Interaction of smoking and aging on emphysema and small airways disease in asymptomatic healthy men by CT-based parametric response mapping analysis

AIM

To explore whether small airway disease and emphysema were affected by the interaction between smoking and aging on chest computed tomography (CT) images of asymptomatic healthy men analysed using a quantitative imaging tool parametric response mapping (PRM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this retrospective study, 95 asymptomatic healthy men underwent biphasic chest CT. The PRM classifies lung as a percentage of normal (PRMNormal%), functional small airway disease (PRMfSAD%), and emphysema (PRMEmph%). The patients were divided into groups based on their age and smoking status. Multiple linear regression analysis was applied to explore the factors influencing lung injury. Simple effects analysis was performed to explore the interaction between different age groups and smoking status.

RESULTS

The interaction between aging and smoking significantly affected PRMfSAD% and PRMEmph% (p<0.001). The age range 60-69 and smoking were associated with increased PRMfSAD% and PRMEmph% (p<0.05). Futher stratification into different age subgroups showed that smoking was associated with increased PRMfSAD% and PRMEmph% in the 50-59 year age group. Besides, smoking in the 50-59 and 60-69 years group was associated with decreased PRMNormal%, while smoking in the 60-69 years group did not significantly influence the prevalence of PRMfSAD% and PRMEmph% (p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

PRM reveals the interplay between smoking and aging in the development of lung injury in asymptomatic healthy men. Aging and smoking are important factors of emphysema and small airway disease in the 50-69 years group. In the 60-69 years group, aging poses a greater risk of lung injury compared to smoking.

[Clinical efficacy and safety analysis of 125I seed implantation in the treatment of mediastinal lymph node metastasis of lung cancer]

Objective: To investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of ¹²⁵I seed implantation in the treatment of mediastinal lymph node metastasis of lung cancer. Methods: Clinical data of 36 patients who underwent CT-guided ¹²⁵I seed implantation for mediastinal lymph node metastasis of lung cancer from August 2013 to April 2020 in three hospitals of the Northern radioactive particle implantation treatment collaboration group were retrospectively collected, including 24 males and 12 females, aged 46 to 84 years. Cox regression model was used to analyze the relationship between local control rate, survival rate and tumor stage, pathological type, postoperative D90, postoperative D100 and other variables, and to analyze the occurrence of complications. Results: The objective response rate of CT-guided ¹²⁵I seed implantation in the treatment of mediastinal lymph node metastasis of lung cancer was 75% (27/36), the median control time was 12 months, the 1-year local control rate was 47.2% (17/36), and the median survival time was 17 months. The 1-year and 2-year survival rates were 61.1% (22/36) and 22.2% (8/36) respectively. Univariate analysis showed that in the treatment of mediastinal lymph node metastasis with CT-guided ¹²⁵I implantation, factors related to local control included tumor stage (HR=5.246, 95%CI: 2.243-12.268, P<0.001), postoperative D90 (HR=0.191, 95%CI: 0.085-0.431, P<0.001), postoperative D100 (HR=0.240, 95%CI: 0.108-0.533, P<0.001); The factors affecting survival were tumor stage (HR=2.712, 95%CI: 1.356-5.425, P=0.005), postoperative D90 (HR=0.110, 95%CI: 0.041-0.294, P<0.001), postoperative D100 (HR=0.212, 95%CI: 0.092-0.489, P<0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that tumor stage (HR=5.305, 95%CI: 2.187-12.872, P<0.001) and postoperative D100 (HR=0.237, 95%CI: 0.099-0.568, P<0.001) were correlated with local control rate. Tumor stage (HR=2.347, 95%CI: 1.095-5.032, P=0.028) and postoperative D90 (HR=0.144, 95%CI: 0.051-0.410, P<0.001) were correlated with survival. In terms of complications, 9 of the 36 patients had pneumothorax, and 1 of them was cured by closed thoracic drainage for severe pneumothorax; 5 cases developed pulmonary hemorrhage and 5 cases developed hemoptysis, which recovered after hemostasis treatment. One case developed pulmonary infection and recovered after anti-inflammatory treatment. No radiation esophagitis and radiation pneumonia occurred; No grade 3 or higher complications occurred. Conclusion: ¹²⁵I seed implantation in the treatment of lung cancer mediastinal lymph node metastasis has a high local control rate and controllable adverse effects.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of acupuncture combined with Tuina in the treatment of insomnia

BACKGROUND

Insomnia is a sleep disorder with insufficient sleep time or/and poor sleep quality. Relevant epidemiological studies have shown that insomnia symptoms occur in about 35% to 50% of the adult population, and it is one of the most common diseases in the elderly. Patients who often suffer from insomnia are prone to symptoms such as fatigue, weakened cognitive function, depression, and even mental illness, which bring serious physical and mental damage to individuals and a heavy economic burden to social medical care and families. Traditional Chinese medicine and modern medicine have their own advantages in the treatment of insomnia, and there is currently a lack of reports on the comparison of acupuncture combined with massage and conventional medicine.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of acupuncture combined with Tuina in the treatment of insomnia.

METHODS

Search for clinical randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of acupuncture combined with Tuina in the treatment of insomnia from PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wan Fang Database, and China Science and Technology Journal Database. The RevMan5.4 software was used for Meta- analysis after literature screening, data extraction and quality evaluation.

RESULTS

A total of 29 studies were included with a total of 2688 cases. Compared with drugs or acupuncture alone, acupuncture combined with Tuina has advantages in the total clinical effectiveness, as well as the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Statistical Self-Rating Anxiety Scale score (SAS) (OR = 3.59, 95% confidence interval [CI] [2.77, 4.66], Z = 9.62 [P < .00001]) (MD = -2.44, 95% CI [-2.93, -1.95], Z = 9.72 [P < .00001]) (MD = -8.42, 95% CI [-10.23, -6.61], Z = 9.09 [P < .00001]). There was no statistically significant difference in Statistical Self-rating Depression Scale score (SDS) (MD = -5.26, 95% CI [-11.29, 0.78], Z = 1.71 [P > .05]).

CONCLUSION

Acupuncture combined with Tuina has obvious clinical advantages in the treatment of insomnia. This result is expected to provide a reference for the clinical treatment of insomnia, but the long-term effect of clinical efficacy still needs further study.

[Mutational features of immunoglobulin heavy chain variable region gene in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia]

Objective: To investigate the mutational features of the immunoglobulin heavy chain variable region (IgHV) gene in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) using immunophenotypic and molecular genetic methods. Methods: The laboratory results of 266 CLL patients who underwent IgHV gene examination at Sino-US diagnostics laboratory from February 2020 to February 2021 were analyzed for the IgVH mutational status and presence of specific IgVH fragments. In addition, their immunophenotypic, molecular, chromosomal karyotypic, and FISH profiles were investigated and correlated with the IgVH mutational status. Results: Among 266 patients, 172 were male and 94 were female, with a media age of 67 years (20-82 years).There were more patients with mutated IgHV (m-IgHV) than unmutated IgHV (un-IgHV) (69.2%∶30.8%). There was association of VH family and the presence of gene fragments: the overall incidence of VH families including VH3 family (142/266, 53.4%), VH4 family (75/266, 28.2%), and VH1 family (34/266, 12.8%) was about 95%, among which the proportion of VH4-34 (26/266, 9.8%), VH3-23 (25/266, 9.4%), VH3-7 (24/266, 9.0%), and VH4-39 (16/266, 6.0%) was about 35%. VH3-20 and VH3-49 only occurred in un-IgHV (P<0.05). In addition, the expression rates of CD38 (26.3% vs. 3.0%), CD79b (71.1%∶45.5%) and 11q deletion (25.5%∶5.3%) were higher in un-IgHV, and single trisomy 12 (37.9%∶5.6%) were more commonly found in m-IgHV (P<0.05). MYD88 was one of the major mutation genes in m-IgHV, while ATM had the highest mutation rate in un-IgHV. Conclusion: CLL patients have differential expression in terms of IgHV gene mutations, correlating to their immunophenotype and genetics characteristics.

[Mechanism of pepsin promoting lingual tonsil hypertrophy by stimulating macrophage]

Objective: To investigate the possible pathophysiological mechanism of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) in the development of lingual tonsil hypertrophy (LTH). Methods: The lingual tonsil tissues were collected from 73 patients [48 males and 25 females, aged from 24 to 76 (52.86±12.04) years] who underwent surgery for laryngopharyngeal diseases at the Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Southern Hospital of Southern Medical University from October 2019 to December 2020, and the lingual tonsil grade (LTG), reflux symptom index (RSI) and reflux finding score (RFS) were assessed. The expression of pepsin in LTH was detected by immunohistochemistry. The coexpression of pepsin and macrophages were detected by immunohistofluorescence. In vitro, cytological experiments and pathway assays were performed on macrophages stimulated by pepsin. Pathway alterations of macrophages in pepsin-positive high-grade LTH were detected by double-fluorescence immunohistochemistry. Data were analyzed by SPSS 20.0 software. Results: There were 44 clinically significant LPRD patients with LTG 3 and 4, and the pepsin positive rate was 88.6% (39/44). While, the pepsin positive rate of LTG 1 and 2 was 48.3% (14/29). LTG was significantly positively correlated with RFS/RSI positive rate(χ²=23.01/19.62, P<0.001/0.001; r=0.54/0.51, P<0.001/0.001) and pepsin tissue staining intensity (H=21.58, P<0.001; r=0.53, P<0.001), respectively. Pepsin and macrophages were clearly colocalized in high grade LTH. In vitro, pepsin promoted macrophage proliferation (P<0.05) and production of IL-6/IL-8 (P<0.05). Pepsin significantly up-regulated the p38/JNK MAPK pathway in macrophages (P<0.05). Pepsin up-regulated the expression of IL-6 and IL-8 of macrophages by activating the p38 MAPK pathway (P<0.05), and up-regulated the expression of IL-8 by activating the JNK pathway (P<0.05). The p38/JNK MAPK pathways were highly expressed in macrophages of pepsin-positive LTH (P<0.05). Conclusions: LPR is an important pathogenic factor in LTH. Macrophages may mediate pepsin-induced inflammation and the pathogenesis of LTH.

Accurate elemental analysis with variant one-point calibration laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy capable of using analytical lines with unknown transition probabilities

Calibration-free laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (CF-LIBS) is a very useful elemental analysis technique. However, it requires knowledge of transition probabilities of the analytical lines. To solve this problem, a variant one-point calibration (OPC) LIBS method was proposed. Quantitative elemental analysis on Cu-Zn-Ag-Au alloys was realized with this method capable of using zinc analytical lines with unknown transition probabilities. The relative error was demonstrated to be less than 3.3%. This variant OPC method will be helpful for quantitative elemental analysis of different samples using CF-LIBS, no matter whether the transition probabilities of the observed lines are known or unknown.

[Characteristics of fusion gene expression in acute lymphoblastic leukemia]

Objective: To analyze the genetic landscape of 52 fusion genes in patients with de novo acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and to investigate the characteristics of other laboratory results. Methods: The fusion gene expression was retrospectively analyzed in the 1 994 patients with de novo ALL diagnosed from September 2016 to December 2020. In addition, their mutational, immunophenotypical and karyotypical profiles were investigated. Results: In the 1 994 patients with ALL, the median age was 12 years (from 15 days to 89 years). In the panel of targeted genes, 15 different types of fusion genes were detected in 884 patients (44.33%) and demonstrated a Power law distribution. The frequency of detectable fusion genes in B-cell ALL was significantly higher than that in T-cell ALL (48.48% vs 18.71%), and fusion genes were almost exclusively expressed in B-cell ALL or T-cell ALL. The number of fusion genes showed peaks at<1 year, 3-5 years and 35-44 years, respectively. More fusion genes were identified in children than in adults. MLL-FG was most frequently seen in infants and TEL-AML1 was most commonly seen in children, while BCR-ABL1 was dominant in adults. The majority of fusion gene mutations involved signaling pathway and the most frequent mutations were observed in NRAS and KRAS genes. The expression of early-stage B-cell antigens varied in B-cell ALL patients. The complex karyotypes were more common in BCR-ABL1 positive patients than others. Conclusion: The distribution of fusion genes in ALL patients differs by ages and cell lineages. It also corresponds to various gene mutations, immunophenotypes, and karyotypes.

[Controlling excessive fluid resuscitation in massive burn patients to prevent complications]

Excessive fluid resuscitation in massive burn patients is a common phenomenon in burn management, and the reasons are mostly related with administering resuscitation of crystalloid alone and pursuing a goal-directed resuscitation with targeting normal hemodynamic parameters in the first 24 h post burn. Tissue edema caused by excessive fluid resuscitation is a vital factor that induces complications including respiratory compromise, abdominal compartment syndrome, and so on. Therefore, in order to control excessive fluid resuscitation and prevent its subsequent complications in massive burn patients, it is necessary to determine the optimal resuscitation regime, set appropriate resuscitation endpoints, and implement precise management of fluid resuscitation.

[Analysis of fusion gene expression in acute myeloid leukemia]

Objective: To analyze the genetic landscape of multiple fusion genes in patients with de novo acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and investigate the characteristics of immunophenotypes and mutations. Methods: The results of multiple fusion genes from 4192 patients with de novo AML were retrospectively analyzed from 2016 to 2020. In addition, the immunophenotypical data and the mutational results from high-through put method were statistically investigated and correlated as well. Results: ①Among the 52 targets, 29 different types of fusion genes were detected in 1948 patients (46.47%) with AML, which demonstrated an "exponential distribution" . ② As the age increased, the number of patients with fusion gene increased first and then decreased gradually. The total incidence rate of fusion genes and MLL rearrangment in children were significantly higher than those in adults (69.18% vs 44.76%, 15.35% vs 8.36%) . ③The mutations involving FLT3 and RAS signaling pathway contributed most in patients with MLL rearrangment. ④No specific immunophenotypic characteristics were found in AML patients with MLL or NUP98 rearrangements. Conclusion: Nearly half of AML patients were accompanied by specific fusion gene expression, the proportions of different fusion genes in pediatric and adults patients were different by multiple PCR. The gene mutations and immunophenotype of these AML patients have certain rules.

Inhibitory effect of different chicken-derived lactic acid bacteria isolates on drug resistant Salmonella SE47 isolated from eggs

Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) regulate and maintain the stability of healthy microbial flora, inhibit the adhesion of pathogenic bacteria and promote the colonization of beneficial micro-organisms. The drug resistance and pathogenicity of Salmonella enteritis SE47 isolated from retail eggs were investigated. Meanwhile, Enterococcus faecalis L76 and Lactobacillus salivarius LAB35 were isolated from intestine of chicken. With SE47 as indicator bacteria, the diameters of L76 and LAB35 inhibition zones were 12 mm and 8·5 mm, respectively, by agar inhibition circle method, which indicated that both of them had inhibitory effect on Salmonella, and L76 had better antibacterial effect; two chicken-derived lactic acid bacteria isolates and Salmonella SE47 were incubated with Caco-2. The adhesion index of L76 was 17·5%, which was much higher than that of LAB35 (10·21%) and SE47 (4·89%), this experiment shows that the higher the bacteriostatic effect of potential probiotics, the stronger the adhesion ability; then Caco-2 cells were incubated with different bacteria, and the survival of Caco-2 cells was observed by flow cytometry. Compared with Salmonella SE47, the results showed that lactic acid bacteria isolates could effectively protect Caco-2 cells; finally, after different bacteria incubated Caco-2 cells, according to the cytokine detection kit, the RNA of Caco-2 cells was extracted and transcribed into cDNA, then detected by fluorescence quantitative PCR, the results showed that L76 could protect Caco-2 cells from the invasion of Salmonella SE47, with less cell membrane rupture and lower expression of MIF and TNF genes. Therefore, the lactic acid bacteria isolates can effectively inhibit the adhesion of Salmonella and protect the integrity of intestinal barrier.

[Staging of occupational medicamentosa-like dermatitis due to trichloroethylene]

Objective: To explor staging of the general course of occupational medicamentosa-like dermatitis due to trichloroethylene (OMDT) to better understand the characteristics of OMDT course, and to provide reference for clinical diagnosis and treatment and related studies. Methods: We collected main clinical manifestation and auxiliary examination data during hospitalization to May 2019 from 35 OMDT patients with complete course record who were hospitalized from January 2014 to December 2018. Continuous monitoring indicators with changing trends including main clinical manifestation indicators, peripheral white blood cell counts, liver function indicators such as serum alanine aminotransferase activity, myocardial enzyme indicators such as serum lactate dehydrogenase activity were selected and used with their standardized values to do cluster analysis on time point (week as unit) of the course of each patient. The clustering results combined with changing trends of the indicators were used to determine the stages of course of each patient, and therefore the staging of general course of OMDT was calculated. Positive rates or average levels of the indicators were compared between different stages, and the correlation of duration of each stage was analyzed with physical characteristics, disease characteristics and treatment measures of the patients. Results: General course of OMDT could be divided into acute phase (3.0±1.5) weeks and chronic phase (11.0±4.4) weeks, while chronic phase could be further divided into early period (5.0±3.0) weeks and later period (6.5±3.7) weeks. Compared with chronic phase, clinical manifestation indicators, white blood cell counts (except eosinophil count) , liver function indicators (except total protein and albumin concentration) , and myocardial enzyme indicators were all increased (all P<0.01) , while total protein and albumin concentration decreased (P<0.05 and P<0.01, respectively) in acute phase. Compared with later period of the chronic phase, clinical manifestation indicators (except fever) , white blood cell counts (except lymphocyte count) , liver function indicators (except total protein and albumin concentration) , and creatine kinase isoenzyme activity were all increased (all P<0.01) , while total protein, albumin concentration and creatine kinase activity decreased (all P<0.01) . Duration of acute phase were positively correlated with the time before glucocorticoid treatment (r(spearman)=0.62, P(adjust)<0.01) , and early and later periods of chronic phase were both positively correlated with corresponding duration of glucocorticoid treatment (r(spearman)=0.96, P(adjust)<0.01, r(spearman)=0.91, P(adjust)<0.01, respectively) . Conclusion: For the first time, the study objectively determined stages of general course of OMDT based on combination of multiple indicators, and analyzed characteristics of main indicators in each phase and potential factors related to the duration of each phase.

[A pathological report of three COVID-19 cases by minimal invasive autopsies]

Objective: To investigate the pathological characteristics and the clinical significance of novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV)-infected pneumonia (termed by WHO as coronavirus disease 2019, COVID-19). Methods: Minimally invasive autopsies from lung, heart, kidney, spleen, bone marrow, liver, pancreas, stomach, intestine, thyroid and skin were performed on three patients died of novel coronavirus pneumonia in Chongqing, China. Hematoxylin and eosin staining (HE), transmission electron microcopy, and histochemical staining were performed to investigate the pathological changes of indicated organs or tissues. Immunohistochemical staining was conducted to evaluate the infiltration of immune cells as well as the expression of 2019-nCoV proteins. Real time PCR was carried out to detect the RNA of 2019-nCoV. Results: Various damages were observed in the alveolar structure, with minor serous exudation and fibrin exudation. Hyaline membrane formation was observed in some alveoli. The infiltrated immune cells in alveoli were majorly macrophages and monocytes. Moderate multinucleated giant cells, minimal lymphocytes, eosinophils and neutrophils were also observed. Most of infiltrated lymphocytes were CD4-positive T cells. Significant proliferation of type Ⅱ alveolar epithelia and focal desquamation of alveolar epithelia were also indicated. The blood vessels of alveolar septum were congested, edematous and widened, with modest infiltration of monocytes and lymphocytes. Hyaline thrombi were found in a minority of microvessels. Focal hemorrhage in lung tissue, organization of exudates in some alveolar cavities, and pulmonary interstitial fibrosis were observed. Part of the bronchial epithelia were exfoliated. Coronavirus particles in bronchial mucosal epithelia and type Ⅱ alveolar epithelia were observed under electron microscope. Immunohistochemical staining showed that part of the alveolar epithelia and macrophages were positive for 2019-nCoV antigen. Real time PCR analyses identified positive signals for 2019-nCoV nucleic acid. Decreased numbers of lymphocyte, cell degeneration and necrosis were observed in spleen. Furthermore, degeneration and necrosis of parenchymal cells, formation of hyaline thrombus in small vessels, and pathological changes of chronic diseases were observed in other organs and tissues, while no evidence of coronavirus infection was observed in these organs. Conclusions: The lungs from novel coronavirus pneumonia patients manifest significant pathological lesions, including the alveolar exudative inflammation and interstitial inflammation, alveolar epithelium proliferation and hyaline membrane formation. While the 2019-nCoV is mainly distributed in lung, the infection also involves in the damages of heart, vessels, liver, kidney and other organs. Further studies are warranted to investigate the mechanism underlying pathological changes of this disease.

[Expression and significance of serum insulin-like growth factor-1 in patients with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome]

Objective:To investigate the expression and significance of serum insulinlike growth factor-1(IGF-1) in adult patients with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome(OSAHS).Method:One hundred and seven patients of OSAHS diagnosed with PSG were included in the observation group，which were divided into heavy, medium and light group according to AHI.Fifty case of healthy people without OSAHS were included in control group.Serum IGF-1 were measured by ELISA. Thirty patients of heavy OSAHS received surgery and CPAP treatment for three months,and were retested the levels of IGF-1 and PSG six months later.Result:①With the increase of OSAHS severity, the levels of serum IGF-1 were gradually decreased (F=37.732,P<0.01). There was no significant difference between mild group and healthy people (P>0.05), while there was significant differences between the remaining groups (P<0.01). ②Serum IGF-1 level has no correlation with BMI and age in OSAHS patients(P>0.05), and negatively correlated with LSaO₂,and positively correlated with AHI (P<0.01). ③Serum IGF-1 level［(46.56±3.74)μg/L］ increased slightly compared with those before treatment［(42.79±4.87）μg/L］ in 30 severe patients after treatment with 3 months CPAP and regimen (P<0.01). Serum IGF-1 level［(56.61±5.46)μg/L］ increased significantly after treatment for six months; AHI level (18.72±7.36) was significantly lower than that before treatment (48.77±10.51), and LSaO₂［(87.42±8.61)%］ increased significantly than that before treatment［(68.33±10.24)%］.Conclusion:OSAHS patients with decreased serum IGF-1 level may be associated with concurrent insulin resistance. Surgery combined with more than half a year of CPAP treatment can significantly reduce AHI, improve the level of LSaO₂ and serum IGF-1. Serum IGF-1 levels could be used as a monitor of efficacy evaluation.

[Detection of HLA-B*13:01 gene by dual allele-specific real-time polymerase chain reaction in patients with trichlorethylene-induced dermatitis]

Objective: To investigate the detection of a human leukocyte antigen-B (HLA-B) allele HLA-B*13:01 by dual allele-specific real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in patients with trichlorethylene-induced dermatitis. Methods: A total of 20 patients with trichlorethylene-induced dermatitis who were admitted and treated from January 2014 to October 2016 were enrolled as case group, and 20 persons who underwent physical examination from January to October, 2016 were enrolled as control group. Peripheral cubital venous blood samples were collected from all subjects, and dual allele-specific real-time PCR was used to detect the HLA-B*13:01 gene. The two groups were compared in terms of the proportion of subjects carrying HLA-B*13:01 gene. Results: There were no significant differences between the case group and the control group in median age (25.0 years vs 27.0 years, Z=0.30, P>0.05) and the proportion of male subjects (60.0% vs 70.0%, χ(2)=0.44, P>0.05) . The mean time of exposure to trichloroethylene was 30.8 days in the case group, while the subjects in the control group were not exposed to trichloroethylene. The case group had a significantly higher frequency of HLA-B*13:01 gene than the control group (80.0% vs 20.0%, χ(2)=14.40, P<0.01) with an odds ratio of 16.00. Conclusion: Dual allele-specific real-time PCR can be used for detection of the HLA-B*13:01 gene in patients with trichlorethylene-induced dermatitis.

Blood service in the Tibetan regions of Garzê and Aba, China: a longitudinal survey

BACKGROUND

Garzê and Aba form the second largest Tibetan-inhabited area of China. Blood services have never been reported for this region before.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the current situation and analyse whether a safe and adequate blood supply has been developed in both Garzê and Aba.

METHODS

We conducted a longitudinal survey covering the period 2011-2016. The subjects of interest were recruited from non-remunerated voluntary donation, blood testing, clinical transfusion practices and infrastructure of local blood service systems.

RESULTS

The donation rate and blood collection volume were below the average levels of both the Sichuan Province and mainland China. Component therapy was widely used, but inappropriate usage of whole blood existed. A lack of national specific standards for people on the plateaus led to local blood transfusions being conducted without full clinical assessment. Endemic and frequently occurring disease, such as hydatid disease and gastrointestinal disease, were inevitable risks for blood utilisation and safety. The potential influence of religious belief and traditions, like 'male-leaving marriages', of Tibetans on donor recruitment and blood safety requires further research.

CONCLUSIONS

A relatively safe and complete blood service system has been developed in this region. However, there is still an urgent need for comprehensive and effective support from the government in terms of policies and finance. As an epidemic area of hydatid disease and sexually transmitted disease, this region needs to emphasise public health measures, such as blood safety and inappropriate usage of blood products.

[Effects of transient exposure to high glucose on biological behaviors of human dermal microvascular endothelial cells]

Objective: To observe the effects of transient exposure to high glucose on biological behaviors of human dermal microvascular endothelial cells cultured in vitro. Methods: The dividing method and treatment of cells for the detection of all indexes in this study were as follows. Human dermal microvascular endothelial cells of the 4th passage were divided into 3 groups according to the random number table, with 12 wells in each group. Cells in control group (C) were cultured with complete culture solution containing 5 mmol/L D-glucose for 7 d. Cells in transient high glucose group (THG) were cultured with complete culture solution containing 30 mmol/L D-glucose for 2 d and complete culture solution containing 5 mmol/L D-glucose for 5 d. Cells in prolonged high glucose group (PHG) were cultured with complete culture solution containing 30 mmol/L D-glucose for 7 d. (1) The cell morphology in groups C and PHG on culture day 7 and that in group THG on culture day 2 and 7 was observed by inverted optical microscope. (2) On culture day 0, 2, 4, and 7, cell proliferation rate was determined by cell viability analyzing counter. (3) After culture day 2, the scratch experiment was performed, and the cells were further cultured. At post scratch hour (PSH) 0, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120, the scratch area was measured, and the cell migration rates of the latter 5 time points were calculated. (4) On culture day 0, 2, 4, and 7, the cell apoptosis rate was determined by cell analyzer. (5) Cells were seeded into Matrigel to culture for 24 h after culture day 7. The formation of vessel-like structure was observed by inverted optical microscope. The length and number of branch point of vessel-like structure were calculated. (6) On culture day 2, 4, and 7, mRNA expression of vascularization-related gene tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-3 (TIMP-3) was determined with real-time fluorescent quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Data were processed with analysis of variance of factorial design, analysis of variance for repeated measurement, one-way analysis of variance, and LSD test. Results: (1) Cells in group C exhibited ovary shape in cobble stone order on culture day 7. Cells in group THG exhibited long ovary shape and lost cobble stone order on culture day 2 and kept the same changes on culture day 7. Cells in group PHG exhibited long ovary shape and lost cobble stone order on culture day 7. (2) On culture day 0, there was no significant difference in cell proliferation rate among the 3 groups (F=0.23, P>0.05). On culture day 2, cell proliferation rates in groups THG and PHG were similar (P>0.05), which were significantly lower than the cell proliferation rate in group C (with P values below 0.01). On culture day 4 and 7, the cell proliferation rates in groups THG and C were similar (with P values above 0.05), which were significantly higher than those in group PHG (with P values below 0.01). (3) At PSH 24-120, the cell migration rates in groups THG and PHG were similar (with P values above 0.05), which were significantly lower than those in group C (with P values below 0.01). (4) On culture day 0, there was no statistically significant difference in cell apoptosis rate among the 3 groups (F=0.78, P>0.05). On culture day 2, cell apoptosis rates in groups THG and PHG were similar (P>0.05), which were significantly higher than the cell apoptosis rate in group C (with P values below 0.01). On culture day 4 and 7, the cell apoptosis rates in groups THG and C were similar (with P values above 0.05), which were significantly lower than those in group PHG (with P values below 0.01). (5) The length of vessel-like structure of cells in group THG was (1.84±0.10)×10(5) μm, close to (1.82±0.11)×10(5) μm in group PHG (P>0.05), both significantly shorter than (2.75±0.23)×10(5) μm in group C (with P values below 0.01). The numbers of branch point of vessel-like structure of cells in groups THG and PHG were 43±5 and 46±8 respectively, which were close to each other (P>0.05) and both significantly less than 103±21 in group C (with P values below 0.01). (6) On culture day 2, 4, and 7, mRNA expressions of TIMP-3 of cells in groups THG and PHG were similar (with P values above 0.05), which were significantly lower than those in group C (with P values below 0.05). Conclusions: Transient exposure to high glucose can cause metabolic memory of morphology, migration, and angiogenesis in human dermal microvascular endothelial cells cultured in vitro, resulting in sustained changes in biological behaviors. The mechanism may be related to the changes of vascularization-related genes.

[Clinical observation on human alpha glucosidase in treatment of five patients with glycogen storage disease Ⅱ]

Objective: To evaluate the effect of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) on glycogen storage disease typeⅡ(GSDⅡ). Method: The clinical data of three juvenile onset and two infant onset GSDⅡpatients were collected from First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University in October 2015 to July 2016.Patient 1 was female, the age of onset was 15 months. Patient 2 was male, the age of onset was 20 months. Patient 3 was female, the sister of patient 2, the age of onset was 47 months. Patient 4 was male, the age of onset was 5 months. Patient 5 was male, the age of onset was 1 month.The age at the start of ERT of the 5 patients was 32, 31, 56, 34, and 3 months respectively and the duration of ERT was 19, 9, 4, 5, 5 doses respectively.ERT was administered at 20 mg/kg every 2 weeks.Dexamethasone was regularly given before each infusion. Result: ERT was well tolerated, only one time, Patient 1 developed tachycardia and hypertension without using dexamethasone.Patient 2 underwent successfully ventilator weaning.Patient 1 underwent a tracheotomy, also needed mechanical ventilation treatment.Patient 4 noninvasive ventilation was tried. Conclusion: Recombinant human alpha-glucosidase treatment was effective and well tolerated in patients with GSDⅡ.

Detection of quantitative trait loci for kernel oil and protein concentration in a B73 and Zheng58 maize cross

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important food crops throughout the world, and provides oil and proteins to humans and livestock. Kernel oil and protein content in maize are two complex quantitative traits. In order to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) controlling oil and protein concentration in maize kernels, and to evaluate their genetic effects, QTL analysis was conducted on an F3:4 population derived from a cross between an inbred line with a low oil and protein concentration (Zheng58) and an inbred line with a higher oil and protein concentration (B73). A total of 189 polymorphic simple sequence repeat markers were used to construct a linkage map. Eleven QTLs for kernel oil concentration were detected on nine chromosomes, except for chromosome 9. A single QTL explained 4.6 to 11.1% of the phenotypic variance. Ten QTLs for kernel protein concentration were also detected on nine chromosomes, except for chromosome 9. A single QTL explained 4.2 to 11.4% of the phenotypic variance. Interestingly, novel QTLs for oil concentration (qOIL08-01 and qOIL10-01) and QTLs for protein concentration (qPRO01-01 and qPRO05-01) were specific to the population studied, which could explain 7.1 to 11.1% of the phenotypic variance. These results will provide better understanding of the genetic basis of oil and protein concentrations in maize. The markers closely linked with the QTLs will facilitate breeding of maize varieties with high oil and protein concentrations through molecular marker-assisted selection.

Correlation between natriuretic peptide receptor C (NPR3) gene polymorphisms and hypertension in the Dai people of China

Hypertension affects one-fifth of the world population. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that correlated with hyper-tension in large samples. However, the genetic mutations leading to hypertension might differ among various populations, as they have different origins and are subjected to different environmental pressures. Therefore, additional studies are urgently needed to verify the GWAS findings across different populations. This study focused on the natriuretic peptide receptor C gene (NPR3), one of the hypertension-positive genes identified in a GWAS of an East Asian population. The correlation analysis between NPR3 and hypertension was replicated in 450 Chinese Dai (235 patients vs 215 controls) and 484 Chinese Mongolian (211 patients vs 273 controls) individuals. The positive SNP identified by GWAS analysis and three other tag SNPs representing the NPR3 linkage disequilibrium (LD) block regions were selected for genotyping. The results revealed that the rs1173766 polymorphism was associated with the occurrence of hypertension (χ(2) = 6.87, P = 0.0088), and that the T allele should be protective in the Dai ethnic group. Consider-ing a close LD block at the 3' end of the NPR3 gene in the East Asian population, we speculate that there might be a mutation in the last five exons or the 3' untranslated region of NPR3 that could change the structure or expression of the NPR3 gene. However, in the Mongolian ethnic group, these SNPs were not associated with the incidence of hypertension, suggesting population heterogeneity for the genetic factors that contribute to hypertension.

Implementation of the scale factor balance on two pairs of quartz-flexure capacitive accelerometers by trimming bias voltage

Gravity gradient measurement makes use of the difference between the outputs of pairs of linear accelerometers, which results in cancelling out the common mode accelerations caused by mounting platform and external environment. One of the key technologies is to match the acceleration-to-voltage or acceleration-to-current transfer functions of the pairs of the accelerometers to an extremely high degree of accuracy. The differential signals then make the gravity gradients observable. By using two pairs of the quartz-flexure accelerometers with a capacitive sensing and electrostatic closed-loop control, the electrostatic control bias voltages were trimming remotely and automatically in real time. Each pair of accelerometers was matched individually and then all four accelerometers were finally re-balanced. The experimental results show that the consistency of five digits is achieved at a noise level of ~5×10(-8) g/√Hz (1 g ≈ 9.8 m/s(2)) and the scale factors ranging from 0.25 to 0.32 V/mg. Further improvement to the achieved level of matching is limited by the intrinsic noise of the accelerometers used.

The new P2Y-like receptor G protein-coupled receptor 17 mediates acute neuronal injury and late microgliosis after focal cerebral ischemia in rats

G protein-coupled receptor 17 (GPR17), the new P2Y-like receptor, is phylogenetically related to the P2Y and cysteinyl leukotriene receptors, and responds to both uracil nucleotides and cysteinyl leukotrienes. GPR17 has been proposed to be a damage sensor in ischemic stroke; however, its role in brain inflammation needs further detailed investigation. Here, we extended previous studies on the spatiotemporal profiles of GPR17 expression and localization, and their implications for brain injury after focal cerebral ischemia. We found that in the ischemic core, GPR17 mRNA and protein levels were upregulated at both 12-24 h and 7-14 days, but in the boundary zone the levels increased 7-14 days after reperfusion. The spatiotemporal pattern of GPR17 expression well matched the acute and late (subacute/chronic) responses in the ischemic brain. According to previous findings, in the acute phase, after ischemia (24 h), upregulated GPR17 was localized in injured neurons in the ischemic core and in a few microglia in the ischemic core and boundary zone. In the late phase (14 days), it was localized in microglia, especially in activated (ED1-positive) microglia in the ischemic core, but weakly in most microglia in the boundary zone. No GPR17 was detectable in astrocytes. GPR17 knockdown by a small interfering RNA attenuated the neurological dysfunction, infarction, and neuron loss at 24 h, and brain atrophy, neuron loss, and microglial activation at 14 days after reperfusion. Thus, GPR17 might mediate acute neuronal injury and late microgliosis after focal cerebral ischemia.

Genetic link among Hani, Bulang and other Southeast Asian populations: evidence from HLA -A, -B, -C, -DRB1 genes and haplotypes distribution

Human leucocyte antigen (HLA) genetic characteristic of different ethnic minorities would be useful for tracing the origin of modern human HLA matching in transplantation and disease associations. In this study, we reported HLA-A, -B, -C and -DRB1 alleles and haplotypes in the Bulang and Hani populations of southwestern China using a high-resolution polymerase chain reaction-Luminex (PCR-Luminex) typing method. A total of nine HLA-A, 22 HLA-B, 13 HLA-C and 18 HLA-DRB1 alleles were identified in the Bulang population, and 11 HLA-A, 25 HLA-B, 14 HLA-C and 19 HLA-DRB1 alleles were in the Hani population. Compared with other populations, the predominant A*1101-B*1502-DRB1*1202 haplotype in the Bulang and Hani populations was also common in Jinuo, Wa, Dai, Maonan and Vietnamese populations. The distribution of HLA genes indicate that Bulang and Hani populations belong to the Southeast Asia group and they have maintained their original genetic characteristics and kept a long genetic distance from other populations owing to founder effects and subsequent geographic isolation. In addition, the close relationship among ethnic groups in Yunnan province and the Thai and Vietnamese populations were confirmed, whereas the Mon-Kmer-speaking populations shared other common HLA alleles and haplotypes compared with other linguistic groups.

Polymorphisms of human leucocyte antigen genes in Maonan people in China

We examined human leucocyte antigen (HLA) gene polymorphisms in the Maonan people from southern China. HLA‐A, ‐B and ‐DRB1 alleles were determined in 108 healthy unrelated Maonan individuals by the polymerase chain reaction‐Luminex method, and haplotype frequencies for HLA‐A, ‐B and ‐DRB1 loci were estimated. The most frequent HLA‐A alleles were A*1101 (35.2%), A*0203 (17.6%), A*0207 (13.4%) and A*2402 (13.4%); HLA‐B alleles were B*1301(19.9%), B*1502 (14.8%), B*4601 (13.4%) and B*4001 (13.4%); HLA‐DRB1 alleles were DRB1*1202 (17.1%), DRB1*1602 (13.0%) and DRB1*1401 (10.7%). The most common haplotypes were A*0207‐B*4601 (10.6%), A*1101‐B*1301 (10.0%), A*1101‐B*4001 (8.4%), B*1502‐DRB1*1202 (12.0%), B*4601‐DRB1*1401 (5.8%), A*1101‐B*1502‐DRB1*1202 (7.1%) and A*0207‐B*4601‐DRB1*1401 (5.3%), profiles that are also found in populations from the southern region of East Asia. Phylogenetic and principal component analyses revealed that the Maonan people belong to the southeastern Asian group and are most closely related to the Buyi people.

Analysis of QTLs for yield components, agronomic traits, and disease resistance in an advanced backcross population of spring barley

Hordeum vulgare subsp. spontaneum, the wild progenitor of barley, is a potential source of useful genetic variation for barley breeding programs. The objective of this study was to map quantitative trait loci (QTLs) in an advanced backcross population of barley. A total of 207 BC3 lines were developed using the 2-rowed German spring cultivar Hordeum vulgare subsp. vulgare 'Brenda' as a recurrent parent and the H. vulgare subsp. spontaneum accession HS584 as a donor parent. The lines were genotyped by 108 simple-sequence repeat (SSR) markers and evaluated in field tests for the measurement of grain yield and its components, such as ear length, spikelet number per spike, grain number per spike, spike number, and 1000-grain mass, as well as heading date and plant height. A total of 100 QTLs were detected. Ten QTLs with increasing effects were found for ear length, spikelet number, and grain number per spike. Three QTLs contributed by HS584 were found to significantly decrease days to heading across all years at 2 locations. In addition, 2 QTLs from HS584 on chromosomes 2H and 3H were associated with resistance to leaf rust. Based on genotypic data obtained from this population, 55 introgression lines carrying 1 or 2 donor segments were selected to develop a set of doubled-haploid lines, which will be used to reconfirm and investigate the effects of 100 QTLs for future genetic studies.

Molecular detection of QTLs for agronomic and quality traits in a doubled haploid population derived from two Canadian wheats (Triticum aestivum L.)

Development of high-yielding wheat varieties with good end-use quality has always been a major concern for wheat breeders. To genetically dissect quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for yield-related traits such as grain yield, plant height, maturity, lodging, test weight and thousand-grain weight, and for quality traits such as grain and flour protein content, gluten strength as evaluated by mixograph and SDS sedimentation volume, an F1-derived doubled haploid (DH) population of 185 individuals was developed from a cross between a Canadian wheat variety "AC Karma" and a breeding line 87E03-S2B1. A genetic map was constructed based on 167 marker loci, consisting of 160 microsatellite loci, three HMW glutenin subunit loci: Glu-A1, Glu-B1 and Glu-D1, and four STS-PCR markers. Data for investigated traits were collected from three to four environments in Manitoba, Canada. QTL analyses were performed using composite interval mapping. A total of 50 QTLs were detected, 24 for agronomic traits and 26 for quality-related traits. Many QTLs for correlated traits were mapped in the same genomic regions forming QTL clusters. The largest QTL clusters, consisting of up to nine QTLs, were found on chromosomes 1D and 4D. HMW glutenin subunits at Glu-1 loci had the largest effect on breadmaking quality; however, other genomic regions also contributed genetically to breadmaking quality. QTLs detected in the present study are compared with other QTL analyses in wheat.

HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-DRB1 alleles and haplotypes in Naxi and Han populations in southwestern China (Yunnan province)

The frequencies of the human leukocyte antigen alleles HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-DRB1 and the A-B-DRB1, A-B, and B-DRB1 haplotypes were studied in Naxi and Yunnan Han populations using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-sequence-specific amplification for alleles A and B and a PCR-microtiter plate hybridization method for the DRB1 allele. A total of 8 A, 19 B, and 30 DRB1 alleles were found in the Naxi population, and 15 A, 21 B, and 36 DRB1 alleles were found in Yunnan Han population. The common A-B-DRB1 haplotypes in the Naxi population were A*24-B*15-DRB1*1202, A*11-B*15-DRB1*0405, A*11-B*15-DRB1*1202, A*11-B*38-DRB1*08032, and A*11-B*55-DRB1*0405; the common A-B haplotypes were A*11-B*15, A*11-B*38, and A*24-B*15; and the common B-DRB1 haplotypes were B*15-DRB1*1202, B*38-DRB1*08032, and B*48-DRB1*1201. In the Yunnan Han population, the common A-B-DRB1 haplotypes were A*24-B*15-DRB1*1501, A*24-B*46-DRB1*08032, and A*24-B*15-DRB1*1201; the common A-B haplotypes were A*24-B*15, A*24-B*46, and A*34-B*46; and the common B-DRB1 haplotypes were B*15-DRB1*1501, B*46-DRB1*09012, and B*46-DRB1*1401. Phylogenetic tree and principal component analyzes based on HLA-A, HLA-B, and DRB1 allele frequencies suggested that the Naxi ethnic group belongs to the southern Chinese groups, while the Yunnan Han population is a characteristic population located intermediate between northern and southern Chinese groups, although they live in the southwest of China.

Specific heat of single-crystal PrMnO3

The specific heat of single-crystal PrMnO₃ was investigated from 2 to 200 K under different magnetic fields up to 8 T. A Schottky-like anomaly observed at low temperature was gradually shifted to higher temperatures by magnetic fields. The first four singlets of the Pr^3+ 3H₄ ground multiplet in PrMnO₃ are given for the first time by fitting the specific heat of Pr³⁺ ions below 40 K under zero field. By analysing the field dependence of the first singlet of Pr³⁺ ions, the Pr-Mn exchange field is found to be negligible, which is consistent with the magnetic anisotropy of Pr³⁺ ions revealed in the magnetic measurement. At T_N, the cooperative antiferromagnetic ordering of Mn³⁺ spins shows up as λ-shaped anomaly, which is lowered and broadened in magnetic fields. The magnetic entropy near T_N is estimated by subtracting the contributions to specific heat from Pr³⁺ ions and lattice vibrations. It was found that the fraction of entropy above T_N in the total entropy increases with the fields due to the enhancement of spin fluctuations by magnetic field.

Analysis of QTLs for yield, yield components, and malting quality in a BC3-DH population of spring barley

Advanced backcross (AB)-quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis has been successfully applied for detecting and transferring QTLs from unadapted germplasm into elite breeding lines in various plant species. Here, we describe the application of a modified AB breeding scheme to spring barley. A BC3-doubled haploid (DH) population consisting of 181 lines derived from the German spring barley cultivar 'Brenda' (Hordeum vulgare subsp. vulgare) as the recurrent parent and the wild species line 'HS213' (H. vulgare subsp. spontaneum) as the donor line was evaluated for yield and its components as well as malting quality traits. A set of 60 microsatellite markers was used to genotype the population, and phenotypic data were collected at two locations in Germany in continuous years. Altogether, 25 significant QTLs were detected by single-marker regression analysis and interval mapping. Most positive QTLs originated from the recurrent parent 'Brenda'. A QTL, Qhd2.1, on chromosome 2HS from 'Brenda' explained 18.3% and 20.7% of the phenotypic variation for yield and heading date, respectively. Due to the small percentage of donor-parent genome of 6.25%, the BC3-DH lines could be directly used for the extraction of near-isogenic lines (NILs) for Qhd2.1. Consequently, it was possible to determine the precise location of the locus hd2.1 within a region of 6.5 cM, using an F2 population consisting of 234 individuals developed from a cross between an NIL containing a defined donor segment at this locus and 'Brenda'. The location of this QTL was consistent with the presence of a major photoperiod response gene, Ppd-H1, previously reported in this region, which is associated with pleiotropic effects on yield components. In summary, the analysis of a BC3-DH population in barley provides a compromise between the analysis of QTLs by means of an AB scheme and the generation of defined substitution lines. Several lines carrying defined different donor segments for only one single chromosome or trait in the genetic background of 'Brenda' could be selected for further genetic studies.

Genotypic variation and identification of QTLs for agronomic traits, using AFLP and SSR markers in RILs of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)

A population of 77 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) were developed through single-seed descent from a cross between 'PAC-2' and 'RHA-266'. Seeds of the above-mentioned RILs and their parents were planted in the field in a randomised complete block design with two replications. Genetic control for some agronomical traits-sowing-to-flowering date, plant height, stem diameter (SD), head diameter (HD), grain weight per plant, 1,000-grain weight (TGW) and the percentage of oil in grains-were measured for RILs and their parents. Genetic variability was observed among 77 RILs for all traits studied. Transgressive segregation occurred for some traits, and the comparison between 10% of selected RILs with the best parent showed significant difference for SD and HD as well as for TGW. A set of 123 RILs from the same cross, including the 77 above-mentioned RILs and their two parents, were screened with 409 AFLP and SSR markers, and a linkage map was constructed based on 367 markers. Several QTLs associated with the studied traits were identified. The effects of each QTL are moderate, ranging from 7% to 37%, but a high percentage of phenotypic variance is explained when considering all the covariants (TR2 mean around 80% in each trait). Although the detected regions need to be more precisely mapped, the information obtained should help in marker-assisted selection.

Advanced backcross QTL analysis in progenies derived from a cross between a German elite winter wheat variety and a synthetic wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

We report here the second advanced backcross quantitative trait locus (AB-QTL) analysis carried out in winter wheat. Seven agronomic traits were studied in a BC2F1 population derived from a cross between the German winter wheat variety Flair and the synthetic wheat line XX86 developed in Japan. We selected 111 BC2F1 lines and genotyped these with 197 microsatellite markers. Field data for seven agronomic traits were collected from corresponding BC2F3 families that were grown at up to six locations in Germany. QTL analyses for yield and yield components were performed using single-marker regression and interval mapping. A total of 57 putative QTLs derived from XX86 were detected, of which 24 (42.1%) were found to have a positive effect from the synthetic wheat XX86. These favourable QQTLs were mainly associated with thousand-grain weight and grain weight per ear. Many QTLs for correlated traits were mapped in similar chromosomal regions. The AB-QTL data obtained in the present study are discussed and compared with results from previous QTL analyses.

Genetic diversity in cultivated plants-loss or stability?

Human activities like urbanisation, the replacement of traditional agriculture systems by modern industrial methods or the introduction of modern high-yielding varieties may pose a danger to the biological diversity. Using microsatellite markers, we analysed samples of cultivated wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) collected over an interval of 40-50 years in four comparable geographical regions of Europe and Asia. No significant differences in both the total number of alleles per locus and in the PIC values were detected when the material collected in the repeated collection missions in all four regions were compared. About two-thirds of the alleles were common to both collection periods, while one-third represented collection mission-specific alleles. These findings demonstrate that an allele flow took place during the adaptation of traditional agriculture to modern systems, whereas the level of genetic diversity was not significantly influenced.

Advanced backcross QTL analysis for the identification of quantitative trait loci alleles from wild relatives of wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.)

Advanced backcross QTL (AB-QTL) analysis was used to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for yield and yield components in a BC(2)F(2) population derived from a cross between the German winter wheat variety 'Prinz' and the synthetic wheat line W-7984 developed by CIMMYT. Two hundred and ten microsatellite markers were employed to genotype 72 pre-selected BC(2)F(2) plants and phenotypic data were collected for five agronomic traits from corresponding BC(2)F(3) families that were grown at four locations in Germany. Using single-marker regression and interval mapping, a total of 40 putative QTLs derived from W-7984 were detected, of which 11 were for yield, 16 for yield components, eight for ear emergence time and five for plant height. For 24 (60.0%) of them, alleles from the synthetic wheat W-7984 were associated with a positive effect on agronomic traits, despite the fact that synthetic wheat was overall inferior with respect to agronomic appearance and performance. The present study indicated that favorable QTL alleles could be transferred from wild relatives of wheat into an elite wheat variety for improvement of quantitative trait loci like yield by the advanced backcross QTL strategy and molecular breeding. To our knowledge, the results presented here were the first report on AB-QTL analysis in wheat.

Microsatellite mapping of the powdery mildew resistance gene Pm5e in common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Powdery mildew, caused by Erysiphe graminis DM f. sp. tritici (Em. Marchal), is one of the most important diseases of common wheat world-wide. Chinese wheat variety 'Fuzhuang 30' carries the powdery mildew resistance gene Pm5e and has proven to be a valuable resistance source of powdery mildew for wheat breeding. Microsatellite markers were employed to identify the gene Pm5e in a F(2) progeny from the cross 'Nongda 15' (susceptible) x 'Fuzhuang 30' (resistant). The gene Pm5e was mapped in the distal region of chromosome 7BL. Seven microsatellite markers were found to be linked to the gene Pm5e, of which two codominant markers Xgwm783 and Xgwm1267 were relatively close to Pm5e with a linkage distance of 11.0 cM and 6.6 cM, respectively. It is possible to use the 136-bp allele of Xgwm1267 in 'Fuzhuang 30' for marker-assisted selection during the wheat resistance breeding process for facilitation of gene pyramiding. The mapping information in the present study provides a starting point for fine mapping of the Pm5 locus and map-based cloning to clarify the molecular structure and function of the different alleles at the Pm5 locus. A microsatellite linkage map of chromosome 7B was constructed with 20 microsatellite loci, nine on the short arm and 11 on the long arm. This information will be very useful for further mapping of agronomically important genes of interest on chromosome 7B.

TECA hybrid artificial liver support system in treatment of acute liver failure

AIM: To assess the efficacy and safety of TECA type hybr id artificial liver support system (TECA-HALSS) in providing liver function of detoxification, metabolism and physiology by treating the patients with acute liv er failure (ALF).

METHODS: The porcine liver cells (1-2) × 10¹⁰ were separated from the Chinese small swine and cultured in the bioreactor of TECA-BALSS at 37.0 °C and circulated through the outer space of the hollow fiber tubes in BALSS. The six liver failure patients with various degree of hepatic coma were treated by TECA-HALSS and with conventional medicines. The venous plasma of the patients was separated by a plasma separator and treated by charcoal adsorbent or plasma exchange. The plasma circulated through the inner space of the hollow fiber tubes of BALSS and mixed with the patients’ blood cells and flew back to their blood circulation. Some small molecular weight substances were exchanged between the plasma and porcine liver cells. Each treatment lasted 6.0-7.0 h. Physiological and biochemical parameters were measured before, during and after the treatment.

RESULTS: The average of porcine liver cells was (1.0-3.0) × 10¹⁰ obtained from each swine liver using our modified enzymatic digestion method. The survival rate of the cells was 85%-93% by trypan blue stain and AO/PI fluorescent stain. After cultured in TECA-BALSS bioreactor for 6 h, the survival rate of cells still remained 70%-85%. At the end of TECA-HALSS treatment, the levels of plasma NH₃, ALT, TB and DB were significantly decreased. The patients who were in the state of drowsiness or coma before the treatment improved their appetite significantly and regained consciousness, some patients resumed light physical work on a short period after the treatment. One to two days after the treatment, the ratio of PTA increased warkedly. During the treatment, the heart rates, blood pressure, respiration condition and serum electrolytes (K⁺, Na⁺ and Cl^-) were stable without thrombosis and bleeding in all the six patients.

CONCLUSION: TECA-HALSS treatment could be a rapid, safe and efficacious method to provide temporary liver support for patients with ALF.

[Treatment of the wound on donor site after great toe-nail flap grafting]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the method of improving the vitality of skin graft on donor site of the great toe-nail skin flap.

METHODS

From June 1982 to April 1998, 252 cases of the great toe-nail flaps with piece of phalangeal bone and 18 cases of the simple great toe-nail flap were repaired with thin skin graft and packed under proper pressure. The stitches were removed two weeks later in common situation. It should be postponed on split thickness or partial survival skin flap avoiding early mobilization.

RESULTS

Sixty-six cases of skin graft were necrotic after operation. Among them, 38 cases needed second skin grafting and 28 cases were healed after changing dressing. The survival rate of skin grafting was obviously higher on phalangeal marrow surface than on periosteum of the naked phalange. Contracture of the skin graft after operation made the retained skin flap expanding from medial side to lateral side and covered the whole plantar surface of the great toe.

CONCLUSION

The survival rate of the skin graft on donor foot is improved after adopting the improved measures on taking the flap from great toe and paying attention to skin graft planting and packing. Free flap grafting is advocated for repairing of the wound on donor area of the great toe nail flap.

Hepatocellular carcinoma: US-guided percutaneous microwave coagulation therapy

PURPOSE

To evaluate the use of percutaneous microwave coagulation therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma, particularly with tumor nodules larger than 2 cm in diameter.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty patients with 107 hepatocellular carcinoma nodules (mean diameter, 2.7 cm +/- 1.5 [SD]; range, 0.8-6.4 cm) were treated with percutaneous microwave coagulation therapy. Single electrode insertion was used in 46 nodules (43.0%) 2 cm or smaller, whereas multiple electrode insertion was applied in 61 (57.0%) nodules larger than 2 cm.

RESULTS

At 1 month after therapy, technical success for tumors 2 cm or smaller and those larger than 2 cm was achieved in 45 (98%) and 56 (92%) nodules, respectively. After follow-up of 9 months or longer, local recurrence was found in one nodule (2%) sized 1.8 cm and in five nodules (8%) larger than 2 cm. At the end of the study, 26 (52%) of 50 patients were free of disease, and disease-free survival rates at 1 and 2 years were 55% and 41%, respectively. Overall survival rates at 1, 2, and 3 years were 96%, 83%, and 73%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous microwave coagulation therapy is an effective and safe therapeutic modality for hepatocellular carcinoma. A multiple electrode insertion technique can enhance the effectiveness of this therapy in tumors 6 cm or smaller.

[Observation of the effectiveness of APFI gel to prevent dental caries]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effectiveness of APFI Gel applied to pupils to prevent dental caries.

METHODS

2918 cases of 6 to 13 years old pupils from four urban and countryside primary schools were randomly divided into two groups,the experiment group and the control group. By theirs different school and classes and groups, APFI Gel was used to 2 160 cases of the experimental group to prevent dental caries. The control group consisted of 758 cases. The incidence of dental caries of the two groups were observed in the same time and using the same way.

RESULTS

Statistical analysis indicated that the incidence of dental caries in the experimental group decreased by 52.3%,the newly increased DMFT decreased by 60.14% (P<0.01). The incidence of dental caries of the first molar decreased by 52.43%,the newly increased DMFT decreased by 65.52% (P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

It is effective to use APFI Gel to prevent caries.

A 3D structural model of memapsin 2 protease generated from theoretical study

AIM

To build a 3D structural model of memapsin 2 (M2) protease for theoretical study and drug design.

METHODS

Structural alignment was performed based on multiple and pairwise sequence alignment of three templates. After the initial model was generated, energy minimization was completed by applying molecular mechanics method. Molecular dynamics (MD) technique was used to do further structural optimization.

RESULTS

The 3D structural model of memapsin 2 was constructed. The model is reasonable according to several validation criteria. The active-site motifs of M2 are structurally supported by a beta-sheet rich domain and linked together with this domain through alpha helices. Tyr132 contained in beta-hairpin is a general characteristic of aspartic protease. The Calpha atom superimposing result is a direct verification that M2 is structurally unique but still belongs to the aspartic protease superfamily.

CONCLUSION

The 3D-structure model from our study is informative to guide future molecular biology study about M2 and drug design based on database searching.

Building 3D-structural model of kappa opioid receptor and studying its interaction mechanism with dynorphin A(1-8)

AIM

To construct the 3D-structural model of human kappa opioid receptor (HKOR) and study its interacting mechanism with dynorphin A(1-8) (Dyn8).

METHODS

Comparative molecular modeling was applied to build the 7 transmembrane (TM) helical domain of HKOR using the bovine rhodopsin (OPSD) model as a template. Molecular dynamics was performed to minimize the HKOR model and to simulate the 3D-structure of Dyn8 based on the NMR results of dynorphin A(1-14). The extracellular loops (EL) were built by self-constructed database searching. DOCK4.0 program was performed to construct Dyn8 complex with HKOR.

RESULTS

(1) The model of HKOR was obtained and validated by theoretical and experimental data. (2) The Dyn8-HKOR interacting mechanism is reasonably explained: Side chain of residue Asp138 interacts with protonated nitrogen atom at the N-terminal residues of Dyn8 through electrostatic and hydrogen bonding, which play an important role in ligand binding with receptor. (3) Negatively charged amino acids in the second extracellular loop (EL2) as Asp223 and Glu209 interact with the C-terminal positively charged residues in Dyn8, and Glu209 is a likely determinant of peptide ligand specificity.

CONCLUSION

Some amino acid residues positioned in EL2, TM3, TM4, and TM5 form the binding site and therefore determine the selectivity of kappa peptide agonist.

Building three-dimensional structures of HIV-1 coreceptor CCR5 and its interaction with antagonist TAK779 by comparative molecular modeling

AIM

To study the mechanism of interaction of CCR5 receptor with its antagonist TAK779.

METHODS

Comparative molecular modeling has been used to develop the 3D-structural models of CCR5 receptor and its complex with TAK779. Molecular mechanics has been applied to optimize the above molecular models. Quantum mechanics has been utilized to calculate the structural information of TAK779. DOCK4.0 program is employed to dock the TAK779 molecular into the binding site of CCR5 receptor.

RESULTS

The 3D-structural model of CCR5 receptor is constructed using the 3D-model of frog rhodopsin as a template. The binding pocket is situated in the transmembrane helices 3, 5, 6, and 7, and it is composed of conserved residues of Tyr108, Gly111, Ser114, Glu283, Gly286, and Cys290, and conservatively varied residues including Thr105, Leu107, Phe112, Gly115, Lys197, and Met287. O1, N7, N17, and O19 of TAK779 are the active center of TAK779. The pyran cycle and the aminium group of TAK779 interact with residues in the binding pocket of CCR5 receptor, the other part of TAK779 interacts with residues from the extracellular loops of CCR5. The binding energy of TAK779 with CCR5 is -51.606 kcal/mol.

CONCLUSION

The model constructed and the interaction mode reported in the present study are useful in further understanding the molecular mechanism of receptor-virus recognition and designing new inhibitors of HIV-1 infection.

Comparative molecular modeling on 3D-structure of opioid receptor-like 1 receptor

AIM

To build the three-dimensional structure of opioid receptor-like 1 (ORL1) receptor.

METHODS

Structural elements of ORL1 receptor were predicted from sequence alignments of opioid and related receptors of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) based on (i) the consensus, biophysical interpretations of alignment-derived properties, and (ii) tertiary structural homology to frog rhodopsin; The extracellular loops of ORL1 were built by self-constructed database searching based on geometrical constraints; initial model was refined computationally with energy minimization by molecular mechanics method.

RESULTS

The calculated structure of ORL1 receptor has clusters of hydrogen bonds existing in interhelices and extracellular loops; the ORL1 receptor has a possible ligand-binding "crevice" situated on the extraside of the transmembrane domains between helices 3, 5, 6, and 7, which is partially covered by the extracellular loop 2 (EL-2); The binding cavity may consist of a "highly conserved region" involving the residues of Asp130, Tyr131, and an outer "conservatively variable region" containing the residues near the interface of transmembrane (TM) helices-EL loops; The molecular model obtained is qualitatively consistent with ligand affinities, hybrid peptide studies, and other experimental data.

CONCLUSION

The structural model of ORL1 receptor from this study is helpful for clarifying experimental observations of ligands interacting with opioid receptors, and for designing new biological investigations.

Study on mechanism of interaction of nociceptin and opioids binding with opioid receptor-like 1 receptor

AIM

To study the mechanism of interaction of nociceptin and opioids with ORL1 receptor.

METHODS

Molecular dynamics study was carried out before nociceptin was manually docked into the binding site of ORL1 receptor; DOCK4.0 program was applied to dock four stereoisomers of lofentanyl and etorphine into the binding pocket of ORL1 receptor; Binding energies were calculated, the relationship between binding energy and binding affinity was studied.

RESULTS

Nociceptin fits well into the binding pocket, the N-terminal FGGF tetrapeptide is located in the inner region of the binding cavity, the nociceptin (5-7) interacts with the conservatively variable residues near the other end of binding pocket, and maybe determines selectivity of ORL1 receptor over dynorphin A, the positively charged core of nociceptin (8-13) binds predominantly with negatively charged EL-2 loop, which is thought to be able to mediate receptor activation. The shortest fully active analogue of nociceptin (1-13) is also discussed. The main difference between these two opioids and nociceptin exists in the kinds and the number of conserved and variable residues in the binding pocket and thereafter in the strength of their interaction. Prediction for binding affinities of four stereoisomers of lofentanyl has been performed based on their binding energies, the similar pharmacophore of lofentanyl and other fentanyl analogs, and the good correlation between binding energies and their experimental binding affinities (-log Ki values).

CONCLUSION

Ligand docking results from this study are helpful in clarifying experimental observations of ligands interaction with opioid receptors, thus furthering biological investigations.

Molecular modeling on solvent effect and interaction mechanism of fentanyl analogs to mu-opioid receptor

AIM

To do theoretical study about solvation effect and interaction mechanism of fentanyl analogs (FA) to mu opioid receptor (microOR).

METHODS

Flexible docking (FlexiDock) was performed by using the possible active conformations of FA and optimized 3D structure of mu opioid receptor. Binding energies were calculated. Comparative molecular force field analysis (CoMFA) and quantitative structure activity relationship (QSAR) studies were carried out based on results of flexible docking. Solvation effects were considered by studying interaction of FA with water molecules. Partial least square (PLS) analysis was used to calculate regression equation for analgesic activities using binding energies as descriptive factor.

RESULTS

1) Binding conformations of these analogs derived by flexible docking were reasonable. 2) It was most possible for the FA to exist in water solution in the form of binding conformations. 3) Energetic calculation and QSAR analysis showed a good correlation between the calculated binding energies of FA and their analgesic activities. 4) Based on the 3D-model, the possible interaction mechanism of FA with mu opioid receptor can be illustrated reasonably.

CONCLUSION

The nature of the correlation between the binding affinities and analgesic activities of FA was explained by our modeling result.

A preliminary study of the mental health of young migrant workers in Shenzhen

The aim of this study is to examine the mental health status of young migrant workers in Shenzhen. Using the Symptoms Check List-90 (SCL-90), Eysenck Personality Questionnaire, Social Support Scale and Mental Health Questionnaire for Laborers, 371 migrant workers who came from inland areas of China and 100 local workers were investigated. The SCL-90 profile of migrant workers was also compared to the SCL-90 norms provided by general people in China. The SCL-90 results showed that the total scores, the average scores of the positive symptoms, the three factor scores of obsessionality, interpersonal sensitivity and phobia in migrant workers were significantly higher than those in the local workers. According to the multivariate analysis, the amount of contribution to mental health, in descending order, was neuroticism, psychological pressure, income, home sickness, marital or love problems, extroversion and introversion, living conditions and social status. The mental health status of young migrant workers in Shenzhen was poorer than that of their local counterparts, as well as people in China on the SCL-90. It is recommended that mental health workers should help migrant workers adjust to the new urban environment by providing psychological counseling and other relevant treatment facilities.

Cerebral ventricle-brain ratio in monozygotic twins discordant and concordant for schizophrenia

1. Several studies on monozygotic twins discordant for schizophrenia showed that the cerebral ventricle-brain ratio (VBR) was larger in the twins with schizophrenia, as compared with the corresponding normal twins. 2. The results suggest that the difference of the VBR of the discordant twins was larger than that of the concordant twins of schizophrenia. 3. The authors studied the VBR in four monozygotic twin pairs discordant and four monozygotic twin pairs concordant for schizophrenia by computerized tomography. 4. In the discordant twins, all pairs showed that the VBR of the normal twins was smaller than that of the corresponding twins with schizophrenia. 5. The difference of the VBR of the discordant twins and that of the concordant twins of schizophrenia was not statistically different using Mann-Whitney U test. 6. The preliminary results suggest that the VBR enlargement in schizophrenia is not genetically controlled in monozygotic twins either discordant or concordant for schizophrenia. 7. In monozygotic concordant twins, the brain pathology may be heterogeneous.