N-n-butyl haloperidol iodide mitigates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury through activation of SIRT1-Nrf2 signaling loop

ABSTRACT

N-n-butyl haloperidol iodide (F2), a derivative of haloperidol developed by our group, exhibits potent antioxidative properties and confers protection against cardiac ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. The protective mechanisms by which F2 ameliorates I/R injury remain obscure. The activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a key transcription factor transactivating many antioxidative genes, also attenuates I/R-induced myocardial damage. The present study investigated whether the cardioprotective effect of F2 depends on Nrf2 using a mouse heart I/R model. F2 (0.1, 0.2 or 0.4 mg/kg) or vehicle was intravenously injected to mice 5 min before reperfusion. Systemic administration of 0.4 mg/kg F2 led to a significant reduction in I/R injury, which was accompanied by enhanced activation of Nrf2 signaling. The cardioprotection conferred by F2 was largely abrogated in Nrf2-deficient mice. Importantly, we found F2-induced activation of Nrf2 is SIRT1-dependent, as pharmacologically inhibiting SIRT1 by the specific inhibitor EX527 blocked Nrf2 activation. Moreover, F2-upregulated expression of SIRT1 was also Nrf2-dependent, as Nrf2 deficiency inhibited SIRT1 upregulation. These results indicate that SIRT1-Nrf2 signaling loop activation is indispensable for the protective effect of F2 against myocardial I/R injury, and may provide new insights for the treatment of ischemic heart disease.

The enigmatic interplay of immune cells and abnormal spermatozoa through Mendelian randomization

PURPOSE

Abnormal spermatozoa significantly impact reproductive health, affecting fertility rates, potentially prolonging conception time, and increasing the risk of miscarriages. This study employs Mendelian randomization to explore their potential link with immune cells, aiming to reveal their potential causal association and wider implications for reproductive health.

METHODS

We conducted forward and reverse Mendelian randomization analyses to explore the potential causal connection between 731 immune cell signatures and abnormal spermatozoa. Using publicly available genetic data, we investigated various immune signatures such as median fluorescence intensities (MFI), relative cell (RC), absolute cell (AC), and morphological parameters (MP). Robustness was ensured through comprehensive sensitivity analyses assessing consistency, heterogeneity, and potential horizontal pleiotropy. The MR study produced a statistically significant p-value of .0000684, Bonferroni-corrected for the 731 exposures.

RESULTS

The Mendelian randomization analysis revealed strong indications of a reciprocal relationship between immune cell pathways and sperm integrity. When examining immune cell exposure, a potential causal link with abnormal sperm was observed in 35 different types of immune cells. Conversely, the reverse Mendelian randomization results indicated that abnormal sperm might causally affect 39 types of immune cells. These outcomes suggest a potential mutual influence between alterations in immune cell functionality and the quality of spermatozoa.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the close link between immune responses and sperm development, suggesting implications for reproductive health and immune therapies. Further research may offer crucial insights into male fertility and immune disorders.

Measurements of All-Particle Energy Spectrum and Mean Logarithmic Mass of Cosmic Rays from 0.3 to 30 PeV with LHAASO-KM2A

We present the measurements of all-particle energy spectrum and mean logarithmic mass of cosmic rays in the energy range of 0.3-30 PeV using data collected from LHAASO-KM2A between September 2021 and December 2022, which is based on a nearly composition-independent energy reconstruction method, achieving unprecedented accuracy. Our analysis reveals the position of the knee at 3.67±0.05±0.15  PeV. Below the knee, the spectral index is found to be -2.7413±0.0004±0.0050, while above the knee, it is -3.128±0.005±0.027, with the sharpness of the transition measured with a statistical error of 2%. The mean logarithmic mass of cosmic rays is almost heavier than helium in the whole measured energy range. It decreases from 1.7 at 0.3 PeV to 1.3 at 3 PeV, representing a 24% decline following a power law with an index of -0.1200±0.0003±0.0341. This is equivalent to an increase in abundance of light components. Above the knee, the mean logarithmic mass exhibits a power law trend towards heavier components, which is reversal to the behavior observed in the all-particle energy spectrum. Additionally, the knee position and the change in power-law index are approximately the same. These findings suggest that the knee observed in the all-particle spectrum corresponds to the knee of the light component, rather than the medium-heavy components.

[Epidemiological and spatial-temporal clustering characteristics of pertussis in Hebei Province from 2013 to 2022]

Objective: To analyze the spatial-temporal epidemiological characteristics of pertussis from 2013 to 2022 in Hebei Province and to provide a reference for improving prevention and control measures. Methods: Based on the data of pertussis reported in Hebei Province during 2013-2022 to analyze the popular characteristic, the ArcGIS 10.8 software was used to construct a ring map and to perform spatial autocorrelation analysis; the SaTScan 10.1 software was used for spatial-temporal scan statistics. Results: There were 6 715 cases of the cumulative report in Hebei Province from 2013 to 2022 without death. The annual report incidence was 0.90/100 000. The overall incidence rate showed an upward trend from 2013 to 2019, and during 2020-2021, it showed a sharp decline, but in 2022, it showed a sharp increase. Summer and autumn are the peak seasons of the epidemic. The incidence was highest in age group <1 year (48.67%), and the lowest age group in age group ≥15 years (0.45%) and mainly scattered children (78.03%); the incidence about men is higher than women. Spatial autocorrelation analysis showed that the onset of pertussis has spatial clustering, and high-high clusters were found in Langfang, Baoding, and Cangzhou, the top three countries with reported incidence. The area covered by a low-low cluster was consistent with the distribution of the corresponding low-incidence areas in this study. Space-time scan detects five statistically significant areas, and three zones were concentrated in 2022. Conclusions: The incidence of pertussis in Hebei had obvious season, population, and area-specific differences. There was obvious spatiotemporal and clustering, so the control of key areas should target the characteristics of time and space.

N-n-butyl haloperidol iodide mediates cardioprotection via regulating AMPK/FoxO1 signalling

Derangement of redox condition largely contributes to cardiac ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. FoxO1 is a transcription factor which transcripts a series of antioxidants to antagonize I/R-induced oxidative myocardial damage. N-n-butyl haloperidol iodide (F2 ) is a derivative derived from haloperidol structural modification with potent capacity of inhibiting oxidative stress. This investigation intends to validate whether cardio-protection of F2 is dependent on FoxO1 using an in vivo mouse I/R model and if so, to further elucidate the molecular regulating mechanism. This study initially revealed that F2 preconditioning led to a profound reduction in I/R injury, which was accompanied by attenuated oxidative stress and upregulation of antioxidants (SOD2 and catalase), nuclear FoxO1 and phosphorylation of AMPK. Furthermore, inactivation of FoxO1 with AS1842856 abolished the cardio-protective effect of F2 . Importantly, we identified F2 -mediated nuclear accumulation of FoxO1 is dependent on AMPK, as blockage of AMPK with compound C induced nuclear exit of FoxO1. Collectively, our data uncover that F2 pretreatment exerts significant protection against post ischemic myocardial injury by its regulation of AMPK/FoxO1 pathway, which may provide a new avenue for treating ischemic disease.

[Application of a new-type of defecator in the treatment of rectal fecal impaction]

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the viability and safety of a novel defecator in managing rectal fecal impaction. Methods: In a descriptive case series, this new defecator was administered to constipated individuals among the ages of 18 and 80 years who met the diagnostic criteria for rectal fecal impaction and were identified with acute rectal fecal impaction through CT scans. The contraindications for this defecator included: (1) Anal stenosis, acute intestinal obstruction, and intestinal perforation; (2) Concomitant rectal malignant tumors; (3) Coagulation dysfunction, low platelet counts, gastrointestinal bleeding, or other bleeding risks; (4) Patients with severe underlying conditions affecting the heart, brain, lungs, or other systems; (5) Individuals with mental health disorders. Based on these criteria, clinical data from 42 patients with rectal fecal impaction who underwent treatment with the new defecator at Deyang People's Hospital between July 2020 and April 2023 were retrospectively analyzed.The defecator comprises three components: a head, a spiral rod, and a handle, constructed from disposable stainless steel wire. The treatment procedure involves the following steps: The patient assumes a flexed, supine position on their left side with their buttocks slightly protruding from the bed's edge. A transparent sealing bag is affixed to the buttocks, centered around the anus. With gloved hands inserted through the bag's entrance, a cotton ball soaked in liquid paraffin lubricates the anal canal and the head of the defecator's spiral rod. The defecator is then slowly rotated and inserted into the anus, with careful attention to any changes in resistance. Once the spiral rod is fully inserted, the patient is instructed to inhale and defecate while the defecator is slowly withdrawn, carrying the dislodged fecal matter, and depositing it into the sealed bag. This operation is repeated 2 to 3 times, followed by the injection of either 100 ml of 36°C normal saline or 60 ml of liquid paraffin into the rectum. After a 5 to 8-minute wait, the patient assumes a squatting position to expel any remaining feces from the rectum. The study assessed the operation time, single treatment success rate, pain levels during treatment, and the occurrence of complications. Results: All 42 patients successfully underwent treatment with the new defecator device, achieving a single treatment success rate of 100%. The average operation time was 11.0 minutes (range: 9.0 to 13.3 minutes). During treatment, 20 cases (47.6%) reported moderate to severe anal pain, with 1 case (2.4%) experiencing anal fissure bleeding, and 6 cases (14.3%) reporting discomfort such as palpitations and sweating. No serious complications, including rectal perforation, were observed in any case. Conclusion: The new defecator device demonstrates ease of use and safety, making it a feasible option for treating acute rectal fecal impaction.

Estrogen as a guardian of auditory health: Tsp1-CD47 axis regulation and noise-induced hearing loss

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to analyze the role of estrogen in noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and uncover underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

An ovariectomized Sprague-Dawley rat model (OVX) was constructed to investigate the hearing threshold and auditory latency before and after noise exposure using the auditory brainstem response (ABR) test. The morphological changes were assessed using immunofluorescence, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Proteomics and bioinformatics were used to analyze the mechanism. The findings were further verified through western blot and Luminex liquid suspension chip technology.

RESULTS

After noise exposure, OVX rats exhibited substantially elevated hearing thresholds. A conspicuous delay in ABR wave I latency was observed, alongside increased loss of outer hair cells, severe collapse of stereocilia and pronounced deformation of the epidermal plate. Accordingly, OVX rats with estrogen supplementation exhibited tolerance to NIHL. Additionally, a remarkable upregulation of the thrombospondin 1 (Tsp1)-CD47 axis in OVX rats was discovered and verified.

CONCLUSIONS

OVX rats were more susceptible to NIHL, and the protective effect of estrogen was achieved through regulation of the Tsp1-CD47 axis. This study presents a novel mechanism through which estrogen regulates NIHL and offers a potential intervention strategy for the clinical treatment of NIHL.

Measurement of Ultra-High-Energy Diffuse Gamma-Ray Emission of the Galactic Plane from 10 TeV to 1 PeV with LHAASO-KM2A

The diffuse Galactic γ-ray emission, mainly produced via interactions between cosmic rays and the interstellar medium and/or radiation field, is a very important probe of the distribution, propagation, and interaction of cosmic rays in the Milky Way. In this Letter, we report the measurements of diffuse γ rays from the Galactic plane between 10 TeV and 1 PeV energies, with the square kilometer array of the Large High Altitude Air Shower Observatory (LHAASO). Diffuse emissions from the inner (15°10  TeV). The energy spectrum in the inner Galaxy regions can be described by a power-law function with an index of -2.99±0.04, which is different from the curved spectrum as expected from hadronic interactions between locally measured cosmic rays and the line-of-sight integrated gas content. Furthermore, the measured flux is higher by a factor of ∼3 than the prediction. A similar spectrum with an index of -2.99±0.07 is found in the outer Galaxy region, and the absolute flux for 10≲E≲60  TeV is again higher than the prediction for hadronic cosmic ray interactions. The latitude distributions of the diffuse emission are consistent with the gas distribution, while the longitude distributions show clear deviation from the gas distribution. The LHAASO measurements imply that either additional emission sources exist or cosmic ray intensities have spatial variations.

The impact of social media on guideline-concordant cervical cancer-screening: insights from a national survey

OBJECTIVES

Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer mortality in women, yet routine screenings lead to early detection and sometimes even prevention. Screening is an effective way to prevent cervical cancer, and it has been implemented in many countries and regions worldwide, especially in developed countries. However, the incidence of cervical cancer remains a public health problem due to screening disparities in the population. Social media engagement and overloading of online health information may be the cause of this disparity.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

Data from the Health Information National Trends Survey (a national survey conducted by the National Cancer Institute) was used to characterise cervical cancer screening into two dimensions; namely, high-frequency screening and guideline-concordant screening. The differences between these two screening frequency behaviours were compared by applying ordered logistic regression and binary logistic regression, and the mechanisms of guideline-concordant screening were explored.

RESULTS

The factors influencing high-frequency screening and guideline-concordant screening were different. Only self-efficacy (odds ratio [OR] = 1.16; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.98, 1.37) had a significant positive association with the high-frequency screening behaviour. Social media engagement (OR = 0.57; 95% CI = 0.33, 0.96) was shown to have a significant negative impact on guideline-concordant screening. A theory-based mechanism of screening behaviour found that traditional health perception factors no longer influence guideline-concordant screening behaviour, whereas environmental factors (e.g., social media) significantly reduce guideline-concordant screening behaviour.

CONCLUSIONS

The results from this study indicate that while the internet has become the main channel through which women acquire health resources, and social media has become a main platform for people to obtain health information, online information cannot guide people to engage in appropriate healthy behaviours. Overloading of online health information and the digital divide may lead to excessive screening. Consequently, it is important to address the screening disparity caused by health behaviours as a result of environmental factors and the digital divide.

Based on disulfidptosis, revealing the prognostic and immunological characteristics of renal cell carcinoma with tumor thrombus of vena cava and identifying potential therapeutic target AJAP1

BACKGROUND

Patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) with venous tumor thrombus have a poor prognosis, high surgical risk, and lack of targeted therapeutic agents.

METHODS

Genes with consistent differential expression trends in tumor tissues and VTT groups were first screened, and then differential genes associated with disulfidptosis were found by correlation analysis. Subsequently, identifying ccRCC subtypes and constructing risk models to compare the differences in prognosis and the tumor microenvironment in different subgroups. Finally, constructing a nomogram to predict the prognosis of ccRCC and validate key gene expression levels in cells and tissues.

RESULTS

We screened 35 differential genes related to disulfidptosis and identified 4 ccRCC subtypes. Risk models were constructed based on the 13 genes, and the high-risk group had a higher abundance of immune cell infiltration, tumor mutational load, and microsatellite instability scores, predicting high sensitivity to immunotherapy. The 1-year AUC = 0.869 for predicting OS by nomogram has a high application value. The expression level of the key gene AJAP1 was low in both tumor cell lines and cancer tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study not only constructed an accurate prognostic nomogram for ccRCC patients but also identified an AJAP1 biomarker as a potential biomarker for the disease.

Prognostic and tumor microenvironmental feature of clear cell renal cell carcinoma revealed by m6A and lactylation modification-related genes

Background

Both lactylation and m6A modification have important implications for the development of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), and we aimed to use crosstalk genes of both to reveal the prognostic and immunological features of ccRCC.

Methods

Our first step was to look for lactylation-related genes that differed between normal and tumor tissues, and then by correlation analysis, we found the genes associated with M6A. Following that, ccRCC subtypes will be identified and risk models will be constructed to compare the prognosis and tumor microenvironment among different subgroups. A nomogram was constructed to predict the prognosis of ccRCC, and in vitro, experiments were conducted to validate the expression and function of key genes.

Results

We screened 100 crosstalk genes and identified 2 ccRCC subtypes. A total of 11 prognostic genes were screened for building a risk model. we observed higher immune scores, elevated tumor mutational burden, and microsatellite instability scores in the high-risk group. Therefore, individuals classified as high-risk would derive greater benefits from immunotherapy. The nomogram's ability to predict overall survival with a 1-year AUC of 0.863 demonstrates its significant practical utility. In addition, HIBCH was identified as a potential therapeutic target and its expression and function were verified by in vitro experiments.

Conclusion

In addition to developing a precise prognostic nomogram for patients with ccRCC, our study also discovered the potential of HIBCH as a biomarker for the disease.

[Targeting microRNA-125b inhibited the metastasis of Alisertib resistance cells through mediating p53 pathway]

Objective: To clarify the mechanisms involvement in Alisertib-resistant colorectal cells and explore a potential target to overcome Alisertib-resistance. Methods: Drug-resistant colon cancer cell line (named as HCT-8-7T cells) was established and transplanted into immunodeficient mice. The metastasis in vivo were observed. Proliferation and migration of HCT-8-7T cells and their parental cells were assessed by colony formation and Transwell assay, respectively. Glycolytic capacity and glutamine metabolism of cells were analyzed by metabolism assays. The protein and mRNA levels of critical factors which are involved in mediating glycolysis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) were examined by western blot and reverse transcription-quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(RT-qPCR), respectively. Results: In comparison with the mice transplanted with HCT-8 cells, which were survival with limited metastatic tumor cells in organs, aggressive metastases were observed in liver, lung, kidney and ovary of HCT-8-7T transplanted mice (P<0.05). The levels of ATP [(0.10±0.01) mmol/L], glycolysis [(81.77±8.21) mpH/min] and the capacity of glycolysis [(55.50±3.48) mpH/min] in HCT-8-7T cells were higher than those of HCT-8 cells [(0.04±0.01) mmol/L, (27.77±2.55) mpH/min and(14.00±1.19) mpH/min, respectively, P<0.05]. Meanwhile, the levels of p53 protein and mRNA in HCT-8-7T cells were potently decreased as compared to that in HCT-8 cells (P<0.05). However, the level of miRNA-125b (2.21±0.12) in HCT-8-7T cells was significantly elevated as compared to that in HCT-8 cells (1.00±0.00, P<0.001). In HCT-8-7T cells, forced-expression of p53 reduced the colon number (162.00±24.00) and the migration [(18.53±5.67)%] as compared with those in cells transfected with control vector [274.70±40.50 and (100.00±29.06)%, P<0.05, respectively]. Similarly, miR-125b mimic decreased the glycolysis [(25.28±9.51) mpH/min] in HCT-8-7T cells as compared with that [(54.38±12.70)mpH/min, P=0.003] in HCT-8-7T cells transfected with control. Meanwhile, in comparison with control transfected HCT-8-7T cells, miR-125b mimic also significantly led to an increase in the levels of p53 and β-catenin, in parallel with a decrease in the levels of PFK1 and HK1 in HCT-8-7T cells (P<0.05). Conclusions: Silencing of p53 by miR-125b could be one of the mechanisms that contributes to Alisertib resistance. Targeting miR-125b could be a strategy to overcome Alisertib resistance.

A tera-electron volt afterglow from a narrow jet in an extremely bright gamma-ray burst

Some gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) have a tera-electron volt (TeV) afterglow, but the early onset of this has not been observed. We report observations with the Large High Altitude Air Shower Observatory of the bright GRB 221009A, which serendipitously occurred within the instrument field of view. More than 64,000 photons >0.2 TeV were detected within the first 3000 seconds. The TeV flux began several minutes after the GRB trigger, then rose to a peak about 10 seconds later. This was followed by a decay phase, which became more rapid ~650 seconds after the peak. We interpret the emission using a model of a relativistic jet with half-opening angle ~0.8°. This is consistent with the core of a structured jet and could explain the high isotropic energy of this GRB.

High species diversity in Diaporthe associated with citrus diseases in China

Species in Diaporthe have broad host ranges and cosmopolitan geographic distributions, occurring as endophytes, saprobes and plant pathogens. Previous studies have indicated that many Diaporthe species are associated with Citrus. To further determine the diversity of Diaporthe species associated with citrus diseases in China, we conducted extensive surveys in major citrus-producing areas from 2017-2020. Diseased tissues were collected from leaves, fruits, twigs, branches and trunks showing a range of symptoms including melanose, dieback, gummosis, wood decay and canker. Based on phylogenetic comparisons of DNA sequences of the internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS), calmodulin (cal), histone H3 (his3), translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1) and beta-tubulin (tub2), 393 isolates from 10 provinces were identified as belonging to 36 species of Diaporthe, including 32 known species, namely D. apiculata, D. biconispora, D. biguttulata, D. caryae, D. citri, D. citriasiana, D. compacta, D. discoidispora, D. endophytica, D. eres, D. fusicola, D. fulvicolor, D. guangxiensis, D. hongkongensis, D. hubeiensis, D. limonicola, D. litchii, D. novem, D. passifloricola, D. penetriteum, D. pescicola, D. pometiae, D. sackstonii, D. sennicola, D. sojae, D. spinosa, D. subclavata, D. tectonae, D. tibetensis, D. unshiuensis, D. velutina and D. xishuangbanica, and four new species, namely D. gammata, D. jishouensis, D. ruiliensis and D. sexualispora. Among the 32 known species, 14 are reported for the first time on Citrus, and two are newly reported from China. Among the 36 species, D. citri was the dominant species as exemplified by its high frequency of isolation and virulence. Pathogenicity tests indicated that most Diaporthe species obtained in this study were weakly aggressive or non-pathogenic to the tested citrus varieties. Only D. citri produced the longest lesion lengths on citrus shoots and induced melanose on citrus leaves. These results further demonstrated that a rich diversity of Diaporthe species occupy Citrus, but only a few species are harmful and D. citri is the main pathogen for Citrus in China. The present study provides a basis from which targeted monitoring, prevention and control measures can be developed. Citation: Xiao XE, Liu YD, Zheng F, et al. 2023. High species diversity in Diaporthe associated with citrus diseases in China. Persoonia 51: 229-256. doi: 10.3767/persoonia.2023.51.06.

[Effects and mechanism of astragalus polysaccharide on wound healing of deep partial-thickness burns in rats]

Objective: To investigate the effects and mechanism of astragalus polysaccharide (APS) on wound healing of deep partial-thickness burns in rats. Methods: The experimental study method was used. Fifty 7-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into normal group, simple burn group, APS group, inhibitor group, and inhibitor+APS group according to the random number table, with 10 rats in each group. Except for normal group, rats in the other 4 groups were inflicted with a deep partial-thickness burn wound on the back. Rats in normal group and simple burn group were intraperitoneally injected with normal saline, and rats in the other three groups were injected with APS and/or integrin-linked kinase (ILK) inhibitor, respectively. After 7 days of injection, the wound healing rate of rats with burns in the four groups was calculated, and the serum content of interferon-γ, interleukin-2 (IL-2), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) in rats in 5 groups was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The normal skin tissue of rats in normal group and wound tissue of rats with burns in the four groups were taken, the water content was determined and the water ratio was calculated, the content of interferon-γ, IL-2, and TNF-α was detected by ELISA, the mRNA expressions of epidermal growth factor (EGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and ILK were detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and the protein expressions of ILK, protein kinase B (Akt), phosphorylated Akt (p-Akt), glycogen synthetic kinase-3β (GSK-3β), and phosphorylated GSK-3β (p-GSK-3β) were detected by Western blotting. Data were statistically analyzed with one-way analysis of variance and least significant difference test. Results: After 7 days of injection, the wound healing rate of rats in APS group was (67±5)%, which was significantly higher than (52±4)% in simple burn group and (59±5)% in inhibitor+APS group (with all the P values <0.05). The wound healing rate of rats in inhibitor+APS group was significantly higher than (48±4)% in inhibitor group (P<0.05). After 7 days of injection, compared with those in serum or normal skin tissue of rats in normal group, the serum content of interferon-γ, TNF-α, IL-2 and the water ratio of wound tissue of rats in simple burn group were significantly increased (P<0.05); compared with those in APS group, the serum content of interferon-γ, TNF-α, IL-2 and the water ratio of wound tissue of rats in simple burn group and inhibitor+APS group were significantly increased (P<0.05); compared with those in inhibitor group, the serum content of interferon-γ, TNF-α, IL-2 and the water ratio of wound tissue of rats in inhibitor+APS group were significantly decreased (P<0.05). After 7 days of injection, compared with that in normal skin tissue of rats in normal group, the content of interferon-γ, TNF-α, and IL-2 in wound tissue of rats in simple burn group was significantly increased (P<0.05); compared with that in APS group, the content of interferon-γ, TNF-α, and IL-2 in wound tissue of rats in simple burn group and inhibitor+APS group was significantly increased (P<0.05); compared with that in inhibitor group, the content of interferon-γ, TNF-α, and IL-2 in wound tissue of rats in inhibitor+APS group was significantly decreased (P<0.05). After 7 days of injection, compared with those in normal skin tissue of rats in normal group, the mRNA expressions of EGF, bFGF, ILK and protein expressions of ILK, p-Akt, p-GSK-3β in wound tissue of rats in simple burn group were significantly increased (P<0.05); compared with those in APS group, the mRNA expressions of EGF, bFGF, ILK and protein expressions of ILK, p-Akt, p-GSK-3β in wound tissue of rats in simple burn group and inhibitor+APS group were significantly decreased (P<0.05); compared with those in inhibitor group, the mRNA expressions of EGF, bFGF, ILK and protein expressions of ILK, p-Akt, p-GSK-3β in wound tissue of rats in inhibitor+APS group were significantly increased (P<0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in the protein expressions of Akt and GSK-3β in normal skin tissue of rats in normal group and wound tissue of rats with burns in the four groups (P>0.05). Conclusions: APS can alleviate systemic and local inflammation, alleviate tissue edema, and promote the expressions of healing factors in rats with deep partial-thickness burns, thus to promote the wound healing, possibly by activating ILK/Akt/GSK-3β signaling pathway.

Age-related adiposity and beta-cell function: impact on prediabetes and diabetes prevalence in middle-aged and older Han Chinese adults

PURPOSE

To investigate the effect of aging on the prevalence of prediabetes and diabetes, and the influence of aging on the associations among adipose mass, redistribution, β cell function, and the prevalence of hyperglycaemia.

METHOD

This urban-based cross-sectional study included 1033 Chinese Han people, aged 40-65 years. The abdominal subcutaneous fat area (SFA) and visceral fat area (VFA) were determined by magnetic resonance imaging. The prevalence rates of prediabetes and diabetes were analyzed according to age group (40-49, 50-59, and 60-65 years). The effects of aging on abdominal fat mass, adipose distribution, insulin action indexes were also assessed.

RESULTS

Prediabetes and diabetes prevalence gradually increased with age. Both SFA and VFA increased, while SFA/VFA decreased, in the 50-59 and 60-65 years age groups compared to the 40-49 years group. Homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) increased with fat mass. Homeostatic model assessment of beta-cell function (HOMA-β) and early-phase insulin secretion (∆I30/∆G30) were decreased in the 60-65 years group compared to the younger age groups. Increased age, VFA, and HOMA-IR, as well as decreased HOMA-β, were risk factors for the development of prediabetes and diabetes. The associations between central obesity and the development of prediabetes and diabetes, but not the associations of SFA/VFA, HOMA-IR, and HOMA-β with hyperglycaemia prevalence, weakened with age.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of prediabetes and diabetes increased with age. Central obesity may be related stronger to the development of hyperglycaemia in younger people.

A nomogram model for determining optimal patients for local therapy in metastatic prostate cancer: a SEER database-based study

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies have shown that local therapy can improve long-term survival in patients with metastatic prostate cancer. However, it is unclear which patients are the potential beneficiaries.

METHODS

We obtained information on prostate cancer patients from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database and divided eligible patients into the local treatment group and non-local treatment group. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to reduce the influence of confounding factors. In the matched local treatment (LT) group, if the median overall survival time (OS) was longer than the Nonlocal treatment (NLT) group, it was defined as a benefit group, otherwise, it was a non-benefit group. Then, univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to screen out predictors associated with benefits, and a nomogram model was constructed based on these factors. The accuracy and clinical value of the models were assessed through calibration plots and decision curve analysis.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 7255 eligible patients, and after PSM, each component included 1923 patients. After matching, the median OS was still higher in the LT group than in the NLT group [42 (95% confidence interval: 39-45) months vs 40 (95% confidence interval: 38-42) months, p = 0.03]. The independent predictors associated with benefit were age, PSA, Gleason score, T stage, N stage, and M stage. The nomogram model has high accuracy and clinical application value in both the training set (C-index = 0.725) and the validation set (C-index = 0.664).

CONCLUSIONS

The nomogram model we constructed can help clinicians identify patients with potential benefits from LT and formulate a reasonable treatment plan.

Effect of polymorphisms in drug metabolism and transportation on plasma concentration of atorvastatin and its metabolites in patients with chronic kidney disease

Dyslipidemia due to renal insufficiency is a common complication in patients with chronic kidney diseases (CKD), and a major risk factor for the development of cardiovascular events. Atorvastatin (AT) is mainly used in the treatment of dyslipidemia in patients with CKD. However, response to the atorvastatin varies inter-individually in clinical applications. We examined the association between polymorphisms in genes involved in drug metabolism and transport, and plasma concentrations of atorvastatin and its metabolites (2-hydroxy atorvastatin (2-AT), 2-hydroxy atorvastatin lactone (2-ATL), 4-hydroxy atorvastatin (4-AT), 4-hydroxy atorvastatin lactone (4-ATL), atorvastatin lactone (ATL)) in kidney diseases patients. Genotypes were determined using TaqMan real time PCR in 212 CKD patients, treated with 20 mg of atorvastatin daily for 6 weeks. The steady state plasma concentrations of atorvastatin and its metabolites were quantified using ultraperformance liquid chromatography in combination with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Univariate and multivariate analyses showed the variant in ABCC4 (rs3742106) was associated with decreased concentrations of AT and its metabolites (2-AT+2-ATL: β = -0.162, p = 0.028 in the dominant model; AT+2-AT+4-AT: β = -0.212, p = 0.028 in the genotype model), while patients carrying the variant allele ABCC4-rs868853 (β = 0.177, p = 0.011) or NR1I2-rs6785049 (β = 0.123, p = 0.044) had higher concentrations of 2-AT+2-ATL in plasma compared with homozygous wildtype carriers. Luciferase activity was enhanced in HepG2 cells harboring a construct expressing the rs3742106-T allele or the rs868853-G allele (p < 0.05 for each) compared with a construct expressing the rs3742106G or the rs868853-A allele. These findings suggest that two functional polymorphisms in the ABCC4 gene may affect transcriptional activity, thereby directly or indirectly affecting release of AT and its metabolites from hepatocytes into the circulation.

Constraints on Heavy Decaying Dark Matter from 570 Days of LHAASO Observations

The kilometer square array (KM2A) of the large high altitude air shower observatory (LHAASO) aims at surveying the northern γ-ray sky at energies above 10 TeV with unprecedented sensitivity. γ-ray observations have long been one of the most powerful tools for dark matter searches, as, e.g., high-energy γ rays could be produced by the decays of heavy dark matter particles. In this Letter, we present the first dark matter analysis with LHAASO-KM2A, using the first 340 days of data from 1/2-KM2A and 230 days of data from 3/4-KM2A. Several regions of interest are used to search for a signal and account for the residual cosmic-ray background after γ/hadron separation. We find no excess of dark matter signals, and thus place some of the strongest γ-ray constraints on the lifetime of heavy dark matter particles with mass between 10^{5} and 10^{9}  GeV. Our results with LHAASO are robust, and have important implications for dark matter interpretations of the diffuse astrophysical high-energy neutrino emission.

Resveratrol, novel application by preconditioning to attenuate myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury in mice through regulate AMPK pathway and autophagy level

Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MI/RI) is the main cause of deaths in the worldwide, leading to severe cardiac dysfunction. Resveratrol (RSV) is a polyphenol plant-derived compound. Our study aimed to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanism of preconditioning RSV in protecting against MI/RI. Mice were ligated and re-perfused by the left anterior descending branch with or without RSV (30 mg/kg·ip) for 7 days. Firstly, we found that RSV pretreatment significantly alleviated myocardial infarct size, improved cardiac function and decreased oxidative stress. Furthermore, RSV activated p-AMPK and SIRT1, ameliorated inflammation including the level of TNF-α and IL-1β, and promoting autophagy level. Moreover, neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVMs) and H9c2 cells with knockdown the expression of AMPK, SIRT1 or FOXO1 were used to uncover the underlying molecular mechanism for the cardio-protection of RSV. In NRVMs, RSV increased cellular viability, decreased LDH release and reduced oxidative stress. Importantly, Compound C(CpC) and EX527 reversed the effect of RSV against MI/RI in vivo and in vitro and counteracted the autophagy level induced by RSV. Together, our study indicated that RSV could alleviate oxidative stress in cardiomyocytes through activating AMPK/SIRT1-FOXO1 signallingpathway and enhanced autophagy level, thus presenting high potential protection on MI/RI.

Geniposide suppresses NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis via the AMPK signaling pathway to mitigate myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury

BACKGROUND

NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pyroptosis play a significant role in myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MI/RI). Geniposide was reported to show potential therapeutic use for MI/RI with its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties. However, research on the specific mechanism of geniposide has not been reported.

METHODS

The MIRI model of animal was created in male C57BL/6J mice and the hypoxia reoxygenation (H/R) model was established for the in vitro experiments. Neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVMs) and H9c2 cells with knockdown of TXNIP or NLRP3 were used. Geniposide was administered to mice before vascular ligation. HE staining, 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining, echocardiography, oxidative stress and myocardial enzyme detection were used to evaluate the cardioprotective effect of geniposide. Meanwhile, pharmacological approaches of agonist and inhibitor were used to observe potential pathway for geniposide cardioprotective in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, ELISA kits were adopted to detect the levels of inflammatory factors, such as IL-1β and IL-18. The gene and protein expression of NLRP3 and pyroptosis-related factors in heart tissue were performed by RT-PCR, western blotting and immunofluorescence in vivo and in vitro, respectively.

RESULTS

Our results indicate that geniposide can reduce the area of myocardial infarction, improve heart function, and inhibit the inflammatory response in mice after MI/RI. In addition, RT-PCR and western blotting shown geniposide promoting AMPK phosphorylation to activate myocardium energy metabolism and reducing the levels of genes and proteins expression of NLRP3, ASC, N-GSDMD and cleaved caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-18. Meanwhile, geniposide improved NRVMs energy metabolism, which decreased ROS levels and the protein expression of TXNIP and thus suppressed the expression of NLRP3. AMPK antagonist or agonist and siRNA downregulation of TXNIP or NLRP3 were also verify the effect of geniposide against H/R injury. Further research found that geniposide promoted the translocation of TXNIP and reduce the binding of TXNIP and NLRP3.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, geniposide can significantly inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome activation via the AMPK signaling pathway and inhibit pyroptosis of cardiomyocytes in myocardial tissues.

Geniposide suppresses NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis via the AMPK signaling pathway to mitigate myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury.. [DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-1468410/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

Background: NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pyroptosis play a significant role in myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MI/RI). Geniposide was reported to show potential therapeutic use for MI/RI with its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties. However, research on the specific mechanism of geniposide has not been reported.Methods: The Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MI/RI) model of animal was created in male C57BL/6J mice and the hypoxia reoxygenation model was established for the in vitro experiments. Neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVMs) and H9c2 cells with knockdown of TXNIP or NLRP3 were used. Geniposide was administered to mice before vascular ligation. HE staining, 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining, echocardiography, oxidative stress and myocardial enzyme detection were used to evaluate the cardioprotective effect of geniposide. Meanwhile, pharmacological approaches of agonist and inhibitor were used to observe potential pathway for geniposide cardioprotective in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, ELISA kits were adopted to detect the levels of inflammatory factors, such as IL-1β and IL-18. The gene and protein expression of NLRP3 and pyroptosis-related factors in heart tissue were performed by immunofluorescence, RT-PCR, western blotting in vivo and in vitro, respectively.Results: Our results indicate that geniposide can reduce the area of myocardial infarction, improve heart function, and inhibit the inflammatory response in mice after MI/RI. In addition, RT-PCR and western blotting shown geniposide promoting AMPK phosphorylation to activate myocardium energy metabolism and reducing the levels of genes and proteins expression of NLRP3, ASC, N-GSDMD and cleaved caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-18. Meanwhile, geniposide improved NRVMs energy metabolism, which decreased ROS levels and the protein expression of TXNIP and thus suppressed the expression of NLRP3. AMPK antagonist or agonist and siRNA downregulation of TXNIP or NLRP3 were also verify the effect of geniposide against H/R injury. Further research found that geniposide promoted the translocation of TXNIP and reduce the binding of TXNIP and NLRP3.Conclusions: In our study, geniposide can significantly inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome activation via the AMPK signaling pathway and inhibit pyroptosis of cardiomyocytes in myocardial tissues.

Acceleration of Brain Susceptibility-Weighted Imaging with Compressed Sensitivity Encoding: A Prospective Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

While three-dimensional susceptibility-weighted imaging has been widely suggested for intracranial vessel imaging, hemorrhage detection, and other neuro-diseases, its relatively long scan time has necessitated the clinical verification of recent progresses of fast imaging techniques. Our aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of brain SWI accelerated by compressed sensitivity encoding to identify the optimal acceleration factors for clinical practice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ninety-nine subjects, prospectively enrolled from 5 centers, underwent 8 brain SWI sequences: 5 different folds of compressed sensitivity encoding acceleration (CS2, CS4, CS6, CS8, and CS10), 2 different folds of sensitivity encoding acceleration (SF2 and SF4), and 1 without acceleration. Images were assessed quantitatively on both the SNR of the red nucleus and its contrast ratio to the CSF and, subjectively, with scoring on overall image quality; visibility of the substantia nigra-red nucleus, basilar artery, and internal cerebral vein; and diagnostic confidence of the cerebral microbleeds and other intracranial diseases.

RESULTS

Compressed sensitivity encoding showed a promising ability to reduce the acquisition time (from 202 to 41 seconds) of SWI while increasing the acceleration factor from 2 to 10, though at the cost of decreasing the SNR, contrast ratio, and the scores of visual assessments. The visibility of the substantia nigra-red nucleus and internal cerebral vein became unacceptable in CS6 to CS10. The basilar artery was well-distinguished, and diseases including cerebral microbleeds, cavernous angiomas, intracranial gliomas, venous malformations, and subacute hemorrhage were well-diagnosed in all compressed sensitivity encoding sequences.

CONCLUSIONS

Compressed sensitivity encoding factor 4 is recommended in routine practice. Compressed sensitivity encoding factor 10 is potentially a fast surrogate for distinguishing the basilar artery and detecting susceptibility-related abnormalities (eg, cerebral microbleeds, cavernous angiomas, gliomas, and venous malformation) at the sacrifice of visualization of the substantia nigra-red nucleus and internal cerebral vein.

Exploring Lorentz Invariance Violation from Ultrahigh-Energy γ Rays Observed by LHAASO

Recently, the LHAASO Collaboration published the detection of 12 ultrahigh-energy γ-ray sources above 100 TeV, with the highest energy photon reaching 1.4 PeV. The first detection of PeV γ rays from astrophysical sources may provide a very sensitive probe of the effect of the Lorentz invariance violation (LIV), which results in decay of high-energy γ rays in the superluminal scenario and hence a sharp cutoff of the energy spectrum. Two highest energy sources are studied in this work. No signature of the existence of the LIV is found in their energy spectra, and the lower limits on the LIV energy scale are derived. Our results show that the first-order LIV energy scale should be higher than about 10^{5} times the Planck scale M_{Pl} and that the second-order LIV scale is >10^{-3}M_{Pl}. Both limits improve by at least one order of magnitude the previous results.

Peta-electron volt gamma-ray emission from the Crab Nebula

The Crab Nebula is a bright source of gamma rays powered by the Crab Pulsar's rotational energy through the formation and termination of a relativistic electron-positron wind. We report the detection of gamma rays from this source with energies from 5 × 10^-4 to 1.1 peta-electron volts with a spectrum showing gradual steepening over three energy decades. The ultrahigh-energy photons imply the presence of a peta-electron volt electron accelerator (a pevatron) in the nebula, with an acceleration rate exceeding 15% of the theoretical limit. We constrain the pevatron's size between 0.025 and 0.1 parsecs and the magnetic field to ≈110 microgauss. The production rate of peta-electron volt electrons, 2.5 × 10³⁶ ergs per second, constitutes 0.5% of the pulsar spin-down luminosity, although we cannot exclude a contribution of peta-electron volt protons to the production of the highest-energy gamma rays.

Extended Very-High-Energy Gamma-Ray Emission Surrounding PSR J0622+3749 Observed by LHAASO-KM2A

We report the discovery of an extended very-high-energy (VHE) gamma-ray source around the location of the middle-aged (207.8 kyr) pulsar PSR J0622+3749 with the Large High-Altitude Air Shower Observatory (LHAASO). The source is detected with a significance of 8.2σ for E>25  TeV assuming a Gaussian template. The best-fit location is (right ascension, declination) =(95.47°±0.11°,37.92°±0.09°), and the extension is 0.40°±0.07°. The energy spectrum can be described by a power-law spectrum with an index of -2.92±0.17_{stat}±0.02_{sys}. No clear extended multiwavelength counterpart of the LHAASO source has been found from the radio to sub-TeV bands. The LHAASO observations are consistent with the scenario that VHE electrons escaped from the pulsar, diffused in the interstellar medium, and scattered the interstellar radiation field. If interpreted as the pulsar halo scenario, the diffusion coefficient, inferred for electrons with median energies of ∼160  TeV, is consistent with those obtained from the extended halos around Geminga and Monogem and much smaller than that derived from cosmic ray secondaries. The LHAASO discovery of this source thus likely enriches the class of so-called pulsar halos and confirms that high-energy particles generally diffuse very slowly in the disturbed medium around pulsars.

Ultrahigh-energy photons up to 1.4 petaelectronvolts from 12 γ-ray Galactic sources

The extension of the cosmic-ray spectrum beyond 1 petaelectronvolt (PeV; 10¹⁵ electronvolts) indicates the existence of the so-called PeVatrons-cosmic-ray factories that accelerate particles to PeV energies. We need to locate and identify such objects to find the origin of Galactic cosmic rays¹. The principal signature of both electron and proton PeVatrons is ultrahigh-energy (exceeding 100 TeV) γ radiation. Evidence of the presence of a proton PeVatron has been found in the Galactic Centre, according to the detection of a hard-spectrum radiation extending to 0.04 PeV (ref. ²). Although γ-rays with energies slightly higher than 0.1 PeV have been reported from a few objects in the Galactic plane^3-6, unbiased identification and in-depth exploration of PeVatrons requires detection of γ-rays with energies well above 0.1 PeV. Here we report the detection of more than 530 photons at energies above 100 teraelectronvolts and up to 1.4 PeV from 12 ultrahigh-energy γ-ray sources with a statistical significance greater than seven standard deviations. Despite having several potential counterparts in their proximity, including pulsar wind nebulae, supernova remnants and star-forming regions, the PeVatrons responsible for the ultrahigh-energy γ-rays have not yet been firmly localized and identified (except for the Crab Nebula), leaving open the origin of these extreme accelerators.

Modular gene analysis reveals distinct molecular signatures for subsets of patients with cutaneous lupus erythematosus

BACKGROUND

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is a heterogeneous autoimmune disease with clinical sequelae such as itching, dyspigmentation and scarring.

OBJECTIVES

We applied a previously described modular analysis approach to assess the molecular heterogeneity of patients with CLE.

METHODS

Whole-blood transcriptomes of RNA sequencing data from a racially and ethnically diverse group of patients with CLE (n = 62) were used to calculate gene co-expression module scores. An unsupervised cluster analysis and k-means clustering based on these module scores were then performed. We used Fisher's exact tests and Kruskal-Wallis tests to compare characteristics between patient clusters.

RESULTS

Six unique clusters of patients with CLE were identified from the cluster analysis. We observed that seven inflammation modules were elevated in two clusters of patients with CLE. Additionally, these clusters were characterized by interferon, neutrophil and cell-death signatures, suggesting that interferon-related proteins, neutrophils and cell-death processes could be driving the inflammatory response in these subgroups. Three different clusters had a predominant T-cell signature, which were supported by lymphocyte counts.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data support a diverse molecular profile in CLE that further adds to the clinical variations of this skin disease, and may affect disease course and treatment selection. Future studies with a larger and diverse cohort of patients with CLE are warranted to confirm these findings.

"Optimization of Surgical Resident Safety and Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic - Lessons Learned"

The COVID-19 pandemic has engendered rapid and significant changes in patient care. Within the realm of surgical training, the resultant reduction in clinical exposure and case volume jeopardizes the quality of surgical training. Thus, our general surgery residency program proceeded to develop a tailored approach to training that mitigates impact on resident surgical education and optimizes clinical exposure without compromising safety. Residents were engaged directly in planning efforts to craft a response to the pandemic. Following the elimination of elective cases, the in-house resident complement was effectively decreased to reduce unnecessary exposure, with a back-up pool to address unanticipated absences and needs. Personal protective equipment availability and supply, the greatest concern to residents, has remained adequate, while being utilized according to current guidelines. Interested residents were given the opportunity to work in designated COVID ICUs on a volunteer basis. With the decrease in operative volume and clinical duties, we shifted our educational focus to an intensive didactic schedule using a teleconferencing platform and targeted areas of weakness on prior in-service exams. We also highlighted critical COVID-19 literature in a weekly journal club to better understand this novel disease and its effect on surgical practice. The long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on resident education remains to be seen. Success may be achieved with commitment to constant needs assessment in the changing landscape of healthcare with the goal of producing a skilled surgical workforce for public service.

Lipid antigens in bile from patients with chronic liver diseases activate natural killer T cells

Natural killer T (NKT) cells are an abundant subset of liver lymphocytes activated by lipid antigens presented on CD1d molecules that are expressed by cholangiocytes. We aimed to determine if bile from patients with chronic liver diseases contains antigenic lipids that can activate NKT cells. Using murine invariant (24.7, 24.8 and DN32.D3) and non-invariant (14S.6, 14S.7 and 14S.10) NKT hybridomas we investigated the presence of lipid antigens in bile collected from the gallbladder of patients undergoing liver transplantation due to end-stage liver disease. Biliary microbiota profiles were generated using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. We found that the patient bile samples contain antigens that activate both invariant and non-invariant NKT hybridomas (24.7, 24.8, DN32.D3, 14S.6, 14S.7 and 14S.10), as demonstrated by activation of at least one hybridoma by eight of 10 bile samples. Activation at high dilutions suggests that some antigens are highly potent. We used the non-invariant NKT hybridoma 14S.6 to screen 21 additional patient bile samples for NKT-reactivity and demonstrated that 12 of 21 bile samples resulted in activation, three of which gave a strong activation. Four of 12 activating bile samples contained microbial DNA. Our results reveal an immunological pathway that could be of critical importance in biliary immunology.

High expression of forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) is a poor prognostic biomarker in lung adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) is closely related to the formation and development of cancer. Because of differences in cellular origin, lung adenocarcinoma (ADC) and lung squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) usually exhibit different signatures. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the abnormalities of FOXM1 in the two subtypes separately.

METHODS

Through the Oncomine and TCGA databases, we investigated the expression of FOXM1 mRNA, its prognostic value and possible mechanisms leading to its dysregulation. Furthermore, networks involving FOXM1 and its significantly altered neighboring genes were identified using the cBioPortal database. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were performed using DAVID.

RESULTS

Expression of FOXM1 mRNA was higher in lung tumor tissues than in normal tissues, and higher in SCC tissues than in ADC tissues. FOXM1 mRNA expression was correlated with N stage, TNM stage, age, sex and smoking history in ADC, but only correlated with N stage, age and sex in SCC. Survival analysis indicated that high expression of FOXM1 mRNA resulted to poor overall survival (OS) for ADC patients, but not for SCC patients. Cox regression analysis confirmed that FOXM1 mRNA expression was an independent prognostic indicator for ADC patients, and regression analysis identified a moderately positive correlation between FOXM1 mRNA levels and copy number alterations (CNAs), but a weakly negative association with DNA methylation. FOXM1 was mainly involved in cell cycle regulation, G2/M transition, G1/S transition and p53, PI3K-Akt and TGF-beta signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

High expression of FOXM1 mRNA might be an independent biomarker of poor OS in ADC patients.

Resveratrol alleviates osteoporosis through improving the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the protective effect of Resveratrol (RES) on TNF-α-induced inhibition of osteogenic differentiation, thus alleviating the progression of osteoporosis (OP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

OP model in rats was first conducted by performing ovariectomy (OVX). Rats were randomly divided into sham group, OVX group, and RES+OVX group. Body weight of each rat was regularly recorded every week. Bone mineral density (BMD) of rat femoral metaphysis was measured by micro-CT. Changes in radial degrees and loads of rat femora were examined through three-point bending experiments. Relative levels of OCN and Runx2 in each group were determined by quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and calcification ability were assessed through ALP staining and alizarin red staining, respectively. Bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were extracted from healthy rats and divided into control group, Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) group, RES group, and TNF-α+RES group based on different treatments. Relative levels of OCN and Runx2, ALP activity, and calcification ability in each group were detected in the same way. Finally, protein levels of NF-κB and β-catenin in BMSCs were determined.

RESULTS

Rats in each group gained body weight during the experimental period, especially those in OVX group and RES+OVX group. No significant difference in the body weight was found between OVX group and RES+OVX group. BMD in rat femora of RES+OVX group was higher than in OVX group but lower than sham group. Elastic/max radial degree and elastic/max load of femora were markedly reduced in OVX group compared to RES+OVX group. Relative levels of OCN and Runx2, ALP activity and calcification ability decreased in OVX group relative to sham group, which were partially reversed by RES treatment. After osteogenic differentiation in BMSCs induced with TNF-α, viability and calcification ability were markedly reduced and were upregulated by RES treatment. Moreover, RES treatment enhanced the downregulated levels of OCN and Runx2 in BMSCs undergoing TNF-α induction. Upregulated protein levels of nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) and β-catenin in TNF-α-induced BMSCs were downregulated by RES treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The inhibited osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs undergoing TNF-α induction is improved by resveratrol treatment, which contributes to alleviate the progression of osteoporosis.

[Expression and clinical significance of LRFN4 in colorectal cancer tissue]

Objective: To investigate the expression and clinical significance of LRFN4 in colorectal cancer. Methods: A total of 210 cases of colorectal cancer tissues and 228 cases of corresponding surgical margin tissues were collected. Immunohistochemistry was employed to evaluate the expression of LRFN4 in colorectal cancer.The correlation between LRFN4 expression and clinicopathological features of colorectal cancer as well as patient outcome were analyzed. Results: The positive rate of LRFN4 in colorectal cancer and in non-cancer was 55.24%(116/210), and 37.28% (85/228) , respectively.The expression of LRFN4 in colorectal cancer tissues was higher than that in non-cancer tissues(χ(2)=14.196, P<0.001). High expression of LRFN4 was significantly correlated with tumor location(χ(2)=4.133,P=0.042), T staging(χ(2)=6.494,P=0.039), N staging(χ(2)=11.715,P=0.008), TNM staging(χ(2)=13.398,P=0.004), CEA (χ(2)=6.017, P=0.049), but without gender, age, degree of differentiation, M staging(P>0.05).The Kaplan-Meier survival curves indicated that high LRFN4 expression was associated with good survival (P<0.05). In addition, Cox proportional hazards model showed that the high expression of LRFN4(HR=0.585, P=0.018)was an independent risk factor for prognosis in patients with colorectal cancer. Conclusions: The expression of LRFN4 is up-regulated in colorectal cancer, which is significantly correlated with the clinicopathological features and prognosis. High expression of LRFN4 reduced the risk of death in patients with colorectal cancer.

LncRNA HOTAIR-mediated MTHFR methylation inhibits 5-fluorouracil sensitivity in esophageal cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Esophageal cancer (EC) represents one of the most aggressive digestive neoplasms globally, with marked geographical variations in morbidity and mortality. Chemoprevention is a promising approach for cancer therapy, while acquired chemoresistance is a major obstacle impeding the success of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-based chemotherapy in EC, with the mechanisms underlying resistance not well-understood. In the present study, we focus on exploring the role of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) HOTAIR in EC progression and sensitivity of EC cells to 5-FU.

METHODS

Paired cancerous and pre-cancerous tissues surgically resected from EC patients were collected in this study. Promoter methylation of the MTHFR was assessed by methylation-specific PCR. RIP and ChIP assays were adopted to examine the interaction of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) with lncRNA HOTAIR and MTHFR, respectively. EC cells resistant to 5-FU were induced by step-wise continuous increasing concentrations of 5-FU. The sensitivity of EC cells to 5-FU in vivo was evaluated in nude mice treated with xenografts of EC cells followed by injection with 5-FU (i.p.).

RESULTS

We found reciprocal expression patterns of lncRNA HOTAIR and MTHFR in EC tissues and human EC cells. Interference with lncRNA HOTAIR enhanced 5-FU-induced apoptosis, exhibited anti-proliferative activity, and reduced promoter methylation of the MTHFR in EC cells. Besides, overexpression of MTHFR attenuated the acquired chemoresistance induced by overexpression of lncRNA HOTAIR in EC cells. At last, enhanced chemosensitivity was observed in vivo once nude mice xenografted with lncRNA HOTAIR-depleted EC cells.

CONCLUSION

Together, our study proposes that pharmacologic targeting of lncRNA HOTAIR sensitizes EC cells to 5-FU-based chemotherapy by attenuating the promoter hypermethylation of the MTHFR in EC.

Clinical characteristics of 161 cases of corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Changsha

OBJECTIVE

In December 2019, a new type of coronavirus-infected pneumonia broke out in Wuhan and spread rapidly to other parts of the country. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical features of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed on the confirmed cases of COVID-19, who were admitted to the North Hospital of Changsha first Hospital (Changsha Public Health treatment Center) from January 17 to February 7, 2020.

RESULTS

The median age of COVID-19 patients was 45 years (range 33.5-57). The male patients accounted for 49.7%, 64.6% of the patients had a history of exposure in Wuhan, and 31.7% had family aggregation. The median days of onset were six, and the incidence of severe illness was 18.6%. Compared with the non-severe group, the severe group showed statistical significance in older age, hypertension, bilateral lung plaque shadow, decrease in lymphocyte count, increase in C-reactive protein (CRP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase, and creatine kinase.

CONCLUSIONS

Age, combined hypertension, oxygenation index, double lung patch, decreased lymphocyte count, and elevated levels of C-reactive protein, aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, and creatine kinase can be used as predictors of the disease severity.

Reconstruction and analysis of the aberrant lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network in systemic lupus erythematosus

OBJECTIVE

A new perspective of determining the pathophysiology of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) development is required. The current study explores the aberrant expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA), microRNA (miRNA) and mRNA. The study further constructs and analyses the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network to elucidate their gene regulation roles in SLE.

METHOD

We extracted mRNA, lncRNA and miRNA from the whole venous blood of 20 SLE patients and 20 normal control (NC) healthy individuals. A lncRNA-mRNA-miRNA network in SLE was constructed using a bioinformatics approach. Subsequently, Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses were performed using the Cytoscape plug-in BinGo, the DAVID database and Cytoscape software to explore the function of mRNAs in this network.

RESULT

A total of 855 mRNA, 7311 lncRNA and 134 miRNA with differentially expressed profiles were identified. Meanwhile, we established a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) subnetwork composed of 52 differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs), seven differentially expressed miRNAs and 10 differentially expressed mRNAs. We extracted the subnetwork from the ceRNA network and found that three novel miRNAs were key: hsa-miR-145, hsa-miR-17 and hsa-miR-143. We also deduced that the DElncRNAs MIAT and NEAT1 might play crucial roles in the pathogenesis of SLE. The results were verified by bioinformatics analysis.

CONCLUSION

Our results provide a novel perspective for studying lncRNA-related and miRNA-related ceRNA networks in SLE.

[Primary cystic echinococcosis in the left femur: a case report]

This article reported a case with primary cystic echinococcosis in the left femur.