[The Role of NK Cells in Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Micro-Transplantation for Acute Myeloid leukemia]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the role of NK cells in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell micro-transplantation(MST) in the treatment of patients with acute myeloid leukemia(AML).

METHODS

Data from 93 AML patients treated with MST at our center from 2013-2018 were retrospectively analyzed. The induction regimen was anthracycline and cytarabine combined with peripheral blood stem cells transplantation mobilization by granulocyte colony stimulating factor (GPBSC), followed by 2-4 courses of intensive treatment with medium to high doses of cytarabine combined with GPBSC after achieving complete remission (CR). The therapeutic effects of one and two courses of MST induction therapy on 42 patients who did not reach CR before transplantation were evaluated. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to analyze the impact of donor NK cell dose and KIR genotype, including KIR ligand mismatch, 2DS1, haplotype, and HLA-Cw ligands on survival prognosis of patients.

RESULTS

Forty-two patients received MST induction therapy, and the CR rate was 57.1% after 1 course and 73.7% after 2 courses. Multivariate analysis showed that, medium and high doses of NK cells was significantly associated with improved disease-free survival (DFS) of patients (HR=0.27, P =0.005; HR=0.21, P =0.001), and high doses of NK cells was significantly associated with improved overall survival (OS) of patients (HR=0.15, P =0.000). Donor 2DS1 positive significantly increases OS of patients (HR=0.25, P =0.011). For high-risk patients under 60 years old, patients of the donor-recipient KIR ligand mismatch group had longer DFS compared to the nonmismatch group (P =0.036); donor 2DS1 positive significantly prolonged OS of patients (P =0.009).

CONCLUSION

NK cell dose, KIR ligand mismatch and 2DS1 influence the therapeutic effect of MST, improve the survival of AML patients.

[Effect of preemptive analgesia with ibuprofen on postoperative pain after mandibular third molar extraction: a randomized controlled trial]

Objective: To evaluate the impact of preemptive analgesia with ibuprofen on postoperative pain following the extraction of impacted mandibular third molars in a Chinese population, aiming to provide a clinical reference for its application. Methods: This multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel-group trial was conducted from April 2022 to October 2023 at the Capital Medical University School of Stomatology (40 cases), Beijing TianTan Hospital, Capital Medical University (22 cases), and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University (20 cases). It included 82 patients with impacted mandibular third molars, with 41 in the ibuprofen group and 41 in the control group. Participants in the ibuprofen group received 300 mg of sustained-release ibuprofen capsules orally 15 min before surgery, while the control group received a placebo. Both groups were instructed to take sustained-release ibuprofen capsules as planned for 3 days post-surgery. Pain intensity was measured using the numerical rating scale at 30 min, 4 h, 6 h, 8 h, 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h after surgery, and the use of additional analgesic medication was recorded during days 4 to 6 postoperatively. Results: All 82 patients completed the study according to the protocol. No adverse events such as nausea, vomiting, or allergies were reported in either group during the trial. The ibuprofen group exhibited significantly lower pain scores at 4 h [2.0 (1.0, 4.0) vs. 4.0 (3.0, 5.0)] (Z=-3.73, P<0.001), 6 h [2.0 (1.0, 4.0) vs. 5.0(2.5, 6.0)] (Z=-3.38, P<0.001), and 8 h [2.0 (1.0, 4.0) vs. 5.0 (2.0, 6.0)] (Z=-2.11, P=0.035) postoperatively compared to the control group. There were no statistically significant differences in pain scores between the groups at 30 min, 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h postoperatively (P>0.05). Additionally, 11 out of 41 patients (26.8%) in the ibuprofen group and 23 out of 41 patients (56.1%) in the control group required extra analgesic medication between days 4 and 6 post-surgery, with the ibuprofen group taking significantly fewer additional pills [0.0 (0.0, 1.0) vs. 1.0 (0.0, 3.0)] (Z=-2.81, P=0.005). Conclusions: A pain management regimen involving 300 mg of oral sustained-release ibuprofen capsules administered 15 minutes before surgery and continued for 3 d postoperatively effectively reduces pain levels and the total amount of analgesic medication used after the extraction of impacted mandibular third molars. Considering its efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness, ibuprofen is recommended as a first-line drug for perioperative pain management, enhancing patient comfort during diagnosis and treatment in a feasible manner.

Voltage-Controlled Magnon Transistor via Tuning Interfacial Exchange Coupling

Magnon transistors that can effectively regulate magnon transport by an electric field are desired for magnonics, which aims to provide a Joule-heating free alternative to the conventional electronics owing to the electric neutrality of magnons (the key carriers of spin-angular momenta in the magnonics). However, also due to their electric neutrality, magnons have no access to directly interact with an electric field and it is thus difficult to manipulate magnon transport by voltages straightforwardly. Here, we demonstrated a gate voltage (V_{g}) applied on a nonmagnetic metal and magnetic insulator (MI) interface that bent the energy band of the MI and then modulated the probability for conduction electrons in the nonmagnetic metal to tunnel into the MI, which can consequently enhance or weaken the spin-magnon conversion efficiency at the interface. A voltage-controlled magnon transistor based on the magnon-mediated electric current drag (MECD) effect in a Pt-Y_{3}Fe_{5}O_{12}-Pt sandwich was then experimentally realized with V_{g} modulating the magnitude of the MECD signal. The obtained efficiency (the change ratio between the MECD voltage at ±V_{g}) reached 10%/(MV/cm) at 300 K. This prototype of magnon transistor offers an effective scheme to control magnon transport by a gate voltage.

[Clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes in pediatric progressive restrictive strabismus]

Objective: To investigate the clinical features, imaging manifestations, histopathological characteristics, and surgical outcomes in pediatric progressive restrictive strabismus. Methods: A retrospective case series study was conducted, including data from 9 cases (9 eyes) of pediatric progressive restrictive strabismus treated at Tianjin Eye Hospital from June 2017 to October 2022. The study compared the degree of globe protrusion in both eyes, changes in eyelid fissure height during internal and external rotation in the primary gaze, summarized clinical characteristics, and analyzed intraoperative conditions, surgical outcomes and postoperative histopathological results of strabismus correction surgery. Statistical analysis was performed using Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Friedman two-way analysis of variance. Results: All 9 cases involved unilateral onset, with 4 males and 5 females. Three cases affected the right eye, and six affected the left eye. Onset age ranged from 2 to 40 months. The degree of globe protrusion in the affected eyes was 13.00 (12.00, 13.00) mm for the right eye and 12.00 (12.00, 13.50) mm for the left eye, with no statistically significant difference (Z=-1.00, P=0.317). There were no significant changes in eyelid fissure height during internal rotation [8.00 (7.25, 8.00) mm], primary gaze [7.50 (7.00, 8.00) mm], and external rotation [8.00 (7.75, 8.00) mm] in the affected eyes (χ²=1.00, P=0.607). No apparent abnormalities were observed in head CT or MRI scans, serum, or immunological tests. However, orbital CT or MRI scans indicated thickening of different extraocular muscle bellies. Six out of nine cases underwent strabismus correction surgery, and postoperative examination revealed restriction in eye movement despite achieving orthophoria in the primary gaze. Tissue pathology of three cases showed increased collagen fiber proliferation in one, scattered bundles of smooth muscle fibers amid diffuse collagen fiber proliferation in another, and abnormal proliferation of striated muscle fibers with varying diameters, increased paired box (PAX)7-positive satellite cells expressing slow muscle myosin in the third case. Conclusions: Pediatric progressive restrictive strabismus presents with restrictive changes, without significant alterations in globe protrusion and eyelid fissure height. Imaging examinations reveal thickening of the extraocular muscle bellies in the affected eye. Although strabismus correction surgery improves eye position, postoperative eye movement remains restricted. Histopathological findings in some cases show abnormal proliferation of skeletal muscle fibers or collagen fibers.

[Update points for the 2022 edition of the European Association for the Study of Liver Diseases Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Hepatic Encephalopathy and comparison with China's 2018 edition guidelines]

The European Association for the Study of Liver Diseases issued the "Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Hepatic Encephalopathy" in 2022, which included recommendations for clinical diagnosis, assessment, treatment, management, and prevention. The Society's "Hepatic Encephalopathy Clinical Practice Guidelines in Chronic Liver Disease," which was last published in 2014, and the "Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatic Encephalopathy in Cirrhosis," which the Chinese Society of Hepatology, Chinese Medical Association, released in 2018, have certain differences and updates in terms of comparison to terminology, grading and classification, diagnosis, clinical evaluation and treatment, management, and prevention. Herein, the updated points of this guideline and the differences between it and our nation's guidelines are summarized in order to refine and understand the guiding role of the new version of the guideline for the clinical treatment of hepatic encephalopathy and provide aid for standardizing clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Conversion of THz refractive index variation to detectable voltage change realized by a graphene-based Brewster angle device

The Brewster effect has been previously reported as an essential mechanism for terahertz (THz) wave sensing application. However, generally in a sensing application, a complex rotation apparatus is required for detecting the slight change in Brewster angle. Here, we propose a graphene-based Brewster angle device operating at a specific terahertz frequency capable of sensing the refractive index at a fixed incident angle. In other words, our sensing device could avoid the impact of Brewster angle shift and eliminate the need for high-precision rotating equipment, which is usually required in traditional sensing applications. The conversion from the refractive index to a Volt-level detectable voltage roots from the tunability of graphene's Fermi level in the external electrical field. A linear correlation between the output voltage and the background refractive index is observed and theocratically analyzed. Furthermore, we present the improvement of our device in terms of sensing range and sensitivity by adjusting the permittivity of the dielectric substrate. As a demonstration of our proposed device, a detection range of 1.1-2.4 and a sensitivity of 20.06 V/RIU for refractive index is achieved on a high-resistance silicon substrate operating at 0.3 THz.

Chemometrics applied quantitative analysis of iron oxide mixtures by terahertz spectroscopy

A quantitative analysis method for corrosion products based on terahertz spectroscopy is proposed in this paper. Mixture samples consisting of three major corrosion products (magnetite, hematite, and goethite) were prepared in 51 different concentrations. The refractive index spectra measured by terahertz time-domain spectroscopy were projected to the 2D score diagram by performing principal component analysis. The Euclidean distances between the mixtures and pure analyte on the diagram were used to build a concentration prediction model. The results indicate that the established model can precisely predict the concentration of magnetite, which is essential for a stability evaluation of the corrosion system.

Enhancing the efficiency of graphene-based THz modulator by optimizing the Brewster angle

The gate-controllable electronical property of graphene provides a possibility of active tuning property for THz modulator. However, the common modulation technology which only depends on voltage cannot solve the problem of power consumption limitation in communication applications. Here, we demonstrated a Brewster angle-controlled graphene-based THz modulator, which could achieve a relatively high modulation depth with low voltage. First, we explored the complex relationships among the Brewster angles, reflection coefficients and the conductivities of graphene. Then, we further investigated the optimal incident angle selection based on the unusual reflection effect which occurs at Brewster angle. Finally, an improved scheme by dynamically adjusting the incident angle was proposed in this paper. It would make it possible that the modulator could achieve a modulation depth of more than 90% with a Fermi level as low as 0.2eV at any specific frequency in the range of 0.4THz-2.2THz. This research will help to realize a THz modulator with high-performance and ultra-low-power in quantities of applications, such as sensing and communication.

[A biography of infectious diseases: Hans Zinsser and his Rats, Lice and History]

Hans Zinsser, a well-known bacteriologist and immunologist in the United States in the early 20th century, made great advancement in the research of pathogen of typhus and its vaccine, with the epidemic typhus renamed after him. His masterpiece, Rats, Lice and History, teased out the co-evolutionary process of infectious diseases and their related organisms, focusing on specific cases and the development history of typhus. In this sense, he revealed the tremendous impact of infectious diseases on human history. He examined microorganisms and humans equally rather than simply from a human point of view. He analysed the pathological features of infectious diseases and provided professional insights into historical events of infectious diseases, such as the origin of syphilis and the plague of Athens, based on sufficient citations and references. He also advocated interpreting the history of infectious diseases with a holistic insight of history. His book, Rats, Lice and History, has been reprinted many times after its first publication, driving the following scholars to put the history of infectious diseases into a grand background of human development, enhancing the comprehension of ecology and politics and promoting the development of research in the history of diseases including life sciences, history and other disciplines.

[Using the external auditory canal skin graft of the healthy side to treat unilateral congenital aural atresia: preliminary results of clinical research]

Objective: To investigate whether the contralateral normal external auditory canal (EAC) skin graft can maintain the ear canal health after EAC reconstruction in unilateral congenital aural atresia (CAA) cases. Methods: A Zelen design randomized controlled study was used to collect unilateral CAA patients for EAC reconstruction prospectively (clinical trial registration number: ChiCTR2000032103). The patients were randomly divided into the control group and the trial group. The trial group used the contralateral normal EAC skin graft group (transplant part of the contralateral normal EAC skin to repair the atresia side for unilateral CAA patients), the control group all used scalp blade thick skin. We observed the EAC health and hearing results of the two groups after EAC reconstruction. Results: A total of 13 cases were enrolled from July 2020 to August 2021. There were eight patients in the trial group, including six males and two females, with an average age of 22.3 years (14-36 years). There were two patients with CAA on the left and six patients on the right. The average follow-up time was 8.8 months (4-14 months). There were five patients in the control group, all cases were male with an average age of 16.2 years (12-20 years). There were four patients with CAA on the left and one patient on the right. The average follow-up time was 7.0 months (2-14 months). In the trial group, eight cases of reconstructed EAC epithelium were healthy, one patient had cicatricial stenosis of EAC opening and lateralization of the tympanic membrane. The other patient had cicatricial stenosis of reconstructed EAC, this case also had scar hyperplasia of the contralateral EAC opening but recovered after soft packing and triamcinolone acetonide injection treatment. The healthy side EAC of the rest trial group had no scarring stenosis or local bone hyperplasia during long-term follow-up. In the control group, one patient was lost to follow-up and the other four patients had dry ears of reconstructed EAC, but easily to form crusts and needed to be cleaned repeatedly, one patient had lateralization of the tympanic membrane, the EAC epithelium was not healthy for long-term follow-up. The incidence of complications related to EAC reconstruction was lower than previous studies (χ²=5.55, P=0.018), and the average postoperative Air-Bone Gap increased (18.8±10.0)dB. Conclusion: By optimizing the EAC reconstruction technology, the health of the reconstructed EAC is improved compared with the previous study. After active intervention and treatment, there should be no scarring stenosis or local bone hyperplasia on the contralateral side EAC.

[Clinical study of selection of the upper instrumented vertebra at one level caudal to upper end vertebra in patients with Lenke 5C adolescent idiopathic scoliosis]

Objective: To investigate whether the upper instrumented vertebra (UIV) can be selected at one level caudal to upper end vertebra (UEV) in Lenke type 5C adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients. Methods: Total of 28 Lenke 5C AIS patients who underwent selective posterior fusion in Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School from September 2013 to September 2015 were included. There were 4 males and 24 females, with an age of (15.0±2.0) years, the Risser sign was graded 2-5. The following imaging parameters were measured on standing full spine X-ray before, immediately after the surgery and at the last follow-up: thoracolumbar/lumbar (TL/L) Cobb angle, coronal balance, UIV translation, lower instrumented vertebra (LIV) translation, UIV tilt, LIV tilt, and thoracic apical vertebral translation (T-AVT), lumbar apical vertebral translation (L-AVT). The patients were divided into two groups: decompensation group (n=6) and non-decompensation group (n=22). Radiographic parameters and Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-22 scores were compared between the two groups. Results: Six cases (21.4%) had proximal decompensation at the last follow-up. There were no significant differences in Risser grade(3.8±1.0 vs 3.6±1.6), baseline thoracic Cobb angle(25.8°±2.2° vs 26.3°±6.4°) and TL/L Cobb angle(43.7°±3.4° vs 45.2°±6.5°) between the two groups (all P>0.05). However, the baseline lumbar/thoracic apical vertebra translation (L-T AVT ratio) was significantly higher in patients with proximal decompensation (6.3±1.3 vs 4.0±2.0, P=0.048). Conclusion: Selecting UIV at one level caudal to UEV, would not increase the incidence of proximal decompensation in Lenke 5C AIS patients with Risser higher than grade 2, the smaller baseline L-T AVT ratio, and with thoracic compensatory curve over 15°, and can obtain satisfactory clinical results.

[Occurrence of rod fracture and salvage methods after primary surgery of the congenital lumbosacral deformity associated with sacral agenesis]

Objective: To analyze the occurrence of rod fracture after surgery for lumbosacral deformity associated sacral agenesis and discuss the relevant salvage methods. Methods: The clinical records of 19 patients who underwent surgical treatment for lumbosacral deformity associated sacral agenesis from January 2001 to January 2018 were retrospectively reviewed, including 11 boys and 8 girls. The average age was (9.6±5.2) years. The outcomes of surgical correction and internal fixation were evaluated by postoperative regular follow-up. We also recorded the time and position of rod fracture occurrence. The Cobb angle, coronal balance and sagittal balance were measured and compared to analyze the corresponding salvage methods and revision outcomes. Results: Three patients encountered rod fracture during follow-up, so the incidence of rod fracture after surgery for lumbosacral deformity associated sacral agenesis was 15.8%(3/19). Based on their own conditions, we formulated the individualized strategy and performed the revision surgery through the posterior-only approach. The most critical step was abundant bone-grafting and fusion in the defected sacroiliac joint. After revision, the scoliotic Cobb angle improved in two patients (91.5° vs 47.5°, 49.0° vs 28.0°) and coronal balance improved in one patient (40.3 mm vs 24.3 mm). No complication reoccurred during follow-up. Conclusion: The rod fracture after surgery for lumbosacral deformity associated sacral agenesis is quite common, which is probably correlated with its unique deformed structure and biomechanical characteristics. The individualized salvage methods and adequate bone-grafting and fusion for the defected sacroiliac joint will guarantee the reconstruction and maintenance of spine balance after revision.

[Correction of severe cup ears using postauricular tongue-shaped flap combined with deep fascial suspension]

Objective: To investigate the effect and satisfaction of using the postauricular tongue-shaped flap combined with deep fascia suspension in correcting severe cup ear malformation. Methods: Between August 2018 and November 2019, nine cases (10 ears) of Tanzer type Ⅲ severe cup ear malformation were treated with postauricular tongue-shaped flap combined with deep fascia suspension in this study. Results: Nine cases primary healed without hematoma, infection or skin necrosis, except one case with postoperative incision dehiscence. The cup ear deformity was significantly improved after the operation, the helix was intact, and the anti-helix was visible. The length, width, and circumference of the auricle were significantly enlarged three months following surgeries. There were no other complications except 1 patient recurrence 12 months after surgery. The patients were highly satisfied with the results of the surgery. Conclusions: Although the aesthctic of the reconstructed auricle is insufficient, this new technology makes full use of the autologous auricle tissue to correct severe cup ear malformation with good results.

[Analysis of BK virus infection in kidney transplant recipients]

Objective: To compare the infection of BK virus in the recipients of living donor(LD) kidney transplant and deceased donor(DD) kidney transplant. Methods: A total of 911 recipients who underwent kidney transplantation in the Organ Transplantation Research Institute of the 8th Medical Center of the People's Liberation Army General Hospital from January 2015 to August 2019 were enrolled in this study. The DNA copies of BK virus in urine and peripheral blood of kidney transplant recipients were detected by real-time quantitative PCR. The patients were divided into LD group (n=255) and DD group (n=656). BK virus infection in recipients with DD kidney transplant were compared with that in recipients of LD kidney transplant. Results: The BK virus positive rate in the urine of all subjects was 13.06%(119/911), and that in blood was 2.96% (27/911). The positive rate of BK virus in urine after kidney transplantation was significantly higher than that in blood(P<0.000 1). The positive rate in urine was 9.02% (23/255) in LD group, which was significantly lower than that of 14.63% (96/656) in DD group in the same period (χ(2)=5.097, P=0.012); The positive rate of BK virus infection in relatives group was 0.78% (2/255), which was significantly lower than that of 3.81% (25/656) in DD group (χ(2)=5.849, P=0.007). Conclusions: There was a significant difference in the infection rate of BK virus between the LD and DD group. The incidence of BK virus infection in kidney transplant recipients from DD was higher than that of from LD kidney transplant recipients.

Gene Mutation Spectrum of Thalassemia Among Children in Yunnan Province

Background: Thalassemia is an autosomal genetic disorder, found throughout the world. It is still not treatable and create socio economic problems. In this study, we investigated the prevalence and spectrum features of thalassemia in Yunnan Province, the southwestern area of China. During 2014-2018, a total of 3,539 suspected thalassemia children were detected with α- and β-thalassemia mutations by gap-Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and reverse dot blot (RDB) analysis in Kunming Children's Hospital. Results: Of these patients, 1,130 were diagnosed thalassemia gene carriers with a carrying rate of 31.92%. Among them, α-thalassemia was 43.63%, β-thalassemia was 53.98%, cases with both α- and β- thalassemia was 2.39%. In α-thalassemia patients, the most common mutations was -^SEA/αα (52.13%), followed by -α^3.7/αα (27.79%), hemoglobin H disease (18.46%), and -α^4.2/αα (1.62%). Fifteen gene mutations and 30 genotypes were identified in β-thalassemia patients, with the five most common mutations CD17 (A>T) (29.51%), CD41-42 (-TTCT) (27.87%), IVS-II-654 (C>T) (14.92%), CD26 (G>A) (6.89%), and CD26/CD27 (2.62%) accounting for 81.81% of the β-globin gene mutations. Furthermore, we founded two rare mutations CD34 (TGG → TAG) and Int in Chinese populations. Conclusions: Our results suggested that the prevalence and gene mutation spectrum of thalassemia display obviously heterogeneity among children in Yunnan Province. The findings provide the valuable information for premarital and pre-pregnancy screening, prenatal diagnostic services, and designing appropriate prevention programs to control thalassemia for future in this area.

Research Progress and Forensic Identification of Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy

Abstract

With the rapid development of the social economy in China, the incidence of diseases caused by excessive drinking is gradually increasing as well. Alcoholic cardiomyopathy refers to long-term high intake of ethanol, and has typical dilated cardiomyopathy characteristics, such as, hemodynamic changes, symptoms, signs, and morphological features. It is a kind of cardiomyopathy that excludes other causes of dilated cardiomyopathy. Due to the lack of specific pathological changes, the forensic pathological identification of alcoholic cardiomyopathy can only be based on the patient's medical history and by ruling out other causes of cardiomyopathy. This paper reviews the pathogenesis and forensic identification of alcoholic cardiomyopathy in order to provide reference for forensic pathologists and clinicians.

[Correlation study of peripheral blood inflammatory factors in patients with sudden deafness]

Objective:The aim of this study is to compare the difference of inflammatory factors in peripheral blood between sudden deafness patients and normal people, and to evaluate the predictive value of inflammatory factors in hearing recovery of sudden deafness patients. Method:Seventy-two inpatients with sudden deafness and 19 healthy persons were included. At the beginning of treatment in our hospital, audiometry was performed and peripheral blood was collected. The levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17α, TGF-β1 and TNF-α in peripheral blood were detected by ELISA. The treatment was intravenous steroid（not applied if patients with contraindication of systemic steroid application）+ intratympanic steroid injection+ microcirculation improvement or neurotrophic therapy+ hyperbaric oxygen. At the end of the treatment, audiometry was performed again. A total of 26 patients were collected to test the levels of inflammatory factors in peripheral blood again at the end of the treatment. Result:The mean levels of inflammatory factors IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17α, TGF-β1 and TNF-α in peripheral blood of patients were （2.66±9.57） pg/ml, （4.71±6.91） pg/ml, （19.33±32.27） pg/ml, （50 018.37±14 660.72） pg/ml, （1.52±2.40） pg/ml, respectively. And the level of these five inflammatory factors in normal persons were （3.61±9.82） pg/ml, （3.58±4.49） pg/ml, （11.64±13.29） pg/ml, （45 199.98±11 956.09） pg/ml，（1.09±1.08） pg/ml respectively. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference between these two groups. A total of 45 cases were effective（hearing threshold increased ≥15 dB） and 27 cases were ineffective（hearing threshold increased<15 dB）. There was no significant difference in the levels of inflammatory factors between the two groups. Among 26 patients with blood samples before and after treatment, the level of TGF-β1 after treatment was significantly lower than that before treatment. Conclusion:The levels of these five inflammatory factors including IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17α, TGF-β1 and TNF-αin peripheral blood could not predict the recovery of sudden hearing loss. The role of inflammation in the development of sudden deafness needs further confirmation. TGF-β1 may be involved in the development of sudden deafness.

[Screening of periodontal and salivary parameters in patients with frequent acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease]

Objective: To screen the risk factors of patients with frequent acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by detecting the clinical indicators of periodontitis and the level of bacterial and inflammatory markers in saliva. Methods: Thirty-eight COPD patients in their stable period were recruited and detected from Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital,Capital Medical University during December 2016 to May 2017. The periodontal index were recorded. The levels of inflammatory factors in saliva samples were examined by using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The bacteria composition in the saliva samples were identified by using 16SrRNA gene pyrosequencing. All patients were followed up and monitored for acute exacerbation of COPD for 12 months. The patients were divided into frequent acute exacerbation group (≥2 times/year, n=10) and non frequent acute exacerbation group (<2 times/year, n=28). Results: In univariate analysis, the patients' average age of frequent acute exacerbation group (69.0±7.3) was significantly older than that of non-frequent acute exacerbation group (61.8±8.3) (P=0.02). The numbers of remaining teeth ≤26 [100% (10/10)] was significantly higher and plaque index ≤2.5 (2/10) in frequent acute exacerbation group was significantly lower compared with the remaining teeth ≤26 [43% (12/28)] and the plaque index ≤2.5 [71% (21/28)] in non-frequent acute exacerbation group (P=0.02, P=0.01). The proportions of salivary inflammatory factors interleukin-6 (IL-6) level ≤60 ng/L (10%),C-reactive protein (CRP) level ≤1 550 μg/L (30%), matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8) level ≤140 μg/L (30%) and fibrinogen level ≤90 mg/L (30%) in frequent acute exacerbation group were significantly lower compared with salivary inflammatory factors IL-6 level ≤60 ng/L (71%),CRP level ≤1 550 μg/L (71%), MMP-8 level ≤140 μg/L (86%) and fibrinogen level ≤90 mg/L (71%) in non-frequent acute exacerbation group (P<0.05). The differences of relative abundances of salivary bacteria,such as species of Chloroflexi, Anaerolineae, Anaeroales, Corynebacteriales, Anaerolineaceae, Tissierellaceae, Leptotrichiaceae, Corynebacteriaceae, Leptotrichia, Moryella, Lachnoanaerobaculum and Corynebacterium between frequent acute exacerbation group and non-frequent acute exacerbation group were significantly different (P<0.05). In multivariate logistics regression analysis,the level of IL-6 >60 ng/L and the relative abundance of Corynebacteriales >0.2 had significant difference (P<0.05). Conclusions: The level of IL-6 and the relative abundance of Corynebacteriales might be the markers of frequent acute exacerbation in COPD patients.

[Optical properties of computer aided design and computer aided manufactured materials for veneer restorations]

Objective: To investigate the translucency parameters (TP) and the color parameters of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) materials for veneer restorations in order to guide clinical practice. Methods: Eleven groups of CAD/CAM materials (A2 shade) were included in this study: IPS e.max CAD HT/LT, IPS Empress CAD HT/LT, Lava(TM) Ultimate HT/LT, VITA SUPRINITY HT/T, VITA ENAMIC HT/T, VITABLOCS Mark Ⅱ, and were named as Group A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K. Each material was designed and milled to disk-shaped specimens (10.0 mm×8.0 mm×0.7 mm) (n=6). The specimens were polished with silicon carbide paper and the thickness of specimens were adjusted into (0.60±0.03) mm. The color parameters of specimens were individually measured with the colorimeter against black and white ceramic tiles background to obtain the TP values. The color parameters of the specimens against the composite resin background were also measured and the color differences (ΔE values) between specimens and the A2 shade tab were calculated. Results: One-way ANOVA showed that the translucency parameters of the 11 groups of materials were statistically significant (F=253.69, P<0.05). The ΔE values of CAD/CAM material groups ranged from 1.78 to 4.12 (ΔE values<5.5). Conclusions: The microstructure of CAD/CAM materials and the types of material translucency influence the optical properties. The CAD/CAM materials in this experiment have achieved color matching with the A2 shade tab.

[The effects of postauricular injection of methylprednisolone on medium-high frequency sudden hearing loss]

Objective:To study the effects of postauricular injection of methylprednisolone on medium-high frequency sudden hearing loss.Method:The data of 45 patients with invalid treatment who were diagnosed as medium-high frequency sudden hearing loss were retrospectively studied. They were divided into postauricular injection group and non-postauricular injection group. The treatment efficiency and hearing improvement at each frequency were compared between the two groups.Result:The improvements of hearing threshold in the non-postauricular injection group were(6.30±5.00)dB HL,(3.80±5.52)dB HL,(5.35±5.50)dB HL,(15.60±11.84)dB HL,(19.60±13.46)dB HL,(15.40±12.90)dB HL at 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000 and 8000Hz, respectively. The hearing improvements of the postauricular injection group were (5.35±6.22)dB HL,(2.50±3.00)dB HL,(4.65±6.60)dB HL,(23.75±10.75)dB HL,(25.75±11.73)dB HL,(30.50±14.50)dB HL at 250, 500,1000,2000,4000 and 8000Hz, respectively. There were significant differences between the two groups in hearing improvements at 2000-8000Hz. The treatment effective rates were 44% and 80% for the non-postauricular injection group and postauricular injection group respectively, which showed a significant difference(χ²=8.385P<0.05).Conclusion:Postauricular injection of methylprednisolone as a remedy treatment is safe and effective for sudden hearing loss in middle and high frequency.

[Research Progress on Postmortem Interval Estimation by Vitreous Humor]

Postmortem interval （PMI） estimation is one of the most challenging problems in the field of forensic science. Vitreous humor is a hotspot which has been used for PMI estimation and postmortem chemical analysis in forensic pathology. In order to provide novel perspectives for the future research of PMI estimation using vitreous humor, the comparison between vitreous humor with other common body fluids, the effect of temperature on vitreous humor, vitreous humor detection method and data fitting method have been reviewed in this paper.

[Application of Mixed-effect Model in PMI Estimation by Vitreous Humor]

OBJECTIVES

To test the changes of the potassium （K⁺） and magnesium （Mg²⁺） concentrations in vitreous humor of rabbits along with postmortem interval （PMI） under different temperatures, and explore the feasibility of PMI estimation using mixed-effect model.

METHODS

After sacrifice, rabbit carcasses were preserved at 5 ℃, 15 ℃, 25 ℃ and 35 ℃, and 80-100 μL of vitreous humor was collected by the double-eye alternating micro-sampling method at every 12 h. The concentrations of K⁺ and Mg²⁺ in vitreous humor were measured by a biochemical-immune analyser. The mixed-effect model was used to perform analysis and fitting, and established the equations for PMI estimation. The data detected from the samples that were stoned at 10 ℃, 20 ℃ and 30 ℃ with 20, 40 and 65 h were used to validate the equations of PMI estimation.

RESULTS

The concentrations of K⁺ and Mg²⁺ [f（x,y）] in vitreous humor of rabbits under different temperature increased along with PMI （x）. The relative equations of K⁺ and Mg²⁺ concentration with PMI and temperature under 5 ℃~35 ℃ were f_K⁺（x,y）=3.413 0+0.309 2 x+0.337 6 y+0.010 83 xy-0.002 47 x² （P<0.000 1）, and f_Mg²⁺（x,y）=0.745 6+0.006 432 x+0.033 8 y （P<0.000 1）, respectively. It was proved that the time of deviation for PMI estimation by K⁺ and Mg²⁺ was in 10 h when PMI was between 0 to 40 h, and the time of deviation was in 21 h when PMI was between 40 to 65 h.

CONCLUSIONS

the ambient temperature range of 5 ℃-35 ℃, the mixed-effect model based on temperature and vitreous humor substance concentrations can provide a new method for the practical application of vitreous humor chemicals for PMI estimation.

[The basic study and clinical progress of auditory implants treatment of conductive hearing loss]

In recent years, with the emergence and clinical application of a series of artificial auditory implantation technologies, surgically hard-treated conductive hearing loss treatment has made great progress and development. In this paper, research progress of bone conduction implant aids and middle ear implant devices treatment of conductive hearing loss are reviewed.

Effects of Oridonin on growth performance and oxidative stress in broilers challenged with lipopolysaccharide

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of oridonin (ORI) on growth performance and antioxidant capacity in broiler chickens that were repeatedly challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). A total of 384 one-day-old male Arbor Acre broiler chickens were randomly assigned to 8 treatments with 6 replicate cages per treatment and 8 birds per replicate. There were 4 dietary treatments: the control group (birds fed the basal diet), the ORI 50 group, the ORI 80 group, and the ORI 100 group (the basal diet supplemented with 50, 80, and 100 mg/kg oridonin, respectively). Broilers were intraperitoneally injected with either 250 μg/kg BW LPS or an equivalent amount of sterile saline at 16, 18, and 20 d of age. LPS decreased the average daily weight gain (ADG), the average daily feed intake (ADFI), and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) of broiler chickens (P < 0.05); oridonin supplementation had no effects on performance whether before or after LPS injection (P > 0.05). LPS stimulation increased the relative weight of the spleen and bursa (P < 0.05); oridonin inclusion markedly attenuated the increased spleen index (P < 0.05). Additionally, the LPS-induced increases in the concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) and decreases in activities of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and catalase (CAT) were dramatically attenuated by oridonin in both the serum and liver (P < 0.05). Furthermore, LPS down-regulated the mRNA expressions of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), copper and zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD), manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx1), and CAT in the liver (P < 0.05), However, oridonin inclusion increased the liver mRNA expression levels of Nrf2, Cu/Zn-SOD, Mn-SOD, CAT, and GPx1 (P < 0.05). It was concluded that the dietary oridonin supplementation at an optimum dose of 100 mg/kg improves the antioxidant capacity in broilers, as evidenced by the decrease in MDA and the increase in total SOD activities and mRNA expression levels of the liver antioxidant genes, although the effects on growth performance was negligible.

Effects of CYP3A5 and CYP2D6 genetic polymorphism on the pharmacokinetics of diltiazem and its metabolites in Chinese subjects

PURPOSE

To assess the possibility of using CYP2D6 10 +/- CYP3A5*3 as biomarkers to predict the pharmacokinetics of diltiazem and its two metabolites among healthy Chinese subjects. METHODS 41 healthy Chinese were genotyped for CYP3A5 3 and CYP2D6 10, and then received a single oral dose of diltiazem hydrochloride capsules (300 mg). Multiple blood samples were collected over 48 h, and the plasma concentrations of diltiazem, N-desmethyl diltiazem and desacetyl diltiazem were determined by HPLC-MS/MS. The relationships between the genotypes and pharmacokinetics were investigated.

RESULTS

The pharmacokinetics of diltiazem, N-desmethyl diltiazem were not significantly affected by both CYP3A5 3 and CYP2D6*10 alleles. However, the systemic exposure of the pharmacologyically active metabolites, desacetyl diltiazem, was 2-fold higher in CYP2D6 10/10 genotype carriers than in 1/10 or 1/1 ones (AUC(o-inf) of CYP2D6 1/1, 1/10 and 10/10 are 398.2 +/- 162.9, 371,0 69.2 and 726.2 +/- 468.1 respectively, p <0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Two of the most frequent alleles, CYP3A5 3 and CYP2D6 10, among Chinese do not have major impacts on the disposition of diltiazem and N-desmethyl diltiazem. However, the desacetyl diltiazem showed 2-fold accumulation in individuals with CYP2D6 10/10 genotype. Despite this, the effect of genotype of CYP2D6 on clinical outcome of diltiazem treatment is expected to be limited.

Fatty acid composition in breast milk and serum phospholipids of healthy term Chinese infants during first 6 weeks of life

AIM

To compare the fatty acid (FA) pattern in early and mature breast milk with that in plasma phospholipids of cord blood and breast-fed infants.

METHODS

Forty-five mother-infant pairs from western Shanghai were studied. All infants, born at term with normal weight and length, were examined at birth and days 5 and 42. FA was analyzed by capillary gas-liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

Cord blood showed higher concentration of long-chain polyunsaturated FA (LCPUFA) but lower saturated (SFA) and monounsaturated (MUFA) FA than postnatal infants' plasma. SFA decreased with age in the infants, but MUFA and linoleic acid (LA, 18:2omega6) increased. LCPUFA were lower in the plasma of 5-day-old infants than in cord blood, but LA was 80%, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, 18:3omega3) 33% and the ratio omega-6/omega-3 42% higher. At day 42, LA increased further, LCPUFA remained similar, and was in breast milk lower than at day 5, while ALA and gamma-linolenic acid (18:3omega6) were higher. The activity index of desaturases indicated high Delta9 activity in breast milk and high activity of Delta5 desaturase in the infants.

CONCLUSION

Breast milk FA composition changed markedly from day 5 to 42 with increasing correlation to infants' plasma. Calculation of desaturase activities suggested high capacity of LCPUFA synthesis.

Mechanical characterization of cellulosic thecal plates in dinoflagellates by nanoindentation

Dinoflagellates constitute an important group of microorganisms. Symbiotic dinoflagellates are responsible for the primary production of coral reef ecosystems and the phenomenon of their demise is known as "coral bleaching." Blooming of the planktonic dinoflagellates is the major cause of "red tides." Many dinoflagellates have prominent membrane-bound thecal plates at their cell cortices. These thecal plates have high cellulose content and are biologically fabricated into various shapes. However, the mechanical properties of theca have not previously been characterized; understanding these properties, including hardness and elastic modulus, will give insights into the ecological significance and biotechnological potential of bio-fabricated structures. A series of nanoindentation tests were performed on various locations of cellulosic thecal plates isolated from the dinoflagellates Alexandrium catenella and Lingulodinium polyedrum. Despite having transparent properties, thecal plates possess mechanical properties comparable to softwood cell walls, implicating their role as a protective cell covering. Consistent measurements were obtained when indentation was performed at various locations, which contrasts with the high variability of cellulose microfibers from plant sources. The present study demonstrated the novel properties of this potential new source of cellulose.

Constitutive expression of human angiostatin in Pichia pastoris by high-density cell culture

A high-density cell culture method to produce human angiostatin has been successfully established by constitutive expression of the protein in Pichia pastoris. The fermentation was carried out in a 20 l bioreactor with a 10 l working volume, using a high-density cell culture method by continuously feeding with 50% glycerol-0.8% PTM4 to the growing culture for 60 h at 30 degrees C. Dissolved oxygen level was maintained at 25-30% and pH was controlled at 5 by the addition of 7 M NH4OH. Angiostatin was constitutively expressed during the fermentation by linking its expression to the P. pastoris constitutive GAP promoter (pGAP). But after 36 h of fermentation, the peak biomass growth was 305 as measured by absorption of 600 nm, while the peak angiostatin expression was 176 mg/l. Similar to the product expressed from inducible system [24], angiostatin produced from constitutive system also inhibited the angiogenesis on the CAM and suppressed the growth of B16 melanoma in C57BL/6J mouse. The above results suggest that GAP promoter is more efficient than AOX1 promoter for the expression of angiostatin in P. pastoris by shake flask culture or high-density cell fermentation and is likely to be an alternative to AOX1 promoter in large-scale expression of angiostatin and other heterologous proteins.

Influence of naturally occurring variations in maternal care on prepulse inhibition of acoustic startle and the medial prefrontal cortical dopamine response to stress in adult rats

In rats, naturally occurring variations in maternal care contribute to the development of individual differences in the behavioral and neuroendocrine responses to stress during adulthood. The dopamine (DA) projection to the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) plays an important role in mediating stress responsivity and is thought to be involved also in regulating sensorimotor gating. In the present study, we compared prepulse inhibition (PPI) of acoustic startle as well as the left and right mPFC DA stress responses in the adult offspring of high- and low-licking/grooming (LG) dams. Our data indicate that the offspring of low-LG animals are impaired on measures of PPI compared with high-LG animals. We also observed in low-LG animals a significant blunting of the mPFC DA stress responses that was lateralized to the right hemisphere, whereas in high-LG animals, the left and right mPFC DA stress responses were equally attenuated. Although mPFC levels of DA transporter did not differ between the two groups of animals, mPFC levels of catechol-O-methyl transferase immunoreactivity of low-LG animals were significantly lower than those of high-LG animals. These data provide evidence that variations in maternal care can lead to lasting changes in mPFC DA responsivity to stress and suggest the possibility that such changes in mesocorticolimbic DA function can also lead to deficits in sensorimotor gating.

Effects of dextromethorphan on nocturnal behavior and brain c-Fos expression in adolescent rats

Dextromethorphan, an antitussive widely available over-the-counter, is abused, mostly by teenagers at high doses. In our previous report, a high dose of dextromethorphan activated the midbrain dopamine neurons of adolescent rats. In the present study, we performed c-Fos immunohistochemistry in the dopaminergic terminal regions of adolescent rat brain after the intraperitoneal administration of dextromethorphan at different doses (0, 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg), and also examined the effects on nocturnal behavior. The results showed that dextromethorphan increased c-Fos expression dose dependently in the anterior cingulate cortex, caudate putamen, nucleus accumbens, and central amygdala. Significant ataxia occurred and both locomotor and rearing activity decreased immediately after the dextromethorphan injection. We conclude that the neurons in the reward pathway of the adolescent rat brain appear to be activated by a single injection of dextromethorphan, and that activation of this pathway by dextromethorphan may correlate with the behavioral effects and abuse potential of the drug.

Versatile two-phase solvent system for alkaloid separation by high-speed counter-current chromatography

In order to find a versatile high speed counter-current chromatography solvent system that can be used as a general prefractionation system for most alkaloids, the crude extracts of five Chinese traditional medicinal herbs, Cortex phellodendri, Semen strychni, green tea, Sophora flavescens ait, and Datura mete L. were resolved. All separations were performed only with a two-phase system composed of CHCl3-CH3OH-water (4:3:2). The water had different acidities controlled by adding NaH2PO4 or HCl to each sample. The fractionated components were identified by thin-layer chromatography, which confirmed this solvent system was versatile and very useful for the separation of alkaloids.

Dextromethorphan increases tyrosine hydroxylase mRNA in the mesencephalon of adolescent rats

Dextromethorphan (DM), an antitussive widely available in over-the-counter, has been abused mostly in teenage groups at high doses. To examine effects of DM on the reward pathway, we injected a high dose of DM (40 mg/kg; intraperitoneally) into the adolescent rat and measured tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) mRNA by in situ hybridization in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the substantia nigra (SN). Remarkable increases in the level of TH mRNA were observed in the VTA and SN 2 h after DM injection. Stereotyped behavior and ataxia increased, and rearing decreased by DM administration. These results suggest that DM-induced increase in TH mRNA expression in mesencephalon contribute to the reinforcing property and the behavioral effects of DM.

The effects of sensitization and hypersensitivity reaction on transepithelial antigen transport of rat nasal mucosa

METHODS

The prevalence of airway allergy is very high. The ways that antigen passes across the airway tract epithelial barrier are not well understood. This study uses a model antigen, horseradish peroxidase (HRP), to sensitize and challenge the respiratory tract in the rat model.

RESULTS

The results showed increases in HRP endosomes in nasal epithelial cells 5 minutes after HRP challenge in the sensitized rats compared with controls, which were further increased 30 minutes after HRP challenge, as well as with the paracellular region filled with HRP products. Meanwhile, mast cells were activated as shown by degranulation. Analysis of cell type showed that there were many more HRP endosomes in the nonciliated cells and there were many more nonciliated cells in the nasal mucosa of the sensitized rats.

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrate that sensitization promotes airway mucosal epithelial cells' uptake and transport of specific antigen and that mast cells may play certain roles in this process.

[Separation of standard proteins and actual samples using cross-axis counter current chromatography]

A system of m (12.5% PEG8000): m (25% K2HPO4) = 1:1 was used to separate two kinds of standard proteins, glycoprotein in Morchella esculenta (L.) and glycoprotein in Lycium barbarum (L.), the upper phase was used as stationary phase, and the lower phase was used as mobile phase. The revolution speed was 500 r/min and the flow rate was 60 mL/h. In comparing with high performance liquid chromatography, cross-axis counter current chromatography can increase load capacity without loss of resolution. The advantage of this method was verified, indicating that cross-axis counter current chromatography was a useful method for biopolymer separation.

Preparative isolation and purification of lutein from the microalga chlorella vulgaris by high-speed counter-current chromatography

High-speed counter-current chromatography (HSCCC) was applied to the isolation and purification of lutein from microalgae. Analytical HSCCC was used for the preliminary selection of a suitable solvent system composed of n-hexane-ethanol-water (4:3:1, v/v). Using the above solvent system, preparative HSCCC was successfully performed yielding lutein at 98% purity from 200 mg of the crude extract in a one-step separation.

Supercritical fluid extraction of catechins from Cratoxylum prunifolium dyer and subsequent purification by high-speed counter-current chromatography

Supercritical fluid extraction of tea catechins including epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG) and epicatechin-3-O-gallate (ECG) from Cratoxylum prunifolium Dyer was performed. The optimization of parameters was carried out using an analytical-scale supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) system designed in our laboratory. Then the extraction was scaled up by 100 times using a preparative SFE system under a set of optimized conditions of 40 degrees C, 25 MPa and modified CO2 with 80% ethanol aqueous solution. The combined yield of EGCG and ECG reached about 1 mg per 1 g of tea leaves where the solubility was near 1.4 x 10(-4) mass fraction of CO2 fluid. EGCG and ECG of high purity (>98%) were obtained from the crude preparative extract by high-speed counter-current chromatography.

Metabolites of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, an endophytic fungus in Artemisia mongolica

A new antimicrobial metabolite, named colletotric acid (1), was isolated from a liquid culture of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, an endophytic fungus colonized inside the stem of Artemisia mongolica. The structure was determined using spectroscopic methods (EIMS and FABMS,(1)H and (13)C NMR, (1)H-(1)H COSY, HMBC, and HMQC). Compound 1 inhibited the growth of Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcusaureus, and Sarcina lutea with minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 25, 50, and 50 microg/mL, respectively, and the crop pathogenic fungus Helminthosporium sativum (MIC: 50 microg/mL).

Modeling of a rotary motor driven by an anisotropic piezoelectric composite laminate

This paper proposes an analytical model of a rotary motor driven by an anisotropic piezoelectric composite laminate. The driving element of the motor is a three-layer laminated plate. A piezoelectric layer is sandwiched between two anti-symmetric composite laminae. Because of the material anisotropy and the anti-symmetric configuration, torsional vibration can be induced through the inplane strain actuated by the piezoelectric layer. The advantages of the motor are its magnetic field immunity, simple structure, easy maintenance, low cost, and good low-speed performance. In this paper, the motor is considered to be a coupled dynamic system. The analytical model includes the longitudinal and torsional vibrations of the laminate and the rotating motion of the rotor under action of contact forces. The analytical model can predict the overall characteristics of the motor, including the modal frequency and the response of motion of the laminate, the rotating speed of the rotor, the input power, the output power, and the efficiency of the motor. The effects of the initial compressive force, the applied voltage, the moment of rotor inertia, and the frictional coefficient of the contact interface on the characteristics of the motor are simulated and discussed. A selection of the numerical results from the analytical model is confirmed by experimental data.

Inhibitory mechanism of the CXCR4 antagonist T22 against human immunodeficiency virus type 1 infection

We recently reported that a cationic peptide, T22 ([Tyr(5,12), Lys(7)]-polyphemusin II), specifically inhibits human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection mediated by CXCR4 (T. Murakami et al., J. Exp. Med. 186:1389-1393, 1997). Here we demonstrate that T22 effectively inhibits replication of T-tropic HIV-1, including primary isolates, but not of non-T-tropic strains. By using a panel of chimeric viruses between T- and M-tropic HIV-1 strains, viral determinants for T22 susceptibility were mapped to the V3 loop region of gp120. T22 bound to CXCR4 and interfered with stromal-cell-derived factor-1alpha-CXCR4 interactions in a competitive manner. Blocking of anti-CXCR4 monoclonal antibodies by T22 suggested that the peptide interacts with the N terminus and two of the extracellular loops of CXCR4. Furthermore, the inhibition of cell-cell fusion in cells expressing CXCR4/CXCR2 chimeric receptors suggested that determinants for sensitivity of CXCR4 to T22 include the three extracellular loops of the coreceptor.

Effect of substance P on the short-circuit current of rat nasal mucosal epithelium

Rats were sensitized by intranasal application of toluene diisocyanate as a nasal allergy model. By means of the Using chamber technique, rat nasal epithelial short-circuit current (Isc) was measured. Enhanced Isc of the rat nasal mucosa resulted from stimulation of substance P (SP) in a dose-dependent manner that could be inhibited by pretreatment with NK1 receptor antagonist CP-96345, the H1 receptor antagonist pyrilamine, the H2 receptor antagonist ranitidine, and the neurotoxin tetrodotoxin, respectively, to different extents. The results indicate that SP is able to cause ion secretion of the nasal mucosal epithelium, perhaps by activating mast cells to release histamine. These data suggest that mast cells and sensory nerves participate in the regulation of SP-induced ion secretion during nasal allergy.

Separation and purification of 10-deacetylbaccatin III by high-speed counter-current chromatography

High-speed counter-current chromatography (HSCCC) was used for the separation and purification of 10-deacetylbaccatin III from the needle extract of Chinese yew (Taxus chinensis). The crude needle extract (500 mg/5 ml) was first separated with a two-phase solvent system composed of n-hexane-ethyl acetate-ethanol-water (2:5:2:5, v/v) and the partially purified fraction was again purified with a different solvent system composed of n-hexane-chloroform-methanol-water (5:25:34:20, v/v). HPLC analysis of the final fraction showed that the purity of 10-deacetylbaccatin (20 mg) was over 98%. The chemical structure was confirmed by fast atom bombardment MS and 1H NMR.

CXCR4 sequences involved in coreceptor determination of human immunodeficiency virus type-1 tropism. Unmasking of activity with M-tropic Env glycoproteins

The interaction of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) with CD4 and one of a cadre of chemokine receptors triggers conformational changes in the HIV-1 envelope (Env) glycoprotein that lead to membrane fusion. The coreceptor activity of the second extracellular loop of CXCR4, which is restricted to dual tropic and T-tropic strains, was insensitive to the removal of charged residues either singly or in combinations by alanine scanning mutagenesis or to the conversion of acidic residues to lysine. Conversion of Asp-187 to a neutral residue exclusively unmasked activity with M-tropic Env in fusion and infection experiments. Insertion of the D187V mutation into chimeras containing extracellular loop 2 of CXCR4 in a CXCR2 framework also resulted in the acquisition of M-tropic coreceptor activity. The independence of CXCR4 coreceptor activity from charged residues and the extension of its repertoire by removing Asp-187 suggest that this interaction is not electrostatic and that coreceptors have the potential to be utilized by a spectrum of Env, which may be masked by charged amino acids in extracellular domains. These findings indicate that the primary structural determinants of coreceptors that program reactivity with M-, dual, and T-tropic Env are surprisingly subtle and that relatively insignificant changes in CXCR4 can dramatically alter utilization by Env of varying tropism.

Multidimensional counter-current chromatographic system and its application

A multidimensional counter-current chromatographic system was set up for the first time with two sets of high-speed counter-current chromatography instruments. This system was successfully applied to the preparative separation of isorhamnetin, kaempferol and quercetin from crude flavone aglycones of Ginkgo biloba L. and Hippophae rhamnoides L. with a two-phase solvent system composed of chloroform-methanol-water (4:3:2, v/v/v).

Semi-preparative separation and purification of taxol analogs by high-speed countercurrent chromatography

High-speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC) was applied to the semi-preparative separation of taxol and its analogs, such as cephalomannine and 7-epi-10-deacetyltaxol from the extract of the bark of Taxus yunnannesis. The experiments were performed with a quaternary two-phase solvent system composed of n-hexane-thyl acetate-ethanol-water through two steps. In the first step, the four components were separated into two groups at a volume ratio of 1:1:1:1 and, in the second step, two components in each group were separated at different volume ratios of 3:3:2:3 or 4:4:3:4. The present method also allows consecutive injections with reproducible results. HPLC analysis showed that the purity of the four components obtained from a partially purified sample, containing taxol at 10%, ranged from 85 to 99%. The results indicated that HSCCC can be effectively used for the semi-preparative separation and purification of taxol and its analogs.