[Cutting scheme and clinical application effects of ultrathin thoracodorsal artery perforator flap assisted by color Doppler ultrasound]

Objective: To explore the cutting scheme and clinical application effects of ultrathin thoracodorsal artery perforator flap assisted by color Doppler ultrasound. Methods: This study was a retrospective historical control study. From February 2017 to October 2019, 20 patients who were admitted to the Third Department of Orthopedics of Xingtai General Hospital of North China Medical and Health Group (hereinafter referred to as our department), met the inclusion criteria, and underwent repair of skin and soft tissue defects of extremities with ultrathin thoracodorsal artery perforator flap designed and harvested based on the surgeon's clinical experience were selected as control group, including 16 males and 4 females, aged (37±5) years. From November 2019 to December 2022, 21 patients who were admitted to our department, met the inclusion criteria, and underwent repair of skin and soft tissue defects of extremities with ultrathin thoracodorsal artery perforator flap designed and harvested under the assistance of color Doppler ultrasound were selected as ultrasound-assisted group, including 15 males and 6 females, aged (38±6) years. After debridement, the area of skin and soft tissue defects of extremities ranged 5.0 cm×4.0 cm to 19.0 cm×8.0 cm, and the area of thoracodorsal artery perforator flaps ranged 6.0 cm×5.0 cm to 20.0 cm×9.0 cm. The wounds in flap donor sites were closed directly. For patients in ultrasound-assisted group, the time and cost required for color Doppler ultrasound examination were recorded, and the number, type, and location of thoracodorsal artery perforator vessels detected by preoperative color Doppler ultrasound were compared with those of intraoperative actual detection. The time required for complete flap harvest of patients in 2 groups was recorded. On postoperative day (POD) 1, 3, 5, 7, and 14, the blood perfusion of flaps in the 2 groups of patients was assessed using a flap perfusion assessment scale. On POD 14, flap survival of patients in 2 groups was observed, and the percentage of flap survival area was calculated. In postoperative 6 months, satisfaction of patients with the treatment outcome in the 2 groups was assessed using 5-grade Likert scale, and the satisfaction rate was calculated. Results: For patients in ultrasound-assisted group, the time required for preoperative color Doppler ultrasound examination was (10.5±2.3) min, and the cost was 120 yuan; 21 thoracodorsal artery perforator vessels were detected and marked using preoperative color Doppler ultrasound, including 8 (38.10%) type 1 perforator vessels, 10 (47.62%) type 2 perforator vessels, and 3 (14.29%) type 3 perforator vessels; the number, type, and location of thoracodorsal artery perforator vessels detected preoperatively were consistent with those detected intraoperatively. The time required for complete flap harvest of patients in ultrasound-assisted group was (41±10) min, which was significantly shorter than (63±12) min in control group (t=6.32, P<0.05). On POD 1, 3, 5, 7, and 14, the blood perfusion scores of flaps of patients in ultrasound-assisted group were significantly better than those in control group (with t values of 6.67, 7.48, 8.03, 8.75, and 7.99, respectively P<0.05). On POD 14, only one patient in ultrasound-assisted group had partial flap necrosis and 6 patients in control group had complete or partial necrosis of the flap; the percentage of flap survival area of patients in ultrasound-assisted group was (99±8)%, which was significantly higher than (87±8)% in control group (t=4.57, P<0.05). In postoperative 6 months, there was no significant difference in the satisfaction rate of patients with the treatment outcome between the two groups (P>0.05). Conclusions: Preoperative color Doppler ultrasound is highly accurate in detecting the number, type, and location of perforator vessels. The cutting scheme of ultrathin thoracodorsal artery perforator flaps can be designed according to the different types of perforator vessels, with shorted flap cutting time and improved flap survival rate.

[Anti-asthma components and mechanism of Kechuanting acupoint application therapy: based on serum metabolomics and network pharmacology]

This study aims to explore the anti-asthma components and mechanism of Kechuanting acupoint application therapy(KAAT) based on serum metabolomics and network pharmacology. A total of 60 asthma patients who had used low-dose inhaled corticosteroids-formoterol(ICS-formoterol) for a long time were randomized into the western medicine group(low-dose ICS-formoterol) and western medicine+Kechuanting group(KAAT+low-dose ICS-Formoterol), 30 in either group. In addition, 30 healthy people were included as the control(no intervention). The asthma control test(ACT) score, forced expiratory volume in 1 second(FEV1), and peak expiratory flow(PEF) were measured in the western medicine group and western medicine+Kechuanting group before and after treatment. The potential biomarkers of KAAT in the treatment of asthma were screened by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry combined with multivariate analysis, and the related metabolic pathways were further analyzed. UPLC/LTQ-Orbitrap-MS, together with network pharmacology, was employed to construct the component-target-pathway network. Thereby, the effective components and me-chanism of KAAT in the treatment of asthma were clarified. According to the ACT score, FEV1, and PEF, KAAT was effective in the treatment of asthma. A total of 10 endogenous biomarkers of KAAT in the treatment of asthma were screened by serum metabolomics, and the pathways of the metabolism of glycine, serine and threonine, and the metabolism of glyoxylic acid and dicarboxylic acid were obtained. UPLC/LTQ-Orbitrap-MS identified 51 chemical components of KAAT: 24 flavonoids, 11 alkaloids, 8 phenols, 2 diterpenoids, 2 triterpenoids, 2 glycosides, and 2 aldehydes. Network pharmacology analysis suggested that KAAT mainly acted on serum crea-tinine(SRC), matrix metalloproteinase 9(MMP-9), and other target proteins. The treatment was closely related to metabolic pathway, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-protein kinase B(PI3 K-Akt), mitogen-activated protein kinase(MAPK), and calcium signaling pathway. Sinapine thiocyanate, corydaline, dihydroberberine, stylopine, leonticine, N-methyl tetrahydroberberine, kaempferide, erio-dictyol, quercetin, catechin, 6-gingerol, 6-shogaol, ingenol, and luteolin may be potential effective compounds of KAAT in the treatment of asthma. This study preliminarily revealed that the effective components and mechanism of KAAT in treatment of asthma based on serum metabolomics and network pharmacology. It lays a theoretical foundation for in-depth study of the mechanism and clinical development and application.

[Components of drugs in acupoint sticking therapy and its mechanism of intervention on bronchial asthma based on UPLC-Q-TOF-MS combined with network pharmacology and experimental verification]

UPLC-Q-TOF-MS combined with network pharmacology and experimental verification was used to explore the mechanism of acupoint sticking therapy(AST) in the intervention of bronchial asthma(BA). The chemical components of Sinapis Semen, Cory-dalis Rhizoma, Kansui Radix, Asari Radix et Rhizoma, and Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens were retrieved from TCMSP as self-built database. The active components in AST drugs were analyzed by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS, and the targets were screened out in TCMSP and Swiss-TargetPrediction. Targets of BA were collected from GeneCards, and the intersection of active components and targets was obtained by Venny 2.1.0. The potential targets were imported into STRING and DAVID for PPI, GO, and KEGG analyses. The asthma model induced by house dust mite(HDM) was established in mice. The mechanism of AST on asthmatic mice was explored by pulmonary function, Western blot, and flow cytometry. The results indicated that 54 active components were obtained by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS and 162 potential targets were obtained from the intersection. The first 53 targets were selected as key targets. PPI, GO, and KEGG analyses showed that AST presumedly acted on SRC, PIK3 CA, and other targets through active components such as sinoacutine, sinapic acid, dihydrocapsaicin, and 6-gingerol and regulated PI3 K-AKT, ErbB, chemokine, sphingolipid, and other signaling pathways to intervene in the pathological mechanism of BA. AST can improve lung function, down-regulate the expression of PI3 K and p-AKT proteins in lung tissues, enhance the expression of PETN protein, and reduce the level of type Ⅱ innate immune cells(ILC2 s) in lung tissues of asthmatic mice. In conclusion, AST may inhibit ILC2 s by down-regulating the PI3 K-AKT pathway to relieve asthmatic airway inflammation and reduce airway hyperresponsiveness.

The Long Terminal Repeats of ERV6 Are Activated in Pre-Implantation Embryos of Cynomolgus Monkey

Precise gene regulation is critical during embryo development. Long terminal repeat elements (LTRs) of endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) are dynamically expressed in blastocysts of mammalian embryos. However, the expression pattern of LTRs in monkey blastocyst is still unknown. By single-cell RNA-sequencing (seq) data of cynomolgus monkeys, we found that LTRs of several ERV families, including MacERV6, MacERV3, MacERV2, MacERVK1, and MacERVK2, were highly expressed in pre-implantation embryo cells including epiblast (EPI), trophectoderm (TrB), and primitive endoderm (PrE), but were depleted in post-implantation. We knocked down MacERV6-LTR1a in cynomolgus monkeys with a short hairpin RNA (shRNA) strategy to examine the potential function of MacERV6-LTR1a in the early development of monkey embryos. The silence of MacERV6-LTR1a mainly postpones the differentiation of TrB, EPI, and PrE cells in embryos at day 7 compared to control. Moreover, we confirmed MacERV6-LTR1a could recruit Estrogen Related Receptor Beta (ESRRB), which plays an important role in the maintenance of self-renewal and pluripotency of embryonic and trophoblast stem cells through different signaling pathways including FGF and Wnt signaling pathways. In summary, these results suggest that MacERV6-LTR1a is involved in gene regulation of the pre-implantation embryo of the cynomolgus monkeys.

[Clinical effects of retrograde anterolateral thigh perforator flaps assisted with computed tomography angiography in repairing skin and soft tissue defects around the knee or in proximal lower leg]

Objective: To investigate the clinical effects of retrograde anterolateral thigh perforator flaps assisted with computed tomography angiography (CTA) in repairing skin and soft tissue defects around the knee or in proximal lower leg. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted. From May 2015 to October 2019, 17 patients with skin and soft tissue defects around the knee or in proximal lower leg were admitted to the Department of Orthopedics of Jizhong Energy Xingtai Mig General Hospital, including 12 males and 5 females, aged 16-65 years, with an average age of 35 years. The areas of skin and soft tissue defects after debridement ranged from 6.0 cm×3.0 cm to 15.0 cm×9.0 cm. The retrograde anterolateral thigh perforator flaps were designed according to the origin and distribution of the perforating branches in flaps and the length of the vascular pedicle examined with CTA and the condition of the wound to repair the wounds. The areas of resected flaps ranged from 6.5 cm×3.5 cm to 15.5 cm×9.5 cm. The wounds in donor sites of flaps were sutured directly or covered with medium-thickness skin grafts from healthy upper leg. The sources of the perforating branches in flaps were recorded. The lateral circumflex femoral artery, its branches, and the relative length of the vascular pedicle were compared between preoperative CTA detection and intraoperative observation. The survivals of the flaps were observed. At the last follow-up, the effects of flaps in repairing wounds were evaluated according to evaluation standard of efficacy satisfaction; the motion ranges of flexion and extension of the knee joint were measured, and the knee joint function was evaluated according to the Hohl knee joint function evaluation standard; the sensory function in the flap area was evaluated according to the sensory function evaluation standard formulated by the British Medical Research Council; the wound healing and the occurrence of complication affecting motor function of limb of flap donor sites was observed. Data were statistically analyzed with paired sample t test. Results: The perforating branches in flaps originated from descending branches, oblique branches, and rectus femoris branches of lateral circumflex femoral artery in 7, 6, and 4 patients, respectively. The flaps with blood supply from descending branches, oblique branches, and rectus femoris branches of lateral circumflex femoral artery were type 1, 2, and 3 retrograde anterolateral thigh perforator flaps, respectively. The preoperative CTA examination of lateral circumflex femoral artery and its branches were consistent with those observed during operation. The relative lengths of vascular pedicles of type 1, 2, and 3 retrograde anterolateral thigh perforator flaps calculated after CTA examination were 0.32±0.13, 0.56±0.07, and 0.56±0.15, which were close to 0.35±0.12, 0.52±0.10, and 0.53±0.12 measured and calculated during operation, respectively (t=0.45, 0.80, 0.31, P>0.05). All flaps survived in 17 cases without vascular crisis. At the last follow-up, 16 patients were satisfied with effects of flaps in wound repair, with 1 patient feeling average about the effect; the flexion range of knee joint was 100-120°, and the extension range of knee joint was -2-0°; knee joint function was evaluated as excellent in 9 cases, good in 7 cases, and poor in 1 case; the sensory function of the flap area reached S₄ level in 2 cases, S₃ level in 8 cases, and S₂ level in 7 cases; the wounds in flap donor sites healed well; there was no adverse effect in motor function of limbs. Conclusions: Retrograde anterolateral thigh perforator flap is an effective method for repairing skin and soft tissue defects around the knee or in proximal lower leg. Preoperative CTA examination can fully show the anatomical characteristics of the branches of the lateral circumflex femoral artery and the perforating vessels of each branch, which can guide preoperative flap design and operation, thus shortening operation time and improving flap survival rate, with good clinical effects.

Improvement of long-term clinical outcomes by successful PCI in the very elderly women with ACS

BACKGROUND

Whether very elderly women with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) should receive aggressive percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is still controversial. We assessed the effectiveness and long-term clinical outcomes of successful PCI in this population and identified prognostic factors which might contribute to the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) in the very elderly female PCI cohort.

METHODS

Female ACS patients aged ≥ 80 years were consecutively enrolled (n = 729) into the study. All the patients were divided into female PCI group (n = 232) and medical group (n = 497). MACCE was followed up, including non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, heart failure requiring hospitalization (HFRH), cardiovascular (CV) death, and the composite of them. After propensity score matching (1:1), the incidences of MACCE were compared between the two groups. Clinical and coronary artery lesion characteristics were compared between the female PCI patients with (n = 56) and without MACCE (n = 176). Multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors which independently associated with MACCE in the female PCI patients. MACCE of male PCI patients, who aged ≥ 80 years and hospitalized in the same period (n = 264), was also compared with that of the female PCI patients.

RESULTS

A total of 32% very elderly female ACS patients received PCI in the present study. (1) Compared to female medical group, PCI procedure significantly alleviated the risks of MACCE: non-fatal MI (6.2% vs. 20.2%, P < 0.001), HFRH (10.9% vs. 22.5%, P = 0.012), CV death (12.4% vs. 28.7%, P < 0.001) and the composite MACCE (24.0% vs. 44.2%, P < 0.001) during the median follow-up period of 36 months. (2) Between very elderly female and male PCI patients, there were no significant differences in occurrence of MACCE (P = 0.232) and CV death (P = 0.951). (3) Multivariate Cox analysis revealed that ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) (HR 1.944, 95% CI 1.11-3.403, P = 0.02) and elevated log- N-Terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) (HR 1.689, 95% CI 1.029-2.773, P = 0.038) were independently associated with the incidence of MACCE in the female PCI patients.

CONCLUSIONS

PCI procedure significantly attenuated the risk of MACCE and improved the long-term clinical outcomes in very elderly female ACS patients. Aggressive PCI strategy may be reasonable in this population.

Equation Derivation of the Probability Distribution of IBS Score among Full Sibling Pairs

Objective To derive the general equation of the probability distribution of identity by state （IBS） score among biological full sibling pairs by calculating STR allele frequency. Methods Based on the Mendelian genetics law and the hypothesis that parents of biological full siblings （FS） were unrelated individuals, the IBS score and corresponding probability of different genotype combinations in the offspring when unrelated individuals of different genotype combinations give birth to two offsprings were derived. Results Given f_i （i=1, 2, …, m） as the frequency of the ith allele of a STR locus, the probability of sharing 2 alleles （p2FS）, 1 allele （p1FS） or 0 allele （p0FS） with biological full sibling pairs on the locus can be respectively expressed as follows： (see the text). The sum of p2FS, p1FS and p0FS must be 1. As for the multiple genotyping system that contained n STR loci, IBS scores between biological full sibling pairs conform to binomial distribution： IBS~B（2n, π1）. The population rate π1, can be given by the formula： (see the text). Conclusion The alternative hypothesis in biological full sibling testing is that two appraised individuals are biological full siblings. The probability of the corresponding alternative hypothesis of any STR locus combination or IBS score can be directly calculated by the equations presented in this study, and the calculation results are the basis for explanations of the evidence.

Ginsenoside Rb1 Ameliorates Autophagy of Hypoxia Cardiomyocytes from Neonatal Rats via AMP-Activated Protein Kinase Pathway

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether ginsenoside-Rb1 (Gs-Rb1) improves the CoCl-induced autophagy of cardiomyocytes via upregulation of adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway.

METHODS

Ventricles from 1- to 3-day-old Wistar rats were sequentially digested, separated and incubated in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum for 3 days followed by synchronization. Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were randomly divided into 7 groups: control group (normal level oxygen), hypoxia group (500 μmol/L CoCl₂), Gs-Rb1 group (200 μmol/L Gs-Rb1 + 500 μmol/L CoCl₂), Ara A group (500 μmol/L Ara A + 500 μmol/L CoCl₂), Ara A+ Gs-Rb1 group (500 μmol/L Ara A + 200 μmol/L Gs-Rb1 + 500 μmol/L CoCl₂), AICAR group [1 mmol/L 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide (AICAR) + 500 μmol/L CoCl₂], and AICAR+Gs-Rb1 group (1 mmol/L AICAR + 200 μmol/L Gs-Rb1 + 500 μmol/L CoCl₂). Cells were treated for 12 h and cell viability was determined by methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and cardiac troponin I (cTnI) levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). AMPK activity was assessed by 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) ELISA assay. The protein expressions of Atg4B, Atg5, Atg6, Atg7, microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3 (LC3), P62, and active-cathepsin B were measured by Western blot.

RESULTS

Gs-Rb1 significantly improved the cell viability of hypoxia cardiomyocytes (P<0.01). However, the viability of hypoxia-treated cardiomyocytes was significantly inhibited by Ara A (P<0.01). Gs-Rb1 increased the AMPK activity of hypoxia-treated cardiomyocytes. The AMPK activity of hypoxia-treated cadiomyocytes was inhibited by Ara A (P<0.01) and was not affected by AICAR =0.983). Gs-Rb1 up-regulated Atg4B, Atg5, Beclin-1, Atg7, LC3B II, the LC3B II/I ratio and cathepsin B activity of hypoxia cardiomyocytes (P<0.05), each of these protein levels was significantly enhanced by Ara A (all P<0.01), but was not affected by AICAR (all P>0.05). Gs-Rb1 significantly down-regulated P62 levels of hypoxic cardiomyocytes (P<0.05). The P62 levels of hypoxic cardiomyocytes were inhibited by Ara A (P<0.05) and were not affected by AICAR (P=0.871).

CONCLUSION

Gs-Rb1 may improve the viability of hypoxia cardiomyocytes by ameliorating cell autophagy via the upregulation of AMPK pathway.

Quality of Life, Adherence Behavior, and Social Support Among Renal Transplant Recipients in China: A Descriptive Correlational Study

BACKGROUND

Quality of life (QoL) is an important indicator for evaluating therapeutic outcomes and mortality in renal transplant recipients, but there is scarce information regarding QoL, adherence behavior, social support and their relationships. This study assessed these factors among renal transplant recipients.

METHODS

Using a descriptive, correlational, cross-sectional design, this study included a convenience sample of 253 kidney transplant recipients. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data.

RESULTS

The scores on QoL domains (except the social functioning domain [P = .909]) were lower in our recipients than in the general Chinese population norm (P = .0000001). Time since transplantation (P = .041) and education (P = .013) were factors affecting QoL scores. The mean total adherence behavior score was 60.64 ± 7.71. Occupation and time since transplantation affected the total adherence behavior score. There was an alarming percentage of nonadherence in our transplant recipients (27.5%-72.3%). The mean total social support score was 40.76 ± 9.51. The total social support score (P = .0000087) was lower than the general Chinese population norm. Occupation (P = .0000087) education (P = .010), marital status (P = .013), payment method (P = .028) and monthly income (P = .007) affected the total social support score; there were significant relationships between physical health, psychological health, adherence behavior (r = .145, P = .022; r = .153, P = .016), and social support (r = .211, P = .001; r = .301, P = .000).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings demonstrate somewhat deficient QoL among renal transplant recipients compared with the general population. Social support, adherence behavior, time since transplantation and education significantly influenced QoL for our recipients, and social support had the most significant influence on adherence behavior and QoL.

Formula Derivation for the Probability Distribution of IBS Score in Unrelated Individual Pairs

OBJECTIVES

To derive the probability equation given by STR allele frequencies of identity by state （IBS） score shared by unrelated individual pairs.

METHODS

By comparing the STR genotypes of two unrelated individuals, three mutually exclusive combinations could be obtained： （1） sharing 2 identical alleles, a₂=1, otherwise a₂=0; （2） sharing 1 identical allele, a₁=1, otherwise a₁=0; （3） sharing 0 identical allele, a₀=1, otherwise a₀=0. And the IBS score of the one STR locus in this unrelated individual pair could be given by the formula： ibs=2a₂+a₁. The probability of a₂=1 （p₂）, a₁=1 （p₁） and a₀=1 （p₀） were derived and expressed in powers of the allele frequencies. Subsequently, for a genotyping system including n independent STR loci, the characteristics of binomial distribution of IBS score shared by a pair of unrelated individuals could be given by p₂_l and p₁_l （l=1, 2, …, n）.

RESULTS

All the general equations of p₂, p₁ and p₀ were derived from the basic conceptions of a₂, a₁ and a₀, respectively. Given f_i （i=1, 2, …, m） as the ith allele frequency of a STR locus, the general equations of p₂, p₁ and p₀ could be respectively expressed in powers of f_i： [Formula: see text],[Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. The sum of p₂, p₁ and p₀ must be equal to 1. Then, the binomial distribution of IBS score shared by unrelated individual pairs genotyped with n independently STR loci could be written by： IBS~B（2n, π）, and the general probability, π, could be given by the formula： [Formula: see text].

CONCLUSIONS

In the biological full sibling identification, the probability of null hypothesis corresponding to any specific IBS score can be directly calculated by the general equations presented in this study, which is the basement of the evidence explanation.

[Efficacy and safety of ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir combined with ribavirin in Asian adult patients with chronic HCV genotype 1b infection and compensated cirrhosis]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir (OBV/PTV/r) 25/150/100 mg once daily and dasabuvir (DSV) 250 mg twice daily combined with ribavirin in adult patients of Mainland China with chronic HCV genotype 1b infection and compensated cirrhosis. Methods: An open-label, multicenter, phase 3 clinical trial study was conducted in mainland China, Taiwan, and South Korea. Adult patients with compensated cirrhosis (Metavir score =F4) who were newly diagnosed and treated for hepatitis C virus genotype 1b infection with ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir combined with ribavirin for 12 weeks were included. Assessed SVR rate of patients obtained at 12 and 24 weeks after drug withdrawal. Efficacy and safety were evaluated in patients who received at least one time study drugs. Results: A total of 63 patients from mainland China were enrolled, 62 of whom (98.4%) had a baseline Child-Pugh score of 5 points. The overall rate of SVR12 and SVR24 in patients was 100% (95% CI: 94.3% to 100.0%). Most of the adverse events that occurred were mild. The incidence of common (≥10%) adverse events and laboratory abnormalities included elevated total bilirubin (36.5%), weakness (19.0%), elevated unconjugated bilirubin (19.0%) and conjugated bilirubin (17.5%), and anemia (14.3%). Three cases (4.8%) of patients experienced Grade ≥ 3 adverse events that were considered by the investigators to be unrelated to the study drug. None patients had adverse events leading to premature drug withdrawal. Conclusion: Mainland Chinese patients with chronic HCV genotype 1b infection and compensated cirrhosis who were treated with OBV/PTV/r plus DSV combined with RBV for 12 weeks achieved 100 % SVR at 12 and 24 weeks after drug withdrawal. Tolerability and safety were good, and majority of adverse events were mild.

Genetic characterization of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance gene qnrS2 in Pseudoalteromonas and Shewanella isolates from seawater

Three qnrS2-containing isolates of Pseudoalteromonas and Shewanella were collected from the seawater samples of Qingdao in China during 2014. They displayed resistance to ampicillin, ciprofloxacin, kanamycin, nalidixic acid and sulfamethoxazole. The qnrS2 genes were identified in the chromosomes of Pseudoalteromonas strains E8 and S16, and in a 140-kb plasmid in Shewanella strain S14, respectively. In addition, two copies of qnrS2 were identified in the strain E8. Sequence analyses revealed that there was an identical DNA segment located in the downstream of qnrS2 in strain S14 and E8, coding for a TetR transcriptional regulator, two putative integrases and a hypothetical protein. However, different genetic structures were identified in the upstream sequences: the terB gene associated with tellurite resistance in the strain S14, and a putative integron with dfrA6 and aadA13 gene cassettes or the Tn7-related gene complex tnsABC in the strain E8. In Pseudoalteromonas strain S16, qnrS2 was bracketed by the endonuclease I and III genes, and the electron transport complex rsxCDGE was located in the upstream sequences. This is the first report of two copies of the qnrS2 gene existing in one bacterial chromosome, and also the first identification of qnrS2 in Shewanella.

Attenuation of High Glucose-Induced Rat Cardiomyocyte Apoptosis by Exendin-4 via Intervention of HO-1/Nrf-2 and the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway

Exendin-4, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, demonstrated cytoprotective actions beyond glycemic control in recent studies. The aims of the present study were to investigate the effects of exendin-4 on high glucose (HG)-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis and the possible mechanisms. Rat cardiomyocytes were divided into 3 groups: normal glucose group (NG group), HG group and HG +exendin-4 group (HG+Ex Group). Cardiomyocyte apoptosis was evaluated by double-staining with annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)/propidium iodide (PI) and flow cytometry. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was detected by 2’,7’-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCHF-DA) incubation and fluorescence microscopy. LY294002 (LY), a phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway inhibitor, was added to the medium of the HG+Ex+LY Group for further western blot analysis. The proteins analyzed involved oxidative stress-associated proteins, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), and apoptosis-associated proteins, caspase-3, Bax/B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) and p-AKT/AKT. HG treatment induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis (P = 0.00) and clearly upregulated ROS production (P = 0.00); exendin-4 co-incubation also ameliorated cardiomyocyte apoptosis (P = 0.004) and decreased ROS (P = 0.00) level significantly. HO-1 and Nrf-2 protein expression levels decreased significantly in the HG group (P < 0.05), but the levels were elevated by exendin-4 intervention (P < 0.05). Furthermore, exendin-4 attenuated HG-induced higher protein expression, including cleaved caspase-3 and Bax, increased the expression of Bcl-2 protein (P < 0.05). However, these impacts of exendin-4 were counteracted significantly by co-incubation with LY294002. In addition, exendin-4 ameliorated HG-induced p-AKT/AKT lower expression, and this impact was also suppressed by LY294002. Exendin-4 ameliorates HG-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and the mechanisms may involve anti-oxidative stress via the HO-1/Nrf-2 system, as well as intervention of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

[Full Sibling Identification by IBS Scoring Method and Establishment of the Query Table of Its Critical Value]

OBJECTIVES

To establish a query table of IBS critical value and identification power for the detection systems with different numbers of STR loci under different false judgment standards.

METHODS

Samples of 267 pairs of full siblings and 360 pairs of unrelated individuals were collected and 19 autosomal STR loci were genotyped by Goldeneye™ 20A system. The full siblings were determined using IBS scoring method according to the 'Regulation for biological full sibling testing'. The critical values and identification power for the detection systems with different numbers of STR loci under different false judgment standards were calculated by theoretical methods.

RESULTS

According to the formal IBS scoring criteria, the identification power of full siblings and unrelated individuals was 0.764 0 and the rate of false judgment was 0. The results of theoretical calculation were consistent with that of sample observation. The query table of IBS critical value for identification of full sibling detection systems with different numbers of STR loci was successfully established.

CONCLUSIONS

The IBS scoring method defined by the regulation has high detection efficiency and low false judgment rate, which provides a relatively conservative result. The query table of IBS critical value for identification of full sibling detection systems with different numbers of STR loci provides an important reference data for the result judgment of full sibling testing and owns a considerable practical value.

Finite-temperature scaling of trace distance discord near criticality in spin diamond structure

In this work we explore the quantum correlation quantified by trace distance discord as a measure to analyze the quantum critical behaviors in the Ising-XXZ diamond structure at finite temperatures. It is found that the first-order derivative of the trace distance discord exhibits a maximum around the critical point at finite temperatures. By analyzing the finite-temperature scaling behavior, we show that such a quantum correlation can detect exactly the quantum phase transitions from the entan-gled state in ferrimagnetic phase to an unentangled state in ferrimagnetic phase or to an unentangled state in ferromagnetic phase. The results also indicate that the above two kinds of transitions can be distinguished by the different finite-temperature scaling behaviors. Moreover, we find that the trace distance discord, in contrast to other typical quantum correlations (e.g., concurrence, quantum discord and Hellinger distance), may be more reliable to exactly spotlight the critical points of this model at finite temperatures under certain situations.

Progressive decay of Ca2+ homeostasis in the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy

Background

Cardiac dysfunction in diabetic cardiomyopathy may be associated with abnormal Ca²⁺ homeostasis. This study investigated the effects of alterations in Ca²⁺ homeostasis and sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺-associated proteins on cardiac function in the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy.

Methods

Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups (n = 12, each): a control group, and streptozotocin-induced rat models of diabetes groups, examined after 4, 8, or 12 weeks. Evaluations on cardiac structure and function were performed by echocardiography and hemodynamic examinations, respectively. Cardiomyocytes were isolated and spontaneous Ca²⁺ spark images were formed by introducing fluorescent dye Fluo-4 and obtained with confocal scanning microscopy. Expressions of Ca²⁺-associated proteins were assessed by Western blotting.

Results

Echocardiography and hemodynamic measurements revealed that cardiac dysfunction is associated with the progression of diabetes, which also correlated with a gradual but significant decline in Ca²⁺ spark frequency (in the 4-, 8- and 12-week diabetic groups). However, Ca²⁺ spark decay time constants increased significantly, relative to the control group. Expressions of ryanodine receptor 2 (RyR2), sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺-2ATPase (SERCA) and Na⁺/Ca²⁺ exchanger (NCX1) were decreased, together with quantitative alterations in Ca²⁺regulatory proteins, FKBP12.6 and phospholamban progressively and respectively in the diabetic rats.

Conclusions

Ca²⁺ sparks exhibited a time-dependent decay with progression of diabetic cardiomyopathy, which may partly contribute to cardiac dysfunction. This abnormality may be attributable to alterations in the expressions of some Ca²⁺-associated proteins.

The effect of dietary protein levels on the expression of genes coding for four selected protein translation initiation factors in muscle tissue of Wujin pig

The objective of this study was to investigate the regulatory mechanism underlying the increased muscle protein accumulation in pigs while were fed a high protein diet. The eukaryotic initiation factors (eIFs) have been reported to involve in muscle protein synthesis. We investigated the mRNA and protein expression levels of eIF2B1, 4A1, 4B and 4E in Wujin pigs fed either a high protein (HP: 18%) or a low protein (LP: 14%) diet at 30, 60 or 100 kg body weight, based on real-time PCR and western blotting analyses. Our results indicated that the expression levels of eIF2B1 mRNA and protein were increased by HP diet at all body weight. The HP diet showed higher mRNA and protein levels of eIF4B gene at 60 and 100 kg. The protein expression of eIF4E phosphorylation was increased by HP diet only at 30 kg. These data suggested that the HP diet promoted porcine muscle protein accumulation mainly by up-regulating eIF2B1, 4B and 4E rather than 4A1 expression along the growth stages.

Potential implication of activating killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor and HLA in onset of pulmonary tuberculosis

Killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) and human leucocyte antigen (HLA) play crucial role in maintaining immune homoeostasis and controlling immune responses. To investigate the influence of KIR and HLA-C ligands on the risk of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), we studied 200 patients who were confirmed to have PTB and 200 healthy controls on the different frequencies of KIR and HLA-C ligands. Genotyping of these genes was conducted by sequence-specific primer polymerase chain reaction (SSP-PCR) method. Gene frequencies were compared between PTB group and the control group by χ(2) test, and P < 0.05 was regarded as statistically significant. As a result, the frequency of KIR genotype A/B was increased in PTB than controls but A/A was decreased. Moreover, striking differences were observed in the frequencies of HLA-Cw*08 between the two groups. Besides, the frequencies of '2DL2/3 with C1' in PTB were increased compared with control group. In addition, individuals with no KIR2DS3 and no Cw*08 were higher in controls than in PTB. KIR2DS1 was increased in PTB when HLA-C group 2 alleles were missing. In conclusion, KIR and HLA-C gene polymorphisms were related to susceptibility to PTB.

Genotyping of urinary samples stored with EDTA for forensic applications

Individual identification of urinary samples is necessary when sample switching or handling are suspected during a judicial process. To improve the rate of successful genotyping of urinary samples, we examined the stability of DNA in urinary samples stored for up to 30 days. Urinary samples from 20 healthy individuals (10 males and 10 females) were stored at -80°C with different concentrations of EDTA (0, 10 and 40 mM). Urinary DNA was extracted at days 0, 3, 9, and 30 after collection. The Quantifiler Human DNA Quantification Kit was used for measuring DNA concentration. Twenty STR loci were co-amplified using amelogenin-specific PCR with the Goldeneye 20A Kit. Significant differences in DNA concentration were observed between samples from females and males. In the case of female urinary DNA preservation with 10 and 40 mM EDTA the mean detection rate reached 0.95 after up to 30 days; for the male urinary samples, the mean detection rate of urinary DNA preserved with 40 mM EDTA was significantly higher than with 10 mM. We concluded that 40 mM EDTA is the best concentration for preservation of the DNA in urinary samples.

Expression of lipogenic genes during porcine intramuscular preadipocyte differentiation

Intramuscular fat (IMF) content plays an important role in meat quality. Triglyceride (TG) metabolism in intramuscular adipocytes is strongly associated with the intramuscular fat deposition. To better understand the mechanisms leading to IMF deposition we compared the expression levels of genes related to preadipocyte differentiation and lipogenesis in the intramuscular preadipocytes isolated from the longissimus muscle of Wujin and Landrace pigs. The results showed that the intramuscular preadipocytes could differentiate into mature adipocytes in vitro. Triglyceride content in adipocytes isolated from Wujin pigs was higher than Landrace pigs during the middle and later phases of preadipocyte differentiation. The expression levels of genes related to preadipocyte differentiation such as PPARG and CEBPA showed differential expression between Wujin and Landrace porcine adipocytes during the early stage of differentiation. The expression levels of lipogenic genes such as FASN and SREBF1 were significantly higher in Wujin porcine intramuscular preadipocytes than in Landrace intramuscular preadipocytes at the middle and the later stages of differentiation. This suggests that preadipocyte differentiation and lipogenesis exhibited breed-related scheduling.

Aberration corrections for free-space optical communications in atmosphere turbulence using orbital angular momentum states

The effect of atmosphere turbulence on light's spatial structure compromises the information capacity of photons carrying the Orbital Angular Momentum (OAM) in free-space optical (FSO) communications. In this paper, we study two aberration correction methods to mitigate this effect. The first one is the Shack-Hartmann wavefront correction method, which is based on the Zernike polynomials, and the second is a phase correction method specific to OAM states. Our numerical results show that the phase correction method for OAM states outperforms the Shark-Hartmann wavefront correction method, although both methods improve significantly purity of a single OAM state and the channel capacities of FSO communication link. At the same time, our experimental results show that the values of participation functions go down at the phase correction method for OAM states, i.e., the correction method ameliorates effectively the bad effect of atmosphere turbulence.

Cardiac fibrosis in diabetic rats: regulation and mechanism of activation of the PPARgamma signal pathway

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARgamma) is a member of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily which affects organic fibrosis. The aims of the study were to approach the effects of activation of the PPARgamma signal pathway on cardiac fibrosis in diabetic rats, and also the effects on cardiac remodeling and function. Type 1 diabetic models were used in the study. All the animals were divided into 3 groups: I: control group; II: diabetic group; III: diabetes+Pioglitazone (Piog, a PPARgamma ligand) administration group. After 14 weeks of feeding, general condition, fibrosis indices, echocardiography and interventricular pressures parameters were detected. At the 14th week, compared with group I, the hydroxyproline concentration in group II significantly increased, and CO I and III distribution was more obvious by sirius red staining. Reduction of LVSP (left ventricular systolic pressure) and increase of LVEDP (left ventricular end-diastolic pressure) were also significant in group II. But these situations were changed by the administration of Piog in group III. Furthermore, results of RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry showed that Piog administration reduced angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1-R) expression in diabetic models. Hence, activation of the PPARgamma signal pathway could repress cardiac fibrosis in diabetic rats, and partly improve cardiac remodeling and function by down-regulating activity of RAS at the receptor level.

Acute rejection correlates with expression of major histocompatibility complex class I antigens on peripheral blood CD3(+)CD8(+) T-lymphocytes following skin transplantation in mice

This study investigated major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) antigen expression on peripheral blood T-cells after transplantation to assess its potential as an early marker of acute graft rejection (AGR). Using a mouse model with or without immunosuppressive treatment, the expression of MHC-I antigens on CD3(+)CD8(+) T-lymphocytes was assessed by flow cytometry following syngeneic graft (n = 138) or allograft (n = 138) skin transplantation. The occurrence of AGR was assessed by examining the degree of lymphocyte and monocyte infiltration in transplant biopsies. During AGR, expression of MHC-I antigens increased significantly compared with pre-transplant levels in the allograft group, even with immunosuppressive treatment. The highest expression of MHC-I antigens occurred 5 - 6 days before macroscopic rejection. These results suggest that expression of MHC-I antigens on peripheral blood CD3(+)CD8(+) T-lymphocytes could be used as an early marker for predicting AGR.

Expression of the genes encoding human leucocyte antigens-A, -B, -DP, -DQ and -G in gastric cancer patients

This study compared the expression of the genes encoding human leucocyte antigens (HLA)-A, -B, -DP, -DR and -G in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in gastric cancer patients and healthy controls. Using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, levels of classical HLA-A, -B, -DP and -DR and non-classical HLA-G mRNA were studied in 43 gastric cancer patients and 22 controls. In addition, the levels of HLA-A,B,C and -G antigens on the surface of PBMCs were measured in 30 gastric cancer patients and 15 controls using flow cytometry. The mean fluorescence intensity of HLA-A,B,C antigen in the gastric cancer group was significantly lower than in controls. The HLA-G antigen was mainly present on CD4(+)CD8(-) T-lymphocytes. The percentage of CD4(+)CD8(-) T-lymphocytes positive for HLA-G antigen was significantly lower in the gastric cancer group compared with the healthy controls. Levels of HLA-A, -B and -G mRNA in the gastric cancer group were significantly lower than in controls. The HLA-G mRNA levels were significantly lower in gastric cancer of histological grades III and IV than in grades I and II. These data may provide a novel diagnostic and research tool for gastric cancer.

Effects of microwave radiation and conductive heating on Tribolium castaneum microstructure

Microwave radiation and conductive heating were used to completely kill adult Tribolium castaneum (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) in wheat flour to protect the flour during storage without significantly effecting its quality. The microstructure of T. castaneum was analyzed to reveal the mechanisms leading to death under microwave and heat treatments. Microwave radiation and conductive heating had different effects on the microstructure of the cuticle of adult T. castaneum and on the ultrastructure of the cells of the epidermis, fat body, and midgut. Both treatments caused a large cavity to appear in the nucleus and the disappearance of mitochondria and the Golgi apparatus. After microwave treatment, there was little change in the surface microstructure but the epidermis was of uneven thickness and the four outer layers of the cuticle were thinner. Nuclear size was essentially unchanged, but fat body cells were fewer and coalesced together. In contrast, conductive heating led to a disordered arrangement of cells on the surface of T. castaneum and indistinct boundaries between layers of the cuticle. The nuclei were enlarged and the fat body cells noticeably fewer and indistinct with a scattered distribution. Thus, microwave treatment produced less severe effects on the surface microstructure and cellular ultrastructure of T. castaneum than did conductive heating. It is concluded that these cellular and surface changes were responsible for the death of T. castaneum.

Effect of monoclonal antibody on expression of lipid metabolism related genes in porcine adipocytes

In order to study the mechanism of monoclonal antibody (McAb) against a porcine 40-kDa adipocyte-specific plasma membrane protein in reducing fat deposition, porcine primary adipocytes were treated with the McAb during the process of adipocyte differentiation; its effect on expression of lipid metabolism related genes was investigated. Adipocytes were treated with 1-methyl-3-isobutylmethylxanthine (IDX) plus 10 microg/mL of the McAb or without McAb. The mRNA levels of adipocyte differentiation related genes (PPARgamma and C/EBPalpha), lipid metabolism related genes (FAS, HSL, CPT-1B, DGAT and A-FABP) and adiponectin gene (AdipoQ) were determined using real-time quantitative PCR. The results showed that the differentiated adipocyte number and triglyceride (TG) content in adipocytes treated with the McAb were lower than that in cells without McAb during the whole process of adipocyte differentiation. The McAb significantly reduced mRNA expression of PPARgamma, C/EBPalpha, FAS, DGAT, A-FABP and adiponectin genes, but increased mRNA expression of HSL and CPT-1B genes during the medium and latter stage of adipocyte differentiation. This suggested that the McAb decreased triglycerol accumulation in adipocyte by both inhibiting adipocyte differentiation and regulating lipid metabolism, especially at the medium and latter stage of porcine adipocyte differentiation.

Relation of Hemoglobin A1c to myocardial acoustic densitometry and left ventricular diastolic function in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus and without evident heart disease

AIM

The aim of the study was to detect the echocardiographic sensitive indexes for prediction of the subclinical cardiac dysfunction and to evaluate the relation between Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and myocardial acoustic densitometry as well as cardiac function.

METHODS

Fifty DM2 patients (48.5+/-8.6 years) without evident heart disease and 50 age- and sex-matched normal controls (47.6+/-8.8 years) were enrolled. Conventional echocardiography, tissue Doppler imaging and acoustic densitometry of both groups were measured. HbA1c of DM2 patients were determined.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in systolic indexes between the two groups. Mean LV myocardial early diastolic velocity Em and Em/Am were lower in DM group than control group. Mean LV myocardial late diastolic velocity Am and E/Em were higher in DM group than control group. IVS-IBS% and LVPW-IBS% were higher in DM group than control group. IVS-CVIB and LVPW-CVIB were lower in DM group than control group. HbA1c was negatively correlated with E/A (gamma=-0.310, P<0.05), Em (gamma=-0.409, P<0.01), Em/Am (gamma=-0.380, P<0.01) and positively correlated with E/Em (gamma=0.488, P<0.01). Significant positive correlation was present between HbA1c and IVS-IBS% (gamma=0.679, P<0.01), LVPW-IBS% (gamma=0.666, P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The diastolic dysfunction and abnormal myocardial acoustic densitometry exist before the systolic function damage in DM2 patients. Tissue Doppler imaging and ultrasonic integrated backscatter can be used as sensitive means for early assessing myocardial histological changes in DM2 patients. HbA1c is related with both diastolic dysfunction and acoustic densitometry.

Down-regulation of the expression of angiotensin II type 1 receptor in neonatal rat cardiac fibroblast by activation of PPARgamma signal pathway

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARgamma) is one of the hormone nuclear receptors. Recent data have shown that activation of PPARgamma signal pathway has many positive effects on cardiovascular system. The goals of this study were to determine whether PPARgamma activator affects cardiac fibrosis and the possible mechanisms. Cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) of SD neonate rats were used in the study. Cells were divided into 4 groups: I--control group; II--pioglitazone group (Piog--PPARgamma agonist); III--angiotensin II (Ang II) group; and IV--Piog + Ang II group (Piog plus angiotensin II). mRNA and protein expression of collagen type I, III and angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1-R) were tested by reverse transcription--polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. With the inhibition of actinomycin D, we investigated the impacts of Piog on the stability of AT1-RmRNA. Compared with group I, the mRNA and protein expression of collagen type I, III and AT1-R were up-regulated in group III (P < 0.05). However with the effects of Piog in group IV, the expressions mentioned above were attenuated significantly (P < 0.05). With the effects of actinomycin D, AT1-RmRNA was reduced at the same degree in control and Piog groups at the same time points. These results indicated that treatment with Piog can attenuate Ang II-induced collagen synthesis in CFs through down-regulation of the AT1-R expression. With the intervention of actinomycin D, we suggested that PPARgamma agonist didn't affect the stability of AT1-RmRNA.

[Effect of nitrite on aerobic phosphate uptake by phosphate accumulating organisms]

Effect of nitrite at various concentration levels on aerobic phosphate uptake was investigated through a series of batch experiments. Furthermore, the effect of nitrite accumulated in the process of nitrification on aerobic phosphate uptake was studied in saline wastewater treatment. The results show that NO2(-) -N concentration of 4 mg/L inhibits aerobic phosphate uptake by phosphate uptake by phosphate accumulating organisms (PAO) and phosphate uptake rate decreases 8%. Exposure to higher nitrite concentration levels inhibits aerobic phosphate uptake severely. At NO2(-) -N concentration of 15 mg/L, phosphate uptake rate decreases 61%. The toxic effect of nitrite is presumed to be linked with free nitrous acid (FNA). Significant inhibition on aerobic phosphate uptake appeared at 0.000 2 mg/L of FNA concentration. The inhibiting effect of nitrite is found to occur only when nitrite is present. The ability of accumulating phosphate resumes afternitrite is no longer present. During the process of nitrification of nitrification of saline wastewater, the inhibition of nitrite on aerobic phosphate uptake is slight at the initial 1 - 2 h due to low nitrite accumulation. With the build-up of NO2(-) -N(up to about 8 to 9 mg/L), the inhibiting effect of nitrite increases gradually. It is found that higher ammonium concentration causes lower pH value and higher FNA concentration, which could decrease the amount of phosphate uptake.

A family-based and case-control association study of the NOTCH4 gene and schizophrenia

Recently a strong positive association between schizophrenia and Notch4 has been reported. Both individual markers and haplotypes showed association with the disease, with five markers (three microsatellites and two SNPs) being tested. In order to test this finding we genotyped these markers in the Han Chinese population using a sample of 544 cases and 621 controls as well as >300 trios. Analysis of allele, genotype and haplotype frequencies in both samples showed no association between the markers and the disease. Our results would indicate that a significant role for the Notch4 gene in schizophrenia can be ruled out in the Han Chinese. However, similar studies are necessary in the Caucasian population as linkage disequilibrium arrangements and founder effects may differ between these two populations.

[The factors of improving rice transformation efficiency]

The factors influencing the rice transformation frequency have been investigated by using 8 indica and japonica rice cultivars during the transformation procedures, such as induction of calli, selection, and regeneration. The following is the results: The immature embryos were pretreated in 4 degrees C for 4 or 7 days before inoculation, and the regeneration frequency of calli would be increased. High osmotic treatment may increase the possibility of transformation, especially for calli of 6 months or older. The transformation frequency was improved when selection pressure was removed during differentiation period. The V-type selection may be better than the normal selection. There is a difference of differentiation ability among the calli of three periods and it is found that the calli of two or three months are the best for transformation. Proline and DMSO can decrease browning rate of calli.

[Analysis of isozyme and RAPD for the germplasm lines from G. hirsutum x G. bickii]

To study the effectiveness of Gossypium interspecific hybrid breeding on molecular level, the six germplasm lines from interspecific hybrids between G. hirsutum and G. bickii were analysed by the techniques of RAPD and isozyme electrophoresis. The main results were summarized as follows: (1) The basic zymograms of peroxidase isozyme of the six germplasm lines were similar to their G. hirsutum parent, but two out of the germplasm lines showed one specific band of the wild parent of G. bickii (pI 4.85); (2) The RAPD fingerprint showed distinct difference of genomic DNA among the germplasm lines; (3) The four specific DNA fragments of G. bickii were observed in RAPD patters of four out of the six germplasm lines.

[A study of genetic character of cultivar Shiyuan 321 from G. barbadense x G. thurberi x G. hirsutum using isozyme and RAPD techniques]

To study the genetic character of trispecific hybrid cultivar Shiyuan 321, we analyzed this cultivar and its parents by isozyme and RAPD techniques. The main results are as follows: (1) Esterase isozyme analysis showed that there was one specific band among cultivar Suiyuan 321 and its parents, G. thurberi and G. barbadense; (2) Six specific DNA fragments amplified by 4 primers were found among cultivar Shiyuan 321 and its parents G. barbadense, G. thurberi; (3) By comparing RAPD differences among Shiyuan 321 and its parents, it is indicated that the genetic heterogeneity of cultivar Shiyuan 321 is very high at its genomic DNA level. The above results proved that Shiyuan 321 is a trispecific cultivar from G. barbadense x G. thurberi x G. hirsutum as well as a new germplasm.

[Introduction of rabbit defensin NP-1 gene into poplar (P. tomentosa) by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation]

Rabbit defensin NP-1 possesses a broad resistant spectrum to pathogens. In this work, we have transferred the NP-1 gene into poplar plants by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. PCR amplification and Southern analysis showed that rabbit defensin NP-1 gene was integrated into the poplar genome. The transformation efficiency is about 15.6%. Antimicrobial activity test showed that the extract of transgenic plants inhibited the growth of the tested microbes.

[Scanning electron microscope observation on endosperm starch grain characters in multiplasmic maize]

In this article, endosperm starch grains of eleven lines in multiplasmic maize were studied by scanning electron microscope. The results show that different cytoplasm has different effects on the characters of starch grain. The starch grains of three sweet corn cytoplasmic lines (su1, sh2, btl) are mainly spherical and packed tightly, which means they have some degree of similarity. While the grains of four cytolasmic male sterility lines (T, S, C, 21A) are mostly irregular and packed loosely except (T) Mo17, in which grains are tightly packed. The average diameter of these eleven varieties is ranged from 9.78 microns to 14.69 microns. Through the study of endosperm starch grain shape and size, we tried to explore the relationship between the property of starches and the quality of seeds. And this will significantly prompt the development of maize genetics and breeding.

A clinical, endoscopic and pathological study of ulcer-carcinoma: report of 210 cases

A multicentre retrospective study of ulcer-carcinoma was carried out in 16 hospitals in China, with the aim of examining the correlation between pre-cancerous lesions and malignant change associated with benign gastric ulcer. Malignant change occurred at 2% over a variable period of 6 months to 15 years. About two-thirds of the ulcer cancers were found to be tubular adenocarcinoma.

Localization of the 230-kilodalton bullous pemphigoid antigen in cultured keratinocytes: formation of a prehemidesmosome

The hemidesmosome is the major attachment structure of the epidermal basal cell visible ultrastructurally in skin. The importance of its components to cultured cell attachment to substratum is not understood, however. A component of the hemidesmosome, the 230-kDa bullous pemphigoid antigen (p230), has been shown to be present in an insoluble or particulate fraction of cultured cells. In order to more fully characterize its potential importance for cell-matrix adhesion in cultured keratinocytes, specific antibodies were raised to the C-terminal region of p230 expressed as a bacterial fusion protein. Such antibodies recognize the hemidesmosome of epidermis, binding on the cytoplasmic region of its plaque. In addition, keratinocytes cultured in a 0.15 mM Ca(2+)-defined medium contain a detergent-resistant pool of p230 which appears to lie in the same focal plane as the culture substrate and has a patchy or irregular distribution by indirect immunofluorescence. Treatment of cultured cells at 4 degrees C with trypsin or pronase sufficient to release keratinocytes from the culture dish does not affect the electrophoretic migration of p230 on SDS-gels, suggesting that p230 is not exposed to the extracellular space. In cells cultured in 0.15 mM Ca2+, 230-kDa BP antigen is localized to discrete clusters resting near the basal plasma membrane of the cell by immunogold staining following brief detergent treatment and fixation. These clusters are approximately 0.1 micron in diameter, which is similar in size to the in vivo hemidesmosome. Fully formed electron dense hemidesmosomal plaques are not observed under the same culture conditions, however. It appears that these clusters are early precursors of the hemidesmosome.

Clinicopathological analysis of causes of perinatal death

The perinatal mortality rates and causes of deaths in our hospital within the three 5-year periods (1955-1959, 1976-1980, 1981-1985) were reported as well as the total number of births (16,846), deaths (457), and autopsies (393, autopsy rate 85.9%). The perinatal mortality for the three 5-year periods was 44.5%, 23.8%, and 17.2% respectively; it declined more significantly in 1981-1985 than in 1976-1980. Anoxia was the first cause of death for the three 5-year periods. Other causes in sequence in 1955-1959 were traumatic intracranial hemorrhage and pulmonary diseases, in 1976-1980 malformation and pulmonary diseases, and in 1981-1985 anoxia, pulmonary diseases and hyaline membrane disease. Results suggest that accurate analysis of causes of deaths depends on meticulous systematic fetal and neonatal autopsy, including macerated fetuses, extensive discussion by pathologists, obstetricians and neonatalogists, and indispensable placental examination.