Artificial nonenzymatic antioxidant Prussian blue/KGM-BSA nanocomposite hydrogel dressing as ROS scavenging for diabetic wound healing

The process of diabetic wound healing was influenced by the excessive proliferation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Therefore, in the process of healing diabetic wounds, it was crucial to removing ROS. This study designed composited nanoparticles: KBP, consisted by Konjac glucomannan, bovine serum albumin, and Prussian blue. Then they were embedded in Konjac glucomannan and hydroxypropyl trimethylammonium chloride chitosan composite hydrogel (KH), The KBP@KH hydrogel finally achieved excellent efficacy in diabetic wound healing. The in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that KPB nanoparticles exhibited favorable ROS scavenging capability and biosafety. The KBP@KH hydrogel not only effectively eliminated ROS from diabetic wounds, but also exhibited excellent wound adaptability. The KBP@KH hydrogel facilitated angiogenesis and suppressed the production of inflammatory factors. Overall, the KBP@KH hydrogel dressing was characterized by its user-friendly nature, safety, and high efficiency.

[A study on the distribution characteristics of peripheral retinal defocus in children and adolescents]

Objective: To explore the distribution characteristics of peripheral retinal defocus in children and adolescents. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 500 individuals aged 3 to 18 years, who visited the People's Hospital of Lincang, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dali University and Dali Ophthalmology Hospital between January and December 2021. Data of the right eye of each participant was analyzed. There were 226 males (45.20%) and 274 females (54.80%), with an average age of (10.79±3.79) years. All participants underwent post-cycloplegic refraction, optical biometry, and intraocular pressure measurement to obtain spherical equivalent, average corneal curvature, axial length, and intraocular pressure. Multispectral refraction topography was performed to obtain topographic maps and values at various field angles and orientations of peripheral retinal defocus. Based on multispectral refraction topography, peripheral retinal defocus values were categorized as crater type, hemilateral upturn type, saddle type, and relatively flat type. The distribution of different refractive states was analyzed. Results: The spherical equivalent of the 500 participants was(-1.51±2.61) D, axial length was (24.10±1.28) mm, and average corneal curvature was (43.20±1.22) D. Among the 500 eyes, 382 exhibited hyperopic peripheral retinal defocus values, with 316 eyes (82.72%) being myopic. Myopic peripheral retinal defocus values were observed in 118 eyes, with 15 eyes (12.72%) being myopic. Among different types of peripheral retinal defocus values, 112 eyes (22.4%) exhibited a crater type, 153 eyes (30.6%) exhibited a hemilateral upturn type, 107 eyes (21.4%) exhibited a saddle type, and 128 eyes (25.6%) exhibited a flat type. The proportion of myopia was 82.14% (92 eyes), 69.28% (106 eyes), 60.75% (65 eyes), and 3.90% (5 eyes), respectively. The peripheral retinal defocus values at 15°, 30°, and 45° were (0.01±0.08) D, (0.06±0.21) D, and (0.20±0.37) D, respectively. The peripheral retinal defocus values at temporal, inferior, nasal, and superior locations were (0.58±0.69) D, (0.52±0.63) D, (0.21±0.64) D, and (-0.26±0.67) D, respectively. Notably, the superior primarily manifested as myopic, while the others were predominantly hyperopic. Conclusions: Approximately three-fourths of children and adolescents exhibit hyperopic peripheral retinal defocus values, with a higher prevalence of myopia in this subgroup. The hyperopia peripheral retinal defocus value increases with the distance from the retina to the macula. The peripheral retinal defocus values between superior and inferior, nasal and temporal locations are asymmetrical, with the temporal hyperopic peripheral retinal defocus value being most prominent and the superior myopic peripheral retinal defocus value being most evident.

[Evaluation of safety of early enteral nutrition in patients with severe intra-abdominal infection and intestinal fistulas]

Objective: To evaluate the safety of early enteral nutrition (EEN) support in patients with severe intra-abdominal infection and intestinal fistulas. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study. We collected relevant clinical data of 204 patients with severe intra-abdominal infection and intestinal fistulas who had been managed in the No. 1 Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University between 1 January 2017 and 1 January 2020. The patients were allocated to EEN or delayed enteral nutrition (DEN) groups depending on whether enteral nutrition had been instituted within 48 hours of admission to the intensive care unit. The primary outcome was 180-day mortality. Other outcomes included rates of intraperitoneal hemorrhage, septic shock, open abdominal cavity, bloodstream infection, mechanical ventilation, and continuous renal replacement therapy. Risk factors for mortality were analyzed by logistic regression. Results: There were no significant differences in hematological data or other baseline characteristics between the two groups at the time of admission to the intensive care unit (all P>0.05). However, septic shock (31.2% [15/48] vs. 15.4% [24/156], χ2=4.99, P=0.025), continuous renal replacement therapy (27.1% [13/48] versus 9.0% [14/156], χ2=8.96, P=0.003), and 180-day mortality (31.2% [15/48] vs. 7.7% [12/156], χ2=15.75, P<0.001) were significantly more frequent in the EEN than the DEN group (all P<0.05). Multivariate regression analysis showed that older age (OR=1.082, 95%CI:1.027-1.139,P=0.003), worse Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II scores (OR=1.189, 95%CI: 1.037-1.363, P=0.013), higher C-reactive protein (OR=1.013, 95%CI:1.004-1.023, P=0.007) and EEN (OR=8.844, 95%CI:1.809- 43.240, P=0.007) were independent risk factors for death in patients with severe intra-abdominal infection and intestinal fistulas. Conclusion: EEN may lead to adverse events and increase mortality in patients with both enterocutaneous fistulas and severe abdominal infection. EEN should be implemented with caution in such patients.

[Medical nutrition therapy in surgical critical ill patients with gastrointestinal dysfunction: challenges and strategies]

Gastrointestinal dysfunction(GID) is frequently seen in critically ill patients and is associated with worse clinical outcomes. Medical nutrition therapy (MNT) is an integral part of critical care, which may be associated with improved clinical outcomes. The international practical guidelines or consensus for critically ill patients were recommended based on the results of previous investigations. However, the rationale of these recommendations was controversial by the findings of the most recent studies. This review discusses the current developments and controversy about nutritional assessment of critically ill patients prior to medical nutrition therapy, early enteral nutrition, target of trophic feeding, and time to target achievement. This review summarizes the available evidence of MNT in critically ill patients and offers suggestions for clinical practice and future research.

Correlation study between bone metabolic markers, bone mineral density, and sarcopenia

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the correlation between bone metabolism markers, bone mineral density (BMD), and sarcopenia.

METHODS

A total of 331 consecutive patients aged ≥ 60 years who were hospitalized between November 2020 and December 2021 were enrolled. Participants were divided into sarcopenia and non-sarcopenia groups according to the Asian Working Group on Sarcopenia criteria (AWGS, 2019). The clinical data, bone metabolism markers (β-CTX, N-MID, and TP1NP), and BMD were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Age, β-CTX, and N-MID of the sarcopenia group were higher than those of the non-sarcopenia group (P < 0.05), but the BMD T values were lower than those of the non-sarcopenia group (P < 0.05). Binary logistic regression analysis showed that increased femoral neck BMD (FNBMD) was a protective factor for sarcopenia, while increased β-CTX was a risk factor. Pearson/Spearman correlation analysis showed that the diagnostic indices of sarcopenia were positively correlated with FNBMD and negatively correlated with β-CTX and N-MID. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that BMI and FNBMD significantly positively affected muscle strength and appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM). The FNBMD significantly positively affected physical performance, while β-CTX significantly negatively affected muscle strength, ASM, and physical performance.

CONCLUSION

Increased FNBMD may be a protective factor against sarcopenia, and increased β-CTX may be a risk factor. The FNBMD significantly positively affected the diagnostic indices of sarcopenia, while β-CTX significantly negatively affected them. BMD and bone metabolism marker levels may be considered in early screening for sarcopenia.

Thiolation of Terminal Alkynes with Thiuram Disulfide Reagents Using Water as the Hydrogen Source: Stereoselective Synthesis of (Z)-Vinyl Sulfides

A stereoselective and environmentally friendly thiolation of terminal alkynes was reported. Thiuram disulfide reagents (tetramethylthiuram disulfide and tetraethylthiuram disulfide) that reacted with alkynes in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)/H2O could give (Z)-vinyl sulfides in good yields (up to 88%). This protocol features broad substrate scope, good stereoselectivity, high atom economy, good yields, and is transition metal-free. Mechanistic studies revealed that water and DMSO served as hydrogen sources, which greatly highlighted the unique reactivity of this special reaction involving two H-atom donors.

Excellent Dark/Light Dual-Mode Photoresponsive Activities Based on g-C3N4/CMCh/PVA Nanocomposite Hydrogel Using Electron Beam Radiation Method

Photocatalytic technology for inactivating bacteria in water has received much attention. In this study, we reported a dark-light dual-mode sterilized g-C3N4/chitosan/poly (vinyl alcohol) hydrogel (g-CP) prepared through freeze-thaw cycling and an in situ electron-beam radiation method. The structures and morphologies of g-CP were confirmed using Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), solid ultraviolet diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-vis DRS), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET). Photocatalytic degradation experiments demonstrated that 1 wt% g-CP degraded rhodamine B (RhB) up to 65.92% in 60 min. At the same time, g-CP had good antimicrobial abilities for Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) within 4 h. The shapes of g-CP were adjustable (such as bar, cylinder, and cube) and had good mechanical properties and biocompatibility. The tensile and compressive modulus of 2 wt% g-CP were 0.093 MPa and 1.61 MPa, respectively. The Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) test and Hoechst33342/PI double staining were used to prove that g-CP had good biocompatibility. It is expected to be applied to environmental sewage treatment and wound dressing in the future.

[Advances in the epidemiology of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension]

The early symptoms of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) are not specific, and there is a high rate of misdiagnosis, missed diagnosis, and lack of awareness among clinicians. Understanding the current epidemiological characteristics of CTEPH is helpful to raise the understanding level of Chinese clinicians on CTEPH and improve the current status of prevention and treatment. However, epidemiological information and relevant reviews on CTEPH are currently lacking in China. In this review, we combined the published epidemiological literature on CTEPH in the real world, summarized the research overview, prevalence, incidence, survival rate and risk factors of CTEPH, and provided an outlook for the development of multicenter and high-quality CTEPH epidemiological research in China.

[Roles and mechanisms of m6A modification regulating RP11-426A6.5 in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma]

Objective: To investigate the roles of N6-methyladenosine (m⁶A) modification in regulating RP11-426A6.5 in the development of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC). Methods: The methylation and expression levels of lncRNAs were identified and important lncRNAs were screened utilizing long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) m⁶A methylation microarray. Cancer and para cancer tissue samples were taken from 48 LSCC patients hospitalized to the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University between January and September 2017. Expression profiling microarray was performed in 3 of 48 LSCC samples, and methylated RNA immunoprecipitation-quantitative PCR (MeRIP-qPCR) and quantitative real-time fluorescent PCR (qRT-PCR) were performed in the remaining 45 LSCC samples to verify the m⁶A modification and expression levels of RP11-426A6.5. Correlations between RP11-426A6.5 and clinical factors were anlysed. Laryngeal cancer cell line with low expression of RP11-426A6.5 was created in vitro using RNA interference (RNAi) technology. The 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) cell proliferation experiment, wound healing experiment, and transwell invasion experiment were used respectively to measure the proliferation, migration, and invasion of LSCC cells. The effect of RP11-426A6.5 down-regulation on the growth of transplanted tumors in vivo was verified by nude mice tumorigenesis assay. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and sequence-based RNA adenosine methylation site predictor (SRAMP) website were used to predict the enzymes and corresponding methylation sites. MazF digestion was chosen to validate the binding sites. RNAi technology was used to observe the changes in cell function after interfering with the expression of the corresponding genes of the modified enzymes. MeRIP-qPCR was used to detect the level of RP11-426A6.5 m⁶A cell line treated with actinomycin D was used to observe the stability of RP11-426A6.5. Results: RP11-426A6.5 methylation and expression levels were significantly higher in LSCC tissues than those in paracancerous tissues (methylation levels: 23.828±4.975 vs 20.280±3.607; expression levels: 1.197±0.314 vs 1.015±0.170, all P values<0.05). RP11-426A6.5 expression levels were closely correlated with T stage (T1-2: 1.081±0.298 vs T3-4: 1.306±0.292, χ²=5.35, P<0.05). The postoperative survival of patients with high RP11-426A6.5 expressions was significantly lower than that of patients with low RP11-426A6.5 expression (P=0.046). Assays in vitro and in vivo showed that the downregulation of RP11-426A6.5 significantly decreased the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of LSCC cells and the growth of transplanted tumors. The binding of methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3), an m⁶A-modified enzyme, to the corresponding methylation site of RP11-426A6.5 enhanced its stability and mediated its regulation of malignant behaviors of LSCC cells. Conclusions: RP11-426A6.5 can regulate the malignant behaviors of LSCC cells, which is mediated by the m⁶A modification process involving in the methyltransferase METTL3.

[The correlation between plasma heat shock proteins 90α levels and white matter hyperintensity in patients with cerebral small vessel disease]

Objective: To investigate the relationship between plasma heat shock proteins 90α(Hsp90α) levels and the white matter hyperintensity(WMH) in patients with cerebral small vessel disease(SVD). Methods: Patients admitted to the Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from March to August 2021 and diagnosed with WMH by magnetic resonance examination (MRI) were selected as the case group, matched with physical examination patients who visited the Department of Medical Examination during the same period and showed no WMH on MRI and no history of neurological diseases as the control group, and the level of plasma Hsp90α was quantitatively detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare whether there was a difference in plasma Hsp90α levels between the control group and the case group.Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to explore the related factors of WMH in patients with SVD. Results: Of the 183 subjects, the control group (n=73) consisted of 28 males and 45 females, aged (54±10) years, while the case group (n=110) consisted of 71 males and 39 females, aged (64±10) years old. Plasma Hsp90α level was higher in the case group than that of the control group [53.33(35.33, 70.09) ng/ml vs 35.02(18.51, 54.95) ng/ml, P<0.001]. After adjusting for confounding factors by multivariate analysis, the results showed that plasma Hsp90α levels greater than 58.34 ng/ml was associated with WMH (P=0.002, OR=5.931, 95%CI:1.955-17.995). Conclusion: Higher level of plasma Hsp90α is associated with WMH in patients with SVD.

Transcriptomes of Injured Lamprey Axon Tips: Single-Cell RNA-Seq Suggests Differential Involvement of MAPK Signaling Pathways in Axon Retraction and Regeneration after Spinal Cord Injury

Axotomy in the CNS activates retrograde signals that can trigger regeneration or cell death. Whether these outcomes use different injury signals is not known. Local protein synthesis in axon tips plays an important role in axon retraction and regeneration. Microarray and RNA-seq studies on cultured mammalian embryonic or early postnatal peripheral neurons showed that axon growth cones contain hundreds to thousands of mRNAs. In the lamprey, identified reticulospinal neurons vary in the probability that their axons will regenerate after axotomy. The bad regenerators undergo early severe axon retraction and very delayed apoptosis. We micro-aspirated axoplasms from 10 growing, 9 static and 5 retracting axon tips of spinal cord transected lampreys and performed single-cell RNA-seq, analyzing the results bioinformatically. Genes were identified that were upregulated selectively in growing (n = 38), static (20) or retracting tips (18). Among them, map3k2, csnk1e and gtf2h were expressed in growing tips, mapk8(1) was expressed in static tips and prkcq was expressed in retracting tips. Venn diagrams revealed more than 40 components of MAPK signaling pathways, including jnk and p38 isoforms, which were differentially distributed in growing, static and/or retracting tips. Real-time q-PCR and immunohistochemistry verified the colocalization of map3k2 and csnk1e in growing axon tips. Thus, differentially regulated MAPK and circadian rhythm signaling pathways may be involved in activating either programs for axon regeneration or axon retraction and apoptosis.

Development and verification of the coaxial heterogeneous hyperspectral imaging system

A hyperspectral imaging system (HIS) is a helpful tool that acquires spatial and spectral information from a target. This study developed a coaxial heterogeneous HIS (CHHIS) to collect spectral images with wavelengths ranging from 400 to 1700 nm. In this system, a visible (VIS) spectrometer and a short-wave infrared (SWIR) spectrometer are combined with a coaxial optical path to share the same field of view. This structure reduces the complexity of spatial registration and maintains the scanning duration of two spectrometers as that of a single spectrometer. The spectrometers are also replaceable for extending the detecting spectral range of the system. The calibration methodologies, including spatial correction, spectral calibration, and reflectance calibration, were developed for this system. The signal-to-noise ratio of VIS and SWIR spectrometers in the CHHIS was up to 40 and 60 dB when the exposure time of the VIS and SWIR imaging sensors was 1000 and 10 ms, respectively. When the target distance was at 600 mm, the spatial error of VIS and SWIR images in the scanning direction was less than 1 pixel; these results proved that the system was stable.

[Questionnaire investigation of radiation rectal injury with anxiety, depression and somatic disorder]

Objective: To observe the incidence and treatment of radiation rectal injury complicated with anxiety, depression and somatic symptom disorder. Methods: A cross-sectional survey research method was carried out. Patients with radiation rectal injury managed by members of the editorial board of Chinese Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery were the subjects of investigation. The inclusion criteria of the survey subjects: (1) patients suffered from pelvic tumors and received pelvic radiotherapy; (2) colonoscopy showed inflammatory reaction or ulcer in the rectum. Exclusion criteria: (1) patient had a history of psycho-somatic disease before radiotherapy; (2) patient was unable to use a smart phone, unable to read and understand the questions in the questionnaire displayed on the phone; (3) patient refused to sign an informed consent form. According to the SOMA self-rating scale, PHQ-15 self-rating scale, GAD-7 and PHQ-9 self-rating scale, the electronic questionnaire of "Psychological Survey of Radiation Proctitis" was designed. The questionnaire was sent to patients with radiation rectal injury managed by the committee through the WeChat group. Observational indicators: (1) radiation rectal injury symptom assessment: using SOMA self-rating scale, radiation rectal injury symptom classification: mild group (≤3 points), moderate group (4-6 points) and severe group (> 6 points); (2) incidence of anxiety, depression and physical disorder: using GAD-7, PHQ-9 and PHQ-15 self-rating scales respectively for assessment; (3) correlation of radiation rectal injury symptom grading with anxiety, depression, and somatic symptom disorder. Results: Seventy-one qualified questionnaires were collected, of which 41 (56.9%) were from Guangzhou. Among the 71 patients, 6 were males and 65 were females; the mean age was (55.7±9.3) years old and 48 patients (67.6%) were less than 60 years old; the median confirmed duration of radiation rectal injury was 2.0 (1.0, 5.0) years. (1) Evaluation of symptoms of radiation rectal injury: 18 cases of mild (25.4%), 27 cases of moderate (38.0%), and 26 cases of severe (36.6%). (2) Incidence of anxiety, depression and somatic disorder: 12 patients (16.9%) without comorbidities; 59 patients (83.1%) with anxiety, depression, or somatic disorder, of whom 2 patients only had anxiety, 1 patient only had depression, 9 only had somatic disorder, 2 had anxiety plus depression, 4 had anxiety plus somatic disorder, 2 had depression plus somatic disorder, and 40 had all three symptoms. (3) correlation of radiation rectal injury grading with anxiety, depression, and somatic symptom disorder: as compared to patients in mild group and moderate group, those in severe group had higher severity of anxiety and somatic symptom disorder (Z=-2.143, P=0.032; Z=-2.045, P=0.041), while there was no statistically significant difference of depression between mild group and moderate group (Z=-1.176, P=0.240). Pearson correlation analysis revealed that radiation rectal injury symptom score was positively correlated with anxiety (r=0.300, P=0.013), depression (r=0.287, P=0.015) and somatic symptom disorder (r=0.344, P=0.003). Conclusions: The incidence of anxiety, depression, and somatic symptom disorder in patients with radiation rectal injury is extremely high. It is necessary to strengthen the diagnosis and treatment of somatic symptom disorder, so as to alleviate the symptoms of patients with pelvic perineum pain and improve the quality of life.

[Surveillance of Culex mosquitoes in Jiangsu Province from 2018 to 2019]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the distribution and density of Culex mosquito populations and the resistance of Culex pipiens pallens to insecticides in Jiangsu Province in 2018 and 2019.

METHODS

During the period from June to October in 2018 and 2019, six counties (districts, cities) were sampled in southern, northern and central Jiangsu Province as surveillance sites. The density of Culex mosquitoes was measured overnight using the light trapping technique. In addition, Culex pipiens pallens mosquitoes were collected from Hai'an of Nantong City and Yandu District of Yancheng City, central Jiangsu Province, and the sensitivity of female first filial generations to dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), malation, proposur, beta cypermethrin and deltamethrin was tested using the standard WHO insecticide susceptibility test assay.

RESULTS

A total of 104 423 Culex mosquitoes were captured in six surveillance sites of Jiangsu Province in 2018 and 2019, and Culex quinquefasciatus (49.11%), Culex pipiens pallens (28.38%), and Culex tritaeniorhynchus (21.04%) were predominant species. The density of Culex mosquitoes started to increase since early June, peaked in July and tended to be low in late October. Culex pipiens pallens mosquitoes captured from Hai'an was susceptible to malation, while those from Yandu District were moderately resistant to malation. Culex pipiens pallens mosquitoes from both Yandu and Hai'an were moderately resistant to proposur, and were resistant to DDT, beta cypermethrin and deltamethrin.

CONCLUSIONS

Culex quinquefasciatus, Culex pipiens pallens and Culex tritaeniorhynchus are predominant Culex species in Jiangsu Province. Culex pipiens pallens is resistant to DT, beta cypermethrin and deltamethrin in central Jiangsu Province.

[Study on emergency metabolic changes of Anopheles sinensis larvae following exposure to deltamethrin]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the changes of small molecular metabolites in the larvae of a deltamethrin-sensitive strain of Anopheles sinensis following exposure to deltamethrin, so as to provide the scientific basis for investigating the metabolic pathway and screening metabolic markers of deltamethrin in An. sinensis.

METHODS

The 50% and 75% lethal concentrations (LC₅₀ and LC₇₅) of deltamethrin against the larvae of a deltamethrin-sensitive strain of An. sinensis were calculated in laboratory. The type and content of An. sinensis larvae metabolites were detected using high performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) following exposure to deltamethrin at LC₅₀ and LC₇₅ for 30 min and 24 h, and the changes of metabolites were analyzed.

RESULTS

The LC₅₀ and LC₇₅ values of deltamethrin were 4.36 × 10^-3 µg/mL and 1.12 × 10^-2 µg/mL against thelarvae of a deltamethrin-sensitive strain of An. sinensis. Following exposure of the larvae of a deltamethrin-sensitive strain of An. sinensis to deltamethrin at LC₅₀ and LC₇₅ for 30 min, the differential metabolites mainly included organic oxygen compounds, carboxylic acid and its derivatives, fatty acyl and pyrimidine nucleotides, with reduced glucose levels. Following exposure for 24 h, the differential metabolites mainly included organic oxygen compounds, carboxylic acid and its derivatives, aliphatic acyl and purine nucleotides, with increased glucose level detected.

CONCLUSIONS

Carbohydrate, carboxylic acid and its derivatives, fatty acyls, amino acids and their derivatives may play important roles in deltamethrin metabolism in the larvae of a deltamethrin-sensitive strain of An. sinensis.

[Rational use of antibiotics in severe acute pancreatitis:controversy and progress]

Infection of pancreatic necrosis is the most frequent cause of late mortality in severe acute pancreatitis(SAP). Most clinical guidelines of acute pancreatitis recommended that prophylactic antibiotics should be avoided. Prophylactic antibiotics can not reduce the pancreatic infection rate or mortality in patients with SAP ornecrotizing pancreatitis. Definitive infection is the only indication for rational use of antibiotics in SAP patients. Broad-spectrum antibiotics for treatment should cover enteric bacteria, and the bacteriology and antibiotic pharmacokinetics of SAP should be considered when selecting antibiotics.

[The role of intestinal failure in the pathogenesis of severe acute pancreatitis]

Severe acute pancreatitis can induce systemic and local complications, with infectious pancreatic necrosis and sepsis leading to the second death peak. Enterogenous infection caused by intestinal failure is considered to be an important mechanism of secondary infection of pancreatic or peripancreatic necrosis. Therefore, the prevention and treatment of intestinal failure is the key point in the treatment of severe acute pancreatitis and has an important influence on the course and prognosis of the disease. Individualized treatment should be selected according to the advantages of treatment centers and the characteristics of patients.

Cs2CO3-Promoted Hydrothiolation of Alkynes with Aryl Thioureas: Stereoselective Synthesis of (Z)-Vinyl Sulfides

A metal-free Cs₂CO₃-promoted hydrothiolation of alkynes with aryl thioureas for stereoselective synthesis of (Z)-vinyl sulfides has been reported. Vinyl thioethers were obtained without a metal catalyst in good yields via anti-Markovnikov and cis addition. The protocol features a broad substrate scope of the starting materials, high atom economy, good yields, and exclusive stereoselectivity, showing potential synthetic value for the synthesis of a diversity of (Z)-vinyl thioethers.

Validation of the Chinese Version of Dementia Quality of Life Measure - Proxy in Care Home Residents with Dementia

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate psychometric properties of the Chinese version of Dementia Quality of Life Measure - Proxy (C-DEMQoL-Proxy).

METHODS

Care home residents aged ≥60 years who were diagnosed with dementia or demonstrated impairment in cognition were recruited from four care facilities in Hong Kong. Caregivers of these participants were also invited to participate. The original DEMQoL-Proxy was translated into Chinese (Cantonese) by a trained translator. The forward-translated version was reviewed by an expert panel of six experienced healthcare professionals. Revisions were made based on comments. The instrument was back-translated to English to check whether further changes were necessary. Demographic data (age, sex, type and severity of dementia, and Mini-Mental State Examination [MMSE] score) were collected from medical records of participants with dementia. Caregivers were interviewed by an occupational therapist or personnel supervised by the occupational therapist using the C-DEMQoL-Proxy and the Chinese version of Quality of Life-Alzheimer's Disease-Proxy (C-QoL-AD-Proxy). Acceptability, reliability, and validity of the C-DEMQoL-Proxy were evaluated using standard psychometric methods.

RESULTS

90 individuals (82.2% women) with dementia aged 72 to 102 years were included. Their diagnosis included Alzheimer's disease (23.3%), vascular dementia (15.6%), mixed and other types of dementias (51.1%), and missing (10%). Severity was mild in 12.2%, moderate in 62.2%, and severe in 25.6%. The mean MMSE score was 12.0 ± 4.9. 20% of the caregivers were family members and the rest were professional carers. The C-DEMQoL-Proxy had good acceptability, with no floor or ceiling effects or missing data. It had good internal consistency (Cronbach alpha = 0.91) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficients = 0.83). It was mildly correlated with C-QoL-AD-Proxy (r = 0.29, p < 0.01). Age and sex were not correlated with C-DEMQoL-Proxy scores. C-DEMQoL-Proxy scores were not significantly different between dementia types, severity levels, or between those with higher or lower MMSE scores.

CONCLUSION

The C-DEMQoL-Proxy is a valid and reliable instrument to assess health-related quality of life in individuals with dementia.

Controlled preparation of a MCC-g-AM/EDA/PA loaded Fe(iii) adsorbent by the pre-radiation grafting method and its application for the adsorption removal of phosphate

A new spherical cellulose-based adsorbent and high phosphate removal rate microcrystalline cellulose-g-acrylamide/ethylenediamine/phthalic anhydride (MCC-g-AM/EDA/PA) loaded Fe(iii) adsorbent was prepared by a pre-radiation grafting and chemical modification method. Fe(iii) was successfully introduced into the modified grafted chains of the MCC-g-AM/EDA/PA resin, and characterized by FTIR, TG, XRD, SEM and XPS. The optimized conditions for the grafting reaction of acrylamide (AM) onto MCC were 20% AM emulsion at an absorbed dose of 30 kGy, and a grafting rate as high as 247%. In addition, the adsorption performance of the adsorbent was tested by static adsorption experiments with phosphate. The adsorbent resin showed excellent adsorption performance under alkaline conditions, contributions to the synergetic effect of precipitation, and inner-sphere surface complex reactions. The adsorption efficiency can reach 89.7% at low concentration. In summary, the neotype spherical cellulose-based adsorbent has the advantages of being separation-free in bulk materials, avoiding secondary pollution, and being easy to recycle, and it could be employed as an environmentally friendly adsorbent for phosphate removal in eutrophic water.

[Mechanism of gut-microbiota-liver axis in the pathogenesis of intestinal failure-associated liver disease]

Intestinal failure (IF) is defined as the critical reduction of functional intestines below the minimum needed to absorb nutrients and fluids, so that intravenous supplementation with parenteral nutrition (PN) is required to maintain health and/or growth. Although the benefits are evident, patients receiving PN can suffer from serious cholestasis due to lack of enteral feeding and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). One such complication that may arise is intestinal failure-associated liver disease (IFALD). Evidences from recent studies suggest that alterations in the intestinal microbiota, as well as intraluminal bile acid driven signaling, may play a critical role in both hepatic and intestinal injury. Since Marshall first proposed the concept of the gut-liver axis in 1998, the role of gut-liver axis disorders in the development of IFALD has received considerable attention. The conversation between gut and liver is the key to maintain liver metabolism and intestinal homeostasis, which influences each other and is reciprocal causation. However, as a "forgotten organ" , intestinal microbiota on the pathogenesis of IFALD has not been well reflected. As such, we propose, for the first time, the concept of gut-microbiota-liver axis to emphasize the importance of intestinal microbiota in the interaction of gut-liver axis. Analysis and research on gut-microbiota-liver axis will be of great significance for understanding the pathogenesis of IFALD and improving the prevention and treatment measures.

[Safety of laparoscopic cholecystectomy for gallbladder cancer: a meta-analysis]

Objective: To evaluate the effect and safety of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) on the treatment of patients with gallbladder cancer (GBC), compared with patients undergoing open cholecystectomy (OC). Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, CNKI, CQVIP and WANFANG DATA and the Cochrane Library were searched for all Chinese and English literatures of randomized or non-randomized concurrent controlled trials of OC and LC treatment of GBC from the database establishment to March 2020. Two reviewers selected the studies according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, extracted the data, and then a meta-analysis was subsequently performed by the RevMan 5.3 software provided by the Cochrane Library. Results: A total of 15 studies (1 074 patients) including 14 retrospective studies and 1 prospective study met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis showed that compared with OC, LC has significant short-term efficacy in the treatment of patients with gallbladder cancer, including shorter operation time (mean difference (MD) =-18.78, 95% confidence interval (CI) : -36.68-0.88; P=0.04), less intraoperative blood loss (MD=-166.57, 95%CI: -248.51--84.63; P<0.000 1), shorter post-operative hospital stays (MD=-5.00, 95%CI: -6.43--3.57; P<0.000 1), less complication rate (OR=0.47, 95%CI: 0.28-0.79; P=0.004), but there was no significant difference on the aspects of recurrence rate (OR=0.48, 95%CI: 0.21-1.11; P=0.09), 5-year overall survival (HR=0.93, 95%CI: 0.54-1.61, I²=33.5%, P=0.198) and long-term survival. Conclusion: Whether it is radical cholecystectomy (RC) or simple cholecystectomy (SC), the short-term efficacy of LC is more significant than that of OC, and the long-term survival rate has no significant statistical difference. Limited by the quality of literature and experiments, the above conclusions still need to be supported by higher quality research.

Current Status of Schistosomiasis Control and Prospects for Elimination in the Dongting Lake Region of the People's Republic of China

Schistosomiasis japonica is an ancient parasitic disease that has severely impacted human health causing a substantial disease burden not only to the Chinese people but also residents of other countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia and, before the 1970s, Japan. Since the founding of the new People's Republic of China (P. R. China), effective control strategies have been implemented with the result that the prevalence of schistosomiasis japonica has decreased markedly in the past 70 years. Historically, the Dongting Lake region in Hunan province is recognised as one of the most highly endemic for schistosomiasis in the P.R. China. The area is characterized by vast marshlands outside the lake embankments and, until recently, the presence of large numbers of domestic animals such as bovines, goats and sheep that can act as reservoir hosts for Schistosoma japonicum. Considerable social, economic and environmental changes have expanded the Oncomelania hupensis hupensis intermediate snail host areas in the Dongting lake region increasing the potential for both the emergence of new hot spots for schistosomiasis transmission, and for its re-emergence in areas where infection is currently under control. In this paper, we review the history, the current endemic status of schistosomiasis and the control strategies in operation in the Dongting Lake region. We also explore epidemiological factors contributing to S. japonicum transmission and highlight key research findings from studies undertaken on schistosomiasis mainly in Hunan but also other endemic Chinese provinces over the past 10 years. We also consider the implications of these research findings on current and future approaches that can lead to the sustainable integrated control and final elimination of schistosomiasis from the P. R. China and other countries in the region where this unyielding disease persists.

[Analysis of treatment modalities and prognosis of patients with gallbladder cancer in China from 2010 to 2017]

Objective: To evaluate the clinical characteristics and prognosis of gallbladder cancer (GBC) patients in China. Methods: This retrospective multicenter cohort study enrolled 3 528 consecutive GBC patients diagnosed between January 2010 to December 2017 in 15 hospitals from 10 provinces. There were 1 345 (38.12%) males and 2 183 (61.88%) females.The age of diagnosis was (63.7±10.8) years old (range: 26 to 99 years old) .There were 213 patients (6.04%) in stage 0 to Ⅰ, whereas 1 059 (30.02%) in stage Ⅱ to Ⅲ, 1 874 (53.12%) in stage Ⅳ, and 382 (10.83%) unavailable. Surgery was performed on 2 255 patients (63.92%) . Three hundred and thirty-six patients received chemotherapy or radiotherapy (9.52%; of which 172 were palliative); 1 101 (31.21%) received only supportive treatment.The patient source, treatment and surgery, pathology, concomitant gallstone, and prognosis were analyzed. Results: Among the 3 528 GBC patients, 959 (27.18%) were from East China, 603 (17.09%) from East-North China, 1 533 (43.45%) from Central China, and 433(12.27%) from West China. Among the 1 578 resectable tumor, 665 (42.14%) underwent radical surgery, 913 (57.86%) underwent surgery that failed to follow the guidelines.Eight hundred and ninety-one (56.46%) patients were diagnosed before surgery, 254 (16.10%) during surgery, and 381 (24.14%) after surgery (time point of diagnosis couldn't be determined in 52 patients) .Among the 1 578 patients with resectable tumor, 759 (48.10%) had concomitant gallstone.Among the 665 patients underwent radical surgery, 69 (10.4%) showed positive resection margin, 510 (76.7%) showed negative resection margin, and 86 (12.9%) unreported margin status.The 5-year overall survival rate (5yOS) for the 3 528-patient cohort was 23.0%.The 5yOS for patients with resectable tumor was 39.6%, for patients with stage ⅣB tumor without surgery was 5.4%, and for patients with stage ⅣB tumor underwent palliative surgery was 4.7%. Conclusions: More than half GBC patients in China are diagnosed in stage Ⅳ.Curative intent surgery is valuable in improving prognosis of resectable GBC.The treatment of GBC needs further standardization.Effective comprehensive treatment for GBC is in urgent need.

[Feasibility of near-infrared fluorescence imaging in assisting with the determination of the resection range of radiation intestinal injury]

Objective: To investigate the feasibility of near-infrared fluorescence imaging (NIRFI) to assist in determining the resection range of radiation intestinal injury (RII). Methods: A descriptive cohort study was conducted. Clinical data of 10 RII patients who presented intestinal obstruction and received operation with more than 100 cm of small intestine had been resected atGeneral Department of Jinling Hospital from October 2014 to January 2015 were retrospectively analyzed. The Novadaq SPY Intra-operative Imaging System was used in capturing and viewing fluorescent images. Firstly, the dense adhesion was mobilized and the obstructive intestine was fully freed under laparoscopy, then entering into abdomen from the corresponding incision. The surgeon determined the resection range according to the color of the intestinal serous layer of the diseased intestinal wall, the thickness of the intestinal wall, and the degree of swelling of the mesentery. Afterwards, intra-operative NIRFI was performed by intravenous injection of 2 ml indocyanine green (ICG) and the imaging results of the diseased intestinal arteriovenous phase were observed and recorded. The evaluation criteria for the final resection range were mainly based on the changes in mesenteric arterial phase imaging. In RII lesions, mesenteric vessels in mesenteric artery phase were disordered, and the comb-like distribution of normal mesenteric vessels completely disappeared. Only the clouded appearance in the intestinal wall was observed. Imaging results of the diseased intestinal tissue during the development phase and mesenteric vein phase were not significantly different from normal intestinal tissue. Intraoperative and postoperative conditions under NIRFI-assisted positioning, including the resection range, anastomosis site, operation-related complications, hospitalization time and cost were recorded. Data of abdominal contrast-enhanced CT and gastrointestinal angiography during 5 years of follow-up were collected to evaluate whether there was anastomotic stenosis or insufficient resection of diseased bowel. Results: Based on the imaging of mesenteric arterial phase of NIRFI, the median resection length of the small intestine was 185 (120-260) cm. After NIRFI imaging, only local lesion of ileum was excised in 6 patients, and jejunum-ileum anastomosis was performed to preserve ileocecal flap. No serious complications such as anastomotic leakage and anastomotic hemorrhage, or chronic intestinal failure such as short bowel syndrome occurred. The median hospitalization time was 32 (22-51) days, and the median hospitalization cost was 142 000 (90 000-175 000) RMB. The hospitalization time and cost were mainly used for the enteral and parenteral nutrition support treatment during the perioperative period. All the patients had normal oral diet and/or oral enteral nutrient. After 5 years of follow-up, no recurrence was found. Abdominal contrast-enhanced CT and gastrointestinal angiography showed no thickening of the intestinal wall or stenosis of the lumen. Conclusion: Mesenteric arterial phase imagingof NIRFI can help surgeons to determine the site and range of resection of RII lesions.

[Challenges and countermeasures of schistosomiasis control in Hunan Province in the new era]

This paper describes the current epidemic characteristics and endemic status of schistosomiasis, analyzes the main challenges of schistosomiasis control and proposes the emphasis and interventions for future schistosomiasis control activities in Hunan Province, so as to provide insights into the elimination of schistosomiasis in Hunan Province.

[Implications, spiritual characteristics and practical significance of Chinese schistosomiasis control culture]

The culture of schistosomiasis control is specific in the history of Chinese culture. Broadly speaking, the culture of schistosomiasis control is a summary of specific social mood, social consciousness and material culture created by Chinese populations during the progress of schistosomiasis control since the founding of the People's Republic of China. Narrowly speaking, the culture of schistosomiasis control is the spiritual culture that is jointly created and nurtured by schistosomiasis control workers since the founding of the People's Republic of China. The spiritual features of Chinese schistosomiasis control culture are characterized by the patriotism and care about the people, the matter-to-fact attitude, the pioneering and enterprising spirit, and the spirit of sacrifice and dedication. The ultimate goal of the research on the culture of schistosomiasis control is to facilitate the achievement of the strategic goal of Healthy China 2030 as scheduled, accelerate the progress towards elimination of schistosomiasis, and to promote the sustainable development of schistosomiasis control in China.

[Effects of dendritic epidermal T cells on proliferation and apoptosis of epidermal cells in wound margin of mice]

Objective: To explore the effects of dendritic epidermal T cells (DETC) on proliferation and apoptosis of epidermal cells in wound margin of mice and its effects on wound healing. Methods: Twenty-eight healthy specific pathogen free (SPF) C57BL/6 wild-type (WT) male mice aged 8-12 weeks and 60 SPF T lymphocyte receptor δ-knockout (TCR δ(-/-)) male mice aged 8-12 weeks were selected to conduct the following experiments. (1) Eight WT mice were selected to isolate epidermal cells and primarily culture DETC according to the random number table. Morphological observation and purity identification of DETC by flow cytometer were detected immediately after culture and on culture day (CD) 15 and 30, respectively. (2) According to the random number table, 5 WT mice and 5 TCR δ(-/-) mice were selected and enrolled into WT control group and TCR δ(-/-) group. Round full-thickness skin defect with diameter of 6 mm was made on the back of each mouse. The wound healing condition was observed immediately after injury and on post injury day (PID) 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and the percentage of residual wound area was calculated. (3) Mice were selected to group and reproduce model of full-thickness skin defect as in experiment (2). On PID 3, the tissue of wound margin was collected for hematoxylin eosin staining, and the length of new epithelium was measured. (4) Mice were selected to group and reproduce model of full-thickness skin defect as in experiment (2). On PID 3, epidermal tissue of wound margin was collected to determine expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) using Western blotting for evaluation of proliferation of epidermal cell. (5) Mice were selected to group and reproduce model of full-thickness skin defect as in experiment (2). On PID 3, epidermal tissue of wound margin was selected and digested into single-cell suspension, and apoptosis of cells was detected by flow cytometer. (6) Forty TCR δ(-/-) mice were selected to carry out the same treatment as in experiments (2)-(5). According to the random number table, these mice were enrolled into TCR δ(-/-) control group and TCR δ(-/-)+ DETC group, with 5 mice in each group for each experiment. Round full-thickness skin defect was made on the back of each mouse. DETC in the number of 1×10(5) (dissolution in 100 μL phosphate with buffer purity above 90%) were injected through multiple points of wound margin of mice in TCR δ(-/-)+ DETC group immediately after injury, and equal volume of phosphate buffer was injected into mice of TCR δ(-/-) control group with the same method as above. Data were processed with one-way analysis of variance for repeated measurement, t test, and Bonferroni correction. Results: (1) Along with the culture time elapse, the number of dendritic structures of DETC increased gradually. The percentage of T lymphocytes was 4.67% and 94.1% of these T lymphocytes were DETC. The purity of DETC on CD 15 was 18.50% and the purity of DETC on CD 30 was 98.70%. (2) Immediately after injury, the wound healing condition of mice in WT control group and TCR δ(-/-) group was similar. The wound healing speed of mice in TCR δ(-/-) group was slower than that in WT control group on PID 2-10. The percentages of residual wound area of mice in TCR δ(-/-) group on PID 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 were increased significantly compared with those in WT control group (t=3.492, 4.425, 4.170, 4.780, 7.318, P<0.01). (3) The length of new epithelium of mice in TCR δ(-/-) group on PID 3 was (359 ± 15) μm, which was obviously shorter than that in WT control group [(462±26) μm, t=3.462, P<0.01]. (4) Immediately after injury, wound condition of mice in TCR δ(-/-)+ DETC group and TCR δ(-/-) control group was similar. Compared with TCR δ(-/-)+ DETC group, the wound healing speed of mice in TCR δ(-/-) control group were obviously slower on PID 2-10. The percentages of residual wound area of mice in TCR δ(-/-)+ DETC group on PID 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 were decreased significantly compared with those in TCR δ(-/-) control group (t=2.308, 3.725, 2.698, 3.707, 6.093, P<0.05 or P<0.01). (5) On PID 3, the length of new epithelium of mice in TCR δ(-/-)+ DETC group was (465±31) μm, which was obviously longer than that in TCR δ(-/-) control group [(375±21) μm, t=2.390, P<0.05]. (6) On PID 3, PCNA expression of epidermal cell in wound margin of mice in TCR δ(-/-) group was 1.25±0.04, which was obviously lower than that in WT control group (2.01±0.09, t=7.415, P<0.01). (7) On PID 3, PCNA expression of epidermal cell in wound margin of mice in TCR δ(-/-)+ DETC group was 1.62±0.08, which was significantly higher than that in TCR δ(-/-) control group (1.05±0.14, t=3.561, P<0.05). (8) On PID 3, apoptosis rate of epidermal cell in wound margin of mice in TCR δ(-/-) group was (16.1±1.4)%, which was higher than that in WT control group [(8.1±0.6)%, t=5.363, P<0.01]. (9) On PID 3, apoptosis rate of epidermal cell in wound margin of mice in TCR δ(-/-)+ DETC group was (11.4±1.0)%, which was obviously lower than that in TCR δ(-/-) control group [(15.4±1.4)%, t=2.377, P<0.05]. Conclusions: DETC participates in the process of wound healing though promoting the proliferation of epidermal cells in wound margin and inhibit the apoptosis of these cells.

[Complete mitochondrial genomes of Paragonimus westermani in China and phylogenetic analysis of various geographical isolates]

OBJECTIVE

To compare the complete mitochondrial genome sequences of two phenotypes of Paragonimus westermani isolated from Fujian Province with different sizes of metacercariae, and perform a phylogenetic analysis of various geographical isolates of P. westermani from Asia, so as to identify the possible genetic characteristics associated with the P. westermani phenotypes.

METHODS

P. westermani metacercariae with different sizes (large metacercariae, 380-420 μm in diameter; small metacercariae, 320-340 μm) isolated from freshwater crabs were used to infect dogs, and the eggs and adult worms of P. westermani were collected from the dog stool samples and lung tissues. Then, the egg size and morphology were compared. In addition, genomic DNA was extracted from the adult worms of the two phenotypes of P. westermani and used for the PCR amplification to yield the complete mitochondrial genome sequence. Sequence structure and phylogenetic analyses were performed based on the complete mitochondrial genome of P. westermani.

RESULTS

Following infection with large and small P. westermani metacercariae, the adult worms recovered from the dog lung had a thick body, and had oral and ventral suckers. The ventral sucker was located slightly in front of the midline of the body, and testes, ovary and vitelline gland were seen in the adult worms. Following fixation, the adults appeared oval, with an approximately 1.7∶1 of the length-width ratio. The length and width of the eggs isolated from the fecal samples of dogs infected with large and small P. westermani metacercariae varied significantly, and the large metacercariae produced bigger eggs than the smaller metacercariae. Based on the morphological features of adults and eggs and the ITS2 sequences, both phenotypes were identified as P. westermani. The complete mitochondrial genome sequence analysis of adults showed almost consistent sequences in the protein-coding region of the mitochondrial genome of adult worms derived from large and small metacercariae, with a major variation seen in the former non-coding region. Sliding window analysis revealed the most polymorphic region within the ND4 gene across the mitochondrial genome from various geographical isolates of P. westermani, and phylogenetic analysis showed that both phenotypes were clustered into the Chinese branch of P. westermani, which was close to the Japanese branch and distinct from the South/Southeast Asian branch.

CONCLUSIONS

The genetic distance between the phenotypes of P. westermani isolated from Fujian Province is near at a mitochondrial genome level, with no remarkable genetic differentiation seen; however, the mutation and structural changes in the non-coding region may result in the phenotypic variations. In addition, there is a distinct variation of the evolutionary rate in the mitochondrial coding genes, suggesting the selection of appropriate molecular markers during the phylogenic researches.

A Mild Synthesis of 2-Substituted Benzothiazoles via Nickel-Catalyzed Intramolecular Oxidative C-H Functionalization

A highly efficient synthetic method for the preparation of 2-aminobenzothiazoles starting from arylthioureas has been reported. By using a nickel catalyst, arylthioureas undergo intramolecular oxidative C-H bond functionalization, giving the desired 2-aminobenzothiazoles in good to excellent yields. This protocol features an inexpensive catalyst, low catalyst loading, mild reaction conditions, a short reaction time, and good to excellent yields, and it can be scaled up easily to a gram scale with almost no yields decreasing.

Unique genetic profiles from cerebrospinal fluid cell-free DNA in leptomeningeal metastases of EGFR-mutant non-small-cell lung cancer: a new medium of liquid biopsy

Background

Leptomeningeal metastases (LM) are more frequent in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations. Due to limited access to leptomeningeal lesions, the purpose of this study was to explore the potential role of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as a source of liquid biopsy in patients with LM.

Patients and methods

Primary tumor, CSF, and plasma in NSCLC with LM were tested by next-generation sequencing. In total, 45 patients with suspected LM underwent lumbar puncture, and those with EGFR mutations diagnosed with LM were enrolled.

Results

A total of 28 patients were enrolled in this cohort; CSF and plasma were available in 26 patients, respectively. Driver genes were detected in 100% (26/26), 84.6% (22/26), and 73.1% (19/26) of samples comprising CSF cell-free DNA (cfDNA), CSF precipitates, and plasma, respectively; 92.3% (24/26) of patients had much higher allele fractions in CSF cfDNA than the other two media. Unique genetic profiles were captured in CSF cfDNA compared with those in plasma and primary tissue. Multiple copy number variations (CNVs) were mainly identified in CSF cfDNA, and MET copy number gain identified in 47.8% (11/23) of patients was the most frequent one, while other CNVs included ERBB2, KRAS, ALK, and MYC. Moreover, loss of heterozygosity (LOH) of TP53 was identified in 73.1% (19/26) CSF cfDNA, which was much higher than that in plasma (2/26, 7.7%; P < 0.001). There was a trend towards a higher frequency of concomitant resistance mutations in patients with TP53 LOH than those without (70.6% versus 33.3%; P = 0.162). EGFR T790M was identified in CSF cfDNA of 30.4% (7/23) of patients who experienced TKI progression.

Conclusion

CSF cfDNA could reveal the unique genetic profiles of LM and should be considered as the most representative liquid biopsy medium for LM in EGFR-mutant NSCLC.

[Characteristics of cervical lymph node metastasis of cN0 laryngeal carcinoma]

Objective: To investigate the incidence of occult cervical lymph node metastasis and the common neck level of metastases in cN0 laryngocarcinoma, and the relationship between the clinicopathologic features of laryngocarcinoma and cervical lymph node metastasis. Methods: A total of 506 cases with cN0 laryngocarcinoma treated at the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University between March 2011 and March 2018 were enrolled, and their medical records and follow-up data were retrospectively analyzed. Of them, 211 cases of were glottic carcinoma in stage T1 without neck dissection and they were observed by clinical follow-up; other 295 cases, including glottic carcinoma, supraglottic carcinoma and hypopharyngeal carcinoma in stage T2-T4 were treated with surgical resection of the primary lesions and selective neck dissection. SPSS 22.0 software was used to analyze the data. Results: The total incidence of cervical lymph node metastasis was 10.87%(55/506), with a lower incidence in T1 stage glottic carcinoma(6/211,2.84%) than that in other cases(49/295,16.61%). The incidence of cervical lymph node metastasis in glottic carcinoma (29/426, 6.81%) was lower than those in supraglottic carcinoma (22/71,30.99%) and subglottic carcinoma (4/9) (χ(2)=35.810,P<0.01).The pN+ rates of glottic carcinoma at T1, T2, T3 were 2.84%(6/211), 5.31%(6/113), 16.05%(13/81), and 19.05%(4/21), respectively (χ(2)=18.572, P<0.01). The pN+ rates of supraglottic carcinoma at T2, T3 and T4 were 3/13, 32.50%(13/40) and 6/13, respectively (χ(2)=3.649,P>0.05). The incidence of cervical lymph node metastasis in poorly differentiated carcinoma (17/42, 40.48%) was higher than those in moderately differentiated carcinoma (26/205, 12.68%) and high differentiated carcinoma(12/246, 4.88%)(χ(2)=36.356, P<0.01). Moreover, 85 pN+ lymph nodes were obtained by selective neck dissection, respectively 43(50.59%) in level Ⅱa, 30(35.29%) in level Ⅲ, 1(1.18%) in level Ⅳ and 11(12.94%) in level Ⅵ. Conclusions: The occult cervical lymph node metastasis was frequently found in cN0 laryngocarcinoma. Selective neck dissection should be performed with surgery for the primary lesions in T3-T4 glottic laryngeal cancer, T2-T4 supraglottic laryngeal cancer and subglottic carcinoma, and the neck dissection for level Ⅱa and Ⅲ is appropriate. It is required to detect pre-laryngeal and pre-tracheal lymph nodes in patients with subglottic laryngeal carcinoma.

[Effects of skin γδ T lymphocytes on wound healing of mice through regulating proliferation and differentiation of mice epidermal cells]

Objective: To explore effects of dendritic epidermal T cells (DETCs) and Vγ4 T lymphocytes on proliferation and differentiation of mice epidermal cells and the effects in wound healing of mice. Methods: (1) Six C57BL/6 male mice aged 8 weeks were collected and divided into control group and wound group according to random number table (the same grouping method below), with 3 mice in each group. A 4 cm long straight excision with full-thickness skin defect was cut on back of each mouse in wound group, while mice in control group received no treatment. On post injury day (PID) 3, mice in 2 groups were sacrificed, and skin within 5 mm from the wound margin on back of mice in wound group and normal skin on corresponding part of mice in control group were collected to make single cell suspensions. The percentage of Vγ4 T lymphocyte expressing interleukin-17A (IL-17A) and percentage of DETCs expressing insulin-like growth factor Ⅰ (IGF-Ⅰ) were detected by flow cytometer. (2) Ten C57BL/6 male mice aged 8 weeks were collected and divided into control group and Vγ4 T lymphocyte depletion group with 5 mice in each group. Mice in Vγ4 T lymphocyte depletion group were injected with 200 g Vγ4 T lymphocyte monoclonal neutralizing antibody of Armenian hamster anti-mouse intraperitoneally, and mice in control group were injected with the same amount of Armenian hamster Ig intraperitoneally. One hole with full-thickness skin defect was made on each side of spine of back of each mice. The wound healing was observed on PID 1-8, and percentage of remaining wound area was calculated. (3) Six C57BL/6 male mice aged 8 weeks were grouped and treated in the same way as in experiment (2), with 3 mice in each group. On PID 3, expressions of IL-17A and IGF-Ⅰ in epidermis on margin of wound were detected with Western blotting. (4) Thirty C57BL/6 male mice aged 3 days were sacrificed, and epidermal cells were extracted. The keratin 14 positive cell rate was examined by flow cytometer (the same detecting method below). (5) Another batch of mouse epidermal cells were collected and divided into control group, IGF-Ⅰ group, and IL-17A group, with 3 wells in each group (the same well number below). Cells in IGF-Ⅰ group and IL-17A group were added with 1 mL recombinant mouse IGF-Ⅰ and IL-17A with final mass concentration of 100 ng/mL respectively, while cells in control group were added with the same amount of sterile phosphate buffered saline (PBS). On post culture day (PCD) 5, keratin 14 negative cell rate was examined. Another batch of mouse epidermal cells were collected, grouped, and treated in the same way as aforementioned experiment, and keratin 10 positive cell rate was examined on PCD 10. (6) Another batch of mouse epidermal cells were collected and added with 4 mmol/L 5(6)-carboxyfluorescein diacetate N-succinimidyl ester (CFSE) solution, and divided into control 0 d group, control 7 d group, IGF-Ⅰ group, and IL-17A group. Cells in IGF-Ⅰ group and IL-17A group were treated in the same way as the corresponding groups in experiment (5), and cells in control 0 d group and control 7 d group were treated in the same way as the control group in experiment (5). The CFSE fluorescence peaks were examined on PCD 0 of control 0 d group and PCD 7 of the other 3 groups. (7) Another batch of mouse epidermal cells were collected and divided into control group and IGF-Ⅰ group. Cells in IGF-Ⅰ group were added with 1 mL recombinant mouse IGF-Ⅰ with final mass concentration of 100 ng/mL, and cells in control group were added with the same amount of sterile PBS. On PCD 5, cells were underwent keratin 14 staining and CFSE staining as aforementioned, and keratin 14 negative cell rate of CFSE positive cells was examined. Another batch of mouse epidermal cells were collected and divided into control group and IL-17A group. Cells in IL-17A group were added with 1 mL recombinant mouse IL-17A with final mass concentration of 100 ng/mL, and cells in control group were added with the same amount of sterile PBS. On PCD 5, keratin 14 negative cell rate of CFSE positive cells was examined. Data were processed with one-way analysis of variance and t test. Results: (1) On PID 3, percentage of DETC expressing IGF-Ⅰ in normal epidermis of control group was (9.9±0.8)%, significantly lower than (19.0±0.6)% of epidermis around margin of wound group (t=8.70, P<0.01); percentage of Vγ4 T lymphocyte expressing IL-17A in normal epidermis of control group was (0.123±0.024)%, significantly lower than (8.967±0.406)% of epidermis around margin of wound group (t=21.77, P<0.01). (2) On PID 1-4, there was obvious inflammatory reaction around wounds of mice in control group, and on PID 5-8, the wound area was still large. On PID 1-4, there was slight inflammatory reaction around wounds of mice in Vγ4 T lymphocyte depletion group, and on PID 5-8, the wound area was significantly reduced. On PID 3-7, percentages of residual wound area in Vγ4 T lymphocyte depletion group were significantly lower than those in control group (t=5.92, 5.74, 7.17, 5.38, 5.57, P<0.01), while percentages of residual wound area in two groups on PID 1, 2, 6 were similar (t=1.46, 3.17, 3.10, P>0.05). (3) On PID 3, compared with those in control group, expression of IL-17A and IGF-Ⅰ in epidermis around wound margin of mice in Vγ4 T lymphocyte depletion group was markedly decreased and increased respectively (t=8.47, 19.24, P<0.01). (4) The keratin 14 positive cell rate of mouse epidermal cells was 94.7%. (5) On PCD 5, the keratin 14 negative cell rate of mice in control group was markedly higher than that of IGF-Ⅰ group, while significantly lower than that of IL-17A group (t=7.25, 5.64, P<0.01). On PCD 10, the keratin 10 positive cell rate of mice in control group was significantly higher than that of IGF-Ⅰ group, while significantly lower than that of IL-17A group (t=3.99, 10.82, P<0.05 or P<0.01). (6) Compared with that of control 0 d group, CFSE fluorescence peaks of mouse epidermal cells in control 7 d group, IGF-Ⅰ group, and IL-17A group on PCD 7 shifted to the left. Compared with that of control 7 d group, CFSE fluorescence peaks of mouse epidermal cells in IGF-Ⅰ group and IL-17A group on PCD 7 shifted to the left. (7) On PCD 5, keratin 14 negative cell rate of CFSE positive cells of mice in control group was significantly higher than that in IGF-Ⅰ group (t=9.91, P<0.01), and keratin 14 negative cell rate of CFSE positive cells of mice in control group was markedly lower than that in IL-17A group (t=6.49, P<0.01). Conclusions: In the process of wound healing, IGF-Ⅰ secreted by DETC can promote the proliferation of mouse keratin 14 positive epidermal cells and inhibit their terminal differentiation, while IL-17A secreted by Vγ4 T lymphocyte can promote the proliferation and terminal differentiation of mouse keratin 14 positive epidermal cells, thus both IGF-Ⅰ and IL-17A can affect wound healing.

Field Testing Integrated Interventions for Schistosomiasis Elimination in the People's Republic of China: Outcomes of a Multifactorial Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial

Despite significant progress, China faces the challenge of re-emerging schistosomiasis transmission in currently controlled areas due, in part, to the presence of a range of animal reservoirs, notably water buffalo and cattle, which can harbor Schistosoma japonicum infections. Environmental, ecological and social-demographic changes in China, shown to affect the distribution of oncomelanid snails, can also impact future schistosomiasis transmission. In light of their importance in the S. japonicum, lifecycle, vaccination has been proposed as a means to reduce the excretion of egg from cattle and buffalo, thereby interrupting transmission from these reservoir hosts to snails. A DNA-based vaccine (SjCTPI) our team developed showed encouraging efficacy against S. japonicum in Chinese water buffaloes. Here we report the results of a double-blind cluster randomized trial aimed at determining the impact of a combination of the SjCTPI bovine vaccine (given as a prime-boost regimen), human mass chemotherapy and snail control on the transmission of S. japonicum in 12 selected administrative villages around the Dongting Lake in Hunan province. The trial confirmed human praziquantel treatment is an effective intervention at the population level. Further, mollusciciding had an indirect ~50% efficacy in reducing human infection rates. Serology showed that the SjCTPI vaccine produced an effective antibody response in vaccinated bovines, resulting in a negative correlation with bovine egg counts observed at all post-vaccination time points. Despite these encouraging outcomes, the effect of the vaccine in preventing human infection was inconclusive. This was likely due to activities undertaken by the China National Schistosomiasis Control Program, notably the treatment, sacrifice or removal of bovines from trial villages, over which we had no control; as a result, the trial design was compromised, reducing power and contaminating outcome measures. This highlights the difficulties in undertaking field trials of this nature and magnitude, particularly over a long period, and emphasizes the importance of mathematical modeling in predicting the potential impact of control intervention measures. A transmission blocking vaccine targeting bovines for the prevention of S. japonicum with the required protective efficacy would be invaluable in tandem with other preventive intervention measures if the goal of eliminating schistosomiasis from China is to become a reality.

Distribution pattern of the snail intermediate host of schistosomiasis japonica in the Poyang Lake region of China

BACKGROUND

With the closure of the Three Gorges Dam in 2003 the hydrology of Poyang Lake was altered dramatically leading to significant changes in the environment. In order to assess the impact on schistosomiasis this study assessed the spatial and temporal patterns of the snail intermediate host, Oncomelania hupensis in the Poyang Lake tributaries. The results of the study have important implications for future snail control strategies leading to disease elimination.

METHODS

The marshland area surrounding Poyang Lake was divided randomly into 200 × 200 m vector grids using ArcGIS software, and the surveyed grids were randomly selected by the software. The snail survey was conducted in each selected grid using a survey frame of 50 × 50 m with one sideline of each grid serving as the starting line. No less than ten frames were used in each surveyed grid with Global Positioning System (GPS) recordings for each. All snails in each frame were collected to determine infection status by microscopy. Altitude data for all frames were extracted from a lake bottom topographic map in order to analyze the average altitude. All snail survey data were collected and statistically analyzed with SPSS 20.0 software in order to determine the difference of the percentage of frames with living snails and mean density of living snails in different regions of Poyang Lake. The altitude of the snail-infested marshlands and snail dens were subsequently identified.

RESULTS

A total of 1159 potential snail sampling grids were surveyed, of which 15 231 frames (0.1 m2/frame) were investigated. 1241 frames had live Oncomelania snails corresponding to 8.15% of the total number of frames. The mean density of living snails was 0.463/0.1 m2 with a maximum of 57 snails per frame. The percent of frames with snails in the southern sector (8.13%) of Poyang Lake did not differ statistically from the north (8.21%). However, the mean density of live snails in the northern sector (0.164/0.1 m2) of the lake was statistically higher (F = 6.727; P = 0.010) than the south (0.141/0.1 m2). In the south of the lake, the elevation of snail-inhabited marshland ranged between 11 - 16 m, and could be further subdivided into two snail-concentrated belts at 12-13 m of elevation and 15-16 m of elevation respectively. In the north of the lake, the elevation of snail-inhabited marshland ranged between 9- 16 m with the elevation of 12-14 m being the snail-concentrated zone.

CONCLUSIONS

The elevation of snail-infested marshlands in the Poyang Lake region ranged from 9 to 16 m. The snail distribution and habitat has moved north of the lake and to a lower altitude due to changes in the water level post dam closure. Based on the current geological features of the snail habitant focused mollusciciding should occur in snail dense northern regions with frequent bovine and human traffic. Targeting these identified 'hotspots' of transmission will assist in elimination efforts.

[Establishment and optimization of hepatocyte steatosis model]

Objective: To establish a new model of hepatic steatosis cells by optimizing the original ethanol or high fat, the present study proposed an in vitro hepatocyte steatosis model for the study of fatty liver. Methods: Oil red O staining was used to observe the effects of fetal bovine serum, oleic acid and ethanol on lipid accumulation in human liver cell line L02 in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. RT-PCR was used to detect the mRNA expression levels of PPAR-γ and AP-2, and the suitable conditions for the establishment of hepatocyte steatosis model were screened out. A t-test was used for comparison between the two groups, and one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used in more than three groups. Results: Oil red O staining showed the number of reddish-orange lipid droplets in L02 cells gradually increased with the increase of fetal bovine serum, oleic acid and ethanol in a concentration - and time-dependent manner. Compared with 0.00% oleic acid and 2% ethanol, the count value of red particle was 100.00% ± 17.63% at the beginning and after 24 h, 0.003% oleic acid and 2% ethanol jointly acted in L02 cells. After incubation for 48 hours with 2% ethanol and serum-free DMEM medium, the accumulation of lipid droplets was the highest with a count value of 802.38%+71.06%(t = 42.36, P < 0.001). RT-PCR analysis showed the lipid accumulation induced by this method was positively correlated with the mRNA expression of PPAR-γ and AP-2. Conclusion: L02 cells were successfully exposed to high fat and ethanol, and the hepatocyte steatosis model was established and optimized, suggesting that the occurrence of hepatic cell steatosis was related to the up-regulation of PPAR-γ and AP-2.