Artemyriantholides A-K, guaiane-type sesquiterpenoid dimers from Artemisia myriantha var. pleiocephala and their antihepatoma activity

Artemyriantholides A-K (1-11) as well as 14 known compounds (12-25) were isolated from Artemisia myriantha var. pleiocephala (Asteraceae). The structures and absolute configuration of compounds 2 and 8-9 were confirmed by the single crystal X-ray diffraction analyses, and the others were elucidated by MS, NMR spectral data and electronic circular dichroism calculations. All compounds were chemically characterized as guaiane-type sesquiterpenoid dimers (GSDs). Compound 1 was the first example of the GSD fused via C-3/C-11' and C-5/C-13' linkages, and compounds 2 and 5 were rare GSDs containing chlorine atoms. Eleven compounds showed obvious inhibitory activity in HepG2, Huh7 and SK-Hep-1 cell lines by antihepatoma assay to provide the IC50 values ranging from 7.9 to 67.1 μM. Importantly, compounds 5 and 8 exhibited the best inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 14.2 and 18.8 (HepG2), 9.0 and 11.5 (Huh7), and 8.8 and 11.3 μM (SK-Hep-1), respectively. The target of compound 5 was predicted to be MAP2K2 by a computational prediction model. The interaction between compound 5 and MAP2K2 was conducted to give docking score of -9.0 kcal/mol by molecular docking and provide KD value of 43.7 μM by Surface Plasmon Resonance assay.

Pharmacokinetic and Safety Study of Bismuth Potassium Citrate Formulations in Healthy Subjects

BACKGROUND

Potassium bismuth citrate is a gastric mucosal protector and a key drug for treating peptic ulcers.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the pharmacokinetic characteristics and safety of 120-mg bismuth potassium citrate formulations administered orally under fasting conditions in healthy Chinese subjects.

METHOD

A single-center open two-cycle trial was conducted on 12 healthy subjects who received a single oral dose of 120 mg of bismuth potassium citrate. The plasma concentration of bismuth was determined using a validated inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‒MS) method. The pharmacokinetic parameters, including maximum serum concentration (Cmax) and area under the curve concentration-time curve (AUC0-t and AUC0-∞), and safety were evaluated via noncompartment analysis.

RESULTS

The ratios of the least square geometric mean ratio between the test (T) and reference (R) formulations for Cmax, AUC0-t, and AUC0-∞ were 44.8%, 55.5%, and 64.4%, respectively; the bilateral 95% confidence intervals (Cis) for these parameters were 20.2-99.6%, 24.1-127.5%, and 23.7-175.0%, respectively, and the non-inferior limits for these parameters were 169.4%, 198.8%, and 200.5%, respectively. The upper limits of the one-sided 97.5% confidence interval for the least squares geometric mean ratio (T/R) were lower than the non-inferior limits. No serious adverse reactions or adverse reactions leading to detachment were observed among the subjects.

CONCLUSION

The concentration of bismuth in the blood of healthy subjects in the T formulation was not greater than that in the R formulation. Similarly, the safety of oral administration of 120 mg of bismuth potassium citrate formulations to healthy subjects was good. The trial registration number (TRN) was [2018] 013, 6 December 2018.

Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of artemyrianolide H derivatives as potential antihepatoma agents

Artemyrianolide H (AH) is a germacrene-type sesquiterpenolid isolated from Artemisia myriantha, and showed potent cytotoxicity against three human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines HepG2, Huh7, and SK-Hep-1 with IC₅₀ values of 10.9, 7.2, and 11.9 µM, respectively. To reveal structure-activity relationship, 51 artemyrianolide H derivatives including 19 dimeric analogs were designed, synthesized, and assayed for their cytotoxicity against three human hepatoma cell lines. Among them, 34 compounds were more active than artemyrianolide H and sorafenib on the three cell lines. Especially, compound 25 exhibited the most promising activity with IC₅₀ values of 0.7 (HepG2), 0.6 (Huh7), and 1.3 µM (SK-Hep-1), which were 15.5, 12.0, and 9.2-fold higher than that of AH and 16.4, 16.3 and 17.5-fold higher than that of sorafenib. Cytotoxicity evaluation on normal human liver cell lines (THLE-2) demonstrated good safety profile of compound 25 with SI of 1.9 (HepG2), 2.2 (Huh 7) and 1.0 (SK-Hep1). Further studies revealed that compound 25 dose-dependently arrested cells at G2/M phase which was correlated with the up-regulation of both cyclin B1 and p-CDK1, and induced apoptosis through the activation of mitochondrial pathways in HepG2 cells. In addition, the migratory and invasive abilities in HepG2 cells after treatment with 1.5 μM of compound 25 were decreased by 89% and 86% with the increase of E-cadherin expression accompanied by the decrease of N-cadherin, vimentin expression. Bioinformatics analysis based on machine learning predicted that PDGFRA and MAP2K2 might be acting targets of compound 25, and SPR assays demonstrated compound 25 were bound with PDGFRA and MAP2K2 with K_D value of 0.168 nM, and 8.49 µM, respectively. This investigation proposed that compound 25 might be considered as a promising lead compound for the development of antihepatoma candidate.

Association between the NEP rs701109 polymorphism and the clinical efficacy and safety of sacubitril/valsartan in Chinese patients with heart failure

OBJECTIVE

Sacubitril/valsartan is a commonly used medicine for treating heart failure (HF) patients, but the treatment effects significantly vary. Neprilysin (NEP) and carboxylesterase 1 (CES1) play an important role in the efficacy of sacubitril/valsartan. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between NEP and CES1 gene polymorphisms and the efficacy and safety of sacubitril/valsartan treatment in HF patients.

METHODS

Genotyping of 10 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the NEP and CES1 genes in 116 HF patients was performed by the Sequenom MassARRAY method, and logistic regression and haplotype analysis were used to evaluate the associations between SNPs and the clinical efficacy and safety of sacubitril/valsartan in HF patients.

RESULTS

A total of 116 Chinese patients with HF completed the whole trial, and T variations in rs701109 in NEP gene were an independent risk factor (P = 0.013, OR = 3.292, 95% CI:1.287-8.422) for the clinical efficacy of sacubitril/valsartan. Furthermore, haplotype analysis of 6 NEP SNPs (including rs701109) was performed and showed that the CGTACC and TGTACC haplotypes were significantly associated with clinical efficacy (OR = 0.095, 95%CI: 0.012-0.723, P = 0.003; OR = 5.586, 95% CI: 1.621-19.248, P = 0.005). Moreover, no association was found between SNPs of other selected genes in terms of efficacy in HF patients, and no association was observed between SNPs and symptomatic hypotension.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest an association between rs701109 and sacubitril/valsartan response in HF patients. Symptomatic hypotension is not associated with the presence of NEP polymorphisms.

Pharmacokinetics, Bioequivalence, and Safety of 2 Formulations of Hydroxychloroquine Tablets in Healthy Chinese Volunteers Under Fasting and Fed Conditions

The purpose of this trial was to evaluate the pharmacokinetics (PK), bioequivalence (BE), and safety of 2 preparations of hydroxychloroquine (200-mg tablet) under fasting and fed conditions. A total of 180 subjects (fasting condition: n = 80; fed condition: n = 100) were randomly enrolled in this randomized, open, single-dose, single-cycle parallel phase Ⅰ clinical study. Under the 2 conditions, the subjects were randomly administered the test (T) or reference (R) tablet, both at a dose of 200 mg (1 tablet). Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was used to determine the concentration of hydroxychloroquine in healthy subjects after oral administration of the T or R preparation to evaluate the PK characteristics. In this trial, the T and R preparations of hydroxychloroquine were bioequivalent under both conditions within the range of 80%-125%. No serious adverse events (SAEs) were found in the safety assessments for either condition, and all adverse events (AEs) were mild, except for 2 moderate AEs in the fed condition, indicating good safety.

Relationship between miRNA and ferroptosis in tumors

Malignant tumor is a major killer that seriously endangers human health. At present, the methods of treating tumors include surgical resection, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy. However, the survival rate of patients is still very low due to the complicated mechanism of tumor occurrence and development and high recurrence rate. Individualized treatment will be the main direction of tumor treatment in the future. Because only by understanding the molecular mechanism of tumor development and differentially expressed genes can we carry out accurate treatment and improve the therapeutic effect. MicroRNA (miRNA) is a kind of small non coding RNA, which regulates gene expression at mRNA level and plays a key role in tumor regulation. Ferroptosis is a kind of programmed death caused by iron dependent lipid peroxidation, which is different from apoptosis, necrosis and other cell death modes. Now it has been found that ferroptosis plays an important role in the occurrence and development of tumors and drug resistance. More and more studies have found that miRNAs can regulate tumor development and drug resistance through ferroptosis. Therefore, in this review, the mechanism of ferroptosis is briefly outlined, and the relationship between miRNAs and ferroptosis in tumors is reviewed.

System Xc−/GSH/GPX4 axis: An important antioxidant system for the ferroptosis in drug-resistant solid tumor therapy

The activation of ferroptosis is a new effective way to treat drug-resistant solid tumors. Ferroptosis is an iron-mediated form of cell death caused by the accumulation of lipid peroxides. The intracellular imbalance between oxidant and antioxidant due to the abnormal expression of multiple redox active enzymes will promote the produce of reactive oxygen species (ROS). So far, a few pathways and regulators have been discovered to regulate ferroptosis. In particular, the cystine/glutamate antiporter (System Xc−), glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and glutathione (GSH) (System Xc−/GSH/GPX4 axis) plays a key role in preventing lipid peroxidation-mediated ferroptosis, because of which could be inhibited by blocking System Xc−/GSH/GPX4 axis. This review aims to present the current understanding of the mechanism of ferroptosis based on the System Xc−/GSH/GPX4 axis in the treatment of drug-resistant solid tumors.

The Role of Microglia in Alzheimer’s Disease From the Perspective of Immune Inflammation and Iron Metabolism

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common type of senile dementia, includes the complex pathogenesis of abnormal deposition of amyloid beta-protein (Aβ), phosphorylated tau (p-tau) and neuroimmune inflammatory. The neurodegenerative process of AD triggers microglial activation, and the overactivation of microglia produces a large number of neuroimmune inflammatory factors. Microglia dysfunction can lead to disturbances in iron metabolism and enhance iron-induced neuronal degeneration in AD, while elevated iron levels in brain areas affect microglia phenotype and function. In this manuscript, we firstly discuss the role of microglia in AD and then introduce the role of microglia in the immune-inflammatory pathology of AD. Their role in AD iron homeostasis is emphasized. Recent studies on microglia and ferroptosis in AD are also reviewed. It will help readers better understand the role of microglia in iron metabolism in AD, and provides a basis for better regulation of iron metabolism disorders in AD and the discovery of new potential therapeutic targets for AD.

Therapeutic Effects of Natural Products on Cervical Cancer: Based on Inflammatory Pathways

Inflammation is a protective response of the body to an irritant. When an inflammatory response occurs, immune cells are recruited to the injury, eliminating the irritation. The excessive inflammatory response can cause harm to the organism. Inflammation has been found to contribute to cervical cancer if there is a problem with the regulation of inflammatory response. Cervical cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors globally, and the incidence tends to be younger. The harm of cervical cancer cannot be ignored. The standard treatments for cervical cancer include surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. However, the prognosis for this treatment is poor, so it is urgent to find a safer and more effective treatment. Natural products are considered excellent candidates for the treatment of cervical cancer. In this review, we first describe the mechanisms by which inflammation induces cervical cancer. Subsequently, we highlight natural products that can treat cervical cancer through inflammatory pathways. We also introduce natural products for the treatment of cervical cancer in clinical trials. Finally, methods to improve the anticancer properties of natural products were added, and the development status of natural products was discussed.

[Epidemiological characteristics of novel coronavirus pneumonia in Shijiazhuang, China]

Objective: To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of an outbreak of novel coronavirus pneumonia (COVID-19) in Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province in 2021 and to provide scientific basis for developing improved strategies to prevent and control the outbreak of COVID-19. Methods: Descriptive analysis of the outbreak of COVID-19 in Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province was performed with SPSS 21.0 and Excel software. The statistical analysis of the incubation period was performed using the rstan package in R4.0.4. Results: As of February 14^th 2021, a total of 942 local confirmed cases were reported in Hebei Province, 869 cases in Shijiazhuang, of which 847 cases were available for case information. This outbreak was mainly in rural areas, with the largest number of confirmed cases in Xiaoguozhuang village, 249 (29.4%); followed by Nanqiaozhai village, 128 (15.1%); and Liujiazuo village, 85 (10.0%). The outbreak lasted from January 2^nd, 2021 to February 14^th, 2021, and was mainly transmitted among the farmers as well as the students through dining parties, public gatherings and family contacts, showing an obvious time and occupation concentration trend. An analysis of 116 local confirmed cases in this outbreak with specific exposure time and onset time indicated that the median incubation period was 6 [interquartile range(IQR): 3.3, 10.0] days; whereas another report including 264 local confirmed cases with specific exposure time window showed that a median incubation period was 8.5 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.8-18.8] days. Conclusions: This outbreak was mainly related to rural areas, and was associated with parties, public gatherings and family gatherings. Self-protection and isolation of key areas and populations at risk should be effectively implemented to avoid close contact and other measures to reduce the occurrence of COVID-19 aggregation. Based on the results of the incubation period of this outbreak, the isolation period could be recommended to be extended to three weeks.

Evaluation of the efficiency of peptide receptor radionuclide therapy in patients with metastatic prostate carcinoma: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Metastatic prostate carcinoma has poor prognoses with a median survival period ranging from 2 to 5 years with existing therapeutic challenges. Currently, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy is permitted as a treatment method for metastatic prostate carcinoma patients. Therefore, it is crucial to comprehend the efficiency and safety of peptide receptor radionuclide therapy among this patient population. This study aims to analyse the efficacy of peptide receptor radionuclide therapy when used to treat metastatic prostate carcinoma patients.

METHODS

This research will perform a methodological search in the following electronic databases to find related randomized controlled trials: Cochrane Library, EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WanFang database, and Chinese BioMedical Literature. All the databases are searched from their inauguration till November 2020. Two independent authors will screen and select literature for review. The two authors will independently utilize the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool to assess the bias risk in studies. This study also plans to conduct subgroup and sensitivity analyses to evaluate the robustness in the results. Statistical analyses will be conducted with the RevMan 5.3 software.

RESULTS

A high-quality synthesis of existing evidence related to peptide receptor radionuclide therapy in the treatment of metastatic prostate carcinoma will be presented in this study.

CONCLUSION

Our findings will provide evidence to judge whether peptide receptor radionuclide treatment is efficient for metastatic prostate carcinoma patients.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

An ethics approval is not required because the data of the present study are primarily obtained from published studies.OSF registration number: December 1, 2020.osf.io/3psx7. (https://osf.io/3psx7/).

[Advances in the application of three-dimensional photothermal functionalized scaffold for bone repairation after maxillofacial tumor surgery]

The traditional treatment of maxillofacial tumors includes surgery and chemoradiotherapy. Surgery carries a high risk,and large bone defects are difficult to repair themselves. Besides, chemoradiotherapy can bring serious side effects. Therefore, how to repair the bone defects after maxillofacial tumor surgery and prevent tumor recurrence has become a major clinical challenge. In recent years, photothermal therapy has attracted much attention because of its low invasion, high efficiency, and no side effects. More and more photothermal materials have emerged and been applied in photothermal therapy. In order to treat tumor-related bone defects, many studies use three-dimensional printing technology to prepare photothermal functionalized scaffold to repair bone defects and prevent the recurrence of tumors. Based on photothermal therapy, the review states the photothermal materials, bone repair materials and photothermal functionalized scaffolds in the treatment of maxillofacial tumors at home and abroad, and provides a new way to solve the clinical challenge of bone defect and tumor recurrence after maxillofacial tumor surgery.

[Clinical characteristics and death risk factors of severe COVID-19]

Objective: To analyze the clinical features and death-related risk factors of COVID-19. Methods: We enrolled 891 COVID-19 patients admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Jianghan University from December 2019 to February 2020, including 427 men and 464 women. Of the 891 cases, 582 were severe or critical, including 423(73%)severe and 159 (27%) critical cases. We compared the demographics, laboratory findings, clinical characteristics, treatments and prognosis data of the 582 severe patients. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to explore the risk factors associated with death in COVID-19 patients. Results: The 582 severe patients included 293 males and 289 females, with a median age of 64(range 24 to 106). Sixty-three patients died, including 45 males and 18 females, with a median age of 71(range 37 to 90). The average onset time of the 582 patients was 8 days, of whom 461 (79%) had fever, 358 (62%) dry cough, 274 (47%) fatigue. There were 206 cases with shortness of breath (35%), 155 cases with expectoration (27%), 83 cases with muscle pain or joint pain (14%), 71 cases with diarrhea (12%), and 29 cases with headache (4%). Underlying diseases were present in 267 (46%) patients, most commonly hypertension (194, 33%), followed by diabetes (69, 12%), coronary atherosclerotic heart disease (37, 6%), tumor (18, 3%), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (5, 1%). Chest CT showed bilateral lung involvement in 505 patients (87%). Upon admission, the median lymphocyte count of the 582 patients was 0.8(IQR, 0.6-1.1)×10(9)/L, the median D-dimer was 0.5 (IQR, 0.4- 0.8) mg/L, the median N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide precursor (NT-proBNP) was 433 (IQR, 141- 806) pg/L, and the median creatinine was 70.3 (IQR, 56.9-87.9) μmol/L. The death group had a median lymphocyte count of 0.5 (0.4-0.8)×10(9)/L, D-dimer 1.1 (0.7-10.0)mg/L, N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide precursor 1479(893-5 087) pg/ml, and creatinine 89.9(67.1-125.3) μmol/L. Multivariate logistic analysis showed that increased D-dimer (OR: 1.095, 95% CI: 1.045-1.148, P<0.001), increased NT-proBNP (OR: 4.759, 95% CI: 2.437-9.291, P<0.001), and decreased lymphocyte count (OR: 0.180, 95% CI: 0.059-0.550, P=0.003) were the risk factors of death in COVID-19 patients. Conclusions: The average onset time of severe COVID-19 was 8 days, and the most common symptoms were fever, dry cough and fatigue. Comorbidities such as hypertension were common and mostly accompanied by impaired organ functions on admission. Higher D-dimer, higher NT-proBNP, and lower lymphocyte count were the independent risk factors of death in COVID-19 patients.

Interactions of Mutiple Biological Fields in Stored Grain Ecosystems

Biological entities such as fungi in stored grain evolve and interact with the environment in similar fashions as physical fields. An experiment was conducted to study the behavior of the biological field of fungi in stored grain, as well as the interactions between the biological field of fungi and the physical fields of temperature and moisture. A framework of the biological field is presented to describe biological systems in which multiple biological entities co-exist and interact among themselves and with the surrounding environment. The proposed biological field describes the spatio-temporal distribution of a biological entity and its ability of influencing (or being influenced by) the surrounding biotic and abiotic entities through exchange of energy, matter, and/or information. The strength of a biological field of fungi was quantified as the rate of energy conversion by fungi from grain starch to heat. The experimental data showed that the strength of biological field of fungi in stored grain varied in both space and time, with the maximum field strength of 120-133 W m-3 occurred at the location where the biological field of fungi interacted strongly with the temperature and moisture fields.

[Preliminary study of the relationship between novel coronavirus pneumonia and liver function damage: a multicenter study]

Objective: To analyze the clinical characteristics of cases of novel coronavirus pneumonia and a preliminary study to explore the relationship between different clinical classification and liver damage. Methods: Consecutively confirmed novel coronavirus infection cases admitted to seven designated hospitals during January 23, 2020 to February 8, 2020 were included. Clinical classification (mild, moderate, severe, and critical) was carried out according to the diagnosis and treatment program of novel coronavirus pneumonia (Trial Fifth Edition) issued by the National Health Commission. The research data were analyzed using SPSS19.0 statistical software. Quantitative data were expressed as median (interquartile range), and qualitative data were expressed as frequency and rate. Results: 32 confirmed cases that met the inclusion criteria were included. 28 cases were of mild or moderate type (87.50%), and four cases (12.50%) of severe or critical type. Four cases (12.5%) were combined with one underlying disease (bronchial asthma, coronary heart disease, malignant tumor, chronic kidney disease), and one case (3.13%) was simultaneously combined with high blood pressure and malignant tumor. The results of laboratory examination showed that the alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), albumin (ALB), and total bilirubin (TBil) for entire cohort were 26.98 (16.88 ~ 46.09) U/L and 24.75 (18.71 ~ 31.79) U/L, 39.00 (36.20 ~ 44.20) g/L and 16.40 (11.34 ~ 21.15) μmol/L, respectively. ALT, AST, ALB and TBil of the mild or moderate subgroups were 22.75 (16.31 ~ 37.25) U/L, 23.63 (18.71 ~ 26.50) U/L, 39.70 (36.50 ~ 46.10) g/L, and 15.95 (11.34 ~ 20.83) μmol/L, respectively. ALT, AST, ALB and TBil of the severe or critical subgroups were 60.25 (40.88 ~ 68.90) U/L, 37.00 (20.88 ~ 64.45) U/L, 35.75 (28.68 ~ 42.00) g/L, and 20.50 (11.28 ~ 25.00) μmol/L, respectively. Conclusion: The results of this multicenter retrospective study suggests that novel coronavirus pneumonia combined with liver damage is more likely to be caused by adverse drug reactions and systemic inflammation in severe patients receiving medical treatment. Therefore, liver function monitoring and evaluation should be strengthened during the treatment of such patients.

[Effect of traditional Chinese medicine in improving human health by regulating bacterial quorum sensing system]

Quorum sensing(QS) is one of the research hotspots in the fields of microbiology and medicine in recent years. Quorum sensing is a cell communication regulatory system, which is used by bacterial flora to pass on information of population density by sensing specific signaling molecules to the environment. The QS system of bacteria can impact biological functions, such as bacterial growth, proliferation, biofilm formation, virulence factor production, antibiotic synthesis, and ultimately adapt the bacteria to environmental changes. At present, more and more active ingredients can regulate quorum sensing have been found in traditional Chinese medicines(TCM). TCM and their active ingredients can promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, inhibit the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria and finally achieve the purpose of treating diseases. It embodies multi-pathway and multi-target characteristics of traditional Chinese medicine. This article first introduces molecular types and regulation mechanisms of quorum sensing signals between bacteria. On this basis, the human health-related bacterial quorum sensing is summarized, and the regulatory effect of TCM on bacterial quorum sensing system is discussed. Finally, it is noted that the material basis and mechanisms of TCM in improving human health through bacterial quorum sensing system are still unclear. Future research hotspots will focus on quorum sensing active substances, quorum sensing key nodes and relevant targets. In a word, this article provides reference for the treatment of relevant diseases.

Water extract from processed Polygonum multiflorum modulate gut microbiota and glucose metabolism on insulin resistant rats

Background

The incidence of insulin resistance (IR) has rapidly increased worldwide over the last 20 years, no perfect solution has yet been identified. Finding new therapeutic drugs will help improve this situation. As a traditional Chinese medicine, PPM (processed Polygonum multiflorum) has widely been used in the clinic. Recently, other clinical functions of PPM have been widely analyzed.

Results

Administration of the water extract from PPM decreased the level of FBG, TC, and TG, and increased the level of FGC, thereby reducing the IR index and improving IR. Furthermore, Western blot analysis revealed that PPM significantly increased GPR43 and AMPK expression when compared with the MOD group, and GPR43, AMPK were known as glucose metabolism-related proteins. In addition, treatment with PPM can restore the balance of gut microbiota by adjusting the relative abundance of bacteria both at the phylum and genus level, and these changes have been reported to be related to IR.

Methods

Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were fed a high-fat diet and were gavaged daily with either normal saline solution or PPM for 12 weeks. Major biochemical indexes, such as fasting blood glucose (FBG), fasting glucagon (FGC), total cholesterol (TC), and triglyceride (TG) were measured. Then the protein expression of adenosine 5′-monophosphate -activated protein kinase (AMPK) and G protein-coupled receptor 43 (GPR43) was evaluated by using Western blot analysis. Moreover, the composition of gut microbiota was assessed by analyzing 16S rRNA sequences.

Conclusions

Our findings showed that PPM reversed the increasing of FBG and the decreasing of IRI, PPM accelerated the expression of glucose metabolism-related proteins and regulated the intestinal microecological balance. Therefore, we hold the opinion that PPM may be an effective option for treating IR.

[Clinical characteristics of 30 medical workers infected with new coronavirus pneumonia]

Objective: To investigate the clinical characteristics of medical staff with novel coronavirus pneumonia(NCP). Methods: 30 patients infected with novel coronavirus referred to jianghan university hospital between January 11, 2020 and January 3, 2020 were studied. The data reviewed included those of clinical manifestations, laboratory investigation and Radiographic features. Results: The patients consisted of 10 men and 20 women, including 22 doctors and 8 nurses,aged 21~59 years(mean 35±8 years).They were divided to 26 common type and 4 severe cases, all of whom had close(within 1m) contact with patients infected of novel coronavirus pneumonia. The average contact times were 12 (7,16) and the average cumulative contact time was 2 (1.5,2.7) h.Clinical symptoms of these patients were fever in 23 patients (76.67%) , headache in 16 petients (53.33%) , fatigue or myalgia in 21patients (70%) , nausea, vomiting or diarrhea in 9 petients (30%) , cough in 25 petients (83.33%) , and dyspnea in 14 petients (46.67%) .Routine blood test revealed WBC<4.0×10(9)/L in 8 petients (26.67%) , (4-10) ×10(9)/L in 22 petients (73.33%) , and WBC>4.0×10(9)/L in 4 petients (13.33%) during the disease.Lymphocyte count<1.0×10(9)/L occurred in 12 petients (40%),abnormal liver function in 7 petients (23.33%) ,myocardial damage in 5 petients(16.67%), elevated D-dimer (>0.5mg/l) in 5 patients (16.67%). Compared with normal patients, the average exposure times, cumulative exposure time, BMI, Fever time, white blood cell count, liver enzyme, LDH, myoenzyme and D-dimer were significantly increased in severe patients, while the lymphocyte count and albumin levels in peripheral blood were significantly decreased.Chest CT mainly showed patchy shadows and interstitial changes.According to imaging examination, 11 patients (36.67%) showed Unilateral pneumonia and 19 patients (63.33%) showed bilateral pneumonia,4 patients (13.33%) showed bilateral multiple mottling and ground-glass opacity.Compared with the patients infected in the protected period, the proportion of severe infection and bilateral pneumonia were both increased in the patients infected in unprotected period. Conclusion: Medical staffs are at higher risk of infection.Infection rates are associated with contact time, the amount of suction virus. Severe patients had BMI increased, heating time prolonged, white blood cell count, lymphocyte count, D-dimer and albumin level significantly changed and were prone to be complicated with liver damage and myocardial damage.Strict protection measures is important to prevent infection for medical workers.

[Clinical characteristics of 30 medical workers infected with new coronavirus pneumonia]

Objective: To investigate the clinical characteristics of medical staff with novel coronavirus pneumonia(NCP). Methods: 30 patients infected with novel coronavirus referred to jianghan university hospital between January 11, 2020 and January 3, 2020 were studied. The data reviewed included those of clinical manifestations, laboratory investigation and Radiographic features. Results: The patients consisted of 10 men and 20 women, including 22 doctors and 8 nurses,aged 21~59 years(mean 35±8 years).They were divided to 26 common type and 4 severe cases, all of whom had close(within 1m) contact with patients infected of novel coronavirus pneumonia. The average contact times were 12 (7,16) and the average cumulative contact time was 2 (1.5,2.7) h.Clinical symptoms of these patients were fever in 23 patients (76.67%) , headache in 16 petients (53.33%) , fatigue or myalgia in 21patients (70%) , nausea, vomiting or diarrhea in 9 petients (30%) , cough in 25 petients (83.33%) , and dyspnea in 14 petients (46.67%) .Routine blood test revealed WBC <4.0×10(9)/L in 8 petients (26.67%) , (4-10) ×10(9)/L in 22 petients (73.33%) , and WBC>4.0×10(9)/L in 4 petients (13.33%) during the disease.Lymphocyte count <1.0×10(9)/L occurred in 12 petients (40%),abnormal liver function in 7 petients (23.33%) ,myocardial damage in 5 petients(16.67%), elevated D-dimer (>0.5mg/l) in 5 patients (16.67%). Compared with normal patients, the average exposure times, cumulative exposure time, BMI, Fever time, white blood cell count, liver enzyme, LDH, myoenzyme and D-dimer were significantly increased in severe patients, while the lymphocyte count and albumin levels in peripheral blood were significantly decreased.Chest CT mainly showed patchy shadows and interstitial changes.According to imaging examination, 11 patients (36.67%) showed Unilateral pneumonia and 19 patients (63.33%) showed bilateral pneumonia,4 patients (13.33%) showed bilateral multiple mottling and ground-glass opacity.Compared with the patients infected in the protected period, the proportion of severe infection and bilateral pneumonia were both increased in the patients infected in unprotected period. Conclusion: Medical staffs are at higher risk of infection.Infection rates are associated with contact time, the amount of suction virus. Severe patients had BMI increased, heating time prolonged , white blood cell count, lymphocyte count, D-dimer and albumin level significantly changed and were prone to be complicated with liver damage and myocardial damage.Strict protection measures is important to prevent infection for medical workers.

[Efficacy of double-incision extracapsular cataract extraction in the treatment of hard-nucleus cataract with low corneal endothelial cell density]

Objective: To discuss the efficacy and security of double-incision extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) in the treatment of hard-nucleus cataract with low corneal endothelial cell density. Methods: This was a retrospective case series study. Forty-six patients (47 eyes) with hard-nucleus cataract and low corneal endothelial cell density were enrolled at Shandong Eye Hospital from June 2009 to December 2018, including 22 males and 24 females, aged 50 to 74 (63.8±6.3) years. Preoperative corneal endothelial cell density was less than 1 000 cells/mm(2), and the cataract nuclear hardness was equal to or greater than grade IV. According to the surgical methods, the patients were divided into the single-incision ECCE group (24 eyes) and the double-incision ECCE group (23 eyes). The surgical procedures for the double-incision group were as follows. First, a superior scleral pre-incision was made. Then the conventional capsulorhexis was conducted through a 2.6 mm transparent corneal tunnel incision at the temporal or the nasal side, after which the hydro-dissection was performed. Next, the surgeon cut the pre-incision at the sclera, delivered the lens nucleus, sutured the scleral incision and removed the residual cortical materials from the corneal incision. Finally, a foldable intraocular lens was implanted, and the viscoelastic substance was removed. The intraoperative anterior chamber condition and the postoperative corneal edema condition were monitored. During the 6 month follow-up after surgeries, the endothelium cell density, visual acuity and astigmatism in the two groups were compared. The χ(2) test was used to compare the counting data, and the t test was used to compare the measurement data. Results: There was no statistically significant difference (t=1.12, P=0.28) in the preoperative corneal endothelial cell density between the double-incision and single-incision ECCE groups, which was (827±164) cells/mm(2) and (802±121) cells/mm(2), respectively. At 6 months after operation, in the double-incision and single-incision groups, the endothelial cell density was (793±147) cells/mm(2) and (706±101) cells/mm(2), respectively, and the difference was statistically significant (t=4.37, P<0.01). The percentage of corneal endothelial cell loss was 4.16%±3.12% and 11.69%±2.96%, respectively, and the difference was also statistically significant (t=9.52, P<0.01). The hexagon loss rate of corneal endothelial cells was 9.67%±6.11% and 28.33%±8.39%, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant (t=5.52, P<0.05). In the follow-up of 6 months, none of the eyes in the double-incision ECCE group suffered corneal endothelial decompensation compared with 3 eyes in the single-incision ECCE group. There were no statistically significant differences in postoperative astigmatism and surgically induced astigmatism between the two groups (t=-0.71, 0.15; P>0.05). Conclusions: The double-incision ECCE, in which the lens nucleus is delivered through a scleral incision and other procedures are conducted through a corneal tunnel incision, is safe and effective for cataract patients with hard nucleus and low corneal endothelial cell density. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2020, 56: 126-130).

Adrenomedullin: an important participant in neurological diseases

Adrenomedullin, a peptide with multiple physiological functions in nervous system injury and disease, has aroused the interest of researchers. This review summarizes the role of adrenomedullin in neuropathological disorders, including pathological pain, brain injury and nerve regeneration, and their treatment. As a newly characterized pronociceptive mediator, adrenomedullin has been shown to act as an upstream factor in the transmission of noxious information for various types of pathological pain including acute and chronic inflammatory pain, cancer pain, neuropathic pain induced by spinal nerve injury and diabetic neuropathy. Initiation of glia-neuron signaling networks in the peripheral and central nervous system by adrenomedullin is involved in the formation and maintenance of morphine tolerance. Adrenomedullin has been shown to exert a facilitated or neuroprotective effect against brain injury including hemorrhagic or ischemic stroke and traumatic brain injury. Additionally, adrenomedullin can serve as a regulator to promote nerve regeneration in pathological conditions. Therefore, adrenomedullin is an important participant in nervous system diseases.

Mitochondrial metabolomic profiling for elucidating the alleviating potential of Polygonatum kingianum against high-fat diet-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND

Developing mitochondrial regulators/nutrients from natural products to remedy mitochondrial dysfunction represent attractive strategies for therapy of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Polygonatum kingianum (PK) has been traditionally used in China as a medicinal and nutritional ingredient for centuries and can alleviate high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NAFLD by promoting mitochondrial functions. To date, the underlying molecular mechanism of PK for treating mitochondrial dysfunctions and thus alleviating NAFLD remains unclear.

AIM

To identify the molecular mechanism behind the mitochondrial regulatory action of PK against HFD-induced NAFLD in rats.

METHODS

NAFLD model was induced in rats with HFD. The rats were intragastrically administered PK (4 g/kg per day) for 14 wk. Metabolites in hepatic mitochondrial samples were profiled through ultra-high performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry followed by multivariate statistical analysis to find the potential biomarkers and metabolic pathways.

RESULTS

PK significantly restored the metabolites’ levels in the mitochondrial samples. Ten potential biomarkers were identified in the analyzed samples. These biomarkers are involved in riboflavin metabolism.

CONCLUSION

PK can alleviate HFD-induced NAFLD by regulating the riboflavin metabolism and further improving the mitochondrial functions. Thus, PK is a promising mitochondrial regulator/nutrient for alleviating NAFLD-associated diseases.

Mitochondrial dysfunction in high-fat diet-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: The alleviating effect and its mechanism of Polygonatum kingianum

BACKGROUND

Mitochondrial dysfunction is an important mechanism of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Developing mitochondrial regulators/nutrients from natural products to remedy mitochondrial dysfunction represent attractive strategies for NAFLD therapy. In China, Polygonatum kingianum (PK) has been used as a herb and food nutrient for centuries. So far, studies in which the effects of PK on NAFLD are evaluated are lacking. Our study aims at identifying the effects and mechanism of action of PK on NAFLD based on mitochondrial regulation.

METHODS

A NAFLD rat model was induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) and rats were intragastrically given PK (1, 2 and 4 g/kg) for 14 weeks. Changes in body weight, food intake, histological parameters, organ indexes, biochemical parameters and mitochondrial indicators involved in oxidative stress, energy metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, and apoptosis were investigated.

RESULTS

PK significantly inhibited the HFD-induced increase of alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, total cholesterol (TC), and low density lipoprotein cholesterol in serum, and TC and triglyceride in the liver. In addition, PK reduced high density lipoprotein cholesterol and liver enlargement without affecting food intake. PK also remarkably inhibited the HFD-induced increase of malondialdehyde and the reduction of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, ATP synthase, and complex I and II, in mitochondria. Moreover, mRNA expression of carnitine palmitoyl transferase-1 and uncoupling protein-2 was significantly up-regulated and down-regulated after PK treatment, respectively. Finally, PK notably inhibited the HFD-induced increase of caspase 9, caspase 3 and Bax expression in hepatocytes, and the decrease of expression of Bcl-2 in hepatocytes and cytchrome c in mitochondria.

CONCLUSION

PK alleviated HFD-induced NAFLD by promoting mitochondrial functions. Thus, PK may be useful mitochondrial regulators/nutrients to remedy mitochondrial dysfunction and alleviate NAFLD.

Clinical Study on 136 Children with Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Background:

The prevalence of sudden sensorineural hearing loss in children (CSSNHL) is consistently increasing. However, the pathology and prognosis of CSSNHL are still poorly understood. This retrospective study evaluated clinical characteristics and possible associated factors of CSSNHL.

Methods:

One hundred and thirty-six CSSNHL patients treated in Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and Institute of Otolaryngology at Chinese PLA General Hospital between July 2008 and August 2015 were included in this study. These patients were analyzed for clinical characteristics, audiological characteristics, laboratory examinations, and prognostic factors.

Results:

Among the 136 patients (151 ears), 121 patients (121 ears, 80.1%) were diagnosed with unilaterally CSSNHL, and 15 patients (30 ears, 19.9%) with bilateral CSSNHL. The complete recovery rate of CSSNHL was 9.3%, and the overall recovery rate was 37.7%. We found that initial degree of hearing loss, onset of treatment, tinnitus, the ascending type audiogram, gender, side of hearing loss, the recorded auditory brainstem response (ABR), and distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) had prognostic significance. Age, ear fullness, and vertigo had no significant correlation with recovery. Furthermore, the relevant blood tests showed 30.8% of the children had abnormal white blood cell (WBC) counts, 22.1% had elevated homocysteine levels, 65.8% had high alkaline phosphatase (ALP), 33.8% had high IgE antibody levels, and 86.1% had positive cytomegalovirus (CMV) IgG antibodies.

Conclusions:

CSSNHL commonly occurs unilaterally and results in severe hearing loss. Initial severe hearing loss and bilateral hearing loss are negative prognostic factors for hearing recovery, while positive prognostic factors include tinnitus, gender, the ascending type audiogram, early treatment, identifiable ABR waves, and DPOAEs. Age, vertigo, and ear fullness are not correlated with the recovery. Some serologic indicators, including the level of WBC, platelet, homocysteine, ALP, positive CMV IgG antibody, fibrinogen, and some immunologic indicators, are closely related to CSSNHL.

Association between Toll-like receptor 9 gene polymorphisms and risk of bacterial meningitis in a Chinese population

We determined whether two common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the Toll-like receptor 9 gene (TLR9) (TLR9+2848 rs352140 and TLR9-1237 rs5743836) influenced susceptibility to bacterial meningitis in a Chinese population. The study comprised 126 patients with bacterial meningitis and 252 control subjects, all of whom were recruited from the Tuberculosis Hospital of Shanxi Province. Genotyping of TLR9+2848 rs352140 and TLR9-1237 rs5743836 was performed by polymerase chain reaction coupled with restriction fragment length polymorphism. Using logistic regression analysis, we found that individuals with the AA genotype were associated with an increased risk of bacterial meningitis compared with those with the GG genotype (OR = 0.43, 95%CI = 0.19-0.95; P = 0.03). In a recessive model, the AA genotype was correlated with an elevated risk of bacterial meningitis compared with the GG+GA genotype (OR = 0.49, 95%CI = 0.22-0.99; P = 0.04). However, no significant differences were observed in the association between the TLR9-1237 rs5743836 polymorphism and the risk of bacterial meningitis in the codominant, dominant, or recessive models. In conclusion, the results of our study suggest an association between the TLR9+2848 polymorphism and a reduced risk of bacterial meningitis in the codominant and recessive models.

Performance of the Plusoptix A09 photoscreener in detecting amblyopia risk factors in Chinese children attending an eye clinic

Purpose

To assess the accuracy of the Plusoptix A09 photoscreener in detecting amblyopia risk factors in children and determine referral criteria when using Plusoptix A09 for a large-scale vision screening.

Methods

Pediatric patients attending our eye clinic underwent a comprehensive ophthalmic examination that included photorefraction, orthoptic examination, anterior segment assessment, fundus examination and cycloplegic retinoscopy. The measurements were collected for statistical analyses.

Results

One hundred and seventy-eight children (mean age ± SD: 6.2±2.4 years, range: 2.2 to 14.1 years) were included in the study. The mean spherical equivalent (SE) obtained using Plusoptix A09 (P_SE) was 0.57 D lower than that obtained from cycloplegic retinoscopy (CR_SE) (P = 0.00). However, there was no statistically significant difference of Jackson cross cylinder J₀ and J₄₅ between Plusoptix A09 (P_J) and cycloplegic retinoscopy (CR_J) (P = 0.14, P = 0.26). The relationship of SE obtained from Plusoptix A09 and SE obtained from cycloplegic retinoscopy was presented as the equation: CR_SE = 0.358 + 0.776 P_SE + 0.064 P_SE² + 0.011 P_SE³. Based on the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve, the Plusoptix A09 had an overall sensitivity of 94.9% and specificity of 67.5% for detecting refractive amblyopia risk factors. The sensitivity and specificity of the Plusoptix A09 for detection of strabismus were 40.7% and 98.3%, respectively; detection of amblyopia and/or strabismus was 84.7% and 63.2%, respectively.

Conclusions

The Plusoptix A09 photoscreener underestimated hyperopia and overestimated myopia according to SE when compared with cycloplegic retinoscopy. The accuracy of the Plusoptix A09 in detecting amblyopia risk factors in children could be improved by the regression equation and optimized criteria for refractive amblyopia risk factors developed in the present study. Moreover, the Plusoptix A09 photoscreener is not suitable for a large-scale strabismus screening when it is applied solely.

Genomic cloning, expression, and single nucleotide polymorphism association analysis of the insulin-like androgenic gland hormone gene in the oriental river prawn (Macrobrachium nipponense)

Increasing evidence suggests that the insulin-like androgenic gland hormone (IAG) gene plays an important role in male sexual differentiation, metabolism, and growth in crustaceans. In the present study, we isolated the full-length genome sequence of IAG by genome walking based on the cDNA sequence in Macrobrachium nipponense. Four novel single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were studied, including 509G>T, 529G>T, 590A>T in intron 1, and 2226A>G in intron 2. The association of genetic variation with growth traits [body length (BL) and body weight (BW)] was analyzed. Individuals with GG geno- type at locus 2226A>G maintained higher mean BL (P < 0.01) and BW (P < 0.05) than AA and GA individuals. These results suggest that IAG SNPs may be useful molecular markers for selecting growth traits in M. nipponense.

COI barcode based species-specific primers for identification of five species of stored-product pests from genus Cryptolestes (Coleoptera: Laemophloeidae)

Flat grain beetles of the genus Cryptolestes (Coleoptera: Laemophloeidae) are one of the economically most important stored-product pests which feed on many kinds of agricultural products, especially grains. Nine of more than 40 described Cryptolestes species are recognized as stored-product pests and two of the pest species have a cosmopolitan distribution. Given the rapid growth in global trade of food products, ecological barriers to the spread of pests are easily overcome. Therefore, development of reliable systems for routine quarantine inspection and early infestation detection is vital. In the present study, we established a new rapid and accurate cytochrome c oxidase subunit I-based system for molecular identification of five common stored-product Cryptolestes species, namely, Cryptolestes capensis, Cryptolestes ferrugineus, Cryptolestes pusilloides, Cryptolestes pusillus and Cryptolestes turcicus. Five species-specific primer pairs for traditional uniplex polymerase chain reaction assay are described and their specificity and sensitivity for the identification process is evaluated using larval samples of 12 different populations from three continents (Asia, Europe and North America).

DNA barcoding of five common stored-product pest species of genus Cryptolestes (Coleoptera: Laemophloeidae)

Several species of the genus Cryptolestes Ganglbauer, 1899 (Coleoptera: Laemophloeidae) are commonly found in stored products. In this study, five species of Cryptolestes, with almost worldwide distribution, were obtained from laboratories in China, Czech Republic and the USA: Cryptolestes ferrugineus (Stephens, 1831), Cryptolestes pusillus (Schönherr, 1817), Cryptolestes turcicus (Grouvelle, 1876), Cryptolestes pusilloides (Steel & Howe, 1952) and Cryptolestes capensis (Waltl, 1834). Molecular identification based on a 658 bp fragment from the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) was adopted to overcome some problems of morphological identification of Cryptolestes species. The utility of COI sequences as DNA barcodes in discriminating the five Cryptolestes species was evaluated on adults and larvae by analysing Kimura 2-parameter distances, phylogenetic tree and haplotype networks. The results showed that molecular approaches based on DNA barcodes were able to accurately identify these species. This is the first study using DNA barcoding to identify Cryptolestes species and the gathered DNA sequences will complement the biological barcode database.

Prognostic significance of Flotillin1 expression in clinically N0 tongue squamous cell cancer

PURPOSE

The present study aimed to investigate the clinical and prognostic significance of Flotillin1 (FLOT1) in clinically N0 tongue squamous cell cancer (cN0 TSCC).

METHODS

Real-time PCR and Western blotting analyses were carried out to examine FLOT1 expression in four tongue squamous cell cancer cell lines, primary cultured normal tongue epithelial cells, and eight matched pairs of oral tongue cancer samples and adjacent non-cancerous tissue samples from the same patient. Immunohistochemistry was performed to examine FLOT1 protein expression in paraffin-embedded tissues from 181 cN0 TSCC patients. Statistical analyses evaluated the diagnostic value and the associations of FLOT1 expression with clinical parameters.

RESULTS

FLOT1 mRNA and protein levels were upregulated in tongue squamous cell cancer cell lines and cancerous tissues compared with that in TEC and adjacent non-cancerous tissue samples. The level of FLOT1 protein was positively correlated with clinical stage (P = 0.001), T classification (P = 0.009), N classification (P = 0.001) and recurrence (P = 0.018). Patients with higher FLOT1 expression had shorter overall survival times.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that overexpression of FLOT1 can be found in patients with higher pathological stage, T classification, N classification or recurrence. FLOT1 expression is associated with cN0 TSCC progression and may be valuable for the prognostic evaluation of cN0 TSCC.

Emerging roles for the FCRL family members in lymphocyte biology and disease

Members of the extended Fc receptor-like (FCRL) family in humans and mice are preferentially expressed by B cells and possess tyrosine-based immunoregulatory function. Although the majority of these proteins repress B cell receptor-mediated activation, there is an emerging evidence for their bifunctionality and capacity to counter-regulate adaptive and innate signaling pathways. In light of these findings, the recent discovery of ligands for several of these molecules has begun to reveal exciting potential for them in normal lymphocyte biology and is launching a new phase of FCRL investigation. Importantly, these fundamental developments are also setting the stage for defining their altered roles in the pathogenesis of a growing number of immune-mediated diseases. Here we review recent advances in the FCRL field and highlight the significance of these intriguing receptors in normal and perturbed immunobiology.

Impact fracture toughness and morphology of polypropylene/Mg(OH)2 composites

Magnesium hydroxide [Mg(OH)2] with high flame retardant efficiency filled polypropylene (PP) composites were prepared using a twin-screw extruder. The impact fracture behavior of the composites was measured at room temperature. It was found that the toughening effect of the filler content on the PP resin was significant. The V-notched Izod impact strength of the PP/Mg(OH)2 composites showed a nonlinear increase with increase in filler weight fraction (ϕf), as ϕf was <15%, and then it decreased slightly; When ϕf was <15%, the V-notched Charpy impact strength of the PP/Mg(OH)2 composite also increased nonlinearly, then it decreased slightly. The impact fracture surface was observed by means of a scanning electronic microscope, to understand the toughening mechanisms for the composite systems.

Development of high-speed and wide-angle visible observation diagnostics on Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak using catadioptric optics

A new wide-angle endoscope for visible light observation on the Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) has been recently developed. The head section of the optical system is based on a mirror reflection design that is similar to the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor-like wide-angle observation diagnostic on the Joint European Torus. However, the optical system design has been simplified and improved. As a result, the global transmittance of the system is as high as 79.6% in the wavelength range from 380 to 780 nm, and the spatial resolution is <5 mm for the full depth of field (4000 mm). The optical system also has a large relative aperture (1:2.4) and can be applied in high-speed camera diagnostics. As an important diagnostic tool, the optical system has been installed on the HT-7 (Hefei Tokamak-7) for its final experimental campaign, and the experiments confirmed that it can be applied to the investigation of transient processes in plasma, such as ELMy eruptions in H-mode, on EAST.

[Comparative measurements of exodeviations in intermittent exotropia]

OBJECTIVE

To compare the results of 4 methods for measuring angle of exodeviation including when fixating at indoor distance target of 6m, fixating at outdoor far distance target, after 1 hour diagnostic occlusion test (1h-DOT), and prism adaption test (PAT), in patients with intermittent exotropia.

METHODS

Prospective case series study. Inpatients with intermittent exotropia was recruited from Sep 2011 to May 2012 in the Eye Center of Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University. Fifty involved patients included 26 males and 24 females with average age (10.1 ± 6.9) years. Prism and alternative cover test was used to evaluate the exodeviation on the primary position in patients with intermittent exotropia. All the patients were measured when fixating at indoor distance target of 6m and near target of 33 cm, fixating at outdoor far distance target, after 1h-DOT, and PAT. The mean deviations measured with 4 methods for distance and 3 methods for near were analysed statistically with levene test. LSD test was applied to compare the differences between each two methods. Positive increased angle of exodeviation was defined as equal to and more than 10 prism diopters (PD) when tested with fixating at outdoor far distance target, after 1h-DOT, and PAT, compared with the results of primary measurement of fixating at indoor distance target of 6 m and near target of 33 cm. A Chi-square test was applied to compare the distribution of sub-types of intermittent exotropia in 4 methods of measuring angle of exodeviation.

RESULTS

(1) The exodeviations tested with fixating at indoor distance target of 6 m, after 1h-DOT, fixating at outdoor far distance target, and PAT were (28.2 ± 8.4), (30.8 ± 9.7), (32.3 ± 8.8), (36.5 ± 9.5) PD, respectively (F = 7.235, P = 0.000) . The exodeviation tested with fixating at outdoor far distance target (P = 0.027) and PAT (P = 0.000) were greater than that tested with the primary measurement of fixating at indoor distance target of 6m. There are no significant difference between the exodeviation tested after 1h-DOT and that tested with fixating at indoor distance target of 6 m (P = 0.164) . Compared with the primary measurement of fixating at indoor distance target of 6 m, the increased angles of deviation measured with the methods of after 1 h-DOT, fixating at outdoor far distance target, and PAT were (2.5 ± 3.7), (4.1 ± 3.7), and (8.3 ± 4.3) PD, with positive rate of increased angles of deviation 8%, 16%, and 44%, respectively. The exodeviations tested with the primary measurement fixating at near target of 33 cm, after 1h-DOT, PAT were (29.7 ± 8.0), (35.3 ± 9.5) and (41.6 ± 10.5) PD, respectively. The exodeviations tested with fixating at near target of 33 cm after 1h-DOT (P = 0.003) and PAT (P = 0.000) were greater than that tested with the primary measurement. (2) Compared with the primary measurement of fixating at indoor near target of 33 cm, the increased angles of deviation measured with the methods of after 1h-DOT and PAT were (5.6 ± 4.7) and (11.8 ± 6.7) PD, with positive rate of increased angles of deviation 38% and 66%, respectively. (3) The distributions of intermittent exotropia sub-types tested with evaluation of fixating at indoor targets of 6 m and 33 cm, outdoor target of far distance and indoor target of 33 cm, indoor targets of 6 m and 33 cm after 1h-DOT, and indoor targets of 6 m and 33 cm with PAT have significant difference (χ(2) = 18.53, P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Both the measurement with fixating at outdoor far distance target and the measurement with PAT can elicit larger angle of exodeviations for distance, while both the measurement after 1h-DOT and the measurement with PAT can elicit larger angle of exodeviations for near in patients with intermittent exotropia. The measurement with PAT can elicit the maximal angle of exodeviations both for distance and for near in patients intermittent exotropia.

Co-expression of VpROMT gene from Chinese wild Vitis pseudoreticulata with VpSTS in tobacco plants and its effects on the accumulation of pterostilbene

Plant secondary metabolites, such as stilbenes, have fungicidal potential and have been found in several plant species. Stilbenes in grapevine, such as resveratrol and pterostilbene, have recently attracted much attention, they are not only helping the plant to fight against pathogen attack, but they are also being widely used as ingredients of fungicide, anti-inflammatory drugs, antioxidant, and anti-infective agents. However, resveratrol O-methyltransferase gene, related with the synthesis of pterostilbene from resveratrol, has not been characterized effectively from Chinese wild Vitis pseudoreticulata. In this study, a candidate of resveratrol O-methyltransferase gene designated as VpROMT was isolated from a powdery mildew-resistant Chinese wild V. pseudoreticulata 'Baihe-35-1', and characterization studies were performed. Expression studies showed that VpROMT was predominantly expressed in developing roots yet not found in the leaves, stems, nor tendrils when the plants are not challenged. Results of qRT-PCR showed that VpROMT was rapidly induced by Erysiphe necator in V. pseudoreticulata and by methyl-jasmonate, UV-irradiation in suspension culture cells of Vitis romanetii. The expression level varies in different tissues of grapevine, which MeJA and UV-C treatment significantly upregulated the expression of VpROMT gene while UV-B treatment failed to. Co-expression of VpROMT and grapevine stilbene synthase (VpSTS) gene leads to the accumulation of pterostilbene in leaves of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) indicating that VpROMT was able to catalyze the biosynthesis of pterostilbene from resveratrol in over-expression transgenic tobacco plants.

A meta-analysis of tea drinking and risk of Parkinson's disease

Background. Many studies have reported an association between tea drinking and Parkinson's disease (PD). Our purpose is to summarize the available information and evaluate the risk of PD associated with tea drinking. Methods. We searched all publications in English language on the association of tea drinking and PD risk published up to December 2010. The pooled analysis was performed with Review Manager 5.0. Results. In total, eight articles including 1418 cases and 4250 controls were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled odds ratio (95% CI) was 0.85 (0.74–0.98), which suggests the protective effect of tea drinking in PD risks. Moreover, the summary OR (OR: 0.83, 95% CI = 0.69–0.99) for drinkers of ≤1 cup of tea per day versus nonconsumers and that (OR: 0.96, 95% CI = 0.73–1.27) for drinkers of >1 cups of tea per day versus nonconsumers showed that there was not an apparent dose-response relationship. No indication for publication bias was found. Conclusions. This meta-analysis showed that tea drinking can lower the risk of PD, while no apparent dose-response relationship was found. Further effort is needed to fully understand the mechanism underlying the beneficial effect of tea consumption in lowering PD risk.

Enhancement of hyperthermia-induced apoptosis by a free radical initiator, 2,2'-azobis (2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride, in human histiocytic lymphoma U937 cells

To elucidate the mechanism how a free radical initiator, 2,2'-azobis (2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH), induces cell death at hyperthermic temperatures, apoptosis in a human histiocytic lymphoma cell line, U937, was investigated. Free radical formation deriving from the thermal decomposition of AAPH was examined by spin trapping with 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline-N-oxide (DMPO). An assay for DNA fragmentation, observation of nuclear morphological changes, and flow cytometry for phosphatidylserine (PS) externalization were used to detect apoptosis and revealed enhancement of 44.0 degrees C hyperthermia-induced apoptosis by free radicals due to AAPH. However, free radicals alone derived from AAPH did not induce apoptosis. Hyperthermia induced the production of lipid peroxidation (LPO), an increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and enhanced expression of the type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R1). The effects of hyperthermia on LPO and [Ca2+]i were enhanced markedly by the combination with AAPH. A significant decrease in Bcl-2 expression, increase in Bax expression, a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (delta psi m) and a marked increase in cytochrome c expression were found only in cells treated with hyperthermia and AAPH. Although an intracellular Ca2+ ion chelator, BAPTA-AM, completely inhibited DNA fragmentation, water-soluble vitamin E, Trolox, only partially suppressed DNA fragmentation and the increase in [Ca2+]i. In contrast, LPO was inhibited completely by Trolox, but no inhibition by BAPTA-AM was found. These results suggest that apoptosis induced by hyperthermia alone is due to the increase in [Ca2+]i arising from increased expression of IP3R1 and LPO. Additional increase in [Ca2+]i due to increased LPO and the activation of mitochondria-caspase dependent pathway play a major role in the enhancement of apoptosis by the combination with hyperthermia and AAPH.

Apoptosis induced by cadmium in human lymphoma U937 cells through Ca2+-calpain and caspase-mitochondria- dependent pathways

Apoptosis induced by cadmium has been shown in many tissues in vivo and in cultured cells in vitro. However, its molecular mechanism is not fully understood. When the human histiocytic lymphoma cell line U937 was treated with cadmium for 12 h, evidence of apoptotic features, including change in nuclear morphology, DNA fragmentation, formation of DNA ladder in agarose gel electrophoresis, and phosphatidylserine externalization, were obtained. Moreover, loss of the mitochondrial membrane potential (Deltapsi(m)) was observed in the cadmium-treated cells and was inhibited by a broad caspase inhibitor (Z-VAD-FMK). Caspase inhibitors suppressed the DNA fragmentation in the order of Z-VAD-FMK > caspase-8 inhibitor > caspase-3 inhibitor. Expression of Bcl-x(L) and Bid decreased significantly in the cadmium-treated cells, although no apparent change in Bcl-2 and Bax expression was found. Tetrakis-(2-pyridylmethyl) ethylendiamine, a cell-permeable heavy metal chelator, partially reversed the increase of fluorescence of Fura-2 in the cadmium-treated cells. In addition, verapamil (70 microm), a voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channel blocker, inhibited the DNA fragmentation induced by cadmium less than 100 microm and decreased the fluorescence of Fura-2. Cadmium up-regulated the expression of type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP(3)R) but not type 2 or type 3 IP(3)R. Calpain inhibitors I and II partially prevented DNA fragmentation. No effects of Z-VAD-FMK on the expression of type 1 IP(3)R or of calpain inhibitors on the loss of Deltapsi(m) were observed. These results suggest that cadmium possibly induced apoptosis in U937 cells through two independent pathways, the Ca(2+)-calpain-dependent pathway and the caspase-mitochondria-dependent pathway.

[Screening on lameness caused by poliomyelitis in Anhui Province]

In 1992, a screening of poliomyelitis caused lameness among children under 15 years of age was conducted to verify whether poliomyelitis has been absent in Anhui. A total number of 7,639 cases were diagnosed as poliomyelitis caused lameness. The prevalence rate was 0.44%, the rate was higher in plains than in hilly and mountainous areas. Rate was higher in ural than in urban areas. The disease mainly occurred in children at age below 3. The result showed that there were two epidemic peaks during 1976-1991, but the incidence rate tended to be declining. The incidence rate was the lowest in 1991. Many cases were not reported during 1976-1988.

Isolation of methylcarbamoyl-adducts of adenine and cytosine following in vitro reaction of methyl isocyanate with calf thymus DNA

Methylisocyanate (MIC) is the direct-acting acylating compound involved in the Bhopal, India disaster which occurred on December 3rd, 1984. The accidental release of MIC resulted in at least 2000 deaths, thousands of injuries and exposure of at least 200,000 people to varying amounts of MIC. We have studied how MIC reacts with 2'-deoxyribonucleosides at pH 7.0 and 37 degrees C for 1 h. MIC acylates exocyclic amino groups resulting in the following methylcarbamoyl (MC) adducts: N6-MC-Ade (0.5% yield) and N4-MC-dCyd (6%). No adducts were detected with dThd and dGuo. UV, NMR and mass spectrometry were employed to spectroscopically characterize these adducts. MIC was reacted with calf thymus DNA (pH 7.0, 37 degrees C, 1 h) and yielded N6-MC-Ade (0.3 nmol/mg DNA) and N4-MC-dCyd (2.0 nmol/mg DNA). The inability of others to observe genetic mutations by MIC in Salmonella and Drosophila is consistent with the exocyclic adducts at N4 of Cyt and N6 of Ade where normal hydrogen bonding can occur after rotation of the methylcarbamoyl group anti to the Watson-Crick side of the molecule assuming that MIC binds to DNA within the intact cell.