Effects of gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone on testicular development and reproduction-related gene expression in roosters

Gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) plays a crucial role in regulating reproduction in the hypothalamus of poultry and has been intensely investigated since its discovery. This study aimed to assess the effects of GnIH on testicular development, as well as on reproduction-related hormone release and gene expression levels in roosters. The administration of exogenous GnIH resulted in a significant reduction in testis weight, testis volume and semen quality (p < 0.05). Additionally, exogenous GnIH significantly up-regulates the expression of GnIH, and down-regulates the expression of PRL (p < 0.05). GnIH application also decreased the GnRH, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and luteinizing hormone β subunit(LHβ)gene expression levels. Meanwhile, by neutralizing the effects of endogenous GnIH through immunization, testicular development on day 150 in roosters was significantly promoted. Compared to the control condition, GnIH immunization significantly down-regulated the expression of the VIP and PRL genes (p < 0.05). In conclusion, we found that exogenous GnIH treatment inhibited testicular development, reduces PRL gene expression, and suppressed reproductive performance in roosters. Conversely, GnIH immunization down-regulated VIP and PRL genes, activates the reproductive system, and promotes the reproductive activity and testicular development of roosters.

[Benchmark dose estimation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons exposure base on Bayesian kernel machine regression]

Objective: To explore benchmark dose (BMD) estimations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) based on Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) . Methods: A total of 155 adult residents of a coking plant in Shanxi Province who were surveyed in summer (June to August) from 2014 to 2019 were selected as the research objects. Fasting elbow vein blood of the subjects was collected in the morning for automatic analysis and detection of blood routine. Morning urine samples were collected for automatic analysis and detection of urine routine and urine creatinine detection. BKMR model combined with BMD method was used to calculate the acceptable doses of PAHs exposure on red blood cell damage in non-occupational population. Results: The concentration of hydroxylpolycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (OH-PAHs) in the red blood cells abnormal group (n=117) was significantly higher than that in the normal group (n=38) (P<0.01). In the combined effect of OH-PAHs, 2-hydrol-naphthalene contributed the most, and the posterior inclusion probability (PIP) value was 0.9354. When OH-PAHs ≥P(55) concentration, the joint effect on the risk of red blood cell abnormalities increased as the concentration of the OH-PAHs mixture increased. When OH-PAHs were at P(65) and P(75) concentrations, respectively, the risk of red blood cell abnormalities in adults were 3.09 and 4.98 times that of OH-PAHs at P(50) concentrations, respectively. Compared with high concentration, low concentration of OH-PAHs exposure was more sensitive to red blood cell darmage. The acceptable doses of 8 kinds of OH-PAHs were 1.010 μmol/mol Cr (2-hydrol-naphthalene), 0.743 μmol/mol Cr (1-hydrol-naphthalene), 0.901 μmol/mol Cr (2-hydroxy-fluorene) and 0.775 μmol/mol Cr (1-hydroxy-phenanthrene), 0.737 μmol/mol Cr (1-hydroxy-pyrene), 0.607 μmol/mol Cr (9-hydroxy-fluorene), 0.713 μmol/mol Cr (2-hydroxy-phenanthrene) and 0.628 μmol/mol Cr (3-hydroxybenzo[a] pyrene), respectively. Conclusion: OH-PAHs mixture has positive combined effect on red blood cell damage in non-occupational population, and low concentration of OH-PAHs exposure is more sensitive to red blood cell damage. It is recommended that the exposure dose of PAHs should be controlled within 1 μmol/mol Cr.

[The influence of different blood pressure management schemes on the quality of postoperative anesthesia recovery in elderly patients undergoing long-time gynecological laparoscopic tumor surgery]

Objective: To investigate the effect of different blood pressure management schemes on the quality of postoperative anesthesia recovery in elderly patients undergoing long-term gynecological laparoscopic tumor surgery. Methods: A total of 57 patients who underwent gynecological tumor surgery in Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine from May to October 2022 were prospectively included. The patients were randomly divided into two groups: the precise blood pressure management group [group P, n=28, aged (69.9±3.6) years] and the control group [group C, n=29, aged (68.6±3.1) years]. Group P adopted a precise blood pressure management scheme, and systolic blood pressure (SBP) fluctuated within±10% of basal blood pressure during operation, while group C adopted a routine blood pressure management scheme, which maintained SBP fluctuation within±20% of basal blood pressure during operation, and SBP≥90 mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa). The main outcome measures were the quality of anesthesia recovery (QoR-40) scores of the two groups 24 hours after the operation. The secondary outcome measures included lactate clearance rate and blood glucose change 2 hours after the beginning of the operation and immediately after the operation, post anesthesia recovery score (PARS) and sedation-agitation scale (SAS) 5 min after extubation, intraoperative norepinephrine dosage, volume of fluid administered, blood loss and urine volume, creatinine clearance rate and urea nitrogen clearance rate 24 hours after the operation, anesthesia satisfaction score, length of hospital stay and hospitalization cost, etc. Results: The QoR-40 score of group P [M (Q₁, Q₃)] 24 hours after operation was 192 (190, 195), which was higher than that of group C [170 (163, 178)] (P<0.001). The lactate clearance rates 2 hours after the beginning of the operation and immediately after the operation in group P [M (Q₁, Q₃)] were 31.0% (14.9%, 43.3%) and 21.1% (3.1%, 38.2%), which were higher than those in group C [-12.5% (-43.1%, 11.8%) and -22.2% (-61.3%, -11.1%)] (both P<0.05). The changes in blood glucose 2 hours after the beginning of the operation and immediately after the operation in group P [M (Q₁, Q₃)] were [1.1 (0.9, 1.4) mmol/L and 1.4 (0.9, 1.9) mmol/L], which were higher than those in group C [0.2 (-0.2, 0.5) mmol/L and 0.2 (-0.2, 0.5) mmol/L] (both P<0.05). The intraoperative urine volume, PARS score and SAS score 5 min after extubation, and anesthesia satisfaction score in group P [M (Q₁, Q₃)] were 400 (300, 500) ml, 8 (8, 9), 4 (4, 4) and 8 (8, 9), respectively, which were higher than those in group C [200 (100, 300) ml, 7 (7, 8), 3 (3, 3) and 6 (6, 7), respectively] (all P<0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in norepinephrine dosage, volume of fluid administered, blood loss, creatinine clearance rate, urea nitrogen clearance rate, length of hospital stay and hospitalization cost between the two groups (all P>0.05). Conclusion: The precise blood pressure management scheme of maintaining SBP fluctuation within±10% of basal blood pressure in elderly patients undergoing long-time gynecological laparoscopic tumor surgery can significantly enhance the quality of postoperative anesthesia recovery, improve the patients' satisfaction, and facilitate the patients' postoperative rehabilitation.

[Clinical effects of island posterior femoral composite tissue flaps in the repair of sinus cavity pressure ulcers in the areas of ischial tuberosity and greater trochanter]

Objective: To explore the clinical effects of island posterior femoral composite tissue flaps in the repair of sinus cavity pressure ulcers in the areas of ischial tuberosity and greater trochanter. Methods: The retrospective observational study was conducted. From December 2018 to December 2021, 23 patients with sinus cavity pressure ulcers in the areas of ischial tuberosity and greater trochanter who met the inclusion criteria were admitted to Ganzhou People's Hospital, including 16 males and 7 females, aged 45 to 86 years. The size of pressure ulcers in ischial tuberosity ranged from 1.5 cm×1.0 cm to 8.0 cm×5.0 cm, and the size of pressure ulcers in greater trochanter ranged from 4.0 cm×3.0 cm to 20.0 cm×10.0 cm before debridement. After treatment of underlying diseases, debridement and vacuum sealing drainage for 5 to 14 days were performed. All the wounds were repaired by island posterior femoral composite tissue flaps, with area of 4.5 cm×3.0 cm-24.0 cm×12.0 cm, pedicle width of 3-5 cm, pedicle length of 5-8 cm, and rotation radius of 30-40 cm. Most of the donor site wounds were sutured directly, and only 4 donor site wounds were repaired by intermediate thickness skin graft from the contralateral thigh. The survival of composite tissue flaps, wound healing of the donor and recipient sites and the complications were observed. The recurrence of pressure ulcers, and the appearance and texture of flaps were observed during follow-up. Results: A total of 32 wounds in 23 patients were repaired by island posterior femoral composite tissue flaps (including 3 fascio subcutaneous flaps, 24 fascial flaps+fascio subcutaneous flaps, 2 fascial flaps+fascial dermal flaps, 2 fascial flaps+fascio subcutaneous flaps+femoral biceps flaps, and one fascial flap+fascio subcutaneous flap+gracilis muscle flap). Among them, 31 composite tissue flaps survived well, and a small portion of necrosis occurred in one fascial flap+fascio subcutaneous flap post surgery. The survival rate of composite tissue flap post surgery was 96.9% (31/32). Twenty-nine wounds in the recipient sites were healed, and 2 wounds were torn at the flap pedicle due to improper postural changes, and healed one week after bedside debridement. One wound was partially necrotic due to the flap bruising, and healed 10 days after re-debridement. Thirty-one wounds in the donor sites (including 4 skin graft areas) were healed, and one wound in the donor site was torn due to improper handling at discharge, and healed 15 days after re-debridement and suture. The complication rate was 12.5% (4/32), mainly the incision dehiscence of the flap pedicle and the donor sites (3 wounds), followed by venous congestion at the distal end of flap (one wound). During the follow-up of 3 to 24 months, the pressure ulcers did not recur and the flaps had good appearance and soft texture. Conclusions: The island posterior femoral composite tissue flaps has good blood circulation, large rotation radius, and sufficient tissue volume. It has a high survival rate, good wound healing, low skin grafting rate in the donor site, few postoperative complications, and good long-term effect in the repair of sinus cavity pressure ulcers in the areas of ischial tuberosity and greater trochanter.

Lasers and Intense Pulsed Light for the Treatment of Pathological Scars: A Network Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapies have shown promising effects on pathological scars, but the comparative effectiveness of laser and IPL therapies has not yet been studied.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to compare and rank the efficacy of laser and IPL therapies to determine the most effective treatment method for pathological scars.

METHODS

Relevant studies published up to February 2022 were identified by searching PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CNKI, and Wanfang databases. We defined Vancouver Scar Scale score as the primary outcome. Both frequentist and Bayesian approaches were used to perform a network meta-analysis.

RESULTS

We included 25 trials with a total of 1688 participants. The rankings based on the surface under the cumulative ranking curve for the Vancouver Scar Scale score based on the Bayesian approach suggested IPL + CO2 (96.43%) > pulsed dye laser (PDL) + 1064-nm Nd:YAG (yttrium aluminum garnet) laser (86.21%) > PDL + CO2 (82.15%) > CO2 (58.97%) > 1064-nm Nd:YAG (57.03%) > PDL (52%) > 532-nm Nd:YAG (33.28%) > Er:YAG + IPL (28.38%) > Er:YAG (26.56%) > IPL (15.03%) > control (13.97%). The ranking results based on the frequentist approach were basically consistent with those based on the Bayesian approach.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the network meta-analysis showed that the combination of IPL and CO2 laser has the highest probability of being the most effective intervention. However, our conclusions must be interpreted with caution due to the relatively few evaluation indicators included in our study. Future well-designed randomized controlled trials with large sample sizes are required to confirm our conclusions.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4

[Clinical efficacy of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt for gastrointestinal hemorrhage in patients with idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension]

Objective: To explore the medium-long term efficacy of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) for gastrointestinal hemorrhage in patients with idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (INCPH). Methods: From March 2013 to July 2018, clinical data of 13 INCPH patients, including 5 males, 8 females,with gastrointestinal hemorrhage were retrospectively analyzed, who were diagnosed at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Anyang Fifth People' s Hospital and Yuncheng Central Hospital. All patients received TIPS treatment. The general information, postoperative survival rate, the incidence of rebleeding, shunt dysfunction rate, and incidence of hepatic encephalopathy were analyzed. Results: All 13 patients with INCPH completed TIPS successfully with an average age of 45±8 (33 to 59) years. The hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) decreased from 20.0-26.0 (22.6±1.9) mmHg before procedure to 8.0-14.0 (9.4±3.2) mmHg after. The median follow-up time was 44±7 (31 to 53) months. One patient died of liver failure 27 months after TIPS. Hepatic encephalopathy occurred cumulatively in 1 case (1/13), 1 case (1/13) and 1 case (1/13) in 12, 24 and 36 months after TIPS. Stent restenosis occurred cumulatively in 2 cases (2/13), 3 cases (3/13) and 3 cases (3/13) in 12, 24 and 36 months after TIPS. Portal vein thrombosis occurred cumulatively in 2 cases (2/13), and no primary liver cancer developed. Conclusions: TIPS is safe and effective in the treatment of INCPH with gastrointestinal bleeding with favorable medium-long term outcome.

[Influence of parental compliance on the treatment of hypertrophic scars in burn children]

Objective: To explore the influence of parental compliance on the treatment of hypertrophic scars in burn children. Methods: A retrospective cohort study method was used. From June 2014 to June 2019, 49 children with post-burn hypertrophic scars who met the inclusion criteria and visited the outpatient department of the Department of Burns of the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University were included in this study. In the follow-up of 9 months, according to the registration form and the results of the compliance questionnaire for parents, the children were divided into good compliance group (34 cases, 21 males and 13 females, aged 2.0 (2.0, 3.5) years) and poor compliance group (15 cases, 6 males and 9 females, aged 3.0 (2.0, 4.0) years). At the first attendance and in the follow-up of 3, 6, and 9 months, the scar scores of children in good compliance group were evaluated by Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS). At the first attendance and in the follow-up of 9 months, the scar scores of children in poor compliance group were evaluated by VSS. At the first attendance and in the follow-up of 9 months, the scar pruritus scores of children in the 2 groups were evaluated by Verbal Rating Score (VRS). Data was statistically analyzed with chi-square test, Wilcoxon rank sum test, Mann-Whitney U test, independent sample t test, and paired sample t test. Results: At the first attendance, the color, vascular distribution, softness, and thickness scores, and total score in VSS scoring of scars of children in the two groups were similar (Z=0.834, 0.026, 0.837, 0.076, 1.074, P>0.05). In the follow-up of 9 months, the softness and thickness scores, and total score in VSS scoring of scars of children in good compliance group were significantly lower than those in poor compliance group (Z=5.518, 4.732, 5.042, P<0.01). Compared with those in the first attendance, the color, vascular distribution, softness, and thickness scores, and total score in VSS scoring of scars of children in good compliance group were significantly decreased in the follow-up of 9 months (Z=5.241, 5.273, 5.214, 5.245, 3.451, P<0.01); the color and vascular distribution scores, and total score in VSS scoring of scars of children in poor compliance group were significantly decreased in the follow-up of 9 months (Z=3.606, 3.542, 3.448, P<0.01). At the first attendance, the VRS score of scar pruritus of children in good compliance group was 6.00 (5.00, 6.25) points, which was similar to (5.47±1.69) points in poor compliance group (Z=0.607, P>0.05). In the follow-up of 9 months, the VRS score of scar pruritus of children in good compliance group was 1.00 (1.00, 1.25) points, which was significantly lower than (3.27±1.71) points in poor compliance group (Z=2.606, P<0.01). Compared with those in the first attendance, the VRS score of scar pruritus of children in good compliance group was significantly decreased in the follow-up of 9 months (Z=4.002, P<0.01), while there was no obvious change in poor compliance group in the follow-up of 9 months (t=3.550, P>0.05). Conclusions: Under the same treatment plan, good parental compliance has a positive effect on the treatment of hypertrophic scars in burn children decreasing the degree of scar hyperplasia and pruritus.

[Comparison and reflection of standardization of public health management system both at home and abroad]

Objective: To better promote the standardization of public health management in China, and provide evidence for the development and improvement of the standardization strategy and management system in public health field in China. Methods: This paper summarizes and analyzes the information about the standardized management mechanism collected from international organizations related with standardization in public health. Results: The standards in public health varied in different management systems of the international organizations, and there were great differences in organization nature, standard types, application, release, organization structure, standard development principles, advantages, transformation, promotion and implementation, and evaluation. Conclusion: China can benefit from the studying of the working mechanism of the international organization related with standardization in public health to facilitate its own standardization in public health.

[Correlation between thyroid function and glucolipid metabolism in type 1 diabetic adults]

To assess the correlation between thyroid function and glucolipid metabolism in type 1 diabetic adults. A retrospective analysis was conducted in 230 type 1 diabetic adults who were hospitalized in the Department of Endocrinology of Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University from January 2008 to January 2020. It showed that thyroid stimulating hormone(TSH) was significantly positively correlated with total cholesterol (TC) (r=0.239), triglycerides (TG) (r=0.166) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (r=0.249), respectively (all P<0.05). Free triiodothyronine (FT₃) was significantly negatively correlated with fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (r=-0.272), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (r=-0.240), TC (r=-0.197) and LDL-C (r=-0.220), respectively (all P<0.05). Free thyroxine (FT₄) was negatively correlated with TC (r=-0.171) and LDL-C (r=-0.170), respectively (all P<0.05). TC was an independent predictor of TSH, FT₃ and FT₄, FT₃ and FT₄ were independent predictors of HbA1c. TSH was an independent predictor of TC, TG and LDL-C. Thyroid function is closely related to glucolipid metabolism in type 1 diabetic adults.

[Clinical characteristics of elderly and younger onset rheumatoid arthritis]

Objective: To compare the clinical and laboratory characteristics and therapy methods of elderly onset rheumatoid arthritis (EORA) and younger onset rheumatoid arthritis (YORA). Methods: The clinical, laboratory and therapeutic data of 481 RA patients in the Department of Rheumatology and Immunology in Peking University Third Hospital from January 2013 to December 2018 were collected and used to analyze the difference of characteristics between EORA group and YORA group, which might be useful for better diagnosis and treatment of EORA patients. Quantitative data of normal distribution were compared with t test between the two groups. Results: There were 481 patients in this cohort, of which 137(28.5%) were EORA, 344(71.5%) were YORA, with a mean age of (59±14) years (19-87 years). There were 358 females (74.4%) and 123 males (25.6%). The percentage of male patients was obviously higher in EORA group (36.5% vs 21.2%, χ(2)=12.012, P<0.01), and the average disease course was obviously shorter (Z=-7.985, P<0.01). Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS28) score was higher in EORA group (5.6±1.3 vs 5.2±1.6, t=2.549, P<0.05), meanwhile the incidences of pleural effusion and interstitial lung disease (ILD) were higher (6.6% vs 1.7%, 29.9% vs 18.3%, respectively; χ(2)=7.550, 7.797, both P<0.05). The incidences of venous thrombosis, primary hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cerebrovascular disease, coronary heart disease (CHD), peripheral atherosclerosis and cataract in EORA group were all significantly higher than those in YORA group (all P<0.05). Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and D-Dimer in EORA group were all remarkably higher (both P<0.05). The rate of using glucocorticoid in EORA group was higher but the rate of using methotrexate and anti-tumor necrosis factor-α agents were lower (χ(2)=5.271, 8.407, 9.356, all P<0.05). Conclusion: Compared to YORA group, the percentage of male patients and disease activity of EORA group are higher. The occurrence of pleural effusion, ILD, venous thrombosis, primary hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cerebrovascular disease, CHD, peripheral atherosclerosis and cataract in EORA group are higher than those in YORA group.

[A novel mutation of SCN4A gene causes hypokalemic periodic paralysis in a Chinese family]

Objective: To report a Chinese family with hypokalemic periodic paralysis (HOKPP) and investigate the clinical and pathogenic gene characteristics of the family. Methods: The clinical, electrophysiological and pathological data of the proband of the family were analyzed, and the information of the family was investigated in detail. The peripheral venous blood of the six members of the family was collected and their genomic DNA was extracted. The genes related to periodic paralysis analysis of the proband were performed by the second generation sequencing. The pathogenicity of the mutant protein was respectively analyzed by the bioinformatics software SIFT, Polyphen2 and Mutation Tasker. The cosegregation analysis of phenotype and genotype of the family was performed by the first generation sequencing. Results: There were 3 patients in the family with the onset age of 21 to 42 years old. All the patients manifested with vomiting as the first symptoms, then presented with muscle weakness accompanied by muscle soreness. The muscle weakness gradually relieved in 3 to 5 days. Creatine kinase (CK) of the proband significantly increased. Electromyographic exercise test was positive, however, electromyography and muscle pathological analysis were normal. The genes related to periodic paralysis analysis of the proband found a novel mutation (c.2458A>T (p.N.820Y)) of SCN4A gene which was located in the conservative region. The function analysis showed it was a pathogenic mutation. Moreover, the first generation sequencing confirmed that the mutation was cosegregated with patients in the family. Meanwhile, it was found that the proband's son carried the same mutation, but without any symptom, indicating that he was a pre-symptomatic patient. Conclusions: Vomiting can be one of the symptoms of the patients with HOKPP. The novel mutation of SCN4A gene c.2458 A>T is the pathogenic mutation of the family. Patients with periodic paralysis should be tested for blood potassium and genes as early as possible to facilitate early diagnosis and genetic counseling.

[Application of aldosterone/direct renin ratio before drug washout in the screening of primary aldosteronism]

Objective: To explore the cut-off point of aldosterone/direct renin ratio (ADRR) before drug washout in the screening for primary aldosteronism (PA) in the Chinese population and reduce the potential risk caused by drug washout during PA screening. Methods: Hospitalized hypertensive patients in the Hypertension Ward of Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences from January 2017 to October 2019 were enrolled. PA was diagnosed according to the criterion of 2016 American Guideline and 2016 Chinese Consensus for PA. The plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC), direct renin concentration (DRC) and ADRR before and after drug washout were measured. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of ADRR was drawn and the maximal Youden index was used to determine the best cut-off value. Results: A total of 542 hypertensive patients were included, with 467 patients diagnosed with essential hypertension (EHT) (297 males and 170 females), and 75 patients diagnosed with PA (51 males and 24 females). Patients with PA had higher PAC and ADRR before and after drug washout than those with EHT(150.0 (130.0, 210.0) vs 120.0 (80.0, 170.0) ng/L, 170.0 (120.0, 260.0) vs 130.0 (90.0, 180.0) ng/L; 28.9 (15.9, 63.5) vs 4.3 (1.9, 11.8) (ng/L) / (mU/L) , 55.6 (39.0, 109.0) vs 9.8 (4.5, 21.3) (ng/L) /(mU/L), all P<0.001). However, DRC of PA patients before and after washout were lower than those with EHT (4.0 (2.0, 10.0) vs 27.0 (10.0, 64.0) mU/L, 3.0 (2.0, 4.0) vs 12.2 (5.0, 27.0) mU/L, P<0.001). In EHT and PA groups, PAC and ADRR significantly increased (P=0.001, P<0.001) , but DRC significantly decreased after drug washout (all P<0.001) . The area under the ROC curve of ADRR before drug washout was 0.868 (95%CI 0.836-0.895) with the best cut-off value of 7.8 (ng/L) / (mU/L) for the screening of PA .The sensitivity and specificity was 94.7% and 66.8%, respectively, with the maximal Youden index of 0.615. Conclusion: ADRR before drug washout > 7.8 (ng/L) / (mU/L) can be used as an alternative cut-off point to screen PA when drug washout is not available.

[Association of Urinary Phenol Concentration and Blood Biochemical Indices in Coke Oven Workers]

Objective: To explore the association of urinary phenol concentration and blood biochemical indices in coke oven workers. Methods: From April to may 2019, we investigated 771 employing coke oven workers from a coke plant in Taiyuan city, and categorized into benzene-exposed group (n=402) and control group (n=369) based on their benzene exposures in workplace and urophenol concentrations. All subjects were interviewed face-to-face using a questionnaire including name, age (year) , gender, smoking and drinking habits, personal vocational history, working length (year) , and occupational protection, etc. Post-shift urine samples detected using a gas chromatography-hydrogen flame ionization detector. Fasting venous blood was drawn in the morning and centrifuged, the separated serum were detected the following items using an automatic blood biochemistry analyzer. Covariance and multiple linear regression were used to test the association of urinary phenol concentration and the levels of all the blood biochemical indices. Results: The subjects were predominantly males (n=719, 93.3%) , with an average age of (42.3±8.2) years and an average working length of (20.6±8.2) years. Compared with the control group, the benzene-exposed group were significantly different in age, working length of years, gender, smoking and drinking habits (P<0.05) . The median (interquartile interval) concentration of urinary phenol was 6.00 (0.00-33.00) μg/ml in the benzene-exposed group, which was significantly higher than that in the control group (P<0.05) . Covariance analysis indicated that the fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol and high density cholesterol in the benzene-exposed group were significantly reduced compared with the control group, yet the serum creatinine, serum uric acid and triglyceride were significantly increased (P<0.05) . Multiple linear regression showed that, an increase of each natural logarithm (Ln) transformed urinary phenol concentration was significantly associated with increases in serum uric acid level [9.82 (95%CI: 2.18-17.47) μmol/L] and cholesterol level[0.10 (95%CI:0.00-0.20) mmol/L]. An increase of each Ln-transformed accumulated benzene exposure levels was significantly associated with an increase in total cholesterol level[0.09 (95%CI: 0.01-0.17) mmol/L]. Conclusion: Occupational benzene exposure is possibly related to the variation of purine and total cholesterol metabolism in coke oven workers.

[Study of reactive oxygen species and adiponectin for chronic HBV infection combined with nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases]

Objective: To investigate the application value of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and adiponectin (ADPN) in the judgment of liver inflammation in chronic hepatitis B virus infection combined with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Methods: A total of 159 cases with NAFLD (21 cases), chronic hepatitis B virus infection (57 cases), and chronic hepatitis B virus infection combined with NAFLD (81 cases) were collected between June 2016 to December 2018, and the visited patients diagnosis were confirmed by histopathological examination of the liver. ROS and ADPN level retained in serum was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Histopathological examination of liver tissue was used as the gold standard to discuss the diagnostic value of the serum in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection combined with NAFLD for the occurrence of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. One-way analysis of variance was used for the comparison among multiple groups, and LSD-t test was used for pairwise comparison between groups. Measurement data for non-normal distributions were expressed as M (P25, P75). Comparisons between groups were performed using the Mann-Whitney U or Kruskal-Wallis H test. Chi-square test was used to compare the count data between groups. Correlation analysis was performed using Spearman correlation analysis. Histopathological grouping of liver tissue was used as the gold standard, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of the regression formula. Results: (1) In patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection combined with NAFLD, the levels of ROS in the non-hepatic steatosis group and the mild hepatic steatosis group were significantly lower than those in the moderate and severe hepatic steatosis group, while the ADPN level in the non-hepatic steatosis group was significantly higher than liver steatosis group, P < 0.05. (2) The results of correlation analysis showed that ROS was significantly correlated with NAS score, change in the degree of fatty liver and lobular inflammation (all P < 0.05).There was a significant negative correlation between ADPN and the change in the degree of fatty liver (P < 0.05). (3) Logistic regression analysis results showed that the diagnostic formula for chronic hepatitis B virus infection combined with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis was 0.02 × controlled attenuation index + 0.584 × white blood cells/10(9) + 0.587 × ROS-10.982. The area under receiver operating characteristic curve of the subject was = 0.896. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value were 97.1%, 71.2%, 64.2%, and 97.9%. Conclusion: ADPN and ROS have certain reference value in differentiating the change in the degree of fatty liver and inflammation in chronic hepatitis B virus infection combined with NAFLD and the diagnostic formula has higher application value in the diagnosis and exclusion of chronic hepatitis B virus infection combined with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis.

Improving the performance of optical antenna for optical phased arrays through high-contrast grating structure on SOI substrate

A novel optical antenna for optical phased arrays is proposed and simulated. A high-contrast grating structure is used to achieve extremely efficient emission. The emission efficiency is as high as 93.94% at 1.55 μm, which exceeds 50% in a range of wavelength from 1.48 μm to 1.62 μm. The antenna can achieve a perfect grating lobe suppression with background suppression of 28.4 dB when the phase difference between adjacent waveguides is 0. A 16-wire optical phased array can easily achieve a scan range of ± 22.8° × 20.2° with a beam width of 2.4° × 2.5°, by employing the optical antenna proposed.

ROR2 modulates neuropathic pain via phosphorylation of NMDA receptor subunit GluN2B in rats

BACKGROUND

Neuropathic pain, a type of chronic pain as a result of direct central or peripheral nerve damage, is associated with significant quality of life and functional impairment. Its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We investigated whether ROR2, a member of the receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor (ROR) family, participates in modulation of neuropathic pain.

METHODS

Thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia were measured using radiant heat and von Frey filament testing. Immunofluorescence staining was used to detect expression of ROR2 in neuronal nuclei. Fos expression was determined by immunocytochemistry. Phosphorylation status was detected by western blot and immunoprecipitation. Small interfering RNA was used to knock down ROR2 expression.

RESULTS

ROR2 was upregulated and activated in spinal neurones after chronic constriction injury (CCI) in mice [1.3 (0.1) to 2.1 (0.1)-fold of sham, P<0.01] from Day 1-21. CCI induced significant demethylation of the CpG island in the ROR2 gene promoter [0.37 (0.06) vs 0.12 (0.03)% CpG methylation, P<0.001]. Knockdown of ROR2 in the spinal cord prevented and reversed CCI-induced pain behaviours and spinal neuronal sensitisation [Fos expression: 130 (12) vs 81 (8) cells, P<0.05; 120 (11) vs 70 (7) cells, P<0.05]. In contrast, activation of spinal ROR2 by intrathecal injection of Wnt5a induced pain behaviours and spinal neuronal sensitisation [Fos expression: 11 (1) vs 100 (12) cells, P<0.001] in wild-type mice. Furthermore, ROR2-mediated pain modulation required phosphorylation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor 2B subunit (GluN2B) at Ser 1303 and Tyr1472 by pathways involving protein kinase C (PKC) and Src family kinases. Intrathecal injection of GluN2B, PKC, or Src family kinase-specific inhibitors significantly attenuated Wnt5a-induced pain behaviours.

CONCLUSIONS

ROR2 in the spinal cord regulates neuropathic pain via phosphorylation of GluN2B, suggesting a potential target for prevention and relief of neuropathic pain.

[The clinical significance of circulating follicular helper T cells in patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic myeloperoxidase antibody-associated vasculitis]

Objective: To investigate the change of circulating follicular helper T cells (cTfh) in patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic myeloperoxidase antibody-associated vasculitis (MPO-AAV), and to analyze the relationship between cTfh and disease activity. Methods: Thirty-eight untreated MPO-AAV patients (patient group) and thirty-eight healthy volunteers (control group) were enrolled in this study. cTfh and membrane expression of inducible co-stimulator (ICOS) and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) were detected by flow cytometry (FCM). Serum anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic myeloperoxidase antibody (MPO-ANCA) was measured by ELISA. Disease activity was evaluated by Birmingham vasculitis activity score (BVAS). Results: Compared with those in control group, the proportions of cTfh, ICOS(+)Tfh and PD-1(+) Tfh cells in patient group were significantly higher [(25.9±3.8)% vs. (21.0±5.3)%, P<0.001; (1.8±0.8)% vs. (0.8±0.5)%, P<0.001 and (10.2±2.8)% vs. (8.2±2.2)%, P=0.001, respectively]. Meanwhile, the expression of ICOS and PD-1 on cTfh in patient group was markedly more intensive (59.6±10.0 vs.49.2±6.9, P<0.001 and 532.6±104.2 vs. 485.1±73.4, P=0.025, respectively). In patient group, the proportion of cTfh was positively correlated with the ratio of ICOS(+)Tfh, the expression of ICOS, the level of MPO-ANCA and BVAS (r=0.407, P=0.011; r=0.705, P<0.001; r=0.737, P<0.001 and r=0.663, P<0.001, respectively). The expression intensity of ICOS on cTfh was positively associated with ICOS(+)Tfh ratio, serum MPO-ANCA and BVAS (r=0.388, P=0.016; r=0.645, P<0.001 and r=0.653, P<0.001, respectively). Nevertheless, the expression of PD-1 on cTfh was only positively correlated with the ratio of PD-1(+) Tfh (r=0.473, P=0.003). Conclusions: Enhanced cTfh in patients with MPO-AAV might produce MPO-ANCA, which is related to the aggravation of MPO-AAV. Thus, cTfh and its ICOS could be potentially targeted for the treatment of MPO-AAV.

[Altered expression and clinical significance of plasma PDGF in patients with myasthnia gravis]

Objective: To evaluate the expression and clinical significance of plasma platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) in the patients with myasthenia gravis (MG). Methods: Plasma samples from 44 MG patients and 34 healthy people were collected from August 2015 to December 2016 from the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University. The expression of PDGF was detected by MILLIPLEX MAP Reagent kit. Furthermore, we analyzed the associations between PDGF expression level and quantitative myasthenia gravis score (QMG). Result: The expression of PDGF in plasma was significant lower in MG patients (5.8±1.3) compared with control group (10.1±2.2), and the difference was statistically significant (t'=-9.767, P<0.001). Meanwhile it was positively related to QMG (r=0.777, P<0.01). However, no significant difference in expression of PDGF in MG subgroups was observed. Conclusion: The expression of PDGF decreases in MG patients, has positive correlation with MG severity, and is not related to age, sex and the pathology of thymus samples.

[Clinical and genetic characteristics of Gitelman syndrome in 5 pedigrees]

Objective: To investigate the clinical and genetic characteristics of 5 pedigrees of Gitelman syndrome (GS), and summarize its advances in genetics, diagnosis and management. Methods: Five families with GS were identified and total genome DNA were extracted from the peripheral blood of all the family members. The exons and their flanking introns of SLC12A3 gene were amplified by PCR and screened for mutation using Autoassembler 2.0 software. Results: Six heterozygous SLC12A3 gene mutations were found in the five pedigrees, including two complex combination of deletion and insertion mutation (c.486-490delTACGGinsA and c. 965-1_969delgCGGACinsACCGAAA and c. 976-977delGT). These mutations were predicted to change the normal protein structure. Conclusion: These 6 SLC12A3 mutations are the major cause of the five pedigrees of GS.

[The significances of peripheral neutrophils CD(55) and myeloperoxidase expression in patients with myeloperoxidase-specific anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody associated vasculitis]

Objective: To investigate the expression of CD(55) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) on neutrophils in patients with MPO-specific anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody associated vasculitis(MPO-AAV), and analyze the relationship between the expression and clinical manifestation. Methods: Forty untreated patients with active MPO-AAV (patient group) and 30 healthy volunteers (control group) were enrolled in this study. The CD(55) on neutrophils and both membrane and cytoplasmic MPO were detected by flow cytometry. Serum fragment-from the activated complement factor B(Ba) and MPO were measured by ELISA. The clinical activity of vasculitis was valued by Birmingham vasculitis activity score-version 3(BVAS-V3). The significance of laboratory data was evaluated by Spearman correlation test and multivariate linear regression analysis. Results: (1)The mean fluorescence intensity(MFI) of CD(55) expressed on neutrophils was significantly higher than that in control group[4 068.6±2 306.0 vs 2 999.5±1 504.9, P=0.033]. Similar results of serum MPO and Ba in patient group were found compared to controls [500.0(381.0, 612.7) IU/L vs 286.9(225.5, 329.1) IU/L, P<0.001; 35.2(25.2, 79.5) ng/L vs 18.0(15.0, 28.0) ng/L, P<0.001], respectively. However, MIF of cytoplasmic MPO in patients was significantly lower than that of control group(1 577.1±1 175.9 vs 3 105.3±2 323.0, P=0.003) . (2) In patient group, cytoplasmic intensity of MPO was negatively associated with the serum levels of MPO(r=-0.710, P<0.001) and Ba (r=-0.589, P=0.001). Moreover, serum MPO was positively associated with serum Ba(r=0.691, P<0.001). Membrane intensity of CD(55) on neutrophils was positively correlated with patient age (r=0.514, P=0.001), C reactive protein (r=0.376, P=0.018), peripheral neutrophils count (r=0.485, P=0.001) and BVAS-V3 (r=0.484, P=0.002), whereas negative correlation between membrane CD(55) and disease duration was seen (r=-0.403, P=0.01). (3) The result of multiple linear regression analysis showed there was statistically significant positive correlation between MFI of CD(55) expressed on neutrophils and BVAS-V3 (β=0.001, P=0.027). Conclusions: In MPO-AAV, CD(55) expression on neutrophils is markedly enhanced, which is one of the independent risk factors related to disease activity. It might protect neutrophils from attacking AAV, CD(55) expression on neutrophils is markedly enhanced, which is one of the independent risk factors related to disease activity. It might protect neutrophils from attacking by complement alternative pathway. Activated neutrophils release more MPO and lysosome to intensify the inflammation reaction and aggravate the disease. Thus CD(55) might become a new potential target for the treatment of this disease in the future.

Numerical and Experimental Investigation on Water-Me2SO Mixing in Microfluidic Device for Oocyte Cryopreservation

BACKGROUND

Oocyte vitrification is a practical tool in assisted reproductive technology and fertility preservation. However, vitrification requires high concentration of cryoprotectants (CPAs), which may cause osmotic injury and is toxic to oocytes during the addition and removal process of CPAs.

OBJECTIVE

To minimize osmotic and toxic injuries, a microfluidic device was designed to provide continuous concentration changes of CPAs to oocytes.

METHODS

Numerical simulations were first used to investigate the effects of geometric parameters of microchannel on water- Me₂SO mixing performance. A microfluidic device was then fabricated via soft lithography. Distilled water and 30 percent Me₂SO containing 1mM fluorescence dye FITC were mixed using the microfluidic device to verify the CPA diffusion behavior.

RESULTS

The mixing performance in the microfluidic device strongly depends on the channel geometry and the flow rates of the fluids. Linear CPA loading profiles with diverse slopes were obtained by controlling the flow rate and the loading time of CPA and the buffer solution in the microfluidic device.

CONCUSION

The designed microfluidic device can yield linear CPA loading profiles with different slopes.

[Clinical, biochemical and gene mutation characteristics of short chain acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase deficiency by neonatal screening]

Objective: To investigate the incidence, clinical, biochemical and gene mutation characteristics of short chain acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase deficiency (SCADD). Method: From January, 2009 to October, 2015, a retrospective analysis of the urine organic acids and acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase (ACADS) gene mutation characteristics of patients diagnosed as SCADD by newborn screening using tandem mass spectrometry in Department of Genetics and Metabolism (Newborn screening Center of Zhejiang Province), Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine. Dietary guidance, life management and supplementation of L-carnitine were conducted, and growth and intelligence development were observed during follow-up among the SCADD patients. Result: A total of 1 430 024 neonates, seventeen cases were diagnosed with SCADD with an incidence of 1/84 117. All patients had no clinical symptoms, and intelligence and physical development were normal. Blood butylacyl-carnitine (C4) levels and the ratios increased, C4 0.713.14 μmol/L(reference value 0.03-0.48 μmol/L), C4/C2 0.07-0.23(reference value 0.01-0.04), C4/C3 0.65-2.04(reference value 0.05-0.39). Thirteen with increased urinary ethyl malonic acid (9.30-90.99 mg/g creatinine (reference value 0-6.20 mg/g creatinine )), one patient was accompanied by increased methyl succinic acid (12.33 mg/g creatinine(reference value 0-6.40 mg/g creatinine)), one subject with increased acetylglycine (3.52 mg/g creatinine(reference value 0-0.70 mg/g creatinine)). A total of 13 known mutations were detected in the ACADS gene, 1 homozygous mutation (c.1031A>G), the others are compound heterozygous mutations. One frameshift mutation (c.508_509delGC) and 12 missense mutations were detected. Common mutation were c. 1031A>G(35.3%), c. 164C>T(20.6%) and c. 991G>A(11.8%). SCADD in newborn screening program had no clinical symptoms and normal growth development after 8-42 months follow-up. Conclusion: Cases with SCADD had no clinical symptoms with an incidence of 1/84117. The c. 164C>T and c. 1031A>G may be the common mutations.

[Effect of standardized treatment on reactivity of toe microcirculation in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of standardized treatment on reactivity of the lower limb terminal microcirculation in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by high frequency ultrasound combined with warm bath.

METHODS

A total of 66 patients with T2DM were collected from June 2014 to May 2015 in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University.According to the vascular complications , the patients were divided into group A without complications (36 cases)and group B with complications (30 cases). Hemodynamic parameters such as peak systolic velocity(PSV), end-diastolic velocity(EDV) and resistance index(RI) of the right plantar digital artery on fibular side of the 1st toe were acquired through Doppler in all subjects.Then the above operation were performed repetitively on all subjects after the right foot was immersed in 40 ℃ warm water for 5 minutes.The change rates of PSV, EDV and RI were calculated after warm bath.All subjects were examined again after three months treatment .The growth rates of the change rate of PSV, EDV and RI were calculated after treatment.All parameters were analyzed.

RESULTS

The change rates of the parameters in group B before and after treatment were lower than those of group A, before treatment (0.108±0.077 vs 0.184±0.091, P=0.037, 0.184±0.101 vs 0.380±0.167, P=0.002, 0.007±0.004 vs 0.015±0.008, P=0.028 7), after treatment (0.155±0.111 vs 0.421±0.138, 0.287±0.108 vs 0.794±0.286, 0.012±0.008 vs 0.039±0.014, P=0.000); the post treatment growth rates of the change rates of the parameters in group B were all less than those of group A (0.414±0.303 vs 2.192±2.673, P=0.048, 0.660±0.406 vs 1.422±1.075, P=0.042, 0.633±0.830 vs 2.191±2.269, P=0.048). The change rates of the parameters in two groups after treatment were higher than those before treatment (all P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Warm bath test can be used to detect change degree of hemodynamic parameters in patients with T2DM so as to evaluate reactivity of blood microcirculation, which has a certain clinical application value in treatment.

Genetic diversity and population structure of Castanopsis eyrei based on simple sequence repeat markers

Castanopsis eyrei (Fagaceae) is one of the dominant tree species in mid-subtropical, evergreen, broad-leaved forests. We obtained 14 pairs of simple sequence repeat (SSR) primers from previous studies, which were used to analyze 90 C. eyrei individuals from three populations at different altitudes. Low heterozygosity was detected (Fis = 0.6124), and the observed heterozygosity was lower than the expected heterozygosity, possibly because of inbreeding and/or the population substructure. The genetic differentiation between populations was relatively low (Fst = 0.0645); only 7% of the total genetic variation occurred between populations. The medium-altitude population had higher genetic diversity than the low-altitude or high-altitude populations.

[Impact of long-term continuous positive airway pressure treatment for patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the long-term efficacy of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment for patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS).

METHODS

This case control study was performed among 154 patients with moderate or severe OSAS between September 2009 and September 2014. Patients were divided into treatment group (n=66, 53 patients with hypertension) and control group (n=88, 67 patients with hypertension). The long-term efficacy of CPAP treatment on clinical events and blood pressure was evaluated.

RESULTS

The combined incidence of death, myocardial infarction, coronary revascularization and stroke events was 1.5% (1/66) in treatment group and 11.4% (10/88) in control group (P<0.05). CPAP treatment also led to more significant reduction in systolic blood pressure ((12.24±18.06) mmHg(1 mmHg=0.133 kPa) to (4.24±16.63) mmHg, P<0.05) in the patients with hypertension in these two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

CPAP treatment could reduce the risk of cardiovascular and neurovascular events for patients with moderate or severe OSAS.

Effect of Nanoparticles on the Survival and Development of Vitrified Porcine GV Oocytes

BACKGROUND: Some mammalian oocytes have been successfully cryopreserved by vitrification. However, the survival and developmental rate of vitrified oocytes is still low. The incorporation of nanoparticles into cryoprotectant (CPA) may improve the efficiency of vitrification by changing the properties of solutions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The toxicity of different concentrations of hydroxy apatite (HA), silica dioxide (SO₂), aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) and titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles (20 nm in diameter) to oocytes was tested and the toxicity threshold value of each nanoparticle was determined. Porcine GV oocytes were vitrified in optimized nano-CPA, and effects of diameter and concentration of nanoparticles on the survival rate and developmental rate of porcine GV oocytes were compared.

RESULTS

HA nanoparticles have demonstrated the least toxicity among four nanoparticles and the developmental rate of GV-stage porcine oocytes was 100% when its concentration was lower than 0.5%. By adding 0.1% HA into VS, the developmental rate of GV-stage porcine oocytes (22%) was significantly higher than other groups. The effect of vitrification in nano-CPA on oocytes was related to the concentration of HA nanoparticles rather than their size. By adding 0.05% HA nanoparticles (60nm in diameter), the developmental rate increased dramatically from 14.7% to 30.4%.

CONCLUSION

Nano-cryopreservation offers a new way to improve the effect of survival and development of oocytes, but the limitation of this technology shall not be ignored.

Expression levels of survivin, Bcl-2, and KAI1 proteins in cervical cancer and their correlation with metastasis

Cervical cancer is associated with abnormal expression of multiple genes. Survivin and Bcl-2 proteins are apoptosis inhibitors. The tumor suppressor gene CD82, which encodes the protein KAI1, is downregulated in cervical cancer, and is associated with differentiation degree. We investigated the expression levels of three proteins and their correlation with metastasis in cervical cancer by comparing them in different cervical lesions. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect their three protein expression levels in the normal cervix, chronic cervicitis, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) lesions, and cervical cancer. The relationships between the protein expression levels and tumor type, clinical stage, tissue differentiation, invasion, and metastasis were analyzed. Survivin and Bcl-2 expression levels in cervical cancer were significantly higher than in the normal cervix, chronic cervicitis, or CIN (P < 0.05). KAI1 expression was markedly lower in cervical cancer than in the normal cervix, chronic cervicitis, or CIN (P < 0.05). There was no statistical difference between the expression levels of the three proteins in CIN and chronic cervicitis, but there were differences in expression between CIN and normal cervical tissues (P < 0.05). Bcl-2 and survivin levels were positively correlated while KAI1 expression was negatively correlated with clinical stage. Survivin and KAI1 expression levels were associated with lymph node metastasis (P < 0.05), and KAI1 expression was positively related with differentiation degree (P < 0.05). Survivin, Bcl-2, and KAI1 are metastasis-related factors in cervical cancer. Overexpression of survivin and Bcl-2, and low expression of KAI1 promotes cervical cancer progress and metastasis.

Positive selection sites in tertiary structure of Leguminosae chalcone isomerase 1

Isoflavonoids and the related synthesis enzyme, chalcone isomerase 1 (CHI1), are unique in the Leguminosae, with diverse biological functions. Among the Leguminosae, the soybean is an important oil, protein crop, and model plant. In this study, we aimed to detect the generation pattern of Leguminosae CHI1. Genome-wide sequence analysis of CHI in 3 Leguminosae and 3 other closely related model plants was performed; the expression levels of soybean chalcone isomerases were also analyzed. By comparing positively selected sites and their protein structures, we retrieved the evolution patterns for Leguminosae CHI1. A total of 28 CHI and 7 FAP3 (CHI4) genes were identified and separated into 4 clades: CHI1, CHI2, CHI3, and FAP3. Soybean genes belonging to the same chalcone isomerase subfamily had similar expression patterns. CHI1, the unique chalcone isomerase subfamily in Leguminosae, showed signs of significant positive selection as well as special expression characteristics, indicating an accelerated evolution throughout its divergence. Eight sites were identified as undergoing positive selection with high confidence. When mapped onto the tertiary structure of CHI1, these 8 sites were observed surrounding the enzyme substrate only; some of them connected to the catalytic core of CHI. Thus, we inferred that the generation of Leguminosae CHI1 is dependent on the positively selected amino acids surrounding its catalytic substrate. In other words, the evolution of CHI1 was driven by specific selection or processing conditions within the substrate.

Microsatellite marker analysis reveals the distinction between the north and south groups of hard clam (Meretrix meretrix) in China

Meretrix meretrix is one of the important commercial bivalves in China. A total of 198 individual clams were collected from 5 locations characteristic of the clam's 5 main natural habitats in China, that is, Shandong, Jiangsu, Fujian, Guangdong, and Guangxi. Ten polymorphic microsatellite markers were selected to examine the genetic diversity and identify genetic differences between the 5 populations. A total of 183 alleles across 10 loci were detected in the individual clams. The observed heterozygosity and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.197 to 0.7026 and from 0.6264 to 0.9408, respectively. The genetic diversity within samples was high (8.6-11.2 alleles per locus, observed heterozygosity = 0.25-0.875 and expected heterozygosity = 0.6848-0.9259). Most of the genotype distributions significantly deviated from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Genetic structure analysis showed that the 5 populations could be divided into 2 groups, the north and south groups. Neighbor-joining analysis revealed a clear distinction between the north group (Shandong and Jiangsu) and the south group (Fujian, Guangdong, and Guangxi). Locus MM1031 was used to distinguish between groups. Our results can be used for population identification and crossbreeding of M. meretrix.

Characterization and molecular mapping of stripe rust resistance gene Yr61 in winter wheat cultivar Pindong 34

We report a new stripe rust resistance gene on chromosome 7AS in wheat and molecular markers useful for transferring it to other wheat genotypes. Several new races of the stripe rust pathogen have established throughout the wheat growing regions of China in recent years. These new races are virulent to most of the designated seedling resistance genes limiting the resistance sources. It is necessary to identify new genes for diversification and for pyramiding different resistance genes in order to achieve more durable resistance. We report here the identification of a new resistance gene, designated as Yr61, in Chinese wheat cultivar Pindong 34. A mapping population of 208 F2 plants and 128 derived F2:3 lines in a cross between Mingxian 169 and Pindong 34 was evaluated for seedling stripe rust response. A genetic map consisting of eight resistance gene analog polymorphism (RGAP), two sequence-tagged site (STS) and four simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers was constructed. Yr61 was located on the short arm of chromosome 7A and flanked by RGAP markers Xwgp5467 and Xwgp5765 about 1.9 and 3.9 cM in distance, which were successfully converted into STS markers STS5467 and STS5765b, respectively. The flanking STS markers could be used for marker-assisted selection of Yr61 in breeding programs.

Spinal ephrinB/EphB signalling contributed to remifentanil-induced hyperalgesia via NMDA receptor

Background

One of the major unresolved issues in treating pain is the paradoxical hyperalgesia produced by opiates, and accumulating evidence implicate that EphBs receptors and ephrinBs ligands are involved in mediation of spinal nociceptive information and central sensitization, but the manner in which ephrinB/EphB signalling acts on spinal nociceptive information networks to produce hyperalgesia remains enigmatic. The objective of this research was to investigate the role of ephrinB/EphB signalling in remifentanil-induced hyperalgesia (RIH) and its downstream effector.

Methods

We characterized the remifentanil-induced pain behaviours by evaluating thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia in a rat hind paw incisional model. Protein expression of EphB1 receptor and ephrinB1 ligand in spinal dorsal horn cord was determined by Western blotting, and Fos was determined by immunohistochemistry assay, respectively. To figure out the manner in which ephrinB/EphB signalling acts with N-methyl-d-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor, we used MK-801, an antagonist of NMDA receptor, trying to suppressed the hyperalgesia induced by ephrinB1-Fc, an agonist of ephrinB/EphB.

Results

Continuing infusion of remifentanil produced a thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia, which was accompanied with increased protein expression of spinal-level EphB1 receptor, ephrinB1 ligand and Fos; what appeared above was suppressed by pretreatment with EphB1-Fc, an antagonist of ephrinB/EphB or MK-801, and increased pain behaviours induced by intrathecal injection of ephrinB1-Fc, an agonist of ephrinB/EphB, were suppressed by MK-801.

Conclusions

Our findings indicated that ephrinB/EphB signalling is involved in RIH. EphrinB/EphB signalling might be the upstream of NMDA receptor.

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Identification of Yr59 conferring high-temperature adult-plant resistance to stripe rust in wheat germplasm PI 178759

This manuscript reports a new gene for non-race-specific resistance to stripe rust and molecular markers for incorporating it into wheat cultivars for control of the disease with durable resistance. Stripe rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici, is one of the most destructive wheat diseases worldwide. The spring wheat germplasm 'PI 178759' originating from Iraq showed effective resistance to stripe rust in field evaluations over 8 years in Washington state, USA. To map the resistance gene(s), PI 178759 was crossed with 'Avocet Susceptible', and the parents and 176 F2:3 lines were phenotyped in the fields under natural infection and in a greenhouse with selected races of P. striiformis f. sp. tritici. PI 178759 was identified to have high-temperature adult-plant (HTAP) resistance. Resistance gene analog polymorphism and simple sequence repeat techniques were used to identify molecular markers linked to the resistance gene and a chromosome region was mapped using a quantitative trait locus approach. One major gene was mapped to the long arm of chromosome 7B. Flanked by Xwgp5175 and Xbarc32 in a 2.1 cM region, the gene explained 31.8 and 54.7 % of the phenotypic variation in rAUDPC and IT, respectively. Based on genetic distances among markers and allelism tests, the HTAP resistance gene in PI 178759 is different from the previously reported Yr39, Yr52, YrZH84, and YrC591, also located on chromosome 7BL, and is therefore designated as Yr59. The gene and its flanking markers should be useful for developing wheat cultivars with durable resistance.

Rescue from dominant follicle atresia by follicle-stimulating hormone in mice

We investigated the effects of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) on atresia of the dominant follicle and changes in relevant apoptosis genes in granulosa cells of dominant follicles regulated by FSH in vivo. Four-week-old mice were administered FSH by intraperitoneal injection to induce follicular maturation. Granulosa cells of dominant follicles were collected at 48, 72, and 96 h after the first FSH injection. Phosphate-buffered saline was injected as a control. The mRNA levels of relevant granulosa cell apoptosis genes were examined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and apoptosis of granulosa cells in dominant ovarian follicles was determined by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay. Apoptosis in granulosa cells of dominant follicles was almost TUNEL-negative at 48, 72-66, 72, and 96-90 h after the first FSH injection, but granulosa cell apoptosis in dominant follicles was clearly detected at 96, 102, and 102-96 h by TUNEL. The BIM, caspase-3, and caspase-9 mRNA expression levels were significantly lower after FSH treatment at 72-66 and 96-90 h, compared with that at 72 and 96 h (P < 0.05). Caspase-8 and FasL mRNA expressions did not respond to FSH. FSH rescued granulosa cells from apoptosis when the relevant apoptosis genes were upregulated in early atretic follicles. FSH did not rescue granulosa cells from apoptosis if the DNA was cut into fragments by endonucleases. Thus, the rescue by FSH of granulosa cells from apoptosis and dominant follicle atresia may be accomplished by inhibition of apoptosis in mitochondria.

Enhanced metabolic function of human hepatocytes cryopreserved with low concentration me2so and polyol additives at -80C

The metabolic function of cryopreserved cells, in addition to cell viability after thawing, is an important parameter in any successful cryopreservation protocol. Dimethyl sulfoxide (Me2SO) is known to affect the differentiation of recovered cells. In this study, we report that sugars and sugar alcohols increases cell recovery, and also improves the metabolic function of human hepatocytes that are cryopreserved using low concentration Me2SO (5%). Three sugars (glucose, sucrose, and trehalose) and three sugar alcohols (xylitol, maltol, and sorbitol) have been tested. Cell viability after thaw and 24-h post-thaw attachment rate of cryopreserved human hepatocytes were assessed. Post-thaw metabolic activities (albumin, glucose, urea content) were measured, and cell proliferation was observed with inverted microscope. Cell viability, post-thaw attachment rate and metabolic activity of cryopreserved hepatocytes are enhanced by the addition of 0.4M sorbitol into 5% Me2SO solution. The study concludes that 5% Me2SO + 0.4M sorbitol can replace the 10% Me2SO method for cryopreservation of human hepatocytes at -80C freezer. The new solution may reduce the side effects on the patients and improve the safety of using cryopreserved hepatocytes.

Heat transfer coefficient of cryotop during freezing

Cryotop is an efficient vitrification method for cryopreservation of oocytes. It has been widely used owing to its simple operation and high freezing rate. Recently, the heat transfer performance of cryotop was studied by numerical simulation in several studies. However, the range of heat transfer coefficient in the simulation is uncertain. In this study, the heat transfer coefficient for cryotop during freezing process was analyzed. The cooling rates of 40 percent ethylene glycol (EG) droplet in cryotop during freezing were measured by ultra-fast measurement system and calculated by numerical simulation at different value of heat transfer coefficient. Compared with the results obtained by two methods, the range of the heat transfer coefficient necessary for the numerical simulation of cryotop was determined, which is between 9000 W/(m(2)·K) and 10000 W/(m (2)·K).

Soybean oligosaccharides alter colon short-chain fatty acid production and microbial population in vitro

This study was conducted to the determine fermentation characteristics of soybean oligosaccharides (SBOS) in an in vitro system. Digesta collected from the colon of Huanjiang mini-pigs was used as inoculums, and SBOS (0.2 g per 10 mL fermentation broth) was used as substrate during the in vitro fermentation. The inoculum or inoculum + glucose (0.2 g) was used as negative or positive control, respectively. The slurry was fermented in an anaerobic chamber and gas production (GP) recording was taken after 48 h of incubation by referring to the moving scale on the plunger of the glass syringes, and then GP parameters, pH value, NH(3)-N content, short chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels, and microbial community in the fermentation broth were determined. For gas production parameters, pH, and fermentation product determination after 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 28, 32, 36, 42, and 48 h of incubation, SBOS and glucose demonstrated similar responses compared to control including increase maximal gas production, decreased lag time, decreased pH, and accumulation of NH(3) and increased SCFA. The exception was rate of GP, which was higher (P < 0.05) for SBOS compared with glucose. Incubation with SBOS increased (P < 0.05) the microbial diversity and population of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus but decreased (P < 0.05) Escherichia and Streptococcus when compared with incubation with glucose. These findings suggested that the SBOS can improve the gut microbiota balance in colon and modulate its metabolism.