[The adhesion separation operation with CO₂ laser combined withtriamcinolone acetonide vocal cord submucosal injection for the treatment to vocal cord adhesion]

Objective:To investigate the effect of adhesion separation operation with CO₂ laser via prop-up laryngoscope combine with triamcinolone acetonide submucosal injection via electrolaryngoscope to vocal cords adhesion.Method:Sixteen cases of vocal cord adhesion patients(2 cases of children,14 cases of adult) were enrolled in the study. Fourteen patients had the history of surgery(Reinke edema,vocal polyp,pediatric laryngeal papilloma,laryngeal cancer),2 cases were diagnosed as laryngeal tuberculosis. Adhesion separation operation and triamcinolone acetonide submucosal injection(once a week,three weeks) were conducted. All patients were examined with electronic laryngoscope every month for six monthes.Result:Fourteen patients had good triangle shape of glottis vocalis and good sound voice. One cases of laryngeal cancer and 1 cases of laryngeal tuberculosis patients still had adhesion in the anterior commissure of the vocal cords,but with the improvement in breathing and pronunciation.Conclusion:Adhesion separation operation with CO₂ laser via prop-up laryngoscope combine with triamcinolone acetonide submucosal injection via electrolaryngoscope were effective for treatment to vocal cord adhesion,whichimprove the patient's breathing and voice with little trauma and few complications.

[Effects of different sulfonylureas on the warm-up phenomenon in diabetes patients with coronary artery disease]

Objective: To explore the different effects of chronic treatment with glibenclamide and gliclazide on the warm-up phenomenon in diabetes patients with coronary artery disease. Methods: A total of seventy-one patients with chronic stable angina and diabetes who were positive for exercise test and was proven that the stenosis degree was 70%-90% in at least one major branch through coronary angiogram were included into the study.They were divided into three groups, diet control group (DMD), glibenclamide group (DMG1) and gliclazide group (DMG2), according to the treatment of diabetes.All of the patients underwent two bicycle exercise tests (EX) at 15-minute interval.Parameters including ischaemic threshold (the rate-pressure product at 1-mm ST-segment depression, RPP), time to ischaemic (the time to 1 mm ST-segment depression, T-STD), the maximum ST-segment depression (STDmax) and exercise duration (ED) were recorded respectively. Results: In group DMD, T-STD and ED were prolonged [(360±83) s vs (409±80) s, P<0.001] and [(518±90) s vs (549±96) s, P=0.001], STDmax were shortened [(1.91±0.43) mm vs (1.60±0.36) mm, P<0.001], and RPP was increased [(180±27) beats·min(-1)·mmHg·10(2) vs (195±28) beats·min(-1)·mmHg·10(2), P<0.001] as the parameters during EX2 were compared with those during EX1. In group DMG1, there was no statistic difference in these indexes except that ED was prolonged [(458±70) s vs (472±66) s, P=0.045] when those of EX2 and EX1were compared. In the group DMG2, all the analyzed variables improved significantly during two sequential exercise tests as the results in the group DMD except that ischaemic threshold was not increased [(199±41) beats·min(-1)·mmHg·10(2) vs (211±39) beats·min(-1)·mmHg·10(2), P=0.071]. Conclutions: Warm-up phenomenon is abolished in diabetic patients with stable angina treated with glibenclamide, partially preserved in gliclazide-treated patients. and the KATP channel may be involved in those different effects. Gliclazide should be the safer choice for the patients with diabetes and chronic stable angina.

Extraction-controlled terahertz frequency quantum cascade lasers with a diagonal LO-phonon extraction and injection stage

We report an extraction-controlled terahertz (THz)-frequency quantum cascade laser design in which a diagonal LO-phonon scattering process is used to achieve efficient current injection into the upper laser level of each period and simultaneously extract electrons from the adjacent period. The effects of the diagonality of the radiative transition are investigated, and a design with a scaled oscillator strength of 0.45 is shown experimentally to provide the highest temperature performance. A 3.3 THz device processed into a double-metal waveguide configuration operated up to 123 K in pulsed mode, with a threshold current density of 1.3 kA/cm² at 10 K. The QCL structures are modeled using an extended density matrix approach, and the large threshold current is attributed to parasitic current paths associated with the upper laser levels. The simplicity of this design makes it an ideal platform to investigate the scattering injection process.

[Study of the effects in vitro of berberine combined with bortezomib on multiple myeloma cell line U266 cells]

Objective: To investigate the effects of berberine in combination with bortezomib on proliferation and apoptosis of multiple myeloma (MM) cell line. Methods: MM cell line U266 cells were treated with berberine and/or bortezomib. The effects of berberine and/or bortezomib on proliferation of cells were measured by methylthiazolyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT). Flow cytometric Annexin Ⅴ/PI double staining method was used to detect effect of either drug alone or in combination on apoptosis of MM cell line U266. ELISA was used to measure the expression of casepase-3,-8,-9 affected by the two drugs. Western blot was used to detect the expression of the apoptosis-related protein TRADD and FADD. King formula was used to determine if there was a synergistic effect of berberine in combination with bortezomib. Results: ① Both berberine and bortezomib as single agent had dose- and time-dependent effects of proliferation inhibition on U266 cells. Berberine (20 μmol/L) and bortezomib (5 nmol/L) had a synergistic effect of proliferation inhibition (Q value: 1.31-1.65). ② The proportion of early stage apoptosis in both single agent groups and combination group significantly increased compared to control group (P< 0.05). Berberine and bortezomib had a synergistic effect on cell apoptosis (Q value after 6 h and 12 h were 0.896 and 1.197, respectively). ③ Berberine in combination with bortezomib significantly upregulated expressions of caspase-3, -8 and -9, which were statistically significant (P<0.05). ④Berberine in combination with bortezomib significantly upregulated expressions of TRADD (0.91±0.01, 0.70±0.01) and FADD (0.98±0.01, 0.98±0.01) compared with control group (both P<0.05). Conclusion: Berberine in combination with bortezomib had synergistic effects on proliferation inhibition and apoptosis, which were mediated by up-regulated levels of TRADD and FADD.

Label-free detection of fibrillar collagen deposition associated with vascular elements in glioblastoma multiforme by using multiphoton microscopy

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM-WHO grade IV) is the most common and the most aggressive form of brain tumors in adults with the median survival of 10-12 months. The diagnostic detection of extracellular matrix (ECM) component in the tumour microenvironment is of prognostic value. In this paper, the fibrillar collagen deposition associated with vascular elements in GBM were investigated in the fresh specimens and unstained histological slices by using multiphoton microscopy (MPM) based on two-photon excited fluorescence (TPEF) and second harmonic generation (SHG). Our study revealed the existence of fibrillar collagen deposition in the adventitia of remodelled large blood vessels and in glomeruloid vascular structures in GBM. The degree of fibrillar collagen deposition can be quantitatively evaluated by measuring the adventitial thickness of blood vessels or calculating the ratio of SHG pixel to the whole pixel of glomeruloid vascular structure in MPM images. These results indicated that MPM can not only be employed to perform a retrospective study in unstained histological slices but also has the potential to apply for in vivo brain imaging to understand correlations between malignancy of gliomas and fibrillar collagen deposition.

Gly71Arg UGT1A1 polymorphism is associated with breast cancer susceptibility in Han Chinese women

Breast cancer is among the most common causes of cancer-related death in women worldwide. Previous studies have demonstrated an association between prolonged estrogen exposure and increased risk of breast cancer. Uridine 5'-diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase 1-1 (UGT1A1) plays a significant role in the detoxification of estrogens. Two major genetic polymorphisms have been identified in the UGT1A1 locus. UGT1A1*28 has been previously linked to increased risk of breast cancer. The aim of this study was to elucidate the possible correlation between UGT1A1*6, a single nucleotide polymorphism causing a Gly71Arg substitution, and breast cancer susceptibility. Forty-six women diagnosed with breast cancer, 15 patients with gastrointestinal cancer, and 13 healthy women were recruited to this study. The genotype in the polymorphic UGT1A1 locus was determined by DNA sequencing. The frequency of each genotype was compared among the three groups. The frequency of the UGT1A1*6 allele was significantly higher in breast cancer and gastrointestinal cancer patients than that in healthy females (both P < 0.05). No significant associations were observed between the UGT1A1*6 polymorphism and estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, HER-2 expression status, menstrual status, or metastasis (all P > 0.05). Therefore, the UGT1A1*6 polymorphism was deduced to be a risk factor for breast cancer in women of Han Chinese ethnicity. UGT1A1 may serve as a therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of breast cancer and other estrogen-related diseases.

[Forensic Analysis of 20 Dead Cases Related to Heroin Abuse]

OBJECTIVES

To perform retrospective analysis on 20 dead cases related to heroin abuse, and to provide references for the forensic assessment of correlative cases.

METHODS

Among 20 dead cases related to heroin abuse, general situation, using method of drug, cause of death and result of forensic examination were analyzed by statistical analysis for summarizing the cause of death and pathologic changes.

RESULTS

The dead were mostly young adults, with more male than female. The results of histopathological examinations showed non-specific pathological changes. There were four leading causes of death, including acute poisoning of heroin abuse or leakage （13 cases, 65%）, concurrent diseases caused by heroin abuse （3 cases, 15%）, inspiratory asphyxia caused by taking heroin （2 cases, 10%）, and heroin withdrawal syndrome （2 cases, 10%）.

CONCLUSIONS

The forensic identification on dead related to heroin abuse must base on the comprehensive autopsy, and combine with the qualitative and quantitative analysis of heroin and its metabolites in death and the case information, as well as the scene investigation.

Tiapride is more effective and causes fewer adverse effects than risperidone in the treatment of senile dementia

OBJECTIVE

We wanted to compare the effects of tiapride and risperidone in treating behavioral and psychological symptoms of senile dementia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

108 patients with senile dementia received respective treatments (54 patients per treatment, either with 100 mg/day risperidone or 2.0 mg tiapride/day) for 2 months. Outcomes included the positive and negative syndrome scale (PANSS) scores, the curative rate of senile dementia, and prevalence of adverse effects (somnolence, headache, loss of weight, extrapyramidal system response, irritation and insomnia).

RESULTS

PANSS scores before treatment were comparable between treatment groups. On days 7, 15, 30, and 60 of the treatment, the differences between two treatment groups became evident. Thus, curative rates in patients treated with risperidone were 74.1% and in those treated with tiapride 88.9% (p < 0.05). Prevalence of adverse reactions was significantly lower in the latter group (9.3% vs. 25.9% in patients treated with risperidone; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Tiapride is more effective in improving clinical symptoms of senile dementia and causes fewer adverse effects.

Diffraction-limited ultrabroadband terahertz spectroscopy

Diffraction is the ultimate limit at which details of objects can be resolved in conventional optical spectroscopy and imaging systems. In the THz spectral range, spectroscopy systems increasingly rely on ultra-broadband radiation (extending over more 5 octaves) making a great challenge to reach resolution limited by diffraction. Here, we propose an original easy-to-implement wavefront manipulation concept to achieve ultrabroadband THz spectroscopy system with diffraction-limited resolution. Applying this concept to a large-area photoconductive emitter, we demonstrate diffraction-limited ultra-broadband spectroscopy system up to 14.5 THz with a dynamic range of 10(3). The strong focusing of ultrabroadband THz radiation provided by our approach is essential for investigating single micrometer-scale objects such as graphene flakes or living cells, and besides for achieving intense ultra-broadband THz electric fields.

Experimental transmission of Babesia microti by Rhipicephalus haemaphysaloides

Background

Human babesiosis is considered an emerging threat in China. Dozens of human infections with Babesia microti have been reported recently, especially in southern China. However, the transmission vectors of this parasite in these areas are not well understood. Rhipicephalus haemaphysaloides, which is one of the dominant tick species in southern China, is a major vector of bovine babesiosis in China. However, whether this tick has the potential to transmit B. microti has not been tested. The present study experimentally investigated the transmission competence of B. microti through R. haemaphysaloides ticks.

Methods

Larvae and nymphs of R. haemaphysaloides ticks were fed on laboratory mice infected by B. microti. The infection was detected by PCR at 4 weeks post-molting. BALB/c and NOD/SCID mice were infested by nymphs molting from larvae that ingested the blood of infective mice, and blood samples were then analyzed by PCR.

Results

Experimental transstadial transmission of R. haemaphysaloides for B. microti was proved in both the larvae to nymph and the nymph to adult transstadial routes. The positive rate of B. microti was 43.8 % in nymphs developed from larvae consumed infected mice and 96.7 % in adults developed from nymphs exposed to positive mice. Among the mice infested by infective nymphs, B. microti was detected in 16.7 % (2/12) of the BALB/c mice and in all of the NOD/SCID (6/6). However, the parasite was not observed to persist beyond more than one molt, and transovarial transmission did not occur.

Conclusions

This is the first study to demonstrate that B. microti can be transmitted artificially by R. haemaphysaloides. This tick species might be a potential vector of human babesiosis in southern China, which represents a public health concern.

Detection of dextrogastria by gastroscopy: Report of two cases and literature review

To summarize the characteristics of gastroscopic manifestations of dextrogastria, two patients with dextrogastria who underwent gastroscopy were analyzed retrospectively and a literature review was performed. The two patients underwent successful gastroscopy in the left lateral decubitus position, and the gastroscopic detection was more difficult than that for normal stomach. Several important characteristics of gastroscopic manifestations were found: (1) The gastric fundus was found on the right of the cardia when the gastroscope arrived the cardia; (2) The folds of the greater curvature run contrary to the normal direction; (3) There were lakes of mucin in the gastric antrum but not in the gastric fundus. These characteristics can be used to diagnose dextrogastria by gastroscopy.

Dynamic evolution process of multilayer core-shell microstructures within containerlessly solidifying Fe(50)Sn(50) immiscible alloy

Multilayer core-shell structures are frequently formed in polymers and alloys when temperature and concentration fields are well symmetrical spatially. Here we report that two- to five-layer core-shell microstructures were the dominant structural morphology of a binary Fe(50)Sn(50) immiscible alloy solidified under the containerless and microgravity states within a drop tube. Three dimensional phase field simulation reveals that both the uniformly dispersive structure and the multilayer core-shells are the various metastable and transitional states of the liquid phase separation process. Only the two-layer core-shell is the most stable microstructure with the lowest chemical potential. Because of the suppression of Stokes motion, solutal Marangoni migration becomes important to drive the evolution of core-shell structures.

Large-Scale Self-Assembly of 3D Flower-like Hierarchical Ni/Co-LDHs Microspheres for High-Performance Flexible Asymmetric Supercapacitors

In this study, a facile and inexpensive and self-assembled strategy to massively fabricate Ni/Co layered double hydroxides (LDHs) is developed under mild reaction conditions (55 °C). The resulting composite material displays a special three-dimensional hierarchical microsphere structure with well-defined flower-like configuration. The fabrication mechanism can be ascribed to stepwise and regular reaction process of nanoparticles and nanosheets gradually growing to nanopetals and then assembling into flower-like microspheres, based on the systematically investigation of various reaction factors including the Ni:Co feeding ratio, the reaction time and the initial pH-value. Because of its large surface, ultrathin feature and synergetic results of this Ni/Co LDHs nanosheets (20 nm), these Ni/Co-LDHs microspheres deliver an excellent capacitance value about 2228 F·g(-1) (1 A·g(-1)). An all-solid-state flexible asymmetric supercapacitor is designed and assembled by exploiting this Ni/Co-LDHs as the positive materials, which exhibits energy density of 165.51 Wh·kg(1-) at 1.53 KW·kg(1-). It may have vast potential significance in personal wearable equipment. Moreover, this monolithic design provides a promising approach for large scale fabrication of other LDHs materials.

Mid-infrared photodetectors operating over an extended wavelength range up to 90 K

We report a wavelength threshold extension, from the designed value of 3.1 to 8.9 μm, in a p-type heterostructure photodetector. This is associated with the use of a graded barrier and barrier offset, and arises from hole-hole interactions in the detector absorber. Experiments show that using long-pass filters to tune the energies of incident photons gives rise to changes in the intensity of the response. This demonstrates an alternative approach to achieving tuning of the photodetector response without the need to adjust the characteristic energy that is determined by the band structure.

Amorphization of cobalt monoxide nanocrystals and related explosive gas sensing applications

Amorphous nanomaterials have attracted attention due to their excellent performances, highly comparable to their crystalline counterparts. Sensor materials with amorphous phases are usually evaluated to be unsuitable for sensors because of poor performance. As a matter of fact, amorphous nanomaterials have rather unique sensor behaviors. Here, we report the amorphousization of cobalt monoxide (CoO) nanocrystals driven by a unique process involved in laser ablation in liquid (LAL). We also established that a fast and nonequilibrium process created by LAL results in the amorphousization of nanocrystals. The as-prepared amorphous CoO (a-CoO) nanoflakes possess a high aspect ratio, which showed good sensing of explosive gases. The fabricated gas sensor can detect CO and H2 at levels as low as 5 and 10 ppm, respectively, at 100 °C. The performance characteristics of this sensor, including high sensitivity, low working temperature, and low detection limit, are superior to those of sensors made with crystalline phase oxides. Meanwhile, a temperature-dependent p-n transition was observed in the sensor's response to CO, suggesting that the sensing properties can be tailored by changing the carrier type, thus tuning the selectivity of sensors to different gases. These findings demonstrate the potential applications of amorphous nanomaterials as gas sensor components.

P1BS, a conserved motif involved in tolerance to phosphate starvation in soybean

Available phosphate (Pi) is a major limiting factor for plant growth, development, and productivity. Phosphate starvation response 1 (PHR1) is a binding dimer that binds to an imperfect palindromic sequence. PHR1-binding sequences (GnATATnC) exist in the promoter of Pi starvation-responsive structural genes, indicating an effect occurring downstream in the Pi starvation signaling pathway. These sequences are referred to as PHR1-binding site (P1BS) structures. In this study, the sequences of GmPHR1 and GmSPX1 from Glycine max (L.) Merr. soybean were determined and analyzed. We found that GmPHR1 is an MYB-related transcription factor. In addition, GmSPX1 contained a P1BS structure, which is an important cis-regulatory motif in the phosphate signaling pathway. We found that GmPHR1 can physically interact with GmSPX1 through the cis-element, which may be a major pathway for the GmPHR1-mediated Pi starvation stress response. Thus, the P1BS structure in the Pi starvation signaling pathway is an important cis-regulatory motif that improves the tolerance to low phosphorus conditions in soybean.

Three-dimensional terahertz imaging using swept-frequency feedback interferometry with a quantum cascade laser

We demonstrate coherent three-dimensional terahertz imaging by frequency modulation of a quantum cascade laser in a compact and experimentally simple self-mixing scheme. Through this approach, we can realize significantly faster acquisition rates compared to previous schemes employing longitudinal mechanical scanning of a sample. We achieve a depth resolution of better than 0.1 μm with a power noise spectral density below -50  dB/Hz, for a sampling time of 10  ms/pixel.

Active phase-nulling of the self-mixing phase in a terahertz frequency quantum cascade laser

We demonstrate an active phase-nulling scheme for terahertz (THz) frequency quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) under optical feedback, by active electronic feedback control of the emission frequency. Using this scheme, the frequency tuning rate of a THz QCL is characterized, with significantly reduced experimental complexity compared to alternative approaches. Furthermore, we demonstrate real-time displacement sensing of targets, overcoming the resolution limits imposed by quantization in previously implemented fringe-counting methods. Our approach is readily applicable to high-frequency vibrometry and surface profiling of targets, as well as frequency-stabilization schemes for THz QCLs.

Optical sideband generation up to room temperature with mid-infrared quantum cascade lasers

Mid-infrared (MIR) sideband generation on a near infrared (NIR) optical carrier is demonstrated within a quantum cascade laser (QCL). By employing an externally injected NIR beam, E(NIR), that is resonant with the interband transitions of the quantum wells in the QCL, the nonlinear susceptibility is enhanced, leading to both frequency mixing and sideband generation. A GaAs-based MIR QCL (E(QCL) = 135 meV) with an aluminum-reinforced waveguide was utilized to overlap the NIR and MIR modes with the optical nonlinearity of the active region. The resulting difference sideband (E(NIR) - E(QCL)) shows a resonant behavior as a function of NIR pump wavelength and a maximum second order nonlinear susceptibility, χ((2)), of ~1 nm/V was obtained. Further, the sideband intensity showed little dependence with the operating temperature of the QCL, allowing sideband generation to be realized at room temperature.

The MBE growth and optimization of high performance terahertz frequency quantum cascade lasers

The technique of molecular beam epitaxy has recently been used to demonstrate the growth of terahertz frequency GaAs/AlGaAs quantum cascade lasers (QCL) with Watt-level optical output powers. In this paper, we discuss the critical importance of achieving accurate layer thicknesses and alloy compositions during growth, and demonstrate that precise growth control as well as run-to-run growth reproducibility is possible. We also discuss the importance of minimizing background doping level in maximizing QCL performance. By selecting high-performance active region designs, and optimizing the injection doping level and device fabrication, we demonstrate total optical (two-facet) output powers as high as 1.56 W.

A metallic metal oxide (Ti5O9)-metal oxide (TiO2) nanocomposite as the heterojunction to enhance visible-light photocatalytic activity

Coupling titanium dioxide (TiO2) with other semiconductors is a popular method to extend the optical response range of TiO2 and improve its photon quantum efficiency, as coupled semiconductors can increase the separation rate of photoinduced charge carriers in photocatalysts. Differing from normal semiconductors, metallic oxides have no energy gap separating occupied and unoccupied levels, but they can excite electrons between bands to create a high carrier mobility to facilitate kinetic charge separation. Here, we propose the first metallic metal oxide-metal oxide (Ti5O9-TiO2) nanocomposite as a heterojunction for enhancing the visible-light photocatalytic activity of TiO2 nanoparticles and we demonstrate that this hybridized TiO2-Ti5O9 nanostructure possesses an excellent visible-light photocatalytic performance in the process of photodegrading dyes. The TiO2-Ti5O9 nanocomposites are synthesized in one step using laser ablation in liquid under ambient conditions. The as-synthesized nanocomposites show strong visible-light absorption in the range of 300-800 nm and high visible-light photocatalytic activity in the oxidation of rhodamine B. They also exhibit excellent cycling stability in the photodegrading process. A working mechanism for the metallic metal oxide-metal oxide nanocomposite in the visible-light photocatalytic process is proposed based on first-principle calculations of Ti5O9. This study suggests that metallic metal oxides can be regarded as partners for metal oxide photocatalysts in the construction of heterojunctions to improve photocatalytic activity.

THz quantum cascade lasers operating on the radiative modes of a 2D photonic crystal

Photonic-crystal lasers operating on Γ-point band-edge states of a photonic structure naturally exploit the so-called "nonradiative" modes. As the surface output coupling efficiency of these modes is low, they have relatively high Q factors, which favor lasing. We propose a new 2D photonic-crystal design that is capable of reversing this mode competition and achieving lasing on the radiative modes instead. Previously, this has only been shown in 1D structures, where the central idea is to introduce anisotropy into the system, both at unit-cell and resonator scales. By applying this concept to 2D photonic-crystal patterned terahertz frequency quantum cascade lasers, surface-emitting devices with diffraction-limited beams are demonstrated, with 17 mW peak output power.

Improved ion implant fluence uniformity in hydrogen enhanced glow discharge plasma immersion ion implantation into silicon

Enhanced glow discharge plasma immersion ion implantation does not require an external plasma source but ion focusing affects the lateral ion fluence uniformity, thereby hampering its use in high-fluence hydrogen ion implantation for thin film transfer and fabrication of silicon-on-insulator. Insertion of a metal ring between the sample stage and glass chamber improves the ion uniformity and reduces the ion fluence non-uniformity as the cathode voltage is raised. Two-dimensional multiple-grid particle-in-cell simulation confirms that the variation of electric field inside the chamber leads to mitigation of the ion focusing phenomenon and the results are corroborated experimentally by hydrogen forward scattering.

On-chip terahertz spectroscopic techniques for measuring mesoscopic quantum systems

We present the self-aligned fabrication of on-chip devices in which waveguides, incorporating integrated photoconductive switches, are combined with two-dimensional electron systems to allow probing of the ultrafast (terahertz frequency range) properties of confined semiconductor systems, both at cryogenic temperatures and in high magnetic fields. We demonstrate the direct injection of on-chip terahertz pulses into the mesoscopic system by femtosecond, near infra-red laser excitation of in-plane photoconductive switches formed on an epitaxially grown, low-temperature GaAs layer, which is integrated monolithically with a GaAs∕AlGaAs heterostructure containing a two-dimensional electron system. Both the input and output terahertz signals of an on-chip waveguide are sampled by altering dynamically the photoconductive excitation∕detection arrangement in situ on a single device. We also demonstrate a new method for sub-Kelvin excitation and detection of on-chip terahertz frequency radiation in a (3)He∕(4)He dilution refrigerator that allows the photocurrent and detected terahertz transient to be mapped as function of the near-infrared excitation position at the emitter and the detector, respectively. Furthermore, we demonstrate transmission of terahertz transients through a two-dimensional electron system in a coplanar waveguide under magnetic field at temperatures as low as 200 mK.

Effect of temperature change on power generation of microbial fuel cell

Microbial fuel cell (MFC), which can directly generate electricity from biodegradable materials, has been receiving increasing attention. Effects of temperature change on power density, electrode potential, columbic efficiency, chemical oxygen demand removal and internal resistance in two chambers MFCs were examined in this paper. The maximum power density of 7.89 W/m3 was achieved at 37 degrees C, with 199% higher at 10 degrees C (2.64 W/m3), 24% higher at 30 degrees C (6.34 W/m3) and 21% higher at 43 degrees C, no steady power generation was observed at 55 degrees C. Low temperature to 10 degrees C might have a huge effect on anode potential, especially at higher current, but increasing the temperature to 43 degrees C had a main effect on the cathode performance when the MFCs have been established at 37 degrees C. The internal resistance of MFC was about 29 omega at 37 degrees C, and increased 62% and 303% when MFC switched to 30 degrees C and 10 degrees C. Similarly, internal resistance increased 48% at 43 degrees C. The effect of temperature on MFC performance was expressed by internal resistance, the higher the internal resistance of MFC, the lesser the power density obtained. The Columbic efficiencies were 8.65% at 30 degrees C, 8.53% at 37 degrees C, and 13.24% at 43 degrees C. These results demonstrate that MFCs can effectively be operated over a wide range of temperatures.

Systematic review of randomized controlled trials of traditional Chinese medicine treatment of non-acute bronchial asthma complicated by gastroesophageal reflux

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effectiveness and safety of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatment of non-acute bronchial asthma complicated by gastroesophageal reflux.

METHODS

We searched databases from MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, CNKI, VIP, CBM, Wanfang Data, and TCM Database Systems. All randomized, controlled trials (RTCs) of TCM treatment of non-acute asthma complicated by gastroesophageal reflux were included. Data were independently collected by two reviewers. The standards for assessing quality described in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions were used to evaluate articles. Meta-analyses were conducted using Rev- Man 5.0.17 software. Heterogeneity was assessed, and a corresponding effects model was used to merge and analyze results. Indexes used to evaluate curative effects were: clinical efficacy, symptom scores, pulmonary function values, and adverse incidents. Effectiveness was indicated using risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

RESULTS

Six RCTs were included, involving 304 patients with non-acute asthma complicated by gastroesophageal reflux. The treatment groups received Chinese drugs alone or TCM combined with standard Western medical treatment, and the control groups received standard Western medical treatment alone. Standard Western medical treatment included anti-inflammatory drugs and bronchodilators for asthma, and drugs to promote gastric peristalsis and inhibit gastric acid production for gastroesophageal reflux. Methodological quality was low in all six RCTs. Two RCTs showed that clinical efficacy was higher in the treatment group than in the control group (RR: 1.43, 95%CI: 1.10 to 1.87 vs RR: 1.51, 95% CI: 1.09 to 2.08). One RCT showed that the asthma score was lowered more effectively in the treatment group than in the control group (MD:-1.10, 95% CI:-2.04 to-0.16). Two RCTs showed that the gastroesophageal reflux score was reduced more effectively in the treatment group than in the control group (RR:-3.70, 95% CI:-4.30 to 3.10 vs RR:-5.30, 95% CI:-6.32 to -4.28). One RCT showed that some pulmonary function values were improved more effectively in the treatment group than in the control group (P < 0.05). No differences were seen in the various indexes between groups in the other RCTs. No adverse reactions, dropout rates, or follow-up rates were reported in any of the RCTs.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical symptoms of non-acute asthma complicated by gastroesophageal reflux can be improved by some Chinese drugs. Curative effects can be increased by combining the use of TCM with Western medicine. Because of the small quantity and low quality of research reported to date, it is necessary to conduct further RCTs to confirm these results. The results of this systematic review indicate that the quality of future clinical trials should be improved by including larger patient numbers, correctly randomizing patients into study groups, using blinding methods to measure and assess outcomes, and using accepted indexes to evaluate curative effects.

A community-based investigation on restless legs syndrome in a town in China

OBJECTIVE

To assess the prevalence and severity of restless legs syndrome (RLS) in a town in China and to explore potential factors correlated with the severity of the disease.

METHODS

Face-to-face home interviews were conducted among a random sample of 2101 residents in one town in China, all aged 16 years and above. An individual questionnaire was administered to all participants to obtain a diagnosis of RLS and other information. An additional questionnaire was then handed out to each patient diagnosed with RLS to collect information on RLS severity and potential factors correlating with RLS severity.

RESULTS

The prevalence of RLS in the studied population was 7.2%. The prevalence in women was significantly higher than in men and increased with age. Diabetes mellitus, anemia, arthritis, and varicose veins were also associated with RLS. Among the 152 patients, 21.7% were classified as having severe RLS. Multiple correlation analysis reveals that RLS severity was positively correlated with longer disease duration, number of cigarettes smoked per day, and level of work-related physical activity, but negatively correlated with level of leisure time physical activity.

CONCLUSIONS

RLS is common in the studied population. Lifestyle factors may be associated with RLS severity.

Genetic variation of chicken MC1R gene in different plumage colour populations

1. Genetic variation in the chicken MC1R gene was analysed through bioinformatic methods after polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and sequencing of the coding region of MC1R gene from 5 different populations with 4 plumage colours (black, grey plumage with black spots, yellow plumage with black spots, red). 2. A total of 11 novel variations were detected in Hebei chickens, of which 8 were non-synonymous. Allele distribution analysis showed that the wild-type e(+) (Brown Leghorn) allele was mainly found in Hy-Line Brown and Lohmann Brown, the dominant Extended black E(AY220304) allele was mainly found in Hebei chicken with black plumage, whereas the Buttercup (e(bc)) allele was rare. 3. Nucleotide diversity (π) within each colour strain of Hebei chickens (0·0047-0·0052) was significantly greater than that of Hy-Line Brown (0·0024) or Lohmann Brown (0·0043). 4. The results indicate that there is abundant polymorphism in the MC1R gene, especially in Hebei chicken, which was associated with its rich plumage colour diversity.

Young's type interference for probing the mode symmetry in photonic structures

A revisited realization of the Young's double slit experiment is introduced to directly probe the photonic mode symmetry by photoluminescence experiments. We experimentally measure the far field angular emission pattern of quantum dots embedded in photonic molecules. The experimental data well agree with predictions from Young's interference and numerical simulations. Moreover, the vectorial nature of photonic eigenmodes results in a rather complicated parity property for different polarizations, a feature which has no counterpart in quantum mechanics.

[Introduction of dynamic balancing randomization method and its application]

Following the development of clinical trials, the methodology of clinical trials has developed a great deal, including randomization method and blinding method, etc. The method of randomization includes simple randomization, stratification randomization, etc. Dynamic randomization is also considered as a method of randomization. Two dynamic randomization methods are introduced in this paper, including a method considering the balance of numbers in each group and a method considering prognostic factors. This paper also demonstrates the procedure of dynamic randomization of the above two methods by simulations and actual examples.

In vitro bioactivity of bioresorbable porous polymeric scaffolds incorporating hydroxyapatite microspheres

Biomimetic composites consisting of polymer and mineral components, resembling bone in structure and composition, were produced using a rapid prototyping technique for bone tissue engineering applications. Solid freeform fabrication, known as rapid prototyping (RP) technology, allows scaffolds to be designed with pre-defined and controlled external and internal architecture. Using the indirect RP technique, a three-component scaffold with a woodpile structure, consisting of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), chitosan and hydroxyapatite (HA) microspheres, was produced that had a macroporosity of more than 50% together with micropores induced by lyophilization. X-ray diffraction analysis indicated that the preparation and construction of the composite scaffold did not affect the phase composition of the HA. The compressive strength and elastic modulus (E) for the PLLA composites are 0.42 and 1.46 MPa, respectively, which are much higher than those of chitosan/HA composites and resemble the properties of cellular structure. These scaffolds showed excellent biocompatibility and ability for three-dimensional tissue growth of MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblastic cells. The pre-osteoblastic cells cultured on these scaffolds formed a network on the HA microspheres and proliferated not only in the macropore channels but also in the micropores, as seen from the histological analysis and electron microscopy. The proliferating cells formed an extracellular matrix network and also differentiated into mature osteoblasts, as indicated by alkaline phosphatase enzyme activity. The properties of these scaffolds indicate that they can be used for non-load-bearing applications.

SNP detection and haplotype analysis in partial sequence of MSTN gene in sheep

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products of the MSTN gene amplified from sixty sheep of nine Chinese indigenous sheep breeds and one imported sheep breed were sequenced to identify the single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in a 378-bp fragment including intron 2 and exon 3 of the MSTN gene. A total of fifteen SNPs (A1937C, T1942G, C1956T, A1972C, A1990G, A2008C, A2011G, C2019T, A2025C, A2027C, T2085G, T2173C, C2198T, C2210T and C2213T) were detected among the sixty sequenced individuals and they were all located in intron 2. Twelve haplotypes were identified from these fifteen SNPs, of which haplotype I (CGTCGCGTCCGCTTT) and VIII (ATCAAAACAATTCCC) were the two major and basic ones with frequencies of 12.25% and 77.80%, respectively. Haplotype VIII was distributed in all sheep breeds and all individuals of the meat or meat-wool type sheep breeds were homozygous with respect to this haplotype. This suggests that haplotype VIII might be related to meat production traits in sheep. Haplotype I was only distributed in the fur, lambskin type and fur-meat type sheep breeds. This suggests that haplotype I may have some relationship with fur traits in sheep.

Oh my aching gut: irritable bowel syndrome, Blastocystis, and asymptomatic infection

Blastocystis is a prevalent enteric protozoan that infects a variety of vertebrates. Infection with Blastocystis in humans has been associated with abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, skin rash, and other symptoms. Researchers using different methods and examining different patient groups have reported asymptomatic infection, acute symptomatic infection, and chronic symptomatic infection. The variation in accounts has lead to disagreements concerning the role of Blastocystis in human disease, and the importance of treating it. A better understanding of the number of species of Blastocystis that can infect humans, along with realization of the limitations of the existing clinical laboratory diagnostic techniques may account for much of the disagreement. The possibility that disagreement was caused by the emergence of particular pathogenic variants of Blastocystis is discussed, along with the potential role of Blastocystis infection in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Findings are discussed concerning the role of protease-activated receptor-2 in enteric disease which may account for the presence of abdominal pain and diffuse symptoms in Blastocystis infection, even in the absence of fever and endoscopic findings. The availability of better diagnostic techniques and treatments for Blastocystis infection may be of value in understanding chronic gastrointestinal illness of unknown etiology.

Extensive multiparasitism in a village of Yunnan province, People's Republic of China, revealed by a suite of diagnostic methods

Intestinal multiparasitism, the accuracy of different diagnostic techniques, and the influence of sampling effort were studied among 215 individuals in a Bulang village, Yunnan province, People's Republic of China. Behavioral, demographic, and socioeconomic data were obtained by questionnaire. Multiple stool specimens were examined by the Kato-Katz, Koga agar plate, Baermann, and ether-concentration methods. Eight helminth and 7 protozoa species were diagnosed. The prevalence of each of the 3 main soil-transmitted helminths (Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworm, and Trichuris trichiura) exceeded 85%. Blastocystis hominis was the most prevalent intestinal protozoan (20.0%). Over 80% of the individuals harbored 3 or more intestinal parasites concurrently. The infection intensities were predominantly light for hookworm and T. trichiura but moderate for A. lumbricoides. Examination of 3 instead of 1 stool specimen increased the sensitivity of helminth diagnosis, most notably for hookworm. Intestinal multiparasitism is rampant in this rural part of Yunnan province and calls for control measures.

Polymorphism of the PRNP gene in the main breeds of indigenous Chinese goats

The polymorphism of the PRNP gene plays a key role in susceptibility to prion disease. Scrapie is a neurodegenerative disease affecting sheep and goats and belongs to the group of prion diseases. We isolated DNA from 333 goat samples representing the main local goat breeds in six provinces in China to identify PRNP polymorphisms and to determine whether these breeds were at risk for developing scrapie. Two novel amino acid polymorphisms (R211G and T219I) and a novel silent mutation at codon 125 as well as nine previously reported polymorphisms were observed. Twenty-eight alleles and forty-nine different genotypes were obtained. The codon 142M associated with resistance of goat scrapie was not found in this study. The codon 143R was relatively rare. The codon 222K, a potentially useful candidate site for selecting for scrapie resistance, was also rare in indigenous Chinese goats. These results could provide some useful data for assessing the risk of scrapie in Chinese indigenous goats.

Intraband carrier photoexcitation in quantum dot lasers

We unveil the role of bound-to-continuum photoexcitation of carriers as a relevant process that affects the performance of quantum dot (QD) lasers. We present the response of an InAs/InGaAs QD laser to a sub-band gap pump, showing an unexpected depletion of the emitted photons. We relate this observation with carrier photoexcitation through additional transmission and photocurrent measurements. We provide a theoretical support to the experimental data and highlight the important role of this process in the laser characteristics.

Occurrence of Strongyloides stercoralis in Yunnan Province, China, and comparison of diagnostic methods

BACKGROUND

Strongyloides stercoralis is a neglected soil-transmitted helminth species, and there is a lack of parasitologic and epidemiologic data pertaining to this parasite in China and elsewhere. We studied the local occurrence of S. stercoralis in a village in Yunnan province, China, and comparatively assessed the performance of different diagnostic methods.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Multiple stool samples from a random population sample were subjected to the Kato-Katz method, an ether-concentration technique, the Koga agar plate method, and the Baermann technique. Among 180 participants who submitted at least 2 stool samples, we found a S. stercoralis prevalence of 11.7%. Males had a significantly higher prevalence than females (18.3% versus 6.1%, p = 0.011), and infections were absent in individuals <15 years of age. Infections were only detected by the Baermann (highest sensitivity) and the Koga agar plate method, but neither with the Kato-Katz nor an ether-concentration technique. The examination of 3 stool samples rather than a single one resulted in the detection of 62% and 100% more infections when employing the Koga agar plate and the Baermann technique, respectively. The use of a mathematical model revealed a 'true' S. stercoralis prevalence in the current setting of up to 16.3%.

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

We conclude that S. stercoralis is endemic in the southern part of Yunnan province and that differential diagnosis and integrated control of intestinal helminth infections needs more pointed emphasis in rural China.

Helminth infections and risk factor analysis among residents in Eryuan county, Yunnan province, China

Whilst infections with soil-transmitted helminths are common across China, the public-health significance of Schistosoma japonicum and food-borne helminths is more focalized. Only few studies have investigated the local epidemiology of helminth infections in rural China, including risk factor analysis. We collected stool and blood samples from 3220 individuals, aged 5-88 years, from 35 randomly selected villages in Eryuan county, Yunnan province, China. Stool samples were subjected to the Kato-Katz technique and examined for helminth eggs. Blood samples were tested for Trichinella spp., S. japonicum and cysticerci-specific antibodies. Data on individual and family-level risk factors were collected using questionnaires. The prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides, Taenia spp., Trichuris trichiura and hookworms was 15.4%, 3.5%, 1.7% and 0.3%, respectively. The seroprevalence of Trichinella spp. was 58.8% and that of cysticercosis 18.5%. The egg positivity rate of S. japonicum in the 13 known endemic villages was 2.7%, and the corresponding seroprevalence was 49.5%. We observed a strong spatial heterogeneity in the families' economic status. S. japonicum infections were more prevalent among the Han than Bai nationality (odds ratio (OR)=3.77, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.97-7.23) and tobacco growers (OR=3.66, 95% CI=1.77-7.60) and was only found at elevations below 2150 m above sea level. A. lumbricoides and Taenia spp. infections were more prevalent at altitudes above 2150 m when compared to lower settings (OR=1.51, 95% CI=1.24-1.84 and OR=5.32, 95% CI=3.42-8.28, respectively). The opposite was found for T. trichiura (OR=0.31, 95% CI=0.14-0.70). Our findings can guide the design and spatial targeting of control interventions against helminth infections in Eryuan county.

Molecular epidemiology of human Blastocystis in a village in Yunnan province, China

The purpose of this study was to improve our understanding of the molecular epidemiology of human Blastocystis, focusing on 239 randomly selected individuals in a single village in Yunnan province, China. Emphasis was placed on the relative frequency of different Blastocystis subtypes and underlying risk factors. We used a cross-sectional study design, by employing a pre-tested questionnaire to obtain demographic data and behavioural risk factors, and collected faecal samples for culture and subsequent identification of Blastocystis. DNA was extracted from Blastocystis isolates and the subtypes were identified using 7 subtype-specific sequenced-tagged site (STS) primers. Overall, 78 faecal samples were Blastocystis culture-positive (32.6%, 95% confidence interval: 26.7-38.6%). The majority (n=73, 93.6%) were single infections with one of the known subtypes, whereas 2 isolates consisted of 2 concurrent subtypes. The remaining 3 isolates could not be identified with the currently known STS primers. Risk factors for a Blastocystis infection were drinking unboiled water, consumption of raw water plants and pig ownership. The consumption of raw water plants was positively associated with subtype 1 infections, and drinking unboiled water with subtype 3 infections. In conclusion, human Blastocystis was common in this village in southwest China, and different subtypes were associated with distinct transmission routes or sources of infection, and hence Blastocystis subtypes might be linked to specific environmental compartments.

Effects of adrenalectomy on the excitability of neurosecretory parvocellular neurones in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus

Glucocorticoids are well known to inhibit the release of hypophysiotrophic hormones from neurones originating in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN), but the cellular mechanisms of the inhibition are not well understood. Here, we examined the effects of adrenalectomy (ADX) on the spontaneous firing activity in the neurosecretory parvocellular PVN neurones of rat brain slices. The neurones were identified by injecting a retrograde dye into the pituitary stalk and classified according to their electrophysiological properties. The intranuclear distribution, electrophysiological properties, and hypophysiotrophic hormone phenotype of the labelled type II PVN neurones were similar to neurosecretory parvocellular PVN neurones. In the neurones of sham-operated rats under the cell-attached recording mode, we observed three spontaneous activity patterns: tonic regular (24%), tonic irregular (36%), and silent (40%). Noradrenaline (100 microM) induced an excitatory or an inhibitory effect on the spontaneous activity. Noradrenergic excitation was blocked by prazosin (2 microM, alpha(1)-adrenoceptor antagonist), and mimicked by phenylephrine (100 microM, alpha(1)-adrenoceptor agonist), whereas noradrenergic inhibition was blocked by yohimbine (2 microM, alpha(2)-adrenoceptor antagonist) and mimicked by clonidine (50 microM, alpha(2)-adrenoceptor agonist). In the neurones of ADX rats, we found burst firing in 35% of neurones tested and an increase in the frequency of spontaneous firing. The burst firing was not observed in the neurones of the sham-operated rats. ADX caused a 1.7-fold increase in the proportion of neurones showing the noradrenergic excitation. Supplementation of the ADX rats with corticosterone (10 mg pellet) reversed the ADX-induced burst firing, and the potentiation of noradrenergic excitation. In summary, our results show that removal of corticosterone by ADX can elevate the neuronal excitability by increasing the spontaneous firing rate and by potentiating the alpha(1)-adrenoceptor-mediated noradrenergic excitation, and it can facilitate hormone release by inducing burst firing. Our results provide new insight to the cellular mechanisms of the feedback inhibition by glucocorticoids in the neurosecretory parvocellular neurones of the PVN.

Rapid and efficient nonviral gene delivery of CD154 to primary chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells

Interactions between CD40 and CD40 ligand (CD154) are essential in the regulation of both humoral and cellular immune responses. Forced expression of human CD154 in B chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL) cells can upregulate costimulatory and adhesion molecules and restore antigen-presenting capacity. Unfortunately, B-CLL cells are resistant to direct gene manipulation with most currently available gene transfer systems. In this report, we describe the use of a nonviral, clinical-grade, electroporation-based gene delivery system and a standard plasmid carrying CD154 cDNA, which achieved efficient (64+/-15%) and rapid (within 3 h) transfection of primary B-CLL cells. Consistent results were obtained from multiple human donors. Transfection of CD154 was functional in that it led to upregulated expression of CD80, CD86, ICAM-I and MHC class II (HLA-DR) on the B-CLL cells and induction of allogeneic immune responses in MLR assays. Furthermore, sustained transgene expression was demonstrated in long-term cryopreserved transfected cells. This simple and rapid gene delivery technology has been validated under the current Good Manufacturing Practice conditions, and multiple doses of CD154-expressing cells were prepared for CLL patients from one DNA transfection. Vaccination strategies using autologous tumor cells manipulated ex vivo for patients with B-CLL and perhaps with other hematopoietic malignancies could be practically implemented using this rapid and efficient nonviral gene delivery system.

Salmonellosis outbreak among factory workers--Huizhou, Guangdong Province, China, July 2004

INTRODUCTION

During July 9--14, 2004, an outbreak of gastroenteritis occurred among workers at an electronics factory in Huizhou, Guangdong Province, China; 199 cases were reported. A case-control investigation was initiated to identify the agent and the mode of transmission.

METHODS

Stool samples were collected from 142 workers and food handlers and cultured for enteric pathogens. A questionnaire concerning meals and foods eaten in the factory cafeteria during July 11--13 was administered to 92 ill workers and 100 controls.

RESULTS

Of approximately 2,000 workers who worked during the outbreak, 197 (10%) had illness consistent with the case definition. Salmonella enteritidis was identified from 44 (31%) of 142 stool samples collected from ill workers. Ill workers were more likely than controls to have eaten breakfast in the factory cafeteria during July 11--13. Of eight foods served at breakfast in the factory cafeteria, three were associated with illness: cake, bread (on July 12 only), and congee (i.e., rice porridge). Stratification of bread and congee exposure by cake consumption indicated that only bread eaten on July 12 was associated with gastroenteritis. The cake was baked on July 11, and a mixture that included raw eggs was poured on top; the cake was then stored at room temperature and served for breakfast on 3 consecutive days (July 11--13). The bread was stored together with the cake on July 11 and 12. No leftover food was tested.

DISCUSSION

The investigation indicated that an outbreak of S. enterica serotype Enteritidis resulted from consumption of an unusual food vehicle (i.e., cake) that had been contaminated from a more typical source (i.e., raw eggs). The bread was stored at room temperature together with cake on which a mixture made from raw eggs had been poured. The bread was probably contaminated by contact with the cake.

CONCLUSION

Food handlers should be instructed that intact fresh eggs can harbor S. enteritidis, foods made from eggs must be cooked, and prepared food must be stored under refrigeration.

Seedling and Adult Plant Resistance to Powdery Mildew in Chinese Bread Wheat Cultivars and Lines

Powdery mildew, caused by Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici, is a widespread wheat disease in China. Identification of race-specific genes and adult plant resistance (APR) is of major importance in breeding for an efficient genetic control strategy. The objectives of this study were to (i) identify genes that confer seedling resistance to powdery mildew in Chinese bread wheat cultivars and introductions used by breeding programs in China and (ii) evaluate their APR in the field. The results showed that (i) 98 of 192 tested wheat cultivars and lines appear to have one or more resistance genes to powdery mildew; (ii) Pm8 and Pm4b are the most common resistance genes in Chinese wheat cultivars, whereas Pm8 and Pm3d are present most frequently in wheat cultivars introduced from CIMMYT, the United States, and European countries; (iii) genotypes carrying Pm1, Pm3e, Pm5, and Pm7 were susceptible, whereas those carrying Pm12, Pm16, and Pm20 were highly resistant to almost all isolates of B. graminis f. sp. tritici tested; and (iv) 22 genotypes expressed APR. Our data showed that the area under the disease progress curve, maximum disease severity on the penultimate leaf, and the disease index are good indicators of the degree of APR in the field. It may be a good choice to combine major resistance genes and APR genes in wheat breeding to obtain effective resistance to powdery mildew.

Genetic polymorphisms of the HCR gene and a genomic segment in close proximity to HLA-C are associated with patients with psoriasis in Taiwan

BACKGROUND

Although psoriasis vulgaris (PV) is strongly associated with HLA-Cw*0602, it has been proposed that the association of Cw*0602 is due to linkage disequilibrium and that other nearby genes are involved in PV susceptibility. The alpha-helix coiled-coil rod homologue (HCR) gene, located 110 kb telomeric to the HLA-C locus, is presumed to be one of the PV candidate genes. Recently, a 10-kb genomic segment, centromeric to HLA-C, defined by two new single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) n.7*A and n.9*C, was found to have a stronger association with psoriasis than the HCR gene. Until now, no study of the association of the HCR gene, SNPs n.7, and n.9 has been conducted on Chinese patients with psoriasis.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to determine whether the genetic polymorphisms of the HCR gene, SNPs n.7*A, and n.9*C were associated with an increased risk of psoriasis in Chinese patients.

METHODS

Using direct sequencing of the HCR gene and the genomic region containing SNPs n.7 and n.9, we investigated the HCR gene, SNPs n.7, and n.9 for disease association in 115 Chinese patients with psoriasis and 103 control subjects. The HCR SNPs were confirmed by denaturing high performance liquid chromatography. Genotyping for HLA-Cw*0602 was also carried out using sequence-based typing.

RESULTS

We observed a different allelic distribution between patient and control groups at nucleotide positions 386, 404, 1802 and 2406 of the HCR gene, and SNPs n.7, and n.9. The associations were much stronger in early onset PV patients (for HCR-386*T and HCR-404*T, odds ratio = 5.63, Pc < 0.0001). The HLA-Cw*0602 also displayed a similar association with PV (odds ratio = 5.4, Pc < 0.0001). Moreover, SNP n.7*A, SNP n.9*C, Cw*0602, HCR-386*T, HCR-404*T and HCR-1802*T were in linkage disequilibrium with each other. Haplotype-based association analysis showed SNP n.7*A-SNP n.9*C-Cw*0602-HCR-386*T-HCR-404*T-HCR-1802*T-HCR-2406*G as a major susceptibility haplotype in this Chinese population (for early onset patients, odds ratio = 5.15, Pc < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that the HCR gene, SNP n.7*A, and SNP n.9*C as well as Cw*0602 are major susceptibility markers for psoriasis in Chinese patients.

Subtypes of alpha1- and alpha2-adrenoceptors mediating noradrenergic modulation of spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus

Noradrenergic inputs to the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) play important roles in the regulation of neuroendocrine and autonomic functions. Previous reports show that noradrenaline increases the frequency of spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sIPSCs) in a subpopulation of type II neurones, acting via alpha(1)-adrenoceptors (ARs), but reduces this frequency in most type I and another subpopulation of type II neurones, via alpha(2)-ARs on presynaptic GABA neurones. Here, we identified the subtypes of alpha-ARs mediating noradrenaline-induced increases and decreases in the sIPSC frequency of PVN neurones, by using slice patch recordings from PVN neurones. In both type I and II neurones, the noradrenaline-induced decrease in sIPSC frequency was completely blocked by BRL44408 (alpha(2A)-AR antagonist) at 1-3 micro M, which is approximately 1/100 of its equilibrium dissociation constant (pA(2) = 8.0), but not by prazosin (20-100 micro M, alpha(2B/C)-AR antagonist; pA(2) = 7.5). The effect of noradrenaline was mimicked by guanfacine (alpha(2A)-AR agonist) with an EC(50) of 0.1 micro M. In type II neurones, the noradrenaline-induced increase in sIPSC frequency was not blocked by any of the following antagonists: RS17053 (10 micro M, alpha(1A)-AR antagonist), BMY7378 (2 micro M, alpha(1D)-AR antagonist), prazosin (0.1 micro M, alpha(1)-AR antagonist; pA(2) = 10.5), or chloroethylclonidine (10 micro M, alpha(1B/D)-AR antagonist). However, the effect of noradrenaline was blocked by higher concentrations of prazosin (1 micro M) or RS17053 (100 micro M), suggesting the involvement of alpha(1L)-subtype, a low affinity form of alpha(1A)-ARs. Collectively, our results indicate that the alpha(2A)-, or alpha(1L)-ARs on the GABA neurones mediate the noradrenaline-induced decreases, or increases in the frequencies of the sIPSCs of PVN neurones, respectively.

Transdifferentiation of neoplastic cells

Transdifferentiation is a process in which a stable cell's phenotype changes to that of a distinctly different cell type. It occurs during certain physiological processes and leads to transition of tumor cell phenotypes. The latter process includes neoplastic epithelial-epithelial transition, neoplastic epithelial-mesenchymal transition, neoplastic mesenchymal-epithelial transition and transition between non-neural and neural neoplastic cell. This phonomenon is exemplified in some origin-debated tumors, such as carcinosarcoma, pleomorphic adenoma, synovial sarcoma, Ewing's/pPNET, and malignant fibrohistiocytoma. We propose that differentiation disturbance of cancer cells should include not only undifferentiation and dedifferentiation, but also transdifferentiation as well. Tumor cell transdifferentiation may be influenced or determined by cellular genetic instabilities, proliferation and apoptosis, as well as by extracellular matrix and growth factors.

Protein kinase activity is central to rat germ cell apoptosis induced by methoxyacetic acid

Methoxyacetic acid (MAA) is a major metabolite of ethylene glycol monomethyl ether (EGME). Previous investigations of the testicular lesion induced by EGME have found that dividing meiotic cells are the most sensitive, although several stages of spermatocytes are also vulnerable. Preliminary data from this lab suggested the involvement of protein kinase activity in the development of this lesion, a hypothesis explored in the present studies. We used cultured seminiferous tubules (STs) from juvenile rats (25-day-old), exposed in vitro to MAA and several inhibitors of protein kinases. Nineteen h following a 5-h exposure to 5 mM MAA (the plasma level in vivo after a toxic dose of EGME), apoptotic spermatocytes were seen in early- and late-stage STs. Cell death was prevented by cotreatment with broad-spectrum inhibitors of protein kinases such as H-7, H-8, K-252a, W-7, and genistein. In corroboration, immunocytochemistry with antibodies to various kinases (PKCmu, zeta, and gamma, AKAP220, CaMKII, MLCK, and Src) showed increased staining around dying spermatocytes following EGME treatment in vivo. 2D-PAGE, autoradiography, and nanospray mass spectrometry was used to separate and identify proteins whose phosphorylation status was most greatly changed following exposure to MAA. One protein was identified by sequence analysis as being glucose-regulated protein 94 (grp94). Westem blotting and immunocytochemistry confirmed this finding. The data we present implicate kinase activities in the pathogenesis of this lesion and suggest the involvement of Sertoli cells.