Posterior open wound healing in immediate implant placement using reactive soft tissue versus absorbable collagen sponge: a retrospective cohort study

The soft and hard tissue healing of open wounds in immediate implant placement are yet to be explored. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of open wound healing using reactive soft tissue (RST) and absorbable collagen sponge (ACS). Forty implants placed immediately in posterior sockets were included; autologous RST was used in 20 and ACS substitute was used in 20. Soft tissue healing was primarily assessed through a novel scoring system and the evaluation of gingival recession. The horizontal bone width (HBW) and interproximal marginal bone level (MBL) were measured on radiographs to observe the hard tissue healing. No significant difference in total soft tissue healing score was observed at 2 weeks postoperatively. Notably, the ACS group showed better tissue colour (P = 0.016) but worse fibrous repair (P = 0.043) scores than the RST group. Gingival recession levels were comparable in the two groups, both before tooth extraction and after placement of the restoration. Regarding hard tissue, HBW and MBL changes showed no intergroup differences. Within the limitations of this study, both RST and ACS seemed effective for open wound closure, achieving ideal soft and hard tissue healing in immediate implant placement.

Stability Strategies and Applications of Iodide Perovskites

Iodide perovskites have demonstrated their unprecedented high efficiency and commercialization potential, and their superior optoelectronic properties, such as high absorption coefficient, high carrier mobility, and narrow direct bandgap, have attracted much attention, especially in solar cells, photodetectors, and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). However, whether it is organic iodide perovskite, organic-inorganic hybrid iodide perovskite or all-inorganic iodide perovskite the stability of these iodide perovskites is still poor and the contamination is high. In recent years, scholars have studied more iodide perovskites to improve their stability as well as optoelectronic properties from various angles. This paper systematically reviews the strategies (component engineering, additive engineering, dimensionality reduction engineering, and phase mixing engineering) used to improve the stability of iodide perovskites and their applications in recent years.

[Predictive value of serum Gal-13, GLP-1 and VEGF levels in adverse pregnancy outcomes of gestational diabetes mellitus]

To explore the application value of serum Gal-13, GLP-1 and VEGF in the prevention and guidance of adverse pregnancy outcomes in gestational diabetes (GDM). A retrospective study with case-control method was used to select 1 012 GDM patients from Haikou Maternal and Child Health Hospital from January 2019 to December 2022 as the study objects, and they were divided into poor pregnancy outcome group (n=342) and good pregnancy outcome group (n=670) according to whether they had adverse pregnancy outcomes. The medical records of 521 healthy women with normal glucose metabolism were selected as the control group. Serum Gal-13 and GLP-1 were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and VEGF was determined by IAMMGE specific protein analyzer. After comparing the differences of the above factors among the three groups, multivariate logistic regression model was used to analyze the influencing factors of adverse pregnancy outcomes in GDM patients, and ROC curve was drawn to analyze the predictive value of serum Gal-13, GLP-1 and VEGF levels on adverse pregnancy outcomes in GDM patients. The results showed that Fasting blood glucose (FPG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting insulin (FINS) in the adverse pregnancy outcome group were 5.92(4.98, 6.41) mmol/L, 5.32(4.96, 5.47)%, 62.56(49.21,99.50) pmol/L, VEGF was 495.47(389.14, 567.13) ng/L, TSH was 1.48(1.34, 1.58) mIU/L, right ventricular myocardial work index (Tei index) was 0.59(0.45, 0.67), 89 cases of elderly parturients; FPG was 4.45(4.16, 5.03) mmol/L, HbA1c was 5.04(4.86, 5.29)%, FINS was 57.41(46.90, 74.08) pmol/L, VEGF was 405.84(348.02, 462.68) ng/L, TSH was 1.42(1.25, 1.50) mIU/L, Tei index was 0.50(0.47, 0.64), there were 142 cases of old women. In the control group, FPG was 4.33(4.05, 4.75) mmol/L, HbA1c was 5.01(4.13, 5.18)%, FINS was 38.48(36.76, 41.72) pmol/L and VEGF was 302.45(283.14, 336.56) ng/L, TSH was 1.32(1.24, 1.47)mIU/L, Tei index was 0.48(0.39, 0.59), and there were 106 elderly parturiencies. The levels of FPG, HbA1c, FINS, VEGF, TSH and Tei index in the adverse pregnancy outcome group and the good pregnancy outcome group were higher than those in the control group, and the proportion of elderly parturients was higher than that in the control group, and the adverse pregnancy outcome group was higher than that in the good pregnancy outcome group. The differences were statistically significant (H=8.620, P<0.001, H=2.616, P=0.014, H=6.156, P<0.001, H=3.051, P<0.001, H=4.892, P=0.044, χ2=2.548, P=0.045). In the adverse pregnancy outcome group, Gal-13 was 15.27(8.35, 24.45)pg/ml, GLP-1 was 9.27(8.26, 12.35) pmol/L and FT4 was 11.59(9.67, 13.48) pmol/L. In the group with good pregnancy outcome, Gal-13 was 25.34(20.14, 29.73) pg/ml, GLP-1 was 12.38(10.25, 15.63) pmol/L and FT4 was 13.86(10.67, 15.10) pmol/L. In the control group, Gal-13 was 31.21(27.48, 34.45) pg/ml, GLP-1 was 11.34(10.40, 14.37) pmol/L and FT4 was 14.15(10.75, 15.43)pmol/L. The levels of Gal-13, GLP-1 and FT4 in the adverse pregnancy outcome group and the good pregnancy outcome group were significantly lower than those in the control group, and the adverse pregnancy outcome group was lower than that in the good pregnancy outcome group. The differences were statistically significant (H=6.458, P=0.011, H=8.445, P<0.001, H=5.694, P<0.001). The levels of Gal-13 and GLP-1 in normal blood glucose recovery group were higher than those in non-normal blood glucose recovery group, and the levels of VEGF were lower than those in non-normal blood glucose recovery group (P<0.05).In multivariate logistic regression analysis, Gal-13, GLP-1, VEGF, TSH, FT4 and Tei indexes were independent influencing factors for adverse pregnancy outcomes with GDM (P<0.05). ROC curve analysis showed that the AUC of Gal-13, GLP-1 and VEGF alone in predicting adverse pregnancy were 0.779, 0.761 and 0.615, respectively. The value of the combined diagnosis was the highest (AUC=0.912), the sensitivity was 90.1%, and the specificity was 80.0%. In conclusion, Gal-13, GLP-1 and VEGF may be independent influencing factors for adverse pregnancy outcomes in GDM patients, and the combined detection of the three may help to improve the auxiliary diagnostic efficacy for predicting adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Synthesis of F-doped materials and applications in catalysis and rechargeable batteries

Elemental doping is one of the most essential techniques for material modification. It is well known that fluorine is considered to be a highly efficient and inexpensive dopant in the field of materials. Fluorine is one of the most reactive elements with the highest electronegativity (χ = 3.98). Compared to cationic doping, anionic doping is another valuable method for improving the properties of materials. Many materials have physicochemical limitations that affect their practical application in the field of catalysis and rechargeable ion batteries. Many researchers have demonstrated that F-doping can significantly improve the performance of materials for practical applications. This paper reviews the applications of various F-doped materials in photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, lithium-ion batteries, and sodium-ion batteries, as well as briefly introducing their preparation methods and mechanisms to provide researchers with more ideas and options for material modification.

Predicting the probability of malignant pathological type of kidney cancer based on mass size: A retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Different degrees of malignancy of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) correspond to dissimilar therapies, and the prediction of malignancy of kidney cancer based on tumor size is still not fully studied.

METHODS

We evaluated a total of 50,776 patients with T1-T2, N0, M0 RCC diagnosed between 2004 to 2015 based on the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Three and four fuhrman grade clear cell RCC, three and four fuhrman grade papillary RCC, collecting duct RCC, sarcomatoid differentiation RCC and unclassified RCC were classified as aggressive RCC. The other RCC was classified as indolent RCC. The probability of aggressive and indolent was estimated according to tumor size using a logistic regression model. Differences in survival between subgroups were assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

There were 38,003 cases of indolent tumor and 12,773 cases of aggressive tumor totally. As tumor size increases, the predicted probability of an aggressive tumor also increases. Concretely, kidney cancers of 2cm, 3cm and 4cm were estimated to be 19.6%, 21.6% and 23.7% more likely to be aggressive. And for the same tumor size, clear cell RCC in men is more likely to be invasive relative to women and other kidney cancer pathology types. In addition, both the overall and tumor-specific survival are longer for indolent tumors than for aggressive tumors.

CONCLUSION

We evaluated the degree of malignancy of different sizes RCC in a retrospective study. This result may be helpful in the choice of initial therapy strategies for kidney cancer patients.

[Gastric cancer-derived mesenchymal stem cells regulate the M2 polarization of macrophages within gastric cancer microenvironment via JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway]

Objective: To investigate the role and mechanism of tumor-derived mesenchymal stem cells in regulating the M2 polarization of macrophages within gastric cancer microenvironment. Methods: Gastric cancer tissues and the adjacent non-cancerous tissues were collected from patients underwent gastric cancer resection in the First People's Hospital of Lianyungang during 2018. In our study, THP-1-differentiated macrophages were co-cultured with gastric cancer-derived mesenchymal stem cells (GC-MSCs). Then, the M2 subtype-related gene, the markers expressed on cell surface and the cytokine profile were analyzed by real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), flow cytometry and Luminex liquid chip, respectively. The key cytokines mediating the inducing effect of GC-MSCs on macrophage polarization into the M2 subtype were detected and screened by Luminex liquid chip, which were further confirmed by the neutralizing antibody test. The expressions of macrophage proteins involved in M2 polarization-related signaling pathways under the different co-culture conditions of GC-MSCs were detected by western blot. Results: In Mac+ GC-MSC-culture medium (CM) group, the expression levels of Ym-1 and Fizz-1 (1.53±0.32 and 13.22±1.05, respectively), which are markers for M2 subtype, were both significantly higher than those of Mac group (1.00±0.05 and 1.21±0.38, respectively, P<0.05). The level of iNOS in Mac+ GC-MSC-CM group (0.60±0.41) was significantly lower than that of Mac group (1.06±0.38, P=0.023). In Mac+ GC-MSC-Transwell (TW) group, the expression levels of Ym-1 and Fizz-1 (1.47±0.09 and 13.16±2.77, respectively) were both significantly higher than those of Mac group (1.00±0.05 and 1.21±0.38, respectively, P<0.05). The level of iNOS in Mac+ GC-MSC-CM group (0.56±0.03) was significantly lower than that of Mac group (1.06±0.38, P=0.026). The ratios of CD163(+) /CD204(+) cells in Mac+ GC-MSC-CM and Mac+ GC-MSC-TW groups (3.80% and 4.40%, respectively) were both remarkably higher than that of Mac group (0.60%, P<0.05). The expression levels of IL-10, IL-6, MCP-1 and VEGF in Mac+ GC-MSC-CM group were (592.60±87.52), (1 346.80±64.70), (11 256.00±29.03) and (1 463.90±66.67) pg/ml, respectively, which were significantly higher than those of Mac group [(41.03±2.59), (17.35±1.79), (5 213.30±523.71) and (267.12±12.06) pg/ml, respectively, P<0.05]. The levels of TNF-α, IP-10, RANTES and MIP-1α were (95.57±9.34), (410.48±40.68), (6 967.30±1.29) and (1 538.70±283.04) pg/ml, which were significantly lower than those of Mac group [(138.01±24.31, (1 298.60±310.50), (14 631.00±4.21) and (6 633.20±1.47) pg/ml, respectively, P<0.05]. The levels of IL-6 and IL-8 in GC-MSCs [(11 185.02±2.82) and (12 718.03±370.17) pg/ml, respectively] were both strikingly higher than those of MSCs from adjacent non-cancerous gastric cancer tissues [(270.71±59.38) and (106.04±32.84) pg/ml, repectively, P<0.05]. The ratios of CD86(+) cells in Mac+ IL-6-blocked-GC-MSC-CM and Mac+ IL-8-blocked-GC-MSC-CM groups (28.80% and 31.40%, respectively) were both higher than that of Mac+ GC-MSC-CM group (24.70%). Compared to Mac+ GC-MSC-CM group (13.70%), the ratios of CD204(+) cells in Mac+ IL-6-blocked-GC-MSC-CM and Mac+ IL-8-blocked-GC-MSC-CM groups (9.90% and 8.70%, separately) were reduced. The expression levels of p-JAK2 and p-STAT3, which are proteins of macrophage M2 polarization-related signaling pathway, in Mac+ GC-MSC-CM group (0.86±0.01 and 1.08±0.01, respectively) were significantly higher than those of Mac group (0.50±0.01 and 0.82±0.01, respectively, P<0.05). The expression levels of p-JAK2 in Mac+ IL-6-blocked-GC-MSC-CM group (0.47±0.02) were significantly lower those that of Mac+ GC-MSC-CM group (0.86±0.01, P<0.05). The expression levels of p-JAK2 and p-STAT3 in Mac+ IL-8-blocked-GC-MSC-CM group (0.50±0.01 and 0.85±0.01, respectively) were both significantly lower than those of Mac+ GC-MSC-CM group (0.86±0.01 and 1.08±0.01, P<0.05). The expression levels of p-JAK2 and p-STAT3 in Mac+ IL-6/IL-8-blocked-GC-MSC-CM group (0.37±0.01 and 0.65±0.01, respectively) were both significantly lower than those of Mac+ GC-MSC-CM group (0.86±0.01 and 1.08±0.01, P<0.05). Conclusion: GC-MSCs promote the activation of JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in macrophages via high secretions of IL-6 and IL-8, which subsequently induce the macrophage polarization into a pro-tumor M2 subtype within gastric cancer microenvironment.

Exploring the risk-taking tendency among migrant workers in the COVID-19 pandemic: The role of ontological security

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the social environment of most laborers around the world and has profoundly affected people's ontological security and behavior choices. Among them, the migrant workers are one of the groups most affected by the pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

This study explored the mechanism of the impact of the scarcity of ontological security caused by the pandemic on the risk-taking tendency of migrant workers in China through two studies.

METHODS

This study adopts two experimental method, with 514 participants in the first study and 357 participants in the second study.

RESULTS

The results show that the pandemic-induced scarcity perception of ontological security promotes their risk-taking tendency, and the migrant workers' cognitive reflection ability, sense of unfairness and expected benefits play a significant mediating role in this process. The scarcity perception of ontological security promotes migrant workers' risk-taking tendency by reducing the cognitive reflection ability, triggering the sense of unfairness and overstating expected benefits.

CONCLUSIONS

The conclusion of this study can help migrant workers, enterprises and government to avoid potential workplace and social bad behavior.

[Effect of histone deacetylase 2 and 4 activity on connective tissue disease associated pulmonary fibrosis in mice]

Objective: To investigate the effect of histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity on connective tissue diseases (CTD) associated pulmonary fibrosis (PF) in mice. Methods: A single tracheal administration of bleomycin induced PF in C57BL/6J male mice was performed to establish a PF model. The experimental mice were divided into three groups: bleomycin group (group B, n = 16) which was given bleomycin A2 physiological saline solution 2.5 μl/g body weight, saline group (Group C, n = 16) which was given physiological saline solution 2.5 μl/g body weight and no operation group (group N, n = 16). At 7, 14 and 21 days after administration, the animals were randomly killed and their specimens were collected. The activity of HDAC2 and HDAC4 was detected by colorimetry. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to evaluate pulmonary alveolitis and Masson staining for pulmonary fibrosis. The variance, correlation and binary variable correlation were analyzed. Results: The HDAC2 activity in lung tissue of mice in the bleomycin group was significantly higher than that in the no operation group (2.00±0.40 vs 1.00±0.23, P<0.05) and the saline group (2.00±0.40 vs 1.48±0.33, P<0.05). The HDAC2 activity in the bleomycin group was significantly higher than that in the no operation group (2.40±0.28 vs 1.00±0.23, P<0.01, 2.23±0.41 vs 1.00±0.23, P<0.01) and the saline group (2.40±0.28 vs 1.39±0.23, P<0.05, 2.23±0.41 vs 1.35±0.42, P<0.05). The change trend of HDAC2 activity between the bleomycin group and the saline group was different. There was no significant difference in HDAC4 activity in lung tissue of mice between the bleomycin group, the no operation group and the saline group. 14 days after tracheal administration, HDAC4 activity in the bleomycin group and the saline group were significantly higher than that in the no operation group (1.18±0.36 vs 1.00±0.12, P<0.01, 1.09±0.33 vs 1.00±0.12, P<0.01). HDAC2 activity in lung tissue of mice was positively correlated with pathological scores of alveolitis (r=0.428, P<0.01) and pulmonary fibrosis (r=0.508, P<0.01). HDAC4 activity in lung tissue of mice was positively correlated with the pathological scores of alveolitis (r=0.355, P<0.05) and pulmonary fibrosis (r=0.457, P<0.01). Binary linear regression analysis showed that HDAC2 activity had a stronger effect on the process of PF lesions than HDAC4 activity in lung tissue of mice. Conclusions: When pulmonary fibrosis occurred in mice, the activities of HDAC2 and 4 in pulmonary fibrosis were significantly increased. The activity of HDAC2 increased rapidly and lastingly, and the activity of HDAC4 fluctuated significantly and increased briefly. Changes in HDAC2 activity have stronger effects on alveolitis and fibrosis than HDAC4.

Research on the influence of the COVID-19 epidemic on work stress of returning workers in China: A study based on empirical analyses of industrial enterprises

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 epidemic not only cast a shadow on China's economic development but also caused phased panic and anxiety among the Chinese population. At the stage when the spread of the epidemic is not completely controlled, the business activities will surely cause employees to worry and produce a work stress reaction.

OBJECTIVE

This study explores the impact of psychosocial stress caused by the COVID-19 epidemic on the work stress of returned workers. Furthermore, we explore the boundary conditions for reducing work stress from the perspectives of perceived organizational support, perceived social support and epidemic awareness.

METHODS

Data were collected within two weeks after the Chinese government announced the work resumption of industrial enterprises. During this period, 526 returned workers participated in the study.

RESULTS

The results showed that the psychosocial stress caused by the epidemic had a positive impact on work stress. Both perceived organizational support and perceived that social support can alleviate the impact of psychosocial stress on work stress. The moderating effect of epidemic awareness was only established in non-severe epidemic areas.

CONCLUSIONS

In the current period of the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic, the conclusions of this study have a certain theoretical significance and practical value.

[Curcumin induces apoptosis and protective autophagy in human gastric cancer cells with different degree of differentiation]

Objective: To investigate the effect of curcumin on the apoptosis and autophagy of human gastric cancer cells with different degree of differentiation. Methods: Gastric cancer cell lines BGC-823 and MKN-28 were treated with curcumin at different concentrations. The effect of curcumin on cell proliferation was measured by MTT assay. Apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry. Autophagy status was analyzed by acridine orange staining. The expression levels of apoptotic and autophagy-related proteins were detected by Western blot. Results: The cell viability of BGC-823 and MKN-28 was inhibited by curcumin in a time- and dose-dependent manner. At 48 h after treatment, the IC(50) value of BGC-823 (15.18 μmol/L) was close to that of MKN-28 (15.84 μmol/L), and the difference was not statistically significant (P=0.513). Meanwhile, flow cytometry showed that curcumin induced the apoptosis of gastric cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner. Western blot results showed that the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins bax, active-caspase-3 and active-caspase-9 was significantly increased in BGC-823 and MKN-28 cells, whereas that of the anti-apoptotic protein bcl-2 was strikingly reduced. In addition, the formation of acidic vesicular organelles in cytoplasm, conversion of LC3-Ⅰ to LC3-Ⅱ and increased levels of autophagy-related proteins Beclin1, Atg7 and Atg5-Atg12 were observed in curcumin-treated cells. Moreover, activation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway was also significantly suppressed after curcumin treatment. Blocking autophagy by adding the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA) significantly promoted the apoptotic cell death induced by curcumin. Conclusions: Curcumin induces apoptosis and protective autophagy in human gastric cancer cells in vitro. Curcumin combined with autophagy inhibitor may provide a more effective strategy for its clinical application.

Temporary inhibition of the plasminogen activator inhibits periosteal chondrogenesis and promotes periosteal osteogenesis during appendicular bone fracture healing

INTRODUCTION

Aminocaproic acid is approved as an anti-fibrinolytic for use in joint replacement and spinal fusion surgeries to limit perioperative blood loss. Previous animal studies have demonstrated a pro-osteogenic effect of aminocaproic acid in spine fusion models. Here, we tested if aminocaproic acid enhances appendicular bone healing and we sought to uncover the effect of aminocaproic acid on osteoprogenitor cells (OPCs) during bone regeneration.

METHODS

We employed a well-established murine femur fracture model in adult C57BL/6J mice after receiving two peri-operative injections of aminocaproic acid. Routine histological assays, biomechanical testing and micro-CT analyses were utilized to assess callus volume, and strength, progenitor cell proliferation, differentiation, and remodeling in vivo. Two disparate ectopic transplantation models were used to study the effect of the growth factor milieu within the early fracture hematoma on osteoprogenitor cell fate decisions.

RESULTS

Aminocaproic acid treated femur fractures healed with a significantly smaller cartilaginous callus, and this effect was also observed in the ectopic transplantation assays. We hypothesized that aminocaproic acid treatment resulted in a stabilization of the early fracture hematoma, leading to a change in the growth factor milieu created by the early hematoma. Gene and protein expression analysis confirmed that aminocaproic acid treatment resulted in an increase in Wnt and BMP signaling and a decrease in TGF-β-signaling, resulting in a shift from chondrogenic to osteogenic differentiation in this model of endochondral bone formation.

CONCLUSION

These experiments demonstrate for the first time that inhibition of the plasminogen activator during fracture healing using aminocaproic acid leads to a change in cell fate decision of periosteal osteoprogenitor cells, with a predominance of osteogenic differentiation, resulting in a larger and stronger bony callus. These findings may offer a promising new use of aminocaproic acid, which is already FDA-approved and offers a very safe risk profile.

Inhibitory effect and mechanism of metformin on human ovarian cancer cells SKOV-3 and A2780

OBJECTIVE

Ovarian cancer is the most common malignant tumor in female reproductive system. Metformin is an orally taken hypoglycemic agent, which is extensively applied in the clinic. Clinical trials find that there may be a certain degree of action of the metformin in inhibiting malignant tumors. This paper aims to investigate the inhibitory effect and mechanism of metformin on human ovarian cancer cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Through in vitro cell experiment, the influences of metformin on the proliferation, colony formation and apoptosis of ovarian carcinoma cells were studied. Ovarian cancer cells SKOV-3 and A2780 in logarithmic growth phase were selected and cell proliferation was measured by MTT method. The metformin was processed for 48 h to calculate the survival rate of cells. Also, metformin was processed for 24 h and two weeks or stained with crystal violet, after which Quantity One (Bio-Rad, Hercules, CA, USA) method was used to quantitatively analyze the cell clone formation, meanwhile, the FCM (flow cytometry) was used for the detection and analysis.

RESULTS

Intervened by metformin with different concentrations for 48 h, the cell viabilities of SKOV-3 and A2780 cells were respectively reduced by 19.49 ± 2.92%, 45.41 ± 7.95%, 53.84 ± 5.53%, 64.04 ± 4.36% and 11.45 ± 3.12%, 35.42 ± 7.55%, 43.77 ± 5.77%, 53.05 ± 5.55% as compared with that in the control group with statistical significances. After processed by metformin with different concentrations for two weeks, the cells clone numbers of SKOV-3 and A2780 were significantly reduced. Treatment of metformin on SKOV-3 and A2780 cells of human ovarian cancer showed significant apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The metformin has the inhibitory effect on the cells of human ovarian cancer, which may be through inducing ovarian cancer cell apoptosis.

Effect of Astragalus polysaccharides on ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis in mice

Postmenopausal osteoporosis, a common type of osteoporosis in women, has become a serious public health issue. Astragalus polysaccharides (APS), possessing various pharmacological activities, are the active ingredients of Radix Astragali. It can be advantageous in the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. In the present study, we evaluated the potential therapeutic effects of APS on postmenopausal osteoporosis by using a mice model induced by ovariectomy (OVX). Forty-eight female 6-week-old outbred ICR mice were randomly divided into six groups (N = 8): Sham group, OVX group, 17 β-estradiol (E2, 0.1 mg/kg)-treated OVX group, and APS (at three doses: 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg)-treated OVX groups. The effect of APS on the bone mineral density (BMD) was determined using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The serum levels of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL), osteoprotegerin (OPG), osteocalcin, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were measured using ELISA kits. The results revealed that APS exerted significant anti-osteoporotic activity by increasing the BMD considerably in a dose-dependent manner. APS treatment reduced the serum RANKL levels considerably and increased the serum OPG levels, thereby lowering the ratio of RANKL/OPG. Furthermore, APS also markedly reduced osteocalcin and TNF-α concentration in OVX-induced postmenopausal osteoporosis mice model. These results showed that APS exerts a protective effect on bone loss in OVX mice. The molecular mechanism underlying this effect be the reduction of bone resorption and inhibition of osteoclastogenesis. Our findings suggest that APS may be a potential strategy for the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Abstract S3-07: Complication and economic burden of local therapy options for early breast cancer

Background: Guideline-concordant local therapy options for early breast cancer include lumpectomy plus whole breast irradiation (lump+WBI), lumpectomy plus brachytherapy (lump+brachy), mastectomy without reconstruction or radiation (mast alone), mastectomy with reconstruction without radiation (mast+recon), and, in older women, lumpectomy without radiation (lump alone). Little is known regarding the comparative complication and economic burden of these options in the general population.

Methods: We used the MarketScan database which includes younger women with private insurance and the SEER-Medicare database which includes older women with Medicare. Women were included if they had early stage disease (T1/2 N0/1 M0) diagnosed in 2000-2011, no prior cancer, and complete insurance coverage from 12 months prior through 24 months after diagnosis. A complication from local therapy was defined as a diagnosis or procedure code for any of the following within 24 months of diagnosis: wound complication, local infection, seroma/hematoma, fat necrosis, breast pain, pneumonitis, rib fracture, and implant removal. Total costs and complication-related costs within 24 months of diagnosis were calculated from a payer's perspective and are reported in 2014 dollars. Logistic regression compared complications by local therapy and generalized linear regression (log link function, gamma distribution) compared complication-related and total costs by local therapy; all models adjusted for relevant covariables.

Results: We selected 44,344 patients from the MarketScan cohort, median age of 53, and 50,562 patients from the SEER-Medicare cohort, median age of 75. For the MarketScan cohort, risk of complications varied as follows: 29% risk in patients treated with lump+WBI (referent), 44% with lump+brachy (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]=2.00;P&lt;.001), 25% with mast alone (AOR=0.85;P&lt;.001), and 54% with mast+recon (AOR=2.89;P&lt;.001). For the SEER-Medicare cohort, risk of complications varied as follows: 37% with lump+WBI (referent), 52% with lump+brachy (AOR=1.91;P&lt;.001), 37% with mast alone (AOR=0.97;P=.17), 65% with mast+recon (AOR=3.17; P&lt;.001), and 30% with lump alone (AOR=0.81; P&lt;.001). Compared to lump+WBI, mean adjusted complication-related cost was $8,085 higher per patient with mast+recon in the MarketScan cohort and $3,711 higher per patient with mast+recon in the SEER-Medicare cohort. In contrast, complication-related costs were similar (+/- $750) for all other local therapy options relative to lump+WBI in both cohorts. For total cost, mast+recon was the most expensive local therapy in the MarketScan cohort, with mean adjusted total cost of $77,321, which was $15,181 more expensive than lump+WBI. In the SEER-Medicare cohort, lump+brachy was the most expensive option ($39,534), followed by mast+recon ($35,269), lump+WBI ($32,562), mast alone ($26,401), and lump alone ($24,455).

Conclusion: Mast+recon results in the highest complication rate and complication-related cost in both younger women and older women with early breast cancer. These findings are relevant to defining which local therapies offer the highest value to patients, payers, and society, and are relevant to patients when evaluating their local therapy options.

Citation Format: Smith BD, Jiang J, Shih Y-CT, Giordano SH, Huo J, Jagsi R, Caudle AS, Hunt KK, Shaitelman SF, Buchholz TA, Shirvani SM. Complication and economic burden of local therapy options for early breast cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr S3-07.

Loss of Fas apoptosis inhibitory molecule leads to spontaneous obesity and hepatosteatosis

Altered hepatic lipogenesis is associated with metabolic diseases such as obesity and hepatosteatosis. Insulin resistance and compensatory hyperinsulinaemia are key drivers of these metabolic imbalances. Fas apoptosis inhibitory molecule (FAIM), a ubiquitously expressed antiapoptotic protein, functions as a mediator of Akt signalling. Since Akt acts at a nodal point in insulin signalling, we hypothesize that FAIM may be involved in energy metabolism. In the current study, C57BL/6 wild-type (WT) and FAIM-knockout (FAIM-KO) male mice were fed with normal chow diet and body weight changes were monitored. Energy expenditure, substrate utilization and physical activities were analysed using a metabolic cage. Liver, pancreas and adipose tissue were subjected to histological examination. Serum glucose and insulin levels and lipid profiles were determined by biochemical assays. Changes in components of the insulin signalling pathway in FAIM-KO mice were examined by immunoblots. We found that FAIM-KO mice developed spontaneous non-hyperphagic obesity accompanied by hepatosteatosis, adipocyte hypertrophy, dyslipidaemia, hyperglycaemia and hyperinsulinaemia. In FAIM-KO liver, lipogenesis was elevated as indicated by increased fatty acid synthesis and SREBP-1 and SREBP-2 activation. Notably, protein expression of insulin receptor beta was markedly reduced in insulin target organs of FAIM-KO mice. Akt phosphorylation was also lower in FAIM-KO liver and adipose tissue as compared with WT controls. In addition, phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1 and Akt2 in response to insulin treatment in isolated FAIM-KO hepatocytes was also markedly attenuated. Altogether, our data indicate that FAIM is a novel regulator of insulin signalling and plays an essential role in energy homoeostasis. These findings may shed light on the pathogenesis of obesity and hepatosteatosis.

Recurrent activating mutations of CD28 in peripheral T-cell lymphomas

Peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCLs) comprise a heterogeneous group of mature T-cell neoplasms with a poor prognosis. Recently, mutations in TET2 and other epigenetic modifiers as well as RHOA have been identified in these diseases, particularly in angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL). CD28 is the major co-stimulatory receptor in T cells which, upon binding ligand, induces sustained T-cell proliferation and cytokine production when combined with T-cell receptor stimulation. We have identified recurrent mutations in CD28 in PTCLs. Two residues-D124 and T195-were recurrently mutated in 11.3% of cases of AITL and in one case of PTCL, not otherwise specified (PTCL-NOS). Surface plasmon resonance analysis of mutations at these residues with predicted differential partner interactions showed increased affinity for ligand CD86 (residue D124) and increased affinity for intracellular adaptor proteins GRB2 and GADS/GRAP2 (residue T195). Molecular modeling studies on each of these mutations suggested how these mutants result in increased affinities. We found increased transcription of the CD28-responsive genes CD226 and TNFA in cells expressing the T195P mutant in response to CD3 and CD86 co-stimulation and increased downstream activation of NF-κB by both D124V and T195P mutants, suggesting a potential therapeutic target in CD28-mutated PTCLs.

Between-Scanner and Between-Visit Variation in Normal White Matter Apparent Diffusion Coefficient Values in the Setting of a Multi-Center Clinical Trial

PURPOSE

To study the between-scanner variation and the between-visit reproducibility of brain apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) measurements in the setting of a multi-center chemotherapy clinical trial for glioblastoma multiforme.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

ADC maps of 52 patients at six sites were calculated in-house from diffusion-weighted images obtained by seven individual scanner models of two vendors. The median and coefficient of variation (CV) of normal brain white matter ADC values from a defined region of interest were used to evaluate the differences among scanner models, vendors, magnetic fields, as well as successive visits. All patients participating in this study signed institutional review board approved informed consent. Data acquisition was performed in compliance with all applicable Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act regulations. The study spanned from August 1, 2006, to January 29, 2008.

RESULTS

For baseline median ADC, no difference was observed between the different scanner models, different vendors, and different magnetic field strength. For baseline ADC CV, a significant difference was found between different scanner models (p = 0.0002). No between-scanner difference was observed in ADC changes between two visits. For between-visit reproducibility, significant difference was seen between the ADC values measured at two successive visits for the whole patient group.

CONCLUSION

The CVs varied significantly between scanners, presumably due to image noise. Consistent scanner parameter setup can improve reproducibility of the ADC measurements between visits.

Fibroblastic rheumatism: the first case with infiltration of multinuclear giant cells and raised blood lead level

Fibroblastic rheumatism (FR) is a rare condition characterized by symmetrical polyarthritis and multiple cutaneous nodules. Approximately 30 cases have been reported worldwide to date. Laboratory tests are not particular useful to confirm the disease. Diagnosis is mainly dependent on the characteristic histopathological features: thickened collagen fibres with spindle-shaped cell proliferation in the skin lesion. We report a case of a 48-year-old Chinese man with typical clinical features of FR. In addition to the characteristic histopathological findings, multinuclear giant cell infiltration in skin lesions was detected, in this case. The evaluation of microelements revealed a raised blood lead level) of 129 μg/L (normal range 0-99 μg/L) These two features have never been described in the previous medical literature on FR. Thus, we propose that examining the infiltrated cells in detail in histopathological studies and inspecting the levels of lead and other microelements in the blood may increase our understanding of the pathogenesis of FR.

A novel frameshift mutation in the cylindromatosis (CYLD) gene in a Chinese family with multiple familial trichoepithelioma

Multiple familial trichoepithelioma (MFT) (OMIM: 601606) is an autosomal dominantly inherited disorder characterized by numerous, skin-colored papules and nodules with pilar differentiation. Recently, several mutations in the cylindromatosis (CYLD) gene have been reported in MFT. In this study, a mutation analysis of the CYLD was conducted in a Chinese pedigree of typical MFT. Affected individuals were identified through probands from Shanxi Province, China. Lesional skin biopsy of the proband revealed the typical histopathological characteristics of trichoepithelioma. Individuals belonging to five consecutive generations were similarly affected, which indicated an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood lymphocytes using standard phenol/chloroform extraction method. All the coding exons (4-20) and exon-intron boundaries of the CYLD gene were amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Direct sequencing of all PCR products amplified from the complete coding regions of the CYLD gene was performed to identify mutations. Sequencing of the CYLD gene was performed in a further 100 unrelated, unaffected control individuals to exclude the possibility of polymorphism. A novel heterozygous frameshift mutation c.1169_1170delCA (p.Thr390Argfs) was identified in exon 10 of the CYLD gene in the affected family members. This mutation was also detected in unaffected family members, but not in the unrelated, healthy individuals who were also analyzed. Our study expands the database on the CYLD gene mutations in MFT and should be useful in providing genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis for families affected by MFT.

HLA-B*1502 increases the risk of phenytoin or lamotrigine induced Stevens-Johnson Syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis: evidence from a meta-analysis of nine case-control studies

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are fatal adverse cutaneous drug reactions which may be induced by phenytoin (PHT) or lamotrigine (LTG). The objective of this study was to analyze the association of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B*1502 and PHT or LTG induced SJS/TEN.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All the participants were epileptic patients and the SJS/TEN were induced by PHT or LTG. The presence or absence of the HLA-B*1502 allele of all the patients was determined. ISI Web of Knowledge, PubMed, ScienceDirect, EMBASE, and Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) data were searched for the literature published before April 2014. Meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.2 software.

RESULTS

From 256 citations, 6 English studies were included that involved 480 epilepsy patients. Meta-analysis showed that odd ratio (OR) of PHT and LTG were 5.65 [95% CI: 2.76-11.57] and 4.51 [95% CI: 1.57-12.98], respectively. Funnel plot analysis showed symmetry, indicting less possible publication bias and the results were partly reliable.

CONCLUSION

There is a significant association between HLA-B*1502 and PHT or LTG-induced SJS/TEN.

A new strategy for identification of currant (Ribes nigrum L.) cultivars using RAPD markers

We developed a new approach using RAPD fingerprints to distinguish 37 currant cultivars from northeastern China based on optimization of RAPD by choosing 11 nucleotide primers and strict screening PCR annealing temperature. We found that the manual cultivar identification diagram (MCID) approach clearly developed fingerprints from 8 different primers that were useful for cultivar identification; a cultivar identification diagram (CID) was readily constructed. This CID allows efficient currant cultivar identification, providing information to separate all the currant cultivars from each other, based on the detail polymorphic bands from the corresponding primers, which were marked in the correct positions on the currant CID. According to the CID, 10 currant cultivars in 5 groups were randomly selected for the referable and workable identification of this strategy. The results proved the workability and efficiency of the MCID method, facilitating the identification of fruit cultivars with DNA markers. This MCID approach will be useful for early identification of seedlings in the nursery industry and protection of cultivar rights.

MiRNA s in oesophageal squamous cancer

Oesophageal cancer is a common cancer worldwide with a very poor prognosis. Oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the major subtype of oesophageal cancer but also one of the least studied cancers worldwide. Although the molecular genetics of OSCC have been widely studied, the molecular mechanism of OSCC carcinogenesis is not completely understood. MicroRNA (miRNA) is now essential to understanding the molecular mechanism of cancer progression. Recent findings include the following: 1) recent findings regarding the functions of miRNA; 2) some of the latest findings on expression profile of miRNA involved in OSCC; 3) miRNAs and their target genes and molecular mechanisms in OSCC; and 4) the therapeutic-clinical potential of miRNAs in OSCC. We can make full use of this knowledge to guide us to evaluate and improve the patient's condition and choose the most fitting medical treatment or explore new approaches to improve the survival ratio of OSCC patients.

Patterns of progression in patients with recurrent glioblastoma treated with bevacizumab

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated patterns of tumor progression in patients with recurrent glioblastoma who were treated with bevacizumab (BEV) alone or in combination with irinotecan (CPT-11) while participating in the BRAIN study.

METHODS

An independent neuroradiologist reviewed MRI scans at baseline and progression in patients who received BEV (n = 85) or BEV+CPT-11 (n = 82) while on BRAIN. Tumor patterns were scored as local, distant, diffuse, or multifocal. Median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated using Kaplan-Meier methods. Hazard ratios for PFS and OS were estimated using a Cox regression model.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight percent of patients who participated in BRAIN had nonlocal disease at baseline (72% local disease). Sixty-seven (79%) patients treated with single-agent BEV and 57 (70%) patients treated with BEV+CPT-11 experienced disease progression while on BRAIN. Most patients in each treatment group did not have a change in the radiographic pattern of their tumor (i.e., "no shift") at the time of progression. The proportion of BEV patients with no shift (82%) was greater than that of BEV+CPT-11 patients (53%, χ(2) p = 0.0004), and a greater proportion of BEV+CPT-11 patients (39%) compared with BEV patients (16%) experienced local-to-diffuse tumor pattern at progression (χ(2) p = 0.002). Patients treated with BEV or BEV+CPT-11 who had local-to-local or local-to-diffuse progression patterns had similar efficacy outcomes, including objective response, PFS, and OS.

CONCLUSIONS

Most patients treated with BEV or BEV+CPT-11 on BRAIN did not experience a change from baseline in radiographic characteristics of disease at the time of progression.

Genetic deletion of faim reveals its role in modulating c-FLIP expression during CD95-mediated apoptosis of lymphocytes and hepatocytes

Fas-apoptosis inhibitory molecule (FAIM) is inducibly expressed in B lymphocytes and had been shown to antagonize Fas-mediated killing of B-cell lines in vitro. However, its mechanism and role in vivo are unknown. We have generated faim(-/-) mice and found these mutants to be viable. In contrast to fas(-/-) mice, faim(-/-) mice have normal B- and T-cell populations. However, faim(-/-) B cells and thymocytes show increased sensitivity to Fas-triggered apoptosis in vitro, and faim(-/-) mice suffer greater mortality and exhibit exacerbated liver damage in response to Fas (CD95) engagement in vivo. The lack of FAIM results in greater activation of caspase-8 and -3 in Fas-stimulated thymocytes. Detailed biochemical analyses further reveal the decreased expression of c-FLIP(L) and c-FLIP(R) in faim(-/-) thymocytes and increased association of caspase-8 with Fas in Fas-activated mutant cells. Decreased levels of c-FLIP(L) and c-FLIP(R) are also evident in faim(-/-) liver. Thus, FAIM plays a novel role in modulating Fas-mediated apoptosis and acts through influencing the expression of c-FLIP and regulating the physical binding of caspase-8 to Fas.

Transsphenoidal surgery utilizing computer-assisted stereotactic guidance

Computer-assisted guidance technology represents the next step in the application of stereotactic techniques to skull base surgery. Use of this 3-D technique reduces operative time and complications as the technique allows a more direct approach with precise real-time anatomical guidance. We present seven cases of transsphenoidal parasellar surgery where this technique has been employed. The pathology included lesions of the sella turcica, parasellar region and the petrous apex.

[Study on the gene polymorphismand the levels of α₁-antitrypsin (α1-AT) in patients with lung cancer in Harbin]

BACKGROUND

To study the gene polymorphism and the dynamic changes of the level of α₁-antitrypsin(α₁-AT) in patients with lung cancer of Chinese Han race in Harbin and its clinical significance.

METHODS

The phenotypes of α₁-AT from 99 patients with lung cancer and 749 normal persons were determined by polyacrylamide gel isoelectricfocusing electrophoresis. The levels of α₁-AT in serum were determined by monophonic immunodiffusion.

RESULTS

The common subtypes, such as M₁M₁ , M₁M₂ , M₂M₃, etc, were positive and the deficiency subtype was negative in both of the two groups. There was no significant difference in phenotypes and gene frequencies between the two groups ( P > 0. 05) . The level of α₁-AT in patients with lung cancer were remarkably higher than that in normal group ( P < 0. 05) , and significantly increased after anti-inflammatory or/and chemical treatment ( P < 0. 05) .

CONCLUSIONS

There is no significant difference in gene polymorphism of α₁-AT between the patients with lung cancer and normal persons, but the dynamic changes of α₁-AT are valuable to differentiate inflammation from cancer, estimate the efficacy of chemotherapy, and formulate and adjust the treatment scheme.

[Effect of NaFeEDTA fortified soy sauce on iron deficiency anemia in students]

NaFeEDTA fortified soy sauce was given to 300 students with iron deficiency anemia (IDA) for 3 months. The subjects were divided into three groups: control group, low iron supplemented group (Fe 5 mg/d) and high iron supplemented group (Fe 20 mg/d). Hemoglobin (Hb), serum iron, serum ferrtin, erythrocyte protoporphyrin, total iron binding capacity and serum transferrin were evaluated before and after the study. The results showed that Hb, serum iron, ferrtin and transferrin of the intervention groups had improved and erythrocyte protoporphyrin, total iron binding capacity decreased. There were no differences between the two intervention groups after the trial. The parameters of both intervention groups were much better than those of the control group. The results suggested that NaFeEDTA fortified soy sauce had positive influence on IDA.

Reinforcement of an end-to-end tracheal resection anastomosis with fibrin glue: a case report

Tracheal resection and primary anastomosis is the treatment of choice for a short-segment stenosis. However, the procedure does carry the risk of two potentially fatal complications: anastomosis breakdown and leak. We describe the case of a 67-year-old man who was treated for a 3-cm tracheal stenosis secondary to a prolonged intubation and multiple tracheostomies. The patient underwent a tracheal resection and primary anastomosis. The anastomosis was reinforced with fibrin sealant, which created an airtight seal. The patient was extubated postoperatively, and he healed without complication. Fibrin sealant is a convenient, safe, and effective material for reinforcing anastomotic suture lines.

[Estrogenicity of black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) and its effect on estrogen receptor level in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells]

The estrogenicity of Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa, CR) was tested in vivo and in vitro and its effect on estrogen receptor (ER) level of human breast cancer MCF-7 cells were investigated. Based on the body weight of animals, 75, 150 and 300 mg/kg of CR were administered by tube feeding to immature female mice for 14 days. Estrus was observed and the uterine and ovary weights of mice were measured. The optimal dose of CR for the growth of MCF-7 cells was screened by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazoliumbromide (MTT) assay. Subsequently, Growth curves of MCF-7 cells in blank control, 4.75 micrograms/L of CR and 0.3 nmol/L of 17 beta-estradiol groups were observed for 5 days. ER level in MCF-7 cells was analyzed by indirect immunofluorescence assay in flow cytometry. The results showed that uterine weight increased with the increasing dosage of CR and the days of estrus was significantly prolonged in the 300 mg/kg group (P < 0.05). The concentration of CR at 4.75 micrograms/L showed the strongest enhancement effects (64.7%). The doubling time (TD) of cell growth in CR group and 17 beta-estradiol group were 32.1 h and 31.7 h respectively, which were shorter than that of blank control (TD = 35.3 h). Additionally, 4.75 micrograms/L of CR significantly increased ER levels compared with the blank control (P < 0.01). Taking all the results together, CR has an estrogen-like action. The enhancing effect of CR on ER level is one of the potential mechanisms involved with its therapeutic role in climacteric syndrome.

[The clinic significance of serum hyaluronate and tumor necrosis factor alpha levels in liver diseases]

Serum levels of hyaluronic acid (HA) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) in 94 patients with various liver diseases and 31 healthy controls were studied by RIA, Serum TNF alpha in hepatitis, liver cirrhosis (LC) and primary hepatic carcinoma (PHC) was higher than that of the control. Serum HA in chronic hepatitis, LC and PHC was higher than that in the control. The serum level of HA showed a positive correlation with the serum level of TNF alpha. It is considered that the increase of serum HA indicates an early fibrogenic tendency in patients with liver diseases. TNF alpha is involved in the formation of hepatic fibrosis.

Genetic and molecular mechanisms of age regulation (homeostasis) of blood coagulation

Blood coagulation plays a critical role not only in hemostasis but also in many physiological and pathological conditions. Epidemiological studies have shown that blood coagulation capacity in humans increases with age. Towards understanding the underlying mechanisms, the age regulation of factor IX, a key blood coagulation factor, was extensively studied. A series of human factor IX minigenes, consisting of various components of the human factor IX gene, were constructed and subjected to systematic analyses with HepG2 cells in culture and over the entire life span of transgenic mice. These studies identified critical gene structures that are essential for the unique age-dependent expression patterns of the human factor IX gene--one acting by stabilizing gene transcription and another increasing the amount of mRNA present, presumably by augmenting mRNA stability. These studies have set the stage for analyzing the overall age-based regulatory mechanisms of blood coagulation.

[Clinical application of magnetic resonance angiography in the body]

OBJECTIVE

To identify the accuracy and reliability of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) in evaluating patients with vascular lesions in the body.

METHODS

171 patients with suspected vascular lesions in the body were examined by MRA and compared with the results of X-ray angiography (XRA) or operation.

RESULTS

MRA showed abnormal vein in 12 patients and normal in 6 corresponding to XRA or operation. MRA revealed aneurysm in 54 patients: aortic dissection (26), aortic aneurysm (15) and peripheral aneurysm (13). Two peripheral aneurysms could not only be found by MRA. The sensitivity of MRA was 97% for aneurysm lesions. The sensitivity of MRA in the diagnosis of suspicious peripheral artery stenosis in 84 patients was 95%, the specificity 89%, and the accuracy 92% in comparison with those of XRA and operation.

CONCLUSION

MRA is accurate and reliable in evaluating vascular lesion in the body and can replace XRA in many cases.

Solitary mastocytoma in an infant - case report with review of literature

Solitary mastocytoma in infants is an uncommon disease which is characterized by mast cell hyperplasia and release of mast cell mediators. The most common presentation is pruritus. The treatment of solitary mastocytoma is symptomatic. Cutaneous mastocytoma tend to resolve by adulthood.