Long term co-application of biochar and fertilizer could increase soybean yield under continuous cropping: insights from photosynthetic physiology.

BACKGROUND: Photosynthesis is the key to crop yield. The effect of biochar on photosynthetic physiology and soybean yield under continuous cropping is unclear. We conducted a long-term field experiment to investigate the effects of co-application of biochar and fertilizer (BCAF) on these parameters. Five treatments were established: F2 (fertilizer), B1F1 (3 t hm-2 biochar plus fertilizer), B1F2 (3 t hm-2 biochar plus reduced fertilizer), B2F1 (6 t hm-2 biochar plus fertilizer), and B2F2 (6 t hm-2 biochar plus reduced fertilizer). RESULTS: BCAF increased chlorophyll and leaf area, enhancing soybean photosynthesis. The net photosynthetic rate (Pn ), transpiration rate (Tr ), stomatal conductance (Gs ), water use efficiency (WUE) and intercellular carbon dioxide (CO2 ) concentration (Ci ) were enhanced by BCAF. In addition, BCAF improved soybean photosystem II (PSII) photosynthetic performance, driving force, potential photochemical efficiency (Fv /F0 ), and quantum yield of electron transfer (φE0 ). Furthermore, BCAF enhanced the accumulation of photosynthetic products, such as soluble proteins, soluble sugars and sucrose content, resulting in higher leaf dry weight. Consequently, BCAF increased the soybean yield, with the highest increase of 41.54% in B2F1. The correlation analysis revealed positive relationships between soybean yield and chlorophyll, leaf area, maximal quantum yield of PSII (Fv /Fm ), electron transport flux per cross-section at t = 0 (ET0 /CS0 ), trapped energy flux per cross-section at t = 0 (TR0 /CS0 ), composite blade driving force (DFTotal ), and leaf dry weight. CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrated that long-term BCAF enhances soybean photosynthesis under continuous planting, reduces fertilizer use and increases yield. This study reveals a novel way and theory to sustainably increase soybean productivity. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Exposure to High-Altitude Environment Is Associated with Drug Transporters Change: microRNA-873-5p-Mediated Alteration of Function and Expression Levels of Drug Transporters under Hypoxia.

Hypoxia is the main characteristic of a high-altitude environment, affecting drug metabolism. However, so far, the mechanism of microRNA (miRNA) involved in the regulation of drug metabolism and transporters under high-altitude hypoxia is still unclear. This study aims to investigate the functions and expression levels of multidrug resistance protein 1 (MDR1), multidrug resistance-associated protein 2 (MRP2), breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), peptide transport 1 (PEPT1), and organic anion-transporting polypeptides 2B1 (OATP2B1) in rats and colon cancer (Caco-2) cells after exposure to high-altitude hypoxia. The protein and mRNA expression of MDR1, MRP2, BCRP, PEPT1, and OATP2B1 were determined by Western blot and qPCR. The functions of MDR1, MRP2, BCRP, PEPT1, and OATP2B1 were evaluated by determining the effective intestinal permeability and absorption rate constants of their specific substrates in rats under high-altitude hypoxia, and uptake and transport studies were performed on Caco-2 cells. To screen the miRNA associated with hypoxia, Caco-2 cells were examined by high throughput sequencing. We observed that the miR-873-5p was significantly decreased under hypoxia and might target MDR1 and pregnane X receptor (PXR). To clarify whether miR-873-5p regulates MDR1 and PXR under hypoxia, Caco-2 cells were transfected with mimics or inhibitors of miR-873-5p and negative control (NC). The function and expression of drug transporters were found to be significantly increased in rats and Caco-2 cells under hypoxia. We found that miR-873-5p regulated MDR1 and PXR expression. Herein, it is shown that miRNA may affect the expression of drug transporter and nuclear receptor under hypoxia. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This study explores if alterations to the microRNAs (miRNAs), induced by high-altitude hypoxia, can be translated to altered drug transporters. Among miRNAs, which show a significant change in a hypoxic environment, miR-873-5p can act on the multidrug resistance protein 1 (MDR1) gene; however, there are multiple miRNAs that can act on the pregnane X receptor (PXR). This study speculates that the miRNA-PXR-drug transporter axis is important in the physiological disposition of drugs.

MicroRNA-199-3p up-regulation enhances chondrocyte proliferation and inhibits apoptosis in knee osteoarthritis via DNMT3A repression.

AIM: Studies have pivoted on the position of microRNAs (miRNAs) in knee osteoarthritis (KOA) but not the more specific function of miR-199-3p. Thus, this study is to uncover the mechanism of miR-199-3p in KOA. METHODS: Rats KOA models were established by modified Hulth method. miR-199-3p expression was observed in cartilage of KOA rats. The binding sites of miR-199-3p were predicted by bioinformatics analysis and the potential interaction between DNA methyltransferase 3A (DNMT3A) and miR-199-3p was verified by dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. Rats were injected with miR-199-3p agomir or antagomir and DNMT3A siRNA into the knee joint. Inflammatory response factors in serum and cartilage tissues, cell apoptosis, and pathological status of cartilage tissues were detected. Chondrocytes were isolated from KOA cartilages and treated with miR-199-3p mimic or inhibitor and DNMT3A siRNA. Chondrocyte proliferation and apoptosis were detected. RESULTS: miR-199-3p expression was suppressed in cartilage of KOA rats. Dual-luciferase reporter gene assay proved that a miR-199-3p-binding site was located in the 3'UTR of DNMT3A mRNA. Inflammation, chondrocyte apoptosis and cartilage pathological changes were improved by miR-199-3p agomir but aggravated by miR-199-3p antagomir. The effects of miR-199-3p antagomir on KOA rats were partially reversed by DNMT3A siRNA. miR-199-3p mimic or DNMT3A siRNA decreased KOA chondrocytes apoptosis and promoted proliferation. miR-199-3p inhibitor showed the opposite functions to miR-199-3p mimic. The effects of miR-199-3p inhibitor on chondrocytes were reversed by DNMT3A siRNA. CONCLUSION: This study highlights that miR-199-3p up-regulation or down-regulation of DNMT3A induces chondrocyte proliferation and inhibits apoptosis in KOA, which may widen our eyes to treat patients with KOA.

The fate and supply capacity of potassium in biochar used in agriculture.

We used chemical extraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) to study the potassium (K) in biochar prepared from corn straw at different temperatures (300 °C, 500 °C, 700 °C and 900 °C). The characteristics of biochar were analyzed through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and specific surface area analysis. We found that the potassium in biochar can be divided into water soluble potassium, exchangeable potassium, non-exchangeable potassium, and insoluble potassium according to the availability of agricultural potassium. The fate of potassium in straw changed as follows: with increasing pyrolysis temperature, the proportion of the sum of exchangeable and non-exchangeable potassium decreased, and the proportions of insoluble and lost potassium increased. The total, water soluble and exchangeable potassium contents in biochar were highest at 700 °C. The non-exchangeable and insoluble potassium contents were highest at 300 °C and 900 °C, respectively. Kinetics experiments were conducted to determine the different fates of potassium released from biochar at different temperatures; pot experiments were also undertaken. The release of different forms of potassium in biochar at different temperatures is mainly dominated by heterogeneous diffusion. Biochar increased not only the content of different forms of potassium in soil but also the potassium content of soybean stems and leaves. We calculated the potassium supply capacity of biochar by two strategies, measurements of the potassium content in biochar and the conversion rate of potassium in straw during pyrolysis. The most active and efficient potassium supply capacities were 33.60 g·kg-1 and 9.53 g·kg-1 at 700 °C and 300 °C, respectively. Biochar provides readily available (water soluble and exchangeable) potassium and a long-term (non-exchangeable) potassium supply to soil.

Finite element analyses of three minimally invasive fixation techniques for treating Sanders type II intra-articular calcaneal fractures.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Calcaneal Sanders type II or III fractures are highly disabling with significant burden. Surgical treatment modalities include open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) techniques and a variety of minimally invasive surgical (MIS) approaches. ORIF techniques are associated with complications and traditional MIS techniques need extensive intraoperative fluoroscopic procedures. The present study aims to investigate the effects of three different minimally invasive internal fixation (MIIF) techniques used to treat Sanders type II intra-articular calcaneal fractures using finite element analyses. METHODS: A 64-row spiral computed tomography scan was used to observe the calcaneus of a healthy adult. The scanning data were imported into Mimics in a DICOM format. Using a new model of a Sanders type II-B intra-articular calcaneal fracture, three minimally invasive techniques were simulated. Technique A involved fixation using an isolated minimally invasive locking plate; Technique B used a minimally invasive locking plate with one medial support screw; and Technique C simulated a screw fixation technique using four 4.0-mm screws. After simulating a 640-N load on the subtalar facet, the maximum displacement and von Mises stress of fragments and implants were recorded to evaluate the biomechanical stability of different fixation techniques using finite element analyses. RESULTS: After stress loading, the maximum displacements of the fragments and implants were located at the sustentaculum tali and the tip of sustentaculum tali screw, respectively, in the three techniques; however, among the three techniques, Technique B had better results for displacement of both. The maximum von Mises stress on the fragments was < 56 Mpa, and stress on the implants using the three techniques was less than the yield strength, with Technique C having the least stress. CONCLUSION: All three techniques were successful in providing a stable fixation for Sanders type II intra-articular calcaneal fractures, while the minimally invasive calcaneal locking plate with medial support screw fixation approach exhibited greater stability, leading to improved enhancement for the facet fragment; however, screw fixation dispersed the stress more effectively than the other two techniques.

Risk factors for chronic ankle instability after first episode of lateral ankle sprain: A retrospective analysis of 362 cases.

BACKGROUND: Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is a common sequela following an acute lateral ankle sprain (LAS). To treat an acute LAS more effectively and efficiently, it is important to identify patients at substantial risk for developing CAI. This study identifies magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) manifestations for predicting CAI development after a first episode of LAS and explores appropriate clinical indications for ordering MRI scans for these patients. METHODS: All patients with a first-episode LAS who received plain radiograph and MRI scanning within the first 2 weeks after LAS from December 1, 2017 to December 1, 2019 were identified. Data were collected using the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool at final follow-up. Demographic and other related clinical variables, including age, sex, body mass index, and treatment were also recorded. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed successively to identify risk factors for CAI after first-episode LAS. RESULTS: A total 131 out of 362 patients with a mean follow-up of 3.0 ± 0.6 years (mean ± SD; 2.0-4.1 years) developed CAI after first-episode LAS. According to multivariable regression, development of CAI after first-episode LAS was associated with 5 prognostic factors: age (odds ratio (OR) = 0.96, 95% confidence interval (95%CI): 0.93-1.00, p = 0.032); body mass index (OR = 1.09, 95%CI: 1.02-1.17, p = 0.009); posterior talofibular ligament injury (OR = 2.17, 95%CI: 1.05-4.48, p = 0.035); large bone marrow lesion of the talus (OR = 2.69, 95%CI: 1.30-5.58, p = 0.008), and Grade 2 effusion of the tibiotalar joint (OR = 2.61, 95%CI: 1.39-4.89, p = 0.003). When patients had at least 1 positive clinical finding in the 10-m walk test, anterior drawer test, or inversion tilt test, they had a 90.2% sensitivity and 77.4% specificity in terms of detecting at least 1 prognostic factor by MRI. CONCLUSION: MRI scanning is valuable in predicting CAI after first-episode LAS for those patients with at least 1 positive clinical finding in the 10-m walk test, anterior drawer test, and inversion tilt test. Further prospective and large-scale studies are necessary for validation.

Could continuous rice cropping increase soil fertility and rice productivity by rice straw carbonized utilization in cold areas? - A 6-year field-located trial.

Biochar amendment can benefit rice growth, but the long-term effects of rice straw carbonized utilization (RSCU, biochar, and biochar-based fertilizer) on rice production in cold areas are still unclear. Herein, we conducted a field experiment over 6 years with four treatments: F (conventional fertilization) as the control, RB1 (biochar, 3 t·ha-1), RB2 (biochar, 6 t·ha-1), and RBF (biochar-based fertilizer, 0.75 t·ha-1). We found that rice straw biochar significantly improved soil physical properties by reducing soil bulk density, increasing soil porosity and liquid and gas phases ratio, and enhancing soil aggregate stability. RSCU also increased soil fertility by improving soil organic carbon (SOC), active organic carbon, and soil nutrients (N, P, K) and their availability, as indicated by an increase in soil C:N and a decrease in soil N:P. Moreover, biochar increased soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC), microbial biomass nitrogen (MBN), and enzyme activities. As a result, RSCU increased rice yield, which was positively correlated with soil total porosity, total phosphorus, available potassium, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), easily oxidizable carbon (EOC), labile fraction of organic carbon (LFOC), and urease activity. RB2 had the highest rice yield (5.94% higher than F). Our study suggests that RSCU can synergistically improve the rice straw utilization rate, soil fertility, and rice productivity in cold areas.

Platelet-rich plasma, a biomaterial, for the treatment of anterior talofibular ligament in lateral ankle sprain.

Background: Because of the rising prevalence of anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) damage, there is a considerable interest in developing innovative techniques to improve the biological healing response of ATFL. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) includes several growth factors linked to a favorable healing response, however none of the studies involved both quality evaluation and clinical results to evaluate this treatment. Purpose: To determine the clinical results of PRP injections into the ATFL in lateral ankle sprain (LAS) patients, as well as the quality of the ATFL based on radiographic outcomes. Methods: Patients with clinically confirmed grade II LAS for the first time (n = 83) were examined. The clinical outcomes of three types of injection methods were evaluated: none, once within 48 h after the sprain, and once more 4 weeks later after first injection. PRP was injected into the tear site of the ATFL using ultrasound guidance, and all ankles were immobilized for 2 weeks. The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scale and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) were used to assess the results at 2, 6, 8, 24, and 48 weeks of follow-up. The signal/noise ratio (SNR) value of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)-based ATFL signal intensity can disclose ATFL quality. The ATFL SNR results were then assessed 8, 24 and 48 weeks following the first injection to compare ATFL quality. Results: The PRP injection groups outperformed the control group in terms of clinical outcomes, and the two injections group outperformed other groups in terms of pain reduction and functional outcome at 8 weeks. The clinical results of all groups were comparable at 6 and 12 months follow-up. ATFL SNR findings improved significantly across all groups over time. At the same follow-up time, the PRP injection groups outperformed the control group, and the best SNR result showed in the two injections group at the final follow-up. Conclusion: PRP injection helped relieve early symptoms of LAS, although all patients saw a similar development after 6 months. The two PRP injections group produced considerably better clinical results and quality of the ATFL in short-term follow-up.

Regulation of CYP450 and drug transporter mediated by gut microbiota under high-altitude hypoxia.

Hypoxia, an essential feature of high-altitude environments, has a significant effect on drug metabolism. The hypoxia-gut microbiota-CYP450/drug transporter axis is emerging as a vital factor in drug metabolism. However, the mechanisms through which the gut microbiota mediates the regulation of CYP450/drug transporters under high-altitude hypoxia have not been well defined. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms underlying gut microbial changes in response to hypoxia. We compared 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequences of the gut microbiota from plain and hypoxic rats. As a result, we observed an altered gut microbial diversity and composition in rats under hypoxia. Our findings show that dysregulated gut microbiota changes CYP3A1 and MDR1 expressions in high-altitude hypoxic environments. Thus, our study reveals a novel mechanism underlying the functioning of the hypoxia-gut microbiota-CYP450/drug transporter axis.

Application of mixed reality technology in talocalcaneal coalition resection.

Objectives: With positive outcomes recorded, the mixed reality (MR) technology has lately become popular in orthopedic surgery. However, there are few studies that specifically address the utility of MR in talocalcaneal coalitions (TCC) resection. Our goal in this retrospective study is to assess certain data while examining the viability of using MR to treat TCC resection. Methods: Six consecutive patients with TCC diagnosed by computed tomography (CT) for which nonoperative therapy had failed and MR system assisted TCC resection were included in this study from March 2021 to December 2021. The feasibility and accuracy of TCC resection were assessed by post-operation radiography. The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score and visual analog scale (VAS) score were used to assess the recovery condition and pain level pre- and post-operation. Results: The surgeon can accurately resect the TCC according to the preoperatively determined range by superimposing the holographic model with the actual anatomy of the TCC using an MR system. Additionally, no additional x-ray was necessary while operating. Mean follow-up was 10.3 months, with a minimum of 6 months. There is a significant difference between the preoperative AOFAS score of 53.4 ± 3.8 and the 6-month follow-up AOFAS score of 97.3 ± 2.2 (p < 0.05). There is also a significant difference between the preoperative VAS score of 8.1 ± 0.7 and the 6-month follow-up VAS score of 1.7 ± 0.4 (p < 0.05). All individuals had clinical subtalar mobility without stiffness following surgery. Conclusion: While the TCC resection operation is being performed, the application of MR technology is practicable, effective, and radiation-free, giving surgeons satisfactory support.

Changes in the Gut Microbiota of Rats in High-Altitude Hypoxic Environments.

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of high-altitude hypoxic environments on the gut microbiota. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups, namely, the plain, moderate-altitude hypoxic, and high-altitude hypoxic groups. On the 3rd, 7th, 15th, and 30th days of exposure, fecal samples were collected and analyzed via 16S rRNA gene sequencing technology. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) experiments were also performed. The results showed significant differences between the gut microbiota structure and diversity of rats in the high-altitude hypoxic group and those of rats in the other groups. Further, compared with that of rats in the plain group, the gut microbiota of rats in the two hypoxic groups showed the most significant changes on day 7. Furthermore, the gut microbiota of the rats in the FMT groups exhibited changes and became increasingly similar to those of the rats in the hypoxic groups. We also identified the phylum Firmicutes, genus Akkermansia, and genus Lactobacillus as the core microbiota under hypoxic conditions. Phenotypic analysis indicated a decrease in the proportion of aerobic bacteria and an increase in that of anaerobic bacteria, possibly owing to the high-altitude hypoxic environment. Additionally, functional analysis showed significant differences between the different groups with respect to different metabolic pathways, including carbohydrate metabolism, energy metabolism, glycan biosynthesis, and metabolism. These findings indicated significant changes in gut microbiota structure and diversity under high-altitude hypoxia, establishing a foundation for further research on the pathogenesis and development of diseases, as well as drug metabolism, under high-altitude hypoxia. IMPORTANCE In this study, we investigated the effects of high-altitude hypoxic environments with low oxygen levels on the gut microbiota characteristics of rats. We observed that high-altitude hypoxia is an important environmental factor that can affect gut microbiota structure and diversity, thereby affecting homeostasis in the host intestinal environment. These findings provide a basis for further studies on disease initiation and development, as well as drug metabolism, in high-altitude hypoxic environments.

Lateral approach for insertional Achilles tendinitis with Haglund deformity.

Objective: The study aims to investigate the functional outcome of the lateral approach for insertional Achilles tendinitis (IAT) with Haglund deformity. Methods: From January 2016 to September 2019, 14 cases of IAT with Haglund deformity that resisted conservative treatment received surgery in our department. A lateral approach was used to debride the bony and soft tissue and reattach the insertion of the Achilles tendon. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS), American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS), and Victorian Institute of Sport Tendon Study Group-Achilles Tendinopathy score (VISA-A) were used to evaluate clinical outcomes. Result: The mean patient age was 39.57 years at the time of surgery. The mean follow-up was 14.74 months. The mean VAS score significantly decreased from 4.86 ± 0.86 preoperatively to 1.21 ± 1.58 postoperatively (P < 0.001). The mean AOFAS score significantly improved from 66.64 ± 6.23 preoperatively to 90.21 ± 11.50 postoperatively (P < 0.001). The mean preoperative and the last follow-up VISA-A were 66 (range 56.75-69.25) and 86 (range 75.75-97.00) points, respectively (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The lateral approach was effective and safe for IAT with Haglund deformity. Moreover, the mid-term functional outcome was promising. Level of Clinical Evidence: IV.

Robot-assisted percutaneous screw fixation in the treatment of navicular fracture.

Background: Long recovery time, large scar, postoperative swelling and pain are possible side effects of open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) for tarsal navicular fractures. Early exercise instruction is made possible by the use of an intraoperative robot-assisted percutaneous invasive closed reduction internal fixation. The goal of the trial was to determine whether percutaneous screw internal fixation with robot assistance might be used to treat navicular fractures. Methods: 27 patients with navicular fractures had surgical treatment between June 2019 and December 2021. Of those, 20 instances were treated with ORIF, while 7 cases had robot-assisted percutaneous screw internal fixation. At the final follow-up, the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score and the visual analogue scale (VAS) score were compared to determine outcomes and function. Results: Follow-up was obtained in all 27 patients after surgery, with a mean follow-up time of 21.81 months, ranging from 15 to 29 months . In the 7 instances of robot-assisted group, percutaneous guide wire insertion and screw placement only needed one attempt and the depth and position of the implant were both satisfactory. In the ORIF group, there were two patients who sustained cutaneous nerve injuries. The AOFAS score and the VAS score of the group receiving robot-assisted navigation percutaneous screw fixation were 92.25 ± 2.22 and 0.75 ± 0.25 respectively at the last follow-up, while 82.25 ± 7.15 and 0.50 ± 0.29 were the respective values for the ORIF group. Conclusion: Intraoperative robot-assisted percutaneous closed reduction internal fixation for tarsal navicular fractures can accomplish exact localization of fracture site, reduce soft tissue damage and operative time. According to current view, this method offers fewer complications, a faster recovery after surgery, and more patient satisfaction.

[Arthroscopic treatment of ankle instability combined with anteromedial impingement syndrome].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the surgical skills and clinical curative results of arthroscopic treatment of ankle instability combined with anteromedial impingement syndrome. METHODS: From February 2019 to August 2020, 13 patients with ankle instability combined with anteromedial impingement were retrospectively analyzed. There were 10 males and 3 females with age of (40.0±15.1) years old. The course of disease was(44.1±33.2) months. All patients had history of ankle sprain. MRI showed the injury of anterior talofibular ligament. All patients had anteromedial pain and pressing pain when ankle dorsiflexion. All patients were treated with ankle debridement and Brostr?m-Gould surgery under ankle arthroscopic. Postoperative results were evaluated by VAS(visual analogue scale) and AOFAS-AH(American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot scale, AOFAS-AH). RESULTS: All 13 patients completed the surgery successfully with an operative time of 60 to 90 minutes. All the surgical incisions healed by first intention, and no complications such as incision infection, skin necrosis and neurovascular injury. Follow-up time was (18.1±4.7) months. At the latest follow-up, the VAS score was 1.2±1.1, which was significantly lower than the preoperative score 4.8±1.5 (P<0.05);the AOFAS-AH score 94.2±5.1 was significantly higher than the preoperative score 65.5±11.5 (P<0.05). The AOFAS-AH score at the final follow-up ranged from 84 to 100. All patients walked with normal gait without ankle instability or impingement recurrence. CONCLUSION: Ankle anteromedial impingement syndrome combined with ankle instability is easy to be ignored clinically. Such kind of anteromedial impingement syndrome is mostly related to osteophyte at dorsal medial talar neck. Arthroscopic treatment of ankle instability combined with anteromedial impingement syndrome has satisfactory curative effect with safety and minimal injury.

[Early efficacy analysis of minimally invasive Chevron-Akin osteotomy for the treatment of mild to moderate hallus valgus].

OBJECTIVE: To explore early efficacy of minimally invasive Chevron Akin(MICA) osteotomy for the treatment of mild to moderate hallux valgus. METHODS: From June 2019 to April 2021, a total of 26 patients (29 feet) with mild to moderate hallux valgus, including 1 male and 25 females aged from 19 to 78 years old with an average of(38.3±19.5) years old, were treated with MICA. Preoperative and postoperative hallux valgus angle(HVA), intermetatarsal angle(IMA) and shortening of the first metatarsal were observed and compared. American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) forefoot scoring system and visual analogue scale (VAS) were applied to evaluate clinical outcome at the final follow-up, and complications were also recorded. RESULTS: All patients obtained followed up from 12 to 33 months with an average of(19.6±5.1) months. HVA and IMA was improved from (32.3±6.6)° and (11.7±3.2)° pre-operatively to (13.0±5.3)° and (6.1±3.2)° post-operatively, respectively, which had a significant difference (P<0.01). The average shortening of the first metatarsal was (2.7±1.1) mm. AOFAS and VAS was improved from (55.7±7.4) and (6.5±1.5) preoperatively and to (88.5±7.9) and (0.7±0.4) respectively at the final follow-up, which also had a significant difference(P<0.01). According to AOFAS score, 15 feet achieved an excellent result, 11 good and 3 moderate. CONCLUSION: MICA osteotomy is a safe and reliable surgical technique for mild to moderate hallux valgus with advantages of minimally invasive, rapid recovery, low complication rate and an effect improvement of hallux valgus deformity.

A Decade's Review of miRNA: A Center of Transcriptional Regulation of Drugmetabolizing Enzymes and Transporters under Hypoxia.

BACKGROUND: Hypoxia has a negative effect on the cardiovascular system, nervous system, and metabolism, which contributes to potential changes in drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME). However, hypoxia can also alter the expression of microRNA (miRNA), thereby regulating drug-metabolizing enzymes, transporters, and ADME genes, such as hypoxia-inducible factor, inflammatory cytokine, nuclear receptor, etc. Therefore, it is crucial to study the role of miRNA in the regulation of drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters under hypoxia. METHODS: A systematic review of published studies was carried out to investigate the role of miRNA in the regulation of drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters under hypoxia. Data and information on expression changes in miRNA, drug-metabolizing enzymes, and transporters under hypoxia were analyzed and summarized. RESULTS: Hypoxia can up or down-regulate the expression of miRNA. The effect of hypoxia on Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) is still a subject of debate. The widespread belief is that hypoxia decreased the activity and expression of CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP2E1, and CYP3A1 and increased those of CYP3A6 and CYP2D1 in rats. Hypoxia increased the expression of a multidrug resistance-associated protein, breast cancer resistance protein, peptide transporter, organic cation transporter, and organic anion transporter. miRNA negatively regulated the expression of drugmetabolizing enzymes and transporters. CONCLUSION: The findings of this review indicated that miRNA plays a key role in the expression changes of drugmetabolizing enzymes and transporters under hypoxia.

Biochar can improve biological nitrogen fixation by altering the root growth strategy of soybean in Albic soil.

Albic soil is a low-yielding soil that is widely distributed in Northeast China. The high viscosity and acidity and the lack of nutrients in the Albic layer limit the growth of crop. In our previous studies, we found that applying biochar as a soil amendment could improve the properties of Albic soil and promote soybean growth. Increases in the nitrogen contents of the soil and the soybeans were key aspects of these improvements. Soybean is a nitrogen-fixing crop, the increase in nitrogen in the Albic soil may have been due to an improvement in biological nitrogen fixation by the soybean with biochar amendment, but the function mechanism was still uncertain. We hypothesized that biochar could improve biological nitrogen fixation of soybean by affecting soybean root growth in the Albic soil. Therefore, we conducted pot experiments with five treatment levels (0, 10, 20, 30, and 40 g·kg-1 biochar) for two years to study how biochar affects the root growth strategy and biological nitrogen fixation of soybean based on its root structure and root nutrient acquisition ability at different stages. The soybean root structure and activity indexes, nodulation ability and nitrogen uptake were measured at different growth stages; in the second year, at the late seed-filling stage, the stable 15N isotope method was used to elucidate the biological nitrogen fixation process. Regarding root structure at the pod-setting stage, biochar resulted in increases in root length density, specific root length, root diameter and specific tip density but a decrease in root tissue mass density at the pod-setting stage. Biochar improved root nutrient acquisition by increasing root activity, root tip number and root-bleeding sap amount. The change in root growth strategy contributed to the promotion of biological nitrogen fixation by the rhizobia that live symbiotically with soybean, thereby increasing crop yield.

[Surgical treatment of tarsometatarsal joint complex injury].

OBJECTIVE: To report the outcome of surgical treatment of tarsometatarsal joint complex injury. METHODS: In the period from January 2003 to December 2008, 167 cases of closed tarsometatarsal joint injury were treated, including 35 cases of tarsometatarsal joint complex injury. Diagnosis was made by X-ray examination or/and CT scan. Either close or open reduction was performed and followed by internal fixation with screw or/and plate. X-ray examination was done in the regular follow-up and functional evaluation was carried out by AOFAS midfoot score system. RESULTS: In this series 135 cases got a mean follow-up of 48 months, ranging from 12 to 75 months. Therein the 26 cases of tarsometatarsal joint complex injury had a mean postoperative AOFAS midfoot score of 67 (ranging from 48 to 75), and secondary post-traumatic arthritis in 16 cases, 12 of which had arthrodesis as a result of severe pain. The 109 cases of pure tarsometatarsal joint injury had a mean postoperative AOFAS midfoot score of 82 (ranging from 70 to 95), and secondary post-traumatic arthritis in 17 cases, only 5 of which had arthrodesis finally. Those cases of pure tarsometatarsal joint injury treated by close reduction and internal fixation with percutaneous screw got a mean postoperative AOFAS midfoot score of 87 (ranging from 82 to 95), demonstrating a significant deference (t = 2.651, P < 0.05) when compared with that of metatarsal joint complex injury. CONCLUSION: The tarsometatarsal joint complex injury has a prognosis inferior to that of the pure tarsometatarsal joint injury, and the keys to its successful treatment are appropriate diagnosis, anatomical reduction and secure fixation of all the components of the complex.

DDX11-AS1 contributes to osteosarcoma progression via stabilizing DDX11.

Increasing evidence has uncovered that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play extremely important roles in numerous steps of gene regulation concerning the progression of tumors. Defined as a kind of lncRNA, DDX11-AS1 has been considered to be closely related to the tumorigenesis of malignancies. Nevertheless, the underlying regulatory role of it in osteosarcoma remains to be analyzed and elucidated. In this research, a dramatically upregulated expression of DDX11-AS1 was detected in osteosarcoma cells. Loss-of-function assays revealed that decreased expression of DDX11-AS1 impaired osteosarcoma cell proliferation, metastasis as well as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Afterwards, molecular mechanism tests validated that DDX11-AS1 could sponge miR-873-5p to upregulate DDX11 expression in osteosarcoma. Additionally, functional tests delineated that upregulation of miR-873-5p inhibited cell proliferation, metastasis as well as EMT process in osteosarcoma progression. Further, DDX11-AS1 was verified to regulate the mRNA stability of DDX11 through binding with IGF2BP2 in osteosarcoma. Final rescue tests in vitro and in vivo further elucidated that DDX11 overexpression could reversed the DDX11-AS1 downregulation-mediated effect on osteosarcoma progression. To sum up, DDX11-AS1 contributes to osteosarcoma progression via stabilizing DDX11.

Effects of Notch/p38MAPK signaling pathway on articular cartilage defect recovery by BMSCs tissue based on the rabbit articular cartilage defect models.

OBJECTIVE: The objective is to clarify the effects of Notch/p38MAPK signaling pathway on articular cartilage defect recovery by BMSCs tissue and provide a basis for clinical treatments of articular cartilage defects. METHODS: A total of 96 healthy male rabbits (weighed 1.5-2.0 kg) that were fully-grown were selected and grouped as the no-treatment group, the model group, and the treatment group in a random manner. Each group included 32 rabbits in total. The no-treatment group was fed without any interventions. The model group and the treatment group were constructed into rabbit knee-joint articular cartilage defect models. In addition, rabbits in the treatment group were given intervention treatments with Notch inhibitor (DAPT) combined with p38MAPK inhibitor (SB203580). The general conditions of rabbits in each group and the conditions of the stained articular cartilage tissue samples were observed, the proliferation of chondrocytes of rabbits in each group was compared. RESULTS: (1) After drug interventions, in contrast to the rabbits in the model group, the general conditions and the chondrocyte recovering situations of rabbits in the treatment group were obviously improved; (2) 8 weeks after model construction, the articular cartilage empty bone lacuna rate of rabbits in the treatment group was (12.13 ± 1.81)%, which was obviously lower than the synchronous (21.55 ± 3.07)% articular cartilage empty bone lacuna rate of rabbits in the model group, and there was a statistical significance in the differences (P < 0.05); (3) the absorbance value (OD value) of chondrocytes in the treatment group was (0.34 ± 0.015), which was obviously higher than the (0.10 ± 0.020) OD value of chondrocytes in the model group, and there was a statistical significance in the differences (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The inhibition of Notch/p38MAPK signaling pathway can promote the recovery of articular cartilage by BMSCs tissue, accelerate the proliferation of chondrocytes, and contribute to the recovery of knee-joint injuries in rabbits, which provides a reliable basis for clinical treatments of articular cartilage defects.