Biofilm formation of Hafnia paralvei induced by c-di-GMP through facilitating bcsB gene expression promotes spoilage of Yellow River carp (Cyprinus carpio)

Hafnia paralvei, a Gram-negative foodborne pathogen, is found ubiquitously in various aquatic animals and seafoods, which can form biofilm as a dominant virulence factor that contributes to its pathogenesis. However, the biofilm formation mechanism of H. paralvei and its effect on food spoilage has not been fully characterized. Here we show that biofilm formation, is regulated by c-di-GMP which mediated by bcsB, can increase the spoilage ability of H. paralvei. We found that GTP was added exogenously to enhance the synthesis of c-di-GMP, which further promoted biofilm formation. The gene dgcC, one of 11 genes encoding GGDEF domain-containing proteins in H. paralvei, was significantly upregulated with GTP as substrate. The upregulation of dgcC contributes to a significant increase of c-di-GMP and the formation of biofilm. In addition, the overexpression of dgcC induced upregulation of bcsB, a reported effector protein encoding gene, which was further demonstrated that overexpression of bcsB can encourage the synthesis of bacterial cellulose and biofilm formation. The effect of biofilm formation induced by c-di-GMP on spoilage of Yellow River carp (Cyprinus carpio) was evaluated by sensory evaluation, the total viable count, and the total volatile basic nitrogen, which showed that biofilm formation can significantly increase the spoilage ability of H. paralvei on C. carpio. Our findings provide the regulation of c-di-GMP on expression of bcsB, that can contribute to biofilm formation and spoilage ability of H. paralvei, which is favor to understanding the pathogenesis of Hafnia paralvei and its role in food spoilage.

Polystyrene microplastics promote intestinal colonization of Aeromonas veronii through inducing intestinal microbiota dysbiosis

The premise that pathogen colonized microplastics (MPs) can promote the spread of pathogens has been widely recognized, however, their role in the colonization of pathogens in a host intestine has not been fully elucidated. Here, we investigated the effect of polystyrene MPs (PS-MPs) on the colonization levels of Aeromonas veronii, a typical aquatic pathogen, in the loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) intestine. Multiple types of MPs were observed to promote the intestinal colonization of A. veronii, among which PS-MPs exhibited the most significant stimulating effect (67.18% increase in A. veronii colonization). PS-MPs inflicted serious damage to the intestinal tracts of loaches and induced intestinal microbiota dysbiosis. The abundance of certain intestinal bacteria with resistance against A. veronii colonization decreased, with Lactococcus sp. showing the strongest colonization resistance (73.64% decline in A. veronii colonization). Fecal microbiota transplantation was performed, which revealed that PS-MPs induced intestinal microbiota dysbiosis was responsible for the increased colonization of A. veronii in the intestine. It was determined that PS-MPs reshaped the intestinal microbiota community to attenuate the colonization resistance against A. veronii colonization, resulting in an elevated intestinal colonization levels of A. veronii.

Herb pair of Rhubarb-Astragalus mitigates renal interstitial fibrosis through downregulation of autophagy via p38-MAPK/TGF-β1 and p38-MAPK/smad2/3 pathways

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has a high incidence and poor prognosis; however, no effective treatment is currently available. Our previous study found that the improvement effect of the herb pair of Rhubarb-Astragalus on CKD is likely related to the inhibition of the TGF-β1/p38-MAPK pathway. In the present study, a p38-MAPK inhibitor was used to further investigate the inhibitory effect of Rhubarb-Astragalus on the TGF-β1/p38-MAPK pathway and its relationship with autophagy.

METHODS

A rat model of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) was established, and a subgroup of rats was administered Rhubarb-Astragalus. Renal function and renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) were assessed 21 d after UUO induction. In vitro, HK-2 cells were treated with TGF-β1 and a subset of cells were treated with Rhubarb-Astragalus or p38-MAPK inhibitor. Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and qRT-PCR analyses were used to detect the relevant protein and mRNA levels. Transmission electron microscopy was used to observe autophagosomes.

RESULTS

Rhubarb-Astragalus treatment markedly decreased the elevated levels of blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, and urinary N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase; attenuated renal damage and RIF induced by UUO; and reduced the number of autophagosomes and lysosomes in UUO-induced renal tissues. Additionally, Rhubarb-Astragalus reduced the protein and mRNA levels of α-SMA, collagen I, LC3, Atg3, TGF-β1, p38-MAPK, smad2/3, and TAK1 in renal tissues of UUO rats. Rhubarb-Astragalus also reduced protein and mRNA levels of these indicators in vitro. Importantly, the effect of the p38-MAPK inhibitor was similar to that of Rhubarb-Astragalus.

CONCLUSIONS

Rhubarb-Astragalus improves CKD possibly by downregulating autophagy via the p38-MAPK/TGF-β1 and p38-MAPK/smad2/3 pathways.

Risk factors and a nomogram for predicting cognitive frailty in Chinese patients with lung cancer receiving drug therapy: A single-center cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

To identify independent factors of cognitive frailty (CF) and construct a nomogram to predict cognitive frailty risk in patients with lung cancer receiving drug therapy.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, patients with lung cancer undergoing drug therapy from October 2022 to July 2023 were enrolled. The data collected includes general demographic characteristics, clinical data characteristics and assessment of tools for cognitive frailty and other factors. Logistic regression was harnessed to determine the influencing factors, R software was used to establish a nomogram model to predict the risk of cognitive frailty. The enhanced bootstrap method was employed for internal verification of the model. The performance of the nomogram was evaluated by using calibration curves, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, and decision curve analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 372 patients were recruited, with a cognitive frailty prevalence of 56.2%. Age, education background, diabetes mellitus, insomnia, sarcopenia, and nutrition status were identified as independent factors. Then, a nomogram model was constructed and patients were classified into high- and low-risk groups with a cutoff value of 0.552. The internal validation results revealed good concordance, calibration and discrimination. The decision curve analysis presented prominent clinical utility.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of cognitive frailty was higher in lung cancer patients receiving drug therapy. The nomogram could identify the risk of cognitive frailty intuitively and simply in patients with lung cancer, so as to provide references for early screening and intervention for cognitive frailty at the early phases of drug treatment.

Quorum sensing signal autoinducer-2 promotes hydrogen peroxide degradation in water by Gram-positive bacteria

Hydrogen peroxide is widely used to remedy bacterial and parasitic infections, but its excessive use will cause severe damage to aquatic animals. Moreover, there is no safe, efficient and low-cost method to degrade residual hydrogen peroxide in water. Here we developed a hydrogen peroxide removal mechanism by which autoinducer-2 (AI-2), a quorum sensing signal molecule that can promote the hydrogen peroxide degradation by Gram-positive bacteria. Here, we investigated the promotion effect of AI-2 on hydrogen peroxide degradation by Deinococcus sp. Y35 and the response of the antioxidant system. We further sought to understand the key mechanism underlying the promotion effect of AI-2 on hydrogen peroxide degradation is that, AI-2 contributed to the resistance of strain Y35 to oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide, and altered membrane permeability of strain Y35 that allowed more hydrogen peroxide to enter bacterial cells and be degraded. Additionally, AI-2 can also encourage multiple Gram-positive bacteria to degrade hydrogen peroxide. Accordingly, our study serves as a reference for the regulation mechanism of the signal molecule AI-2 and provides the development of new strategies for hydrogen peroxide degradation.

Occurrence characteristics and influencing factors of antibiotic resistance genes in rural groundwater in Henan Province

This study determined the antibiotic-resistant gene (ARG) contents of 34 groundwater samples in Henan Province collected from September to October 2022, then assessed the roles of both water quality parameters and intI1 in ARG propagation in groundwater. The results show that there existed universal ARG pollution in groundwater, and sulfonamides-, β-lactem-, and tetracycline-resistance genes were the most prevalent gene types during the time. Sul1 contributed the majority proportion of the total resistance genes (TARGs). The prevalence of ESBLs gene blaTEM and the occurrence of Carbapenems resistant gene blaOXA-1 suggests the pollution of high-risk ARGs in groundwater demands more attention. IntI1 is prevalent and had a significantly positive correlation with almost 50% ARGs, indicating its contribution to ARG propagation in groundwater. Well types contribute little to ARG propagation in rural groundwater of Henan, which means the protective facilities established by the local government for public wells can effectively prevent contamination from exogenous ARGs. However, the economic level has no impact on the abundance of ARGs in rural groundwater, which suggests the local government should pay greater attention to investment in controlling ARG pollution in Henan rural areas.

Molecular mechanism of microRNA-mediated hypoglycemic effect of whole grain highland barley

As a non-coding RNA, microRNA (miRNA) has been proven to play an important role in the development and progression of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Highland barley is a whole grain from the Tibetan areas of China. Our previous studies have demonstrated its hypoglycemic effect. To further explore the underlining molecular mechanism, we investigated the effect of highland barley intervention on liver miRNA expression profiles in diabetic mice. Our results showed that ten differentially expressed miRNA among different groups were identified and their target genes were predicted. Remarkably, many glycometabolism-associated genes, including Foxo3, Nras, Rptor, Igf1r, Tsc2 and Braf, were negatively regulated by miR-122-5p, miR-503-5p, miR-455-5p and miR-210-3p, respectively. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed these target genes were mainly involved in AMPK, MAPK and FOXO signaling pathways. Thereby, these miRNA and mRNA were validated using qRT-PCR, and the results were consistent with the small RNA-seq and expectations. Highland barley could regulate the MAPK, AMPK, and FOXO signaling pathways by regulating critical miRNA-mRNA pairs, e.x. miR-210-3p-Tsc2/Braf, miR-122-5p-Foxo3, and miR-455-5p-Igf1r, thereby improving blood glucose metabolism in diabetic mice. The present study preliminarily explored the hypoglycaemic effects of highland barley based on transcriptomics, and more detailed and in-depth studies on this topic are needed in the future.

Elimination of Microcystis aeruginosa through Leuconostoc mesenteroides DH and its underlying mechanism

Microcystis aeruginosa is ubiquitously found in various water bodies and can produce microcystins (MCs), which threaten the health of aquatic animals and human beings. The elimination of excessive M. aeruginosa is beneficial for the protection of the ecosystems and public health. In this regard, algae-lysing bacteria have been extensively studied as an effective measure for their eradication. However, the active substances generated by algae-lysing bacteria are limited. For this study, we reveal that the phenyllactic acid (PLA) produced by Leuconostoc mesenteroides DH exhibits high efficacy for the removal of M. aeruginosa, and explore the elimination mechanism of strain DH on M. aeruginosa. It was found that a cell-free supernatant of strain DH possessed high removal activities against M. aeruginosa. Abundant reactive oxygen species were induced in algal cells following exposure to strain DH supernatant, as well as superoxide dismutase and catalase responses. Furthermore, the integrity of algal cell membranes and photosynthesis was seriously damaged. Interestingly, added exogenous eugenol significantly inhibited the synthesis of active substance produced by strain DH, which further identified that PLA is one of the active substances that contribute to the eradication of M. aeruginosa on the basis of metabolomics analysis. Our finding demonstrated, for the first time, that PLA (as an anti-cyanobacterial compound) can be used for the removal of M. aeruginosa, which provides a theoretical basis for the control of M. aeruginosa.

Tracking the extracellular and intracellular antibiotic resistance genes across whole year in wastewater of intensive dairy farm

Monitoring the annual variation of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in livestock wastewater is important for determining the high-risk period of transfer and spread of animal-derived antibiotic resistance into the environment. However, the knowledge regarding the variation patterns of ARGs, especially intracellular ARGs (iARGs) and extracellular ARGs (eARGs), over time in livestock wastewater is still unclear. Herein, we conducted a year-round study to trace the profiles of ARGs at a Chinese-intensive dairy farm, focusing on the shifts observed in different months. The results showed significant differences in the composition and variation between iARGs and eARGs. Tetracycline, sulfonamide, and macrolide resistance genes were the major types of iARGs, while cfr was the major type of eARG. The environmental adaptations of the host bacteria determine whether ARGs appear as intracellular or extracellular forms. The total abundance of ARGs was higher from April to September, which can be attributed to the favorable climatic conditions for bacterial colonization and increased antibiotic administration during this period. Integron was found to be highly correlated with most iARGs, potentially playing a role in the presence of these genes within cells and their similar transmission patterns in wastewater. The intracellular and extracellular bacterial communities were significantly different, primarily because of variations in bacterial adaptability to the high salt and anaerobic environment. The intracellular co-occurrence network indicated that some dominant genera in wastewater, such as Turicibacter, Clostridium IV, Cloacibacillus, Subdivision5_genera_incertae_sedis, Saccharibacteria_genera_incertae_sedis and Halomonas, were potential hosts for many ARGs. To the best of our knowledge, this study demonstrates, for the first time, the annual variation of ARGs at critical points in the reuse of dairy farm wastewater. It also offers valuable insights into the prevention and control of ARGs derived from animals.

Autoinducer-2 promotes adherence of Aeromonas veronii through facilitating the expression of MSHA type IV pili genes mediated by c-di-GMP

IMPORTANCE

Aeromonas veronii can adhere to host cells through different adherence factors including outer-membrane proteins (OMPs), lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and pili, but its adherence mechanisms are still unclear. Here, we evaluated the effect of autoinducer-2 (AI-2) on adherence of A. veronii and its regulation mechanism. After determination of the promotion effect of AI-2 on adherence, we investigated which adherence factor was regulated by AI-2, and the results show that AI-2 only limits the formation of pili. Among the four distinct pili systems, only the mannose-sensitive hemagglutinin (MSHA) type IV pili genes were significantly downregulated after deficiency of AI-2. MshE, an ATPase belonged to MSHA type IV pilin, was confirmed as c-di-GMP receptor, that can bind with c-di-GMP which is positively regulated by AI-2, and the increase of c-di-GMP can promote the expression of MSHA type IV pili genes and adherence of A. veronii. Therefore, this study confirms that c-di-GMP positively regulated by AI-2 binds with MshE, then increases the expression of MSHA pili genes, finally promoting adherence of A. veronii, suggesting a multilevel positive regulatory adhesion mechanism that is responsible for A. veronii adherence.

Energetic Electron Precipitation Driven by Electromagnetic Ion Cyclotron Waves from ELFIN's Low Altitude Perspective

We review comprehensive observations of electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) wave-driven energetic electron precipitation using data collected by the energetic electron detector on the Electron Losses and Fields InvestigatioN (ELFIN) mission, two polar-orbiting low-altitude spinning CubeSats, measuring 50-5000 keV electrons with good pitch-angle and energy resolution. EMIC wave-driven precipitation exhibits a distinct signature in energy-spectrograms of the precipitating-to-trapped flux ratio: peaks at >0.5 MeV which are abrupt (bursty) (lasting ∼17 s, or Δ L ∼ 0.56 ) with significant substructure (occasionally down to sub-second timescale). We attribute the bursty nature of the precipitation to the spatial extent and structuredness of the wave field at the equator. Multiple ELFIN passes over the same MLT sector allow us to study the spatial and temporal evolution of the EMIC wave - electron interaction region. Case studies employing conjugate ground-based or equatorial observations of the EMIC waves reveal that the energy of moderate and strong precipitation at ELFIN approximately agrees with theoretical expectations for cyclotron resonant interactions in a cold plasma. Using multiple years of ELFIN data uniformly distributed in local time, we assemble a statistical database of ∼50 events of strong EMIC wave-driven precipitation. Most reside at L ∼ 5 - 7 at dusk, while a smaller subset exists at L ∼ 8 - 12 at post-midnight. The energies of the peak-precipitation ratio and of the half-peak precipitation ratio (our proxy for the minimum resonance energy) exhibit an L -shell dependence in good agreement with theoretical estimates based on prior statistical observations of EMIC wave power spectra. The precipitation ratio's spectral shape for the most intense events has an exponential falloff away from the peak (i.e., on either side of ∼ 1.45 MeV). It too agrees well with quasi-linear diffusion theory based on prior statistics of wave spectra. It should be noted though that this diffusive treatment likely includes effects from nonlinear resonant interactions (especially at high energies) and nonresonant effects from sharp wave packet edges (at low energies). Sub-MeV electron precipitation observed concurrently with strong EMIC wave-driven >1 MeV precipitation has a spectral shape that is consistent with efficient pitch-angle scattering down to ∼ 200-300 keV by much less intense higher frequency EMIC waves at dusk (where such waves are most frequent). At ∼100 keV, whistler-mode chorus may be implicated in concurrent precipitation. These results confirm the critical role of EMIC waves in driving relativistic electron losses. Nonlinear effects may abound and require further investigation.

In vivo deep-brain 2-photon fluorescent microscopy labeled with near-infrared dyes excited at the 1700 nm window

2-Photon fluorescence microscopy (2PFM) is an indispensable imaging technology for neuroscience. However, the imaging depth is usually limited to the cortical layer in mouse brain in vivo. Here, we demonstrate deep brain 2PFM in vivo excited at the 1700 nm window, using IR780 and aza-IR780 as fluorescent labels. Our detailed characterization of the multiphoton excitation and emission properties of IR780 and aza-IR780 show that: (1) IR780 or aza-IR780 generate 2-photon fluorescence excited at the 1700 nm window and are promising for 2PFM; (2) aza-IR780 exhibits a larger ησ₂ with better anti-photobleaching property compared to IR780; The 2-photon action cross-sections of IR780 and aza-IR780 in plasma are an order-of-magnitude larger than those in PBS; (3) In vivo 2-photon emission spectra for both dyes show a notable red shift compared to those in vitro. Based on these characterization results, we demonstrate deep brain 2PFM labeled by them. A maximum imaging depth of 1585 μm (labeled by IR780) and 1800 μm (labeled by aza-IR780) into the mouse brain in vivo readily penetrates the subcortical region of hippocampus. Besides, a maximum of 1528 μm hemodynamic imaging depth is realized via 2PFM with aza-IR780 labeling, enabling us to measure blood flow speed in the hippocampus.

Resolving arteriolar wall structures in mouse brain in vivo with three-photon microscopy

The brain arteriolar wall is a multilayered structure, whose integrity is of key significance to the brain function. However, resolving these different layers in anmial models in vivo is hampered by the lack of either labeling or imaging technology. Here, we demonstrate that three-photon microscopy (3PM) is an ideal solution. In mouse brain in vivo, excited at the 1700-nm window, label-free third-harmonic generation imaging and three-photon fluorescence (3PF) imaging with Alexa 633 labeling colocalize and resolve the internal elastic lamina. Furthermore, Alexa Fluor 594-conjugated Wheat Germ Agglutinin (WGA-594) shows time-dependent labeling behavior. As time lapses, WGA-594 first labels endothelium, and then vascular smooth muscle cells, which are readily captured and resolved with 3PF imaging. Our results show that 3PM, in combination with proper labeling, is a promising technology for investigating the structures of brain arteriolar wall in vivo.

Co-packaged optics (CPO): status, challenges, and solutions

Due to the rise of 5G, IoT, AI, and high-performance computing applications, datacenter traffic has grown at a compound annual growth rate of nearly 30%. Furthermore, nearly three-fourths of the datacenter traffic resides within datacenters. The conventional pluggable optics increases at a much slower rate than that of datacenter traffic. The gap between application requirements and the capability of conventional pluggable optics keeps increasing, a trend that is unsustainable. Co-packaged optics (CPO) is a disruptive approach to increasing the interconnecting bandwidth density and energy efficiency by dramatically shortening the electrical link length through advanced packaging and co-optimization of electronics and photonics. CPO is widely regarded as a promising solution for future datacenter interconnections, and silicon platform is the most promising platform for large-scale integration. Leading international companies (e.g., Intel, Broadcom and IBM) have heavily investigated in CPO technology, an inter-disciplinary research field that involves photonic devices, integrated circuits design, packaging, photonic device modeling, electronic-photonic co-simulation, applications, and standardization. This review aims to provide the readers a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art progress of CPO in silicon platform, identify the key challenges, and point out the potential solutions, hoping to encourage collaboration between different research fields to accelerate the development of CPO technology.

In Vivo Deep-Brain 3- and 4-Photon Fluorescence Imaging of Subcortical Structures Labeled by Quantum Dots Excited at the 2200 nm Window

Multiphoton microscopy (MPM) is an enabling technology for visualizing deep-brain structures at high spatial resolution in vivo. Within the low tissue absorption window, shifting to longer excitation wavelengths reduces tissue scattering and boosts penetration depth. Recently, the 2200 nm excitation window has emerged as the last and longest window suitable for deep-brain MPM. However, multiphoton fluorescence imaging at this window has not been demonstrated, due to the lack of characterization of multiphoton properties of fluorescent labels. Here we demonstrate technologies for measuring both the multiphoton excitation and emission properties of fluorescent labels at the 2200 nm window, using (1) 3-photon (ησ₃) and 4-photon action cross sections (ησ₄) and (2) 3-photon and 4-photon emission spectra both ex vivo and in vivo of quantum dots. Our results show that quantum dots have exceptionally large ησ₃ and ησ₄ for efficient generation of multiphoton fluorescence. Besides, the 3-photon and 4-photon emission spectra of quantum dots are essentially identical to those of one-photon emission, which change negligibly subject to the local environment of circulating blood. Based on these characterization results, we further demonstrate deep-brain vasculature imaging in vivo. Due to the superb multiphoton properties of quantum dots, 3-photon and 4-photon fluorescence imaging reaches a maximum brain imaging depth of 1060 and 940 μm below the surface of a mouse brain, respectively, which enables the imaging of subcortical structures. We thus fill the last gap in multiphoton fluorescence imaging in terms of wavelength selection.

Co-doped g-C3N4 nanotube decorated separators mediate polysulfide redox for high performance lithium sulfur batteries

The main issue with lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries is the serious irreversible capacity loss caused by the polysulfide shuttle process. In this work, we propose an electro-catalytic strategy for absorbing and transferring long-chain polysulfides during the redox process, which is the key to improving the utilization of S. Reported here is a Co doped tubular g-C3N4 (CN) modified separator (Co-TCN@PP), which successfully inhibited the polysulfide shuttle by physical absorption and catalysis, thus facilitating the high utilization of S. Co-TCN with a tube-like structure ensures the uniform dispersion of Co nanoparticles, which provides abundant active sites to absorb polysulfides. Furthermore, Co-TCN exhibits fast reaction kinetics for polysulfide conversion. A Li-S battery with Co-TCN@PP achieves superior rate capacities and a long cycle life (400 times) with capacity fading as low as 0.07% per cycle at a high Li+ insertion/extraction rate of 2C. Moreover, electrodes with a high sulfur loading of 5.6 mg cm-2 can be realized by adopting the Co-TCN@PP separator.

Research on parameter identification of shaking table systems based on the RLS method

It is difficult to accurately establish a model of the real mesa system. Furthermore, a model of a seismic simulation vibration table array system is critical to increasing the accuracy of seismic testing in laboratory settings. Herein a model of the nine subarray shaking table system is identified by recursive extension of the least square method, which is used to accurately identify the structure parameters by simulation of the structure assuming a single degree-of-freedom. Then, through the displacement of the empty shaking table and the application of the recursive least squares algorithm, the model of the seismic simulation vibration table array is established. Through this study, the vibration table model of different construction forms can be obtained, and the parameters that are difficult to measure for some complex structures can effectively be determined.

[Association study between the KCNE family gene polymorphisms of potassium channel gene and the susceptibility of atrial fibrillation]

Objective: To investigate the relationship between KCNE family gene polymorphisms of potassium channel gene and the susceptibility of atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods: In the case-control study, a total of 648 subjects were studied, of which 338 patients with atrial fibrillation were selected from the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Putuo Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine from January 2019 to December 2019, and 310 healthy people were selected from the physical examination population during the same period. DNA sequencing technology and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were used to detect the genotype and allele frequency of rs1805127 of KCNE1, rs9984281 of KCNE2, rs9516, rs626930 of KCNE3 and rs12621643 of KCNE4. Results: The ages of subjects in atrial fibrillation group and control group were (69±13) and (73±8) years, respectively (P=0.077). Men subjects accounted for 57.70% (195 men) and 40.00% (124 men) in the two groups, respectively (P=0.092). The distribution frequencies of the allele C at rs1805127 of gene KCNE1, the allele A at rs9984281 of gene KCNE2 and the allele G at rs12621643 of gene KCNE4 were significantly different between groups (P<0.05). After adjustment for sex, smoking, hypertension, cardiac insufficiency and other factors, it was found that the increase in the frequency of the above three loci would increase the risk of atrial fibrillation (rs1805127 OR=7.064, 95%CI:1.559-31.997; rs9984281 OR=4.210, 95%CI:1.118-15.850; rs12621643 OR=2.679, 95%CI:1.025-6.998). Conclusion: The rs1805127 of KCNE1, the rs9984281 of KCNE2,the rs12621643 of KCNE4 were significantly associated with the susceptibility to atrial fibrillation.

Highland Barley Polyphenol Delayed the In Vitro Digestibility of Starch and Amylose by Modifying Their Structural Properties

Slowing starch digestibility can delay or even prevent the occurrence and development of type 2 diabetes. To explore the hypoglycemic potential of highland barley polyphenols (HBP), this study investigated the structural characteristics and starch digestibility of individual or mixed HBP-starch complexes. The results showed that a V-type structure was formed in HBP-starch complexes through non-covalent bonds, resulting in a decrease in rapidly digestible starch and an increase in resistant starch. Specially, the compounding of HBP extracted by acetone significantly reduced the rapidly digestible starch content in amylose from 41.11% to 36.17% and increased the resistant starch content from 6.15% to 13.27% (p < 0.05). Moreover, due to different contents and types of monomer phenols, the HBP extracted with acetone were more effective in inhibiting starch digestion than those extracted with methanol. Ferulic acid and catechin were two key components of HBP. Further results indicated that with the increased content of ferulic acid and catechin (from 1% to 5%), they formed a more ordered structure with amylose, resulting in the lower digestibility of the complex. Collectively, this study suggested that highland barley polyphenols could effectively delay starch digestion by forming a more ordered starch crystal structure. Highland barley polyphenols can be used as functional ingredients in regulating the digestive properties of starchy foods.

A Calcineurin Regulator MoRCN1 Is Important for Asexual Development, Stress Response, and Plant Infection of Magnaporthe oryzae

The calcium/calcineurin signaling pathway plays a key role in the development and virulence of plant pathogenic fungi, but the regulation of this signaling pathway is still not clear. In this study, we identified a calcineurin regulator MoRCN1 in the plant pathogenic fungus Magnaporthe oryzae and found it is important for virulence by regulating the calcineurin pathway. MoRCN1 deletion mutants were severely decreased in colony growth and conidia formation. More importantly, the deletion of MoRCN1 led to a significant reduction in virulence due to defects in appressorium formation and invasive growth. The ΔMorcn1 mutants were more sensitive to different stresses and induced host ROS accumulation, suggesting a role of MoRCN1 in stress adaptation. We found that MoRCN1 directly interacted with the calcineurin catalytic subunit MoCNA and affected its protein stability, which was therefore important for regulating the calcineurin pathway. Transcriptome analysis showed that MoRCN1 significantly activated 491 genes and suppressed 337 genes in response to calcium ion, partially overlapped with the MoCRZ1-bound genes. Gene Ontology and KEGG pathway analyses indicated that MoRCN1-regulated genes were enriched in stress adaptation, lipid metabolism, and secondary metabolite biosynthesis, reflecting a function of MoRCN1 in host cell adaptation. Altogether, these results suggest MoRCN1 functions as a regulator of the calcium/calcineurin signaling pathway for fungal development and infection of host cells.

NiCr-LDH-Co nanosheets on nickel foam as efficient oxygen evolution electrocatalysts in alkaline media

The exploration of efficient, stable, and economical electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is of great significance and challenge for the development of renewable energy. A serious of Ni-based layered...

[Interpretation of the International Association of Dental Traumatology guidelines for the management of traumatic dental injuries (2020)]

An update version of the International Association of Dental Traumatology (IADT) guidelines for the management of traumatic dental injuries has been released in June 2020 (http://www.dentaltraumaguide.org). In this current revision, IADT has put forward a "core outcome set" (COS) for the diagnosis and treatment of dental trauma both in children and adults. The COS was developed and underpinned by a systematic review of the outcomes in the literature of dental trauma treatment. An outcome that was relevant to all traumatic dental injuries (TDI) was identified as "generic outcome" and those related only to one or more particular TDI were then included as "injury-specific outcomes". The aims of the present article are to help the dental clinicians in learning the latest version of the guideline so that they may quickly and accurately grasp the essence of the updated content and to assist them to choose the optimized treatment plan after judging and evaluating the specific clinical circumstances so as to maximize the chance of a favorable outcome.

[Occlusal contact of primary dentition at intercuspal position in children with individual normal occlusion]

Objective: To record occlusal contact of primary dentition at maximal intercuspal position in children with individual normal occlusion. Methods: A total of 57 children were recruited from patients of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology. Inclusion criteria were that the subjects were 3-5 years old with no visually detectable caries or pupal and periapical diseases, had complete primary dentition, had individual normal occlusion, had normal function of craniofacial system, were medically healthy, could cooperate with sampling and had obtained written informed consent from the parents or guardians. Finally, forty-seven children aged 3 to 5 years old were enrolled, including 24 males and 23 females. The age, height and weight of all subjects were (4.1±0.7) years old (ranging 3.0-5.8 years old), (103.7±7.2) cm (ranging 90-120 cm) and (17.1±2.5) kg (ranging 12.5-22.5 kg), respectively. Occlusal abilities such as occlusal contact area, average bite pressure, maximum bite pressure, maximum bite force and occlusal balance were measured with Dental Prescale Ⅱ system. Results: Maximum bite force and occlusal contact area at intercuspal position in children with primary dentition were (567.40±223.84) N (ranging 226.7-1 154.6 N) and (18.56±6.54) mm² (ranging 8.4-41.2 mm²), respectively. There was a significantly strong correlation between maximum bite force and occlusal contact area (r=0.954, P<0.01). Height and weight of children were also positively correlated with their maximum bite force (r=0.397, P=0.022 and r=0.453, P=0.008, respectively). Maximum occlusal bite force and contact occlusal area of boys [(651.80±224.34) N and (20.77±6.97) mm²] were significantly higher and larger than those of girls [(479.34±190.45) N and (16.25±5.27) mm²] (P<0.05). Thirty-two of all 47 children had one occlusal contact point with maximum bite pressure, mostly locating within the primary molar region. Bite forces of anterior and posterior teeth of primary dentition were (124.12±56.99) N and (450.11±205.09) N, respectively, about (21.82±11.40)% and (71.80±21.35)% of maximum bite force of the whole primary dentition. All of the occlusal balance points located in posterior teeth regions. Occlusal contacts were observed at both anterior and posterior teeth of primary dentition with individual normal occlusion. Conclusions: There was a great variation of maximum bite forces of primary dentitions at intercuspal position of children with individual normal occlusion. Maximum bite force of primary dentition was significantly correlated with occlusal contact area, height and weight of children. Occlusal contact points with maximum bite pressure and occlusal bite balance points of primary dentitions mostly located in primary molar regions.

[Relationship between insulin resistance, serum VCAM-1, FGF19, IGF-1 and colorectal polyps]

Objective: To explore the relationship between insulin resistance, glucose and lipid metabolism related molecules and colorectal polyps. Methods: A total of 262 healthy people who underwent colonoscopy in Shandong cancer hospital from June 2019 to September 2020 were selected. The levels of serum vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19), insulin like growth factor (IGF-1), fasting blood glucose and fasting blood insulin were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) was calculated, and the influencing factors of occurrence, pathological type, size and number of polyps were analyzed. Results: Among 262 cases, 116 cases were polyp free, 113 cases were adenomatous polyp and 33 cases were inflammatory polyp. HOMA-IR, VCAM-1 and FGF19 in polyp group were 2.904±1.754, (334.415±139.573) ng/ml and (135.865±98.470) pg/ml, respectively, which were higher than 2.369±1.306, (302.480±99.946) ng/ml and(110.694±76.044) ng/ml in non-polyp group, respectively (P<0.05). Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that the gender (OR=4.269, 95%CI: 1.963-9.405) and FGF19 (77.0-131.4 pg/ml: OR=2.385, 95%CI: 1.155-4.926) were independent factors of colorectal polyps. The gender (OR=3.799, 95%CI: 1.650-8.748) and FGF19 (77.0-131.4 pg/ml: OR=2.290, 95%CI: 1.072-4.891) were independent factors of colorectal adenomatous polyps. The gender(OR=6.725, 95%CI: 1.853-24.410) and fasting plasma glucose (≥6.5 mmol/L: OR=0.047, 95%CI: 0.009-0.245) were independent factors of colorectal inflammatory polyps. The gender (OR=3.539, 95% CI: 1.293-9.689) was an independent factor for the occurrence of single polyp. The gender (OR=5.063, 95% CI: 2.048-12.515), FGF19 (77.0-131.4 pg/ml: OR=2.502, 95%CI: 1.102-5.681), fasting plasma glucose (≥6.5 mmol/L: OR=0.282, 95%CI: 0.095-0.839) were independent factors of multiple polyps. The gender (OR=3.416, 95% CI: 1.134-10.289) and fasting insulin (≥9.4 μU/ml: OR=9.480, 95% CI: 1.485-60.521) were independent risk factors for colorectal polyps<0.5 cm. The gender (OR=3.151, 95%CI: 1.244-7.984) and fasting plasma glucose (≥6.5 mmol/L: OR=0.310, 95%CI: 0.102-0.941) were independent risk factors for colorectal polyps with the size of 0.5-0.9 cm. The gender (OR=22.649, 95%CI: 4.154-123.485), age (55 to 64 years old: OR=4.473, 95%CI: 1.070-18.704; ≥65 years old: OR=5.815, 95%CI: 1.300-26.009), BMI (≥28 kg/m(2): OR=5.310, 95%CI: 1.224-23.032) and FGF19 (77.0-131.4 pg/ml: OR=7.474, 95%CI: 1.903-29.351) were independent factors for colorectal polyps with size ≥ 1.0 cm. Gender stratification analysis showed that FGF19 was an independent factor for the occurrence of male polyps (77.0-131.4 pg/ml: OR=6.109, 95%CI: 1.688-22.104) and adenomas (77.0-131.4 pg/ml: OR=6.401, 95%CI: 1.717-23.864). The age (55 to 64 years old: OR=3.783, 95%CI: 1.052-13.611) and VCAM-1 (≥352.8 ng/ml: OR=4.341, 95%CI: 1.142-16.493) were independent risk factors of female polyps. The age (55 to 64 years old: OR=5.743, 95%CI: 1.205-27.362, ≥65 years old: OR=6.885, 95%CI: 1.143-41.467), VCAM-1 (≥352.8 ng/ml: OR=6.313, 95%CI: 1.415-28.159) and IGF-1 (≥7.6 ng/ml: OR=5.621, 95%CI: 1.069-29.543) were independent factors of female adenoma. Conclusions: The occurrences of colorectal polyps and adenomatous polyps are related to insulin resistance and glucose and lipid metabolism. Serum FGF19 is an independent influencing factor for the occurrence of colorectal polyps and adenomatous polyps, and is a potential serological diagnostic marker and therapeutic target for colorectal polyps and adenomatous polyps.

A systematic review of olfactory related questionnaires and scales

PURPOSE

Although neglected by science for a long time, the sense of olfaction has received increasing attention from research areas including psychology, neuroscience, clinical medicine and nutrition. With the rise of psychophysical and neuroimaging re- search into olfaction, psychometric tools (e.g. questionnaires and scales) are the basis for the quantitative exploration of inter-in- dividual variability regarding olfactory related responses. The current systematic review is to summarize existing olfaction related questionnaires and/or scales.

METHODS

Peer-reviewed literature on scales and questionnaires related to perception of odors were searched from online databa- ses (PubMed, Web of Science and PsycINFO). Twenty-one articles that meet the following criteria were included in the review: "human species", "physical odor stimuli" and "describing the original development of the tool" and "specific focus on olfaction or odor related responses or behaviors". The psychometric properties, advantages and possible disadvantages were discussed.

RESULTS

Existing psychometric measures focus on various aspects of olfactory related responses and behaviors, including af- fective experiences of odor perception, awareness and attitude towards olfaction, olfactory function and the quality of life change due to olfactory dysfunction, and the ability to create vivid mental odor images. While most of them have been tested to have good reliability and validity, some were relatively time-consuming due to the number of questionnaire items. Besides, although many measures have been used in clinical populations, few have provided information on the predictive validity regarding effecti- veness of clinical intervention on changes of certain responses or behaviors.

SUMMARY

The current review provides an overview of olfactory related questionnaires and scales, highlighting the emotional and affective impact of olfaction and the impact on quality of life due to olfactory dysfunction. With growing interest in olfaction as an important sense, the development and use of psychometrically sound measurements in conjunction with objective assess- ments will advance our understanding of human olfaction and olfactory dysfunction. The review provides a guide for researchers and clinicians alike to select olfactory scales suitable for olfactory research with different experimental purposes and specific samples.

Ginaton injection alleviates cisplatin-induced renal interstitial fibrosis in rats via inhibition of apoptosis through regulation of the p38MAPK/TGF-β1 and p38MAPK/HIF-1α pathways

Ginaton injection (Ginkgo biloba extract; GBE) has been reported to protect against cisplatin-induced acute renal failure in rats. In the present study, the effects and molecular mechanisms of GBE on cisplatin-induced renal interstitial fibrosis were evaluated using a rat model. The rats were intraperitoneally injected with cisplatin once on the first day and a subset of rats were treated with GBE or SB203580 (SB; a specific p38 MAPK inhibitor) daily from days 22 to 40. The levels of N-acetyl-β-D-Glucosaminidase (NAG) in the urine, and of urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (Scr) in the blood were assessed. The damage and fibrosis of renal tissues were evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin staining, as well as Masson's trichrome staining, respectively. Apoptosis in renal tissues was detected using a TUNEL assay. The protein expression levels of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA), collagen 1 (Col I), Bax, Bcl-2, caspase-3/cleaved caspase-3, hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), TGF-β1 and p38MAPK, as well as the mRNA levels of p38MAPK in renal tissues were investigated. The results showed that GBE markedly reduced the levels of urinary NAG, Scr and BUN, and renal expression of α-SMA and Col I levels were also reduced. Furthermore, GBE significantly reduced renal tissue injury and the relative area of renal interstitial fibrosis induced by cisplatin. GBE effectively reduced the apoptotic rate of renal tissues, the protein expression levels of Bax, cleaved caspase-3, phospho-p38MAPK, TGF-β1 and HIF-1α, as well as the mRNA expression levels of p38MAPK in renal tissues induced by cisplatin, whereas GBE significantly increased Bcl-2 protein expression. SB exhibited similar effects to GBE, although it was not as effective. In summary, the present study is the first to show that GBE significantly alleviated renal interstitial fibrosis following cisplatin-induced acute renal injury. The mechanisms by which GBE exhibited its effects were associated with the inhibition of apoptosis via downregulation of the p38MAPK/TGF-β1 and p38MAPK/HIF-1α signaling pathways.

Rhubarb and Astragalus Capsule Attenuates Renal Interstitial Fibrosis in Rats with Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction by Alleviating Apoptosis through Regulating Transforming Growth Factor beta1 (TGF-β1)/p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases (p38 MAPK) Pathway

BACKGROUND Rhubarb and astragalus capsule (RAC) has been used in the clinical treatment of chronic kidney disease for decades. However, the mechanism of RAC has not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect and mechanisms of RAC on unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO)-induced renal interstitial fibrosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS The main components of RAC are detected by high-performance liquid phase (HPLC). A rat model of UUO was established, and a subset of rats underwent treatment with RAC. Renal function and renal pathology were examined at 14 days and 21 days after the UUO operation. Renal cell apoptosis was detected by TUNEL staining. The levels of Bcl-2 and Bax in the kidney were examined by western blotting, and the levels of collagen I, alpha-SMA, transforming growth factor (TGF)-ß1, and p38 MAPK in the kidneys were detected by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS High-performance liquid phase chromatography showed that RAC contained 1.12 mg/g aloe-emodin, 2.25 mg/g rhein, 1.75 mg/g emodin, and 4.50 mg/g chrysophanol. Administration of RAC significantly decreased the levels of urinary N-acetyl-ß-D-glucosaminidase (NAG), serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine (Scr) and also reduced renal tissue damages and interstitial fibrosis induced by UUO in rats. Moreover, the increased levels of collagen I, alpha-SMA, TGF-ß1, p38 MAPK, and the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, as well as cell apoptosis in the kidney, were induced by UUO, and were all found deceased by RAC treatment. CONCLUSIONS RAC can improve the renal interstitial fibrosis induced by UUO, and the mechanism may be related to inhibition of renal tubular cell apoptosis via TGF-ß1/p38 MAPK pathway.

Can Touchscreen Devices be Used to Facilitate Young Children's Learning? A Meta-Analysis of Touchscreen Learning Effect

Because of the continuous stream of touchscreen apps that are claimed to be educational and the increasing use of touchscreen devices in early childhood, considerable attention is being paid to the effect of touchscreens on young children's learning. However, the existing empirical findings in young child samples are not consistent. In this meta-analysis we tested the overall effect of touchscreen devices on young children's (0- to 5-year-olds) learning performance, as well as moderators of this effect, based on 36 empirical articles (79 effect sizes) involving 4,206 participants. The overall analysis showed a significant touchscreen learning effect (d = 0.46), indicating that young children indeed benefited from touchscreen learning. Interestingly, age, learning material domain, comparison group, and experimental environment significantly moderated the effect of touchscreen devices on young children's learning outcome. These findings shed light on the role of touchscreen-related physical experience in early childhood education.

Improving social skills in children with ASD using a long-term, in-home social robot

Social robots can offer tremendous possibilities for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) interventions. To date, most studies with this population have used short, isolated encounters in controlled laboratory settings. Our study focused on a 1-month, home-based intervention for increasing social communication skills of 12 children with ASD between 6 and 12 years old using an autonomous social robot. The children engaged in a triadic interaction with a caregiver and the robot for 30 min every day to complete activities on emotional storytelling, perspective-taking, and sequencing. The robot encouraged engagement, adapted the difficulty of the activities to the child's past performance, and modeled positive social skills. The system maintained engagement over the 1-month deployment, and children showed improvement on joint attention skills with adults when not in the presence of the robot. These results were also consistent with caregiver questionnaires. Caregivers reported less prompting over time and overall increased communication.

[Correlation between Movement Distance of Small Intestinal Contents and Survival Time in Female Rats after Feeding]

OBJECTIVES

To study the correlation between the movement distance of small intestinal contents and survival time in female SD rat models after one-time satiation, and to evaluate its application value for postmortem interval estimation.

METHODS

Adult female SD rats were randomly divided into postprandial groups （1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 h after feeding） and control group. The postprandial groups were fed for 1 h, meanwhile control group was kept fasting. All rats were sacrificed at the given time. The contents in stomach and small intestine were observed, described, compared and photographed, and the movement distance of small intestinal contents was measured. The data of postprandial groups were analysed by one-way analysis of variance.

RESULTS

The stomach and duodenum of control group were empty with a little thin and yellow small intestinal liquid. The gastral cavities of 1 h postprandial group were full of undigested food. The evolutionary changes of character, colour and content were observed in the gastric and small intestinal contents of other postprandial groups. The movement distance of intestinal contents increased while the empty part decreased gradually. The differences among the postprandial groups were statistically significant （P<0.05）.

CONCLUSIONS

After a 24 h fasting with free drinking and the following 1 h feeding, an ideal animal model can be established successfully on female SD rats, which can provide an experimental basis for postmortem interval estimation based on the changes of small intestinal contents in forensic practice.

[A preliminary study of saliva matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) in children with caries]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the correlation between matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2/MMP-9 levels and childhood caries, and the saliva levels of MMP-2/MMP-9 among healthy children and those with different degrees of dental caries, both before and after treatment.

METHODS

In the study, 368 children aged 3 to 5 years were separated into three groups: severe caries group (112 children), mild caries group (98 children) and caries free group (158 children). The children with severe caries were included in treatment group (83 children) after accepting a comprehensive treatment of caries. MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and the data were analyzed by the Statistics Package for Social Science (SPSS 13.0). The differences among severe caries group, mild caries group and caries free group were analyzed by SNK-q (Student Newman Keuls). The severe caries group and treatment group were compared by paired t test. The differences between each group were statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference of the age and gender composition among severe caries group, mild caries group, caries free group and treatment group. The MMP-2 level of severe caries group [(141.3±32.5) μg/L] was higher than those of mild caries group [(107.5±21.3) μg/L] and caries free group [(102.8±18.5) μg/L] (P<0.05). There was no significant difference between mild caries and caries free group (P>0.05). After analysis of 83 children in the treatment group, the level of MMP-2 [(120.1±24.8) μg/L] was lower than before [(144.6±30.3) μg/L] (P<0.05), but was higher than that of caries free group (P<0.05). The MMP-9 levels of severe caries group [(445.8±68.1) μg/L] and mild caries group [(428.6±59.2) μg/L] were higher than that of caries free group [(385.4±60.6) μg/L] (P<0.05), but the difference between severe caries group and mild caries group was not significant (P>0.05). After analysis of 83 children in the treatment group, the alteration of MMP-9 [(432.2±64.7) μg/L] was not significant either (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

The saliva levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in children with severe caries were higher than those in caries free children, even if the treatment was implemented, which suggests that the MMP-2 and MMP-9 in saliva might be related to the caries in children.

[Interleukin-1β and C-reactive protein level in plasma and gingival crevicular fluid in adolescents with diabetes mellitus]

OBJECTIVE

Cytokines produced by various cells are strong local mediators of inflammation. Interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) and C-reactive protein (CRP) play essential roles in the development and progression of diabetes mellitus (DM). Thus periodontal diseases could be related to DM via the same mediators of inflammation. To evaluate plasma and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) levels of IL-1β and CRP in adolescents with DM to further investigate whether DM has an impact on the levels of inflammation factors at an early stage, and to analyze the risk of developing periodontal diseases in adolescents with DM.

METHODS

A total of 121 adolescents aged from ten to sixteen years were enrolled, 41 adolescents diagnosed with diabetes mellitus were collected in the DM group, and 80 nondiabetic adolescents as the control group. The periodontal indices of each individual were recorded, including plaque index (PLI), modified bleeding index (mBI), probing depth (PD) and attachment loss (AL). GCF and intravenous blood samples were collected, and CRP and IL-1β levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

(1) PLI of DM group and control group were 1.23±0.05 and 0.95±0.04 separately, with significant difference (P=0.001). DM group and control group had mBI of 0.80±0.08 and 0.51±0.06 separately, with significant difference (P=0.003). Attachment loss was found in none of the subjects. PDs of DM group and control group were (2.37±0.51) mm and (2.31±0.05) mm separately, and there was no significant difference. (2) CRP in GCF was only detectable in partial of the individuals, with a detectable rate of 22.9% (11/48) in total. The detectable rate of CRP in GCF was significantly higher in DM group (38.5%) than that in control group (4.5%, P=0.006). The plasma level of CRP in DM group [0.23 (0.15, 1.89) mg/L] was higher than that in control group [0.19 (0.12, 4.18) mg/L], but without significance (P=0.776). (3) The plasma levels of IL-1β in DM group and control group were (14.11±0.57) ng/L and (14.71±0.50) ng/L separately, but there was no significance (P=0.456). GCF levels of IL-1β in DM group and control group were (12.91±1.95) μg/L and (17.68±3.07) μg/L, without significant difference (P=0.185).

CONCLUSION

Periodontitis was not observed in adolescents with DM at an early stage. However, the rising levels of periodontal indices and CRP in GCF, might indicate that adolescents with DM have a higher risk of developing periodontal diseases in the future.

A novel splicing mutation of ectodysplasin A gene responsible for hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia

Hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (HED) is characterized by hypohidrosis, hypodontia, sparse hair, and characteristic facial features. This condition is caused by an ectodysplasin A (EDA) gene mutation. In this study, we examined two HED pedigrees and investigated the molecular genetics of the defect. Direct sequencing analysis revealed a previously unidentified mutation in the EDA splice donor site (c.526 + 1G>A). The function of the mutant EDA gene was predicted through online investigations and subsequently confirmed by splicing analysis in vitro. The mutation resulted in the production of a truncated EDA-A1 protein caused by complete omission of exon 3. This novel functional skipping-splicing EDA mutation was considered to be the cause of HED in the two pedigrees reported here. Our findings, combined with those reported elsewhere, provide an improved understanding of the pathogenic mechanism of HED as well as important information for a genetic diagnosis.

[Age Estimation of Adult Living Donor by Pubic MSCT Three-dimensional Reconstruction]

OBJECTIVES

To establish a method for the age estimation of adult living donor based on pubic MSCT three-dimensional reconstruction and verify its accuracy and reliability.

METHODS

The volume rendering （VR） image data of pubic symphysis surface were collected from 300 volunteers aged over 17 years old. According to different age groups, the age estimation of these volunteers was performed by the method and formula of pubic symphysis surface.

RESULTS

In the 300 volunteers, the difference between biological age and actual age was <1 year in 117 cases, >1-2 years in 178 cases, >2 years in 5 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

MSCT three-dimensional reconstruction technology of pubic symphysis surface can be used to estimate the age of adult living donor, which can provide a high accurate and reliable result.

[Analysis of maternal deaths in Shanghai from 1996 to 2015]

Objective: To analyze the trend of maternal mortality ratio (MMR) and cause of death in Shanghai from 1996 to 2015. Methods: To collect the material about the maternal death and the maternal death audit from 1996 to 2015, and to analyze the MMR, the cause of death and the result of the maternal death audit of Shanghai from 1996 to 2015 retrospectively. Results: (1) The change of MMR: the MMR in Shanghai decreased from 28.84 per 100 000 live births in 1996 to 6.66 per 100 000 live births in 2015. (2) The characteristic of maternal death: the proportion of Shanghai citizens was 27.4%(121/441) and the proportion of migrant women was 72.6%(320/441). The women with advanced maternal age was 8.2% (20/243) since 1996 to 2005, and increased to 16.7% (33/198) since 2006 to 2015. Maternal deaths during pregnancy increased from 27.6%(67/243) in the first 10 years (1996-2005) to 35.4%(70/198) in the recent 10 years (2006-2015) . The intrapartum maternal deaths was 6.2%(15/243) in the first 10 years and in the recent 10 years it was zero. The proportion of postpartum deaths in the first 10 years and in the recent 10 years were 66.3% (161/243) and 64.6%(128/198) respectively. (3) The cause of maternal death: During the recent 10 years, indirect obstetric causes [63.1%(125/198)] was more than direct obstetric causes [36.9% (73/198) ] for the first time. The death causes changed significantly. Postpartum hemorrhage remained the leading cause of maternal deaths, but the specific mortality rate (SMR) of postpartum hemorrhage decreased significantly from 7.42 per 100 000 live births in the first 10 years to 1.51 per 100 000 live births in the recent 10 years. The maternal deaths because of heart disease and cerebrovascular disease rose to the second and the forth reasons. (4) Maternal death audit: the avoidable maternal death ratio decreased from 3.66 per 100 000 live births in the first 10 years to 1.86 per 100 000 live births in the recent 10 years. Conclusions: During the past 20 years, the MMR of Shanghai decreased significantly and was close to the level of developed countries. In recent years, the causes of maternal death become more complicated. With the implementation of the second child policy, women with high risk factors increase, so government investment, policy support should be strengthened to optimize the management.

[Retrospective analysis of pulp revascularization in immature permanent teeth with diffuse pulpitis]

Objective: To evaluate the treatment effectiveness of revascularization in immature permanent teeth with diffuse pulpitis and to provide an alternative approach for the treatment of these teeth. Methods: Clinical and radiographic data were collected from 17 immature permanent teeth which were diagnosed as diffuse pulpitis and with their pulp extirpated at Emergency Department of Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology. All these teeth were treated using pulp revascularization at Department of Pediatric Dentistry. Clinical success rate was then evaluated based on the clinical and radiographic findings. The increase of root length and dentin wall thickness of the revascularized teeth and the contralateral control teeth were measured and compared according to the preoperative and recall periapical radiographs. Results: The average follow-uptime is (25.8±9.9) months (12-46 months). Totally 13 out of the 17 teeth showed normal clinical and radiographic manifestation and achieved the increasein root length and dentin wall thickness. They met criteria for success treatment. The rest 4 out of the 17 teeth also showed root length and dentin wall thickness increaseand apical foramen closure. However, periapical inflammations were observed during 12 to 36 monthfollow-ups. These cases were recognized as failed. In all the17 teeth, the increase of root length and dentin wall thickness was not significantly different between the revascularized teeth and the contralateral control teeth (P>0.05). Conclusions: Pulp revascularization in young permanent teeth with diffuse pulpitis resulted in similar clinical outcomes in root development and root canal wall formation compared with the contralateral control teeth. However, reinfection might occur during long-term follow-up.

A multi-pathway model for photosynthetic reaction center

Charge separation occurs in a pair of tightly coupled chlorophylls at the heart of photosynthetic reaction centers of both plants and bacteria. Recently it has been shown that quantum coherence can, in principle, enhance the efficiency of a solar cell, working like a quantum heat engine. Here, we propose a biological quantum heat engine (BQHE) motivated by Photosystem II reaction center (PSII RC) to describe the charge separation. Our model mainly considers two charge-separation pathways which is more than that typically considered in the published literature. We explore how these cross-couplings increase the current and power of the charge separation and discuss the effects of multiple pathways in terms of current and power. The robustness of the BQHE against the charge recombination in natural PSII RC and dephasing induced by environments is also explored, and extension from two pathways to multiple pathways is made. These results suggest that noise-induced quantum coherence helps to suppress the influence of acceptor-to-donor charge recombination, and besides, nature-mimicking architectures with engineered multiple pathways for charge separations might be better for artificial solar energy devices considering the influence of environments.

[Radiographic and masticatory physiologic evaluation after conservative treatment of condylar fractures in children and adolescents]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the developmental and functional outcome of condylar fractures in children and adolescents after conservative treatment.

METHODS

Eight children and adolescents with unilateral condylar fracture, aged 5-13 were included. A removable occlusal splint, the thickness of which was determined according to the age, the developmental stage of the dentition, the level of the fracture and the degree of dislocation, worn for 1-3 months, and the patients were asked to perform functional exercises. The patients were followed up by clinical observation, panoramic radiograph, temporomandibular joint(TMJ ) cone beam computed tomography(CBCT), and surface electromyography(sEMG) of masticatory muscles (superficial masseter, anterior temporalis, and anterior digastric muscles). Ramus height and body length of mandible were measured on panoramic radiograph. The patients were asked to return for follow-up visits at 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment, and then once a year. The patients underwent clinical examination at each follow-up visit, and radiological examinations at 6 months and then annually.

RESULTS

All the patients showed clinically satisfactory results. CBCT showed smooth and continuous cortex. Panoramic X-ray revealed that the ramus height was shorter in the fractured side than in the contralateral side, while body length was longer. The mean asymmetry index(AI,x±s) for ramus height and body length were (3.29±2.68)% and (4.01 ± 2.54)%. sEMG showed either hypertension or hypotension in the masticatory muscles of the fractured side and asymmetries were obvious. The mean AI for sEMG activity of the anterior temporalis, masseter, and anterior digastric muscle were masseter: (15.0 ± 16.9)%; anterior temporalis: (21.5 ± 15.9)%; anterior digastric muscles: (11.9 ± 10.7)%.

CONCLUSIONS

Conservative treatment of condylar fracture in children and adolescents had clinically satisfactory results, while mandibular development was slightly interrupted. Asymmetries of EMG activities of masticatory muscles were obvious. EMG could objectively reveal the functional recovery of condylar fracture in children.

General response formula and application to topological insulator in quantum open system

It is well-known that the quantum linear response theory is based on the first-order perturbation theory for a system in thermal equilibrium. Hence, this theory breaks down when the system is in a steady state far from thermal equilibrium and the response up to higher order in perturbation is not negligible. In this paper, we develop a nonlinear response theory for such quantum open system. We first formulate this theory in terms of general susceptibility, after which we apply it to the derivation of Hall conductance for open system at finite temperature. As an example, the Hall conductance of the two-band model is derived. Then we calculate the Hall conductance for a two-dimensional ferromagnetic electron gas and a two-dimensional lattice model. The calculations show that the transition points of topological phase are robust against the environment. Our results provide a promising platform for the coherent manipulation of the nonlinear response in quantum open system, which has potential applications for quantum information processing and statistical physics.

Clinical analysis on application of color Doppler echocardiographic in cortriatrium diagnosis

OBJECTIVE

Discuss the main points of diagnosis of cortriatrium; patient's color Doppler echocardiography (CDE), provide basis for clinical treatment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Inspect 12 cortriatrium cases with CDE, 10 cases with cardiovascular angiography, 12 patients were confirmed by operation. Operations were all carried out under the moderate hypothermia cardiopulmonary bypass with intracardiac correction technique. Abnormal diaphragm in the left a trial was completely removed, and other combined heart malformations were also cured.

RESULTS

Four cases for II A type, 1 case for II B type, 6 cases for II A type, 1 case for II B type. Among them, there were 7 cases for combined atrial septal defect, 5 cases for ventricular septal defect, 3 cases for patent ductus arteriosus, 6 cases for pulmonary arterial hypertension. Twelve children all survived, deformity correction was satisfactory, and after operation, recovery went on well in 6 months to 3 years.

CONCLUSIONS

CDE has specific diagnostic value for cortriatrium; thus, it is the optimal method of diagnosing cortriatrium.