Proposing a novel molecular subtyping scheme for predicting distant recurrence-free survival in breast cancer post-neoadjuvant chemotherapy with close correlation to metabolism and senescence.

Background: High relapse rates remain a clinical challenge in the management of breast cancer (BC), with distant recurrence being a major driver of patient deterioration. To optimize the surveillance regimen for distant recurrence after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC), we conducted a comprehensive analysis using bioinformatics and machine learning approaches. Materials and methods: Microarray data were retrieved from the GEO database, and differential expression analysis was performed with the R package 'Limma'. We used the Metascape tool for enrichment analyses, and 'WGCNA' was utilized to establish co-expression networks, selecting the soft threshold power with the 'pickSoftThreshold' algorithm. We integrated ten machine learning algorithms and 101 algorithm combinations to identify key genes associated with distant recurrence in BC. Unsupervised clustering was performed with the R package 'ConsensusCluster Plus'. To further screen the key gene signature of residual cancer burden (RCB), multiple knockdown studies were analyzed with the Genetic Perturbation Similarity Analysis (GPSA) database. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis was conducted through the Tumour Immune Single-cell Hub (TISCH) database, and the XSum algorithm was used to screen candidate small molecule drugs based on the Connectivity Map (CMAP) database. Molecular docking processes were conducted using Schrodinger software. GMT files containing gene sets associated with metabolism and senescence were obtained from GSEA MutSigDB database. The GSVA score for each gene set across diverse samples was computed using the ssGSEA function implemented in the GSVA package. Results: Our analysis, which combined Limma, WGCNA, and machine learning approaches, identified 16 RCB-relevant gene signatures influencing distant recurrence-free survival (DRFS) in BC patients following NAC. We then screened GATA3 as the key gene signature of high RCB index using GPSA analysis. A novel molecular subtyping scheme was developed to divide patients into two clusters (C1 and C2) with different distant recurrence risks. This molecular subtyping scheme was found to be closely associated with tumor metabolism and cellular senescence. Patients in cluster C2 had a poorer DRFS than those in cluster C1 (HR: 4.04; 95% CI: 2.60-6.29; log-rank test p < 0.0001). High GATA3 expression, high levels of resting mast cell infiltration, and a high proportion of estrogen receptor (ER)-positive patients contributed to better DRFS in cluster C1. We established a nomogram based on the N stage, RCB class, and molecular subtyping. The ROC curve for 5-year DRFS showed excellent predictive value (AUC=0.91, 95% CI: 0.95-0.86), with a C-index of 0.85 (95% CI: 0.81-0.90). Entinostat was identified as a potential small molecule compound to reverse high RCB after NAC. We also provided a comprehensive review of the EDCs exposures that potentially impact the effectiveness of NAC among BC patients. Conclusion: This study established a molecular classification scheme associated with tumor metabolism and cancer cell senescence to predict RCB and DRFS in BC patients after NAC. Furthermore, GATA3 was identified and validated as a key gene associated with BC recurrence.

Application of symptom-based mind mapping combined with PBL teaching method in emergency trauma standardized resident training in MDT model.

Explore the feasibility and effectiveness of accepting mind mapping combined with problem-based learning (PBL) teaching method in the standardized training of emergency surgery residents in the multi-disciplinary team (MDT) model of emergency trauma. Eighty-nine doctors under training who rotated in the Department of Emergency Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University from January 2021 to January 2022 were selected as the study subjects, and randomly divided into a group receiving mind mapping combined with PBL teaching and a group receiving traditional lecture-based learning teaching. Mini-clinical evaluation exercise (Mini-CEX), direct observation of procedural skills (DOPS), teaching adherence, and satisfaction assessments were completed at the time of discharge from the department. There were no significant differences between the observation and control group trainees in terms of gender, age, education, and entry grades. Both groups of doctors were better able to participate in their respective teaching modes and made significant progress. The participants in the observation group had significantly higher Mini-CEX, DOPS, and teaching satisfaction scores than the control group (P < .05). Under the MDT model of emergency trauma, the combination of mind mapping and PBL teaching can improve the comprehensive clinical ability of the trainees more than participating in the traditional lecture-based learning teaching, which is worth promoting and implementing in the clinical standardized training.

Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy in severe male factor infertility: protocol for a multicenter randomised controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Conventional intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is a widely used treatment for couples with severe male infertility. However, there are controversies regarding the selection and the damage to gametes during the ICSI procedure. Although preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A) can give genetic information about embryos for transfer and improve fertility rate, and it is widely used in women with recurrent spontaneous abortion or advanced age, PGT-A is not only more expensive but also has unclear effectiveness with respect to the improvement of fertility rate among couples with severe male infertility. High-quality, well-powered randomised clinical trials (RCTs) comparing ICSI+PGT-A and ICSI are lacking. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This is a protocol for a multicenter, open-label RCT in four reproductive medical centers qualified for PGT technique in China. We will study couples with severe male infertility scheduled for their fertility treatment. After the blastocyst culture, eligible participants are randomised to the ICSI+PGT-A group or the conventional ICSI group in a 1:1 ratio. Other assisted reproductive procedures are similar and parallel between the two groups. The primary outcome will be live birth rate and cumulative live-birth rate . Secondary outcomes will be embryo implantation rate, biochemical pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy rate, spontaneous abortion rate, ongoing pregnancy rate, preterm birth rate, fetal chromosomal abnormality rate, birth defect rate and treatment complications. To demonstrate or refute a difference between the two groups, we plan to include 188 participants in each group; taking consideration of 20% of dropout, the total target sample size is 450. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval was obtained from International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital of Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical Science Research Ethics Committee (GKLW2016-16). Informed consent will be obtained from each participant. The findings will be disseminated to the public through conference presentations and publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02941965.

The Impact of Gestational Weight Gain on the Risks of Adverse Maternal and Infant Outcomes among Normal BMI Women with High Triglyceride Levels during Early Pregnancy.

A high maternal triglyceride (mTG) level during early pregnancy is linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes, but the use of specific interventions has been met with limited success. A retrospective cohort study was designed to investigate the impact of gestational weight gain (GWG) on the relationship between high levels of mTG and adverse pregnancy outcomes in normal early pregnancy body mass index (BMI) women. The patients included 39,665 women with normal BMI who had a singleton pregnancy and underwent serum lipids screening during early pregnancy. The main outcomes were adverse pregnancy outcomes, including gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, cesarean delivery, preterm birth, and large or small size for gestational age (LGA or SGA) at birth. As a result, the high mTG (≥2.05mM) group had increased risks for gestational hypertension ((Adjusted odds ratio (AOR), 1.80; 95% CI, 1.46 to 2.24)), preeclampsia (1.70; 1.38 to 2.11), gestational diabetes (2.50; 2.26 to 2.76), cesarean delivery (1.22; 1.13 to 1.32), preterm birth (1.42, 1.21 to 1.66), and LGA (1.49, 1.33 to 1.68) compared to the low mTG group, after adjustment for potential confounding factors. Additionally, the risks of any adverse outcome were higher in each GWG subgroup among women with high mTG than those in the low mTG group. High mTG augmented risks of gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, preterm birth, and LGA among women with 50th or greater percentile of GWG. Interestingly, among women who gained less than the 50th percentile of GWG subgroups, there was no relationship between high mTG level and risks for those pregnancy outcomes when compared to low mTG women. Therefore, weight control and staying below 50th centile of the suggested GWG according to gestational age can diminish the increased risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes caused by high mTG during early pregnancy.

[Meta-analysis of the Effects of Metal Mining on Soil Heavy Metal Concentrations in Southwest China].

Metal mining is one of the main contributors of soil heavy metals. Previous studies examining the impact of metal mining on surrounding soil have mainly focused on one or a few metal mining areas. However, such studies cannot effectively inform the management of heavy metal pollution in soil at an inter-provincial scale. As part of this study, literature was collected on soil heavy metals (i.e., As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn) affected by metal mining in regions of Southwest China (i.e., Yunnan Province, Sichuan Province, Guizhou Province, Chongqing Municipality, and Tibet Autonomous Region); Next, the impact of metal mining on the soil concentrations of these metals was quantified through meta-analysis, and the relationships between the selected factors (i.e., different sub-regions, metal minerals, and land-use types) and soil heavy metal concentrations were explored. Finally, the literature data was tested for publication bias. The results showed that metal mining in Southwest China has significantly increased the concentrations of heavy metals in topsoil. The different metals were ranked according to their weight effect sizes (ES+) in the following order Cd > Pb > Hg > Zn > As > Cu > Ni > Cr. Metal mining in both Sichuan and Yunnan led to higher effect sizes of soil Cd (ES+Sichuan=4.16, ES+Yunnan=3.20) and Pb (ES+Sichuan=3.47, ES+Yunnan=2.54) than those of the other heavy metals, while metal mining in Guizhou led to a higher effect size of soil Hg (ES+=2.80). The effect size of metal mining on soil heavy metals was higher in cultivated soil (ES+=1.42) than in forested soil (ES+=0.50). The mining of lead-zinc and tin significantly increased the concentrations of soil Cd, Pb, and Zn, and the mining of copper significantly increased the concentrations of soil Cu, Cd, and Pb. Of the investigated soil heavy metals in Southwest China, Pb and Zn showed slight potential publication biases (P<0.05). The above results can provide more effective information for the environmental protection of soil in metal mining areas of Southwest China.

[Preparation and evaluation of four kinds of mixed essential oil liposomes in Jieyu Anshen Formula].

In order to increase the stability and solubility of essential oil in Jieyu Anshen Formula, this study was to prepare the essential oil into liposomes. In this experiment, the method for the determination of encapsulation efficiency of liposomes was established by ultraviolet spectrophotometer and dextran gel column. The encapsulation efficiency and particle size of liposomes were used as evaluation indexes for single factor investigation and Box-Behnken design-response surface method was used to optimize the design. Then the optimal formulation of volatile oil liposome was characterized using methyleugenol, elemin, ß-asarone and α-asarone as index components. Finally, the in vitro transdermal properties of liposomes were studied by modified Franz diffusion cell. The results showed that the concentration of lecithin, the mass ratio of lecithin to volatile oil, and the stirring speed were the three most significant factors affecting the liposome preparation. The optimum formulation of volatile oil liposome was as follows: the concentration of lecithin was 7 g·L~(-1); mass ratio of lecithin to volatile oil was 5∶1; and the stirring speed was 330 r·min~(-1). Under such conditions, the prepared liposomes had blue emulsion light, good fluidity, half translucent, with particle size of(102.6±0.35) nm, Zeta potential of(-17.8±0.306) mV, permeability of(1.67±1.01)%, and stable property if liposome was stored at 4 ℃. 24 h after percutaneous administration, the cumulative osmotic capacity per unit time was(30.485 2±1.238 9),(34.794 8±0.928 3),(26.677 1±1.171 7),(3.066 2±0.175 3) µg·cm~(-2)respectively for methyleugenol, elemin, ß-asarone and α-asarone. In vitro transdermal behaviors of methyleugenol, elemin, ß-asarone and α-asarone in liposomes were all consistent with Higuchi equation. The prepared volatile oil liposomes met the relevant quality requirements, providing a reference for further research on preparation of multi-component Chinese medicine essential oil liposomes.

The Ankyrin Repeat Domain 49 (ANKRD49) Augments Autophagy of Serum-Starved GC-1 Cells through the NF-κB Pathway.

The ankyrin repeat domain 49 (ANKRD49) is an evolutionarily conserved protein highly expressed in testes. However, the function of ANKRD49 in spermatogenesis is unknown. In this study, we found that ANKRD49 resides primarily in nucleus of spermatogonia, spermatocytes and round spermatids. ANKRD49 overexpression augments starvation-induced autophagy in male germ GC-1 cells whereas shRNA knockdown of ANKRD49 attenuates the autophagy. Inhibition of NF-κB pathway by its inhibitors or p65 siRNA prevents the ANKRD49-dependent autophagy augmentation, demonstrating that ANKRD49 enhances autophagy via NF-κB pathway. Our findings suggest that ANKRD49 plays an important role in spermatogenesis via promotion of autophagy-dependent survival.

Talin-1 correlates with reduced invasion and migration in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells.

BACKGROUND: Talin-1 is a cytoskeleton protein that participates in cell migration and plays a role in tumor formation, migration, and metastasis in different types of cancer. Chinese investigators have observed that the levels of Talin-1 protein and mRNA expression in HCC tissues are significantly lower than in the adjacent non-cancerous tissue. However, Japanese investigators have reported that Talin-1 is upregulated in HCC. Tln2 as homologous gene of Tln-1, which encodes a very similar protein, but the role of Talin-2 is very little known in primary liver cancer (PLC). We investigated whether the expression of Talin-1 in PLC may be associated with the histological subtype as well as the role of Talin-1 in tumor cell invasion and migration using human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We measured the mRNA expression levels of Talin-1 and Talin-2 in five human liver cancer cell lines and normal human liver cell (LO2 cell line) by real-time PCR and the protein expression levels of Talin-1 by Western blot. Migration and invasion of the cells were assessed using transwell assays and cell scratch experiments, respectively, and proliferation was assessed by soft AGAR colony formation. RESULTS: Talin-1 and Talin-2 expression differed significantly between the five human liver cancer cell lines and LO2 cell line (p<0.05). Compared with the LO2 cell line, the invasion and migration capabilities of the five cancer cell lines differed significantly (p<0.05). Similarly, the colony-forming ability differed (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: High levels of Talin-1 expression are correlated with reduced invasion and migration as well as decreased malignancy in human liver cancer cell lines; the suppression of Talin-1 promotes invasion and migration. In addition, Talin-2 may be correlated with invasion and migration in human hepatocellular carcinoma.

National representation in the plastic and reconstructive surgery literature: a bibliometric analysis of highly cited journals.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, significant growth has been observed in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery. However, the national productivity to the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery remains unknown. We therefore intended to reveal national contributions in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery. METHODS: Articles published in the 6 highly cited journals in plastic and reconstructive surgery in 2005-2009 were retrieved from the Medline and Web of Science. The number of total articles, the per capita numbers, 5-year impact factors (5y-IF), and citations were tabulated to assess the contribution of different countries. RESULTS: A total number of 5745 articles were published in the 6 journals from 2005 to 2009 worldwide. North America, West Europe, and East Asia were the most productive regions. High-income countries published 79.72% of the total articles. United States (USA) published most of the articles during 2005 to 2009 (2015/5745, 35.07%), followed by United Kingdom, Turkey, Japan, and China. Besides, USA also had the highest total 5y-IF (5010.76), the highest mean 5y-IF (2.49), and the highest total citations (11,788). When normalized to population size, Sweden had the highest number of articles per million persons (12.26), followed by Switzerland (8.02) and Netherlands (7.77). CONCLUSIONS: USA is the most productive country in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery. When normalized to population size, some European countries might be more productive.

Classic citations in main plastic and reconstructive surgery journals.

BACKGROUND: The number of citations of an article in scientific journals reflects its impact on a biomedical specialty and its recognition in the scientific community. In this study, we identified and analyzed the 100 most highly cited articles published between 1971 and 2011 in journals pertaining to plastic and reconstructive surgery research. METHODS: We selected 6 high-impact journals for literature search in the database of the Science Citation Index (1971 to 2011). We identified the 100 most frequently cited articles published in these journals, and analyzed them. RESULTS: The most cited article received 1007 citations and the least cited article received 165 citations, with a mean of 274 citations per article. These citation classics were published in 5 high-impact journals, led by Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (76 articles). The articles came from 17 countries, with the United States producing 57 articles. Sixty-two institutions produced these 100 top-cited articles, led by Royal Mountain Hospital, University of Melbourne (7 articles). Twenty-three authors published 2 or more of the top-cited articles, led by Taylor GI who authored 10 classic papers. CONCLUSIONS: This analysis of the top citation classics allows for the recognition of major advances and supplies a historic perspective on the progress of plastic and reconstructive surgery research.

Facial reanimation by one-stage microneurovascular free abductor hallucis muscle transplantation: personal experience and long-term outcomes.

BACKGROUND: In 1990, Jiang Hua introduced a new method using one-stage reconstruction with free abductor hallucis muscle transfer for dynamic reanimation of established unilateral facial paralysis. The authors present their experience with this procedure and analyze the postoperative complications and long-term functional and aesthetic outcomes. METHODS: From March of 1990 to March of 2010, 45 patients underwent the free abductor hallucis muscle transfer procedure in the authors' department. Forty-one were followed up for 54.6 months (range, 28 months to 17 years). The Toronto Facial Grading System and Facial Nerve Function Index were used to evaluate facial nerve function at 2 years after surgery and last follow-up. Complications and function of the donor foot were analyzed. RESULTS: No postoperative mortality was found. Complications occurred in four of 41 patients, including muscle loss, infection, hematoma, and hypertrophic scar. The others obtained satisfactory symmetric faces in the static state and in voluntary contraction of the transferred muscles. Mean values for the Toronto Facial Grading System (50.6±7.8) and the Facial Nerve Function Index (65.7±11.4 percent) were significantly higher at 2 years postoperatively in comparison with preoperative status (21.2±5.3 and 19.5±3.6 percent, respectively) (p<0.05). Long-term outcomes (Toronto Facial Grading System, 54.8±6.9; Facial Nerve Function Index, 79.4±9.6 percent) were awarded higher values than early outcomes shown at 2 years postoperatively (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Free abductor hallucis muscle transfer is safe and effective in dynamic reanimation of longstanding unilateral facial paralysis. Favorable long-term results demonstrate that the authors' technique is an alternative method for facial reanimation. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.

Two methods can simultaneously display both intramuscular nerves and blood vessels.

BACKGROUND: The arrangement and relationship of intramuscular nerves and blood vessels are critical to clinical physicians, but the majority of previous studies could not reflect them precisely. METHODS: In method 1, after rabbits were perfused with barium sulfate liquid silica gel, the specimen muscle was isolated and subjected to Sihler staining. The specimen muscles then underwent optical photography and molybdenum target radiography. The obtained photograph and the radiograph were then overlapped together to draw a map of intramuscular nerves and blood vessels. In method 2, after rabbits and child cadavers were perfused with semitransparent red liquid silica gel, the specimen muscle was isolated and subjected to Sihler staining. Finally, the specimen muscles were placed on an x-ray film viewer for photography. RESULTS: Both methods had ideal outcomes. Through digital subtraction angiography, a distribution map of intramuscular nerves and blood vessels could be obtained in method 1, whereas in the photographs taken through method 2, the intramuscular nerves were counterstained with dark blue and the intramuscular blood vessels were stained red, which was more precise and direct. In method 2, specimens could be made into stereoscopic models. CONCLUSIONS: These two methods that can simultaneously display intramuscular nerves and blood vessels have been significantly improved and lead to a good result. They also have their own advantages. When a muscle studied is small or flat, method 2 is recommended because of its conciseness and convenience. If the muscle is large, method 1 is applicable.

Growing trend of China's contribution to the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery: a 10-year study of the literature.

BACKGROUND: In the past decade, plastic and reconstructive surgery in China has achieved great advances. However, the scientific publications in plastic and reconstructive surgery in the major regions of China-Mainland, Hong Kong, and Taiwan are unknown. We therefore intended to reveal the contribution of articles from Chinese authors to the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery. METHODS: Articles published in the 6 journals in plastic and reconstructive surgery originating from Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan in 2000 to 2009 were retrieved from the PubMed database and Journal Citation Reports. The number of total articles, 5-year impact factors (5 years-IF), and citations were tabulated to assess both the quantity and quality of research arising from China. RESULTS: From 2000 to 2009, there were 568 articles from China, including 225 from Mainland China, 317 from Taiwan, and 26 from Hong Kong. The annual total numbers of articles from the 3 Chinese regions increased gradually between 2000 and 2009 (from 40 to 100). From 2007, the number of articles published from Mainland China exceeded Taiwan. Taiwan had the highest accumulated 5 years-IFs, average 5 years-IF, total citations, and average citations of each article. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery was the most popular journal in China. CONCLUSIONS: The number of articles published from Chinese authors increased markedly from 2000 to 2009, particularly from Mainland China, since 2004.

Laparoscope-assisted creation of a neovagina using pedicled ileum segment transfer.

BACKGROUND: To present our experience of vaginal reconstruction with the use of a pedicled ileum segment and laparoscope assistance, and to analyze its complications and long-term anatomic and functional results. METHODS: The abdominal and perineal approaches were performed simultaneously with the patient in a special position. Under the guidance of laparoscopy, the target ileal segment was harvested and transposed down to the perineum through an artificial tunnel between the bladder and the rectum. A silicon vaginal tutor was introduced into the vaginal cavity and maintained all day long for 2-3 months. The complications and the anatomical and functional results were summarized and analyzed. RESULTS: From February 2002 to June 2010, 82 patients underwent laparoscope-assisted total vaginal reconstruction with a pedicled ileum segment at our department. Complications developed in 16 of 82 patients, including rectum and/or bladder injury during operation, acute renal failure, delayed healing of the ileocutaneous anastomosis, introital stenosis, and partial or complete intestinal obstruction. The abdominal cutaneous scar was acceptable after the surgery. The vulva was not altered, which was especially significant for patients with congenital vaginal atresia. The neovagina was patent, soft, moist, and flexible. The mean width and depth of the neovagina at the latest postoperative visit measured 3.2 and 15 cm, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The favorable long-term anatomical and functional results demonstrate that our technique is ideal for patients with congenital vaginal atresia or patients who need secondary vaginal reconstruction. For the primary male-to-female transsexuals or hermaphrodites, it can be an alternative method for vaginal construction.

Talin1, a valuable marker for diagnosis and prognostic assessment of human hepatocelluar carcinomas.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most lethal and prevalent cancers in the human population. Despite its significance, there is only limited understanding of pathological mechanisms and therapeutic options. Talin1, a focal adhesion complex protein that is required for cell adhesion and motility, regulates integrin interactions with extracellular matrix (ECM). In the present study, we aimed to study the possible role of Talin1 in diagnosis and prognosis of HCC. METHODS: Expression of Talin1 protein was detected in normal liver tissues (n=10), HCC tissues (n=32) and adjacent non-cancerous tissues (n=32) by immunohistochemistry and real time PCR. RESULTS: While Talin1 was observed in all tissues, the protein and mRNA expression of Talin1 in HCC tissues was significantly lower than that in the adjacent non-cancerous tissues and normal liver tissues(P<0.05). In addition, the expression of Talin1 in HCCs was significantly correlated with pathological differentiation, integrity of the tumor capsule, portal vein tumor thrombus and tumor size (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Talin1 is possibly involved in the process of the carcinogenesis, infiltration and metastasis of HCC and has potential as a marker for diagnosis and prognostic assessment.

[Experimental research on anti-respiratory syncytial virus effect in vitro of earthworm coelomic fluid].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the antivirus function in vitro of earthworm coelomic fluid (ECF) by researching its effect on inhibiting respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). METHODS: By the method of Hep-2 cell culture and using ribavirin as a positive control, the anti-RSV effect of ECF was investigated by observing cytopathic effect (CPE) with MTT colorimetric assay. RESULTS: In Hep-2 cells, the CC50 of ECF and ribavirin were 3.11 mg/ml and 1.35 mg/ml separately. In the experiment of ECF directly killing RSV, the IC50 of ECF was 184.1 microg/ml, SI was 16.87; In the experiment of ECF preventing RSV invasion, no antiviral function of ECF within the experimental concentration range was observed; In the experiment of ECF inhibiting RSV replication, the IC50 of ECF was 1555. 8 microg/ml, SI was 1.99. CONCLUSION: ECF couldn't prevent virus from invading into host cell, but showed direct killing-virus function and inhibition of the virus replication.

Occurrence of brackish water phytoplankton species at a closed coral reef in Nansha Islands, South China Sea.

The phytoplankton assemblage of Zhubi Reef, a closed coral reef in Nansha Islands (South China Sea, SCS) was studied in June 2007. A total of 92 species belonging to 53 genera and four phyla have been identified. The dominant taxa in the lagoon were the diatom Chaetoceros and cyanobacteria Nostoc and Microcystis, while in reef flats were cyanobacteria Trichodesmium erythraeum, dinoflagellates Gymnodinium and Prorocentrum. The species richness and diversity were consistently lower in the lagoon than in reef flats. Classification and nMDS ordination also revealed significant dissimilarity in phytoplankton community structure between the reef flat and lagoon, with statistical difference in species composition and abundance between them (ANOSIM, p=0.025). Nutrient concentrations also spatially varied, with ammonium-enrichment in the lagoon, while high Si-concentration existed in reef flat areas. Both nutrient levels and currents in SCS may play important roles in determining the composition and distribution of microalgae in Zhubi Reef and SCS.

Hyperbaric oxygen preconditioning reduces the incidence of decompression sickness in rats via nitric oxide.

Divers are at risk of decompression sickness (DCS) when the ambient pressure decrease exceeds a critical threshold. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) preconditioning has been used to prevent various injuries, but the protective effect on DCS has not been well explored. To investigate the prophylactic effect of HBO2 on DCS, rats were pretreated with HBO2 (250 kPa-60 minutes) (all the pressures described here are absolute pressure) for 18 hours before a simulated air dive (700 kPa-100 minutes) with fast decompression to the surface at the rate of 200 kPa/min (n=33). During the following 30 minutes, the rats walked in a 3 m/minute rotating cage and were monitored for signs of DCS. The control rats were pretreated with normobaric air (n=30), normoxic hyperbaric nitrox (250 kPa, 8.4% O2) (n=13), or N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) 30 minutes before HBO2 exposure (n=13). Nitric oxide (NO) levels were recorded immediately and 18 hours after HBO2 exposure in the brain and spinal cord. The incidence of DCS in rats pretreated with HBO2 was 30.3%, which was significantly lower than those treated with normobaric air (63.3%) (p<0.05) or hyperbaric nitrox (61.5%) (p<0.05). The onset time of DCS of the rats pretreated with HBO2 was significantly delayed compared with those treated with air (p<0.05). L-NAME nullified the HBO2 preconditioning effect. HBO2 increased NO level in the rat brain and spinal cord right after exposure; this effect was inhibited by L-NAME. Taken together, HBO2 preconditioning reduced the incidence of DCS in rats, and NO was involved in the prophylactic effect.

Intramuscular innervations of muscle flaps that are commonly used in clinical settings.

PURPOSE: Abductor hallucis, latissimus dorsi, gracilis, rectus abdominis, sartorius and pectoralis minor are muscle flaps that are commonly used in clinic, but their intramuscular innervation has seldom been systematically investigated. METHODS: Five Chinese fresh human cadavers were included in the study and abductor hallucis, latissimus dorsi, gracilis, rectus abdominis, sartorius and pectoralis muscles were dissected. After gross anatomy measurement, the specimens were then stained by Sihler's staining technique. Intramuscular innervation was observed and the number as well as distribution was recorded. RESULTS: Intramuscular nerves were clearly visualized by Sihler's staining technique. Based on the shape and muscle-tendon morphology, Lim et al. in Muscle Nerve 29:523-530, 2004 grouped the muscles into trapezoidal-shaped (type I), spindle-shaped (type II), and combination-shaped (type III). According to Lim's study the abductor hallucis was a type IIb muscle and was divided into two compartments by the distal tendon. Latissimus dorsi was a type I muscle, divided into 3-4 compartments by intramuscular nerve branches. Gracilis was a type IIa muscle and the distal part was divided into two compartments by intramuscular nerve branches. Rectus abdominis was a type III muscle and the four bellies comprised four compartments, each of which could be designated as a subunit. Sartorius was a type II muscle and it could be divided into 2-3 compartments along the long axis. Pectoralis minor was a type I muscle that was divided into two compartments by extramuscular terminal nerves. CONCLUSIONS: The six muscles are divided into several compartments by the tendon or nerve branches, and all of them make good donor tissue for muscle compartment transfer in reconstructive surgery.