51
|
Li YS, Zhu NH, Niu PP, Shi FX, Hughes CL, Tian GX, Huang RH. Effects of Dietary Chromium Methionine on Growth Performance, Carcass Composition, Meat Colour and Expression of the Colour-related Gene Myoglobin of Growing-finishing Pigs. ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2014; 26:1021-9. [PMID: 25049881 PMCID: PMC4093490 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.2013.13012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2013] [Revised: 03/27/2013] [Accepted: 03/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the effect of dietary chromium (Cr) as Cr methionine (CrMet) on growth performance, carcass traits, pork quality, meat colour and expression of meat colour-related genes in growing-finishing pigs, 189 crossbred Duroc×(Landrace×Yorkshire) growing-finishing pigs (male, castrated, average initial BW 74.58±1.52 kg) were selected and randomly allocated into four groups. Dietary treatments per kg of feed were as follows: 0 (CT), 0.3 mg/kg (T1), 0.6 mg/kg (T2) and 0.9 mg/kg (T3) Cr (in the form of CrMet; as-fed basis), and each treatment was replicated five times with 8 to 10 pigs per replicate pen. During the 28 d of the experiment, both the ADG and the ADFI increased linearly (p<0.05) as the level of dietary Cr increased. The F/G ratio decreased linearly (p<0.05). As dietary Cr increased, loin muscle areas (linear, p = 0.013) and average backfat thickness (linear, p = 0.072) decreased. Shear force (linear, p = 0.070) and Commission Internationale de I’Éclairage (CIE) redness (quadratic, p = 0.028) were increased. In addition, CIE Lightness (quadratic, p = 0.053) were decreased as dietary Cr increased. As dietary Cr increased, total myglobin (Mb) content (quadratic, p = 0.015) and the mb mRNA levels (quadratic, p = 0.046) in longissimus muscles of pigs were up-regulated. In conclusion, supplementation of dietary Cr improved growth and meat colour, but increased shear force and decreased IMF reduced palatability of longissimus muscles. Moreover, the increasing total Mb content and mb mRNA levels indicated that CrMet dietary supplementation may improve meat colour via up-regulating expression of the mb gene.
Collapse
|
52
|
Li YQ, Liu ZP, Yang K, Li YS, Zhao B, Fan ZF, Wan P. First Report of Bean common mosaic virus Infecting Azuki Bean (Vigna angularis) in China. PLANT DISEASE 2014; 98:1017. [PMID: 30708882 DOI: 10.1094/pdis-01-14-0064-pdn] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Azuki bean (Vigna angularis Ohwi & Ohashi) is one of the traditional grain legumes in China. From 2010 to 2013, mosaic and crumpling symptoms on leaves and stunting, all typical symptoms of a viral disease, were observed on cultivars CWA030, CWA221, and JCA002 of azuki bean with incidence rates of 30 to 100% and yield losses of 50 to 95% in the three fields of Changping district, Beijing. To identify the possible viral pathogen(s), 21 symptomatic leaf samples from different cultivars were collected and total RNA was extracted from the samples and subjected to RT-PCR testing with degenerate primers targeting portions of the coding regions of Cucumovirus capsid protein (CP) (1) and Potyvirus NIb (2); these viruses had been reported in azuki bean. Fragments of 940 bp and 350 bp corresponding to Cucumovirus CP and Potyvirus NIb, respectively, were amplified from all the samples collected. Sequencing of the PCR products from nine samples, followed by BLAST analysis, confirmed the presence of Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) and Bean common mosaic virus (BCMV). All the samples tested were also positive with direct antigen coating (DAC)-ELISA using specific antiserum to CMV or BCMV (Agdia, Elkhart, IN). The CMV CP gene (GenBank Accession No. KJ467817) shared 99% sequence identity with a China CMV isolate (DQ873558). To further characterize the BCMV strain found, fragments of 3,388 bp spanning BCMV NIa, NIb, CP and 3'UTR regions were amplified with another primer set, BCMV-F (5'-AGCAAGTCAATTTACAAGGGACTTC-3') and BCMV-R (5'-GGAACAACAAACATTGCCGTAGCTAC-3') from three samples, and three independent clones from each sample were sequenced. Sequence analysis revealed that this segment (KJ467816) shared 98% identity with the BCMV azuki bean strain (U60100). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of BCMV, together with CMV, naturally infecting azuki bean in China. Further attention should be paid to this emerging viral disease and measures should be taken to control the spread of BCMV. References: (1) S. K. Choi et al. J. Virol. Methods 83:1345, 1999. (2) L. Zheng et al. Plant Pathol. 59:1345, 2010.
Collapse
|
53
|
Li YS, Zhou Y, Meng XY, Zhang YY, Liu JQ, Zhang Y, Wang NN, Hu P, Lu SY, Ren HL, Liu ZS. Enzyme-antibody dual labeled gold nanoparticles probe for ultrasensitive detection of κ-casein in bovine milk samples. Biosens Bioelectron 2014; 61:241-4. [PMID: 24892786 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2014.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2014] [Accepted: 05/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A dual labeled probe was synthesized by coating gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with anti-κ-CN monoclonal antibody (McAb) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) enzyme on their surface. The McAb was used as detector and HRP was used as label for signal amplification catalytically oxidize the substrate. AuNPs were used as bridges between the McAb and HRP. Based on the probe, an immunoassay was developed for ultrasensitive detection of κ-CN in bovine milk samples. The assay has a linear response range within 4.2-560 ng mL(-1). The limit of detection (LOD) was 4.2 ng mL(-1) which was 10 times lower than that of traditional McAb-HRP based ELISA. The recoveries of κ-CN from three brand bovine milk samples were from 95.8% to 111.0% that had a good correlation (R(2)=0.998) with those obtained by official standard Kjeldahl method. For higher sensitivity and as simple as the traditional ELISA, the developed immunoassay could provide an alternative approach for ultrasensitive detection of κ-CN in bovine milk sample.
Collapse
|
54
|
Song F, Zhou Y, Li YS, Meng XM, Meng XY, Liu JQ, Lu SY, Ren HL, Hu P, Liu ZS, Zhang YY, Zhang JH. A rapid immunomagnetic beads-based immunoassay for the detection of β-casein in bovine milk. Food Chem 2014; 158:445-8. [PMID: 24731368 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2014.02.150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2012] [Revised: 09/22/2013] [Accepted: 02/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
An immunomagnetic beads-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (IMBs-ELISA) was developed for the detection of β-casein in bovine milk. Immunomagnetic beads (IMBs) were employed as the solid phase. The anti-β-casein monoclonal antibody (McAb) bound to IMBs was used as capture probe and an anti-β-casein polyclonal antibody (PcAb), labelled with horseradish peroxidase (HRP), was employed as detector probe. Three reaction and two washing steps were needed. Each reaction needed 10 min or less, which significantly shortened detection compared with classic sandwich ELISA. β-Casein in bovine milk was detected across a linear range (2-128 μg mL(-1)). Application results were in accordance with the Kjejdahl method, which suggests the IMBs-ELISA is rapid and reliable for the detection of β-casein in bovine milk.
Collapse
|
55
|
Wang JD, Lo SF, Li YS, Chen PJ, Lin SY, Ho TY, Lin JH, Chen LJ. Ectopic expression of OsMADS45 activates the upstream genes Hd3a and RFT1 at an early development stage causing early flowering in rice. BOTANICAL STUDIES 2013; 54:12. [PMID: 28510861 PMCID: PMC5432754 DOI: 10.1186/1999-3110-54-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2012] [Accepted: 03/20/2013] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rice gene, OsMADS45, which belongs to the MADS-box E class gene, participates in the regulation of floral development. Previous studies have revealed that ectopic expression of OsMADS45 induces early flowering and influences reduced plant height under short-day (SD) conditions. However, the regulation mechanism of OsMADS45 overexpression remains unknown. We introduce an OsMADS45 overexpression construct Ubi:OsMADS45 into TNG67 plants (an Hd1 (Heading date 1) and Ehd1 (Early heading date 1) defective rice cultivar grown in Taiwan), and we analyzed the expression patterns of various floral regulators to understand the regulation pathways affected by OsMADS45 expression. RESULTS The transgenic rice exhibit a heading date approximately 40 days earlier than that observed in TNG67 plants, and transgenic rice display small plant size and low grain yield. OsMADS45 overexpression did not alter the oscillating rhythm of the examined floral regulatory genes but advanced (by approximately 20 days) the up-regulate of two florigens, Hd3a (Heading Date 3a) and RFT1 (RICE FLOWERING LOCUS T1) and suppressed the expression of Hd1 at the juvenile stage. The expression levels of OsMADS14 and OsMADS18, which are two well-known reproductive phase transition markers, were also increased at early developmental stages and are believed to be the major regulators responsible for early flowering in OsMADS45-overexpressing transgenic rice. OsMADS45 overexpression did not influence other floral regulator genes upstream of Hd1 and Ehd1, such as OsGI (OsGIGANTEA), Ehd2/Osld1/RID1 and OsMADS50. CONCLUSION These results indicate that in transgenic rice, OsMADS45 overexpressing ectopically activates the upstream genes Hd3a and RFT1 at early development stage and up-regulates the expression of OsMADS14 and OsMADS18, which induces early flowering.
Collapse
|
56
|
Li YS, Piao YG, Nagaoka K, Watanabe G, Taya K, Li CM. Preventive effect of tert-butylhydroquinone on scrotal heat-induced damage in mouse testes. GENETICS AND MOLECULAR RESEARCH 2013; 12:5433-41. [PMID: 24301916 DOI: 10.4238/2013.november.11.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the effect of tert-butylhydroquinone (tBHQ) on scrotal heat-induced damage in mice testes, 8-week-old mice were divided into 6 groups and administered with or without tBHQ through diet (10 mg/g), intraperitoneal injection (100 mg/kg body weight), or intratestis injection (12.5 mg/kg body weight), respectively. After single scrotal heat exposure (42 °C for 25 min), trunk blood and testes were collected 48 h later. The testes from diet and intraperitoneal tBHQ-treated mice showed more compact interstitial cells and less germ cell loss in the seminiferous epithelium compared with their corresponding non-tBHQ groups. However, intratestis tBHQ treatment showed no marked difference relative to the non-treatment group. In addition, pre-treatment of tBHQ caused lower testosterone concentrations and reduced expression of cytochrome P450 17α-hydroxylase/17,20-lyase (CYP 17) compared to the corresponding non-tBHQ groups. The results indicated that scrotal heat-induced structural damage was partly prevented by pre-treatment of tBHQ, which could be used as an effective antioxidant for preventing scrotal heat-mediated male infertility.
Collapse
|
57
|
Zhou Y, Li YS, Meng XY, Zhang YY, Yang L, Li ZH, Zhang JH, Wang XR, Liu JQ, Lu SY, Ren HL, Hu P, Liu ZS. Production of a monoclonal antibody and development of an immunoassay for detection of Cr(III) in water samples. CHEMOSPHERE 2013; 93:2467-2472. [PMID: 24103439 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2013.08.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2013] [Revised: 08/26/2013] [Accepted: 08/30/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
In this study we report the production of a monoclonal antibody (Mab) specific for Cr(III)-chelate and the development of a competitive immunoassay for detection of Cr(III) in water samples. In the assay, the complete antigen (Cr(III)-ITCBE-BSA) was used as coating antigen, and Cr(III)-ITCBE as competitor competes with coating antigen to bind with Mab. Using this approach, the spiked water samples with Cr(III) were detected. The linear range of the detection was 0.7-12.4 ng mL(-1). The limit of the detection (LOD) was 0.51 ng mL(-1). The spiked results were also confirmed by ICP-MS, which showed a good correlation (R(2)=0.997) between the two methods. The results indicated that the developed assay was reliable and suitable for the detection of Cr(III) in water samples.
Collapse
|
58
|
Li XJ, He LL, Li YS, Yang Q, Hirose A. Direct coating adherent diamond films on Fe-based alloy substrate: the roles of Al, Cr in enhancing interfacial adhesion and promoting diamond growth. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2013; 5:7370-7378. [PMID: 23829602 DOI: 10.1021/am401709j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Direct CVD deposition of dense, continuous, and adherent diamond films on conventional Fe-based alloys has long been considered impossible. The current study demonstrates that such a deposition can be realized on Al, Cr-modified Fe-based alloy substrate (FeAl or FeCrAl). To clarify the fundamental mechanism of Al, Cr in promoting diamond growth and enhancing interfacial adhesion, fine structure and chemical analysis around the diamond film-substrate interface have been comprehensively characterized by transmission electron microscopy. An intermediate graphite layer forms on those Al-free substrates such as pure Fe and FeCr, which significantly deteriorates the interfacial adhesion of diamond. In contrast, such a graphite layer is absent on the FeAl and FeCrAl substrates, whereas a very thin Al-rich amorphous oxide sublayer is always identified between the diamond film and substrate interface. These comparative results indicate that the Al-rich interfacial oxide layer acts as an effective barrier to prevent the formation of graphite phase and consequently enhance diamond growth and adhesion. The adhesion of diamond film formed on FeCrAl is especially superior to that formed on FeAl substrate. This can be further attributed to a synergetic effect including the reduced fraction of Al and the decreased substrate thermal-expansion coefficient on FeCrAl in comparison with FeAl, and a mechanical interlocking effect due to the formation of interfacial chromium carbides. Accordingly, a mechanism model is proposed to account for the different interfacial adhesion of diamond grown on the various Fe-based substrates.
Collapse
|
59
|
Ling YH, Ding JP, Zhang XD, Wang LJ, Zhang YH, Li YS, Zhang ZJ, Zhang XR. Characterization of microRNAs from goat (Capra hircus) by Solexa deep-sequencing technology. GENETICS AND MOLECULAR RESEARCH 2013; 12:1951-61. [PMID: 23913378 DOI: 10.4238/2013.june.13.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are an important class of small noncoding RNAs that are highly conserved in plants and animals. Many miRNAs are known to mediate a myriad of cell processes, including proliferation and differentiation, via the regulation of some transcription and signaling factors, which are closely related to muscle development and disease. In this study, small RNA cDNA libraries of Boer goats were constructed. In addition, we obtained the goat muscle miRNAs by using Solexa deep-sequencing technology and analyzed these miRNA characteristics by combining it with the bioinformatics technology. Based on Solexa sequencing and bioinformatics analysis, 562 species-conserved and 5 goat genome-specific miRNAs were identified, 322 of which exceeded 100 in the expression levels. The results of real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction from 8 randomly selected miRNAs showed that the 8 miRNAs were expressed in goat muscle, and the expression patterns were consistent with the Solexa sequencing results. The identification and characterization of miRNAs in goat muscle provide important information on the role of miRNA regulation in muscle growth and development. These data will help to facilitate studies on the regulatory roles played by miRNAs during goat growth and development.
Collapse
|
60
|
Li JF, Zhan JM, Li YS, Wai OWH. CO2 absorption/emission and aerodynamic effects of trees on the concentrations in a street canyon in Guangzhou, China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2013; 177:4-12. [PMID: 23455396 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2013.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2011] [Revised: 01/08/2013] [Accepted: 01/18/2013] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, the effects of trees on CO2 concentrations in a street canyon in Guangzhou, China are examined by Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations of the concentration distribution, taking into account both the CO2 absorption/emission and aerodynamic effects of trees. Simulation results show that, under a 2 m/s southerly prevailing wind condition, CO2 absorption by trees will reduce the CO2 concentration by around 2.5% in the daytime and at the same time the trees' resistance will increase the difference of CO2 concentrations in the street and at the inflow by 43%. As the traffic density increases to 50 vehicles/min, the effect of trees on the ambient CO2 concentration will change from positive to negative. At night, trees have a negative effect on the concentration in the street canyon mainly because of their resistance to airflow. When environmental wind changes, the effect of trees will be different.
Collapse
|
61
|
Huang XZ, Zhong XX, Lu Y, Li YS, Rider AE, Furman SA, Ostrikov K. Plasmonic Ag nanoparticles via environment-benign atmospheric microplasma electrochemistry. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2013; 24:095604. [PMID: 23403974 DOI: 10.1088/0957-4484/24/9/095604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Atmospheric-pressure microplasma-assisted electrochemistry was used to synthesize Ag nanoparticles (NPs) for plasmonic applications. It is shown that the size and dispersion of the nanoparticles can be controlled by variation of the microplasma-assisted electrochemical process parameters such as electrolyte concentration and temperature. Moreover, Ag NP synthesis is also achieved in the absence of a stabilizer, with additional control over the dispersion and NP formation possible. As the microplasma directly reduces Ag ions in solution, the incorporation of toxic reducing agents into the electrolytic solution is unnecessary, making this an environmentally friendly fabrication technique with strong potential for the design and growth of plasmonic nanostructures for a variety of applications. These experiments therefore link microplasma-assisted electrochemical synthesis parameters with plasmonic characteristics.
Collapse
|
62
|
Shen CL, Kuo PC, Li YS, Lin GP, Huang KT, Ou SL, Chen SC. Effect of Ag underlayer on microstructures and perpendicular magnetic properties of CoPt nanocomposite thin films. JOURNAL OF NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY 2011; 11:11171-11175. [PMID: 22409079 DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2011.4044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
CoPt/Ag films were prepared by magnetron sputtering on glass substrates and subsequent annealing. The dependence of degree of ordering and magnetic properties on Ag film thickness and annealing conditions were investigated. It was found that the Ag underlayer played a dominant role in inducing the (001) texture of the CoPt film after annealing. CoPt films with a thickness about 20 nm and Ag underlayers with a thickness about 70 nm are easy to obtain a large degree of ordering and a perpendicular magnetic anisotropy after annealing at 700 degrees C for 30 min. CoPt/Ag films with out-of-plane coercivity (Hc (perpendicular)) in the range of 13.5-14.0 kOe and a out-of-plane squareness (S(perpendicular)) of 0.97 were obtained after annealing at 700 degrees C for 30 min. Ag underlayer is beneficial to enhance the Hc(perpendicular)and S(perpendicular) of CoPt film significantly. The degree of ordering and perpendicular magnetic properties of the CoPt films which deposited on Ag underlayer are larger than those of the single layer CoPt films.
Collapse
|
63
|
Gao S, Wang YJ, Xu AD, Li YS, Wang DZ. Chinese ischemic stroke subclassification. Front Neurol 2011; 2:6. [PMID: 21427797 PMCID: PMC3052771 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2011.00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2010] [Accepted: 01/31/2011] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Accurate classification of stroke has significant impact on patient care and conduction of stroke clinical trials. The current systems such as TOAST, SSS-TOAST, Korean TOAST, and A–S–C–O have limitations. With the advent of new imaging technology, there is a need to have a more accurate stroke subclassification system. Chinese ischemic stroke subclassification (CISS) system is a new two step system aims at the etiology and then underlying mechanism of a stroke. The first step classify stroke into five categories: large artery atherosclerosis (LAA), including atherosclerosis of aortic arch and intra-/extracranial large arteries, cardiogenic stroke, penetrating artery disease, other etiology, and undetermined etiology. The second step is to further classify the underlying mechanism of ischemic stroke from the intracranial and extracranial LAA into the parent artery (plaque or thrombosis) occluding penetrating artery, artery-to-artery embolism, hypoperfusion/impaired emboli clearance, and multiple mechanisms. Although clinical validation of CISS is being planned, CISS is an innovative system that offers much more detailed information on the pathophysiology of a stroke.
Collapse
|
64
|
Hsu CC, Hwang SJ, Tai TY, Chen T, Huang MC, Shin SJ, Wen CP, Shih YT, Yang HJ, Chang CT, Chang CJ, Loh CH, Fuh MT, Li YS, Chang HY. Cigarette smoking and proteinuria in Taiwanese men with Type 2 diabetes mellitus. Diabet Med 2010; 27:295-302. [PMID: 20536492 DOI: 10.1111/j.1464-5491.2010.02947.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Cigarette smoking is a well-known risk factor associated with diabetic nephropathy. The objective of this study was to further investigate the dose-response effect of tobacco exposure on proteinuria in males with Type 2 diabetes. METHODS Five hundred and nine males with Type 2 diabetes were selected from a cohort participating in a glucose control study in Taiwan. Pack-years of cigarette smoking were calculated to define tobacco exposure. Proteinuria was identified if albumin-to-creatinine ratio was > or = 30 mg/g in at least two of three consecutive urine tests. Logistic regression and trend tests were used to delineate the association between smoking status and proteinuria. RESULTS Compared with non-smokers, those who had smoked 15-30 or more than 30 pack-years were respectively 2.78 (95% CI 1.34-5.76, P < 0.01) and 3.20 (95% CI 1.74-5.86, P < 0.001) times more likely to develop proteinuria. The dose-response effect of tobacco exposure on the development of proteinuria is highly significant in all subjects (P = 0.001) and in subgroups with relatively short duration of diabetes mellitus (P < 0.001), good blood pressure control (P = 0.001) and those of young age (P = 0.007). CONCLUSIONS The current study shows a clear dose-response effect of cigarette smoking on development of proteinuria in male Type 2 diabetic patients. These findings reinforce the urgent need to encourage diabetic patients to stop smoking regardless of age, duration of diabetes mellitus or status of blood pressure control.
Collapse
|
65
|
Li YS, Tang Y, Yang Q, Maley J, Sammynaiken R, Regier T, Xiao C, Hirose A. Ultrathin W-Al dual interlayer approach to depositing smooth and adherent nanocrystalline diamond films on stainless steel. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2010; 2:335-338. [PMID: 20356176 DOI: 10.1021/am9007159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The adherence of diamond coated on steel is commonly low and needs to be strengthened with thick intermediate layers. In this paper, a nanoscale W-Al dual metal interlayer has been applied on SS304 substrates to facilitate deposition of continuous, adherent and smooth diamond thin films. During the microwave plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition process, the Al inner layer 30 nm thick diffuses into steel surface inhibiting carbon diffusion and graphitization. The W outer layer 20 nm thick is transformed into W carbides, both preventing carbon diffusion and enhancing diamond nucleation. The diamond films synthesized are of high purity and have smooth surfaces and dense structures. Indentation and shear deformation tests indicate high delaminating tolerance of the diamond films.
Collapse
|
66
|
Burke ML, Jones MK, Gobert GN, Li YS, Ellis MK, McManus DP. Immunopathogenesis of human schistosomiasis. Parasite Immunol 2009; 31:163-76. [PMID: 19292768 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.2009.01098.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 282] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis continues to be a significant cause of parasitic morbidity and mortality worldwide. This review considers the basic features of the pathology and clinical outcomes of hepatointestinal and genitourinary schistosomiasis, presents an overview of the numerous studies on animal models that have clarified many of the immunopathological features, and provides insight into our current understanding of the immunopathogenesis and genetic control of human schistosomiasis. In murine schistosomiasis, pathology is induced by a CD4(+) Th2 driven granulomatous response directed against schistosome eggs lodged in the host liver. The Th2 cytokines IL-4 and IL-13 drive this response, whereas IL-10, IL13Ralpha2, IFN-gamma and a subset of regulatory T-cells act to limit schistosome induced pathology. A variety of cell types including hepatic stellate cells, alternatively activated macrophages and regulatory T-cells have also been implicated in the pathogenesis of schistosomiasis. Current knowledge suggests the immunopathogenic mechanisms underlying human schistosomiasis are likely to be similar. The review also considers the future development of anti-pathology schistosome vaccines. As fibrosis is an important feature of many other diseases such as Crohn's disease and sarcoidosis, a comprehensive understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in schistosomiasis may also ultimately contribute to the development an effective disease intervention strategy for other granulofibrotic diseases.
Collapse
|
67
|
Guo H, Kwok NH, Cheng HR, Lee SC, Hung WT, Li YS. Formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds in Hong Kong homes: concentrations and impact factors. INDOOR AIR 2009; 19:206-17. [PMID: 19220507 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0668.2008.00580.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED This paper presents formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds (VOC) concentrations, potential sources and impact factors in 100 homes. The 24-h average formaldehyde concentration in 37 homes exceeded the good class of the Hong Kong Indoor Air Quality Objectives (HKIAQO), whereas the total VOCs concentration in all homes was lower than the HKIAQO. Compared to other East Asian cities, indoor formaldehyde and styrene in Hong Kong was the highest, reflecting that the homes in Hong Kong were more affected by household products and materials. The formaldehyde concentration in newly built apartments was significantly higher than that in old buildings, whereas no relationship between the concentration and the building age was found for VOCs. There was no difference for formaldehyde and toluene between smoking and non-smoking homes, suggesting that cigarette smoking was not the major source of these two species. Homes of a couple with a child had higher formaldehyde and acetic acid concentrations, while homes with more than three people had higher concentrations of 1-butanol, heptane and d-limonene. When shoes were inside the homes, heptane, acetic acid, nonane and styrene concentrations were statistically higher than that when shoes were out of the homes. Furthermore, higher levels of 1,2,4-trimethylbenzene, styrene, nonane and heptane were found in gas-use families rather than in electricity-use homes. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS Long-term exposure to formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds (VOC) in indoor environments may cause a number of adverse health effects such as asthma, dizziness, respiratory and lung diseases, and even cancers. Therefore, it is critical to minimize indoor air pollution caused by formaldehyde and VOCs. The findings obtained in this study would significantly enhance our understanding on the levels, emission sources and factors which affect indoor concentrations of formaldehyde and VOCs. The results can help housing designers, builders, home residents, and housing department of the government to improve indoor air quality (IAQ) by means of appropriate building materials, clean household products and proper life styles. It can also help policy makers reconcile the IAQ objectives and guidelines.
Collapse
|
68
|
Ying BW, Song XB, Fan H, Wang LL, Li YS, Cheng Z, Cheng H, Wen FQ. Plasma ghrelin levels and weight loss in Chinese Uygur patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. J Int Med Res 2009; 36:1371-7. [PMID: 19094448 DOI: 10.1177/147323000803600626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Ghrelin is an important orexigenic hormone that reduces fat oxidation and increases adiposity. This study investigated plasma ghrelin levels in Chinese Uygur patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Plasma ghrelin and anabolic and catabolic factors were measured in 38 patients and 24 control subjects. COPD patients were divided into two groups based on body mass index (BMI): underweight (BMI < 20 kg/m(2), n = 18) or normoweight (BMI > or = 20 kg/m(2), n = 20). Plasma ghrelin levels were found to be significantly higher in underweight than in normoweight patients or healthy controls. Circulating tumour necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6 concentrations were significantly higher in underweight than in normoweight patients, whereas insulin concentrations were significantly lower. Plasma ghrelin levels correlated negatively with forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV(1); r = 0.35), but did not significantly correlate with FEV(1)/forced vital capacity. Plasma ghrelin levels were elevated in underweight COPD patients and were associated with cachexia and abnormal pulmonary function.
Collapse
|
69
|
Li SW, Li YS, Tsui KC. Radioactivity in the atmosphere over Hong Kong. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2007; 94:98-106. [PMID: 17350146 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2007.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2006] [Revised: 01/08/2007] [Accepted: 01/12/2007] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Upper-air radioactivity soundings have been regularly conducted in Hong Kong since 1994. A total of 38 soundings, measuring the vertical profile of radioactivity in the atmosphere over Hong Kong using on-board Geiger-Müeller tubes, were made during the period 1994-2003 in different seasons and weather conditions. This paper presents the data obtained in Hong Kong and compares the composite vertical profile with observations in other parts of the world. The average Pfotzer maximum over Hong Kong was found to be at an altitude of around 16.1km, lower than those observed at higher latitudes. The variations of the Pfotzer maximum with geomagnetic rigidity and solar activity are discussed. Seasonal and local weather effects on radioactivity in the lower atmosphere were also studied.
Collapse
|
70
|
Zhang Q, Tong MY, Li YS, Gao HJ, Fang XC. Extensive desulfurization of diesel by Rhodococcus erythropolis. Biotechnol Lett 2006; 29:123-7. [PMID: 17091384 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-006-9209-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2006] [Revised: 09/12/2006] [Accepted: 09/13/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The resting cells of a new isolate of Rhodococcus erythropolis FSD-2 were used to desulfurize diesel fuels. About 97% of the total sulfur content in the hydrodesulfurized diesel was removed by the two consecutive biodesulfurization (BDS) processes with the majority ( approximately 94%) being removed in the first treatment, resulting in diesel with a sulfur content of 5.7 microg ml(-1).
Collapse
|
71
|
Bekker AY, Haile MM, Gorny A, Li YS, Quartermain D, Blanck TJJ. Moderate Hypoxia, Isoflurane Anesthesia, and Object Recognition in Adult Mice. J Neurosurg Anesthesiol 2006. [DOI: 10.1097/00008506-200610000-00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
72
|
Ross AG, Li YS, Sleigh AC, McManus DP. Schistosomiasis control in the People's Republic of China. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 13:152-5. [PMID: 15275103 DOI: 10.1016/s0169-4758(97)01026-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomes, snail-transmitted trematodes (blood flukes), cause a major parasitic disease that ranks second only to malaria in terms of human suffering in the tropics. Schistosoma japonicum has occupied its ecological niche in China for thousands of years; through natural selection it has evolved survival mechanisms that make it difficult (if not impossible) to eradicate. As discussed here by Allen Ross, Li Yuesheng, Adrian Sleigh and Don McManus, vaccination, in combination with current control strategies, may significantly reduce the morbidity of this disease and ultimately improve the quality of life for those living adjacent to endemic zones. This article provides a special focus in Hunan province and examines the potential impact of the Three Gorges Super Dam Project on schistosomiasis control.
Collapse
|
73
|
Chiou CS, Chang CF, Chang CY, Wu YP, Chang CT, Li YS, Chen YH. Mineralization of polyethylene glycol in aqueous solution by hydrogen peroxide with basic oxygen furnace slag. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY 2004; 25:1357-1365. [PMID: 15691196 DOI: 10.1080/09593332508618468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the dissolution behavior of basic oxygen furnace slag (BOF slag) and the performance of H2O2 with BOF slag denoted as H2O2/BOF slag process to degrade polyethylene glycol (PEG) in the aqueous solution. The concentration of total organic carbon (TOC) was chosen as a mineralization index of the degradation of PEG by the H2O2/BOF slag process. A first-order kinetic model with respect to TOC was adopted to represent the mineralization of PEG by H2O2/BOF slag process. The experimental results in this study suggested that dosages with 3.98 x 10(-4) mole min(-1) l(-1) H2O2 and 15 g l(-1) BOF slag loading in the solution at pH 2 provided the optimal operation conditions for the mineralization of PEG yielding a 75.5% treatment efficiency at 100 min reaction time. The H2O2/Fe2+ ratio was then determined to be 13.5:1.
Collapse
|
74
|
Li YS, Chen X, Wai OWH, King B. Study on the dynamics of algal bloom and its influence factors in Tolo Harbour, Hong Kong. WATER ENVIRONMENT RESEARCH : A RESEARCH PUBLICATION OF THE WATER ENVIRONMENT FEDERATION 2004; 76:2643-54. [PMID: 16042112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, the semi-enclosed bay named Tolo Harbour and Channel in Hong Kong, which was frequently attacked by red tides, was used as a case study. Data sets related to marine water quality, river nutrients, and meteorological conditions recorded between 1988 and 1999 were chosen for statistical analysis. A multivariate analysis showed that algal growth, represented by the chlorophyll a concentration, had obvious spatial and temporal variations in the study area. The chlorophyll a concentration had a consistently decreasing trend from the inner part of the Harbour and surface waters to the outer part and bottom waters. The temporal variations had a markedly seasonal variation with high bioproductivity in spring and winter. There were long-term fluctuations in the chlorophyll a concentration with a high-low-high pattern in the study period. Nutrients and hydrological and meteorological conditions were important factors of algal bloom. Besides nitrogen, which was the most critical factor of algal bloom for the whole water body, total phosphorus in the surface waters and phosphate (PO4) and silica (SiO2) in the bottom waters also showed strongly positive or negative correlations with the chlorophyll a level. For the meteorological conditions, global solar radiation was the key factor of massive algal bloom in the study period, while rainfall and wind direction were the most important factors of seasonal variation.
Collapse
|
75
|
Ip CCM, Li XD, Zhang G, Farmer JG, Wai OWH, Li YS. Over one hundred years of trace metal fluxes in the sediments of the Pearl River Estuary, South China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2004; 132:157-72. [PMID: 15276283 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2004.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2003] [Accepted: 03/16/2004] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The rapid economic development in the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region in South China in the last three decades has had a significant impact on the local environment. Estuarine sediment is a major sink for contaminants and nutrients in the surrounding ecosystem. The accumulation of trace metals in sediments may cause serious environmental problems in the aquatic system. Thirty sediment cores were collected in the Pearl River Estuary (PRE) in 2000 for a study on trace metal pollution in this region. Heavy metal concentrations and Pb isotopic compositions in the four 210Pb-dated sediment cores were determined to assess the fluxes in metal deposits over the last one hundred years. The concentrations of Cu, Pb and Zn in the surface sediment layers were generally elevated when compared with the sub-surface layers. There has been a significant increase in inputs of Cu, Pb and Zn in the PRE since the 1970s. The results also showed that different sampling locations in the estuary received slightly different types of inputs. Pb isotopic composition data indicated that the increased Pb in the recent sediments was of anthropogenic origin. The results of trace metal influxes showed that about 30% of total Pb and 15% of total Zn in the sediments in the 1990s were from anthropogenic sources. The combination of trace metal analysis, Pb isotopic composition and 210Pb dating in an estuary can provide vital information on the long-term accumulation of metals in sediments.
Collapse
|