[Metabolic study of iron deposition based on magnetic resonance in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease]

Objective: To explore the relationship between liver iron deposition and steatosis in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) through MRI. Methods: 163 cases of liver biopsy underwent MRI examination. R2* was used to measure liver iron content. Dixon-based proton density fat fraction (PDFF) was used to measure liver fat content. One-way ANOVA, r-correlation, ROC curve, and others were used to assess the relationship between clinical case data, serological indices, and imaging results in accordance with the pathological results of the liver biopsy. Results: R2* gradually increased as the pathological steatosis grade rose. The R2* that corresponded to no steatosis (< 5%), mild steatosis (14.95%±8.55%), moderate steatosis (46.30%±9.32%), and severe steatosis (73.86%±6.35%) were 27.56±4.40, 31.06±5.95, 38.06±4.80, and 48.10±5.55 (P < 0.001), respectively. There was a positive correlation between R2* and liver steatosis content (r= 0.769, P < 0.05). The area under the ROC curve and cut-off value were 0.88 and 31.77, respectively, and there was no distinct relationship with liver inflammation or fibrosis. Conclusion: R2* can quantitatively and non-invasively evaluate liver iron deposition in patients with NAFLD. A distinct relationship exists between liver steatosis and iron deposition, and iron deposition tends to increase as the steatosis aggravates.

TGR5 agonist inhibits intestinal epithelial cell apoptosis via cAMP/PKA/c-FLIP/JNK signaling pathway and ameliorates dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis

Excessive apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) is a crucial cause of disrupted epithelium homeostasis, leading to the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC). The regulation of Takeda G protein-coupled receptor-5 (TGR5) in IEC apoptosis and the underlying molecular mechanisms remained unclear, and the direct evidence from selective TGR5 agonists for the treatment of UC is also lacking. Here, we synthesized a potent and selective TGR5 agonist OM8 with high distribution in intestinal tract and investigated its effect on IEC apoptosis and UC treatment. We showed that OM8 potently activated hTGR5 and mTGR5 with EC₅₀ values of 202 ± 55 nM and 74 ± 17 nM, respectively. After oral administration, a large amount of OM8 was maintained in intestinal tract with very low absorption into the blood. In DSS-induced colitis mice, oral administration of OM8 alleviated colitis symptoms, pathological changes and impaired tight junction proteins expression. In addition to enhancing intestinal stem cell (ISC) proliferation and differentiation, OM8 administration significantly reduced the rate of apoptotic cells in colonic epithelium in colitis mice. The direct inhibition by OM8 on IEC apoptosis was further demonstrated in HT-29 and Caco-2 cells in vitro. In HT-29 cells, we demonstrated that silencing TGR5, inhibition of adenylate cyclase or protein kinase A (PKA) all blocked the suppression of JNK phosphorylation induced by OM8, thus abolished its antagonizing effect against TNF-α induced apoptosis, suggesting that the inhibition by OM8 on IEC apoptosis was mediated via activation of TGR5 and cAMP/PKA signaling pathway. Further studies showed that OM8 upregulated cellular FLICE-inhibitory protein (c-FLIP) expression in a TGR5-dependent manner in HT-29 cells. Knockdown of c-FLIP blocked the inhibition by OM8 on TNF-α induced JNK phosphorylation and apoptosis, suggesting that c-FLIP was indispensable for the suppression of OM8 on IEC apoptosis induced by OM8. In conclusion, our study demonstrated a new mechanism of TGR5 agonist on inhibiting IEC apoptosis via cAMP/PKA/c-FLIP/JNK signaling pathway in vitro, and highlighted the value of TGR5 agonist as a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of UC.

[Survival analysis of long-term HIV/AIDS cases aged 15 years and over under antiretroviral treatment in Henan Province from 2002 to 2020]

Objective: To analyze the survival and influencing factors of HIV infections and AIDS cases (HIV/AIDS) aged 15 years and over who had received antiretroviral treatment (ART) for more than 10 years in Henan Province. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, data of HIV infections and AIDS cases in Henan province were collected from the AIDS Prevention and Control System between January 1, 2002 and December 31, 2020. This study included 20 256 participants alive after 10-year ART with complete baseline and follow-up information, such as demographic characteristics, CD4⁺T lymphocyte count and viral load. Cox proportional risk regression model was used to analyze influencing factors of HIV/AIDS survival. Results: A total of 20 256 participants were followed up for 82 738.2 person-years, with an average follow-up of 4.1 person-years, of which most cases were blood transmission (85.5%) and married (71.2%). The male to female ratio was 1∶1.06 and the age at 10 years of ART was (51.2±8.7) years old. About 88.5% of HIV/AIDS patients received ART in village/township treatment institutions. Overall, there were 2 030 deaths during this period, among which 1 897 were due to AIDS-related diseases (93.5%) and the case fatality rate was 9.4% (1 897/20 256). Cox proportional risk regression model showed that participants aged 40-54, 55-69, and ≥70 years had a higher risk of death compared to those aged 25-39, with adjusted HRs (95%CI) of 1.57 (1.19-2.08), 3.78 (2.86-4.99), and 6.17 (4.33-8.79), respectively. Participants with the initial CD4⁺T lymphocyte count about 200-349/μl and<200/μl had a higher risk of death compared to those with initial CD4⁺T lymphocyte count ≥350/μl, with adjusted HRs (95%CI) of 1.81 (1.61-2.04) and 3.64 (3.20-4.15), respectively. Participants with the initial viral load outcome ≥1 000 copies/ml had a higher risk of death compared to those with the initial viral load outcome<1 000 copies/ml, with adjusted HRs (95%CI) of 1.73 (1.52-1.97). Participants receiving the second-line ART had a lower risk of death compared to those receiving the first-line ART, with adjusted HRs (95%CI) of 0.12 (0.11-0.14). Conclusion: From 2002 to 2020, the survival rate of HIV/AIDS treated with ART for more than 10 years is high in Henan Province. Age, CD4⁺T lymphocyte count and viral load are influencing factors of HIV/AIDS survival.

[The core techniques of airway and circulation management in eye and ear-nose-throat anesthesia]

With the continuous update of anesthesia techniques, equipment and research field, the techniques and concepts of anesthesia in eye and ear-nose-throat (ENT) surgery are constantly optimized and developed. Eye and ENT anesthesia has its unique technical characteristics and problems. By reviewing related literature extensively and combining with our experience, this article analyzed and discussed the challenges of ENT anesthesia, such as difficult airway, airway hyperactivity, controlled hypotension and so on, as well as summarizing and evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of the techniques applied in ENT anesthesia.

[Studying the correlation between ferritin and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease]

Objective: To analyze the correlation between serum ferritin and steatosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Methods: Data of 167 cases who underwent liver biopsy in the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University were collected. Hydrogen proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy were performed within one week. The pathological results of liver biopsy were used as the gold standard to analyze the case data, serological indicators, magnetic resonance spectroscopy-proton density fat fraction. Results: Pathological monitoring result showed that the serum ferritin in patients without steatosis, and with mild, moderate and severe steatosis were (206.20 ± 189.83), (286.65 ± 200.80), (326.55 ± 214.71), (391.50 ± 184.93) ng/ml, respectively, P < 0.005. Serum ferritin was correlated to body mass index, PDFF, alanine aminotransferase, gamma glutamyltransferase, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein. The area under ​​the receiver operating characteristic curve with ferritin for the diagnosis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease was 0.716, and the optimal diagnostic threshold was 214.56 ng/ml. The sensitivity and specificity were 80.1%, and 68.8%, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the intralobular inflammation, fibrosis, and ferritin. Prussian blue iron staining had no apparent deposition of iron particles. Conclusion: Ferritin has significant positive correlation with the results of pathological and magnetic resonance imaging for liver steatosis. Therefore, it can be used as a non-invasive diagnostic method for liver steatosis evaluation.

[Analysis on mortality in HIV/AIDS cases aged 15 years and older under antiretroviral treatment in Henan province, 2002-2019]

Objective: To analyze the mortality in HIV/AIDS cases aged ≥15 years under antiretroviral treatment (ART) in Henan province from 2002 to 2019, and provide evidence for reducing the mortality rate of HIV/AIDS and AIDS prevention and treatment. Methods: Data of HIV/AIDS cases aged ≥15 years who received ART in Henan from 2002 to 2019 were obtained from "Infectious Disease Surveillance System - Basic Information on AIDS Prevention and Control". In this retrospective study, Cox proportional risk model was used to analyze the influencing factors for HIV/AIDS related deaths. Software SPSS 23.0 was used for statistical analysis. Results: From 2002 to 2019, a total of 72 986 HIV/AIDS cases aged ≥15 years received ART, in whom, 16 634 died during this period. Most of the death cases were aged ≥40 years old (68.5%,11 393/16 634), males (62.6%,10 419/16 634), infected through blood-borne transmission (71.7%,11 927/16 634), and farmers or migrant workers (91.7%,15 249/16 634). Most of the deaths were due to AIDS related diseases (73.7%, 12 261/16 634), and the case fatality rate was 16.8% (12 261/72 986). A total of 34.6% (4 237/12 261) of HIV/AIDS cases died of AIDS-related diseases in the first year of ART, and the cumulative survival rates at 10 and 18 years of ART were 78.3% and 71.8%, respectively. The proportion of the HIV/AIDS cases with baseline CD4⁺T lymphocyte (CD4) counts <200 cells/μl at age 15 years when ART started was 45.5% (30 432/66 898). Cox proportional risk regression model showed that, compared with the cases with baseline CD4 counts ≥350 cells/μl, the risk of death was 1.78 times higher than in the cases with CD4 counts <200 cells/μl (95%CI: 1.64-1.94) and 1.24 times higher in the cases with CD4 counts ≥200 cells/μl (95%CI: 1.13-1.36), respectively. The risk of death in symptomatic cases at baseline survey was 1.25 times higher than that in asymptomatic cases (95%CI: 1.16-1.35). The cases with a latest viral load ≥1 000 copies/ml had 7.09 times higher risk of death than those with a last viral load<1 000 copies/ml (95%CI: 6.65-7.54). Conclusions: The majority of HIV/AIDS deaths occurred in the cases aged ≥15 years receiving ART in Henan province during 2002-2019, who were infected through blood-borne transmission and farmers/migrant workers, and AIDS-related diseases were the main causes of the deaths. With the gradual implementation of ART policy, the high survival rate in HIV/AIDS cases can be maintained for a long time in Henan. To reduce the case fatality rate and improve the quality of life of HIV/AIDS patients, CD4 counts test should be further strengthened and eligible HIV/AIDS patients should be covered by standard ART in a timely manner.

P–392 Clinical outcomes of endometrium receptivity analysis(ERA) testing in patients with repeated IVF failures

Study question

Is ERA testing different between RIF patients with control group?

Summary answer

In RIF patients, there were more chances of non-receptive endometrium. ERA testing may be helpful for the patients with repeated IVF failure. What is known already: The endometrium receptivity analysis testing might have the ability to detect the implantation window. In repeat implantation failure patients, detecting of precisely implantation window may have some benefits.

Study design, size, duration

This was a single-center retrospective observational study. Two hundred and forty-nine patients who underwent ERA testing following frozen-thawed embryo transfer in our center were including in this study between January 2019 and May 2020.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

181 patients having unexplained repeated IVF failure (RIF group, at least tow implantation failure) and 68 patients having no experience with embryo transfer (Control group) who underwent ERA testing were including in this study. Both of Patients having a receptive (R) ERA and having a non-receptive (NR) ERA underwent a personalized embryo transfer (pET) on ERA. ERA results and clinical outcomes compared between RIF group and control group were analyzed by Chi-square test.

Main results and the role of chance

The proportion of R/NR results were 33:35 for the RIF group and 118:63 for the Control group, demonstrating the displacement of the window of implantation in patients with RIF. Our results revealed an endometrial factor in 51% RIF patients, which was significantly greater than the Control group 34.8% (P = 0.02). Among the patients with NR ERA result, there are not significantly difference in clinical pregnancy rate in the RIF group compared with control group (57.1%. vs. 61.9%). The clinical pregnancy rate of the patients with receptive ERA result also is comparable in both group (70.3% vs. 66.7%).

Limitations, reasons for caution

This is a retrospective, single center study with limited case number. There were may some bias with ERA testing errors.

Wider implications of the findings: In RIF patients, there were more chances of non-receptive endometrium. ERA testing may be helpful for the patients with repeated IVF failure. Larger randomized studies are required to validate these results.

Trial registration number

18MMHISO70e

Single-cell RNA sequencing identifies molecular targets associated with poor in vitro maturation performance of oocytes collected from ovarian stimulation

STUDY QUESTION

What is the transcriptome signature associated with poor performance of rescue IVM (rIVM) oocytes and how can we rejuvenate them?

SUMMARY ANSWER

The GATA-1/CREB1/WNT signalling axis was repressed in rIVM oocytes, particularly those of poor quality; restoration of this axis may produce more usable rIVM oocytes.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

rIVM aims to produce mature oocytes (MII) for IVF through IVM of immature oocytes collected from stimulated ovaries. It is not popular due to limited success rate in infertility treatment. Genetic aberrations, cellular stress and the absence of cumulus cell support in oocytes could account for the failure of rIVM.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

We applied single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to capture the transcriptomes of human in vivo oocytes (IVO) (n = 10) from 7 donors and rIVM oocytes (n = 10) from 10 donors. The effects of maternal age and ovarian responses on rIVM oocyte transcriptomes were also studied. In parallel, we studied the effect of gallic acid on the maturation rate of mouse oocytes cultured in IVM medium with (n = 84) and without (n = 85) gallic acid.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Human oocytes were collected from donors aged 28-41 years with a body mass index of <30. RNA extraction, cDNA generation, library construction and sequencing were performed in one preparation. scRNA-seq data were then processed and analysed. Selected genes in the rIVM versus IVO comparison were validated by quantitative real-time PCR. For the gallic acid study, we collected immature oocytes from 5-month-old mice and studied the effect of 10-μM gallic acid on their maturation rate.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

The transcriptome profiles of rIVM/IVO oocytes showed distinctive differences. A total of 1559 differentially expressed genes (DEGs, genes with at least 2-fold change and adjusted P < 0.05) were found to be enriched in metabolic processes, biosynthesis and oxidative phosphorylation. Among these DEGs, we identified a repression of WNT/β-catenin signalling in rIVM when compared with IVO oocytes. We found that oestradiol levels exhibited a significant age-independent correlation with the IVO mature oocyte ratio (MII ratio) for each donor. rIVM oocytes from women with a high MII ratio were found to have over-represented cellular processes such as anti-apoptosis. To further identify targets that contribute to the poor clinical outcomes of rIVM, we compared oocytes collected from young donors with a high MII ratio with oocytes from donors of advanced maternal age and lower MII ratio, and revealed that CREB1 is an important regulator. Thus, our study identified that GATA-1/CREB1/WNT signalling was repressed in both rIVM oocytes versus IVO oocytes and in rIVM oocytes of lower versus higher quality. Consequently we investigated gallic acid, as a potential antioxidant substrate in human rIVM medium, and found that it increased the mouse oocyte maturation rate by 31.1%.

LARGE SCALE DATA

Raw data from this study can be accessed through GSE158539.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

In the rIVM oocytes of the high- and low-quality comparison, the number of samples was limited after data filtering with stringent selection criteria. For the oocyte stage identification, we were unable to predict the presence of oocyte spindle, so polar body extrusion was the only indicator.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

This study showed that GATA-1/CREB1/WNT signalling was repressed in rIVM oocytes compared with IVO oocytes and was further downregulated in low-quality rIVM oocytes, providing us the foundation of subsequent follow-up research on human oocytes and raising safety concerns about the clinical use of rescued oocytes.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

This work was supported by the Collaborative Research Fund, Research Grants Council, C4054-16G, and Research Committee Funding (Research Sustainability of Major RGC Funding Schemes), The Chinese University of Hong Kong. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.

[Urinary retinol binding protein and β2-microglobulin were associated with urinary albumin to creatinine ratio and renal function in hospitalized diabetic patients]

Objective: To explore the associations of urinary retinol binding protein (RBP) and β₂-microglobulin (β₂-MG) with urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR) and renal function in hospitalized patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: A total of 1 030 Chinese patients with T2DM were included in this study. The subjects were divided into the UACR normal group (<30 mg/g), microalbuminuria group (30-300 mg/g) and macroalbuminuria group (>300 mg/g). Patients with normal UACR were further divided into two groups according to the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR): the eGFR low group (<90 ml·min^-1·1.73m^-2) and the normal eGFR group (≥90 ml·min^-1·1.73m^-2). Urine RBP and β₂-MG levels among the groups were compared. Multiple linear regression analyses were applied to evaluate risk factors of urine RBP and β₂-MG. Results: In all patients (n=1 030), urine RBP and β₂-MG increased gradually with the increase of UACR across the three groups, the proportions of abnormal urine RBP (>0.7 mg/L) and β₂-MG (>370 μg/L) in these groups were 3.8%, 8.5%, 39.0% (P<0.001), and 12.9%, 26.7%, 46.8% (P<0.001), respectively. In the UACR normal group (n=788), 12.2% of the patients were with eGFR<90 ml·min^-1·1.73m^-2. The proportion of abnormal β₂-MG (>370 μg/L) was higher in the eGFR low group than that in the eGFR normal group (29.2% vs. 10.7%, P<0.001). Multivariate linear stepwise regression analyses were performed using natural logarithm of urine RBP or β₂-MG as dependent variable, and showed that urine RBP was independently associated with UACR (β=0.0005, P<0.001), serum creatinine (β=0.006, P<0.001) and glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (β=0.050, P=0.001), and β₂-MG was independently correlated with UACR (β=0.000 4, P<0.001), serum creatinine (β=0.011, P<0.001), systolic blood pressure (β=0.005, P=0.031) and fasting blood-glucose (β=0.027, P=0.046). Conclusions: Urine RBP and β₂-MG are positively associated with high UACR and impaired renal function in T2DM patients, and these changes could occur before UACR and eGFR turned out to be abnormal. It is recommended that urine RBP and β₂-MG be detected as early as possible to identify diabetic kidney disease in patients with normal UACR and eGFR.

[Recommendations for public health protection against flood disaster]

Flood disaster is one of the most serious natural disasters in the world, and it could pose an inestimable impact on the affected people. Based on existing laws, regulations, and emergency manuals in China, extensive literature review, epidemiological and related protection evidence, and expert consultation, this study analyzed different health risk factors of flood disaster and proposed a multi-stage, multi-population, and multi-phase comprehensive protection measures for the public in the perspective of pre-event prevention, in-event intervention and post-event rescue strategy, which could provide a scientific basis for improving the level of public health protection against the flood disaster and corresponding health outcomes.

[A qualitative study on high risk behaviors and related factors of reported HIV/AIDS cases aged 60 years and above in some areas of Henan province]

Objective: To understand the major high risk behaviors and related factors among reported HIV/AIDS cases aged ≥60 years in some areas of Henan province. Methods: In Dengzhou, Xunxian county of Hebi and Xiangcheng county of Xuchang, where the reported number and proportion of HIV/AIDS cases aged ≥60 years were high, a face to face interview was conducted among the cases aged ≥60 years during July-August in 2016. The information about the high risk behaviors before HIV infection confirmation were collected by using a semi-structured questionnaire. Results: A total of 33 HIV/AIDS cases aged ≥60 years were interviewed, including 28 males and 5 females. Their average age was 67.4 years. The infection route was sexual contact. The main findings revealed that the main factor for HIV infection in elder males was commercial heterosexual behavior with local female sex workers. The condom use rate was low. The poor awareness of the knowledge about AIDS prevention could explain why the elderly could not recognize the risk of HIV infection. There were also homosexual and bisexual behaviors in elder male HIV/AIDS patients. Late detection of HIV transmission among couples was the main cause of HIV infection in elder women. Conclusions: The major epidemiological related factors for HIV infection in the elderly in some areas of Henan were unsafe sex behavior and the poor awareness of knowledge about AIDS prevention. A targeted strategy should be taken to control the spread of HIV in the elderly.

[Sivelestat alleviates nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in mice through inhibiting activation of Kupffer cells]

Objective: To investigate the role of neutrophil elastase inhibitor, sivelestat, in preventing and treating nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and its underling mechanisms. Methods: A total of forty 4-week-old male C57BL/6J ApoE-/-mice were equally divided into the following four groups: standard chow (SC)+isotonic saline; SC+sivelestat; high-fat, high-cholesterol (HFHC) diet+isotonic saline; and HFHC+sivelestat. These mice were treated with above methods for 12 weeks. Blood and liver tissue samples were collected to measure biochemical parameters, hepatic steatosis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) activity score (inflammation) were evaluated by oil red O staining and HE staining, respectively. The mRNA and protein expression levels of hepatic inflammatory cytokines, CD68, and F4/80 were determined by quantitative RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Comparison of means between the four groups was made by one-way analysis of variance, and comparison between any two groups was made by the LSD or SNK method (for data with homogeneity of variance) or the Tamhane or Dunnett method (for data with heterogeneity of variance). Results: Mice fed with an HFHC diet for 12 weeks developed typical pathological features of NASH compared with those fed with SC. Compared with mice fed with HFHC diet without sivelestat, those treated with HFHC and sivelestat exhibited the following features: (1) significantly reduced fast blood glucose, blood cholesterol, and hepatic biochemical parameters, as well as increased insulin sensitivity; (2) significantly reduced NAFLD activity score (5.71±1.11 vs 3.16±1.16, P < 0.05); (3) reduced monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and tumor necrosis factor -α; (4) significantly reduced mRNA levels of CD68 and F4/80; and (5) reduced expression of CD68 in the liver. Conclusion: Sivelestat alleviates the hepatic steatosis and inflammation of NASH in mice by inhibiting the activation of Kupffer cells.

[Association between total cholesterol and risk of lung cancer incidence in men: a prospective cohort study]

Objective: To assess the association and intensity of baseline TC level with the incidence of lung cancer in men in China. Methods: Since May 2006, all the male workers, including the employees and the retirees in Kailuan Group were recruited in the Kailuan male dynamic cohort study. Information about demographics, medical history, anthropometry and TC level were collected at the baseline interview, as well as the information of newly-diagnosed lung cancer cases during the follow-up period. According to guidelines for blood lipids in Chinese adults and the distribution in the population, TC level was classified into five groups as followed: <160, 160-, 180-, 200- and ≥240 mg/dl, with the second quintile group (160- mg/dl) serving as the referent category. Cox proportional hazards regression model and restricted cubic spline (RCS) model were used to evaluate the association and the nonlinear association between baseline TC level and the risk of lung cancer in the men. Results: By December 31, 2014, for the 109 884 men, a follow up of 763 819.25 person-years was made with a median follow-up period of 7.88 years. During the follow up, 808 lung cancer cases were identified. After adjustment for age, education level, income level, smoking status, alcohol consumption level, history of dust exposure, FPG level and BMI, HR (95%CI) of lung cancer for men with lower TC level (<160 mg/dl) and higher TC level (≥240 mg/dl) were 1.34 (1.04- 1.72) and 1.45 (1.09-1.92), respectively, compared with men with normal TC level (160- mg/dl). The results didn't change significantly after exclusion of newly diagnosed cancer cases within 2 years of follow up and subjects with the history of hyperlipidemia. Conclusion: Our results showed that TC might be associated with higher risk of lung cancer. Men with lower TC level or higher TC level had higher risk for lung cancer. Keep moderate TC level might be one of the effective precaution for the prevention of lung cancer.

[Relationship between inflammatory markers and the risk of colorectal cancer in Kailuan male cohort]

Objective: To investigate whether elevated levels of high sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hsCRP) and neutrophil (NE) at baseline are associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer in Kailuan male cohort. Methods: Since May 2006, males from Kailuan cohort were included in this study. Information on demographics, medical history, anthropometry, hsCRP and NE were collectedat baseline for all subjects. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HR) of association between baseline hsCRP and NE and colorectal cancer risk. Results: By December 31, 2015, a total of 73 869 participants were enrolled in this study. During the follow-up, 336 incident colorectal cancer cases were identified. All participants were divided into three groups according to the level of hsCRP (<1 mg/L, 1-3 mg/L and >3 mg/L). The cumulative incidence of colorectal cancer were 456/10(5,) 510/10(5) and 746/10(5) in these 3 groups, respectively (χ(2)=10.79, P=0.005). Compared with participants with lower hsCRP levels (<1 mg/L), individuals with the highest hsCRP (>3 mg/L) levels had significant increased risks of colorectal cancer (HR=1.38, 95%CI: 1.05-1.81, P=0.020)after adjusting for age, gender, smoking, drinking, BMI, diabetes and income. Furthermore, subjects were divided into two groups according to the level of NE (≤ 4.08×10(9)/L and > 4.08×10(9)/L). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models indicated that there is no statistical significance of association between NE and colorectal cancer. Conclusions: Elevated levels of hsCRP at baseline might increase the risk of colorectal cancer in males.

[Survival effect after antiretroviral treatment initiating at different times on AIDS patients in Henan province, 2002-2014]

OBJECTIVE

To study the survival effect of AIDS patients after the antiretroviral treatment that initiated at different times and to understand the factors associated with the survival time.

METHODS

Information on AIDS patients who started receiving the antiretroviral therapy during 2002-2014 was collected from the Chinese HIV/AIDS Integrated Control System in Henan province. According to the level of baseline immunology, all the participants were divided into earlier treatment group [Baseline CD4(+)T lymphocyte cell counts (CD4) between 350/μl and 500/μl] or conventional treatment group (Baseline CD4 cell counts≤350/μl). Data was analyzed with both Survival and Review methods.

RESULTS

A total number of 37 169 cases were selected, including 32 129 cases in the conventional treatment group and 5 040 cases in the earlier treatment group. Mortalities in the conventional treatment group and earlier treatment group were 4.3/100 person year and 1.8/100 person year, respectively. Data on the 11-year cumulative survival rate of both the conventional treatment group and earlier treatment group were 67.9% and 82.3%, respectively. By means of multi-variable analysis, we found that factors as gender, age, marital status, route of infection, number of symptoms, missed taking drugs in the past 7 days, degree of education at baseline of conventional treatment group etc. were associated with survival time of patients after the initiation of antiretroviral treatment (ART) (P<0.05) while factors as gender, age, marital status, ever missed taking drugs in the past 7 days at baseline etc. in the earlier treatment group were associated with the survival time of patients after the ART initiation (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Strategy including earlier initiation of antiretroviral treatment on AIDS patients who had met the treatment criteria and programs related to the improvement on adherence to medication, could prolong the survival time of AIDS patients, in Henan province.

[HCV infection status and related risk factors in drug users under HIV sentinel surveillance in Henan province, 2011-2015]

OBJECTIVE

To understand the hepatitis C virus infection status and related risk factors in drug users in Henan province during 2011-2015 and provide scientific evidence for the development of HCV infection prevention and control measures.

METHODS

Cross-sectional questionnaire surveys were conducted among the drug users and blood samples were taken from them for HCV antibody detection during HIV sentinel surveillance period in Henan province from April to June during 2011-2015.

RESULTS

The HCV infection rate in drug users increased from 3.70% in 2011 to 6.54% in 2015 (trend χ(2)=25.93, P<0.01). Multivariate analysis indicated that HCV infection related risk factors included age older (OR=1.23, 95% CI: 1.13-1.35, P=0.00), place of domicile (OR=3.45, 95%CI: 2.59-4.60, P=0.00), traditional drug user or mixed drug user (OR=1.46, 95%CI: 1.10-1.93, P=0.01; OR=1.82, 95%CI: 1.18-2.81, P=0.01), injecting drug user (OR=2.88, 95%CI: 2.45-3.39, P=0.00), commercial sex behavior in recent one year (OR=1.44, 95%CI: 1.20-1.72, P=0.00) and drug user in compulsory drug rehabilitation or those receiving methadone maintenance treatment (OR=1.79, 95% CI: 1.28-2.50, P=0.00; OR=1.74, 95% CI: 1.17-2.58, P=0.01).

CONCLUSION

The HCV infection rate in drug users was higher in Henan and increased rapidly with years. In order to control HCV spread, it is necessary to strengthen the management of drug users and take effective intervention measures.

[Quality of life and its related factors among HIV/AIDS patients from HIV serodiscordant couples in Zhoukou of Henan province]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the quality of life and its related factors among HIV/AIDS patients from HIV serodiscordant couples in Zhoukou city of Henan province.

METHODS

During January to May in 2015, by the convenience sample, World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire for Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF) (Chinese version) and a self-edited questionnaire were used to investigate 1 251 HIV/AIDS patients who were confirmed with HIV positive by local CDC, registered in"HIV serodiscordant family" and agreed to participate in a face-to-face interview with above 18 year-old based on the local CDC , township hospitals and village clinics of 9 counties and 1 district of Zhoukou city, excluding the HIV/AIDS patients who were in divorce, death by one side, unknowing about his HIV status, with mental illness and disturbance of consciousness, incorrectly understanding the content of the questionnaire, and reluctant to participate in this study. The scores of quality of life of physical, psychological, social relations, and environmental domain were calculated. The related factors of the scores of different domains were analyzed by Multiple Two Classification Unconditioned Logistic Regression.

RESULTS

The scores of investigation objects in the physical, psychological, social relations, and environmental domain were 12.00± 2.02, 12.07 ± 2.07, 11.87 ± 1.99, and 11.09 ± 1.84, respectively. The multiple Unconditioned Logistic Regression analysis indicated that age <40 years, on ART and no other sickness in last two weeks were beneficial factors associated with physical domain with OR (95%CI): 0.61 (0.35-1.06), 0.52 (0.30-0.90), and 1.66 (1.09-2.52), respectively. The possibility of no poverty and no other sickness in last two weeks increased to 0.15(0.09-0.26) and 1.57(1.06-2.33) times of those who was in poverty and with other sickness in last two weeks in physical domain. The possibility of participants who were below 40 years old and with children increased to 0.58 (0.34-0.98) and 0.37 (0.23-0.57) times of who were above 40 years old and without children in psychological domain. The factors of with AIDS related symptoms, no children and with other sickness in last two week were found to be significantly associated with environmental domain with OR (95%CI): 0.65 (0.48-0.88), 0.66 (0.51-0.85), and 0.65 (0.51-0.84), respectively .

CONCLUSION

The scores of every domain of quality of life in HIV serodiscordant couples of Zhoukou city were good. Age, whether having AIDS related symptoms, whether to accept ART , children, status of poverty, and whether suffering from other diseases in last two weeks were the main factors associated with the quality of life.

Preliminary consideration of CFETR ITER-like case diagnostic system

Chinese Fusion Engineering Test Reactor (CFETR) is a new superconducting tokamak device being designed in China, which aims at bridging the gap between ITER and DEMO, where DEMO is a tokamak demonstration fusion reactor. Two diagnostic cases, ITER-like case and towards DEMO case, have been considered for CFETR early and later operating phases, respectively. In this paper, some preliminary consideration of ITER-like case will be presented. Based on ITER diagnostic system, three versions of increased complexity and coverage of the ITER-like case diagnostic system have been developed with different goals and functions. Version A aims only machine protection and basic control. Both of version B and version C are mainly for machine protection, basic and advanced control, but version C has an increased level of redundancy necessary for improved measurements capability. The performance of these versions and needed R&D work are outlined.

[Establishment and evaluation of a mouse model of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis-related hepatocellular carcinoma]

OBJECTIVE

To establish an apolipoprotein E (ApoE) and low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) double-knockout (ApoE(-/-)/LDLR(-/-)) mouse model of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) induced by high-fat and high-cholesterol (HFHC) diet.

METHODS

ApoE(-/-) knockout mice were crossed with LDLR(-/-) knockout mice to obtain ApoE(-/-)/LDLR(-/-) mice. The ApoE(-/-)/LDLR(-/-) mice mated with each other, and the offspring were injected with low-dose streptozotocin (STZ) at 2-3 days after birth. Some mice were fed with HFHC diet after weaning as the model group (n = 15), and some mice were fed with normal diet as the control group (n = 15). Mice were sacrificed at the end of weeks 10, 16, and 20 (5 mice at each time point). The body weight was measured. Liver tissue and blood were collected to measure biochemical parameters, evaluate the pathological changes in the liver tissue by HE staining, oil red O staining, and Masson staining, and detect the expression of glypican-3 (a marker of HCC) by immunohistochemical staining.

RESULTS

The model group had significantly higher levels of fasting blood glucose and total cholesterol than the control group (P < 0.01). Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and total triglyceride gradually increased with time in the model group; at week 20, there were significant differences in above three indices between the two groups (P < 0.05). HE staining showed that compared with the control group at the corresponding time point, the model group developed sequential histological changes: NASH at week 10, dysplastic nodules at week 16, and early HCC at week 20. Oil red O staining showed that in the model group, the degree of liver steatosis increased within 10 weeks and gradually decreased later. Masson staining demonstrated that the model group developed pathological changes: mild perisinusoidal fibrosis at week 16 and bridging fibrosis around tumors at week 20. HE staining, oil red O staining, and Masson staining showed that no histological or pathological changes were found in the control group. Glypican-3 was detected in the nodules at week 16 and in the cytoplasm of HCC cells at week 20 in the model group.

CONCLUSION

The mouse model of NASH-related HCC can be developed by giving STZ injection to neonatal ApoE(-/-)/LDLR(-/-) mice and feeding them with HFHC diet after weaning for 20 weeks. Early HCC may develop directly from NASH.

[Impact of liver cancer deaths on life expectancy in 14 counties (districts) from the Huai River Basin, 2013: relationship between the water environment and liver cancer]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the relationship between liver cancer and the water environment, we analyzed the life expectancy in 14 counties (districts), which form the Huai River Basin with respect to liver cancer deaths in 2013 and changes in the surface water quality from 2004 to 2010.

METHODS

The study area included the 14 counties (districts) of the Huai River Basin in China. We obtained surveillance data for all causes of death in the study area during 2013, as well as data for International Classification of Diseases,Tenth Edition(ICD-10) code C22 or liver cancer. Life expectancy and life expectancy after elimination of liver cancer were then calculated. Based on water quality monitoring data from the China Environment Yearbook 2005-2011, we analyzed the water environment of the Huai River Basin, and changes in the water quality. According to the " Encyclopedia of Rivers and Lakes in China" (Huai River Basin section), we divided the river basin into five categories: upstream basin (upstream); midstream, north shore of the basin (midstream-north); midstream, south shore of the basin (midstream-south); downstream basin (downstream); and the Yishusi River Basin. To calculate the life expectancy and life expectancy after elimination of liver cancer in the study area, we used the Nemerow Pollution Index (NPI), to investigate the relationship between liver cancer and the water environment.

RESULTS

Life expectancy in the 14 study districts varied from 68.99 years (Shenqiu County) to 78.85 years (Jinhu County). Gains in life expectancy after elimination of liver cancer varied from 0.86 to 0.31 years. Midstream-north showed the greatest improvement, with overall gain in life expectancy of 0.77 years; this gain was 1.04 years for males and 0.40 years for females. Yishusi River Basin showed the least improvement, with overall gain in life expectancy of 0.41 years; this gain was 0.54 years for males and 0.24 years for females. For the 7 years from 2004 to 2010, midstream-north had the highest annual NPI values, at 2.08, 1.74, 1.64, 1.81, 1.41, 1.26, and 1.06, respectively. There was a positive correlation between NPI and life expectancy gain for both males and females (r=0.64, P=0.014). There was positive correlation between NPI and life expectancy gain among males alone (r=0.64, P=0.014); there was no significant correlation between NPI and life expectancy gain among females (r=0.44, P=0.115).

CONCLUSION

Liver cancer had a significant impact on life expectancy in the Huai River Basin. The gain in life expectancy was higher for males than for females. There is a possible relationship between liver cancer deaths and the water environment in the research area, but this study did not infer a causal association.

Mitochondrial tRNALeu(CUN) A12307G variant may not be associated pancreatic cancer

Mitochondrial DNA mutations that lead to mitochondrial dysfunction have long been proposed to play important roles in the development of pancreatic cancer. Of these, alterations to mitochondrial tRNA genes constitute the largest group. Most recently, a variation at position 12307 in the gene encoding tRNA(Leu(CUN)) has been reported to be associated with this disease. However, the molecular mechanism underlying this relationship remains poorly understood. To assess this association, we evaluated this variant by evolutionary conservation analysis, measurements of allelic frequencies among control subjects, and use of several bioinformatic tools to estimate potential structural and functional alterations. We found this residue to have a high conservation index; however, the presence of the A12307G variation in control subjects revealed by a literature search suggested it to be common in human populations. Moreover, RNAfold results showed that this variant did not alter the secondary structure of tRNA(Leu(CUN)). Through the application of a pathogenicity scoring system, this variant was determined to be a "neutral polymorphism," with a score of only 4 points based on current data. Thus, the contribution of the A12307G variant to pancreatic cancer needs to be addressed in further experimental studies.

[Body mass index and the risk of lung cancer incidence in smokers: a prospective cohort study]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of baseline body mass index (BMI) on the risk of lung cancer incidence in male smokers.

METHODS

All the male employees and retirees of the Kailuan Group were recruited in the Chinese Kailuan Male Cohort Study, and they had been experienced routine physical examinations every two years since May, 2006. Up to 31st December 2011, a total of 3 rounds physical examinations had been completed. A total of 42 718 male smokers candidates from the Chinese Kailuan Male Cohort Study were enrolled in the present study. The date of entering this study was defined as that of taking first check-up, and the date of end-of-observation was defined as that of cancer diagnosis, death or end of follow-up (31 December 2011). Information on demographics, lifestyle such as smoking, alcohol consumption, anthropometries such as height and weight, as well as the information of newly-diagnosed cancer cases, were collected at the baseline investigation. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to investigate the association between levels of the baseline BMI and risk of lung cancer.

RESULTS

Of the 42 718 male smokers, there were 181 998.09 person-years of follow-up, taking 4.26 years of average follow-up period. During follow-up, 234 new lung cancer cases were identified among the 42 718 male smokers and the crude incidence density was 128.57/100 000. After the factors adjustment for age, education level, alcohol consumption, physical activity, work environment and cumulative smoking levels (pack-years), compared with subjects of normal BMI group, hazard ratio and 95% confidence intervals of lung cancer for subjects of underweight, overweight, and obesity were 1.63 (0.79-3.37), 0.79 (0.57-1.09) and 0.50 (0.27-0.91), respectively. After the facotors adjustment for age, education level, alcohol consumption, physical activity, work environment and cumulative smoking levels (pack-years), compared with subjects of normal BMI, hazard ratio and 95% confidence intervals of lung cancer for subjects of obesity among subjects who aged 50 years or above, smoked more than 20 pack-years, and exercised less than 4 times per week were 0.33 (0.15-0.71), 0.27 (0.10-0.75), and 0.44 (0.20-0.96), respectively. Obesity subjects who worked above the well had decreased risk of lung cancer (HR=0.38, 95% CI: 0.15-0.96) compared with normal BMI ones who worked above the well.

CONCLUSION

BMI was negatively correlated with the risk of lung cancer in male smokers. As for male smokers, one of the most effective approaches to prevent and control the lung cancer has been shown to quit smoking and keep fit.

Genetic diversity analysis of Capparis spinosa L. populations by using ISSR markers

Capparis spinosa L. is an important medicinal species in the Xinjiang Province of China. Ten natural populations of C. spinosa from 3 locations in North, Central, and South Xinjiang were studied using morphological trait inter simple sequence repeat (ISSR) molecular markers to assess the genetic diversity and population structure. In this study, the 10 ISSR primers produced 313 amplified DNA fragments, with 52% of fragments being polymorphic. Unweighted pair-group method with arithmetic average (UPGMA) cluster analysis indicated that 10 C. spinosa populations were clustered into 3 geographically distinct groups. The Nei gene of C. spinosa populations in different regions had Diversity and Shannon's information index ranges of 0.1312-0.2001 and 0.1004-0.1875, respectively. The 362 markers were used to construct the dendrogram based on the UPGMA cluster analysis. The dendrogram indicated that 10 populations of C. spinosa were clustered into 3 geographically distinct groups. The results showed these genotypes have high genetic diversity, and can be used for an alternative breeding program.

Comparison of antioxidant activities of different parts from snow chrysanthemum (Coreopsis tinctoria Nutt.) and identification of their natural antioxidants using high performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection and mass spectrometry and 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-sulfonic acid)diammonium salt-based assay

Snow chrysanthemum (Coreopsis tinctoria Nutt.), a world-widely well-known flower tea material, has attracted more and more attention because of its beneficial health effects such as antioxidant activity and special flavor. In this study, a high performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection and mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-MS) and 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-sulfonic acid)diammonium salt (ABTS) based assay was employed for comparison and identification of antioxidants in different samples of snow chrysanthemum. The results showed that snow chrysanthemum flowers possessed the highest while stems presented the lowest antioxidant capacities. Fourteen detected peaks with antioxidant activity were temporarily identified as 3,4',5,6,7-pentahydroxyflavanone-O-hexoside, chlorogenic acid, 2R-3',4',8-trihydroxyflavanone-7-O-glucoside, flavanomarein, flavanocorepsin, flavanokanin, quercetagitin-7-O-glucoside, 3',5,5',7-tetrahydroxyflavanone-O-hexoside, marein, maritimein, 1,3-dicaffeoylquinic acid, coreopsin, okanin and acetyl-marein by comparing their UV spectra, retention times and MS data with standards or literature data. Antioxidants existed in snow chrysanthemum are quite different from those reported in Chrysanthemum morifolium, a well-known traditional beverage in China, which indicated that snow chrysanthemum may be a promising herbal tea material with obvious antioxidant activity.

Effects of dietary thiazolidinedione supplementation on growth performance, intramuscular fat and related genes mRNA abundance in the longissimus dorsi muscle of finishing pigs

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation with thiazolidinedione (TZD) on growth performance and meat quality of finishing pigs. In Experiment 1, 80 castrated finishing pigs (Large White×Landrace, BW = 54.34 kg) were randomly assigned to 2 treatments with 5 replicates of 8 pigs each. The experimental pigs in the 2 groups were respectively fed with a diet with or without a TZD supplementation (15 mg/kg). In Experiment 2, 80 castrated finishing pigs (Large White×Landrace, BW = 71.46 kg) were divided into 2 treatments as designed in Experiment 1, moreover, carcass evaluations were performed. The results from Experiment 1 showed that TZD supplementation could significantly decreased the average daily feed intake (ADFI) (p<0.05) during 0 to 28 d, without impairing the average daily gain (ADG) (p>0.05). In Experiment 2, the ADG was significantly increased by TZD supplementation during 14 to 28 d and 0 to 28 d (p<0.05) and the feed:gain ratio (F:G) was significantly decreased by TZD supplementation during 0 to 28 d (p<0.05). Compared with the control group, TZD group had significantly higher serum triglyceride (TG) concentration at 28h and serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels at 14 d (p<0.05). Moreover, there was an apparent improvement in the marbling score (p<0.10) and intramuscular fat (IMF) content (p<0.10) of the longissimus dorsi muscle in pigs treated by TZD supplementation. Real-time RT-PCR analyses demonstrated that pigs of TZD group had higher mRNA abundance of PPARγ coactivator 1 (PGC-1) (p<0.05) and fatty acid-binding protein 3 (FABP3) (p<0.05) than pigs of control group. Taken together, these results suggested that dietary TZD supplementation could improve growth performance and increase the IMF content of finishing pigs through regulating the serum parameters and genes mRNA abundance involved in fat metabolism.

Re-categorisation of male lower urinary tract symptoms based on the international prostate symptom score questionnaire

AIMS

The purpose of this study was to develop a new sub-classification system for male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS)-mild, moderate and severe-using the conventional International Prostate Symptoms Score (I-PSS).

METHODS

From October 2007 to March 2012, a total of 2234 male patients (≥ 50 years old) presenting with LUTS were enrolled in this study. Patients were sorted according to their I-PSS (ranging from 1 to 35 points) and divided into three groups based on their quality of life (QoL) score. A chi-square automatic interaction detection (CHAID) algorithm, based on adjusted significance testing, was used. The Kappa coefficient was calculated for the agreement of original and new categorisation.

RESULTS

Mean total I-PSS and QoL scores were 11.0 and 2.9 respectively. According to the original classification, 838 patients (38.6%) had mild, 1053 (48.5%) had moderate and 282 (13.0%) had severe symptoms. After the CHAID algorithm was applied, the scores were re-categorised as 'mild' (1-6 points), 'moderate' (7-21 points) and 'severe' (22-35 points). The overall model was able to correctly predict whether an I-PSS was associated with mild, moderate or severe symptoms, with 70.1% accuracy. According to this new classification, 704 patients (32.4%) were shown to have mild, 1255 (57.8%) to have moderate and 214 (9.8%) to have severe LUTS. The agreement of conventional and new categorisation is very strong (Kappa coefficient = 0.84).

CONCLUSIONS

Conventional categorisation of LUTS by I-PSS needs to be updated and the category of moderate LUTS should be broadened.

Evaluation of energy digestibility and prediction of digestible and metabolizable energy from chemical composition of different cottonseed meal sources fed to growing pigs

The present experiment was conducted to determine the digestible energy (DE), metabolizable energy (ME) content, and the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of energy in growing pigs fed diets containing one of ten cottonseed meals (CSM) collected from different provinces of China and to develop in vitro prediction equations for DE and ME content from chemical composition of the CSM samples. Twelve growing barrows with an initial body weight of 35.2±1.7 kg were allotted to two 6×6 Latin square designs, with six barrows and six periods and six diets for each. A corn-dehulled soybean meal diet was used as the basal diet, and the other ten diets were formulated with corn, dehulled soybean meal and 19.20% CSM. The DE, ME and ATTD of gross energy among different CSM sources varied largely and ranged from 1,856 to 2,730 kcal/kg dry matter (DM), 1,778 to 2,534 kcal/kg DM, and 42.08 to 60.47%, respectively. Several chemical parameters were identified to predict the DE and ME values of CSM, and the accuracy of prediction models were also tested. The best fit equations were: DE, kcal/kg DM = 670.14+31.12 CP+659.15 EE with R² = 0.82, RSD = 172.02, p<0.05; and ME, kcal/kg DM = 843.98+25.03 CP+673.97 EE with R² = 0.84, RSD = 144.79, p<0.05. These results indicate that DE, ME values and ATTD of gross energy varied substantially among different CSM sources, and that some prediction equations can be applied to predict DE and ME in CSM with an acceptable accuracy.

Theoretical investigation for the EPR g-factors of the mixed ground state in NaCl: Ag2+ crystals

In this paper, it is considered that the local structure of the (AgCl6)4- cluster for the NaCl: Ag2+ crystal is of the axially elongational D4h symmetry which possesses the weaker rhombic distortion at <001> lattice site. The mechanism for an admixture of the 2A1g into the ground state 2B1g is taken into account. The electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) g factors of NaCl: Ag2+ are studied by using the double spin-orbit coupling model and an approximation of a semiempirical molecular orbit. The EPR g factors for the NaCl: Ag2+ crystals are reasonably explained as well as the good agreement between the calculated values and the experimental data is obtained.

Simultaneous determination of salbutamol, ractopamine, and clenbuterol in animal feeds by SPE and LC-MS

A liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) method for the simultaneous determination of salbutamol, ractopamine, and clenbuterol in commercial feeds was developed. Samples were extracted with phosphoric acid-methanol solution, and further clean-up was achieved with a C18 cation exchange mixed mode cartridge. Separation of analytes was developed on a C18 column with 0.01 M aqueous ammonium formate solution (pH 3.8)-acetonitrile by gradient program, and characterized by LC-MS on a quadrupole detector, in electrospray positive ion mode. This method provides average recoveries for salbutamol, ractopamine, and clenbuterol of 83-110% and coefficients of variation of 1.5-11% in feeds spiked in the range of 0.5-500 mg/kg. The limits of detection and quantification in feeds were 0.01 mg/kg and 0.05 mg/kg, respectively. Such limits are well below the dose of 2-25 mg/kg feed proposed as effective.

Apparent ileal digestibility of amino acids and the digestible and metabolizable energy content of high-oil corn varieties and its effects on growth performance of pigs

Two experiments were conducted to compare the nutritional value of normal and high-oil corn for pigs. The normal corn and the two varieties (high-oil corns A and B) of high-oil corn contained 4.41, 7.35 and 8.86% ether extract, on DM basis, respectively. In experiment 1, six non-littermate crossbred barrows (37.8 +/- 1.3 kg BW) were fitted with ileal T-cannulas and used in a double replicated Latin Square digestion trial. Three diets were formulated containing 96.6% of one of the three varieties of corn as the only protein source. Chromic oxide (0.4%) was added as a digestibility marker. Additional vitamins and minerals were added to meet requirements. The digestible energy concentrations for normal corn and high-oil corn A and B were 16.53, 16.99 and 17.07 MJ/kg while the metabolizable energy values were 15.82, 16.32 and 16.36 MJ/kg, on DM basis, respectively. The ileal amino acid digestibility of high-oil corn was generally higher than that of normal corn with significant differences being observed for the essential amino acids isoleucine and phenylalanine. In experiment 2, 96 pigs (8.01 +/- 0.14 kg BW) were used to evaluate four diets in a 2 x 2 factorial design conducted over a 35-day period. Corn variety (high-oil vs. normal corn) and nutrient density (high content of protein and ME vs. low content of protein and ME) were set as the two main effects. During the first 14 days, pigs fed high-oil corn diets consumed more feed and tended to get higher daily gain than pigs fed normal corn. Over the entire 35-day experiment, increasing dietary nutrient density increased daily gain and tended to increase feed conversion, while variety of corn had no significant effects on performance. Overall, the present results indicate that the energy concentration and ileal amino acid digestibility of high-oil corn varieties were equal or superior to those in normal corn and therefore they should be able to be effectively utilized in diets fed to swine.

Cloning of precursors for two MIH/VIH-related peptides in the prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii

Two cDNA clones (634 and 1366 bp) encoding MIH/VIH (molt-inhibiting hormone/vitellogenesis-inhibiting hormone)-related peptides were isolated and sequenced from a Macrobrachium rosenbergii eyestalk ganglia cDNA library. The clones contain a 360 and 339 bp open-reading frame, and their conceptually translated peptides consist of a 41 and 34 amino acid signal peptide, respectively, and a 78 amino acid residue mature peptide hormone. The amino acid sequences of the peptides exhibit higher identities with other known MIHs and VIH (44-69%) than with CHHs (28-33%). This is the first report describing the cloning and sequencing of two MIH/VIH-related peptides in a single crustacean species. Transcription of these mRNAs was detected in the eyestalk ganglia, but not in the thoracic ganglia, hepatopancreas, gut, gill, heart, or muscle.

Urethral diverticulo-rectal fistula in AIDS

A 41-year-old heterosexual African man was evaluated for persistent urethral discharge, pneumaturia and watery diarrhea. Radiographic and endoscopic procedures established the diagnosis of a rectourethral fistula. The differential diagnosis of an acquired rectourethral fistula and the significance of AIDS are discussed.

Changes in free amino acids in the hemolymph of giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii exposed to varying salinities: relationship to osmoregulatory ability

Changes in free amino acids (FAA) in the hemolymph of the giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, were examined in individuals exposed to varying salinities for up to 1 week. In freshwater and under conditions of low salinity, total FAA concentrations were maintained between approximately 0.85 and 1 mM and did not exhibit changes in response to salinity exposure. Under high salinities, total FAA concentrations increased dramatically, reaching up to 2.1 mM depending on treatment. Examination of individual amino acid concentrations revealed that these increases were based on specific changes in glycine, arginine, alanine, proline and lysine. Among these, alanine showed the greatest increases, resulting in levels six-fold higher under high salinity than in freshwater and under low salinity. The other amino acid species showed increases of 2.5-fold compared to original values. These five FAAs in freshwater and under low salinity together occupied approximately 45% of total FAA contents and under high salinity comprised more than 70% of total FAA contents. These results suggest that specific hemolymph FAAs are involved in mediating response to salinity exposure in freshwater prawns.

Determination of amino acid sequence and site of mRNA expression of four vitellins in the giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii

Four major yolk proteins, designated as vitellins (Vns) Macr-VnA, B, C, and D, were extracted from mature ovaries of Macrobrachium rosenbergii. These were purified to homogeneity by reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) employing a unique separation system based on the hydrophobic properties of the Vn molecule. Using standard techniques of protein sequencing, more than 33 N-terminal and 57 internal amino acid residues were determined for each of the four Vns. The cDNA fragments encoding the four Vns were amplified by PCR using degenerate oligonucleotide primers derived from the N-terminal and internal amino acid sequences. These cDNA fragments were cloned, sequenced, and used as probes to examine the transcription of mRNAs encoding the four Vns. Significant accumulations of these mRNAs were observed in female hepatopancreas only, while mRNA expression was not detected in male hepatopancreas or any other female tissue including ovary, subepidermal adipose tissue, gill, and muscle. This is the first occasion in Crustacea in which multiple Vns were demonstrated to be synthesized simultaneously in a single tissue.

[Studies on response characteristics of Cl, Br, I of microwave plasma torch atomic emission detector for gas chromatography]

The present paper deals with a microwave plasma torch atomic emission detector for gas chromatography. Argon is used as support gas, carrier gas and make-up gas. The effect of oxygen scavenger gas on the detection performance for chlorine, bromine and iodine is discussed. Detection limits, dynamic ranges, relative standard deviations and response characteristics of GC-MPT-AED for chlorine, bromine and iodine in organic compounds were studied. The results are favorable in comparing with GC-ICP-AED.

Characterization of Na/K-ATPase in Macrobrachium rosenbergii and the effects of changing salinity on enzymatic activity

A ouabain-sensitive Na/K-ATPase kinetic assay system based on the hydrolysis of ATP and the oxidation of NADH was adapted in order to characterize enzymatic activity in gills and examine the effects of changing salinity in Macrobrachium rosenbergii. Maximum inhibition by ouabain occurred at a concentration of 1.4 mM, and the K(m) of the reaction was 0.2 mM. In a first experiment, animals were acclimated to freshwater, 1/3 seawater, 2/3 seawater and full seawater for up to 1 week. Na/K-ATPase activity in front gills was 1. 62+/-0.19 micromol ADP/mg protein per h in freshwater, and was seen to increase slightly in 1/3 seawater (1.88+/-0.19 micromol ADP/mg protein per h) and 2/3 seawater (2.09+/-0.24 micromol ADP/mg protein per h), decreasing slightly in full seawater (1.92+/-0.43 micromol ADP/mg protein per h); however, differences were not significant. Back gills showed slightly higher levels, and a similar pattern of Na/K-ATPase activity. In a second experiment, animals were acclimated to 1/3 seawater and 2/3 seawater, and then transferred to freshwater. However, no changes in activity were seen, indicating that exposure to dilute media did not effect enzymatic activity. Whereas Na/K-ATPase is important in osmoregulatory function in marine euryhaline crustaceans, it may not play a significant role in adaptation in freshwater crustaceans that inhabit a more narrow range of salinities.

Penile vibratory threshold changes with various doses of SS-cream in patients with primary premature ejaculation

SS-cream made with extracts from natural products is a topical agent for treating premature ejaculation (PE). In order to elucidate the penile vibratory threshold changes and clinical effects of various doses of SS-cream, 53 patients with primary PE were investigated in a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled study. The mean age was 37.3 +/- 6.4 years and mean ejaculatory latency was 1.37 +/- 0.52 minutes. Neither the patients nor their sexual partners were satisfied with their sexual lives. Vibratory threshold at the glans penis, penile shaft, scrotum and index finger were measured using a biothesiometer twice during the screening period and three times one hour after the application of respective creams (SS-cream 0.05, 0.10. 0.15, 0.20 gm and placebo 0.10 gm) on the glans penis according to the order of the allocation table in a randomized fashion. The efficacy of SS-cream was defined as when the vibration threshold increased by more than 4 microns compared to the value tested during the screening period. The vibratory thresholds at the glans penis increased significantly in a dose-dependent manner after the application of various doses (0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20 gm) of SS-cream (p < 0.001), and the efficacy of SS-cream on the penile vibration threshold increased according to the increased dosage (penile shaft: 48.4, 51.6, 54.8, 64.5%, glans penis: 58.1, 67.7, 77.4, 83.9%, respectively). With these results, we concluded that SS-cream increased the penile sensory threshold dose dependently, and therefore it is clinically effective for treating the heightened penile sensory response in patients with PE.

Lysozyme association with nucleic acids

Lysozyme is well known for the ability to hydrolyze the cell wall of bacteria. Based on the similarity of structure between lysozyme and histones as seen from the results of X-ray crystal structure determinations, we have postulated that binding to nucleic acids may be another biological function of lysozyme. We have therefore begun a systematic study of the interactions of lysozyme and related molecules with nucleic acids, and present here a preliminary report. Binding to DNA and RNA has been demonstrated from gel electrophoresis, enzyme activity, and coprecipitation studies. We suggest that this function of lysozyme will provide an explanation why Lee-Huang et al. (1999) [Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 96, 2678-2681] were able to call lysozyme a "killer protein" against the AIDS virus, and may provide a new avenue of research on AIDS therapy.

Characterization of chromatophorotropic neuropeptides from the kuruma prawn Penaeus japonicus

Three chromatophorotropic neuropeptide hormones were purified from an aqueous extract of the sinus glands of the kuruma prawn Penaeus japonicus by two steps of reverse-phase HPLC and their amino acid sequences determined. One of them was found to show pigment concentrating activity and to have an amino acid sequence identical with that of the known red pigment concentrating hormone (RPCH), and therefore it was named Pej-RPCH. The other two peptides showed pigment dispersing hormone (PDH) activity and were named Pej-PDH-I and -II. They both consisted of 18 amino acid residues with a free amino-terminus and an amidated carboxyl-terminus, the sequences of Pej-PDH-I and -II being NSELINSLLGIPKVMTDAamide and NSELINSLLGLPKFMIDAamide, respectively. Three amino acid residues at positions 11, 14, and 16 differed between the two PDHs. Pej-PDH-II was about 5-, 7-, and 10-fold more potent than Pej-PDH-I for erythrophores, xanthophores, and melanophores, respectively. The major reason for the difference in potency between the two PDHs was attributed to differences in residues at position 16. In addition, they were found to be produced by a single individual. The order of sensitivity of the four types of chromatophores to Pej-RPCH and both PDHs was found to be erythrophores = xanthophores > melanophores > leukophores.

Population distributions of allele frequency of apolipoprotein E by age and gender in Han Chinese

AIM

To study apolipoproteins E (ApoE) allele frequency in Han Chinese based on age and gender from Shanghai metropolitan area.

METHODS

Healthy Han Chinese people (F: 237 and M: 412) were involved in this study. ApoE gene was amplified by PCR using the forward primer: 5'-GGC ACG GCT GTC CAA GGA GCT-3' and reverse primer: 5'-GAT GGC GCT GAG GCC GCG CT-3'. The PCR product was digested directly with 5 units of CfoI and separated by a 20% polyacrylamide nondenaturing gel.

RESULTS

ApoE*3 was the commonest allele which accounted for 86.4% of the isoforms, and ApoE*2 and ApoE*4 accounted for 6.2% and 7.5%, respectively. The allele and genotype frequencies were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium by comparison with that of the corresponding theoretical distribution (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The frequencies of ApoE*2, ApoE*3, and ApoE*4 were demonstrated in the normal Chinese population.

Blue light and abscisic acid independently induce heterophyllous switch in marsilea quadrifolia

In natural habitats Marsilea quadrifolia L. produces different types of leaves above and below the water level. In aseptic cultures growth conditions can be manipulated so that leaves of the submerged type are produced continuously. Under such conditions the application of either blue light or an optimal concentration of abscisic acid (ABA) induced the development of aerial-type leaves. When fluridone, an inhibitor of ABA biosynthesis, was added to the culture medium it did not prevent blue light induction of aerial leaf development. During blue light treatment the endogenous ABA level in M. quadrifolia leaves remained unchanged. However, after the plants were transferred to an enriched medium, the ABA level gradually increased, corresponding to a transition in development from the submerged type of leaves to aerial leaves. These results indicate that the blue light signal is not mediated by ABA. Therefore, in the regulation of heterophyllous determination, discrete pathways exist in response to environmental signals.

Gene synthesis by a LCR-based approach: high-level production of leptin-L54 using synthetic gene in Escherichia coli

Synthetic genes are very useful in genetic and protein engineering. Here we propose a general method for construction of synthetic genes. Short oligonucleotides are joined through ligase chain reaction (LCR) in high stringency conditions to make "unit fragments" which are then fused to form a full-length gene sequence by polymerase chain reaction. The procedure is simple and accurate and does not place constraints on sequence and length. In this report, a recombinant leptin gene was synthesized according to the codon preference of Escherichia coli. Besides, a substitution of the only Met at position 54 for Leu and an addition of a Met at the N-terminus were introduced in the synthetic gene. The gene was cloned in the pQE-31 expression vector and was expressed in E. coli. A large amount of recombinant leptin containing 6 x His tag was produced and purified by Ni-NTA affinity column. Finally, intact leptin-L54 was released after removing the tag by CNBr cleavage at the Met residue.

The efficacy of intrathecal coadministration of morphine and bupivacaine for labor analgesia

BACKGROUND

Intrathecal (i.t.) opioids can provide labor analgesia, but the onset of pain relief is slow. Bupivacaine has the beneficial property of less motor blockade than other local anesthetics. This study retrospectively examined the efficacy of concomitant use of i.t. morphine and bupivacaine for labor pain relief.

METHODS

Fifty five nulliparas who requested analgesia in the active phase (IA group) prior to a cervical dilation 3.9 +/- 0.6 cm and received i.t. morphine 0.5 mg and 0.1% bupivacaine 2.5 mg served as the treatment group, and 88 similar nulliparas who did not request and receive analgesia served as the control group.

RESULTS

The mean onset time of analgesia was 2.6 +/- 0.5 min, the duration was 4-12 h and 93% of parturients did not request additional analgesia after a single injection of i.t. morphine and bupivacaine. The active phase of the first and second stages of labor in the treatment group were significantly longer [318 +/- 214 min vs. 176 +/- 120 min; 74 +/- 29 min vs. 37 +/- 26 min]. Frequency of instrument-assisted vaginal delivery was higher compared with the control group (30.9% vs. 14.1%). However, there were no significant differences in the rate of cesarean section and the Apgar scores of newborns at 1 min and 5 min between the treatment and control group. The major side effects of the treatment group included pruritus (48%), nausea (40%), vomiting (37%), somnolence (27%), shivering (27%), urinary retention (21%), hypotension (15%), and bradycardia (13%). Most of the side effects were mild and could be alleviated by naloxone. Neither post-spinal headache nor respiratory depression was noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed that a single injection of i.t. morphine and bupivacaine provided rapid onset and effective analgesia with manageable side effects and without major complications. Thus, i.t. morphine and bupivacaine provides an alternative to epidural analgesia for most women in labor.

Amino acid sequences and activities of multiple hyperglycemic hormones from the Kuruma prawn, Penaeus japonicus

By means of a single-step reversed-phase HPLC, six CHH family peptides were isolated from sinus gland extracts of the kuruma prawn, Penaeus japonicus. Five of these peptides (Pej-SGP-I, -II, -III, -V, and -VI) expressed hyperglycemic activity and were considered to be the hyperglycemic hormones of this prawn. The amino acid sequences of the five peptides were determined (the amino acid sequence of Pej-SGP-III had been previously determined), revealing that all consisted of 72 amino acid residues with a free amino-terminus and an amidated carboxyl-terminus. They showed considerable sequence similarity to one another, but much less similarity to Pej-SGP-IV with molt-inhibiting activity, the sequence of which had also been determined previously. Examination of the dose-response relationship of these peptides showed that they were equally potent but had different efficacies, which were in the order of Pej-SGP-V, -VI > -III, -I > -II, corresponding well with their sequence characteristics.

Isolation and amino acid sequence of a molt-inhibiting hormone from the American crayfish, Procambarus clarkii

A molt-inhibiting hormone (Prc-MIH) was isolated from the sinus glands of the American crayfish, Procambarus clarkii, and its amino acid sequence was determined. It comprised 75 amino acid residues and had an amidated carboxyl terminus. The amino acid sequence was much more similar to MIH of the shore crab (Cam-MIH) than to MIH of the American lobster (Hoa-MIH).

[Study on the stability of Japanese encephalitis vaccine--development of freeze-dry dosage form]

In order to prolong shelf-life and improve the quality of the vaccine product, not only an effective stabilizer but also a more proper dosage form has been sought. The stability of a Japanese encephalitis (JE) vaccine produced from mouse brain along with a variety of stabilizers and lyophilization protocols was evaluated. Without any stabilizers added, almost 90% of the antigenicity would vanish after freeze-drying process. Comparative studies of various compounds, including carbohydrates, amino acids, peptides and medium 199, on both antigenicity preservation and thermostability of the vaccine were carried out. The results indicated that the best reconstituted vaccines were prepared with two stabilizer formulations, sucrose and sucrose/gelatin. They were further examined by accelerated stability test at room and higher temperatures. The sucrose-added lyophilized vaccine can retain its original antigenicity for more than 60 days both at 37 degrees C and 45 degrees C. We conclude the thermostability efficiency of each of the stabilizers tested is as that follows: sucrose > sucrose/gelatin > gelatin/medium > gelatin.

Relationship between velopharyngeal dimensions and palatal EMG during progressive hypercapnia

To examine the contribution of specific palatal muscles to velopharyngeal dimensions, we recorded electromyographic (EMG) activity in the levator veli palatini, the tensor veli palatini, and the palatoglossus while examining the velopharynx (VP) with videoendoscopy in eight awake normal adults. Simultaneous display of VP images and airflow provided precise timing of events. Video images and EMG signals were recorded during progressive hypercapnia. Every tenth breath was analyzed. For each selected breath, VP area, anteroposterior and lateral diameters, and EMG activity were determined at five points: beginning, middle, and end of inspiration and middle and end of expiration. VP measurements changed significantly during the respiratory cycle. Although maximum area was measured at end inspiration or middle expiration and minimum area at the beginning or end of the breath, respiratory-related changes in VP measurements and EMG activity were characterized by substantial inter- and intrasubject variability. This variability is similar to velopharyngeal behavior during nonrespiratory tasks and suggests that upper airway patency is determined by multiple factors.