ObjectiveTo clarify the associations between plasma fibrinogen （Fbg） and volumetric bone mineral density （vBMD） as well as osteoporosis measured by quantitative computed tomography （QCT）， and to explore the role of plasma Fbg in early screening and diagnosis of osteoporosis. MethodsPatients with hypertension who were hospitalized in the Department of Endocrinology of Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University from January 2018 to June 2022 and underwent QCT examinations were included for cross-sectional analysis. The study analyzed the correlation between plasma Fbg and osteoporosis in patients. The diagnostic efficacy of plasma Fbg for osteoporosis was evaluated by the area under the receiver operating characteristic （ROC） curve （AUC）. ResultsTotally 441 subjects were included in the analysis， with an average age of 46.0±14.5 years and a prevalence of osteoporosis of 6.4% （28/441）. As the level of plasma fibrinogen increased， the incidence of osteoporosis significantly increased （P<0.000 1）while the average bone mineral density of L1 and L2 were significantly decreased （P<0.05）. Compared with the first quartile of plasma Fbg（1.99g/L -2.37g/L）， the risk of osteoporosis in the fourth quartile of plasma Fbg （3.67g/L-4.46g/L） increased by 8.85 times after adjusting for related confounding factors. ConclusionThis study found a negative correlation between plasma fibrinogen levels and bone density in patients with hypertension. Plasma fibrinogen levels may serve as a potential screening indicator for osteoporosis， aiding in early diagnosis and therapeutic monitoring. This discovery offers a new perspective for the study of bone metabolic diseases and warrants further investigation.

ObjectiveTo analyze the epidemiological characteristics and spatial clustering patterns of brucellosis in humans in Zhangjiakou City, Heibei Province from 2018 to 2023, so as to provide a basis for the prevention and control of brucellosis. MethodsIncidence data of brucellosis in Zhangjiakou City from 2018 to 2023 were collected. Descriptive epidemiological analysis, Joinpoint regression modelling, and spatial autocorrelation analysis were used to analyze the temporal trends and spatial clustering patterns of the epidemic. ResultsA total of 3 812 cases of brucellosis were reported in Zhangjiakou City from 2018 to 2023, with no death case, yielding an average annual incidence rate of 15.43/100 000 (incidence range: 12.82/100 000‒17.76/100 000). Cases of brucellosis occurred year-round, with a distinct seasonal pattern, predominantly concentrated between March and September, peaking in May and June. The male-to-female ratio was 2.58∶1, with a higher incidence in males than that in females. The highest incidence rates were observed in the 40‒<50 years (74.98/100 000) and 50‒<60 years age group (87.14/100 000). The majority of cases were farmers and herdsmen (3 557 cases, 93.31%). Joinpoint regression analyses indicated that from 2018 to 2023, the incidence rate of human brucellosis in pastoral areas of Zhangjiakou City showed a declining trend (APC=-9.70%, 95%CI: -15.31%‒ -4.63%), while the incidence rate in mixed-use areas exhibited an increasing trend (APC=6.90%, 95%CI: 0.17%‒14.30%). Spatial clustering analyses showed that the incidence of brucellosis in Zhangjiakou from 2018 to 2023 was non-randomly distributed across the whole city, with a positive spatial correlation and significant clustering (Moran’s I>0, all P<0.001). Local spatial autocorrelation analyses showed that the high-high clusters were concentrated in the pastoral areas during 2018‒2020. From 2021 onward, the number of high-high clusters in mixed and non-pastoral regions exceeded those in traditional pastoral areas. ConclusionFrom 2018 to 2023, the incidence of brucellosis in Zhangjiakou City showed a declining trend, with significant spatial clustering observed across the city. It is recommended to intensify health education among males aged 40‒<60 years. Scientific livestock management practices should be promoted in non-pastoral and mixed areas, and cross-sectoral quarantine and joint prevention and control efforts should be strengthened as well.

Cationic liposomes,as non-viral vectors,are widely used in gene therapy and gene silencing.Although numerous cationic liposomes have various structures,they can all improve the per-formance of gene delivery.As gene therapy is increasingly studied,it may be foreseen that new cationic lipoplexes will be explored.In this review,we aim to discuss four constituent domains of cationic lipids(headgroup,hydrophobic domain,linker and helper lipids)in gene delivery.This article attempts to demonstrate that various lipid structures show different transfection efficiency and cytotoxicity by sum-marizing the similarities and differences between the four parts of cationic lipids.Furthermore,their major influencing factors are covered.Finally,three clinical cases of ionizable lipids are described to reveal their characteristics and differences from cationic lipids.This paper is intended to provide a conceptual framework for the design of cationic liposomes and for the selection of cationic lipids.

[Objective]To explore the effects of electricity on sperm quality,sex hormone levels,and related proteins in TGF-β 1/smads signaling in testicular tissue.[Methods]Forty male SD rats were randomly divided into blank group,model group,electroacupuncture group,and positive drug group.Adenine gavage method was used to establish the model,in the electroacupuncture group,rats received electroacupuncture treatment at the acupoints Zhongji,Guanyuan,Zusanli,and Sanyinjiao once daily for 30 minutes;in the positive drug group,rats were administered L-carnitine oral solution via gavage at a dosage of 10 mL/kg,both intervention groups underwent continuous treatment for 28 days.After treatment,the changes of sperm number,sperm motility rate,follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH),luteizing hormone(LH)and serum sex hormone testosterone(T)were detected by HE staining,and the expression of TGF-β-1/smads signaling pathway in testicular tissue was examined by Western Blot.[Results]Compared to the blank group,the model group showed a significant decrease in sperm count and sperm motility rate(P<0.05),both the electroacupuncture group and the positive drug group exhibited significant increases compared to the model group(P<0.05).Compared to the blank group,the model group had a significant decrease in serum testosterone(T)levels(P<0.05),and significant increases in serum FSH and LH levels(P<0.05);in comparison to the model group,the electroacupuncture group and the positive drug group showed significant increases in serum T levels(P<0.05),and significant decreases in serum FSH and LH levels(P<0.05).The HE staining results showed typical pathological features of AR in the testicular tissue of model group rats,with varying degrees of improvement observed in electroacupuncture and positive drug group rats.Western Blot analysis revealed that in the model group,the protein levels of TGF-β,p-smad2,and p-smad3 in the TGF-β1/smads pathway in testicular tissue were significantly increased(P<0.05);in comparison to the model group,the electroacupuncture group and the positive drug group showed significant decreases in the protein levels of TGF-β,p-smad2,and p-smad3(P<0.05).[Conclusion]Acupuncture can improve the sperm number and sperm motility rate,regulate sex hormone level and improve the spermatogenic environment,and affect the spermatogenesis process via TGF-β 1/smads signaling pathway.

Over the past 30 years,nano-drug delivery systems(NDDS)have become a promising field of drug research.However,a poor knowledge of the in vivo process of NDDS,the limited methods of pharmacokinetic correlation,and the inability to effectively provide strong support for the construction of upstream drug as well as the evaluation of downstream pharmacology and toxicology have become the technical bottleneck for their clinical transformation.Lipid nanodrug(LND)is the most successful NDDS for industrial transformation with great biocompatibility.Taking LND as an example,this paper reviewed the delivery process and influencing factors in vivo,and summarized the regulatory mecha-nism of biological environments on drug release in vivo.Based on advanced spectroscopy and mass spectrometry techniques,the spatial and temporal distribution of the dynamic carrier particle/depolymer-ized molecule ratio and dynamic free/encapsulated drug ratio of LND in biological matrix were ana-lyzed.Finally,the existing problems and future developments in this field were summarized to provide references for the analysis of NDDS in vivo,and stimulate readers'interest in nanomedical research and development.

OBJECTIVE To investigate the protective effect of interleukin-35(IL-35)mRNA-lipid nanoparticles(LNP)against lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced acute lung injury(ALI)in mice.METHODS Fifity-six mice were randomly divided into 7 groups with 8 mice in each,including the normal control group,IL-35 mRNA-LNP(250 μg·kg-1)group,LPS group,LPS+IL-35 mRNA-LNP(50,125 and 250 μg·kg-1)group and LPS+Dexamethasone(DXM)group.Except for the normal control group and IL-35 mRNA-LNP(250 μg·kg-1)group and ALI model was established by tracheal infusion of LPS in each of the other groups.IL-35 mRNA-LNP(250 μg·kg-1)group and LPS+IL-35 mRNA-LNP(50,125 and 250 μg·kg-1)group were injected with a corresponding dose of LNP encapsulated mRNA complex via the tail vein while the LPS+DXM group was injected with DXM via the tail vein.Lung coefficient and the wet to dry weight ratio(W/D)of lung tissue were recorded.The mRNA levels of inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α),Interleukin-6(IL-6)and IL-1βof lung homogenates were detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR(RT-qPCR).LDH activity of lung homogenates and the protein levels of IL-35,TNF-α,IL-6 and IL-1β in lung homogenate were detected by corresponding kits.Hematoxylin-eosin(HE)staining was used to observe and analyze the pathological injury to lung tissue.The expres-sion of Lymphocyte antigen 6G(Ly6G)was detected by Immunofluorescence to reflect the infiltration of neutrophils.RESULTS Compared with the normal control group,LPS group and LPS+DXM group,IL-35 protein expression levels in lung homogenates of the other groups were more significant(P<0.01).Compared with the normal control group,lung coefficient,W/D ratio of lung tissue,LDH activity,mRNA levels and the protein levels of TNF-α,IL-6 and IL-1β in lung homogenates were significantly increased in the LPS group(P<0.01),accompanied by alveolar hemorrhage,alveolar wall thickening and neutro-phils infiltration.After IL-35 mRNA-LNP administration,lung coefficient,W/D ratio of lung tissue,LDH activity,mRNA levels and the protein levels of TNF-α,IL-6 and IL-1β in lung homogenates were signifi-cantly decreased(P<0.01),and alveolar hemorrhage,alveolar wall thickening and neutrophil infiltration were obviously improved.CONCLUSION IL-35 mRNA-LNP can express IL-35 protein in lung tissue of mice,and effectively improve LPS-induced ALI in mice by inhibiting the expression of proinflammatory factors.

Primary hypomagnesemia with secondary hypocalcemia(HSH) is a rare cause of hypoparathyroidism. This article presents a case of a 26-year-old male with recurrent generalized weakness and tetany, and a literature review of diagnosis and treatment of primary HSH. The biochemical tests revealed the patient had severe hypomagnesemia, mild hypocalcemia, hypokalemia, and hypoparathyroidism. Transient receptor potential melastatin-6(TRPM6) gene mutation were detected by gene test, which confirmed the diagnosis of primary HSH. The patient had been treated with long term oral magnesium supplementation, who remained asymptomatic during the follow-up. Primary HSH is a rare autosomal-recessive disorder caused by mutations in the TRPM6 gene which encoding a magnesium permeable channel expressed in the intestine and the kidney. The primary defect is impaired intestinal absorption of magnesium with secondary renal excretion, leading to a series of clinical symptoms. The treatment is mainly through lifelong magnesium supplementation.

PURPOSE: Synuclein-gamma (SNCG), which was initially identified as breast cancer specific gene 1, is highly expressed in advanced breast cancers, but not in normal or benign breast tissue. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of SNCG siRNA-treatment on breast cancer cells and elucidate the associated mechanisms. METHODS: Vectors containing SNCG and negative control (NC) siRNAs were transfected into MDA-MB-231 cells; mRNA levels were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Cell proliferation was evaluated using the MTT assay, cell migration was assessed by the Transwell assay, apoptosis and cell cycle analyses were conducted with the flow cytometer, and Western blot analysis was performed to determine the relative levels of AKT, ERK, p-AKT, and p-ERK expression. RESULTS: SNCG mRNA levels were significantly reduced in MDA-MB-231 cells transfected with SNCG siRNA. Our results indicate that in SNCG siRNA-treated cells, cell migration and proliferation decreased significantly, apoptosis was induced, and the cell cycle was arrested. Western blot analysis indicated that the protein levels of p-AKT and p-ERK were much lower in the SNCG siRNA-treated groups, than in the control and NC groups. CONCLUSION: SNCG siRNA could decrease the migration and proliferation of breast cancer cells by downregulating the phosphorylation of AKT and ERK.
Apoptosis ; Blotting, Western ; Breast ; Breast Neoplasms ; Cell Cycle ; Cell Migration Assays ; Cell Movement* ; Cell Proliferation ; Extracellular Signal-Regulated MAP Kinases ; Phosphorylation* ; Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt ; Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction ; RNA, Messenger ; RNA, Small Interfering ; Synucleins*

Objective To investigate the effects of recombinant human granulocyte colonystimulating factor(G-CSF) on murine thymic emigration and subsets reconstitution after a sublethal dose of irradiaton.Methods Female BALB/c mice were irradiated with a 6.0 Gy of γ-ray total-body irradiation and then randomly divided into GCSF group and control group.For mice in the GCSF group,recombinant human G-CSF 100 μg · kg-1 · d-1 was injected subcutaneously once daily for 14 continuous days and mice in the control group were given the same volume of phosphate buffered solution (PBS).At 7,14,21 and 28 days later,mice were killed and thymus mononuclear cell suspension were analyzed by flow cytometry for the percentage of the four stages of thymic CD4 -CD8 - double negative cells (DN1-4) and the CD4 + CD8 + double positive ( CD4 + CD8 + DP),CD4 + CD8 - single positive ( CD4 + SP),CD4 -CD8 + single positive cells (CD8 + SP).Real-time PCR was used for detection and quantitation of murine T cell receptor rearrangement excision circles(sjTRECs) of the thymic cells of 30 and 60 d after irradiation.Results The percentage of thymic DN1 cells in GCSF group was significantly higher than that of the control group 7 d after irradiation (t =9.59,P ＜ 0.05 ).21 d later,the proportion of thymic DN3 and DN4 cells were higher than those of the control group ( t =16.37,7.6,P ＜ 0.05 ).The percentage of thymic CD4 + CD8 + DP cells decreased 7 d after irradiation,increased at 14 d,decreased again at 21 days,and then got a permanent recover.The percentage of thymic CD4 + CD8 + DP cells in the GCSF group recovered to normal and was significantly higher than that of the control group 28 days after irradiation (t =12.22,P＜ 0.05).The percentage of thymic CD8 + SP cells of the GCSF group was significantly higher than that of the control group 21 d after irradiation ( t =3.77,P ＜ 0.05 ),while G-CSF had no obvious influence on the percentage of the thymic CD4 + SP cells.The sjTRECs copies in the GCSF group was significantly higher than that of the control group 30 d after irradiation ( t =5.95,P ＜ 0.01 ),which disappeared 60 d later.Conclusions G-CSF could promote the proliferation and differentiation of thymic DN and DP cells,enhance the recent thymic emigrants and accelerate central immunologic reconstitution after acute irradiation.

BACKGROUND:The immunomodulatory ability of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells(BMSCs)gives it a promising future in treating graft-versus-host disease(GVHD),especially with previous success in treating patients with acute GVHD.However,there are fewer reports concerning BMSCs in treating chronic GVHD,particularly for sclerodermatous chronic graft-versus-host disease(ScGVHD).OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the efficacy and safety of treatment of BMSCs for ScGVHD,and to primarily explore the immunological mechanism of clinical efficacy.METHODS:Four ScGVHD patients at the Affiliated Hospital of Academy of Military Medicine Science,between September 2006 and August 2008,were enrolled for this trial.The median patient age was 41 years,1 female and 3 male.The patients received BMSCs infusion at a dose of(1.0～2.0)×10~7 cells every time by intrabone marrow injection from the anterosuperior iliac spine and BMSCs from the same donor for the same patient were infused more than once.Concomitant medications for ScGVHD were individualized for each patient,but all were current standard medicines and the doses were significantly tapered.RESULTS AND CONCLUTION:After BMSCs infusion,the ratio of Th1 to Th2 was dramatically overturned,with an increase of Th1 and a decrease of Th2 reaching at a new balance.Correspondingly,symptoms of all the four patients gradually improved.During the course of BMSCs treatment,the life signs and laboratory results from the recipients remained normal.By the time of this report,there has been no recurrence of leukemia in the four patients.Although this study alone cannot guarantee the application of BMSCs in ScGVHD,the results are strongly in favor of the idea that the BMSCs treatment for ScGVHD patients is therapeutically practical without any detectable side effects,which may provide a new insight into the matter of treating ScGVHD clinically,thus will greatly increase the survival rate of leukemia after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation.