Tests of Light-Lepton Universality in Angular Asymmetries of B^{0}→D^{*-}ℓν Decays

We present the first comprehensive tests of the universality of the light leptons in the angular distributions of semileptonic B^{0}-meson decays to charged spin-1 charmed mesons. We measure five angular-asymmetry observables as functions of the decay recoil that are sensitive to lepton-universality-violating contributions. We use events where one neutral B is fully reconstructed in ϒ(4S)→BB[over ¯] decays in data corresponding to 189  fb^{-1} integrated luminosity from electron-positron collisions collected with the Belle II detector. We find no significant deviation from the standard model expectations.

Precise Measurement of the D_{s}^{+} Lifetime at Belle II

We measure the lifetime of the D_{s}^{+} meson using a data sample of 207  fb^{-1} collected by the Belle II experiment running at the SuperKEKB asymmetric-energy e^{+}e^{-} collider. The lifetime is determined by fitting the decay-time distribution of a sample of 116×10^{3} D_{s}^{+}→ϕπ^{+} decays. Our result is τ_{D_{s}^{+}}=(499.5±1.7±0.9)  fs, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second is systematic. This result is significantly more precise than previous measurements.

Search for a τ^{+}τ^{-} Resonance in e^{+}e^{-}→μ^{+}μ^{-}τ^{+}τ^{-} Events with the Belle II Experiment

We report the first search for a nonstandard-model resonance decaying into τ pairs in e^{+}e^{-}→μ^{+}μ^{-}τ^{+}τ^{-} events in the 3.6-10  GeV/c^{2} mass range. We use a 62.8  fb^{-1} sample of e^{+}e^{-} collisions collected at a center-of-mass energy of 10.58 GeV by the Belle II experiment at the SuperKEKB collider. The analysis probes three different models predicting a spin-1 particle coupling only to the heavier lepton families, a Higgs-like spin-0 particle that couples preferentially to charged leptons (leptophilic scalar), and an axionlike particle, respectively. We observe no evidence for a signal and set exclusion limits at 90% confidence level on the product of cross section and branching fraction into τ pairs, ranging from 0.7 to 24 fb, and on the couplings of these processes. We obtain world-leading constraints on the couplings for the leptophilic scalar model for masses above 6.5  GeV/c^{2} and for the axionlike particle model over the entire mass range.

Evidence for Band Renormalizations in Strong-Coupling Superconducting Alkali-Fulleride Films

There has been a long-standing debate about the mechanism of the unusual superconductivity in alkali-intercalated fullerides. In this Letter, using high-resolution angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, we systematically investigate the electronic structures of superconducting K_{3}C_{60} thin films. We observe a dispersive energy band crossing the Fermi level with the occupied bandwidth of about 130 meV. The measured band structure shows prominent quasiparticle kinks and a replica band involving the Jahn-Teller active phonon modes, which reflects strong electron-phonon coupling in the system. The electron-phonon coupling constant is estimated to be about 1.2, which dominates the quasiparticle mass renormalization. Moreover, we observe an isotropic nodeless superconducting gap beyond the mean-field estimation (2Δ/k_{B}T_{c}≈5). Both the large electron-phonon coupling constant and large reduced superconducting gap suggest a strong-coupling superconductivity in K_{3}C_{60}, while the electronic correlation effect is suggested by the observation of a waterfall-like band dispersion and the small bandwidth compared with the effective Coulomb interaction. Our results not only directly visualize the crucial band structure but also provide important insights into the mechanism of the unusual superconductivity of fulleride compounds.

Development of a laser-based angle-resolved-photoemission spectrometer with sub-micrometer spatial resolution and high-efficiency spin detection

Angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy with sub-micrometer spatial resolution (μ-ARPES), has become a powerful tool for studying quantum materials. To achieve sub-micrometer or even nanometer-scale spatial resolution, it is important to focus the incident light beam (usually from synchrotron radiation) using x-ray optics, such as the zone plate or ellipsoidal capillary mirrors. Recently, we developed a laser-based μ-ARPES with spin-resolution (LMS-ARPES). The 177 nm laser beam is achieved by frequency-doubling a 355 nm beam using a KBBF crystal and subsequently focused using an optical lens with a focal length of about 16 mm. By characterizing the focused spot size using different methods and performing spatial-scanning photoemission measurement, we confirm the sub-micron spatial resolution of the system. Compared with the μ-ARPES facilities based on the synchrotron radiation, our LMS-ARPES system is not only more economical and convenient, but also with higher photon flux (>5 × 10¹³ photons/s), thus enabling the high-resolution and high-statistics measurements. Moreover, the system is equipped with a two-dimensional spin detector based on exchange scattering at a surface-passivated iron film grown on a W(100) substrate. We investigate the spin structure of the prototype topological insulator Bi₂Se₃ and reveal a high spin-polarization rate, confirming its spin-momentum locking property. This lab-based LMS-ARPES will be a powerful research tool for studying the local fine electronic structures of different condensed matter systems, including topological quantum materials, mesoscopic materials and structures, and phase-separated materials.

[Significance of aspergillus fumigatus-specific IgG in the diagnosis of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis]

The data of 18 patients with allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) who received aspergillus fumigatus-specific IgG detection from 2015 to 2021 in Peking University Third Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 11 were male and 7 were female, aged 18-79 years. All patients had a history of asthma or symptoms of cough and asthma, and aspergillus fumigatus-specific IgE was positive; 16 patients had total serum IgE>500 U/ml, of which 13 patients had total serum IgE>1 000 U/ml. Among other diagnostic indicators, peripheral blood eosinophils were >0.5×10⁹/L in 16 cases; lung CT showed bronchiectasis in 15 cases; serum aspergillus fumigatus-specific IgG was positive (>120 AU/ml) in 10 cases. There was no significant difference in serum total IgE level, peripheral blood eosinophil count, and bronchiectasis ratio between positive and negative cases of aspergillus fumigatus-specific IgG (all P>0.05). In this study, the positive rate of aspergillus fumigatus-specific IgG in patients with ABPA was more than 50%, which has auxiliary value in the diagnosis of ABPA.

[The value of high-definition intelligent endoscopy combined with stroboscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of vocal cord leukoplakia]

Objective: To evaluate the clinical value of high-definition intelligent endoscopy (iSCAN) combined with stroboscopy in identifying vocal cord leukoplakia. Methods: Seventy-nine patients with vocal cord leukoplakia who underwent CO₂ laser laryngeal microsurgery and diagnosed by histopathology were recruited between October 2020 to August 2021. The morphological features, microvascular morphology and mucosal waves were observed by stroboscope; SPSS 20.0 software was used for statistical analysis. Results: There were 79 patients with a total of 119 lesions (56 on left and 63 on right).Pathological examination showed that 51 sides of the vocal cords were malignant lesions (severe dysplasia, carcinoma in situ and invasive carcinoma), and 68 sides were benign lesions.Under stroboscopy, 69 sides of mucosal wave were normal or slightly decreased, and 50 sides were severely decreased or disappeared.The decrease degree of mucosal wave was positively correlated with malignant lesions (ρ=0.687, P<0.001).Under iSCAN endoscopy, there was a positive correlation between the morphological changes of microvessels at the lesion site (vertical) and the malignant lesion (ρ=0.687, P<0.001).Univariate analysis showed that lesion size, thickness, uneven color, granular elevation, peripheral erythema and asymmetry were positively correlated with malignant lesions (ρ=0.530, 0.401, 0.538, 0.315, 0.497, 0.281, P<0.05).Logistic regression analysis showed that the risk of pathological malignancy with large lesions was 5.437 times higher than those of small lesions, the vertical vascular changes under iSCAN were 8.711 times higher than that of normal vascular morphology, and the severe reduction or disappearance of mucosal waves was 9.12 times higher than that of normal or mild reduction of mucosal waves. Conclusion: ISCAN can be combined with staphyloscopy to comprehensively observe and evaluate the changes of vocal cord morphology, submucosal microvessels and mucosal wave of vocal cord in patients with vocal cord leukoplosis, thus improving the ability to distinguish benign and malignant lesions.

[Analysis of syphilis antibody screening results of outpatients and inpatients in a hospital in Beijing from 2016 to 2020]

Objective: The results of syphilis antibody screening in Peking University Third Hospital from 2016 to 2020 were analyzed,to explore the characteristics of sex, age and distribution of patients with positive syphilis antibody. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted to collect the results of syphilis antibody in outpatients and inpatients of Peking University Third Hospital from 2016 to 2020. Syphilis antibodies were screened in 626 528 patients aged 1-98 years, 4 232 were retested positive by TPPA test, including 2 132 males (50.4%) and 2 100 females (49.6%). Chemiluminescence immunoassay (CMIA) was used for syphilis antibody screening, and Treponema pallidum particle agglutination (TPPA) test was used for reexamination. SPSS20.0 data statistical analysis software was used to analyze the detection rate, age, sex, department and clinical diagnosis of patients with positive syphilis antibody by χ² test. Results: Among 626 528 patients who were positive for treponema pallidum antibody screening, 4 232 were retested positive by TPPA test, accounting for 0.68% of the total number of patients tested. The number of syphilis tests increased year by year, however the positive detection rate decreased. The positive detection rate of syphilis antibody in 2020 decreased by 18.9% compared with 2016. The positive rate of syphilis antibody in male patients was higher than that in female patients, accounting for 0.80% and 0.59% of the total number of patients tested respectively. The positive rate of syphilis antibody of different genders increased with age, the total positive rate of 0-20, 21-40, 41-60, 61-80,>80 years old were 0.15%, 0.45%, 0.95%, 1.07% and 1.41%, respectively. While the increase rate of males was higher than that of females. The positive rate of male over 80 years old was 18.13 times of the group of 0-20 years old, and 5.54 times in women. The top 6 departments with positive syphilis antibody detection rate were emergency department, oncology department, respiratory department, geriatrics department, endocrinology department and neurology department, and the positive rates were 1.79% (104/5 810),1.46% (55/3 767),1.20% (74/6 167),1.20% (22/1 833),1.10% (32/2 909),1.09% (94/8 624), respectively. From the analysis of clinical diagnosis, the proportion of positive syphilis antibody in infertile patients (0.64%, 672/104 911) was higher than that in naturally conceived patients (0.10%, 24/23 969). Conclusions: From 2016 to 2020, the positive detection rate of syphilis antibody in Peking University Third Hospital decreased year by year. However, the positive detection rate increased with the age of patients. The positive rate of syphilis antibody in male was higher than that in female. The positive rate of syphilis antibody in pregnant women was lower than that in infertile patients.

Band-selective Holstein polaron in Luttinger liquid material A0.3MoO3 (A = K, Rb)

(Quasi-)one-dimensional systems exhibit various fascinating properties such as Luttinger liquid behavior, Peierls transition, novel topological phases, and the accommodation of unique quasiparticles (e.g., spinon, holon, and soliton, etc.). Here we study molybdenum blue bronze A_0.3MoO₃ (A = K, Rb), a canonical quasi-one-dimensional charge-density-wave material, using laser-based angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy. Our experiment suggests that the normal phase of A_0.3MoO₃ is a prototypical Luttinger liquid, from which the charge-density-wave emerges with decreasing temperature. Prominently, we observe strong renormalizations of band dispersions, which are recognized as the spectral function of Holstein polaron derived from band-selective electron-phonon coupling in the system. We argue that the strong electron-phonon coupling plays an important role in electronic properties and the charge-density-wave transition in blue bronzes. Our results not only reconcile the long-standing heavy debates on the electronic properties of blue bronzes but also provide a rare platform to study interesting excitations in Luttinger liquid materials.

[Analysis of related risk factors in the occurrence of mercury-toxic nephrotic syndrome]

Objective: To analyse the clinical characteristics of mercury-toxic nephrotic syndrome and to find the risk factors. Methods: A total of 126 patients with mercury-toxic admitted to Beijing Chaoyang Hospital from January 2017 to January 2020 were selected as the research objectives. General data such as age, gender, mercury exposure history of all patients and laboratory data such as urine mercury and urine creatinine were collected. The clinical manifestations and pathological types of patients with mercury-toxic nephrotic syndrome were analyzed, and the risk factors of mercury-toxic nephrotic syndrome were found by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results: Among the 24 patients with mercury-toxic nephrotic syndrome, 1 was poisoned by respiratory tract, 6 were poisoned by digestive tract, and 17 were poisoned by skin absorption. In addition to the manifestations of kidney injury, some of the patients also showed neurological symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, hand tremor, and limb pain. The main pathological types were membranous nephropathy (9 cases) and micropathological nephropathy (10 cases) . The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the digestive tract and skin absorption pathways of mercury were risk factors for mercury-toxic nephrotic syndrome (OR=21.099, 23.840, P<0.05) . Conclusion: The absorption pathway of mercury has an important influence on the pathogenesis of mercury-toxic nephrotic syndrome, especially in patients with mercury poisoning absorbed by the skin and digestive tract, the risk of complicating nephrotic syndrome is higher.

Biological Characteristics and Genetic Diversity of Phomopsis asparagi, Causal Agent of Asparagus Stem Blight

Asparagus stem blight is a regional disease. In the present study, we compared strains of Phomopsis asparagi from six different provinces to determine their biological characteristics and genetic diversity, differences in the pycnidium and conidium production, pathogenicity, and growth rate. Considerable differences were established in the pycnidium and conidium production among the P. asparagi strains from the six studied provinces. The largest pycnidium and conidium production had the strains from Fujian, followed by those from Hainan. The virulence of P. asparagi strains was significantly different but without a correlation with the geographical source of the strain. FJ2 had the highest virulence, followed by HN2, SD4, and SD5, whereas SD5 had the lowest virulence. The colony diameter and dry weight of the strains of asparagus stem blight fungus from the six provinces were substantially different. The colonies of HN1-5 had the largest diameters, whereas those of XT1-5, LT1-3, FJ1-5, and SX6 had smaller diameters. Four primers with good repeatability and strong specificity were selected from 100 intersimple sequence repeat (ISSR) primers. ISSR-PCR amplification was performed on 36 strains of asparagus stem blight fungus, and a large number of repeatable DNA fingerprints were obtained. Most of the amplified fragments were within 300 to 500 bp. In all, 69 total points, 64 multiple points, and 92.75% polymorphism points were established. The number of ISSR gene sites detected by four primers ranged from 14 to 20, with an average of 16 multiple sites. The copolymerization was divided into three groups: XT1-5, LT1-3, and FJ1-5, which were clustered into the first group; SD1-6, SX1-6, and HB1-6, clustered into the second group; and HN1-5 in the third group. The results of the cluster analysis revealed that the strains of the neighboring provinces had a nearer phylogenetic relationship than that between distant ones. Therefore, the system evolution of P. asparagi is related to the geographical distribution of its strains.

MicroRNA-4443 regulates monocyte activation by targeting tumor necrosis factor receptor associated factor 4 in stroke-induced immunosuppression

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been demonstrated to play crucial roles in the early stage of acute ischaemic stroke (AIS). The purpose of this study was to investigate the expression patterns of miRNAs in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from AIS patients and further explore related molecular mechanisms in stroke-induced immunodeficiency syndrome (SIDS).

METHODS

The miRNA expression patterns of PBMCs were detected by miRNA microarray and validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in AIS patients and healthy controls. Bioinformatics methods and luciferase reporter assays were used to detect the downstream target genes. Following stimulation with lipopolysaccharide and interleukin-4, the expression of miR-4443, tumor necrosis factor receptor associated factor 4 (TRAF4) and the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway were evaluated. Furthermore, transfection with miR-4443 mimic or inhibitor in the monocytes was carried out to gain insight into the mechanisms in SIDS.

RESULTS

Interleukin-10 in AIS patients was significantly higher than that of healthy controls. The miRNA microarray analysis and qRTPCR validation showed that only miR-4443 was upregulated expressed in PBMCs from AIS patients, especially in monocytes. miR-4443 was shown to directly interact with the 3' untranslated regions of TRAF4, resulting in suppression of TRAF4 protein expression. Furthermore, the expression of miR-4443 and TRAF4 was regulated by stimulation with lipopolysaccharide or interleukin-4. Additionally, overexpression of miR-4443 suppressed the TRAF4/Iκα/NF-κB signaling pathway to activate the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines in monocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

The increased expression of miR-4443 induced monocyte dysfunction by targeting TRAF4, which may function as a crucial mediator in SIDS.

Factors Influencing the Initiation Time of Forensic Psychiatric Assessment of Criminal Cases in Hunan Province

Abstract

Objective To discuss the related factors influencing the initiation time of forensic psychiatric assessment by analysis of the initiation time of forensic psychiatric assessment of criminal cases in Hunan Province. Methods Related data in assessment files of criminal cases accepted by 8 forensic psychiatric assessment institutions in Hunan Province from January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2016 were extracted. The Logistic regression analysis was used to explore the factors influencing the initiation time of forensic psychiatric assessment. After using property score matching （PSM） to control the influence of confounding factors, the efficiency of public security organs to initiate assessments of suspects with （without） mental disorders and with （without） responsibilities were compared. Results A total of 4 346 cases were included. The Logistic regression analysis suggested that the factors independently related to the initiation time of assessment include： cause of assessment, nationality of the assessed, history of diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses, history of crimes, history of drug abuse, and status of alcohol consumption before the crime （all P<0.05）. The initiation time of assessment of suspects diagnosed with mental disorder was shorter than those with none （P<0.05）; the initiation time of assessment of suspects without criminal responsibility was shorter than those with responsibility （P<0.05）. After using PSM to control confounding factors, the differences above still existed. Conclusion The cause of assessment, nationality of the assessed, history of diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses, history of crimes, history of drug abuse, and status of alcohol consumption before the crime are factors that influence the efficiency of public security organs to initiate forensic psychiatric assessments. Under the current assessment initiation mode, forensic psychiatric assessment of suspects who have mental disorders, especially those with no responsibility may be given priority to initiate.

Cx36 in the mouse hippocampus during and after pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus

Gap junctions play an important role in the synchronization activity of coupled cells. Hippocampal inhibitory interneurons are involved in epileptogenesis and seizure activity, and express gap junction protein connexin (Cx) 36. Cx36 is also localized in the axons (mossy fibers) of granule cells in the dentate gyrus. While it has been documented that Cx36 is involved in epileptogenesis, there are still controversies regarding the expression levels of Cx36 at different developmental stages of human and animal models of epileptogenesis. In this study, the expression of Cx36 was investigated in the mouse hippocampus at 1 h, 4 h during pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus (PISE) and 1 week, 2 months after PISE. We found that Cx36 was down-regulated in neurons at different time points during and after PISE, whereas it was increased significantly in the stratum lucidum of CA3 area at 2 months after PISE. Double immunofluorescence indicated that Cx36 was localized in parvalbumin (PV) immunopositive interneuron in CA1 area and in mossy fibers and their terminals in the stratum lucidum of CA3 area. It suggests that decreased expression of Cx36 in interneurons may be related to less effective inhibitory control of excitatory activity of hippocampal principal neurons. However, the increased Cx36 immunopositive product in mossy fibers at the chronic stage after PISE may enhance the contacts between granule cells in the dentate gyrus and pyramidal neurons in CA3 area. The two different changes of Cx36 may be implicated in the epileptogenesis.

Comparative efficacy and safety of the left versus right radial approach for percutaneous coronary procedures: a meta-analysis including 6870 patients

The radial approach is widely used in the treatment of patients with coronary artery disease. We conducted a meta-analysis of published results on the efficacy and safety of the left and right radial approaches in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary procedures. A systematic search of reference databases was conducted, and data from 14 randomized controlled trials involving 6870 participants were analyzed. The left radial approach was associated with significant reductions in fluoroscopy time [standardized mean difference (SMD)=-0.14, 95% confidence interval (CI)=-0.19 to -0.09; P<0.00001] and contrast volume (SMD=-0.07, 95%CI=-0.12 to -0.02; P=0.009). There were no significant differences in rate of procedural failure of the left and the right radial approaches [risk ratios (RR)=0.98; 95%CI=0.77-1.25; P=0.88] or procedural time (SMD=-0.05, 95%CI=0.17-0.06; P=0.38). Tortuosity of the subclavian artery (RR=0.27, 95%CI=0.14-0.50; P<0.0001) was reported more frequently with the right radial approach. A greater number of catheters were used with the left than with the right radial approach (SMD=0.25, 95%CI=0.04-0.46; P=0.02). We conclude that the left radial approach is as safe as the right radial approach, and that the left radial approach should be recommended for use in percutaneous coronary procedures, especially in percutaneous coronary angiograms.

Regulatory role of B-cell maturation antigen on the toxic effect of chromium ions on human SaOS-2 osteoblasts

Metal prostheses of artificial joints undergo wear, producing numerous metal particles and ions, such as Cr³⁺ . Cr³⁺ is considered a key factor leading to aseptic loosening. Many studies focus on the effect of Cr³⁺ on osteoblasts; however, little is known about the effect of Cr³⁺ on the B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) in the osteoblasts. In this study, we first demonstrated the BCMA expressed in human SaOS-2 osteoblasts through reverse transcriptase-PCR, Western blot, and immunocytochemical analyses. Cr³⁺ decreased alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteocalcin (OC), cell mineralization, and collagen type I mRNA and protein expression. Moreover, Cr³⁺ has an inhibitive effect on the expression of the BCMA in human SaOS-2 osteoblasts. However, after we upregulated the expression of the BCMA, ALP, OC, cell mineralization, and collagen type I mRNA and protein expression were increased. Overall, this study demonstrates that the BCMA is involved in human SaOS-2 osteoblast osteogenetic metabolism and plays a regulatory role on the toxic effect of chromium ions on human SaOS-2 osteoblasts.

MTHFR C677T polymorphism and osteoporotic fracture in postmenopausal women: a meta-analysis

Numerous studies have evaluated the association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and osteoporotic fracture risk in postmenopausal women. However, the results have been inconsistent. We performed a meta-analysis of the association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and osteoporotic fracture risk in postmenopausal women. Only seven case-control studies were retrieved, with a total of 4258 patients and 3454 healthy controls. Meta-analysis results showed no significant association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and osteoporotic fracture risk in postmenopausal women for all genetic models (for TT vs CC: OR=0.99, 95%CI=0.72-1.39; for TT vs TC: OR=1.02, 95%CI=0.87-1.20; for CC+TC vs TT: OR=0.96, 95%CI=0.71-1.28; for TT+TC vs CC: OR=0.93, 95%CI=0.84-1.03). In the subgroup analysis by ethnicity, the results also showed no significant association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and susceptibility to osteoporotic fracture in postmenopausal women in both Caucasian and Asian populations. In conclusion, this meta-analysis suggests that MTHFR C677T polymorphism may not be associated with susceptibility to osteoporotic fracture in postmenopausal women.

Effects of thrombin on the secondary cerebral injury of perihematomal tissues of rats after intracerebral hemorrhage

This study aimed to investigate the effects of thrombin released in hematoma after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) on the cerebral injury of perihematomal tissues and to evaluate the protection effect of hirudin on the cerebral injury after ICH. We used the autologous uncoagulated blood injection method to prepare the ICH rat model, and all rats were randomly divided into a normal group, an ICH group, or a hirudin group. At different time points, rat heads were cut to harvest brain sections. Immunohistochemical staining, histochemical staining, and hematoxylin and eosin staining were conducted for CD34, microglia, and neutrocytes. CD34-positive microvessels were most abundant in brain tissues of the sham-operation group. At 12 h after ICH, CD34 expression reduced and reached the minimum level at 72 h (P<0.01). At 6 h after ICH, microglia expression was visible and reached a peak at 48 h (P<0.01). At 12 h after ICH, neutrocyte infiltration was visible and the number was greatest at 48 h (P<0.01). The early application of hirudin after ICH could significantly reduce microglia and neutrocyte expression and could significantly slow down the CD34 decrease trend (P<0.01). However, hirudin application in the edematization stage after ICH did not significantly increase CD34- positive microvessel abundance (P>0.05). A thrombin-mediated inflammatory reaction is involved in the cerebral injury after ICH, and the early application of hirudin has a protective effect.

Study of atomic structure and electronic structure of an AA'3B4O12 double-perovskite CaCu3Ir4O12 using STEM imaging and EELS techniques

A newly discovered 1:3 A-site-ordered AA'3B4O12 perovskite oxide CaCu3Ir4O12 which has unusual electrical and magnetic properties was investigated using STEM imaging and EELS techniques in a probe corrected microscope. The target sample was compared with the other two iso-structural oxides of CaCu3Ru4O12 and CaCu3Ti4O12 with dissimilar physical properties. It has been found by STEM HAADF imaging that Ca and Cu on A and A' sites are ordered as expected. Oxygen atoms are imaged with STEM ABF imaging. The fine structures of the Cu L2,3 core loss and O-K edges show that the electronic structure of CaCu3Ir4O12 is very close to that of CaCu3Ru4O12, but different from CaCu3Ti4O12. The O-K near edge fine structures show extensive hybridization of Ir 5d and O 2p band. Cu L2,3 peaks indicate Cu in CaCu3Ir4O12 has 2+ valence, though Cu(2+) electrons mainly localized, they might have strong interactions with Ir(4+) 5d electrons through Ir-O-Cu, similar to the strong coupling of Ru with Cu in CaCu3Ru4O12.

Chemical pressure effects on pyrochlore spin ice

A comparison among the two sets of studied pyrochlore spin ices, Ho2Sn2O7, Ho2Ti2O7, and Ho2Ge2O7 with Ho3+ spins and Dy2Sn2O7, Dy2Ti2O7, and Dy2Ge2O7 with Dy3+ spins, shows that the application of chemical pressure through each set drives the system toward the antiferromagnetic phase boundary from the spin ice region, which agrees with the prediction of the "dipolar spin ice" model of den Hertog and Gingras. Among all the studied pyrochlore spin ices, Dy2Ge2O7 has the smallest ratio of Jnn/Dnn=-0.73.

High-pressure sequence of Ba3NiSb2O9 structural phases: new S = 1 quantum spin liquids based on Ni2+

Two new gapless quantum spin-liquid candidates with S = 1 (Ni(2+)) moments: the 6H-B phase of Ba(3)NiSb(2)O(9) with a Ni(2+)-triangular lattice and the 3C phase with a Ni(2/3)Sb(1/3)-three-dimensional edge-shared tetrahedral lattice were obtained under high pressure. Both compounds show no magnetic order down to 0.35 K despite Curie-Weiss temperatures θ(CW) of -75.5 (6H-B) and -182.5 K (3C), respectively. Below ~25 K, the magnetic susceptibility of the 6H-B phase saturates to a constant value χ(0) = 0.013 emu/mol, which is followed below 7 K by a linear-temperature-dependent magnetic specific heat (C(M)) displaying a giant coefficient γ = 168 mJ/mol K(2). Both observations suggest the development of a Fermi-liquid-like ground state. For the 3C phase, the C(M) perpendicular T(2) behavior indicates a unique S = 1, 3D quantum spin-liquid ground state.

High pressure route to generate magnetic monopole dimers in spin ice

The gas of magnetic monopoles in spin ice is governed by one key parameter: the monopole chemical potential. A significant variation of this parameter could access hitherto undiscovered magnetic phenomena arising from monopole correlations, as observed in the analogous electrical Coulomb gas, like monopole dimerization, critical phase separation, or charge ordering. However, all known spin ices have values of chemical potential imposed by their structure and chemistry that place them deeply within the weakly correlated regime, where none of these interesting phenomena occur. Here we use high-pressure synthesis to create a new monopole host, Dy(2)Ge(2)O(7), with a radically altered chemical potential that stabilizes a large fraction of monopole dimers. The system is found to be ideally described by the classic Debye-Huckel-Bjerrum theory of charge correlations. We thus show how to tune the monopole chemical potential in spin ice and how to access the diverse collective properties of magnetic monopoles.

Recapturing public health sciences for HIV/AIDS in China

In recent years, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has spread from high-risk groups to the general population in China. Scientific interpretation of HIV figures, prevalence and proportion vs. incidence is displayed to correctly guide politicians and lay people in understanding the situation. Although behaviour-focused studies have been conducted in China, many have focused on 'scientific' issues, with limited attention given to human dimensions or contexts. An evidence-based public health approach, with strict evaluation in terms of cost-effectiveness and behavioural outcomes, needs to be developed, together with activity to encourage decentralization and community engagement of programmes. Policies and strategies on HIV prevention and control need to be mindful of Chinese culture and reality, including the expansion of screening and surveillance.

Inability of probiotic bacterial strains Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 to induce human platelet aggregation in vitro

Platelet aggregation contributes to the pathogenesis of infective endocarditis, and aggregation of platelets induced by lactobacilli is thought to be an important contributory factor in the development and progression of Lactobacillus endocarditis. The main purpose of this study was to examine the effect of immunity-enhancing probiotic strains Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 on the activation and aggregation of human blood platelets. Whole blood samples from healthy individuals were incubated in vitro with HN001 or HN019 and subsequently labeled with platelet-specific monoclonal antibodies, fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated anti-CD41a (expressed on normal platelets), and phycoerythrin-streptavidin-conjugated anti-CD62p (expressed on activated platelets) before analysis by flow cytometry. Platelet-rich plasma was used to assist the gating of the platelet cluster. ADP and epinephrine were used as the physiological platelet activation agonists. Platelet aggregation-inducing strain Streptococcus sanguis 133-79 was used as a positive control strain. The mean fluorescence intensity of phycoerythrin and the percentage of platelets expressing the CD62p marker were used to assess the degree of platelet activation. The percentage of CD62p-positive platelets and the light scatter profiles of the agonist-activated platelets were used to identify the occurrence and degree of platelet aggregation. HN001 and HN019 had no effect on spontaneous platelet activation and aggregation; they also failed to exacerbate the platelet aggregation activity induced by ADP and epinephrine. Therefore, these test probiotic strains HN001 and HN019 are less likely to participate in the pathogenesis of infective endocarditis or other thrombotic disorders with regard to platelet aggregation factors.

Immunostimulatory probiotic HN001 and HN019 do not induce pathological inflammation in mouse model of experimental autoimmune thyroiditis

The possibility that intestinal microflora contribute to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases has raised issues regarding the safety of probiotic organisms, especially those with immunostimulating properties, in individuals with such immune dysfunctions. In this study, the effect of consumption of probiotic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001(HN001) and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 (HN019) on the induction and progression of experimental autoimmune thyroiditis (EAT) was investigated in CBA/CaH (H-2k) mice. HN001 or HN019 in skim milk were fed to mice daily (1-1.5 x 10(8) cfu/mouse/day) for 5 to 9 weeks. A mild form of EAT was induced by subcutaneous injection of mouse thyroglobulin (MTg) with either Freund's adjuvant (complete and incomplete, CFA and IFA) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The proliferative responses of spleen lymphocyte to MTg stimulation in vitro and the presence (and degree) of mononuclear cell infiltration in thyroid gland tissues were examined to assess the development and severity of EAT. The levels of serum anti-MTg antibodies (IgG1 and IgG2a) and spleen weight index were determined to detect the presence of autoimmune responses of mice receiving MTg. Results showed that 8 weeks after immunization, 16.67-50% of the mice developed mild EAT with lymphocyte infiltration in the thyroid glands. Probiotic feeding did not induce full-blown EAT. There were no differences in spleen weight index or the proliferative spleenocytes in response to PMA between mice that received MTg alone and mice that received MTg and probiotic LAB strains.

Antibiotic susceptibility profiles of new probiotic Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains

The antimicrobial susceptibilities and presence of plasmids in four new probiotic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains, Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 (DR20) HN067, Lactobacillus acidophilus HN017 and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 (DR10), were determined. Resistance to 18 commonly used antibiotics was assessed by disk diffusion. The three Lactobacillus strains had similar antibiotic susceptibility profiles to those of Lactobacillus plantarum strain HN045 and two commercial probiotic Lactobacillus strains, GG and LA-1. The B. lactis strain HN019 had a similar profile to three commercial probiotic B. lactis strains (Bb12, HN049 and HN098). All 10 strains were sensitive to the Gram-positive spectrum antibiotics erythromycin and novobiocin, the broad-spectrum antibiotics rifampicin, spectinomycin, tetracycline and chloramphenicol and the beta-lactam antibiotics penicillin, ampicillin and cephalothin. By contrast, most strains were resistant to the Gram-negative spectrum antibiotics fusidic acid, nalidixic acid and polymyxin B and the aminoglycosides neomycin, gentamicin, kanamycin and streptomycin. All three L. rhamnosus strains (HN001, HN067 and GG) were resistant to vancomycin and several strains were also resistant to cloxacillin. Of the four new probiotic strains, only L. rhamnosus HN001 contained plasmids; however, a plasmid-free derivative of HN001 had the same antibiotic susceptibility profile as the parent strain.

Potential probiotic lactic acid bacteria Lactobacillus rhamnosus (HN001), Lactobacillus acidophilus (HN017) and Bifidobacterium lactis (HN019) do not degrade gastric mucin in vitro

The mucus layer (mucin) coating the surface of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) plays an important role in the mucosal barrier system. Any damage or disturbance of this mucin layer will compromise the host's mucosal defence function. In the present study, the ability of three potential probiotic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains (Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001, Lactobacillus acidophilus HN017, Bifidobacterium lactis HN019) to degrade mucin in vitro was evaluated, in order to assess their potential pathogenicity and local toxicity. The LAB strains were incubated in medium containing hog gastric mucin (HGM, 0.3%) at 37 degrees C for 48 h, following which any decrease in carbohydrate and protein concentration in the ethanol-precipitated portion of the culture medium was determined, using phenol-sulphuric acid and bicinchonic acid (BCA) protein assays, respectively. The change in molecular weight of mucin glycoproteins, following incubation with the test strains, was monitored by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). In order to expose any ability of the test strains to degrade mucin visually and more directly, the test strains were also cultured on agarose containing 0.3% HGM and incubated anaerobically for 72 h at 37 degrees C. No significant change in the carbohydrate or protein concentration in mucin substrates was found following incubation with the test strains. No mucin fragments were derived from the mucin suspension incubated with test strains, and no mucinolysis zone was identified on agarose. These results demonstrate that the potential probiotic LAB strains tested here were unable to degrade gastrointestinal mucin in vitro, which suggests that these novel probiotic candidates are likely to be non-invasive and non-toxic at the mucosal interface.

[Relationship between exposure time and cryopreservation of articular cartilage]

OBJECTIVE

To search an optimal method for improving viability of cryopreserved articular cartilage.

METHODS

Articular cartilage which was sampled from the rabbits were randomly divided into 5 groups. Fresh cartilage was group I, other groups were frozen. Before frozen, other cartilage was exposured in 10% DMSO at 4 degrees C for 30 minutes(group II), 1 hour(group III), 2 hours (group IV), 4 hours(group V), then were stored in liquid nitrogen for 1 week. Viabilities of the chondrocytes were detected by Typan-blue staining, electron transmission microscope, and determination of incorporation 3H-TdR after the temperature returned to normal.

RESULTS

1. The cells were injuried at different extent after the cartilage was frozen. In group I, survival rate of cells was 96% and incorporation of 3H-TdR was (4,953.13 +/- 583.27)%, statistic difference was significant between group I and other groups(P < 0.01). The microstructure of group I was normal while other groups all had damage of the organella, 2. Structures and functions of cells in group IV were best among frozen groups. Organella were less damaged than group II, III, V, survival rate of cells was 56% and incorporation of 3H-TdR was (1,139.88 +/- 146.39)%, statistic difference was significant between group IV and group II, III, V(P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

If cartilage are exposured in 10% DMSO at 4 degrees C for 2 hours before frozen, optimal cryopreservation can be achieved.

[Repair of bone defect with benign tumor by embryonic bone transplantation]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical results of repair of bone defect by embryonic bone transplantation.

METHODS

From January 1994 to June 1999, 148 cases of bone defect were repaired by embryonic bone transplantation following alcohol treatment, there were 63 cases with bone cyst, 42 cases with fibrous dysplasia of bone, 26 cases with giant cell tumor of bone, and 17 cases with enchondroma among them. The maximal bone defect was 3.5 cm x 10.0 cm, while the minimal defect was 0.5 cm x 1.0 cm.

RESULTS

All of those bone defect with benign tumor were bone union used by embryonic bone transplantation after 3 months to 1 year of operation, the average healing course was 6.2 months, followed up 1 to 6 years, averaged 14 months, no tumor recurrence and no obvious local or system response were observed.

CONCLUSION

Embryonic bone can be used as a good repairing material of postoperative bone defect of benign tumors, the clinical results are satisfactory.

Safety assessment of potential probiotic lactic acid bacterial strains Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001, Lb. acidophilus HN017, and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 in BALB/c mice

The general safety of immune-enhancing lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 (DR20), Lb. acidophilus HN017, and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 (DR10) was investigated in a feeding trial. Groups of BALB/c mice were orally administered test LAB strains or the commercial reference strain Lb. acidophilus LA-1 at 2.5 x 10(9), 5 x 10(10) or 2.5 x 10(12) colony forming units (CFU)/kg body weight/day for 4 weeks. Throughout this time, their feed intake, water intake, and live body weight were monitored. At the end of the 4 week observation period, samples of blood, liver, spleen, kidney, mesenteric lymph nodes, and gut tissues (ileum, caecum, and colon) were collected to determine: haematological parameters (red blood cell and platelet counts, haemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin, and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration); differential leukocyte counts; blood biochemistry (plasma total protein, albumin, cholesterol, and glucose); mucosal histology (epithelial cell height, mucosal thickness, and villus height); and bacterial translocation to extra-gut tissues (blood, liver, spleen, kidney and mesenteric lymph nodes). DNA finger printing techniques were used to identify any viable bacterial strains recovered from these tissues. The results demonstrated that 4 weeks consumption of these LAB strains had no adverse effects on animals' general health status, haematology, blood biochemistry, gut mucosal histology parameters, or the incidence of bacterial translocation. A few viable LAB cells were recovered from the tissues of animals in both control and test groups, but DNA fingerprinting did not identify any of these as the inoculated strains. The results obtained in this study suggest that the potentially probiotic LAB strains HN001, HN017, and HN019 are non-toxic for mice and are therefore likely to be safe for human use.

Acute oral toxicity and bacterial translocation studies on potentially probiotic strains of lactic acid bacteria

Three potentially probiotic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains, Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 (DR20(TM)), Lb. acidophilus HN017 and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 (DR10()), have recently been identified and characterized. The present study was designed to evaluate the acute oral toxicity of these strains to mice, and also to investigate bacterial translocation and gut mucosal pathology in BALB/c mice fed HN019, HN001 or HN017 for 8 consecutive days at a high dose of 10(11)cfu/mouse/day. Results showed that these probiotic strains had no adverse effect on general health status, feed intake, body weight gain and intestinal mucosal morphology (villus height, crypt depth, epithelial cell height and mucosal thickness). No viable bacteria were recovered from blood and tissue samples (mesenteric lymph nodes, liver and spleen) of mice, and no treatment-associated illness or death was observed. According to these results, the oral LD(50) of HN019, HN001 and HN017 is more than 50g/kg/day for mice, and their acceptable daily intake (ADI) value is 35g dry bacteria per day for a 70-kg person. This suggests that the probiotic strains HN019, HN001 and HN017 are non-pathogenic and likely to be safe for human consumption.

Cytochrome c activation of CPP32-like proteolysis plays a critical role in a Xenopus cell-free apoptosis system

In a cell-free system based on Xenopus egg extracts, Bcl-2 blocks apoptotic activity by preventing cytochrome c release from mitochondria. We now describe in detail the crucial role of cytochrome c in this system. The mitochondrial fraction, when incubated with cytosol, releases cytochrome c. Cytochrome c in turn induces the activation of protease(s) resembling caspase-3 (CPP32), leading to downstream apoptotic events, including the cleavage of fodrin and lamin B1. CPP32-like protease activity plays an essential role in this system, as the caspase inhibitor, Ac-DEVD-CHO, strongly inhibited fodrin and lamin B1 cleavage, as well as nuclear morphology changes. Cytochrome c preparations from various vertebrate species, but not from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, were able to initiate all signs of apoptosis. Cytochrome c by itself was unable to process the precursor form of CPP32; the presence of cytosol was required. The electron transport activity of cytochrome c is not required for its pro-apoptotic function, as Cu- and Zn-substituted cytochrome c had strong pro-apoptotic activity, despite being redox-inactive. However, certain structural features of the molecule were required for this activity. Thus, in the Xenopus cell-free system, cytosol-dependent mitochondrial release of cytochrome c induces apoptosis by activating CPP32-like caspases, via unknown cytosolic factors.

Inhibitor-enhanced electron transfer: copper cytochrome c as a redox-inert probe of ternary complexes

Copper-substituted cytochrome c (CuCc) has been used as a structurally faithful, redoxinert inhibitor to probe the mechanism of electron transfer (ET) between Cc molecules and cytochrome c peroxidase (CcP). This inhibitor enhances photoinduced ET quenching of the triplet excited state of a zinc-substituted protein (ZnCcP or ZnCc) by its iron(III) partner (Fe3+Cc or Fe3+CcP). These results show that CcP and Cc form a ternary complex in which one Cc molecule binds tightly at a surface domain of CcP having low ET reactivity, whereas the second Cc molecule binds weakly to the 1:1 complex at a second domain with markedly greater (approximately 10(3)) reactivity. These results also rule out the possibility that Cc bound at the second domain cooperatively enhances ET to Cc at the first domain. The multiphasic kinetics observed for the photoproduced ET intermediate do not reflect electron self-exchange between two Cc molecules within the ternary complex.

Stern-volmer in reverse: 2:1 stoichiometry of the cytochrome c-cytochrome c peroxidase electron-transfer complex

A reverse protocol for measurements of molecular binding and reactivity by excited-state quenching has been developed in which the quencher, held at a fixed concentration, is titrated by a photoexcitable probe molecule whose decay is monitored. The binding stoichiometries, affinities, and reactivities of the electron-transfer complexes between cytochrome c (Cc) and cytochrome c peroxidase (CcP) were determined over a wide range of ionic strengths (4.5 to 118 millimolar) by the study of photoinduced electron-transfer quenching of the triplet excited state of zinc-substituted Cc (ZnCc) by Fe3+CcP. The 2:1 stoichiometry seen for the binding of Cc to CcP at low ionic strength persists at the physiologically relevant ionic strengths and likely has functional significance. Analysis of the stoichiometric binding and rate constants confirms that one surface domain of CcP binds Cc with a high affinity but with poor electron-transfer quenching of triplet-state ZnCc, whereas a second binds weakly but with a high rate of electron-transfer quenching.

Comparison of electrostatic interactions and of protein-protein orientations in electron-transfer reactions of plastocyanin with the triplet state of zinc cytochrome c and with zinc cytochrome c cation radical

Photoinduced reduction of cupriplastocyanin by the triplet state of zinc cytochrome c (the "forward" reaction) and the subsequent thermal oxidation of cuproplastocyanin by zinc cytochrome c cation radical (the "back" reaction) at ionic strengths from 40 mM to 3.00 M are studied by laser kinetic spectroscopy (so-called flash photolysis). Variation of the bimolecular rate constants over the entire range of ionic strength cannot be explained in terms of monopole-monopole interactions between the protein molecules, but it can be explained in terms of monopole-monopole, monopole-dipole, and dipole-dipole interactions. Analysis of the kinetic results in terms of these electrostatic interactions reveals the overall protein-protein orientation for electron transfer. In both the forward and back reactions the exposed heme edge in zinc cytochrome c apparently abuts the negatively-charged (acidic) patch on the plastocyanin surface, which is remote from the copper atom, and not the electroneutral (hydrophobic) patch, which is proximate to the copper atom. The acidic patch is large, and this analysis cannot rule out a relatively small difference in protein-protein orientations for the forward and back reactions. These two reactions are compared with the previously studied reduction of cupriplastocyanin by ferrocytochrome c. Although native cytochrome c and its zinc derivative have very similar structural and electrostatic properties, the reactive forms of the cytochrome c/plastocyanin and zinc cytochrome c/plastocyanin complexes may adopt somewhat different protein-protein orientations or may adopt similar orientations but differ in dynamic properties.

Metalloprotein complexes for the study of electron-transfer reactions. Characterization of diprotein complexes obtained by covalent cross-linking of cytochrome c and plastocyanin with a carbodiimide

Cytochrome c (cyt) and zinc cytochrome c (Zncyt) are separately cross-linked to plastocyanin (pc) by the carbodiimide EDC according to a published method. The changes in the protein reduction potentials indicate the presence of approximately two amide cross-links. Chromatography of the diprotein complexes cyt/pc and Zncyt/pc on CM-52 resin yields multiple fractions, whose numbers depend on the eluent. UV-vis, EPR, CD, MCD, resonance Raman, and surface-enhanced resonance Raman spectra show that cross-linking does not significantly perturb the heme and blue copper active sites. Degrees of heme exposure show that plastocyanin covers most of the accessible heme edge in cytochrome c. Impossibility of cross-linking cytochrome c to a plastocyanin derivative whose acidic patch had been blocked by chemical modification shows that it is the acidic patch that abuts the heme edge in the covalent complex. The chromatographic fractions of the covalent diprotein complex are structurally similar to one another and to the electrostatic diprotein complex. Isoelectric points show that the fractions differ from one another in the number and distribution of N-acylurea groups, byproducts of the reaction with the carbodiimide. Cytochrome c and plastocyanin are also tethered to each other via lysine residues by N-hydroxysuccinimide diesters. Tethers, unlike direct amide bonds, allow mobility of the cross-linked molecules. Laser-flash-photolysis experiments show that, nonetheless, the intracomplex electron-transfer reaction cyt(II)/pc(II)----cyt(III)/pc(I) is undetectable in complexes of either type. Only the electrostatic diprotein complex, in which protein rearrangement from the docking configuration to the reactive configuration is unrestricted, undergoes this intracomplex reaction at a measurable rate.

Photoinduced electron-transfer reaction in a ternary system involving zinc cytochrome c and plastocyanin. Interplay of monopolar and dipolar electrostatic interactions between metalloproteins

A carbodiimide promotes noninvasive cross-linking between amino groups surrounding the exposed heme edge in zinc cytochrome c and carboxylic groups in the acidic patch in plastocyanin. Eight derivatives of the covalent complex Zncyt/pc(I), which have similar structures but different overall charges because of different numbers and locations of N-acylurea groups, are separated by cation-exchange chromatography. Kinetics of electron transfer from the diprotein complex in the triplet excited state, 3Zncyt/pc(I), to free cupriplastocyanin at pH 7.0 and various ionic strengths is studied by laser flash spectroscopy. This reaction is purely bimolecular for all eight N-acylurea derivatives of the diprotein complex. The overall charges of the derivatives 1 and 2 at pH 7.0 are -2 and 0, respectively; both of them, however, have very large dipole moments of 410-480 D. The rate constants for their reactions with cupriplastocyanin, whose charge at pH 7.0 is -8 and whose dipole moment is 362 D, are determined over the range of ionic strengths from 2.5 mM to 3.00 M. The observed dependence of the rate constants on ionic strength cannot be explained in terms of net charges (monopole-monopole interactions) alone, but it can be fitted quantitatively with a theory that recognizes also monopole-dipole and dipole-dipole interactions [van Leeuwen, J. W. (1983) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 743, 408]. At ionic strengths up to ca. 10 mM monopole-monopole interactions predominate and Brønsted-Debye-Hückel theory applies.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

[Ofloxacin content in tears following topical use of 0.3% ointment]

Tear and aqueous humor levels of ofloxacin following 40mg of topical 0.3% ointment were determined at intervals within 24 hours by high performance liquid chromatography. The highest tear level was detected in half an hour, and effective concentrations existed in 6 hours. The highest aqueous humor level was detected 60 minutes after administration. Ofloxacin ointment produced higher tear concentrations for longer time than did aqueous solution of the drug.