[Microwave ablation versus radiofrequency ablation for solid or predominantly solid benign thyroid nodules: a randomized controlled clinical trial]

Objective: To compare the short-term efficacy and the safety of microwave ablation (MWA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in the treatment of benign thyroid nodules (BTNs). Methods: This prospective randomized controlled trial, performed from December 2019 to September 2021, included 36 patients with solid or predominantly solid BTNs who met the eligibility criteria and provided written informed consent at the Nanjing sub-center (Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine). Patients were assigned to either the MWA group or the RFA group (18 patients in each group) at a ratio of 1∶1 using a block randomization design and allocation concealment using sealed envelope randomization. The independent-sample t-test and χ2 test were used to compare the volume reduction rates (VRRs), effective rates (VRRs≥50%), cosmetic scores, and complication rates at 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment between the two groups. Results: The clinical characteristics of the two groups of patients were comparable. After ablation, the nodule volume was significantly reduced in both groups. At 1, 3, and 6 months, there was no significant difference in the volume between the two groups (all P>0.05). At 3 months, the RFA group had a larger VRRs than that in the MWA group (62.08%±12.46% vs. 46.90%±23.16%, t=-2.45, P=0.021). However, at 1 and 6 months, no statistical significance was observed (both P>0.05). No significant difference was observed in the effective rates at the last follow-up (14/18 vs. 18/18, P=0.104). However, the RFA group had a lower cosmetic score than that in the MWA group (1.78±0.43 vs. 2.17±0.51, t=-2.47, P=0.019). There was no statistically significant difference in the complication rates between the two groups (all P>0.05). Conclusions: Both MWA and RFA were effective and safe treatments for BTNs, with no significant differences in short-term efficacy and safety. In addition, the RFA group showed slightly more favorable outcomes than the MWA group in terms of cosmetic improvement.

Prediction Model of Ocular Metastases in Gastric Adenocarcinoma: Machine Learning-Based Development and Interpretation Study

Background: Although gastric adenocarcinoma (GA) related ocular metastasis (OM) is rare, its occurrence indicates a more severe disease. We aimed to utilize machine learning (ML) to analyze the risk factors of GA-related OM and predict its risks. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study. The clinical data of 3532 GA patients were collected and randomly classified into training and validation sets in a ratio of 7:3. Those with or without OM were classified into OM and non-OM (NOM) groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator were conducted. We integrated the variables identified through feature importance ranking and further refined the selection process using forward sequential feature selection based on random forest (RF) algorithm before incorporating them into the ML model. We applied six ML algorithms to construct the predictive GA model. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve indicated the model's predictive ability. Also, we established a network risk calculator based on the best performance model. We used Shapley additive interpretation (SHAP) to identify risk factors and to confirm the interpretability of the black box model. We have de-identified all patient details. Results: The ML model, consisting of 13 variables, achieved an optimal predictive performance using the gradient boosting machine (GBM) model, with an impressive area under the curve (AUC) of 0.997 in the test set. Utilizing the SHAP method, we identified crucial factors for OM in GA patients, including LDL, CA724, CEA, AFP, CA125, Hb, CA153, and Ca2+. Additionally, we validated the model's reliability through an analysis of two patient cases and developed a functional online web prediction calculator based on the GBM model. Conclusion: We used the ML method to establish a risk prediction model for GA-related OM and showed that GBM performed best among the six ML models. The model may identify patients with GA-related OM to provide early and timely treatment.

Retinal alterations in evaluation of rheumatoid arthritis with chloroquine treatment: A new approach

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of hydroxychloroquine on conjunctival and retinal microvascular density in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients.

METHODS

Ten healthy controls, 10 RA patients who had not been treated with hydroxychloroquine, and 10 RA patients who had been treated with chloroquine for more than 5 years were recruited. Optical coherence tomography (OCTA) was used to examine the conjunctival and superficial and deep retinal microvascular density and compared the differences in microvascular density between the three groups.

RESULTS

The vascular density in RA group in superficial microvascular was significantly lower than that in control group (p < 0.001). Compared with RA group, the chloroquine group showed statistically significantly lower microvascular (p < 0.001) and deep microvascular (p = 0.018). Superficial microvascular was positively correlated with conjunctival vessel density in RA patients (r = 0.868, p = 0.0048).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of chloroquine could further reduce the vascular density in the absence of statistical difference in the course of the disease.

Prediction model of ocular metastasis from primary liver cancer: Machine learning-based development and interpretation study

BACKGROUND

Ocular metastasis (OM) is a rare metastatic site of primary liver cancer (PLC). The purpose of this study was to establish a clinical predictive model of OM in PLC patients based on machine learning (ML).

METHODS

We retrospectively collected the clinical data of 1540 PLC patients and divided it into a training set and an internal test set in a 7:3 proportion. PLC patients were divided into OM and non-ocular metastasis (NOM) groups, and univariate logistic regression analysis was performed between the two groups. The variables with univariate logistic analysis p < 0.05 were selected for the ML model. We constructed six ML models, which were internally verified by 10-fold cross-validation. The prediction performance of each ML model was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curves (ROCs). We also constructed a web calculator based on the optimal performance ML model to personalize the risk probability for OM.

RESULTS

Six variables were selected for the ML model. The extreme gradient boost (XGB) ML model achieved the optimal differential diagnosis ability, with an area under the curve (AUC) = 0.993, accuracy = 0.992, sensitivity = 0.998, and specificity = 0.984. Based on these results, an online web calculator was constructed by using the XGB ML model to help clinicians diagnose and treat the risk probability of OM in PLC patients. Finally, the Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) library was used to obtain the six most important risk factors for OM in PLC patients: CA125, ALP, AFP, TG, CA199, and CEA.

CONCLUSION

We used the XGB model to establish a risk prediction model of OM in PLC patients. The predictive model can help identify PLC patients with a high risk of OM, provide early and personalized diagnosis and treatment, reduce the poor prognosis of OM patients, and improve the quality of life of PLC patients.

Postoperative pulmonary complications in older patients undergoing elective surgery with a supraglottic airway device or tracheal intubation

The two most commonly used airway management techniques during general anaesthesia are supraglottic airway devices and tracheal tubes. In older patients undergoing elective non-cardiothoracic surgery under general anaesthesia with positive pressure ventilation, we hypothesised that a composite measure of in-hospital postoperative pulmonary complications would be less frequent when a supraglottic airway device was used compared with a tracheal tube. We studied patients aged ≥ 70 years in 17 clinical centres. Patients were allocated randomly to airway management with a supraglottic airway device or a tracheal tube. Between August 2016 and April 2020, 2900 patients were studied, of whom 2751 were included in the primary analysis (1387 with supraglottic airway device and 1364 with a tracheal tube). Pre-operatively, 2431 (88.4%) patients were estimated to have a postoperative pulmonary complication risk index of 1-2. Postoperative pulmonary complications, mostly coughing, occurred in 270 of 1387 patients (19.5%) allocated to a supraglottic airway device and 342 of 1364 patients (25.1%) assigned to a tracheal tube (absolute difference -5.6% (95%CI -8.7 to -2.5), risk ratio 0.78 (95%CI 0.67-0.89); p < 0.001). Among otherwise healthy older patients undergoing elective surgery under general anaesthesia with intra-operative positive pressure ventilation of their lungs, there were fewer postoperative pulmonary complications when the airway was managed with a supraglottic airway device compared with a tracheal tube.

[Effects of caloric restriction and rope-skipping exercise on cardiometabolic risk factors in overweight or obese college students]

Objective: To explore the effect of three interventions including caloric restriction, rope-skipping exercise and caloric restriction combined with rope-skipping exercise on cardiometabolic risk factors in overweight or obese college students. Methods: This study was a pilot randomized controlled trial. Overweight or obese students who met the inclusion criteria were recruited at Sun Yat-sen University in September 2019 and were randomly divided into four groups: caloric restriction group (CR), rope-skipping group (RS), combined group (CR-RS) and control group (CT). The intervention in each group lasted 8 weeks, specifically: the daily energy intake of CR was 100% to 110% of the basal metabolic energy; RS was instructed to rope three times a week, and CR-RS combined caloric restriction with rope-skipping. At the baseline and end of 8-week intervention, basic information, anthropometric indicators and fasting vein blood of students were collected. Paired t test and Wilcoxon paired-samples signed rank test were used for comparison before and after intervention, and analysis of covariance was used for comparison between groups after intervention. Results: A total of 29 students completed the trial and were included in the final analysis (7, 9, 7 and 6 students in CR, RS, CR-RS and CT, respectively). The mean age of students were (19.00±1.00) years, including 11 males and 18 females. The baseline characteristics of four groups were comparable. After 8 weeks of intervention, compared with CT, there was an increase in the body fat percentage and fat mass index in CR and CR-RS (P<0.05). Insulin level decreased in CR-RS (P<0.05). Systolic blood pressure in CR and diastolic blood pressure in CR-RS were higher (P<0.05). Compared with baseline, fat mass index decreased in CR (P<0.05), while body weight, BMI, and fat mass index decreased in CR-RS (P<0.05). Conclusion: It is suggested that the caloric restriction alone and calorie restriction combined with rope-skipping exercise can benefit overweight or obese college students with cardiometabolic risk factors.

[Effectiveness and safety of ultrasound-guided microwave ablation for the treatment of primary hyperparathyroidism in 12 patients with parathyroid adenoma]

To investigate the effectiveness and safety of ultrasound-guided microwave ablation (MWA) in treatment of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). A total of 12 PHPT patients with parathyroid adenoma were treated with MWA in Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine from May 2019 to February 2021. The patients were followed up once every 3 months for 3-12 months. Levels of serum parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium and phosphorus were detected before and 20 min, 4h and 1day after ablation, and during follow-up period. The volume and volume reduction rate of parathyroid lesion were compared before the treatment and at the end of follow-up. The technical and clinical success of MWA were assessed as well. At the end of follow-up, median serum PTH [66.60 (42.21,80.03) ng/L vs.169.90 (89.01,396.50) ng/L] and calcium [2.39 (2.32,2.49) mmol/L vs. 2.75 (2.57,2.96) mmol/L] levels in 12 patients decreased significantly (all P<0.05). A complete response in terms of PTH and calcium levels was achieved in 6 of the 12 patients, while 4 of the patients had slightly elevated PTH levels just above the upper limit of normal reference range, and 2 of the patients remained abnormal PTH and calcium levels. The clinical cure rate was 50%. The volumes of all lesion after ablation were significantly decreased (P<0.05), with the technical success rate reaching 92.3%. No serious complications were observed. Ultrasound-guided MWA, thus, is safe and effective in the treatment of PHPT.

[The current situation of occupational burnout and its influencing factors among orphan child care workers in Nanjing]

Objective: To explore the status of job burnout of nurses for orphans and disabled children in Nanjing and its influencing factors, so as to provide reference for promoting the mental health of nurses for orphans and disabled children. Methods: From February to May, 2017, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among 236 nurses working in social welfare institutions for orphans and disabled children in Nanjing, using Occupational Stress Indicator (OSI) and Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) . It investigated the status of job burnout among nurses of orphans and disabled children, logistic regression analysis was used to explore the effect of occupational stress on the incidence of job burnout of nurses for orphans and disabled children. Results: The results showed that the incidence of job burnout was 67.37% (159/236) , the incidence of job burnout was negatively correlated with behavioral characteristics and family support, the incidence of emotional exhaustion was positively correlated with task control and job monotony (P<0.05) , and negatively correlated with role ambiguity and job satisfaction (P<0.05) . The incidence of depersonalization was negatively correlated with job monotony and peer support (P<0.05) . Conclusion: The nurses of orphans and disabled children have serious job burnout. Occupational stress factors, personality characteristics and relieving factors have influence on the incidence of job burnout.

[Study on occupational stress response of orphans and disabled children care workers in Nanjing]

Objective: To explore the status quo of occupational stress and its influencing factors of nursing staff for orphaned and disabled children in Nanjing, and to put forward measures for adverse reactions to occupational stress, so as to ensure the psychological health of this occupational population. Methods: From February to May 2017, 236 nursing assistants for orphans and disabled children in Nanjing social welfare home were selected by cluster sampling method. The occupational stress index(occupational stress indictor, OSI) was used to investigate occupational stress response and occupational stress factors. Partial correlation and multiple linear regression were used for statistical analysis. Results: The scores of job satisfaction, mental health and depressive symptoms in occupational stress reaction were (43. 99±6. 83) , (36. 09±4. 59) and (17. 31±2. 44) re- spectively. In terms of job satisfaction, work monotony, logic and compound change were the contributing fac- tors (P<0. 05) , task strategy and task control were negative factors (P<0. 05) ; on mental health, opportunities were raised and participation in decision-making Self-esteem, technology utilization, environmental control, time management, task strategy and support of colleagues as contributing factors (P<0. 05) , ambition and role conflicts as negative factors (P<0. 05) ; on depression, work input, participation Decision-making, promotion opportunities and behavioral characteristics were protective factors (P<0. 05 ) . Conclusion: Occupational stress among caregivers of orphans and disabled children cannot be ignored. Occupational stress reaction is serious. Occupational stress factors should be reduced and individual stress coping ability should be enhanced.

[Study on the sensitivity of multi-slice spiral CT in diagnosis of lymph node metastasis in different lymph node stations of gastric cancer]

Objective: To study the sensitivity of multi-slice spiral CT in the diagnosis of lymph node metastasis in different lymph node stations of gastric cancer. Methods: A retrospective series of case study was employed in the research. Inclusion criteria: (1) patients undergoing preoperative abdominal CT scan plus enhanced examination, and data in the image archiving and communication system of Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; (2) patients undergoing total or subtotal gastrectomy plus D2 or D1+ lymphadenectomy, with more than 15 harvested lymph nodes and more than 1 metastatic lymph node confirmed by postoperative pathology; (3) WHO pathological classification defined as gastric adenocarcinoma; (4) no history of lymph node tuberculosis, giant lymph node hyperplasia, lymphoma or other diseases resulting in enlarged lymph nodes; (5) no history of gastrectomy; (6) no preoperative neoadjuvant therapy. Clinicopathologic data of gastric cancer patients at the Department of Gastric and Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center from January 2009 to December 2012 were retrospectively analyzed. Using the pathologically positive lymph nodes as a reference, the sensitivity of CT-positive lymph nodes was calculated (total number of positive image lymph nodes/total number of positive pathological lymph nodes) and complete coincidence rate (number of case defined as complete coincidence/number of case with positive pathologic lymph nodes; complete coincidence indicated that the number of positive image lymph nodes was consistent with the number of positive pathologic lymph nodes in each lymph node station). The χ(2) test was used to compare the sensitivity of CT in the diagnosis of lymph node metastasis in each lymph node station. Results: A total of 228 patients with pathology-proven gastric cancer were enrolled in the study, including 147 male and 81 female. The overall sensitivity of CT in diagnosis of metastatic lymph nodes in gastric cancer was 68.7% (1769/2576). The sensitivity of CT in diagnosis of lymph node metastasis of groups 1 to 8 from high to low was group 3 [81.1% (506/624)], group 7 [73.9% (246/333)], group 2 [70.3% (111/158)], group 6 [68.7% (248/361)], group 4 [68.1% (262/385)], group 8 [60.4% (116/192)], group 1 [53.8% (155/288)], group 5 [47.1% (82/174)]. The CT diagnostic sensitivity of group 3 was significantly higher than the overall level (χ(2)=37.689, P<0.001). The CT diagnostic sensitivity of group 5 was significantly lower than the overall level (χ(2)=34.387, P<0.001). The CT diagnostic sensitivity of group 1 was also significantly lower than the overall level (χ(2)=25.918, P<0.001). Significant differences were not found in the CT diagnostic sensitivity of group 2, 4, 6, 7, 8 compared with the overall level (all P>0.05). The complete coincidence rate was 56.9% (536/942) between pathological positive lymph nodes and CT positive lymph nodes. The highest complete coincidence rate was observed in group 3 (68.0%, 123/181) and the lowest was in group 1 (41.4%, 46/111), whose difference was statistically significant (χ(2)=9.673, P=0.002). Conclusion: The sensitivity of CT in diagnosis of lymph nodes in different lymph node stations of gastric cancer is different.

[Analysis of occupational stress and occupational exhaustion of primary caregivers]

Objective: To investigate the occupation stress and job burnout of orphan child care workers in Nanjing and nursing staff in Yangzhong primary hospital, to compare the differences of occupational stress and job burnout between the two social service workers. Methods: From February to May 2017, a cross- sectional survey was conducted. Cluster sampling method was used to investigate the occupation stress and job burnout of orphan child care workers in Nanjing and nursing staff in Yangzhong primary hospital, totally 403 people, by a combination of the Internet of things assessment system of occupational stress and traditional questionnaire. Results: There were statistically significant differences of occupational stress and job burnout scores of both social service workers (P<0.05). Orphan child care workers in job control, technology utilization, job routinization, work risk, role ambiguity and participation decision-making, anxiety state, body complain, life attitude, behavior characteristics, ambition, anxiety trait, social support, logic, family-work relationship and depersonalization were higher than those of Yangzhong primary nurses (P<0.05); Primary nurses in Yangzhong in quantitative load and change, workload, role conflict, job prospects, promotion, depressive symptom, daily stress, self-esteem, task strategy, time management, work input, and personal accomplishment reduction scored higher than those of Orphan child care workers (P<0.05). The logistic regression analysis of the occupational depletion positive rate of the two social service personnel showed that the protective factors of the nursing staff of the orphans and disabled children had behavioral characteristics and family support(OR=0.877, P=0.044; OR=0.691, P=0.001) . The contributing factors of the primary nursing staff in Yangzhong were task control, workload, work psychological control source (OR=1.110, P=0.019; OR=1.128, P<0.001;OR=1.066, P=0.032) . The protection factors were technical utilization, opportunities for improvement, and mental health (OR=0.775, P=0.005; OR=0.765, P=0.006; OR=0.914, P=0.002) . Conclusion: The work content, the service object and the nature of the unit of primary caregivers influence the state of occupational stress and job burnout. The influencing factors of occupational stress and job burnout are not identical, Different social service personnel show occupational stress and occupational exhaustion in different aspects, and it is necessary to propose mitigation measures for two kinds of social service personnel.

[The influence of demographic characteristics on occupational stress of orphan child care workers]

Objective: To investigate the occupation stress of orphan child care workers in Nanjing, to explore the influence of different demographic characteristics on occupational stress of orphan child care workers and propose measures. Methods: Cluster sampling method was used to investigate the occupation stress of 236 people of orphan child care workers in Nanjing by a combination of the Internet of things assessment system of occupational stress and traditional questionnaire. Results: The scores of workload, job prospects, participation decision-making, anxiety and logical in different age groups among orphan child care workers were statistically different (P<0.05) ; The scores of organizational loyalty in different education groups among orphan child care workers were statistically different (P<0.05) ; The scores of task control, resource control, workload, job prospects, job satisfaction, mental health, anxiety and ambition were statistically different among orphan child care workers with different job titles (P<0.05) ; The scores of role conflict, role ambiguity, job satisfaction, mental health, anxiety, self-esteem, colleague support, family support and task strategy were statistically different orphan child care workers in different classes (P<0.05) . Conclusion: Different demographic characteristics will have certain influence on occupational stress of orphan child care workers.

[Current status of nurses' perceived professional benefits and influencing factors in 3A-level hospitals in Tianjin]

Objective: To investigate the current status of nurses' perceived professional benefits in 3A-level hospitals in Tianjin, and analyze its influencing factors. Methods: A total of 421 clinical nurses from five 3A-level hospitals in Tianjin were recruited for investigation on perceived professional benefits by Nurses'Perceived Professional Benefits Scale. Results: The total score of nurses' perceived professional benefit was 110.50±14.24, the score index was 77.34%. Among five dimensions, the highest scores index was 84.80% for personal development, the lowest was 71.57% for identification by relatives and friends. Multiple linear regression analysis showed the three variables, such as department, teaching and cooperative relation between doctors and nurses entered the model, higher perceived professional benefits was observed in medical nurses, teaching nurses, and those with better cooperative relation between doctors and nurses (P<0.05) . Conclusion: The investigated nurses in 3A-level hospitals in Tianjin show upper-moderate level of perceived professional benefits. Nursing managers should develop targeted interventions based on the factors affecting the perceived professional benefits of the nurses and further enhance their perceived professional benefits.

Effects of antibacterial peptide on cellular immunity in weaned piglets

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of antibacterial peptide (ABP) sufficiency on cellular immune functions by determining the spleen cell cycle and apoptosis, peripheral blood T cell subsets, and T cell proliferation function in weaned piglets. A total of 90 piglets (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire) of both sexes were randomly allotted to 5 dietary treatments. Each treatment consisted of 3 replicates with 6 piglets per replicate. The dietary treatments consisted of the negative control (NC; basal diet), positive control (PC; basal diet supplemented with 400 mg/kg Astragalus polysaccharide), and ABP (basal diet mixed with 250, 500, and 1,000 mg/kg ABP). The experimental lasted for 28 d. Two piglets from each replicate were selected randomly for blood samples extraction from the jugular vein to obtain peripheral blood T cell subsets, and T cell proliferation function analysis was performed on d 32, 39, 46, and 53. Two piglets from each replicate were selected and euthanized to observe the spleen cell cycle and apoptosis on d 39 and 53. In ABP-sufficient piglets, the G0/G1 phase of the spleen cell cycle was much lower (P < 0.05) and the S and G2 + M phases and proliferation index (PI) were greater (P < 0.05) than in NC piglets. The percentage of apoptotic cells in the spleen significantly decreased under ABP sufficiency (P < 0.05). The proliferation function of peripheral blood T cells increased (P < 0.05) in ABP-sufficient piglets. Percentages of CD3 (+) and CD3 (+)CD4 (+) ratios (d 39, 46, and 53) and CD4 (+)CD8 (+) ratios (d 32, 39, 46, and 53) increased remarkably (P < 0.05) under ABP sufficiency compared with NC. These results suggest that ABP sufficiency could increase the T cell population and proliferation function of T cells and could induce decreased percentages of apoptotic cells. Overall, the cellular immune function was evidently improved in weaned piglets. We suggest optimal dosages of 500 mg/kg ABP for 4-wk addition and 1,000 mg/kg ABP for 2-wk addition.

Germline-specific and sexually dimorphic expression of a dead end gene homologue in turbot (Scophthalmus maximus)

Germ cells are indispensable for gonadal development and fertility. However, the physiological mechanisms regulating germ cell development in marine fish are poorly understood due to a lack of germ cell markers. The dead end (dnd) gene is a vertebrate-specific component of germplasm crucial for primordial germ cells (PGCs) migration and development in teleosts. In this study, we identified a dnd homologue (Smdnd) in turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) and investigated its expression pattern during embryogenesis and gonadal development. The deduced amino acid sequence of Smdnd shared several conserved motifs of Dnd homologues as well as high identity to other Dnd proteins. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the SmDnd was closely related to its teleost counterparts. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and in situ hybridization revealed that Smdnd transcripts could be exclusively detected in germ cells, including presumptive PGC and adult male and female germ cells. In addition, an interesting sexually dimorphic expression of Smdnd during gonadal development was observed by real-time PCR. Female turbot showed greater (P < 0.05) Smdnd expression than male before sex maturation. This difference reduced gradually due to the upregulation of Smdnd in the male during the period corresponding to spermatogonia proliferation and meiosis. These results indicate that Smdnd can be used as a germ cell marker in turbot. In addition, the temporal and sex differences in Smdnd expression indicate that this gene may play different roles in gonadal development in both sexes.

Digestive enzyme activities of turbot (Scophthalmus maximus L.) during early developmental stages under culture condition

Digestive enzyme activities were analysed in turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) from hatching until 60 days after hatching (DAH). Trypsin sharply increased to the climax at 17 DAH and decreased until 31 DAH followed by a stable level thereafter. Amylase was determined at 4 DAH, reached the maximum value at 19 DAH and declined sharply to 39 DAH and remained at a low level thereafter, suggesting the carbohydrate component should remain at a low level in formulated diets. Pepsin was detected at 9 DAH and increased to 34 DAH and then remained at a stable level. The above results revealed pancreatic enzymes are no longer main enzymes for food digestion after the formation of functional stomach. Leucine-alanine peptidase (Leu-ala) and alkaline phosphatase (AP) and leucine aminopeptidase N (LAP) were found in newly hatched larvae. Both AP and LAP activities markedly increased to 23 DAH, decreased abruptly to 50 DAH and increased gradually to 60 DAH. Leu-ala reached the plateau from 23 to 39 DAH, followed by a decline to 46 DAH and an increase until 60 DAH. The brush border membrane (BBM)-bound enzyme activities increased from 30% at 31 DAH to 81% at 38 DAH of the total activities, indicating the maturation of intestinal tract.

Skeletal development and abnormalities of the vertebral column and of the fins in hatchery-reared turbot Scophthalmus maximus

To describe the skeletal development and abnormalities in turbot Scophthalmus maximus, samples were collected every day from hatching to 60 days after hatching (DAH). A whole-mount cartilage and bone-staining technique was used. Vertebral ontogeny started with the formation of anterior haemal arches at 5·1 mm standard length (L(S) ) c. 11 DAH, and was completed by the full attainment of parapophyses at 16·9 mm L(S) c. 31 DAH. Vertebral centra started to develop at 6·3 mm L(S) c. 16 DAH and ossification in all centra was visible at 11·0 mm L(S) c. 25 DAH. The caudal fin appeared at 5·1 mm L(S) c. 11 DAH and ossification was visible at 20·6 mm L(S) c. 37 DAH. The onset of dorsal and anal fin elements appeared at 5·8 mm L(S) c. 15 DAH and 6·3 mm L(S) c. 16 DAH, respectively. Ossifications of both dorsal fin and anal fin were visible at 20·6 mm L(S) c. 37 DAH. The pectorals were the only fins present before first feeding, their ossifications were completed at 23·5 mm L(S) c. 48 DAH. Pelvic fins began forming at 7·2 mm L(S) c. 19 DAH and calcification of the whole structure was visible at 19·8 mm L(S) c. 36 DAH. In the present study, 24 types of skeletal abnormalities were observed. About 51% of individuals presented skeletal abnormalities, and the highest occurrence was found in the haemal region of the vertebral column. As for each developmental stage, the most common abnormalities were in the dorsal fin during early metamorphic period (stage 2), vertebral fusion during climax metamorphosis (stage 3) and caudal fin abnormality during both late-metamorphic period (stage 4) and post-metamorphic period (stage 5). Such research will be useful for early detection of skeletal malformations during different growth periods of reared S. maximus.

Germ cells and fertilization differences among Japanese flounder Paralichthys olivaceus, summer flounder Paralichthys dentatus and their first and second generations

The morphology of gametes and the fertilization biology of Japanese flounder Paralichthys olivaceus (Po), summer flounder Paralichthys dentatus (Pd) and their hybrids were examined. Multiple generations (two hybrids: Po♀× Pd♂ (F1) and Pd♀× Po♂; two backcrosses: F1♀× Po♂ and F1♀× Pd♂) were obtained by artificial insemination. Comparison of egg ultrastructure among Po, Pd and F1 showed the morphology of micropyle region and the distribution density of pores were species specific. There were c. 100-200 accessory openings around the micropyle in Po, but not in Pd and F1. The zona radiata thickness and number of parallel bands were similar between F1 and Po, which were different from Pd. Comparison of spermatozoa ultrastructure revealed a close relationship between Po and Pd. Cytologically, the six crosses obeyed normal fertilization and cleavage processes, and only one male pronucleus was observed in a fertilized egg, indicating a monospermic fertilization pattern. Analysis of the time distribution from fertilization to first cleavage revealed an obvious delay at pronucleus fusion in the Pd × Po cross. The delay might indicate some cytoplasmic-nuclear incompatibility during the process of fertilization.

Study on permeability of DMSO in embryos of red seabream (Pagrus major) by capillary electrophoresis

The objectives were to investigate the permeability of DMSO to red seabream (Pagrus major) embryos by capillary electrophoresis and the effects of DMSO concentrations (5 to 40 percent, volume basis) and immersion times (10, 30 and 60 min) on hatching rate and morphology. The results suggested the internal DMSO concentrations were positively related with the external concentrations and exposure times, while the hatching rate was negatively related. The hatching rate decreased drastically (less than 50 percent) after exposure in 35 percent, 20 percent and 15 percent DMSO for over 10, 30 and 60 min, respectively. In all groups, when hatching rate was greater 50 percent, the internal DMSO concentration was less than 2 percent, which was still insufficient for successful cryopreservation. Morphological changes indicated the chorion was permeable to the cryoprotectant. A sign of dehydration in yolk were observed, for a significant decrease in the maximal yolk sac diameter. However, further research was needed to investigate whether the DMSO permeated into the yolk.

Changes in RNA, DNA, protein contents and growth of turbot Scophthalmus maximus larvae and juveniles

The growth potential of turbot Scophthalmus maximus larvae and juveniles was studied using nucleic acid-based indices and protein variables. The experiment was carried out from 4 to 60 days post hatching (dph). A significant increase in instantaneous growth rate during metamorphosis and retarded growth rate during post-metamorphic phase were observed. Ontogenetic patterns of DNA, RNA and protein all showed developmental stage-specific traits. The RNA:DNA ratio decreased up to 12 dph, then increased rapidly till 19 dph and fluctuated until 35 dph followed by a decline to the end. The RNA:DNA ratio was positively correlated with growth rate of juveniles during the post-metamorphic phase, whereas this ratio was not a sensitive indicator of growth during the pre-metamorphic phase and metamorphosis. The protein:DNA ratio showed a similar tendency to the RNA:DNA ratio. Changes of DNA content and protein:DNA ratio revealed that growth of S. maximus performed mainly by hyperplasia from 4 to 12 dph and hypertrophy until 21 dph during the pre-metamorphic larval phase. Growth was dominantly hypertrophical from the early- to mid-metamorphosing phase and hyperplastic thereafter. The results show that the DNA content and protein:DNA ratio can evaluate growth rates of larval and juvenile S. maximus on a cellular level.

An efficient compact 300 mW narrow-linewidth single frequency fiber laser at 1.5 microm

An efficient single frequency fiber laser by using a newly-developed Er(3+)/Yb(3+) co-doped single mode phosphate glass fiber with the net gain coefficient of 5.2 dB/cm and propagation loss coefficient of 0.04 dB/cm has been demonstrated. Over 300 mW stable continuous -wave single transverse and longitudinal mode seed lasering at 1.5 microm has been achieved from a 2.0 cm-long active fiber. The measured slope efficiency and the calculated quantum efficiency of laser emission are found to be 30.9% and 0.938 +/- 0.081, respectively. It is found that the linewidth of the fiber laser is less than 2 kHz, and the measured relative intensity noise (RIN) is around -120 dB/Hz in the frequency range of 50 to 500 kHz.

Analytical investigation on transient thermal effects in pulse end-pumped short-length fiber laser

The transient heat conduction and thermal effects in pulse end-pumped fiber laser are modeled and analytically solved. For the arbitrary temporal shape of pump pulse, a three-dimensional (3D) temperature expression is derived via an integral transform method, and the thermal stress field is deduced through solving the Navier displacement equations. The results show that pulse shape has an important influence on the peak thermal stress and transient phase shift induced by heating of the fiber. Reasonable design for pulse duration and period can reduce thermal effects and optimize the performance of high-power fiber laser.

3-Dimensional heat analysis in short-length Er3+/Yb3+ co-doped phosphate fiber laser with upconversion

A 3-dimenstional (3D) heat flow model of laser diode (LD) pumped short-length Er(3+)/Yb(3+) heavily co-doped phosphate fiber laser that includes the energy-transfer upconversion (ETU) effects has been developed. The fully 3D analytical solution with the consideration of longitudinal heat flow has been given to describe the temperature distribution in phosphate fiber. The calculated results show that both ETU processes and longitudinal heat conduction have a great influence on the fiber laser performance. Finally, we have validated the analytical expression by measuring the temperature distribution of an end-pumped short-length Er(3+)/Yb(3+) co-doped fiber laser, which was placed into the copper tube.

Insight into hepatocellular carcinogenesis at transcriptome level by comparing gene expression profiles of hepatocellular carcinoma with those of corresponding noncancerous liver

Human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide. In this work, we report on a comprehensive characterization of gene expression profiles of hepatitis B virus-positive HCC through the generation of a large set of 5'-read expressed sequence tag (EST) clusters (11,065 in total) from HCC and noncancerous liver samples, which then were applied to a cDNA microarray system containing 12,393 genes/ESTs and to comparison with a public database. The commercial cDNA microarray, which contains 1,176 known genes related to oncogenesis, was used also for profiling gene expression. Integrated data from the above approaches identified 2,253 genes/ESTs as candidates with differential expression. A number of genes related to oncogenesis and hepatic function/differentiation were selected for further semiquantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR analysis in 29 paired HCC/noncancerous liver samples. Many genes involved in cell cycle regulation such as cyclins, cyclin-dependent kinases, and cell cycle negative regulators were deregulated in most patients with HCC. Aberrant expression of the Wnt-beta-catenin pathway and enzymes for DNA replication also could contribute to the pathogenesis of HCC. The alteration of transcription levels was noted in a large number of genes implicated in metabolism, whereas a profile change of others might represent a status of dedifferentiation of the malignant hepatocytes, both considered as potential markers of diagnostic value. Notably, the altered transcriptome profiles in HCC could be correlated to a number of chromosome regions with amplification or loss of heterozygosity, providing one of the underlying causes of the transcription anomaly of HCC.

Muscarinic modulation of GABAergic transmission to neurons in the rat subfornical organ

Cholinergic actions on subfornical organ (SFO) neurons in rat slice preparations were studied by using whole cell voltage- and current-clamp recordings. In the voltage-clamp recordings, carbachol and muscarine decreased the frequency of GABAergic inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) in a dose-dependent manner, with no effect on the amplitudes or the time constants of miniature IPSCs. Meanwhile, carbachol did not influence the amplitude of the outward currents induced by GABA. Furthermore, carbachol and muscarine also elicited inward currents in a TTX-containing solution. From the current-voltage relationship, the reversal potential was estimated to be −7.1 mV. These carbachol-induced responses were antagonized by atropine. In the current-clamp recordings, carbachol depolarized the membrane with increased frequency of action potentials. These observations suggest that acetylcholine suppresses GABA release through muscarinic receptors located on the presynaptic terminals. Acetylcholine also directly affects the postsynaptic membrane through muscarinic receptors, by opening nonselective cation channels. A combination of these presynaptic and postsynaptic actions may enhance activation of SFO neurons by acetylcholine.

Gene expression profiling in the human hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis and full-length cDNA cloning

The primary neuroendocrine interface, hypothalamus and pituitary, together with adrenals, constitute the major axis responsible for the maintenance of homeostasis and the response to the perturbations in the environment. The gene expression profiling in the human hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis was catalogued by generating a large amount of expressed sequence tags (ESTs), followed by bioinformatics analysis (http://www.chgc.sh.cn/ database). Totally, 25,973 sequences of good quality were obtained from 31,130 clones (83.4%) from cDNA libraries of the hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal glands. After eliminating 5,347 sequences corresponding to repetitive elements and mtDNA, 20,626 ESTs could be assembled into 9, 175 clusters (3,979, 3,074, and 4,116 clusters in hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal glands, respectively) when overlapping ESTs were integrated. Of these clusters, 2,777 (30.3%) corresponded to known genes, 4,165 (44.8%) to dbESTs, and 2,233 (24.3%) to novel ESTs. The gene expression profiles reflected well the functional characteristics of the three levels in the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, because most of the 20 genes with highest expression showed statistical difference in terms of tissue distribution, including a group of tissue-specific functional markers. Meanwhile, some findings were made with regard to the physiology of the axis, and 200 full-length cDNAs of novel genes were cloned and sequenced. All of these data may contribute to the understanding of the neuroendocrine regulation of human life.

Photoelectron diffraction imaging for C2H2 and C2H4 chemisorbed on Si(100) reveals a new bonding configuration

A new adsorption site for adsorbed acetylene on Si(100) is observed by photoelectron imaging based on the holographic principle. The diffraction effects in the carbon 1s angle-resolved photoemission are inverted (including the small-cone method) to obtain an image of the atom's neighboring carbon. The chemisorbed acetylene molecule is bonded to four silicon surface atoms. In contrast to the C2H2 case, the image for adsorbed C2H4 shows it bonded to two Si surface atoms.

Glutamatergic synaptic inputs activate neurons in the subfornical organ through non-NMDA receptors

The subfornical organ (SFO) plays an important role in central regulation of the autonomic nervous system. The synaptic transmission properties of neurons in the SFO were studied with intracellular and whole-cell patch clamp recordings in the rat slice preparations. Both the spontaneous and evoked excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) and currents (EPSCs) were almost completely suppressed by the glutamate receptor antagonist kynurenic acid and the non-NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartic acid) antagonist CNQX. The non-NMDA agonist kainic acid depolarized the membrane most potently, compared with NMDA and quisqualic acid. These suggest that glutamate is a main excitatory neurotransmitter in the SFO and that its action is at least partly mediated through non-NMDA receptors.

Identification of genes expressed in human CD34(+) hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells by expressed sequence tags and efficient full-length cDNA cloning

Hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) possess the potentials of self-renewal, proliferation, and differentiation toward different lineages of blood cells. These cells not only play a primordial role in hematopoietic development but also have important clinical application. Characterization of the gene expression profile in CD34(+) HSPCs may lead to a better understanding of the regulation of normal and pathological hematopoiesis. In the present work, genes expressed in human umbilical cord blood CD34(+) cells were catalogued by partially sequencing a large amount of cDNA clones [or expressed sequence tags (ESTs)] and analyzing these sequences with the tools of bioinformatics. Among 9,866 ESTs thus obtained, 4,697 (47.6%) showed identity to known genes in the GenBank database, 2, 603 (26.4%) matched to the ESTs previously deposited in a public domain database, 1,415 (14.3%) were previously undescribed ESTs, and the remaining 1,151 (11.7%) were mitochondrial DNA, ribosomal RNA, or repetitive (Alu or L1) sequences. Integration of ESTs of known genes generated a profile including 855 genes that could be divided into different categories according to their functions. Some (8.2%) of the genes in this profile were considered related to early hematopoiesis. The possible function of ESTs corresponding to so far unknown genes were approached by means of homology and functional motif searches. Moreover, attempts were made to generate libraries enriched for full-length cDNAs, to better explore the genes in HSPCs. Nearly 60% of the cDNA clones of mRNA under 2 kb in our libraries had 5' ends upstream of the first ATG codon of the ORF. With this satisfactory result, we have developed an efficient working system that allowed fast sequencing of 32 full-length cDNAs, 16 of them being mapped to the chromosomes with radiation hybrid panels. This work may lay a basis for the further research on the molecular network of hematopoietic regulation.

[Contrast analysis of brainstem auditory evoked potential in untreated and treated hepatolenticular degeneration patients with treatment of combining traditional Chinese and Western medicine]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effect of combination therapy of traditional and Western medicine (TCM-WM) on brainstem auditory evoked potential (BAEP) in hepatolenticular degeneration patients.

METHODS

BAEP was recorded and analyzed in 65 patients with hepatolenticular degeneration (HLD) before and after decoppered TCM-WM treatment.

RESULTS

The peak latency (PL) and interpeak latency (IPL) of BAEP in untreated patients were greatly increased compared with those of control group, especially in the prolongations of III, V, III- V and I-V. The PL and IPL improved as improvement of clinical symptoms in HLD patients treated with TCM-WM than that in untreated patients. The abnormal rates of men and women in BAEP were decreased from 21.97% and 19.05% in untreated patients to 9.09% and 6.75% in treated patients respectively.

CONCLUSION

BAEP not only has an complementary diagnosis but also judge the efficacy of treatment on the HLD disease.

[Study of surgical instruments contamination by bacteria from air during the operation]

Routinely sterilized surgical instruments were divided into two groups and put on the same instrument table, one group was covered with dressing and the other was exposed to the air. The samples were collected at 30 min, 60 min, and 90 min respectively after operation began and bacterium culture was done. The results showed that the general air contamination rate of the exposed group was 1.18 times higher than that of the covered one. The exposure time had a positive correlation with bacterium contamination rate. This study gave the laboratory evidence for controlling the infection in the operation room.

[Prospective study on intelligence quotient of 28 hepatic lenticular degeneration patients with treatment combining traditional Chinese and Western medicine]

Intelligence quotient (IQ) of 28 hepatic lenticular degeneration (HLD) patients was analysed with Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-revised by China (WAIS-RC) before and after two months treatment by the HLD-Relief decoction supplemented with copper-clearing drug, and the result was compared with that of 30 healthy persons for control. The results showed that the Vocable IQ (VIQ), Performance IQ(PIQ) and Full IQ(FIQ) of HLD patients were markedly lower than that of control (P < 0.005), especially in visual space disorder, which indicated that the copper ion depositing in patient's brain not only damaged neuronic motorial functions but also produced a marked effect on the patient's intelligence. After treatment, the total intelligential level including VIQ, PIQ and FIQ has been raised, particularly in PIQ in which all scores were obviously increased (P < 0.001). It was also showed that the damage of intelligence in HLD patient became more serious as the course of disease was prolonged and the early treatment facilitated the IQ level to approach the normal criterion. It indicated that the treatment with combined therapy is effective to the intelligence and extrapyramidal symptoms in HLD patients.

An STS-based map of the human genome

A physical map has been constructed of the human genome containing 15,086 sequence-tagged sites (STSs), with an average spacing of 199 kilobases. The project involved assembly of a radiation hybrid map of the human genome containing 6193 loci and incorporated a genetic linkage map of the human genome containing 5264 loci. This information was combined with the results of STS-content screening of 10,850 loci against a yeast artificial chromosome library to produce an integrated map, anchored by the radiation hybrid and genetic maps. The map provides radiation hybrid coverage of 99 percent and physical coverage of 94 percent of the human genome. The map also represents an early step in an international project to generate a transcript map of the human genome, with more than 3235 expressed sequences localized. The STSs in the map provide a scaffold for initiating large-scale sequencing of the human genome.

Inhibitory effects of low-dose polymyxin B on hemorrhage-induced endotoxin/bacterial translocation and cytokine formation in rats

The current experiments were performed to determine the effects of a subtherapeutic dose of polymyxin B sulfate on gut origin endotoxemia/bacterial translocation, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin-1 (IL-1) release following hemorrhagic shock (30 mm Hg, 90 min) in rats. The results showed that significant portal and systemic endotoxemia took place in the control group (portal, 0.269 to 0.845 endotoxin units (EU)/mL; systemic, 0.164 to 0.655 EU/mL), but not in the treatment group (except 0.5 hour in portal blood: 0.207 +/- 0.094 EU/mL). Concomitantly, the incidence of bacterial translocation to the mesenteric lymph nodes and viscera were reduced significantly at 0.5, 2, 6, and 24 hours postresuscitation in animals receiving polymyxin B (p < 0.05 to 0.01), whereas there were no differences with respect to number of translocating bacteria between the two groups (p > 0.05). Marked elevation of plasma TNF levels and IL-1 activities of peritoneal macrophages were also found in untreated controls at 0.5 to 2 hours (p < 0.05) and 6 to 24 hours (p < 0.05 to 0.01), respectively, but prevented by administration of low-dose polymyxin B. The 48-hour survival rate was improved from 41.7% in the control group to 75.0% in the treatment ones (p > 0.05). These data suggest that pretreatment with a subtherapeutic dose of polymyxin B is effective to inhibit hemorrhage-induced endotoxin/bacterial translocation from the gut and excessive TNF and IL-1 production.

The potential etiologic role of tumor necrosis factor in mediating multiple organ dysfunction in rats following intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury

Endogenous inflammatory cytokines may function as mediators in the development of remote organ damage in response to local ischemic insult. This study was designed to (a) explore the potential role of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) formation in the pathogenesis of systemic tissue injury, (b) determine the relationship between induction of TNF and gut-derived endotoxemia and/or bacterial translocation, and (c) evaluate the protective effect of anti-TNF monoclonal antibody (MoAb) for vital organs following intestinal ischemia-reperfusion in rats. Animals were subjected to superior mesenteric artery occlusion (SMAO) for 45 min. Systemic plasma TNF levels increased rapidly after the onset of reperfusion, reaching a peak value 2 h later (P < 0.01). TNF elevation was found to be associated with gut origin endotoxemia, where the maximal TNF levels occurred approximately 2 h after the initial appearance of endotoxin in portal vein. Prophylactic treatment with anti-TNF MoAb markedly blunted the elevation in plasma TNF levels and afforded protection from the development of hypotension, vital organs dysfunction, and metabolic acidosis. Significant improvement in 48-h survival rate was observed by administration of anti-TNF MoAb prior to inducing ischemia (P = 0.007). These findings suggest that intestinal ischemia-reperfusion could result in TNF production, which may play a key role in mediating subsequent septic response and systemic tissue injury. It seems likely that passage of endotoxin and bacteria from the gut can be responsible for the TNF formation

[The antimetastatic effects of BJA-II on nude mice with highly metastatic human ovarian carcinoma]

Nude mice with highly metastatic human ovarian carcinoma were treated with BJA-II. This new agent was made in our institute. Twenty-four experimental mice were divided into 4 groups with 6 mice each. The mice, according to the treatment given them, were designated as: the BJA-II group, the cisplatin group, the group with combination therapy and the control group. Treatment began on the 2nd day after tumor transplantation. For BJA-II, a dose of 16 mg per mouse per day was administered orally. The total dose each mouse received by the 53rd day was 848mg. The tumor growth inhibition rate was found to be 63.7% in the BJA-II group; the transplanted tumors disappeared in 2 mice. No significant difference in average tumor weight was found between the BJA-II group and the control group (P < 0.05). The antimetastatic effect of BJA-II (1 mouse with metastasis) was higher than that of the control group (4 mice with metastasis). The influences on the immunofunction of the host were observed: the increase of the peripheral WBC count, the increase of NK cell activity, the increase in the ratio of spleen weight to body weight, and the histiocyte increase in the lymph node sinuses, etc. All of these findings were better demonstrated in the BJA-II group than in the cisplatin group. The results indicate that BJA-II is provided with the effectiveness of inhibiting tumor growth, is antimetastatic and is capable of increasing the immunofunction of the host.

Nationwide survey of human parasite in China

A nationwide survey of human parasites in China was conducted during 1988-1992, with a coverage of 30 provinces/autonomous regions/municipalities (P/A/M). A total of 2,848 pilot sites in 726 counties were selected by random sampling, and 1,477,742 individuals residing on were surveyed by fecal examination. The status of paragonimiasis, hydatid diseases, cysticercosis and trichinellosis were summarized through data review. The overall infection rate of intestinal parasites was 62.6% whereas at provincial level, the highest infection rate (94.7%) was recovered in Hainan, and the lowest (17.5%) in Heilong-jiang. A high proportion (43.3%) of polyparasitism among the infected population (882,080) was revealed. Altogether 56 species of parasites comprising protozoa (19), trematode (16), cestodes (8), nematodes (12) and thorny-headed worm (1) were discovered. During the survey a new species and several new records were documented. The number of the population infected with common intestinal parasites was estimated. The diversities of parasite distribution were noted in different nationalities as well as in varied occupations.

Psychophysiological reactions associated with qigong therapy

Qigong as a part of the traditional Chinese medicine is similar to western "meditation", Indian "Yoga" or Japanese "Zen", which can all be included in the category of traditional psychotherapy. A series of physiological and psychological effects occur in the course of Qigong training, but inappropriate training can lead to physical and mental disturbances. Physiological effects include changes in EEG, EMG, respiratory movement, heart rate, skin potential, skin temperature and finger tip volume, sympathetic nerve function, function in stomach and intestine, metabolism, endocrine and immunity systems. Psychological effects are motor phenomena and perceptual changes: patients experienced warmness, chilliness, itching sensation in the skin, numbness, soreness, bloatedness, relaxation, tenseness, floating, dropping, enlargement or constriction of the body image, a sensation of rising to the sky, falling off, standing upside down, playing on the swing following respiration, circulation of the intrinsic Qi, electric shock, formication, during Qigong exercise. Some patients experienced dreamland illusions, unreality and pseudohallucination. These phenomena were transient and vanished as the exercise terminated. Qigong deviation syndrome has become a diagnostic term and is now used widely in China.

[The establishment of human ovarian carcinoma cell line HO-8910 and its characteristics]

A cell line designated HO-8910 was established in vitro from the ascitic fluid of a patient with poorly-differentiated ovarian papillary serous cyst-adenocarcinoma. The cell line grew well through 130 passages and showed malignant epithelial morphology under light and electron microscopes. The chromosome number varied widely from 45 to 300 and its model was 54(42%); The DNA index was 1.45 as measured by FCM method; Both of them showed aneuploidy. The cell line has the ability to secrete steroid sex hormones and also has hormone receptors. When transplanted into nude mice, the xenograft has similar pathological characteristic to the original. It is expected that this cell line would be of great help in the future study on ovarian carcinoma.

Traditional Chinese medicine typing of affective disorders and treatment

According to the theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), 50 patients with affective disorders were typed into the categories of depressed liver resulting in fire, mild Yang deficiency and mild Yin deficiency and were treated with Xiao Yao San Jia Wei. The results are 26 patients with marked improvement, 17 patients with improvement and 7 patients with no improvement.

[The effect of low dose aspirin on the platelet function in patients with acute myocardial infarction]

To assess the appropriate dose of aspirin in the treatment of patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), 60 cases of AMI were randomized into 2 groups, 30 cases each; one with conventional therapy, another with conventional therapy combined with daily oral aspirin 100mg. The second group was further divided into subgroup I with serum peak CK < 1000 U/L and subgroup II with serum peak CK > 1000U/L. The parameters of platelet function including plasma TXB2, TXB2/6-keto-PGF1 alpha, platelet aggregation induced by 5-HT and epinephrine were studied on different days for 3 weeks. The results revealed that there was a successful inhibition of platelet function as assessed by significant decrease of plasma TXB2 and TXB2/6-keto-PGF1 alpha ratio and inhibition of platelet aggregation in the subgroup I, but little effect on subgroup II. It is shown that in the treatment of AMI, a daily dose of 100mg of aspirin is insufficient for severe cases, and according to the observation in ISIS-2 study, a daily dose of aspirin around 160mg may be appropriate.

Protective effect of Re-LPS antiserum on experimental multiple system organ failure

This study examines the possible beneficial effect of Re-LPS (F515) antiserum on experimental multiple system organ failure (MSOF) in rabbits. The results showed that the plasma LPS level was significantly decreased, and it took a shorter period to clear up LPS in experimental than in control rabbits after receiving Re-LPS antiserum. Pretreatment with antiserum can markedly improve the function of the liver, lungs, kidneys, blood and gastrointestinal tract. The MSOF incidence in the group of rabbits receiving immune sera was only 11.2% and the survival rate was raised by about 40.0%. The results suggest that early passive immunotherapy may neutralize gut-derived endotoxin, inhibit endotoxin-induced mediators release and prevent development of severe complications due to sepsis. It is therefore postulated that LPS core antiserum may provide a prophylactic effect on the development of experimental MSOF.

Prospective evaluation of the use of antigen-specific immune complexes in predicting the development of recurrent melanoma

We previously demonstrated that the antigen-specific immune complexes captured by the monoclonal antibody MAb JSI in a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were associated with recurrent melanoma. To determine the potential use of antigen-specific immune complex analysis in predicting the development of recurrent melanoma, we prospectively analyzed serum obtained from patients with melanoma following surgical treatment. Two hundred fifty-three patients have been followed up for a median of 25 months (range, 17 to 29 months). Seventy-seven patients (30%) have developed recurrent melanoma. Antigen-specific immune complexes correlated with the stage of disease at time of entry into the study. The absence of antigen-specific immune complexes in postoperative serum samples is predictive of a disease-free status. Long-term follow-up will define the false-positive rate of antigen-specific immune complex analysis. Continued refinement of this approach should lead to clinically useful methodology to monitor human melanoma.

Malaria and its control in the People's Republic of China

Malaria is one of the major parasitic diseases in China. During the past 40 years, large scale malaria control activities were conducted in the country relying on primary health care nets and community participation. The control of malaria was implemented according to the principles of adopting integrated measures and repeated practices which are characterized by time- and locality-oriented approaches. As a result, remarkable success has been achieved. By the end of 1990, there were 117,000 malaria cases in China, with a morbidity of 0.0106%, which dropped by 95% in comparison with that in the 1950s. Most of the original hyper-endemic areas became meso- or hypo-endemic and for most of the previously meso- or hypo-endemic areas, the disease became sporadic. Malaria distribution and epidemic patterns also demonstrated great changes. The major experience comprises the integration of the malaria control program into the overall national health program, the mobilization of various sectors, including the community, the investigators and technical personnel in research institutions and control services to participate and cooperate in solving problems and difficulties encountered.

[The application of 5-HT and 5-HIAA in the diagnosis of apudomas]

5-HT apudomas are rare. In our country, so far there has been no detailed report about using whole blood 5-HT and urinary 5-HIAA in the diagnosis of apudomas. Measurement of whole blood 5-HT in 87 and urinary 5-HIAA in 44 apudoma patients has been carried out in our laboratory since 1980. The results showed that the values of whole blood 5-HT and urinary 5-HIAA were significantly higher in apudoma patients than those in non-apudoma, postoperative apudoma and normal groups. The value of whole blood 5-HT over 130 micrograms/ml and urinary 5-HIAA over 30 mg/24 h were preliminarily recommended as diagnostic for apudomas.

Immunochemical characterization of a tumor-associated antigen defined by a monoclonal antibody

A murine monoclonal antibody of the subclass IgG2b, designated MAb JSI, was produced utilizing standard hybridoma technology. Female BALB/c mice were immunized with a fetal antigen that had been partially purified from the spent serum-free culture media of a human melanoma cell line. Utilizing MAb JSI, the antigen was isolated from serum of melanoma patients by affinity chromatography utilizing an acid elution and studied following exposure to trypsin, protease, and heat in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The antigenic activity was destroyed following treatment with trypsin and protease as well as by exposure to heat (100 degrees C). By immunoperoxidase staining, MAb JSI reacted with melanoma, carcinoma, and sarcoma cell lines, but not with cell lines derived from normal skin or lungs. Affinity-isolated antigen was subjected to polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and stained with Coomassie blue. Under dissociating conditions, a band in the 31,000 to 42,700 Da range was identified that was shown to be reactive with MAb JSI in ELISA. The antigenic determinant defined by MAb JSI appears to be a protein, with expression on a number of malignant tissues.