[Clinicopathological characteristics and immune microenvironment of breast squamous cell carcinoma]

Objective: To investigate the clinicopathological characteristics of breast squamous cell carcinoma and to analyze the relationship between its immune microenvironment tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and prognosis. Methods: Forty-four cases of primary squamous cell carcinoma of the breast diagnosed and treated in the First Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China from January 2006 to July 2022 were selected. Their clinicopathological characteristics were analyzed. The cell composition of TILs was evaluated using immunohistochemistry (Mainly markers of B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes and plasma cells). The relationship between TILs and prognosis was also analyzed. Results: The 44 patients of breast squamous cell carcinoma were all female and all were invasive carcinoma. Eight cases (8/44, 18.2%) were squamous cell carcinoma, while 36 cases (36/44, 81.8%) were mixed squamous cell carcinoma. The mixed components included non-specific carcinoma and spindle cell metaplastic carcinoma (17 cases each). One case contained ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast and 1 case contained tubular carcinoma. The proportion of squamous cell carcinoma was 10% to 90%. The cases with pure squamous cell carcinoma often had a large cystic cavity, which was lined by atypical squamous epithelium, while infiltrating squamous cell carcinoma nests were seen in the breast tissue around the cystic cavity. Immunohistochemical staining showed that p63 and CK5/6 were expressed in the squamous cell carcinoma component, but ER, PR and HER2 were not, except for one case of HER2 1+. The positive rates of TRPS1 and PDL-1 were 76% and less than 1%, respectively. Fifteen cases were in the high TILs group (TILs≥30%) and 29 cases were in the low TILs group (TILs<30%). Twenty-three patients were followed up for 5 to 118 months. Among them, 12 died within 3 years and 9 were alive at the end of the follow up. There was no significant difference in TNM stage, TILs and prognosis between simple squamous cell carcinoma and mixed squamous cell carcinoma. Conclusions: Breast squamous cell carcinoma can be divided into simple squamous cell carcinoma and mixed squamous cell carcinoma. There are differences in gross findings and histology between the simple and mixed squamous cell carcinoma of the breast. Sufficient samples should be taken to avoid missing the diagnosis of a minor squamous component. The prognosis of patients with high TILs is significantly better than that of patients with low TILs. The expression rate of TRPS1 in primary squamous cell carcinoma of breast is high and helpful to the differential diagnosis from metastatic squamous cell carcinoma.

Interplay of Zeb2a, Id2a and Batf3 regulates microglia and dendritic cell development in the zebrafish brain

In vertebrates, the central nervous system (CNS) harbours various immune cells, including parenchymal microglia, perivascular macrophages and dendritic cells, which act in coordination to establish an immune network to regulate neurogenesis and neural function, and to maintain the homeostasis of the CNS. Recent single cell transcriptomic profiling has revealed that the adult zebrafish CNS contains microglia, plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) and two conventional dendritic cells (cDCs), ccl35+ cDCs and cnn3a+cDCs. However, how these distinct myeloid cells are established in the adult zebrafish CNS remains incompletely defined. Here, we show that the Inhibitor of DNA binding 2a (Id2a) is essential for the development of pDCs and cDCs but is dispensable for the formation of microglia, whereas the Basic leucine zipper transcription factor ATF-like 3 (Batf3) acts downstream of id2a and is required exclusively for the formation of the cnn3a+ cDC subset. In contrast, the Zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 2a (Zeb2a) promotes the expansion of microglia and inhibits the DC specification, possibly through repressing id2a expression. Our study unravels the genetic networks that govern the development of microglia and brain-associated DCs in the zebrafish CNS.

[Clinicopathological and molecular genetic characteristics of ELOC mutated renal cell carcinoma]

Objective: To investigate the clinicopathological features, molecular genetic features, differential diagnosis and prognosis of ELOC mutated renal cell carcinoma. Methods: From January 2015 to June 2022, 11 cases of renal cell carcinoma with clear-cell morphology, expression of CAⅨ and CK7 and no 3p deletion were collected. Two cases of ELOC mutant renal cell carcinoma were diagnosed using whole exome sequencing (WES). The clinical features, morphology, immunophenotype, FISH and WES results were analyzed. The relevant literature was reviewed. Results: The two patients were both male, aged 29 and 51 years, respectively. They were both found to have a renal mass by physical examination. The maximum diameters of the tumors were 3.5 cm and 2.0 cm, respectively. At the low magnification, the tumors were well-defined. The tumor cells showed a pushing border and were separated by thick fibrous bands, forming nodules. The tumor cells were arranged in a variety of patterns, including tubular, papillary, solid nest or alveolar. At high magnification, the tumor cells were large, with well-defined cell borders and clear cytoplasm or fine eosinophilic granules. CAⅨ was diffusely box-like positive in both cases. Case 1 was partially and moderately positive for CK7, strongly positive for CD10, diffusely and moderately positive for P504S, and weakly positive for 34βE12. In case 2, CK7 and CD10 were both partially, moderately positive and P504s were diffusely positive, but 34βE12 was negative. FISH results showed that both cases had no 3p deletion. ELOC c.235T>A (p.Y79N) mutation was identified using WES in case 1, while ELOC c.236_237inv (p.Y79C) mutation was identified in case 2. Conclusions: As a new clinical entity, ELOC mutated renal cell carcinoma may be underdiagnosed due to its overlap with clear cell renal cell carcinoma in morphology and immunophenotype. The diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma with ELOC mutation should be confirmed by morphology, immunohistochemistry, FISH and gene mutation detection. However, more additional cases are needed to explain its biological behavior and prognosis.

CT-based radiomics for prediction of pulmonary haemorrhage after percutaneous CT-guided transthoracic lung biopsy of pulmonary nodules

AIM

To evaluate the feasibility of intranodular and perinodular computed tomography (CT) radiomics features for predicting the occurrence of pulmonary haemorrhage after percutaneous CT-guided transthoracic lung biopsy (PCTLB) in pulmonary nodules.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The data for 332 patients with pulmonary nodules who underwent PCTLB were reviewed retrospectively. Pulmonary haemorrhage after PCTLB was evaluated using CT (144 cases occurred). Radiomics features based on gross nodular (GNV) and perinodular volumes (PNV) were extracted from pre-biopsy CT images and features selection using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression, and three radiomics scores (rad-scores) were built. Rad-scores, clinical, and clinical-radiomic models were developed and evaluated to predict the occurrence of pulmonary haemorrhage.

RESULTS

Five, five, and six significant features were selected for prediction of pulmonary haemorrhage based on GNV, PNV, and GNV + PNV, respectively. Lesion depth was the only clinical characteristics related to pulmonary haemorrhage. Lesion depth and rad-score based on GNV, PNV, and GNV + PNV for predicting the pulmonary haemorrhage achieved areas under the curves (AUCs) of 0.656, 0.645, 0.651, and 0.635 in the validation group, respectively. Three clinical-radiomic models improved the AUCs to 0.743, 0.723, and 0.748. The performance of rad-score_GNV + PNV combined with lesion depth outperformed the clinical model (p=0.024) and the radiomics signature (p=0.038). In addition, the radiomics signatures were significantly associated with higher-grade pulmonary haemorrhage (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Radiomics features from intranodular and perinodular regions of pulmonary nodules have good predictive ability for pulmonary haemorrhage after PCTLB, which may provide additional predictive value for clinical practice.

Proton Based Stereotactic Radiotherapy for Skull Base Patients: Dosimetric Comparison to 4 Modern Radiation Treatment Modalities

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Re-irradiation with ablative doses to a smaller target volume and strict critical structure constraint is a challenge for modern radiation planning and delivery systems. Several advanced radiation treatment techniques can be used for fractionated stereotactic ablative radiosurgery (FSRS) in select patients with unresectable recurrent head and neck tumors. In this study, in order to better understand the dosimetry advantage of each technique, we compare the stereotactic treatment plans of our new small spot size Hitachi proton treatment unit to those of CyberKnife stereotactic radiosurgery (CK), Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GK), volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT), and MR Linac radiotherapy (MRL).

MATERIALS/METHODS

Ten FSRS skull base patients treated at our institution using VMAT (n = 5) or GK (n = 5) techniques. Intensity-modulated proton therapy (IMPT) plans were created in Raystation using Monte Carlo dose calculation algorithm. VMAT, CK, GK and MRL plans were generated in RayStation, Accuray Precision, Leksell Gamma Plan, and Monaco treatment planning systems, separately. Planning goals were to achieve the best target coverage of prescribed dose without compromising the critical organs at risk dose volume constraints of the clinical treatment plans. Plans were compared based on percent CTV coverage, Paddick conformity index (PCI), gradient index (GI, V50/V100), dose homogeneity index (HI, (D2-D98)/D50), low dose bath volume (LDBV, ratio of total volume irradiated between 20% and 50% prescription dose and the target volume), beam-on-time (BOT), and mean/maximum doses to brainstems.

RESULTS

The median target volume was 15.5 cm3 (range 1.0 - 36.23 cm3). The prescription was 45 Gy in 5 fractions for VMAT patients, and 21 - 27 Gy in 3 fractions for GK patients. The comparison of the treatment plans of these 5 delivery modalities was shown in table. All techniques achieved comparable CTV coverage. GI was superior for GK plans and outstanding in CK and IMPT plans. IMPT plans were also outstanding in regard to BOT and PCI. Significantly improved HI, LDBV and brainstem mean doses were achieved in IMPT plans. For adjacent brainstem and other OARs, maximum doses were comparable among all techniques.

CONCLUSION

In these five advanced radiation therapy modalities, proton therapy SBRT showed dosimetric advantage over other modalities to spare nearby OARs without sacrifice of target coverage. Further studies are needed to utilize this clinical benefit and investigate plan robustness.

Fixed-Field IMRT for Cervix Carcinoma Patients on an MR-LINAC Platform: Dosimetric Feasibility and Challenges

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

To investigate the impact of MR-LINAC performance characteristics and inverse planning implementation on the feasibility of fixed-field IMRT for cervix carcinoma patients by benchmarking MR-LINAC plans against clinically used VMAT plans in a single institution study and multi-institutional treatment planning challenge.

MATERIALS/METHODS

For 10 cervix cancer patients who had previously received Linac-based VMAT, new treatment plans were optimized for MR-LINAC IMRT using 6X FFF fixed fields with maximum available field size of 27.4 x 24.1 cm2. Dose optimization was performed on the clinically used planning CT and structure set. Prescribed dose was 48.6 Gy in 27 fractions for all patients with 6 patients receiving an additional integrated boost for a total of 58.05 Gy to involved nodes. Constraints were based on our institutional protocol as per Table 1. IMRT delivery time was limited to 20 min. Original clinically used VMAT plans were generated on Eclipse (Varian Medical System) using 3 to 4 arcs. For the multi-institutional planning challenge, the data set from a single patient was anonymized and shared to participants. Participants used a single MR-based Linac planning platform to generate a plan based on our institutional constraints, with maximum treatment time limited to 20 min. For all analyses, a paired samples t-test was used to compare the significance defined at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

For MR-LINAC plans, the mean number of fields used was 23, mean number of segments 229, and the average estimated treatment delivery time was 17.3 minutes. MR-LINAC plans showed a significantly higher heterogeneity and dose to organs at risk compared to VMAT plans (Table 1). For the planning challenge, a total of 30 participants registered interest. Of this, seven plans were submitted to the challenge. On average, participants generated a plan that would be acceptable based on our institutional constraints (Table 1). However, the volumetric dose to bowel and pelvic bones were higher on MR-LINAC plans compared to the reference VMAT plan.

CONCLUSION

MR-LINAC fixed-field IMRT for cervix cancer patients is feasible but system constraints and optimization implementation result in greater dose heterogeneity and worse organ-at-risk sparing compared to Linac based VMAT. Further research is needed to determine if potential reduction of treatment margins, allowed by better MRI soft-tissue visualization, will result in MR-LINAC IMRT superior to Linac VMAT.

Sulindac selectively induces autophagic apoptosis of GABAergic neurons and alters motor behaviour in zebrafish

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs compose one of the most widely used classes of medications, but the risks for early development remain controversial, especially in the nervous system. Here, we utilized zebrafish larvae to assess the potentially toxic effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and found that sulindac can selectively induce apoptosis of GABAergic neurons in the brains of zebrafish larvae brains. Zebrafish larvae exhibit hyperactive behaviour after sulindac exposure. We also found that akt1 is selectively expressed in GABAergic neurons and that SC97 (an Akt1 activator) and exogenous akt1 mRNA can reverse the apoptosis caused by sulindac. Further studies showed that sulindac binds to retinoid X receptor alpha (RXRα) and induces autophagy in GABAergic neurons, leading to activation of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. Finally, we verified that sulindac can lead to hyperactivity and selectively induce GABAergic neuron apoptosis in mice. These findings suggest that excessive use of sulindac may lead to early neurodevelopmental toxicity and increase the risk of hyperactivity, which could be associated with damage to GABAergic neurons.

Safety of high-carbohydrate fluid diet 2 h versus overnight fasting before non-emergency endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: A single-blind, multicenter, randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Although overnight fasting is recommended prior to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), the benefits and safety of high-carbohydrate fluid diet (CFD) intake 2 h before ERCP remain unclear. This study aimed to analyze whether high-CFD intake 2 h before ERCP can be safe and accelerate patients' recovery.

METHODS

This prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled trial involved 15 tertiary ERCP centers. A total of 1330 patients were randomized into CFD group (n = 665) and fasting group (n = 665). The CFD group received 400 mL of maltodextrin orally 2 h before ERCP, while the control group abstained from food/water overnight (>6 h) before ERCP. All ERCP procedures were performed using deep sedation with intravenous propofol. The investigators were blinded but not the patients. The primary outcomes included postoperative fatigue and abdominal pain score, and the secondary outcomes included complications and changes in metabolic indicators. The outcomes were analyzed according to a modified intention-to-treat principle.

RESULTS

The post-ERCP fatigue scores were significantly lower at 4 h (4.1 ± 2.6 vs. 4.8 ± 2.8, t = 4.23, P <0.001) and 20 h (2.4 ± 2.1 vs. 3.4 ± 2.4, t = 7.94, P <0.001) in the CFD group, with least-squares mean differences of 0.48 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.26-0.71, P <0.001) and 0.76 (95% CI: 0.57-0.95, P <0.001), respectively. The 4-h pain scores (2.1 ± 1.7 vs. 2.2 ± 1.7, t = 2.60, P = 0.009, with a least-squares mean difference of 0.21 [95% CI: 0.05-0.37]) and positive urine ketone levels (7.7% [39/509] vs. 15.4% [82/533], χ2 = 15.13, P <0.001) were lower in the CFD group. The CFD group had significantly less cholangitis (2.1% [13/634] vs. 4.0% [26/658], χ2 = 3.99, P = 0.046) but not pancreatitis (5.5% [35/634] vs. 6.5% [43/658], χ2 = 0.59, P = 0.444). Subgroup analysis revealed that CFD reduced the incidence of complications in patients with native papilla (odds ratio [OR]: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.39-0.95, P = 0.028) in the multivariable models.

CONCLUSION

Ingesting 400 mL of CFD 2 h before ERCP is safe, with a reduction in post-ERCP fatigue, abdominal pain, and cholangitis during recovery.

TRAIL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, No. NCT03075280.

Cross-organ single-cell transcriptome profiling reveals macrophage and dendritic cell heterogeneity in zebrafish

Tissue-resident macrophages (TRMs) and dendritic cells (DCs) are highly heterogeneous and essential for immunity, tissue regeneration, and homeostasis maintenance. Here, we comprehensively profile the heterogeneity of TRMs and DCs across adult zebrafish organs via single-cell RNA sequencing. We identify two macrophage subsets: pro-inflammatory macrophages with potent phagocytosis signatures and pro-remodeling macrophages with tissue regeneration signatures in barrier tissues, liver, and heart. In parallel, one conventional dendritic cell (cDC) population with prominent antigen presentation capacity and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) featured by anti-virus properties are also observed in these organs. Remarkably, in addition to a single macrophage/microglia population with potent phagocytosis capacity, a pDC population and two distinct cDC populations are identified in the brain. Finally, we generate specific reporter lines for in vivo tracking of macrophage and DC subsets. Our study depicts the landscape of TRMs and DCs and creates valuable tools for in-depth study of these cells in zebrafish.

[Prediction of 1p/19q codeletion status in diffuse lower-grade glioma using multimodal MRI radiomics]

OBJECTIVE

To develop a noninvasive method for prediction of 1p/19q codeletion in diffuse lower-grade glioma (DLGG) based on multimodal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) radiomics.

METHODS

We collected MRI data from 104 patients with pathologically confirmed DLGG between October, 2015 and September, 2022. A total of 535 radiomics features were extracted from T₂WI, T₁WI, FLAIR, CE-T₁WI and DWI, including 70 morphological features, 90 first order features, and 375 texture features. We constructed logistic regression (LR), logistic regression least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LRlasso), support vector machine (SVM) and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) radiomics models and compared their predictive performance after 10-fold cross validation. The MRI images were reviewed by two radiologists independently for predicting the 1p/19q status. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to evaluate classification performance of the radiomics models and the radiologists.

RESULTS

The 4 radiomics models (LR, LRlasso, SVM and LDA) achieved similar area under the curve (AUC) in the validation dataset (0.833, 0.819, 0.824 and 0.819, respectively; P>0.1), and their predictive performance was all superior to that of resident physicians of radiology (AUC=0.645, P=0.011, 0.022, 0.016, 0.030, respectively) and similar to that of attending physicians of radiology (AUC=0.838, P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

Multiparametric MRI radiomics models show good performance for noninvasive prediction of 1p/19q codeletion status in patients with in diffuse lower-grade glioma.

Cell competition for neuron-derived trophic factor controls the turnover and lifespan of microglia

Microglia are brain-resident macrophages capable of long-term maintenance through self-renewal. Yet the mechanism governing the turnover and lifespan of microglia remains unknown. In zebrafish, microglia arise from two sources, rostral blood island (RBI) and aorta-gonad-mesonephros (AGM). The RBI-derived microglia are born early but have a short lifespan and diminish in adulthood, while the AGM-derived microglia emerge later and are capable of long-term maintenance in adulthood. Here, we show that the attenuation of RBI microglia is due to their less competitiveness for neuron-derived interleukin-34 (Il34) caused by age-dependent decline of colony-stimulating factor-1 receptor a (csf1ra). Alterations of Il34/Csf1ra levels and removal of AGM microglia revamp the proportion and lifespan of RBI microglia. The csf1ra/CSF1R expression in zebrafish AGM-derived microglia and murine adult microglia also undergo age-dependent decline, leading to the elimination of aged microglia. Our study reveals cell competition as a general mechanism controlling the turnover and lifespan of microglia.

Metaphocytes are IL-22BP-producing cells regulated by ETS transcription factor Spic and essential for zebrafish barrier immunity

Metaphocytes are tissue-resident macrophage (TRM)/dendritic cell (DC)-like cells of non-hematopoietic origin in zebrafish barrier tissues. One remarkable property of metaphocytes is their ability to capture soluble antigens from the external environment via transepithelial protrusions, a unique function manifested by specialized subpopulations of the TRMs/DCs in mammal barrier tissues. Yet, how metaphocytes acquire myeloid-like cell properties from non-hematopoietic precursors and how they regulate barrier immunity remains unknown. Here, we show that metaphocytes are in situ generated from local progenitors guided by the ETS transcription factor Spic, the deficiency of which results in the absence of metaphocytes. We further document that metaphocytes are the major IL-22BP-producing cells, and the depletion of metaphocytes causes dysregulated barrier immunity that resembles the phenotype of IL-22BP-deficient mice. These findings reveal the ontogeny, development, and function of metaphocytes in zebrafish, which facilitates our understanding of the nature and function of the mammalian TRM/DC counterparts.

Activation cross sections for reactions induced by 14 MeV neutrons on natural titanium

Cross sections for the neutrons around 14 MeV interaction with natural titanium were precisely measured by neutron activation and off-line measurement technique. The fast neutrons were produced by ³H(d,n)⁴He reaction and the neutron energy was obtained by using the cross section ratio method of ⁹⁰Zr(n,2n)⁸⁹Zr to ⁹³Nb(n,2n)^92mNb reactions. Experimental cross sections have been acquired for ^natTi(n,x)⁴⁶Sc, ^natTi(n,x)⁴⁷Sc, ⁵⁰Ti(n,x)⁴⁷Ca and ⁴⁸Ti(n,x)⁴⁸Sc reactions. The measured cross section data are compared with the experimental data available in the previous literature and evaluated nuclear data from the ENDF/B-VIII.0, JEFF-3.3, JENDL-5, BROND-3.1, CENDL-3.2 and FENDL-3.2b libraries. Furthermore, excitation functions for these reactions were calculated by using the theoretical model based on Talys-1.96 code with default and adjusted parameters. Within experimental error, evaluated nuclear data are mostly consistent with experimental data. The excitation function with adjusted parameters can roughly reproduce the experimental data.

Identification of resection plane for anatomical liver resection using ultrasonography-guided needle insertion

Purposes

To set up an easy-handled and precise delineation of resection plane for hepatic anatomical resection (AR).

Methods

Cases of AR using ultrasonography-guided needle insertion to trace the target hepatic vein for delineation of resection planes [new technique (NT) group, n = 22] were retrospectively compared with those without implementation of this surgical technique [traditional technique (TT) group, n = 29] in terms of perioperative courses and surgical outcomes.

Results

The target hepatic vein was successfully exposed in all patients of the NT group, compared with a success rate of 79.3% in the TT group (P < 0.05). The average operation time and intraoperative blood loss were 280 ± 32 min and 550 ± 65 ml, respectively, in the NT group. No blood transfusion was required in either group. The postoperative morbidities (bile leakage and peritoneal effusion) were similar between groups. No mortality within 90 days was observed.

Conclusions

Ultrasonography-guided needle insertion is a convenient, safe and efficient surgical approach to define a resection plane for conducting AR.

Learning from Zebrafish Hematopoiesis

Hematopoiesis is a complex process that tightly regulates the generation, proliferation, differentiation, and maintenance of hematopoietic cells. Disruptions in hematopoiesis can lead to various diseases affecting both hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic systems, such as leukemia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic granuloma. The zebrafish serves as a powerful vertebrate model for studying hematopoiesis, offering valuable insights into both hematopoietic regulation and hematopoietic diseases. In this chapter, we present a comprehensive overview of zebrafish hematopoiesis, highlighting its distinctive characteristics in hematopoietic processes. We discuss the ontogeny and modulation of both primitive and definitive hematopoiesis, as well as the microenvironment that supports hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells. Additionally, we explore the utility of zebrafish as a disease model and its potential in drug discovery, which not only advances our understanding of the regulatory mechanisms underlying hematopoiesis but also facilitates the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies for hematopoietic diseases.

Intervention effect of Potentilla discolor-Euonymus alatus on intestinal flora of type 2 diabetes mellitus rats

OBJECTIVE

With this study, we aimed at exploring the regulation mechanism of Potentilla discolor-Euonymus alatus on intestinal flora of T2DM (Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus) rats induced by high-fat diet combined with streptozotocin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

T2DM rats were induced by high-fat diet combined with streptozotocin. There were normal control group, model group, metformin group, high-dose Chinese medicine group and low-dose Chinese medicine group. Each group included 10 rats. Normal control group: normal feeding, no modeling, ordinary feed, and gavage of 0.9% normal saline. Model group: T2DM rats, high-fat diet, and gavage of 0.9% normal saline. Metformin group: T2DM rats, high-fat diet and fed with metformin solution. High-dose Chinese medicine group: T2DM rats, high-fat diet, and gavage of concentrated Chinese medicine at a dose of 6 times the clinical dose. Low-dose Chinese medicine group: T2DM rats, high-fat diet, and gavage of concentrated Chinese medicine at a dose twice the clinical dose. The general situation of T2DM rats was observed, and the changes of intestinal flora were observed with 16SrDNA sequencing.

RESULTS

The T2DM rats induced by high-fat diet combined with streptozotocin were molded. After intervention, at the class level, the ratio of γ-proteobacteria was 22.30% in the model group, 11.97% in the metformin group, 3.24% in the high-dose Chinese herbs group and 1.72% in the low-dose Chinese herbs group; the ratio of Erysipelothrix insidiosa was 4.73% in the model group, 4.68% in the metformin group, 3.93% in the high-dose Chinese herbsgroup and 2.92% in the low dose group; the ratio of Lactinobacillus was 2.30% in the model group, 0.01% in the metformin group, 0.00% in the high-dose Chinese herbs group, and 0.00% low-dose Chinese herbs group; at the portal level, the Firmicutes/Bacteroides was 0.88 in the normal control group, 3.40 in the model group, 1.71 in the metformin group, 2.74 in high-dose Chinese medicine group, and 1.34 in low-dose Chinese medicine group; at the genus level, the relative abundance of Lactobacillus in the model group was 3.28%, that of Akkermansia was 1.99%, that of Shigella coli was 22.08%, and that of Vibrio phaseus was 7.67%. All of them were improved after the intervention of metformin and traditional Chinese medicine.

CONCLUSIONS

Potentilla discolor-Euonymus Alatus could improve the composition and structure of intestinal flora in T2DM rats and regulate the diversity of intestinal flora. The ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes was adjusted, mainly to increase the number of Bacteroides; the flora related to intestinal barrier was adjusted, mainly to increase the number of Lactobacillus and Akkermansia bacteria.

The ETS transcription factor Spi2 regulates hematopoietic cell development in zebrafish

The E26 transformation-specific or E-twenty-six (ETS) genes encode a superfamily of transcription factors involved in diverse biological processes. Here, we report the identification and characterization of a previously unidentified member of the ETS transcription factors, Spi2, that is found exclusively in the ray-finned fish kingdom. We show that the expression of spi2 is restricted to hemogenic endothelial cells (HECs) and to hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) in zebrafish. Using bacteria artificial chromosome transgenesis, we generate a spi2 reporter line, TgBAC(spi2:P2a-GFP), which manifests the GFP pattern recapitulating the endogenous spi2 expression. Genetic ablation of spi2 has little effect on HEC formation and the endothelial-to-hematopoietic transition, but results in compromised proliferation of HSPCs in the caudal hematopoietic tissue (CHT) during early development and in severe myeloid lineage defect in adulthood. Epistatic analysis shows that spi2 acts downstream of runx1 in regulating HSPC development in the CHT. Our study identifies Spi2 as an essential regulator for definitive hematopoietic cell development and creates a TgBAC(spi2:P2a-GFP) reporter line for tracking HECs, HSPCs, myeloid cells and thrombocytes from early development to adulthood.

The mitochondrial RNA granule modulates manganese-dependent cell toxicity

Prolonged manganese exposure causes manganism, a neurodegenerative movement disorder. The identity of adaptive and nonadaptive cellular processes targeted by manganese remains mostly unexplored. Here we study mechanisms engaged by manganese in genetic cellular models known to increase susceptibility to manganese exposure, the plasma membrane manganese efflux transporter SLC30A10 and the mitochondrial Parkinson's gene PARK2. We found that SLC30A10 and PARK2 mutations as well as manganese exposure compromised the mitochondrial RNA granule composition and function, resulting in disruption of mitochondrial transcript processing. These RNA granule defects led to impaired assembly and function of the mitochondrial respiratory chain. Notably, cells that survived a cytotoxic manganese challenge had impaired RNA granule function, thus suggesting that this granule phenotype was adaptive. CRISPR gene editing of subunits of the mitochondrial RNA granule, FASTKD2 or DHX30, as well as pharmacological inhibition of mitochondrial transcription-translation, were protective rather than deleterious for survival of cells acutely exposed to manganese. Similarly, adult Drosophila mutants with defects in the mitochondrial RNA granule component scully were safeguarded from manganese-induced mortality. We conclude that impairment of the mitochondrial RNA granule function is a protective mechanism for acute manganese toxicity.

Csf1rb regulates definitive hematopoiesis in zebrafish

In vertebrates, hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) are capable of self-renewal and continuously replenishing all mature blood lineages throughout life. However, the molecular signaling regulating the maintenance and expansion of HSPCs remains incompletely understood. Colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R) is believed to be the primary regulator for the myeloid lineage but not HSPC development. Here, we show a surprising role of Csf1rb, a zebrafish homolog of mammalian CSF1R, in preserving the HSPC pool by maintaining the proliferation of HSPCs. Deficiency of csf1rb leads to a reduction in both HSPCs and their differentiated progenies, including myeloid, lymphoid and erythroid cells at early developmental stages. Likewise, the absence of csf1rb conferred similar defects upon HSPCs and leukocytes in adulthood. Furthermore, adult hematopoietic cells from csf1rb mutants failed to repopulate immunodeficient zebrafish. Interestingly, loss-of-function and gain-of-function assays suggested that the canonical ligands for Csf1r in zebrafish, including Csf1a, Csf1b and Il34, were unlikely to be ligands of Csf1rb. Thus, our data indicate a previously unappreciated role of Csf1r in maintaining HSPCs, independently of known ligands.

AB0334 EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF ABATACEPT IN CHINESE PATIENTS WITH ACTIVE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS: REAL-WORLD DATA

Background

Abatacept (ABA) has demonstrated efficacy and safety in active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients in Europe and the United States as one of bDMARDs [1]. However, the clinical activity of Abatacept (ABA) has not been sufficiently investigated in patients with RA from a real-world clinical setting in China.

Objectives

This study was designed to investigate the efficacy and safety of Abatacept in the RA patients in Chinese population who were refractory to csDMARDs, aiming to provide further reference for clinical rational drug use.

Methods

Clinical data of 55 patients with active RA who were admitted in the Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College from June 2020 to June 2021 and did not respond to csDMARDs was retrospectively analyzed. Patients in this study were treated with Abatacept (125 mg by subcutaneous injection once weekly combined with csDMARDs. Changes in clinical manifestations, including DAS28-ESR, CDAI, ACR 20/50/70 at week 12 and 24 from baseline and AEs during 24 weeks were observed and recorded.

Results

55 patients (46 women and 9 men) were included in this study with a mean age 50.80 ± 12.46 and a mean disease duration of 6.29 ± 6.22 years. The ACR 20 response at week 12 and 24 was 50.91% (28/55) and 87.27% (48/55), respectively. Besides, DAS 28-ESR score were significantly lower at week 12 and 24 compared to baseline (P <0.05) with 19 patients (34.55%) achieving clinical remission or low disease activity. Changes in CDAI scores revealed that 80% patients achieved clinical remission or low disease activity at week 24. DAS28-ESR score was significantly lower in previously untreated patients (Biologic-naive) (n=36) (3.40 ± 0.81) than in the previously treated patients (Biologic non-naive) (n=19) (3.83 ± 0.68) (P = 0.02) (Figure 1). RF, CCP antibody and GLOB levels were significantlyreduced in RA patients after 24-week ABA treatment compared to baseline (P﹤0.05) (Table 1). Two hepatitis B virus (HBV) carriers, two patients with active tuberculosis and one patient with latent tuberculosis status showed no reactivation of HBV and no new active tuberculosis lesions 24 weeks after treatment with ABA. AEs were reported in 9.1% (5/55), but no serious infections occurred.

Table 1.

Analysis of clinical and serological parameters at baseline and after treatment with Abatacept.

IndexesBaseline12 weeks24 weeksTJC6 (4，10)3 (2，4)*2 (1，3) **SJC2 (1，4)1 (0，2)*0 (0，1)**PtGA-VAS（0-10cm）8 (7，10)5 (3，6)*2（2，3）**HAQ2 (0，4)1 (0，2)*0 (0，1)**ESR （mm/h）51 (41，89)37 (28，51)*23 (17，37)**HsCRP（mg/L）14.08 (3.7，35.0)5，77 (2.27，20.78) *4.12 (1.34，9.37) **GLOB34.47±5.69-30.33±3.81*RF-IgM (IU/mL)408.55 (68.8,566.5)-167.41 (34.9, 171.25) *RF-IgG (U/mL)8.63 (4.55, 11.1)-7.94 (3.13, 6.23) *RF-IgA (U/mL)90.18 (25.63, 99.12)-58.20 (16.81, 59.09) *CCP (RU/mL)1095.45 (66.79, 1033.28)-782.0 (58.49, 857.5) *

*p﹤0.05,TJC=Tender joint count, SJC=Swollen joint count, GLOB= immunoglobulin.

Conclusion

In the Chinese patients with active RA refractory to csDMARDs, the combination of ABA and csDMARDs showed great clinical efficacy and a favorable safety profile. Moreover, ABA resulted in better efficacy in patients previously untreated with biologics than previously treated with biologics.

References

[1]Weinblatt ME, Schiff M, Valente R,et al. Head-to-head comparison of subcutaneous abatacept versus adalimumab for rheumatoid arthritis: findings of a phase IIIb, multinational, prospective, randomized study. Arthritis Rheum 2013; 65:28-38.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

Diagnostic panel of serum miR-125b-5p, miR-182-5p, and miR-200c-3p as non-invasive biomarkers for urothelial bladder cancer

PURPOSE

This study aimed to identify a diagnostic panel of serum microRNAs (miRNAs) for the early detection of bladder cancer (BC).

METHODS

Serum samples were collected from 112 BC patients and 112 normal controls (NCs). A three-stage selection was conducted to identify differentially expressed miRNAs as candidates to construct the diagnostic panel. Further, to explore their potential roles in urothelial BC, bioinformatics analyses, including target genes prediction and functional annotation, were used.

RESULTS

Six downregulated miRNAs (miR-1-3p, miR-30a-5p, miR-100-5p, miR-125b-5p, miR-143-3p, and miR-200c-3p) and one upregulated, miR-182-5p, in BC patients' serum were detected compared to NCs and were selected to establish the diagnostic panel. Based on a backward stepwise logistic regression analysis, miR-125b-5p, miR-182-5p, and miR-200c-3p comprehended the diagnostic panel [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.959, sensitivity = 91.67%, specificity = 92.5%].

CONCLUSION

The panel of three miRNAs had an excellent diagnostic capability, representing a potential non-invasive method for early BC detection.

MicroRNA-29a-3p regulates chemosensitivity in hypopharyngeal carcinoma via targeting Cdc42

INTRODUCTION

Hypopharyngeal carcinoma is one kind of high malignant tumour followed by poor prognosis in head and neck carcinomas. This study aimed to detect miR-29a-3p and Cdc42 in patients with hypopharyngeal carcinoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The expression of miR-29a-3p and Cdc42 mRNA were detected, and the correlation between miR-29a-3p/Cdc42 and clinical stages was investigated.

RESULTS

The relative expression of miR-29a-3p in stage II, III and IV hypopharyngeal carcinoma tissues was significantly lower than that of stage I (P< 0.05). The relative expression of Cdc42 mRNA in stage I, III and IV tissues was significantly higher than that of stage I (P< 0.05). The expression of miR-29a-3p in hypopharyngeal carcinoma with lymph node metastasis was significantly lower than that without lymph node metastasis (P = 0.045).

CONCLUSION

MiR-29a-3p and Cdc42 mRNA could be potential diagnostic biomarkers of hypopharyngeal carcinoma.

Slc20a1b is essential for hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell expansion in zebrafish

Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) are able to self-renew and can give rise to all blood lineages throughout their lifetime, yet the mechanisms regulating HSPC development have yet to be discovered. In this study, we characterized a hematopoiesis defective zebrafish mutant line named smu07, which was obtained from our previous forward genetic screening, and found the HSPC expansion deficiency in the mutant. Positional cloning identified that slc20a1b, which encodes a sodium phosphate cotransporter, contributed to the smu07 blood phenotype. Further analysis demonstrated that mutation of slc20a1b affects HSPC expansion through cell cycle arrest at G2/M phases in a cell-autonomous manner. Our study shows that slc20a1b is a vital regulator for HSPC proliferation in zebrafish early hematopoiesis and provides valuable insights into HSPC development.

De Novo Germline and Somatic Variants Convergently Promote Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Simplex Brain Arteriovenous Malformation

[Figure: see text].

[Expression of nicotinamide-N-methyltransferase in gastric cancer and its biological and clinicopathological significance]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expression of nicotinamide-N-methyltransferase (NNMT) in gastric cancer (GC) and explore its biological and clinicopathological significance.

OBJECTIVE

We screened the candidate genes associated with the classification and prognosis of gastric cancer by analyzing GEO, Oncomine and TCGA datasets. The molecular pathways and protein interaction network involving these candidate genes were analyzed using STRING, GSEA, David and Cytoscape software. The expressions of the candidate genes in 28 pairs of gastric cancer and adjacent tissues were detected with qRTPCR, and CCK-8 assay, clone formation assay, wound healing assay and Transwell assay were carried out to analyze the effects of modulation of NNMT expression on proliferation, invasion and migration of different gastric cancer cell lines.

OBJECTIVE

NNMT was highly expressed in gastric cancer tissues and was negatively correlated with the prognosis of patients with gastric cancer. Pathway analysis showed that the high expression of NNMT was associated with adhesion-related pathway molecules such as extracellular matrix receptors, cell adhesion molecules, and cytokine receptors, while its low expression was associated with base mismatch repair and riboflavin metabolism. Protein interaction analysis showed that NNMT interacted with 16 differentially expressed proteins such as AURKA and was co-expressed with TAGLN, PTRF, AKAP12 and IGF2BP2. In clinical tissue specimens, qRT-PCR results showed that the expression of NNMT mRNA was significantly higher in gastric cancer tissues than in the adjacent tissues (P < 0.05). In gastric cancer cell lines, overexpression of NNMT was found to significantly promote cell proliferation, invasion and migration, while NNMT knockdown produced obvious inhibitory effects on cell proliferation, invasion and migration.

OBJECTIVE

NNMT is highly expressed in gastric cancer and negatively correlated with the prognosis of gastric cancer patients. The high expression of NNMT promotes the proliferation, invasion and metastasis of gastric cancer cells, suggesting the potential of NNMT as prognostic marker of gastric cancer.

Two phenotypically and functionally distinct microglial populations in adult zebrafish

Microglia are the tissue-resident macrophages in the central nervous system and are critically involved in immune defense, neural development and function, and neuroinflammation. The versatility of microglia has long been attributed to heterogeneity. Recent studies have revealed possible heterogeneity in human but not in murine microglia, yet a firm demonstration linking microglial heterogeneity to functional phenotypes remains scarce. Here, we identified two distinct microglial populations in adult zebrafish that differ in morphology, distribution, development, and function. The predominant population, phagocytotic microglia, which expresses ccl34b.1, is broadly distributed, amoeboid in shape, highly mobile, and phagocytotic. The other white matter-enriched ccl34b.1^- population, regulatory microglia, has ramified protrusions but has limited mobility and phagocytosis capability. These functional differences are further supported by distinct transcriptomes and responses to bacterial infection, where ccl34b.1⁺ microglia function in tissue clearance and ccl34b.1^- microglia release immune regulators. Our study sheds light on the heterogeneity and functional diversification of microglia.

Environmental impacts of nitrogen emissions in China and the role of policies in emission reduction

Atmospheric reactive nitrogen (N_r) has been a cause of serious environmental pollution in China. Historically, China used too little N_r in its agriculture to feed its population. However, with the rapid increase in N fertilizer use for food production and fossil fuel consumption for energy supply over the last four decades, increasing gaseous N_r species (e.g. NH₃ and NO_x) have been emitted to the atmosphere and then deposited as wet and dry deposition, with adverse impacts on air, water and soil quality as well as plant biodiversity and human health. This paper reviews the issues associated with this in a holistic way. The emissions, deposition, impacts, actions and regulations for the mitigation of atmospheric N_r are discussed systematically. Both NH₃ and NO_x make major contributions to environmental pollution but especially to the formation of secondary fine particulate matter (PM_2.5), which impacts human health and light scattering (haze). In addition, atmospheric deposition of NH₃ and NO_x causes adverse impacts on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems due to acidification and eutrophication. Regulations and practices introduced by China that meet the urgent need to reduce N_r emissions are explained and resulting effects on emissions are discussed. Recommendations for improving future N management for achieving 'win-win' outcomes for Chinese agricultural production and food supply, and human and environmental health, are described. This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'Air quality, past present and future'.

Endoderm-Derived Myeloid-like Metaphocytes in Zebrafish Gill Mediate Soluble Antigen-Induced Immunity

Immune cells in the mucosal barriers of vertebrates are highly heterogeneous in their origin and function. This heterogeneity is further exemplified by the recent discovery of ectoderm-derived immune cells-metaphocytes in zebrafish epidermis. Yet, whether non-hematopoiesis-derived immune cells generally exist in barrier tissues remains obscured. Here, we report the identification and characterization of an endoderm-derived immune cell population in the gill and intestine of zebrafish. Transcriptome analysis reveals that the endoderm-derived immune cells are myeloid-like cells with high similarities to the ectoderm-derived metaphocytes in epidermis. Like metaphocytes in epidermis, the endoderm-derived immune cells are non-phagocytic but professional in external soluble antigen uptake. Depletion of the endoderm-derived immune cells in gill hinder the local immune response to external soluble stimulants. This study demonstrates a general existence of non-hematopoiesis-derived immune cells in zebrafish mucosal barriers and challenges the prevalent view that resident immune cells in mucosal barriers arise exclusively from hematopoiesis.

Cryptotanshinone ameliorates the pathogenicity of Streptococcus suis by targeting suilysin and inflammation

AIMS

Streptococcus suis is a highly zoonotic pathogen that is a serious threat to human health and the development of the pig industry worldwide. The virulence factors produced during S. suis infection play an important role, and the pore-forming activity of suilysin is considered an important virulence-related factor, especially in meningitis. Treatment of S. suis infection with traditional antibiotics is becoming increasingly challenging due to bacterial resistance. The purpose of this study is to verify the role of cryptotanshinone in the process of S. suis infection and provide a new drug precursor for the treatment of S. suis infection.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this study, we used circular dichroism spectroscopy to demonstrate that cryptotanshinone alters the secondary structure of suilysin. The results of the antibacterial activity and haemolysis assays showed cryptotanshinone could inhibit the pore-forming activity of suilysin without affecting bacterial growth or its expression. We also showed that cryptotanshinone reduces bacterial damage and penetration in vitro, reduce the S. suis-induced inflammatory response and provide protection against bacterial infections in vivo and in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

Cryptotanshinone is a potential compound precursor for treating S. suis infection.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Cryptotanshinone may be a promising leading compound for S. suis infection and related diseases.

Tripartite-motif family protein 35-28 regulates microglia development by preventing necrotic death of microglial precursors in zebrafish

Microglia are tissue-resident macrophages in the central nervous system (CNS) that play essential roles in the regulation of CNS development and homeostasis. Yet, the genetic networks governing microglia development remain incompletely defined. Here, we report the identification and characterization of a microglia-defective zebrafish mutant wulong^hkz12 (wul^hkz12 ) isolated from an ethylnitrosourea (ENU)-based genetic screen. We show that wul^hkz12 mutants harbors a missense point mutation in the gene region encoding the PRY/SPRY domain of the tripartite-motif family protein 35-28 (trim35-28) gene. Time-lapse imaging revealed that the loss of Trim35-28 function causes lytic necrosis of microglial precursors/peripheral macrophages, as indicated by cytoplasmic swelling and membrane rupture of these precursors and accompanied by neutrophil infiltration and systemic inflammation. Intriguingly, the lytic necrosis of microglial precursors in trim35-28-deficient mutants appeared to depend neither on the canonical pyroptotic nor necroptotic pathways, as inhibition of the key component in each pathway could not rescue the microglia phenotype in trim35-28-deficient mutants. Finally, results from tissue-specific rescue experiments suggested that Trim35-28 acts cell-autonomously in the survival of microglial precursors. Taken together, the findings of our study reveal Trim35-28 as a regulatory protein essential for microglia development.

Lightening the way of hematopoiesis: Infrared laser-mediated lineage tracing with high spatial-temporal resolution

Hematopoiesis refers to the developmental process generating all blood lineages. In vertebrates, there are multiple waves of hematopoiesis, which emerge in distinct anatomic locations at different times and give rise to different blood lineages. In the last decade, numerous lineage-tracing studies have been conducted to investigate the hierarchical structure of the hematopoietic system. Yet, the majority of these lineage-tracing studies are not able to integrate the spatial-temporal information with the developmental potential of hematopoietic cells. With the newly developed infrared laser-evoked gene operator (IR-LEGO) microscope heating system, it is now possible to improve our understanding of hematopoiesis to spatial-temporal-controlled single-cell resolution. Here, we discuss the recent development of the IR-LEGO system and its applications in hematopoietic lineage tracing in vivo.

[Research progress in the application of intralymphatic allergen immunotherapy in allergic diseases]

SummaryAlthough subcutaneous immunotherapy （SCIT） and sublingual immunotherapy （SLIT） have a positive effect, there are drawbacks such as long treatment time period, frequent treatment times, and risk of adverse reactions. Peripheral superficial lymph node injection of allergen immunotherapy （ILIT） as an emerging specific immunotherapy method has the advantages of high safety, less adverse reactions, short treatment time, less treatment times, less patient pain, and exact curative effect. In recent years, more and more scholars have conducted extensive research on intra-lymphatic injection of immunotherapy for allergic diseases. This paper systematically summarizes the theoretical basis, method, safety, effectiveness and possible immune mechanism of ILIT.

In vivo single-cell lineage tracing in zebrafish using high-resolution infrared laser-mediated gene induction microscopy

Heterogeneity broadly exists in various cell types both during development and at homeostasis. Investigating heterogeneity is crucial for comprehensively understanding the complexity of ontogeny, dynamics, and function of specific cell types. Traditional bulk-labeling techniques are incompetent to dissect heterogeneity within cell population, while the new single-cell lineage tracing methodologies invented in the last decade can hardly achieve high-fidelity single-cell labeling and long-term in-vivo observation simultaneously. In this work, we developed a high-precision infrared laser-evoked gene operator heat-shock system, which uses laser-induced CreER^T2 combined with loxP-DsRedx-loxP-GFP reporter to achieve precise single-cell labeling and tracing. In vivo study indicated that this system can precisely label single cell in brain, muscle and hematopoietic system in zebrafish embryo. Using this system, we traced the hematopoietic potential of hemogenic endothelium (HE) in the posterior blood island (PBI) of zebrafish embryo and found that HEs in the PBI are heterogeneous, which contains at least myeloid unipotent and myeloid-lymphoid bipotent subtypes.

Animals begin life as a single cell that then divides to become a complex organism with many different types of cells. Every time a cell divides, each of its two daughter cells can either stay the same type as their parent or adopt a different identity. Once a cell acquires an identity, it usually cannot ‘go back’ and choose another. Eventually, this process will produce daughter cells with the identity of a specific tissue or organ and that cannot divide further.

Multipotent cells are cells that can produce daughter cells with different identities, including other multipotent cells. These cells can usually give rise to different cell types in a specific organ, and generate more cells to replace any cells that die in that organ. Tracking the cells descended from a multipotent cell in a specific tissue can provide information about how the tissue develops.

Hemogenic endothelium cells produce the multipotent cells that give rise to two types of white blood cells: myeloid cells and lymphoid cells. Myeloid cells include innate immune cells that protect the body from infection non-specifically; while lymphoid cells include T cells and B cells with receptors that detect specific bacteria or viruses. It remains unclear whether each of these two cell types originate from a single population of hemogenic endothelium cells or from two distinct subpopulations.

He et al. have now developed a new optical technique to label a single hemogenic endothelium cell in a zebrafish and track the cell and its descendants. This method revealed that there are at least two distinct populations of hemogenic endothelium cells. One of them can give rise to both lymphoid and myeloid cells, while the other can only give rise to myeloid cells.

These findings shed light on the mechanisms of blood formation, and potentially could provide useful tools to study the development of diseases such as leukemia. Additionally, the single-cell labeling technology He et al. have developed could be applied to study the development of other tissues and organs.

Enantioconvergent hydrolysis of m-nitrostyrene oxide at an elevated concentration by Phaseolus vulgaris epoxide hydrolase in the organic/aqueous two-phase system

(R)-m-Nitrophenyl-1,2-ethanediol (m-NPED) is a versatile and highly value-added chiral building block for the synthesis of some bioactive compounds, such as (R)-Nifenalol. To efficiently produce (R)-m-NPED through the enantioconvergent hydrolysis of racemic (rac-) m-nitrostyrene oxide (m-NSO) using the whole resting cells of Escherichia coli/pCold-pveh2 intracellularly expressing PvEH2, an epoxide hydrolase from Phaseolus vulgaris, two reaction systems were investigated. In the Na₂ HPO₄ -NaH₂ PO₄ buffer (50 mmol l^-1 , pH 7·0) system, merely 15 mmol l^-1 rac-m-NSO was successfully subjected to enantioconvergent hydrolysis, producing (R)-m-NPED with 86·0% enantiomeric excess (ee_p ) and 177·6 mg l^-1  h^-1 space-time yield (STY). The experimental result indicated that there is inhibitory effect of rac-m-NSO at high concentration on PvEH2. To efficiently increase the concentration of rac-m-NSO and the STY of (R)-m-NPED, petroleum ether was first selected to construct an organic/aqueous two-phase system. Then, both the volume ratio (v_o /v_b ) of petroleum ether to phosphate buffer and the weight ratio (w_c /w_s ) of E. coli/pCold-pveh2 dry cells to rac-m-NSO were optimized as 2 : 8 and 5 : 1, respectively. In the optimized petroleum ether/phosphate buffer two-phase system, the enantioconvergent hydrolysis of rac-m-NSO at 40 mmol l^-1 (6·6 mg ml^-1 ) was carried out at 25°C for 12 h using 33·0 mg ml^-1 vacuum freeze-dried cells of E. coli/pCold-pveh2, producing (R)-m-NPED with 87·4% ee_p , 82·3% yield and 502·4 mg l^-1  h^-1 STY. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: Epoxide hydrolases play a crucial role in producing enantiopure epoxides and/or vicinal diols. However, numerous biocatalytic reactions of organic compounds, such as epoxides, in aqueous phase suffered various restrictions. Herein, the enantioconvergent hydrolysis of rac-m-NSO in two reaction systems was investigated using the whole cells of Escherichia coli/pCold-pveh2. As a result, the concentration of rac-m-NSO and the space-time yield of (R)-m-NPED in organic/aqueous two-phase system were significantly increased, when compared with those in aqueous phase. To our knowledge, this is the first report about the production of (R)-m-NPED from rac-m-NSO at an elevated concentration by PvEH2 in the two-phase system.

A heterologous 'prime-boost' anti-PEDV immunization for pregnant sows protects neonatal piglets through lactogenic immunity against PEDV

Abstract

Porcine epidemic diarrhoea virus (PEDV) causes severe diarrhoea in neonatal suckling piglets with a high mortality. Maternal vaccines that can induce lactogenic immunity to protect suckling piglets via colostrums and milk are pivotal for the prevention and control of PEDV infection in neonatal suckling piglets. In this study, a group of pregnant sows were first orally immunized with coated PEDV‐loaded microspheres and boosted with killed PEDV vaccines (heterologous prime‐boost). It has been detected that the levels of PEDV‐specific antibodies (IgG and IgA) in their sera and milks were higher than other negative groups (P < 0·001 or P < 0·05). Furthermore, it has been proved by the neutralization assay that the induced antibodies could significantly inhibit virus infection as compared to other negative groups (P < 0·01 or P < 0·05). Importantly, after PEDV challenge, more than 90% of the suckling piglets delivered by the sows in the heterologous prime‐boost group were completely protected. Overall, the results show that ‘heterologous prime‐boost’ form is an efficient and effective way to provide protection for suckling piglets against PEDV through lactogenic immunity.

Significance and Impact of the Study

As a widespread swine pathogen, PEDV affects the swine industry enormously. It causes enteritis in swine of all ages and is often fatal in neonatal piglets. Our data show that pregnant sows were immunized with ‘coated PEDV‐loaded microspheres + killed PEDV vaccines’ (heterologous prime‐boost immunization) could protect more than 90% suckling piglets delivered by the sows against the virus. These findings provide a new model of developing safe and effective immunizations for newborn animals against established and emerging enteric infections.

Nlrc3-like is required for microglia maintenance in zebrafish

Microglia are tissue-resident macrophages residing in the central nervous system (CNS) and play critical roles in removing cellular debris and infectious agents as well as regulating neurogenesis and neuronal activities. Yet, the molecular basis underlying the establishment of microglia pool and the maintenance of their homeostasis in the CNS remain largely undefined. Here we report the identification and characterization of a mutant zebrafish, which harbors a point mutation in the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD) like receptor gene nlrc3-like, resulting in the loss of microglia in a temperature sensitive manner. Temperature shift assay reveals that the late onset of nlrc3-like deficiency leads to excessive microglia cell death. Further analysis shows that the excessive microglia death in nlrc3-like deficient mutants is attributed, at least in part, to aberrant activation of canonical inflammasome pathway. Our study indicates that proper regulation of inflammasome cascade is critical for the maintenance of microglia homeostasis.

Optimal dilation time for combined small endoscopic sphincterotomy and balloon dilation for common bile duct stones: a multicentre, single-blinded, randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic sphincterotomy is the established treatment for common bile duct stones. Balloon dilation offers an alternative. Prolonged dilation (300 s) with a 10 mm diameter balloon decreases the occurrence of pancreatitis after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). We aimed to determine the optimal duration of dilation for combined endoscopic sphincterotomy and balloon dilation for the removal of common bile duct stones.

METHODS

We did a multicentre, single-blinded, randomised controlled trial at 15 tertiary surgical centres in China. Eligible patients (≥18 years) with native papilla and common bile duct stones (≤1·5 cm in size and <2 cm in diameter) undergoing ERCP were randomly assigned (1:1:1:1:1) to receive balloon dilation for 0, 30, 60, 180, or 300 s after deep bile duct cannulation. Randomisation was done by an independent statistician using a computer-generated randomisation list with a block size of ten, stratified by centre. Patients and outcome assessors, but not endoscopists and investigators, were masked to treatment allocation. Balloon dilation was done with controlled radial expansion balloons according to common bile duct stone size. Stones were removed using stone retrieval balloons or baskets. The primary endpoint was overall frequency of post-ERCP pancreatitis. The primary efficacy analysis and safety analyses were done in the modified intention-to-treat population, which included all randomly assigned patients with successful cannulation, but excluded those who withdrew consent after randomisation. This study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02510495, and is complete.

FINDINGS

Between July 29, 2015, and Dec 1, 2017, 3721 consecutive patients with common bile duct stones were recruited, 1718 of whom were excluded. The remaining 2003 patients underwent a small (3-5 mm) endoscopic sphincterotomy. 83 patients withdrew consent after the ERCP procedure, thus 1920 patients were included in the modified intention-to-treat analysis (0 s [n=371], 30 s [n=384], 60 s [n=388], 180 s [n=390], and 300 s [n=387]). Overall, post-ERCP pancreatitis occurred in 199 (10%) of 1920 patients (44 [12%] patients in the 0 s group, 28 [7%] in the 30 s group, 32 [8%] in the 60 s group, 36 [9%] in the 180 s group, and 59 [15%] in the 300 s group). Prolonged dilation (300 s) significantly increased the occurrence of post-ERCP pancreatitis compared with shorter balloon dilation (p=0·002). The frequency of post-ERCP pancreatitis was significantly lower in the 30, 60, and 180 s groups than in the 300 s group (relative risk [RR] 0·48, 95% CI 0·31-0·73; p=0·0005 vs the 30 s group; 0·54, 0·36-0·81; p=0·003 vs the 60 s group; 0·61, 0·41-0·89; p=0·01 vs the 180 s group). The frequency of post-ERCP pancreatitis was significantly higher in the 0 s group than the 30 s group (RR 1·62, 1·04-2·56; p=0·03). No difference in stone extraction (all ≥90%) was observed between groups. Following ERCP, 90 (5%) of 1920 patients had acute cholangitis, 14 (<1%) had acute cholecystitis, and five (<1%) had gastrointestinal bleeding, with no significant differences between groups. One (<1%) patient had Stapfer II perforation, which resolved spontaneously with conservative treatment.

INTERPRETATION

A balloon dilation time of 30 s for combined endoscopic sphincterotomy and balloon dilation reduced the frequency of post-ERCP pancreatitis and was determined to be the optimum dilation time for the removal of common bile duct stones.

FUNDING

National Natural Science Foundation of China, Gansu Competitive Foundation Projects for Technology Development and Innovation.

Investigation of TLD and EBT3 performance under the presence of 1.5T, 0.35T, and 0T magnetic field strengths in MR/CT visible materials

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLD) and radiochromic EBT3 film inside MR/CT visible geometric head and thorax phantoms in the presence of: 0, 0.35, and 1.5 T magnetic fields.

METHODS

Thermoluminescent Dosimeters reproducibility studies were examined by irradiating IROC-Houston's TLD acrylic block five times under 0 and 1.5 T configurations of Elekta's Unity system and three times under 0 and 0.35 T configurations of ViewRay's MRIdian Cobalt-60 (⁶⁰ Co) system. Both systems were irradiated with an equivalent 10 × 10 cm² field size, and a prescribed dose of 3 Gy to the maximum depth deposition (dmax). EBT3 film and TLDs were investigated using two geometrical Magnetic Resonance (MR)-guided Radiation Therapy (MRgRT) head and thorax phantoms. Each geometrical phantom had eight quadrants that combined to create a centrally located rectangular tumor (3 × 3 × 5 cm³ ) surrounded by tissue to form a 15 × 15 × 15 cm³ cubic phantom. Liquid polyvinyl chloride plastic and Superflab were used to simulate the tumor and surrounding tissue in the head phantom, respectively. Synthetic ballistic gel and a heterogeneous in-house mixture were used to construct the tumor and surrounding tissue in the thorax phantom, respectively. EBT3 and double-loaded TLDs were used in the phantoms to compare beam profiles and point dose measurements with and without magnetic fields. GEANT4 Monte Carlo simulations were performed to validate the detectors for both Unity 0 T/1.5 T and MRIdian 0 T/0.35 T configurations.

RESULTS

Average TLD block measurements which, compared the magnetic field effects (magnetic field vs 0 T) on the Unity and MRIdian systems, were 0.5% and 0.6%, respectively. The average ratios between magnetic field effects for the geometric thorax and head phantoms under the Unity system were -0.2% and 1.6% and for the MRIdian system were 0.2% and -0.3%, respectively. Beam profiles generated with both systems agreed with Monte Carlo measurements and previous literature findings.

CONCLUSIONS

TLDs and EBT3 film dosimeters could potentially be used in MR/CT visible tissue equivalent phantoms that will experience a magnetic field environment.

Dysregulation of Microglial Function Contributes to Neuronal Impairment in Mcoln1a-Deficient Zebrafish

Type IV mucolipidosis (ML-IV) is a neurodegenerative lysosome storage disorder caused by mutations in the MCOLN1 gene. However, the cellular and molecular bases underlying the neuronal phenotypes of ML-IV disease remain elusive. Using a forward genetic screening, we identified a zebrafish mutant, biluo, that harbors a hypomorphic mutation in mcoln1a, one of the two zebrafish homologs of mammalian MCOLN1. The mcoln1a-deficient mutants display phenotypes partially recapitulating the key features of ML-IV disorder, including the accumulation of enlarged late endosomes in microglia and aberrant neuronal activities in both spontaneous and visual-evoking conditions in optic tectal neurons. We further show that the accumulation of enlarged late endosomes in microglia is caused by the impairment of late endosome and lysosome fusion and the aberrant neuronal activities can be partially rescued by the reconstitution of Mcoln1a function in microglia. Our findings suggest that dysregulation of microglial function may contribute to the development and progression of ML-IV disease.

•

mcoln1a-deficient fish display microglia impairment and aberrant neuronal activity

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The aberrant neuronal activity can be rescued by expressing WT mcoln1a in microglia

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Impairment of microglia-neuron contact contributes to the aberrant neuronal activity

Understanding electro-catalysis by using density functional theory

DFT calculations are indispensable for understanding the electro-catalysis through explanation of the experimental phenomena, prediction of experimental results, and guiding of the experimental investigation.

[The relationship between the key nasal symptoms and the level of histamineand leukotriene D4 in serum and nasal secretions in allergic rhinitis]

Objective:To investigate the relationship between main nasal symptoms and the levels of histamine and leukotriene D4(LTD4) in serum and nasal secretions in allergic rhinitis(AR),and provide a preliminary guidance for individualized treatment in AR.Method:One hundred and eight cases of AR were divided into two groups,i.e.sneezing group and nasal congestion group,according to 2014 clinical guidelines for allergic rhinitis from January 2014 to June 2015.The levels of histamine and LTD4 in serum and nasal secretions were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) and the relationship was explored between the clinical main nasal symptoms score and the levels of histamine and LTD4.Result:The scores of sneezing(5.58±2.59)for AR were obviously related to the levels of histamine in serum(8.39±4.07)ng/ml and nasal secretion(5.06±2.47)ng/ml,(r=0.79,0.78,all P<0.05).The scores of nasal congestion(5.34±2.36) for AR were also related to the levels of LTD4 in serum(0.356±0.155 ng/ml) and nasal secretion(0.215±0.092)ng/ml,(r=0.74,0.72,all P<0.05).And the levels of histamine(8.39±4.07)ng/ml and LTD4(0.356±0.155) ng/ml in serum for AR patients were positively correlated with the levels in nasal secretions(r=0.99,P<0.01;r=0.98,P<0.01).Conclusion:In AR patients,the high levels of histamine and LTD4 in serum and nasal secretions are closely related to the sneezing symptoms and nasal obstruction symptoms,respectively.

[Extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma, nasal type: a clinical analysis]

Objective:To explore the clinical diagnosis and treatment characteristics and clinical factors of extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma, nasal type and provide the basis for clinical individual therapy and experience.Method:The 25 cases personal data of ENKTL received from December in 2009 to July in 2016 by our department including clinical manifestation, the serum EBV-DNA detection, imaging examination, Ann-Arbor staging, histological grade, treatment, and prognosis, etc. were retrospectively analyzed. All of the patients were pathological diagnosis and received standard, specification and system treatment. Single factor survival analysis was performed by Kaplan-Meier method and Log-rank test, and multivariate analysis was carried out using Coxproportional hazard model in the risk assessment about the factors affecting the prognosis of clinical.Result:Of the 25 patients, 15 cases(60%) were in stage ⅠE-ⅡE, which 1 year and 3 years (overall survival) OS were 100%, 100% respectively and 10 cases(40%) were in stage ⅢE-ⅣE, which 1 year and 3 years OS were respectively 40.0%, 26.7%. It had significant statistical difference (P= 0.000). Radiotherapy alone in 3 cases which 1 year and 3 years OS were respectively 100%, 100%;Chemotherapy alone in 6 cases, which 1 year and 3 years OS were 53.6% and 53.6%, respectively; 16 cases of comprehensive treatment combined radiation and chemotherapy which 1 year and 3 years OS are 84.6% and 84.6% respectively. There were significant difference between three kinds of treatment model (P= 0.027), and chemotherapy alone had the worst prognosis. Further multivariate analysis using Coxproportional hazard model showed that the course of the disease, B symptoms, EBV-DNA copy number positive, treatment mode closely associated with the prognosis (P were 0.006, 0.003, 0.010, 0.040 respectively).Conclusion:Extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma, nasal type invasive is strong, the overall prognosis is poor. For early Ann Arbor staging, low risk and limited to the nasal cavity cases, radiotherapy alone curative effect is better. While for strong attack range or terminal patients, chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy is the first selection. In addition, this result shows that Ann Arbor staging, treatment pattern, the course of the disease, B symptoms, EBV-DNA copy number positive are independent prognostic factors.