The significance of resection margins on R0 results in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is the second most common primary liver cancer after hepatocellular carcinoma with an increasing incidence worldwide. Surgical resection is still the only potential cure, and survival rates are dismal due to disease relapse after resection and/or metastatic disease. Positive resection margins are associated with recurrence, with conflicting studies regarding the benefits of wide resection margins to reduce recurrence rates.

METHODS

126 patients with an R0 resection treated with hepatic surgery for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma at the Surgical Department at the Medical University Centre Essen, Germany were identified in a database and retrospectively analysed. Patients were grouped into three groups according to margin width, <1 mm (very narrow margin width) 1-5 mm (narrow margin width) and >5 mm (wide margin width). Epidemiological as well as perioperative data was analysed, and a univariate analysis as well as Kaplan-Meier plots carried out to investigate recurrence-free and overall survival.

RESULTS

Wider resection margins did not lead to better recurrence-free survival. A wider resection margin >5 mm was not significantly associated with improved overall survival. Positive lymph nodes (HR 2.50, 95% CI 1.11-5.61, p=0.027) and non-anatomic resections (HR 2.06, 95% CI 1.13-3.75, p=0.019) are significantly associated with poorer overall survival. Regarding recurrence-free survival, V2 vascular invasion was the only risk factor statistically significantly associated with poorer recurrence-free survival (HR 8.83, 95% CI 0.85-2.83, p=0.005).

CONCLUSION

Resection margins did not have a significant impact on disease free survival or overall survival following hepatic resection for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Non-anatomical resections, lymph node and vascular invasion all significantly impacted oncological outcomes.

Comparative Evaluation of Specific Antibody against Mycobacterium tuberculosis ESAT-6 Recombinant Antigen in Healthy Subject with Positive and Negative Skin Test

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis). The laboratory diagnosis of the disease includes various bacteriologic and immunologic methods. Despite the effectiveness of many of these methods in diagnosing active TB, their high cost and time-consuming nature have led researchers to adopt more accurate and rapid screening methods based on specific antigens for M. tuberculosis. The present study aimed to measure specific antibody serum levels against the early secretory antigenic target 6 kDa (ESAT-6) recombinant protein in healthy people and compare it to TB patients. The target population included 27 TB patients and 87 healthy individuals with no clinical TB symptoms. The healthy population was divided into two groups, including positive purified protein derivative (PPD) and negative PPD (35 and 52 people, respectively), using the Tuberculin skin test. The specific antibody level against the ESAT-6 recombinant antigen and the PPD protein was measured using an indirect Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) test. The results of the study showed that the majority of the healthy population with no symptoms of clinical TB and having negative skin test results did not have antibodies against the recombinant ESAT-6 (98%) and PPD (96%) antigens. On the other hand, there was a high level of the specific antibody of the ESAT-6 recombinant and PPD antigens in TB patients (77%). It is notable that in people with positive skin test results, the level of the antibody against the ESAT-6 recombinant antigen and PPD antigen was 94%. The results demonstrated that the ELISA method based on the measurement of antibodies against the ESAT-6 recombinant antigen can be a proper diagnostic method for rapid and accurate screening of healthy from infected people.

Characterization of Escherichia coli isolated from urinary tract infection and association between virulence expression and antimicrobial susceptibility

BACKGROUND

The capacity of antibiotics to modulate bacterial virulence has raised concerns over the appropriateness of antibiotic therapies, including when dosing strategies fall below sub-therapeutic levels. In this work, we investigated the ability of antibiotics to influence virulence in Escherichia coli isolated from urinary tract infection (UTI).

RESULTS

Out of 120 isolates, 32.5% carried pap, 21.7% carried hlyA, and 17.5% carried cnf. The predominant B2 phylogroup was significantly associated with the quinolone-resistant isolates. A significant association was seen between the presence of hlyA hemolysin and susceptibility to ceftriaxone and ciprofloxacin (P < 0.05). Sub-inhibitory concentrations of both antibiotics reduced the levels of hlyA expression and hemolysis in isolates treated with antibiotics compared to untreated isolates (P < 0.05). Growth rate assay showed that the decrease in hlyA expression was not an effect of decreased growth rate.

CONCLUSION

Our study indicated the inhibitory effect of ciprofloxacin and ceftriaxone on the level of hemolysis, suggesting that the sub-inhibitory concentrations of these antibiotics may affect the outcome of infections. Further studies, including animal models may elucidate the outcome of virulence modulation by these antibiotics in UTI pathogenesis.

The prevalence of hepatitis C and hepatitis B in lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender populations: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives

This study aimed to systematically review the literature on the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections in transgender and LGBT people and determine their pooled estimates worldwide.

Methods

Databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, Ovid, Cochrane, PsycInfo) were searched from April 2000 to July 2021. The analyses were executed using the random-effects model in Stata 16.

Results

Ten studies, including eight studies on four transgender people and two studies on 2150 LGBTs, were included. The pooled prevalence of HCV and HBV in all transgender populations globally were 9% (95% CI 3–15%) and 11% (95% CI 2–20%), respectively. The corresponding prevalence in male-to-female transgender people were estimated as 5% (95% CI 1–9%) and 6% (95% CI 3–10%), respectively. These estimates in American transgenders were 10% (95% CI 5–25%) and 16% (95% CI 8–23%), respectively.

Conclusion

This study was identified the overall prevalence of HBV and HCV infections in transgender people, which were higher than those in the general population.

CORAL: Monte Carlo based global QSAR modelling of Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors using hybrid descriptors

Global QSAR modelling was performed to predict the pIC₅₀ values of 233 diverse heterocyclic compounds as BTK inhibitors with the Monte Carlo algorithm of CORAL software using the DCW hybrid descriptors extracted from SMILES notations of molecules. The dataset of 233 BTK inhibitors was randomly split into training, invisible training, calibration and validation sets. The index of ideality of correlation was also applied to build and judge the predictability of the QSAR models. Eight global QSAR models based on the hybrid optimal descriptor using two target functions, i.e. TF₁ (W_IIC = 0) and TF₂ (W_IIC = 0.2) have been constructed. The statistical parameters of QSAR models computed by TF₂ are more reliable and robust and were used to predict the pIC₅₀ values. The model constructed for split 4 via TF₂ is regarded as the best model and the numerical values of r²_Train, r²_Valid, Q²_Train and Q²_Valid are equal to 0.7981, 0.7429, 0.7898 and 0.6784, respectively. By internal and external validation techniques, the predictability and reliability of the designed models have been assessed. The structural attributes responsible for the increase and decrease of pIC₅₀ of BTK inhibitors were also identified.

Electrochemical distinction of neuronal and neuroblastoma cells via the phosphorylation of the cellular extracellular membrane

In this contribution we establish a proof of concept method for monitoring, quantifying and differentiating the extracellular phosphorylation of Human SHSY5Y undifferentiated neuronal cells and neuroblastoma cells by three prominent ectokinases PKA, PKC and Src. Herein it is demonstrated that a combination of different experimental techniques, including fluroesence microscopy, quartz crystal microscopy (QCM) and electrochemistry, can be used to detect extracellular phosphorylation levels of neuronal and neuroblastoma cells. Phosphorylation profiles of the three ectokinases, PKA, PKC and Src, were investigated using fluorescence microscopy and the number of phosphorylation sites per kinase was estimated using QCM. Finally, the phosphorylation of the extracellular membrane was determined using electrochemistry. Our results clearly demonstrate that the extracellular phosphorylation of neuronal cells differs significantly in terms of its phosphorylation profile from diseased neuroblastoma cells and the strength of surface electrochemical techniques in the differentiation process. We reveal that using electrochemistry, the percent compositions of neuronal and neuroblastoma cells can also be identified.

PREX2 gene's expression in gastric antral epithelial cells of patients with H. pylori infection

BACKGROUND

The Prex2 protein is a member of the Rac family proteins that belongs to small G proteins with a critical role in cell migration, cell proliferation, and apoptosis through its effects on PI3K cell signaling pathway and phosphatase activity of PTEN protein. The effect of PREX2 gene expression has been shown in some cancer cells. A survey of PREX2 gene expression in gastric antral epithelial cells of gastric cancer patients with Helicobacter pylori various genotypes infection can conduct to better understanding H. pylori infection's carcinogenesis.

METHODS

In a case-control study, PREX2 gene expression was evaluated in gastric antral biopsy samples on four groups of patients referred to Sanandaj hospitals, including gastritis with (n=23) and without (n=27) H. pylori infection and gastric cancer with (n=21) and without (n=32) H. pylori infection. Each gastric biopsy sample's total RNA was extracted and cDNA synthesized by using Kits (Takara Company). The PREX2 gene expression was measured using the relative quantitative real-time RT-PCR method and ΔΔCt formula.

RESULTS

The PREX2 gene expression increased in gastric antral biopsy samples of gastritis and gastric cancer patients with H. pylori infection (case groups) than patients without H. pylori infection (control groups) 2.38 and 2.27 times, respectively. The patients with H. pylori vacA s1m1 and sabB genotypes infection showed a significant increase of PREX2 gene expression in gastric cancer antral epithelial cells.

CONCLUSION

H. pylori vacA s1m1 and sabB genotypes have the positive correlations with PREX2 gene expression in gastric antral epithelial cells of gastritis and gastric cancer patients.

Persistence assessment of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG antibody in recovered COVID-19 individuals and its association with clinical symptoms and disease severity: A prospective longitudinal cohort study

Background

Antibodies play an important role in neutralizing invading pathogens and protecting the host against re-infection. Thus, the accurate assessment of antibodies during a pandemic can provide important evidence for monitoring pathogen exposure, understanding the role of antibodies in protective immunity, and helping vaccine development.

Methods

In this study, 96 west Iranian recovered COVID-19 subjects were recruited and, based on clinical symptoms and disease severity, categorized into three different groups: mild, moderate, and severe. In addition, the presence and dynamic change of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG antibody three, four-, and six months post symptom onset (PSO) were measured. Also, the association between IgG antibody titer with clinical symptoms and disease severity was examined.

Results

Although in real-time RT-PCR-positive samples negative IgG antibody results were found, most subjects mount humoral immune responses that could raise a robust SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG antibody. Furthermore, this antibody persisted in the serum of most recovered COVID-19 subjects at least six months PSO and demonstrated little to no decrease. Also, specific IgG antibody titer was strongly correlated with clinical symptoms and disease severity.

Conclusions

These results provide an insight into the presence and persistence of the SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG antibody. Although serological tests could not be used as the primary diagnostic test, they may support real-time RT-PCR results. Also, they could be used for diagnosing COVID-19 subjects tested later outside of the optimal period. Thus, the SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG antibody is an excellent marker of COVID-19 infection or vaccination and provides an additional diagnostic tool for verifying results and helps monitor and control COVID-19 spread.

The index of ideality of correlation: QSAR studies of hepatitis C virus NS3/4A protease inhibitors using SMILES descriptors

Robust and reliable QSAR models were developed to predict half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) values of hepatitis C virus NS3/4A protease inhibitors from the Monte Carlo technique. 524 HCV NS3/4A protease inhibitors were extracted from the scientific literature to create a reasonably large set. The models were developed using CORAL software by using two target functions namely target function 1 (TF1) without applying the index of ideality of correlation (IIC) and target function 2 (TF2) that uses IIC. The constructed models based on TF2 were statistically more significant and robust than the models based on TF1. The determination coefficients (r²) of training and test sets were 0.86 and 0.88 for the best split based on TF2. The promoters of the increase/decrease of activity were also extracted and interpreted in detail. The model interpretation results explain the role of different structural attributes in predicting the pIC₅₀ values of hepatitis C virus NS3/4A protease inhibitors. Based on the mechanistic model interpretation results, eight new compounds were designed and their pIC₅₀ values were predicted based on the average prediction of ten models.

A Monte Carlo method based QSPR model for prediction of reaction rate constants of hydrated electrons with organic contaminants

The Monte Carlo algorithm was applied to formulate a robust quantitative structure-property relationship (QSPR) model to compute the reactions rate constants of hydrated electron values for a data set of 309 water contaminants containing 125 aliphatic and 184 phenyl-based chemicals. The QSPR models were computed with the hybrid optimal descriptors which were procured by combining the SMILES and hydrogen-suppressed molecular graph for both classes of compounds. Approximately 75% of the total experimental data set was randomly divided into training and invisible training sets, while approximately 25% was divided into calibration and validation sets. The authenticity and robustness of the developed QSPR models were also judged by the Index of Ideality of Correlation. In QSPR modelling of aliphatic compounds, the numerical values of r T r a i n i n g 2 , r V a l i d a t i o n 2 , Q T r a i n i n g 2 and Q V a l i d a t i o n 2 were in the range of 0.852-0.905, 0.815-0.894, 0.839-0.897 and 0.737-0.867, respectively. Whereas, in the QSPR modelling of phenyl-based compounds, the numerical values of r T r a i n i n g 2 , r V a l i d a t i o n 2 , Q T r a i n i n g 2 and Q V a l i d a t i o n 2 were in the range of 0.867-0.896, 0.852-0.865, 0.816-0.850 and 0.760-0.762, respectively. The structural attributes, which are promoters of l o g K e a q - increase/decrease are also extracted from the SMILES notation for mechanistic interpretation. These QSPR models can also be applied to compute the reaction rate constants of organic contaminants.

A Comparative Study on Deoxynivalenol Mycotoxin Level in Wheat Flour and Bread Samples

Background: Deoxynivalenol (DON) is one of the most common mycotoxins found in cereal products. Objective: The purpose of this study is to compare the DON contamination level in raw wheat flour and bread. Methods: In this analytical study with cross-sectional design, a total of 44 wheat flour and bread samples (Lavash flour and bread, and Barbari flour and bread) were collected. The DON level was measured using ELISA method. Collected data were analyzed in SPSS software by using ANOVA and t-test considering a significance level of P≥0.05. Findings: The Mean±SD total DON level in the flour and bread samples was 0.03±0.04 and 0.12±0.21 µg/kg. The mean DON level in the Lavash and Barbari flour samples was 0.01±0.02 and 0.01±0.01 µg/kg, and in the Lavash and Barbari bread samples as 0.04±0.03 and 0.16±0.27 µg/kg, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the DON levels between flour and bread samples (P≥0.05). Conclusion: The presence of DON in the studied samples was observed, but its contamination level was lower than the permissible limit.

QSAR modelling of larvicidal phytocompounds against Aedes aegypti using index of ideality of correlation

Aedes aegypti is the primary vector of several infectious viruses that cause yellow, dengue, chikungunya, and Zika fevers. Recently, plant-derived products have been tested as safe and eco-friendly larvicides against Ae. aegypti. The present study aimed to improve QSAR models for 62 larvicidal phytocompounds against Ae. aegypti via the Monte Carlo method based on the index of the ideality of correlation (IIC) criterion. The representation of structures was done with SMILES. Three splits were prepared randomly and three QSAR models were constructed using IIC target function. The molecular descriptors were selected from SMILES descriptors and the hydrogen-filled molecular graphs. The predictability of three models was evaluated on the validation sets, the r ² of which was 0.9770, 0.8660, and 0.8565 for models 1 to 3, respectively. The statistical results of three randomized splits indicated that robust, simple, predictive, and reliable models were obtained for different sets. From the modelling results, important descriptors were identified to enhance and reduce the larvicidal activity of compounds. Based on the identified important descriptors, some new structures of larvicidal compounds were proposed. The larvicidal activity of novel molecules designed further was supported by docking studies. Using the simple QSAR model, one can predict pLC₅₀ of new similarity larvicidal phytocompounds.

Electrochemical detection of neuronal extracellular phosphorylation by PKA, PKC and Src

The focus of this work described here is to establish a method for monitoring and quantifying the extracellular phosphorylation of Human SHSY5Y undifferentiated neuronal cells by three ectokinases PKA, PKC and Src; these are kinases that are known to be present in the extracellular matrix. Here is demonstrated that a combination of different experimental techniques, including microscopy and electrochemistry, can be used to detect extracellular phosphorylations. Phosphorylation profiles of the three ectokinases, PKA, PKC and Src, were investigated using fluorescence microscopy and the number of phosphorylation sites per kinase was estimated using QCM. Finally, the phosphorylation of the extracellular membrane was determined using electrochemistry. Our results clearly demonstrate the extracellular phosphorylation of neuronal cells and the strength of surface electrochemical techniques in the investigation of cellular phosphorylation.

Biomedical soft robots: current status and perspective

This paper reviews the current status of soft robots in biomedical field. Soft robots are made of materials that have comparable modulus of elasticity to that of biological systems. Several advantages of soft robots over rigid robots are safe human interaction, ease of adaptation with wearable electronics and simpler gripping. We review design factors of soft robots including modeling, controls, actuation, fabrication and application, as well as their limitations and future work. For modeling, we survey kinematic, multibody and numerical finite element methods. Finite element methods are better suited for the analysis of soft robots, since they can accurately model nonlinearities in geometry and materials. However, their real-time integration with controls is challenging. We categorize the controls of soft robots as model-based and model-free. Model-free controllers do not rely on an explicit analytical or numerical model of the soft robot to perform actuation. Actuation is the ability to exert a force using actuators such as shape memory alloys, fluid gels, elastomers and piezoelectrics. Nonlinear geometry and materials of soft robots restrict using conventional rigid body controls. The fabrication techniques used for soft robots differ significantly from that of rigid robots. We survey a wide range of techniques used for fabrication of soft robots from simple molding to more advanced additive manufacturing methods such as 3D printing. We discuss the applications and limitations of biomedical soft robots covering aspects such as functionality, ease of use and cost. The paper concludes with the future discoveries in the emerging field of soft robots.

Low channel count montages using sensor tying for VEP-based BCI

OBJECTIVE

Brain computer interfaces (BCIs) are slowly making their appearance on the consumer market, accompanied by a higher popularity among the general public. This new group of users requires easy-to-use headsets with robustness to non-precise placement. In this paper, an optimized fixed montage EEG headset for VEP BCIs is proposed.

APPROACH

The proposed layout covers only the most relevant area with large sensors to account for slight misplacement. To obtain large sensors, without having them physically available, we tie multiple sensors together and simulate the effect by averaging the signal of multiple sensors.

MAIN RESULTS

In simulations based on recorded 256-channel EEG data, it is shown that a circular center-surround configuration with sensor tying, leading to only eight channels covering a large part of the occipital lobe, can provide high performance and good robustness to misplacement. Automatically optimized layouts were unable to achieve better performance, demonstrating the utility of this manual design. Finally, the performance and benefits of sensor tying in the manual design are then validated in a physical experiment.

SIGNIFICANCE

The resulting proposed layout fulfills most requirements of an easy to use consumer EEG headset.

Prediction of the adsorption coefficients of some aromatic compounds on multi-wall carbon nanotubes by the Monte Carlo method

In this investigation, quantitative structure-property relationship (QSPR) modelling of adsorption coefficients of 69 aromatic compounds on multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) was studied using the Monte Carlo method. QSPR models were calculated with CORAL software, and optimal descriptors were calculated with the simplified molecular input line entry system (SMILES) and hydrogen-suppressed molecular graphs (HSGs). The aromatic compound data set was randomly split into training, invisible training, calibration and validation sets. Analysis of three probes of the Monte Carlo optimization with three random splits was done. The results from three random splits displayed robust, very simple, predictable and reliable models for the training, invisible training, calibration and validation sets with a coefficient of determination (r²) equal to 0.9463-0.8528, 0.9020-0.8324, 0.9606-0.9178 and 0.9573-0.8228, respectively. As a result, the models obtained help to identify the hybrid descriptors for the increase and the decrease of the adsorption coefficient of aromatic compounds on MWCNTs. This simple QSPR model can be used for the prediction of the adsorption coefficient of numerous aromatic compounds on MWCNTs.

Plasma concentrations of alpha-1-acid glycoprotein in preterm and term newborns: influence of mode of delivery and implications for plasma protein binding of local anaesthetics

BACKGROUND

Alpha-1-acid glycoprotein (AAGP) is an acute-phase protein with high affinity for amide local anaesthetics (LAs), and a major determinant of free and potentially toxic concentrations of LAs in plasma. Neonates are known to have lower plasma concentrations of AAGP than adults, and are at risk of developing high free concentrations of LAs. Data regarding AAGP in newborns are so far sparse. The aim of this study was to determine plasma concentrations of AAGP after delivery of preterm and term infants, and to investigate correlations between AAGP and gestational age, birth weight, gender, and mode of delivery.

METHODS

In this prospective observational study, blood was sampled from umbilical cords of 70 newborn infants born at gestational weeks 27-42 immediately after delivery. Blood samples were subsequently analysed for AAGP plasma concentrations with an immunoturbidimetric assay.

RESULTS

We found higher concentrations of AAGP in infants born vaginally compared with those who were delivered by elective Caesarean section [median (inter-quartile range) 0.189 g litre^-1 (0.142-0.263 g litre^-1) vs 0.110 g litre^-1 (0.094-0.157 g litre^-1; P=0.0003)], respectively. There was a correlation between gestational age and AAGP concentrations (r=0.50; P=0.011), with significantly higher concentrations in the more mature infants. Gender and birth weight did not appear to influence the plasma concentrations of AAGP.

CONCLUSIONS

Alpha-1-acid glycoprotein concentrations in newborns are influenced both by gestational age and mode of delivery. Thus, when dosing local anaesthetics in a parturient, these factors should be taken into account.

A rapid magnetization preparation for MRI measurements of sprays

The process of spray atomization, i.e., the transformation of a continuous liquid jet into μm-sub-mm sized droplets, is ubiquitous in industry yet quite complex to analyze theoretically and study experimentally. One of the main strengths of MRI is its ability to sensitize spatially-resolved NMR signal to a wide variety of physical and chemical parameters. However, standard preparation schemes are difficult to employ for studies of sprays due to sprays' fast speeds (>10-20m/s). In addition, sprays are usually low-density systems, leading to a poor SNR and a need for massive signal averaging and long acquisition time. In this paper, we reduced the interval between the preparation and the readout stages by performing SPI encoding on the rising gradients. This also enabled the use of 90-degree flip angles to maximize the spray signal and saturate the stationary water signal while avoiding unwanted slice-selection. The use of gradients during preparation stage was eliminated due to their time-consuming rise and stabilization times limiting possible preparation schemes to a combination of RF pulses and delays. The two preparation schemes presented here are Time-of-Flight (TOF) and T1ρ-weighting schemes. The total duration of the sequence (without TR) was 240-1100μs for the TOF and 410μs for T1ρ. The T1ρ prepared images of the near-atomization region (11 spin-locking frequencies, 0-15kHz) showed a strong signal attenuation at higher frequencies. In series of TOF images the clearly noticeable displacement of the liquid parcel can be utilized to measure spray speeds.

Serum levels of adiponectin and leptin in asthmatic patients and its relation with asthma severity, lung function and BMI

INTRODUCTION

Asthma is one of the diseases which has a high prevalence in developed and developing countries. The relationship between asthma and obesity has always been focused by researchers. In this field, adipokines, especially adiponectin and leptin have highly attended by the scientist. The aim of this study was to determine the serum level of adiponectin, leptin and the leptin/adiponectin ratio in asthmatic patients and its relationship with disease severity, lung function and BMI (body mass index).

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 90 asthmatic women admitted to the tertiary referral hospital in Kurdistan province - Iran, were examined. First, BMI was measured and then pulmonary function tests were performed in all asthmatics patient. Forced expiratory volume in 1s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), and FEV1/FVC, were measured. At the end, blood samples were collected and serum level of adiponectin and leptin were measured by ELISA method.

RESULT

Serum leptin and leptin/adiponectin levels correlated positively with asthma severity and BMI (p=0.0001), but there was no correlation between adiponectin level with asthma severity and BMI (p>0.05), also serum leptin and leptin/adiponectin levels inversely correlated with FEV1 and FVC in patient (p=0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Asthma is linked with obesity, and there is an association between asthma severity and BMI with serum leptin and leptin/adiponectin levels, but our results do not support a significant role of adiponectin in obesity or asthma.

Locked nucleic acid inhibits miR-92a-3p in human colorectal cancer, induces apoptosis and inhibits cell proliferation

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a type of small noncoding RNAs that have a vital role in basic biological processes such as cellular growth, division and apoptosis. A change in the expression of miRNAs can induce many diseases. Recently, the role of miRNA in some of the cancers as a tumor suppressor and oncogene has been recognized. Several studies have proved that miR-92a-3p acts as an oncogene in colorectal cancer (CRC). We studied CRC by inhibiting miR-92a-3p in SW48 cells (human colorectal cancer cell line) that were transfected with locked nucleic acid (LNA). At different times, the expression level of miR-92a-3p, cell vitality, apoptosis and necrosis were studied by qRT-PCR, MTT, Annexin-V and propidiumiodide. Our results showed that the expression of miR-92a-3p and proliferation of SW48 cells were decreased, and also a high percentage of SW48 cells were exposed to apoptosis and necrosis (P⩽0.005). Our study showed that the inhibition of miR-92a-3p with LNA inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis and necrosis in CRC.

T regulatory markers expression in unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate expression of glucocorticoid-induced tumor necrosis factor receptor (GITR), cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4) and IL-10 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of 20 women with unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (URSA) compared to 20 normal non-pregnant women (NNP) during luteal phase in the window of implantation.

METHODS

Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was performed using the Taqman method for expression of GITR and SYBR Green method for expression of CTLA-4 and IL-10.

RESULTS

Expression of CTLA-4 in the NNPs (median; interquartile range; 3; 1.8-10) was significantly higher than the URSAs (0.72; 0.26-3.81, p = 0.015). Expression of GITR in the NNPs (53; 10-139) was significantly higher than the URSAs (6; 3-27, p = 0.005). However, IL-10 expression in the URSAs was significantly higher than the NNPs, did not meet a significant value. A significant correlation was found between CTLA-4 and GITR expression in the study population (p = 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Expression of CTLA-4 and GITR were significantly down-regulated in the URSAs compared to NNPs at the window of implantation, which shows the essential role of Treg cells in creating an immunological privileged site for fetus as an allograft at the maternal-fetal interface by high expression levels of CTLA-4 and GITR during a normal pregnancy.

Comparison of postoperative short-term complications after laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) versus Lichtenstein tension free inguinal hernia repair: a randomized trial study

AIM

The aim of this randomized trial was to compare short-term postoperative complications of laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) and Lichtenstein tension free hernia repair.

METHODS

A total of 120 patients who went inguinal hernia repair at Shahid Sadoughi university training hospital from April 2011 to August 2013 were randomized into two TAPP (N.=60) and Lichtenstein (N.=60) repair group. Follow-up occurred within 6 weeks. The postoperative assessments included pain score (VAS), hematoma/seroma, urinary retention, wound infection incidence, and duration of hospital stay.

RESULTS

Pain was the most common symptoms in both groups. The TAPP group patients significantly had experienced less postoperative pain than the Lichtenstein group in all moments (P<0.05). TAPP group had lower incidence of hematoma (TAPP, 6.6% vs. Lichtenstein 13.3%; P=0.67), seroma (TAPP 10% vs. Lichtenstein 13.3%; P=1.00), and infection (TAPP 0 vs. Lichtenstein 1.6%; P=0.67). However, no differences between the 2 groups were found in terms of postoperative complications. In TAPP group mean of hospital stay significantly was less than Lichtenstein group (TAPP, 8.13±2.19 vs. Lichtenstein, 13.15±1.5 days; P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

The laparoscopic TAPP repair is safer and less complicated approach to inguinal hernia repair. The two main short-term advantages of the laparoscopic TAPP repair with the tension free Lichtenstein repair were less postoperative pain and earlier return to the normal life activities. No difference was seen in overall complications.

Resting energy expenditure may predict the relationship between obesity and susceptibility to depression disorders

AIM

The aim of the current research was to investigate the association between depressed mood and resting energy expenditure (REE) in a representative sample of obese women.

METHODS

Fasting blood sample was collected from 254 obese women to determine biochemical indicators. Body composition was measured using body composition analyzer. REE was measured by means of indirect calorimetry.

RESULTS

Comparison between depressed group and healthy obese women demonstrated that the mean of body mass index, fat percent, fat mass, visceral fat and triglyceride were higher in women with depressed mood.

CONCLUSION

The level of REE/kg was significantly low in depressed obese women compared to healthy subjects.

Aerobic training in children with cerebral palsy

Rehabilitation is a major goal for children with cerebral palsy, although the potential to enhance cardio-respiratory fitness in such individuals remains unclear. This study thus compared current cardio-respiratory status between children with cerebral palsy and able-bodied children, and examined the ability to enhance the cardio-respiratory fitness of children with cerebral palsy by cycle ergometer training. 10 children with cerebral palsy (Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I and II) participated in thrice-weekly 30 min cycle ergometer training sessions for 8 weeks (mean age: 14.2±1.9 yrs). 10 additional subjects with cerebral palsy (mean age: 14.2±1.8 yrs) and 10 able-bodied subjects (mean age: 14.1±2.1 yrs) served as controls, undertaking no training. All subjects undertook a progressive cycle ergometer test of cardio-respiratory fitness at the beginning and end of the 8-week period. Cardio-respiratory parameters [oxygen intake V˙O2), ventilation V ˙ E) and heart rate (HR)] during testing were measured by Cosmed K4 b gas analyzer. The children with cerebral palsy who engaged in aerobic training improved their peak oxygen consumption, heart rate and ventilation significantly (p<0.05) and they also showed a non-significant trend to increased peak power output. In conclusion, children with cerebral palsy can benefit significantly from cardio-respiratory training, and such training should be included in rehabilitation programs.

Vitamin D receptor FokI genotype may modify the susceptibility to schizophrenia and bipolar mood disorder by regulation of dopamine D1 receptor gene expression

AIM

This study is designed to test association of FOKI polymorphism in Vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene and its potential effect on expression of dopamine D1 receptor in schizophrenia and bipolar mood disorder as well as in healthy individuals.

METHODS

In this case-control study 196 patient with schizophrenia, 119 patients with bipolar mood disorder and 192 healthy individuals as the control group were recruited. All psychiatric disorders were diagnosed according to DSM IV criteria. Healthy control group denied any family history of such disorders. FOKI was genotyped by means of PCR-RFLP method. The mRNA was extracted from the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and the cDNA was synthesized.

RESULTS

Frequency of ff genotype was more common in patients with bipolar disorders compared to the healthy control group (Odds ratio=1.84, 95% CI; 0.81 to 4.17) with increased relative risk (Relative risk=1.31, CI 95%; 0.86 to 1.99). There were significant differences between relative expressions of dopamine D1 receptor gene in various genotypes. Our results indicated that the ff genotype was associated with lower expression of dopamine D1 receptor gene.

CONCLUSION

VDR as a nuclear receptor may contribute to bipolar disorders via modification of the expression of the neurotransmitters receptor such as dopamine.

Potential role of OPG/RANKL system and FokI genotypes in pathogenesis and clinical manifestations in multiple sclerosis

AIM

The OPG/RANKL has identified role in immune system via T-cell-activating cytokines. Considering that immune mechanisms play a key role in the pathogenesis of MS, OPG/RANKL might be importance in the underlying mechanism of the disease. The aim of this study is to measure plasma levels of OPG and RANKL as well as to analyze VDR FokI polymorphism (rs2228570) in MS patients and healthy individuals to detect any potential correlation.

METHODS

We included a total of 397 participants, 105 of them suffering from two different types of MS, namely relapsing and remitting and secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. VDR genotyping was performed using PCR-RFLP method.

RESULTS

The results showed differences in the plasma levels of OPG and RANKL between patients and the healthy control group that were statistically significant. We found higher plasma levels of OPG and lower RANKL concentrations in RRMS patients in comparison with SPMS types of the disease. We detected higher plasma levels of OPG and lower levels of RANKL in subjects with F allele compared to those with f allele in healthy subjects. However, contradicting results were observed when patients with MS were analyzed. We detected lower plasma levels of OPG and higher RANKL concentrations in patients with F allele in comparison with those with f allele.

CONCLUSION

This might define a role for FokI polymorphism and OPG/RANKL system in the pathogenesis and progression of multiple sclerosis with further practical applications.

Effect of Schlafen 2 on natural killer and T cell development from common T/natural killer progenitors

Natural Killer (NK) cells are thought to develop from common lymphoid progenitors in the bone marrow. Even though thymus is not essential for NK cell development, T-cell/natural killer-cell (T/NK) precursors, DN1 (CD44+CD25-) and DN2 (CD44+CD25+) when cultured on an OP9 stroma, give rise to some NK1.1 cells. Genes of the Schlafen (Slfn) family are involved in hematopoietic and immune processes. The contribution of the Slfn genes in NK cell development from Double Negative (DN) cells is unknown. We transduced DN1 and DN2 progenitors prepared from C57BL/6 (B6) mouse thymus with Schlafen 1 (Slfnl) and Schlafen 2 (Slfn2) genes using Mig retroviral vector containing the Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) gene and cultured those transduced progenitors on OP9 and OP9 stroma expressing the Notch ligand Delta-like 1 (OP9-DL 1) with appropriate cytokines to see if they affect generating NK and T-cells differently. Maturation of both NK and T cells from immature T/NK thymocytes hampered by Slfn1 and Slfn2 transduction but we got a small number of Slfn1 and Slfn2 expressing cells upon culture of transduced DN progenitors on stroma cells. There was no difference between Slfn1 expressing (GFP+) and none expressing T cells regarding CD3 expression but all mature NK cells were from Slfn1 negative population. Slfn2 completely blocked maturation of T cells but there was no difference between Slfn2 expressing and none expressing NK cells. Based on our findings both Slfn1 and Slfn2 interfere with maturation of DN2 progenitors but T cell development is more sensitive to Slfn2 expression than NK cell.

Venous thrombosis following intravenous injection of household bleach

Sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) is used extensively as a disinfectant or bleaching agent. Most studies describe ingestion or inhalation route of this product with rare complication and fatalities. Despite global daily exposures, data about bleach injection is limited. Here we report intentional infusion of 20 mL, sodium hypochlorite 5% diluted in 500 mL normal saline 1.5 h prior admission. Clinical manifestation included local pain and edema. There were no laboratory abnormalities in the patient. Doppler sonography revealed thrombosis in superficial (antecubital and basilic) veins. Limb elevation, warm compress, and ibuprofen relived pain and edema after 3 days.

Changes in cardiovascular risk factors and inflammatory markers of young, healthy, men after six weeks of moderate or high intensity resistance training

AIM

The present study was done to see the Influence of moderate and severe intensity resistance exercises on some cardiovascular risk factors.

METHODS

Thirty young healthy male were randomly divided in to two types of intervention [MI: moderate intensity (45-55% 1RM), HI: high intensity (80-90% 1RM)] and one Control (no intervention) groups. Subjects in MI and HI intervention groups underwent 3 supervised resistance-training sessions per week for six weeks. IL-1, IL-6, HS-CRP, fibrinogen, ApoB, ApoA, LDL, HDL, ApoB/ApoA ratio, Lipoprotein Lipase (LPL), TG, cholesterol, cholesterol/HDL ratio, body mass index (BMI), systolic pressure (Ps), diastolic pressure (Pd) and waist/hip ratio (WHR) before and after resistance training period were assessed.

RESULTS

IL-1, IL-6, ApoB, ApoA, LPL, TG levels, ApoB/ApoA ratio, Ps, Pd, WHR, BMI and CPR did not change significantly in trained groups. In post test HS-CRP was significantly lower in trained groups in comparison to control group (P≤0.05). LDL, Cholesterol and cholesterol/HDL ratio decreased significantly in trained groups (P≤0.05). In the HI group plasma level of fibrinogen were decreased while HDL level were increased (P≤0.05).

CONCLUSION

Resistance training for 6 weeks in young healthy males evoked beneficial effects regarding some inflammatory and cardiovascular risk markers. Higher-intensity resistance training was more effective in reducing plasma fibrinogen and increasing plasma HDL levels than moderate resistance training.

High prevalence of HTLV-I infection in Mashhad, Northeast Iran: a population-based seroepidemiology survey

BACKGROUND

Mashhad, in the northeast of Iran has been suggested as an endemic area for human T cell lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I) infection since 1996.

OBJECTIVES

We performed a community-based seroepidemiology study to examine the prevalence and risk factors for HTLV-I infection in the city of Mashhad.

STUDY DESIGN

Between May and September 2009, overall 1678 subjects from all the 12 geographical area of Mashhad were selected randomly by multistage cluster sampling for HTLV antibody. The study population included 763 males and 915 females, with the mean age of 29.1 ± 18.5 years. 1654 serum samples were assessed for HTLV antibody using ELISA and reactive samples were confirmed by Western blot and PCR.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of HTLV-I infection in whole population was 2.12% (95% CI, 1.48-2.93) with no significant difference between males and females (p = 0.093) and the prevalence of HTLV-II seropositivity was 0.12% (95% CI, 0.02-0.44). The HTLV-I Infection was associated with age (p<0.001), marital status (p<0.001), education (p = 0.047), and history of blood transfusion (p = 0.009), surgery (p<0.001), traditional cupping (p = 0.002), and hospitalization (p = 0.004). In logistic regression analysis, age was the only variable that had a significant relation with the infection (p = 0.006, OR = 4.33).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrated that Mashhad still remains an endemic area for HTLV-I infection despite routine blood screening. Thus, further strategies are needed for prevention of the virus transmission in whole population.