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The present study isolated 17 compounds from the tubers of Bletilla striata (Orchidaceae), using various chromatographic techniques. Their structures were identified based on their physical-chemical properties and spectroscopic analyses. Among them, two new 2-isobutylmalates, named bletimalates A (1) and B (2), together with other fifteen known compounds (3-17), were isolated and identified. Additionally, compounds 3, 4, and 8 were isolated from this plant for the first time., (Copyright © 2016 China Pharmaceutical University. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

A new multianalyte immunoassay was designed to screen furaltadone metabolite 5-morpholinomethyl-3-amino-2-oxazolidone (AMOZ), malachite green (MG), and leucomalachite green (LMG) in aquatic products using a bispecific monoclonal antibody (BsMAb). Gradient drug mutagenesis methods were separately used to prepare an anti-3-nitrobenzaldehyde-derivatized AMOZ (3-NPAMOZ) hybridoma cell line that was hypoxanthine-guanine-phosphoribosyltransferase (HGRPT) deficient and an anti-LMG hybridoma cell line that was thymidine kinase (TK) deficient. BsMAb recognizing 3-NPAMOZ and LMG was generated using hybrid-hybridomas of HGRPT and TK deficient cell lines. For AMOZ and LMG, respectively, the BsMAb-based indirect competitive ELSIA (ic-ELISA) values of 1.7 ng/mL and 45.3 ng/mL and detection limits of 0.2 ng/mL and 4.8 ng/mL. To establish the ic-ELISA, 3-NPAMOZ derivatized from AMOZ with 3-nitrobenzaldehyde and LMG reduced from MG by potassium borohydride was recognized by BsMAb. Recoveries of AMOZ, MG, and LMG in aquatic products were satisfactory and correlated with HPLC analysis. Thus, the multianalyte ic-ELISA is suitable for rapid quantification of AMOZ, MG, and LMG in aquatic products.

Objective To observe the effect of the expanded human umbilical cord blood CD34+cells in ischemic limb of mice and analyse the relationship between the CD34+cells and angiogenesis. Methods Human umbilical cord blood was collected and CD34+cells were separated for expanding. Mice limbs ischemia models were established (n=15) and randomly divided into three groups:expanded CD34+cells group (n=5),fresh CD34+cells group (n=5),and control group(n=5). CD34+cells were detected by DiI dye tracing and antihuman nuclear antigen antibody(HNA) immunohistochemical staining. The improvement of blood reperfusion was evaluated by indicators including limb temperature,CD31 staining,and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) mRNA expression. Results On days 14 (t=5.421,P=0.001;t=0.616,P=0.000) and 28(t=10.780,P=0.000; t=12.123,P=0.000),both expanded CD34+cells group and fresh CD34+cells group enjoyed better temperature improvement. Days 28 later,the vascular densities in the expanded CD34+cells group and the fresh CD34+cells group were 592.3±24.6 (t=26.386,P=0.000) and 530.7±25.5 (t=21.502,P=0.000),which were significantly higher than that in control group 219.7±19.9. The TGF-β1 mRNA expression in the expanded CD34+cells group and the fresh CD34+cells group were (0.578±0.050) copies (t=12.376,P=0.000) and (0.504±0.080) copies (t=7.098,P=0.000),both over control group [(0.224±0.040)copies]. Conclusions In vitro culture of cord blood CD34+cells can emigrate to ischemic zone and induce angiogenesis to alleviate ischemia. Thus,it may provide a treatment option for lower limb ischemia.

Objective: To clarify the antibacterial material basis of Polygonum capitatum., Methods: D101 macroporous resin and MCI column chromatographic methods were used for the preparation of various fractions,while UHPLC-UV methods were used to establish the chromatogram for the fractions, and the chromatographic peaks were identified by comparing their retention times and UV spectra with the authentic standards; uniform design was adopted for the preparation of samples with different peak concentrations,and their antibacterial effects were evaluated by determining their MIC against Escherichia coli,the bacterium generally found in urinary tract infections. Grey relational analysis was employed to investigate the relationship between the 1 / MIC values and the peak areas and to reveal the antibacterial material basis of Polygonum capitatum., Results: Peaks 1( gallic acid),6( epicatechin),8( catechin),13( rutin),17( quercetin-3-O-( 2″-O-galloyl)-β-D-glucopyranoside) and 18( quercetin) showed a better correlation( grey relational grades were higher than 0. 8) to the antibacterial activity., Conclusion: The antibacterial activity of Polygonum capitatum is attributed to the holistic effects of most of the constitutional compounds,and gallic acid,epicatechin,catechin,rutin,quercetin-3-O-( 2″-O-galloyl)-β-D-glucopyranoside and quercetin are the main antibacterial material basis of Polygonum capitatum. This study forms a strong basis for the quality control and exploitation of Polygonum capitatum and its products.

Objective: To develop a sensitive and reliable ultra performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry ( UPLC-MS / MS) method for simultaneous determination and pharmacokinetics of protocatechuic acid, kaempferol biotin glucoside and quercitrin in rat plasma, and study their pharmacokinetic characteristics in rats., Methods: Three compounds were simultaneously determined by UPLC-MS / MS on Waters BEH C18( 50 mm × 2. 1 mm,1. 7 μm) column. The mobile phase was 0. 1% acetonitrile formic acid and0. 1% aqueous formic acid, and programmed in a linear gradient mode. The compounds were ionized in the electrospray ionization ion source of the mass spectrometer and detected in MRM mode., Results: The t1 /2of protocatechuic acid,kaempferol biotin glucoside and quercitrin after intravenous injection were( 41. 9 ± 12. 3),( 71. 3 ± 56. 8) and( 90. 3 ± 74. 8) min. The Cmaxwere( 1. 7 ± 0. 7) μg / m L,( 2. 1 ± 0. 9) μg/m L,( 8. 7 ± 3. 7) μg/m L., Conclusion: The established method is specific,rapid,accurate and sensitive,and is proved to meet the requirements of biological sample analyses,and is suitable for the concentration determination of protocatechuic acid, kaempferol biotin glucoside and quercitrin in rat plasma, three compounds are all best fitted to the two-compartment open pharmacokinetic model.

Ultralong (∼25-30 μm) surface-Pt-rich Au93Pt7 alloy nanowires (ANWs) were achieved by a directional coalescence between spherical nanoparticles. Also, the ANWs exhibit superior electrocatalytic activity and long-term durability towards ethanol oxidation, ∼12 times in the mass activity better than the state-of-the-art commercial Pt/C catalyst.

Nanoscale lasers are ideal light-signal sources for integrated photonic devices. Most of the present lasers made of dielectric materials are restricted to being larger than half the wavelength of the optical field. Plasmon lasers made from metallic nanostructures can help to break the diffraction limit, yet they suffer from low optical pump efficiencies and low quality factors. Integrating dielectric lasers with plasmonic waveguides to construct hybrid material systems may circumvent these problems and combine the advantages of the two components. Here we demonstrate the nanoscale output of dielectric lasers via photon-plasmon coupling in rationally designed perovskite/silver heterostructures. The perovskite crystals offer the gain and high-Q cavity for low-threshold laser generation, while the embedded silver nanowires (AgNWs) help to output the lasing modes efficiently in the form of surface plasmons. The output coupling can be modulated by controlling the resonant modes of the two-dimensional perovskite microcavities. The results would pave an alternative avenue to ultrasmall light sources as well as fundamental studies of light-matter interactions.

Background: Therapeutic angiogenesis has been shown to promote blood vessel growth and improve tissue perfusion. Nerve growth factor (NGF) has been reported to play an important role in both physiological and pathological angiogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the effects of NGF on angiogenesis and skeletal muscle fiber remodeling in a murine model of hindlimb ischemia and study the relationship between NGF and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in angiogenesis., Methods: Twenty-four mice were randomly allocated to normal control group (n = 6), blank control group (n = 6), VEGF gene transfection group (n = 6), and NGF gene transfection group (n = 6). The model of left hindlimb ischemia model was established by ligating the femoral artery. VEGF165plasmid (125 μg) and NGF plasmid (125 μg) was injected into the ischemic gastrocnemius of mice from VEGF group and NGF group, respectively. Left hindlimb function and ischemic damage were assessed with terminal points at 21th day postischemia induction. The gastrocnemius of four groups was tested by hematoxylin-eosin staining, proliferating cell nuclear antigen and CD34 immunohistochemistry staining, and myosin ATPase staining. NGF and VEGF protein expression was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay., Results: On the 21th day after surgery, the functional assessment score and skeletal muscle atrophy degree of VEGF group and NGF group were significantly lower than those of normal control group and blank control group. The endothelial cell proliferation index and the capillary density of VEGF group and NGF group were significantly increased compared with normal control group and blank control group (P < 0.05). The NGF and VEGF protein expression of NGF group showed a significant rise when compared with blank control group (P < 0.05). Similarly, the VEGF protein expression of VEGF group was significantly higher than that of blank control group (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference of the NGF protein expression between VEGF group and blank control group (P > 0.05). The type I skeletal muscle fiber proportion in gastrocnemius of NGF group and VEGF group was significantly higher than that of blank control group (P < 0.05)., Conclusions: NGF transfection can promote NGF and VEGF protein expression which not only can induce angiogenesis but also induce type I muscle fiber expression in ischemic limbs.

Objective: Low-frequency ultrasound (US) in combination with microbubbles (MBs) is able to inhibit the growth of VX2 rabbit liver tumors. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of using percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI) followed by low-frequency ultrasound and microbubbles (USMB) to inhibit VX2 tumor growth., Methods: Eighteen New Zealand rabbits with hepatic VX2 tumors were divided into three groups: PEI, low-frequency ultrasound and MBs followed by PEI (USMB + PEI), and PEI followed by USMB (PEI + USMB). PEI was performed by ultrasound-guided injection of 95% anhydrous alcohol into internal liver tumors in rabbits twice a week for 2 weeks. The US parameters were 20 kHz, 2 W/cm(2), 40% duty cycle, 5 min, and once every other day for 2 weeks. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to observe tumors before and after treatment, to examine changes in the tumors, and to measure the diameters of the tumors. All animals were followed up for 180 days after tumor implantation. Autopsy was performed at the end of the scheduled follow-up or immediately after death. Anatomically observed metastatic sites included the liver, lung, abdomen, and pelvic cavity. The survival time of all rabbits was recorded., Results: After 4 weeks of treatment, on MRI, the tumor diameters in the PEI, USMB + PEI, and PEI + USMB groups were 8.33 ± 1.83, 19 ± 2.61, and 4.5 ± 1.22 mm, respectively. There was a significant difference in tumor size indicated by MRI in the three groups. Tumor size was smaller in the PEI + USMB group than in the PEI and USMB + PEI groups, with t = 4.54, p = 0.0062, and t = 16.38, p < .0001, respectively. The PEI + USMB group showed the fewest metastasis sites (χ(2) = 11.7333, p = 0.0194) and the longest survival period (χ(2) = 7.448, p = 0.0241)., Conclusion: Percutaneous ethanol injection followed by low-frequency ultrasound and microbubbles can be effective in inhibiting rabbit liver tumors and prolonging survival time.

Objective: To study the chemical constituents from Zingiberis Rhizome Carbonisata. g., Methods: Compounds were isolated by Sephadex LH-20,ODS,MCI and silica gel column chromatography. Their structures were elucidated by physicochemical property and spectral analysis., Results: 16 compounds were isolated and identified as sitost-5-en-3β-ol acetate( 1),dibutyl phthalate( 2),4-[2-( 5-butylfuran-2-yl) ethyl]-2-methoxyphenol( 3),β-sitosterol( 4),8-paradol( 5),10-gingerdione( 6),6-shogaol( 7),6-paradol( 8),3,5-diacetoxy-6-gingerdiol( 9),1,2-benzenediol( 10),zingiberone( 11),6-gingerol( 12),1,2,4,5-tetrahydroxybenzene( 13),stigmasterol acetate( 14),8-dehydrogingerdione( 15) and 3,5-diacetoxy-7-( 4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1-( 4,5-dihydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl) heptane( 16)., Conclusion: All the compounds are isolated from Zingiberis Rhizome Carbonisata for the first time. And compounds 2,10,11,and13 are generated in the process of processing.

Explorations of 1D nanostructures have led to great progress in the area of nanophotonics in the past decades. Based on either dielectric or metallic materials, a variety of 1D photonic devices have been developed, such as nanolasers, waveguides, optical switches, and routers. What's interesting is that these dielectric systems enjoy low propagation losses and usually possess active optical performance, but they have a diffraction-limited field confinement. Alternatively, metallic systems can guide light on deep subwavelength scales, but they suffer from high metallic absorption and can work as passive devices only. Thus, the idea to construct a hybrid system that combines the merits of both dielectric and metallic materials was proposed. To date, unprecedented optical properties have been achieved in various 1D hybrid systems, which manifest great potential for functional nanophotonic devices. Here, the focus is on recent advances in 1D dielectric/metallic hybrid systems, with a special emphasis on novel structure design, rational fabrication techniques, unique performance, as well as their wide application in photonic components. Gaining a better understanding of hybrid systems would benefit the design of nanophotonic components aimed at optical information processing., (© 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.)

Melanoma is a malignant cutaneous cancer of high metastasis and lethal rates. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays an important role in the embryonic developmental process that is often activated during tumorigenesis and metastasis. In this study, we integrated of mRNA and miRNA transcriptome sequencing data of melanocyte and melanoma cell lines to identify genes involved in the process of tumor EMT in the first place, and uncovered 11 miRNAs including miR-130a-3p, miR-130b-3p, miR-125a-5p, miR-30a-3p, miR-195-5p, miR-345-5p, miR-509-3-5p, miR-374a-5p, miR-509-5p, miR-148a-3p and miR-330-3p, negatively related with EMT genes using the Mirsystem software. Bioinformatics analysis with target genes of these miRNAs revealed two networks closely related with cellular development and cell-to-cell interactions, as well as multiple signaling pathways participating in EMT. Validation of the 11 miRNAs with molecular biology experiments demonstrated that four miRNAs regulated oncogenes in melanomas, including miR-195-5p, miR-130a-3p, miR-509-5p, and miR-509-3-5p. Our study integrates two kinds of omics data to screen for EMT-related miRNAs, providing a new research idea in the precision genomics of cancer research.

In order to investigate and assess the pollution level of phthalic acid esters (PAEs) in farm soils and products from typical agricultural fields in areas of Zhongshan City, Guangdong Province, South China, 65 topsoil and 37 agricultural product samples were collected and contents of 6 PAEs compounds that classified by the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as priority pollutants were determined by the GC-FID. The results indicated that total contents of the PAEs (∑ PAEs) in soils ranged from 0. 14 to 1. 14 mg x kg(-1), and the mean value was 0.43 mg x kg(-1), with the detected ratio of 100%. Various concentrations of PAEs differed in three land-use types were ordered by vegetable soil > orchard soil > paddy soil. Comparing with six U.S. EPA priority pollutants of PAEs, the contents of Di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) and Dimethyl phthalate ( DMP) in soils exceeded the control limits of PAEs in the American soil by 93.85% and 27.69% respectively, but the rest four PAEs compounds were lower than the control limits. Generally, the pollution level of soils contaminated by PAEs in agricultural fields of Zhongshan City was relatively low. The contents of 3 PAEs in agricultural products ranged from 0.15 to 3.15 mg x kg(-1) with the average of 1.12 mg x kg(-1), which was lower than the suggested standards in USA and Europe and with low health risk. Meanwhile, ∑ PAEs concentrations in vegetables were higher than those both in rice and fruits. DBP and DEHP were the main components of PAEs both in agricultural soils and products, with higher percentage contents and detected ratio. ∑ PAEs and DBP contents in various agricultural products-soils had a significantly positive correlation, with Pearson coefficients (r) in vegetables-vegetable soils were 0.81 (P = 0.000), 0.75 (P = 0.000), and corresponding r among rice-paddy soil and fruits-fruit soils were 0.74 (P = 0.036), 0.65 (P = 0.041) and 0.66 (P = 0.029), 0.78 (P = 0.045), respectively. Although there existed a significant difference for single PAEs compound accumulated by agricultural products, the ∑ PAEs bioconcentration factors of all agricultural products were above 1. Therefore, the accumulation characteristics of PAEs should be fully concerned when farm soil quality assessment is taken.

Novel haptens were designed and synthesized to prepare antibodies against free histamine, but none resulted in producing suitable antibodies for developing an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). However, an antiserum was obtained having high specificity and affinity to p-nitrobenzoylated histamine (NPHA), which can be easily formed from reaction between histamine and p-nitrobenzoic acid N-hydroxysuccinimide ester (PNBA-OSu) under mild conditions. Based on rabbit polyclonal antibodies, a competitive indirect ELISA (ciELISA) for histamine determination in foods was developed. After ciELISA and derivatization optimization, the assay showed good sensitivity, with limits of detection of 1.8 mg/kg, 93.6 μg/L, and 93.6 μg/kg in fish, red wine, and yoghurt, respectively, with negligible cross-reactivity with related biogenic amines and amino acids. Average recovery of histamine in fortified food samples ranged from 80.9% to 110.1% with coefficients of variation below 16.3%. Good correlation between the ciELISA and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was obtained for spiked food samples.

Objective: To establish an UHPLC-DAD fingerprint of 30 batches of Miao medicine Disporum cantoniense from Guizhou, and to provide a theoretical evidence to evaluate its quality., Methods: The analysis was carried out on an Agilent Eclipse ZOR-BAX Plus C18 (100 mm x 2. 1 mm, 1. 8 µm) column with a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile-water(containing 0. 1% formic acid) with gradient elution, and the flow rate was 0. 3 mL/min. The column temperature was set at 40 °C and UV detection wavelength was set at 290 nm. The sample injection volume was 3 µL. The similarity evaluation and principal component analysis(PCA) of these fingerprints were carried out., Results: The UHPLC-DAD fingerprint was established and compared by 30 batches of samples similarity with 12 common peaks and 3 peaks were identified. The similarities of 30 batches of Disporum cantoniense were between 0. 766 and 0. 994. The principal component analysis showed that compounds 1 and 12 were representative for the fingerprint., Conclusion: The method is accurate and credible,which can be used for identification and quality control of Disporum cantoniense.

Objective: To explore the link between cigarette smoking and thromboembolic events and to investigate cigarette smoking as a major risk factor in the etiology of atherosclerosis., Study Design: We determined the effect of nicotine on the expression of adhesion molecules, intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM-1), and vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM-1) in mouse cardiac vascular endothelial cells and the involvement of important known intermediaries, namely p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway., Results: Our results indicate that nicotine can enhance the expression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 on mouse cardiac vascular endothelial cell via p38 MAPK signaling pathway, resulting in increased expression of the cellular adhesion molecules ICAM-1 and VCAM-1., Conclusion: We demonstrate that 10(-6) M nicotine maximally enhances mouse cardiac vascular endothelial cell expression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 at 8 hours. Our results provide a putative mechanism by which nicotine stimulates expression of these adhesion molecules via p38 MAPK signaling pathway.

A UPLC method has been developed in the current investigation for simultaneous determination of nine chemical markers of Bletilla striata, 4-hydroxymethylphenyl beta-D-glucoside, blestroside, dactylorhin A, militarine, dihydrophenanthrene 5, gymnoside V, dihydrophenanthrene 1, benzylphenanthrene 3 and gymnosides IX. Separation was performed at 45 degrees C on an ACQUITY UPLC BEH C18 column (2.1 mm x 150 mm, 1.7 microm) with a gradient solvent system of acetonitrile-water as the mobile phase. The flow rate was 0.3 mL x min(-1), the detection wavelength was 280 nm. The results showed that the nine chemical markers could be well resolved and that in the selected linear range, all calibration curves of the nine chemical markers showed good linearity (r > or = 0.999 3). The recoveries (n = 6) were in the range of 98.15% - 102.2% and RSDs were between 2.1% - 3.6%. The data suggested that the developed UPLC-UV method had good reproducibility, robustness, and accuracy, which was suitable for the quality control of Bletilla striata. Applications of the method showed that the nine chemical markers had higher contents in the wild B. striata than in the cultivated ones.

Apoptosis plays a role in the normal development of liver. However, overactivation thereof may lead to hepatocellular damage. The aim of this study was to assess D-galactosamine (D-GalN)/lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced hepatocyte apoptotic changes in mice and clarify the mechanisms involved in this process. DNA ladder detection was employed to determine the induction condition of hepatic apoptosis. An initial test indicated that typical hepatocyte apoptosis was observed at 6-10 h after the intraperitoneal injection of D-GalN (700 mg/kg) and LPS (10 µg/kg). Subsequently, we evaluated hepatocyte apoptosis at 8 h after administering D-GalN/LPS by histopathological analysis, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end‑labeling (TUNEL) detection, flow cytometry and electron microscopy analysis. To clarify the apoptosis-related gene expression, the expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), caspase-3, and Fas/Fas ligand (FasL) were determined by serum enzyme immunoassay, immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis. Strong apoptotic positive signals following D-GalN/LPS injection were observed from the results of the serum analysis, histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses, DNA ladder detection, TUNEL detection, flow cytometry and electron microscopy analysis. Additionally, apoptotic hepatocytes were mainly at the late stage of cell apoptosis. The expression of TNF-α, TGF-β1, caspase-3 and Fas/FasL was significantly increased. In conclusion, this study evaluated the D-GalN/LPS-induced hepatocyte apoptotic changes and clarified the apoptosis-related gene expression in mice. The hepatocyte apoptosis induced by D-GalN/LPS may be mainly regulated by the death receptor pathway. TGF-β signaling pathway may also play a vital role in this process of hepatocyte apoptosis.

Tablets of oleanolic acid (OA) have been approved by SFDA in China as an adjuvant therapy for acute and chronic hepatitis. Co-occurring substances present in the tablets of OA and their hepatocytotoxicity have not yet been reported. In the current investigation, the crude OA drug was separated by repeated column chromatography. The structures of the isolated compounds were characterized by spectral analysis and the cytotoxicity of each compound was evaluated in vitro against the human normal liver cell L02 at concentrations from 0.125 to 1000 μmol/L using the MTT method. As a result, OA and its 11 co-occurring trace compounds including one new triterpenoid, 3-O- (4-oxo-pentanoyl)-olean-12- en-28-oic acid, were isolated and structurally characterized. Cytotoxicity tests indicated that these compounds were all non-toxic at concentrations up to 50μmol/L. Clear structure-activity relationship (SAR) was also observed. The results suggested that OA tablets of similar origin might not cause obvious cytotoxicity to the normal liver cell. The work may facilitate further SAR studies of OA-type triterpenoids.

Objective: To analyze the effectiveness and costs of the eversion carotid endarterectomy (eCEA) and the carotid endarterectomy with patch angioplasty (pCEA) in treating carotid artery stenosis., Methods: Patients with carotid artery stenosis who underwent the carotid endarterectomy in the vascular surgery department of Peking Union Medical College Hospital from October 2009 to October 2012 were enrolled in this study. According to the two different surgical procedures, the patients were divided into eCEA group and pCEA group., Results: The two groups were not significantly different in terms of gender ,age ,risk factors, stenosis degree of carotid artery, and the ratio of bilateral lesions (all P>0.05).The ratio of shunt and antibiotics application, operative time, hospitalization cost, and length of hospital stay in the eCEA group were significantly lower than those in pCEA group (P<0.05).The therapeutic effectiveness, complications, surgery-related death, restenosis, and ipsilateral stroke were not significantly different between these two groups (P>0.05)., Conclusion: Both surgical procedures are safe and effective in treating the carotid artery stenosis;however, eCEA has lower cost when compared with pCEA and therefore can be used as the first choice.

Background. Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) limits the outcome of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Objective. To investigate whether pretreatment with Compound Danshen Dripping Pills (CDDP) will decrease the incidence of CIN after PCI. Methods. A total of 229 patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) undergoing PCI were divided into the control group (n = 114) and the CDDP (containing salvia miltiorrhiza and sanqi) group (n = 115; given 20 CDDP pills, three times daily before PCI). Serum creatinine, creatinine clearance (CrCl), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), P-selectin, and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) were measured at admission and 24 and 48 h after PCI. Results. CrCl decreased after PCI but recovered after 48 h. In the CDDP group, CrCl recovered more rapidly (P < 0.05). The procedure increased the hsCRP, P-selectin, and ICAM-1 levels, but these levels were less in the CDDP group (P < 0.05). Conclusions. Pretreatment with CDDP can decrease the occurrence of CIN in patients undergoing PCI, suggesting that the early use of CDDP is an appropriate adjuvant pharmacological therapy before PCI.

Activating transcription factor 2 (ATF2) is a member of the leucine zipper family of DNA-binding proteins and is widely distributed in tissues including the liver, lung, spleen, and kidney. Like c-Jun and c-Fos, ATF2 responds to stress-related stimuli and may thereby influence cell proliferation, inflammation, apoptosis, oncogenesis, neurological development and function, and skeletal remodeling. Recent studies clarify the regulatory role of ATF2 in inflammation and describe potential inhibitors of this protein. In this paper, we summarize the properties and functions of ATF2 and explore potential applications of ATF2 inhibitors as tools for research and for the development of immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Hydrophobic nanoparticles were assembled into large-area monolayer films by combining oil/water interfacial self-assembly and phase separation of mixed ligands. Mixed ligands-capped nanoparticles were prepared simply by partially replacing the initial ligands of nanoparticle surfaces with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). Infrared spectra and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy demonstrate that O atom of PVP binds to the nanoparticle surface, changing the wettability of the nanoparticle. By controlling the polarity of solvent, nanoparticles can spontaneously migrate to toluene/water interfaces, forming large-area, close-packed monolayer films. This approach provides a straightforward way to fabricate nanoparticle films with a centimeter-scale size without LB trough, and may have potential applications in the fabrication of catalytic electrodes and photovoltaic electrodes., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: Express and purify four single-stranded DNA-binding (SSB) proteins, and evaluate the binding of SSB proteins on HCV RNA., Methods: The expression plasmids of four SSB proteins were conducted, termed TTH, SSOB, KOD and BL21, respectively. The BL21 (DE3) was transformed by the expression plasmid of TTH, Transetta (DE3) were transformed by the expression plasmid of SSOB, KOD and BL21, then protein expression was induced with IPTG, the expression products were analysised by SDS-PAGE. To evaluate the binding of SSB on HCV RNA, RNA-SSB protein complexes were applied to a 1.2% TAE agarose gel., Results: Suitable competent cells were transformed with the expression plasmids, induced by IPTG. SSB proteins were purified by affinity chromatography, to visualize their purity all SSB proteins were applied to SDS-PAGE analysis. All four proteins showed single clear bands. We have successfully obtained the SSB protein expression plasmid, expressed and purified SSB protein. TAE agarose gel electrophoresis was used to confirm SSB protein-RNA binding activity. The each of SSB-RNA complex migrated more slowly than the sole RNA, which suggested SSB protein could specifically bind to RNA., Conclusions: We have expressed and purified four SSB proteins, and for the first time found that SSB protein can bind HCV RNA. Our results may provide a basis for future studies of the novel functions of SSB proteins on RNA.

Objectives: To summarize the outcome of revascularization for lower limbs thromboangiitis obliterans (TAO) and evaluate risk factors affected outcomes., Methods: Between January 2008 and December 2011, a consecutive series of 24 TAO patients with lower limb ischemia were underwent revascularization. All the patients were male. The mean age was (33 ± 6) years (24-43 years). All patients presented with history of heavy smoking.Fifteen patients (62.5%) presented with ulcer or gangrene, 7 cases (29.2%) presented with rest pain, the rest 2 cases (8.3%) presented with severe intermittent claudication.Eight cases underwent bypass, including 6 autogenous vein graft, 1 prosthesis graft and 1 hybrid graft; 7 cases underwent catheter-directed thrombolysis combined with angioplasty; 3 cases underwent angioplasty and stenting directly; the rest 6 cases underwent thromboectomy and/or endarterectomy. The technical success, amputation and patency of target vessel were reported.Some risk factors were evaluated by multi-factors regression analysis to identify whether influenced outcomes., Results: Seventeen cases (70.8%) harvested primary technical success. Three cases (12.5%) suffered with major amputation due to failure of revascularization.Eight cases with bypass all were successful, 4 cases with thrombolysis got success, 2 cases with primary angioplasty and stenting got success, while the 3 cases with thromboemctomy and/or endarterectomy got success. Among the 7 failed cases, 3 cases needed major amputation, 2 cases underwent re-operation, and the rest 2 cases got conservation treatment. All the patients had effective follow-up between 1 and 40 months (mean (17 ± 11) months).No death occurred during the follow-up. Primary patency, secondary patency and limb salvage rate were 45.8% (11/24), 62.5% (15/24), and 79.2% (19/24), respectively.Risk factors regression analysis showed patients with ulcer or gangrene before revascularization got significant worse outcomes (Wald = 4.018, P = 0.043) . Bypass could improve outcomes significantly (Wald = 4.016, P = 0.045) ., Conclusions: Outcomes of revascularization for TAO with lower limb severe ischemia are acceptable. Autogenous vein graft bypass should be first choice. Thrombolysis with angioplasty could be a reasonable choice for those had no satisfied autogenous vein graft.

Objective: To analyze the efficacy and safety of eversion carotid endarterectomy (eCEA) and carotid endarterectomy with patch angioplasty (pCEA) in the treatment of carotid artery stenosis., Methods: The clinical data were collected and analyzed for the patients with carotid artery stenosis undergoing carotid endarterectomy at Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital from October 2009 to October 2012. According to two different surgical procedures, they were divided into 2 groups of eCEA and pCEA., Results: A total of 248 patients received a follow-up. Among 274 cases of endarterectomy, 101 cases of eCEA and 173 cases of pCEA were performed. No significant difference (P > 0.05) existed between two groups in gender, age, risk factors, stenotic degree of carotid artery or ratio of bilateral lesions. The ratio of shunt (15.8%) and antibiotics (26.7%) application, the duration of operation (88 ± 20) min, intraoperative blood loss (45 ± 16) ml and the length of stay (16 ± 4) days in the group eCEA were significantly lower than those of group pCEA (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) between two groups in the ratio of complications, surgery-related mortality, restenosis and ipsilateral stroke., Conclusion: Both surgical procedures are both safe and effective in the treatment of carotid artery stenosis. However eCEA offers potential advantages. The choice of a particular surgical procedure depends on the surgeon experience and specific circumstances of carotid artery lesions.

Objective: To determine the diagnostic value for predicting cerebral hyperperfusion syndrome (CHS) by adding a transcranial Doppler (TCD) measurement at the end of the carotid endarterectomy (CEA) at the operating room., Methods: Patients who underwent CEA between August 2009 and December 2011 of the prospective clinical trial in whom both intra- and post-operative TCD monitoring were performed were included. The middle cerebral artery velocities pre-clamping, post-declamping and post-operatively were measured by TCD. The intra-operative velocity increase ratio (VR1) was compared to the postoperative velocity increase ratio(VR2) in relation to CHS by calculating the sensitivity,specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value. The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) were also performed. The area under the curve (AUC) of ROC of VR1 and VR2 were compared.All the data were analyzed using SPSS 20.0 software., Results: VR1 > 100% was identified in 6 patients, while VR2 > 100% was identified in 18 patients, respectively. Ten patients were diagnosed with CHS. The AUC of VR2 (0.728) was higher than AUC of VR1 (0.636). The best fit cutoff point of VR2 was 100%. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value were 70%, 83%, 39%, 95%, respectively, which demonstrates a better predictive power than VR1., Conclusion: Besides the commonly used intra-operative TCD monitoring, additional TCD measurement at the end of the carotid endarterectomy at the operating room is more useful to more accurately predict CHS.

Objective: To explore effects of salvianolate on inflammatory cytokines (C-reactive protein, resistin, and adiponectin) of patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), and to analyze its possible treatment mechanisms for ACS patients., Methods: Eighty-three inpatients with ACS at the Cardiology Department of our hospital were randomly assigned to the treatment group and the control group from May 2011 to January 2012. Those in the treatment group (42 cases) were treated with routine Western medical treatment and intravenous injection of Salvianolate (200 mg/day), while those in the control group (41 cases) were treated with routine Western medical treatment. The therapeutic course for all was 14 days. The serum levels of resistin,adiponectin, and CRP were observed before and after treatment., Results: Compared with before treatment, the serum levels of resistin and CRP significantly decreased, and the serum level of adiponectin significantly increased in the two groups after treatment (P < 0.05). Besides, the decrement of serum levels of resistin and CRP and the increment of serum adiponectin level were obviously higher in the treatment group than in the control group, showing statistical difference between the two groups (P <0.05)., Conclusion: Salvianolate could obviously reduce the serum levels of resistin and CRP, and increase the serum adiponectin lever; indicating that partial therapeutic effects of salvianolate might come from its anti-inflammation.

Objective: To investigate the chemical constituents of the active fraction of Polygonum capitatum., Methods: Various preparative chromatographic techniques were used for the isolation and purification of the compounds in the flavonoid-enriched fraction and their structures were determined by comparison of their physicochemical and chromatographic data with those of the authentic samples and spectral analysis., Results: Fourteen compounds were obtained and identified as 1-O-P-D-(6'-O-galloyl)-glucopyranosyl-3-methoxy-5-hydroxybenzene (1) ,5,7-dihydroxy-4H-chromen-4-one (2), ellagic acid (3), myricetrin (4), hirsutine (5), rutin (6), quercetin-3-O-(2"-O-galloyl)-beta-D-glucopyranoside (7) , quercetin-3-O-( 3"-O-galloyl) -/3-D-glucopyranoside (8), quercitrin (9) , kaempferol-3-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranoside (10), quercetin-3-O-(2"-O-galloyl) -alpha-L-rhamnopyranoside (11), quercetin-3-O-(3"-O-galloyl) -alpha-L-rhamnopyranoside (12), quercetin (13), kaempferol (14)., Conclusion: The flavonoid-enriched fraction contains flavonols and their glycosides as its major components,which might be responsible for the biological effects of Polygonum capitatum. Compounds 1, 8 and 12 are isolated from the genus Polygonum for the first time; Compound 3 is isolated from Polygonum capitatum for the first time.

In the title compound, (C(10)H(24)N)[FeCl(4)], no classical hydrogen bonds are observed. The butyl-triethyl-ammonium cations inter-act with the tetra-hedral [FeCl(4)](-) anion through weak C-H⋯Cl inter-actions, forming a three-dimensional network.

The design and synthesis of efficient receptors for tetrahedral oxyanions is an emerging field in supramolecular chemistry. Herein, we have developed a urea-like anion-recognizing motif, amidetriazole, which can be easily synthesized and derived and shows good solubility. A series of simple acyclic receptors were designed and synthesized to confirm the potential of amidetriazole for the construction of tetrahedral oxyanion receptors. This molecular platform can be used extensively for the construction of numerous receptor systems appended with functional groups, which opens the way to many applications in the field of supramolecular chemistry., (Copyright © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.)

The anti-hepatitis B activity of 3,4-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid isolated from Laggera alata was studied using the D-galactosamine- (D-GalN-) induced hepatocyte damage model, HepG2.2.15 cells, and with HBV transgenic mice. In vitro results showed that 3,4-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid improved HL-7702 hepatocyte viability and markedly inhibited the production of HBsAg and HBeAg. At a concentration of 100 μg/mL, its inhibitory rates on the expression levels of HBsAg and HBeAg were 89.96% and 81.01%, respectively. The content of hepatitis B virus covalently closed circular DNA (HBV cccDNA) in HepG2.2.15 cells was significantly decreased after the cells were treated with the test compound. In addition, 3,4-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid significantly increased the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in HepG2.2.15 cells. In vivo results indicated that the test compound at concentrations of 100 μg/mL significantly inhibited HBsAg production and increased HO-1 expression in HBV transgenic mice. In conclusion, this study verifies the anti-hepatitis B activity of 3,4-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid. The upregulation of HO-1 may contribute to the anti-HBV effect of this compound by reducing the stability of the HBV core protein, which blocks the refill of nuclear HBV cccDNA. Furthermore, the hepatoprotective effect of this compound may be mediated through its antioxidative/anti-inflammatory properties and by the induction of HO-1 expression.

Background: The recent onset or deterioration of lower extremity ischemia is highly associated with intravascular thrombus. Treatment of these thrombotic occlusions is challenging. Pulse-spray catheter directed thrombolysis (PS-CDT) refers to the technique of intermittent forcefully injecting the thrombolytic agent into the thrombus to fragment it and increase the surface area available for enzymatic action. This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of PS-CDT in patients with recent onset or deterioration of lower extremity ischemia., Methods: From August 2008 to March 2009, 44 patients with acute or chronic lower extremity ischemia were recruited in this prospective study, which included 37 men and 7 women ranging from 15 to 83 years old (mean age (51.1 ± 17.4) years). PS-CDT through a multi-side-hole thrombolytic catheter by using urokinase was conducted in all patients. The progression of thrombolysis was assessed and graded by angiography. Adjunctive therapies were used to correct underlying lesions. The follow-up period was 12 months., Results: In the 44 patients, the average total dose of urokinase for each patient was (2 120 000 ± 1 100 000) IU (median 2 000 000 IU), with a median duration of lysis of 48 hours. The rate of initial technical success was 97.7%. The rate of clinically successful lysis was 81.8%. Early (≤ 30 days) and late (from 30 days to 12 months) amputation rates were both 4.5% (2/44). The overall amputation rate was 9.1% (4/44). No mortality was recorded during thrombolysis and follow-up period (12 months). No major bleeding or allergic reaction was seen during thrombolytic therapy. 11.4% had symptoms of distal embolization. The primary patency rate for the arteries that were clinically successfully thrombolyzed as compared with those that failed to lysis was 83.3% vs. 57.1%, respectively, at 1 year., Conclusions: PS-CDT, combined with adjunctive therapies, is associated with good safety and efficacy in recent-onset or deterioration of lower extremity ischemia. Successful thrombolysis may be accompanied by better outcomes.

Objective: To explore the diagnosis and treatment of spontaneous isolated middle aortic dissection (SIMAD)., Methods: The clinical data of 7 SIMAD patients admitted into our hospital between January 2007 and June 2011 were retrospectively analyzed., Results: There were 3 males and 4 females with an average age of 53 years old. Five patients had an acute onset. According to the original tear location and flow of celiac artery, 6 patients received endovascular repair and another patient underwent abdominal aorta-bilateral-femoral artery bypass with artificial graft. All cases were successfully treated. Six patients recovered well from the procedures. One patient suffered acute coronary artery syndrome at Day 2 after endovascular treatment. After transferral into cardiology unit, emergency percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty was performed with a satisfactory outcome. The postoperative examinations of CTA (computed tomography angiography) of all patients demonstrated that the false lumen of dissection was basically thrombolized without endoleak or stent migration., Conclusion: Vascular surgeons should pay more attention to SIMAD with the potentials of rupture and aneurysm. Endovascular graft exclusion may be a first-line therapy as long as the anatomical conditions allow. However, longer follow-up and further evaluations should be performed to determine the long-term benefits.

Objective: To explore the clinical therapeutic efficacies of combined three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) plus transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) for portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)., Methods: A total of 145 HCC patients with tumor thrombus in portal vein were divided randomly into 2 groups. Group A (n = 64) was treated with surgical intervention alone while group B (n = 81) underwent 3DCRT plus TACE. The gross tumor volume (GTV) was defined as PVTT only., Results: Survival rates of group A at year 1 and 2 were 40.3% and 21.9% with a mean survival time (MST) of 15.2 months while that of group B were 41.2% and 22.5% with a MST of 15.8 months. The total effective rates of groups A and B was 40.6% (28/64) and 44.4% (36/81) respectively., Conclusion: The therapeutic efficacy of 3DCRT plus TACE is similar to that of surgical intervention.

Objective: To evaluate the results of a variety of alternative endovascular techniques applied to patients with complicated abdominal aortic aneurysm complex abdominal aortic aneurysm (cAAA) and unsuitable for open surgery., Methods: From January 2001 to December 2010, charts of all patients having an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) were reviewed. Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) was done in 138 patients, in which 9 patients were defined as cAAA such as juxta-renal AAA, short or angulated AAA neck, AAA with bilateral iliac artery aneurysms. There were 8 male and 1 female patients, aged from 26 to 87 years with a mean of 67 years. All these patients at high risk for open surgery were offered a modified EVAR technique including fenestrated technique, scallop technique, chimney technique, balloon assisted U-turn stenting and reverse-U stent-graft in 2, 5, 1 and 1 patients respectively., Results: All techniques were successful and without severe postoperative complications. An intraoperative endoleak was found in 4 patients and was corrected immediately. One patient with type I and III endoleaks underwent dilatation with a compliant balloon. Two patients with type I endoleak underwent coil embolization (1 patient) and bare stent (1 patient). During follow-up, one patient with a type II endoleak who demonstrated no increase in sac diameter during follow-up was observed. Mean follow-up was 25.9 months (ranging from 4 to 79 months). No rupture occurred and 8 aneurysms shrink significantly. In 7 patients, critical vessels (renal and mesenteric arteries) were protected during the initial procedure and remained patent except in one patient who was performed reverse "U" stent graft with thrombosis in hypogastric artery., Conclusion: High-risk patients with cAAA inappropriate for traditional EVAR can be successfully treated by using simple ancillary endovascular techniques with acceptable short or mid-term results.

Objective: To evaluated the feasibility, efficacy, and outcome of endovascular repair for descending aortic pseudoaneurysms., Methods: From April 2007 to November 2010, 20 patients of descending aortic pseudoaneurysm were treated. There were 18 male and 2 female, aged from 28 to 82 years with a mean of (58 ± 16) years. In this group, 4 patients were diagnosed as Behçet's syndrome, 6 patients as mycotic pseudoaneurysms with positive blood culture, 6 patients as suspected mycotic pseudoaneurysms, 1 patient with iatrogenic pseudoaneurysm and 1 patient with chronic grain-mononuclear cell leukemia, the other 3 patients with unknown reasons. The 88.5% of aortic pseudoaneurysms were located at abdominal aorta. Fifteen patients underwent endovascular therapy and 2 patients were treated by traditional open surgery. The other 3 patients underwent conservative treatments. The data of treatments and follow-up in the 15 patients who received endovascular repairs were retrospectively analyzed., Results: Endovascular therapy was performed successfully on the 15 patients, and the technique successful rate was 15/15. Total 15 stents were transluminal placed including 6 bifurcate stent-grafts, 6 abdominal straight stent-grafts, 2 thoracic straight stent-grafts and 1 abdominal bare stent. One patient was treated by stent assisted embolization. Perioperative mortality rate was 0. Only 2 primary type IV endoleaks were found. Fourteen patients were successfully followed up. During a mean follow-up of 538 days, 8 (57.1%) patients were uneventful. Six (42.9%) patients were complicated by aneurysm related events, including 4 (28.6%) aneurysm-related deaths, 1 (7.14%) with delayed endoleak and 1 (7.14%) with recurrent pseudoaneurysm which was retreated by another stent-graft., Conclusions: Endovascular therapy for descending aortic pseudoaneurysms is a feasible and mini-invasive option with high technique success rate and low perioperative mortality rate. However, risk of recurrence and rupture to death of pseudoaneurysm remains high during follow-up. Treating the underlying reasons and intensively follow-up may be good for improving the prognosis of descending aortic pseudoaneurysms treated by endovascular therapy.

In the title mol-ecular salt, (C(10)H(16)N)(2)[CuBr(4)], the Cu(II) ion adopts a squashed tetra-hedral geometry with Br-Cu-Br angles varying between 99.29 (3) and 132.53 (3)°. In the crystal, the components are linked by C-H⋯Br inter-actions, thereby generating a three-dimensional network.

The multifaceted character of cyanide as an acceptor of hydrogen bonds from a receptor has been examined for the first time using electronic-structure theory and spectroscopic measurements (UV/Vis and NMR titrations). Motivated by the similar size and charge of the cyanide pseudohalide and the monoatomic chloride ion, strong interactions of cyanide with a rigid macrocyclic triazolophane receptor have been predicted by theory and confirmed by experimental findings. It was found that both anions bind with similar strength in the gas phase (computed) and in the solution phase (experimental) via C-H hydrogen bonds. Theoretical calculations predict that the heterodiatomic cyanide prefers to bind in the plane of the macrocycle along the north-south axis. Examination of the possible binding modes reveal low computed barriers for in-plane rotation. The predicted model is consistent with the experimental data. Overall, the binding of a molecular anion within the cavity of a triazolophane receptor has been characterized where the computed and experimental binding energies are consistent with the classification of cyanide as a pseudohalide in the context of supramolecular chemistry., (Copyright © 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.)

Although many cagelike molecules can create a catalytic environment for promoting chemical reactions, the construction of receptors that can host anionic species and sensitize their reaction is novel. Here we report the photochemically induced dimerization of the anion radicals of TCNQ (7,7,8,8-tetracyano-para-quinodimethane) in organic solvent under aerobic conditions when they are encapsulated inside a cationic photoactive receptor. There is clear evidence for a rate increase of over two orders of magnitude, photosensitization of the host, and demonstrated turnover of the catalyst., (Copyright © 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.)

Left ventricular diverticulum is a rare congenital anomaly of which the incidence was reported to be 0.26%. Diverticula are usually localized near the apex and most often involve the inferior or anterior parietal walls of the left ventricle. In this report, we describe a rare case of congenital isolated left ventricular apical diverticulum, which was tako-tsubo-like in systole, "dumbbell-like" the whole left ventricle, diagnosed by angiography and magnetic resonance imaging.

Objective: To evaluate the application of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) in the treatment of patients with bilateral moderate to severe carotid stenosis., Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 82 patients with bilateral moderate to severe carotid stenosis who were admitted to our hospital from January 2006 to December 2009. Of these patients, 64 underwent ipsilateral CEA and 18 underwent bilateral CEA., Results: A total of 100 endarterectomies including 92 patching and 94 carotid shunt were performed. Seventy-six patients smoothly recovered from the surgery. Two patients suffered from cardiac ischemia and infarction and one died of massive cerebral infarction. Three patients presented with hyperperfusion syndrome,and one of them developed cerebral hemorrhage. Of 79 patients who were followed up regularly, 76 (96.2%) had no cerebral ischemia relevant to the operated carotid artery,one developed mild re-stenosis, and 2 suffered from neurological dysfunction., Conclusion: CEA should be performed in patients with bilateral moderate to severe carotid stenosis once the indication is confirmed.

Objective: To reveal the roles of Rho kinase (ROCK) in the mechanisms of complications in diabetes by reviewing the correlations between ROCK and related complications in diabetes., Data Sources: The data used in the present article were mainly from PubMed with relevant English articles published from 1998 to 2010. The search terms were "ROCK" and "diabetes"., Study Selection: Original articles including the roles of ROCK or its inhibitors in diabetic complications and review articles about the biological character of ROCK were selected., Results: The activity and expression of ROCK were up-regulated in the models of type 1 or type 2 diabetes animals and the cultured cells with concentrations of high glucose, ROCK activation was associated with the development or progression of complications in diabetes. Inhibition of RhoA/ROCK pathway prevented or ameliorated the pathologic changes of diabetic complications, and ROCK has been regarded as a key target for treatment of these complications., Conclusion: RhoA/ROCK signaling plays important roles in the pathogenesis of long-term complications in diabetes and ROCK inhibitors are becoming a promising solution to treatments of complications in diabetes.

Objective: To investigate surgical procedures for popliteal artery occlusive disease., Methods: The clinical data of 25 patients with popliteal artery occlusive disease from June 2007 to June 2008 was analyzed retrospectively. There were 18 male and 7 female with an average age of (53 ± 21) years. Eleven patients (11 limbs, 42.3%) were acute limb ischemia and 14 patients (15 limbs, 57.7%) were chronic limb ischemia. All patients were treated with surgical revascularization. Four limbs underwent thrombectomy. Nineteen limbs underwent endarterectomy with patch below knee. Three limbs underwent femoral-popliteal bypass with reversed saphenous vein or graft. Six of all the limbs underwent resection of the aberrant muscle when revascularization., Results: Ischemic symptoms and claudication distance were improved in 24 patients (25 limbs). Postoperative ankle-branch index (ABI) was 0.75 ± 0.29, significantly higher than preoperative ABI 0.35 ± 0.20 (P < 0.01). Average follow up time was 10.2 months. I stage patency rate was 92.3%. Three patients were amputated postoperatively. The rate of limb salvage was 88.5% in this study., Conclusions: The cause of popliteal artery occlusive disease are diverse. Treatment for popliteal artery occlusive disease should depend on its etiology to make the outcomes be satisfied.

Objective: To quantitatively observe the effect of long-term use of Gingko biloba Tablet (GBT) on left ventricular systolic and diastolic function in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) by tissue Doppler imaging (TDI)., Methods: Eighty-four CHF patients were randomly assigned to two groups, the treatment group and the control group. All were treated with furosemide, spironolactone, and perindopril, but additional medication of GBT was given to the treatment group. The treatment lasted for 24 weeks. TDI measurement was performed at three time points, i. e. before treatment (T0), 12 weeks and 24 weeks after treatment (T1 and T2), by which, the peak velocity on 6 mitral annulus sites at systolic, early and late diastolic phase (V(S), V(E), V(A), V(E)/V(A)) was measured, and the average velocity on the 6 sites at the 3 phases (V(MS), V(ME), V(ME)/V(MA)) was calculated and analyzed., Results: All measured data at T0 were not statistically different between the two groups (P > 0.05). As compared with the data measured at T0, V(MS), V(ME), V(ME)/V(MA) in the treatment group and V(ME) in the control group raised at T2, showing statistical significant differences (P < 0.05). Comparisons between groups showed that V(MS), V(ME) at T1 and V(MS), V(ME), V(MA), V(ME)/V(MA) at T2 were higher in the treatment group than in the control group respectively with statistical significance (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01)., Conclusion: Long-term administration of GBT can significantly improve the left ventricular function in CHF patients.

Objective: To summarize advancement of diagnosis and surgical intervention of popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES)., Methods: From March 2006 to August 2009, 11 patients (14 limbs) underwent surgical procedures, including 9 males (81.8%), with a median age of 22 years old (arranged from 15 to 56 years old). Three cases (27.2%) had both limbs involved. The chief complaint contained intermittent claudication in 8 cases and rest pain in 3 cases. The time from onset to admission arranged from 3 weeks to 10 years. 14 limbs were diagnosed as PAES through multidetector spiral computed tomography. Eleven cases were diagnosed as Delaney's type II or III, 1 case as type V and 2 cases as type I. Two limbs underwent popliteal artery release only, 8 limbs underwent popliteal artery release, thromboendarterectomy and angioplasty with a venous or prosthetic patch, 2 patients complaining acute limb ischemia underwent catheter-based thrombolysis and popliteal artery release subsequently, 2 patients with a occlusive segment longer than 5 cm in popliteal artery underwent below-knee femoral-popliteal artery bypass with in-situ greater saphenous vein graft. All the patients undertook anticoagulation treatment with coumadin after the operation., Results: All the patients had their clinical symptoms released after the operation. One patient (1 limb) was recurrent 20 months after the operation and underwent embolectomy successfully. At a median follow up of 13 months (range 1 to 36 months), the primary patency rate was 92.9% (13/14), the total patency rate was 100% (14/14) and limb salvage rate was 100%. The ankle brachial index at neutral position improved significantly after the surgery in the 12 occluded limbs (1.11 +/- 0.10 vs. 0.62 +/- 0.14, P < 0.01)., Conclusions: Multidetector spiral computed tomography is much helpful in diagnose and typing of PAES. Surgery should be performed as soon as the PAES is diagnosed. Appropriate surgical intervention can achieve satisfying effect according to different character of popliteal artery occlusions.

Objective: To analyze the outcome and risk factors of endovascular revascularization of lower limb artery for elder patients., Methods: From January 2006 to November 2008, 86 elder patients (98 ischemia limbs) underwent endovascular revascularization due to lower limb ischemia. Age of this group were 60 to 82 years old with a mean of (70 +/- 6) years old. Fifty-four limbs (55.0%) had severe intermittent claudication, 28 limbs (28.6%) had rest pain, 11 limbs (11.2%) had ulcer, and 5 limbs (5.1%) had gangrene. Sixty-six limbs were mono segment disease, including 25 aorta-iliac lesions, 33 femoral-popliteal lesions and 8 infra-popliteal lesions. Thirty-two limbs were multiple segment disease involving 2 or 3 segment lesions. Mortality, morbidity, primary patency, secondary patency and limb salvage were retrospectively analyzed. Risk factors on outcome were also evaluated., Results: Ten limbs underwent angioplasty, while the rest 88 limbs underwent angioplasty plus primary stent implantation. The total operation success rate was 95.9%. Perioperative mortality within the first 30 d was 0. Perioperative morbidity within the first 30 d was 5 cases (5.1%), including 2 myocardial infarction, 2 major amputations and 1 irreversible contrast-induced nephropathy. Follow-up duration were 1 to 35 months with a mean of (18 +/- 10) months. Eighty-three (96.5%) patients had effectively follow-up. Mortality was 2.3% (2 cases died due to myocardial infarction). Primary patency rate was 83.7%, secondary patency rate was 94.9% and limb salvage rate was 95.9%. Risk factor analysis showed that diabetes mellitus, critical ischemia and multiple segment lesions were associated with worse patency., Conclusions: Endovascular treatment is effective, safe and repeatable revascularization for elder patients of Critical lower limb ischemia. Patients with diabetes mellitus, critical ischemia and multiple segment lesions should be paid more attention because their rather worse outcome.

Mycobacterium avium is an opportunistic pathogen associated with pulmonary disease in non-AIDS patients and disseminated infection in patients with AIDS. The chief route of infection is by colonization and invasion of the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract, but infection through the respiratory route also occurs. After crossing the mucosa, M. avium infects and replicates within tissue macrophages. To identify M. avium genes required for survival in vivo, a library of signature-tagged transposon mutants was constructed and screened for clones attenuated in mice. Thirty-two clones were found to be attenuated for their virulence, from which eleven were sequenced and tested further. All the mutants studied grew similarly in vitro to the wild-type MAC104. Ten mutants were tested individually in mice, confirming the attenuated phenotype. MAV&#95;2450, a polyketide synthase homologue to Mycobacterium tuberculosis pks12, was identified. STM5 and STM10 genes (encoding two hypothetical proteins MAV&#95;4292 and MAV&#95;4012) were associated with susceptibility to oxidative products. Mutants MAV&#95;2450, MAV&#95;4292, MAV&#95;0385 and MAV&#95;4264 live in macrophage vacuoles with acidic pH (below 6.9). Mutants MAV&#95;4292, MAV&#95;0385 and MAV&#95;4264 were susceptible to nitric oxide in vitro. The study of individual mutants can potentially lead to new knowledge about M. avium pathogenic mechanisms.

Objective: To study the effects of carbon disulfide exposure within the national maximum allowable concentration(MAC) on blood pressure and electrocardiogram, and associations with selected factors., Methods: Workers in a chemical fiber factory were divided into two groups based on the type of work: a high exposure group (HEG) of 821 individuals and a low exposure group (LEG) of 259. The CS2 concentration at workplace was controlled under the national MAC. A set of 250 randomly selected people taking routine physical check-ups in the same period and hospital constituted the control group. The systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were measured on the arm, and the pulse pressure (PP) and mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) were calculated based on SBP and DBP. The blood pressure data, along with the results of the routine 12-lead electrocardiography taken at rest and records on gender, age, years of work, type of work, and concentrations of triglycerol, cholesterol, and glucose in blood, were compiled for analyses. Risk factors upon CS2 exposure for the increase of blood pressure and occurrence of electrocardiogram abnormalities were identified and rationalized., Results: Significant difference (P < 0.01) in the average values of SBP, DBP, MABP, and the corresponding abnormality incident rates was found between HEG and LEG, and between HEG and the control group. For both HEG and LEG, the incident rate of DBP abnormality (high DBP) is nearly two times as high as that of SBP. Type of work is the largest risk factor in both the high SBP and high DBP subgroups, with odds ratios (OR) of 2.086 and 2.331 respectively, and high CS2 exposure presents more than double the risk than low exposure. On the incident rate of ECG abnormalities, both exposure groups are significantly different (P < 0.01) to the control group. High SBP in LEG and high DBP in HEG were found to be significant risk factors (OR = 3.531 and 1.638 respectively), while blood glucose appears to be a protective factor (OR = 0.747), appealing to further investigation. Meanwhile, factors like years of work and cholesterol were found to be risk factors in the high SBP subgroup with low exposure, and in the high DBP subgroup with high exposure. Within HEG, high DBP is the only blood pressure-related risk factor found for the incident of left ventricular high voltage (OR = 4.140), as is high SBP for LEG (OR = 4.776). High PP is the only risk factor found for repolarization disturbances within LEG (OR = 20.417). While blood sugar is a risk factor for origin disturbances, it is a protection factor for left ventricular high voltage (OR = 0.633)., Conclusion: The damage of CS2 done to the cardiovascular system is a gradual process. Both early and very low level exposures are detrimental to the human circulatory system. Below the National MAC limit, the toxic effect of CS2 to the cardiovascular system increases with time and level of exposure. The effect of CS2 on DBP is more significant than on SBP, which indicates that CS2 may affect peripheral resistant blood vessels more than the artery. The abnormalities of ECG of workers exposed to CS2 are not only the result of high blood pressure on the heart, but also of the direct toxicity of CS2 on heart and blood vessels.