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The age of bloodstains is tightly related to the time elapsed since the crime was committed. The inference of the time that the crime was committed is of great significance to solve the case, and it was also a difficult problem in judicial authentication. Therefore, establishing a method of rapid determination of bleeding time is very necessary. Using a UV-visible spectrometer with a reflection accessory called ISR-240A and whiteboard as a reference standard, the reflection spectra of blood gauze, aluminum, glass and plastic were measured every hour under the condition of 16 °C and 70% humidity within 8 hours. Using SPSS to process the data, R541/R577 was figured out and linear fitting was completed. The same method was carried on on the gauze of blood at 24 °C. The results showed that, within 8 hours, spectral reflectance values of blood at 541 and 577 nm increased gradually with the passage of injury time. In addition to the R2 of the glass with blood is 0.769, the rest of the R2 were greater than 0.900. The values of F were greater than F0.05 (1, 6) = 5.59. Therefore, the linear regression model is significant meaningful. The method of using a UV-Visible spectrometer without doing any operations of the test samples is simple. Moreover, it does no harm to the further inspection in aspects of personal information, which is suitable for the judicial practice.

The natural vitreous body has a fine structure and complex functions. The imitation of the natural vitreous body by vitreous substitutes is a challenging work for both researchers and ophthalmologists. Gases, silicone oil, heavy silicone oil and hydrogels, particularly the former two vitreous substitutes are clinically widely used with certain complications. Those, however, are not real artificial vitreous due to lack of structure and function like the natural vitreous body. This article reviews the situations, challenges, and future directions in the development of vitreous substitutes, particularly the experimental and clinical use of a new artificial foldable capsular vitreous body.

Interferon (IFN)-λ3, a member of the type III IFN family, is a pleiotropic cytokine that exhibits potent antiproliferative, antiviral, and immunoregulatory activities. For further functional study of IFN-λ3, we developed an efficient procedure that includes cloning, expression, and purification to obtain relatively large quantity of mouse IFN-λ3 fusion protein. The mature IFN-λ3 protein-coding region was cloned into the prokaryotic expression vector pET-44. IFN-λ3 contains a hexahistidine tag at its C-terminus. We used Ni(2+)-nitrilotriacetic acid agarose-affinity chromatography to purify the expressed soluble protein. The purified IFN-λ3 inhibited significantly IL-13 production in stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Our findings show that the production of soluble IFN-λ3 proteins by the pET-44 vector in Escherichia coli is a good alternative for the production of native IFN-λ3 and could be useful for the production of other IFN proteins.

The genus Malassezia is important in the aetiology of facial seborrhoeic dermatitis (FSD), which is the most common clinical type. The purpose of this study was to analyse the distribution of Malassezia species in the facial lesions of Chinese seborrhoeic dermatitis (SD) patients and healthy individuals. Sixty-four isolates of Malassezia were isolated from FSD patients and 60 isolates from healthy individuals. Sequence analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region was used to identify the isolates. The most frequently identified Malassezia species associated with FSD was M. furfur (76.56%), followed by M. sympodialis (12.50%) and M. japonica (9.38%). The most frequently isolated species in healthy individuals were M. furfur (61.67%), followed by M. sympodialis (25.00%), M. japonica (6.67%), M. globosa (3.33%), and M. obtusa (3.33%). Overall, our study revealed that while M. furfur is the predominant Malassezia species in Chinese SD patients, there is no significant difference in the distribution of Malassezia species between Chinese SD patients and healthy individuals., (© 2014 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.)

Objective: To investigate the molecular mechanism of colorectal cancer (CRC) cell apoptosis induced by the Jumonji domain containing 2B (JMJD2B) silencing., Methods: Both HCT116 and LoVo CRC cell lines were used for analyses. Cell apoptosis after JMJD2B silencing was determined by flow cytometry. JC-1 fluorescence probe was applied to measure the mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization by flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy. Immunofluorescence was used to detect cytochrome C translocation from mitochondria to cytosol after JMJD2B silencing. The efficacy of JMJD2B silencing on the protein levels of Bcl-2 family, caspase proteins, CCAAT/enhancer binding protein homologous protein (CHOP) and glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) were detected by Western blot., Results: JMJD2B silencing induced CRC cell apoptosis via a decrease of the anti-apoptotic gene Bcl-2 family expression, leading to the translocation of Bak and Bax proteins and the promotion of mitochondrial membrane disruption, resulting in the release of cytochrome C from mitochondria and subsequent caspase-9 and caspase-3 cleavage. It also increased the amount of cleaved caspase-8 involved in the death receptor-related apoptotic pathway. Bcl-2 homology 3 interacting-domain death agonist (Bid), a specific caspase-8 substrate involved in the Fas signaling pathway, subsequently induced cleavage via caspase-8 activation. However, levels of CHOP and GRP78 remained unchanged after JMJD2B silencing., Conclusions: JMJD2B silencing induced CRC cell apoptosis via both mitochondria-related and death receptor-related pathways. The cleavage of Bid activated by caspase-8 might serve as a crosstalk mediator between these two pathways in CRC., (© 2014 Chinese Medical Association Shanghai Branch, Chinese Society of Gastroenterology, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.)

Background: A higher prevalence of chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) occurs in younger adults in Asia. We used Stomach Age to examine the different mechanisms of CAG between younger adults and elderly individuals, and established a simple model of cancer risk that can be applied to CAG surveillance., Methods: Stomach Age was determined by FISH examination of telomere length in stomach biopsies. Δψm was also determined by flow cytometry. Sixty volunteers were used to confirm the linear relationship between telomere length and age while 120 subjects were used to build a mathematical model by a multivariate analysis. Overall, 146 subjects were used to evaluate the validity of the model, and 1,007 subjects were used to evaluate the relationship between prognosis and Δage (calculated from the mathematical model). ROC curves were used to evaluate the relationship between prognosis and Δage and to determine the cut-off point for Δage., Results: We established that a tight linear relationship between the telomere length and the age. The telomere length was obvious different between patients with and without CAG even in the same age. Δψm decreased in individuals whose Stomach Age was greater than real age, especially in younger adults. A mathematical model of Stomach Age (real age + Δage) was successfully constructed which was easy to apply in clinical work. A higher Δage was correlated with a worse outcome. The criterion of Δage >3.11 should be considered as the cut-off to select the subgroup of patients who require endoscopic surveillance., Conclusion: Variation in Stomach Age between individuals of the same biological age was confirmed. Attention should be paid to those with a greater Stomach Age, especially in younger adults. The Δage in the Simple Model can be used as a criterion to select CAG patients for gastric cancer surveillance.

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is steadily increasing in China. Colorectal adenoma (CRA) is the most important precancerous disease of CRC. Screening for colorectal tumors can aid early diagnosis. Advances in endoscopic mucosal resection and endoscopic submucosal dissection can aid the early treatment of colorectal tumors. Furthermore, because of high risk of recurrence after removal of adenomas under endoscopy, factors contributing to recurrence, the follow-up mode and the interval established, and the feasibility of application and the time of various chemical preventions should be concerned. However, a relevant consensus on the screening, early diagnosis and treatment, and prevention of colorectal tumors in China is lacking., Summary: The consensus recommendations include epidemiology, pathology, screening, early diagnosis, endoscopic treatment, monitoring and follow-up, and chemoprevention of colorectal tumors in China., Key Message: This is the first consensus on the prevention, screening, early diagnosis and treatment of CRA and CRC in China based on evidence in the literature and on local data., Practical Implications: Through reviewing the literature, regional data and passing the consensus by an anonymous vote, gastroenterology experts from all over China launch the consensus recommendations in Shanghai. The incidence and mortality of CRC in China has increased, and the incidence or detection rate of CRA has increased rapidly. Screening for colorectal tumors should be performed at age 50-74 years. Preliminary screening should be undertaken to find persons at high risk, followed by colonoscopy. A screening cycle of 3 years is recommended for persistent interventions. Opportunistic screening is a mode suitable for the current healthcare system and national situation. Colonoscopy combined with pathological examination is the standard method for the diagnosis of colorectal tumors. CRA removal under endoscopy can prevent CRC to some extent, but CRA has an obvious recurrence trend. The follow-up interval after the removal or surgery of colorectal tumors should be different with lesions. Primary prevention of CRA includes improved diet with more fiber, supplements containing calcium and vitamin D, supplements containing folic acid for those with low hemoglobin levels, and cessation of tobacco smoking. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors have been recognized to prevent recurrence after adenoma removal.

Aim: To investigate the benefits of probiotics treatment in septic rats., Methods: The septic rats were induced by cecal ligation and puncture. The animals of control, septic model and probiotics treated groups were treated with vehicle and mixed probiotics, respectively. The mixture of probiotics included Bifidobacterium longum, Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. We observed the survival of septic rats using different amounts of mixed probiotics. We also detected the bacterial population in ascites and blood of experimental sepsis using cultivation and real-time polymerase chain reaction. The severity of mucosal inflammation in colonic tissues was determined., Results: Probiotics treatment improved survival of the rats significantly and this effect was dose dependent. The survival rate was 30% for vehicle-treated septic model group. However, 1 and 1/4 doses of probiotics treatment increased survival rate significantly compared with septic model group (80% and 55% vs 30%, P < 0.05). The total viable counts of bacteria in ascites decreased significantly in probiotics treated group compared with septic model group (5.20 ± 0.57 vs 9.81 ± 0.67, P < 0.05). The total positive rate of hemoculture decreased significantly in probiotics treated group compared with septic model group (33.3% vs 100.0%, P < 0.05). The population of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus in ascites of probiotics treated group were decreased significantly compared with that of septic model group (3.93 ± 0.73 vs 8.80 ± 0.83, P < 0.05; 2.80 ± 1.04 vs 5.39 ± 1.21, P < 0.05). With probiotics treatment, there was a decrease in the scores of inflammatory cell infiltration into the intestinal mucosa in septic animals (1.50 ± 0.25 vs 2.88 ± 0.14, P < 0.01)., Conclusion: Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus may be primary pathogens in septic rats. Probiotics improve survival of septic rats by suppressing these conditioned pathogens.

Colorectal adenoma (CRA) is the precursor lesion of colorectal cancer (CRC). Several agents have been shown to be effective in the chemoprevention of CRA recurrence, but there has been little research on its primary prevention. Participants older than 50 years with no adenomas were recruited for our study and randomized to receive either 1 mg/day folic acid supplement or treatment without folic acid. After 3 years of follow-up, plasma folate and colonoscopy were evaluated. Seven hundred ninety-one participants (91.98%) completed the study. CRA occurred in 64 (14.88%) participants in the folic acid group and 132 (30.70%) in the control group [unadjusted risk ratio (RR), 0.49; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.37-0.63; P < 0.01]; left-sided adenoma (unadjusted RR, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.38-0.76; P = 0.001) and advanced CRA (unadjusted RR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.16-0.81; P = 0.01) were most common. There was no significance difference in the occurrence of three or more adenomas (unadjusted RR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.36-1.77; P = 0.38) or right-sided adenoma (unadjusted RR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.30-1.00; P = 0.07) between the two groups. Participants with low plasma folate may have a high risk of CRA. In conclusion, primary prevention with 1 mg/day folic acid supplementation could reduce the incidence of CRA, especially left-sided and advanced disease in those with no previous adenomas. People with differing baseline plasma folate levels should be given individualized treatment. Those with low plasma folate should be encouraged to take adequate supplements; plasma folate should be elevated to an effective therapeutic level, which may reduce the incidence of CRA., (©2013 AACR.)

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the right vertical infra-axillary mini-incision (RVAI) used for the repair of simple congenital heart defects., Methods: We performed a retrospective 1:1 matched-pair analysis on the patients with simple congenital heart defects who were operated on from February 2003 to October 2010. All the recruited patients were treated through either RVAI (RVAI group) or median sternotomy incision (MSI group). In order to balance the major prognostic factors between the two groups, the MSI group was selected by a pair-matched case-control methodology and matched for heart defects, the year of surgery, body weight and patching., Results: A total of 104 patients were included. The demographics and preoperative clinical characteristics of the patients in the RVAI group (n = 52) and in the MSI one (n = 52) were similar. There were no operative or late mortalities and no special care in the intensive care unit (ICU) or rehospitalization. The mean duration time of surgical operation (skin-to-skin) was 147 ± 21 min (range from 100 to 190 min) in the RVAI group and 174 ± 35 min (range from 120 to 270 min) in the MSI one (P < 0.001), respectively. No significant difference was found between the two groups in the consuming time for cardiopulmonary bypass, aortic cross-clamp, postoperative ventilation, ICU stay, postoperative hospital stay and drainage. No significant residual defects were found in patients of both groups. No asymmetrical development of the breast, thoracic deformity or scoliosis has been found during the follow-up. All the patients or the parents of young children (100%) in the RVAI group and 34 patients or the parents of young children (65.4%) in the MSI one were satisfied with the cosmetic results (P < 0.001)., Conclusions: The RVAI surgical approach to simple congenital heart defects was a safe procedure and could be performed with excellent cosmetic and clinical outcomes. It provided a good alternative to the standard MSI for simple congenital heart defects.

Natural antisense transcripts (NATs) exist ubiquitously in mammalian genomes and play roles in the regulation of gene expression. However, both the existence of bidirectional antisense RNA regulation and the possibility of protein-coding genes that function as antisense RNAs remain speculative. Here, we found that the protein-coding gene, deoxyhypusine synthase (DHPS), as the NAT of WDR83, concordantly regulated the expression of WDR83 mRNA and protein. Conversely, WDR83 also regulated DHPS by antisense pairing in a concordant manner. WDR83 and DHPS were capable of forming an RNA duplex at overlapping 3' untranslated regions and this duplex increased their mutual stability, which was required for the bidirectional regulation. As a pair of protein-coding cis-sense/antisense transcripts, WDR83 and DHPS were upregulated simultaneously and correlated positively in gastric cancer (GC), driving GC pathophysiology by promoting cell proliferation. Furthermore, the positive relationship between WDR83 and DHPS was also observed in other cancers. The bidirectional regulatory relationship between WDR83 and DHPS not only enriches our understanding of antisense regulation, but also provides a more complete understanding of their functions in tumor development.

Purpose: To investigate the predictive value of loss of PTEN expression in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) treated with anti-EGFR monoclonal therapy., Methods: Studies were systematically identified to investigate the relationship between PTEN expression and clinical outcome in mCRC patients treated with anti-EGFR MoAbs. Clinical outcomes included objective response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). The pooled relative risk (RR) or hazard ratio (HR) was estimated using a fixed-effects model or a random-effects model according to the heterogeneity between the studies., Results: A total of 852 patients were included in the final meta-analysis. The rate of loss of PTEN expression was 28.4% (242/852). The overall pooled RR for ORR was 0.413 (95% confidence intervals (CI), 0.177-0.965) when patients with loss of PTEN expression were compared with those with normal PTEN expression. Anti-EGFR monoclonal therapy resulted in improved PFS (HR, 0.466; 95% CI, 0.292-0.640) and OS (HR, 0.689 [95% CI, 0.482-0.896]) in patients unselected by KRAS mutation with normal PTEN expression over loss of PTEN expression. A better prognosis, as reflected by PFS (HR, 0.344; 95% CI, 0.154-0.533) and OS (HR, 0.544; 95% CI, 0.285-0.803), was observed in wild-type KRAS patients with normal PTEN expression versus loss of expression., Conclusions: Loss of expression of PTEN is a potential biomarker for resistance to anti-EGFR monoclonal therapy, particularly in mCRC patients with KRAS wild type.

Objective: To find a new way to predict the risk of chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG)., Material and Methods: All the participants received endoscopy and histological examination as well as a standard questionnaire. Multivariate analysis was performed by logistic regression to build the CAG risk model. The accuracy was evaluated by 1418 subjects recruited from six medical centers. 63 subjects received another endoscopy after 1-year follow-up and divided into three groups according to the comparison of the histological results (improved, no change and worse)., Results: The model showed relatively good discrimination, with an AUROC of 0.888 (95% CI 0.852-0.925). A final probability cut-off score of 0.73 was used to predict the presence (>0.73) or absence of CAG (≤0.73). Sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV were 82.8%, 74.7%, 91.8% and 56%, respectively. The predicted results of 1418 subjects compared with the histological results were quite similar. There was a significant difference of the scores between three groups who were followed-up for 1 year (F = 3.248, p = 0.046). In multiple comparisons, a significant difference existed between Group A (the histological results had improved after 1-year follow-up) and Group C (the results were worse) (p = 0.019)., Conclusions: This is the first demonstration of the use of a mathematical model for CAG risk screening. Endoscopy should be recommended to those who are positive according to the model, to detect CAG early and conserve medical resources. In those who have a high-risk score, closer follow-up is needed.

A systematic meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies on green tea consumption and colorectal cancer was performed to determine whether green tea has a chemopreventive effect against colorectal cancer. Six eligible cohort studies involving 352,275 participants and 1675 cases of colorectal cancer were identified. Combined relative risk (RR) ratios for the highest vs. lowest and increment of 1 cup/day green tea consumption levels were calculated. The combined RR of 0.90 (95% CI: 0.72-1.08) was found comparing highest vs. lowest green tea consumption levels for colorectal cancer. No significant differences by cancer-site were found, but an inverse association between green tea and incidence of colorectal cancer (RR: 0.70; 95% CI: 0.55-0.85) and colon cancer (RR: 0.69; 95% CI: 0.48-0.98) was demonstrated in Shanghai population. Singapore men had a higher risk of colorectal cancer (RR: 1.36; 95% CI: 1.06-1.74). Furthermore, an increase in green tea consumption of 1 cup/day was not associated with incidence of colorectal cancer (RR: 0.97; 95% CI: 0.91-1.03). Despite the limited evidence from Shanghai studies in support of green tea as potential chemopreventive agents against colorectal cancer, available data from prospective cohort studies are insufficient to conclude that green tea may protect against colorectal cancer.

Background: The appropriate interval between negative colonoscopy screenings is uncertain, but the numbers of advanced neoplasms 10 years after a negative result are generally low. We aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of colorectal neoplasm screening and management based on repeat screening colonoscopy every 10 years or single colonoscopy, compared with no screening in the general population., Methods and Materials: A state-transition Markov model simulated 100,000 individuals aged 50-80 years accepting repeat screening colonoscopy every 10 years or single colonoscopy, offered to every subject. Colorectal adenomas found during colonoscopy were removed by polypectomy, and the subjects were followed with surveillance every three years. For subjects with a normal result, colonoscopy was resumed within ten years in the repeat screening strategy. In single screening strategy, screening process was terminated. Direct costs such as screening tests, cancer treatment and costs of complications were included. Indirect costs were excluded from the model. The incremental cost- effectiveness ratio was used to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the different screening strategies., Results: Assuming a first-time compliance rate of 90%, repeat screening colonoscopy and single colonoscopy can reduce the incidence of colorectal cancer by 65.8% and 67.2% respectively. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for single colonoscopy (49 Renminbi Yuan [RMB]) was much lower than that for repeat screening colonoscopy (474 RMB). Single colonoscopy was a more cost-effective strategy, which was not sensitive to the compliance rate of colonoscopy and the cost of advanced colorectal cancer., Conclusion: Single colonoscopy is suggested to be the more cost-effective strategy for screening and management of colorectal neoplasms and may be recommended in China clinical practice.

Toxicity test and pot experiment were conducted to study the nematocidal activity and control effects of Ricinus communis extracts on Meloidogyne incognita. The results showed that both the ricinine and the R. communis water extracts had high nematocidal activity. The ricinine at concentration 2 g x L(-1) and treated for 48 hours had the strongest nematocidal activity, leading to 91.5% of corrected mortality of M. incognita and with the LC50 being 0.6 g x L(-1), whereas the R. communis water extracts at concentration 100 g x L(-1) and treated for 48 hours had the strongest nematocidal activity, which led to 83.5% of corrected mortality of M. incognita, and the LC50 was 18.3 g x L(-1). With the inoculation of M. incognita treated with ricinine, R. communis water extracts, and R. communis leaf powder, respectively, on tomato seedlings, the mean number of plant root-knots was 17.6 +/- 1.7, 20.6 +/- 1.5 and 22.8 +/- 3.7, respectively, being significantly lower than the control (37.4 +/- 2.3), and the root length increased by 46.8%, 34.5% and 33.8%, and the plant height increased by 33.5%, 22.6% and 15.8%, and the fresh mass increased by 41.4%, 18.9% and 10.1%, respectively, compared with the control. All the results suggested that R. communis extracts could mitigate the harm of M. incognita, and had obvious effects on potted tomato against M. incognita.

Background: Stanniocalcin-1(STC-1) is up-regulated in several cancers including gastric cancer. Evidences suggest that STC-1 is associated with carcinogenesis and angiogenic process. However, it is unclear on the exact role for STC-1 in inducing angiogenesis and tumorigeneisis., Method: BGC/STC cells (high-expression of STC-1) and BGC/shSTC cells (low- expression of STC-1) were constructed to investigate the effect of STC-1 on the xenograft tumor growth and angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. ELISA assay was used to detect the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the supernatants. Neutralizing antibody was used to inhibit VEGF expression in supernatants. The expression of phosphorylated -PKCβII, phosphorylated -ERK1/2 and phosphorylated -P38 in the BGC treated with STC-1protein was detected by western blot., Results: STC-1 could promote angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo, and the angiogenesis was consistent with VEGF expression in vitro. Inhibition of VEGF expression in supernatants with neutralizing antibody markedly abolished angiogenesis induced by STC-1 in vitro. The process of STC-1-regulated VEGF expression was mediated via PKCβII and ERK1/2., Conclusions: STC-1 promotes the expression of VEGF depended on the activation of PKCβII and ERK1/2 pathways. VEGF subsequently enhances tumor angiogenesis which in turn promotes the gastric tumor growth.

Objective: To investigate the characteristics of fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) in metastatic choroidal carcinomas and determine the value of FFA in differentiating metastatic choroidal carcinomas from primary choroidal melanomas., Methods: It was a retrospective case series. The retrospective analysis of clinical data and FFA findings was performed in 23 eyes of 22 patients with metastatic choroidal carcinomas and 31 eyes of 31 patients with primary choroidal melanomas as the control., Results: Ocular fundus findings of metastatic choroidal carcinomas were divided into three types: solitary flat (tumor thickness less than 3 mm), solitary elevated (tumor thickness more than 3 mm) or diffuse type. FFA of the three types showed hypofluorescence during the arterial phase and progressive hyperfluorescence during the subsequent phases. The border of the lesions revealed retinal capillary dilation during the arteriovenous phase and persistent pinpoint leakage throughout the angiogram. Retinal capillary dilation and pinpoint leakage were more frequently presented in the solitary flat type. Simultaneous visualization of retinal and tumor circulation (the so called double circulation) was more frequently presented in the solitary elevated type. Pinpoint leakage could be detected in 17 (73.91%) eyes of metastatic choroidal carcinomas and in 5 (16.13%) eyes of primary choroidal melanomas. The difference between the visibility of pinpoint leakage in metastatic choroidal carcinomas and primary choroidal melanomas was statistically significant (P = 0.0000). When pinpoint leakage of FFA was used to differentiate metastatic choroidal carcinomas from primary choroidal melanomas, the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive and negative predictive values were 73.91%, 83.87%, 79.63%, 77.27%, 81.25% respectively., Conclusions: FFA is helpful for the diagnosis of metastatic choroidal carcinomas. Pinpoint leakage on the border of lesions has some value in differentiating metastatic choroidal carcinomas from primary choroidal melanomas.

The recurrence of colorectal adenoma (CRA) is high. Although there are guidelines for colonoscopy surveillance after polypectomy in other countries, little is known about its recurrence rate and recurrence peak, especially in China. The aim of the present research is to investigate how long after polypectomy follow-up should take and to analyze risk factors of recurrence. 1208 patients who received polypectomies from five clinical research centers in four regions of China (Shanghai, Guangzhou, Nanjing and Beijing) were included. They were divided into 4 groups: group A (follow-up ≤ 1 year after polypectomy), group B (follow-up 2-3 years after polypectomy), group C (follow-up 4-5 years after polypectomy), and group D (follow-up > 5 years after polypectomy). The sex, age, adenoma location, size, number, and pathological characteristics were compared. On the whole, the recurrence rate was 59.46% in group A, 61.09% in group B, 78.07% in group C, and 87.12% in group D, which indicated an increased tendency with a prolonged follow-up duration. There was a significant difference between group A and C or D, and between group B and C or D (P<0.01), but there was no statistical difference between group A and B. Additionally, the recurrent patients in the first year had a recurrence rate of 97.33% in the first three years (59.46/61.09), which means that the peak of recurrence was almost entirely concentrated in the first year. The recurrence rate was higher in males and the elder. The risk factors included multiple numbers, villous feature, high-grade dysplasia of medium or smaller size and location in the distal colon. In conclusion, the peak of recurrence was almost totally concentrated in the first year; meanwhile, the first year follow-up is of critical importance in China. It may not be necessary to do the follow-up examination during the second and third years, but after three years, another colonoscopy should be undertaken.

Stable and narrow distribution polyion complex micelles (PICMs) were prepared in an aqueous milieu through electrostatic interaction between a pair of oppositely charged block copolymers poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone)-block-poly(2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid) (PVP-b-PAMPS) and monomethoxy poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(4-vinyl pyridine) (PEG-b-P4VP). The critical aggregate concentration (CAC), hydrodynamic size, and surface morphology of the prepared PICMs were characterized by fluorescence spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), respectively. The resulting CAC and the average diameter of the PICMs were about 43 mg/L and 121 nm, indicating high structural stability of micelles and a size favorable for delivery of drug. In addition, the PICMs exhibited good biocompatibility using the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay with human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells. All of these features are quite feasible for utilizing the PICMs as a novel intelligent drug delivery system. In order to assess its application in the biomedical area, the model drug folic acid (FA) was loaded into the micelles and the in vitro drug release behavior was investigated. We found that by manipulating the pH value and salt concentration of the release solution, it was possible to control the release rate of FA., (Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

In the simulation experiments in vitro of the formation of gallstone, adenosine-triphosphate(ATP)-Co(2+)-deoxycholic acid(DC) gel system was chosen to study the periodic precipitation progress. The effect of ATP on the Co(2+)-DC gel system was also determined, and the structure of the periodic precipitation formed was characterized by FTIR. The results show that the patterns formed in the systems with ATP are different, ATP affected the rate and structure of precipitation through its variable participation in the metal coordination complexes as judged by the phosphate P=O bands and the deoxycholate COO- symmetric and asymmetric vibration bands as measured by FTIR Theses spectroscopic differences were correlated with color and pattern differences in the precipitates. ATP has a more remarkable function than AMP to the modes of patterns, meanwhile the system patterns transform from fractal to periodic precipitation. There is a complex interaction among ATP, sodium deoxycholic and Co2+ with a transparent crystal produced. The crystal is deoxycholic acid and the periodic precipitation is composed of ATP and DC covalent to Co2+. These results indicate that stone formation and remodeling is a dynamic, nonlinear progress. Much of the precipitate, as judged by local differences in composition, is not in equilibrium with the general gel environment. The authors conclude that the formation of gallstone features complex and nonlinear chemical character, in which nucleotides as living material play a very important role.

Background: In recent years, interventional tumor therapy, involving implantation of intra-cholangial metal stents through percutaneous trans-hepatic punctures, has provided a new method for treating cholangiocarcinoma. (103)Pd cholangial radioactive stents can concentrate high radioactive dosages into the malignant tumors and kill tumor cells effectively, in order to prevent re-stenosis of the lumen caused by a relapsed tumor. The aim of the present study was to investigate the efficacy of gamma-rays released by the (103)Pd biliary duct radioactive stent in treating cholangiocarcinoma via induction of biliary cholangiocarcinoma cell apoptosis., Methods: A group of biliary duct cancer cells was collectively treated with a dose of gamma-rays. Cells were then examined by the 3-(4, 5-dimethyl thiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl terazolium-bromide (MTT) technique for determining the inhibition rate of the biliary duct cancer cells, as well as with other methods including electron microscopy, DNA agarose gel electrophoresis, and flow cytometry were applied for the evaluation of their morphological and biochemical characteristics. The growth curve and the growth inhibition rate of the cells were determined, and the changes in the ultrastructure of the cholangiocarcinoma cells and the DNA electrophoresis bands were examined under a UV-lamp., Results: The gamma-ray released by (103)Pd inhibited cholangiocarcinoma cell growth, as demonstrated when the growth rate of the cells was stunned by a gamma-ray with a dosage larger than 197.321 MBq. Typical features of cholangiocarcinoma cell apoptosis were observed in the 197.321 MBq dosage group, while cell necrosis was observed when irradiated by a dosage above 245.865 MBq. DNA agarose gel electrophoresis results were different between the 197.321 MBq irradiation dosage group, the 245.865 MBq irradiation dosage group, and the control group., Conclusions: (103)Pd radioactive stents which provide a radioactive dosage of 197.321 MBq are effective in the treatment of cholangiocarcinoma; (103)Pd radioactive stents should be useful for the clinical treatment of cholangiocarcinoma.

Thermo- and pH-responsive semi-IPN polyampholyte hydrogels were prepared by using carboxymethylchitosan and poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) with N,N'-methylenebisacrylamide (BIS) as the crosslinking agent. The swelling characteristics of these hydrogels at distinct compositions as a function of pH and temperature were investigated. It was found that the semi-IPN hydrogels demonstrated the pH- and temperature-responsive nature of the materials, and it also showed good reversibility. The study on the release of coenzyme A (CoA) showed that within 24h the cumulative release ratio of CoA was 22.6% in pH 2.1 solution and 89.1% in pH 7.4 solution at 37 degrees C, respectively. The release rate of CoA was higher at 37 degrees C than 25 degrees C in a pH 7.4 buffer solution. An increased release rate of CoA was observed with the content of carboxymethylchitosan increasing in the hydrogel at 25 degrees C in pH 7.4 solution. These results show that semi-IPN hydrogel seems to be of great promise in pH-temperature oral drug delivery systems.

Background: With the objective of developing a locally-produced radioactive stent, the present study used in vivo animal experiments to explore apoptosis of proliferative smooth muscle cells resulting from facilitation of the expression of genes caused by gamma-radiation in order to prevent bile duct restenosis. We therefore explored the effects and significance of gamma-radiation on the activity of caspase-3, Fas and Bcl-2 genes in apoptosis of proliferative smooth muscle cells in the bile duct walls of dogs., Methods: Twelve dogs were randomly divided into 2 groups (6 in each group). A postinjury bile duct stenosis model was established and radioactive (103)Pd ((103)palladium) or ordinary bile duct stents were implanted into the bile ducts. HE staining, RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the proliferation and apoptosis of bile duct smooth muscle cells in proliferative endomembrane and the expression of related caspase-3, Bcl-2 and Fas genes., Results: The expression of caspase-3 and Fas genes in the bile duct tissues of dogs with radioactive stents was higher than that of dogs with ordinary stents. There was significant apoptosis of proliferative smooth muscle cells in the bile ducts. The expression of the Bcl-2 gene in the bile duct tissues of dogs with radioactive stents was lower than that in those with ordinary stents. There was significant apoptosis of proliferative smooth muscle cells in the dogs with low Bcl-2 gene expression., Conclusions: Radiation increases the activity of caspase-3 and Fas genes and is associated with apoptosis. The radioactive (103)Pd stent may facilitate apoptosis of proliferative smooth muscle cells in the bile ducts of dogs by activating these genes. The Bcl-2 gene expression level is correlated with the occurrence of apoptosis and the radiosusceptibility of cells.

Background: This study was designed to assess the expression of smooth muscle actin (SMA) in the healing process after implanting a (103)Pd radioactive stent in the biliary duct, and to discuss the function and significance of this stent in preventing biliary stricture formation., Methods: A model of biliary injury in dogs was made and then a (103)Pd radioactive stent was positioned in the biliary duct. The expression and distribution of SMA were assessed in the anastomotic tissue 30 days after implantation of the stent., Results: SMA expression was less in the (103)Pd stent group than in the ordinary stent group. The (103)Pd stent inhibited scar contracture and anastomotic stenosis., Conclusion: The (103)Pd stent can reduce the expression of SMA in the healing process and inhibit scar contracture and anastomotic stenosis in the dog biliary duct.

Objective: To evaluate the heart function of the patients early after the repair of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)., Methods: Forty-three patients with TOF, 25 males and 18 females, underwent operation at the age of 2.5 - 52 years (16.7 years on average) and were followed up for 1 - 3.5 years. Twenty-one age-matched healthy persons were used as controls. Tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) was used to measure the values of the peak tricuspid ring velocity during early diastole (Ea), late diastole (Aa), systole, and isovolumic contraction, and isovolumetric contraction acceleration (IVA); and isovolumetric contraction time (ICT), isovolumetric relaxation time (IRT), and isovolumetric contraction velocity (IVV) of the right ventricle. Tei index was calculated using the formula: (ICT + IRT)/ET. Treadmill test was used on the patients aged > 17 to measure the maximal heart rate maximal blood pressure, maximal exercise tolerance (MET), and movement time., Results: The peak tricuspid ring velocity during Ea of the repaired TOF group (rTOF group) was 11.5 +/- 2.6 cm/s, significantly lower than that of the control group (17.1 +/- 2.4 cm/s, P < 0.0001), the peak tricuspid ring velocity during Aa of the rTOF group was 9.6 +/- 1.7 cm/s, significantly lower than that of the control group (12.9 +/- 2.9 cm/s, P < 0.001), the E/A of the rTOF group was 1.16 +/- 0.36, significantly lower than that of the control group (1.36 +/- 0.26, P < 0.05). The IVV of the rTOF group was 7.7 +/- 1.8 cm/s, significantly lower than that of the control group (9.9 +/- 1.4 cm/s, P = 0.0030, and the IVA of the rTOF group was 131.7 +/- 37.6 cm/s(2), significantly lower than that of the control group (222.5 +/- 39.2 cm/s(2), P < 0.001). The Tei index of the rTOF group was 0.58 +/- 0.11, significantly higher than that of the control group (0.52 +/- 0.04, P = 0.029). The maximal heart rate maximal blood pressure, MET, and movement time of the rTOF group were all significantly lower than those of the control group (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01)., Conclusion: The heart function of the patients undergoing repair of TOF fails to recover to the normal level during a short time after the surgery.

Objective: To determine the causative mutation of myocilin gene and to investigate its pathogenic function in a large Chinese pedigree (GZ.1) with familial open-angle glaucoma., Methods: Genome-wide scanning was performed and the Lod scores were calculated. Candidate gene was amplified and screened for mutations using direct sequencing. To elucidate its expression, distribution and cytotoxicity of mutant myocilin, human trabecular cells (HTM) cells were transfected with pcDNA-wild-type and mutant myocilin vectors using liposomes., Results: Mutation analysis of the myocilin gene showed a C-to-T transition at the 1, 109 th nucleotide in exon 3 resulting in a change of amino acid from proline to leucine (Pro370Leu). This mutation cosegregated with all affected individuals (16/16) and never presented in unaffected individuals (0/8). In transfected HTM cells, the mutant myocilin protein was not correctly processed in ER and accumulated as aggresome-like structures in the cytoplasma instead of being secreted. In addition, the expression of mutant protein also led to apoptosis of trabecular cells and the occurrence of., Conclusion: The mutation of Pro370Leu in myocilin gene could cause the accumulation of misfolding myocilin protein in HTM cells, which might lead to glaucoma in GZ.1 pedigree.

A Bacillus sp. WS06, which produces an extracellular alpha-amylase, was isolated from the cecum in a piglet. An amyF gene from this Bacillus strain was cloned and its nucleotide sequence was determined. An open reading frame composed of 1581 bases, which encodes 526 amino acid residues was found. The amyF gene shows high sequence homologies with other microbial amylase genes, such as Bacillus megaterium and Bacillus polymyxa (93% and 53% identity). The deduced amino acid sequence revealed that four highly conserved regions of the alpha-amylase family. The amyF gene was overepressed using the pET21a vector and Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3). The recombinant enzyme was purified 22.2 fold to electrophoretic homogeneity and had a molecular mass of 57kD (by SDS-PAGE). The enzyme was optimally active at pH 7 and 55 approximately 60 degrees C and showed stability at the temperature below 55 degrees C. This enzyme efficiently hydrolyzed various types of starch to yield a series of malto-oligosaccharides by endo-cleavage mode.

This is an in vitro model to mimic the conditions present during gallstone formation. Adenosine mono-phosphate (AMP), an important bio-molecule, was chosen. Its effect on the formation of periodic/chaotic patterns in the deoxycholate-CuCl2-gel and deoxycholate-CuCl2-glucose-gel systems were studied. FTIR spectroscopy was used to identify the structure of the precipitates. The results indicate that the patterns formed in the systems with AMP are different. And FTIR spectra show that AMP may also be involved in the coordination sphere of Cu2+ ion. The results are more complicated in the deoxycholate-CuCl2 system containing glucose, suggesting that the nonlinear scientific concept should be considered in understanding gallstone formation.

Objective: To study the effect of protein kinase C alpha on the expression of developmental genes pax-6, slit-2 and netrin-1 during differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells into neuron-like cells in vitro, in an attempt to elucidate their roles in signaling., Methods: ES-BALB/c cells were induced to form embryoid bodies in the ES conditioned medium for 4 days, and were plated separately on coated glass coverslip into 6-well culture dishes for immunohistochemical study and into 100 mm dishes for RT-PCR assay. These cultures were collected after 1, 3, 5, 7 and 14 days in the presence of 5 x 10(-7) mol/L retinoic acid (RA). The neuron-like cells were stained with antibody to NSE and NF-200. mRNA level of the development related genes (pax-6, slit-2 and netrin-1) in undifferentiated and differentiated ES cells was assessed by RT-PCR assay. Effects of PMA and D-sphingosine on the developmental genes were also observed., Results: Most of the neuron-like cells stained with the antibodies to NSE and NF-200. RT-PCR assay showed that levels of PKC alpha, pax-6 and netrin-1, but not slit-2 transcripts decreased dramatically upon induction on the 1st day, but then raised slowly and resumed to normal level on 14th day. PMA upregulated the levels of PKC alpha, pax-6 and netrin-1; while D-sphingosine downregulated their levels., Conclusions: The results of the present experiments demonstrate that the developmental genes pax-6 and netrin-1 play a very important role during differentiation of mouse ES cells into neuron-like cells through PKC alpha signaling pathway.

Objective: To discuss the expression and significance of caspase-3 gene in the apoptotic muscle cells in gamma-radiation-induced muscle cell lines., Methods: The caspase-3 mRNA in the control and gamma-radiation induced apoptotic muscle cells was analysed by RT-PCR., Results: The expression of caspase-3 gene transcript was higher in 103Pd radioactive stent dog bile duct than in general stent dog bile duct, and apoptotic muscle cells were higher in 103Pd radioactive stent dog bile duct than in general stent dog bile duct., Conclusions: The high level expression of caspase-3 gene may help to understand the muscle cells sensitivity to gamma-radiation apoptosis. 103Pd radioactive stent may increase the expression of caspase-3 gene in dog bile duct and prevent the billiary narrow when dog bile duct was injured by balloon.

Background: Internal metallic stents have been widely used in clinical practice, but a high postoperative restenosis rate limits its application. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of intrabiliary radiation on muscle formation and biliary duct remodeling after biliary duct balloon injury in dogs., Methods: Twenty male dogs (15 - 20 kg) were randomly divided into treatment group (n = 10) and control group (n = 10). Balloon overstretching injury was induced using a balloon catheter placed across the biliary duct. Subsequently, a 103Pd radioactive stent was positioned at the target site in each animal in the treatment group, providing the injured biliary duct with a radiation dose of 12.58 x 10(7) Bq. Dogs in the control group received Ni-Ti stents. All the dogs were killed one month after initial injury. The injured sections were dissected free from the dogs, and were processed for histological and morphological study. Cross-sections were stained with hematoxylin-eosin, Masson's trichrome, and Verhoef-van Giesen. Muscle formation area and lumen area were determined using a computer-assisted image analysis system., Results: Compared with the control group, 103Pd radioactive stents significantly reduced muscle formation area (78.3%, P < 0.01), and percentage area of stenosis [control stents: (60.0 +/- 21.6)%, 103Pd radioactive stents: (31.6 +/- 9.5)%]. In addition, in the treatment group, the biliary duct lumen area was significantly larger than that in the control group (P < 0.01)., Conclusions: 103Pd radioactive stents providing a radioactive dose of 12.58 x 10(7) Bq are effective in reducing muscle formation and biliary duct remodeling after balloon overstretching injury.

The epidemiological characteristics and etiology of botulism in China, as well as the distribution of different types of Clostridium botulinum in China, are described. Through 1989, 15 provinces and autonomous regions reported the occurrence of botulism. There were 2861 cases involved in 745 outbreaks. Among the cases 421 died, with a case fatality of 14.7%. The main epidemiological characteristics of botulism in China are: (i) the major foods causing botulism are homemade fermented bean products which accounted for 62.6% of the cases; (ii) the incubation period is longer (3 h-54 days) than that described in the western literature (mostly 2-7 days); (iii) the peak occurrence is from February to May; (iv) the progression of symptoms and signs is slower than that of western cases. All types of C. botulinum, with the exception of type G, have been found in China. The distribution of various types of C. botulinum is significantly different between southern and northern China; this is related to the latitude and is correlated with the prevalence of this disease. Most of the botulism outbreaks occurred above 30 degrees north latitude in northern China and outbreaks rarely occurred below 30 degrees north latitude. Nationwide surveys showed that the average detection rate of C. botulinum spores in soil and foods in the northern parts of China was 14.8%, while it was only 2.5% in the south. C. botulinum types A, B, E, and F, which are involved in human botulism, were frequently found in the North, while types C and D, which are involved only in animal intoxication, were found more frequently in the south.

The kinetics of the solid-state decomposition of aspirin was studied at 85 degrees, 80 degrees, 75 degrees, 70 degrees C and various relative humidities. Decomposition percentage of aspirin (x) and time (t) could be described by the equation: x = ktn where k is a constant which depends on the temperature and relative humidity. The water vapour pressure effected on the solid-state decomposition of aspirin may be presented by the Arrhenius equation: k = A.exp (-E/RT).Ps where T is the absolute temperature, P is water vapour pressure, s is a constant, R is the gas constant, A is another constant, E is the activation energy. From this equation, the activation energy of the decomposition of aspirin is calculated to be 122.17kJ.mol-1 (29.2 kcal.mol-1).