Identification of common genes of rhinovirus single/double­stranded RNA­induced asthma deterioration by bioinformatics analysis.

Rhinovirus (RV) is the most common respiratory virus affecting humans. The majority of asthma deteriorations are triggered by RV infections. However, whether the effects of RV single- and double-stranded RNA on asthma deterioration have common target genes needs to be further studied. In the present study, two datasets (GSE51392 and GSE30326) were used to screen for common differentially expressed genes (cDEGs). The molecular function, signaling pathways, interaction networks, hub genes, key modules and regulatory molecules of cDEGs were systematically analyzed using online tools such as Gene Ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, STRING and NetworkAnalyst. Finally, the hub genes STAT1 and IFIH1 were verified in clinical samples using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). A total of 85 cDEGs were identified. Function analysis revealed that cDEGs served an important role in the innate immune response to viruses and its regulation. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1), interferon induced with helicase C domain 1 (IFIH1), interferon regulatory factor 7 (IRF7), DExD/H box helicase 58 (DDX58) and interferon-stimulating gene 15 (ISG15) were detected to be hub genes based on the protein-protein interactions and six topological algorithms. A key module involved in influenza A, the Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, was identified using Cytoscape software. The hub genes were regulated by GATA-binding factor 2 and microRNA-146a-5p. In addition, RT-qPCR indicated that the expression levels of the hub genes STAT1 and IFIH1 were low during asthma deterioration compared with post-treatment recovery samples. The present study enhanced the understanding of the mechanism of RV-induced asthma deterioration.

Dynamic Spheroidization Mechanism and Its Orientation Dependence of Ti-6Al-2Mo-2V-1Fe Alloy during Subtransus Hot Deformation.

The dynamic spheroidization mechanism and its orientation dependence in Ti-6Al-2Mo-2V-1Fe alloys during subtransus hot deformation were studied in this work. For this purpose, hot compression tests were carried out at temperatures of 780-880 °C, with strain rates of 0.001-0.1 s-1. Based on SEM, EBSD and TEM characterization, the results showed that the aspect ratio of the α phase decreased with increasing deformation temperatures and decreasing strain rates. At 880 °C/0.001 s-1, the aspect ratio of the α phase was the smallest at 2.05. The proportion of HAGBs decreased with increasing temperatures and strain rates, which was different from the trend of the spheroidization; this indicated that the formation of HAGBs was not necessary for the spheroidization process. Furthermore, the formation of the α/α interface was related to the evolution of dislocations and twin boundaries at high (880 °C) and low temperatures (780 °C), respectively. Moreover, the dependence of lamellar spheroidization on the crystallographic orientation tilt from the compression direction (θ) was clarified: when θ was between 45° and 60°, both the prism slip and basal slip systems were activated together, which was more favorable for spheroidization. This study could provide guidance for titanium alloy process designs and microstructure regulation.

Identification and prevalence investigation of cyathocotylid trematode (Trematoda: Digenea: Cyathocotylidae) in Carassius auratus in Wuhu, China.

The family Cyathocotylidae trematode is a world-widely distributed parasite whose adults are mainly found in fish, reptiles, birds, and mammals in both freshwater and marine environments. However, little is known of the prevalence of these trematode in China. For the first time, we found Cyathocotylidae trematode in the Wuhu area. Therefore, we investigated the prevalence of metacercariae in Carassius auratus from Zhang Lake, Kui Lake, Qingyi River, and Yangtze River (Wuhu Section) in Wuhu area. A total of 392 one-year-old C. auratus were tested in January, April, July, and October 2019, respectively. After the fish were euthanized, the back, chest, and tail muscles were used for preliminary screening for the presence of metacercariae by direct compression method. Metacercariae were isolated by the artificial digestion method and then morphologically and molecularly identified by cox1 (642 bp) and ITS2 (418 bp) sequences amplification by PCR. Based on morphological features and sequence analysis, they were identified as cyathocotylid metacercariae. The four water sources have different degrees of prevalence throughout the year, the prevalence ranges from 28.45% (29/102) in Yangtze River to 50.55% (46/91) in Zhang Lake, with an average prevalence of 40.56% (159/392). There were also differences in the prevalence in different months: The highest occurred in July, which was 81.63% (80/98), while the lowest occurred in January, which was 8.89% (8/90). This study can provide basic data for the prevention and control of cyathocotylid trematode in this area.

Determination of the complete mitochondrial genome of Lardoglyphus konoi (Acari: Astigmata).

The mitochondrial genome of Lardoglyphus konoi was 14,269 bp long and consisted of 37 genes including 22 transfer RNAs, 13 protein-coding genes and 2 ribosomal RNA genes. All the 13 protein-coding genes had complete start/stop codons. Most inferred tRNAs were extremely truncated and the T- or D-arm was missing. The position of two rRNAs and the largest non-coding region were separated by tRNAs. The Bayesian phylogenetic tree indicated that L. konoi was closely related to Carpoglyphus lactis.

Analysis of allergen components and identification of bioactivity of HSP70 in pollen of Populus deltoides.

BACKGROUND: Allergies caused by pollen from Populus deltoides are common, but the allergic components are still unclear. METHODS: The total proteins in pollen of P. deltoides were analyzed by proteomics, and the potential allergens were identified via the WHO/IUIS database and the allergenOnline database retrieval. One target protein was screened by bioinformatics and expressed in Escherichia coli. The biological activity of the expressed product was verified by animal experiments. RESULTS: The total of 3929 proteins in pollen of P. deltoides were identified, and 46 potential allergens belonging to 10 protein families were recognized by database retrieval. B9N9W6 protein of Hsp70 family was screened by bioinformatics analysis and expressed successfully. ELISA showed that B9N9W6 can stimulate the immune system to produce specific IgE and promote the generation of IL-4. Flow cytometry showed that B9N9W6 can significantly stimulate the proliferation of CD4+ T cells and promote the polarization of Th2 cells. The pathological sections of mice lung tissues indicated that alveolar destruction was more severe in the B9N9W6 group than that of extract group, and there were more inflammatory cells infiltration, mucus exudation and bleeding. CONCLUSION: B9N9W6 is an important antigenic substance in the pollen of P. deltoides. Due to the conserved structure of Hsp70 family, more attention should be paid to the possibility of sensitization when Hsp70 from any pathogenic species is administered.

[Bioinformatics analysis, prokaryotic expression and biological activity of HSP70 domain-containing proteins derived from pollen of Populus deltoides].

Objective To study the bioinformatics characteristics of HSP70 domain proteins derived from pollen of Populus deltoides (P. deltoides), optimize the prokaryotic expression methods, and identify the biological activity of these proteins. Methods Physicochemical characteristics of three kinds of HSP70 domain-containing proteins were analyzed by bioinformatics software. The T/B cell epitopes of these proteins were predicted by Immune Epitope Database and Analysis Resource (IEDB). According to the amino acid sequence provided by Uniprot database, their nucleotide sequences were synthesized and cloned into pET28a(+) plasmid for prokaryotic expression. Protein expression was detected by SDS-PAGE, then the expressed products were purified by nickel column and identified by Western blotting. The protein concentration was measured by protein quantitative kit. Then the three proteins were used as antigens to prepare mouse asthma models, and the concentration of serum total IgE antibody was determined by ELISA. Results The bioinformatics analysis showed that the relative molecular mass (Mr) of B9N9W6, B9GX02 and A0A2K2AYN8 were 71 900, 94 600 and 75 200, respectively. The 13 T-cell epitopes and 14 B-cell epitopes were identified in the three proteins which had high hydrophilia and stability. SDS-PAGE analysis revealed that the genes encoding the three proteins were expressed with three specific bands of approximately Mr 72 000, 95 000 and 75 000, respectively. Western blotting showed the specific bands at the corresponding sites. ELISA showed that the IgE level in the extract group and the A0A2K2AYN8 group were higher than that in the PBS group. Compared with the A0A2K2AYN8 group, the IgE concentration in the B9N9W6 group and B9GX02 group increased significantly. Conclusion The soluble HSP70 domain-containing proteins A0A2K2AYN8, B9GX02 and B9N9W6 derived from pollen of P. deltoides can be expressed as well as purified, and have the biological activity of producing IgE antibodies.

Plexiform schwannomas of cavum conchae in a young girl: report of a rare case.

OBJECTIVE: To report an unusual case describing a plexiform Schwannoma in the ear cavity of a young child. PATIENT: A 3-year-old girl. INTERVENTIONS: The tumor was entirely removed by surgery, the pathologic diagnosis of the isolated tissue was performed, and the surgical incision was routinely treated. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Report the main clinical manifestations and rehabilitation status of patients before, during and after surgery. RESULTS: By surgery, we completely removed the mass. Unlike previous literature reports, we found that the surface of the mass was not encapsulated, and subsequent pathologic reports confirmed that it was indeed a plexiform schwannoma. As of now, the patient did not have adverse reactions or postoperative recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: We recommend a pathologic diagnosis of isolated tissues after they are completely removed during surgery. Furthermore, if the same ear has been operated on before, it may increase the difficulty of this operation.

Bulleyaconitine A Effectively Relieves Allergic Lung Inflammation in a Murine Asthmatic Model.

BACKGROUND Bulleyaconitine A (BLA) has been widely used as analgesic against chronic inflammatory pain in China. However, its potential therapeutic role in asthma remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of BLA on airway inflammation in mice with allergic asthma. MATERIAL AND METHODS Specific-pathogen-free (SPF) female Balb/c mice were randomly divided into the following 6 groups: (1) Control group (NC), (2) Asthma group (AS), (3) BLA-L group, (4) BLA-M group, (5) BLA-H group, and (6) Dexamethasone group. An asthma mouse model was established by administration of ovalbumin (OVA) and mice were sacrificed within 24 h after the last challenge. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method was used to determine the relative expression levels of IgE and IgG in mouse serum. In addition, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was collected and IL-4, TNF-α, and MCP-1 levels were determined by ELISA. Furthermore, eosinophils, lymphocytes, and macrophages in BALF were classified and analyzed, and inflammatory cell infiltration in the airways of mice was determined by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. The expression of NF-κB1 and PKC-δ in mouse lung tissue was determined by Western blot analysis. RESULTS The levels of serum IgE and IgG in BLA- or Dex- treated mice were significantly reduced compared to those in the asthma (AS) group (P<0.01), whereas the levels of cytokines IL-4, TNF-α, and MCP-1 were significantly decreased (P<0.01). HE-staining showed that BLA significantly reduced inflammatory cell infiltration and mucus secretion in lung tissue. Moreover, BLA inhibited the expression of NF-κB1 and PKC-d via the NF-κB signaling pathway in the lung. CONCLUSIONS Our data show that BLA activates PKC-δ/NF-κB to reduce airway inflammation in allergic asthma mice.

A Study on the Correlations of the miR-31 Expression with the Pathogenesis and Prognosis of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the correlations of miR-31 expression with cell proliferation, invasion, and prognosis of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). METHODS: The expression of miR-31 in human laryngeal cancer TU686 cells, human nasopharyngeal carcinoma CNE-2 cells, and normal human oral keratinocyte (NHOK) epithelial cells was detected via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The effects of miR-31 on the proliferation and invasion of HNSCC cells were explored through transfecting miR-31 analogs (miR-31 mimics) and miR-31 inhibitors (anti-miR-31). qRT-PCR was applied to detect the expressions of miR-31 in 56 cases of HNSCC tumor tissues and tumor-adjacent normal tissues. The correlation of miR-31 expression with pathological parameters and survival prognosis of HNSCC patients was also analyzed. RESULTS: The expressions of miR-31 in TU686 and CNE-2 cell lines were significantly higher than that in NHOK cells (p < 0.01). Compared with those in the negative control group, the proliferation and invasion abilities of cells transfected with miR-31 mimics were notably enhanced (p < 0.01), and those of cells transfected with anti-miR-31 were significantly reduced (p < 0.01). In addition, miR-31 mimics significantly reduced ARID1A expression (p < 0.01) and anti-miR-31 increased its expression (p < 0.05). The expression of miR-31 in tumor tissues of HNSCC patients was remarkably higher than that in tumor-adjacent normal tissues (p < 0.01). This, together with clinical data analysis, revealed that the expression of miR-31 was associated with tumor differentiation, metastasis, and staging of patients, and the survival period of patients with lowly expressed miR-31 was longer. CONCLUSIONS: The highly expressed miR-31 can stimulate the proliferation and invasion of HNSCC cells, closely correlated with tumor differentiation, metastasis, and staging of patients. Patients with lowly expressed miR-31 have a longer survival period. Therefore, miR-31 expression can be taken as a crucial reference indicator for the prognosis of HNSCC patients.

A Polysaccharide from Amusium Pleuronectes Combined with Praziquantel Treatment Ameliorates Hepatic Fibrosis in Schistosoma Japonicum-Infected Mice.

BACKGROUND Polysaccharides from bivalves have multiple bioactivities in various aspects of biology. However, the role of a polysaccharide derived from Amusium pleuronectes on potential hepatoprotective effects remains unclear. MATERIAL AND METHODS A water-soluble polysaccharide was isolated from Amusium pleuronectes (APS-1) using ultrasound-assisted hot-water extraction. The molecular weight of APS-1 was approximately 11.7 kDa and was determined by calibration with dextran. APS-1 was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and mainly consisted of a uniform glucose polymer. The protective effect of APS-1 on Schistosoma japonicum-induced liver fibrosis was investigated in a mouse model. RESULTS Treatment with APS-1 increased serum levels of interleukin (IL)-12 and interferon (IFN)-γ, increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and decreased levels of IL-13 and IL-5, and hyaluronidase activity. Moreover, immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the collagen content of hepatic tissue of APS-1-treated mice, including that of collagen I, II, and IV, was dramatically decreased. Furthermore, our data showed that combined treatment of APS-1 with praziquantel had more pronounced effects than treatment with either APS-1 or praziquantel alone. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that the treatment using APS-1 in combination with praziquantel attenuated S. japonicum egg-induced hepatic fibrosis, and possessed potent hepatoprotective activity.

Investigation on the endemic characteristics of Metorchis orientalisin Huainan area, China

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the endemic characteristics of Metorchis orientalis (M. orientalis)in the Huainan area, Anhui province, China. METHODS: The first-intermediate host, second-intermediate host and reservoir hosts were collected, and the endemic characteristics of M. orientalis were examined through field investigation and artificial infection. RESULTS: Investigation was completed in 89 domestic ducks, 156 domestic chicken, 41 domestic geese, 20 domestic cats and 19 dogs. The infection rate of M. orientaliswas 18.0% (16/89) in ducks, 12.2% (19/156) in chicken, 9. 8% (4/41) in geese, 5.0% (1/20) in cats and 5.3% (1/19) in dogs. Sixty-seven cercariae of M. orientaliswere identified in 1,000 Parafossarulu s striatulus,with a natural infection rate of 6.7%, and 19 cercariae occurred in 300 Pseudorasbora parva, with a natural infection rate of 6.33%. The activity of the cercariae of M. orientaliswas associated with light intensity and temperature. The full life cycle of M. orientalisranged from 120 to 140 days; it occurred approximately in 89 days in snails, 28 days in fish and 20 days in ducks. CONCLUSION: M. orientalisis prevalent in the Huainan area, and it may complete its life cycle in Parafossarulus striatulus, Pseudorasbora parva and natively rais ed ducks.

Composition and diversity of acaroids mites (Acari: Astigmata) community in the stored rhizomatic traditional Chinese medicinal materials.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the species and breeding density of ac a roid mites in the stored rhizomatic traditional Chinese medicinal materials in Anhui province, China, in order to supply evidences for control and prevention of such species. METHODS: The stored traditional Chinese medicinal materials of root-stock origins were collected in 30 herb stores and warehouses in 17 cities across Anhui province. Mites were collected by using Tullgren funnel and directicopy, and identified under microscopy. RESULTS: Twenty-two species of acaroid mites, belonging to 15 genera under 5 families, were identified from the total 47 stored samples, in which Tyrophagus putrescentiae, Acarus farinae, Carpoglyphus lactis, and Cologlyplus berlesei were predominant. CONCLUSION: Breeding density of acaroid mites was high in the stored rhizomatic traditional Chinese medicinal materials in Anhui province. This indicates that the traditional Chinese medicinal herbs of root-stock origins in storage are seriously contaminated by the acaroid mites, and such infestation should be positively controlled to reduce the potential harm to public health.

Trematode Aspidogastrea found in the freshwater mussels in the Yangtze River basin.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prevalence of trematode Aspidogastrea in the freshwater mussels in the Yangtze River basin within Anhui province, China. METHODS: We initially harvested the freshwater mussels living in the Yangtze River running through Anhui area, and labeled them with corresponding number. Then the samples were dissected for isolating the flukes, which were identified by conventional staining. RESULTS: Infection rate of trematode Aspidogastrea in freshwater mussels in the Yangtze River basin within the territory of Anhui province was 30.38% (103/339) in general, and a total of 912 flukes of Aspidogastrea were detected in the 103 mussels, with average infection rate of 8.85 for each mussel. CONCLUSION: Trematode Aspidogastrea is prevalent in the freshwater bivalves living in the Yangtze River basin running through Anhui area, and the treamatode was identified as Aspidogaster sp. belong to Aspidogaste under Aspidogastridae of Aspidogastrea.

Composition and diversity of acaroids mites (Acari: Astigmata) community in the stored rhizomatic traditional Chinese medicinal materials / La composición y la diversidad de ácaros (Acari: Astigmata) en productos de la medicina tradicional china

Objective: To investigate the species and breeding density of ac aroid mites in the stored rhizomatic traditional Chinese medicinal materials in Anhui province, China, in order to supply evidences for control and prevention of such species. Methods: The stored traditional Chinese medicinal materials of root-stock origins were collected in 30 herb stores and warehouses in 17 cities across Anhui province. Mites were collected by using Tullgren funnel and directicopy, and identified under microscopy. Results: Twenty-two species of acaroid mites, belonging to 15 genera under 5 families, were identified from the total 47 stored samples, in which Tyrophagus putrescentiae, Acarus farinae, Carpoglyphus lactis, and Cologlyplus berlesei were predominant. Conclusion: Breeding density of acaroid mites was high in the stored rhizomatic traditional Chinese medicinal materials in Anhui province. This indicates that the traditional Chinese medicinal herbs of root-stock origins in storage are seriously contaminated by the acaroid mites, and such infestation should be positively controlled to reduce the potential harm to public health (AU)

Objetivo: investigar las especies y densidad de especies de ácaros en los productos a bases de raíces de la medicina tradicional china en la provincia de Anhui, China, con el fin de proporcionar evidencias para el control y la prevención de tal infestación. Métodos: se recogieron muestras de productos procedentes de raíces usados en la medicina tradicional china en 30 tiendas y almacenes de 17 ciudades de la provincia china de Anhui. Se recogieron las muestras mediante el embudo de Tullgren y la directicopia y los ácaros fueron identificados bajo microscopia. Resultados: se identifi caron 22 especies de ácaros, pertenecientes a 15 géneros menores de 5 familias a partir de 47 muestras almacenadas, en las que Tyrophagus putrescentiae, Acarus farinae, Carpoglyphus lactis y Cologlyplus berlesei eran predominantes. Conclusión: la densidad de ácaros fue alta en el las muestras a base de raíces en el material almacenado para usarse como remedio en la medicina tradicional china en la provincia de Anhui. El control de esta infestación puede reducir el daño potencial para la salud pública (AU)

Trematode Aspidogastrea found in the freshwater mussels in the Yangtze River basin / Trematodos Aspidogastrea encontrados en los mejillones de agua dulce en la cuenca del río Yangtze

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of trematode Aspidogastrea in the freshwater mussels in the Yangtze River basin within Anhui province, China. Methods: We initially harvested the freshwater mussels living in the Yangtze River running through Anhui area, and labeled them with corresponding number. Then the samples were dissected for isolating the flukes, which were identified by conventional staining. Results: Infection rate of trematode Aspidogastrea in freshwater mussels in the Yangtze River basin within the territory of Anhui province was 30.38% (103/339) in general, and a total of 912 flukes of Aspidogastrea were detected in the 103 mussels, with average infection rate of 8.85 for each mussel. Conclusion: Trematode Aspidogastrea is prevalent in the freshwater bivalves living in the Yangtze River basin running through Anhui area, and the treamatode was identified as Aspidogaster sp. belong to Aspidogaste under Aspidogastridae of Aspidogastrea (AU)

Objetivo: investigar la prevalencia de trematodos Aspidogastrea en mejillones de agua dulce en la cuenca del río Yangtze en la provincia de Anhui, China. Métodos: se recogieron mejillones de agua dulce en el río Yangtze a su paso por la provincia de Anhui y se etiquetaron con su número correspondiente. Posteriormente se disecaron para aislar los trematodos por medio de tinción convencional. Resultados: la tasa de infección de trematodos en mejillones de agua dulce en la cuenca del río Yangtze, en el territorio de la provincia de Anhui fue 30,38% (103/339), en general, y un total de 912 trematodos fueron detectados en 103 mejillones, con tasa promedio de infección de 8,85 por cada mejillón. Conclusión: el trematodo Aspidogastrea es frecuente en los bivalvos de agua dulce que viven en la cuenca del río Yangtze, en la región de Anhui, y el trematodo fue identifi cado como Aspidogaster sp. pertenecen a la familia Aspidogaste bajo el género Aspidogastridae de Aspidogastrea (AU)

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.