[The progress on post-exposure prophylaxis of tetanus immunological preparation in adults]

The tetanus has been eliminated in the pregnancy women and newborns in China. However, there is a gap for adult tetanus immunization, and the risk of tetanus infection cannot be ignored. In order to clearly understand the effect of the tetanus to human beings and the current use of tetanus immunological preparation for adult post-exposure prophylaxis, the incidence of the tetanus, the use status of tetanus immunological preparation and recommendations for post-exposure prophylaxis at home and abroad were reviewed and summarized, which may provide academic evidence for post-exposure prophylaxis procedures and use of tetanus immunological preparation.

[Study of cytokines in peripheral blood and lung of rats exposed to hard metal dust]

Objective: To study the dynamic changes of cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and serum of hard metal lung disease (HMLDR) rats. Methods: In March 2019, the rats were randomly divided into 6 groups, each group included 8 rats: control (C) group include 3 groups, hard metal (HM) group include 3 groups. 10 mg HM were administered in HM group by using the pulmonary endotracheal tube. After 4, 8 and 12 week, the BALF and serum were collected for the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) , tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) . Results: There was no abnormality in behavior, diet and fur of rats in C and HM group at each exposure time. There was no significant difference in body weight between the two groups of rats (P>0.05) . Compared with the C group, the expression of MMP-1 in BALF of rats in HM group were significantly higher in all stages (4, 8 and 12 weeks after exposure) (P<0.05) , the expression of TIMP-1 in BALF of rats in HM group were significantly higher in 8 and 12 weeks after exposure (P<0.05) . However, there was no significant difference in serum MMP-1 and TIMP-1 levels between the two groups in each stage (P>0.05) . There was no significant difference in TNF-α. level in BALF and serum between C and HM group in all stages (P>0.05) . Conclusion: Expression of MMP-1 and TIMP-1 in BALF have reference value in the HMLD auxiliary diagnosis.

[Effects of ant disturbance on soil organic carbon cycle: A review.]

The impact of ants, as consumer and decomposer in ecosystems, on soil organic carbon pool is a hotspot in soil fauna research. Recently, effects of ants on soil organic carbon pool dynamics have been mainly documented in terms of soil macro-elements storage, physical and chemical properties, and microbial community. We summarized the effects of ant disturbance on soil organic carbon cycle. Ant nesting alters microhabitat, microclimate, and physicochemical properties of ant nested soils. By re-shaping soil microbial community structure, regulating the succession process and pattern of vegetation, ant nesting directly or indirectly affects the source, allocation, stability, and microcosmic molecular characteristics of soil organic carbon, scaling from micro, local, to landscape scale. In the future, more attentions should be paid on quantifying the contribution of ant disturbance combined with the fluctuations in environmental factors to soil carbon flux dynamics, establishing quantitative model to link and unify ant-induced soil carbon cycle process, and clari-fying mechanisms underlying the impacts of ants on the stability of soil organic carbon pool, and finally revealing the "ecological engineers" role of ants in regulating soil organic carbon cycling.

Effects of spatial variation in water quality and hydrological factors on environmental flows

Environmental flow is the quantity, timing, and quality of water flows required to sustain freshwater and estuarine ecosystems and the human livelihoods and well-being that depend on these ecosystems. Environmental flows (e-flows) are crucial parameters for ecosystem restoration. Understanding the effects of spatial variation in the hydrological and water quality factors on e-flows aids the determination of recovery prior areas and helps to improve the success rate of ecosystem restoration projects. However, few studies have investigated the effects, which severely hinder the restoration of aquatic ecosystems and the sustainable use of water resources in inland waters. This paper therefore presents a framework for studying such effects. Spatial autocorrelation, a geostatistical method, is used to analyze the spatial variation in the hydrological and water quality factors and to further analyze the effects of various factors on the spatial heterogeneity of e-flows. Four different methods including the Tennant method, wetted perimeter method, AEHRA, and integrated water quality method are integrated to comprehensively evaluate e-flows. The former three methods consider the demands of biota on the streamflow, whereas the latter considers the demands on both the streamflow and the water quality. The results show that the Tennant and wetted perimeter methods, which focus on the statistics of only streamflow, result in similar spatial distribution of e-flows; the AEHRA and integrated water quality method, which consider the effects of water quality and other hydrological factors such as flow velocity and water depth on fish, also result in a similar spatial variation. Consideration of both demands on the hydrological factors and the water quality environmental factors makes the integrated water quality method more practical, particularly in developing regions with excessive pollutant discharge into rivers. In addition, spatial variation in the hydrological and water quality factors influenced the presence of principal fish species and consequently affected the e-flows. Of the 37 water quality factors identified, water transparency had a negative impact on e-flow because the increase in transparency could reduce the number of principal fish species. Of the four hydrological factors, flow velocity and river width had positive impacts on fish because the increase in flow velocity can provide breeding sites and habitats for more fish, respectively, both of which result in increases in the numbers of principal fish species. We found that spatial variation in the hydrology and water quality factors had a profound impact on the living environments of aquatic organisms; negative changes in these factors lowered the survival probability of principal species, which changed the hierarchy and structure of the ecosystems and thus led to variation in e-flows. The results can provide priori knowledge for e-flow methods selection and a reference for ecosystem restoration helping improve the success rate of project elsewhere in the world.

[MiR-451 regulates proliferation and migration of colorectal cells by targeting MIF]

Objective: To investigate the effect and mechanism of miR-451 on the proliferation and migration of human colorectal cancer cell SW480 by targeting macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). Methods: Microarray analysis was used to screen differentially expressed microRNAs and messenger RNA in SW480 cells. Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was used to detect the expressions of miR-451 and MIF in SW480 cells before and after transfection. Cell clone formation assay and Transwell assay were used to detect the proliferation and invasion of SW480 cells, respectively. Cell scratch assay was used to detect the migration ability of SW480 cells. The TargetScan database was used to analyze the correlation between miR-451 and MIF. Dual luciferase reporter gene was used to detect the interaction of miR-451 and MIF. MTT assay was used to detect the viability of SW480 cells. Results: Compared with human normal colorectal mucosal cell FHC (1.00), the expression of miR-451 was down-regulated in SW480 cells ( 0.36±0.18, P<0.001). Knockdown of miR-451 promoted proliferation, and migration of SW480 cells. Compared with that in FHC cells, MIF expression was up-regulated in SW480 cells (2.28±0.45, P<0.001). MIF down-regulation inhibited SW480 cell proliferation, invasion and migration. MiR-451 specifically bind to the MIF 3'UTR and regulated the expression of MIF. Overexpression of miR-451 reduced while overexpression of MIF increased the viability of SW480 cells. Overexpression of MIF promoted the proliferation and migration of SW480 cells (P<0.01), reversed the effect of miR-451 suppressed proliferation and migration of SW480 cells. Conclusion: MiR-451 may regulate proliferation and migration of human colorectal cancer cells by targeting MIF.

[Effect of miR-513a-3p targeting MDM2 on proliferation, migration and invasion of gastric cancer cells]

Objective: To investigate the effects of miR-513a-3p on proliferation, migration and invasion of gastric cancer cells and its mechanism. Methods: The miR-NC (miR-negative control mimics), miR-513a-3p (miR-513a-3p mimics), anti-miR-NC, anti-miR-513a-3p, si-NC, si-MDM2 (murine double minute 2), miR-513a-3p+ pcDNA3.1 (co-transfected with miR-513a-3p and pcDNA3.1), miR-513a-3p+ pcDNA3.1-MDM2 (co-transfected with miR-513a-3p and pcDNA3.1-MDM2) were transfected into BGC-823 cells, respectively. The expression of miR-513a-3p was detected by real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and the protein expressions of cyclin D1, MMP-2, p21, E-cadherin, MDM2 were detected by western blot. The viability of BGC-823 cells of each group was detected by 3-(4, 5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2, 5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The migration and invasion of each group were detected by Transwell, the targeting relationship between miR-513a-3p and MDM2 was detected by double luciferase reporter gene assay. Results: The expression of miR-513a-3p in gastric epithelial cells GES-1 was 0.76±0.08, significantly higher than 0.21±0.02 in gastric cancer cells BGC-823 and 0.34±0.03 in MGC-803, respectively (P<0.05). The cell viabilities of the miR-NC group at 24 h, 48 h and 72 h were 0.57±0.05, 1.03±0.10, 1.43±0.14, respectively, while those of the miR-513a-3p group were 0.36±0.03, 0.48±0.05, and 0.63±0.06, respectively. The migration and invasion numbers of miR-NC group were 130±11.80 and 117±10.60, respectively, those of miR-513a-3p group were 58±5.64 and 50±5.13, respectively, and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). The cell viabilities of the si-NC group at 24 h, 48 h and 72 h were 0.53±0.05, 0.95±0.10, 1.36±0.14, respectively. Those of the si-MDM2 group were 0.39±0.04, 0.57±0.06, and 0.80±0.08, respectively. The cell migration and invasion of the si-NC group were 141±12.02 and 109±10.60, respectively, while those of the MDM2 group were 66±6.67 and 61±6.18, respectively, and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). The cell viabilities of the miR-513a-3p+ pcDNA3.1 group at 24 h, 48 h and 72 h were 0.34±0.03, 0.46±0.05, and 0.61±0.06, respectively. Those of miR-513a-3p+ pcDNA3.1-MDM2 group were 0.48±0.05, 0.82±0.08, 1.17±0.12, respectively. The migration and invasion of miR-513a-3p+ pcDNA3.1 group were 56±5.71 and 51±5.16, respectively, while those of miR-513a-3p+ pcDNA3.1-MDM2 group were 113±10.28 and 104±10.02, respectively, and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). Conclusion: miR-513a-3p may inhibit the proliferation, migration and invasion of gastric cancer cells through targeting regulation of MDM2, which will provide new targets for the prevention and treatment of gastric cancer.

Quantitative assessment of the effects of human activities on phytoplankton communities in lakes and reservoirs

Global algal blooms have been severely threatening safety of drinking water and development of socio-economy. Effective prevention and accurate control of algal blooms require a quantitative assessment of the influence of human activities and identification of priority areas. However, previous studies on the quantitative assessment of the effects of human activities on algal communities are lacking, severely hindering the effective and precise control of algal blooms. This paper proposes a quantitative assessment model to evaluate the impact intensity of human activities on phytoplankton. Applications showed that the proliferation of phytoplankton were more limited by nutrients such as total phosphorus and ammonia where waters are less influenced by human activities, yet were less limited by these nutrients where there are highly intensive human activities. The density of phytoplankton in waters increased with an increase in human activity intensity, particularly in concentrated agricultural areas, which are priority areas for the prevention and control of algal blooms. The methodologies can clearly identify key areas for algal bloom prevention and control and can provide scientific evidence for water and nutrient management throughout the world, reducing the risk of algal blooms and ensuring aquatic ecosystem health and potable water safety.

[Study on the establishment of HMLD model and the expression of KL-6/TGF-beta in rat]

Objective: To establish an animal model of hard metal lung disease (HMLD) in rats, and to screen the indications for diagnosis of HMLD. Methods: The rats were randomly divided into 5 groups, each group included 8 rats: saline group, pure cobalt group, pure tungsten carbide group, silica group and hard metal (HM) group. 10 mg subjects were administered in each group by using the pulmonary endotracheal tube. After 8 week, the lung CT scan and lung tissue pathology were observed, the serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were collected for KL-6, TGF-beta1 and TGF-beta2. Results: The lung tissue structure of HM group was destroyed, a large number of nuclear giant cells and epithelial like cells appeared in the stroma, and uncommon CT scan images appeared in the lung. KL-6, TGF-beta1, TGF-beta2 expression in each group was not the same, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05) . The expression of KL-6 and TGF-beta1 in serum was not identical in all the groups, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05) . The expression of TGF-beta2 had no significant difference between the groups (P>0.05) . Conclusion: Rats can be successfully established HMLD model, rats in vivo lung CT scan images appear abnormal, which are provided with assistant diagnostic value for HMLD. The expression of KL-6 and TGF-beta2 in serum and BALF on HMLD rats are not highly specific, and TGF-beta1 has reference value in the rat HMLD auxiliary diagnosis.

[One of the pitfalls in the surgical treatment of maisonneuve fractures: a case report]

There exist controversies in the surgical treatment of maisonneuve injury with regard to reduction and fixation of syndesmosis and management of proximal fibular fracture. It is very important for the orthopaedic surgeons to learn more techniques and avoid pitfalls from clinical practice. We summarized the clinical data of 1 failed case, a 20-year-old girl with big body weight who underwent a primary surgery for the treatment of maisonneuve fracture with minimally invasive reduction and fixation of ankle syndesmosis and posterior malleolus and open reduction and internal fixation of medial malleolus, then a revision surgery for the treatment of iatrogenic syndesmotic malreduction with open reduction and re-stabilization of ankle syndesmosis supplemented with open reduction and internal fixation of proximal fibular facture. The malreduction of distal fibula was not found until finishing the postoperative computed tomography (CT) scan 2 weeks after the primary surgery, then the patient experienced an revision surgery including removal of the screws installed primarily for fixation of ankle syndesmosis, and open reduction and internal fixation of proximal fibular fracture, and limited open reduction and re-stabilization of ankle syndesmosis. Then the patient rehabilitated regularly under the direction of the surgeon who performed these two operations, and the postoperative recovery was smooth, then the hardwares for fixation of ankle syndesmosis and fracture of proximal fibula and medial malleolus were removed at different postoperative time. The patient experienced an excellent outcome at the end of the 3-year follow-up. The reasons for the failure in this case might include the overemphasized minimally invasive technique in the process of reduction, inaccurate assessment of intraoperative fluoroscopy and postoperative radiographs, and inappropriate utilization of the reduction clamp. Attention should be paid to the fact that an obliquely placed clamp for closed reduction of diastasis of ankle syndesmosis could result in syndesmotic malreduction. The worsened alignment of the fracture end of proximal fibula observed by intraoperative fluoroscopy may alert surgeons to syndesmotic malreduction. Partial exposure of syndesmosis and anatomical reduction and fixation of proximal fibular fracture may be useful measurres to avoid malreduction of ankle syndesmosis in the surgical treatment of maisonneuve injury in some patient, especially the patient with critically destabilized ankle.

[Diagnosis and treatment for the basicervical fractures of the trochanteric region]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the rate of basicervical fractures and document their diagnosis and treatment.

METHODS

From January 2005 to May 2016, 28 basicervical fractures of the 832 trochanteric fractures were collected and evaluated. The patients were treated with multiple screws, dynamic hip screw (DHS), intramedullary nail. Via the operation time, postoperative hospitalization, loss of blood duration the operation, hidden blood loss, total blood loss, mean union time and the final follow-up Harris hip score, the characteristics of different internal fixations were compared and analyzed.

RESULTS

The incidence of basicervical fractures was 3.37% (28/832) in our study. In the intramedullary nail group (16 patients), the operation time was 55 (20,120) min, the postoperative hospitalization was 3(2, 7) d, the intraoperative blood loss was 50 (5,100) mL, the hidden blood loss was 533.37 (376.19, 987.15) mL, and the total blood loss 627.35 (406.19, 1037.16) mL. The union time and final follow-up Harris score were 6 (3, 9) months and 90.25 (74,100) min. In the DHS group (8 patients), the operation time was 87.5 (65,115) min, the postoperative hospitalization was 5.5 (2, 17) d, the intraoperative blood loss was 100 (50,300) mL, the hidden blood loss was 278.11 (202.43, 849.97) mL, and the total blood loss 580.19 (368.55, 899.97) mL . The union time and final follow-up Harris score were 5.5 (4, 12) months and 85.5 (84, 87) min. In the multiple screws group (4 patients), the operation time was 47.5 (35, 75) min, the postoperative hospitalization was 5 (2, 12) d, the intraoperative blood loss was 20 (2, 70) mL, the hidden blood loss was 150 (100.00, 412.01) mL, and the total blood loss 195.00 (120.00, 414.01) mL. The union time and final follow-up Harris score were 4 (4, 6) months and 80 (61, 97) min. The patients treated with multiple screws and intramedullary nail had a shorter operation time than the DNS group, but no obvious difference was found between the other two groups (P=0.367). Postoperative hospitalization had no significant difference among the three groups. The intraoperative bleeding was more in the DHS group, the other two groups had no significant difference (P=0.100). However, the hidden blood loss was more in the intramedullary nail group, the other two groups had no significant difference (P=0.134). The total blood loss in the intramedullary nail group was more than multiple screw group, similar to the DHS group (P=0.483). One patient treated with multiple screws underwent internal fixation failure three months after operation. The mean union time and final follow-up Harris scores had no significant difference among the three groups (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

Through this study, we found that the incidence of basicervical fractures is low. Fractures with no shift can be confirmed by preoperative X-ray. For displaced fractures, preoperative CT+3D reconstruction is recommended. Surgical treatment by closed reduction and internal fixation with DHS or intramedullary nail is shown to be very effective.

Construction and characterization of a bacterial artificial chromosome library for the allotetraploid Gossypium tomentosum

Gossypium tomentosum is a wild allotetraploid species with the (AD)5 genome. It is characterized by many useful traits including finer fiber fineness, drought tolerance, and Fusarium and Verticillium resistance. We constructed the first bacterial artificial chromosome library for Gossypium tomentosum. With high quality and broad coverage, this library includes 200,832 clones, with an average insert size of about 122 kb and fewer than 3% empty clones. Our library is approximately 10-fold the size of the (AD)5-genome (2400 Mb) and provides a 99.7% probability of isolating genes of interest or their sequences. Seven of eight simple sequence repeats markers that are located on five different chromosomes and linked with resistance to Verticillium wilt could amplify the 50 superpools and obtained one to five hits. This high capacity library will be an important genomic resource for classifying and analyzing the evolution of allotetraploid cotton species as well as for isolating disease-resistance and drought-tolerance genes.

Genetic diversity and relationship analysis of Gossypium arboreum accessions

Simple sequence repeat techniques were used to identify the genetic diversity of 101 Gossypium arboreum accessions collected from India, Vietnam, and the southwest of China (Guizhou, Guangxi, and Yunnan provinces). Twenty-six pairs of SSR primers produced a total of 103 polymorphic loci with an average of 3.96 polymorphic loci per primer. The average of the effective number of alleles, Nei's gene diversity, and Shannon's information index were 0.59, 0.2835, and 0.4361, respectively. The diversity varied among different geographic regions. The result of principal component analysis was consistent with that of unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean clustering analysis. The 101 G. arboreum accessions were clustered into 2 groups.

[Surgical treatment of inferior pole comminuted fractures of patella with new type tension band]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effectiveness of inferior pole fracture of patella treating by the new tension band.

METHODS

From Dec. 2011 to Dec. 2013, 21 patients with inferior pole fracture of patella were treated with the new tension band which consisted of cannulated screw, titanium cable and shims. There were 21 patients[10 males, 11 females, the average age was 54 years(21 to 79)],of whom,all were "fell on knees".

RESULTS

The average operation time was 89 min (57-197 min),the follow-up visits were done from 7-31 months (average 18 months), the bone healing time was from 8-12 weeks (average 10.5 weeks). The post operation assessment was done by Bostman score, from 20-30 (average 27),10 excellent,and 11 good. No complication occurred.

CONCLUSION

The new tension band is the effective treatment for inferior pole fracture of patella. The internal fixation is reliable, it is simple to operate, and patients can take exercises as early as possible. Therefore, the new tension band has a better clinical value.

Efficacy of dendritic cell-cytokine-induced killer immunotherapy plus intensity-modulated radiation therapy in treating elderly patients with esophageal carcinoma

We investigated the clinical efficacy of adoptive cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cell and dendritic cell (DC) therapy plus intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for treating elderly patients with esophageal carcinoma (EC). In total, 68 elderly patients with EC were randomized to receive IMRT plus DC-CIK immunotherapy (study group, N = 34) or IMRT only (control group, N = 34). Clinical efficacy, immune function, toxicity and side effects, and life quality were evaluated after treatment. The efficacy rate was significantly higher in the study group than in the control group. Remarkable increases were noted for quality of life and immune function in the study group relative to the control group. Regarding toxicity and side effects, compared with the control group, the study group displayed a higher fever rate, a lower incidence rate of bone marrow suppression, and a similar rate of digestive tract reactions. DC-CIK immunotherapy plus IMRT exhibited better short-term efficacy than IMRT alone in elderly patients with EC. The therapy could improve patients'quality of life and immune function, decrease bone marrow suppression, and lengthen survival time.

[Effects of land use on manganese distribution and fractions in wetland soil of Sanjiang Plain, Northeast China]

A detailed investigation was conducted to study the variations of manganese contents and fractions in soil under different land use patterns in Sanjiang Plain, Northeast China. The purpose of this work was to study the changes of manganese and its fractions during wetland cultivation and their relationships with environment factors. The results indicated that the total manganese contents (Mn(tot)) were relatively low in wetland soils. When wetland was cultivated into dry farmland (corn field), M(tot) showed an increasing trend, and when wetland was cultivated into rice paddy, Mn(tot) manifested a decreasing trend. Among the four fractions of manganese in soil, the residual part (Mn(res)) and the reducible part (Mn(red)) were predominant while the acid extractable part (Mn(ext)) and the oxidizable part (Mn(oxi)) were secondary. During the cultivation of wetlands to corn field or rice paddy, Mn(oxi) was the only part with significant change. Mn(tot) and the transformations among manganese fractions were affected by many environmental factors, with sulfur content, pH and dissolved organic carbon playing leading roles.

[Mn content in soil of Sanjiang Plain under different land use]

Mn content and its profile distribution characteristics were investigated in soils from the typical Deyeuxia angustifolia wetland, corn filed, paddy field, poplar forest and island forest in Sanjiang Plain. Results indicated that Mn content was relatively low and was in the range of 107.73-2 798.99 mg/kg with the average value of 403.24 mg/kg. Mn content significantly differed by land use (F = 9.272, P < 0.001) and was in the order of island forest > poplar forest > corn field > Deyeuxia angustifolia wetland > paddy field. On the whole, Mn content in each soil layer was in the order of corn filed > Deyeuxia angustifolia wetland > rice paddy in field and was in the order of island forest > poplar forest in the vertical direction. It suggested that Mn was enriched after wetlands were reclaimed in to the upland filed and Mn concentration was decreased when wetlands were changed into rice paddy. Correlation analysis showed that Mn content in soil significantly negatively related to pH (r = -0.279, P < 0.05), significantly positively related to sulfur (r = 0.383, P < 0.01) and dissolved organic carbon (r = 0.244, P < 0.05), and weakly related to soil organic matter and available sulfur, respectively. Changes of environmental factors had impacts on Mn species and then resulted in soil Mn content.

[Study on nutrient and salinity in soil covered with different vegetations in Shuangtaizi estuarine wetlands]

Nutrient elements and salinity in soil covered by different vegetations including Phragmites australis (Clay.) Trin., Typha orientalis Presl., Puccinellia distans Parl, and Suaeda salsa in Shuangtaizi estuarine wetlands were investigated to study their distribution characteristics and to reveal the nutrient element variation during the vegetation succession processes. Results indicated that total potassium, total phosphorus and salinity were different significantly in soil between different plant communities while available phosphorus, total nitrogen, available nitrogen, available potassium, total sulfur, iron and soil organic carbon were different insignificantly. Correlation analysis suggested that soil organic carbon were related significantly to total nitrogen, available phosphorus, available potassium, which implied that decomposition of plant litter might be the mail source of soil nitrogen and available nutrient. Salinity was significantly related to total phosphorus and iron in soil. In Shuangtaizi estuarine wetland soil, ratios of carbon to nitrogen (R(C/N)) was in the range of 12.21-26.33 and the average value was 18.21, which was higher than 12.0. It indicated that soil organic carbon in Shuangtaizi estuarine mainly came from land but not ocean and plants contributed the most of soil organic matters. There was no significant difference in R(C/N) between soil from the four plant communities (F = 1.890, p = 0.151). R(C/N) was related significantly to sol salinity (r = 0.346 3, p = 0.035 8) and was increasing with soil salinity.

Hyperhomocysteinaemia, low folate concentrations and methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase C677T mutation in acute mesenteric venous thrombosis

OBJECTIVES

Acute mesenteric venous thrombosis (AMVT) was first reported by Fagge and was recognised as a distinct clinical entity by Warreen in 1935. However, its pathogenesis is still unclear. Elevated plasma levels of homocysteine (Hcy) are associated with an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis. This case-control study examines the potential association among hyperhomocysteinaemia (hyper-Hcy), low serum folate and vitamin B(12) levels and the common C677T mutation of the MTHFR gene in patients with AMVT.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty-three patients with AMVT and 75 sex- and age-matched healthy controls were recruited, and their plasma Hcy, folate and vitamin B(12) levels were measured by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and immunological assays. The polymorphism of MTHFR C677T was detected by PCR-RFLP.

RESULTS

The mean plasma Hcy levels were significantly higher in patients with AVMT compared with controls (23.5 standard deviation (S.D.) 8.8 vs. 12.6+/-6.6micromoll(-1), P<0.01). The fasting Hcy correlated negatively with folate (AMVT: r=-0.42, P<0.01;

CONTROL

r=-0.40, P<0.01). The frequency of homozygous (TT) genotype in MTHFR C677T mutation was significantly higher in patients with AMVT than that in control subjects (33% vs. 17%; chi square (chi(2))=6.31, P<0.05; odds ratio (OR)=2.80; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.25-6.25). Compared with the control subjects, the mean serum vitamin B(12) levels were lower in patients, but it was not statistically significant (365+/-88pmoll(-1) vs. 408+/-108pmoll(-1), P>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Hyper-Hcy and low serum folate levels were associated with an increased risk of AMVT. The homozygous (TT) genotype of MTHFR gene mutation may be a crucial hereditary risk factor in the development of AMVT for a Chinese population.

Stabilization/solidification (S/S) of mercury-contaminated hazardous wastes using thiol-functionalized zeolite and Portland cement

Stabilization/solidification (S/S) of mercury-containing solid wastes using thiol-functionalized zeolite and cement was investigated in this study. The thiol-functionalized zeolite (TFZ) used in the study was obtained by grafting the thiol group (-SH) to the natural clinoptilolite zeolites, and the mercury adsorption by TFZ was investigated. TFZ was used to stabilize mercury in solid wastes, and then the stabilized wastes were subjected to cement solidification to test the effectiveness of the whole S/S process. The results show that TFZ has a high level of -SH content (0.562 mmol g(-1)) and the adsorption of mercury by TFZ conform to the Freundlich adsorption isotherm. The mercury adsorption capacity is greatly enhanced upon thiol grafting, the maximum of which is increased from 0.041 mmol Hg g(-1) to 0.445 mmol Hg g(-1). TFZ is found to be effective in stabilizing Hg in the waste surrogate. In the stabilization process, the optimum pH for the stabilization reaction is about 5.0. The optimum TFZ dosage is about 5% and the optimum cement dosage is about 100%. Though Cl(-) and PO(4)(3-) have negative effects on mercury adsorption by TFZ, the Portland cement solidification of TFZ stabilized surrogates containing 1000 mg Hg/kg can successfully pass the TCLP leaching test. It can be concluded that the stabilization/solidification process using TFZ and Portland cement is an effective technology to treat and dispose mercury-containing wastes.

Mercury, cadmium and lead biogeochemistry in the soil-plant-insect system in Huludao City

Mercury, cadmium, and lead concentrations of ashed plants and insects samples were investigated and compared with those of soil to reveal their biogeochemical processes along food chains in Huludao City, Liaoning Province, China. Concentration factors of each fragments of the soil-plant-the herbivorous insect-the carnivorous insect food chain were 0.18, 6.57, and 7.88 for mercury; 6.82, 2.01, and 0.48 for cadmium; 1.47, 2.24, and 0.57 for lead, respectively. On the whole, mercury was the most largely biomagnified, but cadmium and lead were not greatly accumulated in the carnivorous insects as expected when the food chain extended to the secondary consumers. Results indicated that concentration factors depended on metals and insects species of food chains.

[Spatial variation of heavy metals contamination in the soil and vegetables of Huludao City]

Hg, Pb, Cd, Zn, and Cu concentrations in the soil, vegetables and crop of Huludao city were investigated. The Hg, Pb, Cd, Zn, and Cu concentrations in soils of the smelting areas are 1.422, 443.1, 60.94, 4084, and 247.8 mg x kg(-1), thus 6.092, 3195, 341.7, 35 157, and 1 557 mg x kg(-1) for the maximal concentrations, respectively. Spatial distribution maps of heavy metals concentrations in top soils in Huludao City were separately laid out by using Kriging. Heavy metals spatial distribution patterns in soils show that Ph, Cd, Zn, Cu emissions from Huludao Zinc Plant are the main pollution sources of heavy metals to the top soils in Huludao City, but Hg emission from Huludao Zinc Plant and chlor-alkali industry is the main pollution source of mercury to the top soils. Heavy metals concentrations in top soils decrease exponentially with distance from the zinc smelting area. Except Hg, the exponential equation could be better to fit the variety forother heavy metals. Heavy metals in vegetable and crop cultivated around Huludao Zinc Plant are higher than from markets, suggests that heavy metals affect the local soil and crops seriously.

[Heavy metal contents in insects collected from the Huludao City suffering pollution by zinc smelting and cholor-alkai production]

14 insect species, which were classified to three groups: the herbivorous, the polyphagous and the carnivorous, and earthworms were collected from the grasslands in Huludao City, Liaoning Province, China. Mercury, cadmium and lead contents in biota were determined to discuss the heavy metal pollution in organisms. Mercury, cadmium and lead contents were 0.168, 9.19 and 12.58 mg x kg(-1) in the herbivorous insects, respectively; 0.375, 24.43 and 17.71 mg x kg(-1) in the polyphagous insects, respectively; 0.928, 29.78 and 18.39 mg x kg(-1) in the carnivorous insects, respectively. It showed that heavy metal pollution in biota in Huludao City was heavy. Bioaccumulation abilities to heavy metals significantly differed with insect species. Snails and dragonflies could accumulate more mercury than the other insects and spiders could accumulate the most cadmium and lead in all insect species. These three metals investigated in insects were all sorted as the herbivorous < the polyphagous < the carnivorous. Cadmium and lead contents between the polyphagous and the carnivorous varied slightly. Correlation analysis showed that cadmium and lead contents were significantly related, but mercury and cadmium or mercury and lead were not. It indicated that cadmium and lead in insects were from the same pollution sources while mercury was more complex.

High sensitivity and large field enhancement of symmetry broken Au nanorings: effect of multipolar plasmon resonance and propagation

The multipolar plasmon resonance and propagation of Au nanorings with symmetry broken were analyzed by using DDA and FDTD methods. Based on the multipolar plasmon resonance and propagation, we proposed ring-nanosensors with high sensitivities and optical ringnanoantennas with large local field enhancements. We revealed that the refractive index sensitivities of split nanorings are about 100% larger than those of perfect nanorings with same size; the local field intensity enhancement of split nanoring with three gaps has increased by 37% than that of dipole antennas.

[Temporal and spatial variation rule of methylmercury in water in the Second Songhua River]

The concentrations of methylmercury (MeHg) in water were investigated in both level period and flood period in the Second Songhua River. The results show that the MeHg concentrations in water of Hongshi, Shihaoxian and Ganshuigang sites are relatively higher than other sampling sites. The MeHg concentrations in the level period are higher than the flood season in most sampling sites beside Laozhou and Sifangtai sites. By comparing the MeHg concentrations in different years, the results reveal that the MeHg concentrations in 1981 decreased with the distances increasing from the sites to the pollution source. The MeHg concentrations in most sites greatly fell in 1983, when the pollution source had been ceased for one year. The concentrations approached the natural background level in most sites, however, they were over 0.35 ng x L(-1) from Zhaoyuan site to Sifangtai site. The MeHg concentrations in corresponding sites in 2006 were higher than that in 1983, but were lower than that in 1981. Moreover, the pollution level in water of the Second Songhua River was also discussed.

Optical properties of Au/Ag core/shell nanoshuttles

Au/Ag nanoshuttles with sharp tips at both ends have been synthesized in glycine solution by chemically depositing silver on gold nanorods. Strong local field in the Au/Ag nanoshuttles enhanced by longitudinal surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) were investigated by theoretical calculations and experimental measurements. At the corresponding LSPR wavelengths, the extinction cross section and nonlinear refraction of the Au/Ag nanoshuttles are about 1.5 and 8.0 times of those of the original Au nanorods, respectively.

[Total and methyl mercury contents in arthropods]

We researched mercury contents in plants and arthropods collected from the river banks in mercury polluted areas. The results show that total mercury (T-Hg) and methyl mercury (Me-Hg) in Locusta migratoria manilensis and Acrida chinensis are 0.032 - 0.402 mg x kg(-1), 0.023 - 0.362 mg x kg(-1) and 0.003 - 0.031 mg x kg(-1), 0.004 - 0.015 mg x kg(-1) while the proportion of Me-Hg to T-Hg are 3.5% - 49.7% and 2.0% - 44.4%. T-Hg in arthropods is higher than that a magnitude in non-polluted areas. As primary consumers, mercury contents in Locusta migratoria manilensis and Acrida chinensis are lower than plants they eat. That is not consistent with the non-polluted areas. Paratenodera sinensis is the second consumer and there is an obvious mercury accumulation in it. For Locusta migratoria manilensis, T-Hg decreased with the body length while for Acrida chinensis that increased following a decreasing. But Me-Hg in both increased with body length. Mercury contents in tissues of arthropods are significantly different. The order is abdomen > thorax > head. Mercury and methyl mercury contents in arthropods would lead wild birds, fowls and amphibians in the ecologic risk condition.

TEM investigations on ZnO nanobelts synthesized via a vapor phase growth

Unusual ZnO nanostructures have been successfully synthesized via selenium-controlled chemical vapor phase growth on Si (111) substrates at about 500 degrees C. The microstructure and chemical compositional characteristics of the ZnO nanomaterials have been systematically investigated by means of analytical transmission electron microscopy (TEM), including energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and electron energy-loss spectroscopy. Most of the nanostructures have a belt-like morphology with typical widths of approximately 150 nm and lengths up to several micrometers. All the investigated materials are found to be stoichiometric ZnO with a hexagonal crystal structure. The growth directions for the nanobelts are found to be [1010] and [2110] respectively. Regular-triangle and needle-like heads with diameters only approximately 25-35 nm have been found in the straight nanobelts. High-resolution TEM images indicate that all the nanostructures are single crystals and free of defects. The growth mechanisms of such interesting and unique morphologies are briefly discussed.

IFN-gamma is associated with risk of Schistosoma japonicum infection in China

Before the start of the schistosomiasis transmission season, 129 villagers resident on a Schistosoma japonicum-endemic island in Poyang Lake, Jiangxi Province, 64 of whom were stool-positive for S. japonicum eggs by the Kato method and 65 negative, were treated with praziquantel. Forty-five days later the 93 subjects who presented for follow-up were all stool-negative. Blood samples were collected from all 93 individuals. S. japonicum soluble worm antigen (SWAP) and soluble egg antigen (SEA) stimulated IL-4, IL-5 and IFN-gamma production in whole-blood cultures were measured by ELISA. All the subjects were interviewed nine times during the subsequent transmission season to estimate the intensity of their contact with potentially infective snail habitats, and the subjects were all re-screened for S. japonicum by the Kato method at the end of the transmission season. Fourteen subjects were found to be infected at that time. There was some indication that the risk of infection might be associated with gender (with females being at higher risk) and with the intensity of water contact, and there was evidence that levels of SEA-induced IFN-gamma production were associated with reduced risk of infection.

[Clonning and identification of the gene encoding specific IgE antibody-related antigen of Schistosoma japonicum]

OBJECTIVE

To obtain the gene encoding specific IgE-related antigen of Schistosoma japonicum from the cDNA library of adult Schistosoma japonicum.

METHODS

The pooled sera from 15 individuals with high levels of specific IgE antibody against SWAP were absorbed with Protein-G and used for screening of IgE-related antigen from the adult worm cDNA library of Schistosoma japonicum. The inserted cDNA was amplified by PCR and sequenced. According to the first reading frame of the sequence, a pair of new probes, in which EcoR I and Not I sites were incorporated respectively, were designed and used to amplify the target gene. Then, the gene was cloned into vector pGEM-T and subcloned into expression vector pGEX-6p-1. The fusion protein was expressed, analysed by SDS-PAGE and identified by Western blotting with the specific IgE antibody, respectively.

RESULTS

The inserted cDNA fragment from the positive clone was about 1,200 bp, with the ORF of 507 bp which encoded 169 amino acids. The deduced molecular weight of the recombinant protein was 19.3 kDa. The homology between the target gene (Sj43B) and other known DNA sequences was less than 40%. The fusion protein expressed by the recombinant vector pGEX-6p-1/Sj43B could be recognized by schistosome specific IgE antibody.

CONCLUSION

Sj43B may encode the specific IgE-related antigen of Schistosoma japonicum. The successful construction of recombinant plasmid pGEX-6p-1/Sj43B lay the groundwork for further studies on immunological characteristics and protection immunity of the recombinant protein.

[Analysis of the mitochondria-related protein of Schistosoma japonicum and its antigen epitopes]

OBJECTIVE

To sequence the cloned gene Sj338 and to identify the encoded protein and its antigen epitopes.

METHODS

The Sj338 gene fragment obtained from adult S. japonicum cDNA library amplified by PCR method was subcloned into pGEM-T vector for sequencing. The sequence of nucleotides and the characteristics of the encoded protein were analyzed by DNASIS Program and Goldkey DNA and Protein Analytical Program, and then the homology of the amino acid sequence was searched on the BLAST net.

RESULTS

The cloned rSj338 gene was demonstrated to be 487 bp containing one 459 bp ORF, encoding a protein consisted of 153 amino acids with a molecular weight of 17.6 kDa. The amino acid sequence of the recombinant protein rSj338 shared 46% identity with that of the corresponding part of human mitochondrial import receptor and 44% identity with that of the Rattus sp. mitochondrial precursor receptor. The possible antigen epitopes were predicted within the peptide fragments of 26-32 aa, 37-46 aa and 147-151 aa.

CONCLUSION

The protein encoded by rSj338 gene fragment might be the mitochondria-related protein of Schistosoma japonicum.

[Human parasite antigen-specific IFN-gamma response in schistosomitsis japonica endemic area]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the characteristics of human schistosome antigen-specific IFN-gamma response in a population in an area endemic for schistosomiasis japonica.

METHODS

Three neighboring villages were chosen on Nanshan Island of Poyang Lake. 65 egg-negative persons and 64 egg-positive ones were selected randomly from the residents aged 14-41 years according to the egg counts by Kato-Katz thick smear method. IFN-gamma was measured in the whole blood culture supernatant after stimulated by the schistosome soluble egg antigen (SEA) and soluble worm antigen preparations (SWAP). Serum isotype-restricted antibody was detected by ELISA.

RESULTS

IFN-gamma levels induced by both SEA and SWAP were increased significantly after praziquantel treatment. The SEA-specific IFN-gamma level of the uninfected group was much higher than that of the reinfected group. A negative correlation between IFN-gamma level and IgG4 production was found, reflecting that IFN-gamma might be associated with the resistance to schistosome reinfection.

CONCLUSION

The changes in IFN-gamma level might play an important role in association with the resistance to schistosome reinfection.

[Studies on human cytokine responses before and after praziquantel chemotherapy in an endemic area of schistosomiasis japonica]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the cellular immune responses in a population of an endemic area of schistosomiasis japonica and the influence of praziquantel treatment.

METHODS

Blood was taken from 129 residents (64 cases were egg-positive, 65 cases were egg-negitive) of an endemic area of Poyang Lake before and 45 days after praziquantel treatment. Cytokines induced by the schistosome soluble egg antigen (SEA) and soluble worm antigen preparations (SWAP) in the peripheral blood cells including IL-5, IL-10 and IFN-gamma were measured.

RESULTS

Among 129 cases, the cytokine levels were found much higher in egg negative individuals than in egg-positive individuals. The cytokine levels induced by both antigens were increased significantly after praziqantel treatment especially IL-5 and IFN-gamma.

CONCLUSION

The cellular immune responses in the population in schistosomiasis japonica endemic area exhibited a general trend of down-regulation and were elevated significantly after praziquantel treatment.

[Gene cloning and characterization of mitochondria-related protein of Schistosoma japonicum]

OBJECTIVE

To subclone and characterize a cDNA clone coding for Schistosoma japonicum (S.j.) mitochondria-related protein.

METHODS

The open reading frame of the fragment(Sj338/24) obtained from an adult worm cDNA library of S.j. was analysed, at the upstream and downstream of the open reading frame(ORF) the primers A and B were designed, respectively, and the cDNA fragment was used as PCR template. The Sj338 gene fragment obtained was amplified by PCR method and then subcloned into pGEM-T vector for sequencing. The gene sequence was analyzed and the target fragment was restrictedly digested and subcloned into expression vector pGEX-6P-1. The expressed recombinant protein was purified and characterized.

RESULTS

The cloned Sj338 gene was demonstrated to be 487 bp long containing one 459 bp ORF, encoding a protein with a molecular weight of 17 kDa. The nucleotide sequence of the cloned gene Sj338 had higher homology with those genes coding for mitochondrial outer membrane protein of Homo sapiens and Rattus norvegicus. The recombinant construct of pGEX-6P-1/Sj338 could be expressed efficiently and the antigenicity of its product rSj338 has been demonstrated by Western blotting.

CONCLUSION

Sj338 may be the gene coding for S.j. mitochondria-related protein and the recombinant protein may be used as a new vaccine candidate.

Down-regulation of specific antigen-driven cytokine production in a population with endemic Schistosoma japonicum infection

Schistosome antigen-driven cytokine responses and antischistosome antibody levels of residents of a Schistosoma japonicum endemic island in Poyang Lake, Jiangxi Province were studied before and 45 days after treatment with praziquantel. IL-4, IL-5, IL-10 and INF-gamma were all detected in the supernatants of whole-blood cultures after stimulation with schistosome soluble egg antigen (SEA) and soluble worm antigen preparation (SWAP). The percentages of subjects producing detectable amounts of each cytokine assayed were higher in the group who were negative by stool examination at the start of the study than in those who were initially stool positive. After praziquantel treatment the percentages of subjects producing both type I and type II cytokines increased. This suggests that the production of both types of cytokine was down-regulated in the presence of live, egg-laying S. japonicum adult worms but that this was reversible by treatment. In contrast, the antibody studies showed higher levels of SWAP and SEA-specific antibodies (IgE, total IgG, IgG4, IgM) in subjects who were originally stool-positive than in those who were stool-negative. After treatment specific IgE responses were elevated, but total IgG and IgG4 anti-SEA and IgM anti-SWAP antibody levels all fell significantly.

Construction of a novel display vector deriving from CS3 fimbriae of human enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli

Based on the prediction of the hydrophilicity, epitopes, secondary structure and flexibility of the CS3 subunit, a novel vector pCSX72 which permits the insertion of foreign epitopes into CS3 at the position of 72nd aa was constructed. Two epitopes, the VP1 of FMDV and a ten-peptides epitope of C-myc, were displayed with it respectively. Compared with the two previously-constructed vectors, the vector pCSX72 expressed the hybrid fimbriae in higher level. Mice produced dual immune response against the CS3 and the inserted epitopes when they were immunized by injecting the live recombinant bacteria intraperitoneally.

Construction and selection of the natural immune Fab antibody phage display library from patients with colorectal cancer

AIM: To construct the natural immune Fab antibody phage display libraries of colorectal cancer and to select antibodies related with colorectal cancer.

METHODS: Extract total RNA from tissue of local cancer metastasis lymph nodes of patients with colorectal cancer. RT-PCR was used to amplify the heavy chain Fd and light chain κ and the amplification products were inserted successively into the vector pComb3 to construct the human libraries of Fab antibodies. They were then panned by phage display technology. By means of Dot immunoblotting and ELISA, the libraries were identified and the Fab phage antibodies binding with antigens of colorectal cancer were selected.

RESULTS: The amplified fragments of Fd and κ gained by RT-PCR were about 650 bp. Fd and κ PCR products were subsequently inserted into the vector pComb3, resulting in a recombination rate of 40% and the volume of Fab phage display library reached 1.48 × 10⁶. The libraries were enriched about 120-fold by 3 cycles of adsorption-elution-multiplication (panning). Dot immunoblotting showed Fab expressions on the phage libraries and ELISA showed 5 clones of Fab phage anti bodies which had binding activities with antigens of colorectal cancer.

CONCLUSION: The natural immune Fab antibody phage display libraries of colorectal cancer were constructed. They could be used to select the relative antibodies of colorectal cancer.

Upregulation of functional beta(3)-adrenergic receptor in the failing canine myocardium

Altered expression and functional responses to cardiac beta(3)-adrenergic receptors (ARs) may contribute to progressive cardiac dysfunction in heart failure (CHF). We compared myocyte beta(3)-AR mRNA and protein levels and myocyte contractile, [Ca(2+)](i) transient, and Ca(2+) current (I(Ca,L)) responses to BRL-37344 (BRL, 10(-8) mol/L), a selective beta(3)-AR agonist, in 9 instrumented dogs before and after pacing-induced CHF. Myocytes were isolated from left ventricular myocardium biopsy tissues. Using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, we detected beta(3)-AR mRNA from myocyte total RNA in each animal. Using a cloned canine beta(3)-AR cDNA probe and myocyte poly A(+) RNA, we detected a single band about 3.4 kb in normal and CHF myocytes. beta(3)-AR protein was detected by Western blot. beta(3)-AR mRNA and protein levels were significantly greater in CHF myocytes than in normal myocytes. Importantly, these changes were associated with enhanced beta(3)-AR-mediated negative modulation on myocyte contractile response and [Ca(2+)](i) regulation. Compared with normal myocytes, CHF myocytes had much greater decreases in the velocity of shortening and relengthening with BRL accompanied by larger reductions in the peak systolic [Ca(2+)](i) transient and I(Ca,L). These responses were not modified by pretreating myocytes with metoprolol (a beta(1)-AR antagonist) or nadolol (a beta(1)- and beta(2)-AR antagonist), but were nearly prevented by bupranolol or L-748,337 (beta(3)-AR antagonists). We conclude that in dogs with pacing-induced CHF, beta(3)-AR gene expression and protein levels are upregulated, and the functional response to beta(3)-AR stimulation is increased. This may contribute to progression of cardiac dysfunction in CHF.

[Expression of C3 epitope of poliovirus and a ten-peptides epitope of C-myc on the surface of recombinant bacteria]

To confirm the possibility of pCSB136 and pCSX72 as vectors for displaying heterologous epitopes, the gene fragments coding for C3 epitope of poliovirus and a ten-peptides epitope of C-myc were synthesized and inserted into pCSB136 and pCSX72 respectively. The recombinants were screened by whole-strain PCR. The expression of recombinant proteins were detected by whole-cell ELISA and electronic microscopy. The results indicated the recombinant proteins were expressed as hybrid fimbriae, and the antigenicity of both CS3 and inserted epitopes kept. All results above showed vectors pCSB136 and pCSX72 could be used to display the foreign epitopes.

[An AFLP marker related to fibrogenesis in upland cotton (Gossypium hirsuturm L.)]

By using AFLP technique polymorphism analysis was performed between a fuzzlesslintless mutant line and its isogenic wild-type line, Xuzhou 142. Out of 6,360 bands produced by 64 pairs primers, a fragment, named as CF1, appearing stably in wild-type line, Xuzhou 142. This polymorphism was further verified using several normal fiber varieties and F2, F3 populations from the cross of fuzzless-lintless mutant line with a high-lint-percentage variety Yumian No. 1. The cosegregation of CF1 and fibrogenesis was proved, which suggested that CF1 can be used as a molecular marker for cotton fibrogenesis. The CF1 segment was cloned into PUCm-T Vector and then sequenced. The putative amino acid sequences, is an analogue to phenol hydroxylase alpha subunit, outer surface protein C, NADH dehydrogenase subunit 1, NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase, 2-oxoacid ferredoxin oxidoreduct and hypothetical 14.5kD protein.

Enhanced cardiac L-type calcium current response to beta2-adrenergic stimulation in heart failure

The beta2-adrenergic receptor (beta2-AR)-mediated increase in cardiac L-type Ca2+ current (I(Ca,L)) has been documented in normal subjects. However, the role and mechanism of beta2-AR activation on I(Ca,L) in heart failure (HF) are unclear. Accordingly, we compared the effect of zinterol (ZIN), a highly selective beta2-AR agonist, on I(Ca,L) in isolated left ventricular cardiomyocytes obtained from normal control and age-matched rats with HF induced by left coronary artery ligation (4 months). I(Ca,L) was measured by using the whole-cell voltage-clamp technique. In normal myocytes, superfusion of ZIN (10(-5) M) caused a 21% increase in I(Ca,L) (9.21 +/- 0.24 versus 7.59 +/- 0.20 pA/pF) (p < 0.05). In HF myocytes, the same concentration of ZIN produced a significantly greater increase (30%) in I(Ca,L) (6.20 +/- 0.24 versus 4.75 +/- 0.17 pA/pF) (p < 0.01). This ZIN-induced increase in I(Ca,L) was further augmented in both normal and HF myocytes (normal: 59 versus 21%; HF: 71 versus 30%) after the incubation of myocytes with pertussis toxin (PTX, 2 microg/ml, 36 degrees C, 6 h). These effects were not modified by the incubation of myocytes with CGP-20712A (3 x 10(-7) M), a beta1-AR antagonist, but were abolished by pretreatment of myocytes with ICI-118551 (10(-7) M), a beta2-AR antagonist. In addition, all of the effects induced by ZIN were completely prevented in the presence of an inhibitory cAMP analog, Rp-cAMPS (100 microM, in the patch-pipette solution). In conclusion, beta2-AR activation stimulates L-type Ca2+ channels and increases I(Ca,L) in both normal and HF myocytes. In HF, beta2-AR activation-induced augmentation of I(Ca,L) was increased. These effects are likely to be mediated through a cAMP-dependent mechanism and coupled with both stimulatory G protein and PTX-sensitive G protein.

[Clinical application of a new nasolacrimal stent]

Seventy-two patients(ninety-one eyes) with epiphore due to obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct underwent nasolacrimal stent of our own disign. The period postoperative follow-up was 6 to 20(mean 14.5) months. Seventy-six eyes demonstrated obvious resolution of epiphore, twelve eyes had partial resolution, and three eyes had no resolution. The success rate were 96.7%. The common complications included occluded stent and a slightly blood-stanied nasal discharge. The placement of the nasolacrimal stent is a safe simple and effective method for treatment of epiphore due to obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct.

The role of ANG II and endothelin-1 in exercise-induced diastolic dysfunction in heart failure

The diastolic dysfunction present at rest in congestive heart failure (CHF) is exacerbated during exercise (Ex). Increases in circulating ANG II and endothelin-1 (ET-1) during Ex may contribute to this response. We assessed the effect of Ex on circulating plasma levels of ANG II and ET-1 and left ventricular (LV) dynamics before and after pacing-induced CHF at rest and during Ex in nine conscious, instrumented dogs. Before CHF, there were modest increases in circulating levels of ANG II (but not ET-1) during Ex. LV diastolic performance was enhanced during Ex with decreases in the time constant of LV relaxation (tau), LV end-systolic volume (V(ES)), and LV minimum pressure with a downward shift of the LV early diastolic portion of the pressure-volume (P-V) loop. This produced an increase in peak LV filling rate without an increase in mean left atrial (LA) pressure. After CHF, the resting values of ANG II and ET-1 were elevated and increased to very high levels during Ex. After CHF, mean LA pressure, tau, and LV minimum pressure were elevated at rest and increased further during Ex. Treatment with L-754,142, a potent ET-1 antagonist, or losartan, an ANG II AT(1)-receptor blocker, decreased these abnormal Ex responses in CHF more effectively than an equally vasodilatory dose of sodium nitroprusside. Combined treatment with both ANG II- and ET-1-receptor blockers was more effective than either agent alone. We conclude that in CHF, circulating ANG II and ET-1 increase to very high levels during Ex and exacerbate the diastolic dysfunction present at rest.

Actinopolymorpha singaporensis gen. nov., sp. nov., a novel actinomycete from the tropical rainforest of Singapore

A novel actinomycete was isolated from soil in the tropical rainforest of Singapore. The cells of this actinomycete are highly pleomorphic. In the early stages of growth, most cells are of irregular squarish shape and varied sizes. Cells remain attached after cell division, often forming chains or aggregates of a few cells. Cells at the end of a chain tend to elongate. With prolonged cultivation, cells show different degrees of elongation and enlargement, producing branched hyphae of uneven thickness. At the periphery of the colony, long hyphae form, which are divided into alternating segments of elongated cells and chains of squarish cells. This actinomycete is considerably salt-tolerant, able to grow in the presence of 15% NaCl. Chemotaxonomically, it contains LL-diaminopimelic acid (DAP) in the cell wall, type PI phospholipids and MK-9(H6) as the predominant menaquinone. 16S rDNA sequence analysis assigned this actinomycete to the family Nocardioidaceae, but its 16S rDNA shared no more than 91.2% sequence similarity with other members of the family. Based on phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and phylogenetic evidence, it is proposed that this actinomycete be classified as a new species in a new genus, Actinopolymorpha singaporensis gen. nov., sp. nov.

[Clinical diagnosis of lacrimal duct obstruction by digital subtraction dacryocystography]

OBJECTIVE

To illustrate the value of digital subtraction dacryocystography in the diagnosis of lacrimal duct obstruction.

METHODS

Eighty-two normal eyes and 56 eyes with epiphora were investigated with digital subtraction dacryocystography and the dacryocystogram were studied.

RESULTS

Lacrimal drainage system imaging by the digital subtraction dacryocystography provided reliable and accurate demonstration of lacrimal duct obstruction.

CONCLUSION

Digital subtraction dacryocystography is a rapid, effective and noninvasive imaging technique, and it is helpful in the diagnosis, treatment and study of lacrimal duct obstruction.

Allopurinol enhances the contractile response to dobutamine and exercise in dogs with pacing-induced heart failure

BACKGROUND

Superoxide (O(2)(-)) generated by enhanced xanthine oxidase (XO) activity may contribute to the increased myocardial oxidative stress in heart failure (CHF). Because blocking XO with allopurinol augments myofilament Ca(2+) sensitivity in reperfusion injury and CHF, we hypothesized that it may improve adrenergic inotropic responsiveness in CHF.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We studied the effect of allopurinol on the contractile response to dobutamine and exercise in 7 chronically instrumented conscious dogs before and after producing CHF by rapid pacing. Left ventricular (LV) contractile performance was measured by the slopes of the LV end-systolic pressure-volume relation (E(ES)) and stroke work-end-diastolic volume relation (M(SW)). Before CHF, allopurinol produced no change in LV contractile performance and did not alter the response to dobutamine or exercise. After CHF, allopurinol produced significant (P:<0.05) increases in E(ES) (5.0+/-0.6 versus 3.3+/-0.6 mm Hg/mL) and M(SW). Dobutamine and allopurinol produced greater increases in E(ES) (5.4+/-0.6 versus 7.4+/-0.6 mm Hg/mL) and M(SW) (60.1+/-7.4 versus 73.7+/-4.4 mm Hg) than did dobutamine alone. After allopurinol, dP/dt(max), stroke volume, and M(SW) were higher during CHF exercise. LV diastolic pressures were lower during CHF exercise after allopurinol.

CONCLUSIONS

Allopurinol has no discernable effects on LV contractile function or adrenergic responsiveness in normal, conscious animals. In pacing-induced CHF, however, allopurinol improves LV systolic function at rest and during adrenergic stimulation and exercise.

[Immunologic properties of coli surface antigen 6(CS6) of enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli and cholera toxin subunit B expressed in Shigella flexneri 2a strain T32]

A host-plasmid balancing system composed with a delta asd mutant (FaD) of an avirulent strain (T32) of Shigella flexneri 2a and plasmid harboring asd gene was used to express enterotoxigenic E. coli surface antigen 6(CS6) and V. cholerae toxin subunit B (CTB). The results of Western blotting and ELISA showed that all of recombinant plasmids (pYX201, pYX202 and pYX203) could be maintained stably and expressed CS6 and CTB respectively in T32 without any antibiotic selection. All the recombinant bacterial strains could elicit the corresponding antibodies in rabbits. The antibodies against CTB elicited by both FaD/pYX201 and FaD/pYX203 showed to be high level, and had long prolongation time, in otherwise, the antibodies against CS6 showed to be low level, indicating that higher expression level of foreign antigen may be benefit for construction of genetic multivalent vaccine.

[Determination of cinnamaldehyde in Guizhi by HPLC]

OBJECTIVE

To establish a HPLC method for the determination of cinnamaldehyde in Guizhi.

METHOD

Cinnamaldehyde was separated by a Kromasil C18 column (4.6 mm x 200 mm) with a mobile phase of acetonitrile-0.1% phosphoric acid solution(48:52) and an UV detection wavelength of 285 nm.

RESULT

The calibration curve was linear in the range of 0.004-0.02 microliter.ml-1, with a correlation coefficient of 0.9996. The average recovery was 100.7%(n = 5), and RSD 0.3%(n = 6).

CONCLUSION

The method is simple and accurate.

[Significance of preoperative digital subtraction dacryocystography for nasolacrimal stent]

Digital subtraction dacryocystography were performed prior to placement of a nasolacrimal stent. Among the 107 eyes, the sites of obstruction were in the common canaliculus in 9 eyes, above the neck of the lacrimal sac in 12 eyes and under the neck of the lacrimal sac in 86 eyes. The placement of a nasolacrimal stent may become the treatment of choice for epiphora due to obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct at the saccular or subsaccular level. After operation, these nasolacrimal ducts after stenting were patent and epiphora was resolved completely or partially. The results suggest that the preoperative digital subtraction dacryocystography is helpful in selective indication of placement of a nasolacrimal stent and prognostic assessment of the postoperative outcome.

[The expression of p16 and Rb protein in the tissue of cervical squamous carcinoma]

OBJECTIVE

To study the aberrant expression and coexpression of protein p16 and Rb in cervical squamous carcinomas, and to evaluate whether these alterations provide causative information.

METHODS

The expressions of p16 and Rb protein were detected by treptavidin-peroxidase(S-P) immunohistochemical methods.

RESULTS

1. The p16 protein expression was mainly found in cytoplasm. The positive rate in carcinoma, CIN and normal cervix were 43.1%(25/58), 62.5%(5/8) and 70%(14/20), respectively; the positive expression were decreased in lower grade and clinical advanced cases(P < 0.05). 2. The Rb protein expression was detected in nucleus. The positive rate of Rb protein were 37.9%(22/58), 75%(6/8) and 85(17/20) in tum. The difference of the expression of Rb protein between the cervical squamous carcinoma and the normal cervix was significant(P < 0.05). The positive expression were increased in lower grade cancers(P < 0.05), and decreased in advanced cases(P > 0.05). 3. The positive rates of p16 and Rb protein in cervical squamous carcinoma showed an inverse correlation (vs = -0.4301, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

1. The abnormal p16 and Rbn expression might play an important role in the tumor genesis and the development of cervical squamous carcinoma. 2. Loss of function of both tumor suppressor genes may be an advanced event in cervical squamous carcinomas and might involve a bad prognosis.