[A clustered epidemic investigation of non-marital non-commercial heterosexual contact of HIV in Zhejiang Province]

Objective: To identify the transmission relationship between HIV infection cases the non-marital non-commercial heterosexual contact in Zhejiang Province. Methods: When HIV positive was informed during January 2020 to January 2022, the staff conducted an epidemiological investigation to collect cases information on sociodemographic characteristics, mobility information, past HIV testing history, high-risk sexual behaviors, sexual partners, and etcetera. At the same time, 6-8 ml of blood from the new diagnosis of people infected with HIV before antiviral treatment was collected to separate the bleeding plasma. pol gene was amplified by nucleic acid extraction and PCR, sequenced by Sequencer 5.0 software, and Cytoscape 3.6.0 software was used to draw HIV molecular transmission network. Results: From January 2020 to January 2022, 88 HIV infected individuals were found in Pujiang County, of which 74 were transmitted through heterosexual transmission, of which 31 were infected through non-marital non-commercial heterosexual contact. Preliminary case studies have found that three female cases have engaged in unprotected non-marital non-commercial heterosexual contact with one male case. Among the 4 infected individuals, 2 of their spouses tested positive for HIV antibodies. Molecular transmission network monitoring was carried out on 65 newly diagnosed cases of heterosexual transmission with acquired sequences, forming 9 transmission clusters. The largest cluster contained 10 cases. A total of 11 HIV-infected individuals were involved in this HIV cluster epidemic. They were 3 males and 8 females, all over 50 years old and were farmers or rural housewives. They were traced to 7 sexual partners (6 negatives of HIV, 1 undetected). Among the 18 respondents' sexual social network relationships, there were 6 couples, 8 permanent partners, and 3 temporary partners. Among 11 HIV infected individuals, there were 9 cases of non-marital non-commercial heterosexual transmission and 2 cases of intramarital transmission. The epidemiological association between 7 non-married non-commercial heterosexual partners and case 2 (56-year-old male farmer), 3 cases confirmed by epidemiological investigation and molecular transmission cluster results, 3 cases confirmed by molecular transmission cluster and epidemiological investigation results, and 1 case confirmed by epidemiological investigation results. Conclusions: The transmission mode of this cluster epidemic was to spread HIV through heterosexual sex with a male case as the core, then cause the transmission within marriage and between fixed sexual partners. The combination of epidemiological investigation and molecular transmission network traceability survey supports the conclusion of this study.

[Analysis of characteristics of drug resistance gene mutation in HBV RT region of hepatitis B infected patients]

Objective: This article investigated the clinical characteristics and distribution of drug resistance mutation sites in HBV RT region of hepatitis B infected patients. Methods: Retrospective analysis was made on 1 948 patients with HBV infection, who had been tested for NAs resistance mutation and had a medical history of NAs in the Laboratory Department of the Fifth Medical Center of the PLA General Hospital from January 2020 to December 2021. Basic clinical information and drug resistance related mutation information were recorded. Meanwhile, the serological index data of hepatitis B were collected. Drug resistance gene mutant group and non-mutated group were grouped according to whether the drug resistance genes had a mutation in HBV RT region, and the clinical characteristics and genotype distribution of the two groups were statistically analyzed. The pattern of drug resistance gene mutation, number of mutation sites, drug resistance type and mutation of NAs resistance-related sites were analyzed in 917 patients with drug resistance gene mutation in HBV RT region. χ² Inspection was used for counting data. Meanwhile, two independent samples t-test and Wilcoxon rank sum test were used for measurement data. Results: Among the 1 948 patients with chronic HBV infection, 917 patients had drug resistance gene mutation in RT region (47.07%). The proportion of patients with acute hepatitis B and CHB in HBV RT resistance gene mutant group was lower than that in the non-mutated group, while the proportion of patients with HBV-related cirrhosis was higher than that in the non-mutated group, these differences were statistically significant. Compared with the non-mutated group in HBV RT region, the age, the positive rates of HBeAg and HBV DNA, and HBV DNA load of these patients were increased in drug resistance gene mutant group, these differences were statistically significant. Genotypes of patients in both groups were dominated by C, followed by B and D. The proportion of patients with genotype C in HBV RT drug resistance gene mutant group was higher than that of non-mutated group, the difference was statistically significant. There were 53 gene mutation patterns in 917 patients with drug resistance gene mutation in HBV RT region, and the main pattern was rtL180M+rtM204V+rtS202G (9.70%). The mutation sites were dominated by 3 (20.74%). There were 5 types of drug resistance, LAM+Ldt (21.25%) was the most. Among the 18 sites that were clearly associated with LAM, ADV, ETV and Ldt resistance in the HBV RT region, 14 sites were mutated, and the most common mutation sites were rtL180M, rtM204V, rtM204 and rtS202G. what's more, the proportion of patients with NAs drug resistance was LAM>Ldt>ETV>ADV. Conclusion: In order to prevent adverse consequences of this study such as disease recurrence or disease progression caused by HBV drug resistance, HBV infected patients, who have long-term use of NAs antiviral therapy, should monitor the level of HBV DNA and drug resistance genes in HBV RT region in order to optimize the treatment plan in time or guide individualized treatment.

[Tumor cell-based glycolytic metabolism and single-cell sequencing of urinary exfoliated cells for the diagnosis and molecular profiling of urothelial carcinoma]

Objective: To explore the diagnostic values of HK2 testing and single-cell sequencing in the urothelial carcinoma (UC). Methods: The qualified urine specimens of 265 suspected UC patients or postoperative patients from the Cancer Hospital of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China were collected. Both exfoliative cytology and HK2 testing were performed on clinically suspected UC or postoperative patients. The performance of diagnostic cytology and HK2, including consistency, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value, was evaluated based on histopathological, clinical and imaging diagnosis. Isolated HK2 metabolically abnormal cells were subject to single-cell sequencing to verify the reliability of HK2 detection performance and to explore the molecular characteristics of UC. Results: The concordance rate of HK2 testing and cytology for detecting UC was 90.3% (102/113, Kappa=0.604). Compared with cytology, the sensitivity of HK2 was significantly higher (85.2% versus 75.6%, P=0.024). The detection sensitivity of combined HK2 testing and cytology was increased to 91.1%. HK2 testing was significantly more sensitive than cytology for diagnosing UC in the upper urinary tract (81.8% versus 65.5%, P=0.022). It was also more sensitive than cytology for diagnosing early-stage UC (82.6% versus 69.5%, P=0.375) and low-grade UC (69.6% versus 47.8%, P=0.125). Single-cell sequencing of the ten patients, whose samples were positive for HK2, demonstrated highly concordant copy number variations (CNVs) in tumor cells from the same UC patient, with heterogeneity in CNV profiles among different patients. Deletion of chromosome 8p was found in 3 of the 4 urine samples of renal pelvis UC. The 2 patients with benign lesions had no CNVs in all sequenced cells. Conclusions: The test for abnormal urinary glycolytic HK2 metabolism can assist urine cytology to improve the sensitivity of UC diagnosis, and it provides a novel and reliable approach for early detection of upper urinary tract UC and lower grade UC. Meanwhile, this study has preliminarily revealed the feasibility of single-cell sequencing in urinary samples, which is expected to improve the diagnostic specificity of HK2 testing.

Dirac-cone-like electronic states on nematic antiferromagnetic FeSe and FeTe

We investigate the Dirac-cone-like (DCL) topological electronic properties of nematic-like antiferromagnetic (AFM) states of monolayer FeSe and FeTe designed artificially through first-principles calculations and Wannier-function-based tight-binding (WFTB) method. Our calculations reveal most of them have a pair of DCL bands on the Γ-Xline in the Brillouin zone (BZ) near the Fermi level and open a gap of about 20 meV in the absence and presence of spin-orbit coupling (SOC), respectively, similar to the lowest-energy pair-checkerboard AFM FeSe. We further confirm that they are weak topological insulators based on nonzeroZ₂and fragile surface states, which are calculated by the WFTB method. For FeSe and FeTe in pair-checkerboard AFM states, we find that the in-plane compression strain in a certain range can give rise to another pair of DCL bands located on the Γ-X' line in the BZ. In addition, the magnetic moments, energies, and Fe-Se/Te distances for various nematic-like AFM configurations are presented. These calculations the combining effect of magnetism and topology in a single material and the understanding of the superconducting phenomena in iron-based FeSe and FeTe.

Magnetic field effect on topological properties of Dirac semimetals PdTe2/PtTe2/PtSe2

We investigated magnetic field effect on the topological properties of transition metal dichalcogenide Dirac semimetals (DSMs) PdTe₂/PtTe₂/PtSe₂based on Wannier-function-based tight-binding (WFTB) model obtained from first-principles calculations. The DSMs PdTe₂/PtTe₂/PtSe₂undergo a transition from DSMs into Weyl semimetals with four pairs of Weyl points (WPs) in the entire Brillouin zone by splitting Dirac points under external magnetic fieldB. The positions and energies of WPs vary linearly with the strength of theBfield under thec-axis magnetic fieldB. Under thea- andb-axisBfield, however, the positions of magnetic-field-inducing WPs deviate slightly from thecaxis, and theirk_zcoordinates and energies change in a parabolic-like curve with the increasingBfield. However, the system opens an axial gap on theA-Γ axis, and the gap changes with the direction of theBfield when the out ofc-axisBfield is applied. When we further apply the magnetic field in theac,bc, andabplanes, the results are more diverse compared to the axial magnetic field. Under theacandbcplaneBfield, thek_zand energies of WPs within angleθ= [0°, 90°] andθ= [90°, 180°] are mirror symmetrically distributed. The distribution of WPs shows broken rotational symmetry under theabplaneBfield due to the difference of non-diagonal part of Hamiltonian. Our theoretical findings can provide a useful guideline for the applications of DSM materials under external magnetic field in the future topological electronic devices.

[The expression and clinical significance of serum soluble programmed cell death ligand-1 in adult patients with community-acquired pneumonia]

To investigate the clinical significance of serum soluble programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) in adult patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). A total of 44 CAP patients, 54 severe CAP patients and 30 healthy volunteers were recruited in this study. Serum soluble PD-L1 were detected. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were used to assess the influence of multiple clinical variables on prognosis. Serum soluble PD-L1 level in severe CAP group was 98.20(57.94, 128.90) ng/L, which was significantly higher than that in the CAP group [59.32(33.55, 92.58) ng/L] and healthy controls [20.44(12.15, 36.20) ng/L] (all P<0.001). PD-L1 level was positively correlated with CRUB-65(r=0.481, P<0.001) and the pneumonia severity index (PSI) score (r=0.442, P<0.001). Univariate regression analysis showed that CURB-65 (HR=2.544, 95%CI 1.324-4.889, P=0.005), PSI score (HR=1.036, 95%CI 1.012-1.061, P=0.004), soluble PD-L1(HR=1.013, 95%CI 1.001-1.026, P=0.041) were risk factors of mortality during hospitalization. Multivariate regression analysis suggested that PSI score (HR=1.042, 95%CI 1.012-1.073, P=0.005), soluble PD-L1 (HR=1.011, 95%CI 1.002-1.071, P=0.020) were independent predictors for mortality risk in CAP patients. CAP patients with soluble PD-L1≥98.20 ng/L had a significantly lower survival rate than those with soluble PD-L1<98.20 ng/L (P=0.033). In conclusion, this study indicates that serum soluble PD-L1 level in CAP patients is correlated with the survival prognosis.

Comparison of clinical diagnostic value of spiral CT with different dose in patients with early-stage peripheral lung cancer

PURPOSE

To compare the clinical diagnostic value of spiral CT scan with different dose in patients with early-stage peripheral lung cancer.

METHODS

A total of 163 cases of patients with early-stage peripheral lung cancer who came to People's Hospital of Rizhao for treatment from June 2014 to January 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. A total of 78 cases of patients who received low-dose CT scanning were the low-dose group, another 84 cases of patients who received routine dose CT scanning were the routine dose group. Multislice helical CT (MSCT) scanning was performed in both groups, with tube voltage of 120 kV. Tube current was 25 m A in the low-dose group and 250 m A in the routine dose group. In addition, a total of 80 patients with lobar pneumonia were added as the control group of diagnostic sensitivity, specificity and accuracy. Pathological diagnosis was taken as the gold standard to compare the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of the two groups.

RESULTS

The image quality, nodules and signs of the two groups were compared, and the results of radiation dose of the two groups were compared. The diagnostic sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of the low-dose group were 82.05%, 87.50% and 84.81%, respectively. The diagnostic sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of the routine dose group were 85.71%, 86.25% and 85.97%, respectively. The diagnostic value of the two groups was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). However, the radiation dose in the low-dose group was significantly lower than that in the routine group.

CONCLUSION

Low-dose MSCT scanning can meet the clinical requirements for imaging diagnosis of peripheral lung cancer, and can reduce the radiation dose of patients.

[Investigation and analysis of occupational exposure factors in an enterprise processing waste electronic products]

Objective: To identify and to analyze occupational exposure factors generating from production process in an enterprise processing waste electronic products, to provide scientific evidences for protection measures. Methods: From June to October 2017, seven waste electrical and electronic product processing enterprises in a province were selected as the research objects. These seven enterprises all include refrigerator dismantling line, washing machine dismantling line, air conditioning dismantling line, TV/computer dismantling line, CRT cutting line. Some enterprises also have circuit board line, wet precious metal recycling line, plastic crushing line, plastic granulating line and other deep processing operations such as precious metal recycling of waste circuit board, waste plastic crushing and recycling. The data were collected by the methods of occupational health field investigation and occupational health testing, and the exposure level of occupational hazard factors was evaluated by combining the effect of the protective facilities of occupational health engineering. Results: the main occupational hazard factors of waste electrical and electronic products treatment enterprises were dust, noise, heavy metal, flame retardant, mercury, fluoride, cyanide, sodium hydroxide, hydrochloric acid and nitric acid. 145 effective samples were obtained from heavy metal sampling, including 102 individual samples and 43 fixed-point long-term samples. Among them, 8 samples lead exceeded the standard, all occurred in the TV dismantling line. In addition to flame retardants, plasticizers, insecticides and other components can be detected by high-throughput qualitative analysis using liquid chromatography-time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Finally, 123 effective 8-h equivalent sound level values were obtained by individual noise detection, 86 of which exceeded the standard, with a rate of 69.9%. Conclusion: there are potential occupational hazards in the process of dismantling waste electrical and electronic products.

[Investigation of mental workload and related factors among nurses from tertiary hospitals in Shandong]

Objective: To investigate mental workload among nurses from tertiary hospitals in Shandong Province, and analyze various factors related to mental workload. Methods: From May to July 2019, a cluster sampling method was used to select 8255 nurses from 20 third class a general hospitals in 16 cities of Shandong Province as the research objects, and 8159 valid questionnaires were collected. The general information and psychological load of nurses were investigated by general information questionnaire and task load index scale. The measurement data were expressed in percentage (%) ; the nurses' psychological load scores were in accordance with normal distribution, and the differences between groups were compared by t-test or ANOVA; the related influencing factors of nurses' psychological load were analyzed by multiple stepwise regression analysis. Results: The average scores of mental workload among nurses was 77.83 (SD=12.88) . Time demands and physical demands were the two highest rated dimensions of mental workload. the average scores were 90.77 (SD=12.47) and 79.92 (SD=15.23) . Multiple stepwise regression analysis showed that Satisfaction with income, monthly average night shift and professional titles were the significant predictors of mental workload (R(2)=0.08) . Conclusion: Nurses with higher psychological load, lower income satisfaction, higher number of night shifts per month and lower title have higher psychological load.

[Deleted in lymphocytic leukemia 1 promoted proliferation and apoptosis of nephroblastoma cells through regulating miR-513a-5p and RANBP2 pathway]

Objective: To study the regulatory effects and mechanisms of deleted in lymphocytic leukemia 1 (DLEU1), microRNA-513a-5p (miR-513a-5p), and RAN binding protein 2 (RANBP2) in nephroblastoma. Methods: The GHINK-1 cells were transfected with pcDNA (pcDNA group), pcDNA-DLEU1 (pcDNA-DLEU1 group), miR-NC (miR-NC group), miR-513a-5p mimics (miR-513a-5p group), pcDNA-RANBP2 (pcDNA-RANBP2 group), pcDNA-DLEU1 and miR-NC (pcDNA-DLEU1+ miR-NC group), pcDNA-DLEU1 and miR-513a-5p mimics (pcDNA-DLEU1+ miR-513a-5p group), miR-513a-5p mimics and pcDNA (miR-513a-5p+ pcDNA group), miR-513a-5p mimics and pcDNA-RANBP2 (miR-513a-5p + pcDNA-RANBP2 group). Real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to detect the expressions of DLEU1, miR-513a-5p, RANBP2 in nephroblastoma tissues, normal adjacent tissues, normal kidney cell HK2, and hemangioblastoma cell GHINK-1. Western blot was used to detect the expressions of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), B cell lymphoma/leukemia-2 (Bcl-2) and Bcl-2 related X (Bax). Cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) was used to detect the cell survival rate. Flow cytometry was used to detect the apoptosis rate. Dual luciferase report test was used to detect the luciferase activity of cells. Results: The expression levels of DLEU1, miR-513a-5p and RANBP2 in adjacent tissues were 1.02±0.08, 1.01±0.06, 1.00±0.05, respectively, significantly lower than 5.16±0.24, 0.23±0.02, 1.67±0.09 in nephroblasts tumor tissues (P<0.05). Their expression levels in HK2 cells were 1.00±0.06, 1.00±0.08, 1.02±0.09, respectively, significantly lower than 3.15±0.21, 0.18±0.01, 1.54±0.10 in GHINK-1 cells (P<0.05). Overexpression of DLEU1 significantly reduced the apoptosis rate (7.35±0.41 vs 12.35±1.12, P<0.05). Overexpression of RANBP2 significantly reduced the apoptosis rate (8.89±0.48 vs 12.64±1.12, P<0.05). Compared with the miR-NC group (1.01±0.06, 0.99±0.06), the luciferase activity of DLEU1-WT (0.43±0.04) and RANBP2-WT (0.61±0.07) in miR-513a-5p group were significantly reduced (P<0.05). Compared with anti-miR-NC group (0.99±0.07, 0.98±0.05), the luciferase activity of DLEU1-WT (1.34±0.11) and RANBP2-WT (1.39 ±0.13) in anti-miR-513a-5p group was significantly increased (P<0.05). Simultaneous overexpression of pcDNA-DLEU1 and miR-513a-5p in GHINK-1 cells significantly reduced the apoptosis rate (11.34±1.03 vs 8.51±0.69, P<0.05). Simultaneous overexpression of miR-513a-5p and RANBP2 in GHINK-1 cells significantly reduced the apoptosis rate (9.96±0.72 vs 15.94±1.00, P<0.05). Conclusions: The long-chain non-coding RNA (lncRNA) DLEU1 can promote the proliferation and inhibit the apoptosis of nephroblastoma cells. The mechanism is related to the targeted regulation of miR-513a-5p and RANBP2 function, which will provide theoretical support for the nephroblastoma treatment.

[Analysis on drug sensitivity spectrum of 167 multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis in China]

Objective: To investigate the drugs-sensitivity spectrum of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in China and provide a scientific evidence for the drug selection in clinical therapy and the control of MDR-TB. Methods: A total of 167 strains of MDR-TB were included in this study. Every strain was genotyped by lysX gene sequencing and their sensitivity to 13 different anti-TB drugs was tested by using MicroDST(TM) and BACTEC(TM) MGIT 960(TM) liquid-culturing method. The association between drug resistance and genotypes as well as cross drug resistance was also analyzed. The results were analyzed by means of the comparison of enumeration data between two groups with χ(2) test. Results: The overall resistance rate of 167 MDR-TB strains to 11 anti-TB drugs, except isoniazide and rifampicin, was 95.81%, the rates of pre-extensive drug-resistance (pre-XDR) and extensive drug-resistance were 31.14%(52/167) and 6.59% (11/167), respectively. The streptomycin resistance rate of Beijing genotypes was significantly higher than that of the non-Beijing genotypes ( χ(2)=30.682, P<0.05), while the pre-XDR proportion in Beijing genotypes was lower than that in non-Beijing genotypes (χ(2)=5.332, P<0.05). The resistance rates of Ofloxacin and Pyrazinamide in the modern Beijing genotype were significantly higher than those in classical ones (χ(2)=4.105 and χ(2)=3.912, P<0.05). In addition, the cross-resistance rate to rifampicin and rifabutin was 86.23%. A significant difference in drug-resistance rate to rifabutin was seen among groups with different levels of rifampicin resistance (χ(2)=45.912, P<0.05). There was positive correlation not only between ofloxac resistance and moxifloxac resistance, but also between amikacin resistance and kanamycin resistance, with the coefficient of 0.87 and 0.91, respectively. Conclusions: In this study, we observed that there were high incidences of the resistance to 11 anti-TB drugs in 167 clinical MDR-TB strains and the cross resistance phenomena between drugs of the same type were quite serious. The majority of MDR-TB strains belonged to Beijing genotype, which was highly associated with streptomycin resistance.

Venturiales

Members of Venturiales (Dothideomycetes) are widely distributed, and comprise saprobes, as well as plant, human and animal pathogens. In spite of their economic importance, the general lack of cultures and DNA data has resulted in taxa being poorly resolved. In the present study five loci, ITS, LSU rDNA, tef1, tub2 and rpb2 are used for analysing 115 venturialean taxa representing 30 genera in three families in the current classification of Venturiales. Based on the multigene phylogenetic analysis, morphological and ecological characteristics, one new family, Cylindrosympodiaceae, and eight new genera are described, namely Bellamyces, Fagicola, Fraxinicola, Fuscohilum,Neofusicladium, Parafusicladium, Pinaceicola and Sterila. In addition, 12 species are described as new to science, and 41 new combinations are proposed. The taxonomic status of 153 species have been re-evaluated with 20 species excluded from Venturiales. Based on this revision of Venturiales, morphological characteristics such as conidial arrangement (solitary or in chains) or conidiogenesis (blastic-solitary, sympodial or annellidic), proved to be significant at generic level. Venturia as currently defined represents a generic complex. Furthermore, plant pathogens appear more terminal in phylogenetic analyses within Venturiaceae and Sympoventuriaceae, suggesting that the ancestral state of Venturiales is most likely saprobic.

MicroRNA-124 regulates lactate transportation in the muscle of largemouth bass (micropterus salmoides) under hypoxia by targeting MCT1

Carbohydrate metabolism switches from aerobic to anaerobic (glycolysis) to supply energy in response to acute hypoxic stress. Acute hypoxic stress with dissolved oxygen (DO) levels of 1.2 ± 0.1 mg/L for 24 h and 12 h re-oxygenation was used to investigate the response of the anaerobic glycolytic pathway in Micropterus salmoides muscle. The results showed that the glucose concentration was significantly lower in muscle, while the lactic acid and pyruvic acid concentrations tended to increase during hypoxic stress. No significant difference was observed in muscle glycogen, and ATP content fluctuated significantly. The activities of gluconeogenesis-related enzymes were slightly elevated, such as phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK). The activities of the glycolytic enzymes increased after the induction of hypoxia, such as hexokinase (HK), pyruvate kinase (PK), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Curiously, phosphofructokinase (PFK) activity was significantly down-regulated within 4 h during hypoxia, although these effects were transient, and most indices returned to control levels after 12 h of re-oxygenation. Upregulated hif-1α, ampkα, hk, glut1, and ldh mRNA expression suggested that carbohydrate metabolism was reprogrammed under hypoxia. Lactate transport was regulated by miR-124-5p according to quantitative polymerase chain reaction and dual luciferase reporter assays. Our findings provide new insight into the molecular regulatory mechanism of hypoxia in Micropterus salmoides muscle.

Relationship between Electrical Conductivity and Chemical Content of Rat Skeletal Muscle Impregnating Solution and Postmortem Interval

Abstract

Objective To study the mechanism of change of the electrical conductivity （EC） of rat skeletal muscle impregnating solution that occurs with the change of postmortem interval （PMI）. Methods Healthy Sprague-Dawley rats were killed and kept at about 25 ℃. Skeletal muscles were extracted at different PMI--immediate （0 d）, 1 d, 2 d, 3 d, 4 d, 5 d, 6 d, and 7 d, then mixed with deionized water to make impregnating solution with a mass concentration of 0.1 g/mL. The solution's EC and nine common chemicals in it, such as potassium ion, calcium ion, and chloride ion, were determined. Results EC increased gradually with the extending of PMI （P=0.024） during the 7 days after the rats' death. The content of uric acid （P=0.032）, urea nitrogen （P=0.013） and phosphorus （P=0.022） also increased during the extension. However, the content of magnesium ions decreased with extending of PMI （P=0.047）. The correlation between potassium ion, sodium ion, chlorine ion, calcium ion, creatinine and PMI were weak （P>0.05）. Conclusion The molecular basis of skeletal muscle EC change in rats after their death is the changes of uric acid, urea nitrogen, inorganic phosphorus and other chemical components. Furthermore, combine use of various indicators can improve the accuracy of the EC method to infer PMI.

Relationship between Electrical Conductivity and Related Biochemical Indicators of Rat Cerebrum Tissues and Postmortem Interval

Abstract

Objective To explore the relationship between the electrical conductivity （EC） and biochemical indicators of rat cerebrum tissues and postmortem intervals （PMIs） and discuss the mechanism of applying EC to infer PMI. Methods Forty healthy Sprague-Dawley rats were sacrificed and stored in an environment of about 25 ℃. The whole cerebrum tissues of rats were removed respectively at different PMIs of 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 d, and then made into homogenized impregnation solution. The EC and related biochemical indicators （potassium, sodium, chloride, calcium, inorganic phosphorus, magnesium, uric acid, urea nitrogen and creatinine） in cerebrum tissue impregnation solution were determined, and the relationships among EC in impregnation solution, related biochemical indicators and PMI were analyzed. Results The EC in cerebrum tissues increased gradually with the extension of PMI, and the content of uric acid, urea nitrogen and inorganic phosphorus in its impregnation solution also increased gradually with the extension of PMI. The correlation of EC, uric acid, urea nitrogen, and inorganic phosphorus with PMI was relatively good （R² was 0.95-0.99）, and there was a linear correlation between the content change of uric acid, urea nitrogen, inorganic phosphorus and EC （R² was 0.97-0.99）. The changes of the other 6 kinds of biochemical indicators with the extension of PMI within 7 d after the rats' death were non-significant （P>0.05）. Conclusion The correlation between EC in cerebrum tissues, uric acid, urea nitrogen, inorganic phosphorus and PMI were relatively good, and combining various indicators can also improve the accuracy of PMI estimation.

Analysis of 28S rRNA and COⅠ Gene Sequence of Nine Necrophagous Calliphorid Flies from Luoyang

Abstract

Objective To assess the feasibility of using 28S ribosomal RNA （28S rRNA） and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit Ⅰ （COⅠ） gene sequences of nine necrophagous Calliphorid flies for the identification of common necrophagous Calliphorid flies, and to provide technical support for postmortem interval （PMI） estimation. Methods Twenty-three Calliphorid flies were collected and identified morphologically, and DNA were extracted from legs. The gene fragments of 28S rRNA and COⅠ were amplified and sequenced, then the sequence alignment was performed with BLAST. The composition of obtained sequences was analyzed and evolutionary divergence rate between species and intraspecies were established. The phylogeny tree was constructed with neighbor-joining method. Results The 23 necrophagous Calliphorid flies were identified to 9 species of 5 genera. The 715 bp from 28S rRNA and 637 bp from COⅠ gene were obtained and the online BLAST result showed more than 99% of similarity. The phylogeny tree showed that the necrophagous flies could cluster well into 9 groups, which was consistent with morphological identification results. The intraspecific difference in 28S rRNA was 0 and the interspecific difference was 0.001-0.033. The intraspecific difference in COⅠ was 0-0.008 and the interspecific difference was 0.006-0.101. Conclusion Combined use of 28S rRNA and COⅠ gene sequence fragments can effectively identify the nine Calliphorid flies in this study. However, for closely related blowfly species, more genetic markers should be explored and used in combination in future.

[Clinical study of brush liquid-based cytology combined with automatic immunohistochemistry in the classification and diagnosis of lung cancer]

Objective: To explore the feasibility of bronchoscopic brushing liquid-based slide cytology combined with automatic immunocytochemistry (ICC) for pathological typing of lung cancer. Methods: A liquid-based thin-prep was prepared from 171 bronchoscopic brushing specimens of patients with pulmonary lesions. ICC was detected by automatic immunohistochemistry instrument while cytomorphological diagnosis was made. The results were compared with those of histopathological diagnosis. Results: Among 171 patients, 130 (76.0%) could be classified by cell morphology alone, including 31 squamous cell carcinomas, 44 adenocarcinomas and 55 small cell carcinomas; 162 (94.7%) could be classified by cell morphology combined with ICC, including 38 squamous cell carcinomas, 61 adenocarcinomas and 63 small cell carcinomas (P<0.001). According to the gold standard of histopathological diagnosis, the coincidence rate of cytomorphology combined with ICC was higher than that of cell morphology alone. The coincidence rate of squamous cell carcinoma was increased from 85.2% to 97.1% (P=0.093), adenocarcinoma from 92.5% to 98.0% (P<0.001), and small cell carcinoma from 96.1% to 98.3% (P=0.465). Conclusion: The combination of liquid-based thin-prep cytology and automatic immunohistochemistry can effectively improve the accuracy of pathological typing of brushing specimens under fiberoptic bronchoscopy, and provide more objective diagnostic results for clinical treatment.

Response of AMP-activated protein kinase and lactate metabolism of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) under acute hypoxic stress

To study adaptation of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) to hypoxic stress, we investigated physiological responses and lactate metabolism of the fish under acute hypoxia. The objectives of this study were to (a) observe changes in glucose, glycogen, and lactate content; (b) detect the activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in serum, brain, heart, and liver tissues; and (c) quantify the dynamic gene expression of AMP activated protein kinase alpha (AMPKα), hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α), monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1), monocarboxylate transporter 4 (MCT4), and lactate dehydrogenase-a (LDHa) following exposure to hypoxia. The fish were subjected to two hypoxia stresses (dissolved oxygen [DO] 1.20 ± 0.2 mg/L and 3.50 ± 0.3 mg/L, respectively) for 24 h. Our results showed that hypoxic stress significantly increased the decomposition of liver glycogen and significantly increased the concentration of blood glucose; however, the muscle glycogen content was not significantly decreased, which indicates that liver glycogen was the main energy source under acute hypoxia. Moreover, hypoxia led to accumulation of a large amount of lactic acid in tissues, possibly due to the activity of lactic acid dehydrogenase, but this process was delayed in the heart and brain relative to the liver. Additionally, hypoxia induced the expression of AMPKα, HIF-1α, MCT1, MCT4, and LDHa, suggesting that glycometabolism had switched from aerobic to anaerobic. Our results contribute to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of the response to hypoxia in largemouth bass.

Survival prediction with score model based on clinical characteristics in advanced HCC patients receiving oxaliplatin-containing regimens

A score model based on clinical characteristics in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients treated with systemic chemotherapy of oxaliplatin-containing regimens was established to evaluate progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Thirty HCC patients eligible for radical resection were involved in the retrospective study, and these were divided into the good response group (complete response (CR)/partial response (PR) and the poor response group (stable disease (SD)/progression disease (PD). The median PFS and OS were compared in the two groups. PFS and OS combined with clinical characteristics were evaluated by univariate and multivariate analyses. The score model was defined with 1 score for each characteristic, and score model cut-off values were determined by the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) which describes treatment response. The median PFS was 10 and 2 months (p<0.001), and the median OS was 13 and 4 months (p=0.011) for the CR/PR and SD/PD groups, respectively. The score of 1 was the optimal cutoff value, with sensitivity ranging from 52.6 to 63.2% and specificity from 81.8 to 100% (AUC= 0.773, p=0.014). The median PFS for good and poor response groups was 9 months and 1month (p<0.001) and the median OS was 22 and 3months at p<0.001, respectively. Patients with scores above 1 had poor response, with median 3 months OS and 1 month PFS, and patients with scores of 0 and 1 established good response, with median 22 months OS and 9 months PFS, respectively.

Relationship between Early Postmortem Interval and Electrical Conductivity of Rat Liver, Spleen and Kidney after Death in Rats

OBJECTIVES

To determine the electrical conductivity （EC） of the liver, spleen and kidney of rats at different postmortem intervals （PMIs） within 24 hours for investigating the relationship between EC of different organs and early PMI.

METHODS

Totally 45 SD rats were sacrificed by cervical dislocation and kept at a constant temperature of 25 ℃. Tissues were taken from the liver, spleen, and kidney of rats at 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21 and 24 h. Impregnating solution with a mass concentration 0.1 g/mL was prepared using deionized water. The EC value of impregnating solution with different organs was separately determined. The regression equations of EC and PMI for different organs were established, respectively. The relationship between EC of different organs and early PMI was analysed in deceased rats.

RESULTS

The relationship between PMI and EC of the liver and spleen was well fitted with the linear equation. The liver showed the best fitting degree followed by the spleen, while the EC of the kidney showed no significant changes within 24 h. There was a good linear relationship between early PMI and the EC of the liver and spleen.

CONCLUSIONS

A good linear relationship between early PMI and the EC of the liver and spleen can be found in rats after death, which can be used for the early PMI estimation.

[Molecular Identification of Sarcosaphagous Flies in Luoyang Based on 28S rRNA Gene Sequence]

OBJECTIVES

To detect 715 bp sequence of 28S rRNA in sarcosaphagous flies, and to identify their common species for solving the problem of morphological identification, as well as providing technical support for postmortem interval （PMI） estimation.

METHODS

Twenty-nine common sarcosaphagous flies were collected in Luoyang and classified by morphological characteristics. The DNA was extracted from the fly's legs by Chelex-100 method and then the fragments of 28S rRNA were amplified and sequenced. The results were compared with twenty-eight corresponding fly species of GenBank and EMBL databases. All the sequences were analyzed by MEGA7.0 software, and sequence alignment was performed by the searching in BLAST. The nucleotide composition was analysed, and the intraspecific and interspecific genetic distance and phylogenetic tree were established.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine sarcosaphagous flies were classified into 6 species of 5 genera, 3 families by morphological characteristics. In the obtained 715 bp sequence of 28S rRNA, the comparison result of online BLAST showed that the similarity was 100%. Five species were well clustered by a phylogenetic tree. Between different groups, the interspecific and intraspecific differences ranged from 0.007 to 0.045 and 0 to 0.001, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The 28S rRNA target gene sequences shows a good identification capability, which can be a new genetic marker for the identification of sarcosaphagous flies.

[Relationship between Electrical Conductivity and Decomposition Rate of Rat Postmortem Skeletal Muscle]

OBJECTIVES

To analyze the relationship among electrical conductivity （EC）, total volatile basic nitrogen （TVB-N）, which is an index of decomposition rate for meat production, and postmortem interval （PMI）. To explore the feasibility of EC as an index of cadaveric skeletal muscle decomposition rate and lay the foundation for PMI estimation.

METHODS

Healthy Sprague-Dawley rats were sacrificed by cervical vertebrae dislocation and kept at 28 ℃. Muscle of rear limbs was removed at different PMI, homogenized in deionized water and then skeletal extraction liquid of mass concentration 0.1 g/mL was prepared. EC and TVB-N of extraction liquid were separately determined. The correlation between EC (x₁) and TVB-N (x₂) was analyzed, and their regression function was established. The relationship between PMI (y) and these two parameters were studied, and their regression functions were separately established.

RESULTS

The change trends of EC and TVB-N of skeletal extraction liquid at different PMI were almost the same, and there was a linear positive correlation between them. The regression equation was x₂=0.14x₁-164.91(R²=0.982). EC and TVB-N of skeletal muscle changed significantly with PMI, and the regression functions were y=19.38x₁³-370.68x₁²+2 526.03 x₁-717.06(R²=0.994), and y=2.56x₂³-48.39x₂²+330.60x₂-255.04(R²=0.997), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

EC and TVB-N of rat postmortem skeletal muscle show similar change trends, which can be used as an index for decomposition rate of cadaveric skeletal muscle and provide a method for further study of late PMI estimation.

Acute hypoxic stress: Effect on blood parameters, antioxidant enzymes, and expression of HIF-1alpha and GLUT-1 genes in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides)

Dissolved oxygen (DO) plays a crucial role in survival, growth, and normal physiological functions of aquatic organisms. Nevertheless, the mechanisms involved in hypoxic stress and adaptation have not been fully elucidated in Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). To reveal the effect of acute hypoxia on Largemouth bass, we simulated acute hypoxia (DO: 1.2 ± 0.2 mg/L) in the laboratory and analyzed physiological parameters (RBCs, Hb, SOD, CAT, NA⁺/K⁺-ATPase, GPx, and MDA) and gene expression (HIF-1alpha and GLUT-1) in Largemouth bass exposed to various durations of acute hypoxia (0, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 h). Our results indicated that acute hypoxic exposure significantly increased RBCs but decreased Hb. In addition, antioxidant enzyme activity was enhanced significantly in the liver and muscles at the initial stage of acute hypoxic exposure, but decreased significantly in gills during the entire process of hypoxic exposure. Furthermore, the expression levels of HIF-1alpha and GLUT-1 mRNA were significantly up-regulated in Largemouth bass under acute hypoxic exposure. In conclusion, our study provides a valuable basis for further elucidation of hypoxic adaptation and facilitates husbandry for an economically valuable species.

[Effects of overexpression of human tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 on the inflammatory response in rats with myocardial infarction and related mechanisms]

Objective: To observe the effects of recombinant adenovirus with human tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1(Ad-hTIMP-1) on the inflammatory response in rats with myocardial infarction (MI) and explore the related mechanisms. Methods: The male Wistar rats were randomly divided into sham-operated group, saline group, Ad-Track group and Ad-hTIMP-1 group according to the random number table (n=8 each group). MI was induced by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery and MI rats were injected with saline, Ad-Track and Ad-hTIMP-1, respectively. Sham-operated rats received similar surgical procedure without ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. After 4 weeks, the cardiac function was measured by echocardiography, then rats were sacrificed and hearts were removed for morphological and biological analysis. The morphology of myocardial tissue in each group was detected by HE staining and Masson staining. The mRNA expressions of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10 and C-reactive protein(CRP) were detected by real-time PCR. Immune histochemical staining was performed to observe the protein expression levels of IL-6 and CRP. Results: (1) Left ventricular end systolic dimension derived from echocardiography was increased in saline group ((5.10±0.72) mm) and Ad-Track group ((4.88±0.64) mm) compared to sham-operated group ((4.25±0.46) mm), which was reduced in Ad-hTIMP-1 group ((4.13±0.35) mm, all P<0.05). The left ventricular ejection fraction was (72.46±5.74)%, (64.27±8.52)%, (64.65±3.90)%, and (71.55±6.95)%, the fractional shortening was (36.90±4.97)%, (29.03±3.40)%, (30.95±2.51)%, and (36.31±5.68)% in sham-operated group, saline group, Ad-Track group and Ad-hTIMP-1 group, respectively. The left ventricular ejection fraction and fractional shortening in saline group and Ad-Track group were lower than those in sham-operated group and Ad-hTIMP-1 group (all P<0.05). (2) Necrosis of myocardial cells was not found and a small amount of immune cell infiltration and interstitial fibrosis were observed on HE and Masson stained myocardial sections of Ad-hTIMP-1 group. (3) Real-time PCR showed that mRNA expressions of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10 and CRP were lower in Ad-hTIMP-1 group than in saline group. mRNA expressions of TNF-α, IL-10 and CRP were lower in Ad-hTIMP-1 group than in Ad-Track group (all P<0.05). (4) Immune histochemical staining showed that protein expressions of IL-6 and CRP were higher in saline group and Ad-Track group than those in Ad-hTIMP-1 group (all P<0.05). Conclusion: Recombinant adenovirus Ad-hTIMP-1 can improve cardiac function in rats with myocardial infarction via inhibiting the inflammatory response and downregulating the expression of TNF-α, IL-6 and CRP.

Effect of casein to whey protein ratios on the protein interactions and coagulation properties of low-fat yogurt

In this study, we investigated the effect of casein (CN) to whey protein (WP) ratios (4:1, 3:1, 2:1, and 1:1) on gelation properties and microstructure of low-fat yogurt made with reconstituted skim milk with or without addition of whey protein concentrate. The rheological properties (storage modulus, G'; yield stress; and yield strain) of the obtained low-fat yogurt were greatly enhanced, the fermentation period was shortened, and the microstructure became more compact with smaller pores as the CN:WP ratio decreased. When CN:WP was 2:1 or 1:1, the obtained yogurt coagulum showed higher G' and greater yield stress, with more compact crosslinking and smaller pores. In addition, the more of skim milk powder was replaced by whey protein concentrate, the more disulfide bonds were formed and the greater the occurrence of hydrophobic interactions during heat treatment, which can improve the rheological properties and microstructure of low-fat yogurt.

[Prognostic significance of the changes of elastic fibers in acinar predominant or papillary-predominant pulmonary adenocarcinomas]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the role of elastic fiber changes in predicting survival outcomes in intermediate-grade lung adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

All pulmonary adenocarcinoma resections conducted between January 2009 and December 2009 were reviewed. Pathologically confirmed adenocarcinomas smaller than 3 cm were included in the present study. All cases were categorized into three elastic fiber patterns (EFP): complete loss as pattern Ⅰ (EFP Ⅰ), partial loss as pattern Ⅱ (EFP Ⅱ), normal and diffusely increase as pattern Ⅲ (EFP Ⅲ). Patients with different EFP were compared.

RESULTS

One hundred and ninety four patients were included in this study, with 67(34.5%), 70(36.1%)and 57(29.4%) cases presenting as EFP Ⅰ, EFP Ⅱ, and EFP Ⅲ, respectively. Lymph nodal metastases occurred in 35.8% (24/67), 40.0% (28/70), and 10.5% (6/57) of EFP Ⅰ, EFP Ⅱ and EFP Ⅲ patterns, respectively. The percentage of EFP Ⅰ and Ⅱ increased with increasing tumor size, these patterns occurring in 55.1% (38/69) of tumors ≤2.0 cm, and 79.2% (99/125) of tumors 2.1-3.0 cm in sizes, respectively. The overall 5-year overall survival rate was 75.8%, and 67.2% for EFP I, 68.6% for EFP II, and 94.7% for EFP Ⅲ.

CONCLUSION

In patients with intermediate-grade lung adenocarcinoma, EFP should be formally recognized as a feature of tumor invasion, and its evaluation can help to recognize tumor invasive and access clinical prognosis.

Analysis of the genome sequence of infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus HLJ-09 in China

Infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV) is a highly contagious disease of juvenile salmonid fish. Six genome target fragments of the complete genome sequence of IHNV HLJ-09 were amplified by RT-PCR, and the 3'-terminal and 5'-terminal region of the genomic RNA were amplified using the RACE method. The complete genome sequence of HLJ-09 comprises 11,132 nucleotides (nt) (Accession number JX649101) and is different from that of other IHNV strains published in GenBank. Homology comparison and phylogenetic analysis of six ORF sequences were carried out using HLJ-09 and other IHNV strains published in GenBank. From phylogenetic tree analysis, the N gene, M gene, and P gene had the closest genetic relationship to IHNV-PRT from Korea. Phylogenetic analysis for the full length of the G gene showed that the HLJ-09 strain exhibited very close homology to the ChYa07, RtNag96, RtUi02, and RtGu01 strains from Korea and Japan, indicating that the HLJ-09 strain belonged to the genotype JRt. Ultimately, the Chinese IHNV HLJ-09 strain may have originated in Korea and Japan.

Metal induced self-assembly of designed V-shape protein into 2D wavy supramolecular nanostructure

In order to understand and imitate the more complex bio-processes and fascinating functions in nature, protein self-assembly has been studied and has attracted more and more interest in recent years. Artificial self-assemblies of proteins have been constructed through many strategies. However, the design of complicated protein self-assemblies utilizing the special profile of building blocks remains a challenge. We herein report linear and 2D nanostructures constructed from a V shape SMAC protein and induced by metal coordination. Zigzag nanowires and wavy 2D nanostructures have been demonstrated by AFM and TEM. The zigzag nanowires can translate to a 2D nanostructure with an excess of metal ions, which reveals the step by step assembly process. Fluorescence and UV/Vis spectra have also been obtained to further study the mechanism and process of self-assembly. Upon the protein nanostructure, fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) could also be detected using fluorescein modified proteins as building blocks. This article provides an approach for designing and controlling self-assembled protein nanostructures with a distinctive topological morphology.

Protective effect of interleukin-10 and recombinant human keratinocyte growth factor-2 on ventilation-induced lung injury in rats

A rat model of ventilation-induced lung injury (VILI) during anesthesia was generated to investigate the potential role and possible mechanism of interleukin-10 (IL-10) and recombinant human keratinocyte growth factor-2 (rhKGF-2) in protecting anesthetized rats against VILI. A total of 50 male SD rats were randomly divided into 5 groups (N = 10 each): control, VILI, IL-10, rhKGF-2, and IL-10 + rhKGF-2. The VILI (model) group was generated via ventilation, with a tidal volume of 20 mL/kg. Rats in the IL-10 and rhKGF-2 groups received 8 mg/kg IL-10 and 5 mg/kg rhKGF-2, respectively, prior to ventilation. The rats in the IL-10 + rhKGF-2 group received both 8 mg/kg IL-10 and 5 mg/kg rhKGF-2 72 h before ventilation. The total number of nucleated cells and neutrophils in the bronchial alveolar lavage fluid was quantified, and the pathological changes in the pulmonary tissues examined by hematoxylin and eosin staining. The transcript and protein levels of surfactant protein C (SP-C) in lung tissues were detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses. The SP-C mRNA expression in both IL-10 and rhKGF-2 groups was similar to that in the VILI group. However, this was significantly elevated in the combined treatment group (P < 0.05), indicating that IL-10 and rhKGF-2 could synergistically protect the lung tissue from VILI via the enhancement of SP-C mRNA expression in lung tissues. The protein assay showed a decreased level of infiltration and activation of inflammatory cells, in addition to increased expression of SP-C, thereby confirming the efficacy of this treatment in preventing VILI during anesthesia.

Genetic diversity of Ceratoides arborescens, a species endemic to China, detected by inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR)

In order to investigate genetic diversity and population structure of Ceratoides arborescens, six populations were selected from different steppe types in Inner Mongolia grasslands of China. Inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers were used to assess the genetic diversity within and among natural populations of C. arborescens. Thirteen ISSR primers generated 154 discernible DNA bands, of which 151 (98.05%) were polymorphic. High genetic diversity was detected at the species level [percentage of polymorphic loci (PPB) = 98.05%; H = 0.2984; I = 0.4557], whereas, relatively low genetic diversity existed within populations (PPB = 80.62%; H = 0.2675; I = 0.4031). Analysis of molecular variance showed that variation existed mainly within populations (73.25%) rather than among populations (26.75%), which was in line with the high level of gene flow (Nm = 4.3332). The Mantel test found no significant correlation between genetic distance and geographic distance (r = 0.7522, P < 0.05). Six populations were clustered into two main groups, a desert steppe group and a typical steppe group.

Propofol pretreatment attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in rats by activating the phosphoinositide-3-kinase/Akt pathway

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of propofol pretreatment on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI) and the role of the phosphoinositide-3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) pathway in this procedure. Survival was determined 48 h after LPS injection. At 1 h after LPS challenge, the lung wet- to dry-weight ratio was examined, and concentrations of protein, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were determined using the bicinchoninic acid method or ELISA. Lung injury was assayed via lung histological examination. PI3K and p-Akt expression levels in the lung tissue were determined by Western blotting. Propofol pretreatment prolonged survival, decreased the concentrations of protein, TNF-α, and IL-6 in BALF, attenuated ALI, and increased PI3K and p-Akt expression in the lung tissue of LPS-challenged rats, whereas treatment with wortmannin, a PI3K/Akt pathway specific inhibitor, blunted this effect. Our study indicates that propofol pretreatment attenuated LPS-induced ALI, partly by activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway.

Misdiagnosis and long-term outcome of 13 patients with acute thallium poisoning in China

PURPOSE

To analyze clinical feature and evaluate long-term outcome of patients with thallium poisoning.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An observational series of cases with acute thallium poisoning was analyzed retrospectively in West China Hospital of Sichuan University between 2000 and 2010. The clinical data including symptom, determination of thallium level, treatment, neurophysiological examination, and neuropsychological evaluation were analyzed. The patients were followed up until December 2012.

RESULTS

Seven men and six women were enrolled in the study. The median patient age was 37 years (range: 15-53 years). The median duration of hospitalization was 44 days (range: 7-72). All the patients were misdiagnosed initially. One patient died in the hospital. The other 12 patients were followed for a median of 7 years (range: 1-12 years) after discharge from hospital. One patient died from leukemia in the first year of follow-up. Long-term outcome results showed peripheral neuropathy improved substantially. However, many patients have mild or moderate sequelae in sensory nerve fibers of distal lower extremity. A sural nerve biopsy in one patient revealed shrunken axons, distorted myelin sheath, and myelinated fibers loss. During follow-up period, problem of intelligence (4/12 patients, 33%), memory impairment (4/12, 33%), anxiety (6/12, 50%), and depression (5/12, 42%) were demonstrated.

CONCLUSIONS

Neurological symptoms may lead to misdiagnosis of thallium poisoning. Mild or moderate neurological sequelae may last for a long time after thallium poisoning.

Synthesis, structure, and physical properties of Ln(Cu,Al,Ga)(13-x) (Ln = La-Pr, and Eu) and Eu(Cu,Al)(13-x)

Ln(Cu,Al,Ga)(13-x) (Ln = La-Pr, and Eu; x ~ 0.2) were synthesized by a combined Al/Ga flux. Single crystal X-ray and neutron diffraction experiments revealed that these compounds crystallize in the NaZn(13) structure-type (space group Fm3[overline]c) with lattice parameters of a ~ 12 Å, V ~ 1600 Å, and Z ~ 8. Our final neutron models led us to conclude that Cu is occupationally disordered on the 8b Wyckoff site while Cu, Al, and Ga are substitutionally disordered on the 96i Wyckoff site of this well-known structure-type. The magnetic susceptibility data show that Ce(Cu,Al,Ga)(13-x) and Pr(Cu,Al,Ga)(13-x) exhibit paramagnetic behavior down to the lowest temperatures measured while Eu(Cu,Al,Ga)(13-x) displays ferromagnetic behavior below 6 K. Eu(Cu,Al)(13-x) was prepared via arc-melting and orders ferromagnetically below 8 K. The magnetocaloric properties of Eu(Cu,Al,Ga)(13-x) and Eu(Cu,Al)(13-x) were measured and compared. Additionally, an enhanced value of the Sommerfeld coefficient (γ = 356 mJ/mol-K(2)) was determined for Pr(Cu,Al,Ga)(13-x). Herein, we present the synthesis, structural refinement details, and physical properties of Ln(Cu,Al,Ga)(13-x) (Ln = La-Pr, and Eu) and Eu(Cu,Al)(13-x).

Crystal growth, structure, and physical properties of LnCu2(Al,Si)5 (Ln = La and Ce)

LnCu(2)(Al,Si)(5) (Ln = La and Ce) were synthesized and characterized. These compounds adopt the SrAu(2)Ga(5) structure type and crystallize in the tetragonal space group P4/mmm with unit cell dimensions of a ≈ 4.2 Å and c ≈ 7.9 Å. Herein, we report the structure as obtained from single crystal X-ray diffraction. Additionally, we report the magnetic susceptibility, magnetization, resistivity, and specific heat capacity data obtained for polycrystalline samples of LnCu(2)(Al,Si)(5) (Ln = La and Ce).

Incommensurate magnetism in FeAs strips: neutron scattering from CaFe(4)As(3)

Magnetism in the orthorhombic metal CaFe(4)As(3) was examined through neutron diffraction for powder and single crystalline samples. Incommensurate [q(m) ≈ (0.37-0.39) × b*] and predominantly longitudinally (|| b) modulated order develops through a 2nd order phase transition at TN = 89.63(6) K with a 3D Heisenberg-like critical exponent β = 0.365(6). A 1st order transition at T2 = 25.6(9)  K is associated with the development of a transverse component, locking q(m) to 0.375(2)b*, and increasing the moments from 2.1(1) to 2.2(3)  μ B for Fe2+ and from 1.3(3) to 2.4(4)  μB for Fe+. The ab initio Fermi surface is consistent with a nesting instability in cross-linked FeAs strips.

Assessment of the contact toxicity of methyl palmitate on Tetranychus viennensis (Acari: Tetranychidae)

Previous work demonstrated that methyl palmitate possesses acaricidal activity against Tetranychus viennensis Boisduval (Acari: Tetranychidae) via an unknown mechanism. Here, the symptoms of methyl palmitate toxicity to T. viennensi were studied to determine the acaricidal mechanism of action of this fatty acid methyl ester. Methyl palmitate caused concentration-dependent mortality of T. viennensis, with a moderate concentration (5 mg/ml) eliciting excitement and premature oviposition without spinning shortly after exposure. Tremors of the appendages were subsequently observed, followed by quiescence after approximately 5 h. Mites developed dorsal fluid exosmosis at 15-20 h posttreatment with reduced egg production, followed shortly thereafter by death. Some typical neurotoxic symptoms such as excitement and convulsions were observed in methyl palmitate-exposed mites, suggesting that methyl palmitate may be a neurotoxin. Compared with other neurotoxic acaricides, methyl palmitate poisoning is a slow process in mites. Transmission electron microscopy revealed serious ultrastructural damage in response to 5 mg/ml methyl palmitate exposure. Autolysis of membranous structures was also observed, especially in the mitochondria, suggesting a novel mode of action for methyl palmitate-induced toxicity.

Band narrowing and Mott localization in iron oxychalcogenides La2O2Fe2O(Se,S)2

Bad metal properties have motivated a description of the parent iron pnictides as correlated metals on the verge of Mott localization. What has been unclear is whether interactions can push these and related compounds to the Mott-insulating side of the phase diagram. Here we consider the iron oxychalcogenides La2O2Fe2O(Se,S)2, which contain an Fe square lattice with an expanded unit cell. We show theoretically that they contain enhanced correlation effects through band narrowing compared to LaOFeAs, and we provide experimental evidence that they are Mott insulators with moderate charge gaps. We also discuss the magnetic properties in terms of a Heisenberg model with frustrating J1-J2-J2' exchange interactions on a "doubled" checkerboard lattice.

Intensive insulin therapy decreases urinary MCP-1 and ICAM-1 excretions in incipient diabetic nephropathy

BACKGROUND

Nowadays, intensive insulin treatment has been widely used in type 2 diabetics who have poor control of blood glucose, to reduce the risk of chronic complications of diabetes. Recently, some scholars have paid more attention to the pivotal role of inflammation involved in type 2 diabetes and its complications. Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), which are two important inflammatory chemokines, have been documented to participate in the onset and development of type 2 diabetes and its complications, such as diabetic nephropathy (DN).

DESIGN

In the current study, we recruited 30 type 2 diabetics with microalbuminuria to be treated with multiple insulin injections daily for 2 weeks. Random spot urine samples (corrected for creatinine-Cr) were collected for the examination of urinary MCP-1, ICAM-1 and albumin (Alb) levels before and after the intensive insulin therapy. Changes in their levels were observed to test the hypothesis that type 2 diabetes with microalbuminuria is associated with elevated urinary concentrations of MCP-1 and ICAM-1, and intensive insulin therapy can result in a decline of Alb by reducing the inflammatory reaction.

RESULTS

The urinary MCP-1/Cr and urinary ICAM-1/Cr ratios in type 2 diabetic patients with microalbuminuria were much higher than those in normal controls, and intensive insulin treatment could decrease significantly the urinary MCP-1/Cr, ICAM-1/Cr and Alb/Cr ratios in type 2 diabetics with microalbuminuria.

CONCLUSION

Intensive insulin treatment may protect against renal injury in early DN by reducing the urinary MCP-1 and ICAM-1 excretions.

Methyl palmitate, an acaricidal compound occurring in green walnut husks

Walnut, Juglans regia L., is known for its insecticidal activities to a range of herbivores and microbes. Isolation and identification of bioactive compounds from walnut is a potential approach for the development of new pesticides. Laboratory experiments were carried out to investigate the acaricidal activities of green husk extracts of walnut. Bioassay-guided fractionation of petroleum-ether extracts of walnut led to the identification of a common plant-borne fatty acid ester, methyl palmitate (MP), which produced strong acaricidal activity (62.8% mortality) at 1 mg/ml at 24 h. The structure of MP was characterized with infrared spectrum and NMR, and the identification of MP confirmed using an authentic standard on high-performance liquid chromatography. Based on a slide dip bioassay, 10 mg/ml MP provided 97.9% mortality against adults of Tetranychus cinnabarinus (Boisduval) (Acari: Tetranychidae), whereas mortality against eggs was much lower (57.2%).

Acaricidal activity of Juglans regia leaf extracts on Tetranychus viennensis and Tetranychus cinnabarinus (Acari: Tetranychidae)

Leaf extracts of the walnut, Juglans regia L., were evaluated under laboratory conditions to determine their acaricidal activity on the mites Tetranychus cinnabarinus (Boisduval) and Tetranychus viennensis Zacher (Acari: Tetranychidae). Extracts had both contact and systemic toxicity to these mites. The four solvents tested for preparing crude extracts were petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and methanol. Methanol was the most efficient solvent, with an extraction rate from 17.06 + 0.80 to 20.27 +/- 0.28%. Petroleum ether was the least effective solvent, with extraction rates from 2.30 +/- 0.13 to 2.71 +/- 0.13%. However, the crude extracts with petroleum ether resulted in the highest mite mortality (79.04 +/- 0.52%) in a slide dip bioassay. Mites mortalities from the concentrated extracts prepared by chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol, or distilled water were significantly lower than petroleum ether. The mean lethal concentrations (LC50) of the extracts from petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol, and distilled water to the two mite species were 0.73 +/- 0.04, 1.66 +/- 0.28, 4.96 +/- 0.35, 7.45 +/- 0.67, and 9.91 +/- 0.32 mg/ml, respectively. After liquid chromatography and thin-layer chromatography, the concentrated extracts of petroleum ether were separated into eight fractions and tested for acaricidal activity. Fraction 6 produced significantly higher mite mortality rates than the other groups, killing approximately 90% of both species.

Acaricidal activities of extracts of Kochia scoparia against Tetranychus urticae, Tetranychus cinnabarinus, and Tetranychus viennensis (Acari: Tetranychidae)

Extracts of an annual herbaceous plant, Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad (Macrophomina), were bioassayed to determine their acaricidal activities against Tetranychus urticae Koch, Tetranychus cinnabarinus (Boisduval), and Tetranychus viennensis Zacher (Acari: Tetranychidae) in the laboratory. Extracts had both contact and systemic toxicity to these mites. Three solvents were tested for preparing crude extracts: petroleum ether, chloroform, and methanol. Methanol was the most effective solvent, extracting 3.11-4.53% of the acaricide. Petroleum ether was the least effective solvent, extracting 1.25-1.54%. However, extracts with chloroform resulted in the highest mite mortality (78.86%), and ultrasound-assisted extraction required the least time (10 min). Concentrated extracts were prepared using chloroform, methyl acetate, or distilled water as a solvent. Mite mortalities from the concentrated extracts by methyl acetate or distilled water were significantly lower than those by chloroform. The mean lethal concentrations (LC50) of the extracts by chloroform, methyl acetate, and distilled water to the mites were 0.71 +/- 0.06, 2.08 +/- 0.16 and 8.75 +/- 0.062 mg/ml, respectively. After liquid chromatography and thin layer chromatography, the concentrated extracts by chloroform were separated into seven groups of isolated fractions and tested for acaricidal activity.

Theory and method for calculating resonance Raman scattering from resonance polarizability derivatives

We present a method to calculate both normal Raman-scattering (NRS) and resonance Raman-scattering (RRS) spectra from the geometrical derivatives of the frequency-dependent polarizability. In the RRS case, the polarizability derivatives are calculated from resonance polarizabilities by including a finite lifetime of the electronic excited states using time-dependent density-functional theory. The method is a short-time approximation to the Kramers, Heisenberg, and Dirac formalism. It is similar to the simple excited-state gradient approximation method if only one electronic excited state is important, however, it is not restricted to only one electronic excited state. Since the method can be applied to both NRS and RRS, it can be used to obtain complete Raman excitation profiles. To test the method we present the results for the S2 state of uracil and the S4, S3, and S2 states of pyrene. As expected, the results are almost identical to the results obtained from the excited-state gradient approximation method. Comparing with the experimental results, we find in general quite good agreement which enables an assignment of the experimental bands to bands in the calculated spectrum. For uracil the inclusion of explicit waters in the calculations was found to be necessary to match the solution spectra. The calculated resonance enhancements are on the order of 10(4)-10(6), which is in agreement with experimental findings. For pyrene the method is also able to distinguish between the three different electronic states for which experimental data are available. The neglect of anharmonicity and solvent effects in the calculations leads to some discrepancy between theory and experiment.

Acaricidal activities of extracts of Stellera chamaejasme against Tetranychus viennensis (Acari: Tetranychidae)

Extracts of a perennial and poisonous weed, Stellera chamaejasme L. (Thymelaeaceae) were bioassayed to determine their acaricidal activities against Tetranychus viennensis Zacher (Acari: Tetranychidae) in the laboratory. Extracts had both contact and systemic toxicity to the mite. After liquid chromatography and thin layer chromatography, the extract was further concentrated, separated, and bioassayed. This study is the first to report the acaricidal property of S. chamaejasme and its potential as a botanical pest control agent.

Eosinophilopoiesis in a murine model of allergic airway eosinophilia: involvement of bone marrow IL-5 and IL-5 receptor alpha

The airway inflammation in asthma is dominated by eosinophils. The aim of this study was to elucidate the contribution of newly produced eosinophils in airway allergic inflammation and to determine mechanisms of any enhanced eosinophilopoiesis. OVA-sensitized BALB/c mice were repeatedly exposed to allergen via airway route. Newly produced cells were identified using a thymidine analog, 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine, which is incorporated into DNA during mitosis. Identification of IL-5-producing cells in the bone marrow was performed using FACS. Bone marrow CD3+ cells were enriched to evaluate IL-5-protein release in vitro. Anti-IL-5-treatment (TRFK-5) was given either systemically or directly to the airways. IL-5R-bearing cells were localized by immunocytochemistry. Repeated airway allergen exposure caused prominent airway eosinophilia after three to five exposures, and increased the number of immature eosinophils in the bone marrow. Up to 78% of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) granulocytes were 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine positive. After three allergen exposures, both CD3+ and non-CD3 cells acquired from the bone marrow expressed and released IL-5-protein. Anti-IL-5 given i.p. inhibited both bone marrow and airway eosinophilia. Intranasal administration of anti-IL-5 also reduced BAL eosinophilia, partly via local effects in the airways. Bone marrow cells, but not BAL eosinophils, displayed stainable amounts of the IL-5R alpha-chain. We conclude that the bone marrow is activated by airway allergen exposure, and that newly produced eosinophils contribute to a substantial degree to the airway eosinophilia induced by allergen. Airway allergen exposure increases the number of cells expressing IL-5-protein in the bone marrow. The bone marrow, as well as the lung, are possible targets for anti-IL-5-treatment.

IL-12 regulates bone marrow eosinophilia and airway eotaxin levels induced by airway allergen exposure

BACKGROUND

Airway allergen exposure causes local eosinophilic cell infiltration. This cellular inflammatory response is likely to involve the release of eosinophils from peripheral storage pools, and possibly also regeneration of eosinophils in the bone marrow. IL-12 is an inhibitory cytokine in allergic inflammation, shown to reduce eosinophilic cell infiltration. The aim of the present study was to determine whether airway allergen exposure increases bone marrow eosinophil production, and, if so, whether IL-12 modulates this effect.

METHODS

Ovalbumin-sensitized C57BL/6 mice and IL-12 knockout (KO) mice were exposed to allergen via the airway route, and the inflammatory cell response was evaluated in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, blood, and bone marrow.

RESULTS

Allergen instillation intranasally produced a dose-dependent inflammatory response in the lower airways of sensitized mice. This inflammatory response was dominated by eosinophils, but there were also increases of both lymphocytes and neutrophils. Sensitization and airway allergen exposure also increased the IL-5-dependent growth of bone marrow cells in vitro. The enhanced bone marrow responsiveness in vitro was paralleled by an increased number of bone marrow eosinophils in vivo. After sensitization and repeated allergen exposure, IL-12 KO mice showed higher eosinophil levels in both BAL and bone marrow than parallel wild-type control mice. Furthermore, BAL-eotaxin levels were increased in IL-12 KO mice as opposed to parallel wild-type controls after allergen exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

Airway allergen exposure induced systemic immunologic responses, including increased eosinophil numbers in both airways and bone marrow, and also enhanced IL-5 responsiveness in bone marrow cells. IL-12 may regulate airway eosinophilia at both the level of eosinophilopoiesis and the level of local recruitment of eosinophils into the airways.

Acute and chronic animal models for excessive dermal scarring: quantitative studies

Excessive scarring in the form of keloids and hypertrophic scars continues to be a clinical problem for some patients. The lack of an animal model for such scarring has been an obstacle to studying the cellular and molecular biology of these entities. Previous observations made by the authors that some surgical scars in the rabbit ear remain raised for months after wounding prompted us to investigate whether the rabbit ear might provide a model by which to study excessive dermal scarring. After establishing the model in preliminary study, 40 excisional wounds, 6 mm in diameter, were created over the ventral surface of rabbit ears. Elevated scars were treated with either intralesional triamcinolone acetonide or saline at day 16 postwounding. On day 22, 25 scar wounds were used for thorough histomorphometric analysis, 15 wounds were eliminated prior to analysis because of invagination of epithelial tissue, which made analysis difficult. Total area of scar and Hypertrophic Index, a ratio comparing scar prominence with the thickness of adjacent unwounded tissue, were measured for 25 (62 percent) of the resulting scars. Both total area of scar and Hypertrophic Index were found to be significantly decreased in the steroid-treated group (p < 0.02 and < 0.03, respectively). In a chronic form of this model, in which larger excisions were taken, an excessive accumulation of both new collagen and cartilage over 9 months was observed. An animal model for excessive dermal scarring that allows quantitation of scar formation and, at an early stage, can be modulated in a predictable way with intralesional corticosteroid treatment is presented. This model may parallel hypertrophic scarring in humans and thus might provide a tool by which to study its pathophysiology and objectively evaluate therapeutic modalities.

Protein phosphatase 2A inhibits nuclear telomerase activity in human breast cancer cells

Most cancer cells have increased levels of telomerase activity implicated in cell immortalization. Activation of telomerase, a ribonucleoprotein complex, catalyzes the elongation of the ends of mammalian chromosomal DNA (telomeres), the length of which regulates cell proliferation. Currently, how telomerase is regulated in cancer is not yet established. The present study shows that telomerase activity is regulated by protein phosphorylation in human breast cancer cells. Incubation of cell nuclear telomerase extracts with protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) abolished the telomerase activity; in contrast cytoplasmic telomerase activity was unaffected, and protein phosphatases 1 and 2B were ineffective. Inhibition of telomerase activity by PP2A was both concentration- and time-dependent and was prevented by the protein phosphatase inhibitor okadaic acid. In addition, nuclear telomerase inhibited by PP2A was reactivated by endogenous protein kinase(s) in the presence of ATP, but not in the presence of ATPgammaS. Furthermore, telomerase activity in cultured human breast cancer PMC42 cells was stimulated by okadaic acid, consistent with a role for PP2A in the regulation of telomerase activity in intact cells. These findings suggest that protein phosphorylation reversibly regulates the function of telomerase and that PP2A is a telomerase inhibitory factor in the nucleus of human breast cancer cells.

Interaction between the insulin-like growth factor family and the integrin receptor family in tissue repair processes. Evidence in a rabbit ear dermal ulcer model

We have determined previously that IGF-I is dependent on the presence of IGF binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1) to act as a wound healing agent. We sought to determine the mechanism whereby IGFBP-1 is able to enhance IGF-I bioactivity. As IGFBP-1 binds both the alpha5beta1 integrin as well as IGF-I in vitro, we asked which of the following interactions were important: (a) the ability of IGFBP-1 to interact with an integrin receptor, and/or (b) the binding of IGF-I by IGFBP-1. We used an IGF-1 analogue (des(1-3)IGF-I) with a > 100-fold reduction in affinity for IGFBP-1 as well as an IGFBP-1 mutant (WGD-IGFBP-1) which does not associate with the alpha5beta1 integrin to selectively abrogate each of these interactions. We also tested the ability of IGFBP-2, a related binding protein which has an arginine-glycine-aspartate sequence but does not associate with integrin family members, to enhance IGF-I bioactivity. Full-thickness dermal wounds were created on rabbit ears; various combinations of native IGF-I, native IGFBP-1, native IGFBP-2, and their respective analogues/mutants were applied to each wound. Wounds were harvested 7 d later for analysis. Only native IGF-I in combination with native IGFBP-1 was effective as a wound healing agent, enhancing reepithelialization and granulation tissue deposition by 64+/-5 and 83+/-12% over controls (P = 0.008 and 0.016, respectively). The same doses of IGF-I/WGD-IGFBP-1, des(1-3)IGF-I/IGFBP-1, and IGF-I/IGFBP-2 were ineffective. We propose that IGF-I physically interacts with IGFBP-1 and that IGFBP-1 also binds to an integrin receptor, most likely the alpha5beta1 integrin. This interaction is unique to IGFBP-1 as the closely related IGFBP-2 had no effect, a finding consistent with its inability to bind to integrin receptors. Our results suggest that activation of both the IGF-I receptor and the alpha5beta1 integrin is required for IGF-I to stimulate wound healing.