Highly selective and sensitive immunoassays for flurogestone acetate analysis in goat milk: From rational hapten design and antibody production to assay development.

The preparation of high specificity and affinity antibodies is challenging due to limited information on characteristic groups of haptens in traditional design strategy. In this study, we first predicted characteristic groups of flurogestone acetate (FGA) using quantitative analysis of molecular surface combined with atomic charge distribution. Subsequently, FGA haptens were rationally designed to expose these identified characteristic groups fully. As a result, seven monoclonal antibodies were obtained with satisfactory performance, exhibiting IC50 values from 0.17 to 0.45 µg/L and negligible cross-reactivities below 1% to other 18 hormones. The antibody recognition mechanism further confirmed hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions involving predicted FGA characteristic groups and specific amino acids in the antibodies contributed to their high specificity and affinity. Finally, one selective and sensitive ic-ELISA was developed for FGA determination with a detection limit as low as 0.12 µg/L, providing an efficient tool for timely monitoring of FGA in goat milk samples.

Integrated machine learning-driven disulfidptosis profiling: CYFIP1 and EMILIN1 as therapeutic nodes in neuroblastoma.

BACKGROUND: Neuroblastoma (NB), a prevalent pediatric solid tumor, presents formidable challenges due to its high malignancy and intricate pathogenesis. The role of disulfidptosis, a novel form of programmed cell death, remains poorly understood in the context of NB. METHODS: Gaussian mixture model (GMM)-identified disulfidptosis-related molecular subtypes in NB, differential gene analysis, survival analysis, and gene set variation analysis were conducted subsequently. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) selected modular genes most relevant to the disulfidptosis core pathways. Integration of machine learning approaches revealed the combination of the Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and Random Survival Forest (RSF) provided optimal dimensionality reduction of the modular genes. The resulting model was validated, and a nomogram assessed disulfidptosis characteristics in NB. Core genes were filtered and subjected to tumor phenotype and disulfidptosis-related experiments. RESULTS: GMM clustering revealed three distinct subtypes with diverse prognoses, showing significant variations in glucose metabolism, cytoskeletal structure, and tumor-related pathways. WGCNA highlighted the red module of genes highly correlated with disulfide isomerase activity, cytoskeleton formation, and glucose metabolism. The LASSO and RSF combination yielded the most accurate and stable prognostic model, with a significantly worse prognosis for high-scoring patients. Cytological experiments targeting core genes (CYFIP1, EMILIN1) revealed decreased cell proliferation, migration, invasion abilities, and evident cytoskeletal deformation upon core gene knockdown. CONCLUSIONS: This study showcases the utility of disulfidptosis-related gene scores for predicting prognosis and molecular subtypes of NB. The identified core genes, CYFIP1 and EMILIN1, hold promise as potential therapeutic targets and diagnostic markers for NB.

miR-375-3p targets YWHAB to attenuate intestine injury in neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis.

PURPOSE: Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a significant contributor to neonatal mortality. This study aimed to investigate the role of high levels of miR-375-3p in breast milk in the development of NEC and elucidate its mechanism. METHODS: Differential expression of miR-375-3p in the intestines of breast-fed and formula-fed mice was confirmed using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). NEC mice models were established, and intestinal injury was assessed using HE staining. RT-PCR and Western blot were conducted to examine the expression of miR-375-3p, tyrosine 3-monooxygenase/tryptophan 5-monooxygenase activation protein ß (YWHAB), as well as the inflammatory in IEC-6 cells, and intestinal tissues obtained from NEC mice and patients. Flow cytometry and cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) were employed to elucidate the impact of miR-375-3p and YWHAB on cell apoptosis and proliferation. RESULTS: Breastfeeding increases miR-375-3p expression in the intestines. The expression of miR-375-3p in NEC intestinal tissues exhibited a significant decrease compared to the healthy group. Additionally, the expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) was higher in the NEC group compared to the control group. Down-regulation of miR-375-3p inhibited IEC-6 cell proliferation, increased apoptosis, and elevated secretion of inflammatory factors. Bioinformatics revealed that YWHAB may be a target of miR-375-3p. RT-PCR and Western blot indicated a down-regulation of YWHAB expression in intestines of NEC patients and mice. Furthermore, YWHAB was found to be positively connected with miR-375-3p. Knockdown miR-375-3p down-regulated YWHAB expression in cells. Inhibition of YWHAB exhibited similar effects to miR-375-3p in IEC-6 cells. YWHAB plasmid partially reverse cellular functional impairment induced by miR-375-3p knockdown. CONCLUSIONS: Breastfeeding elevated miR-375-3p expression in intestines in neonatal mice. MiR-375-3p leads to a decrease in apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells, an increase in cell proliferation, and a concomitant reduction in the expression of inflammatory factors partly through targeting YWHAB.

Metabolomics reveal root differential metabolites of different root-type alfalfa under drought stress.

Introduction: Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is the favored premium feed ingredient in animal husbandry production which is in serious jeopardy due to soil moisture shortages. It is largely unknown how different root types of alfalfa respond to arid-induced stress in terms of metabolites and phytohormones. Methods: Therefore, rhizomatous rooted M. sativa 'Qingshui' (or QS), tap-rooted M. sativa 'Longdong' (or LD), and creeping rooted M. varia 'Gannong No. 4' (or GN) were investigated to identify metabolites and phytohormones responses to drought conditions. Results: We found 164, 270, and 68 significantly upregulated differential metabolites were categorized into 35, 38, and 34 metabolic pathways in QS, LD, and GN within aridity stress, respectively. Amino acids, organic acids, sugars, and alkaloids were the four categories of primary differential metabolites detected, which include 6-gingerol, salicylic acid (SA), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), gibberellin A4 (GA4), abscisic acid (ABA), trans-cinnamic acid, sucrose, L-phenylalanine, L-tyrosine, succinic acid, and nicotinic acid and so on, turns out these metabolites are essential for the resistance of three root-type alfalfa to aridity coercing. Discussion: The plant hormone signal transduction (PST) pathway was dramatically enriched after drought stress. IAA and ABA were significantly accumulated in the metabolites, indicating that they play vital roles in the response of three root types of alfalfa to water stress, and QS and LD exhibit stronger tolerance than GN under drought stress.

The predictive role of the nomogram based on clinical characteristics and thromboelastography markers for rebleeding after hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage.

Objectives: Rebleeding after hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage is a common and serious postoperative complication in neurosurgery, with high mortality and mental disability rates. The aim of this study was to establish a nomogram to analyze the role of thromboelastography in predicting rebleeding after hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage. Basic methods: We selected 375 patients with hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage who underwent surgical treatment in Yuebei People's Hospital of Shaoguan City, Guangdong Province from May 2018 to August 2022, and retrospectively analyzed the relevant data of hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage patients (including general data and clinical thromboelastography data), and analyzed the factors and thromboelastography parameters that affect rebleeding after surgery (45 cases, defined as re-examination of head CT within 72 h after surgery showed that the hematoma in the surgical area exceeded 20 ml). Main results: Time from symptom onset to surgery, taking antiplatelet drugs, taking anticoagulant drugs, diabetes mellitus, difficulty in hemostasis during surgery, R value and EPL value in thromboelastography were risk factors for rebleeding after hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage (P < 0.05). Logistic regression was used to determine the independent risk factors, and based on these risk factors, a nomogram was established and internally validated using a bootstrap method. ROC curve analysis showed that the nomogram model had high diagnostic value for rebleeding after hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage, with AUC of 0.7314. The calibration curve of the nomogram showed good consistency between the predicted probabilities and the observed values. The decision curve analysis and clinical impact curve also revealed the potential clinical usefulness of the nomogram. Conclusions: The nomogram based on clinical characteristics and thromboelastography markers may be useful for predicting rebleeding after hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage.

Advances in Salmonella-mediated targeted tumor therapy / 药学学报

italic>Salmonella has emerged as a promising tumor-targeting strategy in recent years due to its good tumor targeting ability and certain safety. In order to further optimize its therapeutic effect, scientists have tried to modify Salmonella, including its attenuation and drug loading. This paper summarizes the mechanism and research progress of Salmonella-mediated targeted tumor therapy, and introduces the strategies and related progress of its modification and optimization. At the same time, the advantages, current challenges and future development directions of Salmonella-mediated tumor therapy are summarized.

Randomized， Open， Parallel Controlled， Multi-center Study for Efficacy and Safety of Lianhua Qingke Tablets in Treatment of Acute Bronchitis in Children with Syndrome of Phlegm-heat Obstructing Lung / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy and safety of Lianhua Qingke tablets in the treatment of acute bronchitis in children with the syndrome of phlegm-heat obstructing lung. MethodA randomized， open， parallel controlled， and multi-center clinical study was conduted. Children with acute bronchitis （syndrome of phlegm-heat obstructing lung） were randomly assigned to an observation group and a control group. The control group received routine basic treatment， and the observation group was treated with Lianhua Qingke Tablets on the basis of routine basic treatment. After 7 days of treatment， the clinical efficacy， TCM efficacy， time to symptom disappearance， time to cough disappearance， and clinical safety were compared between the two groups. ResultA total of 248 children were included （124 in the observation group and 124 in the control group）. After 7 days of treatment， the total response rate in terms of clinical efficacy in the observation group was 96.8% （120/124）， which was higher than that （90.3%， 112/124） in the control group （Z=-5.034， P<0.01）. The total response rate in terms of TCM syndrome in the observation group was 97.6% （121/124）， which was higher than that （93.5%， 116/124） in the control group （χ2=-5.326， P<0.01）. The scores of physical signs and TCM symptoms in the observation group were lower than those in the control group at the time of taking medicine for 3 days and 7 days （P<0.01）. The time to symptom disappearance and the time to cough disappearance in the observation group were shorter than those in the control group （P<0.01）. Drug-related adverse reactions occurred in neither group. ConclusionLianhua Qingke tablets demonstrate a definite effect on acute bronchitis in children with the syndrome of phlegm-heat blocking lung. The tablets can significantly shorten the course of disease and relieve cough and TCM symptoms， with high safety， which is worthy of clinical application and promotion.

Research progress of Parkin protein regulating mitochondrial homeostasis through ubiquitination in cardiovascular diseases / 中国药理学通报

In addition to providing energy for cells, mitochondria also participate in calcium homeostasis, cell information transfer, cell apoptosis, cell growth and differentiation. Therefore, maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis is very crucial for the body to carry out normal life activities. Ubiquitination, a post-translational modification of proteins, is involved in various physiological and pathological processes of cells by regulating mitochondrial homeostasis. However, the mechanism by which ubiquitination regulates mitochondrial homeostasis has not been summarized, especially the effect of Parkin protein on cardiovascular diseases. In this paper, the specific mechanism of mitochondrial homeostasis regulated by ubiquitination of Parkin protein is discussed, and the influence of mitochondrial homeostasis imbalance on cardiovascular diseases is reviewed, with a view to providing potential therapeutic strategies for the clinical treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

Establishment and genotype identification of hepatic stellate cell-specific Grk2 gene knockout mouse model / 中国药理学通报

Aim To establish a stable hepatic stellate cell ( HSC ) -specific G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 ( GRK2 ) knockout mice and provide the important animal model for further studying the biological function of GRK2 in HSC. Methods The loxP-labeled Grk2 gene mouse (Grk2

Study on injectable chitosan hydrogel with tendon-derived stem cells for enhancing rotator cuff tendon-to-bone healing / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the effect of chitosan (CS) hydrogel loaded with tendon-derived stem cells (TDSCs; hereinafter referred to as TDSCs/CS hydrogel) on tendon-to-bone healing after rotator cuff repair in rabbits.@*METHODS@#TDSCs were isolated from the rotator cuff tissue of 3 adult New Zealand white rabbits by Henderson step-by-step enzymatic digestion method and identified by multidirectional differentiation and flow cytometry. The 3rd generation TDSCs were encapsulated in CS to construct TDSCs/CS hydrogel. The cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) assay was used to detect the proliferation of TDSCs in the hydrogel after 1-5 days of culture in vitro, and cell compatibility of TDSCs/CS hydrogel was evaluated by using TDSCs alone as control. Another 36 adult New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into 3 groups ( n=12): rotator cuff repair group (control group), rotator cuff repair+CS hydrogel injection group (CS group), and rotator cuff repair+TDSCs/CS hydrogel injection group (TDSCs/CS group). After establishing the rotator cuff repair models, the corresponding hydrogel was injected into the tendon-to-bone interface in the CS group and TDSCs/CS group, and no other treatment was performed in the control group. The general condition of the animals was observed after operation. At 4 and 8 weeks, real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) was used to detect the relative expressions of tendon forming related genes (tenomodulin, scleraxis), chondrogenesis related genes (aggrecan, sex determining region Y-related high mobility group-box gene 9), and osteogenesis related genes (alkaline phosphatase, Runt-related transcription factor 2) at the tendon-to-bone interface. At 8 weeks, HE and Masson staining were used to observe the histological changes, and the biomechanical test was used to evaluate the ultimate load and the failure site of the repaired rotator cuff to evaluate the tendon-to-bone healing and biomechanical properties.@*RESULTS@#CCK-8 assay showed that the CS hydrogel could promote the proliferation of TDSCs ( P<0.05). qPCR results showed that the expressions of tendon-to-bone interface related genes were significantly higher in the TDSCs/CS group than in the CS group and control group at 4 and 8 weeks after operation ( P<0.05). Moreover, the expressions of tendon-to-bone interface related genes at 8 weeks after operation were significantly higher than those at 4 weeks after operation in the TDSCs/CS group ( P<0.05). Histological staining showed the clear cartilage tissue and dense and orderly collagen formation at the tendon-to-bone interface in the TDSCs/CS group. The results of semi-quantitative analysis showed that compared with the control group, the number of cells, the proportion of collagen fiber orientation, and the histological score in the TDSCs/CS group increased, the vascularity decreased, showing significant differences ( P<0.05); compared with the CS group, the proportion of collagen fiber orientation and the histological score in the TDSCs/CS group significantly increased ( P<0.05), while there was no significant difference in the number of cells and vascularity ( P>0.05). All samples in biomechanical testing failed at the repair site during the testing process. The ultimate load of the TDSCs/CS group was significantly higher than that of the control group ( P<0.05), but there was no significant difference compared to the CS group ( P>0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#TDSCs/CS hydrogel can induce cartilage regeneration to promote rotator cuff tendon-to-bone healing.

Circular RNA MTCL1 targets SMAD3 by sponging miR-145-5p for regulation of cell proliferation and migration in Hirschsprung's disease.

BACKGROUND: Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR) is a congenital disorder resulting from abnormal development of the enteric nervous system (ENS). Given the complexity of its pathogenesis, it is important to investigate the role of epigenetic inheritance in its development. As Circ-MTCL1 is abundant in brain tissue and colon tissue, whether it has a significant part in the development of ENS is worth exploring. This study clarifies its role in HSCR and identifies the specific molecular mechanisms involved. METHODS: Diseased and dilated segment colon tissues diagnosed as HSCR were collected for the assessment of gene expression levels using RT-PCR. EdU and CCK-8 assays were adopted to evaluate cell proliferation, and Transwell assay was adopted to assess cell migration. The interaction between Circ-MTCL1, miR-145-5p and SMAD3 was confirmed by dual luciferase reporter gene analysis, RT-PCR and Western blotting. RESULTS: Circ-MTCL1 was down-regulated in the aganglionic colon tissues. The decreased expression of Circ-MTCL1 associated with a reduction in cell migration and proliferation. Bioinformatics analysis and cellular experiments confirmed its role might have been associated with the inhibition of miR-145-5p. MiR-145-5p was up-regulated in HSCR diseased segment colon tissues, exhibiting a negative correlation with Circ-MTCL1. Overexpression of miR-145-5p reversed the inhibition of cell migration and proliferation associated with Circ-MTCL1 down-regulation. The expression of SMAD3 was inhibited by miR-145-5p. The overexpression of SMAD3 eliminated the miR-145-5p-associated inhibition of cell migration and proliferation. Overexpression of miR-145-5p reversed the inhibitory effects of Circ-MTCL1 down-regulation-associated inhibition of cell migration and proliferation, while suppressing SMAD3 expression. Conversely, overexpression of SMAD3 counteracted the miR-145-5p-associated inhibition of cell migration and proliferation. CONCLUSIONS: Circ-MTCL1 may function as a miR-145-5p sponge, regulating the expression of SMAD3 and influencing cell migration and proliferation, thus participating in the development of HSCR.

Preoperative embolization is necessary for large-volume carotid body tumor (≥ 6670 mm3) resection.

BACKGROUND: To investigate the impact of preoperative embolization (p-TAE) on CBT surgical resection and explore the optimal tumor volume for p-TAE of CBT resection. METHODS: This retrospective study reviewed 139 surgically excised CBTs. According to Shamblin classification, tumor volumes, and whether to carry out the p-TAE, the patients were classified into different groups. The demographic, clinical features, and the intraoperative and post-operative information about the patients were retrieved and analyzed from the patient records. RESULTS: A total of 139 CBTs was excised in 130 patients. According to the results of subgroup analysis, there were no significant differences in surgical time, blood loss, adverse events (AEs), and the revascularization when compared with non-embolization group (NEG) for type I, II, III, respectively (all p > 0.05) except for the surgical time in type I (p < 0.05). Then the X-tile program was employed and determine the cutoff point (tumor volume = 6670 mm3) for tumor volumes and blood loss. The average tumor volume was (29,782.37 vs. 31,345.10 mm3, p = 0.65) for embolization group (EG) and NEG. The mean surgical time (208.86 vs. 264.67 min, p > 0.05) and intraoperative blood loss (252.78 vs. 430.00 mL, p < 0.05) were less, and the incidence of revascularization required (35.56 vs. 52.38%, p > 0.05) and total complications (27.78 vs. 57.14%, p < 0.05) were lower in EG when compared with NEG (tumor volume ≥ 6670 mm3). However, the results were not statistically significant when the tumor size was less than 6670 mm3. No surgery-related mortality was observed during the follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative selective embolization of CBT is an effective and safe adjunct for surgical resection, especially for Shamblin class II and III tumors (≥ 6670 mm3).

Magnolol as STAT3 inhibitor for treating multiple sclerosis by restricting Th17 cells.

OBJECTIVE: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune disease in the central nervous system (CNS) associated with Th17 cells. Moreover, STAT3 initiates Th17 cell differentiation and IL-17A expression through facilitating RORγt in MS. Here, we reported that magnolol, isolated from Magnolia officinalis Rehd. Et Wils, was regarded as a candidate for MS treatment verified by both in vitro and in vivo studies. METHODS: In vivo, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model in mice was employed to evaluate the alleviation of magnolol on myeloencephalitis. In vitro, FACS assay was employed to evaluate the effect of magnolol on Th17 and Treg cell differentiation and IL-17A expression; network pharmacology-based study was applied to probe the involved mechanisms; western blotting, immunocytochemistry, and luciferase reporter assay was used to further confirm the regulation of magnolol on JAK/STATs signaling pathway; surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assay and molecular docking were applied to manifest affinity with STAT3 and binding sites; overexpression of STAT3 was employed to verify whether magnolol attenuates IL-17A through STAT3 signaling pathway. RESULTS: In vivo, magnolol alleviated loss of body weight and severity of EAE mice; magnolol improved lesions in spinal cords and attenuated CD45 infiltration, and serum cytokines levels; correspondingly, magnolol focused on inhibiting Th17 differentiation and IL-17A expression in splenocyte of EAE mice; moreover, magnolol selectively inhibited p-STAT3(Y705) and p-STAT4(Y693) of both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in splenocyte of EAE mice. In vitro, magnolol selectively inhibited Th17 differentiation and IL-17A expression without impact on Treg cells; network pharmacology-based study revealed that magnolol perhaps diminished Th17 cell differentiation through regulating STAT family members; western blotting further confirmed that magnolol inhibited p-JAK2(Y1007) and selectively antagonized p-STAT3(Y705) and slightly decreased p-STAT4(Y693); magnolol antagonized both STAT3 nucleus location and transcription activity; magnolol had a high affinity with STAT3 and the specific binding site perhaps to be at SH2 domain; overexpression of STAT3 resulted in failed inhibition of magnolol on IL-17A. CONCLUSION: Magnolol selectively inhibited Th17 differentiation and cytokine expression through selectively blocking of STAT3 resulting in decreased the ratio of Th17/Treg cells for treating MS, suggesting that the potential of magnolol for treating MS as novel STAT3 inhibitor.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor blood levels after electroconvulsive therapy in patients with mental disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Multiple studies have indicated that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) could increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentrations in patients with different mental disorders. The aim of this synthesis was to evaluate post-ECT BDNF concentrations in patients with various mental disorders. METHODS: The Embase, PubMed and Web of Science databases were systematically searched for studies in English comparing BDNF concentrations before and after ECT through 11/2022. We extracted the pertinent information from the included studies and evaluated their quality. The standardized mean difference (SMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated to quantify BDNF concentration differences. RESULTS: In total, 35 studies assessed BDNF concentrations in 868 and 859 patients pre and post-ECT treatment, respectively. Post-ECT-treatment BDNF concentrations were significantly higher than the pretreatment concentrations (Hedges'g = -0.50, 95% CI (-0.70, -0.30), heterogeneity I2 = 74%, p < 0.001). The analysis that combined both ECT responders and non-responders demonstrated a marked increase in total BDNF levels subsequent to ECT treatment (Hedges'g = -0.27, 95% CI (-0.42, -0.11), heterogeneity I2 = 40%, p = 0.0007). CONCLUSION: Irrespective of the effectiveness of ECT, Our study shows that peripheral BDNF concentrations increase significantly after the entire course of ECT, which may enhance our comprehension of the interplay between ECT treatment and BDNF levels. However, BDNF concentrations were not associated with the effectiveness of ECT, and abnormal concentrations of BDNF may be linked to the pathophysiological process of mental illness, necessitating more future research.

Development of epitopephore-based rational hapten design strategy: A combination of theoretical evidence and experimental validation.

Antibody is the key biomolecule that governing the sensitivity and specificity of an immunoassay for chemical compound, also named hapten molecule. Obviously, predication of hapten effectiveness before chemical synthesis is beneficial to boost success, save cost and improve controllability. Here, we proposed and evaluated an epitopephore based rational hapten design (ERHD) to assist antibody production to chemical compound, combining theoretical evidence and then experimental validation by using dinitrocarbanilide (DNC) as a model analyte. Briefly, epitopephores of DNC were firstly generated by HipHop algorithm after features mapping. A homemade drug database also containing reported fragment haptens (HFR) and new designed full hapten (HFU) were constructed, and then was virtually screened by using generated epitopephore followed by structural analysis and visual inspection. The DNC haptens based on the selected hits were further identified by Density Functional Theory before total synthesis. To prove and clarify the usability of the ERHD, two retrieved HFU haptens, one non-retrieved HFU hapten and three non-retrieved HFR haptens were all selected to produce monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for comparison purpose. A maximal 6000-fold increased affinity of mAb from retrieved HFU than HFR was observed, while, non-retrieved HFU failed to produce antibody to DNC. More importantly, mAbs from HFU haptens provided highly specificity to DNC, while, mAbs from HFR haptens could recognize 15 others analogues. We then constructed antibody structure and investigated molecular recognition of the mAbs to DNC, well supporting the rationality of the ERHD. Lastly, an icELISA was developed for DNC with an IC50 value as low as 0.19 ng mL-1 with high specificity, which has never achieved before.

Influence of Light-EmittingDiode-Derived Blue Light Overexposure on Rat Ocular Surface.

We aim to investigate the effect of overexposure to blue light on the rat ocular surface and explore the potential mechanisms. 450 nm light-emitting diode (LED) derived light at 1000 lux was used to irradiate SD rats, 12 hours a day, for consecutive 28 days. Rats in the control group were exposed to 400 lux white light at the same time (in an indoor environment). Tear film breakup time (TBUT), tear volume, and corneal fluorescein staining scores were used to measure the changes to the ocular surface. Expressions of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), inhibitor-κB (I-κB), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were measured by real-time PCR, and the activation of the NF-κB pathway was detected by Western blotting, respectively. Cornea ultrastructure was examined by TEM and optical microscope on day 28. Pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC), an inhibitor of NF-κB signaling pathway, was used to measure the inhibition of blue light injury. The above indexes were detected again when compared with the solvent-treated group. On day 28, compared with day 0, the TBUT of the blue light group was significantly shorter, and the score was significantly higher. The amount of tear secretion changed slightly with time. HE and PAS staining revealed significantly decreased corneal epithelial cell layers and increased goblet cells after 28-day irradiation of blue light. Disarranged stromal cells, vacuoles in the basal nuclei, and decreased desmosomes were also found in the blue light group. Significantly increased levels of NF-κB, IL-6, TNF-α, and the ratio of phosphorylated NF-κB p65 (pNF-κB p65) to total NF-κB p65 implied blue light-induced damage and pathway activation. In addition, PDTC significantly reduced the phosphorylation of NF-κB activated in blue light-treated corneas and alleviated the ocular surface changes caused by blue light. Finally, our results demonstrated that long-term blue light exposure in rats could cause ocular surface changes and manifest as dry eye. Inflammation and activation of the NF-κB pathway may play a role in the pathogenesis.

Multitargeting Strategy Using Tetrathiomolybdate and Lenvatinib: Maximizing Antiangiogenesis Activity in a Preclinical Liver Cancer Model.

PURPOSE: The study aims to investigate the suppressing tumor-promoting effects via multi-anti-angiogenesis activity of the copper chelator (ammonium tetrathiomolybdate, TM) combined with lenvatinib for hepatocellular carcinoma. METHODS: A total of 55 C57 mice were injected subcutaneously with Hepa1-6 hepatoma cell suspensions into the right posterior thigh. After 7 days, the subcutaneous tumors were formed, and the mice were randomly divided into five groups: TM (G1), Lenvatinib (G2), TM+Lenvatinib (G3), Control (G4), and Copper (II) Gluconate (G5). The copper concentrations in serum and tumors were measured at the predetermined time points. After 14 days of treatments, tumor weight and volumes were analyzed, histology was observed, and the expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and microvessel density (MVD) in tumor tissues were measured by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: The median concentration of copper in serum was 401.70, 469.40, and 665.35 µg/L in normal mice, in mice 7 days after implantation, and in the control group, respectively. The intratumoral copper concentrations were higher in G4 mice than in mice 7 days after implantation (P < 0.05). The serum concentration of copper was higher in G5 than all the other groups (P < 0.05; (G1, G2, and G3) vs. G4, P < 0.05; G1 vs. G2, P = 0.013; G2 vs. G3, P = 0.018; G1 vs. G3, P = 0.903. The intratumoral copper concentrations were 608.40, 980.00, 539.31, and 2938.90 µg/L in G1, G2, G3, and G5, respectively. The average tumor weight was 0.55, 0.44, 0.08, 1.37, and 3.11 in G1, G2, G3, G4, and G5, respectively. G5 vs. other groups, P < 0.05; (G1, G2, and G3) vs. G4, P < 0.05; G1 vs. G3, P < 0.05; G2 vs. G3, P < 0.05; G1 vs. G2, P > 0.05. Furthermore, the expression levels of VEGF were significantly lower in G1, G2, and G3 than in G4 and G5 (P < 0.05). A similar trend was observed for MVD in the five groups, but no significant difference was detected in G1 and G2. CONCLUSION: The study showed a significant positive correlation between tumor load and copper. Copper promotes tumor progression, but copper chelating suppresses tumor growth. The combination of TM with lenvatinib reduces tumor angiogenesis and improves the effect of antitumor treatment. These findings underlie the clinical application of combination therapy.

Establishment of risk stratification model for developing cirrhosis in patients with HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B virus infection / 中华检验医学杂志

Objective:To explore the independent predictive factors of cirrhosis in patients with hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-negative chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, and establish a nomogram model based on clinical laboratory data and analyze the predictive value of this model.Methods:The laboratory data of 596 patients with HBeAg-negative chronic HBV infection and 677 patients with hepatitis B cirrhosis, who were hospitalized in the First Hospital of China Medical University from 2011 to 2021, were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were randomly divided into training group ( n=892) and validation group ( n=381) at the ratio of 7∶3. The independent predictive factors of cirrhosis were analyzed by univariate logistic regression, multiple collinearity test and multivariate logistic regression. The nomogram model was established and the prediction value of this model was evaluated. Results:According to multivariate logistic regression analysis, hepatitis B core antibody ( OR=1.492, 95% CI 1.316-1.706), glutamine transpeptidase ( OR=1.015, 95% CI 1.010-1.022), platelet ( OR=0.986, 95% CI 0.982-0.988) and albumin ( OR=0.853, 95% CI 0.824-0.882) were independent predictors of cirrhosis ( P<0.05), and the nomogram was established based on the four indicators. Receiver operating characteristic curves showed that area under the curve of the nomogram was 0.933 (95% CI 0.916-0.950), and that of the validation group was 0.931 (95% CI 0.905-0.956). The calibration curves indicated the nomogram model was highly consistent with the actual outcome. Decision curves and clinical impact curves confirmed that the model had high net benefit and good clinical application performance. Conclusions:Hepatitis B core antibody, glutamine transpeptidase, platelet and albumin are independent predictors of cirrhosis among patients with HBeAg-negative chronic HBV infection. The newly developed nomogram model based on these factors could be used to predict cirrhosis risk in these patients.

Nucleic acid detection and sequence analysis of arboviruses in Xichang / 中华检验医学杂志

Objective:To understand the prevalence of arboviruses in mosquito samples in Xichang City, Sichuan Province, and enrich the data of arbovirus activity and genetic characteristics in southwestern Sichuan Province.Methods:In June 2018, the nucleic acid was extracted from Culex tritaeniorhynchus mosquitoes collected from different pigsties in three villages and suburbs of Xichang City. The specific primers of Yunnan orbivirus, Banna virus, Tibet orbivirus (S7, S10), Flavivirus and alphavirus were used for quantitative polymerase chain reaction examination, and the positive product was cloned for sequencing analysis. Results:A total of 9 012 mosquitoes were collected, of which Cx. tritaeniorhynchus was the dominant species. A number of 88 batches of these mosquitoes were amplified, and 2 strains of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), 7 strains of Banna virus (BAV), 7 strains of Tibet orbivirus (TIBOV) and 1 strain of Yunnan orbivirus virus (YOUV) were detected, respectively. By the results of cluster analysis and evolutionary tree analysis, the 17 newly found virus strains were close to the Yunnan isolates, and 2 JEV strains were located in the GI-b clade. The other 7 strains of BAV were A2 evolutionary clades. Of the 7 TIBOV plants, 6 were located in the same clade. One TOUV was in the same clade as the Yunnan strain. Conclusions:Culex tritaeniorhynchus mosquitoes in Xichang city might carry JEV, BAV, YOUV and TIBOV, among them JEV was GI-b type and BAV was A2 type. The results provide data supporting the detection and analysis of arboviruses in Xichang city.

The 500th case: pain in both hip joints, headache, and diplopia / 中华内科杂志

A male child, aged 5 years and 3 months, was admitted to the Oncology Department with a history of pain in both hip joints, headache, and diplopia lasting for 40 days. Physical examination did not reveal definitive signs or obvious abnormalities in the nervous system. Imaging studies showed only abnormalities in the craniocerebrum and spinal cord. Routine cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis revealed elevation in the total number of white blood cells, mainly mononuclear cells. Biochemical analysis of CSF showed normal glucose and chloride levels, and increased protein concentrations. The possibility of central nervous system (CNS) infection was initially considered. Subsequently, antibacterial and antiviral therapy was administered; however, this treatment was ineffective. Further examination of CSF through immunophenotyping revealed mature B-cell lymphoma with CNS involvement; there were no neoplastic lesions detected elsewhere in the body. Thus, the patient was diagnosed with primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL). Complete remission was achieved after chemotherapy with the CNCL-2017-mature B-cell lymphoma regimen. Thus far, all chemotherapy cycles have been completed, the patient remains in complete remission, and the follow-up is ongoing. Clinicians should pay close attention to PCNSL in children.