[Comparison of clinical effects between periodontal endoscopy aiding subgingival debridement and flap surgery].

OBJECTIVE: To compare the clinical effects of periodontal endoscopy aiding subgingival debridement with periodontal flap surgery on residual deep pockets of chronic periodontitis. METHODS: In the single-blind randomized control clinical study, residual deep pockets of periodontitis patients were still existing when re-evaluation after receiving initial periodontal treatment.The pockets which were necessary for bone surgery or guided tissue regeneration surgery were excluded.The sites were divided into test group and control group randomly.Test group sites underwent periodontal endoscopy aiding debridement and control group sites had periodontal flap surgery.At the baseline and 3 months later, parameters, such as plaque index (PLI), bleeding index (BI), probing depth (PD), attachment loss (AL) were examined.Bone height was measured by parallelly digital X-ray dental film.Meanwhile, treatment time and comfort scale (visual analogue scale, VAS) were also recorded. RESULTS: At baseline, 41 proximal sites with residual deep pockets were enrolled (test sites=21, control sites=20).All the parameters were not significantly different between the two groups.PD decreased by (1.67±0.91) mm from (5.62±0.86) mm to (3.95±0.74) mm in test group and by (2.25±1.12) mm from (5.95±1.19) mm to (3.70±0.73) mm in control group significantly (P < 0.05).The difference between the two groups was not significant.The PD of all the sites decreased lower than 5 mm, meanwhile, 76% was lower than 4 mm in test group and 85% was lower than 4 mm in control group.The BI decreased by 0.81±0.93 in test group and 0.65±0.99 in control group significantly (P < 0.05).The difference between the two groups was not significant.The PLI showed a tendency of decrease more in test group and bone height showed a trend of decrease more in control group, however, the difference was not significant.The treatment time was almost the same.The patients felt more comfortable in the test group (VAS was 0.60±0.89) than the control group (VAS was 1.20±1.64), however, the difference was not significant. CONCLUSION: Periodontal endoscopy aiding subgingival debridement could improve periodontal status by reducing the PD and BI significantly in short term.The effect was almost the same with periodontal surgery and endoscopy treatment may decrease the necessity of surgery.Meanwhile, periodontal endoscopy has more comfortable treatment experience than flap surgery and does not need extra treatment time.

[Multivariable analysis of tooth loss in subjects with severe periodontitis over 4-year natural progression].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the characteristics of severe periodontitis with various number of tooth loss during 4-year natural progression, and to analyze the factors related to higher rate of tooth loss. METHODS: A total of 217 patients aged 15 to 44 years with severe periodontitis were included, who participated in a 4-year natural progression research. Data obtained from questionnaire survey, clinical examination and radiographic measurement. Tooth loss during 4-year natural progression was evaluated. The baseline periodontal disease related and caries related factors were calculated, including number of teeth with bone loss > 50%, number of missing molars, number of teeth with widened periodontal ligament space (WPDL), number of teeth with periapical lesions and etc. Characteristics of populations with various number of tooth loss and the related factors that affected higher rate of tooth loss were analyzed. RESULTS: In 4 years of natural progression, 103 teeth were lost, and annual tooth loss per person was 0.12±0.38. Nine patients lost 3 or more teeth. Thirty-four patients lost 1 or 2 teeth, and 174 patients were absent of tooth loss. Molars were mostly frequent to lose, and canines presented a minimum loss. The number of teeth with WPDL, with periapical lesions, with intrabony defects, with probing depth (PD)≥7 mm, with PD≥5 mm, with clinical attachment loss≥5 mm, with bone loss > 50% and with bone loss > 65% were positively correlated to number of tooth loss. Results from orderly multivariate Logistic regression showd that the number of teeth with bone loss > 50% OR=1.550), baseline number of molars lost (OR=1.774), number of teeth with WPDL (1 to 2: OR=1.415; ≥3: OR=13.105), number of teeth with periapical lesions (1 to 2: OR=4.393; ≥3: OR=9.526) and number of teeth with caries/residual roots (OR=3.028) were significant risk factors related to higher likelihood of tooth loss and multiple tooth loss. CONCLUSION: In 4 years of natural progression, the number of teeth with bone loss > 50%, baseline number of missing molars, number of teeth with WPDL, baseline number of teeth with periapical lesions and number of teeth with caries/residual roots were significantly related to higher risk of tooth loss and multiple tooth loss among Chinese young and middle-aged patients with severe periodontitis in rural areas.

[Role of growth arrest-specific protein 6 in migration and osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament cells].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the role of growth arrest-specific protein 6 (Gas6) in the process of the migration and osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs). METHODS: After different concentrations of recombinant human Gas6 (rhGas6) were added to hPDLCs, cell prolife-ration experiment (CCK-8) was taken to observe the effect of rhGas6 on hPDLCs cell proliferation. Scratch test and cell migration test (Transwell) were taken to analyze the migratory ability of hPDLCs in different concentrations of rhGas6 groups. After osteogenic induction, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR) was taken to detect the expression of the Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). ALP staining was used to detect the amount of mineralized nodules. RESULTS: After adding different concentrations of rhGas6, there were no statistically significant differences in hPDLCs cell proliferation among the experimental groups and the control group at 24, 48 and 72 hours (P>0.05). After 24 h of scratch, the healing area in the 800 µg/L of the rhGas6 group was greater than that in the control group, but without statistically significant difference (31.06%±13.70% vs. 21.79%±9.51%, P>0.05). In the migration test, after 24 h, the number of hPDLCs cells which penetrated through the membrane in the 800 µg/L rhGas6 group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P < 0.01). After rhGas6 was added and osteogenic induction, Runx2 and ALP gene expressions of hPDLCs in the 800 µg/L group were significantly higher than those in the control group (1.60±0.30 vs. 0.91±0.10, 2.81±0.61 vs. 0.86±0.12, P < 0.01). After Gas6 was knocked down, the ALP expression of hPDLCs was significantly lower than that of the control group (0.39±0.07 vs. 0.92±0.14, P < 0.01). There was no significant change in Runx2 expression (P>0.05). After 7 days of osteogenic induction, the mineralized nodules formed in the Gas6 knockdown group were significantly less than those in control group (0.25±0.04 vs. 1.00±0.11, P < 0.001). After 14 days of induction, the staining degree of the Gas6 knockdown group was lower than that of the control group, but there was no significant difference (0.86±0.04 vs. 1.00±0.16, P>0.05). CONCLUSION: After downregulation of Gas6 gene, mineralized nodule formation was reduced and ALP gene expressions were decreased in the early stage of osteogenic induction (7 days). After addition of rhGas6, Runx2 and ALP gene expressions were increased and the number of cell migration was increased, suggesting that Gas6 might play a promoting role in the migration and osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament cells.

[Gingival thickness assessment of gingival recession teeth].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the gingival thickness and gingival biotype of gingival recession teeth of Chinese population. METHODS: A total of 112 non-molar teeth with gingival recession in 34 patients were included. Direct measurement, cone-beam computerized tomography (CBCT) measurement and periodontal probe method were used to evaluate gingival thickness and biotype. Gingival thickness was measured at 2 mm apical to the gingival margin. Direct measurement was performed with a caliper of 0.01 mm resolution and anesthesia needles attached to silicone disk stops. Gingival biotype was assessed by sulcus probing, if the periodontal probe was visible through the gingival tissue, the gingival biotype was thin; If not visible, the gingival biotype was thick. The differences of gingival thickness among different gingival biotype, tooth site and gingival recession type were analyzed respectively. Besides, the results of CBCT measurement was analyzed compared with the direct measurement. RESULTS: The average gingival thickness of non-molar recession teeth was (1.17±0.41) mm. The average gingival thickness of thick and thin biotype group were (1.38±0.4) mm and (0.97±0.30) mm, respectively, with statistically significant difference (P<0.001). The median of gingival thickness was 1.1 mm. Using 1.1 mm as the cut-off value of thick and thin gingival thickness group, the results matched well with the gingival biotype classification results by periodontal probe method (P=1.000). The average gingival thickness of maxillary teeth was significantly thicker than that of the mandibular teeth. They were (1.39±3.44) mm and (1.01±0.31) mm, respectively (P<0.001). The mean gingival thickness of MillerI, II and III degree gingival recession teeth were (1.15±0.34) mm, (0.83±0.17) mm and (1.26±0.56) mm, respectively, without statistically significant difference (P=0.205). The gingival thickness measurement results between CBCT method and direct measurement were without statistically significant difference (P=0.206). CONCLUSION: In the non-molar gingival recession teeth, the cut-off value of gingival thickness to classify thick and thin biotype of Chinese population was 1.1 mm. The average gingival thickness of the maxillary teeth was significantly thicker than that of the mandibular teeth. Besides, CBCT measurement was an accuracy method for evaluating facial gingival thickness.

[Vestibular incision subperiosteal tunnel access with connective tissue graft for the treatment of Miller classI and II gingival recession].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical outcomes of vestibular incision subperiosteal tunnel access (VISTA) with connective tissue graft (CTG) in the treatment of Miller classes I and II localized gingival recession. METHODS: Ten patients with 10 Miller classes I and II localized gingival recessions were enrolled in the study. All defects were equal to or above 2 mm in recession depth. All the patients received treatment with VISTA+CTG. Their clinical parameters, including recession depth (Rec), recession width (RW), keratinized tissue width (KT), clinical attachment loss (CAL), probing depth (PD) were recorded and compared before surgery and 6 months later. The mean root coverage (MRC) and complete root coverage (CRC) were calculated at the end of 6 months. A visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to estimate the patients' discomfort during the operation and during the 2 weeks post-operation. Patient-based aesthetic satisfaction 6 months after surgery was evaluated by a VAS. RESULTS: The mean Rec was (2.65±0.82) mm at baseline, and (0.35±0.58) mm after 6 months. The VISTA+CTG treatment resulted in an improvement of (2.30±0.98) mm in recession depth (P<0.001). MRC was 86.67%±21.94% and CRC reached 70% at the end of 6 months. KT increased (0.90±1.22) mm (P<0.05). Aesthetic satisfaction on the patients' level was 8.30 based on VAS (0=unsatisfied, 10=extremely satisfied). The patients' discomfort during the operation and 2 weeks post operation were 2.40 and 4.30 (0=no pain, 10=extreme pain). Furthermore, clinical outcomes showed no statistically significant difference between the gingival biotypes, and between the teeth positioned in maxillary and in mandibular. CONCLUSION: VISTA+CTG could be an effective treatment for Miller classes I and II localized gingival recession. Clinical outcomes indicated decrease in recession depth and width, and increase in width of keratinized tissue. Patients suffered little pain during the operation and 2 weeks post-operation of healing and accessed good aesthetic satisfaction. VISTA+CTG could be an option for the treatment of Miller classes I and II localized gingival recession.

[Role of vitamin K-dependent protein Gas6 in the expression of endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 and chemokines induced by Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide].

OBJECTIVE: Growth-arrest-specific protein 6 (Gas6) is a vitamin K-dependent protein and involved in cell proliferation, survival, adhesion and migration . Also it has been shown to play an important role in the inflammatory response .The aim of present study was to investigate the role of Gas6 in the process of the expression of adhesion molecules and chemokines of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) induced by Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide(P.g-LPS). METHODS: After up-regulation and down-regulation of the expression of Gas6, the vascular endothelial cells were stimulated with 1 mg/L P.g-LPS for 3 h and 24 h. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction(real-time PCR) was taken to detect the expression of the cell adhesion molecules:intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and E-selectin, as well as chemokines:interleukin-8 (IL-8) and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1). Wound healing assay was taken to observe the migration ability of endothelium cells in different groups. RESULTS: After 3 h of P.g-LPS stimulation, the expression of adhesion molecules and chemokine in the down-regulation group was not significantly different from that in the control group,while in the up-regulation group the decrease of E-selectin, ICAM-1, IL-8 and MCP-1 was 81%±0%, 47%±3%, 76% ± 3%, 26% ± 6% respectively. After 24 h of P.g-LPS stimulation, the expression of adhesion molecules and chemokine in down-regulation group was significantly higher than that in control group (2.06±0.07, 1.99±0.11, 3.14±0.15, 1.84±0.03 flod), while these molecules in the down-regulation group was significantly lower than in the control group (29%±1%, 62%±3%, 69%±1%, 41%±2%). Differences were statistically significant (P<0.01). Wounding healing assay showed that down-regulation of Gas6 enhanced migration ability of endothelial cells while up-regulation of Gas6 weakened this ability,which was consistent with the trend of real-time PCR result. CONCLUSION: Down-regulation of the Gas6 gene enhanced the expression of ICAM-1, E-selectin, IL-8 and MCP-1 in HUVECs after P.g- LPS stimulating, while up-regulaiton of the Gas6 gene weakened the expression of ICAM-1, E-selectin, IL-8 and MCP-1 in HUVECs after P.g-LPS stimulating,suggesting that Gas6 may play a role in the process of endothelial cell adhesion.

[Clinicopathologic and molecular features of cribriform morular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma].

Objective: To investigate the clinicopathologic and molecular features of the rare cribriform morular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (CMV-PTC). Methods: The clinicopathologic data of 10 patients with CMV-PTC were retrospectively reviewed. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was done using LSAB method. DNA sequencing for APC were applied using Sanger method. BRAF V600E mutation was examined using ARMS method. The cytological, morphological, IHC and molecular features were analyzed. Results: All patients were female at an average age of 27 years old. The tumors were mostly located in the right lobe of thyroid. Fine needle aspiration cytology was performed in three patients; two were diagnosed as suspicious for PTC and one as PTC. Nine tumors presented as solitary nodule and two as multiple nodules in both lobes. Infiltration was demonstrated in three cases. The average size was 2.6 cm. The neoplastic cells were arranged in papillary, cribriform, solid and glandular patterns, with rare or without colloid inside the lumen. The number of morula varied, ranging from zero to many. The neoplastic cells were variably enlarged, showing round, oval or spindle shape. Nuclear irregularity was identified as irregular membrane, nuclear grooves or pseudoinclusion, but no typical ground glass feature. Peculiar nuclear clearing could be observed in the morular cells. IHC staining showed the neoplastic cells were negative for thyroglobulin and p63, but positive for TTF1, cytokeratin 19 and estrogen receptor. Diffuse staining with cytokeratin was seen in the neoplastic cells and the morula. Specific cytoplasmic and nuclear staining of ß-catenin was seen in the neoplastic cells but not the morula. Ki-67 proliferation index was 1%-30%. No recurrence or metastasis was observed. One patient was demonstrated to harbor both somatic and germline mutations of the APC gene, who was found to have adenomatous polyposis and her mother died of colonic carcinoma. No BRAF V600E mutation was detected. Conclusions: CMV-PTC is rare and shows atypical cytological and clinicopathological features, and it is easily misdiagnosed.TG, TTF1, ER and ß-catenin are specific IHC markers for CMV-PTC. The morula is negative for cytokeratin 19, in contrast to squamous metaplasia. Although CMV-PTC has indolent clinical behavior, a definite diagnosis is necessary to rule out the possibility of APC gene mutation and related extra-thyroidal neoplasm, such as FAP and Gardner syndrome.

Rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes co-cultured with PBMC increased peripheral CD4+ CXCR5+ ICOS+ T cell numbers.

'Circulating' T follicular helper cells (Tfh), characterized by their surface phenotypes CD4+ chemokine receptor 5 (CXCR5)+ inducible co-stimulatory molecule (ICOS)+ , have been identified as the CD4+ T cell subset specialized in supporting the activation, expansion and differentiation of B cells. Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) are critical in promoting inflammation and cartilage destruction in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and the interaction between FLS and T cells is considered to facilitate FLS activation and T cell recruitment. However, it remains unknown whether RA-FLS co-cultured with activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) has immunoregulatory effects on peripheral Tfh. In the present study, we co-cultured RA-FLS with or without anti-CD3/CD28-stimulated PBMC. The results showed that RA-FLS co-cultured with stimulated PBMC could increase the numbers of CD4+ CXCR5+ ICOS+ T cells of RA PBMC possibly via the production of interleukin (IL)-6, a critical cytokine involved in the differentiation of Tfh cells. We also observed increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in the co-culture system of RA-FLS and PBMC. The percentage of CD4+ CXCR5+ ICOS+ T cells was decreased when ROS production was inhibited by N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), a specific inhibitor which can decrease ROS production. In addition, we showed that the higher levels of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α and IL-1ß in the co-culture system and the blocking of TNF receptor 2 (TNF-R2) and IL-1ß receptor (IL-1ßR) both decreased the numbers of CD4+ CXCR5+ ICOS+ T cells. Our study reveals a novel mechanistic insight into how the interaction of RA-FLS and PBMC participates in the RA pathogenesis, and also provides support for the biologicals application for RA.

[Observation of bone morphology in furcation defects of mandibular molars using cone beam computed tomography].

OBJECTIVE: To observe mesial-distal bone morphology in classes II and III furcation involvements (FI) of mandibular molars using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), to develop a classification system of mesial-distal bone morphology of furcation defects and to observe the intrabony defects on CBCT images. METHODS: Based on the existing CBCT data, the mandibular molars with horizontal bone defects in furcation area were observed. One hundred and seventeen sites of 81 mandibular molars with class II or class III FIclassified on CBCT images were included. The classification system of mesial-distal bone morphology of furcation defects was developed. According to the location of the line drawn from mesial to distal alveolar bone crest (AC-line) of the tooth and bone level under furcation fornix, the bone morphology was classified into three types, including concave type, flat type and protruding type. The concave type was divided into two subtypes according to the location of AC-line and furcation fornix (Fx), which were subtype 1(AC-line coronal or equal to Fx)and subtype 2 (AC-line apical to Fx).The frequency of each type was calculated and analyzed. The intrabony defects was observed on sagittal CBCT images. RESULTS: In the 117 sites with FI, the flat type appeared with the highest rate (64.10%) and the protruding type appeared with the lowest rate (6.84%). The rates of subtype 1 and subtype 2 of concave type were 13.68% and 15.38%, respectively. The rate of subtype1 which was supposed to be beneficial for bone regeneration was 8.96% in class II FI and 20.00% in class III FI. Thirtyone intrabony defects were found among the 117 FI, 29 of which appeared in proximal aspect of the tooth and the left 2 appeared in furcation area. The highest frequency of the intrabony defects was found in subtype 1 of concave type. CONCLUSION: The classification of mesial-distal bone morphology on CBCT images may be helpful for clinicians to make accurate treatment plan before surgery and could be used in future studies to understand the influence of bone morphology on regenerative therapy for furcation defects.

[Combination of periodontal, orthodontic and endodontic therapy in upper anterior teeth with hopeless prognosis and long-time follow-up: a case report].

It is complicated to decide the treatment plan of hopeless anterior teeth in esthetic zone due to severe periodontitis, periodontal-endodontic combined lesion or teeth trauma. The optional treatment plan for this kind of teeth includes retention after periodontal treatment, extraction and implant treatment, extraction and prosthodontic treatment and so on. To make an appropriate treatment plan, patients' periodontal conditions, periodontal biotype, local anatomy, esthetic demand, economic condition and social psychological status should be comprehensively considered. A combine of periodontal, endodontic and orthodontic therapy may achieve a good treatment effect in hopeless anterior teeth with severe periodontal destruction, tooth extrusion and occlusal trauma. In this case, a 20-year-old female who presented with symptoms of bleeding on brushing and upper incisors loosening for 1 month came to the Department of Periodontology, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology. The clinical examinations revealed that the patient's right upper incisor had signs of mobility (III°), intrusion of 1-2 mm, and probing depth (PD) of 9-10 mm. The periapical radiograph showed that the alveolar bone of right upper incisor absorbed horizontally to the apex. And the patients showed Angle II° malocclusion with II° overbite in anterior teeth and maxillary protrusion. A diagnosis of aggressive periodontitis and Angle II° malocclusion was made. The treatment of this patient lasts for 5 years which include periodontal initial therapy, orthodontic therapy, guided tissue regeneration (GTR) of right upper incisor and supportive periodontal therapy and the clinical result is fine. A hopeless upper incisor was successfully retained and the longtime clinical condition was stable. The strategy of retention of hopeless upper anterior teeth, the relationship of periodontal treatment and orthodontic treatment, and the indications of periodontal and orthodontic combined therapy were also discussed on the basis of this case. Generally, the positive factors in retention of hopeless teeth includes young age, absence of systemic conditions, strong motivation for maintaining the tooth, single root anatomy, integrated dentition, good response to cause-related therapy, intrabony alveolar bone defect, thick periodontal biotype, and regular supportive periodontal therapy. And in the progress of orthodontic therapy, regular supportive periodontal therapy and good plaque control is extremely important.

[Method for recording tension changes of small pulmonary artery and vein using the isolated vessel tension measurement system].

Objective: To establish a standardized method for isolated pulmonary artery and vein rings with different diameter, pressure and length, which could provide a more scientific method for in vitro study of pulmonary vessel diseases. Methods: Male SD rats were anesthetized, and the right ventricular systolic pressure were measured. Small pulmonary artery and vein rings with 200-400 µm in diameter and 2 mm in length were prepared by dissecting pulmonary arteries and veins. The pulmonary vessel rings were mounted in the organ bath by 2 stainless steel wires with diameter of 40 µm. Then the internal circumference of the vessel rings was increased gradually with 100 µm per step. At the same time the vascular tension was recorded by the Myograph System and Acknowledgement data acquisition system, and subsequently the passive length-tension exponential curve was made. The initial tension of the rings was set, equilibrated for another 30 min, and then stimulated with 60 mmol/L KCl 3 times, and the best contractile reactivity was achieved. The contractile reactivity of pulmonary artery rings and endothelial integrity were detected by exposure to 1 µmol/L phenylephrine(PE) and 10 µmol/L acetylcholine(Ach), while the contractile reactivity of pulmonary vein rings was detected by exposure to 1 µmol/L U46619 and 10 µmol/L papaverine. Results: The contraction and relaxation effects of the pulmonary artery rings reached 0.39 mg and 92% when they were stimulated by 1 µmol/L PE and 10 µmol/L Ach. The contraction and relaxation effects of pulmonary vein rings were up to 0.13 mg and 84% when they were exposed to 1 µmol/L U46619 and 10 µmol/L papaverine, respectively. Conclusion: Pulmonary artery and vein rings with appropriate basal tension and optimal vasodilator activity were prepared, and a standardized method of tension experiment for isolated pulmonary artery and vein rings established.

[A clinical analysis of insulin antibody in type 2 diabetic patients].

This study was conducted to evaluate the relationship between serum insulin levels and the production of insulin antibody (IA) in type 2 diabetes (T2DM). A total of 647 T2DM were included. Among them, 20.9% patients were IA positive, who were elder and had a longer duration, lower BMI, a higher positive rate of glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody(GADAb) and higher serum insulin levels during an insulin secretion test. More patients were treated with insulin in IA positive group than in IA negative group (65.9% vs 41.0%, P=0.000). Fasting serum insulin level was associated with occurrence of IA in all patients (OR=1.02, P=0.001) and insulin treated patients (OR=1.033, P=0.002). The cut-off point of fasting serum insulin level for predicting IA positive was 17.87 mIU/L (sensitivity 55.1%, specificity 89.0%). Exogenous insulin use is associated with the presence of IA. Fasting serum insulin level can be used as a predictor for the production of IA in insulin-treated patients.

Dense WDM transmission at 2 µm enabled by an arrayed waveguide grating.

We show, for the first time, dense WDM (8×20 Gbit/s) transmission at 2 µm enabled by advanced modulation formats (4-ASK Fast-OFDM) and the development of key components, including a new arrayed waveguide grating (AWGr) at 2 µm. The AWGr shows -12.8±1.78 dB of excess loss with an 18-dB extinction ratio and a thermal tunability of 0.108 nm/°C.

Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 1 regulates Porphyromonas gingivalis-induced vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 expression in endothelial cells through NF-κB pathway.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Porphyromonas gingivalis has been shown to actively invade endothelial cells and induce vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1) and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) overexpression. Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 1 (NOD1) is an intracellular pattern recognition reporter, and its involvement in this process was unknown. This study focused on endothelial cells infected with P. gingivalis, the detection of NOD1 expression and the role that NOD1 plays in the upregulation of VCAM-1 and ICAM-1. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The human umbilical vein endothelial cell line (ECV-304) was intruded by P. gingivalis W83, and cells without any treatment were the control group. Expression levels of NOD1, VCAM-1, ICAM-1, phosphorylated P65 between cells with and without treatment on both mRNA and protein levels were compared. Then we examined whether mesodiaminopimelic acid (NOD1 agonist) could increase VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 expression, meanwhile, NOD1 gene silence by RNA interference could reduce VCAM-1, ICAM-1 and phosphorylated P65 release. At last, we examined whether inhibition of NF-κB by Bay117082 could reduce VCAM-1 and ICAM- 1 expression. The mRNA levels were measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction, and protein levels by western blot or electrophoretic mobility shift assays (for phosphorylated P65). RESULTS: P. gingivalis invasion showed significant upregulation of NOD1, VCAM-1 and ICAM-1. NOD1 activation by meso-diaminopimelic acid increased VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 expression, and NOD1 gene silence reduced VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 release markedly. The NF-κB signaling pathway was activated by P. gingivalis, while NOD1 gene silence decreased the activation of NF-κB. Moreover, inhibition of NF-κB reduced VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 expression induced by P. gingivalis in endothelial cells. CONCLUSION: The results revealed that P. gingivalis induced NOD1 overexpression in endothelial cells and that NOD1 played an important role in the process of VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 expression in endothelial cells infected with P. gingivalis through the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Passively Q-switched Nd:YAG/Cr(4+):YAG bonded crystal microchip laser operating at 1112 nm and its application for second-harmonic generation.

A passively Q-switched Nd:YAG/Cr4+:YAG microchip laser operating at 1112 nm is demonstrated. Under a pump power of 5.5 W, a maximum average output power of 623 mW was obtained with T=6% output coupler, corresponding to an optical-to-optical conversion efficiency of 11.3% and a slope efficiency of 19.5%. The minimum pulse width was 2.8 ns, the pulse energy and peak power were 39.3 µJ and 14 kW, respectively. Additionally, based on the 1112 nm laser, a 230 mW 556 nm green-yellow laser was achieved within an LBO crystal.

Relationship between the expression of CES2, UGT1A1, and GUSB in colorectal cancer tissues and aberrant methylation.

Irinotecan (CPT-11) is considered an important drug in the treatment of colorectal cancer, but its continuous administration reduces its sensitivity and influences the curative effect. The metabolism of CPT-11 is mainly controlled by carboxy-lesterase (CES), UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 1A (UGT1A), and ß-glucuronidase (GUSB). Studies to date have shown that methylation acts as an important mechanism for gene expression to suppress the metabolic enzymes of many chemotherapeutics. This study, which selected 99 colorectal cancer patients, 23 of whom had paracancerous tissues and eight of whom had large intestine adenomas, aimed to investigate the correlation between the protein expression of the CPT-11 metabolic enzyme genes CES2, UGT1A1, and GUSB and various clinical pathological parameters of colorectal cancer tissues, as well as the relationship between methylation regulation and the gene expression of CES2, UGT1A1, and GUSB. We used immunohistochemistry staining, methylation-specific PCR, and clinical status to reveal the possible regulatory targets of chemotherapeutic resistance in colorectal cancer and to provide new ideas and countermeasures to reverse anti-cancer drug resistance and chemosensitization. The results showed that the expression of CES2, UGTA1A1, and GUSB varies in colorectal pathology tissues and that the expression of CES2 is somewhat related to tumor staging. This relationship is likely caused by the gene regulation of UGT1A1 and GUSB, and other regulation mechanisms may also be involved. The methylation of the CES2 gene is irrelevant to the morbidity associated with colorectal cancer. The GUSB gene showed no significant differences in methylation, and the hemi-methylation was also positive, the regulating ability of which needs to be verified. The potential role of these genes in the colorectal cancer progression, which may be directly related to the methylation regulation of UGT1A1, requires further research. The promoter of the UGT1A1 gene in colorectal cancer cells is methylated, which is an important mechanism of UGT1A1 gene silencing and can be regarded as the target point of research for CPT-11 drug resistance and control mechanisms for the reversal of drug resistance.

[Investigation of tick - borne Rickettsia in selected areas of Liupanshui City, Guizhou Province in 2023].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prevalence of tick-borne rickettsial infections in selected areas of Liupanshui City, Guizhou Province, 2023, so as to provide insights into the management of tick-borne rickettsioses in the city. METHODS: Ticks were captured from the body surface of bovines and sheep in Gaoxing Village, Dashan Township, Liupanshui City, Guizhou Province during the period between April and June, 2023, and tick species were identified using morphological and molecular biological techniques. In addition, tick-borne Rickettsia was identified using a nested PCR assay, including spotted fever group rickettsiae (SFGR), Coxiella spp., Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp., and Orientia spp., and positive amplified fragments were sequenced and aligned with known sequences accessed in the GenBank database. RESULTS: A total of 200 ticks were collected and all tick species were identified as Rhipicephalus microplus. Nestle PCR assay combined with sequencing identified ticks carrying Candidatus Rickettsia jingxinensis (40.50%), Coxiella burnetii (1.50%), and Coxiella-like endosymbionts (27.00%), and Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp. or Orientsia spp. was not detected. CONCLUSIONS: R. microplus carried Candidatus R. jingxinensis, C. burnetii, and Coxiella-like endosymbionts in selected areas of Liupanshui City, Guizhou Province. Intensified monitoring of tickborne rickettsial infections is needed in livestock and humans to reduce the damages caused by rickettsioses.

[MiR-132-3p negatively regulates CAMTA1 to promote Schwann cell proliferation and migration and alleviates I-125 seeds-induced exacerbation of facial nerve injury in rats].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the regulatory effect of miR-132-3p on calmodulin-binding transcription activator 1 (CAMTA1) and Schwann cell activity in rats with facial nerve injury (FNI) treated with I-125 seeds. METHODS: Rat Schwann cells were irradiated with I-125 seeds and transfected with miR-132-3p mimic, miR-132-3p inhibitor or sh-CAMTA1. The expressions of S100B and ß-tubulin Ⅲ in the cells were detected with immunofluorescence assay, and the expressions of miR-132-3p and CAMTA1 protein were determined using RT-qPCR and Western blotting, respectively. EdU staining and Transwell assay were used to evaluate the changes in cell proliferation and migration ability. In a rat model of FNI, I-125 seeds were implanted into the facial tissues near the facial nerve 2 weeks before modeling, and miR-132-3p mimic was injected subcutaneously in the face after modeling. The pathologies of the facial nerve was assessed by HE, LFB and immunofluorescence staining. The targeting relationship between miR-132-3p and CAMTA1 was verified using StarBase v2.0 database and dual-luciferase reporter assay. RESULTS: Rat Schwann cells showed high expressions of S100B and ß-tubulin Ⅲ. I-125 seeds radiation significantly decreased miR-132-3p expression and repressed proliferation and migration of the cells (P < 0.001). Overexpression of miR-132-3p or CAMTA1 knockdown obviously enhanced proliferation and migration of the Schwann cells, while miR-132-3p knockdown produced the opposite effect. MiR-132-3p negatively regulated CAMTA1 expression. In the rat models of FNI, miR-132-3p injection significantly inhibited CAMTA1 expression and attenuated I-125 seeds-induced exacerbation of FNI. CONCLUSION: Overexpression of miR-132-3p suppresses CAMTA1 expression and promotes Schwann cell proliferation and migration to alleviate I-125 seeds-induced exacerbation of FNI in rats.

Association between Intrinsic Capacity and Sarcopenia in Hospitalized Older Patients.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to clarify the association between intrinsic capacity (IC) and sarcopenia in hospitalized older patients. DESIGN: A cross-sectional study. SETTING: Hospital-based. PARTICIPANTS: This study included 381 inpatients aged ≥ 60 years (225 men and 156 women). MEASUREMENTS: IC was evaluated in five domains defined by the World Health Organization: cognition (Mini-Mental State Examination), locomotion (Short Physical Performance Battery test), vitality (Short-Form Mini Nutritional Assessment), sensory (self-reported hearing and vision) and psychological (5-item Geriatric Depression Scale) capacities. IC composite score (0-5) was calculated based on five domains, with lower scores representing greater IC. Sarcopenia was defined in accordance with the criteria recommended by the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) 2019. Multiple linear and logistic regressions were performed to explore the associations between IC composite score and IC domains with sarcopenia and its defining components. RESULTS: The mean age of 381 patients included was 81.95±8.42 years. Of them, 128 (33.6%) patients had sarcopenia. The median IC composite score was 1 (1, 2). Cognition, locomotion, vitality, sensory and psychological capacities were impaired in 22.6%, 63.5%, 18.9%, 27.3% and 11.3% of patients. Multiple linear regression analyses showed that favorable IC domain scores in cognition, locomotion and vitality were associated with a stronger handgrip strength. A higher vitality score was associated with a greater appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI), and a higher locomotion score was associated with a greater gait speed. The multiple logistic regression analysis showed that only vitality impairment was associated with sarcopenia. A higher IC composite score was associated with higher risks of sarcopenia, as well as low ASMI, handgrip strength and gait speed. CONCLUSION: This study indicated that a more serious impairment of IC was associated with a greater risk of sarcopenia. Vitality was the domain most strongly associated with sarcopenia. IC may be employed to detect and manage sarcopenia.