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It is necessary to examine the characteristics of hydrological cycle in Gaoyou area of Jiangsu Province in response to climate change and Hood disasters. In this study, 121 atmospheric rain samples were collected and environmental factors were recorded from July 2015 to October 2017. We analyzed the hydrogen and oxygen stable isotopic composition of rain and identify moisture sources in this area. Results showed that the hydrogen and oxygen isotopic composition of rain had an seasonal variation, which was positive in the winter but negative in the summer. D-excess value was higher in winter than that in summer. On the annual scale, significantly negative relationships between δD (δ18) and temperature and between δD (δ18O) and precipitation indicated the " anti-temperature effect" and "precipitation amount effect", respectively. On the seasonal scale, there was no obvious " temperature effect" but " precipitation amount effect" in autumn and winter. Results from the HYSPLIT model showed that the precipitation in this area came mainly from ocean evaporation that was influenced by the Chinese South Sea, Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean. Precipitation in other seasons mainly came from the water vapor mixture from the Eurasian continent, Atlantic Ocean, Arctic Ocean, as well as local evaporation. The seasonal pattern of δD and δ18O values in precipitation was mainly influenced by monsoon activity and El Nino-Southern Oscillation ( ENSO). In addition, the precipitation isotopes clearly indicated the shift in climates from El Nino to La Nina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: To use computer assisted design (CAD) technique to help the diagnosis, treatment planning and the postoperative evaluation of exostosis osteochondroma in mandibular condyle, and to evaluate the outcome of the technique. METHODS: Eight patients with exostosis condylar osteochondroma according to the inclusion criteria was selected. Preoperative design of all the patients was done using Surgicase CMF 5.0 software. Postoperative CT data was merged with the preoperative one, and paired t test was done using SAS 8.0 software package to evaluate the pre- and the post-operative measurements of the condyle. RESULTS: The tumors in 8 patients were removed successfully. The merge of the pre- and the post-operative condylar shape showed a good match with a mean error of (1.82±1.25) mm. CONCLUSIONS: Computer assisted surgical planning of exostosis condylar osteochondroma can help the operator to design a proper osteotomy line before operation, and make a better surgical plan in order to resect the tumor entirely, with preservation of the condyle on the affected side. Supported by Research Fund of Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (08DZ2271100), Program for Innovative Research Team of Shanghai Municipal Education Commission, and Scientific Research Foundation for Returned Overseas Chinese Scholars, Ministry of Education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of using digital occlusal splint in the simultaneous treatment of children temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis with jaw bone deformities. METHODS: Two children with unilateral TMJ ankylosis combined with jaw bone deformities were measured three-dimensionally before surgery by SurgiCase CMF 5.0 software of their CT data. After simulation of bony fusion removal and chin midline correction, digital occlusal splint was made for further costochondral graft which lengthened the affected ramus height. Postoperative CT scan was taken and 3D measurement was made to evaluate the results. RESULTS: Digital occlusal splint was placed smoothly for the two patients. Postoperative CT showed high fitness with presurgical design. CONCLUSION: Digital occlusal splint can save the operation time and improve the accuracy in the simultaneous treatment of children temporomandibular joint ankylosis with jaw bone deformities. It has good prospects for clinical application. Supported by Research Fund of Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (08DZ2271100), Program for Innovative Research Team of Shanghai Municipal Education Commission, Scientific Research Foundation of Ministry of Education for Returned Overseas Scholars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of computer-aided navigation (CAN) technique in the resection margin control of tenosynovial giant cell tumor (TGCT) involving the temporomandibular joint and skull base. METHODS: CAN technique was used to assist the resection of TGCT in TMJ and skull base, as well as immediate reconstruction of the skull base. Postoperative CT scanning was taken to evaluate the effect of the operation. RESULTS: Postoperative CT scanning showed a complete resection of the tumor, with a fine reconstruction of the removed skull base region. Postoperative follow-up of 6 months showed no signs of recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: The application of CAN technique can help to control the surgical margins of lesions in TMJ and skull base region. It can help to mark the tumor boundaries, protect vital structures as well as facilitate the reconstruction process during the surgical procedure. Supported by Research Fund of Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (08DZ2271100), Scientific Research Foundation of Ministry of Education or Returned Overseas Chinese Scholars and Program for Innovative Research Team of Shanghai Municipal Education Commission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: A surgical method for the treatment of traumatic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis with medially displaced residual condyle was described, and the long-term results were compared. METHODS: From 2001 to 2009, 60 patients and 82 joints diagnosed with traumatic TMJ ankylosis with medially displaced residual condyle were included in the present study. Lateral arthroplasty (LAP) was performed, and either the masseter muscle flap (MMF) or temporal fascial fat flap (TFF) were used as interpositional material to fill the lateral space. The long-term results of these treatments were compared by performing postoperative CT and clinical follow-up. SPSS 13.0 software package was used to analyze mouth opening improvement. RESULTS: In total, 22 joints were treated with LAP, 28 joints were treated with LAP and MMF, and 32 joints were treated with LAP and TFF. Thirty-eight patients with 48 joints were followed up for 1 to 4 years. Four of the 11 joints (36.4%) treated with LAP had reankylosis, 3 of the 17 (17.6%) joints treated with LAP and MMF had reankylosis, and 0 of the 20 (0%) joints treated with LAP and TFF had reankylosis. Compared with LAP treatment, LAP with TFF significantly improved the maximal incisal opening (MIO) in long -term follow -up. CONCLUSION: LAP can reserve the residual TMJ structure. TFF is a reliable interpositional material in LAP for prevention of reankylosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: To discuss the application of CAD/CAM technique in the treatment of condylar osteochondroma accompanying with oral-maxillofacial bone deformity. METHODS: Pre-operational planning of a patient with condylar osteochondroma was conducted, maxillary and mandibular bone deformities was performed with CAD technique (Surgicase CMF 5.0 based on CT data), including virtual tumor resection, virtual osteotomy, virtual occlusal plate/osteotomy template designing and post -operative simulation. RP technique was used to make occlusal plates and osteotomy templates. Postoperative CT scan was performed and merged with the operation plans to evaluate the accuracy. RESULTS: Postoperative CT showed the effect of the operation matched with the preoperative planning well. The face of the patient was symmetrical 6 months after operation, there was no sign of recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: The pre -operative application of CAD/CAM technique can improve the accuracy of the tumor resection of the condyle and the correction procedure of facial asymmetry, as well as saving operating time. Supported by Research Fund of Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (08DZ2271100), Research Fund of Biomedicine Engineering of Shanghai Jiao Tong University (YG2009MS42) and Program for Innovative Research Team of Shanghai Municipal Education Commission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: To demonstrate temporomandibular joint (TMJ) changes after acute trauma to the mandible without condylar fracture by radiography and surgical exploration. METHODS: Seven patients with 11 joints who had acute trauma to the mandible without condylar fracture complained of mouth opening limitation from 1 month to 1 year after trauma were treated in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) division of Shanghai Ninth People' s Hospital from 2009 to 2010. Six patients had combined facial fractures which were treated in other hospitals or by other surgeons in this hospital before. CT scans with coronal reconstruction through the condyle immediately after injury and few months later when they came to the TMJ division for treatment were compared. MRI was taken before treatment to check the TMJ changes. Surgical treatment was performed for all patients. RESULTS: CT scan showed 87.5% (7/8) of the joints with "intact" condylar surface bone immediately after injury developed bone destruction 1 month to 1 year later. MRI showed all 11 joints had TMJ disc displaced anteriorly. Ninety percentage (10/11) of the joints also had condylar surface bone destruction. Surgical exploration showed bony ankylosis in 2 joints; fibrous ankylosis with destroyed condyle stuck to the fossa in 3 joints; TMJ osteoarthritis with degenerated condylar surface bone and fibrous adhesion in 5 joints; and internal derangement with relatively normal condylar surface cartilage and disk shape in 1 joint. CONCLUSIONS: Acute trauma [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temporomandibular joint ankylosis (TMJA) is a severe disease which affects the function of oral and maxillofacial system. It leads to mouth opening limitation, facial deformity and OSAHS in the severe cases. Since trauma is the main cause of TMJA, this article reviewed the diagnosis, classification and treatment progress in traumatic TMJA. Supported by Research Fund of Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (08DZ2271100). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: To evaluate the usefulness of computer-assisted surgery (navigation and stereolithographic model guided surgery) and compare the results with traditional surgery on the treatment of delayed orbitozygomatic fracture with enophthalmos. METHODS: Sixty-four patients diagnosed as delayed unilateral orbito-zygomatic fractures with enophthalmos were treated in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Department of Ophthalmology in Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital from October, 2008 to December, 2010. Among them, 25 cases were treated by computer-assisted surgery with the mean enophthalmos of 5.71mm, the other 39 were treated traditionally with the mean enophthalmos of 4.96mm. Materials used for orbital reconstruction were: titanium mesh (n =35); titanium mesh combined with porous polyethylene (Medpor) or hydroxyapatite (HA) (re=12); Medpor (n=12) and HA (n=5). CT scan before and after surgery were acquired with orbital coronal reconstruction and three-dimensional bone reconstruction. Zygomatic reduction and globe projection of different treatment methods were evaluated by post-operative CT scan and clinical follow-up. RESULTS: In computer-assisted surgery, good zygomatic reduction was acquired in 92% of the cases; globe projection was good in 82% of the cases, 17% still had mild enophthalmos (≤3mm). In traditional treated cases, good zygomatic reduction was acquired in 74.3% of the cases; globe projection was good in 74% of the cases, 19% still had mild enophthalmos and 6% had moderate enophthalmos (≤4mm). Good globe projection was acquired in 74% of the cases with titanium mesh only; 83% with combined materials; 67% with Medpor and 20% with HA. CONCLUSION: Computer-assisted surgery can improve the treatment results of delayed orbitozygomatic fracture with enophthalmos. Titanium mesh with Medpor for orbital reconstruction is a good way to treat severe enophthalmos. Supported by the Cooperated Foundation of Medical and Engineering Science of Shanghai Jiao Tong University (40YG2009ZD102), and Pujiang Talent Program of Shanghai Municipality[PJ(2009)00840]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: To evaluate the role of retaining condylar cartilage on open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of intracapsular condylar fracture (ICF) in growing goats by three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) analysis. METHODS: Twelve 6-month-old goats were randomly divided into two groups, experimental group (n=&) and control group (n=4). ICF was created in bilateral mandibular condyles and then treated with ORIF. One side of the condylar cartilage was retained, while the other side of the condylar cartilage was removed. Condyles in the control group were untouched. CT scans were taken immediately after surgery, 3 months and 6 months post-operation to evaluate the growth of the ramus. Heights of the ramus were measured by 3D-CT analysis. SAS 6.12 software package was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Heights of the ramus in cartilage retained group immediately after operation, 3 months and 6 months postoperatively were (42.47±0.99)mm, (51.85±1.67)mm and (56.25±4.49)mm, respectively, while (42.69±0.76)mm, (45.18± 1.31)mm and (46.59±1.66)mm in cartilage removed group, and (42.61±0.99)mm, (51.52±1.95)mm and (56.19±3.38)mm in control group. There were no significant differences between the control group and cartilage retained group (P>0.05). While significant differences were shown between the cartilage retained group and cartilage removed group in both 3 months and 6 months post-operative measurements (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: ORIF for ICF in the growing goats has no effect on condylar growth when the condylar cartilage is retained, but growth restriction occurs when the cartilage is removed. Supported by Research Fund of Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (08DZ2271100). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: This study was to investigate the classification of traumatic temporomandibular joint ankylosis (TMJA) based on coronal CT scan and to present our treatment experience in the TMJ division of Shanghai Ninth People' s Hospital. METHODS: From 2001 to 2009, 130 patients diagnosed of TMJA were treated in TMJ division. Among them, 84 patients with 124 joints were caused by trauma and treated first by our group of surgeons. They were included in this study. All of them had CT scan, especially coronal reconstruction through the TMJ area before and after surgery. A new classification based on the coronal CT scan was proposed. The treatment protocol for Type Al ankylosis was fibrous tissue release or condylar head resection with costochondral graft (CCG) and temporalis myofascial flap (TMF). For Type A2 and A3 ankylosis, the lateral bony fusion was resected while the intact residual condylar fragment displaced medially was remained. The operation was named "lateral arthroplasty" (LAP). TMF or masseter muscle flap (MMF) was used as a barrier in the lateral gap between temporomandibular joint fossa and stump of the mandibular ramus. If the medial condylar fragment in Type A3 ankylosis was too small to bear the load, it was resected with the bony mass. The joint was then reconstructed with CCG and TMF or MMF. For Type A4 ankylosis, the bony fusion was completely removed and the joint was reconstructed with CCG and TMF or MMF. The result of the treatment were evaluated by CT scan and clinical follow-up. RESULTS: Among the 124 ankylotic joints, 14 were Type Al ankylosis (11.3%); 43 were Type A2 (34.7%); 46 were Type A3 (37.1%) and 21 were Type A4 ankylosis (16.9%). Part of Type Al, all Type A2 and A3 ankylosis had residual condylar head displaced medially which accounted for 75% (93/124) of the TMJ ankylosis. Treatment according to the classification was: LAP for 82 joints (66.1%); CCG for 33 joints (26.6%); and other treatment for 9 joints (7.3%). Forty-eighty patients with 68 joints had long time follow-up from 10 months to 4 years. Among them, 4 out of 17 joints reconstructed with CCG had reankylosis (23.5%), 7 out of 48 joints treated with LAP had reankylosis (14.6%). CONCLUSION: The new classification of TMJ ankylosis based on coronal CT scan is useful and valuable in guiding clinical treatment. LAP with TMF is a good way to treat traumatic TMJ ankylosis when the medially displaced condylar head and disc are intact. CCG with TMF has a good result for Type A4 ankylosis. Supported by Research Fund of Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (08DZ2271100). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: To evaluate the results of two different treatment methods in intracapsular condyle fracture (ICE) of the mandible by coronal CT. METHODS: One hundred and eighty-three ICF cases with 242 condyles treated in the division of TMJ in Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital from 2002 to 2008 were evaluated by coronal CT before and after non-surgical and surgical treatment. RESULTS: There were ninety-four cases with 127 condyles in the non-surgical treatment group. Forty-eight cases with 64 condyles had more than 3 months CT follow-up. Among them, 41 cases with 52 condyles healed or remodeled, which accounted for 81.2%; seven cases with 12 condyles developed TMJ ankylosis, which accounted for 9.4% in the non-surgical treatment group. There were eighty-nine cases with 115 condyles in the surgical treatment group. Post-operative CT showed anatomic reduction in 81.7% of the condyles, near anatomic reduction in 13.9% and not anatomic reduction in 4.3% of the condyles. Thirty-five cases had more than 3 months CT follow ups. Among them, 32 cases with 44 condyles showed good healing, which accounted for 91.7%. Two cases with 3 condyles had the plates located too high, which accounted for 6.2%. One case with 1 condyle had plate removed because of resorption, which accounted for 2.1%. CONCLUSIONS: Coronal CT has a very important role in the diagnosis and treatment evaluation of ICF. With non-surgical treatment, most of the condyles healed with deformity or remodeling, few developed TMJ ankylosis. By surgical treatment, the condyles can be reduced anatomically, which is good for the restoration of TMJ functional activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: The study aims to evaluate the value of panoramic films in diagnosis of condylar fractures. METHODS: Panoramic films of 163 cases (220 joints) diagnosed as condylar fractures by CT were examined. Panoramic films of all types of condylar fractures classified by CT were analyzed. According to the position of fracture, the samples were divided into two groups, intracapsular fractures and extracapsular fractures(condylar neck fractures and subcondylar fractures). The detection of fractures in two groups were compared and statistically analyzed with SAS6.12 software package. RESULTS: All 163 condylar fractures (220 joints) could be classified by CT as intracapsular fractures (155 joints), neck fractures (45 joints) and subcondylar fractures (20 joints). Panoramic films showed 38 joints without fractures and 182 joints with fractures. Among them, 33 joints without fractures and 122 joints with fractures were in the group of intracapsular fractures. The detection rate of intracapsular fractures group was significantly lower than that of condylar neck fractures and subcondylar fractures group (P=0.0149). CONCLUSION: Panoramic films can initially diagnose condylar fractures, but the misdiagnosis rate is high for intracapsular fractures, particularly for minor fractures and fractures without fragment displacement. CT should be considered for positioning of fracture lines and confirming the displacement angle of fragment on coronal plane. Supported by Research Fund of Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (Grant No.08DZ2271100). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chuanxiong Rhizoma is a well-known Sichuan-specific herbal medicine. Its original plant, Ligusticum chuanxiong, has been cultivated asexually for a long time. L. chuanxiong has sexual reproductive disorders, which restricts its germplasm innovation. However, there is little research on the reproductive system of L. chuanxiong. This study is based on a comparative anatomical research approach, using morphological dissection, paraffin sectioning, staining and compression, and combined with scanning electron microscopy technology, to observe and compare the flowers, fruits, and seeds at various stages of reproductive growth of L. chuanxiong and its wild relative L. sinense. The results showed that the meiosis of pollen mother cells is abnormal in L. chuanxiong anthers, and the size and number of microspores are uneven and inconsistent in the tetrad stage. tapetum cells are not completely degenerated during anther development. During the pollen ripening stage, there are fine cracks in the anther wall, while most anthers could not release pollen normally. The surface of mature pollen grains is concave and partially deformed, and the pollens are all inactive and cannot germinate in vitro. The starch, polysaccharides, and lipids in the pollen were insufficient. The filaments of L. chuanxiong are short at the flowering stage and recurved downward. Double-hanging fruits were observed in the fruiting stage, being wrinkled; with shriveled seeds. Compared with L. sinense at the same stage, the anthers of L. sinense developed normally, and the pollen grains are vigorous and can germinate in vitro. The double-hanging fruits of L. sinense are full and normal; at the flowering period, the filaments are long and erect, significantly higher than the stigma. Mature blastocysts are visible in the ovary of both L. chuanxiong and L. sinense, and there is no significant difference in stigmas. The conclusion is that during the development of L. chuanxiong stamens, the meiosis of pollen mother cells is abnormal, and tetrad, tapetum, filament and other pollen structures develop abnormally. L. chuanxiong has the characteristic of male infertility, which is an important reason for its sexual reproductive disorders.

The study is aimed to reveal the fluctuation of the inorganic elements in the rhizosphere soil of Ligusticum chuanxiong during their whole growth period, and explore the relationship between that fluctuation and the formation of radial striations character in the rhizomes. During the cultivation period of L. chuanxiong, the rhizosphere soil samples were taken regularly, and the content of 26 inorganic elements were determined by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry(XRF). Then the difference between the radial striations and un-radial striations rhizomes were analyzed for their fluctuation of the inorganic elements. The results showed that there were different &quot;key period&quot; and &quot;key elements&quot; in the rhizosphere elements content of L. chuanxiong rhizome with radial and un-radial striations, and different element coordination and antagonistic relationship. The key fluctuation period of rhizosphere elements in un-radial striations group were in 0-60 and 60-150 days, of which 22 elements such as Na, Mg, Al were the key elements in 0-60 days, and 5 elements such as Sr, Hf, Pb, Co, Ce were the key elements in 60-150 days. The key fluctuation period of rhizosphere elements in radial striations group were in 0-60 and 210-270 days, of which four elements such as Na, Co, Ce, As are the key change elements in 0-60 days, and 18 elements such as Mg, Al, Si are the key change elements in 210-270 days. At the same time, the study showed that the fluctuation of inorganic elements in rhizosphere soil coincided with the growth and development process of L. chuanxiong and the key period of the formation of &quot;radial striations rhizome&quot;. The key stage which the rapid growth of lateral buds of rhizome affected the formation of radial striations is 60-150 days after planting, while the increase of Sr and Co elements is likely to be an important reason for the expansion of lateral buds of rhizome and the failure to form typical &quot;radial striations rhizome&quot; in un-radial striations group.

Microecology was directly or indirectly involved in the growth and development, metabolism process, and component accumulation of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) in various ways, which affected the formation and changes of the geoherbalism of TCM. It was one of the main tasks of traditional Chinese medical microecology(TCMM) to reveal the relationship among microecological structure and its change rule and the quality effect of TCM. The heterogeneity of soil environment caused by geographical and climatic factors, as well as the discreteness limitation caused by isolation factors such as distance and host selection, were the main causes of the differentiation of microecological geography of TCM. The microecology of TCM had important influences and contributions on the distinctive origin and quality of Dao-di herbs, which was mainly reflected in the formation of excellent germplasm(including disease and insect resistance, drought resistance, salt resistance, cold resistance, etc.), the increase of yield, the formation of medicinal parts, the metabolism and accumulation of effective components, the time limit of harvesting, and the toxicity, increasing efficiency or reducing toxicity of TCM in the processing, the changes of product efficiency after introduction, and the authenticity of fungus medicine. With the vigorous development of metabonomics and modern information technology, the following aspects would become the future research trends, including the microecologically mediated biogenic pathway of chemical components, the metabolic synthesis reactor of TCM based on the microecological quantitative effect relationship, the cultivation of genuine Chinese medicine based on reconstruction of microecological structure, the origin identification barcode traceability technology, and the toxicity reduction and efficiency enhancement technology of TCM based on the microecological.

In the long-term evolution, microbes and hosts coexist widely, forming a symbiotic microecosystem and resulting the complex interactions of the metabolism. With the application of microecological theory in Chinese materia medica science, two main points have been accepted gradually. On the one hand, the prevention and treatment of human diseases by traditional Chinese medicines can be achieved through the correction and adjustment of the imbalance of the human microecosystem. On the other hand, the microecosystem can regulate the quality of traditional Chinese medicines in real time, and further affect their curative effect. Thus, a new discipline, Traditional Chinese Medical Microecology, has been gradually established. In this review, the background, theoretical structure, research directions, key problems and the relationship with human microecology of Traditional Chinese Medical Microecology were systematically summarized and prospected for promoting its development. Moreover, this review provides a reference protocol for further discoursing the microecological mechanism involving the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicines., Competing Interests: The authors of this article and the planning committee members and staff have no relevant financial relationships with commercial interests to disclose., (Copyright© by the Chinese Pharmaceutical Association.)

Objective: To get an understanding of the microflora of endophytic actinomycetes in Ligusticum chuanxiong,and to obtain the resource of antagonistic strains against Ligusticum chuanxiong root rot disease., Methods: Actinomycetes in stem nodes and rhizomes of Ligusticum chuanxiong were isolated and purified by a series of means,namely tissue block method, homogenate technique and plat streaking method. Further, dual culture and inhibition zone method were employed to test the antagonistic activity of these strains. To identify strains with potential precisely,both microscopic observation and DNA sequencing were conducted., Results: 83 strains of Ligusticum chuanxiong endophytic actinomycetes were identified, which consisted of 13 species groups. Among all of them,species identified as Streptomyces scopuliridis( KF600747. 1), Streptomyces griseorubiginosus( AB706352. 1) and Streptomyces agglomeratus( LC055413. 1) showed antagonistic activities against four kinds of pathogenic fungi of Ligusticum chuanxiong root rot disease., Conclusion: Actinomycetes which belong to Griseorubroviolaceus groups of streptomyce are potential biocontrol microbes to Ligusticum chuanxiong root rot,showing importance to the production of Chuanxiong Rhizoma.

Objective: To identify the pathogens causing root rot disease on Ligusticum chuanxiong from the main producing areas in Sichuan, and to provide gist of management of this disease in the future., Methods: The diseased rhizomes of Ligusticurn chuanxiong with root rot symptom were sampled in two main producing areas in Sichuan. According to Koch's postulate, the pathogenicity on Ligusticum chuanxiong rhizomes of the isolates was confirmed. The representative isolates were identified based on their morphological characteristics and ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer(rDNA-ITS) sequences., Results: The isolates(f2-16, 3-2, f4-19 and f5-7)which caused root rot disease held high homology reached 99%, 99%, 100% and 100% respectively, when compared with GenBank sequences GQ229075, JQ796755, JN232136 and FJ481024., Conclusion: The causing agents of root rot disease on Ligusticum chuanxiong belong to Fusarium solani, Fusarium oxysporum, Plectosphaerella cucumerina and Phoma glomerata. Pathogens from different regions are varied.

Objective: To explore the functions of tumor susceptibility gene 101 (TSG101) in the invasion and metastasis of gastric cancer cells by cell culture., Methods: The TSG101 eukaryotic expression and empty plasmids were transfected into gastric cancer cell line SGC7901. After screening with G418, single cell clone was selected and cultured. The expression of TSG101 was detected by reverse transcription (RT)-PCR and Western blotting. Cells were divided into TSG101 eukaryotic expression plasmid and blank control groups. Then the relationship was examined between TSG101 expression and tumor invasion and metastasis through the invasion, mobile, adhesion and damage scar experiment., Results: The expression levels of TSG101 in mRNA and protein in the TSG101 eukaryotic expression group were significantly higher than those of the plasmid and blank control groups (0.85 ± 0.09 vs 0.55 ± 0.07, 0.45 ± 0.07 and 29.4 ± 1.2 vs 17.0 ± 0.4, 15.9 ± 0.4, all P < 0.05). The cell number of TSG101 eukaryotic expression group through Matrigel, laminin, type IV collagen protein (84 ± 14, 128 ± 10, 62 ± 7) were significantly higher than those of the plasmid group (55 ± 9, 77 ± 10, 31 ± 6) and blank control group (48 ± 8, 76 ± 9, 24 ± 5, all P < 0.01). The number of cells adherent to Matrigel, laminin, type IV collagen protein of the TSG101 eukaryotic expression group (0.97 ± 0.04, 1.34 ± 0.04, 0.90 ± 0.01) were obviously higher than those of the plasmid group (0.53 ± 0.03, 0.75 ± 0.05, 0.42 ± 0.02) and blank control group (0.60 ± 0.03, 0.72 ± 0.03, 0.40 ± 0.01, all P < 0.01). The number of TSG101 eukaryotic expression group cell migrating to membrane lower surface was obviously higher than that of the plasmid group and blank control group (87 ± 13 vs 54 ± 8, 48 ± 7, all P < 0.01). The fusion speed of the TSG101 eukaryotic expression group was faster than that of plasmid and blank control groups after cultivating for 24 and 48 h., Conclusions: TSG101 expression increases significantly in SGC-7901 cells after a stable transfection of TSG101 eukaryotic expression plasmids. Also the capacities of invasion and metastasis become markedly enhanced.

Objective: In order to better understand the nature of Salmonella infection in diarrheal patients in Guangdong province, the study analyzed the serum types, antibiotic resistance and molecular determinants of the isolated Salmonella strains., Methods: In year 2010, 8405 diarrhea patients from 16 surveillant hospital in Guangzhou, Zhongshan, Dongguan, Zhuhai, Maoming, Yangjiang and Jiangmen cities in Guangdong province, were recruited in the study. A total of 8405 fecal specimen were collected and subjected to Salmonella isolation and culture. The isolated Salmonella strains were further analyzed via serotyping, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and PFGE. The χ(2) test was applied to compare the differences between the isolated Salmonella strains in different seasons and districts. BioNumerics software was used to analyze the PFGE results in order to determine the correlation between different Salmonella strains., Results: The positive rate of the surveillant Salmonella in Guangdong province was 3.58% (301/8405) in 2010; with the gender ratio at 1.34:1 (166/124). Salmonella infection was found in all age groups, and most in infants, accounting for 57.48% (173/301). The isolated rates of Salmonella were separately 3.48% (61/1751), 4.97% (134/2695), 3.08% (73/2370) and 2.08% (33/1589) in the four seasons; and the difference was statistically significant (χ(2) = 27.29, P < 0.01). The isolated rates of Salmonella in different regions were as follows: Zhuhai 15.43% (25/162), Maoming 7.53% (18/239), Dongguan 6.51% (39/599), Yangjiang 3.64% (14/385), Zhongshan 3.03% (70/2309), Guangzhou 2.90% (126/4349) and Jiangmen 2.49% (9/362). The difference between regions was statistically significant (χ(2) = 100.75, P < 0.01). Except one strain of the isolated Salmonella cannot be serotyped, the other 300 strains were divided into 42 serotypes, of which Salmonella typhimurium and Salmonella enteritidis were dominant, account for 45.18% (136/301) and 10.96% (33/301) respectively. Although over 85% of Salmonella were sensitive to cephalosporin, ACSSuT resistance patterns (defined as resistance to at least ampicillin, chloramphenicol, streptomycin, sulfamethoxazole and tetracycline) reached 34.88% (105/301), the highest resistant rate was found in serotype Salmonella typhimurium, as high as 65.44% (89/136). 136 strains of Salmonella typhimurium were divided into 51 PFGE types, showed great genetic diversity. 33 strains of Salmonella enteritidis were divided into 18 PFGE types. The strains with same PFGE pattern may have different drug-resistant patterns, and vice versa., Conclusion: Salmonella typhimurium and Salmonella enteritidis were the dominant serotypes causing infectious diarrhea in Guangdong province. Cephalosporin was the primary choice in clinical medicine. However, Salmonella typhimurium was resistant to drug most seriously in Guangdong province. There was no significant correlation between Salmonella resistance patterns and PFGE type.

Objective: To understand the distribution, molecular characteristics and virulence genes of the O1 and O139 Vibrio cholerae isolates from the Pearl River Estuary water., Methods: Vibrio cholerae isolates collected from the Pearl River estuary waters from January 2009 to December 2010, were tested by PCR for eight virulence-related genes, including cholera toxin (ctxA), zonula occludens toxin (zot), accessory cholera enterotoxin (ace), hemolysin (hlyA), toxin-coregulated pilus (tcpA), outer membrane protein (ompU), and the regulatory protein genes (tcpI, toxR). Genetic relation was assessed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and the patterns were clustered by BioNumerics., Results: From 1152 aquatic samples, 69 isolates were identified, including 41 Inaba, 18 Ogawa and 10 O139. All the isolates showed ctxA negative, while the hlyA and toxR genes were positive in all the isolates. 34.15% (14/41) of the Inaba strains were hlyA(+) toxR(+) ompU(+) ace(+) zot(+) tcpI(+), while 66.67% (12/18) belonged to Ogawa strains and 70% (7/10) of the O139 strains were hlyA(+) toxR(+). Through PFGE analysis, the O1 isolates formed three clusters in this study. The patterns of O1 isolates differed widely, with the similarity as 72.8% - 100.0%, while the patterns of O139 isolates having the similarity of 69.9% - 95.5%., Conclusion: The non-toxigenic O1 and O139 V. cholerae had a wide distribution in the environment of Pearl River estuary water during the non-epidemic period of cholera. All the aquatic isolates presented diversities on the related virulent genes.

Objective: To study the serotypes, virulence features and molecular characteristics of Vibrio parahaemolyticus isolated in food poisoning cases and surveillance program on diarrhea patients in Guangdong, 2009., Methods: 95 Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains from food poisoning cases and 15 strains from surveillance program on diarrhea patients were serotyped and detected for tdh (thermostable direct hemolysin, tdh) and trh (tdh-related hemolysin gene, trh) by PCR. 81 sero-variant Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains were selected through PFGE subtyping., Results: There were 15 Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains isolated from surveillance program on diarrhea patients and 95 strains were isolated from 11 Vibrio parahaemolyticus-caused food poisoning cases in 2009. Among these strains, O3:K6 (46.67% and 44.21%) and O4:K8 (33.33% and 28.42%) were the dominant serotypes, but not the 7 food-borne strains. There were 93 (84.54%) tdh(+)trh(-), 13 (11.81%) tdh(-)trh(-), and 3 (3.65%) tdh(+)trh(+) strains. The similarity value was between 57.7% to 100.0% of the 81 strains after PFGE sub-typing method and 36 PFGE subtypes were identified. PFGE001 and PFGE029 appeared to be the dominant subtypes., Conclusion: O3:K6 and O4:K8 were the most dominant serotypes in Vibrio parahaemolyticus-caused diarrhea and food poisoning cases in Guangdong and tdh were detected in most of the strains. Dominant PFGE subtypes were causing both sporadic and outbreak cases in different areas in Guangdong province.

Objective: To understand the phenotypic characteristics of foodborne Vibrio parahaemolyticus in Guangdong province through carrying out a comprehensive comparison including pulse field gel electrophoresis, ribotyping and serotyping., Methods: 74 different Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains isolated from seafood and cases due to food poisoning in Guangdong province were under serotyping and susceptibility testing, in addition to the testing of direct heat hemolysin (tdh) and the heat hemolysin-related hemolysin hormone (trh) via PCR. Ribosomal genotyping (ribotyping) with EcoR I restriction enzyme was utilized on 74 different Vibrio parahaemolyticus isolates, whereas pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) with the Not I restriction enzyme was used on 74 different Vibrio parahaemolyticus isolates. BioNumerics software was used to compare the isolates from different sources, times and places in order to elicit the correlation between different strains., Results: Although Vibrio parahaemolyticus was 100.00% sensitive to chloramphenicol, it still presented different levels of resistance against 13 other antibiotics. Among the 74 different strains of Vibrio parahaemolyticus under testing, 24.32% showed positive for the tdh virulence gene, whereas 4.05% positive for trh. 74 different Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains were found to belong to 26 serotypes, where the O5:K17 and O2:K28 serotypes were dominant in those isolates that causing seafood-poisoning. The O3:K6 serotype was found to be the dominant of those isolates that causing food-poisoning. Based on ribosomal genotyping, the 74 Vibrio parahaemolyticus isolates were divided into 62 different ribotypes, whereas the 74 strains of Vibrio parahaemolyticus were divided into 67 different PFGE types, thus exhibiting considerable genetic diversities of the strains., Conclusion: Majority of the isolates causing food-poisoning carried tdh virulence gene. PFGE was shown to have the highest resolution, followed by ribotyping with serotyping being the lowest, where the combination of the three could improve the resolution.

Objective: To understand the genetic polymorphism of Salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus in Guangdong province, as well as to explore methods for identifying and tracing the source of these two foodborne pathogens., Methods: Using the automated ribotyping system, two foodborne pathogens were tested with either EcoR I or Pvu II restriction enzymes. BioNumerics software was then applied for image analysis, database establishment and other corresponding analysis., Results: Digestion of 32 Salmonella isolates with Pvu II yielded 19 different ribotypes, and digestion of 14 Salmonella isolates with EcoR I yielded 2 different ribotypes. Staphylococcus aureus isolates showed greater genetic diversity, whereas EcoR I digestion of 49 different isolates yielded 31 different ribotypes., Conclusion: Unique Salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus isolates could be identified through ribotyping. Although Salmonella serotyping and ribotyping were not strongly correlated, the combination of both restriction enzymes could be used to more effectively identify the genetic relationship among different strains as well as the source of food poisoning. Thus, not only could the genetic relationships amongst the different strains be inferred through ribotyping skills, the source of food poisoning and mode of transmission could also be determined under the use of this method.

Objective: To understand the infection of Salmonella (S.) in patients with diarrhea and outbreaks caused by Salmonella to identify the serotypes, resistance to antibiotics and PFGE types of the strains from the surveillance program in Guangdong province., Methods: S. strains from patients with diarrhea were detected, and all the positive strains collected in routine and outbreak surveillance programs, were tested by serum agglutination, antibiotic susceptibility and PFGE., Results: 71 S. strains were isolated from 1922 stool samples in 2008, with positive rate as 3.7%. 85 S. strains were isolated from 2110 stool samples in 2009, with positive rate as 4.0%. All the 156 strains were divided into 37 serotypes, with S. serotype typhimurium and enteritidis as the most common serotypes. 10 incidents of food poisoning were detected, of which 4 were caused by enteritidis and 3 by typhimurium. A suspected outbreak by enteritidis was discovered and under epidemiological investigation. The findings indicated that 2 of the 4 patients from this outbreak were infected with identical enteritidis isolates. 80% of the 229 isolates were found susceptible to cephalosporins and quinolone and 59.3% of them were multiresistant to the antibiotics., Conclusion: S. enteritidis and S. typhimurium were the most common serotypes that caused infectious diarrhoea and food poisoning in Guangdong province.

Objective: To prepare a DNA Microarray that can detect 8 common species of food borne bacterial pathogens in south China., Methods: All the 70mer oligo probes were designed on the characteristic genome loci of the 8 species of food borne bacterial pathogens. Eight subarrays corresponding to the 8 food borne bacterial pathogens were spotted onto the slide and integrated into a pan-array on the chip. A number of identified and known bacterial samples from the storage bank were selected for the validation test., Results: Based on the PPR ranking, for LM sub-array, the PPR of the 3 Listeria bacteria LM, Lin and Liv was 68.8%, 51.8% and 59.6%, respectively, while that of the non-Listeria bacterial samples was all below 43%. For VC sub-array, the PPR of VC sample was 54.1% and that of the non-VC bacterial samples was lower than 17.2%. For VP sub-array, the PPR was 66.7% for VP sample and below 24.2% for non-VP bacterial samples. For Sal sub-array, the PPR was 55.9% for Sal sample and below 50.5% for non-Sal bacterial samples. For Shi sub-array, the PPR of Shi sample and the non-Shi bacterial samples was 53.8% and below 36.6%, respectively. For SA sub-array, the PPR of SA sample and non-SA bacterial samples was 65.2% and below 22.7%, respectively. For CJ sub-array, the PPR of the 2 Campylobacter bacteria CJ and CC were 88.2% and 58.8%, respectively, and that of the non-Campylobacter bacterial samples was lower than 35.3%. For EC sub-array, the PPR of EC sample was 47.9%, and that of the non-EC bacterial samples was lower than 41.6%. Evaluation of the Biosafood-8 chip developed in this study by 18 biological samples from different origins demonstrated its good specificity and accuracy in the identification of the pathogens., Conclusion: The chip we developed can clearly differentiate the target food borne pathogenic bacteria and non-target bacteria and allows specific and accurate identification of the species of the tested bacteria isolates.

Objective: To establish molecular typing of Listeria monocytogenes isolates by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) for studying the epidemiologic characteristics of Listeria monocytogenes isolated from foodstuff in Guangdong province and to build up PFGE typing database of Listeria monocytogenes isolates for identifying the infectious resource of the outbreaks and other epidemiologic investigation., Methods: "Standardized Protocol for Molecular Subtyping of Listeria monocytogenes by PFGE" was followed. BioNumerics software was applied on image analysis, database establishment, comparative and corresponding analysis., Results: 107 Listeria monocytogenes isolates were typed by PFGE, 41 PFGE types were observed among the isolates. The PFGE types were dispersive among these isolates. Listeria monocytogenes isolates were most frequently isolated in raw chicken while the most PFGE types were found in this type of food. The positive rate was relatively high in cold and iced foods. Only 1-2 DNA fragment difference occurred in 26 Listeria monocytogenes isolates by PFGE, so high degree of relatedness remained among these isolates. There were unique PFGE patterns in the regions of Shaoguan and Huizhou. From time to time, a number of isolates remained close relationship., Conclusion: PFGE typing of the 107 Guangdong Listeria monocytogenes isolates demonstrated relative genetic diversity but a number of the isolates showed close relatedness.

Objective: To investigate the patterns of condylar fractures associated with temporomandibular joint ankylosis (TMJA) and treatment methods and results based on the different types of ankylosis., Methods: Forty-two joints of ankylosis in 31 patients with were categorized to four groups according to Sawhney's classification and undergone surgical treatment as follows: a joint release and disc reposition for Type I ankylosis, a dissection of bony block and disc reposition for Type II; a dissection of full-joint and employment of the temporal myofascial flap as interposition for Type III; a radically dissection of full joint followed by ramus distraction osteogenesis and genioplasty for Type IV. All of patients were followed up for 9 to 54 months with an average of 30 months. The range of mouth opening and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function were assessed. Condylar fractures were retrospectively investigated on the patterns and the course of ankylosis development. Macroscopical visualization on the osseously ankylosed sites and disc displacement were analyzed in comparison with the radiological findings., Results: Condylar sagittal and comminuted fractures were most susceptible to TMJA. Early fibrous ankylosis occurred usually at the 4th or 5th month post-traumatically with an average month opening of 18.3 mm. The articular discs were found displaced in all cases and early bony bridge formed at a limited area where there was no disc as cushion. During fellow-up, considerable improvement in mandibular movement was attained with a stable joint function and mouth opening range of over 30 mm except for two cases in which ankylosis relapsed., Conclusions: Condylar sagittal and comminuted fractures are most likely to cause ankylosis. Early surgical intervention could reduce the disc and avoid the later ankylosis.

Aim: To study the mechanism of butylated hydroxyanisole-induced neural differentiation of fetal liver cells in vitro., Methods: 14.5-day-old mouse fetal liver-derived cells were cultured, and were induced by 200 micromol/L butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) combined with PI3K inhibitor LY294002 (20 micromol/L), and then were incubated in serum-free medium. Expression of genes in treated or untreated cells were assayed by Western blotting or RT-PCR., Results: There was low level of neurofilament-L (NF-L) and brain factor-1 (BF-1) but no neurofilament-H (NF-H) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in fetal liver cells. BHA promoted significantly expression of neuron-specific NF-L, NF-H, BF-1, and TH in fetal liver cells. NF-L mRNA increased 5.8 fold, NF-H mRNA 8.0 fold, BF-1 mRNA 2.68 fold, and TH mRNA 30 fold, respectively (all P < 0.01 vs untreated cells). NF-L protein increased 11.29 fold, NF-H 5.5 fold, BF-1 2.53 fold, TH 4.76 fold. Moreover, expression of these BHA-induced genes were inhibited by PI3K inhibitor LY294002., Conclusion: BHA induced neural differentiation of fetal liver cells through PI3K.

Background & Objective: Antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (ASODN) targeting bcl-2 have in vitro and in vivo antitumor activities. We have identified a novel antisense sequence in the coding region of bcl-2 mRNA that could enhance chemosensitivity and radiosensitivity of leukemia cells and lung carcinoma cells. This study was designed to investigate inhibitory effects of bcl-2 ASODN on development and growth ability of human lung carcinoma NCI-H460 cells xenograft in nude mice., Methods: bcl-2 ASODN was added to NCI-H460 cells. Inhibitory rate of cell growth was assayed by MTT assay. bcl-2 ASODN-treated NCI-H460 cells were implanted subcutaneously into nude mice to observe tumor growth and calculate tumor inhibitory rate. Seven days after subcutaneous implantation of untreated NCI-H460 cells, the tumor-bearing mice were randomized into 3 groups: control group, ASODN group, and nonsense oligodeoxynucleotides (NSODN) group. bcl-2 ASODN, bcl-2 NSODN, and saline were separately injected into the tumor bodies of mice in relevant groups for 3 week. The tumor weight and volume were measured, and the morphology of tumor cells was observed under microscope., Results: bcl-2 ASODN reduced the growth of NCI-H460 cells in a time-dependent manner. Inhibitory rate of NCI-H460 cells was significantly higher in bcl-2 ASODN group than in bcl-2 NSODN group (P<0.05). The tumorigenic ability of NCI-H460 cells was reduced by bcl-2 ASODN, with the maximum tumor growth inhibitory rate of 87.5% (P<0.01). The tumor formation time was prolonged to 12.6 days. Tumor growth was significantly inhibited in bcl-2 ASODN group as compared with that in NSODN group and control group(P<0.01). The tumor weight was significantly lighter in bcl-2 ASODN group than in bcl-2 NSODN group and control group (P<0.01). The growth inhibitory rate was 71.0% in bcl-2 ASODN group. Serious necrosis foci and inflammatory cell infiltration were observed in tumor tissues of bcl-2 ASODN group, while cancer cells were diffused in tumor tissues of bcl-2 NSODN group and control group., Conclusion: bcl-2 ASODN can suppress tumorigenic ability of NCI-H460 cells and inhibit tumor growth in nude mice.

Objective: To explore the clinical characteristics of naso-orbital-ethmoid (NOE) fracture, principles and surgical methods., Methods: Twenty-nine patients with NOE fractures were investigated. Operations for the treatment of NOE and subsequent deformities included reduction of central fragment, reconstruction of orbit walls, reattachment of medial canthal ligament and so on. The outcome of the treatment was evaluated., Results: Three cases were infected postoperatively. Of the 14 cases performed on reconstruction of orbit wall, 9 cases got complete correction for their dystopia/enophthalmos, 5 cases improved. Thirteen cases experiencing canthopexy obtained accepted outcome., Conclusions: The satisfactory correction of NOE fracture and subsequent enophthalmos/dystopia and telecanthus can be achieved with elective surgery in most cases.

Objective: To observe the management results of hemangioma in infants and children., Methods: Forty-nine cases of hemangioma in infants and children managed from 1986 to 2004 were reviewed. During the management period, the incidence and first visit age and sex were recorded. The location and volume of the lesions were photographed and followed up at an interval of 3 to 12 months until the complete involution of the tumor. The treatment modalities used included local injection of prednisone in 16 cases, surgery in 6 cases, and the remaining 33 cases were observed without treatment., Results: Thirty-three cases receiving no treatment involuted naturally. The complete involution age was found from 9 months to 10 years with average age of 5.4 years. The cosmetic results after involution were good., Conclusions: Most hemangiomas do not need treatment and can involute naturally. However, in cases with severe complications such as expansion, destruction and obstructive or congestive heart failure, treatment is indicated.

Objectives: The value of supraomohyoid neck dissection used in treating oral squamous cell carcinoma was discussed., Methods: Twenty-seven cN0 patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma were entered into the study. Supraomohyoid neck dissection was performed to remove the lymphatic tissue of level I, II, and III. The operation duration and shoulder function were recorded., Results: The average operation duration was (1.6 +/- 0.2) h. Nineteen percent (5/27) of the cN0 neck were proved positive pathologically which included two cases in level I and four in level II (one case had both level I and II metastases). Shoulder function recovered in three months after operation. All patients were followed up from two years to four years and none of them had local or neck recurrence., Conclusions: Supraomohyoid neck dissection is a right choice for cN0 patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma with its advantages in both curing neck lymphatic metastases and preserving neck and shoulder contours and functions.

Objective: To investigate a new classification and treatment of zygomatic complex fractures (ZCF) by clinical and radiographic studies., Methods: Standard radiographs with Waters, submental vertex views had been obtained before and after operation in 206 patients (212 sides) with ZCF. Patients with complicated fractures underwent two and three dimensional CT. Computer-assisted measuring system was used to measure the degree of displacement., Results: ZCF were classified into 3 types and 6 subtypes according to the degree of displacement of segments and facial deformities. Treatment principles were proposed. The results were satisfied through clinical application and measurement of post-operative images., Conclusions: The treatment for ZCF should be selected according to the fracture types. The key of operation is to recover the malar prominence. Remodeling the length and radian of zygomatic arch guarantee the recovery of malar prominence. Zygomatic-sphenoid and zygomatic-maxillary fissures are very important reference marks for reduction and fixation.

Background & Objective: The previous study has identified two novel antisense oligonucleotides (AS-ODN) of new target point in the translation initiation and the coding region of bcl-2 mRNA that could increase the sensitivity of HL-60 and K562 cells lines to etoposide, daunorubicin, and araninosyl cytosine (Ara-C). This study was designed to investigate whether the two novel bcl-2 AS-ODNs could increase Ara-C-induced apoptosis of cultured primary acute leukemia (AL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) Cells., Methods: Cell surviving fraction was determined using the trypan blue dye exclusion assay. The expression levels of bcl-2 protein were assayed by immunofluorescence using fluorescein isothiocyanate label. Apoptosis was detected by Giemsa staining and flow cytometry., Results: Treatment with the two AS-ODNs/Ara-C combination respectively for 48 h significantly inhibited the growth of AL and CLL cells. There was significant difference on AL and CLL cells survival between nonsense oligodeoxynucleotide(NS-ODN)/Ara-C combination and Ara-C treated cells alone (P < 0.05). It was found that the two AS-ODNs respectively combined with Ara-C could significantly downregulate bcl-2 protein expression (P < 0.05). There was a significant increase in apoptotic rates of AL or CLL cells after treatment with the two AS-ODNs respectively combined with Ara-C as respectively compared with the NS-ODN/Ara-C combination and Ara-C treated cells alone; and the effect had statistical difference (P < 0.05). Compared to the AS-ODN directed against the translation initiation of bcl-2 mRNA, the AS-ODN directed against the coding region showed stronger effect in the aspects of increasing the sensitivity of AL cells to Ara-C (P < 0.05)., Conclusions: The two novel AS-ODNs of new target point in the translation initiation and the coding region of bcl-2 mRNA could enhance Ara-C induced apoptosis of AL and CLL cells.

Background & Objective: Human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) is a limiting component for telomerase activity. Telomerase inhibitor targeting telomerase RNA could arrest growth of tumor cells. This study was designed to explore the effect of hTERT gene antisense phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotide (ASODN) on telomerase activity in HL-60 cells., Methods: Telomeric repeat amplification protocol was used to determine telomerase activity. The expression levels of hTERT mRNA and protein were assayed by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunofluorescence using fluorescence isothiocyanate label respectively., Results: RT-PCR and immunofluorescence assay showed that the expression levels of hTERT mRNA and protein from HL-60 cells decreased with time after hTERT ASODN treatment. There was no difference in hTERT mRNA and protein levels between control and SODN-treated cells. Telomerase activity decreased when HL-60 cells were treated with ASODN for 48 h. Telomerase activity of HL-60 cells was significantly inhibited when treated with ASODN for 72h. There was no difference in telomerase activity levels between control and hTERT SODN-treated cells., Conclusion: Telomerase activity could be down-regulated by hTERT ASODN in HL-60 cells.