[The clinical application value of brain 18F-FDG PET/CT in the diagnostics of Parkinsonian syndromes]

Objective: To analyze the PET/CT imaging features of fluoride 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) in patients with various types of Parkinson's syndrome (PS), and to establish a "diagnostic tree" model of 18F-FDG PET/CT for PS. Methods: Data of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), patients with multiple system atrophy cerebellar type (MSA-C), and patients with multiple system atrophy Parkinson's type (MSA-P)admitted to the Neurology Department of Huashan Hospital affiliated to Fudan University from January 2019 to December 2021. 18F-FDG PET/CT examination was conducted in all patients. Clinical and follow-up data was collected to determine clinical diagnosis. The specific patterns of brain glucose metabolism in patients with various types of Parkinsonism were observed and their utility in the differential diagnosis of the disease was analyzed. 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging"diagnostic tree"model was established and its value in the differential diagnosis of Parkinsonism was verified. Results: A total of 320 patients, 187 males and 133 females, aged (62±9) years, were enrolled in our study, including 80 PD, 90 PSP, 114 MSA-C and 36 MSA-P patients. The differential diagnostic features of cerebral glucose metabolism of Parkinsonism were as follows: the metabolism of putamen increased in PD patients, the metabolism of caudate nucleus, thalamus, midbrain, and frontal lobe decreased in PSP patients, the metabolism of cerebellum decreased in MSA-C patients, and the metabolism of putamen and cerebellum decreased in MSA-P patients. The sensitivity and specificity of the"diagnostic tree"model are 88.75% and 91.25% for PD diagnosis, 54.44% and 96.96% for PSP diagnosis, 87.72% and 86.41% for MSA-C diagnosis, and 55.56% and 91.55% for MSA-P diagnosis, respectively. It could correctly classify 75%(240/320) of patients. Conclusions: Characteristic metabolism patterns of brain in 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging is significant for the differential diagnosis of PD, PSP, MSA-C and MSA-P. The"diagnostic tree"model is valuable for clinical diagnosis.

[Mid-term efficacy of China Net Childhood Lymphoma-mature B-cell lymphoma 2017 regimen in the treatment of pediatric Burkitt lymphoma]

Objective: To analyze the clinical characteristics of children with Burkitt lymphoma (BL) and to summarize the mid-term efficacy of China Net Childhood Lymphoma-mature B-cell lymphoma 2017 (CNCL-B-NHL-2017) regimen. Methods: Clinical features of 436 BL patients who were ≤18 years old and treated with the CNCL-B-NHL-2017 regimen from May 2017 to April 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. Clinical characteristics of patients at disease onset were analyzed and the therapeutic effects of patients with different clinical stages and risk groups were compared. Survival analysis was performed by Kaplan-Meier method, and Cox regression was used to identify the prognostic factors. Results: Among 436 patients, there were 368 (84.4%) males and 68 (15.6%) females, the age of disease onset was 6.0 (4.0, 9.0) years old. According to the St. Jude staging system, there were 4 patients (0.9%) with stage Ⅰ, 30 patients (6.9%) with stage Ⅱ, 217 patients (49.8%) with stage Ⅲ, and 185 patients (42.4%) with stage Ⅳ. All patients were stratified into following risk groups: group A (n=1, 0.2%), group B1 (n=46, 10.6%), group B2 (n=19, 4.4%), group C1 (n=285, 65.4%), group C2 (n=85, 19.5%). Sixty-three patients (14.4%) were treated with chemotherapy only and 373 patients (85.6%) were treated with chemotherapy combined with rituximab. Twenty-one patients (4.8%) suffered from progressive disease, 3 patients (0.7%) relapsed, and 13 patients (3.0%) died of treatment-related complications. The follow-up time of all patients was 24.0 (13.0, 35.0) months, the 2-year event free survival (EFS) rate of all patients was (90.9±1.4) %. The 2-year EFS rates of group A, B1, B2, C1 and C2 were 100.0%, 100.0%, (94.7±5.1) %, (90.7±1.7) % and (85.9±4.0) %, respectively. The 2-year EFS rates was higher in group A, B1, and B2 than those in group C1 (χ²=4.16, P=0.041) and group C2 (χ²=7.21, P=0.007). The 2-year EFS rates of the patients treated with chemotherapy alone and those treated with chemotherapy combined with rituximab were (79.3±5.1)% and (92.9±1.4)% (χ²=14.23, P<0.001) respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that stage Ⅳ (including leukemia stage), serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)>4-fold normal value, and with residual tumor in the mid-term evaluation were risk factors for poor prognosis (HR=1.38,1.23,8.52,95%CI 1.05-1.82,1.05-1.43,3.96-18.30). Conclusions: The CNCL-B-NHL-2017 regimen show significant effect in the treatment of pediatric BL. The combination of rituximab improve the efficacy further.

PLCOjs, a FAIR GWAS web SDK for the NCI Prostate, Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian Cancer Genetic Atlas project

MOTIVATION

The Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG) and the Division of Cancer Prevention (DCP) at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) have recently generated genome-wide association study (GWAS) data for multiple traits in the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian (PLCO) Genomic Atlas project. The GWAS included 110 000 participants. The dissemination of the genetic association data through a data portal called GWAS Explorer, in a manner that addresses the modern expectations of FAIR reusability by data scientists and engineers, is the main motivation for the development of the open-source JavaScript software development kit (SDK) reported here.

RESULTS

The PLCO GWAS Explorer resource relies on a public stateless HTTP application programming interface (API) deployed as the sole backend service for both the landing page's web application and third-party analytical workflows. The core PLCOjs SDK is mapped to each of the API methods, and also to each of the reference graphic visualizations in the GWAS Explorer. A few additional visualization methods extend it. As is the norm with web SDKs, no download or installation is needed and modularization supports targeted code injection for web applications, reactive notebooks (Observable) and node-based web services.

AVAILABILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION

code at https://github.com/episphere/plco; project page at https://episphere.github.io/plco.

MicroRNA-182 inhibits osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells by targeting Smad1

The present study aimed to screen abnormally expressed microRNAs (miRs/miRNAs) in patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis (POP) and explore their mechanisms via functional verification. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were extracted from healthy controls and patients with POP. Differences in osteogenic differentiation and proliferation of human BMSCs were compared between the two groups using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and alizarin red staining. A rat model of POP was established. Compared with patients with POP, human BMSCs in healthy controls had significantly enhanced viability at 24, 36, 48 and 72 h. The results of alizarin red staining revealed that the deposition of calcium minerals in human BMSCs were significantly lower in patients with POP. Based on miRNA microarray and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) results, the expression levels of miR-7010 and miR-467c decreased, while miR-132 and miR-182 expression increased in the human BMSCs of patients with POP. Alizarin red staining showed that miR-182 markedly suppressed the osteogenic differentiation of primary rat BMSCs in rats. Western blotting and immunofluorescence assay revealed that miR-182 inhibited the expression of osteogenesis markers runt-related transcription factor 2, osterix and actinin-associated LIM protein. The results of the luciferase reporter assay showed that Smad1 is the direct target of miR-182. In rat primary BMSCs, Smad1 overexpression abolished the inhibitory effect of miR-182 on osteogenesis, indicating that miR-182 inhibits osteogenic differentiation of primary rat BMSCs in rats by targeting Smad1. Finally, in vivo experimental results showed that the biomechanical characteristics of bone tissues in POP rats were significantly enhanced by miR-182 inhibition, while they were significantly weakened by miR-182 overexpression. MiR-182 inhibits osteogenic differentiation of rat BMSCs, thus aggravating POP in rats.

[Expression of SOX-11 and TFE3 in solid-pseudopapillary tumor of pancreas and its clinical significance]

Objective: To investigate the expression status and diagnostic value of SRY related high mobility group box 11 (SOX-11) and transcription factor E-3 (TFE3) in solid pseudopapillary tumors of pancreas (SPTPs). Methods: Thirty-eight cases of SPTPs, 36 cases of well-differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs) and six cases of pancreatic acinar cell carcinomas (PACCs) were collected at the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School from 2012 to 2019. The expression of SOX-11, TFE3 and β-catenin was detected by immunohistochemistry, and the TFE3 gene status was detected by FISH in 18 cases of SPTPs. Results: Among the 38 SPTP patients, 29 were female and 9 were male, with a mean age of 50 years; among 36 PanNET patients, 32 were female and 4 were male, with a mean age of 39 years; for the six PACC patients, four were male and two were female, with a mean age of 60 years. β-catenin was positive in all 38 SPTPs, but was negative in all 36 PanNETs and 5/6 PACCs. SOX-11 was positive in 35/38 (92.1%) of SPTPs, but was negative in all 36 PanNETs and 6 PACCs. TFE3 was positive in 36/38 (94.7%) of SPTPs, but was negative in all 36 PanNETs and 6 PACCs. Among these three tumors, the specificity and sensitivity of β-catenin were 97.6% and 100.0%, the specificity and sensitivity of SOX-11 were 92.1% and 100.0%, the specificity and sensitivity of TFE3 were 94.7% and 100.0%, respectively. There was a significant difference of the expression status of all three markers in SPTPs compared with PanNETs and PACCs (P<0.01). The results of SOX-11 and TFE3 immunostaining showed high consistency (Kappa>0.6). No gene rearrangement (0/18) of TFE3 was found in SPTPs. Conclusion: SOX-11 and TFE3 are highly expressed in SPTPs, and their specificity in the differential diagnosis of SPTPs is better than that of β-catenin.

[Clinical study of S-1 single agent adjuvant chemotherapy in the radical resection of extrahepatic biliary carcinoma]

Objective: To explore the clinical efficacy of S-1 single agent adjuvant chemotherapy for the patients undergoing radical resection of extrahepatic biliary carcinoma. Methods: The clinical data of 108 patients with extrahepatic biliary carcinoma receiving radical resection who were admitted from January 2014 to June 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 62 males(57.4%)and 46 females(42.6%),with a median age of 59 years (range:26 to 79 years),10 cases(9.3%) in stage Ⅱ,85 cases(78.7%) in stage Ⅲ, and 13 cases (12.0%) in stage Ⅳ, 40 cases(37.0%) of hilar cholangiocarcinoma, 8 cases(7.4%) of middle cholangiocarcinoma, 25 cases (23.2%) of distal cholangiocarcinoma, 35 cases(32.4%) of gallbladder carcinoma.After radical resection of extrahepatic biliary carcinoma, 49 patients receiving S-1 single agent chemotherapy and 59 patients receiving non-special treatment were divided into the chemotherapy group and the operation group,respectively. All the dates of the patients were followed up and collected with the overall survival time,tumor-free survival time,1,2 and 3-year survival rate after operation,and the rate of major toxic reaction during chemotherapy of the chemotherapy group. Survival curve was drawn by the Kaplan-Meier method, and survival analysis was done using the Log-rank test. Results: There were no significant differences in the general date of two groups(sex, age, tumor size, tumor site, TNM stages, degree of differentiation). The median overall survival time and the median tumor-free survival time in the chemotherapy group were 27 months and 21 months,respectively,and in the operation group were 21 months and 17 months,respectively. There were differences between the two groups in the overall survival rates(χ(2)=3.967,P<0.05) and the 2 and 3-year survival rate(63.3%,36.6%;41.6%,20.4%;χ(2)=4.510,P<0.05;χ(2)=6.143,P<0.05),but the 1-year overall survival rate (83.4%,79.7%)was not statistically significant(χ(2)=0.286,P>0.05). There were no significant differences in the tumor-free survival time,1,2 and 3-year tumor-free survival rate(77.6%,41.4%,33.1%;62.7%,30.9%,21.2%)between the two groups(χ(2)=0.876,P>0.05;χ(2)=0.252,P>0.05;χ(2)=1.571,P>0.05;χ(2)=3.323,P>0.05,respectively). The main toxic reaction during chemotherapy were dyspepsia(28.6%, 14/49), anemia(26.5%, 13/49), and leukopenia(22.5%, 11/49), all of which were mild. Conclusion: S-1 single agent chemotherapy after radical reseetion of extrahepatic biliary carcinoma could effectly improve the survival of patients and all of the main toxic reaction during chemotherapy were mild.

[Establishment of a 3D printing system for bone tissue engineering scaffold fabrication and the evaluation of its controllability over macro and micro structure precision]

OBJECTIVE

To establish a 3D printing system for bone tissue engineering scaffold fabrication based on the principle of fused deposition modeling, and to evaluate the controllability over macro and micro structure precision of polylactide (PLA) and polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds.

METHODS

The system was composed of the elements mixture-I bioprinter and its supporting slicing software which generated printing control code in the G code file format. With a diameter of 0.3 mm, the nozzle of the bioprinter was controlled by a triaxial stepper motor and extruded melting material. In this study, a 10 mm×10 mm×2 mm cuboid CAD model was designed in the image ware software and saved as STL file. The file was imported into the slicing software and the internal structure was designed in a pattern of cuboid pore uniform distribution, with a layer thickness of 0.2 mm. Then the data were exported as Gcode file and ready for printing. Both polylactic acid (PLA) and polycaprolactone (PCL) filaments were used to print the cuboid parts and each material was printed 10 times repeatedly. After natural cooling, the PLA and PCL scaffolds were removed from the platform and the macro dimensions of each one were measured using a vernier caliper. Three scaffolds of each material were randomly selected and scanned by a 3D measurement laser microscope. Measurements of thediameter of struts and the size of pores both in the interlayer overlapping area and non-interlayer overlapping area were taken.

RESULTS

The pores in the printed PLA and PCL scaffolds were regular and interconnected. The printed PLA scaffolds were 9.950 (0.020) mm long, 9.950 (0.003) mm wide and 1.970 (0.023) mm high, while the PCL scaffolds were 9.845 (0.025) mm long, 9.845 (0.045) mm wide and 1.950 (0.043) mm high. The struts of both the PLA and PCL parts became wider inthe interlayer overlapping area, and the former was more obvious. The difference between the designed size and the printed size was greatest in the pore size of the PLA scaffolds in interlayer overlapping area [(274.09 ± 8.35) μm)], which was 26.91 μm. However, it satisfied the requirements for research application.

CONCLUSION

The self-established 3D printing system for bone tissue engineering scaffold can be used to print PLA and PCL porous scaffolds. The controllability of this system over macro and micro structure can meet the precision requirements for research application.

[Characteristics of acute myocardial infarction caused by spontaneous coronary artery dissection in young female patients]

Objective: To investigate the characteristics of acute myocardial infarction caused by spontaneous coronary artery dissection(SCAD) in young female patients. Methods: In this casecontrolstudy,127 young(≤55 years) female patients with acute myocardial infarction onset within 1 week in Nanjing first hospital, Xuzhou central hospital, affiliated hospital of Xuzhou medical university, and Lianyungang first people's hospital were enrolled between January 2013 and February 2017,and the clinical data were retrospectively analyzed. According to their clinical manifestations and coronary angiography(CAG) results,the patients were divided into coronary atherosclerosis disease(CAD) group(CAG evidenced atherosclerosis, n=83) and SCAD group(CAG detected coronary artery dissection,n=44).The SCAD patients were subdivided into definite group (the results affirmed from intravenous ultrasound or optical coherence tomography, n=21) and probable group (the CAG results highly confirmed to characteristics of SCAD,but no intravenous ultrasound or optical coherence tomography image affirmation,n=23). Then, according to the different treatment strategies, the SCAD patients were subdivided into conservative treatment group(treated with drugs,n=19) and interventional therapy group(treated with percutaneous coronary intervention,n=25). Results: (1)Compared to CAD group, patients in the SCAD group had less risk factors, such as hypertension history (25.0% (11/44) vs. 45.8% (38/83) , P=0.022) and diabetes history (6.8% (3/44) vs. 21.7% (18/83) , P=0.043),and had lower levels of fasting blood glucose (5.34(4.59,5.87) mmol/L vs. 7.12(5.18,8.60)mmol/L, P=0.001),total cholesterol((3.94±1.14) mmol/L vs. (4.91±1.50) mmol/L, P=0.001),triglyceride(1.42 (0.91,1.64) mmol/L vs. 1.89 (1.23,2.45) mmol/L, P=0.005),and low density lipoprotein cholesterol ((2.24±0.91) mmol/L vs. (2.94±1.16) mmol/L, P=0.001),CAG results showed that patients in the SCAD group had more single vessel lesion (88.6% (39/44) vs. 39.8% (33/83) , P=0.001), and their target lesion stenosis was less severe ( (79.2±22.4) % vs. (91.5±12.1) %, P=0.001). (2) The clinical risk factors such as hypertension history, diabetes history, smoking history, family history of cardiology disease, fasting blood glucose,total cholesterol,triglyceride and low density lipoprotein cholesterol were similar between definite group and probable group (all P>0.05). CAG results showed that prevalence of single vessel lesion (100% (21/21) vs. 78.3% (18/23) , P=0.050) and percent of target lesion stenosis ( (76.9±20.6) % vs. (81.2±24.1) %, P=0.529) were similar between definite group and probable group.(3)There were no significant difference in single vessel(84.0% (21/25) vs. 94.7% (18/19) , P=0.370), target lesion stenosis(85.0(70.0,100.0)% vs. 75.0(50.0,90.0)%, P=0.186),and survival rates in hospital(96.0% (24/25) vs. 100% (19/19) , P=1.000) between interventional therapy group and conservative treatment group. Conclusions: Prevalence of SCAD is highin young female patients with acute myocardial infarction. Acute myocardial infarction patients with less risk factors of CAD and with CAG showing smooth lesion of narrowing segment and normal finding in the other vessels, are more likely to be diagnosed with SCAD.Acute myocardial infarction patients caused by SCAD have high survival rate either receiving percutaneous coronary intervention or drug treatment.

[The value of urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin for early diagnosis of contrast-induced nephropathy]

Objective: To explore the value of urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) for early diagnosis of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) in patients who underwent percutaneous coronary angiography (CAG) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods: From May 2015 to January 2016, 506 consecutive patients who underwent CAG or PCI in our hospital were enrolled in this prospective study. Patients were divided into CIN group (n=47) and non-CIN group (n=459). Clinical and interventional data were compared between the two groups. Spearman ranking correlation coefficient was used to define the relation between NGAL and CIN, and multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identif independent predictors of CIN. Receiver-operator characteristic (ROC) curve was generated, and area under the curve (AUC) was calculated and sensitivity and specificity for CIN diagnosis were analyzed. Results: (1) Basic clinical and interventional data including age, incidence of diabetes, hypertension and chronic heart failure, level of systolic blood pressure, serum creatine before procedure, use of isotonic contrast agent, contrast volume, Mehran score, operation time, treatment number of coronary artery, hydration and medication were all similar between two groups (all P>0.05). (2) Urinary NAGL level at 24 and 48 h after procedure, serum creatinine (Scr) level at 48 h after procedure, and ΔNGAL_{24-0 h} were significantly higher in CIN group than in non-CIN group (all P<0.01), but the differences of urinary NGAL level before procedure, Scr level 24 h after procedure, and ΔNGAL_{48-24 h} were similar between two groups (all P>0.05). (3)The positive correlation was found by Spearman ranking correlation between ΔNGAL_{24-0 h} and CIN (r=0.478, P<0.001). (4) Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that estimated glomerular filtration rate(OR=1.020, 95%CI 1.005-1.035, P=0.007) and ΔNGAL_{24-0 h} (OR=1.020, 95%CI 1.014-1.027, P<0.001) were the independent predictors of CIN.(5) ROC curve showed that the AUC of NGAL with the cutoff value 4.65 was 0.899(0.854, 0.944)for diagnosis of CIN (sensitivity 93.6%, and specificity 0.944). Conclusion: The rise of urinary NGAL level at 24 and 48 hours after CAG or PCI is suggestive of CIN and could be used as a reliable parameter for the early diagnose of CIN.

Worldwide Esophageal Cancer Collaboration: pathologic staging data

We report data-simple descriptions of patient characteristics, cancer categories, and non-risk-adjusted survival-for patients with pathologically staged cancer of the esophagus and esophagogastric junction after resection or ablation with no preoperative therapy from the Worldwide Esophageal Cancer Collaboration (WECC). Thirty-three institutions from six continents submitted de-identified data using standard definitions: demographics, comorbidities, clinical cancer categories, and all-cause mortality from first management decision. Of 13,300 patients, 5,631 had squamous cell carcinoma, 7,558 adenocarcinoma, 85 adenosquamous carcinoma, and 26 undifferentiated carcinoma. Patients were older (62 years) men (80%) with normal body mass index (51%), little weight loss (1.8 kg), 0-2 ECOG performance status (83%), and a history of smoking (70%). Cancers were pT1 (24%), pT2 (15%), pT3 (50%), pN0 (52%), pM0 (93%), and pG2-G3 (78%); most involved distal esophagus (71%). Non-risk-adjusted survival for both squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma was monotonic and distinctive across pTNM. Survival was more distinctive for adenocarcinoma than squamous cell carcinoma when pT was ordered by pN. Survival for pTis-1 adenocarcinoma was better than for squamous cell carcinoma, although monotonic and distinctive for both. WECC pathologic staging data is improved over that of the 7th edition, with more patients studied and patient and cancer variables collected. These data will be the basis for the 8th edition cancer staging manuals following risk adjustment for patient, cancer, and treatment characteristics, and should direct 9th edition data collection. However, the role of pure pathologic staging as the principal point of reference for esophageal cancer staging is waning.

Evaluation of candidate barcoding markers in Orinus (Poaceae)

Orinus is an alpine endemic genus of Poaceae. Because of the imperfect specimens, high level of intraspecific morphological variability, and homoplasies of morphological characters, it is relatively difficult to delimitate species of Orinus by using morphology alone. To this end, the DNA barcoding has shown great potential in identifying species. The present study is the first attempt to test the feasibility of four proposed DNA barcoding markers (matK, rbcL, trnH-psbA, and ITS) in identifying four currently revised species of Orinus from the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP). Among all the single-barcode candidates, the differentiation power was the highest for the nuclear internal transcribed spacer (ITS), while the chloroplast barcodes matK (M), rbcL (R), and trnH-psbA (H) could not identify the species. Meanwhile, the differentiation efficiency of the nuclear ITS (I) was also higher than any two- or three-locus combination of chloroplast barcodes, or even a combination of ITS and any chloroplast barcode except H + I and R + I. All the combinations of chloroplast barcodes plus the nuclear ITS, H + I, and R + I differentiated the highest portion of species. The highest differentiation rate for the barcodes or barcode combinations examined here was 100% (H + I and R + I). In summary, this case study showed that the nuclear ITS region represents a more promising barcode than any maternally inherited chloroplast region or combination of chloroplast regions in differentiating Orinus species from the QTP. Moreover, combining the ITS region with chloroplast regions may improve the barcoding success rate.

Factors affecting the use of anti-amoebiasis protective measures among Taiwan immigrants returning to amoebiasis-endemic regions

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the predictors of use of anti-amoebiasis protective measures (AAPMs) among Taiwan immigrants returning to their country of origin, using the Health Belief Model (HBM) to guide the investigation.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

Between March and May 2011, all permanent immigrants originating from amoebiasis-endemic countries who received services at the immigrant service centres in Taipei or Tainan and who reported that they had returned to their country of origin within the past five years were enrolled in the study. A structured questionnaire containing questions on sociodemographic characteristics and items related to the constructs of the HBM was used as the data collection instrument.

RESULTS

Complete information was collected from 384 immigrants, with a response rate of 80% (384/480). The mean age of the subjects was 38.4 years (standard deviation 10.6 years). The majority (70%) of participants did not receive travel information through a pretravel consultation, and more than 17% reported that they did not use measures to prevent amoebiasis. Multiple regression analyses revealed that Chinese proficiency, pretravel consultation and lower barriers to using protective measures were significantly associated with the use of AAPMs during return trips to country of origin (R(2) = 0.45; F = 77.5; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The HBM significantly predicted the use of AAPMs in this study. A high proportion of immigrants did not use appropriate AAPMs when they returned to their country of origin. Educational approaches should be targeted at immigrants originating from amoebiasis-endemic regions who return to their country of origin.

Ginkgo biloba extract attenuates oxLDL-induced endothelial dysfunction via an AMPK-dependent mechanism

Atherosclerosis is a complex inflammatory arterial disease, and oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) is directly associated with chronic vascular inflammation. Previous studies have shown that Ginkgo biloba extract (GbE) acts as a therapeutic agent for neurological and cardiovascular disorders. However, the mechanisms mediating the actions of GbE are still largely unknown. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that GbE protects against oxLDL-induced endothelial dysfunction via an AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-dependent mechanism. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were treated with GbE, followed by oxLDL, for indicated time periods. Results from Western blot showed that GbE inhibited the membrane translocation of the NADPH oxidase subunits p47(phox) and Rac-1 and attenuated the increase in protein expression of membrane subunits gp91 and p22(phox) caused by oxLDL-induced AMPK dephosphorylation and subsequent PKC activation. AMPK-α(1)-specific small interfering RNA-transfected cells that had been exposed to GbE followed by oxLDL revealed elevated levels of PKC and p47(phox). In addition, exposure to oxLDL resulted in reduced AMPK-mediated Akt/endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase signaling and the induction of phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, which, in turn, activated NF-κB-mediated inflammatory responses, such as the release of interleukin-8, the expression of the adhesion molecule, and the adherence of monocytic cells to human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Furthermore, oxLDL upregulated the expression of inducible NO synthase, thereby augmenting the formation of NO and protein nitrosylation. Pretreatment with GbE, however, exerted significant cytoprotective effects in a dose-dependent manner. Results from this study may provide insight into a possible molecular mechanism by which GbE protects against oxLDL-induced endothelial dysfunction.

Evaluation for the ecological quality status of coastal waters in East China Sea using fuzzy integrated assessment method

This research presented an evaluation for the ecological quality status (EcoQS) of three semi-enclosed coastal areas using fuzzy integrated assessment method (FIAM). With this method, the hierarchy structure was clarified by an index system of 11 indicators selected from biotic elements and physicochemical elements, and the weight vector of index system was calculated with Delphi-Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) procedure. Then, the FIAM was used to achieve an EcoQS assessment. As a result of assessment, most of the sampling stations demonstrated a clear gradient in EcoQS, ranging from high to poor status. Among the four statuses, high and good, owning a ratio of 55.9% and 26.5%, respectively, were two dominant statuses for three bays, especially for Sansha Bay and Luoyuan Bay. The assessment results were found consistent with the pressure information and parameters obtained at most stations. In addition, the sources of uncertainty in classification of EcoQS were also discussed.

Effects of supplemental copper and chromium on the serum and egg traits of laying hens

1. This study investigated the effects of supplemental copper and chromium on the serum and egg traits of laying hens using 144 forty-five-week-old White Leghorn layers. The hens were randomly assigned into 9 groups to conduct this 3 copper (0, 125 and 250 mg/kg as copper sulphate) x 3 chromium (0, 800 and 1600 microg/kg as chromium picolinate) factorial trial. 2. Egg yolk cholesterol was significantly reduced by supplementary copper (Cu) and chromium (Cr) and there was an interaction between Cu and Cr supplementation. Egg production, egg weight, eggshell strength and eggshell thickness were not influenced by Cu or Cr supplementation. 3. Serum cholesterol concentration was decreased by Cu supplementation and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) was reduced markedly by both Cu and Cr. On the other hand, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) was significantly increased by Cu and Cr. Interaction occurred between Cu and Cr in the VLDL and HDL parameters. Supplmentary Cu also reduced VLDL-cholesterol (VLDL-C) and enhanced HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C), while supplemental Cr had a contrary effect on these two parameters. 4. If minimum egg cholesterol content is the criterion, this study suggests that 125 mg/kg of Cu together with 800 to 1600 microg/kg of Cr provide adequate supplementary concentrations for laying hens.

EGCG protects against oxidized LDL-induced endothelial dysfunction by inhibiting LOX-1-mediated signaling

Lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1), originally identified as the major receptor for oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) in endothelial cells, plays a major role in the pathology of vascular diseases. Green tea consumption is associated with reduced cardiovascular mortality in some epidemiological studies. In the present study, we hypothesized that the most abundant polyphenolic compound in tea, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), can downregulate parameters of endothelial dysfunction by modulating LOX-1-regulated cell signaling. In cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), exposure to oxLDL (130 microg/ml), which led to an increase in LOX-1 expression at the RNA and protein levels, was abrogated by addition of EGCG or DPI, a well-known inhibitor of flavoproteins, suggesting the involvement of NADPH oxidase. Furthermore, oxLDL rapidly activated the membrane translocation of Rac-1 and p47phox and the subsequent induction of ROS generation, which was suppressed markedly by pretreatment with EGCG or anti-LOX-1 monoclonal antibody. OxLDL also increased p38 MAPK phosphorylation and decreased phosphorylation of the amino-terminal region of Akt, with maximal induction at about 30 min, and NF-kappaB phosphorylation within 1 h, resulting in redox-sensitive signaling. In addition, oxLDL diminished the expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), enhanced the expression of endothelin-1 and adhesion molecules (ICAM, E-selectin, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1), and increased the adherence of monocytic THP-1 cells to HUVECs. Pretreatment with EGCG, however, exerted significant cytoprotective effects in all events. These data suggest that EGCG inhibits the oxLDL-induced LOX-1-mediated signaling pathway, at least in part, by inhibiting NADPH oxidase and consequent ROS-enhanced LOX-1 expression, which contributes to further ROS generation and the subsequent activation of NF-kappaB via the p38 MAPK pathway. Results from this study may provide insight into a possible molecular mechanism by which EGCG suppresses oxLDL-mediated vascular endothelial dysfunction.

Fabrication and characterization of high-T(c) YBa(2)Cu(3)O(7-x) nanoSQUIDs made by focused ion beam milling

We have fabricated high-T(c) nanoscale superconducting quantum interference devices (nanoSQUIDs) with a hole size of 250 nm × 250 nm based on a 100 nm bridge at 77 K by focused ion beam milling and ion implantation. At 78 K, the curve of the voltage branch became roughly linear and agreed with the Josephson-like behavior. The sample exhibited strong flux flow behavior at temperatures under 76 K. The voltage flux characteristic curves, V -I(mod), of the nanoSQUID at different bias currents at 78 K were observed. Typically, critical currents of 15 µA and peak-to-peak values of the voltage flux transfer function of 3.7 µV were measured. The measured data strongly suggest that the weak link structure could be a superconducting metal with a critical temperature T(c)' smaller than that (T(c)) of other YBa(2)Cu(3)O(7-x) (YBCO) films. This fabrication method of combining a nanobridge and ion implantation can improve the yield of nanojunctions and nanoSQUIDs.

Effect of caponization and testosterone implantation on hepatic lipids and lipogenic enzymes in male chickens

This study was conducted to determine the role and effects of testosterone in lipogenesis by measuring and analyzing the lipid composition and lipogenic enzyme activity of livers from capons treated with various doses of exogenous testosterone implant. Healthy and uniform male Single Comb White Leghorn chickens were caponized at 12 wk of age. Sixteen-week-old capons were randomly selected for a 10-wk experiment. Fifteen intact males and 15 capons were used for trial 1. In trial 2, 10 sham-operated males and 40 capons were used. The capons were randomly divided into 4 independent treatments with sialistic implants of cholesterol (1.62 mm i.d., 3.6 mm o.d., 9.24 +/- 0.36 mg; CHOL), low testosterone (1 mm i.d., 3 mm o.d., 5.88 +/- 0.23 mg), medium testosterone (1.62 mm i.d., 3.16 mm o.d., 9.81 +/- 0.17 mg), or high testosterone (2 mm i.d., 4 mm o.d., 16.7 +/- 0.24 mg). In trial 1, the results showed that caponization increased total hepatic lipid and triacylglycerol contents and decreased the nonesterified fatty acid content (P < 0.05) compared with the intact male. Meanwhile, caponization increased nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate -malic dehydrogenase (MDH) activity and MDH mRNA content (P = 0.09) simultaneously. In trial 2, comparing treatments with the various implantation doses of testosterone, the liver triacylglycerol content of capons the medium-dose implantation was decreased as compared with those receiving CHOL (P < 0.05). The total lipid and phospholipid contents of liver were decreased in capons receiving the high-dose implantation (P < 0.05), whereas the relative weight and nonesterified fatty acid content were increased (P < 0.05) and reached the same level as those in the sham treatment (P > 0.05). With an increased implantation dose, MDH activity of capons receiving the medium dose or higher was not different from those receiving the CHOL and sham treatments (P > 0.05). The increase in MDH activity at the transcriptional and translational levels suggests that caponization may positively regulate hepatic lipogenesis. In contract, implantation of testosterone up to the threshold concentration depressed hepatic lipogensis and lipid accumulation.

Lipoprotein profiles and components in Tsaiya ducks under ad libitum feeding and fasting

This study investigated lipoprotein compositions and distribution in Tsaiya ducks under ad libitum feeding and fasting. The study was conducted on each of thirty Tsaiya ducks over two 4-week periods. Each of the 30 Tsaiya ducks was randomly allocated into an ad libitum feeding group or a 3-day fasting group during the growing period (8-12 weeks old) and during the initial laying period (26-30 weeks old; 10-14 weeks after the onset of laying), respectively. Experimental results indicated that HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is the primary lipoprotein species in growing ducks but that in laying ducks the major population of lipoprotein is VLDL (very low density lipoprotein). Protein and cholesteryl ester were identified as the major components of HDL during both periods; triacylglycerol (TG) was the largest proportion of VLDL in both periods. In laying ducks VLDL contains more TG than in growing ducks; VLDL particle sizes in laying ducks were larger than in growing ducks. Fasting significantly decreased VLDL levels during both periods. The TG content in most lipoproteins was also decreased by fasting during both test periods. In contrast, the cholesteryl ester and free cholesterol in most lipoproteins were increased by fasting. The particle size of HDL and VLDL also decreased during fasting. This study indicated that lipoprotein profiles and components in Tsaiya ducks during the laying period were different from during the growing period and were affected by fasting.

Caponization and testosterone implantation effects on blood lipid and lipoprotein profile in male chickens

To understand the role of lipid metabolism in increasing body fat accumulation after caponization of male chickens, trials were conducted to determine the effects of levels of testosterone implantation on lipoprotein composition. Male chickens were caponized at 12 wk and selected at 16 wk for a 10-wk feeding experiment. Fifteen male and 15 caponized (capon) chickens were used in trial 1. Ten sham operated chickens (sham) and 40 capons were randomly divided among 4 treatments in trial 2; the treatments were as follows: implantation of cholesterol (1.62 mm i.d. x 3.16 mm o.d., 9.24+/-0.36 mg) or implantation of testosterone at low (1 mm i.d. x 3 mm, o.d., 5.88+/-0.23 mg), medium (1.62 mm i.d. x 3.16 mm, o.d., 9.81+/-0.17 mg), or high (2 mm i.d. x 4 mm, o.d., 16.7+/-0.24 mg) dose. The results of trial 1 showed that caponization decreased (P < 0.05) blood testosterone concentrations and increased (P < 0.05) abdominal fat weight and relative abdominal fat weight in capons. Caponization also increased low density lipoprotein (LDL), high density lipoprotein (HDL), LDL protein, and HDL protein and decreased LDL-free cholesterol (LDL-FC), HDL-FC, and HDL-phospholipid (HDL-PL) percentages (P < 0.05). In trial 2 capons implanted with increasing testosterone levels exhibited proportional increases in blood testosterone concentration, although blood testosterone concentration in implanted capons were not fully restored to those of the sham group. High dose testosterone implantation inhibited abdominal fat accumulation and increased glucose and glycerol concentrations compared with the cholesterol implantation. Caponization of male chickens decreased the androgen level and increased the blood triacylglyceride content. Caponization also changed the lipoprotein profiles, which resulted in increased lipid storage capacity. The testosterone concentration, therefore, must achieve threshold concentrations to inhibit lipid accumulation in the testosterone implanted capon.

Use of a molar clamp to isolate two adjacent single-rooted teeth: a clinical aid

AIM

To emphasize the importance of rubber dam isolation in root canal treatment and to present a technique to simultaneously isolate two single-rooted teeth using a molar clamp.

SUMMARY

Isolation of two adjacent teeth with inadequate tooth structure is a challenge. The split-dam technique or using two clamps have drawbacks. This report presents a technique to simultaneously isolate two adjacent single-rooted teeth that are difficult to isolate by conventional methods. Its advantages are efficiency, reduction of radiation exposure, better access, good visibility and isolation.

KEY LEARNING POINTS

The basis of this technique is to isolate two teeth as two roots of a molar tooth. The indications for this technique are two adjacent prepared crowns and crownless roots. The appropriate molar clamp can be selected on the basis of the mesial-distal clamp jaw distance being equal to the mesial-distal spacing of the two roots. The buccal-lingual jaw distance of the clamp should be smaller than the dimension of the roots to provide adequate retention.

Novel transformations of gamma-silyl nitro compounds

Introduction of a gamma-silyl group into nitro compounds of dihydrobenzofuran, dihydrobenzo[b]thiophene, and dihydrofuran allowed new transformations to take place in the presence of a Lewis acid to give the corresponding alpha,beta-unsaturated oximes or multisubstituted dihydrofurans, respectively, in good to excellent yields.[reaction: see text]

[Two complementary dominant genes controlling apomixis in genus Citrus and poncirus]

Apomixis is very common in Citrus genus and its related genus. Two monoembryonic tangerine varieties (C. reticulata Blanco) Clementine and Wilking were used as seed parents to cross with four polyembryonic orange varieties [C. sinensis (L.) Osbeck]. Both sexual and apomictic progenies were found in each F1 population with different segregation ratios. In a total of 74 Wilking progenies, 23 were monoembryonic and 51 polyembryonic and the ratio of sexual and apomictic progenies was about 1:2 tested either in each individual cross or in the whole Wilking cross combionations. In Clementine progenies, 84 were monoembryonic and 71 polyembryonic and the ratio was about 1:1 tested either in each individual cross or in the whole Clementine cross combionations. According to the results together with other data published, a possible apomixis controlling mechanism was proposed, which involves two complementary dominant genes named as A1 and A2 that control apomixis in genus Citrus and Poncirus. Trees of genotype A1-A2-, except for homozygous of dominant gene A1 (which is lethal), can produce apomixis seeds. And those of other genotypes will produce sexual seeds. The segregation and recombination of these two genes accorded with Mendel's genetic laws. The proposed mechanism could explain genotypes controlling polyembryony-monoembryony existing both in nature species and artificial hybridization progenies as well as most of the known hybridization results.

Hepatitis B viral polymerase fusion proteins are biologically active and can interact with the hepatitis C virus core protein in vivo

Hepadnaviruses and retroviruses are evolutionarily related families because they both require a process of reverse transcription for genome replication. However, hepadnaviruses produce polymerase (pol) and core proteins separately, while retroviruses synthesize a gag-pol fusion protein that is subsequently cleaved by a virally encoded protease to release a functional polymerase. To test whether an additional sequence at the N-terminus of pol in hepatitis B virus (HBV) interferes with its function, we created two plasmids expressing core-pol fusion proteins, core144-pol and core31-pol. Secreted particles obtained from HuH-7 cells, which were cotransfected with a core-pol fusion protein-expressing plasmid and a core-expressing plasmid, showed a positive signal of HBV DNA by the endogenous polymerase assay, indicating that the core-pol fusion proteins retain DNA priming, polymerization and RNase H activities. The fusion protein was detected in the cytoplasm of transfected cells and in secreted virions by immunoprecipitation. Furthermore, we found by immunofluorescence staining that the HBV core-pol fusion protein colocalized with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) core protein in cytoplasm and in lipid droplets. Immunoprecipitation studies showed that the anti-HCV core complex contained the HBV core-pol fusion protein while the anti-HBV pol complex contained the HCV core protein, which supports the hypothesis that the HCV core protein can form a complex with the HBV core-pol fusion protein.

[GnT-V overexpression in human hepatocarcinoma cells affects its migration and expression of cell adhesion molecules]

The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase V (GnT-V) overexpression on the migration of 7721 cells and its mechanism. The abilities of migration of both 7721 cells transfected with GnT-V cDNA and 7721 cells transfected with pcDNA3 was detected, the expressions of integrin and E-cadherin which are important adhesion molecules on surface membrane and closely related to the abilities of invasion and metastasis. Cell migration abilities were measured by the agarose drop explant method. Flow cytometric analysis (FACS) was applied to determine the relative amounts of integrin alpha 5 and beta 1 subunits on the cell surface while RTPCR was carried out to determine the expression of their mRNA. The expression of E-cadherin was examined by the immunocytochemical ABC method. Western blot analysis was carried out to examine the expression of beta-catenin. GnT-V overexpression enhanced evidently the migration ability of 7721 cells and increased the amount of integrin alpha 5 subunit to 2.9 times of that of control while the amount of beta 1 subunits was not significantly changed. Besides, the expressions of E-cadherin and beta-catenin were enhanced at different levels in GnT-V/7721 cells compared with mocked. The results suggested that the overexpression of GnT-V related to the production of N-linked sugar chains could promote the expressions of integrin, E-cadherin and beta-catenin on 7721 cells so that the migration ability of tumor cells was enhanced.

Effects of chromium nicotinate on performance, carcase characteristics and blood chemistry of growing turkeys

1. The objective of this trial was to study the effects of chromium nicotinate (Cr) supplementation on the performance, carcase characteristics and blood constituents of 9 to 22 week-old male turkeys. 2. Fifty-four 8-week-old male turkeys weighing 2.9 +/- 0.28 kg were allocated at random into 9 groups with 3 dietary treatments and 3 replicates. The dietary treatment was different dietary concentrations of chromium in the basal diet, to provide 0 (control), 1 or 3 mg/kg. The feeding trial lasted for 14 weeks. 3. Results showed that 1 mg/kg chromium supplementation significantly improved weight gain and food intake at 9 to 18 weeks of age but did not significantly influence performance at 19 to 22 week of age. The breast and thigh muscle were significantly increased in birds receiving 1 mg/kg chromium supplementation but were decreased by 3 mg/kg of supplementation. 4. Dietary chromium supplementation did not significantly influence other serum constituents, including insulin, HDL, VLDL+LDL, HDL-C, VLDL-C+LDL-C, total protein, albumin, and gamma-globulin at 18 and 22 weeks of age. 5. The serum triacylglycerol (TG) and uric acid contents were significantly increased, while glycerol and alpha-globulin were significantly reduced by 3 mg/kg chromium supplementation. However, 1 mg/kg chromium supplementation significantly reduced serum cholesterol and glycerol at 18-weeks old. At 22 weeks of age, 1 mg/kg chromium supplementation significantly increased serum glucose and decreased the uric acid concentration whereas 3 mg/kg chromium supplementation significantly increased the creatinine concentration and decreased beta-globulin concentration.

Larger trinucleotide repeat size in the androgen receptor gene of infertile men with extremely severe oligozoospermia

Androgens are significant regulators of human spermatogenesis. Their action is mediated through the androgen receptor (AR), which binds to the androgen responsive element on DNA and regulates gene transcription. Men become infertile with spinobulbar muscular atrophy (Kennedy disease) caused by a trinucleotide repeat expansion, > or = 40 CAG repeats, in the AR gene located on the X chromosome. In this prospective study, we investigated whether the variable size, larger repeats, of this trinucleotide could alter AR function and result in impaired spermatogenesis. A total of 69 infertile men were studied. Clinical and laboratory analysis showed idiopathic, nonobstructive azoospermia in 16 men, extremely severe oligozoospermia in 27 men (< 1 million sperm/mL), and severe oligozoospermia in 26 men (1 to 5 million sperm/mL). Fertile control men (n = 45) were selected by documented paternity proven by linkage analysis. Leukocyte DNA was analyzed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification across the AR repeat region. Accurate size determination of the PCR product using an ABI 373 DNA sequencer allowed precise calculation of CAG repeat sizes. The AR gene was not analyzed for other types of mutations. The difference in CAG repeat size between infertile men and proven fertile controls was statistically significant, P = .03. Patients with extremely severe oligozoospermia had significantly longer CAG repeat tracts (mean, 25.4 +/- 4.0; P = .0005; range 20-39) than controls (mean, 22 +/- 2.8; range 12-30) or patients with severe oligozoospermia (mean, 22.2 +/- 2.3; range 18-26). None of the 26 infertile men with sperm counts < 1 million/mL had < or = 19 CAG repeats compared with 6 out of 45 controls (13%; P = .06). This study suggests that some men with severe impairment of spermatogenesis have longer trinucleotide repeats in the AR gene. Although direct evidence is missing, lower affinity between androgen and the AR protein or decreased AR protein availability with longer repeats could be responsible for a diminished androgen effect on spermatogenesis. Two of the patients in the extremely severe oligozoospermia group had 35 and 39 CAG repeats, respectively (normal range is 11 to 33). Although not yet considered a mutation, longer trinucleotide repeats are unstable and might either expand or contract between generations. If they expand, conception through the use of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), could result in the son of an

Oral treatment of mule ducks with arsenicals for inducing fatty liver

The aim of this study was to determine the dosage and the compounds of arsenic that induce fatty liver in mule ducks and also to investigate their effects on tissue residues. One hundred four ducks, 8 wk old, were randomly selected for one of six dietary treatments in Trial 1 or one of seven dietary treatments in Trial 2. Different levels of roxarsone were administrated: 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, or 50 mg/d, respectively, in Trial 1. In Trial 2, the experimental treatments were of the same level (11.36 mg/d) with different sources of arsenic that included the control without As, roxarsone (3-nitro-4-hydroxyphenylarsonic acid), arsanilic acid, phenylarsonic acid, O-nitro-phenylarsonic acid, As2O3, or As2O5. Both trials lasted 3 wk, with 1 wk on the treatment followed by 2 wk of withdrawal. Results in Trial 1 showed that a dose of 40 mg roxarsone/d increased liver weight and caused fatty liver, whereas administration of 50 mg/d was lethal. In Trial 2, administration of arsenic (11.36 mg/d) for 1 wk significantly depressed feed intake in the roxarsone, As2O3, and As2O5 groups (P < 0.05), whereas the treatment significantly decreased only live weight gain in the roxarsone group (P < 0.05). Administration of roxarsone alone increased (P < 0.05) serum cholesterol (CHOL), albumin (ALB), and total protein (TP), whereas only As2O3 among treatments significantly decreased serum triacylglycerol (TG) concentration (P < 0.05). In the roxarsone, arsanilic acid, and phenylarsonic acid groups, serum high density lipoprotein (HDL) decreased to a greater extent (P < 0.05), and arsanilic acid treatment significantly increased the very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) (P < 0.05). After 2 wk of withdrawal, liver weights and relative liver weights were heavier in the treatment groups of roxarsone, As2O3, and As2O5 as compared to the control (P < 0.05). Levels of CHOL, TG, TP, and ALB were significantly higher in the groups treated with As2O3 or As2O5 as compared to the control (P < 0.05). The roxarsone and arsanilic acid treatments significantly decreased HDL and increased VLDL in plasma (P < 0.05). The creatine kinase (CK) level in the roxarsone, As2O3, and As2O5 groups was significantly higher compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Among the As sources, roxarsone, As2O3, and As2O5 caused fatty liver in mule ducks.

Effect of roxarsone inclusion in the diet on the performance and hepatic lipid metabolism of laying Tsaiya duck

1. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of roxarsone (3-nitro-4-hydroxyphenylarsonic acid) inclusion in the diet on the performance, liver function and lipid metabolism in the liver of laying Brown Tsaiya ducks. 2. Sixty 36-week-old laying ducks were selected and allocated at random into 4 dietary treatments with 3 replications for each treatment. Feeding was for 7 weeks with 3 weeks of experimental diets followed by a 4 week withdrawal period. The experimental diets were supplemented with 0, 50, 100 and 300 mg/kg roxarsone, respectively 3. Dietary inclusion of 50 or 100 mg/kg roxarsone did not significantly promote performance. Inclusion of 300 mg/kg significantly depressed (P<0.05) performance, liver weight and content, serum triacylglycerol (TG), serum nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) and increased (P<0.05) cholesterol, creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in the serum at the end of 3 weeks on the experimental diet. 4. Laying characteristics returned to normal 4 weeks after withdrawal of roxarsone. The liver weight, fat and TG in the liver and serum concentrations of TG, NEFA, high density lipoprotein (HDL) and AST increased significantly (P<0.05), while the level of very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) decreased (P<0.05) at the end of the withdrawal period. More prominent vacuolised hepatic fatty cells were observed in laying ducks treated with 300 mg/kg of roxarsone.

Duplications and de novo deletions of the SMNt gene demonstrated by fluorescence-based carrier testing for spinal muscular atrophy

Approximately 95% of individuals with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) lack both copies of the SMNt gene at 5q13. The presence of a nearly identical centromeric homolog of the SMNt gene, SMNc, necessitates a quantitative polymerase chain reaction approach to direct carrier testing. Adapting a radioactivity-based method described previously, multiplex polymerase chain reaction was performed using fluorescently labeled primers followed by analysis on an ABI 373a DNA sequencer. The SMNt copy number was calculated from ratios of peak areas using both internal and genomic standards. Samples from 60 presumed carriers (50 parents of affected individuals and 10 relatives implicated by linkage analysis) and 40 normal control individuals were tested. Normalized results (to the mean of five or more control samples harboring two copies of the SMNt gene) were consistently within the ranges of 0.4 to 0.6 for carriers (one copy) and 0.8 to 1.2 for normal controls (two copies), without overlap. Combining linkage analyses with direct carrier test results demonstrated de novo deletions associated with crossovers, unaffected individuals carrying two SMNt gene copies on one chromosome and zero SMNt gene copies on the other chromosome, and unaffected individuals with three copies of the SMNt gene. This report demonstrates that fluorescence-based carrier testing for SMA is accurate, reproducible, and useful for genetic risk assessment, and that carrier testing may need to be combined with linkage analysis in certain circumstances.

Ataxin 1 and ataxin 3 in neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease

Neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease (NIID) is a multisystem neurodegenerative disorder characterized by large intranuclear aggregates in neurons of the central and peripheral nervous system. These ubiquitinated intranuclear inclusions are morphologically similar to the intraneuronal aggregates that have been identified in the CAG/polyglutamine expansion diseases. As rare aggregates in NIID contain a polyglutamine epitope, we further investigated the relationship between this disease and the CAG/polyglutamine expansion diseases. Here, we show that ataxin 1 and ataxin 3 proteins are recruited into aggregates in NIID in the absence of a CAG expansion in the SCA1 and SCA3 genes. These data support an association of NIID with the polyglutamine disorders and provide evidence of in vivo recruitment of proteins with polyglutamine tracts into intraneuronal aggregates.

Determination of total arsenic concentrations in nails by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

The analysis of trace elements in biological samples will extend our understanding of the impact that environmental exposure to these elements has on human health. Measuring arsenic content in nails has proven useful in studies evaluating the chronic body burden of arsenic. In this study, we developed methodology with inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for the determination of total arsenic in nails. We assessed the utility of the washing procedures for removing surface contamination. Four types of preanalysis treatments (water bath, sonication, water bath plus sonication, and control) after sample decomposition by nitric acid were compared to evaluate the digestion efficiencies. In addition, we studied the stability of the solution over 1 wk and the effect of acidity on the arsenic signal. Arsenic content in the digested solution was analyzed by using Ar-N2 plasma with Te as the internal standard. The results suggest that washing once with 1% Triton X-100 for 20 min for cleaning nail samples prior to ICP-MS analysis is satisfactory. Repeated measurement analysis of variance revealed that there was no significant difference among the various sample preparation techniques. Moreover, the measurements were reproducible within 1 wk, and acidity seemed to have no substantial influence on the arsenic signal. A limit of detection (on the basis of three times the standard deviation of the blank measurement) of 7 ng As/g toenail was achieved with this system, and arsenic recoveries from reference materials (human hair and nails) were in good agreement (95-106% recovery) with the certified/reference values of the standard reference materials. ICP-MS offers high accuracy and precision, as well as high-throughput capacity in the analysis of total arsenic in nail samples.

Proteolipid protein is necessary in peripheral as well as central myelin

Alternative products of the proteolipid protein gene (PLP), proteolipid protein (PLP) and DM20, are major components of compact myelin in the central nervous system, but quantitatively minor constituents of Schwann cells. A family with a null allele of PLP has a less severe CNS phenotype than those with other types of PLP mutations. Moreover, individuals with PLP null mutations have a demyelinating peripheral neuropathy, not seen with other PLP mutations of humans or animals. Direct analysis of normal peripheral nerve demonstrates that PLP is localized to compact myelin. This and the clinical and pathologic observations of the PLP null phenotype indicate that PLP/DM20 is necessary for proper myelin function both in the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Complete nucleotide sequence of the genome of Japanese encephalitis virus ling strain: the presence of a 25-nucleotide deletion in the 3'-nontranslated region

The complete sequence of the genome of the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) Ling strain isolated from the brain of a patient in Taiwan in 1965 was cloned by using the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction method. Seven overlapping cDNA clones that span the entire virus genome were isolated and sequenced to determine the complete nucleotide sequence, which is 10,951 nucleotides in length. As reported for three other JEV strains (Beijing-1, SA-14, and JaOArS982), the Ling strain contains 95 nucleotides in the 5' nontranslated region (NTR), followed by a single open reading frame of 10,296 nucleotides. However, the length of the 3' NTR of JEV Ling is 560 nucleotides, 25 nucleotides shorter than that of other JEV strains sequenced to date. Comparison of nucleotide and amino acid sequences among these four JEV strains showed that nucleotide (amino acid) sequence divergence in the translated region varied from 1.25% to 3.27% (0.49-1.63%). The nucleotide (amino acid) divergences between the Ling and Beijing-1 strains were 1.25% (0.87%) and between the SA-14 and JaOArS982 strains were 1.42% (0.49%). These values are lower than those found between the Ling and SA-14 [2.44% (1.02%)] or the Ling and JaOArS982 strains [2.84% (0.93%)], as well as those between Beijing-1 and SA-14 [3.14% (1.60%)] or Beijing-1 and JaOArS982 [3.27% (1.63%)] strains. Sequence comparisons of subregions of the genomes i.e., structural genes, nonstructural genes, or individual genes, showed divergence similar to that obtained by comparing the entire sequence. It is likely that the JEV sequence divergence between two human isolates or between two mosquito isolates is lower than that between a human isolate and a mosquito isolate.

No intermolecular interaction between the large hepatitis delta antigens is required for the secretion with hepatitis B surface antigen: a model of empty HDV particle

The large delta antigen (LDAg) of hepatitis D virus (HDV), which is similar to the small delta antigen (SDAg), except it has 19 additional amino acids and an isoprenylation signal at the C-terminus, is crucial for interacting with hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) to form a mature virion of HDV. Previous studies indicated that the LDAg alone, but not SDAg, can interact with HBsAg to form an empty particle. However, no evidence yet shows whether the intermolecular interaction of LDAg is necessary for forming an empty HDV particle. By cotransfection of plasmids encoding deletion or isoprenylation-negative mutants of LDAg with a plasmid encoding HBsAg into human hepatoma cells, we demonstrated that (i) the isoprenylation-negative LDAg cannot be secreted, (ii) the coiled-coil domain-deleted LDAg retains the secretion capability, (iii) the isoprenylation-negative LDAg can neither cosecrete with isoprenylation-positive LDAg nor suppress its secretion, and (iv) an intermolecular interaction between LDAgs is unlikely required for secretion. A hypothetical model of empty HDV particle containing HBsAg with isoprenylated LDAgs, which are probably present in a singular form, was then proposed.

Partial nucleotide sequence of Japanese encephalitis virus ling strain genome and comparison of the encoded structural proteins and nonstructural protein NS1 among Japanese encephalitis virus strains

Approximately 4000 nucleotides of the 5'-terminal portion of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) Ling strain genome were cloned and sequenced. This nucleotide sequence and its encoded C-PrM-E-NS1 polyprotein sequences were also compared with the corresponding sequences of other JE virus strains. Results demonstrated that the nucleotide sequence homology varied from 97.1 to 99.3% and the amino acid homology 98.6 to 98.9%. Based on homology, the Ling strain was closer to the Beijing-1 strain than to the SA14 and JaOArS982 strains. However, only on comparison of the E sequence, which neutralization, hemagglutination-inhibition and complement fixation antigenic determinants are located, between Ling and other JEV strains demonstrated that nucleotide sequence homology varied from 97.1% to 99.3% and amino acid homology from 98.6% to 99.2%. The Ling strain JEV is more closely related to the Beijing-1 strain than to the Nakayama NIH, SA14 and JaOArS982 strains in that order. Based on this analysis, the Taiwanese JEV strain appears to be more closely related to the Chinese strain than to the Japanese strain. Also, JEV strains isolated in humans are more closely related to each other than to JEV strains of mosquito isolates.

Changing seroepidemiology of hepatitis A virus infection between two regions in Taiwan differing in socioeconomic status

In Taiwan, hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection is hyperendemic, and prior to the late 1970s more than 85% of the population was infected by 15 years of age. In this study, the prevalence of HAV infection in two regions of Taiwan with differing standards of living is evaluated. Serum antibody to HAV (anti-HAV) was determined by enzyme immunoassay. A total of 4,218 subjects under the age of 16 years were enrolled. The first group of 1,581 subjects were residents of the prosperous western plain region where the socioeconomic status and living environment have improved greatly in the past 20 years; the second group of 2,637 subjects were aborigines inhabiting the eastern and central mountain regions where improvement in the standard of living lags far behind the western region. All serum samples were collected in 1991 except for 1,100 samples collected in 1989 from elementary and junior middle school students in Tainan city. The prevalence of HAV infection was 11.9% for the western region and 81.0% for the eastern and central regions. In the eastern and central regions, 80% of the subjects had been infected with HAV before the age of six years, in contrast to 0% in the western region. By the age of 13 years, only 6% of the subjects were infected in the western region; however 97% had been infected in the eastern and central regions. Among children under the age of 10 years, only 10.6% (10/94) of the IgM-anti-HAV positive cases had clinical symptoms. These findings indicate that HAV infection has a close relationship with socioeconomic status and environmental sanitation.

Clinical study of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia

From 1982 to 1991, we experienced 76 patients with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia which were confirmed by serologic tests. There were 32 (42%) male and 44 (58%) female patients. One patient had underlying disease of diabetes mellitus while the other patients were in good health. The age ranged from 9 months old to 72 years old. All the patients complained of fever and coughing; 63% had dry cough and 37% had sputum production. Upper respiratory tract complaints such as rhinorrhea, sore throat, or earache were noted in 57% of the patients. Fifty-five percent of the patients had GI symptoms of anorexia, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Other complaints included myalgia/arthralgia (29%), headache (30%), and general malaise (32%). Dyspnea (17%) and chest pain (20%) were occasional complaints. Seventy-one percent of the patients had WBC counts < 10000/cu mm and 29% > 10000/cu mm. The mean value of C-reactive protein (CRP) was 53.1 micrograms/ml, while 16% of the patients had a CRP value above 100 micrograms/ml. Thirty-one percent of the patients were noted to have a transient elevation of serum transaminase. Four different patterns of infiltration were seen in chest radiographic manifestation: 1) peribronchial and perivascular interstitial infiltrates (18.4%), 2) nonhomogeneous patchy consolidations (22.4%), 3) homogeneous acinar consolidations (27.6%), and 4) mixed interstitial and alveolar infiltrates (27.6%). Interstitial infiltration was more commonly seen in pediatric than adult patients (46% vs 20%). Other features of the radiologic manifestation were as follows: unilateral lesions in 80% of patients, single lobe lesions in 77%, lower lobe predominant in 69%, pleural effusion in 7%, and radiographic deterioration in 10%. Mycoplasmal pneumonia should be considered in the differential diagnosis of community-acquired pneumonias.

Flow cytometric DNA analysis of pleural effusions

A total of 71 cases of pleural effusion in patients with and without cancer were analyzed by conventional cytology and flow cytometry (FCM) in order to detect cells with an abnormal DNA content (aneuploidy). For cytologic examination, the samples were prepared using standard techniques. Sample for FCM analysis were centrifuged and exposed to hypotonic solution containing detergent and propidium iodide. Thirty-eight patients had pleural effusion due to benign disease, whilst 33 patients had primary lung cancer. All 38 patients with benign pleural effusions showed FCM diploidy. There were 17 aneuploidy (52%) and 16 diploidy (48%) in the 33 patients with lung cancer by FCM analysis. Four of these 33 effusions were cytologically negative, however, FCM showed aneuploidy in 2 of these 4 patients. Based on these results, FCM analysis combined with conventional cytopathology yielded 100% specificity, 94% sensitivity and 100% predictive value of positive result. There were no false-positive results but 2 false-negative results. These findings suggest that FCM is a rapid and useful technique in the analysis of pleural effusion and can be a very useful adjunct to conventional cytopathology.

A yeast artificial chromosome contig spanning the Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A duplication region

A contiguous set of 43 overlapping yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) clones has been developed for the Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A (CMT1A) duplication region of chromosome 17p11.2. The contig spans approximately 2.0 Mb and can be represented in a minimum of five overlapping YACs. The YAC clones were isolated from two total human genomic YAC libraries and from YAC libraries made from rodent-human hybrid cell lines. YAC clones were isolated from the libraries by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. Localization to chromosome 17p11.2 was confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Overlap between the YAC clones was detected by inter-Alu PCR amplification of the YACs and by cross hybridization of the YACs with YAC insert ends obtained by Vectorette PCR. This YAC contig is a useful resource for analyzing and mapping all the genes contained within the CMT1A duplication.

The peripheral myelin protein gene PMP-22 is contained within the Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A duplication

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT1) is the most common form of inherited peripheral neuropathy. Although the disease is genetically heterogeneous, it has been demonstrated that the gene defect is the most frequent type (CMT1A) is the result of a partial duplication of band 17p11.2. Recent studies suggested that the peripheral hypomyelination syndrome in the trembler (Tr) mouse, a possible animal model for CMT1 disease, is associated with a point mutation in the peripheral myelin protein-22 gene (pmp-22). Expression of pmp-22 is particularly high in Schwann cells, and the protein is found in peripheral myelin. We now report that the human PMP-22 gene is contained within the CMT1A duplication. We therefore, suggest that increased dosage of the PMP-22 gene may be the cause of CMT1A neuropathy.

Generation and fluorescent in situ hybridization mapping of yeast artificial chromosomes of 1p, 17p, 17q, and 19q from a hybrid cell line by high-density screening of an amplified library

A yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) library has been constructed from a somatic cell hybrid containing a t(1p;19q) chromosome and chromosome 17. After amplification, part of this library was analyzed by high-density colony filter screening with a repetitive human DNA probe (Alu). The human YACs distinguished by the screening were further analyzed by Alu fingerprinting and Alu PCR. Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) was performed to localize the YACs to subchromosomal regions of chromosome 1p, 17, or 19q. We have obtained a panel of 123 individual YACs with a mean size of 160 kb, and 77 of these were regionally localized by FISH: 33 to 1p, 10 to 17p, 25 to 17q, and 9 to 19q. The YACs cover a total of 19.7 Mb or 9% of the 220 Mb of human DNA contained in the hybrid. No overlapping YACs have yet been detected. These YACs are available upon request and should be helpful in mapping studies of disease loci, e.g., Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, Miller-Dieker syndrome, hereditary breast tumor, myotonic dystrophy, and malignant hyperthermia.

A preliminary study on the therapeutic effects of a calcium antagonist (diltiazem) on primary congestive cardiomyopathy. A clinical survey of 15 cases

The clinical effects of diltiazem in 15 patients with congestive cardiomyopathy were observed. Symptoms were controlled in 66% and cardiac enlargement improved in 73.3%. There was a decrease in cardiac silhouette on X-ray in 18.82 +/- 3.2% (p less than 0.01), with an increase of EF(%), CO, CI and a decrease of TPR on two-dimensional (2-D) echocardiogram (p less than 0.01). Prior to treatment, the cardiac status of 8 cases was grade III and 7 cases grade IV; after treatment 1 case was grade I, 8 grade II, 5 grade III and 1 grade IV. This improvement might be due to the blockade of calcium channels and the fact that diltiazem has the least negative inotropic effect among the calcium antagonists. The dosage, route of administration, and prevention of side effects are discussed.

An HRP study of the motoneurons supplying the rat hypobranchial muscles: central localization, peripheral axon course and soma size

The locations of motoneurons (MNs) supplying the rat hypobranchial muscles (lingual, geniohyoid, and infrahyoid) and the peripheral courses of axons of these MNs were investigated by using a method of HRP injection into the hypoglossal nerve or these muscles in combination with severing of the hypoglossal and/or cervical components of the plexus hypoglossocervicalis. Moreover, some sizes of the MNs were investigated in both transverse and horizontal sections. The hypobranchial MNs formed a sequence of cell columns extending caudally from the hypoglossal nucleus, via the supraspinal nucleus, to the medial and then the ventrolateral subnuclei of the ventral horn of C1 to C3. The lingual and geniohyoid MNs were located in the hypoglossal nucleus. The majority of their axons passed solely through the hypoglossal nerve, whereas a small number of axons, whose somata lay in the caudal hypoglossal nucleus, passed through the first cervical nerve and then through the ansa cervicalis to reach the hypoglossal nerve. The infrahyoid MNs were located in the supraspinal nucleus and the ventral horn, and their axons passed through the first to third cervical nerves. The hypobranchial MNs were divided into three groups according to their size: the lingual, the geniohyoid and thyrohyoid, and lastly the other infrahyoid MNs, in order of smaller to larger size. The sizes of lingual, geniohyoid, and thyrohyoid MNs displayed a unimodal distribution both in transverse and horizontal sections, whereas the other infrahyoid MNs showed a bimodal distribution.