteristics of adult patients with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) receiving haploidentical donor hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HID HSCT). Method: We retrospectively reviewed 20 adult patients with HLH from August 2009 to August 2014.The clinical features and outcome were analyzed. Results: Conditioning regimens consisted of total body irradiation/etoposide/cyclophosphamide (TBI/VP-16/CTX) and busulfan (Bu)/VP-16/CTX in HLH with anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) 8 mg/kg.The stem cells were mobilized from donors' peripheral blood.Median time to white blood cell engraftment was 13 (9-27) days.Median time to platelet engraftment was 14 (10-28) days.Mixed chimerism after transplantation developed in 4 patients and no patient presented graft failure.Eight patients developed grade Ⅱ to Ⅲ acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), while as chronic GVHD occurred in 9 patients.Among 12 patients with EB virus(EBV) reactivation, 2 patients developed post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD), 7 were suspected as PTLD and 3 were considered as relapse of primary disease.With a median follow-up of 20 months (range: 0.5-108 months) after transplantation, the estimated 2-year overall survival (OS) rate was (60.0±11.0)% in all patients.During the follow-up, 12 patients survived, 8 died including 5 within 100 days after HSCT.Among 5 non-remission patients before HSCT, 4 patients died within 100 days after HCT. Conclusions: HID HSCT is an effective treatment for adult patients with HLH to achieve remission and long-term survival. High proportion of mixed chimerism has been seen at early stage after transplantation.EBV reactivation and early transplant-related mortality are common.

Downregulation of long non-coding RNA LINC01133 is predictive of poor prognosis in colorectal cancer patients

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate long non-coding RNA LINC01133 (LINC01133) expressions in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients, and discuss its correlation with CRC clinicopathological features and prognosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

qRT-PCR was performed to measure expression levels of LINC01133 in CRC tissues. The chi-square test was used to assess LINC01133 expression with respect to clinicopathological parameters. Kaplan-Meier analysis and the log-rank test were performed to identify survival differences in CRC patients. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed using the Cox proportional hazard analysis.

RESULTS

LINC01133 was significantly down-regulated in CRC tissues compared to normal tissue samples (p < 0.001), and a low expression of LINC01133 was found to be significantly associated with lymph node metastasis (p = 0.004), distant metastasis (p = 0.043), N classification (p = 0.022) and TNM stage (p = 0.011). Moreover, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that high LINC01133 expression predicted significantly better overall survival (p = 0.0093). Finally, multivariate analysis results indicated that LINC01133 was an independent prognostic factor in CRC.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicated that reduced LINC01133 expression contributed to CRC metastasis and poor prognosis. Thus, LINC01133 might serve as a promising biomarker for prognosis of CRC.