Pancreatitis-associated protein (PAP) was discovered in the pancreatic juice of rats with acute pancreatitis. PAP is a 16 kDa secretory protein structurally related to the C-type lectins although classical lectin-rela...Pancreatitis-associated protein (PAP) was discovered in the pancreatic juice of rats with acute pancreatitis. PAP is a 16 kDa secretory protein structurally related to the C-type lectins although classical lectin-related function has not been reported yet. Then, it was demonstrated that PAP expression may be activated in some tissues in a constitutive or injury- and inflammation-induced manner. More recently, it has been found that PAP acts as an anti-inflammatory factor in vitro and in vivo. PAP expression can be induced by several pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and by itself through a JAK/STAT3-dependent pathway. PAP is able to activate the expression of the anti-inflammatory factor SOCS3 through the JAK/STAT3-dependent pathway. The JAK/STAT3/SOCS3 pathway seems to be a common point between PAP and several cytokines. Therefore, it is reasonable to propose that PAP is a new anti- inflammatory cytokine.展开更多
Alcohol related costs to health and society are high. One of the most serious complications of alcohol misuse to the individual is the development of alcoholic hepatitis (AH), a clinical syndrome of jaundice and progr...Alcohol related costs to health and society are high. One of the most serious complications of alcohol misuse to the individual is the development of alcoholic hepatitis (AH), a clinical syndrome of jaundice and progressive inflammatory liver injury in patients with a history of recent heavy alcohol use. It has a poor outcome and few existing successful therapies. The use of glucocorticoids in patients with severe AH is still controversial and there remains a group of patients with glucocorticoid-resistant disease. However, as our understanding of the pathogenesis of the condition improves there are opportunities to develop new targeted therapies with specific actions to control liver inflammation without having a detrimental effect on the immune system as a whole. In this article we review the molecular mechanisms of AH concentrating on the activation of the innate and adaptive immune response. We consider existing treatments including glucocorticoids, anti-tumor necrosis factor therapy and pentoxifylline and their limitations. Using our knowledge of the disease pathogenesis we discuss possible novel therapeutic approaches. New targets include pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-17, chemokines and their receptors (for example IL-8, CXCL9 and CXCR3) and augmentation of anti-inflam- matory molecules such as IL-10 and IL-22. And there is also future potential to consider combination therapy to selectively modulate the immune response and gain control of disease.展开更多
The Quality factor is the parameter that can be used to describe the energy attenuation on seismic wave. In theory, we can obtain the relationship between the change of the coda wave quality factor with time and the s...The Quality factor is the parameter that can be used to describe the energy attenuation on seismic wave. In theory, we can obtain the relationship between the change of the coda wave quality factor with time and the strong earthquake preparation process on the basis of the quality factor of a coda wave in a same ray path. However, in reality the coda wave quality factor measured by different seismic coda waves corresponds to different seismic wave ray paths. The change of the quality factor with time is related to non-elastic characteristics of the medium and the volume of scattering ellipsoid constrained by scattered wave phase fronts, besides the change of regional stress field. This paper discusses the relationship between quality factor, epicenter distance and different lapse time, and then discusses the relationship between quality factor and frequency. Furthermore the determination method of the coda wave quality factor is put forward. The improved determination method of the quality factor, which removes the influence of different earthquakes or propagation depth of scattered waves, may increase measurement precision, thus information pertaining to abnormal changes in quality factor and the relationship between the quality factor and earthquake preparation process can be acquired.展开更多
Adamantiades-Behcet's disease (ABD) is a chronic,relapsing,systemic vasculitis of unknown etiology.It is more prevalent in populations along the ancient Silk Road from Eastern Asia to the Mediterranean Basin,and m...Adamantiades-Behcet's disease (ABD) is a chronic,relapsing,systemic vasculitis of unknown etiology.It is more prevalent in populations along the ancient Silk Road from Eastern Asia to the Mediterranean Basin,and most frequently affects young adults between the second and fourth decades of life.ABD-complicated gastroenteropathy is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality,with abdominal pain as the most common symptom.The ileocecal region is affected predominantly,with ulcerations that may lead to penetration and/or perforation,whereas other parts of the gastrointestinal system including the esophagus and stomach can also be affected.Endoscopy is useful to locate the site and extent of the lesions,and tissue biopsy is often warranted to examine the histopathology that is often suggestive of underlying vasculitis of small veins/venules or,alternatively in some cases,nonspecific inflammation.Bowel wall thickening is the most common finding on computed tomography scan.Treatment is largely empirical since well-controlled studies are difficult to conduct due to the heterogeneity of the disease,and the unpredictable course with exacerbation and remission.Corticosteroids with or without other immunosuppressive drugs,such as cyclophosphamide,azathioprine,sulfasalazine,tumor necrosis factor α antagonist or thalidomide should be applied before surgery,except in emergency.展开更多
This study was carried out in the greenhouse of the National Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt, in order to investigate the effect of foliar application of boron (0, 300 and 600 ppm B) as boric acid (H3BO3, 17% B...This study was carried out in the greenhouse of the National Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt, in order to investigate the effect of foliar application of boron (0, 300 and 600 ppm B) as boric acid (H3BO3, 17% B) on the yield and yield components and also the seed quality of two sunflower cultivars (Sakha-53 and Giza-102). B application at a rate of 600 ppm produced the highest values of seed yield/plant (g), head diameter (cm), number of seeds/head, weight of 1,000 seed (g), percentage of oil (%) and oil yield/plant (g) of both cultivars. Seed yield/plant increased by 26.85% and 34.81% with increasing B concentration from 300 ppm and 600 ppm as compared to control plants, respectively. The results indicated that application of 300 ppm B resulted in an increase of palmitic, stearic and oleic acids as compared to the treatment with 600 ppm B and control plants. However, the linoleic acid increased gradually with increasing B up to 600 ppm. Such increases were estimated by 8.72% and 7.19% over the control plants or the treatment sprayed with 300 ppm B, respectively. The highest oleic and linoleic acids percentages (52.71% and 36.05%, respectively) were obtained from Sakha-53 cultivar with 300 ppm B foliar application, while the lowest lenolenic acid percentage (2.01%) was obtained at 600 ppm B. The highest content of gluatmine, isoleucine and arginine (9.61, 3.97 and 3.97 mg/100 g dry weight) was obtained from Sakha-53 cultivar, followed by Giza-102 at a rate of 600 ppm foliar application of B. It can be concluded that B plays a vital role for increasing the productivity and quality of sunflower plants, especially when grown under B deficient soil.展开更多
AIM:To study the production and secretion of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) by dendritic cells and the influence of commensal bacteria.METHODS:JAWSⅡ cells (ATCC CRL-11904),a mouse dendritic cell line,were seede...AIM:To study the production and secretion of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) by dendritic cells and the influence of commensal bacteria.METHODS:JAWSⅡ cells (ATCC CRL-11904),a mouse dendritic cell line,were seeded into 24-well culture plates and grown for 3 d.Commensal bacterial strains of Clostridium clostrodiiforme (JCM1291),Bacteroides vulgatus (B.vulgatus) (JCM5856),Escherichia coli (JCM1649),or Fusobacterium varium (F.varium) (ATCC8501) were added to the cells except for the control well,and incubated for 2 h.After incubation,we performed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the cultured medium and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction for the dendritic cells,and compared these values with controls.RESULTS:The level of CRF secretion by control dendritic cells was 40.4±6.2 pg/mL.The CRF levels for cells incubated with F.varium and B.vulgatus were significantly higher than that of the control (P<0.0001).CRF mRNA was present in the control sample without bacteria,and CRF mRNA levels in all samples treated with bacteria were above that of the control sample.F.varium caused the greatest increase in CRF mRNA expression.CONCLUSION:Our results suggest that dendritic cells produce CRF,a process augmented by commensal bacteria.展开更多
Objective To study mRNA expression of the mediating-related genes in osteoblasts after expo-sure to Titanium-alloy panicles and cytochalasin-D. Methods Human osteoblasts were isolated from trabecular fragments and exp...Objective To study mRNA expression of the mediating-related genes in osteoblasts after expo-sure to Titanium-alloy panicles and cytochalasin-D. Methods Human osteoblasts were isolated from trabecular fragments and exposed to 0.01% (v/v) titanium-alloy particles for 8h. Pretreatment of osteoblasts with cytochalasin-D(5μmol/L) to prevent phagocytosis prior to the addition of Titanium-alloy particles, mRNA expression of RANKL, OPG, and IL-6 was semi-quantified by RT-PCR. Results Expressions of RANKL, OPG, and IL-6 mRNA at respective levels were found in osteoblasts under normal condition, which did not show significant changes in the samples treated with cytochalasin-D but without particles. Exposure of osteoblasts to particles after being treated with or without cytochalasin-D altered mRNA expression of these genes, however, an increase in the ratio of RANKL/OPG mRNA was only found in samples without cytochalasin-D treatment. Conclusion Changes of expression of RANKL, OPG, and IL-6 mRNA in osteoblasts after exposure to titanium-alloy particles were independent of phagocytosis, whereas phagocytosis has a direct effect on their ability to stimulate osteoclast differentiation and function.展开更多
The aim of this study was to determine the utilization of SRMD (stress related mucosal disease) prophylaxis in the ICU (intensive care unit) of a large teaching institution based on duration and defined adverse ef...The aim of this study was to determine the utilization of SRMD (stress related mucosal disease) prophylaxis in the ICU (intensive care unit) of a large teaching institution based on duration and defined adverse effects. Patients were reviewed for appropriateness of SRMD prophylactic therapy based on the presence of two independent risk factors (coagulopathy and mechanical ventilation greater than 48 hours) versus presence of any one risk factor from a list developed by the study investigator. Data was collected into spreadsheets and outcomes were analyzed using descriptive statistics. When evaluating patients based on the presence of any risk factor, 84 percent of patients had at least one risk factor present, while 16 percent did not have any. In patients who received famotidine, there was one occtLrrence of Clostridium difficile and 6 cases of electrolyte abnormalities. In patients who received a PPI, there was one documented case of HAP, two cases of ventilator-associated pneumonia, three cases of Clostridium difficile, and 14 patients who developed electrolyte abnormalities. Data does not show an association between acid suppression therapy and incidence of nosocomial infections. The number of patients whose therapy exceeded the appropriate stop-date compared with the number of patients in which SRMD prophylaxis was discontinued when risk factors diminished was greater when evaluating patients based upon the two independent risk factors.展开更多
To assess the relationship between serum levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF1)/IGF-binding protein-3 (IGFBP3) and the risk of esophageal carcinoma.METHODSWe assessed the relationship between the serum levels o...To assess the relationship between serum levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF1)/IGF-binding protein-3 (IGFBP3) and the risk of esophageal carcinoma.METHODSWe assessed the relationship between the serum levels of these molecules and the risk of esophageal cancer in a prospective, nested case-control study of participants from the Japan Collaborative Cohort Study. A baseline survey was conducted from 1988 to 1990. Of the 110585 enrolled participants, 35% donated blood samples. Those who had been diagnosed with esophageal cancer were considered cases for nested case-control studies. A conditional logistic model was used to estimate odds ratios for the incidence of esophageal cancer associated with serum IGF1 and IGFBP3 levels.RESULTSThirty-one cases and 86 controls were eligible for the present assessment. The molar ratio of IGF1/IGFBP3, which represents the free and active form of IGF1, was not correlated with the risk of esophageal carcinoma. A higher molar difference between IGFBP3 and IGF1, which estimates the free form of IGFBP3, was associated with a decreased risk of esophageal carcinoma (P = 0.0146), and people in the highest tertile had the lowest risk (OR = 0.107, 95%CI: 0.017-0.669). After adjustment for body mass index, tobacco use, and alcohol intake, the molar difference of IGFBP3-IGF1 was inversely correlated with the risk of esophageal carcinoma (P = 0.0150).CONCLUSIONThe free form of IGFBP3, which is estimated by this molar difference, may be inversely associated with esophageal cancer incidence.展开更多
EAE (experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis) is an established, inducible animal model employed in the study of MS (multiple sclerosis) characterized by inflammation, BBB (blood brain barrier) malfunction, de...EAE (experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis) is an established, inducible animal model employed in the study of MS (multiple sclerosis) characterized by inflammation, BBB (blood brain barrier) malfunction, demyelination and neuronal disruption. CRF (corticotropin releasing factor) is a neuropeptide critically associated with immune function, BBB permeability, and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Potential CRF targets in the brain include astrocytes, as well as endothelial cells of cerebral microvessels, since they have been reported to express CRFR (CRF receptors). Further, both of these cell types function critically in regulating BBB permeability. CRF-BP (CRF binding protein) is also expressed in both neurons and glial cells. Changes in the cortical CRF system could be a contributing factor to the BBB disruption associated with MS/EAE and has been suggested to play a protective role against cytokine-induced inflammation. The current study assessed alterations associated with the C57BL/6 mouse model of EAE in the cortical CRF system and correlated these events with changes to the microvascular unit. Immunohistochemical confocal microscopy was used to analyze the distribution of CRF, CRF-BP, and CRFR in the mouse cerebral cortex. The authors observed a reduction in detectable CRF immunofluorescence in the EAE motor cortex, an increase in CRFBP immunoreactivity in EAE astrocytes and a concurrent reduction in astrocytic CRFR immunofluorescence. Staining techniques were used to visualize astrocytes/microvessels to document alterations in BBB integrity. Changes in the CRF system were associated with a modification of the blood brain barrier as manifested by a poorly defined astrocytic barrier in EAE microvessels. Evidence suggests that manipulation of CRF signaling pathways offers an intriguing target for interventional therapies designed to modify BBB permeability that may be beneficial for treating disease states such as MS.展开更多
The abundance of beneficial insects in the paddy field can be influenced by the abundance of insect pests, water parameters, climatic factors and plant traits. This study was conducted to determine effects of water pa...The abundance of beneficial insects in the paddy field can be influenced by the abundance of insect pests, water parameters, climatic factors and plant traits. This study was conducted to determine effects of water parameters, climatic factors and plant traits on abundant insects. Findings of the studies showed that there were significant correlations between all beneficial insects in paddy field and water parameters tested, namely, water temperature, salinity, turbidity, pH, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, ammonia and total suspended solids. Moreover, the selected water parameters of water temperature, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand and chemical oxygen demand were good predictors for abundant beneficial insects in paddy field at Sungai Burong, specifically for insects of sub-orders Anisoptera and Zygoptera, and insects from families Gerridae and Coccinellidae. The plant height, insect pest, temperature, rainfall and humidity were found to be good predictors on the abundance of beneficial insects; nevertheless, the R2 value of multiple regression models was relatively low due to significant relationship between water parameters and insects. Consideration factors of water parameters, climatic factors and plant traits were strongly correlated with those parameters and abundance of insects in the paddy field at Sungai Burong, Tanjung Karang, Selangor.展开更多
Objective To explore the effect of electroacupuncture at conception vessel and governor vessel on correlative signals of inflammatory response stressinjury-repair in cerebral ischemia reperfusion rats. Methods A total...Objective To explore the effect of electroacupuncture at conception vessel and governor vessel on correlative signals of inflammatory response stressinjury-repair in cerebral ischemia reperfusion rats. Methods A total of 216 rats were included in the experiment, of which 192 rats were randomly divided into four groups, including sham operation group(group A), model group(group B), governor vessel group(group C), and conception vessel and governor vessel group(group D), 48 rats in each group. The rats in each group were further divided into six sub-groups, including 12 h group, 24 h group, 48 h group, 72 h group, 96 h group and 144 h group. MCAO operation course was simulated in group A, and the common carotid artery, internal carotid artery and external carotid artery on the right side were exposed, without insertion of suture or treatment. After completion of modeling in group B, treatment was not conducted. After completion of modeling in group C, "Shuǐgōu(水沟 GV 26)", "Bǎihuì(百会 GV 20)" and "Dàzhuī(大椎 GV 14)" of governor vessel were selected, and electroacupuncture device was connected with "GV 14" and "GV 20". After completion of modeling in group D, "GV 26", "GV 20" and "GV 14" of governor vessel, and "Qìhǎi(气海 CV 6)", "Guānyuán(关元 CV 4)" and "Chéngjiāng(承浆 CV 24)" of conception vessel were selected; electroacupuncture device was connected with "GV 14" and "GV 20", "CV 4" and "CV 6". Neurological severity score was conducted.Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was applied to determine the concentration of peripheral serum adrenocorticotropic hormone(ACTH) of rats, and immunohistochemical method was adopted to detect the expression levels of tumor necrosis factor α(TNF-α) and transforming growth factor β1(TGF-β1) in brain tissue of rats. The other 24 rats were also randomly divided into four groups mentioned above, 6 rats in each group, to detect cerebral ischemie volume. Results Compared with group B, the ischemia volume in brain tissue at 144 h after cerebral ischemia reperfusion decreased significantly in group C and group D(P〈0.05), and the ischemia volume in group D was less than that in group C(P〈0.05). The neurological impairment scores of group C and group D at all time points were lower than those of group B, and the differences were statistically significant(all P〈0.05). The scores of group D at all time points were lower than those of group C, and the differences since 24 h were statistically significant(all P〈0.05). Compared with group B, the excessive expression of ACTH was suppressed dynamically and generally in group C and group D(P〈0.05); the expression level of TNF-α was down-regulated and TGF-β1 was up-regulated as well in group C and group D(P〈0.05). The effect in group D was superior to that in group C. Conclusion Electroacupuncture at conception vessel and governor vessel can protect brain through the intervention of the expression of correlative signals of inflammatory response stress-injury-repair of cerebral ischemia reperfusion.展开更多
Objective To identify the changes in serum insulin like growth factor Ⅰ (IGF Ⅰ) and IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs) in children with nephrotic syndrome (NS) and the effect of glucocorticoid on serum IGF Ⅰ and IGF...Objective To identify the changes in serum insulin like growth factor Ⅰ (IGF Ⅰ) and IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs) in children with nephrotic syndrome (NS) and the effect of glucocorticoid on serum IGF Ⅰ and IGFBPs Methods We measured serum IGF Ⅰ and IGFBPs levels by radioimmune assay and immune radiomagnetic assay in 36 children with NS, consisting of an active stage group (ANS, n=12), a remission stage group (RE, n=12), an active stage group with glucocorticoid treatment (GNS, n=12), and a normal control group (NC, n=10) Results 1) Compared to NC, serum levels of IGF Ⅰ and IGFBP 3 were decreased ( P <0 01); serum levels of IGFBP 1 and IGFBP 2 were increased ( P <0 01) in the ANS group 2) Serum levels of IGF Ⅰ and IGFBP 3 were higher and IGFBP 1 and IGFBP 2 were lower in the RE Group than in theANS Group ( P <0 01) 3) Compared to the ANS group, serum levels of IGF Ⅰ and IGFBP 3 were increased ( P <0 01) and serum levels of IGFBP 1 and IGFBP 2 were decreased ( P <0 01) in the GNS group 4) A correlation was found between serum levels of IGFBP 3 and albumin in the active stage group ( r =0 76, P <0 01) There was also a correlation between serum levels of IGF Ⅰ and IGFBP 3 and an inverse correlation between the serum level of IGF Ⅰ and serum levels of IGFBP 1 and IGFBP 2 in the ANS group No other correlations were observed Conclusions The serum levels of IGF Ⅰ and IGFBPs are altered in children in the active stage of NS, but return to normal in the remission stage GC treatment may influence serum IGF Ⅰ and IGFBPs in children with NS Changes in IGF Ⅰ and IGFBPs levels may play a role in the growth retardation of NS children展开更多
Objective: To observe the effect of moxibustion on the protein and mRNA expressions of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 2 (CRFR1) in hypothalamus of trinitrobenzene...Objective: To observe the effect of moxibustion on the protein and mRNA expressions of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 2 (CRFR1) in hypothalamus of trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced experimental colitis rats, and to explore the central mechanisms of moxibustion in improving visceral pain and the pain-related emotions in experimental colitis rats. Methods: Thirty-six Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into a normal group (NG), a model group (MG), a herb-partitioned moxibustion group (HPMG) and a sham herb-partitioned moxibustion group (SHPMG). Except the NG, rats in the remaining three groups all received TNBS enema to establish experimental colitis models. The HPMG received herb-partitioned moxibustion (HPM) at bilateral Tianshu (ST 25) and Qihai (CV 6) for intervention; for the SHPMG, the herbal cakes and moxa cones were only placed on the acupoints but not ignited; rats in the MG and NG were only fixed in the same way as those in the HPMG but did not receive any treatment. At the end of the intervention, the abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR) score, the open field test (OFT) score and the elevated plus maze (EPM) score were observed to measure the changes in visceral pain and pain-related emotions of the rats. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to examine the expressions of CRF and CRFR1 proteins in hypothalamus; the fluorescence-based quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect the expressions of CRF and CRFR1 mRNAs in hypothalamus. Results: Compared with the NG, the AWR score increased significantly and the OFT and EPM scores dropped significantly in the MG (all P〈0.05), and the expressions of hypothalamic CRF and CRFR1 proteins and mRNAs increased significantly (all P〈0.01). Compared with the MG and SHPMG, the AWR score dropped significantly and the OFT and EPM scores increased significantly in the HPMG (all P〈0.01), and the expressions of hypothalamic CRF and CRFRI proteins and mRNAs decreased significantly (all P〈0.05). There were no significant differences between the MG and the SHPMG (all P〉0.05). Conclusion: HPM can down-regulate the abnormally increased expressions of CRF and CRFR1 proteins and mRNAs in hypothalamus of the TNBS-induced experimental colitis rats, which is plausibly one of its action mechanisms in mitigating visceral pain and the pain-related emotions in the experimental colitis rats.展开更多
文摘Pancreatitis-associated protein (PAP) was discovered in the pancreatic juice of rats with acute pancreatitis. PAP is a 16 kDa secretory protein structurally related to the C-type lectins although classical lectin-related function has not been reported yet. Then, it was demonstrated that PAP expression may be activated in some tissues in a constitutive or injury- and inflammation-induced manner. More recently, it has been found that PAP acts as an anti-inflammatory factor in vitro and in vivo. PAP expression can be induced by several pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and by itself through a JAK/STAT3-dependent pathway. PAP is able to activate the expression of the anti-inflammatory factor SOCS3 through the JAK/STAT3-dependent pathway. The JAK/STAT3/SOCS3 pathway seems to be a common point between PAP and several cytokines. Therefore, it is reasonable to propose that PAP is a new anti- inflammatory cytokine.
文摘Alcohol related costs to health and society are high. One of the most serious complications of alcohol misuse to the individual is the development of alcoholic hepatitis (AH), a clinical syndrome of jaundice and progressive inflammatory liver injury in patients with a history of recent heavy alcohol use. It has a poor outcome and few existing successful therapies. The use of glucocorticoids in patients with severe AH is still controversial and there remains a group of patients with glucocorticoid-resistant disease. However, as our understanding of the pathogenesis of the condition improves there are opportunities to develop new targeted therapies with specific actions to control liver inflammation without having a detrimental effect on the immune system as a whole. In this article we review the molecular mechanisms of AH concentrating on the activation of the innate and adaptive immune response. We consider existing treatments including glucocorticoids, anti-tumor necrosis factor therapy and pentoxifylline and their limitations. Using our knowledge of the disease pathogenesis we discuss possible novel therapeutic approaches. New targets include pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-17, chemokines and their receptors (for example IL-8, CXCL9 and CXCR3) and augmentation of anti-inflam- matory molecules such as IL-10 and IL-22. And there is also future potential to consider combination therapy to selectively modulate the immune response and gain control of disease.
基金sponsored by the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province (Y2007E09)Joint Earthquake Science Foundation (C08028)Special Application Research of Digital Seismic Wave Data ,Shangdong,China
文摘The Quality factor is the parameter that can be used to describe the energy attenuation on seismic wave. In theory, we can obtain the relationship between the change of the coda wave quality factor with time and the strong earthquake preparation process on the basis of the quality factor of a coda wave in a same ray path. However, in reality the coda wave quality factor measured by different seismic coda waves corresponds to different seismic wave ray paths. The change of the quality factor with time is related to non-elastic characteristics of the medium and the volume of scattering ellipsoid constrained by scattered wave phase fronts, besides the change of regional stress field. This paper discusses the relationship between quality factor, epicenter distance and different lapse time, and then discusses the relationship between quality factor and frequency. Furthermore the determination method of the coda wave quality factor is put forward. The improved determination method of the quality factor, which removes the influence of different earthquakes or propagation depth of scattered waves, may increase measurement precision, thus information pertaining to abnormal changes in quality factor and the relationship between the quality factor and earthquake preparation process can be acquired.
文摘Adamantiades-Behcet's disease (ABD) is a chronic,relapsing,systemic vasculitis of unknown etiology.It is more prevalent in populations along the ancient Silk Road from Eastern Asia to the Mediterranean Basin,and most frequently affects young adults between the second and fourth decades of life.ABD-complicated gastroenteropathy is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality,with abdominal pain as the most common symptom.The ileocecal region is affected predominantly,with ulcerations that may lead to penetration and/or perforation,whereas other parts of the gastrointestinal system including the esophagus and stomach can also be affected.Endoscopy is useful to locate the site and extent of the lesions,and tissue biopsy is often warranted to examine the histopathology that is often suggestive of underlying vasculitis of small veins/venules or,alternatively in some cases,nonspecific inflammation.Bowel wall thickening is the most common finding on computed tomography scan.Treatment is largely empirical since well-controlled studies are difficult to conduct due to the heterogeneity of the disease,and the unpredictable course with exacerbation and remission.Corticosteroids with or without other immunosuppressive drugs,such as cyclophosphamide,azathioprine,sulfasalazine,tumor necrosis factor α antagonist or thalidomide should be applied before surgery,except in emergency.
文摘This study was carried out in the greenhouse of the National Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt, in order to investigate the effect of foliar application of boron (0, 300 and 600 ppm B) as boric acid (H3BO3, 17% B) on the yield and yield components and also the seed quality of two sunflower cultivars (Sakha-53 and Giza-102). B application at a rate of 600 ppm produced the highest values of seed yield/plant (g), head diameter (cm), number of seeds/head, weight of 1,000 seed (g), percentage of oil (%) and oil yield/plant (g) of both cultivars. Seed yield/plant increased by 26.85% and 34.81% with increasing B concentration from 300 ppm and 600 ppm as compared to control plants, respectively. The results indicated that application of 300 ppm B resulted in an increase of palmitic, stearic and oleic acids as compared to the treatment with 600 ppm B and control plants. However, the linoleic acid increased gradually with increasing B up to 600 ppm. Such increases were estimated by 8.72% and 7.19% over the control plants or the treatment sprayed with 300 ppm B, respectively. The highest oleic and linoleic acids percentages (52.71% and 36.05%, respectively) were obtained from Sakha-53 cultivar with 300 ppm B foliar application, while the lowest lenolenic acid percentage (2.01%) was obtained at 600 ppm B. The highest content of gluatmine, isoleucine and arginine (9.61, 3.97 and 3.97 mg/100 g dry weight) was obtained from Sakha-53 cultivar, followed by Giza-102 at a rate of 600 ppm foliar application of B. It can be concluded that B plays a vital role for increasing the productivity and quality of sunflower plants, especially when grown under B deficient soil.
基金Supported by Grants in Aid for Scientific Research (C) from the Japanese Ministry of Education,Culture,Sports,Science and Technology,No. 17590679
文摘AIM:To study the production and secretion of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) by dendritic cells and the influence of commensal bacteria.METHODS:JAWSⅡ cells (ATCC CRL-11904),a mouse dendritic cell line,were seeded into 24-well culture plates and grown for 3 d.Commensal bacterial strains of Clostridium clostrodiiforme (JCM1291),Bacteroides vulgatus (B.vulgatus) (JCM5856),Escherichia coli (JCM1649),or Fusobacterium varium (F.varium) (ATCC8501) were added to the cells except for the control well,and incubated for 2 h.After incubation,we performed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the cultured medium and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction for the dendritic cells,and compared these values with controls.RESULTS:The level of CRF secretion by control dendritic cells was 40.4±6.2 pg/mL.The CRF levels for cells incubated with F.varium and B.vulgatus were significantly higher than that of the control (P<0.0001).CRF mRNA was present in the control sample without bacteria,and CRF mRNA levels in all samples treated with bacteria were above that of the control sample.F.varium caused the greatest increase in CRF mRNA expression.CONCLUSION:Our results suggest that dendritic cells produce CRF,a process augmented by commensal bacteria.
文摘Objective To study mRNA expression of the mediating-related genes in osteoblasts after expo-sure to Titanium-alloy panicles and cytochalasin-D. Methods Human osteoblasts were isolated from trabecular fragments and exposed to 0.01% (v/v) titanium-alloy particles for 8h. Pretreatment of osteoblasts with cytochalasin-D(5μmol/L) to prevent phagocytosis prior to the addition of Titanium-alloy particles, mRNA expression of RANKL, OPG, and IL-6 was semi-quantified by RT-PCR. Results Expressions of RANKL, OPG, and IL-6 mRNA at respective levels were found in osteoblasts under normal condition, which did not show significant changes in the samples treated with cytochalasin-D but without particles. Exposure of osteoblasts to particles after being treated with or without cytochalasin-D altered mRNA expression of these genes, however, an increase in the ratio of RANKL/OPG mRNA was only found in samples without cytochalasin-D treatment. Conclusion Changes of expression of RANKL, OPG, and IL-6 mRNA in osteoblasts after exposure to titanium-alloy particles were independent of phagocytosis, whereas phagocytosis has a direct effect on their ability to stimulate osteoclast differentiation and function.
文摘The aim of this study was to determine the utilization of SRMD (stress related mucosal disease) prophylaxis in the ICU (intensive care unit) of a large teaching institution based on duration and defined adverse effects. Patients were reviewed for appropriateness of SRMD prophylactic therapy based on the presence of two independent risk factors (coagulopathy and mechanical ventilation greater than 48 hours) versus presence of any one risk factor from a list developed by the study investigator. Data was collected into spreadsheets and outcomes were analyzed using descriptive statistics. When evaluating patients based on the presence of any risk factor, 84 percent of patients had at least one risk factor present, while 16 percent did not have any. In patients who received famotidine, there was one occtLrrence of Clostridium difficile and 6 cases of electrolyte abnormalities. In patients who received a PPI, there was one documented case of HAP, two cases of ventilator-associated pneumonia, three cases of Clostridium difficile, and 14 patients who developed electrolyte abnormalities. Data does not show an association between acid suppression therapy and incidence of nosocomial infections. The number of patients whose therapy exceeded the appropriate stop-date compared with the number of patients in which SRMD prophylaxis was discontinued when risk factors diminished was greater when evaluating patients based upon the two independent risk factors.
基金Supported by the Ministry of Education,Culture,Sports,Science,and Technology and from the Ministry of Health,Labour and Welfare,Japan
文摘To assess the relationship between serum levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF1)/IGF-binding protein-3 (IGFBP3) and the risk of esophageal carcinoma.METHODSWe assessed the relationship between the serum levels of these molecules and the risk of esophageal cancer in a prospective, nested case-control study of participants from the Japan Collaborative Cohort Study. A baseline survey was conducted from 1988 to 1990. Of the 110585 enrolled participants, 35% donated blood samples. Those who had been diagnosed with esophageal cancer were considered cases for nested case-control studies. A conditional logistic model was used to estimate odds ratios for the incidence of esophageal cancer associated with serum IGF1 and IGFBP3 levels.RESULTSThirty-one cases and 86 controls were eligible for the present assessment. The molar ratio of IGF1/IGFBP3, which represents the free and active form of IGF1, was not correlated with the risk of esophageal carcinoma. A higher molar difference between IGFBP3 and IGF1, which estimates the free form of IGFBP3, was associated with a decreased risk of esophageal carcinoma (P = 0.0146), and people in the highest tertile had the lowest risk (OR = 0.107, 95%CI: 0.017-0.669). After adjustment for body mass index, tobacco use, and alcohol intake, the molar difference of IGFBP3-IGF1 was inversely correlated with the risk of esophageal carcinoma (P = 0.0150).CONCLUSIONThe free form of IGFBP3, which is estimated by this molar difference, may be inversely associated with esophageal cancer incidence.
文摘EAE (experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis) is an established, inducible animal model employed in the study of MS (multiple sclerosis) characterized by inflammation, BBB (blood brain barrier) malfunction, demyelination and neuronal disruption. CRF (corticotropin releasing factor) is a neuropeptide critically associated with immune function, BBB permeability, and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Potential CRF targets in the brain include astrocytes, as well as endothelial cells of cerebral microvessels, since they have been reported to express CRFR (CRF receptors). Further, both of these cell types function critically in regulating BBB permeability. CRF-BP (CRF binding protein) is also expressed in both neurons and glial cells. Changes in the cortical CRF system could be a contributing factor to the BBB disruption associated with MS/EAE and has been suggested to play a protective role against cytokine-induced inflammation. The current study assessed alterations associated with the C57BL/6 mouse model of EAE in the cortical CRF system and correlated these events with changes to the microvascular unit. Immunohistochemical confocal microscopy was used to analyze the distribution of CRF, CRF-BP, and CRFR in the mouse cerebral cortex. The authors observed a reduction in detectable CRF immunofluorescence in the EAE motor cortex, an increase in CRFBP immunoreactivity in EAE astrocytes and a concurrent reduction in astrocytic CRFR immunofluorescence. Staining techniques were used to visualize astrocytes/microvessels to document alterations in BBB integrity. Changes in the CRF system were associated with a modification of the blood brain barrier as manifested by a poorly defined astrocytic barrier in EAE microvessels. Evidence suggests that manipulation of CRF signaling pathways offers an intriguing target for interventional therapies designed to modify BBB permeability that may be beneficial for treating disease states such as MS.
文摘The abundance of beneficial insects in the paddy field can be influenced by the abundance of insect pests, water parameters, climatic factors and plant traits. This study was conducted to determine effects of water parameters, climatic factors and plant traits on abundant insects. Findings of the studies showed that there were significant correlations between all beneficial insects in paddy field and water parameters tested, namely, water temperature, salinity, turbidity, pH, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, ammonia and total suspended solids. Moreover, the selected water parameters of water temperature, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand and chemical oxygen demand were good predictors for abundant beneficial insects in paddy field at Sungai Burong, specifically for insects of sub-orders Anisoptera and Zygoptera, and insects from families Gerridae and Coccinellidae. The plant height, insect pest, temperature, rainfall and humidity were found to be good predictors on the abundance of beneficial insects; nevertheless, the R2 value of multiple regression models was relatively low due to significant relationship between water parameters and insects. Consideration factors of water parameters, climatic factors and plant traits were strongly correlated with those parameters and abundance of insects in the paddy field at Sungai Burong, Tanjung Karang, Selangor.
基金Supported by Shenzhen Municipal Scientific and Technological Innovation Committee:JCYJ 20140408152909270Project of Shenzhen Municipal Key Laboratory of Technical Research and Development Fund Conditions and Platform Construction Plan:CXB 201111250113A
文摘Objective To explore the effect of electroacupuncture at conception vessel and governor vessel on correlative signals of inflammatory response stressinjury-repair in cerebral ischemia reperfusion rats. Methods A total of 216 rats were included in the experiment, of which 192 rats were randomly divided into four groups, including sham operation group(group A), model group(group B), governor vessel group(group C), and conception vessel and governor vessel group(group D), 48 rats in each group. The rats in each group were further divided into six sub-groups, including 12 h group, 24 h group, 48 h group, 72 h group, 96 h group and 144 h group. MCAO operation course was simulated in group A, and the common carotid artery, internal carotid artery and external carotid artery on the right side were exposed, without insertion of suture or treatment. After completion of modeling in group B, treatment was not conducted. After completion of modeling in group C, "Shuǐgōu(水沟 GV 26)", "Bǎihuì(百会 GV 20)" and "Dàzhuī(大椎 GV 14)" of governor vessel were selected, and electroacupuncture device was connected with "GV 14" and "GV 20". After completion of modeling in group D, "GV 26", "GV 20" and "GV 14" of governor vessel, and "Qìhǎi(气海 CV 6)", "Guānyuán(关元 CV 4)" and "Chéngjiāng(承浆 CV 24)" of conception vessel were selected; electroacupuncture device was connected with "GV 14" and "GV 20", "CV 4" and "CV 6". Neurological severity score was conducted.Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was applied to determine the concentration of peripheral serum adrenocorticotropic hormone(ACTH) of rats, and immunohistochemical method was adopted to detect the expression levels of tumor necrosis factor α(TNF-α) and transforming growth factor β1(TGF-β1) in brain tissue of rats. The other 24 rats were also randomly divided into four groups mentioned above, 6 rats in each group, to detect cerebral ischemie volume. Results Compared with group B, the ischemia volume in brain tissue at 144 h after cerebral ischemia reperfusion decreased significantly in group C and group D(P〈0.05), and the ischemia volume in group D was less than that in group C(P〈0.05). The neurological impairment scores of group C and group D at all time points were lower than those of group B, and the differences were statistically significant(all P〈0.05). The scores of group D at all time points were lower than those of group C, and the differences since 24 h were statistically significant(all P〈0.05). Compared with group B, the excessive expression of ACTH was suppressed dynamically and generally in group C and group D(P〈0.05); the expression level of TNF-α was down-regulated and TGF-β1 was up-regulated as well in group C and group D(P〈0.05). The effect in group D was superior to that in group C. Conclusion Electroacupuncture at conception vessel and governor vessel can protect brain through the intervention of the expression of correlative signals of inflammatory response stress-injury-repair of cerebral ischemia reperfusion.
文摘Objective To identify the changes in serum insulin like growth factor Ⅰ (IGF Ⅰ) and IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs) in children with nephrotic syndrome (NS) and the effect of glucocorticoid on serum IGF Ⅰ and IGFBPs Methods We measured serum IGF Ⅰ and IGFBPs levels by radioimmune assay and immune radiomagnetic assay in 36 children with NS, consisting of an active stage group (ANS, n=12), a remission stage group (RE, n=12), an active stage group with glucocorticoid treatment (GNS, n=12), and a normal control group (NC, n=10) Results 1) Compared to NC, serum levels of IGF Ⅰ and IGFBP 3 were decreased ( P <0 01); serum levels of IGFBP 1 and IGFBP 2 were increased ( P <0 01) in the ANS group 2) Serum levels of IGF Ⅰ and IGFBP 3 were higher and IGFBP 1 and IGFBP 2 were lower in the RE Group than in theANS Group ( P <0 01) 3) Compared to the ANS group, serum levels of IGF Ⅰ and IGFBP 3 were increased ( P <0 01) and serum levels of IGFBP 1 and IGFBP 2 were decreased ( P <0 01) in the GNS group 4) A correlation was found between serum levels of IGFBP 3 and albumin in the active stage group ( r =0 76, P <0 01) There was also a correlation between serum levels of IGF Ⅰ and IGFBP 3 and an inverse correlation between the serum level of IGF Ⅰ and serum levels of IGFBP 1 and IGFBP 2 in the ANS group No other correlations were observed Conclusions The serum levels of IGF Ⅰ and IGFBPs are altered in children in the active stage of NS, but return to normal in the remission stage GC treatment may influence serum IGF Ⅰ and IGFBPs in children with NS Changes in IGF Ⅰ and IGFBPs levels may play a role in the growth retardation of NS children
文摘Objective: To observe the effect of moxibustion on the protein and mRNA expressions of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 2 (CRFR1) in hypothalamus of trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced experimental colitis rats, and to explore the central mechanisms of moxibustion in improving visceral pain and the pain-related emotions in experimental colitis rats. Methods: Thirty-six Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into a normal group (NG), a model group (MG), a herb-partitioned moxibustion group (HPMG) and a sham herb-partitioned moxibustion group (SHPMG). Except the NG, rats in the remaining three groups all received TNBS enema to establish experimental colitis models. The HPMG received herb-partitioned moxibustion (HPM) at bilateral Tianshu (ST 25) and Qihai (CV 6) for intervention; for the SHPMG, the herbal cakes and moxa cones were only placed on the acupoints but not ignited; rats in the MG and NG were only fixed in the same way as those in the HPMG but did not receive any treatment. At the end of the intervention, the abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR) score, the open field test (OFT) score and the elevated plus maze (EPM) score were observed to measure the changes in visceral pain and pain-related emotions of the rats. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to examine the expressions of CRF and CRFR1 proteins in hypothalamus; the fluorescence-based quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect the expressions of CRF and CRFR1 mRNAs in hypothalamus. Results: Compared with the NG, the AWR score increased significantly and the OFT and EPM scores dropped significantly in the MG (all P〈0.05), and the expressions of hypothalamic CRF and CRFR1 proteins and mRNAs increased significantly (all P〈0.01). Compared with the MG and SHPMG, the AWR score dropped significantly and the OFT and EPM scores increased significantly in the HPMG (all P〈0.01), and the expressions of hypothalamic CRF and CRFRI proteins and mRNAs decreased significantly (all P〈0.05). There were no significant differences between the MG and the SHPMG (all P〉0.05). Conclusion: HPM can down-regulate the abnormally increased expressions of CRF and CRFR1 proteins and mRNAs in hypothalamus of the TNBS-induced experimental colitis rats, which is plausibly one of its action mechanisms in mitigating visceral pain and the pain-related emotions in the experimental colitis rats.