[Research progress on regional odontodysplasia]

Regional odontodysplasia (ROD) is a rare localized dental developmental anomaly. The typical clinical manifestations of ROD are abnormal tooth eruption, abnormal development of enamel and dentin. The radiographic characteristic is "ghost teeth". Its etiology still remains unknown. The care and treatment of a patient with ROD needs a multidisciplinary approach. And the treatment should be taken after the assessment of each individual case of ROD. This paper reviews the definition, etiology, epidemiological features, clinical manifestations, imaging features, dental microstructure and treatment strategies of ROD to provide reference for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Proton and molecular permeation through the basal plane of monolayer graphene oxide

Two-dimensional (2D) materials offer a prospect of membranes that combine negligible gas permeability with high proton conductivity and could outperform the existing proton exchange membranes used in various applications including fuel cells. Graphene oxide (GO), a well-known 2D material, facilitates rapid proton transport along its basal plane but proton conductivity across it remains unknown. It is also often presumed that individual GO monolayers contain a large density of nanoscale pinholes that lead to considerable gas leakage across the GO basal plane. Here we show that relatively large, micrometer-scale areas of monolayer GO are impermeable to gases, including helium, while exhibiting proton conductivity through the basal plane which is nearly two orders of magnitude higher than that of graphene. These findings provide insights into the key properties of GO and demonstrate that chemical functionalization of 2D crystals can be utilized to enhance their proton transparency without compromising gas impermeability.

[Orodental phenotype and genotype findings in 8 Chinese children with hypophosphatasia]

Objective: To analyze the oral phenotype and gene variation of children with hypophosphatasia (HPP), and explore the genotype-phenotype correlations. Methods: Eight children diagnosed with HPP from January 2008 to January 2023 in Children's Hospital,Zhejiang University School of Medicine were recruited in this study. The pathogenic genes of 5 of them were sequentially analyzed and all of their oral manifestations, laboratory tests and genetic variation types were retrospectively analyzed. Results: A total of 8 children were recruited in the study, 3 males and 5 females, aged from 20 months to 104 months, whose main complaints were premature deciduous tooth loss. Among them, 3 children were diagnosed with odonto HPP, and the other 5 children were diagnosed with childhood HPP, including 2 children was odonto HPP at the first diagnosis and modified as childhood HPP at the age of 5. The age range of first deciduous tooth loss is 9 to 18 months, and the age range of diagnosis is 20 to 104 months. The patients of odonto HPP only showed premature loss of deciduous anterior tooth, while the patients with childhood HPP also showed premature loss of multiple deciduous molars. Panoramic radiographic film revealed enlarged pulp chambers and radicular canals in some primary and permanent teeth. The enamel hypoplasia, hypoplastic short roots, and alveolar resorption of deciduous molar were observed in some cases. The serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (30-107 U/L) levels of all the patients were lower than that in the normal children of same age and gender, and the ALP value of the 1-3 years old girls with childhood HPP (30-33 U/L) was lower than that of the three children with odonto HPP (61-107 U/L), but there was no significant difference in statistical analysis. There were 8 variation sites of ALP liver/bone/kidney (ALPL) gene detected in 5 children and their families, all of which were missense variation, including the new variants in the mutations of c.1334C>G(p.Ser445Cys) and c.1259G>T(p.Gly420Val) that were not reported in the literature. One case was autosomal dominant inheritance and other 4 cases were complex heterozygous variation with autosomal recessive inheritance. Conclusions: Pediatric stomatologists are often the first doctors to detect childhood and odonto HPP. Diagnosis of mild HPP is often delayed. The severity of HPP is related to serum ALP level and ALPL gene mutation sites.

[Impact of different obesity patterns on coronary microvascular function in male patients with non-obstructive coronary artery disease]

Objective: This study sought to investigate the impact of different obesity patterns on coronary microvascular function in male patients with non-obstructive coronary artery disease. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed clinical data of male patients diagnosed with suspected coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) in the First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University between December 2015 and August 2021. All patients underwent the one-day rest and stress ¹³N-ammonia positron emission tomography myocardial perfusion imaging. Overall obesity was defined by body mass index (BMI) ≥28 kg/m² and abdominal obesity was defined by waist circumference ≥90 cm. Hyperemic myocardial blood flow (MBF)<2.3 ml·min^-1·g^-1 or coronary flow reserve (CFR)<2.5 were referred as CMD. All patients were grouped based on their BMI and waist circumference. MBF, CFR, the incidence of CMD, hemodynamic parameters, and cardiac function were compared among the groups. Results: A total of 136 patients were included. According to BMI and waist circumference, patients were categorized into 3 groups: control group (n=45), simple abdominal obesity group (n=53) and compound obesity group (n=38). Resting MBF did not differ between groups (F=0.02,P=0.994). Compared with the control group, hyperemic MBF was significantly lower in the simple abdominal obesity and compound obesity groups ((2.82±0.64) ml·min^-1·g^-1, (2.44±0.85) ml·min^-1·g^-1 and (2.49±0.71) ml·min^-1·g^-1, both P<0.05, respectively). Hyperemic MBF was comparable among the groups of patients with obesity (P=0.772). CFR was significantly lower in the simle abdominal obesity group compared with the control group (2.87±0.99 vs. 3.32±0.62,P=0.012). Compared with the control group, CFR tended to be lower in the compound obesity group (3.02±0.91 vs. 3.32±0.62,P=0.117). The incidence of CMD was significantly higher in both the simple abdominal obesity and compound obesity groups than in the control group (62.3%, 52.6% vs. 22.2%, both P<0.01, respectively). Waist circumference was an independent risk factor for male CMD (OR=1.057, 95%CI: 1.013-1.103, P=0.011). Conclusions: In male patients with non-obstructive coronary artery disease, abdominal obesity is associated with decreased coronary microvascular function. Male patients with simple abdominal obesity face the highest risk of CMD.

Effects of dietary supplementation of gestating sows with adenosine 5 '-monophosphate or adenosine on placental angiogenesis and vitality of their offspring

Our previous study found that dietary nucleotide supplementation, including adenosine 5 '-monophosphate (AMP), could increase AMP content in sow milk and promote piglet growth, but its effects on placental efficiency and piglet vitality remains unknown. This experiment aimed to investigate the effects of dietary AMP or its metabolite adenosine (ADO) supplementation on sow reproductive performance and placental angiogenesis. A total of 135 sows with a similar farrowing time were blocked by backfat and body weight (BW) at day 65 of gestation, and assigned to 1 of 3 dietary treatment groups (n = 45 per treatment): basal diet, basal diet supplemented with 0.1% AMP, or 0.1% ADO, respectively. Placental analysis and the characteristics of sows and piglets unveiled that compared with control (CON) group, AMP or ADO supplementation could improve sow placental efficiency (P<0.05) and newborn piglet vitality (P<0.05), increase piglet birth weight (P<0.05), and reduce stillbirth rate (P<0.05). More importantly, AMP or ADO supplementation could increase the contents of AMP, ADO, and their metabolites in placentae (P<0.05). Meanwhile, AMP or ADO supplementation could also increase placental vascular density (P<0.05) and the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor A (P<0.05), as well as promote the migration and tube formation of porcine iliac artery endothelial cells (P<0.05). Overall, maternal dietary AMP or ADO supplementation could increase their contents in the placenta, thereby improving placental angiogenesis and neonatal piglet vitality.

Gas-Sensing Properties and Preparation of Waste Mask Fibers/ZnS Composites

To realize the resource utilization of waste mask fibers (MF), a layer of ZnS nanoparticles was grown on MF by a one-step hydrothermal method, and a MF/ZnS sensor was successfully prepared. This is the first time that resource utilization of MF has been combined with the development of a high-performance gas sensor. The MF/ZnS sensor showed high sensitivity and recoverability to target vapors at room temperature. Compared with ZnS powder loaded on a ceramic substrate, the MF/ZnS composite responses to four analytes have been improved by 8.4~35.2 times. In addition, the time for the MF/ZnS sensor to complete one response-recovery cycle for all four analytes was less than 30 s. This should be attributed to the high gas permeability of the MF substrate, which made the ZnS particles loaded on the MF more fully exposed to contact with the target vapors. This work not only provides a simple and low-cost method to optimize the sensing performance of gas sensors but also provides a new way for the resource utilization of MF.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11664-022-09644-1.

[Lung cancer combined with connective tissue disease-related interstitial lung disease: CT features]

Objective: To investigate the CT features and dynamic changes of new developed lung cancer in patients with connective tissue disease-related interstitial lung disease (CTD-ILD). Methods: A series of chest CT images of 58 CTD-ILD patients during follow-up were collected. The CT features of interstitial lung disease, the initial appearance time of lung cancer, the time of diagnosis of lung cancer, the morphological characteristics (location, shape, size) of lung cancer lesions and the dynamic changes of CT features were analyzed. Results: Among 58 patients, rheumatoid arthritis was the most common (31 cases). Chest CT images showed coexistence of two or more interstitial CT signs. During the follow-up, a total of 59 lung cancer lesions were found. The median time of lung cancer lesion occurred was 289 days. The median delay in diagnosis was 43 days. There were 44 cases of non-small cell lung cancer (including 23 cases of squamous cell carcinoma and 19 cases of adenocarcinoma), 12 cases of small cell lung cancer. Forty-three (72.9%) lesions were located in the lower lobes and 41 (69.5%) lesions were located in the area of pulmonary interstitial fibrosis. According to CT morphological characteristics of lung cancer, nodular type (37 cases), inflammatory consolidation (12 cases) and intra-honeycomb type (10 cases) were identified. Conclusions: The chest CT features of patients with CTD-ILD are complex. New developed lung cancer is easily missed or misdiagnosed in the early stage. Pay attention to the special CT characteristics of CTD-ILD with lung cancer is helpful for early diagnosis.

[Value of absolute quantification of myocardial perfusion by PET in detecting coronary microvascular disease in patients with non-obstructive coronaries]

Objective: To compare the incidence of coronary microvascular disease (CMVD) between patients with non-obstructive and obstructive coronary arteries. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 97 patients with angina pectoris, who underwent the absolute quantitative PET examination of myocardial perfusion and coronary anatomy examination within 90 days. All patients were divided into two groups: non-obstructive group (72 cases, no stenosis ≥50% in all three coronary arteries) and obstructive group (25 cases, at least one coronary stenosis ≥50%; and at least one coronary stenosis<50%). Quantitative parameters derived from PET including rest myocardial blood flow (RMBF), stress myocardial blood flow (SMBF), coronary flow reserve (CFR) and cardiovascular risk factors were compared between the two groups. CMVD was defined as CFR<2.90 and SMBF<2.17 ml·min(-1)·g(-1). Results: Incidence of CMVD was significant higher in the non-obstructive coronary arteries of the obstructive group than in the non-obstructive coronary arteries of non-obstructive group (47.1% (16/34) vs. 25.5% (55/216), χ(2)=6.738, P=0.009) while incidence of CMVD was similar between non-obstructive and obstructive patients ((44% (11/25) vs. 33.3% (24/72), χ(2)=0.915, P=0.339). RMBF ((0.83±0.14) ml·min(-1)·g(-1) vs. (0.82±0.17) ml·min(-1)·g(-1)), SMBF ((2.13±0.60) ml·min(-1)·g(-1) vs. (1.91±0.50) ml·min(-1)·g(-1)) and CFR (2.59±0.66 vs. 2.36±0.47) were similar between the two groups (all P>0.05). Conclusions: CMVD can occur in non-obstructive coronary arteries in both patients with non-occlusive coronary arteries and patients with obstructive coronary arteries. Prevalence of CMVD is significantly higher in patients with obstructive coronary arteries than in patients with non-obstructive coronary arteries. The CMVD severity is similar between the two groups.

[Comparative analysis of computed tomography texture features between pulmonary inflammatory nodules and lung cancer]

Objective: To investigate the value of computed tomography (CT) texture analysis in differential diagnosis of inflammatory and malignant pulmonary nodules. Methods: The image data of 54 patients with lung cancer and 36 patients with pulmonary inflammatory nodules were retrospectively collected in our hospital. All the patients received chest CT scan. CT texture analysis of entropy, correlation degree and contrast ratio were performed by the MaZda software. The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was established and the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated to evaluate the value of CT texture analysis in differential diagnosis of inflammatory and malignant pulmonary nodules. Results: In the lung cancer group, the value of entropy, correlation degree and contrast ratio were 1.58±0.07, 0.02±0.17 and 8.79±2.59, respectively. In the inflammatory nodules group, the value of entropy, correlation degree and contrast ratio were 1.51±0.04, 0.22±0.16 and 12.53±2.24, respectively. The differences were all statistically significant (P values were 0.008, 0.027, and 0.006, respectively) between two groups. There was not statistically significant difference (P>0.05) in the CT values between the lung cancer group and the inflammatory nodule group based on the non-contrast enhanced CT scan. Meanwhile, there was no statistically significant difference (P>0.05) in the value of entropy, correlation degree or contrast ratio between two groups based on arterial phase or venous phase of contrast enhanced CT. The ROC analysis showed that the AUC in differentiating the lung cancer and inflammatory nodules was 0.821, 0.778 and 0.875, respectively. The AUC of combination of three phases was 0.931, which was higher than the AUC of entropy, correlation degree and contrast ratio respectively (P<0.01). The sensitivity was 88.9%, and the specificity was 87.5%. Conclusion: CT texture analysis is a high-potential image analysis method, which can provide more information for the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant pulmonary nodules.

The relative impact of urbanization and precipitation on long-term water level variations in the Yangtze River Delta

The combined and individual hydrological impacts of climate variation and urbanization have been extensively discussed over the past few decades, yet little is known about the relative impact of each. In this paper we took one of the most developed regions worldwide, Yangtze River Delta, as an example to analyse the long-term relative impacts of precipitation and urbanization change on water level alterations, based on precipitation, water level series, and annual impervious area data from 1960 to 2015. Abrupt changes detection in the water level series divided the data into the pre-impact period (1960-1988) and impacted period (1989-2015), and relative impacts of precipitation and urbanization on the water level increase from pre-impacted to impacted period, as well as their spatial and seasonal variations were estimated with the elasticity method. The results indicated that the urbanization change showed no distinct influence on the water level rise in the pre-impact period, while the precipitation played distinct roles only during summer months in the impacted period; the precipitation dominated two thirds of the water level rise in flood season, and in non-flood season the urbanization controlled the two thirds of the water level rise; spatially, the water level variations in old and new urban area were dominated by precipitation and urbanization process respectively; compared with precipitation amount, the water level correlated more strongly to the contribution ratio of precipitation. The results would provide a good reference for flood control and water resource management in the river basin, especially in the economically developed areas.

[Analysis of the factors affecting the efficacy of (131)I remnant ablation in patients after thyroidectomy for papillary thyroid microcarcinoma]

Objective: To investigate the influential factors of efficacy of the first (131)I ablation therapy for thyroid remnant in papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) patients after thyroidectomy. Methods: Eighty-nine PTMC patients who underwent twice (131)I ablation therapy and (131)I whole body follow-up scan ((131)I-WBS) within 5 to 8 months in our department from September 2007 to October 2016 were identified and enrolled in present study. Patients were divided into complete-ablation group and uncomplete-ablation group according to whether or not radioactivity was detected at the thyroid bed in (131)I-WBS. The χ(2) test and multi-variance Binary logistic regression were performed for the factors which might affect the therapeutic efficacy. Results: The first (131)I ablation therapy was successful in 41 of 89 patients (46.07%). Residual thyroid weight was found to be associated with therapeutic efficacy (P<0.05), while gender, age, surgical method, lesions'maximum diameter, with or without LN metastasis, with or without distant metastasis, time of operation from first (131)I treatment, lesions'number, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroglobulin (Tg), the consistency of (131)I-WBS and (99)Tc(m)-pertechnatate, TNM stage, ATA risk, Tg/TSH ratio were not significant associated with therapeutic efficacy. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed in these respects and it indicated that residual thyroid weight and ATA risk were not statistically significant independent variable (P>0.05). Conclusions: Residual thyroid weight might affect efficacy of the first (131)I ablation therapy on thyroid remnant in PTMC patients after thyroidectomy, but it is not an independent factor. Multiple interrelated factors should be considered when predicting the efficacy of the first (131)I ablation therapy.

[Association between body mass index and its change and type 2 diabetes mellitus risk in a prospective study]

Objective: To investigate the influence of body mass index (BMI) and its change on the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in an adult cohort. Methods: A total of 3 043 subjects randomly selected among those without T2DM at baseline survey from the Rural Deqing Health Cohort Study were included into this study and follow up was conducted for 1 867 of them from July to November 2015. The subjects were divided into 3 groups according to their baseline BMI, normal group (BMI<24.0), overweight group (BMI: 24.0-27.9) and obese group (BMI≥28.0) and the subjects with stable weight (BMI change of-0.05 to + 0.05 per year) were used as the referent category. Cox proportional model was used to estimate associations between BMI, its changes and T2DM. Results: With an average of (8.68±1.25) person years, 213 new T2DM cases, including 125 females were detected, and incidence density was 13.14 per 1 000 person years. After adjusted for other covariates, the risk for incidence of T2DM was significantly higher in subjects with baseline BMI≥28.0 kg/m² than those with baseline BMI<24.0 kg/m² (aHR=2.12, 95% CI: 1.22-3.68), and weight gains were strongly associated with the incidence of T2DM in those with baseline BMI< 24.0 kg/m² (aHR=2.21, 95%CI:1.17-4.17). Conclusion: Both BMI and its change were significantly associated with incidence of T2DM, especially in the population with BMI<24.0 kg/m² at baseline.

Genomewide association studies for hematological traits and T lymphocyte subpopulations in a Duroc × Erhualian F resource population

It has been shown that hematological traits can act as important indicators of immune function in both humans and livestock. T lymphocytes are key components of the adaptive immune system, playing a critical role in immune response. To identify genomic regions affecting hematological traits and T lymphocyte subpopulations, we performed both a SNP-based genomewide association study (GWAS) and a haplotype analysis for 20 hematological traits and 8 T cell subpopulations at 3 different time points (d 20, 33, and 35) in a Duroc × Erhualian F intercross population. Bonferroni correction was used to calculate the threshold -values for suggestive and 5% genomewide significance levels. In total, for SNP-based GWAS, we detected 96 significant SNP, including 15 genomewide-significant SNP, associated with 23 hematological traits and 234 significant SNP, including 27 genomewide-significant SNP, associated with 8 T cell subpopulations. Meanwhile, we identified 563 significant SNP, including 7 genomewide-significant SNP, associated with 5 hematological traits and 2,407 significant SNP, including 1,261 genomewide-significant SNP, associated with 8 T cell subpopulations by haplotype analysis. Among the significant regions detected, we propose both the () gene and the () gene on SSC3 as plausible candidate genes associated with CD/CD T lymphocytes at d 20. The findings provide insights into the basis of molecular mechanisms that are involved with immune response in the domestic pig and would aid further identification of causative mutations.

Biodegradable poly(ethylene glycol)–poly(ε-carprolactone) polymeric micelles with different tailored topological amphiphilies for doxorubicin (DOX) drug delivery

The self-assembly and drug release of the three PEG–PCL copolymers with different topologies but identical molar ratio between PEG to PCL.

First Report of Ginger Rhizome Rot Caused by Fusarium oxysporum in China

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is an important commercial crop that is planted in 60,000 to 70,000 ha every year in Shandong Province, China. In 2010, rotted rhizomes of cultivar Laiwu Big Ginger were reported on 20 ha in Anqiu, Shandong Province, and yield losses of up to 70% were reported. The aboveground symptoms were the water-conducting portion of symptomatic rhizomes was discolored brown and had a black dry rot of the cortex tissues (3). Thirty symptomatic rhizomes were sampled from six fields in six farms. Komada's method (1) was used to isolate the pathogen. Ten pieces from each rhizome were washed with sterile distilled water and plated on Komada selective medium at 25°C. White fungal colonies turned orchid after 7 days of incubation. Two types of asexual spores were associated with the colonies: microconidia and macroconidia. The microconidia were the most abundantly produced spores and were oval, elliptical or kidney shaped, and produced on aerial mycelia. Macroconidia had three to five cells and gradually pointed or curved edges, varied in size from 3 to 5 × 19 to 36 μm. The rDNA of the internal transcribed spacer regions 1 and 2 and the 5.8S gene in five isolates were amplified using primers ITS1 and ITS4, and the nucleotide sequence was the same as isolate no. 3, which was deposited in GenBank (Accession No. KC594035). A BLAST search showed 99% identity with the strain Z9 of Fusarium oxysporum (EF611088). Pathogenicity tests of five isolates were carried out in a greenhouse and the pathogenicity test of isolate no. 3 was selected for the method description. Ten 1-month-old ginger plants (cv. Laiwu Big Ginger) were grown in plastic pots (diameter 20 cm) with sandy soil and inoculated. Ten plants were used as untreated controls. Isolate no. 3 was grown on casein hydrolysate medium (4) for 72 h and the spores were harvested in sterile distilled water. Aqueous spore suspensions of isolate no. 3 were adjusted with deionized water to 1 × 10⁸ CFU/ml as the inoculum. The prepared inoculum was injected with a syringe into the soil around the rhizome of ginger plants. Inoculated plants were placed in the greenhouse at 24 to 26°C and assessed for rhizome rot on the 14th day after inoculation. Disease severity was recorded based on a scale in which - = no symptoms; 1 = small lesions on seedlings, no rot; 2 = seedling rot; and 3 = plant dead. Similar rhizome rot symptoms were observed after inoculation. The inoculated isolate was re-isolated from diseased rhizomes, confirming its pathogenicity. To our knowledge, this is the first report of rhizome rot of ginger caused by F. oxysporum in China. Rhizome rot of ginger caused by Fusarium spp. is well known in Asian countries such as India (2). References: (1) H. Komada. Rev. Plant Prot. Res. 8:114, 1975. (2) V. Shanmugam et al. Biol Control. 66:1, 2013. (3) E. E. Trujillo. Diseases of Ginger (Zingiber officinale) in Hawaii, Circular 62, Hawaii Agricultural Experiment Station, University of Hawaii, December, 1964. (4) G. E. Wessman. Appl. Microbiol. 13:426, 1965.

Semi-automatic laboratory goniospectrometer system for performing multi-angular reflectance and polarization measurements for natural surfaces

In this paper, the design and operation of the Northeast Normal University Laboratory Goniospectrometer System for performing multi-angular reflected and polarized measurements under controlled illumination conditions is described. A semi-automatic arm, which is carried on a rotated circular ring, enables the acquisition of a large number of measurements of surface Bidirectional Reflectance Factor (BRF) over the full hemisphere. In addition, a set of polarizing optics enables the linear polarization over the spectrum from 350 nm to 2300 nm. Because of the stable measurement condition in the laboratory, the BRF and linear polarization has an average uncertainty of 1% and less than 5% depending on the sample property, respectively. The polarimetric accuracy of the instrument is below 0.01 in the form of the absolute value of degree of linear polarization, which is established by measuring a Spectralon plane. This paper also presents the reflectance and polarization of snow, soil, sand, and ice measured during 2010-2013 in order to illustrate its stability and accuracy. These measurement results are useful to understand the scattering property of natural surfaces on Earth.

Postoperative adjuvant transcatheter arterial chemoembolisation improves survival of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma patients with poor prognostic factors: results of a large monocentric series

BACKGROUND

The prognosis of patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is currently unsatisfactory. The aims of this study were to identify prognostic factors after curative ICC resection, and to evaluate the effects of postoperative transcatheter arterial chemoembolisation (TACE).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted of 114 ICC patients who underwent curative resection from January 2005 to December 2006. Relationships between survival and clinicopathological factors were evaluated using univariate and multivariate analyses. The benefits of adjuvant TACE were investigated separately.

RESULTS

The cumulative 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates were 63%, 26%, and 15%, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that tumour size ≥ 5 cm (hazard ratio [HR] 1.875, 95% CI 1.139-3.088, P=0.013) and advanced TNM stage (stage III or IV) (HR 1.681, 95% CI 1.035-2.732, P=0.036) were independently associated with poor prognosis. Fifty-seven patients underwent adjuvant TACE. In patients with poor prognostic factors, TACE improved the survival rate (P<0.001). However, in patients without poor prognostic factors, TACE did not significantly change the survival rate (P=0.724).

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative adjuvant TACE can prolong survival in ICC patients with tumour size ≥ 5 cm or advanced TNM stage.

Expression patterns and association analysis of the porcine DHX58 gene

RIG-1 signalling is responsible for the detection of cytoplasmic viral RNA molecules. DEXH(Asp-Glu-X-His) box polypeptide 58 (encoded by DHX58) is a negative regulator of the RIG-1 signalling pathway. In human, the DHX58 gene can be upregulated and can inhibit the RIG-1 signalling pathway during viral infection. In this study, porcine DHX58 gene expression patterns were studied. According to our results, the porcine DHX58 gene was upregulated not only by the stimulation of Poly I:C but also by the stimulation of lipopolysaccharides (LPS). One polymorphism (g.4919G>C), detected in the ninth intron,was significantly associated with some blood parameters including the red cell distribution width of 1-day-old pigs and white blood cell counts, lymphocyte absolute counts, and platelet distribution width of 17-day-old pigs (P < 0.05). Moreover, the individuals with the genotype GG have a significantly higher mean white blood cell count than individuals with genotype CC or GC (P < 0.05). Our study indicates that DHX58 is an important gene that is associated with the immune response in swine.

Expression and SNP association analysis of porcine FBXL4 gene

As a kind of E3 ligase, the product of FBXL4 gene belongs to a member of FBLs which is the biggest eukaryotic subfamily of F-BOX proteins, it can recognize some substrate through particular protein-protein interaction domains. To investigate its functions, the polymorphism and association analysis was analyzed. The partial cDNA of porcine FBXL4 with 2384 bp long was first cloned; the deduced protein comprises a conserved F-BOX domain at position from the 277th to 332nd amino acid. The phylogenetic tree indicated porcine FBXL4 has the closest genetic relationship with bovine FBXL4 than other selected animal species. Ten tissue expression level of porcine FBXL4 mRNA fluctuated remarkably in a large range by quantitative RT-PCR analysis. For two identified SNPs, the genotyping analysis of Tail showed TT genotype owned dominance in introduced Landrace pig and miniature Guizhou and Wuzhishan breeds, but CC genotype was more than two other genotypes in miniature Laiwu breed. While in another genotyping analysis of BsaJI, CC genotype was obviously more than other genotypes in two kinds of Chinese miniature pig breeds and introduced Landrace pig breeds. Furthermore, the association analysis with immune traits and blood parameters revealed that SNP Tail was significantly associated with the lymphocyte percentage (P = 0.0166) and the antibody levels for pseudorabies virus vaccination (P = 0.0001) of neonate piglets at 0 day. Meanwhile, SNP BsaJI was significantly associated with lymphocyte percentage of individuals at 32 days (P = 0.0351), neutrophil percentage (P = 0.0005), the absolute lymphocyte count (P = 0.0458), and the mixed cells (P = 0.0010) of neonate piglets at 0 day.

Risk assessment and distribution of soil Pb in Guangdong, China

In this study, the spatial distributions of soil lead (Pb) concentration in three horizontal soils in Guangdong, China, were surveyed and analyzed using geostatistics and geography information systems (GIS). Findings indicated that the Pb geometric mean concentration of 23.3 mg/kg in surface soils was found to be higher than those in global soils, which ranged from 2.3-235 mg/kg. In addition, the Pb geometric mean concentrations from A- to C-horizon were found to be 23.3, 27.2, and 28.6 mg/kg, respectively. The classification of a soil Pb environmental risk in an area was likewise presented based on the different levels of environmental quality of Pb and was done by GIS technology. Accordingly, there is a higher local concentration of Pb in the surrounding areas of Guangzhou where there is higher population density and in the north of Guangdong, which is a historic mining area. The results obtained by the environmental risk assessment reveal that about 46% of total surveyed area was above the background value, that is, 2.7% of the total area was at risk of pollution.

Partial molecular characterization, expression pattern, polymorphism and association analysis of porcine SKP2 gene

As a component of E3 ubiquitin protein ligases called SCFs, SKP2 protein belongs to a member of FBLs protein which is the biggest eukaryotic subfamily of F-BOX proteins with 12 members. In this study, we cloned and sequenced partial cDNA, intron 1 and intron 6 of porcine SKP2 gene. The partial cDNA is 1,402 bp long and has an open reading frame of 1,272 bp which encodes 424 putative amino acids. The deduced protein comprises a conserved F-BOX domain at position from the 90th to 140th amino acid. The phylogenetic tree indicated that porcine SKP2 has the closest genetic relationship with bovine SKP2 than other selected animal species. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis displayed that the tissue expression level of porcine SKP2 fluctuated remarkably in a large range, and it expressed in thymus with the highest level and in longissimus dorsi muscle with the lowest level. Two SNPs were identified, meanwhile, further polymorphism analysis with Cfr42I showed that AA genotype was in dominance absolutely among four kinds of unrelated Chinese indigenous miniature and one introduced Landrace pig breeds. In addition, association analysis with immune traits and blood parameters revealed that the SNP Cfr42I in intron 1 was significantly associated with red cell distribution width of neonate piglets at 0 day (P = 0.027).

Baseline concentrations and spatial distribution of trace metals in surface soils of Guangdong province, China

A total of 260 surface soil samples were collected to investigate the spatial distribution of trace metals in Guangdong province, one of the fast developing regions in China. The results show that the upper baseline concentrations of Cu, Pb, Zn, Cd, Ni, Cr, and Hg were 28.7, 57.6, 77.8, 0.13, 23.5, 87.0, and 0.15 mg kg(-1), respectively. Regional parent materials and pedogenesis are the primary factors influencing the concentrations of trace metals, and various anthropogenic activities are the second most important factors. The spatial distribution of trace metals is correlated to the geological characters with high concentrations of trace metals always located in regional fault areas, basins, and the Pearl River Delta alluvial plain and to the low concentrations associated with the other areas in Guangdong province.

Spatial distributions and potential risk analysis of total soil selenium in Guangdong Province, China

A total of 260 soil profiles were examined to investigate the spatial distribution of total soil selenium (Se) in Guangdong province, China. In the investigated area, the soil Se concentrations follow an approximately lognormal distribution. The soil Se geometric mean concentration of 0.23 mg kg(-1) is higher than that of Chinese soils; however, Se concentration varies over the study area. The baseline concentration of 0.13 to 0.41 mg kg(-1) indicates that the soil Se concentration is mostly in the range of deficiency to medium level for surface soils in Guangdong province. In A-, B-, and C-horizon, soil Se spatial distribution is correlated with the nature of the parent material, with high Se concentration mainly located in limestone and sandshale areas and low Se concentration associated with purple shale and granite areas. The spatial distribution pattern of soil Se concentrations suggests that potential Se deficiency may be an issue for human health in this province. Moreover, due to soil degradation and erosion, calculated soil Se exported into surrounding waters could reach approximately 23,000 kg yr(-1) in the study area.

Spatial distribution and vertical variation of arsenic in Guangdong soil profiles, China

Total of 260 soil profiles were reported to investigate the arsenic spatial distribution and vertical variation in Guangdong province. The arsenic concentration followed an approximately lognormal distribution. The arsenic geometric mean concentration of 10.4 mg/kg is higher than that of China. An upper baseline concentration of 23.4 mg/kg was estimated for surface soils. The influence of soil properties on arsenic concentration was not important. Arsenic spatial distributions presented similar patterns that high arsenic concentration mainly located in limestone, and sandshale areas, indicating that soil arsenic distribution was dependent on bedrock properties than anthropogenic inputs. Moreover, from A- to C-horizon arsenic geometric mean concentrations had an increasing tendency of 10.4, 10.7 to 11.3 mg/kg. This vertical variation may be related to the lower soil organic matter and soil degradation and erosion. Consequently, the soil arsenic export into surface and groundwaters would reach 1040 t year-1 in the study area.

[Studies on morphology and histology of medicinal part of Corydalis yanhusuo]

OBJECTIVE

To Study the morphology, microstructure and morphosis of medicinal part of Corydalis yanhusuo, and provide a basis for the knowledge of the type of modified stem of Corydalis yanhusuo and the identification of crude drug.

METHOD

Sample collection, culture observation and microsectile observation.

RESULT

Morphological and histological characters and morphogenetic and developmental regulation of medicinal part of Corydalis yanhusuo are described with pictures.

CONCLUSION

The medicinal part of Corydalis yanhusuo is bulb, and the conception that the medicinal part of Corydalis yanhusuo is tuber is wrong.

[Polymorphism of porcine hormone sensitive lipase gene and sequencing the partial DNA fragments]

Hormone sensitive lipase (HSL) is a key enzyme in fat metabolism. The polymorphism of the pig HSL gene is studied in this paper. The SSCP (Single Strand Conformational Polymorphism) is found in the HSL gene Exon 8. It shows three genotypes (MM, MN, NN). Fat-type pig breeds of Meishan and Tongcheng pigs have more allele M, with frequencies of 0.690 M and 0.740 M, respectively; however, lean-type pig breeds of Landrace and the Large White pigs have more allele N, with frequencies of 0.847 N and 0.845 N, respectively. PCR fragments representing HSL genotypes MM and NN are sequenced. Two A-->G transitions are detected, and it resulted in corresponding changes of amino acid (Asn-->Asp and Glu-->Gly) in the HSL protein, respectively. The HSL gene can be considered as a candidate gene for fatness in pigs.

RhoC GTPase, a novel transforming oncogene for human mammary epithelial cells that partially recapitulates the inflammatory breast cancer phenotype

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is the most aggressive form of breast cancer and is phenotypically distinct from other forms of locally advanced breast cancer. In a previous study, we identified specific genetic alterations of IBC that could account for a highly invasive phenotype. RhoC GTPase was overexpressed in 90% of IBC archival tumor samples, but not in stage-matched, non-IBC tumors. To study the role of RhoC GTPase in contributing to an IBC-like phenotype, we generated stable transfectants of human mammary epithelial cells overexpressing the RhoC gene. The HME-RhoC transfectants formed large colonies under anchorage-independent growth conditions, were more motile, and were invasive. In conjunction with an increase in motility, overexpression of RhoC led to an increase in actin stress fiber and focal adhesion contact formation. Furthermore, orthotopic injection into immunocompromised mice led to tumor formation. Taken together, these data indicate that RhoC GTPase is a transforming oncogene in human mammary epithelial cells and can lead to a highly invasive phenotype, akin to that seen in IBC.

RhoC GTPase overexpression modulates induction of angiogenic factors in breast cells

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a distinct and aggressive form of locally advanced breast cancer. IBC is highly angiogenic, invasive, and metastatic at its inception. Previously, we identified specific genetic alterations of IBC that contribute to this highly invasive phenotype. RhoC GTPase was overexpressed in 90% of archival IBC tumor samples, but not in stage-matched, non-IBC tumors. To study the role of RhoC GTPase in contributing to an IBC-like phenotype, we generated stable transfectants of human mammary epithelial cells overexpressing the RhoC gene, and studied the effect of RhoC GTPase overexpression on the modulation of angiogenesis in IBC. Levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-8 (IL-8) were significantly higher in the conditioned media of the HME-RhoC transfectants than in the untransfected HME and HME-beta-galactosidase control media, similar to the SUM149 IBC cell line. Inhibition of RhoC function by introduction of C3 exotransferase decreased production of angiogenic factors by the HME-RhoC transfectants and the SUM149 IBC cell line, but did not affect the control cells. These data support the conclusion that overexpression of RhoC GTPase is specifically and directly implicated in the control of the production of angiogenic factors by IBC cells.

A novel putative low-affinity insulin-like growth factor-binding protein, LIBC (lost in inflammatory breast cancer), and RhoC GTPase correlate with the inflammatory breast cancer phenotype

Inflammatory breast cancer is a rapidly growing, distinct form of locally advanced breast cancer that carries a guarded prognosis. To identify the genes that contribute to this aggressive phenotype, we compared under- and overexpressed sequences in an inflammatory breast tumor cell line with those of actively replicating normal human mammary epithelial cell lines using differential display. Of the 17 transcripts isolated and characterized from these experiments, overexpression of RhoC GTPase and loss of expression of a novel gene on 6q22, LIBC (lost in inflammatory breast cancer), were highly correlated (P<0.0095 and P<0.0013, respectively) with the inflammatory phenotype when a panel of archival inflammatory breast cancers was compared with noninflammatory stage III breast cancers by in situ hybridization. This study suggests two new molecular markers specific for inflammatory breast cancer.

Assessment of polystyrene extract for estrogenic activity in the rat uterotrophic model and an in vitro recombinant receptor reporter gene assay

The purpose of the study was to determine whether polystyrene used in food-contact applications would elicit an estrogenic response when extracts simulating exaggerated conditions of use were subjected to in vivo and in vitro tests. A sample of polystyrene was subjected to extraction conditions that simulate, or exaggerate, the actual food-contact uses of polystyrene to maximize the amount of low molecular weight polystyrene extractables. The food-simulating solvent and the time and temperature conditions recommended by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) were selected to maximize the level of extractable components from polystyrene. The extract was examined for its estrogenic response in vivo using the immature rat uterotrophic assay and in vitro using an estrogen receptor (ER)-mediated recombinant receptor reporter gene assay. In vivo, the uterine weights of juvenile female Sprague Dawley rats (10 rats/group) were determined after oral gavage exposure to the extract (two dosage levels: one represents the maximum potential daily human exposure to polystyrene extractables and the other represents one-tenth of the maximum exposure level), vehicle control (sesame oil), or positive control [diethylstilbestrol (DES), at 200 micrograms/kg body weight]. In addition, five treatment groups were dosed by subcutaneous injection of either estradiol (1, 50, and 500 micrograms/kg body weight) or DES (2 and 200 micrograms/kg body weight). Dosing began on postnatal day (pnd) 21 and continued daily through pnd 23. Body weights were collected at study initiation (pnd 21) and at necropsy (pnd 24). Body weights were not different statistically between treatment groups at study initiation or at necropsy. Uterine wet weights and uterine weights relative to body weights were significantly increased (p < 0.05) for estradiol at 50 and 500 micrograms/kg, DES at 2 and 200 micrograms/kg, and DES at 200 micrograms/kg (oral) over vehicle control. The polystyrene extract had no effect on uterine wet weight or uterine weights relative to body weights at either level tested. An in vitro recombinant estrogen receptor/reporter gene assay that involved transiently transfecting MCF-7 human breast cancer cells with the chimeric human ER, Ga14-HEGO, consisting of the yeast Ga14 DNA binding domain linked to the ligand binding domain of the human ER and a Ga14 response element (17mer)-regulated reporter gene (17m5-G-Luc) was employed. Dose-dependent induction of the reporter gene, 17m5-G-Luc, was observed with the positive control, 17 beta-estradiol (E2). Induction of greater than 100-fold was obtained following incubation of transfected MCF-7 cells with 10 nM E2 for 24 hours. No induction of reporter gene activity was observed with the polystyrene extracts dissolved in dimethylsulfoxide (0.01, 0.1 or 0.01 mg/ml) using the same assay conditions. These results indicate that polystyrene extract does not elicit ER-mediated activity using the Ga14-HEGO/17m5-G-Luc recombinant receptor/reporter gene assay. In conclusion, extracts from polystyrene produced no estrogenic response in either the rat uterotrophic assay or the MCF-7 cell assay for estrogen receptor-mediated activity.

[Effects of Gu Chi paste on PGE(2) in periodontitis tissues of guinea pigs]

OBJECTIVE: Study the effects of Gu Chi paste on PGE(2) in gingiva and alveolar bone and its mechanism to treating periodontitis. METHODS: Periodontitis were formed with silk thread suture and high sugar diet,fed guinea pigs on Gu Chi paste and indomethacin.The prostaglandin E(2)(PGE(2)) in gingiva and alveolar bone were measured with radioimmunoassay (RIA). RESULTS: The Gingival Index(GI) and Pocket Deep(PD) of group Periodontitis (PE) were bigger than group Normal(N),the alveolar bone absorbed more severe,the PGE(2) level in gingiva and alveolar bone in PE was higherthan that in N.The GI and PD of group Gu Chi paste(Gu) were lower than that of PE,its alveolar bone absorbed more slight.There were more significant difference of PGE(2) in alveolar bone between Gu and group indomethacin(IND).The PGE(2) level of Gu in gingiva were similar as that of IND. CONCUSION: Gu Chi paste can inhibite the formation of experimental periodontitis and the contents of PGE(2) in gingiva and alveolar bone,and the effect on PGE(2) in alveolar was more severe. The mechanism of Gu Chi paste to periodontitis has inhibitory effects on PGE(2) in gingiva and alveolar bone.

Examination of the in vitro and in vivo estrogenic activities of eight commercial phthalate esters

The estrogenic activities of eight phthalate esters (i.e., di-2-ethylhexyl, di-n-butyl (DBP), butylbenzyl (BBP), di-hexyl (DHP), diiso-heptyl, di-n-octyl, diiso-nonyl, diiso-decyl) were investigated in vitro using estrogen receptor (ER) competitive ligand-binding and mammalian- and yeast-based gene expression assays. In vivo, their effects on uterine wet weight and vaginal cell cornification using ovariectomized Sprague-Dawley rats were assessed. DBP, BBP, and DHP weakly competed with 17 beta-estradiol (E2) for binding to the ER in competitive ligand-binding assays. In gene expression assays using MCF-7 cells transiently transfected with the Gal4-human estrogen receptor construct, Gal4-HEGO, and the Gal4-regulated luciferase reporter gene, 17m5-G-Luc, 10 microM DBP, BBP, or DHP exhibited 36, 42, and 20% activity, respectively, when compared to the 100% response observed with 10 nM E2. Only BBP was found to induce luciferase activity (32%) in HeLa cells stably transfected with Gal4-HEGO and 17m5-G-Luc constructs and to impart minimal ER-mediated viability to the E2-dependent recombinant yeast strain, PL3, on selective medium. No significant responses were observed with the other phthalate esters in any of the in vitro assays. In vivo, none of the eight phthalate esters reproducibly induced significant increases in uterine wet weight in immature ovariectomized Sprague-Dawley rats treated with oral doses of 20, 200, or 2000 mg/kg of phthalate ester. In addition, treatment with phthalate esters at the same doses did not affect the degree of vaginal epithelial cell cornification in mature ovariectomized rats. These results indicate that only selected phthalate esters (i.e., DBP, BBP, and DHP) exhibit weak ER-mediated activity in some in vitro assays at high concentrations but none of the eight phthalate esters elicited in vivo estrogenic responses based upon results obtained from uterotrophic and vaginal cornification assays.

Identification of a motif within the 5' regulatory region of pS2 which is responsible for AP-1 binding and TCDD-mediated suppression

2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) and related compounds modulate several endocrine systems by altering hormone synthesis, enhancing ligand metabolism, and down-regulating receptor levels/binding activity. Previous studies have demonstrated that TCDD inhibits the 17beta-estradiol (E2)-induction of pS2, a human breast cancer prognostic marker. This inhibition occurs at the gene expression level and is Ah receptor (AhR)-mediated. Analysis of the 5' regulatory region has identified three motifs which resemble dioxin response element (DRE) core sequences. pS2-regulated luciferase deletion constructs identified the DRE-like motif located at -527 to -514 as being required for TCDD-mediated suppression. A point mutation within this core motif (T-518C) abolished the inhibition by TCDD while UV-induced protein-DNA cross-linking and competitive gel retardation assays demonstrated AhR complex binding to this motif. Further study of this region also revealed an adjacent putative AP-1 site, diverging by one base pair from the consensus sequence. Gel retardation assays using TPA-treated MCF-7 cell nuclear extracts showed an induced complex binding to the AP-1-like site. Competition studies and antibody supershifts confirmed that the retarded complex consists of AP-1-like proteins. pS2-regulated luciferase constructs containing mutations specific to the AP-1-like motif greatly diminished the inducibility in response to E2. These results suggest that an interaction between AhR complexes and AP-1-like proteins may be responsible for TCDD-mediated inhibition of E2-induced pS2 expression.

[The formation of experimental periodontitis of Guinea pig]

This investigation was used silk suture and high sugar to study the formation of experimental periodontitis.The results showed that the gingival index(GI) and periodontal deep(PD) of all experimental Guinea pig were increased in the first week.There were more lymphocytes and plasmacytes in gingival proper layer in the second week.The plasmacytes and macrophages in gingival proper layer were increased much more in 4th week and alveolar bone was absorbed less,and there were more osteoclasts lying in resorpted area of alveolar bone.In the 8th week,the alveolar bone were resorpted more severe.There were more osteoblasts in the resorpted alveolar bone area besides the osteoclaste.The lysosome and endoplasmic veticulum in lymphocytes were increased.The osteoclasts near resorpted alveolar bone had several nucleus,and there were more lysosome chondriosome and endoplasmic veticulum,and the osteoclasts activity were increased,which suggests that silk suture and high sugar can form experimental periodontitis to Guinea pig and the formation time of experimental periodontitis was in the 4th week later.

[The effects of fibronectin on DNA synthesis and ultrastructure of periodontal ligament cells]

Microspectrophotometer and transmitted electron microscope (TEM) were used to study the change of DNA synthesis and ultrastructure after fibronection(FN) acted on cultured periodontal ligament cells (PDLC).The results showed that the data of nuclus area,nuclus total absorbs and nuclus mean absorbs of PDLC in FN group was higher than control(P<0.01).Under the TEM we observed that in FN group there were more euchromatin in cell nuclues and more organ cells such as microfilaments,chondriosomes and endoplasmic reticulum in cytoplasm.It suggested that FN can accelerate periodontal regeneration by promoting DNA and protein synthesis of PDLC.

Antiestrogenic effect of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin on 17 beta-estradiol-induced pS2 expression

2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) exhibits a broad spectrum of antiestrogenic activities in rodents and mammalian cells in culture. The effects of TCDD on 17 beta-estradiol (E2)-induction of pS2, a prognostic marker for breast cancer, were investigated in MCF-7, ZR-75, HeLa, and Hepa 1c1c7 wild-type and mutant cells. These effects were compared to the suppressive activities of the congener, 2,8-dichlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, and the established antiestrogens, ICI 164,384 and tamoxifen, in order to determine the relative potency of TCDD and to distinguish the mechanism of action of Ah receptor-mediated antiestrogens. Treatment of MCF-7 cells with 10 nM TCDD decreased E2-induced secreted pS2 protein levels by 50% and the induction of the transiently transfected -1100 to -86 pS2 promoter-regulated reporter gene (pS2-LUC) by 57%. Comparable effects on PS2-LUC activity were observed in HeLa and ZR-75 cells. In contrast, TCDD had minimal effects on pS2ERE(-405 to -393)-LUC induction, whereas treatment with 10 nM ICI 164,384 caused a 60% decrease in luciferase activity. In Hepa 1c1c7 wild-type and clone 1 (C1) mutant cells, TCDD also reduced E2 induction of pS2-LUC activity but had little effect in clone 4 (C4) or clone 12 (C12) mutant cells. However, suppression was reestablished following transfection of the human Ah receptor nuclear translocator (ARNT) complementary DNA expression vector into C4 cells and the mouse Ah receptor (AhR) complementary DNA expression vector into C12 cells. Induction of pS2-LUC activity by the ligand-dependent and -independent chimeric estrogen receptors (HE15, HE19, ERcVP16, and ERGR) were also used to examine the role of E2 metabolism and the mechanism of TCDD-mediated antiestrogenic activity. Induction by HE15 and ERcVP16 was suppressed by 57 and 74%, respectively, following treatment with TCDD, whereas ICI 164,384 was significantly less effective (38 and 20%, respectively). These results demonstrate a role for the Ah receptor in TCDD-mediated suppression of E2-induced pS2 expression. Data is presented demonstrating that the effect requires sequences within the pS2 promoter other than the estrogen response element and is independent of E2 oxidative metabolism.

[The relationship between periodontal diseases and prostacyclin in saliva of periodontal patients by RIA]

The purpose of this investigation was to measure the changes of Prostacyclin(PG12) occuring in gingivitis and periodontitis.Fifteen cases of periodontitis,ten cases of gingivitis and ten cases of healthy participated in this study,Saliva was taken before treatment,Prostacyclin in saliva was measure by radioimmunoassay(RIA).The results showed that prostacyclin of human saliva is increased from healthy gingivitis to periodontitis.There is a statistical difference between groups,6-k-PGF1alpha in saliva of periodontitis is 3.6 folds of healthy.Gingivitis is 2.6 folds of healthy.There is also a significant difference between adult periodontitis our findings suggested that prostacyclin may play an important role in etiology of periodontal disease.Measured 6-k-PGF1alpha in saliva may indicate the severity of periodontal disease.

[Serum lipids and apolipoproteins AI, B100, CI, CII, and CIII in 142 patients with coronary heart disease]

Serum triglycerides (TG), cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and apolipoproteins AI, B100, CI, CII and CIII were analyzed in 142 patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) and 64 age-matched healthy subjects in the Chengdu area. Significantly increased TG and decreased HDL-C were found in the CHD patients (P less than 0.001). Serum apo AI and CII were significantly decreased in the CHD patients compared with the normal subjects (P less than 0.01 or P less than 0.001). Serum apo B100 and CIII were slightly higher in the CHD group than in the normal group (P less than 0.001 or P less than 0.05). No significant differences were observed in apo CI levels in the CHD patients when compared with the normal subjects. The results were discussed.

[Serum lipids and apolipoproteins AI, B100, CI and CII in patients with apoplexy]

Serum triglycerides, cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol and apolipoproteins (apo) AI, B100. CI and CII were determined and analyzed in 72 apoplectic patients and 64 age-matched normal subjects. Significantly increased triglycerides, low HDL-C and slightly decreased cholesterol levels were found in the apoplectics. Apo AI was slightly decreased and apo B100 slightly increased in the apoplectics compared with normal subjects. Apo CI and CII levels were significantly decreased in the apoplectics. The results are discussed.