[Two cases of acute methyl acetate poisoning]

This article analyzed the clinical data and on-site occupational health survey results of a patient with occupational acute methyl acetate poisoning in Zhejiang. Based on the pathways of methyl acetate poisoning and the characteristics of target organ damage, diagnosis and treatment experience were summarized, providing reference for the diagnosis and treatment of occupational acute methyl acetate poisoning and occupational health monitoring of methyl acetate.

CT Findings of Stage IA Ovarian Cancer: Comparison between Borderline Tumor and Stage IC Ovarian Cancer

BACKGROUND

Ovarian cancer is a common gynecological malignant tumor in women. Most patients have reached the advanced stage when they visit the hospital. In order to diagnose ovarian cancer at an early stage, treat it at an early stage, and improve the survival rate of patients, this study has used the imaging computed tomography (CT) method to diagnose stage IA ovarian cancer.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this work was to study CT features of stage IA ovarian cancer, and compare the borderline tumor and stage IC ovarian cancer at the same time so as to improve the CT diagnosis of early ovarian cancer.

METHODS

We retrospectively collected clinical and CT data of patients with stage I ovarian cancer and borderline ovarian tumor admitted to Nantong Tumor Hospital from 2013 to 2021. Altogether, 23 cases of patients (borderline ovarian tumor, 9 cases; stage IA ovarian cancer, 5 cases; stage IC ovarian cancer, 9 cases) were involved. CT characteristics of these patients were analyzed in terms of the tumor diameter, cystic solid structure, solid component, septation, enhancement, peritoneal thickening, ascites, and abdominal lymph nodes.

RESULTS

CT features of stage IA ovarian cancer included large tumor size (average diameter: 15 cm), cystic solid structure (4/5; 80%), septation (4/5; 80%), and enhanced cystic wall, septum, or solid components of the tumor on contrast-enhanced CT (5/5; 100%) no peritoneal thickening (0/5; 0%), no ascites (0/5; 0%), and no abdominal lymph node enlargement (0/5; 0%). The tumor structure did not differ significantly between stage IA and IC ovarian cancers (p > 0.05), while intraperitoneal ascites did (χ2 = 0.031; p < 0.05). Stage IA and borderline ovarian tumors did not differ significantly in ovarian tumor structure (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

CT features of stage IA ovarian cancer included large tumor size, cystic solid structure, septation, and enhanced cystic wall and solid parts in the tumors. No pelvic or abdominal metastasis was observed.

[Long-term evaluation and physical and mental effects of residual tinnitus following treatment of sudden hearing loss]

Objective: To clarify the long-term characteristics of tinnitus following treatment of sudden deafness and its long-term physical and mental effects on patients. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on 88 patients (46 males and 42 females; Age from 11 to 89 years) with sudden deafness treated in Department of Otoscope Surgery of Peoples's Libration Army General Hospital in Beijing from April 2020 to January 2021, and the occurrence of tinnitus and treatment effect of all patients were analyzed. Follow-up was conducted for patients with residual tinnitus after treatment for more than 1 year by the investigation and filling in the survey information collection form, Tinnitus Evaluation Questionnaire (TEQ) and Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI). Descriptive statistics and SPSS 22.0 software were used for statistical data analysis. Results: In this study, 93.2% (82/88) of patients with sudden deafness were accompanied by tinnitus at the onset, and the proportion of long-term tinnitus after treatment was 90.2% (74/82). After 1 year of treatment for sudden deafness, the improvement of tinnitus was significant in low-frequency sudden deafness compared with those of high-frequency, flat and total deafness sudden deafness (χ2 value was 6.801, 4.568 and 4.038, all P<0.05). In patients with residual tinnitus, 9 (12.2%) patients felt minimal loudness or even no loudness, 34 (46.0%) patients felt slight loudness, 28 (37.8%) patients felt tinnitus was relatively loud, and 3 (4.1%) patients felt tinnitus was loud or noisy. Nine (12.2%) patients's sleep was often affected, 41 (55.4%) patients's sleep was sometimes affected, 9 (12.2%) patients's sleep was rarely affected, 15 (20.3%) patients's sleep was almost not affected. Twenty-eight (37.8%) patients basically completely adapted to tinnitus and 46 (62.2%) patients did not completely adapted to residual tinnitus. Eight (10.8%) patients had no impact on life, 39 (52.7%) patients had slight impact, 22 (29.7%) patients had moderate impact, and the other 5 (6.8%) patients had greater impact. According to tinnitus evaluation questionnaire(TEQ), there were 12 cases (16.2%) of grade Ⅰ, 26 cases (35.1%) of grade Ⅱ, 28 cases (37.8%) of grade Ⅲ, 7 cases (9.5%) of grade Ⅳ and 1 case (1.4%) of grade Ⅴ. According to tinnitus handicap inventory(THI), tinnitus disability was classified into grade Ⅰ, 22 cases (29.7%), grade Ⅱ, 14 cases (18.9%), Grade Ⅲ, 27 cases (36.5%) and grade Ⅳ, 11 cases (14.9%). Conclusion: The rate of residual tinnitus following treatment of sudden deafness is high. Some of the patients can completely adapt residual tinnitus after one year, but some of them will be affected when sleep, work and study. Residual tinnitus can lead to tinnitus disability in different degrees.

[Clinical study of heparin anticoagulation scheme during plasma adsorption therapy for liver failure]

Objective: To investigate the reasonable dosage of heparin anticoagulation scheme during plasma adsorption (PA) therapy for liver failure. Methods: Patients with liver failure treated with PA therapy were retrospectively collected and divided according to the anticoagulation scheme into the first-dose heparin anticoagulation group and the first-dose plus maintenance heparin anticoagulation group. Clinical data and laboratory test results were compared before and after treatment between the two groups. Paired t-tests were used for comparison within the normally distributed groups. An independent two-sample t-test was used for inter group comparison. Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used for measurement data that did not conform to a normal distribution. Fisher's exact test was used to compare the count data between groups. Results: There were 138 cases with liver failure treated with PA therapy from October 2017 to September 2020. Among them, 83 and 55 cases were in the first-dose heparin anticoagulation and first-dose plus maintenance heparin anticoagulation group, respectively. Age, gender, and laboratory data before treatment were comparable between the two groups. PA treatment was successfully completed in both groups of patient, and there was no statistically significant difference in the determination of coagulation level with plasma separators (Z=-0.15, P=0.216). There were different degrees of bleeding complications in both groups. In the first-dose heparin anticoagulation group, there were two cases (2.4%) of central venous catheter bleeding and one case (1.2%) of epistaxis. In the first-dose plus maintenance heparin anticoagulation group, there were five cases (9.1%) of central venous catheter bleeding, two cases (3.6%) of skin bleeding, one case (1.8%) of epistaxis, and one case (1.8%) of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. The incidence of bleeding complications was lower in the first-dose of heparin anticoagulation than first-dose plus maintenance heparin anticoagulation group, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.001). The activated partial thromboplastin time of the two groups was prolonged after therapy withdrawal than with therapy, and the difference was statistically significant (first-dose heparin anticoagulation group: t=3.850, P=0.022; first-dose plus maintenance heparin anticoagulation group: t=6.733, P=0.007). The activated partial thromboplastin time was prolonged in patients with first-dose plus maintenance heparin anticoagulation than first-dose heparin anticoagulation group, and the difference was statistically significant (P=0.025). The total bilirubin of the two groups before and after PA was significantly changed (the first-dose heparin anticoagulation group: Z=-2.455, P=0.017; the first-dose plus maintenance heparin anticoagulation group: Z=-2.307, P=0.024), and there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (P=0.412). There was no statistically significant difference in platelet changes before and after PA therapy between the two groups (the first dose of heparin anticoagulation group: Z=-0.529, P=0.480; the first-dose plus maintenance heparin anticoagulation group: Z=-0.276, P=0.362). Conclusion: Anticoagulation scheme without maintenance medication is feasible with prothrombin activity before ≤20-40%, activated partial thromboplastin time of ≤87 s (2 times the upper normal value), platelet count before treatment (excluding contraindications to heparin) ≥50×10⁹/L, and the first dose of heparin administration of 0.2 mg/kg during PA therapy in patients with liver failure.

[Numerical simulation modeling of middle ear-eustachian tube ventilation based on Chinese digital visual human body]

Objective: To establish a three-dimensional model of middle ear-eustachian tube based on Chinese digital visual human dataset, and the deformation and pressure changes of the middle ear-eustachian tube system after eustachian tube opening are simulated by computer numerical simulation. Methods: The first female Chinese Digital Visual Human data was adopted. The images were imported by Amira image processing software, and the images were segmented by Geomagic software to form a three-dimensional model of middle ear-eustachian tube system, including eustachian tube, tympanum, tympanic membrane, auditory ossicles, and mastoid air cells system. The 3D model was imported into Hypermesh software for meshing and analysis. The structural mechanics calculation was carried out by Abaqus, and gas flow was simulated by Xflow. The tissue deformation and middle ear pressure changes during eustachian tube opening were numerically simulated by fluid-solid coupling algorithm. Several pressure monitoring points including tympanum, mastoid, tympanic isthmus, and external auditory canal were set up in the model, and the pressure changes of each monitoring point were recorded and compared. Results: In this study, a three-dimensional model of middle ear-eustachian tube and a numerical simulation model of middle ear ventilation were established, including eustachian tube, tympanum, mastoid air cells, tympanic membrane, and auditory ossicles. The dynamic changes of the model after ventilation could be divided into five stages according to the pressure. In addition, the pressure changes of tympanum and tympanic isthmus were basically synchronous, and the pressure changes of mastoid air cells system were later than that of tympanum and tympanic isthmus, which verified the pressure buffering effect of mastoid. The extracted pressure curve of the external auditory canal was basically consistent with that of tympanometry in terms of value and trend, which verified the effectiveness of the model. Conclusions: The numerical simulation model of middle ear-eustachian tube ventilation established in this paper can simulate the tissue deformation and middle ear pressure changes after eustachian tube opening, and its accuracy and effectiveness are also verified. This not only lays a foundation for further research, but also provides a new research method for the study of middle ear ventilation.

[Investigation on noise exposure level and health status of workers in transportation equipment manufacturing industry]

Objective: To explore the noise exposure level and the health status of workers in transportation equipment manufacturing industry, and provide a scientific basis for guidance and implementation of intervention measures. Methods: From January to December in 2019, a total of 2088 noise workers from a large enterprise were selected by cluster sampling method in railway transportation equipment manufacturing, automobile manufacturing and aerospace aircraft manufacturing enterprises. The worker's noise exposure level was detected. Occupational health checkups were performed on the noise workers including electrical audiometry, blood pressure and electrocardiogram. χ(2) test and trend χ(2) test were used to analyze the data. Results: The noise exposure level of 66.9% (1396/2088) workers exceeded 85 dB (A) , and the median noise level was 87.9 (84.3-90.3) dB (A) . Among them, workers of railway transportation equipment manufacturing enterprises had the highest noise exposure level[89.9 (87.8-91.6) dB (A) ]. The detection rate of high-frequency hearing loss, abnormal blood pressure and abnormal electrocardiogram of noise workers were 15.7% (327/2088) , 18.1% (378/2088) and 6.1% (128/2088) , respectively. The differences in the detection rates of high-frequency hearing loss, abnormal blood pressure, and abnormal electrocardiogram in workers of railway transportation equipment manufacturing enterprises, automobile manufacturing enterprises, and aerospace manufacturing enterprises were statistically significant (P<0.05) . Workers of railway transportation equipment manufacturing enterprises had higher detection rates of high-frequency hearing loss (17.6%, 186/1056) . Workers of aerospace manufacturing enterprises had higher detection rates of abnormal blood pressure and abnormal electrocardiogram (26.3%, 169/642; 10.0%, 64/642) . The differences in the detection rates of high-frequency hearing loss, abnormal blood pressure and abnormal electrocardiogram of noise workers were statistically significant in different age and working age groups, and gradually increased with age and working age (P<0.05) . The difference in the detection rate of high-frequency hearing loss of noise workers was statistically significant in different noise intensity groups, and the overall trend was increasing (P<0.05) . Conclusion: The transportation equipment manufacturing industry has serious noise hazards, especially the railway transportation equipment manufacturing industry. Long-term occupational noise exposure can adversely affect workers' hearing and cardiovascular system. Enterprises should strengthen occupational health inspections, and at the same time, take personal protective measures to protect the health of workers.

[Protective effect of baicalein on high fat-induced hepatocytes oxidative damage]

Objective: To investigate the effect of baicalein in improving non-alcoholic fatty liver disease caused by high fat-induced oxidative damage in mice. Methods: Male C57BL/6J mice weighing 18-20 g were randomly divided into 4 groups: normal control group (C, 10% fat for energy), high-fat group (H, 60% fat for energy), high-fat + scutellaria baicalein group (H+B, baicalein: 400 mg·kg(-1)·bw(-1)), and baicalein control group (B, baicalein: 400 mg·kg(-1)·bw(-1)). After 12 weeks, mice were sacrificed, and the tissue samples were collected. Liver pathological changes were observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Mitochondrial morphology was examined by ultramicropathology. Malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH) and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) changing levels in the liver were determined by kit. Sestrin2 and protein carbonylation (PCOS) levels were detected by Western blotting. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to knock-down the Sestrin2 protein expression in HepG2 cells. Intramyocellular lipid changes in HepG2 cells was detected by fluorescent dye BODIPY493/503. One way ANOVA was used LSD pairwise comparison method was used to test the statistical difference. Results: Compared with the normal control group, high-fat fed caused significant fatty degeneration, decreased GSH and SOD levels (P ​​< 0.05), increased MDA and protein carbonylation levels, and increased Sestrin2 expression (P < 0.05) in mice. Mitochondrial shape changes, swelling, lack of cristae, and MMP was down-regulated by 33.3% (t = 13.456, P ​​< 0.001). Baicalein intervention had effectively inhibited hepatic steatosis and oxidative damage caused by high-fat fed, and further up-regulated Sestrin2 expression, MMP (t = 10.104, P ​​< 0.001), and significantly alleviated liver damage in mice. Sestrin2 expression knock-down had further increased the intracellular lipid deposition and PCOs expression (P ​​< 0.05), and reduced baicalein ability to antagonize lipid deposition and antioxidant capacity in Hep2 cells. Conclusion: Baicalein alleviate non-alcoholic fatty liver by regulating Sestrin2 expression and high-fat fed-induced liver oxidative damage.

[Application of artificial intelligence-assisted diagnosis for cervical liquid-based thin-layer cytology]

Objective: To explore the application value of artificial intelligence-assisted diagnosis system for TBS report in cervical cancer screening. Methods: A total of 16 317 clinical samples and related data of cervical liquid-based thin-layer cell smears, which were obtained from July 2020 to September 2020, were collected from Southern Hospital, Guangzhou Huayin Medical Inspection Center, Shenzhen Bao'an People's Hospital(Group) and Changsha Yuan'an Biotechnology Co., Ltd. The TBS report artificial intelligence-assisted diagnosis system of cervical liquid-based thin-layer cytology jointly developed by Southern Medical University and Guangzhou F. Q. PATHOTECH Co., Ltd. based on deep learning convolution neural network was used to diagnose all clinical samples. The sensitivity,specificity and accuracy of both artificial intelligence-assisted diagnosis system and cytologists using artificial intelligence-assisted diagnosis system were analyzed based on the evaluation standard(2014 TBS). The time spent by the two methods was also compared. Results: The sensitivity of artificial intelligence-assisted diagnosis system in predicting cervical intraepithelial lesions and other lesions (including endometrial cells detected in women over 45 years old and infectious lesions) under different production methods, different cytoplasmic staining and different scanning instruments was 92.90% and 83.55% respectively, and the specificity of negative samples was 87.02%, while that of cytologists using artificial intelligence-assisted diagnosis system was 99.34%, 97.79% and 99.10%, respectively. Moreover, cytologists using artificial intelligence-assisted diagnosis system could save about 6 times of reading time than manual. Conclusions: Artificial intelligence-assisted diagnosis system for TBS report of cervical liquid-based thin-layer cytology has the advantages of high sensitivity, high specificity and strong generalization. Cytologists can significantly improve the accuracy and work efficiency of reading smears by using artificial intelligence-assisted diagnosis system.

[Expression of tropomyosin 2 in aortic dissection tissue]

Objective: To investigate the expression pattern of tropomyosin 2(TPM2) in aorta of patients with aortic dissection and explore its clinical implication. Methods: Thirteen cases with acute type A aortic dissection(TAAD) diagnosed by transabdominal aortic angiography from 2015 in Tongji Hospital were included. During the operation, the aortic wall tissues of these patients were collected. Ten patients with heart transplantation were selected as control group, and normal aortic wall tissues were taken. The hematoxylin-eosin (HE) and Verhoeff's Van Gieson (EVG) staining were performed to observe the morphological changes of aorta. The mRNA expression level of TPM2 was measured by real-time fluorescent quantitative-PCR, and the protein levels of TPM2 were detected by Western blot and immunohistochemical staining. Image The J software was used to collect the optical density values of each point on the image, obtain the integrated optical density(IOD) value, and calculate the average density(%, IOD/area of the target distribution area). Results: HE and EVG staining revealed medial degeneration and broken elastic fiber in aorta of TAAD patients. The mRNA expression levels of TPM2 were significantly upregulated in aorta of TAAD patients as compared to the control group (P<0.05), so as the TPM2 protein expression levels ((9.73±1.20)% vs. (0.11±0.04)%, P<0.05). And TPM2 was mainly expressed in cytoplasm. Conclusion: The increased expression of TPM2 in TAAD patients hints that TPM2 might be involved in the pathogenesis of aortic dissection.

[Analysis of hearing surveillance of noise-exposed workers in Zhuzhou city]

Objective: To understand the hearing loss status of workers exposed to noise, and provide a scientific basis for formulating effective prevention and control strategies. Methods: From Januaryl to October 31 , 2018, through the occupational hazard declaration and record management system of the workplace and the health checkup system , the basic information and physical examination information of 7806 noise-exposed workers in 136 companies in Zhuzhou City in 2018 and the related information about the industry, type, and scale of the enterprises were collected. The χ(2) test was used to analyze the occupational health monitoring data of the noise-exposed workers. Results: The average age of 7806 workers in Zhuzhou was(36. 1±9. 3) years, and the working age was 7. 0(3. 0, 11. 0) years. And 1 270 workers with noise induced hearing loss(NIHL) were detected, including 51 suspected occupational noise deafness. The detection rates of NIHL and the suspected occupational noise deafness were 16. 27% , 0. 65% , respectively. The detection rate of noise was 0.01% in 1deaf person. It showed that the male had higher morbidity than the female (P<0. 05) and the workers with longer exposure time had a higher morbidity (P<0. 05) . There was a statistically significant difference in the detection rate of NIHL and suspected occupational noise deafness between workers of different types of work (P<0. 05 ) . It was noted that the morbidity varied in different enterprises, industry types and terms of scales (P<0. 05 ) . Non- metal ore mining and dressing industry workers had higher NIHL detection rate (33. 33%, 14/42) and small companies workers had higher NIHL detection rate(19. 32%, 296/1532) . There was a statistically significant difference in the detection rate of suspected occupational noise deafness between workers of different economic types of enterprises. There was a high detection rate of suspected occupational noise deafness among workers in private enterprises(1. 29%, 36/2782) . Conclusion: The noise operation in Zhuzhou is seriously endangered.Occupational health protection measures for non-metallic mining and dressing industries, small and private enterprises should be strengthened.Occupational health law enforcement efforts should be strengthened to protect workers' health.

[Comparison of clinical efficacy between first-generation and second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors based regimen in the treatment of patients with BCR-ABL positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia]

Objective: To explore the clinical efficacy and prognostic factors of first-generation and second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) based regimen in the treatment of patients with BCR-ABL positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) . Methods: Retrospectively analyze the clinical characteristics and prognostic factors of 89 patients with BCR-ABL positive ALL from April 2012 to June 2018 in our hospital, the clinical efficacy of first-generation and second-generation TKI was compared. Results: 60 patients were classified into the first-generation TKI (imatinib) group, and 29 patients were in the second-generation TKI (dasatinib) group. There were no significant differences in gender, age, WBC, hemoglobin concentration, PLT, chromosomal karyotype, the types of fusion genes, allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) and TKI initiation time between the two groups. The first-generation and second-generation TKI groups, for which the complete remission (CR) rate at the fourth week of induction therapy was 83.3% and 89.7% (P=0.637) , respectively, and the complete molecular remission (CMR) was 48.3%and 58.6% (P=0.363) , respectively, the difference was not statistically significant. The 2-year overall survival (OS) rate of first-generation and second-generation TKI group was 34.9% and 64.0% (χ(2)=4.743, P=0.029) , the 2-year relapse free survival (RFS) rate was 17.2% and 55.0% (χ(2)=8.801, P=0.003) , respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that complete molecular remission (HR=0.281, 95%CI 0.151-0.523, P<0.001) was independent favorable prognostic factor for overall survival (OS) , complete molecular remission (HR=0.209, 95%CI 0.112-0.390, P<0.001) and second-generation TKI (HR=0.318, 95%CI 0.158-0.641, P=0.001) were independent favorable prognostic factors for RFS. Conclusion: For TKI-based regimen of BCR-ABL positive ALL, second-generation TKI is superior to first-generation TKI in OS and RFS time.

[Research progress on the role of IL-33/ST2 axis in pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis]

SummaryThe binding of IL-33 and its receptor ST2 plays a key role in the development of cardiovascular diseases, chronic inflammation, allergic diseases and fibrosis related diseases. The study of the relationship between IL-33/ST2 signaling pathway and these diseases may provide new ideas and methods for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Although many high-quality studies have been done on the role of IL-33/ST2 signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis, there is still a lack of comprehensive and clear explanation. This paper reviews the role of IL-33/ST2 signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis on the basis of literature review. This signaling pathway can be used to guide the treatment of allergic rhinitis in theory.

[Application of machine learning models in predicting early stone-free rate after flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy for renal stones]

OBJECTIVE

To establish predictive models based on random forest and XGBoost machine learning algorithm and to investigate their value in predicting early stone-free rate (SFR) after flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy (fURL) in patients with renal stones.

METHODS

The clinical data of 201 patients with renal stones who underwent fURL were retrospectively investigated. According to the stone-free standard, the patients were divided into stone-free group (SF group) and stone-residual group (SR group). We compared a number of factors including patient age, body mass index (BMI), stone number, stone volume, stone density and hydronephrosis between the two groups. For low calyceal calculi, renal anatomic parameters including infundibular angle (IPA), infundibular width (IW), infundibular length (IL) and pelvic calyceal height (PCH), would be measured. We brought above potential predictive factors into random forest and XGBoost machine learning algorithm respectively to develop two predictive models. The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve) was established in order to test the predictive ability of the model. Clinical data of 71 patients were collected prospectively to validate the predictive models externally.

RESULTS

In this study, 201 fURL operations were successfully completed. The one-phase early SFR was 61.2%. We built two predictive models based on random forest and XGBoost machine learning algorithm. The predictive variables' importance scores were obtained. The area under the ROC curve (AUROC) of the two predictive models for early stone clearance status prediction was 0.77. In the study, 71 test samples were used for external validation. The results showed that the total predictive accuracy, predictive specificity and predictive sensitivity of the random forest and XGBoost models were 75.7%, 82.6%, 60.0%, and 81.4%, 87.0%, 68.0%, respectively. The first four predictive variables in importance were stone volume, mean stone density, maximal stone density and BMI in both random forest and XGBoost predictive models.

CONCLUSION

The predictive models based on random forest and XGBoost machine learning algorithm can predict postoperative early stone status after fURL for renal stones accurately, which will facilitate preoperative evaluation and clinical decision-making. Stone volume, mean stone density, maximal stone density and BMI may be the important predictive factors affecting early SFR after fURL for renal stones.

[Construction of mouse CCR3 gene RNAi lentivirus vector and its expression on mast cells]

Objective:The aim of this study is to screen the targeting chemokine receptor 3-RNA interference (CCR3-RNAi) lentiviral expression vector, infect mouse mast cells,observe the expression of this gene in mast cells and the interference efficiency of the virus vector.The pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis lays the foundation.Method:Three pairs of CCR3-shRNA sequences were constructed,and three pairs of double-stranded shRNA oligo were inserted into shRNA lentiviral vectors to construct three shRNA lentiviral recombinant plasmids.The recombinant vector and virus-packed auxiliary plasmids were co-transfected into 293T cells to obtain lentiviral plasmids.The lentiviral plasmids were then transfected into mouse bone marrow-derived mast cells in vitro and purified. The expression level of CCR3 mRNA in mast cells was verified by qRT-PCR,and the expression level of CCR3 protein in mast cells was detected by Western Blot.Result: It was confirmed by sequencing that the lentiviral vector of CCR3 shRNA was successfully constructed, transfected into 293T cells and packaged with virus. Finally the high purity PDSO19-PL-CCR3 lentiviral plasmid was obtained with a virus titer of 3.7×10⁸TU/ml.The lentiviral plasmid was used to infect mouse mast cells.RT-PCR and Western Blot detection assay showed that CCR3shRNA reduced the expression of CCR3 gene in mouse mast cells at the level of mRNA and protein.Conclusion: The CCR3 gene RNAi lentivirus expression vector was successfully constructed.It was found that it downregulated the expression level of CCR3 gene mRNA and protein in mouse mast cells,which laid the foundation for further research on its role in the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis.

[Application of U-shaped convolutional neural network in auto segmentation and reconstruction of 3D prostate model in laparoscopic prostatectomy navigation]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the efficacy of intraoperative cognitive navigation on laparoscopic radical prostatectomy using 3D prostatic models created by U-shaped convolutional neural network (U-net) and reconstructed through Medical Image Interaction Tool Kit (MITK) platform.

METHODS

A total of 5 000 pieces of prostate cancer magnetic resonance (MR) imaging discovery sets with manual annotations were used to train a modified U-net, and a set of clinically demand-oriented, stable and efficient full convolutional neural network algorithm was constructed. The MR images were cropped and segmented automatically by using modified U-net, and the segmentation data were automatically reconstructed using MITK platform according to our own protocols. The modeling data were output as STL format, and the prostate models were simultaneously displayed on an android tablet during the operation to help achieving cognitive navigation.

RESULTS

Based on original U-net architecture, we established a modified U-net from a 201-case MR imaging training set. The network performance was tested and compared with human segmentations and other segmentation networks by using one certain testing data set. Auto segmentation of multi-structures (such as prostate, prostate tumors, seminal vesicles, rectus, neurovascular bundles and dorsal venous complex) were successfully achieved. Secondary automatic 3D reconstruction had been carried out through MITK platform. During the surgery, 3D models of prostatic area were simultaneously displayed on an android tablet, and the cognitive navigation was successfully achieved. Intra-operation organ visualization demonstrated the structural relationships among the key structures in great detail and the degree of tumor invasion was visualized directly.

CONCLUSION

The modified U-net was able to achieve automatic segmentations of important structures of prostate area. Secondary 3D model reconstruction and demonstration could provide intraoperative visualization of vital structures of prostate area, which could help achieve cognitive fusion navigation for surgeons. The application of these techniques could finally reduce positive surgical margin rates, and may improve the efficacy and oncological outcomes of laparoscopic prostatectomy.

Li(Cd,Mn)P: a new cadmium based diluted ferromagnetic semiconductor with independent spin & charge doping

We report a new diluted ferromagnetic semiconductor Li_1+y(Cd,Mn)P, wherein carrier is doped via excess Li while spin is doped by isovalence substitution of Mn²⁺ into Cd²⁺. The extended Cd 4d-orbitals lead to more itinerant characters of Li_1+y(Cd,Mn)P than that of analogous Li_1+y(Zn,Mn)P. A higher Curie temperature of 45 K than that for Li_1+y(Zn,Mn)P is obtained in Li_1+y(Cd,Mn)P polycrystalline samples by Arrott plot technique. The p-type carriers are determined by Hall effect measurements. The first principle calculations and X-ray diffraction measurements indicate that occupation of excess Li is at Cd sites rather than the interstitial site. Consequently holes are doped by excess Li substitution. More interestingly Li_1+y(Cd,Mn)P shows a very low coercive field (<100 Oe) and giant negative magnetoresistance (~80%) in ferromagnetic state that will benefit potential spintronics applications.

CAFs secreted exosomes promote metastasis and chemotherapy resistance by enhancing cell stemness and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are key stroma cells that play dominant roles in tumor progression. However, the CAFs-derived molecular determinants that regulate colorectal cancer (CRC) metastasis and chemoresistance have not been fully characterized.

METHODS

CAFs and NFs were obtained from fresh CRC and adjacent normal tissues. Exosomes were isolated from conditioned medium and serum of CRC patients using ultracentrifugation method and ExoQuick Exosome Precipitation Solution kit, and characterized by transmission electronic microscopy, nanosight and western blot. MicroRNA microarray was employed to identify differentially expressed miRNAs in exosomes secreted by CAFs or NFs. The internalization of exosomes, transfer of miR-92a-3p was observed by immunofluorescence. Boyden chamber migration and invasion, cell counting kit-8, flow cytometry, plate colony formation, sphere formation assays, tail vein injection and primary colon cancer liver metastasis assays were employed to explore the effect of NFs, CAFs and exosomes secreted by them on epithelial-mesenchymal transition, stemness, metastasis and chemotherapy resistance of CRC. Luciferase report assay, real-time qPCR, western blot, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry staining were employed to explore the regulation of CRC metastasis and chemotherapy resistance by miR-92a-3p, FBXW7 and MOAP1.

RESULTS

CAFs promote the stemness, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), metastasis and chemotherapy resistance of CRC cells. Importantly, CAFs exert their roles by directly transferring exosomes to CRC cells, leading to a significant increase of miR-92a-3p level in CRC cells. Mechanically, increased expression of miR-92a-3p activates Wnt/β-catenin pathway and inhibits mitochondrial apoptosis by directly inhibiting FBXW7 and MOAP1, contributing to cell stemness, EMT, metastasis and 5-FU/L-OHP resistance in CRC. Clinically, miR-92a-3p expression is significantly increased in CRC tissues and negatively correlated with the levels of FBXW7 and MOAP1 in CRC specimens, and high expression of exosomal miR-92a-3p in serum was highly linked with metastasis and chemotherapy resistance in CRC patients.

CONCLUSIONS

CAFs secreted exosomes promote metastasis and chemotherapy resistance of CRC. Inhibiting exosomal miR-92a-3p provides an alternative modality for the prediction and treatment of metastasis and chemotherapy resistance in CRC.

[Children's non-carcinogenic health risk assessment of heavy metals exposure to residential indoor dust around an e-waste dismantling area in South China]

Objective: To evaluate the non-carcinogenic health risk of heavy metals (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Mn, Pb and Zn) in residential indoor dust for young children around an e-waste dismantling area in South China. Methods: A village around an e-waste dismantling area in South China was selected as a research site in October 2016. Convenience sampling method was used to select 36 houses in the village and 36 dust samples were collected by vacuum cleaner. The concentrations of heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Mn, Pb and Zn) in each sample were determined and expressed by the average value. Non-carcinogenic health risk assessment was conducted using the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Health Risk Assessment (HRA) model, the American Toxicology and Disease Registry (ATSDR) Target-organ Toxicity Dose (TTD) approach and the ATSDR Binary Weight-of-Evidence (BINWOE) model. Results: The mean ± SD of concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Mn, Pb and Zn were (48.90±33.91), (5.95±3.89), (173.57±580.37), (412.71±1 190.00), (612.82±540.70), (297.41±293.22) and (1 052.81±1 156.48) mg/kg, respectively. The HI value of TTD (2.670) and BINWOE (2.933) were higher than the safety threshold of EPA recommended non-carcinogenic health risk. The HI value of TTD and BINWOE were 1.93 and 2.12 times higher than the HI value of HRA (1.386). Conclusion: There was non-carcinogenic health risk of heavy metals (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Mn, Pb and Zn) via residential indoor dust around the e-waste dismantling area for local children.

[Analysis of changes in serological factors in the dose-increasing phase of allergic rhinitis rush immunotherapy]

Objective:To observe the changes of serological factors in the dose-increasing phase of allergic rhinitis and to explore the mechanism of short-term rush immunotherapy.Method:The clinical data of 110 patients with allergic rhinitis diagnosed by rush immunotherapy in our hospital were analyzed. According to the results of allergen test（sIgE）, they were divided into simple dust mite allergy group and multiple allergen allergy groups. The serum of the patients were taken before the start of rush immunotherapy and the first day after the end of the dose-increasing phase.Serum total IgE and IgG before and after rush immunotherapy were detected by Beekman specific protein detector. The serum levels of IFN-γ,IL-12,IL-10,IgG1 and IgG4 were measured by ELISA before and after rush immunotherapy. The changes of them were compared and analyzed.Result:①Serum total IgE and IgG were increased after rush immunotherapy, and the change of serum IgG concentration in the simple dust mite allergy group was statistically significant（P<0.05).②The levels of serum IFN-γ, IL-12 and IL-10 increased after rush immunotherapy. The changes of IL-12 and IFN-γ in multiple allergen allergy groups were not significant before and after treatment, while the changes in other groups were statistically significant（P<0.05).③Serum total IgG1 and IgG4 were increased after rush immunotherapy. The changes of serum IgG4 in the simple dust mite allergy group were statistically significant(P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in serum IgG1.Conclusion:The dose-increasing phase of rush immunotherapy can stimulate the production of IgG antibodies and the changes of related serological factors in a short period of time, especially in patients with simple dust mite allergy group. It indicates that dose-increasing phase of rush immunotherapy may play a role by regulating immunoglobulin and adjusting the dynamic balance of Th1/Th2 factors.

[Research on immune regulation mechanism of immunotherapy for allergic rhinitis]

Immunotherapy, among all the treatments of allergic rhinitis, is the only one which aims directly at etiological factor.Even though, subcutaneous immunotherapy is a widely used and effective therapeutic method in clinical practice, there is no definite answer in the current research about how it regulates the immune mechanism of allergic rhinitis, that is, how to predict the curative effect according to its objective indicators. In order to have an insight into its clinical role in the immune mechanism of allergic rhinitis,this article will have an overview about it, on the basis of the pertinent medical literature.

[Research on the effect of RNA interference on mast cells in respiratory allergic diseases]

Respiratory allergic disease has become a major health problem in the 21st century.Mast cells are key effector cells of the respiratory anaphylaxis, and can form a variety of features of allergic inflammation by producting large numbers of inflammatory mediators.RNAi can affect the disease process by silencing gene expression, and has made significant process in the study of many diseases, but the research of targeting mast cells for the treatment of respiratory allergic diseases is rare.This review focuses on recent advances of the application of RNA interference on mast cell in respiratory allergic diseases, aming to further understand its application in the respiratory allergic diseases and research status, and broaden new ideas of treating respiratory allergies.

Flexible MRI Compatible Brain Probes

The exact localization of signal recording probes or deep stimulation probes by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has significant importance in studying and understanding how the brain functions. But the magnetic susceptibility of the probes itself distorts the MRI image and creates error in position measurement. In this paper we propose an MRI compatible flexible probe with magnetic susceptibility that is well matched with the brain tissue. The well-matched magnetic susceptibility of the probe enables high resolution structural and functional MRI even at ultra-high Bfield strengths. The MRI images shows almost zero artifacts around the implanted probe in the phantom tissue.

[The roles of holothurian glycosaminoglycan combined with cisplatin on proliferation and chemotherapeutic response in A549 human lung adenocarcinoma cell]

Objective: To investigate the effects and mechanism of Holothurian Glycosaminoglycan (hGAG) alone in combination with cisplatin (DDP) on apoptosis of pulmonary adenocarcinoma cell A549. Methods: A549 cells were separately treated with blank, hGAG, DDP and hGAG combined with DDP (hGAG + DDP). The cell morphology in 4 groups was observed using light microscope. CCK8 assay was used to determine the cell viability. Flow cytometry by Hoechst 33258 and AnnexinV-FITC/PI staining was applied to detect cell apoptosis. Western blot was then used to detect the protein expression of Bax, Bcl-2, survivin and caspase-3. Results: After treatment for 24 h, the inhibitory rates of A549 cells in control, hGAG, DDP and hGAG + DDP groups were 0, (19.74±5.39)%, (42.01±2.57)% and (53.89±4.58)%, respectively. Moreover, after treatment for 48 h and 72 h, the inhibitory rates in each group were 0, (23.17±4.78)% and (29.17±4.21 )%, (54.00±7.64)% and (59.35±7.31)%, as well as (77.58±4.26)% and (79.94±4.58)%, respectively. The cell viability was significantly lower in drug treatment groups compared with those in control group at the same time point (P<0.05). Hochest 33258 staining showed that no obvious apoptotic cells were detected in the control group, while apoptotic cells were visible in hGAG, cisplatin and combination groups. Flow cytometry showed that cell apoptotic rates were (2.38±0.59)%, (12.59±4.22)%, (16.36±3.63)% and (44.60±5.45)% in the control, hGAG, DDP and hGAG + DDP groups, respectively. The cell apoptosis was significantly lower in drug treatment groups compared with those in control group at the same time point (P<0.05). Furthermore, western blot results showed that the expression of Bax and caspase-3 protein was increased (P<0.05), whereas Bcl-2 and survivin was decreased (P<0.05) in the hGAG+ DDP group compared with cisplatin alone (P<0.05). Conclusions: HGAG can inhibit the proliferation and promote the apoptosis of human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells. Meanwhile, it can strengthen the chemosensitivity of A549 cells to DDP via up-regulation of Bax, caspase-3 and down-regulation of Bcl-2 and survivin.

[A preliminary evaluation of mental status and an investigation of occupational health knowledge demand in operating and maintenance personnel in wind power plants]

Objective: To investigate the mental status, level of occupational health knowledge, health behaviors, and occupational health knowledge demand in operating and maintenance personnel in wind power plants, and to provide a basis for formulating protective measures of occupational health for operating and maintenance personnel in wind power plants. Methods: A cluster sampling was performed in regionally representative wind power plants in the wind power industry from May 2014 to June 2015, and the Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90) and a self-made evaluation questionnaire were used to investigate the general status, mental health, and occupational health knowledge demand in 160 operating and maintenance workers. Results: Of all respondents, 26.9% had mental health issues. The awareness rate of infectious disease knowledge and preventive measures was 11.9%. Of all workers, 96.5% wanted to know the occupational hazard factors in the workplace, and 96.3% wanted to get the knowledge of the prevention of related diseases. Conclusion: Mental health issues in operating and maintenance personnel in wind power plants cannot be neglected and there is a high demand for occupational health services and related knowledge. Comprehensive intervention measures for health promotion in the workplace should be adopted to improve working environment, enhance individual mental health education, increase the level of occupational health management, and protect the health of workers.

[Pharyngeal space carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma：a case report]

Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma is an epithelial malignant tumor of pleomorphic adenoma. This may be due to the accumulation of genetic instability caused by long-term pleomorphic adenomas. There are few reports of parapharyngeal space carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma in the literature study both at home and abroad. This article retrospectively summarized the clinical data of 1 case of pharyngeal space carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma and reviewed the literature. We strengthened the understanding of parapharyngeal space carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma, improve the accuracy of diagnosis and reduce misdiagnosis and mistreatment.

[Effect of CCR3 gene knockout on eosinophils in mice]

Objective:To investigate the effect of CCR3 gene knockout on the proliferation, maturation and apoptosis of eosinophils (EOS) in mice. Method:Bone marrow cells from CCR3 gene knockout mice (experimental group) and wild-type mice (control group) were cultured in vitro and induced differentiation into mature EOS. EOS proliferation was observed by cell counting.Expression of degranulation protein mRNA was detected by qRT-PCR. EOS apoptosis was detected by Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining method. Result:①The number of cells on the 0-14 day of EOS cultured in vitro showed that the number of cells in the experimental group was less than that in the control group at tenth, twelfth, fourteenth days, and the proliferation was slower, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.01). ②The test results of EOS cells apoptosis showed that, under the condition of containing 10 ng/ml IL-5 or no IL-5, the apoptosis rate of EOS cells in experimental group was higher than that in normal control group, the difference between both groups was statistically significant (P<0.01). ③The expression results of ECP, EPO, MBP mRNA in EOS showed that the expression levels of ECP, EPO, MBP mRNA in the experimental group compared with the normal control group were reduced in varying degrees, the difference between both groups was statistically significant (P<0.05). Conclusion:Knockout CCR3 gene can inhibit the proliferation and maturation of EOS and promote its apoptosis, which provides a theoretical basis for CCR3 as a target gene to treat allergic rhinitis.

FMNL2 destabilises COMMD10 to activate NF-κB pathway in invasion and metastasis of colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Diaphanous-related formins (DRFs), actin necleator, have been known to participate in the progression of cancer cells. We previously reported that FMNL2 (Formin-like2), a member of DRFs, was a positive regulator in colorectal cancer (CRC) metastasis, yet proteins and pathways required for the function of this pro-invasive DRFs remain to be identified.

METHODS

The relationship between FMNL2 and COMMD10 was examined using Co-IP, GST pull-down, immunofluorescence and in vitro ubiquitination assay. The in vitro and in vivo function of COMMD10 in CRC was evaluated using CCK-8 proliferation assay, plate colony formation, cell cycle, apoptosis and animal models. The inhibition of NF-κB signalling by COMMD10 was detected using dual-luciferase reporter assay and western blotting. Co-IP, GST pull-down and nuclear protein extraction assay were performed to evaluate the effect on p65 by COMMD10. Real-time PCR and western blotting were performed to detect expressions of FMNL2, COMMD10 and p65 in paired tissues.

RESULTS

FMNL2 targets COMMD10 for ubiquitin-mediated proteasome degradation in CRC cells. COMMD10 targets p65 NF-κB (nuclear factor-κB) subunit and reduces its nuclear translocation, thereby leading to the inactivation of NF-κB pathway and suppression of CRC invasion and metastasis. Inhibition of NF-κB signalling by COMMD10 is necessary for FMNL2-mediated CRC cell behaviours. Downregulation of COMMD10 predicts poor prognosis of CRC patients. The expressions of FMNL2, COMMD10 and p65 are highly linked in CRC tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

These data demonstrate that the FMNL2/COMMD10/p65 axis acts as a critical regulator in the maintenance of metastatic phenotypes and is strongly associated with negative clinical outcomes.

[Clinical characteristics and prognosis of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma]

Objective: To investigate the clinical characteristics, treatment outcomes and prognostic factors in patients with anaplastic thyroid cancer. Methods: Clinical data of 56 patients with anaplastic thyroid cancer at Zhejiang Cancer Hospital from January 2006 to June 2016 were retrospectively reviewed and followed up. Results: Of the 56 patients, there were 24 male and 32 female. The median age was 65 years old. At diagnosis, 10 patients have different degrees of breathing difficulty; 8 patients have varying degrees of dysphagia, and 12 patients have hoarseness. Distant metastases were found in 23 patients at presentation. Patient staging was performed in accordance with the tumor-node-metastasis system as follows: stage ⅣA (n=19), stage ⅣB (n=14) and stage ⅣC (n=23). The median survival time of 56 patients was 4.5 months.The overall 1-year survival rate was 5.4%. Univariate analysis showed that radiotherapy and multimodality therapy were prognostic factors for 1-year overall survival (both of P<0.05). The overall 1-year survival rate of the patients who received precision radiotherapy was 16.7%, which was higher than who received the other radiation therapy (4.0%, P=0.040). Furthermore, the overall 1-year survival rate of the patients who received surgery combined with radiotherapy was 12.5%, which was higher than who received the other treatments(4.2%, P=0.040). Multivariate analysis indicated that radiotherapy was independently associated with improved survival (P=0.020). Conclusions: Patients with anaplastic thyroid cancer should receive multimodality therapies combining surgery with radiotherapy. Radiotherapy is independently associated with improved overall survival. Notably, the precision radiotherapy that based on image guidance has a significantly beneficial impact on the prognosis of patients.

[Outcome analysis of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for 41 patients with severe aplastic anemia]

目的

评价异基因造血干细胞移植（allo-HSCT）治疗重型再生障碍性贫血（SAA）患者的疗效。

方法

回顾性分析2001年10月至2015年5月接受allo-HSCT治疗的41例SAA患者的临床资料。其中男27例，女14例，中位年龄为17(2~43）岁。其中同胞相合移植24例，无关供者移植17例。

结果

38例患者移植后获得造血重建，造血重建率为92.68%。可评估患者的中性粒细胞和血小板的中位植入时间分别为16(10~57) d和20(9~83) d。13例发生急性移植物抗宿主病（aGVHD），8例发生慢性移植物抗宿主病，5例发生移植物排斥反应。中位随访27(3~154）个月，预期3年总生存（OS）率为（75.1±8.3）%。10例患者死亡，移植相关死亡率为24.39%。多因素分析结果显示：移植后发生Ⅱ~Ⅳ度aGVHD[P=0.018，OR=27.481(95% CI 2.377~392.636）]和侵袭性真菌病[P=0.021，OR=21.364(95% CI 1.732~354.185）]为影响SAA患者allo-HSCT后OS的独立危险因素。

结论

同胞相合供者和HLA匹配的无关供者allo-HSCT是治疗SAA患者的有效手段，Ⅱ~Ⅳ度aGVHD和侵袭性真菌病与移植后OS率较低有关。

Down-regulation of DAB2IP promotes colorectal cancer invasion and metastasis by translocating hnRNPK into nucleus to enhance the transcription of MMP2

DOC-2/DAB2 interacting protein (DAB2IP) is a RasGAP protein that shows a suppressive effect on cancer progression. Our previous study showed the involvement of transcription regulation of DAB2IP in metastasis of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the molecular mechanisms of DAB2IP in regulating the progression of CRC need to be further explored. Here, we identified heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNPK) and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) as vital downstream targets of DAB2IP in CRC cells by two-dimensional fluorescence difference gel electrophoresis and cDNA microassay, respectively. Mechanistically, down-regulation of DAB2IP increased the level of hnRNPK through MAPK/ERK signaling pathway. Subsequently, translocation of hnRNPK into nucleus enhanced the transcription activity of MMP2, and therefore promoted invasion and metastasis of CRC. Down-regulation of DAB2IP correlated negatively with hnRNPK and MMP2 expressions in CRC tissues. In conclusion, our study elucidates a novel mechanism of the DAB2IP/hnRNPK/MMP2 axis in the regulation of CRC invasion and metastasis, which may be a potential therapeutic target.

[A comparative study of unrelated donor and matched-sibling donor allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in children and adolescents with acquired severe aplastic anemia]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of unrelated donor allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation(URD allo-HSCT) for children and adolescents with severe aplastic anemia (SAA). Methods: Clinical data of 34 SAA children and adolescents undergoing allo-HSCT were retrospectively analyzed from October 2001 to October 2015. According to the source of donor, the patients were divided into matched sibling donor allo-HSCT group (MSD group) and unrelated donor group (URD group). The clinical outcome of SAA children and adolescents receiving URD allo-HSCT was assessed, and patients in MSD allo-HSCT group were enrolled as control at the same period. Results: The rate of hematopoietic reconstitution, the time of neutrophil and platelet engraftment, incidence of chimerism and graft rejection between two groups were not statistically different.The incidence of acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in URD group was significantly higher than that in MSD group [42.9%(6/14) vs 10.5%(2/19), P=0.047]. The incidence of grade Ⅱ-Ⅳ acute GVHD and chronic GVHD in URD were higher than those in MSD group [21.4%(3/14) vs 5.3%(1/19), P=0.288; 35.7%(5/14) vs 5.3%(1/19), P=0.062, respectively], yet without significant difference between two groups. Other transplant-related complications including pulmonary complications, hemorrhagic cystitis, incidence of EBV and CMV reactivation and venous occlusive disease were comparable with two regimens. Estimated 5-years overall survival (OS) rate and disease free survival (DFS) rate were not statistically significant between URD group and MSD group [(84.4±6.6)% vs (89.4±7.1)%, (82.5±5.4)% vs (82.1±4.3)%; P=0.766, P=0.884, respectively]. Conclusions: By multivariate analysis, the outcome of URD allo-HSCT in SAA children and adolescent is similar to MSD allo-HSCT. It could be an alternative option as the first-line treatment for SAA children and adolescents without HLA matched sibling donors.

FBX8 is a metastasis suppressor downstream of miR-223 and targeting mTOR for degradation in colorectal carcinoma

F-box proteins are critical components of the SKP1-CUL1-F-box (SCF) E3 ubiquitin ligases and involved in the ubiquitin-dependent proteolytic pathway. Dysregulation of F-box protein-mediated proteolysis often leads to human malignancies. F-box only protein 8 (FBX8), a novel component of F-box proteins, is down-regulated in several tumors and closely correlates with tumor progression. However, little is known about its function, regulatory mechanisms and substrates in the progression of colorectal carcinoma (CRC). Combining microRNA (miRNA) assay, functional characterization, mechanistic studies with clinical validation, we identify FBX8 as a CRC metastasis suppressor downstream of miR-223, a metastasis promoting miRNA that is transcriptionally regulated by Myocyte enhancer factor (MEF2A). mTOR is a substrate of FBX8 for ubiquitin-mediated degradation and is required for FBX8 induced cell proliferation and invasion in CRC cells. FBX8 is down-regulated in human CRC tissues and correlates with MEF2A, miR-223 and mTOR expression levels. Notably, low FBX8 expression status in CRC tissues was a significant prognostic factor for poor overall survival of patients. These findings illustrate FBX8 as a metastasis suppressor that functions through mTOR signaling pathway and has significant prognostic power.

The FOXD3/miR-214/MED19 axis suppresses tumour growth and metastasis in human colorectal cancer

Background:

MiR-214 is aberrantly regulated in several tumours, but its underlying mechanisms in colorectal cancer (CRC) metastasis remain largely unknown. This study aimed to demonstrate the function and potential mechanism of miR-214 in regulating invasion and metastasis of CRC.

Methods:

The transcription factor and targets of miR-214 were predicted by bioinformatics and validated using ChIP and dual-luciferase reporter assay. DNA methylation status was explored using bisulphite sequencing PCR. The in vitro and in vivo function of miR-214 in CRC was evaluated using MTT, plate colony formation, Matrigel invasion and animal models. Real-time PCR or western blotting was performed to detect FOXD3, miR-214 and MED19 expressions in CRC cells and clinical specimens.

Results:

MiR-214 was downregulated in CRC and was significantly correlated with lymphatic metastasis. Downregulation of miR-214 might due to promoter hypermethylation in CRC. FOXD3 was validated as a transcription factor of miR-214 by ChIP assay. Dual-luciferase assay identified MED19 as a target of miR-214 in CRC. In vitro and in vivo experiments showed that miR-214 mediated the inhibiting effect of FOXD3 on proliferation, invasion and metastasis by targeting MED19. Spearman's correlation analysis showed a positive correlation between FOXD3 and miR-214, and negative correlations between FOXD3 and MED19, miR-214 and MED19 in CRC cells and clinical specimens.

Conclusions:

FOXD3/miR-214/MED19 axis is important for the regulation of growth, invasion and metastasis of CRC. Targeting the miR-214-mediated axis might be helpful for the treatment of CRC.

[Influence of trabecular microstructure modeling on finite element analysis of dental implant]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the influence of trabecular microstructure modeling on the biomechanical distribution of implant-bone interface with a three-dimensional finite element mandible model of trabecular structure.

METHODS

Dental implants were embeded in the mandibles of a beagle dog. After three months of the implant installation, the mandibles with dental implants were harvested and scaned by micro-CT and cone-beam CT. Two three-dimensional finite element mandible models, trabecular microstructure(precise model) and macrostructure(simplified model), were built. The values of stress and strain of implant-bone interface were calculated using the software of Ansys 14.0.

RESULTS

Compared with the simplified model, the precise models' average values of the implant bone interface stress increased obviously and its maximum values did not change greatly. The maximum values of quivalent stress of the precise models were 80% and 110% of the simplified model and the average values were 170% and 290% of simplified model. The maximum and average values of equivalent strain of precise models were obviously decreased, and the maximum values of the equivalent effect strain were 17% and 26% of simplified model and the average ones were 21% and 16% of simplified model respectively. Stress and strain concentrations at implant-bone interface were obvious in the simplified model. However, the distributions of stress and strain were uniform in the precise model.

CONCLUSIONS

The precise model has significant effect on the distribution of stress and strain at implant-bone interface.

Genetic diversity in fragmented populations of Populus talassica inferred from microsatellites: implications for conservation

Populus talassica Kom. is an ecologically important species endemic to central Asia. In China, its main distribution is restricted to the Ili region in the Xinjiang Autonomous Region. An understanding of genetic diversity and population structure is crucial for the development of a feasible conservation strategy. Twenty-six high-level simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were screened and used to genotype 220 individuals from three native populations. A high level of genetic diversity and low population differentiation were revealed. We identified 163 alleles, with a mean of 6.269 alleles per locus. The observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.472 to 0.485 (with a mean of 0.477), and from 0.548 to 0.591 (mean 0.569), respectively. Analysis of molecular variance revealed 93% variation within populations and 7% among populations. A model-based population structure analysis divided P. talassica into two groups (optimal K = 2). These genetic data provide crucial insight for conservation management.

Clinical Evaluation of Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation After Angioplasty for Diabetic Foot

Aims: The multilineage differentiation potential of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUCMSCs) holds therapeutic promise for non-healing ulcers and tissue regeneration. The present study evaluated the effects of HUCMSC transplantation after angioplasty for treatment of diabetic foot. Methods: Included in the study were 53 patients (72 limbs) with severe symptoms of Fontaine II-IV diabetic foot accompanied by varying degrees of lower extremity arterial disease. The patients were randomly apportioned to a control group (25 patients; 38 limbs) or an experimental group (28 patients; 34 limbs). Patients of both groups received interventional treatment with angioplasty; those in the experimental group also received HUCMSCs by endovascular infusion and injection around the foot ulcer. Results: Within the 3-month follow-up, relative to patients in the control group, those in the experimental group experienced significantly greater and more stable improvements in skin temperature, ankle-brachial pressure index, transcutaneous oxygen tension, and claudication distance. Notably, 3 months after treatment a significant increase in neovessels, accompanied by complete or gradual ulcer healing, was shown in the experimental group. In addition, no serious complications or adverse reactions were associated with the treatment. Conclusion: Therefore, our results indicate that HUCMSC transplantation after angioplasty is a safe and effective clinical therapy for severe diabetic foot.

Latitudinal distributions of activities in atmospheric aerosols, deposition fluxes, and soil inventories of ⁷Be in the East Asian monsoon zone

Activities of atmospheric aerosols, bulk deposition fluxes, and undisturbed soil inventories of (7)Be were investigated in China's East Asian monsoon zone at various latitudes ranging from 23.8°N to 43.5°N. The annual latitudinal distributions of (7)Be concentrations in aerosols follow a distribution pattern which looks similar to a normal distribution with the maxima occurring in the mid-latitude region. Simultaneous measurements of (7)Be at various latitudes suggest that atmospheric circulation may play an important role in the latitudinal distributions of (7)Be in surface air. Latitude and wet precipitation are the main factors controlling the bulk (7)Be depositional fluxes. Significant seasonal variations in (7)Be depositional fluxes in Beijing, a mid-latitude city, were observed with the highest flux in summer and the lowest in winter, whereas less seasonality were found in the high- and the low-latitude cities. The highest (7)Be inventory in undisturbed soils in summer also occurred at a mid-latitudinal area in the East Asian monsoon zone. Precipitation is the main factor controlling the (7)Be soil inventory in Qingdao with the highest values occurring in autumn followed by summer.

Microvascular remodeling of nasal mucosa in allergic rhinitis induced by an allergen in Sprague-Dawley rats

This study aimed to observe microvascular changes in the nasal mucosa of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats with allergic rhinitis (AR) after persistent exposure to an allergen with fluticasone propionate (FP) treatment. Ninety healthy SD rats were randomly distributed into the control group (A, N = 30), the group with continued exposure to an allergen (B, N = 30), and FP treatment group (C, N = 30). The animals of the persistence group were subjected to persistent exposure to an allergen after 7 weeks of modeling of ovalbumin (OVA) provocation in the nasal mucosa for 16 weeks. At the 8th, 12th, and 16th week after OVA provocation, each group was euthanized at each time point: the FP treatment after OVA provocation, and animals of the control group were not stimulated with OVA and were sacrificed at the same time point. The nasal mucosa of 5 animals from each group was analyzed for the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and another 5 animals were used to make micro vascular corrosion casts for a scanning electron microscope. The results demonstrate that FP has a strong inhibitory effect on angiogenesis in AR. Inhalation of FP had an antiangiogenic effect through inhibition of VEGF expression but does not completely reverse the remodeling of the nasal mucosa in the short term nor does it have complete control over the expression of VEGF mRNA.

Comparison of 16S rRNA gene PCR and blood culture for diagnosis of neonatal sepsis

Septicemia is a common cause of morbidity and mortality among newborns in the developing world. However, accurate clinical diagnosis of neonatal sepsis is often difficult because symptoms and signs are often nonspecific. Blood culture has been the gold standard for confirmation of the diagnosis. However, the sensitivity is low and results are usually not promptly obtained. Therefore, the diagnosis of sepsis is often based on clinical signs in association with laboratory tests such as platelets count, immature/total neutrophils ratio (I/T), and a rise in C-reactive protein (CRP). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods for the detection of neonatal sepsis represent new diagnostic tools for the early identification of pathogens.

METHODS

During a 4-month prospective study, 16S rRNA PCR was compared with conventional blood culture for the diagnosis of neonatal bacterial sepsis. In addition, the relationship between known risk factors, clinical signs, laboratory parameters, and the diagnosis of sepsis was considered.

RESULTS

Sepsis was suspected in 706 infants from the intensive neonatal care unit. They all were included in the study. The number of positive cultures and positive PCR results were 95 (13.5%) and 123 (17.4%), respectively. Compared with blood culture, the diagnosis of bacterial sepsis by PCR revealed a 100.0% sensitivity, 95.4% specificity, 77.2% positive predictive value, and 100.0% negative predictive value. In this study, Apgar scores at 5 min, weight, icterus, irritability, feeding difficulties, gestational age (GA), premature rupture of membrane (PRM), platelets count, I/T, and a marked rise in CRP were important in establishing the diagnosis of sepsis in the newborn. In addition, weight, GA, PRM, irritability, duration of antibiotic usage, mortality rate, and number of purulent meningitis cases were significantly different between early-onset sepsis and late-onset sepsis.

CONCLUSION

16S rRNA PCR increased the sensitivity in detecting bacterial DNA in newborns with signs of sepsis, allowed a rapid detection of the pathogens, and led to shorter antibiotic courses. However, uncertainty about the bacterial cause of sepsis was not reduced by this method. 16S rRNA PCR needs to be further developed and improved. Blood culture is currently irreplaceable, since pure isolates are essential for antimicrobial drug susceptibility testing.

A novel mutation of the DSRAD gene in a Chinese family with dyschromatosis symmetrica hereditaria

Dyschromatosis symmetrica hereditaria (DSH) is an autosomal dominant cutaneous disorder, characterized by a mixture of hyperpigmented and hypopigmented macules mostly on the dorsal portions of the extremities. Pathogenic mutations have been identified in the double-stranded RNA-specific adenosine deaminase (DSRAD) gene. We studied a Chinese family that included four affected individuals with DSH phenotypes. PCR and direct sequencing were carried out to detect the entire coding region and exon-intron boundaries of the DSRAD gene. A novel nucleotide c.3002G>T missense mutation in the exon 11 of the DSRAD gene was detected in the proband and his father. This information expands the database on DSRAD gene mutations associated with DSH.

Effect of oxygen content on the transport properties of LaTiO(3+β/2) thin films

The structural and transport properties of LaTiO(3+β/2) epitaxial thin films, grown at different oxygen pressures ranging from 6.6 × 10(-4) to 5 Pa, have been investigated. X-ray diffraction peaks of the films shift to lower angles with increasing oxygen pressure, indicative of a variation of the corresponding lattice spacing. All the films show T(2) dependence of resistivity over a large temperature range of ∼200 K, suggesting a band-filling-induced metallic Fermi-liquid behaviour. Upturns in resistivity have been revealed at low temperatures, which could be ascribed to the Anderson-localization effect caused by the cation vacancies. Furthermore, for the thin films grown at high oxygen pressures of 0.5 and 5 Pa, the dependence of resistivity on temperature shows a maximum at high temperatures. The maximum seems to support the argument that transition between t-orbital ordering and disordering plays an important role in dominating transport properties at high temperatures. Carrier density deduced from Hall coefficient increases with the decrease of oxygen content, and shows strong temperature dependence. From the experimental data, it can be asserted that in the LaTiO(3+β/2) thin films, besides the band filling effect, localization or disorder caused by La and Ti vacancy effects controls the unique transport properties.

The survival and value of liver transplantation for liver carcinoma: a single-center experience

Liver transplantation for liver carcinoma with cirrhosis is a treatment still in dispute. The objectives were to summarize the survival and cost of 50 liver transplant cases performed for liver carcinoma over nearly 3 years.

METHODS

We performed 138 liver transplants from January 1999 to February 2002. There were 50 cases (36.2%) of liver carcinoma with HBV cirrhosis, which were divided into three stages based on the tumor pathology: Stage 1 cases showed a single mass (< or = 5 cm), 4 cases; Stage 2, a single mass > 5 cm or intrahepatic multiple masses without PV cancer embolus, 32 cases; and Stage 3: tumor invasion of the PV or perihepatic lymph nodes or organs, 14 cases. All patients received three to six courses of chemotherapy postoperatively.

RESULTS

All four cases of stage 1 survived > 1 year; one of them is at 3 years with good liver function and tumor free. The mean half-year medical cost was $27.100 +/- 108 in stage 1. The half-year survival and medical costs were 62.5% and $31,500 +/- 260 in stage 2 and 15.0% and $35,500 +/- 134 in stage 3.

CONCLUSION

Liver transplantation is an effective treatment for early-stage liver carcinoma, that achieves good medical and economic results, but should be limited to advanced liver cancer.

Prolonged heart allograft survival resulted from donor-specific T-cell sequestering and removal by selective splenectomy in mice

INTRODUCTION

Selective splenectomy when donor antigen-specific activated T cells are sequestered in the recipient spleen may prolong allograft survival because of removal of all of these T cells.

OBJECTIVES

We investigated the effect on cardiac allograft survival in mice by means of removal of activated specific T cells by splenectomy.

METHODS

Donor (Balb/c) spleen cells were injected into primed allogeneic recipients (C57BL/6). Selective recipient splenectomy and donor-type cervical heart grafting in Balb/c to C57BL/6 from mice were examined at 0, 24, 48, and 72 hours after donor spleen cell infusion.

RESULTS

Control C57BL/6 mice rejected Balb/c heart grafts at 6.86 +/- 0.19 days. Delayed heart grafting plus splenectomy at 24 or 48 hours after donor-type spleen cell infusion significantly prolonged heart allograft survival (24 hours: 15.86 +/- 3.44 days, P < .001; 48 hours: 21.71 +/- 5.22 days, P < .001, respectively). However, 72-hour delayed heart grafting plus splenectomy failed to prevent acute rejection (72 hours: 9.57 +/- 2.51 days, P > .01). Immunohistochemistry showed, at 24 to 48 hours after donor antigen infusion, the recipient spleens characterized by an obvious increase in CD4+ CD8+ T cells in periateriolar lymphoid sheaths, marginal zones, and red pulp compared with the 72-hour group.

CONCLUSIONS

Transient accumulation of donor-specific activated T cells in the spleen of recipients provide an opportunity to remove all of these T cells by a surgical procedure. As the largest immune organ the spleen is the main place where T cells are activated and regenerated. At 24 or 48 hours when donor-specific T cells were sequestered in the spleen after donor antigen stimulation, selective recipient splenectomy was able to remove the T cells and prolong was allograft survival. Refinement of this protocol may eventually warrant clinical application.

Study of a mathematical model of metal ion complexes in solvent sublation

Separation of metal ion complex, [(C(12)H(8)N(2))(3)Fe(2+)], with surfactant sodium dodecylphrate (DLS) complex from aqueous phase was carried out by solvent sublation, which obeys first-order kinetics. On the base of the complete transport mechanisms, the Langmuir adsorption, and the ion complex equilibrium in the aqueous phase, a mathematical model for the [(C(12)H(8)N(2))(3)Fe(2+)]-surfactant ion complex is obtained with the aid of the Mathematic 4.0 program, 4th Runge-Kutta method, and the Matlab programs. The effects of many parameters, such as K(a), K(l), K(ow), d(i), V(o), V(w), and Q(a), on solvent sublation are investigated. Furthermore, the simulation showed that the model is substantiated for experiments on the solvent sublation of the complex.

Magnetic resonance studies of brain function and neurochemistry

In the short time since its introduction, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has rapidly evolved to become an indispensable tool for clinical diagnosis and biomedical research. Recently, this methodology has been successfully used for the acquisition of functional, physiological, and biochemical information in intact systems, particularly in the human body. The ability to map areas of altered neuronal activity in the brain, often referred to as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), is probably one of the most significant recent achievements that rely on this methodology. This development has permitted the examination of functional specialization in human and animal brains with unprecedented spatial resolution, as demonstrated by mapping at the level of orientation and ocular dominance columns in the visual cortex. These functional imaging studies are complemented by the ability to study neurochemistry using magnetic resonance spectroscopy, allowing the determination of metabolic processes that support neurotransmission and neurotransmission rates themselves.