Abstract:Objective To analyze the effects of norepinephrine(NE) on the proliferation and migration of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and the related mechanism. Methods NE,adrenoceptor antagonist, and MAPK signal pathway blocker of various concentrations were used to treat peripheral EPCs derived from healthy adults. The proliferation potential, migration capacity and activation of ERK1/2 were assessed after different treatments. Results NE increased the proliferation potential of EPCs in a dose-dependent manner. The number of EPCs increased by (48.3±23.3)%, (70.5±35.6)%, (82.4±14.9)% and (100.3±48.1)% after treatment with NE at 0.01 μmol/L, 0.1 μmol/L, 1 μmol/L and 10 μmol/L, respectively. Addition of alpha adrenoceptor antagonist phentolamine, selective beta 2 adrenoceptor antagonist I127, JNK blocker SP600125 and ERK1/2 blocker A6355 could block the above effects of NE, and beta 1 adrenoceptor antagonist metoprolol and p38 blocker PD169318 failed to block the effects of NE. NE at 10 μmol/L significantly promoted the migration of EPCs (P<0.05). These effects could be blocked by addition of phentolamine (10 μmol/L) and I127 (10 μmol/L), but not by addition of metoprolol. NE(0.1, 1 and 10 μmol/L) activated ERK1/2 pathway in a dose-dependent manner, which could also be blocked by phentolamine and I127, but not by metoprolol. Conclusion NE can increase the proliferation potential and migration capacity of EPCs via activating ERK1/2 pathway with alpha and beta 2 adrenoceptor.

Abstract:Objective To establish a patch clamp and laser scanning confocal microscope synchronous real-time control system, and apply it in study of membranaceous calcium channel, so as to verify its effects. Methods By adding the patch clamp on the laser scanning confocal microscope, we established a patch clamp and laser scanning confocal microscope synchronous real-time control system using computer autocontrol technique. The system was used to observe the male rat membranaceous calcium channel in vitro, and the observation results were analyzed. Results We successfully established the patch clamp and laser scanning confocal microscope synchronous real-time control system. When the myocardial cells were stimulated, the system could observe the myocardial calcium spark by laser scanning confocal microscope and at the same time record calcium channel current signal by patch-clamp. Quantitative analysis showed that the time intervals between 2 adjacent calcium sparks were (10.055±0.021), (10.079±0.021) and (10.087±0.021) s, which met the stimulus interval for patch-clamp set (10 s). A single calcium spark had a diameter within 2 μm, and it experienced an average period of about 30 ms. It needed an average of 10 ms from the appearance of the spark to its peak concentrations, and it needed an average of 20 ms from its peak concentration to disappearance, which was consistent with the calcium spark theory. Conclusion A patch clamp and laser scanning confocal microscope synchronous real-time control system has been successfully established. The system is capable of performing whole-cell observation recording and determining the membranaceous calcium channel currents and its closing process by patch clamp; at the same time it can synchronously obtain the micro images of the calcium spark with laser scanning confocal microscope, locating changes of calcium ions and helping to understand the internal mechanism of the membrane calcium channels.

Abstract:Objective To observe the proliferation, migration and differentiation of highly enriched oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) in vitro. Methods OPCs were dissociated and purified by shaking method from cultured glia mixture, which was derived from postnatal 1 day SD rats. BrdU incorporation assay was applied to analyze the proliferation ability of OPCs. Transwell and reaggragration assay were employed to determine the migration ability of OPCs. In differentiation model, the maturation ability of OPCs was examined by immunostaining and Western blotting analysis of myelin basic protein (MBP). Results The stratification of glia mixture occurred 10 days after culture. The microglia was removed by first session of shaking, and there were multiple aggregated OPCs scattered on the surface of astrocyte layer. The separated OPCs were positive for NG2 and A2B5. Ara-C greatly inhibited the proliferation of OPCs as observed by BrdU incorporation assay. PDGF obviously promoted migration of OPCs in both Transwell assay and reaggregation models. The ratio of MBP positive cells (mature oligodendrocytes) was increased in the differentiation medium. Besides, Western blotting analysis showed that MBP in differentiation medium was greatly elevated compared to that in proliferation medium (P<0.01). Conclusion The in vitro cultured and purified OPCs can maintain their fundamental characteristics of proliferation, migration and differentiation.

Abstract:Objective To investigate the relationship of alpha fetoprotein (AFP) with activation of hepatic progenitor cells in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the prognosis of HCC patients. Methods The clinical data of 92 HCC patients who received curative hepatectomy were retrospectively analyzed. The patients included 76 males and 16 females, with a median age of 51 (ranging 25-72) years. Expression of AFP and CK19 protein was immunohistochemically stained and quantified. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to observe the influence of AFP expression on postoperative survival of patients. Cochran-armitage trend test was used to analyse the association of AFP expression with activation of progenitor cells (CK19 staining). Results Patients with high AFP expression had a significantly shorter survival than those with low AFP expression (P=0.021). The activation score of hepatic progenitor cells was positively correlated with serum AFP concentration (P=0.046) and AFP expression in tumor tissues (P<0.001). Conclusion AFP expression in HCC tissue predicts a poor prognosis. AFP is closely associated with activation of hepatic progenitor cells.

Abstract:Objective To explore the effect of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) on Notch 1 expression and cytokine secretion in human acute monocytic leukemia cell line THP1, so as to discuss the role of ox-LDL in atherosclerosis (AS). Methods THP1 cells were stimulated with PMA to induce human macrophages, which were then exposed to ox-LDL of different concentrations. The morphological changes of the cells was observed by phase contrast microscope. The expression of Notch1 mRNA was examined by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-PCR) and protein expression was measured by Western blotting analysis in the cells.The levels of vascular cell adhesive molecule-1(VCAM-1) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1(MCP-1) in supernatants were determined by ELISA. Results The macrophages differentiated into dendritic like cells 48 h after ox-LDL treatment. Ox-LDL treatment increased Notch1 mRNA and protein expression compared with the control group. Ox-LDL also significantly increased the levels of VCAM-1 and MCP-1 in the supernatant in a dose-dependent manner(P<0.05). The best effect of ox-LDL was seen at the concentration of 50 mg/L. Conclusion Ox-LDL stimulation can increase Notch 1 expression in THP1 cells; meanwhile, it can also promote the secretion of AS-related cytokines. The role of ox-LDL in AS might be partly mediated by Notch1.

Abstract:Objective To explore the possibility of using plasmid containing muti-copy of CpG ODN as the adjuvant for therapeutic vaccine against hepatitis B. MethodsA plasmid pKO-CG6 containing six copies of D type CpG ODN was constructed. The plasmid and the carrier plasmid pKO were used to stimulate peripheral blood monouclear cells (PBMC) of healthy or HBV infected subjects; then the proliferation of PBMCs and secretion of IFN-γ and IL-12 were examined. Recombinant HBsAg combined with either of the plasmid was used to immunize BALB/c mice, and immune responses to HBsAg were assayed. ResultsBoth plasmid pKO-CG6 and carrier plasmid pKO not only effectively activated the proliferation response of PBMCs from healthy controls and HBV infected subjects in vitro, but also promoted the production of IFN-γ and IL-12; the immuno-stimulation activity of pKO-CG6 was greatly stronger than that of the carrier plasmid pKO. In vivo study showed that although vector pKO could also act as immunological adjuvant for HBsAg in mice, plasmid pKO-CG6 elicited much stronger immune responses to HBsAg, especially the cell-mediated response. ConclusionPlasmid containing multi-copy of CpG ODN can effectively activate PBMCs of HBV infected subjects and enhance the immune responses to HBsAg in mice.

Abstract:Objective To investigate the relationship between STAT3 activity and sensitivity to cisplatin in prostate cancer cell lines. MethodsSTAT3 activity was examined by immunocytochemistry and Western blotting analysis in three prostate cancer cell lines: LNCaP, PC3 and DU145. Androgen-independent cell lines PC3 and DU145 were selected to examine the inhibitory effect of various concentrations of cisplatin (2 ng/ml, 20 ng/ml, 200 ng/ml, 2 μg/ml and 20 μg/ml). STAT3 activity of DU145 cell line was re-examined by Western blotting analysis after treatment with low concentration of cisplatin. ResultsThe STAT3 activity of androgen-independent cell lines PC3 and DU145 was higher than that of androgen-dependent cell line LNCaP. The sensitivity of DU145 cells to cisplatin was lower than that of PC3 cells with lower STAT3 activity. Treatment with low concentration of cisplatin for a long period caused STAT3 activation in DU145. ConclusionOur results suggest that STAT3 may play a role in regulating the sensitivity of prostate cancer cells to cisplatin.

Abstract:Objective To investigate the correlation of gene polymorphisms of TNF-α and its receptor with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) susceptibility and the related serological markers in the Han nationality living in northwest China. MethodsThe gene polymorphisms of TNF-α and its receptor (TNFA -857C>T, TNFA -863C>A,TNFA -308G>A,TNFA -238G>A,TNFR1-383A>C,TNFR2-exonT>G) were determined by high resolution melting (HRM) in 452 RA patients and 356 controls in a case-control manner. Anti-cyclic citrullinated protein antibodies (anti-CCP) and rheumatoid factors (RF) were measured by clinical conventional methods, and their association with the gene polymorphisms of TNF-α and its receptor was analyzed. ResultsSignificant differences were found in the distribution frequencies of TNFA -308GA and -863CA between RA cases and healthy controls (P=0.001,P=0.002), but not in the frequencies of TNFA -238GA,TNFA -238AA,TNFR2-exonTG or TNFR2-exonGG (P=0.701,P=0.999,P=0.825, P=0.330). In addition, significant differences were also found in the distribution frequencies of TNFA haplotypes of -238G/-308A/-863C(GAC), -238G/-308G/-863A(GGA) and -238G/-308G/-863C(GGC) between the two groups (P=0.016, P=0.033, P=0.023). Furthermore, we found that RA serological markers (RF, anti-CCP) were not significantly correlated with the gene polymorphisms of TNF-α and its receptors. ConclusionTNFA -308GA and TNFA -863CA are associated with RA susceptibility in Han nationality living in northwest China, so are the TNFA haplotypes of GAC, GGA and GGC. Gene polymorphisms TNF-α and its receptor have no significant correlation with RA serological markers.

Abstract:Objective To investigate the role of miR-302e in the pathogenesis of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). MethodsThe relative expression levels of miR-302e in T cells (CD3+), B cells (CD19+) and monocyte (CD14+) of 10 healthy controls and 12 PBC patients were detected by RT-PCR. The THP-1 cells transfected with miR-302e mimics or inhibitors and the monocytes from PBC patients and healthy controls were treated with 100 ng/ml bacteria lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Twenty-four hours later, the concentrations of IL-6 and TNF-α in the culture medium were measured by ELISA. ResultsThe monocytes of PBC patients had a significantly lower miR-302e expression compared to those of healthy controls (P<0.01). miR-302e inhibitors significantly enhanced the production of IL-6 and TNF-α in THP-1 cells exposed to LPS, and miR-302e mimics significantly decreased their production (P<0.05). When treated with LPS, the monocytes from PBC patients produced significantly more IL-6 and TNF-α compared to those from healthy controls(P<0.05). ConclusionDecreased miR-302e expression in monocytes of PBC patients may enhance IL-6 and TNF-α production and thus participate in the pathogenesis of PBC.

Abstract:Objective To observe the protective effect of α-lipoic acid (ALA) and Tongluo recipe(TLR) against injury of glomerular visceral epithelial cells in diabetic rats, so as to discuss the possible mechanism for injury of glomerular visceral epithelial cells in diabetes. MethodsRat diabetes model was induced by high-fat diet and a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (35 mg/kg). The diabetic model rats were randomly divided into three groups (n=8): diabetes mellitus (DM) group,DM+TLR and DM+ALA group; another 8 rats served as normal controls (CON group). Rats in the DM+TLR group received 0.4 g·kg-1·d-1 TLR and DM+ALA group received 0.1 g·kg-1·d-1 ALA throughout the experiment. Rats in the DM group and control (CON) group were given celiac perfusion of distilled water once at the same time and volume. After 12 weeks of treatment, kidney mass/body mass index, 24 h urinary protein, blood urea nitrogen, and urinary albumin/Cr were determined in each group. The number and the density of podocytes in glomerulis were measured by stereological dissector/fractionator methods. The expression of nephrin in renal cortical tissue was detected by Western blotting analysis. The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and the content of malondialdehyde (MDA)were measured in the plasma and renal cortical tissues. ResultsAfter 12 weeks, the kidney mass/body mass index, 24 h urinary protein and urinary albumin/Cr in DM group were significantly increased compared to control group (P＜0.01); the number and density of podocytes in the glomerulis and nephrin expression in DM group were significantly decreased (P＜0.01). The kidney mass/body mass index, 24 h urinary protein and urinary albumin/Cr in DM+TLR and DM+ALA groups were significantly decreased compared to DM group (P<0.01); the number and density of podocytes and nephrin expression in DM+TLR and DM+ALA groups were significantly increased compared to DM group (P＜0.01, P＜0.05). GSH-Px and SOD activities were significantly decreased in the plasma (P＜0.01) and renal cortical tissue (P＜0.01) in DM, DM+ALA and DM+TLR groups compared to those in the CON group, and the content of MDA was significantly increased (P＜0.01, P＜0.05). GSH-Px and SOD activities were significantly increased in the plasma and renal cortical tissue (P both＜0.01) and MDA content was significantly decreased in DM+TLR and DM+ALA groups (P＜0.01, P＜0.05)compared to those in the DM group. No significant differences were found between DM+ALA group and DM+TLR group concerning the above parameters. ConclusionTLR can ameliorate podocyte injury in diabetic rats, which might be associated with its anti-oxidative effect.

Abstract:Objective To investigate the protective effect of hydrogen-rich lactated Ringer’s solution (HRS) against intestine injury induced by extensive burn in Sprague-Dewley (SD) rat model after delayed fluid resuscitation. MethodsThirty-six male SD rats were randomly divided into three groups (n=12): sham-burn group(S group), burn plus normal lactated Ringer’s solution(NRS) group (BR group) and burn plus hydrogen-rich lactated Ringer’s solution(HRS) group (BH group). Rats in the S group were immersed into 37℃ water without fluid replacement; those in BR group and BH group were subjected to 30% total body surface area (TBSA) Ⅲ degree full-thickness scald. At first, a total of 2 ml·(1% TBSA)-1·kg-1 of HRS or NRS were replaced at 7 h post-burn and half volume of the total solution was replaced at the 9 h and 17 h. All rats were sacrificed at 24 h. Small intestine tissues were removed for H-E staining and determination of MDA content, MPO and SOD activity; and the levels of the IL-1β and TNF-α were determined by ELISA. ResultsThe intestinal injury was relieved in BH group compared with BR group. The intestinal MDA content (P<0.05) and activities of MPO and SOD (P<0.01) were all decreased in BH group. IL-1β and TNF-α levels in BH group were significantly lower than those in the BR group (P<0.01). ConclusionHRS can attenuate intestine injury induced by extensive burn after delayed fluid resuscitation. It can decrease the oxidative injury following extensive burn and delay fluid resuscitation, and it can also suppress the generation of proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β and TNF-α.

Abstract:Objective To measure serum soluble ST2 level in patients with heart failure and to evaluate its diagnostic value for heart failure. MethodsWe selected 192 heart failure patients who were hospitalized in the Cardiology Department of East Hospital, Tongji University during Jul. 2009 to Dec. 2010. The selected patients were divided into different groups according to the classification criterion of New York Heart Association(NYHA). The serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, brain natriuretic peptide, cardiac troponin I (cTnI), and creatine kinase isomer-MB were all examined after admission. All the patients received cardiac ultrasound examination. The soluble ST2 levels were determined by ELISA. ResultsThe level of sST2 in heart failure patients was significantly higher than that in healthy controls(P=0.003). The diagnosis sensitivity and specificity of soluble ST2 for heat failure were 88.2% and 77.8%, respectively. Correlation analysis showed that sST2 value was correlated with B-type natriuretic peptide(r=0.427, P=0.01), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein(r=0.252, P=0.023), troponin(r=0.330, P=0.041) and left ventricular ejection fraction(r=-0.354, P=0.047). ConclusionST2 is correlated with B-type natriuretic peptide, left ventricular ejection fraction and so on, and it can be used for diagnosis of heart failure. High ST2 level indicates poor short-term prognosis of heart failure patients.

Abstract:Objective To investigate the modulatory effect of progesterone on peripheral pain. Methods Female SD rats were divided into four groups, namely, a vehicle group, a progesterone (500 μg) group, an RU38486 (20 μg) group and a progesterone (500 μg) plus RU38486 (20 μg) group. Von-Frey hair test was adopted to determine the peripheral mechanical pain thresholds at the following 3 time points: preinjection,30 min and 60 min after subcutaneous injection at the neck. Local effect of progesterone was also tested in SD rats by Von-Frey hair test 15 min after plantar injection of progesterone (25 μg)and normal saline (control). Results The peripheral mechanical pain threshold was significantly increased 30 min after subcutaneous injection of progesterone at the neck compared with the vehicle group, but the threshold was not significantly different 60 min after injection. RU38486 injection at the neck significantly decreased the pain threshold of plantar at 30 min and 60 min after injection,and the peripheral mechanical pain threshold was not significantly altered at 30 min and 60 min after co-injection of progesterone and RU38486.RU38486 could block the pain inhibiting effect of progesterone. The peripheral mechanical pain threshold was also increased 15 min after plantar injection of progesterone compared with the control group. Conclusion Our findings suggest that progesterone can inhibit the peripheral mechanical pain, which might be mediated by progesterone receptor.

Abstract:Objective To study the role of myeloperoxidase (MPO) in the relationship between smoking and risk of pancreatic cancer. Methods A case-control study was adopted in the present study. Totally 71 patients with newly diagnosed pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (pathologically confirmed) and 71 age- and sex-matched healthy persons were included. All the subjects were interviewed using a self-designed questionnaire concerning the age, sex, body mass index (BMI), smoking, alcohol consumption, and history of diabetes mellitus. The venous blood samples were collected from patients before treatment and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure the plasma MPO; the subjects were divided into high and low MPO groups based on the median MPO value of controls. Unconditional logistic regression model was used to study the relationship of smoking with risk of pancreatic cancer, risk of pancreatic cancer with high plasma MPO, and risk of pancreatic cancer with low plasma MPO. Results After adjusted for age, sex, alcohol consumption, and BMI, smoking significantly increased the risk of pancreatic cancer (OR=2.74, 95%CI: 1.12-6.74; P=0.028). Besides, smoking was also significantly associated with increased risk of pancreatic cancer with high plasma MPO (>196 IU/L) (OR=3.81, 95%CI: 1.17-12.44; P=0.026), and was not significantly associated with the risk of pancreatic cancer with low plasma MPO (≤196 IU/L) (OR=2.51, 95%CI: 0.82-7.72; P=0.108). Conclusion Smoking may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer. High plasma MPO level may play an important role in the relationship between smoking and risk of pancreatic cancer.

Abstract:Objective To compare the efficacy of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy(LRN) and open radical nephrectomy(ORN) for clinical stage T2 renal cell carcinoma. Methods A total of 138 patients underwent radical nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma, including 63 by LRN and 75 by ORN. Renal cell carcinoma was pathologically confirmed in all the patients. The patients were followed up for 5-36 months, with a median of 24 months. The surgical blood loss, operation time, and time of starting food postoperatively, and hospital stay were compared between the two groups. Results The operation time was 90-385 min (a mean of [213±61.6] min) for LRN and 55-320 min (a mean of [173±52.3] min)for ORN (P=0.000). The blood loss was 30-1 600 ml (a mean of [220±291.8] ml) for LRN and 50-1 400 ml (a mean of [319±244.1] ml) for ORN (P=0.032). The fasting period of surgery was 1-4 d (a mean of [2.4±0.82] d) for LRN and 2-5 d (a mean of [3.1±1.02] d) for ORN(P=0.000).The hospital stay was 4-15 d (a mean of [7.3±2.50] d) for LRN and 6-15 d (a mean of [9.3±2.25] d) for ORN (P=0.000). Conclusion The efficacy of LRN is similar to that of ORN. LRN has the advantages of minimal invasiveness and rapid postoperative recovery. The complication of LRN is similar to ORN, and it might be an alternative treatment for clinical T2 stage renal cell carcinomas.

Abstract:Objective To observe the time needed for re-acclimatization in motion-sickness trainees who were in degeneration status without training for three months after acclimatization and were again trained in heat-dampness environment,so as to investigate the rules for acclimatization degeneration and re-acclimatization of motion-sickness. Methods Twenty-nine subjects with established acclimatization stopped training in heat-dampness environment for 3 months, and then they were trained again in the heat-dampness environment (39℃ and 85% humidity) by the same course and similar intensity using Criolis acceleration rotational chair. Results The time period needed for re-acclimatization was greatly shorter (19 days for 27 trainees, 2 withdrew) than the time needed for initial establishment of acclimatization (30 days) with the same level of acclimatization. Conclusion The time period needed for re-acclimatization is shorter in motion-sickness trainees who are in the degeneration status of acclimatization and receive training again in heat-dampness environment.

Abstract:Objective To investigate the impact of different coil packing densities on intra-secular hemodynamics during embolization of intracranial aneurysm, so as to provide the theoretical evidence for endovascular treatment of intracranical aneurysms. Methods Based on digital subtraction angiography image data, the vessel numerical models with different packing densities were constructed using computational fluid dynamics software. The hemodynamic parameters, including the wall shear stress (WSS) and flow steamline and pressure, were obtained from the numerical simulation using Ansys CFX software. Results The aneurysm volume and low WSS area in the aneurysm sac were decreased after the first session of embolization compared with before treatment; the vortex in the aneurysm was decreased and the aneurysmal flow velocity had no significant changes. Meanwhile, the WSS at the aneurysm dome increased to 2.13 Pa. Continuous embolization greatly decreased the overall aneurysmal flow velocity and the aneurysmal flow velocity at the distal part of the residual aneurysm neck. The average wall pressure of the inflow tract had no noticeable changes before and after embolization. Conclusion The intra-saccular hemodynamics during embolization of intracranial aneurysm can be influenced by the coil packing density and coil distribution in the aneurysm.

Abstract:Objective To investigate the expression of heparinase (HPA) and miRNAs that may regulate HPA expression in the gastric cancer tissue. Methods The expression levels of HPA were determined by real-time PCR in the gastric cancer tissues. Based on the binding of miRNAs with the 3′ untranslated region (3′-UTR) of HPA, we screened for miRNAs targeting HPA using bioinformatics method and determined the expression levels of these miRNAs in the gastric cancer tissues using real-time PCR. Results The expression of HPA was higher in the gastric cancer tissues compared with those in the tumor-adjacent and normal tissues. Bioinformatics analysis showed that miR-18b,miR-137,miR-502,and miR-299-3p might inhibit HPA expression by binding to its 3′-UTR. Real-time PCR analysis revealed lower expression levels of miR-18b,miR-137,miR-502,and miR-299-3p in the gastric cancer tissues compared with in the adjacent and normal tissues. Conclusion HPA is highly expressed in the gastric cancer tissues; miR-18b, miR-137, miR-502 and miR-299-3p, which may target HPA, are lowly expressed, indicating miRNAs targeting HPA may participate in the carcinogenesis of gastric cancer.

Abstract:Objective To retrospectively analyze the effectiveness of different surgical methods in treatment of carotid stenoses and occlusion. Methods From Mar. 2002 to Mar. 2011, a total of 82 patients (87 sides) with carotid stenosis or occlusion received different treatments. Seventy-six of them received endarterectomy, including the traditional cut and sew in 6 sides (3 patching), eversion endarterectomy in 70 sides (including 2 cases receiving double-side endarterectomy). Stenting was performed on 4 sides, and bypass operation was used in 7 cases. All the patients had severe symptomatic carotid artery stenosis and occlusion (70%-100%). Results There was no stroke or death during or after the procedure. Subcutanous hematoma occurred in 4 cases, and 12 cases had the tongue inclining to the lesion side. Conclusion Individualized surgical intervention can achieve satisfactory effect in patients with symptomatic carotid artery stenosis and occlusion.

Abstract:Objective To investigate the therapeutic effects of Erqi decoction (EQD) for treatment of acute radiation enteritis in SD rats and the related mechanism. Methods A total of 53 SD rats were randomly divided into normal group model group, EQD group and Baitouwengtang(BTWT) group, with 8 rats in the normal control group and 15 in each of the rest groups. Rats in the latter three groups were exposed to a single dose of 10 Gy 6 MV higher-energy X-rays on the abdominal region to establish the acute radiation enteritis models. Then all the rats were intragastrically administered with corresponding agents for a consecutive of 7 days. Then 10 ml ileum samples in ileocecal junction were obtained from each animal under general anesthesia. The morphologic indices were examined by light microscopy and the image analysis system. The nitric oxide (NO) levels, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the small intestinal homogenates were measured by spectrophotometer. Results The EQD group had significantly higher villus height ([243±9] vs [211±21] μm ), deeper crypt ([171±12] vs [142±10] μm ), thicker mucosa ([460±21] vs [420±37] μm) and entire wall thickness ([609±19] vs [569±21] μm) than the model group (P＜0.05), and the above parameters were not significantly different between the EQD group and the BTWT group. EQ group had significantly lower NO level ([0.88±0.11] vs [1.65±0.12] μmol/g), higher MDA level ([3.20±0.12] vs [4.75±0.24] nmol/mg) and lower SOD activity ([212±13] vs [150±11] U/mg, P＜0.05) in the intestine compared with the model group (P＜0.05). EQD group had significantly lower NO and MDA levels and higher SOD activity compared with the BTWT group (P<0.05). Conclusion It is indicated that EQD has protective effect against intestine mucosa damage in acute radiation enteritis rat model by reducing the intestinal NO generation, improving intestinal SOD activity, reducing MDA generation. Anti-free radical injury may be one of the mechanisms for treatment of acute radiation enteritis.

Abstract:How to maintain a good long-term graft function is currently the most prominent problem in renal transplantation. Due to inefficiency of the existing diagnostic tools, extensive studies have been made to search for novel biomarkers and have made rapid progression. Here we aimed to make a brief review of important biomarkers that have been shown relevant to the long-term outcome of renal graft.

Abstract:Amino acids and small peptides are important active constituents and metabolites of microorganism. With the progression in modern analytical techniques, the qualitative and quantitative analysis methods of amino acids and small peptides from microorganism also keep improving. In this paper, the pretreatment methods were discussed from the quenching, extracting, derivatization and concentration steps. Furthermore, the properties and practical application of the commonly used separation and detection methods were discussed. Meanwhile, the prospects of the analysis methods for amino acids and small peptides from microorganism were also highlighted.

Abstract:Thromboplastin reagents were made from natural tissues of human or animals before the emergence of tissue factor (TF) which can be purified in 1990s. In recent years, highly purified recombinant tissue factor (rTF) or soluble tissue factor (sTF) has been used to prepare thromboplastin reagents. This article reviewed the evolution of technique for preparing recombinant tissue factor-based thromboplastin reagents both at home and abroad, and summarized the advantages of recombinant tissue factor and analyzed the future of thromboplastin reagents. It has been pointed out that highly sensitive and stable thromboplastin reagents are needed in the future.

Abstract:Objective To study the anesthetic effect of Sumianxin Ⅱ combined with pentobarbital sodium on the abdominal zipper model with miniature pigs, so as to explore a safe and reliable anesthetic method for establishing abdominal zipper model with miniature pigs.Methods Abdominal zipper models were induced with 12 miniature pigs by anesthesia with Sumianxin Ⅱ (0.1 ml/kg, im) and pentobarbital sodium(0.2 ml/kg, iv). The physiological parameter, eyelid reflex, corneal reflex, anal reflex, sedation effect, analgesic effect, muscle relaxant effect, and anesthesia duration were all observed.Results The eyelid reflex, corneal reflex and anal reflex of the 12 miniature pigs disappeared 15 min after intravenous anesthesia; and all the animals were in a good sedation, analgesia and muscle relaxation state, which maintained for 75 min. The induction period of anesthesia was (6.22±0.84) min, anesthesia duration was (79.9±3.6) min, and analepsia period was (66.1±3.7) min, providing a satisfactory anesthesia period of more than 80 min.Conclusion Intravenous Sumianxin Ⅱcombined with intramuscular pentobarbital sodium is a simple, safe, effective and reliable method for establishing abdominal zipper model with miniature pigs.

Abstract:Objective To investigate the role of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in the pathogenesis of adenomyosis. Methods MCP-1 was examined by immunohistochemistry method and real-time PCR in the eutopic endometrium and ectopic endometrium of 36 patients with adenomyosis, and the results were compared with those of controls. Results MCP-1 contents in the eutopic endometrium and ectopic endometrium of patients with adenomyosis were significantly higher than those of normal controls(P<0.05). The contents in ectopic endometrium tissue was significantly higher than that in eutopic endometrium tissue (P<0.05), and the contents in the two tissues were significantly correlated with each other (r=0.87, P<0.01) .Conclusion MCP-1 may be involved in the pathogenesis of adenomyosis, but the specific molecular mechanisms need further study.