Carpoglyphus lactis (Carpoglyphidae) infestation in the stored medicinal Fructus Jujubae.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the breeding rate and breeding density of Carpoglyphus lactisin stored Fructus Jujubaein Anhui, China in order to provide a scientific basis for prevention of Carpoglyphus lactis (C. lactis)from spoiling the dried fruit of such category. METHODS: By the breeding nature of C. lactis,we collected samples of Fructus Jujubae, which were kept over 6 months in general, from the dried fruit shop and (or) Chinese herbal medicine warehouse, and isolated C. lactisfrom those samples. The mite specimens were prepared, and microscopically and morphologically identified. RESULTS: C. lactiswas identified in 19 of the 300 samples, with breeding density and breeding rate of 6.52 heads/g and 6.33%. Constitute ratio at distinct developmental phase was associated with adult (including nymph, 85.71%), larva (12.27%), hypopus (0.56%) and egg (1.45%), respectively. The richness index, diversity index and evenness index was 1.644, 1.644 and 0.923, respectively. CONCLUSION: Carpoglyphus lactis appears infesting in large quantity in the Fructus Jujubaestored in the above places in Anhui province, and the density is higher. Therefore, it is urgent to take effective measures to prevent C. lactisfrom spreading over other dried products stored in the same room and potential human intestinal acariasis as a result of the biological contamination.

Investigation on the zoonotic trematode species and their natural infection status in Huainan areas of China.

BACKGROUND: To investigate the species of zoonotic trematodes and the endemic infection status in the domestic animals in Huainan areas, north Anhui province of China, we intent to provide evidences for prevention of the parasitic zoonoses. METHODS: The livestock and poultry (definitive hosts) were purchased from the farmers living in the water areas, including South Luohe, Yaohe, Jiaogang and Gaotang Lakes, and dissected the viscera of these collected hosts to obtain the parasitic samples. Then the specimens were microscopically identified, with reference to the descriptions in previous literatures for counting the zoonotic species found in these areas. RESULTS: A total of 41 species were detected in the domestic samples, in which 23 were zoonotic trematodes, and 18 were internal trematodes of animals. Of the 41 species, 38 were novel records in Huainan areas, and 12 were newly detected in Anhui province, including Metorchis anatinus, Echinostoma hortense, E. cinetorchis, E. angustitestis, E. lindoensis, E. nordiana, E. ilocanum, Metagonimus yokogawai, Prosthogonimus gracilis, P. skrjabini, P. anatinusand Trichobilharzia sp. which generally occurred in definitive hosts of chicken, ducks, geese, dogs, cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goats and pigs, respectively. CONCLUSION: A large quantity of livestock and poultry are fed by the local farmers living along the river banks in Huainan area, suggesting that the population in that area are at higher risks of natural focus of zoonotic infections, since these animals are favorable definitive hosts to the zoonotic trematodes.

Carpoglyphus lactis (Carpoglyphidae) infestation in the stored medicinal Fructus Jujubae / Infestación por el ácaro Carpoglyphus lactis (Carpoglyphidae) en frutas desecadas (Fructus Jujubae) para usos médicos

Objective: To investigate the breeding rate and breeding density of Carpoglyphus lactis in stored Fructus Jujubae in Anhui, China in order to provide a scientific basis for prevention of Carpoglyphus lactis (C. lactis) from spoiling the dried fruit of such category. Methods: By the breeding nature of C. lactis, we collected samples of Fructus Jujubae, which were kept over 6 months in general, from the dried fruit shop and (or) Chinese herbal medicine warehouse, and isolated C. lactis from those samples. The mite specimens were prepared, and microscopically and morphologically identified. Results: C. lactis was identified in 19 of the 300 samples, with breeding density and breeding rate of 6.52 heads/g and 6.33%. Constitute ratio at distinct developmental phase was associated with adult (including nymph, 85.71%), larva (12.27%), hypopus (0.56%) and egg (1.45%), respectively. The richness index, diversity index and evenness index was 1.644, 1.644 and 0.923, respectively. Conclusion: Carpoglyphus lactis appears infesting in large quantity in the Fructus Jujubae stored in the above places in Anhui province, and the density is higher. Therefore, it is urgent to take effective measures to prevent C. lactis from spreading over other dried products stored in the same room and potential human intestinal acariasis as a result of the biological contamination (AU)

Objetivo: investigar la tasa de reproducción y densidad de cría de Carpoglyphus lactis en productos almacenados de Fructus jujubae en Anhui, China, con el fin de proporcionar una base científica para prevenir el deterioro de la fruta desecada de dicha categoría. Métodos: para la cría de C. lactis hemos recogido muestras de Fructus jujubae, que se mantuvieron a temperatura ambiente durante 6 meses, en la tienda de frutas secas o en el almacén de hierbas medicinales y se aislaron C. lactis de esas muestras. Se prepararon los especímenes del ácaro y se identificaron microscópica y morfológicamente. Resultados: C. lactis fue identificado en 19 de las 300 muestras, con densidad de cría y reproducción índice de 6,52 cabezas/g y 6,33%. La proporción de ácaros en las distintas fases de desarrollo fue: adultos (incluida la ninfa, 85,71%), larva (12,27%), hypopus (0,56%) y huevo (1,45%). El índice de riqueza, el índice de diversidad y el índice de uniformidad fue de 1,644, 1,644 y 0,923, respectivamente. Conclusión: el ácaro Carpoglyphus lactis infesta en gran cantidad los almacenes de Fructus jujubae de la provincia de Anhui (China). Por lo tanto, es urgente tomar medidas eficaces para prevenir la propagación del ácaro sobre productos secos almacenados en la misma habitación y la posible acariasis intestinal humana como consecuencia de la contaminación biológica (AU)

Investigation on the zoonotic trematode species and their natural infection status in Huainan areas of China / Investigación sobre las especies de trematodos zoonóticos y su estado natural de infección en las zonas de Huainan en China

Background: To investigate the species of zoonotic trematodes and the endemic infection status in the domestic animals in Huainan areas, north Anhui province of China, we intent to provide evidences for prevention of the parasitic zoonoses. Methods: The livestock and poultry (definitive hosts) were purchased from the farmers living in the water areas, including South Luohe, Yaohe, Jiaogang and Gaotang Lakes, and dissected the viscera of these collected hosts to obtain the parasitic samples. Then the specimens were microscopically identified, with reference to the descriptions in previous literatures for counting the zoonotic species found in these areas. Results: A total of 41 species were detected in the domestic samples, in which 23 were zoonotic trematodes, and 18 were internal trematodes of animals. Of the 41 species, 38 were novel records in Huainan areas, and 12 were newly detected in Anhui province, including Metorchis anatinus, Echinostoma hortense, E. cinetorchis, E. angustitestis, E. lindoensis, E. nordiana, E. ilocanum, Metagonimus yokogawai, Prosthogonimus gracilis, P. skrjabini, P. anatinus and Trichobilharzia sp. which generally occurred in definitive hosts of chicken, ducks, geese, dogs, cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goats and pigs, respectively. Conclusion: A large quantity of livestock and poultry are fed by the local farmers living along the river banks in Huainan area, suggesting that the population in that area are at higher risks of natural focus of zoonotic infections, since these animals are favorable definitive hosts to the zoonotic trematodes (AU)

Introducción: para investigar las especies de trematodos zoonóticos y el estado de infección endémica en los animales domésticos en áreas de Huainan, al norte de la provincia de Anhui, China, tenemos la intención de proporcionar evidencias para la prevención de enfermedades zoonóticas. Métodos: el ganado y las aves (hospedadores definitivos) fueron adquiridos a los campesinos que viven en las zonas con agua, incluyendo el sur de Luohe, Yaohe, Jiaogang y Gaotang Lagos, y se diseccionaron las vísceras de estos anfitriones recogidos para obtener las muestras parasitarias. Las muestras fueron identificadas microscópicamente, con referencia a las descripciones de la literatura revisada para contar las especies zoonóticas que se encuentran en estas áreas. Resultados: se detectaron un total de 41 especies en las muestras nacionales, de las que 23 eran trematodos zoonóticos y 18 eran trematodos internos de los animales. Estas especies representaron 22 géneros en 12 familias de 4 órdenes. De las 41 especies, 38 fueron registros nuevos en las áreas de Huainan y 12 fueron detectadas recientemente en la provincia de Anhui, incluyendo Metorchis anatinus, Echinostoma hortense, E. cinetorchis, E. angustitestis, E. lindoensis, E. nordiana, Euparyphium ilocanum, Metagonimus yokogawai, Prosthogonimus gracilis, P. skrjabini, P. anatinus y Trichobilharzia sp., generalmente producidos en huéspedes definitivos de pollo, patos, gansos, perros, vacas, búfalos, ovejas, cabras y cerdos, respectivamente. Conclusión: los agricultores locales que viven a lo largo de las orillas del río se alimentan de gran cantidad de ganado y aves de corral de la zona de Huainan, lo que sugiere que la población en esa área tiene mayor riesgo ante el foco natural de las infecciones zoonóticas, ya que estos animales son huéspedes definitivos favorables a los trematodos zoonóticos (AU)

[The effect of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus group 2 allergen T cell fusion epitope on STAT6 signaling in mice with asthma].

Objective: To investigate the alterations of signal transducer and activator of transcription factor 6(STAT6) signaling in a mouse model of asthma receiving treatment with Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus group 2 allergen(Der p 2) T cell fusion epitope and the mechanisms of the specific immunotherapy. Methods: Thirty mice were randomly divided into three groups by the random number table method: the asthma group, the treatment group receiving immunotherapy with Der p 2 T cell fusion epitope, and the negative control group (PBS group)(n = 10 in each group). Mice in the asthma and the treatment groups received intraperitoneal (i. p.) injection of 100 µl Der p 2 solution [PBS containing 100 µg/ml Der p 2 and 2% Al(OH)3] on days 0,7 and 14, respetively, while mice in the PBS group received same volume of PBS containing 2% Al(OH)3. From day 21, 30-min steam inhalation of 0.5 µg/ml Der p 2 was applied to the asthma and treatment groups (once daily for 7 successive days), and the PBS group inhaled same volume of PBS. From day 25 to day 27, the mice in the treatment group received i. p. injection of 200 µl of Der p 2 T cell fusion epitope (100 µg/ml) while the PBS and the asthma groups received the same volume of PBS. Mice were sacrificed at 24 h after the last inhalation, the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) collected, and the total protein was extracted from the lung tissue. The levels of IFN-γ, IL-4 and IL-13 in BALF were determined by ELISA. The expression of STAT6 and phosphorylated STAT6 (p-STAT6) in the lung tissue was detected by Western blotting. Data were analyzed with the one-way variance analysis (ANOVA) method. Results: The level of IFN-γ in the treatment group[(234.40 ± 24.46) pg/ml] was significantly higher than that in the asthma group[(155.80 ± 20.53) pg/ml](P < 0.01). The levels of IL-4 and IL-13 in the treatment group [(30.00 ± 5.50) pg/ml and (174.50 ± 25.99) pg/ml, respectively] were both significantly lower than those in the asthma group[(53.28 ± 8.26) pg/ml and (308.10 ± 28.32) pg/ml, respectively](P < 0.01). Similarly, the levels of STAT6 and p-STAT6 in the treatment group(0.803 ± 0.221 and 0.966 ± 0.323, respectively) were both significantly lower than those in the asthma group (1.669 ± 0.296 and 1.735 ± 0.298, respectively)(P < 0.01). Conclusion: The Der p 2 T cell fusion epitope may function through inhibiting STAT6 to treat asthma in mice.

An updated meta-analysis of transforming growth factor-ß1 gene: Three well-characterized polymorphisms with asthma.

The association between TGF-ß1 polymorphisms and asthma risk has been widely reported, but results were controversial. We performed this meta-analysis based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and meta-analyses statement (PRISMA). Electronic database of Pub Med, Web of Science, CBM, and CNKI were searched for eligible articles published up to September, 2013. The effect summary odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals were obtained. Finally, a total of 20 articles were identified, 17 studies with 3694 cases and 5613 controls for C-509T polymorphism, 7 studies with 1109 cases and 1098 controls for T869C polymorphism and 5 studies with 849 cases and 829 controls for G915C polymorphism. For C-509T, significant associations with asthma were found in Asians (TT+TC vs. CC: P=0.004, OR=1.43, 95%CI=1.12-1.81, Pheterogeneity=0.001) and in Caucasians (P=0.05, OR=1.16, 95%CI=1.00-1.34, Pheterogeneity=0.36). With respect to T869C, a small significant association was observed in overall analysis of allele contrasts(C vs. T: OR=1.14, 95%CI: 1.01-1.29, P=0.03) and homozygote comparison (CC vs. TT: OR=1.29, 95%CI: 1.00-1.65, P=0.05), but no significant risks were found among Caucasian population and Asian population. For G915C polymorphism, no significant association with asthma risk was demonstrated in overall analysis and subgroup analyses according to ethnicity for all genetic models. This meta-analysis suggested that TGF-ß1 C-509T and T869C polymorphisms may be risk factors for asthma.

[Morphological observation on hypopus of Caloglyphus berlesei by optical microscope].

OBJECTIVE: To understand the structure characteristics of hypopus of Caloglyphus berlesei. METHODS: The hypopus of C. berlesei was collected from the feed of Chinese Polyphaga, and was made into the conventional glass specimens. The structure characteristics of hypopus of C. berlesei were observed by an optical microscope. RESULTS: The hypopus of C. berlesei had 4 pairs of legs, and the foot claws and tarsus were well-developed. The structural features were shown, such as the setae of tibia and setae of genu. Genital plates were obviously ossified. CONCLUSION: The research on hypopus of Caloglyphus berlesei provides the reference for its further scientific classification and research on the life cycle.

[Immunotherapeutic Effect of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus Group 1 Allergen T Cell Epitope Peptide Against Allergic Asthma in Mice].

Objective: To study the specific immunotherapeutic effect of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus group 1 major allergen T-cell fusion epitope peptide vaccine TAT-IhC-DPTCE against allergic asthma. Methods: One hundred and twenty SPF-grade BALB/c mice were randomized into PBS group (group A), asthma group （group B）, and immune treatment groups respectively receiving intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of ProDer p 1 allergen (group C), DPTCE （group D）, TAT-DPTCE (group E) or TAT-IhC-DPTCE (group F) （n=20 in each group）. In detail, PBS （group A） or allergen extract derived from Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus （groups B-F, 10 µg） was intraperitoneally injected on days 0, 7 and 14, and was continued by aerosol inhalation from day 21 for 7 consecutive days （0.5 µg/ml, once/day, 30 min each time）. The mice in groups C-F received i.p. injections of 100 µg/ml ProDer p 1, DPTCE, TAT-DPTCE and TAT-IhC-DPTCE respectively 30 min prior to inhalation challenge on days 25-27 as a specific immunotherapy, while those in groups A and B received 200 µl PBS. Twenty-four hours after the last inhalation challenge, all the mice were sacrificed. The lung histopathological changes were examined by HE staining. The levels of IFN-γ, IL-13, IL-10 and TGF-ß in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was determined with ELISA, and eosinophils in the BALF were counted (n=20 mice in each group). The serum level of IgE, IgG1 and IgG2a in orbital blood was determined by ELISA（n=5 mice in each group）. Results: HE staining revealed increased BALF eosinophils and decreased pulmonary inflammation in group F compared with group B. The IFN-γ level in group F ［（298.75±26.09） pg/mlï¼½ was significantly higher than those in groups B［（158.71±20.89） pg/mlï¼½, C［（210.38±18.92） pg/mlï¼½, D ［（229.44±13.00） pg/mlï¼½ and E［（233.24±20.39） pg/mlï¼½ （all P<0.01）. Similar results were also found for IL-10 and TGF-ß, while the IL-13 levels in groups C ［（47.35±4.71） pg/mlï¼½, D ［（41.90±4.28） pg/mlï¼½, E［（41.05±6.50） pg/mlï¼½ and F［（18.53±5.67） pg/mlï¼½ were all significantly lower than that in group B ［（66.68±6.63） pg/ml］（all P<0.01）. The number of BALF eosinophils in group B ï¼»5.65±0.91ï¼½×105/mlï¼½ was significantly higher than that in group A ［（0.45±0.39）×105/mlï¼½ （P<0.01）, while the BALF eosinophils in groups C ［（4.00±0.59）×105/mlï¼½, D ［（3.39±0.63）×105/mlï¼½, E ［（3.24±0.69）×105/mlï¼½ and F ［（1.42±0.49）×105/mlï¼½ decreased after immune treatment (all P<0.01). ELISA results showed that the serum IgE level in group F ［（5.26±1.72） ng/mlï¼½ was significantly lower than those in group B ［（32.81±2.98） ng/mlï¼½ and the other 3 treatment groups [group C, （20.06±3.17） ng/ml; D, （17.06±3.18） ng/ml; E, （16.23±3.61） ng/mlï¼½. Similar results were also obtained for IgG1. In contrast, the serum IgG2a level in group F［（43.10±1.34） ng/mlï¼½ was significantly higher than those in group B［（12.61±1.87） ng/mlï¼½ and the other 3 treatment groups ï¼»group C, （23.37±2.67） ng/ml; D, （25.60±2.10） ng/ml; E, （25.91±1.33） ng/mlï¼½ （all P<0.01）. Conclusion: Immunotherapy with chimeric TAT-IhC-DPTCE can effectively ameliorate the allergic airway response and pulmonary inflammation in mice.

[Exploration on the Technology of Counter Staining of Fluke].

Fixed samples of Clonorchis sinensis and Fasciolopsis buski were stained with acetocarmine and malachite green, or stained with acetocarmine only. The samples displayed three different colors after staining with acetocarmine and malachite green. The digestive system, excretory system and the surrounding muscle tissue were stained reddish, the uterus was bright green, and the vitellarium at each side of the worm was tan. Staining with the two dyes resulted in clear structure and moderate degree of staining, and allowed three-dimensional observation, while staining with acetocarmine highlighted the testis tissue. Therefore, combination of the two staining methods is recommended in teaching and research to more effectively facilitate observation.

[Cloning and Prokaryotic Expression of Fusion Gene of Group II Allergen Der p2 T Cell Epitope from Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus].

OBJECTIVE: To express and purify the T cell epitope fusion peptide of the major allergen Der p2 from Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus. METHODS: Nucleotide sequences reported to encode four T-cell epitopes (T1-T4) of Der p2 of D. pteronyssinus were linked in the rank of T1-T2-T3-T4. In this way, the chimeric gene was synthesized, named as Der p2 T. The gene of Der p2 T was amplified by PCR, purified, and cloned into the pET-28a (+) vector, forming the prokaryotic recombinant expression vector pET-28a (+)-Der p2 T. This formation was verified by double digestion. The pET-28a (+)-Der p2 T vector was transfected into E. coli strain BL-21, and its expression was induced by addition of IPTG. The recombinant protein was purified and collected by Ni-NTA affinity chromatography, and prepared for SDS-PAGE and Western blotting analysis. ELISA was used to evaluate the binding ability of Der p2 T cell epitope fusion peptide to serum IgE from patients with house dust mite allergy. RESULTS: Double digestion results confirmed the construction of the pET-28a (+)-Der p2 T vector. SDS-PAGE revealed the expression of recombinant Der p2 T cell epitope fusion peptide with M, of 10,000. Western blotting confirmed the purification of Der p2 T cell epitope fusion peptide. The binding ability of Der p2 T cell epitope fusion peptide to serum IgE from patients with house dust mite allergy [(37.70±9.89) µg/ml] decreased significantly in comparison to that of Der p2 [(85.89±9.63) µg/ml] (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: The Der p2 T cell epitope fusion peptide is prepared, and its binding ability to serum IgE from patients with house dust mite allergy significantly decreases than that of Der p2.

[Biological toxicity of heavy metals to Caenorhabditis elegans].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the biological toxicity of heavy metals by using Caenorhabditis elegans. METHODS: The C. elegans at L4 stage were exposed to CdCl, CrCl3, As2O3, PbCh2, HgCl2 with low concentrations and M9 buffer (the control group) for 72 h, respectively, and the effects of heavy metals with different concentrations on the survival time and reproduction of C. elegans were evaluated. RESULTS: After exposure to 2.5, 10 µmol/L HgCl2 and PbCl2, 10 µmol/L CdCl2, and 50 µmol/L CrCl3 for 72 h, respectively, the life spans and survival curves of the C. elegans were different from those in the control group, the differences were statistically significant (all P < 0.05). After exposure to CdCl2, CrCl3, As2O3, PbCl2 and HgCl2 with the con- centrations of 2.5, 50, 100 µmol/L for 72 h, respectively, the generational time and brood size of C. elegans were all different from those in the control group (all P < 0.01). Among the 5 heavy metals at low concentrations, the reproduction toxicity of Hg was bigger than Pb, Cd, Cr, and the toxicity of As was the weakest. CONCLUSION: Heavy metal exposure can affect the life span and reproductive toxicity of C. elegans.

[Metorchis orientalis founded in basin of Wuhu City, Anhui Province].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the epidemic situation of Metorchis orientalis in Wuhu City, Anhui Province. METHODS: Three lakes (Fengming, Longwo and Kui lakes) were selected in Wuhu City, and the poultries around the lakes and freshwater fishes in the lakes were captured to test the infection of M. orientalis, and the infection rates were calculated. RESULTS: The adult worms of M. orientalis were found in gall bladder and hepatic duct of domestic ducks with infection rate of 16.7%. The metacercariae of M. orientalis were discovered in the muscle of Pseudorasbora parva and Pseudogobio rivularis with infection rates of 7.13% and 3.38% respectively. CONCLUSION: M. orientalis is endemic in Wuhu City, which should be paid enough attention to the animal husbandry, aquaculture and medicine.

STUDY OF ACAROID MITES POLLUTION IN STORED FRUIT-DERIVED CHINESE MEDICINAL MATERIALS.

OBJECTIVE: to investigate the species and breeding density of acaroid mites in stored fruit-derived Chinese medicinal materials in Anhui province. METHODS: samples of stored fruit-derived Chinese medicinal materials were collected from 30 herb stores and storehouses in 17 Anhui cities, where the breeding acaroids mites were detected. RESULTS: 20 species of acaroids mites were found in 33 samples, belonging to 15 genus, 5 families of the acaridae respectively, among which T. putrescentiae, A. farinae, C. lactis, and C. berlesei are predominant species. CONCLUSION: stored fruit-derived Chinese medicinal materials in Anhui areas suffer from serious acaroid mites pollution. Therefore, proactive measures should be taken to control acaroid mites from breeding in an effort to reduce the harm on medicinal materials.

Objetivo: investigar las especies y la densidad de reproducción de ácaros en productos medicinales chinos almacenados derivados de la fruta en la provincia de Anhui. Métodos: muestras de productos medicinales chinos almacenados derivados de la fruta fueron recogidos a partir de 30 herbolarios y almacenes en 17 ciudades de Anhui, donde se detectó la reproducción de ácaros. Resultados: se detectaron 20 especies de ácaros en 33 muestras, pertenecientes a 15 géneros, 5 familias de ácaros respectivamente, entre los cuales T. putrescentiae, A. farinae, C. lactis y C. berlesei son las especies predominantes. Conclusión: los productos medicinales chinos almacenados derivados de la fruta en la zona de Anhui sufren una grave contaminación por ácaros. Por lo tanto, se deben tomar medidas dinámicas para controlar la reproducción de ácaros en un esfuerzo por reducir los daños en los productos medicinales.

Study of acaroid mites pollution in stored fruit-derived Chinese medicinal materials / Estudio de la contaminación por ácaros en productos medicinales chinos almacenados derivados de la fruta

Objective: to investigate the species and breeding density of acaroid mites in stored fruit-derived Chinese medicinal materials in Anhui province. Methods: samples of stored fruit-derived Chinese medicinal materials were collected from 30 herb stores and storehouses in 17 Anhui cities, where the breeding acaroids mites were detected. Results: 20 species of acaroids mites were found in 33 samples, belonging to 15 genus, 5 families of the acaridae respectively, among which T. putrescentiae, A. farinae, C. lactis, and C. berlesei are predominant species. Conclusion: stored fruit-derived Chinese medicinal materials in Anhui areas suffer from serious acaroid mites pollution. Therefore, proactive measures should be taken to control acaroid mites from breeding in an effort to reduce the harm on medicinal materials (AU)

Objetivo: investigar las especies y la densidad de reproducción de ácaros en productos medicinales chinos almacenados derivados de la fruta en la provincia de Anhui. Métodos: muestras de productos medicinales chinos almacenados derivados de la fruta fueron recogidos a partir de 30 herbolarios y almacenes en 17 ciudades de Anhui, donde se detectó la reproducción de ácaros. Resultados: se detectaron 20 especies de ácaros en 33 muestras, pertenecientes a 15 géneros, 5 familias de ácaros respectivamente, entre los cuales T. putrescentiae, A. farinae, C. lactis y C. berlesei son las especies predominantes. Conclusión: los productos medicinales chinos almacenados derivados de la fruta en la zona de Anhui sufren una grave contaminación por ácaros. Por lo tanto, se deben tomar medidas dinámicas para controlar la reproducción de ácaros en un esfuerzo por reducir los daños en los productos medicinales (AU)

Association between CTLA-4 exon-1 +49A/G polymorphism and asthma: an updated meta-analysis.

The results of studies on association between CTLA-4 exon-1 +49A/G (rs231775) polymorphism and susceptibility to asthma are controversial. To derive a more precise estimation of the relationship between the CTLA-4 exon-1 +49A/G polymorphism and asthma, a meta-analysis of 15 published case-control studies was performed. 15 studies meeting our inclusion criteria comprising 4006 asthma cases and 3729 controls were included. The effect summary odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals were obtained. Publication bias was tested by funnel plot, Egger's test and heterogeneity was assessed. The combined results showed that there were significant differences in genotype distribution between asthma cases and control on the basis of all studies, GG + GA versus AA (OR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.62-0.93; P = 0.008). When stratifying for the race, the phenomenon was found that asthma cases had a significantly higher frequency of GG/GA versus AA (OR = 0.71; 95% CI: 0.51-0.99; P = 0.04) than control in Caucasian. Stratifying subjects by age indicated an association between CTLA-4 +49 GG + GA genotype and asthma in children (OR = 0.75; 95% CI: 0.62-0.90; P = 0.002), but no association in adults (OR = 0.93; 95% CI: 0.76-1.14; P = 0.48). Furthermore, significant association was observed in atopic asthma under the fixed-effects model (GG + GA vs. AA: P = 0.03, OR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.67-0.98, P heterogeneity = 0.22). Our meta-analysis results suggest that CTLA-4 exon-1 +49A/G polymorphism might be a risk factor for asthma susceptibility, at least in Caucasian, children, and patients with atopy status.

[Effect of immunotherapy of recombinant chimeric epitopes of major allergen group 1 from Dermatophagoides farina on asthma of mice].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of immunotherapy of recombinant chimeric epitopes of major allergen group 1 from Dermatophagoides farina on asthma of mice. METHODS: Forty mice were randomly divided into 4 groups: a negative control group, an asthma group, an immunotherapy group of Der f 1, and an immunotherapy group of Der f lA. On the 1st, 7th and 14th day, the mice in the asthma group, immunotherapy group of Der f 1, and immunotherapy group of Der f 1A were injected intraperitoneally with the extract of D. farina 3 times to sensitize; and on the 21st day, the atomized inhalation was carried out for 7 days. In the control group, phosphate buffer solution (PBS) was applied for sensitization and inhalation. In the immunotherapy groups, Der f 1 and Der f 1A were applied to carry out the specific immunotherapy respectively for 30 min before the inhalation. Then, the leukocytes in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were numbered and the pathological sections of lung tissues were observed; IL-5 and IFN-γ in BALF and spleen cell culture supernatants (SCCS) as well as the specific IgE, IgG2a in the sera were detected. RESULTS: Compared with the asthma group, the lung inflammation of mice in the immunotherapy groups was lightened, and the total numbers of leukocytes in BALF were significantly reduced; IL-5 was significantly reduced and IFN-γ was significantly increased in BALF and SCCS of mice in the immunotherapy groups; and the specific IgE was significantly reduced and IgG2a was significantly increased in the sera of mice in the immunotherapy groups (all P< 0.01). CONCLUSION: The recombinant chimeric epitopes of major allergen group 1 from D. farina could effectively relieve the symptom of asthma in mice, so as to provide the evidence for specific immunotherapy.

[Trematode Aspidogastrea found in Huaihe River].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the epidemic situation of trematode Aspidogastrea in the Huaihe River. METHODS: The mussels in the Huaihe River were collected, numbered and dissected to detect the trematode; and the species of trematodes were identified after dyeing. RESULTS: Totally 79 mussels were collected, and the trematode Aspidogastrea were found from 23 mussels with the infection rate of 29.11%; 209 trematode Aspidogastrea were collected and the average infectiosity of mussels was 9.09. CONCLUSION: Trematode Aspidogastrea is endemic in the Huaihe River and the species is Aspidogaster sp.

Volatile oils of Chinese crude medicines exhibit antiparasitic activity against human Demodex with no adverse effects in vivo.

Demodex is a type of permanent obligatory parasite, which can be found on the human body surface. Currently, drugs targeting Demodex usually result in adverse effects and have a poor therapeutic effect. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the use of Chinese crude medicine volatile oils for targeting and inhibiting Demodex in vitro. The volatile oils of six Chinese crude medicines were investigated, including clove, orange fruit, Manchurian wildginger, cinnamon bark, Rhizome Alpiniae Officinarum and pricklyash peel, which were extracted using a distillation method. The exercise status of Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis and the antiparasitic effects of the volatile oils against the two species were observed using microscopy. A skin irritation test was used to examine the irritation intensity of the volatile oils. In addition, an acute toxicity test was utilized to observe the toxicity effects of the volatile oils on the skin. Xin Fumanling ointment was employed as a positive control to identify the therapeutic effects of the volatile oils. The results indicated that all six volatile oils were able to kill Demodex efficiently. In particular, the clove volatile oil was effective in inducing optimized anti-Demodex activity. The lethal times of the volatile oils were significantly decreased compared with the Xin Fumanling ointment (P<0.05). Furthermore, the skin irritation test results indicated that the clove volatile oil did not trigger any irritation (0.2 and 0.3 points for intact and scratched skin, respectively), and had a safety equal to that of distilled water. There were not any adverse effects observed following application of the clove volatile oil on the intact or scratched skin. In conclusion, the volatile oils of Chinese crude medicines, particularly that of clove, demonstrated an evident anti-Demodex activity and were able to kill Demodex effectively and safely in vivo.

[Analysis of sensitization effect of chimeric allergen TAT-IhC-R8 derived from major allergen group 1 genes of dust mites].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the sensitization effect of allergen TAT-IhC-R8, derived from major allergen group 1 genes of dust mites. METHODS: Forty BALB/c mice were randomly divided into 4 groups, namely PBS group, ovalbumin (OVA) group, R8 group and TAT-IhC-R8 (TIR8) group, 10 mice each group. All the mice in OVA, R8 and TIR8 groups were treated with corresponding allergens (10 µg/ml) on the 0, 7th and 14th day by intraperitoneal injection and nebulized inhalation on day 21 with the concentration of 30 min/d for 7 days. The mice in PBS group were treated with PBS. Twenty-four hours after the last challenge, all the mice were sacrificed, their bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALFs) and sera were collected and their spleen cells were cultured. ELISA was performed to detect the levels of IFN-γ and IL-13 in BALFs and supernatants of cultured splenocytes (SCSs) of the mice, as well as the levels of allergen-specific IgE (sIgE), IgG, and IgG2 in their sera. The number of white blood cells and eosinophils in BALF were calculated. In addition, the airway inflammation and mucus secretion were analyzed by haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. RESULTS: Compared with the PBS group, the lung inflammations of mice in the OVA, R8 and TIR8 groups were observed obviously, including inflammatory infiltration, bronchial epithelial cell breakage and falling off, as well as vasculitis. The numbers of the total white blood cells and eosinophils in BALF of mice in the TIR8 group were significantly more than those in the OVA and R8 groups (all P < 0.01). The IL-13 levels in BALFs and SCSs of mice in the TIR8 group were significantly higher than those in the OVA group and R8 group (all P < 0.01). However, the level of IFN-γ of mice in the TIR8 group was lower than those in the latter 2 groups (all P < 0.01). In addition, the levels of sera sIgE and IgG of mice from the TIR8 group were significantly higher than those in the OVA group and R8 group (all P < 0.01), but the level of IgG2a of the former was significantly lower than those of the latter groups (all P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: TAT-IhC-R8 can effectively stimulate lung inflammations of mice, and its sensitization effect is better than R8's.