Dose-response formation of N7-(3-benzo[1,3]dioxol-5-yl-2-hydroxypropyl)guanine in liver and urine correlates with micronucleated reticulocyte frequencies in mice administered safrole oxide

Safrole oxide (SAFO), a metabolite of naturally occurring hepatocarcinogen safrole, is implicated in causing DNA adduct formation. Our previous study first detected the most abundant SAFO-induced DNA adduct, N7-(3-benzo[1,3] dioxol-5-yl-2-hydroxypropyl)guanine (N7γ-SAFO-G), in mouse urine using a well-developed isotope-dilution high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (ID-HPLC-ESI-MS/MS) method. This study further elucidated the genotoxic mode of action of SAFO in mice treated with SAFO 30, 60, 90, or 120 mg/kg for 28 days. The ID-HPLC-ESI-MS/MS method detected N7γ-SAFO-G with excellent sensitivity and specificity in mouse liver and urine of SAFO-treated mice. Our data provide the first direct evidence of SAFO-DNA adduct formation in rodent tissues. N7γ-SAFO-G levels in liver were significantly increased by SAFO 120 mg/kg compared with SAFO 30 mg/kg, suggesting rapid spontaneous or enzymatic depurination of N7γ-SAFO-G in tissue DNA. Urinary N7γ-SAFO-G exhibited a sublinear dose response. Moreover, the micronucleated peripheral reticulocyte frequencies increased dose-dependently and significantly correlated with N7γ-SAFO-G levels in liver (r = 0.8647; p < 0.0001) and urine (r = 0.846; p < 0.0001). Our study suggests that safrole-mediated genotoxicity may be caused partly by its metabolic activation to SAFO and that urinary N7γ-SAFO-G may serve as a chemically-specific cancer risk biomarker for safrole exposure.

Switchable terahertz orbital angular momentum Bessel beams based on spin-decoupled multifunctional reflective metasurfaces

In this study, switchable terahertz (THz) multi-orbital angular momentum (OAM) Bessel beams (BBs) were developed based on a spin-decoupled reflective multifunctional metasurface (MTS). Switchability was achieved by switching the feed between left-hand circular polarization (LCP), right-hand circular polarization (RCP), and linear polarization (LP) incidences. A switchable physical model was established for calculating the beam direction, OAM mode, polarization, and non-diffractive distance of the outgoing BBs. As an example, a spin-decoupled MTS was designed to generate dual BBs under LCP incidence, which was subsequently switched to RCP or LP for switchability. The outgoing BBs could be switched among three types of beams: Type-1 under LCP incidence (LCP, θL = 40°, φL = 0°, lL = 1, dL = 18 cm) and (RCP, θR = -40°, φR = 0°, lR = -1, dR = 20 cm); Type-2 under RCP incidence (RCP, θR = 40°, φR = 0°, lR = 1, dR = 18 cm) and (LCP, θL = -19°, φL = 0°, lL = 3, dL = 16.4 cm); and Type-3 under LP incidence (LP, θ = 40°, φ = 0°, l = 1, d = 18 cm), (RCP, θR = -40°, φR = 0°, lR = -1, dR = 20 cm) and (LCP, θL = -19°, φL = 0°, lL = 3, dL = 16.4 cm). Compared with previous MTSs, the proposed spin-decoupled MTS has the advantages of switchability among BBs, high non-diffractive distance/aperture size ratio of 15, large beam deflection angle of up to 40°, and high BB conversion efficiency of up to 96%. The simulated results were consistent with those calculated using the physical model, thus validating the physical model. The designed switchable BBs have potential THz near-field applications, such as high-capacity near-field wireless communications, wireless power transfer, high-resolution imaging, non-destructive testing, and speed detection of high-speed rotating objects.

[Early results of modified Bikini approach periacetabular osteotomy for the treatment of developmental hip dysplasia under 50 years of age]

Objective: To investigate the efficacy and safety of modified Bikini approach periacetabular osteotomy in the treatment of developmental hip dysplasia under 50 years of age. Methods: The clinical data of 39 patients with developmental hip dysplasia who underwent periacetabular osteotomy in the Department of Orthopedics, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital from June 2016 to June 2021 were retrospectively analyzed.Among them, 20 patients (21 hips) underwent the improved Bikini approach (study group) and 19 patients (20 hips) underwent the improved Smith-Petersen approach (control group).In the study group, there were 3 males and 17 females, aged(M(IQR))27.5 (14.3) years (range:11 to 44 years).In the control group, there were 2 males and 17 females, aged 27.5 (19.3) years (range:17 to 47 years).Both groups were sutured in the same manner by the same physician.Incision length, operation time, intraoperative blood loss and complications were recorded.X-ray images, anterior central marginal angle (ACE), lateral central marginal Angle (LCE) and acetabulum tilt angle (Tonnis AI) were measured before and after the operation.The coverage rate of acetabulum to femoral head (AHI) was measured and calculated, and the healing time was observed.Harris Hip score, International Hip score (IHOT)-12 and visual analogue scale (VAS) were recorded before and after surgery.Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) score and patient and observer scar assessment scale (POSAS) score were recorded 12 months after surgery.The independent sample t test,Wilcoxon rank sum test, χ2 test or Fisher exact test were used to compare the clinical efficacy between the two groups. Results: All patients successfully completed the operation.There was no significant difference in operation time and intraoperative blood loss between the two groups (all P>0.05).The incision length of the study group was smaller than that of the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (10.5(5.0)cm vs.15.0(3.0),W=309.000,P=0.007).Patients were followed up for (19.1±11.1) months (range:12 to 60 months).Femoral nerve stretching injury occurred in 2 cases and sciatic branch fracture occurred in 1 case in the study group, all of which recovered to normal at 3 months follow-up, while no corresponding injury occurred in the control group.Lateral femoral cutaneous nerve injury occurred in 3 cases in the study group and 2 cases in the control group.Delayed wound healing occurred in 1 case in each of the two groups, and both healed after re-operation debridement and suture.Pubic branch nonunion occurred in 4 patients in the study group and 5 patients in the control group.There were no serious complications such as sciatic nerve and femoral blood vessel injury between the 2 groups, and there was no statistical significance in the incidence of complications between the 2 groups (52.4%(11/21)vs.40.0%(8/20),χ2=0.631,P=0.427).The clinical healing time of the patient was (4.5±1.3) months after surgery (range:3.0 to 8.0 months).There were no significant differences in ACE, LCE, Tonnis AI and AHI between the 2 groups (all P>0.05).At the last follow-up, there were no significant differences in VAS,Harris hip score and IHOT-12 score between the two groups (all P>0.05).The incision scars in the study group were smaller than those in the control group, and the differences in VSS and POSAS were statistically significant (all P<0.05). Conclusion: Compared with the improved Smith-Petersen approach, the improved Bikini approach has the same early clinical efficacy in the treatment of patients with developmental hip dysplasia under the age of 50, and has the advantages of smaller postoperative incision scars, more hidden and beautiful incision, and no serious complications, which is worthy of further study and promotion.

[Mammary myofibroblastoma: a clinicopathological analysis of fifteen cases]

Objective: To investigate the clinicopathological features, diagnosis and differential diagnosis of breast myofibroblastoma. Methods: The clinicopathological data and prognostic information of 15 patients with breast myofibroblastoma diagnosed at the Department of Pathology of the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China from 2014 to 2022 were collected. Their clinical characteristics, histological subtypes, immunophenotypes and molecular characteristics were analyzed. Results: There were 12 female and 3 male patients, ranging in age from 18 to 78 years, with a median and average age of 52 years. There were 6 cases in the left breast and 9 cases in the right breast, including 12 cases in outer upper quadrant, 2 cases in inner upper quadrant and 1 case in outer lower quadrant. Most of the cases showed a well-defined nodule grossly, including pushing growth under the microscope in 13 cases, being completely separated from the surrounding breast tissue in 1 case, and infiltrating growth in 1 case. Among them, 12 cases were classic subtype and composed of occasional spindle cells with varying intervals of collagen fiber bundles; eight cases had a small amount of fat; one case had focal cartilage differentiation; one case was epithelioid subtype, in which epithelioid tumor cells were scattered in single filing or small clusters; one case was schwannoma-like subtype, and the tumor cells were arranged in a significant palisade shape, resembling schwannoma, and one case was invasive leiomyoma-like subtype, in which the tumor cells had eosinophilic cytoplasm and were arranged in bundles, and infiltrating into the surrounding mammary lobules like leiomyoma. Immunohistochemical studies showed that the tumor cells expressed desmin (14/15) and CD34 (14/15), as well as ER (15/15) and PR (15/15). Three cases with histologic subtypes of epithelioid subtype, schwannoma-like subtype and infiltrating leiomyoma-like subtype showed RB1 negative immunohistochemistry. Then FISH was performed to detect RB1/13q14 gene deletion, and identified RB1 gene deletion in all three cases. Fifteen cases were followed up for 2-100 months, and no recurrence was noted. Conclusions: Myofibroblastoma is a rare benign mesenchymal tumor of the breast. In addition to the classic type, there are many histological variants, among which the epithelioid subtype is easily confused with invasive lobular carcinoma. The schwannoma-like subtype is similar to schwannoma, while the invasive subtype is easily misdiagnosed as fibromatosis-like or spindle cell metaplastic carcinoma. Therefore, it is important to recognize the various histological subtypes and clinicopathological features of the tumor for making correct pathological diagnosis and rational clinical treatment.

Simultaneous toxicokinetic studies of aristolochic acid I and II and aristolactam I and II using a newly-developed microdialysis liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

Aristolochic acids (AAs) are naturally occurring genotoxic carcinogens linked to Balkan endemic nephropathy and aristolochic acid nephropathy. Aristolochic acid I and II (AA-I and AA-II) are the most abundant AAs, and AA-I has been reported to be more genotoxic and nephrotoxic than AA-II. The study aimed to explore metabolic differences underlying the differential toxicity. We developed a novel microdialysis sampling coupled with solid-phase extraction liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (MD-SPE-LC-MS/MS) to simultaneously study the toxicokinetics (TK) of AA-I and AA-II and their corresponding aristolactams (AL-I and AL-II) in the blood of Sprague Dawley rats co-treated with AA-1 and AA-II. Near real-time monitoring of these analytes in the blood of treated rats revealed that AA-I was absorbed, distributed, and eliminated more rapidly than AA-II. Moreover, the metabolism efficiency of AA-I to AL-I was higher compared to AA-II to AL-II. Only 0.58% of AA-I and 0.084% of AA-II was reduced to AL-I and AL-II, respectively. The findings are consistent with previous studies and support the contention that differences in the in vivo metabolism of AA-I and AA-II may be critical factors for their differential toxicities.

[Significance of preventing developmental origins of diseases in improving population quality]

More studies show that various diseases, especially chronic non-infectious diseases, have developmental origin. Developmental origins of diseases are mainly due to gametes and early life development stage being exposed to adverse environment, resulting in abnormal modification of epigenetic and stable inheritance to the adult stage, which could make the risk of various long-term diseases of individuals high. The theory of developmental origin provides a new perspective for the occurrence and development of diseases, and also provides a theoretical basis for disease prevention. Attaching importance to maternal and child health care and life-cycle management is conducive to the prevention of developmental diseases and is of great significance to the improvement of population quality.

Reconfigurable reflective multifunction OAM metasurface based on spin-decoupling

This Letter develops a spin-decoupled reconfigurable reflective orbital angular momentum (OAM) metasurface (MTS). The reconfigurability is realized by switching the feed among left-hand circular polarization (LHCP), right-hand circular polarization (RHCP), and linear polarization (LP) incidences, and the reconfigurable design principle is provided. This Letter also proposes a design method for the desired energy ratio between the co-polarized and cross-polarized beams. Compared with published multifunction MTSs, the designed MTSs have the following advantages: multi-polarizations, arbitrary beam numbers and modes, composite waveform (pencil and OAM beams), high aperture efficiency (21.1%, 14.6%, 6.63% for RHCP, LP, and LHCP incidences, respectively), high purity (above 92.41%), required energy distribution ratio, and reconfigurability. The MTSs have potential prospects in high-capacity wireless communications.

Vegetarian Diet Was Associated With a Lower Risk of Chronic Kidney Disease in Diabetic Patients

Introduction

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a pathological hyperglycemic state related to the dysregulation of insulin. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common chronic complication in diabetic patients. A vegetarian diet could be one of the preventive strategies for the occurrence of CKD in patients with diabetes mellitus. However, it is still unknown whether a vegetarian diet lowers the occurrence of CKD in DM patients.

Research Design and Methods

This retrospective study was conducted at Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital from 5 September 2005 to 31 December 2016. Subjects with an HbA1c level > 6.5% or previous history of diabetes mellitus elder than 40 years were grouped based on self-reported dietary habits (vegetarians, lacto-ovo vegetarians and omnivores) in the structured questionnaire. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was applied to estimate the direct and indirect effects of variables on the occurrence of chronic kidney disease.

Results

Among these 2,797 subjects, the participants were grouped into dietary habits as vegans (n = 207), lacto-ovo vegetarians (n = 941) and omnivores (n = 1,649). The incidence of overall CKD was higher in the omnivore group [36.6% vs 30.4% (vegans) and 28.5% (lacto-ovo vegetarian), p < 0.001]. In the SEM model, after adjusting for age and sex, the lacto-ovo vegetarian [OR: 0.68, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.57–0.82] and vegan groups (OR 0.68, 95% CI: 0.49–0.94) were both associated with a lower risk of CKD occurrence than the omnivore group. The vegan diet and lacto-ovo diet lowered the risk related to a high BMI (OR: 0.45, p < 0.001, OR: 0.58, p < 0.001) and hyperuricemia (OR: 0.53, p < 0.001; OR: 0.55, p < 0.001) for the occurrence of CKD.

Conclusion

Vegetarian dietary habits were associated with a lower occurrence of CKD in DM patients.

Combined Acupoints for the Treatment of Patients with Obesity: An Association Rule Analysis

Obesity is a prevalent metabolic disease that increases the risk of other diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. A meta-analysis of 11 randomized sham-controlled trials indicates that acupuncture had adjuvant benefits in improving simple obesity, and previous studies have reported that acupoint combinations were more useful than single-acupoint therapy. The Apriori algorithm, a data mining-based analysis that finds potential correlations in datasets, is broadly applied in medicine and business. This study, based on the Apriori algorithm-based association rule analysis, found the association rules of acupoints among 11 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). There were 23 acupoints extracted from 11 RCTs. We used Python to calculate the association between acupoints and disease. We found the top 10 frequency acupoints were Extra12, TF4, LI4, LI11, ST25, ST36, ST44, CO4, CO18, and CO1. We investigated the 1118 association rule and found that {LI4, ST36} ≥ {ST44}, {LI4, ST44} ≥ {ST36}, and {ST36, ST44} ≥ {LI4} were the most associated rules in the data. Acupoints, including LI4, ST36, and ST44, are the core acupoint combinations in the treatment of simple obesity.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine Integrated With Conventional Rehabilitation for Post-stroke Functional Recovery: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background

Stroke leads to tremendous impacts on patients and the healthcare system. It is crucial to explore the potential management of rehabilitation. Acupuncture and traditional Chinese herbal medicine (TCHM) integrated with conventional rehabilitation benefit post-stroke functional recovery.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all patients included in the Integrated Traditional Chinese-Western Medicine care program for stroke (ITCWM-stroke care program) in 2019 in Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital to investigate the effects of acupuncture and TCHM integrated with conventional rehabilitation on National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and Barthel Index (BI) scores before and after the program.

Results

A total of 255 stroke inpatients were retrieved and divided into acupuncture and acupuncture + TCHM group by hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke types, respectively. All the patients were recruited in the program at the early subacute phase after stroke onset. Of the hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke subjects, the NIHSS and BI total scores were significantly improved in the acupuncture and acupuncture + TCHM groups. The subgroup analysis results showed that in subjects with a baseline BI score ≤ 40, the acupuncture + TCHM group significantly improved BI total score better than the acupuncture group in both hemorrhagic (p < 0.05) and ischemic (p < 0.05) stroke subjects.

Conclusion

Acupuncture and TCHM integrated with conventional rehabilitation significantly improve stroke patients’ functional recovery at the early subacute phase. Acupuncture + TCHM contributes to better activities of daily living (ADL) improvements in stroke patients with a baseline BI score ≤ 40. We suggest integrating acupuncture and TCHM into the post-stroke rehabilitation strategy, especially for stroke patients with poor ADL function.

[Clinicopathological characteristics of natural killer cell enteropathy: report of two cases and review of literature]

Objective: To study the clinicopathological and genetic features of natural killer (NK)-cell enteropathy for better understanding of this rare disease and prevention of its misdiagnosis. Methods: Two cases of NK-cell enteropathy were diagnosed in the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, China from October 2017 to February 2021. The clinical characteristics, morphology, immunohistochemistry, Epstein-Barr virus-encoded RNA (EBER) in situ hybridization and T cell receptor gene rearrangement were analyzed. The patients were followed up by a telephone interview. Results: The patients were both male, aged 40 and 28 years, respectively. Both patients were admitted to the hospital for an annual checkup without obvious gastrointestinal symptoms. The endoscopy showed that the gastric body of case 1 had a mucosal bulge, small area of congestion and erosion, while the rectum of case 2 had congestion and erosion. Microscopically, the lesions of the 2 cases were relatively limited. Many lymphoid cells infiltrated within the lamina propria of the mucosa and into the muscularis mucosa in case 2. In case 1, the glands were reduced in the lesion, and the glandular cavity was slightly compressed and deformed. There was no infiltration or destruction of the glands in either case. Lymphoid cells were atypical, with medium-to-large cell sizes. Their cytoplasm was medium-to-slightly abundant and appeared eosinophilic or translucent. In case 2, characteristic eosinophilic granules were seen in the cytoplasm of a few cells. The nuclei in both cases were round, oval and irregular, with fine chromatin, inconspicuous nucleoli, and no mitotic figures were noted. Necrosis was seen in case 1 while both cases had no central growth or destruction of blood vessels. Immunophenotyping showed that CD56, granzyme B and TIA-1 were positive in both cases, part of the cells was CD3-positive, and some cells were weakly CD4-positive in case 2. The CD5, CD8, CD30, ALK and B-lineage markers (CD20, CD79α) were all negative. The Ki-67 proliferation index was about 60% and 30%, respectively. Both cases were EBER negative. TCR gene rearrangement was polyclonal. Follow-up showed that none of the 2 patients had any special treatments and stayed well. Conclusions: NK-cell enteropathy is rare, with biological behaviors similar to benign tumors, and occasional recurrence. Its histology and immunophenotype are easily confused with NK/T cell-derived lymphomas. Combination of its unique endoscopic features, EBER negativity, polyclonal TCR gene rearrangement and good prognosis can confirm the diagnosis and avoid misdiagnosis and overtreatment.

Platycodin D alleviates proliferation and extracellular matrix accumulation in TGF-beta1 induced pulmonary fibroblasts

AIM

Platycodin D (PD), an oleanane kind of triterpenoid saponin, possesses various pharmacological activities. We aimed to investigate the effects of PD in pulmonary fibrosis.

METHOD

MRC-5 cells were induced by transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1) to simulate the pulmonary fibrosis in vitro. Cell viability was determined using a CCK-8 kit in the absence or presence of PD. Then, the expression of proliferation-related proteins was detected using immunofluorescence assay or western blot analysis. Moreover, the levels of inflammatory factors were examined. Subsequently, the ability of cell migration was evaluated using wound healing assay. Additionally, western blot analysis was employed to determine migration- and extracellular matrix accumulation (ECM)-related proteins expression.

RESULTS

Results indicated that PD exposure significantly dose-dependently inhibited TGF-β1 induced proliferation in MRC-5 cells. Additionally, the contents of inflammatory factors were notably inhibited with PD treatment. Furthermore, significant decrease in migration of TGF-β1-stimulated MRC-5 cells was observed after PD intervention. Afterwards, PD remarkably suppressed the expression of alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen I (Col I), collagen III (Col III) and E-cadherin (E-cad).

CONCLUSIONS

PD attenuated proliferation and ECM accumulation in TGF-β1 induced lung fibroblasts, providing experimental support for the clinical application of PD in the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis (Fig. 6, Ref. 33).

Single-layer dual-frequency unit for multifunction OAM reflectarray applications at the microwave range

This Letter presents a single-layer, dual-frequency unit for generating orbital angular momentum (OAM) in the microwave range. The unit cell consists of a square frame and two concentric rings with branches. The developed units can produce multifunctional OAM with required OAM mode, beam number, and direction. To demonstrate this versatility, three reflectarrays operating at dual frequencies are designed, and one is fabricated and measured to validate the design. The reflectarray has the following advantages: high gain (15.4dBi at 10 GHz, 20.3dBi at 20 GHz), high aperture efficiency (13.53% at 10 GHz, 10.33% at 20 GHz), low divergence angle (7.5°at 10 GHz, 6° at 20 GHz), small size, and compactness in the form of a single-layer structure. The designed multifunctional reflectarray has potential applications in remote sensing, point-to-point communication, satellite communications, and others.

Expression and prognostic significance of melatonin receptor MT1 in patients with gastric adenocarcinoma

Melatonin receptor type 1 (MTNR1A or MT1) is known to play an important role in cancer progression; however, its prognostic value for resected gastric adenocarcinoma (RGA) is unknown. In this study, we examined the potential of MT1 as a prognostic biomarker for RGA. The expression of the MT1 was evaluated in 67 patients with RGA by immunohistochemistry, and the relationship between MT1 levels and RGA prognosis was analyzed by Chi-square test, multivariate Cox regression, Kaplan-Meier method, and log-rank test. High MT1 expression was associated with a poor survival rate (29.0%, p=0.002) and the occurrence of metastasis (62.9%, p=0.004). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and log rank tests revealed that patients with high expression of the MT1 had significantly shorter median overall survival compared to those with low expression (33.0 vs. 65.0 months, respectively; p=0.02). Multivariate Cox analysis indicated that the calculated death risk (hazard ratio [HR]) in patients with high expression levels of the MT1 increased to 2.68 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.21-5.94, p=0.015), which was higher compared to those with low levels. HR of death was also high in patients with advanced T stage (2.51; 95 % CI 1.00-6.26, p=0.049) and metastasis (5.02; 95% CI 1.94-13.03, p=0.001). Our results showed that high MT1 expression in primary gastric adenocarcinoma tissues was associated with the occurrence of metastasis and poor prognosis. It may have prognostic significance as a potential biomarker in patients with RGA.

Asatone Prevents Acute Lung Injury by Reducing Expressions of NF-κB, MAPK and Inflammatory Cytokines

Asatone is an active component extracted from the Chinese herb Radix et Rhizoma Asari. Our preliminary studies have indicated that asatone has an anti-inflammatory effect on RAW 264.7 culture cells challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Acute lung injury (ALI) has high morbidity and mortality rates due to the onset of serious lung inflammation and edema. Whether asatone prevents ALI LPS-induced requires further investigation. In vitro studies revealed that asatone at concentrations of 2.5–20[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/mL drastically prevented cytotoxicity and concentration-dependently reduced NO production in the LPS-challenged macrophages. In an in vivo study, the intratracheal administration of LPS increased the lung wet/dry ratio, myeloperoxidase activity, total cell counts, white blood cell counts, NO, iNOS, COX, TNF-[Formula: see text], IL-1[Formula: see text], and IL-6 in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid as well as mitogen-activated protein kinases in the lung tissues. Pretreatment with asatone could reverse all of these effects. Asatone markedly reduced the levels of TNF-[Formula: see text] and IL-6 in the lung and liver, but not in the kidney of mice. By contrast, LPS reduced anti-oxidative enzymes and inhibited NF-[Formula: see text]B activations, whereas asatone increased anti-oxidative enzymes in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and NF-[Formula: see text]B activations in the lung tissues. Conclusively, asatone can prevent ALI through various anti-inflammatory modalities, including the major anti-inflammatory pathways of NF-[Formula: see text]B and mitogen-activated protein kinases. These findings suggest that asatone can be applied in the treatment of ALI.

[Effect of valsartan on the expression of leptin, leptin receptor and collagen in rats with hepatic fibrosis]

Objective: To investigate the effects of angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist valsartan on leptin, leptin receptor and collagen in rats with hepatic fibrosis. Methods: Thirty-six male wistar rats were randomly divided into control group, model group and drug-treated group, with 12 rats in each group. Liver fibrosis models were made by subcutaneous injection of carbon tetrachloride on the dorsal of the rats, simultaneously gastric gavage with Valsartan and were killed at the end of 8th week. The degree of liver fibrosis was observed by HE and Masson staining. The serum leptin (LP) and TGFβ1 were determined by ELISA. Liver LP mRNA and leptin receptor mRNA (OB-R mRNA) were detected by RT-PCR. Liver LP, OB-R and collagen I were detected by Western blot. The data of multiple groups were analyzed by one-way analysis variance (ANOVA), and linear correlation was performed between serum LP and TGF β1. Results: After the intervention of valsartan, HE and Masson staining showed that the degree of liver fibrosis was significantly reduced. The levels of serum LP and TGFβ1 in the control group were (18.92 ± 7.10) ng/ml and (9.13 ± 1.58) pg/ml respectively, which were significantly lower than those in the model group (46.92 ± 28.54) ng/ml and (16.39 ± 3.56) pg/ml, And (29.27 ± 7.27) ng/ml and (12.24 ± 2.94) pg/ml in the drug-treated group, respectively. The F values were 7.864 and 20.057 respectively. The P values were < 0.05. The differences were statistically significant. The relative expression levels of LP and OB-R mRNA in the control group were 0.35 ± 0.18 and 0.62 ± 0.18, respectively, which were significantly lower than those in the model group (1.79 ± 1.79 and 1.52 ± 1.44, and drug-treated group 0.48 ± 0.34 and 0.75 ± 0.26, respectively), F values = 6.914,3.894, P values were < 0.05, the differences were statistically significant. The relative expression levels of LP, OB-R and collaten I in liver were 0.71 ± 0.13, 0.81 ± 0.11 and 0.76 ± 0.13 in the model group, 0.97 ± 0.06, 1.04 ± 0.06, and 1.05 ± 0.04 respectively in the drug-treated group and 0.74 ± 0.05, 0.93 ± 0.05 and 0.91 ± 0.05. The F values were 15.425, 13.757 and 19.130 respectively in three groups (P < 0.001), the difference was statistically significant. Conclusion: Valsartan, an angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist, can reduce the expression of leptin and leptin receptor, reduce the production of TGFβ1 and collaten I, and play an anti-hepatic fibrosis effect.

[Effect of HIF-2α on the biological characteristics of breast cancer stem cells]

Objective: To explore the effect of hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-2α on biological characteristics of breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). Methods: Stem cells were isolated and purified from MCF-7 cells by using the immunomagnetic microbeads. HIF-2α ORF/shRNA lentiviral vectors were transduced into MCF-7 stem cells respectively, and then the stable stem cell lines were detected and gained. Using the method of Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and flow cytometry, the effect of HIF-2α on cell vitality and apoptosis of MCF-7 cancer stem cells (CSCs) were tested. Serum-free suspension culture was used on MCF-7 cells to get breast CSCs microspheres. The expression of CD44(+) in different groups were detected by flow cytometry. Tumor-bearing nude mice model was established to compare tumor growth rate and pulmonary metastasis probability of MCF-7 CSC HIF-2α knock up/down in vivo. Results: Compared with MCF-7 CSC group, the apoptosis rate of MCF-7 CSCs HIF-2α knockup group decreased obviously and cell proliferation activity increased significantly (all P<0.05). However, the MCF-7 CSCs HIF-2α knock down group had the opposite trend. Results of flow cytometry showed that the proportion of CD44(+) cells in HIF-2α knock up group(93.0%)was much higher than MCF-7 group(83.8%)and MCF-7 HIF-2α knock down group(51.6%). The tumor growth rate, quality and lung metastasis rate of MCF-7 CSC HIF-2α knock up group were significantly higher than those in MCF-7 CSCs group and MCF-7 CSCs HIF-2α knock down group (P<0.01). Conclusions: In hypoxic microenvironment, up-regulation of HIF-2αpromoted the formation of MCF-7 CSCs. Over-expression of HIF-2α can promote proliferation and inhibit apoptosis of MCF-7 CSCs, and thus increase the risk of tumorigenic ablility and pulmonary metastasis.

Suppression of microRNA-9-5p rescues learning and memory in chronic cerebral hypoperfusion rats model

Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion has been associated with cognitive impairment in dementias, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular disease (VaD), the two most common neurodegenerative diseases in aged people. However, the effective therapeutic approaches for both AD and VaD are still missing. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that play important roles in the epigenetic regulation in many neurological disorders; the critical roles of miRNAderegulation had been implicated in both AD and VaD. In the current study, we reported that miR-9-5p is elevated in the serum and cerebrospinalfluid of patientswith VaD. The miR-9-5p wasalso increased in both the hippocampus and cortex of rats with 2-vessel occlusionsurgery. Furthermore, application ofmiR-9-5p antagomirs attenuated the memory impairments in rats with 2-vessel occlusion surgery both in the Morris water maze and inhibitory avoidance step-down tasks. Furthermore, miR-9-5p antagomirs reducedthe inhibition oflong-term potentiation and loss of dendritic spines in chronic cerebral hypoperfusionrats. Additionally, the cholinergic neuronal function was rescued by miR-9-5p antagomirs, as well as the neuronal loss and the oxidative stress. We concluded that miR-9-5p inhibition may be a potential therapeutic target for the memory impairments caused by chronic cerebral hypoperfusion.

[Clinical observation and related factors analysis of neonatal asphyxia complicated with retinal hemorrhage]

Objective: To observe and analyze related factors of neonatal asphyxia complicated with retinal hemorrhage. Methods: It was a retrospective case series. Seven hundred and twenty-one cases with neonatal asphyxia after 72 hours of birth were enrolled in this study. Fundus examination was performed on these newborns using the third generation wide-angle digital retina imaging system (RetCamⅢ), and the bleeding level was divided into level I, level Ⅱ and level Ⅲ. The conditions of the newborn and the mother during pregnancy were correlatively analyzed. The other factors were also analyzed including delivery mode, birth weight, gestational age, gender, grade of neonatal asphyxia, scalp hematoma, intracranial hemorrhage, fetal intrauterine distress, mother's age and antenatal complications. Single factor χ(2) test and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to screen and judge risk factors causing retinal hemorrhage related to neonatal asphyxia. Results: In 721 cases of neonatal asphyxia, retinal hemorrhage was found in 204 newborns (28.29%). The hemorrhage was at level Ⅰ in 77 cases (37.75%) , at level Ⅱ in 38 cases (18.63%) and at level Ⅲ in 89 cases (43.63%) . Four cases also had vitreous hemorrhage. Asphyxia was mild in 673 infants (93.34%) and severe in 48 infants (6.66%). The difference in the degree of retinal hemorrhage between the patients with mild and severe asphyxia was significant (χ(2)=22.336, P=0.000). When asphyxia was aggravated, the degree of retinal hemorrhage increased. Relative factors analysis showed that delivery mode (χ(2)=158.643, P<0.05), gestational age (χ(2)=24.522, P<0.05), birth weight (χ(2)=11.916, P<0.05) and grade of neonatal asphyxia (χ(2)=19.809, P<0.05) had correlations with retinal hemorrhage. Logistic regression analysis indicated that grade of neonatal asphyxia and delivery mode were risk factors of retinal hemorrhage in neonatal asphyxia (OR=0.304, 0.085). Conclusion: The incidence of retinal hemorrhage in neonatal asphyxia was 28.29%. The degree of neonatal asphyxia and delivery mode may play roles in the occurrence of retinal hemorrhage in newborns with asphyxia. With aggravation of asphyxia, the degree of retinal hemorrhage may increase. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2017, 53: 358-362).

Exploration of anti-cancer effects and mechanisms of Zuo-Jin-Wan and its alkaloid components in vitro and in orthotopic HepG2 xenograft immunocompetent mice

BACKGROUND

Zuo-Jin-Wan (ZJW), a two-herb formula consisting of Coptis chinensis (CC) and Evodia rutaecarpa (ER), is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of cancers. However, the efficacies and mechanisms of ZJW and its alkaloid components on cancers are still unclear.

METHODS

Here we investigated the anti-cancer effects and mechanisms of ZJW, CC, ER, berberine, and evodiamine in cells and in intrahepatic xenograft mice.

RESULTS

Treatment of HepG2 cells with ZJW, CC, ER, berberine, and evodiamine significantly displayed cytotoxic effects in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Hierarchical cluster analysis of gene expression profiles showed that CC and ZJW shared a similar mechanism for the cytotoxic effects, suggesting that CC was the active ingredient of ZJW for anti-cancer activity. Network analysis further showed that c-myc was the likely key molecule involved in the regulation of ZJW-affected gene expression. A human hepatoma xenograft model was established by intrahepatic injection of HepG2 cells containing nuclear factor-κB-driven luciferase genes in immunocompetent mice. In vivo bioluminescence imaging showed that cells had been successfully transplanted in mouse liver. Oral administration of ZJW for 28 consecutive days led to a significant decrease in the accumulation of ascites, the ratio of tumor-to-liver, and the number of transplanted cells in livers.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, our findings suggested for the first time that ZJW significantly suppressed human cancer cell growth in orthotopic HepG2 xenograft-bearing immunocompetent mice. Moreover, c-myc might play a potent role in the cytotoxic mechanisms of ZJW, CC, ER, berberine, and evodiamine.

[Noninvasive diagnostic and predictive value in renal transplant recipients with acute rejection by measurement of urine Fractalkine]

Objective: To investigate the relationship between early-stage renal acute rejection(AR) and the level of Fractalkine in urine, explore the diagnostic and noninvasive monitoring value in early stage after transplantation by measurement of urine Fractalkine. Methods: Urine samples were examined from renal transplant patients between January 2006 and October 2009. A total of 155 patients were enrolled, including 49 with biopsy-proved AR, 58 patients with stable renal function and no abnormal histological findings, 10 patients with subclinical rejection in protocol biopsy, 9 patients with biopsy-proven acute tubular necrosis and 29 patients with biopsy-proven chronic allograft nephropathy. Additionally, urine samples were also collected from 40 healthy controls. Fractalkine was measured in urine samples using a commercial human Fractalkine enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. Immunohistochemistry for Fractalkine expression was performed on biopsies from renal transplant patients with AR and non-AR. Results: Forty-nine patients with AR excreted urinary Fractalkine at a significantly higher level than levels in patients with stable renal function and healthy controls[(429.1±56.1)vs (94.6±8.4), (84.5±8.9)ng/mmol creatine, both P<0.001]. Patients with AR excreted urinary Fractalkine at a significantly higher level than levels in patients with acute tubular necrosis and chronic allograft nephropathy[(429.1±56.1)vs(133.0±9.8), (183.0±18.9)ng/mmol creatine, both P<0.001]. Receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve was constructed to determine the discriminatory power of Fractalkine levels for diagnosis of AR. The area under ROC curve was 0.920(95% CI: 0.875-0.969, P<0.001), which showed that Fractalkine was a suitable marker for the diagnosis of AR. At a cut-off point of 157.5 ng/mmol creatinine, the sensitivity was 83.7% and the specificity was 84.5% (P<0.001). The dynamic level of urinary Fractalkine in AR patients within 3 weeks after transplantation fluctuated above 300 ng/mmol creatine, which is remarkably higher than patients with stable renal function (below 200 ng/mmol creatinine). Conclusions: As a noninvasive monitoring method, Fractalkine in urine may be a new approach for detection of AR as well as useful to predict response to antirejection therapy. It has good sensitivity and specificity. Besides, measurement of Fractalkine in urine is a simple, inexpensive method for the routine clinical monitoring after kidney transplantation.

[Clinical analysis of hypersensitivity reaction of platinum in ovarian cancer and cervical cancer patients]

Objective: To investigate the incidence, risk factors, management and prognosis of hypersensitivity reaction (HSR) of platinum-based chemotherapy in patients of ovarian cancer and cervical cancer. Methods: Cases from Peking Union Medical College Hospital from Jan. 2013 to Jan. 2016 were checked for patients' data of epithelial ovarian cancer treated with carboplatin/paclitaxel (every 3 weeks) and patients of cervical cancer treated with concurrent radiochemotherapy using cisplatin (every week). General characters, pathological features, treatment and prognosis of patients were analyzed to determine the severity, symptoms, outcomes and risk factors of HSR. Results: (1) Prevalence of HSR: there were 860 cases of ovarian cancer and 580 cases of cervical cancer, among which HSR occurred in 8.8% (76/860) and 5.9% (34/580) patients, respectively. (2) Grading for HSR: most HSR were grade 1 or 2, with 78.9%(60/76) in ovarian cancer and 82.4%(28/34) in cervical cancer patients. In ovarian cancer patients, there were 7 cases of grade 1 HSR and 53 cases of grade 2 HSR, and in cervical cancer patients, there were 11 cases of grade 1 HSR and 17 cases of grade 2 HSR. (3) Symptoms of HSR: most of HSR happened during intravenous infusion of platinum agents, with 98.7% (75/76) in ovarian cancer and 97.1% (33/34) in cervical cancer patients. In ovarian and cervical cancer patients, most common symptom were tight chest and dyspnea, which happened in 92.1% (70/76) and 97.1% (33/34) patients, respectively. Secondary common symptom were skin reactions, which happened in 53.9% (41/76) and 88.2% (30/34) patients respectively. (4) Treatment after HSR: of 76 ovarian cancer cases with HSR, there were no significant difference in the ratio of HSR recurrence among patients of different treatment after HSR (χ²=0.517, P=0.915): 1 of 4 patients applying prior chemotherapy, 4 of 13 cases receiving desensitization, 3 of 11 cases separating medicine, 2 of 11 patients switching to cisplatin. In 34 cervical cancer cases of HSR, there were also no significant difference in the ratio of HSR recurrence among patients of different treatment after HSR (χ²=0.079, P=1.000): 2 of 9 patients applying prior chemotherapy, 3 of 17 cases receiving desensitization. (5) Risk factors of HSR and patients prognosis: in ovarian cancer patients of HSR, risk factors included relapse (P=0.010), courses of chemotherapy reaching seven or nine for patients of primary treatment or reaching six or seven for recurrent patients (all P<0.05). There were no significant risk factors for cervical cancer patients of HSR (all P>0.05). HSR had no impact on the progression- free survival for ovarian cancer (P=0.144) or cervical cancer (P=0.782). Conclusions: In ovarian cancer patients treated with carboplatin and cervical cancer patients treated with concurrent radiochemotherapy using cisplatin, most HSR of platinum are mild and favorable outcomes. Relapse and longer chemotherapy courses are risk factors for HSR of carboplatin for epithelial ovarian cancer.

Individualized managing strategies of aggressive angiomyxoma of female genital tract and pelvis

AIMS

To investigate and evaluate the clinical management strategies of aggressive angiomyxoma (AA) in female genital tract and pelvis.

METHODS

A cohort of 13 patients with AA diagnosed and treated in Peking Union Medical College Hospital in the last 12 years was reported focusing on the results of the managements and prognosis.

RESULTS

The mean age at initial presentation was 36.9 years. The commonest site of tumor was perineum. Only two cases were accurately diagnosed as AA preoperatively by biopsy and fine needle aspiration of the tumors respectively. MRI helpfully reveals the location, relationship and degree of infiltration between tumors and pelvic organs. Surgery is the mainstay treatment. 11 of 12 patients had complete resection and majority of the operations were finished successfully through trans-perineum and trans-vagina approaches. Three cases with positive expression of ERs and PRs in the tumors received GnRHa injections which were useful preoperatively but not postoperatively. One repeatedly-recurrent case was treated with radiotherapy effectively. The recurrence rate in our study was 41.7% (5/12), with a median recurrence interval of 20.9 months. No patient developed distant metastases and died of the disease.

CONCLUSIONS

AA preferentially involves the pelvic and perineal regions of women in reproductive age. Tumor biopsy and fine-needle aspiration cytology are conducive to the preoperative diagnosis. The individualized operative strategy and awareness to protect and rebuild structure and function of the organs should be emphasized during the management of AA. Long-term follow-up is mandatory because of the high rate of recurrence.

Contributions of heme oxygenase-1 in postconditioning-protected ischemia-reperfusion injury in rat liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), an oxidative stress-response gene up-regulated by various physiological and exogenous stimuli, has cytoprotective activities. Ischemic postconditioning (Postcon) can protect an organ from ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. In the present study, we investigated the potential contributions of HO-1 to Postcon-dependent protection against I/R injury in rat liver transplantation models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups: sham group with laparotomy for liver exposure; I/R group with 24-hour cold ischemia of the donor liver; Postcon group with the same treatment as the I/R group plus ischemic Postcon; and zinc protoporphyrin (ZnPP HO-1 inhibitor) + Postcon group treated the same as the Postcon cohort with donors pretreated using ZnPP 24 hours before the I/R injury. We measured liver tissue and peripheral blood samples collected at 6 hours after reperfusion and serum transaminase levels, histopathology, liver tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) content, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and HO-1 expression in the liver.

RESULTS

Postcon significantly diminished the elevation of serum transaminases levels after I/R injury when compared with I/R and ZnPP+Postcon groups. Postcon treated rats showed significantly lower MDA production and higher SOD activity. HO-1 was induced in rat livers exposed to Postcon; its levels were obviously overexpressed after 6 hours in Postcon rats. Inhibiting the expression of HO-1, negated the protective effects of Postcon.

CONCLUSIONS

Induction of HO-1 in the Postcon condition played a protective role against hepatic I/R injury and enhanced the early antioxidative activity. The protective effects of Postcon were significantly associated with greater intrahepatic HO-1 expression.

Review of PSR framework and development of a DPSIR model to assess greenhouse effect in Taiwan

In dealing with the complex issues of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission and climate change mitigation, many interrelated factors such as cost, level of technology development, supply and demand of energy, structure of industry, and expenditures on research and development exist. Using indicators to monitor environmental impacts and evaluate the efficacies of policies and regulations has been practiced for a long time, and it can serve as a useful tool for decision making and for comparison between different countries. Although numerous indicators have been developed for relevant subjects, integrated approaches that consider individual changes, dynamic interaction, and multi-dimensions of indicators are scarce. This paper aimed to develop a Driving Force-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) framework to assess the problems. This DPSIR model is mainly related to energy consumption, environmental impacts, and policy responses. The objectives of the paper were: (1) conduct a literature review on the indicators that have been used in GHG-related studies; (2) develop a DPSIR model that incorporates GHG-related indicators and evaluate their relationships using a cause-effect chain of GHG emission; and (3) develop a calculative method that can be used to explain the dynamic correlation among the interdependent indicators. Taiwan is a significant source of global GHG emissions. A case study, using the developed framework and Taiwan's actual data of the past two decades, was conducted. The results indicate that regulatory strategies for pollution control are inadequate in terms of ensuring environmental quality, and the nature does not have the capability to revert the impacts from the existing level of pollution.

[Inhibitory effect of anluohuaxianwan on experimental hepatic fibrosis in rats]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of anluohuaqianwan on experimental hepatic fibrosis induced by dimethyl nitrosamine (DMN) in rats.

METHODS

36 male SD rats were randomly dividied into three groups: model group, normal group, anluohuaqianwan group. The rats in the three groups were treated with DMN daily for 4 weeks. The liver function was detected using auto biochemistry analyzer, the serum HA, LN, IV-C, PIIIP were detected by immunoradiometry, the histopathology was observed in the left liver lobe after HE staining, the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) in liver tissue were detected by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

The serum levels of ALT, AST, ALP, TP, ALB and the contents of HA, LN, IV-C in model group were significantly increased compared to these in the normal group (P less than 0.01). The serum levels of ALT, AST and the contents of HA in anluohuaqianwan group were significantly lower than those in the model group (P less than 0.01). The liver MMP-2 in the model group was significantly increased compared to that in the normal group (P less than 0.05). The expression of MMP-2 in liver tissue of model group was lower than that in the anluohuaqianwan group (P less than 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Anluohuaqianwan can inhibit liver fibrosis in rats induced by DMN.

Persistent vegetative state in electrical injuries: A 10-year review

We reviewed 148 cases of electrical injury admitted to our burn centre. The incidence of persistent vegetative state was 3% (n=5), higher in the low-voltage (6.7%) than in high-voltage group (1.2%). At the time of trauma, 44% (n=65) lost consciousness and 50% of these (n=32) received cardiopulmonary resuscitation on arrival at hospital. Of these, 50% recovered (n=16), 22% became comatose (n=7) and 28% (n=9) died. Of the seven comatose patients, five did not show brain oedema but remained in a persistent vegetative state; this state was more common with low-voltage electrical injuries. The public should be warned of this effect of low-voltage trauma.

Ovarian cancer in pregnancy: a clinicopathologic analysis of 22 cases and review of the literature

The aim of this study was to summarize our experience of ovarian cancer diagnosed during pregnancy, to review the literature concerned, and to discuss the rationale for therapy. Twenty-two patients of ovarian malignancies complicating pregnancy were treated at Peking Union Medical College Hospital between 1985 and 2003. Data on treatment and follow-up were reviewed, and their outcomes were analyzed by survival analysis. The incidence of ovarian carcinoma complicating pregnancy in the series was 0.073/1000 pregnancies. Nine (40.9%) were found with ovarian malignant germ cell tumors, six (27.3%) with low malignant potential tumors, five (22.7%) with invasive epithelial tumors, and two (9.1%) with sex cord stromal tumors. Sixteen (72.7%) of the patients were diagnosed in stage I and had achieved complete remission. Four of the five in advanced stage died. Ascites presenting at diagnosis implies advanced disease and gloomy prognosis. The mean follow-up was 47.8 months. The prognosis was significantly related with stage and histologic type (P < 0.05). Thirteen healthy live babies were recorded in this group, and one premature newborn died of respiratory distress syndrome. The clinical characters and prognosis of ovarian cancers complicating pregnancy are similar to those of nonpregnant, reproductive-age women. Management depends on histology of the tumor, stage of the tumor, and the term of the pregnancy. In most of cases, conservative surgical treatment could be performed with adequate staging and debulking equal to the treatment of nonpregnant women. Chemotherapy is not contraindicated during the second or third trimester, but the choice of couple must be considered.

Purging of murine erythroblastic leukemia by ZnPcS2P2-based-photodynamic therapy

A key point for successful transplantation of autologous hematopoietic stem cells in the treatment of leukemia is the purging technique, of which photodynamic therapy (PDT) proved effective and promising. The aim of this study was to evaluate the purging effect of a novel amphipathic photosensitizer, di-sulfo-di-phthalimidomethyl phthalolcyanine zinc (ZnPcS2P2)-based PDT (ZnPcS2P2-PDT) on murine erythroblastic leukemic EL9611 cells. Bone marrow cells (BMC), harvested from normal BALB/c mice, were contaminated with variable EL9611 cells. Cell suspensions were incubated with 4 microg/ml ZnPcS2P2 for 5 h and then exposed to 2.1 J/cm2 irradiation by a semiconductor laser 670 nm. Lethally irradiated recipient BALB/c mice (7 Gy) received syngeneic bone marrow transplantation with purged or nonpurged cell mixtures of 10(7) BMC contaminated with variable numbers (10(2)-10(5)) of EL9611 cells. All of the irradiated controls died due to sepsis. All of the mice injected with nonpurged cell mixtures developed leukemia and died, whereas the mice transplanted with ZnPcS2P2-PDT-treated mixtures had a longer survival time, and the fewer leukemic cells there were in the cell mixtures, the higher the leukemia-free survival rate. We conclude that ZnPcS2P2-PDT could purge leukemic cells from bone marrow autografts but could retain sufficient progenitor cells for the hematopoietic activity.

Incidence of Haemophilus influenzae type b and other invasive diseases in South Korean children

To determine incidence of invasive Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) disease in a defined population of Jeonbuk Province, Korea, children <5 years were evaluated in prospective, population-based surveillance of invasive bacterial diseases using standardized methods for patient referral, clinical evaluation and laboratory testing (optimized culture, latex agglutination, polymerase chain reaction). Vaccine utilization was assessed with vaccination histories of patients in surveillance, monthly data on Hib vaccine distribution and a coverage survey of clinic patients in study population. From September 1999 to December 2001, 2176 children were evaluated for possible meningitis, 1541 had no cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) findings of meningitis, 605 had CSF abnormalities (suspected bacterial meningitis) but no pathogen identified; six patients had probable Hib meningitis and eight had confirmed Hib meningitis. The annual suspected bacterial meningitis incidence was 258.4/100,000 <5 years and the probable/confirmed Hib meningitis incidence was 6.0/100,000 <5 years. Pneumococcal meningitis incidence was 2.1/100,000 <5 years and Group B streptococcal meningitis incidence was 0.17/1000 live births. A total of 69,589 Hib vaccine doses were distributed during the study. Hib vaccine coverage was negligible initially but increased to 16% (complete Hib immunization) and 27% (partial immunization) in final months of study. Suspected bacterial meningitis incidence was high but proven invasive Hib meningitis incidence was low. Hib was leading cause of bacterial meningitis yet bacterial pathogens were identified in only 4% of abnormal CSF. These findings may reflect truly low incidence, presumptive antibiotic treatment, partial Hib immunization, or incomplete clinical evaluations. Given the apparent Hib meningitis burden in Jeonbuk Province, additional studies to describe other invasive Hib syndromes, Hib-associated mortality and disability, and economic impact of Hib disease will be useful to guide public health decisions regarding routine Hib vaccine introduction.

Alteration of follicle-stimulating hormone and testosterone regulation of messenger ribonucleic acid for Sertoli cell proteins in the rat during the acute phase of spinal cord injury

The detrimental effects of spinal cord injury (SCI) on spermatogenesis in the rat can be attenuated by exogenous testosterone (T) but enhanced by exogenous follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These results suggest that T-dependent cellular events may be involved in testicular injury after SCI and that such events may be associated with modification of FSH effects on Sertoli cell function. The current study compared the responses of Sertoli cells to exogenous T and FSH after SCI or sham surgery using steady-state levels of Sertoli cell protein mRNA transcripts as markers of responsiveness. Rats underwent sham surgery or SCI and then were treated for 7 or 14 days with T-filled silastic capsules (2 x 5 cm) and/or daily injections of 0.1 units of porcine FSH. Vehicle-treated control rats received 5-cm empty capsules and daily injections of saline vehicle. Two weeks after sham surgery, levels of mRNA for the androgen receptor (AR), FSH receptor (FSHR), androgen-binding protein (ABP), or sulfated glycoprotein (SGP)-2 in the testis were unaffected by T or FSH alone. Testosterone alone, however, significantly decreased transferrin (Trf) mRNA levels in the testis (P: < 0.01). The combination of T and FSH treatments resulted in significant decreases in levels of the above transcripts (P: < 0.05; P: < 0.01). Seven days after SCI, the testes of vehicle-treated SCI rats had higher levels of AR and SGP-2 mRNA than did those of sham control rats (P: < 0.01); such effects were transient and disappeared by Day 14 post-SCI. Testosterone treatment of SCI rats for 7 days resulted in decreases in mRNA levels for AR and Trf in the testes (P: < 0.01) but increased testicular levels of mRNAs for FSHR and SGP-2 in SCI rats. Follicle-stimulating hormone treatment for 7 days prevented the increase in AR mRNA that was seen in the testis of untreated SCI rats and increased levels of ABP and SGP-2 mRNAs in SCI rats (P: < 0.01). Follicle-stimulating hormone treatment of SCI rats did not affect FSHR mRNA levels by itself, but it blocked the stimulatory effect of T on FSHR and SGP-2 mRNAs. Fourteen days after SCI, testicular AR mRNA levels were not affected by T alone, but they increased in those rats that received FSH with or without concurrent T treatments (P: < 0.05). In contrast to their effects in sham control rats, T or FSH alone or in combination resulted in significant increases in testicular levels of ABP, SGP-2, and FSHR mRNAs (P: < 0.05). At this time, Trf mRNA in the testis of SCI rats was also suppressed by T (P: < 0.05), as it did in sham control rats, but Trf mRNA was increased by the FSH (P: < 0.01) that had inhibited this transcript in the testes of sham control rats. The effects of FSH on the Sertoli cell transcripts in SCI rats were either attenuated or blocked when T was given concurrently. In addition, testicular and serum T levels in those SCI rats that received FSH (alone or in combination with T) for 14 days were significantly increased, an effect that was not seen after sham surgery. These findings demonstrate that hormonal regulation of both Sertoli and Leydig cells was altered during the acute phase of SCI. Such changes may modify the functions of both cell types, thereby affecting the endocrine and/or paracrine microenvironment within the seminiferous epithelium. These effects could impair the functional capacity of Sertoli cells and contribute to impairment of spermatogenesis after SCI.

The effects of testicular denervation on spermatogenesis in the Sprague-Dawley rat

In the rat, regression of spermatogenesis during the chronic stages of spinal cord injury (SCI) occurs in the presence of normal function of the pituitary-testis hormone axis, thus suggesting that nonendocrine mechanisms might be involved. The current study examined whether disruption of neural input to the testis contributes to the cascade that leads to the regression of spermatogenesis. Four weeks after denervation of the superior spermatic nerve (SSN), testis weight was 25% lower (p < 0.01) than that of the contralateral sham-operated testis. Defects in spermatogenesis including phagocytosis of mature spermatids, vacuolization of spermatid nuclei, delayed spermiation and incomplete cellular associations were observed in >60% of the tubules. In the remaining 30-40% of tubules, the seminiferous epithelium was severely regressed. While cutting the inferior spermatic nerve (ISN) alone did not affect spermatogenesis significantly, it enhanced the effect of SSN denervation on both spermatogenesis and testis weight (p < 0.01). Spermatogenesis was totally regressed in the SSN/ISN-denervated testes. At this time, quantitatively normal spermatogonial proliferation was maintained in SSN- or ISN-denervated testes. Twelve weeks after surgery, regression of the seminiferous epithelium characterized by absence of proliferating spermatogonia, while undifferentiating spermatogonia were present, was observed in all SSN-denervated testes. At this time, regression of the seminiferous epithelia also occurred in >30% of the tubules in ISN-denervated testes. At both times, serum follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone and testosterone levels were normal and >60% of normal testicular testosterone concentrations were maintained in the denervated testes. These results indicate that disruption of neural input to the testis is not a cause for the decrease in spermatogonial proliferation during the acute phase of SCI, but may contribute to the chronic effects of SCI on spermatogenesis.

Epididymal sperm transport in normal and recent spinal cord injured Sprague Dawley rats

Causes of poor semen quality following spinal cord injury (SCI) are not known. One possible reason, based upon studies that reported improved semen quality in SCI men after several induced ejaculations, is delayed epididymal sperm transport. Our study was designed to establish baseline epididymal sperm transport values in the Sprague Dawley rat and evaluate effects of SCI on this process. Spermatozoa protamine was labeled with tritiated arginine, and the rats were sacrificed various times after injection. Each epididymis was divided into six equal sections from proximal to distal. Sperm tails were dissolved with 8 molar (M) urea in the presence of 2 mM dithiothreitol (DTT); sperm heads were collected by centrifugation (3,000 rpms, 10 min.). The radioactivity in sperm heads from each section was counted and expressed as counts per million sperm heads. To account for different rates of labeled arginine incorporation, the percentage of counts per million sperm heads in each section was calculated relative to the total number of counts in all six sections. Our results showed there was an orderly progression of sperm through the epididymis. It took 8 days for labeled sperm to enter the epididymis and 28 days to peak in the caudal (tail) section in non-SCI rats. Stasis was present 10 days after T-9 SCI in rats compared with transport in sham controls. This was evidenced by a significant increase in the percentage of labeled sperm in proximal sections of the epididymis (sections 1, 2, and 4) in T-9 transected animals (p < 0.01). If similar stasis occurs in SCI men, it could obviously contribute to poor semen quality. However, it remains to be determined how long this stasis persists after SCI in rats.

Risk factors for renal allograft survival in patients receiving cyclosporine immunosuppression

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Although cyclosporine (CsA) has been widely used in renal transplantation for more than 10 years, no large series of renal transplant patients has been studied in southern Taiwan. The purpose of this retrospective cohort study was to investigate the risk factors for graft survival in renal transplant recipients.

METHODS

From August 1987 to January 1998, 101 primary cadaveric renal transplantations were performed. The minimum follow-up period was 1 year. CsA and prednisolone were initially used as immunosuppressive agents in all patients. Use of lower doses of CsA to reduce CsA trough level (50-99 ng/mL) in hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-positive recipients was attempted at 6 months after transplantation.

RESULTS

Graft actuarial survival rates at 1, 5, and 10 years posttransplantation were 89%, 75%, and 57%, respectively. Acute rejection and increased recipient age were found to be significant risk factors (p < 0.05) affecting graft survival, with hazard ratios of 5.20 and 1.74, respectively, by multivariate analysis using a Cox proportional hazards model. Hepatitis B and/or hepatitis C infection had no influence on graft survival.

CONCLUSIONS

In this series of cadaveric renal allograft patients, the risk factors affecting allograft survival were acute rejection and recipient age.

Subcutaneous tumors of mice treated with rhodamine-123 and laser irradiation

BACKGROUND

Treatment involving photosensitizers and laser irradiation (LIR) in cancer therapy is known as photodynamic therapy (PDT). The purpose of our study was to assess the therapeutic effect of PDT using rhodamine-123 (Rh123) and LIR on subcutaneous tumors (ST) in mice.

METHODS

Sarcoma-180 cells (1 x 10(7)) were implanted subcutaneously into the breast area of strain Cr1:CD-1-ICR (BR) female mice. Mice bearing ST were treated with Rh123 or LIR alone, or a combination of both, once a day for 3 successive days.

RESULTS

The best therapeutic effect was observed in the group treated with 7.5 mg Rh123 per kilogram of body weight, combined with 75 J/cm2 laser irradiation energy. The group's mortality rate, tumor control rate, mean survival time, and increase in lifespan within 120 days after treatment were 16.7%, 83.3%, 109.4 days, and 135.8%, respectively. The most inhibitory effect on tumor cells was found in the group treated with 15 mg/kg Rh123 and 90 J/cm2 laser irradiation. The biosyntheses of DNA, RNA, and protein in tumor cells of this group was obviously inhibited.

CONCLUSION

PDT with the photosensitizer Rh123 and laser irradiation was therapeutically effective in treating subcutaneous tumors of mice. The tumor cells and the syntheses of DNA, RNA, and protein of the tumor cells in these PDT treated mice were obviously inhibited.

Effects of glycyrrhizae and glycyrrhizic acid on cellular immunocompetence in low-dose gamma-ray irradiated mice

BACKGROUND

For both animals and human beings, it is important to prevent damage from ionizing radiation and to restore immunocompetence following irradiation. The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of glycyrrhizae (GL) and glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) on cellular immunocompetence in low dose gamma-ray-irradiated mice.

METHODS

Six- to 8-week-old ICR strain' Crl:CD-1-ICR (BR) strain male mice, bred in the Institute of Cancer Research, U.S.A., were chosen and divided into four groups. Group A was the normal control. Group B, the experimental control, received 1 Gy of whole body gamma-ray irradiation. Groups C and D, the experimental groups, were treated with 500 mg/kg of GL (orally) and 5 mg/kg body weight of GA (i.p.), respectively, once a day, 5 days a week for 2 weeks after gamma-irradiation. The tested mice were killed, at 6 different intervals to measure their leukocyte and differential counts. Cellular immunocompetence was measured by the 3H-thymidine uptake in each group.

RESULTS

One gray of gamma-ray irradiation had evident inhibition on the leukocyte and differential counts and the cellular immunity of mice. GL and GA could help to restore the decreased leukocyte counts and the cellular immunocompetence in low dose gamma-irradiated mice.

CONCLUSION

GL and GA could help to restore decreased leukocyte counts and the cellular immunocompetence in low-dose gamma-ray-irradiated mice.

Retinoid and androgen regulation of cell growth, epidermal growth factor and retinoic acid receptors in normal and carcinoma rat prostate cells

Recent in vivo and in vitro studies suggest that retinoic acid receptor (RAR)-mediated processes may be involved in androgen regulation of prostate cells in a manner that may be altered during prostatic carcinogenesis. We tested this hypothesis in the newly established carcinoma and non-carcinoma rat prostate epithelial cell lines, NRP-154 and NRP-152, respectively. In DMEM/F-12 medium supplemented with 10% charcoal stripped fetal calf serum (cFCS), the number of both NRP-152 and NRP-154 cells were stimulated by testosterone (T), with a 4-fold greater effect in NRP-152 than in NRP-154 cells. Retinoic acid (RA) alone also stimulated the growth of NRP-152 cells, but failed to induce cell growth of NRP-154 cells. Importantly, the level of RAR alpha mRNA was elevated whereas the levels of RAR gamma and androgen receptor (AR) mRNA were lower in NRP-154 cells compared to those in NRP-152 cells. Treatment of NRP-152 cells with increasing doses of T resulted in a dose-dependent decrease and rebound of the level of RAR alpha and gamma mRNA in NRP-152 cells; these effects were not apparent, if not reversed, in NRP-154 cells. Both ligand binding and Western blot analyses revealed that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGF-R) was stimulated by 20 nM T but was suppressed by 0.1 microM RA, which also attenuated the stimulating effects of T on EGF-R in NRP-152 and to a lesser extent in NRP-154 cells. The differences in the level and androgen regulation of RAR mRNAs and reciprocal regulation of EGF-R expression by T and RA between NRP-154 and NRP-152 cells suggest that variations in the EGF-R and RAR signal events may contribute to differences in growth rate between these two cell lines.

The detrimental effects of spinal cord injury on spermatogenesis in the rat is partially reversed by testosterone, but enhanced by follicle-stimulating hormone

Our previous studies have demonstrated that impaired spermatogenesis during the acute phase of spinal cord injury (SCI) is preceded by a transient (but significant) suppression of serum FSH, LH, and testosterone (T) concentrations. It is hypothesized that hormonal deprivation may impair Sertoli cell function, leading to the loss of spermatogonia, degeneration of spermatogenic cells, and eventual regression of the seminiferous epithelium. The current study examined the efficacy of exogenous T and FSH in the maintenance of spermatogenesis and Sertoli cell functions in SCI rats. Implantation of T capsules (TC, 2 x 5 cm) attenuated some of the spermatogenic lesions and maintained qualitatively complete spermatogenesis in all SCI rats 4 weeks after the surgery. In contrast, daily injections of 0.1 U of FSH alone, or in combination with TC implants, paradoxically enhanced the regression of spermatogenesis in SCI rats. At this time, the numbers of Aal, A1, and B spermatogonia and preleptotene spermatocytes in SCI rats have decreased by 25-30%. Though not prevented by TC implants, the decrease in Aal and A1 spermatogonia was attenuated by FSH alone but was further enhanced when FSH-treated rats also received TC implants. The intratesticular T concentration in untreated and FSH-treated SCI rats was not different from that of sham control rats, but it decreased by more than 95% in those SCI rats given TC implants alone. These results demonstrate that impairment of spermatogenesis during the acute phase of SCI is not related to the availability of FSH and/or T. Northern blot analysis revealed an increase in androgen receptor messenger RNA (mRNA) in the testis of SCI rats; this increase was prevented by TC implants but persisted when FSH was also given. In contrast, the levels of FSH-receptor, androgen binding protein, and transferrin mRNA were not affected by SCI but were significantly higher in those SCI rats given FSH alone or in combination with TC. TC implants alone suppressed mRNA levels of transferrin in testes of SCI rats, without concomitant change in those for FSH-receptor and ABP. The changes in Sertoli cell responses to FSH and T, and perhaps other hormones, may alter signal events elicited by these hormones, thus contributing to abnormal epithelial environments and regression of spermatogenesis. Maintenance of spermatogenesis in SCI rats by exogenous T suggests the feasibility of using exogenous hormones to impede the detrimental effects of SCI on spermatogenesis. This approach may have clinical applicability for the preservation of spermatogenic functions in SCI men.

Effects of spinal cord injury on spermatogenesis and the expression of messenger ribonucleic acid for Sertoli cell proteins in rat Sertoli cell-enriched testes

The study was an examination of the effects of spinal cord injury (SCI) on spermatogenesis and Sertoli cell functions in adult rats with Sertoli cell-enriched (SCE) testes. The effects of SCI on the seminiferous epithelium were characterized by abnormalities in the remaining spermatogenic cells during the first month after SCI. Three days after SCI, serum testosterone levels were 80% lower, while serum FSH and LH levels were 25% and 50% higher, respectively, than those of sham control SCE rats. At this time, the levels of mRNA for androgen receptor (AR), FSH receptor (FSH-R), and androgen-binding protein (ABP) were normal whereas those for transferrin (Trf) had decreased by 40%. Thereafter, serum testosterone levels increased, but they remained lower than those of the sham control rats 28 days after SCI; and serum FSH and LH levels returned to normal. The levels of mRNA for AR, ABP, and Trf exhibited a biphasic increase 7 days after SCI and remained elevated 28 days after SCI. FSH-R mRNA levels were also elevated 90 days after SCI. Unexpectedly, active spermatogenesis, including qualitatively complete spermatogenesis, persisted in > 40% of the tubules 90 days after SCI. These results suggest that the stem cells and/or undifferentiated spermatogonia in SCE testes are less susceptible to the deleterious effects of SCI than the normal testes and that they were able to proliferate and differentiate after SCI. The presence of elevated levels of mRNA for Sertoli cell FSH-R and AR, as well as of that for the Sertoli cell proteins, in the SCE testes during the chronic stage of SCI suggests a modification of Sertoli cell physiology. Such changes in Sertoli cell functions may provide a beneficial environment for the proliferation of the stem cells and differentiation of postmeiotic cells, thus resulting in the persistence of spermatogenesis in these testes.

Suppression and recovery of spermatogenesis following spinal cord injury in the rat

Recently, we reported that changes in spermatogenesis in adult rats during acute phase (within 2 weeks) of spinal cord injury (SCI) were associated with a suppression of pituitary-testis hormone axis, and these effects mimic those that occur after hormone deprivation. In this study, we examined the long-term (>4 weeks) effects of SCI on spermatogenesis and its recovery. Results of this study reveal that while serum follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and testosterone levels in SCI rats recovered within 1 month after the injury, their spermatogenesis continued to regress. By 3 months, spermatogenesis in 70% of SCI rats has totally regressed, characterized by the absence of proliferating spermatogonia; these effects could not be prevented by an otherwise effective regimen of testosterone treatment. Sertoli cells in the regressed seminiferous tubules exhibited unusual behavior, characterized by the formation of multiple cell layers and/or aggregates that extended into the tubular lumen. Active spermatogenesis was observed in nine of the 19 SCI rats by 6 months, seven of which had complete spermatogenesis, but with persisting abnormalities. These results demonstrate that SCI results in total, but reversible, regression of spermatogenesis. Failure to prevent such effects by an otherwise effective exogenous testosterone regimen suggests that non-endocrine factors are involved in the SCI effects on spermatogenesis. The unusual Sertoli cell localization in the regressed testes may have been triggered by the loss of proliferating spermatogonia and may be involved in subsequent spermatogenic recovery.

The use of Chinese herbal medicine on experimental fracture healing

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of Ru-Yih-Jin-Huang-Saan (RYJHS) and Jie-Guu-Saan (JGS) on experimental fracture healing in rats. Seventy-five rats were fractured in the middle of the left tibia and fibula. They were randomly divided into experimental and control groups and injected with Ringer's solution and applied with Ru-Yih-jin-Huang-Saan externally or fed with Jie-Guu-Saan respectively. The animals were sacrificed at 4, 8 and 12 days after fracture. The contents of hydroxyproline and the synthesis of DNA, RNA and protein were observed. The results demonstrate that groups treated with herbal medicine were more rapidly and thoroughly healed than the control group in respect to collagen formation and bone cell metabolism.

The effects of spinal cord injury on the status of messenger ribonucleic acid for TRPM 2 and androgen receptor in the prostate of the rat

The prostate is one of the male accessory sex glands that produce fluid components of the seminal plasma. In addition to androgen, a normal innervation of the prostate is believed to be important for maintaining normal function of the prostate. Previously we noted that, in the rat, the weight of the prostate decreased following surgically induced spinal cord injury (SCI). This observation suggests that growth, and possibly function, of the prostate may be compromised after SCI. To explore this possibility, we examined the effects of SCI on the androgen-related biochemical properties and morphology of the prostate in the rat at various times after surgically induced SCI. SCI resulted in an acute decrease in prostate weight and an increase in steady state level of mRNA for testosterone-repressed prostate message 2 (TRPM 2) during the first 2 weeks postinjury. These changes perhaps relate to an increase in cell death or a decrease in secretory activity due to an acute suppression of serum testosterone after the injury. Concomitantly, there was a transient, but significant, decrease in the steady state level of androgen receptor (AR) mRNA in the prostate during the first 2 weeks after SCI, an indication of an altered autoregulation of AR by its own ligand. Despite the fact that growth of the prostate, as indicated by weight increase, in SCI rats resumed 2 weeks postinjury, prostate weights were persistently lower in SCI rats than sham-operated controls for at least 3 months. Furthermore, prostate TRPM 2 mRNA levels remained elevated throughout the recovery period even after a normal prostate weight had been restored. In addition, a decrease in the height of ventral prostate epithelial cells was noted in SCI rats 28 and 90 days postinjury. These results demonstrate a prolonged effect of SCI on prostate function. These findings and our unreported observation of persistently smaller seminal vesicles in the same groups of SCI rats suggest that functions of male accessory sex glands may also be compromised after SCI. These changes may affect biochemical properties of the secretory products of these glands and may provide some explanation for the reported changes in the composition of the seminal plasma and abnormal sperm motility seen in the semen of SCI men.

Androgen modulation of the messenger ribonucleic acid of retinoic acid receptors in the prostate, seminal vesicles, and kidney in the rat

Previously, we reported that the steady state level of messenger RNA (mRNA) transcripts of retinoic acid receptors (RAR) alpha and gamma in the testes of 20-day-old rats can be modulated by exogenous testosterone. These results suggest that androgen regulation of Sertoli cell functions may involve biochemical events mediated by RAR genes. In this study, we examined the effects of castration and testosterone replacement on the steady state level of mRNA transcripts for RAR alpha and gamma in the prostate, seminal vesicles, and kidney of the rat. Northern blot analysis revealed that in intact adult rats, the relative steady state levels of the 3.4- and 2.7-kilobase (kb) mRNA transcripts for RAR alpha and the 3.4-kb transcript for RAR gamma in the prostate were at least 20-fold higher than those in the seminal vesicles and kidney. The relatively high abundance of RAR mRNA transcripts in the prostate suggests the physiological importance of RAR-mediated processes in this organ. Castration resulted in an increase in the level of RAR mRNA transcripts in the prostate and seminal vesicles, reaching a maximum of 2- to 4-fold in the prostate and 15- to 23-fold in the seminal vesicles within 6 days. On the other hand, the levels of mRNA transcripts of RAR alpha and -gamma in the kidney were reduced by 40-50% 1 day after castration. The effects of castration on RAR mRNA levels in all three organs were prevented by implantation of 3-cm testosterone capsules at the time of castration, a regimen that provides physiological levels of serum testosterone. In a subsequent experiment, adult male rats were given a single sc injection of 2 mg testosterone 3 days after castration. This treatment resulted in an acute suppression of the level of RAR mRNA transcripts in all three organs within 30 min. Thereafter, the levels of RAR alpha and -gamma mRNA transcripts in the prostate continued to decrease, whereas those in the seminal vesicles returned to the castrated levels within 6 h. On the other hand, RAR mRNA levels in the kidney rebounded by 1 h and remained at the level found in the untreated castrated rats. These results demonstrate that the steady state level of mRNA transcripts for RAR alpha and -gamma in the prostate, seminal vesicles, and kidney can be modulated by testosterone in organ-specific manners, thus suggesting that the RAR-mediated processes may be involved in the effects of androgen in these organs. Furthermore, the relatively low increment in prostatic RAR mRNA levels after castration compared to that in the seminal vesicles demonstrates a difference in androgen responses between these two organs. This difference could dictate the efficacy of the effects of androgen on cellular function and may contribute to the disparate vulnerabilities to androgen-related uncontrolled cell proliferation and/or malignancy in the prostate and seminal vesicles.

Lack of pharmacokinetic interaction between buspirone and haloperidol in patients with schizophrenia

The pharmacokinetic interaction between buspirone and haloperidol was evaluated in schizophrenic patients in two different groups. In both groups, haloperidol doses (10-40 mg/day) remained constant for 6 weeks before the addition of buspirone 10 mg three times daily. Serial blood samples were obtained from the 11 patients in group I at baseline (before addition of buspirone) and after administration for 24 hours. The pharmacokinetic parameters of haloperidol were determined alone and with coadministration of buspirone. In group II, buspirone 10 mg three times daily was added to treatment with haloperidol in 27 patients. Blood samples were obtained before addition of buspirone and at weeks 2 and 6 of treatment with buspirone. Samples were obtained 10 to 12 hours after administration of the evening dose and before the morning dose. Haloperidol and its metabolite, reduced haloperidol (RH), were assayed by means of high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection. Significant changes in the pharmacokinetic parameters of haloperidol were not found in group I; a mean increase in the half-life (t1/2) of haloperidol from 21.5 to 28.1 hours was observed, but this finding was not statistically significant. Under steady-state conditions, plasma levels of haloperidol in the patients in group II did not change significantly from baseline to week 6. Plasma concentrations of RH remained unaltered in both groups. The results indicate that coadministration of buspirone does not markedly affect the pharmacokinetics or plasma concentrations of haloperidol.