Carboxymethyl chitosan composited poly(ethylene oxide) electrolyte with high ion conductivity and interfacial stability for lithium metal batteries.

Low ionic conductivity and poor interface stability of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) restrict the practical application as polymeric electrolyte films to prepare solid-state lithium (Li) metal batteries. In this work, biomass-based carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) is designed and developed as organic fillers into PEO matrix to form composite electrolytes (PEO@CMCS). Carboxymethyl groups of CMCS fillers can promote the decomposition of Lithium bis(trifluoromethane sulfonimide) (LiTFSI) to generate more lithium fluoride (LiF) at CMCS/PEO interface, which not only forms ionic conductive network to promote the rapid transfer of Li+ but also effectively enhances the interface stability between polymeric electrolyte and Li metal. The enrichment of carboxyl, hydroxyl, and amidogen functional groups within CMCS fillers can form hydrogen bonds with ethylene oxide (EO) chains to improve the tensile properties of PEO-based electrolyte. In addition, the high hardness of CMCS additives can also strengthen mechanical properties of PEO-based electrolyte to resist penetration of Li dendrites. LiLi symmetric batteries can achieve stable cycle for 2500 h and lithium iron phosphate full batteries can maintain 135.5 mAh g-1 after 400 cycles. This work provides a strategy for the enhancement of ion conductivity and interface stability of PEO-based electrolyte, as well as realizes the resource utilization of biomass-based CMCS.

Structural, developmental and functional analyses of leaf salt glands of mangrove recretohalophyte Aegiceras corniculatum.

Salt secretion is an important strategy used by the mangrove plant Aegiceras corniculatum to adapt to the coastal intertidal environment. However, the structural, developmental and functional analyses on the leaf salt glands, particularly the salt secretion mechanism, are not well documented. In this study, we investigated the structural, developmental and degenerative characteristics and the salt secretion mechanisms of salt glands to further elucidate the mechanisms of salt tolerance of A. corniculatum. The results showed that the salt gland cells have a large number of mitochondria and vesicles, and plenty of plasmodesmata as well, while chloroplasts were found in the collecting cells. The salt glands developed early and began to differentiate at the leaf primordium stage. We observed and defined three stages of salt gland degradation for the first time in A. corniculatum, where the secretory cells gradually twisted and wrinkled inward and collapsed downward as the salt gland degeneration increased and the intensity of salt gland autofluorescence gradually diminished. In addition, we found that the salt secretion rate of the salt glands increased when the treated concentration of NaCl increased, reaching the maximum at 400 mM NaCl. The salt-secreting capacity of the salt glands of the adaxial epidermis is significantly greater than that of the abaxial epidermis. The real-time quantitative PCR results indicate that SAD2, TTG1, GL2 and RBR1 may be involved in regulating the development of the salt glands of A. corniculatum. Moreover, Na+/H+ antiporter, H+-ATPase, K+ channel and Cl- channel may play important roles in the salt secretion of salt glands. In sum mary, this study strengthens the understanding of the structural, developmental and degenerative patterns of salt glands and salt secretion mechanisms in mangrove recretohalophyte A. corniculatum, providing an important reference for further studies at the molecular level.

Combined metabolome and transcriptome analysis reveals a critical role of lignin biosynthesis and lignification in stem-like pneumatophore development of the mangrove Avicennia marina.

MAIN CONCLUSION: Transcriptional and metabolic regulation of lignin biosynthesis and lignification plays crucial roles in Avicennia marina pneumatophore development, facilitating its adaptation to coastal habitats. Avicennia marina is a pioneer mangrove species in coastal wetland. To cope with the periodic intertidal flooding and hypoxia environment, this species has developed a complex and extensive root system, with its most unique feature being a pneumatophore with a distinct above- and below-ground morphology and vascular structure. However, the characteristics of pneumatophore lignification remain unknown. Studies comparing the anatomy among above-ground pneumatophore, below-ground pneumatophore, and feeding root have suggested that vascular structure development in the pneumatophore is more like the development of a stem than of a root. Metabolome and transcriptome analysis illustrated that the accumulation of syringyl (S) and guaiacyl (G) units in the pneumatophore plays a critical role in lignification of the stem-like structure. Fourteen differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) and 10 differentially expressed genes involved in the lignin biosynthesis pathway were targeted. To identify genes significantly associated with lignification, we analyzed the correlation between 14 genes and 8 metabolites and further built a co-expression network between 10 transcription factors (TFs), including 5 for each of MYB and NAC, and 23 enzyme-coding genes involved in lignin biosynthesis. 4-Coumarate-CoA ligase, shikimate/quinate hydroxycinnamoyl transferase, cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase, caffeic acid 3-O-methyltransferase, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, and peroxidase were identified to be strongly correlated with these TFs. Finally, we examined 9 key candidate genes through quantitative real-time PCR to validate the reliability of transcriptome data. Together, our metabolome and transcriptome findings reveal that lignin biosynthesis and lignification regulate pneumatophore development in the mangrove species A. marina and facilitate its adaptation to coastal habitats.

Leaf sodium homeostasis controlled by salt gland is associated with salt tolerance in mangrove plant Avicennia marina.

Avicennia marina, a mangrove plant growing in coastal wetland habitats, is frequently affected by tidal salinity. To understand its salinity tolerance, the seedlings of A. marina were treated with 0, 200, 400 and 600 mM NaCl. We found the whole-plant dry weight and photosynthetic parameters increased at 200 mM NaCl but decreased over 400 mM NaCl. The maximum quantum yield of primary photochemistry (Fv/Fm) significantly decreased at 600 mM NaCl. Transmission electron microscopy observations showed high salinity caused the reduction in starch grain size, swelling of the thylakoids and separation of the granal stacks, and even destruction of the envelope. In addition, the dense protoplasm and abundant mitochondria in the secretory and stalk cells, and abundant plasmodesmata between salt gland cells were observed in the salt glands of the adaxial epidermis. At all salinities, Na+ content was higher in leaves than in stems and roots; however, Na+ content increased in the roots while it remained at a constant level in the leaves over 400 mM NaCl treatment, due to salt secretion from the salt glands. As a result, salt crystals on the leaf adaxial surface increased with salinity. On the other hand, salt treatment increased Na+ and K+ efflux and decreased H+ efflux from the salt glands by the non-invasive micro-test technology, although Na+ efflux reached the maximum at 400 mM NaCl. Further real-time quantitative PCR analysis indicated that the expression of Na+/H+ antiporter (SOS1 and NHX1), H+-ATPase (AHA1 and VHA-c1) and K+ channel (AKT1, HAK5 and GORK) were up-regulated, and only the only Na+ inward transporter (HKT1) was down-regulated in the salt glands enriched adaxial epidermis of the leaves under 400 mM NaCl treatment. In conclusion, salinity below 200 mM NaCl was beneficial to the growth of A. marina, and below 400 mM, the salt glands could excrete Na+ effectively, thus improving its salt tolerance.

Hydrogen sulfide upregulates the alternative respiratory pathway in mangrove plant Avicennia marina to attenuate waterlogging-induced oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage in a calcium-dependent manner.

Hydrogen sulfide (H2 S) is considered to mediate plant growth and development. However, whether H2 S regulates the adaptation of mangrove plant to intertidal flooding habitats is not well understood. In this study, sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS) was used as an H2 S donor to investigate the effect of H2 S on the responses of mangrove plant Avicennia marina to waterlogging. The results showed that 24-h waterlogging increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cell death in roots. Excessive mitochondrial ROS accumulation is highly oxidative and leads to mitochondrial structural and functional damage. However, the application of NaHS counteracted the oxidative damage caused by waterlogging. The mitochondrial ROS production was reduced by H2 S through increasing the expressions of the alternative oxidase genes and increasing the proportion of alternative respiratory pathway in the total mitochondrial respiration. Secondly, H2 S enhanced the capacity of the antioxidant system. Meanwhile, H2 S induced Ca2+ influx and activated the expression of intracellular Ca2+ -sensing-related genes. In addition, the alleviating effect of H2 S on waterlogging can be reversed by Ca2+ chelator and Ca2+ channel blockers. In conclusion, this study provides the first evidence to explain the role of H2 S in waterlogging adaptation in mangrove plants from the mitochondrial aspect.

Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bacteroides fragilis Induced Differential Immune Regulation of Enteric Glial Cells Subjected to Exogenous Inflammatory Stimulation.

Enteric glial cells (EGCs) are involved in intestinal inflammation. In this study, we will investigate how Bifidobacterium bifidum (B.b.) and Bacteroides fragilis (B.f.) influence EGC regulation. After pretreatment with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ), the expressions of major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC-II), CD80, CD86, glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), toll-like receptor 2 (TLR-2), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in EGCs were detected using polymerase chain reaction and western blot after co-culture with the supernatants of B.b. or B.f. (multiplicity of infection, 40:1 or 80:1). Finally, EGCs were co-cultured with naive CD4+ T cells, and the expressions of interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-10, and IL-17 in supernatant were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The mRNA expressions of MHC-II and CD86 in EGCs were increased after combined stimulation with LPS and IFN-γ. The expressions of MHC-II, GDNF, TLR-2, and TNF-α were all significantly upregulated in stimulated EGCs. The B.b. supernatant downregulated the expressions of MHC-II, GDNF, TLR-2, and TNF-α in stimulated EGCs, whereas the B.f. supernatant upregulated TLR-2 expression and downregulated MHC-II expression. The expressions of IL-4, IL-2, and IL-17 after co-culture of naive CD4+ T cells and stimulated EGCs were significantly increased. The supernatant of B.b. or B.f. downregulated the expressions of these cytokines. The low-concentration B.b. supernatant upregulated IL-10 expression. Conclusions B.b. and B.f. may influence intestinal inflammation by regulating MHC-II, GDNF, TLR-2, and TNF-α expression in EGCs and IL-4, IL-2, IL-17, and IL-10 secretion.

The Influence of Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bacteroides fragilis on Enteric Glial Cell-Derived Neurotrophic Factors and Inflammasome.

Enteric glial cells (EGCs) and enteric glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) are directly involved in intestinal inflammation. In this study, we sought to examine the possible mechanisms for how Bifidobacterium bifidum (B.b.) and Bacteroides fragilis (B.f.) influence EGC regulation. In this study, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) were used as exogenous stimuli of EGCs to establish an intestinal inflammation model. After stimulation with LPS and IFN-γ, B.b. and B.f. supernatants were used to activate EGCs and to examine EGC immune mechanisms. For this purpose, qRT-PCR, western blotting, and laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) were used to detect the expression of NLRP3, NLRP6, NGF, NT-3, IL-18, IL-1ß, and caspase-1. We found that EGCs, after stimulation with LPS and IFN-γ, could express NLRP3, NLRP6, NT-3, NGF, IL-18, IL-1ß, and caspase-1 through LSCM. In intestinal inflammation, B.b. and B.f. could trigger an increase in NGF and NT-3 expression in EGCs in order to protect the intestine. Furthermore, B.b. and B.f. could upregulate NLRP3 expression in EGCs and promote an inflammatory response. B.b. had a dual regulatory role in EGC NLRP6 expression, while B.f. inhibited NLRP6 protein expression. Moreover, B.b. could decrease the expression of IL-18, IL-1ß, and caspase-1 in EGCs in order to inhibit the inflammatory response. Contrary to this, B.f. could upregulate IL-18, IL-1ß, and caspase-1 expression in EGCs in order to promote the inflammatory response. B.b. and B.f. can influence the expression of NGF, NT-3, NLRP3, NLRP6, IL-18, IL-1ß, and caspase-1 in EGCs in order to inhibit or promote intestinal inflammation.

Surgery-induced downregulation of hippocampal sirtuin-1 contributes to cognitive dysfunction by inhibiting autophagy and activating apoptosis in aged mice.

OBJECTIVES: Elderly patients often suffer from cognitive dysfunction following surgery. However, the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon still remain unclear. This study investigated the critical part of Sirtuin-1 (SIRT1)-mediated autophagy and apoptosis in surgery-induced cognitive impairment. METHODS: The aged (16-month-old) male C57BL/6 mice underwent anesthesia and surgery. Some mice received intraperitoneal injections of resveratrol, which is an activator of SIRT1, prior to exposure to splenectomy. To examine learning and memory behavior in different sets, the study performed a Morris water maze. Tissues from the hippocampus were harvested 1, 3 and 7 days after surgery. Western blotting and immunofluorescence analysis determined the expression of autophagy- and apoptosis- associated protein. RESULTS: This article demonstrated surgery but not anesthesia considerably affected memory behavior and downregulated SIRT1 expression in the aged mice. Interestingly, rescue of hippocampal SIRT1 expression ameliorated the cognitive impairment in the elderly mice under splenectomy. In addition, surgical trauma decreased Beclin-1 protein levels and the LC3-II/LC3-I ratio, while expression of p62, Bax and cleaved caspase-3 in hippocampal neurons increased. However, rescue of hippocampal SIRT1 expression considerably attenuated the surgery-induced downregulation of Beclin-1, increased the ratio of LC3-II/LC3-I, and decreased expression of p62, Bax, and cleaved caspase-3. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that surgery-induced downregulation of hippocampal SIRT1 participates in cognitive impairment after surgery by inhibiting the autophagy process and activating apoptosis.

Inhibition of microRNA-132 attenuates inflammatory response and detrusor fibrosis in rats with interstitial cystitis via the JAK-STAT signaling pathway.

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a heterogeneous syndrome with unknown etiology, and microRNAs (miRs) were found to be involved in IC. In our study, we aim to explore the role of miR-132 in the inflammatory response and detrusor fibrosis in IC through the Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) signaling pathway in rat models. A rat model of IC was established and treated with the miR-132 mimic, miR-132 inhibitor, and/or JAK-STAT signaling pathway inhibitor AG490. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was applied to measure the expression of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, interferon-γ (IFN-γ), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). The urodynamic test was performed to assess urodynamic parameters, and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis for the expression of miR-132, STAT4, suppressors of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3), JAK2, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), IFN-γ, and TNF-α. IC rats treated with miR-132 inhibitor and AG490 had decreased collagen fiber, inflammatory cell infiltration, and mast cells, lower expression of IL-6, IL-10, IFN-γ, TNF-α, ICAM-1, collagens I and III, and alleviated urodynamic parameters and decreased expression of STAT4, VEGF, JAK2, IFN-γ, TNF-α, and increased expression of SOCS3. Taken together, our data indicate that downregulation of miR-132 alleviates inflammatory response and detrusor fibrosis in IC via the inhibition of the JAK-STAT signaling pathway.

Association of interleukin-32 gene polymorphism and its serum levels with genetic susceptibility in patients with multiple sclerosis / 中国免疫学杂志

Objective:To investigate interleukin-32 (IL-32)(rs28372698A/T,rs12934561C/T and rs11861531C/T) genetic susceptibility in patients with multiple sclerosis(MS)by case-control study,which provides a theoretical foundation for high-risk population with MS.Methods:A total 580 MS patients and 650 healthy controls were included in this study,polymerase chain reaction-single base extension (PCR-SEB) was used to test DNA sequencing,and serum levels of IL-32 were determined by enzyme-linked im-munosorbent assay.Results:The genotype and allele frequency of IL-32 (rs28372698A/T) had significantly differences compared with healthy controls (P=0.007,P=0.033),however,there were no statistical differences in rs12934561C/T and rs11861531C/T between the two groups (P>0.05).T-T-T haploid genotype in patients with MS was higher than control groups(P=0.012),and T-T-T haploid genotype was associated with increased risk of MS(OR=1.968,95% CI:1.968-1.352).Serum levels of IL-32 in patients with MS was increased compared with control groups[(399.08 ± 156.85)pg/ml vs (239.99 ± 88.35)pg/ml,P= 0.001].The serum IL-32 concentrations in MS patients with AT and TT genotype were higher compared with MS patient with AA genotype[(465.53±172.40) pg/ml vs(295.86±103.96)pg/ml,P<0.01;(491.15±133.65)pg/ml vs(295.86±103.96)pg/ml,P<0.01].Conclusion:Our study found that an association between IL-32(rs28372698) gene polymorphism and MS,and serum levels of IL-32 were influenced by IL-32 gene polymorphism in patients with MS,suggesting a theoretical basis for individualized diagnosis and treatment of MS patients.

Staging diagnosis and treatment for pulmonary infection after renal transplantation can improve the stability of transplanted renal functions / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND: Progress of lung infection after kidney transplantation is rapid, and the adjustment of immunosuppressive drugs is critical, which related to the prognosis of pneumonia and the maintenance of renal function. Therefore, an accurate diagnosis for the pneumonitis post-kidney transplantation is of great significance for choosing the appropriate treatment scheme. OBJECTIVE: To summarize the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary infection at different periods after kidney transplantation, and then to explore the proper treatment scheme. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 178 cases of pulmonary infection at different periods after kidney transplantation was performed. According to the progress of patients with lung inflammation, the lung infection was divided into three phases: early, advanced, and phases, and then given different immunosuppressive treatments combined with glucocorticoids; for those with unclear pathogens, given broad-spectrum antibiotics, antiviral, anti-fungal and other drugs, and targeted anti-infective treatment was underwent once pathogen was confirmed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) There were 178 patients with pulmonary infection after kidney transplantation, 90 cases occurred at postoperative 1-6 months (78 cases at postoperative 2-4 months), 16 cases occurred at postoperative 6-12 months, 14 cases occurred at postoperative 12-24 months, 12 cases occurred at postoperative 24-36 months, and 46 cases occurred at postoperative more than 36 months. (2) The clinical symptoms of pulmonary infection at the early stage were not obvious, fever was the earliest or primary symptom, and sometimes it was the only symptom. In some cases, the patients appeared with dry cough, expectoration with white mucous sputum, and the amount of sputum increased if infected with mixed bacteria or fungus. But the pulmonary signs are unobvious, and the main imageology feature of lung tissues showed interstitial inflammation. (3) Totally 173 patients were cured, the recovery rate reached to 97.2% and the curative efficacy was satisfactory. (4) Among five patients who dead from pulmonary infection, three were died from acute respiratory failure, and two were for multiple organ failure. Three patients presented with acute rejection to transplant kidney and were cured, and six patients suffered impaired renal function. (5) These results suggest that there is potential risk for pulmonary infection after renal transplantation and it develops rapidly. Based on the situation of pulmonary infection, the physicians can adjust the dose of immunosuppressor and hormone in time, so as to improve the immunosuppressive state and clarify the pathogen for pulmonary infection, then corresponding treatment for anti-infection will be offered, which is beneficial to increase the recovery rate of pulmonary infection and improve the stability of transplanted renal functions.

TGF-ß/MAPK signaling mediates the effects of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells on urinary control and interstitial cystitis after urinary bladder transplantation.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore the role of the transforming growth factor-ß/mitogen activated protein kinase (TGF-ß/MAPK) signaling pathway in the effects of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) on urinary control and interstitial cystitis in a rat model of urinary bladder transplantation. METHODS: A urinary bladder transplantation model was established using Sprague-Dawley rats. Rats were assigned to normal (blank control), negative control (phosphate-buffered saline injection), BMSCs (BMSC injection), sp600125 (MAPK inhibitor injection), or protamine sulfate (protamine sulfate injection) groups. Immunohistochemistry, urodynamic testing, hematoxylin-eosin staining, Western blotting, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and MTT assay were used to assess BMSC growth, the kinetics of bladder urinary excretion, pathological changes in bladder tissue, bladder tissue ultrastructure, the expression of TGF-ß/MAPK signaling pathway-related proteins, levels of inflammatory cytokines, and the effects of antiproliferative factor on cell proliferation. RESULTS: Compared with normal, negative control, BMSCs, and sp600125 groups, rats in the PS group exhibited decreased discharge volume, maximal micturition volume, contraction interval, and bladder capacity but increased residual urine volume, bladder pressure, bladder peak pressure, expression of TGF-ß/MAPK signaling pathway-related proteins, levels of inflammatory cytokines, and growth inhibition rate. Levels of inflammatory cytokines and the growth inhibition rate were positively correlated with the expression of TGF-ß/MAPK signaling pathway-related proteins. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings demonstrate that the TGF-ß/MAPK signaling pathway mediates the beneficial effects of BMSCs on urinary control and interstitial cystitis.

Ureteroscopy and cystoscopy training: comparison between transparent and non-transparent simulators.

BACKGROUND: Simulators have been widely used to train operational skills in urology, how to improve its effectiveness deserves further investigation. In this paper, we evaluated training using a novel transparent anatomic simulator, an opaque model or no simulator training, with regard to post-training ureteroscopy and cystoscopy proficiency. METHODS: Anatomically correct transparent and non-transparent endourological simulators were fabricated. Ten experienced urologists provided a preliminary evaluation of the models as teaching tools. 36 first-year medical students underwent identical theoretical training and a 50-point examination of theoretical knowledge. The students were randomly assigned to receive training with the transparent simulator (Group 1), the non-transparent simulator (Group 2) or detailed verbal instruction only (Group 3). 12 days after the training session, the trainees' skills at ureteral stent insertion and removal were evaluated using the Uro-Scopic Trainer and rated on an Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) scale. RESULTS: The new simulators were successfully fabricated in accordance with the design parameters. Of the ten urologists invited to evaluate the devices, 100% rated the devices as anatomically accurate, 90% thought both models were easy to use and 80% thought they were good ureteroscopy and cystoscopy training tools. The scores on the theoretical knowledge test were comparable among the training groups, and all students were able to perform ureteral stent insertion and removal. The mean OSATS scores of groups 1, 2 and 3 were 21.83 ± 3.64, 18.50 ± 4.03 and 15.58 ± 2.23 points, respectively, (p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Simulator training allowed students to achieve higher ureteroscopic and cystoscopic proficiency, and transparent simulators were more effective than non-transparent simulators.

IL28B rs12980275 variant as a predictor of sustained virologic response to pegylated-interferon and ribavirin in chronic hepatitis C patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The IL-28B rs12979860 CC and rs8099917 TT genotypes were proved to be predictor for pegylated-interferon (PEG-IFN)/ribavirin (RBV)-treated hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients. However, there were no identical conclusions on rs12980275 polymorphism. Our aim is to perform a meta-analysis in order to determine the association between rs12980275 polymorphism of IL28B and the sustain viral response (SVR) of HCV patients with PEG-IFN/RBV therapy. METHODS: Studies were retrieved from PubMed and Chinese China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). Data were extracted by two investigators and analyzed using Stata 11.0 software. RESULTS: Sixteen articles, containing 19 independent studies were included in the analysis. The results showed that patients with AA genotype of rs12980275 achieved higher SVR than patients with AG/GG genotypes. The overall OR (95% CI) was 3.118 (2.146, 4.529). In subgroup analysis by ethnicity, the ORs (95% CIs) were 3.084 (1.454, 6.542) and 2.736 (1.863, 4.018) in Asian and Caucasian population, respectively. Another subgroup analysis by HCV genotype, the ORs (95% CIs) were 3.976 (2.568, 6.158), 1.462 (0.504, 4.240) and 1.489 (0.916, 2.421) in patients with HCV genotype 1/4, mix genotype, and HCV genotype 2/3, respectively. CONCLUSION: AA genotype of rs12980275 was a predictive factor for SVR in HCV patients with PEG-IFN/RBV treatment, especially in HCV genotype 1/4.

Decrease expression of microRNA-20a promotes cancer cell proliferation and predicts poor survival of hepatocellular carcinoma.

BACKGROUND: Growing evidences indicate microRNAs play important roles in cancer development, progression, metastasis and may constitute robust biomarkers for cancer prognosis. The aim of this study was to identify the clinical and functional association of microRNA-20a (miR-20a) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS: MiR-20a was detected using Taqman real-time polymerase chain reaction. Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional regression analyses were utilized to determine the association of miR-20a with survival of patients. The potential functions of miR-20a on proliferation were evaluated by proliferation and flow cytometry analysis. The direct target gene of miR-20a was also identified by luciferase reporter assays. RESULTS: MiR-20a was lower in primary HCC than normal liver, and were further decreased in those with post-liver transplantation (LT) HCC recurrence compared with those with non-recurrence (p = 0.001). Patients with lower miR-20a expression had significantly poorer recurrence-free survival (RFS, Log rank p < 0.001) and overall survival (OS, Log rank p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that lower miR-20a was an independent predictor of poor prognosis. MiR-20a restoration could suppress HepG2 and SMMC-7721 cells proliferation and induce cell cycle G1 arrest and apoptosis. Subsequent investigations revealed that miR-20a directly targeted myeloid cell leukemia sequence 1 (Mcl-1) and reduced the endogenous protein level of Mcl-1 in HCC cells. CONCLUSIONS: MiR-20a is decreased in HCCs and correlates with HCC recurrence and prognosis. Down-regulation of miR-20a increases the proliferation abilities of HCC cells. Our findings suggest miR-20a may represent a novel potential therapeutic target and biomarker for survival of HCC patients.

[Effect of modified Badenoch operation on the treatment of posterior urethral stricture].

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effects of modified pull-through operation (Badenoch operation) on the treatment of posterior urethral stricture. METHODS: From September 2001 to December 2010 traditional pull-through operation was Modified for two times in our center. A total of 129 patients with posttraumatic posterior urethral stricture resulting from pelvic fracture injury underwent the modified urethral pull-through operation. Stricture length was 1.5 to 5.3 cm (mean 2.9 cm). Of the patients 43 had undergone at least 1 previous failed management for stricture. In phase 1 (from September 2001 to January 2008), the improving items include: (1) The distal urethral end was stitched and tied to the catheter. (2) As catheter was inserted into bladder and 20 ml water was injected into catheter balloon, the distal urethral end was fixed in the proximal urethra and an overlaying of 1.5 cm was formed between the two ends. (3) Three weeks later, it was tried to insert the catheter to bladder. After the urethral stump necrosis and the catheter separating from the urethra, the catheter was removed. In phase 2 (from February 2008 to December 2010), based on the above, irrigating catheter was used. After the surgery, urethra was irrigated with 0.02% furacillin solution through the catheter 3 times a day. All patients were followed up for at least 6 months. If patients had no conscious dysuria and maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) > 15 ml/s, the treatment was considered successful. All complications were recorded. RESULTS: In phase 1, the 96 patients (101 times) underwent the procedure. The treatment was successful in 88 patients (success rate 92%). Within 1 to 13 days after removal of the catheter, urethral stricture was recurred in 8 patients. They had to undergo cystostomy once more for 3 to 11 months before reoperation (the 3 patients' reoperation was in phase 2). The 8 cases were treated successfully. In phase 2, 33 patients (total 36 times) underwent the procedure. One patient was failed (success rate 97%). The actual follow-up time is 7 to 93 months (An average of 37.6 months). Qmax is (22 ± 5) ml/s. No complications such as urinary incontinence, erectile pain, urinary shortening happened. CONCLUSIONS: The modified urethral pull-through operation is effective for the surgical treatment of posttraumatic posterior urethral stricture. It has a high success rate with durable long-term results. Complications are few. The procedure is simple, less demanding and especially suitable in patients who had previously undergone failed surgical treatments.

Renal vein lengthening using gonadal vein reduces surgical difficulty in living-donor kidney transplantation.

BACKGROUND: During living-donor kidney transplantation, to maximally decrease donor injury, the right kidney with lower glomerular filtration rate often is selected as the donor kidney. However, the renal vein of the right kidney is relatively short for transplantation. The gonadal vein is essentially useless and is easily accessed during the donor nephrectomy. METHODS: Seventeen live kidney donors received right kidney nephrectomy for living-donor kidney transplantation. Short renal veins were lengthened by circular anastomosis or spiral anastomosis of longitudinally cut gonadal veins. The renal function of receivers was evaluated using creatinine clearance. RESULTS: The renal veins were extended by 2.0-2.7 cm with circular anastomosis and 4.1-4.5 cm with spiral anastomosis with an average of 2.5 ± 0.7 cm. Lengthening of renal veins averaged 20.4 ± 4.2 min. All surgeries were successful, significantly reducing difficulty of vascular anastomosis during transplantation. No poor early graft function occurred. No side effects were observed in donors. CONCLUSIONS: When donor renal veins are too short for effective kidney transplantation and may affect reliability of vascular anastomosis, they can be lengthened by using gonadal veins without increasing injury to the donor. Successful extension of donor kidney renal veins expands the indication for right donor kidneys.

Effect of modified Badenoch operation on the treatment of posterior urethral stricture / 中华外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To determine the effects of modified pull-through operation (Badenoch operation) on the treatment of posterior urethral stricture.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>From September 2001 to December 2010 traditional pull-through operation was Modified for two times in our center. A total of 129 patients with posttraumatic posterior urethral stricture resulting from pelvic fracture injury underwent the modified urethral pull-through operation. Stricture length was 1.5 to 5.3 cm (mean 2.9 cm). Of the patients 43 had undergone at least 1 previous failed management for stricture. In phase 1 (from September 2001 to January 2008), the improving items include: (1) The distal urethral end was stitched and tied to the catheter. (2) As catheter was inserted into bladder and 20 ml water was injected into catheter balloon, the distal urethral end was fixed in the proximal urethra and an overlaying of 1.5 cm was formed between the two ends. (3) Three weeks later, it was tried to insert the catheter to bladder. After the urethral stump necrosis and the catheter separating from the urethra, the catheter was removed. In phase 2 (from February 2008 to December 2010), based on the above, irrigating catheter was used. After the surgery, urethra was irrigated with 0.02% furacillin solution through the catheter 3 times a day. All patients were followed up for at least 6 months. If patients had no conscious dysuria and maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) > 15 ml/s, the treatment was considered successful. All complications were recorded.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>In phase 1, the 96 patients (101 times) underwent the procedure. The treatment was successful in 88 patients (success rate 92%). Within 1 to 13 days after removal of the catheter, urethral stricture was recurred in 8 patients. They had to undergo cystostomy once more for 3 to 11 months before reoperation (the 3 patients' reoperation was in phase 2). The 8 cases were treated successfully. In phase 2, 33 patients (total 36 times) underwent the procedure. One patient was failed (success rate 97%). The actual follow-up time is 7 to 93 months (An average of 37.6 months). Qmax is (22 ± 5) ml/s. No complications such as urinary incontinence, erectile pain, urinary shortening happened.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>The modified urethral pull-through operation is effective for the surgical treatment of posttraumatic posterior urethral stricture. It has a high success rate with durable long-term results. Complications are few. The procedure is simple, less demanding and especially suitable in patients who had previously undergone failed surgical treatments.</p>

[Correlation and path analyses of phenotypic traits and body mass of transgenic carp with growth hormone gene of salmon].

Thirty 2-year old transgenic carp individuals with growth hormone gene of salmon were randomly selected to study the affecting degree of their phenotypic traits on their body mass by the methods of correlation and path analyses, with 30 individuals of non-transgenic carp as the control, aimed to ascertain the main phenotypic parameters affecting the body mass of the transgenic and non-transgenic carps. The test phenotypic traits were total length, body length, body height, least height of caudal peduncle, length of caudal peduncle, length of head, snout length, eyes horizontal diameter, inter-orbital distance, and body depth. Correlation analysis showed that for both of the transgenic and non-transgenic carps, most of the test phenotypic parameters were significantly correlated to body mass (P<0.01). Path analysis indicated that for transgenic carp, its body length and body height were the main predictable factors affecting body mass, with the path coefficient being 0.572 and 0.415, respectively, while for non-transgenic carp, its body depth and tail length were the main predictable factors affecting body mass, with the path coefficient being 0.610 and 0.377, respectively.

[Screening cold-acclimation differential expression candidate genes in the brain of common carp (Cyprinus carpio)].

In this study, 26 candidate genes were quantified and normalized in the brain cDNA of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) at 23°C and 6°C using double-standard curve method of real-time quantitative PCR. The results showed that five candidates up-regulated in the samples at 6°C (P<0.01) and quantified 2.11, 13.9, 2.52, 7.38, and 1.83 times more than in the samples at 23°C, respectively. Gene function searching indicated that the protein products of these five candidates were elongation of very long chain fatty acids protein, Acyl-CoA desaturase, Transcription initiation factor IIB, Myo-inositol- 1-phosphate synthase, and Blood-brain barrier HT7 antigen individually. Moreover, seven down-regulated candidates were also identified in the same samples at 6°C (P>0.05), and their expression levels were decreased by 21.8%, 25.9%, 16.6%, 23.7%, 15.8%, 16.3%, and 42.5%, respectively, in comparison with the samples at 23°C. These seven down-regulated candidates mainly participated in the inhibition of glycolysis, improvement of cell apoptosis, and intervention of synapse remodeling based on the results of function searching. The five cold-induced genes identified in this study will be used as important elements for fish with cold sensitive through transgenic technology in future.