Controllable preparation of monodisperse alginate microcapsules with oil cores

Here we report a novel strategy for controllable preparation monodisperse alginate microcapsules with oil cores, where the thickness of the alginate shells, as well as the number and diversity of the oil cores can be tailored precisely. Monodisperse oil-in-water-in-oil (O/W/O) emulsions are generated in a microfluidic device as templates, which contain alginate molecules and a water-soluble calcium complex in the middle aqueous phase. Alginate microcapsules are produced by gelling O/W/O emulsions in oil solution with acetic acid, where the pH decreasing will trigger the calcium ions being released from calcium complex and cross-linking with alginate molecules. Increasing the alginate molecule concentration in emulsion templates affects little on the thickness of the microcapsules but improves their stability in DI water. The strength of alginate microcapsules can be reinforced by post cross-linking in calcium chloride, polyetherimide, or chitosan solution. Typical payloads, such as thyme essential oil, lavender essential oil and W/O emulsions are encapsulated in alginate microcapsules successfully. Furthermore, tailoring the thickness of the alginate shells, as well as the number and the diversity of the oil cores precisely by manipulation the emulsion templates with microfluidics is also demonstrated. The proposed method shows excellent controllability in designing alginate microcapsules with oil cores.

[A clinicopathological classification analysis of ocular mass lesions in 7 910 cases]

Objective: To investigate the anatomical region, histopathological classification and histogensis distribution of ocular mass lesions in South China. Methods: Retrospective cases study. The clinical and pathological data of 7 910 samples with ocular (adnexal) tumors or proliferative lesions which were examined from January 2000 to May 2018 were retrospectively retrieved. The constituent ratios of ocular mass lesions in different anatomical regions and histogenesis have been analyzed. Results: There were 3 445 males and 4 465 females aged from 3 months to 106 years. Classification by anatomical region. Eyelid 4 976 cases (62.9%): benign-pigmented nevus (31.7%, 1 342/4 235), squamous cell papilloma (12.3%, 519/4 235), seborrheic keratosis (9.4%, 396/4 235); malignant-basal cell carcinoma (48.5%, 359/741), sebaceous gland carcinoma (34.4%, 255/741), squamous cell carcinoma (12.3%, 91/741). Ocular surface 1 449 cases (18.3%): benign-pigmented nevus (26.6%, 359/1 348), squamous cell papilloma (12.8%, 173/1 348); malignant-lymphoma (34.7%, 35/101), squamous cell carcinoma (30.7%, 31/101).Orbit 1 485 cases (18.8%): benign-hemangioma (28.5%, 332/1 167), lacrimal gland (duct) cyst(13.2%, 154/1 167); malignant-lymphoma (44.7%, 142/318), adenoid cystic carcinoma (10.1%, 32/318). Classification by histogenesis: epithelial 2 145 cases (27.1%), cutaneous appendages 378 cases (4.8%), cystoid 1 068 cases (13.5%), mesenchymal 748 cases (9.5%), lymph-hematopoietic 225 cases (2.8%), neurogenic 31 cases (0.4%), melanocytic 1 765 cases (22.3%), others 1 550 cases (19.6%). Conclusions: Over the past 18 years, the ocular tumors identified at the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine most frequently occur in eyelid and originate from epithelium. The most common types are as followings. Benign lesions: pigmented nevus, squamous cell papilloma are the most common types for eyelid and ocular surface, whereas hemangioma, lacrimal gland (duct) cyst and epidermoid cyst are the most common types for orbit. Malignant cancers: basal cell carcinoma is the most prevalent disease in eyelid, whereas lymphoma occurs more frequently in ocular surface and orbit. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2019, 55: 847-853).

[Value of magnetic resonance imaging in assessment of iron deposition among patients with hepatic alveolar echinococcosis: a preliminary evaluation]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the value of MRI combined with serum ferritin analysis in measurement of hepatic iron deposition among patients with hepatic alveolar echinococcosis.

METHODS

A total of 96 patients with definitive diagnosis of hepatic alveolar echinococcosis and 30 healthy volunteers were enrolled and underwent routine 1.5T MR scanning, and all laboratory examination data were captured. The liver-to-muscle signal intensity ratio, serum ferritin level and liver functions were analyzed.

RESULTS

The liver-to-muscle signal intensity ratio was (1.95 ± 0.57) in patients with hepatic alveolar echinococcosis and (2.22 ± 0.28) in healthy volunteers (t = 2.022, P < 0.05), and the liver-to-muscle signal intensity ratio was negatively associated the serum ferritin level in patients with hepatic alveolar echinococcosis (r_s = -0.446, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Abnormal iron deposition is detected in the liver of patients with hepatic alveolar echinococcosis, and serum ferritin level may be helpful for the identification of abnormal iron deposition in the liver of patients with hepatic alveolar echinococcosis. The liver-to-muscle signal intensity ratio measured by MRI may be a non-invasive approached used to assess the hepatic iron deposition in patients with hepatic alveolar echinococcosis.

[Protective effect of excretory-secretory protein from adult Trichinella spiralis on ovalbumin-induced allergic rhinitis in mice]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the protective effect of excretory-secretory protein (AES) from adult Trichinella spiralis on ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic rhinitis in mice.

METHODS

Eighteen female BALB/c mice were randomly divided into three groups, including the blank control group (Group A), OVA-induced rhinitis group (Group B) and AES treatment group (Group C). Mice in Group A were given PBS. Mice in Group B were intraperitoneally injected with antigen adjuvant suspension for systemic sensitization, once every other day for seven times; then, local excitation was intranasally induced with 5% OVA solution once a day for seven times to establish a mouse model of allergic rhinitis. In addition to induction of allergic rhinitis, mice in Group C were given 25 μg AES at baseline sensitization and local excitation. Following the final challenge, mice were observed for 30 min in each group, and the behavioral score was evaluated. The serum levels of IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10 and TGF-β were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in mice, and the pathological changes of mouse nasal mucosa were observed under a microscope.

RESULTS

There was a significant difference in the mouse behavioral scores among the three groups (F = 110.12, P < 0.01). The mouse behavioral score was significantly higher in Group B than in Group A (7.17 ± 0.75 vs. 1.33 ± 0.52, P < 0.01), and more remarkable pathological damages of mouse nasal mucosa were seen in Group B than in Group A, while the mouse behavioral score was significantly decreased in Group C than in Group B (P < 0.01), and the pathological damages of mouse nasal mucosa remarkably alleviated in Group C relative to Group B. There was a significant difference in serum IFN-γ level among the three groups (F = 7.50, P < 0.01) and the serum IFN-γ level in Group B was significantly lower than in group A and C (both P < 0.05). There were significant differences in serum IL-4 (F = 470.81, P < 0.01) and IL-5 levels (F =68.20, P < 0.01) among the three groups, and significantly greater serum IL-4 and IL-5 levels were detected in Group B than in Group A (P < 0.01), while significantly lower serum IL-4 and IL-5 levels were detected in Group C than in Group B (P < 0.01). There were significant differences in serum IL-10 (F = 174.91, P < 0.01) and TGF-β levels (F = 9.39, P < 0.01) among the three groups, and significantly greater serum IL-10 and TGF-β levels were seen in Group C than in Group B (both P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

T. spiralis AES has a remarkable protective activity against OVA-induced allergic rhinitis in mice.

[Impact of Non-middle Hepatic Vein Reconstruction on the Result of Low Graft-to-recipient Weight Ratio Living Donor Liver Transplantation]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze of the minimum graft-to-recipient weight ratio (GRWR) required for living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) without middle hepatic vein branch (MHVT) reconstruction.

METHODS

We retrospectively collected the clinical data and outcomes of 303 LDLT patients over 16 years from 2001 to 2017. The minimum GRWR of non-middle hepatic vein reconstruction was analyzed by propensity score (PSM).

RESULTS

With PSM analysis, no significant differences were observed in postoperative complications, SFSS, inpatient time, liver function, and coagulation function, but significant differences in 1-year, 3-year and 5-year survival between MHVT reconstruction and non-reconstruction group. The patients with MHVT reconstruction had better short-term and long-term survival than those without reconstruction.

CONCLUSION

For LDLT patients without HMVT reconstruction, GRWR should be greater than 0.86%; for patients with HMVT reconstruction, GRWR is acceptable between 0.5% and 0.6%.

A menopause survey of women with benign breast disease history in northwest China

Objectives: The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of menopause syndrome (MPS) and the present treatment status for menopause symptoms in women with benign breast disease history, compared with those without breast problems, and to analyze the affecting factors of medical visits and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) application for menopause symptoms. Methods: A questionnaire survey was conducted by face-to-face interview with a general sample of 8500 Chinese women aged 45-55 years from 162 villages and towns of Gansu province, China. Results: The MPS prevalence in the Benign breast disease history group was 76.60%, and was not statistically different from that of the Control group. Few of the participants had medical visits or had undergone treatment. The Benign breast disease history group was more informed of the treatment options available and more likely to start HRT. Conclusions: Most women with benign breast disease history experienced menopausal symptoms when experiencing reproductive senescence, they had more knowledge about menopause syndrome and more positive to the therapeutic than whom without breast problems.

[Clinical effects of application of antibiotic bone cement in wounds of diabetic foot ulcers]

Objective: To explore the clinical effects of antibiotic bone cement in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. Methods: According to the treatment methods, 18 patients with diabetic foot ulcers (11 males and 7 females, aged 53-79 years), who were conformed to the study criteria and admitted to our hospital from January 2016 to January 2017, were enrolled in traditional group; 18 patients with diabetic foot ulcers (11 males and 7 females, aged 55-80 years), who were conformed to the study criteria and admitted to our hospital from February 2017 to February 2018, were enrolled in bone cement group. Wounds of patients in traditional group were treated with vacuum sealing drainage after conventional debridement. Wounds of patients in bone cement group were covered with antibiotic bone cement after conventional debridement. The number of patients with positive bacterial culture in wound exudate in the 2 groups on admission and 3, 6, 9, and 15 days after surgery, the length of hospital stay, the number of operation, and the wound complete healing time were retrospectively recorded. Data were processed with Fisher's exact probability test and independent sample t test. Results: Compared with (29±10) d and (4.6±1.2) times of patients in traditional group, the length of hospital stay [(9±3) d] of patients was obviously shortened, the number of operation [(1.3±0.6) times] of patients was obviously reduced, the number of patients with positive bacterial culture in wound exudate at each time point post surgery was obviously reduced (t=8.177, 9.896, P<0.05 or P<0.01) in bone cement group. There were no statistically significant differences in the number of patients with positive bacterial culture in wound exudate on admission and wound complete healing time between patients in the 2 groups (t=0.175, P>0.05). Conclusions: The antibiotic bone cement treatment of diabetic foot ulcers can reduce the number of patients with positive bacterial culture in wound exudate and the number of operation, as well as shorten the length of hospital stay.

[Effects of intrathecal transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 blocker on cervical distension induced visceral pain response]

Objective: With the aid of an acute visceral pain model of uterine cervical distension (UCD), the present study aimed to observe the effects of intrathecal administration of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) antagonist SB-366791 on UCD induced-visceral nociception as well as its involved molecular mechanisms. Methods: A total of 30 Sprague-Dawley-derived adult virgin female rats were used. UCD model was established under isoflurane inhalation anesthesia. Briefly, a lower abdominal incision at midline was made to expose the uteral cervix, two metal rods were inserted through both sides of the cervix separately, one rod was fixed and the other one was connected to a pulley system with application of manual weighted traction (0, 25, 50, 75 or 100 g) for simulating 1 h of cervical distension. In addition, 12 Sprague-Dawley-derived adult virgin female rats were subjected to intrathecal catheter implantation, and UCD was established 7 days later. The rats were divided randomly into two groups; one group was administrated with intrathecal SB-366791 while the other was administrated with the same volume of saline as control. The 75 g distension force was then applied for an hour and the electromyographic (EMG) of musculus rectus abdominis, heart rate as well as respiratory frequency were measured continuously during the surgery. The spinal cord (T(12)-L(2)) was collected 30 minutes after UCD for the detection of changes of c-FOS and TRPV1 expression. Results: UCD increased EMG activity (P<0.05) and c-FOS expression (P<0.05) in the deep dorsal horn region and central canal of the spinal cord (T(12)-L(2)) in a stimuli-dependent manner, the expression of TRPV1 in the T(12)-L(2) spinal cord also increased in response to UCD stimulation (P<0.05). Compared with the saline group, intrathecal SB-366791 significantly decreased EMG activity (P<0.05) as well as spinal c-FOS (P<0.05) expression induced by UCD. Conclusions: UCD in rats increases EMG activity of musculus rectus abdominis as well as spinal c-FOS and TRPV1 expression. Intrathecal administration of TRPV1 antagonist SB-366791 significantly decreases the visceral nociception induced by UCD.

[Efficacy analysis of LVIS and Enterprise stent assisted coil in the treatment of vertebral artery dissection aneurysm]

Objective: To observe and evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of LVIS stent and Enterprise stent assisted coil in embolization of vertebral artery dissection aneurysm (VDA). Methods: Clinical data of 96 patients with VDAs treated by LVIS stent and Enterprise stent assisted coil were analyzed retrospectively between January, 2013 and June, 2017.Of all, the LVIS stent assisted coil was performed in 28 patients (LVIS-stent group) and Enterprise in 68 patients (Enterprise-stent group). The clinical and imaging follow-up were performed. The instant embolization rate, complications, and recurrence rate were analyzed and compared between the two groups. Results: Instant angiographic results:in the LVIS stent group, complete occlusion was achieved in 17 VDAs (60.7%), near-complete occlusion in 10VDAs (35.7%), and partial occlusion in 1 VDA (3.6%). In the Enterprise stent group, complete occlusion was achieved in 27 VDAs (39.7%), near-complete occlusion in 34VDAs(50.0%), partial occlusion in 7VDAs (10.3%). Procedure-related complications occurred in 3 patients (10.7%) in LVIS stent group and 3 patients (4.4%) in Enterprise stent group. DSA follow-up was performed during 6 to 12 months after surgery, and 10 patients with vertebral artery dissection aneurysm recurred, 2 in the LVIS group and 8 in the Enterprise stent group. The latest modified Rankin Scale score was 0 in 55 patients,1 in 13, 2 in 1, 3 in 1, and 6 in 1. Among them, all follow-up patients in the LVIS stent group had good prognosis, while in the Enterprise stent group, 50 patients (94.4%) had a good prognosis. Conclusions: The stent-assisted coils have a higher degree of embolization in the vertebral artery dissection aneurysms, a higher rate of near-total embolization, a lower incidence of neurological complications, and a good prognosis. The complete andnear-complete occlusion rates and the incidence of neurological complicationsin the LVIS group was higher than that in the Enterprise groupand the recurrence ratesin the LVIS group was lower than that in the Enterprise group,both with no statistically significant difference.

[Caloric test and hearing characteristics in patients with vestibular migraine and Meniere's disease]

Objective:This study was designed to distinguish vestibular migraine(VM) from Meniere's disease(MD) by comparing age, sex, family history, audiological and vestibular test results in patients with VM or MD. Method:Forty-six patients with suspected VM, 60 patients with confirmed VM, and 60 patients with confirmed MD were studied. All patients were asked for detailed medical history, and then underwent bithermal caloric test and audiological test. The hearing function and vestibular function were analyzed. Result:①General conditions: the sex ratio with suspected VM, confirmed VM and confirmed MD was 1∶4.75, 1∶5.67 and 1∶1. Family history in these three groups was 80.43%（37/46）,66.67%（40/60）,6.67%（4/60）, respectively. ②In the three groups, the abnormal rates of caloric test were 50.00% (23/46), 31.67% (19/60) and 78.33%(47/60), respectively.③The rate of pure tone audiometry abnormality in the three groups was 60.87% (28/46), 63.33% (38/60) and 100.00% (60/60), respectively. Of 46 suspected VM patients, 18 (39.13%) had high frequency hearing loss, 7 (15.22%) had full frequency hearing loss, and 3 (6.52%) had low frequency hearing loss. Among 60 confirmed VM patients, 18 (30.00%) had high frequency hearing loss, 15 (25.00%) had full frequency hearing loss, 4 (6.67%) had low frequency hearing loss, and 1 case (1.67%) with low frequency and high frequency hearing loss. Among 60 confirmed MD patients, 56 (93.33%) had full frequency hearing loss, and 4 (6.67%) had low frequency hearing loss. ④The difference of audiological test between patients with confirmed VM and patients with suspected VM was not statistically significant（P>0.05）. The difference of bithermal caloric test between patients with confirmed VM and patients with suspected VM was not statistically significant（P>0.05）.Compared with MD patients, the incidence of hearing loss and the incidence of abnormal bithermal caloric test in VM patients is lower（P<0.05）. Conclusion:The abnormality rate of caloric test and the incidence of hearing loss in MD patients were higher than VM. The confirmed and suspected VM patients can be accompanied by hearing loss mainly with high hearing frequency decline. There was no difference in clinical characteristics between confirmed and suspected VM patients.

[Effect of cyclophosphamide on ovarian function in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus in childbearing age]

Objective: Serum anti Müllerian hormone (AMH) was used to evaluate the effect of cyclophosphamide (CTX) on ovarian function in female patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods: A total of 121 female patients who were 18-50 years old with normal menstruation were selected. Among them, 54 patients were treated with CTX as the study group and the remaining 67 cases as the control group. Before and after treatment for 6 months, the clinical characteristics, menstruation and AMH level of all patients were recorded and detected. At the same time, the method of using CTX and the cumulative measurement are recorded. Results: (1) Before treatment, there was no significant difference in AMH and mean age, duration of disease and SLEDAI score between the CTX treatment group and the control group. The renal injury in the CTX treatment group (44.4%) was higher than that of the control group (34.3%), and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). (2) After 6 months of treatment, the AMH of group CTX decreased from (2.39±1.58) μg/L to (1.56±1.42) μg/L, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.01). But there was no significant change in the control group. In 54 cases of CTX treatment group, 23 cases (42.6%) had different degree of menstrual abnormalities, while 67 cases had only 8 cases (11.9%) in the control group. Moreover, the AMH level of 31 cases with abnormal menstruation was (0.95±0.59) μg/L, which was significantly lower than that of the other 90 normal cases (2.36±1.58) μg/L. (3) In 54 cases of CTX treatment group, the cumulative dose of CTX was less than 3 g in 14 cases, 33 cases of 3-6 g, 7 cases greater than 6 g. AMH was all were lower than those before treatment. But there was a statistical difference between the 3 g group and 3-6 g group before treatment, and there were statistical differences between the groups. Conclusion: CTX can damage ovarian function in women of childbearing age SLE. Low dose intravenous CTX may have less damage. Serum AMH can be used to monitor ovarian function in patients with SLE and to guide individualized treatment.

[Association of CYP19A1 gene rs7176005 single nucleotide polymorphism with breast cancer risk and clinicopathologic features of tumor]

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the association of the CYP19A1 rs7176005 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) with breast cancer risk and with clinicopathologic features of tumors. Methods: This study was conducted by including 138 patients with breast cancer (cancer group), those who diagnosed as primary breast cancer after operation by pathology. There were 293 cases in the group of benign breast disease which was presented as a solid mass by the color ultrasound and pathologically diagnosed as "fibroadenoma or adenosis" (benign breast disease group), the cases were paired with breast cancer patients by age±5 in the same period, and there were 259 cases in the group of healthy control who received routine physical examination during the same period and were paired with breast cancer patients by age±5 without any detection of breast related diseases (healthy control group) at West China hospital between September 2012 and November 2016. The CYP19A1 rs7176005 SNP was detected by a direct sequencing method. Hardy-Weinberg test was used to analyze the genetic balance of the 3 groups. Chi square test was used to compare the distribution of rs7176005 genotypes between the 3 groups, and the differences of clinicopathological features in breast cancer patients carrying different genotypes. Results: The ages of the breast cancer cases, the benign breast disease group and the healthy control group were (44.69±8.09), (42.33±11.44) and (41.92±9.61) years old, respectively. Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium test identified that the composition ratios of alleles C and T in breast cancer group, benign breast disease group and healthy group were not statistically significant (χ(2) values were 0.83, 0.34 and 0.04, respectively, P values were 0.363, 0.561, and 0.852, respectively). All the three groups met the genetic balance, had consistency and could represent the population. Among the 138 cases of breast cancer, the CYP19A1 rs7176005 SNP was significantly associated with the diameter of the tumor (P=0.031). The majority of tumor size was <2 cm in patients who carrying TT and CT genotypes, and the proportion was 75% (12/16) and 58% (40/69), respectively. While those patients with TT genotype were mainly >2 cm and ≤5 cm, and the proportion was 51% (27/53). The distribution of TNM stage among patients with different genotypes was also statistically significant (χ(2)=11.19, P=0.025). The most common stage was Ⅱ in Patients who carrying CC and CT genotypes, and the proportion was 45.3% (24/53) and 52.2% (36/69), respectively. While those patients with TT genotype was mainly in stage Ⅰ and the proportion was 56.3% (9/16). Conclusion: Though the CYP19A1 rs7176005 SNP is not associated with breast cancer development, breast cancer patients with the C allele exhibit a high tumor growth rate and large diameters.

[Efficacy analysis of the endovascular treatment for 175 unruptured vertebrobasilar dissecting aneurysms]

Objective: To analyze the clinical characteristics, clinical effect and follow-up outcome of the different endovascular treatment techniques in the treatment of unruptured vertebrobasilar dissecting aneurysms (VBDAs). Methods: The clinical data of 160 consecutive patients (175VBDAs) from January 2012 to December 2016 in Beijing Tiantan hospital were retrospectively analyzed.All of the 175 aneurysms were treated with endovascular embolization, including 115 stent-assisted coils, 27 simple stents, 21 blood flow diverting devices, and 12 parent arteries occlusion.The imaging and clinical follow-up were performed after the operation. Results: Headache including cervical-occipital pain(43.1%)was the most common clinical manifestation.The incidence of perioperative complications was 3.75%, no intraoperative bleeding and no deaths.The imaging findings of 113 aneurysms were followed up for (9.9±7.3) months.Of the 71 stent-assisted coils, 62 recovered well and 9 relapsed; of the 19 aneurysms treated with simple stent, 4 recovered well, 11 improved, 2 stable and 2 relapsed; of the 15 aneurysms treated by the blood flow diverting devices, 4 recovered and 11 improved; all of the 8 aneurysms with parent arteries occlusion recovered well.A total of 144 patients were follow-up (17.3±16.6) months by the Modified Rankin Scale(mRS) score: 140 patients were 0-2 score and 4 patients were 3-6 score. Conclusions: The clinical manifestations of the unruptured VBDAs are complex, and the headache is the most common clinical symptom.Endovascular treatment for the treatment of unruptured VBDAs is safe and feasible.The principle of individualization should be followed during embolization.

[Management strategies of granulation in tracheal post-tracheostomy caused by prolonged mechanical ventilation]

Objective:To analyze the effect and safety of treatment in patients with airway stenosis caused by tracheotomy for mechanical ventilation. Method: We treated the patients with airway stenosis caused by granulation tissue. The patients with grade Ⅰ,Ⅱ airway stenosis were treated with adjustable flange tracheostomy tube, and the holmium laser under a fibro-laryngoscope were applied for the patients with grade Ⅲ airway stenosis.Two hundred and sixteen patients were enrolled in this study. Forty-four patients had been found tracheal stenosis caused by granulomatous hyperplasia, accounting for 20.4% of all patients, including 12 cases of gradeⅠ, 18 cases of grade Ⅱ, and 14 cases of grade Ⅲ.Result:Thirty patients with grade Ⅰ and Ⅱ were replaced with adjustable flange tracheostomy cannula. Fourteen cases of grade Ⅲ airway stenosis were treated with Ho:YAG laser under a fibro laryngoscope. All cases were completed operation successfully. None of cases bleeding, perforated and asphyxia during operation. The clinical symptoms disappeared after operation, and endoscopy showed that airways of patients were smooth. No recurrence were found after operation.Conclusion: Replacement of adjustable flange tracheostomy tube and Ho:YAG laser can safely and effectively treat airway obstruction caused by tracheal granulation tissue hyperplasia after tracheotomy.

[Photochemical induced vestibular ischemiawith icy water test in guinea pigs]

Objective:To ascertain the effects of a new method of photochemical reaction in vestibular function in guinea pigs.Method:Local photochemical reaction was initiated by systemic injection of rose bengal(20mg), photoillumination of the vestibule through medial wall of epitympanum for 30 minutes was started immediately after the injection of rose bengal, with a optic fiber connected to a xenon light (wavelength, 540nm; photointense, 500-600 mW/cm ²). There were 20 guinea pigs divided random equally into 2 groups. Group 1 was injected with rose bengal. Group 2 was control, injected with physiological saline solution. The ice caloric tests were performed on the second day.Result:The test group (7 ears) and the control group (6 ears) with test nystagmus showed mean frequencies were（2.0±0.33）times/s and（3.7±0.33）times/s,the mean amplitude were (3.1±0.39)mm and (3.5±0.54)mm,and the mean duration were (44.7±17.22)s and (62.0±7.22)s respectively.The nystagmus frequency difference was statistically significant, but the amplitude and the duration of the nystagmus were not significantly different. There was no obvious spontaneous nystagmus in the two groups, and there were negative results of ice water test (3 ears in the test group and 4 ears in the control group).Conclusion:Photochemical reaction can induce the ischemic state of the vestibule system in guinea pig, and produce an acute vestibular dysfunction, and ice water test shows that the frequency of nystagmus is reduced.

[Serum procalcitonin in patients with pulmonary infection and central nervous system injury]

Objective: To evaluate the influence of serum procalcitonin in the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary infection in patients with central nervous system injury. Methods: From October 2014 to February 2017, a retrospective study was performed. A total of 1 852 patients were screened in Department of Intensive Care Unite, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University.Among them, 173 patients were identified with different kinds of infection. Finally, a total of 42 patients with pulmonary infection were enrolled. The clinical data of patients with pulmonary infection and central nervous system (CNS) injury was collected. A univariate and multivariate regression analysis was performed to study the correlation of serum procalcitonin (PCT) with clinical symptoms and signs of the pulmonary infection, body temperature(T), white blood cell count (WBC), percentage of neutrophils (NEU) and the severity of the pulmonary infection (CPIS). The relationship of serum PCT with type of CNS injury, GCS, and exogenous glucocorticoid was further studied. Results: During the period of pulmonary infection, the peak PCT was 0.83 (0.29, 2.79) μg/L and the CPIS was 5.50 (5.00, 7.00). In 9 of 42 patients, the peak PCT was less than 0.25 μg/L. In 7 of 42 patients, the peak PCT was ranged from 0.25 to 0.5 μg/L. In 12 of 42 patients, PCT was ranged from 0.5 to 2 μg/L. Only 10 patients had a PCT 2-10 μg/L and 4 patients had a PCT more than 10 μg/L. There is no correlation between serum PCT and body temperature, white blood cell, percentage of neutrophils and CPIS. There was no significant differences in patients with PCT<0.5 or ≥0.5 μg/L regarding the body temperature, white blood cell, percentage of neutrophils and CPIS. However, serum PCT in patients with pulmonary infection had independent correlation with the post CNS injury day (β=0.17, 95% CI (0.02, 0.32), P<0.05). The serum PCT was 1.26 (0.47, 2.7) μg/L and 29.41% patients with a PCT less than 0.5 μg/L within 3 days post CNS injury. Serum PCT level was 0.23 (0.16, 0.39) μg/L, and 77.78% patients with a PCT less than 0.5 μg/L at day 4 to day 7 post-injury. The PCT level was 0.52 (0.33, 1.12) μg/L, and 44.44% patients with a PCT less than 0.5 μg/L at day 8 to day 14. The PCT was 3.26 (2.07, 12.40) μg/L, and no patient with a PCT less than 0.5 μg/L after day 15 post-injury. There were no significant relationship found between serum PCT level and type of the disease and surgery, GCS, and use of exogenous glucocorticoid. Conclusions: Serum PCT had no significant increase and was not able to be used in guiding the antibiotics use in patients with CNS injury and pulmonary infection.

Chronic joint pain and handgrip strength correlates with osteoporosis in mid-life women: a Singaporean cohort

This study aimed to identify novel correlates which may relate to low bone mass at lumbar spine in mid-life Asian women. The possibility of developing a prediction model for osteoporosis (OP) was explored which resulted in a risk assessment tool that performed better than currently available tools.

INTRODUCTION

In order to identify novel correlates associated with low spinal bone mineral density (BMD) in mid-life women, we examined a large number of lifestyle and medical and performance measurements and developed a prediction model for triage to BMD scanning.

METHODS

Women (n = 512) aged 45-69 years (mean 57.0 ± 6.3) attending gynecology clinics for "well woman" visits were recruited for this cross-sectional study from 2014 to 2015. We assessed symptoms, medical history, anthropometry, and physical performance. Stepwise multinomial logistic regressions were performed to examine significant associated covariates for pre-specified outcomes (normal [T-score ≥ -1.0], low bone mass [T-score between -1 and -2.5], and OP [T-score ≤ -2.5] at the lumbar spine). A new screening model was developed, and its performance was compared with the OP Screening Tool for Asians (OSTA) and Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX®).

RESULTS

Spinal OP was found in 6.8%. Multivariate analysis indicated that chronic joint pain, the most common symptom reported by 37.5% of the women, was significantly associated with OP. Only age (Relative Risk Ratio [RRR] 1.63; 95%CI, 1.03-2.60), weight (RRR 0.14; 95% CI, 0.07-0.27), postmenopausal status (RRR 11.59, 95%CI, 1.15-116.73), chronic joint pain (RRR, 4.12; 95% CI, 1.53-11.07), and right handgrip strength (RRR 0.50; 95% CI, 0.31-0.80) were independently associated with spinal OP. Combining these five variables, our final model's area under curve (AUC) was significantly higher at 84% than both the OSTA [AUC; 79% (p value < 0.0231 'c' statistics)] and FRAX® [AUC 58% (p value < 0.0001 'c' statistic)].

CONCLUSION

A novel screening tool that combines age, weight, and menopausal status with chronic joint pain and right handgrip strength more reliably predicts spinal OP in mid-life Singaporean women.

Post-treatment surveillance of thyroid cancer

An increased incidence of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) has resulted in an increased population of thyroid cancer survivors requiring ongoing disease surveillance. Our institution's risk-adapted surveillance strategy is based on a contemporary understanding of disease biology, guided by analysis of prognostic factors and balanced application of available surveillance modalities. The goal of this strategy is to detect recurrent disease early, identify patients who would benefit from further treatment and reduce over investigation of low-risk patients. This article describes our center's risk-stratified approach to the postoperative surveillance of patients with differentiated thyroid cancer with reference to the recent 2015 American Thyroid Association management guidelines.

[Effect of AÇaí (Euterpe oleracea) on lipid metabolism, immune substances and endocrine hormone in rats with deficiency-heat and deficiency-cold syndrome]

To study the effects of AÇaí(Euterpe oleracea) on lipid metabolism, immune substances and endocrine hormone level in rats with deficiency-heat and deficiency-cold syndrome. SD rats were divided into blank control group, deficiency-heat model group, deficiency-heat & Phellodendri Cortex group, deficiency-heat & AÇaí high dose and low dose groups, deficiency-cold model group, deficiency-cold & Cinnamomi Cortex group, deficiency-cold & AÇaí high dose and low dose groups. The rats received intramuscular injection of dexamethasone sodium phosphate (0.35 mg) or hydrocortisone sodium succinate (20 mg) for 21 days to set up deficiency-heat models and deficiency-cold models. Then the changes in fatmetabolism levels (FFA, LPL, HL) and immune indexes (IgG, IgM, C3 and C4) were detected by colorimeter; and the levels of endocrine hormone indexes (CORT, E2 and T) were detected by radioimmunoassay. The levels of FFA, LPL and HL in serum were reduced (P<0.01 or P<0.001); levels of IgG, IgM and C3 in serum were increased (P<0.05 or P<0.001); level of CORT in serum was increased (P<0.05) and the level of E2, E2/T in serum were reduced in the AÇaí high dose group (P<0.05). The effect of high dose AÇaí on fat metabolism was not obvious in deficiency-cold models, but the levels of IgG, IgM, C3 and CORT in serum were increased (P<0.05 or P<0.001). AÇaí was showed the same effect trend with Phellodendri Cortex in adjusting the levels of deficiency-heat rats; but unlike Cinnamomi Cortex, AÇaí was showed no obvious effect in adjusting the levels of deficiency-cold rats. In this experiment, homogeneous comparison and heterogeneous disproof were used to verify the cold nature of Çaí.

Anti-site-induced diverse diluted magnetism in LiMgPdSb-type CoMnTiSi alloy

The effect of three kinds of anti-site disorder to electronic structure and magnetic properties of the LiMgPdSb-type CoMnTiSi alloy are investigated. It was found the Mn-Ti anti-site disorder can induce the diluted magnetism in CoMnTiSi matrix. The magnetic structure has an oscillation between the ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic states with the different degree of Mn-Ti anti-site disorder. Two novel characteristics: the diluted antiferromagnetic half-metallicity and the diluted zero-gap half-metallity are found in the different degree range of the Mn-Ti anti-site disorder. The Co-Mn and Co-Ti anti-site disorder have little effect on the magnetic properties. The width of energy gap and the intensity of DOS at the Fermi level can be adjusted by the degree of Co-Mn or Co-Ti anti-site disorder. The independent control to the carrier concentration and magnetization can be realized by introducing the different anti-site disorder.

Protective effects of paeoniflorin and albiflorin on chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression in mice

Paeonia lactiflora root (baishao in Chinese) is a commonly used herb in traditional Chinese medicines (TCM). Two isomers, paeoniflorin (PF) and albiflorin (AF), are isolated from P. lactiflora. The present study aimed to investigate the protective effects of PF and AF on myelosuppression induced by chemotherapy in mice and to explore the underlying mechanisms. The mouse myelosuppression model was established by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of cyclophosphamide (CP, 200 mg·kg(-1)). The blood cell counts were performed. The thymus index and spleen index were also determined and bone morrow histological examination was performed. The levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in serum and colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) in plasma were measured by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISA) and the serum levels of interleukin-3 (IL-3), granulocyte-macrophagecolony-stimulatingfactor (GM-CSF), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured by radioimmunoassay (RIA). The levels of mRNA expression protein of IL-3, GM-CSF and G-CSF in spleen and bone marrow cells were determined respectively. PF and AF significantly increased the white blood cell (WBC) counts and reversed the atrophy of thymus. They also increased the serum levels of GM-CSF and IL-3 and the plasma level of G-CSF and reduced the level of TNF-α in serum. PF enhanced the mRNA level of IL-3 and AF enhanced the mRNA levels of GM-CSF and G-CSF in the spleen. PF and AF both increased the protein levels of GM-CSF and G-CSF in bone marrow cells. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that PF and AF promoted the recovery of bone marrow hemopoietic function in the mouse myelosuppression model.

Blood pressure-to-height ratio as a screening indicator of elevated blood pressure among children and adolescents in Chongqing, China

We aimed to evaluate the performance of blood pressure-to-height ratio (BPHR) and establish their optimal thresholds for elevated blood pressure (BP) among children aged 6 to 17 years in Chongqing, China. Data were collected from 11 029 children and adolescents aged 6-17 years in 12 schools in Chongqing according to multistage stratified cluster sampling method. The gold standard for elevated BP was defined as systolic blood pressure (SBP) and/or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) ⩾95th percentile for gender, age and height. The diagnostic performance of systolic BPHR (SBPHR) and diastolic BPHR (DBPHR) to screen for elevated BP was evaluated through receiver-operating characteristic curves (including the area under the curve (AUC) and its 95% confidence interval, sensitivity and specificity). The prevalence of elevated BP in children and adolescents in Chongqing was 10.36% by SBP and/or DBP ⩾95th percentile for gender, age and height. The optimal thresholds of SBPHR/DBPHR for identifying elevated BP were 0.86/0.58 for boys and 0.85/0.57 for girls among children aged 6 to 8 years, 0.81/0.53 for boys and 0.80/0.52 for girls among children aged 9 to 11 years and 0.71/0.45 for boys and 0.72/0.47 for girls among adolescents aged 12-17 years, respectively. Across gender and the specified age groups, AUC ranged from 0.82 to 0.88, sensitivity were above 0.94 and the specificities were over 0.7. The positive predictive values ranged from 0.30 to 0.38 and the negative predictive values were ⩾0.99. BPHR, with uniform values across broad age groups (6-8, 9-11 and 12-17 years) for boys and for girls is a simple indicator to screen elevated BP in children and adolescents in Chongqing.

[Effect of Acaí (Euterpe oleracea) on biological expression characteristics of deficiency-heat and deficiency-cold rats]

To study the effects of Acaí on biological expression characteristics in rats with deficiency-heat and deficiency-cold syndromes, SD rats were divided into blank group, deficiency-heat model group, deficiency-heat+Phellodendri Chinensis Cortex group, deficiency-heat+Acaí high dose and low dose groups, deficiency-cold model group, deficiency-cold+Cinnamomi Cortex group, deficiency-cold+Acaí high dose and low dose groups. The rats were treated with intramuscular injection of hydrocortisone (20 mg•kg⁻¹) or dexamethasone sodium phosphate (0.35 mg•kg⁻¹) for 21 days to set up deficiency-heat model and deficiency-cold models. The levels of cAMP, cGMP, T3, T4 and rT3 were detected by radioimmunoassay. The levels of TP, UA, TC, TG and ALB were detected by colorimetry. The level of cAMP, cAMP/cGMP in serum were reduced in Acaí high dose group (P<0.05, P<0.001). The levels of T3, T4 and rT3 were significantly reduced in the Acaí high dose group (P<0.01, P<0.001, P<0.05). The levels of TP, UA, TC, TG and ALB were significantly reduced in the Acaí high dose group (P<0.001, P<0.05, P<0.05, P<0.05, P<0.01). However, Acaí had no obvious effects on deficiency-cold models. Acaí showed the same effect with Phellodendri Chinensis Cortex in adjusting the levels of deficiency-heat rats; but unlike Cinnamomi Cortex, Acaí showed no obvious effects in adjusting the levels of deficiency-cold rats.

Prediction of protein subcellular multisite localization using a new feature extraction method

A basic problem of proteomics is identifying the subcellular locations of a protein. One factor making the problem more complicated is that some proteins may simultaneously exist in two or more than two subcellular locations. To improve multisite prediction quality, it is necessary to use effective feature extraction methods. Here, we developed a new feature extraction method based on the pK value and frequencies of amino acids to represent a protein as a real values vector. Using this novel feature extraction method, the multi-label k-nearest neighbors (ML-KNN) algorithm and setting different weights into different attributes' ML-KNN, known as wML-KNN, were employed to predict multiplex protein subcellular locations. The best overall accuracy rate on dataset S1 from the predictor of Virus-mPLoc was 59.92 and 86.04% on dataset S2 from Gpos-mPLoc, respectively.

[Topical voriconazole as an effective treatment for fungal keratitis]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of topical voriconazole in patients with fungal keratitis caused by different fungal species.

METHODS

Interventional case series. Eighty-four patients aged 18 years or older from central China with confirmed fungal keratitis who presented at the outpatient department of Henan Eye Institute were enrolled in the study. The patients underwent in vivo confocal scanning laser microscopy examination, coneal scraping and microscopic examination and fungal culture, and then received topical voriconazole, closed curative effects were conducted. The sensitivity of three different diagnostic techniques, spectrum of the fungi, cure rate for fungal corneal infection related to each species were analyzed.

RESULTS

In our study, 84 patients were diagnosed with fungal keratitis based on clinical symptoms, and results of at least one of the examinations of in vivo confocal scanning laser microscopy, conventional smear, and corneal scraping culture and the sensitivity were 92.85%(78/84), 85.71%(72/84), 84.52%(71/84)respectively. In viro confocal scanning laser microscopy. Successful management was achieved in 83.33% of the patients. Topical voriconazole treatment failed in 14 patients(16.67%), who required surgical treatment. In 36 patients with Fusarium corneal infections, 26(72.22%)were successfully treated with topical voriconazole; however, in 18 patients with Aspergillus corneal infections and 7 patients with Alternaria corneal infections, 94.44% and 100.00% of them were successfully treated, respectively. In a case-based dynamic tracking study, in vivo confocal microscopy provided real-time dynamic detection of surviving hyphae. The existence of hyphae was(38.35±17.32)days for Fusarium,(25.00±16.11)days for Aspergillus,(21.00±4.36)days for Alternaria, and(41.50±31.68)days for the focus in the deep stroma. The duration of treatment was similar for all four groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Topical application of voriconazole is on effective method for the freatment of fungal keratitis Topical voriconazole is highly effective for fungal keratitis caused by Alternaria spp. and Aspergillus, however, for Fusarium, it is relatively low effective. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2016, 52: 657-662).

Complete mitochondrial genome of the Liuyang black goat and its phylogenetic relationship with other Caprinae

In this study, the complete mitochondrial genome sequence of the Liuyang black goat was investigated, and phylogenetic relationships between the Liuyang black goat and other species of Caprinae were analyzed. The total length of the mitochondrial genome was 16,715 bp, which consisted of 33.50% A, 27.27% T, 25.98% C, and 13.25% G. The mitochondrial genome contained a major non-coding control region (D-loop region), two ribosomal RNA genes, 13 protein-coding genes, and 22 transfer RNA genes. Neighbor-joining and maximum-parsimony trees of Caprinae constructed using 13 mitochondrial protein-coding genes showed that the Liuyang black goat is phylogenetically closest to Hemitragus jemlahicus (the Himalayan tahr) and Blue sheep to form clade A. Tibetan antelopes clustered separately in clade B and so did sheep in clade C.

[Characteristics of HIV infections among over 50-year-olds population in China]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the characteristics on demographical, spatial distribution and transmission mode of HIV infections among 50-year-old population.

METHODS

Related information on demography, spatial distribution, high risk behavioral and history of HIV infections among 50-year-old population were collected and analyzed. Possible time of infection based on their first CD4 testing results right after the HIV diagnoses, was estimated.

RESULTS

Since 2008, the number of new HIV/AIDS cases among the over-50-year-olds was reported increasing annually. The number of aged 50 and above in 2014 was 4.2 times than the number in 2008. 50-year-old or older population were infected mainly through heterosexual behavior (88.0%). Among these cases, 83.9% self-reported as having histories on extramarital sex intercourse and the number was increasing yearly. Among male cases who admitted as having heterosexual experience, 95.1% of them reported as having histories of extramarital sex intercourse while 53.4% of the female cases reported as having the same experiences. 46.6% of spouses of the females or with fixed partners were HIV positive. Through estimating the time of infection and the time interval between infection and diagnosis, we found that the proportion was 15.5%, from infection to diagnosis as 3 years among the 50 and older age groups, but the proportion of 8 years from infection to diagnosis was 43.6%. We estimated that 66.5% of the new HIV cases who were at age 50 and over, were infected when they were at that age span. The average time from infection and being tested was (6.8 ± 2.7) years.

CONCLUSION

The increasing number of being diagnosed on HIV among the 50-year-olds population might be related to both high risk exposure and belated diagnoses among this population, calling for the necessity of deriving the sources of HIV infection and tailoring the HIV prevention strategies in this population.

[Analysis on the ' late diagnosis' (LD) phenomena among newly identified HIV/AIDS cases in China, 2010-2014]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the 'late diagnoses' (LD) phenomena among newly identified HIV/AIDS cases in China from 2010 to 2014.

METHODS

Newly identified HIV/AIDS cases from 2010 to 2014 were selected from the National HIV/AIDS comprehensive information system. Rates related to LD were stratified according to the demographic indicators.

RESULTS

From 2010 to 2014, numbers of newly identified HIV/AIDS cases were reported as 64 338, 74 517, 82 434, 90 119 and 103 501 in China. Among them, proportions of LD were 41.8%, 42.1%, 38.1%, 36.8% and 35.5% respectively. LD proportions appeared high in medical settings, with the minimum proportion as 45% (χ(2)=5 174,P<0.000 1). Proportion of LD among patients who were heterosexually transmitted appeared over 40%, which was significantly higher than that seen among men who have sex with men or injecting drug users (χ(2)=3 066,P<0.000 1). Proportion of LD showed more than 39% in those newly identified cases, and was seen higher in permanent residents than in floating population (less than 30%) (χ(2)=5 265,P<0.000 1).

CONCLUSION

With the expansion testing coverage on HIV, newly identified HIV/AIDS increased year by year. Among the newly identified cases, late diagnosis was high, especially in medical institutions. More effective strategies and measures are needed to promote the early detection of HIV in high risk population.

Association of vitamin D receptor gene polymorphisms with end-stage renal disease and the development of high-turnover renal osteodystrophy in a Chinese population

Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; TaqI and ApaI) in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene have been identified as risk factors for the progression of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The purpose of our study was to confirm the reported association of these two SNPs with ESRD risk and progression of renal osteodystrophy in a Chinese Han population. A total of 452 ESRD patients and 904 matched-pair controls (based on age, gender, and body mass index) were included. Identification of VDR gene polymorphisms was performed using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method with TaqI and ApaI restriction enzymes. There was no association of the TaqI polymorphism with ESRD risk. However, significant associations were seen between ApaI (rs7975232) polymorphism and ESRD risk in the heterozygote model (AC/ AA; P = 0.002; OR = 1.4, 95%CI = 1.14-1.83), homozygote model (CC/AA; P = 0.007; OR = 1.8, 95%CI = 1.17-2.85) genotypes for rs7975232, allelic model (P < 0.001; OR = 1.4, 95%CI = 1.15-1.64), dominant model (P = 0.001; OR = 1.5, 95%CI = 1.19-1.87), and recessive model (P = 0.046; OR = 0.6, 95%CI = 0.42-1.00) between cases and healthy controls Moreover, we found a significant correlation between the genotype and allele distribution of ApaI and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) levels, where allele C carriers have increased iPTH levels. The ApaI polymorphism in the VDR gene appears to be a susceptibility locus for ESRD in Chinese individuals, and allele C carriers may have an increased risk of high-turnover renal osteodystrophy.

Effects of nucleotide usage on the synonymous codon usage patterns of biofilm-associated genes in Haemophilus parasuis

To provide a new perspective on the evolutionary characteristics shaping the genetic diversity of Haemophilus parasuis biofilms, the relative synonymous codon usage values, codon usage bias values, effective number of codons (ENC) values, codon adaptation index (CAI) values, and the base components were calculated. Our objective was to implement a comparative analysis to evaluate the dynamic evolution of biofilm-associated genes in H. parasuis. The analysis of genetic diversity provides evidence that some biofilm-associated genes have similar genetic features. However, other genes show some variations in genetic direction. Furthermore, preferential selection of the synonymous codons and amino acids is apparent in biofilm-associated genes. Additionally, the ENC and CAI data from this study all strongly suggested that biofilm-associated genes may depend on deoptimization to adapt to environmental changes, and the mutation effect of biofilm-associated genes in H. parasuis plays an important role in shaping the genetic features. Our results reveal that the mutations of biofilm-associated genes form a set of sophisticated strategies for combating the environmental changes arising from the host cell in the evolution of H. parasuis.

[Application of the dizziness handicap inventory in the patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo]

Objective:This study was designed to observe the dizziness handicap inventory (DHI) scores in patients with BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo) before and after maneuver repositioning and aimed to discuss the values of DHI scores in the diagnosing and treatment of BPPV. Method:Charts of 72 patients with BPPV diagnosed by positioning test were reviewed. Four DHI scores were used including the total score (DHIT), the functional score (DHIF), the emotional score (DHIE), and the physical score (DHIP). We compared the pre-repositioning DHI scores and post-repositioning scores of patients, and also compared the DHI scores of patients with and without residual dizziness. Result:All of the 72 patients were underwent maneuver repositioning and recorded the DHI scores. The mean post-repositioning scores were dramatically decreased compared with pre-repositioning scores, and the difference was significant (P<0.01). The differences of the DHIP scores between the residual dizziness group and the non-residual dizziness group was not significant, while the DHIF scores, the DHIE scores and the DHIT scores between the two groups were statistically different. Conclusion:After maneuver repositioning the dizziness handicap of BPPV patients could be significantly improved. The next treatment program for residual dizziness patients after successful repositioning could be aimed at the functional and emotional dizziness.

Development of polymorphic microsatellite loci for a new fish species, Chinese sillago (Sillago sinica)

Sillago sinica is a newly identified species belonging to Sillaginidae, Perciforms, and was found along the coast of China in 2011. In the present study, 81 microsatellite loci were isolated from an enriched genomic library, and 24 positive clones containing microsatellite repeats had adequate flanking sequences for the development of PCR primers. Sixteen of these primers were monomorphic or would not amplify. Eight were polymorphic in an examined population with the number of alleles per locus ranging from 2 to 14. The number of observed and expected heterozygosities per locus varied from 0.125 to 0.958 and from 0.120 to 0.904, respectively. The polymorphism information content ranged from 0.110 to 0.721. All loci conformed to Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (P > 0.05) after Bonferroni correction. There was no significant linkage disequilibrium between the eight polymorphic loci. These results suggest that these markers may be very useful for the characterization of natural populations of this species.

[Clinical characteristics and prognosis of concurrent positive t(14; 18) and myc gene rearrangement in diffuse large B cell lymphoma]

OBJECTIVE

To study the incidence of positive t(14; 18) and myc gene rearrangement, and the clinical features and prognosis of concurrent positive t(14; 18) and myc gene rearrangement "double-hit lymphoma" (DHL) in diffuse large B cell lymphoma.

METHODS

The positive t(14; 18) and myc gene rearrangement in 106 cases of DLBCL were analyzed using interphase fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) technique. The expression of myc and bcl-2 proteins was determined by immunohistochemistry. The relationship of positive t(14; 18) and myc gene rearrangement with clinical features, pathogenesis and prognosis for the patients was analyzed. SPSS 16.0 software was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Among the 106 cases, there were 27 (25.5%) cases with positive t(14; 18) and 13 (12.3%) cases with myc gene rearrangement, and 7 cases (6.6%) of DLBCL with concurrent t(14; 18)-positive and myc gene rearrangement. A relationship was observed between positive t(14; 18) and myc gene rearrangement (P=0.019). The follow-up data showed that the 7 DHL patients were in age of 52-84 years, the International Prognostic Index (IPI) scores were 3 in two cases, 4 in four cases and 5 in one case, and the ECOG scores were 3 in all the 7 cases. Four patients had bone marrow involvement and were combined with leukemia. The survival time ranged from 0.5 to 6 months, with a median survival of 4 months. The univariate analysis showed that B symptom, Ann Arbor stage, ECOG score, LDH level, IPI score, immunophenotype, bcl-2 protein expression, myc protein expression, and myc gene rearrangement were all associated with poor prognosis (P<0.05 for all). The multivariate analysis using a COX proportional hazard model confirmed that ECOG score, bcl-2 protein expression, myc protein expression, myc gene rearrangement, and immunophenotype were independent prognostic factors affecting survival (P<0.05 for all), among them, the myc gene rearrangement was the strongest prognostic factor (OR=4.337, P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

"Double-hit" DLBCL is rare and can be mainly identified only by molecular detection. Perhaps positive t(14; 18) and myc gene rearrangement play concurrent role in its "double-hit" pathogenesis. DHL are highly invasive, and most of DHL patients have poor prognosis. Further studies of larger case number are required to determine the pathologic features and the therapeutic strategy of this subgroup.

Pioglitazone up-regulates long non-coding RNA MEG3 to protect endothelial progenitor cells via increasing HDAC7 expression in metabolic syndrome

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) maternally expressed 3 (MEG3) is expressed in endothelial cells and involved in angiogenesis and vascular function. It was proposed that MEG3 participates in the process of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) functions in metabolic syndrome (MetS). In this study, the circulating EPCs number and function were decreased in MetS subjects. The MEG3 expression was expressed at a lower level and microRNA-140-5p (miR-140-5p) was expressed at a higher level in circulating EPCs of subjects with MetS. Pioglitazone reversed the alterations of EPCs function and the expression levels of MEG3 and miR-140-5p in EPCs. In bone marrow-derived EPCs exposed to palmitate, down-regulation of miR-140-5p canceled the increase of MEG3 expression level induced by Pioglitazone. Overexpression of MEG3 resulted in the down-regulation of miR-140-5p. The luciferase reporter assay and RIP assay showed that MEG3 targeted miR-140-5p. In addition, the HDAC7 expression levels were regulated by miR-140-5p and MEG3. These findings demonstrated that Pioglitazone up-regulated MEG3 expression to protect EPCs via decreasing miR-140-5p expression and increasing HDAC7 expression in MetS, which may be a novel therapeutic target for preventing and treating MetS.

Association between RAGE gene polymorphisms and ulcerative colitis susceptibility: a case-control study in a Chinese Han population

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an immune-related disease with genetic predisposition. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of three polymorphisms in the receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) gene with UC risk in a Chinese population. This case-control study involved 72 UC patients and 479 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. Genotyping was performed using the polymerase chain reaction-ligase detection reaction method. Data were analyzed using the Haplo.stats program. There were no significant differences between patients and controls in the allele/genotype distributions of rs1800624 (P(allele)= 0.11; Pgenotype = 0.20), rs1800625 (P(allele) = 0.16; Pgenotype = 0.11), or rs2070600 (P(allele) = 0.37; Pgenotype = 0.65). In addition, no positive haplotypes were identified. To the best of our knowledge, the current study describes polymorphisms of RAGE in Chinese UC for the first time. We found no association between RAGE polymorphisms and the development of UC in the Chinese population.

Molecular characterization, tissue expression profile, and SNP analysis of porcine SLC13A5

Solute carrier family 13 (sodium-dependent citrate transporter member 5, SLC13A5) gene has been recently found to play an important role in intramuscular fat content in pigs. In this study, the full-length cDNA of porcine SLC13A5 was obtained from the longissimus dorsi muscle of Shaziling pigs, using the rapid amplification of cDNA ends technique. Full-length porcine SLC13A5 cDNA was 2118 bp, with a 1665-bp open reading frame encoding 554 amino acids. The porcine SLC13A5 protein was analyzed using bioinformatic methodology, and found to include 18 potential phosphorylation sites (including six serine, nine threonine, and three tyrosine) and eight putative transmembrane domains. One single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) site, A251G, was identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment length polymorphism and the associations of this SNP with age at 100 kg and corrected back fat thickness were found to be not significant. Expression of SLC13A5 was evaluated in ten tissues from 25-day-old full-sib Yorkshire and Shaziling piglets (both N = 3), using quantitative PCR analysis. Expression levels of SLC13A5 differed significantly between the breeds in cecum, liver and crureus muscle. In each breed, gene expression levels were significantly different in longissimus dorsi muscle, compared to the nine other tissues. This study has laid the foundation for further investigations of the molecular mechanisms of SLC13A5 in pigs.

Outcomes for patients with papillary thyroid cancer who do not undergo prophylactic central neck dissection

BACKGROUND

The role of prophylactic central neck dissection (CND) in the management of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is controversial. This report describes outcomes of an observational approach in patients without clinical evidence of nodal disease in PTC.

METHODS

All patients who had surgery between 1986 and 2010 without CND for PTC were identified. All patients had careful clinical assessment of the central neck during preoperative and perioperative evaluation, with any suspicious nodal tissue excised for analysis. The cohort included patients in whom lymph nodes had been removed, but no patient had undergone a formal neck dissection. Recurrence-free survival (RFS), central neck RFS and disease-specific survival (DSS) were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Of 1798 patients, 397 (22.1 per cent) were men, 1088 (60.5 per cent) were aged 45 years or more, and 539 (30.0 per cent) had pT3 or pT4 disease. Some 742 patients (41.3 per cent) received adjuvant treatment with radioactive iodine. At a median follow-up of 46 months the 5-year DSS rate was 100 per cent. Five-year RFS and central neck RFS rates were 96.6 and 99.1 per cent respectively.

CONCLUSION

Observation of the central neck is safe and should be recommended for all patients with PTC considered before and during surgery to be free of central neck metastasis.

Losartan improves the distribution and efficacy of doxorubicin in CT26 tumor

OBJECTIVE

The effectiveness of chemotherapeutic agents is impaired by limited delivery of chemotherapeutic agents to the tumor cells. Improving drug penetration in tumor tissues is very important. We tested whether losartan, a selective antagonist against type 1 angiotensin II receptors (AT1R) with noted antifibrotic activity, can enhance the penetration and efficacy of doxorubicin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

BALB/C mice, which implanted with CT26 tumor cells, were divided into four groups: control, doxorubicin alone, losartan alone and doxorubicin + losartan combination groups. At day 0, the losartan alone and doxorubicin + losartan combination groups received losartan; and at day 8, the doxorubicin alone and doxorubicin + losartan combination groups received doxorubicin i.v. Tumor growth and intratumoral distribution of doxorubicin were evaluated. The mechanism underlying the enhanced anti-tumor effect of the combination of doxorubicin and losartan was investigated by immunohistochemical analysis.

RESULTS

Treatment with losartan alone did not suppress tumor growth; In contrast, treatment with doxorubicin alone decreased tumor growth; losartan and doxorubicin were administered in combination, had a synergistic effect that the tumor growth was much more inhibited. The decreased proliferation as indicated by down-regulation of Ki67, and increased apoptosis as indicated by TUNEL and caspase-3 staining. The expression of tumor suppressor gene P53 increased in doxorubicin + losartan combination groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Losartan can increase the therapeutic effectiveness of doxorubicin, yielding more great antitumor benefit. This study provided a rationale for initiating clinical trials using losartan in combination with chemotherapeutic agents to increase their therapeutic effectiveness.

The distribution of Salmonella enterica serovars and subtypes in surface water from five agricultural regions across Canada

Serovar prevalence of the zoonotic pathogen, Salmonella enterica, was compared among 1624 surface water samples collected previously from five different Canadian agricultural watersheds over multiple years. Phagetyping, pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), and antimicrobial resistance subtyping assays were performed on serovars Enteritidis, Typhimurium, and Heidelberg. Serovars and subtypes from surface water were compared with those from animal feces, human sewage, and serovars reported to cause salmonellosis in Canadians. Sixty-five different serovars were identified in surface water; only 32% of these were isolated from multiple watersheds. Eleven of the 13 serovars most commonly reported to cause salmonellosis in Canadians were identified in surface water; isolates of these serovars constituted >40% of the total isolates. Common phagetypes and PFGE subtypes of serovars associated with illness in humans such as S. Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium were also isolated from surface water and animal feces. Antimicrobial resistance was generally low, but was highest among S. Typhimurium. Monitoring of these rivers helps to identify vulnerable areas of a watershed and, despite a relatively low prevalence of S. enterica overall, serovars observed in surface water are an indication of the levels of specific S. enterica serovars present in humans and animals.

[Determination of β-sitosterol and total sterols content and antioxidant activity of oil in acai (Euterpe oleracea)]

In order to establish a method for the determination of the sterols of the oil in the freeze-dried acai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) and to evaluate its antioxidant activities, a saponification/extraction procedure and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis method were developed and validated for the analysis of phytosterols in PEE (Petroleum ether extract). Separation was achieved on a Purosper STAR LP C18 column with a binary, gradient solvent system of acetonitrile and isopropanol. Evaporative light scattering detection (ELSD) was used to quantify β-sitosterol and the total sterols. Peak identification was verified by retention times and spikes with external standards. Standard curves were constructed (r = 0.999 2) to allow for sample quantification. Recovery of the saponification and extraction was demonstrated via analysis of spiked samples. The highest content of total sterols is β-sitosterol. The antioxidant activities of the extracts were evaluated using the total oxyradical scavenging capacity assay (TOSC assay). The result showed that the PEE exhibited significant antioxidant properties, sample concentration and the antioxidant capacity had a certain relevance.

Search for a light sterile neutrino at Daya Bay

A search for light sterile neutrino mixing was performed with the first 217 days of data from the Daya Bay Reactor Antineutrino Experiment. The experiment's unique configuration of multiple baselines from six 2.9 GW(th) nuclear reactors to six antineutrino detectors deployed in two near (effective baselines 512 m and 561 m) and one far (1579 m) underground experimental halls makes it possible to test for oscillations to a fourth (sterile) neutrino in the 10(-3) eV(2)<|Δm(41)(2) |< 0.3 eV(2) range. The relative spectral distortion due to the disappearance of electron antineutrinos was found to be consistent with that of the three-flavor oscillation model. The derived limits on sin(2) 2θ(14) cover the 10(-3) eV(2) ≲ |Δm(41)(2)| ≲ 0.1 eV(2) region, which was largely unexplored.

Development and characterization of single nucleotide polymorphism markers in Camellia sinensis (Theaceae)

Tea is the second most popular non-alcoholic beverage in the world. In recent years, several molecular markers have been used in genetic studies of the tea plant. Yet, only a few single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been reported. Here, we identified 818 putative SNPs from expressed sequence tag (EST) databases for the tea plant, which produced a frequency of 1 SNP/170 bp. A direct sequencing method was then used to verify 253 putative SNPs in genome DNA of 17 tea varieties. Fifty (20%) candidate and 299 new SNPs were identified. The haplotype polymorphism and nucleotide diversity of these markers ranged from 0 to 0.960 and 0 to 1.797%, respectively. Using these SNPs, the 17 varieties were classified into 2 groups by cluster analysis. The results indicate that Camellia sinensis-derived ESTs provide a valuable resource for SNP discovery. Furthermore, the abundance of SNPs in tea varieties is anticipated to generate the development of associated genetic studies, in addition to enhancing tea plant-breeding programs.

Spectral measurement of electron antineutrino oscillation amplitude and frequency at Daya Bay

A measurement of the energy dependence of antineutrino disappearance at the Daya Bay reactor neutrino experiment is reported. Electron antineutrinos (ν¯(e)) from six 2.9  GW(th) reactors were detected with six detectors deployed in two near (effective baselines 512 and 561 m) and one far (1579 m) underground experimental halls. Using 217 days of data, 41 589 (203 809 and 92 912) antineutrino candidates were detected in the far hall (near halls). An improved measurement of the oscillation amplitude sin(2)2θ(13)=0.090(-0.009)(+0.008) and the first direct measurement of the ν¯(e) mass-squared difference |Δm(ee)2|=(2.59(-0.20)(+0.19))×10(-3)  eV2 is obtained using the observed ν¯(e) rates and energy spectra in a three-neutrino framework. This value of |Δm(ee)2| is consistent with |Δm(μμ)2| measured by muon neutrino disappearance, supporting the three-flavor oscillation model.

Bacterial diversity in antibiotic wastewater treatment

The bacterial diversity of an antibiotic industrial wastewater treatment system was analyzed to provide the information required for further optimization of this process and for identification of bacterial strains that perform improved degradation of antibiotic industrial wastewater. The total bacterial DNA of samples collected at three stages (aeration, precipitation, and idle) during the sequencing batch reactor (SBR) process were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE) of the 16 s rDNA V3 regions. Community analysis was conducted in terms of the richness value (S), the dominance degree and the Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H). Rich bacterial diversity was apparent in the aeration stage of the SBR process, and the number of bands in the aeration stage was more abundant than that in the precipitation and idle stages. The DGGE analysis showed 15 bands, six of which were uncultured bacteria, and included one anaerobic and five aerobic bacteria. The microbial community in the aeration stage was the most complex of the whole SBR process, while the dominant bacteria differed in each reaction stage. These results demonstrate the cyclical dynamic changes in the bacterial population during the SBR process for the treatment of antibiotic industrial wastewater.

A new technology for separation and recovery of materials from waste printed circuit boards by dissolving bromine epoxy resins using ionic liquid

Recovery of valuable materials from waste printed circuit boards (WPCBs) is quite difficult because WPCBs is a heterogeneous mixture of polymer materials, glass fibers, and metals. In this study, WPCBs was treated using ionic liquid (1-ethyl-3-methylimizadolium tetrafluoroborate [EMIM+][BF4-]). Experimental results showed that the separation of the solders went to completion, and electronic components (ECs) were removed in WPCBs when [EMIM+][BF4-] solution containing WPCBs was heated to 240 °C. Meanwhile, metallographic observations verified that the WPCBs had an initial delamination. When the temperature increased to 260 °C, the separation of the WPCBs went to completion, and coppers and glass fibers were obtained. The used [EMIM+][BF4-] was treated by water to generate a solid-liquid suspension, which was separated completely to obtain solid residues by filtration. Thermal analyses combined with infrared ray spectra (IR) observed that the solid residues were bromine epoxy resins. NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) showed that hydrogen bond played an important role for [EMIM+][BF4-] dissolving bromine epoxy resins. This clean and non-polluting technology offers a new way to recycle valuable materials from WPCBs and prevent environmental pollution from WPCBs effectively.

Phylogeny of 16S rRNA and nifH genes and regulation of nitrogenase activity by oxygen and ammonium in the genus Paenibacillus

All Paenibacillus 16S rDNA sequences, except for that of Paenibacillus massiliensis T7, formed a coherent cluster, distinct from Gram-positive nitrogen-fixing Clostridium pasteurianum and Heliobacterium chlorum. All Paenibacillus NifH sequences formed two main clusters. Cluster I encompassing the NifH sequences from most of members of Paenibacillus spp., such as Paenibacillus azotofixans NifH1 and NifH2, Paenibacillus polymyxa and Paenibacillus macerans. Cluster II including only P. azotofixans NifH3. Curiously, three copies of nifH genes of Paenibacillus sabine T27 clustered within P. azotofixans cluster I (NifH1 and NifH2). The effect of O2 and ammonium on nitrogenase activity was studied with 14 different nitrogen-fixing Paenibacillus strains. The optimal oxygen concentration level for all Paenibacillus strains is in the 0 to 0.05% range, similar to that for Klebsiella pneumoniae. In all Paenibacillus strains, the highest nitrogenase activity is obtained in the condition of 0-0.1 mM NH4Cl and the increase of NH4CI from 0.1 to 5 mM caused a rapid inhibition of nitrogenase activity. However, the inhibition was reversible in the presence of 200 mM NH4Cl in some Paenibacillus strains. It is the first time to use almost all of the recognized nitrogen-fixing Paenibacilus spp. to investigate the phylogeny of 16S rRNA and nifH genes. The data that the inhibition of O2 and ammonium on nitrogenase acitivity will provide a base for studying the molecular regulatory mechanism of nitrogen fixation in the genus Paenibacillus.

Treatment of waste printed circuit board by green solvent using ionic liquid

Recycling of waste printed circuit boards (WPCBs) is an important subject not only for the protection of environment but also for the recovery of valuable materials. A feasibility study was conducted to dissolve bromine epoxy resins of WPCBs using ionic liquid (IL) of 1-ethyl-3-methylimizadolium tetrafluoroborate [EMIM(+)][BF(4)(-)] (nonaqueous green solvent) for recovering copper foils and glass fibers. Experimental results indicated that the initial delamination had seen from the cross-section of the WPCBs by mean of metallographic microscope and digital camera when WPCBs were heated in [EMIM(+)][BF(4)(-)] at 240°C for a duration of 30 min. When temperature was increased to 260°C for a duration of 10 min, the bromine epoxy resins of WPCBs were throughout dissolved into [EMIM(+)][BF(4)(-)] and the separations of copper foils and glass fibers from WPCBs were completed. This clean and non-polluting technology offers a new way to recycle valuable materials from WPCBs and prevent the environmental pollution of WPCBs effectively.