[A comparative study on the depth of cure, hardness and microleakage applied to primary teeth of different types of bulk-fill resins]

Objective: To compare the depth of cure, surface hardness and microleakage applied to primary teeth of three types of bulk-fill resins, so as to provide reference for clinical application. Methods: Composite resin FiltekTM Z350 XT (group A) and giomer Beautifil Ⅱ (group B) were used as controls, high-viscosity bulk-fill resin FiltekTM Bulk Fill (group C), sonic-activated bulk-fill resin SonicFill 2 (group D) and flowable bulk-fill resin SDR® flow+(group E) were studied. The microstructure of each group was observed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Specimens of each group were prepared (6 pieces per group), and the Vickers microhardness of the surface layer and different depths of each group were measured, and then the depths of cure were calculated. Twenty-five primary molars dentin were filled by resins of each group (5 teeth per group), sliced, then aged, slices of each group were developed by silver ion staining. SEM was used to observed the distribution of silver ions. Microleakage of each group were analyzed by Jonckheere-Terpstra rank sum test. Results: SEM showed that the filler particles in groups A and C were spherical and evenly distributed. The shape of the fillers in groups B, D and E were polygonal and unevenly distributed. The surface hardness of groups A, B, C, D and E were (84.97±6.30), (65.04±5.95), (57.80±1.18), (60.77±2.34), (33.32±1.83) MPa respectively. Group A had the highest hardness, while group E was the lowest, and the differences between the two groups and other groups was statistically significant (P<0.05). There were no statistically significant differences among groups B, C, and D (P>0.05). The curing depths of groups A, B, C, D and E were 2.6, 3.4, 5.8, 3.8 and 7.8 mm respectively. The largest microleakage was found in group E [2% (1/50) for grade 0, 22% (11/50) for grade 1, 30% (15/50) for grade 2, 24% (12/50) for grade 3, and 22% (11/50)for grade 4], which was statistically different from other groups (P<0.05). No statistically significant differences were found among other 3 groups (P>0.05). Conclusions: Both high-viscosity and sonic-activated bulk-fill resins have the greater depth of cure, the same hardness and microleakage as giomer, which might be an option for restoration in primary teeth.

[Preliminary report on the use of total lumpectomyconical remnant gastric - esophagus side overlap anastomosis in radical resection of Siewert type II proximal gastric cancer]

Objective: There is no standard method for esophageal remnant gastric reconstruction for proximal gastrectomy. Reflux esophagitis caused by esophagogastrostomy remains a difficult surgical problem. To report the preliminary surgical results of novel esophagus-conical remnant gastric side overlap anastomosis (CGEO) , with particular emphasis on postoperative esophageal reflux. Methods: In June 2022, we developed a novel CGEO for laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy on two patients with Siewert type II esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma. Surgical procedures for CGEO: (1) Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy and preparation of conically shaped gastric remnant; (2) Determining anastomotic site of residual stomach and esophagus; (3) Side-to-side anastomosis of right esophageal wall to anterior of conical gastric remnant; (4) Valvuloplasty of esophageal stump. Results: Case 1 was a 71-year-old man with an operation time of 305 minutes and was successfully discharged from the hospital on the 9th day after surgery, and the postoperative pathology was T3N0M0. Case 2 was an 82-year-old man with an operation time of 325 minutes. He was discharged on the 10th day after surgery. In both cases, only mild esophageal mucosal changes were seen in gastroscopy, there were no obvious symptoms of esophageal reflux. There was also no significant weight change at half a year after operation. Conclusion: CGEO is moderately safe in radical surgery for proximal gastric cancer, and may have a preventive effect on the occurrence of postoperative esophageal reflux, but long-term results need to be confirmed by further studies with follow-up.

Production of metallic ion beams by electron cyclotron resonance ion sources equipped with inductive heating ovens at the Institute of Modern Physics

A high-temperature oven based on the inductive heating technology was developed successfully at the Institute of Modern Physics in 2019. This oven features a durable operation temperature of over 2000 °C inside the tantalum susceptor. By carefully designing the oven structure, the material compatibility issue at high temperature has been successfully solved, which enables the production and routine operation of refractory metal ions with SECRAL-II (Superconducting Electron Cyclotron Resonance ion source with Advanced design in Lanzhou No. 2). To further apply this type of oven to the room temperature ECR ion sources LECR4 and LECR5 (Lanzhou Electron Cyclotron Resonance ion source No. 4 and 5), a mini-inductive heating oven has been fabricated and tested in 2020. By directly evaporating calcium oxide, some high charge state calcium beams have been produced successfully, such as 52 euA of ⁴⁰Ca¹⁶⁺, 30 euA of ⁴⁰Ca¹⁷⁺, and 12 euA of ⁴⁰Ca¹⁸⁺. The detailed design and testing results will be presented and discussed.

Efficient all-optical router and beam splitter for light with orbital angular momentum

We propose an efficient scheme for realizing all-optical router or beam splitter (BS) by employing a double tripod-type atomic system, where the ground levels are coupled by two additional intensity-dependent weak microwave fields. We show that the high-dimensional probe field encoded in a degree of freedom of orbital angular momentum can be stored, retrieved, and manipulated. Due to the constructive or destructive interference between the introduced microwave fields and the atomic spin coherence, the generated stationary light pulses and the retrieved probe fields can be increased or decreased with high efficiency and fidelity in a controllable manner. On the basis of the results and a general extension, a tunable all-optical router or BS, which can split a high-dimensional probe field into two or more ones, can be achieved by actively operating the controlling fields and the microwave fields. The current scheme, integrating multiple functions and showing excellent performance, could greatly enhance the tunability and capacity for the all-optical information processing.

[Investigation and analysis of quality of life of some pneumoconiosis patients in Hangzhou]

Objective: To understand the quality of life and influencing factors of patients with pneumoconiosis, and to provide a basis for formulating targeted improvement strategies to improve the quality of life. Methods: From April to December 2018, Questionnaire survey was conducted on patients with pneumoconiosis that diagnosed in Hangzhou Hospital for the Prevention and Treatment of Occupational Disease, using self-made questionnaire and SF-36.237 valid questionnaires were used to investigate the basic conditions, health services, social assistance and quality of life of patients, and analyze the influencing factors of quality of life. Results: Hangzhou city's some pneumoconiosis patients were mostly with monthly income <3000 yuan (72.6%, 172/237) ; more patients with medical expenses of 8000 to 25000 yuan per year (60.3%, 143/237) ; The proportion of patients receiving medical assistance and work-related injury insurance was low, at 2.1% (5/237) and 23.8% (54/227) respectively. The scores of Pneumoconiosis patients in PhysicalFunction (PF) , Role-Physical (RP) , Bodily Pain (BP) , General Health (GH) , Vitality (VT) , Social Function (SF) , Role-Emotional (RE) and Mental Health (MH) were lower than the national norm (P<0.05) . The scores from high to low were BP, SF, MH, PF, VT, RE, RP and GH. There were significant differences in the quality of life scores of pneumoconiosis patients with different ages, work types, education levels and monthly income (P<0.05) . Conclusion: The quality of life of some patients with pneumoconiosis in Hangzhou is lower than that of the general population. Age, work types, and monthly income are factors influencing quality of life.

Coherent generation and manipulation of entangled stationary photons based on a multiple degrees of freedom quantum memory

We propose a quantum memory, each subsystem of which is comprised of two double M-type systems of cold atoms, for the first generation of entangled stationary photons (ESPs). Through the active operation of two pairs of counter-propagating controlling fields in time, the reversible transfer of entanglement between photons and atomic ensembles is realized, and the ESPs can be created due to the tight coupling and balanced competition between the corresponding retrieved signal photons. The reduced density matrix in the photon-polarization basis, which provides the lower bound for any purported entanglement, is constructed for discussing the dynamics evolution of the entanglement in terms of the concurrence. We show that the present scheme can be employed for the entangled photons encoded in degrees of freedom (DOFs) of polarization and orbital angular momentum. Such a multiple DOFs dependent scheme, with many benefits over that in a single one, could pave the way toward quantum nonlinear optics without a cavity and could greatly enhance the tunability and capacity for the quantum information processing.

Accurate global potential energy surface by extrapolation to the complete basis set limit and dynamics studies for ground state of H2S. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2019;219:267-273. [PMID: 31048256 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2019.04.051]

The atomic ions with hydrogen reactions play important role in biological chemistry, atmospheric and combustion chemistry. In this work, a full three-dimensional global many-body expansion potential energy surface (PES) for the ground state of H₂S^-(²A') is reported for the first time, since there is almost no investigations can accurately and completely describe the PES. It is obtained using many-body expansion theory and an extensive set of accurate ab initio energies extrapolated to the complete basis set limit, for improving the accuracy of the potential energy surface. The topographical features of the new three-dimensional global potential energy surface are examined in detail, and found to be in good agreement with theoretical and experimental results. To better test the reaction, such a surface was applied to quasi classical trajectory calculations for S^-(²P)+H₂(¹Σ_g⁺)→SH^-(¹Σ)+H(²S) reaction. The integral cross sections, differential cross sections and the rate coefficients have been computed. Results indicate that such a work can be recommended for corresponding atmospheric dynamics studies and as building blocks for constructing the many body expansion potential energy surface of larger S^-/H containing systems.

Plans for the electron cyclotron heating system on J-TEXT

A new 105 GHz/500 kW/1 s electron cyclotron resonance heating (ECRH) system has been designed and being constructed on J-TEXT Tokamak. This system mainly consists of a microwave source, a transmission line, a launcher and other auxiliary units. Based on corrugated waveguides, the wave from the gyrotron can be efficiently transmitted with HE11 mode to the steerable quasi-optical launcher for injection. The transmission efficiency is about 85%, and the injection angle of the wave can be adjusted by the flat mirror of the launcher. Commissioning of this electron cyclotron heating system is scheduled to be done at 2019.

[The study on behaviour of protective equipment utilization of workers exposed to benzene and factors based on Planned Behavior Theory]

Objective: To investigate and predict the behavioral intention and mode of the protective equipment utilization selection of the workers who used Benzene, the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) was applied to establish the behavioral model to enhance the theoretical foundation for long-term intervention. Methods: Questionnaires were used to survey the 707 workers, and all the behaviors of using protective equipment were investigated. Evaluate the relationships between each variable and obtain the influence affects by structural equation model. Results: The investigation showed that 38.47% of the total workers (272 cases) used whole body protection, 13.58% used partially, and 16.69% didn't use any body protection. There were significant difference between the varying degrees in the four dimensions (behavioral attitude, perceived behavior control, subjective norm, and behavioral intention) (P<0.01) . The results of structural equation model revealed that perceived behavior control was the most important influencing factor, subjective norm, positive attitude, negative attitude were the other three respects in sequence. The path co-efficient were 0.600、0.215、0.141 and 0.046 respectively. Conclusion: The study show that the theory of planned behavior can effectively explain the behavioral intention and behavior of protective equipment utilization. Therefore, combining the subjective initiative of individuals with the supervision of enterprises, In order to effectively enhance the protective equipment utilization of benzene workers.

[An investigation of lanthanum and other metals levels in blood, urine and hair among residents in the rare earth mining area of a city in China]

Objective: To investigate the levels of lanthanum, cerium, praseodymium, and neodymium in the blood, urine, and hair samples from residents in the rare earth mining area of a city in China, and to provide a scientific basis for the control of rare earth pollution and the protection of population health. Methods: A total of 147 residents who had lived in the rare earth mining area of a city for a long time were selected as the exposure group, and 108 residents in Guyang County of this city who lived 91 km away from the rare earth mining area were selected as the control group. Blood, urine, and hair samples were collected from the residents in both groups. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry was used to determine the content of lanthanum, cerium, praseodymium, and neodymium in blood, urine, and hair samples. Results: In the exposure group, the median levels of lanthanum, cerium, praseodymium, and neodymium were 0.854, 1.724, 0.132, and 0.839 μg/L, respectively, in blood samples, 0.420, 0.920, 0.055, and 0.337 μg/L, respectively, in urine samples, and 0.052, 0.106, 0.012, and 0.045 μg/g, respectively, in hair samples. The exposure group had significantly higher levels of the four rare earth elements in blood, urine, and hair samples than the control group (P<0.01) . Conclusion: The residents in the rare earth mining area of this city have higher content of lanthanum, cerium, praseodymium, and neodymium in blood, urine, and hair than those in the non-mining area; the content of cerium is highest, followed by lanthanum, neodymium, and praseodymium.

Efficient images storage via modulating the atomic spin coherence in a N-type system

A four-level N-type cold atomic system is proposed for optimizing images storage based on the electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT). Both analytical analysis and numerical simulation clearly show that the application, during the storage time, of an additional intensity-modulated signal field and an additional microwave field can impose an intensity and a phase-dependent factors on the atomic spin coherence in a controlled manner, then the amplitude of the retrieved images can be increased or decreased with an enhancement in the visibility. Our results are very promising for the realization of all-optical information processing of images coherently stored in EIT media in the future.

[Experimental observation of hyperbaric oxygen combined with radioactive seed implantation in the treatment of nude mice bearing esophageal squamous cell carcinoma]

Objective: To investigate the effect and mechanism of hyperbaric oxygen combined with radioactive seed implantation in the treatment of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Methods: Subcutaneous tumor model of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma using TE-8 cells was established. Tumor bearing Balb/c(nu/nu) mice (60 mice) were divided into four groups, Cont group that treated with normal oxygen level, HBO group that treated with hyperbaric oxygen, RSI group that treated with radioactive seed implantation, and HBO+ RSI group that treated with hyperbaric oxygen combined with radioactive seed implantation. Tumor volume ratio and mean survival time of tumor bearing mice were observed. Pathological changes of tumor tissue after treatment were observed by hematoxylin eosin (HE) staining. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay kit was used to detect oxidative stress. Apoptosis related proteins were detected by Western blot. Results: After treatment, the tumor volume ratio of HBO+ RSI group was 3.51±0.80 and was significantly lower than that of Cont group, HBO group, and RSI group (P<0.05). The mean survival time of HBO+ RSI group tumor bearing mice was 62 d and was significantly longer than that in Cont group, HBO group, and RSI group (P<0.05). HE staining showed that the pathological changes of tumor tissues were most obvious in HBO+ RSI group. After treatment, the MDA and Bax levels in nude mice of HBO+ RSI group were significantly higher than those in Cont group, HBO group and RSI group, but the levels of GSH, SOD and Bcl-2 were significantly lower than those of Cont group, HBO group and RSI group (P<0.05). Conclusion: Hyperbaric oxygen combined with radioactive seed implantation could slow tumor growth and increase survival time of tumor bearing mice. The possible mechanism is that hyperbaric oxygen combined with radioactive seed implantation can improve the oxidative stress response and the expression of apoptosis protein in tumor bearing nude mice.

[Response and prognosis of neoadjuvant dose-dense or standard schedule chemotherapy with anthracyclines and taxanes for Luminal B breast cancer]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant dose-dense or standard schedule chemotherapy with anthracyclines and taxanes for Luminal B (HER2-)Breast Cancer. Methods: From January 2010 to December 2014, 168 Luminal B (HER2-) breast cancer patients with stageⅡA-ⅢC confirmed by pathology were randomly assigned to receive one of the following regimens: (group A) concurrent TEC× 4 every 3 weeks, ( group B ) sequential EC× 4-T × 4 every 3 weeks, (group C ) dose-dense TEC× 4 every 2 weeks with G-CSF, (group D) sequential EC× 4(dose-dense)-T × 4 with dose-dense every 2 weeks . Results: A total of 168 patients completed the neoadjuvant chemotherapy as planned. The pathologic complete response (pCR) was 16.8% in the 4 groups.The pCR were 30.9% and 26.1% in the group C and group D respectively, significantly higher than patients with group A and group B(9.5%and 7.1%) ( P<0.05). Median follow-up was 43 months (IQR 3-63). The 3-year disease free survival (DFS) rate was 64.7%, 55.5%, 87.8% and 92.1% and the 3-year overall survival(OS)rate was 79.4%, 77.7%, 95.1%, 97.3% in the 4 groups respectively. Patients in the dose-dense group had better 3-year DFS and 3-year OS than those with the regular group.The side-effects could be evaluated in 154 patients.The incidence of neutropenia was 29.2% and 21.9% in the group C and group D versus 65.7%and 51.3% in the regular group(P<0.05), the incidence of nervous toxicity was 54.2%, 18.9%, 60.0%, 26.8% in the 4 groups respectively. The incidence of nervous toxicity in the dose-dense group was lower than that in the regular regimen group(P<0.05). Conclusion: Neoadjuvant dose-dense chemotherapy with anthracyclines and taxanes for Luminal B (HER2-)Breast Cancer was effective and can improve the pCR, DFS and OS.Comparing the two dose dense regimens, sequentially with anthracyclines and taxanes, the incidence of nervous toxicity were lower.

Analysis of serum microRNA expression in male workers with occupational noise-induced hearing loss

Occupational noise-induced hearing loss (ONIHL) is a prevalent occupational disorder that impairs auditory function in workers exposed to prolonged noise. However, serum microRNA expression in ONIHL subjects has not yet been studied. We aimed to compare the serum microRNA expression profiles in male workers of ONIHL subjects and controls. MicroRNA microarray analysis revealed that four serum microRNAs were differentially expressed between controls (n=3) and ONIHL subjects (n=3). Among these microRNAs, three were upregulated (hsa-miR-3162-5p, hsa-miR-4484, hsa-miR-1229-5p) and one was downregulated (hsa-miR-4652-3p) in the ONIHL group (fold change >1.5 and P_bon value <0.05). Real time quantitative PCR was conducted for validation of the microRNA expression. Significantly increased serum levels of miR-1229-5p were found in ONIHL subjects compared to controls (n=10 for each group; P<0.05). A total of 659 (27.0%) genes were predicted as the target genes of miR-1229-5p. These genes were involved in various pathways, such as mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. Overexpression of miR-1229-5p dramatically inhibited the luciferase activity of 3′ UTR segment of MAPK1 (P<0.01). Compared to the negative control, HEK293T cells expressing miR-1229-5p mimics showed a significant decline in mRNA levels of MAPK1 (P<0.05). This preliminary study indicated that serum miR-1229-5p was significantly elevated in ONIHL subjects. Increased miR-1229-5p may participate in the pathogenesis of ONIHL through repressing MAPK1 signaling.

[Anomalous systemic arterial supply to normal basal segments of the lower lobe: three cases reports and literature review]

Objective: To improve the clinical recognition of anomalous systemic arterial supply to normal basal segments of the lower lobe in clinical manifestations, diagnosis and treatment. Methods: Three cases were presented and related literatures were reviewed. A literature review was performed with"anomalous systemic arterial supply to normal lower lobe of the lung","anomalous systemic arterial supply to normal basal segments of the lower lobe"and"anomalous systemic arterial supply to normal basal segments of the left lower lobe of the lung"as key words in Pubmed, Embase, Ovid, Wanfang database and CNKI. Result: Our 3 cases were male, with an average age of 36 years old; all of them were admitted with hemoptysis. Left lower lobectomy was performed in 2 cases, and the other 1 case underwent endovascular embolization. 26 related articles were retrieved and our 3 cases were included in this study with a total of 57 cases. The ratio of male to female was 2∶1 (38∶19), with an average age of about 35 years old. The most common symptom was hemoptysis (26/57), followed by asymptomatic (22/57). The main treatments included left lower lobectomy (17/47) and endovascular embolization of anomalous systemic artery (13/47). Conclusions: This disease is more common in male, and the most common symptom is hemoptysis. When chest CT scan shows a nodular retrocardiac density with hemoptysis symptom, clinicians and radiologists should raise suspicion of anomalous systemic arterial supply to normal basal segments of the lower lobe. Chest contrast-enhanced CT scan is an appropriate imaging method to confirm diagnosis. The main treatments include left lower lobectomy and endovascular embolization. For asymptomatic patient, observation may be an acceptable option.

[Screening on key techniques used for surveillance and disposal of public health emergencies]

Objective: To explore the key techniques used for surveillance and disposal of infectious diseases, food poisoning and hospital infection to improve the ability of surveillance and disposal on public health emergency. Methods: Framework on surveillance and disposal of infectious diseases, food poisoning and hospital infection was set up, based on literature review and expert group discussion. Delphi method and technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution comprehensive evaluation method were used for ordering preference by similarity, to screen key techniques set for surveillance and disposal of the above said events. Results: Framework to be used for selecting key techniques was designed, based on the classification of emergency events, processing cycle of emergency events and level of techniques. Twenty six public health experts were selected for a 2-round consultation, with their authority as 0.796. Ten key techniques with important significance for surveillance and disposal of infectious diseases, food poisoning and hospital infection were selected from each event. Among these key techniques, the early-warning system was recognized as the key technique, important for the surveillance and disposal of all three emergency events. Items as technology used for unknown pathogenic microorganism detection, personal protection, gene sequencing and tracing technology, microorganism molecular typing technology, nucleic acid detection technology etc. were the key techniques and need to develop for the surveillance and disposal of infectious diseases and iatrogenic infection. Data regarding key technologies on security and privacy, early warning and forecasting, field rapid detection were sorted out that all in need to improve the surveillance programs on disposal of infectious diseases and food poisoning. Data exchange appeared another key technique on infectious diseases, with toxin detection and other 5 techniques the key techniques for food poisoning. Data collection, standardization and other 3 techniques appeared as the key techniques on iatrogenic infection. Conclusions: Key techniques were selected in this study to meet the requirements of surveillance, disposal of infectious disease, food poisoning and iatrogenic infection. Authority of the experts got improved in the two-round consultation, ensuring the reliability of the results of screening and providing a scientific basis for the further research and priority development of the key techniques.

[Effects of trabecular metal augments for the reconstruction of Paprosky type Ⅲ acetabulum bone defects]

Objective: To investigate the methods and short-time clinical results of reconstruction of Paprosky type Ⅲ acetabulum bone defects by using tantalum augments. Methods: A total of 17 patients (17 hips) with Paprosky type Ⅲ acetabulum bone defects, treated with tantalum augments in revision of total hip arthroplasty at Department of Orthopedics Surgery in General Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army were retrospectively analyzed from March 2014 to May 2016.There were 6 males and 11 females aged from 23 to 74 years with an average of (50.2±16.3) years. Tantalum augments or TM-Cup augment (the cup-on-cup technique) were used to reconstruct the defects.The TM-Cup augment was the tantalum revision cup which was removed titanium ring. The cup-on-cup technique combined TM-Cup augment and biological acetabulum cup. Augments were served as the nonresorptive structural allograft in revision of total hip arthroplasty. Harris hip score was used to evaluate clinical effects. The vertical position of the rotation center was measured and analyzed. Radiographic assessments of the acetabular components were performed by DeLee-Charnley and the Anderson criteria and recorded postoperative complications. Results: All the patients were followed up from 3 to 29 months with an average of (16.2±5.4) months, tantalum augments and biological acetabulum cup were used in 13 patients, the TM-Cup augment and biological acetabulum cup were used in 4 patients. At the time of the latest follow-up, the mean Harris hip score increased compared to preoperatively (86.8±8.3 vs. 30.0±12.0) (t=12.78, P<0.01), the average vertical location of the center of rotation was decreased ((25.3±9.8) mm vs.(47.6±10.5)) mm (t=4.95, P<0.01). All the tantalum augments and biological acetabulum cups were stable, there were no infection, dislocation and other complications. Conclusions: The use of tantalum augments could be considered as an effective management of Paprosky type Ⅲ defects providing good clinical and radiographic outcomes in the short term.The cup-on-cup technique which was used in reconstruction of severe superior-invagination acetabular bone defects and restoration relatively normal center of rotation had special application value.

Facile preparation of S-doped magnetite hollow spheres for highly efficient sorption of uranium(vi)

S-Doped magnetite hollow spheres (S-doped MHS) were prepared, which exhibit fast and efficient sorption for uranium(vi).

Association of genetic variations in miR-146a rs2910164 and miR-149 rs11614913 with the development of classic Kaposi sarcoma

Classic Kaposi sarcoma is a type of vascular proliferative inflammatory disease. Previous studies have reported significant associations between microRNAs expression and the development of classic Kaposi sarcoma. Here, we conducted a case-control study to investigate the association between miR-146a and miR-149 genetic polymorphisms and risk of classic Kaposi sarcoma in a Chinese population. Both classic Kaposi sarcoma patients and healthy controls were recruited between December 2013 and October 2015. Genotyping of miR-146a and miR-149 was performed by polymerase chain reaction-coupled with restriction fragment length polymorphism. Results showed that the GG genotype of miR-146a was associated with increased risk to classic Kaposi sarcoma (OR = 6.00, 95%CI = 1.19-30.12), as compared with the CC genotype. In the recessive model, we found that the GG genotype carried a 4.55-fold increased risk to classic Kaposi sarcoma as compared with the CC + CG genotype (OR = 2.06, 95%CI = 1.04-20.29). In conclusion, our study demonstrated that miR-146a, but not miR-149 polymorphism, is associated with risk to classic Kaposi sarcoma in the Chinese population.

Characterization of the complete mitochondrial genome and phylogenetic relationships of the three-spot swimming crab (Portunus sanguinolentus)

In this study, we determined the whole mitochondrial genome profile of the three-spot swimming crab (Portunus sanguinolentus) and elucidated phylogenetic relationships between representative species in the order Decapoda. The mitochondrial genome was 16,024 bp in length and consisted of 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, and a putative control region. Of the 37 genes, 23 were encoded by the heavy strand while 14 were encoded by the light strand. Four types of start codons were identified; ATG initiated nine genes, ATT initiated two genes, and ATC and GTG each started one gene. Nine protein-coding genes ended with a complete TAA or TAG stop codon, and four genes ended with an incomplete T or TA codon. Fourteen non-coding regions were found, which ranged from 1 to 34 bp in length. Nine overlaps were observed, with lengths between 1 and 7 bp. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that P. sanguinolentus is genetically closest to P. trituberculatus and P. pelagicus. Charybdis feriata, C. japonica, and Thalamita crenata formed a single cluster, and were close to the genera Callinectes and Portunus. Therefore, the genera Charybdis and Thalamita should be classified into the subfamily Portuninae.

Optimization of selective breeding through analysis of morphological traits in Chinese sea bass (Lateolabrax maculatus)

Determining correlations between certain traits of economic importance constitutes an essential component of selective activities. In this study, our aim was to provide effective indicators for breeding programs of Lateolabrax maculatus, an important aquaculture species in China. We analyzed correlations between 20 morphometric traits and body weight, using correlation and path analyses. The results indicated that the correlations among all 21 traits were highly significant, with the highest correlation coefficient identified between total length and body weight. The path analysis indicated that total length (X₁), body width (X₅), distance from first dorsal fin origin to anal fin origin (X₁₀), snout length (X₁₆), eye diameter (X₁₇), eye cross (X₁₈), and slanting distance from snout tip to first dorsal fin origin (X₁₉) significantly affected body weight (Y) directly. The following multiple-regression equation was obtained using stepwise multiple-regression analysis: Y = -472.108 + 1.065X₁ + 7.728X₅ + 1.973X₁₀ - 7.024X₁₆ - 4.400X₁₇ - 3.338X₁₈ + 2.138X₁₉, with an adjusted multiple-correlation coefficient of 0.947. Body width had the largest determinant coefficient, as well as the highest positive direct correlation with body weight. At the same time, high indirect effects with six other morphometric traits on L. maculatus body weight, through body width, were identified. Hence, body width could be a key factor that efficiently indicates significant effects on body weight in L. maculatus.

Characterization of the complete mitochondrial genome of Portunus pelagicus with implications for phylogenomics

This study determined the mitochondrial genome structure of the blue swimming crab (Portunus pelagicus), and elucidated its phylogenetic relationships among the species within the order Decapoda. The complete mitochondrial genome was 16,155 bp long, and contained 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes, and 1 DNA control region. The gene order of the genome was the same as that found within the family Portunidae. Twenty-three genes were on the heavy strand and 14 were on the light strand. Almost all of the protein-coding genes were initiated by an ATG codon, except for three genes (ATP6, ND1, and ND3) that started with a rare ATT codon. Of the 13 protein-coding genes, 10 ended with complete TAA or TAG stop codons and three ended with an incomplete T codon. Thirteen non-coding regions were identified that ranged from 1 to 30 bp in length. Nine overlaps were found, which ranged 1 to 7 bp in length. Phylogenetic analyses based on 12 concatenated protein-coding genes revealed that P. pelagicus formed a monophyletic group with Portunus trituberculatus, which were in a larger group with Callinectes sapidus, while the genera Charybdis and Thalamita formed another group. These two groups clustered together and grouped with the genus Scylla. The phylogenetic analysis supported the inclusion of Charybdis in subfamily Portuninae of the family Portunidae, and revealed a close relationship between Charybdis and Thalamita. We suggest that Thalamita should also be classified into the subfamily Portuninae. The results can be used in the study of phylogenetic, population genetic and conservation genetics of P. pelagicus.

[Advances in diagnosis and treatment of hepatopulmonary syndrome]

Hepatopulmonary syndrome is a disease with abnormal gas exchange caused by liver diseases, with the feature of abnormal oxygenation caused by intrapulmonary vasodilation. This article introduces the pathogenesis, natural course, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, and therapeutic measures of this disease and discusses potential therapeutic measures besides liver transplantation.

A rice LSD1-like-type ZFP gene OsLOL5 enhances saline-alkaline tolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana, yeast and rice

Background

Zinc finger proteins (ZFPs) play an important role in regulating plant responses to abiotic stress. However, little is known about the function of LSD1-like-type ZFP in saline-alkaline (SA) stress resistance of rice. In this study, OsLOL5 (GenBank No. AJ620677), containing two LSD1-like-type C2C2 domains, was isolated and analyzed its protection roles in transgenic plants and yeast. OsLOL5 was located in the nucleus as evidenced by the bombardment of onion epidermal cells.

Results

OsLOL5 expression significantly increased in rice leaves and roots under 150 mmol L-1 NaCl, 30 mM NaHCO₃, and 10 mmol L-1 H₂O₂ treatment, respectively. Overexpression of OsLOL5 in yeast resulted in SA tolerance at significant level. Transgenic Arabidopsis plants overexpressing OsLOL5 grew well in the presence ofboth NaCl and NaHCO₃ treatments, whereas wild-type plants exhibited chlorosis, stunted growth phenotype, and even death. SA stress caused significant changes in the malondialdehyde (MDA) contents in non-transgenic plants compared with those in transgenic lines. Transgenic rice overexpressing OsLOL5 exhibited stronger resistance than NT under NaHCO₃ treatment, as demonstrated by its greater shoot length, and fresh weight. The genes associated with oxidative stress, such as OsAPX2, OsCAT, OsCu/Zn-SOD, and OsRGRC2, were significantly upregulated in OsLOL5-overexpressing rice. The results suggested that OsLOL5 improved SA tolerance in plants, and regulated oxidative and salinity stress retardation via the active oxygen detoxification pathway.

Conclusions

The yeast INVScI bacterium grew significantly better than the control strain under NaCl, NaHCO₃, and H₂O₂ treatments. These findings illustrated that OsLOL5 overexpression enhanced yeast resistance for SA stress through active oxygen species. The present study showed that the OsLOL5 genes involved in the ROS signaling pathways may combine with the model plant Arabidopsis and rice in LDS1-type ZFP by ROS signaling pathways that regulate cell necrosis. We speculated that the OsLOL5 active oxygen scavenging system may have coordinating roles. The present study further revealed that OsLOL5 ZFP could regulate oxidative stress function, but could also provide a basis for salt-resistant rice strains.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-016-2460-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Advancement of highly charged ion beam production by superconducting ECR ion source SECRAL (invited)

At Institute of Modern Physics (IMP), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), the superconducting Electron Cyclotron Resonance (ECR) ion source SECRAL (Superconducting ECR ion source with Advanced design in Lanzhou) has been put into operation for about 10 years now. It has been the main working horse to deliver intense highly charged heavy ion beams for the accelerators. Since its first plasma at 18 GHz, R&D work towards more intense highly charged ion beam production as well as the beam quality investigation has never been stopped. When SECRAL was upgraded to its typical operation frequency 24 GHz, it had already showed its promising capacity of very intense highly charged ion beam production. And it has also provided the strong experimental support for the so called scaling laws of microwave frequency effect. However, compared to the microwave power heating efficiency at 18 GHz, 24 GHz microwave heating does not show the ω(2) scale at the same power level, which indicates that microwave power coupling at gyrotron frequency needs better understanding. In this paper, after a review of the operation status of SECRAL with regard to the beam availability and stability, the recent study of the extracted ion beam transverse coupling issues will be discussed, and the test results of the both TE01 and HE11 modes will be presented. A general comparison of the performance working with the two injection modes will be given, and a preliminary analysis will be introduced. The latest results of the production of very intense highly charged ion beams, such as 1.42 emA Ar(12+), 0.92 emA Xe(27+), and so on, will be presented.

Status of intense permanent magnet proton source for China-accelerator driven sub-critical system Linac

Two compact intense 2.45 GHz permanent magnet proton sources and their corresponding low energy beam transport (LEBT) system were developed successfully for China accelerator driven sub-critical system in 2014. Both the proton sources operate at 35 kV potential. The beams extracted from the ion source are transported by the LEBT, which is composed of two identical solenoids, to the 2.1 MeV Radio-Frequency Quadrupole (RFQ). In order to ensure the safety of the superconducting cavities during commissioning, an electrostatic-chopper has been designed and installed in the LEBT line that can chop the continuous wave beam into a pulsed one. The minimum width of the pulse is less than 10 μs and the fall/rise time of the chopper is about 20 ns. The performance of the proton source and the LEBT, such as beam current, beam profile, emittance and the impact to RFQ injection will be presented.

A Practical Anodic and Cathodic Curve Intersection Model to Understand Multiple Corrosion Potentials of Fe-Based Glassy Alloys in OH- Contained Solutions

A practical anodic and cathodic curve intersection model, which consisted of an apparent anodic curve and an imaginary cathodic line, was proposed to explain multiple corrosion potentials occurred in potentiodynamic polarization curves of Fe-based glassy alloys in alkaline solution. The apparent anodic curve was selected from the measured anodic curves. The imaginary cathodic line was obtained by linearly fitting the differences of anodic curves and can be moved evenly or rotated to predict the number and value of corrosion potentials.

The development of a room temperature electron cyclotron resonance ion source (Lanzhou electron cyclotron resonance ion source No. 4) with evaporative cooling technology at Institute of Modern Physics

LECR4 (Lanzhou electron cyclotron resonance ion source No. 4) has been successfully constructed at IMP and has also been connected with the Low Energy Beam Transport (LEBT) and Radio Frequency Quadrupole (RFQ) systems. These source magnet coils are cooled through evaporative cooling technology, which is the first attempt with an ECR ion source in the world. The maximum mirror field is 2.5 T (with iron plug) and the effective plasma chamber volume is 1.2 l. It was designed to be operated at 18 GHz and aimed to produce intense multiple charge state heavy ion beams for the linear injector project SSC-Linac at IMP. In February 2014, the first analyzed beam at 18 GHz was extracted. During about three months' commissioning, some outstanding results have been achieved, such as 1.97 emA of O(6+), 1.7 emA of Ar(8+), 1.07 emA of Ar(9+), and 118 euA of Bi(28+). The source has also successfully delivered O(5+) and Ar(8+) ion beams for RFQ commissioning in April 2014. This paper will give a brief overview of the design of LECR4. Then, the latest results of this source at 18 GHz will be presented.

Mechanistic insight into the aerobic oxidation of benzyl alcohol catalyzed by the CuII–TEMPO catalyst in alkaline water solution

The benzyl alcohol oxidation to benzaldehyde in the alkaline water solution catalyzed by Cu^II/L–TEMPO catalyst is investigated by density functional method. The favorable mechanisms and the role for the water ​have also been predicted.

Characteristics of growth traits and their effects on body weight of G₁ individuals in the mud crab (Scylla paramamosain)

The mud crab (Scylla paramamosain) is considered a potentially important marine crab species for selective breeding. Here, we first examined sex ratio and differences in 16 growth traits between females and males in a G1 population of S. paramamosain, and we then analyzed the correlation between these growth traits and their effects on body weight (BW). Of these growth traits, nine were significantly different between sexes. In females, the correlation coefficients in all trait pairs ranged from 0.524 to 0.997. The traits carapace length (CL) and distance between lateral spine 2 (DLS2) significantly affected BW directly, with the path coefficients being 1.124 and -0.186, respectively. The determination coefficients of traits CL and DLS2 to BW were 1.263 and 0.035 with the total value being 0.951, indicating that the two traits were the key factors affecting BW. In males, the correlation coefficients in all trait pairs ranged from 0.881 to 0.999. The three traits body height (BH), fixed finger height of the claw (FFHC), and meropodite length of pereopod 2 (MLP2) significantly affected BW directly, with the path coefficients being 0.484, 0.300, and 0.225, respectively. The determination coefficients of traits BH, FFHC and MLP2 to BW were 0.234, 0.090 and 0.051, with the total value being 0.967, indicating that these three traits played a key role in affecting BW. Moreover, we constructed two best-fit linear regression equations, which were Y (BW) = 4.969 X1 (CL) - 0.758 X2 (DLS2) - 140.177 and Y (BW) = 3.806 X1 (BH) + 2.371 X2 (FFHC) + 1.725 X3 (MLP2) - 123.559 in females and males, respectively.

A 2.45 GHz intense proton source and low energy beam transport system for China Initiative Accelerator Driven Sub-Critical reactor system

At Institute of Modern Physics, a cw 35 keV, 20 mA intense proton source and the low energy beam transport system (LEBT) have been developed for China Initiative Accelerator Driven Sub-Critical reactor system. In order to ensure high quality transmission of the intense ion beam from the exit of ion source to Radio Frequency Quadrupole (RFQ), a low energy beam transport line is used to focus beam to the RFQ entrance and match the Twiss parameters to the RFQ requirements. The 35 keV, 20 mA ion beam extracted by a three-electrode extraction system from the ion source passes through the LEBT to the RFQ entrance and the root-mean-square emittance is measured to be less than 0.2 π mm mrad. The commissioning results of the ion source and low energy beam transport system are described in this paper. The beam quality and transmission efficiency are also studied.

A low energy beam transport system for proton beam

A low energy beam transport (LEBT) system has been built for a compact pulsed hadron source (CPHS) at Tsinghua University in China. The LEBT, consisting of two solenoids and three short-drift sections, transports a pulsed proton beam of 60 mA of energy of 50 keV to the entrance of a radio frequency quadrupole (RFQ). Measurement has shown a normalized RMS beam emittance less than 0.2 π mm mrad at the end of the LEBT. Beam simulations were carried out to compare with the measurement and are in good agreement. Based on the successful CPHS LEBT development, a new LEBT for a China ADS projector has been designed. The features of the new design, including a beam chopper and beam simulations of the LEBT are presented and discussed along with CPHS LEBT development in this article.

Development of DRAGON electron cyclotron resonance ion source at Institute of Modern Physics

A new room temperature electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) ion source, DRAGON, is under construction at IMP. DRAGON is designed to operate at microwaves of frequencies of 14.5-18 GHz. Its axial solenoid coils are cooled with evaporative medium to provide an axial magnetic mirror field of 2.5 T at the injection and 1.4 T at the extraction, respectively. In comparison to other conventional room temperature ECR ion sources, DRAGON has so far the largest bore plasma chamber of inner diameter of 126 mm with maximum radial fields of 1.4-1.5 T produced by a non-Halbach permanent sextupole magnet.

Status of the laser ion source at IMP

A laser (Nd:YAG laser, 3 J, 1064 nm, 8-10 ns) ion source has been built and under development at IMP to provide pulsed high-charge-state heavy ion beams to a radio frequency quadrupole (RFQ) for upgrading the IMP accelerators with a new low-energy beam injector. The laser ion source currently operates in a direct plasma injection scheme to inject the high charge state ions produced from a solid target into the RFQ. The maximum power density on the target was about 8.4 × 10(12) W∕cm(2). The preliminary experimental results will be presented and discussed in this paper.

A 2.45 GHz electron cyclotron resonance proton ion source and a dual-lens low energy beam transport

The structure and preliminary commissioning results of a new 2.45 GHz ECR proton ion source and a dual-lens low energy beam transport (LEBT) system are presented in this paper. The main magnetic field of the ion source is provided by a set of permanent magnets with two small electro-solenoid magnets at the injection and the extraction to fine tune the magnetic field for better microwave coupling. A 50 keV pulsed proton beam extracted by a three-electrode mechanism passes through the LEBT system of length of 1183 mm. This LEBT consists of a diagnosis chamber, two Glaser lenses, two steering magnets, and a final beam defining cone. A set of inner permanent magnetic rings is embedded in each of the two Glaser lenses to produce a flatter axial-field to reduce the lens aberrations.

Study of ion beam transport from the SECRAL electron cyclotron resonance ion source at the Institute of Modern Physics

Ion beam transport from the Superconducting Electron Cyclotron Resonance ion source with Advanced design in Lanzhou (SECRAL) electron cyclotron resonance ion source was studied at the Institute of Modern Physics during 2010. Particle-in-cell simulations and experimental results have shown that both space charge and magnetic aberrations lead to a larger beam envelope and emittance growth. In the existing SECRAL extraction beam line, it has been shown that raising the solenoid lens magnetic field reduces aberrations in the subsequent dipole and results in lower emittance. Detailed beam emittance measurements are presented in this paper.

Development and testing of 13 polymorphic microsatellite markers in Larimichthys polyactis (Sciaenidae) using 5' anchored PCR

Larimichthys polyactis is a commercially important marine fish species in southeast Asia. The population crashed due to overfishing in the 1970s, but has since recovered. We developed 13 novel polymorphic microsatellite markers in L. polyactis using 5' anchored PCR. The characteristics of these loci were estimated by analyzing a sample of 30 individuals. A total of 74 alleles were detected, with a mean of 5.7 alleles per locus. There were 2 to 12 alleles, 0.2760 to 0.8247 polymorphism information content, and 0.3214 to 1.000 observed and 0.3097 to 0.8567 expected heterozygosity per locus. The mean observed and expected heterozygosity was 0.6816 and 0.6724, respectively. Three loci deviated significantly from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium after Bonferroni's correction, and no significant linkage disequilibrum between pairs of loci was found. This information will be useful for the analysis of population genetic diversity, and the management of this important fish resource.

New development of advanced superconducting electron cyclotron resonance ion source SECRAL (invited)

Superconducting electron cyclotron resonance ion source with advance design in Lanzhou (SECRAL) is an 18-28 GHz fully superconducting electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) ion source dedicated for highly charged heavy ion beam production. SECRAL, with an innovative superconducting magnet structure of solenoid-inside-sextupole and at lower frequency and lower rf power operation, may open a new way for developing compact and reliable high performance superconducting ECR ion source. One of the recent highlights achieved at SECRAL is that some new record beam currents for very high charge states were produced by 18 GHz or 18+14.5 GHz double frequency heating, such as 1 e microA of (129)Xe(43+), 22 e microA of (209)Bi(41+), and 1.5 e microA of (209)Bi(50+). To further enhance the performance of SECRAL, a 24 GHz/7 kW gyrotron microwave generator was installed and SECRAL was tested at 24 GHz. Some promising and exciting results at 24 GHz with new record highly charged ion beam intensities were produced, such as 455 e microA of (129)Xe(27+) and 152 e microA of (129)Xe(30+), although the commissioning time was limited within 3-4 weeks and rf power only 3-4 kW. Bremsstrahlung measurements at 24 GHz show that x-ray is much stronger with higher rf frequency, higher rf power. and higher minimum mirror magnetic field (minimum B). Preliminary emittance measurements indicate that SECRAL emittance at 24 GHz is slightly higher that at 18 GHz. SECRAL has been put into routine operation at 18 GHz for heavy ion research facility in Lanzhou (HIRFL) accelerator complex since May 2007. The total operation beam time from SECRAL for HIRFL accelerator has been more than 2000 h, and (129)Xe(27+), (78)Kr(19+), (209)Bi(31+), and (58)Ni(19+) beams were delivered. All of these new developments, the latest results, and long-term operation for the accelerator have again demonstrated that SECRAL is one of the best in the performance of ECR ion source for highly charged heavy ion beam production. Finally the future development of SECRAL will be presented.

Production of highly charged ion beams with SECRAL

Superconducting electron cyclotron resonance ion source with advanced design in Lanzhou (SECRAL) is an all-superconducting-magnet electron cyclotron resonance ion source (ECRIS) for the production of intense highly charged ion beams to meet the requirements of the Heavy Ion Research Facility in Lanzhou (HIRFL). To further enhance the performance of SECRAL, an aluminum chamber has been installed inside a 1.5 mm thick Ta liner used for the reduction of x-ray irradiation at the high voltage insulator. With double-frequency (18+14.5 GHz) heating and at maximum total microwave power of 2.0 kW, SECRAL has successfully produced quite a few very highly charged Xe ion beams, such as 10 e microA of Xe(37+), 1 e microA of Xe(43+), and 0.16 e microA of Ne-like Xe(44+). To further explore the capability of the SECRAL in the production of highly charged heavy metal ion beams, a first test run on bismuth has been carried out recently. The main goal is to produce an intense Bi(31+) beam for HIRFL accelerator and to have a feel how well the SECRAL can do in the production of very highly charged Bi beams. During the test, though at microwave power less than 3 kW, more than 150 e microA of Bi(31+), 22 e microA of Bi(41+), and 1.5 e microA of Bi(50+) have been produced. All of these results have again demonstrated the great capability of the SECRAL source. This article will present the detailed results and brief discussions to the production of highly charged ion beams with SECRAL.

Neoadjuvant therapy of gastric cancer with cetuximab added to both irinotecan and cisplatin, followed by surgical resection and adjuvant chemoradiation

e15552

Background: We previously demonstrated the efficacy of irinotecan (CPT) and cisplatin (Cis) combination therapy as neoadjuvant therapy for locally advanced gastric cancer [Newman E et al. J Gastrointest Surg. 2002.]. This trial was designed to add cetuximab (C) to both induction treatment and adjuvant chemoradiation (CRT) with bolus 5-FU/LV. Methods: Pts with untreated locally advanced (T3, T4 or N+) gastric/GE cancers were eligible. Neoadjuvant therapy consisted of Cis 25mg/m2 + CPT 75mg/m2 on d1,8 q21d x 4, C 400mg/m2 on d1, then 250mg/m2 qwk. Curative (R0) resection was performed 4–6 wks later. Adjuvant CRT with 5-FU/LV (425/20/m2 qd x 5 on wks 1,14,19; 400/20/m2 qd x 4 on wk 5, x 3 on wk 9) was given with C 250mg/m2 qwk. Results: Since 11/05, 21 pts [median age 59 (32–82); 9 Caucasian, 11 Asian, 1 Hispanic; 15 male, 20 PS 0–1] received neoadjuvant therapy. The most common toxicities were gr 3 neutropenia (38%), gr 2 rash (33%), gr 2 fatigue (29%); gr 4 included 1 pt each of diarrhea, neutropenia, & hypomagnesemia. 3 did not complete neoadjuvant therapy, due to gr 3 rash, diarrhea and GI bleeding (2 had gastrectomy; 1 lost to f/u). All 18 pts who completed neoadjuvant therapy were surgically explored. 4 had occult metastases, and went off study. 14 underwent R0 gastrectomy (see table); 8 were downstaged, 2 had stable disease, 4 were upstaged compared to the preoperative EUS. There was no postoperative mortality. Of 14 resected pts, 2 did not receive adjuvant therapy (prolonged postoperative recovery), 1 too early to assess, and 11 remaining receiving CRT. The most common toxicities for CRT were gr 3 nausea, gr 3 emesis, gr 2 and 3 fatigue, 3 pts each and 1 each of gr 4 neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. Among the 18 pts who completed neoadjuvant therapy, 5 died of disease, 1 is alive with disease, 12 remain NED with median f/u of 11.6mos (4.1–27.7mos). Conclusions: The addition of C to CPT/Cis as neoadjuvant therapy and to postoperative adjuvant CRT is well tolerated. The regimen induces a favorable pathologic response on the primary tumor. Ongoing evaluation includes K-ras mutation status on outcome and survival benefit. [Supported in part by a grant from BMS.]

[Table: see text]

Non-invasive and quantitative near-infrared haemoglobin spectrometry in the piglet brain during hypoxic stress, using a frequency-domain multidistance instrument

The frequency-domain multiple-distance (FDMD) method is capable of measuring the absolute absorption and reduced scattering coefficients of optically turbid media. Absolute measurement of absorption at two near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths makes possible the quantitation of tissue haemoglobin concentration and tissue haemoglobin oxygen-saturation (StO2). However, errors are introduced by the uncertainties of background absorption and the dissimilarities between real tissues and the simplified mathematical model on which these measurements are based. An FDMD-based tissue instrument has been used for the monitoring of tissue haemoglobin concentration and oxygenation in the brain of newborn piglets during periods of hypoxia and hyperoxia. These tissue haemoglobin saturation values were compared with arterial saturation (SaO2) and venous saturation (SvO2) measured by blood gas analyses. A linear correlation was observed between StO2 and the average of SaO2 and SvO2. However, StO2 is not equal to any fixed weighted average of SaO2 and SvO2 unless we introduce an effective background tissue absorption. The magnitude of the background absorption was about 0.08 cm(-1) at 758 nm and 0.06 cm(-1) at 830 nm, and it was nearly consistent between piglets. The origin of this 'effective' background absorption may be real, an artefact caused by the application of a simplified model to a complex sample, or a combination of factors.

Pulmonary function changes and increased Th-2 cytokine expression and nuclear factor kB activation in the lung after sensitization and allergen challenge in brown Norway rats

BACKGROUND

Our purpose was to evaluate the expression of Th-1 and Th-2 related cytokine mRNA and nuclear factor (NF) kB in the lung tissue of ovalbumin (OA) sensitized brown Norway rats (BNR). We also evaluated the correlation between bronchial hyperreactivity (BHR) and eosinophils with cytokine mRNA expression.

METHODS

Eight BNR (weight range 250-350 g) were sensitized by inhaled OA (group I) with a 1-week interval between and then provoked with OA 1 week later. Pulmonary function tests (PFT) were performed at baseline and 24 h after acetylcholine challenge. Eight weight-matched normal BNR served as controls (group II). All animals were anesthetized, paralyzed with gallamine, and ventilated via tracheostomy. They were given varying doses of acetylcholine (25, 50, 75, 100 microg/kg) injected through a jugular venous catheter. Five seconds after acetylcholine injections, PFTs were performed, including a maximal forced expiratory maneuver (MFEM), airway opening pressure (P(ao)) at tidal breathing and total dynamic lung compliance (C(dyn)). Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was then performed with 20 ml normal saline divided into two doses. Thereafter, the lungs were removed and examined histologically. Total RNA was extracted from lung tissue samples and reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction was performed using primers for mRNA of IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, interferon-gamma (IFNr) and beta-actine.

RESULTS

Group I OA treated rats had typical airway obstruction on PFTs and airway inflammation on histological examination. Ratios of IL-4, IL-5, IL-10 and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) mRNA levels to beta-actine as measured by densitometry were significantly lower in controls than in OA-sensitized rats. The IFNr mRNA to beta-actin ratio was significantly reduced in OA-sensitized rats. Group I demonstrated a band shift when compared with group II in electromobility shift assay (EMSA) for NF-kB indicating increased activation of this transcription factor.

CONCLUSION

Th-2 related cytokine mRNA was increased but Th-1 related cytokine mRNA was decreased in OA-sensitized BNR. An increased level of Th-2 related cytokine mRNA correlated with decreased airflow and inflammatory changes. These results demonstrate the value of the BNR model for studying allergic asthma at the molecular level.

Postnatal exposure to chlorinated dioxins and related chemicals on lymphocyte subsets in Japanese breast-fed infants

Effects of postnatal exposure to polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and coplanar polychlorinated biphenyls (Co-PCBs) on lymphocyte subpopulations were investigated in the peripheral blood of 36 breast-fed Japanese babies. As a result, estimated total intakes of these chemicals in toxic equivalent quantity (TEQ) converted into 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD) equivalents from the breast milk positively and negatively correlated with the respective percentages of CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes in the blood of breast-fed babies. Consequently, the ratios of CD4+ to CD8+ T cells showed significant increasing tendency with the estimated total TEQ intakes. Therefore, our study suggests that exposure to background levels of the highly toxic organochlorine compounds through the breast milk influences the human neonatal immune system.

Postnatal exposure to chlorinated dioxins and related chemicals on thyroid hormone status in Japanese breast-fed infants

Effects of postnatal exposure to polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and coplanar polychlorinated biphenyls (Co-PCBs) on thyroid hormone status were studied in the peripheral blood of 36 breast-fed Japanese infants. Estimated total intakes of these chemicals in toxic equivalent quantity (TEQ) converted into 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD) from the breast milk significantly and negatively correlated with the levels of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) in the blood of breast-fed babies. Therefore, exposure to background levels of the highly toxic organochlorine chemicals through the breast milk may cause some effects on thyroid hormone status in Japanese infants.