A bifunctional two dimensional TM3(HHTP)2 monolayer and its variations for oxygen electrode reactions

To achieve renewable energy technologies, low-cost electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are required to replace Pt and IrO₂/RuO₂ catalysts.

The segregation resistance of the Pt2ML/Os/Pd3Al sandwich catalyst for oxygen reduction reaction: a density functional theory study

Pt_1ML/Pd₃Al, which comprises a Pd₃Al core protected by a Pt monolayer, may experience Al dealloying because of the strong affinity of Al toward O. To circumvent this issue, the Pt_2ML/Os/Pd₃Al catalyst has been designed to suppress the migration of Al by inserting an Os monolayer at the interface between the Pd₃Al core and two Pt monolayers. On the basis of segregation energies, Al leaching from the core to the 1st layer is determined to be endothermic even under O coverage, indicating an energetic preference for Al to reside in the core structure. The Pt_2ML/Os/Pd₃Al catalyst benefits from the energetic disadvantage of the inward movement of Os and the presence of the 2 ML Pt layer. As an ORR electrocatalyst, the relatively weak adsorption ability of Pt_2ML/Os/Pd₃Al suggests improved ORR activity. Finally, a representative OOH association mechanism with low reaction barriers of 0.46, 0.31, 0.38 and 0.41 eV for the OOH formation, OOH dissociation, OH formation and H₂O formation steps suggests that the catalyst can effectively activate the O-O bond and eliminate OH, which can act as a catalytic poison. These findings suggest the design of stable sandwich catalysts as potential candidates for ORR electrocatalysis.

[Hypoxia induced the remodeling of pulmonary arterial smooth muscles and increased the pulmonary artery smooth muscle Krüppel-like zinc-finger transcription factor 5 expression]

Objective: To study the effect of chronic hypoxia on pulmonary arterial remodeling and Krüppel-like zinc-finger transcription factor 5 (KLF5) protein expression in pulmonary artery smooth muscles in a hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension model. Methods: Totally 20 adult SD rats (200-250 g) were divided into a normoxia group and a chronic hypoxia group by the random number table. Rats in the chronic hypoxia group were put in an automatic hypoxia box for 21 days. After that, right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP), mean right ventricular pressure (mRVP) and RV/(LV+ S) were measured. Lung tissue sections were made. The lumen area, ratio of wall thickness to radius of pulmonary artery were gauged by using the Image Pro Plus software. Primary PASMCs were cultured in oxygen-deficient environment (4% O₂)or normal oxygen environment (21% O₂)for 60 hours respectively, and then total protein or RNA were extracted for Western blotting and Q-PCR analysis.KLF5 protein expression in rat pulmonary arterial smooth muscle and pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells was detected by Western blot. Results: Compared with the normoxia group(28.3±0.4), (11.3±1.0)mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa), the RVSP and mRVP in the chronic hypoxia group [(43.9±1.3), (26.5±2.3)mmHg] were significantly increased(P<0.05). The Rv/(LV+ S)of the chronic hypoxia group was(0.48±0.03), markedly higher than that of the normoxia group(0.27±0.01, P<0.05). The luminal area/total area of artery in the chronic hypoxia group decreased to (46.1±6.6)% compared with that in the normoxia group [(68.73±3.06)%, P<0.05]. The wall thickness/arterial radius(WT%)of the chronic hypoxia group increased up to (5.64±0.32)% as compared with (3.7±0.4)% of the normoxia group (P<0.05). The level of KLF5 protein in pulmonary arterial smooth muscles of the chronic hypoxia group was (21.6±7.2) times that of the normoxia group (P<0.05). Conclusion: Hypoxia induced the increase of RVSP, mRVP, RV/(LV+ S), accompanied with pulmonary arterial remodeling. The underlying mechanism of the artery change may be related to up-regulated expression of KLF5.

[Application of single nucleotide polymorphism-microarray and target gene sequencing in the study of genetic etiology of children with unexplained intellectual disability or developmental delay]

Objective: To evaluate the application of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-microarray and target gene sequencing technology in the clinical molecular genetic diagnosis of unexplained intellectual disability(ID) or developmental delay (DD). Method: Patients with ID or DD were recruited in the Department of Neurology, Affiliated Children's Hospital of Capital Institute of Pediatrics between September 2015 and February 2016. The intellectual assessment of the patients was performed using 0-6-year-old pediatric examination table of neuropsychological development or Wechsler intelligence scale (>6 years). Patients with a DQ less than 49 or IQ less than 51 were included in this study. The patients were scanned by SNP-array for detection of genomic copy number variations (CNV), and the revealed genomic imbalance was confirmed by quantitative real time-PCR. Candidate gene mutation screening was carried out by target gene sequencing technology.Causal mutations or likely pathogenic variants were verified by polymerase chain reaction and direct sequencing. Result: There were 15 children with ID or DD enrolled, 9 males and 6 females. The age of these patients was 7 months-16 years and 9 months. SNP-array revealed that two of the 15 patients had genomic CNV. Both CNV were de novo micro deletions, one involved 11q24.1q25 and the other micro deletion located on 21q22.2q22.3. Both micro deletions were proved to have a clinical significance due to their association with ID, brain DD, unusual faces etc. by querying Decipher database. Thirteen patients with negative findings in SNP-array were consequently examined with target gene sequencing technology, genotype-phenotype correlation analysis and genetic analysis. Five patients were diagnosed with monogenic disorder, two were diagnosed with suspected genetic disorder and six were still negative. Conclusion: Sequential use of SNP-array and target gene sequencing technology can significantly increase the molecular genetic etiologic diagnosis rate of the patients with unexplained ID or DD. Combined use of these technologies can serve as a useful examinational method in assisting differential diagnosis of children with unexplained ID or DD.

A Prospective Safety Trial of Atorvastatin Treatment to Assess Rebleeding after Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Serial MRI Investigation

AIM

This study was designed to determine any rebleeding after atorvastatin treatment following spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in a prospective safety trial.

PATIENTS

Atorvastatin (80 mg/day) therapy was initiated in 6 patients with primary ICH with admission Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) >5 within 24 hours of ictus and continued for 7 days, with the dose tapered and treatment terminated over the next 5 days. Patients were studied longitudinally by multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at three time points: acute (3 to 5 days), subacute (4 to 6 weeks) and chronic (3 to 4 months). Imaging sequences included T₁, T₂-weighted imaging (T₂WI), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and contrast-enhanced MRI measures of cerebral perfusion, blood volume and blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability. Susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI) was used to identify primary ICH and to check for secondary rebleeding. Final outcome was assessed using Glasgow Outcome Score (GOS) at 3-4 months.

RESULTS

Mean admission GCS was 13.2±4.0 and mean GOS at 3 months was 4.5±0.6. Hemorrhagic lesions were segmented into core and rim areas. Mean lesion volumes decreased significantly between the acute and chronic study time points (p=0.008). Average ipsilateral hemispheric tissue loss at 3 to 4 months was 11.4±4.6 cm³. MRI showed acutely reduced CBF (p=0.004) and CBV (p=0.002) in the rim, followed by steady normalization. Apparent diffusion coefficient of water (ADC) in the rim demonstrated no alterations at any of the time points (p>0.2). The T₂ values were significantly elevated in the rim acutely (p=0.02), but later returned to baseline. The ICH core showed sustained low CBF and CBV values concurrent with a small reduction in ADC acutely, but significant ADC elevation at the end suggestive of irreversible injury.

CONCLUSION

Despite the presence of a small, probably permanent, cerebral lesion in the ICH core, no patients exhibited post-treatment rebleeding. These data suggest that larger, Phase 2 trials are warranted to establish long term clinical safety of atorvastatin in spontaneous ICH.

[A survey on tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia in China: from patients'perspective]

OBJECTIVES

To assess tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment status in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) in China and analyze the response-associated factors.

METHODS

From May to November in 2014, anonymous questionnaires were distributed to adult CML patients who were receiving TKI treatment all over China.

RESULTS

1 038 questionnaires were collected, 949 questionnaires were evaluable. Of the 949 evaluable respondents, 549 (58%) were male with the median age of 41 years (range, 18 to 88 years). 623 (66%) respondents lived in an urban area and 449 (47%) had an education level ≥ a bachelor degree. 888 (94%) respondents were in the chronic phase at diagnosis, and 690 (78%) of them started TKI treatment within one year after diagnosis. 794 (84%) respondents were on imatinib, 768 (81%) on the branded. With a median TKI treatment duration of 3 years (range, <1 to 13 years), 708 of 834 (85%) evaluable respondents achieved Ph- negative (i.e. complete cytogenetic response, CCyR), and 497 of 859 (46% ) BCR- ABL negative (i.e. complete molecular response, CMR). Multivariate analyses showed that female (OR=1.8, 95% CI 1.1-2.8,P=0.019 andOR=1.5, 95% CI 1.1-2.0,P=0.015), TKI treatment duration >3 years (OR=4.1, 95% CI 2.6- 6.5,P<0.001 andOR=3.7, 95% CI 2.7- 5.1,P< 0.001) and imatinib taken (OR=2.1, 95% CI 1.2-3.7,P=0.007 andOR=3.3, 95% CI 2.1-5.1,P<0.001) were factors affecting achieving both CCyR and CMR. In addition, higher education level (OR=2.0, 95% CI 1.3- 3.1,P=0.003), starting TKI treatment <1 year (OR=2.4, 95% CI 1.5- 3.8,P<0.001) and branded drugs received (OR=2.4, 95% CI 1.4- 4.0,P=0.001) were factors affecting achieving a CCyR. In 884 respondents, 534 (62%) reported " heavy financial burden" as the biggest treatment impediment, only 152 (17%) reported " poor quality of life related to adverse effects of TKI".

CONCLUSIONS

The survey showed that majority of the Chinese CML patients received imatinib as a TKI therapy, and most of the patients achieved satisfied responses by TKI. Financial burden became the major obstacle during TKI treatment.

Screening for osteoporosis in Chinese post-menopausal women: a health economic modelling study

Screening and appropriate treatment for osteoporosis has been proven to be cost-effective in many populations; however, it is not clear in the Chinese population. Simulations using a validated health economics model suggest that screening for osteoporosis in Chinese women is cost-effective and may even be cost-saving in Chinese post-menopausal women.

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed at determining the cost-effectiveness of osteoporosis screening strategies in post-menopausal Chinese women.

METHODS

A validated state-transition microsimulation model with a lifetime horizon was used to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of different screening strategies with treatment of alendronate compared with current osteoporosis management in China. Osteoporosis screening strategies assessed were (1) universal screening with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) alone; (2) Osteoporosis Self-Assessment Tool for Asians (OSTA) + DXA; and (3) quantitative ultrasound (QUS) + DXA with rescreening at 2, 5 or 10-year intervals for patients screened negative by DXA. The study was performed from the Chinese healthcare payer's perspective. All model inputs were retrieved from publically available literature. Uncertainties were addressed by one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analysis.

RESULTS

Screening strategies all improved clinical outcomes at increased costs, and each were cost-effective compared with no screening in women aged 55 years given the Chinese willingness-to-pay threshold of USD 20,000 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained. Pre-screening with QUS and subsequent DXA screening if the QUS T-score ≤ -0.5 with a 2-year rescreening interval was the most cost-effective strategy with the highest probability of being cost-effective across all non-dominated strategies. Screening strategies were cost-saving if screenings were initiated from age 65 years. One-way sensitivity analyses indicated that the results were robust.

CONCLUSIONS

Pre-screening with QUS with subsequent DXA screening if the QUS T-score ≤ -0.5 with a 2-year rescreening interval in the Chinese women starting at age 55 is the most cost-effective. In addition, screening and treatment strategies are cost-saving if the screening initiation age is greater than 65 years.

Effect of FUT3 gene silencing with miRNA on proliferation, invasion and migration abilities of human KATO-III gastric cancer cell line

This study investigated the effects of FUT3 gene expression inhibition with miRNA on the proliferation, invasion and migration abilities of KATO-III cells. KATO-III cells were transfected with plasmid pcDNA™6.2-GW/EmGFP-FUT3-miR(FUT3-miRNA) and negative control plasmid in mediation of liposome, respectively, using untransfected cells as blank controls. Forty-eight hours after transfection, FUT3 mRNA levels were tested by RT-PCR. Levels of sLeA proteins were assayed by Western blot. The effects of FUT3-miRNA on the proliferation, invasion and migration of KATO-III cells were determined by CCK8 testing and Transwell assays, respectively. Results indicate that the transfection of FUT3-miRNA may down-regulate sLeA protein expression on the surface of KATO-III cells, and significantly inhibit cell proliferation (p&lt;0.05). As compared to the negative and blank control groups, the number of invasion and migration cells in the FUT3-miRNA group decreased significantly (each p&lt;0.05). Experimental results indicate that the miRNA expression vector which targets the FUT3 gene can effectively inhibit the proliferation, migration and invasion abilities of KATO-III cells.

[The prognostic significance of proportion of blasts in bone marrow on day 14 during induction chemotherapy in patients with adult Ph-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prognostic significance of proportion of the blasts in bone marrow on day 14 (D14) during induction chemotherapy in patients with adult Ph-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph (-) ALL).

METHODS

Newly diagnosed Ph (-) ALL patients with bone marrow morphology analysis on day 14 during induction chemotherapy were analyzed retrospectively. The proportion of the D14 blasts which had an impact on achieving a CR by the first induction chemotherapy and outcomes were determined by ROC curve.

RESULTS

166 ALL patients including 94 male and 72 female were analyzed. The median age was 32 years (range, 18-64 years). The CR rate by the first induction chemotherapy was 74.7% with a total CR rate as 93.3%. By ROC analysis, 7.5% of the D14 blasts had the best sensitivity and specificity. The patients with D14 blasts ≥7.5% had lower CR rates after the first and overall induction chemotherapy compared with those with D14 blasts <7.5% (42.7% vs 85.9%, P<0.001 and 75.9% vs 95.6%, P=0.001 respectively). The probabilities of 5-year disease free survival (DFS) and 5-year overall survival (OS) were higher in the patients with D14 blasts<7.5% than those with D14 blasts ≥7.5% (49.8% vs 29.6%, P=0.006 and 52.4% vs 32.6%, P=0.010 respectively). Multivariate analysis showed that higher WBC or central nervous system leukemia at diagnosis, D14 blasts ≥7.5%, no CR after the first induction chemotherapy and receiving consolidation and maintenance chemotherapy rather than transplant were associated with poor outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher proportion of D14 blasts in bone marrow during the first induction therapy indicated poor prognosis in adult Ph(-) ALL.

Design of Hydrogen Storage Alloys/Nanoporous Metals Hybrid Electrodes for Nickel-Metal Hydride Batteries

Nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries have demonstrated key technology advantages for applications in new-energy vehicles, which play an important role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the world's dependence on fossil fuels. However, the poor high-rate dischargeability of the negative electrode materials-hydrogen storage alloys (HSAs) limits applications of Ni-MH batteries in high-power fields due to large polarization. Here we design a hybrid electrode by integrating HSAs with a current collector of three-dimensional bicontinuous nanoporous Ni. The electrode shows enhanced high-rate dischargeability with the capacity retention rate reaching 44.6% at a discharge current density of 3000 mA g(-1), which is 2.4 times that of bare HSAs (18.8%). Such a unique hybrid architecture not only enhances charge transfer between nanoporous Ni and HSAs, but also facilitates rapid diffusion of hydrogen atoms in HSAs. The developed HSAs/nanoporous metals hybrid structures exhibit great potential to be candidates as electrodes in high-performance Ni-MH batteries towards applications in new-energy vehicles.

A CdSe thin film: a versatile buffer layer for improving the performance of TiO2 nanorod array:PbS quantum dot solar cells

To fully utilize the multiple exciton generation effects in quantum dots and improve the overall efficiency of the corresponding photovoltaic devices, nanostructuralizing the electron conducting layer turns out to be a feasible strategy. Herein, PbS quantum dot solar cells were fabricated on the basis of morphologically optimized TiO2 nanorod arrays. By inserting a thin layer of CdSe quantum dots into the interface of TiO2 and PbS, a dramatic enhancement in the power conversion efficiency from 4.2% to 5.2% was realized and the resulting efficiency is one of the highest values for quantum dot solar cells based on nanostructuralized buffer layers. The constructed double heterojunction with a cascade type-II energy level alignment is beneficial for promoting photogenerated charge separation and reducing charge recombination, thereby responsible for the performance improvement, as revealed by steady-state analyses as well as ultra-fast photoluminescence and photovoltage decays. Thus this paper provides a good buffer layer to the community of quantum dot solar cells.

A novel splice variant of the bovine GALNTL5 gene identified in Chinese Holstein bull testis tissue and its mRNA expression

The polypeptide N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase-like protein 5 (GALNTL5) is a newly identified protein that is specifically expressed in testis tissue and participates in spermatogenesis. In this study, we characterized a novel bovine GALNTL5 splice variant, designated as GALNTL5-AS, by using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and clone sequencing methods. The novel GALNTL5 isoform was derived from the complete transcript, GALNTL5-complete, via alternative splicing (AS). The pattern of the splice variant was exon skipping. Bovine GALNTL5 transcripts were expressed in the testis, as demonstrated by RT-PCR. The expression levels of both transcripts were higher in adult testes than in calf testes (P < 0.05). In addition, prediction analysis showed that the GALNTL5-AS transcript only encoded 122 amino acids and lost its glycosyltransferase 1 and Gal/GalNAc-T motifs, which may result in a dysfunctional protein compared with the predominant transcript GALNTL5-complete. This study improves our understanding of the bovine GALNTL5 gene function during bull sperm formation.

Identification of CD14 transcript in blood polymorphonuclear neutrophil leukocytes and functional variation in Holsteins

Polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) leukocytes are primary phagocytic cells of the bovine mammary gland and a first line of defense against invading pathogens during bovine mastitis infection. Cluster of differentiation 14 (CD14) is mainly expressed in macrophages and neutrophils and acts as a co-receptor that binds bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and recruits PMNs to CD14-LPS complexes in mammary epithelial cells. In this study, we identified a novel splice variant in PMNs, named CD14-SV, characterized by a deleted region from c.143-579 nt compared to the CD14 reference mRNA sequence. Moreover, a single nucleotide polymorphism (c.523 A>G) in exon 2 of CD14 was identified and found to modify the secondary structure and hydrophilicity of the CD14 protein. Association analysis also showed that the milk somatic cell score, an indicator of mastitis, of cows with the GG genotype was lower than that of cows with the AA and AG genotypes. Our findings suggest that the expression of CD14 in bovine blood PMNs is regulated by alternative splicing, and that CD14-SV is a candidate functional marker that may influence mastitis-resistance in dairy cows.

Inhibitory activity in vitro of probiotic lactobacilli against oral Candida under different fermentation conditions

Clinical studies have shown that probiotics positively affect oral health by decreasing gum bleeding and/or reducing salivary counts of certain oral pathogens. Our aim was to investigate the inhibitory effect of six probiotic lactobacilli against opportunistic oral Candida species. Sugar utilisation by both lactobacilli and Candida was also assessed. Agar overlay assay was utilised to study growth inhibition of Candida albicans, Candida glabrata and Candida krusei by Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Lactobacillus casei Shirota, Lactobacillus reuteri SD2112, Lactobacillus brevis CD2, Lactobacillus bulgaricus LB86 and L. bulgaricus LB Lact. The inhibitory effect was measured at pH 5.5, 6.4, and 7.2, respectively, and in the presence of five different carbohydrates in growth medium (glucose, fructose, lactose, sucrose, and sorbitol). Growth and final pH values were measured at two-hour time points to 24 h. L. rhamnosus GG showed the strongest inhibitory activity in fructose and glucose medium against C. albicans, followed by L. casei Shirota, L. reuteri SD2112 and L. brevis CD2. None of the lactobacilli tested affected the growth of C. krusei. Only L. rhamnosus GG produced slight inhibitory effect on C. glabrata. The lower pH values led to larger inhibition zones. Sugar fermentation profiles varied between the strains. L. casei Shirota grew in the presence of all sugars tested, whereas L. brevis CD2 could utilise only glucose and fructose. All Candida species metabolised the available sugars but the most rapid growth was observed with C. glabrata. The results suggest that commercially available probiotics differ in their inhibitory activity and carbohydrate utilisation; the above properties are modified by different pH values and sugars with more pronounced inhibition at lower pH.

[Comparison of efficacy and prognostic factors in elderly acute myelogenous patients with MA or CAG induction chemotherapy regimen]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the difference of efficacy and prognostic factors between MA and CAG induction chemotherapy in elderly acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) patients.

METHODS

From April 2009 to September 2015, 103 consecutive hospitalized 60-plus-year-old AML patients were retrospectively analyzed. NPM1 positive FLT3-ITD negative accounted for 17 cases (16.7%). Sixty-five patients received MA regimen and thirty-eight patients received CAG regimen. MA group had higher WBC and FLT3-ITD positive mutations at diagnosis compared with CAG group (P=0.001, P=0.005; respectively). The median follow-up was 13 months for all patients and 17 months for the survivors.

RESULTS

Six patient (5.8%) died in early phase. Complete remission (CR) rate after the first cycle of induction chemotherapy was 51.5% (50/97). Overall CR rate was 70.1% (68/97). CR rate after the first cycle of induction chemotherapy and overall CR rate were indiscriminate between MA and CAG regimen. The time to neutrophil count recovery, the time to platelet count recovery and the number of platelet transfusions were indiscriminate between MA and CAG regimen. Among 68 CR patients, 23 patients relapsed at median 9 months, and cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR) at 3 years was (52.5±10.1)%. Median overall survival (OS) was 20 months. OS rate at 3 years was 32.2%. Median disease-free survival (DFS) was 28 months. DFS rate at 3 years was 43.7%. CIR, DFS and OS at 3 years were indiscriminate between MA and CAG regimen. Multivariate analysis showed that less than 70 years of age (P=0.001), achieved CR (P<0.001), and NPM1 (+) FLT3-ITD(-) mutation (P=0.044) were the independent factors for increasing OS. NPM1(+) FLT3-ITD(-) mutation was the independent factor for increasing DFS (P=0.042). Patients were classified by three prognosis factors: <70 ages, CR, and NPM1(+)FLT3-ITD(-) mutation. Patients with no poor prognosis factors were classified as low risk (n=13), with one factor as medium risk (n=52) and with two and more factors as high risk (n=31). There were significant differences in OS rate and DFS rate at 3 years for 3 groups patients (60.5% vs 48.1% vs 0, P<0.001; 60.2% vs 39.4% vs 0, P=0.045; respectively). OS and DFS at 3 years for 3 groups' patients were indiscriminate between MA and CAG regimen.

CONCLUSIONS

There was indiscrimination of efficacy among MA and CAG induction chemotherapy in old AML patients. Less than 70 years of age, CR and NPM1(+)FLT3-ITD(-) mutation were the independent factors for better survival.

Prominence of Medullary Veins on Susceptibility-Weighted Images Provides Prognostic Information in Patients with Subacute Stroke

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The demonstration of prominent medullary veins in the deep white matter ipsilateral to acute ischemic stroke has been shown to predict poor clinical outcome. We have investigated the prognostic implications of prominent medullary veins in patients with subacute stroke who present outside the therapeutic window for revascularization therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-three consecutive patients with ischemic stroke in the middle cerebral artery territory presenting within 3-7 days of ictus were enrolled. The presence of prominent medullary veins in the periventricular white matter of the ipsilateral and contralateral medullary vein hemispheres was recorded. Perfusion-weighted imaging was used to calculate differences in hemispheric CBF from corresponding areas. Clinical outcome was classified as good if the modified Rankin Scale score was <3.

RESULTS

Prominent medullary veins were observed in 24/43 patients with 14 ipsilateral medullary veins and 10 contralateral medullary veins. The ipsilateral medullary vein was independently associated with poor outcome (odds ratio, 11.19; P = .046). The contralateral medullary vein was not independently predictive of outcome but was significantly more common in patients with good outcome (90.0% contralateral medullary veins). A mean 64.5% decrease and a 52.4% increase of differences in hemispheric CBF were found in ipsilateral medullary veins and contralateral medullary veins, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The ipsilateral medullary vein was a significant predictive biomarker of poor clinical outcome after stroke and was associated with hypoperfusion. The contralateral medullary vein was associated with good clinical outcome, and we hypothesize that prominent contralateral medullary veins indirectly reflect increased CBF in the ipsilateral hemisphere due to spontaneous recanalization or collateral flow.

All-trans retinoic acid inhibits HOXA7 expression in leukemia cell NB4

Leukemia is a malignant proliferative disease of blood system, which is caused by hyperplasia of white blood cells and infiltration into other tissues and organs with blood flow, leading to a series of clinical manifestations. In this study, we detected the expression of HOXA7 gene in human acute promyelocytic leukemia cell line NB4. The expression level of HOXA7 decreased in the presence of ATRA, which was able to inhibit the proliferation of NB4 cells. Furthermore, ATRA altered the morphology of NB4 cells. The study suggested that HOXA7 might be a new gene candidate that influences the maturation of acute myeloid leukemia, and provided the molecular basis for the treatment for acute promyelocyticleukemia.

238 PRODUCTION OF CLEAVAGE-RESISTANT PHYTASE TRANSGENIC PIGS BY HANDMADE CLONING

Rapidly developing and intensive animal husbandry of livestock is a major contributor to global environmental pollutions. Large quantities and high concentrations of manure waste that contains phytate phosphorus are generated. The use of phytase can effectively solve the problem of high phosphorus pollution in the fecal material of monogastric animals. Enviropigs, producing phytase in the salivary glands and secreting the enzyme in the saliva, were first generated at the University of Guelph (Guelph, ON, Canada) in 1999. However, phytase is easily inactivated in digestive processing. To address this problem, we improved the transgene construct and successfully generated phytase transgenic pigs by handmade cloning. The Escherichia coli periplasmic phosphoanhydride phosphohydrolase (appA) gene was subcloned. Using fragment substitution method, we designed a phytase gene that was insensitive to cleavage by pepsin and trypsin and had a higher affinity for the substrate. After codon optimization, the designed phytase gene was named Cafp and subcloned downstream of the pig parotid secretory protein (PSP) gene promoter. The tissue-specific vector p-PSP-Intron-Cafp was constructed and transferred into Landrace fetal fibroblasts by electroporation. The cell lines carrying Cafp were used as nuclear donors in handmade cloning. Cloned embryos were cultured in vitro to blastocysts and transferred to recipient sows. The presence of Cafp was tested by PCR and sequencing of cloned pigs. Phytase activity in saliva, feed, and feces was detected by the ammonium molybdate method with a slight modification. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to determine tissue-specific expression. Three cell lines carrying Cafp were obtained. We generated 1027 blastocysts; 712 were of good quality and transferred to 6 recipients. Fourteen piglets were born, of which 6 survived. The PCR and sequencing results showed that 7 (3 live and 4 dead) of the 14 piglets carried Cafp. Phytase activity in the saliva of the 6 live cloned pigs was tested at 4 months of age and only 1 pig had 0.155 FTU mL–1 enzyme activity. The enzyme in the other 2 pigs may be inactivated in the transgenic parotid gland. Among all the transgenic pigs, the highest phosphorus digestion rate was 59.2% of intake, which represents a 25.4% decrease in fecal emissions compared with the average of controls. The IHC results on the 3 later dead, Cafp-positive pigs showed that the transgene was expressed only in parotids, confirming tissue-specific gene expression. In summary, cleavage-resistant phytase transgenic pigs were successfully produced through handmade cloning. The cloned pigs offer a unique biological approach to manage phosphorus nutrition and environmental pollution in animal husbandry.

Pressure evolution of the potential barriers of phase transition of MoS2, MoSe2 and MoTe2

Two-dimensional crystals with weak layer interactions, such as transitional metal dichalcogenides, have been a focus of research recently.

Controlling phase transition for single-layer MTe2 (M = Mo and W): modulation of the potential barrier under strain

Using first-principles DFT calculations, the pathway and the energy barrier of phase transition between 2H and 1T′ have been investigated for MoTe₂ and WTe₂ monolayers.

Clinical significance of plasma fibrinogen and D-dimer in predicting the chemotherapy efficacy and prognosis for small cell lung cancer patients

PURPOSE

Elevated plasma fibrinogen and D-dimer levels indicate activation of hemostasis and fibrinolysis, and this activation is required for tumor angiogenesis, metastasis, and invasion. Previous studies demonstrated that the plasma fibrinogen and D-dimer levels correlate with patient's prognosis in several solid tumors. The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between plasma fibrinogen and D-dimer levels before and during chemotherapy and treatment response and survival in patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC).

METHODS

Plasma fibrinogen and D-dimer levels before and during chemotherapy were prospectively measured in 74 SCLC patients who received first-line therapy. The results were analyzed for correlation between fibrinogen and D-dimer levels and treatment response, as well as progressive-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

The levels of fibrinogen and D-dimer in SCLC patients before (C0) and after two cycles (C2) of chemotherapy were significantly higher than those in controls. Fibrinogen and D-dimer levels decreased during chemotherapy, and changes in fibrinogen and D-dimer levels between at C0 and at C2 were associated with treatment response. No matter which disease stage, patients with fibrinogen or D-dimer positivities at C0 and C2 time points had worse PFS and OS than those with fibrinogen or D-dimer negativities. Multivariate analyses revealed that fibrinogen and D-dimer positivities after two chemotherapy cycles were independently unfavorable factors for PFS and OS.

CONCLUSION

Fibrinogen and D-dimer levels after two cycles of chemotherapy are predictors for response on chemotherapy and prognosis in SCLC patients.

Projection of osteoporosis-related fractures and costs in China: 2010-2050

A state-transition microsimulation model was used to project the substantial economic burden to the Chinese healthcare system of osteoporosis-related fractures. Annual number and costs of osteoporosis-related fractures were estimated to double by 2035 and will increase to 5.99 (95 % CI 5.44, 6.55) million fractures costing $25.43 (95 % CI 23.92, 26.95) billion by 2050. Consequently, cost-effective intervention policies must urgently be identified in an attempt to minimize the impact of fractures.

INTRODUCTION

The aim of the study was to project the osteoporosis-related fractures and costs for the Chinese population aged ≥50 years from 2010 to 2050.

METHODS

A state-transition microsimulation model was used to simulate the annual incident fractures and costs. The simulation was performed with a 1-year cycle length and from the Chinese healthcare system perspective. Incident fractures and annual costs were estimated from 100 unique patient populations for year 2010, by multiplying the age- and sex-specific annual fracture risks and costs of fracture by the corresponding population totals in each of the 100 categories. Projections for 2011-2050 were performed by multiplying the 2010 risks and costs of fracture by the respective annual population estimates. Costs were presented in 2013 US dollars.

RESULTS

Approximately 2.33 (95 % CI 2.08, 2.58) million osteoporotic fractures were estimated to occur in 2010, costing $9.45 (95 % CI 8.78, 10.11) billion. Females sustained approximately three times more fractures than males, accounting for 76 % of the total costs from 1.85 (95 % CI 1.68, 2.01) million fractures. The annual number and costs of osteoporosis-related fractures were estimated to double by 2035 and will increase to 5.99 (95 % CI 5.44, 6.55) million fractures costing $25.43 (95 % CI 23.92, 26.95) billion by 2050.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrated that osteoporosis-related fractures cause a substantial economic burden which will markedly increase over the coming decades. Consequently, healthcare resource planning must consider these increasing costs, and cost-effective screening and intervention policies must urgently be identified in an attempt to minimize the impact of fractures on the health of the burgeoning population as well as the healthcare budget.

Transformation of electronic properties and structural phase transition from HfN to Hf3N4

We report investigation of the structural phase transition and electronic properties of Hf(1-x)N (0 ⩽ x ⩽ 0.25) using first principles calculations. The defective NaCl-type structure with Hf vacancies (V(Hf)) is found to be stable over a large phase region. Hf3N4 with the Zr3N4-type structure is only stable in relative small region and readily destabilized when the stoichiometric ratio of N to Hf deviates from 4/3. The electronic and optic properties of Hf(1-x)N are controlled by the concentration of V(Hf). The full depletion of excess free electrons from Hf atoms results in the structural phase transition of Hf3N4.

Cu₄ Cluster Doped Monolayer MoS₂ for CO Oxidation

The catalytic oxidation of CO molecule on a thermodynamically stable Cu₄ cluster doped MoS₂ monolayer is investigated by density functional theory (DFT) where the reaction proceeds in a new formation order of COOOCO* (O₂* + 2CO* → COOOCO*), OCO* (COOOCO* → CO₂ + OCO*), and CO₂ (OCO* → CO₂) desorption with the corresponding reaction barrier values of 0.220 eV, 0.370 eV and 0.119 eV, respectively. Therein, the rate-determining step is the second one. This low barrier indicates high activity of this system where CO oxidation could be realized at room temperature (even lower). As a result, the Cu₄ doped MoS₂ could be a candidate for CO oxidation with lower cost and higher activity without poisoning and corrosion problems.

Screening for and treatment of osteoporosis: construction and validation of a state-transition microsimulation cost-effectiveness model

This study aimed to document and validate a new cost-effectiveness model of osteoporosis screening and treatment strategies. The state-transition microsimulation model demonstrates strong internal and external validity. It is an important tool for researchers and policy makers to test the cost-effectiveness of osteoporosis screening and treatment strategies.

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this study was to document and validate a new cost-effectiveness model of screening for and treatment of osteoporosis.

METHODS

A state-transition microsimulation model using a lifetime horizon was constructed with seven Markov states (no history of fractures, hip fracture, vertebral fracture, wrist fracture, other fracture, postfracture state, and death) describing the most important clinical outcomes of osteoporotic fractures. Tracker variables were used to record patients' history, such as fracture events, duration of treatment, and time since last screening. The model was validated for Chinese postmenopausal women receiving screening and treatment versus no screening. Goodness-of-fit analyses were performed for internal and external validation. External validity was tested by comparing life expectancy, osteoporosis prevalence rate, and lifetime and 10-year fracture risks with published data not used in the model.

RESULTS

The model represents major clinical facets of osteoporosis-related conditions. Age-specific hip, vertebral, and wrist fracture incidence rates were accurately reproduced (the regression line slope was 0.996, R(2) = 0.99). The changes in costs, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness were consistent with changes in both one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analysis. The model predicted life expectancy and 10-year any major osteoporotic fracture risk at the age of 65 of 19.01 years and 13.7%, respectively. The lifetime hip, clinical vertebral, and wrist fracture risks at age 50 were 7.9, 29.8, and 18.7% respectively, all consistent with reported data.

CONCLUSIONS

Our model demonstrated good internal and external validity, ensuring it can be confidently applied in economic evaluations of osteoporosis screening and treatment strategies.

Mutation of the rice ASL2 gene encoding plastid ribosomal protein L21 causes chloroplast developmental defects and seedling death

The plastid ribosome proteins (PRPs) play important roles in plastid protein biosynthesis, chloroplast differentiation and early chloroplast development. However, the specialised functions of individual protein components of the chloroplast ribosome in rice (Oryza sativa) remain unresolved. In this paper, we identified a novel rice PRP mutant named asl2 (Albino seedling lethality 2) exhibiting an albino, seedling death phenotype. In asl2 mutants, the alteration of leaf colour was associated with chlorophyll (Chl) content and abnormal chloroplast development. Through map-based cloning and complementation, the mutated ASL2 gene was isolated and found to encode the chloroplast 50S ribosome protein L21 (RPL21c), a component of the chloroplast ribosome large subunit, which was localised in chloroplasts. ASL2 was expressed at a higher level in the plumule and leaves, implying its tissue-specific expression. Additionally, the expression of ASL2 was regulated by light. The transcript levels of the majority of genes for Chl biosynthesis, photosynthesis and chloroplast development were strongly affected in asl2 mutants. Collectively, the absence of functional ASL2 caused chloroplast developmental defects and seedling death. This report establishes the important role of RPL21c in chloroplast development in rice.

The protective effect of huperzine A against hepatic ischemia reperfusion injury in mice

BACKGROUND

Nowadays, hepatic ischemia reperfusion (HI/R) injury is regarded as a serious concern in clinical practices. Huperzine A (HupA) is an alkaloid isolated from the Chinese folk medicine huperzia serrate, which has possessed diverse pharmacological actions.

METHODS

A mouse model of HI/R was caused by clamping the hepatic artery, the hepatoportal vein, and the bile duct with a vascular clamp for 30 minutes followed by reperfusion for 6 hours under anesthesia. The sham group experienced the identical procedure without hepatic ischemia. The HupA group received an injection into the tail vein 5 minutes prior to HI/R at the doses of 167 and 500 μg/kg. The vehicle group was injected with physiological saline instead of HupA. The liver function was assessed by determinations of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities. Tissue levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), malondiadehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH) were also measured spectrophotometrically. In addition, the activities of hepatic inflammatory mediators such as nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) p65, tumor necrosis factors-α (TNF-α, interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-6 were also measured. Furthermore, the apoptotic damage was evaluated by measuring caspase-3 activity in hepatic tissues.

RESULTS

Treatment with HupA in mice at the doses of 167 and 500 μg/kg remarkably reduced serum ALT and AST activities in HupA-treated ischemic mice. Furthermore, HupA treatment could enhance the activities of hepatic tissue SOD, CAT, and GSH but decrease MDA tissue content. The activities of inflammatory cytokines including NF-κB p65, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 were all decreased in ischemic mice treated with HupA. Colorimetric test results illustrated that a marked reduction of caspase-3 activity was found in the HupA-treated group compared with the vehicle group.

CONCLUSION

Our present data suggest that HupA has a protective role against HI/R injury of mice and antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic actions are involved in its protection.

DFT study of CO oxidation on Cu2O–Au interfaces at Au–Cu alloy surfaces

CO oxidation on the Cu₂O–Au interface at Au–Cu alloy surfaces.

Presence of CD34(+)CD38(-)CD58(-) leukemia-propagating cells at diagnosis identifies patients at high risk of relapse with Ph chromosome-positive ALL after allo-hematopoietic SCT

Relapse of Ph chromosome-positive ALL (Ph(+)ALL) results from the persistence of leukemia-propagating cells (LPCs). In Ph(+)ALL, a xenograft assay recently determined that LPCs are enriched in the CD34(+)CD38(-)CD58(-) fraction. Therefore, the prognostic significance of LPCs in Ph(+)ALL subjects after allogeneic hematopoietic SCT (allo-HSCT) was investigated. A total of 80 consecutive adults with Ph(+)ALL who underwent allo-HSCT were eligible. A multi-parameter flow cytometry analysis examining CD58-FITC/CD10-PE/ CD19-APC-Cy7/CD34-PerCP/CD45-Vioblue/ CD38-APC on gated leukemia BM blasts was performed at diagnosis. Based on the original blast phenotypes, subjects were stratified into the CD34(+)CD38(-)CD58(-)group (N=15) and other phenotype group (N=65). During minimal residual disease monitoring, significantly higher levels of BCR/ABL transcripts were detected in subjects in the CD34(+)CD38(-)CD58(-) group than in other phenotype group, especially at 3 months post HSCT. In addition, CD34(+)CD38(-)CD58(-)LPCs are directly correlated with a higher 3-year cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR) and worse leukemia-free survival (LFS) and OS. Multivariate analyses indicated that presence of CD34(+)CD38(-)CD58(-) LPCs at diagnosis, and BCR-ABL reduction at 3 months post HSCT were independent risk factors for relapse, LFS and OS. Our data suggest that presence of CD34(+)CD38(-)CD58(-) LPCs at diagnosis allows rapid identification of high-risk patients for relapse after allo-HSCT.

Cloning and sequence analysis of the Blumea balsamifera DC farnesyl diphosphate synthase gene

Blumea balsamifera DC is a member of the Compositae family and is frequently used as traditional Chinese medicine. Blumea balsamifera is rich in monoterpenes, which possess a variety of pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-bacteria, and anti-viral activities. Farnesyl diphosphate synthase (FPS) is a key enzyme in the biosynthetic pathway of terpenes, playing an important regulatory role in plant growth, such as resistance and secondary metabolism. Based on the conserved oligo amino acid residues of published FPS genes from other higher plant species, a cDNA sequence, designated BbFPS, was isolated from B. balsamifera DC using polymerase chain reaction. The clones were an average of 1.6 kb and contained an open reading frame that predicted a polypeptide of 342 amino acids with 89.07% identity to FPS from other plants. The deduced amino acid sequence was dominated by hydrophobic regions and contained 2 highly conserved DDxxD motifs that are essential for proper functioning of FPS. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that FPS grouped with other composite families. Prediction of secondary structure and subcellular localization suggested that alpha helices made up 70% of the amino acids of the sequence.

Personal inhalation exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in urban and rural residents in a typical northern city in China

Personal inhalation exposure samples were collected and analyzed for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) for 126 selected volunteers during heating and non-heating seasons in a typical northern Chinese city, Taiyuan. Measured personal PAH exposure levels for the urban residents in the heating and non-heating seasons were 690 (540-1051) and 404 (266-544) ng/m(3) , respectively, while, for the rural residents, they were 770 (504-1071) and 312 (201-412) ng/m(3) , respectively. Thus, rural residents are exposed to lower PAH contamination in comparison with the urban residents in the non-heating seasons. In the heating season, personal PAH inhalation exposure levels were comparable between the urban and rural residents, in part owing to the large rate of residential solid fuel consumption in the rural area for household cooking and heating. The estimated incremental lifetime cancer risks (ILCR) due to PAH exposure in Taiyuan were 3.36 × 10(-5) and 2.39 × 10(-5) for the rural and urban residents, respectively, significantly higher than the literature-reported national average level, suggesting an urgent need of PAH pollution control to protect human health.

Characteristics of spermatogonial stem cells derived from neonatal porcine testis

The aim of this study was to isolate and characterise porcine spermatogonial stem cells (PSSCs). The putative porcine germline stem cells from testis were isolated successfully by an improving way of enrichment with lymphocyte separation medium (LSM). Results from RT-PCR analyses showed that PSSCs were positive for OCT4, SOX2, NANOG, PGP9.5, c-MYC, KEL4 and PRDM-14 which are multipotent stem cell markers. At the protein level, the results of immunofluorescence analyses showed that PSSCs were positive for OCT4, PGP9.5, SOX2 and CD29. We successfully differentiated these PSSCs into adipocytes and muscle cells and then defined their characteristics, including morphology, surface stem cell markers, and mechanical properties. But the experiment of teratoma formation was negative. The results indicated the PSSCs could be multipotent. Atomic force microscopy was used to characterise the morphological and mechanical properties of undifferentiated PSSCs, as well as the differentiated adipocytes and muscle cells, which could be potentially useful for distinguishing PSSCs from differentiated cells.

Haploidentical hematopoietic SCT may be superior to conventional consolidation/maintenance chemotherapy as post-remission therapy for high-risk adult ALL

Only 30% of high-risk adult ALL patients in their first complete remission (CR1) are able to receive an HLA-matched sibling stem cell transplant. The role of haploidentical hematopoietic SCT (haplo-HSCT) in post-remission therapy is not well established. Recently, we developed a novel protocol for unmanipulated haploidentical transplantation. In this study, we compared haplo-HSCT with conventional consolidation and maintenance chemotherapy in adult high-risk ALL patients. Between January 2000 and December 2012, 104 patients received conventional chemotherapy and 79 patients received haplo-HSCT. Patients who underwent haplo-HSCT had significantly improved 3-year OS (72.5% vs 26.6%; P<0.001), 3-year disease-free survival (DFS) (63.9% vs 21.1%; P<0.001) and 3-year relapse (18.7% vs 60.5%; P<0.001) rates. The non-relapse mortality (NRM) rate was not different between patients treated with haplo-HSCT vs chemotherapy (19.2% vs 14.4%; P=0.80). In multivariate analysis, the only factor associated with improved OS, better DFS and low risk of relapse was haplo-HSCT. The only factor associated with high NRM was enrollment before 2006. In conclusion, haplo-HSCT may be an option for adults with high-risk ALL in CR1 who do not have an HLA-matched donor.

Paediatric pseudoxanthoma elasticum with cardiovascular involvement

BACKGROUND

Pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) is characterized by aberrant mineralization of connective tissues, causing considerable morbidity and mortality. The disease is typically of late onset, the skin manifestations first being noted in the teens or later. Another aberrant mineralization disorder, generalized arterial calcification of infancy (GACI), is present at birth and can demonstrate a phenotypic overlap with PXE.

OBJECTIVES

A patient with PXE was noted to have skin findings as early as at 6 years of age, with cardiovascular involvement. The purpose of this study was to examine the genetic basis of this phenotypic presentation in the spectrum of PXE/GACI.

METHODS

The patient's genotype was studied by sequencing ABCC6 and ENPP1, genes known to be associated with PXE and/or GACI.

RESULTS

Screening of the ABCC6 gene revealed two pathogenetic mutations, p.R1141X and g.del23-29. Analysis of the ENPP1 gene failed to demonstrate the presence of mutations.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates the presence of cutaneous findings of PXE in an 8-year-old paediatric patient, with cardiovascular involvement, illustrating the phenotypic spectrum of PXE.

Involvement of p38 in signal switching from autophagy to apoptosis via the PERK/eIF2α/ATF4 axis in selenite-treated NB4 cells

Selenite has emerged as an optional chemotherapeutic agent for hematological malignancies. Autophagy and apoptosis are both engaged in selenite-induced cell death. In a previous report, we have identified heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) as a critical modulator of the balance between autophagy and apoptosis in selenite-treated leukemia cells. However, the mechanisms by which selenite mediates the crosstalk between autophagy and apoptosis remain largely unknown. Herein, we demonstrate that the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-related PERK/eIF2α/ATF4 pathway and p38 are core modules for the selenite-induced switch to apoptosis from autophagy. We found that selenite activated PERK and eIF2α/ATF4 downstream to promote apoptosis. During this progression, p38 was dissociated from PERK-inhibiting Hsp90 and became autophosphorylated. Then, activated p38 further enhanced the docking of activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) onto the CHOP (CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein) promoter via eIF2α to enhance apoptosis. We also found that activated p38 suppressed the phosphorylation of eIF4E that directed ATF4 to bind to the MAP1LC3B (microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3B) promoter. Because of the deactivation of eIF4E, the association of ATF4 with the MAP1LC3B promoter was inhibited, and autophagy was compromised. Intriguingly, p53 played important roles in mediating the p38-mediated regulation of eIF2α and eIF4E. When activated by p38, p53 induced the phosphorylation of eIF2α and the dephosphorylation of eIF4E, particularly in the nucleus where the ATF4 transcription factor was modulated, ultimately resulting in differential expression of CHOP and LC3. Moreover, selenite exhibited potent antitumor effects in vivo. In an NB4 cell xenograft model, selenite induced apoptosis and hampered autophagy. In addition, related signaling proteins demonstrated similar changes to those observed in vitro. These data suggest that selenite may be a candidate drug for leukemia therapy.

Serological and virological surveillance of avian influenza A virus H9N2 subtype in humans and poultry in Shanghai, China, between 2008 and 2010

We report the serological evidence of low-pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) H9N2 infection in an occupational poultry-exposed population and a general population. A serological survey of an occupational poultry-exposed population and a general population was conducted using a haemagglutinin-inhibiting (HI) assay in Shanghai, China, from January 2008 to December 2010. Evidence of higher anti-H9 antibodies was found in serum samples collected from poultry workers. During this period, 239 H9N2 avian influenza viruses (AIVs) were isolated from 9297 tracheal and cloacal paired specimens collected from the poultry in live poultry markets. In addition, a total of 733 influenza viruses were isolated from 1569 nasal and throat swabs collected from patients with influenza-like symptoms in a sentinel hospital, which include H3N2, H1N1, pandemic H1N1 and B, but no H9N2 virus was detected. These findings highlight the need for long-term surveillance of avian influenza viruses in occupational poultry-exposed workers.