Short-term outcomes of robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery for brainstem hemorrhage: A case-control study

Objective

This work focused on investigating if robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery improved middle term vital outcome for primary brainstem hemorrhage (PBSH).

Methods

This work obtained clinical data from patients with PBSH admitted from July 2019 to August 2021. All cases were classified as surgical or conservative treatment group. The general information, Glasgow coma scale (GCS) score, Glasgow outcome score (GOS), along with survival time in patients 60 days after robot-assisted surgery were recorded and analyzed.

Results

A prospective analysis was performed on 82 cases meeting eligibility criteria, including 36 from surgical group whereas 46 from the conservative group. Sixty days after onset, the death rate was found to be 19.44% and 50.00% of surgical and conservative groups, separately (cases versus controls, P < 0.05). Furthermore, postoperative GOS and GCS scores of surgical group were significantly higher, and hydrocephalus was lower compared with conservative group. Central fever incidence did not exhibit any significant difference between two groups.

Conclusion

Robot-assisted PBSH drainage may improve survivorship and reduce the occurrence of hydrocephalus.

Comparison of endoscopic evacuation, craniotomy, and puncture aspiration for the treatment of spontaneous basal ganglia intracerebral hematoma

OBJECTIVE

To compare the prognosis of patients with spontaneous basal ganglia intracerebral hematoma treated by endoscopic evacuation, craniotomy, or puncture aspiration.

METHODS

This retrospective observational study included information from patients with basal ganglia hematoma who received craniotomy, endoscopic evacuation, or puncture aspiration in the Department of Neurosurgery of the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC between January 2016 and May 2021. Patients were grouped according to their treatment method for comparison.

RESULTS

From a total of 184 patients, 62 cases (51 males, aged 54.44 ± 9.92 years) received craniotomy, 64 cases (45 males, aged 53.97 ± 11.87 years) received endoscopic evacuation, and 58 cases (43 males, aged 54.25 ± 10.35 years) received puncture aspiration. No significant difference was found in baseline characteristics among three surgical procedures. Patients in the endoscopy group had the shortest hospital stay (15.16 ± 4.89 days vs. 17.88 ± 5.97 and 20.77 ± 6.96 days), lowest infectious meningitis [1(1.6 %) vs. 2(3.4%) and 8(12.9%)] and pulmonary infection [3(4.7%) vs. 5(8.6%) and 13(21.0%)] rates, and highest hematoma removal rate (90.39 ± 5.22% vs. 35.87 ± 6.23 and 84.76 ± 4.91%) and Glasgow outcome scale 6 months after surgery (4.41 ± 0.53 vs. 3.74 ± 1.09 and 3.81 ± 1.03). The occurrence of gastrointestinal bleeding, epilepsy, and mortality were similar (all p > 0.05) among the groups.

CONCLUSION

Patients with spontaneous basal ganglia intracerebral hematoma who received endoscopic evacuation might have better prognosis than those treated with craniotomy or puncture aspiration. In future, endoscopic surgery could become the most common method for treating spontaneous basal ganglia hemorrhages.

Shunt-Dependent Post-Traumatic Hydrocephalus: Predictors and Long-Term Functional Outcomes

INTRODUCTION

As a disorder of the brain in adults and children, traumatic brain injury (TBI) is considered the major cause of mortality and morbidity. As a serious complication of TBI, post-traumatic hydrocephalus (PTH) is commonly identified and significantly associated with neurocognitive impairment, motor dysfunction, and growth impairment. The long-term functional outcomes after shunt dependence are totally not clear.

METHODS

This study included 6279 patients between 2012 and 2022. To identify the unfavorable functional outcomes and the PTH-related factors, we carried out univariable logistic regression analyses. To identify the occurrence time of PTH, we conducted the log-rank test and Kaplan-Meier analysis.

RESULTS

Mean patient age was 51.03 ± 22.09 years. Of the 6279 patients with TBI, 327 developed PTH (5.2%). Several PTH development-associated factors, such as intracerebral hematoma, diabetes, longer initial hospital stay, craniotomy, low GCS (Glasgow Coma Scale), EVD (external ventricular drain), and DC (decompressive craniectomy) (p < 0.01), were identified. We also analyzed the factors of unfavorable outcomes after TBI including > 80 years, repeated operations, hypertension, EVD, tracheotomy, and epilepsy (p < 0.01). Ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) itself is not an independent factor of the unfavorable outcome but shunt complication is a strong independent factor of unfavorable outcome (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

We should emphasize the practices that can minimize the risks of shunt complications. Additionally, the rigorous radiographic and clinical surveillance will benefit those patients at high risk of developing PTH.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, ChiCTR2300070016.

Visual Working Memory Capacity in Patients with Temporal Lobe Glioma

INTRODUCTION

Working memory (WM) refers to the temporary storage and manipulation of information. Short-term memory storage can be divided into separate subsystems for verbal information and visual information. We explored the capacity of visual WM in patients with temporal lobe glioma.

METHODS

In this study, we assessed 30 patients with temporal lobe glioma and 30 healthy controls (HCs) using a method that combined memory tests with visual WM tasks (digital span task, spatial capacity N-back task, and emotional N-back task).

RESULTS

The results revealed that groups did not differ in terms of demographics, estimated intelligence, and level of psyc distress. For visual WM tasks, statistically significant differences were not found on the 1-back tasks and forward versions of simple span tasks between the temporal patient (TP) group and the HC group. Analysis of correct responses of the experimental tasks suggested that the TP group was significantly different from the HC group in the 2-back tasks and backward versions of simple span tasks. For reaction times, spatial capacity 2-back task and emotional 2-back task showed the TP group was significantly different from the HC group.

CONCLUSION

These findings revealed that visual WM scores of temporal glioma patients were lower than HCs, and hence, the temporal lobe may be a certain neuroanatomical structure in the WM network.

Cathelicidin LL-37 improves bone metabolic balance in rats with ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis via the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway

Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by low bone mineral density (BMD) and impaired bone microarchitecture due to the abnormal activity of osteoclasts. Cathelicidins are antimicrobial peptides present in the lysosomes of macrophages and polymorphonuclear leukocytes. LL-37, a cathelicidin, induces various biological effects, including modulation of the immune system, angiogenesis, wound healing, cancer growth, as well as inflammation, and bone loss. A previous study reported direct involvement of LL-37 suppressing osteoclastogenesis in humans. Here, we examined the role of LL-37 in the treatment of osteoporosis using an ovariectomy (OVX) rat model. Our results showed that LL-37 significantly reduced bone loss and pathological injury in OVX rats with osteoporosis. Furthermore, we found that LL-37 significantly increased the activity of the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway in OVX rats with osteoporosis, including the increased expression of beta-catenin, Osterix (Osx), and Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), whereas XAV-939, an inhibitor of the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway, significantly blocked the effects of LL-37 on bone loss and abnormal bone metabolism. Altogether, our findings suggested that LL-37 exerted a protective role in regulating bone loss and abnormal bone metabolism in rats with osteoporosis by activating the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway.

Correlations of CYP11B2 gene polymorphisms with eclampsia

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between CYP11B2 gene polymorphisms and eclampsia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 400 pregnant women treated in our hospital were enrolled in this study, including 200 normal pregnant women (pregnancy group) and 200 pregnant women with eclampsia (eclampsia group). Peripheral blood was collected from subjects of the two groups. Subsequently, genomic deoxyribonucleic acids (DNAs) were extracted and amplified via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detection of CYP11B2 rs4543, rs3802228 and rs104894072 polymorphisms. The expression level of CYP11B2 gene was measured as well. Additionally, the correlations of CYP11B2 gene polymorphisms with blood pressure and coagulation and renal function indexes were analyzed.

RESULTS

The distribution of alleles of rs4543 locus in CYP11B2 gene was significantly different between eclampsia group and pregnancy group (p=0.027). The frequency of the allele C was significantly lower in eclampsia group than that of pregnancy group (p<0.05). There was a statistically significant difference in the genotype distribution of CYP11B2 rs3802228 (p=0.000) and rs104894072 (p=0.000) between eclampsia group and pregnancy group (p<0.05). Meanwhile, the frequency of AA genotype of rs3802228 and TG genotype of rs104894072 was remarkably higher in eclampsia group than that in pregnancy group (p<0.05). The distribution of the locus rs104894072 (p=0.044) in dominant model and rs3802228 (p=0.002) in recessive model in eclampsia group was different from that in pregnancy group (p<0.05). Eclampsia group showed remarkably elevated frequency of TT + TG of the locus rs104894072 in dominant model and lowered frequency of AG + GG of the locus rs3802228 in recessive model (p<0.05). Similarly, a significant difference was observed in the distribution of the haplotypes CGG (p=0.001) and TGT (p=0.048) in CYP11B2 gene between eclampsia group and pregnancy group (p<0.05). The linkage disequilibrium of the loci rs3802228 and rs104894072 was relatively high (D'=0.382). The polymorphism of the locus rs104894072 in CYP11B2 gene had an evident relation to CYP11B2 gene expression (p<0.05). Meanwhile, the expression of CYP11B2 gene was markedly higher in patients with GG genotype in eclampsia group (p<0.05). The polymorphism of CYP11B2 rs4543 was notably associated with PT level of patients in eclampsia group (p=0.000). Conversely, rs3802228 polymorphism was correlated with 24 h urine protein level (p=0.000). Besides, the proportion of patients with CGG haplotype was significantly larger among patients with systolic blood pressure of 140-160 mmHg (p<0.05). In addition, the proportion of patients with TGT haplotype was evidently greater among patients with systolic blood pressure >180 mmHg in eclampsia group (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

CYP11B2 gene polymorphisms are significantly correlated with the development and progression of eclampsia.

Risk Factors for Cerebral Infarction After Moderate or Severe Traumatic Brain Injury

Purpose

Posttraumatic cerebral infarction (PTCI) is a common and relatively serious complication of traumatic brain injury (TBI) without a clear etiology. Evaluating risk factors in advance is particularly important to predict and avoid the occurrence of PTCI.

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 297 patients with moderate to severe TBI admitted to the Department of Neurosurgery in our hospital from January 2019 to September 2020 and evaluated the effects of various factors such as age, sex, admission Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), skull base fracture, subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), brain herniation, hypotensive shock, and decompressive craniectomy on the incidence of PTCI. We also performed a multivariate logistics regression analysis on the relevant factors identified and evaluated the diagnostic value of each risk factor in advance by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses.

Results

Among the patients, 32 (10.77%) suffered PTCI. The incidence rates of PTCI in those with GCS scores of 3–8 and 9–12 were 15.87% (30/189) and 1.85% (2/108), respectively, while the rates were 18.84% (13/69), 15.03% (29/193), 18.57% (13/70), and 20.59% (14/68) in those with skull base fractures, traumatic SAH, brain herniation, and hypotensive shock, respectively, and 14.38% (23/160) in those who underwent decompressive craniectomy. These differences in PTCI incidence were statistically significant. However, the differences in PTCI incidence caused by patient age and sex were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Low GCS score, skull base fractures, traumatic SAH, brain herniation, hypotensive shock, and decompressive craniectomy are risk factors for the occurrence of PTCI, while age and sex are not significantly correlated with the occurrence of PTCI.

Changes in intestinal flora in preeclampsia rats and effects of probiotics on their inflammation and blood pressure

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in intestinal flora in preeclampsia rats and the effects of probiotics on their inflammation and blood pressure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 40 Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) Wistar rats were randomly selected in this study. Abdominal operation was performed to reduce uterine blood perfusion, so as to establish the model of preeclampsia in rats. All rats were randomly divided into two groups, namely, observation group (treated with probiotics, n=20) and control group (not treated with probiotics, n=20). Subsequently, the changes in serum endotoxin level during intervention, the 24-h urinary 99mTc-diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA) excretion rate, and intestinal flora colonization ability after intervention were compared between the two groups. The distribution of intestinal flora after intervention was recorded in the two groups. Meanwhile, vascular endothelial function and blood pressure following intervention were compared between the two groups as well. In addition, the changing trend of inflammatory cytokines during intervention in the two groups, and the correlation of colonization ability of intestinal flora with changes in systolic blood pressure and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) level in patients were analyzed.

RESULTS

At 3 days and 1 week after intervention, serum endotoxin level in the observation group was significantly lower than that in the control group at the same period (p<0.05). Following intervention, observation group exhibited remarkably higher excretion rate of 24-h urinary 99mTc-DTPA (p<0.05), stronger colonization ability of intestinal flora (p<0.05), higher levels of Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus in intestinal flora (p<0.05), lower level of endothelin-1 (ET-1) (p<0.05) and higher level of nitric oxide (NO) (p<0.05) than the control group. In addition, the systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure in the observation group were basically normal, which were both notably lower than those in the control group (p<0.05). At 3 days and 1 week after intervention, the levels of serum inflammatory cytokine hs-CRP in the observation group was markedly lower than that in the control group (p<0.05) at the same period. Furthermore, the colonization ability of intestinal flora was negatively associated with the changes in systolic blood pressure and hs-CRP level in patients (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Treating preeclampsia rats with probiotics can effectively reduce the level of serum endotoxin, improve the body's capacity to eliminate metabolites and the colonization ability of intestinal flora, maintain the stability of intestinal flora, enhance vascular endothelial function, and reduce blood pressure and the body's inflammatory responses.

Effect of lncRNA-BLACAT1 on drug resistance of non-small cell lung cancer cells in DDP chemotherapy by regulating cyclin D1 expression

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of long non-coding ribonucleic acid (lncRNA)-bladder cancer associated transcript 1 (BLACAT1) on the drug resistance of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells in cisplatin (DDP) chemotherapy by regulating the expression of Cyclin D1.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The analysis of the lncRNA expression profiles in 483 cases of NSCLC tissues and 347 cases of cancer-adjacent tissues in Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database revealed that lncRNA-BLACAT1 was differentially expressed in NSCLC and related to prognosis. In order to further study its mechanism of action on DDP-resistant cells, the expression level of lncRNA-BLACAT1 in normal human lung bronchial epithelial cell line BEAS-2B, NSCLC cell line A549, and DDP-resistant cell line A549 (A549/DDP) was detected by quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR). LncRNA-BLACAT1 small interfering RNA (siRNA) (si-BLACAT1) and lncRNA-BLACAT1 negative control (si-NC) were transfected into A549/DPP cells. Then, qPCR was carried out to detect the changes in the expression of lncRNA-BLACAT1 before and after transfection. Thereafter, cell cycle and cell growth rate were detected by flow cytometry and the cell growth curve. Besides, the changes in cell migration, cell apoptosis, and Cyclin D1 were detected via wound healing assay, flow cytometry, and Western blotting (WB).

RESULTS

In GEO database, lncRNA-BLACAT1 was significantly overexpressed in NSCLC (p<0.05), and the prognosis of NSCLC in BLACAT1 low-expression group was better than that in the BLACAT1 high-expression group (p<0.0001). Compared with that in BEAS-2B cells, BLACAT messenger RNA (mRNA) was notably highly expressed in A549 cells (p<0.05), and compared with that in A549 cells, BLACAT1 mRNA in A549/DPP was significantly highly expressed in A549/DDP cells (p<0.05). Additionally, in comparison with that in the si-NC group, the content of lncRNA-BLACAT1 in si-BLACAT1 group was remarkably decreased (p<0.01). Moreover, flow cytometry detection of cell cycle revealed that compared with those in si-NC group, G0/G1 phase was markedly prolonged and S phase was shortened in si-BLACAT1 group. MTS assay manifested that the absorbance at 450 nm in si-BLACAT1 group was evidently decreased on the 3rd day compared with that in the si-NC group (p<0.05), and the difference between the two groups was the most significant on the 5th day (p<0.001). According to wound healing assay, compared with those in si-NC group, the distance between cells became larger, the cell migration ability was remarkably weakened (p<0.05), and cell apoptosis was prominently reduced in si-BLACAT1 group (p<0.05). WB results showed that compared with si-NC group, si-BLACAT1 group had significantly reduced Cyclin D1 (p<0.05) CONCLUSIONS: LncRNA-BLACAT1 regulates the expression of Cyclin D1, reduces the malignant phenotype of drug-resistant cells, and increases the sensitivity of lung cancer cells to DDP.

MiR-507 inhibits the growth and invasion of trophoblasts by targeting CAMK4

OBJECTIVE

To elucidate the potential influences of miR-507 and CAMK4 on the progression of preeclampsia (PE).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Placental tissues were collected from 24 PE pregnancies and 24 healthy pregnancies. The relative levels of miR-507 and CAMK4 in placental tissues were detected. In addition, expressions of apoptosis-associated genes in collected tissues were examined by both quantitative Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The influences of miR-507 and CAMK4 on proliferative and migratory abilities in HTR-8/SVneo cells were assessed by CCK-8 and transwell assay, respectively. The target relationship between miR-507 and CAMK4 was detected by Luciferase assay.

RESULTS

MiR-507 was upregulated in placental tissues collected from PE pregnancies. Overexpression of miR-507 suppressed proliferative and migratory abilities, and stimulated apoptosis in HTR-8/SVneo cells. CAMK4 was the target gene of miR-507, which was downregulated in placental tissues collected from PE pregnancies and negatively correlated to miR-507 level. The knockdown of CAMK4 suppressed proliferative and migratory abilities, and stimulated apoptosis in HTR-8/SVneo cells, and these trends were abolished by silence of miR-507.

CONCLUSIONS

Highly expressed miR-507 in PE pregnancies inhibits proliferative and migratory potentials, and induces apoptosis in trophoblasts by targeting CAMK4.

EphA3 promotes the proliferation of NPC cells through negatively regulating the ability of FOG2

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the expression level of EphA3 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and its effect on the proliferative capacity of NPC. Meanwhile, the underlying mechanism by which EphA3 prompts NPC malignant progression was further explored.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this study, the expression of EphA3 in 42 pairs of tumor tissue specimens and paracancerous ones collected from NPC patients was detected by quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR), and the interplay between EphA3 expression and clinical indicators, as well as prognosis of NPC patients was analyzed. Meanwhile, qRT-PCR was also applied to further verify EphA expression in NPC cell lines. In addition, EphA knockdown model was constructed in NPC cell lines, CNE2, and 6-10B, and the impacts of EphA on NPC cell functions was assessed through Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), cell colony formation, as well as 5-Ethynyl-2'- deoxyuridine (EdU) assays. Finally, a potential interplay between EphA3 and FOG2 was also investigated.

RESULTS

In this study, qRT-PCR results revealed that EphA3 expression levels in tumor tissues of patients with NPC were markedly higher than those in adjacent tissues. Compared with patients with low expression of EphA3, those with highly expressed EphA3 had a more advanced pathological stage. In addition, in vitro experiments showed that knocking down EphA3 notably attenuated the proliferation capacity of NPC cells. Subsequently, it was found that the expression of FOG2 in NPC cells was remarkably decreased both in NPC cell lines and tissues, which had a negative correlation with EphA3. Finally, cell recovery experiment revealed a mutual regulation between EphA3 and FOG2, which then together affected the malignant progression of NPC.

CONCLUSIONS

EphA3 is significantly relevant to pathological staging and poor prognosis of patients with NPC and may enhance the proliferation ability of NPC cells by modulating FOG2.

Effects of lncRNA MEG3 on proliferation and apoptosis of gallbladder cancer cells through regulating NF-κB signaling pathway

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effects of long non-coding ribonucleic acid (lncRNA) maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) on proliferation and apoptosis of gallbladder cancer (GBC) cells and its molecular mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The relative expression level of lncRNA MEG3 in GBC cell lines was detected via quantitative Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). The lncRNA MEG3 expression plasmids were constructed, the cell proliferation ability was detected via Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and colony formation assay, and the apoptosis was detected via flow cytometry. The effects of lncRNA MEG3 expression on endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)-related proteins were determined using Western blotting, and the changes in nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) protein in the nucleus were determined after overexpression of lncRNA MEG3.

RESULTS

The expression of lncRNA MEG3 in three kinds of GBC cell lines was lower than that in human immortalized normal biliary epithelial cells (p<0.05). The results of CCK-8 assay and colony formation assay showed that overexpression of lncRNA MEG3 significantly reduced the proliferation rate and colony formation ability of GBC-SD cells compared with negative control (NC) group (p<0.05, p<0.05). According to the results of flow cytometry, the apoptosis rate was higher in lncRNA MEG63 overexpression group compared with that in NC group (p<0.05). Moreover, the ERS-related proteins (MANF, GRP78, and caspase-3) were remarkably upregulated in lncRNA MEG63 overexpression group compared with those in NC group, indicating that ERS is activated by lncRNA MEG63 overexpression. The NF-κB signal in GBC cells was activated by lncRNA MEG3.

CONCLUSIONS

LncRNA MEG3 activates the NF-κB signal in GBC cells to affect the proliferation and apoptosis of GBC cells.

TGF-β1 promotes pulmonary arterial hypertension in rats via activating RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the influence of the Rho/Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) signaling pathway in rats with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) under the intervention with transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 30 rats were divided into three groups using a random number table, including control group (healthy rats, n=10), model group (PAH rats, n=10), and TGF group (PAH rats injected with 5 ng/mL TGF-β1 recombinant protein, n=10). The systolic blood pressure, ventricular hypertrophy index, pathological changes in lung tissues, TGF-β1 level, protein, and messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expressions of RhoA and ROCK, as well as concentrations of serum nitric oxide (NO) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) were detected via hemodynamics test, hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, immunohistochemical method, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

The results of hemodynamics test showed that the right ventricular systolic pressure was increased markedly in model group (46.53±8.81) and TGF group (56.79±9.12) compared with that in control group (26.03±4.21) (p<0.05). The mean pulmonary systolic pressure in model group (25.89±1.92) and TGF group (29.41±1.91) was evidently higher than that in control group (15.77±2.71) (p<0.05). According to the results of heart weight measurement, model group (0.5118±0.1635) exhibited a higher ventricular hypertrophy index than control group (0.2908±0.0313) (p<0.05) but a lower ventricular hypertrophy index than TGF group (0.7231±0.1004) (p<0.05). The medial thickness of the pulmonary artery of the rats was observed through the HE staining. It was found that compared with control group, the medial thickness of the pulmonary artery was increased significantly in model group (p<0.05), while it was raised more prominently in TGF group, higher than that in model group, suggesting that TGF-β1 expression can increase the medial thickness of the pulmonary artery. It was manifested in immunohistochemical results that the protein expression of RhoA in the left lung tissues rose notably in model group compared with that in control group (p<0.05), and it was also raised remarkably in TGF group in comparison with that in model group (p<0.05), illustrating that the protein expression of TGF can activate the activity of RhoA and ROCK. The results of RT-PCR indicated that the mRNA expressions of RhoA and ROCK in the left lung tissues were elevated distinctly in model group and TGF group compared with those in control group (p<0.05), and the increases were more apparent in TGF group than those in model group (p<0.05). It was revealed in ELISA results that in comparison with control group, model group, and TGF group had markedly increased concentrations of serum NO and ET-1 (p<0.05), while the rises of serum NO and ET-1 concentrations in TGF group were the most prominent compared with those in model group (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Overexpressed TGF-β1 can activate the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway, thus promoting the occurrence and development of PAH.

Linc00707 promotes cell proliferation, invasion, and migration via the miR-30c/CTHRC1 regulatory loop in breast cancer

OBJECTIVE

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignant tumor in women. We aimed at investigating the function of long non-coding RNA LINC00707 in BC and the potential mechanism.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The expression level of linc00707 was determined using the quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) in BC tissues and cell lines. The Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and colony formation assays were performed to detect the potential influence of LINC0070 on the proliferation ability of the BC cells. Also, the invasion and migration abilities were assessed by the transwell assay. Furthermore, with the bioinformatic analysis and the Dual-Luciferase Reporter Gene Assay, we analyzed the interaction in LINC00707/miR-30c/CTHRC1 regulatory loop. The regulatory effects of LINC00707/miR-30c/CTHRC1 on BC were finally determined.

RESULTS

LINC00707 was significantly upregulated in BC tissues and cell lines. The knockdown of LINC00707 inhibited proliferation, invasion, and migration in MDA-MB-231 cells, while the overexpression of LINC00707 achieved the opposite results in MDA-MB-468 cells. LINC00707, acting as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA), could sponge miR-30c to upregulate CTHRC1, thus promoting BC progression.

CONCLUSIONS

LINC00707 was highly expressed in BC tissues and cells. It promoted cell proliferation, invasion, and migration via miR-30c/CTHRC1 regulatory loop. This might provide a novel target for the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis for BC.

Correlation analysis between ADAMTS-13 gene polymorphism and hypertension-induced atrial fibrillation

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore the relationships between ADAMTS-13 gene polymorphisms and hypertension-induced atrial fibrillation (AF).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 200 hypertensive patients without AF (hypertension group) and 200 hypertensive patients with AF (AF group) treated in our hospital were enrolled. Then, peripheral blood was drawn from these subjects enrolled, and the genomic deoxyribonucleic acids (DNAs) were extracted for analysis of ADAMTS-13 gene polymorphism. Next, Reverse Transcription-quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR) was employed to determine the expression of ADAMTS-13 gene, and the correlations of ADAMTS-13 gene polymorphism with ADAMTS-13 gene expression and clinical indicators were analyzed.

RESULTS

Results revealed that there was a difference in the distribution of alleles of ADSMTS-13 rs3094374 (p=0.046) and rs34054981 (p=0.039) between AF group and hypertension group. The frequency of T allele of the locus rs3094374 and that of the locus rs34054981 in ADSMTS-13 gene was higher in AF group than that in hypertension group. The distribution of genotypes of ADSMTS-13 rs28503257 (p=0.047) and rs34054981 (p=0.013) in AF group were different from those in hypertension group, and AF group had lower frequency of GA genotype of ADAMTS-13 rs28503257 and higher frequency of CT genotype of ADAMTS-13 rs34054981 than hypertension group. Besides, a difference was found in the distribution of ADSMTS-13 rs3094374 between AF group and hypertension group in recessive model (p=0.043), and the frequency of TC + CC was higher in the recessive model. Moreover, the distribution of the haplotypes CAT (p=0.012) and CGT (p=0.031) in ADAMTS-13 gene showed a difference between AF group and hypertension group. The linkage disequilibrium of the loci rs3094374 and rs28503257 in ADAMTS-13 gene was relatively great (D'=0.293). In addition, the polymorphism of the locus rs34054981 in ADAMTS-13 gene had an association with ADAMTS-13 gene expression (p<0.05). The expression of ADAMTS-13 gene was lower in patients carrying genotype TT in AF group. Furthermore, the ADAMTS-13 rs3094374 polymorphism was related to international normalized ratio (INR) (p=0.034), and the ADAMTS-13 rs28503257 polymorphism was correlated with the levels of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) (p=0.047) and D-dimer (p=0.033).

CONCLUSIONS

ADAMTS-13 gene polymorphism is correlated with the susceptibility and procession of hypertension-induced AF.

Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography Angiography Assisted Resection of Ventral Foramen Magnum and Jugular Foramen Tumours via Modified Far Lateral Suboccipital Approach

Objective: The anatomical relationship of ventral foramen magnum and jugular foramen tumour is complex and the operation is very difficult. The aim of this study was to summarize the microsurgical experience of the removal of the ventral foramen magnum and jugular foramen tumours via the modified far lateral suboccipital approach assisted by three-dimensional computed tomography angiography (3D-CTA). Methods: The clinical data and follow-up results of 13 cases of 3D-CTA assisted suboccipital far lateral approach from July 2011 to September 2017 were analyzed retrospectively. There were 5 males and 8 females. Preoperative CT and MRI were used for routine imaging diagnosis, and the 3D-CTA simulated surgical approach was performed. The preoperative operation scheme was established, and the risk of operation was evaluated according simulated operation. After individualized exposure, the modified far lateral suboccipital approach was completed under the neuroelectrophysiological monitoring technique. Results: The preoperative images were completely consistent with the findings in the surgery. There were 9 cases of jugular foramen tumour and 4 cases of ventral foramen magnum tumour. Of the 13 cases, only 1 case of jugular glomus tumour had extra-cranial residual, while the whole intracranial tumour was removed. In other 12 cases, the tumours were completely removed under the microscope. After operation, the headache disappeared, and hearing loss was improved. There was no perioperative deaths, infection and cerebrospinal fluid leakage. The facial paralysis was occurred in 1 patient. After 3–39 months of follow-up, there was no recurrence of tumour, or new nerve function defect. Hoarseness, choking of drinking water and numbness of limbs were all improved at the end of the follow-up period. The symptoms of postoperative facial paralysis were also improved during the follow-up period. Conclusion: After the preoperative simulation and evaluation by 3D-CTA, the ventral foramen magnum and jugular foramen tumours can be rescted safely and effectively via far modified lateral suboccipital approach.

H9N2 influenza virus isolated from minks has enhanced virulence in mice

H9N2 is one of the major subtypes of influenza virus circulating in poultry in China, which has a wide host range from bird to mammals. Two H9N2 viruses were isolated from one mink farm in 2014. Phylogenetic analysis showed that internal genes of the H9N2 viruses have close relationship with those of H7N9 viruses. Interestingly, two H9N2 were separated in phylogenetic trees, indicating that they are introduced to this mink farm in two independent events. And further mice studies showed that one H9N2 caused obvious weight loss and 20% mortality in infected mice, while another virus did not cause any clinical sign in mice infected at the same dose. Genetic analysis indicated that the virulent H9N2 contain a natural mutation at 701N in PB2 protein, which was reported to contribute to mammalian adaptation. However, such substitution is absent in the H9N2 avirulent to mice. Circulation of H9N2 in mink may drive the virus to adapt mammals; continual surveillance of influenza virus in mink was warranted.

Regulation of p53wt glioma cell proliferation by androgen receptor-mediated inhibition of small VCP/p97-interacting protein expression

The incidence of glioma in men is higher than that in women; however, little is known about the expression and basic function of the androgen receptor (AR) in gliomas. AR inhibited the small VCP/p97-interacting protein (SVIP) on the transcriptional level was previously reported. The present study shows that the protein level of AR is highly expressed in cell lines of the nervous system. Moreover, the AR expression is increased while SVIP expression is decreased in tumor tissue of glioma patients, which is in agreement with the progressing WHO grades. A statistically significant increase in serum testosterone level of glioma patients compared with that of non-cancer patients was also detected. Furthermore, it has been proved that SVIP is down-regulated as well as AR is up-regulated in glioma cell lines with R1881 treatment. Interestingly, the depletion of SVIP using siRNA facilitated cell proliferation and decreased p53 expression. In addition, overexpression of SVIP increased cell death only in p53^wt cell lines. Moreover, U87MG cells, p53^wt cell line was susceptible to AR antagonists in vitro and in vivo. The current study provides insight into the biological role of AR in suppressing SVIP and p53 and promoting the progression of glioma as well as the clinical treatment of glioma patients.

MiR-200c Inhibits the Tumor Progression of Glioma via Targeting Moesin

We attempt to demonstrate the regulatory role of miR-200c in glioma progression and its mechanisms behind. Here, we show that miR-200c expression was significantly reduced in the glioma tissues compared to paratumor tissues, especially in malignant glioma. Exogenous overexpression of miR-200c inhibited the proliferation and invasion of glioma cells. In addition, the in vivo mouse xenograft model showed that miR-200c inhibited glioma growth and liver metastasis, which is mainly regulated by targeting moesin (MSN). We demonstrated that the expression of MSN in glioma specimens were negatively correlated with miR-200c expression, and MSN overexpression rescued the phenotype about cell proliferation and invasion induced by miR-200c. Moreover, knockdown of MSN was able to mimic the effects induced by miR-200c in glioma cells. These results indicate that miR-200c plays an important role in the regulation of glioma through targeting MSN.

Relationship between TFAM Gene Polymorphisms and Endurance Capacity in Response to Training

The aim of this study was to explore whether polymorphisms in mitochondrial transcription factor A ( TFAM) gene are associated with endurance capacity in a pretraining state (baseline) and/or in response to a supervised 18-wk endurance training (changes) in 102 young Chinese males (nonathletes). Phenotypes measured were running economy (RE) and V(.)O (2max). Genomic DNA was extracted from white blood cells and the genotypes were analyzed by PCR-RFLP in single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) rs1937, rs2306604 and rs1049432. Genotype distributions were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium at three loci (p > 0.05). When the three polymorphisms were considered together, three haplotypes were estimated, i.e., G (rs1937)-A (rs2306604)-G (rs1049432) (49 %), G (rs1937)-G (rs2306604)-G (rs1049432) (33 %) and C (rs1937)-G (rs2306604)-T (rs1049432) (18 %). SNPrs1937 and rs1049432 achieved near complete linkage disequilibrium (LD) (D' = 1 and r (2) = 0.903). We found no significant differences in baseline levels of V(.)O (2max) and RE between TFAM genotypes or haplotypes. Similarly, we found no differences for the training-induced changes of both variables. It was concluded that the three polymorphisms in TFAM gene rs1937, rs2306604 and rs1049432 do not predict endurance capacity/trainability, at least in Chinese males.

Is there an association between PPARGC1A genotypes and endurance capacity in Chinese men?

Our purpose was to determine the possible association between genotypes of three polymorphisms (Gly482Ser, Thr394Thr and A2962G) of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1 alpha (PPARGC1A) gene, on one hand, and both the pre- (baseline) and post-training levels of maximal (i.e., maximal oxygen uptake [VO2max]) and submaximal human endurance capacity (i.e., running economy [RE]). We studied 102 young males (physically active, non-athletes; age: 19+/-1 yrs) from Northern China (of Han origin) who underwent a 18-week endurance training (running) program and were tested on a treadmill (for VO2max and RE determination) before and after training. None of the VO2max and RE related traits were associated with the Gly482Ser and Thr394Thr polymorphisms at baseline or after training. The A2962G polymorphism was however associated with VO2max at baseline, as carriers of the G allele (AG+GG genotypes; n=49) had higher levels of VO2max than the AA group (n=53) (58.2+/-4.3 vs 56.3+/-3.9 mL/kg/min; P=0.017). Our results do not support previous data on Caucasians showing an association between the Gly482Ser variant and VO2max but suggest the potential role of another polymorphism (A2962G) to explain individual VO2max differences in Chinese men.

Early changes of arginine vasopressin and angiotensin II in patients with acute cerebral injury

OBJECTIVE

To study the changes and clinical significance of arginine vasopressin (AVP) and angiotensin II (AT-II) in patients with acute moderate and severe cerebral injury.

METHODS

The early plasma concentration was checked by radioimmunoassay in 47 cases of acute moderate and severe cerebral injury, 30 cases of non-cerebral injury and 30 healthy volunteers.

RESULTS

The early plasma concentrations of AVP (50.23 ng/L +/- 15.31 ng/L) and AT-II (248.18 ng/L +/- 82.47 ng/L) in cerebral injury group were higher than those in non-cerebral injury group (AVP for 30.91 ng/L +/- 11.48 ng/L and AT-II for 120.67 ng/L +/- 42.49 ng/L, P<0.01). The early plasma concentrations of AVP and AT-II in cerebral injury group were also obviously higher than those of the volunteers (AVP for 5.16 ng/L +/- 4.23 ng/L and AT-II for 43.11 ng/L +/- 16.39 ng /L, P<0.001). At the same time, the early plasma level of AVP (58.90 ng/L +/- 18.12 ng/L) and AT-II (292.13 ng/L +/- 101.17 ng/ L) was higher in severe cerebral injured patients than moderate cerebral injured ones (AVP for 36.68 ng/L +/- 12.16 ng/L and AT-II for 201.42 ng/L +/- 66.10 ng/L, P<0.01). The early level of AVP and AT-II was negatively related to the GCS scales in acute cerebral injury. The early plasma concentrations of AVP (45.98 ng/L +/- 13.48 ng/L) and AT-II (263. 28 ng/L +/- 80.23 ng/L) were lower in epidural hematoma group than those of subdural hematoma and cerebral injury group (AVP for 64.12 ng/L +/- 15.56 ng /L and AT-II for 319.82 ng/L +/- 108.11 ng/L, P<0. 01).

CONCLUSIONS

AVP and AT-II may play an important role in pathophysiologic process in the secondary cerebral injury. The more severe the cerebral injury is, the higher the early level of AVP and AT-II will be. The early plasma level of AVP and AT-II may be one of the severity indexes of cerebral injury.

Ornithine decarboxylase, kidney size, and the tubular hypothesis of glomerular hyperfiltration in experimental diabetes

In early diabetes, the kidney grows and the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) increases. This growth is linked to ornithine decarboxylase (ODC). The study of hyperfiltration has focused on microvascular abnormalities, but hyperfiltration may actually result from a prior increase in capacity for proximal reabsorption which reduces the signal for tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF). Experiments were performed in Wistar rats after 1 week of streptozotocin diabetes. Kidney weight, ODC activity, and GFR were correlated in diabetic and control rats given difluoromethylornithine (DFMO; Marion Merrell Dow, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA) to inhibit ODC. We assessed proximal reabsorption by micropuncture, using TGF as a tool for manipulating single-nephron GFR (SNGFR), then plotting proximal reabsorption versus SNGFR. ODC activity was elevated 15-fold in diabetic kidneys and normalized by DFMO, which also attenuated hyperfiltration and hypertrophy. Micropuncture data revealed an overall increase in proximal reabsorption in diabetic rats too great to be accounted for by glomerulotubular balance. DFMO prevented the overall increase in proximal reabsorption. These data confirm that ODC is required for the full effect of diabetes on kidney size and proximal reabsorption in early streptozotocin diabetes and are consistent with the hypothesis that diabetic hyperfiltration results from normal physiologic actions of TGF operating in a larger kidney, independent of any primary malfunction of the glomerular microvasculature.

Adenosine formed by 5'-nucleotidase mediates tubuloglomerular feedback

Nephron function is stabilized by tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF). TGF operates within the juxtaglomerular apparatus, sensing changes in tubular flow and eliciting compensatory changes in single nephron GFR (SNGFR). The mediator(s) of TGF remains unconfirmed. One theory is that ATP consumed in active transport by the macula densa leads to formation of adenosine, which causes glomerular vasoconstriction. We performed micropuncture in rats to test this hypothesis. Adenosine activity was manipulated by microperfusing nephrons with adenosine A1 receptor blocker, A1-agonist, or 5'-nucleotidase inhibitor. Effects on TGF were characterized by changes in TGF efficiency (the compensation for small perturbations in tubular flow) and by changes in the maximum range over which TGF can cause SNGFR to change. These data were further applied to generate TGF profiles [SNGFR versus late proximal flow (V(LP))]. TGF efficiency was significantly reduced by blocking A1-receptors. TGF efficiency, TGF range, and the slope of the TGF profile (DeltaSNGFR/DeltaV(LP)) were all significantly reduced by blocking 5'-nucleotidase. When adenosine activity was clamped by combining 5'-nucleotidase inhibitor with A1-agonist to determine whether TGF requires adenosine to be present or to fluctuate, the TGF slope was reduced by 83%, indicating that adenosine activity must fluctuate for normal TGF to occur and that adenosine is a mediator of TGF.

Temporal adjustment of the juxtaglomerular apparatus during sustained inhibition of proximal reabsorption

Tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF) stabilizes nephron function by causing changes in single-nephron GFR (SNGFR) to compensate for changes in late proximal flow (VLP). TGF responds within seconds and reacts over a narrow range of VLP that surrounds normal VLP. To accommodate sustained increases in VLP, TGF must reset around the new flow. We studied TGF resetting by inhibiting proximal reabsorption with benzolamide (BNZ; administered repeatedly over a 24-hour period) in Wistar-Froemter rats. BNZ acutely activates TGF, thereby reducing SNGFR. Micropuncture was performed 6-10 hours after the fourth BNZ dose, when diuresis had subsided. BNZ caused glomerular hyperfiltration, which was prevented with inhibitors of macula densa nitric oxide synthase (NOS). Because of hyperfiltration, BNZ increased VLP and distal flow, but did not affect the basal TGF stimulus (early distal salt concentration). BNZ slightly blunted normalized maximum TGF response and the basal state of TGF activation. BNZ sensitized SNGFR to reduction by S-methyl-thiocitrulline (SMTC) and caused the maximum TGF response to be strengthened by SMTC. Sensitization to type I NOS (NOS-I) blockers correlated with increased macula densa NOS-I immunoreactivity. Tubular transport measurements confirmed that BNZ affected TGF within the juxtaglomerular apparatus. During reduced proximal reabsorption, TGF resets to accommodate increased flow and SNGFR through a mechanism involving macula densa NOS.

[Effect of enoxacin on pharmacokinetics of theophylline in rats]

In order to obtain an experimental evidence for Enoxacin(ENX) to be correctly used in clinical treatment, we studied the effect of ENX on the pharmacokinetic parameters of theophylline(TP). A single oral dose of TP 20 mg/kg was given to rats and ENX(300 mg/kg, 450 mg/kg) was co-administered orally three times to those rats. The plasma concentrations of TP were determined by HPLC after TP was administered 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 12 and 24 hrs. The results showed that TP was eliminated by one compartment model. TP plasma concentrations and AUC were significantly increased. T1/2 beta of TP was prolonged. The total clearance of TP was decreased when compared with the control. This interaction was dose-dependent. It was concluded that the interaction between ENX and TP existed. Concomitant use of ENX with TP should be avoided.

[Effect of po li gan capsule on immunofunction in mice]

This study aimed at the immune response of mice to Po Li Gan Capsule (PLGC). The effects of PLGC on phagocytosis of phagocyte, on serum hemolysin, and on IL-1, IL-2 in mice were investigated. The results showed that the coefficient and index of phagocytosis obviously increased in the experiment group, compared with that in the control group (P < 0.01); the serum hemolysin in the experiment group increased too (P < 0.01). The results also showed that PLGC could restore the capacity of macrophage for secreting IL-1 that had been inhibited by cyclophosphamide and PLGC could enhance the release of IL-2 from spleen cell in the experiment group (P < 0.05-0.01). These suggest that PLGC enhances both cellular and humoral immunity function in mice.

[Study on the beta-lactamases of the Escherichia coli HX88108 resistant to ceforperazon]

E. coli HX88108 was isolated from a patient and found to produce plasmid-encode beta-lactamases with conferring highly resistance to ceforperazone(CPZ). The beta-lactamases of the E. coli HX88108 and transformants pFC, pFT1, pFT2 and pFT3 were studied. The beta-lactamases stability test among 11 beta-lactam antibiotics showed that beta-lactamases from E. coli HX88108. pFC, pFT1, readily hydrolyzed penicillins, the first, second-generation cephalosporins and CPZ. beta-lactamases of pFT2 and pFT3 hydrolyzed penicillins more strongly than cephalosporins. On the other hand, experiments of inhibiting enzyme were carried out. The results indicated that beta-lactamases of HX88108, pTF1, pFT2 and pFT3 were inhibited by clavulanic acid(CA) and sulbactam (SBT). Enzyme of pFC was inhibited poorly by CA and SBT. Through isoelectric focusing technique, the PIs were as follows: HX88108 contained three beta-lactamases, of which the PIs were 5.25, 5.3 and 5.6 respectively; the PIs of beta-lactamases from pFT2, pFT3, were 5.3 and 5.6. pFC and pFT1 were different plasmids encoded beta-lactamases with the same PI 5.25. The results indicate that the beta-lactamases of E. coli HX88108 may be a new member in TEM farmily.

[The mechanism of a new anthracycline antitumor agent: 1,4-bis [2-(2,2-dimethyl-oxazolidin-3-yl)ethylamino]-1,4-didehydroxy-eta pyrromycinone(AD-89)]

Agarose gel electrophoresis and spectroscopy were used to investigate the interaction of AD-89 with DNA. The effect of drug on intact cell DNA was evaluated by using alkaline elution technique. The results showed that AD-89 decreased the mobility of supercoiled PUC9 DNA significantly. The interaction of calf thymus DNA with AD-89 led to the red shift of the peaks of absorption, and the greater the ratio of DNA/AD-89 was the greater the red shift would be. These results are similar to those of mitoxantrone (DHAQ) and thus suggest that AD-89 is an intercalator. The results of alkaline elution showed that AD-89 produced single-strand breaks at high dose. In contrast to DHAQ, AD-89 did not produce protein-associated breaks. AD-89 produced significantly DNA interstrand cross-linking at 5 and 10 mumol/ L. It also produced DNA protein crosslinks. These results demonstrate that AD-89 is an intercalator and can produce DNA interstrand cross-linking.

Percutaneous transluminal balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty using domestic balloon catheter for congenital pulmonary valve stenosis in children

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the effect of percutaneous balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty (PBPV) using domestic balloon catheter for congenital pulmonary valve stenosis (PVS) in infants and children.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The data of 70 patients aged from 1.5 to 12 years (mean 5.5 +/- 3.4 years) who underwent PBPV using domestic balloon catheter for PVS in our institution were reviewed. Sixty-six patients had dome-shaped valve stenosis, and 4 had displastic valve stenosis. SaO2 reduced in 5 patients and associated open foramen ovale was noted in 23. Predilatation, right ventricular systolic pressure ranged from 60 to 234 mmHg (mean 115.75 +/- 36.15 mmHg). The systolic gradient (delta P) from right ventricle to pulmonary artery was 89.92 +/- 38.25 mmHg. Balloon diameter was selected 120%-142% of pulmonary valve annulus diameter (mean 132%). All patients were followed up for 3 months-4 years by means of clinical examination. ECG, 2D-UCG, and Doppler-UCG.

RESULTS

After dilatation, delta P reduced from 89.92 +/- 38.25 to 14.65 +/- 11.40 mmHg (P < 0.001). The rate of decrease in transvalve gradient (delta P) was 83.7%. No patients experienced procedure-related events. Mid-term follow-up showed that no patients had clinical and instrumental complications. Doppler and ECG analyses showed that delta P did not change significantly similar to immediate gradient after PBPV and right ventricular hypertrophy disappeared progressively 6 months after PBPV.

CONCLUSIONS

PBPV is a useful, safe and definitive procedure in the treatment of isolated PVS in infants and children. The properties and features of the balloon catheter produced by Shanghai Med-Tech Factory are similar to those of Med-Tech balloon catheter of U.S.A.

[Preliminary mechanism studies of siwenmycin on the inhibition of nucleic acid syntheses]

Siwenmycin, isolated from a streptomyces culture, is a new member of aclacinomycin analogues. It exhibited a remarkable inhibitory effect on the biosynthesis of DNA and RNA in vivo. In order to recognize the mechanism of the inhibitions, the reactions of siwenmycin to DNA template, DNA polymerase I and RNA polymerase were studied. Experimental results showed that siwenmycin could intercalate DNA, but it did not inhibit DNA polymerase I-mediated DNA repair replication and T7RNA polymerase-mediated DNA transcription. This indicates that siwenmycin is not a damage to the DNA template function, nor will it inhibit DNA polymerase I and T7RNA polymerase, though it can intercalate DNA.

Invertidos sexuales, tortilleras, and maricas machos: the construction of homosexuality in Buenos Aires, Argentina, 1900-1950

The author discusses Argentinean construction of homosexuality from 1900 to 1950 in the context of the raging debate of the essentialists versus social constructionists. The history of sexual inverts is discussed with reference to early sexologists. After a broad exploration of sexual inversion, the author turns to the Argentinean doctors who distinguish between acquired and congenital inverts. There was much resistance to the medical and legal establishments as there were autobiographies written by inverts, who subverted the medical views of the day. Finally, Bao concludes that there was, indeed, an Argentine construction of homosexuality, and that there were similarities between Buenos Aires and other large European cities. It is also noted that at the beginning of the twentieth century, there was a developed Argentine subculture of inverts who had meeting places, fashion, sexual tastes, and customs.

[A study on pharmacokinetics of 3H-mitoxantrone in experimental animals]

Mitoxantrone (DHAQ) we studied is a new semisynthetic antitumor drug prepared in China. This paper reports the pharmacokinetic studies of 3H-mitoxantrone in mice by liquid scintillation. The results showed that the decline of radioactivity in the plasma was a biphasic curve after intramuscular and intravenous injection in rats. The adsorption of 3H-DHAQ was ready and complete after intramuscular injection, it was widely distributed in body tissues. The concentration order of various organs was liver greater than intestine greater than kidney greater than lung greater than heart greater than muscles greater than brain. The elimination of the drug was slow, T1/2 was 42.56 h. In 72 h after administration the cumulative excretion of radioactivity in urine was 7% of the total dose, while that in feces was 43%. The main forms of the drug in urine were its metabolites.