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To evaluate methods of reduction using fragments of the greater tuberosity, and determine the clinical efficacy of humeral head replacement prosthesis height for proximal humerus fractures.A retrospective study of patients with proximal humerus fractures who were treated and followed up from January 2015 to December 2019, 19 patients met the indications for humeral head replacement, including 7 males and 12 females;8 on the left side and 11 on the right side. The age ranged from 58 to 84 years old with an average of (71.5±5.8 ) years old. The time from injury to operation 3 to 18 d with an average of (7.9±4.3) d. According to Neer's classification, there were 2 cases of three-part fractures with dislocations and 17 cases of four-part fractures, including 6 cases with dislocation and 2 cases with head splits. All 19 patients used the modular prosthesis. The greater tuberosity fracture fragments were reduced to determine the distance from the apex of the greater tuberosity to the humerus marking point. This distance was used as the standard for the height of the prosthesis. One year after the operation, the Constant-Murley score and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder score were used to evaluate the functional status of the shoulder joint and patient satisfaction.The 19 patients were followed up from 12 to 58 months with an average of (31.9±14.2) months. The length of the upper arm was 26 to 32 cm after the operation, two-sided comparison error0.5 cm. Anteroposterior and lateral X-ray films of the shoulder joint at 3 months after operation showed that the fracture fragments were all healed. After one year follow-up, the Constant-Murley score was 80.8±8.9, and the UCLA score was 27.9±4.8. Patient satisfaction rate was 89.5%(17/19).The greater tuberosity fracture fragments reduction technique, which use the distance from the apex of the greater tuberosity of humerus to the humeral marking point as the standard for the height of the prosthesis, is a simple and effective way with good outcomes in shoulder hemiarthroplasty for treatment of proximal humerus fractures.

Background:. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)-associated genes and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can contribute to human disease. To comprehensively investigate the contribution of lncRNAs to breast cancer, we performed the first genome-wide lncRNA association study on Han Chinese women. Methods:. We designed an lncRNA array containing >800,000 SNPs, which was incorporated into a 96-array plate by Affymetrix (CapitalBio Technology, China). Subsequently, we performed a two-stage genome-wide lncRNA association study on Han Chinese women covering 11,942 individuals (5634 breast cancer patients and 6308 healthy controls). Additionally, in vitro gain or loss of function strategies were performed to clarify the function of a novel SNP-associated gene. Results:. We identified a novel breast cancer-associated susceptibility SNP, rs11066150 (Pmeta = 2.34 × 10−8), and a previously reported SNP, rs9397435 (Pmeta = 4.32 × 10−38), in Han Chinese women. rs11066150 is located in NONHSAT164009.1 (lncHSAT164), which is highly expressed in breast cancer tissues and cell lines. lncHSAT164 overexpression promoted colony formation, whereas lncHSAT164 knockdown promoted cell apoptosis and reduced colony formation by regulating the cell cycle. Conclusions:. Based on our lncRNA array, we identified a novel breast cancer-associated lncRNA and found that lncHSAT164 may contribute to breast cancer by regulating the cell cycle. These findings suggest a potential therapeutic target in breast cancer.

PURPOSE To investigate the association between the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and the risk of early biliary infection (EBI) after the placement of percutaneous transhepatic biliary stents (PTBS) in patients with unresectable malignant biliary obstruction (MBO). MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 136 patients with unresectable MBO (82 males and 54 females) treated with PTBS were included in this multicenter retrospective study. PPIs were prescribed to MBO patients with dyspepsia. The risk factors for EBI were identified by univariate and multivariate analyses. The association between the use of PPIs and EBI was assessed by logistic analyses. RESULTS A total of 72 (53%) patients were regular users of PPIs, and 33 (24%) patients developed EBI after PTBS. Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that diabetes (hazard ratio [HR], 20.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 5.6-72.9; P

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to develop an effective nomogram and artificial neural network (ANN) model for predicting recurrent hemoptysis after bronchial artery embolization (BAE). MATERIALS AND METHODS. The institutional ethics review boards of the two participating hospitals approved this study. Patients with hemoptysis who were treated with BAE were allocated to either the training cohort (Hospital A) or the validation cohort (Hospital B). The predictors of recurrent hemoptysis were identified by univariable and multivariable analyses in the training cohort. A nomogram and ANN model were then developed, and the accuracy was validated by the Harrell C statistic and ROC curves in both the training and validation cohorts. RESULTS. A total of 242 patients (training cohort, 141; validation cohort, 101) were enrolled in this study. The univariable and multivariable analyses revealed that age of 60 years old or older (hazard ratio [HR], 3.921; 95% CI, 1.267-12.127; p = 0.018), lung cancer (HR, 18.057; 95% CI, 4.124-79.068; p 0.16) according to the nomogram.

To identify the predictors for recovery of pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) patients treated with percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD) and antibiotics, and then develop an effective nomogram to predict the recovery time. The retrospective study included consecutive PLA patients treated with PCD and antibiotics. We defined the overall recovery time (ORT) as the time from the PCD procedure to the time of clinical success or failure. Based on the ORT, its predictors were identified with univariate and multivariate analyses. Then, a nomogram was developed to predict the ORT, and was internally validated by using Harrell’s c statistic. A total of 116 patients and 142 PCD procedures with a median ORT of 15.0±10.6 days were included. Gas-formation (GF; HR: 0.486 [95% CI 0.312–0.757]; P = 0.001), diabetes mellitus (DM; HR: 0.455 [95% CI 0.303–0.682]; P

To compare clinical effects of compound betamethasone and compound betamethasone with hyaluronic acid in treating moderate-severe knee osteoarthritis (KOA).A prospective randomized controlled study was conducted in 116 patients with unilateral moderate-severe KOA patients from February 2017 to November 2017 and divided into observation group and control group, 58 patients in each group. In observation group, there were 15 males and 43 females aged from 45 to 80 years old with an average of (66.45±6.31) years old;according to Kellgren-Lawrence(K-L) classification, 42 patients were type Ⅲ and 16 patients were type Ⅳ;the courses of disease ranged from 4 to 8 years with an average of (5.25±2.21) years;the patients were treated by injecting 1 ml compound betamethasone into knee joint. In control group, there were 13 males and 45 females aged from 45 to 80 years old with an average of (64.89±6.41) years old;according to K-L classification, 43 patients were type Ⅲ and 15 patients were type Ⅳ;the courses of disease ranged from 4 to 10 years with an average of (5.41±2.35) years;the patients were treated by knee joint injection of 4 ml hyaluronic acid and 1 ml compound betamethasone. Visual analog scale (VAS), Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) were used to evaluate clinical effects before treatment and 1 week, 1, month, 3 and 6 months after treatment.Totally 55 patients in observation group were followed up for 6 months, and 3 patients were quit at 3 months after treatment for poor efficacy. Totally 56 patients in control group were followed up for 6 months, and 2 patients were withdrew from the follow-up on the first and third month respectively for poor efficacy. There were no statistical difference in VAS and WOMAC between two groups before treatment and different time points after treatment (For patients with moderate-severe KOA, there is no significant difference in therapeutic effect between compound betamethasone injection and compound betamethasone combined with hyaluronic acid injection, and long-term effect of two methods is not good.

Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) control organ functions, metabolism, and development through the secretion of angiokines. LSECs express hepatocyte growth factor (Hgf), which is involved in prenatal development, metabolic homeostasis, and liver regeneration. This study aimed to elucidate the precise contribution of LSEC-derived Hgf in physiological homeostasis and liver regeneration. Stab2-iCretg/wt;Hgffl/fl (HgfΔLSEC) mice were generated to abrogate Hgf expression selectively in LSECs from early fetal development onwards, to study global development, metabolic and endothelial zonation, and organ functions as well as liver regeneration in response to 70% partial hepatectomy (PH). Although zonation and liver/body weight ratios were not altered, total body weight and total liver weight were reduced in HgfΔLSEC. Necrotic organ damage was more marked in HgfΔLSEC mice, and regeneration was delayed 72 hours after PH. This was associated with decreased hepatocyte proliferation at 48 hours after PH. Molecularly, HgfΔLSEC mice showed down-regulation of Hgf/c-Met signaling and decreased expression of Deptor in hepatocytes. In vitro knockdown of Deptor was associated with decreased proliferation. Therefore, angiocrine Hgf controls hepatocyte proliferation and susceptibility to necrosis after partial hepatectomy via the Hgf/c-Met axis involving Deptor to prevent excessive organ damage.

Human amniotic membrane mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) are considered ideal candidate stem cells for cell-based therapy. In this study, we assessed whether hAMSCs transplantation promotes neurological functional recovery in rats after traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI). In addition, the potential mechanisms underlying the possible benefits of this therapy were investigated. Female Sprague–Dawley rats were subjected to SCI using a weight drop device and then hAMSCs, or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) were immediately injected into the contused dorsal spinal cord at 2 mm rostral and 2 mm caudal to the injury site. Our results indicated that transplanted hAMSCs migrated in the host spinal cord without differentiating into neuronal or glial cells. Compared with the control group, hAMSCs transplantation significantly decreased the numbers of ED1+ macrophages/microglia and caspase-3+ cells. In addition, hAMSCs transplantation significantly increased the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the injured spinal cord, and promoted both angiogenesis and axonal regeneration. These effects were associated with significantly improved neurobehavioral recovery in the hAMSCs transplantation group. These results show that transplantation of hAMSCs provides neuroprotective effects in rats after SCI, and could be candidate stem cells for the treatment of SCI.

Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor gamma (PPARγ) is a nuclear receptor demonstrated to play an important role in various biological processes. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of PPARγ on liver regeneration upon partial hepatectomy (PH) in mice. Mice were subjected to two-thirds PH. Before surgery, mice were either treated with the PPARγ agonist rosiglitazone, the PPARγ antagonist GW9662 alone, or with the c-met inhibitor SGX523. Liver-to-body-weight ratio, lab values, and proliferation markers were assessed. Components of the PPARγ-specific signaling pathway were identified by western blot and qRT-PCR. Our results show that liver regeneration is being inhibited by rosiglitazone and accelerated by GW9662. Inhibition of c-Met by SGX523 treatment abrogates GW9662-induced liver regeneration and hepatocyte proliferation. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) protein levels were significantly downregulated after rosiglitazone treatment. Activation of HGF/c-Met pathways by phosphorylation of c-Met and ERK1/2 were inhibited in rosiglitazone-treated mice. In turn, blocking phosphorylation of c-Met significantly abrogated the augmented effect of GW9662 on liver regeneration. Our data support the concept that PPARγ abrogates liver growth and hepatocellular proliferation by inhibition of the HGF/c-Met/ERK1/2 pathways. These pathways may represent potential targets in response to liver disease and could impact on the development of molecular therapies.

Objective The use of fast-track general anesthesia in patients undergoing nonrobotically assisted and totally thoracoscopic cardiac surgeries has not been previously reported previously. Design A prospective clinical study. Setting A university hospital. Participants Ninety-six patients (41 males; mean age, 13.2 ± 6.2 years; range, 5-47 years). Intervention Nonrobotically assisted totally thoracoscopic surgeries were performed for atrial (n = 58) or ventricular septal defect (n = 32), tetralogy of Fallot (n = 2), left atrial myxoma (n = 3), and pulmonary valve stenosis (n = 1). Fast-track general anesthesia was induced with midazolam, propofol, fentanyl, and vecuronium and was maintained with remifentanil and sevoflurane. Cardiopulmonary bypass was established peripherally through the femoral vein and artery. Measurements and Main Results All surgeries were successful. There were no perioperative mortality or major complications. The mean cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic cross-clamp times were 42 ± 21 minutes and 33 ± 8 minutes, respectively. In 82 cases, the heart regained beats automatically after the release of the aortic cross-clamp, whereas in 14 patients external defibrillation was required. Extubation was conducted in 32 patients (33.3%) in the operating room 15 minutes after the operation. The mean times of mechanical ventilation and stay in the intensive care unit were 1.5 ± 0.2 hours and 20.1 ±1.2 hours, respectively. Conclusions Cardiopulmonary bypass for totally thoracoscopic cardiac surgery can be established through the femoral artery and femoral vein. With fast-track anesthesia, early extubation in the operating room can be achieved in more than one third of patients.

Integrated HIV response refers to a formalized, collaborative process among organizations in communities with HIV at-risk populations. It is a both comprehensive and flexible scheme, which may include community-based environment promotion, skill coalition, fund linkage, human resource collaboration and service system jointly for both HIV prevention and control. It enables decisions and actions responds over time. In 1997, the Chinese government developed a 10-year HIV project supported by World Bank Loan (H9-HIV/AIDS/STIs). It was the first integrated STI/HIV intervention project in China and provides a unique opportunity to explore the long-term comprehensive STI/HIV intervention in a low-middle income country setting. Significant outcomes were identified as development and promotion of the national strategic plan and its ongoing implementation; positive knowledge, behavioral and STI/HIV prevalence rate change; and valuable experiences for managing integrated HIV/STI intervention projects. Essential factors for the success of the project and the key tasks for the next step were identified and included well-designed intervention in rural and low economic regions, unified program evaluation framework and real-time information collection and assessment.

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is associated with dysregulated expression of microRNAs (miRNAs). However, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying this disorder remain unclear. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that miRNAs modulate IDD through effects on the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway, a potential regulator of IDD. The miRNA expression profile was determined in nucleus pulposus (NP) tissues from patients with IDD and controls, employing miRNA microarray and quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR). Biological functions of differential expression miRNAs were further investigated using immunofluorescent staining. Luciferase reporter assays and Western blotting were performed to determine miRNA targets. We identified 41 miRNAs that were differentially expressed in patients compared with controls. Following RT-qPCR confirmation, miR-98 was significantly downregulated in degenerative NP tissues. Moreover, its level was inversely correlated with grade of disc degeneration. Through gain-of-function and loss-of-function studies, miR-98 was shown to significantly promote type II collagen expression in NP cells. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) was identified as a target of miR-98. Knockdown of IL-6 induced effects on NP cells similar to those induced by miR-98. In contrast, IL-6 treatment abrogated the effects induced by miR-98 upregulation. Moreover, miR-98 dramatically suppressed expression of STAT3 target gene, MMP2. IL-6 treatment antagonized this effect, whereas knockdown of IL-6 by IL-6 short hairpin RNA (shIL-6) induced inhibitory effects on the expression of p-STAT3 and its main target genes, similar to miR-98. The mRNA level of IL-6 was inversely correlated with that of miR-98 in degenerative NP tissues. These results suggest the downregulation of miR-98 could promote IDD through the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway. Our findings also highlight miR-98 as a novel hopeful therapeutic target for IDD.

China is facing a major crisis because of the increasing epidemic of HIV/AIDS, especially in the western areas. The purpose of this paper is to enhance understanding of the crisis by analysing the published literature on the epidemiology, demographic features, routes of infection, and risk factors of HIV/AIDS infection in the 12 provinces in the west of China. HIV/AIDS has increased rapidly in recent years. The situation is urgent and requires comprehensive action. China's health care system is decentralized and under-funded, and access to treatment by the poor is seriously limited. There is a lack of knowledge about HIV/AIDS in the general public and health care workers. The HIV/AIDS epidemic emerged initially in western areas of the country by means of intravenous drug use, but sexual risk behaviour and mother-to-child transmissions in the west of China are becoming important for HIV transmission.

Contrast-enhanced echocardiography (CEE) using agitated saline can detect intrapulmonary vasodilatation (IPVD) in patients with hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS). We estimated the pulmonary transit time of erythrocytes (PTT) by CEE, using microbubbles, and studied its relationship to arterial oxygenation in chronic liver disease.Sixteen patients with chronic liver disease and seven healthy subjects were studied. PTT was defined as the time between opacification of the right atrium and left atrium on CEE, using human serum albumin-air microbubble complexes with a mean diameter of 4 microm (Albunex). IPVD was detected by CEE with agitated saline. Arterial blood gases were analyzed with patients in the supine position, and while they were seated. Cardiac output (CO) was determined by Doppler echocardiography.The mean PTT value for all of the patients was 4.0 +/- 1.4 s. One of the 3 patients who showed IPVD was normoxemic. Mild orthodeoxia was observed in the patients with abnormal alveolar-arterial oxygen difference (A-aDO2) values (15 mmHg), but not in those with normal A-aDO2 values, or in the healthy subjects. PTT was correlated with PaO2 (r = 0.52; P0.05; n = 16) and A-aDO2 (r = -0.54; P0.05; n = 16) in the seated position. CO was significantly correlated with PTT (r = -0.62; P0.05; n = 15), but not with PaO2 and A-aDO2, in both positions.PTT may be a useful parameter for evaluating arterial oxygenation in patients with chronic liver disease with early HPS.

To observe the effect of acupuncture stimulation of "Changqiang" (GV 1) on learning-memory ability and gap junction-related protein expression in the prefrontal cortex in autism rats.Forty Wistar rats were equally randomized into control, model, GV 1 and non-acupoint groups. For establishing autism model, Valproate acid (VPA) sodium (600 mg/kg) was given (i. p.) to pregnancy rats whose intimate filial generation was confirmed to be successful autism by eye-open tests, swimming test and Morris water maze swimming tasks. GV 1 or non-acupoint (the spot below the costal region, i.e., 2 cm superior to the posterior superior iliac spine and about 3 cm lateral to the spine) was punctured and stimulated for about 1 min by using a filiform needle, once daily for 30 days except the weekends. The rats' learning-memory ability was detected by Morris water maze tasks. The expression of gap junction-related proteins connexin 43 (CX 43), CX 32 and CX 36 in the frontal cortex tissue was detected by immunohistochemistry.After modeling, the postnatal rats' eye-open time on day 14, 15 and 16 was significantly later (P0.05); and the swimming ability on postnatal day 13 and 15 was obviously lower in comparison with that of the control group (P0.05). After acupuncture treatment, the increased escape latency and the decreased swimming velocity of the autism rats were obviously suppressed in the GV 1 group, rather than in the non-acupoint group (P0.05). It suggests an improvement of learning-memory ability after acupuncture stimulation of GV 1. In comparison with the control group, the expression levels of cerebral CX 43, CX 32 and CX 36 proteins (mean grey values) were considerably down-regulated in the model group (P0.05). While compared to the model group, their expression levels were apparently up-regulated in the GV 1 group (P0.05) but not in the non-acupoint group.Acupuncture intervention of GV 1 can improve the learning- memory ability in autism rats, which may be closely related to its effects in up-regulating expression levels of CX 43, CX 32 and CX 36 in the frontal cortex.

To explore the effect mechanism of electroacupuncture (EA) at Changqiang (GV 1) or Baihui (GV 20) on autism based on molecular biology.The autism model was established by intraperitoneal injection of sodium valproate (VPA) in Wistar pregnant rats. Forty young rats with autism were selected and randomly divided into a model group, a non-acupoint group, an electroacupuncture at "Changqiang" (GV 1) (EAGV 1 for short) group and an electroacupuncture at "Baihui" (GV 20) (EAGV 20 for short) group. Another 10 normal young rats were selected as a blank group. In the EAGV 1 group, acupuncture was applied at Houhai [as Changqiang (GV 1)], then EA apparatus was connected with continuous wave, 2 Hz, 20 min, once a day for consecutive 20 days. The same EA manipulation as EAGV 1 group was used in the EAGV 20 group where "Baihui" (GV 20) was selected and non-acupoint group where non-acupoint in the right rib was selected. Blank group and model group were reared under the same conditions without any intervention. The escape latency and the ratio of swimming distance in platform quadrant to total swimming distance in each group were observed by using Morris water maze, and the PSD-95 protein expression in hippocampal CA 1 was measured by immunohistochemical techniques.Compared with the blank group, the escape latency in the model group and the non-acupoint group lengthened (both P0.05), the ratio of swimming distance in platform quadrant to total swimming distance was decreased (both P0.05), the PSD-95 protein expression was decreased (P0.05). Compared with the model group, the escape latency in the EAGV 1 group and the EAGV 20 group were decreased (both P0.05), the ratio of swimming distance in platform quadrant to total swimming distance was increased, the PSD-95 protein expression was increased (both P0.05). But the escape latency, the ratio of swimming distance in platform quadrant to total swimming distance and the PSD-95 protein expression had no significant difference between EAGV 1 group and EAGV 20 group (P0.05).Electroacupuncture at Changqiang (GV 1) or Baihui (GV 20) can respectively improve learning and memory ability of rats with autism, which has no significant difference and the mechanism of action may be related to regulation of the PSD-95 protein expression.

To explore the epidemic characteristics of HIV-1 recent infection among high-risk populations in Tianjin and to provide reasonable evidence for intervention strategy.Blood samples were detected using BED-CEIA to identify recent HIV-1 infection, and HIV/AIDS cases in Tianjin 2010 were collected to analyze epidemic data.349 of reported HIV/AIDS cases were confirmed from total 777 207 people. ALL of 87 HIV-1 recent infections were males and mainly detected from men who have sex with men (MSM), voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) and STD outpatients, the HIV-1 incidence of each group was 1.48%, 0.38%, 0.17% respectively. There were not significant difference in recent HIV-1 infection rate between other areas and locals. The homosexual transmission was 80.46% among recent HIV-1 infections.The results of this study showed that the homosexual contact was primary route of HIV transmission in Tianjin. The infection of HIV was serious among MSM, effective interventions should be taken for HIV/AIDS control and prevention urgently.

Background Liver X receptor alpha (LXRα) and endoglin have been postulated to play roles in trophoblast invasion and lipid metabolic disturbances. However, the relationship between LXRα and endoglin levels in serum and placenta of patients with preeclampsia remains poorly understood. The objective of this study was to identify correlations between LXRα, endoglin and preeclampsia and provide new feasible methods of clinical prediction and treatment for preeclampsia. Methods We enrolled 45 patients with preeclampsia (24 with moderate preeclampsia and 21 with severe preeclampsia) and 15 normal pregnant women (control group) who were admitted to the Department of Obstetrics of the General Hospital of Beijing Command between October 2012 and July 2013 in this study. Serum and placental LXRα and endoglin levels were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, real-time quantitative PCR, tissue microarray and immunohistochemistry. Results Serum and placental LXRα and endoglin levels were significantly higher in patients with preeclampsia than those in control group (P

To observe the impacts on integrated electromyogram (IEMG) of gastrocnemius muscle of the children with spastic cerebral palsy treated with different intervention order of acupuncture and kinesithera py.Twenty-nine children with spastic cerebral palsy were randomly divided into group A (15 cases) in which the patients were treated with acupuncture before kinesitherapy, and group B (14 cases) in which the patients were treated with acupuncture after kinesitherapy. In group A, acupuncture was applied at Weizhong (BL 40) and Chengshan (BL 57). Afterward, Bobath kinesitherapy was adopted. In group B, Bobath kinesitherapy was adopted at first, and acupuncture was applied at Weizhong (BL 40) and Chengshan (BL 57) afterward. The instant changes of IEMG after treatment were recorded in each group.(1) Group A: after single acupuncture and the combined intervention in which acupuncture was applied together with kinesitherapy, IEMG increased apparently (both P0.05). There was no significant difference statistically in IEMG after acupuncture as compared with that after the combined intervention of acupuncture and kinesitherapy (P0.05). (2) Group B: after single kinesitherapy and the combined intervention in which acupuncture was applied together with kinesitherapy, IEMG increased in tendency, but no statistically significant difference indicated (both P0.05). (3) In comparison of IEMG after treatment between two groups, there was no significant difference statistically (P0.05).The different intervention order of acupuncture and kinesitherapy impacts significantly IEMG of gastrocnemius muscle of the children with spastic cerebral palsy. In order to avoid hypermyotonia of gastrocnemius muscle after treatment, kinesitherapy should be applied before acupuncture in priority.

To explore the expression and clinical significance of thymidine phosphorylase/platelet-derived endothelial cell growth factor (PD-ECGF) in renal cell carcinoma.The expression of PD-ECGF in 76 specimens of renal cell carcinoma from June 2002 to December 2006 was examined by EnVision immunohistochemistry. The correlation of the expression of PD-ECGF with the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis in renal cell carcinoma patients were analyzed.Among 76 renal cell carcinoma patients, 41 patients had a high-level expression of PD-ECGF while another 35 patients a low-level expression. The expression of PD-ECGF was positively correlated with tumor stage and histological grade. The 5-year overall survival rate was significant lower in the patients with a high-level expression of PD-ECGF (60.98% vs 94.29%, P = 0.000). Univariate analysis showed that the characteristics with the prognostic significance for survival were tumor stage, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, histological grade and the expression of PD-ECGF. Multivariate analysis showed that tumor stage, histological grade and the expression of PD-ECGF were independent prognostic factors (OR: 17.971, 9.702, 6.790, 95%CI: 3.010 - 107.290, 1.835 - 51.305, 1.156 - 39.894).The expression of PD-ECGF may play an important role in the development and invasion of renal cell carcinoma. An elevated level of PD-ECGF is probably correlated with the prognosis of renal cell carcinoma.

Host immune responses are critical steps for carcinogenesis. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in immunoregulatory genes may influence gastric cancer risk. We performed a genotyping analysis for immunoregulatory genes in 311 gastric cancer cases and 425 controls from a Chinese population. We found that there were significant differences of E-selectin variant rs5361 (AC) and FCGR2A variant rs1801274 (TC) between cases and controls (P = 0.022 and P = 0.0001, respectively). Logistic regression analysis indicated that genotype of E-selectin rs5361AC increased the risk of gastric cancer significantly (P = 0.026, adjusted Odds ratio (OR) = 2.84, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.13-7.12). C allele of E-selectin rs5361 showed a significant increased frequency in cases (P = 0.023). However, the E-selectin variant did not affect the protein expression. E-selectin protein was observed not only in tumor interstitial vascular endothelial cells, but also in gastric cancer cells at primary and metastatic sites. The protein was associated with clinicopathological characteristics of gastric cancer, such as age (P = 0.008), tumor size (P = 0.027), differentiation (P = 0.000), and tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stage (P = 0.006). CT and CC + CT genotypes of FCGR2A variant rs1801274 increased gastric cancer risk (P = 0.000, adjusted OR = 1.92, 95%CI = 1.36-2.72; P = 0.003, adjusted OR = 1.68, 95%CI = 1.20-2.35, respectively). Interleukin-4 receptor (IL-4R) variant rs2107356 presented negative correlations to E-selectin variant rs5361 and FCGR2A variant rs1801274 (P = 0.035 and P = 0.023) in conferring susceptibility to gastric cancer. We concluded E-selectin variant rs5361 and FCGR2A variant rs1801274 were significantly associated with gastric cancer risk. Expression of E-selectin protein would promote progression of gastric cancer.

Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a maternally transmitted disease. Clinically, no efficient assay protocols have been available. In this study, we aimed to develop an oligonucleotide biochip specialized for detection of known base substitution mutations in mitochondrial DNA causing LHON and to investigate frequencies of LHON relevant variants in Anhui region of China. Thirty-two pairs of oligonucleotide probes matched with the mutations potentially linked to LHON were covalently immobilized. Cy5-lablled targets were amplified from blood DNA samples by a multiplex PCR method. Two kinds of primary mutations 11778 G > A and 14484 T > C from six confirmed LHON patients were interrogated to validate this biochip format. Further, fourteen Chinese LHON pedigrees and twenty-five unrelated healthy individuals were investigated by the LHON biochip, direct sequencing and pyrosequencing, respectively. The biochip was found to be able efficiently to discriminate homoplasmic and heteroplasmic mtDNA mutations in LHON. Biochip analysis revealed that twelve of eighteen LHON symptomatic cases from the 14 Chinese pedigree harbored the mutations either 11778G > A, 14484T > C or 3460G > A, respectively, accounting for 66.7%. The mutation 11778G > A in these patients was homoplasmic and prevalent (55.5%, 10 of 18 cases). The mutations 3460G > A and 3394T > C were found to co-exist in one LHON case. The mutation 13708G > A appeared in one LHON pedigree. Smaller amount of sampling and reaction volume, easier target preparation, fast and high-throughput were the main advantages of the biochip over direct DNA sequencing and pyrosequencing. Our findings suggested that primary mutations of 11778G > A, 14484T > C or 3460G > A are main variants of mtDNA gene leading to LHON in China. The biochip would easily be implemented in clinical diagnosis.

To investigate the diagnosis, treatment and outcomes of bone lymphangioma associated with spinal deformity in children.Eight cases of children with bone lymphangioma associated with spinal deformity at our hospital from 1983 to 2010 were reviewed and analyzed with the following criteria: clinical manifestations, imaging features, histopathological characteristics and therapeutic options. The outcomes of early intervention treatment were assessed. The key diagnostic points and therapeutic principles were summarized on the basis of our own as well as international and domestic experiences.Paraplegia developed in 2 cases because of delayed treatment. The remaining 6 cases were followed up for 10 months to 2 years with satisfactory effects. By curettage lesions, bone grafts, intralesional injection of bleomycin and pedicle screw-stick system maintaining the spinal stability, bone lymphangioma became smaller or disappeared and spinal deformity was effectively controlled. The mean scoliosis and kyphosis correction rates were 57.0% and 58.4% respectively.Bone lymphangioma in children is rare. If costa and vertebrae are involved, spinal deformity will progressively develop and lead eventually to paraplegia. With an early diagnosis and the administration of proper drugs, bone lymphangioma can be effectively controlled. Surgery for the stability of spinal deformity will effectively prevent the occurrence of paraplegia.

The multifunctional protein p100 is a vital transcriptional regulator that increases gene transcription by forming a physical bridge between promoter-specific transcription factors and the basal transcription machinery. To identify potential signal transduction pathways in which human p100 acts as a coregulator and to find target promoter regions that may interact with p100, we performed a promoter microarray assay called chromatin immunoprecipitation-guided ligation and selection (ChIP-GLAS). From this assay, we determined that a set of promoter fragments, including several factors in the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway, exhibited interaction with p100. The ChIP-GLAS data were validated by RT-PCR assessing the mRNA expression of various factors in the TGF-β signaling pathway in cell lines.

BACKGROUND To examine the relation between demographic factors and symptom type in the use of gynecological health services in rural China. METHODS Married women aged 19 to 45 years from three rural communities in Anhui province, central China, were invited to participate in a structured interview in the summer of 2006. They provided information on gynecological symptoms, healthcare-seeking behaviour and socio-demographic characteristics. Risk factors were analyzed using logistic regression. RESULTS 860/1221(70.4%) reported at least one gynecological symptom during the previous year, with 485 (39.7%) reporting three or more. Of the women with symptoms, 36.7% sought treatment during the previous year. Younger women and those with multiple symptoms were more likely than others to seek treatment. Women with abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge were more likely to delay seeking treatment. Years of education were strongly related to seeking treatment. More highly educated women and women with a higher household income were more likely than others to seek treatment at the highest level (county or city hospital) of the tertiary healthcare system rather than at a village clinic or township hospital. Women who did not seek treatment were more likely to report that they saw no need than to say that they could not afford care. CONCLUSION There may be a misperception of the need for, and utility of, treatment for gynecological symptoms, particularly in more disadvantaged women. Interventions should both address women's negative perceptions and reinforce the capacity of the local health facilities to ensure effective care.

To investigate the relationship between condyle movement and temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in patients with Class II division 1 malocclusion.Twenty patients (from 11 to 12 years old) with Class II division 1 malocclusion before treatment were collected. Computer aided diagnosis axiograph (CADIAX) and magnetic resonance images (MRI) were used to analyze the condyle movement between disc displacement and normal groups.The sensitive values were found in open/close process in patients with disc displacement: Y [Left: (0.32 +/- 0.10) mm, Right: (-0.91 +/- 0.49) mm ], Z [Left: (4.20 +/- 0.70) mm, Right: (3.44 +/- 0.21) mm], sagittal condylar inclination (SCI) [Left: (32.48 +/- 7.70) degrees , Right: (33.47 +/- 12.60) degrees ] and horizontal condylar inclination (TCI) [Left: (-2.60 +/- 2.02) degrees , R: (-9.23 +/- 5.58) degrees ], and those items showed significant difference between two groups.The side shift of condyle movement in maximum open/close process might be the inducement of disc displacement. It was revealed that the changes in condyle movement could give useful information in early stage of functional treatment.

We performed a genome-wide association study of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) by genotyping 1,077 individuals with ESCC and 1,733 control subjects of Chinese Han descent. We selected 18 promising SNPs for replication in an additional 7,673 cases of ESCC and 11,013 control subjects of Chinese Han descent and 303 cases of ESCC and 537 control subjects of Chinese Uygur-Kazakh descent. We identified two previously unknown susceptibility loci for ESCC: PLCE1 at 10q23 (P(Han combined for ESCC) = 7.46 x 10(-56), odds ratio (OR) = 1.43; P(Uygur-Kazakh for ESCC) = 5.70 x 10(-4), OR = 1.53) and C20orf54 at 20p13 (P(Han combined for ESCC) = 1.21 x 10(-11), OR = 0.86; P(Uygur-Kazakh for ESCC) = 7.88 x 10(-3), OR = 0.66). We also confirmed association in 2,766 cases of gastric cardia adenocarcinoma cases and the same 11,013 control subjects (PLCE1, P(Han for GCA) = 1.74 x 10(-39), OR = 1.55 and C20orf54, P(Han for GCA) = 3.02 x 10(-3), OR = 0.91). PLCE1 and C20orf54 have important biological implications for both ESCC and GCA. PLCE1 might regulate cell growth, differentiation, apoptosis and angiogenesis. C20orf54 is responsible for transporting riboflavin, and deficiency of riboflavin has been documented as a risk factor for ESCC and GCA.

Keloids are benign fibroproliferative dermal tumors of unknown etiology. Some studies have suggested that human HLA status might potentiate development of keloids phenotype. No report has been published about HLA class I alleles associated with keloids in Chinese Han individuals. To investigate the etiology of keloids, the polymerase chain reaction-sequence-specific primer (PCR-SSP) method was used to analyze the distribution of HLA class I alleles in 192 patients with keloids and 252 healthy controls in a Chinese Han population. The frequencies of HLA-A*03 (6.77% vs 0%, p(c)10(-7)), A*25 (10.16% vs 4.56%, p(c) = 0.0111), B*07 (7.81% vs 2.58%, p(c) = 0.0080), and Cw*0802 (19.79% vs 10.32%, p(c) = 0.0004) were significantly increased in keloid patients, whereas the frequency of HLA-A*01 (18.75% vs 38.10%, p(c)10(-7)) was highly decreased, compared with that in healthy controls. The A*03-B*07, A*25-B*07, A*03-Cw*0802, A*25-Cw*0802, and B*07-Cw*0802 were found as high-risk haplotypes in developing keloids in this study. No extended haplotype was found to be significantly related to keloids. Through stratified analysis, the association of subgroups (single site/multiple site, severity, and family history) of keloid patients with specific HLA alleles was identified. Our data suggest these alleles may be keloids susceptibility genes or may be in close linkage with the susceptibility genes.

To observe effects of different interference orders of electroacupuncture and exercise therapy on the therapeutic effect of hemiplegia after stroke.The patients of hemiplegia due to stroke were randomly divided into a group A and a group B. The group A were treated by exercise therapy after electroacupuncture (EA) and the group B by EA after exercise therapy. Fugl-Meyer evaluation (FME), modified Barthel index (MBI) and amplitude of somatosensory evoked potential (SEP) on the affected side before treatment and after one therapeutic course (2 weeks) were recorded and compared in the two groups.Before and after treatment, FME were 31.760 +/- 4.438 and 76.640 +/- 3.621, and MBI were 26.520 +/- 2.413 and 62.360 +/- 3.700 in the group A; and FME were 32.480 +/- 5.903 and 65.640 +/- 5.212, and the MBI were 28.000 +/- 3.383 and 54.480 +/- 5.205 in the group B, respectively, with very significant differences in FME and MBI in the two groups (all P0.01); and the different values before and after treatment in the two indexes in the group A were better than those in the group B (all P0.05). There was a very significant difference in the amplitude of SEP before and after treatment in the group A (P0.01) and no significant difference in the group B, and there was no significant difference between the two groups in the different value of the amplitude of SEP.Combination of any orders of electroacupuncture and exercise therapy can improve limb function of the patient with hemiplegia after stroke, but the therapeutic effect of exercise therapy after EA is better.

To investigate the expression and mutation of Mad1, Mxi1 and Rox genes in leukemia cells.Expression and mutation of Mad1, Mxi1 and Rox genes in bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMNC) from 26 de novo acute leukemia (AL) patients, and in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNC) from 30 healthy volunteers, as well as in 7 human leukemic cell lines were analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), single strand conformational polymorphism (SSCP) and DNA sequencing.RT-PCR showed that all the above cells expressed Mad1, Mxi1 and Rox mRNA. SSCP revealed four polymorphisms: two in Mad1, one each in Mxi1 and Rox. DNA sequencing detected nine missense mutations: two in Mad1 in AL patients, four in Mxi1 (three in AL patients and one in KG-1 cell line), and three in Rox in AL patients. The mutations of Mad1, Mxi1 and Rox mRNA were detected in 2, 3 and 3 patients, respectively.It is for the first time to demonstrate the mutations of Mad1, Mxi1 and Rox genes in AL patients suggesting these mutated genes involve in the pathogenesis of leukemia.

The aim of this work was to study the phenotypic and molecular characterization of a novel plasmid-mediated AmpC β-lactamase from Escherichia coli E384. Conjugation experiments, isoelectric focusing, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, plasmid profiling, and Southern blot as well as PCR, sequencing techniques, and susceptibility testing were carried out to investigate the underlying mechanism of resistance. The kinetic parameters were determined to characterize the novel enzyme. MIR-4 β-lactamase, pI 8.2, is a novel variant with four substitutions of amino acids compared with the sequence of MIR-1. E. coli E384 displays resistance to eight β-lactam antimicrobial agents and three fluoroquinolones. The minimal inhibitory concentrations of β-lactam in combination with β-lactamase inhibitors show no significant synergy. Kinetic parameters suggest that the novel enzyme effectively hydrolyzes broad-spectrum β-lactams. The same hybridization signal was detectable only in the 54-kb plasmid band that hybridized with the bla CTX-M- and bla ampC-specific probes. This is the first description of a plasmid-mediated MIR-4 enzyme in China. This study illustrates the importance of molecular surveillance in tracking AmpC-producing strains at general hospitals and emphasizes the need for epidemiological monitoring.

Two clinical strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) and one isolate of Escherichia coli (E. coli) were collected from two large general hospitals in China. Conjugation experiment, susceptibility testing, isoelectric focusing, PCR, and sequencing techniques as well as clone, expression, purification and kinetics were carried out to describe the characterization of the novel SHV-tpye enzyme. The analysis of plasmid profiling and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis of the novel enzyme were performed to investigate epidemiology. These isolates had CTX-M-14 and SHV-89 beta-lactamases. SHV-89 beta-lactamase of pI 7.6 is a novel variant with two substitutions compared with the sequence of SHV-1: Leu35Gln and Met129Val. Its gene also had two silent mutations at positions 369 and 774, respectively. The results of substrate profiles and MIC determinations showed the activity of the novel enzyme was insufficient for the enzyme to count as an extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL). The substrates of the enzyme were also characterized. Furthermore, the three novel SHV enzyme-producing strains were epidemiologically unrelated. The emergence of a novel SHV-type beta-lactamase is rarely described in other areas. This study illustrates the importance of molecular survelliance in tracking SHV-producing strains in large teaching hospitals and emphasizes the need for epidemiological monitoring.

Trichloroethylene (TCE), a colorless and volatile organic solvent, has long been a major chemical hazard during occupational exposure because of its extensive use in industry. Exposure to TCE can cause significant skin lesions, but the effect of TCE on skin irritation has received little attention. We therefore investigated the effect of TCE on skin irritation and oxidative stress using hairless mice. BALB/c hairless mice were subjected to acute and cumulative topical TCE treatment. Skin reactions were evaluated by visual inspection, histopathology examined by microscopy and oxidative stress assessed by measurement of malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities and nitric oxide (NO) production. Under acute and cumulative TCE irritation, the skin developed erythema and edema, and the predominant histopathological features were hyperkeratosis, spongiosis and inflammatory cell infiltrates. In parallel to these morphological changes, acute TCE irritation also concentration-dependently increased MDA levels and inhibited SOD activities of the skin. However, in cumulative irritation, the MDA levels and SOD activities were initially elevated with increased TCE concentrations, but thereafter reduced with further concentration increments; the linear dose-response relationship was not preserved. TCE also concentration-dependently increased NO production both in acute and cumulative irritation. These results suggest that TCE is capable of producing skin irritation effect in vivo, with histopathological changes characterized by hyperkeratosis, spongiosis and inflammatory cell infiltrates. Moreover, oxidative stress may be associated with the clinical manifestations and histopathological abnormalities in TCE-induced skin irritation.

To record and analyze the characteristics of condyle movement before and after functional treatment in Angle class II division 1 malocclusion (II(1)) patients.Twenty Angle II(1) patients were included in the study and 20 Angle I patients without temporomandibular disorders symptoms served as controls. Computer aided diagnosis axiograph (CADIAX) was used to record the condyle movement in Angle II(1) patients and that caused by functional appliance treatment during mouth opening and closing.The tracing were vertically displayed. Value Z [L: 2.21 (1.01) mm, R: 1.12 (1.02) mm] and sagittal condylar inclination [L: 12.89 (9.12) degrees, R: 12.12 (8.89) degrees] were increased significantly in Angle II(1) patients compared with those in control group (P0.05). After functional treatment, the condyle movement in Angle II(1) patients was close to normal (P0.05).Typical characteristics of condyle movement were found in Angle II(1) patients and it was stable and repeatable. Functional therapy had a positive effect on temporomandibular joint function in Angle II(1) patients.

Estrogens have been associated with risk for epithelial ovarian cancer (OVCA). Both IL-6 and IL-8 are also likely involved in the progression of OVCA. In order to discover the underline molecular mechanism, we investigated the modulation of estrogen and two cytokines in the growth and progression of epithelial OVCA. In these studies, the effect of 17beta-estradiol (E(2)) on the expression levels of IL-6, IL-8 and their receptors was investigated. The effect of IL-6 and IL-8 on activation of estrogen-responsive promoter as well as estrogen receptor (ER)alpha and ER beta expression was also analyzed. Gene expression profile analysis revealed that CAOV-3 and OVCAR-3 cells, which express ER, IL-6 and IL-8 receptors, are suitable model for this study. We found that E(2) not only enhanced IL-6 and IL-8 production via NF-kappaB signaling pathway, but also modulated their respective receptor expression. Tamoxifen (Txf), an ER antagonist, completely abolished E(2)-stimulated cell growth and the expression of IL-6 and IL-8. IL-6/IL-8-induced cell proliferation was completely blocked by their specific neutralizing antibodies, which partially inhibited E(2)-induced cell growth. In the absence of estrogen, both cytokines activated estrogen-responsive promoter, which was completely blocked by Txf, and caused a dose-dependent ER alpha increase and ER beta decrease. Pretreatment of OVCAR-3 with p38 MAPK, MEK1/2 or ErbB2 MAPK inhibitors, respectively, blocked IL-6-mediated induction of estrogen-responsive promoter while Src inhibitor blocked IL-8-induced activation of estrogen-responsive promoter. These results provide a novel mechanism that estrogens, IL-6 and IL-8 may form a common amplifying signaling cascade to modulate OVCA growth and progression. Estrogen-induced OVCA proliferation is partially occurring via enhanced IL-6 and IL-8 production and modulated their receptors, and IL-6/IL-8 could also promote OVCA growth through an ER alpha pathway.

Previous studies demonstrated that interleukin-12 (IL-12) enhances the non-MHC-restricted cytotoxic activity of NK cells and facilitate specific allogeneic human cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses against fresh leukemia cells and cell lines. The Wilms' tumor gene, WT1 mRNA, has been used as a marker of minimal residual disease (MRD) for evaluating therapeutic efficacy of patients with leukemia or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). This study was aimed to investigate whether in vitro IL-12 can lower WT1 gene expression in peripheral blood monuclear cells (PBMNC) from patients with leukemia or MDS. PBMNC from these 30 patients and 5 healthy volunteers were cultured at 5 x 10(5) cells/ml alone with or without 100 units/ml of IL-12 for 3 days. WT1 mRNA was measured by competitive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) since WT1 mRNA is considered as a marker of minimal residual disease (MRD) in leukemia and MDS. The results demonstrated that WT1 mRNA in PBMNC of 5 healthy volunteers was less than 10(3) copies/microg of total RNA. Following the 3-day IL-12 treatment, mean WT1 mRNA of PBMNC was reduced from 10(4.8) to 10(4.2) copies/microg of total RNA in 6 CML patients, from 10(5.4) to 10(4.8) copies/microg in 12 MDS patients and from 10(5.0) to 10(4.2) copies/microg in 5 AML patients in CR, but not reduced in 5 of 7 AML in non-CR. It is concluded that IL-12 significantly decrease the quantity of leukemia cells in PBMNC of most patients with MDS, CML and AML in CR. IL-12 may be of considerable benefit in the elimination of MRD in patients with hematological malignancies.

In order to investigate the relationship between VEGF and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, -9 in acute myeloid leukemia patients, and evaluate the significance of them in extramedullary leukemic invasion, the expressions of MMP-2 mRNA, MMP-9 mRNA, VEGF mRNA in bone marrow from 86 patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), as well as human hematopoietic cell lines were analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The proteolytic activities of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the supernatants were measured by zymography. The VEGF protein in serum of all samples was detected by ELISA. All these results were analyzed for determination of the relationship between VEGF and MMP-2, MMP-9. The results showed that there was a positive correlation between expressions of MMP-2 mRNA or MMP-9 mRNA and VEGF mRNA or protein. But no such correlation was demonstrated in the AML (CR) and normal control (NC) groups. A higher expression level of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the VEGF positive group was found, as compared with the negative group (P0.05). More extramedullary infiltration occurred in VEGF positive groups than that in VEGF negative groups of AML. The expression of bcl-2 in HL-60 cells was upregulated by VEGF. It is concluded that there are significantly positive correlations between the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 with VEGF mRNA or protein levels in AML patients. VEGF can upregulate the expression of MMP-2, MMP-9 in HL-60 and a part of the primary leukemic cells. VEGF and MMP-2, MMP-9 may participate in the extramedullary leukemic invasion of AML patients.

To study the prevention and treatment on the donor site sequelae after autologous breast reconstruction with extended latissimus dorsi flap.88 patients received breast reconstruction with extended latissimus dorsi flap between May 1999 and Nov 2004 were concerned. We analyzed the donor site sequelae by objective and subjective evaluation and we assessed the functional condition. Results Dorsal hematoma developed in 1 patient. There are 7 patients with dorsal seromas and 2 of them developed capsules; 5 patients with mild skin exfoliate and 1 patient with dry skin necrosis, 2 winged shoulders. No infection and no hypertrophic scars appeared in donor site. There is no significant functional limitation and no influence in daily life.The main complication after autologous breast reconstruction with extended latissimus dorsi flap was seromas and it can be controlled to decrease. There is no severe complication. It's a worthy method in autologous breast reconstruction in oriental people.

Activin A is a kind of pre-inflammatory factor that belongs to the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) superfamily. To investigate the effect and mechanism of activin A on the activities of mouse macrophages, the secretion of NO in the supernatant of cultured mouse peritoneal macrophages was examined by NO assay kit, and the expression of iNOS, ActRIIA and ARIP2 mRNA in mouse peritoneal macrophages was analyzed by RT-PCR. The results showed that activin A stimulated the secretion of NO and the expression of iNOS mRNA in non-activated mouse macrophages in a time- and dose-dependent manner. In contrast, activin A in the same concentration inhibited the secretion of NO in LPS-activated mouse macrophages in a dose-dependent manner. ActRIIA was highly expressed on macrophages, and activin A upregulated the ActRIIA mRNA expression in macrophages. Anti-ActRIIA antibody can block the secretion of NO from the macrophages stimulated by activin A. Furthermore, RT-PCR analysis revealed that activin A enhanced the ARIP2 mRNA expression in macrophages. These results indicated that Activin A may be a weak activator compared with LPS to mouse macrophages, and activin A may modulate the secretion of NO through ActRIIA-ARIP2 signal pathway in mouse macrophages.

To investigate the association between Arg16Gly polymorphism of beta(2)-adrenergic receptor (ADRB2) gene and blood pressure levels.A total of 487 hypertensive individuals were recruited from YueXi county of Anhui province. 672 patients' parents and siblings were also invited to take part in the study and used as genomic control. Blood pressure was measured and a standardized questionnaire regarding social-economic characteristics, general health status, occupational history and life-style and dietary factors was administered for each participant. The ADRB2 Arg16Gly polymorphism was genotyped by using a PCR-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) method. The association between the ADRB2 polymorphism and hypertension in hypertensive adults was determined by utilizing a family-based association test analysis.In this study population, carriers of the ADRB2 Arg16 allele had lower systolic (P0.01) and diastolic (P0.01) blood pressure, suggesting that the genetic effect on blood pressure was more likely to fit an additive model.Our results suggest a probable association between Arg16Gly polymorphism of ADRB2 gene and hypertension.

Raman spectra of normal and cancer cell from breast cancer patients a represented. It is reported that all of the Ramanlines become weak. The intensities of Raman lines 782 and 1 084 cm(-1) of DNA phosphate group and 1 155 and 1 262 cm(-1) of deoxyribosephosphate decrease. The spectral lines 812 cm(-1) of A-type DNA and 979 and 668 cm(-1) disappear, and the 905 cm(-1) peak is shifted to lower frequency by 6 cm(-1). This means that the phosphate backbone of DNA is destroyed to a certain extent and the fissiparity of cancer cell can't be controlled effectively. In addition, the authors found a kind of Raman line 960 cm(-1) concerning calcificationand sclerosis of cancer cell. The results indicate that Raman spectra may offer the experiment basis for the cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The inverted "T" operation is a typical and classic method for breast hypertrophy. Although having good results, it leaves significant scar and tends to have bottom-out deformity with time. The purpose of this study is to introduce our experience in vertical mammaplasty.The typical Lejour's design was used. The lower part of the breast was excised. The nipple-alveolar complex was elevated to a proper position with the superior dermal-glandular pedicle. Only vertical scar was left after the skin was closed.24 patients were treated using this method. The results were satisfactory except unilateral nipple-alveolar complex necrosis occurred in one patient. Another patient had a minor revision for the dog-ear 6 months after breast reduction.Vertical reduction mammaplasty is effective with reduced scar and highly satisfactory results. It deserves recommendation.

To investigate a new surgical method to treat unilateral limb lymphedem after radical mastectomy.10 cases of upper limb lymphedema after radical mastectomy were treated using flap transfer (the lateral thoracic skin flap or latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap combined with liposuction).After the treatment, the upper limb perimeter reduced in varied degrees. Nuclear lymphatic radiography showed notable changes in lymphatic circulation. The effective results were steady during the follow-up of 3-18 months.Flap transplantation combined with liposuction is a useful treatment for limb lymphedema from radical mastectomy.

AIM: To explore the difference between cancer cells and normal cells, we investigated the Raman spectra of single cells from gastrointestinal cancer patients. METHODS: All samples were obtained from 30 diagnosed as gastrointestinal cancer patients. The flesh tumor specimen is located in the center of tumor tissue, while the normal ones were 5 cm away from the outside tumor section. The imprint was put under the micros-cope and a single cell was chosen for Raman measure-ment. All spectra were collected at confocal Raman micro-spectroscopy (British Renishaw) with NIR 780 nm laser. RESULTS: We measured the Raman spectra of several cells from gastrointestinal cancer patients. The result shows that there exists the strong line at 1002 /cm with less half-width assigned to the phenylalanine in several cells. The Raman lines of white cell were lower and less, while those of red cell were not only higher in intensity and more abundant, but also had a parti-cular C-N breathing stretching band of pyrrole ring at 1620-1540 /cm. The line at 1084 /cm assigned to phosphate backbone of DNA became obviously weaker in cancer cell. The Raman spectra of stomach cancer cells were similar to those of normal cells, but the Raman intensity of cancer cells was much lower than that of normal cells, and even some lines disappear. The lines of enteric cancer cells became weaker than spectra above and many lines disappeared, and the cancer cells in different position had different fluorescence intensity. CONCLUSION: The Raman spectra of several cells from cancer patients show that the structural changes of cancer cells happen and many bonds rupture so that the biological function of cells are lost. The results indicate that Raman spectra can offer the experiment basis for the cancer diagnosis and treatment.