[The multisystem deformities features of Klippel-Feil syndrome patients combined with congenital scoliosis]

Objective: To summarize the characteristics of multisystem deformities in patients with Klippel-Feil syndrome (KFS) combined with congenital scoliosis (CS). Methods: Within the framework of the "Deciphering Disorders Involving Scoliosis and Comorbidities (DISCO)" research collaboration, a retrospective analysis was conducted on patients diagnosed with KFS and CS at Peking Union Medical College Hospital between April 2005 and August 2022. Patient data, including imaging examinations and medical records, were collected to summarize the spinal and associated deformities. Results: A total of 82 KFS patients with concurrent CS were included, comprising 42 males and 40 females. The average age was (12.8±8.9) years. Among the KFS patients, there were 31 cases of Type Ⅰ, 12 cases of Type Ⅱ, and 39 cases of Type Ⅲ. The most common location for the major curve of scoliosis was the mid-thoracic segment (42 cases, 51.2%). Hemivertebrae deformities were most frequently observed in the upper thoracic segment (31 cases, 60.8%). There were no statistically significant differences in age, gender, major curve Cobb angle, or region of hemivertebrae occurrence among the different types of KFS (all P>0.05). Apart from spinal vertebral deformities, intraspinal deformities had the highest comorbidity rate (33 cases, 40.2%). The subjects were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of intraspinal deformity (absence as group G0, presence as group G1), there was a statistically significant difference in the main Cobb angle [M(Q1, Q3)] between the two groups, which was 45.0° (27.5°, 62.0°) and 60.0° (37.5°, 83.5°), respectively (P=0.044). Additionally, a portion of the patients had concurrent cardiovascular system abnormalities (13 cases, 15.9%), craniofacial-ocular-auricular abnormalities (8 cases, 9.8%), genitourinary system abnormalities (7 cases, 8.5%), and gastrointestinal abnormalities (2 cases, 2.4%). Conclusions: Patients with KFS combined with CS commonly present with a major curve of spinal deformity in the mid-thoracic segment and often have comorbidities involving multiple systems. When combined with intraspinal anomalies, the major curve exhibits a greater degree of curvature.

Effect of Ageratina adenophora on hepatic and pulmonic pathological lesions in horses

The effect of Ageratina adenophora on pathological characteristics of the liver and lungs as well as serum biochemical parameters in horses were investigated. Ten horses without ingestion history of Ageratina adenophora were classified into the control group, and 10 poisoned but survived horses with 3 months ingestion history were set as the case group. Results showed that serum AST, ALT, ALP, magnesium and phosphorus were elevated significantly, while creatinine was decreased remarkably. Hematoxylin and eosin staining of liver tissues showed diffuse swelling or destruction of hepatocytes, narrowing or atrophy of the hepatic sinusoids, and little lymphocytic infiltration; lung tissues presented destroyed alveoli and inflammatory cell infiltration.

Characterization of the rumen microbiota and its relationship with residual feed intake in sheep

Feed efficiency is a highly important economic trait in sheep production and has a significant impact on the economic benefits of sheep farming. Microbial fermentation of the rumen has a vital role in the host's nutrition; the rumen microbiota might affect host feed efficiency. However, the relationship between the rumen microbiota and feed efficiency in sheep is unclear. In the present study, the microbiota of 195 Hu sheep was investigated and their residual feed intake (RFI), a commonly used measure of feed efficiency, was determined. From birth, all sheep were subjected to the same management practices. At slaughter, samples of liquid rumen contents were collected and subjected to amplicon sequencing for the 16S rDNA gene on the IonS5™XL platform. To identify the bacterial taxa differentially represented at the genus or higher taxonomy levels, we used linear discriminant analysis coupled with effect size and curve fitting. In the sheep rumen, the four most abundant phyla were Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Fibrobacteres, and Proteobacteria; and the dominant genera were unidentified Prevotellaceae, Fibrobacter, unidentified Lachnospiraceae, Saccharofermentans, and Succinivibrio. Pathway analysis of the 16S rDNA sequencing data from the rumen microbiota identified that carbohydrate metabolism was enriched. Using α-diversity analysis, we further identified that Observed species, ACE, Good's coverage, and Chao1 are more abundant (P < 0.01) in the low-RFI (L-RFI) group compared to the high-RFI (H-RFI) group. High-RFI sheep had a higher abundance of three bacterial taxa (Prevotellaceae, Negativicutes, and Selenomonadales), and one taxa was overrepresented in the L-RFI sheep (Succinivibrio), respectively. Furthermore, model fitting showed that Veillonellaceae, Sphaerochaeta, Negativibacillus, Saccharofermentans, and members of the Tenericutes, Kiritimatiellaeota, Deltaproteobacteria, and Campylobacterales were correlated with the sheep RFI classification and thus were indicative of a role in animal efficiency. Tax4Fun analysis revealed that metabolic pathways such as "energy metabolism," "metabolism of cofactors and vitamins," "poorly characterized," and "replication recombination and repair proteins" were enriched in the rumen from H-RFI sheep, and "genetic information processing" and "lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis" were overrepresented in L-RFI sheep rumen. In addition, six Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes orthology pathways were identified as different between H-RFI and L-RFI groups. In conclusion, the low RFI phenotype (efficient animals) consistently (or characteristically) exhibited a more abundant and diverse microbiome in sheep.

Transcriptome analysis of long noncoding RNAs ribonucleic acids from the livers of Hu sheep with different residual feed intake

Long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs), as key regulators, have vital functions in various biological activities. However, in sheep, little has been reported concerning the genetic mechanism of LncRNA regulation of feed efficiency. In the present study, we explored the genome-wide expression of LncRNAs and transcripts of uncertain coding potential (TUCPs) in the livers of sheep with extreme residual feed intake (RFI) using RNA sequencing. We identified 1 523 TUCPs and 1 996 LncRNAs, among which 10 LncRNAs and 16 TUCPs were identified as being differentially expressed between the High-RFI and Low-RFI groups. Co-expression and co-localization methods were used to search for LncRNA and TUCP target genes, which identified 970/1 538 and 23/27 genes, respectively. Ontology and pathways analysis revealed that the LncRNAs/TUCPs that were highly expressed in the Low-RFI group are mostly concentrated in energy metabolism pathways. For example, LNC_000890 and TUCP_000582 might regulate liver tissue metabolic efficiency. The LncRNAs/TUCPs that were highly expressed in the High-RFI group are mostly enriched in immune function pathways. For example, TUCP_000832 might regulate animal health, thereby affecting feed efficiency. Subsequently, a co-expression network was established by applying the expression information of both the differentially expressed LncRNAs and TUCPs and their target mRNAs. The network indicated that differentially expressed genes targeted by the upregulated LncRNAs and TUCPs were mainly related to energy metabolism, while those genes targeted by the downregulated LncRNAs and TUCPs were mainly related to immune response. These results provide the basis for further study of LncRNA/TUCP-mediated regulation of feed efficiency.

[Impact of heterotopic ossification after single-level cervical disc replacement on adjacent segment]

Objective: To investigate the impact of heterotopic ossification (HO) after cervical disc replacement (CDR) on clinical outcome and radiological outcome of adjacent segment. Methods: The data of patients underwent single-level Prestige-LP CDR between January 2008 and March 2014 in West China Hospital with a minimum 36 months of follow-up were retrospectively analyzed in this study. The incidence of HO, whether it affected clinical outcome, and its impact on adjacent segment intervertebral disc height (IDH), range of motion (ROM) and adjacent segment degeneration were observed. The data were compared with independent sample t test between the two groups. Results: Ninety-two patients were included in this study, including 48 males and 44 females, the mean age was (44±8) years, and the mean follow-up was (62±23) months. At the final follow-up, 34 patients developed HO after CDR, but the incidence of Grade 4 HO was 7.6%. In both of the HO and non-HO groups, clinical outcomes at the final follow-up were all significantly improved when compared to those before the operation. And there was no significant differences in any clinical indexes between the HO and non-HO groups. The adjacent segment IDH before operation and at the final follow-up in the HO group and non-HO group were similar(t=0.596, 0.825 and t=0.877, 0.644, all P>0.05). The preoperative adjacent segment ROM of HO group was similar with that in non-HO group(t=0.056, 0.709, both P>0.05), but the adjacent segment ROM in HO group was higher than that in the non-HO group at the final follow-up (upper adjacent segment: 10.0°±2.0° vs 9.0°±1.3°; lower adjacent segment: 10.2°±1.9° vs 8.8°±1.3°, t=2.824, 4.022, both P<0.05). The incidence of adjacent segment degeneration of HO group was higher than that of non-HO group at the final follow-up(41.2% vs 19.0%, χ(2)=5.343, P<0.05). Conclusions: HO is a common phenomenon in the long-term follow-up after the CDR operation with Prestige LP prosthesis, but HO does not affect the improvement of clinical outcome. HO after CDR might be one of important risk factors accelerating adjacent segment degeneration.

[Follow-up study of 116 cases of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in the treatment of cirrhotic portal hypertension]

Objective: To investigate the incidence rate of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) complications in the treatment of cirrhotic portal hypertension, and analyze the cause of complication to management methods. Methods: Data of 116 patients obtained from Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University were retrospectively analyzed. Portal venous pressure, routine blood test, coagulation test, liver and kidney function test, ammonia blood test, imaging and endoscopy reports were collected before and after procedure. The incidence rate of hepatic encephalopathy, gastrointestinal bleeding, ascites and shunt dysfunctions were observed. Data were expressed as mean ± Standard deviation and analyzed by t-test. A chi-squared test was used for comparison between categorical variables. Results: The success rate of TIPS operation was 97.41% (113/116). Two patients underwent prompt TIPS procedure due to active bleeding. Bleeding was successfully stopped. Portal venous pressure of 113 patients decreased from (42.73 ± 7.64) cmH(2)O to (24.92 ± 7.60) cmH(2)O, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.01). Twenty cases were of hepatic encephalopathy. Preoperative level of Child-pugh class C patients was more susceptible to hepatic encephalopathy within 3 months after procedure than class A and B. After TIPS procedure, there were 22 cases of gastrointestinal bleeding, 18 cases of shunt dysfunctions and 26 cases of disease related death. Conclusion: Rational patient selection strategies can effectively reduce portal venous pressure, incidence of hepatic encephalopathy, improve mid-and long-term therapeutic effects, and provide opportunities for liver transplantation.

Prediction of morbidity following cytoreductive surgery for metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumour in patients on tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy

BACKGROUND

Although cytoreductive surgery has been shown to be beneficial in carefully selected patients with metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs) treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), factors predictive of postoperative morbidity have not been investigated previously.

METHODS

A surgical complexity score for GIST metastasectomy (GM-SCS) composed of patient-related and surgical factors was assigned retrospectively to patients with metastatic GIST treated with TKI therapy and surgery at two institutions between 2002 and 2014. The ability of clinicopathological factors and GM-SCS to predict postoperative morbidity was assessed by means of a multivariable logistic regression model. Postoperative complications were categorized using the Clavien-Dindo classification.

RESULTS

Some 400 operations on 323 patients with metastatic GIST on TKIs were included. Complications were observed following 110 operations (27·5 per cent) including 70 major complications (grade III-V) (17·5 per cent of 400 operations). Patients were divided into low (5 points or less; 100 patients, 25·0 per cent), intermediate (6-9 points; 191, 47·8 per cent) and high (at least 10 points; 109, 27·3 per cent) complexity scoring groups based on the GM-SCS. An intermediate (odds ratio (OR) 2·88; P = 0·008) and high (OR 5·40; P < 0·001) GM-SCS were independent predictors of overall complications, whereas only a high GM-SCS was independently predictive of a major complication (OR 3·65; P = 0·018). Metastatic mitotic index was also an independent predictor of overall complications (OR 2·55; P = 0·047). GM-SCS did not predict progression-free or overall survival.

CONCLUSION

A gastrointestinal stromal tumour metastastectomy surgical complexity score can predict morbidity, which may help in preoperative risk stratification and optimal treatment planning.

Growth performance, rumen fermentation, bacteria composition, and gene expressions involved in intracellular pH regulation of rumen epithelium in finishing Hu lambs differing in residual feed intake phenotype

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of residual feed intake (RFI) on rumen function in finishing lambs. A total of 60 male Hu lambs (average initial BW = 25.2 ± 2.5kg) were used and were offered a pelleted high-concentrate diet, of which the forage to concentrate ratio was 25:75. Individual feed intake was recorded over a period of 42 d, then 10 lambs with the lowest RFI and the highest RFI were selected, respectively. The rumen fluid used for fermentation variables and relative abundance of bacteria measurement was obtained on d 10 and 20 after RFI measurement. At the end of this experiment, the selected lambs were slaughtered and rumen epithelium and liver tissues were collected for RNA extraction. Low-RFI lambs had lower ( < 0.01) DMI and greater ( < 0.05) G:F than the high-RFI ones, while the RFI groups did not differ in ADG and BW ( > 0.05). Additionally, RFI was positively ( = 0.57; < 0.01) correlated with DMI and negatively ( = -0.53; < 0.05) correlated with G:F. Total VFA and individual VFA decreased ( < 0.05) over time. The concentrations of total VFA, acetate, valerate, isobutyrate, isovalerate, and rumen pH ( > 0.05) were not affected by RFI classification. Nonetheless, low-RFI group lambs had a greater ( < 0.05) concentration of propionate, a lower ( < 0.05) concentration of butyrate, and a lower ( < 0.05) acetate to propionate ratio compared with the high-RFI group. There was a significant ( < 0.05) effect of RFI on the relative abundance of and . The relative abundance of , , and decreased ( < 0.05) over time in high-RFI group. And the relative abundance of in high-RFI group was greater ( < 0.05) than its low-RFI counterpart. Furthermore, RFI had no effect ( > 0.05) on gene expression associated with intracellular pH regulation (, , , , , , , and ) in rumen epithelium and β-hydroxybutyrate metabolism () in both rumen epithelium and liver tissues. In conclusion, even though low-RFI lambs had lower DMI, however, the number of was lower. Additionally, there was no difference in gene expressions level associated with intracellular pH regulation in rumen epithelium between RFI groups.

Synthesis and Characterization of SiO2@Y2MoO6:Eu3+ Core-Shell Structured Spherical Phosphors by Sol-Gel Process

SiO2@Y2MoO6:Eu3+ core-shell phosphors were prepared by the sol-gel process. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectra (EDS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), photoluminescence (PL) spectra as well as kinetic decays were used to characterize the resulting SiO2@Y2MoO6:Eu3+ core-shell phosphors. The XRD results demonstrated that the Y2MoO6:Eu3+ layers on the SiO2 spheres crystallized after being annealed at 700 °C and the crystallinity increased with raising the annealing temperature. The obtained core-shell phosphors have spherical shape with narrow size distribution (average size ca. 640 nm), non-agglomeration, and smooth surface. The thickness of the Y2MoO6:Eu3+ shells on the SiO2 cores could be easily tailored by varying the number of deposition cycles (70 nm for four deposition cycles). The Eul+ shows a strong PL emission (dominated by 5D0-7F2 red emission at 614 nm) under the excitation of 347 nm UV light. The PL intensity of Eu3+ increases with increasing the annealing temperature and the number of coating cycles.

Microstructures and superconducting properties of high performance MgB2 thin films deposited from a high-purity, dense Mg-B target

High quality, c-axis oriented, MgB₂ thin films were successfully grown on 6H-SiC substrates using pulsed laser deposition (PLD) with subsequent in situ annealing. To obtain high purity films free from oxygen contamination, a dense Mg-B target was specially made from a high temperature, high pressure reaction of Mg and B to form large-grained (10~50 µm) MgB₂. Microstructural analysis via electron microscopy found that the resulting grains of the film were composed of ultrafine columnar grains of 19-30 nm. XRD analysis showed the MgB₂ films to be c-axis oriented; the a-axis and c-axis lattice parameters were determined to be 3.073 ± 0.005 Å and 3.528 ± 0.010 Å, respectively. The superconducting critical temperature, T_c,onset , increased monotonically as the annealing temperature was increased, varying from 25.2 K to 33.7 K. The superconducting critical current density as determined from magnetic measurements, J_cm , at 5 K, was 10⁵ A/cm² at 7.8 T; at 20 K, 10⁵ A/cm² was reached at 3.1 T. The transport and pinning properties of these films were compared to "powder-in-tube" (PIT) and "internal-infiltration" (AIMI) processed wires. Additionally, examination of the pinning mechanism showed that when scaled to the peak in the pinning curve, the films follow the grain boundary, or surface, pinning mechanism quite well, and are similar to the response seen for C doped PIT and AIMI strands, in contrast to the behavior seen in undoped PIT wires, in which deviations are seen at high b (b = B/B_c2 ). On the other hand, the magnitude of the pinning force was similar for the thin films and AIMI conductors, unlike the values from connectivity-suppressed PIT strands.

Kinetic analysis of MgB2 layer formation in advanced internal magnesium infiltration (AIMI) processed MgB2 wires

Significantly enhanced critical current density (J_c) for MgB₂ superconducting wires can be obtained following the advanced internal Mg infiltration (AIMI) route. But unless suitable precautions are taken, the AIMI-processed MgB₂ wires will exhibit incomplete MgB₂ layer formation, i.e. reduced superconductor core size and hence suppressed current-carrying capability. Microstructural characterization of AIMI MgB₂ wires before and after the heat treatment reveals that the reaction mechanism changes from a "Mg infiltration-reaction" at the beginning of the heat treatment to a "Mg diffusion-reaction" once a dense MgB₂ layer is formed. A drastic drop in the Mg transport rate from infiltration to diffusion causes the termination of the MgB₂ core growth. To quantify this process, a two-stage kinetic model is built to describe the MgB₂ layer formation and growth. The derived kinetic model and the associated experimental observations indicate that fully reacted AIMI-processed MgB₂ wires can be achieved following the optimization of B particle size, B powder packing density, MgB₂ reaction activation energy and its response to the additions of dopants.

Application of tissue-engineered cartilage with BMP-7 gene to repair knee joint cartilage injury in rabbits

Injured articular cartilage has a poor capacity for spontaneous healing. So far, satisfactory solution to this subsistent problem has not been found, but transgenic therapy may be a promising way. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a tissue-engineered cartilage that was transfected with morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP 7) in repairing the cartilaginous defects of rabbit knee joints. Chondrocytes were transfected with BMP-7 gene (5 x 10(6) cells/ml), inoculated into the collagen-fibrin gel scaffolds, and cultured for 14 days. Then, the scaffolds were implanted onto the created defects (5.0 mm in diameter) in rabbits' knee joints. After 12 weeks, the rabbits were sacrificed and histological sections were evaluated using modified O'Driscoll cartilage scores; In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry were performed to detect the expression of BMP-7 mRNA and BMP-7 at the implanted site while the content of DNA and GAG was determined as well. A better quality of repairs was observed at the 12th week after implantation when compared to the control group using histological analyses. The content of DNA and specific secretion of GAG in the treatment group is statistically significant different compared with the control group. Gene therapy may be a promising treatment method, but the novel therapy approach needs further studies with respect to a longer follow-up period.

Antioxidant defenses of mycorrhizal fungus infection against SO(2)-induced oxidative stress in Avena nuda seedlings

Colonization of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi Glomus mosseae increased Avena nuda seedling tolerance to SO(2) exposure, as indicated by elevated total plant biomass and ameliorative photosynthetic rate, when compared to the non-mycorrhizal plants. This is associated with an improved antioxidant capacity as shown by enhanced superoxide dismutase and catalase activity, increased ascorbic acid and glutathione content, and reduced malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide level in the mycorrhizal plants relative to the non-mycorrhizal plants under SO(2) exposure. The mycorrhizal fungi colonization had no effect on the stomatal conductance. To our knowledge, this is the first finding of this sort.

In situ synthesis and characterization of GaN nanorods through thermal decomposition of pre-grown GaN films

Herein we describe a thermal treatment route to synthesize gallium nitride (GaN) nanorods. In this method, GaN nanorods were synthesized by thermal treatment of GaN films at a temperature of 800 °C. The morphology and structure of GaN nanorods were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results show that GaN nanorods have a hexagonal wurtzite structure with diameters ranging from 30 to 50 nm. Additionally, GaN nanoplates are also founded in the products. The growth process of GaN nanostructures was investigated and a thermal decomposition mechanism was proposed. Our method provides a cost-effective route to fabricate GaN nanorods, which will benefit the fabrication of one-dimensional nanomaterials and device applications.

Dielectric analysis of the APG/n-butanol/cyclohexane/water nonionic microemulsions

The nonionic APG/n-butanol/cyclohexane/water microemulsions with different microstructure, which is induced by the variation of water contents, are investigated by the dielectric spectroscopy. An appropriate dielectric theory, Hanai theory and the corresponding analytical method are applied to obtain the internal properties of the constituent phases of microemulsions, such as the relative permittivity and conductivity of continuous and dispersed phases and the volume fraction of dispersed phase. Using these parameters, the distribution of n-butanol in constituent phases, which is of important in the study field of the microstructure of microemulsion, is obtained quantitatively. It is found that the n-butanol molecules not only distribute in the interfacial APG layer but also in the continuous and dispersed phases. In addition, the percolation threshold is interpreted by using the dynamic percolation model. The structural and dynamic information are obtained, for instance, the critical volume fraction of water when percolation occurs and the characteristic time for the rearrangement of clusters. These parameters are intimately related to the properties of microemulsions, especially the characteristics of the interfacial layer.

Sol-gel fabrication and photoluminescence properties of SiO2 @ Gd2O3:Eu3+ core-shell particles

A uniform nanolayer of europium-doped Gd2O3 was coated on the surface of preformed submicron silica spheres by a Pechini sol-gel process. The resulted SiO2 @ Gd2O3:Eu3+ core-shell structured phosphors were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), photoluminescence (PL) spectra as well as kinetic decays. The XRD results show that the Gd2O3:Eu3+ layers start to crystallize on the SiO2 spheres after annealing at 400 degrees C and the crystallinity increases with raising the annealing temperature. The core-shell phosphors possess perfect spherical shape with narrow size distribution (average size: 640 nm) and non-agglomeration. The thickness of the Gd2O3:Eu3+ shells on the SiO2 cores can be adjusted by changing the deposition cycles (70 nm for three deposition cycles). Under short UV excitation, the obtained SiO2@Gd2O3:Eu3+ particles show a strong red emission with 5D0-7F2 (610 nm) of Eu3+ as the most prominent group. The PL intensity of Eu3+ increases with increasing the annealing temperature and the number of coating cycles.

The role of adrenomedullin and its receptor system in cardiovascular calcification of rat induced by Vitamin D(3) plus nicotine

Adrenomedullin (ADM) is a potent vasodilatory peptide which regulates blood pressure, cell growth and bone formation. Our work was aimed to explore the production of ADM, changes and pathophysiological significance of ADM mRNA and ADM receptor components--calcitonin receptor like receptor (CRLR) and receptor activity modifying proteins (RAMPs) mRNA in calcified myocardium and aorta of rats induced by Vitamin D3 plus nicotine. Contents of ADM in plasma, myocardium and aorta were measured by radioimmunoassay (RIA). The amount of ADM, CRLR and RAMPs mRNA was determined by semi-quantitative RT-PCR. The calcium content and alkaline phosphatase activity in myocardium and aorta of rats were measured. The results showed that the contents of calcium in calcified myocardium and aorta were increased by 3.5- and 6-fold (all P < 0.01), respectively, and alkaline phosphatases activity in calcified myocardium and aorta were increased by 66.5 and 82.7% (all P < 0.01 ), respectively, compared with control. Contents of ADM in plasma, myocardium and aorta were increased by 58% (P < 0.01), 14.3% (P < 0.01) and 27.8% P < 0.05). Furthermore, it was found that the amount of ADM, CRLR and RAMP2 mRNA in calcified myocardium was elevated by 90.6, 157.5 and 119.6% (all P < 0.01), RAMP3 mRNA was decreased by 14.1% (P < 0.01), respectively, compared with control. The amount of ADM, CRLR, RAMP2 and RAMP3 mRNA in calcified aorta was elevated by 37.7% (P < 0.01), 41.4% (P < 0.01), 60.1% (P < 0.05) and 13% P < 0.01), respectively, compared with control. The elevated level of CRLR and RAMP2 mRNA were in positive correlation with that of ADM mRNA (r = 0.992 and 0.882, respectively, P < 0.01) in calcified myocardium. The elevated level of CRLR and RAMP3 mRNA were also in positive correlation with that of ADM mRNA (r = 0.727, P < 0.05 and 0.816, P < 0.01, respectively) in calcified aorta. These results demonstrated that calcified myocardium and aorta generated an increased amount of ADM, up-regulated gene expressions of ADM, CRLR and RAMP2 mRNA. While the alteration of RAMP3 mRNA in calcified myocardium and aorta was different. These suggested that ADM and its receptor system might involve in the regulation of calcification in heart and aorta.

Osmotic sensitivity of taurine release from hippocampal neuronal and glial cells

Taurine transport is important for volume regulation of cultured neurons and astroglial cells. Both cell types utilize similar mechanisms for taurine accumulation and efflux. However, taurine lost from cerebellar Purkinje cells in vivo is accumulated by adjacent astrocytes during hypoosmotic hyponatremia. To examine mechanisms for transfer of taurine between cell types, we measured relative sensitivities of taurine loss from cultured neurons and astrocytes. Primary cultures of hippocampal neurons and astrocytes were grown from embryonic and neonatal rat brain, respectively. Neurons were used after 10-14 days in culture. Astrocytes were used after 14 days in culture and were grown in the same culture medium used for neurons for 3 days prior to experimentation. Cells were incubated at 37 degrees C for 30 min in isoosmotic (290 mOsm) phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). The PBS was then changed to fresh isoosmotic or to hypoosmotic PBS (270 mOsm or 250 mOsm), made by reducing the NaCl concentration. Cell volume and taurine content were determined immediately before hypoosmotic exposure or 3, 15, or 30 min later. In isoosmotic PBS, astrocytes contained 162 +/- 18 nmol taurine/mg protein (mean +/- SEM), equivalent to an intracellular concentration of 30.2 +/- 2.1 mM. No taurine loss was detectable after 3 or 15 min in either hypoosmotic PBS, but after 30 min in 270 or 250 mOsm PBS, astrocyte taurine was reduced by 8.0% or 22.2%, respectively. Neurons initially contained 114 +/- 13 nmol taurine/mg protein, equivalent to an intracellular taurine concentration of 22.2 +/- 2.5 mM. After 3 min of exposure to 270 or 250 mOsm PBS, the cells had lost 17 +/- 5% or 25 +/- 4% of their taurine content, respectively. Cell volumes of each cell type were similarly affected by hypoosmotic exposure. We conclude that taurine loss from cultured hippocampal neurons is more sensitive to osmotic swelling than taurine loss from cultured hippocampal astrocytes. This characteristic, if present in cells of the hippocampus in vivo, could lead to net transfer of taurine from neurons to glial cells during pathological conditions which cause cell swelling.

[Formation of the allogeneic tissue engineered cartilage using injectable biomaterial]

OBJECTIVE

To study the feasibility of the formation of allogeneic tissue-engineered cartilage of certain shape in immunocompetent animal using the injectable biomaterial.

METHODS

Fresh newborn rabbits' articular cartilages were obtained under sterile condition (< 6 hours after death) and incubated in the sterile 0.3% type II collagenase solution. After digestion of 8 to 12 hours, the solution was filtered through a 150 micron nylon mesh and centrifuged, then the chondrocytes were washed twice with phosphate buffered saline (PBS) and mixed with the biomaterial to create a final cell density of 5 x 10(7)/ml. The cell-biomaterial admixture was injected into rabbits subcutaneously 0.3 ml each point while we drew the needle back in order to form the neocartilage in the shape of cudgel, and the control groups were injected with only the biomaterial or the suspension of chondrocytes with the density of 5 x 10(7)/ml. After 4, 6, 8 and 12 weeks, the neocartilages were harvested to analyze.

RESULTS

The new nodes could be touched subcutaneously after 2 weeks. In the sections of the samples harvested after 4 weeks, it was found that the matrix secreted and the collagen formed. After 6 weeks and later than that, the neocartilages were mature and the biomaterial was almost completely degraded. The cudgel-shaped samples of neocartilage could be formed by injection. In the experiment group, there was no obvious immune rejection response. On the contrary, there were no neocartilage formed in the control group.

CONCLUSION

The injectable biomaterial is a relatively ideal biomaterial for tissue engineering, and it is feasible to form allogeneic tissue engineered cartilage of certain shape by injection in an immunocompetent animal.

[Esterification of octanoic acid with 1-octanol catalyzed by lipase in W/O microemulsions and in microemulsion-based organogels]

The esterification reactions of octanoic acid with 1-octanol catalyzed by Candida lypolytical (CL) lipase was studied in water-in-oil microemulsions formed by water/bis-(2-ethylhexyl)sulfosuccinate sodium (AOT)/isooctane. The results of kinetic study showed that the reaction follows a Ping-Pong Bi-Bi mechanism. The values of apparent kinetic parameters were determined. Lipase has also been immobilized in gelatin-containing AOT microemulsion-based organogels (MBGs) for retention of catalytic activity. These lipase-containing MBGs proved to be a solid-phase catalysts for use in apolar organic solvents, retaining its higher activity after many runs of esterification reactions.

[Experimental study on repair of cricoid cartilage defect with cartilage grafts in rabbits]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of free cartilage fragment in repair of cricoid cartilage defect.

METHOD

One-third of cricoid cartilage was cut and repaired with free thyroid cartilage fragment and pedicled cartilage in rabbits. The pathological changes of the cartilages were observed.

RESULT

1. The free thyroid cartilage fragments were absorbed in two months, and were replaced by scars. 2. The pedicled cartilage fragments were not absorbed and healed with the cricoid cartilage. 3. No evidence of growth impairment of surgery-induced cricoid cartilage was observed.

CONCLUSION

In rabbits, both free cartilage fragments and pedicled cartilage fragments could repair the defect of cricoid cartilage effectively.

Inhibitory effects of cyproheptadine on pituitary-thyroid axis and pancreatic beta cells in rats

AIM

To study the influences of cyproheptadine (Cyp) on the endocrine functions of pituitary-thyroid axis and pancreatic beta cells in rats.

METHODS

The effects of Cyp on functions of pituitary-thyroid axis and pancreatic beta cells were observed by radioimmunoassay, biochemical analysis, and electron microscope.

RESULTS

Cyp 2.3 mg.kg-1 ig for 10 d decreased serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) from control groups (5.3 +/- 0.9) to (4.2 +/- 0.9) mU.L-1 and insulin levels from (64 +/- 8) to (50 +/- 9) kIU.L-1 (P < 0.05 and 0.01). Cyp 4.6 mg.kg-1 decreased serum TSH (3.8 +/- 0.5) mU.L-1, T3 (1.2 +/- 0.2) mmol.L-1, T4 (62 +/- 7) mmol.L-1, and insulin levels (42 +/- 8) kIU.L-1 decreased (P < 0.05 or 0.01). The retrograde changes of ultrastructure of pituitary TSH cells and pancreatic beta cells.

CONCLUSION

Cyp has an inhibiting action on endocrine functions of pituitary-thyroid axis and pancreatic beta cells in rats.

Increased potassium, chloride, and taurine conductances in astrocytes during hypoosmotic swelling

Membrane conductances during hypoosmotic swelling were characterized in rat astrocytes in primary tissue culture. Using whole cell patch clamp techniques, mean +/- SEM cell conductance in isoosmotic phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) was 55.6 +/- 5.8 pS/pF. Cell conductance (mean +/- SEM) increased from this initial value to 187 +/- 46%, 561 +/- 188%, and 1216 +/- 376% within 9 min of exposure to 220 mOsm, 190 mOsm, and 145 mOsm PBS, respectively. With each of these hypoosmotic exposures, no change occurred in membrane capacitance. When CsCl replaced KCl in the microelectrode solution, a similar conductance increase was obtained at each osmolality. However, when gluconate salts were used in place of chloride salts in the electrode solution, no significant conductance increase was observed with 190 mOsm PBS. With a KCl microelectrode solution, all conductance increase which occurred in 190 mOsm PBS was inhibited by 200 microM niflumic acid, but not by 5 mM BaCl(2). Both niflumic acid and BaCl(2) inhibited 60-80% of the conductance increase of cells in 145 mOsm PBS. Using a microelectrode solution containing taurine as the major anion, membrane conductance increased 5-fold when cells were placed in 250 mOsm medium. This conductance increase was completely inhibited by 200 microM niflumic acid. Thus, independent chloride and potassium conductances are activated by hypoosmotic swelling of cultured astrocytes while plasma membrane area is unaltered. The chloride conductance pathway is activated at a significantly lower degree of hypoosmotic exposure than that which activates the potassium pathway and may be permeable to anionic taurine. These conductance pathways may mediate diffusive loss of potassium, chloride, and taurine from these cells during volume regulation following hypoosmotic swelling.

Zero-gap directional coupler switch integrated into a silicon-on insulator for 1.3-microm operation

A silicon-on insulator (SOI) zero-gap directional coupler switch is studied based on the large-cross-section singlemode rib waveguide condition, the dual-mode interference principle, and the free-carrier plasma dispersion effect, in which the SOI technique uses silicon and silicon dioxide thermal bonding and backpolishing. The SOI is fabricated by potassium hydroxide anisotropic etching. Its insertion loss and cross talk are measured to be less than 4.81 dB and 218.6 dB, respectively, at a wavelength of 1.3 microm and a switching voltage of 0.91 V. Response time is ~210 ns.

Dysregulation of IL-10 production with aging: possible linkage to the age-associated decline in DHEA and its sulfated derivative

Peripheral lymphoid cells isolated from the spleens and peritoneal cavities of aged mice were found to constitutively secrete the multifunctional cytokine interleukin (IL)-10 when cultured in vitro. B-Lymphocytes were implicated as the cell type responsible. Abnormal expression of this cytokine was also detected in vivo because high levels of mRNA for IL-10 were present in splenocytes freshly isolated from aged animals. In addition to the spontaneous secretion of IL-10, lymphoid cells from aged donors were hyperresponsive to exogenous stimulation with endotoxin, producing exaggerated quantities of both IL-10 and IL-6 in culture. Treatment of aged animals with dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), a natural steroid, reversed the age-associated alterations in cytokine production, rendering the treated mice quite similar to mature adult controls. DHEAS treatment of aged mice also resulted in a lowering in the number of B1 cells present in the peritoneal cavity and also reduced the titers of circulating autoantibodies specific for phosphatidylcholine (PtC). Based on its wide range of biologic activities, a dysregulation in the mechanisms that control IL-10 production could be a major contributor to immunosenescence. The ability of DHEAS treatment to restore normal control over the expression of IL-10 may explain how this steroid enhances immunocompetence in aged animals.

Laser-induced fluorescence of Ba+ ions trapped and mass-selected in a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer

We present the design and preliminary results from a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (ICR) mass spectrometer developed for the direct detection of UV/visible laser-induced fluorescence of trapped, mass-selected, gas-phase ions. A 3 T superconducting magnet and an open-ended multi-section cylindrical Penning trap capture and confine ions created by electron impact or laser desorption. Azimuthal quadrupolar excitation in the presence of ion/neutral collisions cools, axializes and mass selects ions as they fill the trap. A pulsed dye laser pumped by an Nd:YAG laser provides electronic energy excitation. A Brewster window and baffles on each side of the vacuum chamber reduce the scattered light from the excitation laser. Laser-induced fluorescence is collected from mirrors and lenses and directed through a quartz window and fiber-optic bundle to a photomultiplier. The ICR and optical events are controlled by a modular ICR data station and GPIB and RS-232 interfaces. An excitation spectrum is demonstrated for atomic Ba+ ions, and should extend to laser-induced fluorescence of virtually any stable positive or negative gas-phase ions of arbitrary molecular weight: molecular or quasimolecular ions, fragment ions, adduct ions, and ions formed from ion/molecule reactions.

[Clinical and experimental studies on tiaoshen liquor for infantile hyperkinetic syndrome]

One hundred children with hyperkinetic syndrome were treated by using Tiaoshen Liquor (TL) consisted of Chinese herbal drugs. After the treatment, the behavior grading lowered greatly, their attention was improved, and their academic records raised. The total effective rate reached 94%. The results of the animal experiments showed that TL could reduce the spontaneous activities of the healthy mice, thus lowering remarkably the spontaneous activities in the mice with hyperkinetic behavior caused by taking scopolamine; reinforce the learning memory in the healthy mice; and improve in different degrees the learning memory of the mice with dysmnesia caused by administering scopolamine, sodium nitrite and alcohol respectively, which indicate that the therapeutic mechanism of TL for this syndrome was probably related to the improvement of information transfer function of the cholinergic neuron synapses of central nervous system and to the enhancement of hypoxia tolerence of the cerebral tissues.

Effects of MK-447 on thrombin-induced aggregation, secretion of ATP, and [Ca2+]i mobilization in rabbit platelets

AIM

To study the effects of MK-447 on aggregation release reaction and intracellular calcium mobilization by thrombin.

METHODS

Aggregation and release reaction were assessed by light transmission and ATP content in rabbit citrate platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and cytosolic-free calcium was measured by fluorescence and imaging.

RESULTS

MK-447 (2-aminomethyl-4-t-butyl-6-iodophenol hydrochloride) induced a decrease in light transmission (DLT), so called platelet shape change, without detectable aggregation and secretion of ATP, and increased intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) slightly in washed single platelet loaded with Fura 2, the peak value being about 160 nmol.L-1. These effects were not inhibited by egtazic acid 3 mmol.L-1 or indometacin 3 mumol.L-1. The pretreatment of PRP with MK-447 700 mumol.L-1 reduced the DLT by thrombin, potentiated and enhanced thrombin-induced aggregation and secretion of ATP in a concentration-dependent manner. Thrombin-induced [Ca2+]i mobilization (peak value: 369 +/- 45 nmol.L-1) was further enhanced by the administration of MK-447 at 2 min before the addition of thrombin, and the peak value reached 623 +/- 121 nmol.L-1 (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

MK-447-induced platelet shape change was involved in intracellular calcium release in this preparation. MK-447 enhanced thrombin-induced aggregation and release reaction and these effects of MK-447 on aggregation and release reaction by thrombin might result from the synergistic effect of intracellular calcium mobilization.

[Clinical observation on treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes with yisuikang]

20 cases of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients were treated with Yisuikang (YSK) including MDS-RA 17 cases, MDS-RAEB 2 cases, MDS-RAEB-T 1 case. 14 patients were treated with YSK only, 6 cases were treated with both YSK and Western medicine. The result showed that 4 cases were remitted, 5 cases markedly improved, 6 cases improved and 5 cases ineffective, the total effective rate was 75.0%. It was found that YSK was effective in the treatment of MDS-RA or Qi-Blood Deficiency and Yu-Re Syndrome in TCM, while any other types were ineffective. They also found that types of TCM might be correlated with MDS.

Altered regulation of IL-6 production with normal aging. Possible linkage to the age-associated decline in dehydroepiandrosterone and its sulfated derivative

Normal aging in humans has been recently shown to be accompanied by reduced control over production of the multifunctional cytokine IL-6. This cytokine was reported to be quantitatively elevated in most serum samples obtained from "normal" elderly humans. In the present investigation, we report that IL-6 levels are elevated in serum samples obtained from aged mice, and its spontaneous production could also be easily detected in culture supernatants of unstimulated lymphoid cells obtained from aged, but not mature, adult donors. Spontaneous production of IL-6 was consistently observed in culture supernatants of lymphoid cells from both the spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes from aged donors, but was absent from supernatants derived from their peripheral lymph nodes. In aged mice, the reduced regulation of IL-6 production could be effectively prevented and/or reversed by supplementing aging animals with dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, a steroid hormone whose endogenous production is known to decline with advancing age in all species tested. It was also established that serum obtained from old dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate-treated mice contained lower (normal) levels of serum amyloid P substance (an acute phase reactant), reduced levels of serum Ig (all classes and isotypes) and lower titers of tissue-specific autoantibodies than untreated aged controls. Therefore, a number of well described, age-related conditions, some of which could be contributing to the pathologic phenotype of old age, may actually represent secondary effects to this age-associated change in IL-6 production.

Altered regulation of IL-6 production with normal aging. Possible linkage to the age-associated decline in dehydroepiandrosterone and its sulfated derivative

Normal aging in humans has been recently shown to be accompanied by reduced control over production of the multifunctional cytokine IL-6. This cytokine was reported to be quantitatively elevated in most serum samples obtained from "normal" elderly humans. In the present investigation, we report that IL-6 levels are elevated in serum samples obtained from aged mice, and its spontaneous production could also be easily detected in culture supernatants of unstimulated lymphoid cells obtained from aged, but not mature, adult donors. Spontaneous production of IL-6 was consistently observed in culture supernatants of lymphoid cells from both the spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes from aged donors, but was absent from supernatants derived from their peripheral lymph nodes. In aged mice, the reduced regulation of IL-6 production could be effectively prevented and/or reversed by supplementing aging animals with dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, a steroid hormone whose endogenous production is known to decline with advancing age in all species tested. It was also established that serum obtained from old dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate-treated mice contained lower (normal) levels of serum amyloid P substance (an acute phase reactant), reduced levels of serum Ig (all classes and isotypes) and lower titers of tissue-specific autoantibodies than untreated aged controls. Therefore, a number of well described, age-related conditions, some of which could be contributing to the pathologic phenotype of old age, may actually represent secondary effects to this age-associated change in IL-6 production.

[A quantitative study of the ranges of mandibular movement in normal subjects with the digital sirognathograph (D-SGG)]

This paper is to study the mandibular border movement showing in three different direction observations, mandibular tapping movement showing in two different direction observations and the mandibular movement of two types of foods by using D-SGG which is an accurate and convenient measurement system of mandibular movement tracks. The results are as follows: 1. a normal ranges of the mandibular border movement are made and the variations of the ranges are quite small in normal subjects, no significant difference is found. 2. the variations of mouth opening are greater in tapping movement than in border movement. The distributions of the tracks of tapping movement are about 4.0 mm, but the coefficient of variation is considerable. 3. The quality and quantity of test foods effect the ranges of mouth opening in chewing movement.

Administration of dehydroepiandrosterone to burned mice preserves normal immunologic competence

Burned individuals display a reduced ability to elicit cellular and humoral immune responses and a depression in the vitro production of certain T-cell lymphokines. Treatment of burned mice with 100 micrograms of dehydroepiandrosterone within 1 hour after injury resulted in preserving a completely normal capacity to produce T-cell-derived lymphokines and to generate cellular immune responses. In addition, dehydroepiandrosterone-treated thermally injured mice demonstrated an above-normal ability to resist an induced infection with the intracellular pathogen, Listeria monocytogenes. Dehydroepiandrosterone-treated animals also did not exhibit the sustained plasma levels of interleukin 6 that normally accompany thermal injury and infection. Because of its antiglucocorticoid effects and positive immunoregulatory influences, we believe dehydroepiandrosterone to be a beneficial form of therapy for thermally injured individuals.

[A discussion of jaws relation in complete denture restoration]

We studied jaws relation of 8 edentulous patients after complete denture restoration by using Digital Sirognathograph (D-SGG).The results indicated that the maximum intercuspation occlusion (i.e.CO or MCP) is not commonly coincident with the CRO,and the discrepancy is statistically significant.The CO is anterior to the CRO by 0.72+/-0.39mm,and it may vary significantly in different closures of the same patient. This implies that the termination of the occlusion with neuromusculature is not strictly precise and constant,but alters in a corresponding range.So,it seems reasonable to develop a "freedom of centric" in the range of 0.72+/-0.39mm anterior to the CRO.The physiological functional occlusion,therefore,is restricted to neither of the CO nor the CRO, but is guided between the two.

[The causes of longitudinal fracture of the upper complete denture base]

Laying the strain gauge on the design areas of palatal base and frenum labiorum of complete dentures and simulating the different shapes of notch of frenums by the photoelastic mould. The test of the base condition under static and dynamic load by electrical measurement method was carried out. The longitudinal breaking line on the front part of the palatal base was first observed. The causes of breaking may be due to: the weak effect of notch of frenum labiorum; stress concentration on the front part of the base; material fatigue caused by the repeated alternate force and the strength of base material reduced by unsuitable processing.

Detection of human papilloma virus (HPV) in laryngeal carcinoma tissue

Using alpha-32P-dCTP labelled human papillomavirus type 16 DNA genome probe (cHPV 16 DNA, cloned and identified from a Chinese cervical invasive carcinoma), 3 HPV 16 genomic relative sequences were detected in 6 biopsies of laryngeal carcinoma. The results showed serious HPV infection in laryngeal carcinoma. This indicates that HPV infection may play an important pathogenetic role in cancer development.

Changes in brainstem and cortical auditory potentials during Qi-Gong meditation

"Qi Gong" (QG) is a meditation exercise known for thousands of years in China and has always been widely practiced. It has been claimed to have a variety of healing and other health benefits. To provide an understanding of the effect of QG on brain structures along the whole neural axis from the periphery to the cerebral cortex, we have monitored short-latency auditory brainstem evoked response, middle-latency response, and long-latency cortical auditory evoked potentials, before, during, and after QG. Our results showed that QG caused an enhancement of brainstem auditory evoked response with a concomitant depression of cortical responses. These observations may be related to the healing and other health benefits of QG.

Imaging diagnostic value of myxoma in cardiac chamber. An analysis of 23 cases

Twenty-three patients with myxoma in the cardiac chamber were analysed from their clinical manifestations and imaging diagnoses. All the patients were confirmed pathologically and 22 of them were further confirmed by operation. In this series, 18 patients had the tumors in the left atria, 3 in the right atria, and 2 in the right ventricles. Diagnosing myxoma by CT and two-dimensional echocardiography was evaluated. The results suggest that to diagnose myxoma in the cardiac chamber, CT is as effective as sonography because it can display clear image, precise location and mobility of the tumor with the flowing blood stream in the cardiac chamber, and provide reliable indications for surgery.

[Protection from anoxic myocardial injury in fetal mouse heart culture by selenium]

Fetal hearts taken from the 17 day pregnant mice were cultured in minimum essential medium (MEM) + 0.5 ug ml of Na2SeO, and in MEM alone with oxygen for 24 h, and then the hearts in groups were exposed to 15, 20, 30, 40 min, 1 h, 3h and long term of anoxia respectively. The results showed that the survival and beating of the cultured fetal mouse hearts with anoxia were prolonged by selenium. Using lanthanum as a marker, we found that after 20 min of anoxia, this electroopaque marker remained extracellular in the selenium-treated hearts, however, intracellular lanthanum could be found in the control hearts, entering selectively into the swelling mitochondria. During the same period of anoxia, ACPase reaction products could be only found in the lysosomes and in the Golgi complex in the selenium-treated hearts, but a lot of reaction products deposited in cytoplasm in the control hearts. By electron microscopy, at 40 min of anoxia, there were swelling of mitochondria, with cristae partially lost and plasma-membrane changed and so on. Generally normal ultrastructure was observed in the selenium-treated hearts at 40 min of anoxia. The cytoplasm was rich in ribosomes and the sarcoplasmic reticulum with a rough face. There events showed that cellular membrane and membrane-bound organelles appeared to be well protected target by the selenium. Therefore, selenium may play an important role in the synthesis of protein.

[Malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) of the maxilla--an analysis of 7 cases]

Malignant fibrous histiocytoma is a rare tumor of the soft tissue or bone, especially if located in the head and neck. Up to the present, only 7 cases have been reported (6 in the mandible and only one in the maxilla). From Mar. 1958 to Mar. 1985, 7 patients with maxillary MFH, proved by pathology, were treated in our hospital. The X-ray manifestations were studied and analysed. The main X-ray characteristics are as follows: A large soft tissue mass in the maxilla, extending into the infratemporal fossa, pterygopalatina fossa, orbit, ethmoid sinuses, nasal cavity and cheek. Marked and extensive destruction of the maxilla with some amorphous reactive ossification. The bone appears like melting ice or ground glass. The value of computerized tomography in differential diagnosis and clinical staging of the maxillary malignant fibrous histiocytoma are discussed.