Massive Left Ventricular Thrombus After ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction in a Young Man With Factor V Leiden

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STEMI caused by obstructive CAD is uncommon in young adults.

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Factor V Leiden and antipsychotic medication use may increase the risk for ACS.

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LV thrombus is a common complication of acute anterior STEMI.

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TTE is the most common imaging modality used in diagnosing LV thrombus.

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Anticoagulation therapy for LV thrombus should be individually tailored.

[Quantitative analysis of lipid metabolism-related differential proteins in patients with alcoholic liver disease]

Objective: To screen and identify differential proteins, analyze lipid metabolism-related proteins and pathways, and explore their functions and biological processes in liver tissue of patients with alcoholic liver disease using tandem mass tag (TMT) labeling technology. Methods: Liver tissues that met the inclusion criteria were collected. Eight samples from patients with alcoholic cirrhosis and three samples from the normal control group were screened out. The TMT technique was used to screen differential proteins, perform signaling pathway enrichment analysis, and analyze protein interaction networks to explore the biological processes involved in them. Results: Proteomic analysis identified 2 741 kinds of differentially expressed proteins in the two groups of data with statistical significance (P < 0.05). The standard criteria of P < 0.05 and |log2(foldchange)| > 1 had screened out 106 kinds of differentially expressed proteins. Compared with the control group, the alcoholic liver disease group had 12 kinds of up-regulated proteins and 94 kinds of down-regulated proteins. Among them, there were 2 kinds of up-regulated differential proteins related to lipid metabolism and 14 kinds of down-regulated differential proteins. The results of bioinformatics analysis showed that these proteins were primarily involved in biological processes such as lipid transport, regulation of lipase activity, fatty acid binding, and cholesterol metabolism in lipid metabolism and also had a close link to signal pathways related to lipid metabolism such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor signaling pathways, cholesterol metabolism, triglyceride metabolism, and regulation of lipolysis in adipocytes. Conclusion: The 16 kinds of lipid metabolism-related differential proteins may be the key proteins in the pathogenesis of alcoholic liver disease.

Mutations in protein kinase Cγ promote spinocerebellar ataxia type 14 by impairing kinase autoinhibition

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 14 (SCA14) is a neurodegenerative disease caused by germline variants in the diacylglycerol (DAG)/Ca2+-regulated protein kinase Cγ (PKCγ), leading to Purkinje cell degeneration and progressive cerebellar dysfunction. Most of the identified mutations cluster in the DAG-sensing C1 domains. Here, we found with a FRET-based activity reporter that SCA14-associated PKCγ mutations, including a previously undescribed variant, D115Y, enhanced the basal activity of the kinase by compromising its autoinhibition. Unlike other mutations in PKC that impair its autoinhibition but lead to its degradation, the C1 domain mutations protected PKCγ from such down-regulation. This enhanced basal signaling rewired the brain phosphoproteome, as revealed by phosphoproteomic analysis of cerebella from mice expressing a human SCA14-associated H101Y mutant PKCγ transgene. Mutations that induced a high basal activity in vitro were associated with earlier average age of onset in patients. Furthermore, the extent of disrupted autoinhibition, but not agonist-stimulated activity, correlated with disease severity. Molecular modeling indicated that almost all SCA14 variants not within the C1 domain were located at interfaces with the C1B domain, suggesting that mutations in and proximal to the C1B domain are a susceptibility for SCA14 because they uniquely enhance PKCγ basal activity while protecting the enzyme from down-regulation. These results provide insight into how PKCγ activation is modulated and how deregulation of the cerebellar phosphoproteome by SCA14-associated mutations affects disease progression.

[Sorafenib regulates vascular endothelial growth factor by runt-related transcription factor-3 to inhibit angiogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma]

Objective: To investigate the molecular mechanism of sorafenib against hepatocellular carcinoma. Methods: Sorafenib efficacy was screened and verified by the hepatocellular carcinoma patient-derived tumor xenograft (PDX) model. Veterinary B-mode ultrasonography and in vivo confocal laser scanning microscopy were used to observe PDX angiogenesis. Immunohistochemistry was used to observe the expression of proliferation and angiogenesis-related proteins in PDX tissue. Real-time quantitative PCR technology was used to observe the RUNX3 gene in PDX tissues. SPSS 17.0 statistical software was used for statistical analysis. Results: Four cases of PDX were used to screen the efficacy of sorafenib. PDX1 had a significant response to sorafenib, with an inhibition rate of 68.07%. Compared with the control group, sorafenib had significantly inhibited PDX1 relative tumor volume (5.76±2.14 vs. 11.71±2.87, P<0.05). Cell division index (39.50±7.72 vs. 67.10±9.14, P<0.05) and Ki67 expression (288.6±43.40 vs. 531.70±55.60, P<0.05) were significantly decreased. Veterinary B-mode ultrasonography showed evident blood flow signals in PDX1 tumors. In vivo confocal laser scanning microscopy results showed that sorafenib had significantly reduced the total vessel length (1573.00±236.21 vs. 2675.03±162.00, P<0.05) and area (11 145.33±1931.97 vs. 20 105.37±885.93, P<0.05)) of PDX1 tumors. Immunohistochemical results showed that sorafenib had significantly down-regulated the protein expressions of CD34 (27.55±3.76 vs. 45.47±5.57, P<0.05), VEGF (16.33±2.86 vs. 22.77±3.20, P<0.05) and MVD (38.75±6.01 vs. 55.50±8.61, P<0.05). Real-time PCR results showed that sorafenib had significantly up-regulated RUNX3 gene expression (2.14±0.71 vs. 1.00±0.36, P<0.05). However, there was a negative correlation between the expression of RUNX3 gene and the ratio of VEGF-positive cells in sorafenib group (R²=0.509 7). Conclusion: Sorafenib may inhibit the PDX angiogenesis and the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating the RUNX3-VEGF pathway.

[The safety of atropine for myopia prevention and control]

Atropine is a classical drug with a wide use in clinical practice. In ophthalmology, atropine can be used for cycloplegia before optometry, and the treatment of amblyopia, iridocyclitis, malignant glaucoma, etc. In recent years, the "old drugs with new application " research and application of atropine for myopia prevention and control has become a hotspot and the efficacy of atropine has been preliminarily recognized. However, before the widely used in clinical, the safety of atropine draws attention. Researches concerning side effects of atropine were searched. The most common problem is photophobia due to dilated pupils, followed by poor near visual acuity, allergy and inflammation, local irritation. Other side effects include withdraw rebound, dry eyes, elevation of intraocular pressure, system reactions, photic damage and toxicity. Among them, some side effects are theoretical yet, and the long-term effects of some side reactions are not clear. Further research and exploration is needed to serve clinical evidence. At present, investigational usage for myopia prevention and control in clinical trials of atropine can be beneficial. Safety observation and efficacy evaluation are equally important in the course of application. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2021, 57: 299-304).

[Construction of apoptosis-stimulating of p53 protein 2 gene knockout mice and its effect on diethylnitrosamine-induced liver cancer]

Objective: To construct apoptosis-stimulating of p53 protein 2 (ASPP2) gene knockout mice using diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced liver cancer model to study the biological functions of ASPP2. Methods: The sgRNA oligonucleotides were constructed, and ASPP2 knockout mice were prepared with the CRISPR/Cas9 system. PCR and sequencing methods were used to identify the genotypes of F0 and F1 generations and their progeny. DEN was used to induce ASPP2+/- mice to establish liver cancer model. Results: PCR and sequencing results showed that ASPP2 gene was successfully knocked out in F0 generation mice. The genotype of F1 generation mice was accorded with ASPP2+/- and had obtained stable heredity. The success rate of DEN-induced liver cancer model (7/8 and 3 / 8) of ASPP2 + /-mice obtained by self-hybridization of F1 generation was significantly higher than that of wild-type mice. Conclusion: ASPP2 knockout mice were successfully constructed based on the CRISPR/Cas9 system. The success rate of DEN-induced liver cancer model of ASPP2 knockout mice was significantly higher than that of the wild-type mice.

[Role of endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated glycogen synthase kinase 3β activity in pathogenesis of acute liver failure in mice]

Objective: To study the role of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-mediated glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) activity in the pathological process of liver injury in acute liver failure (ALF) mice. Methods: ALF model was established by intraperitoneal injection of D-galactosamine/lipopolysaccharide (D-GalN/LPS) in C57BL/6 mice. The mice were divided into control group (n=10), ALF model group (n=18), 4-phenylbutyrate (4-PBA, an ER stress inhibitor) group (n=18) and SB216763 (a specific inhibitor of GSK3β) group (n=16). The serum alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) levels were measured to reflect the liver function, liver injury was assessed by observing pathological changes of liver tissue, the levels of proteins in liver tissue were analyzed by Western blotting, the activity of GSK3β in liver tissue was detected using GSK3β activity assay kit, and the survival rate of hepatocyte was measured by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay. Results: In in vivo experiment, the expression levels of ER stress markers, glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP), were upregulated during the progression of D-GalN/LPS-induced ALF, indicating activation of severe ER stress and increased activity of GSK3β. Compared with the model group, inhibition of ER stress by 4-PBA improved liver function[ALT: (365.4±58.6) U/L vs (1 094.5±201.5) U/L, P<0.05; AST: (555.1±60.8) U/L vs (1 444.3±533.7) U/L, P<0.05)and pathological injury, also decreased the activity of GSK3β (2.6±0.3 vs 4.6±1.3, P<0.05). Inhibition of GSK3β activity was shown to alleviate liver injury in ALF by reducing the expression levels of GRP78 and CHOP. The in vitro experiment of tunicamycin-induced hepatocyte apoptosis showed that inhibition of GSK3β activity increased the cell survival rate. Conclusion: In ALF induced by D-GalN/LPS, severe ER stress may accelerate the development and progress of ALF by upregulating the activity of GSK3β.

[Protective effect of glycogen synthase kinase 3β inhibition via peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha activation in mice with acute liver failure]

Objective: To investigate the role of the glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) and the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) signaling pathway in acute liver failure and related mechanisms in a mouse model of acute liver failure induced by D-galactosamine/lipopolysaccharide (D-GalN/LPS). Methods: C57BL/6 mice were given intraperitoneal injection of D-GalN/LPS to establish a mouse model of acute liver failure. SB216763 was used to inhibit the activity of GSK3β and PPARα siRNA was used to inhibit the expression of PPARα. Western blotting was used to measure the expression of PPARα protein. The changes in liver pathology were observed to evaluate liver injury, and the serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were measured to assess liver function. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to measure the mRNA expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-12p40 (IL-12p40), and PPARα. A one-way analysis of variance was used for comparison of means between multiple groups; the least significant difference test was used for data with homogeneity of variance, and the Games-Howell method was used for data with heterogeneity of variance. Results: In the mice with liver failure induced by D-GalN/LPS, GSK3β inhibition promoted the mRNA and protein expression of PPARα (F = 13.18 and 301.36, P = 0.00 and 0.00). In the mice with acute liver failure induced by D-GalN/LPS, GSK3β inhibition alleviated liver bleeding, inflammation, and necrosis and reduced the serum levels of ALT (F = 25.16, P = 0.000) and AST (F = 12.96, P = 0.001), as well as the mRNA expression of TNF-α (F = 32.17, P = 0.00), IL-1β (F = 11.57, P = 0.005), and IL-12p40 (F = 14.17, P = 0.015) in liver tissue. The inhibition of PPARα expression reversed the liver-protecting effect of GSK3β inhibition, which manifested as aggravation in liver bleeding, inflammation, and necrosis, increases in the serum levels of ALT (F = 25.16, P = 0.001) and AST (F = 12.96, P = 0.000), and an increase in the mRNA expression of TNF-α (F = 32.17, P = 0.00), IL-1β (F = 11.57, P = 0.024), and IL-12p40 (F = 14.17, P = 0.001) in liver tissue. Conclusion: In mice with acute liver failure induced by D-GalN/LPS, the GSK3β-PPARα-inflammatory factor signaling pathway may play an important role. GSK3β inhibition has a protective effect in mice with acute liver failure possibly by activating the inhibitory inflammatory factor of PPARα.

[Effect of Δ40p53 isoform on enhancing the pro-apoptotic function of p53 in tumor cells]

Objective: To investigate the effect of Δ40p53, an alternative spliced isoform of p53 lacking the N-ter minus, on the pro-apoptotic function of p53. Methods: The wild-type p53 was ectopically expressed in HCT116-p53(-/-) (endogenous Δ40p53 expression), HCT116-p53(+ /+) (wild-type p53) and H1299 (p53-null) cells by adenoviral delivery, while Δ40p53 plasmid were transfected into these cells to overexpress Δ40p53. The levels of Δ40p53 and p53 mRNA were detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and quantitative PCR. The expression of related proteins was deter mined by Western blotting. The interaction of p53 and Δ40p53 was observed by co-immunoprecipitation assay. Calcein-AM/propidium iodide (PI) staining and flow cytometry were used to detect the apoptotic rate of tested cells in each group. Results: HCT116-p53(-/-) cells expressed endogenous Δ40p53 isoform. Neither transcription nor protein expression of wild-type p53 was interfered by the increased expression of Δ40p53. Full length p53 and Δ40p53 could bind to each other. Calcein-AM/PI staining showed that the apoptotic rates of H1299-Control, HCT116-p53(-/-) -Control, H1299+ p53, HCT116-p53(-/-)+ p53, H1299+ oxaliplatin (Oxa), HCT116-p53(-/-)+ Oxa, H1299+ p53+ Oxa and HCT116-p53(-/-)+ p53+ Oxa groups were (2.50±0.47)%, (2.40±0.32)%, (5.20±0.58)%, (4.10±0.18)%, (22.40±1.73)%, (19.30±1.11)%, (29.90±1.15)% and (39.30±2.26)%, respectively. It was statistically significant between H1299+ p53+ Oxa and HCT116-p53(-/-)+ p53+ Oxa groups (t=3.721, P=0.0205). Moreover, the apoptotic rates of H1299-Control, H1299+ Δ40p53, H1299+ p53, H1299+ p53+ Δ40p53, H1299+ Oxa, H1299+ Δ40p53+ Oxa, H1299+ p53+ Oxa and H1299+ p53+ Δ40p53+ Oxa groups were (2.60±0.35)%, (2.20±0.17)%, (4.80±0.49)%, (4.90±1.10)%, (20.30±1.10)%, (19.60±1.45)%, (27.90±1.39)%, (35.20±1.43)%, respectively. Furthermore, flow cytometry assay showed that the apoptotic rates of above cells were (2.70±0.32)%, (2.20±0.24)%, (4.60±0.48)%, (3.90±0.67)%, (19.30±1.11)%, (17.70±0.66)%, (28.30±2.76)% and (37.50±1.51)%, respectively. H1299+ p53+ Δ40p53+ Oxa cells showed higher cell apoptosis than H1299+ p53+ Oxa cells (t=2.930, P=0.042). Conclusion: Δ40p53 isoform can bind to full-length p53, and enhance its pro-apoptotic function in tumor cells.

Serum Proteomics Analysis in Rats of Immunosuppression Induced by Chronic Stress

The immune system can be damaged by chronic stress. However, for this process, the involved molecular alterations and their regulatory roles played in immunosuppression still remain unclear. This study was aimed to identify the differences in serum protein expressions that are closely associated with the effect of chronic stress on immune function. Serum protein levels of rats in control group and chronic stress group were measured by iTRAQ analysis. Subsequently, among the 121 differentially expressed proteins screened between the two groups, 46 proteins were upregulated (>1.5-fold, P < 0.05), while 75 proteins were downregulated (<0.67-fold, P < 0.05). Bioinformatics analysis revealed that most of the differentially expressed proteins were in relation with the metabolic, cellular, response stimulus and immune system processes. The significantly differential expression of ceruloplasmin, haptoglobin, catalase and peroxiredoxin-1 were picked out for reconfirmation by ELISA analysis. The results were consistent with those obtained by iTRAQ. What is more, the roles of above-mentioned four proteins, apolipoprotein B-100 and heat-shock protein 90 in immunosuppression induced by chronic stress were discussed. Taken together, these findings may provide a new insight into better understanding the molecular mechanisms of immunosuppression induced by chronic stress.

Millimeter-wave imaging diagnostics systems on the EAST tokamak (invited)

Millimeter-wave imaging diagnostics, with large poloidal span and wide radial range, have been developed on the EAST tokamak for visualization of 2D electron temperature and density fluctuations. A 384 channel (24 poloidal × 16 radial) Electron Cyclotron Emission Imaging (ECEI) system in F-band (90-140 GHz) was installed on the EAST tokamak in 2012 to provide 2D electron temperature fluctuation images with high spatial and temporal resolution. A co-located Microwave Imaging Reflectometry (MIR) will be installed for imaging of density fluctuations by December 2016. This "4th generation" MIR system has eight independent frequency illumination beams in W-band (75-110 GHz) driven by fast tuning synthesizers and active multipliers. Both of these advanced millimeter-wave imaging diagnostic systems have applied the latest techniques. A novel design philosophy "general optics structure" has been employed for the design of the ECEI and MIR receiver optics with large aperture. The extended radial and poloidal coverage of ECEI on EAST is made possible by innovations in the design of front-end optics. The front-end optical structures of the two imaging diagnostics, ECEI and MIR, have been integrated into a compact system, including the ECEI receiver and MIR transmitter and receiver. Two imaging systems share the same mid-plane port for simultaneous, co-located 2D fluctuation measurements of electron density and temperature. An intelligent remote-control is utilized in the MIR electronics systems to maintain focusing at the desired radial region even with density variations by remotely tuning the probe frequencies in about 200 μs. A similar intelligent technique has also been applied on the ECEI IF system, with remote configuration of the attenuations for each channel.

[Role of autophagy in acute liver failure induced by D-galactosamine/lipopolysaccharide in mice]

Objective: To investigate the expression and role of autophagy in the progression of acute liver failure (ALF) using the mouse model of ALF induced by D-galactosamine/LPS (D-GalN/LPS). Methods: The C57BL/6 mice were used, and intraperitoneal injection of D-galactosamine (D-GalN) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was performed to establish the mouse model of ALF. The mice were divided into control group and 2-, 4-, and 6-hour D-GalN/LPS-induced ALF model groups. The serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were measured to assess liver function, and the pathological changes in liver tissue were observed to evaluate the status of liver injury. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to measure the expression of autophagy-related genes, Western blot was used to measure the expression of autophagy-related proteins in liver tissue, and a fluorescence microscope was used to observe the expression of autophagosome in the progression of liver failure. A one-way ANOVA was used for comparison of means of multiple samples between any two groups (LSD-t test for data with homogeneity of variance and Games-Howell method for data with heterogeneity of variance).P< 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The ALF model groups showed gradual liver impairment over the time of D-GalN/LPS stimulation. There were significant increases in ALT and AST after 4 hours; the pathological injury of liver tissue gradually aggravated over the time of D-GalN/LPS stimulation and fulfilled the criteria for ALF at 6 hours. The mRNA and protein expression of autophagy-related genes (ATG-7, ATG-5, Beclin-1, Lamp-1, and LC3a) increased in the early and medium stages of ALF (2 and 4 hours) and decreased after ALF progressed to liver failure (6 hours). As was observed via the fluorescence microscope, the 4-hour D-GalN/LPS-induced ALF model group showed the highest expression of autophagosome. Conclusion: The expression of autophagy gradually increases in the early and medium stages of ALF and decreases when ALF progresses to liver failure. Therefore, autophagy plays an important role in the pathogenesis of ALF.

Genetic characterization of red-colored heartwood genotypes of Chinese fir using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers

The present study investigated the genetic characterization of red-colored heartwood Chinese fir [Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook.] in Guangxi using 21 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers and analyzes of the genetic variation (N = 149) in samples obtained from five sites in Guangxi Province, China. The number of different alleles and the Shannon's information index per locus ranged from 3 to 12 and from 0.398 to 2.258 with average values of 6 and 1.211, respectively, indicating moderate levels of genetic diversity within this germplasm collection. The observed and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.199 to 0.827 and from 0.198 to 0.878 with an average of 0.562 and 0.584, respectively. Although, the mean fixation index was 0.044, indicative of a low level of genetic differentiation among germplasms, analysis of molecular variance revealed considerable differentiation (99%) within the samples. The neighbor-joining dendrogram revealed that the majority of red-colored Chinese fir genotypes were apparently not associated with their geographic origins. Further analysis by STRUCTURE showed that this Guangxi germplasm collection could be divided into three genetic groups comprising 76, 37, and 36 members, respectively; these were classified into mixed groups with no obvious population structure. These results were consistent with those of the cluster analysis. On the whole, our data provide a starting point for the management and conservation of the current Guangxi germplasm collection as well as for their efficient use in Chinese fir-breeding programs.

Genetic structure and genetic diversity of single-variety Lonicera macranthoides populations in China, as indicated by SCoT markers

Lonicera macranthoides is an important traditional Chinese herb. The lack of information regarding the genetic structure and genetic relationships among its cultivars has hindered the conservation and utilization of this resource. This study used start codon targeted markers to assess the genetic diversity and other genetic characteristics of five single-variety L. macranthoides populations in China. Using 22 primers produced a total of 266 bands, of which 227 were polymorphic, indicating a high level of polymorphism. At the species level, genetic diversity was high: percentage of polymorphic loci (PPB) = 85.34%, effective number of alleles (NE) = 1.3479, Nei's gene diversity (H) = 0.2075, and Shannon's information index (Hsp, species level) = 0.3198. However, at the varietal population level, genetic diversity was lower, with averages of: PPB = 19.74%, NE = 1.0946, H = 0.0561, Hpop = 0.0850 (population level). Nei's genetic differentiation coefficient was 0.7319, which is consistent with Shannon's population genetic differentiation coefficient (0.7324). This indicates that most of the genetic variation in this species exists among the varietal populations. The differentiation among varieties may have been caused by artificial selection, mode of reproduction, and barriers to gene flow (0.1831). The genetic similarity coefficient ranged from 0.7222 to 0.9419. Phylogenetic analysis showed the five varieties to form two major clades. Results suggest that cultivar breeders should strengthen the exchange of germplasm and increase the mutual penetration of useful genes, which would broaden the hereditary basis of L. macranthoides.

Clinical features of diabetes mellitus cases complicated by Burkholderia pseudomallei septicemia

The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical characteristics of diabetes mellitus patients with Burkholderia pseudomallei septicemia and evaluate strategies of diagnosis and treatment. The clinical characteristics, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of 39 diabetes mellitus patients with B. pseudomallei septicemia were retrospectively analyzed. Farmers, fishermen and workers were found to be high-risk groups. The clinical manifestations of patients were diverse without specific features, but mainly presented manifestations of acute fulminant septicemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, and abscesses in tissues or/and organs. Patients showed high mortality and misdiagnosis rates and were prone to relapses and long treatment duration as there are currently few effective and sensitive antibiotics for the disease. Consequently, the cost of treatment for the disease was high. Early diagnosis, a prolonged course of heavy doses of sensitive intravenous antibiotics, drainage of abscesses, intensive insulin therapy, and supportive treatment are the keys for successful management of the disease. Regular follow-ups combined with long-term blood glucose control can help reduce the disease recurrence.

Genetic diversity and population structure of wild Dipsacus asperoides in China as indicated by ISSR markers

In order to evaluate the genetic diversity and genetic structure of wild Dipsacus asperoides, we surveyed genetic polymorphisms in 288 individuals from 12 populations using ISSR. A total of 240 bands were amplified, among which 190 were polymorphic loci. At the species level, genetic diversity was found to be abundant: PPB = 79.17%, NE = 1.2152, H = 0.1361, and Hsp = 0.2213. At the population level, genetic diversity was lower: PPB = 30.76 %, NE = 1.0786, H = 0.0897, and Hpop = 0.1375. The calculated Nei genetic differentiation coefficient was 0.3406, which is consistent with the calculated Shannon population genetic differentiation coefficient of 0.3787. This is commonly taken to indicate that most of the genetic variation existed within the populations. Gene flow was calculated as Nm = 0.9679, suggesting that gene exchange only occurred at a low level. Based on the Nei genetic distance, the 12 populations were divided into 4 categories. Our results suggest that D. asperoides has abundant genetic diversity and provides a foundation for the protection and improvement of germplasm resources.

Characterization and ontogenetic expression analysis of the myosin light chains from the fast white muscle of mandarin fish Siniperca chuatsi

Three full-length complementary DNA (cDNA) clones were isolated encoding the skeletal myosin light chain 1 (MLC1; 1237 bp), myosin light chain 2 (MLC2; 1206 bp) and myosin light chain 3 (MLC3; 1079 bp) from the fast white muscle cDNA library of mandarin fish Siniperca chuatsi. The sequence analysis indicated that MLC1 and MLC3 were not produced from differentially spliced messenger RNAs (mRNA) as reported in birds and rodents but were encoded by different genes. The MLC2 encodes 170 amino acids, which include four EF-hand (helix-loop-helix) structures. The primary structures of the Ca(2+)-binding domain were well conserved among the MLC2s of seven other fish species. The ontogenetic expression analysis by real-time PCR showed that the three light-chain mRNAs were first detected in the gastrula stage, and their expression increased from the tail bud stage to the larval stage. All three MLC mRNAs showed longitudinal expression variation in the fast white muscle of S. chuatsi, especially MLC1 which was highly expressed at the posterior area. Taken together, the study provides a better understanding about the MLC gene structure and their expression pattern in muscle development of S. chuatsi.

Comparison of three current sources for single-electrode capacitance measurement

The capacitance of a single electrode is usually measured by injecting a current to the electrode and measuring the resultant voltage on the electrode. In this case, a voltage-controlled current source with a high bandwidth is needed because the impedance is inversely proportional to the excitation frequency. In this design note, three different current sources are discussed: (1) the Howland current source, (2) a modified Howland current source, and (3) a dual op-amp current source. The principle and dynamic performances are presented and compared. Simulation and experimental results show that although the Howland current source has the lowest (i.e., worst) output impedance, its output is the most stable among the three current sources when the frequency changes. Therefore, it is suitable for single-electrode capacitance measurement. Initial tests have proven the feasibility of single-electrode capacitance sensor with the Howland current source.

Increased glycophorin A somatic cell variant frequency in arsenic-exposed patients of Guizhou, China

Exposure to arsenic through domestic burning arsenic-containing coal causes various tumors in a population of Guizhou, China. The glycophorin A (GPA) assay is a human mutation assay detecting somatic variation in erythrocytes expressing the MN blood type, and was used to assess genotoxicity of arsenic-exposed patients. Peripheral blood was collected from 18 adult healthy subjects and 40 arsenic-exposed patients in heparin-treated tubes. Erythrocytes were isolated, fixed in formalin and immuno-labeled with fluorescent antibodies against GPA, followed by flow cytometry analysis. Arsenic exposure increased the variant frequency (expressed as the number of variant red cells per 10(6) erythrocytes): NN, 3.7 in healthy subjects versus 21.2 in arsenic-exposed patients; N phi, 12.6 versus 33.1; MM, 13.1 versus 110; and M phi, 5.2 versus 20.3. The total GPA variant frequency was increased about five-fold (34.7 in healthy subjects versus 185 in arsenosis patients). Furthermore, the variant frequency was significantly higher in skin tumor-bearing patients: NN, 19.4 in arsenic-exposed non-tumor patients versus 31.5 in tumor-bearing patients; N phi, 29.5 versus 54.5; MM, 102 versus 159; M phi, 15.9 versus 45.1. Total GPA variant frequency in arsenic-exposed patients bearing skin tumors was significantly increased compared to patients without skin tumors (167 versus 290). The relationship between arsenic exposure history and GPA variant frequency was less evident. These data demonstrate that arsenic exposure is associated with mutations at the GPA locus, an effect exaggerated in patients bearing arsenic-induced skin tumors. The variant frequency of GPA could be a useful biomarker for arsenic exposure and arsenic carcinogenesis.

Optimization of submerged culture requirements for the production of mycelial growth and exopolysaccharide by Cordyceps jiangxiensis JXPJ 0109

AIMS

The objective of the present study was to investigate the optimal culture requirements for mycelial growth and exopolysaccharide production by Cordyceps jiangxiensis JXPJ 0109 in submerged culture.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The effects of medium ingredients (i.e. carbon and nitrogen sources, and growth factor) and other culture requirements (i.e. initial pH, temperature, etc.) on the production of mycelia and exopolysaccharide were observed using a one-factor-at-a-time method. More suitable culture requirements for mycelial growth and exopolysaccharide production were proved to be maltose, glycerol, tryptone, soya bean steep powder, yeast extract, medium capacity 200 ml in a 500-ml flask, agitation rate 180 rev min(-1), seed age 4-8 days, inoculum size 2.5-7.5% (v/v), etc. The optimal temperatures and initial pHs for mycelial growth and exopolysaccharide production were at 26 degrees C and pH 5 and at 28 degrees C and pH 7, respectively, and corresponding optimal culture age were observed to be 8 and 10 days respectively. According to the primary results of the one-factor-at-a-time experiments, the optimal medium for the mycelial growth and exopolysaccharide production were obtained using an orthogonal layout method to optimize further. Herein the effects of medium ingredients on the mycelial growth of C. jiangxiensis JXPJ 0109 were in the order of yeast extract > tryptone > maltose > CaCl2 > glycerol > MgSO4 > KH2PO4 and the optimal concentration of each composition was 15 g maltose (food-grade), 10 g glycerol, 10 g tryptone, 10 g yeast extract, 1 g KH2PO4, 0.2 g MgSO4, and 0.5 g CaCl2 in 1 l of distilled water, while the order of effects of those components on exopolysaccharide production was yeast extract > maltose > tryptone > glycerol > KH2PO4 > CaCl2 > MgSO4, corresponding to the optimal concentration of medium was as follows: 20 g maltose (food-grade), 8 g glycerol, 5 g tryptone, 10 g yeast extract, 1 g KH2PO4, and 0.5 g CaCl2 in 1 l of distilled water.

CONCLUSIONS

Under the optimal culture requirements, the maximum exopolysaccharide production reached 3.5 g l(-1) after 10 days of fermentation, while the maximum production of mycelial growth achieved 14.5 g l(-1) after 8 days of fermentation.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

This is the first report on the submerged culture requirements for mycelial growth and exopolysaccharide in C. jiangxiensis, and this two-step optimization strategy in this study can be widely applied to other microbial fermentation processes.

[Clinical analysis of tooth fracture trauma by masticatory occlusion]

About 185 tooth fracture cases among 184 patients,it was found that tooth fracture happened on misticatory occlusion almost follows the regulation at the same tooth which has suffered of damage,such as dental caries,wedge shaped defect and cracked tooth and so on.The position of tooth damage is that of tooth fracture as well.The range and extent effect obviously on the tooth fracture.The terminal point of fracture line is related closely to pulp condition.It's considered that the out force is the major direct cause of tooth fracture,while position,extent,range and pulp condition before fracture is the main inner inducement fact.

[Extensive and radical surgery for primary ovarian cancer]

From 1983 to 1990, 34 cases of primary ovarian cancer were treated with extensive and radical surgery. Seventeen cases belonged to stage I, 3 cases belonged to stage II and 14 cases were stage III. They consisted of 20 epithelial, 11 germ cell and 2 sex-cord tumors of ovary. The operative method was as follows: infracolic omentectomy, para-aortic and pelvic lymphadenectomy, dilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, total hysterectomy, removing of metastatic implants nd appendectomy. Post surgery, all patients received repeated combination chemotherapy and six cases received irradiation. Four patients underwent the second look operation. The incidence of metastasis of contralateral ovary, omentum, retroperitoneal nodes, uterus, fallopian tubes and appendix were 38.2%, 32.4%, 20.6%, 17.6%, 5.9% and 2.9% respectively. The 3 year survival rate of stage I and II was 92.9%, stage III was 40.0%. The 5 year survival rate of stage I and II was 90.9%, stage III was 50.0%. There was no serious complication both intra and post operation.

Factors influencing ablation of atherosclerotic plaque with argon laser

The ablative effect of argon laser delivered fibreoptically in vitro on 234 segments of atherosclerotic human aorta was studied. The variables such as energy density, type of atheroma and immersion media were included, and all irradiated specimens were subsequently submitted to histological examination and crater volumes in mm3 to micrometer measurements under light microscope. The results showed 1) a linear relationship between energy dose and crater volume in fibrous atheroma, 2) significantly greater damage or surrounding in the higher energy dose groups, 3) a lower dose response in calcified tissue than in fatty streaks or fibrous atheroma, and 4) immersion of tissue in blood during ablation resulted in a significantly greater dose response than immersion in plasma or saline, and the corresponding surrounding tissue damage was greatest when immersed in blood. Thus, argon laser is both effective and predictable in response during ablating of atheromatous tissue. The efficacy of the process is dependent on immersion medium, while the degree of surrounding tissue damage is dependent on energy dose.

Saliva and serum CA 125 assays for detecting malignant ovarian tumors

The aim of this study was to determine whether CA 125 was present in saliva and, if it was present, to compare saliva and serum levels in patients with pelvic masses in order to determine whether saliva assays would be useful in identifying patients with ovarian malignancies. Saliva and serum CA 125 levels were assayed in specimens obtained from 55 normal healthy women, 92 patients with benign pelvic masses, and 41 patients with malignant pelvic tumors. We defined a serum CA 125 value greater than 65 U/mL and a saliva CA 125 value greater than 3000 U/mL as the positivity criteria. No serum or saliva assay was positive in the 55 normal women. The sensitivities of the saliva and serum CA 125 assays in 16 patients with epithelial ovarian cancer were 81.3 and 93.8%, respectively. A linear correlation was observed between serum and saliva CA 125 levels. The false-positive rates of serum CA 125 in patients with endometriomas and pelvic tuberculosis were 72.7 and 80%, respectively, but the false-positive rates for saliva CA 125 assays were only 13.6 and 10%, respectively. Therefore, the saliva CA 125 assay had a better diagnostic value than the serum CA 125 assay. In addition, collection of saliva is simple, noninvasive, and inexpensive, and samples could be obtained easily and repeatedly. For these reasons, assays of saliva CA 125 levels may be a new way of screening for malignant ovarian tumors.

[Primary research on saliva and serum CA125 assays for detecting malignant ovarian tumors]

Saliva and serum CA125 levels were assayed in specimens obtained from 55 normal healthy women, 92 patients with benign pelvic masses and 41 patients with malignant pelvic tumors. A saliva CA125 value greater than 3,000 kU/ml and serum CA125 value greater than 65 kU/ml were defined as positive. Only one saliva assay was positive in 55 normal women. The sensitivity of saliva and serum CA125 assays in 16 patients with epithelial ovarian cancer was 81% and 94% respectively. A linear correlation was observed between serum and saliva CA125 levels in 32 patients with malignant ovarian cancer. The false positive rate of saliva and serum CA125 assays in patients with endometriomas and pelvic tuberculosis was 13.6%, 10% and 72.7%, 80% respectively. Therefore, the saliva CA125 assay had better diagnostic value than the serum CA125 assay. In addition, collection of saliva is simple, noninvasive, and inexpensive and could be obtained repeatedly. For these reasons, assays of saliva CA125 levels may provide a new way of screening for malignant ovarian tumors.

[A preliminary study on in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer]

Forty-two women with infertility were enrolled in an in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF/ET) program, from July, 1986 to February, 1988, at the First Affiliated Hospital, Human Medical University. CC/hMG/hCG and hMG/hCG regimens for ovulation induction were used for 35 and 7 patients. Monitoring methods consisted of daily follicular ultrasonography and serum estradiol measurements. Human chorionic gonadotropin 10,000IU was administered when the leading follicle reached 18mm in diameter and serum E2 level was equal to or more than 1,480 pmol/L (400 pg/ml). Twenty-one laparoscopies and nineteen laparotomies for oocyte retrieval were performed. The IVF/ET results using CC/hMG/hCG for ovarian stimulation were as follows: an average of 6.1 follicles were aspirated and 3.5 oocytes recovered for one case. The recovery rate and fertilization rate was 57.0% and 60.1% respectively. In twenty-five women one to five embryos were transferred and a clinical pregnancy occurred in one who received three embryos. Laparotomy for oocyte retrieval showed that more oocytes could be obtained than laparoscopy. The purity of CO2 used for laparoscopy was considered to affect the IVF results.

Determination of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase isoenzymes of human erythrocytes by a thin-layer PAG-IEF procedure

A procedure of thin-layer PAG-IEF was employed to separate glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) isoenzymes of human erythrocytes into 15-16 bands in a pH range between 4.7 and 6.5. The G6PD isoenzymes were scanned with a dual-wavelength thin-layer chromatoscanner and the relative enzyme content of each band was calculated. The method possesses the merits of simplicity, high sensitivity, rapidity and high reproducibility.

A study of the monoclonal antibody OC 125 to diagnose malignant ovarian tumors

Serum CA 125 was assayed preoperatively in 40 patients with ovarian malignancies and in 44 normal individuals. The correlation between CA 125 and tumor histology, tumor burden, ascites, and the clinical stage was analyzed. CA 125 levels greater than 65 U/ml were defined as positive. The results revealed normal values in each of the 44 normal individuals. CA 125 was elevated in 35 of 40 (87.5%) patients with malignant ovarian tumors including 23 of 24 (95.8%) patients with epithelial ovarian cancers, 7 of whom had stage I disease. Serum CA 125 was also elevated in 12 of 16 (75%) patients with nonepithelial ovarian malignancies. The results suggest that the CA 125 level can be correlated with tumor histology, tumor burden, and ascites but not with clinical stage.

[Urinary complications following radical hysterectomy for 621 patients with cancer of uterine cervix]

The chief urinary complications following radical hysterectomy for 621 patients with cervical cancer are reported. Bladder and ureteral injury occurred in 0.16% and 0.64% of patients. The incidence of ureteral fistula was also very low (0.16%). Temporary retention of urine was one of the most common urinary complications with occurring rate of 43%. The incidence was related to the type of radical hysterectomy. The incidence of urinary tract infection was 14.33% which was related to the retention of urine. The results of urine culture showed that the main pathogens of infection were B. aeruginosus and Escherichia coli. Impairment of kidney function, usually unilateral, was the major late urinary complication. The severity, causes and prevention of urinary complications are briefly discussed.

Evaluation of CA 125 levels in differentiating malignant from benign tumors in patients with pelvic masses

Serum CA 125 levels were assayed from 44 normal healthy women, 153 patients with benign pelvic masses, and 58 patients with malignant pelvic masses. CA 125 levels were less than 35 U/mL in 42 of the 44 normal women and were greater than 35 but less than 65 U/mL in the other two women. Among 153 patients with benign pelvic masses, CA 125 levels greater than 35, 65, or 194 U/mL were detected in 61 (39.9%), 31 (20.3%), and eight (5.2%) patients, respectively. Of 58 patients with malignant pelvic masses, CA 125 results were greater than 35, 65, or 194 U/mL in 48 (82.8%), 45 (77.6%), and 38 (65.5%), respectively. Among the latter group, the positivity rates of 30 patients with epithelial ovarian cancers were 100, 93, and 80%, respectively. This study suggests that defining positive serum CA 125 levels as those greater than 35 U/mL is of limited clinical value because there is a 39.9% false-positive rate in patients with benign disease. However, serum CA 125 values greater than 65 U/mL may be considered positive in clinically normal women. Serum CA 125 greater than 194 U/mL, representing the units at the 95th percentile for 153 patients with benign pelvic masses, is defined as a new positivity criterion, and could be used to differentiate malignant tumors from benign pelvic masses.