Electromyographic signals and the starting threshold voltage of orbicularis oris muscle in healthy rhesus monkeys / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective: To investigate the characteristics of electromyography (EMG) signals and the starting threshold voltages of the orbicularis oris muscles (OOM) in healthy rhesus monkeys under different muscle movement conditions. Methods: The EMG signals and the starting threshold voltages at different time points in 4 healthy rhesus monkeys were acquired and recorded with EMG device and evoked potentiometer. The voltage amplitude variation of EMG signals was analyzed, and the voltage amplitude range of EMG signals at the beginning of OOM contraction was established. The data were statistically analyzed by one-way ANOVA. Results: The EMG of OOM in healthy monkeys in the quiet, natural and continuous mouth-closed state was linear and relatively stable, and the absolute value fluctuated between 15 and 50 μV. The EMG waveform increased rapidly during the natural lip contraction movement, and its amplitude fluctuated greatly, with the highest absolute value of the peak value reaching hundreds of microvolts. The amplitude of EMG induced by continuous mouth closure was more than thousands of microvolts. There was no significant difference in EMG amplitudes of OOM in the healthy rhesus monkey under quiet and continuous lip closure at different time points (P>0.05). There was no significant difference in threshold voltages in the state of natural lip contraction of bilateral OOM at different time points (average range: 57.17-57.47 μV) in the healthy rhesus monkeys (P>0.05). There was no significant difference in threshold voltages of OOM induced by bilateral OOM at different time points(average range: 55.38-55.99 μV) in the healthy rhesus monkeys(P>0.05). There were significant differences in the absolute values of EMG amplitudes of OOM between the three lip movement modes: (30.67±8.72) μV in quiet and natural continuous lip closure (475.12±54.72) μV in natural lip contraction, and (921.22±312.79) μV in the induced persistent lip closure, with t values of -8.48, -9.35 and -5.01 respectively, all P<0.001. Conclusions: The EMG signals of OOM show different characteristics under different muscle movement conditions, which can be used as a basis for computer to judge and recognize the movement conditions of OOM. The upper limits of the EMG threshold voltage values of OOM under different motion states are 55-60 μV.

Study on the Relationship between Integrin 2A and Drug Resistance in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia / 中国实验血液学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the expression pattern and clinical significance of Integral membrane protein 2A（ITM2A） in drug resistant patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).@*METHODS@#The expression of ITM2A in CML was evaluated by qRT-PCR, Western blot and immunocytochemistry. In order to understand the possible biological effects of ITM2A, apoptosis, cell cycle and myeloid differentiation antigen expression of CML cells were detected by flow cytometry after over-expression of ITM2A. The nuderlying molecular mechanism of its biological effect was explored.@*RESULTS@#The expression of ITM2A in bone marrow of CML resistant patients was significantly lower than that of sensitive patients and healthy donors（P<0.05）. The CML resistant strain cell K562R was successfully constructed in vitro. The expression of ITM2A in the resistant strain was significantly lower than that in the sensitive strain(P<0.05). Overexpression of ITM2A in K562R cells increased the sensitivity of K562R cells to imatinib and blocked the cell cycle in G2 phase(P<0.05), but did not affect myeloid differentiation. Mechanistically, up-regulation of ITM2A reduced phosphorylation in ERK signaling (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#The expression of ITM2A was low in patients with drug resistance of CML, and the low expression of ITM2A may be the key factor of imatinib resistance in CML.

Atorvastatin suppresses lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in human coronary artery endothelial cells

Abstract The present study was designed to examine the effects of atorvastatin on vascular inflammatory responses in human coronary artery endothelial cells(HCAECs), when challenged by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) ligand. HCAECs were pretreated with atorvastatin and induced by LPS. The expression of TLR4, interleukin -6(IL-6), monocyte chemoattractant protein 1(MCP-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), intercellular adhesion molecular-1(ICAM-1), nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and p38 mitogen activated protein kinase(p38 MAPK) were evaluated using Real-time polymerase chain reaction, cytokine ELISA assay and Western blotting. The results showed that pretreatment with atorvastatin down-regulated the expression of TLR4 in LPS-activated HCAECs. Atorvastatin also attenuated the LPS-induced expression of interleukin IL-6 and MCP-1, at both the transcription and translation level in HCAECs. LPS-induced endothelial cell adhesion molecules, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression were also reduced by pretreatment with atorvastatin. Furthermore, atorvastatin efficiently suppressed LPS-induced phosphorylation of NF-κB and p38 MAPK in HCAECs. These findings show that atorvastatin suppresses endothelial cell inflammation, suggesting that atorvastatin may be suitable for development as a therapeutic agent for inflammatory cardiovascular disease.

Placental mechanisms underlying the effects of maternal stress on the fetal development / 生理学报

Placenta is the only link between the pregnant woman and fetus, and the basis for maintaining the normal pregnancy process and fetal development. Maternal stress is the maternal physiological and psychological changes caused by various factors, characterized by the increased level of glucocorticoid, which affects the hypothalamic-pituitary-target gland axis and regulates the expression of target genes. Maternal stress also changes the weight, metabolism and nutrient transportation of the placenta, which will substantially influence the development of fetus. This paper will firstly summarize the characteristics of maternal stress and its influence on offspring. Then, the changes in the body under maternal stress will be described. Finally, we will clarify the proven mechanisms underlying maternal stress and raise some important problems that have not been clarified in this area. The study of maternal stress on fetus and its underlying mechanisms will serve as theoretical basis for the diagnosis and treatment of the stress-related pregnant diseases and disorders.

Effect of dynamic balance during the onset of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo on residual dizziness after successful repositioning: a multicenter prospective cohort study / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective: To explore the characteristics of dynamic balance during the onset of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and its prediction of residual symptoms after successful repositioning. Methods: From January 2018 to August 2019, patients diagnosed with unilateral posterior semicircular canal or horizontal semicircular canal BPPV were consecutively enrolled from five otolaryngology clinics in Shanghai. The dynamic balance function was measured by sensory organization test (SOT) before repositioning maneuver, and the residual symptoms and its duration were followed up from one week to up to three months. Results: A total of 260 patients were recruited. After excluding 17 cases, 243 cases were successfully followed up including 89 males and 154 females, with an average age of (52.9±13.0) years. There were 175 cases of posterior semicircular BPPV, 61 cases of horizontal semicircular BPPV and 7 cases of canal conversion (from horizontal to posterior semicircular). Among 243 patients, 118 cases reported residual symptoms, with an incidence of 48.6%. The results of SOT showed that 58.0%(141/243) of the patients had abnormal vestibular input and 41.6%(101/243) were categorized as "near falls". With respect to the detailed residual symptoms, 47 cases (39.8%) reported unsteadiness or floating, 35 cases (29.7%) had fogginess/heaviness feeling, 22 cases (18.6%) had transient dizzy while head moving, and 15 cases (12.7%) reported that the symptom was too subtle to describe. Compared with the group without residual symptoms, the group with residual symptoms had more abnormal vestibular input(χ²=67.25, P<0.001) and near falls(χ²=74.78, P<0.001) as identified by SOT test. Cox proportional hazards regression failed to reveal any SOT results having significantly impact on the duration of residual symptoms [abnormal vestibular input (HR= 0.93, 95%CI: 0.48, 1.80), and near falls (HR= 0.90, 95%CI: 0.56, 1.46)]. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that there was no significant difference in the duration of residual symptoms among patients with different SOT manifestations [Log rank (Mantel-Cox) test, P>0.05]. Conclusions: The impaired dynamic balance during the onset of BPPV is characterized by "abnormal vestibular input". The residual symptoms are mainly characterized by unsteadiness or floating feeling. The defect of dynamic balance function is a predictor of the residual symptoms after successful repositioning, but not for the duration of such symptoms.

Cloning and Sequence Analysis of Cellulose Synthase-like Gene from Ampelopsis megalophylla / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective:To clone cellulose synthase-like(Csl)gene from ethnic medicinal plant Ampelopsis megalophylla,and analyze its sequence by bioinformatics. Method:Specific primers were designed for AmCsl gene sequences obtained from A. megalophylla transcriptome sequencing data. The full-length cDNA of AmCsl gene was amplified by PCR using cDNA of young leaves as template,and TA clone and sequencing was performed. The sequence was analyzed by bioinformatics. Result:The full length cDNA was 1 438 bp,containing a 561 bp open reading frame(ORF),and encoding 186 amino acids,the molecular formula of protein was C1011H1547N233O257S10,the theoretical relative molecular weight was 22.40 kDa,the theory isoelectric point(PI)was 7.59,and the aliphatic index(AI)was 116.88.There was a transmembrane region and no signal peptide,which may be located in the endoplasmic reticulum,the average hydrophobic coefficient was 0.670,and the instability index was 42.56.It belonged to a hydrophobic unstable protein. The conserved domain contained a cellulose synthase,and the secondary structure mainly was dominated by α-helix. Amino acid sequence alignment and phylogenetic tree analysis showed that AmCsl had a high homology with Vitis vinifera. Conclusion:The full length of AmCsl gene was obtained for preliminary bioinformatics analysis,which laid a necessary foundation for further study on the accumulation of polysaccharides and the regulation of biosynthesis.

Acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: usual interstitial pneumonitis vs. possible usual interstitial pneumonitis pattern / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

BACKGROUND@#The prognosis of acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (AE-IPF) is very poor with a high mortality. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical features and survival of patients with AE-IPF with usual pulmonary fibrosis (UIP) and possible UIP (P-UIP) pattern on chest high resolution computed tomography (HRCT).@*METHODS@#This retrospective study included 107 patients with AE-IPF admitted to Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from January 2010 to December 2016. The subjects were divided into UIP (n = 86) and P-UIP group (n = 21) based on chest HRCT. Continuous variables were analyzed using Student's t test or Mann-Whitney U test. Categorical variables were analyzed using χ test. Log-rank test was used for the survival analysis. Cox proportional models evaluated the risk factors for AE occurrence and survival.@*RESULTS@#The male, older patients, previous N-acetylcysteine use, elevated white blood cell (WBC) counts, and microbiology infection were more common in the UIP group than the P-UIP group (χ = 13.567, P < 0.001; z = -2.936, P = 0.003; χ = 5.901, P = 0.015; t = 2.048, P = 0.043; χ = 10.297, P = 0.036, respectively). The percentage of AE with UIP pattern in idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP) was significantly higher than P-UIP pattern (χ = 40.011, P < 0.001). Smoking was the risk factor for AE within 6 months after IPF diagnosis in the UIP group. The cumulative proportion survival of 30-days was significantly higher in the UIP group compared with the P-UIP group (χ = 5.489, P = 0.019) despite of the similar overall survival in the two groups. Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated WBC count, partial pressure of oxygen in artery (PaO2)/fractional concentration of inspired oxygen (FiO2), and computed tomography (CT) score were the independent predictors for survival in the UIP group (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.070, 95% confidential interval [CI]: 1.027-1.114, P = 0.001; HR: 0.992, 95% CI: 0.986-0.997, P = 0.002; and HR: 1.649, 95% CI: 1.253-2.171, P < 0.001, respectively).@*CONCLUSIONS@#AE occurrence of UIP patients in IIP was significantly more than P-UIP cases. The short-term survival was better in the UIP group despite of the similar overall survival in the two groups. WBC count, PaO2/FiO2, and CT score were the independent predictors for survival in UIP subjects.

Comparison of Orthosis and Exercise Training for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis / 中国康复理论与实践

Objective:To compare the effects of spinal orthosis and exercise training on psychological status and quality of life in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Methods:From July, 2017 to Febrary, 2018, 55 AIS patients aged ten to 16 years were enrolled. According to the individual's choice, they were divided into exercise group (n = 25) and orthosis group (n = 30). The Cobb's angle, apex vertebral rotation (AVR), trunk shift (TS) and apex vertebral translocation (AVT) were measured before, three months and six months after intervention. They were also evaluated with Scoliosis Research Society Patient Questionnaire-22 (SRS-22) before and six months after intervention. Results:Six months after intervention, the scores of function/activity level, pain, self-image/appearance and treatment satisfaction were better in the exercise group than in the orthosis group (t > 2.137, P < 0.05). Three months and six months after intervention, the Cobb's angles reduced significantly in both groups (t > 4.461, P < 0.001); six months after intervention, the Cobb's angle was smaller in the orthosis group than in the exercise group (t = 2.548, P < 0.05). Three months and six months after intervention, TS, AVR and AVT improved in both groups (t > 2.338, P < 0.05); six months after intervention, they were better in the orthosis group than in the exercise group (t > 2.259, P < 0.05). Conclusion:Single exercise training is effective on AIS patients with Cobb's angle between 25° to 40°, especially for psychological status and the quality of life, however, it isn't as better as orthotics treatment for deformity correction.

Acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: usual interstitial pneumonitis vs. possible usual interstitial pneumonitis pattern / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

Background@#The prognosis of acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (AE-IPF) is very poor with a high mortality. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical features and survival of patients with AE-IPF with usual pulmonary fibrosis (UIP) and possible UIP (P-UIP) pattern on chest high resolution computed tomography (HRCT).@*Methods@#This retrospective study included 107 patients with AE-IPF admitted to Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from January 2010 to December 2016. The subjects were divided into UIP (n = 86) and P-UIP group (n = 21) based on chest HRCT. Continuous variables were analyzed using Student’s t test or Mann-Whitney U test. Categorical variables were analyzed using χ2 test. Log-rank test was used for the survival analysis. Cox proportional models evaluated the risk factors for AE occurrence and survival.@*Results@#The male, older patients, previous N-acetylcysteine use, elevated white blood cell (WBC) counts, and microbiology infection were more common in the UIP group than the P-UIP group (χ2= 13.567, P < 0.001; z = -2.936, P = 0.003; χ2 = 5.901, P = 0.015; t = 2.048, P = 0.043; χ2 = 10.297, P = 0.036, respectively). The percentage of AE with UIP pattern in idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP) was significantly higher than P-UIP pattern (χ2 = 40.011, P < 0.001). Smoking was the risk factor for AE within 6 months after IPF diagnosis in the UIP group. The cumulative proportion survival of 30-days was significantly higher in the UIP group compared with the P-UIP group (χ2 = 5.489, P = 0.019) despite of the similar overall survival in the two groups. Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated WBC count, partial pressure of oxygen in artery (PaO2)/fractional concentration of inspired oxygen (FiO2), and computed tomography (CT) score were the independent predictors for survival in the UIP group (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.070, 95% confidential interval [CI]: 1.027-1.114, P = 0.001; HR: 0.992, 95% CI: 0.986–0.997, P = 0.002; and HR: 1.649, 95% CI: 1.253–2.171, P < 0.001, respectively).@*Conclusions@#AE occurrence of UIP patients in IIP was significantly more than P-UIP cases. The short-term survival was better in the UIP group despite of the similar overall survival in the two groups. WBC count, PaO2/FiO2, and CT score were the independent predictors for survival in UIP subjects.

Repairing of palatum durum defects following maxillectomy using nasal septum tissue flap / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To discuss the effect of repairing of palatum durum defects following maxillectomy using nasal septum tissue flap.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Twenty-six patients underwent maxillectomy and the defects were repaired by using full (16 cases) and partial (10 cases) nasal septum tissue flaps.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Twenty-one patients were healed by first intention, recovering swallowing and pronunciation function. Five patients suffered from fistula holes, and 2 healed after dressing while 2 of the other 3 patients healed after second suturing with 1 still got a small fistula hole. Facial deformity include 4 exterior cheek mild concave and 6 complained about unsuited false teeth and no dorsal subsidence was found. The 3, 5, 10 year survival rate was 46.2%, 30.8% and 11.5% respectively.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Repairing defects with nasal septum tissue flap has advantages. Nasal septum can not be invaded easily, and the material can be got with ease, with rich blood supply, being resistant to infection, easy to heal and less chance of leading to fistula holes. With the cartilage of nasal septum as support, facial deformity can be reduced. And the method is worth spreading and exploiting.</p>

Endoscopic maxillary sinus surgery through anterior or posterior nasolacrimal duct approach / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To explore the feasibility and effectiveness of the approaches and methodology of the endoscopic surgery for maxillary sinus lesions through the medial wall of the maxillary sinus.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>From Jun. 2003 to Aug. 2010, endoscopic surgery through anterior or posterior nasolacrimal duct approaches to remove maxillary sinus lesions were conducted in 139 patients. Among them there were 43 cases with inverted papilloma, 63 cases with fungal maxillary sinusitis, 28 cases with maxillary sinus cyst, 3 cases with hemorrhagic necrotic polyps, and 2 cases with osteomas. All patients underwent preoperative CT scans, and patients with inverted papillomas also had MRI tests. Anterior-nasolacrimal canal paths included 3 ways: pyriform aperture, lacrimal bone recess (dissecting nasolacrimal duct or not were 2 subtypes), pyriform aperture-nasolacrimal duct approaches, and 97 patients were treated. Posterior-nasal lacrimal duct paths were also divided into 3 subtypes: the inferior turbinate flip flap, double pedicle inferior turbinate, single pedicle inferior turbinate, and 42 patients were treated. The postoperative effects were observed.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>All lesions were completely removed under endoscope, the nasolacrimal ducts and inferior turbinates were protected, no nasal lacrimal duct injury and inferior turbinate necrosis were found. Postoperative nasal congestion, headache, swelling discomfort, strange odor, dental pain and numbness and other symptoms gradually disappeared. Nine patients felt nasal dryness, and after nasal washing for about 1 month, the symptom gradually disappeared. Patients were followed up for 6 months to 79 months. In case of osteoma, and hemorrhagic and necrotic polyps, no recurrences were found. Apparent edema, hypertrophy of sinus mucosa could be seen during the surgery in all patients with fungal maxillary sinusitis, and the edema gradually disappeared after 3 months or so, with no relapse. Two cases of maxillary sinus cysts were found in other parts of the maxillary sinus 10 months and 18 months after the surgery, but the cysts were small and asymptomatic, so no further management needed, and they were still under follow-up. Three patients, recurred. In 1 case with inverted papilloma, a local lump on the opening were found 17 months after the surgery, and was removed in out-patient department and pathology showed papillary tumor recurrence, no relapse was found 1 year later; 1 patient had recurrence in anterior ethmoid sinus 15 months after operation, total ethmoidectomy was done and no relapse was found in 3 years. One patient had local recurrence in the posterolateral wall of the maxillary sinus 26 months after operation, and the secondary surgery was done via single pedicle inferior turbinate. The papilloma relapsed again after 1 year, an endoscopic Denker surgery was performed, with no recurrence after 18 months of follow-up. Three months after surgery, the maxillary sinus was scar-covered in all cases. Inferior turbinate maintained good shape, compared to those with inferior nasal meatus windowing surgery. Scars were significantly smaller, but no latch or obstruction of drainage were found.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Endoscopic maxillary sinus surgery through anterior or posterior nasolacrimal duct approach can reduce the trauma, fully expose the sinuses, and facilitate postoperative treatment and review with a window. Retained inferior nasal turbinate is helpful to avoid dryness, crusting, headache and other complications due to too much removal of nasal exteral walls.</p>

Effect of hyoid suspension with uvulopalatopharyngoplasty in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To discuss the methodology and therapeutic effect of hyoid suspension in association with uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) in the treatment of severe obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS).</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Sixty-nine patients with severe OSAHS (apnea hyponea index, AHI > 30) were treated with hyoid suspension and UPPP. Sixty-one patients were followed for 6 months (48 of them for 12 months). Polysomnogram (PSG) tests were performed and an Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS) was recorded preoperatively and postoperatively in these patients.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>After the surgery,the snoring of the patients disappeared or was alleviated to varing degrees. Eighteen patients underwent fiberoptic nasopharyngolaryngoscopic examination. Twelve of them showed palatopharyngeal and glossopharyngeal stenosis was improved 6 months after surgery. Six patients showed no change, but had no glossoptosis. Fourteen patients underwent fiberoptic nasopharyngolaryngoscopic examination 1 year after surgery, with no recurrence of the stenosis being found. A decrease of 50% in the AHI was considered effective, and in patients the effective rate was 78.7% (48/61) 6 months after the operation and 75.0% (36/48) 1 year after the operation. The average AHI decreased from 44.8 to 15.1 and 17.2, and the minimum arterial oxygen saturation average increased from 0.512 to 0.880 and 0.730. Matching t tests were utilized and the results of follow-up indicated that there was a significant improvement in the indexes in those cases which could be followed up (P < 0.01). The average of the ESS was 6.7 six months after operation and 7.2 one year after operation, with a significant decrease compared to the preoperative (16.6) data (P < 0.01).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Modified hyoid suspension in association with UPPP has the advantage of a simple operation, short hospitalization and less expense, and the effect of the operation was significant. Patients with palatopharyngeal and glossopharyngeal stenosis should be chosen for this operation.</p>

Characterization of Calreticulin Expression in Mouse Endometrium during Embryo Implantation

Calreticulin (CRT), a Ca2+-binding storage protein and chaperone in the endoplasmic reticulum, modulates cell adhesiveness and integrin-dependent Ca2+ signaling. However, the role of CRT during implantation remains poorly understood. In the present study, we characterized the expression of CRT mRNA and the protein in mouse endometria from pregnancy DI to D7. Real-Time PCR and in situ hybridization results showed that the levels of CRT mRNA in the endometria of pregnant mice were significantly higher than those of non-pregnant mice (P<0.05), and increased gradually from pregnancy DI to D4, reaching the máximum level on D4, followed by a plateau from D4 to D7. Using immunofluorescence histochemistry and western blot, changes of CRT expression in the endometria of pregnant mice were consistent with the expression of CRT mRNA. Furthermore, antisense CRT oligodeoxynucleotide was injected into the uterus horns of pregnant mice (D3) to investígate its effect on embryo implantation. The result showed that the number of implanted embryos markedly decreased in the side of uterine horns receiving antisense CRT oligodeoxynucleotide(í><0.05). These findings suggest that CRT may play an important role in embryo implantation in mice.

Clinical application of reverse island flap based on tibial planter digital artery / 中华整形外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To study the therapeutic effect of reverse island flap based on tibial plantar digital artery for soft tissue defect at the distal end of first toe.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>18 cases with soft tissue defect at the distal end of first toe were treated with reverse island flap based on tibial plantar digital artery.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The patients were followed up for 6 to approximately 12 months (mean 9.5 months). All the flaps survived completely with good functional and cosmetic results.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>The reversed island flap based on tibial plantar digital artery has a reliable blood supply and is adjacent to the recipient area. It is practical and suitable for soft tissue defect at the distal end of first toe.</p>

Lipid signal in evaluation of intracranial meningiomas / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>Using magnetic resonance imaging, diagnosis of malignant meningioma from benign meningioma with atypical features is uncertain. We evaluated the value of lipid signal in differentiating intracranial meningiomas.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>1H-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) using a point resolved spectroscopy (TR/TE 1000/144 ms) sequences were performed on 34 patients on a 3.0 T scanner. Lipid peak located at 1.3 ppm was evaluated. MRS data from these tumours were compared with histopathological findings (including hematoxylin and eosin staining and KP-1 staining).</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Twenty-nine meningiomas were histologically benign (eleven meningothelial, thirteen fibrous, four transitional and one microcystic), three were atypical, and two were anaplastic. Lipid signal was detected in ten cases: two anaplastic, three atypical, two fibrous and three meningothelial meningiomas. All voxels with lipid peak in the spectrum from the tumour were evaluated. With creatinine peak in the normal white matter chosen as internal standard, lipid/creatinine ratios of anaplastic, atypical and benign meningiomas were 0.844 +/- 0.027 (range from 0.725 to 0.994), 0.465 +/- 0.023 (range from 0.239 to 0.724), and 0.373 +/- 0.016 (range from 0.172 to 0.571) respectively. Highly significant differences were noted between anaplastic and the other two subtypes. Patchy necrosis was observed in anaplastic meningioma, while focal necrosis was noted in atypical meningioma with HE stain. However, no necrosis was found in benign group. KP-1 stain demonstrated histocytes containing lipids in the necrotic region of anaplastic and atypical meningioma.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The lipid signal at 1.3 ppm is a useful marker in evaluating the malignancy of intracranial meningiomas, especially in the differential diagnosis of anaplastic meningioma.</p>

Diagnostic value of contrast-enhanced fluid-attenuated inversion-recovery MRI for intracranial tumors in comparison with post-contrast T1W spin-echo MRI / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>Contrast-enhanced fluid-attenuated inversion-recovery (FLAIR) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been reported to have higher sensitivity for detecting leptomeningeal disease compared with contrast-enhanced T1-weighted MRI (CE T1WI). However, currently there are no studies showing the potential value of clinical applications of contrast-enhanced FLAIR (CE FLAIR) sequence in diagnosing intracranial tumors in a larger group of patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of CE FLAIR in comparison with CE T1WI for intracranial tumors and to provide more information for clinical diagnosis and therapy.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>One hundred and four consecutive cases of intracranial tumors referred for CE brain MRI were analyzed with regard to FLAIR and T1WI pre- and post-administration of Gd-DTPA. The CE FLAIR and CE T1WI were evaluated independently by two radiologists for the number of examinations with one or more enhanced lesions, the number and location of enhanced lesions per examination, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-enhancement ratio (CER) of lesions, as well as the size and extent of the enhanced lesions.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>In 98 of 104 cases, enhanced lesions were seen both on the FLAIR and T1W images. More lesions were seen on CE T1WI (n = 120) than those on CE FLAIR sequence (n = 117), but no differences of statistical significance were found between the two sequences (P > 0.05). Four lesions were revealed only on the CE FLAIR images whereas 7 lesions were only found on CE T1WI. Enhanced lesions located in the cerebral hemisphere or the forth ventricle were revealed much more on CE T1WI than on CE FLAIR images. However, CE FLAIR images may be useful in showing superficial abnormalities and those located in the sulcus or lateral ventricle. The CER and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) on CE T1WI was significantly higher (t = 7.10, P = 0.00; t = 9.67, P = 0.00, respectively), but grey matter/white matter contrast was lower (t = 2.46, P = 0.02) than those on CE FLAIR images. The SNR did not show any statistically significant difference between the two sequences (t = 1.1, P = 0.27). The size and extent of lesions on the CE FLAIR images were significantly larger than those on CE T1WI (t = 4.13, P = 0.00).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>CE FLAIR and CE T1WI may complement each other in showing intracranial tumors and the CE FLAIR sequence should be selected as a routine MRI sequence.</p>

Effect analysis of surgery for treating abnormal styloid process / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To analyze the relationship between pharyngeal paraesthesia and abnormal styloid process, and to evaluate the surgery outcome.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>One hundred and four patients with styloid process abnormality, especially those with pharyngeal paraesthesia were studied preoperatively and postoperatively.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Among 104 patients who complained about foreign body sensation of the pharynx and a sore throat, after partial removal of styloid process, 71.2% (74/104) cured (symptoms disappeared), 12.5% (13/104) improved, while 16.3% (17/104) had no improvement. The responding rate was 83.7% (87/104).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Not all abnormality of styloid process subjects would have pharyngeal paraesthesia, so for this kind of cases a more comprehensive analysis is necessary. Surgery via mouth is preferable.</p>

Effects of polychlorinated biphenyl on bcl-2 and TGFbeta1 expression in rat testes / 中华男科学杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To study the effects of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) on bcl-2 and TGFbeta1 expression in rat testes.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Forty male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups at random: Group A (normal control), Group B (fed on 10(-8) mol/L PBC), Group C (feb on 10(-7) mol/L) and Group D (feb on 10(-6) mol/L). After three months, all the rats were killed, the animal model established, and observations made on the expression of bcl2 and TGFbeta1 in the rat testis using the optical microscope and immunohistochemical techniques.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The damage to the structure of the testis was related to the dosage of PCB: the higher the dodage, the more serious the damage. PCB induced the expression of bcl-2 and TGFbeta1. The TGFbeta1 expression was significantly higher in the highest dosage group than in others (P < 0.01 ), and the bcl-2 expression was dramatically higher in Group C than in other groups (P < 0.01).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>PCB can cause injury in rat testes.</p>

Effects of proanthocyanidins on contractile activity of aortic smooth muscle and platelet aggregation in experimental animals / 中国应用生理学杂志

<p><b>AIM</b>To study effects of proanthocyanidins (PA) on contractile activity of isolated aortic smooth muscle in rats and rabbit platelet aggregation.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Isolated rat aortic muscle rings were adopted to observe the effects of PA on their contraction induced by noradrenaline (NA) or KCl, and their tensions were recorded by BL-310 experimental system of biological function. Rabbit platelet aggregation induced by arachidonic acid (AA), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), and collagen (Coll) was assayed by turbidimetry.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>PA could significantly inhibit the contraction induced by NA (10(-6) mol/L), low the concentration-response curves of NA and the maximal response on the endothelium-intact or endothelium-denuded aortic rings. But PA couldn't relax the aortic rings precontracted with KCl and had no influence on rabbit platelet aggregation induced by AA, ADP, and Coll.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>PA can inhibit the contraction induced by NA but not by KCl on isolated rat aortic rings. It also has no influence on rabbit platelet aggregation.</p>

Tagging and mapping of QTLs controlling lint yield and yield components in upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) using SSR and RAPD markers / 生物工程学报

Using interval mapping and marker simple regression methods, the QTLs of yield and its components in (Simian 3 x TM-1) F2 and F2:3, were tagged and Mapped with 39 SSR and 10 RAPD markers having polymorphism between parents screened from 301 pair SSR primers and 1040 RAPD primers. Simian 3 is being grown extensively in Yangtze River cotton-growing valley characterized as high productivity with more bolls and higher lint percent, whereas TM-1, Genetic standard in Upland cotton with more heavy boll weight. In the present report, two QTLs controlling boll size with 18.2% and 21.0% phenotype variance explained in F2:3 generation, one QTL controlling lint percent with 24.9% phenotype variance explained in F2 generation and 5.9% in F2:3 generation and one QTL controlling 100-seed weight with 15.6% phenotype variance explained in F2:3 generation were mapped in Chromosome 9. Additionally, another QTL responsible for 100-seed weight was identified and mapped at the same position in Chromosome 9 in F2:3 generation. It is worth for further to be studied whether it is one QTL for pleiotrophism or two closely linked QTLs. The molecular markers mapped and tagged closely with main QTLs of yield traits in this paper can be used for MAS in cotton high-yield breeding program.