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We examined the separate effect of Portuguese oyster Crassostrea angulata and the interactive effects of oyster and red seaweed Gracilaria lemaneiformis on seawater dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) systems and the air-sea CO2 flux (FCO2) in Daya Bay, southern China. Respiration and calcification rates of oysters were measured and the effects of oyster aquaculture on marine DIC systems were evaluated. The interactive effects on seawater DIC and air-sea FCO2 were examined using mesocosms containing oyster and seaweed assemblages. Results showed populations of C. angulata cultured in Daya Bay sequestered ca. 258 g C m-2 yr-1 for shell formation, whereas the CO2 released due to respiration and calcification was 349 and 153 g C m-2 yr-1, respectively. This indicates that oyster cultivation in Daya Bay is a CO2 generator, favoring the escape of CO2 into the atmosphere. DIC, HCO3- and CO2 concentrations and the partial pressure of CO2 in oyster-seaweed co-cultured mesocosms were significantly lower than the oyster monoculture mesocosm. These results indicated that G. lemaneiformis effectively absorbs the CO2 released by oysters. The negative values of air-sea FCO2 in the co-culture groups represent a CO2 sink from the atmosphere to the sea. These results demonstrated that there could be an interspecies mutual benefit for both C. angulata and G. lemaneiformis in the integrated culture system. Considering that photosynthesis of seaweed is carbon limited, we suggest that the 2 species are co-cultured at a ratio of ca. 4:1 (based on fresh weight) for efficient utilization of DIC in seawater by G. lemaneiformis, and further to increase the ocean CO2 sink.

Weixiong Chen,1,2,* Jianqiang Liang,3,* Shuang He,1,4,5 Qingsong Liang,1,4,5 Wenting Tian,6 Aobo Lu,1 Demin Li,1 Zhicheng Huang,1 Guanyi Wu1,4,5 1College of Basic Medicine, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, 530299, People’s Republic of China; 2School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200093, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Dermatology, the First People’s Hospital of Yulin, Yulin, Guangxi, 537000, People’s Republic of China; 4Key Laboratory for Complementary and Alternative Medicine Experimental Animal Models of Guangxi, Nanning, Guangxi, 530299, People’s Republic of China; 5Guangxi Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine for Treating High-Incidence Infectious Diseases with Integrative Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, 530299, People’s Republic of China; 6College of Pharmacy, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, 530299, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Guanyi Wu, College of Basic Medicine, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, 530299, People’s Republic of China, Email wugy@gxtcmu.edu.cnPurpose: Psoriasis is an immune-related disorder characterized by silver scales, epidermis thickness, and itching. She-Chuang-Si-Wu-Tang (SSWT), a traditional Chinese medicine decoction, has been used clinically for 400 years. Although it benefits psoriasis treatment, the mechanism of action is still unclear. This study explores SSWT’s molecular mechanism in treating psoriasis through network pharmacology analysis and experiments.Methods: We identified relevant SSWT and psoriasis targets using network pharmacology and conducted SSWT quality control with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). A mouse model of psoriasis was established using imiquimod (IMQ), with the drug administered continuously for seven days, spanning an eight-day period. During the experiment, we observed spontaneous scratching behaviors and assessed the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores. At the conclusion of the experiment, we examined skin tissue pathology under an optical microscope and measured epidermal thickness. Additionally, we used enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) to measure interleukin (IL)-23, IL-17A, IL-17F, and interferon (IFN)-γ levels in the mice’s serum and their mRNA expression in the skin. Western blot analysis was conducted to assess protein levels related to signaling pathways.Results: Results indicate that SSWT may target IL-17 signaling pathways and T helper (Th) 17 cell differentiation, as predicted by network pharmacology. SSWT significantly improved the PASI and Baker scores, reduced epidermal thickness, and decreased spontaneous scratching in IMQ-induced mice. Additionally, SSWT treatment significantly lowered the concentrations of inflammatory factors in the serum and skin lesions, as well as mRNA expression levels, compared to the IMQ group. Furthermore, SSWT significantly inhibited the phosphorylation of both the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways.Conclusion: In summary, this study unveiled the potential anti-psoriatic mechanism of SSWT, offering new evidence for its clinical application. Keywords: She-Chuang-Si-Wu-Tang, psoriasis, inflammation, itch, STAT3, MAPK

JiuLing Deng,1,* Jing Liu,1,* WanSheng Chen,2,3,* Qing Liang,1 YuQiong He,2,3 GuangChun Sun1 1Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Fifth People’s Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200240, People’s Republic of China; 2Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Pharmacy, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200003, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: GuangChun Sun, Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Fifth People’s Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200240, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 21 24289464, Email sunguangchun@5thhospital.com YuQiong He, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 21 81886182, Email yuqionghe1993@163.comAbstract: With ever-increasing intensive studies of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), significant progresses have been made. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)/unfolded protein reaction (UPR) is associated with the development and progression of IPF, and targeting ERS/UPR may be beneficial in the treatment of IPF. Natural product is a tremendous source of new drug discovery, and accumulating studies have reported that many natural products show potential therapeutic effects for IPF via modulating one or more branches of the ERS signaling pathway. Therefore, this review focuses on critical roles of ERS in IPF development, and summarizes herbal preparations and bioactive compounds which protect against IPF through regulating ERS.Keywords: idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, natural products, mechanisms

Chen W, Liang J, He S, et al. J Inflamm Res. 2024;17:5957–5975. The authors have advised that Table 2 on page 5962 is incorrect. Specifically, the primers were mistakenly labeled as the five herbal components of She-Chuang-Si-Wu-Tang, when they should have been listed as cytokine genes. The correct table is as follows. Table 2 Primer Sequences for Quantitative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction The authors apologize for the error.

BackgroundPatients with esophageal cancer often experience clinically relevant deterioration of quality of life (QOL) after esophagectomy owing to malnutrition, lack of physical exercise, and psychological symptoms. ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of a comprehensive intervention model using a mobile health system (CIMmH) in patients with esophageal cancer after esophagectomy. MethodsTwenty patients with esophageal cancer undergoing the modified McKeown surgical procedure were invited to join the CIMmH program with both online and offline components for 12 weeks. The participants were assessed before surgery and again at 1 and 3 months after esophagectomy. QOL, depressive symptoms, anxiety, stress, nutrition, and physical fitness were measured. ResultsOf the 20 patients, 16 (80%) completed the program. One month after esophagectomy, patients showed significant deterioration in overall QOL (P=.02), eating (P=.005), reflux (P=.04), and trouble with talking (P

Qianqian Liang,1– 3 Difang Sun,1– 3 Shuyue Xue,1– 3 Xinying Li,1– 3 Xin Liu,1– 3 Qing Du,1– 3 Zhichun Zhang,1– 3 Xiubin Ma,1– 3 Jun Li1– 3 1Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong, People’s Republic of China; 2State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, Shandong, People’s Republic of China; 3School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Jun Li; Xiubin Ma, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, 266071, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-532-85876380, Email doctor_li@126.com; maxiubin2005@126.comPurpose: To compare the effectiveness and safety of adjustable and free postoperative positioning after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).Design: Prospective, randomized controlled study.Methods: A total of 94 eyes with RRD were enrolled from April 2020 to April 2023 and monitored postoperatively for at least 3 months. All patients underwent PPV combined with silicone oil injection or gas tamponade and were randomly divided postoperatively into two groups: an adjustable positioning group and a free positioning group. The success of the outcome was based on the retinal reattachment rate, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), postoperative complications, and ocular biometric parameters such as anterior chamber depth (ACD) and lens thickness (LT).Results: The initial retinal reattachment rate was 97.9% in the adjustable positioning group and 95.7% in the free positioning group, manifesting no statistical difference between the two groups. Similarly, no statistical difference was observed between the two groups in the final BCVA, which was significantly improved compared to the preoperative BCVA. The comparison of the 1-month postoperative ACD and LT with the preoperative values showed no statistically significant differences in the two groups. The rates of complications were not statistically different in the two groups.Conclusion: After treating RRD using PPV, neither the adjustable nor the free postoperative positioning affected the retinal reattachment rate or the incidence of complications. Therefore, our study showed that it is safe and effective to adopt free positioning postoperatively, which may provide more options for patients with RRD undergoing PPV.Keywords: rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, pars plana vitrectomy, adjustable positioning, free positioning

Xia Yu,1,* Yingxia He,2,* Yuzhen Gu,1,* Tingting Zhang,1 Fengmin Huo,1 Qian Liang,1 Jing Wu,1 Yan Hu,2 Xuan Wang,2 Wei Tang,2 Hairong Huang,1 Guan Liu2 1National Clinical Laboratory on Tuberculosis, Beijing Key Laboratory on Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 101149, People’s Republic of China; 2Wuhan Pulmonary Hospital, Wuhan Institution of Tuberculosis Control, Wuhan, 430030, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Hairong Huang; Guan Liu, Email huanghairong@tb123.com; liuguantbdoctor@hotmail.comObjective: To evaluate the resolution of chromosomal virulence D (chvD) as a novel marker for mycobacterial species identification.Methods: A segment of chvD (652 bp) was amplified by PCR from 63 mycobacterial reference strains, 163 nontuberculous mycobacterial clinical isolates, and 16 M. tuberculosis complex (MTBC) clinical isolates. A phylogenetic tree based on the reference strains was constructed by the neighbor-joining and IQ-tree methods. Comparative sequence analysis of the homologous chvD gene efficiently differentiated the species within the genus Mycobacterium. Slowly growing Mycobacterium (SGM) and rapidly growing Mycobacterium (RGM) were separated in the phylogenetic tree based on the chvD gene.Results: The sequence discrepancies were obvious between M. kansasii and M. gastri, M. chelonae and M. abscessus, and M. avium and M. intracellulare, none of which could be achieved by 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) homologous gene alignment. Furthermore, chvD manifested larger intraspecies diversity among members of M. intracellulare subspecies. A total of 174 of the 179 (97.21%) clinical isolates, consisting of 12 mycobacterial species, were identified correctly by chvD blast. Four M. abscessus subsp. abscessus were identified as M. abscessus subsp. bolletii by chvD. MTBC isolates were indistinguishable, because they showed 99.84%– 100% homology.Conclusion: Homologous chvD is a promising gene marker for identifying mycobacterial species, and could be used for highly accurate species identification among mycobacteria.Keywords: species identification, Mycobacterium, chromosomal virulence D, phylogenetic tree

Can Zhou,* Chunting Hua,* Qichang Liang,* Mus’ab Al Rudaisat, Siji Chen, Yinjing Song, Jiang Zhu, Hao Cheng Department of Dermatology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Hao Cheng; Jiang Zhu, Email chenghao1@zju.edu.cn; jzhu1@zju.edu.cnBackground: As a keratolytic, salicylic acid (SA) can be topically applied in various formulations and doses in dermatology. Supramolecular SA hydrogel, a new SA formulation with higher bioavailability, is developed and commercially available nowadays. However, there still remain concerns that the long-term and continual application of SA at low concentrations may jeopardize the cutaneous barrier properties.Aim of the Study: To reveal the long-term effects of 0.5– 5% supramolecular SA hydrogel on the skin barrier in normal mice models.Materials and Methods: The 0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 5% supramolecular SA hydrogel or hydrogel vehicle without SA was applied to mice’s shaved dorsal skin once per day respectively. Tissue samples of the dorsal skin were harvested on day 14 and 28 of the serial application of SA for histopathological observation and transcriptomic analysis.Results: Following topical supramolecular SA hydrogel therapy with various concentrations of SA (0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 5%) for 14 days and 28 days, there were no obvious macroscopic signs of impaired cutaneous health and no inflammatory or degenerative abnormalities were observed in histological results. Additionally, the transcriptomic analysis revealed that on day 14, SA dramatically altered the expression of genes related to the extracellular matrix structural constituent. And on day 28, SA regulated gene expression profiles of keratinization, cornified envelope, and lipid metabolism remarkably. Furthermore, the expression of skin barrier related genes was significantly elevated after the application of SA based on RNA-seq results, and this is likely to be associated with the PPAR signaling pathway according to the enrichment analysis.Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated that the sustained topical administration of the 0.5– 5% supramolecular SA hydrogel for up to 28 days did no harm to normal murine skin and upregulated the expression of genes related to the epidermal barrier.Keywords: supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel, skin barrier, PPAR signaling pathway, transcriptomic analysis

Juan Chen,1,* Qiqiang Liang,1,* Shuo Ding,1 Yongshan Xu,1 Yanting Hu,1 Jingyu Chen,2,3 Man Huang1,3 1Department of General Intensive Care Unit, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China; 2Wuxi Lung Transplant Center, Wuxi People’s Hospital affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Lung Transplantation, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Man Huang, Department of General Intensive Care Unit, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China, Tel/Fax +86 571 89713427, Email huangman@zju.edu.cn Jingyu Chen, Wuxi Lung Transplant Center, Wuxi People’s Hospital affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China, Email chenjy@wuxiph.comBackground: Experience of ceftazidime-avibactam (CAZ/AVI) for carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA) infection in recipients after lung transplantation (LT) is relatively limited.Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted on lung transplant recipients receiving CAZ/AVI therapy for CRPA infection. The primary outcomes were the 14-day and 30-day mortality. The secondary outcomes were clinical cure and microbiological cure.Results: Among 183 LT recipients, a total of 15 recipients with CRPA infection who received CAZ/AVI therapy were enrolled in this study. The mean age of recipients was 54 years and 73.3% of recipients were male. The median time from infection onset to initiation of CAZ/AVI treatment was 4 days (IQR, 3– 7) and the mean duration of CAZ/AVI therapy was 10 days. CAZ/AVI was mainly administered as monotherapy in LT recipients (80%). Among these eligible recipients, 14-day and 30-day mortality were 6.7% and 13.3%, respectively. The clinical cure and microbiological cure rates of CAZ/AVI therapy were 53.3% and 60%, respectively. Three recipients (20%) experienced recurrent infection. In addition, the mean lengths of ICU stay and hospital stay were 24 days and 35 days, respectively, among LT recipients.Conclusion: CAZ/AVI may be an alternative and promising regimen for CRPA eradiation in lung transplant recipients.Keywords: carbapenem-resistantPseudomonas aeruginosa, ceftazidime/avibactam, lung transplantation, infection, efficacy, mortality

Yanfeng Bao,1,2,* Chen Dong,2,* Qian Liang,2 Xiaoming Zhang,3 Zhifeng Gu,2 Chun Cheng1 1School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Rheumatology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China; 3Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Zhifeng Gu; Chun Cheng, Tel +86-13706291941 ; +86-13962952110, Email guzf@ntu.edu.cn; ccheng@ntu.edu.cnPurpose: The outbreak of coronavirus disease has become an evolving global health crisis with wide-ranging implications. Clinical researches from several countries have reported greater morbidity and mortality from COVID-19 patients with diabetes. SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 vaccines are currently the relatively effective means of prevention. The research was aimed to explore the attitudes of diabetic patients towards COVID-19 vaccine and the knowledge of COVID-19 related epidemiology and epidemic prevention.Methods: This case–control study was carried out in China via online and offline surveys. Knowledge questionnaire of COVID-19 and drivers of COVID-19 Vaccination Acceptance Scale (DrVac-COVID19S) were used to compare the difference of COVID-19 vaccination attitude, preventive measures, and knowledge of SARS-COV-2 between diabetic patients and healthy citizens.Results: The diabetic patients showed lower vaccination willingness and insufficient knowledge of the transmission route and common symptoms of COVID-19. Only 60.99% diabetic patients were willing to be vaccinated. Less than half of diabetics knew the COVID-19 spread by surface touch (34.04%) or aerosol (20.57%). The common symptoms like shortness of breath/ anorexia/ fatigue/ nausea/vomiting/diarrhea (34.04%) and panic and chest tightness (19.15%) were not well comprehend too. Diabetes patients shown lower report intentions when they contact a person infected with the virus (81.56%) or have any of the disease symptoms (74.47%). Values, knowledge, and autonomy assessed by the DrVac-COVID19S scale also showed negative attitude of vaccination in patients with diabetes. Also, patient with diabetes pay less attention to national (56.03%) and international (51.77%) COVID-19 updates. The willingness to attend COVID-19 lectures (27.66%) or read information leaflets (70.92%) was low.Conclusion: Vaccination is the effective available method for preventing the virus. Social and medical workers can increase the vaccination of diabetic patients through knowledge’s popularization and patient’s education based on the above differences.Keywords: COVID-19, diabetic patients, COVID-19 vaccination, SARS-COV-2, knowledge-attitude-behavior

Xin Wang,1,2 Qianqian Liang,1,2 Zheng Li,1– 4 Fengsen Li1– 4 1Department of Integrated Pulmonology, Fourth Clinical Medical College of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, People’s Republic of China; 2Xinjiang National Clinical Research Base of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Urumqi, Xinjiang, People’s Republic of China; 3Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease Research, Urumqi, Xinjiang, People’s Republic of China; 4Xinjiang Clinical Medical Research Center of Respiratory Obstructive Diseases, Urumqi, Xinjiang, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Zheng Li; Fengsen Li, Tel +86-13999297797 ; +86-13999980996, Email peterli1129@hotmail.com; fengsen602@163.comAbstract: The proportion of obese or overweight patients in COPD patients is increasing. Although BMI, WC and other easy to measure indicators have been proven to be related to the risk of COPD, they cannot accurately reflect the distribution and changes of body composition, ignoring the body composition (such as fat distribution, muscle content, water content, etc.), the relationship between it and disease risk may be missed. By analyzing the correlation between different body composition indexes and COPD patients, we can provide new research ideas for the prognosis judgment or intervention of COPD disease.Keywords: obesity, COPD, body composition, BMI, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, body fat rate, visceral fat, FFMI, extracellular water, intracellular water, phase angle

Ling Lu,1,* Qiaoyan Liang,2,* Xinyi Zhang,3 Yumeng Xu,3 Dehua Meng,4 Zhaofeng Liang3 1Child Healthcare Department, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, People’s Republic of China; 2Health Care Department, People’s Liberation Army Navy No. 971 Hospital, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China; 3School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, People’s Republic of China; 4Department of Allergy, Dongtai People’s Hospital, Yancheng, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Zhaofeng Liang, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212013, People’s Republic of China, Email liangzhaofeng@ujs.edu.cn Dehua Meng, Department of Allergy, Dongtai People’s Hospital, 02 Fukang West Road, Yancheng, Jiangsu, 224200, People’s Republic of China, Email 2798184241@qq.comAbstract: Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignant cancers that seriously affect human health. Autophagy is a highly conserved self-defense mechanism found to plays an important role in the occurrence, progression, drug resistance, and prognosis of GC. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a critical role in the occurrence and development of a variety of diseases including GC. In recent years, increasing attention has been given to research on autophagy-related ncRNAs, such as miRNA, lncRNA, and circRNA in GC. Herein, we briefly summarize the roles, functions, and the research progress of autophagy and autophagy-related ncRNAs in GC with a focus on the potential application in GC tumorigenesis, development, prognosis, and drug resistance. We also discussed prospects of clinical application, future research direction, and challenges in future research of autophagy-related ncRNAs.Keywords: gastric cancer, autophagy, noncoding RNA, function

Juan Chen,&ast; Qiqiang Liang,&ast; Xinyi Chen, Jing Wu, Yanchao Wu, Gaoqin Teng, Man Huang Department of General Intensive Care Unit, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Man Huang, Department of General Intensive Care Unit, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China, Tel/Fax +86 571 89713427, Email huangman@zju.edu.cnPurpose: Ceftazidime/avibactam (CAZ/AVI) monotherapy and polymyxin B-based combination therapy are currently two treatment options for patients with carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA) infection; however, few studies have contrasted the relative efficacy of the two antibiotic regimens. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of CAZ/AVI and polymyxin B against CRPA infection and analyze the independent predictors of 30-day mortality or survival.Patients and Methods: This single-center retrospective observational study included patients with CRPA infection treated with CAZ/AVI or polymyxin B between January 2018 and December 2020. The primary outcomes were the 14-day and 30-day mortality. The secondary outcomes were in-hospital mortality and bacterial clearance. Baseline characteristics and outcomes were compared between the two groups, and COX regression analysis was used to identify predictors of 30-day mortality.Results: A total of 136 patients with CRPA infection were enrolled, including 51 patients in the CAZ/AVI group and 85 patients in the polymyxin B group. The 14-day mortality (5.9% vs 27.1%, p=0.002), 30-day mortality (13.7% vs 47.1%, p< 0.001) and in-hospital mortality (29.4% vs 60.0%, p=0.001) in the CAZ/AVI group were significantly lower than the polymyxin B group. The bacterial clearance rate (45.1% vs 12.9%, p< 0.001) in the CAZ/AVI group were higher than in the polymyxin B group. After adjustment by propensity score matching, the CAV/AVI group still had lower 30-day mortality (14.3% vs 42.9%, p=0.018) and higher bacterial clearance rate (42.9% vs 14.3%, p=0.018) than the polymyxin B group. The multivariate COX analysis showed that the age was identified as independent predictor of 30-day mortality while CAZ/AVI therapy and central venous catheterization emerged as independent predictors of 30-day survival.Conclusion: CAZ/AVI therapy was superior to polymyxin B therapy for patients with CRPA infection, and provided significant survival benefits, but further larger studies were needed to substantiate our findings.Keywords: carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, ceftazidime/avibactam, polymyxin B, effectiveness, mortality

Xiangyuan Qiu,1 Xinying Li,1 Yuanliang Yan,2 Yuan Cai,3 Qiuju Liang,2 Bi Peng,3 Zhijie Xu,3– 5 Muzhang Xiao,6 Fada Xia,1 Jinwu Peng3,4 1Department of Thyroid Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People’s Republic of China; 4Department of Pathology, Xiangya Changde Hospital, Changde, 415000, Hunan, People’s Republic of China; 5National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People’s Republic of China; 6Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Muzhang XiaoDepartment of Burn and Plastic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People’s Republic of ChinaEmail xmzsir@sina.comFada XiaDepartment of Thyroid Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People’s Republic of ChinaEmail xiafada@csu.edu.cnBackground: N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is most common internal RNA modification in eukaryotic cells. Existing evidence shows that m6A is closely related to pathogenesis and progression in breast cancer (BRCA). Therefore, it is critical to investigate the key role of m6A target genes in BRCA.Methods: M6A target genes in BRCA are acquired using RMVar online database. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from three microarray datasets (GSE5764, GSE22358, GSE9014) is processed by GEO2R. Oncomine, GEPIA, UALCAN and TNMplot were applied to validate the expression of DST. Survival analyses were performed via DRUGSURV and Kaplan–Meier Plotter database. Univariable survival and multivariate Cox analysis were completed to assess the prognostic value of DST and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was performed to evaluate the diagnostic value of DST. We also investigated the correlation between DST and cancer immune infiltration via using CIBERSORT, TIMER and TISIDB.Results: DST and COL11A1 were significantly expressed in both DEGs and m6A target genes set. COL11A1 show no significance on the patients’ survival. However, high expression of DST was related to the favorable prognosis. Multivariate analysis revealed that the DST dysregulation is an independent prognostic factor and ROC indicated that the great diagnostic value of DST with AUC of 0.948. Subsequently, immunological analyses showed that DST was significantly associated with various immune infiltration cells, including NK cells, T helper cells and Mast cells. Furthermore, DST was also related with multiple immune checkpoints and chemokines, including LAG3, LMTK3 CD24, CXCL12, KDR and CX3CR1. These results indicated the potential roles of DST in the development of BRCA via altering the immune response.Conclusion: DST can influence the development and progression of BRCA by altering the immune microenvironment.Keywords: breast cancer, DST, N6-methyladenosine, immune microenvironment, immune infiltration

Xinxin Ren,1 Xiang Wang,2 Bi Peng,3 Qiuju Liang,2 Yuan Cai,3 Kewa Gao,3 Yongbin Hu,3 Zhijie Xu,3,4 Yuanliang Yan2 1Center for Molecular Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People’s Republic of China; 4National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Yuanliang YanDepartment of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People’s Republic of ChinaEmail yanyuanliang@csu.edu.cnPurpose: To explore the molecular profiles of transcriptional enhanced associate domain (TEAD) family in ovarian serous carcinoma (OSC).Methods: In this study, we use bioinformatics methods including GEPIA, GE-mini, Oncomine 3.0, Kaplan–Meier plotter, cBioPortal, WebGestalt, TIMER2.0 and DiseaseMeth2.0, and in vitro experimental RT-PCR to assess the expression profiles and prognostic significance of TEAD family in OSC.Results: According to the bioinformatics analysis, TEAD family was abnormally expressed in OSC. In terms of prognosis, Kaplan–Meier plotter indicated that OSC patients with high level of TEAD4 showed poor overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS) and post progression survival (PPS). TEAD family also had significantly diagnostic values for OSC patients. Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) algorithm indicated that TEAD family was significantly associated with different types of infiltrating immune cells, including B cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, neutrophils, CD8+ T cells and CD4+ T cells. Gene set enrichment analysis of TEAD family-associated coexpression genes was further explored. In in vitro experiments, the RT-PCR results showed the upregulated TEAD2/4 in OSC tissues and cells (A2780 and TOV112D). Moreover, decreased expression of TEAD2 could induce the ferroptosis through increasing the ROS accumulation.Conclusion: Thus, TEAD family correlated with the diagnosis, prognosis and immune infiltration in OSC. These results could provide comprehensive understanding of TEAD family in the diagnosis and prognosis of OSC patients.Keywords: TEAD family, Hippo pathway, ovarian serous carcinoma, expression profiles, prognosis, immune infiltration

Zeyu Zhang,1 Xiangyuan Qiu,1 Yuanliang Yan,2 Qiujiu Liang,2 Yuan Cai,3 Bi Peng,3 Zhijie Xu,3,4 Fada Xia1 1Department of Thyroid Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People’s Republic of China; 4National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Zhijie XuDepartment of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People’s Republic of ChinaEmail xzj1322007@csu.edu.cnFada XiaDepartment of Thyroid Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People’s Republic of ChinaEmail xiafada@csu.edu.cnBackground: Ferroptosis is the latest-discovered, iron-dependent form of regulated cell death. It has been increasingly recognized that ferroptosis-related genes participate in oncogenesis and development of cancers, including breast cancer (BRCA). Thus, It is important to explore the biofunctions of ferroptosis-related genes in BRCA.Methods: Transcriptome microarray datasets (GSE22358, GSE9014 and GSE8977, GSE2990 and GSE2034) and TCGA-BRCA were retrieved for analyses. And a variety of computational tools were used to identify the roles and associated biological functions in BRCA.Results: Two ferroptosis-related genes (AKR1C1 and AKR1C3) were significantly expressed in GSE22358, GSE9014 and GSE8977. Higher expression of AKR1C1 was related with favorable prognosis. TCGA-BRCA further confirmed the expression of AKR1C1 and the prognostic value of AKR1C1. Co-expression analyses showed the most enriched GO term and KEGG pathways were termination of DNA-templated transcription and Fanconi anemia pathway. Subsequently, immunological analyses showed AKR1C1 was significantly associated with various immune infiltration cells; among these, dendritic cells, neutrophils, macrophages were the top three infiltrating cells. Furthermore, AKR1C1 was also associated with multiple immunostimulatory molecules and chemokines, including PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA4, B7-H3, VSIR, IL-6, BTLA, CXCL2, and CCR7. These results indicated the potential roles of AKR1C1 in the immune reaction during the pathogenesis of breast cancer.Conclusion: This study firstly demonstrated that ferroptosis-related gene, AKR1C1, could be associated with immune microenvironment, thereby influencing the development and prognosis of patient with breast cancer.Keywords: breast cancer, AKR1C1, ferroptosis, immune microenvironment, immune infiltration

Qian Liang,1– 3,* Haofei Hu,4,* Han Wu,1– 3 Xuan Chen,1– 3 Wei Wang,1– 3 Ying Le,1– 3 Shufen Yang,1– 3 Lijing Jia1– 3 1Department of Endocrinology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Shenzhen, 518020, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China; 4Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, 518000, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Lijing JiaDepartment of Endocrinology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital, 1017 Dongmen North Road, Luohu District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of ChinaEmail srmyynfmk@126.comBackground: Diabetic kidney disease often presents as increased urine albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR). 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) is considered as the best indicator of vitamin D status. Previous studies have shown that 25(OH)D is related to the UACR. However, evidence concerning the connection between 25(OH)D and UACR is still limited in the Chinese population.Materials and Methods: A total of 549 participants with type 2 diabetes were enrolled in the study from Shenzhen People’s Hospital, China. The participants were grouped by the tertiles of 25(OH)D level. The association between 25(OH)D and UACR was examined by multiple linear regression. A generalized additive model (GAM) was used to verify a non-linear relationship. We conducted a subgroup analysis to evaluate the robustness of the results.Results: After adjusting for relevant variables, 25(OH)D was negatively correlated with UACR (β = − 8.7, 95% CI (− 12.0, − 5.4)). A non-linear relationship was discovered between 25(OH)D and UACR, and the 25(OH)D threshold was 67. The effect sizes and confidence intervals on the left and right sides of the inflection point were − 13.9 (− 18.2, − 9.6) and 8.9 (− 1.1, 18.9), respectively. Subgroup analysis showed a stronger correlation could be detected in males. The same trend also could be found in patients older than 70 years old, those with using ACEI/ARB, with history of hypertension, with SBP ≥ 140 mmHg and eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73m2.Conclusion: The relationship between 25(OH)D and UACR is non-linear. 25(OH)D was negatively related to UACR when 25(OH)D is less than 67 nmol/L.Keywords: 25-hydroxyvitamin D, urine albumin to creatinine ratio, nonlinearity

A new adsorbent modified from orange peel (OP) was successfully synthesized by ethylenediamine crosslinking method to remove Cr(VI) from wastewater. The modified orange peel powder (MOPP) was investigated in a batch adsorption system, including both equilibrium adsorption isotherms and kinetics. Effects of several factors, including adsorbent dose, initial pH and Cr(VI) concentration were studied. The data indicated that the pH was not an essential factor that affected the adsorption process, it has a wide pH range from 4 to 10, and high adsorbent dose and lower Cr(VI) concentration could increase the Cr(VI) removal efficiency. Equilibrium data were analysed using the Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin isotherm models and found to be well represented by the Langmuir isotherm model. The maximum capacity (qmax) obtained from Langmuir model was 52.08 mg/g at pH 6.0. The kinetics of adsorption followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic equation. The results suggest that MOPP is an inexpensive and efficient adsorbent for removing Cr(VI) from aqueous solution.

The removal kinetics and mechanism of active black removal by zero-valent iron were investigated. The experimental results showed that the rate of reactive black removal by zero-valent iron increased with the decreasing of pH and initial dye concentration, and increased with the increasing of temperature and ZVI dosage. SO42- promoted the removal rate of reactive black. Ca2+ had an inhibitory effect on the removal of reactive black in the early stage by zero-valent iron and promoted it in the later stage, while Mg2+, CO32-, ClO4-, NO3-, PO43- and HCO3- all inhibited the removal rate of reactive black by zero-valent iron. The activation energy was 26.38 KJ mol-1 by using the Arrhenius formula, indicating that this reaction was easy to occur. The degradation process was further analysed by UV-Vis, SEM and XRD, and the main reaction product was Fe2O3.

Qiuzhen Liang1 ,* Haibin Xiang1 ,* Xinyu Li,2 Chunxia Luo,2 Xuehong Ma,2 Wenhui Zhao,2 Jiangtao Chen,1 Zheng Tian,1 Xinxia Li,2 Xinghua Song3,4 1Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830054, People’s Republic of China; 2School of Pharmacy, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830011, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Orthopaedic, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510630, People’s Republic of China; 4Department of Orthopaedic, The Affiliated Shunde Hospital of Jinan University, Foshan, Guangdong Province 528303, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Xinghua SongDepartment of Orthopaedic, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510630, People’s Republic of ChinaEmail 811789561@qq.comXinxia LiSchool of Pharmacy, Xinjiang Medical University, No. 393, Xinyi Road, Urumqi 830011, People’s Republic of ChinaEmail lixxphar@163.comBackground: Tuberculosis (TB) is a leading cause of death amongst infectious diseases. The poor response to antitubercular agents necessitates the long-term use of high drug doses, resulting in low patient compliance, which is the main reason for chemotherapy failure and contributes to the development of multidrug-resistant TB. Patient non-compliance has been a major obstacle in the successful management of TB. The aim of this work was to develop and characterise rifapentine (RPT)-loaded PLGA-based nanoparticles (NPs) for reducing dosing frequency.Methods: RPT-loaded PLGA and PLGA–PEG NPs were prepared using premix membrane homogenisation combined with solvent evaporation method. The resulting NPs were characterised in terms of physicochemical characteristics, toxicity, cellular uptake and antitubercular activity. NPs were further evaluated for pharmacokinetic and biodistribution studies in mice.Results: The resulting NPs showed suitable and safe physicochemical characteristics and could be taken up by macrophages. RPT-loaded NPs were more effective against Mycobacterium tuberculosis than free RPT. In vivo studies revealed that NPs could improve pharmacokinetic parameters, particularly for RPT/PLGA–PEG NPs. Moreover, both formulations had no toxicity to the organs of mice and could reduce hepatotoxicity.Conclusion: The application of PLGA-based NPs as sustained-release delivery vehicles for RPT could prolong drug release, modify pharmacokinetics, increase antitubercular activity and diminish toxicity, thereby allowing low dosage and frequency.Keywords: tuberculosis, rifapentine, drug delivery system, nanoparticles

Ling Lu,1,* Qiaoyan Liang,2,* Shiyue Shen,3 Lei Feng,3 Longtao Jin,1 Zhao feng Liang3 1Women and Children Health Hospital of Zhenjiang, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212001, People’s Republic of China; 2People’s Liberation Army Navy No. 971 Hospital, Qingdao, Shandong 266000, People’s Republic of China; 3Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Longtao JinWomen and Children Health Hospital of Zhenjiang, 20 Zhengdong Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212001, People’s Republic of ChinaEmail 13862451566@163.comZhao feng LiangJiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, People’s Republic of ChinaEmail liangzhaofeng@ujs.edu.cnAbstract: Lung cancer is one of the most common causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Tobacco smoke is the single greatest risk factor of lung cancer. Although enormous progress in understanding the molecular mechanisms by which tobacco smoke leading to lung cancer has been made, the molecular pathogenesis remains largely unclear. Cancer stem cells have been implicated in cancer initiation, development, and drug resistance. In this review, we reviewed the relationship between tobacco smoke and lung cancer, the key role of cancer stem cells in lung cancer and other tumors. More importantly, we elucidate the mechanism of tobacco smoke promoting lung cancer from the perspective of the characteristics of cancer stem cells induced by tobacco smoke.Keywords: lung cancer, tobacco smoke, cancer stem cells, mechanism

Weidong Zhang, Jingfang Chen, Xiaoming Wu, Luyu Chen, Jinxing Wei, Mingqiang Xue, Yuanyuan Liu, Qingzheng Liang Department of Thoracic Surgery, Henan Provincial Chest Hospital, Zhengzhou 450003, Henan Province, People’s Republic of China Correspondence: Weidong Zhang; Qingzheng Liang Email zhangweidong0371@126.com; 707382852@qq.com Objective: To investigate the safety and efficacy of preoperative ultra-short-course chemotherapy, combined with surgical treatment for chest wall tuberculosis and summarize our experience in this regard, to provide a reference for national and international clinicians. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted of the clinical data, preoperative anti-tuberculosis duration, and postoperative recurrence rate in 263 patients with chest wall tuberculosis spanning 5 years. Results: Overall, 263 patients were treated with anti-tuberculosis drugs for about 17.06 ± 12.49 days during the preoperative period. Simple chest wall tuberculosis was treated for 12.82 ± 5.87 days and composite chest wall tuberculosis for 21.04 ± 5.11 days. The postoperative recurrence rate of chest wall tuberculosis was 3.80%, which was close to or lower than the recurrence rate of routine preoperative anti-tuberculous therapy in patients subjected to ultra-short-range anti-tuberculosis treatment before surgery. Conclusion: Preoperative ultra-short-course chemotherapy combined with surgical treatment of chest wall tuberculosis did not increase the recurrence rate of chest wall tuberculosis; moreover, it could effectively shorten hospitalization time and improve patient compliance. Full-line anti-tuberculosis treatment and complete resolution of tuberculosis infections are crucial to curing chest wall tuberculosis. Keywords: chest wall tuberculosis, surgical treatment, ultra-short-course chemotherapy

Yanhong Liu, Yuanyuan Jiang, Lidong Xu, Chongxing Qu, Lei Zhang, Xingguo Xiao, Wenxia Chen, Kunkun Li, Qianping Liang, Huili Wu Department of Gastroenterology, Zhengzhou Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450007, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Huili WuDepartment of Gastroenterology, Zhengzhou Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, No. 124, Funiu Road, Zhongyuan District, Zhengzhou City, Henan Province 450007, People’s Republic of ChinaTel +86-0371-67690972Email wuhuili00965@163.comBackground: Gastric cancer (GC) is a severe threat to human life, with high incidence and mortality. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play crucial roles in the progression of GC. This study attempted to investigate the potential role of circ-NRIP1 and associated action mechanisms in GC cells.Methods: The expression of circ-NRIP1 and miR-186-5p was measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cell viability, apoptosis, and migration were assessed by 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, flow cytometry assay, and transwell assay, respectively. Cellular glycolysis, including cellular glucose uptake, lactate, and ATP/ADP ratios, was also detected by commercial assay kits. The protein levels of hexokinase 2 (HK2) and pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) were quantified by Western blot. The relationship between miR-186-5p and circ-NRIP1 or myosin heavy chain 9 (MYH9) was predicted by the online bioinformatics tool, starBase, and verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Xenograft tumor model was used to evaluate biological function in vivo.Results: The expression of circ-NRIP1 was up-regulated in tissues of GC patients and cells, as well as negatively associated with that of miR-186-5p in tissues. circ-NRIP1 knockdown inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and glycolysis, but induced apoptosis in HGC-27 and AGS cells. circ-NRIP1 competitively targeted miR-186-5p, and MYH9 was a target of miR-186-5p. miR-186-5p knockdown inverted the bio-function effects and glycolytic activation from circ-NRIP1 silencing in HGC-27 and AGS cells. Meanwhile, MYH9 overexpression could rescue the effects of miR-186-5p. Besides, miR-186-5p knockdown inverted the expression pattern of si-circ-NRIP1 transfection in GC cells. Additionally, in vivo experiments confirmed that sh-circ-NRIP1 inhibited tumor growth.Conclusion: circ-NRIP1 accelerated the glycolysis and GC progression by modulating MYH9 via miR-186-5p, suggesting that circ-NRIP1 was a promising biomarker for the treatment of GC.Keywords: GC, circ-NRIP1, miR-186-5p, glycolysis, MYH9

Weidong Zhang,* Jingfang Chen,* Xiaoming Wu, Luyu Chen, Jinxing Wei, Mingqiang Xue, Qingzheng Liang Department of Thoracic Surgery, Henan Provincial Chest Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450003, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Weidong Zhang Room 1, Weiwu Road, Zhengzhou City, Henan Province 450003, People’s Republic of ChinaEmail zhangweidong0371@126.comObjective: To analyse the clinical features of pneumomediastinum associated with DKA (diabetic ketoacidosis) to improve clinicians’ understanding of the disease.Methods: A total of 78 patients with pneumomediastinum associated with DKA were identified in the literature search, and one patient treated in our hospital was included. The clinical features of the 79 patients were retrospectively analysed, and the pathogenesis, clinical symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatment strategies and prognoses were explored.Results: All cases were confirmed by chest CT (computed tomography), and Kussmaul respiration, severe vomiting, chest pain were common symptoms. The main treatment principle was to correct acidosis and treat the primary disease. The majority of patients recovered within 1– 2 weeks, and only 2 patients died.Conclusion: Pneumomediastinum associated with DKA is a rare disease, and it has a benign course when an early diagnosis is made and aetiological treatment is administered.Keywords: pneumomediastinum, diabetic ketoacidosis, treatment, diagnosis

Bin Li,1 Zhirui Guo,2 Quan Liang,1 Huiling Zhou,3 Yanping Luo,4 Shuyun He,2 Zhe Lin1 1Department of Urology, The First Peoples’ Hospital of Foshan, Foshan City, Guangdong Province 528000, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Radiology, The First Peoples’ Hospital of Foshan, Foshan City, Guangdong Province 528000, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Infectious Disease, The First Peoples’ Hospital of Foshan, Foshan City, Guangdong Province 528000, People’s Republic of China; 4Department of Anesthesiology Surgery, The First Peoples’ Hospital of Foshan, Foshan City, Guangdong Province 528000, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Zhe LinDepartment of Urology, The First Peoples’ Hospital of Foshan, Foshan City, Guangdong Province 528000, People’s Republic of ChinaEmail 18038866138@163.comBackground: Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) DiGeorge syndrome critical region gene 5 (DGCR5) plays different roles in different types of human cancer, but its role in prostate cancer (PC) has not been reported.Methods: DGCR5 and TGF-β1 expression in paired tumor and adjacent healthy tissues from 64 PC patients was analyzed by performing RT-qPCR. A 5-year follow-up study was performed to analyze the prognostic value of DGCR5 for PC. The interaction between DGCR5 and TGF-β1 was analyzed by overexpression experiments. Cell stemness was analyzed by cell stemness assay.Results: In our study, we found that DGCR5 was down-regulated in tumor tissues than in adjacent healthy tissues of PC patients, but TGF-β1 was up-regulated in the tumor tissues. DGCR5 expression was not affected by clinical stages, but low DGCR5 level in the tumor was correlated with poor survival. DGCR5 and TGF-β1 were inversely correlated in tumor tissues but not in adjacent healthy tissues. DGCR5 over-expression resulted in down-regulation of TGF-β1, while TGF-β1 treatment did not significantly affect DGCR5 expression. DGCR5 over-expression led to decreased stemness of PC cells, but TGF-β1 treatment played a reverse role and attenuated the effects of DGCR5 over-expression. DGCR5 may decrease the stemness of PC cells by down-regulating TGF-β1.Keywords: prostate cancer, lncRNA DGCR5, TGF-β1, stemness

Qiuzhen Liang, Xinghua Song, Shengli She, Zhen Wang, Chong Wang, Dawei Jiang Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830054, China Background: Low drug concentration in the tuberculosis (TB) lesion and bone defects or nonunion after debridement are two major problems that occur in the course of treating osteoarticular TB. Thus, the combination of drug-delivery system and bone tissue repair appears to be the most promising option for osteoarticular TB treatment. Materials and methods: Herein, we report a novel anti-TB dual delivery system based on rifapentine polylactic acid microspheres (RPMs) to treat infections, with the addition of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) seeded in hydroxyapatite/tricalcium phosphate (HA/TCP) to promote bone formation. Cell proliferation, osteogenesis, and apoptosis were performed to investigate the effects of rifapentine on ASCs. The RPMs were synthesized by emulsion-solvent evaporation method, and then the monolayer composite (ASC + RPM) and three-dimensional (3D) composite scaffold (ASC + RPM + HA/TCP) were constructed, respectively. The alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and real-time PCR were used for determining the osteogenic differentiation. The concentrations of rifapentine resulting from the composites were detected. Results: The results showed that rifapentine has no influence on ASCs proliferation and osteogenesis when the drug concentration was below 20 µg/mL, which was significantly higher than minimal inhibitory concentration. The drug loading and encapsulation efficiency of RPMs were 40.56%±2.63% and 70.24%±2.18%, respectively. The proliferation of the cells in monolayer was higher than that in 3D composite, and the addition of RPMs slightly increased the proliferation. The ALP activity and gene expression of osteocalcin and osteopontin were higher in the 3D composite than those in the monolayer. Good biocompatibility was observed by microscopic image and H&E stain. The release tests revealed that the 3D composite exhibited sustained release profiles of rifapentine for 76 days. The dual delivery systems in 3D composite could moderate the burst release and extend the length of release time when compared to single delivery in monolayers. Conclusion: In conclusion, such dual delivery antituberculotic scaffold represents a potential new strategy for TB infections and bone defects. Keywords: tuberculosis, rifapentine, drug delivery, release system, scaffold, tissue engineering

Li Zhang,1–3 Junli Chang,1–3 Yongjian Zhao,1–3 Hao Xu,1–3 Tengteng Wang,1–3 Qiang Li,1–3 Lianping Xing,4 Jing Huang,5 Yongjun Wang,1–3,6 Qianqian Liang1–3 1Department of Orthopaedics, Longhua Hospital, 2Institute of Spine, 3Key Laboratory of Theory and Therapy of Muscles and Bones, Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China; 4Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA; 5School of Life Science, East China Normal University, 6School of Rehabilitation Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China Abstract: Triptolide (TP) exhibits immunosuppressive, cartilage-protective and anti-inflammatory effects in rheumatoid arthritis. However, the toxicity of TP limits its widespread use. To decrease the toxic effects, we developed a novel nano-drug carrier system containing TP using poly-γ-glutamic acid-grafted di-tert-butyl L-aspartate hydrochloride (PAT). PAT had an average diameter of 79±18 nm, a narrow polydispersity index (0.18), a strong zeta potential (-32 mV) and a high drug encapsulation efficiency (EE1=48.6%) and loading capacity (EE2=19.2%), and exhibited controlled release (t1/2=29 h). The MTT assay and flow cytometry results indicated that PAT could decrease toxicity and apoptosis induced by free TP on RAW264.7 cells. PAT decreased lipopolysaccharides/interferon γ-induced cytokines expression of macrophage (P

Yu Liu,1 Feng Liu,2 Qi Liang,3 Yexin Li,4 Zhifei Wang5 1Department of Neurosurgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 2Department of Neurosurgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 3Department of Radiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 4Department of Neurosurgery, The Central Hospital of Shaoyang, Shaoyang, 5Department of Neurosurgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China Abstract: Pituitary abscess is a rare but critical disorder caused by an infectious process where purulent material accumulates inside the sella turcica. Since symptoms, signs and radiographic characteristics of pituitary abscess are similar to several other pituitary lesions, correct diagnosis before surgery is challenging. In this article, two cases of pituitary abscess treated in our department are reported, followed by a literature review. In these two cases, both patients presented with intermittent fever. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a suprasellar lesion with rim enhancement after contrast injection. After transsphenoidal surgery, the diagnosis of pituitary abscess was confirmed. The patients were then given antibiotic treatment and recovered fully in less than 2 months. Findings of this article support timely diagnosis and proper treatment including transsphenoidal surgery and antibiotic therapy for pituitary abscess, leading to lower mortality rates and higher probability of pituitary hormone function recovery. Keywords: pituitary abscess, transsphenoidal resection, antibiotic therapy, diagnosis

Xianxie Zhang,1 Yuguang Wang,2 Zengchun Ma,2 Qiande Liang,2 Xianglin Tang,2 Donghua Hu,2 Hongling Tan,2 Chengrong Xiao,2 Yue Gao2 1Air Force General Hospital of People’s Liberation Army, Beijing, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China Abstract: Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA) (C19H18O3) is one of the major active lipophilic components in a conventional Chinese medicine called danshen, and it has long been used in the People’s Republic of China and other neighboring countries to treat patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Previous experiments by many teams determined which mechanism of Tan IIA is relevant to the treatment of IBD associated with inflammation and the pregnane X receptor (PXR). The current study demonstrated that Tan IIA is an efficacious PXR agonist and its ability to induce CYP3A4 mRNA and protein expression was mediated by the transactivation of PXR, a known target of abrogating inflammation in IBD. Clinical symptoms in mice and histological assessment data suggested that administration of Tan IIA in mice demonstrated significant protection and showed that in DSS-induced IBD it acts in a concentration-dependent manner. PXR-silenced mice treated with Tan IIA demonstrated low protection against DSS-induced mouse IBD and exacerbated the severity of IBD compared with wild-type mice; PXR-silenced mice demonstrated the necessity for PXR in Tan IIA-mediated upregulation of xenobiotic metabolism genes. The IBD treatment effects of Tan IIA are partially due to PXR-mediated upregulation of xenobiotic metabolism and downregulation of inflammatory mediators. The novel findings reported here may contribute to the effective utilization of Tan IIA and its derivatives as a PXR ligand in the treatment of human IBD. This suggests that Tan IIA may have considerable clinical utility. Keywords: dashen, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, tanshinone IIA, pregnane X receptor, inflammatory bowel disease, dextran sodium sulfate

Background:. Since BREAST-Q was developed in 2009, it has been widely used by clinicians and researchers to capture information regarding health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and patient satisfaction related to breast surgery. Yet clinical guidelines regarding the use of BREAST-Q for assessment of success of surgery in women with breast cancer remain limited. To maximize the benefits of using BREAST-Q to inform clinical decision making, this systematic review aimed to identify and appraise current evidence on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) assessed by BREAST-Q associated with breast oncoplastic surgery. Methods:. A detailed search strategy was implemented and electronic databases searched include PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO. Review was limited to peer-reviewed studies published in English from 2009 to January 2018. Any interventional and observational studies that used BREAST-Q to assess PROs in the assessment of breast oncoplastic surgery were included. Results:. Fifty-four peer-reviewed articles met inclusion criteria. Fifty-three studies were observational, 1 study was interventional. Current comparative studies using BREAST-Q indicated that abdominal flap, buttock flap, or thigh flap reconstruction offered highest satisfaction with breast; contralateral prophylactic mastectomy with immediate reconstruction offered higher levels of satisfaction with breast, but poor postsurgical physical well-being. Silicone implant and no radiation therapy offered higher level satisfaction and HRQoL. Conclusions:. Current evidence showed that BREAST-Q can effectively measure patient’s satisfaction and HRQoL in relation to different type of breast oncoplastic surgeries. BREAST-Q captured meaningful and reliable information from the patients’ perspective and may be useful for clinical decision making.

Zhang L, Wang TT, Li Q, et al. Int J Nanomedicine. 2016;11:2663–2673.Following a review of their data post-publication, the authors found errors in the kidney and PPT group image used for Figure 7 on page 2671 and the spleen control and PP group images and liver PP and PPT group images used for Figure 8 on page 2671. For accuracy and experimental integrity these images have been corrected, with no impact to the conclusions of the study. The authors apologize for these errors. Read the original article

Zhang L, Chang J, Zhao Y, et al. Int J Nanomedicine. 2018;13:2051–2064. Following a review of their data post-publication, the authors found errors in Figure 1B on page 2055 and the Liver WTand PAT images used for Figure 4 on page 2059. For accuracy and experimental integrity these images have been corrected, with no impact to the conclusions of the study. The authors apologize for this error. Read the original article

Roughness, which can represent the trade-off between manufacturing cost and performance of mechanical components, is a critical predictor of cracks, corrosion and fatigue damage. In order to measure polished or super-finished surfaces, a novel touch probe based on three-component force sensor for characterizing and quantifying surface roughness is proposed by using silicon micromachining technology. The sensor design is based on a cross-beam structure, which ensures that the system possesses high sensitivity and low coupling. The results show that the proposed sensor possesses high sensitivity, low coupling error, and temperature compensation function. The proposed system can be used to investigate micromechanical structures with nanometer accuracy.

Abstract: Tungsten-copper (W-Cu) composite and 1Cr18Ni9 stainless steel were brazed with Ag-28wt%Cu brazing filler metal in a vacuum furnace, via controlling brazing temperature 855–865 °C and holding time 30 min. Microstructure, microhardness, four-point bend strength, element distribution and phase constituents near interface of the brazed joint, were investigated by a series of standard technique. Results indicated that Ag-Cu eutectic phase near W-Cu composite side and the bulk phase near 1Cr18Ni9 steel side were formed in the brazing seam region. Microhardness of the eutectic phase was low, while that of the bulk copper-rich phase was high. Four-point bend strength was as high as 576 MPa, and the fracture occurred at interface near 1Cr18Ni9 steel side. On the brazed interface, Cu and a little W element were transited from W-Cu composite into the brazing seam region, as same as Fe from 1Cr18Ni9 steel. Ag contained in the brazing filler metal was diffused into the W-Cu composite. Element concentration of Ag was high at interface of both two base metals, which was helpful to promote the metallurgical reaction. Phase constituents of the brazed joint were Cu(Ag, Fe), Ag(Cu) and a little of Ag0.7Fe0.3 and FeCu4, formed in the metallurgy of Fe from 1Cr18Ni9 steel and the Ag-Cu brazing filler metal.