pH/enzyme dual sensitive Gegenqinlian pellets coated with Bletilla striata polysaccharide membranes for the treatment of ulcerative colitis

Gegen Qinlian Decoction, derived from Zhang Zhongjing's Treatise on Typhoid Fever, has been widely used in the treatment of various common diseases, frequently-occurring diseases and difficult and complicated diseases, such as ulcerative colitis. In this study, Bletilla striata polysaccharide (BSP) was innovatively used as a film coating material to prepare Gegen Qinlian pellets with dual sensitivity of pH enzyme for the treatment of ulcerative colitis. BSP has the ability to repair the inflamed colon mucosa and can produce synergistic effects, while avoiding the adverse therapeutic effects caused by the early release of drugs from a single pH-sensitive pellets in the small intestine. The prepared pellets have a uniform particle size, good roundness, a particle size range from 0.8 mm to 1.0 mm, and a particle yield is 85.6 %. The results of in vitro release showed that ES-BSP pellets hardly released drugs in the pH range of 1.2-6.8. However, in the colon mimic fluid containing specific enzymes, the drug release was significantly accelerated, demonstrating the sensitivity of the pellets to pH enzymes. In vivo and ex vivo fluorescence imaging of small animals showed that Gegen Qinlian pellets with dual sensitivity of pH enzyme remained longer in the colon compared with pH-sensitive pellets. In vivo pharmacodynamics study showed that the Gegen Qinlian pellets with dual sensitivity of pH enzyme had a better therapeutic effect in the rat model of the ulcerative colon than the commercially available Gegenqinlian pellets in the control group.

[Observational study on perioperative outcomes of pelvic exenteration]

Objective: To investigate the surgical indications and perioperative clinical outcomes of pelvic exenteration (PE) for locally advanced, recurrent pelvic malignancies and complex pelvic fistulas. Methods: This was a descriptive study.The indications for performing PE were: (1) locally advanced, recurrent pelvic malignancy or complex pelvic fistula diagnosed preoperatively by imaging and pathological examination of a biopsy; (2)preoperative agreement by a multi-disciplinary team that non-surgical and conventional surgical treatment had failed and PE was required; and (3) findings on intraoperative exploration confirming this conclusion.Contraindications to this surgical procedure comprised cardiac and respiratory dysfunction, poor nutritional status,and mental state too poor to tolerate the procedure.Clinical data of 141 patients who met the above criteria, had undergone PE in the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University from January 2018 to September 2022, had complete perioperative clinical data, and had given written informed consent to the procedure were collected,and the operation,relevant perioperative variables, postoperative pathological findings (curative resection), and early postoperative complications were analyzed. Results: Of the 141 included patients, 43 (30.5%) had primary malignancies, 61 (43.3%) recurrent malignancies, 28 (19.9%) complex fistulas after radical resection of malignancies,and nine (6.4%)complex fistulas caused by benign disease. There were 79 cases (56.0%) of gastrointestinal tumors, 30 cases (21.3%) of reproductive tumors, 16 cases (11.3%) of urinary tumors, and 7 cases (5.0%) of other tumors such mesenchymal tissue tumors. Among the 104 patients with primary and recurrent malignancies, 15 patients with severe complications of pelvic perineum of advanced tumors were planned to undergo palliative PE surgery for symptom relief after preoperative assessment of multidisciplinary team; the other 89 patients were evaluated for radical PE surgery. All surgeries were successfully completed. Total PE was performed on 73 patients (51.8%),anterior PE on 22 (15.6%),and posterior PE in 46 (32.6%). The median operative time was 576 (453,679) minutes, median intraoperative blood loss 500 (200, 1 200) ml, and median hospital stay 17 (13.0,30.5)days.There were no intraoperative deaths. Of the 89 patients evaluated for radical PE surgery, the radical R0 resection was achieved in 64 (71.9%) of them, R1 resection in 23 (25.8%), and R2 resection in two (2.2%). One or more postoperative complications occurred in 85 cases (60.3%), 32 (22.7%)of which were Clavien-Dindo grade III and above.One patient (0.7%)died during the perioperative period. Conclusion: PE is a valid option for treating locally advanced or recurrent pelvic malignancies and complex pelvic fistulas.

[Effects and mechanism of pressure treatment on hemodynamic changes in patients with hypertrophic scar secondary to extensive burns]

Objective: To investigate the hemodynamic changes of the main arteries and veins of the extremities and the heart in patients with hypertrophic scar secondary to extensive burns after pressure treatment, and to analyze the relevant mechanisms. Methods: A retrospective before-after self-control study was conducted. From January 2017 to February 2022, 37 patients with hypertrophic scar secondary to extensive burns who met the inclusion criteria were hospitalized in the Burn Rehabilitation Department of Guangdong Industrial Injury Rehabilitation Hospital, including 25 males and 12 females, aged 23-52 years. The patients were admitted to the hospital within 12 weeks after wound healing, and within one week after admission, rehabilitation therapists, occupational therapists, and tailors custom-made pressure products such as full-body pressure garment, pressure pants, vests, split finger gloves, split finger socks, hoods, and plastic collars, with the pressure at each part maintained at 2.67-4.00 kPa when wearing. Before the first treatment with pressure products (hereinafter referred to as before pressure treatment) and at 1 h of the first treatment with pressure products (hereinafter referred to as 1 h of pressure treatment), color Doppler ultrasonography was performed to check the pulse rate of the axillary artery, the lumen diameter, peak systolic velocity (PSV), and resistance index of the axillary artery and femoral artery on the left side, the lumen diameter, cross-sectional area, and average blood flow velocity of the axillary vein and femoral vein, and the mitral valve E peak, mitral valve A peak, tricuspid valve E peak, aortic valve PSV, and pulmonary valve PSV of the heart; an optical chromatographic skin detector was used to detect the red color, red pigment, and surface brightness of the scar on the back of the hand to reflect the filling and distribution of the scar microvessels. Data were statistically analyzed with paired sample t test. Results: Compared with those before pressure treatment, the PSV of the axillary artery of patients was significantly slowed down at 1 h of pressure treatment (t=55.42, P<0.01); the average blood flow velocity of the axillary vein was significantly accelerated (t=-60.50, P<0.01); the pulse rate, lumen diameter, and resistance index of the axillary artery, as well as the lumen diameter and cross-sectional area of the axillary vein did not change obviously (P>0.05); the average blood flow velocity of the femoral vein was significantly accelerated (t=-80.52, P<0.01); the lumen diameter, PSV, and resistance index of the femoral artery, as well as the lumen diameter and cross-sectional area of the femoral vein had no significant change (P>0.05); the mitral valve E peak and mitral valve A peak of the heart decreased significantly (with t values of 10.71 and 21.96, respectively, P<0.01); the tricuspid valve E peak of the heart increased significantly (t=7.57, P<0.01); the PSV of the aortic valve and pulmonary valve of the heart did not change obviously (P>0.05). At 1 h of pressure treatment, the red color and red pigment values of the scar on the back of the hand of patients were 15.3±1.1 and 16.8±1.2, respectively, which were significantly lower than 24.5±1.3 and 23.8±1.2 before pressure treatment (with t values of 8.32 and 8.04, respectively, P<0.01). The brightness value of the scar surface on the back of the hand of patients at 1 h of pressure treatment was similar to that before pressure treatment (P>0.05). Conclusions: After pressure treatment for the hypertrophic scar in patients secondary to extensive burn, the average blood flow velocity of the axillary vein and femoral vein in patients are obviously accelerated, the PSV of the axillary artery is significantly slowed down, the peak values of mitral valve E and mitral valve A of the heart are significantly decreased, and the tricuspid valve E peak is significantly increased. These hemodynamic changes may be related to the reduction of microvascular blood flow in the local area of scar after systemic pressure treatment.

[Correlation analysis of cervical spine dysfunction, pain and muscle strength in office workers]

Objective: To expore the correlation between neck disability, neck pain and muscle strength in cervical pondylosis of office worker, and to provide scientific basis for the prevention and treatment of cervical spondylosis. Methods: In April 2021 ,234 patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy treated in the Subsidiary Rehabilitation Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine from April 2015 to April 2017 were selected, the correlation between Neck Disability Index (NDI) score, neck pain and muscle strength was analyzed using the Spearman rank correlation method. Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the difference of maximum muscle strength of isometric contraction. Results: NDI score was negatively correlated with neck flexion, extension, and muscle strength in the left and right flexion directions (r(s)=-0.164, -0.169, -0.222, -0.176, P=0.012, 0.010, 0.001 , 0.007). In mild and moderate functional disorder patients, the muscle strength in flexion, extension and left and right flexion direction was greater, the difference was statistically significant (P <0.01). Conclusion: There is a negative correlation between cervical functional disorder and cervical muscle strength in office workers, suggesting that strengthening cervical muscle strength may be a way to improve cervical spine function.

[Prenatal pyrethroid pesticides exposure and neurodevelopment of 2-year-old children: a birth cohort study]

Objective: To investigate the influence and critical windows of prenatal exposure to pyrethroid pesticides (PYRs) on neurodevelopment of 2-year-old children. Methods: The subjects of this study were derived from the Xuanwei Birth Cohort. A total of 482 pregnant women who participated in the rural district of Xuanwei birth cohort from January 2016 to December 2018 were included. Maternal urinary concentrations of PYRs metabolites during 8-12 gestational weeks, 20-23 gestational weeks and 32-35 gestational weeks were measured with ultra high performance liquid chromatography system coupled with a tandem mass spectrometry detector. Child neurodevelopment was evaluated with the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development-Third Edition at 2 years of age. Multivariate linear regression models and binary logistic regression models were used to assess the association between PYRs exposure during pregnancy and children's neurodevelopment. Results: A total of 360 mother-child pairs had complete data on maternal urinary PYRs metabolites detection and children's neurodevelopment assessment. The detection rate of any one PYRs metabolites during the first, second and third trimester were 93.6% (337/360), 90.8% (327/360) and 94.2% (339/360), respectively. The neurodevelopmental scores of Cognitive, Language, Motor, Social-Emotional, and Adaptive Behavior of 2-year-old children were (102.3±18.9), (100.2±16.3), (102.0±20.3), (107.8±23.3) and (85.8±18.6) points, respectively. After controlling for confounding factors, 4-fluoro-3-phenoxybenzoic acid (4F3PBA, one of PYRs metabolites) exposure in the first trimester reduced Motor (β=-5.02, 95%CI: -9.08, -0.97) and Adaptive Behavior (β=-4.12, 95%CI:-7.92, -0.32) scores of 2-year-old children, and increased risk of developmental delay of adaptive behavior (OR=2.07, 95%CI:1.13-3.82). Conclusion: PYRs exposure during the first trimester of pregnancy may affect neurodevelopment of 2-year-old children, and the first trimester may be the critical window.

Association between baseline ldl-c and prognosis among patients with coronary artery disease and advanced kidney disease

Background

Lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is significantly associated with improved prognosis in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). However, LDL-C reduction does not decrease all-cause mortality among CAD patients when renal function impairs. There are currently no studies examining the association of low baseline LDL-C concentration (&lt;1.8 mmol/L) with mortality among patients with CAD and advanced kidney disease (AKD). We aimed to evaluate prognostic value of low baseline LDL-C level for all-cause death in these patients.

Methods

In this observational study, 803 CAD patients complicated with AKD (eGFR &lt;30 mL/min/1.73 m 2) were enrolled between January 2008 to December 2018. Patients were divided into two groups (LDL-C &lt;1.8 mmol/L, n=138; LDL-C ≥1.8 mmol/L, n=665). We used Kaplan-Meier methods and Cox regression analyses to assess the association between baseline low LDL-C levels and long-term all-cause mortality.

Results

Among 803 participants (mean age 67.4 years; 68.5% male), there were 315 incidents of all-cause death during a median follow-up of 2.7 years. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that low LDL-C levels were associated with worse prognosis. After adjusting for full 24 confounders (e.g., age, diabetes, heart failure, and dialysis, etc.), multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that lower LDL-C level (&lt;1.8mmol/L) was significantly associated with higher risk of all-cause death (adjusted HR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.01–1.89).

Conclusions

Our data demonstrated that among patients with CAD and AKD, a lower baseline LDLC level (&lt;1.8mmol/L) did not present a higher survival rate but was related to a worse prognosis, suggesting a cautiousness of too low LDL-C levels among patients with CAD and AKD.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 81670339 and Grant No. 81970311), Cardiovascular Research Foundation Project of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association (SCRFCMDA201216) and Beijing Lisheng Cardiovascular Health Foundation (LHJJ20141751).

Malnutrition affects cholesterol paradox in coronary artery disease: a 41,229 Chinese cohort study

Background

Several studies found that baseline low LDL-C concentration was associated with poor prognosis in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), which was called “cholesterol paradox”. Low LDL-C concentration may reflect underlying malnutrition, which was strongly associated with increased mortality. We objected to investigate the cholesterol paradox in patients with CAD and the effects of malnutrition.

Method

A total of 41,229 CAD patients admitted to Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital in China were included in this study from January 2007 to December 2018, and divided into two groups (LDL-C &lt;1.8 mmol/L, n=4,863; LDL-C ≥1.8 mmol/L, n=36,366). We used Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression analyses to assess the association between LDL-C levels and long-term all-cause mortality and the effect of malnutrition.

Result

In this real-world cohort (mean age 62.94 years; 74.94% male), there were 5257 incidents of all-cause death during a median follow-up of 5.20 years [Inter-quartile range (IQR): 3.05–7.78 years]. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that low LDL-C levels were associated with worse prognosis. After adjusting for baseline confounders (e.g., age, sex and comorbidities, etc.), multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that low LDL-C level (&lt;1.8mmol/L) was not significantly associated with all-cause mortality (adjusted HR, 1.04; 95% CI, 0.96–1.24). After adjustment of nutritional status, risk of all-cause mortality of patients with low LDL-C level decreased (adjusted HR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.83–0.98). In the final multivariate Cox model, low LDL-C level was related to better prognosis (adjusted HR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.84–0.99).

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that the cholesterol paradox persisted in CAD patients, but disappeared after accounting for the effects of malnutrition.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 81670339 and Grant No. 81970311), Cardiovascular Research Foundation Project of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association (SCRFCMDA201216)

Association between recovered acute kidney injury within 48hours and mortality in patients following coronary angiography: a cohort study

Background

The association of recovered acute kidney injury (AKI) with mortality was controversial. Our study aims to investigate the impact of recovered AKI on mortality in patients following coronary angiography (CAG).

Methods

Our study retrospectively enrolled 3,970 patients with pre-operative serum p creatinine (Scr) and twice measurements within 48hours after procedure. Recovered AKI defined as the diagnosis of AKI (Scr &gt;0.3 mg/dL or &gt;50% from the baseline level) on day 1 when Scr failed to meet the criteria for AKI on the day 2. Maintained AKI was defined as AKI not meeting the definition for recovered AKI. The primary outcome was 1-year all-cause mortality. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association between recovered AKI and 1-year mortality.

Results

Among 3,970 participants, 861 (21.7%) occurred AKI, of whom 128 (14.9%) was recovered AKI and 733 (85.1%) was maintained AKI. 312 (7.9%) patients died within 1-year after admission. After multivariable analysis, recovered AKI was not associated with higher 1-year mortality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.37; CI, 0.68–2.51) compared without AKI. Among AKI patients, Recovered AKI was associated with a 52% lower 1-year mortality compared with maintained AKI. Additionally, maintained AKI was significantly associated with higher 1-year mortality (aOR, 2.67; CI, 2.05–3.47).

Conclusions

Our data suggested that recovered AKI within 48h was a common subtype of AKI following CAG, without increasing mortality. More attention need to be paid to the patients suffering from maintained AKI following CAG.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. Association of AKI and mortalitySubgroups analysis

[The gender disparity and relevant factors of frailty in the elderly of communities in Beijing based on Fairlie decomposition analysis]

Objective: To analyze the gender disparity and relevant factors of frailty in the elderly of communities in Beijing. Methods: From November 2015 to January 2016, 1 557 participants aged 60 and older in four communities of Dongcheng district in Beijing were recruited by cluster sampling. The information of demographic characteristics, social support, economic status, health status, prevalence situation, cognitive function, emotion and comprehensive assessment of the elderly were collected by a self-made questionnaire. The frailty index (FI) model was used to evaluate the frailty of the elderly. Multivariate nonconditional logistic regression model and Fairlie decomposition method were applied to analyze the relevant factors and their contribution rate to the difference between males and females. Results: The age of subjects was (74.5±8.5) years old, ranging from 60-102 years old, among which 641 were males, accounting for 41.2%. The M (Q₁, Q₃) of FI was 0.09 (0.06, 0.14), among which the value in males was 0.08 (0.05, 0.13), lower than females [0.10 (0.06, 0.15)] (P<0.001).The frail proportion in female was 14.9% (137/916), higher than that of male [8.4% (54/641)] (P<0.001). Multivariate nonconditional logistic regression model analysis demonstrated that common relevant factors associated with frailty in older women and men include: age ≥80 years old, marital status as not married (unmarried, separated, divorced, or widowed), living alone increased the risk of frailty; participating in group activities ≥3 times/week and exercising regularly decreased the risk of frailty (all P<0.05). Fairlie decomposition method showed that the contribution rate of life style, family support, marital status and social support were 32.21%, 15.26%, 8.23% and 4.34%, respectively (all P<0.05). Conclusions: The frailty degree and frailty proportion of elderly women in communities in Beijing were higher than those of men of the same age. The frailty gender difference was related to lifestyle, family support, marital status and social support.

[Relationship between frailty status and risk of death in the elderly based on frailty index analysis]

Objective: To analyze the relationship between frailty status and the risk of death in the elderly based on the frailty index (FI). Methods: Data from a prospective cohort study conducted between 2005 and 2015 in elderly people of an urban community in Beijing were analyzed. The variables related to health and frailty status based on the 2005 baseline survey and death as outcome variables collected in 2015 were used. A FI model was used to evaluate the correlation between FI and mortality in the elderly people in different age groups was analyzed. Cox regression was applied to evaluate the influence of FI on the risk of death, and Kaplan-Meier curves was used to show the survival rate of different frailty levels in the elderly adults. Results: Of the 1 301 elderly people included in the analysis, 403 died during 2005-2015, with the 10-year mortality rate of 31.0%(403/1 301). The mortality rate of the elderly increased with the increase of FI, but, with the increase of FI value, the rate of mortality increased slowly. The limit value of FI causing death was around 0.70, indicating any new health problem might cause death at this value. Cox regression analysis showed that higher FI was associated with higher risk for death (HR=1.143, 95%CI: 1.034-1.248, P=0.000), and FI was more significantly associated with death than age (HR=1.143 vs. HR=1.048, t=5.827, P=0.000). With the increase of age, the effect of frailty on the risk of death decreased (HR=1.179 to HR=1.120). Kaplan-Meier curves showed that the survival rate of the elderly in all age groups decreased with the increase of frailty (Log-rank=317.812, 354.203, 247.258, all P=0.000). The survival time between different frailty levels in the elderly were significantly different, except for the elderly adults aged ≥80 years with severe frailty level (0.4≤FI<0.5, FI≥0.5, P=0.368). Conclusions: Compared with other evaluation tools of frailty, FI model can better reflect the frailty status of the elderly in communities in Beijing and has a high sensitivity in predicting adverse outcomes such as mortality. In the intervention of frailty in the elderly, focusing on relatively young elderly might be more effective in reducing the adverse outcomes caused by frailty.

[Analysis of influencing factors of shunt dysfunction after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in liver cirrhosis accompanied with portal vein thrombosis]

Objective: To investigate the efficacy of shunt after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) in liver cirrhosis accompanied with portal vein thrombosis (PVT). Methods: Forty-four cases with liver cirrhosis accompanied with PVT who underwent TIPS treatment from January 2015 to May 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical baseline data of the patients were collected. Portal vein pressure gradient (PVPG) before and after the surgery was recorded. Shunt patency was observed at 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months after the surgery. The influencing factors were determined by univariate and multivariate analysis. Results: Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt was successfully established in all 44 cases. The postoperative PVPG was lower than preoperative (P < 0.01). The shunt patency rate after TIPS in PVT was 18.2% (n = 8). The cumulative shunt patency rates at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after surgery were 95.5%, 90.7%, 90.7%, 86.8% and 74.4%, respectively. Univariate analysis showed that diabetes history, platelet level and prothrombin time-international normalized ratio were associated with postoperative shunt dysfunction. Multivariate analysis showed that diabetes history (P = 0.007, OR = 28.606) was an independent risk factor for postoperative shunt dysfunction. Conclusion: TIPS is a safe and feasible procedure, which can effectively reduce the portal pressure in liver cirrhosis accompanied with PVT. Diabetic patients have a higher risk of postoperative shunt dysfunction. Therefore, clinical intervention should be strengthened for high-risk patients.

Expression and characterization of anticoagulant activity of salivary protein alALP from Asian tiger mosquito Aedes albopictus

Several bioactive molecules isolated from the saliva of blood-sucking arthropods, such as mosquitoes, have been shown to exhibit potential anticoagulant function. We have previously identified a 30kDa allergen named Aegyptin-like protein (alALP), which is highly homologous to Aegyptin, from the salivary glands of female Aedes albopictus (Asian tiger mosquito). In this study, we identified the conserved functional domain of alALP by using bioinformatic tools, and expressed the His-tagged alALP recombinant protein in sf9 insect cells by generation and transfection of a baculoviral expression plasmid carrying the fulllength cDNA of alALP. We purified this recombinant protein and examined its function on the inhibition of blood coagulation. The results showed that the purified His-alALP prolonged the Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT), Prothrombin Time (PT) and Thrombin Time (TT) in vitro as well as the Bleeding Time (BT) in vivo, which suggest that alALP could be a novel anticoagulant.

[Application of closed negative pressure irrigation and suction device in the treatment of high perianal abscess]

Objective: To explore the efficacy of closed negative pressure irrigation and suction device (Patent number: Z200780013509.8) in the treatment of high perianal abscess. Methods: From January 2015 to December 2016, ≥18-year-old patients with primary high perianal abscess who were treated at our department were prospectively enrolled. Exclusion criteria: (1) recurrent perianal abscess; (2) complicated with anal fistula formation; (3) preoperative, intraoperative or postoperative physical therapy, and curettage treatment, negative pressure irrigation; (4) Crohn's disease-related perianal abscess; (5) with immunosuppressive status, such as transplant recipients; (6) co-existence of malignant tumors, such as leukemia; (7) with diabetes; (8) those who could not receive long-term follow-up and were not suitable to participate in this study. According to the random number table method, the patients were randomly divided into negative pressure irrigation and suction group and routine drainage group. All patients were clearly diagnosed and the location and size of the perianal abscess were marked before surgery. These two groups were treated as follows: (1) Negative pressure irrigation and suction group: the skin was incised at a diameter of 1-2 cm at the site where the abscess fluctuated most obviously. After the abscess was removed, a closed negative pressure irrigation and suction device was installed and the pressure of -200 to -100 mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa) was maintained to keep the abscess cavity collapsed. Generally, the irrigation was stopped 5 days later or when the drainage was clear. The closed vacuum suction was maintained for 2 additional days, before the wound was sutured. (2) Conventional drainage group: conventional incision and drainage was carried out. The skin was cut at a diameter of 8 to 10 cm at the site of abscess with most obvious fluctuation. After the abscess was removed, normal saline gauze was used for dressing. Dressing was changed regularly until the wound healed. The efficacy, operative time, intraoperative bleeding, incision length, frequency of dressing change, pain index (visual analogue score, VAS score), postoperative healing time, complications, recurrence rate of perianal abscess, anal fistula formation rate were observed. The t test and χ² test were used for comparison between the 2 groups. Results: There were both 40 patients in the negative pressure irrigation and suction group and the conventional drainage group. There were 28 males and 12 females in negative pressure irrigation and suction group with a mean age of (38.3±12.0) years and mean disease course of (6.6±2.1) days. The abscess in pelvic-rectal space accounted for 50.0% (20/40) and the mean diameter of abscess was (8.0±3.7) cm. There were 26 males and 14 females in the conventional drainage group with a mean age of (37.1±11.8) years and mean disease course of (6.4±2.5) days. The abscess in pelvic-rectal space accounted for 55.0% (22/40) and the diameter of abscess was (8.2±3.5) cm. The differences in baseline data between two groups were not statistically significant (all P>0.05). Both groups successfully completed the operation. There was no significant difference in operative time between two groups (P>0.05). As compared to conventional drainage group, intraoperative blood loss in negative pressure irrigation and suction group was less [(12.1±5.5) ml vs. (18.3±4.4) ml, t=5.606, P<0.001], incision length was shorter [(2.3±0.8) cm vs. (7.6±1.7) cm, t=17.741, P<0.001], postoperative VAS pain scores at 1-, 3-, 7-, and 14-day after operation were lower [3.7±1.4 vs. 7.6±1.8, t=10.816, P<0.001; 3.0±1.3 vs. 6.8±1.6, t=11.657, P<0.001; 2.7±0.9 vs. 5.1±1.1, t=10.679, P<0.001; 1.2±0.3 vs. 1.6±0.4, t=5.060, P=0.019], the dressing change within 7 days after operation was less (3.5±1.2 vs. 12.6±2.7, t=19.478, P<0.001), postoperative healing time was shorter [(10.4±3.0) d vs. (13.5±3.8) d, t=4.049, P<0.001] and postoperative complication rate was lower [17.5% (7/40) vs. 2.5% (1/40), χ²=5.000, P=0.025]. During follow-up of 12 to 36 (24±5) months, the recurrence rate of perianal abscess within 1 year after operation and anal fistula formation rate in negative pressure irrigation and suction group were lower than those in conventional drainage group [5.0% (2/40) vs. 20.0% (8/40), χ²=4.114, P=0.042 and 2.5% (1/40) vs. 17.5% (7/40), χ²=5.000, P=0.025, respectirely]. The one-time cure rate of negative pressure irrigation and suction group and conventional drainage group was 92.5% (37/40) and 62.5%(25/40), respectirely (χ²=10.323, P=0.001). Conclusions: The application of the negative pressure irrigation and suction device in the treatment of high perianal abscess can improve the efficiency of one-time cure, reduce postoperative pain, accelerate healing time, decrease the morbidity of postoperative complication and the rates of abscess recurrence and anal fistula formation, indicating an improvement of the treatment.

[Investigation of neck and shoulder pain among workers in an automobile plant]

Objective: To investigate the prevalence and risk factors of neck and shoulder pain (NSP) among automobile manufacturing workers and to provide a theoretical basis for prevention of NSP. Methods: From November 5 to November 19, 2017, a total 446 works who had worked for more than one year were recruited from an automobile plant by cluster sampling method. Chi square test and unconditional logistic regression were used to exam the relation between influencing factors and NSP. Results: The annual prevalence rate of NSP was 34.8%. Multifactor regression analysis showed that age、work fatigue、department staff shortages、lifting heavy objects in awkward positions、neck flexion foreword and prolong sitting position work were the risk factors of NSP (OR=2.18, 95%CI:1.49~3.18; OR=4.52, 95%CI:1.27~16.00; OR=1.66, 95%CI:1.04~26.68; OR=2.10, 95%CI:1.16~3.81; OR=2.25, 95%CI:1.39~3.66; OR=2.42, 95%CI:1.06~5.56) and work break was the benefit factors of NSP (OR=0.58, 95%CI:0.36~0.94) . Conclusion: The annual prevalence rate of NSP among automobile manufacturing workers was high. Lifing heavy objects、awkward working positions and unreasonable work arrangement were the major risk factors of NSP, and work break can effectively reduce the risk of NSP. Effective ergonomic intervention should be carried out to prevent the occurrence of NSP.

[Predictive factors of mortality in extremely preterm infants]

Objective: To investigate the predictive factors of mortality in extremely preterm infants. Methods: The retrospective case-control study was accomplished in the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University. A total of 268 extremely preterm infants seen from January 1, 1999 to December 31, 2015 were divided into survival group (192 cases) and death group (76 cases). The potential predictive factors of mortality were identified by univariate analysis, and then analyzed by multivariate unconditional Logistic regression analysis. The mortality and predictive factors were also compared between two time periods, which were January 1, 1999 to December 31, 2007 (65 cases) and January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2015 (203 cases). Results: The median gestational age (GA) of extremely preterm infants was 27 weeks (23⁺³-27⁺⁶ weeks). The mortality was higher in infants with GA of 25-<26 weeks (OR=2.659, 95% CI: 1.211-5.840) and<25 weeks (OR=10.029, 95% CI: 3.266-30.792) compared to that in infants with GA> 26 weeks. From January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2015, the number of extremely preterm infants was increased significantly compared to the previous 9 years, while the mortality decreased significantly (OR=0.490, 95% CI: 0.272-0.884). Multivariate unconditional Logistic regression analysis showed that GA below 25 weeks (OR=6.033, 95% CI: 1.393-26.133), lower birth weight (OR=0.997, 95% CI: 0.995-1.000), stage Ⅲ necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) (OR=15.907, 95% CI: 3.613-70.033), grade Ⅰ and Ⅱ intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) (OR=0.260, 95% CI: 0.117-0.575) and dependence on invasive mechanical ventilation (OR=3.630, 95% CI: 1.111-11.867) were predictive factors of mortality in extremely preterm infants. Conclusions: GA below 25 weeks, lower birth weight, stage Ⅲ NEC and dependence on invasive mechanical ventilation are risk factors of mortality in extremely preterm infants. But grade ⅠandⅡ IVH is protective factor.

[Differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells into neural stem cells induced by brain-derived neurotrophic factor via Wnt/β-catenin and extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinases signal pathway]

Objective: To investigate the mechanism of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) promoting induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to differentiate into neural stem cells (NSCs) via Wnt/β-catenin and extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinases (ERK/MAPK) signal pathways. Methods: iPSCs were cultured and identified. The iPSCs were induced to differentiate into NSCs by BDNF and retinoic acid (RA). Nestin was detected by immunofluorescence and flow cytometry after iPSCs differentiated. The technique of small interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to silence the gene expression of β-catenin and ERK, and iPSCs were divided into control group, BDNF group (adding 10 μg/L BDNF), siRNA-ERK/BDNF group (transfected with siRNA-ERK and adding 10 μg/L BDNF) and siRNA-β-catenin/BDNF group (transfected with siRNA-β-catenin and adding 10 μg/L BDNF). Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression of key elements of Wnt/β-catenin and ERK/MAPK signaling pathways, included β-catenin, ERK1/2, c-fos, c-jun, and c-myc. The least significant difference test was used when data were compared between groups. Results: The immunofluorescence showed that iPSCs expressed octamer-binding transcription factor-4 (Oct4), SRY-related HMG box protein-2 (Sox2) and Nanog genes. The flow cytometry showed that Nestin-positive cells were 78.7% for BDNF and 43.5% for RA, and it was only 7.8% for routine medium. Compared with those in the control group, the mRNA expression of β-catenin, ERK1/2, c-fos, c-jun, and c-myc in the BDNF group were upregulated significantly (t=2.80, 2.318, 2.255, 1.799, 1.582, 1.663, all P<0.05), and the same results were acquired with the protein expression (t=2.805, 2.318, 2.255, 1.799, 1.582, 1.663, all P<0.050). Compared with those in BDNF group, the mRNA and protein expression of ERK1/2 in siRNA-ERK/BDNF group down-regulated obviously (t=1.917, 2.042, 1.673, 1.540, all P<0.05), and the mRNA and protein expression of c-fos and c-jun were down-regulated (t=1.022, 0.907, 0.848, 0.801, all P<0.05). However, the mRNA and protein expression of β-catenin and c-myc were not suppressed by siRNA-ERK (t=0.216, 0.185, 0.097, 0.112, all P>0.05). In siRNA-β-catenin/BDNF group, the mRNA and protein expression of β-catenin and c-myc was obviously down-regulated when compared with those in BDNF group (t=3.104, 2.774, 2.235, 1.911, all P<0.05), and expression of ERK1/2, c-fos and c-jun were down-regulated too (t=0.776-1.192, all P<0.05). Conclusion: BDNF promotes the differentiation of iPSCs by activating Wnt/β-catenin and ERK/MAPK signal pathway, there should be cross-talk between the two signal pathways, and c-fos and c-jun may be common nuclear transcription factors.

[Alarming system in real time and high quality display using volumerendering for otologic surgical navigation: a preclinical study]

Objective:The aim of this study is to design and develop a novel navigation framework that alarms the surgeon with sound during drilling and dynamically renders the high quality medical image data. Method:The accuracy of the proposed system were measured with a skull model using paired point registration and the target registration error (TRE) was computed. We segmented the accurate structure of target and compute the minimum distance between the drill tip and the target. Once the drill tip approached the target structures, the system would alarm the surgeon. We proposed a novelty method that used a mask to render the medical image data in real time. Result:The maximum distance error of 90 target points was 1.016 mm, the minimum was 0.427 mm, and the average distance error was (0.74±0.07) mm. The design and development of the alarming system and dynamically rendering the medical image data of navigation system was accomplished. Conclusion:The results show that the accuracy of the navigation system can meet the clinical needs. It also demonstrates the feasibility of the alarm system and dynamic display system and its application prospects.

Characterization and development of 56 EST-SSR markers derived from the transcriptome of Odontobutis potamophila

Expressed sequence tags (ETSs) are the sources of microsatellite development. In this study, we isolated and characterized microsatellite markers for Odontobutis potamophila by using Illumina RNA-sequencing. We sequenced a large number of ESTs and screened 200 potential microsatellites. Consequently, a total of 56 novel polymorphic microsatellite repeat markers were identified in thirty-two individuals from a wild population area (Jiande, Zhejiang Province, China). The number of alleles per locus varied from two to eight, the observed heterozygosity (H_O) ranged from 0.03571 to 0.9375, and the expected heterozygosity (H_E) ranged from 0.14326 to 0.81549. The average number of alleles, H_O, and H_E were 5.0, 0.4467, and 0.5518, respectively. By the calculation, the range of polymorphism information content (PIC) was 0.1177-0.8492. Most of the loci showed moderate or high polymorphism. These newly developed EST-simple sequence repeat (EST-SSR) markers would serve as an efficient tool for analyzing population connectivity and provide sufficient information for genetic diversity research, parentage, and molecular breeding of O. potamophila and other fishes with similar genetic relationship.

Expression and clinical implications of enhancer of Zeste homolog 2 and p53 protein in squamous cell carcinoma and precancerous lesions in the cervix

We investigated the expression and clinical implications of enhancer of Zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) and p53 protein in cervical squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and precancerous lesions. EZH2 and p53 expressions in SCC (168), cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN)-I (19), CIN-II (35), and normal tissues (30) were detected by streptavidin-peroxidase-conjugation. The correlation between co-expression of EZH2 and p53 protein and the clinic pathological features and prognosis of SCC were discussed. The positive expression rates of EZH2 and p53 were 6.7, 37.0, and 75.6%, and 3.3, 21.1, and 39.3% in normal cervical tissues, CIN, and SCC, respectively, which were significantly different (P < 0.05). The positive expression rate of EZH2 and p53 protein in SCC patients with and without lymph node metastasis was 82.9 and 70.4% (EZH2) and 45.7 and 34.7% (p53), respectively, which was also a significant difference (P < 0.05). The progression-free survival (PFS) rates in followed-up patients (N = 143) who were EZH2- and p53-negative, EZH2- or p53-positive, and EZH2- and p53-positive were 71.3 ± 1.9, 66.1 ± 2.0, and 51.3 ± 3.8 months, respectively, which was a significant difference (P < 0.001); the overall survival among these groups was 72.9 ± 1.1, 68.6 ± 1.8, and 57.4 ± 3.4 months, respectively (P < 0.001). Multivariate analyses revealed that EZH2 expression, lymph node metastasis, and tumor staging were independent prognostic factors of SCC. EZH2 and p53, which affect lymph node metastasis and prognosis of SCC, may play a key role in the occurrence and development of SCC.

A SCAR marker for the analysis of chloroplast DNA from different cultivars of Cornus officinalis

The aims of this study were to establish a random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) fingerprint database of chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) from different cultivars of Cornus officinalis and to convert RAPD markers to sequence characterized amplified regions (SCAR) markers. A method of extraction was established that was suitable for obtaining cpDNA from samples rapidly dried in silicone; an RAPD fingerprint database was built; and the genetic distance between samples was used as statistical clustering variables for calculating DICE genetic similarity coefficients and for building a kinship tree chart. RAPD markers were converted to SCAR markers to design specific primers, and samples from C. officinalis cultivars, plants of the same family, and its adulterants, were used for amplification and identification. Fifteen amplified primers with stable polymorphisms were screened for amplification of 130 copies of materials. In total, 57 sites were achieved, 40 of which were polymorphic, and the polymorphic rate was up to 70.18%. A genetic tree was built based on seven cultivars. SCAR markers of C. officinalis cpDNA were successfully converted into RAPD markers. cpDNA samples from hawthorn, C. officinalis, Cornus wood, and grape were used for SCAR amplification, and their bands were distinctly different. In conclusion, SCAR markers and cpDNA may be used for research on C. officinalis and its adulterants, and the results may provide a basis for identifying germplasm and screening fine varieties at a molecular level.

DNMT3A -448A>G polymorphism and cancer risk: a meta-analysis

Cancer is a major public health problem worldwide that involves complex processes and factors. For instance, methylation is important in tumorigenesis. DNA (cytosine-5)-methyltransferase 3A (DNMT3A) is the main de novo methyltransferase implicated in this process. In DNMT3A, the -448A>G polymorphism is associated with cancer; however, the results of various studies have been conflicting. To clarify the role of DNMT3A polymorphisms in cancer, we conducted a meta-analysis of 2014 cases and 3089 control subjects. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were estimated to evaluate the association between the DNMT3A -448A>G polymorphism and cancer risk. The results showed that DNMT3A may be a protective factor against all cancer types and colorectal cancer groups. Further studies should be conducted including different ethnicities and large population sizes to generate a comprehensive conclusion.

Effect of miR-146a polymorphism on biochemical recurrence risk after radical prostatectomy in southern Chinese population

Evidence has shown that miR-146a is involved in carcinogenesis and a common G/C variant (rs2910164) in the pre-miR-146a gene has been found to be associated with various cancers. We investigated the potential prognostic role of miR-146a polymorphism in prostate cancer after radical prostatectomy. Seventy-two southern Chinese with prostate cancer undergoing radical prostatectomy were included in this study. miR-146a polymorphism was analyzed by PCR-RFLP. Its prognostic role in biochemical recurrence was assessed using Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression model. We did not find a significant association between miR-146a polymorphism and prostrate-specific antigen failure in the Chinese population [HR (95%CI): 0.83 (0.30-2.32) for CC vs GG/GC]. However, high Gleason score (over 8) was associated with increased biochemical recurrence and poorer PSA-free survival. This study was limited by the length of follow-up. Future studies with longer follow-up would allow evaluation of more direct metrics, such as disease-specific survival, metastasis-free survival, and overall survival.

A common genetic variant of 5p15.33 is associated with risk for prostate cancer in the Chinese population

Recent evidence has suggested that single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) located at 5p15.33 contribute to susceptibilities for several cancer types, including prostate cancer. To determine whether SNP rs402710 in this region plays a role in prostate cancer, we analyzed these associations in a Chinese population; 251 prostate cancer patients and 273 control subjects were included in this case-control study. Genotypes were determined by PCR-RFLP. We found that subjects carrying the CC homozygote had a decreased risk for prostrate cancer compared to those carrying TT/TC genotypes (odds ratio (OR) = 0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.48-0.98, P = 0.038). Compared with the TT homozygote, subjects carrying the CC homozygote also had a decreased risk for prostate cancer (OR = 0.71, 95%CI = 0.51-0.99, P = 0.043). We conclude that rs402710 polymorphisms in the 5p15.33 region are associated with prostate cancer risk in the Chinese population. Further investigations with large cohorts and done worldwide are warranted to determine whether our findings are detected in other populations.

Comparison of catalytical activity and stereoselectivity between the recombinant human cytochrome P450 2D6.1 and 2D6.10

Polymorphisms of the cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) gene play a major role in pharmacokinetic variability in human, while CYP2D6*10 is an important subtype in Asian people. In this study, the co-expression enzyme of human recombinant CYPOR, CYPb5 and CYP2D6.1 or CYP2D6.10 with the Bac-to-Bac system in baculovirus-infected insect cells was used to study the catalytical activity to imipramine metabolism and stereoselective metabolism of propranolol. The metabolites of imipramine were identified of hydroxyl imipramine and desipramine by LC-MS/MS. There are some differences between CYP2D6.1 and CYP2D6.10 activity. The kinetics parameters K(m), V(max), and CL(int) are 11.77 +/- 0.91 micromol/L, 0.4235 +/- 0.05 nmol/nmol CYP2D6.1/min and 3.60 x 10(-5) ml/min/nmol CYP2D6.1 (n = 3) for CYP2D6.1, respectively, and 9.05 +/- 0.87 micromol/L, 0.42 +/- 0.03 nmol/nmol CYP2D6.10/min, and 4.60 x 10(-5) ml/min/nmol CYP2D6.10 (n = 3) for CYP2D6.10. For propranolol, two metabolites were identified to be hydroxyl and N-desisopropylation propranolol by LC-MS/MS. When the substrate concentration was 0.20 micromol/L, CYP2D6.1 and CYP2D6.10 exhibited significant stereoseletivity. Furthermore, enantioselective formation has been detected. Both of CYP2D6.1 and CYP2D6.10 produced more hydroxyl propranolol from the R-(+)-isomer than from the S-(-)-isomer while there was no obvious difference for N-desisopropylation propranolol production between R-(+)- and S-(-)- isomer. In summary, there is a somewhat different catalytical activity and stereoselectivity between the human recombinant CYP2D6.1 and CYP2D6.10. The data we got will be helpful in preclinical research and clinical use of CYP2D6 substrates.

Quantitative regioselectivity of glucuronidation of quercetin by recombinant UDP-glucuronosyltransferases 1A9 and 1A3 using enzymatic kinetic parameters

Quercetin has been suggested to exert its pharmacological effects, at least in part, via its metabolites, such as glucuronides. Quantitative regioselectivity analyses are important to understand the contributions of UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs) to the pharmacological activity of quercetin. The present work obtained active UGT1A9 and UGT1A3 enzymes with a Bac-to-Bac expression system, and quercetin was metabolized by each of them to four monoglucuronides (7-, 3-, 4'- and 3'-glucuronide). Enzymatic kinetic parameters of each glucuronide were calculated to elucidate quantitatively UGT1A9's and UGT1A3's regioselectivities for quercetin. UGT1A3's highest glucuronidation efficiency was observed for the 3'-glucuronide, then the 3-, 4'- and 7-glucuronide. The catalytic efficiency order for UGT1A9 was 3->7->3'->4'-glucuronide.

Phenotype analysis of cytochrome P450 2C19 in Chinese subjects with mephenytoin S/R enantiomeric ratio in urine measured by chiral GC

A chiral gas chromatographic method with FID was developed for the determination of S- and R-mephenytoin in human urine. The assay is linear from 25 to 800 ng/mL for each enantiomer and the limit of detection and limit of quantitation were 12 and 25ng/mL for each enantiomer, respectively. The method affords average recoveries of 74.41 +/- 3.93% and 73.78 +/- 3.02% for S- and R-mephenytoin, respectively. The method allows the phenotype study of CYP2C19 in Chinese subjects. The phenotype pattern of 90 Chinese volunteers was determined, in which 26 volunteers received phenotyping and genotyping tests. The results of phenotype analysis showed that the interindividual variation was marked. The mephenytoin S/R enantiomeric ratios in urine of 11 volunteers were > or = 0.95 and identified as poor metabolizers. The frequency of poor metabolizers was 12.2% in the Chinese subjects tested. A good relationship between phenotype and genotype analysis of CYP2C19 was observed.

Correlation between cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6 (CYP2D6) genotype and phenotype

AIM

To study the correlation between CYP2D6 genotype and its phenotype.

METHODS

CYP2D6 genotyping was made by detecting CYP2D6*3, *4, *6, and *7 alleles with an allele-specific polymerase chain reaction procedure.

RESULTS

The CYP2D6 genotypes were well correlated with its phenotypes in all 125 extensive metabolizers and in 43 poor metabolizers. Extensive metabolizers had at least one wildtype CYP2D6 gene and the genotypes were *1/*1, *1/*3, and *1/*4. Poor metabolizers were found to be homozygous mutants of CYP2D6 gene and the genotypes were *3/*4, *4/*4, *3/*6, *4/*7, *4/*6, and *6/*6.

CONCLUSION

Genotype could be used to screen variations of CYP2D6 expression.

[Distinguishing CYP2D6 homozygous and heterozygous extensive metabolizers by dextromethorphan phenotyping]

A more sensitive procedure was developed to phenotype cytochrome P450 2D6 metabolism by a less toxic probe drug--dextromethorphan. The sensitivity of the determination of dextromethorphan in urine samples was up to 1 ng.ml-1. This method was employed to phenotype three groups of subjects. The results showed that there was a difference between extensive metabolizers which were genotyped as homozygotes and heterozygotes. Although the difference was not as big as the difference with poor metabolizers which were genotyped as homozygous mutants. It suggests that "gene copy" is a true factor in the expression of CYP2D6 genes.

Physiological basis for long life span

A collection of clinical data is reported on nonagenarians in comparison to an 'average' population of younger age. The results of these clinical data indicated that a vital physiological basis for long life span probably existed. The basis include a better micro-blood-flow state, a better cardiac, immune (nature killer cell activity), adrenocortical, hepatic and renal function, and a higher level of high density lipoprotein cholesterol. It is suggested that the method, including Chinese traditional medicine, to improve the micro-blood-flow, nature killer cell activity, high density lipoprotein cholesterol and vital organ function may be beneficial for life preservation and aging retarding.

[Mutagenic effects of bimolane]

AIM

To study the genotoxicity of bimolane.

METHODS

Bimolane 5, 10, and 15 mg . kg-1 was injected i.p. in mice to investigate its effects on chromosome/chromatid aberrations of bone marrow cells. Mutagenic effects on TA97, TA98, TA100, TA102 were studied in Ames test.

RESULTS

Bimolane 5, 10, and 15 mg . kg-1 induced of chromosome/chromatid aberrations, and the frequency of aberration cells (ACF) induced by bimolane increased markedly (P < 0.01); Bimolane without S9 showed mutagenic to TA98 and TA102 at the concentrations of 100 and 150 micrograms/plate in Ames test.

CONCLUSION

Bimolane is a kind of genotoxic compound.

[Epidemiological study of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in plasmapheresis and blood donors]

We actively adopted method to control hepatitis C (HC) epidemic in blood sampling. ELISA was used to detect anti-HCV antibody in different groups of 2348 blood donors. The positive rates of anti-HCV for plasmaphersis and whole blood donors were 0.58% (2/343) and 1.34% (27/2005) respectively, with no statistical significance (P > 0.05). The positive rates of anti-HCV for plasmapheresis donors in 1-2 years and over 9 years were 0.99% (7/701) and 0.74% (2/270) respectively. There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) either. The positive rates of anti-HCV for plasmapheresis donors in 1992 and in 1994 were 1.64% (7/426), and 0.58% (2/343). The results showed that HCV infection rate did not increase in plasmapheresis donors, nor did it increase parallel with the increasing gears of blood donnation.

[Role of afferent renal nerves in 2K2C Goldblatt hypertension]

In order to study the role of afferent renal nerves in 2K2C Goldblatt hypertension, the renal afferent nerves were selectively lesioned by bilateral T9-L2 spinal dorsal rhizotomy before clipping (internal diameter, 0.3 mm) of birenal arteries. Systolic blood pressure of the rat was measured by tail-cuff method. Concentrations of catecholamines, Ang II, and aldosterone were determined respectively by HPLC-EC and RIA, and vascular structural changes were measured by blood vessel micro-image analysis system coupled with a computer. The results showed that the concentrations of NE and E in medulla oblongata, adrenal gland and plasma, and of plasma Ang II and aldosterone as well as body weight of the rat were all significantly increased. The heart coefficient (heart wt/body wt), the media thickness, and the media thickness/lumen diameter in superior mesenteric arteries were also increased in 2K2C hypertensive rats (clipping, 6 wk) as compared with those in control rats. Bilateral rhizotomy delayed development of 2K2C hypertension and prevented above-mentioned vascular structural changes, the NE and E concentrations of medulla oblongata, adrenal gland and plasma were all decreased, hypothalamic NE and E were increased, and plasma Ang II level was not significantly changed. These results suggest that afferent renal nerves may play a partial role in the development of hypertension in 2K2C rats by activating sympathetic nervous system as a result of affecting metabolic activities of brain catecholaminergic neurons, and that high-plasma Ang II and aldosterone as well as heart hypertrophy and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells may also participate in the pathogenesis of hypertension in 2K2C rats.

Suppressing effects of human fetal cell extract on micronuclei induced by cyclophosphamide in mice

The genotoxicity of human fetal cell extract (HFCE) and its effect on the frequency of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (PCE-MNF) in mice induced by cyclophosphamide (CP) were studied. Statistically significant differences were not found between the control group and each group treated with HFCE (0.3, 3, 30 mg/kg bw). CP (200 mg/kg bw) induced a marked increase in MNF (P < 0.01). Administered together with CP, HFCE suppressed the increase of MNF induced by CP. The reduction effect is dependent on the dose of HFCE. At doses of 3 and 30 mg/kg bw HFCE, MNF decreased markedly (P < 0.05 and < 0.01, respectively). It showed that HFCE did not induce micronucleus formation, while it could suppress the micronucleus formation induced by CP in mice. The results suggested that HFCE might be antimutagenic and have potential value in clinical application.

[Amplification of C-erB-2 oncogene in colon carcinomas]

Differential PCR has been used to detect the variance of c-erbB-2 gene copies in 23 colon carcinoma tissues. It was found that amplification of c-erbB-2 gene existed in 7 out of 23 (30%) cases. All of the three high-middle differentiated colon carcinomas had amplification of c-erbB-2 gene in our specimens. It was higher than that of the middle differentiated colon carcinomas (P < 0.05). The rate of amplification of c-erbB-2 gene in patients with positive lymph node was approximately two times as high as that in negative nodo patients, but this difference was not significant (P > 0.20).

[A study on the regulation of ACTH secretion in rat pituitary cells]

In addition to method of ACTH RIA, a rat pituitary cell perfusion system was developed for the assessment of pituitary cells in stimulating and inhibiting ACTH secretion induced by some substances. Hypothalamic extract stimulated the ACTH secretion in a dose-dependent manner. AVP, cAMP, Ca2+, K+, noradrenaline, metoclopramide and haloperidol also had some stimulating effect. Dexamethasone and dopamine inhibited the basal ACTH secretion of pituitary cell and antagonized the effect of the various stimulating substances. Cyproheptadine could antagonize the effect of some of the stimulating substances while GABA had no marked inhibiting effect.

Association between allotypes of complement components C2, BF, C4 of HLA class III and cerebral stroke

Allotypes of C2, BF and C4 in 58 patients with cerebral stroke (CS) and 110 normal control individuals in Guangzhou district were determined. The results show that there is a significant association between BF*F and CS.

Biochemical and morphological studies of steady state and lipopolysaccaride treated bovine articular cartilage explant cultures

Explants of bovine articular cartilage were cultured for up to 50 days in 20% fetal calf serum in the presence or absence of the endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS); or in various protocols involving different treatment times with LPS followed by recovery times in the absence of LPS. Cultures were measured in terms of rates of proteoglycan synthesis (incorporation of [35S]sulfate), proteoglycan contents and collagen contents. Histological sections were prepared for both light and electron microscopy. In fetal calf serum, the rates of synthesis and contents of proteoglycans per collagen remained constant, while for LPS treated cultures both parameters decreased. For recovery groups, the rates of proteoglycan synthesis increased during the time of recovery if the LPS treatment times were relatively short (2 weeks or less) and if the tissue was obtained from younger animals; net increase in proteoglycan contents occurred infrequently if at all during recovery protocols. Histological examinations revealed that chondrocytes in cultures maintained in fetal calf serum appeared normal with large stores of glycogen. In LPS treated cultures, chondrocytes were depleted of glycogen stores and contained numerous lipid droplets. In recovery cultures, chondrocytes replenished their glycogen contents, but the lipid droplets remained. For both LPS treated and recovery groups the extracellular matrix was depleted of proteoglycans with time in culture. The results provide further evidence for the ability of this explant culture system to maintain steady state metabolic parameters for proteoglycan metabolism over long time periods and for its utility to study reagents which regulate or perturb these parameters.