[The cases of tracing the source of patients infected with Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 based on wastewater-based epidemiology in Shenzhen]

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) is an emerging discipline, which has been applied to drug abuse tracking and infectious disease pathogen surveillance. During the COVID-19 epidemic, WBE has been applied to monitor the epidemic trend and SARS-CoV-2 variants etc. In order to detect hidden COVID-19 cases and prevent transmission in the community, wastewater surveillance system for monitoring SARS-CoV-2 RNA was developed in Shenzhen. The sewage sampling sites were set up in key places such as the port areas, urban villages and residential communities of Futian, Nanshan, Luohu and Yantian districts. From July 26 to November 30, 2022, a total of 369 sewage sampling sites were set up, covering 1.93 million people. Continuous sampling was carried out for 3 hours in the peak period of water use every day. Sewage virus enrichment and SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid detection were carried out by polyethylene glycol precipitation method and RT-qPCR, and a positive water sample disposal process was molded. This article aims to introduce the case of source tracing of COVID-19 infected patients based on urban sewage in Shenzhen. The sewage monitoring of Honghu water treatment plant in Luohu District played an early warning role, and the source of infection was traced. In the disposal of positive water samples in Futian South Road, Futian District, the important experience of monitoring point layout was obtained. In the sewage monitoring of Nanshan village, Nanshan District, the existence of occult infection was revealed. Sharing the experience of tracing the source of COVID-19 patients to avoid the spread of COVID-19 in the community based on wastewater surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in Shenzhen, and summarizing the advantages and application prospects of sewage surveillance can provide new ideas for monitoring emerging or re-emerging pathogens that are known to exhibit gastrointestinal excretion in the future.

[Predictive factors for sequelae of bronchitis obliterans in refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia]

Objective: To investigate the predictive factors for bronchitis obliterans in refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (RMPP). Methods: A restrospective case summary was conducted 230 patients with RMPP admitted to the Department of No.2 Respiratory Medicine of Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University from January 2013 to June 2017 were recruited. Clinical data, laboratory results, imaging results and follow-up data were collected. Based on bronchoscopy and imaging findings 1 year after discharge, all patients were divided into two groups: one group had sequelae of bronchitis obliterans (sequelae group) and the other group had not bronchitis obliterans (control group), independent sample t-test and nonparametric test were used to compare the differences in clinical features between the two groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to explore the predictive value of Bronchitis Obliterans in RMPP. Results: Among 230 RMPP children, there were 115 males and 115 females, 95 cases had sequelae group, the age of disease onset was (7.1±2.8) years;135 cases had control group, the age of disease onset was (6.8±2.7) years. The duration of fever, C-reative protein (CRP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels, the proportion of ≥2/3 lobe consolidation, pleural effusion and the proportion of airway mucus plug and mucosal necrosis were longer or higher in the sequelae group than those in the control group ((17±9) vs. (12±3) d, (193±59) vs. (98±42) mg/L,730 (660, 814) vs. 486 (452, 522) U/L, 89 cases (93.7%) vs. 73 cases (54.1%), 73 cases (76.8%) vs.59 cases (43.7%), 81 cases (85.3%) vs. 20 cases (14.8%), 67 cases (70.5%) vs. 9 cases (6.7%), t=5.76, 13.35, Z=-6.41, χ²=14.64, 25.04, 22.85, 102.78, all P<0.001). Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that the duration of fever ≥10 days (OR=1.200, 95%CI 1.014-1.419), CRP levels increased (OR=1.033, 95%CI 1.022-1.044) and LDH levels increased (OR=1.001, 95%CI 1.000-1.003) were the risk factors for sequelae of bronchitis obliterans in RMPP. ROC curve analysis showed that CRP 137 mg/L had a sensitivity of 82.1% and a specificity of 80.1%; LDH 471 U/L had a sensitivity of 62.7% and a specificity of 60.3% for predicting the development of bronchitis obliterans. Conclusions: The long duration of fever (≥10 d), CRP increase (≥137 mg/L) may be used to predict the occurrence of sequelae of bronchitis obliterans in RMPP. It is helpful for early recognition of risk children.

[Effects of Porphyromonas gingivalis injected through tail vein on the expressions of biomarkers in neural stem cells and neurons of wild-type rats hippocampus]

Objectives: To study the effects of Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) injected through tail vein on the molecular expression levels of biomarkers of neural stem cells (NSC) and neurons in the hippocampus of wild-type adult rats, and the effects on hippocampal neurogenesis. Methods: Eighteen male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into 3 groups based on the table of random numbers (n=6 in each group). In low-intensity group and high-intensity group, rats were injected intravenously through tail vein with 200 μl Pg ATCC33277 [1.0×10³ and 1.0×10⁸ colony forming unit (CFU), respectively] 3 times per week for 8 weeks. In the sham group, 200 μl of phosphate buffer saline (PBS) was given instead. Behavioral tests: the navigation and the exploration tests using Morris water maze (MWM) were applied to evaluate learning and memory ability of rats. Immunohistochemistry was performed to detect cells positively expressing nestin, doublecortin (DCX) and neuronal nuclei (NeuN) in the subgranular zone (SGZ) of rats in each group. Western blotting was used to evaluate the expression levels of nestin, DCX and NeuN in rat hippocampus. Results: Learning and memory abilities: on day 5 of navigation test, the lagency time was 22.83 (16.00, 38.34) s in the high-intensity group, significantly longer than the sham group [5.59 (5.41, 6.17) s] (t=-11.17, P<0.001). There were no significant differences between the low-intensity group [9.85 (8.75, 21.01) s] and the sham group (t=-6.83, P=0.080). Results in the exploration test showed that, in the high-intensity group, the number of fime crossing over the previous platform area within 60 s was 1.50 (1.00, 2.00), significantly less than the sham group [4.00 (2.75, 4.00)] (t=9.75, P=0.003); no significant differences between the low-intensity group [2.50 (2.00, 3.00)] and the sham one (t=4.50, P=0.382). Immunohistochemistry showed that the nestin⁺ cell density in the low-intensity group [(35.36±4.32) cell/mm²] and high-intensity group [(26.51±5.89) cell/mm²] were significantly lower than the sham group [(59.58±14.15) cell/mm²] (t=24.21, P=0.018; t=33.07, P=0.005); as for the mean absorbance of DCX⁺ cells, the low-intensity group (0.007±0.002) and the high-intensity group (0.006±0.002) were significantly lower than the sham group (0.011±0.001) (t=0.004, P=0.018; t=0.006, P=0.005); compared with the sham group [(1.13±0.14)×10³ cell/mm²], the density of NeuN⁺ neurons in the high-intensity group [(0.75±0.08)×10³ cell/mm²] was significantly reduced (t=0.38, P=0.017), and was not significantly changed in the low-intensity group [(0.88±0.19)×10³ cell/mm²] (t=0.25, P=0.075). Western blotting results showed that, compared with the sham group, the expression levels of nestin, DCX, and NeuN were significantly reduced in the high-intensity group (t=0.74, P<0.001; t=0.18, P=0.014; t=0.35, P=0.008), but were not statistically changed in the low-intensity group (t=0.18, P=0.108; t=0.08, P=0.172; t=0.19, P=0.077). Conclusions: Pg injected through tail vein may reduce learning and memory abilities of wild-type rats, and may reduce the number of nestin, DCX, and NeuN-positive cells, and the protein expression levels of the above molecules in the hippocampus.

Four bioactive new steroids from the soft coral Lobophytum pauciflorum collected in South China Sea

Four new polyhydroxylated steroids lobophysterols E–H (1–4), together with three known compounds (5–7), were isolated from the soft coral Lobophytum pauciflorum collected at Xisha Island, China. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis and comparison with NMR data of structurally related compounds reported in the literature. The absolute configuration of 1–3 was determined by X-ray diffraction. All the compounds have assessed the cytotoxicity against HL-60, K562, and Hela cells. Compound 1 showed weak cytotoxicity against K562 cells with an IC50 value of 19.03 μM. In addition, compound 1 also showed a moderate anti-inflammatory effect in zebrafish.

Association between outdoor particulate air pollution and the risk of osteoporosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Air pollution is a major threat to global health, which is associated with several adverse health outcomes and increased mortality. Few studies have investigated the association between air pollution and osteoporosis, and their findings were inconclusive. Our objective is to determine whether exposure to outdoor air pollution is causally associated with risk of osteoporosis. A systematic literature search of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library for publications up to December 2020 was conducted for studies reporting the association between air pollution and osteoporosis. Meta-analysis was performed to estimate the pooled effect size of air pollution on osteoporosis using the relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Quality assessment was conducted, and all statistical analyses were performed by RevMan 5.3 software. Our search identified 9 eligible studies involving 9,371,212 patients. Meta-analysis revealed that there was an increased risk of osteoporosis (total body BMD and hip fracture) as a result of exposure to air pollution including PM_2.5 and NO₂. However, no significant excess risk of osteoporosis was found regardless of PM₁₀, NO, and O₃. In spite of a few number of epidemiological studies selected in the present literature review, this study indicated that the increased exposure to air pollutants was positively associated with high risk of osteoporosis. Further cohort studies with large sample sizes are needed to investigate different constituents and the duration of exposure of air pollutants.

[Clinical features and early diagnostic clues of chronic granulomatous disease]

Objective: To explore the early clinical clues for diagnosis of chronic granulomatous disease (CGD). Methods: One hundred and thirty-nine children with CGD seen in Beijing Children's Hospital from January 2007 to October 2020 were included in this study. The clinical features including age of onset, first presentations, reason for being hospitalized, etiology, imaging features, clues for early diagnosis of all patients were evaluated retrospectively. According to the time of diagnosis, the patients were divided into two groups, cases diagnosed before 2015 and after 2015 and 2015. The time of diagnosis, the length of stay and the hospital charges were compared between the two groups. T test and χ² test were used for statistical analyses. Results: One hundred and nineteen of the cases were males and 20 were females. The age of onset was 4 months (8 d to 14 years), and 103 cases (74.1%) had onset before 1 year of age. The age at diagnosis was 1.8 years (21 d to 14.7 years), and the time of diagnosis delay was 1 year (7 d to 13.7 years). One hundred and thirty-five cases (97.1%) had pulmonary infection as the main reason for hospitalization, of whom 76 cases (56.3%) had positive pulmonary etiology. One hundred and thirty-six patients (97.8%) were referred cases, of whom 5 were suspected of CGD before referral, and the misdiagnosis rate was as high as 96.3% (131/136). Eight early clues for diagnosis were found, the frequency from high to low, large bacillus Callmette-Guer scar in 99 cases (70.5%), left axillary lymphadenopathy or calcification in 73 cases (52.5%), skin or other lymph node infections in 58 cases (41.7%), skin scars in 50 cases (36.0%), multiple lung nodules in 42 cases (30.2%), perianal abscess in 35 cases (25.2%), pulmonary Aspergillus infection in 26 cases (18.7%) and pulmonary Burkholderia infection in 15 cases (10.8%). A total of 120 cases of CGD were diagnosed by respiratory burst test during hospitalization, including 55 cases diagnosed before 2015 and 65 cases diagnosed after 2015. After using these 8 early diagnosis clues, the cases diagnosed after 2015 had shorter time of diagnosis and the length of stay and lower hospitalization charge than cases diagnosed before 2014, and the difference was statistically significant ((25±7) vs. (10±5) d, (29±7) vs. (18±6) d, (3.7×10⁴±1.2×10⁴) vs. (3.2×10⁴±1.2×10⁴) Yuan, t=13.763, 9.262, 2.381, all P<0.05). Conclusions: Patients with CGD are younger at onset and the diagnosis is delayed. Pulmonary infections are the most common. Large BCG scar, left axillary lymphadenopathy or calcification, skin or other lymph node infections, skin scars, multiple lung nodules, perianal abscesses, pulmonary Aspergillus infection and Burkholderia infection can help early diagnosis of CGD.

[A multi-center retrospective study of perioperative chemotherapy for gastric cancer based on real-world data]

Objective: To explore the effect of perioperative chemotherapy on the prognosis of gastric cancer patients under real-world condition. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was carried out. Real world data of gastric cancer patients receiving perioperative chemotherapy and surgery + adjuvant chemotherapy in 33 domestic hospitals from January 1, 2014 to January 31, 2016 were collected. Inclusion criteria: (1) gastric adenocarcinoma was confirmed by histopathology, and clinical stage was cT2-4aN0-3M0 (AJCC 8th edition); (2) D2 radical gastric cancer surgery was performed; (3) at least one cycle of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) was completed; (4) at least 4 cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) [SOX (S-1+oxaliplatin) or CapeOX (capecitabine + oxaliplatin)] were completed. Exclusion criteria: (1) complicated with other malignant tumors; (2) radiotherapy received; (3) patients with incomplete data. The enrolled patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy and adjuvant chemotherapy were included in the perioperative chemotherapy group, and those who received only postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy were included in the surgery + adjuvant chemotherapy group. Propensity score matching (PSM) method was used to control selection bias. The primary outcome were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) after PSM. OS was defined as the time from the first neoadjuvant chemotherapy (operation + adjuvant chemotherapy group: from the date of operation) to the last effective follow-up or death. PFS was defined as the time from the first neoadjuvant chemotherapy (operation + adjuvant chemotherapy group: from the date of operation) to the first imaging diagnosis of tumor progression or death. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate the survival rate, and the Cox proportional hazards model was used to evaluate the independent effect of perioperative chemo therapy on OS and PFS. Results: 2 045 cases were included, including 1 293 cases in the surgery+adjuvant chemotherapy group and 752 cases in the perioperative chemotherapy group. After PSM, 492 pairs were included in the analysis. There were no statistically significant differences in gender, age, body mass index, tumor stage before treatment, and tumor location between the two groups (all P>0.05). Compared with the surgery + adjuvant chemotherapy group, patients in the perioperative chemotherapy group had higher proportion of total gastrectomy (χ(2)=40.526, P<0.001), smaller maximum tumor diameter (t=3.969, P<0.001), less number of metastatic lymph nodes (t=1.343, P<0.001), lower ratio of vessel invasion (χ(2)=11.897, P=0.001) and nerve invasion (χ(2)=12.338, P<0.001). In the perioperative chemotherapy group and surgery + adjuvant chemotherapy group, 24 cases (4.9%) and 17 cases (3.4%) developed postoperative complications, respectively, and no significant difference was found between two groups (χ(2)=0.815, P=0.367). The median OS of the perioperative chemotherapy group was longer than that of the surgery + adjuvant chemotherapy group (65 months vs. 45 months, HR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.62-0.89, P=0.001); the median PFS of the perioperative chemotherapy group was also longer than that of the surgery+adjuvant chemotherapy group (56 months vs. 36 months, HR=0.72, 95% CI:0.61-0.85, P<0.001). The forest plot results of subgroup analysis showed that both men and women could benefit from perioperative chemotherapy (all P<0.05); patients over 45 years of age (P<0.05) and with normal body mass (P<0.01) could benefit significantly; patients with cTNM stage II and III presented a trend of benefit or could benefit significantly (P<0.05); patients with signet ring cell carcinoma benefited little (P>0.05); tumors in the gastric body and gastric antrum benefited more significantly (P<0.05). Conclusion: Perioperative chemotherapy can improve the prognosis of gastric cancer patients.

Immunomodulatory effects of IL-33 and IL-25 in an ovalbumin-induced allergic rhinitis mouse model

Both interleukin (IL)-33 and IL-25 induce Th2-type cytokine production by various cell types, suggesting that they may contribute to development of allergic disorders, however, the immunomodulatory effects of IL-33 and IL-25 in ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic rhinitis (AR) remain unclear. In the present study, anti-IL-33 and anti-IL-25 Abs were administrated intranasally during rechallenge in OVA-induced AR. Immunomodulatory effects were evaluated by measuring nasal rubbing, sneezing occurrence, serum OVA-specific antibodies, Th2 immune responses, neutrophil, eosinophil and mast cell recruitment into the nasal mucosa. We found that treatment with anti-IL-33 Ab markedly reduced nasal rubbing, sneezing events, Th2 immune responses, serum OVA-specific IgE and IgG1 levels, mucosal neutrophil, eosinophil and mast cell infiltration. In contrast, the effect of IL-25 antagonism was limited to attenuating the Th2 immune responses, and neutrophil and eosinophil infiltration. These observations indicate that IL-33 and IL-25 play a pathogenic role in an established AR mouse model, with a greater contribution of IL-33 than IL-25. Our findings suggest that IL-33 neutralization may be a potential approach for treatment of AR.

[Clinical features of cystic fibrosis associated allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis in children]

Objective: To analyze the clinical features of cystic fibrosis (CF) associated allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) in children. Methods: A retrospective study was performed in 22 children who were diagnosed with CF associated ABPA in Beijing Children's Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University from March 2010 to March 2020. The clinical features, imaging characteristics, laboratory results and the prognosis were reviewed. Results: A total of 22 cases met the diagnostic criterion, including 12 males and 10 females. The age of diagnosis was (10.4±2.8) years and the age of onset was (5.5±4.4) years. Clinical manifestations included cough and expectoration (22 cases), recurrent wheezing (15 cases), hemoptysis (7 cases), failure to thrive (12 cases), pancreatitis (10 cases), hepatomegaly (7 cases), splenomegaly (4 cases) and steatorrhea (4 cases). CT scans of all the patients showed pulmonary infiltrates and central bronchiectasis, combined with mucoid impaction in 17 cases and high density mucus plug in 12 cases. Eosinophilia was found in 18 patients. Total IgE and serum levels of A. fumigatus-specific IgE were elevated in all 22 patients. Positive culture of sputum or bronchoalvedar lauage fluid for fungus were in 15 cases, with single Aspergillus infection in 8 cases and mixed Aspergillus infection in 3 cases. The predominant bacteria found in the airways were Pseudomonas aeruginosa (17 cases), followed by staphylococcas. aureus (6 cases) and stenotrophomonas. maltophilia (5 cases). Pulmonary function revealed obstructive ventilation dysfunction in 4 cases, mixed dysfunction in 11 cases, and small airway dysfunction in 4 cases. Regarding the treatment, 3 were treated only with systemic corticosteroid, while the remaining 19 cases also received antifungal agents.The follow up continued for 1-7 years, and 6 maintained remission, 10 had recurrent episodes, 1 died, and 5 lost to follow up. Conclusions: CF associated ABPA is extremely rare in China. The overlapping clinical, radiographic, and immunologic features of these two diseases make the diagnosis challenging. Systemic corticosteroids are considered the first-line therapy for these patients, and adjuvant antifungal agents may be helpful. Recurrence rate in our center is high.

Biological and Chemical Diversity of Marine Sponge-Derived Microorganisms over the Last Two Decades from 1998 to 2017

Marine sponges are well known as rich sources of biologically natural products. Growing evidence indicates that sponges harbor a wealth of microorganisms in their bodies, which are likely to be the true producers of bioactive secondary metabolites. In order to promote the study of natural product chemistry and explore the relationship between microorganisms and their sponge hosts, in this review, we give a comprehensive overview of the structures, sources, and activities of the 774 new marine natural products from sponge-derived microorganisms described over the last two decades from 1998 to 2017.

[Clinical application of HRCT three-dimensional reconstruction in traumatic ossicular chain interruption]

Objective:To investigate the clinical value of HRCT three-dimensional reconstruction technique in traumatic auditory chain traumatic fracture. Method:The clinical data of 14 patients with traumatic ear ossicular chain interruption were analyzed retrospectively. To evaluate the injury site and degree of the auditory chain before surgery, all the 14 patients underwent,HRCT scanning and three-dimensional reconstruction. The reconstructed auditory chain was observed from multiple angles and compared with the surgical exploration results under microscope. Result:The coincidence rate between ossicular chain injury observed by temporal bone HRCT scan before operation and ossicular chain injury observed during surgery was only 28.57%, the coincidence rate between ossicular chain injury observed during surgery and ossicular chain injury observed by three-dimensional reconstruction is 85.71%.Therefore, three-dimensional reconstruction imaging technique could give the doctor more clearly and stereoscopic images for the destruction of ossicular chain. Conclusion:Preoperative three-dimensional reconstruction can display and diagnosis of auditory ossicular chain destruction more clearly. It can be used to accurately evaluate auditory ossicular chain pathological changes, to develop individualized surgical plans and assess the risk of surgery.

Terpenoids from the South China Sea soft coral Sinularia multiflora

A rare sinulariane-type norcembranoid sinulariadiolide B (1) with a unique cyano group, and a eunicellin-based diterpenoid multifloralin (2), along with two known related analogues, sinulariadiolide (3) and sclerophytin E (4), were isolated from the extract of the South China Sea soft coral Sinularia multiflora. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of detailed spectroscopic analysis and by comparison with previously reported data. Compounds 2 and 4 showed potent antifouling activity against barnacle Balanus albicostatus.

[Clinical analysis of methylmalonic acidemia and hyperhomocysteinemia with diffuse lung disease as an initial or main presentation]

Objective: To improve the awareness of methylmalonic acidemia and hyperhomocysteinemia with diffuse lung disease as an initial or main presentation. Methods: A retrospective analysis of the clinical manifestations, radiological features, laboratory tests, genetic variations, treatments and prognoses was conducted in six children presented with diffuse lung disease and finally diagnosed with methylmalonic acidemia and hyperhomocysteinemia in Ward 2 of Department of Respiratory Diseases, Beijing Children's Hospital, from August 2017 to November 2018. Results: Six children were included in this study. Two children were male and four were female. The average age of onset was 28 months. The mean age at diagnosis was 34 months. The average interval from onset to diagnosis was 6 months. Four children who underwent genetic tests were found to have variants of gene MMACHC and diagnosed with CblC type. All children had respiratory symptoms and signs as initial or main presentation, which were tachypnea (5 cases), exercise intolerance (5 cases), cough (4 cases), cyanosis (4 cases), clubbing (4 cases), dyspnea (3 cases) and retractions (3 cases). Pulmonary arterial hypertension was found in all six children. Pericardial effusion (4 cases), kidney involvement (3 cases), nervous system involvement (3 cases), gastrointestinal system involvement (3 cases) and anemia (2 cases) also coexisted. The high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) features included dilated pulmonary artery (6 cases), ground-glass opacities (4 cases), diffuse poorly defined ground-glass centrilobular nodules (3 cases), pleural effusion (3 cases), thickening of interlobular septum (2 cases), etc. All children had an elevated concentration of methylmalonic acid in urine and homocysteine in plasma. Genetic tests were performed in four patients, and MMACHC genetic mutations were found in all of them. Clinical manifestations, HRCT features and pulmonary arterial hypertension turned better in five children after treatment. One patient who was not regularly followed-up died. Conclusions: Pulmonary involvement including diffuse lung disease and pulmonary arterial hypertension could coexist with methylmalonic acidemia and hyperhomocysteinemia, which may have respiratory symptoms and signs as the initial or main presentation. Characteristic HRCT features were found in some patients. Plasma homocysteine test is a quick method for screening the disease in children with diffuse lung disease and (or) pulmonary arterial hypertension. Both diffuse lung disease and pulmonary arterial hypertension may turn better after treatment.

[A study on the pedigree of the academic inheritance of Li Shicai]

Li Shicai, a famous physician of Ming Dynasty had a large number of students. Shen Langzhong, who was a student of Li Shicai, was the teacher of Ma Yuanyi, and one of Ma's student was You Zaijing. This inheritance pedigree was called "Li Shicai School" in academic communities. There were little of study on its later physicians after You Zaijing. This paper collated the medical works, genealogy, local chronicles and medical records of Li Shicai and doctors of different generations. We clarified the academic inheritance genealogy of the past four hundred years. Up to now, there have been twelve generations totally.

Isolation and Absolute Configurations of Diversiform C17, C21 and C25 Terpenoids from the Marine Sponge Cacospongia sp

Chemical investigation of MeOH extract of a South China Sea sponge Cacospongia sp. yielded 15 terpenoids belonging to three different skeleton-types, including the unusual C₁₇γ-lactone norditerpenoids (1–3), the rare C₂₁ pyridine meroterpenoid (7), and the notable C₂₅ manoalide-type sesterterpenoids (4–6, 8–10). Compounds 1–5 were initially obtained as enantiomers, and were further separated to be optically pure compounds (1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a-r, 3b-r, 4a, 4b, 5a and 5b) by chiral HPLC, with a LiAlH₄ reduction aid for 3. Compounds 3a/3b (a pair of inseparable enantiomers), 4a, 5a, 6, and 7 were identified as new compounds, while 1a/1b and 2a/2b were obtained from a natural source and were determined for their absolute configurations for the first time. This is also the first time to encounter enantiomers of the well-known manoalide-type sesterterpenoids from nature. The structures with absolute configurations of the new compounds were unambiguously determined by comprehensive methods including HR-ESI-MS and NMR data analysis, optical rotation comparison, experimental and calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD), and Mo₂(OAc)₄ induced circular dichroism (ICD) methods. The cytotoxicity of the isolates against selected human tumor cell lines was evaluated, however, the tested compounds showed no activity against selected cell lines.

Metabolites from the Paracel Islands Soft Coral Sinularia cf. molesta

Five new oxygenated sesquiterpenes, molestins A–D (1, 3–5) and epi-gibberodione (2), three new cyclopentenone derivatives, ent-sinulolides C, D, and F ((+)-9–(+)-11), one new butenolide derivative, ent-sinulolide H ((+)-13), and one new cembranolide, molestin E (14), together with 14 known related metabolites (6–8, (–)-9–(–)-11, (±)-12, (–)-13, 15–19) were isolated from the Paracel Islands soft coral Sinularia cf. molesta. The structures and absolute configurations were elucidated based on comprehensive spectroscopic analyses, quantum chemical calculations, and comparison with the literature data. Compound 5 is the first example of a norsesquiterpene with a de-isopropyl guaiane skeleton isolated from the genus Sinularia. Molestin E (14) exhibited cytotoxicities against HeLa and HCT-116 cell lines with IC₅₀ values of 5.26 and 8.37 μM, respectively. Compounds 4, 5, and 8 showed significant inhibitory activities against protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) with IC₅₀ values of 218, 344, and 1.24 μM, respectively.

[Research on the factors affecting the postoperative outcome of otosclerosis]

Summary Otosclerosis is not often seen in the clinic, but it can seriously affect the quality of life due to the hearing loss of patients. Currently, the treatment of otosclerosis is mainly surgery. With the development of microsurgical techniques, the treatment of surgery for otosclerosis has been highly praised and widely carried out. However, different surgical methods, assistive techniques and instruments used during surgery, selected placement of prostheses, and varying levels of experience of the surgeon can all affect postoperative outcomes. In order to provide reference for the surgical treatment of otosclerosis in the future，this paper will summarize the factors related to postoperative efficacy of stapes surgery for otosclerosis.

Cytotoxic components from the Xisha sponge Fascaplysinopsis reticulata

A new dolabellane diterpenoid, clavirolide H (1), together with eleven known compounds, including two dolabellane diterpenoid (2 and 3), a rare cavernosine-type C₁₇ γ-lactone terpenoid (4), a diketopiperazine (5) and seven sterols (6-12), were isolated from the Xisha sponge Fascaplysinopsis reticulata. Their structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis, and the four types of compounds of the above isolates were reported from the genus Fascaplysinopsis for the first time. Selected compounds 1, 4-6 and 9-12 were evaluated for cytotoxic activities against K562, HL-60, Hela, HCT-116, A549, L-02 and BEL-7402 cell lines. Compounds 4-6 and 10-12 showed potent cytotoxicitives against HL-60 with IC₅₀ values ranging from 8.8 to 12.4 μM. Compounds 4 and 5 exhibited weak cytotoxic activities against HeLa with IC₅₀ of 20.7 and 27.4 μM, and 5 also has moderate cytotoxicity against HCT-116 with IC₅₀ of 16.3 μM.[Figure: see text].

[MicroRNA and sensorineural hearing loss]

Hearing loss caused by disorders throughout the cochlea or auditory pathway called sensorineural hearing loss. The etiology of sensorineural deafness is complex and diverse, and the sensory epithelial cell damage of the inner ear spiral is the main pathological change. MicroRNAs play a role in the regulation of gene expression by inhibiting or degrading the mRNA of target genes. More and more studies have shown that microRNA plays an important role in the development of sensorineural deafness. This article will review the process of microRNA involvement in the development of sensorineural hearing loss.

Terpenoids from the Soft Coral Sinularia sp. Collected in Yongxing Island

Three new sesquiterpenoids (sinuketal (1), sinulins A and B (2 and 3)) and two new cembranoids (sinulins C and D (4 and 5)), as well as eight known sesquiterpenoids (6–13) and eight known cembranoids (14–21), were isolated from the Xisha soft coral Sinularia sp. Their structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis. Compound 1 possesses an unprecedented isopropyl-branched bicyclo [6.3.0] undecane carbon skeleton with unique endoperoxide moiety, and a plausible biosynthetic pathway of it was postulated. According to the reported biological properties of endoperoxide, the antimalarial, cytotoxic, antiviral, and target inhibitory activities of 1 were tested. Compound 1 showed mild in vitro antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum 3D7, weak cytotoxic activities toward Jurkat, MDA-MB-231, and U2OS cell lines, inhibitory effects against influenza A viruses H1N1 and PR8, as well as mild target inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase. The other compounds were evaluated for cytotoxicities against HeLa, HCT-116, and A549 tumor cell lines and target inhibitory activities against protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B). Compound 20 exhibited cytotoxicities against HeLa and HCT-116, and compounds 5, 11, and 15 showed mild target inhibitory activities against PTP1B.

Cytotoxic and Antiviral Triterpenoids from the Mangrove Plant Sonneratia paracaseolaris

A chemical investigation was conducted on the aerial parts of the mangrove plant Sonneratia paracaseolaris, yielding five new triterpenoid paracaseolins A-E (1-4, and 11) together with twelve known analogues (5-10, 12-17). Their structures were established by extensive spectroscopic methods and comparisons their spectroscopic data with those of the known related compounds. The cytotoxicities against P388, HeLa, A549, and K562 tumor cell lines and anti-H1N1 (Influenza A virus) activities for the isolates were evaluated. Compound 4 showed potent cytotoxicity against the A549 cell line with an IC50 value of 1.89 µM, and compound 1 exhibited significant anti-H1N1 virus activity with an IC50 value of 28.4 µg/mL. A preliminary structure activity relationship was discussed.

[Clinical and genetic analysis for activated PI3K-δ syndrome by PIK3CD gene mutation]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze clinical and genetic features of activated PI3K-δ syndrome (APDS), a new form of immunodeficiency disease caused by PIK3CD gene mutation.

METHOD

Data of two patients diagnosed as APDS at Second Department of Respiratory Medicine of Beijing Children's Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University in 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Pathogenetic genes were screened by whole exome sequencing, and identified by first generation sequencing. The identified pathogenetic genes were further verified in patients' parents. Then the gene sequencing results were analyzed.

RESULT

Both patients were females, aged 2 years and 4 months and 5 years respectively. The main clinical features of both cases were recurrent respiratory infections, enlargement of lymph node, hepatosplenomegaly, cytomegalovirus (CMV) or Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) viremia, decreased number of native CD4(+) T cell, inverted CD4(+) /CD8(+) T cell ratio and increased IgM. Patient 1 has decreased IgA and IgG. Patient 2 showed wide follicular hyperplasia of the airway mucosa. Both patients had de novo mutation in c. 3061G>A(E1021K)of PIK3CD gene, which was homozygous in patient 1 and heterozygous in patient 2. Both were treated with 500 mg/kg dose of gamma globulin intravenously at 4-weeks interval. Patient 1 started oral rapamycin therapy at the dose of 1 mg/(m(2)·d) and discontinued the treatment after 2 weeks. Patient 2 was given low dose of oral prednisone. The two patients were followed up for 2 months. The number of respiratory infection in both patients was decreased. Hepatosplenomegaly was subsided, while respiratory tract damage was not improved in patient 2.

CONCLUSION

The clinical manifestations of APDS include recurrent respiratory tract infection, enlargement of lymph nodes, hepatosplenomegaly, and CMV or EBV infection. The immunophenotype is decreased native CD4(+) T cell, inverted CD4(+) /CD8(+) T cell ratio, increased IgM and decreased IgA/IgG for some patients. c. 3061G>A(E1021K)of PIK3CD gene is a common de novo mutation in APDS patients.

Pyrrole Derivatives and Diterpene Alkaloids from the South China Sea Sponge Agelas nakamurai

Two pairs of new non-brominated racematic pyrrole derivatives, (±)-nakamurine D (1) and (±)-nakamurine E (2), two new diterpene alkaloids, isoagelasine C (16) and isoagelasidine B (21), together with 13 known pyrrole derivatives ((±)-3 - 15), five known diterpene alkaloids (17 - 20, 22) were isolated from the South China Sea sponge Agelas nakamurai. The racemic mixtures, compounds 1 - 4, were resolved into four pairs of enantiomers, (+)-1 and (-)-1, (+)-2 and (-)-2, (+)-3 and (-)-3, and (+)-4 and (-)-4, by chiral HPLC. The structures and absolute configurations were elucidated on the basis of comprehensive spectroscopic analyses, quantum chemical calculations, quantitative measurements of molar rotations, application of van't Hoff's principle of optical superposition, and comparison with the literature data. The NMR and MS data of compound 3 are reported for the first time, as the structure was listed in SciFinder Scholar with no associated reference. These non-brominated pyrrole derivatives were found in this species for the first time. Compound 18 showed valuable cytotoxicities against HL-60, K562, and HCT-116 cell lines with IC₅₀ values of 12.4, 16.0, and 19.8 μm, respectively. Compounds 16 - 19, 21, and 22 showed potent antifungal activities against Candida albicans with MIC values ranging from 0.59 to 4.69 μg/ml. Compounds 16 - 19 exhibited moderate antibacterial activities against Proteusbacillus vulgaris (MIC values ranging from 9.38 to 18.75 μg/ml).

The Cold Hardiness of Phrynocephalus erythrurus, the Lizard Living at Highest Altitude in the World

BACKGROUND

Phrynocephalus erythrurus living at Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, is believed to be the highest lizard in the world, but we know little about how these lizards cope with very low temperatures in winter.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to find the difference of the lizards before and after cold acclimatization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study the limit of supercooling and inoculative freezing, the concentration of four organic osmolytes, and the activity of lactate dehydrogenase in the plasma were measured in samples shortly after capture and in other samples after 7~8 weeks of acclimatization at 2~4 degree C.

RESULTS

Animals acquired an ability to undergo deeper supercooling and inoculative freezing through the course of acclimatization. We find no regular changes of the four organic osmolytes after the acclimatization.

CONCLUSION

We think that this species of lizard is partly freeze-tolerant and conclude that it uses supercooling to survive in winter.

[Current diagnosis and treatment of pseudoaneurysms of the internal carotid artery in postirradiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma]

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is one of the most common of head and neck malignant tumors in southern region of China. Till date radiotherapy is considered as the first choice of treatment this disease.Although the rate of occurrence of pseudoaneurysms of the internal carotid artery in post radiation treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma is low, it is also a hot topic in department of otolaryngology and doctors because of its dangerous and lifethreatening emergencies.In order to improve the level of diagnosis and treatment of the disease, diagnosis, risk, treatment, prognosis and prevention are current summarized in this report.

Cyclopentenone derivatives and polyhydroxylated steroids from the soft coral Sinularia acuta

Four new polyhydroxylated steroids, 1-4, and the racemic form of cyclopentenone 9, together with four known steroids, 5-8, one known cyclopentenone derivative, 10, and one known butenolide derivative, 11, were isolated from the soft coral Sinularia acuta collected from Weizhou Island of Guangxi Province, P. R. China. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analyses and by comparison of the corresponding data with those previously reported. The cytotoxicities of the isolates 1-11 in vitro against the selected tumor cell lines HL-60, HeLa, and K562 were evaluated. Compounds 2 and 5 showed potent cytotoxicities against HL-60 cell lines with IC50 values of 7.3 and 9.9 μM, respectively. Compounds 5 and 6 showed moderate activities against K562 cell lines with IC50 values of 10.9 and 11.7 μM, respectively, while compounds 1, 2, and 6 showed weak activities against HeLa cell lines with respective IC50 values of 44.8, 27.1, and 18.2 μM. This is the first report on chemical and bioactivity research of S. acuta.

Associations of depression with impaired glucose regulation, newly diagnosed diabetes and previously diagnosed diabetes in Chinese adults

AIM

To examine the association between depression and impaired glucose regulation, newly diagnosed diabetes and previously diagnosed diabetes in middle-aged and elderly Chinese people, and whether depression was associated with different treatment regimens or durations of diabetes.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was performed among 229,047 adults living in the community aged ≥ 40 years from 25 centres in China. The self-reported depression rating scale Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) was used to diagnose probable and sub-threshold depression. Glucose metabolism status was determined according to World Health Organization 1999 diagnostic criteria.

RESULTS

The numbers of participants with normal glucose regulation, impaired glucose regulation, newly diagnosed diabetes and previously diagnosed diabetes were 120,458, 59,512, 24,826 and 24,251, respectively. The prevalence of sub-threshold depression in the total sample of participants was 4.8% (4.8%, 4.8%, 4.4% and 5.6% from normal glucose regulation to previously diagnosed diabetes, respectively), and the prevalence of probable depression was 1.1% (1.1%, 1.0%, 0.9% and 1.8% from normal glucose regulation to previously diagnosed diabetes, respectively). Compared with participants with normal glucose regulation, those with previously diagnosed diabetes had increased odds of probable depression [odds ratio (OR) = 1.61, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.39-1.87] and sub-threshold depression (OR = 1.14, 95% CI 1.06-1.24), after adjustment for multiple confounding factors. Newly diagnosed diabetes or impaired glucose regulation was not associated with depression. Among those with previously diagnosed diabetes, insulin treatment was associated with greater odds of depression compared with no treatment or oral anti-diabetic medicine.

CONCLUSION

Previously diagnosed diabetes, but not newly diagnosed diabetes or impaired glucose regulation, was associated with a higher prevalence of depression. Patients receiving insulin were more likely to have depression than those not receiving treatment or being treated with oral anti-diabetic medicine.

Cycloartane triterpenoids and their glycosides from the rhizomes of Cimicifuga foetida

A phytochemical study on the rhizomes of Cimicifuga foetida resulted in the isolation of two new cycloartane triterpenoids (1 and 2), eight new cycloartane glycosides (3-10), and six known cycloartane glycoside analogues (11-16). The structures of 1-10 were determined by application of spectroscopic methods, with the absolute configuration of 1 determined by X-ray crystallography. Compounds 1-6, as three pairs of epimers at C-10 and C-24, belong to a seven-membered-ring variant of 9,10-seco-9,19-cycloartane triterpenoids, and glycosides 3-10 were found to be 3-O-β-D-xylopyranosides. The cytotoxicity of the isolates was evaluated against five selected human tumor cell lines, and the known compounds 15 and 16 showed cytotoxicity against the hepatocellular carcinoma SMMC-7721 cell line with IC50 values of 5.5 and 6.3 μM, respectively.

Polyhydroxylated steroids from the South China Sea soft coral Sarcophyton sp. and their cytotoxic and antiviral activities

Chemical investigation on the soft coral Sarcophyton sp. collected from the South China Sea yielded three new polyhydroxylated steroids, compounds (1-3), together with seven known ones (4-10). Their structures were established by extensive spectroscopic methods and comparison of their data with those of the related known compounds. All the isolates possessed the 3β,5α,6β-trihydroxylated steroidal nucleus. The cytotoxicities against selected HL-60, HeLa and K562 tumor cell lines and anti-H1N1 (Influenza A virus (IAV)) activities for the isolates were evaluated. Compounds 2, 3 and 5-8 exhibited potent activities against K562 cell lines with IC₅₀ values ranging from 6.4 to 10.3 μM. Compounds 1, 6-8 potently inhibited the growth of HL-60 tumor cell lines, and 6 also showed cytotoxicity towards HeLa cell lines. In addition, preliminary structure-activity relationships for the isolates are discussed. The OAc group at C-11 is proposed to be an important pharmacophore for their cytotoxicities in the 3β,5α,6β-triol steroids. Compounds 4 and 9 exhibited significant anti-H1N1 IAV activity with IC₅₀ values of 19.6 and 36.7 μg/mL, respectively.

Bioassay-guided isolation of neo-clerodane diterpenoids from Scutellaria barbata

Bioassay-guided isolation of the aerial part of Scutellaria barbata yielded three new neo-clerodane diterpenoids scutebatas P-R (1-3), together with two known ones: scutebata E (4) and scutebarbatine B (5). The chemical structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic methods (NMR and MS) and by comparison with the spectroscopic data reported in the literature. All compounds except 3 showed weak cytotoxicity with IC50 values ranging from 35.11 to 42.73 μM against K562 cell lines, and compounds 1, 2, and 5 also displayed weak activities against HL60 cell lines.

SLE disease per se contributes to deterioration in bone mineral density, microstructure and bone strength

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this report is to assess the effect of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) disease itself on deterioration of bone mineral density (BMD), microstructure and bone strength.

METHOD

Thirty age-matched SLE patients on long-term glucocorticoids (GC) (SLE/GC), 30 SLE patients without GC (SLE/non-GC) and 60 healthy controls were examined. Areal BMD (aBMD) was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Bone geometry, volumetric BMD (vBMD), and architectural parameters at the nondominant distal radius were assessed by high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT). Bone strength was estimated by HR-pQCT-based micro-finite element analysis.

RESULTS

Adjusted for menopausal status and adjusted calcium level, when compared with controls, SLE/non-GC patients had significantly lower aBMD at femoral neck and total hip, and diminished radial total vBMD, cortical area, vBMD and thickness, respectively, by 8.3%, 8%, 2.7% and 9.2%, as well as significant compromised bone strength (stiffness, failure load and apparent modulus) by 8.3%, 9.1% and 9.5%, respectively. Similar alterations were also found in SLE/GC patients when compared to controls. In the premenopausal subgroup analysis, when compared with controls, total hip aBMD and radial cortical area were significantly lower in SLE/non-GC patients, and cortical area and thickness were significantly deficit in SLE/GC patients. However, no significant difference in any bone variables was present between SLE/GC and SLE/non-GC patients in the entire cohort or in the premenopausal subgroup.

CONCLUSION

SLE disease per se contributes to the deterioration in bone density, cortical microstructure and bone strength. This might help to explain the considerably higher fracture risk seen in SLE patients.

Alterations of bone geometry, density, microarchitecture, and biomechanical properties in systemic lupus erythematosus on long-term glucocorticoid: a case-control study using HR-pQCT

Compared to controls, HR-pQCT at distal radius of SLE patients on chronic glucocorticoid (SLE/GC) revealed reduced bone area, vBMD, deteriorated microarchitecture, and unevenly distributed stresses limited to cortical bone. Despite similar trabecular quality, whole bone strength decreased in patients. These alterations may partly explain high fracture rates in SLE/GC.

INTRODUCTION

To assess bone geometric, densitometric, microarchitectural, and biomechanical properties in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) on long-term glucocorticoid (GC) (SLE/GC) as compared with healthy controls.

METHODS

A total of 180 female SLE patients and 180 healthy controls were in this cross-sectional study to assess areal bone mineral density (aBMD) by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. High-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) and microfinite element analysis (μFEA) was performed at distal radius.

RESULTS

In addition to significantly lower aBMD at femoral neck, total hip and lumbar spine, cortical area, average volumetric BMD (vBMD) and cortical vBMD also significantly reduced by 5.3, 5.7, to 1.9 % in SLE patients, respectively. Deteriorations of cortical microarchitecture were pronounced in patients, with 6.3 % reduction in cortical thickness and 13.6 % higher in cortical porosity. Local stresses were more unevenly distributed through cortical bone in patients. SLE/GC patients had decreased whole bone stiffness, estimated failure load, and apparent modulus. Parameters related to trabecular bone density and microarchitecture were comparable between patients and controls.

CONCLUSION

In SLE/GC patients, despite a reduction in bone area, vBMD and deteriorated microarchitecture and unevenly distributed stresses limited to the cortical compartment, whole bone strength decreased. HR-pQCT and μFEA were promising in elucidating the potential underlying pathophysiology of bone loss and propensity to fracture in SLE/GC and provide us additional information about alterations of bone quality which might better predict fracture risk beyond aBMD in SLE/GC.

Ferulic acid induces heme oxygenase-1 via activation of ERK and Nrf2

This study investigated the effect of ferulic acid (FA) on the up-regulation of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in lymphocytes and the molecular mechanisms involved. Lymphocytes were treated with FA (0.001-0.1 μM) for certain times. Cell viability, the activity and level of expression of HO-1, and signal pathways were analyzed. FA significantly upregulated HO-1 expression both at the level of mRNA and protein in lymphocytes. Moreover, FA induced NF-E2-related factor (Nrf2) nuclear translocation and transcriptional activity, which is upstream of FA induced HO-1 expression. In addition, lymphocytes treated with FA exhibited activation of extracellular regulated kinase (ERK) and treatments with U0126 (an ERK kinase inhibitor) attenuated the FA induced activation of Nrf2, resulting in a decrease in HO-1 expression. Zinc protoporphyrin (ZnPP, a HO-1 inhibitor) markedly suppressed cytoprotection from radiation-induced cell damage by FA. Results suggested that the ERK signaling pathway controlled the anti-oxidation of FA by regulating the expression of the antioxidant enzyme HO-1.

Computer aided diagnosis system for breast cancer based on color Doppler flow imaging

Color Doppler flow imaging takes a great value in diagnosing and classifying benign and malignant breast lesions. However, scanning of color Doppler sonography is operator-dependent and ineffective. In this paper, a novel breast classification system based on B-Mode ultrasound and color Doppler flow imaging is proposed. First, different feature extraction methods were used to obtain the texture and geometric features from B-Mode ultrasound images. In color Doppler feature extraction stage, several spectrum features are extracted by applying blood flow velocity analysis to Doppler signals. Moreover, a velocity coherent vector method is proposed based on color coherence vector, which is helpful for designing to the optimize detection of flow indices from different blood flow velocity fields automatically. Finally, a support vector machine classifier with selected feature vectors is used to classify breast tumors into benign and malignant. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed computer-aided diagnosis system is useful for reducing the unnecessary biopsy and death rate.

[Distribution of PAHs in surface seawater of Qingdao coast area and their preliminary apportionment]

The 15 parent PAHs in surface seawater from Qingdao coastal areas have been quantified by solid phase extraction-high performance liquid chromatography with fluorescent detection. The results showed that the concentration of total PAHs ranged from 8.23 ng x L(-1) to 272.02 ng x L(-1), with highest concentration near estuary and lowest at rural location. As for PAHs composition, 2, 3 ring PAHs were dominant, with percentage ranged from 52.2% to 93.8%, while the remaining were 4 to 6 ring PAHs which were ranged from 6.2% to 47.8%. The concentration of total PAHs correlates strongly with dissolved organic carbon (R = 0.944 7) in surface seawater. There was no significant fluctuation in the concentration and composition of PAHs in surface seawater from Qingdao bay area in a one-month period. The two ratios of paired PAH isomeric compounds, fluoranthene to fluoranthene plus pyrene[ Fl/(Fl + Py)] and anthracene to phenanthrene plus anthracene [An/(An + Ph)], for source apportionment suggested that various petroleum related sources, such as oil spill and petroleum combustion, were the major origin at most sampling sites, except in clean areas where PAHs were predominantly derived from coal and wood combustion.

Genome-wide identification, classification, and analysis of two-component signal system genes in maize

Cytokinins play many vital roles in plant development and physiology. In plants, cytokinin signals are sensed and transduced by the two-component signal system. This signaling cascade is typically composed of three proteins: a sensory histidine kinase, a histidine phosphotransfer protein, and a response regulator. Through a comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the maize (Zea mays) genome, 48 genes were identified, including 11 ZmHKs, 9 ZmHPs, and 28 ZmRRs (21 A-type ZmRRs and 7 B-type ZmRRs). Using maize genome sequence databases, we analyzed conserved protein motifs and established phylogenetic relationships based on gene structure, homology, and chromosomal location. The duplication of these two-component system genes in the maize genome corresponded to the clusters of these genes in the phylogenetic trees. Sequence analysis of the duplicate genes demonstrated that one gene may be in gene duplication, and that there was significant variation in the evolutionary history of the different gene families. We assessed the expression levels of all ZmRRs in the leaves and roots by reverse transcription PCR; they were all found to be active. Our results provide a foundation for functional and evolutionary studies on maize two-component signal system proteins.

Seasonal variation of the particle size distribution of n-alkanes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in urban aerosol of Guangzhou, China

Seasonal aerosol samples have been collected by Andersen Hi-Vol pumping system equipped with a five stage cascade impactor and a backup filter (size range: 10-7.2 microm, 7.2-3.0 microm, 3.0-1.5 microm, 1.5-0.95 microm, 0.95-0.49 microm, <or=0.49 microm) in the Liwan district, Guangzhou. n-Alkanes were measured using gas chromatography and PAHs were measured using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis. The bimodal log-normal distributions of n-alkanes and semi-volatile PAHs were found, while for non-volatile PAHs that was unimodal, so much as the mode of semi-volatile PAHs was similar with that of the particles. The n-alkanes and PAHs were preferably associated with fine particles. C (max) (carbon number maximum) (C(22)-C(26)), CPI (carbon preference index) (1.12-1.21), U/R (unresolved to resolved components ratio) (7.42-10.7), wax% (0.9-3.12%) and the diagnostic ratios for PAHs revealed that vehicular emission was the major source of these organic compounds during the study periods, while the contribution of epicuticular waxes emitted by terrestrial plants was minor. CPI(2) (values for petrogenic hydrocarbons), CPI(3) (values for biogenic n-alkanes) and wax% revealed that the natural preferentially accumulated in the larger aerosol while the anthropogenic in the smaller. In addition, the different MMDs (mass median diameters) for n-alkanes and PAHs were observed in different seasons. The MMDs for n-alkanes and PAHs were higher in autumn/winter than those in spring/summer. The seasonal effect was related to the hydrocarbon content in the individual particulate fractions, showing a preferential association of n-alkanes and PAHs with larger particles in the autumn/winter season.

Use of bispecific antibodies in molecular velcro assays whose specificity approaches the theoretical limit of immunodetection for Bordetella pertussis

A bispecific monoclonal antibody (bsMAb) that detects Bordetella pertussis, the causative agent of whooping cough, and horseradish peroxidase (HRPO) has been developed by use of the quadroma technology. A quadroma, P123, was produced by fusing two well-characterized hybridomas against the bacterium and the enzyme and was subcloned to obtain a stable bsMAb-secreting cell line. The quadroma was theoretically expected to produce up to 10 different molecular species of immunoglobulins, so secreted bispecific antibody was complexed with excess HRPO and the HRPO-bsMAb complex was purified in one step by benzhydroxamic acid-agarose affinity cochromatography. An ultrasensitive homosandwich molecular "velcro" enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the detection of B. pertussis whole bacteria with HRPO-bsMAb was established in both microplate and nasopharyngeal swab formats. This assay demonstrates a high sensitivity that approaches the theoretical limit of detection of one bacterium. This new nanoprobe can be used to develop a new generation of assays that are simple, inexpensive alternatives to quantitative PCR and that can be used by clinical laboratories. This strategy of homosandwich assays with solid-phase monospecific antibodies and solution-phase bsMAb with specificity for the same repeating surface determinants can be applied to generate ultrasensitive immunodiagnostic assays for viruses and bacteria.

[Changes in T-lymphocyte subsets of peripheral blood in patients with filarial chyluria]

OBJECTIVE

To study the changes in T-lymphocyte subsets CD4+:CD8+ of peripheral blood in 29 patients with present chyluria(PPC), 29 patients with chyluria history but without chyluria (PNPC) and 38 healthy controls.

METHODS

The determination of CD3+, CD4+ and CD8+ was conducted using test reagents kits.

RESULTS

The percentage of CD3+, CD4+ cell were signfcantly decreased in PPS group than in PNPC and healthy control group, the ratio of CD4+/CD8+ being under 1.0. The T-lymphocyte subsets (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+) and CD4+/CD8+ ratio of both PNPC and healthy control group were all within normal range.

CONCLUSION

The immune function of the patients with filarial chyluria was impaired in terms of the changes in T-lymphocyte subsets.

[Synthesis and determination for enantiomeric purity of 6-fluoro-L-DOPA]

AIM

To study the synthesis and determination for enantiomeric purity of 6-fluoro-L-3, 4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (6-fluoro-L-DOPA, 6-FDOPA).

METHODS

2-(2-Fluoro-4, 5-dimethoxybenzyl)-N-(diphenylmethylene) glycine tert-butyl ester (8), a new compound, was synthesized from the starting material nitroveratraldehyde via the nucleophilic displacement, reductive iodination, and chiral catalytic phase-transfer alkylation, and 6-FDOPA was prepared from hydrolysis of 8. The enantiomeric purity of 6-FDOPA was determined by HPLC method using a chiral mobil phase and reversed-phase C18 column.

RESULTS

The total time of synthesis was less than 90 min, the overall chemical yield from potassium fluoride was about 33%, and the enantiomeric purity was above 95%.

CONCLUSION

Large scale production of 6-FDOPA and automatic synthesis of 6-[18F]fluoro-L-DOPA with excellent chemical and entiomeric purity are available. The practical technique was provided for the radiochemical synthesis and entiomeric purity of 6-[18F]fluoro-L-DOPA.

Protection of IB-MECA against myocardial stunning in conscious rabbits is not mediated by the A1 adenosine receptor

The goal of this study was to determine whether the protective effects of the A3AR agonist N6-(3-iodobenzyl)adenosine-5'-N-methylcarboxamide (IB-MECA) against myocardial stunning are mediated by the A1AR. Six groups of conscious rabbits underwent a sequence of six 4-minute coronary occlusion (O)/4-minute reperfusion (R) cycles for three consecutive days (days 1, 2, and 3). In vehicle-treated rabbits (group I), the recovery of systolic wall thickening (WTh) in the ischemic/reperfused region was markedly depressed on day 1, indicating the presence of severe myocardial stunning. On days 2 and 3, however, the recovery of systolic WTh was markedly accelerated, indicating the presence of late ischemic preconditioning (PC). When rabbits were pretreated with the A1AR agonist 2-chloro-N6-cyclopentyladenosine (CCPA, 100 microg/kg i.v.) or with IB-MECA (100 microg/kg i.v.) 10 min prior to the first sequence of O/R cycles on day 1 (group III and V, respectively), the recovery of systolic WTh was markedly accelerated compared to vehicle-treated animals (reflected as an approximately 48% decrease in the total deficit of systolic WTh). The magnitude of the protection afforded by adenosine receptor agonists was equivalent to that provided by late ischemic PC. Pre-treating rabbits with the A1AR antagonist N-0861 completely blocked both the hemodynamic and the cardioprotective effects of CCPA (group IV). However, the same dose of N-0861 did not block the cardioprotective actions of IB-MECA (group VI). Importantly, N-0861 did not influence the degree of myocardial stunning in the absence of PC (group II) and it did not block the development of late ischemic PC. Taken together, these results provide conclusive evidence that the cardioprotective effects of IB-MECA are not mediated via the A1AR, supporting the concept that activation of A3ARs prior to an ischemic challenge provides protection against ischemia/reperfusion injury.