Co-adsorption enhancement of formaldehyde/carbon dioxide over modified hexagonal boron nitride for whole-surface capture purification

Simultaneous capture of formaldehyde (HCHO) and carbon dioxide (CO2) in indoor air is promising of achieving indoor-air purification. Of all potential adsorbents, hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) is one of the most suitable species owing to facile formation of attraction points. Therefore, in this study, performances of HCHO and CO2 being adsorbed over pure/modified h-BN are systematically investigated via density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Minutely speaking, direct interaction between HCHO and CO2, single-point adsorption enhancement of HCHO over modified h-BN, co-adsorption reinforcement of HCHO/CO2 as well as relevant thermodynamic characteristics are major research contents. According to calculation results, there is relatively strong attraction between HCHO and CO2 owing to hydrogen bonds, which is in favor of co-adsorption of HCHO/CO2. As to single-adsorption of HCHO, C-doped h-BN shows better adsorption features than P-doped h-BN and C/P-doped h-BN is slightly weakened in adsorption ability due to surficial deformation caused by P atoms. For co-adsorption of HCHO/CO2, CO2 is the protagonist via formation of quasi-carbonate with the help of delocalized π-orbital electrons. Regarding effects of temperatures on adsorption strengths, they depend on interelectronic interactions among dopant atoms and finally derives from dispersion of π bonds across adsorbents. Overall, this study provides detailed mechanisms for co-capture of HCHO/CO2 to accomplish indoor-air purification.

[Efficacy and safety analysis of bupivacaine liposome for pericapsular nerve group block for postoperative analgesia in elderly patients with hip replacement]

Objective: To investigate the efficacy and safety of bupivacaine liposome for pericapsular nerve group block (PENGB) for postoperative analgesia in elderly patients with total hip replacement. Methods: A total of 42 elderly patients underwent total hip replacement were selected in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from May to July in 2023, including 19 males and 23 females, aged (68.8±6.3) years, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade Ⅰ to Ⅲ. They were divided into bupivacaine liposome group (observation group) and levobupivacaine hydrochloride group (control group) according to random number table, with 21 cases in each group. All the patients were anesthetized by lumbar anesthesia combined with PENGB. During PENGB, the observation group was injected with 10 ml (133 mg) bupivacaine liposome+5 ml normal saline, and the control group was injected with 10 ml (75 mg) levobupivacaine hydrochloride+5 ml normal saline. The primary outcome measures included the rest and movement visual analogue scale (VAS) scores at 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, and 72 h after operation, the sufentanil consumption in analgesic pump, the numbers of analgesic pump compressions, and the rates of additional parexib sodium use in ward. The secondary outcome measures were the changes in lower limb muscle strength, the length of hospital stay and the occurrence of adverse reactions. Results: There was no significant difference in the rest and movement VAS scores between the two groups at pre-operation and at 6 h after operation (P>0.05);but the rest and movement VAS scores at 12, 24, 36, 48, 60 and 72 h after operation in observation group were significantly lower than those in control group (P<0.05); the rest and movement VAS scores at 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, 60 and 72 h after operation were lower than those at pre-operation in two group (P<0.05). The consumption of sufentanil in analgesic pump and parexib sodium usage in observation group were lower than those in control group at 12, 24, 36 and 48 h after operation (P<0.05). The total number of analgesic pump compressions, the number of effective compressions and the number of ineffective compressions in 48 h in observation group were lower than those in control group (P<0.05). The muscle strength of the lower limbs of all patients were able to move against gravity at 12 h after operation. The incidence of nausea in 48 h after operation in observation group was 9.5% (2/21), which was lower than 42.9% (9/21) in control group (P=0.014). No postoperative vomiting occurred in all patients. The length of the hospital stay was (9.3±2.2) d in observation group and (8.9±1.9) d in control group, and there was no significant difference between the two groups (P=0.500). Conclusion: Compared with levobupivacaine hydrochloride, liposomal bupivacaine in PENGB provides analgesic effects for up to 72 h after total hip replacement in elderly patients, reduces postoperative opioid and other analgesics usage, decreases the incidence of postoperative nausea, and has a minor effect on lower limb movement without prolonging hospitalization.

Research progress of vanadium pentoxide photocatalytic materials

Photocatalytic reactions convert solar energy into chemical energy through a clean and green reaction process. Photocatalytic technology based on semiconductor materials provides us with a new idea in energy utilization and environmental governance. It was found that vanadium pentoxide (V₂O₅) has a narrow band gap, wide response range in the visible region, high oxygen density in the V₂O₅ lattice, high oxidation state of V⁵⁺, small energy requirement, and superior catalytic activity in partial oxidation. Therefore, the utilization rate of sunlight and photocatalytic oxidation can be greatly improved using V₂O₅ materials. However, the narrow band gap of V₂O₅ also makes it easier for the photogenerated electrons and holes to recombine in the excited state, and the stored energy is instantly consumed by carrier recombination. Therefore, how to promote the carrier separation of V₂O₅ and improve the photocatalytic efficiency are the key problems to be solved. Herein, several methods to improve the photocatalytic performance of V₂O₅ are reviewed, including metallic ion doping, non-metallic ion doping, semiconductor recombination, and noble metal deposition. Finally, it is suggested that future research directions should focus on a variety of modification methods simultaneously to promote photocatalytic efficiency and lower the cost, which will enable V₂O₅ to have a broad development prospect in the field of photocatalysis.

[Association of sleep duration and risk of frailty among the elderly over 80 years old in China: a prospective cohort study]

Objective: To explore the association between sleep duration and the risk of frailty among the elderly over 80 years old in China. Methods: Using the data from five surveys of the China Elderly Health Influencing Factors Follow-up Survey (CLHLS) (2005, 2008-2009, 2011-2012, 2014, and 2017-2018), 7 024 elderly people aged 80 years and above were selected as the study subjects. Questionnaires and physical examinations were used to collect information on sleep time, general demographic characteristics, functional status, physical signs, and illness. The frailty state was evaluated based on a frailty index that included 39 variables. The Cox proportional risk regression model was used to analyze the correlation between sleep time and the risk of frailty occurrence. A restricted cubic spline function was used to analyze the dose-response relationship between sleep time and the risk of frailty occurrence. The likelihood ratio test was used to analyze the interaction between age, gender, sleep quality, cognitive impairment, and sleep duration. Results: The age M (Q₁, Q₃) of 7 024 subjects was 87 (82, 92) years old, with a total of 3 435 (48.9%) patients experiencing frailty. The results of restricted cubic spline function analysis showed that there was an approximate U-shaped relationship between sleep time and the risk of frailty. When sleep time was 6.5-8.5 hours, the elderly had the lowest risk of frailty; Multivariate Cox proportional risk regression model analysis showed that compared to 6.5-8.5 hours of sleep, long sleep duration (>8.5 hours) increased the risk of frailty by 13% (HR: 1.13; 95%CI: 1.04-1.22). Conclusion: There is a nonlinear association between sleep time and the risk of frailty in the elderly.

[Quit intention and smoking cessation behavior of current smokers aged 15 years and above in China, 2018]

Objective: To describe the current situation on quit intention and quit attempts among current smokers aged 15 years and above in China and explore the main factors affecting their smoking cessation behaviors. Methods: The subjects were people aged 15 years and above in China. A stratified multi-phased randomized cluster sampling method was used. The survey covered 200 districts/counties in 31 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities directly under the central government), including 19 376 people under investigation. The data were weighted with SAS 9.4 for complex sampling analysis, and the frequency and weighted component ratio were used for description. The influencing factors were studied using the Rao Scott χ² test and unconditional multivariate logistic regression. Results: Among current smokers, 6.63% reported that they planned to quit smoking in the next month, 5.44% for men and 8.49% for women. 17.96% of the current smokers made quit attempts in the past 12 months, with 17.80% men and 22.15% women. People who smoke occasionally (OR=3.42, 95%CI: 2.09-5.59) made quit attempts in the past (OR=4.91, 95%CI: 0.33-0.52) and knew that smoking would lead to three diseases (OR=2.24, 95%CI: 1.48-3.40) had higher quit intention. People who occasionally smoke (OR=1.68, 95%CI: 1.20-2.34) received smoking cessation suggestions from medical staff (OR=1.96, 95%CI: 1.62-2.37), were a ware of that smoking causes three diseases (OR=1.63, 95%CI: 1.32-2.02) and had smoking prohibition regulations in indoor areas of their homes, had a higher rate of quit attempts. Conclusion: Providing effective smoking cessation intervention services and creating a supportive tobacco control environment are significant in promoting smoking cessation behavior.

[Study on smoking behavior and its changes among Chinese people aged 15 years and above in 2018]

Objective: To describe the current status of smoking among Chinese people aged 15 and above and analyze its epidemic evolution. Methods: A stratified multi-phased randomized cluster sampling design of the Global Adult Tobacco Survey was used. The cross-sectional survey was conducted from July to December 2018, covering 200 districts/counties in 31 provinces of China. Field data was collected through in-house face-to-face interviews by trained investigators using a tablet computer. 19 376 individual questionnaires were completed, with an overall response rate of 91.50%. The data were weighted for complex sampling and analyzed with SAS 9.4. Results: In 2018, the current smoking prevalence of adults aged 15 and above was 26.59%, with that higher among males (50.47%) than among females (2.07%) and higher among those in rural (28.87%) than among those in urban areas (25.05%). The quitting rate was 20.10%, with a higher rate among females (30.22%) than males (19.64%). However, there was no significant difference between rural and urban areas (P=0.864). Compared with the previous data, the smoking rate tends to drop, with a substantial decrease among the 25-44 age groups and 45-64 age groups. The most significant decline occurs among those with higher education (Junior college and above). In addition, in 2018, current daily smokers aged 15 and above in China started to smoke daily at an average age of 20.95 years old. For current smokers, 16.00 cigarettes were consumed each day on average. Conclusion: Although the current smoking prevalence among the Chinese population aged 15 and above tends to decrease, the decreasing speed is too slow to achieve the target set in the Healthy China Action (2019-2030). Consequently, much more effective efforts to control tobacco need to be enforced.

[Analysis of exposure to tobacco advertisement and promotion among Chinese adults aged 15 years and above, 2010 and 2018]

Objective: To investigate the exposure to tobacco advertisements and promotions among Chinese adults aged 15 and above, identify the publicity channels and forms of tobacco advertising and promotion in 2010 and 2018, and implicate further tobacco control measures in China. Methods: A multistage, stratified, randomized cluster sampling design was used in 2010 and 2018 China Adult Tobacco Survey, with national representativeness. 13 354 and 19 376 permanent residents were selected in the 2010 and 2018 surveys. SAS 9.4 software was applied for data analysis, and all the data were weighted based on a complex sampling design. Rao Scott χ2 test was used for group comparison of a single factor. Results: In 2010 and 2018, 19.61% and 18.14% of the survey respondents did see tobacco advertising and promotion. From 2010 to 2018, there was no significant change in the situation of tobacco advertisements and promotions. Among those who had gone to a cigarette shop, the proportion of seeing tobacco advertisements increased from 29.28% in 2010 to 43.28% in 2018. Among those who had seen tobacco advertisements on TV, the rate fell from 50.93% in 2010 to 28.58% in 2018. Among those who had gone to movie theaters, the proportion of seeing tobacco advertisements increased from 2.17% in 2010 to 9.89% in 2018. Among those who had used the Internet, the proportion of seeing tobacco advertisements online rose from 19.20% in 2010 to 42.30% in 2018. In terms of tobacco promotion, the percentages of people who had seen tobacco promotions, cigarette price discounts, cigarette discount coupons, gifts, and other preferential activities in various places in the past 30 days were 4.99% vs. 9.30%, 0.78% vs. 4.09%, 0.04% vs. 0.33% and 0.98% vs. 3.33% in 2010 and 2018, respectively (P<0.001). Conclusions: Tobacco advertising and promotion are still prevalent in China, with no significant change in 2010 and 2018. Tobacco advertising and promotion have been with the constant changes and development of media platforms. It is necessary to improve the implementation of relevant policies, comprehensively ban tobacco advertisements and promotions, and strengthen the supervision of ads and promotions.

[Secondhand smoke exposure and its influencing factors among Chinese people aged 15 years and above in 2010 and 2018]

Objective: To investigate secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure among non-current smokers aged 15 and over and its influencing factors in China in 2010 and 2018. Methods: The 2010 and 2018 China Adult Tobacco Surveys used multistage stratified cluster random sampling methods to obtain national representative samples across 31 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) in China. This study selected non-current smokers aged 15 and over as the research subjects to describe the general demographic characteristics, perceptions of SHS hazards, attitudes towards smoking bans in indoor areas in public places, and SHS exposure and the smoking restriction regulations in different places. The Rao-Scott χ2 test was used to compare the rates, and the unconditional logistic regression was used to analyze the influencing factors of SHS exposure. All the subjects in the analysis were weighted based on a complex sampling design. Results: Among non-current smokers aged 15 and over, from 2010 to 2018, the percentage of indoor smokers had decreased from 84.7% to 71.9%. The rates of people who saw smoking in various places declined with a statistically significant difference (P<0.001). The exposure to SHS for females, people aged 45-64, teachers, medical staff, workers in enterprises, businesses, waiters, and people who live in rural and central areas declined. The differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). In 2018, the percentage of SHS exposure for those who reported a comprehensive smoking ban in households or allowed smoking in certain areas was lower than for those who reported allowed or without a smoking ban. Among those aged 25-44, SHS exposure for those who reported complete smoking prohibition in workplaces was lower than those who reported allowed or without smoking prohibition (OR=0.65, 95%CI: 0.49-0.87). The proportion of SHS exposure for those who believe that smoking should not be allowed in indoor areas of 0-5 public places is higher than that smoking should not be allowed in the indoor spaces of 8 public places (OR=2.13, 95%CI: 1.35-3.36). Among people aged 45-64, the proportions of SHS exposure for teachers (OR=0.37, 95%CI: 0.17-0.78) and medical staff (OR=0.35, 95%CI: 0.16-0.76) and staff working in agriculture, forestry, animal husbandry, fishery, and water conservancy were lower than governmental staff (OR=0.49, 95%CI: 0.29-0.84). Conclusions: Data from the decreased exposure of Chinese non-current smokers aged 15 and over to SHS suggests the initial achievement through constructing a smoke-free environment, but continued efforts are needed. It is necessary to actively advocate for smoke-free families, strengthen publicity and education on the hazards of tobacco and SHS, and improve the skills of non-smokers in rejecting SHS exposure.

Controllable Synthesis of Mo3C2 Encapsulated by N-Doped Carbon Microspheres to Achieve Highly Efficient Microwave Absorption at Full Wavebands: From Lemon-like to Fig-like Morphologies

Mo₃C₂@N-doped carbon microspheres (Mo₃C₂@NC) have been discovered to be a family of superior microwave absorbing materials. Herein, Mo₃C₂@NC was synthesized through a simple high-temperature carbonization process by evaporating a graphite anode and Mo wire in Ar and N₂ atmospheres with an N-doping content of 6.4 at. %. Attributing to the self-assembly mechanism, the number of Mo wires inserted into the graphite anode determined the morphologies of Mo₃C₂@NC, which were the unique lemon-like (1- and 2-Mo₃C₂@NC) and fig-like (3-, 4-, and 5-Mo₃C₂@NC) microstructures. 1- and 2-Mo₃C₂@NC exhibited powerful reflection losses (RLs) of -45.60, -45.59, and -47.11 dB at the S, C and X bands, respectively, which corresponded to thinner thicknesses. 3-, 4-, and 5-Mo₃C₂@NC showed outstanding absorption performance at the C, X, and Ku bands, respectively, with each value of a minimum RL less than -43.00 dB. In particular, the strongest RL (-43.56 dB) for 5-Mo₃C₂@NC corresponded to an ultrathin thickness of 1.3 mm. In addition, the maximum effective absorption bandwidth was 6.3 GHz for 4-Mo₃C₂@NC. After analysis, all Mo₃C₂@NC samples showed well-matched impedance due to the enhanced dielectric loss caused by the unique carbon structure and moderate magnetic loss derived from the weak magnetic property of Mo₃C₂. More importantly, the unique lemon-like and fig-like microstructures created sufficient interfaces and differentiated multiple reflection paths, which greatly contributed to the strong microwave absorptions at full wavebands. In full consideration of the simple preparation method and tunable absorption properties, Mo₃C₂@NC composites can be regarded as excellent electromagnetic wave absorption materials.

Optimized nano-metal particles filled into carbon nanohorns to achieve high N-doping amount and high porosity for enhanced oxygen evolution reaction

Nano-metal-filled N-doped carbon materials have been actively verified as promising alternatives for precious-metal catalysts in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Herein, Ni/Fe/Cu-filled N-doped carbon nanohorns (CNHs) are synthesized via a positive pressure assisted arc discharge method using a Ni/Fe/Cu rod charged in an anode hole in a N₂ and Ar mixture. We first found that the amount of N atom doping can be controlled by the types of nano-metal particles encapsulated by CNHs. The content of N atoms on CNHs uniquely depended on the initial Ni wires inserted into the anode graphite; increasing the number of Ni wires induced the enrichment of N atoms until 3.56 at%, whereas the content of N atoms for Cu- and Fe-filled CNHs is against the results; loading Cu and Fe nanoparticles decreases the N-doping amount. And the morphologies and N-configurations can be changed by the types of metal nanoparticles. Furthermore, the OER performance of Ni-filled CNHs is much superior to that of Cu- and Fe-filled CNHs, which can be significantly enhanced by the tip opening structure, and the increase in Ni loading amount and the N atom content.

The Ni-filled CNHs achieve excellent OER performance, attributing to the high N-doping amount and high porosity of CNHs.

Optimized Nanopores Opened on N-Doped Carbon Nanohorns Filled with Fe/Fe2O3 Nanoparticles as Advanced Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction

N-doped carbon nanohorns filled with Fe nanoparticles (Fe-N-CNHs) were produced by one-step positive pressure-assisted arc discharge in the Ar and N₂ mixture. After oxidation treatments in air, Fe was converted into Fe₂O₃, and nanopores were opened on CNHs from 1 to 5 nm controlled by oxidation temperature. Fe-N-CNHs oxidized in O₂ at 550 °C (Fe₂O₃-N-CNH550ox) show 245 mV at 20 mA cm^-1, which is much smaller than that of the ones oxidized at 500 °C (Fe₂O₃-N-CNH500ox), contributing to the larger pore size on CNHs (3-5 nm vs 2-3 nm) and a larger number of nanopores caused by the enhanced sidewall nanopores. However, the stability of Fe₂O₃-N-CNH550ox becomes much poorer than that of Fe₂O₃-N-CNH500ox after 2000 cycles. The unique relationship between the overpotential and long-term stability can be explained by the consideration of the size of Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles and nanopores on CNHs. Furthermore, the stability for Fe₂O₃-N-CNH550ox can be rapidly increased after heat treatment in Ar for 1 h caused by shrinking the size of tip nanopores. Herein, we first reveal that the performance of OER is related to the nanopore size of carbon carriers and the catalyst of nanometal particles. The optimization of pore-opening conditions in carbon carriers can be achieved a superior electrocatalytic OER performance, including a low overpotential at high current density and long-term stability.

Controllable synthesis of N-doped carbon nanohorns: tip from closed to half-closed, used as efficient electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction

The development of efficient, cost-effective and stable N-doped carbon material with catalytic activity as an excellent catalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is critical for renewable energy systems. In this study, the unique tip-half-closed N-doped carbon nanohorns (THC-N-CNHs) were firstly produced by the positive pressure-assisted arc discharge method using N₂ as the nitrogen source. Benefitting from the novel tip-half-closed structure and sufficient porosity, the specific surface area (SSA) of THC-N-CNHs is calculated to be 670 m² g^-1 without any further treatment, which is three times larger than that of traditional tip-closed CNHs. More importantly, the content of nitrogen can achieve ∼1.98 at% with noticeable pyridinic-N enrichment, increasing the number of active sites for the OER. Furthermore, the three-dimensional spherical feature and the unique pore structure for THC-N-CNHs lead to the fast transportation of electrons, and facile release of the evolved O₂ bubbles during the OER process. Therefore, THC-N-CNHs exhibit excellent electrocatalytic activity toward the OER, with an overpotential of 328 mV at 10 mA cm^-2, which is superior to that of most N-doped carbon material-based electrocatalysts. Meanwhile, the resulting catalyst also shows excellent durability after long-term cycling. Finally, we emphasize that THC-N-CNHs can be promising candidates as cheap, industrially scalable catalytic scaffolds for OER application.

Ni-Based Nanoparticle-Embedded N-Doped Carbon Nanohorns Derived from Double Core-Shell CNH@PDA@NiMOFs for Oxygen Electrocatalysis

The development of highly efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) plays a crucial role in many regenerative electrochemical energy-conversion systems. Herein, we report a novel double core-shell-structured CNH@PDA@NiMOF (CNH-D-NiMOF) composite based on the support of carbon nanohorns (CNHs) and the direction of polydopamine (PDA) on the synthesis of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). It is found that this unique structure improves the electrocatalytic performance and stability of the composites. Furthermore, a controlled partial pyrolysis strategy was proposed to construct the Ni-based nanoparticle-embedded N-doped CNHs. The partial pyrolysis method preserves the framework structure of MOFs for effective substrate diffusion while producing highly active nanoparticles. This leads to the result that the Ni-based nanoparticle-embedded N-doped CNHs possess higher stability and significantly improved electrocatalytic properties. Among these derivatives, the sample prepared at a pyrolysis temperature of 400 °C (named as CNH-D-NiMOF-400) outperforms most of the reported unprecious-metal catalysts. At current densities of 20 and 100 mA·cm^-2, the overpotentials of CNH-D-NiMOF-400 are 270 and 340 mV for the OER on a carbon fiber paper (CFP), respectively. The outstanding electrocatalytic properties above suggest that this composite is an excellent candidate for the substitution of noble metal-based catalysts for OER.

IKBKE enhances TMZ-chemoresistance through upregulation of MGMT expression in glioblastoma

PURPOSE

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and aggressive malignant type of brain tumor. Despite advances in diagnosis and therapy, the prognosis of patients with GBM has remained dismal. Multidrug resistance and high recurrence are two of the major challenges in successfully treating brain tumors. IKBKE (inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa-B kinase subunit epsilon) is a major oncogenic protein in tumors and can inhibit glioblastoma cell proliferation, migration, and tumorigenesis. Our study aimed to investigate the mechanism of IKBKE enhancing the resistance of glioma cells to temozolomide.

METHODS

For the in vitro experiments, LN18 and U118 glioblastoma cells were treated with a combination of sh/oe-IKBKE lentivirus and TMZ. Cell proliferation was determined by the EdU assay and colony formation assays. Apoptosis was analyzed by the TUNEL assay. In vivo, LN18 NC and LN18 sh-IKBKE cells were implanted into the cerebrums of nude mice to detect the effect of combination therapy. The protein and mRNA levels were assayed by western blot, immunohistochemistry, and qRT-PCR.

RESULTS

In this study, we demonstrated that IKBKE enhances the resistance of glioblastoma cells to temozolomide (TMZ) by activating the AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway to upregulate the expression of the DNA repair enzyme o6-methylguanine-dna methyltransferase (MGMT). In glioblastoma cells, IKBKE knockdown enhances apoptosis and suppresses cell proliferation, clone formation, and tumor development in vivo induced by TMZ. However, overexpression of IKBKE reduces the effects of TMZ.

CONCLUSION

Our studies suggest that inhibition of IKBKE can enhance the therapeutic effect of TMZ on GBM in vitro and in vivo, providing new research directions and therapeutic targets for the treatment of GBM.

The Kinetics and Mechanisms for Photodegradation of Nitrated Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons on Lettuce Leaf Surfaces: An In Vivo Study

Insights into the environmental fates of nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (NPAHs) in edible vegetables are of great significance for better evaluating human exposure to NPAHs through the dietary pathway. In this work, a fluorescence quenching method using graphene quantum dots as a fluorescent probe was first applied for the in vivo determination of 9-nitroanthracene (9-NAnt) and 1-nitropyrene (1-NPyr) adsorbed on the leaf surfaces of living lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) seedlings. Moreover, the photolysis kinetics and mechanisms of the two adsorbed NPAHs were discussed. The photodegradation kinetics followed the pseudo-first-order equation, and the photodegradation half-life of 1-NPyr (7.4 ± 0.2 h) was greater than that of 9-NAnt (2.3 ± 0.1 h). Anthraquinone and pyrenediones were identified to be the main photolytic products of 9-NAnt and 1-NPyr, respectively. Intramolecular rearrangement was the most reasonable mechanism for the NPAH photolysis. The photolysis-driven degradation exhibited a key role in scavenging NPAHs from the vegetable leaf, indicating the reduction of NPAH transportation in the food chain.

[Relationship between the choroid plexus cyst and the aneuploidy]

Objective: Using the method of the ultrasound and the noninvasive DNA to find the relationship between the choroid plexus cyst and the aneuploidy, and to provide the meaningful data for prenatal consultant. Methods: A total of 112 cases, that the gestational age were between 13 and 20 weeks, which were diagnosed with choroid plexus cyst in the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics of the Second Hospital of Jilin University from January. 2016 to July. 2017 were tested by ultrasonography. They all accepted the noninvasive DNA. At the same time, a total of 100 normal fetuses were randomly involved in the control group by the combination of gestational age and the age of the pregnant woman, all of them had taken the non-invasive DNA examination and followed up until the birth. Those fetuses who combined with other malformations were induced labor in the two groups. If the results of noninvasive DNA indicated the high-risk, invasive examination for karyotype analysis were recommended. If the results were aneuploidy, they chose induced labor. The rest cases followed up until the birth. Results: Five cases of the 112 fetuses in the case group were found with obvious malformation (3 of them were found in the early trimester, 2 of them were found in the middle trimester). The numbers of high risk results of noninvasive DNA were 7, and 5 of them underwent the invasive karyotype analysis. When the aneuploidy had diagnosed definitely, induced labor had been taken. One case was found to be the aneuploidy in the control group, and took the induced labor. One case was diagnosed as right side aortic arch by ultrasound in the control group, with a good prognosis. The other cases were followed up until the birth with a good prognosis. Conclusions: (1)In the early trimester, the fetus with choroid plexus cyst has an increasing risk of aneuploidy. (2)When the maximum diameter of choroid plexus cyst is less than 1 cm and the cyst was single, most of them could disappear in the middle trimester, it has no effect on the fetus. (3)Noninvasive DNA test has a high accuracy, which can improve the positive rate of invasive examination.

[Correlation between fetal intracardiac echogenic foci and chromosome and heart function]

Objective: To study the relationship between the intracardiac echogenic foci and the abnormal chromosome and the changes of Cardiac function. Methods: A total of 2645 cases with the gestational age between 14 to 22 weeks were tested in the department of gynecology and obstetrics of the Second Hospital of Jilin University from Jan.2016 to Dec.2017.Seventy-nine of them existed the intracardiac echogenic foci, and the patient's imaging data in details were recorded.All of them have taken the non-invasive DNA examination.Fetal echocardiography was performed at 22-24 weeks.Karyotype analysis was performed using amniocentesis and umbilical cord blood puncture.Inducing labor was performed for fetuses that has been identified as a haploid or had a severely malformation during pregnancy.The other fetuses were followed up to the birth.Echocardiography was performed on neonates. Results: The detection rate of intracardiac echogenic focus was 3.0% in early pregnancy, 92% in the left ventricle, 4% in the right ventricle, and 4% in double ventricle.There were 5 cases of haploid fetus induced labor, 2 cases of induced labor due to fatal malformation.Fetal echocardiography revealed tricuspid regurgitation in 7 cases.One of them was induced labor in consideration of heart failure. Conclusions: 1.The risk of chromosomal abnormality in the fetus of isolated left intracardiac echogenic focus is lower.Non-invasive DNA examination has a high reliability that could be an important reference before an invasive antenatal diagnosis.2.A higher rate of fetal malformation will be found when the foci located in the right or double ventricle.3.The relationship between fetal intracardiac echogenic foci and fetal cardiac dysfunction needs to be further clarified.

[Relationship between sonographic markers and fetal chromosome abnormality during 16-18 weeks of pregnancy]

Objective: To analysis of fetal ultrasound soft index positive cases during 16-18 weeks of pregnancy, and to explore the relationship with chromosomal abnormalities in order to increase the positive rate of invasive prenatal diagnosis and reduce the rate of missed diagnosis. Methods: A total of 569 cases which were diagnosed with positive soft markers in the department of gynecology and obstetrics of the Second Hospital of Jilin University from Jan.2016 to Jan.2017 were studied by ultrasonography. Twenty-five cases were lost in follow-up and finally 544 cases were included as group A. Those fetuses who combined with other malformations were induced labor. Non-invasive DNA examination was recommended for continued pregnant women, and those pregnant women whose results were high risk underwent the amniotic cavity puncture. When the fetal aneuploidy was confirmed, they chose induced labor. We followed the rest of those patients until postnatal half year. Randomly selected 544 cases during 16-18 weeks of pregnancy without obvious abnormalities into group B, followed up to half a year after birth. Results: In group A, 7 of the 544 cases were combined with other severe malformation in the beginning, among the remaining 537 patients, 273 of them received non-invasive DNA examination. Ten cases were high risk results, all of them underwent the amniotic cavity puncture with the result of chromosome abnormality, and they chose induced labor. Six cases were found other malformation in the second trimester who chose induced labor, and the rest 521 cases followed until the fetuses was born after half year had a favorable prognosis. In group B, 1 cases of severe deformities and 1 cases of haploid fetuses were found in 544 fetuses. The incidence of haploid fetus in group A and group B were 1.8% and 0.2%, respectively, with statistically significant (P<0.05). The incidence of severe malformation in group A and group B were 2.3% and 0.2%, respectively, with statistically significant (P<0.05). Conclusions: During 16-18 weeks of pregnancy, sonographic markers may indicate an increased risk in fetal chromosomal abnormalities. The risk of serious malformation was increased in the fetuses with ultrasonic soft marker positive, but there was no specificity.

Insight into effects of citric acid on adsorption of phthalic acid esters (PAEs) in mangrove sediments

The adsorption of phthalate esters (PAEs) in mangrove sediment greatly influences their availability to aquatic organisms, however, the adsorption processes of PAEs in mangrove sediment, as well as the effects of root exudates, are poorly understood. In this study, dimethyl phthalate (DMP), diethyl phthalate (DEP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) was used as model PAEs to determine the effects and mechanism of citric acid on the adsorption kinetics and isotherms of PAEs in the mangrove sediments. The adsorption kinetics followed pseudo-second order model, describing the characteristics of heterogeneous chemisorption of PAEs in mangrove sediments. The adsorption isotherms of DMP and DEP followed Freundlich model, implying the characteristics of surface multilayer heterogeneous adsorption; while the Henry model better described the adsorption isotherms of DBP, suggesting that hydrophobic partition accounted for DBP adsorption in the mangrove sediments. Inter-chemical variability was observed in adsorption capacity (q_e) with the sequence of DBP > DEP > DMP. Surface polarity index ((C-O + COOH + C˭O)%) of particulate organic matter (POM) regulated the adsorption capacity of DMP and DEP in mangrove sediments, while different POM content among mangrove sediments explained the difference in the sorption strength for DBP. The presence of citric acid enhanced the q_e of the three PAEs by 6.4-12.6%. These findings are of great significance to reveal that the root exudates play a crucial role in the PAEs adsorption in mangrove sediments, and provide valuable information for availability of PAEs in mangrove ecosystem.

Novel method for in situ investigation into graphene quantum dots effects on the adsorption of nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons by crop leaf surfaces

Nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (NPAHs) are PAH derivatives with more toxic effects to ecosystem, and the partitioning of NPAHs in crop system constitutes the potential exposure to human health through the dietary pathway. In the present study, a novel method for in situ detection of 9-nitroanthracene (9-NAnt) and 3-nitrofluoranthene (3-NFla) adsorbed onto the leaf surfaces of living soybean and maize seedlings was established based on the fiber-optic fluorimetry combined with graphene quantum dots (GQDs) as a fluorescent probe. The detection limits for the in situ quantification of the two adsorbed NPAHs ranged from 0.8 to 1.6 ng/spot (spot represents determination unit, 0.28 cm2 per spot). Using the novel method, the effects of GQDs on the adsorption of individual 9-NAnt and 3-NFla by the living soybean and maize leaf surfaces were in situ investigated. The presence of GQDs altered the adsorption mechanism from the sole film diffusion to the combination of film diffusion and intra-particle diffusion, and shortened the time required to achieving adsorption equilibrium by 15.8-21.7%. Significant inter-species and inter-chemical variability existed in terms of the equilibrated adsorption capacity (qe) with the sequence of soybean > maize and 3-NFla > 9-NAnt. The occurrence of GQDs enlarged the qe values of 9-NAnt and 3-NFla by 22.8% versus 28.7% for soybean, and 16.2% versus 20.3% for maize, respectively, which was largely attributed to GQDs-induced expansion to the surface area for adsorbing NPHAs and the stronger electrostatic interaction between the -NO2 of NPAH molecules and the functional groups (e.g., -COOH, -OH) of GQDs outer surfaces. And, the varied enhancement degrees in the order of 3-NFla > 9-NAnt might be explained by the steric effects that resulted in the easier accessibility of -NO2 of 3-NFla to the outer surface of GQDs. Summarily, the GQDs increased the retention of NPAHs on crop leaf surfaces, potentially threatening the crop security.

Direct determination of surfactant effects on the uptake of gaseous parent and alkylated PAHs by crop leaf surfaces

The partitioning of atmospheric polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) into crop systems raises concerns about their potential harm to ecosystem and human health. To assess parent and alkylated PAHs accumulation accurately, the uptake of individual 7-isopropyl-1-methylphenanthrene (Retene), 3-methyl-phenanthrene (3-MP) and phenanthrene (Phe) by living maize, soybean and potato leaf surfaces, as well as the effects of cationic cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTMAB) and anionic sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate (SDBS), were examined in situ using fiber-optic fluorimetry. For each of three PAH chemicals, the uptake achieved equilibrium between the air and living crop leaf surfaces within the 120-h monitoring period. There is inter-chemical and inter-species variability in terms of both the time required reaching equilibrium, the equilibrated adsorption concentration (EAC) and the overall air-surfaces mass transfer coefficient (kAS). The EAC of the three PAHs for each of the three crops' leaf surfaces increased with the number of alkyl substitutions on the aromatic ring. For any given PAHs, the EAC values followed the sequence of potato > soybean > maize, which was dominantly controlled by their leaf surface polarity index ((O+N)/C). The presence of CTMAB and SDBS increased the EAC of PAHs in the three crops' leaf surfaces by 6.5-17.1%, due to the plasticizing effect induced by the surface-sorbed surfactants, and the enhancement degree was closely associated with leaf-wax content and lg KOW values of PAHs. In addition, the two surfactants promoted the kAS values of the three chemicals by 7.7-23.3%. These results demonstrated that surfactants promoted the uptake of PAHs onto the crop leaf surfaces, potentially threatening the agricultural product safety.

In-situ examination of graphene and graphene oxide impact on the depuration of phenanthrene and fluoranthene adsorbed onto spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) leaf surfaces

To further assess the human being's exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) through the dietary pathway, understanding the partitioning of these chemicals co-existed with nanomaterials in edible vegetable systems deserves specific consideration. In this study, the fiber-optic fluorimetry was applied to in situ examine the effects of graphene (GNS) and graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets on the quantification and depuration of three-ringed phenanthrene (Phe) and four-ringed fluoranthene (Fla) adsorbed individually onto the living spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) surfaces. When the GNS and GO dosages separately increased to the maximum values: a respective red-shift of 4-5 nm and blue-shift of 2-3 nm occurred for the optimal detection emission wavelengths (λ_em) of the two PAHs, indicating that individual GNS and GO resulted in different changes to the epicuticular wax (ECW) polarity; GNS-inducing fluorescence quenching for the PAHs was about two times greater than GO, owing to the stronger π-π interactions between PAH molecules and GNS relative to GO; the volatilization coefficients (k_C1) were reduced by 31.1% versus 26.7% for Phe, and 51.6% versus 34.4% for Fla, mainly via providing an additional adsorbent and promoting the accessibility of the leaf cuticle; respective photolysis coefficients (k_P2) of Phe and Fla decreased by 42.9% and 50.0% with GNS, primarily owing to the enhancement of the ECW light-adsorption capacity, but increased by 33.3% and 40.0% with GO due to its photocatalytic activities; overall, total depuration coefficients (k_T1, k_T2) of the two PAHs decreased by 11.1-55.6%. These findings demonstrate that GNS and GO significantly alter the depuration behavior of PAHs in vegetable systems, potentially posing a threat to the safety of edible vegetables.

[Evaluation of pelvic floor function of postpartum pelvic floor ultrasound in pregnant women with multiple pregnancies]

Objective: To probe the effect of multiple pregnancy on pelvic floor function of pregnant women, Pelvic floor ultrasonography was performed on the 42 day postpartum women.And the bladder neck mobility, bladder and urethral posterior angle and pelvic diaphragmatic hiatus area were measured. Methods: Collect 200 cases 42 day postpartum women who visited the second hospital of Jilin University from July 2015 to June 2017, of which 100 cases of primipara belong to group A, 100 cases of multiple pregnancy belong to group B, and 100 cases without maternal at the same age belong to the control group, ultrasound measurement of the bladder neck mobility, bladder and urethral posterior angle and pelvic diaphragmatic hiatus area were measured.t test were proformed respectively between the three groups, P<0.05 was considered statistically significant difference. Results: In the control group, the bladder neck mobility is (2.59±0.51) cm , the bladder neck mobility in A group is (2.99±0.69) cm, the bladder neck mobility in B group is (3.36±0.71) cm; the bladder and urethral posterior angle in the control group is (112.56±13.61)°, the bladder and urethral posterior angle in the control group after Valsalva action angle is(135.37±12.17)°, the bladder and urethral posterior angle in A group is(119.26±15.80)°, the bladder and urethral posterior angle in group A after Valsalva action is(141.79±12.08)°, the bladder and urethral posterior angle in B group is(123.62±16.20)°, the bladder and urethral posterior angle in group B after Valsalva action is (148.92±13.60)°; the pelvic diaphragmatic hiatus area in the control group is (13.35±2.86) cm(2,) the pelvic diaphragmatic hiatus area in the control group after Valsalva action is(15.28±3.15) cm(2,) the pelvic diaphragmatic hiatus area in A group is(17.52±3.19) cm(2,) the pelvic diaphragmatic hiatus area in A group ater Valsalva action is (18.06±5.13_the pelvic diaphragmatic hiatus area) cm(2,) the pelvic diaphragmatic hiatus area in B group is (18.26±4.18) cm(2,) the pelvic diaphragmatic hiatus area in B group after Valsalva action is (20.3±3.53) cm(2).In group A, group B and the control group, the measured value of the bladder neck mobility, bladder and urethral posterior angle and pelvic diaphragmatic hiatus area were examined by t test, and P<0.05, which means the difference was statistically significant. Conclusion: Pregnancy can affect the function of female pelvic floor, and the effect of parturient is more significant than that of the primipara.

[Application of ultrasound guidance for fascia iliaca compartment block in pediatric femoral surgery]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of ultrasound guidance for fascia iliaca compartment block in pediatric femoral surgery. Methods: This study was a prospective study, thirty children who were American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) statusⅠ with 5-10 years old scheduled for femoral surgery were selected in orthopedics department in Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from May to December in 2014. After induction of general anesthesia, all the children were inserted the laryngeal mask. Then they were received fascia iliaca compartment block using ultrasound guidance under sevoflurane inhalation anesthesia. The indicators including heart rate(HR), mean arterial pressure(MAP), oxygen saturation(SpO(2)) and exhaled sevoflurane concentration were recorded before skin incision(T(1)), at 1, 5, 10 min after incision(T(2)-T(4))and at the end of the surgery(T(5)). Postoperative pain were assessed using the pain behavior assessment scale at awake time, 2 h and 4 h after surgery. The efficacy of postoperative analgesia and the satisfaction of parents at 2 h and 4 h after surgery were recorded. Results: The differences between HR、MAP and SpO(2) in children at T(1)-T(5) were no statistical significance (all P>0.05). Exhaled sevoflurane concentration at T(1)-T(5) were(2.50±0.51)%, (2.51±0.42)%, (2.50±0.41)%, (2.54±0.31)% and(0.61±0.20)%, respectively, the differences were statistically significant(F=13.503, P<0.05), among them that at T(5) was significantly lower than at T(1)-T(4)(all P<0.05). The pain score at awake time, 2 h and 4 h after surgery were (1.6±0.7), (3.3±1.4) and (3.9±1.3) scores, respectively. The parents satisfaction were 87% and 73% at 2 h and 4 h afer surgery respectively. Conclusion: The way of ultrasound guidance for fascia iliaca compartment block combined with general anesthesia can be safely and effectively used in pediatric femoral surgery. Using the technique of ultrasonic imaging, the fascia iliaca compartment can be directly observed and then the local anesthetics is injected, therefore the efficacy of block is improved.

[The Study of relationship between fetal radius loss and chromosomal abnormality]

Objective: To explore the relationship between fetal radius loss and chromosomal abnormalities. Methods: Collect data of 3 100 cases pregnant women who had been checked in the second hospital of Jilin University from 2012 to 2015.There were 8 cases of absent radius, except 1 case of fetal lost follow-up, the remaining 7 cases had complete ultrasound, chromosome examination and the result of induction.The relationship between fetal radius loss and chromosomal abnormalities were analysed. Results: There were 1 case of 21 trisomy syndrome, 1 case of trisomy 13 syndrome, 2 cases of trisomy 18, 2 cases of chromosome translocation, 1 case of normal chromosome result and 1 case was lost to follow-up of the 8 absent radius fetuses. Conclusion: Through a comparison between the chromosome and ultrasonic characteristics of fetuses who have absent radius, we had indicated the relationship of fetal radius deletion and chromosomal anomaly, improved the positive rate of chromosome invasion examination, and provided the reference for eugenics.

[Prenatal ultrasound diagnosis, prognosis and chromosome analysis of fetal bowel dilatation]

Objective: To investigate the relationship among the prenatal ultrasound, prognosis and chromosome results of fetal bowel dilatation. And in order to further improve the positive rate of prenatal chromosome examination operation, and reduce the risk of missed diagnosis. Methods: Ninety fetuses who were diagnosed as fetal bowel dilatation by prenatal ultrasound from June 2013 to December 2015 in the Second hospital of Jilin University were enrolled. Chromosomes were examined by amniotic cavity puncture or umbilical cord blood puncture. The change of fetus's bowel was monitored periodically by prenatal ultrasound. The normal bowel movement of newborns was a good prognosis. The abdominal X ray or barium contrast radiography was performed in the newborns who did not have normal bowel movement after delivery. Patients underwent surgery or conservative treatment after diagnosis. Fetal karyotype analysis of aborted fetus was carried out by amniotic cavity puncture and umbilical cord blood before induction of labor. Autopsy was performed after induced labor. Patients who were not continued examination in our hospital were followed up by telephone. Results: Among the 90 fetuses, there are 11 cases of duodenum dilatation, 38 cases of jejunum and ileum dilatation, 41 cases of colorectal dilatation. Ten cases of duodenum dilatation were confirmed by autopsy after induced labor, and one case was lost in follow-up. Chromosome examination revealed 3 cases of 21- three body syndrome, 1 case of 18- three body syndrome, 1 case of chromosomal translocation. In 38 cases of jejunum and ileum dilatation, bowel dilatation of 26 cases had decrease or no obvious increase with good prognosis. Six cases of induced labor, 3 cases of receive surgery after birth, 2 cases of postoperative survival, and 3 cases of loss of follow-up. Chromosome examination revealed 1 case of 21- three body syndrome and 1 case of chromosomal translocation. In 41 cases of colorectal dilatation, 29 cases had good prognosis. Five cases were aborted, 1 case of fetal death, 2 cases died within 1 month after birth, 2 cases received surgery after birth and survived after operation, and 2 cases of loss of follow-up. Conclusions: Clinical prognosis and the associated risk of chromosome abnormalities in patients with fetal bowel dilatation are different in terms of its expansion location and extent of the different, which need to a specific analysis of specific situations.

[The 2015 China Adult Tobacco Survey: exposure to second-hand smoke among adults aged 15 and above and their support to policy on banning smoking in public places]

OBJECTIVE

To understand the situation on exposure to second-hand smoke among Chinese adults aged 15 and above and their support to policy on banning smoking in public places in 2015.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted based on the protocol on Global Adult Tobacco Survey. Stratified multi-stage cluster sampling was used to select 16 800 households in China. Data were collected through household survey, using the electronic devices. One eligible respondent was selected by random sampling in each household. Standardized questionnaire was used from Global Tobacco Surveillance System. Data were weighted and analyzed by SAS 9.3 and SUDAAN 10.0.1 complex survey data analysis program.

RESULTS

93.1% (60 128×10(3)/64 575×10(3)), 76.3% (455 473×10(3)/596 782×10(3)), 57.1% (621 793×10(3)/1 089 582×10(3)), 54.3% (218 792×10(3)/402 732×10(3)), 38.1% (61 208×10(3)/160 574×10(3)), 26.9% (119 783×10(3)/444 679×10(3)), 23.8%(17 598×10(3)/73 993×10(3)), 17.2% (41 099×10(3)/239 022×10(3)) and 16.4% (102 153×10(3)/623 015×10(3)) of the respondents reported that smoking did exsit in the following places as: inside of bars or night clubs, in the restaurants, households homes, working places, government buildings, health care facilities, universities, primary and high schools (both indoor and outdoor areas), and on public transportation, respectively. Compared with those data in 2010, the proportions of exposure to indoor areas of restaurants, government buildings, health care facilities, primary and high schools (both indoor and outdoor areas), public transportation, and homes all significantly decreased after standardization of data. RESULTS also showed that most respondents were supportive to the policy on banning smoking in public and working places. However, the proportions of exposure to indoor areas of restaurants were still high but almost 70% of the respondents thought smoking should not be allowed in indoor areas of restaurants.

CONCLUSION

From 2010 to 2015, proportions of exposure to indoor areas of public places, working places, public transportation and homes were obviously declining in China. The Chinese public seemed supportive to the policy on banning smoking in public places.

Structural characterization of individual graphene sheets formed by arc discharge and their growth mechanisms

Two types of arc graphene sheets with different morphology and crystal structures are found, and further probed by Raman spectroscopy. Moreover, a new growth mechanism responsible for the difference of arc graphene is proposed.

Degesting the remodeled cardiovascular wall: role of cysteinyl cathepsins in cardiovascular disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is characterized by extensive remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) architecture of the cardiovascular system. Among the many extracellular proteolytic enzymes present in cardiovascular cells and inflammatory cells and involved in ECM remodeling, members of the matrix metalloproteinase family and serine protease family have received the most attention. However, recent findings from laboratory and clinical studies have indicated that lysosomal cysteinyl cathepsins also participate in pathogenesis of CVD. This review summarizes recent knowledge on discoveries regarding the relationship between cysteinly cathepsins and CVD.

Effect of angiotensin II on STAT3 mediated atrial structural remodeling

OBJECTIVE

Atrial fibrillation (AF) has been identified to contribute significantly to the morbidity and mortality of cardiovascular disease patients. The atrial structural remodeling is a hallmark of AF and the molecular mechanisms underlying this remain unclear. Hence the objective of the present study is to determine the role of angiotensin II (Ang-II)/Ang-II type 1 (AT1) receptor--STAT3 signaling pathway on--atrial structural remodeling.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The method of this study involves incubation of atrial myocytes, with Ang-II, to increase the level of apoptosis expressions by Tunel assay and the expression of apoptosis related factors like caspase 3 and 8 release of cytochrome C from mitochondria to cytosol by western blot test after OGD pre-treatment.

RESULTS

Atrial myocytes were shown to simulate the ischemia, hypoxia and atrial fibrillation. When incubated with Ang-II, (inhibited by losartan) the improvement was observed in the expression of caspase-3 and caspase-8. Ang-II also significantly promoted the transfer of cytochrome C levels from the mitochondria to the cytoplasm and this transfer was observed to be inhibited by losartan and WP1066. Ang-II incubation showed improved transcriptions of collagens and MMP expressions in atrial fibroblasts. In cultured atrial myocytes and fibroblasts, Ang-II induced tyrosine and serine phosphorylation of STAT3 showing interaction with MMP1 and MMP2 and DNA promoter sequences in atrial fibroblasts. The complete sequence was observed to have an affinity to be inhibited by losartan and WP1066.

CONCLUSIONS

Ang-II/AT1 receptor/STAT3 is an important signaling pathway in the atrial structural remodeling, Ang-II enhances the apoptosis of atrial parenchyma and deposition of atrial ECM, which might contributes to atrial fibrillation.

Icariin stimulates the proliferation of rat Sertoli cells in an ERK1/2-dependent manner in vitro

Icariin (ICA), a major constituent of flavonoids from the Chinese medical herb Epimedium brevicornum Maxim, is found to be protective for male reproductive ability, with the underlying mechanism largely unknown. Our study here investigated the effects of ICA on Sertoli cells, which act as nurse cells for the germ cells developing. Icariin was found to stimulate Sertoli cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. Further study revealed that Icariin induced an obvious phosphorylation of ERK in Sertoli cells. Inhibition of activation of ERK by the ERK inhibitor U0126 nearly blocked the Icariin-induced proliferation of Sertoli cells. Taken together, our results suggest that Icariin promotes the proliferation of Sertoli cells in vitro by activating the ERK1/2 signal pathway, which might at least partially, explain the protective role of Icariin on male reproductive ability.

A cross-sectional study on levels of second-hand smoke in restaurants and bars in five cities in China

OBJECTIVES

To assess indoor second-hand smoke (SHS) exposure in restaurants and bars via PM(2.5) (fine particles 2.5 μm in diameter and smaller) level measurements in five cities in China.

METHODS

The study was conducted from July to September in 2007 in Beijing, Xi'an, Wuhan, Kunming and Guiyang. Portable aerosol monitors were used to measure PM(2.5) concentrations in 404 restaurants and bars. The occupant density and the active smoker density were calculated for each venue sampled.

RESULTS

Among the 404 surveyed venues, 23 had complete smoking bans, 9 had partial smoking bans and 313 (77.5%) were observed to have allowed smoking during sampling. The geometric mean of indoor PM(2.5) levels in venues with smoking observed was 208 μg/m(3) and 99 μg/m(3) in venues without observed smoking. When outdoor PM(2.5) levels were adjusted, indoor PM(2.5) levels in venues with smoking observed were consistently significantly higher than in venues without smoking observed (F=80.49, p<0.001). Indoor PM(2.5) levels were positively correlated with outdoor PM(2.5) levels (partial rho=0.37 p<0.001) and active smoker density (partial rho=0.34, p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Consistent with findings in other countries, PM(2.5) levels in smoking places are significantly higher than those in smoke-free places and are strongly related to the number and density of active smokers. These findings document the high levels of SHS in hospitality venues in China and point to the urgent need for comprehensive smoke-free laws in China to protect the public from SHS hazards, as called for in Article 8 of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which was ratified by China in 2005.

A cross-sectional study on levels of secondhand smoke in restaurants and bars in five cities in China

OBJECTIVES

To assess indoor secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure in restaurants and bars via PM(2.5) level measurements in five cities in China.

METHODS

The study was conducted from July to September in 2007 in Beijing, Xi'an, Wuhan, Kunming and Guiyang. PM(2.5) concentrations were measured in 404 restaurants and bars using portable aerosol monitors. The occupant density and the active smoker density were calculated for each venue sampled.

RESULTS

Among the 404 surveyed venues, 23 had complete smoking bans, nine had partial smoking bans and 313 (77.5%) had smoking observed during sampling. The geometric mean of indoor PM(2.5) levels in venues with smoking observed was 208 μg/m(3) and 99 μg/m(3) in venues without smoking observed. When outdoor PM(2.5) levels were adjusted, indoor PM(2.5) levels in venues with smoking observed were consistently significantly higher than those in venues without smoking observed (F=80.49, p<0.001). Indoor PM(2.5) levels were positively correlated with outdoor PM(2.5) levels (partial ρ=0.37 p<0.001) and active smoker density (partial ρ=0.34, p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Consistent with findings in other countries, PM(2.5) levels in smoking places are significantly higher than those in smoke-free places and are strongly related to the number and density of active smokers. These findings document the high levels of SHS in hospitality venues in China and point to the urgent need for comprehensive smoke-free laws in China to protect the public from SHS hazards, as called for in Article 8 of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which was ratified by China in 2005.

Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blotting analysis for detection of p63 isoforms in uterine cervical cancers

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of TAp63 and DeltaNp63 isoforms in uterine cervical cancers. The messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expressions of TA and DeltaN forms as well as alpha, beta, and gamma isoforms of p63 were studied in seven SiHa, ME-180, SNU17, SNU902, SNU1160, SNU703, and SNU1299 human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive uterine cervical squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cell lines, one HT3 HPV-negative SCC cell line, and one HeLa adenocarcinoma cell line using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blotting. Fresh nonneoplastic and neoplastic tissues of uterine cervical and endometrial cancers were also studied. RT-PCR for TA and DeltaN form and three isoforms of p63 showed positive bands for both TA and DeltaN forms and for all three isoforms in cervical cancer cell lines but weak band for alpha isoform in HPV-negative HT3 SCC cell line and no band for beta isoform in HeLa adenocarcinoma cell line. RT-PCR for TA and DeltaN and three isoforms of p63 mRNA in tissue samples showed positive bands in almost all samples, except for gamma isoform, the expression was weak or absent in nonneoplastic tissues compared with neoplastic tissues. In western blotting, cancer cell lines and both nonneoplastic and neoplastic tissue samples showed expression of TA and DeltaN, and gamma isoform but beta isoform expression with or without alpha isoform was only found in cancer cell lines and neoplastic tissues. beta isoform, possibly of DeltaNp63, may be considered as an important isoform in uterine cervical squamous cell carcinogenesis.

[A computer-aided analysis system for counting the synaptic numerical density based on disector technique]

The change in the numbers of synapse is of importance in various kinds of physiological and pathological processes. The numerical density is the structural parameter measuring up the numbers of the particles in the space. A new stereological technique, the disector technique, has been described to count the number of particles in a given volume of tissue. It is a technique for counting the number of arbitrary particles in 3-dimensional space using adjacent parallel sections at known distance apart. In this article also discussed is the software for computer assisted count of the synaptic numerical density based on the physical director technique with Visual Basic 4.0.

A new complex of palladium-thiourea and carbon tetrabromide catalyzed carbonylative annulation of o-hydroxylarylacetylenes: efficient new synthetic technology for the synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted benzo[b]furans

[reaction: see text] A highly effective cocatalysis system (PdI2-thiourea and CBr4) was developed for carbonylative cyclization of both electron-rich and electron-deficient o-hydroxylarylacetylenes to the corresponding methyl benzo[b]furan-3-carboxylates.

[The effect of serum TGFb1 of patients with chronic hepatitis B in liver fibrosis formation]

OBJECTIVES

To observe the relation between serum transforming growth factor beta 1(TGF beta 1) and level of PCIII, LN, HA, proliferation of hepatic fibrotic tissue.

METHODS

Serum TGF beta 1 was detected by ELISA in 58 patients with chronic hepatitis B(CHB) and 18 patients with liver cirrhosis(LC). 20 healthy persons served as normal control(NC). Liver puncture was performed in 29 patients with CHB. Diagnosis of pathological histology and quantitative analysis of collagenous and reticular fibers were made.

RESULTS

(1)Serum TGF beta 1 levels in CHB and LC were notably higher than in NC (P < 0.01) and increased successively in mild, moderate and severe degrees of CHB and LC(P < 0.01/0.05). (2)Serum TGF beta 1 was correlated with serum levels of PCIII, LN, HA(P < 0.01/0.05)positively. The quantity of hepatic collagenous and reticular fibers went up in mild, moderate and severe degrees of CHB(P < 0.01/0.05). Meanwhile serum TGF beta 1 rose at the same degree.

CONCLUSION

Serum TGF beta 1 levels increase in CHB and LC. With hepatic pathological change worsening, serum TGF beta 1 and the quantity of hepatic collagenous and reticular fibers increased to the same degree. This suggests that TGF beta 1 is a crucial factor in accelerating liver fibrosis and plays a decisive role in liver fibrosis.

Effects of some 7-arylidene and 7-heteroarylidene morphinan-6-ones on the antinociceptive activity of [D-Pen2, D-Pen5]enkephalin and [D-Ala2, Glu4]deltorphin II and on multiple opioid receptors

The in vivo and functional effects of several 7-arylidene and 7-heteroarylidene morphinan-6-ones were determined at the mu-, delta-, and kappa-opioid receptors using the guinea pig brain membranes, guinea pig ileum (GPI), and mouse vas deferens (MVD). In vivo effects included the antagonism by these compounds given subcutaneously on the antinociceptive actions of intracerebroventricularly injected [D-Pen2, D-Pen5]enkephalin (DPDPE) and [D-Ala2, Glu4]deltorphin II (deltorphin II), the highly selective putative delta 1- and delta 2-opioid receptor agonists. Finally, the partition coefficients of these compounds were estimated (CLOGP) and determined experimentally at pH 7.4 in the 1-octanol/water system. Compared with E-7-benzylidenenaltrexone (BNTX), most compounds except for E-7-(4-chlorobenzylidene)naltrexone, were more potent at delta-opioid receptors than at the mu-opioid receptor, whereas, in comparison to the kappa-opioid receptor, the activities of the E-7-arylidene or E-7-heteroarylidene naltrexone derivatives at the delta-receptor were in the following order, where the 7-substituents were: 4-fluorobenzylidene- > benzylidene > 3-pyridylmethylene- > 4-pyridylmethylene- > 1-methyl-2-imidazolylmethylene > 4-chlorobenzylidene. In the MVD preparation, the potencies at the delta-opioid receptor, in comparison to BNTX, were in the following order, where the 7-substituents were: benzylidene = 1-methyl-2-imidazolylmethylene- > 4-fluorobenzylidene- = 3-pyridylmethylene- = 4-pyridylmethylene-. All compounds antagonized delta 1, and delta 2-opioid receptor agonist-induced analgesia. The antagonist potencies at the delta 1-opioid receptor were in the following order, where the 7-substituents were: benzylidene- > 4-chlorobenzylidene- > 4-fluorobenzylidene- > 3-pyridylmethylene- > 1-methyl-2-imidazolymethylene- approximately 4-pyridylmethylene-, whereas at the delta 2-opioid receptor, the order was benzylidene- > 4-chlorobenzylidene- > 4-fluorobenzylidene- > 3-pyridylmethylene- > 1-methyl-2-imidazolymethylene- > 4-pyridylmethylene. In general, all compounds exhibited greater potency at the delta 2- than delta 1-opioid receptor. The computed partition coefficients were, as expected, greater than the apparent log P values, which were determined experimentally. Generally, the lipophilicity values in decreasing order were: 4-chlorobenzylidene- > 4-fluorobenzylidene- > benzylidene > 3-pyridylmethylene- = 4-pyridylmethylene- > 1-methyl-2-imidazolylmethylene-. In general, the benzylidene and 4-pyridylmethylene derivatives, which have medium lipophilicities, were equally effective at the delta 1- and delta 2-receptors; the 3-pyridylmethylene and 1-methyl-2-imidazolylmethylene derivatives had lower lipophilicities and were more selective for the delta 2- than delta 1-receptor; the 4-chlorobenzylidene and 4-fluorobenzylidene derivatives were more lipophilic and had intermediate activity. The plot of pED50 values for the in vivo tests for the delta 1- and delta 2-receptors showed that the two receptors are not independent with respect to this series of compounds.

A dietary survey of the Chinese population in urban and rural areas of Tianjin

OBJECTIVES

A survey was carried out to assess the food pattern and of nutrient intakes of 15-64 year old Chinese in Tianjin.

DESIGN

The survey was randomised and the diet assessed by weighing household food items and by individual food records over 3 consecutive days.

SETTING

The survey was carried out in Tianjin; the third largest city in China (population about 8 million).

SUBJECTS

A random stratified multi-level cluster sampling technique was used. Of the 5233 eligible subjects, 207 dropped out, and the response rate was 96%.

RESULTS

Distinct differences in dietary patterns and nutrient intakes were found between subjects living in urban and rural areas. The diet of urban people was richer in fat and high quality protein compared with that of rural people. Energy intake from fat was about 31% in the urban diet and about 21% in the rural diet. Low intakes of vitamin A, riboflavin, calcium and zinc were found in both areas, with the situation being worse in the rural areas. Sodium intake was found to be high in both areas. Cholesterol intake was much higher among urban people.

CONCLUSION

The present survey revealed that the intake of some nutrients was lower than recommended and that total sodium intake was very high in Tianjin. An integrated nutrition intervention program would appear necessary for such a population.

Dietary sodium and potassium, socioeconomic status and blood pressure in a Chinese population

The average total intake of sodium was 6.11 g in a Chinese urban diet and 6.49 g in the rural sample in China. Discretionary use of salt provided 53% of the total sodium intake in the urban and 63% in the rural diet. Sodium intakes derived from processed foods, soy sauce and monosodium glutamate were 17%, 16% and 6% respectively in the urban diet, and 4%, 16%, 2% respectively in the rural diet. The mean intake of potassium was 1.95 g in the urban and 1.83 g in the rural diet. Cereals and vegetables were the major sources of dietary potassium. The intakes of total sodium, salt and soy sauce decreased as educational level increased. Similar results were found in white-collar workers and blue-collar workers or farmers. Nevertheless, an inverse association between blood pressure and education was found. The results suggest that reduction in sodium intake, especially cooking salt, and increased potassium intake are needed for nutritional control of hypertension in population-based interventions aimed at all social classes.

Relationship between serum lipids and dietary and non-dietary factors in a Chinese population

OBJECTIVES

To describe the distribution of serum lipids and examine the relationship between serum lipids and dietary and non-dietary factors.

DESIGN

A randomised survey.

SETTING

The survey was carried out in Tianjin, China.

SUBJECTS

Altogether 680 subjects were screened. Forty-nine of those were excluded but 314 men and 317 women remained.

INTERVENTION

The serum lipids were measured by enzymatic methods. The diet was assessed by food weighing plus consecutive individual 3-day food records.

RESULTS

The mean cholesterol concentrations were 4.08 and 3.94 mmol/l in men and women respectively. The mean high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels were 1.24 and 1.35 mmol/l, and the mean triglyceride levels were 1.48 and 1.20 mmol/l. The energy intake derived from fat was approximately 29% (6.9% from saturated fat) and the polyunsaturates:saturates ratio of the diet was 1.3 in both sexes. Multiple regression analyses showed that no association was discovered between serum lipids and dietary variables. Age and body mass index (BMI) were strong and independent predictors of serum lipids in both sexes. BMI was positively related to serum total cholesterol, triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and inversely related to HDL-C. Education was a predictor only in men. Men with a higher education had more coronary heart disease risk factors than men with lower education attainment.

CONCLUSION

The Chinese have favourable serum lipid profiles and dietary fat pattern. No relationship was found between lipids and dietary variables, which warrants further studies because these relationships have not been investigated previously in any Chinese population.

Assessment of sodium and potassium in processed foods in an urban area in China

OBJECTIVE

To identify commonly consumed processed foods with high sodium (Na) content and sodium to potassium (Na:K) ratio for the purpose of using this information in a community-based nutrition education programme.

DESIGN

Calculations of Na and K intake were based on the data of a dietary survey carried out in Tianjin in 1992. All processed foods were randomly sampled based on manufacturers and market survey.

SETTING

The survey was conducted in the urban area in Tianjin, China.

PARTICIPANTS

2317 subjects aged 15-64 years old were included in the dietary survey. The response rate was 95%.

MAIN RESULTS

The mean sodium intake was 6517 mg in men and 5708 mg in women. 38% of the total Na intake came from processed foods and condiments in both of the urban men and women in Tianjin. 122 processed foods with sales volumes were identified. Most of the processed foods had high Na content and high Na:K ratio, especially Na-rich condiments, salted vegetables, fried dough cake and sausages. The Na content of most processed foods in Tianjin was higher than the mean value reported in the Chinese Food Composition Table.

CONCLUSION

Processed foods contribute an important part of dietary Na in the urban diet in Tianjin. It is necessary to initiate nutrition intervention activities aiming at regulations on the Na content of processed foods and to advise the people to reduce consumption of salty foods.

Dietary survey in a Chinese population

OBJECTIVES

To assess food pattern and nutrition profile aiming at planning population-based nutrition intervention for chronic diseases control.

DESIGN

A randomized survey.

SETTING

The survey was carried out in Tianjin, one of the three largest cities in China.

SUBJECTS

3683 subjects aged 15-64 years old were selected by a random stratified multilevel cluster sampling.

INTERVENTION

The diet was assessed by food weighing plus consecutive individual 3 day food records.

RESULTS

Distinct differences in dietary pattern and nutrient intakes were found between subjects living in urban and rural areas. The diet of urban people was richer in fat and high quality protein compared with the diet of rural people. Low intakes of vitamin A, calcium, riboflavin, and zinc were found in both areas, the situation being worse in the rural areas. The sodium intake and sodium:potassium ratio was very high in both areas. Cholesterol intake was much higher among the urban people.

CONCLUSION

The study suggests that integrated nutrition intervention is needed to prevent insufficient intake of some nutrients and control dietary risk factors related to chronic diseases.

Associations between blood pressure and dietary intake and urinary excretion of electrolytes in a Chinese population

OBJECTIVE

To examine the associations between blood pressure and sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium in a cross-sectional study by 24-h urine collections and food weighing with 3-day food records in 328 males and 335 females in Tianjin, People's Republic of China.

RESULTS

A very high sodium intake and sodium:potassium ratio was confirmed in the study population. After adjusting for confounding variables, both dietary and urinary sodium and sodium:potassium ratio were significantly and positively correlated with blood pressure. Although a negative correlation was found between potassium and blood pressure, the association was significant only between urinary potassium and systolic blood pressure in females and in both sexes combined. No significant associations were found between blood pressure and either intake of or urinary excretion of calcium and magnesium. The dietary intake correlated highly with urinary excretion of electrolytes. In both sexes a strong positive association was found between blood pressure and age, and between blood pressure and body mass index. Higher blood pressure was shown in subjects with higher sodium and alcohol intake, higher body mass index and lower potassium intake.

CONCLUSION

The present results indicate that factors contributing to high blood pressure in Tianjin, People's Republic of China, are related to age, body mass index, high sodium intake and sodium:potassium ratio.

Effects of BRB-I-28, a novel antiarrhythmic agent, and its derivatives on cardiac Na+,K(+)-ATPase, Mg(2+)-ATPase activities and contractile force

The effects of BRB-I-28, SAZ-VII-22 and SAZ-VII-23, a novel class of antiarrhythmic agents and other 3,7-diheterobicyclo[3.3.1]nonane (DHBCN) derivatives on guinea pig myocardial Na+,K(+)-ATPase and Mg(2+)-activated ATPase activities were investigated in comparison with those of tedisamil, lidocaine and ouabain. BRB-I-28, SAZ-VII-22, SAZ-VII-23, tedisamil and their derivatives produced concentration-dependent inhibition on both Na+,K(+)-ATPase and Mg(2+)-activated ATPase. Ouabain had no effect on the Mg(2+)-activated ATPase activity and GLG-IV-44 had no significant inhibition on Na+,K(+)-ATPase. Molar refractivity, retention time in reverse-phase HPLC, and partition coefficients were determined and the influence of these three parameters on the inhibitory effects of DHBCN on ATPase was examined. It seems that inhibitory effects of DHBCN derivatives on Na+,K(+)-ATPase and Mg(2+)-activated ATPase increase with an increase in lipophilicity, while hydrophilic groups of the drugs may not be important for interaction between drugs and ATPases. The effects of BRB-I-28 on contractile force development in rabbit atrial and papillary muscles were studied. At paced rates of 0.5 and 1.0 Hz in atrial muscle, BRB-I-28 produced an apparent positive inotropic effect in isolated rabbit atrial muscle, which is consistent with its inhibitory effects on Na+,K(+)-ATPase and Mg(2+)-ATPase activities. Inhibitory effects on myocardial Na+,K(+)-ATPase and Mg(2+)-activated ATPase activities may be the basis of some electrophysiological effects of antiarrhythmic properties of BRB-I-28, SAZ-VII-22, SAZ-VII-23, and tedisamil.