[Role of mitochondrial autophagy and the curative effect of rehmannia glutinosa leaves total glycoside capsules on nucleos(t)ide drug-induced renal injury]

Objective: To study the curative effect of rehmannia glutinosa leaves total glycoside capsules and the role of mitochondrial autophagy on nucleos(t)ide drug-induced renal injury. Methods: Adefovir dipivoxil (ADV) was used to construct a hepatitis B virus (HBV) transgenic mouse model for renal injury. Renal function was measured in each group at one and two weeks of modeling. Mitochondrial autophagy indicators were measured at two weeks of modeling in renal tissue. Transmission electron microscopy was used to detect mitochondrial autophagy phenomena in renal tissue. The model was established for two weeks. Mouse with renal injury were treated with rehmannia glutinosa leaves total glycoside capsules or isotonic saline for eight weeks by intragastric administration. Renal function was measured. Renal tissue morphology was observed. Mitochondrial autophagy indicators were detected in renal tissue. The protective effect of different concentrations of verbascoside (the main active ingredient of rehmannia glutinosa capsule) was observed on HK-2 cell damage induced by ADV. HK-2 cells were divided into control, ADV, and ADV plus verbascoside groups. The effects of verbascoside at different times and concentrations were observed on the HK-2 mitochondrial autophagy indicators. Fifty patients with chronic hepatitis B were collected who presented with renal injury after treatment with nucleos(t)ide analogs. The random number method was used to divide 29 cases into a control group that received conventional treatment. The treatment group of 21 cases was treated with rehmannia glutinosa leaves total glycoside capsules on the basis of the control group. Serum creatinine (Scr) and urinary protein were detected at eight weeks.The χ(2) test or t-test was used for statistical analysis. Results: Compared with the control group, two weeks of modeling in the ADV group induced renal function injury in HBV mice. The expression of autophagy indicators was higher in the renal tissue of the ADV group than that of the control group. Transmission electron microscopy had revealed mitochondrial autophagy in the renal tissue of the ADV group. Compared with the control group, the renal function of HBV mice treated with rehmannia glutinosa leaves total glycoside capsules improved for two months, and the expressions of autophagy indicators were down-regulated.Verbascoside promoted proliferation in ADV-damaged HK-2 cells, and the expression of autophagy indicators was down-regulated compared with the ADV alone group. In 50 patients with renal function injury, the urinary protein improvement was significantly superior in the treatment group than that in the control group, with eighteen and three cases being effective and ineffective in the treatment group and 12 and 17 cases being effective and ineffective in the control group, with a statistically significant difference (χ(2) = 9.975 0, P = 0.001 6). Serum creatinine was decreased in the treatment group compared with the control group, with 11 and 10 cases being effective and ineffective in the treatment group and 12 and 17 cases being effective and ineffective in the control group, with no statistically significant difference (χ(2) = 0.593 5, P = 0.441 1). Conclusion: Rehmannia glutinosa leaves total glycoside capsule can improve the nucleos(t)ide drug-induced renal function injury in chronic hepatitis B, possibly playing a role via inhibiting PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitochondrial autophagy.

Discovery of New Isotopes ^{160}Os and ^{156}W: Revealing Enhanced Stability of the N=82 Shell Closure on the Neutron-Deficient Side

Using the fusion-evaporation reaction ^{106}Cd(^{58}Ni,4n)^{160}Os and the gas-filled recoil separator SHANS, two new isotopes _{76}^{160}Os and _{74}^{156}W have been identified. The α decay of ^{160}Os, measured with an α-particle energy of 7080(26) keV and a half-life of 201_{-37}^{+58}  μs, is assigned to originate from the ground state. The daughter nucleus ^{156}W is a β^{+} emitter with a half-life of 291_{-61}^{+86}  ms. The newly measured α-decay data allow us to derive α-decay reduced widths (δ^{2}) for the N=84 isotones up to osmium (Z=76), which are found to decrease with increasing atomic number above Z=68. The reduction of δ^{2} is interpreted as evidence for the strengthening of the N=82 shell closure toward the proton drip line, supported by the increase of the neutron-shell gaps predicted in theoretical models.

[Reoperation rate and related factors in patients with Crohn's disease]

Objective: To analyze the cumulative reoperation rate of postoperative Crohn's disease (CD) patients and investigate the operation reasons and the effects of drugs on surgical recurrence. Method: Patients with Crohn's disease who had undergone intestinal resection from January 2000 to March 2020 in Peking Union Medical College Hospital were enrolled. Patients were divided into reoperation and non-reoperation group according to whether they had a second operation. And the basic characteristics and the reasons for the primary and second operation were retrospectively analyzed. Meanwhile, patients were divided into low-risk reoperation group and high-risk group based on risk stratification. Kaplan-Meier methods were performed to analyze the cumulative surgical recurrence rate and to compare the recurrence rate in different risk stratification and chi-square tests was used to analyze the effects of different maintenance drugs on reoperation. Result: A total of 160 patients were enrolled in the study. There were 110 males and 50 females, and the age at first operation was (35.6±14.1) years old. There were 40 patients in the reoperation group and 120 patients in the non-reoperation group. According to univariate analysis, the proportion of male gender(P=0.030), penetrating phenotype(P<0.001), history of appendectomy before the primary surgery(P=0.035) and no postoperative maintenance therapy (P<0.001) were higher in surgical recurrence group. In terms of the operation reasons, intestinal obstruction accounted for the highest proportion in the primary operation (26.9%, 43/160), while the intestinal fistula was the most common reason for reoperation (42.5%, 17/40). After the primary surgery, the cumulative reoperation rates at 1, 3, 5 and 10 years were 5.9% (9 cases), 12.3% (17 cases), 21.8% (25 cases) and 37.6% (34 cases), respectively. The ten years cumulative reoperation rate of the high-risk group was 42.8% (31 cases), which was much higher than that of low-risk group (19.8%, 3 cases), and the difference was statistically significant (P=0.006). There was no statistically significant difference in the surgical recurrence rate of low-risk group patients(P=0.076)whether maintenance therapies were added or not, while the recurrence rate of high-risk group patients who did not receive maintenance therapy was higher than those who received immunosuppressant with or without (±) 5-aminosalicylic acid (ASA) (P=0.001) and biological agent±5-ASA (P=0.001), and the difference was statistically significant. Conclusion: Patients with CD are still at risk of reoperation after surgery. Immunosuppressive agents and biologics can prevent patients from reoperation in high-risk groups.

New α-Emitting Isotope ^{214}U and Abnormal Enhancement of α-Particle Clustering in Lightest Uranium Isotopes

A new α-emitting isotope ^{214}U, produced by the fusion-evaporation reaction ^{182}W(^{36}Ar,4n)^{214}U, was identified by employing the gas-filled recoil separator SHANS and the recoil-α correlation technique. More precise α-decay properties of even-even nuclei ^{216,218}U were also measured in the reactions of ^{40}Ar, ^{40}Ca beams with ^{180,182,184}W targets. By combining the experimental data, improved α-decay reduced widths δ^{2} for the even-even Po-Pu nuclei in the vicinity of the magic neutron number N=126 are deduced. Their systematic trends are discussed in terms of the N_{p}N_{n} scheme in order to study the influence of proton-neutron interaction on α decay in this region of nuclei. It is strikingly found that the reduced widths of ^{214,216}U are significantly enhanced by a factor of two as compared with the N_{p}N_{n} systematics for the 84≤Z≤90 and N<126 even-even nuclei. The abnormal enhancement is interpreted by the strong monopole interaction between the valence protons and neutrons occupying the π1f_{7/2} and ν1f_{5/2} spin-orbit partner orbits, which is supported by the large-scale shell model calculation.

[Veracity of using a visual chart with a testing distance of 2.5 meters for measurement of distance visual acuity in teenagers]

Objective: To compare the results of visual acuity testing for teenagers with visual acuity charts designed at 2.5-meter and 5-meter distances, and to investigate the accuracy of the 2.5-meter visual acuity chart. Methods: It was a self-control study. A total of 227 teenagers (454 eyes) with ametropia who came to the ophthalmic clinic of Peking Union Medical College Hospital from March 2019 to September 2019 were included. There were 123 males and 104 females aged (11.74±3.26) years. The vision examiners were trained in the same testing environment and passed the consistency test. Distance visual acuity of all participants was tested with charts designed at 2.5 meters and 5 meters in a 10-minute interval. According to the age (7-9, 10-12, 13-15 and 16-18 years old) and visual acuity (1.00-0.52, 0.40-0.30 and 0.22-0.10), the results of two kinds of visual acuity charts were compared. The testing order of the two visual charts was randomly determined. The visual acuity results were converted into logMAR values and compared. Paried t-student test was used to compare the difference between two charts, and Pearson correlation test was used to explore the correlation between the results of two charts. Results: The visual acuity of the right eye was 0.37±0.24 (logMAR) at 2.5 meters and 0.50±0.26 (logMAR) at 5 meters. The distance visual acuity measured with the 2.5-meter visual acuity chart was better (t=16.19, P<0.01). The visual acuity of the left eye was 0.36±0.23 (logMAR) at 2.5 meters and 0.45±0.23 (logMAR) at 5 meters (t=11.71, P<0.01). The differences between two charts were larger among teenagers with lower visual acuity (r=0.387,P<0.01). Conclusion: Under the same test conditions, the distance visual acuity measured with a 2.5-meter chart was significantly better than a 5-meter chart. The visual acuity chart designed at 2.5 meters was not an appropriate tool to measure distance vision in adolescents. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2021, 57: 122-125).

[Association of age-related white matter hyperintensity with brain atrophy and cognitive impairment in patients with Parkinson's disease]

Objective: To investigate the association of age-related white matter hyperintensity (WMH) with brain atrophy and cognitive impairment in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). Methods: Consecutive samples of a prospective PD cohort with complete 3-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging in the Department of Movement Disorders in Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, from October 2018 to August 2019 was retrospectively analyzed. Cognition was evaluated by Mini-Mental State Scale (MMSE) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). The severity of WMH was semi-quantitatively measured by Fazekas scale (0-6 points), and the mean cortical thickness and thalamus volume were calculated by FreeSurfer software. The demographic and disease characteristics, the severity of WMH, the mean cortical thickness and thalamus volume were respectively compared between PD patients with and without dementia. Moreover, univariate and multivariate generalized linear models were used to analyze the correlation of the severity of WMH with brain atrophy and MoCA. Results: A total of 225 patients with PD were included in the study, with a median age of 66 years old. Comparisons between groups suggested that patients with dementia were with severer WMH, older, and had lower levels of serum cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein and more reduced mean cortical thickness than those without dementia (all P<0.05), but no significant difference in the thalamus volume was found between the two groups. The generalized linear model showed that the cognitive impairment of PD patients was significantly correlated with WMH (β=-0.021, 95%CI:-0.040--0.002, P=0.032), but independent of age, cortical thickness, and levels of serum cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein. Conclusion: WMH may worsen PD cognitive impairment independent of brain atrophy. Clinical prevention and treatment of cerebral small vessel disease may have protective effects on cognitive function in patients with PD.

[Predictive value of neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio on myocardial injury in severe COVID-19 patients]

Objective: To explore the predictive value of neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) on myocardial injury in severe COVID-19 patients. Methods: In this single-center retrospective cohort study, we collected and analyzed data form 133 severe COVID-19 patients admitted to Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University (Eastern District) from January 30 to February 18, 2020. Patients were divided into myocardial injury group (n=29) and non-myocardial injury group (n=104) according the presence or absence of myocardial injury. The general information of patients was collected by electronic medical record database system. All patients were followed up for 30 days, the organ injury and/or dysfunction were monitored, the in-hospital death was compared between the two groups, and the disease progression was reevaluated and classified at 14 days after initial hospitalization. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors of myocardial injury in severe COVID-19 patients. The ROC of NLR was calculated, and the AUC was determined to estimate the optimal cut-off value of NLR for predicting myocardial injury in severe cases of COVID-19. Results: There was statistical significance in age, respiratory frequency, systolic blood pressure, symptoms of dyspnea, previous chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, coronary heart disease history, white blood cells, neutrophils, lymphocytes, platelets, C-reactive protein, platelet counting, aspartate transaminase, albumin, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, urea, estimated glomerular filtration rate, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, D-dimer, CD3⁺, CD4⁺, partial pressure of oxygen, partial pressure of CO₂, blood oxygen saturation, other organ injury, clinical outcome and prognosis between patients with myocardial injury and without myocardial injury (all P<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that NLR was a risk factor for myocardial injury (OR=1.066，95%CI 1.021-1.111，P=0.033). ROC curve showed that NLR predicting AUC of myocardial injury in severe COVID-19 patients was 0.774 (95%CI 0.694-0.842), the optimal cut-off value of NLR was 5.768, with a sensitivity of 82.8%, and specificity of 69.5%. Conclusion: NLR may be used to predict myocardial injury in severe COVID-19 patients.

Short-Lived α-Emitting Isotope ^{222}Np and the Stability of the N=126 Magic Shell

A new, very short-lived neutron-deficient isotope ^{222}Np was produced in the complete-fusion reaction ^{187}Re(^{40}Ar,5n)^{222}Np, and observed at the gas-filled recoil separator SHANS. The new isotope ^{222}Np was identified by employing a recoil-α correlation measurement, and six α-decay chains were established for it. The decay properties of ^{222}Np with E_{α}=10016(33)  keV and T_{1/2}=380_{-110}^{+260}  ns were determined experimentally. The α-decay systematics of Np isotopes is improved by adding the new data for ^{222}Np, which validates the N=126 shell effect in Np isotopes. The evolution of the N=126 shell closure is discussed in the neutron-deficient nuclei up to Np within the framework of α-decay reduced width.

[Relationship between plasma fibroblast growth factor-23 and subclinical cardiovascular damages in children with primary hypertension]

Objective: To examine the plasma fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) concentration in children with primary hypertension and to investigate the association between plasma FGF-23 and subclinical cardiovascular damages,and to identify its predictive value for diagnosis. Methods: With prospective study,77 patients (61 males and 16 females) who were diagnosed as primary hypertension with the average age of (11.8±2.2) years were enrolled with informed consent in Children's Hospital,Capital Institute of Pediatrics from October 2016 to December 2017. Carotid wall intima-media thickness (cIMT) measured by Doppler ultrasound and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) identified by echocardiography were assessed as parameters of subclinical cardiovascular damages. Patients were divided into increased cIMT group (n=18) and normal cIMT group (n=46) (64 patients with complete data of cIMT). According to left ventricular geometry,patients were divided into LVH group (n=27) and normal geometry group (n=50). Concentration of plasma FGF-23 was detected in all children by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay test. Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare plasma levels of FGF-23 between groups. Kendall's tau-b correlation coefficient was used to analyze the correlation between plasma FGF-23 and cIMT/LVH. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to analyze the value of plasma FGF-23 in the prediction of subclinical cardiovascular damage. Results: The concentration of plasma FGF-23 in the increased cIMT group was higher than that in the normal cIMT group (55.6 (46.2,63.5) vs. 48.6 (39.4, 57.3) ×10(3) RU/L, Z=-2.143, P=0.032) . Also, plasma FGF-23 showed positive correlation with cIMT(r=0.222, P=0.032). According to ROC curve analysis,the cutoff value of plasma FGF-23 for prediction of increased cIMT was 53.9×10(3) RU/L (55.6% sensitivity and 71.7% specificity). The concentration of plasma FGF-23 in the LVH group was significantly higher than that in normal geometry group (55.0 (46.8, 65.7) vs. 48.2 (39.5, 56.0)×10(3) RU/L, Z=-2.375, P=0.018). And,plasma FGF-23 was correlated positively with LVH (r=0.224, P=0.018). The concentration of plasma FGF-23 in patients with concentric remodeling (n=10) was significantly higher than that of the normal geometry group (56.9 (49.6, 66.3) vs. 48.2 (39.5,56.0) ×10(3) RU/L, Z=-2.093, P=0.036). According to ROC curve analysis,the cutoff value of plasma FGF-23 for prediction of LVH was 49.1×10(3) RU/L (70.4% sensitivity and 60.0% specificity). Conclusion: The concentration of plasma FGF-23 in children with primary hypertension was correlated positively with LVH and cIMT and had certain predictive value of diagnosis for subclinical cardiovascular damages.

New Isotope ^{220}Np: Probing the Robustness of the N=126 Shell Closure in Neptunium

A new short-lived neutron-deficient isotope ^{220}Np was synthesized in the fusion-evaporation reaction ^{185}Re(^{40}Ar,5n)^{220}Np at the gas-filled recoil separator SHANS. Based on the measurement of the correlated α-decay chains, the decay properties of ^{220}Np with E_{α}=10040(18)  keV and T_{1/2}=25_{-7}^{+14}  μs were determined, which are in good agreement with theoretical predictions. From the new experimental results coupled with the recently reported α-decay data of ^{219,223}Np, the α-decay systematics for Np isotopes around N=126 was established, which allows us for the first time to test the robustness of the N=126 shell closure in Z=93 Np isotopes. The results also indicate that, in the region of nuclei with Z≥83, the proton drip line has been reached for all odd-Z isotopes up to Np.

[A prognostic model for assessment of outcome of root canal treatment in teeth with pulpitis or apical periodontitis]

OBJECTIVE

To present a prognostic model for evaluating the outcome of root canal treatment in teeth with pulpitis or apical periodontitis 2 years after treatment.

METHODS

The implementation of this study was based on a retrospective study on the 2-year outcome of root canal treatment. A cohort of 360 teeth, which received treatment and review, were chosen to build up the total sample size. In the study, 143 teeth with vital pulp and 217 teeth with apical periodontitis were included. About 67% of the samples were selected randomly to derive a training date set for modeling, and the others were used as validating date set for testing. Logistic regression models were used to produce the prognostic models. The dependent variable was defined as absence of periapical lesion or reduction of periapical lesion. The predictability of the models was evaluated by the area under the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC).

RESULTS

Four predictors were included in model one (absence of apical lesion): pre-operative periapical radiolucency, canal curvature, density and apical extent of root fillings. The AUC was 0.802 (95%CI: 0.744-0.859). And the AUC of the testing date was 0.688. Only the density and apical extent of root fillings were included to present model two (reduction of apical lesion). The AUC of training dates and testing dates were 0.734 (95%CI: 0.612-0.856) and 0.681, respectively. As predicted by model one, the probability of absence of periapical lesion 2 years after endodontic treatment was 90% in pulpitis teeth with sever root-canal curvature and adequate root canal fillings, but 51% in teeth with apical periodontitis. When using prognostic model two for prediction, in teeth with apical periodontitis, the probability of detecting lesion reduction with adequate or inadequate root fillings was 95% and 39% 2 years after treatment.

CONCLUSION

The pre-operative periapical status, canal curvature and quality of root canal treatment could be used to predict the 2-year outcome of root canal treatment.

[Exploratory study of circulating tumor DNA detection in early breast cancer: an analysis of 75 next-generation sequencing results]

Objective: To explore the utility of circulating tumor DNA detection in early breast cancer by using next-generation sequencing. Methods: This exploratory study of circulating tumor DNA detection is for early invasive breast cancer patients treated in Breast Disease Center, Peking University First Hospital from December 2015 to July 2016. Plasma samples were collected and were used to isolate plasma cell-free DNA.Exons or hotspots of 247 cancer related genes were sequenced by next-generation sequencing. Mutations and their correlation with clinic-pathological factors were analyzed. The correlation between mutations and clinic-pathological factors was evaluated by χ(2) test or Fisher's exact test. Results: Seventy-five patients were enrolled in this study. All patients were female and aged from 31 to 88 years with median age of 58 years. All patients' clinic-pathological records were complete. Sixty-four mutations in 18 genes (ALK, BCR, ERBB2, ROS1, PDGFRA, EGFR, FGFR2, CYP1B1, CALR, CASP7, BRAF, FGFR1, FGFR3, MET, NRAS, PTEN, KIT, SOD2) were detected in 47 (62.7%) among all 75 patients.Exons were captured in 10 genes, and mutations in 2 of 3 genes analyzed were clustered. Gene mutations were not correlated with menopausal status, histological type, primary tumor (T), regional lymph nodes (N), TNM stage, histological grade, estrogen receptor status, progesterone receptor status, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 status, Ki-67 and molecular subtype (all P>0.05). Conclusion: Circulating tumor DNA sequencing by next-generation sequencing was useful for detecting breast cancer-related mutations.

[Immediate reconstruction of facial nerve defect using cable grafting of the greater auricualr nerve after parotid cancer resection]

Objective:To evaluate the feasibility of immediate reconstruction of facial nerve defect by using cable grafting of the greater auricular nerve after parotid cancer resection.Method:Clinical data of 11 patients suffering from parotid cancer was reviewed.9 cases were diagnosed as mucoepidermoid carcinoma and 2 cases were adenoid cystic carcinoma. Total parotidectomy and elective neck dissection were performed before cable grafting of the greater auricular nerve was interposed between stumps of facial nerve trunk and its branches. The facial nerve electromyogram and symmetry of mimetic musculature were evaluated. The House Brackmann (HB) grading system was used to assess the functional outcome of facial nerve rehabilitation. 8 patients received 50-65 Gy postoperative radiotherapy. The follow-up time ranged from 8 months to 36 months with the mean time of 12 months.Result:At all function oriented facial nerve reconstructed region, satisfactory orbicularis oculi muscle function in 7 patients was achieved (7/7); 5 patients obtained seeable and almost symmetric frowning (5/7); 9 patients obtained obvious nasolabial groove and satisfactory rest symmetry of the mouth corners (9/9); 4 patients got better facial nerve function restoration when it was 3 months after radiotherapy. Nine patients got HB grade Ⅱ, and 2 patients got HB grade Ⅲ facial nerve function restoration. Facial nerve electromyogram revealed weaker amplitude nerve conduction in 9 patients of HB grade Ⅱ than the conduction at its corresponding normal side.Conclusion:Cable grafting of the greater auricular nerve is a feasible candidate for the immediate reconstruction of facial nerve defect. Free nerve transplantation is probably not a contraindication for postoperative radiotherapy in the parotid region.

[The significances of peripheral neutrophils CD(55) and myeloperoxidase expression in patients with myeloperoxidase-specific anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody associated vasculitis]

Objective: To investigate the expression of CD(55) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) on neutrophils in patients with MPO-specific anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody associated vasculitis(MPO-AAV), and analyze the relationship between the expression and clinical manifestation. Methods: Forty untreated patients with active MPO-AAV (patient group) and 30 healthy volunteers (control group) were enrolled in this study. The CD(55) on neutrophils and both membrane and cytoplasmic MPO were detected by flow cytometry. Serum fragment-from the activated complement factor B(Ba) and MPO were measured by ELISA. The clinical activity of vasculitis was valued by Birmingham vasculitis activity score-version 3(BVAS-V3). The significance of laboratory data was evaluated by Spearman correlation test and multivariate linear regression analysis. Results: (1)The mean fluorescence intensity(MFI) of CD(55) expressed on neutrophils was significantly higher than that in control group[4 068.6±2 306.0 vs 2 999.5±1 504.9, P=0.033]. Similar results of serum MPO and Ba in patient group were found compared to controls [500.0(381.0, 612.7) IU/L vs 286.9(225.5, 329.1) IU/L, P<0.001; 35.2(25.2, 79.5) ng/L vs 18.0(15.0, 28.0) ng/L, P<0.001], respectively. However, MIF of cytoplasmic MPO in patients was significantly lower than that of control group(1 577.1±1 175.9 vs 3 105.3±2 323.0, P=0.003) . (2) In patient group, cytoplasmic intensity of MPO was negatively associated with the serum levels of MPO(r=-0.710, P<0.001) and Ba (r=-0.589, P=0.001). Moreover, serum MPO was positively associated with serum Ba(r=0.691, P<0.001). Membrane intensity of CD(55) on neutrophils was positively correlated with patient age (r=0.514, P=0.001), C reactive protein (r=0.376, P=0.018), peripheral neutrophils count (r=0.485, P=0.001) and BVAS-V3 (r=0.484, P=0.002), whereas negative correlation between membrane CD(55) and disease duration was seen (r=-0.403, P=0.01). (3) The result of multiple linear regression analysis showed there was statistically significant positive correlation between MFI of CD(55) expressed on neutrophils and BVAS-V3 (β=0.001, P=0.027). Conclusions: In MPO-AAV, CD(55) expression on neutrophils is markedly enhanced, which is one of the independent risk factors related to disease activity. It might protect neutrophils from attacking AAV, CD(55) expression on neutrophils is markedly enhanced, which is one of the independent risk factors related to disease activity. It might protect neutrophils from attacking by complement alternative pathway. Activated neutrophils release more MPO and lysosome to intensify the inflammation reaction and aggravate the disease. Thus CD(55) might become a new potential target for the treatment of this disease in the future.

Association between TXNRD1 polymorphisms and anti-tuberculosis drug-induced hepatotoxicity in a prospective study

Anti-tuberculosis drug-induced hepatotoxicity (ATDH) is a serious adverse reaction to anti-tuberculosis (TB) treatment. Thioredoxin reductase 1 (TXNRD1), encoded by the TXNRD1 gene, is an important enzyme involved in oxidant challenge. TXNRD1 plays a key role in regulating cell growth and transformation, and protects cells against oxidative damage. We investigated the association between TXNRD1 polymorphisms and ATDH susceptibility. In this prospective study, 280 newly diagnosed TB patients were followed-up for 3 months after beginning anti-TB therapy. Tag single-nucleotide polymorphisms (tag-SNPs) of TXNRD1 were selected using Haploview 4.2 based on the HapMap database of the Chinese Han in Beijing (CHB) panel. Genotyping was performed using the MassARRAY platform. Of the 280 patients enrolled in this study, 33 were lost to follow-up, 24 had ATDH, and 223 were free from ATDH. After adjusting for sex, age, smoking status, and body mass index, there were no significant differences in the allele and genotype frequency distributions of TXNRD1 SNPs between the ATDH and non-ATDH groups (all P > 0.05). The haplotype analysis showed that haplotype TCAGCC was associated with an increased risk of ATDH susceptibility [P = 0.024, OR (95%CI) = 6.273 (1.023-38.485)]. Further stratified analyses showed that the haplotype TCAGCC was associated with ATDH susceptibility in female subjects [P = 0.036, OR (95%CI) = 5.711 (0.917-35.560)] and non-smokers [P = 0.029, OR (95%CI) = 6.008 (0.971-37.158)]. Our results suggest that TXNRD1 variants may favor ATDH susceptibility in females and non-smokers. Further studies are required to verify this association.

[Expression analysis of a transformer gene in Daphnia pulex after RNAi]

In order to explore the importance of the transformer (tra) gene in reproductive mode switching in Daphnia pulex, we studied the effect of silencing of this gene using RNA interference (RNAi). We obtained Dptra dsRNA by constructing and using a dsRNA expression vector and transcription method in vitro. D. pulex individuals in different reproductive modes were treated by soaking in a solution of Dptra dsRNA. We then assayed the expression of the endogenous Dptra mRNA after RNAi treatment using RT-PCR and obtained the suppression ratio. Expression of the tra gene in the RNAi groups was down-regulated compared with the controls after 16 h (p < 0.05). We also analyzed the effect of RNAi on the expression of the TRA protein using Western blot, which showed that the expression level of the TRA protein was reduced after RNAi treatment. Our experimental results showed that soaking of D. pulex adults in tra-specific dsRNA transcribed in vitro can specifically reduce the level of tra mRNA and also reduce the expression of the TRA protein, demonstrating effective in vivo silencing of the tra gene.

[Protective effect and mechanism of ischemic postconditioning in rats underwent myocardial ischemia/ reperfusion injury]

OBJECTIVE

This study is designed to observe the effect of ischemic postconditioning in rats underwent acute myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury and to investigate the related mechanism.

METHODS

A total of 30 SD rats were randomly divided into sham operation group (control group, n=10), ischemia/reperfusion group (IR group, n=10) and ischemic postconditioning group (PC group, n=10) based on random number table. Rats in IR group underwent 30 minutes myocardial ischemia by occlusion of the proximal portion of left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery followed by 2 hours reperfusion. In control group, there was no IR intervention. In PC group, at the start of reperfusion, three cycles of 30 seconds reperfusion and 30 seconds LAD reocclusion preceded the 2 hours of reperfusion. The hemodynamic values were measured via a cannula inserted into the right common carotid artery.The area at risk was assessed by Evans blue staining and the infarct size as measured by TTC staining.Western blot and Real time PCR were respectively used to assess the expression of predicted target gene Bim and microRNA-214(miR-214) in the area at risk at the end of 2 hours reperfusion.

RESULTS

(1) The hemodynamic monitoring in different groups: the left ventricular systolic pressure (LVSP), ±dp/dtmax, and heart rate of IR group and PC group were lower than those of control group, but left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) was higher than that of control group (all P<0.05). The LVSP and ±dp/dtmax of PC group were higher than those of IR group, and LVEDP was lower than that of IR group (all P<0.05). (2) Myocardial ischemia area and infarction range in different groups: there was no statistically difference in the proportion of area at risk (AAR) in left ventricle (LV) (AAR/LV) between PC group and IP group ((27.00 + 7.55) % vs. (26.67 + 11.68) %, P>0.05). The proportion of infarct size in the area at risk(IS/AAR) of PC group was lower than that of IR group((30.67±3.51)% vs. (48.67±4.62)%, P<0.05). (3) The expression of Bim protein in rats ischemic myocardial tissue in different groups: the expression of Bim protein in ischemic myocardial tissue of IR group was higher than that of control group (2.34±0.15 vs. 0.75±0.05, P<0.05), and that of PC group was lower than IR group (1.25±0.14 vs. 2.34±0.15, P<0.05). (4) The expression of of miR-214 in rats ischemic myocardial tissue in different groups: the expression of miR-214 of IR group was lower than that of control group(0.20±0.04 vs. 1.00, P<0.01), and that of PC group was higer than that of IR group (0.85±0.20 vs. 0.20±0.04, P<0.01). There was no statistically difference between PC group and control group (P>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Postconditioning could significantly decrease the ischemia/reperfusion injury by reducing the infarct size and improve cardiac function in this in vivo rat model. The expression of Bim in postconditioning group is significantly depressed, which may play an important role in the protection process of postconditioning, and the downregulation of Bim might be mediated with the increase of miR-214 expression.

[Expression of mRNA and protein of Klotho gene in placental tissue of macrosomia and its relationship with birth weight of neonates]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the the expression of Klotho mRNA and protein in placenta of macrosomia and its relationship with the birth weight of neonates.

METHODS

The cases were from November 2014 to March 2015 in Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, divided into 4 groups: the gestational diabetes with macrosomia group (GM), the gestational diabetes with normal birth weight group (GN), the normal pregnancy with macrosomia group (NM) and the normal pregnancy with normal birth weight group (NN). Klotho mRNA and protein expression in the placenta were detected by immunohistochemistry SP method, real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR and western blot, respectively, and were compared among the 4 groups.

RESULTS

(1) Immunohistochemical detection showed the positive rate of Klotho protein was significantly higher in the placenta of GM (93%,28/30) than in the GN (73%,22/30; P<0.05). The positive rate was significantly higher in the placenta of NM (97%,29/30) than in the NN (80%,24/30; P<0.05). (2) Real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR showed the Klotho mRNA expression was significantly higher in the placenta of GM (4.3 ± 3.1) than in the GN (2.1 ± 2.4; P<0.05). The Klotho mRNA expression was also significantly higher in the placenta of NM (4.8± 3.4) than in the NN (2.6± 3.3; P<0.05). (3) Western blot showed the Klotho protein expression was significantly higher in the placenta of GM (1.27±0.90) than in the GN (0.64±0.24; P<0.05). It was also significantly higher in the placenta of NM (2.51±3.52) than in the NN (0.77±0.37; P<0.05). (4) There were no significant differences in the expression of Klotho mRNA and protein between GM and NM, GN and NN (P>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The up-regulation of Klotho gene may be associated with macrosomia. The relationship is not affected by the complication of gestational diabetes.

[Comparison of periapical radiography and cone-beam computed tomography in endodontic treated teeth for assessment of periapical lesions]

OBJECTIVE

To compare the assessments of the presence or absence and the changes of post-treatment periapical lesions using periapical radiographs versus cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

METHODS

Imaging records were selected from a sample of 233 radiographic examinations (including periapical radiographs and CBCT) of patients with chronic apical periododontitis who received treatment and review in Department of Cariology and Endodontology of Peking University School of Stomatology. After testing the inter-observer and intra-observer agreement, two observers determined the presence or absence of a periapical lesion and classified the changes of lesions in 4 categories: absence, reduction or enlargement of lesion, or uncertain. The differences between CBCT and periapical radiographs in detecting the presence or absence and the changes of periapical lesions were compared using McNemar test and Fisher's exact test respectively.

RESULTS

In the study, 233 teeth were assessed with both periapical radiographs and CBCT images. Periapical lesions were detected in 178 teeth on CBCT scans and in 146 teeth on periapical radiographs. CBCT images revealed a significantly larger number of lesions than were revealed by periapical radiographs (P<0.01). There was disagreement on the changes of lesions between the two radiological technologies in 25% teeth, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

Significant differences were observed between periapical radiographs and CBCT in detection of post-treatment periapical lesions and assessment of the changes of periapical lesions.

Wnt1-overexpressing skeletal myoblasts as an improved cell therapy for cardiac repair following myocardial infarction

AIM

Recent findings highlight the critical role of the Wnt signaling pathway in cardiac repair and stem cell regulation. Our previous study shows that lithium chloride (LiCl) optimizes skeletal myoblast (SkM) for transplantation by mimicking the Wnt/β-catenin signaling activities. In this study, we evaluate the therapeutic potential of SkMs genetically modified with Wnt1gene (Wnt1 SkMs) in a rat model with myocardial infarction (MI).

METHODS

We harvested neonatal SkMs using Wistar rats (1-3-day old) transfected with p-EGFP-C3-Wnt1 plasmid. RT-PCR and immunofluorescence showed a higher expression of Wnt1 in the Wnt1 SkMs. We observed that Wnt1 SkMs increased connexin 43 (Cx43) expression, reduced apoptosis induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and decreased caspase-3 expression via the canonical Wnt signaling pathways compared to the empty vector transfected SkMs (control SkMs). For in vivo studies, the myocardial infarction model was developed in the Wistar rats. The rats were grouped to receive 100 μL basal DMEM without cells or containing 1.5×106SkMs and Wnt1 SkMs. Histological studies revealed improved survival of SkMs, reduced cardiomyocytes apoptosis, and upregulated expression of Cx43 in Wnt1 SkMs therapy group. Echocardiography monitored four weeks after therapy showed improvement of the left ventricular function in rats treated with Wnt1SkMs compared to other groups.

CONCLUSION

Transplantation of Wnt1 SkMs improves rat myocardial function and enhances anti apoptotic properties of both SkMs and cardiomyocytes and upregulation of tissue Cx43 after infarction via the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling activities.

Safety culture in a pharmacy setting using a pharmacy survey on patient safety culture: a cross-sectional study in China

OBJECTIVE

To explore the attitudes and perceptions of patient safety culture for pharmacy workers in China by using a Pharmacy Survey on Patient Safety Culture (PSOPSC), and to assess the psychometric properties of the translated Chinese language version of the PSOPSC.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

PARTICIPANTS

Data were obtained from 20 hospital pharmacies in the southwest part of China.

METHODS

We performed χ(2) test to explore the differences on pharmacy staff in different hospital and qualification levels and countries towards patient safety culture. We also computed descriptive statistics, internal consistency coefficients and intersubscale correlation analysis, and then conducted an exploratory factor analysis. A test-retest was performed to assess reproducibility of the items.

RESULTS

A total of 630 questionnaires were distributed of which 527 were responded to validly (response rate 84%). The positive response rate for each item ranged from 37% to 90%. The positive response rate on three dimensions ('Teamwork', 'Staff Training and Skills' and 'Staffing, Work Pressure and Pace') was higher than that of Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) data (p<0.05). There was a statistical difference in the perception of patient safety culture at different hospital and qualification levels. The internal consistency of the total survey was comparatively satisfied (Cronbach's α=0.89).

CONCLUSIONS

The results demonstrated that among the pharmacy staffs surveyed in China, there was a positive attitude towards patient safety culture in their organisations. Identifying perspectives of patient safety culture from pharmacists in different hospital and qualification levels are important, since this can help support decisions about action to improve safety culture in pharmacy settings. The Chinese translation of the PSOPSC questionnaire (V.2012) applied in our study is acceptable.

Saikosaponin-d, a novel SERCA inhibitor, induces autophagic cell death in apoptosis-defective cells

Autophagy is an important cellular process that controls cells in a normal homeostatic state by recycling nutrients to maintain cellular energy levels for cell survival via the turnover of proteins and damaged organelles. However, persistent activation of autophagy can lead to excessive depletion of cellular organelles and essential proteins, leading to caspase-independent autophagic cell death. As such, inducing cell death through this autophagic mechanism could be an alternative approach to the treatment of cancers. Recently, we have identified a novel autophagic inducer, saikosaponin-d (Ssd), from a medicinal plant that induces autophagy in various types of cancer cells through the formation of autophagosomes as measured by GFP-LC3 puncta formation. By computational virtual docking analysis, biochemical assays and advanced live-cell imaging techniques, Ssd was shown to increase cytosolic calcium level via direct inhibition of sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) ATPase pump, leading to autophagy induction through the activation of the Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent kinase kinase-AMP-activated protein kinase-mammalian target of rapamycin pathway. In addition, Ssd treatment causes the disruption of calcium homeostasis, which induces endoplasmic reticulum stress as well as the unfolded protein responses pathway. Ssd also proved to be a potent cytotoxic agent in apoptosis-defective or apoptosis-resistant mouse embryonic fibroblast cells, which either lack caspases 3, 7 or 8 or had the Bax-Bak double knockout. These results provide a detailed understanding of the mechanism of action of Ssd, as a novel autophagic inducer, which has the potential of being developed into an anti-cancer agent for targeting apoptosis-resistant cancer cells.

First result from the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station: precision measurement of the positron fraction in primary cosmic rays of 0.5-350 GeV

A precision measurement by the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station of the positron fraction in primary cosmic rays in the energy range from 0.5 to 350 GeV based on 6.8 × 10(6) positron and electron events is presented. The very accurate data show that the positron fraction is steadily increasing from 10 to ∼ 250  GeV, but, from 20 to 250 GeV, the slope decreases by an order of magnitude. The positron fraction spectrum shows no fine structure, and the positron to electron ratio shows no observable anisotropy. Together, these features show the existence of new physical phenomena.

Asynchronous control of vortex-induced acoustic cavity resonance using imbedded piezo-electric actuators

This paper presents an experimental investigation of the control of a vortex-induced acoustic cavity resonance from flow over a bluff body using embedded piezo-ceramic actuators in order to alter the resonant flow-acoustic interactions. The action of the actuators was asynchronous. Experiments were mainly conducted at the flow velocity of acoustic resonance, where the vortex shedding frequency from the upstream bluff body approached the frequency of the first acoustic mode of two downstream cavities. The fluctuating acoustic pressure was measured using a microphone. The perturbed flow field around the bluff body was monitored using two single hot wire anemometers and one X-wire. It was found that the induced transverse vibrations were effective to reduce the acoustic resonance. The cavity sound pressure level at resonance was reduced by 8.2 dB in presence of actuation. The physics behind the control mechanism is discussed.

Usefulness of low-dose CT in the detection of pulmonary metastasis of gestational trophoblastic tumours

AIM

To determine whether a low-dose spiral chest computed tomography (CT) examination could replace standard-dose chest CT in detecting pulmonary metastases in patients with gestational trophoblastic tumour (GTT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a prospective investigation, 67 chest CT examinations of 39 GTT patients were undertaken. All the patients underwent CT examinations using standard-dose (150 mAs, pitch 1, standard reconstruction algorithm) and low-dose (40 mAs, pitch 2, bone reconstruction algorithm) protocols. Two radiologists interpreted images independently. A metastasis was defined as a nodule within lung parenchyma that could not be attributed to a pulmonary vessel. The number of metastases detected with each protocol was recorded. The size of each lesion was measured and categorized as <5, 5-9.9, and > or = 10 mm. Wilcoxon's signed rank test was used to assess the difference between the numbers of lesion detected by the two protocols.

RESULTS

The CT dose index (CTDI) for the standard-dose and low-dose CT protocols was 10.4 mGy and 1.4 mGy, respectively. One thousand, six hundred, and eighty-two metastases were detected by standard-dose CT, and 1460 lesions by the low-dose protocol. The numbers detected by low-dose CT were significantly less than those detected by standard-dose CT (Z=-3.776, p<0.001), especially for nodules smaller than 5mm (Z=-4.167, p<0.001). However, the disease staging and risk score of the patients were not affected by use of the low-dose protocol.

CONCLUSION

Low-dose chest CT can be used as a staging and follow-up procedure for patients with GTT.

A preclinical study of cellular immunotherapy redirected by bispecific antibodies in uterine cell lines and primary cancer cells

15044

Background: Cytokine induced killer cells (CIKs) are ex-vivo activated and expanded CD8+ natural killer T cells that have been shown to have cytotoxic activity against cancers in randomized clinical trials. We determined the cytotoxic activity of CIK cells against endometrioid and serous papillary (UPSC) uterine cancer cell lines and evaluated the ability of Trastuzumab and Her2xCD3 bispecific antibodies to enhance CIK-mediated cytotoxicity in Her2/neu expressing uterine cancer cells. Methods: The cytotoxicity of CIKs was quantified by 4-hour 51Cr release assays against uterine cell lines HEC-1A (endometrioid) and SPEC-2 (UPSC). Bispecific antibodies against Her2/neu (BSAbHer2) were designed using chemical conjugation methods. Results: Using FACS analysis, we found that the population of CD3+ CD8+ T cells increased from 24% to 56% over 21 days, while the CD3+ CD56+ T cells increased from 7% to 14%. Immunofluorescence microscopy revealed that both cell lines overexpressed Her2/neu. Cytotoxicity assays were performed at effector to target (E:T) ratios of 10:1, 20:1, 40:1 and 100:1 with increasing E:T ratio correlating directly with mean percent specific lysis. At the 100:1 E:T ratio, the mean percent lysis of CIKs against HEC-1A and SPEC-2 cells was 38.8% (±0.21) and 35% (±3.4), respectively. Trastuzumab did not affect the cytotoxic activity of CIKs. However, BSAbHer2 redirection significantly enhanced the cytotoxicity of CIKs against HEC-1A and SPEC-2 cells with a mean percent lysis of 66.3% (±1.0) and 50% (±2.7), respectively. Anti-NKG2D antibodies significantly reduced CIK activity by 49% and 47% in HEC-1A and SPEC-2 cells, respectively. The effects of CIK on advanced uterine cancers were demonstrated using our in vivo bioluminescence imaging system. Conclusion: CIK cells have cytotoxic activity both endometriod and UPSC cell lines. Redirection by BSAbHer2 significantly increased CIK-cell mediated cytotoxicity against Her2/neu expressing cell lines. The mechanism of CIK cytotoxicity appears to be partly mediated by the NKG2D receptor.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Chinese medicinal herbs for measles

BACKGROUND

Measles is an infectious disease caused by Morbillivirus. Chinese physicians believe that medicinal herbs are effective in alleviating symptoms and preventing complications. Chinese herbal medicines are dispensed according to the particular symptoms.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness and possible adverse events of Chinese medicinal herbs in treating measles.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Clinical Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library Issue 4, 2005); MEDLINE (1966 to June 2005); EMBASE (1980 to June 2005); the Chinese Biomedical Database (1976 to June 2005); VIP Information (1989 to June 2005); China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) (1994 to June 2005); and the metaRegister of Controlled Trials was searched for ongoing trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in which patients with measles without complications were treated with Chinese medicinal herbs were included.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

The primary outcome measure was death from any cause. The secondary outcome measure was improvement of overall symptoms. The tertiary outcome measure was fever clearance time.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified 28 trials which claimed to use random allocation. Nineteen study authors were contacted by telephone and we discovered that the allocation methods they had used were not actually randomised. Three studies were excluded because the patients experienced complications. We were unable to contact the remaining six authors. These require further assessment and have been allocated to the 'Studies awaiting assessment' section.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Two authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data. We interviewed by telephone the study authors for missing information regarding random allocation of the study process. Some trials allocated the participants according to the sequence they were admitted to the trials, that is to say, by using a pseudo-random allocation method. None of the trials concealed the allocation or blinding method. We hope future randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in this field will be conducted.

Role of renal nerve in cardioprotection provided by renal ischemic preconditioning in anesthetized rabbits

The effects of renal ischemic preconditioning (RIP) on ischemia-reperfused myocardium were examined in the urethane-anesthetized rabbit to determine whether RIP may provide cardioprotection and to observe the role of the renal nerve in such condition. The results obtained are as follows: (1) During 45 min myocardial ischemia and subsequent 180 min reperfusion, blood pressure, heart rate and myocardial oxygen consumption decreased progressively. Epicardial electrographic ST-segment was elevated significantly in the period of ischemia and returned to the baseline gradually in the course of reperfusion. The myocardial infarct size occupied 55.80 +/- 1.25% of the area at risk. (2) RIP significantly reduced the myocardial infarct size to 36.51 +/- 2.80% (P < 0.01), indicating the cardioprotective effect of such an intervention. (3) Renal nerve section (RNS) completely abolished the cardioprotection afforded by RIP, though RNS per se did not affect the myocardial infarct size produced by ischemia-reperfusion. (4) During 10 min renal ischemia, the averaged multi-unit discharge rate of the renal afferent was increased from 0.14 +/- 0.08 to 0.65 +/- 0.12 imp/s (P < 0.01). (5) Pretreatment with an adenosine receptor antagonist 8-phenyltheophylline (10 mg/kg) markedly attenuated the discharge rate of the renal afferent induced by transient renal ischemia, implying that adenosine released in ischemic kidney activated the renal afferent. It is suggested that activation of renal afferents by transient renal ischemia-reperfusion plays an important role in the cardioprotection afforded by RIP.

[Ischemic preconditioning reduces cardiomyocytic apoptosis in rabbit heart in vivo]

The effects of ischemia-reperfusion (IR) and ischemic preconditioning (IP) on hemodynamics, epicardial electrography, myocardial infarct size, cardiomyocytic apoptosis and gene proteins involving apoptosis (Fas, Bcl-2 and Bax) were observed in aneasthetized rabbit myocardium. The results are as follows. (1) During ischemia-reperfusion, heart rate, arterial blood pressure and myocardial oxygen consumption were reduced progressively. The epicardial electrographic ST-segment was elevated significantly during ischemia (P<0.001)and recovered to the baseline during reperfusion. (2) The infarct size occupied 57.7+/-2.0% of the ischemic myocardium in IR group while IP reduced the infarct size to 27.7+/-1.5% (P<0.01). (3) DNA ladder pattern of ischemic myocardium was revealed by agrose gel electrophoresis in IR group while it was not found in IP group. Apoptotic cardiomyocytes were sparse within the ischemic myocardium at risk in IP as compared with those in IR heart. Apoptosis rate of the ischemic myocardium from IR and IP groups detected by flow cytometry was 11.2+/-0.4% and 6.35+/-0.2% (P<0.01), respectively. (4) Fas and Bax protein expression in the ischemic myocardium of IR and IP groups was elevated as compared with those in non-ischemic myocardium group (P<0.05). The Fas protein expression of IR group was higher than that of IP group (P<0.05). Bcl-2/Bax ratio of IR group was lower than that in non-ischemic myocardium (P<0.01). From the results, it is suggested that IP decreases cardiomyocytic apoptosis induced by IR and this action is mediated by the reduction of Fas protein expression.

Effects of vascular permeability factor on the permeability of cultured endothelial cells from brain capillaries

The effects of vascular permeability factor (VPF) on the blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability were studied in cultured capillary endothelial cells from bovine brain. When VPF was added to the abluminal or brain side of the BBB, a rapid increase in the BBB permeability was observed. This increase in the BBB permeability is dependent on the concentration of the VPF used and is reversible on removal of the VPF. Contrarily, when VPF was added to the luminal or blood side of the BBB, no increase in the BBB permeability was observed. These results suggest that the receptors for VPF are located on the abluminal side of the BBB.

Effect of Tripterygium Wilfordii on adrenal cortex in rat with adjuvant arthritis

This paper reports the effects of Tripterygium Wilfordii (TW) on adrenal cortex in rats with adjuvant arthritis. Forty rats were divided into 5 groups. Adjuvant arthritis (AA) models were made with complete freund's adjuvant (CFA) in groups I-IV. Each of which was treated with sodium carboxyl methyl cellulose, TW, prednisone and cyclophosphamide respectively. The untreated rats allocated to group V served as normal controls. The swelling of AA markedly subsided in group II, III and IV as compared with group I (P < 0.01), whereas no significant differences were noted among groups II, III and IV (P > 0.05). The obviously increased plasma corticosterone levels and decreased adrenal ascorbic acid levels were observed in group II, whereas decreased plasma corticosterone levels and increased adrenal ascorbic acid levels were noted in group III. There was a striking contrast between groups II and III. The morphological changes of adrenal glands under light microscope revealed hypertrophic adrenal cortices in group II, and atrophic adrenal cortices in group III. The above findings suggest that the effect of promoting production of corticosteroids may be one of the mechanism by which TW can effectively treating autoimmune diseases.

[Clinical analysis of 60 cases of pregnancy with thrombocytopenia]

Sixty cases of pregnancy with thrombocytopenia were analyzed. Bleeding syndrome was found in 36 patients during pregnancy, with 7 cases suffering from massive hemorrhage during delivery and a postpartum hemorrhage rate of 11.7%. There was a negative correlation between the platelet level and the amount of bleeding during gestation and delivery. We suggest that cortico steroid is necessary with a platelet count less than 50 x 10(9)/L in the middle or late trimester of pregnancy to reduce the bleeding tendency during delivery, as well as the incidence of thrombocytopenia in the newborn infant use of excessive platelet transfusion is not encouraged, since it implicates an increase in antibody-induction (PAIG) and probability of C type hepatitis in the recipient. Platelet transfusion should be reserved only for the treatment of serious hemorrhage. There were 53 newborn infants, 7 of whom (13.2%) suffered from thrombocytopenia, with a mortality of 1.9% (7/53) during the perinatal.