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整形外科是主要对组织缺损或体表器官畸形进行整形修复或再造的学科，其基本理念是组织移植、改善外形和防治瘢痕。阴茎属于男性特有的器官，男科学中融入整形外科理念有助于形成学科鲜明特色。在包皮过长、隐匿性阴茎、尿道下裂以及小阴茎畸形的手术治疗中，均需要应用整形外科技术和理念，实现手术的精细化和个性化，以期获得更好的治疗效果，最终使患者受益。.

This study aims to investigate the expression characteristics of Krüppel-like factor 5 (KLF5) in gastric cancer (GC) and its potential correlation to pathological indexes in GC patients. Molecular mechanisms underlying the regulatory effect of KLF5 on GC progression are explored.KLF5 expressions in GC tissues were analyzed through GEPIA dataset and those collected in our hospital. By analyzing the clinical data of GC patients, the correlation between KLF5 level and pathological characteristics of GC was determined. The regulatory effects of KLF5 on proliferative ability and cell cycle progression of SGC7901 and MGC803 cells were assessed by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay, and flow cytometry. The regulation of KLF5 on expression levels of p21 and CDK4 in GC cells was determined by quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot.KLF5 was markedly upregulated in GC tissues. KLF5 level was positively correlated to TNM staging, tumor size, and metastasis of GC. Meanwhile, high level of KLF5 predicted poor prognosis in GC patients. The knockdown of KLF5 in SGC7901 and MGC803 cells attenuated proliferative ability and arrested cell cycle in G0/G1 phase. Both mRNA and the protein levels of p21 were upregulated, and CDK4 levels were downregulated in SGC7901 and MGC803 cells transfected with si-KLF5.KLF5 is upregulated in GC and closely linked to pathological characteristics of GC patients. High level of KLF5 indicates poor prognosis of GC. It is believed that KLF5 may be a potential therapeutic target for GC.

Background The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of epidemiologic and physician‐diagnosed pollen‐induced AR (PiAR) in the grasslands of northern China and to study the impact of the intensity and time of pollen exposure on PiAR prevalence. Methods A multistage, clustered and proportionately stratified random sampling with a field interviewer‐administered survey study was performed together with skin prick tests (SPT) and measurements of the daily pollen count. Results A total of 6043 subjects completed the study, with a proportion of 32.4% epidemiologic AR and 18.5% PiAR. The prevalence was higher in males than females (19.6% vs 17.4%, P = .024), but no difference between the two major residential and ethnic groups (Han and Mongolian) was observed. Subjects from urban areas showed higher prevalence of PiAR than rural areas (23.1% vs 14.0%, P

The American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) is an urban pest with a precise chemosensory system that helps it achieve complex physiological behaviours, including locating food and mating. However, its chemosensory mechanisms have not been well studied. Here, we identified 71 putative odorant carrier protein genes in P. americana, including 57 new odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) and 11 chemosensory proteins (CSPs). To identify their physiological functions, we investigated their tissue expression patterns in antennae, mouthparts, legs, and the remainder of the body of both sexes, and determined that most of these genes were expressed in chemosensory organs. A phylogenetic tree showed that the putative pheromone-binding proteins of P. americana were in different clades from those of moths. Two genes, PameOBP24 and PameCSP7, were expressed equally in antennae of both sexes and highly expressed amongst the OBPs and CSPs. These genes were expressed in Escherichia coli and the resultant proteins were purified. The binding affinities of 74 common odorant compounds were tested with recombinant PameOBP24 and PameCSP7. Both proteins bound a variety of ligands. Our findings provide a foundation for future research into the chemosensory mechanisms of P. americana and help in identifying potential target genes for managing this pest.

Gastric cancer (GC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths while the mechanisms underlying its metastasis are not fully understood. In this study, we aimed to explore the relationship between miR-217 and GC metastasis.We examined miR-217 level in gastric tumor tissues of 48 patients with GC and in cell lines including gastric mucosa epithelial cell line (GES-1), gastric cancer cell line (BGC-823), and gastric cancer cell line (SGC-7901). The effects of miR-217 on EMT conditions were detected using cell migration and invasion assays. The potential regulatory target of miR-217 was determined by prediction tool, target protein expression and Luciferase reporter assay.We found a lower expression of miR-217 in the tumor tissues of GC patients with metastasis. Increased expression of miR-217 markedly suppressed GC cell metastasis and invasion in vitro. We observed a strongly negative correlation between expressions of miR-217 and PTPN14 mRNA in GC tissues, and miR-217 repressed PTPN14 expression by directly targeting its 3'UTR. Furthermore, the loss of PTPN14 induced by miR-217 or si-PTPN14 reduced the metastasis and invasion of GC cells, whereas restoration of PTPN14 led to the enhanced metastases and invasion of GC cells. MiR-217-induced the loss of PTPN14 modulated the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in GC cells, as indicated by the modulated expression of E-cadherin.We concluded that miR-217 suppressed the EMT through directly binding to the PTPN14-3'UTR in GC progression, and might be a novel biomarker for the detection of GC metastasis.

In China, Wuling capsule, a traditional Chinese medicine consisting of Wuling mycelia of Xylaria nigripes (Kl.) Sacc (a rare type of fungus), is used to treat major depressive disorders. A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials was performed to compare the efficacy and safety of Wuling capsule alone with Wuling capsule-antidepressant combination in the treatment of major depressive disorders.Two assessors independently selected studies, extracted data, and conducted quality assessment and data synthesis. Standard mean difference, risk ratio (RR) ± 95% confidence interval (CI), the number needed to treat, and the number needed to harm were analysed.A total of 12 randomised controlled trials (880 patients; mean age ± standard deviation, 39.7 ± 12.5 years; male patients, 41%) were identified, including 4 trials with Wuling capsule alone (n = 340) and 8 with Wuling capsule-antidepressant (sertraline, mianserin, mirtazapine, and paroxetine) combination (n = 540). The mean length of trial was 5.7 ± 1.3 weeks. Meta-analysis of symptomatic improvement at last-observation endpoint and study-defined response and remission revealed no significant differences between the Wuling capsule alone and antidepressant monotherapy. The Wuling capsule-antidepressant cotreatment was superior to antidepressant monotherapy in symptomatic improvement at last-observation endpoint (standard mean difference: -0.46, p = 0.001) as well as study-defined response (68.4% vs. 56.0%, RR = 1.23; p = 0.03) and remission (46.5% vs. 34.5%, RR = 1.35; p = 0.05). Wuling capsule was associated with fewer adverse drug reactions than antidepressant monotherapy.Adjunctive Wuling capsule may augment the effects of antidepressants and may be associated with fewer adverse drug reactions. More large-scale and rigorously designed randomised controlled trials with large sample size are warranted to clarify the effectiveness of Wuling capsule for major depressive disorders.

To discuss the diagnosis, differential diagnosis, classification methods and treatment of the capitellar fractures of the distal humerus.In the study, 28 adult patients with the capitellar fractures were treated in Beijing Jishuitan Hospital from Sep. 2008 to Jan. 2014. There were 10 females and 18 males with an average age of 34 years (range: 14-66 years). According to Dubberley classification: IA type in 6 cases, IB type in 2 cases, IIA type in 8 cases, IIB type in 4 cases, IIIA type in 4 cases, and IIIB type in 4 cases. Sixteen patients were treated with a single Kochr approach, 1 with a lateral approach combined with a medial approach, 2 combined with anterior elbow approach and 9 combined with posterior median approach. All of the fractures were fixed with Herbert screws, 7 cases with support plates, and 4 cases with the hinged elbow external fixator. All of the patients were followed up for clinical examination and radiograph check. They were evaluated with Broberg-Morrey score system.The average follow-up time was 28.5 months (range 12-72 months). The average bone union time was 8 weeks. The average ulnohumeral motion was 112°(60°-150°) and forearm rotation was 145°(100°-170°). The average Broberg-Morrey score was 92.5 points (range: 62-100 points). The excellent and good rate was 91.8%. The complications of traumatic arthritis was in 2 cases and elbow stiffness was in 2 cases.Attention should be paid to the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of capitellar fractures without missing the combined injury. According to Dubberley classification, appropriate surgical approach and the internal and external fixed methods could be chosen. Early postoperative, reasonable and effective exercise is helpful to the recovery of elbow joint function.

To identify the Y-chromosomal genetic types for the soldier's remains from Huaihai Campaign, and to offer a clue for search of their paternal relatives.DNA of the remains were extracted by the ancient DNA extraction method. Yfiler kit was used for the multiplex amplification of 17 Y-STR loci. The haplogroups of the samples were speculated. Detailed genotyping of the selected Y-SNP was performed based on the latest Y-chromosome phylogenetic tree. Haplotype-sharing analysis was done based on the data of Y-SNP and Y-STR, the closest modern individual information to the genetic relationship of remains was gained.A total of 8 Y-STR haplotypes were observed on 17 Y-STR loci of 8 male individuals. Furthermore, 6 Y-SNP haplogroups were identified, which were O2a1-M95+, O1a1-P203+, O3*-M122+/M234-, D1-M15+, C3*-ST and R1a1-M17+.Identification of Y-chromosomal genetic types for the soldier's remains from Huaihai Campaign shows a reference value on inferring the geographical origins of old materials.

To assess the value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in differentiating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) from non-neoplastic lesion in cirrhotic liver in comparison with baseline ultrasound.A total of 147 nodules (diameter ≤5.0 cm) in 133 cirrhotic patients (mean age±standard deviation: 52±13 years, range 20-82 years; gender: 111 males and 22 females) were examined with CEUS. There were 116 HCCs, 26 macroregenerative nodules and 5 high-grade dysplastic nodules. CEUS was performed with a real-time contrast-specific mode and a sulphur hexafluoride-filled microbubble contrast agent.Hypervascularity was observed in 94.8% (110/116) HCCs, 3.8% (1/26) macroregenerative nodules and 60.0% (3/5) high-grade dysplastic nodules during arterial phase on CEUS. Detection rates of typical vascular pattern (i.e. hypervascularity during arterial phase and subsequent washout) in HCCs with a diameter of ≤2.0 cm, 2.1-3.0 cm and 3.1-5.0 cm were 69.2% (27/39), 97.1% (33/34) and 100.0% (43/43), respectively. CEUS significantly improved the sensitivity [88.8% (103/116) vs 37.1% (43/116), p0.001], negative predictive value [70.5% (31/44) vs 31.5% (29/92), p0.001], and accuracy [91.2% (134/147) vs 49.0% (72/147), p0.001] in differentiating HCCs from non-neoplastic lesions when compared with baseline ultrasound. However, the sensitivity and accuracy of CEUS for HCCs ≤2.0 cm in diameter were significantly lower than those for HCCs of 2.1-3.0 cm and 3.1-5.0 cm in diameter.CEUS improves diagnostic performance in differentiating HCCs from non-neoplastic nodules in cirrhotic patients compared with baseline ultrasound. Diagnosis of HCCs ≤2.0 cm diameter by CEUS is still a clinical concern, and thus needs further investigation.

In a prospective cohort study of 5,995 older American men (MrOS), users of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors had a small but significant increase in bone loss at the hip over 4 years after adjustment for confounders. Use of angiotensin II AT1 receptor blockers (ARB) was not significantly associated with bone loss.Experimental evidence suggests that angiotensin II promotes bone loss by its effects on osteoblasts. It is therefore plausible that ACE inhibitor and ARB may reduce rates of bone loss. The objective of this study is to examine the independent effects of ACE inhibitor and ARB on bone loss in older men.Out of 5,995 American men (87.2%) aged ≥65 years, 5,229 were followed up for an average of 4.6 years in a prospective six-center cohort study-The Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Study (MrOS). Bone mineral densities (BMD) at total hip, femoral neck, and trochanter were measured by Hologic densitometer (QDR 4500) at baseline and year 4.Out of 3,494 eligible subjects with complete data, 1,166 and 433 subjects reported use of ACE inhibitors and ARBs, respectively. When compared with nonusers, continuous use of ACE inhibitors was associated with a small (0.004 g/cm(2)) but significant increase in the average rate of BMD loss at total hip and trochanter over 4 years after adjustment for confounders. Use of ARB was not significantly associated with bone loss.Use of ACE inhibitors but not ARB may marginally increase bone loss in older men.

To investigate the role of T-helper cells/Treg (Th17/Treg) and morbidity factors related to primary nephritic syndrome (PNS) in children, as well as the influence of ox-low density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) on Th17/Treg expression in children with PNS. To clarify the pathogenesis of PNS in children, 50 children with PNS treated in our hospital were enrolled in the study group. Additionally, 20 healthy children who came to our hospital for physical examination during the same period were enrolled in the control group. Th17 and Treg cells in children belonging to the two groups were detected by flow cytometry; the numbers of Th17/Treg cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells at different concentrations of ox-LDL were detected simultaneously. Ox-LDL can affect the number of Th17/Treg cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and both cell types decreased with increasing concentration of ox-LDL, with the numbers being significantly lower in the control group. However, the decrease in the number of Th17 cells was statistically insignificant (P > 0.05), whereas the decrease in Treg cells was more obvious and statistically significant (P < 0.05). The effect of ox-LDL the number of Treg cells was stronger than that on Th17 cells. We concluded that the imbalance of Th17/Treg cells influenced by high and low ox-LDL concentrations in children with PNS might be the immunological basis of the disease.

The effect of subcutaneously injected diclazuril on the output of Eimeria species oocysts was studied in experimentally infected rabbits. Diclazuril was administered either prophylactically at 0.5, 1 or 2 mg/kg bodyweight two days before each rabbit was inoculated with 20,000 oocysts of a mixed-species field isolate of Eimeria or therapeutically at 1, 2 or 4 mg/kg bodyweight five days after they were inoculated. The prophylactic treatments significantly reduced (P

The mu-opioid receptor (MOR), a membrane-bound G protein-coupled receptor, is the main target for opioids in the nervous system. MOR1 has been found in several types of cancer cells and reported to be involved in tumor progression and metastasis. However, the expression and clinical significance of MOR1 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remain unclear. In our study, the expression of MOR1 was confirmed in ESCC cell lines (KYSE180, KYSE150, and EC109) by Western blot. MOR1 was also detected on tissue microarrays of ESCC samples in 239 cases using immunohistochemical staining. We found that MOR1 was mainly located in the cytoplasm and occasionally occurred in the membrane or nucleus of ESCC cells. Moreover, results indicated that MOR1 expression in the cytoplasm was associated with lymph node metastasis (R = 0.164, P = 0.008, Kendall's tau-b-test). No more associations were found between MOR1 expression status and other clinical parameters. However, no statistical significant differences were found between MOR1 expression in the cytoplasm, nucleus/membrane, and the overall survival of ESCC patients (P = 0.848; P = 0.167; P = 0.428, respectively, log-rank test). Our results suggest that the cytoplasmic MOR1 may be a high-risk factor for lymph node metastasis of ESCC patients. We also hypothesize that MOR1 agonists used in ESCC patients should be prudent, and opioid receptor antagonists may be novel therapeutic drugs for ESCC patients.

To investigate the correlation between enhancement patterns of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) on contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and pathological findings.The CEUS enhancement patterns of 40 pathologically proven ICC lesions were retrospectively analysed. Pathologically, the degree of tumour cell and fibrosis distribution in the lesion was semi-quantitatively evaluated.4 enhancement patterns were observed in the arterial phase for 32 mass-forming ICCs: peripheral rim-like hyperenhancement (n=19); heterogeneous hyperenhancement (n=6); homogeneous hyperenhancement (n=3); and heterogeneous hypo-enhancement (n=4). Among the four enhancement patterns, the differences in tumour cell distribution were statistically significant (p0.05). The hyperenhancing area on CEUS corresponded to more tumour cells for mass-forming ICCs. Heterogeneous hyperenhancement (n=2) and heterogeneous hypo-enhancement (n=2) were observed in the arterial phase for four periductal infiltrating ICCs. In this subtype, fibrosis was more commonly found in the lesions. Heterogeneous hyperenhancement (n=1) and homogeneous hyperenhancement (n=3) were observed in the arterial phase for four intraductal growing ICCs. This subtype tended to have abundant tumour cells.The CEUS findings of ICC relate to the degree of carcinoma cell proliferation at pathological examination. Hyperenhancing areas in the tumour always indicated increased density of cancer cells.

Polymorphisms in estrogen receptor alpha (ESR1) are reported to be associated with the susceptibility to persistent HBV infection, HBV liver cirrhosis and HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). To test the hypothesis that polymorphisms in estrogen receptor alpha (ESR1) might influence the virological response to entecavir (ETV) therapy, we examined two polymorphisms (PvuII and XbaI) in 76 nucleoside-naive chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. All of the patients (52 HBeAg-positive and 24 HBeAg-negative) were treated with ETV 0.5 mg daily and followed up for a median time of 96 weeks (range 48–96). Polymorphisms were determined using the polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment-length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) method. Under an additive model, the univariate analysis showed that patients carrying the PvuII T/C genotype might have higher virological responders than those carrying the T/T and C/C genotypes at week 48 (87.7 vs. 57.1 vs. 58.3 %; P = 0.012) and week 96 (96.7 vs. 64.3 vs. 24 87.5 %; P = 0.018), although this difference disappeared with the multiple analysis at week 48 [95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.687–3.841; P = 0.269] and week 96 (95 % CI 0.861–18.016; P = 0.077). Conversely, the univariate analysis suggests statistical significance between the recessive model of PvuII (TT vs. TC/CC) and virological response at week 48 (57.1 vs. 81.1 %; P = 0.033) and week 96 (64.3 vs. 94.7 %; P = 0.017). Multiple regression analysis affirmed the significant and independent association between the recessive model of PvuII and virological response. In other words, patients carrying at least one PvuII C allele (TC/CC) had a better likelihood of achieving virological response compared with those carrying the T/T genotype at week 48 (95 % CI 1.026–14.785, P = 0.046) and week 96 (95 % CI 1.456–57.509; P = 0.018). XbaI polymorphisms were not significantly associated with virological response. Our results suggest that the PvuII polymorphism may play an important role in determining ETV efficacy after 48 and 96 weeks of treatment, at least in this study population.

In this article, we reviewed our experience of treatment of cervical esophageal perforation caused by foreign bodies. Between 1980 and 2010, 42 patients were included in this study. There were 18 women and 24 men with a median age of 54 years. We divided the patients into three groups: the patients whose foreign bodies could not be extracted by otolaryngologists using endoscope (n= 7), the patients who had some signs of abscess formation but the foreign bodies had been extracted using endoscope (n= 25), and the patients who had no signs of abscess formation and the foreign bodies had been extracted (n= 10). We treated the patients of the three groups with surgical treatment, drainage alone, and conservative treatment, respectively. The outcome of the current series was favorable. Our experience suggested that most of the cases can be treated conservatively or by drainage alone. If the foreign bodies of the esophagus could not be extracted using endoscope, surgical treatment including the removal of the foreign bodies, primary repair, and drainage should be performed.

To develop a sensitive, specific and accurate method for quantifying bambuterol in human plasma and to study pharmacokinetics of bambuterol in male healthy Chinese.Plasma samples were prepared based on a simple liquid-liquid extraction. The extracted samples were analyzed on liquid chromatography using a Zorbax SB C18 column interfaced with a triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometer and detected by use of selected reaction monitoring mode.The linear calibration curves were obtained in the concentration range of 0.05-4.0 ng.mL-1. The limit of quantification was 0.05 ng.mL-1. The intra- and inter-run precision was measured to be below 7%. The inter-run accuracy was less than 8% for the analyte. After an oral administration of 10 mg bambuterol hydrochloride to 18 healthy Chinese volunteers the main pharmacokinetic parameters of bambuterol were as follows: Tmax was (2.3 +/- 1.3) h; Cmax was (3.95 +/- 2.20) ng.mL-1; T1/2 was (11.4 +/- 6.1) h and AUC0-t was (26.85 +/- 11.77) ng.h.mL-1.The method is shown to be accurate, robust and convenient, and suitable for pharmacokinetic studies of bambuterol. It was found that there was marked inter-individual difference in the pharmacokinetics of bambuterol in Chinese volunteers after a single oral dose, which may be attributed to the difference of activity of cholinesterase, an enzyme catalyzing bambuterol metabolism.

To develop a liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry method for rapid analysis of terbutaline at level of 50 pg.mL-1 in human plasma.Samples containing terbutaline and salbutamol (internal standard, IS) were extracted using C18 solid-phase extraction cartridges, followed by liquid chromatographic separation and mass spectrometric detection. The mobile phase consisted of acetonitrile-water-formic acid (20:80:1), at a flow-rate of 0.4 mL.min-1. Selected reaction monitoring with mass transitions m/z 226--151 and m/z 240--148 were used for terbutaline and IS, respectively.The chromatographic analysis time for each sample was approximately 3.8 min. The assay was linear from 0.05 to 8.0 ng.mL-1. The between-run precision and accuracy of the quality controls (QCs, 0.1, 0.4 and 4.0 ng.mL-1) were characterized by relative standard deviation (RSD) of 2.5% to 7.1% and relative errors of -3.1% to 5.7%, respectively. The within-run precision of QCs was characterized by RSD of 4.2% to 6.6%. This method was applied to the analysis of samples taken up to 60 h after oral administration of 10 mg bambuterol in healthy volunteers.The method is shown to be suitable for clinical investigation of terbutaline pharmacokinetics, which offers advantages of specificity, speed, and greater sensitivity over previously reported methods.

To study the effect of leflunomide (Lef) on immunological liver injury in mice.Immunological liver injury was induced by tail vein injection of BCG + LPS (BCG 2.5 mg, 1 d, LPS 10 micrograms, 10 d). The ALT, AST, NO level in plasma and MDA, GSHpx in liver homogenate were assayed by spectroscopy. The serum content of TNF-alpha was determined by ELISA. IL-1, IL-2 and ConA-induced splenocyte proliferation response were determined by methods of 3H-infiltrated cell proliferation.Immunological liver injury induced by BCG + LPS was successfully duplicated. Lef (4, 12, 36 mg.kg-1) was found to significantly decrease the serum transaminase (ALT, AST) activity and MDA content in liver homogenate, and improved reduced GSHpx level of liver homogenate. Furthermore, Lef (4, 12, 36 mg.kg-1) significantly reduced TNF-alpha and NO level in serum, and IL-1 production by PM psi. Moreover, the decreased IL-2 production and ConA-induced splenocyte proliferation response were further inhibited.Lef showed significant protective action on immunological liver injury in mice.

To study the modulatory effects of phosphatidylinositol (PI) turnover on nicotinic receptors in CNS, and to study the relationship between brain nicotinic receptors and PI turnover.Effects of inositol phosphatase inhibitor lithium chloride (LiCl) and muscarinic receptor agonist oxotremorine (Oxo) on nicotine-induced convulsions were investigated in mice.The effects of nicotine for producing convulsions were modified by LiCl 2.5-10 mmol.kg-1, revealing the convulsive effects of nicotine0.8 mg.kg-1 were increased by acute pretreatment with LiCl rather than oxotremorine. Mice were given LiCl 5.0 mmol.kg-1 once a day for 7 d, the ED50 value of nicotine for producing convulsions was increased from 0.58 to 0.97 mg.kg-1, suggesting that the sensitivity of central nicotinic receptors for mediating convulsions was decreased by chronic treatment with LiCl.The functions of central nicotinic receptors were modulated by PI turnover.

Seventy-four patients with pituitary adenoma were treated by surgery, including 51 transsphenoidal and 23 transcranial approaches, without death, postoperative leakage of CSF and early-period intracranial infection. Many patients had a transient diabetes insipidus after operation. In discussion we attended the difference of attacking age of pituitary adenoma between male and female, the significances of CT and MRI as well as the indication and the important points of various approaches.

By the use of specific endogenous GC biosynthesis inhibitor Trilostane and exogenous GC Dexamethasone (Dex), we established three rat models with similar severity of endotoxemia, but different plasma GC level. With these models we studied the effect of elevated plasma GC on serum TNF, pathological changes of vital organs and the changes in serum amino acids and glucose concentration in comparable endotoxemic condition. It was observed that plasma GC level was negatively correlated with the maximum TNF concentration, but positively correlated with the liver tyrosine transaminase activity, serum amino acids and glucose concentrations and as the serum GC level was elevated, the pathological changes of intestine, stomach, liver and lungs became less pronounced. From these results, it was supposed that in severe endotoxemia hypersecration of endogenous GC and maintenance of high level plasma GC are essential for animals to alleviate tissue injuries by reducing the overproduction of the host-derived mediators such as TNF and promoting the metabolism of amino acids and glucose.

31 patients with cysticercosis of cerebral ventricles verified by operation or pathological investigation were reported. All patients were between 7 and 64 years of age and 14 were females. All had a single cyst. Since 29 patients (94%) were without a history of intestinal taeniasis, it was proposed that most patients of cysticercosis of cerebral ventricles were caused by hetero-infection and the entrance of Cysticercus into brain ventricle was through choroid plexus along the cerebrospinal fluid. This is probably the reason why it occurs mostly in the 4th ventricle. The clinical manifestation of cysticercosis of cerebral ventricles were paroxysmal headache and vomiting caused by increased intracranial pressure. Ventriculography and CT scanning have considerable diagnostic value. Removal of Cysticercus by surgical operation is successful (Figs. 1-8).

We studied 139 patients with upper urinary tract calculi who were treated by JT-ESWL-I and III type extra corporeal shock wave lithotripter (ESWL) for an average of 4 years and 11 months. These patients aged below 45 had no history or family history of hypertension. Hypertension was found in 1 patient (0.7%) and elevated diastolic pressure in 6 (4.3%). The recurrence rate of calculi was 5%. Before and after ESWL, Bun, Cr, B2-mG (of blood and urine), activity of blood plasma renin AT-II, -GT, NAG, mucoprotein of plasma, etc were also determined. The differences in their values were not significant. We concluded that if the indications for ESWL are strictly considered including patient selection and number of wave pulsation and energy, ESWL is still an ideal method of treatment.

This article reported a group of 43 cases of lung cancer who had no symptoms before resection, and were detected by mass screening or routine physical examination. They accounted for 15.2% of 282 cases undergoing lung cancer resection during the periods from January, 1977 to June, 1990 in our hospital. Pathologic study of the resected specimens showed that there were 32 cases of Stage I lung cancer (74.4%). Among them 15 cases were of early stage (T1N0M0) which accounted for 5.3% of 282 cases. 5-years survival rate of this subgroup was 81.8%. About one fourth of asymptomatic lung cancer belonged to middle or late stage.

The effects of icv cholinergic agonists (acetylcholine 6 micrograms, physostigmine 10 micrograms, and nicotine 20 micrograms) and cholinergic antagonists (scopolamine 40 micrograms and hexamethonium 250 micrograms) on 174 cells unit discharges of the dorsal hippocampal CA1 area in 42 rats were studied. The frequencies of the unit discharges were increased in 41 cells over 84 cells by icv M or N receptor cholinergic agonists, but reduced in 22 cells over 42 by M or N receptor cholinergic antagonists. After the electrolytic lesion of the septal region, the effects of acetylcholine and nicotine on unit discharges disappeared. The results indicated that the cholinergic agents changed the electric activity of cholinergic sensitive neurons via the septum-hippocampal cholinergic pathway.

Total IgE, specific IgE and histamine in sera from 35 documented cases of cysticercosis and 30 transfusion donors were measured and mast cell degranulation test was performed. Total IgE levels (730.61 U/ml), the positive rate of specific IgE (85.7%), histamine levels (5.3 micrograms/ml) and the positive rate of mast cell degranulation (42.9%) of the patients were found to be significantly higher than those of the normal group (P less than 0.01). The results suggested that the antigen of Cysticercus cellulosae could induce IgE production and mast cell degranulation, resulting in the release of histamine. It was, therefore, deemed that the IgE and IgE-mediated immunoreaction might be involved in the pathogenesis of human cysticercosis.

The objective indices of tongue picture of blood stasis symptom-complex in 400 patients with portal hypertension, primary hepatic carcinoma, coronary heart disease, pulmonary heart disease, intermediate and advanced gastric carcinoma were observed during the period of past 6 years. Pale purplish tongue, purplish tongue, bluish purplish tongue, deep-red purplish tongue, dark tongue, yellow purplish tongue etc. were found in these patients. All these were the tongue colour of blood stasis. Ecchymosis, patechiae, streaks, the width of sublingual vein, the appearance of veins and prominences, B mode ultrasonic examination displaying the width of intralingual vein and tissue sound transmission of the tongue body, the blood stasis changes of tongue tip microcirculation, the wave form changes of tongue rheogram had an important significance for diagnosis of blood stasis. There were significant differences in these variables between the subject group and the healthy group or the subject group and the blood non-stasis group statistically (P less than 0.001).

Six cases of either esophageal carcinoma or its post resection complications were treated by isolated jejunal grafting in our department in recent two years. Of the six cases, there were 2 of cervical anastomotic leakage after esophagocolostomy, 1 each of cervical anastomotic leakage after esophago-gastrostomy, cervical esophageal carcinoma, cervical anastomotic stricture after esophagogastrostomy, and defect of esophagus. Good results had been achieved in all of the six cases. Not a single death occurred. Indications for the use of isolated jejunal grafting and the operative techniques were discussed in detail. The author concludes that isolated jejunal grafting is worth recommending.

Neurogenic pulmonary edema (NPE) was induced by microinjection of kainic acid into bilateral preoptic area (POA) of the hypothalamus in rats. Sympathetic discharge of the left adrenal branch was recorded, plasma catecholamine (CA) was assayed and the physical properties of pulmonary surfactant (PS) of the lung lavage were measured. The results showed that some physical properties of PS were changed in NPE, i.e. maximal surface tension (gamma Max) decreased, minimum surface tension (gamma Min) increased, recruitment index (RI), stability index and area of hysteresis loop (H-area) decreased. After injection of kainic acid into POA, the sympathetic discharge increased by 22.8 +/- 7.20% and 32.2 +/- 8.0% respectively at 30 and 60 min after injection and paralleled by a marked elevation of plasma catecholamine (CA). The results showed that PS activity had decreased at an early stage of NPE and the change of the plasma CA level was parallel to that of sympathetic discharge. It is suggested that generation of NPE may be related to some disorder of the autonomic nervous system at the level of hypothalamus, increase of sympathetic discharge, elevation of plasma CA level and fall of PS activity.

RNA transfer (Northern) blot analysis was used to perform the physical characterization of the transcript expressed in murine sensory nerve ganglia latently infected with herpes simplex virus type 1. Most of this latency-associated transcript (LAT) was isolated in the poly(A)- fraction from ganglia. A smaller RNA species was also detected at less than 10% the abundance of the major one. LAT was not detected with probes from DNA outside the limits of the larger species. In situ hybridization data correlated well with Northern blot analysis; however, low levels of hybridization were seen with probes immediately outside the region of viral DNA giving positive Northern blot signals. S1 nuclease and primer extension mapping were used to locate the 5' end of the LAT 510 bases to the left of a KpnI site at 0.783 map units. The 3' end of the major latency-associated species was mapped to just within a 310-base-pair SmaI fragment located 660 to 970 base pairs to the right of the SalI site at 0.790 map units. These data were correlated with an analysis of the sequence of the DNA encoding this transcript and its possible function in the latent phase of infection.

SummaryObjectiveTo investigate the differences in gene expression profiles of adult articular cartilage with endemic osteoarthritis (OA), Kashin–Beck disease (KBD), and the same regions in the normal joint.MethodsThe messenger RNA expression profiles of articular cartilage with KBD diagnosed according to “Diagnosing Criteria of Kashin–Beck Disease in China” were compared with the normal cartilage. Total RNA isolated separately from four pairs of the KBD and normal cartilage samples were evaluated by oligonucleotide microarray analysis. The microarray data were confirmed by quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) amplification and were compared with previously published experiments.ResultsAbout 4100 transcripts, which corresponded to 35% of the expressed transcripts, showed ≥twofold differences in expression between the cartilage tissues in pairs. Approximately 2% of the expressed genes (79, 55 genes expressed in KBD>normal; 24 genes expressed in KBD

This paper reports the effects of Ejiao (Colla Corii Asini) on endotoxin shocks in dogs. The results showed that Ejiao obviously suppresses the increase of blood viscosity during shocks, improves microcirculation, and recovers and stabilizes blood pressure rather quickly.

One hundred seven patients with fractures of the patella were treated by percutaneous suture. The method has the advantage of being simple and relatively nontraumatic. The reduction and the functional recovery were generally excellent. The reduction was poor in five cases, three of which had open reduction and internal fixation. After the percutaneous suture with steel wire is in place, the wire provides sufficient strength for internal fixation. The quadriceps expansion needs no repair. Neither open reduction nor percutaneous suture with cerclage solves the problem of the tendency of the fracture fragments to gap anteriorly. Percutaneous suture without Kirschner-wire internal fixation, with the principle of tension-band wiring, is adequate.