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The small sized Au/Ag2Se core/shell nanoparticles are synthesized in the organic environment. This nanostructure has a good nonlinear figures of merit. The changes of the plasmon absorption peak of the samples are obtained by UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The Au/Ag2Se core/shell nanoparticles exhibit fascinating nonlinear optical properties which are studied by using Z-scan technology. The nonlinear absorption coefficient β and nonlinear refractive index γ show regular changes from Au to Au/Ag2Se core/shell nanoparticles. This also caused that their one-photon figures of merit W increase and the two-photon figures of merit T decrease. Finally, the figures of merit W = 4.15 and T = 0.58 of the Au/Ag2Se core/shell nanoparticles satisfy the demand of the application of all-optical switch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the cold roll forming process of complex crosssectional steel, the local thickness reduction is one of the major problems to be solved for increasing requirements regarding tolerances. The prediction of the local thickness reduction during the roll forming process in the bending zones is gaining more and more importance. Based on the elastic plasticity deformation theory, the 3D finite element analysis (FEA) models have been built by the professional software COPPA RF and MSC MARC to simulate the cold roll forming process. Roll forming tests and the local thickness reduction analyses were performed to compare with FEA simulation results. An application to a hat-shaped section profile and the effect of forming parameters on transverse strains and the local thickness reduction are discussed. The linear regression method was applied to evaluate its effect on the local thickness reduction by using Minitab software. Results indicate that the loading pattern and the roll diameter have the greatest impacts on local thickness reduction and transverse strains in the bending regions. The findings were applied to optimize the abatement of local thickness reduction for the novel elevator guide rail roll forming lines. The predicted thickness reduction values in cold roll forming proves in good agreement with experimental results, and the complex cross-sectional steel with high quality is produced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The β1-adrenergic receptor (AR) is the primary β-AR subtype in the heart and is the target of metoprolol (Met), which is commonly used to treat angina and hypertension. Previous studies have revealed a positive correlation between the methylation levels of the adrenoreceptor β1 gene (Adrb1) promoter in the myocardium with the antihypertensive activity of Met in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), which affects β1-AR expression in H9C2 cells. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of myocardial β1-AR downregulation using short-hairpin RNA (shRNA) against Adrb1 on the antihypertensive activity of Met in SHR. Recombinant adeno-associated virus type 9 (rAAV9) vectors carrying Adrb1 shRNA (rAAV9-Adrb1) or a negative control sequence (rAAV9-NC) were generated and used to infect rat hearts via the pericardial cavity. The results of reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry and western blotting analyses demonstrated that cardiac β1-AR expression in the rAAV9-Adrb1 group was significantly downregulated when compared with the rAAV9-NC group (P<0.001, P<0.001 and P=0.032, respectively). In addition, a greater reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP) was observed in the rAAV9-NC group compared with the rAAV9-Adrb1 group following Met treatment (P=0.035). Furthermore, downregulation of myocardial β1-AR was associated with a significant decrease in SBP (P<0.001). In conclusion, these data suggest that suppression of β1-AR expression in the myocardium reduces SBP and sensitivity to Met in SHR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic hyperthermia is a fast emerging, non-invasive cancer treatment method which is used synergistically with the existing cancer therapeutics. We have attempted to address the current challenges in clinical magnetic hyperthermia- improved biocompatibility and enhanced heating characteristics, through a single combinatorial approach. Both superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) of size 10 nm and ferrimagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (FIONs) of size 30 nm were synthesized by thermal decomposition method for comparison studies. Two different surface modifying agents, viz, Cetyl Trimethyl Ammonium Bromide and 3-Aminopropyltrimethoxysilane, were used to conjugate Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) over the iron oxide nanoparticles via two different methods--surface charge adsorption and covalent amide bonding, respectively. The preliminary haemolysis and cell viability experiments show that BSA conjugation mitigates the haemolytic effect of the iron oxide nanoparticles on erythrocytes and is non-cytotoxic to the healthy Baby Hamster Kidney cells. It was observed from the results that due to better colloidal stability, the SAR value of the BSA-iron oxide nanoparticles is higher than the iron oxide nanoparticles without BSA, irrespective of the size of the iron oxide nanoparticles and method of conjugation. The BSA-FIONs seem to show improved biocompatibility, as the haemolytic index is less than 2 % and cell viability is up to 120 %, when normalized with the control. The SAR value of BSAFIONs is 2300 W g-1 when compared to 1700 W g-1 of FIONs without BSA conjugation. Thus, we report here that BSA conjugation over FIONs (with a high saturation magnetization of 87 emu g-1) provide a single combinatorial approach to improve the biocompatibility and enhance the SAR value for magnetic hyperthermia, thus addressing both the current challenges of the same. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dyslipidemia is one of the most important independent modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors for dyslipidemia in Shenzhen, a special economic zone and large metropolitan area neighboring Hong Kong. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 1,995 adults with a mean age of 46.56 years was conducted between February and July 2011 using a multistage stratified cluster random sampling. All the subjects were administered questionnaires regarding socio-demographic characteristics and other possible factors associated with the prevalence of dyslipidemia. Fasting venous blood samples were collected to assess the lipid profile. Weight, height, waist circumference, and blood pressure were measured. Results: The mean concentrations of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were 5.11 ± 1.15 mmol/L, 1.59 ± 1.47 mmol/L, 1.42 ± 0.33 mmol/L, and 3.22 ± 0.84 mmol/L, respectively. High values of TC, TG, low HDL-C, and high LDL-C were obtained in 14.49 %, 16.14 %, 8.82 %, and 12.13 % of the 1,995 participants, respectively. The prevalence of dyslipidemia was 34.64 %, among which 25.04 % of subjects were aware. Presence of dyslipidemia was significantly associated with increasing age, smoking status, hypertension, diabetes, and body mass index. Conclusions: High prevalence of dyslipidemia with relative low awareness in Shenzhen was found. A comprehensive strategy is required for the prevention, screening, treatment, and control of dyslipidemia in Shenzhen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dyslipidemia is one of the most important independent modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors for dyslipidemia in Shenzhen, a special economic zone and large metropolitan area neighboring Hong Kong. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 1,995 adults with a mean age of 46.56 years was conducted between February and July 2011 using a multistage stratified cluster random sampling. All the subjects were administered questionnaires regarding socio-demographic characteristics and other possible factors associated with the prevalence of dyslipidemia. Fasting venous blood samples were collected to assess the lipid profile. Weight, height, waist circumference, and blood pressure were measured. Results: The mean concentrations of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were 5.11 ± 1.15 mmol/L, 1.59 ± 1.47 mmol/L, 1.42 ± 0.33 mmol/L, and 3.22 ± 0.84 mmol/L, respectively. High values of TC, TG, low HDL-C, and high LDL-C were obtained in 14.49 %, 16.14 %, 8.82 %, and 12.13 % of the 1,995 participants, respectively. The prevalence of dyslipidemia was 34.64 %, among which 25.04 % of subjects were aware. Presence of dyslipidemia was significantly associated with increasing age, smoking status, hypertension, diabetes, and body mass index. Conclusions: High prevalence of dyslipidemia with relative low awareness in Shenzhen was found. A comprehensive strategy is required for the prevention, screening, treatment, and control of dyslipidemia in Shenzhen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Hemophilia B is caused by coagulation defects in the factor IX gene located in Xq27.1 on the X chromosome. A wide range of mutations, showing extensive molecular heterogeneity, have been described in hemophilia B patients. Our study was aimed at genetic analysis and prenatal diagnosis of hemophilia B in order to further elucidate the pathogenesis of the hemophilia B pedigree in China. Materials and Methods: Polymerase chain reaction amplification and direct sequencing of all the coding regions was conducted in hemophilia B patients and carriers. Prenatal diagnosis of the proband was conducted at 20 weeks. Results: We identified the novel point mutation 10.389 A>G, located upstream of the intron 3 acceptor site in hemophilia B patients. The fetus of the proband's cousin was identified as a carrier. Conclusion: Our identification of a novel mutation in the F9 gene associated with hemophilia B provides novel insight into the pathogenesis of this genetically inherited disorder and also represents the basis of prenatal diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate whether low-dose heparin improves the condition of patients suffering from early disseminated intravascular coagulation (pre-DIC) during sepsis. In total, 37 patients were randomly divided into low-dose heparin intervention and control groups. The heparin group received a low-dose of heparin for 5-7 days, while the other group received only saline. The two groups were treated for sepsis. Blood samples were collected at various times and acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE)-II scores were recorded at day 1 and 7. In addition, the number of days applying mechanical ventilation and in the intensive care unit (ICU) were recorded, as well as the 28-day mortality rate. APACHE-II scores in the two groups decreased following treatment, however, scores in the heparin group decreased more significantly. Prothrombin fragment and thrombin-antithrombin complex levels in the heparin group were significantly decreased. In addition, the number of days applying a ventilator was fewer and the total stay in ICU was significantly shorter compared with the control group. Significantly fewer complications were observed in the heparin group, however, there was no significant difference in the 28-day mortality rate. In conclusion, low-dose heparin improves the hypercoagulable state of sepsis, which subsequently reduces the incidence of DIC or multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, decreasing the number of days of mechanical ventilation and hospitalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that inflammation plays fundamental roles in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke. Interleukin-16 (IL-16) is identified as a proinflammatory cytokine that is a key element in the ischemic cascade after cerebral ischemia. We aimed to examine the relationship between the IL-16 polymorphisms and the risk of ischemic stroke in a Chinese population. A total of 198 patients with ischemic stroke and 236 controls were genotyped using polymerase chain reactionrestriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and DNA sequencing method. We found that the rs11556218TG genotype and G allele of IL-16 were associated with significantly increased risks of ischemic stroke (TG versus TT, adjusted OR = 1.88; 95% CI, 1.15-3.07; G versus T, adjusted OR = 1.54; 95% CI, 1.05-2.27, resp.). However, there were no significant differences in the genotype and allele frequencies of IL-16 rs4778889 T/C and rs4072111 C/T polymorphisms between the two groups, even after stratification analyses by age, gender, and the presence or absence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, and hypertriglyceridemia. These findings indicate that the IL-16 polymorphism may be related to the etiology of ischemic stroke in the Chinese population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nephrin is a signalling cell–cell adhesion protein of the Ig superfamily and the first identified component of the slit diaphragm that forms the critical and ultimate part of the glomerular ultrafiltration barrier. The extracellular domains of the nephrin molecules form a network of homophilic and heterophilic interactions building the structural scaffold of the slit diaphragm between the podocyte foot processes. The intracellular domain of nephrin is connected indirectly to the actin cytoskeleton, is tyrosine phosphorylated, and mediates signalling from the slit diaphragm into the podocytes. CD2AP, podocin, Fyn kinase, and phosphoinositide 3-kinase are reported intracellular interacting partners of nephrin, although the biological roles of these interactions are unclarified. To characterize the structural properties and protein–protein interactions of the nephrin intracellular domain, we produced a series of recombinant nephrin proteins. These were able to bind all previously identified ligands, although the interaction with CD2AP appeared to be of extremely low stoichiometry. Fyn phosphorylated nephrin proteins efficientlyin vitro. This phosphorylation was required for the binding of phosphoinositide 3-kinase, and significantly enhanced binding of Fyn itself. A protein of 190 kDa was found to associate with the immobilized glutathioneS-transferase–nephrin. Peptide mass fingerprinting and amino acid sequencing identified this protein as IQGAP1, an effector protein of small GTPases Rac1 and Cdc42 and a putative regulator of cell–cell adherens junctions. IQGAP1 is expressed in podocytes at significant levels, and could be found at the immediate vicinity of the slit diaphragm. However, further studies are needed to confirm the biological significance of this interaction and its occurrencein vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are important metabolites derived from the gut microbiota through fermentation of dietary fiber. SCFAs participate a number of physiological and pathological processes in the human body, such as host metabolism, immune regulation, appetite regulation. Recent studies on gut-brain interaction have shown that SCFAs are important mediators of gut-brain interactions and are involved in the occurrence and development of many neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease. This review summarizes the current research on the potential roles and mechanisms of SCFAs in AD. First, we introduce the metabolic distribution, specific receptors and signaling pathways of SCFAs in human body. The concentration levels of SCFAs in AD patient/animal models are then summarized. In addition, we illustrate the effects and mechanisms of SCFAs on the cognitive level, pathological features (Aβ and tau) and neuroinflammation in AD. Finally, we analyze the translational value of SCFAs as potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study about the extent of the emerging epidemic cases of syphilis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infections (HIV) among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Shenzhen, Guangdong, China. The study also analyzes the reason of the increasing HIV and syphilis among MSM, the trends of the spread of infection, and the causes of the increasing spread of infection in order to develop an evidenced-based syphilis control program. Study subjects came from the three MSM saunas, three MSM bars, and one MSM clinic which is affiliated with the Shenzen Center for Chronic Disease Control. Three consecutive surveys were conducted on the study to determine the extent of the increasing sexually transmitted infections (STD's) among MSM.

Background: The study aimed to find predictive biomarkers to evaluate donor kidney function to predict graft dysfunction as well as to assess an early signs of acute graft rejection. Method: Twenty-seven deceased donors and 54 recipients who underwent a successful kidney transplantation were enrolled in the study. An assessment was made in sentm and urine from donors and recipients to measure the following biomarkers: neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), kidney injury molecule-1 (K1M-1), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 2 (TIMP-2) and urinary N-acetyl-b-D-glucosaminidase (uNAG). These biomarkers were used to establish a model for predicting a reduced graft function (RGF) classified as either a delayed or slow graft function. Result. Our analysis suggest that out of four tested biomarkers, the serum TIMP-2 and uNAG levels of the donors had a predictive value for RGF; the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUROC) of serum TIMP-2 and uNAG were 0.714 and 0.779, respectively. The combined best fitting prediction model of serum TIMP-2, uNAG, and creatinine levels was better in predicting RGF than the serum creatinine level alone. In addition, the recipient serum TIMP-2 level on the third day post-transplantation (D3) was associated with the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) on the seventh day post-transplantation (07; OR 1.119, 95% CI 1.016-1.233, p - 0.022). Furthermore, the ROC curve value revealed that the AUROC of TIMP-2 on D3 was 0.99 (95% CI 0.97-1, p < 0.001), and this was the best predictive value of the renal function on D7. Conclusions: Donor serum TIMP-2 and uNAG levels are useful predictive biomarkers because they can provide the donor-based prediction for RGF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of variant pseudorabies virus caused great economic losses in domestic farms in the recent past. The mice were infected with Halv strain PRV via intragastric administration, intranasal and subcutaneous into the cervical skin to study the Pseudorabies in mouse model. The gross lesions, microscopic lesions and the distribution of PRV in mice were investigated. All the mice in each group showed exciting and roughening of the fur and frequent scratching. Microscopic lesions included mild-to-severe interstitial pneumonia, hemorrhage and nonsuppurative encephalitis in brain. The distribution of PRV in three groups was different. In intragastric administration group, PRV antigens were distributed in brain hippocampus, medulla oblongata, gray substance spinal cord and intestinal submucosa. In intranasal group, PRV antigens were detected in gray substance spinal cord, pons, myocardial cells, pulmonary epithelial cells and lymphocytes in red pulp of the spleen. In subcutaneous group, the PRV antigens were located in the sensory and motor cortex, prefrontal cortex, gray matter in spinal cord, purkinje cells in the cerebellum and lymphocytes in the splenic red pulp. These findings provided evidence that the distribution of PRV was depended on injected-routes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By molecular dynamics simulations coupled with the stochastic polymerization model, we show a certain dependence of the polymer chain polydispersity on the heterogeneity of the initiator sites distribution during surface-initiated polymerization. The heterogeneity of the initiators will lead to change of the mass distribution and the uncontrollability of polydispersity index (PDI) as compared to the homogeneous counterpart. We find a linear master curve of the polymer chain PDI on the interplay of heterogeneity parameter and initiator density, which actually reveals a quantitative dependence of polymer PDI on the free space between neighboring chains. This study helps to better understand and predict the chain polydispersity in the grafted materials via the surface-initiated polymerization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Au nanocube-CdS core-shell nanocomposites are prepared by using a one-pot method in aqueous phase with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide as the surfactant. The extinction properties and photocatalytic activity of Au-CdS nanocomposites are investigated. Compared with the pure Au nanocubes, the Au-CdS nanocomposites exhibit enhanced extinction intensity. Compared with CdS nanoparticles, the Au-CdS nanocomposites exhibit improved photocatalytic activity. Furthermore, the photocatalytic efficiency is even better with the increase in the core size of the Au-CdS nanocomposites. Typically, the photocatalytic efficiency of the Au-CdS with 62 nm sized Au nanocubes is about two times higher than that of the pure CdS. It is believed that the Au-CdS nanocomposites may find potential applications in environmental fields, and this synthesis method can be extended to prepare a wide variety of functional composites with Au cores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary malignant tumors of the maxillary sinuses are rare. The present study reports the case of a maxillary sinus adenocarcinoma that was misdiagnosed as a frog sparganum infection, and discusses the differential diagnosis between the two diseases. The patient was ultimately diagnosed with a carcinoma of the left maxillary sinus that presented as a progressive mass in the left eye and the maxillary sinus. Eosinophilic infiltration was observed in the subcutaneous tissue, and the patient had experienced previous exposure to undercooked frog. Although an anti-sparganum ELISA was performed and the results were negative, a sparganosis infection was initially diagnosed. However, following the application of anti-sparganosis treatment, no improvements were observed. Histological examination of an orbital mass resection revealed an adenocarcinoma with bone metastases. To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first to report a maxillary sinus carcinoma misdiagnosed as sparganosis. Therefore, the findings of the current study should be considered in the differential diagnosis between a carcinoma of the maxillary sinus and sparganosis. Avoidance of misdiagnosis at an early stage is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment of sinonasal malignancies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, polyphenols were extracted from different parts (seed husks, seeds, young and old leaves) of Toona sinensis collected from Taihe District, Anhui province, China, through ultrasound-assisted extraction. During in vitro experiments, seed husks polyphenol extracts exhibited inhibitory effects against α-amylase and α-glucosidase up to 89% and 86.7%, respectively, and these values were slightly lower than the inhibitory rates of acarbose (91% and 90.5% on each enzyme) at the same concentrations. During in vivo experiments, treatment with high-dose seed husks polyphenol extracts (120 mg/kg body weight) significantly reduced the blood glucose levels, increased the glucose tolerance and insulin tolerance of diabetic mice (P < 0.05); In addition, the contents of triglyceride, total cholesterol, non-esterified fatty acid, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and low density lipoprotein cholesterol in serum could be reduced, and the influence on total cholesterol was significantly different (P < 0.01). Moreover, the activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione could be Obviously improved, the content of malonaldehyde could be reduced in serum, among those the effect on glutathione enzyme was extremely significant (P < 0.01). The results showed that the seed husks polyphenol extracts from T. sinensis had obvious hypoglycemic effect, and the mechanism of hypoglycemic might be related to the improvement of insulin sensitivity by repairing damaged islet cells. Meanwhile, antioxidant enzyme activity was improved, oxidative stress injury was reduced, and lipid metabolism was enhanced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Glutathione peroxidase (GPX) 4 and selenoprotein P (SELENOP) are abundant, and several variants are expressed in the testis.Objective: We determined the effects of dietary selenium deficiency or excess on sperm quality and expressions of GPX4 and SELENOP variants in rat testis and liver.Methods: After weaning, male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed a Se-deficient basal diet (BD) for 5 wk until they were 9 wk old [mean ± SEM body weight (BW) = 256 ± 5 g]. They were then fed the BD diet alone (deficient) or with 0.25 (adequate), 3 (excess), or 5 (excess) mg Se/kg for 4 wk. Testis, liver, blood, and semen were collected to assay for selenoprotein mRNA and protein abundances, selenium concentration, GPX activity, 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine concentration, and sperm quality.Results: Dietary selenium supplementations elevated (P < 0.05) tissue selenium concentrations and GPX activities. Compared with those fed BD + 0.25 mg Se/kg, rats fed BD showed lower (P < 0.05) BW gain (86%) and sperm density (57%) but higher (P < 0.05) plasma 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine concentrations (189%), and nonprogressive sperm motility (4.4-fold). Likewise, rats fed BD + 5 mg Se/kg had (P = 0.06) lower BW gain and higher (1.9-fold) sperm deformity rates than those in the selenium-adequate group. Compared with the selenium-adequate group, dietary selenium deficiency (BD) or excess (BD + 3 or 5 mg Se/kg) resulted in 45-77% lower (P < 0.05) nuclear Gpx4 (nGpx4) mRNA abundance in the testis. Rats fed BD had lower (P < 0.05) mRNA levels of 2 Selenop variants in both testis and liver than those in the other groups. Testicular SELENOP was 155-170% higher (P < 0.05) in rats fed BD + 5 mg Se/kg and hepatic c/mGPX4 was 13-15% lower (P < 0.05) in rats fed BD than in the other groups.Conclusions: The mRNA abundance of rat testicular nGPX4 responded to dietary selenium concentrations in similar ways to sperm parameters and may be used as a sensitive marker to assess appropriate Se status for male function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amomum tsaoko is a flexistylous ginger. Flexistyly is a unique floral mechanism promoting outcrossing, which is known only in some species of Zingiberaceae till date. This is a pioneer report on flexistyly in A. tsaoko from the aspect of fructification percentage to clarify its influence on reproduction. We observed in 2007 and 2008 that the fructification percentage of the anaflexistyled and the cataflexistyled inflorescence were 14.89 ± 10.35% and 11.31 ± 7.91% respectively, with significant difference (d.f. = 141.920, t = 2.518, P = 0.013 < 0.05). The greatly significant difference between 2007 and 2008 were present in both the flower number (d.f. = 93, t = -2.819, P = 0.006 < 0.01) and the fructification percentage (d.f. = 93, t = -2.894, P = 0.005 < 0.01) of the cataflexistylous inflorescence. Although the two morphs were similar in morphological characteristics, there was some gender differentiation between them, showing a possibility that the anaflexistylous morph might function more as females and the cataflexistylous morph more as males. Reproduction of the cataflexistylous morph was significantly sensitive to change of environmental factors, in contrast to the anaflexistylous morph, thus the yield varied between the abundant year (2008) and the off year (2007). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Frequency relapses are common in Philadelphia chromosome-positive (Ph-positive) acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) following tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). CDKN2A/B is believed to contribute to this chemotherapy resistance. Methods: To further investigate the association between CDKN2 status and TKI resistance, the prevalence of CDKN2 deletions and its correlation with a variety of clinical features was assessed in 135 Ph-positive ALL patients using interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (I-FISH). Results: Results showed that no difference occurred between patients with CDKN2 deletion (44/135) and wild-type patients in sex, age, and complete remission (CR) rate following induction chemotherapy combined with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). However, CDKN2 deletion carriers demonstrated higher white blood cell (WBC) count, enhanced rates of hepatosplenomegaly (P = 0.006), and upregulation of CD20 expression (P = 0.001). Moreover, deletions of CDKN2 resulted in lower rates of complete molecular response (undetectable BCR/ABL), increased cumulative incidence of relapse, short overall survival (OS), and disease-free survival (DFS) time (P < 0.05) even though these patients received chemotherapy plus TKIs followed by allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (Allo-HSCT). In the case of 44 patients who presented with CDKN2 deletion, 18 patients were treated with dasatinib treatment, and another 26 patients were treated with imatinib therapy, and our study found that there were no differences associated with OS (P = 0.508) and DFS (P = 0.555) between the two groups. Conclusions: CDKN2 deletion is frequently acquired during Ph-positive ALL progression and serves as a poor prognostic marker of long-term outcome in Ph-positive ALL patients with CDKN2 deletion even after the second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to characterize and quantify the numbers and expression levels of cells markers associated with dendritic cell (DC) maturation in small airways in current smokers and non-smokers with or without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Lung tissues from the following 32 patients were obtained during resection for lung cancer: Eight smokers with COPD, eight non-smokers with COPD, eight current smokers without COPD and eight non-smokers without COPD, serving as a control. The tissue sections were immunostained for cluster of differentiation (CD)83+ and CD1a+ to delineate mature and immature DCs, and chemokine receptor type 7 (CCR7+) to detect DC migratory ability. Myeloid DCs were collected from the lung tissues, and subsequently the CD83+ and CCR7+ expression levels in the lung myeloid DCs were detected using flow cytometry. The expression levels of CD83+, CD1a+ and CCR7+ mRNA in total lung RNA were evaluated by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Evident chronic bronchitis and emphysema pathological changes were observed in the lung tissues of patients with COPD. The results revealed that the numbers of CD83+ and CCR7+ DCs were reduced but the numbers of CD1a+ DCs were significantly increased in the COPD group as compared with the control group (P<0.05, respectively). Using RT-qPCR, the expression levels of CCR7+ and CD83+ mRNA were found to be reduced in the smokers with COPD as compared with the non-smokers without COPD group (P<0.05, respectively). Excessive local adaptive immune responses are key elements in the pathogenesis of COPD. Cigarette smoke may stimulate immune responses by impairing the homing of airway DCs to the lymph nodes and reduce the migratory potential of DCs. The present study revealed that COPD is associated with reduced numbers of mature CD83+ DCs and lower CCR7+ expression levels in small airways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 14-year-old female Mongrel dog presented with multiple, cherry-sized, wellcircumscribed papillary masses on the right upper hard palate and gingival area. Histologically, the masses contained biphasic components composed of hyperplastic squamous epithelium forming papillary fronds, and underlying tortuous dilated ducts and cysts. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated that both squamous and ducts epithelium were pan-Cytokeratin (pCK) positive, but they were negative of Alpha smooth muscle (α-SMA), Vimentin and Protein 53 (P53). Duct epithelial cells were strong positive of Cytokeratin 8 & 18 (CK8&18), Ki-67, and weakly positive of S-100, whereas squamous component were strong positive of Cytokeratin 5&6 (CK5&6). Sialadenoma papilliferum (SP) was diagnosed based on clinical sign, gross and histopathological findings, and biochemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate molecular epidemiology of Chlamydia trachomatis infection among patients recruited from different clinic settings in Shenzhen, China. Methods A total of 2534 patients from the sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinics, obstetrics and gynaecology (OBGYN) clinics and genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics in 34 hospitals participated in the study. The C trachomatis infection was determined using COBAS Amplicor system. DNA extracted in C trachomatis-positive samples was amplified using a nested PCR based on ompA gene and then genotyped using a microsphere suspension array. Results The overall prevalence of genital C trachomatis infection was 17.7%. The prevalence in patients at STD or GUM clinics was significantly higher than that in patients at OBGYN clinics. Being male (adjusted OR (AOR) 2.5, 95% CI 1.8 to 3.4), having no consistent use of a condom with casual partners in the past 3 months (AOR 1.7, 95% CI 1.1 to 2.8) and having any STD symptoms (AOR 3.3, 95% CI 2.0 to 5.4) were independently associated with C trachomatis infection. Eight genotypes were identified. The most prevalent genotypes were F (22.3%), E (22.0%) and D/Da (12.7%). Other genotypes were G/Ga (8.0%), J (7.3%), K (2.7%), H (2.7%) and I/Ia (0.4%). Eighty-two samples (18.3%) were infected with multiple genotypes. Genotype D/Da among patients from GUM clinics was more common than those from STD or OBGYN clinics. Infections with genotypes G and F were statistically associated with abnormal vaginal discharge (p=0.001) and being married (p=0.014), respectively. Infection with multiple genotypes was more common among patients with a higher income (p=0.011). Conclusion A substantial prevalence of genital C trachomatis infection in Shenzhen suggests the importance of detection and treatment of the infection in high-risk groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

llogeneic hematopoetic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) remains the only curative therapy for chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). In this study, the long-term outcomes of HLA-matched sibling donor (MSD) with mismatched related donor (MRD) and unrelated donor (URD) transplantation for CML in the first chronic phase (CML-CP1) using different graft vs. host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis regimens according to donor source and the degree of HLA matching were compared. The data of 91 patients with CML-CP1 were analyzed with respect to GVHD, overall survival (OS), and transplant-related mortality (TRM). The incidence of grade II-IV acute GVHD was 25.5% in the MSD and 40.5% in the MRD/URD group ( P = 0.133). The 1-year cumulative incidence of chronic GVHD was not different between the MSD and the MRD/URD groups, while extensive chronic GVHD was different between the two groups (31.9% vs. 10.8%, P = 0.023). The 5-year cumulative relapse rate was not different between the MSD and the MRD/URD groups, while TRM was different between the two groups (6.6% vs. 26.3%, P = 0.010). The 5-year cumulative OS was 90.9%, 71.5%, and 85.4% in the MSD, the MRD/URD, and the HLA allele-matched URD transplantation, respectively (MSD vs. MRD/URD, P = 0.013; MSD vs. HLA allele-matched URD, P = 0.437). In conclusion, survival in HLA allele-matched URD is equivalent to MSD, but in MRD and mismatched URD is inferior to MSD in patients with CML-CP1 undergoing allo-HSCT using different GVHD prophylaxis regimens according to donor source and degree of HLA matching. Patients undergoing MRD/URD transplantation have an equal quality of life as patients undergoing MSD transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To assess whether the relationship between abnormal fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels and patient outcomes holds for both older men and older women with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). PATIENTS AND METHODS: From April 1, 2004, to October 31, 2006, a total of 2016 consecutive older patients (age ≥65 years) presenting with AMI were screened. Of these patients, 1854 were consecutively enrolled in the study. Patients were categorized into 4 groups: the hypoglycemic group (FPG, ≤90.0 mg/dL [to convert to mmol/L, multiply by 0.0555]; n=443, 23.9%), the euglycemic group (FPG, 90.1-126.0 mg/dL; n=812, 43.8%), the mildly hyperglycemic group (FPG, 126.1-162.0 mg/dL; n=308, 16.6%), and the severely hyperglycemic group (FPG, ≥162.1 mg/dL; n=291, 15.7%). The primary outcomes were rates of in-hospital and 3-year mortality. RESULTS: Female patients were older and had a higher incidence of diabetes mellitus but lower rates of smoking and use of invasive therapy. Men tended to have a higher frequency of hypoglycemia, whereas women tended to have a higher frequency of hyperglycemia. No significant difference was found in in-hospital (10.9% vs 9.1%; P=.36) or 3-year (24.5% vs 24.5%; P=.99) mortality between male and female patients, and FPG-associated mortality did not vary significantly by sex. CONCLUSION: An increased FPG level was associated with a relatively higher risk of in-hospital mortality in men but not in women. Nonetheless, increased and decreased FPG levels at admission could predict higher mortality rates regardless of sex. There was a striking U-shaped relationship between FPG levels and in-hospital and 3.year mortality. The effect of abnormal FPG level on out- comes among older patients with AMI did not vary significantly by sex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xu J D, Furuya T, Cao X X, Liu X L, Li Q Q, Wang W J, Xu J W, Xu Z D, Sasaki K & Liu X P (2010) Histopathology 814-824 BCL2L10 protein is an apoptosis-related member of the Bcl-2 protein family. The clinical significance of its expression in gastric carcinoma is poorly understood. The aim was to investigate BCL2L10 expression and its clinical and prognostic significance in gastric carcinoma patients. Immunohistochemistry, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunoblotting all revealed extensive loss of BCL2L10 expression in gastric cancer cells. The scaled BCL2L10 expression data was categorized into three groups (groups 0-2) to facilitate statistical analysis. A significant correlation was observed between the lower BCL2L10 expression group and shorter disease-free survival ( P = 1.956 × 10). Multivariate regression analysis showed that loss of BCL2L10 protein expression [ P = 4.883 × 10, hazard ratio (HR) = 0.252] is an independent prognostic predictor of gastric carcinoma. The receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve showed that the area for BCL2L10 protein was 0.817 ( P = 8.331 × 10), indicating that loss of BCL2L10 protein expression is an excellent prognostic predictor of gastric carcinoma. Loss of BCL2L10 protein expression predicts poor clinical outcome in gastric carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study that evaluates the efficacy of syphilis screening in the prevention of mother-child transmission. It states that 159,017 gravidas in China where screened for syphilis using serologic methods in which 827 or 0.52% were positive of syphilis and were treated with three injections of benzathine penicillin. The 200 ended in miscarriage while only 4 babies were positive of congenital syphilis. It concludes that screening with intervention is effective in China.

Background: Resistance developed by leukemic cells, unsatisfactory efficacy on patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) at accelerated and blastic phases, and potential cardiotoxity, have been limitations for imatinib mesylate (IM) in treating CML. Whether low dose IM in combination with agents of distinct but related mechanisms could be one of the strategies to overcome these concerns warrants careful investigation. Methods and Findings: We tested the therapeutic efficacies as well as adverse effects of low dose IM in combination with proteasome inhibitor, Bortezomib (BOR) or proteasome inhibitor I (PSI), in two CML murine models, and investigated possible mechanisms of action on CML cells. Our results demonstrated that low dose IM in combination with BOR exerted satisfactory efficacy in prolongation of life span and inhibition of tumor growth in mice, and did not cause cardiotoxicity or body weight loss. Consistently, BOR and PSI enhanced IM-induced inhibition of long-term clonogenic activity and shortterm cell growth of CML stem/progenitor cells, and potentiated IM-caused inhibition of proliferation and induction of apoptosis of BCR-ABL+ cells. IM/BOR and IM/PSI inhibited Bcl-2, increased cytoplasmic cytochrome C, and activated caspases. While exerting suppressive effects on BCR-ABL, E2F1, and β-catenin, IM/BOR and IM/PSI inhibited proteasomal degradation of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), leading to a re-activation of this important negative regulator of BCR-ABL. In addition, both combination therapties inhibited Bruton's tyrosine kinase via suppression of NFκB. Conclusion: These data suggest that combined use of tyrosine kinase inhibitor and proteasome inhibitor might be helpful for optimizing CML treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carboxylesterase-based metabolic resistance to organophosphates (OPs) in insects has been shown to originate either from mutations in esterase-encoding sequences or from amplification of esterase genes. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that mosquitoes can acquire OP resistance by functional changes in carboxylesterases. Mutations were introduced into the esterase B1 of mosquito Culex pipiens by site-directed mutagenesis at positions 110 and 224. Three single mutants (G110D, W224L, and W224S) and two double mutants (G110D/W224L and G110D/ W224S) were expressed and purified. All five mutants lost native carboxylesterase activity. Mutation W224L converted esterase B1 to an OP hydrolase and increased its malathion carboxylesterase activity. No obvious OP hydrolysis was observed by G110D or W224S. Our data strongly support our hypothesis and suggest that mutation W224L might occur in natural populations of mosquitoes. Sequence comparison shows that the site 224 is especially highly conserved among various insect carboxylesterases. This leads to another hypothesis: that the position 224 plays a key role in insect carboxylesterases' switching from their native physiological functions to other functional niches under selection pressure exerted by insecticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Consistent definitions of congenital syphilis are critical for determining true incidences and setting up targets of elimination. This study aimed to assess the evaluation and management of infants at high risk of congenital syphilis with an antenatal syphilis-screening programme in the Shenzhen SEZ and to develop feasible definitions for the detection of congenital syphilis in China. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted of all standardised records of pregnant women with positive syphilis between 2003 and 2007. Infants at high risk of congenital syphilis were evaluated by laboratory tests at birth and longitudinal follow-up. A screening test-positive congenital syphilis case was defined based on a positive 19S-IgM-FTA-ABS result at birth. Assuming that 19S-IgM-FTA-ABS was the gold standard, the sensitivity and specificity of the ascertainment methods were calculated. Results: During the study period, 1010 live infants were born to women with active syphilis during pregnancy. 19S-IgM-FTA-ABS detected 42 screening-positive congenital syphilis cases and another nine cases were identified by longitudinal follow-up only. Using 19S-IgM-FTA-ABS as the gold standard, 'fourfold rapid plasma reagin (RPR) titres' had the highest sensitivity and specificity compared with the other two follow-up methods. Discussion: 19S-IgM-FTA-ABS makes congenital syphilis case classification simpler and faster for newborns. In areas where 19S-IgM-FTA-ABS is not available, comparing newborn RPR titres with maternal titres can be an alternative method. Meanwhile, positive follow-up results act as treatment indicators for older infants. As congenital syphilis definitions vary over the country, the Shenzhen programme suggested a practical model for surveillance and treatment in areas with or without available 19S-IgM-FTA-ABS testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]