Clinical effects of iRoot BP plus and mineral trioxide aggregate in treatment of apical periodontitis with open apical permanent teeth / 口腔医学

Objective@#To analyze and evaluate the clinical application effect of bioceramic material mineral trioxide aggregate and iRoot BP plus on the formation of apical barrier in adult teeth with incomplete apical foramen.@*Methods@#A total of 200 permanent teeth with apical periodontitis whose apical foramen were not closed were randomly divided into two groups, and the apical barrier was prepared with MTA and iRoot BP plus, respectively. The operation time of MTA and iRoot BP plus and effects of different types of apical foramen destruction, lesion range of apical area, the filling of apical area and patients' age on the treatment success rate was analyzed and compared. @*Results@#The operation time of preparing apical barrier in iRoot BP plus group was shorter than that in MTA group, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). However, different types of apical foramen destruction, lesion scope of apical area, filling of apical area and patients' age had no effect on the treatment success rate of the two groups (P>0.05). @*Conclusion@#The clinical effects of MTA and iRoot BP plus in the treatment of apical periodontitis of permanent teeth with unclosed apical foramen are similar, but the operation performance of iRoot BP plus is better.

Electrochemical biosensor for erythropoietin detection in athletes / Biossensor eletroquímico para detecção de eritropoietina em atletas / Biosensor electroquímico para detección de eritropoyetina en deportistas

ABSTRACT Introduction: The cytokine erythropoietin (EPO) is a crucial hormone for producing RBCs, which carry oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. Objective: This paper aimed to create an electrochemical detection based on Fe2O3-NiO nanoparticles and graphene oxide to measure EPO levels in athletes' blood. Methods: On a glassy carbon electrode, Fe2O3-NiO@GO was synthesized using the electrochemical deposition method. Results: The Fe2O3-NiO@GO/GCE was validated by structural characterizations using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The Fe2O3-NiO@GO/GCE was found to be a suitable and stable erythropoietin biosensor with a linear range of 0-500 ng/l and a detection limit of 0.03ng/l in electrochemical tests using the DPV technique. Fe2O3-NiO@GO/erythropoietin was investigated as a biosensor for erythropoietin in athlete's plasma. Conclusion: The results showed that the values obtained for recovery (94.56% to 98.40) and RSD (2.01% to 3.22%) were acceptable, indicating that the suggested technique can be used as a practical erythropoietin biosensor in blood samples. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.

RESUMO Introdução: A citocina eritropoietina (EPO), é referida como um hormônio crucial para a produção de hemácias, que transportam o sangue oxigenado para o resto dos corpos. Objetivos: O objetivo deste trabalho foi criar uma detecção eletroquímica baseada em nanopartículas de Fe2O3-NiO e óxido de grafeno para medir os níveis de EPO no sangue dos atletas. Métodos: Em um eletrodo de carbono vítreo, o Fe2O3-NiO@GO foi sintetizado usando o método de deposição eletroquímica. Resultados: O Fe2O3-NiO@GO/GCE foi validado por caracterizações estruturais utilizando microscopia eletrônica de varredura (SEM). O Fe2O3-NiO@GO/GCE foi considerado um biosensor eritropoietina adequado e estável com uma faixa linear de 0-500 ng/l e um limite de detecção de 0,03ng/l em testes eletroquímicos utilizando a técnica DPV. O Fe2O3-NiO@GO/extropoietina foi investigado como um biosensor de eritropoietina no plasma do atleta. Conclusão: Os resultados mostraram que os valores obtidos para recuperação (94,56% a 98,40) e RSD (2,01% a 3,22%) foram aceitáveis, indicando que a técnica sugerida pode ser usada como um prático biosensor de eritropoietina em amostras de sangue. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción: La citoquina eritropoyetina (EPO), se conoce como una hormona crucial para la producción de glóbulos rojos, que transportan la sangre oxigenada al resto del cuerpo. Objetivos: El objetivo de este trabajo fue crear una detección electroquímica basada en nanopartículas de Fe2O3-NiO y óxido de grafeno para medir los niveles de EPO en la sangre de los deportistas. Métodos: Sobre un electrodo de carbono vítreo, se sintetizó Fe2O3-NiO@GO mediante el método de deposición electroquímica. Resultados: El Fe2O3-NiO@GO/GCE fue validado por caracterizaciones estructurales mediante microscopía electrónica de barrido (SEM). El Fe2O3-NiO@GO/GCE resultó ser un biosensor de eritropoyetina adecuado y estable con un rango lineal de 0-500 ng/l y un límite de detección de 0,03ng/l en ensayos electroquímicos mediante la técnica DPV. Se investigó el uso de Fe2O3-NiO@GO/extropoietina como biosensor de eritropoyetina en el plasma de atletas. Conclusión: Los resultados mostraron que los valores obtenidos para la recuperación (94,56% a 98,40) y la RSD (2,01% a 3,22%) fueron aceptables, lo que indica que la técnica sugerida puede ser utilizada como un biosensor práctico de eritropoyetina en muestras de sangre. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

Associação entre Nível de Big Endotelina-1 Plasmática e a Gravidade da Doença Arterial Coronariana em Pacientes com Infarto do Miocárdio sem Supradesnivelamento do Segmento ST / Association between Plasma Big Endothelin-1 Level and The Severity of Coronary Artery Disease in Patients with Non-ST Segment-Elevated Myocardial Infarction

Resumo Fundamento A estratificação de risco precoce com biomarcadores simples é essencial em pacientes com infarto do miocárdio sem supradesnivelamento do segmento ST (IAMSSST). Objetivo Este estudo tem o objetivo de avaliar a associação entre nível de big endotelina-1 plasmática (ET-1) e o escore SYNTAX (SS) em pacientes com IAMSSST. Métodos Foram recrutados 766 pacientes com IAMSSST que passaram por angiografia coronária. Os pacientes foram divididos em três grupos: SS baixo (≤22), SS intermediário (23-32), e SS alto (>32). A correlação de Spearman, o ajuste de curva suave, a regressão logística, e a análise de curva característica de operação do receptor (ROC) foram realizados para avaliar a associação entre o nível de big ET-1 plasmática e o SS. Um p-valor <0.05 foi considerado estatisticamente significativo. Resultados Foi identificada uma correlação significativa entre a big ET-1 e o SS (r=0,378, p<0,001). A curva suavizada indicou uma correlação positiva entre o nível de big ET-1 plasmática e o SS. A análise de curva ROC demonstrou que a área sob a curva foi de 0,695 (0,661-0,727) e o ponto de corte ideal do nível de big ET-1 plasmática foi de 0,35 pmol/l. A regressão logística demonstrou que a big ET-1 elevada era um preditor independente de SS intermediário a alto em pacientes com IAMSSST, seja como variável contínua [RC (IC 95%: 1,110 (1,053-1,170), p<0,001] ou como variável categórica [RC (IC 95%: 2,962 (2,073-4,233), p<0,001]. Conclusão Em pacientes com IAMSSST, o nível de big ET-1 plasmática estava significativamente correlacionado ao SS. O nível de big ET-1 plasmática elevado foi um preditor independente para SS intermediário a alto.

Abstract Background Early risk stratification with simple biomarkers is essential in patients with non-ST segment-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). Objective This study aimed to evaluate the association between plasma big endothelin-1 (ET-1) level and the SYNTAX score (SS) in patients with NSTEMI. Methods A total of 766 patients with NSTEMI undergoing coronary angiography were recruited. Patients were divided into three groups: low SS (≤22), intermediate SS (23-32), and high SS (>32). Spearman correlation, smooth curve fitting, logistic regression, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were performed to evaluate the association between plasma big ET-1 level and the SS. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results There was a significant correlation between the big ET-1 and the SS (r=0.378, p<0.001). The smoothing curve indicated a positive correlation between the plasma big ET-1 level and the SS. The ROC curve analysis showed that the area under the curve was 0.695 (0.661-0.727) and the optimal cutoff of plasma big ET-1 level was 0.35pmol/l. Logistic regression showed that elevated big ET-1 was an independent predictor of intermediate-high SS in patients with NSTEMI, whether entered as a continuous variable [OR (95% CI): 1.110 (1.053-1.170), p<0.001] or as a categorical variable [OR (95% CI): 2.962 (2.073-4.233), p<0.001]. Conclusion In patients with NSTEMI, the plasma big ET-1 level was significantly correlated with the SS. Elevated plasma big ET-1 level was an independent predictor for intermediate-high SS.

Sexual orientation and characteristics of sexual behaviors among 200 HIV positive male college students in Beijing / 中国学校卫生

Objective@#To understand sexual orientation and characteristics of sexual behaviors related with HIV infection among HIV positive male college students in Beijing and to provide suggestions for development of sexual health education and HIV prevention strategy for student population.@*Methods@#HIV positive male college students diagnosed from 2016 to June 30, 2019 in Beijing were recruited. Questionnaire was used to retrospectively investigate sexual orientation and characteristics of sexual behaviors before HIV infection. Behaviors related to HIV infection were compared between absolutely homosexual and others sexual orientation.@*Results@#The average age of male students firstly identified to be HIV positive was (22.18±2.70) years old, 61.5%(123) of them were undergraduate, 69.5%(139) were not registered permanent residency in Beijing, 38.5%(77) of their interviewed sexual partners were from online chat and 83.0%(166) had homosexual behaviors. Sexual orientation score analysis showed that 50.0% of the participants self identified as exclusively homosexual. Compared with other sexual oriental group, exclusively homosexual group had lower mean age of their HIV infection firstly identified（ t =2.77， P =0.01）, higher rate of Rush use, firstly insertive sexual behavior with male, firstly insertive sexual behavior before 18 years old, sexual partners more than three persons, having regular partners, nonpersistent use of condom, being diagnosed of sexual transmitted disease and the frequency of homosexual behaviors more than 1 time per month （ χ 2=5.15,28.06,4.16,5.34,5.89,7.39,6.68, P <0.05）. Rush users had higher rate of STD diagnosis than non users in exclusively homosexual group ( χ 2=6.26， P =0.01).@*Conclusion@#Risky sexual behaviors associated with HIV infection were higher in exclusively homosexual group then other sexual orientation groups among HIV positive male college students. Family and school should concern with sexual health education byreinforcing health education via network media to improve college students’ awarenees on HIV/AIDS.

Rush use and related factors among HIV positive young male students in Beijing / 中国学校卫生

Objective@#This study investigated the use of rush and related factors among HIV positive male students in Beijing, and provided suggestions for education and intervention.@*Methods@#Data on HIV positive male students was collected from 2017 to June 30, 2020 in Beijing and analyzed in SPSS 20.0.@*Results@#A total of 200 valid questionnaires were collected. The mean age at HIV diagnosis was (22.18±2.70) years. The rate of using rush was 46.00%. The proportion with homosexual behavior before infection was 92.00%. The results of multivariate analysis showed that meeting sexual partners through the Internet( OR=3.84, 95%CI =1.65-8.96), drinking alcohol( OR=3.26, 95%CI =1.51-7.02), group homosexual behavior( OR=4.84, 95%CI =1.71-13.71), and STD diagnosis ( OR=0.23, 95%CI =1.02-4.87) were associated with the use of rush before infection.@*Conclusion@#The rate of rush use was higher among male students infected with HIV. Government regulation could be strengthened and drug abuse could be prevented through better health education for students.

125I brachytherapy seeds implantation for an inoperable large retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma

Retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma is relatively uncommon. Leiomyosarcoma has accounted for about 5%-10% of soft-tissue sarcoma, and 1/2–2/3 of the primary lesions were retroperitoneal, with a cumulative 5-year survival rate of only 35%.Leiomyosarcoma is one kind of soft-tissue sarcoma with the lowest survival rates due to the invasive growth, difficult treatment, and poor prognosis.The present study reported a case of a 78-year-old male diagnosed as left retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma, who had received three operations. Computed tomography (CT) demonstrated a mass of approximately 12.9 cm × 6.9 cm × 6.6 cm in his retroperitoneal region. The Eastern cooperative oncology group and numerical rating scale scores of pain were 1 and 5, respectively. Multiple treatment strategies were administered, including the application of drainage and125I seed implantation. A total of 90125I seeds were implanted into the tumor through repetitious operations, with 30 seeds each time. Treatment planning system was involved to calculate the source distribution.125I seeds with the activity of 0.5 mCi were implanted under the guidance of CT, and dosimetric verification was performed after the operation. D90 (90% minimum prescription dose received by target volume) was 40 Gy. Follow-up was performed after 6 months, and complete response was achieved in the local lesions. However, there was no evidence-based treatment currently and the majority of our knowledge was based on results from case reports, thus further studies would be required

Mir-30b-3p affects the migration and invasion function of ovarian cancer cells by targeting the CTHRC1 gene

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect role and mechanism of miR-30b-3p on ovarian cancer cells biological function. METHODS: The expression of miR-30b-3p was detected in ovarian cancer cell lines and normal ovarian epithelial cell line by qRT-PCR. Mir-30b-3p mimic was transfected into OVCAR3 cells. Cell-counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was conducted to explore the effect of mir-30b-3p on the OVCAR3 cells' proliferation. Cell cycle and apoptosis were detected by Flow cytometry. Cell invasion ability was detected by Transwell test. The regulation of putative target of miR-30b-3p was verified by double luciferase reporter assays and Western blot. RESULT: We found that miR-30b-3p was downregulated in OVCAR3 cells. Overexpression of miR-30b-3p suppressed proliferation, promoted apoptosis, slowed cell cycle and inhibited migration and invasion of OVCAR3 cells. Bioinformatics analysis identified 3'-untranslated region (3'UTR) of Collagen triple helix repeat-containing 1 (CTHRC1) as the presumed binding site for miR-30b-3p. Detection of double luciferase reporter and Western-Blot result confirmed that CTHRC1 was the target gene of miR-30b-3p. Furthermore, E-cadherin, ß-cadherin and Vimentin protein expression level were changed after transfection of miR-30b-3p. CONCLUSION: miR-30b-3p function as an anti-cancer gene. Overexpression of miR-30b-3p can inhibit the biological function of ovarian cancer cells. MiR-30b-3p targets CTHRC1 gene plays an important role in epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT), and supports miR-30b-3p as a potential biological indicator for ovarian cancer in the future.

Transcriptome and proteome analyses of resistant preharvest peanut seed coat in response to Aspergillus flavus infection

BACKGROUND: The infection of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) seed coat by the pathogenic fungus Aspergillus flavus has highly negative economic and health impacts. However, the molecular mechanism underlying such defense response remains poorly understood. This study aims to address this issue by profiling the transcriptomic and proteomic changes that occur during the infection of the resistant peanut cultivar J11 by A. flavus. RESULTS: Transcriptomic study led to the detection of 13,539 genes, among which 663 exhibited differential expression. Further functional analysis found the differentially expressed genes to encode a wide range of pathogenesis- and/or defense-related proteins such as transcription factors, pathogenesis-related proteins, and chitinases. Changes in the expression patterns of these genes might contribute to peanut resistance to A. flavus. On the other hand, the proteomic profiling showed that 314 of the 1382 detected protein candidates were aberrantly expressed as a result of A. flavus invasion. However, the correlation between the transcriptomic and proteomic data was poor. We further demonstrated by in vitro fungistasis tests that hevamine-A, which was enriched at both transcript and protein levels, could directly inhibit the growth of A. flavus. Conclusions: The results demonstrate the power of complementary transcriptomic and proteomic analyses in the study of pathogen defense and resistance in plants and the chitinase could play an important role in the defense response of peanut to A. flavus. The current study also constitutes the first step toward building an integrated omics data platform for the development of Aspergillus-resistant peanut cultivars

Precision dose measurement of 125I seed in solid water through SPECT/CT detecting

Purpose: The aim of the study is to study the feasibility of gamma-ray-detection-based precision dose measurement of 125I seed brachytherapy in solid water. Materials and Methods: Seven group 125I seeds with different activities were put into a hole in the center of solid water individually. Each group had ten seeds, and the seed activity ranged from 1.48 × 107 Bq to 3.7 × 107 Bq. Single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) was used to scan the seeds perpendicular to the long axis of the seed, with a slice thickness of 3.75 mm. The radioactive count values (x) of the radioactive concentration around the seeds were collected at a distance of 1–15 mm from the center of the seeds, while the corresponding doses (Y) (Gy) were calculated. SPSS 18.0 was used to analyze the relationship between the count value and the dose. Results: With the same seed activity, the count values became smaller according to the distance from the center of the seeds. The count values at the same point had an increasing trend according to the activity. This is similar to the doses calculated at the same point. There was an exponential relationship between the dose around the 125I seeds, and the radioactive count value detected by SPECT/CT. Correlative curves between the dose and radioactive count value detected by SPECT/CT of different-activity 125I seeds were fitted. The formulas of the dose and radioactive count with different seed activity were in the form of Y = b0 (b1)x. The constant b0 ranged from 1.48 to 3.93, according to the seed activity, while b1 was 1.006 for every seed's activity. Conclusion: The count value around the 125I seed can be detected accurately by SPECT/CT, and then can be quantified. This study provided useful experiment data for the precision measurement of 125I seed implantation. Radiation detection-based dose measurement may become a new noninvasive technology for the dynamic dosimetry verification method after brachytherapy

Neglect and associated factors among preschool children in two-child families in southwest Shandong Province / 中国学校卫生

Objective@#To investigate neglect among preschool children in two-child families in southwest Shandong Province, and to provide reference is for improving nursing parenting quality of two-child families.@*Methods@#A questionnaire survey was conducted among 2 646 parents of two-child families and 2 074 parents of one-child families from 16 kindergartens in southwest Shandong Province.@*Results@#The total neglect rate of two-child family preschool children in southwest Shandong Province was 27.37%, and the degree score of neglect was(40.15±5.51). The physical neglect rate(10.39%), emotional neglect rate(40.15±5.51), total neglect (38.15±4.88) and emotional neglect (46.12±6.91) of boys were higher than those of girls, and the difference was statistically significant(χ2/t=4.57, 6.65, 4.58, 4.72, P<0.05); No significant frequencies were found in total neglect rate, total neglect, neglect rate and neglect at all levels among all age groups(P>0.05); Among preschool children with siblings aged 7-<13, ≥13, total neglect rate(30.44%, 32.77%), emotional neglect rate(10.20%,12.00%), total neglect degree (44.71±5.98, 45.33±5.20) and emotional neglect degree (45.95±7.12, 48.86±4.97) of preschool children in two-child families have higher than those in onechild families, and the differences were of statistical significance(χ2/t=31.10, 4.55, 27.92, 24.13, 19.83, P<0.05); the total neglect rate(27.37%), emotional neglect rate(23.47%), emotional neglect (43.68±6.83) of twochild families and the total neglect (40.15±5.51) were higher than those of one-child families, and the differences were of statistical significance(χ2/t=4.98, 4.96, 3.76, 8.53, P<0.05). The age of siblings(OR=0.58), the education level of mothers(OR=0.64), and the main executor of family education (OR=1.54) were main factors to influence the child neglect of preschool children in two-child families(P<0.05).@*Conclusion@#Neglect of preschool children in two-child families is higher than that in one-child families in southwest Shandong, especially among those preschool boys and preschool children whose siblings were of school age.

Effects of surface proteins and lipids on molecular structure, thermal properties, and enzymatic hydrolysis of rice starch

Abstract Rice starches with different amylose contents were treated with sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) to deplete surface proteins and lipids, and the changes in molecular structure, thermal properties, and enzymatic hydrolysis were evaluated. SDS treatment did not significantly change the molecular weight distribution, crystalline structure, short-range ordered degree, and gelatinization properties of starch, but significantly altered the pasting properties and increased the swelling power of starch. The removal of surface proteins and lipids increased the enzymatic hydrolysis and in vitro digestion of starch. The influences of removing surface proteins and lipids from starch on swelling power, pasting properties, and enzymatic hydrolysis were different among the various starches because of the differences in molecular structures of different starch styles. The aforementioned results indicated that removing the surface proteins and lipids from starch did not change the molecular structure but had significant effects on some functional properties.

Mild Encephalopathy/Encephalitis with a Reversible Splenial Lesion (MERS): A Report of Five Neonatal Cases / 华中科技大学学报（医学）（英德文版）

Mild encephalopathy/encephalitis with a reversible spleniat (MERS) lesion is a clinic-radiological entity.The clinical features of MERS in neonates are still not systemically reported.This paper presents five cases of MERS,and the up-to-date reviews of previously reported cases were collected and analyzed in the literature.Here we describe five cases clinically diagnosed with MERS.All of them were neonates and the average age was about 4 days.They were admitted for the common neurological symptoms such as hyperspasmia,poor reactivity and delirium.Auxiliary examinations during hospitalization also exhibited features in common.In this report,we reached following conclusions.Firstly,magnetic resonance imaging revealed solitary or comprehensive lesions in the splenium of corpus callosum,some of them extending to almost the whole corpus callosum.The lesions showed low intensity signal on Tl-weighted images,homogeneously hyperintense signal on T2-weighted images,fluid-attenuated inversion recovery and diffusion-weighted images,and exhibited an obvious reduced diffusion on apparent diffusion coefficient map.Moreover,the lesions in the magnetic resonance imaging disappeared very quickly even prior to the clinical recovery.Secondly,all the cases depicted here suffered electrolyte disturbances especially hyponatremia which could be easily corrected.Lastly,all of the cases recovered quickly over one week to one month and majority of them exhibited signs of infections and normal electroencephalography.

Expression analysis of three immune genes Interferon-gamma, Mx and Interferon regulatory factor-1 of Japanese flounder ( Paralichthys olivaceus )

ABSTRACT IFN-γ (Interferon-gamma), Mx and IRF-1 (Interferon regulatory factor-1) are main immune-related genes and they play important roles in the innate immune system of vertebrates. In this study, the expression level of the three immune-related genes in twelve tissues of normal adult Japanese flounder was detected using semi-quantitative RT-PCR. Thirteen time points (3h, 6h, 9h, 12h, 24h, 36h, 48h, 60h, 72h, 84h, 96h, 108h, 120h) were selected to analyze the expression of IFN-γ, Mx and IRF-1 in spleen, head kidney, liver of Japanese flounder infected with Lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The Japanese flounder IFN-γ, Mx and IRF-1 genes were differently expressed in these tissues and had high expression levels in classical fish immune organs like spleen and head kidney. It was found that the highest expression levels of the Japanese flounder IFN-γ were detected at 24h in spleen, 36h in head kidney and 48h in liver after challenge with LPS. Interestingly, the highest expression levels of Mx in spleen and head kidney were both at 36h and IRF-1 in spleen and liver were both at 24h. The highest expression level of Mx in liver was at 48h and IRF-1 in head kidney was at 12h. The study provides a basis for further research on immune mechanism of IFN-γ, Mx, IRF-1 and the production of recombinant IFN-γ, Mx or IRF-1 used in Japanese flounder cultivation in future.

Effects of "Nourishing Liver and Kidney" Acupuncture Therapy on Expression of Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Synaptophysin after Cerebral Ischemia Reperfusion in Rats / 华中科技大学学报（医学）（英德文版）

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of "nourishing liver and kidney" acupuncture therapy on motor and cognitive deficits,and the underlying mechanism following cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) via increasing the expression of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and synaptophysin (SYN) in the hippocampus.Healthy adult male SD rats were randomly divided into sham operation group (n=51),model group (n=51),acupuncture group (n=51) and acupuncture control group (n=51).The middle cerebral I/R model was established.Acupunctures were performed in the acupuncture group and acupuncture control group at acupoints of Taixi (K103),Taichong (ST09) of both sides,for 30 min once daily every morning.The animals in the sham operation group and model group were conventionally fed in the cage,without any intervention therapy.The rats of each group were assessed with modified neurological severity scores (mNSS).The expression of BDNF and SYN in the hippocampus was detected by immunohistochemical SP method and the synaptic structure in hippocampus area was assessed morphologically and quantitatively at the 3rd,7th and 14th day.The Morris water Maze (MWM) test was used to evaluate the rats' learning and memory abilities on the 15th day after acupuncture.The animals in the acupuncture control group and sham operation group presented no neurological deficit.In the acupuncture group,the nerve functional recovery was significantly better than that in the model group at the 7th and 14th day after modeling.The average MWM escape latency in the acupuncture group was shorter than that in the model group at the 3rd,4th and 5th day.The number of crossings of the platform quadrant in the acupuncture group was significantly more than that in the model group.At the each time point,the expression levels of BDNF and SYN in the hippocampal regions increased significantly in the model group as compared with the sham operation group and the acupuncture control group.In the acupuncture group,the expression levels of BDNF at the 7th and 14th day increased more significantly than those in the model group.In the acupuncture group,the expression levels of SYN at the each time point increased more significantly than those in the model group.The post-synaptic density (PSD) was significantly increased and the synapse cleft width was narrowed in the acupuncture group as compared with other groups.The synaptic curvatures were improved obviously in the acupuncture group in contrast to the model group.It was concluded that the "nourishing liver and kidney" acupuncture therapy has positive effects on behavioral recovery,as well as learning and memory abilities,probably by promoting the expression of BDNF and SYN,and synaptic structure reconstruction in the ipsilateral hippocampus after I/R in rats.The "nourishing liver and kidney" acupuncture therapy can promote the functional recovery in rats after cerebral ischemia injury.

Culture and Identification of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Enhanced Green Fluorescent Protein-transgenic Rats / 中国医学科学院学报

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To isolate, culture, and identify bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) from enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)-transgenic rats in vitro.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Bone marrows were isolated from tibia and femur of healthy EGFP-transgenic rats of specific pathogen free (SPF) grade. Then,the whole bone marrow adherent method was used for isolation,culture,and purification of BMSCs. The morphological change was noted by continuous observation under inverted fluorescence microscope. The growth curve of cells was drawn through the method of CCK-8 and the proliferation compared with wild type BMSCs. The surface markers of BMSCs were detected by flow cytometry. The BMSCs were induced to differentiate into osteoblasts, adipocytes, and chondrocytes lineages. The EGFP-BMSCs were transplanted into the rats intravenously, and the expression of GFP was detected.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>BMSCs stably expressing EGFP gene were obtained successfully, with the fusiform-shaped appearance and the forming of circinate cell colonies. The growth curve of EGFP-MSCs showed the characteristic of active proliferation, showing no significant difference compared with the wild-type BMSCs. The expression rates of the surface markers of BMSCs CD29, CD90, CD34, CD49d, and CD45 were 99.4%, 96.4%, 0.171%, 0.049%, and 0.038%. The GFP were detected in lung 3 days after transplantation. After osteogenic, adipogenic, and chondrogenic induction, oil red-O and alizarin red positive signals and toluidine blue positive cells were detected.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>High-purity BMSCs stably expressing green fluorescent protein gene can be cultured using the whole bone marrow adherent method. EGFP does not affect the stem cell properties and expresses stably after transplantation. The cells can be used as seed cells for subsequent research.</p>

The predictive value of early indicators for HBeAg seroconversion in HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B patients with Telbivudine treatment for 104 weeks.

Purpose: Through an observation on HBeAg-positive chronic hepatits B (CHB) patients in Telbivudine (LDT) treatment for 104 weeks, we tried to explore valuable early predictors for HBeAg seroconversion during the treatment. Materials and Methods: A prospective study lasting for 104 weeks was conducted, and the patients enrolled were administered with LDT 600 mg daily. The medical evaluation went every 12 weeks, then the age distribution, baseline ALT level, early HBVDNA, HBsAg and HBeAg levels at baseline, week 12 and 24 as well as the decrease of the three indicators at week 12 and 24 were analyzed for their predictive values for HBeAg seroconversion at week 104. Result: Thirty-three patients fi nished the observation. All patients got ALT normalisation and 28 patients (84.84%) got complete virological response (HBV DNA < 291 copies/ml) at week 104. Poor virological response and virologic breakthrough was observed in two (6.06%) and three patients (9.09%), respectively. Nine patients (27.27%) got HBeAg seroconversion. HBeAg levels and its decrease levels at week 12 and 24 showed signifi cant differences between patients with and without HBeAg seroconversion. And the HBsAg levels at week 12 and 24 showed tendencies of signifi cant differences in two groups. HBeAg level at week 24 was confi rmed related to its longer term seroconversion in regression analysis. The patients with HBeAg level < 2.1 S/CO at week 24 would be more possible to get HBeAg seroconversion at week 104, with sensitivity, specifi city, positive and negative predictive value of 95.83%, 88.89%, 95.8% and 88.9%, respectively. Conclusion: Good effi cacy of long-term LDT treatment in biological and virological response and its advantage in serological response was confi rmed again in our study. The HBeAg level at week 24 showed signifi cant value in prediction for HBeAg seroconversion at week 104 compared to other serological markers in the early period.

The Importance of Allergen Avoidance in High Risk Infants and Sensitized Patients: A Meta-analysis Study

PURPOSE: At this time, there is uncertainty regarding whether allergen avoidance is the most appropriate strategy for managing or preventing allergies. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of allergen avoidance in the prevention of allergic symptoms in previously sensitized patients and newborns that have the potential to develop allergies. METHODS: We performed online searches of articles published from January 1980 to December 2012 in PubMed and The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and selected articles involving randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and allergen avoidance. The parameters used to determine allergenic potential in newborns included the risk ratio (RR) of eczema, asthma, rhinitis, wheeze, and cough. The methods employed to evaluate previously sensitized patients were the standardized mean difference (SMD) of forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). Data quality was assessed using the Jadad scale. RESULTS: A total of 14 RCTs were identified. Meta-analysis demonstrated that allergen avoidance for newborns did not reduce the subsequent incidence of allergic diseases (eczema, P=0.21; rhinitis, P=0.3; cough, P=0.1) but significantly reduced the incidence of asthma and wheezing in high-risk infants (asthma, P=0.03; wheeze, P=0.0004). However, previously sensitized patients who reduced their exposure to known allergens did not show improvement in their lung functions (FEV1, P=0.3; PEFR morning, P=0.53; PEFR evening, P=0.2; PEFR, P=0.29). CONCLUSIONS: Allergen avoidance may not always be successful in preventing allergic symptoms. However, rigorous methodological studies are required to confirm this hypothesis.

Effects of Epstein-Barr virus on the development of dendritic cells derived from cord blood monocytes: an essential role for apoptosis

OBJECTIVE: Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a ubiquitous human γ-herpes virus, which can adapt and evade host immune defense. Dendritic cells (DCs) play a pivotal role in the initiation and maintenance of immune responses. This study investigated the effects of EBV on cord blood monocytes derived DCs (CBDC). METHODS: Monocytes were isolated from cord blood and cultured in medium containing recombinant IL-4 and GM-CSF to induce DCs development. B95-8 supernatant was added in monocytes culture medium for EBV infection at day 0. Phenotypic characterization of DCs, apoptotic cells, and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were detected by flow cytometry. The morphology was observed by Hoechst 33258 staining and TUNEL staining, the expression of X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) was detected by Western blotting assay and caspase 3, 8 and 9 activity was measured. RESULTS: Phenotypic characterization of DCs was changed in EBV-treated group. Chromatin condensation and DNA fragmentation were observed in EBV induced CBDC apoptosis. In addition, caspase 3, caspase 8, and caspase 9 activation were enhanced in the EBV-treated group. This was accompanied by the loss of MMP. Furthermore, XIAP expression was down-regulated in the EBV-treated group and compared to mock-infected group. CONCLUSION: These results suggested that EBV could inhibit CBDC phenotypic differentiation, and induce CBDC apoptosis in caspase-dependent manner with involvement of the mitochondrial pathway. This might help EBV to evade host immune responses to establish persistent infection.

Aberrant gap junction and tumor / 国际肿瘤学杂志

Gap junctions are membrane structures made of intercellular channels that allow directly exchange of material and information between adjacent cells. It is the structural basis of gap junctional intercellular communication. Gap junction is aberrant frequently in variety of cancers, which relatives with tumor genesis and metastasis. New anti-cancer drugs targeting gap junctions will be a new direction for tumor treatment.

Changes in Number and Biological Function of Endothelial Progenitor Cells in Hypertension Disorder Complicating Pregnancy / 华中科技大学学报（医学）（英德文版）

To examine the changes in number and function of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs)from peripheral blood (PB) in hypertension disorder complicating pregnancy (HDCP), 20 women with HDCP and 20 normal pregnant women at the third trimester were studied. Mononuclear cells (MNCs) from PB were isolated by Ficoll density gradient centrifugation. EPCs were identified by positive expression of both CD34 and CD133 under fluorescence microscope and positive expression of factor Ⅷ as shown by immunocytochemistry. The number of EPCs was flow-cytometrically determined. Proliferation and migration of EPCs were measured by MTT assay and modified Boyden chamber assay, respectively. The adhesion activity of EPCs was detected by counting the number of the adherent cells. The results showed that, compared with normal pregnant women, the number of EPCs was significantly reduced in HDCP (4.29%±1.21% vs 15.32%±2.00%, P<0.01), the functional activity of EPCs in HDCE such as proliferation (13.45%±1.68% vs 18.45%±1.67%), migration (37.25 ± 7.28 cells/field vs 67.10±9.55 cells/field) and adhesion activity (20.65±5.19 cells/field vs 34.40±6.72 cells/filed) was impaired (P<0.01). It is concluded that the number and function of EPCs are significantly decreased in HDCP.