Fat and proteolysis due to methionine, tryptophan, and niacin deficiency leads to alterations in gut microbiota and immune modulation in inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is one of the intractable diseases. Nutritional components associated with IBD have been identified, and it is known that excessive methionine intake exacerbates inflammation, and that tryptophan metabolism is involved in inflammation. Analysis of the gut microbiota has also progressed, where Lactobacillus regulate immune cells in the intestine and suppress inflammation. However, whether the methionine and tryptophan metabolic pathways affect the growth of intestinal Lactobacillus is unknown. Here we show how transient methionine, tryptophan, and niacin deficiency affects the host and gut microbiota in mouse models of colitis (induced by dextran sodium sulfate) fed a methionine-deficient diet (1K), tryptophan and niacin-deficient diet (2K), or methionine, tryptophan, and niacin-deficient diet (3K). These diets induced body weight decrease and 16S rRNA analysis of mouse feces revealed the alterations in the gut microbiota, leading to a dramatic increase in the proportion of Lactobacillus in mice. Intestinal RNA sequencing data confirmed that the expression of several serine proteases and fat-metabolizing enzymes were elevated in mice fed with methionine, tryptophan, and niacin (MTN) deficient diet. In addition, one-carbon metabolism and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) pathway activation were also induced with MTN deficiency. Furthermore, changes in the expression of various immune-related cytokines were observed. These results indicate that methionine, tryptophan, and niacin metabolisms are important for the composition of intestinal bacteria and host immunity. Taken together, MTN deficiencies may serve as a Great Reset of gut microbiota and host gene expression to return to good health.

High N6-methyladenosine-activated TCEAL8 mRNA is a novel pancreatic cancer marker

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is an RNA modification involved in RNA processing and widely found in transcripts. In cancer cells, m6A is upregulated, contributing to their malignant transformation. In this study, we analyzed gene expression and m6A modification in cancer tissues, ducts, and acinar cells derived from pancreatic cancer patients using MeRIP-seq. We found that dozens of RNAs highly modified by m6A were detected in cancer tissues compared with ducts and acinar cells. Among them, the m6A-activated mRNA TCEAL8 was observed, for the first time, as a potential marker gene in pancreatic cancer. Spatially resolved transcriptomic analysis showed that TCEAL8 was highly expressed in specific cells, and activation of cancer-related signaling pathways was observed relative to TCEAL8-negative cells. Furthermore, among TCEAL8-positive cells, the cells expressing the m6A-modifying enzyme gene METTL3 showed co-activation of Notch and mTOR signaling, also known to be involved in cancer metastasis. Overall, these results suggest that m6A-activated TCEAL8 is a novel marker gene involved in the malignant transformation of pancreatic cancer.

RN7SL1 may be translated under oncogenic conditions

RN7SL1 (RNA component of signal recognition particle 7SL1), a component of the signal recognition particle, is a non-coding RNA possessing a small ORF (smORF). However, whether it is translated into peptides is unknown. Here, we generated the RN7SL1-Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) gene, in which the smORF of RN7SL1 was replaced by GFP, introduced it into 293T cells, and observed cells emitting GFP fluorescence. Furthermore, RNA-seq of GFP-positive cells revealed that they were in an oncogenic state, suggesting that RN7SL1 smORF may be translated under special conditions.

RNA methylation in inflammatory bowel disease

RNA modifications, including the renowned m6A, have recently garnered significant attention. This chemical alteration, present in mRNA, exerts a profound influence on protein expression levels by affecting splicing, nuclear export, stability, translation, and other critical processes. Although the role of RNA methylation in the pathogenesis and progression of IBD and colorectal cancer has been reported, many aspects remain unresolved. In this comprehensive review, we present recent studies on RNA methylation in IBD and colorectal cancer, with a particular focus on m6A and its regulators. We highlight the pivotal role of m6A in the pathogenesis of IBD and colorectal cancer and explore the potential applications of m6A modifications in the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases.

Revealing neuropilin expression patterns in pancreatic cancer: From single‑cell to therapeutic opportunities (Review)

Pancreatic cancer, one of the most fatal types of human cancers, includes several non-epithelial and stromal components, such as activated fibroblasts, vascular cells, neural cells and immune cells, that are involved in different cancers. Vascular endothelial cell growth factor 165 receptors 1 [neuropilin-1 (NRP-1)] and 2 (NRP-2) play a role in the biological behaviors of pancreatic cancer and may appear as potential therapeutic targets. The NRP family of proteins serve as co-receptors for vascular endothelial growth factor, transforming growth factor β, hepatocyte growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, semaphorin 3, epidermal growth factor, insulin-like growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor. Investigations of mechanisms that involve the NRP family of proteins may help develop novel approaches for overcoming therapy resistance in pancreatic cancer. The present review aimed to provide an in-depth exploration of the multifaceted roles of the NRP family of proteins in pancreatic cancer, including recent findings from single-cell analysis conducted within the context of pancreatic adenocarcinoma, which revealed the intricate involvement of NRP proteins at the cellular level. Through these efforts, the present study endeavored to further reveal their relationships with different biological processes and their potential as therapeutic targets in various treatment modalities, offering novel perspectives and directions for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.

[Future Perspectives of Single-Cell RNA Sequencing in Cancer Research]

This review focuses on cancer, a serious health issue in modern society, and explores the advancements and applications of single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq)as an advanced technique for understanding its pathobiology. Cancer often arises due to genetic mutations or epigenetic changes, which manifest through fluctuations in gene expression. Therefore, transcriptome information(transcriptomics)plays an indispensable role in cancer research. In this field, there has been a shift from hybridization to next-generation sequencing, and the emergence of scRNA-seq technology enables the analysis of dynamic gene expression properties at the single-cell level. Consequently, significant advancements have been made in cancer research, including understanding complex intercellular variations and interactions, as well as revealing the roles of the tumor microenvironment and immune cells, and the contribution of non-coding RNAs. This review focuses on the progress and applications of scRNA-seq technology, providing an overview of new insights and prospects for cancer research and therapy.

Feasibility of Omitting Contralateral Neck Irradiation in Patients with Node-Negative Sinonasal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Crossing the Midline

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

This study aims to analyze the nodal target volume in patients with node-negative SNSCC crossing the midline.

MATERIALS/METHODS

One hundred and four patients with node-negative advanced sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma (SNSCC) crossing the midline were included. Survival rates were estimated and compared between treatment groups.

RESULTS

Sixty-four patients received contralateral ENI (contralateral ENI group), while forty patients did not (non-contralateral ENI group). The median follow-up time was 89.99 and 95.01 months in the contralateral and non-contralateral ENI groups, respectively. At 5 years, the regional relapse-free survival and contralateral regional relapse-free survival were 57.68% vs. 55.83% (p = 0.372), and 57.68% vs. 61.62% (p = 0.541), in contralateral ENI group vs. non-contralateral ENI group, respectively. Five-year overall survival, local relapse-free survival, and distant metastasis-free survival were similar in the two groups (all p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In patients with node-negative SNSCC crossing the midline, omission of contralateral ENI did not affect regional control and survival outcomes on the premise of receiving ipsilateral ENI covering at least levels Ib and II.

Multifaced roles of desmoplastic reaction and fibrosis in pancreatic cancer progression: Current understanding and future directions

Desmoplastic reaction is a fibrosis reaction that is characterized by a large amount of dense extracellular matrix (ECM) and dense fibrous stroma. Fibrotic stroma around the tumor has several different components, including myofibroblasts, collagen, and other ECM molecules. This stromal reaction is a natural response to the tissue injury process, and fibrosis formation is a key factor in pancreatic cancer development. The fibrotic stroma of pancreatic cancer is associated with tumor progression, metastasis, and poor prognosis. Reportedly, multiple processes are involved in fibrosis, which is largely associated with the upregulation of various cytokines, chemokines, matrix metalloproteinases, and other growth factors that promote tumor growth and metastasis. Fibrosis is also associated with immunosuppressive cell recruitment, such as regulatory T cells (Tregs) with suppressing function to antitumor immunity. Further, dense fibrosis restricts the flow of nutrients and oxygen to the tumor cells, which can contribute to drug resistance. Furthermore, the dense collagen matrix can act as a physical barrier to block the entry of drugs into the tumor, thereby further contributing to drug resistance. Thus, understanding the mechanism of desmoplastic reaction and fibrosis in pancreatic cancer will open an avenue to innovative medicine and improve the prognosis of patients suffering from this disease.

Drug Discovery and Development of miRNA-Based Nucleotide Drugs for Gastrointestinal Cancer

Short non-coding RNAs, miRNAs, play roles in the control of cell growth and differentiation in cancer. Reportedly, the introduction of miRNAs could reduce the biologically malignant behavior of cancer cells, suggesting a possible use as therapeutic reagents. Given that the forced expression of several miRNAs, including miR-302, results in the cellular reprograming of human and mouse cells, which is similar to the effects of the transcription factors Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc, this suggests that the selective introduction of several miRNAs will be able to achieve anti-cancer effects at the epigenetic and metabolic levels. In this review article, we bring together the recent advances made in studies of microRNA-based therapeutic approaches to therapy-resistant cancers, especially in gastrointestinal organs.

Role of RNA methylation in the regulation of pancreatic cancer stem cells (Review)

Pancreatic cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a key role in the initiation and progression of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC). CSCs are responsible for resistance to chemotherapy and radiation, and for cancer metastasis. Recent studies have indicated that RNA methylation, a type of RNA modification, predominantly occurring as m6A methylation, plays an important role in controlling the stemness of cancer cells, therapeutic resistance against chemotherapy and radiation therapy, and their overall relevance to a patient's prognosis. CSCs regulate various behaviors of cancer through cell-cell communication by secreting factors, through their receptors, and through signal transduction. Recent studies have shown that RNA methylation is involved in the biology of the heterogeneity of PDAC. The present review provides an update on the current understanding of RNA modification-based therapeutic targets against deleterious PDAC. Several key pathways and agents that can specifically target CSCs have been identified, thus providing novel insights into the early diagnosis and efficient treatment of PDAC.

[Principle and routine operation of laser assisted periodontal surgery]

Periodontitis is one of the most common infectious oral diseases, which can cause destruction of periodontal supporting tissues and even tooth mobility and loss. Controlling infection, eliminating inflammation, restoring the physiological shape of periodontal tissues, and meeting functional and aesthetic needs are the main goals of periodontal treatment. When periodontitis develops to a more severe stage, surgical treatment is necessary to handle soft and hard tissues for good treatment results. Since the development of the first Nd:YAG laser dedicated to dental medicine by Myers in 1990, over 30 years of clinical and basic research have shown that lasers have tremendous potential in assisting periodontal surgery. This article summarizes the principles and operational routines of laser-assisted periodontal surgery, aiming to provide clinical reference for diagnosis and treatment.

[Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography with intra-glandular contrast injection can improve the diagnostic accuracy of central compartment lymph node metastasis of thyroid cancer]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the value of lymphatic contrast-enhanced ultrasound (LCEUS) with intra-glandular injection of contrast agent for diagnosis of central compartment lymph node metastasis of thyroid cancer.

METHODS

From November, 2020 to May, 2022, the patients suspected of having thyroid cancer and scheduled for biopsy at our center received both conventional ultrasound and LCEUS examinations of the central compartment lymph nodes before surgery. All the patients underwent surgical dissection of the lymph nodes. The perfusion features in LCEUS were classified as homogeneous enhancement, heterogeneous enhancement, regular/irregular ring, and non-enhancement. With pathological results as the gold standard, we compared the diagnostic ability of conventional ultrasound and LCEUS for identifying metastasis in the central compartment lymph nodes.

RESULTS

Forty-nine patients with 60 lymph nodes were included in the final analysis. Pathological examination reported metastasis in 34 of the lymph nodes, and 26 were benign lymph nodes. With ultrasound findings of heterogeneous enhancement, irregular ring and non-enhancement as the criteria for malignant lesions, LCEUS had a diagnostic sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of 97.06%, 92.31% and 95% for diagnosing metastatic lymph nodes, respectively, demonstrating its better performance than conventional ultrasound (P < 0.001). Receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis showed that LCEUS had a significantly greater area under the curve than conventional ultrasound for diagnosing metastatic lymph nodes (94.7% [0.856-0.988] vs 78.2% [0.656-0.878], P=0.003).

CONCLUSION

LCEUS can enhance the display and improve the diagnostic accuracy of the central compartment lymph nodes to provide important clinical evidence for making clinical decisions on treatment of thyroid cancer.

Synthesis of Octacalcium Phosphate Containing Glutarate Ions with a High Incorporation Fraction

Octacalcium phosphate (OCP) has received considerable attention in the field of ceramic biomaterials as an advanced functional material. It exhibits a layered structure composed of apatitic and hydrated layers and can incorporate various dicarboxylate ions into the hydrated layer. Saturated dicarboxylic acids (HOOC(CH₂)_nCOOH) with an odd number of methylene groups (-CH₂-) exhibit lower incorporation fractions than those with an even number of methylene groups, possibly owing to a compositional dependence on the synthetic method. In this study, calcium carbonate, phosphoric acid, and various amounts of glutaric acid were used to produce glutarate-ion-incorporated OCP by a wet chemical method, which is different from the conventional synthetic strategy. While utilising 1-20 mmol of glutaric acid during synthesis did not produce the desired product, using 25 mmol of glutaric acid resulted in the formation of single-phase glutarate-ion-incorporated OCP with a Ca/P molar ratio of 1.57 and a 90% incorporation fraction of glutarate ions. This glutarate-ion-incorporation fraction is significantly higher than that reported in the previous studies (35%). Thus, the synthetic procedure proposed herein was able to produce single-phase OCP containing glutarate ions with a high incorporation fraction. Our findings can contribute to development of novel functional ceramic biomaterials in the future.

Ultrasound for the detection of the pyramidal lobe of the thyroid gland

PURPOSE

The pyramidal lobe (PL) is an ancillary lobe of the thyroid gland that can be affected by the same pathologies as the rest of the gland. We aimed to assess the diagnostic performance of high-resolution sonography in the detection of the PL with verification by dissection and histological examination.

METHODS

In a prospective, cross-sectional mono-center study, 50 fresh, non-embalmed cadavers were included. Blinded ultrasound examination was performed to detect the PL by two investigators of different experience levels. If the PL was detected with ultrasound, dissection was performed to expose the PL and obtain a tissue sample. When no PL was detected with ultrasound, a tissue block of the anterior cervical region was excised. An endocrine pathologist microscopically examined all tissue samples and tissue blocks for the presence of thyroid parenchyma.

RESULTS

The prevalence of the PL was 80% [40/50; 95% CI (68.9%; 91.1%)]. Diagnostic performance for both examiners was: sensitivity (85.0%; 42.5%), specificity (50.0%; 60.0%), positive predictive value (87.2%; 81.0%), negative predictive value (45.5%; 21.0%) and accuracy (78.0%; 46.0%). Regression analysis demonstrated that neither thyroid parenchyma echogenicity, thyroid gland volume, age nor body size proved to be covariates in the accurate detection of a PL (p > .05).

CONCLUSION

We report that high-resolution ultrasound is an adequate examination modality to detect the PL. Our findings indicate a higher prevalence than previously reported. Therefore, the PL may be regarded as a regular part of the thyroid gland. We also advocate a dedicated assessment of the PL in routine thyroid ultrasound.

The 2021 ultrafast spectroscopic probes of condensed matter roadmap

In the 60 years since the invention of the laser, the scientific community has developed numerous fields of research based on these bright, coherent light sources, including the areas of imaging, spectroscopy, materials processing and communications. Ultrafast spectroscopy and imaging techniques are at the forefront of research into the light-matter interaction at the shortest times accessible to experiments, ranging from a few attoseconds to nanoseconds. Light pulses provide a crucial probe of the dynamical motion of charges, spins, and atoms on picosecond, femtosecond, and down to attosecond timescales, none of which are accessible even with the fastest electronic devices. Furthermore, strong light pulses can drive materials into unusual phases, with exotic properties. In this roadmap we describe the current state-of-the-art in experimental and theoretical studies of condensed matter using ultrafast probes. In each contribution, the authors also use their extensive knowledge to highlight challenges and predict future trends.

Brain-specific monoallelic expression of bovine UBE3A is associated with genomic position

Genomic imprinting is a rare epigenetic process in mammalian cells that leads to monoallelic expression of a gene with a parent-specific pattern. The UBE3A (ubiquitin protein ligase E3A) gene is imprinted with maternal allelic expression in the brain but biallelically expressed in all other tissues in humans. The silencing of the paternal UBE3A allele is thought to be caused by the paternally expressed antisense RNA transcript of UBE3A-ATS. The aberrant imprinted expression of the UBE3A is associated with several neurodevelopmental syndromes and psychological disorders. Cattle are a valuable model species in determining the genetic etiology of sporadic human disorder, and maternal expression of UEB3A has been revealed by next-generation sequencing study in the bovine conceptus. In this study, we investigated the allelic expression of UBE3A and UBE3A-ATS in adult bovine somatic tissues. To confirm the splicing pattern of bovine UBE3A, five 5' alternative transcripts (MT210534-MT210538) were first obtained from bovine brain tissue by RT-PCR. Based on 10 SNP genotypes, we found that the brain-specific monoallelic expression of bovine UBE3A did not occur along the entire locus, and there was a shift from biallelic expression to monoallelic expression in exon 14 of the UBE3A gene. However, the brain-specific monoallelic expression of bovine UBE3A-ATS occurred in the entire gene. These observations demonstrated that the monoallelic expression did not occur along the bovine UBE3A entire locus and was associated with the genomic position.

Laser picoscopy of valence electrons in solids

Valence electrons contribute a small fraction of the total electron density of materials, but they determine their essential chemical, electronic and optical properties. Strong laser fields can probe electrons in valence orbitals^1-3 and their dynamics^4-6 in the gas phase. Previous laser studies of solids have associated high-harmonic emission^7-12 with the spatial arrangement of atoms in the crystal lattice^13,14 and have used terahertz fields to probe interatomic potential forces¹⁵. Yet the direct, picometre-scale imaging of valence electrons in solids has remained challenging. Here we show that intense optical fields interacting with crystalline solids could enable the imaging of valence electrons at the picometre scale. An intense laser field with a strength that is comparable to the fields keeping the valence electrons bound in crystals can induce quasi-free electron motion. The harmonics of the laser field emerging from the nonlinear scattering of the valence electrons by the crystal potential contain the critical information that enables picometre-scale, real-space mapping of the valence electron structure. We used high harmonics to reconstruct images of the valence potential and electron density in crystalline magnesium fluoride and calcium fluoride with a spatial resolution of about 26 picometres. Picometre-scale imaging of valence electrons could enable direct probing of the chemical, electronic, optical and topological properties of materials.

[Differential diagnosis of gallbladder abnormalities : Ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging]

CLINICAL ISSUE

Due to the high prevalence of clinically suspected cholecystitis or cholecystolithiasis the gallbladder is one of the organs examined the most by imaging.

STANDARD RADIOLOGICAL METHODS

In most clinical settings ultrasound is the primary imaging method because of its wide availability, speed and superior spatial resolution. In cases of ambiguous findings or potential complications computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used.

METHODICAL INNOVATIONS

When specific problems arise these imaging modalities may be enhanced by special techniques, e. g. contrast-enhanced ultrasound or dual-energy CT, and specific MRI sequences.

PERFORMANCE

Special variants of cholecystitis, such as xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis and adenomyomatosis, may pose a particularly difficult diagnostic problem as they may resemble other diseases. Sequelae of cholecystolithiasis, such as the Mirizzi syndrome and acute bowel obstruction, may complicate the imaging algorithm as the location and the symptoms shift. Cases of neoplastic diseases of gallbladder cancer and other malignancies require a broad spectrum of imaging modalities.

ACHIEVEMENTS

Although the gallbladder can easily be examined with ultrasound, some cases require a more thorough ultrasound examination. In some cases only a combination of multiple imaging modalities yield the diagnosis. Further developments regarding technical issues and the diagnostic algorithm can be expected.

PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS

Ultrasound is the best first imaging modality. In cases of ambiguous findings or clinical complications CT or MRI are recommended.

[A study on the association between the infant anemia and the utilization of maternal and child health services in ethnic minorities gathering in poverty-stricken rural areas of two provinces in Western China]

In this study, 1 065 infants and young children aged 24 months below in ethnic minorities gathering in poor rural areas in poor rural areas of Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan Province and Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Gansu Province were investigated for their anemia status from October to November 2014, and the association between anemia and the utilization of maternal and child health services was analyzed. The prevalence of anemia in this area was 52.68%(561/1 065). After the adjustment of socio-demographic characteristics of mothers and infants, compared with infants aged 2-5 months, Han ethnic group, and infants whose mother was not anemic, the OR(95%CI) values of infant anemia for infants aged 6-12 months, 13-8 months, 19-24 months, ethnic minorities group, and infants whose mother was anemic were 11.65 (7.09-19.14), 9.91 (5.99-16.38), 5.87 (3.39-10.16), 1.55 (1.10-2.18) and 1.52 (1.14-2.04), respectively; Compared with infants whose child examination times not up to standard, and who were not only non-hospital delivered but also received inadequate number of inoculation, the OR (95%CI) values of infant anemia for infants whose child examination times up to standard, and who were not only hospital delivered but also received adequate number of inoculation were 0.60 (0.38-0.94) and 0.71 (0.52-0.98), respectively. The infants anemia is associated with the utilization of maternal and child health services.

[Clinical study of different adsorbents with dual plasma molecular adsorption system in the treatment of hepatic failure]

Objective: To investigate the effects of two different sorbents(Carbon perfusion apparatus and Resin perfusion apparatus)in Double plasma molecular absorb syetem for liver failure treatment. Methods: A total of 152 cases with liver failure who were admitted to The Sixth People's Hospital of Zhengzhou, from June 2016 to May 2018 were selected and divided into DPMARS Carbon group (77 cases) and Resin group (75 cases). The two groups were observed in terms of liver function, prothrombin activity(PTA),Plasma albumin ,tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-6 were detected and compared between the two groups before and after treatment. Results: ①The clinical symptoms improved in different degree in two groups, the recovery rate of Carbon cans Carbon perfusion apparatus group and Resin group separately were89.6% (69/77)、90.7% (68/75)(χ(2) = 0.048, P = 0.975), there were no statistical differences. There were no statistical differences between the two groups in untoward reactions(χ(2) = 0.235, P = 0.995), ②Compared with before treatment, TBil(t = 3.735, 3.728; P = 0.000, 0.000)、ALT(t = 5.117, 5.203; P = 0.000, 0.000)、TNF-α (t = 3.158, 3.094; P = 0.000, 0.002)、IL-6(t = 3.647, 3.559; P = 0.002, 0.003)decreased and ALB (t = 2.300, 3.065; P = 0.024, 0.003) increased significantly after treatment in both groups, and there were statistical differences. There were no signifiant differences in the changes in ALB(t = 0.316, 0.209; P = 0.657, 0.720) and PTA(t = 0.810, 0.843; P = 0.429, 0.516). ③After treatment, there were no signifiant differences in the changes in TBil、ALT、ALB、PTA、TNF-α、IL-6(t = 0.377、0.904、-1.133、-1.552、0.841、0.401; P = 0.952、0.283、0.826、0.094、0.154、0.457). Conclusion: Double plasma molecular absorb syetem is effective in treating liver failure. Carbon perfusion apparatus or Resin perfusion apparatus can be combined with Specific bilirubin adsorption column for DPMARS in clinical treatment,and their effects are similar.

The Red Kangaroo pericardium as a material source for the manufacture of percutaneous heart valves

BACKGROUND

The kangaroo pericardium might be considered to be a good candidate material for use in the manufacture of the leaflets of percutaneous heart valves based upon the unique lifestyle. The diet consists of herbs, forbs and strubs. The kangaroo pericardium holds an undulated structure of collagen.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A Red Kangaroo was obtained after a traffic fatality and the pericardium was dissected. Four compasses were cut from four different sites: auricular (AUR), atrial (ATR), sternoperitoneal (SPL) and phrenopericardial (PPL). They were investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy, light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy.

RESULTS

All the samples showed dense and wavy collagen bundles without vascularisation from both the epicardium and the parietal pericardium. The AUR and the ATR were 150±25μm thick whereas the SPL and the PPL were thinner at 120±20μm. The surface of the epicardium was smooth and glistening. The filaments of collagen were well individualized without any aggregation, but the banding was poorly defined and somewhat blurry.

CONCLUSION

This detailed morphological analysis of the kangaroo pericardium illustrated a surface resistant to thrombosis and physical characteristics resistant to fatigue. The morphological characteristics of the kangaroo pericardium indicate that it represents an outstanding alternative to the current sources e.g., bovine and porcine. However, procurement of tissues from the wild raises supply and sanitary issues. Health concerns based upon sanitary uncertainty and reliability of supply of wild animals remain real problems.

Effects of Talaromyces marneffei infection on mortality of HIV/AIDS patients in southern China: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Talaromyces marneffei is an opportunistic infection with high morbidity among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/AIDS patients in Southeast Asia and southern China. Its effects on mortality in HIV/AIDS patients has not been clearly elucidated.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of hospitalized HIV-infected individuals at the Fourth People's Hospital of Nanning, Guangxi, China during 2012-2015. Kaplan-Meier analyses were used to calculate the cumulative mortality. Cox proportional hazard models and 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) were used to evaluate the effects of T. marneffei infection on mortality of HIV/AIDS patients.

RESULTS

In total, 6791 HIV/AIDS patients were included, 1093 of them (16.1%) with documented T. marneffei co-infection. The mortality of T. marneffei-infected patients (25.0 per 100 person-months, 95% CI 21.5-26.7) was the highest among all AIDS-associated complications and was significantly higher than that of T. marneffei-uninfected HIV/AIDS patients (13.8 per 100 person-months, 95% CI 12.5-15.1; adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) 1.80, 95% CI 1.48-2.16). The results using PSM were similar (AHR 4.52 95% CI 2.43-8.42). The mortality of T. marneffei-infected patients was also significantly higher than that of patients without any complications. When stratified by demographic characteristics, T. marneffei infection has higher mortality risk in all stratifications. Co-infection with T. marneffei carries a higher mortality risk in patients at any CD4⁺ T-cell count.

CONCLUSIONS

Talaromyces marneffei infection is commonly found in hospitalized HIV/AIDS patients in southern China and was associated with a higher mortality rate than most HIV-associated complications. These results highlight the need for improved diagnosis, treatment and prevention of infection by this neglected fungal pathogen in southern China.

Bone mass loss is associated with systolic blood pressure in postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes in Tibet: a retrospective cross-sectional study

We conducted an observational cross-section study to investigate the status of bone mineral mass of Tibetan postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes and the possible predictors for osteoporosis. We found that prevalence of osteoporosis was 27.0% and blood pressure was an independent risk factor for bone mass loss.

INTRODUCTION

The aims of this study is to investigate the prevalence of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes dwelling in Tibet and the possible risk factors for bone mass loss.

METHODS

We recruited 99 Chinese Tibetan postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes from the department of endocrinology of People's Hospital Tibet Autonomous Region. Multiple sites of bone mineral density (BMD) were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The subjects were divided into three groups based on BMD T-score: osteoporosis, osteopenia, and normal. The clinical characteristics were compared between groups. The risk factors for bone mass loss were assessed by multiple linear regression analysis.

RESULTS

Among diabetic postmenopausal women dwelling in high altitude, mean age was 62 ± 8 years, the median postmenopausal period was 12 years (5, 20), the median duration of diabetes mellitus was 3 years (1, 8), and mean BMI was 27.6 ± 4.2 kg/m². Patients (52.5%) had hypertension. The percentages of patients with osteoporosis, osteopenia and normal BMD were 27.3, 42.4, and 30.3%, respectively. HbA1c and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were independently associated with T-scores of spine; ages and SBP were independently associated with T-scores of femoral neck or hip.

CONCLUSIONS

Among diabetic postmenopausal women dwelling in high altitude, 27.3% patients have osteoporosis, 42.4% patients have osteopenia, and 30.3% are normal. The BMD T-score of spine was inversely associated with SBP and positively associated with HbA1c, while the BMD T-score of femoral neck or hip was inversely associated with ages and SBP.

Sofosbuvir Monotherapy for Asymptomatic and Noncirrhotic Hepatitis C Infection in a Renal Retransplantation Recipient: A Case Report

Renal transplant recipients infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) have a high risk of progressing to cirrhosis, end-stage liver diseases, and hepatocellular carcinoma. It is also considered as an independent risk for graft loss and is correlated with proteinuria, transplant glomerulopathy, HCV-associated glomerulonephritis, and chronic rejection. Previous therapy involving interferon alfa and ribavirin led to treatment complications, including toxicity, anemia, sepsis, and drug-drug interactions with calcineurin inhibitors, as well as reduced tolerability and efficacy. New direct-acting antiviral drugs simplify and shorten the treatment along with increasing tolerability and efficacy. Nevertheless, limited data and no specific regimen with direct-acting antiviral drugs have been described in the literature for renal transplant recipients with chronic HCV. We describe here the case of a 52-year-old Chinese man who diagnosed with chronic renal failure in 1997 and underwent renal transplantation the same year. In 2012, he was diagnosed with renal graft failure and again underwent hemodialysis. The patient then underwent his second renal transplantation and was administered an immunosuppressive cyclosporine-based regimen in 2015. During hemodialysis, he acquired asymptomatic genotype 1b HCV infection. Serologic test results reflecting liver cirrhosis were all negative, and ultrasound showed no abnormalities in the liver. The patient later required oral sofosbuvir monotherapy for 12 weeks after the second kidney transplantation. Curing HCV in renal transplant recipients is necessary. Although our treatment did not successfully result in a sustained virologic response, it suggests that genotype 1b HCV may have a poor response to a sofosbuvir monotherapy regimen. Specific and effective regimens for renal transplant recipients with HCV infection need to be confirmed in the future.

Heat-Shock Protein gp96 Enhances T Cell Responses and Protective Potential to Bacillus Calmette-Guérin Vaccine

The commonly used Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine only induces moderate T cell responses and is less effective in protecting against pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) in adults and ageing populations. Thus, developing new TB vaccine candidates is an important strategy against the spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Here, we demonstrated that immunization with heat-shock protein gp96 as an adjuvant led to a significantly increased CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cell response to a BCG vaccine. Secretion of the Th1-type cytokines was increased by splenocytes from gp96-immunized mice. In addition, adding gp96 as an adjuvant effectively improved the protection against intravenous challenge with Mycobacterium bovis BCG in mice. Our study reveals the novel property of gp96 in boosting the vaccine-specific T cell response and its potential use as an adjuvant for BCG vaccines against mycobacterial infection.

A placebo-controlled trial of a proprietary lipid-lowering nutraceutical supplement in the management of dyslipidemia

There is an ever growing emergence in the popularity of patient-driven care. As this health and wellness model grows, inquiries into diet, lifestyle, and supplemental approaches will continue to become a focal point for the healthcare consumer. Because of this, the aim of this study is to determine the tolerability, and overall effectiveness of a proprietary multi-ingredient lipid-lowering supplement in subjects with dyslipidemia. Forty participants were recruited for a single-center, double-blind randomized, placebocontrolled trial. Study participants were recruited between December 2014 and March 2015. Initial screening included a physical examination, renal and hepatic function, serum lipid, serum electrolytes, complete blood counts, and urine analysis. The 40 participants were randomly assigned to receive either the proprietary multi-ingredient lipid-lowering supplement (PMILLS) n= 20 or placebo n= 20. The trial consisted of a screening visit, a two-week run-in, and a four-month treatment period. Samples were taken at baseline, one month and four months of treatment. Results from the trial showed that the PMILLS significantly reduced total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein (LDL-C), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL-C), oxidized LDL (oxLDL), Apo-lipoprotein B, triglycerides (TG), LDL particle number (LDL-P), heart rate, and diastolic blood pressure compared to placebo at one month and four months. The PMILLS significantly increased high density lipoprotein (HDL) particle number (HDL-P), and low density lipoprotein (LDL) particle size from dense type III and IV to larger type I and II LDL particle, compared to placebo at one month and four months. In addition, the PMILLS significantly reduced high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), tumor necrosis alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) within the treatment group from baseline. There were no adverse effects noted in the treatment group after four months of supplementation. The present study demonstrates this PMILLS improves all relevant lipid parameters, such as particle numbers and particles sizes, as well as showing a significant reduction in inflammatory markers linked to cardiovascular health. With such combined changes in lipids, lipid sub-fractions, and inflammation, which are considered among the most effective means of reducing coronary heart disease (CHD), this PMILLS represents a new addition to safe and effective lipid-modifying strategies.

Effect of polychlorinated biphenyls on osmoregulatory response and apoptosis in GIFT tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus

In the present study, GIFT tilapia Oreochromis niloticus were exposed to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) for 7, 14, and 21 days. Over the duration of the exposure, genotoxicity and the activity of Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase (NKA) and Ca⁺/Mg⁺-ATPase (CMA) were measured in the gill, kidney, and intestine, to evaluate changes in osmoregulatory response in O. niloticus. Our results showed significant decreases in organic NKA (except in gill tissues after 0.5 mg/L PCB-exposure) and CMA activity. The results of the genotoxicity assay showed significant increases in atp1a1a, nkcc2 (only in gill tissue), and fxyd7 (except after 21 days of 5 mg/L PCB exposure). We found significant increases in caspase proteins in the liver in the 5-mg/L PCB exposure group, and the transcripts showed dose-dependent increases between treatment groups over the exposure duration. This study presents evidence that chronic exposure to PCB could result in organic osmoregulatory response and hepatic apoptosis in GIFT tilapia.

Evaluation of insertion-deletion markers suitable for genetic diversity studies and marker-trait correlation analyses in cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

Peanut is one of the most important oil crops worldwide. We used insertion-deletion (InDel) markers to assess the genetic diversity and population structure in cultivated peanut. Fifty-four accessions from North China were genotyped using 48 InDel markers. The markers amplified 61 polymorphic loci with 1 to 8 alleles and an average of 2.6 alleles per marker. The polymorphism information content values ranged from 0.0364 to 0.9030, with an average of 0.5038. Population structure and neighbor-joining (NJ) tree analyses suggested that all accessions could be divided into four clusters (A1-A4), using the NJ method. Likewise, four subpopulations (G1-G4) were identified using STRUCTURE analysis. A principal component analysis was also used and results concordant with the other analysis methods were found. A multi-linear stepwise regression analysis revealed that 13 InDel markers correlated with five measured agronomical traits. Our results will provide important information for future peanut molecular breeding and genetic research.

Structure-based model profiles affinity constant of drugs with hPEPT1 for rapid virtual screening of hPEPT1's substrate

The human proton-coupled peptide transporter (hPEPT1) with broad substrates is an important route for improving the pharmacokinetic performance of drugs. Thus, it is essential to predict the affinity constant between drug molecule and hPEPT1 for rapid virtual screening of hPEPT1's substrate during lead optimization, candidate selection and hPEPT1 prodrug design. Here, a structure-based in silico model for 114 compounds was constructed based on eight structural parameters. This model was built by the multiple linear regression method and satisfied all the prerequisites of the regression models. For the entire data set, the r(2) and adjusted r(2) values were 0.74 and 0.72, respectively. Then, this model was used to perform substrate/non-substrate classification. For 29 drugs from DrugBank database, all were correctly classified as substrates of hPEPT1. This model was also used to perform substrate/non-substrate classification for 18 drugs and their prodrugs; this QSAR model also can distinguish between the substrate and non-substrate. In conclusion, the QSAR model in this paper was validated by a large external data set, and all results indicated that the developed model was robust, stable, and can be used for rapid virtual screening of hPEPT1's substrate in the early stage of drug discovery.

Metabonomic profiles reveal dose-dependent effects of Bu-Shen-Gu-Chi-Wan on the serum in experimental periodontitis of rat model

ETHNO-PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Bu-Shen-Gu-Chi-Wan is a Chinese patent medicine for the treatment of chronic periodontitis. It has an anti-inflammatory function in experimental periodontitis and can improve alveolar bone remodeling.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aims to explore the effects of Bu-Shen-Gu-Chi-Wan on serum metabolism in a rat model of periodontitis using ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR) based metabonomics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The model of experimental periodontitis in a rat was established by steel wire ligation, plus a high glucose diet and Porphyromonas gingivalis inoculation. When the models had been established, 6-week-old Sprague-Dawley female rats (n=31) were divided into 5 groups: high dose group (Group H), medium dose group (Group M), low dose group (Group L), periodontitis group (Group P) and healthy control group (Group N). Rats in Group H, M and L were given the Bu-Shen-Gu-Chi-Wan solution (0.8, 2 and 4g/kg of body weight) daily for 60 days. Rats in Group P and N were administered normal saline (10ml/kg of body weight) in the same period. All rats were sacrificed at the end of the study and serum samples were collected. The metabolites in the serum were analyzed using ¹H NMR in conjunction with principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA).

RESULTS

The metabonomic profiles of five groups showed the clustering of individual dataset in every group, and the 1st principal component and the 2nd principal component could significantly differentiate the datasets of medium dose or high dose group from other groups. The chemical shift regions at δ 1.22ppm, 1.86ppm, 2.26ppm, 2.34ppm and 2.42ppm showed the most obvious differences among the five groups. The correspondent metabolites were high density lipoprotein, pyruvate/oxaloacetate, arginine and glutamine.

CONCLUSION

The effects of Bu-Shen-Gu-Chi-Wan on the rat serum metabolites were dose dependent. High density lipoprotein, pyruvate/oxaloacetate, arginine and glutamine may be the serum biomarkers of Bu-Shen-Gu-Chi-Wan.

[A comparison of the outcome of therapy between fractional flow reserve guided- versus coronary angiography guided-strategy in acute coronary syndrome patients with moderate coronary lesions]

OBJECTIVE

To compare the outcomes between coronary angiography (CAG ) guided- and fractional flow reserve (FFR) guided-strategy in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients with moderate lesions.

METHODS

Totally, 249 ACS subjects with moderate lesions examined by CAG in Beijing Anzhen Hospital from July 1, 2014 to July 30, 2015 were included in the present analysis. Among them, 98 patients were further examined by FFR and 151 were not. All the patients were treated with medication either guided by CAG or by FFR. Subjects were followed up for an average of 10 months. The end points included death, nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI), target vessel revascularization (TVR), and hospitalization costs. Major adverse cardiac events (MACE) were defined as death, nonfatal MI, and TVR.

RESULTS

At the end of follow-up, 29 patients had MACE with 6 cases (6.5%) in the FFR-guided group, and 23 cases (16.2%) in the CAG-guided group (P=0.036). Patients treated with FFR-guided strategy had significantly lower rate of TVR than those treated with CAG-guided strategy (5.4% vs 14.8%, P=0.045). No statistical difference was observed in nonfatal MI (2.2% vs 3.5%, P=0.242) between the two groups, and no cardiac death occurred in the two groups. However, the rate of patients treated with stains (P=0.033) and the hospitalization costs (P=0.001) were significantly increased in the FFR-guided group.

CONCLUSIONS

FFR-guided strategy for patients with ACS results in lower TVR and MACE, but higher cost when compared with CAG-guided strategy.

Fracture risk and bone mineral density levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Previous studies suggested possible bone loss and fracture risk in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the strength of the relationship of SLE with fracture risk and the mean difference of bone mineral density (BMD) levels between SLE patients and controls. Literature search was undertaken in multiple indexing databases on September 26, 2015. Studies on the relationship of SLE with fracture risk and the mean difference of BMD levels between SLE patients and controls were included. Data were combined using standard methods of meta-analysis. Twenty-one studies were finally included into the meta-analysis, including 15 studies on the mean difference of BMD levels between SLE patients and controls, and 6 studies were on fracture risk associated with SLE. The meta-analysis showed that SLE patients had significantly lower BMD levels than controls in the whole body (weighted mean difference [WMD] = -0.04; 95 % CI -0.06 to -0.02; P < 0.001), femoral neck (WMD = -0.06; 95 % CI -0.07 to -0.04; P < 0.001), lumbar spine (WMD = -0.06; 95 % CI -0.09 to -0.03; P < 0.001), and total hip (WMD = -0.05; 95 % CI -0.06 to -0.03; P < 0.001). In addition, the meta-analysis also showed that SLE was significantly associated with increased fracture risk of all sites (relative risk [RR] = 1.97, 95 % CI 1.20-3.25; P = 0.008). Subgroup analysis by adjustment showed that SLE was significantly associated with increased fracture risk of all sites before and after adjusting for confounding factors (unadjusted RR = 2.07, 95 % CI 1.46-2.94, P < 0.001; adjusted RR = 1.22, 95 % CI 1.05-1.42, P = 0.01). Subgroup analysis by types of fracture showed that SLE was significantly associated with increased risks of hip fracture (RR = 1.99, 95 % CI 1.55-2.57; P < 0.001), osteoporotic fracture (RR = 1.36, 95 % CI 1.21-1.53; P < 0.001), and vertebral fracture (RR = 2.97, 95 % CI 1.71-5.16; P < 0.001). This systematic review and meta-analysis provides strong evidence for the relationship of SLE with bone loss and fracture risk.

c-Met and CREB1 are involved in miR-433-mediated inhibition of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in bladder cancer by regulating Akt/GSK-3β/Snail signaling

Emerging evidence has suggested that microRNAs (miRNAs) have an important role in tumor development and progression by regulating diverse cellular pathways. Here we describe the function and regulation network of miR-433 in bladder cancer (BCa). miR-433 is frequently downregulated in BCa tissues compared with adjacent non-cancerous tissues. Epigenetic mechanisms may be involved in the regulation of miR-433 expression. Enforced expression of miR-433 significantly inhibits proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion in BCa cells. In addition, miR-433 inhibits the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in BCa cells by regulating c-Met/Akt/GSK-3β/Snail signaling pathway. Both c-Met and CREB1 are downstream target genes of miR-433. CREB1 can also indirectly regulate c-Met/Akt/GSK-3β/Snail signaling via MITF. Furthermore, CREB1 expression is an independent prognostic factor for overall survival in patients with BCa. Finally, there appears to exist a reciprocal regulation between c-Met and miR-433/miR-409-3p. Taken together, this study reveals that miR-433-c-MET/CREB1-Akt/GSK-3β/Snail signaling is critical to EMT in BCa. Targeting the pathway described here may open up new prospects to restrict metastatic progression of BCa.

Ultrasound of the Hypoglossal Nerve in the Neck: Visualization and Initial Clinical Experience with Patients

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The hypoglossal nerve, providing motor innervation for the tongue, can be affected in many diseases of the neck and skull base, leading to dysarthria, dysphagia, and ultimately atrophy of the tongue. We determined the feasibility of direct visualization of the hypoglossal nerve in the neck with ultrasound, testing this technique on healthy volunteers and evaluating it in clinical practice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study consisted of 4 parts: first, ultrasound-guided perineural ink injections along the course of the hypoglossal nerve at 24 sides of 12 fresh, nonembalmed cadaver necks. Subsequently, the specimens were dissected to confirm the correct identification of the nerve. The second part was examination of healthy volunteers with ultrasound and measurement of cross-sectional areas for generating reference data. The third part was scanning of healthy volunteers by 2 resident physicians with little and intermediate experience in ultrasound. Fourth was examination with ultrasound of patients with motor symptoms of the tongue.

RESULTS

The hypoglossal nerve was correctly identified bilaterally in all cadaveric specimens (24/24) and all volunteers (33/33). The cross-sectional area ranged from 1.9 to 2.1 mm(2). The resident physicians were able to locate the nerve in 19 of 22 cases, demonstrating that locating the nerve is reproducible and feasible even with intermediate experience in ultrasound. Finally, alterations of the hypoglossal nerve in disease states could be depicted.

CONCLUSIONS

Direct, reliable, and reproducible visualization of the extracranial hypoglossal nerve with ultrasound is feasible.

Wetting behavior of water on silicon carbide polar surfaces

Technically important wide band-gap semiconductors such as GaN, AlN, ZnO and SiC are crystallized in polar structures.

Development of cross-priming amplification assays for rapid and sensitive detection of Aeromonas hydrophila

Aeromonas hydrophila has been increasingly implicated as the aetiologic agent of various human diseases. Therefore, reliable laboratory detection and identification of this bacterium has become clinically and epidemiologically desirable. We developed a nearly instrument-free, simple molecular method for rapid detection of Aer. hydrophila using a cross-priming amplification (CPA) assay with the desA gene as the target. The desA gene is crucial for the survival and growth of Aer. hydrophila under iron starvation. The results can be visualized as colour changes without opening the reaction tubes. No false-positive results were observed for the 33 non-Aer. hydrophila strains tested to evaluate assay specificity. The limit of detection for Aer. hydrophila was approximately 200 copies of desA per reaction (on reference plasmids) and 5 × 10(3)  CFU g(-1) Aer. hydrophila in simulated human stool, which is the same sensitivity as a qPCR assay. The performance of the CPA assay was also evaluated with 100 stool specimens from diarrhoea patients and 40 environmental water samples. In conclusion, the simplicity, cost-effectiveness and nearly instrument-free platform of the CPA assay make it practical for use in primary care facilities and smaller clinical laboratories.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Aeromonas hydrophila is a human pathogen that infects via exposed wounds or ingestion of contaminated water and food. In this study, a CPA-based PCR method was developed for specific, rapid, cost-effective detection of Aer. hydrophila, and the test results could be visualized without opening the reaction tubes. This is the first report on the application of the CPA method for the detection of Aer. hydrophila. This novel method could be practical for use in primary care facilities and smaller clinical laboratories.