Research on the phase error of a Sagnac interferometer induced by modulation of a multifunctional integrated optical modulator

High-precision IFOG requires an optical sensitivity of up to 10-8 rads-1 for interferometers; noise and error are two of the main reasons limiting its accuracy improvement. Any potential source of the signal error is worth being studied. This article introduces work on the modulation signal error caused by the mechanical vibration energy loss of MIOC crystals. This article theoretically derives and simulates the frequency spectrum of an energy loss from the perspective of electromechanical coupling and verifies it through experiments. This article also verifies the influence of MIOC mechanical loss on the output of a Sagnac interferometer through experiments. This study is an indispensable part of the bottleneck for improving the accuracy of ultrahigh-precision closed-loop IFOG and has potential engineering application value.

[Impact of different diagnostic criteria for assessing mild micro-hepatic encephalopathy in liver cirrhosis: an analysis based on a prospective, multicenter, real-world study]

Objective: To compare the differences in the prevalence of mild micro-hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) among patients with cirrhosis by using the psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score (PHES) and the Stroop smartphone application (Encephal App) test. Methods: This prospective, multi-center, real-world study was initiated by the National Clinical Medical Research Center for Infectious Diseases and the Portal Hypertension Alliance and registered with International ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05140837). 354 cases of cirrhosis were enrolled in 19 hospitals across the country. PHES (including digital connection tests A and B, digital symbol tests, trajectory drawing tests, and serial management tests) and the Stroop test were conducted in all of them. PHES was differentiated using standard diagnostic criteria established by the two studies in China and South Korea. The Stroop test was evaluated based on the criteria of the research and development team. The impact of different diagnostic standards or methods on the incidence of MHE in patients with cirrhosis was analyzed. Data between groups were differentiated using the t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, and χ (2) test. A kappa test was used to compare the consistency between groups. Results: After PHES, the prevalence of MHE among 354 cases of cirrhosis was 78.53% and 15.25%, respectively, based on Chinese research standards and Korean research normal value standards. However, the prevalence of MHE was 56.78% based on the Stroop test, and the differences in pairwise comparisons among the three groups were statistically significant (kappa = -0.064, P < 0.001). Stratified analysis revealed that the MHE prevalence in three groups of patients with Child-Pugh classes A, B, and C was 74.14%, 83.33%, and 88.24%, respectively, according to the normal value standards of Chinese researchers, while the MHE prevalence rates in three groups of patients with Child-Pugh classes A, B, and C were 8.29%, 23.53%, and 38.24%, respectively, according to the normal value standards of Korean researchers. Furthermore, the prevalence rates of MHE in the three groups of patients with Child-Pugh grades A, B, and C were 52.68%, 58.82%, and 73.53%, respectively, according to the Stroop test standard. However, among the results of each diagnostic standard, the prevalence of MHE showed an increasing trend with an increasing Child-Pugh grade. Further comparison demonstrated that the scores obtained by the number connection test A and the number symbol test were consistent according to the normal value standards of the two studies in China and South Korea (Z = -0.982, -1.702; P = 0.326, 0.089), while the other three sub-tests had significant differences (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The prevalence rate of MHE in the cirrhotic population is high, but the prevalence of MHE obtained by using different diagnostic criteria or methods varies greatly. Therefore, in line with the current changes in demographics and disease spectrum, it is necessary to enroll a larger sample size of a healthy population as a control. Moreover, the establishment of more reliable diagnostic scoring criteria will serve as a basis for obtaining accurate MHE incidence and formulating diagnosis and treatment strategies in cirrhotic populations.

[Comparison of air filled anterior approach of sternocleidomastoid muscle and space of sternocleidomastoid muscle for treatment of thyroid papillary carcinoma under axillary endoscope]

Objective: To evaluate the application of the anterior sternocleidomastoid muscle approach in transaxillary endoscopic thyroidectomy. Methods: The clinical data of 180 patients undergoing transaxillary endoscopic thyroidectomy for thyroid cancer in the Department of General Surgery of the Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University from March 2021 to March 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 27 males and 153 females, aged (37.5±8.0)years, range: 27 to 52 years. The anterior approach of sternocleidomastoid muscle was used in 100 cases, and the interspace approach of sternocleidomastoid muscle was used in 80 cases between the two groups. The postoperative efficacy, complications and satisfaction of the two groups were compared. Results: There was no difference between the two groups in the number of lymph node dissection (using nano carbon tracer), hospital stay, and postoperative complications (transient decrease in parathyroid function, laryngeal nerve injury) (P>0.05). The anterior approach of sternocleidomastoid muscle had shorter cavity building time[(17.8±2.9)vs(20.1±3.7) min], less drainage volume the second day after operation[(18.7±5.2)vs(23.5±6.3) ml], and less discomfort in the neck (P<0.05). Conclusion: The anterior approach of sternocleidomastoid muscle under complete transaxillary endoscopy has certain advantages in the time of cavity construction, the drainage volume the second day after the operation, and the reduction of cervical discomfort after the operation. The operation is safe and reliable.

Effect of Avian Influenza Virus subtype H9N2 on the expression of complement-associated genes in chicken erythrocytes

The H9N2 subtype avian influenza virus can infect both chickens and humans. Previous studies have reported a role for erythrocytes in immunity. However, the role of H9N2 against chicken erythrocytes and the presence of complement-related genes in erythrocytes has not been studied. This research investigated the effect of H9N2 on complement-associated gene expression in chicken erythrocytes. The expression of complement-associated genes (C1s, C1q, C2, C3, C3ar1, C4, C4a, C5, C5ar1, C7, CD93 and CFD) was detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Quantitative Real-Time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to analyse the differential expression of complement-associated genes in chicken erythrocytes at 0 h, 2 h, 6 h and 10 h after the interaction between H9N2 virus and chicken erythrocytes in vitro and 3, 7 and 14 d after H9N2 virus nasal infection of chicks. Expression levels of C1q, C4, C1s, C2, C3, C5, C7 and CD93 were significantly up-regulated at 2 h and significantly down-regulated at 10 h. Gene expression levels of C1q, C3ar1, C4a, CFD and C5ar1 were seen to be different at each time point. The expression levels of C1q, C4, C1s, C2, C3, C5, C7, CFD, C3ar1, C4a and C5ar1 were significantly up-regulated at 7 d and the gene expression of levels of C3, CD93 and C5ar1 were seen to be different at each time point. The results confirmed that all the complement-associated genes were expressed in chicken erythrocytes and showed the H9N2 virus interaction with chicken erythrocytes and subsequent regulation of chicken erythrocyte complement-associated genes expression. This study reported, for the first time, the relationship between H9N2 and complement system of chicken erythrocytes, which will provide a foundation for further research into the prevention and control of H9N2 infection.

The complex genome and adaptive evolution of polyploid Chinese pepper (Zanthoxylum armatum and Zanthoxylum bungeanum)

Zanthoxylum armatum and Zanthoxylum bungeanum, known as 'Chinese pepper', are distinguished by their extraordinary complex genomes, phenotypic innovation of adaptive evolution and species-special metabolites. Here, we report reference-grade genomes of Z. armatum and Z. bungeanum. Using high coverage sequence data and comprehensive assembly strategies, we derived 66 pseudochromosomes comprising 33 homologous phased groups of two subgenomes, including autotetraploid Z. armatum. The genomic rearrangements and two whole-genome duplications created large (~4.5 Gb) complex genomes with a high ratio of repetitive sequences (>82%) and high chromosome number (2n = 4x = 132). Further analysis of the high-quality genomes shed lights on the genomic basis of involutional reproduction, allomones biosynthesis and adaptive evolution in Chinese pepper, revealing a high consistent relationship between genomic evolution, environmental factors and phenotypic innovation. Our study provides genomic resources and new insights for investigating diversification and phenotypic innovation in Chinese pepper, with broader implications for the protection of plants under severe environmental changes.

Comparative Transcriptome and Metabolome Analysis of Resistant and Susceptible Piper Species Upon Infection by the Oomycete Phytophthora Capsici

Phytophthora capsici is a destructive oomycete pathogen that causes devastating disease in black pepper, resulting in a significant decline in yield and economic losses. Piper nigrum (black pepper) is documented as susceptible to P. capsici, whereas its close relative Piper flaviflorum is known to be resistant. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the resistance of P. flaviflorum remains obscure. In this study, we conducted a comparative transcriptome and metabolome analysis between P. flaviflorum and P. nigrum upon P. capsici infection and found substantial differences in their gene expression profiles, with altered genes being significantly enriched in terms relating to plant-pathogen interaction, phytohormone signal transduction, and secondary metabolic pathways, including phenylpropanoid biosynthesis. Further metabolome analysis revealed the resistant P. flaviflorum to have a high background endogenous ABA reservoir and time-course-dependent accumulation of ABA and SA upon P. capsici inoculation, while the susceptible P. nigrum had a high background endogenous IAA reservoir and time-course-dependent accumulation of JA-Ile, the active form of JA. Investigation of the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis metabolome further indicated the resistant P. flaviflorum to have more accumulation of lignin precursors than the susceptible P. nigrum, resulting in a higher accumulation after inoculation. This study provides an overall characterization of biologically important pathways underlying the resistance of P. flaviflorum, which theoretically explains the advantage of using this species as rootstock for the management of oomycete pathogen in black pepper production.

[Progress in the treatment of refractory macular hole by human amniotic membrane]

The surgery of refractory macular hole is often very tough for its uncertain prognosis. There is no unified definition for refractory macular hole, which usually refers to macular hole with a long duration, large diameter, or failure of initial operation. Treatment success can be achieved in some cases by expanding the range of internal limiting membrane peeling or filling with autologous tissue. Human amniotic membrane is a kind of tissue with strong anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrosis effects, and has been widely used in the treatment of ocular surface diseases. In recent years, amniotic membrane has been used in treating refractory macular hole. Some positive results have been achieved, including improvement of postoperative macular structure and increase of visual function. This review focuses on the mechanism, efficacy and prospect of human amniotic membrane in the treatment of refractory macular hole, providing reference for clinical practice and research.

[Epidemiological characteristics of herpes zoster in Xicheng district of Beijing in 2019: based on the health information system of medical institutions]

Objective: Using data of health information system (HIS) of medical institutions to study epidemiological characteristics of herpes zoster in Xicheng district of Beijing. Methods: To collect data of outpatient herpes zoster cases of all 42 medical institutions in 2019 based on HIS. After distinguishing the reduplicated cases, we organized these data for descriptive epidemiological analysis. Results: A total of 3 982 primary outpatient cases were investigated, the estimated incidence was 3.38‰ (3 982/1 178 999). The incidence was 2.90‰ (1 655/570 320) for males and 3.82‰ (2 327/608 679) for females and with increasing trends with age. Herpes zoster occurred from January to December. These cases mainly visited tertiary hospitals, with central departments as dermatology and traditional Chinese medicine involved. For the first identified cases, the average age was (60.48±15.43) years old. The ages of disseminated herpes zoster patients was (74.00±8.98) years old, while the age of herpes zoster in the outer ear was (54.32±15.73) years old. The top three diseases were herpes zoster, post-herpetic neuralgia, and Herpes zoster with other neurological complications, with proportions as 82.65% (3 291/3 982), 10.37% (413/3 982), and 4.37% (174/3 982), respectively. Conclusions: Most herpes zoster cases were more than 50 years old in Xicheng district of Beijing, with females have seen more than males. Complications commonly occurred among individuals more than 50 years old and with the most widely seen complication as post-herpetic neuralgia.

[Association between platelet parameters and risk for stroke in people with different blood pressure levels: Dongfeng-Tongji cohort]

Objective: To explore the associations of platelet parameters platelet count (PLT), mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW) and plateletcrit (PCT) with the risk for stroke in people with different blood pressure levels. Methods: All the participants were from Dongfeng-Tongji cohort, including 38 295 retired employees from Dongfeng Motor Corporation at the first follow-up survey. After excluding participants with coronary heart disease, stroke, cancer, history of platelet influential drug use and those with missed data of platelet parameters or blood pressure or lost to follow-up, finally a total of 21 294 participants were included in this study. All the participants completed baseline questionnaires, physical examinations, clinical biochemical tests, and blood sample collection. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and the corresponding 95% confident intervals (CIs) for the associations between platelet parameters and risk for stroke in people with different blood pressure levels. Results: After a mean follow-up of 8.0 years, 1 578 participants developed incident stroke [1 266 ischemic stroke (IS) cases and 312 hemorrhagic stroke (HS) cases]. Compared with the participants with PLT<188×10⁹/L, those with PLT≥188×10⁹/L among hypertension cases were significantly associated with higher risks for stroke and IS (stroke: HR=1.27, 95%CI: 1.12-1.44; IS: HR=1.39, 95%CI: 1.21-1.60). Among hypertension group, compared with participants with PCT<0.165%, PCT≥0.165% were significantly associated with higher risk for stroke (HR=1.15, 95%CI: 1.01-1.30) and lower risk for HS (HR=0.70, 95%CI: 0.53-0.93); Among non-hypertension and hypertension group, PCT ≥0.165% were significantly associated with higher risks of IS (HR=1.27, 95%CI: 1.05-1.54; HR=1.31, 95%CI: 1.14-1.50). MPV and PDW were not significantly associated with risk for stroke. Risk for stroke increased significantly in hypertension cases with different platelet parameters levels compared with non-hypertension cases with lower levels of each platelet parameters. Conclusion: Higher levels of PLT and PCT could increase the risks for stroke and IS in middle-aged and elderly hypertension patients, and lower levels of PCT could decrease the risk for HS in hypertension patients.

[QARS1 gene related glutaminyl-tRNA synthetase deficiency syndrome: report of three cases and a review of literature]

Objective: To investigate the clinical characteristics, treatment and prognosis of QARS1 gene related glutaminyl-tRNA synthetase deficiency. Methods: To summarize and analyze the clinical manifestations, imaging, laboratory examination, genetic variant characteristics and treatment of three patients from the Fujian Medical University Affiliated Union Hospital, the 900th Hospital of People's Liberation Army, the First Medical Center of People's Liberation Army General Hsopital carrying compound heterozygous variations in QARS1 gene with a long-term follow-up in China. A literature search was conducted using Wanfang, Weipu, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Pubmed databases with the keywords "QARS", "QARS1" and "glutaminyl-tRNA Synthetase"(up to December 2019). Results: Case 1, a female 53 days of age, was admitted to the Fujian Medical University Affiliated Union Hospital for treatment because of the complaint of repetitive seizures for one month after birth and fever for one day. The seizure occurred within the first 2 hours of life with multiple forms and often had a status as persisted from hours to days. The seizures were resistant to many anti-epilepsy drugs (AED) and ketogenic diet but later controlled by clonazepam. However, she died at the age of seven years. Case 2 (younger brother of case 1), a one-hour-old boy, was hospitalized because of seizures after birth for 1 hour. Intrauterine growth retardation was discovered during late-pregnancy. The boy presented seizures and microcephaly immediately after birth, and his epilepsy was pharmacoresisitant. Case 3, an 8-month-old girl, was admitted due to recurrent convulsions for nearly two months. The girl had mild developmental retardation and hypotonia after birth. The infantile spasm was observed at her age of 6 months and disappeared under treatment with Vitamin B6, vigabatrin combined with adreno-cortico-tropic-hormone and magnesium sulfate. However, the seizure pattern turned to tonic seizures later. She was seizures free now with clobazam and zonisamide treatment. All of them manifested as a syndrome composed of severe global developmental retardation, progressive microcephaly, hypotonia from the very beginning, mild hypoproteinemia and diffuse brain atrophy. Genetic studies revealed compound heterozygous variations of QARS1 gene which were not reported previously. A review of the literature reported a total of 22 patients from 18 unrelated families all over the world. Except for 5 cases without epilepsy,all the patients shared very similar clinical manifestations as classic pentalogy. The recommended effective treatment for epilepsy has not been reported yet. Conclusions: Glutaminyl-tRNA synthetase deficiency caused by QARS1 gene variations manifested as a clinical syndrome's pentalogy, characterized by microcephaly, cerebral atrophy, intractable early-onset epileptic encephalopathy, global developmental retardation and severe muscle hypotonia.

Optical fiber surface waveguide with Fabry-Perot cavity for sensing

A parallel structured optical fiber Fabry-Perot interferometer sensor is proposed and demonstrated for refractive index and strain sensing with low temperature cross sensitivity. The device consists of two Fabry-Perot cavities fabricated by a femtosecond laser: one is inscribed in the fiber surface waveguide and used for sensing, and the other one is located in the fiber core for referencing. Part of the light propagating in the fiber core can be directed to the fiber surface waveguide via an X coupler. Because of the evanescent field, the light traveling along the fiber surface waveguide interacts with the surrounding medium and enables external refractive index sensing. The measurement sensitivity of the device is enhanced due to the Vernier effect associated with the parallel structured two Fabry-Perot interferometers. The sensitivities of ∼843.3nm/RIU and ∼101.8pm/µε have been obtained for refractive index and strain, respectively, and the corresponding temperature cross sensitivities are ∼9.6×10^-6RIU/^∘C and ∼7.956×10^-2µε/^∘C, respectively. The device is featured with high robustness, compact size, and large sensitivity.

[Association of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon exposure and CYP1A1 gene and enzyme activity of peripheral blood monocyte cells in coke oven workers]

Objective: To explore the association between polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) exposure and cytochrome P450 CYP1A1 expression at gene and enzyme activity levels in the peripheral blood monocyte cells in coke oven workers, and to provide a certain basis for the biological monitoring of health damage in coke oven workers. Methods: We surveyed 118 coke oven workers and 63 controls (energy power workers in the same company) using self-designed questionnaire, determined their post-shift urinary 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OH-Py) concentration using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-fluorescence detector method. We also isolated the peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) from fasting venous blood, and detected DNA damage using comet assay, CYP1A1 mRNA level using the real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR (FQ-PCR), and EROD activity using spectrophotometry. Statistical analyses including one-way analysis of variance and multiple linear regressions were used to analyze the association of urinary 1-OH-Py and CYP1A1 mRNA level and EROD activity. Results: Compared to the control group, the urinary 1-OH-Py concentration and PBMC DNA tail moment were significantly increased in coke oven workers (P<0.05), and CYP1A1 gene level and EROD activity in PBMC were significantly decreased (P<0.05). Multiple linear regression showed that a ten-fold increase of urinary 1-OH-Pycon centration was associated with a decrease of 0.77 (95%CI: -1.33--0.21) in CYP1A1 gene level, and a decline of 0.15 (95%CI: -0.76--0.16) in EROD activity of PBMC in coke oven workers (P<0.05). Conclusion: Occupational PAHs exposure induced DNA damage, which was associated with the decreased level in CYP1A1 gene cavel and EROD activity in PBMC of coke oven workers.

[Impact of informal e-waste recycling on human health]

Increasing e-waste has become a major problem for global environment and public health. In the process of dismantling and recycling of disordered electronic waste, heavy metals such as lead and brominated flame retardants and organic substances are released into environmental media such as air, soil, dust and water, which is harmful to the health of local residents. Taking an e-waste dismantling area in Guangdong Province as an example, this paper reviews exposure levels of heavy metals and organic matters in e-waste recycling areas in China, as well as the health effects of local residents. Previous studies have found that e-waste recycling activities led to serious environmental pollution and high exposure levels of heavy metals and organic matters in local residents, which has a certain impact on the physiological functions of various human systems. The establishment of a centralized dismantling zone can effectively reduce the load level of various pollutants.

[Clinical efficacy of recombinant activated factor Ⅶ a for 16 hematonosis with moderate or severe bleeding]

目的

观察重组人凝血因子Ⅶa（rFⅦa）对血液病及其异基因造血干细胞移植（allo-HSCT）术后出血患者的止血疗效。

方法

以2013年5月至2016年5月住院治疗的16例合并中至重度出血的血液病患者为观察对象，非移植组及移植组患者各8例，两组患者应用rFⅦa的用法、用量无明显差异。同时，以同期15例allo-HSCT后发生肠道急性移植物抗宿主病（aGVHD）肠出血患者为对照组（未应用rFⅦa），将其与allo-HSCT后肠道aGVHD肠出血应用rFⅦa患者进行生存比较，总结患者应用rFⅦa治疗的临床疗效。

结果

①非移植组与移植组患者中，rFⅦa止血显效率分别为75.0%（6/8）和37.5%（3/8），显效中位时间分别为38.5和63.0 h，中位总生存（OS）时间分别为201.0和29.0 d，OS率分别为50.0%（4/8）和25.0%（2/8），出血相关死亡率分别为50.0%（2/4）和83.3%（5/6）。②16例患者中显效者9例，无效者7例，显效组与无效组患者中，中位OS时间分别为268.0和24.0 d，OS率分别为66.7%（6/9）和0（0/7）。③同期肠道aGVHD合并肠出血患者，观察组（6例）与对照组（15例）患者的中位OS时间分别为25.5和20.0 d。

结论

血液病患者尤其是allo-HSCT患者出血相关死亡率高，rFⅦa治疗有一定止血疗效；显效组患者OS率较无效组高；allo-HSCT后肠道出血患者采用rFⅦa治疗止血效果不佳的原因可能与移植后导致出血的并发症控制不佳有关。

[Application of uterine lower part breakwater-like suture operation in placenta previa]

Objective: To explore the efficacy and safety of uterine lower posterior wall breakwater-like suture technique in controlling the intraoperative bleeding of placenta previa. Methods: From June 2016 to June 2017, 47 patients were diagnosed placenta previa in Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology. Posterior wall breakwater-like suture technique was used preferentially, as for cases with poor myometrium layer, lower anterior wall stitch suture was used at the same time. Bilateral descending branches of uterine artery ligation and Cook balloon compression of uterine lower segment was conducted when necessary. The clinic data of the 47 cases were analyzed. Results: Thirty cases (63.8, 30/47) were diagnosed placenta inccreta or percreta by ultrasound or MRI preoperatively. Senventeen cases were diagnosed as placenta accreta (36.2%, 17/47) . Thirty-four cases had the previous history of cesarean section. The average cervical canal length of 47 patients was (2.8±0.9) cm. There were 19 cases (40.4%,19/47) with 1 time posterior wall breakwater-like sutured and 16 cases (34.0%,16/47) with 2 or 3 times posterior wall breakwater-like sutured; 12 cases (25.5%,12/47) were treated with anterior wall stitch suture simultaneously.Ten cases (21.3%, 10/47) underwent uterine artery ligation, 17 cases (36.2%, 17/47) underwent COOK balloon compression on the staxis surface of lower segment. None of them had postpartum hemorrhage or performed internal iliac artery embolization. The median blood loss in the operation was 700 ml, the percentiles 25 was 500 ml, and the percentiles 75 was 1 200 ml. The blood loss ≥1 000 ml in 18 (38.3%, 18/47) patients,and the most serious one was 2 500 ml. The median blood transfusion volume (including allogenetic transfusion and autotransfusion) was 450 ml, the percentiles 25 was 228 ml, and the percentiles 75 was 675 ml. The average vaginal bleeding volume was (150±63) ml first day after operation. The mean hospitalization time was (4.7±1.0) days. The mean gestational weeks of pregnancy termination was (36.1±1.5) weeks, and the mean birth weight of newborns was (2 817±492) g. Apgar score:1-minute 7.8±1.1, 5-minute 8.9±0.8. No neonatal death, 16 cases were transferred to neonatal ICU (34.0%, 16/47) mainly for premature delivery and low birth weight. No complication was found in 6 months post-operation. Conclusions: Uterine posterior wall breakwater-like suture technique is a simple, safe and effective way in controlling intraoperative bleeding of placental previa.Lower anterior wall stitch suture could effectively stop bleeding and restore the normal uterine shape. Combined application of various methods could significantly reduce the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage and hysterectomy, and improve maternal and fetal prognosis.

A novel flow sensor based on resonant sensing with two-stage microleverage mechanism

The design, simulation, fabrication, and experiments of a novel flow sensor based on resonant sensing with a two-stage microleverage mechanism are presented in this paper. Different from the conventional detection methods for flow sensors, two differential resonators are adopted to implement air flow rate transformation through two-stage leverage magnification. The proposed flow sensor has a high sensitivity since the adopted two-stage microleverage mechanism possesses a higher amplification factor than a single-stage microleverage mechanism. The modal distribution and geometric dimension of the two-stage leverage mechanism and hair are analyzed and optimized by Ansys simulation. A digital closed-loop driving technique with a phase frequency detector-based coordinate rotation digital computer algorithm is implemented for the detection and locking of resonance frequency. The sensor fabricated by the standard deep dry silicon on a glass process has a device dimension of 5100 μm (length) × 5100 μm (width) × 100 μm (height) with a hair diameter of 1000 μm. The preliminary experimental results demonstrate that the maximal mechanical sensitivity of the flow sensor is approximately 7.41 Hz/(m/s)² at a resonant frequency of 22 kHz for the hair height of 9 mm and increases by 2.42 times as hair height extends from 3 mm to 9 mm. Simultaneously, a detection-limit of 3.23 mm/s air flow amplitude at 60 Hz is confirmed. The proposed flow sensor has great application prospects in the micro-autonomous system and technology, self-stabilizing micro-air vehicles, and environmental monitoring.

[Preliminary study on reading speed test with IReST for normally-sighted young Chinese readers]

Objective: To assess the reading speed of normally-sighted young Chinese with the International Reading Speed Texts (IReST) Chinese version, and evaluate the normal range of the texts, the equivalence of the ten different texts and the potential clinical value. Methods: Evaluation of diagnostic techniques. Participants aged 18 to 35 years old with junior high school or above education and best corrected visual acuity no less than 0.6 were recruited. Best corrected visions of both eyes and binocular vision were tested, and ocular and nervous system diseases were excluded with slit-lamp microscope and funduscope. All the ten texts were read aloud at a distance of 40cm one by one according to a random sequence for each participant. Reading speeds were calculated based on the reading time measured with a stopwatch and number of characters read correctly. The procedure was repeated once again a week later. Data were collected with Epidata and further analyzed with R software. Data accorded with normal distribution and homogeneity of variance were compared by t-test, or by rank sum test. Results: One hundred and three volunteers aged (26.0±2.8) years old participated in the survey. Among them, 66% were female, 96.1% had college education, 53.4% wear glasses in daily life. The best corrected vision of both distance and near were 1.0 (decimal). For the first test, average reading speed for all the participants and texts was (295±51) characters/min,much faster than the normal range provided by the reading cards. No significant difference was found between different texts, and the biggest variance between texts was 11 characters/min(P>0.05). The average reading speed of the second test was (315±53) characters/min, which was faster than the first one (P<0.05) . No statistic relationship was found between reading speed and age, education level or wearing of glasses. However, women read faster than men, and significant difference was found between male and female volunteers in 5 texts during the first test. Conclusions: Normally-sighted young Chinese readers read faster than the normal range provided by IReST cards. There is significant variance of reading speed between different individuals. Although learning effect due to the repeated tests should be considered, the ten texts are of favorable consistency. IReST can be a useful tool for assessing reading performance, especially for comparing results before and after interventions with different texts. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2018, 54: 120-124).

Visualization and automatic detection of defect distribution in GaN atomic structure from sampling Moiré phase

Quantitative detection of defects in atomic structures is of great significance to evaluating product quality and exploring quality improvement process. In this study, a Fourier transform filtered sampling Moiré technique was proposed to visualize and detect defects in atomic arrays in a large field of view. Defect distributions, defect numbers and defect densities could be visually and quantitatively determined from a single atomic structure image at low cost. The effectiveness of the proposed technique was verified from numerical simulations. As an application, the dislocation distributions in a GaN/AlGaN atomic structure in two directions were magnified and displayed in Moiré phase maps, and defect locations and densities were detected automatically. The proposed technique is able to provide valuable references to material scientists and engineers by checking the effect of various treatments for defect reduction.

Defective eyelid leading edge cell migration in C57BL/6-corneal opacity mice with an "eye open at birth" phenotype

Development of the eyelid requires coordination of the cellular processes involved in proliferation, cell size alteration, migration, and cell death. C57BL/6J-corneal opacity (B6-Co) mice are mutant mice generated by the administration of N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (100 mg/kg). They exhibit the eyelids open at birth phenotype, abnormal round cell shape from tightened F-actin bundles in leading edge keratinocytes at E16.5, and gradual corneal opacity with neovessels. The tip of the leading edge in B6-Co mice did not move forward, and demonstrated a sharp peak shape without obvious directionality. Analysis of the biological characteristics of B6-Co mice demonstrated that abnormal migration of keratinocytes could affect eyelid development, but proliferation and apoptosis in B6-Co mice had no effect. Mutant gene mapping and sequence analysis demonstrated that in B6-Co mice, adenosine was inserted into the untranslated regions, between 3030 and 3031, in the mRNA 3'-terminal of Fgf10. In addition, guanine 7112 was substituted by adenine in the Mtap1B mRNA, and an A2333T mutation was identified in Mtap1B. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis showed that expression of the Hbegf gene was significantly down-regulated in the eyelids of B6- Co mice at E16.5, compared to B6 mice. However, the expression of Rock1, Map3k1, and Jnk1 genes did not show any significant changes. Abnormal keratinocyte migration and down-regulated expression of the Hbegf gene might be associated with impaired eyelid development in B6-Co mice.

First detection and molecular characterization of sapoviruses and noroviruses with zoonotic potential in swine in Ethiopia

Noroviruses (NoVs) and sapoviruses (SaVs), which belong to the family Caliciviridae, are important human and animal enteric pathogens with zoonotic potential. In Ethiopia, no study has been done on the epidemiology of animal NoVs and SaVs. The aim of this study was to detect and characterize NoVs and SaVs from swine of various ages. Swine fecal samples (n = 117) were collected from commercial farms in Ethiopia. The samples were screened for caliciviruses by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) using universal and genogroup-specific primer pairs. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted using a portion of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) region and the VP1 region of genome sequences of caliciviruses. Among 117 samples, potential caliciviruses were detected by RT-PCR in 17 samples (14.5 %). Of the RT-PCR-positive fecal samples, four were sequenced, of which two were identified as human NoV GII.1 and the other two as porcine SaV GIII. The porcine SaV strains that were detected were genetically related to the porcine enteric calicivirus Cowden strain genogroup III (GIII), which is the prototype porcine SaV strain. No porcine NoVs were detected. Our results showed the presence of NoVs in swine that are most similar to human strains. These findings have important implications for NoV epidemiology and food safety. Therefore, continued surveillance of NoVs in swine is needed to define their zoonotic potential, epidemiology and public and animal health impact. This is the first study to investigate enteric caliciviruses (noroviruses and sapoviruses) in swine in Ethiopia.

Prevalence and molecular characterization of human noroviruses and sapoviruses in Ethiopia

Viral gastroenteritis is a major public health problem worldwide. In Ethiopia, very limited studies have been done on the epidemiology of enteropathogenic viruses. The aim of this study was to detect and characterize noroviruses (NoVs) and sapoviruses (SaVs) from acute gastroenteritis patients of all ages. Fecal samples were collected from diarrheic patients (n = 213) in five different health centers in Addis Ababa during June-September 2013. The samples were screened for caliciviruses by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) using universal and genogroup-specific primer pairs. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using the sequences of the PCR products. Of the clinical samples, 25.3 % and 4.2 % were positive for NoV and SaV RNA, respectively. Among the norovirus positives, 22 were sequenced further, and diverse norovirus strains were identified: GI (n = 4), GII (n = 17) and GIV (n = 1). Most strains were GII (n = 17/22: 77.2 %), which were further divided into three different genotypes (GII.4, GII.12/GII.g recombinant-like and GII.17), with GII.17 being the dominant (7/17) strain detected. GI noroviruses, in particular GI.4 (n = 1), GI.5 (n = 2) and GI.8 (n = 1), were also detected and characterized. The GIV strain detected is the first from East Africa. The sapoviruses sequenced were also the first reported from Ethiopia. Collectively, this study showed the high burden and diversity of noroviruses and circulation of sapoviruses in diarrheic patients in Ethiopia. Continued surveillance to assess their association with diarrhea is needed to define their epidemiology, disease burden, and impact on public health.

Effects of flurbiprofen axetil on postoperative serum IL-2 and IL-6 levels in patients with colorectal cancer

We explored the effects of flurbiprofen axetil on interleukin (IL)-2 and IL-6 levels in postoperative patients with colorectal cancer. A total of 120 patients (American Society of Anesthesiologists I and II) scheduled to undergo colorectal cancer surgery were randomly divided into 3 groups (N = 40 in each group): flurbiprofen axetil group (group F), morphine group (group M), and tramadol group (group T). Group M received 0.1 mg/kg morphine, group T received 1.5 mg/kg tramadol, and group F received 1.5 mg/kg flurbiprofen axetil. Patients in the 3 groups were administered treatments through intravenous injection 10 min before surgery. Serum IL-2 and IL-6 levels were detected. Postoperative adverse reactions were recorded, such as nausea, vomiting, and pruritus. The serum IL-6 level of the 3 groups increased 3 h after surgery. Compared with group M, IL-6 level was higher in group T and group F at 1 day after the surgery, and the differences between group M and the other groups were significant (P < 0.05). Moreover, the incidence of adverse reactions was significantly different among 3 groups (P < 0.05). Flurbiprofen axetil promoted the secretion of IL-2 and inhibited IL-6; additionally, flurbiprofen axetil may have a lower incidence of adverse reactions compared to other treatments.

Creation of experimental aneurysms at a surgically created arterial confluence

OBJECTIVE

Complex vertebral confluence aneurysms remain clinically challenging despite the rapid technological advances in endovascular technology. Therefore, animal confluence aneurysm models are urgently needed for the preclinical development of related medical devices and training clinicians. This study aimed to establish canine confluence aneurysm model and evaluate hemodynamics in this model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

According to the shape and regional blood flow of vertebrobasilar junction (VBJ) aneurysms, confluence aneurysm was introduced in 9 dogs by microsurgical technique. We partially anastomosed right common carotid artery (CCA) and left CCA (end to side anastomosis) to create inverted Y-junction of arteries and, then, sutured a harvested segment of external jugular vein to the notch of anastomosis to simulate confluence aneurysm. These animals were examined by 3D digital subtraction angiography (DSA) 4 weeks after surgery. Geometry parameters of the aneurysm, surrounding vasculature and specific double inlet profiles were analyzed by simulating computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in these animals.

RESULTS

Aneurysms were successfully established in all animals, including 8 complete and 1 partially thrombosed aneurysms. No neurological defects or death were observed. Geometric and hemodynamic parameters in these surgically introduced confluence aneurysm animals are similar to those reported for human VBJ aneurysms.

CONCLUSIONS

This study documents a protocol to successfully establish confluence aneurysm models in dogs. This model may be useful in preclinical studies targeting various complex vertebral confluence aneurysms.

Molecular characterization and expression analysis of purple acid phosphatase gene from pearl oyster Pinctada martensii

Purple acid phosphatases (PAPs), also known as type 5 acid phosphatases, are widely present in animals, plants, and fungi. In mammal, PAP was reported to participate in immune defense and bone resorption. In this study, the characteristics and potential functions of a PAP gene from pearl oyster Pinctada martensii (pm-PAP) were examined. The Pm-PAP cDNA was found to be 2777 base pairs, containing a 1581-base pair open reading fragment encoding for 526 amino acids with an estimated molecular mass of 60.1 kDa and theoretical isoelectric point of 5.82. One signal peptide and five conserved motifs [GDXX/GDXXY/GNH(D/E)/XXXH/(A/G)HXH] were present in the entire sequence. Tissue expression profile analysis showed that pm-PAP mRNA was constitutively expressed in all tissues studied with abundant mRNA found in mollusk defense system, including hepatopancreas, gill, and hemocytes. After lipopolysaccharide stimulation, the expression of pm-PAP mRNA in hemocytes was dramatically upregulated at 2 h and achieved the highest level at 36 h. Additionally, pm-PAP mRNA expression was significantly increased and achieved the highest level at 2 days after the surgical implantation during pearl production. These results suggest that pm-PAP is a constitutive and inducible protein that may be involved in the immune defense of pearl oyster.

Cassava genome from a wild ancestor to cultivated varieties

Cassava is a major tropical food crop in the Euphorbiaceae family that has high carbohydrate production potential and adaptability to diverse environments. Here we present the draft genome sequences of a wild ancestor and a domesticated variety of cassava and comparative analyses with a partial inbred line. We identify 1,584 and 1,678 gene models specific to the wild and domesticated varieties, respectively, and discover high heterozygosity and millions of single-nucleotide variations. Our analyses reveal that genes involved in photosynthesis, starch accumulation and abiotic stresses have been positively selected, whereas those involved in cell wall biosynthesis and secondary metabolism, including cyanogenic glucoside formation, have been negatively selected in the cultivated varieties, reflecting the result of natural selection and domestication. Differences in microRNA genes and retrotransposon regulation could partly explain an increased carbon flux towards starch accumulation and reduced cyanogenic glucoside accumulation in domesticated cassava. These results may contribute to genetic improvement of cassava through better understanding of its biology.

Cassava genome from a wild ancestor to cultivated varieties

Cassava is a major tropical food crop in the Euphorbiaceae family that has high carbohydrate production potential and adaptability to diverse environments. Here we present the draft genome sequences of a wild ancestor and a domesticated variety of cassava and comparative analyses with a partial inbred line. We identify 1,584 and 1,678 gene models specific to the wild and domesticated varieties, respectively, and discover high heterozygosity and millions of single-nucleotide variations. Our analyses reveal that genes involved in photosynthesis, starch accumulation and abiotic stresses have been positively selected, whereas those involved in cell wall biosynthesis and secondary metabolism, including cyanogenic glucoside formation, have been negatively selected in the cultivated varieties, reflecting the result of natural selection and domestication. Differences in microRNA genes and retrotransposon regulation could partly explain an increased carbon flux towards starch accumulation and reduced cyanogenic glucoside accumulation in domesticated cassava. These results may contribute to genetic improvement of cassava through better understanding of its biology.

First Report of Gray Mold of Rhizoma paridis Caused by Botrytis cinerea in China

Rhizoma paridis is a perennial, traditional Chinese medicinal herb. In May 2013, a disease was observed in an approximately 10 ha cultivated field in Enshi, Hubei Province, China. Approximately 80% of plants in the field were affected. Symptoms were visible on the basal leaves of affected plants. Chlorosis followed by necrosis started at the leaf tips and margins and gradually spread inward until the entire leaf was necrotic. Thick, gray mycelium and conidia were visible on both sides surface of leaves under wet, humid conditions. The leading edge of the chlorotic leaves was excised from 20 plant samples surface disinfested with 1% NaOCl solution for 1 min, rinsed in sterile water, air dried, and placed on potato dextrose agar (PDA). Plates were incubated at 22°C in the dark. Mycelia were initially hyaline and white, and became dark gray after 72 h. Mycelia were septate with dark branched conidiophores. Conidia were smooth, hyaline, ovoid, aseptate, and ranged from 8 to 14.5 × 7 to 8.5 μm. Numerous hard, small, irregular, and black sclerotia that were 1 to 3 × 2 to 5 mm were visible on PDA plates after 12 days. The fungus was identified as Botrytis cinerea on the basis of these characters (1). The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of rDNA was amplified using the ITS1 and ITS4 primer and sequenced (GenBank Accession No. KF265499). BLAST analysis of the PCR product showed 99% identity to Botryotinia fuckeliana (perfect stage of B. cinerea) (EF207415.1, EF207414.1). The pathogen was further identified to the species level as B. cinerea using gene sequences from glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (G3PDH), heat-shock protein 60 (HSP60), and DNA-dependent RNA polymerase subunit II (RPB2) (2) (KJ638600, KJ638602, and KJ638601). Pathogenicity was tested by spraying the foliage of 40 two-year-old plants with a suspension of 10⁶ conidia per ml of sterile distilled water. Each plant received 30 ml of the inoculum. Ten healthy potted plants were inoculated with sterilized water as control. All plants were covered with plastic bags for 5 days after inoculation to maintain high relative humidity and were placed in a growth chamber at 22°C. The first foliar lesions developed on leaves 7 days after inoculation and were similar to those observed in the field. No symptoms developed on the control plants. B. cinerea was consistently re-isolated from all artificially inoculated plants. The pathogenicity test was completed twice. To our knowledge, this is the first report of gray mold of R. paridis caused by B. cinerea in China. The root of R. paridis is the most commonly used Chinese herbal medicine to treat viper bites. In recent years, cultivation of this herb has increased in China because of its high value. Consequently, the economic importance of this disease is likely to increase with the greater prevalence of this host species. References: (1) H. L. Barnett and B. B. Hunter. Illustrated Genera of Imperfect Fungi. Burgess Publishing Company, Minneapolis, MN, 1972. (2) M. Staats et al. Mol. Biol. Evol. 22:333, 2005.

Radiation-induced metabolomic changes in sterile male Μοnochamus alternatus (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae)

Radiation-induced sterile insect technique is a biologically based, environment-friendly method for the suppression or eradication of a number of insect pests. Although the basic mechanisms underlying the technology have been well studied, little is known about the cell responses in organisms. Characterization of the metabolic shift associated with radiation exposure in sterile insects would be helpful for understanding the detailed mechanism underlying this technique and promote its practical application. In this article, a metabolomic study was performed to characterize the global metabolic changes induced by radiation using untreated and 40 Gy (60)Coγ-irradiated testes of Japanese pine sawyer, Monochamus alternatus Hope. Differential metabolites were detected and tentatively identified. Many key metabolites in glycolysis and the tricarboxylic acid cycle, as well as most fatty and amino acids, were elevated in irradiated male M. alternatus, presumably resulting from depression of glycolysis and the tricarboxylic acid cycle, each of which are important pathways for energy generation Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) in insect spermatozoa. The findings in this article will contribute to our knowledge of the characteristic metabolic changes associated with irradiation sterility and understand the molecular mechanisms underlying radiation-induced sterile insect technique.

Comparison of four kinds of extraction techniques and kinetics of microwave-assisted extraction of vanillin from Vanilla planifolia Andrews

Vanillin yield, microscopic structure, antioxidant activity and overall odour of vanilla extracts obtained by different treatments were investigated. MAE showed the strongest extraction power, shortest time and highest antioxidant activity. Maceration gave higher vanillin yields than UAE and PAE, similar antioxidant activity with UAE, but longer times than UAE and PAE. Overall odour intensity of different vanilla extracts obtained by UAE, PAE and MAE were similar, while higher than maceration extracts. Then, powered vanilla bean with a sample/solvent ratio of 4 g/100 mL was selected as the optimum condition for MAE. Next, compared with other three equations, two-site kinetic equation with lowest RMSD and highest R²(adj) was shown to be more suitable in describing the kinetics of vanillin extraction. By fitting the parameters C(eq), k₁, k₂, and f, a kinetics model was constructed to describe vanillin extraction in terms of irradiation power, ethanol concentration, and extraction time.

Isolation and characterization of microsatellite DNA loci from the peanut worm, Sipunculus nudus

Sipunculus nudus, the peanut worm, is the best known species in its genus. This unsegmented subtidal marine worm is consumed in some parts of Asia and is also used as fish bait. We found 20 microsatellite DNA markers for S. nudus. The number of alleles per polymorphic locus ranged from two to seven in a sample of 39 individuals. Observed and expected heterozygosities per polymorphic locus varied from 0.103 to 1.000 and from 0.307 to 0.771, respectively. Five loci showed significant departure from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium after sequential Bonferroni's correction. No significant linkage disequilibrium between pairs of loci was found. These microsatellite markers will provide useful tools for investigating genetic population structure, population history and conservation management of S. nudus.

Long-term outcome of elective stenting for symptomatic intracranial vertebrobasilar stenosis

Seventy-nine consecutive patients with symptomatic atherosclerotic stenosis > or = 50% of intracranial vertebrobasilar artery (VBA) were treated by elective stenting. There were five strokes within 30 days, and three strokes in the VBA territory after 30 days (mean of 812 days). The annual stroke rate in the VBA territory (including any stroke and death within 30 days) was 4.6%. At the last follow-up time, 73 patients were independent (modified Rankin scale grade < or = 2). The outcome compares favorably with medical therapy.

Comparison of elective stenting of severe vs moderate intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis

OBJECTIVE

To test whether symptomatic severe intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis was associated with a higher subsequent stroke risk than moderate stenosis after elective angioplasty with a balloon-expandable stent and to explore which factors were associated with the subsequent stroke.

METHODS

Between September 2001 and June 2005, there were 220 symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic stenoses in 213 patients undergoing elective stenting at our institute. Of these stenoses, 126 in 121 patients were > or =70% severe stenoses, and 94 in 92 patients were 50% to 69% moderate stenoses. Primary endpoints included lesion-related ischemic stroke, and symptomatic brain or subarachnoid hemorrhage.

RESULTS

Ten primary endpoint events occurred in the severe stenosis group (six within 30 days and four in mean follow-up of 26.0 months after 30 days), and seven occurred in the moderate stenosis group (four within 30 days and three in mean follow-up of 27.6 months after 30 days). There was no significant difference in cumulative probability of primary endpoints between the severe (7.2% at 1 year and 8.2% at 2 years) and moderate (5.3% at 1 year and 8.3% at 2 years) stenosis groups. No single factor was found to be associated with primary endpoints in the moderate stenosis group. Multivariable analysis revealed that stent failure was the only predictor of primary endpoints in the severe stenosis group (hazard ratio 5.31, 95% CI 1.35 to 20.91).

CONCLUSION

Symptomatic severe intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis did not present a higher subsequent stroke risk than moderate stenosis after elective angioplasty with a balloon-expandable stent. Patients with severe stenosis may benefit from successful stent placement, and randomized trials are necessary to demonstrate this possible benefit.

Research on solid-state fermentation on rice chaff with a microbial consortium

A microbial consortium of Trichoderma reesei AS3.3711, Aspergillus niger 3.316 and Saccharomyces cerevisiaes AS2.399 was constructed to decomposed rice chaff on the basis of the characters of each microorganism and the mechanism of cellulases. In this experiment, rice chaff was pretreated before fermentation with NaOH so that the lignin structure of rice chaff was degraded and hemicellulose was dissolved partly, which remove the protection of lignin and hemicellulose on cellulose and demolish its special crystal structure. After pretreatment, rice chaff can be degraded more easily with the microbial consortium. The optimal technical paths and technological methods were achieved for intenerating rice chaff with the microbial consortium perfectly through orthogonal experiment. According to the technological methods, some experiments were done at 30 degrees C with pH 4.5. It was found that the highest filter paper enzyme activity (FPA) was 5.64 U/g and the ratio of cellulose degradation (RCD) was 28.05%.

[Cloning and sequence analysis of a gene encoding amastin from Leishmania major]

OBJECTIVE

To clone a gene encoding surface protein from Leishmania major.

METHODS

Using T. cruzi amastin DNA sequence as a reference, computer search was done on GenBank and dbEST databases by using BLAST path. A Leishmania major DNA library has been constructed and screened by in situ colony hybridization.

RESULTS

A 309nt DNA fragment from Leishmania major was found in dbEST. Leishmania major DNA library was screened using specific primers synthesized according to 309 nt DNA sequence, and a full-length coding sequence for Leishmania major amastin was cloned. The coding sequence consisted of 552 nt, and translated into 183 amino acid residues. The homology is 23.5% at amino acid sequence level between Leishmania major and T. cruzi amastins.

CONCLUSION

A full length amastin coding gene for Leishmania major has been cloned.

Staggered currents in the mixed state

The current pattern in the mixed state of high-T(c) superconductors is studied in the U(1) mean-field theory of the t-J model. Assuming the absence of spin antiferromagnetism we find (1) at moderate doping staggered-current pattern exists in vortex cores and eventually percolates with increasing magnetic field. (2) The polarity of the staggered current is pinned by the magnetic field. (3) Vortex cores with (without) staggered current are slightly negatively (positively) charged. (4) Gutzwiller projection does not wash out the staggered current. We discuss the signature of staggered current in neutron scattering and scanning tunneling microscopy.

Enantiomer separation of mandelates and their analogs on cyclodextrin derivative chiral stationary phases by capillary GC

Enantiomer separation of mandelates and their analogs, which are important intermediates in asymmetric synthetic and pharmaceutical chemistry, was investigated by capillary gas chromatography using different cyclodextrin derivative chiral stationary phases (CD CSPs). The used cyclodextrin derivatives included permethylated beta-CD (PMBCD), permethylated gamma-CD, heptakis(2,6-di-O-butyl-3-O-butyryl)-beta-CD, heptakis(2,6-di-O-pentyl-3-O-acetyl)-beta-CD and heptakis(2,6-di-O-nonyl-3-O-trifluoroacetyl)-beta-CD (DNTBCD), respectively. Among all the CSPs used, PMBCD and DNTBCD exhibited the broadest and best enantioselectivity for all the racemates investigated. Some thermodynamic parameters were evaluated and an enthalpy-entropy compensation effect was observed in enantiomer separation processes of mandelates and their analogs. Based on thermodynamic data and molecular mechanics calculations, the chiral recognition mechanism of mandelate derivatives on CD CSPs is discussed.

Superfluid density in the d-density-wave scenario

Recently Chakravarty, Laughlin, Morr, and Nayak [Phys. Rev. B 62, 4880 (2000)] made an interesting proposal that the cuprate superconductors possess a hidden " d-density-wave" (DDW) order. We study the implication of this proposal for the superfluid density rho(s). We find that it predicts a temperature gradient [d rho(s)/dT](T = 0) that is strongly doping dependent near the critical doping at which the superconducting gap vanishes. This demonstrates that the DDW scenario is inconsistent with existing well-established experimental data.

Allelic loss on chromosome bands 13q11-q13 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Allelic loss on chromosome 13 occurs frequently in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. However, studies of the two known tumor suppressor genes located on 13q, RB1 and BRCA2, have shown few mutations, suggesting that other genes are likely to be involved in the development of this tumor type. To identify a minimal deletion interval, we first analyzed 42 microsatellite markers spanning chromosome bands 13q11-q13 in 56 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients, including 34 with a family history of upper gastrointestinal cancer and 22 without a family history of cancer. Lifestyle risk factors and clinical/pathologic characteristics were also collected. Two commonly deleted regions were identified: one was located on band 13q12.11, between markers D13S787 and D13S221; the other was located on bands 13q12.3-q13.1 from markers D13S267 to D13S219. We observed higher allelic loss frequencies for eight of the microsatellite markers in those patients with a family history of upper gastrointestinal cancer compared to patients without such a history. This study suggests that one or more unidentified tumor suppressor genes are located on chromosome arm 13q that play a role in the development of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

Genetic analysis of the capsid region of astroviruses

Eight serotypes of human astroviruses (HAstV-1 to HAstV-8) have been described. To date, the entire genomes of HAstV-1 and HAstV-2 as well as the ORF2 sequences of HAstV-1-6 and 8 have been reported. In this study, the ORF2 sequences of seventeen strains of HAstVs originating from different countries were determined, as well as the sequence ORF2 of one porcine astrovirus (PAstV) strain. Afterwards, comparison of the capsid protein precursors encoded by ORF2 of 46 strains of HAstVs, PAstV, and feline astrovirus (FAstV) was carried out. A phylogenetic tree showed eight genogroups of HAstVs that corresponded exactly to the serotypes. HAstV-3 and 7 were the most closely related, whereas HAstVs, FAstV, and PAstV segregated from each other. Compared to a PAstV, a FAstV is closer to HAstVs. Furthermore, the capsid protein precursors were divided into four regions (after amino acid residues 424, 688, and 776, respectively) based on sequence identity. Region I was the most conserved, and FAstV was very close in identity to HAstVs. Two amino acid motifs in region I were predicted to contain the common antigenic epitopes. Region II was relatively variable. Deletions and insertions were characteristic of region III, and region IV was relatively conserved. To our knowledge, this is the first comparative sequence analysis of the capsid protein precursors of eight serotypes of HAstVs as well as two animal astroviruses (FAstV and PAstV).

Genetic progression and heterogeneity associated with the development of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma is a common fatal cancer, and Shanxi province, a region in north-central China, has some of the highest esophageal cancer rates in the world. Chromosomal regions with frequent allelic loss may point to major susceptibility genes that will assist us in understanding the molecular events involved in esophageal carcinogenesis and may serve as the basis for the development of markers for genetic susceptibility and screening for early detection of this cancer. This study was designed to identify events in the molecular progression of precursor and invasive lesions of squamous esophageal cancer. Twelve marker loci identified during our previous studies as having some of the highest rates of loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in invasive esophageal cancer were evaluated in laser-microdissected DNA obtained from low- and high-grade dysplastic lesions and invasive tumor foci from 10 fully embedded esophageal resection specimens. Each resection specimen contained a spectrum of disease, from epithelium that appeared histologically normal to invasive cancer, including a single dominant tumor surrounded by a region of precursor lesions (low- and high-grade dysplasia) and occasional "remote," nonadjacent precancerous foci. Using the 12 polymorphic markers, LOH was found in all of the three stages of disease. The frequency of LOH for all of the markers together increased with increasing disease severity. Among the informative low-grade dysplasia samples, LOH was detected with markers D3S1766 (3p), D4S2632 (4p), D9S910 (9q), and D13S1493 (13q), suggesting that LOH at these loci may be associated with early stages of tumor initiation and/or progression. LOH was detected among the informative high-grade (but not low-grade) dysplasia samples for the other eight markers tested, suggesting that LOH at these loci may occur later in the neoplastic process. In addition to the association between disease progression and these genetic changes, considerable genetic heterogeneity was found in each fully embedded resection specimen both between and within geographically separate neoplastic lesions.

Frequent inactivation of the TP53 gene in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma from a high-risk population in China

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most common fatal cancers worldwide, and north central China has some of the highest rates in the world. Previous studies from tumors in this area of China have shown high frequencies of allelic loss on chromosome 17p13-11, which includes the region where the TP53 gene is found. We examined 56 ESCC patients using single-strand conformation polymorphism and DNA sequencing to assess the frequency and spectrum of TP53 mutation and the association between allelic loss at microsatellite marker TP53 and TP53 mutations. Ninety-six % of cases were found to have at least one genetic alteration, including TP53 mutation (77%), allelic loss within the TP53 gene (73%), and/or loss of heterozygosity at the TP53 microsatellite marker (80%); 75% had two or more such alterations, including 59% with both a point mutation and an intragenic allelic loss ("two hits"). The majority of mutations observed were in exon 5, where the most common type of nucleotide substitution was a G:C-->A:T or C:G-->T:A transition, including half that occurred at CpG sites. Allelic loss was most commonly found in exon 4 but was very common in exon 5 as well. Taken together, the multiple genetic alterations of TP53 in this population at high risk for ESCC indicate that there is a very high degree of genetic instability in these tumors, that TP53 is a primary target for inactivation, and that this tumor suppressor gene plays a critical role in the carcinogenesis process for ESCC.

Loss of annexin 1 correlates with early onset of tumorigenesis in esophageal and prostate carcinoma

Annexin I protein expression was evaluated in patient-matched longitudinal study sets of laser capture microdissected normal, premalignant, and invasive epithelium from human esophageal squamous cell cancer and prostatic adenocarcinoma. In 25 esophageal cases (20 by Western blot and 5 by immunohistochemistry) and 17 prostate cases (3 by Western blot and 14 by immunohistochemistry), both tumor types showed either complete loss or a dramatic reduction in the level of annexin I protein expression compared with patient-matched normal epithelium (P < or = 0.05). Moreover, by using Western blot analysis of laser capture microdissected, patient-matched longitudinal study sets of both tumor types, the loss of protein expression occurred in premalignant lesions. Concordance of this result with immunohistochemical analysis suggests that annexin I may be an essential component for maintenance of the normal epithelial phenotype. Additional studies investigating the mechanism(s) and functional consequences of annexin I protein loss in tumor cells are warranted.

High frequency allelic loss on chromosome 17p13.3-p11.1 in esophageal squamous cell carcinomas from a high incidence area in northern China

Allelic loss on chromosome 17p has been reported frequently in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and generally encompasses the p53 locus at 17p13.1. However, a good correlation between allelic loss on 17p and mutation of p53 has not been found. This suggests the possibility that unknown tumor suppressor genes near p53 may be involved in the development of ESCC. To evaluate this possibility, we analyzed 30 microsatellite markers covering the entire short arm of chromosome 17 in 56 ESCC patients from a high risk population in northern China, including 34 with a family history of upper gastrointestinal (UGI) cancer and 22 without a family history of any cancer. Cancer lifestyle risk factors and clinical/pathological characteristics were also collected. We found frequent allelic loss (>/=65%) at 28 of the 30 markers evaluated in these ESCC patients. The highest frequencies of allelic loss (> or =80%) were found in three smaller regions: deletion region I located at 17p13.3-p13.2 (between D17S849 and D17S1828); deletion region II located at 17p13.2-p13.1 (between D13S938 and TP53); deletion region III located at 17p13.1-p12 (between D17S804 and D17S799). A number of genes have already been identified in these deleted regions, including: OVCA1, OVCA2 and HIC-1 in deletion region I; p53 in deletion region II; ZNF18, ZNF29, ALDH3 and ALDH10 in deletion region III. These results will help us direct future testing of candidate genes and narrow the search region for major new tumor suppressor genes that may play a role in the pathogenesis of ESCC.