Transcriptomic Analysis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Combined with Lower Extremity Atherosclerotic Occlusive Disease

Background

The pathological damage mechanism of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and macroangiopathy is extremely complex, and T2D and arteriosclerosis obliterans have different biological behaviors and clinical features. To explore the mechanism of lower extremity arteriosclerosis occlusion (LEAOD) in T2D patients, we utilized RNA-seq to identify unique gene expression signatures of T2D and LEAOD through transcriptomic analysis.

Methods

We obtained blood samples and performed RNA sequencing from four patients with T2D, five of whom had LEAOD. Another six age- and gender-matched blood samples from healthy volunteers were used for control. By exploring the general and specific differential expression analysis after transcriptome sequencing, specific gene expression patterns of T2D and LEAOD were verified.

Results

Transcriptome analysis found differentially expressed genes in T2D, and T2D + LEAOD (vs normal) separately, of which 35/486 (T2D/T2D + LEAOD) were up-regulated and 1290/2970 (T2D/T2D + LEAOD) were down-regulated. A strong overlap of 571 genes across T2D, LEAOD, and coexisting conditions was mainly involved in extracellular exosomes and the transcription process. By exploring the sex difference gene expression features between T2D, T2D + LEAOD, and healthy controls, we noticed that sex chromosome-associated genes do not participate in the sexual dimorphism gene expression profiles of T2D and LEAOD. Protein-Protein Interaction Network analysis and drug target prediction provided the drug candidates to treat T2D and LEAOD.

Conclusion

This study provides some evidence at the transcript level to uncover the association of T2D with LEAOD. The screened hub genes and predicted target drugs may be therapeutic targets.

Novel Multitarget ACE Inhibitory Peptides from Bovine Colostrum Immunoglobulin G: Cellular Transport, Efficacy in Regulating Endothelial Dysfunction, and Network Pharmacology Studies

In this study, we used traditional laboratory methods, bioinformatics, and cellular models to screen novel ACE inhibitory (ACEI) peptides with strong ACEI activity, moderate absorption rates, and multiple targets from bovine colostrum immunoglobulin G (IgG). The purified fraction of the compound proteinase hydrolysate of IgG showed good ACEI activity. After nano-UPLC-MS/MS identification and in silico analysis, eight peptides were synthesized and verified. Among them, SFYPDY, TSFYPDY, FSWF, WYQQVPGSGL, and GVHTFP were identified as ACEI peptides, as they exhibited strong ACEI activity (with IC50 values of 104.7, 80.0, 121.2, 39.8, and 86.3 μM, respectively). They displayed good stability in an in vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion assay. In a Caco-2 monolayer model, SFYPDY, FSWF, and WYQQVPGSGL exhibited better absorption rates and lower IC50 values than the other peptides and were thereby identified as novel ACEI peptides. Subsequently, in a H2O2-induced endothelial dysfunction (ED) model based on HUVECs, SFYPDY, FSWF, and WYQQVPGSGL regulated ED by reducing apoptosis and ROS accumulation while upregulating NOS3 mRNA expression. Network pharmacology analysis and RT-qPCR confirmed that they regulated multiple targets. Overall, our results suggest that SFYPDY, FSWF, and WYQQVPGSGL can serve as novel multitarget ACEI peptides.

Regulation of Hepatocellular Cholesterol Metabolism By Lactobacillus Paracasei BY2 and Its Embedding Delivery

In this study, five strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) with excellent cholesterol-lowering ability were screened from fermented foods. The gastrointestinal stress resistance, intestinal adhesion, and bacteriostasis abilities were evaluated to obtain the best LAB. And then, high-cholesterol HepG2 cell model was further prepared to explore the cholesterol-lowering mechanism of the LAB. Finally, pH-sensitive hydrogel prepared by Millettia speciosa Champ. carboxymethyl cellulose and Millettia speciosa Champ. cellulose was first applied to the microencapsulation of LAB. As a result, Lactobacillus paracasei BY2 (LP-BY2) exhibited higher cholesterol-lowering activity, intestinal adhesion, and bacteriostasis abilities compared with other LAB. Furthermore, it was found that LP-BY2 could reduce the cholesterol level by regulating the expression of key genes that involved in cholesterol synthesis (HMGCR and SREBP-2), uptake (LDLR), and outflow (LXR-α, ABCA1, ABCG5, ABCG8, and CYP7A1) in liver. At the same time, microencapsulation significantly enhanced the survival rate and cholesterol-lowering ability of LP-BY2 after gastrointestinal digestion. This study will provide an available reference for the application of Lactobacillus in prevention and treatment of hypercholesterolemia.

[Safety and efficacy of donor-derived chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy in patients with relapsed B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation]

Objective: To investigated the safety and efficacy of donor-derived CD19+ or sequential CD19+ CD22+ chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy in patients with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Methods: The data of 22 patients with B-ALL who relapsed after allo-HSCT and who underwent donor-derived CAR-T therapy at the Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University and the 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of the People's Liberation Army of China from September 2015 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS), and the secondary endpoints were event-free survival (EFS), complete remission (CR) rate, and Grade 3-4 adverse events. Results: A total of 81.82% (n=18) of the 22 patients achieved minimal residual disease-negative CR after CAR-T infusion. The median follow-up time was 1037 (95% CI 546-1509) days, and the median OS and EFS were 287 (95% CI 132-441) days and 212 (95% CI 120-303) days, respectively. The 6-month OS and EFS rates were 67.90% (95% CI 48.30%-84.50%) and 58.70% (95% CI 37.92%-79.48%), respectively, and the 1-year OS and EFS rates were 41.10% (95% CI 19.15%-63.05%) and 34.30% (95% CI 13.92%-54.68%), respectively. Grade 1-2 cytokine release syndrome occurred in 36.36% (n=8) of the patients, and grade 3-4 occurred in 13.64% of the patients (n=3). Grade 2 and 4 graft-versus-host disease occurred in two patients. Conclusion: Donor-derived CAR-T therapy is safe and effective in patients with relapsed B-ALL after allo-HSCT.

Millettia speciosa Champ cellulose-based hydrogel as a novel delivery system for Lactobacillus paracasei: Its relationship to structure, encapsulation and controlled release

We report for the first time the usage of Millettia speciosa Champ cellulose (MSCC) and carboxymethylcellulose (MSCCMC) for the fabrication of 3D-network hydrogel as delivery system for probiotics. The structural features, swelling behavior and pH-responsiveness of MSCC-MSCCMC hydrogels and their encapsulation and controlled-release behavior for Lactobacillus paracasei BY2 (L. paracasei BY2) were mainly studied. Structural analyses demonstrated that MSCC-MSCCMC hydrogels with porous and network structures were successfully synthesized through the crosslinking of -OH groups between MSCC and MSCCMC molecules. An increasing concentration of MSCCMC significantly improved the pH-responsiveness and swelling ability of the MSCC-MSCCMC hydrogel toward neutral solvent. Besides, the encapsulation efficiency (50.38-88.91 %) and release (42.88-92.86 %) of L. paracasei BY2 were positively correlated with the concentration of MSCCMC. The higher the encapsulation efficiency was, the higher the release in the target intestine. However, due to the existence of bile salts, controlled-release behavior decreased the survivor rate and physiological state (degrading cholesterol) of encapsulating L. paracasei BY2. Even so, the number of viable cells encapsulated by hydrogels still reached the minimum effective concentration in the target intestine. This study provides an available reference for the practical application of hydrogels fabricated from the cellulose of the Millettia speciosa Champ plant for probiotic delivery.

[Repeated stellate ganglion blockade for the treatment of ventricular tachycardia storm in patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy: a new therapeutic option for patients with malignant arrhythmias]

Objectives: This study sought to describe our institutional experience of repeated percutaneous stellate ganglion blockade (R-SGB) as a treatment option for drug-refractory electrical storm in patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM). Methods: This prospective observational study included 8 consecutive NICM patients who had drug-refractory electrical storm and underwent R-SGB between June 1, 2021 and January 31, 2022. Lidocaine (5 ml, 1%) was injected in the vicinity of the left stellate ganglion under the guidance of ultrasound, once per day for 7 days. Data including clinical characteristics, immediate and long-term outcomes, and procedure related complications were collected. Results: The mean age was (51.5±13.6) years. All patients were male. 5 patients were diagnosed as dilated cardiomyopathy, 2 patients as arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy and 1 patient as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The left ventricular ejection fraction was 37.8%±6.6%. After the treatment of R-SGB, 6 (75%) patients were free of electrical storm. 24 hours Holter monitoring showed significant reduction in ventricular tachycardia (VT) episodes from 43.0 (13.3, 276.3) to 1.0 (0.3, 34.0) on the first day following R-SGB (P<0.05) and 0.5 (0.0, 19.3) after whole R-SGB process (P<0.05). There were no procedure-related major complications. The mean follow-up was (4.8±1.1) months, and the median time of recurrent VT was 2 months. Conclusion: Minimally invasive R-SGB is a safe and effective method to treat electrical storm in patients with NICM.

Lewis Acid-Catalyzed Remote Site-Selective Ring Deconstruction of Cyclobuteno[a]naphthalene-4-ones to Access Unsymmetric 1,1-Diarylated Olefins

A catalytic site-selective ring deconstruction of cyclobuteno[a]naphthalene-4-ones with alcohols is reported, enabling the direct production of a wide range of unsymmetric 1,1-diarylated olefins with good yields and complete regioselectivity. The late-stage application of these resulting terminal olefins demonstrates great possibilities to apply this strategy to complex molecules. The protocol features good functional group compatibility, broad substrate scope, and controllable site selectivity.

Mitofusin-2 mediates cannabidiol-induced neuroprotection against cerebral ischemia in rats

Cannabidiol (CBD) reportedly exerts protective effects against many psychiatric disorders and neurodegenerative diseases, but the mechanisms are poorly understood. In this study, we explored the molecular mechanism of CBD against cerebral ischemia. HT-22 cells or primary cortical neurons were subjected to oxygen-glucose deprivation insult followed by reoxygenation (OGD/R). In both HT-22 cells and primary cortical neurons, CBD pretreatment (0.1, 0.3, 1 μM) dose-dependently attenuated OGD/R-induced cell death and mitochondrial dysfunction, ameliorated OGD/R-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and increased the mitofusin-2 (MFN2) protein level in HT-22 cells and primary cortical neurons. Knockdown of MFN2 abolished the protective effects of CBD. CBD pretreatment also suppressed OGD/R-induced binding of Parkin to MFN2 and subsequent ubiquitination of MFN2. Overexpression of Parkin blocked the effects of CBD in reducing MFN2 ubiquitination and reduced cell viability, whereas overexpressing MFN2 abolished Parkin's detrimental effects. In vivo experiments were conducted on male rats subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) insult, and administration of CBD (2.5, 5 mg · kg-1, i.p.) dose-dependently reduced the infarct volume and ER stress in the brains. Moreover, the level of MFN2 within the ischemic penumbra of rats was increased by CBD treatment, while the binding of Parkin to MFN2 and the ubiquitination of MFN2 was decreased. Finally, short hairpin RNA against MFN2 reversed CBD's protective effects. Together, these results demonstrate that CBD protects brain neurons against cerebral ischemia by reducing MFN2 degradation via disrupting Parkin's binding to MFN2, indicating that MFN2 is a potential target for the treatment of cerebral ischemia.

Complement activation mainly mediates the association of heart rate variability and cognitive impairment in adults with obstructive sleep apnea without dementia

STUDY OBJECTIVES

The relationship between autonomic nervous system dysfunction measured by heart rate variability (HRV) and cognitive impairment in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients is complex and still not well understood. We aimed to analyze the role of complement activation, Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarkers, and white matter hyperintensity (WMH) in modulating the association of HRV with cognitive performance.

METHODS

There were 199 subjects without dementia, including 42 healthy controls, 80 OSA patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and 77 OSA patients without cognitive impairment. All participants who completed polysomnography, cognition, WMH volume, and 5-min HRV analysis were recorded during wakefulness and sleep periods. Neuron-derived exosome and astrocyte-derived exosome proteins were measured by ELISA kits.

RESULTS

The OSA with MCI group were associated with a lower mean of standard deviations of R-R intervals for 5-min intervals (SDANN index) during wakefulness, standard deviation of the R-R interval (SDNN) during sleep stage and percentage of adjacent R-R intervals differing by more than 50 ms (PNN50) in each stage compared with OSA without MCI. The influence of HRV on cognition was partially mediated by complement activation (C5b-9 mediated a maximum of 51.21%), AD biomarkers, and WMH.

CONCLUSIONS

Lower SDANN index and PNN50 during wakefulness and SDNN and PNN50 during sleep periods were found in OSA patients with MCI, suggesting potential vulnerability to autonomic and parasympathetic dysfunction. Complement activation, AD biomarkers, and WMH might partially mediate and interact with the influence of HRV on cognitive impairment in OSA patients.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ChiCTR1900021544.

Development of Millettia speciosa champ polysaccharide conjugate stabilized oil-in-water emulsion for oral delivery of β-carotene: Protection effect and in vitro digestion fate

In this study, a natural antioxidant emulsifier, Millettia speciosa Champ polysaccharide conjugates (MSC-PC), was used for fabricating oil-in-water emulsion, and the influences of MSC-PC on β-carotene stability and bioaccessibility were studied. Results suggested that MSC-PC stabilized emulsion exhibited excellent resistance to a wide range of salt levels (0-500 mM of Na⁺), thermal treatments (50-90 °C) and pH values (3.0-11.0). MSC-PC also exhibited an outstanding inhibition capacity on lipid oxidation. Besides, MSC-PC stabilized emulsion had a better protective effect on β-carotene than other systems. Interestingly, in spite of similar lipolysis extent, β-carotene bioaccessibility in MSC-PC fabricated emulsion (14.75 %) was markedly higher than that in commercial Tween 80 fabricated emulsion (10.08 %), likely due to the steric-hindrance effect and antioxidant ability of MSC-PC, building interfacial layers that prevented β-carotene from degradation. This work supplied a deep insight into elucidating the mechanisms of emulsifying performance and β-carotene protection effect of MSC-PC fabricated emulsion.

Social sleepers: The effects of social status on sleep in terrestrial mammals

Social status among group-living mammals can impact access to resources, such as water, food, social support, and mating opportunities, and this differential access to resources can have fitness consequences. Here, we propose that an animal's social status impacts their access to sleep opportunities, as social status may predict when an animal sleeps, where they sleep, who they sleep with, and how well they sleep. Our review of terrestrial mammals examines how sleep architecture and intensity may be impacted by (1) sleeping conditions and (2) the social experience during wakefulness. Sleeping positions vary in thermoregulatory properties, protection from predators, and exposure to parasites. Thus, if dominant individuals have priority of access to sleeping positions, they may benefit from higher quality sleeping conditions and, in turn, better sleep. With respect to waking experiences, we discuss the impacts of stress on sleep, as it has been established that specific social statuses can be characterized by stress-related physiological profiles. While much research has focused on how dominance hierarchies impact access to resources like food and mating opportunities, differential access to sleep opportunities among mammals has been largely ignored despite its potential fitness consequences.

Treatment of Preschool Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Trial to Evaluate a Learning Style Profile Intervention Program in China

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether the provision of learning style profile (LSP) training improves development in preschool children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in China and to describe the characteristics of children who benefit from the intervention.

METHODS

Eighty-one children aged 36 to 72 months who were diagnosed with ASD for the first time were recruited for the intervention group. All of them received 24 weeks of LSP training, consisting of hospital- and home-based training. Twenty-one children with ASD of the same age in the control group had never received any intervention after diagnosis but underwent an assessment. Assessments were conducted at baseline and 24 weeks later. Differences in the developmental level and severity of ASD symptoms over time and between groups were analyzed by repeated standardized measures. Secondary analyses examined age effects among the 36- 48-, 48- 60-, and 60-72-month age groups.

RESULTS

Within-group comparison of the intervention group revealed significant treatment effects after the intervention, according to: language, social and adaptive developmental quotients (DQs) of the China Developmental Scale; total Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) score; and hyperactivity, peer problems, total difficulties, and prosocial behavior scores of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Similar gains were observed in gross and fine motor DQs of the China Developmental Scale and emotional symptoms and conduct problems scores of the SDQ; however, the differences between these pre- and postintervention scores did not reach statistical significance. Comparisons among the three age groups in the intervention groups demonstrated a significant age effect on adaptive DQs of the China Developmental Scale; total CARS score; hyperactivity, peer problems and total difficulties scores of the SDQ. Comparison between the intervention and control groups revealed significant treatment effects on language, social and adaptive DQs of the China Developmental Scale; total CARS score; and emotional symptoms, conduct problems, hyperactivity, peer problems, total difficulties, and prosocial behavior scores of the SDQ after the intervention. Similar gains were observed in gross and fine motor DQs of the China Developmental Scale, although differences between the two groups did not reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that LSP training can effectively improve social behavior and reduce the severity of ASD symptoms in children with ASD. Our data also highlight the importance of early intervention.

Roflupram protects against rotenone-induced neurotoxicity and facilitates α-synuclein degradation in Parkinson's disease models

We have previously shown that roflupram (ROF) protects against MPP+-induced neuronal damage in models of Parkinson's disease (PD). Since impaired degradation of α-synuclein (α-syn) is one of the key factors that lead to PD, here we investigated whether and how ROF affects the degradation of α-syn in rotenone (ROT)-induced PD models in vivo and in vitro. We showed that pretreatment with ROF (10 μM) significantly attenuated cell apoptosis and reduced the level of α-syn in ROT-treated SH-SY5Y cells. Furthermore, ROF significantly enhanced the lysosomal function, as evidenced by the increased levels of mature cathepsin D (CTSD) and lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP1) through increasing NAD+/NADH and the expression of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1). Pretreatment with an SIRT1 inhibitor selisistat (SELI, 10 μM) attenuated the neuroprotection of ROF, ROF-reduced expression of α-syn, and ROF-increased expression levels of LAMP1 and mature CTSD. Moreover, inhibition of CTSD by pepstatin A (20 μM) attenuated ROF-reduced expression of α-syn. In vivo study was conducted in mice exposed to ROT (10 mg·kg-1·d-1, i.g.) for 6 weeks; then, ROT-treated mice received ROF (0.5, 1, or 2 mg·kg-1·d-1; i.g.) for four weeks. ROF significantly ameliorated motor deficits, which was accompanied by increased expression levels of tyrosine hydroxylase, SIRT1, mature CTSD, and LAMP1, and a reduced level of α-syn in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Taken together, these results demonstrate that ROF exerts a neuroprotective action and reduces the α-syn level in PD models. The mechanisms underlying ROF neuroprotective effects appear to be associated with NAD+/SIRT1-dependent activation of lysosomal function.

Novel Antioxidative Wall Materials for Lactobacillus casei Microencapsulation via the Maillard Reaction between the Soy Protein Isolate and Prebiotic Oligosaccharides

In this study, three kinds of Maillard reaction products (MRPs) have been, for the first time, successfully prepared by conjugating soy protein isolate (SPI) with isomaltooligosaccharide, xylooligosaccharide, or galactooligosaccharide at 80 °C for 30 or 60 min and applied for the construction of Lactobacillus casei (L. casei) microcapsules. The results showed that MRPs exhibited enhanced antioxidative activities compared with their physically mixed counterparts. The digested MRPs displayed excellent resistance to pathogenic bacteria and promoted the growth of L. casei. Moreover, MRP-encapsulated L. casei showed a higher survival rate than free L. casei under tested adverse conditions including heat treatment, storage, and mechanical forces. Under simulated digestion conditions, the viability of L. casei decreased from 8.8 log cfu/mL to 1.6 log cfu/mL, while that of MRP-encapsulated L. casei was maintained at 7.4 log cfu/mL. Thus, MRP-based SPI-oligosaccharide conjugates exhibited great potential for microencapsulation of probiotics.

Multiarchitecture-Based Plasmonic-Coupled Emission Employing Gold Nanoparticles: An Efficient Fluorescence Modulation and Biosensing Platform

Surface plasmon-coupled emission (SPCE) is an efficient surface-enhanced fluorescence method based on the near-field coupling process of surface plasmons and fluorophores. Based on this, we developed multiple coupling structures for an SPCE system by introducing gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with different architectures by adjusting different modification methods and configurations. By assembling AuNPs on a gold substrate through electrostatic adsorption and spin-coating, 40- and 55-fold enhancements were obtained compared to free space (FS) emission, respectively. After theoretical simulations and the optimization of experimental conditions, a novel "hot-spot" plasmonic structure, an intense electromagnetic field within the system, plasmonic properties, and the coupled process were found to be mainly responsible for the diverse enhancement effects observed. For the spin-coating deposition method, new enhancing systems with high efficiency can be easily built without complex modification. Additionally, the subsequent detection system based on the uniform modification of AuNPs through electrostatic adsorption is convenient to establish with high sensitivity and stability, which can broaden the application of SPCE in both fluorescence-based sensing and imaging. This AuNP-enhanced SPCE using an electrostatic adsorption method was designed as an immunosensor to prove feasibility.

[Value of ATP synthase C subunit in predicting cardiac function and outcomes of sepsis]

Objective: To investigate the value of serum mitochondrial ATP synthase C subunit level in the evaluation of cardiac functional status and prognosis in patients with sepsis. Methods: A total of 165 sepsis patients admitted to the Emergency Intensive Care Unit (EICU) of the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2018 were included, there were 103 males (62.4%) and 62 females (37.6%) with an age of (63±14) years. Human ATP synthase lipid binding protein (ATP5G1) ELISA kit was used to detect the level of serum ATP synthase C subunit within 24 h after admission to EICU, and compared with that in 45 healthy subjects. Clinical data of patients were collected and divided into groups according to different left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and clinical outcomes. The differences in clinical indicators among each group were compared to evaluate the value of serum ATP synthase C subunit level in the evaluation of cardiac functional state and prognosis of patients with sepsis, and the independent risk factors for cardiac functional state and prognosis of patients with sepsis were analyzed. Results: Compared with the control group, the level of serum ATP synthase C subunit in the sepsis group was higher ((116±62) μg/L vs (77±34) μg/L, P<0.001). Compared with normal cardiac function group, the level of serum ATP synthase C subunit in septic cardiac dysfunction group was higher (P<0.001). Compared with the survival group, the level of serum ATP synthase C subunit in the death group was higher (P<0.05). The receiver operating curve (ROC) was drawn to analyze the value of ATP synthase C subunit, creatine kinase isoenzyme (CK-MB), B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), troponin I (cTnI), left atrial end diastolic diameter, left ventricular end systolic diameter, left ventricular end diastolic volume, left ventricular end systolic volume in evaluating the cardiac function in patients with sepsis, and the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.928, 0.661, 0.837, 0.814, 0.703, 0.831, 0.794 and 0.765, respectively. The cut-off value, sensitivity and specificity of ATP synthase C subunit in it was 139.44 ng/L, 100% and 75.2%, respectively. ROC was drawn to analyze the prognostic value of age, urea nitrogen (BUN), ATP synthase C subunit, APACHEⅡ score and SAPSⅡ score in patients with sepsis, and the AUC was 0.719, 0.772, 0.656, 0.868 and 0.884, respectively. The cut-off value, sensitivity and specificity of ATP synthase C subunit in it was 131.24 ng/L, 61.9% and 68.7%, respectively. Logistic regression analysis showed that age, BUN, ATP synthase C subunit, cardiac dysfunction, APACHEⅡ score and SAPS Ⅱ score were independent risk factors for the prognosis of patients with sepsis. Conclusion: The level of serum ATP synthase C subunit is closely related to cardiac dysfunction in patients with sepsis, and can effectively predict the prognosis of patients with sepsis.

Integrated transcriptomics and metabolites at different growth stages reveals the regulation mechanism of bolting and flowering of Angelica sinensis

The root of Angelica sinensis is one of the most widely used traditional Chinese medicines. In commercial planting, early bolting and flowering (EBF) of ca. 40% of 2-year-old plants reduces root yield and quality. Although changes in physiology in bolted plants have been investigated, the mechanism activating EBF has not been identified. Here, transcriptomics profiles at four different growth stages (S1 to S4) were performed, gene expression was validated by qRT-PCR and the accumulation of endogenous hormones quantified by HPLC. A total of 60,282 unigenes were generated, with 2,282, 1,359 and 2,246 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) observed at S2 versus S1, S3 versus S2 and S4 versus S3, respectively; 558 genes that co-exist in at least three stages from S1 to S4 were obtained. Functional annotation classified 38 DEGs linked to flowering pathways: photoperiodism, hormone signalling, carbohydrate metabolism and floral development. The levels of gene expression, hormones (GA₁ , GA₄ and IAA) and soluble sugars were consistent with the EBF. It can be concluded that the EBF of A. sinensis is controlled by multiple genes. This integrated analysis of transcriptomics, together with targeted hormones and soluble sugars, provides new insights into the regulation of EBF of A. sinensis.

Palladium/N,N'-Disulfonyl Bisimidazoline-Catalyzed Enantioselective Addition of Arylboronic Acids to Cyclic N-Sulfonyl Ketimines

The combination of Pd(TFA)₂ and an N,N'-disulfonyl bisimidazoline ligand shows high catalytic activity and excellent asymmetric induction in the addition of arylboronic acids to cyclic N-sulfonyl ketimines including benzo[d]isothiazole-1,1-dioxides, benzo[e][1,2,3]oxathiazine-2,2-dioxides, and 1,2,5-thiadiazole-1,1-dioxides, by which three types of chiral quaternary carbon-containing sultams with substantial substitution diversity were synthesized with high yields and excellent enantioselectivities (up to >99% ee). The current catalysis demonstrated a remarkable tolerance to oxygen and thus provided an operationally simple approach for constructing enantioenriched cyclic quaternary stereocenters.

Synthesis of polycyclic indoles via organocatalytic bicyclization of α-alkynylnaphthalen-2-ols with nitrones

A new organocatalytic bicyclization of α-alkynylnaphthalen-2-ols with nitrones was first reported, leading to the convergent synthesis of polycyclic indoles with substantial substitution diversity in generally good yields through scission of the N-O bond of nitrones via [3,3]-sigmatropic rearrangement. This transformation showcases the use of a quinine catalyst in a complicated cascade system that has been shown to effectively construct polycyclic heterocycles via alkyne difunctionalization.

Hybrid Fullerene-Based Electron Transport Layers Improving the Thermal Stability of Perovskite Solar Cells

The structure-dependent thermal stability of fullerene electron transport layers (ETLs) and its impact on device stability have been underrated for years. Based on cocrystallographic understanding, herein, we develop a thermally stable ETL comprising a hybrid layer of [6,6]-phenyl-C₆₁-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) and [6,6]-phenyl-C₆₁-propylbenzene (PCPB). By tuning the weight ratios of PCBM and PCPB to influence the noncovalent intermolecular interactions and packing of fullerene derivatives, we obtained a champion device based on the 20PCPB (20 wt % addition of PCPB into the mixture of PCBM/PCPB) ETL and excellent thermal stability of 500 h under 85 °C thermal aging in a N₂ atmosphere in the dark. The present work exemplifies that cocrystallography can be a precise tool to probe the interaction and aggregation of fullerene derivatives in ETLs, and mixed fullerene derivatives can be sought as promising ETLs to enhance the long-term stability of perovskite solar cells under high-temperature working environments.

Synthesis of Fully Substituted Pyrroles through a Copper-Catalyzed Aza-Michael/Claisen Rearrangement/Cyclization Cascade

We have developed a copper-catalyzed aza-Michael/Claisen rearrangement/cyclization cascade sequence that affords structurally diverse pentasubstituted pyrroles in acceptable to good yields (31–84%).

[Baicalin regulates STIM1-mediated calcium overload and reduces apoptosis of cardiomyocytes induced by lipopolysaccharide]

Objective: To investigate the protective effect of Baicalin on apoptosis induced by lipopolysaccharide in H9C2 cardiomyocytes and its possible mechanism. Methods: In order to establish apoptosis model of H9C2 cardiomyocytes, H9C2 cardiomyocytes were cultured and divided into four groups: the control group; the baicalin group was treated with baicalin at the final concentration of 10μmol/L for 12 hours; the LPS group was stimulated with LPS at the final concentration of 1 μg/ml for 6 hours; The LPS+baicalin group was stimulated with LPS at the final concentration of 1 μg/ml for 6 hours within treated with baicalin at the final concentration of 10μmol/L for 12 hours. Collecting cell samples, CCK-8 (The Cell Counting Kit-8) was used to detect cell activity, and Terminal-deoxynucleoitidyl Transferase Mediated Nick End Labeling (TUNEL) was used to detect the expression levels of apoptosis. Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopy was used to detect the expression levels of store-operated calcium entry in H9C2 cardiomyocytes. Western blot was used to detect the protein expression levels of STIM1, cleaved-caspase3, Bax and Bcl-2. Fluorogenic quantitative PCR was used to detect the mRNA expression level of STIM1. Results: Compared with the control group, LPS-induced H9C2 cardiomyocyte survival rate decreased (P<0.05), the expression level of apoptosis increased (P<0.05), the internal flow of calcium increased (P<0.05), the expression levels of cleaved-caspase3, Bax protein levels increased (P<0.05), Bcl-2 protein level decreased (P<0.05), the expression of STIM1 mRNA and protein level increased (P<0.05). Compared with LPS group, the survival rate of H9C2 cardiomyocytes in baicalin intervention group increased (P<0.05), the expression level of apoptosis decreased (P<0.05), the internal flow of calcium decreased (P<0.05), the expression levels of cleaved-caspase3, Bax protein decreased (P<0.05), and the level of Bcl-2 protein increased (P<0.05), the expression of STIM1 mRNA and protein level decreased (P<0.05). Conclusion: Baicalin may alleviate LPS-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis by alleviating calcium overload, and improve cell survival.

[Clinical analysis of 22 cases of syndrome caused by acute poisoning]

Objective: To analyze the clinical characteristics, treatment and prognosis of rhabdomyolysis (RM) caused by acute poisoning.Summarize the clinical characteristics and treatment experience, pay attention to the complications and improve the quality of rescue. Methods: We collecte and summarize the clinical data, treatment and prognosis of 22 cases of RM caused by acute poisoning. Results: We found that 21 patients (95.5%) had muscle damage, 13(59.1%) with coma, 8(36.4%) with brown, tea or even soy sauce urine, 6(27.3%) had acute renal injury (AKI), and 4(18.2%) had multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). After the treatment, 21 cases (95.5%) got better, and one case were discharged. All the patients with AKI were survived, three of them were treated by hemodialysis, and the other recovered gradually after massive fluid replacement. Conclusion: Acute poisoning combined with RM is not uncommon in clinic. We should pay attention to examination of serum enzymes and other indicators, observe the clinical symptoms and make early diagnosis. The key to diagnosis and treatment is early fluid resuscitation, comprehensive treatment, blood purification and maintain the stability of water and electrolyte.

Asymmetric [3+2] Cycloaddition of Olefins with Morita–Baylis–Hillman Carbonates Catalyzed by BINOL-Based Bifunctional Phosphine

We have developed a series of novel BINOL-based phosphines. These bifunctional organocatalysts can be used in the [3+2] cycloaddition of electron-deficient olefins and Morita–Baylis–Hillman (MBH) carbonates. Moderate to excellent yields (up to >99%) and good to excellent enantioselectivities (up to 95% ee) can be obtained in the cycloaddition reaction of maleimides and MBH carbonates. The application of these novel phosphines can be further extended to the asymmetric synthesis of chiral spirooxindoles (up to 85% ee). The results in this study indicate that the BINOL moiety plays an important role in stereocontrol.

[Comparison of different scoring systems in prognosis evaluation of acute poisoning]

Objective: To compare the predictive value of PSS, APACHEII, SAPSII and SOFA in the prognosis evaluation of acute poisoning. Methods: Clinical data (including PSS score, APACHEII score, SAPSII score and SOFA score, within 24 hours after admission) of 231 acute poisoning patients admitted to the emergency intensive care unit EICU of our hospital from January 2015 to October 2016 was retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into the survival group and the dead group according to the 28-day clinical outcomes, comparing the differences of clinical data in each group. To analyze the correlation between PSS score, APACHEII score, SAPSII score and SOFA score in each group, comparing the value and the area under the ROC curve of four scoring systems and evaluate the predictive value of the four scoring systems. Results: Comparing with the survival group and the dead group, PSS score, APACHEII score, SAPSII score and SOFA score were significantly different (P<0.01) . PSS score, APACHEII score, SAPSII score and SOFA score were significantly positive correlation (P<0.01) , the area under the ROC curve (AUC) of the four scoring systems were 0.833, 0.887, 0.843 and 0.843 respectively. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of APACHEII score was higher than PSS score, SAPSII score and SOFA score, the difference was statistically significant (z=2.351, 2.317, 2.217; P=0.019, 0.021, 0.027) , there was no significant difference in the area (AUC) between the three scoring curves (P>0.05) . The cutoff value (cut-off) , sensitivity, specificity and accuracy rates of PSS score, APACHEII score, SAPSII score and SOFA score were (2.5, 93.1%, 50.9%, 61.5%) , (14.5, 82.8%, 75.7%, 77.48%) , (31.5, 77.6%, 76.90%, 77.08%) , (5.5, 77.60%, 74.60%, 75.35%) . Conclusion: PSS score, APACHEII score, SAPSII score and SOFA score can evaluate the prognosis of patients with acute poisoning, but the APACHEII score is better than the other three scoring systems in evaluating the prognosis for its evaluation ability and accuracy rate.

N-Sulfonyl Bisimidazoline Ligands and Their Applications in Pd(II)-Catalyzed Asymmetric Addition toward α-Tertiary Amines

A new class of chiral N-sulfonyl bisimidazoline (Bim) ligands have been designed, prepared, and applied in Pd(II)-catalyzed asymmetric addition of arylboronic acids to isatin-derived N-Boc ketimines. The combination of Pd(OCOCF₃)₂ and N-tosyl Bim ligand shows high catalytic activity and excellent asymmetric induction, enabling asymmetric addition to offer α-tertiary amines with generally good to high yields and excellent enantioselectivity (up to 96% yield, 96% ee). This asymmetric Pd(II) catalysis can tolerate air conditions, providing a practical and operationally simple protocol toward the construction of an enantioenriched α-tertiary stereocenter.

[Analyses on relevant factors of the prognosis of elderly patients with acute poisoning]

Objective: To explore the risk factors influencing the prognosis of elderly patients with acute poisoning. Methods: We retrospected 177 elderly patients with Acute Poisoning who were treated in the emergency department of the first affiliated hospital of wenzhou medical university from July 2009 to May 2015. According to the outcome of patients, we distributed the patients to death group (31 cases) and survival group (146 cases) , compared the clinic data and using multivariate analysis with Logistic regression to prognosis factors. Results: There were 177 cases in total, with 146 survivors (82.5%) and 31 deaths (17.5%) . In which 102 cases (57.6%) had chronic underlying diseases. There were 28 cases of pesticide poisoning in the death group, and the fatality rate of pesticide poisoning was 23.5%. The mortality rate was 12.8% in the 60-69 years-old group (11/86) , 20% (13/65) in the 70-79 years-old group, 26.9% (7/26) in the 80-89 years-old group. The most common reason of poisoning was intentional ingestion, with 100 cases (56.5%) . The tract of the poisoning was mainly in digestive system, including 148 cases (83.6%) . The PSS score and APACHE-II score were 2.97±0.18 and 19.8±2.8 in the death group, 2.27±0.81 and 12.8±5.3 in the survival group. Compared with the survival group, poison (pesticides or non) 、poisoning route、cause of poisoning、PSS score、APACHEⅡ score have significant difference in death group (P<0.05) . Poison (pesticides or non) 、PSS score、APACHEⅡ, were the independent risk factors of poor prognosis. Conclusion: Most of the elderly patients with acute poisoning have one or more chronic underlying diseases, the digestive tract ingestion and pesticide poisoning are more common. The fatality rate of the old patients is significantly higher than that of non elderly poisoning. Type of toxications, PSS score and APACHE-II score are the prognostic factors in elderly patients.

[Effects of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in combination with infusion of endothelial progenitor cells on bone marrow inflammatory injury]

目的

探索异基因造血干细胞移植联合内皮祖细胞（EPC）输注对骨髓炎性损伤的影响。

方法

6~8周龄BALB/c（H-2K^d）小鼠经致死剂量全身照射（TBI）预处理后建立异基因骨髓移植模型（BMT组），并在BMT基础上同时输注体外培养的EPC，建立骨髓联合EPC移植模型（EPC组）。移植后第7、14、21、28天分别获取各组小鼠骨髓细胞，流式细胞术检测EPC培养比率及两组嵌合率变化，通过骨髓细胞和外周血细胞计数比较两组骨髓造血情况，Western blot法检测骨髓巨噬细胞表面特异性标志CD68表达水平；实时定量PCR及Western blot法分析骨髓炎性复合体nlrp1、nlrp6、caspase-1 mRNA及蛋白表达水平。

结果

移植后第7天BMT组嵌合率为（83.69±1.26）%，明显低于EPC组的（91.65±2.77）%（P<0.05）。在移植后第10、15、20天，EPC组小鼠外周血中的WBC、网织红细胞、PLT均高于BMT组（P值均<0.05），在第7、21天EPC组骨髓中原始红细胞较BMT组高（P值均<0.05）。HE染色显示，移植后第7、14、21天，EPC组骨髓微环境恢复较BMT组快。Western blot检测显示EPC组骨髓CD68蛋白表达水平较BMT组低。EPC组nlrp1、nlrp6、casepase-1 mRNA及蛋白表达水平在移植后各时间点接近正常表达水平，与BMT组相比，差异均有统计学意义（P值均<0.05）。

结论

异基因造血干细胞移植联合输注EPC可减少炎性细胞的浸润及减少炎性复合体的活化，促进骨髓造血重建。

[The effects of P - glycoprotein expression induced by ulinastatin on HK - 2 cells damage induced by paraquat]

Objective: To investigate the protective effect of P-glycoprotein up-regulated by ulinastatin (UTI) on HK-2 cells during paraquat (PQ) -induced injury and its underlying mechanisms. Methods: The re- search was divided into two parts. The first part of the research was divided into normal control group, PQ group, UTI+PQ group, UTI control group. The second part of the research was divided into negative virus group (including control group, PQ group, PQU+TI group, UTI group) and P-gp siRNA group (including control group, PQ group, PQU+TI group, UTI group) . Negative virus group: the cells were transfected into the blank virus; siRNA P-gp group: the cells were transfected with P-gp siRNA virus. HK-2 cells were routinely cultured. After 800 μmol/L PQ treatment, the changes of P-gp protein levels in the HK-2 cells were determined by West-ern-blot (WB) . Then, transfected lentivirus bringing P-gp silent gene, the cell viability was determined by CCK-8 assay, the expression of P-gp in the cells after transfection was detected by WB and the concentration of PQ in HK-2 cells were measured by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) . Results: Compared with the normal control group, the P-gp expression of PQ group had no significantly changes (P>0.05) . Compared with the PQ group, the P-gp expression of UTI+PQ group significantly increased (P>0.05) . Compared with the corre-sponding control siRNA group, the P-gp siRNA group had no significantly changes in cell viability (P>0.05) . and significantly decreased in P-gp expression. Compared with the corresponding control siRNA group, the P-gp siRNA group had no significantly changes in PQ concentration in HK-2 cell (P>0.05) , but compared with P-gp siRNA PQ group, the PQ concentration of P-gp siRNA PQ+UTI group significantly decrease (P<0.05) . Conclusion: UTI significantly reduced the accumulation of PQ in HK-2 cells and increased the viability of HK-2 cells in vitro may be not by increased P-gp activity. UTI could significantly reduce HK-2 cell injury induced by PQ in vitro and improve the survival rate of HK-2 cells. It may not be related to the up regulation of P-gp expres-sion.

DNA barcoding and phylogenetic relationships of Ardeidae (Aves: Ciconiiformes)

The avian family Ardeidae comprises long-legged freshwater and coastal birds. There has been considerable disagreement concerning the intrafamilial relationships of Ardeidae. Mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) was used as a marker for the identification and phylogenetic analysis of avian species. In the present study, we analyzed the COI barcodes of 32 species from 17 genera belonging to the family Ardeidae. Each bird species possessed a barcode distinct from that of other bird species except for Egretta thula and E. garzetta, which shared one barcoding sequence. Kimura two-parameter distances were calculated between barcodes. The average genetic distance between species was 34-fold higher than the average genetic distance within species. Neighbor-joining and maximum likelihood methods were used to construct phylogenetic trees. Most species could be discriminated by their distinct clades in the phylogenetic tree. Both methods of phylogenetic reconstruction suggested that Zebrilus, Tigrisoma, and Cochlearius were an offshoot of the primitive herons. COI gene analysis suggested that the other herons could be divided into two clades: Botaurinae and Ardeinae. Our results support the Great Egret and Intermediate Egret being in separate genera, Casmerodius and Mesophoyx, respectively.

Effect of overexpression of PTEN on apoptosis of liver cancer cells

Liver cancer is a common malignant tumor associated with a short-survival period and high-mortality rate, and its prevalence in China is particularly high. This study aimed to investigate the effect of overexpressing the phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) gene on liver cancer cell apoptosis and provide new insight into the treatment of this disease. The experimental design included four treatment groups, consisting of HHCC and H22 cells transfected with PTEN recombinant plasmids (HHCC+PTEN, H22+PTEN), and those transfected with control plasmids (HHCC+NC, H22+NC). The expression of PTEN mRNA was determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and protein levels were examined by western blot. Cell apoptosis was measured using flow cytometry and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick-end labeling. PTEN mRNA expression in cells transfected with pcDNA3.1-PTEN was significantly increased compared to the control groups (P < 0.05). In addition, western blotting revealed PTEN protein expression in the treatment groups to be significantly elevated in comparison to control cells (P < 0.05). Flow cytometry showed that apoptosis rates of both HHCC+PTEN (approximately 21.9%) and H22+PTEN (approximately 41.0%) cells were significantly higher than those of the control groups (P < 0.05). Moreover, the difference in apoptosis rate between experimental and control groups was significant (P < 0.05). In this study, HHCC and H22 cells were successfully transfected with pcDNA3.1-PTEN in vitro. We conclude that overexpression of PTEN can effectively inhibit proliferation of these cells and promote their apoptosis.

Polymorphic microsatellite markers in the traditional Chinese medicinal plant Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis

Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis is a traditional Chinese medicinal plant and is listed as vulnerable by the IUCN. This medicinal herb is well known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, most notably as an ingredient of the hemostatic compound "Yunnan Baiyao". However, over-exploitation of the plant for economic purposes is pushing the species to the brink of extinction. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop conservation strategies for this endangered species, for example, through assessment of its genetic structure and diversity. Here, we developed ten novel polymorphic microsatellite loci. The characteristics of these markers were assessed in 60 individuals from South China. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 4 to 12, Observed and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.303 to 0.969 and from 0.790 to 0.976, respectively. These markers will therefore be useful tools for future population genetic studies and for the conservation of genetic resources of P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis.

Single-photon property characterization of 1.3 μm emissions from InAs/GaAs quantum dots using silicon avalanche photodiodes

We developed a new approach to test the single-photon emissions of semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) in the optical communication band. A diamond-anvil cell pressure device was used for blue-shifting the 1.3 μm emissions of InAs/GaAs QDs to 0.9 μm for detection by silicon avalanche photodiodes. The obtained g⁽²⁾(0) values from the second-order autocorrelation function measurements of several QD emissions at 6.58 GPa were less than 0.3, indicating that this approach provides a convenient and efficient method of characterizing 1.3 μm single-photon source based on semiconductor materials.

Development of three vitrification-based cryopreservation procedures for shoot tips of China's potato

China is now the largest potato producing country worldwide. The establishment of efficient conservation techniques for potato germplasm is a prerequisite for breeding of elite cultivars. Potato viral diseases have been a great threat for sustainable potato production in China. Use of virus-free seed tubers is an effective and practical means to control viral diseases. In the present study, three vitrification-based cryopreservation techniques, i.e. droplet-vitrification, encapsulation-vitrification and vitrification were successfully developed for the first time for China's potato. Cultivar 'Zihuabai' was used to optimize key parameters involved in the three vitrification-based procedures. With the optimized parameters, shoot regrowth percentages of 71%, 76% and 43% were obtained for droplet-vitrification, encapsulation-vitrification and vitrification, respectively. The three protocols developed were further tested with eight China's major cultivars, with average shoot regrowth of 61%, 38% and 28% for droplet-vitrification, encapsulation-vitrification and vitrification, respectively. Successful development of the three cryopreservation procedures using a single cultivar will facilitate a number of comparative studies such as cryo-injury, regrowth pattern, genetic stability and efficiency of virus elimination. Testing these three cryogenic procedures for potato major cultivars representing a wide range of genetic background, will help the establishment of potato cryobanking in China and the production of virus-free plants.

Field-field and photon-photon correlations of light scattered by two remote two-level InAs quantum dots on the same substrate

We report the measurement of field-field and photon-photon correlations of light scattered by two InAs quantum dots separated by ≈40  μm. Near 4 K a large fraction of photons can be scattered coherently by each quantum dot leading to one-photon interference at a beam splitter (visibility ≈20%). Simultaneously, two-photon interference is also observed (visibility ≈40%) due to the indistinguishability of photons scattered by the two different quantum emitters. We show how spectral diffusion accounts for the reduction in interference visibility through variations in photon flux.

Molecular analysis of two Chinese pear (Pyrus bretschneideri Rehd.) spontaneous self-compatible mutants, Yan Zhuang and Jin Zhui

Yan Zhuang and Jin Zhui are spontaneous bud mutants of Chinese pear (Pyrus bretschneideri Rehd.) from Ya Li. Both fruit set rate and seed number after self-pollination, together with pollen tube growth, prove that Yan Zhuang and Jin Zhui are self-compatible. The fruit set rate and seed number after cross-pollination suggest that the self-compatibility of Yan Zhuang and Jin Zhui may be due to natural mutations of the stylar S allele and pollen S allele, respectively. PCR amplification of the S-RNase gene in self-pollinated progeny of Yan Zhuang and Jin Zhui show that they contain point mutations in the stylar S(21) allele and pollen S(34) allele, respectively. The cDNA sequence of the Yan Zhuang stylar S-RNase gene revealed that the 182nd nucleotide of the S(21)-RNase (cDNA) sequence had been substituted resulting in a Gly to Val mutation, and this might affect the stability of the S-RNase. In addition, Western blotting showed that one Yan Zhuang stylar S-RNase was absent and the expression level of another S-RNase protein was decreased compared to Ya Li. Therefore, we suggest that the self-compatibility of Yan Zhuang is caused by a point mutation in an S(21)-RNase nucleotide.

Occurrence of Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus on Cucurbitaceous Plants in China

Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV) was first discovered in 2003 in China (2) and developed an epidemic during 2005 (1). To know the occurrence scale and damage level of CGMMV, a survey was carried out in the main areas of cucurbitaceous plant production and seed trading in 2006 and 2007 in Mainland China. Samples of 739 plants of 16 types (seed samples from Cucurbita moschata, Cucumis melo, Lagenaria siceraria, Cucumis sativus, Momordica charantia, L. siceraria var. clavata, and C. pepo, leaf samples from C. moschata, Cucumis melo, L. siceraria, Cucumis sativus, and M. charantia, fruit samples from C. moschata, Citrullus lanatus, and L. siceraria, and seedling samples from Citrullus lanatus) were collected from 13 regions and analyzed by a double antibody sandwich (DAS)-ELISA. CGMMV was detected in Citrullus lanatus, L. siceraria, Cucumis melo, and C. moschata from six regions in 2006. Citrullus vulgaris, Cucumis melo, and C. moschata were infected most frequently; in 76, 60, and 30 of the leaf samples, respectively. CGMMV was tested positive in the samples of 8 seedlings, 23 seeds, and 1 fruit. In contrast, all samples tested negative in 2007. To confirm CGMMV identification, ELISA-positive samples were detected by reverse transcription-PCR assay using virus-specific primers that amplified a 524-bp fragment in the coat protein coding region. The nucleotide sequence of the PCR product (GenBank Accession No. DQ997778) isolated form L. siceraria in Liaoning Province (LHP) showed 100% identity with the Japanese watermelon strain (Japan W) and 91% identity with the Greece GR5 strain. On the basis of the symptoms of indicator plants (chlorotic spot and systemic mosaic were observed in L. siceraria, Chenopodium amaranticolor, and Cucumis sativus; no infection was observed in Datura stramonium, Nicotiana tabacum, and Chenopodium quinoa) and coat protein nucleotide sequence comparisons, the two CGMMV isolates of Wcn (1) and LHP from China should be grouped into the watermelon strain. The results showed that the government should establish effective quarantine strategy and the growers take proper planting measures to avoid further spreading of this virus. References: (1) H. Y. Chen et al. Acta Phytopathol. Sin. 36:306, 2006. (2) B. X. Qin et al. Plant Quarantine. 19:4, 2005.

Melatonin ameliorates hippocampal nitric oxide production and large conductance calcium-activated potassium channel activity in chronic intermittent hypoxia

Melatonin protects against hippocampal injury induced by intermittent hypoxia (IH). IH-induced oxidative stress is associated with decreases in constitutive production of nitric oxide (NO) and in the activity of large conductance calcium-activated potassium (BK) channels in hippocampal neurons. We tested the hypothesis that administration of melatonin alleviates the NO deficit and impaired BK channel activity in the hippocampus of IH rats. Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with melatonin (10 mg/kg, i.p.) or vehicle before daily IH exposure for 8 hr for 7 days. The NO and intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) levels in the CA1 region of hippocampal slices were measured by electrochemical microsenor and spectrofluorometry, respectively. The activity of BK channels was recorded by patch-clamping electrophysiology in dissociated CA1 neurons. Malondialdehyde levels were increased in the hippocampus of hypoxic rats and were lowered by the melatonin treatment. Levels of NO under resting and hypoxic conditions, and the protein expression of neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) were significantly reduced in the CA1 neurons of hypoxic animals compared with the normoxic controls. These deficits were mitigated in the melatonin-treated hypoxic rats with an improved [Ca2+]i response to acute hypoxia. The open probability of BK channels was decreased in the hypoxic rats and was partially restored in the melatonin-treated animals, without alterations in the expression of channel subunits and unitary conductance. Acute treatment of melatonin had no significant effects on the BK channel activity or on the [Ca2+]i response to hypoxia. Collectively, these results suggest that melatonin ameliorates the constitutive NO production and BK channel activity via an antioxidant mechanism against an IH-induced down-regulation of nNOS expression in hippocampal neurons.

Radiobiological investigations of soft X-rays near carbon, nitrogen, oxygen K-shell edges on Aspergillus oryzae spores

Soft X-rays at carbon, nitrogen, oxygen K-shell edges have special radiobiological effects. Using Aspergillus oryzae spores as sample, the radiation effects of soft X-rays near the K-shell edges of C, N and O elements from synchrotron radiation were investigated. Also the dose depositions of different X-ray energies in spore were discussed. At the same time, the spores were irradiated by gamma rays from 60Co and relative biological effects were compared with those produced by soft X-rays. The results showed that soft X-rays near K-shell edges of O element had higher ability of radiation damage than that of X-rays near K-shell edges of C and N elements as compared with one another. But they all had higher killing abilities per unit dose than that of gamma rays from 60Co. The relative biological effects (RBEs), the comparison of dose to gamma rays at 10% survival level, of the three soft X-rays were 1.65, 1.73 and 1.91, respectively.