Enabling Ultrafine Ru Nanoparticles with Tunable Electronic Structures via a Double-Shell Hollow Interlayer Confinement Strategy toward Enhanced Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Performance

Engineering of the catalysts' structural stability and electronic structure could enable high-throughput H2 production over electrocatalytic water splitting. Herein, a double-shell interlayer confinement strategy is proposed to modulate the spatial position of Ru nanoparticles in hollow carbon nanoreactors for achieving tunable sizes and electronic structures toward enhanced H2 evolution. Specifically, the Ru can be anchored in either the inner layer (Ru-DSC-I) or the external shell (Ru-DSC-E) of double-shell nanoreactors, and the size of Ru is reduced from 2.2 to 0.9 nm because of the double-shell confinement effect. The electronic structures are efficiently optimized thereby stabilizing active sites and lowering the reaction barrier. According to finite element analysis results, the mesoscale mass diffusion can be promoted in the double-shell configuration. The Ru-DSC-I nanoreactor exhibits a much lower overpotential (η10 = 73.5 mV) and much higher stability (100 mA cm-2). Our work might shed light on the precise design of multishell catalysts with efficient refining electrostructures toward electrosynthesis applications.

Trifunctional L-Cysteine Assisted Construction of MoO2 /MoS2 /C Nanoarchitecture Toward High-Rate Sodium Storage

The volume collapse and slow kinetics reaction of anode materials are two key issues for sodium ion batteries (SIBs). Herein, an "embryo" strategy is proposed for synthesis of nanorod-embedded MoO2 /MoS2 /C network nanoarchitecture as anode for SIBs with high-rate performance. Interestingly, L-cysteine which plays triple roles including sulfur source, reductant, and carbon source can be utilized to produce the sulfur vacancy-enriched heterostructure. Specifically, L-cysteine can combine with metastable monoclinic MoO3 nanorods at room temperature to encapsulate the "nutrient" of MoOx analogues (MoO2.5 (OH)0.5 and MoO3 ·0.5H2 O) and hydrogen-deficient L-cysteine in the "embryo" precursor affording for subsequent in situ multistep heating treatment. The resultant MoO2 /MoS2 /C presents a high-rate capability of 875 and 420 mAh g-1 at 0.5 and 10 A g-1 , respectively, which are much better than the MoS2 -based anode materials reported by far. Finite element simulation and analysis results verify that the volume expansion can be reduced to 42.8% from 88.8% when building nanorod-embedded porous network structure. Theoretical calculations reveal that the sulfur vacancies and heterointerface engineering can promote the adsorption and migration of Na+ leading to highly enhanced thermodynamic and kinetic reaction. The work provides an efficient approach to develop advanced electrode materials for energy storage.

Use of differential stimulation of the nucleus accumbens and anterior limb of the internal capsule to improve outcomes of obsessive-compulsive disorder

OBJECTIVE

Personalized stimulation is key to optimizing the outcomes of deep brain stimulation (DBS) for refractory obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). However, the contacts in a single conventional electrode cannot be programmed independently, which may affect the therapeutic efficacy of DBS for OCD. Therefore, a novel designed electrode and implantable pulse generator (IPG) that could achieve differential stimulation parameters for different contacts was implanted into the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and anterior limb of the internal capsule (ALIC) of a cohort of patients with OCD.

METHODS

Thirteen consecutive patients underwent bilateral DBS of the NAc-ALIC between January 2016 and May 2021. Differential stimulation of the NAc-ALIC was applied at initial activation. Primary effectiveness was assessed on the basis of change in scores on the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) from baseline to 6-month follow-up. Full-response was defined as a 35% decrease in Y-BOCS score. Secondary effectiveness measures were the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA) and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD). The local field potential of bilateral NAc-ALIC was recorded in 4 patients who were reimplanted with a sensing IPG after battery depletion of the previous IPG.

RESULTS

The Y-BOCS, HAMA, and HAMD scores decreased remarkably during the first 6 months of DBS. Ten of 13 patients were categorized as responders (76.9%). Differential stimulation of the NAc-ALIC was favorable to optimization of the stimulation parameters by increasing the parameter configurations. Power spectral density analysis revealed pronounced delta-alpha frequency activity in the NAc-ALIC. Phase-amplitude coupling of the NAc-ALIC showed that strong coupling is present between the phase of delta-theta and broadband gamma amplitude.

CONCLUSIONS

These preliminary findings indicate that differential stimulation of the NAc-ALIC can improve the efficacy of DBS for OCD. Clinical trial registration no.: NCT02398318 (ClinicalTrials.gov).

Universal Sub-Nanoreactor Strategy for Synthesis of Yolk-Shell MoS2 Supported Single Atom Electrocatalysts toward Robust Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

The coordination structure determines the electrocatalytic performances of single atom catalysts (SACs), while it remains a challenge to precisely regulate their spatial location and coordination environment. Herein, we report a universal sub-nanoreactor strategy for synthesis of yolk-shell MoS2 supported single atom electrocatalysts with dual-anchored microenvironment of vacancy-enriched MoS2 and intercalation carbon toward robust hydrogen-evolution reaction. Theoretical calculations reveal that the "E-Lock" and "E-Channel" are conducive to stabilize and activate metal single atoms. A group of SACs is subsequently produced with the assistance of sulfur vacancy and intercalation carbon in the yolk-shell sub-nanoreactor. The optimized C-Co-MoS2 yields the lowest overpotential (η10 =17 mV) compared with previously reported MoS2 -based electrocatalysts to date, and also affords a 5-9 fold improvement in activity even comparing with those as-prepared single-anchored analogues. Theoretical results and in situ characterizations unveil its active center and durability. This work provides a universal pathway to design efficient catalysts for electro-refinery.

A study on serum pro-neurotensin (PNT), furin, and zinc alpha-2-glycoprotein (ZAG) levels in patients with acromegaly

PURPOSE

Acromegaly caused by growth hormone cell adenoma is commonly associated with abnormal glucolipid metabolism, which may result from changes in adipocytokine secretion. This study aims to investigate serum adipokine levels, including pro-neurotensin (PNT), furin, and zinc alpha-2-glycoprotein (ZAG), in acromegalic patients and the correlation between the levels of these three adipokines and GH levels and glucolipid metabolism indices.

METHODS

Sixty-eight acromegalic patients and 121 controls were included, and their clinical data were recorded from electronic medical record system. Serum PNT, furin and ZAG levels were measured by ELISA.

RESULTS

Serum PNT levels in acromegalic patients were significantly higher than controls (66.60 ± 12.36 vs. 46.68 ± 20.54 pg/ml, P < 0.001), and acromegaly was an independent influencing factor of PNT levels (P < 0.001). Moreover, subjects with the highest tertile of PNT levels had a close correlation with acromegaly (OR = 22.200, 95% CI 7.156 ~ 68.875, P < 0.001), even in Model 1 adjusted for gender and age and Model 2 adjusted for gender, age and BMI. Additionally, serum PNT levels were positively correlated with BMI (r = 0.220, P = 0.002) and triglycerides (TGs, r = 0.295, P < 0.001), and TGs were an independent influencing factor of serum PNT levels in acromegalic subjects (P < 0.001). Furthermore, serum PNT levels in obese acromegalic patients were significantly higher than those with normal BMI (P < 0.05). However, serum furin levels were lower in acromegalic patients than controls (0.184 ± 0.036 vs. 0.204 ± 0.061 ng/ml, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to demonstrate that acromegalic patients have increased serum PNT levels. Moreover, serum PNT plays a potential role in abnormal lipid metabolism of acromegalic patients.

Bone microarchitecture impairment in prolactinoma patients assessed by HR-pQCT

PURPOSE

Prolactinoma may reduce bone mineral density (BMD) and increase fracture risk, but its influence on bone microarchitecture remains to be elucidated. The purpose of this study is to evaluate bone microarchitecture parameters by high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) in prolactinoma patients.

METHODS

31 prolactinoma patients and 62 age- and sex-matched healthy controls in our center were included, and HR-pQCT was used to evaluate their bone microarchitecture at the radius and tibia. Z-scores for bone microarchitecture parameters were calculated based on previously published reference.

RESULTS

After adjusting for height and weight, prolactinoma patients had lower trabecular (- 0.011 mm, p = 0.005) and cortical thickness (- 0.116 mm, p = 0.008) and cortical area (- 6.0 mm2, p = 0.013) at radius, as well as lower trabecular (- 0.014 mm, p = 0.008) and cortical (- 0.122 mm, p = 0.022) thickness at tibia compared with the controls. Patients with higher prolactin level had more severe bone microarchitecture impairments. After adjusting for prolactin level and age, male patients had lower trabecular volumetric BMD (vBMD), trabecular number, trabecular thickness, and cortical porosity at radius, as well as lower trabecular vBMD, trabecular bone volume fraction, trabecular number, and cortical area, and higher trabecular separation at tibia compared with female patients. Z-score for radius vBMD was correlated with Z-score for areal BMD (aBMD) at lumbar and femoral neck, while Z-score for tibia vBMD was correlated with Z-score for lumbar aBMD, and some patients with vBMD Z-score below - 2.0 had aBMD Z-score within normal range.

CONCLUSION

Peripheral bone microarchitecture was impaired in prolactinoma patients, especially in patients with higher prolactin level. We compared the bone microarchitecture of prolactinoma patients and healthy controls by high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT), and found that many bone microarchitecture parameters were impaired among prolactinoma patients. Such impairment was more prominent among patients with higher prolactin level.

P-676 Comparison of hCG triggering versus hCG in combination with a GnRH agonist: a prospective randomized controlled trial

Study question

Does co-administration of GnRH agonist and Human chorionic gonadotropin(dual trigger) in PGT cycles improve the number of usable blastocysts per patient compared to hCG alone?

Summary answer

Using the dual trigger has no effect on the number of usable blastocysts undergoing the GnRH-ant protocol for PGT compared to triggering with hCG alone.

What is known already

HCG is used at the end of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation as a surrogate LH surge to induce final oocyte maturation. Recently, based on retrospective studies, the co-administration of GnRH agonist and hCG for final oocyte maturation (dual trigger) has been suggested to improve IVF outcome and pregnancy rates.

Study design, size, duration

A prospective, randomized, open-label controlled clinical trial (ChiCTR-ICR-2000031342), enrolled patients attending our university affiliated Infertility and IVF center (the Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, China) between August 2020 and June 2021. This sample size achieves with a power of 80%, at a significance level(α) of 0.05. A sample size of 160 patients, 80 randomized to each group, was chosen to allow for those 10% dropped out.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

The inclusion criteria for participating were: women age 20–35years, AMH≥1.2ng/ml and /or AFC ≥5, Couples with PGT-SR preimplantation genetic testing for chromosomal structural rearrangements (patients with abnormal chromosomal structure only in male or female), undergoing one of their first PGT cycle attempts. Patients fulfilled the criteria on the trigger day were randomly assigned to receive hCG or the dual trigger for final oocyte maturation. The primary outcome was the number of usable blastocysts per patient.

Main results and the role of chance

160 patients were included in the study. The age (29.1 years versus 29.4 years), BMI (22.1 kg/m2 versus 21.9 kg/m2) and the AMH (5.3 ng/ml versus 5.3 ng/ml) were comparable between the two groups. Based on PP analysis, there were no statistical difference in the number of eggs retrieved (17.1 versus 15.9), the MII oocytes (13.3 versus 12.5), the number of usable blastocysts per patient (5.0 versus 4.6) and top-quality blastocysts per patient (3.4 versus 3.2) between the two groups.

Limitations, reasons for caution

None

Wider implications of the findings

The enhanced response observed with the dual trigger might lead to better IVF outcomes were it used more widely.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR-ICR-2000031342

P-407 Pregnancy outcomes of different endometrial preparation in patients with a history of cesarean section

Study question

To investigate the efficacies of three cycle regimens in women receiving frozen embryo transfer with a history of cesarean section(CS).

Summary answer

In women undergoing frozen embryo transfer with a history of CS, hormone replacement therapy for endometrial preparation was associated with a higher early miscarriage rate.

What is known already

Rates of CS are rising worldwide. Many women with a history of a CS delivery conceived through assisted reproductive technology (ART) are in need of frozen embryo transfer (FET) for their second progeny. Various protocols for endometrium preparation have been used to provide an optimal uterine environment for the transfer of thawed embryos, but the evidence supporting the superiority of one protocol over another is insufficient.

Study design, size, duration

A retrospective cohort study of patients (N = 6,159) with a history of CS who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study from January 2014 to December 2019 at the CITIC-Xiangya Hospital of Reproduction and Genetics.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Reproductive outcomes of patients in the natural cycle （NC） (n = 4,306) versus hormone replacement therapy（HRT） (n = 1,007) versus gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist （GnRH-a） + HRT groups (n = 846) were compared. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate the potential confounding factors.

Main results and the role of chance

The unadjusted odds of the miscarriage rate of singleton pregnancies were also significantly higher in the hormone replacement therapy compared with the natural cycle (25.5% versus 20.4%, respectively). After adjusting for possible confounding factors, the early miscarriage rate and the miscarriage rate of singleton pregnancies remained significantly higher in the hormone replacement therapy than the natural cycle. The clinical pregnancy rates in the hormone replacement therapy, hormone replacement therapy and treatment with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist of women with a history of cesarean section was 48.8%, 48% and 47.1%, respectively, and the live birth rates were 37%, 34.1% and 35.7%, respectively.

Limitations, reasons for caution

This study is limited by its retrospective design. Furthermore, the detailed ultrasound information on uterine myometrial defects, complications related to CS and the number of previous CSs were unavailable in our study. Another limitation is that pregnancy-related complications and neonatal outcomes were not analyzed.

Wider implications of the findings

Our study could help physicians improve their understanding of the impact of different protocols on pregnancy outcomes in patients with a history of CS. Prospective randomized trials should be conducted to assess the efficacy of endometrial preparation protocols for FET in women with a history of CS.

Trial registration number

not applicable

P-060 Bubble-shaped Acrosome: Novel phenotype of Teratozoospermia Caused by Mutation in Actin-like 7A

Study question

What’s the etiology of severe teratozoospermia characteristic as bubble-shaped acrosome (BSA)?

Summary answer

Severe teratozoospermia characterized as BSA caused by mutation (c.1024G&gt;A) in actin-like 7A (ACTL7A).

What is known already

Teratozoospermia is a common cause of male infertility, defined by having a proportion of morphologically normal sperm at less than 4%. It exhibits aberrant sperm phenotypes in the head, neck, midpiece, and endpiece of sperm. Teratozoospermia with ephalic abnormalities are among the most severe and characteristic sperm defects. Some genetic factors are reported to be associated with ephalic abnormalities such as globozoospermia and macrozoospermia. However, other phenotypes and the causative genes of ephalic abnormalities, especially in acrosomal structure, and were largely unknown.

Study design, size, duration

Severe teratozoospermia were recruited from the Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya from Jan 2019 to Dec 2021.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Whole-exome sequencing analysis was used to analyze the genetic factor of man. An Actl7a-mutated mouse model was generated by CRISPER-Cas9. Transmission electron microscopy was used to detect the abnormality of ultrastructure during acrosome biogenesis. Immunostaining was used to analyze the localization of ACTL7A and PLCζ. Immunoprecipitation followed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was used to select the differentially expressed proteins. ICSI with calcium ionophore exposure was performed in couple with ACTL7A mutation.

Main results and the role of chance

We found a man with severe teratozoospermia characterized as BSA carrying a mutation (c.1024G&gt;A) in ACTL7A. Homozygous Actl7a-mutated male mice were sterile, and all of sperm showed acrosomal abnormalities. During acrosomal biogenesis, it detected the acrosome detach from the nuclear in Actl7a-mutated mice. Furthermore, mutant ACTL7A failed to attach to the acroplaxome and was discharged by cytoplasmic droplets, which led to the absence of ACTL7A in mature sperm. The mutant sperm failed to activate the oocyte, and PLCζ discharge accompanied by ACTL7A was observed, leading to total fertilization failure (TFF). Immunoprecipitation followed by LC-MS showed that several differentially expressed proteins participate in acrosome assembly and actin filament organization. Furthermore, assisted oocyte activation by calcium ionophore exposure successfully overcame TFF in a couple with an ACTL7A mutation.

Limitations, reasons for caution

More cases are needed to demonstrate the relationship between mutation and phenotype.

Wider implications of the findings

Our study defined a novel phenotype of the acrosomal abnormality characterized as BSA and revealed the underlying mechanism of mutation in ACTL7A and provided a genetic marker and a therapeutic option for male infertility.

Trial registration number

Not Applicable

Treatment dependent sodium-rich Prussian blue as a cathode material for sodium-ion batteries

In the preparation of Prussian blue analogs (PBAs), Na⁺ loss and Fe²⁺ oxidation take place when washing with water. Sodium-rich PBAs were prepared with sodium ascorbate aqueous solution as the washing solution, which can suppress the Na⁺ loss and Fe²⁺ oxidation. As the cathode of sodium-ion batteries, it exhibited excellent electrochemical performance.

Vibrio metschnikovii, a Potential Pathogen in Freshwater-Cultured Hybrid Sturgeon

Simple Summary

In an era of shrinking stocks and intensive fisheries production, pathogenic microorganisms are a serious threat to fish health. This study confirms that Vibrio metschnikovii—a pathogen mainly found in aquatic environments—was the pathogenic bacterium causing disease in hybrid sturgeon. The authors reveal the hazard of V. metschnikovii to hybrid sturgeon and the potential risks to the sturgeon farming industry.

Abstract

In July 2021, a disease with a high mortality rate broke out in freshwater cultured hybrid sturgeon in Zhengzhou, Henan Province. A dominant strain, H-701, was isolated from diseased fish; physiological changes in diseased fish were investigated and molecular identification, biochemical characterization, and pathogenicity and drug sensitivity tests of H-701 were performed. The 16S rRNA gene sequence of H-701 was 99.86% homologous with that of Vibrio metschnikovii in GenBank. The 50% lethal dose of H-701 was 3.72 ± 0.929 × 10⁴ CFU/g fish weight. The proportion of monocytes, neutrophils, and eosinophils in the blood of diseased sturgeon increased significantly, whereas the proportion of lymphocytes decreased. In diseased fish, the serum levels of total protein, albumin, globulin, and alkaline phosphatase decreased significantly, and those of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and complement C3 increased significantly. There were obvious pathological changes in several tissues of the diseased fish. H-701 was sensitive to antibiotics such as florfenicol, enrofloxacin, and doxycycline. This study not only demonstrated that V. metschnikovii was the cause of death of a large number of hybrid sturgeon but also revealed its potential risk in hybrid sturgeon aquaculture. The results provide a basis for the diagnosis and prevention of this disease.

Pregnancy outcome after in-vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection in women with congenital uterus didelphys

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the pregnancy and obstetric outcomes of patients with congenital uterus didelphys who achieved clinical pregnancy after in-vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

METHODS

This was a retrospective matched-cohort study of 83 infertile patients with uterus didelphys who underwent IVF/ICSI and achieved clinical pregnancy from January 2005 to December 2018 at our center. For each patient in the study group, three control patients with normal uterine morphology who underwent IVF/ICSI in 2018 were selected randomly. Patients in the two groups were matched for number of gestational sacs, maternal age, infertility type, cause of infertility, fertilization method, endometrial thickness 1 day before embryo transfer and number of embryos transferred. The classification of congenital uterine anomalies was based on the American Fertility Society system (1988). The pregnancy and obstetric outcomes of the didelphic and control groups were compared separately for singleton and twin pregnancies, and for all pregnancies combined.

RESULTS

In singleton pregnancies, women with uterus didelphys had increased risk of preterm birth (odds ratio (OR), 4.68; rate difference (RD), 0.14; P < 0.001), Cesarean section (OR, 2.80; RD, 0.17; P = 0.016) and birth weight < 2500 g (OR, 4.06; RD, 0.10; P = 0.017) compared to women with normal uterine morphology. In twin pregnancies, the presence of uterus didelphys was associated with increased risk of preterm delivery (OR, 4.79; RD, 0.37; P = 0.006), perinatal mortality (OR, 3.16; RD, 0.19; P = 0.043) and birth weight < 2500 g (OR, 9.57; RD, 0.35; P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of uterus didelphys was associated with significantly increased risk of some adverse pregnancy outcomes compared to pregnancies with normal uterine morphology in women who underwent IVF/ICSI. A twin pregnancy in women with uterus didelphys was associated with worse perinatal outcome. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

P–405 The diagnosis and management of heterotopic intramural pregnancy after in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer: six-case series

Study question

What are the ultrasonic characteristics of heterotopic intramural pregnancy (HIMP)? How to manage and what about the clinical outcomes of HIMP?

Summary answer

Expectant management may be a considerable choice for an non-viable intramural pregnancy (IMP). Most intrauteine pregnancies (IUPs) of HIMPs seems to have good outcomes.

What is known already

Heterotopic pregnancy (HP) post in vitro fertilization is very rare in infertility women, with a prevalence of 0.04%. HIMP is one of the rarest types of HP, where one gestational sac (GS) is embedded within the endometrial cavity and the other one GS is implanted in the myometriun. HIMP was firstly and only described by Jiangtao Lyu et al. in 2018. So far, little is known about its natural history and ultrasonic imaging characteristics. And there is no consensus regarding the ultrasound diagnosis and clinical management for HIMP due to few evidence-based medicine records.

Study design, size, duration

A retrospective observational study was conducted of 6 infertile women who obtained a HIMP through in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) between January 2009 and December 2019 at our reproductive centre.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Six infertile women conceived a HIMP via IVF-ET were retrospectively retrieved between January 2009 and December 2019 at the Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya (Changsha City, China). The ultrasound diagnosis, clinical management and pregnancy outcome of these cases were analysed. The ultrasound findings, therapeutic methods and clinical outcomes were obtained from the hospital’s electronic medical records. This study was approved by the local ethics committee. Main results and the role of chance: Six women with HIMPs were retrospectively analysed. Among them, 5 cases were revealed by ultrasound scans; however, one case was misdiagnosed. The diagnostic accuracy was 83.3%.

Five cases of HIMP were diagnosed at initial scan. The diagnostic time ranged from 22 to 38 days after ET (5 + 6 - 7 + 6 weeks). Among them, an intramural GS was observed in all 5 cases; embryonic cardiac activity (ECA) was detected in one case by the followed-up scans; there was a yolk sac only in one case; an empty GS was noted in 3 cases. An IUP was revealed in all 6 cases, and ECA was observed in 5 cases at the initial diagnosis or later. A GS with a yolk sac only was showed in one case.

Among the 5 diagnostic women, one case with a live IMP was treated with laparoscopy at 8 + 1 weeks, 4 cases were managed expectantly. Of them, the IUPs of 4 cases delivered live infants and one case managed expectantly experienced miscarriage. In one case, IMP was misdiagnosed as interstitial pregnancy at day–28 scan. Exploratory laparoscopy and foetal reduction were performed at 8 + 2 weeks. Laparoscopy confirmed an IMP and the retained IUP delivered a live infant.

Limitations, reasons for caution

The case numbers are too few to draw any objective conclusions, because of the extreme rarity of HIMP. Thus, a further multi-centre larger prospective study will help to confidently illustrate the clinical significance, and effective and appropriate management method for women with a HIMP.

Wider implications of the findings: Our study showed that HIMP may not be as rare as previously reported. Increased awareness of this condition, better comprehension of the diagnostic criteria and improved resolution of ultrasound equipment may result in more frequent and accurate detection of HIMP, which will be helpful for early management to preserve IUP.

Trial registration number

Not applicable.

P–568 Homozygous Pathogenic Variants in ACTL9 Cause Fertilization Failure and Male Infertility in Human and Mouse

Study question

What are the other male factors that cause total fertilization failure (TFF) excepting for variants in PLCZ1?

Summary answer

Homozygous variants in ACTL9 (actin like 9) cause abnormal localization of PLCζ in a loosened perinuclear theca (PT) structure and leads to TFF.

What is known already

In previous studies, investigators have reported that the female factors in TFF after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) include pathogenic variants in WEE2, TLE6, and TUBB8, whereas for male factors, pathogenic variants in PLCZ1 were reported to be the primary cause of TFF, which account for approximately 30% of couples with male factors in TFF excluding globozoospermia. Most recently, it was reported that pathogenic variants in ACTL7A led to reduced expression and abnormal localization of PLCζ, thereby identifying this genetic variant as a potential cause of TFF.

Study design, size, duration

Fifty-four infertile couples with TFF or poor fertilization (fertilization rate of &lt; 20%) at the Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya during January 2014 to June 2020 were recruited into this study.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Male factors were identified in (MOAT). WES analysis was used to analyze the genetic factors of individuals with male factors. Sperm morphological study was conducted by H&E staining and TEM. Immunostaining of PLCζ was used to analyze the status of sperm-borne activation factor. A knock-in mouse model was generated by CRISPER-Cas9 technology. Sperm from homozygous Actl9 variant mice were analyzed by TEM and ICSI. ICSI with AOA was performed in couples with ACTL9 variants.

Main results and the role of chance

A total of 54 couples with TFF or poor fertilization were screened, with 21 couples determined to have a male infertility factor by MOAT. Whole-exome sequencing of these 21 male individuals identified three homozygous pathogenic variants in ACTL9 in three individuals. ACTL9 variations led to abnormal ultrastructure of the PT, with PLCζ absent in the head and present in the neck of the mutant sperm, which contributed to failed normal calcium oscillations in oocytes and subsequent TFF. The key roles of ACTL9 in the PT structure and TFF after ICSI were further confirmed in Actl9-mutated mouse model. Furthermore, assisted oocyte activation by calcium ionophore exposure successfully overcame TFF and achieved live births in a couple with an ACTL9 variant.

Limitations, reasons for caution

The mechanism of how ACTL9 regulate PLCζ remains unknown.

Wider implications of the findings: It provided a genetic marker and a therapeutic option for individuals who have undergone ICSI without successful fertilization.

Trial registration number

not applioable

Serum glypican4 and glycosylphosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase D levels are associated with adipose tissue insulin resistance in obese subjects with different glucose metabolism status

OBJECTIVES

Glypican4 (GPC4) is a novel adipokine associated with obesity and insulin resistance. GPC4 was cleaved by the glycosylphosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase D (GPLD1) in an anchored site of the glycosylphosphatidylinositol, and then was released into the extracellular environment. Herein, we investigated the changes of serum GPC4 and GPLD1 levels in obese subjects with different glucose metabolism status and their relationship with adipose tissue insulin resistance index (Adipo-IR) in Chinese north populations.

METHODS

A total of 221 obese subjects and 37 normal controls (NC) were recruited in this study. Obese subjects were divided into normal insulin (NI) group, hyperinsulinemia (HI) group, impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) group, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) group. Serum GPC4, GPLD1, and adiponectin were determined by commercially available ELISA kits.

RESULTS

Serum GPC4 levels in the HI, IGT, and DM groups were significantly higher than those in the NC and NI groups (2.27 ± 0.58 ng/mL, 2.21 ± 0.60 ng/mL, 2.49 ± 0.67 ng/mL vs. 1.70 ± 0.33 ng/mL, 1.93 ± 0.34 ng/mL, P < 0.05). GPC4 was positively correlated with GPLD1, which was the most important influencing factor of GPC4. Adipo-IR was independently and positively associated with serum GPC4 and GPLD1. For GPC4, after adjustment for confounders, the risk of adipose tissue insulin resistance in subjects with the highest tertile was 2.974-fold that of those with the lowest tertile (OR = 2.974, P = 0.013). For GPLD1, before adjustment for lipids, the increased probability still existed (Model 2, OR = 3.568, P = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

GPC4 is an adipokine associated with adipose tissue insulin resistance, and its activity may be regulated by GPLD1. GPC4 may be a marker for adipose tissue insulin resistance in Chinese north obese populations.

Electron cloud migration effect-induced lithiophobicity/lithiophilicity transformation for dendrite-free lithium metal anodes

Enabling stable lithium metal anodes is significant for developing electrochemical energy storage systems with higher energy density. However, safety hazards, infinite volume expansion, and low coulombic efficiency (CE) of lithium metal anodes always hinder their practical application. Herein, a nano-thickness lithiophilic Cu-Ni bimetallic coating was synthesized to prepare dendrite-free lithium metal anodes. The electron cloud migration effect caused by the different electronegativities of Cu and Ni can achieve lithiophobicity/lithiophilicity transformation and thus promote uniform Li deposition/dissolution. By changing the ratio of Cu to Ni, the electron cloud migration can be reasonably adjusted for obtaining dendrite-free lithium anodes. As a result, the as-obtained Cu-Ni bimetallic coating is able to guarantee dendrite-free lithium metal anodes with a stable long cycling time (>1500 hours) and a small voltage hysteresis (∼26 mV). In addition, full cells with LiFePO₄ as a cathode present excellent cycling stability and high coulombic efficiency. This work can open a new avenue for optimizing the lithiophilicity of materials and realizing dendrite-free anodes.

Quantifying blood-brain-barrier leakage using a combination of evans blue and high molecular weight FITC-Dextran

BACKGROUND

Evans blue (EB) is the most widely used tracer to assess BBB leakage. However, a well-established method to obtain visualized and quantitative results of EB extravasation is presently unavailable.

NEW METHOD

We reported a novel method to quantify BBB leakage by combining EB and high molecular weight FITC-Dextran (2000 kDa). EB was used for a long circulation duration (60 min) to detect BBB leakage. FITC-Dextran was used for a short circulation duration (10 min) to outline vascular contours. Confocal microscope imaging was used to obtain visualized images of BBB leakage. The result of dividing integrated optical density of EB by vascular areas outlined by FITC-Dextran was treated as the quantification of BBB leakage.

RESULTS

This method proved workable in quantifying BBB leakage of specific regions in lipopolysaccharide-induced BBB disruption mice and apoE^-/- mice. Sections processed with this method enabled further immunofluorescence staining. Through combining the results of EB extravasation and immunofluorescence staining, the colocalization of specific proteins and BBB disruption was achieved.

COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS

Colorimetric and spectrophotometric methods provide us with quantitative results of EB extravasation but fail to locate the specific regions. Fluorescence microscopy imaging can locate specific regions of EB extravasation but a well-established quantitative method is presently unavailable. Our method combines advantages of above two classic methods, providing us with visualized and quantitative information of BBB leakage based on EB extravasation in specific cerebral regions.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed method proved powerful in quantifying BBB leakage of specific regions, which may benefit studies regarding BBB disruption.

Pineal Region Gliomas: A Single-Center Experience with 25 Cases

BACKGROUND

Pineal region glioma is a rare systematically reported tumor in the literatures, and little is known about its behavior, development, and best treatment strategies because of its complex anatomical relationship and rarity.

OBJECTIVE

We reviewed the outcomes of patients with pineal region gliomas in West China hospital in the past 5 years and searched the literature to add more information. As a result, key factors related to prognosis are identified.

METHODS

Twenty-five patients with pineal region gliomas were selected and information was collected about detailed medical history, imaging data, treatment methods, pathologic results, and latest neurosurgical radiologic progress during follow-up.

RESULTS

Pilocytic astrocytomas (20%) and glioblastomas (24%) were the most common pathologic subtypes. Twenty-three patients underwent open surgery, 3 Gamma Knife radiosurgery, and 4 whole-brain radiation therapy. Chemotherapy was applied to 3 patients. Low-grade gliomas tended to have a better prognosis than did high-grade. Karnofsky Performance Status at admission (≤60) was intimately associated with prognosis for low-grade gliomas. As for high-grade gliomas, patients whose age at admission was ≤30 years had a better prognosis than did older patients (＞30 years). However, whatever the grade, there was no overall survival difference as to gender, gross total resection versus not gross total resection, preoperative maximal tumor diameter (≤4 vs. ＞4 cm), and time since first symptoms (≤30 vs. ＞30 days), and radiation therapy versus no radiation therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Open surgery is the first-line strategy for pineal region gliomas with tolerable mortality and disability rate. Radiosurgery and chemotherapy can be applied as adjuvant or alternative methods when surgery is contraindicated.

Effect of insulin-like growth factor-1 on promoting healing of skin ulcers in diabetic rats

To investigate the effect of exogenous insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) on the healing of skin ulcers in diabetic rats, male Sprague Dawleys (SD) rats with back skin ulcers were selected and divided into control group, model group and IGF-1 treatment group which received different doses of IGF-1 (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0mg/L). The results showed that the healing speed of the skin ulcers was significantly affected by IGF-1, which reduced the size of wound (P less than 0.05). The expression of MMP-9 was enhanced while the expression of TIMP-1 was decreased in diabetic rats with skin ulcers. The IGF-1 treatment helped to re¬store the normal expression of both MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in diabetic rats with skin ulcers, and diabetic skin ulcers in the 1.5 mg/L IGF-1 group showed the best healing. Histological examination showed that after 20 days, fibroblasts in the IGF-1 experimental group with an appropriate concentration increased and the numbers of fibroblasts and capillaries were significantly higher than those of the other groups. Moreover, there were obvious wound surface contractions and re-epithelialization, and the new epithelium moved to the center of the wound faster. Therefore, it is concluded that an appropriate concentration of IGF-1 can significantly promote the healing of skin ulcers in diabetic rats.

The Efficacy of Gamma Knife Radiosurgery for Cavernous Malformations: A Meta-Analysis and Review

OBJECTIVE

This meta-analysis is to evaluate the clinical efficacy of gamma knife radiosurgery (GKRS) for treating cavernous malformations.

METHODS

PubMed, Ovid Embase, and Ovid Medline electronic databases were searched. The primary outcome is hemorrhage rate and this meta-analysis is performed.

RESULTS

Nine studies are included in this meta-analysis. The overall risk ratio (RR) of hemorrhage rate of pre-GKRS and post-GKRS is 6.08 (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.04-7.35). The overall RR is 3.03 (95% CI, 2.65-4.11) between the hemorrhage rate of pre-GKRS and the first 2 years postradiosurgery, and the overall RR is 12.13 (95% CI, 1.73-85.07) comparing pre-GKRS with 2 years after GKRS. There is no significant difference of the hemorrhage rate between the first 2 years postradiosurgery and 2 years after GKRS (RR = 2.81; 95% CI, 0.20-13.42). The neurologic deficiency is the most common radiosurgery-related complication.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with cerebral cavernous malformations, especially ones that were deep seated and surgically inaccessible, seem to benefit from GKRS owing to a reduction of annual hemorrhage rate in the first 2 years and 2 years after, despite several cases that suffer from negative side effects of radiation.

[Effects of sural nerve nutrition vess els-supported flap for reconstruction of distal lower leg and ankle soft tissue defects]

Objective: To observe the effects of sural nerve nutrition vessels-supported flap for reconstruction of distal lower leg and ankle soft tissue defects. Methods: From June 2014 to June 2017, 37 patients with calf distal and ankle soft tissue defect were repaired with sural nerve nutrition vessels-supported flap, of them 12 cases with calf distal soft tissue defect wounds and 25 cases with ankle soft tissue defect wounds.The scope of flaps was 9 cm×4 cm to 18 cm×9 cm, anti-infection, anti-freezing and dressing treatments were carried out after operation.The results of two-point discrimination among reexamination were recorded. Results: All the flaps survived without ulcer and effusion, only 1 flap for reconstruction of medial malleolus swelled and deactivated at the beginning while it recovered with proper dressings.During the follow-up periods, all the flaps kept favorable feelings, aspects and functions, and the two-point discrimination was 5 to 15 mm [averaged (11.2±1.7) mm]. Conclusion: Sural nerve nutrition vessels-supported flap brings significant effects with excellent safety and reliability in repairing calf and ankle soft tissue defects.

Hierarchical Mn₂O₃ Microspheres In-Situ Coated with Carbon for Supercapacitors with Highly Enhanced Performances

Porous Mn₂O₃ microspheres have been synthesized and in-situ coated with amorphous carbon to form hierarchical C@Mn₂O₃ microspheres by first producing MnCO₃ microspheres in solvothermal reactions, and then annealing at 500 °C. The self-assembly growth of MnCO₃ microspheres can generate hollow structures inside each of the particles, which can act as micro-reservoirs to store biomass-glycerol for generating amorphous carbon onto the surfaces of Mn₂O₃ nanorods consisting of microspheres. The C@Mn₂O₃ microspheres, prepared at 500 °C, exhibit highly enhanced pseudocapacitive performances when compared to the particles after annealed at 400 °C and 600 °C. Specifically, the C@Mn₂O₃ microspheres prepared at 500 °C show high specific capacitances of 383.87 F g⁻¹ at current density of 0.5 A g⁻¹, and excellent cycling stability of 90.47% of its initial value after cycling for 5000 times. The asymmetric supercapacitors assembled with C@Mn₂O₃ microspheres after annealed at 500 °C and activated carbon (AC) show an energy density of up to 77.8 Wh kg⁻¹ at power density of 500.00 W kg⁻¹, and a maximum power density of 20.14 kW kg⁻¹ at energy density of 46.8 Wh kg⁻¹. We can attribute the enhanced electrochemical performances of the materials to their three-dimensional (3D) hierarchical structure in-situ coated with carbon.

[Acute toxicity and bio-distribution of silver nitrate and nano-silver with different particle diameters in rats]

Objective: To explore the acute toxic effect and the cumulative target organ of silver nitrate and nano-silver with two different particle diameters in rats. Methods: Thirty-six adult SD rats were divided into small particle size nano-silver group (SNS), large particle size nano-silver group (LNS), silver nitrate group (SN), and control group (C) according to the random number table, with 9 rats in each group. The rats of the four groups were respectively injected with 10 mg/mL nano-silver solution (particle diameter of 20 nm, prepared by saline) in silver dose of 30 mg/kg by tail vein for once, 10 mg/mL nano-silver solution (particle diameter of 100 nm, prepared by saline) in silver dose of 30 mg/kg, 1.67 mg/mL silver nitrate solution (prepared by glucose solution) in silver dose of 3 mg/kg, and 30 mg/mL polyvinylpyrrolidone solution (prepared by saline) in dose of 90 mg/kg. (1) Toxicity test. The general observation was performed within 14 days after injection, and the deviation between value of body mass before injection and each of that on post injection day (PID) 1, 7, and 14 were respectively recorded. On PID 1, 7, and 14, 3 rats of each group were harvested for determination of serum content of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total protein, and albumin by fully automatic biochemical analyzer. Then the rats were sacrificed immediately, and heart tissue, liver tissue, spleen tissue, lung tissue, kidney tissue, and brain tissue were collected to calculate the organ coefficient. Organ samples with obvious changes in organ coefficient were collected for histopathological observation by HE staining, with 3 samples in each group at each time point. (2) Bio-distribution. The specimens of heart, liver, spleen, lung, and kidney of rats from groups SNS, LNS, and SN were collected for detection of silver content by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, with 3 samples in each group at each time point. Data were processed with analysis of variance of factorial design, LSD test, and Dunnett's T3 test. Results: (1) The general condition of rats in groups C and SN after injection were normal. The state of rats of groups SNS and LNS was poor with black secretion in the eye and other phenomena on PID 1, which recovered from PID 3 on. (2) The deviations between values of body mass before injection and that on PID 14 in rats of groups LNS and SN were significantly decreased as compared with deviation of group C (with P values below 0.01), but deviation of group SNS was not significantly changed (P>0.05). The deviations between values of body mass before injection and each of that on PID 1 and 7 in rats in the other three groups were similar to those in group C (with P values above 0.05). (3) Compared with those in group C, the serum content of total protein of rats in group SN on PID 1 was significantly decreased, and liver coefficient was significantly increased (with P values below 0.05). On PID 1, the serum content of ALT of rats in group LNS was (61.0±8.7) U/L, which was significantly higher than that in group C [(40.0±4.6) U/L, P<0.01]. Compared with those in group C [(126.0±3.5) U/L and 4.05±0.23], the serum content of AST of rats in groups SNS and LNS on PID 1[(249.7±107.2) and (237.0±38.3) U/L] was significantly increased, and liver coefficients (3.50±0.38 and 3.31±0.07) were significantly decreased, with P values below 0.05. Compared with those in group C [(69.2±4.8) U/L and 4.32±0.39], the serum content of AST of rats in groups SNS and LNS on PID 7 [(181.0±51.5) and (167.7±16.5) U/L] was also significantly increased, and liver coefficients (3.55±0.18 and 3.62±0.21) were also significantly decreased, P<0.05 or P<0.01. On PID 14, the four liver biochemical indexes in serum and all organ coefficients of rats in the other three groups were similar to those in group C (with P values above 0.05). (4) The liver of rats in group SN had slight degeneration on PID 1, the liver cells around the central vein of liver of rats in group SNS had slight degeneration on PID 7, and the liver cells got severely eosinophilic degeneration in liver of rats in group LNS on PID 7. There was no significant pathological change in the liver of rats in each group at the rest time points. (5) The silver content of lung and kidney in rats of group SNS on PID 1, that of spleen and kidney in rats of group LNS on PID 1, and that of heart and kidney in rats of groups LNS and SNS on PID 7 was significantly less than that of group SN (with P values below 0.05). The silver content of liver and spleen in rats of group SNS on PID 14 was significantly more than that of group SN (with P values below 0.05). Compared with that of group SN, the silver content of lung on PID 1 and liver on PID 7 in rats of group LNS was significantly increased (with P values below 0.05). On PID 14, there was no significant change in the silver content of all organs of rats between group SN and group LNS (with P values above 0.05). The silver content of heart, lung, and kidney on PID 1 and heart on PID 7 in rats of group LNS was significantly more than that of group SNS (with P values below 0.05). On PID 14, the silver content of each organ of rats in group SNS was close to that in group LNS (with P values above 0.05). Conclusions: Silver nitrate and nano-silver with two different particle diameters have a short acute toxic effect on the liver of rats, and the liver has certain ability of self-healing. Nano-silver is mainly accumulated in the liver. The distribution of nano-silver with large particle diameter in organs is more widely than that of nano-silver with small particle diameter.

Whole-exome sequencing identifies a homozygous donor splice-site mutation in STAG3 that causes primary ovarian insufficiency

Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is the depletion or loss of normal ovarian function, which cause infertility in women before the age of 40 years. Two homozygous germline truncation mutations in STAG3 gene had been reported to causes POI in consanguineous families. Here, we aimed to identify the genetic cause of POI in 2 affected sisters manifested with primary amenorrhea and partial development of secondary sexual characters with normal range of height of a consanguineous Han Chinese family. Whole-exome and Sanger sequencing identified a homozygous donor splice-site mutation (NM_012447.2: c.1573+5G>A) in the STAG3 gene. RT-PCR revealed that the mutation causes loss of wild-type donor splice-site which leads to aberrant splicing of STAG3 mRNA and consecutive formation of STAG3 alternative transcript (p.Leu490Thrfs*10) . This is the first report of splice-site mutation of STAG3 gene causes POI in 2 Han Chinese patients.

A study of cognitive function in treatment-refractory obsessive-compulsive disorder treated with capsulotomy

OBJECTIVE Anterior capsulotomy (AC) is sometimes used as a last resort for treatment-refractory obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Previous studies assessing neuropsychological outcomes in patients with OCD have identified several forms of cognitive dysfunction that are associated with the disease, but few have focused on changes in cognitive function in OCD patients who have undergone surgery. In the present study, the authors investigated the effects of AC on the cognitive function of patients with treatment-refractory OCD. METHODS The authors selected 14 patients with treatment-refractory OCD who had undergone bilateral AC between 2007 and 2013, 14 nonsurgically treated OCD patients, and 14 healthy control subjects for this study. The 3 groups were matched for sex, age, and education. Several neuropsychological tests, including Similarities and Block Design, which are subsets of the Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence; Immediate and Delayed Logical Memory and Immediate and Delayed Visual Reproduction, which are subsets of the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised; and Corrects, Categories, Perseverative Errors, Nonperseverative Errors, and Errors, subtests of the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, were conducted in all 42 subjects at baseline and after AC, after nonsurgical treatment, or at 6-month intervals, as appropriate. The Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) was used to measure OCD symptoms in all 28 OCD patients. RESULTS The Y-BOCS scores decreased significantly in both OCD groups during the 12-month follow-up period. Surgical patients showed higher levels of improvement in verbal memory, visual memory, visuospatial skills, and executive function than the nonsurgically treated OCD patients. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study suggest that AC not only reduces OCD symptoms but also attenuates moderate cognitive deficits.

Mps1 kinase regulates tumor cell viability via its novel role in mitochondria

Targeting mitotic kinase monopolar spindle 1 (Mps1) for tumor therapy has been investigated for many years. Although it was suggested that Mps1 regulates cell viability through its role in spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), the underlying mechanism remains less defined. In an endeavor to reveal the role of high levels of mitotic kinase Mps1 in the development of colon cancer, we unexpectedly found the amount of Mps1 required for cell survival far exceeds that of maintaining SAC in aneuploid cell lines. This suggests that other functions of Mps1 besides SAC are also employed to maintain cell viability. Mps1 regulates cell viability independent of its role in cytokinesis as the genetic depletion of Mps1 spanning from metaphase to cytokinesis affects neither cytokinesis nor cell viability. Furthermore, we developed a single-cycle inhibition strategy that allows disruption of Mps1 function only in mitosis. Using this strategy, we found the functions of Mps1 in mitosis are vital for cell viability as short-term treatment of mitotic colon cancer cell lines with Mps1 inhibitors is sufficient to cause cell death. Interestingly, Mps1 inhibitors synergize with microtubule depolymerizing drug in promoting polyploidization but not in tumor cell growth inhibition. Finally, we found that Mps1 can be recruited to mitochondria by binding to voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1) via its C-terminal fragment. This interaction is essential for cell viability as Mps1 mutant defective for interaction fails to main cell viability, causing the release of cytochrome c. Meanwhile, deprivation of VDAC1 can make tumor cells refractory to loss of Mps1-induced cell death. Collectively, we conclude that inhibition of the novel mitochondrial function Mps1 is sufficient to kill tumor cells.

[Effect of astaxanthin on vascular smooth muscle cells proliferation induced by platelet derived growth factor-BB]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of astaxanthin (AST) on vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) proliferation in vitro induced by platelet derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB), and to explore its possible mechanism.

METHODS

There were 4 groups in this experiment: blank control group, PDGF-BB group, PDGF-BB+ AST group, AST group. After the cells received different intervention for the indicated time, the cell growth was determined by Trypan blue staining; cell proliferation was demonstrated using CCK-8 kit; the cell cycle progression was analyzed by flow cytometry, and the mRNA expression of cyclin D1, cyclin E, CDK6, CDK4, cyclin kinase inhibitor protein P21 was determined by real-time PCR; reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was detected using a Microplate reader; the total and phosphorylated forms of ERK1/2, p38 MAPK, JNK was observed in AST pretreated VSMCs in 5, 10 and 15 min after PDGF-BB treatment by Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

(1) Cell viability: AST and/or PDGF-BB did not induce VSMCs necrosis with the different concentration compared with untreated cells (P>0.05). (2) Cell proliferation: PDGF-BB induced VSMCs proliferation (2.5±0.3 vs 1, P<0.01), while AST reversed the effect in a concentration-dependent manner when co-treated with PDGF-BB (all P<0.01); Cell cycle: Flow cytometry analysis showed that AST at a dose of 25 μmol/L reduced the percentages of cells in S phase and increased the G0/G1 populations in PDGF-BB-stimulated VSMCs; mRNA expression of the check-point proteins: Real Time PCR results demonstrated that, compared with the control group, the mRNA expression of CDK6, CDK4, cyclin D1, cyclin E in the PDGF-BB group was higher (4.20±0.30, 2.90±0.18, 3.50±0.30, 2.70±0.11 vs 1, all P<0.01), while p21 mRNA expression was lower (0.52±0.03 vs 1, P<0.01), while AST reversed these effects when co-treated with PDGF-BB. (3) ROS expression: compared with the control group, ROS level was significantly higher in the PDGF-BB group (2.10±0.09 vs 1, P<0.01), while AST reversed the effect in a concentration-dependent manner when co-treated with PDGF-BB (all P<0.01). (4) Signaling pathway: AST blocking the proliferation of VSMCs induced by PDGF-BB was related to suppress ERK1/2, p-p38 MAPK signaling pathway, but little effect to JNK. Conclutions: These results demonstrate that AST can block the proliferation and migration of VSMCs through G0/G1 to S phase of the cell cycle arrest. Further study indicates that AST suppress PDGF-BB-induced VSMCs proliferation is associated with an inhibition of ROS generation and ERK1/2, p-p38 MAPK signal pathways.

Mutations of glucocerebrosidase gene and susceptibility to Parkinson's disease: An updated meta-analysis in a European population

This meta-analysis aims to investigate the association between mutations of glucocerebrosidase (GBA) gene and susceptibility to Parkinson's disease (PD) in a European population. Several electronic databases were extensively searched. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the association. In total, fourteen published papers screening L444P, N370S and other GBA variants were identified. The GBA mutations were significantly associated with PD in the European population. Subgroup analysis stratified by the age of onset (AAO) revealed that the association between GBA mutations and PD existed in the patients with age at onset ⩽50 years but did not exist in the patients with age at onset >50 years. Furthermore, the associations between N370S, and L444P with PD were also analyzed to explore the roles of the two most frequent GBA mutations in the development of PD. The results showed that significant associations between N370S, and L444P with PD were observed, respectively. Overall, the study supported that GBA mutations were a risk factor for PD in the European population. Patients with early-onset were more likely to carry GBA mutations than those with late-onset. Moreover, both L444P and N370S were associated with increased PD risk.

Time and temperature dependent multiple hierarchical NiCo2O4 for high-performance supercapacitors

The time and temperature dependent multiple hierarchical NiCo₂O₄ constructed of nanosheets covered with nanowires shows excellent electrochemical performance.

Expression of VEGF and its effect on cell proliferation in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to investigate the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the serum of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and the effect of VEGF on cell proliferation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Serum VEGF levels in 12 CML patients (7 chronic phase, 5 blast crisis phase) were measured using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). VEGF expression was interfered by transfection of K562 cells. VEGF mRNA levels in transfected K562 cells were determined using RT-PCR and the effect of VEGF on the proliferation of transfected K562 cells was investigated.

RESULTS

VEGF expression levels were significantly higher in CML patients than normal controls and significantly increased during blast crisis phase than during chronic phase. Compared to controls, the proliferation of the K562 cells was suppressed when VEGF expression was inhibited. However, the inhibited proliferation of K562 cells after gene silencing of VEGF was partially abolished after introducing exogenous VEGF into the cells.

CONCLUSIONS

VEGF plays an important role in the initiation and development of CML and monitoring serum VEGF assists guiding the treatment and predicting the prognosis of CML.

Porous and single crystalline Co3O4 nanospheres for pseudocapacitors with enhanced performance

Co₃O₄ supercrystals for pseudocapacitors: the stepwise splitting of nanocuboids can generate porous and single crystalline Co₃O₄ hemispheres with highly enhanced performances in storing charges.

Effect of radiation dose on the outcomes of gamma knife treatment for trigeminal neuralgia: a multi-factor analysis

AIM

To analyze the effect of different radiation variables on the outcomes of treatment for trigeminal neuralgia (TN).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seventy-three patients with refractory TN were treated with a maximum dose of 75-90 Gy using either one (n = 41) or two (n = 32) isocenters and were intensively followed up. The integrated dose delivered to the trigeminal nerve root within the prepontine cistern and the nerve root volume was calculated using the Gamma-Plan system. Relationships between the clinical outcomes and radiation variables were statistically analyzed using a combination of Fisher's exact test and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

At their last follow up, 21 patients (28.8%), 22 patients (30.1%), 19 patients (26%), 6 patients (8.2%), and 5 patients (6.8%) had Grade I-V pain outcomes, respectively, and the average mean dose delivered to the trigeminal nerve root, average integrated dose (mJ) and nerve root volume in prepontine cistern were 45.29 Gy, 4,26 mJ, and 98.47 mm 3 , respectively. The pain relief rate was not significantly improved by a higher amount of integrated dose received by the trigeminal nerve root in prepontine cistern, however, incidence of trigeminal nerve toxicity was increased (P = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Our limited results suggested that a higher integrated dose might increase the incidence of trigeminal nerve toxicity with no significant benefits in pain relief when the maximal doses were within 75-90 Gy. The protocol for increasing radiation variables such as longer nerve exposure length and higher maximal dose is not recommended as a routine approach and more randomized studies with large number of cases would be required to verify the best treatment strategy of gamma knife radiosurgery for TN.