Discovery of New Isotopes ^{160}Os and ^{156}W: Revealing Enhanced Stability of the N=82 Shell Closure on the Neutron-Deficient Side

Using the fusion-evaporation reaction ^{106}Cd(^{58}Ni,4n)^{160}Os and the gas-filled recoil separator SHANS, two new isotopes _{76}^{160}Os and _{74}^{156}W have been identified. The α decay of ^{160}Os, measured with an α-particle energy of 7080(26) keV and a half-life of 201_{-37}^{+58}  μs, is assigned to originate from the ground state. The daughter nucleus ^{156}W is a β^{+} emitter with a half-life of 291_{-61}^{+86}  ms. The newly measured α-decay data allow us to derive α-decay reduced widths (δ^{2}) for the N=84 isotones up to osmium (Z=76), which are found to decrease with increasing atomic number above Z=68. The reduction of δ^{2} is interpreted as evidence for the strengthening of the N=82 shell closure toward the proton drip line, supported by the increase of the neutron-shell gaps predicted in theoretical models.

[Construction of natural population cohort on telephone follow-up management quality control system and discussion regarding critical issues by REDCap system]

With completing a baseline survey of a large natural population cohort, conducting regular follow-up has become a key factor in further improving the quality of cohort construction and ensuring its sustainable development. Typical cohort follow-up methods include repeat surveys, routine monitoring, and community-oriented surveillance. However, in practical applications, there are often issues such as high costs, difficulty, and high error rates. Telephone follow-up is an important supplementary method to the methods mentioned above, as it has the characteristics of low cost, fast response, and high quality. However, the with difficult organization, quality control is challenging, response rates are low, and management levels vary widely, which limits its widespread use in large-scale population cohort studies. Given the above problems, this study draws on customer relationship management based on the actual needs of the China Northwest Cohort follow-up. It relies on the REDCap electronic data collection platform to build a telephone follow-up management and quality control system. Targeted solutions are provided for key issues in telephone follow-up implementation, including organizational structure, project management, data collection, and process quality control, to improve the quality control level of telephone follow-up comprehensively and thereby enhance the quality and efficiency of follow-up. We hope to provide standardized follow-up programs and efficient quality control tools for newly established and existing cohort studies.

Anti-oxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects of Ethanol Extract from Polygala sibirica L. var megalopha Fr. on Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW264.7 Cells

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of ethanol extract of Polygala sibirica L. var megalopha Fr. (EEP) on RAW264.7 mouse macrophages.

METHODS

RAW264.7 cells were pretreated with 0-200 µg/mL EEP or vehicle for 2 h prior to exposure to 1 µg/mL lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 24 h. Nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin (PGE2) production were determined by Griess reagent and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. The mRNA levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), and IL-6 were determined using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Western blot assay was used to determine the protein expressions of iNOS, COX-2, phosphorylation of extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK1/2), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), inhibitory subunit of nuclear factor Kappa B alpha (Iκ B-α) and p38. Immunofluorescence was used to observe the nuclear expression of nuclear factor-κ B p65 (NF-κ B p65). Additionally, the anti-oxidant potential of EEP was evaluated by reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydroxyl (OH), superoxide anion (O2-) radical and nitrite scavenging activity were also measured.

RESULTS

The total polyphenol and flavonoid contents of EEP were 23.50±2.16 mg gallic acid equivalent/100 g and 43.78±3.81 mg rutin equivalent/100 g. With EEP treatment (100 and 150 µg/mL), there was a notable decrease in NO and PGE2 production induced by LPS in RAW264.7 cells by downregulation of iNOS and COX-2 mRNA and protein expressions (P<0.01 or P<0.05). Furthermore, with EEP treatment (150 µg/mL), there was a decrease in the mRNA expression levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6, as well as in the phosphorylation of ERK, JNK and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK, P<0.01 or P<0.05), by blocking the nuclear translocation of NF-κ B p65 in LPS-stimulated cells. In addition, EEP (100 and 150 µg/mL) led to an increase in the anti-oxidant enzymes activity of SOD and CAT, with a concomitant decrease in ROS production (P<0.01 or P<0.05). EEP also indicated the DPPH, OH, O2- radical and nitrite scavenging activity.

CONCLUSION

EEP inhibited inflammatory responses in activated macrophages through blocking MAPK/NF-κ B pathway and protected against oxidative stress.

[Robotic-assisted laparoscopic modified ventral onlay lingual mucosal graft in complex ureteral stricture construction: experience of eight cases]

Objective: To examine the efficacy of robot-assisted laparoscopic modified ventral onlay lingual mucosal graft for complex ureteral stricture. Methods: The clinical data of 8 patients with ureteral stricture admitted to the Department of Urology, General Hospital of Southern Theater Command from May to October 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 6 males and 2 females, aged (45.1±10.2) years (range: 34 to 64 years), body mass index (24.6±2.0) kg/m2 (range: 20.7 to 26.6 kg/m2). Five cases on the left side, 3 cases on the right side, the length of the ureteral structure was (3.1±0.7) cm (range: 2.2 to 4.5 cm). The value of preoperative serum creatinine was (113.8±22.3) μmol/L (range: 96 to 15 μmol/L). Before excising the structure segment, the titched anastomosed part of the dorsal wall of the ureter, and then the posteriorly augmented anastomotic, the remaining ventral side was augmented with a onlay lingual mucosa graft, then the omentum flap was used to wrap the reconstructed ureteral segment. The lingual mucosa graft with a length of 2.5 to 5.0 cm and a width of 1.0 to 1.5 cm was cut according to the actual structure. The surgery information of the patient, complications, and recent follow-up were recorded. Results: The operation under robot-assisted laparoscopy was performed successfully in the 8 patients without conversion to open surgery. The duration of the operation was (226.9±22.8) minutes (range: 210 to 255 minutes), estimated blood loss was (93.8±25.9) ml (range: 75 to 150 ml), the retention time of the postoperative drainage tube was (4.8±1.3) days (range: 3 to 7 days), and the duration of postoperative hospitalization was (11.1±3.6) days (range: 9 to 14 days). One week after the operation, the patient could pronounce correctly, enunciate clearly, and eat normally. Double J tubes were removed 4 to 8 weeks after the operation. The follow-up time in this group was 3 to 9 months, the follow-up patients underwent imaging and other examinations, which showed a significant improvement in hydronephrosis on the affected side, and the value of renal pelvic separation on the affected side was (1.4±0.8) cm (range: 0 to 2.3 cm). The serum creatinine value was (100.1±24.9) μmol/L (range: 76 to 155 μmol/L). Three months after the operation, the ureteroscopy showed that the ureter was smooth and the mucosa was normal. Conclusions: Robot-assisted laparoscopic ureteroplasty with a lingual mucosal graft is a safe and feasible operation for complex ureteral stricture without serious complications, which provides a surgical option for repairing ureteral stricture.

[Clinical effects of antibiotic bone cement combined with free anterolateral thigh flap in sequential treatment of diabetic foot ulcer]

Objective: To investigate the clinical effects of antibiotic bone cement combined with free anterolateral thigh flap in sequential treatment of diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) wounds. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted. From August 2018 to August 2021, 15 patients with DFU who met the inclusion criteria were admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, including 12 males and 3 females, aged 42-65 years, with a history of type 2 diabetes for 5-19 years. All the wounds of patients were complicated with local bone, muscle, or tendon defects or exposure. The wounds were covered with antibiotic bone cement after debridement in stage Ⅰ+free anterolateral thigh chimeric perforator flap (perforator flap+muscle flap) or simple free anterolateral thigh flap grafting in stage Ⅱ. The defect area of the wound after bone cement removal and debridement was 9.0 cm×5.0 cm-20.0 cm×7.0 cm, the incision area of the flap was 10.0 cm×5.0 cm-22.0 cm×7.0 cm, and the incision area of the muscle flap was 5.0 cm×3.0 cm-8.0 cm×4.0 cm. The donor sites of flaps were sutured directly. During follow-up, the situations of donor site healing and flap survival were observed. At the last follow-up, the texture and shape of the flap, the presence of new ulcers on both limbs, and the walking ability of the patient were observed. Results: During the follow-up of 8 to 21 months after operation in stage Ⅱ, the donor sites healed well with only residual linear scar; flaps in 14 patients survived completely, and the flap in 1 patient developed partial necrosis at 3 weeks after stage Ⅱ surgery, which was healed after debridement and skin grafting. At the last follow-up, the flaps were good in texture and appearance, there were no new ulcers in the affected limb or opposite limb, and the patients had no obvious impairment in daily walking function. Conclusions: To repair DFU wounds with antibiotic bone cement combined with free anterolateral thigh flap can rapidly control the infection, achieving a high survival rate of flap after operation with no obvious impairment in daily walking function of patients.

[Risk assessment of internal mammary lymph node metastasis and choice of irradiation of internal mammary lymphatic drainage area in breast cancer patients with negative internal breast lymph nodes on imaging]

Objective: To explore the independent risk factors of internal mammary lymph nodes (IMN) metastasis and the risk assessment method of IMN metastasis preoperatively in breast cancer patients with negative IMN in imaging examination, and guide the radiotherapy of IMN in patients with different risk stratification of IMN metastasis. Methods: The clinical and pathological data of 301 breast cancer patients who underwent internal mammary sentinel node biopsy(IM-SLNB) and/or IMN dissection in Shandong Cancer Hospital with negative IMN on CT and/or MRI from January 2010 to October 2019 were analyzed retrospectively. The independent risk factors were analyzed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression, and the independent risk factors of IMN metastasis were used to risk stratification. Results: Among the 301 patients, 43 patients had IMN metastasis, and the rate of IMN metastasis was 14.3%. Univariate analysis showed that vascular tumor thrombus, progesterone receptor (PR) expression, T stage and N stage were associated with IMN metastasis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that tumor located in medial quadrant, positive PR and axillary lymph node metastasis were independent risk factors for IMN metastasis. The risk of IMN metastasis was assessed according to the independent risk factors of the patients: low-risk group is including 0 risk factor, medium-risk group is including 1 risk factor, and high-risk group is including 2-3 risk factors. According to this evaluation criteria, 301 patients with breast cancer were divided into low-risk group (with 0 risk factors), medium-risk group (with 1 risk factor) and high-risk group (with 2-3 risk factors). The IMN metastasis rates were 0 (0/34), 4.3% (6/140) and 29.1% (37/127), respectively. Conclusions: The risk stratification of IMN metastasis according to three independent risk factors of IMN metastasis including tumor located in medial quadrant, positive PR and axillary lymph node metastasis in breast cancer patients can guide the radiotherapy of IMN in newly diagnosed breast cancer patients. For N1 patients, radiotherapy of IMN is strongly recommended when the primary tumor is located in the medial quadrant and/or PR positive.

[Clinical characteristics and risk factors of pericardial effusion after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in children with thalassemia major]

Objective: To investigate the characteristics, risk factors and outcomes of thalassemia major (TM) children with pericardial effusion (PE) after allo-geneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Methods: Clinical data of 446 TM children received allo-HSCT at Shenzhen Children's Hospital between January 2012 and December 2020 were analyzed retrospectively. Patients were divided into PE and non-PE group according to the occurrence of PE. Chi-square tests were used to investigate the risk factors that were associated with the development of PE. Kaplan-Meier method was used for survival analysis of the 2 groups. Results: Twenty-five out of 446 patients (5.6%) developed PE at a time of 75.0 (66.5, 112.5) days after allo-HSCT. Among these patients, 22 cases (88.0%) had PE within 6 months after allo-HSCT and 19 patients (76.0%) had PE within 100 days after allo-HSCT. The diagnoses of PE were confirmed using echocardiography. Pericardial tamponade was observed in only 1 patient, who later undergone emergency pericardiocentesis. The rest of patients received conservative managements alone. PE disappeared in all patients after treatment. Risk factors that were associated with the development of PE after allo-HSCT included the gender of patients, the type of transplantation, the number of mononuclear cells (MNC) infuse, pulmonary infection after HSCT and transplantation associated thrombotic microangiopathy (TA-TMA) (χ²=3.99, 10.20, 14.18, 36.24, 15.03, all P<0.05). In 239 patients that received haploidentical HSCT, the development of PE was associated with the gender of patients, pulmonary infection after HSCT and TA-TMA (χ²=4.48, 20.89, 12.70, all P<0.05). The overall survival rates of PE and non-PE groups were 96.0% (24/25) and 98.6% (415/421). The development of PE was not associated with the overall survival of TM children after allo-HSCT (χ²=1.73, P=0.188). Conclusions: PE mainly develop within 100 days after allo-HSCT in pediatric TM recipients. Haploidentical grafts, female gender, pulmonary infection after HSCT and TA-TMA are the main risk factors associated with PE development after transplant. However, the presence of PE don't have a significant impact on the outcomes of pediatric TM patients after allo-HSCT.

[Clinical application effects of two longitudes three transverses method in perforator location of thoracodorsal artery perforator flap and deep wound repair]

Objective: To explore the clinical application value of two longitudes three transverses method in the location of the perforator of thoracodorsal artery perforator and deep wound repair. Methods: The retrospectively observational study was conducted. From December 2018 to June 2020, 17 patients with deep wounds who were admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University met the inclusion criteria and were included in this study, including 7 males and 10 females, aged 12 to 72 years. The wound areas of patients after debridement were 7 cm×3 cm to 11 cm×7 cm. Two longitudinal lines were located through the midpoint of the armpit, the posterior superior iliac spine, and the protruding point of the sacroiliac joint, and three transverse lines were located 5, 10, and 15 cm below the midpoint of the armpit between the two longitudinal lines, i.e. two longitudes three transverses method, resulting in two trapezoidal areas. And then the thoracodorsal artery perforators in two trapezoidal areas were explored by the portable Doppler blood flow detector. On this account, a single or lobulated free thoracodorsal artery perforator flap or flap that carrying partial latissimus dorsi muscle, with an area of 7 cm×4 cm to 12 cm×8 cm was designed and harvested to repair the wound. The donor sites were all closed by suturing directly. The number and location of thoracodorsal artery perforators, and the distance from the position where the first perforator (the perforator closest to the axillary apex) exits the muscle to the lateral border of the latissimus dorsi in preoperative localization and intraoperative exploration, the diameter of thoracodorsal artery perforator measured during operation, and the flap types were recorded. The survivals of flaps and appearances of donor sites were followed up. Results: The number and location of thoracodorsal artery perforators located before operation in each patient were consistent with the results of intraoperative exploration. A total of 42 perforators were found in two trapezoidal areas, with 2 or 3 perforators each patient. The perforators were all located in two trapezoid areas, and a stable perforator (the first perforator) was located and detected in the first trapezoidal area. There were averagely 1.47 perforators in the second trapezoidal area. The position where the first perforator exits the muscle was 2.1-3.1 cm away from the lateral border of the latissimus dorsi. The diameters of thoracodorsal artery perforators were 0.4-0.6 mm. In this group, 12 cases were repaired with single thoracodorsal artery perforator flap, 3 cases with lobulated thoracodorsal artery perforator flap, and 2 cases with thoracodorsal artery perforator flap carrying partial latissimus dorsi muscle. The patients were followed up for 6 to 16 months. All the 17 flaps survived with good elasticity, blood circulation, and soft texture. Only linear scar was left in the donor area. Conclusions: The two longitudes three transverses method is helpful to locate the perforator of thoracodorsal artery perforator flap. The method is simple and reliable. The thoracodorsal artery perforator flap designed and harvested based on this method has good clinical effects in repairing deep wound, with minimal donor site damage.

New α-Emitting Isotope ^{214}U and Abnormal Enhancement of α-Particle Clustering in Lightest Uranium Isotopes

A new α-emitting isotope ^{214}U, produced by the fusion-evaporation reaction ^{182}W(^{36}Ar,4n)^{214}U, was identified by employing the gas-filled recoil separator SHANS and the recoil-α correlation technique. More precise α-decay properties of even-even nuclei ^{216,218}U were also measured in the reactions of ^{40}Ar, ^{40}Ca beams with ^{180,182,184}W targets. By combining the experimental data, improved α-decay reduced widths δ^{2} for the even-even Po-Pu nuclei in the vicinity of the magic neutron number N=126 are deduced. Their systematic trends are discussed in terms of the N_{p}N_{n} scheme in order to study the influence of proton-neutron interaction on α decay in this region of nuclei. It is strikingly found that the reduced widths of ^{214,216}U are significantly enhanced by a factor of two as compared with the N_{p}N_{n} systematics for the 84≤Z≤90 and N<126 even-even nuclei. The abnormal enhancement is interpreted by the strong monopole interaction between the valence protons and neutrons occupying the π1f_{7/2} and ν1f_{5/2} spin-orbit partner orbits, which is supported by the large-scale shell model calculation.

Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) suppresses triacylglycerol accumulation and monounsaturated fatty acid synthesis in goat mammary epithelial cells

Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) is a well-known tumor suppressor in nonruminants and regulates various cellular processes including growth through dephosphorylation of phosphoinositide substrates. Although studies with bovine mammary tissue suggested a role for PTEN during lactation, its potential role in lipid metabolism remains unknown. Objectives of the present study were to determine PTEN abundance in goat mammary tissue at 2 stages of lactation (n = 6 Xinong Saanen dairy goats per stage), and to use gene-silencing and adenoviral transfections in vitro with isolated goat mammary epithelial cells (GMEC) to evaluate the role of PTEN abundance of lipid metabolism-related genes. Abundance of PTEN decreased by 51.5% at peak lactation compared with the dry period. The PTEN was overexpressed in isolated GMEC through adenoviral transfection using an adenovirus system with Ad-GFP (recombinant adenovirus of green fluorescent protein) as control, and silenced via targeted small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection with a scrambled small interfering RNA as a negative control. Cell culture was performed for 48 h before RNA extraction, triacylglycerol (TAG) analysis, and fatty acid analysis. Overexpression of PTEN downregulated abundance of acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase α (ACACA), fatty acid synthase (FASN), sterol regulatory element binding transcription factor1 (SREBF1), stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase 1 (SCD1), diacylglycerol acytransferase 1 (DGAT1), 1-acylglycerol-3-phosphate O-acyltransferase 6 (AGPAT6) coupled with an increase in patatin-like-phospholipase domain containing 2 (PNPLA2), hormone-sensitive lipase (LIPE), and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 β (CPT1B). Furthermore, overexpressing PTEN in vitro resulted in a significant decrease in TAG concentration and concentration of C16:1. In contrast, interference of PTEN led to an opposite effect on lipid metabolism in GMEC. These changes suggested a shift from lipogenesis and esterification to lipolysis and fatty acid oxidation. Collectively, PTEN seems to play a role in monounsaturated fatty acids synthesis and lipid accumulation in GMEC.

Short-Lived α-Emitting Isotope ^{222}Np and the Stability of the N=126 Magic Shell

A new, very short-lived neutron-deficient isotope ^{222}Np was produced in the complete-fusion reaction ^{187}Re(^{40}Ar,5n)^{222}Np, and observed at the gas-filled recoil separator SHANS. The new isotope ^{222}Np was identified by employing a recoil-α correlation measurement, and six α-decay chains were established for it. The decay properties of ^{222}Np with E_{α}=10016(33)  keV and T_{1/2}=380_{-110}^{+260}  ns were determined experimentally. The α-decay systematics of Np isotopes is improved by adding the new data for ^{222}Np, which validates the N=126 shell effect in Np isotopes. The evolution of the N=126 shell closure is discussed in the neutron-deficient nuclei up to Np within the framework of α-decay reduced width.

New Isotope ^{220}Np: Probing the Robustness of the N=126 Shell Closure in Neptunium

A new short-lived neutron-deficient isotope ^{220}Np was synthesized in the fusion-evaporation reaction ^{185}Re(^{40}Ar,5n)^{220}Np at the gas-filled recoil separator SHANS. Based on the measurement of the correlated α-decay chains, the decay properties of ^{220}Np with E_{α}=10040(18)  keV and T_{1/2}=25_{-7}^{+14}  μs were determined, which are in good agreement with theoretical predictions. From the new experimental results coupled with the recently reported α-decay data of ^{219,223}Np, the α-decay systematics for Np isotopes around N=126 was established, which allows us for the first time to test the robustness of the N=126 shell closure in Z=93 Np isotopes. The results also indicate that, in the region of nuclei with Z≥83, the proton drip line has been reached for all odd-Z isotopes up to Np.

[Effects of combined transplantation of rat Schwann cells and fibroblasts on nerve regeneration of denervated perforator flaps in rats and the mechanism]

Objective: To explore the effects of combined transplantation of the rat Schwann cells and fibroblasts (Fbs) on the nerve regeneration of denervated perforator flaps in rats and the mechanism. Methods: (1) Fbs were isolated from the trunk of 2 Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats embryos of 14-16 days' pregnancy and cultured, and the morphology of the cells was observed. The third passage of cells were used for subsequent experiments. The protein expressions of fibronectin and Ephrin-B2 were observed by immunohistochemical method. The mRNA expression of Ephrin-B2 was detected by real-time fluorescent quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (n=3). (2) Schwann cells were isolated from the bilateral sciatic nerves and brachial plexus nerves of 45 SD rats born for 1-3 days and cultured, and the morphology of the cells was observed. The third passage of cells were used for subsequent experiments. The rate of S100 positive cells was detected by immunofluorescence method and flow cytometer, with sample numbers of 9 and 3 respectively. (3) In Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium (DMEM) high glucose medium, 1 mL Fbs and 1 mL Schwann cells both in the concentration of 1×10(5) cells/mL were co-cultured as Schwann cells+ Fbs co-culture group, and 2 mL Schwann cells in the concentration of 1×10(5) cells/mL were cultured alone as Schwann cells alone culture group, with 5 wells in each group. The clusters of Schwann cells in the two groups were observed and counted under inverted phase contrast microscope at post culture hour (PCH) 6 and 24 respectively. The clusters of Schwann cells in Schwann cells+ Fbs co-culture group were observed by immunofluorescence method at PCH 24 too. The protein expressions of EphB2, Sox2, and N-cadherin in Schwann cells of two groups at PCH 24 were detected by Western blotting (n=20). (4) Totally 100 8-week-old male SD rats were selected, and an in situ replanted peritoneal denervated perforator flap was made in each rat. According to the random number table, the rats were divided into simple flap group, Fbs alone transplantation group, Schwann cells alone transplantation group, Schwann cells+ Fbs co-transplantation group, with 25 rats in each group. Flaps of rats in Fbs alone transplantation group and Schwann cells alone transplantation group were injected with 0.4 mL Fb and 0.4 mL Schwann cells respectively (2×10(6) cells each). Flaps of rats in Schwann cells+ Fbs co-transplantation group were injected with 0.4 mL Fbs and Schwann cells mixed cells (totally 2×10(6) cells, cell number ratio: 1∶1), and flaps of rats of simple flap group were injected with the same volume of DMEM high glucose medium. On post injection day (PID) 2, 5, 7, 9, and 14, 5 rats in each group were selected respectively according to the random number table. The flap tissue was collected, and the number, diameter, and arrangement of regenerated nerves were observed by immunofluorescence method. Data were processed with completely random designed t test, analysis of variance for repeated measurement, t test, and Bonferroni correction. Results: (1) The third passage of cells isolated and cultured from the rat embryo trunks were uniform in size and shape, long spindle-shaped, with a large proportion of nuclei. Strong positive expressions of fibronectin and Ephrin-B2 protein in cells were observed, and the mRNA expression of Ephrin-B2 was 0.004 1±0.000 8. The cells were identified as Fbs. (2) After 5 days of culture, the primary cells isolated from the sciatic nerves and brachial plexus nerves of neonatal rats were elongated in cell bodies and grew in nest, fence, or vortex-like shape. The third passage of cells were detected by immunofluorescence method and flow cytometer, and the corresponding S100 positive cell rates were (95.9±1.0)% and (95.8±1.1)% respectively. The cells were identified as Schwann cells. (3) At PCH 6 and 24, the cluster numbers of Schwann cells in Schwann cells+ Fbs co-culture group were significantly higher than those of Schwann cells alone culture group (t=6.500, 10.614, P<0.01). At PCH 24, the Schwann cells in Schwann cells+ Fbs co-culture group aggregated into clusters, Fbs dispersed around the Schwann cell clusters, and the protein expressions of EphB2, N-cadherin, and Sox2 in Schwann cells were significantly higher than those in Schwann cells alone culture group (t=2.975, 19.717, 11.159, P<0.05 or P<0.01). (4) On PID 2, a small number of scattered, disordered, short, and thin nerve fibers were observed in the flap tissue of rats in the four groups. From PID 5 to 14, the number of nerve fibers in the flap tissue of rats of Schwann cells+ Fbs co-transplantation group increased gradually, and the nerve fibers were with long diameter and arranged orderly. The number of nerve fibers in the flap tissue of rats of Schwann cells alone transplantation group increased, but the nerve fibers were with short diameter and arranged disorderly, and the number was smaller than that of Schwann cells+ Fbs co-transplantation group. In simple flap group and Fbs alone transplantation group, the nerve fibers in the flap tissue of rats gradually degenerated with gradually decreased number or even disappeared. Conclusions: The combined transplantation of Fbs and Schwann cells in rats can regulate Schwann cells migration and clustering by activating Ephrin/Eph-Sox2-N-cadherin signaling pathway, thus promoting the orderly nerve regeneration of denervated perforator flaps in rats.

RETRACTED: Modulation of macrophage phenotype through controlled release of interleukin-4 from gelatine coatings on titanium surfaces

Pro-inflammatory phenotype (M1) macrophages initiate angiogenesis, while their prolonged activation can induce chronic inflammation. Anti-inflammatory phenotype (M2) macrophages promote vessel maturation and tissue regeneration. Biomaterials which can promote M2 polarisation after appropriate inflammation should enhance angiogenesis and wound healing. Herein, Interleukin-4 (IL-4), an anti-inflammatory cytokine, was adsorbed onto a titanium surface. Then, a genipin cross-linked gelatine hydrogel was coated onto the surface to delay IL-4 release. The cross-linking degree of the hydrogel was modulated by the different amount of genipin to control release of IL-4. When 0.7 wt% (weight %) genipin was used as a cross-linker, the sample (GG07-I) released less IL-4 within the first several days, followed by a sustained release time to 14 d. Meanwhile, the release rate of IL-4 in GG07-I reached a peak between 3 d and 7 d. In culture with macrophages in vitro, GG07-I and GG07 exhibited good cytocompatibility. The phenotypical switch of macrophages stimulated by the samples was determined by FACS, ELISA and PCR. Macrophages cultured with GG07-I, GG07 and PT were firstly activated to the M1 phenotype by interferon-gamma (IFN-γ). Then, due to the release of IL-4 in 5 to 7 d, GG07-I enhanced CD206, increased the secretion and gene expression of M2 marker, such as interleukin-10 (IL-10), arginase-1 (ARG-1) and platelet derived growth factor-BB (PDGF- BB). GG07-I prompted the switch from M1 to M2 phenotype. Those appropriate secretion of cytokines would benefit both vascularisation and osseointegration. Thus, the biomaterial directing inflammatory reaction has good prospects for clinical treatments.

[Significance of the reverse phase nystagmus for the diagnosis of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo]

Objective:To investigate the significance of the reverse phase nystagmus for the diagnosis of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo when going on the positioning test. Method:During the positioning test，there are 26 cases with reverse phase nystagmus in the 118 BPPV patients，note and analyse their nystagmus characteristics，then combine their disease history，to diagnose the affected side of the BPPV，and following with the corresponding treat of canalith repositioning procedure（CRP）. Result:All the 26 cases with reverse phase nystagmus are the BPPV patients of horizontal semicircular postalcanalithasis，in which，RHSC-pCan for 15 cases，LHSC-pCan for 11 cases，with the treat of CRP，the significant effectivities are 4 cases，effectivities 15，uneffectivities 7，after single factor chi-square test，χ²=7.46,P< 0.05.Conclusion:For the BPPV cases with reverse phase nystagmus during the positioning test，their efficacy difference of the CRP is significant statistically，that is the CRP treat is effective, the therapeutic diagnosis is established, which contributes to the analysis and judgment for the affected side of the semi-circular canals.

Effect of hydrostatic pressure on the superconducting properties of quasi-1D superconductor K2Cr3As3

K₂Cr₃As₃ is a newly discovered quasi-1D superconductor with a T _c  =  6.1 K and an upper critical field µ ₀ H _c2(0)  ≈  40 T three times larger than the Pauli paramagnetic limit µ ₀ H _p that is suggestive of a spin-triplet Cooper pairing. In this paper, we have investigated the effects of hydrostatic pressure on its T _c and µ ₀ H _c2 by measuring the ac magnetic susceptibility χ'(T) under magnetic fields at various hydrostatic pressures up to 7.5 GPa. The major findings include: (1) T _c is suppressed gradually to below 2 K at 7.5 GPa; (2) the estimated µ ₀ H _c2(0) decreases dramatically to below µ ₀ H _p above ~2 GPa and becomes slight lower than the orbital limiting field [Formula: see text] estimated from the initial slope of upper critical field via [Formula: see text]  =  -0.73T _cdH _c2/[Formula: see text] in the clean limit; (3) the estimated Maki parameter α  =  √2[Formula: see text]/H _p drops from 4 at ambient pressure to well below 1 at P  >  2 GPa, suggesting the crossover from Pauli paramagnetic limiting to orbital limiting in the pair breaking process upon increasing pressure. These observations suggested that the application of hydrostatic pressure could drive K₂Cr₃As₃ away from the ferromagnetic instability and lead to a breakdown of the spin-triplet pairing channel. We have also made a side-by-side comparison and discussed the distinct effects of chemical and physical pressures on the superconducting properties of K₂Cr₃As₃.

[Effects of lappaconitine on pain and inflammatory response of severely burned rats and the mechanism]

Objective: To explore the effects of lappaconitine (LA) on pain and inflammatory response of severely burned rats and the mechanism. Methods: Forty SD rats were divided into healthy+ normal saline group, sham injury+ normal saline group, pure burn group, burn+ LA group, and healthy+ LA group according to the random number table (the same dividing method below), with 8 rats in each group. Rats in pure burn and burn+ LA groups were inflicted with about 32% total body surface area deep partial-thickness scald (hereinafter referred to as burn) on the back and right hind. Rats in sham injury+ normal saline group were sham injured. Rats in burn+ LA group were intraperitoneally injected with 1 g/L LA solution in the dosage of 4 mL/kg at 2.0 h before injury and post injury hour (PIH) 0 (immediately), 24.0, 48.0, and 72.0. Rats in healthy+ LA group were intraperitoneally injected with LA solution in the same dose at the same time points as above, and rats in healthy+ normal saline and sham injury+ normal saline groups were intraperitoneally injected with normal saline in the dose of 4 mL/kg at the same time points as above. At 1.5 h before injury and PIH 12.5, 24.5, 36.5, 48.5, and 72.5, the paw withdrawal mechanical threshold (PWMT) of injured rats was detected, and their pain behaviors were observed. The same observation and detection were conducted in rats without injury in the two groups at the same time points as above. Another 32 SD rats were divided into normal saline group, trinitrophenyl (TNP)-ATP group, minocyline group, pyridoxal-phosphate-6-azophenyl-2', 4'-disulfonic acid (PPADS) group, with 8 rats in each group, and all the rats were inflicted with the same burn injury as above. At PIH 48.0, rats in normal saline group were intrathecally injected with 10 μL normal saline; rats in TNP-ATP group were intrathecally injected with 10 μL TNP-ATP in the concentration of 30 nmol/μL; rats in minocyline group were intrathecally injected with 10 μL minocyline in the concentration of 5 g/L; rats in PPADS group were intrathecally injected with 10 μL PPADS in the concentration of 10 nmol/μL. The PWMT of rats was detected at 0.5 h before injection and 0.5 h after. At PIH 72.5, the tissue in the dorsal horn of spinal cord of rats in sham injury+ normal saline, pure burn, and burn+ LA groups was harvested to observe the co-expression of P2X(4) receptor and OX42 receptor with immunofluorescent staining and to observe the expression of P2X(4) receptor and count the positive cells with immunohistochemical staining. The venous blood was harvested for determination of serum content of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The same observation and determination were conducted in rats without injury in the two groups at the same time point as above. Data were processed with one-way analysis of variance, analysis of variance for repeated measurement, SNK test, paired t test, and Bonferroni correction. Results: (1) There were no abnormal activity in rats of healthy+ normal saline, sham injury+ normal saline, healthy+ LA groups at all time points. Until PIH 72.5, rats in pure burn group were in poor mental state; red and swollen manifestation and blister were observed in burn wounds on the back and right hind; imbalance in gait, lick, bite, and scratch were observed occasionally. Fewer behaviors such as lick, bite, and limp were observed in rats in burn+ LA group than in pure burn group, and the red and swollen manifestation in wounds of rats in burn+ LA group dissipated faster than that in pure burn group. (2) At 1.5 h before injury, there were no significant differences in the PWMT values of rats in healthy+ normal saline, sham injury+ normal saline, pure burn, burn+ LA, and healthy+ LA groups (F=0.106, P>0.05). PWMT values of rats in pure burn group were significantly lower than those in the other 4 groups at all post injury time points (with P values below 0.05). PWMT values of rats in burn+ LA group were significantly lower than those in healthy+ normal saline, sham injury+ normal saline, and healthy+ LA groups at all post injury time points (with P values below 0.05). (3) At 0.5 h before injection, PWMT values of rats in normal saline, TNP-ATP, PPADS, and minocyline groups were close, respectively 15.3±0.8, 15.1±1.0, 15.3±0.9, and 15.6±1.1 (F=0.343, P>0.05). At 0.5 h after injection, PWMT values of rats in normal saline group and PPADS group were respectively 15.2±1.2 and 14.8±1.0, which were significantly lower than 20.8±1.4 and 26.3±1.0 in TNP-ATP group and minocyline group respectively (with P values below 0.05). PWMT values of rats in normal saline and PPADS groups were similar before and after injection (with t values respectively 0.073 and -0.772, P values above 0.05), while those of rats in TNP-ATP and minocyline groups were higher after injection than before injection (with t values respectively -10.180 and -20.813, P values below 0.01). (4) At PIH 72.5, co-expression of P2X(4) receptor and OX42 receptor was observed in a few microglias of rats in healthy+ normal saline, sham injury+ normal saline, and healthy+ LA groups, while co-expression of P2X(4) receptor and OX42 receptor was observed in a large number of microglias of rats in pure burn and burn+ LA groups. At PIH 72.5, more P2X(4) receptor positive cells were observed in rats in pure burn group than in the other 4 groups (with P values below 0.05), and more P2X(4) receptor positive cells were observed in rats in burn+ LA group than in healthy+ normal saline, sham injury+ normal saline, and healthy+ LA groups (with P values below 0.05). (5) At PIH 72.5, the serum content of TNF-α and IL-1β of rats in pure burn group was significantly higher than that in the other 4 groups (with P values below 0.001). The serum content of TNF-α and IL-1β of rats in burn+ LA group was significantly lower than that in healthy+ normal saline, sham injury+ normal saline, and healthy+ LA groups (with P values below 0.001). Conclusions: LA has significant analgesic effects on severely burned rats, and it can ameliorate the excessive inflammational situation. The mechanism may be related to its inhibition of expression of P2X(4) receptor in microglias in the dorsal horn of spinal cord and reduction in the release of inflammatory factors TNF-α and IL-1β.

Misdiagnosis of asthma in schoolchildren

BACKGROUND

A correct diagnosis of asthma is the cornerstone of asthma management. Few pediatric studies have examined the accuracy of physician-diagnosed asthma.

OBJECTIVES

We determined the accuracy of parent reported physician-diagnosed asthma in children sampled from a community cohort.

METHODS

Nested case-control study that recruited 203 children, aged 9-12, from a community-based sample. Three groups were recruited: asthma cases had a parental report of physician-diagnosed asthma, symptomatic controls had respiratory symptoms without a diagnosis of asthma, and asymptomatic controls had no respiratory symptoms. All participants were assessed and assigned a clinical diagnosis by one of three study physicians, and then completed spirometry, methacholine challenge, and allergy skin testing. The reference standard of asthma required a study physician's clinical diagnosis of asthma and either reversible bronchoconstriction or a positive methacholine challenge. Diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity and specificity were calculated for parent-reported asthma diagnosis compared to the reference standard.

RESULTS

One hundred two asthma cases, 52 controls with respiratory symptoms but no asthma diagnosis, and 49 asymptomatic controls were assessed. Physician agreement for the diagnosis of asthma was moderate (kappa 0.46-0.81). Compared to the reference standard, 45% of asthma cases were overdiagnosed and 10% of symptomatic controls were underdiagnosed. Parental report of physician-diagnosed asthma had 75% sensitivity and 92% specificity for correctly identifying asthma.

CONCLUSIONS

There is significant misclassification of childhood asthma when the diagnosis relies solely on a clinical history. This study highlights the importance of objective testing to confirm the diagnosis of asthma. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2017;52:293-302. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

[Advances in the research of burn pain]

Burn pain starts immediately after burn and may last through the whole course of treatment, and it even may accompany patients with deep burn in the phase of scar formation. Burn pain makes patients anxious for a long period of time, thus seriously lowers life quality of them. In recent years, researchers at home and abroad have had new understanding for ideas of treating burn pain, and reports about the treatment of burn pain have been growing. At present, attention to and knowledge about burn pain are far from enough in clinic. There is a long way to go for further improving the treatment level of burn pain and changing ideas about treating it. This article reviews the clarification, the mechanism, the method of assessment, and therapy of burn pain.

Hybrid particle swarm global optimization algorithm for phase diversity phase retrieval

The core problem of phase diversity phase retrieval (PDPR) is to find suitable optimization algorithms for wave-front sensing of different scales, especially for large-scale wavefront sensing. When dealing with large-scale wave-front sensing, existing gradient-based local optimization algorithms used in PDPR are easily trapped in local minimums near initial positions, and available global optimization algorithms possess low convergence efficiency. We construct a practicable optimization algorithm used in PDPR for large-scale wave-front sensing. This algorithm, named EPSO-BFGS, is a two-step hybrid global optimization algorithm based on the combination of evolutionary particle swarm optimization (EPSO) and the Broyden-Fletcher-Goldfarb-Shanno (BFGS) algorithm. Firstly, EPSO provides global search and obtains a rough global minimum position in limited search steps. Then, BFGS initialized by the rough global minimum position approaches the global minimum with high accuracy and fast convergence speed. Numerical examples testify to the feasibility and reliability of EPSO-BFGS for wave-front sensing of different scales. Two numerical cases also validate the ability of EPSO-BFGS for large-scale wave-front sensing. The effectiveness of EPSO-BFGS is further affirmed by performing a verification experiment.

[Efficiency and adverse effects of the effective therapy applying etoposide + cisplatin and its subsequent maintenance therapy with different durations in patients with small cell lung cancer]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the efficiency and adverse effects of the effective EP (etoposide + cisplatin) therapy and its subsequent maintenance therapy with different durations in patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC).

METHODS

Clinical data of 104 SCLC patients diagnosed and treated at the Jilin Province Cancer Hospital between September 2010 and December 2013 were retrospectively analyzed.Among them, 35 patients were subsequently treated with a 4-week maintenance therapy following the original therapeutic regimen after the effective EP therapy (4-week maintenance therapy group), 35 patients were treated with a subsequent 6-week maintenance therapy (6-week maintenance therapy group), and 34 patients were treated without maintenance therapy (control group).52 patients were in limited stage, and 52 patients were in extensive stage. The progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS) and adverse effects in the 4-week maintenance therapy group, 6-week maintenance therapy group and control group were analyzed.

RESULTS

The median PFS in the control group, 4-week maintenance therapy group and 6-week maintenance therapy group was 4.0, 3.5, and 4.0 months, respectively, and the median OS was 9.0, 10.0 and 12.0 months, respectively, showing no significant difference among the groups (P>0.05 for all). The median PFS was prolonged by 2 months as compared with the control group after the 4-week maintenance therapy in the patients with complete remission in first-line chemotherapy (P=0.041), while the median OS was not improved (P=0.131). Neither the median PFS nor median OS showed statistically significant difference between each two groups in the patients with partial remission in first-line chemotherapy (P>0.05 for all). In the limited stage, the median PFS in the control group, 4-week maintenance therapy group, and 6-week maintenance therapy group was 5.0, 6.5, and 4.0 months, respectively, and median OS was 11.0, 13.5, and 13.0 months, respectively, the differences showed no statistical significance (P>0.05 for all). In the extensive stage, the median PFS in the control group, 4-week maintenance therapy group, and 6-week maintenance therapy group was 3.0, 3.0, and 3.5 months, respectively, showing significant differences (P=0.015); the median OS was 6.5, 8.0, and 8.0 months, respectively, presenting no statistically significant differences (P=0.096). In addition, the PFS in the 6-week maintenance therapy group was significantly improved as compared with that in the control group (P=0.016). Compared with the control group, the incidence rates of nausea (grade 3-4), vomiting, hypodynamia, leukopenia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia in the 4-week maintenance therapy group and 6-week maintenance therapy group were increased significantly (P<0.05 for all), however, the side effects were tolerable.

CONCLUSION

Prolonging the treatment cycle of EP therapy can improve the PFS in SCLC patients in first-line CR chemotherapy and extensive stage.

Molecular cloning, characterization, and expression of Rab5B, Rab6A, and Rab7 from Litopenaeus vannamei (Penaeidae)

The Rab protein family belongs to a superfamily of ras-like GTP-binding proteins. Rab proteins regulate many steps of membrane trafficking. In this study, three Rab family members, Rab5B, Rab6A, and Rab7, designated LvRab5B, LvRab6A, and LvRab7, were cloned from Litopenaeus vannamei. The full-length cDNA sequences of LvRab5B, LvRab6A, and LvRab7 were 1383, 873, and 767 nucleotides in length and they encoded proteins of 211, 212, and 205 amino acids, respectively. Using qRT-PCR, the mRNA expression levels of the three proteins were determined in the hepatopancreas of L. vannamei at different stages after infectious hypodermal and hematopoietic necrosis virus and white spot syndrome virus challenge. The results indicated that the mRNA expression levels of LvRab5B, LvRab6A, and LvRab7 were all significantly up-regulated after virus injection, suggesting that these genes may play essential roles in the immune response to viral infection in shrimp.

A forced running wheel system with a microcontroller that provides high-intensity exercise training in an animal ischemic stroke model

We developed a forced non-electric-shock running wheel (FNESRW) system that provides rats with high-intensity exercise training using automatic exercise training patterns that are controlled by a microcontroller. The proposed system successfully makes a breakthrough in the traditional motorized running wheel to allow rats to perform high-intensity training and to enable comparisons with the treadmill at the same exercise intensity without any electric shock. A polyvinyl chloride runway with a rough rubber surface was coated on the periphery of the wheel so as to permit automatic acceleration training, and which allowed the rats to run consistently at high speeds (30 m/min for 1 h). An animal ischemic stroke model was used to validate the proposed system. FNESRW, treadmill, control, and sham groups were studied. The FNESRW and treadmill groups underwent 3 weeks of endurance running training. After 3 weeks, the experiments of middle cerebral artery occlusion, the modified neurological severity score (mNSS), an inclined plane test, and triphenyltetrazolium chloride were performed to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed platform. The proposed platform showed that enhancement of motor function, mNSS, and infarct volumes was significantly stronger in the FNESRW group than the control group (P<0.05) and similar to the treadmill group. The experimental data demonstrated that the proposed platform can be applied to test the benefit of exercise-preconditioning-induced neuroprotection using the animal stroke model. Additional advantages of the FNESRW system include stand-alone capability, independence of subjective human adjustment, and ease of use.

Reducing computational costs in large scale 3D EIT by using a sparse Jacobian matrix with block-wise CGLS reconstruction

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is a fast and cost-effective technique to provide a tomographic conductivity image of a subject from boundary current-voltage data. This paper proposes a time and memory efficient method for solving a large scale 3D EIT inverse problem using a parallel conjugate gradient (CG) algorithm. The 3D EIT system with a large number of measurement data can produce a large size of Jacobian matrix; this could cause difficulties in computer storage and the inversion process. One of challenges in 3D EIT is to decrease the reconstruction time and memory usage, at the same time retaining the image quality. Firstly, a sparse matrix reduction technique is proposed using thresholding to set very small values of the Jacobian matrix to zero. By adjusting the Jacobian matrix into a sparse format, the element with zeros would be eliminated, which results in a saving of memory requirement. Secondly, a block-wise CG method for parallel reconstruction has been developed. The proposed method has been tested using simulated data as well as experimental test samples. Sparse Jacobian with a block-wise CG enables the large scale EIT problem to be solved efficiently. Image quality measures are presented to quantify the effect of sparse matrix reduction in reconstruction results.

Cellular stress response in Eca-109 cells inhibits apoptosis during early exposure to isorhamnetin

The flavonol aglycone isorhamnetin shows anti-proliferative activity in a variety of cancer cells. Previous work, from our laboratory showed that isorhamnetin inhibits the proliferation of human esophageal squamous carcinoma Eca-109 cells in vitro, but only after 72 h of exposure. This led us to propose that isorhamnetin exposure induces a cellular stress response that inhibits the antiproliferative and apoptotic effects of the compound during early exposure. To test this hypothesis, the present study examined the effects of isorhamnetin on Eca-109 cells during the first 72 h of exposure. Cell growth was assessed using the trypan blue exclusion assay, and expression of IκBα, NF-κB/p65, NF-κB/p50, phospho-Akt, Bcl-2, COX-2, Mcl-1, Bax, p53 and Id-1 were analyzed by Western blot. During the first 72 h of exposure, NF-κB/p65 and NF-κB/p50 accumulated in nuclei and expression of COX-2, Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 increased. In contrast, expression of IκBα and Bax fell initially but later increased. Expression of phospho-Akt and p53 showed no detectable change during the first 48 h. Pretreatment with the NF-κB inhibitor MG132 before exposure to isorhamnetin blocked the nuclear accumulation of p50 and p65, thereby inhibiting cell proliferation. These results show that during early exposure of Eca-109 cells to isorhamnetin, the NF-κB signaling pathway is activated and COX-2 expression increases, and this increase in expression partially inhibits isorhamnetin-induced apoptosis. Beyond 72 h of exposure, however, the apoptotic effect of isorhamnetin dominates, leading to inhibition of the NF-κB pathway and of cellular proliferation. These results will need to be taken into account when exploring the use of isorhamnetin against cancer in vivo.

Does sperm morphology affect the outcome of intrauterine insemination in patients with normal sperm concentration and motility?

The aim of this study was to assess the correlation of sperm morphology with the intrauterine insemination (IUI) outcome in patients with normal sperm concentration and motility. About 412 couples who underwent 908 IUI cycles were involved in the present study. A total of 110 clinical pregnancies were achieved with a pregnancy rate of 12.11% per cycle. The pregnancy rates per cycle were 7.60%, 12.67%, 13.62% and 13.13% in patients with <5%, 5-9%, 10-14% and >14% normal forms, respectively. The lowest pregnancy rate (7.60%) was obtained in the group with normal forms below 5%. However, this rate was not significantly different from other subgroups. Moreover, no pregnancies occurred in women >35 years old with normal sperm forms below 5%, in comparison with that in other subgroups of the same age. For women younger than 35 years old, no significant difference in pregnancy rate was observed in terms of different level of morphologically normal sperm. Our results show that for patients with normal sperm concentration and motility, IUI is recommended for first-line treatment when the woman is younger than 35 years, or morphologically normal sperm is ≥ 5%. IVF/ICSI should be performed when the normal forms are <5% and female age is > 35 years.

Gate-voltage control of chemical potential and weak antilocalization in Bi₂Se₃

We report that Bi₂Se₃ thin films can be epitaxially grown on SrTiO₃ substrates, which allow for very large tunablity in carrier density with a back gate. The observed low field magnetoconductivity due to weak antilocalization (WAL) has a very weak gate-voltage dependence unless the electron density is reduced to very low values. Such a transition in WAL is correlated with unusual changes in longitudinal and Hall resistivities. Our results suggest a much suppressed bulk conductivity at large negative gate voltages and a possible role of surface states in the WAL phenomena.

Magnetoelectric photocurrent generated by direct interband transitions in InGaAs/InAlAs two-dimensional electron gas

We report the observation of magnetoelectric photocurrent generated via direct interband transitions in an InGaAs/InAlAs two-dimensional electron gas by a linearly polarized incident light. The electric current is proportional to the in-plane magnetic field, which unbalances the velocities of the photoexcited carriers with opposite spins and consequently generates the electric current from a hidden spin photocurrent. The spin photocurrent can be evaluated from the measured electric current, and the conversion coefficient of spin photocurrent to electric current is self-consistently estimated to be 10(-3)-10(-2) per Tesla. The observed light-polarization dependence of the electric current is well explained by a theoretical model which reveals the wave vector angle dependence of the photoexcited carrier density.

Risk assessment and distribution of soil Pb in Guangdong, China

In this study, the spatial distributions of soil lead (Pb) concentration in three horizontal soils in Guangdong, China, were surveyed and analyzed using geostatistics and geography information systems (GIS). Findings indicated that the Pb geometric mean concentration of 23.3 mg/kg in surface soils was found to be higher than those in global soils, which ranged from 2.3-235 mg/kg. In addition, the Pb geometric mean concentrations from A- to C-horizon were found to be 23.3, 27.2, and 28.6 mg/kg, respectively. The classification of a soil Pb environmental risk in an area was likewise presented based on the different levels of environmental quality of Pb and was done by GIS technology. Accordingly, there is a higher local concentration of Pb in the surrounding areas of Guangzhou where there is higher population density and in the north of Guangdong, which is a historic mining area. The results obtained by the environmental risk assessment reveal that about 46% of total surveyed area was above the background value, that is, 2.7% of the total area was at risk of pollution.

Spatial distributions and potential risk analysis of total soil selenium in Guangdong Province, China

A total of 260 soil profiles were examined to investigate the spatial distribution of total soil selenium (Se) in Guangdong province, China. In the investigated area, the soil Se concentrations follow an approximately lognormal distribution. The soil Se geometric mean concentration of 0.23 mg kg(-1) is higher than that of Chinese soils; however, Se concentration varies over the study area. The baseline concentration of 0.13 to 0.41 mg kg(-1) indicates that the soil Se concentration is mostly in the range of deficiency to medium level for surface soils in Guangdong province. In A-, B-, and C-horizon, soil Se spatial distribution is correlated with the nature of the parent material, with high Se concentration mainly located in limestone and sandshale areas and low Se concentration associated with purple shale and granite areas. The spatial distribution pattern of soil Se concentrations suggests that potential Se deficiency may be an issue for human health in this province. Moreover, due to soil degradation and erosion, calculated soil Se exported into surrounding waters could reach approximately 23,000 kg yr(-1) in the study area.

Spectral dependence of spin photocurrent and current-induced spin polarization in an InGaAs/InAlAs two-dimensional electron gas

The converse effects of spin photocurrent and current induced spin polarization are experimentally demonstrated in a two-dimensional electron gas system with Rashba spin splitting. Their consistency with the strength of the Rashba coupling as measured for the same system from beating of the Shubnikov-de Haas oscillations reveals a unified picture for the spin photocurrent, current-induced spin-polarization, and spin-orbit coupling. In addition, the observed spectral inversion of the spin photocurrent indicates a system with dominating structure inversion asymmetry.

An elderly female who survived more than 30 years following a diagnosis of Takayasu's arteritis, complicated by fatal intestinal amyloidosis

Compared to young patients with Takayasu's arteritis (TA), little information about elderly patients with TA has been reported. Additionally, no reports were found regarding TA cases with complications of intestinal amyloidosis. This is a case report of an elderly female, who developed intestinal amyloidosis, during late-stage TA. After years of outpatient management, she developed sudden severe dyspnea with pulmonary effusion, requiring hospitalization. After this event, betamethasone was replaced by methotrexate (MTX) for the next 34 months, but it seemed ineffective. After 1.5 years, she developed intractable diarrhea, followed by increases in BUN and serum creatinine (Cr), requiring several courses of hemodialysis. Colonoscopy revealed the presence of amyloid in her intestine, although she died of complicated sepsis caused by MRSA infection. This may be the first paper describing intestinal amyloidosis in a TA patient. Additionally, her case is rare in that she lived more than 30 years after the onset and diagnosis of TA.

Preparation and evaluation of a hyaluronate-collagen film for preventing post-surgical adhesion

Post-surgical adhesion occurs when fibrous strands of scar tissue form, leading to the abnormal joining of anatomical structures. Patients undergoing abdominal surgery are at risk of the complications associated with intraperitoneal adhesions. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a biocompatible, biodegradable and non-toxic natural polymer, which is gaining popularity as a barrier agent for preventing post-surgical adhesions. As HA is water-soluble and rapidly degraded in vivo, chemical modification is required to produce a non-soluble sheet that might be used to prevent tissue adhesion. We developed a range of biocompatible cross-linked HA-collagen composites and then evaluated them in a rat model of post-surgical adhesion. The results showed that cross-linked HA-collagen was almost totally resistant to hyaluronidase digestion. HA-collagen membranes induced minimal tissue reactions and were bioresorbed within 14 days post-surgery. These results suggest that cross-linked HA-collagen membrane may be a valuable anti-adhesion material to prevent post-surgical intraperitoneal adhesion.

Low energy electron irradiation induced deep level defects in 6H-SiC: the implication for the microstructure of the deep levels E1/E2

N-type 6H-SiC samples irradiated with electrons having energies of E(e)=0.2, 0.3, 0.5, and 1.7 were studied by deep level transient technique. No deep level was detected at below 0.2 MeV irradiation energy while for E(e)>/=0.3 MeV, deep levels ED1, E(1)/E(2), and E(i) appeared. By considering the minimum energy required to displace the C atom or the Si atom in the SiC lattice, it is concluded that generation of the deep levels E(1)/E(2), as well as ED1 and E(i), involves the displacement of the C atom in the SiC lattice.

Observation of microwave-induced zero-conductance state in Corbino rings of a two-dimensional electron system

Using Corbino samples we have observed oscillatory dc conductance in a high-mobility two-dimensional electron system when it is subjected to crossed microwave and magnetic fields. At the strongest of the oscillation minima the conductance is found to be vanishingly small, indicating a macroscopic insulating state associated with this minimum. With increasing voltage bias, a crossover from Ohmic to electron-heating regime is observed.

Zener tunneling between landau orbits in a high-mobility two-dimensional electron gas

Magnetotransport in a laterally confined two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) can exhibit modified scattering channels owing to a tilted Hall potential. Transitions of electrons between Landau levels with shifted guiding centers can be accomplished through a Zener tunneling mechanism, and make a significant contribution to the magnetoresistance. A remarkable oscillation effect in weak field magnetoresistance has been observed in high-mobility 2DEGs in GaAs -Al Ga 0.3As (0.7) heterostructures, and can be well explained by the Zener mechanism.

Essential role of NHE3 in facilitating formate-dependent NaCl absorption in the proximal tubule

The absorption of NaCl in the proximal tubule is markedly stimulated by formate. This stimulation of NaCl transport is consistent with a cell model involving Cl(-)-formate exchange in parallel with pH-coupled formate recycling due to nonionic diffusion of formic acid or H(+)-formate cotransport. The formate recycling process requires H(+) secretion. Although Na(+)-H(+) exchanger isoform NHE3 accounts for the largest component of H(+) secretion in the proximal tubule, 40-50% of the rates of HCO absorption or cellular H(+) extrusion persist in NHE3 null mice. The purpose of the present investigation is to use NHE3 null mice to directly test the role of apical membrane NHE3 in mediating NaCl absorption stimulated by formate. We demonstrate that formate stimulates NaCl absorption in the mouse proximal tubule microperfused in vivo, but the component of NaCl absorption stimulated by formate is absent in NHE3 null mice. In contrast, stimulation of NaCl absorption by oxalate is preserved in NHE3 null mice, indicating that oxalate-stimulated NaCl absorption is independent of Na(+)-H(+) exchange. The virtually complete dependence of formate-induced NaCl absorption on NHE3 activity raises the possibility that NHE3 and the formate transporters are functionally coupled in the brush border membrane.

Identification of a chloride-formate exchanger expressed on the brush border membrane of renal proximal tubule cells

A key function of the proximal tubule is retrieval of most of the vast quantities of NaCl and water filtered by the kidney. Physiological studies using brush border vesicles and perfused tubules have indicated that a major fraction of Cl(-) reabsorption across the apical membrane of proximal tubule cells occurs via Cl(-)-formate exchange. The molecular identity of the transporter responsible for renal brush border Cl(-)-formate exchange has yet to be elucidated. As a strategy to identify one or more anion exchangers responsible for mediating Cl(-) reabsorption in the proximal tubule, we screened the expressed sequence tag database for homologs of pendrin, a transporter previously shown to mediate Cl(-)-formate exchange. We now report the cDNA cloning of CFEX, a mouse pendrin homolog with expression in the kidney by Northern analysis. Sequence analysis indicated that CFEX very likely represents the mouse ortholog of human SLC26A6. Immunolocalization studies detected expression of CFEX, but not pendrin, on the brush border membrane of proximal tubule cells. Functional expression studies in Xenopus oocytes demonstrated that CFEX mediates Cl(-)-formate exchange. Taken together, these observations identify CFEX as a prime candidate to mediate Cl(-)-formate exchange in the proximal tubule and thereby to contribute importantly to renal NaCl reabsorption. Given its wide tissue distribution, CFEX also may contribute to transcellular Cl(-) transport in additional epithelia such as the pancreas and contribute to transmembrane Cl(-) transport in nonepithelial tissues such as the heart.

[Alien chromosomal identification in VE161 wheat]

VE161 wheat which has the function of promotting homoeologous pairing is a male sterile substitution line or a fertile addition line with one pair of alien chromosomes from Agropyron elongatum. The alien chromosome in VE161 wheat was detected by means of techniques of total genomic DNA in situ hybridization, RFLP and double-ditelo chromosomal analysis. The results from in situ hybridization confirmed that the alien chromosome was derived from Agropyron elongatum. The RFLP analysis showed that it belongs to fourth homoeologous group, and the results from double-ditelo chromosomal analysis gave evidence that 4B chromosome was replaced in the substitution line, so it can be concluded that, in VE161 wheat, the alien chromosome would be 4E and the replaced wheat chromosome would be 4B in the substitution line. The reason for the replaced chromosome identified as 7B in a earlier study might be due to the rearrangement occurred in the genome of wheat.

Role of sodium/hydrogen exchanger isoform NHE3 in fluid secretion and absorption in mouse and rat cholangiocytes

Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) isoforms play important roles in intracellular pH regulation and in fluid absorption. The isoform NHE3 has been localized to apical surfaces of epithelia and in some tissues may facilitate the absorption of NaCl. To determine whether the apical isoform NHE3 is present in cholangiocytes and to examine whether it has a functional role in cholangiocyte fluid secretion and absorption, immunocytochemical studies were performed in rat liver with NHE3 antibodies and functional studies were obtained in isolated bile duct units from wild-type and NHE3-/- mice after stimulation with forskolin, using videomicroscopic techniques. Our results indicate that NHE3 protein is present on the apical membranes of rat cholangiocytes and on the canalicular membrane of hepatocytes. Western blots also detect NHE3 protein in rat cholangiocytes and isolated canalicular membranes. After stimulation with forskolin, duct units from NHE3-/- mice fail to absorb the secreted fluid from the cholangiocyte lumen compared with control animals. Similar findings were observed in isolated bile duct units from wild-type mice and rats in the presence of the Na+/H+ exchanger inhibitor 5-(N-ethyl-N-isopropyl)-amiloride. In contrast, we could not demonstrate absorption of fluid from the canalicular lumen of mouse or rat hepatocyte couplets after stimulation of secretion with forskolin. These findings indicate that NHE3 is located on the apical membrane of rat cholangiocytes and that this NHE isoform can function to absorb fluid from the lumens of isolated rat and mouse cholangiocyte preparations.

[Indicators of quality of care in nursing homes from the perspective of elderly residents]

The purpose of this study was to explore the indicators of quality of care in nursing homes from the perspective of residents. A qualitative research method with in-depth interviews and participant observation was used to collect the data. Sample consisted of 10 residents from three accredited nursing homes in Keelung, Chia-I, and Kaohsiung. The study found 7 groups of indicators of quality of care for nursing homes including indicators of environment, nursing professional competence, quality assurance, basic human rights, direct care attitude, social interaction, and needs satisfaction. Findings of this study may sensitize long-term care professionals to the needs of nursing home residents. These findings can also provide a basis for setting indicators for nursing home quality evaluation and for further improvement of the life quality of nursing home residents.

The processing of coreference for reduced expressions in discourse integration

Three reading-time experiments in Chinese are reported that test contrasting views of how pronominal coreference is achieved. On the one hand, studies of reading time and eye tracking suggest that reduced expressions, such as the pronoun he, serve as critical links to integrate separate utterances into a coherent model of discourse. On the other hand, probe-word recognition studies indicate that full anaphoric expressions, such as a repeated name, are more readily interpreted than reduced expressions due to their rich lexical information, which provides effective cues to match the representation of the appropriate referent in memory. The results indicate that the ease of integrating the critical referent into a model of discourse is a function of the congruence of lexical, semantic, and discourse features conveyed by a syntactically prominent reduced expression within linguistic input. This pattern supports the view that a reduced expression is interpreted on-line and indeed plays a critical role in promoting discourse coherence by facilitating the semantic integration of separate utterances.

Oxidation of nitric oxide in a two-stage chemical scrubber using dc corona discharge

The dc corona was studied as an alternative for NO oxidation in a two-stage chemical scrubber. The dc corona plasma reactor completely oxidized 150ppm of NO to NO2 in an air stream. The NO2 was further oxidized at a higher voltage. For some cases, the NO2 in the effluents of the plasma reactor was absorbed quantitatively by a caustic sodium sulfite aqueous solution in a 2l bubble column gas absorber. The outlet concentrations of both NO and NO2 from the plasma-scrubber combination system (corona-induced chemical scrubber) were below the detection limit of the chemiluminescent NOx analyzer.

The use of schematic knowledge about sources in source monitoring

Source monitoring refers to mental processes leading to attributions regarding the origin of information. We tested Johnson, Hashtroudi, and Lindsay's (1993) assumption that prior source-relevant knowledge is used in some source-monitoring tasks. In two experiments using different domains of schematic knowledge, two sources presented information that was expected for one source and somewhat unexpected for the other. In a later source-monitoring test, participants decided whether items had been presented by Source A, by Source B, or were new. The results of both experiments show that source identification is better for expected items than for somewhat unexpected items. Multinomial modeling analyses revealed that when participants do not remember the source of information, they guess that it was presented by the expected source. These results provide evidence for the claim that source monitoring can be based on prior knowledge and support a guessing hypothesis.