Search

Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to examine the correlation between fasting blood glucose and new-onset hypertension and examine any synergistically effect modification with multiple risk factors. Methods We conducted post-hoc analyses of repeated-measures data in the original Dongzhi osteoporosis cohort study. In total, 3985 participants without hypertension aged 25–64 years were included in the current analyses. Generalized estimating equation models were used to assess the relationship between fasting blood glucose and risk of new-onset hypertension after adjusting for pertinent covariates and autocorrelations among siblings. Results 393 men (19.4%) and 398 women (20.3%) without hypertension at the baseline developed hypertension by the end of the study period. Compared to lower baseline fasting blood glucose levels (Q1–Q3:

Abstract Tryptophan (Trp) metabolism involves three primary pathways: the kynurenine (Kyn) pathway (KP), the 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin, 5-HT) pathway, and the indole pathway. Under normal physiological conditions, Trp metabolism plays crucial roles in regulating inflammation, immunity, and neuronal function. Key rate-limiting enzymes such as indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), Trp-2,3-dioxygenase (TDO), and kynurenine monooxygenase (KMO) drive these metabolic processes. Imbalances in Trp metabolism are linked to various cancers and often correlate with poor prognosis and adverse clinical characteristics. Dysregulated Trp metabolism fosters tumor growth and immune evasion primarily by creating an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Activation of the KP results in the production of immunosuppressive metabolites like Kyn, which modulate immune responses and promote oncogenesis mainly through interaction with the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). Targeting Trp metabolism therapeutically has shown significant potential, especially with the development of small-molecule inhibitors for IDO1, TDO, and other key enzymes. These inhibitors disrupt the immunosuppressive signals within the TME, potentially restoring effective anti-tumor immune responses. Recently, IDO1 inhibitors have been tested in clinical trials, showing the potential to enhance the effects of existing cancer therapies. However, mixed results in later-stage trials underscore the need for a deeper understanding of Trp metabolism and its complex role in cancer. Recent advancements have also explored combining Trp metabolism inhibitors with other treatments, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, to enhance therapeutic efficacy and overcome resistance mechanisms. This review summarizes the current understanding of Trp metabolism and signaling in cancer, detailing the oncogenic mechanisms and clinical significance of dysregulated Trp metabolism. Additionally, it provides insights into the challenges in developing Trp-targeted therapies and future research directions aimed at optimizing these therapeutic strategies and improving patient outcomes.

Abstract Background SHR-1707 is a novel humanized anti-Aβ IgG1 monoclonal antibody that binds to Aβ fibrils and monomers to block the formation of Aβ plaques or to promote the microglial phagocytosis of Aβ. Preclinical studies showed that SHR-1707 reduced brain Aβ deposition in 5xFAD transgenic mice. Herein, we conducted two phase 1 studies to evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of a single intravenous dose of SHR-1707 in healthy adult subjects. Methods Two randomized, double-blind, single-ascending-dose, phase 1 studies were conducted in China (Study CHN) and Australia (Study AUS). Study CHN consisted of 2 parts. In Part 1, eligible healthy young adults (18–45 years) were sequentially randomized 8:2 to receive SHR-1707 (five cohorts: 2, 6, 20, 40, and 60 mg/kg) or placebo in each cohort; in Part 2, elderly subjects (55–80 years) were randomized 8:4 to receive SHR-1707 (20 mg/kg) or placebo. A similar design was used in Study AUS, but with only healthy young adults enrolled across three dosing cohorts (2, 20, and 60 mg/kg). Results Sixty-two (part 1/2, n = 50/12; age range, 18–42/55–63 years) and 30 subjects (age range, 18–42 years) received SHR-1707 or placebo in Study CHN and Study AUS, respectively. In Study CHN, all treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) were mild, with the most common being transient laboratory abnormalities. In Study AUS, TRAEs were mostly mild (1 moderate event each with SHR-1707/placebo); the most common TRAEs with SHR-1707 were dysgeusia and fatigue (8.3% each). In both studies, the exposure of SHR-1707 increased in a slightly greater than dose-proportional manner over the dose range of 2–60 mg/kg in young adults; there was a dose-dependent increase in plasma Aβ42 concentration following SHR-1707 administration compared with the placebo group. The safety and PK and PD profiles of SHR-1707 in the elderly subjects were consistent with the younger counterpart at the same dose level. No ethnic difference in safety, PK and PD of SHR-1707 was observed. Conclusions A single intravenous dose of SHR-1707 at 2–60 mg/kg was safe and well tolerated in healthy young adult and elderly subjects. The PK and PD profiles are supportive for further clinical development. Trial registration NCT04973189 (retrospectively registered on Jul.21, 2021) and NCT04745104 (registered on Feb.6, 2021) on clinicaltrials.gov.

Abstract Background Patients with chronic lung diseases (CLDs), defined as progressive and life-limiting respiratory conditions, experience a heavy symptom burden as the conditions become more advanced, but palliative referral rates are low and late. Prognostic tools can help clinicians identify CLD patients at high risk of deterioration for needs assessments and referral to palliative care. As current prognostic tools may not generalize well across all CLD conditions, we aim to develop and validate a general model to predict one-year mortality in patients presenting with any CLD. Methods A retrospective cohort study of patients with a CLD diagnosis at a public hospital from July 2016 to October 2017 was conducted. The outcome of interest was all-cause mortality within one-year of diagnosis. Potential prognostic factors were identified from reviews of prognostic studies in CLD, and data was extracted from electronic medical records. Missing data was imputed using multiple imputation by chained equations. Logistic regression models were developed using variable selection methods and validated in patients seen from January 2018 to December 2019. Discriminative ability, calibration and clinical usefulness of the model was assessed. Model coefficients and performance were pooled across all imputed datasets and reported. Results Of the 1000 patients, 122 (12.2%) died within one year. Patients had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or emphysema (55%), bronchiectasis (38%), interstitial lung diseases (12%), or multiple diagnoses (6%). The model selected through forward stepwise variable selection had the highest AUC (0.77 (0.72–0.82)) and consisted of ten prognostic factors. The model AUC for the validation cohort was 0.75 (0.70, 0.81), and the calibration intercept and slope were − 0.14 (-0.54, 0.26) and 0.74 (0.53, 0.95) respectively. Classifying patients with a predicted risk of death exceeding 0.30 as high risk, the model would correctly identify 3 out 10 decedents and 9 of 10 survivors. Conclusions We developed and validated a prognostic model for one-year mortality in patients with CLD using routinely available administrative data. The model will support clinicians in identifying patients across various CLD etiologies who are at risk of deterioration for a basic palliative care assessment to identify unmet needs and trigger an early referral to palliative medicine. Trial registration Not applicable (retrospective study).

Abstract Background Accumulating evidences indicate regional grey matter (GM) morphology alterations in pediatric growth hormone deficiency (GHD); however, large-scale morphological brain networks (MBNs) undergo these patients remains unclear. Objective To investigate the topological organization of individual-level MBNs in pediatric GHD. Methods Sixty-one GHD and 42 typically developing controls (TDs) were enrolled. Inter-regional morphological similarity of GM was taken to construct individual-level MBNs. Between-group differences of topological parameters and network-based statistics analysis were compared. Finally, association relationship between network properties and clinical variables was analyzed. Results Compared to TDs, GHD indicated a disturbance in the normal small-world organization, reflected by increased Lp, γ, λ, σ and decreased Cp, Eglob (all P FDR < 0.017). Regarding nodal properties, GHD exhibited increased nodal profiles at cerebellum 4-5, central executive network-related left inferior frontal gyrus, limbic regions-related right posterior cingulate gyrus, left hippocampus, and bilateral pallidum, thalamus (all P FDR < 0.05). Meanwhile, GHD exhibited decreased nodal profiles at sensorimotor network -related bilateral paracentral lobule, default-mode network-related left superior frontal gyrus, visual network -related right lingual gyrus, auditory network-related right superior temporal gyrus and bilateral amygdala, right cerebellum 3, bilateral cerebellum 10, vermis 1-2, 3, 4-5, 6 (all P FDR < 0.05). Furthermore, serum markers and behavior scores in GHD group were correlated with altered nodal profiles (P ≤ 0.046, uncorrected). Conclusion GHD undergo an extensive reorganization in large-scale individual-level MBNs, probably due to abnormal cortico-striatal-thalamo-cerebellum loops, cortico-limbic-cerebellum, dorsal visual-sensorimotor-striatal, and auditory-cerebellum circuitry. This study highlights the crucial role of abnormal morphological connectivity underlying GHD, which might result in their relatively slower development in motor, cognitive, and linguistic functional within behavior problem performance.

Abstract Objective In this study, we compared the analgesic effects of intercostal nerve block (ICNB), ultrasound-guided paravertebral nerve block (PVB), and epidural block (EB) following single-port thoracoscopic lung surgery. Method A total of 120 patients who underwent single-hole thoracoscopic lung surgery were randomly and equally divided into three groups: ICNB group, the PVB group, and the EB group. ICNB was performed under direct thoracoscopic visualization before the conclusion of the surgery in the ICNB group, while PVB and EB were performed after general anesthesia in the PVB and EB groups, respectively. Patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) was used following the surgery in all the groups. The following indicators were recorded: Intraoperative sufentanil dosage, anesthesia awakening time, postoperative intubation time, nerve block operation time, postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores during resting and coughing at regular intervals of 0, 2, 4, 8, 24, and 48 h, the time until first PCIA, number of effective compressions within 24 h postoperatively, number of rescue analgesia interventions, and the side effects. Results In comparison to the ICNB group, the PVB and EB groups had a lower intraoperative sufentanil dosage, significantly shorter anesthesia awakening time, and postoperative intubation time, but longer nerve block operation time, lower VAS scores when resting and coughing within 24 h postoperatively (all p-values less than 0.05). Conversely, there were no statistically significant differences in VAS scores during resting and coughing after 24 h (all p-values greater than 0.05). Time to first PCIA, number of effective compressions and number of rescue analgesia at the 24-hour mark postoperatively were significantly better in the PVB and EB groups than that in the ICNB group (P

Abstract Background Interprofessional collaborative care such as a split-shared care model involving family physicians and community pharmacists can reduce the economic burden of diabetes management. This study aimed to evaluate the economic outcome of a split-shared care model between family physicians and community pharmacists within a pharmacy chain in managing people with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes and polypharmacy. Method This was a multi-center, parallel arm, open label, randomized controlled trial comparing the direct and indirect economic outcomes of people who received collaborative care involving community pharmacists (intervention) versus those who received usual care without community pharmacist involvement (control). People with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes, defined as HbA1c > 7.0% and taking ≥ 5 chronic medications were included while people with missing baseline economic data (such as consultation costs, medication costs) were excluded. Direct medical costs were extracted from the institution’s financial database while indirect costs were calculated from self-reported gross income and productivity loss, using Work Productivity Activity Impairment Global Health questionnaire. Separate generalized linear models with log link function and gamma distribution were used to analyze changes in direct and indirect medical costs. Results A total of 175 patients (intervention = 70, control = 105) completed the trial and were included for analysis. The mean age of the participants was 66.9 (9.2) years, with majority being male and Chinese. The direct medical costs were significantly lower in the intervention than the control group over 6 months (intervention: -US$70.51, control: -US$47.66, p

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of double-tract reconstruction on short-term clinical outcome, quality of life and nutritional status of patients after proximal gastrectomy by comparing with esophagogastrostomy and total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction. Methods The clinical data of patients who underwent double tract reconstruction (DTR), esophagogastrostomy (EG), total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction (TG-RY) were retrospectively collected from May 2020 to May 2022. The clinical characteristics, short-term surgical outcomes, postoperative quality of life and nutritional status were compared among the three groups. Results Compared with the DTR group, the operation time in the TG group was significantly shorter (200(180,240) minutes vs. 230(210,255) minutes, p

Abstract Background Individuals may be more likely to engage in NSSI due to negative cognitive bias, while the use of negative emotional regulation mechanisms may further contribute to NSSI. Currently, there is a dearth of studies regarding the correlation among the three variables. Method The study employed convenience sampling to collect data via online platforms from a total of 572 college students in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China, over the period of January 2024 to February 2024. The questionnaires comprise the Non-Adaptive Cognitive Emotion Srategy Regulation Subscale, the Negative Cognitive Processing Bias Questionnaire, and the NSSI Questionnaire. Outcome Negative cognitive bias significantly and directly influences NSSI, as indicated by a beta coefficient of 0.3788 and a confidence interval of [0.2878, 0.4698]. The existence of negative cognitive bias significantly enhances the impact of non-adaptive cognitive emotion control approaches (β = 0.5613, CI [0.4808, 0.6418]). Non-adaptive cognitive emotion regulation strategies showed a significant effect on NSSI, as indicated by a beta coefficient of 0.2033 and a confidence interval of [0.0942, 0.3125]. The non-adaptive cognitive emotion control strategy serves as an intermediary between negative cognitive bias and NSSI, explaining 30.12% of the overall impact. In conclusion The results demonstrate that non-adaptive cognitive emotion regulation strategies play a partially moderating role in the relationship between negative cognitive bias and NSSI among nursing students. We emphasize the importance of non-adaptive cognitive emotion regulation strategies, negative cognitive biases, and NSSI among nursing students. In order to reduce the occurrence of NSSI, it is important for schools, families, and teachers to work together closely and implement a well-organized and efficient intervention to protect the mental well-being of nursing students.

Abstract Background Previously, a novel multiplex system of 64 loci was constructed based on capillary electrophoresis platform, including 59 autosomal insertion/deletions (A-InDels), two Y-chromosome InDels, two mini short tandem repeats (miniSTRs), and an Amelogenin gene. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficiencies of this multiplex system for individual identification, paternity testing and biogeographic ancestry inference in Chinese Hezhou Han (CHH) and Hubei Tujia (CTH) groups, providing valuable insights for forensic anthropology and population genetics research. Results The cumulative values of power of discrimination (CDP) and probability of exclusion (CPE) for the 59 A-InDels and two miniSTRs were 0.99999999999999999999999999754, 0.99999905; and 0.99999999999999999999999999998, 0.99999898 in CTH and CHH groups, respectively. When the likelihood ratio thresholds were set to 1 or 10, more than 95% of the full sibling pairs could be identified from unrelated individual pairs, and the false positive rates were less than 1.2% in both CTH and CHH groups. Biogeographic ancestry inference models based on 35 populations were constructed with three algorithms: random forest, adaptive boosting and extreme gradient boosting, and then 10-fold cross-validation analyses were applied to test these three models with the average accuracies of 86.59%, 84.22% and 87.80%, respectively. In addition, we also investigated the genetic relationships between the two studied groups with 33 reference populations using population statistical methods of F ST, D A, phylogenetic tree, PCA, STRUCTURE and TreeMix analyses. The present results showed that compared to other continental populations, the CTH and CHH groups had closer genetic affinities to East Asian populations. Conclusions This novel multiplex system has high CDP and CPE in CTH and CHH groups, which can be used as a powerful tool for individual identification and paternity testing. According to various genetic analysis methods, the genetic structures of CTH and CHH groups are relatively similar to the reference East Asian populations.

Abstract Background Medication discrepancies commonly occur when patients are transferred between care settings. Despite the presence of medication reconciliation services (MRS), medication discrepancies are still prevalent, which has clinical costs and implications. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of various stakeholders on how the MRS can be optimized in Singapore. Methods This is a descriptive qualitative study. Semi-structured interviews with 30 participants from the National Healthcare Group, including family physicians (N = 10), pharmacists (N = 10), patients recently discharged from restructured hospitals (N = 7) and their caregivers (N = 3) were conducted. All transcribed interviews were coded independently by three coders and inductive thematic analysis approach was used. Results Five core themes were identified. (1) The MRS enhanced healthcare services in various aspects including efficiency and health literacy; (2) There were several challenges in delivering the MRS covering processes, technology and training; (3) Issues with suitable patient selection and follow-up; (4) Barriers to scaling up of MRS that involve various stakeholders, cross-sector integration and environmental restrictions; and finally (5) Role definition of the pharmacist to all the stakeholders. Conclusion This study identified the role of MRS in enhancing healthcare services and explored the challenges encountered in the provision of MRS from family physicians, pharmacists, patients and their caregivers. These findings supported the need for a shift of MRS towards a more comprehensive medication review model. Future improvement work to the MRS can be conducted based on the findings.

Abstract Background This study investigated the effects of authoritarian filial piety (AFP) and caregiver self-efficacy on the caregiving experience of adult children of physically impaired older adults. Socio-cultural stress and coping model was applied to test the influence of AFP on caregiver gains. Methods A total of 601 Chinese adult children caregivers and care-recipient dyads participated in this cross-sectional study in 2021. Four instruments were used to collect data: the 4-item Zarit Burden Interview, Positive Aspects of Caregiving Scale, Caregiver Task Inventory Scale, and Authoritarian Filial Piety Scale. All mediation and moderated mediation effects were estimated using SPSS 26.0. Results Caregiver self-efficacy was found to not only mediate but also help family caregivers convert their burden into positive gains. AFP moderates the association between caregiver burden and self-efficacy, as well as between caregiver burden and caregiver gains. Conclusions This study provides valuable insights into filial piety, elucidating AFP’s comprehensive impact on cognitive appraisals of caregiving. Culturally sensitive psychoeducational therapy, addressing AFP expectations and boosting caregiver self-efficacy, is recommended to enhance positive caregiving outcomes.

Abstract Background Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) caused by Orthohantavirus (OHV) and scrub typhus (ST) caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi (OT) are two infectious diseases prevalent in southwest China. Rodents are the natural host and the main source of the two diseases. OT infection to humans is usually resulted from bite of an infective chigger mite on rodents, and OHV is transmitted through contact or inhalation of aerosols and secretions from infected rodent. The use of antibiotics and hormones is crucial for infectious diseases, although the clinical manifestations are not obvious and a definitive diagnosis becomes more difficult in the presence of these drugs. Clinically, fever is the first symptom of these two diseases, and most of them are accompanied by common symptoms such as chills and headaches. The clinical symptoms of these two diseases are very similar and therefore it is not easy to make a differential diagnosis. Case presentation In this case, a 44-year-old male famer with pulmonary tuberculosis and a history of working in coal transportation was admitted to the hospital because of respiratory symptoms accompanied by fever, headache, and skin rashes on his body. Biochemical and urinalysis revealed the hepatic and renal injury. The subsequent molecular testing confirmed he suffered from HFRS and scrub typhus simultaneously that the serological and clinical diagnosis could not identify the cause of infection before. Such case has not been reported in Yunnan Province before. Conclusion The clinical diagnosis should be combined with serological and nucleic acid testing approaches for differential diagnosis in areas where HFRS and ST are endemic.

Abstract Background Although Singapore is one of the highest vaccinated countries in the world, vaccine hesitancy remains in a subpopulation, including individuals with cancer predisposition syndromes. At the Cancer Genetics Service National Cancer Centre Singapore, we see patients with germline genetic alterations, most being BRCA1/2 pathogenic/likely pathogenic variant (PV/LPV) carriers. While reported safe for cancer patients, there are limited studies addressing the safety profile and outcomes of COVID-19 vaccination among individuals with germline PV/LPV in cancer predisposition genes such as BRCA1/2. This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of COVID-19 vaccination among germline PV/LPV carriers in BRCA1/2. Methods We conducted a phone call survey of COVID-19 vaccination uptake and toxicity in a prospective cohort of 189 participants with germline BRCA1/2 PV/LPV between 1st Sept 2021 and 30th Sept 2021. We collected demographics data including gender, race, age, history of cancer, types of cancer, and number of cancers. Statistical difference in baseline demographics between responders with history of cancer and those without were assessed using Chi-square, Fisher’s exact and independent t-test analysis. Logistic regression was used to evaluate effect of demographics on the occurrence of post-vaccination side effects. Results Among 189 BRCA1/2 PV/LPV carriers responded, 97 carried PV/LPV in BRCA1 and 92 in BRCA2. Majority were vaccinated (89.5%) and had completed the two-dose vaccine schedule, with 7 (4.1%) received only one dose. The most common post-vaccination side effects was myalgia (56.5%) followed by fever (40.2%), headache (16.3%) and fatigue (11.2%). There were no major severe side events. Evaluation by logistic regression showed that the occurrence of side effects was not affected by PV/LPV gene (BRCA1 or BRCA2), gender, race, age or history of cancer. Conclusion The post-vaccination side effects profile among individuals with germline PV/LPV in BRCA1/2 is consistent with the Singaporean general population, hence recommendations for COVID-19 vaccination for these individuals should not differ from non-carriers and should be encouraged by their healthcare providers.

Abstract Objectives Nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) concomitant with coronary artery disease (CAD) may increase the risk of thromboembolism. Antithrombotic therapy for NVAF patients with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remains contradictory and challenging. This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) in a cohort of patients with NVAF and PCI. Methods A total of 109 patients undergoing LAAC procedures between March 2017 and December 2020 were categorized into 2 groups, Group I included 36 patients with PCI while group II included 73 patients without. Peri-procedural and long-term complications, as well as ischemia and bleeding events, were retrospectively analyzed. Results Group I had more diabetes mellitus (55.6% vs. 26.0%; p = 0.003), higher CHA2DS2-VASc scores (5.44 ± 1.85 vs. 4.22 ± 1.64; p = 0.002) and HAS-BLED scores (3.39 ± 0.93 vs. 2.74 ± 1.05; p = 0.003) compared to Group II. Procedure-related complications within 7 days were similar in both groups (8.3% vs. 8.2%; P = 1.000). Over a median follow-up period of 20.9 months, there were no significant differences between two subgroups with regard to cardiovascular death (2.8% vs. 0%, p = 0.330), stroke/transient ischemic attack (2.8% vs. 5.5%, p = 1.000), major bleeding (0% vs. 2.7%, p = 1.000) and device-related thrombus (8.3% vs. 1.4%, p = 0.104). The observed annualized thromboembolic and major bleeding events determined by Kaplan–Meier analysis decreased by 82.4% and 100% in group I, 55.9% and 75.8% in group II, respectively. Conclusion LAAC is a safe and effective option for stroke prevention in NVAF patients with PCI.

Abstract Background Successful implantation is a complex process that is influenced by embryo quality, endometrial receptivity, immune factors, and the specific type of in vitro fertilization protocol used. DNA topoisomerase IIα (TOP2A) is a well-known protein involved in cell proliferation; however, its expression and effect on the endometrium in recurrent implantation failure (RIF) have not been fully elucidated. Methods The human endometrial tissues of healthy controls and patients with RIF were collected. A proteomic analysis was performed to evaluate the differentially expressed proteins between the RIF group and the fertile control group. The expression patterns of TOP2A in the human preimplantation endometrium of the patients with RIF were determined by immunohistochemical staining, Western blotting and qRT-PCR. TOP2A knockdown (sh-TOP2A) T-HESCs were generated using lentiviruses. The expression of TOP2A in T-HESCs was manipulated to investigate its role in decidualization. The TOP2A-related changes in decidualization were screened by mRNA sequencing in decidualized TOP2A knockdown and control T-HESCs and then confirmed by Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining. TOP2A-deficient mice were generated by injection of TOP2A-interfering adenovirus on GD2.5 and GD3.5. Results We performed a proteomic analysis of endometrial tissues to investigate the potential pathogenesis of RIF by comparing the patients with RIF and the matched controls and found that TOP2A might be a key protein in RIF. TOP2A is ubiquitously expressed in both stromal and glandular epithelial cells of the endometrium. The data indicate that TOP2A expression is significantly lower in the mid-secretory endometrium of women with RIF. TOP2A expression was downregulated under stimulation by 8-bromo-cAMP and MPA. Ablation of TOP2A resulted in upregulated expression of decidual biomarkers and morphological changes in the cells. Mechanistic analysis revealed that TOP2A regulates the NF-κB signaling pathway in decidualized T-HESCs. The TOP2A-deficient mice exhibited lower fetal weights. Conclusions Our findings revealed that abnormal expression of TOP2A affects decidualization and changes the “window of implantation”, leading to RIF. TOP2A participates in the processes of decidualization and embryo implantation, functioning at least in part through the NF-κB pathway. Regulating the expression of TOP2A in the endometrium may become a new strategy for the prevention and treatment of RIF.

Abstract Background As one of the severe complications of diabetes mellitus, diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the leading cause of blindness in the working age worldwide. Although panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) was standard treatment, PRP-treated DR still has a high risk of progression. Hence, this study aimed to assess the risk factors and establish a model for predicting worsening diabetic retinopathy (DR-worsening) within five years after PRP. Methods Patients who were diagnosed with severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy or proliferative diabetic retinopathy and treated with PRP were included, and those patients were randomly assigned to either a training or validation cohort. The multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to screen potential risk factors for DR-worsening in the training cohort. Then the model was established after including significant independent risk factors and further validated using discrimination and calibration. Results A total of 271 patients were included, and 56.46% of patients had an outcome of DR-worsening. In the training cohort (n = 135), age (odds ratio [OR] = 0.94, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.90–0.98), baseline best corrected visual acuity (logMAR) (OR = 10.74, 95% CI 1.84–62.52), diabetic nephropathy (OR = 9.32, 95% CI 1.49–58.46), and hyperlipidemia (OR = 3.34, 95% CI 1.05–10.66) were screened out as the independent risk factors, which were incorporated into the predictive model. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve and calibration slope in the training and validation cohort were 0.79, 0.96 (95% CI 0.60–1.31), and 0.79, 1.00 (95% CI 0.66–1.34), respectively. Two risk groups were developed depending on the best cut-off value of the predicted probability, and the actual probability was 34.90% and 82.79% in the low-risk and high-risk groups, respectively (P

Abstract Background To identify the potential biological target molecules and the corresponding interaction networks in primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) development. Methods The microarray datasets of GSE138125 and GSE27276 concerning lncRNA and mRNA expression profiles in trabecular meshwork of POAG were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The R software was applied to identify differentially expressed (DE) lncRNAs and mRNAs in POAG, and to perform GO and KEGG functional enrichment analysis. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and module analysis, and lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network were performed by Cytoscape software. Results A total of 567 DE-mRNAs were identified from GSE138125 and GSE27276, including 298 up-regulated and 269 down-regulated mRNAs, which were found enriching in biological processes of extracellular matrix organization and epidermis development, respectively. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis further revealed that module genes in PPI network were primarily involved in the AGE-PAGE, PI3K-Akt and TGF-β signaling pathways. Moreover, 897 up-regulated and 1036 down-regulated DE-lncRNAs were identified from GSE138125. Through literature review and databases searching, we obtained 712 lncRNA-miRNA and 337 miRNA-mRNA pairs based on the selected eight POAG-related miRNAs. After excluding 702 lncRNAs and 284 mRNAs that were not comprised in the DE-lncRNA and DE-mRNAs, a total of 53 lncRNA nodes, eight miRNA nodes, 10 mRNA nodes, and 78 edges were included in the final ceRNA network. Conclusions This study demonstrated the lncRNA and mRNA expression profiles of trabecular meshwork in POAG patients and the normal controls, and identified potentially ceRNAs and pathways which might improve the pathogenic understanding of this ocular disease.

Abstract Introduction The burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is rising globally including in Singapore. Primary care is the first point of contact for most patients with early stages of CKD. However, several barriers to optimal CKD management exist. Knowing healthcare professionals’ (HCPs) perspectives is important to understand how best to strengthen CKD services in the primary care setting. Integrating a theory-based framework, we explored HCPs’ perspectives on the facilitators of and barriers to CKD management in primary care clinics in Singapore. Methods In-depth interviews were conducted on a purposive sample of 20 HCPs including 13 physicians, 2 nurses and 1 pharmacist from three public primary care polyclinics, and 4 nephrologists from one referral hospital. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and thematically analyzed underpinned by the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) version 2. Results Numerous facilitators of and barriers to CKD management identified. HCPs perceived insufficient attention is given to CKD in primary care and highlighted several barriers including knowledge and practice gaps, ineffective CKD diagnosis disclosure, limitations in decision-making for nephrology referrals, consultation time, suboptimal care coordination, and lack of CKD awareness and self-management skills among patients. Nevertheless, intensive CKD training of primary care physicians, structured CKD-care pathways, multidisciplinary team-based care, and prioritizing nephrology referrals with risk-based assessment were key facilitators. Participants underscored the importance of improving awareness and self-management skills among patients. Primary care providers expressed willingness to manage early-stage CKD as a collaborative care model with nephrologists. Our findings provide valuable insights to design targeted interventions to enhance CKD management in primary care in Singapore that may be relevant to other countries. Conclusions The are several roadblocks to improving CKD management in primary care settings warranting urgent attention. Foremost, CKD deserves greater priority from HCPs and health planners. Multipronged approaches should urgently address gaps in care coordination, patient-physician communication, and knowledge. Strategies could focus on intensive CKD-oriented training for primary care physicians and building novel team-based care models integrating structured CKD management, risk-based nephrology referrals coupled with education and motivational counseling for patients. Such concerted efforts are likely to improve outcomes of patients with CKD and reduce the ESKD burden.

Abstract Introduction In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is an effective infertility treatment but the live birth rate remains unsatisfactory. Ovarian stimulation by follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is routinely used in IVF and the resulting high serum estradiol levels may impair oocyte/embryo quality and endometrial receptivity. Letrozole, an aromatase inhibitor, can reduce serum estradiol levels following ovarian stimulation. We aim to test the hypothesis that co-treatment with letrozole reduces supraphysiological serum estradiol levels and improves endometrial receptivity, leading to a higher live birth rate of IVF. We are conducting a randomised controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate whether letrozole as an adjunct to FSH in IVF is superior to FSH alone in the live birth rate of fresh embryo transfer. Methods/design This is an open-label randomised controlled superiority trial being performed in two assisted reproduction centres in China. Infertile women who have antral follicle count (AFC) before ovarian stimulation or on day 5 of ovarian stimulation ≥15 are randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to receive either letrozole and FSH or FSH alone in a GnRH antagonist protocol. Recruited women follow the standard operating procedures of the two centres. The primary outcome is the live birth rate of the fresh embryo transfer. Stimulation parameters, maternal side effects and obstetric and perinatal complications are secondary outcomes. The planned sample size is 900, i.e. 450 per group. Discussion The present study is the first multicentre randomised study to compare the live birth rate of the fresh embryo transfer following ovarian stimulation by letrozole and FSH versus FSH alone in women with anticipated high ovarian responses. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02912988 . Registered on September 23, 2016. This trial protocol is version 2.0.

Abstract Background Fishes are the one of the most diverse groups of animals with respect to their modes of sex determination, providing unique models for uncovering the evolutionary and molecular mechanisms underlying sex determination and reversal. Here, we have investigated how sex is determined in a species of both commercial and ecological importance, the Siamese fighting fish Betta splendens. Results We conducted association mapping on four commercial and two wild populations of B. splendens. In three of the four commercial populations, the master sex determining (MSD) locus was found to be located in a region of ~ 80 kb on LG2 which harbours five protein coding genes, including dmrt1, a gene involved in male sex determination in different animal taxa. In these fish, dmrt1 shows a male-biased gonadal expression from undifferentiated stages to adult organs and the knockout of this gene resulted in ovarian development in XY genotypes. Genome sequencing of XX and YY genotypes identified a transposon, drbx1, inserted into the fourth intron of the X-linked dmrt1 allele. Methylation assays revealed that epigenetic changes induced by drbx1 spread out to the promoter region of dmrt1. In addition, drbx1 being inserted between two closely linked cis-regulatory elements reduced their enhancer activities. Thus, epigenetic changes, induced by drbx1, contribute to the reduced expression of the X-linked dmrt1 allele, leading to female development. This represents a previously undescribed solution in animals relying on dmrt1 function for sex determination. Differentiation between the X and Y chromosomes is limited to a small region of ~ 200 kb surrounding the MSD gene. Recombination suppression spread slightly out of the SD locus. However, this mechanism was not found in the fourth commercial stock we studied, or in the two wild populations analysed, suggesting that it originated recently during domestication. Conclusions Taken together, our data provide novel insights into the role of epigenetic regulation of dmrt1 in sex determination and turnover of SD systems and suggest that fighting fish are a suitable model to study the initial stages of sex chromosome evolution.

Abstract Background The Forgotten Joint Score is a patient-reported outcome measure validated in assessing patients post knee arthroplasty, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery and patellar dislocation. A previous study had established the normative scores of a population in the USA but included knees with pathology. The aim of our study is to obtain normative Forgotten Joint Scores in young Asian adults without any pre-existing knee pathologies to increase the interpretability of the Forgotten Joint Score-12 (FJS-12) score. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study across young healthy Asian adults via electronic platforms. Participants who had sought either Western medical consultation, physiotherapy or traditional medical therapies were excluded. Demographic data, occupation, type of sport played, and FJS-12 scores were collected. Scores were stratified into subgroups and analysed. Results There were 172 participants who met our inclusion criteria for this study. The average age of participants in our study was 28.1 ± 10.5 years (range 14–70 years), with 83 (47.7%) participants falling into the ages 21–25 years. Average body mass index (BMI) was 21.9 ± 3.3 kg/m2 (range 14.7–36.3 kg/m2). The average FJS-12 score was 62.8 ± 25.6. The median FJS-12 was 63.5 with a range of 4.2–100. Nine participants (5.2%) scored the maximum score possible, and 56 (32.6%) participants scored below the midpoint score of 50. The percentiles for each subgroup of participants were tabulated and reported. Notably, males aged 46–70 years old scored the highest average FJS-12 score of 73.4 ± 5.5, and females aged 31–45 years old scored the lowest FJS-12 score of 57.1 ± 25.1. Females scored lower than males, although the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.157). There were no significant correlations between BMI, age, or type of sport played with FJS-12; however, interestingly, we observed that women reported similar FJS-12 scores across all age groups, while men reported better scores with increasing age.Interestingly, we observed that women reported similar FJS-12 scores across all age groups, while men reported better scores with increasing age. Conclusion Having normative values provides opportunities for benchmarking and comparing individuals against age- and gender-matched peers in the general population. Knowledge of normative values for FJS-12 scores would aid evaluating and tracking progress in patients recovering from injuries or undergoing post-surgery rehabilitation. This would help clinicians determine if they return to ‘normal’ post intervention.

Abstract Background A specific 3-dimensional intrachromosomal architecture of core stem cell factor genes is required to reprogram a somatic cell into pluripotency. As little is known about the epigenetic readers that orchestrate this architectural remodeling, we used a novel chromatin RNA in situ reverse transcription sequencing (CRIST-seq) approach to profile long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the Oct4 promoter. Results We identify Platr10 as an Oct4 - Sox2 binding lncRNA that is activated in somatic cell reprogramming. Platr10 is essential for the maintenance of pluripotency, and lack of this lncRNA causes stem cells to exit from pluripotency. In fibroblasts, ectopically expressed Platr10 functions in trans to activate core stem cell factor genes and enhance pluripotent reprogramming. Using RNA reverse transcription-associated trap sequencing (RAT-seq), we show that Platr10 interacts with multiple pluripotency-associated genes, including Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc, which have been extensively used to reprogram somatic cells. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that Platr10 helps orchestrate intrachromosomal promoter-enhancer looping and recruits TET1, the enzyme that actively induces DNA demethylation for the initiation of pluripotency. We further show that Platr10 contains an Oct4 binding element that interacts with the Oct4 promoter and a TET1-binding element that recruits TET1. Mutation of either of these two elements abolishes Platr10 activity. Conclusion These data suggest that Platr10 functions as a novel chromatin RNA molecule to control pluripotency in trans by modulating chromatin architecture and regulating DNA methylation in the core stem cell factor network.

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic led to the implementation of various non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPI) as the Singapore government escalated containment efforts from DORSCON Orange to Circuit Breaker. NPI include mandatory mask wearing, hand hygiene, social distancing, and closure of schools and workplaces. Considering the similar mode of transmission of COVID-19 and other pathogens related to acute respiratory infections (ARI), the effects of NPI could possibly lead to decreased ARI attendances in the community. This study aims to determine the year-on-year and weekly changes of ARI attendances across a cluster of polyclinics following the implementation of NPI. Methods The effect of the nation-wide measures on the health-seeking behaviour of the study population was examined over three periods: (1) 9 weeks prior to the start of Circuit Breaker (DORSCON Orange period), (2) 8 weeks during the Circuit Breaker, and (3) 9 weeks after easing of Circuit Breaker. Data on ARI attendances for the corresponding periods in 2019 were also extracted for comparison and to assess the seasonal variations of ARI. The average weekly workday ARI attendances were compared with those of the preceding week using Wilcoxon signed rank test. Results ARI attendances dropped steadily throughout the study period and were 50–80% lower than in 2019 since Circuit Breaker. They remained low even after Circuit Breaker ended. Positivity rate for influenza-like illnesses samples in the community was 0.0% from the last week of Circuit Breaker to end of study period. Conclusions NPI and public education measures during DORSCON Orange and Circuit Breaker periods appear to be associated with the health-seeking behaviour of the public. Changing levels of perceived susceptibility, severity, benefits and barriers, and widespread visual cues based on the Health Belief Model may account for this change. Understanding the impact of NPI and shifts in the public’s health-seeking behaviour will be relevant and helpful in the planning of future pandemic responses.

Abstract Background Ocular siderosis is induced by a retained intraocular foreign body (IOFB) containing iron and can present as siderotic glaucoma. We report a rare case of histopathologically proven siderotic glaucoma in a middle-aged blacksmith with a preceding history of ocular trauma but no radiologically detectable IOFB. Case presentation A 42-year-old blacksmith presented with an elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP) in left eye showing iris heterochromia and brownish deposits throughout the trabecular meshwork (TM). Preoperative ophthalmic examination did not reveal any retained IOFBs. Electroretinography showed the classic changes of retinal degeneration in ocular siderosis. Histopathologic staining of the TM verified the presence of iron deposits. Conclusion This case underlines the importance of the close monitoring of patients with a history of ocular trauma and highlights the necessity of electroretinography, histopathologic study, and detailed ophthalmic examination in the diagnosis of siderotic glaucoma, even if there is no definite radiologically detectable IOFB.

Abstract Background Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) spread rapidly around the world. We aimed to describe the epidemiological characteristics and the entire evolution of COVID-19 in Wuhan, and to evaluate the effect of non-pharmaceutical intervention by the government. Methods The information of COVID-19 cases until Mar 18, 2020 in Wuhan were collected from the national infectious disease surveillance system in Hubei province. Results A total of 49,973 confirmed cases were reported until Mar 18, 2020 in Wuhan. Among whom, 2496 cases died and the overall mortality was 5.0%. Most confirmed cases (25,619, 51.3%) occurred during Jan 23 to Feb 4, with a spike on Feb 1 (new cases, 3374). The number of daily new cases started to decrease steadily on Feb 19 (new cases, 301) and decreased greatly on Mar 1 (new cases, 57). However, the mortality and the proportion of severe and critical cases has been decreasing over time, with the lowest of 2.0 and 10.1% during Feb 16 to Mar 18, 2020, respectively. The percentage of severe and critical cases among all cases was 19.6%, and the percentage of critical and dead cases aged over 60 was 70.1 and 82.0%, respectively. Conclusion The number of new cases has dropped significantly after the government taking the isolation of four types of personnel and the community containment for 14 days. Our results indicate that the mortality and proportion of severe and critical cases gradually decreased over time, and critical and dead cases are more incline to be older individuals.

Abstract Background Each myositis-specific autoantibody (MSA) tends to have a distinct clinical presentation. Coexistence of MSAs do not commonly occur. If they do, it is unknown if there is an overlap of clinical features or prognostic implications. There are a few reported cases of overlap between these antibodies, mostly reported in patients with Japanese descent. Our aim for this case report is to turn more attention and interest for future MSA profile studies in the Hispanic population, which may hopefully spur better therapies if we realize the prognostic implications of certain myositis subsets including double-positive autoantibody syndromes. Case presentation A 27-year-old Hispanic female was admitted to the medical intensive care unit due to acute hypoxemic respiratory failure secondary to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). She had failed conventional mechanical ventilation and was cannulated for venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) to manage her respiratory failure. She had erythematous scaly plaques on bilateral 3rd metacarpophalangeal joints on examination. Her autoimmune workup revealed positivity for both anti-PL-7(threonyl) and anti-melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA5) autoantibodies. After extensive evaluation, it was concluded that she had rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease (RPILD) due to amyopathic dermatomyositis. Despite maximal medical management, she was ultimately transitioned to comfort care measures and expired. Conclusion We would like to highlight the rarity of double antibody positive amyopathic dermatomyositis. This unique clinical presentation has only been reported in persons of Japanese descent. Our case is likely to be the first reported to occur in a person of Hispanic descent in the United States. The rarity of our case could stimulate further study of overlapping MSA to understand its varied presentations and prognoses including possible tendency toward a rapidly progressive ILD phenotype. Earlier detection of these clinical syndromes can lead to better outcomes for patients with RPILD. This case report could also herald an increased recognition and understanding of MSA profile in the Hispanic population in the USA.

Abstract Background Ventricular strain measurements vary depending on cardiac chamber (left ventricle [LV] or right ventricle [RV]), type of strain (longitudinal, circumferential, or radial), ventricular level (basal, mid, or apical), myocardial layer (endocardial or epicardial), and software used for analysis, among other demographic factors such as age and gender. Here, we present an analysis of ventricular strain taking all of these variables into account in a cohort of patients with no structural heart disease using a vendor-independent speckle-tracking software. Methods LV and RV full-thickness strain parameters were retrospectively measured in 102 patients (mean age 39 ± 15 years; 62% female). Within this cohort, we performed further layer-specific strain analysis in 20 subjects. Data were analyzed for global and segmental systolic strain, systolic strain rate, early diastolic strain rate, and their respective time-to-peak values. Results Mean LV global longitudinal, circumferential, and radial strain values for the entire cohort were − 18.4 ± 2.0%, − 22.1 ± 4.1%, and 43.9 ± 12.1% respectively, while mean RV global and free wall longitudinal strain values were − 24.2 ± 3.9% and − 26.1 ± 5.2% respectively. Women on average demonstrated higher longitudinal and circumferential strain and strain rate than men, and longer corresponding time-to-peak values. Longitudinal strain measurements were highest at the apex compared with the mid ventricle and base, and in the endocardium compared with the epicardium. Longitudinal strain was the most reproducible measure, followed closely by circumferential strain, while radial strain showed suboptimal reproducibility. Conclusions We present an analysis of ventricular strain in patients with no structural heart disease using a vendor-independent speckle-tracking software.

Abstract Background Juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS) is a rare disorder characterized by the presence of multiple juvenile polyps in the gastrointestinal tract, and germline mutations in SMAD4 or BMPR1A. Due to its rarity and complex clinical manifestation, misdiagnosis often occurs in clinical practice. Case presentation A 42-year-old man with multiple pedunculated colorectal polyps and concomitant rectal adenocarcinoma was admitted to our hospital. His mother had died of colon cancer. He was diagnosed with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and underwent total proctocolectomy and ileal pouch anal anastomosis. Two polyps were selected for pathological examination. One polyp had cystically dilated glands with slight dysplasia. The other polyp displayed severe dysplasia and was diagnosed as adenoma. Three years later, his 21-year-old son underwent a colonoscopy that revealed more than 50 pedunculated colorectal juvenile polyps. Both patients harbored a germline pathogenic mutation in BMPR1A. Endoscopic resection of all polyps was attempted but failed. Finally, the son received endoscopic resection of polyps in the rectum and sigmoid colon, and laparoscopic subtotal colectomy. Ten polyps were selected for pathological examination. All were revealed to be typical juvenile polyps, with cystically dilated glands filled with mucus. Thus, the diagnosis of JPS was confirmed in the son. A review of the literatures revealed that patients with JPS can sometimes have adenomatous change. Most polyps in patients with JPS are benign hamartomatous polyps with no dysplasia. A review of 767 colorectal JPS polyps demonstrated that 8.5% of the polyps contained mild to moderate dysplasia, and only 0.3% had severe dysplasia or cancer. It is difficult to differentiate juvenile polyps with dysplasia from adenoma, which could explain why juvenile polyps have been reported to have adenomatous changes in patients with JPS. Therefore, patients with JPS, especially those with concomitant dysplasia and adenocarcinoma, might be easily diagnosed as FAP in clinical practice. Conclusions Juvenile polyp with dysplasia is often diagnosed as adenoma, which might lead to the misdiagnosis of JPS as FAP. The differential diagnosis of JPS versus FAP, should be based on comprehensive evaluation of clinical presentation, endoscopic appearance and genetic investigations; not on the presence or absence of adenoma.

Abstract Background This study aimed to identify and evaluate potential molecular targets associated with the development of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (DR). Methods The microarray dataset “GSE60436” generated from fibrovascular membranes (FVMs) associated with proliferative DR was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from the active FVMs and control or inactive FVMs and control were evaluated and co-DEGs were identified using VEEN analysis. Functional enrichment analysis, and protein-protein interactions (PPI) network and module analyses were performed on the upregulated and downregulated coDEGs. Finally, several predictions regarding microRNAs (miRNAs) and transcription factors (TFs) were made to construct a putative TF-miRNA-target network. Results A total of 1475 co-DEGs were screened in active/inactive FVM samples, including 461 upregulated and 1014 downregulated genes, which were enriched for angiogenesis [Hypoxia Inducible Factor 1 Subunit Alpha (HIF1A) and Placental Growth Factor (PGF)] and visual perception, respectively. In the case of the upregulated co-DEGs, Kinesin Family Member 11 (KIF11), and BUB1 Mitotic Checkpoint Serine/Threonine Kinase (BUB1) exhibited the highest values in both the PPI network and module analyses, as well as the genes related to mitosis. In the case of downregulated co-DEGs, several G protein subunits, including G Protein Subunit Beta 3 (GNB3), exhibited the highest values in both the PPI network and module analyses. The genes identified in the module analysis were found to be from the signal transduction-related pathways. In addition, we were able to identify four miRNAs and five TFs, including miR-136 and miR-374. Conclusions In brief, HIF1A, PGF, KIF11, G protein subunits, and miR-136, miR-374 may all be involved in angiogenesis, retinal endothelial cell proliferation, and visual signal transduction in proliferative DR. This study provides a number of novel insights that may aid the development of future studies dedicated to discovering novel therapeutic targets in proliferative DR.

Abstract Background Many studies have found that the hippocampus plays a very important role in major depressive disorder (MDD). The hippocampus can be divided into three subfields: the cornu ammonis (CA), dentate gyrus (DG) and subiculum. Each subfield of the hippocampus has a unique function and are differentially associated with the pathological mechanisms of MDD. However, no research exists to describe the resting state functional connectivity of each hippocampal subfield in MDD. Methods Fifty-five patients with MDD and 25 healthy controls (HCs) matched for gender, age and years of education were obtained. A seed-based method that imposed a template on the whole brain was used to assess the resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) of each hippocampal subfield. Results Patients with MDD demonstrated increased connectivity in the left premotor cortex (PMC) and reduced connectivity in the right insula with the CA seed region. Increased connectivity was reported in the left orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) and left ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (vlPFC) with the DG seed region. The subiculum seed region revealed increased connectivity with the left premotor cortex (PMC), the right middle frontal gyrus (MFG), the left ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (vlPFC) and reduced connectivity with the right insula. ROC curves confirmed that the differences between groups were statistically significant. Conclusion The results suggest that the CA, DG and subiculum have significant involvement with MDD. Specifically, the abnormal functional connectivity of the CA may be related to bias of coding and integration of information in patients with MDD. The abnormal functional connectivity of the DG may be related to the impairment of working memory in patients with MDD, and the abnormal functional connectivity of the subiculum may be related to cognitive impairment and negative emotions in patients with MDD.

Abstract Background Hypertension is a highly prevalent disease and the leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Metabolic syndrome could also be the risk factor for CKD. We sought to study the association between metabolic syndrome components and the prevalence of CKD in patients with hypertension. Methods We carried out a multi-center cross-sectional study from Apr. 2017- Apr. 2018 in 15 cities in China. Results A total of 2484 patients with hypertension were enrolled. Among them, 56% were male and the average age was 65.12 ± 12.71 years. The systolic BP/diastolic BP was 142 ± 18/83 ± 12 mmHg. Metabolic syndrome components turned out to be highly prevalent in patients with hypertension, ranging from 40 to 58%. The prevalence of chronic kidney disease reached 22.0%. Multi-variate logistic analysis revealed that elevated triglyceride (TG) (OR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.28–2.57, p

Abstract Background Exosomes from cancer cells or immune cells, carrying bio-macromolecules or microRNAs (miRNAs), participate in tumor pathogenesis and progression by modulating microenvironment. Our study aims to investigate the role of these microRNA-501-3p (miR-501-3p) containing exosomes derived from tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) in the progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Methods Firstly, the function of TAM recruitment in PDAC tissues was assessed, followed by identification of the effects of M2 macrophage-derived exosomes on PDAC cell activities and tumor formation and metastasis in mice. In silico analysis was conducted to predict differentially expressed genes and regulatory miRNAs related to PDAC treated with macrophages, which determined miR-501-3p and TGFBR3 for subsequent experiments. Next, gain- and loss-of-function experiments were performed to examine their role in PDAC progression with the involvement of the TGF-β signaling pathway. Results TAM recruitment in PDAC tissues was associated with metastasis. Highly expressed miR-501-3p was observed in PDAC tissues and TAM-derived exosomes. Both M2 macrophage-derived exosomes and miR-501-3p promoted PDAC cell migration and invasion, as well as tumor formation and metastasis in nude mice. MiR-501-3p was verified to target TGFBR3. PDAC cells presented with down-regulated TGFBR3, which was further decreased in response to M2 macrophage treatment. TGF-β signaling pathway activation was implicated in the promotion of miR-501-3p in PDAC development. The suppression of macrophage-derived exosomal miR-501-3p resulted in the inhibition of tumor formation and metastasis in vivo. Conclusion M2 macrophage-derived exosomal miR-501-3p inhibits tumor suppressor TGFBR3 gene and facilitates the development of PDAC by activating the TGF-β signaling pathway, which provides novel targets for the molecular treatment of PDAC.

Abstract Background Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common cancers in male worldwide. Oxidative stress has been recognized as one of the driving signals pathologically linked to PCa progression. Nevertheless, the association of oxidative stress with PCa progression remains unclear. Methods Western blot, q-RT-PCR and bioinformatics analyses were used to examine PAGE4 expression. Comet assay and Annexin V/ PI dual staining assay were performed to investigate DNA damage and cell death under oxidative stress. Mouse xenograft model of PCa cells was established to verify the role of PAGE4 in vivo. Transcriptomic analysis was performed to investigate the underlying mechanism for the function of PAGE4 under oxidative stress. Western blot assay was conducted to determine the status of MAPK pathway. Immunohistochemistry was used to identify protein expression of PAGE4 in tumor tissues. Results In this study, we found that PAGE4 expression was increased in PCa cells under oxidative stress condition. PAGE4 overexpression protected PCa cells from oxidative stress-inducing cell death by reducing DNA damage. PAGE4 overexpression promoted PCa cells growth in vivo. Mechanistically, PAGE4 promoted the survival of prostate cancer cells through regulating MAPK pathway which reflected in decreasing the phosphorylation of MAP2K4, JNK and c-JUN but increasing phosphorylation of ERK1/2. Conclusion Our findings indicate that PAGE4 protects PCa cells from DNA damage and apoptosis under oxidative stress by modulating MAPK signalling pathway. PAGE4 expression may serve as a prognostic biomarker for clinical applications.

Abstract Background Combined anthracycline-trastuzumab chemotherapy has been associated with LV dysfunction. We aimed to assess early changes in left ventricular (LV) and right ventricular (RV) mechanics associated with combined anthracycline-trastuzumab treatment for breast cancer. As well as explore whether early changes in 2-dimensional (2D)–speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) could predict later chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity. Methods Sixty-six patients with breast cancer who received anthracycline-trastuzumab treatment were included (mean [±SD] age, 52 [9] years). Echocardiograms were available for analysis with 2D-STE at the following time points: pretreatment (T0), first cycle (T1), and second cycle (T2) of combined chemotherapy. All patients had a normal pretreatment LV ejection fraction (LVEF). Cardiotoxicity was defined as a decrease in LVEF of at least 10 percentage points from baseline on follow-up echocardiography. Results Cardiotoxicity developed in 13 of the 66 patients (20%). The mean (±SD) LVEF at T0 was 66% (±6); at T1 60% (±7); and at T2, 54% (±6). For the 53 patients without cardiotoxicity, the LVEF was 65% (±4%) at T0, 63% (±5%) at T1, and 62% (±4) at T2. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) at T1 was the strongest indicator of subsequent cardiotoxicity (area under the curve, 0.85; cutoff value, − 14.06; sensitivity, 91%; specificity, 83%; P = .003). Compared with baseline (T0), left ventricular longitudinal strain, LV circumferential strain, circumferential peak systolic strain rate (SR), circumferential peak early diastolic SR, right ventricular longitudinal strain, and longitudinal peak systolic SR at T1 and T2 were reduced significantly in patients with cardiotoxicity (P

Abstract Background Behcet’s disease (BD) is a recalcitrant, multisystemic inflammatory disease that can lead to irreversible blindness. Microbial agents have been considered to contribute to the pathogenesis of this disease, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the association of gut microbiome composition with BD as well as its possible roles in the development of this disease. Methods Fecal and saliva samples were collected from 32 active BD patients and 74 healthy controls. DNA extracted from fecal samples was subjected to metagenomic analysis, whereas DNA extracted from saliva samples was subjected to 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis. The results were used to compare the composition and biological function of the microbiome between patients and healthy controls. Lastly, transplantation of pooled fecal samples from active BD patients into B10RIII mice undergoing experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) was performed to determine the causal relationship between the gut microbiome and BD. Results Fecal samples from active BD patients were shown to be enriched in Bilophila spp., a sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) and several opportunistic pathogens (e.g., Parabacteroides spp. and Paraprevotella spp.) along with a lower level of butyrate-producing bacteria (BPB) Clostridium spp. and methanogens (Methanoculleus spp. Methanomethylophilus spp.). Analysis of microbial functions revealed that capsular polysaccharide transport system, oxidation-reduction process, type III, and type IV secretion systems were also increased in active BD patients. Network analysis showed that the BD-enriched SRB and opportunistic pathogens were positively correlated with each other, but they were negatively associated with the BPB and methanogens. Animal experiments revealed that fecal microbiota transplantation with feces from BD patients significantly exacerbated EAU activity and increased the production of inflammatory cytokines including IL-17 and IFN-γ. Conclusions Our findings revealed that BD is associated with considerable gut microbiome changes, which is corroborated by a mouse study of fecal microbiota transplants. A model explaining the association of the gut microbiome composition with BD pathogenesis is proposed.

Abstract Background Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis, Jacq.) is the most important source of edible oil. The improvement of oil yield is currently slow in conventional breeding programs due to long generation intervals. Marker-assisted selection (MAS) has the potential to accelerate genetic improvement. To identify DNA markers associated with oil content traits for MAS, we performed quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping using genotyping by sequencing (GBS) in a breeding population derived from a cross between Deli Dura and Ghana Pisifera, containing 153 F1 trees. Results We constructed a high-density linkage map containing 1357 SNPs and 123 microsatellites. The 16 linkage groups (LGs) spanned 1527 cM, with an average marker space of 1.03 cM. One significant and three suggestive QTL for oil to bunch (O/B) and oil to dry mesocarp (O/DM) were mapped on LG1, LG8, and LG10 in a F1 breeding population, respectively. These QTL explained 7.6–13.3% of phenotypic variance. DNA markers associated with oil content in these QTL were identified. Trees with beneficial genotypes at two QTL for O/B showed an average O/B of 30.97%, significantly (P