ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the spatiotemporal expression patterns of transforming growth factor-β(TGF-β) receptors type Ⅰ and type Ⅱ and their relationships with development of outflow tract(OFT) in mouse embryonic heart. Methods Serial sections of mouse embryos from embryonic day 9 (E9d) to embryonic day 14 (E14d) were stained using PAP immunohistochemical methods. Results Expressions of TGF-β receptors type Ⅰ (TGF-βRⅠ) and type II(TGF-βRⅡ) in the myocardial wall of OFT started at E10d, reached the reflection with splanchnic epithelium on the dorsal wall of the pericardial cavity at E11d. At E12d, expression intensity of TGF-βRⅠ and TGF-βRⅡ in myocardium increased to its highest level, and TGF-βRⅡ positive mesenchymal cells in OFT ridges could be detected. After E13d the staining intensity of TGF-βRⅠ and TGF-βRⅡ decreased rapidly,and at E14d,their expressions had fallen at the lowest.Conclusion The expressions of TGF-βRⅠ and TGF-βRⅡ in OFT are confined to the period of E10d to E14d, they may play important roles in regulating the myocardial cell proliferation, remodeling and septation of OFT, and promoting the differentiation from mesenchymal cells in the secondary heart field into smooth muscle cells in the distal end of OFT.
ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the prevalence rate of hypertension among the elderly population in Shanxi Province. Methods According to the random sampling, 41 residents committees of city blocks and villages of 9 areas (including Taiyuan, Datong, Jinzhong, Yuncheng, et al) of Shanxi Province were extracted as the investigative spots. All the people were older than 55years, and risk factors for hypertension were identified. Results A total of 3702 people were surveyed, including 1,782 men and 1,920 women. The total hypertension prevalence rate was 39.0%(the standardized rate: 39. 5 %), with 38. 7 % in men (the standardized rate: 38. 5%), 39.3 % in women (the standardized rate: 41.2%), and no statistic significance was found between men and women (χ2= 0. 143, P>0. 05). Aging, lacking of knowledge, and obesity were risk factors for hypertension. Conclusions The hypertension in Shanxi Province has a high prevalence rate among the elderly population, a comprehensive intervention should be taken in the prevention of hypertension.
ABSTRACT
Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) is an autoimmune disorder representing the commonest and most important extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves' disease.GO can be a debilitating component of the disease,resulting in impaired quality of life.Although therapeutic methods appear to be widespread,the optimal treatment remains challenging.This article reviewes recent studies on therapy pattern and evidence-based medicine,to provide practical information for managing patients with GO.