Laboratory and field studies on the reproductive ecology of Parocneria orienta (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) in China

Hua Yang,Kun-Sheng ZHANG,Wei YANG,Chun-Ping YANG 한국곤충학회 2015 Entomological Research Vol.45 No.2

To lay a foundation for the monitoring, prevention and control of Parocneria orienta, a pest moth in China, we investigated the reproductive ecology of P. orienta, including the environmental factors affecting reproduction and the effects of pheromones in field traps. The results showed that the mating duration is shorter when the temperature is higher, with the optimal temperature range for P. orienta reproduction being 22–27°C. The sex ratio had an effect on the male mating capacity, which significantly increased when the sex ratio was ♀:♂ ≥ 3:1. The average number of matings was 2.44 for males, while female P. orienta mated only once in a lifetime. Males were more attracted to virgin females than to mated females, and the temperature and light period had an effect on the release of sex pheromones by females. Field trap tests using virgin females supported the results obtained in the laboratory, showing that the release of sex pheromones by P. orienta follows a distinct circadian rhythm.

Combined Effects of Six Cytokine Gene Polymorphisms and SNP-SNP Interactions on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk in Southern Guangxi, China

Bei, Chun-Hua,Bai, Hua,Yu, Hong-Ping,Yang, Yan,Liang, Qing-Qing,Deng, Ying-Ying,Tan, Sheng-Kui,Qiu, Xiao-Qiang Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention 2014 Asian Pacific journal of cancer prevention Vol.15 No.16

Cytokine gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are involved in the genesis and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We hypothesized that combined effects of cytokine gene SNPs and SNP-SNP interactions are associated with HCC risk. Six SNPs in cytokine genes (IL-2, IFN-${\gamma}$, IL-$1{\beta}$, IL-6, and IL-10) were genotyped in a study of 720 Chinese HCC cases and 784 cancer-free controls. Although none of these SNPs individually had a significant effect on the risk of HCC, we found that the combined effects of these six SNPs may contribute to HCC risk (OR=1.821, 95% CI=1.078-3.075). This risk was pronounced among smokers, drinkers, and hepatitis B virus carriers. A SNP-SNP interaction between IL-2-330 and IFN-${\gamma}$-1615 was associated with an increased HCC risk (OR=1.078, 95% CI=1.022-1.136). In conclusion, combined effects of SNPs and SNP-SNP interactions in cytokine genes may contribute to HCC risk.

Comparison of Transforming Growth Factor-Beta1 and Lovastatin on Differentiating Mesenchymal Stem Cells toward Nucleus Pulposus-like Phenotype: An In Vitro Cell Culture Study

Shu-Hua Yang,Kai-Chiang Yang,Chih-Wei Chen,Ting-Chun Huang,Yuanhui Sun,Ming-Hsiao Hu 대한척추외과학회 2019 Asian Spine Journal Vol.13 No.5

Study Design: In vitro cell culture study. Purpose: This study aims to investigate the impact of transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1) and lovastatin on differentiating human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) toward nucleus pulposus (NP)-like phenotype. Overview of Literature: MSCs offer a cell source to the cell-based therapy for intervertebral disc degeneration. TGF-β1 is used to induce MSCs to differentiate into NP-like cells; however, an undesired expression of collagen type I has been reported. Statins reportedly stimulate expression of bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) and promote the chondrogenic phenotype to NP cells. However, the effects of statins with or without TGF-β1 on the differentiation of MSCs into NP-like cells remain unclear. Methods: Human MSCs were treated with TGF-β1 alone, lovastatin alone, and simultaneous or sequential treatment with TGF-β1 and lovastatin. After the proposed stimulation, the total RNA was extracted to assess the expression profile of NP cells-specific genes. Hematoxylin–eosin staining was used for examining the microscopic morphology. Furthermore, we detected the syntheses of S-100 protein, aggrecan , and collagen type II in the extracellular matrix using immunohistochemical staining. Results: Simultaneous or sequential treatment of TGF-β1 and lovastatin could further augment the BMP-2 overexpression compared with lovastatin-alone treatment. However, the mRNA expression of aggrecan and collagen type II was not compatible with the expression level of BMP-2 . Immunohistochemical studies revealed compatible production of aggrecan, collagen type II , and S-100 protein in all three groups treated with lovastatin. Cells in groups treated with lovastatin were less populated than that in the group treated with TGF-β1 alone. Conclusions: This study demonstrates a promising role of lovastatin in inducing human MSCs into NP-like cells. However, further optimization of cell density before lovastatin treatment, treatment duration, and combination with TGF-β1 are warranted to attain better stimulatory effects.

A Modified NHL-BFM-95 Regimen Produces Better Outcome Than HyperCVAD in Adult Patients with T-Lymphoblastic Lymphoma, a Two-Institution Experience

Chun Li,Zhi-Jun Wuxiao,Xiaoqin Chen,Guanjun Chen,Yue Lu,Zhongjun Xia,Yang Liang,Hua Wang 대한암학회 2020 Cancer Research and Treatment Vol.52 No.2

Purpose Lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL) is an invasive neoplasm of precursor T-cell or B-cell lineage. A broadly accepted standard treatment for adult LBL has not yet been defined. Materials and Methods To address this issue, we compared two chemotherapy regimens: a modified non-Hodgkin lymphoma Berlin–Frankfurt–Mu!nster-95 (NHL-BFM-95) regimen and HyperCVAD/MA. This retrospective study consecutively enrolled 207 adult LBL patients at two hospitals from 2000 to 2018. Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to assess prognostic factors. Results In the present study, most clinical characteristics were similar between the two treatment groups except for age and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level. Patients treated with modified NHL-BFM-95 regimen tended to be younger and with elevated LDH level. The modified NHLBFM- 95 regimen produced better treatment outcomes than those with HyperCVAD/MA in patients with T-LBL or patients < 40 years. Treatment with HyperCVAD/MA, high Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group scores, and bone marrow involvement were independent risk factors in T-LBL. No patients interrupted treatment for severe adverse events. Conclusion The results suggested that the modified regimen is well-tolerated and can produce the promising outcomes in patients with T-LBL or patients < 40 years.

Identification of ‘Chunpoong’ among Panax ginseng Cultivars Using Real Time PCR and SNP Marker

Hua Sun,Ok Ran Lee,Yu-Jin Kim,Seok-Kyu Jeong,Jun-Gyo In,Woo-Saeng Kwon,Se-Young Kim,Deok-Chun Yang 고려인삼학회 2010 Journal of Ginseng Research Vol.34 No.1

The common DNA extraction methods are indispensable for genotyping by molecular marker analysis. However, genotyping a large number of plants is painstaking. A modified ‘NaOH-Tris’ method used in this study reduces the extraction time while keeping the cost low and avoiding the use of hazardous chemicals. The endpoint analysis by realtime PCR tends to be fast and effective for the development of SNP markers linked to the ‘Chunpoong’ cultivar of Panax ginseng. The ‘Chunpoong’ marker was developed by a major latex-like protein gene sequence. From our results, we suggest that this method is successful in distinguishing ‘Chunpoong’ from a large number of ginseng cultivars.

Isolation and expression analysis of a Novel Major Latex – like Protein (MLP151) Gene from Panax ginseng

Hua Sun,Myung-Kyum Kim,Rama Krishna Pulla,Yu-Jin Kim,Deok-Chun Yang 한국자원식물학회 2008 한국자원식물학회 학술심포지엄 Vol.2008 No.11

Submicron-Size Patterning on the Sapphire Substrate Prepared by Nanosphere Lithography and Nanoimprint Lithography Techniques

Chun-Ming Chang,Ming-Hua Shiao,Donyau Chiang,Chin-Tien Yang,Mao-Jung Huang,Wen-Jeng Hsueh 대한금속·재료학회 2013 METALS AND MATERIALS International Vol.19 No.4

In this paper, we demonstrate and compare the formation of ordered etching masks for submicron-size patterned sapphire substrates through use of the nanosphere lithography and nanoimprint lithography methods. The metal honeycomb network structure and the polymer pillar protrusion structure were obtained from these two methods. Subsequently, the inductively-coupled-plasma reactive ion etching technique was applied to etch the sapphire substrates, and the etchant mixture gases of boron trichloride and argon with the flow rate ratio of 1 to 6 were introduced into the etchant chamber. Two types of submicron -pattern structures were obtained on the sapphire substrate surface after the etching processes were completed. One type of sapphire substrate was the submicron hole array structure and another type was the submicron cone array structure. The working pressure had a considerable effect on the shape geometry and etching rate, and the possible mechanism is discussed.

Distal Mean Nocturnal Baseline Impedance Predicts Pathological Reflux of Isolated Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Symptoms

Hua-Nong Luo,Chen-Chi Wang,Ying-Cheng Lin,Chun-Yi Chuang,Yung-An Tsou,Ja-Chih Fu,Sheng-Shun Yang,Chi-Sen Chang,Han-Chung Lien 대한소화기 기능성질환∙운동학회 2023 Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility (JNM Vol.29 No.2

Background/AimsDiagnosis of isolated laryngopharyngeal reflux symptoms (ILPRS), ie, without concomitant typical reflux symptoms (CTRS), remains difficult. Mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI) reflects impaired mucosal integrity. We determined whether esophageal MNBI could predict pathological esophagopharyngeal reflux (pH+) in patients with ILPRS. MethodsIn this cross-sectional study conducted in Taiwan, non-erosive or low-grade esophagitis patients with predominant laryngopharyngeal reflux symptoms underwent combined hypopharyngeal multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH monitoring when off acid suppressants. Participants were divided into the ILPRS (n = 94) and CTRS (n = 63) groups. Asymptomatic subjects without esophagitis (n = 25) served as healthy controls. The MNBI values at 3 cm and 5 cm above the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and the proximal esophagus were measured. ResultsDistal but not proximal esophageal median MNBI values were significantly lower in patients with pH+ than in those with pH– (ILPRS in pH+ vs pH–: 1607 Ω vs 2709 Ω and 1885 Ω vs 2563 Ω at 3 cm and 5 cm above LES, respectively; CTRS in pH+ vs pH–: 1476 vs 2307 Ω and 1500 vs 2301 Ω at 3 cm and 5 cm above LES, respectively, P < 0.05 for all). No significant differences of any MNBI exist between any pH– subgroups and healthy controls. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve in the ILPRS group were 0.75 and 0.80, compared to the pH– subgroup and healthy controls (P < 0.001 for both), respectively. Interobserver reproducibility was good (Spearman correlation 0.93, P < 0.0001). ConclusionDistal esophageal MNBI predicts pathological reflux in patients with ILPRS.

Spurious mode distinguish by eigensystem realization algorithm with improved stabilization diagram

Chun-Xu Qu,Ting-Hua Yi,Xiao-Mei Yang,Hong-Nan Li 국제구조공학회 2017 Structural Engineering and Mechanics, An Int'l Jou Vol.63 No.6

Modal parameter identification plays a key role in the structural health monitoring (SHM) for civil engineering. Eigensystem realization algorithm (ERA) is one of the most popular identification methods. However, the complex environment around civil structures can introduce the noises into the measurement from SHM system. The spurious modes would be generated due to the noises during ERA process, which are usually ignored and be recognized as physical modes. This paper proposes an improved stabilization diagram method in ERA to distinguish the spurious modes. First, it is proved that the ERA can be performed by any two Hankel matrices with one time step shift. The effect of noises on the eigenvalues of structure is illustrated when the choice of two Hankel matrices with one time step shift is different. Then, a moving data diagram is proposed to combine the traditional stabilization diagram to form the improved stabilization diagram method. The moving data diagram shows the mode variation along the different choice of Hankel matrices, which indicates whether the mode is spurious or not. The traditional stabilization diagram helps to determine the concerned truncated order before moving data diagram is implemented. Finally, the proposed method is proved through a numerical example. The results show that the proposed method can distinguish the spurious modes.

Preparation of minor ginsenosides C-Mc, C-Y, F2, and C-K from American ginseng PPD-ginsenoside using special ginsenosidase type-I from Aspergillus niger g.848

Chun-Ying Liu,Rui-Xin Zhou,Chang-Kai Sun,Ying-Hua Jin,Hong-Shan Yu,Tian-Yang Zhang,Long-Quan Xu,Feng-Xie Jin 고려인삼학회 2015 Journal of Ginseng Research Vol.39 No.3

Background: Minor ginsenosides, those having low content in ginseng, have higher pharmacological activities. To obtain minor ginsenosides, the biotransformation of American ginseng protopanaxadiol (PPD)-ginsenoside was studied using special ginsenosidase type-I from Aspergillus niger g.848. Methods: DEAE (diethylaminoethyl)-cellulose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis were used in enzyme purification, thin-layer chromatography and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were used in enzyme hydrolysis and kinetics; crude enzyme was used in minor ginsenoside preparation from PPD-ginsenoside; the products were separated with silica-gel-column, and recognized by HPLC and NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance). Results: The enzyme molecular weight was 75 kDa; the enzyme firstly hydrolyzed the C-20 position 20- O-b-D-Glc of ginsenoside Rb1, then the C-3 position 3-O-b-D-Glc with the pathway Rb1/Rd/F2/C-K. However, the enzyme firstly hydrolyzed C-3 position 3-O-b-D-Glc of ginsenoside Rb2 and Rc, finally hydrolyzed 20-O-L-Ara with the pathway Rb2/C-O/C-Y/C-K, and Rc/C-Mc1/C-Mc/C-K. According to enzyme kinetics, Km and Vmax of MichaeliseMenten equation, the enzyme reaction velocities on ginsenosides were Rb1 > Rb2 > Rc > Rd. However, the pure enzyme yield was only 3.1%, so crude enzyme was used for minor ginsenoside preparation. When the crude enzyme was reacted in 3% American ginseng PPD-ginsenoside (containing Rb1, Rb2, Rc, and Rd) at 45C and pH 5.0 for 18 h, the main products were minor ginsenosides C-Mc, C-Y, F2, and C-K; average molar yields were 43.7% for CMc from Rc, 42.4% for C-Y from Rb2, and 69.5% for F2 and C-K from Rb1 and Rd. Conclusion: Four monomer minor ginsenosides were successfully produced (at low-cost) from the PPDginsenosides using crude enzyme.