Abstract Objective: To determine whether peripheral blood parameters have any predictive value for all-frequency Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL). Methods: We chose 78 individuals with all-frequency SSNHL who had been admitted to our department. They were divided into two groups: the effective group and the ineffective group. In patients with all-frequency SSNHL, the prognostic variables, including peripheral blood tests and clinical traits, were examined by a logistic regression analysis. In addition, the predictive value was carried out. Results: The effective rate of all-frequency SSNHL was 61.5%. Pre-treatment hearing level and the proportion of patients with diabetes were both significantly lower in the effective group than in the ineffective group (p = 0.024 and 0.000, respectively). The levels of fibrinogen and C-reactive protein were also significantly different between the two groups (p = 0.001 and 0.025, respectively). Pre-treatment hearing level and fibrinogen level both significantly impacted the prognosis of all-frequency SSNHL (p = 0.032 and 0.002, respectively), according to a logistic regression analysis. Furthermore, the prognosis was significantly predicted by both fibrinogen level and pre-treatment hearing level (p = 0.001 and 0.0002, respectively). The receiver operating characteristic curve showed that the fibrinogen level had a sensitivity of 85.4% and a specificity of 60.0% for predicting the prognosis of all-frequency SSNHL. Conclusion: For the prognosis of all-frequency SSNHL, the fibrinogen level can be regarded as a useful predictor. The level of C-reactive protein, however, does not have a significant prognostic effect on predicting all-frequency SSNHL. Therefore, more attention should be devoted to the level of fibrinogen in the acute period of all-frequency SSNHL. Level of Evidence: 4.

ABSTRACT Finger citron (Citrus medica L. var. sarcodactylis (Hoola van Nooten) Swingle; Rutaceae: Citrus) is an important plant for both medicine and food. Due to the lack of suitability analysis, many problems have arisen in its planting. According to the daily observation data, Kriging interpolation was selected to spatialize precipitation and temperature data. MaxEnt and ArcGIS were applied to simulate the suitable areas of finger citron in China from the perspectives of bioclimate, soil, topographic factors and human activities in 2050s and 2090s. Results showed that temperature annual range (Bio7), annual precipitation (Bio12), human footprint (Hf), elevation (El) and precipitation seasonality (Bio15) were identified as the dominant environmental variables related to the distribution of finger citron. Spatiotemporal distribution of annual precipitation (Bio12) showed that in the future, the precipitation in South China tends to decrease first (2050s) and then increase (2090s). The spatio-temporal analysis of temperature annual range (Bio7) showed that the 20-30 ℃ region was relatively stable in the Sichuan Basin and the middle and lower reaches of the Pearl River Basin. Under the future climate change scenarios, the total suitable area showed a significant increase trend in 2090s, and the change of most, moderately and poorly suitable habitats showed no obvious law. Under SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios, the centroid of the most suitable habitat of finger citron would move to the northwest, southeast and southwest respectively. Our results can effectively carry out to promote the recovery of its population.

Abstract A Qingzhi compound-flavor Baijiu (QZCF Baijiu) was developed and the physiochemical factors and microbial community structure in Jiupei (fermented grains) during Baijiu fermentation were revealed. Physiochemical factors of ethanol, moisture and acidity significantly increased in the fermentation, while starch and reducing sugar decreased. The results of high-throughput sequencing showed that Weissella, Pediococcus, Bacillus, Pantoea, Streptococcus, Sphingobacterium, Saccharomyces, Rhizopus, Issatchenkia and Wickerhamomyces were the dominant microorganisms in Jiupei. Moreover, correlation analysis between the physicochemical factors, the dominant microorganisms and the important flavor compounds in QZCF Baijiu production highlighted that the changes of physiochemical factors would lead to the corresponding changes of core microbiota and important flavor substances. Physiochemical factors of starch, reducing sugar and temperature could significantly affect the microbial community structure at the early stage of fermentation, while the influences of ethanol content and acidity became greater at the later stage, resulting in the differences of flavor compounds in Jiupei. Therefore, the growth and metabolism of microbial communities could be regulated by purposefully adjusting the physiochemical factors, thereby improving the flavor and quality of Baijiu. This work enriched the flavor types of Baijiu and provided a reference for the Baijiu-making industries to manage their production process.

Abstract Background: Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) presents antitumor effects against melanoma cells. It is known that various circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in the development of melanoma. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate the molecular mechanisms of ISL and circ_0002860. Methods: Circ_0002860, microRNA-431-5p (miR-431-5p) and member RAS oncogene family (RAB9A) were detected through reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) assay. Cell viability was examined via cell counting kit-8 assay. The proliferation ability was assessed using colony formation assay. Cell apoptosis and cell cycle were determined by flow cytometry. Transwell assay was used for detection of migration and invasion. Western blot was conducted for protein analysis. Target binding was confirmed via dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay. In vivo research was performed through xenograft tumor assay. Results: Circ_0002860 was downregulated by ISL in melanoma cells. ISL-induced inhibitory effects on cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, migration and invasion were alleviated by circ_0002860 overexpression. MiR-431-5p was a target of circ_0002860. Circ_0002860 eliminated the ISL-induced tumor inhibition via sponging miR-431-5p in melanoma cells. Circ_0002860 elevated the RAB9A level by targeting miR-431-5p. The function of ISL was related to miR-431-5p/RAB9A axis in melanoma progression. Tumor growth was reduced by ISL in vivo through downregulating circ_0002860 to regulate miR-431-5p and RAB9A levels. Conclusion: The current data indicates that ISL suppressed cell malignant progression of melanoma via targeting the circ_0002860/miR-431-5p/RAB9A pathway.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The physical condition of soccer players in sports competitions has improved over the years. The optimal performance of their professional skills in competitive conditions has become essential for victory in soccer matches. Objective: This paper explores the effects of different methods employing strength training on soccer kicking techniques aiming at the set that best enables the accuracy of hits through its stability. Methods: 36 soccer players were randomly divided into the experimental and control groups, with no statistical difference in fitness and the comprehensive ability characteristics of the players. Both subjects were trained for 12 weeks; only the experimental group received the special strength training intervention for stability. The passing score of the curve ball in 20-meter dribbling was measured before and after training. The data were statistically treated. Results: The kicking accuracy of soccer players in the experimental group differed from before the test (P<0.01). There was also a significant difference in kicking accuracy in the control group (P<0.05). The 20-meter arc dribbling scores in the experimental group were statistically significant compared to those before the test (P<0.05). There was no significant difference between the control group and the test scores on curve ball passing scores in 20-meter dribbling (P>0.05). Conclusion: Functional strength methods to achieve the goal of improving kicking accuracy in athletes have been developed. Coaches should pay attention to physical training, an attitude that encourages players to achieve sufficient physical strength for soccer games with their kicking skills. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.

RESUMEN Introducción: La condición física de los futbolistas en las competiciones deportivas ha ido mejorando a lo largo de los años y el rendimiento óptimo de sus habilidades profesionales en condiciones competitivas se ha convertido en un factor esencial para la victoria en los partidos de fútbol. Objetivo: Este trabajo explora los efectos de diferentes métodos que emplean el entrenamiento de la fuerza en las técnicas de pateo de fútbol con el objetivo de encontrar el conjunto que mejor permita la precisión de los golpes a través de su estabilidad. Métodos: Se dividieron aleatoriamente 36 jugadores de fútbol, sin diferencias estadísticas en cuanto a la aptitud física y las características de capacidad integral de los jugadores, en grupo experimental y grupo de control. Ambos grupos de sujetos fueron entrenados durante 12 semanas, sólo el grupo experimental recibió la intervención especial de entrenamiento de fuerza para la estabilidad. Se midió la puntuación del pase de la pelota curva en el regateo de 20 metros antes y después del entrenamiento. Los datos fueron tratados estadísticamente. Resultados: La precisión de las patadas de los futbolistas del grupo experimental fue diferente a la de antes de la prueba (P<0,01). También hubo una diferencia significativa en la precisión de las patadas en el grupo de control (P<0,05). Las puntuaciones del regateo en arco de 20 metros en el grupo experimental fueron estadísticamente significativas en comparación con las anteriores a la prueba (P<0,05). No hubo diferencias significativas entre el grupo de control y las puntuaciones de la prueba en las puntuaciones de los pases de balón curvo en el regateo de 20 metros (P>0,05). Conclusión: Se han desarrollado métodos de fuerza funcional para lograr el objetivo de mejorar la precisión de las patadas en los atletas. Los entrenadores deben prestar atención a la preparación física, una actitud que anima a los jugadores a conseguir la fuerza física suficiente para los partidos de fútbol con sus habilidades de pateo. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

RESUMO Introdução: A condição física dos jogadores de futebol nas competições esportivas tem se aprimorado ao longo dos anos e o desempenho ótimo de suas habilidades profissionais em condições competitivas tornou-se um fator essencial para a vitória nas partidas de futebol. Objetivo: Este artigo explora os efeitos de diferentes métodos empregando o treinamento de força sobre as técnicas de chute de futebol visando o conjunto que melhor capacita a precisão de acertos através de sua estabilidade. Métodos: 36 jogadores de futebol foram divididos aleatoriamente, sem diferença estatística de aptidão física e as características de capacidade abrangente dos jogadores, em grupo experimental e controle. Ambos os grupos de sujeitos foram treinados durante 12 semanas, somente o grupo experimental recebeu a intervenção especial de treinamento de força para estabilidade. A pontuação de passe da bola curva em drible de 20 metros foi medida antes e depois do treino. Os dados foram tratados estatisticamente. Resultados: A precisão do chute dos jogadores de futebol no grupo experimental foi diferente daquela antes do teste (P<0,01). Também houve uma diferença significativa na precisão de chutes no grupo de controle (P<0,05). As pontuações dos dribles de arco de 20 metros no grupo experimental foram estatisticamente significativas em comparação com aquelas antes do teste (P<0,05). Não houve diferença significativa entre o grupo de controle e os resultados do teste na pontuação de passe da bola curva em drible de 20 metros (P>0,05). Conclusão: Métodos de força funcional para alcançar o objetivo de melhorar a precisão de chute nos atletas foram desenvolvidos. Os treinadores devem prestar atenção ao treinamento físico, atitude que incentiva aos jogadores atingirem a força física suficiente para os jogos de futebol com suas habilidades de chute. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The exercise of functional strength in a sprinter can play an essential performance gain to propulsion. Functional training can significantly affect the sprinter, preventing injury and making better use of physical training. The sprint interval training method has been widely recognized and applied. Objective: This paper explores the effect of functional strength training by the sprint interval training method on the strength quality of sprinters. Methods: This paper uses random sampling to select 30 male college sprinters as research subjects. The volunteers were divided into two groups according to the performance of the 100-meter speed project: All the essential data of the subjects who passed the T-test were without statistical difference P>0.05. Both groups perform daily training. Functional strength training was added to the experimental group by interval start training with a full 12-week cycle. The strength data of the athletes were measured before and after the experiment, measured, and discussed statistically. Results: The indicators showed significant differences, except for the normal left supine position support test, unchanged by the presented intervention(P<0.01). After the experiment, all indicators were statistically significant compared to the control group (P<0.01). The performance of the groups in the ball exercise, static jump, and vertical jump was significantly improved (P<0.01). Conclusion: Functional strength exercise can improve sprinters’ body control and stability. The sprint interval method can also improve the speed of upward force transmission. This conclusion is significant for formulating the strength training plan designed for sprinters. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.

RESUMEN Introducción: El ejercicio de la fuerza funcional en los velocistas puede suponer una ganancia de rendimiento esencial para la propulsión. El entrenamiento funcional puede afectar significativamente al velocista, tanto en la prevención de lesiones como en el mejor aprovechamiento del entrenamiento físico. El método de entrenamiento por intervalos de sprint ha sido ampliamente reconocido y aplicado. Objetivo: Este artículo explora el efecto del entrenamiento de fuerza funcional mediante el método de entrenamiento de intervalos de sprint en la calidad de la fuerza de los velocistas. Métodos: Este artículo utiliza un muestreo aleatorio para seleccionar 30 velocistas universitarios como sujetos de investigación. Los voluntarios se dividieron en dos grupos según el rendimiento del proyecto de velocidad de 100 metros: Todos los datos básicos de los sujetos que superaron el test-T fueron sin diferencia estadística P>0,05. Ambos grupos realizan un entrenamiento diario. Al grupo experimental se le añadió el entrenamiento de fuerza funcional por intervalos de sprint con un ciclo completo de 12 semanas. Los datos de fuerza de los atletas se midieron antes y después del experimento, y se analizaron estadísticamente. Resultados: Los indicadores mostraron diferencias significativas, a excepción de la prueba normal de apoyo a la posición supina izquierda, no modificada por la intervención presentada (P<0,01). Tras el experimento, todos los indicadores fueron estadísticamente significativos en comparación con el grupo de control (P<0,01). El rendimiento de los grupos en el ejercicio con balón, el salto estático y el salto vertical mejoró significativamente (P<0,01). Conclusión: El ejercicio de fuerza funcional puede mejorar el control corporal y la estabilidad de los velocistas. El método de entrenamiento por intervalos de sprint también puede mejorar la velocidad de transmisión de la fuerza ascendente. Esta conclusión es significativa para la formulación en el plan de entrenamiento de fuerza para los velocistas. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

RESUMO Introdução: O exercício da força funcional no velocismo pode desempenhar um ganho de performance essencial à propulsão. O treinamento funcional pode afetar significativamente o velocista, tanto na prevenção de lesões quanto ao melhor aproveitamento do treinamento físico. O método de treinamento intervalado de arranque tem sido amplamente reconhecido e aplicado. Objetivo: Este artigo explora o efeito do treinamento de força funcional pelo método de treinamento intervalado de arranque sobre a qualidade da força dos velocistas. Métodos: Este artigo usa amostragem aleatória para selecionar 30 velocistas universitários masculinos como objetos de pesquisa. Os voluntários foram divididos em dois grupos de acordo com o desempenho do projeto de 100 metros de velocidade: Todos os dados essenciais dos sujeitos que passaram no teste T foram sem diferença estatística P>0,05. Ambos os grupos realizam um treinamento diário. Ao grupo experimental foi acrescentado o treinamento de força funcional pelo treinamento intervalado de arranque com ciclo completo de 12 semanas. Os dados de força dos atletas foram mensurados antes e após o experimento, mensurados e discutidos estatisticamente. Resultados: Os indicadores demonstraram diferenças significativas, exceto para o teste normal de apoio à posição supina esquerda, inalterado pela intervenção apresentada (P<0,01). Após o experimento, todos os indicadores foram estatisticamente significativos em comparação com o grupo controle (P<0,01). O desempenho dos grupos em exercício de bola, salto estático e salto vertical foram significativamente aprimorados (P<0,01). Conclusão: O exercício de força funcional pode melhorar o controle e a estabilidade corporal dos velocistas. O método de treinamento intervalado de arranque também pode melhorar a velocidade de transmissão de força ascendente. Essa conclusão é significativa para a formulação no plano de treinamento de força destinado à velocistas. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Currently, compound rapid stretching training has been explored by sports researchers. However, most research focuses on soccer, basketball, volleyball, and other sports that require vertical jump fitness, but little attention is paid to badminton. Objective: Study the influence of compound rapid stretching training on fitness in professional badminton athletes. Methods: By experimental and statistical methods, 16 outstanding college badminton players were randomly divided into composite training and control groups. The sports performance test (T-shaped run) and short-distance mobility test (5-10-5), were evaluated and compared before and after the intervention, adding a specific rapid stretching training protocol to the composite group. Results: Comparatively, the T-run and hexagonal jump tests were significantly improved in the composite group (P<0.01). The time required to complete the 5-10-5 moving test progressed from 3.980s to 3.763s, significantly longer than the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: 6-week training with rapid stretching was shown to significantly improve the fitness of college badminton athletes. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.

RESUMEN Introducción: En la actualidad, el entrenamiento compuesto de estiramiento rápido ha sido explorado por los investigadores deportivos, sin embargo, la mayoría de las investigaciones se centran en el fútbol, el baloncesto, el voleibol y otros deportes que requieren la aptitud de salto vertical, sin embargo, se presta poca atención al bádminton. Objetivo: Estudiar la influencia del entrenamiento de estiramientos rápidos compuestos en la condición física de los atletas profesionales de bádminton. Métodos: Mediante métodos experimentales y estadísticos, un total de 16 destacados jugadores universitarios de bádminton fueron divididos aleatoriamente en grupos de entrenamiento compuesto y de control. La prueba de rendimiento deportivo (carrera en forma de T) y la prueba de movilidad en distancias cortas (5-10-5), fueron evaluadas y comparadas antes y después de la intervención, que consistió en añadir un protocolo específico de entrenamiento de estiramiento rápido al grupo compuesto. Resultados: Comparativamente, las pruebas de carrera en T y de salto hexagonal mejoraron significativamente en el grupo compuesto (P<0,01). El tiempo requerido para completar la prueba de movimiento 5-10-5 pasó de 3,980s a 3,763s, lo que fue significativamente mayor que el del grupo de control (P<0,05). Conclusión: Se demostró que un entrenamiento de 6 semanas con estiramientos rápidos mejora significativamente la forma física de los atletas universitarios de bádminton. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

RESUMO Introdução: Atualmente, o treinamento composto de alongamento rápido tem sido explorado por pesquisadores esportivos, no entanto, a maioria das pesquisas se concentra no futebol, basquete, vôlei e outros esportes que exigem aptidão física de salto vertical, porém pouca atenção é dada ao badminton. Objetivo: Estudar a influência do treinamento composto de alongamento rápido sobre a aptidão física nos atletas profissionais de badminton. Métodos: Pelos métodos experimental e estatístico, um total de 16 jogadores de badminton universitários de destaque foram divididos aleatoriamente em grupos de treinamento composto e controle. O teste de desempenho esportivo (corrida em forma de T) e de mobilidade de curta distância (5-10-5), foram avaliados e comparados antes e após a intervenção, que consistiu na adição de um protocolo específico de treinamento de alongamento rápido ao grupo composto. Resultados: Comparativamente, os testes de corrida em T e de salto hexagonal foram significativamente aprimorados no grupo composto (P<0,01). O tempo necessário para completar o teste móvel de 5-10-5 progrediu de 3.980s para 3.763s, o que foi significativamente maior que o do grupo controle (P<0.05). Conclusão: O treinamento de 6 semanas com alongamento rápido demonstrou melhorar significativamente a aptidão física dos atletas universitários de badminton. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

ABSTRACT Introduction: A giant left atrium may cause respiratory dysfunction and hemodynamic disturbance postoperatively. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate clinical effects of surgical left atrial reduction in concomitant cardiac valves operations. Methods: One hundred and thirty-five patients with heart valve diseases and giant left atriums from January 2004 to July 2021 were enrolled into this research. They were divided into the folded group (n=63) and the unfolded group (n=72). Patients in the folded group had undergone cardiac valve operations concomitantly with left atrial reductions. The perioperative characteristics were compared between both groups, and subgroup analysis was performed. Results: There were five deaths in the folded group and 25 deaths in the unfolded group (P<0.001). Complications including pneumonia, sepsis, multiple organs dysfunction syndrome, low cardiac output syndrome, and the use of continuous renal replacement therapy were significantly fewer in the folded group. The receiver operating characteristic curve of left atrial max. diameter predicting mortality was significant (area under the curve=0.878, P=0.005), and the cutoff point was 96.5 mm. The stratified analysis for sex showed that more female patients died in the unfolded group. Logistic regression for mortality showed that the left atrium unfolded, left atrial max. diameter, cardiopulmonary bypass time, and mechanical ventilation time increased the risk of death. Conclusion: Surgical left atrial reduction concomitantly with valves replacement could decrease mortality and was safe and effective in giant left atrium patients.

Abstract Objective To investigate the indoor environmental risk factors to provide measures for the prevention and control of otitis in preschool children. Method In this cross-sectional study, a questionnaire survey was administered to preschool children aged 2-7 years from 60 kindergartens in six districts of Urumqi City in August 2019. Multiple regression was run to predict influence factors for otitis media in preschool children. Result A total of 8153 valid questionnaires were collected. After adjusting for age, the prevalence of otitis among preschool children in Urumqi was 13.1%. Multivariate logistic regression showed that previous antibiotic treatment, treatment with one to two antibiotics before 1 year of age, presence of walls with aqueous or latex paint, use of carpet floor bedding in rooms, newly decorated homes of mothers before pregnancy, purchase of new furniture for homes of children at 0-1 year of age, and presence of flowering plants in the residence of children at 0-1 years of age were all identified as risk factors for the development of otitis in children. Conclusion Parents should also pay attention to indoor living environments, and reduce indoor renovation in the homes of children during their growth and development, which can positively improve children's indoor living environment, thus effectively preventing otitis in preschool children.

Abstract Objective Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a disease associated with impaired quality of life and heredity. This study aimed to investigate the association of allergic rhinitis in preschool children with exposure to indoor environment-related factors early in life. Methods In August 2019, the authors implemented a study among 2020 preschool children in Urumqi City using a case-control design. The study included parental reports for the occurrence of AR in children, parental history of respiratory disease, and indoor environmental correlates of maternal exposure from 1 year prior to pregnancy until the child's age of 0-1 year. Results Mode of birth (cesarean section) (OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.02∼1.67), father with AR (OR = 2.67, 95% CI = 2.08∼3.44), mother with AR (OR = 3.70, 95% CI = 2.88∼4.74), mother with asthma (OR = 3.11, 95% CI = 1.18∼8.20), and mother with newly purchased furniture in the parents' residence during pregnancy (OR = 1.49, 95% CI = 1.03∼2.14) were risk factors for AR in children. Conclusions The focus of allergic rhinitis should be on children with a family history of AR and asthma and cesarean delivery. Primary prevention efforts for AR in preschool children are avoiding exposure of children to indoor environmental hazardous factors early in life.

Abstract Objective Osteoarthritis is a condition characterized by articular cartilage degradation. The increased expression of β1,4-Galactosyltransferase-I (β1,4-GalT-I) in the articular cartilage of osteoarthritis patients was related to an inflammatory response. The aim of this study was to elucidate the role of β1,4-GalT-I in osteoarthritis. This study aimed to determine the function of 1,4-GalT-I in osteoarthritis. Methods The osteoarthritis mouse model with the destabilization of the medial meniscus was established by microsurgical technique. Pathological changes in articular cartilage were observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining and safranin O-fast green staining. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, western blot, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were used to observe mRNA and protein expression, respectively. RNA interactions were verified by a luciferase reporter assay. SA-β-Gal staining was used to assess chondrocyte senescence. Immunofluorescence staining was conducted to observe the localization of Nuclear Factor-kappaB (NF-κB). Results β1,4-GalT-I and microRNA-15a (miR-15a) show high and low expression in the articular cartilage of osteoarthritis, respectively. MiR-15a inhibits the mRNA translation of β1,4-GalT-I. β1,4-GalT-I promotes extracellular matrix degradation, senescence, and NF-κB activation in IL-1β-stimulated chondrocytes, which can be reversed by overexpression of miR-15a. Intra-articular injection of microRNA-15a ameliorates cartilage degeneration by inhibiting β1,4-GalT-I and phosphorylation of NF-κB in vivo. Conclusion The authors clarified that the miR-15a/β1,4-GalT-I axis inhibits the phosphorylation of NF-κB thereby inhibiting extracellular matrix degradation and senescence in chondrocytes to alleviate cartilage degeneration in osteoarthritis. MiR-15a and β1,4-GalT-I may serve as potentially effective targets for the future treatment of osteoarthritis.

Abstract Objectives The pathological mechanisms of patients with Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) remain defined. This study aimed to evaluate relationships between the landscape of gene mutations and their clinical significance in RCC patients. Methods Tissue and peripheral blood samples of 42 patients with RCC were collected and performed for the Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) with Geneseeq PrimeTM 425-gene panel probes. Their landscapes of gene mutation were analyzed. We also carried out an evaluation of Tumor-Node-Metastasis (TNM) staging, RENAL nephelometry score, surgery, and targeted drug treatment of patients. Then we compared the correlations of landscape in gene mutations and the prognosis. Results The most common gene alternations, including BAP1, PBRM1, SETD2, CSF1R, NPM1, EGFR, POLE, RB1, and VHL genes, were identified in tissue and blood samples of 75% of patients. EGFR, POLE, and RB1 gene mutations frequently occurred in relapsed and metastatic patients. BAP1, CCND2, KRAS, PTPN11, ERBB2/3, JAK2, and POLE were presented in the patients with > 9 RENAL nephelometry score. Univariable analysis indicated that SETD2, BAP1, and PBRM1 genes were key factors for Disease-Free Survival (DFS). Multivariable analysis confirmed that mutated SETD1, NPM1, and CSF1R were critical factors for the Progression Free Survival (PFS) of RCC patients with target therapy. Conclusions Wild-type PBRM1 and mutated BAP1 in patients with RCC were strongly associated with the outcomes of the patient. The PFS of the patients with SETD2, NPM1, and CSF1R mutations were significantly shorter than those patients without variants.

SUMMARY: This study is to investigate the role and mechanism of RGD peptide in laryngeal cancer stem cells (CSCs). Laryngeal cancer CD133+Hep-2 CSCs were sorted by flow cytometry. RGD peptide was co-cultured with sorted laryngeal CSCs. Cell proliferation was detected with CCK-8 assay. The mRNA levels of VEGF/VEGFR2/STAT 3/HIF-1α were detected with RT-PCR. The proteins of VEGF/ VEGFR2/STAT 3/HIF-1α were detected with Western blot. The sorted CSCs were inoculated into nude mice. Tumor volume was measured. Integrin αvβ3 expression in tumor tissues was analyzed with immunohistochemistry. The results showed that the ratio of CD133+ CSCs to the total number of cells was 1.34±0.87 %, while CD133-non-tumor stem cells accounted for 95.0±5.76 %. The sorted cancer stem cells grew well. The RGD peptide significantly inhibited the proliferation of CD133+Hep-2 laryngeal CSCs in a dose-dependent manner. The RGD peptide significantly inhibited the mRNA of VEGFR2, STAT3 and HIF-1α in laryngeal CSCs in a concentration-dependent manner. Consistently, the RGD peptide significantly inhibited the protein expression of VEGFR2, STAT3 and HIF-1α in laryngeal CSCs in a dose-dependent manner. At the same time, in vivo tumor experiments showed that the RGD peptide significantly inhibited tumor volume but not the body weight. Furthermore, RGD peptide significantly inhibited the expression of tumor angiogenesis-related protein integrin αvβ3. Our findings demonstrate that RGD peptide inhibits tumor cell proliferation and tumor growth. The underlying mechanism may that RGD inhibits tumor angiogenesis-related signaling pathways, thus affecting the tumor angiogenesis, and decreasing the progression of human laryngeal CSCs.

RESUMEN: Este estudio se realizó para investigar el papel y el mecanismo del péptido RGD en las células madre del cáncer de laringe (CSC). Las CSC CD133+Hep-2 de cáncer de laringe se clasificaron mediante citometría de flujo. El péptido RGD se cocultivó con CSC laríngeas clasificadas. La proliferación celular se detectó con el ensayo CCK-8. Los niveles de ARNm de VEGF/VEGFR2/ STAT 3/HIF-1α se detectaron con RT-PCR. Las proteínas de VEGF/ VEGFR2/STAT 3/HIF-1α se detectaron con Western blot. Las CSC clasificadas se inocularon en ratones nudos. Se midió el volumen del tumor. La expresión de integrina αvβ3 en tejidos tumorales se analizó con inmunohistoquímica. Los resultados mostraron que la proporción de CSC CD133+ con respecto al número total de células fue de 1,34 ± 0,87 %, mientras que las células madre no tumorales CD133 representaron el 95,0 ± 5,76 %. Las células madre cancerosas clasificadas crecieron bien. El péptido RGD inhibió significativamente la proliferación de CSC laríngeas CD133+Hep-2 de una manera dependiente de la dosis. El péptido RGD inhibió significativamente el ARNm de VEGFR2, STAT3 y HIF-1α en CSC laríngeas de manera dependiente de la concentración. De manera consistente, el péptido RGD inhibió significativamente la expresión proteica de VEGFR2, STAT3 y HIF-1α en CSC laríngeas, de manera dependiente de la dosis. Al mismo tiempo, los experimentos con tumores in vivo mostraron que el péptido RGD inhibía significativamente el volumen del tumor pero no el peso corporal. Además, el péptido RGD inhibió significativamente la expresión de la proteína integrina αvβ3 relacionada con la angiogénesis tumoral. Nuestros hallazgos demuestran que el péptido RGD inhibe la proliferación de células tumorales y el crecimiento tumoral. El mecanismo subyacente puede ser que RGD inhiba las vías de señalización relacionadas con la angiogénesis tumoral, afectando así la angiogénesis tumoral y disminuyendo la progresión de las CSC laríngeas humanas.

RESUMO: A biossíntese é a única fonte de amido de batata que é uma importante matéria-prima para o processamento de alimentos, amido modificado e energia de biomassa. No entanto, não está claro sobre a evolução da síntese do amido com o desenvolvimento do tubérculo na batata. O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar as diferenças nas propriedades de síntese e gelatinização do amido de tubérculos de batata com diferentes teores de amido. Em relação às cultivares de médio e baixo teor de amido, as cultivares de alto teor de amido apresentaram expressão do gene SBEII, atividade enzimática AGPase e SSS e teor de amido total significativamente maiores após o estágio intermediário de acúmulo de amido, bem como menor tamanho médio dos grânulos de amido durante todo o processo de desenvolvimento do tubérculo, maior temperatura de colagem antes dos estágios finais de crescimento do tubérculo e menor temperatura de colagem após o estágio intermediário de acúmulo de amido. A análise de trilha mostrou que, após o estágio intermediário de acúmulo de amido, os efeitos na gelatinização do amido de cultivares com alto, médio e baixo teor de amido representaram a atividade da enzima de síntese de amido> acúmulo de amido> distribuição de grânulos de amido> expressão gênica de enzima de síntese de amido; expressão gênica de enzima de síntese de amido > atividade da enzima de síntese de amido> acúmulo de amido> distribuição de grânulos de amido; expressão gênica da enzima de síntese de amido> distribuição de grânulos de amido> atividade de síntese de amido> acúmulo de amido, respectivamente. No estudo, as fases existentes na biossíntese do amido do tubérculo de batata, e a qualidade do amido e seu processo de formação foram diferentes entre as variedades com diferentes teores de amido. As descobertas podem contribuir para a aplicação de amido e as indústrias de batata.

ABSTRACT: Biosynthesis is the only source of potato starch which is an important raw material for food processing, modified starch and biomass energy. However, it is not clear about the evolution of starch synthesis with tuber development in potato. The present study evaluated the differences of starch synthesis and gelatinization properties of potato tubers with different starch content. Relative to cultivars of medium and low starch content, cultivars of high starch content showed significantly higher SBEII gene expression, AGPase and SSS enzyme activity, and total starch content after middle stage of starch accumulation, and had smaller average starch granule size during whole process of tuber development, and had higher pasting temperature before late stages of tuber growth, and had lower pasting temperature after middle stage of starch accumulation. Path analysis showed that, after middle stage of starch accumulation, effects on starch gelatinization of cultivars with high, medium and low starch content represented starch synthesis enzyme activity > starch accumulation > starch granule distribution > starch synthesis enzyme gene expression, starch synthesis enzyme gene expression > starch synthesis enzyme activity > starch accumulation > starch granule distribution, starch synthesis enzyme gene expression > starch granule distribution > starch synthesis enzyme activity > starch accumulation, respectively. In the study, phases existed in the starch biosynthesis of potato tuber, and the starch quality and its formation process were different among varieties with different starch content. The findings might contribute to starch application and potato industries.

Abstract To study the exact effect of purple wheat (PW) on dyslipidaemia in rats so as to lay the foundation of a dietary therapy for hyperlipidaemia. A total of 42 rats were randomly divided into two groups: normal control group (NC) consisting of 12 rats were fed with standard diet in the whole testing process, the other group rats were fed with high-fat diet to induce dyslipidaemia. The dyslipidaemic rats were averagely divided into three groups: dyslipidaemia control group (DC) with 60% common wheat flour, PW1 group with diet containing 60% purple wheat Jizimai1 flour, PW3 group with 60% purple wheat Jizimai3 flour. Six weeks later, the weight-gain-ratio of the rats in PW1 and PW3 groups were lower as compared to the rats in DC and NC groups. Further, we found that the levels of triglyceride, total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein in the PW1 and PW3 groups were significantly reduced to almost that of normal levels. Finally, the results of hematoxylin and eosin staining showed that intaking of Jizimai1 and Jizimai3 could repair hepatocyte steatosis and kidney injury due to dyslipidaemia. Purple wheat diet therapy reduced lipid metabolism disorders and the liver tissue and renal injury in hyperlipidaemic rats.