[Clinicopathological features of Helicobacter pylori-negative early gastric cancer]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinicopathological features of Helicobacter pylori (Hp)-negative early gastric cancer.

METHODS

The clinicopathological data of 30 cases of Hp-negative early gastric cancer were collected retrospectively at Pingdingshan Medical District, 989 Hospital of PLA Joint Logistics Support Force, and Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, from 2009 to 2021, and the histomorphological characteristics and immunophenotype were observed, and combined with the literature to explore.

RESULTS

The median age of 30 patients was 58.5 years (range: 21-80 years), including 13 males and 17 females. The upper part of the stomach was 13 cases, the middle part of the sto-mach was 9 cases, and the lower part of the stomach was 8 cases. The median diameter of the tumor was 11 mm (range: 1-30 mm). According to the Paris classification, 9 cases were 0-Ⅱa, 7 cases were 0-Ⅱb, and 14 cases were 0-Ⅱc. Endoscopic examination showed that 18 cases of lesions were red, 12 cases of lesions were faded or white, and microvascular structures and microsurface structures were abnormal. In all the cases, collecting venules were regularly arranged in the gastric body and corner mucosa. There were 18 cases of well differentiated adenocarcinoma in the mucosa. The tumor presented glandular tubular-like and papillary structure, with dense glands and disordered arrangement; the cells were cuboidal or columnar, with increased nuclear chromatin and loss of nuclear polarity, and most of them expressed gastric mucin. Signet-ring cell carcinoma was found in 7 cases, all the cancer tissues were composed of signet-ring cells, and the cancer cells were mainly distributed in the middle layer to the surface layer of mucosa. Gastric oxyntic gland adenoma (gastric adenocarcinoma of the fundic gland type confined to mucosa) in 2 cases, gastric adenocarcinoma of the fundic gland type in 2 cases, and gastric adenocarcinoma of fundic gland mucosa type in 1 case. The tumor tissue was composed of branching tubular glands, except 1 case of mucosal surface epithelium was partially neoplastic, the other 4 cases of mucosal surface epi-thelium were all non-neoplastic; the cells were arranged in a single layer, and the nucleus was close to the basal side, and the nucleus was only slightly atypical. Pepsinogen I and H⁺/K⁺ ATPase were positive in 5 cases of gastric fundus gland type tumors, and 1 case of foveolar-type tumor cells at the surface and depth of mucosa showed MUC5AC positive. The gastric mucosa adjacent to cancer was generally normal in all cases, without atrophy, intestinal metaplasia and Hp.

CONCLUSION

Hp-negative early gastric cancer is a heterogeneous disease group with various histological types, and tubular adenocarcinoma and signet-ring cell carcinoma are common. Tubular adenocarcinoma mostly occurs in the elderly and the upper to middle part of the stomach, while signet-ring cell carcinoma mostly occurs in young and middle-aged people and the lower part of the stomach. Gastric neoplasm of the fundic gland type is relatively rare.

[Changes of cytokines in the aqueous humor of neovascular glaucoma at the angle-closure stage]

Objective: To evaluate the concentration of cytokines in the aqueous humor of neovascular glaucoma (NVG) patients at the angle-closure stage in different treatment periods and its relationship with recurrence. Methods: A prospective case-control study. Angle-closure stage NVG patients who came to Peking University Third Hospital from September 2018 to September 2019 were enrolled and followed-up for at least 12 months. Patients received triple sequential therapy, including anti-vascular endothelium growth factor (VEGF) injection, trabeculectomy, and panretinal photocoagulation. The aqueous humor before anti-VEGF treatment, before trabeculectomy, and during recurrence was collected. Multiplex bead immunoassay was applied to measure the concentration of 45 cytokines including VEGF, interleukin (IL), and chemokine. The relevant data were compared with the values of 25 proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) patients and 24 age-related cataract patients undergoing phacoemulsification as controls. The concentration of cytokines was presented as M (Q₁, Q₃). The nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis H test was applied to compare the cytokine concentration between the NVG group and controls. The difference between the recurrence and non-recurrence groups was compared with the Mann-Whitney U test. Results: The average age of NVG patients was (60±11) years, and there were 22 males and 10 females. No significant differences were found in age and gender between the NVG group and the two control groups (both P>0.05). The median concentrations of VEGF in the NVG group before anti-VEGF treatment, before trabeculectomy, and after recurrence were 2 151.3 (1 433.1, 4 280.0) ng/L, 655.4 (287.3, 836.3) ng/L and 2 003.4 (1 603.1, 2 468.9) ng/L respectively. The concentrations of VEGF before anti-VEGF treatment and after recurrence in the NVG group were significantly higher than the PDR group [453.8 (189.9, 595.8) ng/L] and the cataract group [143.5 (112.7, 269.8) ng/L] (all P<0.05). The median concentration of programmed cell death protein ligand 1 (PD-L1) was 38.9 (22.4, 50.6) ng/L before anti-VEGF treatment, higher than that in the PDR group [12.0 (6.3, 20.1) ng/L] and the cataract group [14.6 (11.4, 19.3) ng/L]. The median concentration of fractalkine was 242.7 (189.0, 306.7) ng/L, higher than that in the PDR group [131.1 (119.1, 157.6) ng/L] and the cataract group [116.7 (10.2, 135.9) ng/L]. The median concentration of IL-7 was 18.0 (12.0, 32.7) ng/L, higher than that in the PDR group [7.7 (2.0, 10.8) ng/L] and the cataract group [3.3 (1.9, 6.8) ng/L]. The median concentration of eotaxin was 84.0 (52.4, 122.7) ng/L, higher than that in the PDR group [26.6 (17.1, 72.3) ng/L] and the cataract group [7.1 (5.6, 14.8) ng/L]. The median concentration of tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) was 3.6 (2.8, 6.4) ng/L, higher than that in the cataract group [1.1 (0.3, 2.3) ng/L]. All the differences were statistically significant (all P<0.05). There were no significant differences between the NVG and control groups in other cytokines or other treatment periods (all P>0.05). Six NVG patients suffered recurrence during the follow-up. The baseline concentration of IL-7 of these patients [10.5 (8.4, 16.0) ng/L] was significantly lower than that in patients who did not have recurred disease [22.7 (15.7, 34.1) ng/L] (Z=-2.74, P<0.01). Conclusions: In the angle-closure stage of NVG patients, the concentrations of VEGF, PD-L1, fractalkine, IL-7, eotaxin, and TRAIL in the aqueous humor significantly increase during the onset of disease. Lower IL-7 may indicate a recurring tendency.

[Pathological characteristics of colorectal adenoma with submucosal pseudoinvasion]

Objective: To investigate the pathomorphological characteristics of colorectal adenoma with submucosal pseudoinvasion and to summarize the corresponding pseudoinvasion patterns. Methods: The clinicopathological data of 9 cases of colorectal adenoma were collected at 989 Hospital of PLA Joint Logistics Support Force (4 cases) and Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University (5 cases), from 2016 to 2019. retrospectively, and the histomorphological characteristics and immunophenotypes were analyzed, and discussed in light of the relevant literature. Results: There were 8 cases of adenoma with stalk. Tumor glands were found in the submucosa at the head end of adenoma, similar to infiltrating adenocarcinoma. The structure and cellular morphology of submucosal glands were very similar to the intramucosal tumor while the local submucosal tumor showed continuity with the intramucosal tumor. The submucosal tumors were lobule-like or nest-like with clear boundary. The outline of the gland was smooth and blunt-round, and there was loose fibromyxoid stroma around the gland, similar to the mucosa propria stroma. Some cases of the submucosal glands were cystic dilated with mucocele formation and hemosiderin deposition. One case with broad stalk-base showed an elevated adenoma with local high grade dysplasia involved in the aggregated lymphoid nodule, forming the lymphoglandular complexes, simulating invasive adenocarcinoma with associated submucosal lymphoid aggregates. Submucosal cancer tissue and intramucosal cancer tissue had continuity, and their morphology was the same. The submucosal tumor was round in the outline, smooth and blunt in the edge, and surrounded by lymphoid tissue. There was no stromal response around the gland to promote the proliferation of connective tissue, neither was there single-cell or small-cell cluster, sharp angle branch of gland, or vascular infiltration. Conclusions: There are two unique morphological patterns in colorectal adenoma with submucosal pseudoinvasion. Morphologically, the data show that one is lobular-like pattern, and the other is lymphoglandular complexes-like pattern. The main features of the two patterns are the same-morphology and continuity of submucosal tumor and intramucosal tumor. The pushed glands were surrounded by the intrinsic membrane stroma and muscularis mucosae in proper order, lacking the typical morphological characteristics of invasive adenocarcinoma.

[The value of (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography ((18)F-FDG PET-CT) in evaluating the stability of atherosclerotic plaques]

Objective: Positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) has been used to quantify inflammatory response in the body. The aim of the present study was to explore the possibility of using this method to evaluate the stability of atherosclerotic plaques and the efficacy of atorvastatin in stabilizing atherosclerotic plaques. Methods: Twenty New Zealand male white rabbits were included and divided into the atorvastatin intervention group and the control group, with 10 rabbits in each group. Rabbits in both groups were fed with a high fat diet for 20 weeks, and treated with thoracoabdominal aortic balloon-pulling to establish atherosclerosis model at the end of the 2nd week. Rabbits in atorvastatin intervention group was given atorvastatin intragastrically once a day. At the 8th week, thoracoabdominal aortic ultrasound was used to detect plaques in all rabbits. Blood was drawn at the 3rd and the 20th week, respectively, to measure blood lipids, high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). At the end of experiment, survival animals were scanned by (18)F-FDG PET-CT, and the average and maximum standard uptake values (SUVmean, SUVmax) of aortic segments were measured. Thereafter, the animals were sacrificed and aortic specimens of rabbits were taken and examined by immunohistochemistry. The pathological indexes were measured and compared. Results: At the end of experiment, the total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), hs-CRP [ (4.58±0.51) ng/ml vs.(5.87±0.66) ng/ml, P<0.01], MMP-9[ (43.93±2.16) ng/ml vs. (50.77±2.32) ng/ml, P<0.01], SUVmean (0.59±0.15 vs. 0.68±0.20, P<0.05) , SUVmax (0.68±0.20 vs. 0.81±0.27, P<0.05) , plaque area [ (0.36±0.24) mm(2) vs. (0.50±0.34) mm(2), P<0.05) ] and density of macrophage[ (4.34±1.54) % vs. (5.65±1.89) %, P<0.01] in the atorvastatin intervention group were significantly lower than those in the control group. In contrast, fiber cap thickness of the plaque[ (4.12±0.66) μm vs. (2.96±0.37) μm, P<0.01] in the atorvastatin intervention group was higher than that of the control group, and the difference was statistically significant. The arterial plaque areas were positively correlated with SUVmean (r=0.27, P<0.05) and SUVmax (r=0.43, P<0.01) . Fiber cap thickness was negatively correlated with SUVmean (r=-0.38, P<0.05) and SUVmax (r=-0.47, P<0.01) . The density of macrophage were positively correlated with SUVmean (r=0.52, P<0.01) and SUVmax (r=0.51, P<0.01) . Conclusion: (18)F-FDG PET/CT can be used to evaluate the efficacy of atorvastatin by the stability of atherosclerotic plaques.

[Relationship between vertebral CT values and bone mineral density in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease]

Objective: To explore a simple method for early detection of osteoporosis in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), by analyzing the correlation between computed tomography (CT) values of the thoracolumbar vertebrae and dual energy X ray absorptiometry (DXA). Methods: 86 patients with acute exacerbation of COPD were included in this study. The average age of the patients, including 57 males and 29 females, was 74±10 years. They all received chest CT and DXA examination within 1 month after admission. The relation between each CT value from 6(th) thoracic vertebrae (T6) to 1(st) lumbar (L1) and T-score measured by DXA was analyzed by linear correlation analysis with SPSS 17.0 software. Results: The mean CT value of T6-L1 was significantly lower in patients with osteoporosis than that in patients with normal bone mineral density (P<0.05). The CT values of T6-L1 were positively correlated with T-score (P<0.001). The ROC curve analysis of T6-L1 CT value showed that the area under ROC curve of L1 CT value was the largest, and therefore the accuracy of diagnosis of osteoporosis by L1 CT value was better.A L1 CT value lower than 100 HU was proposed as the threshold for lower bone mass or osteoporosis in the patients. Conclusion: It is possible to detect osteoporosis in patients with COPD through evaluating the CT values of T6-L1. This method could potentially reduce X-ray irradiation and expense. Early detection and intervention in patients with COPD and osteoporosis could improve the prognosis of patients.

Comparison of mode of failure between primary and revision total knee arthroplasties

INTRODUCTION

Cognizance of common reasons for failure in primary and revision TKA, together with their time course, facilitates prevention. However, there have been few reports specifically comparing modes of failure for primary vs. revision TKA using a single prosthesis. The goal of the study was to compare the survival rates, modes of failure, and time periods associated with each mode of failure, of primary vs. revision TKA.

HYPOTHESIS

The survival rates, modes of failure, time period for each mode of failure, and risk factors would differ between primary and revision TKA.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Data from a consecutive cohort comprising 1606 knees (1174 patients) of primary TKA patients, and 258 knees (224 patients) of revision TKA patients, in all of whom surgery involved a P.F.C^® prosthesis (Depuy, Johnson & Johnson, Warsaw, IN), was retrospectively reviewed. The mean follow-up periods of primary and revision TKAs were 9.2 and 9.8 years, respectively.

RESULTS

The average 10- and 15-year survival rates for primary TKA were 96.7% (CI 95%,±0.7%) and 85.4% (CI 95%,±2.0%), and for revision TKA 91.4% (CI 95%,±2.5%) and 80.5% (CI 95%,±4.5%). Common modes of failure included polyethylene wear, loosening, and infection. The most common mode of failure was polyethylene wear in primary TKA, and infection in revision TKA. The mean periods (i.e., latencies) of polyethylene wear and loosening did not differ between primary and revision TKAs, but the mean period of infection was significantly longer for revision TKA (1.2 vs. 4.8 years, P=0.003).

DISCUSSION

Survival rates decreased with time, particularly more than 10 years post-surgery, for both primary and revision TKAs. Continuous efforts are required to prevent and detect the various modes of failure during long-term follow-up. Greater attention is necessary to detect late infection-induced failure following revision TKA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Case-control study, Level III.

Mid-term outcomes and complications of total knee arthroplasty in haemophilic arthropathy: A review of consecutive 131 knees between 2006 and 2015 in a single institute

INTRODUCTION

Although total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in haemophilic arthropathy can reduce severe joint pain and improve functional disability, it is technically demanding.

AIM

To evaluate mid-term outcomes and complications of TKA in haemophilic arthropathy.

METHODS

This study retrospectively reviewed 131 consecutive primary TKAs in a single institute. The mean age was 41.0 years old, and the mean follow-up period was 6.8 years. Clinical and radiographic results were evaluated. Complications were categorized according to the classification system of the Knee Society for TKA complications.

RESULTS

The average Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) score improved from 66.0 to 24.2. The average flexion contracture significantly decreased from 17.3° to 4.7°, but the average pre- and postoperative maximum flexion did not differ (80.9° vs 85.6°, respectively). The average mechanical axis was varus 5.2° preoperatively and valgus 0.3° postoperatively. The coronal positions of the femoral and tibial components and the sagittal positions of these components were within ±3° in 83.2%, 89.3%, 63.4% and 73.3% of cases, respectively. Complications occurred in 17 knees (13.0%): hemarthrosis (n = 7), medial collateral ligament injury (n = 1), stiffness (n = 2), deep periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) (n = 3) and periprosthetic fracture (n = 4).

CONCLUSIONS

The mid-term results of TKA in haemophilic arthropathy were satisfactory in pain relief, improved function and decreased flexion contracture. Bleeding and PJI continue to be major concerns for TKA in haemophilic arthropathy, and risk of periprosthetic fracture must be taken into account for patient education and appropriate prevention.

Projecting boreal bird responses to climate change: the signal exceeds the noise

For climate change projections to be useful, the magnitude of change must be understood relative to the magnitude of uncertainty in model predictions. We quantified the signal-to-noise ratio in projected distributional responses of boreal birds to climate change, and compared sources of uncertainty. Boosted regression tree models of abundance were generated for 80 boreal-breeding bird species using a comprehensive data set of standardized avian point counts (349,629 surveys at 122,202 unique locations) and 4-km climate, land use, and topographic data. For projected changes in abundance, we calculated signal-to-noise ratios and examined variance components related to choice of global climate model (GCM) and two sources of species distribution model (SDM) uncertainty: sampling error and variable selection. We also evaluated spatial, temporal, and interspecific variation in these sources of uncertainty. The mean signal-to-noise ratio across species increased over time to 2.87 by the end of the 21st century, with the signal greater than the noise for 88% of species. Across species, climate change represented the largest component (0.44) of variance in projected abundance change. Among sources of uncertainty evaluated, choice of GCM (mean variance component = 0.17) was most important for 66% of species, sampling error (mean= 0.12) for 29% of species, and variable selection (mean =0.05) for 5% of species. Increasing the number of GCMs from four to 19 had minor effects on these results. The range of projected changes and uncertainty characteristics across species differed markedly, reinforcing the individuality of species' responses to climate change and the challenges of one-size-fits-all approaches to climate change adaptation. We discuss the usefulness of different conservation approaches depending on the strength of the climate change signal relative to the noise, as well as the dominant source of prediction uncertainty.

Treatment of distal femur fractures with locking plates: Comparison of periprosthetic fractures above total knee arthroplasty and non-periprosthetic fractures

The purpose of the present study was to compare the results and plate fit of periprosthetic and non-periprosthetic distal femur fractures fixed with locking plates. Twenty-one periprosthetic fractures above a TKA and 27 non-periprosthetic fractures were retrospectively reviewed. The primary healing rate, bone union time, clinical and radiographic results, complications, and additional surgeries were compared between the two groups. The quality of the plate fit on the bone was also compared. There were no differences in the primary healing rate, bone union time, clinical and radiographic results between the two groups. The incidence of overall complication and additional surgeries did not differ (3/21 vs. 5/27, 1/21 vs. 4/27). Plate fit trouble was observed more frequently in periprosthetic fractures (10/21 vs. 1/27, p = 0.004). Fixation of distal femur fractures with locking plates provided satisfactory results with a low risk of complications and additional surgeries in both periprosthetic and non-periprosthetic fractures.

A novel synthetic compound, 3-amino-3-(4-fluoro-phenyl)-1H-quinoline-2,4-dione, inhibits cisplatin-induced hearing loss by the suppression of reactive oxygen species: in vitro and in vivo study

Cisplatin, a chemotherapeutic agent for treating various solid tumors, produces hearing loss in approximately half a million cancer patients annually in the United States. In the course of developing a new protective agent against cisplatin-induced ototoxicity, we have been interested in a novel synthetic compound, 3-amino-3-(4-fluoro-phenyl)-1H-quinoline-2,4-dione (KR-22332). The effect of KR-22332 on cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity was analyzed in vitro in an organ of Corti-derived cell line (HEI-OC1), and in vivo in a zebrafish and rat model. Cisplatin-induced apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and altered mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) in HEI-OC1 cells were observed. KR-22332 significantly inhibited cisplatin-induced apoptosis, change of MMP, and intracellular ROS generation. KR-22332 markedly attenuated the cisplatin-induced loss and changes of auditory neuromasts in the zebrafish. Transtympanic administration of KR-22332 in a rat model was protective against cisplatin-induced hearing loss, as determined by click-evoked auditory brainstem response (p<0.01). Tissue terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling of rat cochlea demonstrated that KR-22332 blocked cisplatin-induced apoptosis. In addition, transtympanic administration of KR-22332 inhibited cisplatin-induced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-oxidase 3 (NOX3) overexpression in the rat cochlea. KR-22332 significantly reduced the expression of p-53, mitogen-activated protein kinases, caspase 3, and tumor necrosis factor-α compared to their significant increase after cisplatin treatment. The results of this study suggest that KR-22332 may prevent ototoxicity caused by the administration of cisplatin through the inhibition of mitochondrial dysfunction and the suppression of ROS generation. These novel findings implicate KR-22332 as a potential candidate for protective agent against cisplatin-induced ototoxicity.

Serum 1,5-anhydroglucitol is associated with diabetic retinopathy in Type 2 diabetes

AIMS

To determine whether there is a relationship between 1,5-anhydroglucitol (1,5-AG), a marker of postprandial hyperglycaemia and glycaemic variability, and the presence of diabetic retinopathy and albuminuria in patients with Type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Five hundred and sixty-seven patients with Type 2 diabetes (serum creatinine < 133 μmol/l), who were enrolled in the Seoul Metro-City Diabetes Prevention Program (SMC-DPP), were cross-sectionally assessed by multivariate logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

After controlling for age, sex, binary HbA(1c) levels, duration of diabetes, triglyceride, systolic blood pressure, smoking status, history of hypertension and dyslipidaemia, and the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker medication, the odds ratios (95% CI) of diabetic retinopathy were 2.86 (1.12-7.25) for the first (lowest) quartile of 1,5-anhydroglucitol, 2.87 (1.25-6.61) for the second quartile and 0.88 (0.35-2.22) for the third quartile compared with the fourth quartile (P for trend = 0.010). Conversely, the associations between 1,5-anhydroglucitol and clinical albuminuria were non-significant after adjustment. Subjects with low 1,5-anhydroglucitol (< 10.0 μg/ml) were more likely to experience diabetic retinopathy than those with high 1,5-anhydroglucitol (≥ 10.0 μg/ml) under moderate glucose control (HbA(1c) < 8%, 64 mmol/mol) and there were no significant differences in the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy between the subgroup with HbA(1c) < 8% (64 mmol/mol) and low 1,5-anhydroglucitol and the subgroup with HbA(1c) ≥ 8% (64 mmol/mol).

CONCLUSIONS

1,5-Anhydroglucitol levels show close associations with diabetic retinopathy, especially among patients under moderate glucose control, but not with albuminuria. These results suggest that 1,5-anhydroglucitol might be a complementary marker for targeting higher risk group.

Closed-wedge high tibial osteotomy using computer-assisted surgery compared to the conventional technique

We assessed the reliability, accuracy and variability of closed-wedge high tibial osteotomy (HTO) using computer-assisted surgery compared to the conventional technique. A total of 50 closed-wedge HTO procedures were performed using the navigation system, and compared with 50 HTOs that had been performed with the conventional technique. In the navigation group, the mean mechanical axis prior to osteotomy was varus 8.2 degrees, and the mean mechanical axis following fixation was valgus 3.6 degrees. On the radiographs the mean pre-operative mechanical axis was varus 7.3 degrees, and the mean post-operative mechanical axis was valgus 2.1 degrees . There was a positive correlation between the measured data taken under navigation and by radiographs (r > 0.3, p < 0.05). The mean correction angle was significantly more accurate in the navigation group (p < 0.002). The variability of the correction was significantly lower in the navigation group (2.3 degrees vs 3.7 degrees , p = 0,012). We conclude that navigation provides reliable real-time intra-operative information, may increase accuracy, and improves the precision of a closed-wedge HTO.

Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci from rock shell, Thais clavigera

Imposex (superimposition of male genital organs on female phenotype) of the rock shell or whelk, Thais clavigera, shows typical evidence of endocrine disruption by organotin compounds within inter-tidal zones polluted by such compounds. It will be informative to see how low fertility caused by imposex of this species finally affects the genetic diversity of polluted populations. For future use in population genetic research of the rock shell, we report the isolation and characteristics of 11 highly polymorphic microsatellite markers with a mean of 11.7 alleles per locus. We observed heterozygosities of these sequences ranging from 0.43 to 0.95. These markers will be useful for future ecological genetic studies of rock shell.

Paired box 6 (PAX6) regulates glucose metabolism via proinsulin processing mediated by prohormone convertase 1/3 (PC1/3)

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Human patients with aniridia caused by heterozygous PAX6 mutations display abnormal glucose metabolism, but the underlying molecular mechanism is largely unknown. Disturbed islet architecture has been proposed as the reason why mice with complete inactivation of paired box 6 (PAX6) in the pancreas develop diabetes. This is not, however, the case in human aniridia patients with heterozygous PAX6 deficiency and no apparent defects in pancreatic development. We investigated the molecular mechanism underlying the development of abnormal glucose metabolism in these patients.

METHODS

A human aniridia pedigree with a PAX6 R240Stop mutation was examined for abnormal glucose metabolism using an OGTT. The underlying mechanism was further investigated using Pax6 R266Stop mutant small-eye mice, which also have abnormal glucose metabolism similar to that in PAX6 R240Stop mutation human aniridia patients.

RESULTS

Paired box 6 (PAX6) deficiency, both in aniridia patients with a heterozygous PAX6 R240Stop mutation and in mice with a heterozygous Pax6 R266Stop mutation, causes defective proinsulin processing and abnormal glucose metabolism. PAX6 can bind to the promoter and directly upregulate production of prohormone convertase (PC)1/3, an enzyme essential for conversion of proinsulin to insulin. Pax6 mutations lead to PC1/3 deficiency, resulting in defective proinsulin processing and abnormal glucose metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

This study indicates a novel function for PAX6 in the regulation of proinsulin processing and glucose metabolism via modulation of PC1/3 production. It also provides an insight into the abnormal glucose metabolism caused by heterozygous PAX6 mutations in humans and mice.

Microwave assisted synthesis of nanocrystalline Fe-phosphates electrode materials and their electrochemical properties

LiFePO4 nanocrystalline particles were synthesized using microwave assisted polyol process within a fast reaction time of 20 minutes without any further heating as a post step. The synthesized LiFePO4 nanocrystalline particles showed mono-dispersed rod and orthorhombic-like shapes with a size of 60 approximately 180 nm. The refined X-ray diffraction pattern of the sample was indexed well to the olivine crystal structure (space group: Pnma) without any impurity phases. The LiFePO4 nanocrystalline particles show a capacity of 161 mAh/g in a voltage range of 2.5-4.2 V with a current density of 0.1 mA/cm2 without any observable capacity fading in extended cycles of 100th. A cyclic voltammetry analysis exhibits distinctly sharp peaks corresponding to the typical LiFePO4/FePO4 redox couples and demonstrates a good reversibility of the sample.

Activated protein C ratio, plasma tissue factor activity and activated factor VII in Chinese patients with coronary heart disease

OBJECTIVE

There is close relationship between abnormal coagulation system and progression of coronary heart disease (CHD), our purpose is to evaluate the contribution of hematologic factors and some other risk factors to the development of coronary heart disease (CHD) in Chinese population.

METHODS

56 patients with CHD at admission and 54 controls were enrolled. Plasma levels of protein C, free protein S, total protein S, thrombomodulin, activated factor VII (FVIIa), factor VII:Ag, P-selectin, tissue-type plasminogen activator, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 were measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, activity of tissue factor (aTF) by chromogenic activity assay, and activated protein C (APC) ratio, prothrombin time, aPTT, fibrinogen, D-dimmer and thrombin time by full-automated coagulation analyzer.

RESULTS

Compared with controls, plasma level of thrombomodulin, FVIIa, factor VII:Ag and aTF were raised in CHD group (p<0.05, 0.001, 0.05, and 0.05, respectively). The average APC ratio in CHD group was lower than that in controls (p<0.001). The result of binary logistic regression analysis showed that activated factor VII (OR2.680, 95%CI1.539-4.665) and tissue factor activity (OR1.019, 95%CI1.004-1.035) were risk factors and high density lipoprotein (OR0.008, 95%CI0-0.478) and activated protein C ratio (OR0.001, 95%CI0-0.011) were protective factors for CHD.

CONCLUSIONS

Low activated protein C ratio, elevated tissue factor activity and increased activated factor VII in plasma may contribute to development of coronary heart disease.

[Effect of arsenic trioxide on the expression of apoptosis-related genes in NB4 cells]

The aim of this study was to investigate the gene expression profiles of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) cell line NB4 treated with arsenic trioxide (As2O3) by using cDNA microarray. cDNA probes were prepared through reverse transcription from mRNA of NB4 cells treated with or without arsenic trioxide. The probes were labeled with Cy3 and Cy5 fluorescence dyes individually, hybridized with cDNA microarray representing 201 different human genes, and their fluorescent intensities were scanned. The genes were screened through the analysis of the difference in the gene expression profile. The results showed that after the treatment of arsenic trioxide (2 micromol/L), 6 genes were up-regulated, and 12 genes related to apoptosis and signal transduction were down-regulated. The p21, survivin, cdc2 and Wee1Hu genes may be related to the differentiation and/or apoptosis of NB4 cells induced by As2O3. It is concluded that p21, survivin, cdc2 and Wee1Hu may play an important role in the mechanism underling arsenic trioxide-mediated NB4 cell apoptosis.

[Inhibition of tissue factor by siRNA enhances doxorubicin-induced apoptosis in human neuroblastoma]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the regulation of tissue factor (TF) on doxorubicin-induced apoptosis in human neuroblastoma.

METHOD

The expression of TF was examined by Western blotting. TF siRNA-pSUPER plasmid was constructed by inserting a specific 19-nt silencing sequence targeting TF gene into pSUPER vector. Transfection of TF siRNA-pSUPER was performed using lipofectamine 2000. The activation of caspase-3 and PARP induced by doxorubicin was tested by Western blotting. The apoptotic cells were stained by Hochest 33342 and counted under fluorescence inverted microscope.

RESULTS

(1) Human neuroblastoma cell line SK-N-MC expressed high level of TF. (2) Downregulation of TF expression was achieved by transfection of TF siRNA-pSUPER into SK-N-MC cells in a dose-dependent manner. (3) Cleavage of caspase-3 and PARP was increased in transfected SK-N-MC cell with down-regulation of TF. (4) TF siRNA treatment at 1 microg/ml for 8 h significantly increased apoptotic cell number in transfected SK-N-MC cells compared to that in non-transfected cells (P < 0.05) while exposing to 1 microg/ml doxorubicin for 8 h.

CONCLUSIONS

Downregulation of TF expression by specific siRNA vector could increase the cytotoxicity of doxorubicin and enhance doxorubicin-induced apoptosis in human neuroblastoma cells.

[Gene of DNA-dependent protein kinase catalylic subunit in chronic myeloid leukemia]

This study was aimed to investigate the expression and regulation mechanism of DNA-dependent protein kinase catalylic subunit (DNA-PKcs) in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and its role in blast crisis of CML. Expression of DNA-PKcs mRNA was detected by semi-quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and DNA-PKcs protein by Western blot in 62 CML patients and K562, as compared to those of 23 normal individual controls. In 26 CML patients received allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (allo-PBSCT) and 4 CML patients treated with imatinib, the expression of bcr-abl mRNA and DNA-PKcs protein was detected by RT-PCR and Western blot, respectively. After treatment with imatinib in mononuclear cell (MNC) of CML patients and K562 in vitro, expression of DNA-PKcs mRNA was detected by RT-PCR and DNA-PKcs protein level, tyrosine phosphorylation of bcr-abl fusion protein were detected by Western blot. The results showed that the expression of DNA-PKcs protein was significantly lower in CML and K562 than those in normal control (P<0.05). In 26 CML patients received allo-PBSCT and 4 CML patients treated with imatinib, the expression of DNA-PKcs protein was enhanced while the expression of bcr-abl mRNA decreased. After treatment of MNC of CML and K562 with imatinib in vitro, the expression of DNA-PKcs protein was enhanced while tyrosine phosphorylation of bcr-abl fusion protein decreased. It is concluded that the expression of DNA-PKcs protein is down-regulate by bcr-abl fusion gene, and the bcr-abl fusion gene down-regulate the expression of DNA-PKcs protein by post-transcriptional mechanism; the decrease of DNA-PKcs protein expression may be one of mechanisms underlying the acute transformation of CML.

[Effects of arsenic trioxide or retinoic acid on mRNA and protein expression of tissue factor and thrombomodulin and procoagulant activity in NB4 cells]

To investigate the effect of arsenic trioxide (As(2)O(3)) or all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) on the mRNA and protein expression of tissue factor (TF) and thrombomodulin (TM) and procoagulant activity (PCA) in NB4 cells. The NB4 cells were cultured in vitro and treated with As(2)O(3) or ATRA, expression of TF and TM antigen, and PCA change of treated NB4 cells were detected with ELISA, TF and TM mRNA transcription on the NB4 cells was assayed with reversed transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The results showed that 1 micromol/L As(2)O(3) and 1 micromol/L ATRA both gradually downregulated the expression of TF antigen and mRNA on NB4 cells, a human promyelocytic leukemia cell line, in time-dependent manner, as compared with control. The levels of TF antigen expression in AS(2)O(3) group were 13.3 +/- 1.8, 8.6 +/- 1.9, 10.8 +/- 1.5, 2.0 +/- 0.6 and 2.6 +/- 0.9 ng/10(7) respectively; while the levels of TF antigen expression in ATRA group were 12.4 +/- 1.1, 11.3 +/- 1.8, 5.7 +/- 1.7, 2.8 +/- 0.8 and 2.0 +/- 0.6 ng/10(7) at 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 hours respectively (P<0.05). The procoagulant activity (PCA) of NB4 cells was decreased, blood coagulation times were 123.5 +/- 10.5, 156.3 +/- 11.6, 179.3 +/- 15.3, 248.9 +/- 20.1, 312.0 +/- 29.8 seconds in As(2)O(3) groups, respectively; 76.4 +/- 5.6, 146.8 +/- 10.9, 198.2 +/- 15.6, 265.8 +/- 20.6 and 363.8 +/- 31.9 seconds in ATRA groups respectively at 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 hours (P<0.05). ATRA upregulated TM antigen expression on NB4 cells. It is concluded that the As(2)O(3) and ATRA decrease mRNA transcription of TF, downregulate expression of TF and reduce procoagulant activity in NB4 cells. The TM transcription and expression upregulated by ATRA may alleviate dysfunction of coagulation in APL.

Temporal expression of proteoglycans in the rat limb during bone healing

Proteoglycans found in the bone extracellular matrix and on the cell surface can complex with HBGFs such as the FGFs, TGFs and BMPs which are known to play key roles in regulating fracture healing. Here we have studied the expression of key PGs during the bone repair process in order to determine the relationship between PG expression and healing status. We created non-critical sized trephine defects just proximal to the distal end of the tibial crest of adult male Wistar rats and examined the healing process histologically as well as by monitoring the temporal expression of mRNA transcripts for ALP, OP and OC, together with HSPG, CSPG and FGF-FGF receptor expression. Following surgery, animals were allowed to recover, and then euthanized after 7, 14, 21 and 28 days post-surgery, at which time tissue was harvested for histological examination and total RNA extracted and the mRNA transcripts examined by quantitative real-time PCR. HS and CSPG expression was generally observed to increase in the days immediately following injury, reaching peak expression two weeks post-surgery. This was followed by a gradual return to basal levels by day 28. The expression patterns of PGs were broadly similar with those of ALP, OP and FGFRs. The increase of mRNA expression for many key PGs detected during bone healing coincided with the elevation of bone markers and FGFRs, and provides further evidence that PGs involved in bone repair act in part through susceptible growth factors, including the FGF/FGFR system. The data presented here indicates that increased proteoglycan expression is involved in the early stages of bone healing at a time when previous studies have shown that the levels of HBGFs are maximal. Hence there exists a rationale for an exploration of the use of exogenous PGs as an adjunct therapy to potentiate the powerful effects of these factors and to augment the natural healing response.

Four peptide hormones' specific decrease (up to 97%) of human prostate carcinoma cells

BACKGROUND

Mortality from prostate cancer remains a significant problem with current treatment(s), with an expected 30 350 deaths from prostate cancer in 2005. Long-acting natriuretic peptide, vessel dilator, kaliuretic peptide and atrial natriuretic peptide have significant anticancer effects in breast and pancreatic adenocarcinomas. Whether these effects are specific and whether they have anticancer effects in prostate adenocarcinoma cells has not been determined.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

These peptide hormones were evaluated to determine if they have specific anticancer effects in human prostate adenocarcinomas.

RESULTS

Dose-response curves revealed a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in human prostate cancer number with each tenfold increase in the concentration from 1 microM to 1000 microM (i.e. 1 mM) of these four peptide hormones. There was a 97.4%, 87%, 88% and 89% (P < 0.001 for each) decrease in prostate cancer cells secondary to vessel dilator, long-acting natriuretic peptide, kaliuretic peptide and atrial natriuretic peptide, respectively, at their 1-mM concentrations within 24 h, without any proliferation in the 3 days following this decrease. These same hormones decreased DNA synthesis from 68% to 89% (P < 0.001). When utilized with their respective antibodies their ability to decrease prostate adenocarcinoma cells or inhibit their DNA synthesis was completely blocked. Western blots revealed that for the first time natriuretic peptide receptors (NPR) A- and C- were present in prostate cancer cells.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that these peptide hormones' anticancer effects are specific. Furthermore, they have very potent effects of eliminating up to 97% of prostate cancer cells within 24 h of treatment.

[Regulatory effect of IL-10 on expression of tissue factor induced by IL-6 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells]

To investigate the role of anti-inflammatory cytokine in acute coronary syndrome (ACS), the effect of IL-10 on expression of tissue factor (TF) induced by IL-6 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNC) were studied. PBMNC were allowed to culture with rhIL-10 before being stimulated by rhIL-6. One-step recalcification clotting time was used to evaluate procoagulant activity (PCA) of PBMNC. The expression and activity of TF protein were determined by ELISA and cell chromogenic substrate assay. The results showed that the expression of PCA, TF protein and its activity in PBMNC increased significantly after being stimulated by rhIL-6 (P < 0.01). In PBMNC, rhIL-6-induced PCA was regulated by rhIL-10 in different doses. This effect was associated with reduction of TF protein expression and activity by rhIL-10 (P < 0.01). In conclusion, IL-10 down-regulated expression PCA and TF in PBMNC, inhibitory effect of IL-10 on expression and activity of PBMNC TF may be important protective mechanism for ACS, regulation imbalance between inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines may be important factor participating in coronary thrombosis.

Total knee arthroplasty in stiff knees after previous infection

Between July 1986 and August 1996, we performed 32 total knee arthroplasties (TKA) on 32 patients with partially or completely ankylosed knees secondary to infection. Their mean age at surgery was 40 years (20 to 63) and the mean follow-up was ten years (5 to 13). The mean post-operative range of movement was 75.3° (30 to 115) in those with complete and 98.7° (60 to 130) in those with partial ankylosis. The mean Hospital for Special Surgery knee score increased from 57 to 86 points post-operatively. There were complications in four knees (12.5%), which included superficial infection (one), deep infection (one), supracondylar femoral fracture (one) and transient palsy of the common peroneal nerve (one). Although TKA in the ankylosed knee is technically demanding and has a considerable rate of complications, reasonable restoration of function can be obtained by careful selection of patients, meticulous surgical technique, and aggressive rehabilitation.

Studies on the receptors mediating responses of osteoblasts to thrombin

The serine protease thrombin stimulates proliferation in osteoblasts, but decreases alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, a marker of osteoblast differentiation. Three thrombin receptors have been identified, protease activated receptor (PAR)-1, PAR-3 and PAR-4; we have previously demonstrated that mouse osteoblasts express PAR-1 and PAR-4. The effect of thrombin on osteoblast proliferation and differentiation was studied to determine which of the thrombin receptors is responsible for the primary effects of thrombin. Primary mouse calvarial osteoblasts from PAR-1-null and wild-type mice, and synthetic peptides that specifically activate PAR-1 (TFFLR-NH2) and PAR-4 (AYPGKF-NH2) were used. Both the PAR-1-activating peptide and thrombin stimulated incorporation of 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (two to four-fold, P < 0.001) and reduced alkaline phosphatase activity (approximately three-fold, P < 0.05) in cells from wild-type mice. The PAR-4-activating peptide, however, had no effect on either alkaline phosphatase activity or proliferation in these cells. Neither thrombin nor PAR-4-activating peptide was able to affect osteoblast proliferation or alkaline phosphatase activity in cells isolated from PAR-1-null mice. The results demonstrate that thrombin stimulates proliferation and inhibits differentiation of osteoblasts through activation of PAR-1. No other thrombin receptor appears to be involved in these effects.

Secondary insults and outcomes in patients with hypertensive basal ganglia hemorrhage

This study was designed to monitor secondary insults and their impact on outcomes of patients with hypertensive basal ganglia hemorrhage (HBGH). One hundred and twelve patients with HBGH (male 73, female 39) of age 42 +/- 8 years (range from 38 to 57 years) were studied. Operations included craniotomy or trephination drainage with urokinase thrombolysis. Conventional therapies were also given to the patients including the administration of mannitol, crystalloid and colloid solution. In the meantime, blood pressure (MAP), temperature (T) and SaO2 and other parameters were recorded in the intensive care unit. The ICP values were recorded, and the early clinical outcome was assessed upon discharge according to Glasgow Outcome Scale. Cerebral Perfusion Pressure was calculated as CPP = MAP-MICP. Outcomes in the group without secondary insults were better than that in the group with secondary insults (P < 0.01). No unfavorable outcomes were found in the 59 cases managed by ultra-early surgery whereas 36.1% of the cases operated after 6 hours of onset had unfavorable outcomes. It is concluded that the high incident rate of secondary insults in HICH patients influences outcome. Ultra-early surgery may also contribute to improved quality of survival.

[Coagulation factor VII levels in uremic patients and theirs influence factors]

This study was aimed to investigate coagulation factor VII level in uremic patients with chronic renal failure and to explore theirs influence factors. The plasma levels of coagulation factor VII were detected in 30 uremic patients with chronic renal failure before and after hemodialysis for 1 month, the factor VII activity (FVII:C) was determined by one-stage coagulation method, while activated factor VII (FVIIa) was measured by one-stage coagulation method using recombinant soluble tissue factor, and factor VII antigen was detected by ELISA. The results showed that: (1) The FVIIa, FVII:C and FVIIAg levels in chronic uremic patients before hemodialysis were 4.00 +/- 0.86 microg/L, (148.5 +/- 40.4)% and (99.8 +/- 21.1)% respectively, which were significantly increased, as compared with healthy controls [2.77 +/- 1.02 microg/L, (113.1 +/- 33.0)% and (73.7 +/- 18.3)% respectively, P < 0.05]. (2) After hemodialysis the FVIIa, FVII:C and FVIIAg levels in uremic patients significantly enhanced to 5.56 +/- 1.45 microg/L, (200.8 +/- 68.7)% and (124.1 +/- 19.3)% respectively (P < 0.05). (3) The abnormal increase of coagulation factor VII was positively correlated with levels of blood uria nitrogen and serum creatinine before hemodialysis but not after hemodialysis. It is concluded that the enhanced levels of coagulation factor VII in chronic uremic patients suggested abnormal activated state, herperactivity and elevated production of factor VII which correlated with renal functional injury. The abnormality of factor VII in uremia may be aggravated by hemodialysis. Coagulation factor (FVII) may be a risk factor for cardiovascular events in uremic patients who especially had been accepted long-term hemodialysis.

[Study of the effect of TF/FVIIa complex on the expression of u-PAR mRNA in human ovarian cancer]

OBJECTIVE

To construct the expression vector of human tissue factor (TF), and investigate the influence of TF/coagulant factor VIIa (FVIIa) complex on the transcriptional expression of urokinase plasminogen activator (u-PA) and u-PA receptor (u-PAR) in human ovarian cancer.

METHODS

The human TF cDNA was obtained from placenta by RT-PCR and then inserted into eukaryotic expression vector pcDNA3 to obtain the TF-pcDNA3 combinant. This combinant was transfected into human ovarian cancer cell line A2780 by lipofectamine. Stably-transfected cells A2780/TF were screened. A2780 and A2780/TF cell lines were stimulated by FVIIa respectively, and the transcriptional levels of u-PA and u-PAR were examined by RT-PCR.

RESULTS

(1) The constructed product was identified as TF-pcDNA3 combinant by sequencing. (2) TF was highly expressed not only at transcriptional level in the stable-transfected A2780/TF cell (transfected cell 3.91 +/- 0.28, untransfected cell 0.97 +/- 0.23, P < 0.01), but also on the membrane of the cell surface [transfected cell (48.56 +/- 9.53)%, untransfected cell (2.73 +/- 1.15)%, P < 0.01]. (3) The u-PA and u-PAR mRNA levels in A2780 cell line did not change significantly after stimulated by FVIIa; (4) While stimulated by FVIIa, the u-PAR mRNA levels in A2780/TF cells increased significantly in both dose-dependent and time-dependent manner, while the u-PA mRNA levels did not change significantly; (5) In the A2780/TF cell line the enhanced expression of u-PAR mRNA by FVIIa was significantly inhibited by coincubated with anti-TF antibody.

CONCLUSION

TF/FVIIa complex could up-regulate the transcription of u-PAR in human ovarian cancer cells so as to enhance tumor invasion and metastasis.

Catalyzed ozonation process with GAC and metal doped-GAC for removing organic pollutants

The purpose of this study was to investigate the catalytic role of granular activated carbon (GAC), and metal (Mn or Fe) doped-GAC, on the transformation of ozone into more reactive secondary radicals, such as hydroxyl radicals (*OH), for the treatment of wastewater. The GAC doped with Mn showed the highest catalytic performance in terms of ozone decomposition into OH radicals. Likewise, activated carbon alone accelerated the ozone decomposition, resulting in the formation of *OH radicals. In the presence of promoters, the ozone depletion rate was enhanced further by the Mn-GAC catalyst system, even under aqueous acidic pH conditions.

[Cloning of expression vector of human tissue factor gene and its expression in human ovarian cancer cell line]

The aim was to construct the expressive vector of human tissue factor (TF), and determine its expressive level in stable-transfected human ovarian cancer cell line. The human TFcDNA was obtained from human placenta by RT-PCR and then inserted into eukaryotic expressive vector pcDNA3 to obtain the TF-pcDNA3 recombinant. This recombinant gene was introduced into human ovarian cell line A2780 through transfection mediated by lipofectamine. Stable-transfected cells were screened by G418. The TF expressive levels were detected by RT-PCR and flow cytometry. The results showed that: (1) the constructed product was identified as TF-pcDNA3 recombinant by sequencing. (2) TF was highly expressed not only at transcriptional level in the stable-transfected A2780 cell (transfected cell 3.99 +/- 0.15, untransfected cell 0.97 +/- 0.23, P < 0.01), but also on the membrane of the cell surface [transfected cell (48.56 +/- 9.53)%, untransfected cell (2.73 +/- 1.15)%, P < 0.01]. It was concluded that TF gene was successfully cloned, and was introduced into human ovarian cancer cell, and the subline A2780/TF which stably expresses TF at high level was obtained. It will provide good experimental basis for investigating new mechanisms of tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, hypercoagulability, and for exploring a new strategy of gene therapy.

[Role of tissue factor pathway inhibitor-2 in ovarian tumor migration and invasion]

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE

Human tissue factor pathway inhibitor-2 (TFPI-2) is a newly discovered serine protease inhibitor, which inhibits plasmin, trypsin, matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs), but not urokinase, tissue-type plasminogen activators and thrombin. Earlier studies have shown that the production of TFPI-2 is downregulated during the progression of various cancers. The aim of this study was to elucidate the relationship between TFPI-2 expression and ovarian tumor migration and invasion.

METHODS

Human TFPI-2 expression vector pBos-Cite-neo/TFPI-2 was transfected into ovarian tumor cells line A2780. After the transfected cells were screened by G418, transfected and nontransfected cells were examined for TFPI-2 mRNA and protein by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot analysis, respectively. The number of transfected or nontransfected cells passing through membrane of Boyden chamber was counted as the basis assessing tumor cells migratory and invasive behaviors.

RESULTS

Expression of mRNA and protein of TFPI-2 were confirmed in transfected cells. In invasion assay, the number of TFPI-2-expressing cells to traverse a Matrigel-coated membrane was obviously decreased compared with that of nonexpressing cells (59.3+/-6.5 versus 109.7+/-5.5, P< 0.01); while in migration assay, no significant difference was observed between transfected and nontransfected cells (114.7+/-8.6 versus 127.3+/-7.1, P >0.05).

CONCLUSION

Expression of TFPI-2 may strongly inhibit the invasive ability of ovarian tumor cells in vitro, but has no effect on the migratory ability, which provides an experimental basis for treating human ovarian tumor with gene therapy.

[Tissue factor expression in human umbilical vien endothelial cells stimulated by TNF-alpha and its molecular mechanism]

The objective of this study was to explore tissue factor (TF) expression induced by TNF-alpha in cultured human umbilical vien endothelial cells (HUVEC) and its molecular mechanism. TF expression on the surface of HUVEC, TF mRNA and nuclear factor kappaB (NF-kappaB) in HUVEC were detected by flow cytometry, RT-PCR and Western blot respectively. The results showed that TNF-alpha could enhance TF expression on the surface of HUVEC, the TF expression increase was highly consistent with the increased synthesis of TF mRNA, and the increase of TF expression was lately appeared for several hours. It was also found activation of NF kappaB at the time TF mRNA increase. In conclusion, NF-kappaB could be activated promptly after HUVEC incubated with TNF-alpha, then it was bound to TF promotor to start the TF transcription, TF mRNA expression was upregulated, that leaded to the increase of TF expression on the HUVEC surface and activated the coagulation cascade.

[Experimental study on activating antileukemic T cells by vaccination with dendritic cells pulsed with survivin]

The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of vaccination with dendritic cells pulsed with survivin antigen on activation of antileukemic T cells, and inhibiting proliferation of leukemic cells. The expression of survivin on acute leukemic cells were detected by cofocal microscopy and immunoprecipitation-Western blot. DCs collected from peripheral blood mononuclear cells were pulsed with survivin purified proteins. Stimulation index (SI) and antileukemia CTL induction were analyzed with (3)H-TdR incorporation and (51)Cr releasing assay, respectively. The phenotype of T cells and DCs were identified by flow cytometry. By immunofluorescence of bone marrow and peripheral blood mononuclear cells, survivin expression was detected in 16 out of 19 AML cases (84.2%). The results showed that survivin fluorescence distribution was in cytoplasm. DCs from peripheral blood mononuclear cells were successfully induced, with typical DC morphologic characteristic. The vaccination with dendritic cells pulsed with survivin antigen dramatically stimulated the proliferation of T cells. The DCs loading survivin activated T cells with higher CD4(+) T(H) ratio as compared with DCs group, T cells activated with DCs expressed CD8 and CD56. Survivin DCs significantly inhibited the growth of leukemic cells in vitro. In conclusion, survivin antigen expressed in the cytoplasm of leukemic cells, leukemic vaccination with DCs pulsed with survivin antigen in vitro inhibited the proliferation of leukemic cells, that may be a pathway for therapy of leukemia.

[Construction of expression vector for recombinant annexin II and characteristics of its fibrinolysis]

The study was designed to investigate annexin II resulting in molecular pathological mechanism of the primary fibrinolysis and establish annexin II vector model for further research on disturbance of coagulation. A target gene was amplified from human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) by RT-PCR. Annexin II gene fragment was purified and ligated with molecular biological recombinant technology. The recombinant of plasmid annexin II was transfected into HL-60 cells and its distribution in the cell and structure characteristics of annexin II protein were evaluated by multi-photon excitation laser scanning microscope. By means of flow cytometry (FCM) and Werstern blot technique, the protein expression was qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed. Transfected cells were treated in vitro with annexin II antisense oligonucleotide (AS) targeting to the start site of annexin II cDNA. The results showed that the recombinant pZeoSV2(+)/ANN II was constructed successfully and expressed in HL-60 cells. The protein expression was distributed on the surface of cell by fluorescence assay. After transfection for 48 hours, the cells occurred higher level of expression. The level of the plasmin was significantly enhanced in the present of annexin II. The FCM and Western blot analysis showed the annexin II expression was similar both in transiently and stably transfected in HL-60 cells. Annexin II antisense oligonucletide and McAb significantly inhibited the activity of plasminogen. It was concluded that annexin II plays an important role in the fibrinotysis. Annexin II vector was defined as a expression tool for further studying fibrinolysis and coagulopathy in malignant disease.

[Apoptosis of Fas(+) Yac-1 cells induced with Fas ligand-transfected COS-7 cells]

The possibility of immunotherapy for lymphoma by single FasL-Fas way was investigated. After pBillneo-mFasL was transformed into competent E. coli DH5alpha and amplified, the plasmid DNA was prepared and purified from the DH5alpha. To determine the primary structure and inserting direction of mFasL cDNA gene in pBillneo-mFasL, the plasmid DNA was cleaved by restriction enzyme, and the mFasL cDNA of pBillneo-mFasL was amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the DNA sequence of the PCR product was analysed by automatic DNA sequencing. After pBillneo-mFasL was transfected into COS-7 cells by liposome, the COS-7 cells were selected with G418 selective medium, and the expressing levels of mFasL cDNA on the COS-7 cell membrane was assayed by Western Blot. After the COS-7 cells higher expressing mFasL protein and mouse lymphoma cell line Yac-1 expressing Fas were cocultured for 5 hours, the suspending Yac-1 cells were collected and labeled by annexin V/PI kit. The apoptosis rate of the Yac-1 cells was tested by flow cytometry. The EcoRI cleaving products of pBillneo-mF asL included 920 bp and 7227 bp fragments. Its Hind III cleaving products included 1293 bp and 6807 bp fragments. These results showed: (1) the length of DNA sequence containing mFasL cDNA within pBillneo-mFasL is the same as theoretical length; (2) the inserting of mFasL cDNA in pBillneo-mFasL was in positive orientation. The expected 890 bp DNA fragments of mFasL cDNA (from ATG to +36 bp following TAA) emerged in PCR product with pBillneo-mFasL as a template. The sequencing result of the PCR product equaled the known mFasL cDNA sequence in the gene bank. The COS-7 cells transfected by pBillneo-mFasL and selected with G418 culture medium expressed more mFasL membrane protein assayed by Western Blot. After the COS-7 cells were cocultured with Fas(+) Yac-1 cells in different E:T ratios (1:1, 5:1 and 10:1) for 5 hours, the apoptosis rates of Yac-1 cells were (22 +/- 4.8)%, (32.18 +/- 7.8)%, and (51.8 +/- 5.4)%, respectively. These were obviously different from the control group (P < 0.01), in which the COS-7 cell was transfected by pBillneo (not carrying mFasL gene). It was concluded that lymphoma cells highly expressing Fas can be effectively killed through single Fas-FasL way in vitro.

Protease-activated receptors: a means of converting extracellular proteolysis into intracellular signals

Protease-activated receptors (PARs) mediate cellular responses to a variety of extracellular proteases. The four known PARs constitute a subgroup of the family of seven-transmembrane domain G protein-coupled receptors and activate intracellular signalling pathways typical for this family of receptors. Activation of PARs involves proteolytic cleavage of the extracellular domain, resulting in formation of a new N terminus, which acts as a tethered ligand. PAR-1, -3, and -4 are relatively selective for activation by thrombin whereas PAR-2 is activated by a variety of proteases, including trypsin and tryptase. Recent studies in mice genetically incapable of expressing specific PARs have defined roles for PAR-1 in vascular development, and for PAR-3 and -4 in platelet activation, which plays a fundamental role in blood coagulation. PAR-1 has also been implicated in a variety of other biological processes including inflammation, and brain and muscle development. Responses mediated by PAR-2 include contraction of intestinal smooth muscle, epithelium-dependent smooth muscle relaxation in the airways and vasculature, and potentiation of inflammatory responses. The area of PAR research is rapidly expanding our understanding of how cells communicate and control biological functions, in turn increasing our knowledge of disease processes and providing potential targets for therapeutic intervention.

Partial characterization of farnesyl and geranylgeranyl diphosphatases induced in rice seedlings by UV-C irradiation

This study reports the identification and characterization of allyl diphosphatases (EC 3.1.7.1) in plants by using rice seedlings. Two distinct Mg(2+)-independent allyl diphosphatases, which convert farnesyl diphosphate (FDP) and geranylgeranyl diphosphate (GGDP) into farnesol and geranylgeraniol, respectively, were induced in rice seedlings irradiated with UV-C. Farnesyl diphosphatase (FDPase) and geranylgeranyl diphosphatase (GGDPase) are located in the microsomal fraction. The relative specific activity of FDPase was much higher than the specific activity of GGDPase. FDPase activity was inhibited by GGDP (50% inhibition at 5 microM) and geranyl diphosphate (50% inhibition at 100 microM). In contrast, GGDPase activity was inhibited 50% by 50 microM isopentenyl diphosphate or 100 microM FDP. The optimal pH for FDPase was 6.3 and for GGDPase was 7.9.

Outcome following addition of peroneus brevis tendon transfer to treatment of acquired posterior tibial tendon insufficiency

The flexor digitorum longus, the tendon most often used for transfer in posterior tibial tendon insufficiency, is one-half to one-third the size of the posterior tibial tendon. Occasionally it may be particularly small or may have been previously used for transfer. In these cases, the senior author has felt that the addition of a transfer of the Peroneus Brevis (PBr) tendon may be helpful in maintaining sufficient tendon and muscle mass to rebalance the foot. Thirteen patients who underwent this procedure were retrospectively identified and matched by age and length of follow-up to patients who underwent a more standard tendon transfer operation minus the addition of the PBr transfer. Pain and functional status were then assessed by the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society's ankle/hindfoot rating scale. Each patient was tested by an independent physical therapist to evaluate inversion and eversion strength. The mean duration of follow-up was 20.6 months (12 to 34 months). The average AOFAS score of the PBr group was 75.8 compared to 71.5 for the standard control group. There was no significant difference between the groups when inversion or eversion strengths were compared. Inversion strength and eversion strength was rated good or excellent (4 or 5) in 12 out of 13 of the PBr transfer group patients. No major complications were encountered in either group. Although it does not increase inversion strength, a PBr transfer can be used to augment a small FDL without causing significant eversion weakness. This can be useful when the FDL is particularly small or in revision surgery.

Five saponins from the root bark of Aralia elata

Five saponins, 3-O-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl (1-->2)-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl (1-->3)]-beta-D-glucopyranosyl]-oleanolic acid 28-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester (aralia-saponin V), 3-O-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl (1-->2)-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl (1-->3)]-beta-D-glucopyranosyl]-echinocystic acid 28-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester (aralia-saponin VI), 3-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl (1-->2)-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl (1-->3)]-beta-D-glucopyranosyl]-hederagenin 28-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester (aralia-saponin VII), 3-O-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-->3)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-->3)-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-->2)]-beta-D-glucopyranosyl]-caulophyllogenin 28-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester (aralia-saponin VIII), 3-O-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl (1-->2)-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl(1-->3)]-alpha-L-arabinopyranosyl]-hederagenin 28-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester (aralia-saponin IX), were isolated from the root bark of Aralia elata (Miq.) Seem., together with four known compounds. Their structures were determined on the basis of chemical and spectroscopic methods.

Synthesis of thiophenyl substituted cyclohexa-2,4-dien-1-one and its photocleavage coupling reaction with amines

Thiophenyl substituted cyclohexa-2,4-dien-1-ones were synthesized and photolyzed in the presence of various amines to afford the amides containing diene moeties via the ketene intermediate under visible light irradiation at 38 degrees C.

Deltoid ligament strain after correction of acquired flatfoot deformity by triple arthrodesis

Deltoid insufficiency represents a difficult surgical challenge. We have witnessed patients who have developed a valgus tibiotalar deformity following a properly positioned triple arthrodesis. To investigate whether the triple arthrodesis itself, by creating a rigid triple joint complex below the ankle, leads to increased strain of the deltoid complex, a flatfoot model was created in 8 fresh-frozen below-knee amputation specimens. Each specimen was loaded in three gait cycle (GC) positions: Heel strike (0% GC), midstance (10% GC), and heel rise (40% GC). The three components of the ground reaction force (GRF) and the tendon forces consistent with those respective positions were applied. To simulate a posterior tibial tendon insufficient state the posterior tibial tendon was not loaded. Strain at the tibiocalcaneal fibers of the superficial deltoid ligament complex was determined at each of the three foot positions. A triple arthrodesis was performed and the deltoid strains were again recorded for each position. A significant increase in the strain of the deltoid ligament was observed for only the heel rise position (p=0.007) in our cadaver model following triple arthrodesis. The results favor medializing the calcaneus following arthrodesis to protect the deltoid complex.

Four new saponins from the root bark of Aralia elata

Four new saponins, 3-O-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl(1-->3)-alpha-L-arabinopyranosyl]-16a lpha-hydroxyoleanolic acid 28-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester (called aralia-saponin I), 3-O-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl(1-->3)-alpha-L-arabinopyranosyl]-16a lpha-hydroxyhederagenin 28-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester (aralia-saponin II), 3-O-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl(1-->3)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl(1-->3)-alpha-L-+ ++arabinopyranosyl]-16alpha-hydroxyoleanolic acid 28-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester (aralia-saponin III), 3-O-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl(1-->3)-beta-D-gucopyranosyl(1-->3)-beta -D-glucucopyranosyl]-16alpha-hydroxyoleanolic acid 28-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester (aralia-saponin IV), were isolated from the root bark of Aralia elata (Miq.) Seem., together with nineteen known compounds including glycosides of (20S)-protopanaxadiol and (20S)-protopanaxatriol. Their structures were determined on the basis of chemical and spectroscopy methods.

A second look at the embryotoxicity of hydrosalpingeal fluid: an in-vitro assessment in a murine model

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether hydrosalpingeal fluid (HSF) is toxic to the mouse embryo as assessed by the blastocyst development rate (BDR) and by cell counting in vitro. HSF was collected from nine patients undergoing salpingoneostomy to correct hydrosalpinx. Two-cell embryos were obtained from superovulated ICR mice. T6 medium and T6 + 0.4% bovine serum albumin (BSA) were used as control media. T6 medium containing 10% or 50% HSF and 100% HSF from each patient were used as test media. Nine to 15 embryos were cultured in microdrops prepared from each of these media. The BDR was examined after 72 h of culture in these media. To assess the total cell number within each blastocyst, the blastocysts were fixed and stained with Hoechst 33342 to facilitate cell counting. The BDR was affected adversely only by 100% HSF and not in media containing 10% or 50% HSF. The mean BDR using T6 medium and T6 + BSA were 88.7% and 85.3%, respectively. The mean BDR using media containing 10% HSF or 50% HSF were 90.0% and 89.4%, respectively. Mean BDR using 100% HSF was 75.2% (P < 0.05). The overall mean cell counts (+/- SEM) using T6 medium and T6 + BSA were 86.9+/-3.2 and 91.0+/-3.8 respectively. Mean cells counts were decreased significantly only in blastocysts cultured in 100% HSF (63.3+/-4.6; P < 0.01) but not in blastocysts cultured in 10% or 50% HSF (90.8+/-4.2 and 81.9+/-6.1 respectively). Thus, it is concluded that HSF has no embryotoxic effect but has a mildly negative effect on embryonic growth and development.

Aspects of musculoskeletal magnetic resonance imaging

MRI can clearly identify many pathological processes in the musculoskeletal system. Because it is a non invasive investigation, it plays an important role in assessing joint pathology and musculoskeletal masses prior to any interventional procedure. If used properly, it can be cost effective and redundant diagnostic tests can be reduced, appropriate therapy can be instituted and unnecessary surgical intervention and hospitalisation can be avoided.

[An immunohistochemical study on megakaryocytes in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes]

An immunohistochemical study was performed on trephine biopsy specimens of bone marrow in 10 patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Monoclonal antibodies HIP7 and CDW41 were used against platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa (CD41) to determine dysmegakaryopoiesis including its size, proportion of micromegakaryocytes, location and staining characteristics. The results show that the dysmegakaryopoiesis of MDS includes the increased number and high proportion of micromegakaryocytes, the altered architectural distribution and the considerable variation in staining. These may be helpful in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of MDS.

[Bone metabolism in postmenopausal women and after estrogen treatment]

Changes of bone metabolism in 11 premenopausal women and 109 postmenopausal women were studied. 50 postmenopausal women were randomly divided into 4 groups: 20, 10 and 6 cases were given nylestriol, diethyl stilbestrol and chlorotrianisen respectively, and 14 cases served as control. It was shown that bone mineral content (BMC), and, blood estrogen level in postmenopausal women were significantly lower than those of premenopausal women. Close correlation existed between E1, E2, and BMC. Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bone GLA protein (BGP), urine Ca/Cr and Hpr/Cr were markedly increased in postmenopausal women and declined after 3 months of treatment with nylestriol, diethylstilbestrol or chlorotrianisen. The radial BMC increased by 0.8% with (P > 0.05) nylestriol treatment for one year and decreased by 1.1% (P < 0.05) in the control cases. The present study indicated that postmenopausal estrogen deficiency accelerated bone loss, which was prevented by small substitution doses of estrogen such as nylestriol.

Cytophotometric assessment of T-2 toxin induced alterations in azure B-RNA and Coomassie-protein in supraoptic-magnocellular neurons of rat hypothalami

Quantitative cytophotometry was used to monitor T-2 toxin-induced alterations in azure B-RNA and Coomassie-total cell protein in supraoptic-magnocellular neurons of rat hypothalami. Thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats (200-220g) were given a single i.p. injection of T-2 toxin (0.5, 0.75, 1.00 and 1.50 x LD50), a trichothecene mycotoxin; rats were decapitated 8 hours post-dosing. After stoichiometric azure B-RNA and Coomassie-protein staining of brain sections, scanning-integrating microdensitometry was used to quantify toxin-induced alterations in these well established indices of neuronal toxicity. Within the magnocellular neurons of the supraoptic nuclei, significant reductions in azure B-RNA reactivity were observed in the 0.75, 1.00 and 1.50 x LD50 groups (i.e. 11%, 13% and 8%, respectively); no differences in RNA levels were observed between controls and the 0.50 x LD50 group. In addition, a decrease in Coomassie-total cell protein was seen in animals receiving 0.50, 0.75 and 1.50 x LD50 T-2 toxin (i.e. 33%, 21% and 12%, respectively); however, toxin administration did not alter protein levels in the 1.00 x LD50 group. Furthermore, a dose-dependent decrease in systolic blood pressure was observed at 8 hr. post-injections (i.e., approximately -39%, -52%, -66% and -64% for the 0.50, 0.75, 1.00 and 1.50 x LD50 groups, respectively). Additional observations include pronounced polydipsia, ascites, abdominal and subdural hemorrhage, and horripilation (piloerection) in experimental groups. It is postulated that the T-2 toxin-induced reductions in azure B-RNA and Coomassie-protein represent an early indication of impaired metabolic activity. Since these neurons are important sites of vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone) synthesis, these data suggest an impaired osmoregulatory ability. The pronounced polydipsia which occurred shortly after intoxication is further evidence of this impairment. Although these findings do not provide insight relating to the mechanism of osmoregulatory disruption, it is advanced that the supraoptic-magnocellular compartment represents an important site in T-2 toxin mycotoxicosis. Moreover, these findings support previous claims that T-2 toxin intoxication may critically impair the vasopressinergic response to toxin-induced cardiovascular collapse.

Examinations of ABO bloodgroupings of human hair

In order to bring into play the function of human hair ABO bloodgrouping in the field of medicolegal expertise on material evidence and raise its accuracy, the author, through a test on human hair of 500, makes some emphatic researches on the disposal of hairs, on the application of anti-A and anti-B serum, on the selection of red blood cell indicator and on the elution temperature as well. Five hundred samples of human hair have been examined upon the basis of the improved operation method and through the application of anti-A and anti-B serum, the titer of which being 1:128, and therein, fine results have been obtained.