Carbon-based molecular devices: Fano effects controlled by the molecule length and the gate voltage

Fano effect is an important quantum phenomenon in mesoscopic systems, which arises from an interference between the localized state and the extended state. Here we observe an obvious Fano effect near the Fermi level in an all-carbon molecular device consisting of an acene molecule sandwiched between two zigzag graphene nanoribbon (ZGNR) electrodes. By increasing the length of the molecule, an extended state gradually evolves into a localized state. With the aid of the nearby extended state, a Fano effect is achieved. Using a gate voltage, we can easily tune the Fano effect induced by the single-transmission channel. When the spin degree of freedom is involved, the all-carbon device can show a half-metallic property with positive or negative 100% spin polarization at the Fermi level under the gate voltage; meanwhile the spin thermoelectric effect can also be enhanced.

Genomic identification, phylogeny, and expression analysis of MLO genes involved in susceptibility to powdery mildew in Fragaria vesca

The MLO (powdery mildew locus O) gene family is important in resistance to powdery mildew (PM). In this study, all of the members of the MLO family were identified and analyzed in the strawberry (Fragaria vesca) genome. The strawberry contains at least 20 members of the MLO family, and the protein sequence contained between 171 and 1485 amino acids, with 0-34 introns. Chromosomal localization showed that the MLOs were unevenly distributed on each of the chromosomes, except for chromosome 4. The greatest number of MLOs (seven) was found on chromosome 3. A phylogenetic tree showed that the MLOs were divided into seven groups (I-VII), four of which consisted of MLOs from strawberry, Arabidopsis thaliana, rice, and maize, suggesting that these genes may have evolved after the divergence of monocots and dicots. Multiple sequence alignment showed that strawberry MLO candidates related to powdery mildew resistance possessed seven highly conserved transmembrane domains, a calmodulin-binding domain, and two conserved regions, all of which are important domains for powdery mildew resistance genes. Expressed sequence tag analysis revealed that the MLOs were induced by multiple abiotic stressors, including low and high temperature, drought, and high salinity. These findings will contribute to the functional characterization of MLOs related to PM susceptibility, and will assist in the development of disease resistance in strawberries.

Apocynin Attenuates Cerebral Infarction after Transient Focal Ischaemia in Rats

This study investigated whether inhibition of reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase attenuates cerebral infarction after transient focal ischaemia in rats. Focal ischaemia (1.5 h) was produced in male Sprague-Dawley rats (250 − 280 g) by middle cerebral artery occlusion. Some rats also received treatment with 50 mg/kg apocynin, a NADPH oxidase inhibitor, by intraperitoneal injection 30 min prior to reperfusion. Two hours after reperfusion, brains were harvested to measure NADPH oxidase activity and superoxide levels. After 24 h, the remaining brains were harvested to investigate infarct size. NADPH oxidase activity and superoxide level were all augmented 2 h after reperfusion compared with controls. Apocynin treatment significantly reduced NADPH oxidase activity and superoxide levels. Cerebral infarct size was significantly smaller in the apocynin-treated group compared with those undergoing ischaemia/reperfusion alone. These results indicate that inhibition of NADPH oxidase attenuates cerebral infarction after transient focal ischaemia in rats, suggesting that inhibition of NADPH oxidase may provide a therapeutic strategy for ischaemic stroke.

Relationship between TBX20 gene polymorphism and congenital heart disease

Congenital heart disease in children is a type of birth defect. Previous studies have suggested that the transcription factor, TBX20, is involved in the occurrence and development of congenital heart disease in children; however, the specific regulatory mechanisms are yet to be evaluated. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the relationship between the TBX20 polymorphism and the occurrence and development of congenital heart disease. The TBX20 gene sequence was obtained from the NCBI database and the polymorphic locus candidate was predicted. Thereafter, the specific gene primers were designed for the restriction fragment length polymorphism-polymerase chain reaction (RFLP-PCR) of DNA extracted from the blood of 80 patients with congenital heart disease and 80 controls. The results of the PCR were subjected to correlation analysis to identify the differences between the amplicons and to determine the relationship between the TBX20 gene polymorphism and congenital heart disease. One of the single nucleotide polymorphic locus was found to be rs3999950: c.774T>C (Ala265Ala). The TC genotype frequency in the patients was higher than that in the controls, similar to that for the C locus. The odds ratio of the TC genotypes was above 1, indicating that the presence of the TC genotype increases the incidence of congenital heart diseases. Thus, rs3999950 may be associated with congenital heart disease, and TBX20 may predispose children to the defect.

Publisher's Note: Isomer Shift and Magnetic Moment of the Long-Lived 1/2^{+} Isomer in _{30}^{79}Zn_{49}: Signature of Shape Coexistence near ^{78}Ni [Phys. Rev. Lett. 116, 182502 (2016)]

This corrects the article DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.116.182502.

Isomer Shift and Magnetic Moment of the Long-Lived 1/2^{+} Isomer in _{30}^{79}Zn_{49}: Signature of Shape Coexistence near ^{78}Ni

Collinear laser spectroscopy is performed on the _{30}^{79}Zn_{49} isotope at ISOLDE-CERN. The existence of a long-lived isomer with a few hundred milliseconds half-life is confirmed, and the nuclear spins and moments of the ground and isomeric states in ^{79}Zn as well as the isomer shift are measured. From the observed hyperfine structures, spins I=9/2 and I=1/2 are firmly assigned to the ground and isomeric states. The magnetic moment μ (^{79}Zn)=-1.1866(10)μ_{N}, confirms the spin-parity 9/2^{+} with a νg_{9/2}^{-1} shell-model configuration, in excellent agreement with the prediction from large scale shell-model theories. The magnetic moment μ (^{79m}Zn)=-1.0180(12)μ_{N} supports a positive parity for the isomer, with a wave function dominated by a 2h-1p neutron excitation across the N=50 shell gap. The large isomer shift reveals an increase of the intruder isomer mean square charge radius with respect to that of the ground state, δ⟨r_{c}^{2}⟩^{79,79m}=+0.204(6)  fm^{2}, providing first evidence of shape coexistence.

[Adverse effects of low dose exposures to cadmium below renal damage level should be emphasized for human health effect studies]

Currently, the pollution of heavy metal, including lead, cadmium (Cd) and mercury, was one of the major environmental problems in China. Cd could cause adverse effects on kidney, bone, lung and reproductive system. Most of the past researches focused on renal damage effect, and some evidences suggestedadverse effects on bone, tumor, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and mineral elements, etc, which was occurred at low dose exposures to Cd below renal damage level. An important content of human health effect Studies on exposures to Cd is to follow up the development and consequences of adverse effects after long-term exposure to environmental Cd and then reduction or cessation of its exposure among this population. In this paper, the progress and development trend of long-term environmental exposure to Cd and its health damage effect were reviewed.

Effect of cadmium exposure on the histopathology of cerebral cortex in juvenile mice

Cadmium, a heavy metal, is a toxic environmental and industrial pollutant. Exposure to cadmium can lead to the toxic effects in a variety of tissues, also including the brain. The present study investigated the effect of cadmium exposure on the histopathology of cerebral cortex in juvenile mice. Juvenile mice were randomly divided into control, low (1.87 mg/kg), medium (3.74 mg/kg), and high (7.48 mg/kg) dose groups. After cadmium exposure by drinking water for 10 days, the cerebral cortex was obtained for histopathology studies. The medium and high dose of cadmium, rather than low dose, could induce the histopathology alterations of cerebral cortex in a dose-dependent manner. In the high-dose group, microstructure significantly showed pia mater encephali divorcing from cerebral cortex layer, serious hyperemia of blood capillary in pia mater encephali and cerebral cortex, broadening vessel peripheral clearance, a large number of eosinophil leukocyte infiltrating around blood vessel, vacuolar degeneration in part granule cells, and obviously increasing apoptotic cells. Ultrastructure obviously displayed marginalized heterochromatin, incomplete or fused nuclear membranes, broadened perinuclear space, ambiguous mitochondria cristae, decreased synaptic cleft, and fused presynaptic and postsynaptic membrane. Our results revealed that cadmium at the middle and high dose could induce obvious microstructure and ultrastructure alterations of cerebral cortex in juvenile mice, which may be one important mechanism of cadmium neurotoxicity.

Effectiveness of external fixator combined with T-plate internal fixation for the treatment of comminuted distal radius fractures

This study compared the efficacy between external fixator combined with palmar T-plate internal fixation and simple plate internal fixation for the treatment of comminuted distal radius fractures. A total of 61 patients classified as type C according to the AO/ASIF classification underwent surgery for comminuted distal radius fractures. There were 54 and 7 cases of closed and open fractures, respectively. Moreover, 19 patients received an external fixator combined with T-plate internal fixation, and 42 received simple plate internal fixation. All patients were treated successfully during 12-month postoperative follow-up. The follow-up results show that the palmar flexion and dorsiflexion of the wrist, radial height, and palmar angle were significantly better in those treated with the external fixator combined with T-plate compared to those treated with the simple plate only (P < 0.05); however, there were no significant differences in radial-ulnar deviation, wrist range of motion, or wrist function score between groups (P > 0.05). Hence, the effectiveness of external fixator combined with T-plate internal fixation for the treatment of comminuted distal radius fractures was satisfactory. Patients sufficiently recovered wrist, forearm, and hand function. In conclusion, compared to the simple T-plate, the external fixator combined with T-plate internal fixation can reduce the possibility of the postoperative re-shifting of broken bones and keep the distraction of fractures to maintain radial height and prevent radial shortening.

A new class of electrocatalysts of supporting Pt on an Engel-Brewer alloy substrate: a demonstration for oxidation of ethylene glycol

A novel electrocatalytic surface consisting of a Pt monolayer (ML) on an Hf-Ir alloy substrate demonstrated significantly higher activity (six times) and higher selectivity to CO2 formation than bulk Pt in oxidizing ethylene glycol. This enhanced performance could be associated with the high reducibility of Hf oxide and altered electronic property of the Pt ML.

The urogenital-hypogastric sheath: an anatomical observation on the relationship between the inferomedial extension of renal fascia and the hypogastric nerves

PURPOSE

The study aimed to perform an anatomical observation on the inferomedial extension of the renal fascia (RF) to the pelvis and explore its relationship with the hypogastric nerves (HGNs).

METHODS

Gross anatomy was performed on 12 formalin-fixed and 12 fresh cadavers. Sectional anatomy was performed on four formalin-fixed cadavers.

RESULTS

Different from the traditional concept, both the anterior and posterior RF included the outer and inner layer with different inferomedial extensions. The multiple layers of RF extended downward to form a sandwich-like and compound fascia sheath with potential and expandable spaces which was named as "the urogenital-hypogastric sheath." Below the level of the origin of the inferior mesenteric artery, the bilateral urogenital-hypogastric sheath communicated with the counterpart in front of the great vessels in the midline and the superior hypogastric plexus ran into the urogenital-hypogastric sheath which carried the HGNs, ureters, and genital vessels downward to their terminations in the pelvis. In the retrorectal space, the urogenital-hypogastric sheath surrounded the fascia propria of the rectum posterolaterally as a layer of coat containing HGNs.

CONCLUSION

The multiple layers of RF with different extensions are the anatomical basis of the formation of the urogenital-hypogastric sheath. As a special fascial structure in the retroperitoneal space and the pelvis, emphasis on its formation and morphology may be helpful for not only unifying the controversies about the relationship between the pelvic fascia and HGNs but also improving the intraoperative preservation of the HGNs by dissecting in the correct surgical plane.

Degradation and dissolution of hemicelluloses during bamboo hydrothermal pretreatment

To elucidate the hemicelluloses degradation and dissolution during hydrothermal pretreatment, hemicelluloses separated from both hydrolysate and pretreated substrate were investigated. Along with the pretreatment proceeding, some hemicelluloses fractions dissolved and diffused into the bulk liquor; MW (molecular weight) of these hemicelluloses fractions increased first and then decreased as well as amount of the fractions. Based on the definition of MW of the soluble hemicellulose, it has been concluded that some insoluble hemicellulose fractions appeared in the hydrolysate. In contrast, the hemicellulose degradation occurred continually and had been observed by the gradual decrease of MW of the hemicellulose isolated from pretreated substrate. Lingering dissolution at the later stage might attribute to the facts that some soluble fractions were still entrapped in the substrate. 5-15% hemicellulose fractions remained in the pretreated substrate at the later stage were composed of soluble species.

Effect of Lactobacillus plantarum on diarrhea and intestinal barrier function of young piglets challenged with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli K88

The present study was performed to investigate the preventative effect of Lactobacillus plantarum on diarrhea in relation to intestinal barrier function in young piglets challenged with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) K88. Seventy-two male piglets (4 d old) were assigned to 2 diets (antibiotic-free basal diet with or without L. plantarum, 5 × 10(10) cfu/kg diet) and subsequently challenged or not with ETEC K88 (1 × 10(8) cfu per pig) on d 15 in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Feed intake and BW were measured on d 15 and 18 (3 d after challenge) for determination of growth performance. On d 18, 1 piglet from each pen was slaughtered to evaluate small intestinal morphology and expression of tight junction proteins at the mRNA and protein levels while another piglet was used for the intestinal permeability test. Before and after ETEC K88 challenge, piglets fed L. plantarum had greater BW, ADG, and ADFI (P < 0.05) and marginally greater G:F (P < 0.10) compared to piglets fed the unsupplemented diet. After ETEC K88 challenge, the challenged piglets did not show an impaired growth performance but had greater incidence of diarrhea compared to the nonchallenged piglets. There was an interaction between dietary L. plantarum and ETEC K88 challenge (P < 0.05) as L. plantarum prevented the ETEC K88-induced diarrhea. Piglets challenged with ETEC K88 also had greater urinary lactulose:mannitol and plasma concentration of endotoxin, shorter villi, deeper crypt depth, and reduced villous height:crypt depth in the duodenum and jejunum and decreased zonula occludens-1 mRNA and occludin mRNA and protein expression in the jejunum (P < 0.05). These deleterious effects caused by ETEC K88 were inhibited by feeding L. plantarum (P < 0.05). There were no effects of either treatment on the morphology and expression of tight junction proteins in ileum. In conclusion, L. plantarum, given to piglets in early life, improved performance and effectively prevented the diarrhea in young piglets induced by ETEC K88 challenge by improving function of the intestinal barrier by protecting intestinal morphology and intestinal permeability and the expression of genes for tight junction proteins (zonula occludens-1 and occludin).

Lignin removal and benzene-alcohol extraction effects on lignin measurements of the hydrothermal pretreated bamboo substrate

Lignin content of hydrothermal pretreated bamboo chips was determined by the two methods: TAPPI standard method (222om-06) and TAPPI standard method without benzene-alcohol extraction (BAE). The results showed that including BAE resulted in lower Klason lignin (KL) and acid soluble lignin (ASL) measurements in the prehydrolyzed substrate, that is to say, BAE removed parts of KL and ASL. Therefore, the TAPPI standard method should be modified by omitting the BAE for lignin measurements of pretreated substrate. The following lignin removal analysis suggested that lignin was removed from the bamboo substrate during pretreatment by a combination of degradation reaction and deconstruction; thereafter the pseudo lignin generated in the hydrothermal pretreatment and condensation reaction between the lignin fragments accounted for the later KL increase.

Development of high-speed and wide-angle visible observation diagnostics on Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak using catadioptric optics

A new wide-angle endoscope for visible light observation on the Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) has been recently developed. The head section of the optical system is based on a mirror reflection design that is similar to the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor-like wide-angle observation diagnostic on the Joint European Torus. However, the optical system design has been simplified and improved. As a result, the global transmittance of the system is as high as 79.6% in the wavelength range from 380 to 780 nm, and the spatial resolution is <5 mm for the full depth of field (4000 mm). The optical system also has a large relative aperture (1:2.4) and can be applied in high-speed camera diagnostics. As an important diagnostic tool, the optical system has been installed on the HT-7 (Hefei Tokamak-7) for its final experimental campaign, and the experiments confirmed that it can be applied to the investigation of transient processes in plasma, such as ELMy eruptions in H-mode, on EAST.

Effect of Portulaca oleracea extracts on growth performance and microbial populations in ceca of broilers

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Portulaca oleracea extracts on growth performance and microbial populations in the ceca of broilers. A total of 120 one-day-old broilers were randomly divided into 3 groups. Portulaca oleracea extracts were added to diets at 0.2 and 0.4% (wt/wt; POL-0.2, POL-0.4), respectively. The control (CON) group was administered with no P. oleracea extract supplementation. Body weight gain and feed conversion ratio were recorded every 2 wk. On d 28 and 42, the cecal contents were collected and assayed for Escherichia coli, Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacterium populations. Additionally, the pH of the ileum and cecum was measured. The results showed that both on d 28 and 42 BW gain of P. oleracea extract supplementation groups was significantly higher, whereas the feed conversion ratio was lower (P < 0.05) compared with CON. On d 28 and 42, significantly (P < 0.05) fewer E. coli were recovered from ceca of broilers provided with the POL-0.2 diet than from broilers provided with the control diet. The quantities of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium of POL-0.2 were significantly (P < 0.05) higher than CON. Results showed P. oleracea extracts have no distinct influence on intestinal pH. These data suggest that P. oleracea extract supplementation significantly altered the cecal bacterial community without affecting the intestinal pH.

Damaging effects of water-borne cadmium chloride on DNA of lung cells of immature mice

We investigated the effects of cadmium on lung cell DNA in immature mice. The mice were randomly divided into four groups: control group, low-dose group (1/100 LD(50)), middle-dose group (1/50 LD(50)), and high-dose group (1/25 LD(50)); they were supplied with cadmium chloride or control water for 40 days. Lung cells collected from sacrificed mice were used to evaluate the extent of DNA damage by comet assay. The ratio of tailing cells, DNA tail length, DNA comet length, DNA tail moment, DNA olive tail moment, and percentage of DNA in the comet tail were measured. The rate of tailing lung cells exposed to cadmium increased significantly; the low-concentration group had significantly (P < 0.05) higher rates, and the middle- and high-concentration groups had higher (P < 0.01) rates compared to the control. DNA tail length, DNA comet length, DNA tail moment, and DNA olive tail moment all increased with the increase in cadmium doses, but compared with those of the control group, no significant differences in low-dose group were found (P > 0.05), and the differences in middle- and high-dose groups were all highly significant (P < 0.01). The degree of DNA damage also increased with the increase of the cadmium concentrations. We conclude that cadmium significantly increases DNA damage in lung cells of immature mice in a dose-dependent manner.

Molecular mapping of resistance gene to English grain aphid (Sitobion avenae F.) in Triticum durum wheat line C273

The English grain aphid, Sitobion avenae (Fabricius), is one of the most important insect pests causing substantial yield losses in wheat production in China and other grain-growing areas in the world. The efficient utilization of wheat genes for resistance to English grain aphid (EGA) provides an efficient, economic and environmentally sound approach to reduce the yield losses. In the present study, the wheat line C273 (Triticum durum AABB, 2n = 4x = 28), is resistant to EGA in greenhouse and field tests. To identify the resistance gene, designated RA-1 temporarily, C273 was crossed with susceptible genotype Poland 305 (T. polonicum, AABB, 2n = 4x = 28). The F(1), F(2) and F(2:3) lines were tested with EGA in the field and greenhouse. The results indicated that RA-1 is a single dominant gene, closely linked to the microsatellite markers (SSR) Xwmc179, Xwmc553 and Xwmc201 on chromosome 6AL at genetic distances of 3.47, 4.73 and 7.57 cM, respectively. The three SSR markers will be valuable in marker-assisted selection for resistance to EGA as well as for cloning this gene in the future.

The dependence of extracted current on discharge gas pressure in neutral beam ion sources on HL-2A tokamak

The discharge gas pressure is a key factor to influence the extracted current of ion source. In this paper, the dependence of extracted current on discharge gas pressure was investigated in detail at different arc discharge currents. The discharge gas pressure with a very broad range (0.1 Pa-2.7 Pa) was scanned for the first time. It is turned out that, with the increasing of discharge gas pressure, the extracted current increases and the arc voltage decreases at different arc currents; however, when the discharge gas pressure exceeds a certain value, the extracted current decreases. For the same discharge gas pressure, the higher the arc current, the higher the arc voltage and the extracted current are. The arc efficiency was also calculated, and its dependence on gas pressure was almost the same with the dependence of extracted current on gas pressure, but at the same discharge gas pressure, the lower the arc current, the higher the arc efficiency is and the lower the extracted current is.

High-power polycrystalline Er:YAG ceramic laser at 1617 nm

We report on the efficient operation of a high-power erbium-doped polycrystalline Er:YAG ceramic laser at 1617 nm resonantly pumped by a high-power 1532 nm Er,Yb fiber laser. Lasing characteristics of Er:YAG ceramics with different Er3+ concentrations are evaluated and compared. With an output coupler of 15% transmission and 0.5 at. % Er3+-doped YAG ceramic as the gain media, the laser generates 14 W of output power at 1617 nm for 28.8 W of incident pump power at 1532 nm, corresponding to a slope efficiency with respect to incident pump power of 51.7%.

Fano-Rashba effect in thermoelectricity of a double quantum dot molecular junction

We examine the relation between the phase-coherent processes and spin-dependent thermoelectric effects in an Aharonov-Bohm (AB) interferometer with a Rashba quantum dot (QD) in each of its arm by using the Green's function formalism and equation of motion (EOM) technique. Due to the interplay between quantum destructive interference and Rashba spin-orbit interaction (RSOI) in each QD, an asymmetrical transmission node splits into two spin-dependent asymmetrical transmission nodes in the transmission spectrum and, as a consequence, results in the enhancement of the spin-dependent thermoelectric effects near the spin-dependent asymmetrical transmission nodes. We also examine the evolution of spin-dependent thermoelectric effects from a symmetrical parallel geometry to a configuration in series. It is found that the spin-dependent thermoelectric effects can be enhanced by controlling the dot-electrode coupling strength. The simple analytical expressions are also derived to support our numerical results.PACS numbers: 73.63.Kv; 71.70.Ej; 72.20.Pa.

A prospective study of early versus late craniectomy after traumatic brain injury

BACKGROUND

Decompressive craniectomy is an important method for managing traumatic brain injury (TBI). At present, controversies about this procedure exist, especially about the optimum operative time for patients with TBI.

METHODS

A prospective study was performed at the First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University. From January 2008 to December 2009, 25 patients who underwent early decompressive craniectomy were included in the study group, and 19 patients who underwent "late" decompressive craniectomy as a second-tier therapy for intracranial hypertension were included as a comparison group.

RESULTS

The 30-day mortality after the operation was 16% in the study group. The overall mortality rate was 20% at the 6-month follow-up. A total of 52% of the patients (13 patients) had good outcomes, and 7 patients remained in a severely disabled or vegetative state. In the comparison group, 4 patients died, and 12 had good outcomes at the 6-month follow-up. The remaining 3 patients had poor outcomes. The study group was well matched with the comparison group. However, the outcomes in the study group were not better than those in the comparison group, as evaluated by the 6-month GOS score.

CONCLUSION

Early decompressive craniectomy as a first-tier therapy for intracranial hypertension did not improve patient outcome when compared with "late" decompressive craniectomy for managing TBI.

Shunt implantation in a special sub-group of post-traumatic hydrocephalus--patients have normal intracranial pressure without clinical representations of hydrocephalus

BACKGROUND

Post-traumatic hydrocephalus (PTH) is a frequent complication secondary to traumatic brain injury (TBI) and controversy remains over whether to perform a shunt placement for patients with normal pressure hydrocephalus when the patient is too injured to display symptoms or has atypical symptoms.

METHOD

A hospital-based retrospective study was performed in patients who developed normal pressure hydrocephalus, without atypical symptoms, from January 2004 to June 2007. Information regarding patients' demographics, TBI, hydrocephalus and outcome was collected.

RESULTS

A total of 31 patients were involved in this study. At the 12-month follow-up, 20 patients (64.5%) showed clear improvement. Among the 10 patients who developed PTH after decompressive craniectomy, cranioplasty was performed after shunt implantation and clinical improvement was observed in nine patients. Additionally, in this series, the patients' age and the severity of hydrocephalus, assessed by CT imaging before shunt placement, significantly correlated with improvement.

CONCLUSION

Although the effect was not definitively established, many patients in the sub-group of PTH patients described here would benefit from shunt placement, especially when they simultaneously have large cranial defects after surgical decompression and underwent cranioplasties after shunt placement. Additionally, younger patients and those with less severe hydrocephalus before shunt placement may expect a better outcome after shunt placement.

Contralateral subdural effusion secondary to decompressive craniectomy performed in patients with severe traumatic brain injury: incidence, clinical presentations, treatment and outcome

OBJECTIVE

This study was performed to better understand postoperative contralateral subdural effusion, an uncommon but serious complication secondary to decompressive craniectomy in patients with head trauma.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Data from medical records of 169 patients who underwent decompressive craniectomy after head trauma between 2003 and 2006 were collected. The data included demographics, clinical presentations, treatment and outcome.

RESULTS

Of the 169 patients, 11 (6.5%) had contralateral subdural effusion. On the average, this complication was found 14 days after decompressive craniectomy. Of the 11 patients, conservative treatment was effective in 7 with a gradual resolution which lasted 52.7 days on average. The effusion in the remaining 4 patients led to progressive deterioration of clinical presentation, and surgical intervention was necessary: subduroperitoneal shunting in 3 cases and burr hole drainage in the remaining 1 case.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings confirmed that postoperative contralateral subdural effusion was not an uncommon complication secondary to decompressive craniectomy. Most contralateral subdural effusions resolved spontaneously after conservative management, but surgical management may be necessary if the patients develop deteriorating clinical manifestations or the subdural effusion has an apparent mass effect.

Cranioplasty for patients developing large cranial defects combined with post-traumatic hydrocephalus after head trauma

BACKGROUND

Large cranial defects combined with hydrocephalus after decompressive craniectomy are a common, harsh reality among patients with head trauma. Typically, a shunt is first used to relieve the hydrocephalus. However, subsequently the patients may develop a severe sinking scalp flap over the skull defect before cranioplasty, which would make the procedure difficult.

METHODS

This problem was overcome by temporarily adjusting the shunt pressure using a programmable ventriculoperitoneal shunt tube, which allowed expansion of the depressed scalp flap and facilitated the subsequent cranioplasty. This study describes two patients who were treated for this problem after severe head trauma.

RESULTS

When performing a titanium mesh cranioplasty after a shunt, this new method facilitated the separation of the scalp from the underlying muscle or dura and obliterated the dead space between the titanium mesh and the underlying tissue. Both patients had satisfactory outcomes without complications.

CONCLUSIONS

This method is easy and safe and it facilitates the cranioplasty, reducing the potential complications, including intracranial haematoma, effusions and infection, and thereby improving the patient outcome.

[Seasonal dynamics of phosphorus forms in water body and sediments of Nanhu Lake, Wuhan]

Water samples and sediment cores were taken at 5 sites of Nanhu Lake, Wuhan to investigate the seasonal dynamics of phosphorus in water body, sediments and their interstitial water, as well as the phosphorus forms in sediments. The results showed that the average concentrations of total phosphorus (TP) and orthophosphate (PO4(3-) -P) in water body were 0.240 and 0.033 mg x L(-1), respectively, with the highest concentrations of TP and PO4(3-)-P in November and the lowest concentration of TP and of PO4(3-) -P in February and August, respectively. The concentration of TP in sediments was averagely 1.005 mg x g(-1), being increased from April to November and becoming stable from November to February, and decreased with sedimentation depth. The concentration of PO4(3-) -P in interstitial water was 0.209 mg x L(-1) on average, being the highest in November and the lowest in February, with the same vertical distribution pattern like TP in sediments. The dominant form of phosphorus in sediments was inorganic phosphorus (IP), occupying 61.4%-77.1% of total extracted phosphorus. The concentration of bio-available phosphorus (BA-P) in sediments was very high, but decreased significantly with sedimentation depth. According to the significant correlations between phosphorus forms in sediments and PO4(3-) -P in interstitial water, the BA-P and auto-calcium bound phosphorus (ACa-P) in sediments should be the main P sources released from sediments to water body.

In vivo tumor detection on rabbit with biopsy needle as MRE driver

Magnetic Resonance Elastography (MRE) is a phase contrast imaging technique to quantitatively measure the elasticity of tissues. Typically, the oscillating driver is placed on the surface of objects to generate shear waves. When it is applied to detect tumors in deep location, the depth penetration of the wave is limited by attenuation and the biopsy procedure has to be performed separately. In this study, we describe a method using biopsy needle as the MRE driver to produce shear waves in tissues. We made comparison between the MRE acquisitions obtained with biopsy needle and surface drivers. Because the well-defined propagation wave pattern reduces the error in wavelength calculation, the acquisitions of biopsy needle driver shows better homogeneity in stiffness map. We also performed the experiment with the biopsy needle for in vivo tumor detection in rabbits. This study demonstrates that the biopsy needle driver is more effective than the surface driver for accurately measuring the stiffness and location of the tumor.

Biopsy needle as MRE driver for tumor detection

Magnetic Resonance Elastography (MRE) is a phase contrast imaging technique to quantitatively measure the elasticity of tissues. Typically, an oscillating driver is placed on the surface to generate the shear waves. The depth penetration of the wave is limited by attenuation and the biopsy procedure has to be done separately. In this study, we use a biopsy needle as the driver to detect the 15% porcine gel inclusion in a 10% porcine gel phantom which simulates a tumor in tissues. We also perform the experiment with the biopsy needle for in-vivo tumor detection in rabbits. It is shown that the biopsy needle driver can accurately measure the stiffness and location of the tumor.

A novel unconventional antigen MPD5 elicits anti-tumor humoral immune responses in a subset of patients with polycythemia vera

In an effort to define the antigenic mechanism that contributes to beneficial therapeutic outcome in patients with polycythemia vera (PV), we screened a human testis cDNA library with serological cloning derived from sera of three PV patients who had undergone therapeutic-induced remission. As a result, we identified a novel antigen, MPD5, which belongs to the group of cryptic antigens with unconventional genomic intron/exon structure. Moreover, MPD5 elicited IgG antibody responses in a subset of PV patients who had benefited from a variety of therapies--including IFN-alpha, Hydroxyurea, Imatinib mesylate, Anagrelide, and phlebotomy--but not in untreated PV patients or healthy donors, suggesting that MPD5 is a PV-associated, therapy-related antigen. In the granulocytes of PV patients who are responsive to therapy, upregulated MPD5 expression may serve to enhance immune responses. These findings provide new insight into the mechanism underlying regulation of the self-antigen repertoire that elicits anti-tumor immune responses in patients with myeloproliferative diseases, indicating the potential of these self-antigens as targets of novel immunotherapy.

Both endogenous and exogenous ACh plays antinociceptive role in the hippocampus CA1 of rats

The present study examines the effect of acetylcholine (ACh), muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs) agonist pilocarpine and mAChRs antagonist atropine on the pain-evoked response of pain-excited neurons (PEN) and pain-inhibited neurons (PIN) in the hippocampal CA1 of rats. The trains of electric impulses applied to the sciatic nerve were used as noxious stimulation. The discharges of PEN and PIN in the hippocampal CA1 were recorded by glass microelectrode. The results showed that intrahippocampal microinjection of ACh (2 microg/1 microl) or pilocarpine (2 microg/1 microl) decreased the frequency of discharge of PEN, and increased the frequency of discharge of PIN evoked by the noxious stimulation in the hippocampal CA1, while intrahippocampal administration of atropine (0.5 microg/1 microl) produced opposite response. On the basis of the above findings, we can deduce that ACh and mAChRs are involved in the modulation of nociceptive information transmission in the hippocampal CA1.

Processing sites are different in the generation of HLA-A2.1-restricted, T cell reactive tumor antigen epitopes and viral epitopes

In order to improve the processing efficiency of T cell tumor antigen epitopes, this bioinformatic study compares proteolytic sites in the generation of 47 experimentally identified HLA-A2.1-restricted immunodominant tumor antigen epitopes to those of 52 documented HLA-A2.1-restricted immunodominant viral antigen epitopes. Our results show that the amino acid frequencies in the C-terminal cleavage sites of the tumor antigen epitopes, as well as several positions within the 10 amino acid (aa) flanking regions, are significantly different from those of the viral antigen epitopes. In the 9 amino acid epitope region, frequencies differed somewhat in the secondary-anchored amino acid residues on E3 (the third aa of the epitope), E4, E6, E7 and E8; however, frequencies in the primary-anchored positions, on E2 and E9, for binding in the HLA-A2.1 groove, remained almost identical. The most frequently occurring amino acid pairs in both N-terminal and C-terminal cleavage sites in the generation of tumor antigen epitopes were different from those of the viral antigen epitopes. Our findings demonstrate for the first time that these two groups of epitopes may be cleaved by distinct sets of proteasomes and peptidases or similar enzymes with lower efficiencies for tumor epitopes. In the future, in order to more effectively generate tumor antigen epitopes, targeted activation of the immunoproteasomes and peptidases that mediate the cleavage of viral epitopes could be achieved, thus enhancing our potential for antigen-specific tumor immunotherapy.

Effects of selective brain cooling in patients with severe traumatic brain injury: a preliminary study

We prospectively investigated non-invasive selective brain cooling (SBC) in patients with severe traumatic brain injury. Sixty-six in-patients were randomized into three groups. In one group, brain temperature was maintained at 33 - 35 degrees C by cooling the head and neck (SBC); in a second group, mild systemic hypothermia (MSH; rectal temperature 33 - 35 degrees C) was produced with a cooling blanket; and a control group was not exposed to hypothermia. Natural rewarming began after 3 days. Mean intracranial pressure 24, 48 or 72 h after injury was significantly lower in the SBC group than in the control group. Mean serum superoxide dismutase levels on Days 3 and 7 after injury in the SBC and MSH groups were significantly higher than in the control group. The percentage of patients with a good neurological outcome 2 years after injury was 72.7%, 57.1% and 34.8% in the SBC, MSH and control groups, respectively. Complications were managed without severe sequelae. Non-invasive SBC was safe and effective.

Enlargement of post-traumatic intracerebral haematoma: incidence and time course

We retrospectively assessed the incidence and time course of enlargement in post-traumatic intracerebral haematoma (PTICH). Computed tomography (CT) scans from 165 patients who underwent a scan within 72 h and a repeat scan within 120 h of the onset of trauma were examined. A semi-automated method using region deformation-based segmentation was used to calculate the haematoma volume. The presence of haematoma enlargement was also determined based on a consensus by five observers. Seventy cases (42%) showed enlargement of the haematoma. The frequency of haematoma enlargement decreased as the interval between the onset of trauma and the initial scan increased. The discriminant value of the ratio of the haematoma volume in the second scan to that in the initial scan was ascertained, and the cut-off value for haematoma enlargement was determined to be 1.45. The radiographic criterion for enlargement in PTICH on CT scan was, therefore, defined as a > or = 1.45 times increase in haematoma volume.

Biological monitoring of kidney function among workers occupationally exposed to trichloroethylene

AIMS

To investigate the nephrotoxic potential of trichloroethylene in a currently exposed population using sensitive urinary markers of kidney toxicity.

METHODS

Renal dysfunction was monitored in a cross-sectional study of 70 workers currently exposed to trichloroethylene. An age and sex matched control population of 54 individuals was drawn from hospital and administrative staff.

RESULTS

The mean exposure to trichloroethylene, estimated from urinary trichloroacetic acid concentrations, was 32 ppm (range 0.5-252 ppm) with an average duration of exposure of 4.1 years (range 1-20 years). Significant differences between the exposed and control populations were found for nephrotoxicity markers N-acetylglucosaminidase (NAG) and albumin, and for the mode of action marker, formic acid. However, neither NAG nor albumin showed a significant correlation with either the magnitude or duration of exposure to trichloroethylene. There was a significant correlation between urinary formic acid and trichloroacetic acid concentrations. Within the exposed population there were dose dependent increases in urinary methylmalonic acid concentrations and urinary glutathione S-transferase alpha activity. Although still within the control range, these changes were clearly dose dependent and consistent with one of the proposed mechanisms of trichloroethylene induced kidney toxicity.

CONCLUSION

Although there was no evidence of kidney toxicity within the population studied, the results suggest that kidney damage could occur at exposure concentrations higher (>250 ppm) than those encountered in this study.

Measurements of the cross section for e(+)e(-) --> hadrons at center-of-mass energies from 2 to 5 GeV

We report values of R = sigma(e(+)e(-)-->hadrons)/sigma(e(+)e(-)-->mu(+)mu(-)) for 85 center-of-mass energies between 2 and 5 GeV measured with the upgraded Beijing Spectrometer at the Beijing Electron-Positron Collider.

Single rotational product propensity in the photodissociation of HOD

Photodissociation of HOD from the B state has been studied using the high resolution rydberg "tagging" time-of-flight (TOF) technique. The TOF spectra show an unusually strong population (approximately 50%) for a single rotational state for the OD (A(2)Sigma, upsilon = 0) fragments. Through theoretical studies, this phenomenon, which we have labeled the "single rotational product propensity," is attributed to a dynamically constrained threshold effect in the photodissociation of the HOD molecule on the B state.

Effects of cadmium on rat sperm motility evaluated with computer assisted sperm analysis

OBJECTIVE

To study effects of cadmium on rat sperm motility evaluated with computer assisted sperm analysis.

METHODS

Different doses of cadmium chloride (0.2, 0.4, 0.8 mg Cd/kg BW) were administrated i.p. to adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. Control animals received the same volume of 0.9% NaCl solution. After 7 days, the rats were sacrificed with their testes removed. A part of one testis was used for testicular sperm head counts and daily sperm production observation. The motility of spermatozoa obtained from cauda epididymides using the "diffusion" method was measured by computer assisted sperm analysis (CASA).

RESULTS

The sperm head counts and daily sperm production decreased significantly in the high dose group. The motility of spermatozoa in the middle dose group was reduced significantly. No motile sperm was found in the high dose group. The results suggest that germinal epithelium was impaired irreversibly in a short time to produce toxic effects on spermatogenesis at high cadmium doses.

CONCLUSION

Cadmium may reduce sperm motility at a dose far below the dose affecting sperm production at this time point. The motility of sperm is an early and sensitive endpoint for the assessment of cadmium toxicity on male reproduction.

Investigation of the anthracene-nitroxide hybrid molecule as a probe for hydroxyl radicals

A new method for the determination of hydroxyl radicals is proposed. The method is based on the use of a hybrid molecule consisting of a fluorescent chromophore, anthracene, and a nitroxide radical. In the hybrid molecule, the nitroxide quenches the fluorescence of anthracene strongly. The reaction of hydroxyl radicals with dimethyl sulfoxide generates quantitatively methyl radicals, which then combine with the nitroxide moiety of the hybrid molecules to result in an increase in the fluorescence intensity. The fluorescence increase is proportional to the concentration of hydroxyl radicals. The proposed method is capable of detecting hydroxyl radicals generated in the Fenton system. It is a simple and sensitive technique for the determination of hydroxyl radicals.

CML66, a broadly immunogenic tumor antigen, elicits a humoral immune response associated with remission of chronic myelogenous leukemia

This report describes a tumor-associated antigen, termed CML66, initially cloned from a chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) cDNA expression library. CML66 encodes a 583-aa protein with a molecular mass of 66 kDa and no significant homology to other known genes. CML66 gene is localized to human chromosome 8q23, but the function of this gene is unknown. CML66 is expressed in leukemias and a variety of solid tumor cell lines. When examined by Northern blot, expression in normal tissues was restricted to testis and heart, and no expression was found in hematopoietic tissues. When examined by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR, expression in CML cells was 1.5-fold higher than in normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The presence of CML66-specific antibody in patient serum was confirmed by Western blot and the development of high titer IgG antibody specific for CML66 correlated with immune induced remission of CML in a patient who received infusion of normal donor lymphocytes for treatment of relapse. CML66 antibody also was found in sera from 18-38% of patients with lung cancer, melanoma, and prostate cancer. These findings suggest that CML66 may be immunogenic in a wide variety of malignancies and may be a target for antigen-specific immunotherapy.

Focal cooling rapidly terminates experimental neocortical seizures

The efficacy of surgical resection for epilepsy is considerably lower for neocortical epilepsy than for temporal lobe epilepsy. We have explored focal cooling with a thermoelectric (Peltier) device as a potential therapy for neocortical epilepsy. After creating a cranial window in anesthetized rats, we induced seizures by injecting artificial cerebrospinal fluid containing 4-aminopyridine (4-AP), a potassium channel blocker. Within 30 minutes of 4-AP injection, animals developed recurrent seizures (duration 85.7 +/- 26.2 seconds; n = 10 rats) that persisted for 2 hours. When a small Peltier device cooled the exposed cortical surface to 20-25 degrees C at seizure onset, the seizure duration was reduced to 8.4 +/- 5.0 seconds (n = 10 rats; p < 0.001). When the Peltier device was placed close to the cortical surface, but not allowed to make physical contact, there was no effect on seizure duration (104.3 +/- 20.7 seconds; p > 0.05 compared to control). Interestingly, the duration of uncooled seizures was reduced after we allowed the cortex to rewarm from prior cooling. Histological examination of the cortex after cooling has shown no evidence of acute or delayed neuronal injury, and blood pressure and temperature remained stable. It may be possible to use Peltier devices for cortical mapping or, when seizure detection algorithms improve, for chronic seizure control.

Fe(II)-EDTA chelate-induced aromatic hydroxylation of terephthalate as a new method for the evaluation of hydroxyl radical-scavenging ability

The investigation of Fe(II)-EDTA chelate-induced aromatic hydroxylation of terephthalate in pH 7.4 phosphate buffer solution and a new method for the evaluation of hydroxyl radical-scavenging ability are reported. The method is based on attack of the hydroxyl radical on the terephthalate to produce highly fluorescent 2-hydroxyterephthalate, which is detected fluorimetrically. The formation of hydroxyl radical is believed to be the result of the reduction of molecular oxygen by Fe(II)-EDTA to form superoxide radical, which in turn dismutates to hydrogen peroxide, and then Fe(II)-EDTA catalyzes the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide to produce hydroxyl radical. The mechanism of the generation of hydroxyl radical in the proposed system was confirmed. This study established a simple and inexpensive method for the evaluation of the scavenging ability of some compounds on hydroxyl radicals.

Adenoma of the posterior urethra: 131 case report

AIM

A case-report on adenoma of the posterior urethra.

METHODS

In 131 cases of adenoma of the posterior urethra, aged 17-79 (mean: 36.4) years, a detailed medical history was taken and urinalysis, urethroscopy, and prostatic specific antigen (PSA) immunohistochemical staining were performed. They were then treated with transurethral resection (TUR) or transurethral electric coagulation (TUEC).

RESULTS

Hemospermia occurred in 51% of the cases, hematuria in 38%, blood overflow from the urethral orifice in 6%, and dysuria in 5%. The position of the tumor was at or around the verumontanum. The appearance of the tumor was similar to those of a papilla, a villus, a dactyl or polyp, or simply an engorgement. The tumor contained glandular alveoli and adeno-epithelial cells. PSA immunohistochemistry was positive in the cytoplasm and nucleus of the adeno-epithelial cell. One hundred and tweenty-nine cases were cured after TUR or TUEC, while 2 patients recurred and were operated again.

CONCLUSION

Adenoma of the posterior urethra is a common cause of hemospermia and hematuria in young men. Urethroscopic examination and biopsy are the principal diagnostic measures. TUR or TUEC are believed to be the treatment of choice with a short-term recurrence rate of around 1. 5%.

Diastereoselective synthesis of polysubstituted tetrahydropyrans and thiacyclohexanes via indium trichloride mediated cyclizations

Polysubstituted tetrahydropyrans and thiacyclohexanes were synthesized in high yields with excellent diastereoselectivities via indium trichloride mediated cyclizations between homoallyl alcohols and mercaptans with aldehydes. In the case of tetrahydropyran products, the stereochemistry of the product was found to be directly correlated with the geometry of the homoallyl alcohols; whereas the cross-cyclization of aldehydes with trans-homoallyl alcohols generated (up-down-up) 2,3,4-trisubstituted tetrahydropyran products exclusively, the reaction of aldehydes with cis-homoallyl alcohols provided mainly (up-up-up) 2,3,4-trisubstituted products. When a trisubstituted homoallyl alcohol was used, its cross-cyclization with aldehydes generated (up-down-up-down-up) pentasubstituted tetrahydropyran derivatives with simultaneous controlling of five stereogenic centers. On the other hand, a cyclization-decyclization equilibrium was observed in the formation of thiacyclohexanes. The reaction of both cis- and trans-homoallyl mercaptans with aldehydes provided the same major diastereomers.

[Studies on the metabolism of gentiopicroside by rat intestinal flora]

OBJECTIVE

To study the metabolism of gentiopicroside by rat intestinal flora in vitro and time profiles of gentiopicroside and its metabolites in rat serum after oral administration of gentiopicroside.

METHOD

Using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for determination of gentiopicroside, gentianine and gentianal content of rat intestinal flora culture medium in vitro and rat serum sample in vivo.

RESULT

Gentiopicroside was metabolized quickly in vitro by rat intestinal flora, consequently gentianine and gentianal content appeared. Gentianine and gentianal were observed after gentiopicroside oral administration 4 times in rat serum sample, and gentiopicroside content decreased after oral administration 6 times.

CONCLUSION

Gentianine and gentianal were the important bioactive metabolites of gentiopicroside in rats.

Detection of a potent humoral response associated with immune-induced remission of chronic myelogenous leukemia

The effectiveness of donor-lymphocyte infusion (DLI) for treatment of relapsed chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation is a clear demonstration of the graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effect. T cells are critical mediators of GVL, but the antigenic targets of this response are unknown. To determine whether patients who respond to DLI also develop B-cell immunity to CML-associated antigens, we analyzed sera from three patients with relapsed CML who achieved a complete molecular remission after infusion of donor T cells. Sera from these individuals recognized 13 distinct gene products represented in a CML-derived cDNA library. Two proteins, Jkappa-recombination signal-binding protein (RBP-Jkappa) and related adhesion focal tyrosine kinase (RAFTK), were recognized by sera from three of 19 DLI responders. None of these antigens were recognized by sera from healthy donors or patients with chronic graft-versus-host disease. Four gene products were recognized by sera from CML patients treated with hydroxyurea and nine were detected by sera from CML patients who responded to IFN-alpha. Antibody titers specific for RAFTK, but not for RBP-Jkappa, were found to be temporally associated with the response to DLI. These results demonstrate that patients who respond to DLI generate potent antibody responses to CML-associated antigens, suggesting the development of coordinated T- and B-cell immunity. The characterization of B cell-defined antigens may help identify clinically relevant targets of the GVL response in vivo.

Karyotypic analysis of intersexuality in Chinese from Taiyuan

AIM

To analyze the kayrotypic patterns of 33 cases of intersexuality in Chinese from Taiyuan, China in order to further clarify its mechanism of development and the interrelationship between karyotype and phenotypic sex.

METHODS

High-resolution GTG-banding chromosome technique was used to analyze the karyotype patterns.

RESULTS

In these patients, 57.58% were male pseudohermaphrodites (46,XY), 18.18%, female pseudohermaphrodites (46, XX), 12.12%, true hemaphrodites, and 12.12%, other karyotypes. Although testes can be seen in 88.8% of karyotypes with Y chromosome, 73.68% of the patients were of female social sex. In 42.82% of patients the social sex is in conformity with their karyotypes. There were 2 cases of male pseudohermaphrodites, where the sex chromosome was normal, but abnormalities were found in chromosomes 9, 13, or 14.

CONCLUSION

Sex chromosomes determine the direction of gonadal and sex differentiation, while the development of the normal gonad and external genitalia should have the participation of many autosomal chromosomes as well.

P-glycoprotein expression in squamous cell carcinoma of the oral and maxillofacial region

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the mechanism of drug resistance in oral and maxillofacial carcinoma to chemotherapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty cases of squamous carcinoma in the oral and maxillofacial region were examined for the multidrug resistance gene product P-glycoprotein using a monoclonal antibody, MRK16.

RESULT

P-glycoprotein was detected in 62.5% of all samples. P-glycoprotein expression was related to the chemotherapy and the differentiation of carcinoma. P-glycoprotein expression was higher in the post-chemotherapy group than in the non-chemotherapy group (P < 0.05). Well-differentiated tumors expressed P-glycoprotein more frequently (P < 0.05). P-glycoprotein expression was compared with clinical response to chemotherapy. The accuracy rate of prediction was 75%.

CONCLUSION

P-glycoprotein plays an important role in mechanism of drug resistance of squamous cell carcinoma in the oral and maxillofacial region.

Changes in tissue metals after cadmium intoxication and intervention with chlorpromazine in male rats

Cadmium (Cd), one of the most dangerous heavy metals, has a very similar ionic radius to calcium (Ca). The interference of cadmium in calcium homeostasis may play an important role in cadmium toxicity. Recent reports indicate that calmodulin (CaM) inhibitors such as trifluoperazine and chlorpromazine (CPZ) could protect rodents against cadmium toxicity. It was also reported that pretreatment of mice with zinc (Zn) could reduce the adverse effects induced by cadmium. The aim of this study is to determine whether Cd changes the balance of other essential metals such as Zn and copper (Cu) in rat tissues, and whether CPZ can reverse these changes which are induced by cadmium intoxication. Adult male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) with cadmium chloride (CdCl2) (0.2, 0.4, 0.8 mg Cd/kg body weight) alone and 0.4 mg Cd/kg in association with CPZ (5 mg/kg) daily for a week. The control animals were injected with normal saline only. The results showed that the cadmium content in the liver, kidney and testis increased significantly with a dose-response relationship. Cadmium treatment markedly increased the Zn and Ca content in some of the tissues. Hepatic and renal metallothionein (MT) increased significantly after cadmium intoxication. CPZ treatment, however, reduced cadmium content in liver, but not blood and kidney. CPZ seemed to decrease the content of MT in liver and significantly increase the amounts of MT in kidney. These data suggest that the intervention of cadmium with tissue essential metals may play a role in cadmium toxicity in rats, and calmodulin inhibitors to some extent can reduce the adverse effect of cadmium by decreasing the cadmium load in tissues and reversing the unbalance of essential metals.