Study of High-Transverse-Momentum Higgs Boson Production in Association with a Vector Boson in the qqbb Final State with the ATLAS Detector

This Letter presents the first study of Higgs boson production in association with a vector boson (V=W or Z) in the fully hadronic qqbb final state using data recorded by the ATLAS detector at the LHC in proton-proton collisions at sqrt[s]=13  TeV and corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 137  fb^{-1}. The vector bosons and Higgs bosons are each reconstructed as large-radius jets and tagged using jet substructure techniques. Dedicated tagging algorithms exploiting b-tagging properties are used to identify jets consistent with Higgs bosons decaying into bb[over ¯]. Dominant backgrounds from multijet production are determined directly from the data, and a likelihood fit to the jet mass distribution of Higgs boson candidates is used to extract the number of signal events. The VH production cross section is measured inclusively and differentially in several ranges of Higgs boson transverse momentum: 250-450, 450-650, and greater than 650 GeV. The inclusive signal yield relative to the standard model expectation is observed to be μ=1.4_{-0.9}^{+1.0} and the corresponding cross section is 3.1±1.3(stat)_{-1.4}^{+1.8}(syst)  pb.

Measurement of the Centrality Dependence of the Dijet Yield in p+Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=8.16 TeV with the ATLAS Detector

ATLAS measured the centrality dependence of the dijet yield using 165  nb^{-1} of p+Pb data collected at sqrt[s_{NN}]=8.16  TeV in 2016. The event centrality, which reflects the p+Pb impact parameter, is characterized by the total transverse energy registered in the Pb-going side of the forward calorimeter. The central-to-peripheral ratio of the scaled dijet yields, R_{CP}, is evaluated, and the results are presented as a function of variables that reflect the kinematics of the initial hard parton scattering process. The R_{CP} shows a scaling with the Bjorken x of the parton originating from the proton, x_{p}, while no such trend is observed as a function of x_{Pb}. This analysis provides unique input to understanding the role of small proton spatial configurations in p+Pb collisions by covering parton momentum fractions from the valence region down to x_{p}∼10^{-3} and x_{Pb}∼4×10^{-4}.

Stable color-tunable Ca3Y(GaO)3(BO3)4:Bi3+/Tb3+/Eu3+ phosphors for application in n-UV-pumped wLEDs

For further development of light sources, white light-emitting diodes (wLEDs) have attracted widespread attention as promising next-generation light sources fabricated via the combination of phosphors and LED chips. However, latent defects, such as chemical/thermal instability, low color rendering index (CRI) and high correlated color temperature (CCT), of current mainstream wLEDs seriously hinder their further large-scale implementation. Herein, in order to overcome these limitations, single-phase color-tunable gaudefroyite (Ca3Y(GaO)3(BO3)4 (CYGB)) tridoped with Bi3+/Tb3+/Eu3+ ions was synthesized for the first time and detailed characterisation was performed via high-temperature solid-state reaction and structural/spectral analyses, respectively. Radius difference percentage calculations and Rietveld refinements indicate that dopants occupy both Y3+ and Ca2+ sites but preferably the Y3+ site over the Ca2+ site due to the same valence state. Through subtly regulating the (co)doping contents and skillfully utilizing the energy transfer (ET) strategy from the allowed transition of blue light-emitting Bi to the forbidden transition of green/red light-emitting Tb/Eu, the color hue (including white light) of highly efficient PL can be easily tuned according to the need. Meanwhile, composition/content-optimized white light-emitting CYGB:2%Bi/10%Tb/12%Eu also shows splendid chemical/thermal stability. Finally, as a proof-of-concept experiment, the CYGB:2%Bi/10%Tb/12%Eu phosphor-converted wLED (pc-wLED) was fabricated and encapsulated via the up-to-date remote 'capping' method, which imparted attractive performances. Altogether, the stable CYGB:Bi/Tb/Eu phosphor is a promising candidate for application in lighting/display fields.

Search for New Phenomena in Two-Body Invariant Mass Distributions Using Unsupervised Machine Learning for Anomaly Detection at sqrt[s]=13 TeV with the ATLAS Detector

Searches for new resonances are performed using an unsupervised anomaly-detection technique. Events with at least one electron or muon are selected from 140  fb^{-1} of pp collisions at sqrt[s]=13  TeV recorded by ATLAS at the Large Hadron Collider. The approach involves training an autoencoder on data, and subsequently defining anomalous regions based on the reconstruction loss of the decoder. Studies focus on nine invariant mass spectra that contain pairs of objects consisting of one light jet or b jet and either one lepton (e,μ), photon, or second light jet or b jet in the anomalous regions. No significant deviations from the background hypotheses are observed. Limits on contributions from generic Gaussian signals with various widths of the resonance mass are obtained for nine invariant masses in the anomalous regions.

Observation of WZγ Production in pp Collisions at sqrt[s]=13 TeV with the ATLAS Detector

This Letter reports the observation of WZγ production and a measurement of its cross section using 140.1±1.2  fb^{-1} of proton-proton collision data recorded at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV by the ATLAS detector at the Large Hadron Collider. The WZγ production cross section, with both the W and Z bosons decaying leptonically, pp→WZγ→ℓ^{'}^{±}νℓ^{+}ℓ^{-}γ (ℓ^{(^{'})}=e, μ), is measured in a fiducial phase-space region defined such that the leptons and the photon have high transverse momentum and the photon is isolated. The cross section is found to be 2.01±0.30(stat)±0.16(syst)  fb. The corresponding standard model predicted cross section calculated at next-to-leading order in perturbative quantum chromodynamics and at leading order in the electroweak coupling constant is 1.50±0.06  fb. The observed significance of the WZγ signal is 6.3σ, compared with an expected significance of 5.0σ.

[Cariology and Endodontology in China forges ahead together with Chinese Journal of Stomatology]

The articles related to Cariology and Endodontology published in Chinese Journal of Stomatology from August 1953 to July 2023 were summarized. Total 1 247 articles accounting for 12.5% of the journal's publications were involved, which reflected the progress of Cariology and Endodontology in China. The publications of five pioneers and nine chairmen of Chinese Stomatological Association Society of Cariology and Endodontology were also recorded. Whether in clinical diagnosis and treatment or cutting-edge scientific research of Cariology and Endodontology, China is catching up with or has exceeded the international professions. Over the past 70 years, China has made outstanding achievements in dental caries and endodontics. Regards to occlusal diseases, dental developmental diseases, pulp biology, pulp and periradicular diseases, and operative dentistry, a significant progress also has been made. While the articles published in the Chinese Journal of Stomatology represent only a portion of the approaches within Cariology and Endodontology, they nonetheless provide valuable insights into the development of these fields in China.

Combined Measurement of the Higgs Boson Mass from the H→γγ and H→ZZ^{*}→4ℓ Decay Channels with the ATLAS Detector Using sqrt[s]=7, 8, and 13 TeV pp Collision Data

A measurement of the mass of the Higgs boson combining the H→ZZ^{*}→4ℓ and H→γγ decay channels is presented. The result is based on 140  fb^{-1} of proton-proton collision data collected by the ATLAS detector during LHC run 2 at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV combined with the run 1 ATLAS mass measurement, performed at center-of-mass energies of 7 and 8 TeV, yielding a Higgs boson mass of 125.11±0.09(stat)±0.06(syst)=125.11±0.11  GeV. This corresponds to a 0.09% precision achieved on this fundamental parameter of the Standard Model of particle physics.

Search for Dark Photons in Rare Z Boson Decays with the ATLAS Detector

A search for events with a dark photon produced in association with a dark Higgs boson via rare decays of the standard model Z boson is presented, using 139  fb^{-1} of sqrt[s]=13  TeV proton-proton collision data recorded by the ATLAS detector at the Large Hadron Collider. The dark boson decays into a pair of dark photons, and at least two of the three dark photons must each decay into a pair of electrons or muons, resulting in at least two same-flavor opposite-charge lepton pairs in the final state. The data are found to be consistent with the background prediction, and upper limits are set on the dark photon's coupling to the dark Higgs boson times the kinetic mixing between the standard model photon and the dark photon, α_{D}ϵ^{2}, in the dark photon mass range of [5, 40] GeV except for the ϒ mass window [8.8, 11.1] GeV. This search explores new parameter space not previously excluded by other experiments.

Age-related promoter-switch regulates Runx1 expression in adult rat hearts

BACKGROUND

Runt-related transcription factor-1 (RUNX1), a key member of the core-binding factor family of transcription factors, has emerged as a novel therapeutic target for cardiovascular disease. There is an urgent need to fully understand the expression pattern of Runx1 in the heart and the mechanisms by which it is controlled under normal conditions and in response to disease. The expression of Runx1 is regulated at the transcriptional level by two promoters designated P1 and P2. Alternative usage of these two promoters creates differential mRNA transcripts diversified in distribution and translational potential. While the significance of P1/P2 promoter-switch in the transcriptional control of Runx1 has been highlighted in the embryogenic process, very little is known about the level of P1- and P2-specific transcripts in adult hearts, and the underlying mechanisms controlling the promoter-switch.

METHODS

To amplify P1/P2 specific sequences in the heart, we used two different sense primers complementary to either P1 or P2 5'-regions to monitor the expression of P1/P2 transcripts. DNA methylation levels were assessed at the Runx1 promoter regions. Rats were grouped by age.

RESULTS

The expression levels of both P1- and P2-derived Runx1 transcripts were decreased in older rats when compared with that in young adults, paralleled with an age-dependent decline in Runx1 protein level. Furthermore, older rats demonstrated a higher degree of DNA methylation at Runx1 promoter regions. Alternative promoter usage was observed in hearts with increased age, as reflected by altered P1:P2 mRNA ratio.

CONCLUSION

Our data demonstrate that the expression of Runx1 in the heart is age-dependent and underscore the importance of gene methylation in the promoter-mediated transcriptional control of Runx1, thereby providing new insights to the role of epigenetic regulation in the heart.

Observation of Single-Top-Quark Production in Association with a Photon Using the ATLAS Detector

This Letter reports the observation of single top quarks produced together with a photon, which directly probes the electroweak coupling of the top quark. The analysis uses 139  fb^{-1} of 13 TeV proton-proton collision data collected with the ATLAS detector at the Large Hadron Collider. Requiring a photon with transverse momentum larger than 20 GeV and within the detector acceptance, the fiducial cross section is measured to be 688±23(stat) _{-71}^{+75}(syst)  fb, to be compared with the standard model prediction of 515_{-42}^{+36}  fb at next-to-leading order in QCD.

Measurement of Suppression of Large-Radius Jets and Its Dependence on Substructure in Pb+Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02 TeV with the ATLAS Detector

This letter presents a measurement of the nuclear modification factor of large-radius jets in sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV Pb+Pb collisions by the ATLAS experiment. The measurement is performed using 1.72  nb^{-1} and 257  pb^{-1} of Pb+Pb and pp data, respectively. The large-radius jets are reconstructed with the anti-k_{t} algorithm using a radius parameter of R=1.0, by reclustering anti-k_{t} R=0.2 jets, and are measured over the transverse momentum (p_{T}) kinematic range of 158 Collapse

Key Words Collapse

MESH Headings Collapse

Grants Collapse

Measurement of the Sensitivity of Two-Particle Correlations in pp Collisions to the Presence of Hard Scatterings

A key open question in the study of multiparticle production in high-energy pp collisions is the relationship between the "ridge"-i.e., the observed azimuthal correlations between particles in the underlying event that extend over all rapidities-and hard or semihard scattering processes. In particular, it is not known whether jets or their soft fragments are correlated with particles in the underlying event. To address this question, two-particle correlations are measured in pp collisions at sqrt[s]=13  TeV using data collected by the ATLAS experiment at the LHC, with an integrated luminosity of 15.8  pb^{-1}, in two different configurations. In the first case, charged particles associated with jets are excluded from the correlation analysis, while in the second case, correlations are measured between particles within jets and charged particles from the underlying event. Second-order flow coefficients, v_{2}, are presented as a function of event multiplicity and transverse momentum. These measurements show that excluding particles associated with jets does not affect the measured correlations. Moreover, particles associated with jets do not exhibit any significant azimuthal correlations with the underlying event, ruling out hard processes contributing to the ridge.

Observation of an Excess of Dicharmonium Events in the Four-Muon Final State with the ATLAS Detector

A search is made for potential ccc[over ¯]c[over ¯] tetraquarks decaying into a pair of charmonium states in the four muon final state using proton-proton collision data at sqrt[s]=13  TeV, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 140  fb^{-1} recorded by the ATLAS experiment at LHC. Two decay channels, J/ψ+J/ψ→4μ and J/ψ+ψ(2S)→4μ, are studied. Backgrounds are estimated based on a hybrid approach involving Monte Carlo simulations and data-driven methods. Statistically significant excesses with respect to backgrounds dominated by the single parton scattering are seen in the di-J/ψ channel consistent with a narrow resonance at 6.9 GeV and a broader structure at lower mass. A statistically significant excess is also seen in the J/ψ+ψ(2S) channel. The fitted masses and decay widths of the structures are reported.

Observation of the γγ→ττ Process in Pb+Pb Collisions and Constraints on the τ-Lepton Anomalous Magnetic Moment with the ATLAS Detector

This Letter reports the observation of τ-lepton-pair production in ultraperipheral lead-lead collisions Pb+Pb→Pb(γγ→ττ)Pb and constraints on the τ-lepton anomalous magnetic moment a_{τ}. The dataset corresponds to an integrated luminosity of 1.44  nb^{-1} of LHC Pb+Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV recorded by the ATLAS experiment in 2018. Selected events contain one muon from a τ-lepton decay, an electron or charged-particle track(s) from the other τ-lepton decay, little additional central-detector activity, and no forward neutrons. The γγ→ττ process is observed in Pb+Pb collisions with a significance exceeding 5 standard deviations and a signal strength of μ_{ττ}=1.03_{-0.05}^{+0.06} assuming the standard model value for a_{τ}. To measure a_{τ}, a template fit to the muon transverse-momentum distribution from τ-lepton candidates is performed, using a dimuon (γγ→μμ) control sample to constrain systematic uncertainties. The observed 95% confidence-level interval for a_{τ} is -0.057 Collapse

Key Words Collapse

MESH Headings Collapse

Grants Collapse

Structure and luminescence properties of single-component melilite Sr2MgSi2O7:Ce/Tb/Sm for n-UV wLEDs

Phosphor-converted white light-emitting diodes (pc-wLEDs) have attracted attention in the field of solid-state lighting. Selection and study of suitable single-phase phosphor and packaging modes are currently the main research hotspots. Herein, color-tunable photoluminescence (PL) and thermally stable tri-doped Melitite Sr2MgSi2O7:Ce/Tb/Sm are systematically studied via structural and static/dynamic spectral analyses. All dopants could only be accommodated in the Sr site due to similar ionic radii. Previous studies have concluded that green and red PL could be obtained from singly doped Tb and Sm phosphors with excellent reproduction, and color tunable PL can be achieved from Ce/Tb co-doped phosphors. The forbidden 4f-4f transitions of Tb/Sm cause low efficiency and Ce/Tb co-doping cannot achieve white light emissions. Alternatively, co-doping allowed 5d-4f transition sensitizer with emissions in the UV-blue region (i.e., Ce), color-tunable PL (including the white light); high efficiency of Sr2MgSi2O7:Ce/Tb/Sm could be achieved via energy transfer (ET) from Ce → Tb → Sm. The impossibly direct ET from Ce → Sm is associated with the side metal-metal charge transfer (MMCT) effect. Due to chemically nonequivalent substitutions, two positive Ce(Tb,Sm)Sr and one negative V''Sr were created to maintain the whole charge balance. To reduce the defects and allow more dopants to enter into the Sr site, Na+ was added as a charge balancer to enhance PL efficiency. Furthermore, an alkaline-earth-metal-ions blending strategy via partial replacement of Sr with Ba was investigated to regulate PL owing to the change in crystal field splitting. PL blue-shifted by Ba-co-doping, which could increase the degree of overlapping and enhance ET efficiency. As a proof-of-concept experiment, the pc-wLED fabricated via a combination of the optimal Sr(Ba)2MgSi2O7:Ce/Tb/Sm/Na and an n-UV LED chip based on a remote 'capping' packaging mode shows excellent performances, indicating its strong potential application in the field of solid-state lighting.

Strong Constraints on Jet Quenching in Centrality-Dependent p+Pb Collisions at 5.02 TeV from ATLAS

Jet quenching is the process of color-charged partons losing energy via interactions with quark-gluon plasma droplets created in heavy-ion collisions. The collective expansion of such droplets is well described by viscous hydrodynamics. Similar evidence of collectivity is consistently observed in smaller collision systems, including pp and p+Pb collisions. In contrast, while jet quenching is observed in Pb+Pb collisions, no evidence has been found in these small systems to date, raising fundamental questions about the nature of the system created in these collisions. The ATLAS experiment at the Large Hadron Collider has measured the yield of charged hadrons correlated with reconstructed jets in 0.36  nb^{-1} of p+Pb and 3.6  pb^{-1} of pp collisions at 5.02 TeV. The yields of charged hadrons with p_{T}^{ch}>0.5  GeV near and opposite in azimuth to jets with p_{T}^{jet}>30 or 60 GeV, and the ratios of these yields between p+Pb and pp collisions, I_{pPb}, are reported. The collision centrality of p+Pb events is categorized by the energy deposited by forward neutrons from the struck nucleus. The I_{pPb} values are consistent with unity within a few percent for hadrons with p_{T}^{ch}>4  GeV at all centralities. These data provide new, strong constraints that preclude almost any parton energy loss in central p+Pb collisions.

Test of CP Invariance in Higgs Boson Vector-Boson-Fusion Production Using the H→γγ Channel with the ATLAS Detector

A test of CP invariance in Higgs boson production via vector-boson fusion has been performed in the H→γγ channel using 139  fb^{-1} of proton-proton collision data at sqrt[s]=13  TeV collected by the ATLAS detector at the LHC. The optimal observable method is used to probe the CP structure of interactions between the Higgs boson and electroweak gauge bosons, as described by an effective field theory. No sign of CP violation is observed in the data. Constraints are set on the parameters describing the strength of the CP-odd component in the coupling between the Higgs boson and the electroweak gauge bosons in two effective field theory bases: d[over ˜] in the HISZ basis and c_{HW[over ˜]} in the Warsaw basis. The results presented are the most stringent constraints on CP violation in the coupling between Higgs and weak bosons. The 95% C.L. constraint on d[over ˜] is derived for the first time and the 95% C.L. constraint on c_{HW[over ˜]} has been improved by a factor of 5 compared to the previous measurement.

[Efficacy of polyetheretherketone rod hybrid surgery in preventing proximal junctional failure after adult spinal deformity surgery]

Objective: To investigate the clinical outcome and preventive effect of polyetheretherketone(PEEK) rod hybrid surgery on proximal junction failure(PJF) after long-segment fusion of adult spinal deformity. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted to analyze patients with degenerative scoliosis/kyphosis who underwent long-segment decompression and fusion surgery at Department of Orthopedics, Peking University First Hospital from January 2017 to December 2021. A total of 75 patients were included in the study, including 14 males and 61 females, aged (67.2±6.8)years (range:55 to 84 years). According to the operation method chosen by the patients, the patients were divided into PEEK rod hybrid group (20 cases) and traditional titanium rod group (55 cases). The general information of the patients was collected, and the coronal and sagittal parameters of the spine were measured before operation, at 1 month after operation, and at the last follow-up. The clinical effect of surgery was judged by the visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI). Whether proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) and PJF occurred during the follow-up and the time of occurrence were recorded. Comparisons between groups were performed using independent sample t test, Mann-Whitney U test, χ2 test and Fisher's exact probability method. The data before and after surgery in the same group were compared using the paired sample t test and the Wilcoxon test. Results: There were no significant differences in age, gender, body mass index, bone mineral density, distal instrumented vertebrae, surgical segments, osteotomy method, operation time, and intraoperative bleeding between the two groups (all P>0.05). The follow-up time of the PEEK rod group was shorter(M(IQR)16.5(4.8) vs. 25.0(12.0),Z=-4.230,P<0.01). There were no significant differences in coronal, sagittal parameters, VAS and ODI between the two groups before operation (all P>0.05). Postoperative coronal Cobb angle, pelvic incidence, pelvic tilt, sacral slope, lumbar lordosis, thoracic kyphosis, sagittal vertical axis (SVA), VAS and ODI were significantly improved in both groups(all P<0.05). At the last follow-up, the SVA of the PEEK rod hybrid group was(3.74±2.40)cm, which was significantly lower than that of the titanium rod group (6.28±4.06)cm (t'=-3.318, P=0.002). At the last follow-up, the ODI of the PEEK rod hybrid group was 30.7±6.1, significantly better than the titanium rod group 39.3±17.2(t=-3.203, P=0.046). PJK occurred in 2 patients (10.0%) in the PEEK rod hybrid group, and no PJF phenomenon was observed. In the titanium rod group, 18 patients (32.7%) developed PJK, and 11 patients (20.0%) developed PJF. There was a statistically significant difference in the incidence of PJF between the PEEK rod hybrid group and the titanium rod group (P=0.031). Conclusions: PEEK rod hybrid surgery can achieve good clinical results in the treatment of adult spinal deformities. Compared with traditional titanium rod surgery, it can significantly reduce the incidence of postoperative PJF and improve the clinical function of patients.

Effect of phosphorus doping on the luminescence intensity of Si-NC in SiO/Si multilayers

The application of silicon nanocrystals (Si-NC) is somewhat limited due to their low luminescence intensity. Therefore, it is of interest to investigate methods for enhancing the luminescence intensity of Si-NC. In this study, phosphorus (P)-doped Si-NC with two different doping methods were prepared by electron beam thermal evaporation: in-situ doping (during synthesis) and ex-situ doping (after synthesis). The photoluminescence (PL) intensity and crystallinity of Si-NC can be enhanced through phosphorus doping. Moreover, a comparison between two different methods of Si-NC doping reveals that the luminescence intensity of in-situ P-doped Si-NC is superior to that of ex-situ P-doped Si-NC, which is increased by an order of magnitude compared to the PL intensity of undoped Si-NC.

[Changing scanning angles on improving finish line trueness of the full crown preparation]

Objective: To explore the effect of scanning methods on finish line trueness of the full crown preparation. Methods: The standard full crown preparation model of the right maxillary first molars was prepared by using the maxillary standard resin dentition model. The standard preparation was scanned by imetric scanner and data were used as the true value. CEREC Omnicam and 3Shape TRIOS were used to scan the standard preparation. According to the scanning methods, they were divided into parallel scanning group, occlusal wave scanning group and buccolingual wave scanning group. Each group was scanned repeatedly 6 times. The data were imported into Geomagic Studio 2013 software, and the local finish line image data of the mesial, distal, buccal and lingual regions of the full crown preparation were extracted respectively. Three-dimensional deviation analysis was performed with the reference true value, and the root- mean-square error (RMSE) was the evaluation index of scanning trueness. The statistical method was one-way ANOVA. Results: Parallel scanning group: in general, the RMSE value of complete finish lines of scanner B [(35±6) μm] was significantly lower than that of scanner A [(44±7) μm](P<0.05). After scanner A occlusal wave scanning, the RMSE values of the mesial and distal finish lines [(33±5) and (50±12) μm] were significantly lower than those of parallel scanning group (P<0.05). After buccal and lingual wave scanning, the RMSE values of local finish lines in the mesial, distal, buccal and lingual regions [(37±3), (50±6), (28±6) and (29±8) μm] were significantly lower than those in parallel scanning group [(45±9), (63±7), (38±3) and (40±3) μm] (P<0.05). No significant difference was found in the RMSE values of the mesial, distal, buccal and lingual regions of scanner B between parallel scanning group, occlusal wave scanning group and buccolingual scanning group (P>0.05). Conclusions: The scanning trueness of the full crown preparation finish line obtained by the active triangulation scanning equipment can be improved by changing the scanning method to wave scanning.

[Pathogenesis and classification of tooth resorption]

Tooth resorption is an idiopathic destructive disease of dental hard tissues. The etiology and pathogenesis remain obscure. It has various manifestations and can be commonly classified as internal tooth resorption and external root resorption on the basis of the resorptive lesion sites. There have been many attempts to make further classification based upon the pathological manifestations in recent years. Radiographic examination is an effective tool to assist in the diagnosis. There are few systematic researches on tooth resorption worldwide, most of which are case reports. This review elaborates on the research progress of tooth resorption from aspects of pathogenesis and classification.

Screening and validation for core genes in osteoarthritic cartilage based on weighted gene co-expression network analysis

OBJECTIVE

Osteoarthritis (OA) has the highest disability rate among chronic diseases. The burden on patients and public health care resources is increasingly evident due to increasing obesity rates and aging populations. So, there is still a lack of early diagnosis and treatment for OA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of three OA cartilage tissue datasets (GSE1919, GSE32317, and GSE5235) were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Screening of differentially expressed genes and WGCNA of overlapping genes were performed using the R language package. Functional and immune infiltration analyses of overlapping genes were also carried out while hub genes were screened through LASSO regression analysis method and ROC curve. Finally, experimental validation was carried out through PCR and Western Blot analysis of rat cartilage.

RESULTS

A total of 149 differentially expressed genes were screened, and they were mainly enriched in the cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, rheumatoid arthritis, and interleukin (IL-17) signaling pathways. Four co-expression modules were obtained, of which the blue module was the most substantial morbidity associated with OA. Thirteen overlapping genes were identified based on significant module network topology analysis and differential genes, upon which their validation through LASSO regression analysis method and ROC curve was performed. From these, five signature genes were determined, before three potential core genes were finally identified after confirmation using the validation set.

CONCLUSIONS

ATF3, FOSL2, and GADD45B may be hub genes to the osteochondropathy, and they are expected to be new biomarkers and drug targets in OA research.

[Correlation analysis between drought and outpatient visits for diarrhea in children aged 0-6 in Lanzhou city and Tianshui city, Gansu Province]

In this study, the data of pediatric diarrhea clinic of Gansu Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2018 and Tianshui First Hospital from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2018 were collected. Standardized precipitation index (SPI) and meteorological drought composite index (MCI) were used as drought indicators. Quasi-Poisson generalized additive model was used to analyze the correlation between drought and pediatric diarrhea outpatient visits. During the study period, the dry days in Lanzhou city and Tianshui city were 298 and 379 days according to SPI-1, 303 and 398 days according to MCI, respectively. There were 57 147 and 18 703 cases of diarrhea in children aged 0-6 years in Gansu Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital and Tianshui First Hospital, respectively. MCI and SPI (SPI-1) based on monthly precipitation were negatively correlated with the number of pediatric diarrhea outpatients. Compared with the non-drought period, SPI-1 showed the strongest correlation between middle drought and pediatric diarrhea outpatients, with an increase of 13.4% (95%CI: 7.9%-19.3%) and 20.0% (95%CI: 12.7%-27.8%) in Lanzhou city and Tianshui city, respectively. According to MCI, the outpatients with diarrhea in Tianshui children increased by 60.5% (95%CI: 3.4%-149.0%) due to extreme drought.

[Accuracy and retention of denture bases fabricated by injection molding, milling, and three-dimensional printing]

Objective: To compare the accuracy and retention of denture bases fabricated by injection molding, milling, and three-dimensional (3D) printing fabricating, in order to provide some references for clinical practice. Methods: A maxillary edentulous jaw model made was used to duplicated 10 working casts. The casts were numbered and scanned. The wax pattern was designed by digital ways and conventional methods and then the denture bases were fabricated by injection molding, milling, and 3D printing. The tissue surface of experimental denture base was obtained using a dental laboratory scanner. The deviation between the tissue surface of the fabricated denture bases and the working model was evaluated. A digital force gauge was used to measure the traction force. Results: The milling group [(0.076±0.026) mm] was more accurate than the 3D printing group [(0.117±0.041) mm] (P<0.05) and the injection group [(0.120± 0.025) mm] (P<0.05). The accuracy of 3D printing group and that of injection group were not statistically significant (P>0.05). The milling group [(9.55±2.44) N] demonstrated greater retentive force than 3D printing group [(5.19±0.06) N] and injection molding group [(1.52±0.52) N] (P<0.05). Conclusions: The denture base fabricated by milling was more accurate and showed the greatest retentive force than the other groups. And 3D printing group showed better retentive force than the injection molding group. Both digital manufacturing methods can meet the requirements of clinical application.

A detailed map of Higgs boson interactions by the ATLAS experiment ten years after the discovery

The standard model of particle physics1-4 describes the known fundamental particles and forces that make up our Universe, with the exception of gravity. One of the central features of the standard model is a field that permeates all of space and interacts with fundamental particles5-9. The quantum excitation of this field, known as the Higgs field, manifests itself as the Higgs boson, the only fundamental particle with no spin. In 2012, a particle with properties consistent with the Higgs boson of the standard model was observed by the ATLAS and CMS experiments at the Large Hadron Collider at CERN10,11. Since then, more than 30 times as many Higgs bosons have been recorded by the ATLAS experiment, enabling much more precise measurements and new tests of the theory. Here, on the basis of this larger dataset, we combine an unprecedented number of production and decay processes of the Higgs boson to scrutinize its interactions with elementary particles. Interactions with gluons, photons, and W and Z bosons-the carriers of the strong, electromagnetic and weak forces-are studied in detail. Interactions with three third-generation matter particles (bottom (b) and top (t) quarks, and tau leptons (τ)) are well measured and indications of interactions with a second-generation particle (muons, μ) are emerging. These tests reveal that the Higgs boson discovered ten years ago is remarkably consistent with the predictions of the theory and provide stringent constraints on many models of new phenomena beyond the standard model.

AB1388 CHARACTERISTICS ASSOCIATED WITH MYCHART ACTIVATION AND REASONS FOR NON-USE AMONG RHEUMATOLOGY CLINIC PATIENTS

Background

Electronic patient portals, such as MyChart by Epic, allow patients to view their medical records, request medication refills, and communicate with their health care providers. Factors associated with portal use include being younger, female, White, having private insurance, and having chronic illness.1

The Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) rheumatology clinic serves primarily patients with public insurance (Medicaid, which insures low-income adults, and Medicare, which insures adults >65 years old and those with eligible chronic illness/disability). These patients may be at increased risk for poor health outcomes due to clinical and socioeconomic factors and they are less likely to use MyChart than patients seen in HSS private practices. Increased MyChart use may benefit this high-risk group and improve health equity.

Objectives

This study aims to identify characteristics associated with MyChart activation and reasons for its underutilization among patients seen in the HSS rheumatology clinic.

Methods

We identified all patients aged ≥ 18 years seen in the HSS rheumatology clinic at least twice between January 15, 2019 and January 14, 2021, with at least one visit occurring between July 15, 2020 and January 14, 2021. MyChart status (active vs. inactive) and sociodemographic and clinical variables were extracted from the electronic health record (EHR). We used chi-square tests and t-tests to compare characteristics between patients with and without active MyChart; p-value <0.05 was considered significant (Table 1). In addition, 10 rheumatology fellows were prompted on 3 occasions over 6 weeks to informally survey their own clinic patients with inactive MyChart accounts by asking: “What is your primary reason for not using MyChart?”.

Table 1.

Baseline Characteristics of Hospital for Special Surgery Rheumatology Clinic Patients Stratified by MyChart Activation Status

MyChart Active (N=726)MyChart Inactive (N=501)p-valueAge, yrs - Mean (SD)50.3 (15.6)60.0 (15.3)<0.01Female - N (%)601 (82.8)412 (82.2)0.80Race - N (%)0.37•White/Caucasian275 (37.9)184 (36.7)•Black/African American185 (25.5)135 (27.0)•Asian58 (8.0)25 (5.0)•Other189 (26.0)145 (28.9)•Unknown18 (2.5)11 (2.2)Ethnicity - N (%)0.27•Hispanic/Latino294 (40.5)226 (45.1)•Not Hispanic/Latino422 (58.1)268 (53.5)•Unknown10 (1.4)7 (1.4)Preferred language - N (%)<0.01•English611 (84.2)332 (66.3)•Spanish72 (9.9)134 (26.8)•Other43 (5.9)35 (7.0)Needs interpreter - N (%)106 (14.6)156 (31.1)<0.01

Results

There were 1,227 patients included (93.2% with Medicaid and/or Medicare insurance). Compared to patients with inactive MyChart (42.9%), those with active MyChart (57.1%) were younger (50.3 ± 15.6 vs. 60.0 ± 15.3 years, p<0.01). The majority of patients in both groups was female. There was no significant difference in race or ethnicity between groups. Patients without active MyChart were less likely to identify English as their preferred language and more likely to require an interpreter for clinic visits (Table 1).

The rheumatology fellows collectively asked 16 clinic patients with inactive MyChart their primary reason for non-use. The most commonly cited reason was difficulty using the technology (n=8; 50.0%); others included visual impairment (n=2; 12.5%), preference for using the telephone (n=2; 12.5%), concerns about security/spam (n=2; 12.5%), not having a smart phone/computer (n=1; 6.3%), and having a language barrier (n=1; 6.3%).

Conclusion

In the HSS rheumatology clinic, patients who did not have active MyChart were older and less likely to be English-speaking than those who did. The most common barrier to MyChart use reported by patients was difficulty with the technology. This pilot data suggests a need for interventions to facilitate patient-provider communication, specifically targeting older and non-English-speaking rheumatology clinic patients, with the goal of advancing patient engagement and health equity.

References

[1]Ancker JS, et al. J Gen Intern Med. 2011 June 7. doi: 10.1007/s11606-011-1749-y.

Disclosure of Interests

Caroline Siegel: None declared, Anne Bass: None declared, Deanna Jannat-Khah Shareholder of: AstraZeneca, Walgreens, Cytodyn, Omar Bruce: None declared, Justin Olmscheid: None declared, Nilasha Ghosh: None declared, Sebastian E. Sattui Grant/research support from: AstraZeneca, Monica Schwartzman: None declared, Diane Zisa: None declared, Amit Lakhanpal: None declared, Kevin Yip: None declared, Linda Yue: None declared, Juliet Aizer Grant/research support from: Pfizer and Lilly, Jessica Berman: None declared

Relationship between Helicobacter pylori and Incident Hypertension as well as Blood Pressure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) may be a risk factor for hypertension, but the reported studies have given conflicting results. This study aimed to explore the association between H. pylori infection and hypertension risk and blood pressure.

METHOD

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CNKI, Weipu, and Wanfang databases were searched for articles published up to June 2, 2021. Dual-selection and data abstraction were conducted. Random-effect models were used to measure pooled estimates. All data were analyzed with Stata 14.0 SE (StataCorp, College Station, TX, USA).

RESULTS

A total of 55 studies with 198,750 individuals were included in the meta-analysis. Among them, 33 studies reported the relationship between H. pylori infection and the risk of hypertension, and 25 studies reported the association of H. pylori infection with systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). Three studies reported both of the above. Meta-analysis showed that H. pylori infection increased the risk of hypertension by 32% (odd ratio: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.15-1.52). Compared with non-H. pylori-infection individuals, the subjects with H. pylori infection had elevated levels of SBP (WMD: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.21-2.50) and DBP (WMD: 1.12, 95% CI: 0.81-1.43).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis suggested that H. pylori infection increased the risk of hypertension. This may provide a new strategy for hypertension prevention. However, the association between H. pylori infection and hypertension needs to be confirmed in further prospective cohort studies.

Risk Score Prediction Model of Prognosis in GC Patients by Age and Gender Combined With m6A Modification Genes FTO and RBM15

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) has a high mortality rate. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is involved in the development of GC. Age and gender are associated with GC incidence and survival. This study aimed to explore the risk score prediction model of prognosis in GC patients by age and gender combined with m6A modification genes.

Methods: Data on m6A modification gene expression and clinical information downloaded from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database were used to construct the risk score prediction model. Cox and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression were performed to identify clinical characteristics and m6A modification genes associated with prognosis. A risk score prediction model was established based on multivariate Cox regression analysis. The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database was used to validate this model.

Results: Most of the m6A modification genes were upregulated in GC tumor tissues compared with that in normal tissues and were correlated with clinical characteristics including grade, stage status, and T status. The risk score prediction model was established based on age, gender, FTO, and RBM15. GC patients were divided into high- or low-risk groups based on the median risk score. Patients with a high risk score had poor prognosis. Multivariate Cox regression indicated that risk score was an independent prognostic factor for GC patients. The data from GSE84437 verified the predictive value of this model.

Conclusion: The risk score prediction model based on age and gender combined with m6A modification genes FTO and RBM15 was an independent prognostic factor for GC patients.

Sternum-mental angle: A new predictor of difficult. Laryngeal exposure in suspension microsurgery - An observational study

OBJECTIVES

In our study, we hypothesized that sternum-mental angle (SMA) was a totally new preoperative predictor of difficult laryngeal exposure (DLE). The main objective of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic utility of SMA in predicting DLE in patients undergoing suspension microlaryngeal surgery, and we also searched for risk factors among the selected parameters.

METHODS

A total of 95 patients with vocal cord dysfunction who underwent microlaryngeal surgery were collected. According to the Cormack-Lehane classification method, the patients were divided into non-DLE group (n=73) and DLE group (n=22). Preoperative assessments included age, sex, body mass index (BMI), Modified Mallampati's index (MMI), neck circumference (NC), thyroid-mental distance at neutral position (TMD-NP), TMD at full extension position (TMD-FE), sternum-mental distance at neutral position (SMD-NP), SMD at full extension position (SMD-FE), SMA at neutral position (SMA-NP) and SMA at full extension position (SMA-FE). SMA was defined as the angle between the horizontal line and the line from upper border of the manubrium sterni to mental prominence, and SMA's ability to predict difficult laryngoscopy was compared with that of established predictors.

RESULTS

The DLE incidence of the enrolled patients was 23%. Univariate analysis showed that patients in DLE group presented significantly smaller SMA values. SMA-NP less than 13 provided 68.2% sensitivity and 83.6% specificity and SMA-FE less than 22.5 provided 86.4% sensitivity and 80.8% specificity for the detection of DLE. SMA-FE (≤22.5) exhibited the largest area under the curve (AUC: 0.868; 95% CI: 0.784-0.952), confirming its better predictive ability. Binary multivariate logistic regression analyses identified four risk factors including MMI, TMD-FE, TMD-NP which were independently associated with DLE.

CONCLUSIONS

SMA is a new and simple predictor with a higher level of efficacy, and could help otorhinolaryngologist plan for managements in patients with DLE.

[Biological basis and clinical exploration of regenerative endodontic therapy]

Regenerative endodontic therapy is a tissue engineering based approach of treatment for endodontic disease. Its purpose is to achieve the regeneration of the pulp-dentin complex, thus to promote root development of the immature permanent tooth with necrotic pulp. Like other treatments based on tissue engineering techniques, the success of regenerative pulp therapy depends on such three elements as seed cells, scaffold materials and growth factors. Since its inception 20 years ago, there have been various terminologies in the literature, with similarities and differences in connotation. The present article summarizes and analyzes the term evolution, biological basis, clinical considerations and future scientific research directions of regenerative endodontics, in order to find out the unsolved scientific problems and to promote the development and standardization of this technique in clinical practice.

Enhanced superconductivity and ferroelectric quantum criticality in plastically deformed strontium titanate

The properties of quantum materials are commonly tuned using experimental variables such as pressure, magnetic field and doping. Here we explore a different approach using irreversible, plastic deformation of single crystals. We show that compressive plastic deformation induces low-dimensional superconductivity well above the superconducting transition temperature (T_c) of undeformed SrTiO₃, with evidence of possible superconducting correlations at temperatures two orders of magnitude above the bulk T_c. The enhanced superconductivity is correlated with the appearance of self-organized dislocation structures, as revealed by diffuse neutron and X-ray scattering. We also observe deformation-induced signatures of quantum-critical ferroelectric fluctuations and inhomogeneous ferroelectric order using Raman scattering. Our results suggest that strain surrounding the self-organized dislocation structures induces local ferroelectricity and quantum-critical dynamics that strongly influence T_c, consistent with a theory of superconductivity enhanced by soft polar fluctuations. Our results demonstrate the potential of plastic deformation and dislocation engineering for the manipulation of electronic properties of quantum materials.

Promoting effect of the recombinant resuscitation promoting factors-2 of Rhodococcus erythropolis on petroleum degradation and cultivable bacterial diversities of the oil-contaminated soils

Resuscitation-promoting factors (Rpfs) belong to peptidoglycan hydrolases, which participate in recovery of dormant cells and promoting bacteria growth. In this study, the resuscitation promoting factor rpf2 gene of Rhodococcus erythropolis KB1 was expressed in Escherichia coli and purified by Ni²⁺ affinity chromatography. The purified recombinant fusion protein Rpf2 showed a closely 50 kDa band on sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The protein showed muralytic activity, with a specific activity of 1503 ± 123 U mg^-1 when determined with 4-methylumbelliferyl-β-d-N, N',N″-triacetotri-ylchitoside as substrate. It also showed protease activity when measured with azocasein as substrate, with a specific activity of 1528 ± 411 U mg^-1 . The addition of the recombinant Rpf2 protein significantly increased petroleum degradation efficiency of the indigenous micro-organisms and the petroleum degradation rates increased from 30·86 to 43·45%, 45·20 and 49·23% in the treatment groups. The recombinant protein also increased the petroleum-degrading bacterial diversities enriched from the contaminated soils. The cultivable bacterial flora of the treatment groups supplemented with different concentrations of Rpf2 increased from 82 genera in 9 phyla to 116 genera in 16 phyla and 138 genera in 16 phyla respectively. Thirteen extra petroleum-degrading bacteria strains were isolated from the petroleum-contaminated soils in the groups containing the recombinant Rpf2.

Activation of SGLT3a in endometrial epithelial cells induces paracrine stromal cell decidualization

Endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) and stromal cells (ESCs) have a close functional association. During the peri-implantation period, EECs with enhanced functional activities secrete a variety of paracrine factors to promote the decidualization of ESCs. However, little is known about the specific process by which EECs secrete paracrine factors to induce the decidualization of ESCs. Some evidence suggests that the activation of sodium-glucose cotransporter 3a (SGLT3a) induces the depolarization of ESCs to affect their function. Therefore, SGLT3a acts as a sensor molecule in certain cell types. In this study, the expression of SGLT3a was investigated in EECs to determine whether its levels increased during the peri-implantation period in female mice. The activation of SGLT3a in mouse EECs induced Na⁺ -dependent depolarization of the cell membrane and an influx of extracellular Ca²⁺ , which further promoted the expression and release of the paracrine factors prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and F2-alpha (PGF2α) by upregulating the expression of cyclooxygenase-2. In turn, PGE2 and PGF2α induced the decidualization of ESCs. Importantly, we identified SGLT3a as a key molecule involved in the cross-talk between EECs and ESCs during the process of uterine decidualization.

The burden of caring for adults with depression and suicidal ideation in five large European countries: analysis from the 2020 National Health and Wellness Survey

BACKGROUND

Suicidal ideation (SI) affects approximately 30-40% of those with major depressive disorder (MDD). To date, studies have examined the substantial humanistic and economic burden to caregivers of persons with MDD, however little is known of the impact of caring for persons with MDD when SI is present. This study examined the additional burden imposed on caregivers for persons with unipolar depression and SI in five major European countries.

METHODS

A retrospective, cross-sectional analysis was conducted in five European countries using 2020 Europe National Health Wellness Survey (France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom) to compare differences in health and economic outcomes between caregivers of adults with unipolar depression and SI (CAUD-SI) and caregivers of adults with unipolar depression without SI (CAUD-nSI). The outcomes assessed included health-related quality of life (HRQoL; Medical Outcomes Study Short Form [SF-12v2]), health status (Short-Form 6 Dimension [SF-6D], EuroQol 5-Dimension 5-Level [EQ-5D-5L]), Work productivity and activity impairment (WPAI) and healthcare resource utilization (HRU). Linear mixed models and generalized linear mixed models adjusted for covariates were used to compare the two groups on outcomes of interest.

RESULTS

Of 62,319 respondents, 0.89% (n = 554) were CAUD-SI and 1.34% (n = 837) were CAUD-nSI. In adjusted models, CAUD-SI reported greater humanistic burden than CAUD-nSI, with lower HRQoL (PCS: 42.7 vs. 45.0, p < 0.001 and MCS: 37.5 vs. 38.9, p = 0.007) and health status (SF-6D: 0.57 vs 0.60, p < 0.001 and EQ-5D-5L: 0.58 vs 0.66, p < 001). CAUD-SI respondents reported significantly higher economic burden than CAUD-nSI respondents for WPAI (percent activity impairment: 64.9% vs. 52.5%, p = 0.026) and HRU (provider visits: 10.0 vs. 7.9, p < 0.001, emergency room visits: 1.49 vs. 0.73, p < 0.001 and hospitalizations: 1.03 vs. 0.52, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

In five European countries, caregivers of adults with depression and SI experience additional humanistic and economic burden than caregivers of adults with depression and no SI. Distinguishing caregiver groupings and their unique burden provide important insights for providing targeted support and interventions for both the patient and caregiver.

Evaluation of the prognostic value of CBXs in gastric cancer patients

Chromobox (CBX) proteins were suggested to exert epigenetic regulatory and transcriptionally repressing effects on target genes and might play key roles in the carcinogenesis of a variety of carcinomas. Nevertheless, the functions and prognostic significance of CBXs in gastric cancer (GC) remain unclear. The current study investigated the roles of CBXs in the prognosis of GC using the Oncomine, The Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA), UALCAN, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and cBioPortal databases. CBX1/2/3/4/5 were significantly upregulated in GC tissues compared with normal tissues, and CBX7 was downregulated. Multivariate analysis showed that high mRNA expression levels of CBX3/8 were independent prognostic factors for prolonged OS in GC patients. In addition, the genetic mutation rate of CBXs was 37% in GC patients, and genetic alterations in CBXs showed no association with OS or disease-free survival (DFS) in GC patients. These results indicated that CBX3/8 can be prognostic biomarkers for the survival of GC patients.

Recombination Lactococcus lactis expressing Helicobacter pylori neutrophil-activating protein A attenuates food allergy symptoms in mice

BACKGROUND

Food allergy has been a significant public health issue with growing severity, prevalence and limited treatments. The neutrophil-activating protein A subunit (NapA) of Helicobacter pylori has been shown to have therapeutic potential in allergic diseases.

METHODS

The NapA expression efficiency of recombinant Lactococcus lactis(L.lactis) were determined. The effects of recombinant bacterium on food allergy in Balb/c mice were also investigated.

RESULTS

NapA were delivered and expressed efficiently via L. lactis. The engineered bacterium ameliorated food allergy symptoms (acute diarrhea and intestinal inflammation) and decreased serum histamine levels. In addition, the secretion of OVA-specific IgG2a, IFN-γ was promoted and the level of IL-4, OVA-specific IgE was restrained.

CONCLUSIONS

The recombinant strain may attenuate food allergy in mice through immune regulatory effect, which may be a promising approach for preventing or treating food allergy.

[Management and improving the marginal adaptation of chairside computer aided design/computer aided manufacturing restorations]

The fabrication process of restorations made by chairside computer aided design/computer aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) is different from the conventional fabrication techniques. Chairside CAD/CAM system with digital intraoral scanning and in-practice milling device allows for a quick manufacturing of restorations. However, many factors involved in the clinical and CAD/CAM workflow may affect the clinical outcomes, especially the marginal adaptation of the restorations. This commentary summarizes the factors affecting the marginal adaptation of CAD/CAM restorations and recommends the solutions to achieve improved clinical outcomes.

Long non-coding RNA OIP5-AS1 promotes proliferation of gastric cancer cells by targeting miR-641

OBJECTIVE

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as pivotal regulators of various tumors. Currently, lncRNA OPI5-AS1 (OPI5-AS1) has been identified as a tumor suppressor gene involved in several cancers. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the function of OPI5-AS1 in gastric cancer (GC) progression.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to detect the expressions of OPI5-AS1 and microRNA-641 (miR-641) in tissues and cells. The Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), colony formation, and 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EDU) assays were used to verify the effect of OPI5-AS1 on cell proliferation. Cell cycle distribution was detected by flow cytometry. Furthermore, Western blot was performed to detect the protein expressions of cyclin D1 and p-AKT.

RESULTS

OPI5-AS1 was significantly upregulated, while miR-641 was downregulated in GC tissues and cells. OPI5-AS1 expression was remarkably inversely correlated with miR-641 in GC. Moreover, OPI5-AS1 could sponge miR-641 and regulate its expression in GC cells. Functional experiments showed that OPI5-AS1 overexpression remarkably accelerated GC cell proliferation and cell cycle. However, miR-641 overexpression could reverse the functional effects induced by OPI5-AS1 overexpression.

CONCLUSIONS

OPI5-AS1 overexpression promotes tumorigenesis and development of GC by sponging miR-106a-5p. In addition, our findings suggest that OPI5-AS1 may serve as an innovative and prospective therapeutic target for GC.

The correlation between body mass index and prostatic-related parameters in men 40 years or older in Zhengzhou

PURPOSE

To understand the relationship between body mass index (BMI), age, prostate volume (PV), prostate-specific antigen (PSA), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and quality of life (QoL) in Zhengzhou.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the cross-sectional study, men living in Zhengzhou were invited to participate in this study. Men who were 40 years or older were subjected to the IPSS and related examination. A total of 1360 participants were included. Body mass index < 18.5 kg/m² was determined as underweight, 18.5-24.99 kg/m² normal, 25-29.99 kg/m² overweight, and ≥30 kg/m² obese.

RESULTS

The mean BMI was 24.92 ± 3.37 kg/m². The mean PSA was 1.06 ± 0.85 ng/mL. The mean PV was 20.10 ± 9.96 mL. The mean age was 62.72 ± 11.03 years. The mean IPSS was 5.87 ± 3.48 scores. The mean QoL was 2.33 ± 1.28 scores. PSA showed a significant tendency to decrease with increasing BMI (r = -0.061, p = 0.018, p_trend = 0.037). The same with age (r = -0.109, p < .001; p_trend = .045). But the result suggested that both IPSS and QoL were positively correlated with BMI (r = 0.120, p < .001, p_trend < .001; r = 0.083, p = .001, p_trend = .021, respectively). PV increased with increasing BMI (r = 0.110, p < .001, p_trend = 0.045 ).

CONCLUSIONS

Age, PSA decreased with increasing BMI. But larger PV, IPSS, and QoL were associated with higher BMI.

MiR-125b Improves acute myocardial infarction in rats by regulating P38/Sirtl/P53 signaling pathway

The aim of this study was to investigate the differential expression of micro ribonucleic acid (miR)- 125b in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) cases, and to explore the mechanism by which it affects cardiac function. Sprague-Dawley rats were used for AMI modeling, and the expression of miR-125b in the myocardial tissues of AMI rats was detected via fluorescence quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Thereafter, the target genes of miR-125b were collected and uploaded to WenGestalt for gene ontology (GO) and pathway enrichment analyses. In-vitro experiments were then applied to determine the p38-sirtuin 1 (Sirt1)-p53 expression change and cardiomyocyte apoptosis under down-regulation of miR-125b. Next, the interaction between miR-125b and its target genes was verified by luciferase reporter gene assay. The expression of miR-125b in the cardiac tissues was decreased in theAMI group compared with that in the Sham group (p<0.05). The luciferase reporter gene assay confirmed that p38 was the target gene of miR-125b. Furthermore, the down-regulated expression of miR-125b in H9C2 cells up-regulated the protein expressions of p38 and phosphorylated p38, thus activating the Sirt1-p53 signaling pathway. Moreover, the down-regulation of miR-125b expression in H9C2 cells gave rise to the elevated apoptosis rate, and the down-regulated expression of miR-125b induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis through activating the p38-Sirt1-p53 signaling pathway.

Superior CO2 uptake on nitrogen doped carbonaceous adsorbents from commercial phenolic resin

In this study, N-doped porous carbons were produced with commercial phenolic resin as the raw material, urea as the nitrogen source and KOH as the activation agent. Different from conventional carbonization-nitriding-activation three-step method, a facile two-step process was explored to produce N-incorporated porous carbons. The as-obtained adsorbents hold superior CO₂ uptake, i.e. 5.01 and 7.47 mmol/g at 25 °C and 0 °C under 1 bar, respectively. The synergistic effects of N species on the surface and narrow micropores of the adsorbents decide their CO₂ uptake under 25 °C and atmospheric pressure. These phenolic resin-derived adsorbents also possess many extremely promising CO₂ adsorption features like good recyclability, quick adsorption kinetics, modest heat of adsorption, great selectivity of CO₂ over N₂ and outstanding dynamic adsorption capacity. Cheap precursor, easy preparation strategy and excellent CO₂ adsorption properties make these phenolic resin-derived N-doped carbonaceous adsorbents highly promising in CO₂ capture.

[Droplets and aerosols in dental clinics and prevention and control measures of infection]

Spraying during dental practices can generate a large number of droplets, which may transform into droplet nuclei and suspend in the air of clinic in the form of aerosol. Either droplets or aerosols may carry microorganisms and cause air contamination in the hospital, posing potential threat to the health of clinical healthcare staff and patients. The present article summarizes some basic concepts involved in bio-aerosol research and reviews literatures on intervention measures of dental clinic droplet/aerosols to clarify whether there is experimental evidence of aerosol-carrying bacteria in the existing literatures. The aim of the present review article is to provide evidence for the formulation of guidelines for infection control in dental healthcare practices during the pandemic period of infectious diseases, as well as to provide reference and scientific basis for the management and implementation of infection control measures in daily dental clinical work.

Identifying gene-environment interactions on the efficacy of folic acid therapy for hyperhomocysteinemia based on prediction model

Various genetic and environmental factors or their interactions may result in the failure of folic acid therapy for hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy). We hypothesized that an optimal predictive model of gene-environment interactions could be constructed to predict the efficacy of folic acid therapy in HHcy. A prospective cohort study of 638 HHcy patients was performed. The patients were treated with oral folic acid (5 mg/d) for 90 days. We used conditional inference tree model to stratify the failure risk of folic acid therapy synthesizing information from a weighted genetic risk score (wGRS) and environmental exposures, simultaneously interpreting the gene-environment interaction network in predicting the efficacy of HHcy. We detected high-order interactions between medical history of stroke, coronary heart disease (CHD), wGRS, and baseline total homocysteine (tHcy) on the failure risk of folic acid therapy. The wGRS in fourth quartile had 3.73-fold increased failure risk of folic acid treatment (odds ratio = 3.73, 95% confidence interval: 1.47-9.45). Stroke was identified as the key discriminator among the variables examined. A total of 3.3% of participants in failure group were at the lowest failure risk of folic acid therapy (nonstroke, non-CHD, baseline tHcy ≤ 31.1 μmol/L, wGRS ≤ 1.05). Individuals with stroke but with wGRS > 1.05 were at the highest failure risk of folic acid therapy (91.0% of participants in failure group). Medical history of stroke, CHD, wGRS, and baseline tHcy were consistently identified as significant risk factors for the failure risk of folic acid therapy. The multiple interactions between genetic and environmental factors can be visually presented via the conditional inference tree model.