Pancreatic microcirculatory disturbance plays an importantrole in the pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis, and itinvolves a series of changes including vasoconstriction,ischaemia, increased vascular permeability, impai...Pancreatic microcirculatory disturbance plays an importantrole in the pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis, and itinvolves a series of changes including vasoconstriction,ischaemia, increased vascular permeability, impairment ofnutritive tissue perfusion, ischaemia/reperfusion, leukocyteadherence, hemorrheological changes and impairedlymphatic drainage. Ischaemia possibly acts as an initiatingfactor of pancreatic microcirculatory injury in acutepancreatitis, or as an aggravating/continuing mechanism.The end-artery feature of the intralobular arterioles suggeststhat the pancreatic microcirculation is highly susceptible toischaemia. Various vasoactive mediators, as bradykinin,platelet activating factor, endothelin and nitric oxideparticipate in the development of microcirculatory failure.展开更多
Background Bacteria-induced respiratory infection has been long considered to be the major cause of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease （AECOPD）.Therefore,a clear picture about the distributi...Background Bacteria-induced respiratory infection has been long considered to be the major cause of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease （AECOPD）.Therefore,a clear picture about the distribution and drug-resistance of pathogenic bacteria in the lower airways should be helpful for treatment of the disease.So far,data on this topic among Chinese are lacking.Methods A surveillance study was performed in consecutive patients with AECOPD at five areas in China between October 2006 and April 2008.The sputum from these patients was cultured and isolated for bacteria.Agar dilution method was used to determine the minimal inhibitory concentrations （MICs） of levofloxacin and other 15 antibiotics against these strains.Results Three hundred and fifty-nine pathogenic bacterial strains were isolated among 884 patients with AECOPD.The predominant bacteria were Pseudomonas aeruginosa （21.7%）,Klebsiella pneumoniae （12.3%）,Haemophilus influenzae （14.2%） and Streptococcus pneumoniae （11.7%）,followed by Haemophilus parainfluenzae （9.5%）,Acinetobacter baumannii （7.8%）,Moraxella catarrhalis （6.4%） and Escherichia coli （3.6%）.The majority of bacterial pathogens isolated in this study were susceptible to fluoroquinolones,ceftazidime,cefepime and imipenem.Conclusions Gram-negative bacilli are the leading pathogens in patients with AECOPD in China.Haemophilus parainfluenzae may be one of the most important pathogens in AECOPD.This study provides evidence for local surveillance of AECOPD pathogens and appropriate choice of antimicrobials in China.展开更多
AIM: Somatostatin and its analogues may suppress the growth of various tumor cells. However, the effect of octreotide on growth of gastric adenocarcinoma is still largely unknown. This study was to explore if octreoti...AIM: Somatostatin and its analogues may suppress the growth of various tumor cells. However, the effect of octreotide on growth of gastric adenocarcinoma is still largely unknown. This study was to explore if octreotide could inhibit the growth of gastric adenocarcinoma and its probable mechanisms.METHODS: Proliferation of gastric cancer cell line affected by octreotide was determined by 3H-thymidine incorporation.After xenografts of human gastric cancer were implanted orthotopically in stomach, nude mice were administrated octreotide for 8 weeks. The mRNA of somatostatin receptor in the SGC-7901 cells was detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction technique. Extracellular signalregulated protein kinase and c-Fos in gastric cancer tissues were measured by immunohistochemistry and Western blot.Activator protein-1 binding activity was examined by electrophoretic mobility sift assay.RESULTS: 3H-thymidine incorporation into SGC-7901 cells was significantly decreased by octreotide in a concentration dependent manner. Either size or weight of tumors treated with octreotide was significantly reduced in vivo. The inhibition rate for tumor was 62.3% in octreotide group.The genes of somatostatin receptors 2 and 3 were expressed in SGC-7901 gastric cancer cell lines. Extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase and c-Fos protein level were decreased in gastric adenocarcinoma treated with octreotide. Moreover, fetal calf serum stimulated activator protein-1 binding activity could be suppressed by octreotide potentially.CONCLUSION: Inhibition of sequential molecular events in MAPK pathway may interpret the mechanisms underlying the effect of octreotide on the growth of gastric adenocarcinoma.展开更多
AIM: To assess the possible effect of integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine on severe acute respiratory syndromes.METHODS: The current available randomized controlled trials of integrated tradilJonal Chi...AIM: To assess the possible effect of integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine on severe acute respiratory syndromes.METHODS: The current available randomized controlled trials of integrated tradilJonal Chinese and Western medicine on SARS were identified through systematically searching literature in any languages or any types of publications.Additional studies of gray literature were also collected.The quality of studies was evaluated by two investigators independently based largely on the quality criteria specified CONSORT. Statistical analysis of the results was performed using RevMan 4.2.0 software developed by the Cochrane Collaboration.RESULTS: Six studies (n = 366) fulfilling the inclusion criteria were found, of which the quality of one study was graded as B, the remaining five were graded as C. Two studies were performed with meta-analysis, the other four studies existed some heterogeneity for which meta-analysis could not be performed, a significant effect on lung infiltrate absorption was found in the treatment groups of these two studies [RR 6.68, 95% CI (2.93, 15.24), P<0.01], there was no significant differences between the mortality [RR 0.86, 95% CI (0.22, 3.29), P = 0.82] and the average dosage of corticosteroid [WMD -39.65, 95% CI (-116.84, 37.54),P = 0.31]. The other three studies also showed significant differences in infiltrate absorption, including national drug No. 2. 3.4 in combination with Western medicine [RR 5.45,95% CI (1.54, 19.26)], compound formulas NO. 1 combined with Western medicine [WMD 0.24, 95% CI (0.02, 0.46)],compound formulas combined with Western medicine [RR 8.06, 95% CI (0.40, 163.21)]. Kangfeidian No.4 in combination with Western medicine had no significant effect on symptomim provement such as loss of dyspnea and cough [RR 1.50,95%CI (0.41, 5.43)] and [RR 1.29, 95%C1 (0.30, 5.43)].CONCLUSION: Integrated traditional Chinese and Westernm edicines has some positive effects on lung infiltrate absorption in SARS patients, and is recommended as an adjunct treatmen展开更多
AIM: To investigate the expression of PTEN/MMAC1/TEP1 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), their roles in biologic behavior and angiogenesis and their association in gastric cancer.METHODS: Immunohistochemic...AIM: To investigate the expression of PTEN/MMAC1/TEP1 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), their roles in biologic behavior and angiogenesis and their association in gastric cancer.METHODS: Immunohistochemical staining was used to evaluate the expression of PTEN, VEGF and microvascular density (MVD) on paraffin-embedded sections in 70 patients with primary gastric cancer and 24 patients with chronic superficial gastritis (CSG). Expression of PTEN, VEGF and MVD were compared with clinicopathological features of gastric cancer. The relationship between expression of PTEN, VEGF and MVD as well as the relationship between PTEN and VEGF expression in caner cells were investigated. RESULTS: PTEN expression significantly decreased (t= 3.98, P<0.01) whereas both VEGF expression and MVD significant increased (t = 4.29 and 4.41, respectively, both P<0.01) in gastric cancer group compared with CSG group. PTEN expression was significantly down-regulated (t=1.95, P<0.05) whereas VEGF expression (t = 2.37, P<0.05) and MVD (t= 3.28, P<0.01) was significantly up-regulated in advanced gastric cancer compared with early-stage gastric cancer. PTEN expression in gastric cancer showed a negative association with lymph node metastasis (t= 3.91, P<0.01), invasion depth (t= 1.95, P<0.05) and age (t= 4.69, P<0.01). MVD in PTEN-negative gastric cancer was significantly higher than that in PTEN-positive gastric cancer (t=3.69, P<0.01), and there was a negative correlation betweenPTEN expression and MVD (γ=-0.363, P<0.05). VEGF expression was positively associated with invasion depth (especially with serosa invasion, t = 4.69, P<0.01), lymph node metastasis (t= 2.31, P<0.05) and TNM stage (t= 3.04, P<0.01). MVD in VEGF-positive gaslyic cancer was significantly higher than that in VEGF-negative gastric cancer (t=4.62, P<0.01), and there was a positive correlation between VEGF expression of and MVD (y = 0.512, P<0.05). VEGF expression in PTEN-negative gaslyic cancer was significantly stronger than that in PTEN-positive gastric canc展开更多
A new technique of dimension reduction named projection pursuit is applied to model and evaluatewetland soil quality variations in the Sanjiang Plain, Helongjiang Province, China. By adopting the im-proved real-coded ...A new technique of dimension reduction named projection pursuit is applied to model and evaluatewetland soil quality variations in the Sanjiang Plain, Helongjiang Province, China. By adopting the im-proved real-coded accelerating genetic algorithm (RAGA), the projection direction is optimized and multi-dimensional indexes are converted into low-dimensional space. Classification of wetland soils and evaluationof wetland soil quality variations are realized by pursuing optimum projection direction and projection func-tion value. Therefore, by adopting this new method, any possible human interference can be avoided andsound results can be achieved in researching quality changes and classification of wetland soils.展开更多
In the past decade, a variety of interventional procedures have been employed for local control of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). These include transcather arterial chemoembolization (TACE) and several tumour ablatio...In the past decade, a variety of interventional procedures have been employed for local control of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). These include transcather arterial chemoembolization (TACE) and several tumour ablation techniques, such as percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI),radio-frequency ablation (RFA), or percutaneous microwave coagulation therapy (PMC), laser-induced interstitial thermotherapy (LIFr), etc. For a definite assessment of the therapeutic efficacy of interventional procedures,histological examination using percutaneous needle biopsy may be the most definite assessment of the therapeutic efficacy of interventional therapy, however, it is invasive and the specimen retrieved does not always represent the entire lesion owing to sampling errors. Therefore, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) play a crucial role in follow-up of HCC treated by interventional procedures, by which the local treatment efficacy, recurrent disease and some of therapy-induced complications are evaluated. Contrast enhanced axial imaging (CT or MR imaging) may be the most sensitive test for assessing the therapeutic efficacy. The goal of the review was to describe the value of CT and MRI in the evaluation of interventional treatments.展开更多
Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) has become the standard treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). But this method has some shortages. p53 gene, which was found to be mutant in many hum...Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) has become the standard treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). But this method has some shortages. p53 gene, which was found to be mutant in many human tumors, has been proved with broadspectrum anti-tumor effects. We reported a 23-year-old patient with recurrent HCC after irregular hepatectomy. The p53 gene was applied to this patient. We injected percutaneously and infused transcatheterally p53 gene (Gendicine, Shenzhen Sibiono Bentech, China) into his recurrent nodules in liver respectively and 4 d later, the patient received TACE therapy. In the 2 mo follow-up, the patient was in good clinical condition with normal liver function and no recurrence was identified. The case report proposed that recurrent HCC could be successfully treated with p53 gene therapy combining TACE.展开更多
AIM: To evaluate the effects of tanshinone II-A on inducing growth inhibition and apoptosis of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells,METHODS: The human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line SMMC-7721 was used for th...AIM: To evaluate the effects of tanshinone II-A on inducing growth inhibition and apoptosis of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells,METHODS: The human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line SMMC-7721 was used for the study. The cells were treated with tanshinone II-A at different doses and different times.Cell growth and proliferation were measured by MTT assay,cell count and colony-forming assay. Apoptosis induction was detected by microscopy, DNA ladder electrophoresis and flow cytometry.RESULTS: In MTT assay, the inhibitory effect became gradually stronger with the passage of time, 24, 48, 72and 96 h after treatment with tanshinone II-A, and the most significant effect was observed at 72 h. On the other hand, the increase of doses (0.125, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0 mg/L tanshinone II-A) resulted in enhanced inhibitory effect.The growth and proliferation of SMMC-7721 cells were obviously suppressed in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The results of cell count were similar to that of MTT assay. In colony-forming assay, the colony-forming rates were obviously inhibited by tanshinone II-A. In tanshinone II-A group, the morphology of cellular growth inhibition and characteristics of apoptosis such as chromatin condensation, crescent formation, margination and apoptotic body were observed under light and transmission electron microscopes. DNA ladder of cells was presented in electrophoresis. The apoptosis index (AI) was 16.9% (the control group was 4.6%) in flow cytometry. The cells were arrested in G0/G1 phase, and the expressions of apoptosis-related genes bd-2 and c-myc were down-regulated and fas, bax, p53 up-regulated.CONCLUSION: Tanshinone II-A could inhibit the growth and proliferation of HCC cell effectively in vitro by apoptosis induction,which was associated with up-regulation of fas, p53, bax,expression and down-regulation of bcl-2 and c-myc.展开更多
AIM: To explore the etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome (PGS) after pancreatic cancer cryotherapy (PCC) or pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), and to analyze the correlati...AIM: To explore the etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome (PGS) after pancreatic cancer cryotherapy (PCC) or pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), and to analyze the correlation between the multiple factors and PGS caused by the operations.METHODS: Clinical data of 210 patients undergoing PD and 46 undergoing PCC were analyzed retrospectively.RESULTS: There were 32 (67%, 32/46) patients suffering PGS in PCC group, including 29 with pancreatic head and uncinate tumors and 2 with pancreatic body and tail tumors.Ten patients (4.8%, 20/220) developed PGS in PD group,which had a significantly lower incidence of PGS than PCC group (x = 245, P<0.001). In PCC group, 9 patients with PGS were managed with non-operative treatment (drugs,diet, nasogastric suction, etc.), and one received reoperation at the 16th day, but the symptoms were not relieved. In PD group, all the patients with PGS were managed with non-operative treatment. The PGS in patients undergoing PCC had close association with PCC,tumor location, but not with age, gender, obstructive jaundice, hypoproteinemia, preoperative gastric outlet obstruction and the type and number of gastric biliary tract operations. The mechanisms of PGS caused by PD were similar to those of PGS following gastrectomy. The damage to interstitial cells of Cajal might play a role in the pathogenesis of PGS after PCC, for which multiple factors were possibly responsible, including ischemic and neural injury to the antropyloric muscle and the duodenum after freezing of the pancreatico-duodenal regions or reduced circulating levels of motilin.CONCLUSION: PGS after PCC or PD is induced by multiple factors and the exact mechanisms, which might differ betweent hese two operations, remain unknown. Radiography of the upper gastrointestinal tract and gastroscopy are main diagnostic modalities for PGS. Non-operative treatments are effective for PGS, and reoperation should be avoided in patients with PGS caused by PCC.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the potential involvement of leptin in carcinogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to elucidate the etiology, carcinogenesis and progress of HCC.METHODS: Expressions of Ob gene product, le...AIM: To investigate the potential involvement of leptin in carcinogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to elucidate the etiology, carcinogenesis and progress of HCC.METHODS: Expressions of Ob gene product, leptin and its receptor, Ob-R were investigated in 36 cases of HCC spedmens and corresponding adjacent non-tumorous liver tissues with immunohistochemical staining. The effect of leptin on proliferation of Chang liver cell line and liver cancer cell line SMMC-7721 was studied with cell proliferation assay (MTT).RESULTS: Leptin expression was detected in 36 cases of adjacent non-tumorous liver tissues (36/36,100%) with moderate (++) to strong (+++) intensity; and in 72.22%(26/36) of HCC with weaker (+) intensity (P<0.05). Thirty of 36 (83.33%) cases of adjacent non-tumorous liver tissues were positive for Ob-R, with moderate (++) to strong (+++) intensity. In HCC, 11/36 (30.56%) cases were positive, with weak (+) intensity (P<0.05). In cell proliferation assay, leptin inhibited the proliferation of Chang liver cells. The cell survival rate was 10-13% lower than that of the untreated cells (P>0.05). Leptin had little effect on the proliferation of liver cancer cells (/)>0.05).CONCLUSION: High level expression and decreased or absent expression of leptin and its receptor in adjacent non-tumorous liver cells and HCC cells, inhibitory effect of leptin on the proliferation of normal Chang liver cells and no effect of leptin on proliferation of liver cancer cells,may provide new insights into the carcinogenesis and progression of human HCC. It could be assumed that leptin acting as an inhibitor and/or promoter, is involved in the process of carcinogenesis and progress of human HCC.展开更多
AIM: The study of immune response of open versus laparoscopical total mesorectal excision with anal sphincter preservation in patients with rectal cancer has not been reported yet. The dissected retroperitoneal area t...AIM: The study of immune response of open versus laparoscopical total mesorectal excision with anal sphincter preservation in patients with rectal cancer has not been reported yet. The dissected retroperitoneal area that contacts directly with carbon dioxide is extensive in laparoscopic total mesorectal excision with anal sphincter preservation surgery. Tt is important to clarify whether the immune response of laparoscopic total mesorectal excision with anal sphincter preservation (LTME with ASP) in patients with rectal cancer is suppressed more severely than that of open surgery (OTME with ASP). This study was designed to compare the immune functions after laparoscopic and open total mesorectal excision with anal sphincter preservation for rectal cancer.METHODS: This study involved 45 patients undergoing laparoscopic (n=20) and open (n=25) total mesorectal excisions with anal sphincter preservation for rectal cancer.Serum interleukin-2 (IL-2), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) were assayed preoperatively and on days 1 and 5 postoperatively. CD3+ and CD56+ T lymphocyte count, CD3- and CD56+ natural killer cell (NK)count and immunoglobulin (IgG/IgM/IgA) were assayed preoperatively and on day 5 postoperatively. The numbers of CD3+ and CD56+ T lymphocytes and CD3- and CD56+ NK cells were counted using flow cytometry. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used for IL-2, TL-6 and TNFα determination. And IgG, IgM, and IgA were assayed using immunonephelometry.RESULTS: The demographic data of the two groups had no difference. The preoperative levels of CD3+ and CD56+ T lymphocyte count, CD3- and CD56+ NK count, serum IgG,IgM, IgA, IL-2, IL-6 and TNFα also had no significant difference in the two groups (P＞0.05). The CD3+ and CD56+ T lymphocyte counts had no obvious changes after surgery in laparoscopic (d=-0.79±3.83 %) and open (d=0.42±2.09 %)groups. The CD3- and CD56+ NK counts were decreased postoperatively in both laparoscopic (d=-7.23±11.33 %) and open (d=-9.21±13.93 %) groups展开更多
AIM:To study the significance of p16 and p15 transcription suppression with hypermethylation of their genes′5′CpG islands during human hepatocellular carcinogenesis.METHODS:The mRNA expression levels of p16 and p15 ...AIM:To study the significance of p16 and p15 transcription suppression with hypermethylation of their genes′5′CpG islands during human hepatocellular carcinogenesis.METHODS:The mRNA expression levels of p16 and p15 genes were evaluated in cancerous,para-cancerous and non-cancerous tissues of 20 HCC,3 normal liver tissues from 3 accidentally died healthy adults using simi-quantitatively Northerm blot.The methylation status was also assessed with methylation specfic PCR.RESULTS:p16 mRNA expression level was decressed in the cancerous tissues in 60%(12/20) of HCC patients,of which 2 cases had no p16 mRNA detected,5 cases(25%) displayed variation in the order of cancerous<para-cancerous<non-cancerous liver tissues.p15 mRNA expression level was decreased in the cancerous tissues in 50%(10/20) HCC patients,of which one case had no p15 mRNA detected,4 cases (20%) displayed variation in the order of cancerous<para-cancerous<non-cancerous liver tissues.In cancerous,para-cancerous and non-cancerous tissues,p16 promoter CpG islands hypernethylation occurred 65% ,60% and 35%,while p15 promoter CpG islands hypermethylation occurred 50%,40% and 25%.of 12 HCCs with lower p16 promoter CpG islands methylation(91.6%).Hundred percent(10/10) HCCs with lower p15 mRNA expression level showed p15 promoter CpG islands methylation.Significant correlation between 5′CpG islands methylation and p16/p15 mRNA expression suppression was found.The dexreased expression of p16/p15 mRNA or metyylation of p16.p15 promoters 5′CpG island was significantly,0.01.2,0.00271,0.0218,respectively,(p<0.05).CONCLUSION:p16 and p15 genes transcriptional inactivation might play an important role in hepataocarcinogenesis.5′CpG islands methylation might bi the major mechanism of p16 and p15 genes inactivation in primary HCC in the studied population.5′CpG islands methylation of p16 and p15 genes might be an early event in hepatocarcinogenesis.展开更多
AIM： To investigate the risk factors for gallstone disease in the general population of Chengdu, China. METHODS： This study was conducted at the West China Hospital. Subjects who received a physical examination at t...AIM： To investigate the risk factors for gallstone disease in the general population of Chengdu, China. METHODS： This study was conducted at the West China Hospital. Subjects who received a physical examination at this hospital between January and December 2007 were included. Body mass index, blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, serum lipid and lipoproteins concentrations were analyzed. Gallstone disease was diagnosed by ultrasound or on the basis of a history of cholecystectomy because of gallstone disease. Unconditional logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the risk factors for gallstone disease, and the Chi-square test was used to analyze differences in the incidence of metabolic disorders between subjects with and without gallstone disease. RESULTS： A total of 3573 people were included, 10.7% （384/3573） of whom had gallstone diseases. Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that the incidence of gallstone disease in subjects aged 40-64 or ≥65 years was significantly different from that in those aged 18-39 years （P 〈 0.05）; the incidence was higher in women than in men （P 〈 0.05）. In men,a high level of fasting plasma glucose was obvious in gallstone disease （P 〈 0.05）, and in women, hypertriglyceridemia or obesity were significant in gallstone disease （P 〈 0.05）. CONCLUSION： We assume that age and sex are profoundly associated with the incidence of gallstone disease; the metabolic risk factors for gallstone disease were different between men and women.展开更多
Background Vascular endothelial growth factor （VEGF） is well known as a hypoxia-induced protein. That it markedly increased expression of VEGF and improvement of rat motor function after spinal cord injury suggested...Background Vascular endothelial growth factor （VEGF） is well known as a hypoxia-induced protein. That it markedly increased expression of VEGF and improvement of rat motor function after spinal cord injury suggested that VEGF could play a neuroprotective role in ischaemic tolerance. This study investigated whether vascular endothelial growth factor has direct neuroprotective effects on rat spinal cord neurons. Methods We employed primary cultures of embryonic rat spinal cord neurons, then administrated different concentrations of VEGF164 in the culture medium before hypoxia when the number of neurons was counted and the cell viability was detected by MTT. The neuronal apoptosis and expression of VEGF and its receptor genes were evaluated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated dUTP nick-end labelling （TUNEL） and immunohistochemistry. The VEGFR2/FLK-1 inhibitor, SU1498, was used to confirm whether the neuroprotective effect of VEGF was mediated through VEGFR2/Flk-1 receptors. Result In hypoxic conditions,the number and viability of neurons decreased progressively, while the number of TUNEL-positive cells increased along with the prolongation of hypoxic exposure. When the concentration of VEGF in cell culture medium reached 25 ng/ml, the cell viability increased 11% and neuronal apoptosis reduced to half, this effect was dose dependent and led to an approximately 25% increase in cell viability and about threefold decrease in TUNEL-positive cells at a maximally effective concentration of 100 ng/ml. In normal conditions, VEGF/Flk-1 but not VEGF/Flt-1 gene expressed at a low level： after hypoxia, the expression of VEGF/Flk-1, but not VEGF/Flt-1 was significantly increased. The protective effect of VEGF was blocked by the VEGFR2/Flk-1 receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, SU1498. Conclusions VEGF has direct neuroprotective effects on rat spinal cord neurons, which may be mediated in vitro through VEGFR2/Flk-1 receptors.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the therapeutic effects of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) on rat septic shock with intraabdominal infection by E. coli and its possible mechanism. METHODS: 76 SD rats were divided into 3 g...AIM: To investigate the therapeutic effects of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) on rat septic shock with intraabdominal infection by E. coli and its possible mechanism. METHODS: 76 SD rats were divided into 3 groups randomly:control group (group C, n=16) without any special treatnent,of E. coli(1×1010 cfu@ L-1,15 ml@kg-1, ip), treated group (group by rhGH injection (2.25 U@kg-1@d-1, im). Group S and group T were further divided into 1d and 3d subgroups, respectively (n=15 each). Mean arterial pressure (MAP), levels of plasma TNFα and endotoxin and leukocyte count were determined on 1st day and 3rd day after E. coli injection. Another 39 SD rats were divided into groups C, S and T (n=13 each) just for observing survival rate within 1 week.RESULTS: (1) On 1st and 3rd day, MAP in group S decreased markedly, and MAP on 1st day lowered more than that of 3rd day (P＜0.01), while MAP in group T just decreased slightly. The survival rate within 1 week was much higher in group T (84.6 %) than in group S (46.2 %) (P＜0.01). (2)On 1st day, plasma TNFα and endotoxin elevated significantly in group S and group T (P＜0.05), and endotoxin in group S had more increase (P＜0.01). On 3rd day, TNFα in group S returned to the level of group C (P＞0.05),while TNFα in group T went down below the level of group C(P＜0.01). On 3rd day, endotoxin in group S declined, but was still higher than that of group C (P＜0.01), endotoxin in group T returned to the level of group C (P＞0.05). (3) On 1st day, neutrophil ratio in total leukocyte count in both group S and group T increased significantly (P＜0.05 vs group C).CONCLUSION: rhGH showed beneficial effects on rat septic shock. The possible mechanisms may involve the attenuation of bacteria/endotoxin translocation and decreased systemic endotoxin level; inhibition of the production and release of TNFα; improved circulatory function; improved systemic host defenses and maintenance of intestinal mucosa barrier.展开更多
One of the difficulties frequently encountered in water quality assessment is that there are many factors and they cannot be assessed according to one factor, all the effect factors associated with water quality must ...One of the difficulties frequently encountered in water quality assessment is that there are many factors and they cannot be assessed according to one factor, all the effect factors associated with water quality must be used. In order to overcome this issues the projection pursuit principle is introduced into water quality assessment, and projection pursuit cluster(PPC) model is developed in this study. The PPC model makes the transition from high dimension to one-dimension. In other words, based on the PPC model, multifactor problem can be converted to one factor problem. The application of PPC model can be divided into four parts: (1) to estimate projection index function Q(); (2) to find the right projection direction ; (3) to calculate projection characteristic value of the i th sample z-i, and (4) to draw comprehensive analysis on the basis of z-i. On the other hand, the empirical formula of cutoff radius R is developed, which is benefit for the model to be used in practice. Finally, a case study of water quality assessment is proposed in this paper. The results showed that the PPC model is reasonable, and it is more objective and less subjective in water quality assessment. It is a new method for multivariate problem comprehensive analysis.展开更多
AIM:To assess the value of multidetector-row computed tomography (MDCT) in choosing retreatment methods of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) through evaluating the blood supply of low-density area of HCC after transcathe...AIM:To assess the value of multidetector-row computed tomography (MDCT) in choosing retreatment methods of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) through evaluating the blood supply of low-density area of HCC after transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE).METHODS: Thirty-two patients with HCC after TACE treatment were examined by plain scanning and hepatic multidetector-row CT. The location of low-density area on plain scanning and the enhancement patterns on dynamic contrast-enhanced scanning were observed. At the same time, three-dimensional CT(3D CT) models of the volume rendering, curved multiplanar reformations, surface shaded display and maximum intensity projection reconstruction of the hepatic artery and portal vein were performed in 6 cases.RESULTS: In CT plain scanning data, low density areas of 32 cases of HCC after TACE treatment were divided into three types: peripheral, one-side-located and mixed types.In contrast-enhanced CT scans, the blood supply of low-density area was classified into four types: arterial blood supply (20 cases), portal blood supply (5 cases), arterial combined with portal blood supply (5 cases) and poor blood supply (2 cases). In 6 cases, the relationship between the low-density area and branches of hepatic artery as well asportal vein was shown by 3D CT.CONCLUSION: Hepatic MDCT is an effective method for evaluating the blood supply of low-density area and therapeutic effect of HCC after TACE treatment. Types of blood supply is helpful for the selection of retreatment.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the number, size, and status of lymph nodes within the mesorectum and to explore the prognostic significance of lymph node micrometastases in patients with rectal cancer. METHODS: Thirty-one patien...AIM: To investigate the number, size, and status of lymph nodes within the mesorectum and to explore the prognostic significance of lymph node micrometastases in patients with rectal cancer. METHODS: Thirty-one patients with rectal cancer undergone total mesorectal excision between October 2001 and October 2002 were included. Mesorectal nodes retrieved from the resected specimens were detected with a combination of haematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and immunohistochemistry (IHC). The relations between lymph node metastases, micrometastases and postoperative recurrence were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 548 lymph nodes were harvested, with 17.7±8.2 nodes per case. The average number of metastatic nodes in HE-positive patients and micrometastatic nodes in IHC-positive patients was 5.2±5.1 per case and 2.2±1.3 per case, respectively. The mean size of all nodes and metastatic nodes was 4.1±1.8mm and 5.2±1.7mm in diameter, respectively. The mean size of micrometastatic nodes was 3.9±1.4mm in diameter. The size of the majority of mesorectal nodes (66.8%), metastatic nodes (52.6%), and micrometastatic nodes (79.5%) was less than 5mm in diameter. During a median follow-up period of 24.6±4.7mo, 5 patients (16.7%) had recurrence, of them 2 died and 3 survived. Another case died of tumor unrelated cause and was excluded. All 5 recurrent cases had 3 or more nodes involved, and one of them developed only lymph node micrometastases. The mean number of both metastatic and micrometastatic nodes per case differed significantly between the recurrent and non-recurrent groups (P<0.01 and P=0.01, respectively). CONCLUSION: The majority of lymph nodes, metastatic, and micrometastatic lymph nodes within the mesorectum are smaller than 5mm in diameter. The nodal status and the number of lymph nodes involved with tumor metastases and micrometastases are related to the rapid postoperative recurrence.展开更多
AIM: To describe the correlation between innunostaining patterns of p16 and CDK4 and prognosis in colorectal carcinoma.METHODS: Paraffin sections of 74 cases of colorectal carcinoma were analysed immunohistochemically...AIM: To describe the correlation between innunostaining patterns of p16 and CDK4 and prognosis in colorectal carcinoma.METHODS: Paraffin sections of 74 cases of colorectal carcinoma were analysed immunohistochemically for expression of p16 and CDK4 proteins.RESULTS: Most carcinomas showed stronger p16 and CDK4immunostaining in the cytoplasm than the adenomas or the adjacent normal mucosa. Strong immunostaining of p16 was a predictor for better prognosis whereas strong cytoplasmic immunostaining of CDK4 was a predictor for poor prognosis.Both p16 and CDK4 immunostainings were correlated with histological grade or Dukes' stage.CONCLUSION: These results support the experimental evidence that interaction of expression of p16 and CDK4may play an important role in the Rb/p16 pathway, and the expression paterns of CDK4 and p16 may be imperative in the development of colorectal carcinoma, thus becoming a new prognostic marker in colorectal cancer.展开更多
文摘Pancreatic microcirculatory disturbance plays an importantrole in the pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis, and itinvolves a series of changes including vasoconstriction,ischaemia, increased vascular permeability, impairment ofnutritive tissue perfusion, ischaemia/reperfusion, leukocyteadherence, hemorrheological changes and impairedlymphatic drainage. Ischaemia possibly acts as an initiatingfactor of pancreatic microcirculatory injury in acutepancreatitis, or as an aggravating/continuing mechanism.The end-artery feature of the intralobular arterioles suggeststhat the pancreatic microcirculation is highly susceptible toischaemia. Various vasoactive mediators, as bradykinin,platelet activating factor, endothelin and nitric oxideparticipate in the development of microcirculatory failure.
文摘Background Bacteria-induced respiratory infection has been long considered to be the major cause of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease （AECOPD）.Therefore,a clear picture about the distribution and drug-resistance of pathogenic bacteria in the lower airways should be helpful for treatment of the disease.So far,data on this topic among Chinese are lacking.Methods A surveillance study was performed in consecutive patients with AECOPD at five areas in China between October 2006 and April 2008.The sputum from these patients was cultured and isolated for bacteria.Agar dilution method was used to determine the minimal inhibitory concentrations （MICs） of levofloxacin and other 15 antibiotics against these strains.Results Three hundred and fifty-nine pathogenic bacterial strains were isolated among 884 patients with AECOPD.The predominant bacteria were Pseudomonas aeruginosa （21.7%）,Klebsiella pneumoniae （12.3%）,Haemophilus influenzae （14.2%） and Streptococcus pneumoniae （11.7%）,followed by Haemophilus parainfluenzae （9.5%）,Acinetobacter baumannii （7.8%）,Moraxella catarrhalis （6.4%） and Escherichia coli （3.6%）.The majority of bacterial pathogens isolated in this study were susceptible to fluoroquinolones,ceftazidime,cefepime and imipenem.Conclusions Gram-negative bacilli are the leading pathogens in patients with AECOPD in China.Haemophilus parainfluenzae may be one of the most important pathogens in AECOPD.This study provides evidence for local surveillance of AECOPD pathogens and appropriate choice of antimicrobials in China.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China for Excellent Young Scientists,No.39725012the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.30170418
文摘AIM: Somatostatin and its analogues may suppress the growth of various tumor cells. However, the effect of octreotide on growth of gastric adenocarcinoma is still largely unknown. This study was to explore if octreotide could inhibit the growth of gastric adenocarcinoma and its probable mechanisms.METHODS: Proliferation of gastric cancer cell line affected by octreotide was determined by 3H-thymidine incorporation.After xenografts of human gastric cancer were implanted orthotopically in stomach, nude mice were administrated octreotide for 8 weeks. The mRNA of somatostatin receptor in the SGC-7901 cells was detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction technique. Extracellular signalregulated protein kinase and c-Fos in gastric cancer tissues were measured by immunohistochemistry and Western blot.Activator protein-1 binding activity was examined by electrophoretic mobility sift assay.RESULTS: 3H-thymidine incorporation into SGC-7901 cells was significantly decreased by octreotide in a concentration dependent manner. Either size or weight of tumors treated with octreotide was significantly reduced in vivo. The inhibition rate for tumor was 62.3% in octreotide group.The genes of somatostatin receptors 2 and 3 were expressed in SGC-7901 gastric cancer cell lines. Extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase and c-Fos protein level were decreased in gastric adenocarcinoma treated with octreotide. Moreover, fetal calf serum stimulated activator protein-1 binding activity could be suppressed by octreotide potentially.CONCLUSION: Inhibition of sequential molecular events in MAPK pathway may interpret the mechanisms underlying the effect of octreotide on the growth of gastric adenocarcinoma.
文摘AIM: To assess the possible effect of integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine on severe acute respiratory syndromes.METHODS: The current available randomized controlled trials of integrated tradilJonal Chinese and Western medicine on SARS were identified through systematically searching literature in any languages or any types of publications.Additional studies of gray literature were also collected.The quality of studies was evaluated by two investigators independently based largely on the quality criteria specified CONSORT. Statistical analysis of the results was performed using RevMan 4.2.0 software developed by the Cochrane Collaboration.RESULTS: Six studies (n = 366) fulfilling the inclusion criteria were found, of which the quality of one study was graded as B, the remaining five were graded as C. Two studies were performed with meta-analysis, the other four studies existed some heterogeneity for which meta-analysis could not be performed, a significant effect on lung infiltrate absorption was found in the treatment groups of these two studies [RR 6.68, 95% CI (2.93, 15.24), P<0.01], there was no significant differences between the mortality [RR 0.86, 95% CI (0.22, 3.29), P = 0.82] and the average dosage of corticosteroid [WMD -39.65, 95% CI (-116.84, 37.54),P = 0.31]. The other three studies also showed significant differences in infiltrate absorption, including national drug No. 2. 3.4 in combination with Western medicine [RR 5.45,95% CI (1.54, 19.26)], compound formulas NO. 1 combined with Western medicine [WMD 0.24, 95% CI (0.02, 0.46)],compound formulas combined with Western medicine [RR 8.06, 95% CI (0.40, 163.21)]. Kangfeidian No.4 in combination with Western medicine had no significant effect on symptomim provement such as loss of dyspnea and cough [RR 1.50,95%CI (0.41, 5.43)] and [RR 1.29, 95%C1 (0.30, 5.43)].CONCLUSION: Integrated traditional Chinese and Westernm edicines has some positive effects on lung infiltrate absorption in SARS patients, and is recommended as an adjunct treatmen
文摘AIM: To investigate the expression of PTEN/MMAC1/TEP1 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), their roles in biologic behavior and angiogenesis and their association in gastric cancer.METHODS: Immunohistochemical staining was used to evaluate the expression of PTEN, VEGF and microvascular density (MVD) on paraffin-embedded sections in 70 patients with primary gastric cancer and 24 patients with chronic superficial gastritis (CSG). Expression of PTEN, VEGF and MVD were compared with clinicopathological features of gastric cancer. The relationship between expression of PTEN, VEGF and MVD as well as the relationship between PTEN and VEGF expression in caner cells were investigated. RESULTS: PTEN expression significantly decreased (t= 3.98, P<0.01) whereas both VEGF expression and MVD significant increased (t = 4.29 and 4.41, respectively, both P<0.01) in gastric cancer group compared with CSG group. PTEN expression was significantly down-regulated (t=1.95, P<0.05) whereas VEGF expression (t = 2.37, P<0.05) and MVD (t= 3.28, P<0.01) was significantly up-regulated in advanced gastric cancer compared with early-stage gastric cancer. PTEN expression in gastric cancer showed a negative association with lymph node metastasis (t= 3.91, P<0.01), invasion depth (t= 1.95, P<0.05) and age (t= 4.69, P<0.01). MVD in PTEN-negative gastric cancer was significantly higher than that in PTEN-positive gastric cancer (t=3.69, P<0.01), and there was a negative correlation betweenPTEN expression and MVD (γ=-0.363, P<0.05). VEGF expression was positively associated with invasion depth (especially with serosa invasion, t = 4.69, P<0.01), lymph node metastasis (t= 2.31, P<0.05) and TNM stage (t= 3.04, P<0.01). MVD in VEGF-positive gaslyic cancer was significantly higher than that in VEGF-negative gastric cancer (t=4.62, P<0.01), and there was a positive correlation between VEGF expression of and MVD (y = 0.512, P<0.05). VEGF expression in PTEN-negative gaslyic cancer was significantly stronger than that in PTEN-positive gastric canc
基金Project supported by the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation,the Youth Foundation of Sichuan University(No.432028)and the National High-Tech Research and Development Program of China(863 Program)(No.2002AA2Z4251).
文摘A new technique of dimension reduction named projection pursuit is applied to model and evaluatewetland soil quality variations in the Sanjiang Plain, Helongjiang Province, China. By adopting the im-proved real-coded accelerating genetic algorithm (RAGA), the projection direction is optimized and multi-dimensional indexes are converted into low-dimensional space. Classification of wetland soils and evaluationof wetland soil quality variations are realized by pursuing optimum projection direction and projection func-tion value. Therefore, by adopting this new method, any possible human interference can be avoided andsound results can be achieved in researching quality changes and classification of wetland soils.
文摘In the past decade, a variety of interventional procedures have been employed for local control of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). These include transcather arterial chemoembolization (TACE) and several tumour ablation techniques, such as percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI),radio-frequency ablation (RFA), or percutaneous microwave coagulation therapy (PMC), laser-induced interstitial thermotherapy (LIFr), etc. For a definite assessment of the therapeutic efficacy of interventional procedures,histological examination using percutaneous needle biopsy may be the most definite assessment of the therapeutic efficacy of interventional therapy, however, it is invasive and the specimen retrieved does not always represent the entire lesion owing to sampling errors. Therefore, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) play a crucial role in follow-up of HCC treated by interventional procedures, by which the local treatment efficacy, recurrent disease and some of therapy-induced complications are evaluated. Contrast enhanced axial imaging (CT or MR imaging) may be the most sensitive test for assessing the therapeutic efficacy. The goal of the review was to describe the value of CT and MRI in the evaluation of interventional treatments.
文摘Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) has become the standard treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). But this method has some shortages. p53 gene, which was found to be mutant in many human tumors, has been proved with broadspectrum anti-tumor effects. We reported a 23-year-old patient with recurrent HCC after irregular hepatectomy. The p53 gene was applied to this patient. We injected percutaneously and infused transcatheterally p53 gene (Gendicine, Shenzhen Sibiono Bentech, China) into his recurrent nodules in liver respectively and 4 d later, the patient received TACE therapy. In the 2 mo follow-up, the patient was in good clinical condition with normal liver function and no recurrence was identified. The case report proposed that recurrent HCC could be successfully treated with p53 gene therapy combining TACE.
基金Supported by the Science Foundation of the Ministry of Health of China,No.96-1-240 and the Applied Basic Research Programs of Science and Technology Commission Foundation of Sichuan Province,No.2000-135
文摘AIM: To evaluate the effects of tanshinone II-A on inducing growth inhibition and apoptosis of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells,METHODS: The human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line SMMC-7721 was used for the study. The cells were treated with tanshinone II-A at different doses and different times.Cell growth and proliferation were measured by MTT assay,cell count and colony-forming assay. Apoptosis induction was detected by microscopy, DNA ladder electrophoresis and flow cytometry.RESULTS: In MTT assay, the inhibitory effect became gradually stronger with the passage of time, 24, 48, 72and 96 h after treatment with tanshinone II-A, and the most significant effect was observed at 72 h. On the other hand, the increase of doses (0.125, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0 mg/L tanshinone II-A) resulted in enhanced inhibitory effect.The growth and proliferation of SMMC-7721 cells were obviously suppressed in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The results of cell count were similar to that of MTT assay. In colony-forming assay, the colony-forming rates were obviously inhibited by tanshinone II-A. In tanshinone II-A group, the morphology of cellular growth inhibition and characteristics of apoptosis such as chromatin condensation, crescent formation, margination and apoptotic body were observed under light and transmission electron microscopes. DNA ladder of cells was presented in electrophoresis. The apoptosis index (AI) was 16.9% (the control group was 4.6%) in flow cytometry. The cells were arrested in G0/G1 phase, and the expressions of apoptosis-related genes bd-2 and c-myc were down-regulated and fas, bax, p53 up-regulated.CONCLUSION: Tanshinone II-A could inhibit the growth and proliferation of HCC cell effectively in vitro by apoptosis induction,which was associated with up-regulation of fas, p53, bax,expression and down-regulation of bcl-2 and c-myc.
基金Supported by the Research Foundation of Department of Health of Sichuan Province,No.000050
文摘AIM: To explore the etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome (PGS) after pancreatic cancer cryotherapy (PCC) or pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), and to analyze the correlation between the multiple factors and PGS caused by the operations.METHODS: Clinical data of 210 patients undergoing PD and 46 undergoing PCC were analyzed retrospectively.RESULTS: There were 32 (67%, 32/46) patients suffering PGS in PCC group, including 29 with pancreatic head and uncinate tumors and 2 with pancreatic body and tail tumors.Ten patients (4.8%, 20/220) developed PGS in PD group,which had a significantly lower incidence of PGS than PCC group (x = 245, P<0.001). In PCC group, 9 patients with PGS were managed with non-operative treatment (drugs,diet, nasogastric suction, etc.), and one received reoperation at the 16th day, but the symptoms were not relieved. In PD group, all the patients with PGS were managed with non-operative treatment. The PGS in patients undergoing PCC had close association with PCC,tumor location, but not with age, gender, obstructive jaundice, hypoproteinemia, preoperative gastric outlet obstruction and the type and number of gastric biliary tract operations. The mechanisms of PGS caused by PD were similar to those of PGS following gastrectomy. The damage to interstitial cells of Cajal might play a role in the pathogenesis of PGS after PCC, for which multiple factors were possibly responsible, including ischemic and neural injury to the antropyloric muscle and the duodenum after freezing of the pancreatico-duodenal regions or reduced circulating levels of motilin.CONCLUSION: PGS after PCC or PD is induced by multiple factors and the exact mechanisms, which might differ betweent hese two operations, remain unknown. Radiography of the upper gastrointestinal tract and gastroscopy are main diagnostic modalities for PGS. Non-operative treatments are effective for PGS, and reoperation should be avoided in patients with PGS caused by PCC.
基金Supported by the Grants From Sasakawa Medical Foundation of International Cooperation Department of Ministry of Public Health of China(054)and Science Foundation of West China University of Medical Sciences(L99016)
文摘AIM: To investigate the potential involvement of leptin in carcinogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to elucidate the etiology, carcinogenesis and progress of HCC.METHODS: Expressions of Ob gene product, leptin and its receptor, Ob-R were investigated in 36 cases of HCC spedmens and corresponding adjacent non-tumorous liver tissues with immunohistochemical staining. The effect of leptin on proliferation of Chang liver cell line and liver cancer cell line SMMC-7721 was studied with cell proliferation assay (MTT).RESULTS: Leptin expression was detected in 36 cases of adjacent non-tumorous liver tissues (36/36,100%) with moderate (++) to strong (+++) intensity; and in 72.22%(26/36) of HCC with weaker (+) intensity (P<0.05). Thirty of 36 (83.33%) cases of adjacent non-tumorous liver tissues were positive for Ob-R, with moderate (++) to strong (+++) intensity. In HCC, 11/36 (30.56%) cases were positive, with weak (+) intensity (P<0.05). In cell proliferation assay, leptin inhibited the proliferation of Chang liver cells. The cell survival rate was 10-13% lower than that of the untreated cells (P>0.05). Leptin had little effect on the proliferation of liver cancer cells (/)>0.05).CONCLUSION: High level expression and decreased or absent expression of leptin and its receptor in adjacent non-tumorous liver cells and HCC cells, inhibitory effect of leptin on the proliferation of normal Chang liver cells and no effect of leptin on proliferation of liver cancer cells,may provide new insights into the carcinogenesis and progression of human HCC. It could be assumed that leptin acting as an inhibitor and/or promoter, is involved in the process of carcinogenesis and progress of human HCC.
基金the Key Project of National Outstanding Youth Foundation of China,No.39925032
文摘AIM: The study of immune response of open versus laparoscopical total mesorectal excision with anal sphincter preservation in patients with rectal cancer has not been reported yet. The dissected retroperitoneal area that contacts directly with carbon dioxide is extensive in laparoscopic total mesorectal excision with anal sphincter preservation surgery. Tt is important to clarify whether the immune response of laparoscopic total mesorectal excision with anal sphincter preservation (LTME with ASP) in patients with rectal cancer is suppressed more severely than that of open surgery (OTME with ASP). This study was designed to compare the immune functions after laparoscopic and open total mesorectal excision with anal sphincter preservation for rectal cancer.METHODS: This study involved 45 patients undergoing laparoscopic (n=20) and open (n=25) total mesorectal excisions with anal sphincter preservation for rectal cancer.Serum interleukin-2 (IL-2), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) were assayed preoperatively and on days 1 and 5 postoperatively. CD3+ and CD56+ T lymphocyte count, CD3- and CD56+ natural killer cell (NK)count and immunoglobulin (IgG/IgM/IgA) were assayed preoperatively and on day 5 postoperatively. The numbers of CD3+ and CD56+ T lymphocytes and CD3- and CD56+ NK cells were counted using flow cytometry. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used for IL-2, TL-6 and TNFα determination. And IgG, IgM, and IgA were assayed using immunonephelometry.RESULTS: The demographic data of the two groups had no difference. The preoperative levels of CD3+ and CD56+ T lymphocyte count, CD3- and CD56+ NK count, serum IgG,IgM, IgA, IL-2, IL-6 and TNFα also had no significant difference in the two groups (P＞0.05). The CD3+ and CD56+ T lymphocyte counts had no obvious changes after surgery in laparoscopic (d=-0.79±3.83 %) and open (d=0.42±2.09 %)groups. The CD3- and CD56+ NK counts were decreased postoperatively in both laparoscopic (d=-7.23±11.33 %) and open (d=-9.21±13.93 %) groups
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China.No.39670702
文摘AIM:To study the significance of p16 and p15 transcription suppression with hypermethylation of their genes′5′CpG islands during human hepatocellular carcinogenesis.METHODS:The mRNA expression levels of p16 and p15 genes were evaluated in cancerous,para-cancerous and non-cancerous tissues of 20 HCC,3 normal liver tissues from 3 accidentally died healthy adults using simi-quantitatively Northerm blot.The methylation status was also assessed with methylation specfic PCR.RESULTS:p16 mRNA expression level was decressed in the cancerous tissues in 60%(12/20) of HCC patients,of which 2 cases had no p16 mRNA detected,5 cases(25%) displayed variation in the order of cancerous<para-cancerous<non-cancerous liver tissues.p15 mRNA expression level was decreased in the cancerous tissues in 50%(10/20) HCC patients,of which one case had no p15 mRNA detected,4 cases (20%) displayed variation in the order of cancerous<para-cancerous<non-cancerous liver tissues.In cancerous,para-cancerous and non-cancerous tissues,p16 promoter CpG islands hypernethylation occurred 65% ,60% and 35%,while p15 promoter CpG islands hypermethylation occurred 50%,40% and 25%.of 12 HCCs with lower p16 promoter CpG islands methylation(91.6%).Hundred percent(10/10) HCCs with lower p15 mRNA expression level showed p15 promoter CpG islands methylation.Significant correlation between 5′CpG islands methylation and p16/p15 mRNA expression suppression was found.The dexreased expression of p16/p15 mRNA or metyylation of p16.p15 promoters 5′CpG island was significantly,0.01.2,0.00271,0.0218,respectively,(p<0.05).CONCLUSION:p16 and p15 genes transcriptional inactivation might play an important role in hepataocarcinogenesis.5′CpG islands methylation might bi the major mechanism of p16 and p15 genes inactivation in primary HCC in the studied population.5′CpG islands methylation of p16 and p15 genes might be an early event in hepatocarcinogenesis.
基金The National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.30571640the National Basic Research Program of China,No.2006CB504302 and No.2007CB512902
文摘AIM： To investigate the risk factors for gallstone disease in the general population of Chengdu, China. METHODS： This study was conducted at the West China Hospital. Subjects who received a physical examination at this hospital between January and December 2007 were included. Body mass index, blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, serum lipid and lipoproteins concentrations were analyzed. Gallstone disease was diagnosed by ultrasound or on the basis of a history of cholecystectomy because of gallstone disease. Unconditional logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the risk factors for gallstone disease, and the Chi-square test was used to analyze differences in the incidence of metabolic disorders between subjects with and without gallstone disease. RESULTS： A total of 3573 people were included, 10.7% （384/3573） of whom had gallstone diseases. Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that the incidence of gallstone disease in subjects aged 40-64 or ≥65 years was significantly different from that in those aged 18-39 years （P 〈 0.05）; the incidence was higher in women than in men （P 〈 0.05）. In men,a high level of fasting plasma glucose was obvious in gallstone disease （P 〈 0.05）, and in women, hypertriglyceridemia or obesity were significant in gallstone disease （P 〈 0.05）. CONCLUSION： We assume that age and sex are profoundly associated with the incidence of gallstone disease; the metabolic risk factors for gallstone disease were different between men and women.
文摘Background Vascular endothelial growth factor （VEGF） is well known as a hypoxia-induced protein. That it markedly increased expression of VEGF and improvement of rat motor function after spinal cord injury suggested that VEGF could play a neuroprotective role in ischaemic tolerance. This study investigated whether vascular endothelial growth factor has direct neuroprotective effects on rat spinal cord neurons. Methods We employed primary cultures of embryonic rat spinal cord neurons, then administrated different concentrations of VEGF164 in the culture medium before hypoxia when the number of neurons was counted and the cell viability was detected by MTT. The neuronal apoptosis and expression of VEGF and its receptor genes were evaluated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated dUTP nick-end labelling （TUNEL） and immunohistochemistry. The VEGFR2/FLK-1 inhibitor, SU1498, was used to confirm whether the neuroprotective effect of VEGF was mediated through VEGFR2/Flk-1 receptors. Result In hypoxic conditions,the number and viability of neurons decreased progressively, while the number of TUNEL-positive cells increased along with the prolongation of hypoxic exposure. When the concentration of VEGF in cell culture medium reached 25 ng/ml, the cell viability increased 11% and neuronal apoptosis reduced to half, this effect was dose dependent and led to an approximately 25% increase in cell viability and about threefold decrease in TUNEL-positive cells at a maximally effective concentration of 100 ng/ml. In normal conditions, VEGF/Flk-1 but not VEGF/Flt-1 gene expressed at a low level： after hypoxia, the expression of VEGF/Flk-1, but not VEGF/Flt-1 was significantly increased. The protective effect of VEGF was blocked by the VEGFR2/Flk-1 receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, SU1498. Conclusions VEGF has direct neuroprotective effects on rat spinal cord neurons, which may be mediated in vitro through VEGFR2/Flk-1 receptors.
文摘AIM: To investigate the therapeutic effects of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) on rat septic shock with intraabdominal infection by E. coli and its possible mechanism. METHODS: 76 SD rats were divided into 3 groups randomly:control group (group C, n=16) without any special treatnent,of E. coli(1×1010 cfu@ L-1,15 ml@kg-1, ip), treated group (group by rhGH injection (2.25 U@kg-1@d-1, im). Group S and group T were further divided into 1d and 3d subgroups, respectively (n=15 each). Mean arterial pressure (MAP), levels of plasma TNFα and endotoxin and leukocyte count were determined on 1st day and 3rd day after E. coli injection. Another 39 SD rats were divided into groups C, S and T (n=13 each) just for observing survival rate within 1 week.RESULTS: (1) On 1st and 3rd day, MAP in group S decreased markedly, and MAP on 1st day lowered more than that of 3rd day (P＜0.01), while MAP in group T just decreased slightly. The survival rate within 1 week was much higher in group T (84.6 %) than in group S (46.2 %) (P＜0.01). (2)On 1st day, plasma TNFα and endotoxin elevated significantly in group S and group T (P＜0.05), and endotoxin in group S had more increase (P＜0.01). On 3rd day, TNFα in group S returned to the level of group C (P＞0.05),while TNFα in group T went down below the level of group C(P＜0.01). On 3rd day, endotoxin in group S declined, but was still higher than that of group C (P＜0.01), endotoxin in group T returned to the level of group C (P＞0.05). (3) On 1st day, neutrophil ratio in total leukocyte count in both group S and group T increased significantly (P＜0.05 vs group C).CONCLUSION: rhGH showed beneficial effects on rat septic shock. The possible mechanisms may involve the attenuation of bacteria/endotoxin translocation and decreased systemic endotoxin level; inhibition of the production and release of TNFα; improved circulatory function; improved systemic host defenses and maintenance of intestinal mucosa barrier.
文摘One of the difficulties frequently encountered in water quality assessment is that there are many factors and they cannot be assessed according to one factor, all the effect factors associated with water quality must be used. In order to overcome this issues the projection pursuit principle is introduced into water quality assessment, and projection pursuit cluster(PPC) model is developed in this study. The PPC model makes the transition from high dimension to one-dimension. In other words, based on the PPC model, multifactor problem can be converted to one factor problem. The application of PPC model can be divided into four parts: (1) to estimate projection index function Q(); (2) to find the right projection direction ; (3) to calculate projection characteristic value of the i th sample z-i, and (4) to draw comprehensive analysis on the basis of z-i. On the other hand, the empirical formula of cutoff radius R is developed, which is benefit for the model to be used in practice. Finally, a case study of water quality assessment is proposed in this paper. The results showed that the PPC model is reasonable, and it is more objective and less subjective in water quality assessment. It is a new method for multivariate problem comprehensive analysis.
基金Supported by the Medical Science Research Foundation of Sichuan Province,No.200054
文摘AIM:To assess the value of multidetector-row computed tomography (MDCT) in choosing retreatment methods of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) through evaluating the blood supply of low-density area of HCC after transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE).METHODS: Thirty-two patients with HCC after TACE treatment were examined by plain scanning and hepatic multidetector-row CT. The location of low-density area on plain scanning and the enhancement patterns on dynamic contrast-enhanced scanning were observed. At the same time, three-dimensional CT(3D CT) models of the volume rendering, curved multiplanar reformations, surface shaded display and maximum intensity projection reconstruction of the hepatic artery and portal vein were performed in 6 cases.RESULTS: In CT plain scanning data, low density areas of 32 cases of HCC after TACE treatment were divided into three types: peripheral, one-side-located and mixed types.In contrast-enhanced CT scans, the blood supply of low-density area was classified into four types: arterial blood supply (20 cases), portal blood supply (5 cases), arterial combined with portal blood supply (5 cases) and poor blood supply (2 cases). In 6 cases, the relationship between the low-density area and branches of hepatic artery as well asportal vein was shown by 3D CT.CONCLUSION: Hepatic MDCT is an effective method for evaluating the blood supply of low-density area and therapeutic effect of HCC after TACE treatment. Types of blood supply is helpful for the selection of retreatment.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.39925032
文摘AIM: To investigate the number, size, and status of lymph nodes within the mesorectum and to explore the prognostic significance of lymph node micrometastases in patients with rectal cancer. METHODS: Thirty-one patients with rectal cancer undergone total mesorectal excision between October 2001 and October 2002 were included. Mesorectal nodes retrieved from the resected specimens were detected with a combination of haematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and immunohistochemistry (IHC). The relations between lymph node metastases, micrometastases and postoperative recurrence were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 548 lymph nodes were harvested, with 17.7±8.2 nodes per case. The average number of metastatic nodes in HE-positive patients and micrometastatic nodes in IHC-positive patients was 5.2±5.1 per case and 2.2±1.3 per case, respectively. The mean size of all nodes and metastatic nodes was 4.1±1.8mm and 5.2±1.7mm in diameter, respectively. The mean size of micrometastatic nodes was 3.9±1.4mm in diameter. The size of the majority of mesorectal nodes (66.8%), metastatic nodes (52.6%), and micrometastatic nodes (79.5%) was less than 5mm in diameter. During a median follow-up period of 24.6±4.7mo, 5 patients (16.7%) had recurrence, of them 2 died and 3 survived. Another case died of tumor unrelated cause and was excluded. All 5 recurrent cases had 3 or more nodes involved, and one of them developed only lymph node micrometastases. The mean number of both metastatic and micrometastatic nodes per case differed significantly between the recurrent and non-recurrent groups (P<0.01 and P=0.01, respectively). CONCLUSION: The majority of lymph nodes, metastatic, and micrometastatic lymph nodes within the mesorectum are smaller than 5mm in diameter. The nodal status and the number of lymph nodes involved with tumor metastases and micrometastases are related to the rapid postoperative recurrence.
文摘AIM: To describe the correlation between innunostaining patterns of p16 and CDK4 and prognosis in colorectal carcinoma.METHODS: Paraffin sections of 74 cases of colorectal carcinoma were analysed immunohistochemically for expression of p16 and CDK4 proteins.RESULTS: Most carcinomas showed stronger p16 and CDK4immunostaining in the cytoplasm than the adenomas or the adjacent normal mucosa. Strong immunostaining of p16 was a predictor for better prognosis whereas strong cytoplasmic immunostaining of CDK4 was a predictor for poor prognosis.Both p16 and CDK4 immunostainings were correlated with histological grade or Dukes' stage.CONCLUSION: These results support the experimental evidence that interaction of expression of p16 and CDK4may play an important role in the Rb/p16 pathway, and the expression paterns of CDK4 and p16 may be imperative in the development of colorectal carcinoma, thus becoming a new prognostic marker in colorectal cancer.
