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BackgroundThe acetabular pathomorphology in patients with Crowe type II and III developmental dysplasia of the hip(DDH)often present complicated changes, which bring challenges to the anatomical reconstruction of acetabulum in total hip arthroplasty (THA). The objective of this study was to develope a novel 3D printed integral customized acetabular prosthesis, which provides a promising way to reconstruct the acetabulum with higher accuracy and efficiency by digital softwares, compared with previous 3D printing model method.Methods15 patients (18 hips) with end-stage hip osteoarthritis due to Crowe type II/III DDH who underwent primary cementless THA from January 2015 to November 2021 were included. The 15 patients consisted of 3 men (3 hips) and 12 women (15 hips) with an average age of 53.89 ± 8.48 years (range from 32 to 69 years). The novel 3D printed integral customized acetabular prosthesis was designed by the model method and software method respectively. The indicators of the cup size, the volume and superficial area of bone defect, the inclination and anteversion of acetabular cup, the horizontal and vertical distance of hip center and working time were compared between two methods.ResultsThere were statistically significant difference between the software group and model group on the volume and superficial area of bone defect as well as working time (t = 2.397, 2.707,138.509, P < 0.05). The mean anteversion and inclination of acetabular cup in the software group and model group were(15.17±0.52)°,(40.24±0.58)°and (33.79 ±13.43)°, (30.50 ±11.03)°respectively, the difference was statistically significant (t = 5.859, 3.767, P < 0.05).There were no statistically significant difference between the software group and model group on cup size, the horizontal and vertical distance of hip center(t =1.458,0.114, 1.712, P > 0.05)ConclusionsThe application of digital softwares could design and develope the novel 3D printed integral customized anatomical acetabular prosthesis in THA for □Crowe type II and III DDH with high accuracy and efficiency.

Aims: The aim of this study was to explore a novel method to determine the orientation of acetabular prosthesis in total hip arthroplasty (THA) by refering to the anatomical landmarker of acetabular notches.Methods: Forty-one normal developmental hips were included in the present study. The acetabulums were reamed according to standard surgical procedures of THA on life-size 3D printing pelvis models.The inferior edge of acetabular cup were placed (1-5)mm proximal and distal to the proximal line of the anterior and posterior acetabular notches (PLAPAN) respectively to determine cup inclination. The inferior edge of acetabular cup were placed (1-5) mm pronating and supinating around the proximal point of acetabular posterior notch (PPAPN) respectively to determine cup anteversion. The pelvis plain radiographs were took and the inclination and anteversion of the acetabular cup at 22 positions were calculated. Results: In the normal developmental hip, the mean inclination of acetabular prothesis were (35.10±3.22) ° and (45.90±2.68) ° when the inferior edge of the acetabular cup was 3mm proximal and 1mm distal to the PLAPAN.The optimal cup inclination could be obtained when the inferior edge of the acetabular cup was 1mm proximal to the PLAPAN (the mean inclination was (40.71±2.80) °) .The mean anteversion of acetabular prothesis were (10.67±4.55) ° and (20.86±4.44) ° when the inferior edge of the acetabular cup was 1mm pronating and 1mm supinating around the PPAPN. The optimal cup anteversion could be obtained when the inferior edge of the acetabular cup was parallel to the PLAPAN (the mean anteversion was (18.00±1.64) °).Conclusions: The inclination and anteversion of acetabular prosthesis could be determined by refering the anatomical landmarks of acetabular notches，which could help orthopedists to install the acetabular prosthesis quickly and safely in THA.

Background To restore rotation center exactly in revision hip arthroplasty is technically challenging, especially in Paprosky type III. The technical difficulty is attributable to the complicated acetabular bone defect. In this study, we discussed the method of restoring rotation center in revision hip arthroplasty and reported the clinical and radiological outcome of mid-term and long-term follow-up. Methods This study retrospectively reviewed 45 patients (48 hips) who underwent revision hip arthroplasty, in which 35 cases (35 hips) were available for complete follow-up data. During the operation, the acetabular bone defect was reconstructed by impaction morselized bone graft, and the hip rotation center was restored by using remnant Harris fossa and acetabular notches as the marks. The clinical outcome was assessed using the Harris hip score. Pelvis plain x-ray was used to assess implant migration, stability of implants, and incorporation of the bone graft to host bone. Result The average follow-up duration was 97.60 months (range 72–168 months). The average Harris hip score improved from 29.54 ± 10.87 preoperatively to 83.77 ± 5.78 at the last follow-up. The vertical distance of hip rotation center measured on pelvis x-ray was restored to normal, with the mean distance (15.24 ± 1.31) mm (range 12.4~17.3 mm). The mean loss of vertical distance of hip rotation center was (2.21 ± 0.72) mm (range 1.1 ~ 5.3 mm) at the last follow-up. Conclusion Satisfactory clinical and radiological outcome can be obtained through restoring hip rotation center by using remnant Harris fossa and acetabular notches as the anatomical marks in revision hip arthroplasty.

Objectives Evaluate the application value of 3D printing technology in measuring acetabular bone defect area in adult patients diagnosed with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). Methods 23 cases of DDH requiring total hip replacement surgery were enrolled in this study. Preoperative examination confirmed the standard pelvic plain films Crowe, including 3 cases of Crowe I, 7 Crowe II, and 13 Crowe III. The 3D printing technology was used to print the hip model before the operation. Based on the pre-printed model, pre-operative planning and surgical procedures were established. The area of the acetabular bone defects was measured, the selected size prosthesis was recorded, and the surgery was performed (group A). The actual acetabular bone defect area and the prosthesis size were also recorded (group B). Results The comparative results indicated that the actual acetabular defect area measured intraoperatively and the area measured using the 3D printing technology did not significantly differ for all participants (all P>0.05). Conclusion Preoperative model can accurately measure the acetabular bone defect area for DDH. It is significant to develop individualized implants for DDH patients treated with the 3D printing technique. Level of Evidence IV: Case series. RESUMO Objetivos Avaliar o potencial da aplicação da tecnologia de impressão 3D na medição da área de defeito ósseo acetabular em pacientes adultos diagnosticados com displasia do desenvolvimento do quadril (DDH). Métodos 23 casos de DDH que requereram cirurgia de substituição total do quadril foram incluídos neste estudo. O exame pré-operatório confirmou os filmes pélvicos padrão Crowe, incluindo 3 casos de Crowe I, 7 Crowe II, e 13 Crowe III. A tecnologia de impressão 3D foi utilizada para imprimir o modelo de quadril antes da operação. Com base no modelo pré-impresso, o planejamento pré-operatório e os procedimentos cirúrgicos foram estabelecidos. A área dos defeitos ósseos acetabulares foi medida, a prótese de tamanho selecionado foi registrada, e a cirurgia foi realizada (grupo A). A área do defeito ósseo acetabular real e o tamanho da prótese também foram registrados (grupo B). Resultados Os resultados comparativos indicaram que a área real do defeito acetabular medida intraoperativamente e a área medida usando a tecnologia de impressão 3D não diferiu significativamente para todos os participantes (todos P>0,05). Conclusão O modelo pré-operatório pode medir com precisão a área de defeito ósseo acetabular para DDH. É relevante desenvolver implantes individualizados para pacientes com DDH tratados com a técnica de impressão 3D. Nível de Evidência IV: Série de casos.

In order to improve the prediction accuracy of state of charge (SOC) and state of health (SOH) of Ni-Cd alkaline battery in Electric Multiple Units (EMU) auxiliary power system, a Dual Adaptive Unscented Kalman Filter (DAUKF) algorithm was proposed by improving the unscented Kalman algorithm. Two algorithm filters, AUKF1 and AUKF2, are established. Based on the second-order battery model, the SOC and SOH of the battery are calculated simultaneously. The simulation results show that DAUKF can get accurate SOC and SOH, the prediction accuracy is less than 2%, which verifies the feasibility and accuracy of the algorithm. It can provide real-time prediction data of Ni-Cd alkaline battery of EMU, which is of great significance to the safe operation of EMU.

Purpose To restore rotation center exactly in total hip arthroplasty (THA) is technically challenging for patients with end-stage osteoarthritis due to developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). The technical difficulty is attributable to the complex acetabular changes. In this study, we investigated the pathomorphology of acetabulum and Harris fossa of Crowe types I to IV and discussed the method of restoring rotation center of the hip. Methods This study retrospectively reviewed 56 patients (59 hips) who underwent cementless THA due to end-stage osteoarthritis of DDH. The pathomorphology of acetabulum and Harris fossa was observed during operations. Using the preoperative and postoperative pelvic radiographs, the vertical and the horizontal distances of hip rotation center were measured in order to evaluate the effects of restoring rotation center of the hip. Results Adult DDH acetabulum could be classified into four basic pathological types which include the shallow cup shape, the dish shape, the shell shape, and the triangular shape. Adult DDH Harris fossa could be classified into four pathological types, including the crack shape, the closed shape, the triangle shape, and the shallow shape, in accordance with the osteophyte coverage. The vertical and horizontal distances of hip rotation center on the pelvic radiographs before and after operations were as follows: the preoperative vertical distance of hip rotation center was (39.96 ± 5.65) mm, and the postoperative one was (13.83 ± 2.66) mm; the preoperative horizontal distance of hip rotation center was (42.15 ± 6.42) mm, and the postoperative one was (28.12 ± 4.56) mm. Conclusions The acetabulum and Harris fossa can display different pathological types on account of different degrees of dislocation and osteophyte hyperplasia in the end-stage osteoarthritis of adult DDH. The hip rotation center can be accurately restored by locating the acetabular center with Harris fossa and acetabular notch as the marks.

Rationale: Exact restoration of the rotation center in total hip arthroplasty (THA) is technically challenging in patients with end-stage osteoarthritis due to developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), especially in the Crowe type II and III procedures. The technical difficulty is attributable to the complex acetabular changes. In this study, a novel 3-dimensional (3D) printed integral customized acetabular prosthesis for anatomical rotation restoration in THA for DDH Crowe type III was developed using patient-specific Computer-aided design and additive manufacturing (AM) methods. Patient concerns: A 69-year-old female patient had developed left hip joint pain and restricted movement for 40 years; the symptoms had increased in the past 5 months. Pain, limited motion of the left hip joint, and lower limb length discrepancy were noted during physical examination. Diagnosis: The patient was diagnosed with left hip end-stage osteoarthritis secondary to DDH (Crowe type III). Intervention: A 3D printed acetabulum model was manufactured and a simulated operation was performed to improve the accuracy of reconstruction of the rotation center and bone defect. A 3D printed titanium alloy integral customized acetabular prosthesis was designed according to the result of simulated operation. The integral customized prothesis was implanted subsequently via the posterolateral approach. Radiography of the pelvis and Harris score assessment were performed during the perioperative period as well as at the 6- and 12-month follow-up. Outcomes: The 3D printed integral customized acetabular prosthesis matched precisely with the reamed acetabulum. The rotation center was restored and the bone defect was exactly reconstructed. There were no signs of prosthetic loosening at the 12-month follow-up. The Harris score gradually improved during the follow-up period. Lessons: Satisfactory results of hip rotation restoration and bone defect reconstruction could be achieved by using 3D printed integral customized acetabular prosthesis, which provides a promising way to reconstruct the acetabulum in patients with DDH anatomically and rapidly for THA.

Background It is technically challenging to restore hip rotation center exactly in total hip arthroplasty (THA) for patients with end-stage osteoarthritis secondary to developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) due to the complicated acetabular morphology changes.In this study, we developed a new method to restore hip rotation center exactly and rapidly in THA with the assistance of three dimensional (3-D) printing technology. Methods Seventeen patients (21 hips) with end-stage osteoarthritis secondary to DDH who underwent THA were included in this study. Simulated operations were performed on 3-D printed hip models for preoperative planning. The Harris fossa and acetabular notches were recognized and restored to locate acetabular center. The agreement on the size of acetabular cup and bone defect between simulated operations and actual operations were analyzed.Clinical and radiographic outcomes were recorded and evaluated. Results The sizes of the acetabular cup of simulated operations on 3-D printing models showed a high rate of coincidence with the actual sizes in the operations(ICC value = 0.930) There was no significant difference statistically between the sizes of bone defect in simulated operations and the actual sizes of bone defect in THA( t value = 0.03,P value = 0.97). The average Harris score of the patients was improved from (38.33 ± 6.07) preoperatively to the last follow-up (88.61 ± 3.44) postoperatively.The mean vertical and horizontal distances of hip rotation center on the pelvic radiographs were restored to (15.12 ± 1.25)mm and ( 32.49 ± 2.83) mm respectively. No case presented dislocation or radiological signs of loosening until last follow-up. Conclusions The application of 3-D printing technology facilitates orthopedists to recognize the morphology of Harris fossa and acetabular notches, locate the acetabular center and restore the hip rotation center rapidly and accurately.

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a pneumonia caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The outbreak began in Wuhan, China, and spread rapidly, with many cases confirmed in multiple countries. Usually, after viral pneumonia were clinical cured, the pulmonary lesions of majority patients will gradually be absorbed to complete dissipation, very few severe patients may retain pulmonary interstitial inflammation and fibrosis (1-3). In this case, we described one unique COVID-19 patient, the symptoms were: dry cough, fatigue, poor appetite and subjective fever, moreover, the patient was a non-smoker, had no pulmonary bullous, no history of tuberculosis, and also no hypertension or diabetes. The patient received antiviral therapy, antibacterial therapy, recombinant human interferon-α2a, vitamin C and oxygen inhalation. After two weeks of treatment and observation, the patient was clinical cured and discharged. However, two days later, the patient had a sudden chest stuffiness, CT images indicted: his lung didn't heal like others, but developed a large pulmonary cavity in the lower lobe of right lung. In hospital, the patient showed no symptoms of infection for another 14 days, and the pulmonary cavity remain unchanged. This case suggested: it is important to follow convalescent COVID-19 patients, especially their lung CT images, to make sure a fully recovery.

Alkali metal pretreatment in pyrolysis is proposed to address alkali-induced issues in high-alkali coal utilization, on the basis of staged fuel combustion. However, the newfound carbon engulfment remains an intractable problem. This work investigated the effect of pyrolysis conditions on enhancing alkali metal pretreatment during Zhundong coal pyrolysis over 500–1000 °C in a laboratory fixed-bed apparatus, which focused on heating rate, volatile-char interaction, and CH4 atmosphere. Multiple analytical methods were integrated to relate the facilitation effect of pyrolysis conditions on sodium pretreatment with the suppression of carbon engulfment. The results indicated carbon engulfment primarily blocked mesopores with a size

Based on analysis of successive and whole cores over six hundred meters from the second Member of Kongdian Formation (Kong 2 Member) of fine-grained facies zone in central lake basin of Cangdong sag, ten thousands of systematic and joint analysis data, and the matching logging data, the sedimentary characteristics in the fine-grained facies zone is examined by means of traditional petroleum geology, sedimentology, and new theory and method of tight oil and gas generation. The Kong 2 Member is the sedimentation during the maximum lake flooding in the Kongdian Formation. Fine-grained sedimentation of half-deep lake to deep lake are widely distributed, the fine-grained feldspar-quartz contained sedimentary rock, fine-grained mixed sedimentary rock, and dolomite are developed, and the clay rock is poorly developed. The fine-grained rocks have these features as follows: more rock compositions, less advantageous minerals; more debris minerals, less clay minerals; more analcites, less pyrites; more brittle minerals, less quartz; more rock types, less oil shale; more tight reservoirs with less non-cracked reservoirs; more high-quality source rocks, less non-source rocks; more high-frequency cycle sediments, less single sediments. These understandings updated the former view that only mud shale source rock was dominantly developed in the closed continental lake. With the help of geologic research and matched engineering technologies, several exploration wells have produced industrial oil flows, showing a good prospect of tight oil exploration in fine-grained facies zones of continental lacustrine basins. Key words: fine-grained sediment, fine-grained facies, tight oil, geologic features, exploration prospect, Cangdong sag, Bohai Bay Basin

As potential CO2 adsorbents, carbon materials have recently gained attention because of their low energy penalty, abundant sources and good stability. In this study, the response surface methodology (RSM) was used to guide the pitch-based activated carbon preparation and CO2 adsorption at different temperatures. Based on this experimental design, the correlations of CO2 uptakes at different temperatures, as well as the coupling effects of the preparation conditions on CO2 uptake, were analyzed by mathematical modelling. The obtained optimal carbon sample AC650-1.25-2.5 showed a high atmospheric CO2 uptake of 3.15(±0.14), 2.05(±0.02), and 1.37(±0.11) mmol/g at 25 °C, 50 °C, and 75 °C, respectively. Furthermore, the analysis of variance confirmed that the key factor to determine CO2 uptake at 25 °C was the activator ratio, contributing to 77.8 % of the total variance; however, it gradually shifted to the activation temperature and its coupling effect with other factors for CO2 uptake at 75 °C. The linear regression and significance test of CO2 uptakes showed that using CO2 uptake at 25 °C to predict the uptake at 50 °C was feasible; however, it failed to work when predicting the CO2 uptake at 75 °C. The good linear relationship of CO2 uptakes at similar adsorption temperatures benefited from the existence of sharable effective pore width. It was also concluded that the strict requirement for extremely narrow ultra-micropores led to the non-coincidence of suitable preparation conditions, corresponding to a good CO2 uptake at different adsorption temperatures; this further led to the bad predictability when the adsorption temperature varied greatly.

To assess the long-term effectiveness of the transplantation of iliac bone flap pedicled with deep iliac circumflex vessels for treating avascular necrosis of femoral head (ANFH) at Ficat stage II and III.Thirty-two cases (43 hips) of ANFH underwent iliac bone flap transplantation pedicled with deep iliac circumflex vessels between October 2000 and February 2006, and the clinical data were retrospectively reviewed. Of 32 cases, 27 were male (38 hips), and 5 were female (5 hips), aged 21-52 years (mean, 36.6 years); there were 8 cases (11 hips) of hormone ANFH, 18 cases (23 hips) of alcoholic ANFH, and 6 cases (9 hips) of idiopathic ANFH. The disease duration ranged from 2-52 months (mean, 8.2 months). According to Ficat staging criteria, 26 hips were classified as stage II and 17 hips as stage III. The preoperative Harris hip score (HSS) was 68.2±8.4. The HHS scores and X-ray photograph were compared between at pre- and post-operation to assess the outcomes clinically and radiologically.All incisions healed by first intention. Two cases had numbness of the lateral femoral skin. Four patients (6 hips) failed to be followed up, and the other 28 cases were followed up 98-187 months (mean, 129.3 months). Five patients (6 hips) showed aggravation or no relief with progression to stage IV at 8-69 months, who received total hip arthroplasty. The 10-year survival rate was 83.78% (31/37). The HHS score was significantly increased to 86.7±9.0 at last follow-up (The pedicled iliac bone flap transplantation for ANFH at Ficat stage II and III can provide good osteogenesis and vascular reconstruction of the femoral head. The long-term follow-up effectiveness is satisfactory.探讨带旋髂深血管蒂髂骨瓣植入治疗FicatⅡ、Ⅲ期股骨头缺血性坏死（avascular necrosis of femoral head，ANFH）的远期疗效。.回顾分析2000年10月-2006年2月，采用带旋髂深血管蒂髂骨瓣植入术治疗并获随访的FicatⅡ、Ⅲ期ANFH 32例（43髋）。其中男27例（38髋），女5例（5髋）；年龄21～52岁，平均36.6岁。病因：激素性8例（11髋），酒精性18例（23髋），特发性6例（9髋）。病程2～52个月，平均8.2个月。依照骨坏死Ficat分期标准：Ⅱ期26髋，Ⅲ期17髋。术前患髋Harris功能评分（Harris hip score，HHS）为（68.2±8.4）分。依据手术前后HHS评分变化和X线片改变进行临床疗效评价和影像学评价。.术后切口均Ⅰ期愈合。除2例发生大腿前外侧皮肤麻木外，无其他手术相关并发症发生。4例（6髋）失访，其余患者获随访，随访时间98～187个月，平均129.3个月。5例（6髋）术后症状无缓解或加重，8～69个月时进展至Ⅳ期，行人工全髋关节置换术；余23例（31髋）未行进一步髋部手术；股骨头10年生存率83.78%（31/37）。末次随访时，23例（31髋）HHS评分为（86.7±9.0）分，与术前比较差异有统计学意义（带旋髂深血管蒂髂骨瓣植入治疗FicatⅡ、Ⅲ期ANFH ，能够实现良好的成骨和血管重建作用，远期疗效满意。.

Replacement of chondrocytes by adult stem cells was believed to improve the performance of autologous chondrocytes transplantation, since less chondrocytes were needed. Previous studies have demonstrated that the increased cartilage production in pellet co-cultures of chondrocytes and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) is due to the trophic effects of the MSC by stimulating chondrocyte proliferation and matrix production. However, the destination of MSCs or chondrocytes after implanted in osteo-chondral defects is not clear. The aim of the present study is to investigate the viability of MSCs and chondrocytes after co-implantation into a rat osteo-chondral defect model. MSCs were isolated from bone marrow and chondrocytes were extracted from knee joints of neonatal rats. Results of sulfated glycosaminoglycans (GAG) and collagen quantification demonstrated that co-culture pellets of BMSCs and chondrocytes have more GAG deposition than that of BMSCs or chondrocytes alone. Tracking cells with fluorescence protein demonstrated that MSCs disappeared following co-culture. In a rat knee injury model, co-implantation of BMSCs and chondrocytes contained more viable chondrocytes than chondrocytes implanted alone. To conclude, BMSCs were replaced by chondrocytes in pellet co-culture and BMSCs increased the viability of chondrocytes following co-implantation in a osteo-chondral defects model. Co-implantation of BMSCs and chondrocytes may be a promising approach to repairing osteo-chondral defects in the clinical setting.

In order to judge whether the single-phase grounding fault occurs in the neutral point ungrounded power supply system (IT system) of the electric multiple units (EMU), we calculated the formula of zero-sequence voltage with three-phase load and designed the test circuit to get the grounding situation in IT system. The experimental model was simulated in MATLAB, which proved that the formula was correct. We built the actual experimental platform to test single-phase direct grounding, single-phase grounding through resistance and two-phase grounding through resistance. In the end, we obtained the range of the zero-sequence voltage and the law of the zero-sequence voltage with the three-phase load.

siRNAs and QRT-PCR primers. Table S2. QRT-PCR primers. Figure S1. Overexpression of HOXD-AS1 in HCC tissue samples. Figure S2. The biological roles of HOXD-AS1 in HCC. Figure S3. Potential downstream effectors of HOXD-AS1. Table S3. Correlation between gene expression and clinicalpathological characteristics. Figure S4. Biological roles of miR-19a in liver cancer. Table S4. Correlation between miR-19a expression and clinicalpathological characteristics. (PDF 732Â kb)

Liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy (PH) is a synchronized process that is precisely controlled by system-wide transcriptional regulatory networks. To clarify the transcriptional changes and regulatory networks that involve transcription factors (TFs) and their target genes during the priming phase, an advanced mouse oligonucleotide array-based transcription factor assay (MOUSE OATFA), mRNA microarray analysis, bioinformatic analysis and ChIP-on-chip experiments were used. A total of 774 genes were upregulated or downregulated in PH liver samples compared with the sham operation (SH) group. Seventeen TFs showed significant changes in activity in the regenerating livers, some of which have not been extensively studied in previous reports, including upstream stimulatory transcription factor 1 (USF1). The TF signatures from MOUSE OATFA were combined with mRNA expression profiles and ChIP-on-chip analyses to construct experimental transcriptional regulatory networks in regenerating livers. USF1-centered regulatory networks were further confirmed by ChIP assays, revealing some of its target genes and novel coregulatory networks. The combination of MOUSE OATFA with transcriptome profiling and bioinformatic analysis represents a novel paradigm for the comprehensive prediction of transcriptional coregulatory networks during the early phase of liver regeneration.

Purpose Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are implicated in carcinogenesis, and cellular antioxidant systems are important for detoxifying ROS and reversing oxidant-mediated modifications. Glutathione S-transferase mu (GSTM) belongs to a family of phase II detoxification enzymes that catalyze the conjugation of reduced glutathione (GSH) to a wide range of endogenous and exogenous electrophilic compounds. The genotype of GSTM1 was associated with the risk and prognosis of cancer in several meta-analyses. This study explored the function of GSTM1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and western blotting (WB) were used to detect the levels of gene and protein expression. MTS assays, Transwell assays, and flow cytometry were used to explore the function of GSTM1 in vitro. The xenograft assay and tail vein injection model were used to explore the function of GSTM1 in vivo. Results The mRNA and protein expression of GSTM1 was downregulated in HCC, but the expression levels of GSTM1 were not correlated with patient survival time. In vitro, Transwell and doxorubicin (DOX)-induced apoptosis assays revealed that GSTM1 showed opposite functions in different HCC cell lines with varied TP53 genotype statuses. The overexpression of GSTM1 in the above cell lines led to a significant decrease in ROS and an increase in GSH concentration and TP53 levels, suggesting that the controversial role of GSTM1 resulted from the TP53 genotype of HCC cells. The overexpression of GSTM1 promoted cell migration and inhibited apoptosis in the MHCC-97H cell line (TP53, R249S), but inhibited cell migration and increased apoptosis in the SMMC-7721 cell line (TP53 wildtype). Conclusion GSTM1 down-regulation may partially account for ROS-mediated oxidative damage and HCC carcinogenesis. GSTM1 also regulates tumor progression by disrupting the ROS-TP53 axis in HCC cells with different genetic backgrounds.

The excessive apoptosis of cells of the nucleus pulposus may plays an important role in intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration. It has been shown that the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α can induce disc cell apoptosis. Insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 can promote nucleus pulposus cell proliferation; however, whether or not IGF-1 inhibits TNF-α-induced apoptosis in the nucleus pulposus has not yet been elucidated. In this study, our objective was to create a potentially therapeutic viral vector, which could be used to achieve the enforced expression of IGF-1 in rabbit nucleus pulposus cells. Furthermore, we investigated the ability of IGF-1 to reverse TNF-α-induced apoptosis in cells of the nucleus pulposus. Isolated nucleus pulposus cells were cultured to a confluent monolayer, digested with collagenase Ⅱ and purified using trypsin and differential adhesion methods. Nucleus pulposus cells were positively identified using type Ⅱ collagen immunohistochemistry. Following transfection with adenoviral vectors engineered to overexpress recombinant human IGF-1 (Ad-hIGF-1) or TNF-α, the cells were observed under a light microscope. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT)-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end-labeling (TUNEL) and flow cytometry (FCM) were used to assess the rate of apoptosis. The Ad-hIGF-1 viral vector was effectively transduced into the nucleus pulposus cells and increased IGF-1 expression as confirmed by RT-PCR and western blot analysis. In the TNF-α-treated group, a large number of apoptotic cells was observed that exhibited morphological changes associated with this form of cell death. Minimal apoptosis was observed in the Ad-hIGF-1-treated group and the control group showed no obvious signs of apoptosis. TUNEL assay revealed that the rate of apoptosis in the Ad-hIGF-1 group was significantly reduced compared with the TNF-α-treated group (P

In this paper, experiments and finite element simulation were used to investigate the influence of geometric parameters on failure response of bolted single-lap composite joint. Specimens used for testing material stiffness, strength and failure of bolted single-lap composite joints were made by vacuum assisted resin injection (VARI). Two kinds of progressive failure models developed in ABAQUS/Standard and Explicit were used to simulate failure of joints. User subroutines USDFLD and VUMAT were used in these two models, respectively. Two finite element models showed an excellent agreement with experimental results. The results of the numerical analysis were presented with a focus on providing a more detailed insight into the progressive failure process, and the influence of the geometric parameter on failure of bolted composite single-lap joint. Failure model developed in ABAQUS/Explicit was found to be robust, accurate and highly efficient.

To assess the effectiveness of percutaneous Kirschner wire poking reduction and elastic stable intramedullary nailing fixation for treating severe displaced radial neck fractures in children.Between November 2010 and August 2014, 17 children with severe displaced radial neck fractures were treated with percutaneous Kirschner wire poking reduction and elastic stable intramedullary nailing fixation. There were 13 boys and 4 girls with an average age of 8.7 years (range, 6-14 years). The right side was involved in 9 cases, and the left side was involved in 8 cases. The causes of injury were falling in all cases. The angular deformity at fracture was 64-102° (mean, 84°). According to the Judet classification, 7 cases were classified as grade IVa and 10 cases as grade IVb. The time from injury to operation was 4.2 days (range, 1-7 days). Metaizeau classification and Tibone-Stoltz elbow performance score were used to access the radiological and clinical results, respectively.The operation time was 20-50 minutes (mean, 30 minutes). All incisions healed by first intention. The patients were followed up 12-46 months (mean, 20 months). All fractures healed at 2 months after operation. There was no complication of malunion, early epiphyseal closure, avascular necrosis, enlargement of the radial head epiphysis, cubitus varus and valgus deformities, or proximal radioulnar joint synostosis. One case had elbow extension limitation. At last follow-up, the elbow range of motion in flexion, extension, pronation, and supination showed no significant difference between affected side and normal side (P0.05). The clinical results were excellent in 16 cases and good in 1 case, with an excellent and good rate of 100%. The angulation was 0-12° (mean, 3.7°) on the X-ray film; anatomic reduction or nearly anatomic reduction was obtained, and the radiological results were excellent in 13 cases and good in 4 cases, with an excellent and good rate of 100%.Percutaneous Kirschner wire poking reduction followed by fixation with elastic stable intramedullary nailing is a simple, safe, minimally invasive, and effective method to treat severe displaced radial neck fractures in children.

To investigate the effectiveness and technical key points of limb salvage surgery by allotransplantation of cryopreservated vascularized bone in children and adolescents with osteosarcoma.A retrospective analysis was made on the clinical data of 21 children and adolescents with osteosarcoma receiving limb salvage surgery by allotransplantation of cryopreservated vascularized bone from their relatives between February 2004 and April 2012. There were 13 males and 8 females, aged from 7 to 16 years (mean, 12.6 years). According to Enneking stage system, 15 cases were rated as stage IIA and 6 cases as stage IIB. The tumors located at the distal femur in 10 cases, at the proximal femur in 1 case, at the proximal tibia in 8 cases, at the proximal humerus in 1 case, and at the distal radius in 1 case. Imaging examination showed that epiphyseal extension of malignant bone tumors in 7 cases. The iliac bone allograft with deep iliac vessels was obtained from their lineal consanguinity. After preservation by a two-step freezing schedule, the iliac bone allograft with deep iliac vessels was implanted into the bone defect area after tumor resection. The size of iliac bone flap was 8.0 cm x 3.0 cm x 2.0 cm-14.0 cm x 5.0 cm x 2.5 cm. Reserved joint surgery was performed on 16 cases and joint fusion surgery on 5 cases, and external fixation was used in all cases. The chemotherapy was given according to sequential high-dose methotraxate, adriamycin, and cisplatine before and after operation.All 21 cases were followed up from 5 months to 11 years (mean, 6.4 years). At 2 weeks after operation, the erythrocyte rosette forming cells accounted for 56.7% ± 3.9%, showing no significant difference when compared with that of normal control (58.3% ± 4.3%) (t = 1.56, P = 0.13), which suggested no acute rejection. At 4 weeks after operation, single photon emission computerized tomography bone scan indicated that the blood supply of bone graft was rich, and the metabolism was active. At 12 weeks after operation, the digital subtraction angiography showed the artery of iliac bone flap kept patency. X-ray films showed that malunion and non-union occurred at 5 and 6 months after operation in 1 case, respectively. The bone graft healed in the other patients, and the healing time was 3.2-6.0 months (mean, 4.4 months). At last follow-up, American Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score was significantly improved to 26.80 ± 2.14 from preoperative value (17.15 ± 1.86) (t = -4.15, P = 0.00). The survival rate was 85.7% (18/21) and the recurrence rate was 9.5% (2/21).Allotransplantation of cryopreservated vascularized bone from the relatives provides a new method for the treatment of osteosarcoma in children and adolescents. A combination of allotransplantation and chemotherapy can achieve the ideal treatment effect. The correct cutting, preservation, and transplantation of the donor bone, and indication are the key to improve the effectiveness.

In this paper, we investigate the multiple attribute decision making (MADM) problems for appraisal model of venture capital investing project based on high-tech outcome transformation with uncertain linguistic information. We utilize the uncertain linguistic weighted geometric mean (ULWGM) operator to aggregate the uncertain linguistic information corresponding to each alternative and get the overall value of the alternatives, then rank the alternatives and select the most desirable one(s) by using the formula of the degree of possibility for the comparison between two uncertain linguistic variables. Finally an illustrative example for appraisal model of venture capital investing project based on high-tech outcome transformation with uncertain linguistic information has been given to show the developed approach and to demonstrate its feasibility and practicality.

Background: The observation that asthma becomes more prevalent following puberty in females suggests estrogen potentiates the development of this disease. However, most studies examining the role of estrogen in rodent models of asthma are complicated by their reliance on ovariectomised mice in which hormones other than estrogen are also attenuated. Methods: We aimed to understand the influence of estrogen on allergic airway disease by using type I (tamoxifen) or type II (ICI 182,780) antagonists in female mice or delivering estradiol to male mice during aeroallergen challenge. Results: The antagonists showed that estrogen promoted both the mobilisation of bone marrow eosinophils and egression of eosinophils to the airway lumen. These findings were corroborated in male mice treated with estradiol, which increased eosinophil numbers in both blood and airways. Estrogen stimulated goblet cell hyperplasia and baseline lung resistance, but had little effect on the number of eosinophils in the bronchial submucosa or methacholine-induced airway hyperreactivity. Estrogen receptor α was expressed by CD4+ T cells from allergic mice, and estrogen promoted the production of IL-5 and IL-13, and suppressed the production of the eicosanoid 12-HETE by mediastinal lymph node cells. Conclusions: These data show that during aeroallergen challenge, estrogen stimulates Th2 cytokine production, which may be linked to its ability to suppress 12-HETE. Lung resistance at baseline, goblet cell hyperplasia and the compartmentalisation of eosinophils was also influenced by estrogen. However, estrogen does not play a major role in stimulating enhanced sensitivity to methacholine-induced lung resistance.

The reasons for studying single flexible body dynamics are that on one hand, it is the basis of flexible multi-body dynamics. If the theory of the single flexible body dynamics has been deeply studied, the theory of flexible multi-body dynamics will be researched easily. On the other hand, it has its unique and important applications. Quasi-variational principle of non-conservative single flexible body dynamics is established under the cross-link of particle rigid body mechanics and deformable body mechanics. Taking the interceptor as an example, this paper has explained the physical meaning of the quasi-stationary value condition of the quasi-variational principle in non-conservative single flexible body dynamics. Taking the launch of rocket as an example, it has illustrated the features of “one force for two effects” in a single flexible body dynamics. With an example of the extending flexible beam coupled with the spacecraft attitude, it has shown the transition from the single flexible body dynamics to the flexible multi-body dynamics. Finally, a number of related problems are discussed.

The Ym1/2 lectin is expressed abundantly in the allergic mouse lung in an IL-13-dependent manner. However, the role of Ym1/2 in the development of allergic airways disease is largely unknown. In this investigation, we show that treatment of mice with anti-Ym1/2 Ab during induction of allergic airways disease attenuated mediastinal lymph node production of IL-5 and IL-13. Ym1/2 was found to be expressed by dendritic cells (DCs) in an IL-13-dependent manner and supplementation of DC/CD4+ T cell cocultures with Ym1/2 enhanced the ability of IL-13−/− DCs to stimulate the secretion of IL-5 and IL-13. Affinity chromatography identified 12/15(S)-lipoxygenase (12/15-LOX) as a Ym1/2-interacting protein and functional studies suggested that Ym1/2 promoted the ability of DCs to stimulate cytokine production by inhibiting 12/15-LOX-mediated catalysis of 12-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12(S)-HETE). Treatment of DC/CD4+ T cell cultures with the 12/15-LOX inhibitor baicalein enhanced, whereas 12(S)-HETE inhibited the production of Th2 cytokines. Notably, delivery of 12(S)-HETE to the airways of mice significantly attenuated the development of allergic airways inflammation and the production of IL-5 and IL-13. In summary, our results suggest that production of Ym1/2 in response to IL-13 promotes Th2 cytokine production and allergic airways inflammation by inhibiting the production of 12(S)-HETE by 12/15-LOX.

Although it is believed that the interconversion between permissive and refractory chromatin structures is important in regulating gene transcription, this process is poorly understood. Central to addressing this issue is to elucidate how a nucleosomal array folds into higher-order chromatin structures. Such findings can then provide new insights into how the folding process is regulated to yield different functional states. Using well-defined in vitro chromatin-assembly and transcription systems, we show that a small acidic region on the surface of the nucleosome is crucial both for the folding of a nucleosomal template into the 30-nm chromatin fiber and for the efficient repression of transcription, thereby providing a mechanistic link between these two essential processes. This structure-function relationship has been exploited by complex eukaryotic cells through the replacement of H2A with the specific variant H2A.Bbd, which naturally lacks an acidic patch.

To assess the effectiveness of pedicled iliac periosteal flap graft for treatment of avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH) after femoral neck fracture in adolescents.Between December 2006 and August 2011, 9 patients (9 hips) with ANFH after femoral neck fracture were treated with pedicled iliac periosteal flap graft. There were 6 males and 3 females with an average age of 14.7 years (range, 10-18 years). Fractures were caused by traffic accident injury (5 cases), falling injury from height (3 cases), and fall injury (1 case). The time from injury to internal fixation with Kirschner wires or cannulated screws was 3-16 days, and all fractures healed within 10 months after internal fixation. The interval between fracture fixation and ANFH was 10-42 months (mean, 24.4 months). According to Steinberg staging system, 1 hip was classified as stage IIIb, 2 hips as stage IIIc, 1 hip as stage IVa, 3 hips as stage IVb, and 2 hips as stage IVc. The Harris scores and Steinberg classification were compared between at pre- and post-operation to assess the outcomes clinically and radiologically.All incisions healed by first intention. No complications of infection, deep venous thrombosis of lower limb, and pain and numbness of donor site were observed during or after operation. All patients were followed up 38-76 months (mean, 52 months). Joint pain was relieved; no leg length discrepancy was observed; the walking gait was improved and range of motion of hips was increased. The Harris score was significantly increased from 62.8 ± 3.6 at pre-operation to 92.7 ± 9.9 at last follow-up, showing significant difference (t = -12.244, P = 0.000). The hip function was excellent in 5 hips, good in 3 hips, and poor in 1 hip, and the excellent and good rate was 88.89%. Post-operative radiological assessment demonstrated that only 1 hip (stage IIIb) had further collapse of the femoral head, the other hips had no incidence of deterioration. The radiological success rate was 88.89% (8/9).The pedicled iliac periosteal flap graft for ANFH after femoral neck fracture in adolescents can provide good osteogenesis and vascular reconstruction of the femoral head.

The purpose of this study was to examine the association of the expression of Sox4 and β-catenin with the prognosis of osteosarcoma. A total of 108 cases of conventional osteosarcoma were involved in this study and 28 cases of osteochondroma served as controls. The expression of Sox4 and β-catenin was detected by using immunohistochemical staining and Western blotting. The results showed that Sox4 and β-catenin were over-expressed in 67 (62.03%) and 62 (57.41%) of 108 osteosarcoma cases, while in only 3 (10.71%) and 5 (17.86%) of 28 controls, respectively (P

To understand the location characteristics of the lumbosacral autonomic nerve plexus and the morphological changes so as to provide the anatomic theoretical basis for the protection of autonomic nerve during the lower lumbar anterior approach operation.A random anatomic investigation was carried out on 19 formalin-treated adult cadavers (15 males and 4 females; aged 44-78 years, mean 64 years). The anterior median line (connection of suprasternal fossa point and the midpoint of the symphysis pubis) was determined, and the characteristics of abdominal aortic plexus (AAP), inferior mesenteric plexus (IMP), and superior hypogastric plexus (SHP) were observed. The relationship between the autonomic nerve and the anterior median line was measured and recorded.APP and IMP were found to be located chiefly in front of the abdominal aorta in a reticular pattern, and the nerve fibers of the two nerve plexuses were more densely at the left side of abdominal aorta than at the right side. Superior hypogastric plexus showed more distinct main vessel variations, including 4 types. The main vessel length of the SHP was (59.38 ± 12.86) mm, and the width was (11.25 ± 2.92) mm. The main vessels of SHP were mainly located at the left side of the ventral median line (10, 52.6%) and anterior lumbar vertebra (13, 68.4%). The main vessels extended down to form the left and right hypogastric nerves.It is applicable to expose the nerve from the right side of centrum and move the autonomic nerve and blood vessel as a whole during anterior lower lumbar operation. In this way, the dissection to separate nerve plexus is not needed, thus nerve injury can be avoided to the largest extent.

Forkhead box L1 (FOXL1), which is considered a novel candidate tumor suppressor, inhibits proliferation and invasion in certain types of cancer. However, the regulation and function of FOXL1 in osteosarcoma remains unclear. The expression of FOXL1 gene in osteosarcoma tissues and cell lines was examined using RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis. pcDNA-FOXL1 carrying full-length FOXL1 cDNA was constructed to upregulate the level of FOXL1 expression in osteosarcoma cell lines. The proliferation, cell cycle and apoptosis of osteosarcoma cells in vitro or in vivo were examined following transfection with pcDNA-FOXL1. In addition, the expression of p21, p27, cytochrome c and caspase-3, which may be involved in the regulation of the cell cycle and apoptosis was examined using western blot analysis. The results showed that FOXL1 expression was downregulated in osteosarcoma tissues and cell lines. Loss or downregulation of FOXL1 was associated with poor prognosis. Ectopic FOXL1 expression inhibited cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. The ectopic FOXL1 expression increased the expression of p21 and p27, which induced G1 arrest in the U-2 OS cells. In addition, the ectopic FOXL1 expression induced cytochrome c release between mitochondria and cytoplasm, which disrupted the mitochondrial transmembrane potential and triggered intrinsic pathway apoptosis. In conclusion, the downregulation of FOXL1 expression was associated with osteosarcoma cell growth. Restoration of FOXL1 gene expression by gene therapy may have a therapeutic potential for patients with osteosarcoma.

Numerous studies have evaluated the association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and osteoporotic fracture risk in postmenopausal women. However, the results have been inconsistent. We performed a meta-analysis of the association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and osteoporotic fracture risk in postmenopausal women. Only seven case-control studies were retrieved, with a total of 4258 patients and 3454 healthy controls. Meta-analysis results showed no significant association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and osteoporotic fracture risk in postmenopausal women for all genetic models (for TT vs CC: OR=0.99, 95%CI=0.72-1.39; for TT vs TC: OR=1.02, 95%CI=0.87-1.20; for CC+TC vs TT: OR=0.96, 95%CI=0.71-1.28; for TT+TC vs CC: OR=0.93, 95%CI=0.84-1.03). In the subgroup analysis by ethnicity, the results also showed no significant association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and susceptibility to osteoporotic fracture in postmenopausal women in both Caucasian and Asian populations. In conclusion, this meta-analysis suggests that MTHFR C677T polymorphism may not be associated with susceptibility to osteoporotic fracture in postmenopausal women.

Background/Aims: Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the most common cancers worldwide. It has been suggested that microRNAs, a class of small regulatory RNAs, are associated with tumorigenesis by targeting the mRNAs of hundreds of genes that modulate a variety of biological processes, including cellular differentiation, apoptosis, metabolism, and proliferation. Methods/Results: we analyzed the expression levels of mir-127 in 33 HCC and non-cancerous tissues using qRT-PCR. MiR-127 is downregulated in 69.7% of HCC tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues, but its expression level is not correlated with the TNM stage, AFP level, or age. In vitro, miR-127 can arrest Huh7 at the G2/M phase and inhibit Huh7 cell proliferation. In an in vivo xenograft model, the overexpression of miR-127 can inhibit Huh7 cell tumorigenicity. The luciferase reporter and western blot results confirm that miR-127 downregulates Sept7 expression by targeting its 3'UTR. Furthermore, the knockdown of Sept7 has the same effect on cell proliferation as the overexpression of miR-127 in Huh7 cells. Conclusion: miR-127 plays a tumor-suppressor role and can serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker for HCC.

To investigate the effects of human insulin-like growth factor 1 (hIGF-1) gene transfected by recombinant adenovirus vector (Ad-hIGF-1) on the apoptosis of rabbit nucleus pulposus cells induced by tumor necrosis factor a (TNF-alpha).The intervertebral disc nucleus pulposus were harvested from 8 healthy adult domestic rabbits (male or female, weighing 2.0-2.5 kg). The nucleus pulposus cells were isolated with collagenase II digestion and the passage 2 cells were cultured to logarithm growing period, and then they were divided into 3 groups according to culture condition: DMEM/ F12 medium containing 10% PBS, DMEM/F12 medium containing 10% PBS and 100 ng/mL TNF-alpha, and DMEM/F12 medium containing 10% PBS, 100 ng/mL TNF-alpha, and Ad-hIGF-1 (multiplicity of infection of 50) were used in control group, TNF-alpha group, and Ad-hIGF-1 group, respectively. The results of transfection by adenovirus vector carrying hIGF-1 gene were observed by fluorescent microscopy; the expression of hIGF-1 protein was detected by Western blot, hIGF-1 mRNA expression by RT-PCR, and the cell apoptosis rate by TUNEL and flow cytometry.Green fluorescence was observed by fluorescent microscopy in Ad-hIGF-1 group, indicating that successful cell transfection. The expressions of hIGF-1 protein and mRNA were detected in Ad-hIGF-1 group by Western blot and RT-PCR, while the control group and TNF-alpha group had no expression. The cell apoptosis rates of TNF-alpha group, Ad-hIGF-1 group, and control group were 34.24% +/- 4.60%, 6.59% +/- 1.03%, and 0.40% +/- 0.15%, respectively. The early apoptosis rates of TNF-alpha group, Ad-hIGF-1 group, and control group were 22.16% +/- 2.69%, 5.03% +/- 0.96%, and 0.49% +/- 0.05%, respectively; the late cell apoptosis rates were 13.96% +/- 4.86%, 10.68% +/- 3.42%, and 0.29% +/- 0.06%, respectively. Compared with TNF-alpha group, the cell apoptosis rates of Ad-hIGF-1 group and control group were significantly reduced (P0.05); the cell apoptosis rate of Ad-hIGF-1 group was significantly higher than that of control group (P0.05).Ad-hIGF-1 could ingibit the apoptosis of nucleus pulposus cells induced by TNF-alpha.

To review the osteogenic mechanism and osteogenic effects of bone morphogenetic protein 6 (BMP-6) so as to provide the basis for further research of BMP-6.The related articles about the osteogenic mechanism and the osteogenic effects of BMP-6 in experimental animals were extensively summarized.BMP-6 from bone matrix can transduct the osteogenic signal to bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) by means of Smad protein signal transduction pathway. And the BMSCs which received the signals will differentiate into osteoblasts and chondroblasts. Therefore, BMP-6 plays an important role in the development and maturation of bone and cartilage. In addition, BMP-6 has a close relation with bone diseases, such as fracture, osteoporosis, and bone tumor.The deep research of BMP-6 is expected to provide a new therapeutic approach for treating bone diseases of nonunion, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis.

To observe the influence on adjacent lumbar bone density after strengthening of T12, L1 segment vertebral osteoporotic compression fracture by percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) and percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) in postmenopausal female.Between January 2008 and June 2011, 59 patients with T12, L1 segment thoracolumbar osteoporotic compression fracture were treated with PVP in 29 cases (PVP group) and PKP in 30 cases (PKP group), who were in accordance with the inclusion and exclusion criteria. No significant difference was found in gender, duration of menopause, disease druation, causes of injury, fractured vertebral body, and vertebral fracture classification between 2 groups (P0.05). The kyphosis Cobb angle of surgical area was measured at preoperation, 1 week after operation, and last follow-up; the lower three lumbar spine bone mineral density (BMD) of the surgical area, the femoral neck BMD, and body mass index (BMI) of patients were measured at perioperative period and last follow-up to find out the statement of anti-osteoporosis; FRAX online tools were used to evaluate the probability of major osteoporotic fracture and hip fracture of the next 10 years.The average follow-up was 25.5 months (range, 12-48 months) in 2 groups. There was significant difference in kyphosis Cobb angle of T12, L1 between preoperation and last follow-up in 2 groups (P0.05); the Cobb angle of PKP group was significantly less than that of PVP group at 1 week after operation and last follow-up (P0.05). No significant difference was found in BMI between 2 groups, and between perioperative period and last follow-up in the same group (P0.05). The lower three lumbar spine BMD of the surgical area and its T value at last follow-up was improved significantly when compared with BMD at perioperative period (P0.05); there was no significant difference in the lower three lumbar spine BMD and its T value between 2 groups at perioperative period (P0.05), but significant difference was found between two groups at last follow-up (P0.05). Difference was not significant in the femoral neck BMD and its T value between 2 groups, and between perioperative period and last follow-up in the same group (P0.05). The probability of major osteoporotic fracture and hip fracture of the next 10 years was not significantly different between 2 groups and between perioperative period and last follow-up in the same group (P0.05).The increased BMD of adjacent lumbar spine can improve the strength of the vertebral body and reduce the incidence of adjacent vertebral fracture in patients with T12, L1 segment vertebral osteoporotic compression fracture after PVP/PKP, and PKP is superior to PVP increasing BMD of adjacent lumbar spine.

To explore a new method for the pre-degeneration of peripheral nerve in vitro for obtaining many effective Schwann cells so as to provide a large number of seed cells for the research and application of tissue engineered nerves.The bone marrow derived cells (BMDCs) from transgenic green fluorescent protein C57BL/6 mouse and the sciatic nerve segments from the C57BL/6 mouse were co-cultured to prepare the pre-degeneration of sciatic nerve in vitro (experimental group, group A), and only sciatic nerve was cultured (control group, group B). At 7 days after culture, whether BMDCs can permeate into the sciatic nerve in vitro for pre-degeneration was observed by gross and immunohistofluorescence staining. And then Schwann cells were obtained from the sciatic nerves by enzymic digestion and cultured. The cell number was counted, and then the purity of primary Schwann cells was determined using immunohistofluorescence staining and flow cytometer analysis.At 7 days after pre-degeneration, gross observation showed that enlargement was observed at nerve stumps, and neuroma-like structure formed; the group A was more obvious than group B. Immunohistofluorescence staining showed many BMDCs permeated into the nerve segments, with positive F4/80 staining in group A. After culture, the yield of Schwann cells was (5.59 +/- 0.19) x 10(4) /mg in group A and (3.20 +/-0.21) x 10(4)/mg in group B, showing significant difference (t=2.14, P=0.03). At 48 hours after inoculation, the cells had blue bipolar or tripolar cell nuclei with small size and red soma by immunohistofluorescence staining; fibroblasts were flat polygonal with clear nucleus and nucleolus, showing negative p75NTR staining; and there were few of fibroblasts in group A. The purity of Schwann cells was 88.4% +/- 5.8% in group A and 76.1% +/-3.7% in group B, showing significant difference (t=2.38, P=0.04). And the flow cytometer analysis showed that the purity was 89.6% in group A and 74.9% in group B.BMDCs can promote the pre-degeneration of peripheral nerve in vitro, and it is a new method to effectively obtain Schwann cells for tissue engineered nerve.

Excessive apoptosis in intervertebral disc (IVD) cells is important in IVD degeneration. Interleukin (IL)-1β has been shown to induce apoptosis in these cells. However, whether insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) inhibits IL-1β-induced apoptosis in the nucleus pulposus remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of IGF-1 on IL-1β-induced apoptosis in the nucleus pulposus. Cells isolated from the nucleus pulposus were grown in culture to a monolayer. These cells were identified using immuno-histochemistry for type II collagen and toluidine blue staining for glycosaminoglycans. Following exposure to IGF-1 or IL-1β, the cells were observed using light microscopy. Giemsa staining, TdT-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end-labeling (TUNEL) and flow cytometry (FCM) were used to detect the rate of early cell death, which served as an indicator of apoptosis. In the IL-1β group, a large number of these cells underwent apoptosis and demonstrated morphological changes associated with apoptosis. A small proportion of cells exposed to IGF-1 alone underwent apoptosis. No obvious signs of apoptosis were observed in the control group. TUNEL results revealed that the rate of apoptosis in the IGF-1 group was significantly reduced compared with that in the IL-1β group (P