Effects of Nogo-A and its receptor on the repair of sciatic nerve injury in rats.

Regeneration of injured peripheral nerves is an extremely complex process. Nogo-A (neurite outgrowth inhibitor-A) inhibits axonal regeneration by interacting with Nogo receptor in the myelin sheath of the central nervous system (CNS). The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Nogo-A and its receptor on the repair of sciatic nerve injury in rats. Sprague-Dawley rats (n=96) were randomly divided into 4 groups: control group (control), sciatic nerve transection group (model), immediate repair group (immediate repair), and delayed repair group (delayed repair). The rats were euthanized 1 week and 6 weeks after operation. The injured end tissues of the spinal cord and sciatic nerve were obtained. The protein expressions of Nogo-A and Nogo-66 receptor (NgR) were detected by immunohistochemistry. The protein expressions of Nogo-A, NgR, and Ras homolog family member A (RhoA) were detected by western blot. At 1 week after operation, the pathological changes in the immediate repaired group were less, and the protein expressions of Nogo-A, NgR, and RhoA in the spinal cord and sciatic nerve tissues were decreased (P<0.05) compared with the model group. After 6 weeks, the pathological changes in the immediate repair group and the delayed repair group were alleviated and the protein expressions decreased (P<0.05). The situation of the immediate repair group was better than that of the delayed repair group. Our data suggest that the expression of Nogo-A and its receptor increased after sciatic nerve injury, indicating that Nogo-A and its receptor play an inhibitory role in the repair process of sciatic nerve injury in rats.

Effects of Nogo-A and its receptor on the repair of sciatic nerve injury in rats

Regeneration of injured peripheral nerves is an extremely complex process. Nogo-A (neurite outgrowth inhibitor-A) inhibits axonal regeneration by interacting with Nogo receptor in the myelin sheath of the central nervous system (CNS). The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Nogo-A and its receptor on the repair of sciatic nerve injury in rats. Sprague-Dawley rats (n=96) were randomly divided into 4 groups: control group (control), sciatic nerve transection group (model), immediate repair group (immediate repair), and delayed repair group (delayed repair). The rats were euthanized 1 week and 6 weeks after operation. The injured end tissues of the spinal cord and sciatic nerve were obtained. The protein expressions of Nogo-A and Nogo-66 receptor (NgR) were detected by immunohistochemistry. The protein expressions of Nogo-A, NgR, and Ras homolog family member A (RhoA) were detected by western blot. At 1 week after operation, the pathological changes in the immediate repaired group were less, and the protein expressions of Nogo-A, NgR, and RhoA in the spinal cord and sciatic nerve tissues were decreased (P<0.05) compared with the model group. After 6 weeks, the pathological changes in the immediate repair group and the delayed repair group were alleviated and the protein expressions decreased (P<0.05). The situation of the immediate repair group was better than that of the delayed repair group. Our data suggest that the expression of Nogo-A and its receptor increased after sciatic nerve injury, indicating that Nogo-A and its receptor play an inhibitory role in the repair process of sciatic nerve injury in rats.

COL6A3 promotes cellular malignancy of osteosarcoma by activating the PI3K/AKT pathway.

OBJECTIVE In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of COL6A3 on cell motility and the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in osteosarcoma. METHODS The relative expression of COL6A3 was achieved from a GEO dataset in osteosarcoma tissue. siRNA technology was applied to decrease the COL6A3 expression in cells, and cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and colony formation analysis were used to examine the cell proliferation potential. Knockdown COL6A3 made the proliferation and colony formation abilities worse than the COL6A3 without interference. Likewise, in contrast to the si-con group, cell invasion and migration were inhibited in the si-COL6A3 group. Moreover, the western blot results suggested that the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway was manipulated by measuring the protein expression of the PI3K/AKT pathway-related markers, due to the COL6A3 inhibition. CONCLUSION COL6A3 plays a crucial role in modulating various aspects of the progression of osteosarcoma, which would provide a potentially effective treatment for osteosarcoma.

COL6A3 promotes cellular malignancy of osteosarcoma by activating the PI3K/AKT pathway

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of COL6A3 on cell motility and the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in osteosarcoma. METHODS The relative expression of COL6A3 was achieved from a GEO dataset in osteosarcoma tissue. siRNA technology was applied to decrease the COL6A3 expression in cells, and cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and colony formation analysis were used to examine the cell proliferation potential. Knockdown COL6A3 made the proliferation and colony formation abilities worse than the COL6A3 without interference. Likewise, in contrast to the si-con group, cell invasion and migration were inhibited in the si-COL6A3 group. Moreover, the western blot results suggested that the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway was manipulated by measuring the protein expression of the PI3K/AKT pathway-related markers, due to the COL6A3 inhibition. CONCLUSION COL6A3 plays a crucial role in modulating various aspects of the progression of osteosarcoma, which would provide a potentially effective treatment for osteosarcoma.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Neste estudo, investigamos a função do COL6A3 na mobilidade celular e na via PI3K/AKT em osteossarcomas. METODOLOGIA A expressão relativa do COL6A3 foi obtida a partir de dados GEO em tecidos de osteossarcoma. O RNA de interferência (siRNA) foi utilizado para reduzir a expressão do COL6A3 nas células, e o teste de contagem de células kit-8 (CCK-8) e a análise de formação de colônias foram realizados para examinar o potencial de proliferação celular. Além disso, o Transwell comprovou os efeitos do si-COL6A3 na invasão celular e migração em células de osteossarcoma. Para medir os níveis de expressão das proteínas e mRNAs, utilizamos transcriptase reversa quantitativa (qRT-PCR) e western blot. RESULTADOS O COL6A3 foi regulado nos tecidos e células do osteossarcoma quando comparado com o controle normal. A redução de COL6A3 reduziu a proliferação e a capacidades de formação de colônias em relação ao COL6A3 sem interferência. Do Mesmo modo, ao contrário do observado no grupo si-con, a invasão e migração celular foram inibidas no grupo si-COL6A3. Além disso, o resultado do western blot sugere que a via PI3K/AKT foi manipulada, medindo a expressão proteica dos marcadores relacionados à PI3K/AKT, devido à inibição do COL6A3. CONCLUSÃO O COL6A3 desempenha um papel crucial na modulação de vários aspectos da progressão do osteossarcoma, o que pode representar um possível tratamento eficaz para a doença.

Reassessing destructive quantum interference in azulene-based devices.

Quantum interference (QI) effects have recently attracted increased interest in electron transport studies of single molecular junctions. Although QI effects have been explained in a variety of molecular devices by different chemical rules, such as orbital-based prediction, the graphical scheme, and cross-conjugated states, recently, experimental and theoretical reports have claimed to have reached a better understanding of QI features. In particular, azulene molecule derivatives present an insightful case study where these simple rules of thumb can fail. Here, we explore the validity of graphical rules and the effects of closed loops in the azulene molecular structure. The electron transport behavior through an azulene core with different moieties (thiol, ethynyl-thiol, phenyl-thiol, and ethynyl-phenyl-thiol) was investigated with first-principles calculations combined with the non-equilibrium Green's function (NEGF) technique. The transmission spectra at zero bias show that the graphical rules are not sufficient to predict and explain the destructive QI effect in these azulene derivatives. Instead, closed-loop diagrams should be taken into account to properly describe the transport properties in those systems, but the presence of a closed-loop does not necessarily lead to the absence of destructive QI in the transmission spectrum. Our results indicate that the destructive QI effect is found when the azulene core is coupled at the 4,7Az-, 5,7Az- and 1,3Az-positions with ethynyl-phenyl-thiol moieties, while no obvious destructive QI effect is observed in the other azulene derivatives, either with the thiol, ethynyl-thiol or phenyl-thiol anchoring groups. We also demonstrated that the I-V curves depend more strongly on anchoring groups than the coupling position.

MODIFIED STOPPA APPROACH FOR PELVIC AND ACETABULAR FRACTURE TREATMENT.

OBJECTIVE: A retrospective review aims to investigate the operative methods and therapeutic effects of the modified Stoppa approach for treating pelvic and acetabular fractures. METHODS: 18 patients with acetabular fracture of the anterior column and pelvic anterior ring fracture underwent surgical treatment using the modified Stoppa approach. Some of the treatment was combined with the iliac fossa approach or rear K-L approach. Fracture reduction and postoperative function were evaluated using the Matta scoring standard and the Majeed scoring system. The Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine system was used to grade the literature review and create graded B recommendations. RESULTS: Incision length was 6-12 cm (mean, 10 cm), operative duration was 50-150 minutes (mean, 85 minutes), and intraoperative blood loss volume was 400-1,000 ml (mean, 500 ml). 18 patients were followed up for 12-36 months post-operation. In the results of X-ray films, 12 cases were anatomical reductions and the remaining cases were satisfactory reductions. According to Majeed standard, 13 patients were excellent and five patients were good. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment using the modified Stoppa approach was suitable for anterior approaches, in which pelvic and acetabular fractures were sufficiently exposed, the fracture was conveniently reduced, less complications occurred, and curative effect was satisfactory. Level of evidence III, Retrospective comparative study.

OBJETIVO: Uma revisão retrospectiva tem como objetivo investigar os métodos operatórios e efeitos terapêuticos da abordagem modificada de Stoppa para o tratamento de fraturas pélvicas e acetabulares. MÉTODOS: 18 pacientes com fratura acetabular da coluna anterior e fratura do anel anterior pélvico foram submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico utilizando a abordagem de Stoppa modificada. Parte do tratamento foi feita em conjunto com a abordagem da fossa ilíaca ou com a abordagem pelo acesso posterior de K-L. A redução da fratura e a função pós-operatória foram avaliadas pelo padrão de pontuação de Matta e o sistema de pontuação de Majeed. O sistema do Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine foi usado para classificar a revisão de literatura e criar as recomendações de grau B. RESULTADOS: O comprimento da incisão foi de 6 a 12 cm (média de 10 cm), a duração da cirurgia foi de 50 a 150 minutos (média de 85 minutos) e o volume de perda sanguínea intraoperatória foi de 400 a 1.000 ml (média de 500 ml). 18 pacientes foram acompanhados por 12-36 meses após a operação. Nos resultados dos filmes radiográficos, 12 casos foram de reduções anatômicas e os demais casos foram de reduções satisfatórias. De acordo com o padrão de Majeed, 13 pacientes foram considerados excelentes e cinco pacientes foram considerados bons. CONCLUSÕES: O tratamento que utilizou a abordagem de Stoppa modificada foi adequado para abordagens anteriores, nas quais as fraturas pélvicas e acetabulares estavam suficientemente expostas, a fratura foi convenientemente reduzida, ocorreram menos complicações e o efeito curativo foi satisfatório. Nível de evidencia III, Estudo retrospectivo comparativo.

Modified stoppa approach for pelvic and acetabular fracture treatment / Stoppa modificada para tratamento de fraturas pélvicas e acetabulares

ABSTRACT Objective: A retrospective review aims to investigate the operative methods and therapeutic effects of the modified Stoppa approach for treating pelvic and acetabular fractures. Methods: 18 patients with acetabular fracture of the anterior column and pelvic anterior ring fracture underwent surgical treatment using the modified Stoppa approach. Some of the treatment was combined with the iliac fossa approach or rear K-L approach. Fracture reduction and postoperative function were evaluated using the Matta scoring standard and the Majeed scoring system. The Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine system was used to grade the literature review and create graded B recommendations. Results: Incision length was 6-12 cm (mean, 10 cm), operative duration was 50-150 minutes (mean, 85 minutes), and intraoperative blood loss volume was 400-1,000 ml (mean, 500 ml). 18 patients were followed up for 12-36 months post-operation. In the results of X-ray films, 12 cases were anatomical reductions and the remaining cases were satisfactory reductions. According to Majeed standard, 13 patients were excellent and five patients were good. Conclusions: Treatment using the modified Stoppa approach was suitable for anterior approaches, in which pelvic and acetabular fractures were sufficiently exposed, the fracture was conveniently reduced, less complications occurred, and curative effect was satisfactory. Level of evidence III, Retrospective comparative study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Uma revisão retrospectiva tem como objetivo investigar os métodos operatórios e efeitos terapêuticos da abordagem modificada de Stoppa para o tratamento de fraturas pélvicas e acetabulares. Métodos: 18 pacientes com fratura acetabular da coluna anterior e fratura do anel anterior pélvico foram submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico utilizando a abordagem de Stoppa modificada. Parte do tratamento foi feita em conjunto com a abordagem da fossa ilíaca ou com a abordagem pelo acesso posterior de K-L. A redução da fratura e a função pós-operatória foram avaliadas pelo padrão de pontuação de Matta e o sistema de pontuação de Majeed. O sistema do Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine foi usado para classificar a revisão de literatura e criar as recomendações de grau B. Resultados: O comprimento da incisão foi de 6 a 12 cm (média de 10 cm), a duração da cirurgia foi de 50 a 150 minutos (média de 85 minutos) e o volume de perda sanguínea intraoperatória foi de 400 a 1.000 ml (média de 500 ml). 18 pacientes foram acompanhados por 12-36 meses após a operação. Nos resultados dos filmes radiográficos, 12 casos foram de reduções anatômicas e os demais casos foram de reduções satisfatórias. De acordo com o padrão de Majeed, 13 pacientes foram considerados excelentes e cinco pacientes foram considerados bons. Conclusões: O tratamento que utilizou a abordagem de Stoppa modificada foi adequado para abordagens anteriores, nas quais as fraturas pélvicas e acetabulares estavam suficientemente expostas, a fratura foi convenientemente reduzida, ocorreram menos complicações e o efeito curativo foi satisfatório. Nível de evidencia III, Estudo retrospectivo comparativo.

The preferred learning styles utilizing VARK among nursing students with bachelor degrees and associate degrees in China

Abstract Objective This study aimed to determine the differences in learning style preferences among bachelor degree nursing students at Central South University and associate degree nursing students at the Vocational Health School in China. Methods This study was a cross-sectional survey using the Chinese version of the VARK questionnaire to assess preferred learning styles: 159 enrolled bachelor degree nursing students and 199 enrolled associate degree nursing students completed the questionnaire with a response rate of 96.8%. Results The bachelor degree nursing students tend to prefer a multimodal learning style (58.49%), which significantly differed from that of associate degree nursing students (45.77%). The kinaesthetic modality was the predominant unimodal learning style among the bachelor degree and associate degree nursing students (18.20% and 33.67%), and the read-write modality was the least popular modality (2.5% and 4.02%). Conclusion There are both differences and similarities between the learning style preferences of bachelor degree and associate degree nursing students. Educational background is one of the most critical factors that influence the learning style preference of nursing students. This finding may be necessary and beneficial for carrying out future curricula reform. In addition, further comprehensive research should be conducted to examine the relationships between learning style preferences and academic performance, as well as learning style preferences and teaching methods.

YMDD motif mutations in chronic hepatitis B antiviral treatment naïve patients: a multi-center study.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the natural prevalence of variants of tyrosine-methionine-aspartic acid-aspartic acid (YMDD) motif in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), and to explore its relation with demographic and clinical features, hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotypes, and HBV DNA levels. METHODS: A total of 1,042 antiviral treatment naïve CHB patients (including with lamivudine [LAM]) in the past year were recruited from outpatient and inpatient departments of six centers from December 2008 to June 2010. YMDD variants were analyzed using the HBV drug resistance line probe assay (Inno-Lipa HBV-DR). HBV genotypes were detected with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) microcosmic nucleic acid cross-ELISA, and HBV deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was quantitated with real-time PCR. All serum samples underwent tests for HBV, HCV, and HDV with ELISA. RESULTS: YMDD variants were detected in 23.3% (243/1042) of CHB patients. YMDD mutation was accompanied by L180M mutation in 154 (76.9%) patients. Both wild-type HBV and YMDD variant HBV were present in 231 of 243 patients. Interestingly, 12 patients had only YIDD and/or YVDD variants without wild YMDD motif. In addition, 27.2% (98/359) of HbeAg-positive patients had YMDD mutations, which was higher than that in HbeAg-negative patients (21.2%, 145/683). The incidence of YMDD varied among patients with different HBV genotypes, but the difference was not significant. Moreover, the incidence of YMDD in patients with high HBV DNA level was significantly higher than that in those with low HBV DNA level. CONCLUSION: Mutation of YMDD motif was detectable at a high rate in CHB patients in this study. The incidence of YMDD may be correlated with HBeAg and HBV DNA level.

YMDD motif mutations in chronic hepatitis B antiviral treatment naïve patients: a multi-center study

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the natural prevalence of variants of tyrosine-methionine-aspartic acid-aspartic acid (YMDD) motif in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), and to explore its relation with demographic and clinical features, hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotypes, and HBV DNA levels. METHODS: A total of 1,042 antiviral treatment naïve CHB patients (including with lamivudine [LAM]) in the past year were recruited from outpatient and inpatient departments of six centers from December 2008 to June 2010. YMDD variants were analyzed using the HBV drug resistance line probe assay (Inno-Lipa HBV-DR). HBV genotypes were detected with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) microcosmic nucleic acid cross-ELISA, and HBV deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was quantitated with real-time PCR. All serum samples underwent tests for HBV, HCV, and HDV with ELISA. RESULTS: YMDD variants were detected in 23.3% (243/1042) of CHB patients. YMDD mutation was accompanied by L180M mutation in 154 (76.9%) patients. Both wild-type HBV and YMDD variant HBV were present in 231 of 243 patients. Interestingly, 12 patients had only YIDD and/or YVDD variants without wild YMDD motif. In addition, 27.2% (98/359) of HbeAg-positive patients had YMDD mutations, which was higher than that in HbeAg-negative patients (21.2%, 145/683). The incidence of YMDD varied among patients with different HBV genotypes, but the difference was not significant. Moreover, the incidence of YMDD in patients with high HBV DNA level was significantly higher than that in those with low HBV DNA level. CONCLUSION: Mutation of YMDD motif was detectable at a high rate in CHB patients in this study. The incidence of YMDD may be correlated with HBeAg and HBV DNA level.