In vivo genome editing via CRISPR/Cas9-mediated homology-independent targeted integration for Bietti crystalline corneoretinal dystrophy treatment

Bietti crystalline corneoretinal dystrophy (BCD) is an autosomal recessive chorioretinal degenerative disease without approved therapeutic drugs. It is caused by mutations in CYP4V2 gene, and about 80% of BCD patients carry mutations in exon 7 to 11. Here, we apply CRISPR/Cas9 mediated homology-independent targeted integration (HITI)-based gene editing therapy in HEK293T cells, BCD patient derived iPSCs, and humanized Cyp4v3 mouse model (h-Cyp4v3mut/mut) using two rAAV2/8 vectors via sub-retinal administration. We find that sgRNA-guided Cas9 generates double-strand cleavage on intron 6 of the CYP4V2 gene, and the HITI donor inserts the carried sequence, part of intron 6, exon 7-11, and a stop codon into the DNA break, achieving precise integration, effective transcription and translation both in vitro and in vivo. HITI-based editing restores the viability of iPSC-RPE cells from BCD patient, improves the morphology, number and metabolism of RPE and photoreceptors in h-Cyp4v3mut/mut mice. These results suggest that HITI-based editing could be a promising therapeutic strategy for those BCD patients carrying mutations in exon 7 to 11, and one injection will achieve lifelong effectiveness.

Change of termite hindgut metabolome and bacteria after captivity indicates the hindgut microbiota provides nutritional factors to the host

The gut-dwelling microbiota is an indispensable part of termites. It is influenced by a series of factors, such as diet and captivity. The objectives of this study were to study the metabolic functions of hindgut microbiota and to investigate the influence of captivity on the hindgut microbiota. The dampwood termite Hodotermopsis sjostedti was reared in the laboratory for 6 months. We conducted the metabolome analysis of the fat body from the freshly-collected workers (FBF), the hindgut fluid of the freshly-collected workers (HFF), and the hindgut fluid of laboratory-maintained workers. In addition, the 16S rRNA genes from the hindgut bacteria in the freshly-collected and laboratory-maintained workers were sequenced. According to our results, the concentrations of metabolites associated with amino acid biosynthesis, vitamin biosynthesis, fatty acid biosynthesis, and cofactor biosynthesis were higher in HFF compared with those in FBF, suggesting that the hindgut microbiota provides nutritional factors to the host. However, after captivity, the concentrations of metabolites in the hindgut associated with amino acid biosynthesis, nucleotide sugar metabolism, vitamin biosynthesis, and carbon metabolism decreased, while those associated with the steroid hormone biosynthesis and ovarian steroidogenesis increased. Meanwhile, the 16S amplicon study revealed that the abundance of certain bacteria changed after captivity, such as uncultured Termite Group 1 bacterium, Candidatus Symbiothrix dinenymphae, and unclassified Desulfovibrio. Our findings show that captivity influences the hindgut microbiota and shed light on the metabolic potential of the hindgut microbiota.

Interpretable Detection of Diabetic Retinopathy, Retinal Vein Occlusion, Age-Related Macular Degeneration, and Other Fundus Conditions

Diabetic retinopathy (DR), retinal vein occlusion (RVO), and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) pose significant global health challenges, often resulting in vision impairment and blindness. Automatic detection of these conditions is crucial, particularly in underserved rural areas with limited access to ophthalmic services. Despite remarkable advancements in artificial intelligence, especially convolutional neural networks (CNNs), their complexity can make interpretation difficult. In this study, we curated a dataset consisting of 15,089 color fundus photographs (CFPs) obtained from 8110 patients who underwent fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) examination. The primary objective was to construct integrated models that merge CNNs with an attention mechanism. These models were designed for a hierarchical multilabel classification task, focusing on the detection of DR, RVO, AMD, and other fundus conditions. Furthermore, our approach extended to the detailed classification of DR, RVO, and AMD according to their respective subclasses. We employed a methodology that entails the translation of diagnostic information obtained from FFA results into CFPs. Our investigation focused on evaluating the models' ability to achieve precise diagnoses solely based on CFPs. Remarkably, our models showcased improvements across diverse fundus conditions, with the ConvNeXt-base + attention model standing out for its exceptional performance. The ConvNeXt-base + attention model achieved remarkable metrics, including an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.943, a referable F1 score of 0.870, and a Cohen's kappa of 0.778 for DR detection. For RVO, it attained an AUC of 0.960, a referable F1 score of 0.854, and a Cohen's kappa of 0.819. Furthermore, in AMD detection, the model achieved an AUC of 0.959, an F1 score of 0.727, and a Cohen's kappa of 0.686. Impressively, the model demonstrated proficiency in subclassifying RVO and AMD, showcasing commendable sensitivity and specificity. Moreover, our models enhanced interpretability by visualizing attention weights on fundus images, aiding in the identification of disease findings. These outcomes underscore the substantial impact of our models in advancing the detection of DR, RVO, and AMD, offering the potential for improved patient outcomes and positively influencing the healthcare landscape.

The complete mitochondrial genome of the red-footed tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonarius Spix 1824)

In this study, we report the complete mitochondrial genome of the red-footed tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonarius). The compete mitochondrial genome of C. carbonarius is 16,639 bp in length, including 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, and two rRNA genes. The mitogenome was deposited in NCBI GenBank under the accession number OQ789392. Furthermore, we also constructed a phylogenetic tree of Chelonoidis using eight species. These results will aid the conservation of Chelonoidis from the perspective of genetic evolution.

Predictive value of ellipsoid zone-related angle parameters in primary surgery of large macular hole: a case control study

BACKGROUND

To explore the predictive value of Ellipsoid Zone (EZ) -related angle parameters for the outcome of primary macular hole surgery.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study. Patients diagnosed with large macular hole (MH) (minimum diameter > 500 μm) between 2018 and 2021 were enrolled. All patients underwent 25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy, internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling and air tamponade. Spectral-domain OCT (SD-OCT) and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were measured in preoperative and 2-week post-operative. Classic and angle related parameters were measured via ImageJ. Angle regularity (AR) were defined as the standard deviation of the angle parameters in vertical and horizontal direction.

RESULTS

Seventy-six eyes were included for analysis; 24 eyes showed an unclosed macular hole at the 2-week postoperative and 52 eyes showed a closed hole. Preoperatively, MLD (P < 0.001), BD (P = 0.009) and diameter of EZ/ELM disruption (P = 0.002 and 0.025) in patients failed to close the hole after primary surgery were significantly larger than those succeeded. EZ-MH (P = 0.018), EZ-NFL (P = 0.006), EZ-GCL (P = 0.004), EZ-INL (P = 0.002), EZ-OPL (P = 0.009) and EZ-ONL (P = 0.011) angles were smaller in patients with unclosed hole. AR of the EZ-NFL (P = 0.009), EZ-GCL (P = 0.009), EZ-OPL (P = 0.023), EZ-ONL (P = 0.048) and Basal-NFL (P = 0.030) angles among the unclosed patients were significantly larger than those of the closed group. EZ-NFL (P = 0.015), EZ-GCL (P = 0.004), EZ-INL (P < 0.001), EZ-OPL (P < 0.001), EZ-ONL (P < 0.001), Basal (P = 0.023) and Basal-NFL (P < 0.001) angles of hole-unclosed patients enlarged significantly after the surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with large macular holes and an increased EZ-related angle and angle AR are more likely to experience unsuccessful outcomes following primary MH surgery. Therefore, EZ-related angles hold potential as valuable parameters for predicting the surgical outcome.

Multimodal Imaging of Choroidal Structural in Torpedo Maculopathy

Objective

To report a case of torpedo maculopathy with multimodal fundus imaging methods, and apply the choroid vascularity index to quantitatively describe the choroidal structural changes in torpedo maculopathy.

Case presentation

An asymptomatic 41-year-old Chinese woman with an incidentally found yellowish-white macular lesion in her left eye was referred to our hospital. She was unaware of any prior medical conditions. The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 20/20 OD and 20/25 OS, respectively. Fundus exam of her left eye revealed a well-circumscribed torpedo-like hypopigmented lesion in the macula region, and the tapered edge directed toward the fovea. Pigment deposition could be seen in the inferotemporal portion of the torpedo lesion. Fluorescein angiography showed the corresponding window defect without leakage and fundus autofluorescence demonstrated low signal throughout the lesion. Enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography revealed outer retinal attenuation, subretinal cavitation, subtle inner choroidal excavation and thinning of outer nuclear layer. The diagnosis of torpedo maculopathy was clinically made. Choroidal vascularity index (CVI) and sub-foveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) were applied to display changes of choroidal structure. The results implied that both subfoveal CVI and SFCT of the affected eye seemed relatively lower when compared with the fellow eye. Optical coherence tomography angiography showed reduced density of the choriocapillaris in the temporal area of the lesion and increased capillary density in the nasal area. Functional examinations, including microperimetry, multifocal electroretinogram and static perimetry also revealed reduced retinal sensitivity, decreased stimulated amplitude and suspected scotoma in the lesion area. After 12 months of follow-up, the patient's visual acuity and the clinical appearance of the lesion were unchanged.

Conclusion

The torpedo maculopathy may be identified by abnormal appearance with multimodal imaging. Decreased choroidal vascularity in the lesion area measured quantitatively by choroid vascularity index may play a role in pathogenesis of torpedo maculopathy.

Local chronicles reveal the effect of anthropogenic and climatic impacts on local extinctions of Chinese pangolins (Manis pentadactyla) in mainland China

Anthropogenic and climatic factors affect the survival of animal species. Chinese pangolin is a critically endangered species, and identifying which variables lead to local extinction events is essential for conservation management. Local chronicles in China serve as long‐term monitoring data, providing a perspective to disentangle the roles of human impacts and climate changes in local extinctions. Therefore, we established generalized additive models to identify factors leading to local extinction with historical data from 1700–2000 AD in mainland China. Then we decreased the time scale and constructed extinction risk models using MaxEnt in a 30‐year transect (1970–2000 AD) to further assess extinction probability of extant Chinese pangolin populations. Lastly, we used principal component analysis to assess variation of related anthropogenic and climatic variables. Our results showed that the extinction probability increased with global warming and human population growth. An extinction risk assessment indicated that the population and distribution range of Chinese pangolins had been persistently shrinking in response to highly intensive human activities (main cause) and climate change. PCA results indicated that variability of climatic variables is greater than anthropogenic variables. Overall, the factors causing local extinctions are intensive human interference and drastic climatic fluctuations which induced by the effect of global warming. Approximately 28.10% of extant Chinese pangolins populations are confronted with a notable extinction risk (0.37 ≤ extinction probability≤0.93), specifically those in Southeast China, including Guangdong, Jiangxi, Zhejiang, Hunan and Fujian Provinces. To rescue this critically endangered species, we suggest strengthening field investigations, identifying the exact distribution range and population density of Chinese pangolins and further optimizing the network of nature reserves to improve conservation coverage on the landscape scale and alleviate human interference. Conservation practices that concentrate on the viability assessment of scattered populations could help to improve restoration strategies of the Chinese pangolin.

Influence of Pleistocene climate fluctuations on the demographic history and distribution of the critically endangered Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla)

Background

Pleistocene climate fluctuations have strongly modified species genetic diversity and distributions. The Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) has been recognized as a critically endangered animal due to heavy poaching and trafficking. However, the effect of Pleistocene climate fluctuations on the genetic diversity and spatial distribution of the Chinese pangolin remains largely unknown. Here, we combined whole genome sequencing data, analysis of complete mitochondrial genomes, and a large amount of occurrence data from field surveys to infer the ancestral demographic history and predict the past spatial dynamics of the Chinese pangolin in Guangdong Province, China.

Results

Our results indicated that there were two subpopulations, which showed similar trends of population size change in response to past climatic changes. We estimated a peak effective population size (Ne) during the last interglacial (LIG), followed by a marked decrease (~ 0.5 to fivefold change) until the last glacial maximum (LGM) and a rebound to a small peak population size during the Mid-Holocene (MH). The estimated time of the separation event between two subpopulations was approximately 3,000–2,500 years ago (ka). We estimated that the distribution of suitable areas shrank by 14.4% from the LIG to LGM, followed by an expansion of 31.4% from the LGM to MH and has been stable since then. In addition, we identified an elevational shift and suitable area decreased significantly during the LGM, but that the geographic extent of suitable areas in the western region increased from the LIG to present. The eastern region of Guangdong Province had the highest habitat suitability across all the climate scenarios.

Conclusions

Our results suggested that Pleistocene climate fluctuations played an important role in shaping patterns of genetic diversity and spatial distribution, and that human stressors likely contributed to the recent divergence of two Chinese pangolin subpopulations sampled here. We argue that a key protected area should be established in the eastern region of Guangdong Province. As such, this study provides a more thorough understanding of the impacts of Pleistocene climate fluctuations impacts on a mammalian species in southern China and suggests more robust management and conservation plans for this Critically Endangered species of special interest.

Effects of spatially heterogeneous warming on gut microbiota, nutrition and gene flow of a heat-sensitive ungulate population

Effects of climate warming on trophic cascades are increasingly reported for large herbivores occupying northern latitudes. During the last 40 years, moose (Alces alces) in northeast China have lost nearly half of their historical distribution through their habitat shifting northwards. There are many possible causes of bottom-up and top-down effects of temperature and for moose in northeast China they are poorly understood. Of particular relevance are the effects of extrinsic environmental factors on gene flow, nutritional adaptions, and gut microbiota that occur as moose populations retreat northwards. We combined molecular biology, nutritional ecology and metagenomics to gain deeper mechanistic insights into the effects of temperature on moose populations. In this study, we revealed that the direction and intensity of gene flow is consistent with global warming driving retreats of moose populations. We interpret this as evidence for the northward movement of moose populations, with cooler northern populations receiving more immigrants and warmer southern populations supplying emigrants. Comparison across latitudes showed that warmer late spring temperatures were associated with plant community composition and facilitated related changes in moose protein and carbohydrate intake through altering forage availability, forage quality and diet composition. Furthermore, these nutrient shifts were accompanied by changes in gut microbial composition and functional pathways related to nutrient metabolism. This study provided insights into mechanisms driving effects of spatial heterogeneous warming on genetic, nutritional and physiological adaptions related to key demographic rates and patterns of survival of heat-sensitive ungulates along a latitude gradient. Understanding such changes helps to identify key habitat areas and plant species to ensure accurate assessment of population status and targeted management of moose populations.

Social exclusion influences conditioned fear acquisition and generalization: A mediating effect from the medial prefrontal cortex

Fear acquisition and generalization play key roles in promoting the survival of mammals and contribute to anxiety disorders. While previous research has provided much evidence for the repercussions of social exclusion on mental health, how social exclusion affects fear acquisition and generalization has received scant attention. In our study, participants were divided into two groups according to two Cyberball paradigm conditions (exclusion/inclusion). Both groups underwent a Pavlovian conditioning paradigm, functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), and skin conductance response (SCR) assessments. We aimed to determine the effects of social exclusion on fear acquisition and generalization and whether modulation of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) mediates this relationship. Our results showed that socially excluded participants featured significantly higher and lower shock risk scores to safety stimuli (conditioned stimulus, CS-) and threatening stimuli (CS+), respectively, than did socially included subjects during fear acquisition. The exclusion group had increased skin conductance responses (SCRs) to CS and exhibited heightened shock risk and increased SCRs to generalized stimuli compared with the inclusion group. The fNIRS results demonstrated that the CS ​+ ​evoked larger oxy-Hb changes in the mPFC in the inclusion group than in the exclusion group during fear acquisition. Furthermore, the oxy-Hb of left mPFC of CS ​+ ​mediated the effect on the association between social exclusion and perceived risk of CS+ in the fear acquisition. Our results indicate that social exclusion impairs fear acquisition and generalization via the mediation of the mPFC and that social exclusion increases susceptibility to anxiety disorders through bias processing of fear discrimination in fear acquisition and generalization. By studying the role of social relationship in fear acquisition and generalization, our research provides new insights into the pathological mechanisms of anxiety disorder.

Macro-Nutritional Adaptive Strategies of Moose (Alces alces) Related to Population Density

The distribution area of moose in China has been shrinking back toward the north and northeast because of climate change and human disturbance, and the population number has been declining. Between 2011 and 2015, we studied moose at six sites in the northeast of China during the snowy seasons. We collected fecal samples and plant samples that were used to estimate population densities for moose, as well as their macro-nutrient selection. Out of a total of 257 fecal samples collected at six sites, we identified a total of 120 individual moose (57 females and 63 males). The population density (moose/km² ± SE) was highest at Hanma with 0.305 ± 0.064 moose/km² and lowest at Meitian with only 0.028 ± 0.013 moose/km². Forage availability was different among sites, with the lowest availability at Mohe (58.17 number/20 m²) and highest was Zhanhe (250.44 number/20 m²). Moose at Zhanhe, Hanma, and Nanwenghe had a balanced diet with higher N:C (1:7), while at Meitian, Shuanghe and Mohe the N:C was 1:8. Our results indicate that the southern areas had low forage quality and quantity and this may be the reason for the distribution of the population of moose shrinking northward.

Comparative analysis of the blood transcriptomes between wolves and dogs

Dogs were domesticated by human and originated from wolves. Their evolutionary relationships have attracted much scientific interest due to their genetic affinity but different habitats. To identify the differences between dogs and wolves associated with domestication, we analysed the blood transcriptomes of wolves and dogs by RNA-Seq. We obtained a total of 30.87 Gb of raw reads from two dogs and three wolves using RNA-Seq technology. Comparisons of the wolf and dog transcriptomes revealed 524 genes differentially expressed genes between them. We found that some genes related to immune function (DCK, ICAM4, GAPDH and BSG) and aerobic capacity (HBA1, HBA2 and HBB) were more highly expressed in the wolf. Six differentially expressed genes related to the innate immune response (CCL23, TRIM10, DUSP10, RAB27A, CLEC5A and GCH1) were found in the wolf by a Gene Ontology enrichment analysis. Immune system development was also enriched only in the wolf group. The ALAS2, HMBS and FECH genes, shown to be enriched by the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis, were associated with the higher aerobic capacity and hypoxia endurance of the wolf. The results suggest that the wolf might have greater resistance to pathogens, hypoxia endurance and aerobic capacity than dogs do.

Comparison of the safety and efficacy of triple sequential therapy and transscleral cyclophotocoagulation for neovascular glaucoma in the angle-closure stage

To compare the efficacy and safety of triple therapy combining intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor, trabeculectomy, and pan-retinal photocoagulation via binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy, with that of transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (TCP) to treat neovascular glaucoma in the angle-closure stage. Eighteen triple therapy patients and 25 TCP patients between May 2014 and May 2016 were retrospectively analysed. Anterior chamber puncture and anti-VEGF intravitreal injection were performed on the first day of sequential therapy. Trabeculectomy was performed 3–5 d after injection; pan-retinal laser photocoagulation via binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy was initiated 5–7 d later. The IOP of the triple therapy group was lower than that of the TCP group (15.2 ± 2.2 vs. 20.0 ± 8.5 mmHg) and fewer anti-glaucoma drugs were used (0.5 ± 1.0 vs. 0.6 ± 1.0) after treatment. The success rates of the two groups were 89% and 60% respectively (P = 0.032). The visual function of 94% of triple therapy patients was preserved or improved compared to 64% of TCP patients with statistical significance (P = 0.028). No patient in the triple therapy group showed hypotony or eyeball atrophy. Compared to TCP, triple therapy shows higher success rate, fewer complications, and attributes to visual function preservation.

A comparison of autologous transplantation of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) monolayer sheet graft with RPE-Bruch's membrane complex graft in neovascular age-related macular degeneration

PURPOSE

To compare the outcome after choroidal neovascular (CNV) membrane excision and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) transplantation and make further evaluation of two types of RPE grafts on the visual function in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD), complicated by massive subretinal haemorrhage.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 80 patients who underwent CNV membrane excision with or without RPE transplantation. Two types of RPE grafts were adopted, RPE-Bruch's membrane complex graft (subgroup 1) and RPE monolayer sheet graft (subgroup 2). Outcome measures included pre- and postoperative visual acuity score (VAS), clinical findings, complications and recurrence rates.

RESULTS

The mean VAS [Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS)] in the CNV membrane excision group was 11.06 ± 18.28 at baseline and 14.41 ± 16.86 at follow-up (p = 0.12) in a mean follow-up period of 24.35 ± 9.31 months. While in subgroup 1, VAS increased from 22.62 ± 23.72 to 35.50 ± 24.46 (p = 0.02) in a mean period of 20.63 ± 6.25 months. The percentage of visual acuity (VA) improvement (at least two or more lines changed) in subgroup 1 is 62.5%, which is significantly higher than that in CNV excision group (23.5%), p = 0.02. In subgroup 2, VAS increased from 16.61 ± 27.98 to 29.16 ± 23.80 (p = 0.02) in a mean period of 21.72 ± 11.09 months. The percentage of VA improvement in subgroup 2 is 58.0%, which is also significantly higher than that in CNV excision group (23.5%), p = 0.02. Postoperative VA elevation was comparable between the two subgroups (p = 0.05). Complications including retinal detachment, proliferative vitreal retinopathy and CNV recurrence occurred in both techniques. Central fixation stability was observed in eight eyes in subgroup 1 and five eyes in subgroup 2.

CONCLUSIONS

The autologous RPE transplantation can increase the vision of patients with haemorrhagic AMD. Two types of autologous RPE grafts were both effective and comparable in restoring visual function and central fixation stability.

Effects of interspecific interaction-linked habitat factors on moose resource selection and environmental stress

Resource selection of herbivores is a complex ecological process that operates in relation to biological or non-biological factors, which may affect the feeding and movement, and subsequently their spatial distribution and environmental stress. Here, we estimated moose (Alces alces cameloides) resource selection for habitat variables and the effect of interspecific interactions related to roe deer (Capreolus pygargus bedfordi) on its population distribution and environmental stress in the Khingan Mountain region of northeast China at local and regional scales. Different response patterns of moose resource selection, spatial distribution, and environmental stress to interspecific interaction-linked habitat factors were shown at the two scales. A general ecological chain, response of moose to interspecific interaction-linked habitat factors, was exhibited at the regional scale, and at the local scale, heterogeneous responses, linkages of habitat selection and environmental stress of moose population might be driven by different interspecific interaction patterns. Our study firstly suggested that moose resource selection, food availability, diet quality, population density and environmental stress indicators were impacted by interactions with the distribution of other sympatric herbivore species and showed differences in ecological response chains at various spatial scales. These findings are useful for sympatric herbivore assembly conservation, habitat quality monitoring and management.

Dependable and Efficient Clinical Molecular Diagnosis of Chinese RP Patient with Targeted Exon Sequencing

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is the most common inherited retinal disease. It is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorder, which is why it is particularly challenging to diagnose. The aim of this study was to establish a targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) approach for the comprehensive, rapid, and cost-effective clinical molecular diagnosis of RP. A specific hereditary eye disease enrichment panel (HEDEP) based on exome capture technology was used to collect the protein coding regions of 371 targeted hereditary eye disease genes, followed by high-throughput sequencing on the Illumina HiSeq2000 platform. From a cohort of 34 Chinese RP families, 13 families were successfully diagnosed; thus, the method achieves a diagnostic rate of approximately 40%. Of 16 pathogenic mutations identified, 11 were novel. Our study demonstrates that targeted capture sequencing offers a rapid and effective method for the molecular diagnosis of RP, which helps to provide a more accurate clinical diagnosis and paves the way for genetic counseling, family planning, and future gene-targeted treatment.

Role of endoplasmic reticulum stress in the loss of retinal ganglion cells in diabetic retinopathy

Endoplasmic reticulum stress is closely involved in the early stage of diabetic retinopathy. In the present study, a streptozotocin-induced diabetic animal model was given an intraperitoneal injection of tauroursodeoxycholic acid. Results from immunofluorescent co-localization experiments showed that both caspase-12 protein and c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1 phosphorylation levels significantly in-creased, which was associated with retinal ganglion cell death in diabetic retinas. The C/ERB mologous protein pathway directly contributed to glial reactivity, and was subsequently responsible for neuronal loss and vascular abnormalities in diabetic retinopathy. Our experimental findings dicate that endoplasmic reticulum stress plays an important role in diabetes-induced retinal neu-ronal loss and vascular abnormalities, and that inhibiting the activation of the endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway provides effective protection against diabetic retinopathy.

Autologous transplantation of simple retinal pigment epithelium sheet for massive submacular hemorrhage associated with pigment epithelium detachment

PURPOSE

To evaluate the long-term outcome of autologous simple RPE sheet transplantation in patients with simultaneous massive submacular hemorrhage and pigment epithelium detachment (PED).

METHODS

Fourteen patients with 10 occult AMD eyes and 4 PCV eyes underwent a surgical procedure including a 180° peripheral temporal retinotomy, choroidal neovascular membrane (CNVM) excision, and transplantation of an autologous simple RPE sheet developed from the PED region outside the CNVM lesion. Best-corrected visual acuity, multifocal ERG, and microperimetry were recorded to evaluate macular function. Optical coherence tomography, fundus fluorescein angiography, and an RPE autofluorescence test were performed to observe the status of the transplanted simple RPE sheet.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up duration was 24 ± 6 months. Mean ETDRS score increased from 14.0 ± 23.4 preoperatively to 31.9 ± 23.8 at 18 months postoperatively (P < 0.05). Of 14 eyes, 5 (36%) presented with central fixation postoperatively, whereas only 3 (21%) eyes presented with central fixation preoperatively. Ten grafts (71%) showed normal RPE color. Postoperative complications included one (7%) retinal detachment due to proliferative vitreoretinopathy and one (7%) delayed recurrent submacular hemorrhage.

CONCLUSIONS

Transplantation of an autologous simple RPE sheet for eyes with massive submacular hemorrhage associated with PED was achieved with a simplified surgical procedure, resulting in increased postoperative visual acuity.

Preliminary evaluation on the use of homing pigeons as a biomonitor in urban areas

This study evaluates the usefulness of homing pigeons as a biomonitor of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in urban environments. The mean concentrations of total PAHs in liver and lung tissues were greater in pigeons from Beijing compared to pigeons from Chengdu, however, this difference was only statistically significant for PAH concentrations in liver tissue (P < 0.05). Similarly, the severity of anthracosis or pneumoconiosis in lung tissue and hepatitis in liver tissue was greater in pigeons from Beijing compared to pigeons from Chengdu. Low molecular weight PAHs dominated the contribution of individual PAHs in both tissues. Significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed for most low and moderate molecular weights PAHs in liver and for some low and high molecular weights PAHs in lung between the two cites. The profile patterns of individual PAHs were similar between lung tissue of pigeons and between local ambient airs in summer for both cities, whereas the profile patterns between liver tissue and pigeon food were less similar. These data suggest that homing pigeons may be of value as a biomonitor of environmental pollution in urban areas.

Autologous transplantation of retinal pigment epithelium-Bruch's membrane complex for hemorrhagic age-related macular degeneration

PURPOSE

To evaluate a surgical procedure for patients with hemorrhagic age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

METHODS

This procedure consisted of excision of the choroidal neovascular membrane and transplantation of autologous retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-Bruch's membrane complex. The RPE-Bruch's membrane complex for transplantation was surgically developed by dissecting Bruch's membrane with the choriocapillaris from the medium size choroidal vessel layer at the midperipheral region of the choroid. Twenty-one eyes of 21 patients had this surgical procedure. Visual function tests included best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), multifocal (mf)ERG, and microperimetry. Optical coherence tomography (OCT), fluorescein angiography, and autofluorescence examinations were performed to study the status of the transplanted graft.

RESULTS

Among the 21 eyes, 17 with complete clinical data and qualified follow-up durations, which were 20.35 +/- 10.31 months on average, were analyzed in this series. On the last follow-up visit, the mean for the ETDRS scores increased from 28.65 +/- 23.99 before surgery to 47.76 +/- 17.22 after surgery. Microperimetry showed that after surgery, seven eyes gained central fixation at the 12-month follow-up examination. However, two eyes lost their central fixation on the last follow-up visit. Fourteen (82.35%) of the transplanted patches preserved normal color without depigmentation. Among the 21 eyes, proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) occurred in 3 (14.29%), and a recurrent neovascular membrane was observed in one eye (4.76%).

CONCLUSIONS

The transplantation of the autologous RPE-Bruch's membrane complex can increase the visual acuity of patients with hemorrhagic AMD. The surviving transplanted graft with functional overlying retina was observed after surgery.

Exposure of traffic police to Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in Beijing, China

Exposure of on-duty traffic police in Beijing to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) was investigated during the summer, 2004 using a personal sampling technique in measuring both particulate and gaseous phase PAHs. The results were then compared with those from two control sites away from the street. Exposure levels to gaseous and particulate PAHs for the traffic police were found to be 1525 +/- 759 ngm(-3) and 148 +/- 118 ngm(-3), respectively, representing 2-2.5 times higher levels than those at the control sites. The daily inhalation exposure of the police was estimated to be 277 ngkg(-1)d(-1). Most of the PAHs exposure came from the vapor phase, particularly NAP, FLO and PHE. Based on calculated PAH diagnostic ratios, the major source of PAHs exposure was from vehicle exhaust. The effects of temperature, humidity and atmospheric stability on exposure levels are also discussed.

An evaluation of sources of nitrogen in shallow groundwater using (15)N abundance technique

A (15)N abundance technique was employed to identify the source of NO(3)-N in groundwater under three commercial citrus production sites in central Florida. Water samples were collected from 0 to 300 and 300 to 600 cm depths in the surficial aquifer and analyzed for NO(3)-N and delta N-15 (delta (15)N). Groundwater samples were also collected in a residential area adjacent to one of the citrus groves and analyzed for NO(3)-N and delta (15)N. The delta (15)N values were in the range of (+)1 to (+)10% in both depths underneath the citrus groves. The range of delta (15)N measured in this study represents the range expected for groundwater that was impacted by NO(3)-N originated from mineralization of organic N from the soil as well as from the crop residue. There are occasional high delta (15)N values which are indicative of the effects of NH(3) volatilization losses of applied fertilizer N. The range of delta (15)N values for groundwater samples collected from the residential area adjacent to the citrus groves was very similar to that from the groundwater underneath the citrus groves. Thus, the source of NO(3)-N that impacted the groundwater under the citrus groves also impacted the groundwater in the adjacent residential area.

Coregistration of quantitative proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging with neuropathological and neurophysiological analyses defines the extent of neuronal impairments in murine human immunodeficiency virus type-1 encephalitis

Relatively few immune-activated and virus-infected mononuclear phagocytes (MP; perivascular macrophages and microglia) may affect widespread neuronal dysfunction during human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)-associated dementia (HAD). Indeed, histopathological evidence of neuronal dropout often belies the extent of cognitive impairment. To define relationships between neuronal function and histopathology, proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (1H MRSI) and hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP) were compared with neuronal and glial immunohistology in a murine model of HIV-1 encephalitis (HIVE). HIV-1(ADA)-infected human monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) were stereotactically injected into the subcortex of severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice. Sham-operated and unmanipulated mice served as controls. Seven days after cell injection, brain histological analyses revealed a focal giant cell encephalitis, with reactive astrocytes, microgliosis, and neuronal dropout. Strikingly, significant reductions in N-acetyl aspartate concentration ([NAA]) and LTP levels in HIVE mice were in both injected and contralateral hemispheres and in brain subregions, including the hippocampus, where neuropathology was limited or absent. The data support the importance of 1H MRSI as a tool for assessing neuronal function for HAD. The data also demonstrate that a highly focal encephalitis can produce global deficits for neuronal function and metabolism.

Mutation analysis of the NMDAR2B (GRIN2B) gene in schizophrenia

NMDA receptor dysfunction may be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Based on this hypothesis, we screened 48 Japanese patients with schizophrenia for mutations in the coding region of the NMDAR2B subunit gene (GRIN2B). An association study between the identified DNA sequence variants and schizophrenia was performed in 268 Japanese patients with schizophrenia and 337 Japanese control subjects. Eight single nucleotide polymorphisms were detected, all of which were synonymous. The association sample showed statistically significant excesses of homozygosity for the polymorphisms in the 3' region of the last exon in the patients with schizophrenia (P = 0.004) and higher frequency of the G allele of the 366C/G polymorphism (corrected P = 0.04) in the patients than in the controls. Although we did not detect NMDAR2B protein variants, our findings support the possibility that the GRIN2B gene or a locus in linkage disequilibrium with it may confer susceptibility to schizophrenia. Replication studies in independent samples are warranted.

[Determination of trace barium in biological samples by Zeeman graphite AAS with coated graphite tube]

Using a tungstate-coated graphite tube, trace barium in biological samples was determined by Zeeman graphite AAS. The sensitivity of Ba can be significantly improved. The precision and the lifetime of graphite tube have been improved by adding matrix modifier. The method is simple. The recovery and precision are satisfactory.

Attempted transmission of Babesia major by Boophilus microplus

Two experiments was carried out to determine if Babesia major could be transmitted by Boophilus microplus. In experiment 1, a Babesia-free batch of laboratory reared Bo. microplus larvae were applied to an intact calf infected by inoculation with a B. major stabilate. The calf showed a B. major parasitaemia while the larvae, nymphs and adult ticks were engorging. The engorged females were cultured and batches were incubated at one of the three following temperatures: 24, 28 or 32 degrees C. Approximately 10,000 larvae derived from each of the females were used to infest each of three splenectomized calves. In experiment 2, Babesia-free Bo. microplus larvae were applied to a splenectomized calf; the calf was injected with B. major stabilate and showed a B. major parasitaemia during the adult stage of tick development. The engorged females were incubated at room temperature and the resulting larvae (approximately 10,000) were used to infest a splenectomized calf. Examination of blood films for the presence of B. major from the four calves infested by the second generation larvae in the two experiments were negative.

A study of effects of WGA and ConA on RBC membrane receptors using a new ektacytometric method

With a new ektacytometry, we studied the relation between the microstructure of red blood cell (RBC) membrane and the rheological properties of RBCs in a shear flow field of low viscosity. The main contributions of this paper are as follows: 1. The hemorheological meanings of the orientation index (DI)or and the small deformation index (DI)d were explored. (DI)or is an overall rheological index depending on the deformability and morphology of RBCs. The better the physiological shape of RBCs is maintained, the greater the (DI)or is. (DI)d can be used to describe the lipid fluidity of RBC membrane. Such an explanation for the meaning of (DI)d has been forcefully supported by our experiments using electron spin resonance (ESR) and fluorescence polarization. 2. The influence of wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) of different concentrations on the lipid fluidity of membrane is different from that of concanavalin A (ConA). The lipid fluidity of membrane changes with WGA concentration treating RBCs and there is a maximum value for the membrane fluidity at a specific concentration of WGA. However, the deformability of membrane described by the integrate deformation index (IDI) monotonically decreased with the increase in WGA concentration treating RBCs. 3. It is concluded that the increase in the lipid fluidity of red cell membrane is not necessarily associated with the improvement of RBC deformability.

[Research respects and status of functional neuromuscular stimulation]

Functional Neuromuscular Stimulation (FNS) is a technique of restoring movements of paralyzed patients. This paper describes several respects of functional neuromuscular stimulation, such as stimulators, sensors, electrodes, muscle-skeletal models and control methods. Some novel control strategies are also discussed in this paper.

Experiments on the transmission of Babesia major and Babesia bigemina by Haemaphysalis punctata

Experiments on the transmission by Haemaphysalis punctata of three large Babesia strains were carried out. Three Babesia-free batches of laboratory reared H. punctata ticks were infected with two strains of Babesia major, B. major (Xingjiang strain), isolated with adult ticks of H punctata and B. major (Henan strain), isolated with H. longicornis) and a strain of Babesia bigemina by feeding them on the calves infected by inoculation of blood stabilates. H. punctata was shown to be capable of transmitting the B. major strains transovarially. The larvae, nymphs and adults developed from female ticks engorged on the calf infected with B. major (Xingjiang strain) transmitted the pathogen to splenectomised calves with prepatent periods of 15, 11 and 12 days, respectively. The calves infested with larvae and nymphs died of babesiosis with parasitemias of 400 and 710 per 1000 erythrocytes. The calf infested with adult ticks survived babesiosis, but the number of erythrocytes and the amount of haemoglobin were reduced greatly. H. punctata transmitted B. major (Henan strain) in the same way. The prepatent periods of the calves infested with larvae, nymph and adult ticks were 9, 10 and 12 days, respectively. Calves infested with larvae survived, but those infested with nymphal and adult ticks died of babesiosis with parasitemias of 410 and 100 per 1000 erythrocytes, respectively. H. punctata ticks did not transmit the B. bigemina strain to splenectomised calves. There were no clinical symptoms and no parasites were discovered in the blood films during a 2 month observation period after the calves were infested with larval, nymphal and adult ticks derived from female ticks engorged on calves inoculated with B. bigemina.

[Treatment of central retinal artery occlusion with thrombolysis via superselective ophthalmic artery catheterization]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the therapeutic effect of thrombolysis via superselective ophthalmic artery catheterization for treatment of central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO).

METHOD

Urokinase was directly infused via ophthalmic artery (OA) or common carotid artery by catheterization after angiography into 4 eyes of 4 patients with CRAO, The times of onset ranging from 7 to 14 days.

RESULTS

The visual acuity was significantly improved in 2 eyes. No visual change was found in 2 eyes in which the beginning part of internal carotid artery (ICA) or OA was occluded. There was no complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Good results were obtained in the eyes in which thrombolysis was launched early in the course of the disease and urokinase was successfully infused into the OA. It seems that there is no effect for the eyes complicated with occlusion in ICA and OA.

Number, size, and regional distribution of motor neurons in the dorsolateral and retrodorsolateral nuclei as a function of sex and neonatal stimulation

Motor neurons were measured in the retrodorsolateral nucleus (RDLN) and the dorsolateral nucleus (DLN) of adult male and female rats that were reared with normal or reduced levels of maternal anogenital stimulation. In contrast with findings for the spinal nucleus of the bulbocavernosus, which is located in the same spinal segments, reduced stimulation had no effect on neuron number in either nucleus. However, several regional and sex differences were observed. Rostrally located neurons were larger in both the RDLN and the DLN; these location effects were greater in females. There was no sex difference in RDLN neuron size, but DLN neurons were larger in females, particularly in the rostral region. Females had significantly more cells in the RDLN, a nucleus previously considered nondimorphic, whereas males had more DLN neurons. Both regional and sex differences may reflect local differences in trophic factors from targets or afferents.

Maternal stimulation affects the number of motor neurons in a sexually dimorphic nucleus of the lumbar spinal cord

The role of maternal stimulation in the development of a lumbar motor nucleus (spinal nucleus of the bulboca vernosus, SNB) was investigated. The perineum, which has afferents to the lumbar region, is stimulated throughout early development by maternal licking, a behavior that is elicited by chemosignals secreted by the pups. In the present study, half of the dams were treated with intranasal zinc sulfate throughout the postpartum period, which led to a specific reduction in maternal stimulation of pup perineum by interfering with the reception of eliciting signals. Adult offspring of both sexes from anosmic dams had 11% fewer SNB motor neurons than normally stimulated controls, an effect which was most apparent in the rostral portion of the nucleus. There was no effect of treatment on neuron size. It was concluded that afferent input provided by species-typical maternal behavior contributes to the number of neurons that survive the neonatal period of normal cell death.