Diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) is the most common disabling complication of diabetes. Emerging evidence has linked the pathogenesis of DNP to the aberrant sprouting of sensory axons into the epidermal area; however, the underlying molecular events remain poorly understood. Here we found that an axon guidance molecule, Netrin-3 (Ntn-3), was expressed in the sensory neurons of mouse dorsal root ganglia (DRGs), and downregulation of Ntn-3 expression was highly correlated with the severity of DNP in a diabetic mouse model. Genetic ablation of Ntn-3 increased the intra-epidermal sprouting of sensory axons and worsened the DNP in diabetic mice. In contrast, the elevation of Ntn-3 levels in DRGs significantly inhibited the intra-epidermal axon sprouting and alleviated DNP in diabetic mice. In conclusion, our studies identified Ntn-3 as an important regulator of DNP pathogenesis by gating the aberrant sprouting of sensory axons, indicating that Ntn-3 is a potential druggable target for DNP treatment.
Mice ; Animals ; Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/metabolism* ; Axons/physiology* ; Diabetic Neuropathies ; Sensory Receptor Cells/metabolism* ; Neuralgia/metabolism*

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an irreversible neurodegenerative disorder that damages patients' memory and cognitive abilities. Therefore, the diagnosis of AD holds significant importance. The interactions between regions of interest (ROIs) in the brain often involve multiple areas collaborating in a nonlinear manner. Leveraging these nonlinear higher-order interaction features to their fullest potential contributes to enhancing the accuracy of AD diagnosis. To address this, a framework combining nonlinear higher-order feature extraction and three-dimensional (3D) hypergraph neural networks is proposed for computer-assisted diagnosis of AD. First, a support vector machine regression model based on the radial basis function kernel was trained on ROI data to obtain a base estimator. Then, a recursive feature elimination algorithm based on the base estimator was applied to extract nonlinear higher-order features from functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data. These features were subsequently constructed into a hypergraph, leveraging the complex interactions captured in the data. Finally, a four-dimensional (4D) spatiotemporal hypergraph convolutional neural network model was constructed based on the fMRI data for classification. Experimental results on the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) database demonstrated that the proposed framework outperformed the Hyper Graph Convolutional Network (HyperGCN) framework by 8% and traditional two-dimensional (2D) linear feature extraction methods by 12% in the AD/normal control (NC) classification task. In conclusion, this framework demonstrates an improvement in AD classification compared to mainstream deep learning methods, providing valuable evidence for computer-assisted diagnosis of AD.
Humans ; Alzheimer Disease/diagnostic imaging* ; Neural Networks, Computer ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods* ; Neuroimaging/methods* ; Diagnosis, Computer-Assisted ; Brain ; Cognitive Dysfunction

Objective:To explore the feasibility and validity of constructing an intensity-modulated radiotherapy gamma pass rate prediction model after combining the SHAP values with the extreme gradient boosting tree (XGBoost) algorithm feature selection technique, and to deliver corresponding model interpretation.Methods:The dose validation results of 196 patients with pelvic tumors receiving fixed-field intensity-modulated radiotherapy using modality-based measurements with a gamma pass rate criterion of 3%/2 mm and 10% dose threshold in Hunan Provincial Tumor Hospital from November 2020 to November 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Prediction models were constructed by extracting radiomic features based on dose files and using SHAP values combined with the XGBoost algorithm for feature filtering. Four machine learning classification models were constructed when the number of features was 50, 80, 110 and 140, respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), recall rate and F1 score were calculated to assess the classification performance of the prediction models.Results:The AUC of prediction model constructed with 110 features selected based on the SHAP-valued features was 0.81, the recall rate was 0.93 and the F1 score was 0.82, which were all better than the other 3 models.Conclusion:For intensity-modulated radiotherapy of pelvic tumor, SHAP values can be used in combination with the XGBoost algorithm to select the optimal subset of radiomic features to construct predictive models of gamma pass rates, and deliver an interpretation of the model output by SHAP values, which may provide value in understanding the prediction by machine learning-dependent models.

Objective:To analyze the influencing factors, prevention and treatment strategy of short-term poor prognosis of continuous lumbar cistern external drainage after aneurysms subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH).Methods:Used retrospective research method, the clinical data of 300 patients with aSAH combined with continuous lumbar cistern external drainage treated in Sanya Central Hospital (Hainan Third People′s Hospital) from March 2019 to March 2021 were selected as the training set. In addition, the clinical data of 144 patients with aSAH with continuous lumbar cistern external drainage treated in Sanya Central Hospital (Hainan Third People′s Hospital) from March 2017 to May 2019 were selected as the verification set. According to the results of postoperative follow-up, the patients in the training set were divided into two groups: good prognosis group ( n=208) and poor prognosis group ( n=92). The demographic characteristics, past history, Hunt-Hess grade, modified Fisher grade, location of responsible aneurysm, postoperative complications, bone flap decompression and lumbar cistern drainage were compared between the two groups. The independent risk factors for prognosis of aSAH patients undergoing continuous lumbar cistern external drainage were screened by Cox proportional hazard regression model, and these factors were included and XGboost model was established. The prediction model was validated internally and externally in the training set and verification set: AUROC(C-index) was used to verify the model differentiation; GiViTI calibration band and Hosmer-Lemeshow test were used to verify the model calibration; DCA curve was used to verify the clinical validity of the model. Results:Hunt-Hess grade, modified Fisher grade, drainage duration, average daily drainage volume, shunt-dependent hydrocephalus, aneurysm rebleeding, cerebral vasospasm and delayed cerebral ischemia were independent risk factors for poor prognosis in patients with aSAH who underwent continuous lumbar cistern external drainage( P<0.05). The XGboost model was successfully established by incorporating the above independent risk factors, and the internal and external verification of the XGboost model was carried out in the training set and verification set, respectively, the area under the curve of receiver operating characteristic was 0.882(95% CI: 0.820-0.955) and 0.878(95% CI: 0.774-0.928) respectively, and the model differentiation was good; the 80%-90% confidence interval of the GiViTI calibration curve did not cross the 45° angle bisector ( P>0.05). In the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test, the P value were 0.581 and 0.716, respectively. The threshold probability value in the DCA curve was 30.4%. The clinical net benefit rate of the training set and verification set were 31% and 34%, respectively, indicating that the prediction model was clinically effective. Conclusions:The independent risk factors for poor prognosis of aSAH patients undergoing continuous lumbar cistern drainage are Hunt-Hess grade, modified Fisher grade, cerebral vasospasm, delayed cerebral ischemia and shunt-dependent hydrocephalus. The XGboost model constructed in this study can effectively predict the prognosis of patients with aSAH undergoing continuous lumbar cistern drainage, and provide reference for the formulation of follow-up treatment plans.

Objective:To compare the clinical efficacy and safety of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir (LDV/SOF) and elbasvir/grazoprevir (EBR/GZR) in treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC).Methods:The clinical data of 143 patients with genotype 1b CHC treated in Huzhou Central Hospital from January 2020 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed, including 74 cases treated with LDV/SOF and 69 cases treated with EBR/GZR. The virological response after 4 and 12 weeks of treatment and 12wk after drug withdrawal was determined; and the serological and liver inflammation indexes before and after treatment in two groups were compared. SPSS 25.0 software was used for statistical analysis of the data.Results:The virological response rates of the LDV/SOF group and EBR/GZR group were 97.30% and 98.55%, 98.65% and 100.00%, 97.30% and 98.55% after 4 and 12 weeks of treatment and 12 weeks after the end of treatment, respectively (all P > 0.05). At the end of treatment, the liver inflammation indexes ALT, AST and GGT in the two groups were significantly lower than the baseline levels ( Z=-7.470 and -6.974, -9.757 and -6.832, -3.578 and -4.054, P<0.01). Adverse reactions in both groups were mild, and no serious adverse events occurred. Conclusion:Both LDV/SOF and EBR/GZR have good clinical efficacy in the treatment of genotype 1b CHC patients. And the patients are well tolerated.

Endogenously eliminating the hematoma is a favorable strategy in addressing intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). This study sought to determine the role of retinoid X receptor-α (RXR-α) in the context of hematoma absorption after ICH. Our results showed that pharmacologically activating RXR-α with bexarotene significantly accelerated hematoma clearance and alleviated neurological dysfunction after ICH. RXR-α was expressed in microglia/macrophages, neurons, and astrocytes. Mechanistically, bexarotene promoted the nuclear translocation of RXR-α and PPAR-γ, as well as reducing neuroinflammation by modulating microglia/macrophage reprograming from the M1 into the M2 phenotype. Furthermore, all the beneficial effects of RXR-α in ICH were reversed by the PPAR-γ inhibitor GW9662. In conclusion, the pharmacological activation of RXR-α confers robust neuroprotection against ICH by accelerating hematoma clearance and repolarizing microglia/macrophages towards the M2 phenotype through PPAR-γ-related mechanisms. Our data support the notion that RXR-α might be a promising therapeutic target for ICH.

Objective:To investigate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of primary ovarian leiomyoma (POL) and improve the understanding of the disease.Methods:The clinical data of four cases of POL confirmed by surgical pathology who received treatment in Huadu District People's Hospital between September 2006 and August 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. MRI manifestations and pathological features of POL were analyzed.Results:In four cases, POL occurred in unilateral ovarium and appeared to be a single quasi round mass with complete capsule and clear boundary. A solid mass was observed in three cases and a cystic solid mass in one case. Subcapsular effusion was observed in three cases with a relatively large tumor body. Typical MRI findings were iso-intensity or slight hypo-intensity signal on T 1WI, hypo-intensity signal on T 2WI and diffusion-weighted images. The solid part on enhanced scan was enhanced synchronously with the uterus. Atypical T 2WI findings included cystic changes as shown by varying degrees of hyper-intensity signal, and the cystic change area was not enhanced. The internal signal and pathological features of POL were similar to those of uterine leiomyoma. Conclusion:The research results are highly innovative and scientific. MRI is of great significance in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of POL.

Objective:To summarize critical cases of emergency helicopter transferring between hospitals and improve the quality and safety of critical care.Methods:The task records of Guangxi Aviation Medical Rescue Training Base from September 2017 to September 2020 were retrieved. The mission acceptance, implementation results, disease spectrum composition, pre-transfer preparation and medical intervention on board were summarized.Results:① General information: a total of 168 patients of helicopter transfer requests were registered, of which 36 patients were transferred, 35 patients were successful, 1 patient had cardiac arrest during the landing phase, and died several hours after continuous resuscitation. Of the 36 patients 30 were males and 6 were females, with median age of 50.5 (29.8, 66.0) years old, the average transfer time was (54.95±17.89) minutes, and the average transfer distance was (205.74±74.68) km. ② Disease spectrum included 11 cases of stroke (30.55%), 7 cases of trauma (19.45%), 5 cases of severe pneumonia (13.89%), 5 cases of heart and macro-vascular diseases (13.89%), 5 cases of abdominal emergency (13.89%), and 3 other conditions (8.33%).③ Severity: 31 patients (86.11%) were severe (≥15) according to acute physiology and chronic health evaluation Ⅱ (APACHEⅡ) score; 19 patients (52.78%) were high-risk emergency transport (≥6) according to Hamilton early warning score (HEWS); 6 patients (85.71% of trauma patients) were severe trauma (≥16) according to injury severity score (ISS). ④ Preparation before transfer: remote consultation was carried out to evaluate the latest state of the patient's condition, especially the respiratory and circulatory conditions. Relevant items were reviewed and emergency treatments were implemented when necessary. Targeted preparation was made for accidents that might occur during transfer, such as electrocardiogram (94.44%), blood gas analysis (94.44%), brain CT (36.11%) and other auxiliary examinations, endotracheal intubation or tracheotomy (72.22%), deep vein catheterization (91.67%), placement of gastric tube (86.11%) and urinary tube (88.89%), adjustment of sedative (38.89%), vasoactive drugs (58.33%) and drugs for dehydration and lowering intracranial pressure (33.33%), and fixation of fracture (11.11%), etc. ⑤ On-board medical intervention: cardiac monitoring, blood pressure, respiration and blood oxygen monitoring were carried out in all patients. The parameters of patients using ventilator were adjusted in time (66.67%). The dosage of patients using micropump was adjusted in time (91.67%). Other aspects included the use of sedative and analgesics (38.89%), sputum suction nursing (75.00%), all kinds of catheter nursing (endotracheal intubation/incision nursing of 72.22%, indwelling catheter nursing of 88.89%), and cardiopulmonary resuscitation for patient with cardiac arrest (2.78%).Conclusion:As the patients transferred by helicopter are mainly those of critically ill at this stage, the requirements for airborne medical equipment and rescue technology are high, and there is an urgent need to establish technical specifications and personnel training standards.

Endogenously eliminating the hematoma is a favorable strategy in addressing intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). This study sought to determine the role of retinoid X receptor-α (RXR-α) in the context of hematoma absorption after ICH. Our results showed that pharmacologically activating RXR-α with bexarotene significantly accelerated hematoma clearance and alleviated neurological dysfunction after ICH. RXR-α was expressed in microglia/macrophages, neurons, and astrocytes. Mechanistically, bexarotene promoted the nuclear translocation of RXR-α and PPAR-γ, as well as reducing neuroinflammation by modulating microglia/macrophage reprograming from the M1 into the M2 phenotype. Furthermore, all the beneficial effects of RXR-α in ICH were reversed by the PPAR-γ inhibitor GW9662. In conclusion, the pharmacological activation of RXR-α confers robust neuroprotection against ICH by accelerating hematoma clearance and repolarizing microglia/macrophages towards the M2 phenotype through PPAR-γ-related mechanisms. Our data support the notion that RXR-α might be a promising therapeutic target for ICH.
Anilides/pharmacology* ; Cerebral Hemorrhage/drug therapy* ; Hematoma/drug therapy* ; Humans ; Macrophages ; Microglia ; Neuroprotection ; PPAR gamma ; Retinoid X Receptor alpha

Objective To evaluate the effect of microvascular invasion (MVI) on prognosis of recipients after liver transplantation for primary liver cancer (liver cancer). Methods Clinical data of 177 recipients after liver transplantation for liver cancer were retrospectively analyzed. All patients were divided into the MVI-positive group (n=64) and MVI-negative group (n=113) according to postoperative pathological examination results. Clinical data were statistically compared of all recipients between the negative and positive MVI groups. The prognosis and risk factors of liver transplantation recipients for liver cancer were analyzed. Results Among 177 recipients, 64 cases (36.2%) were positive for MVI and 113 (63.8%) negative for MVI. Compared with the MVI-negative recipients, MVI-positive recipients had significantly lower degree of tumor differentiation, higher preoperative alpha-fetaprotein (AFP) level, larger maximal tumor diameter, a larger quantity of tumors, more satellite lesions and more recipients who did not meet the Milan criteria (all P < 0.05). The 1-, 3- and 5-year overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) of recipients after liver transplantation for liver cancer were 80.2%, 62.1%, 58.5% and 66.3%, 57.5%, 51.2%, respectively. The 1-, 3- and 5-year OS and RFS of MVI-positive recipients were 70%, 39%, 35% and 53%, 39%, 33%, significantly lower than 86%, 75%, 72% and 73%, 68%, 63% of their counterparts negative for MVI (all P < 0.05). Cox regression analysis showed that the maximal tumor diameter >8 cm, preoperative AFP level ≥20 ng/mL, low degree of tumor differentiation and positive MVI were the independent risk factors for OS of recipients after liver transplantation for liver cancer (all P < 0.05). Positive MVI, low degree of tumor differentiation and preoperative down-staging failure were the independent risk factors for RFS of recipients after liver transplantation for liver cancer (all P < 0.05). Conclusions MVI is of significant clinical value in predicting clinical prognosis of recipients after liver transplantation for liver cancer.