Objectives:This study aimed to survey the geriatric nursing competencies of clinical nursing staff in Chongqing City,China,and provide suggestions to enhance these competencies.Methods:This study was conducted in 204 ...Objectives:This study aimed to survey the geriatric nursing competencies of clinical nursing staff in Chongqing City,China,and provide suggestions to enhance these competencies.Methods:This study was conducted in 204 hospitals in Southwest China from December 24,2022 to January 7,2023.The“Geriatric Nursing Competence of Clinical Nurse Investigation Tool”was used to explore factors that influence geriatric nurses’competencies via stratified sampling.The survey was conducted by distributing and collecting questionnaires through the online platform Wenjuanxing.Results:A total of 10,692 nurses answered the questionnaires.Of these questionnaires,9,442 were valid.The total geriatric nursing competence score of the clinical nursing staff was 2.29±0.81,the secondary hospital score was 2.23±0.78,and the tertiary hospital’s overall mean score was 2.33±0.83.The factors that influenced secondary hospitals included the department of medicine,age of nurses and total length of career(P<0.05).The factors that influenced tertiary hospitals included the department of medicine,age of nurses,nurses’professional title,and geriatric practical advanced nurses’certification(P<0.05).Conclusions:Geriatric nursing competence among clinical nursing staff is imbalanced at a lower-middle level and is influenced by various factors.Thefindings highlight the need for further clinical training in geriatric nursing.The training of geriatric nurses should focus on necessary clinical skills and on preparing them to adequately manage comprehensive geriatric syndromes.展开更多
AIM:Acute hepatitis may seldom have a fulminant course. In the treatment of this medical emergency,potential liver support measure must provide immediate and sufficient assistance to the hepatic function.The goal of o...AIM:Acute hepatitis may seldom have a fulminant course. In the treatment of this medical emergency,potential liver support measure must provide immediate and sufficient assistance to the hepatic function.The goal of our study was to study the adequacy of hepatocyte transplantation (HCTx)in two different anatomical sites,splenic parenchyma and peritoneal cavity,in a rat model of reversible acute hepatitis induced by carbon tetrachloride(CCl_4). METHODS:After CCl_4 intoxication,84 male Wistar rats used as recipients were divided in to four experimental groups accordingly to their treatment:Group A(n=-24):intrasplenic transplantation of 10×10~6 isolated hepatocytes,Group B(n=24): intraperitoneal transplantation of 20×10~6 isolated hepatocytes attached on plastic microcarriers,Group C(n=-18):intrasplenic injection of 1 mL normal saline(sham-operated controls), Group D(n=-18):intraperitoneal injection of 2.5 mL normal saline(sham-operated controls).Survival,liver function tests (LFT)and histology were studied in all four groups,on d 2, 5 and 10 post-HCTx. RESULTS:The ten-day survival(and mean survival)in the 4 groups was 72.2%(8.1±3.1),33.3%(5.4±3.4),0% (3.1±1.3)and 33.3%(5.4±3.6)in groups A,B,C,D, respectively(P_(AB0<0.05,P_(AC)<0.05,P_(BD)=NS).In the final survivors,LFT(except alkaline phosphatase)and hepatic histology returned to normal,independently of their previous therapy.Viable hepatocytes were identified within splenic parenchyma(in group A on d 2)and both in the native liver and the fatty tissue of abdominal wall(in group B on d 5). CONCLUSION:A significantly better survival of the intrasplenically transplanted animals has been demonstrated. Intraperitoneal hepatocytes failed to promptly engraft.A different timing between liver injury and intraperitoneal HCTx may give better results and merits further investigation.展开更多
To evaluate isotopic tracers at natural abundances by providing basic isotope data of the hydrological investigations and assessing the impacts of different factors on the water cycle, a total of 197 water samples wer...To evaluate isotopic tracers at natural abundances by providing basic isotope data of the hydrological investigations and assessing the impacts of different factors on the water cycle, a total of 197 water samples were collected from the Laohugou Glacial catchment in the Shule River basin northwestern China during the 2013 ablation seasons and analyzed their H- and O-isotope composition. The results showed that the isotopic composition of precipitation in the Qilianshan Station in the Laohugou Glacial catchment was remarkable variability. Correspondingly, a higher slope of δ180-δD diagram, with an average of 8.74, is obtained based on the precipitation samples collected on the Glacier No.la, mainly attributed to the lower temperature on the glacier surface. Because of percolation and elution, the bottom of the firn the isotopic composition at is nearly steady. The 6180 /altitude gradients for precipitation and melt water were -o.37%o/100 m and -o.34%o/100 m, respectively Exposed to the air and influenced by strong ablation and evaporation, the isotopic values and the 6180 vs 6D diagram of the glacial surface ice show no altitudinal effect, indicating that glacier ice has the similar origins with the firn. The variation of isotopic composition in the melt water, varying from -l0.7‰ to -16.9‰ (8180) and from -61.1%o to -122.1%o (6D) indicates the recharging of snowmelt and glacial ice melt water produced at different altitudes. With a mean value of -13.3‰ for 8180 and -89.7‰ for 8D, the isotopic composition of the stream water is much closer to the melt water, indicating that stream water is mainly recharged by the ablation water. Our results of the stable isotopic compositions in natural water in the Laohugou Glacial catchment indicate the fractionations and the smoothing fluctuations of the stable isotopes during evaporation, infiltration and mixture.展开更多
Objective To evaluate whether cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) implantation was feasible and safe in octogenarians and the asso- ciation with symptoms. Methods Consecutive patients undergoing CRT implantation...Objective To evaluate whether cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) implantation was feasible and safe in octogenarians and the asso- ciation with symptoms. Methods Consecutive patients undergoing CRT implantation were recruited from two UK centers. Patients grouped according to age: 〈 80 & ≥ 80 years. Baseline demographics, complications and outcomes were compared between those groups. Results A total of 439 patients were included in this study, of whom 26% were aged ≥ 80 years. Octogenarians more often received cardiac resynchronization therapy pacemaker in comparison to cardiac resynchronisation therapy-defibrillator. Upgrade from pacemaker was common in both groups (16% 〈 80 years vs. 22% ≥ 80 years, P = NS). Co-morbidities were similarly common in both groups (overall diabetes: 25%, atrial fibrillation: 23%, hypertension: 45%). More patient age ≥ 80 years had significant chronic kidney disease (CKD, estimated glomerular filtration rate 〈 45 mL/min per 1.73 m^2, 44% vs. 22%, P 〈 0.01 ). Overall complication rates (any) were similar in both groups (16% vs. 17%, P = NS). Both groups demonstrated symptomatic benefit. One-year mortality rates were almost four fold greater in octogenarians as compared with the younger cohort (13.9% vs. 3.7%, P 〈 0.01). Conclusions CRT appears to be safe in the very elderly despite extensive co-morbidity, and in particular frequent severe CKD. Symptomatic improvement appears to be meaningful. Strategies to increase the appropriate identification of elderly patients with CHF who are potential candidates for CRT are required.展开更多
AIM: To determine the changes of gene expression profile in small intestinal allografts in rats after cold preservation/ reperfusion, and to identify the genes relevant to cold preservation/reperfusion injury. METHODS...AIM: To determine the changes of gene expression profile in small intestinal allografts in rats after cold preservation/ reperfusion, and to identify the genes relevant to cold preservation/reperfusion injury. METHODS: Heterotopic segmental small bowel transplantation was performed in six rats with a sham operation and they were used as controls. Total RNA was extracted from the allografts (experimental group) and normal intestines (control group) 1 h after cold preservation/ reperfusion, and then purified to mRNA, which was then reversely transcribed to cDNA, and labeled with fluorescent Cy5-dUTP and Cy3-dUTP to prepare hybridization probes. The mixed probes were hybridized to the cDNA microarray. After high-stringent washing, the fluorescent signals on cDNA microarray chip were scanned and analyzed. RESULTS: Among the 4 096 target genes, 82 differentially expressed genes were identified between the two groups. There were 18 novel genes, 33 expression sequence tags, and 31 previously reported genes. The selected genes may be divided into four classes: genes modulating cellular adhesion, genes regulating cellular energy, glucose and protein metabolism, early response genes and other genes. CONCLUSION: A total of 82 genes that may be relevant to cold preservation/reperfusion injury in small intestinal allografts are identified. Abnormal adhesion between polymorphonuclears and endothelia and failure in energy, glucose and protein metabolism of the grafts may contribute to preservation/reperfusion injury. The functions of the novel genes identified in our study need to be clarified further.展开更多
AIM: To approach the elusive function of the SLA/LP molecule, we have characterized genomic organization and conservation of the major antigenic and functional properties of the SLA/LP molecule in various species. ME...AIM: To approach the elusive function of the SLA/LP molecule, we have characterized genomic organization and conservation of the major antigenic and functional properties of the SLA/LP molecule in various species. METHODS: By means of computational biology, we have characterized the complete SLA/LP gene, mRNA and deduced protein sequences in man, mouse, zebrafish, fly, and worm. RESULTS: The human SLA/LP gene sequence of approximately 39 kb, which maps to chromosome 4p15.2, is organized in 11 exons, of which 10 or 11 are translated, depending on the splice variant. Homologous molecules were identified in several biological model organisms. The various homologous protein sequences showed a high degree of similarity or homology, notably at those residues that are of functional importance. The only domain of the human protein sequence that lacks significant homology with homologous sequences is the major antigenic epitope recognized by autoantibodies from autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) patients. CONCLUSION: The SLA/LP molecule and its functionally relevant residues have been highly conserved throughout the evoluti n, suggesting an indispensable function of the molecule. The finding that the only non-conserved domain is the dominant antigenic epitope of the human SLA/LP sequence, suggests that SLA/LP autoimmunity is autoantigen-driven rather than being driven by molecular mimicry.展开更多
Background Clinical outcomes of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in patients over the age of 80 have not been well de-scribed.MethodsWe retrospectively identified 96 consecutive patients≥ 80 years old who un...Background Clinical outcomes of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in patients over the age of 80 have not been well de-scribed.MethodsWe retrospectively identified 96 consecutive patients≥ 80 years old who underwent an initial implant or an upgrade to CRT, with or without defibrillator (CRT-Dvs. CRT-P), at our institution between January 2003 and July 2008. The control cohort consisted of 177 randomly selected patients 〈 80 years old undergoing CRT implant during the same time period. The primary efficacy endpoint was all-cause mortality at 36 months, assessed by Kaplan-Meier time to first event curves.Results In the octogenarian cohort, mean age at CRT implant was 83.1 ± 2.9 yearsvs. 60.1 ± 8.8 years among controls (P 〈 0.001). Across both groups, 70% were male, mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was 24.8% ± 14.1% and QRS duration was 154 ± 24.8 ms, without significant differences between groups. Octo-genarians were more likely to have ischemic cardiomyopathy (74%vs. 37%,P 〈 0.001) and more likely to undergo upgrade to CRT instead of an initial implant (42%vs. 19%,P 〈 0.001). The rate of appropriate defibrillator shocks was lower among octogenarians (14%vs. 27%,P = 0.02) whereas the rate of inappropriate shocks was similar (3%vs. 6%,P = 0.55). At 36 months, there was no significant difference in the rate of all-cause mortality between octogenarians (11%) and controls (8%,P = 0.381).ConclusionAppropriately selected octogenarians who are candidates for CRT have similar intermediate-term mortality compared to younger patients receiving CRT.展开更多
I have read the article entitled "Is cardiac resynchronisation therapy feasible, safe and beneficial in the very elderly?" by Olechowski, et al. with great interest, recently published in Journal of Geriatric Cardi...I have read the article entitled "Is cardiac resynchronisation therapy feasible, safe and beneficial in the very elderly?" by Olechowski, et al. with great interest, recently published in Journal of Geriatric Cardiology. The investigators reported that implantation of cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) is feasible and safe in very elderly despite extensive co-morbidity.展开更多
Background Arterial stiffness and homocysteine are both powerful predictors of cardiovascular disease, especially in older popula tions. Previous studies have investigated the association of homocysteine with arterial...Background Arterial stiffness and homocysteine are both powerful predictors of cardiovascular disease, especially in older popula tions. Previous studies have investigated the association of homocysteine with arterial stiffness in human subjects, while the relationship between homocysteine and arterial stiffness in the elderly is still indefinite. The current study examined the association of homocysteine with arterial stiffness in Chinese community-based elderly persons. Methods We related serum levels of homocysteine to two measures of arte- rial stiffness (carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV) and carotid-radial PWV) in 780 participants (46.3% men, mean age 71.9 years (ranging 65-96 years old)) from two communities of Beijing, China. Arterial stiffness were measured within two days of the time of bio- marker measurement. Results In multiple-adjusted models, homocysteine levels was strongly associated with the carotid-femoral PWV (standardized 13 = 0.13, P 〈 0.001), even after adjustment for classical risk factors of cardiovascular disease. The association is also stronger when the carotid-femoral PWV is elevated above normal, whereas no significant association with homocysteine was observed for ca-rotid-radial PWV. Conclusions In Chinese elderly persons, serum homocysteine levels are associated with alterations of aortic stiffness.展开更多
Laboratory incubation was conducted to investigate transformation of straw 14 C in Ultisol and Vertisol under aerobic condition for 112 d at 30 oC. Dried and ground 14 C labeled rice and maize...Laboratory incubation was conducted to investigate transformation of straw 14 C in Ultisol and Vertisol under aerobic condition for 112 d at 30 oC. Dried and ground 14 C labeled rice and maize straws were mixed with the soils at the rate of 2.5 g kg -1 . Decomposition of the straw C and native soil C both revealed two stages, being faster during the initial days, and slower thereafter. About 37.33%~48.80% of the straw C and 4.22%~6.83% of the native soil C decomposed by the end of the incubation. The kinds of the straws only slightly influenced the rates of their decomposition in soils, however, some retardation was found in Ultisol at the initial decomposition stage due to its lower pH. Positive priming effects were observed in the soils applied with straw, and the rate of priming effect ranged from 7.23% to 13.80%. Net losses of native soil C were found under such incubation conditions, except Ultisol with rice straw. Soil biomass C and 14 C decreased gradually with incubation time, and seemed to be consistent with the decomposition patterns of straw C and native soil C. The ratio of biomass 12 C to biomass 14 C ranged from 1.35 to 3.37. Soil biomass C occupied 1.17%~2.32% of the total soil organic C, and the proportion of biomass 14 C to the residual 14 C varied from 7.3% to 14.3%.展开更多
We read with interest the article by Olechowski, et aL recently published in the Journal of Geriatric Cardiology. The results of this retrospective analysis of patients under- going cardiac resynchronization therapy ...We read with interest the article by Olechowski, et aL recently published in the Journal of Geriatric Cardiology. The results of this retrospective analysis of patients under- going cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) device implantation are in line with previous reports, suggesting that resynchronization therapy in the elderly is feasible and may lead to significant improvement of cardiac function and clinical status.展开更多
We read the research article entitled Is cardiac resyn- chronisation therapy feasible, safe and beneficial in the very elderly? with great interest. The authors emphasized that despite the average age of heart failur...We read the research article entitled Is cardiac resyn- chronisation therapy feasible, safe and beneficial in the very elderly? with great interest. The authors emphasized that despite the average age of heart failure was 77 years in the general population of UK,patients receiving cardiac re- synchronisation therapy [with pacemaker alone (CRT-P) or with additional defibrillator capabilities (CRT-D)] were on younger ages at 72 and 67 years respectively. In the lights of this data, we agree with the authors that CRT seems to be undemtilized in the elderly patients with heart failure.展开更多
在《雪花与秘扇》(Snow Flower and the Secret Fan)中,邝丽莎通过一对"老同"之间的故事,深刻地再现了以姐妹情谊为中心的女权主义主题。值得一提的是,邝丽莎表现姐妹情谊的手法并不是采取平铺直叙的描写,而是以两姐妹命运的反差和...在《雪花与秘扇》(Snow Flower and the Secret Fan)中,邝丽莎通过一对"老同"之间的故事,深刻地再现了以姐妹情谊为中心的女权主义主题。值得一提的是,邝丽莎表现姐妹情谊的手法并不是采取平铺直叙的描写,而是以两姐妹命运的反差和两人关系的曲折变化再现这一主题的,起到了事半功倍的效果。展开更多
Stable hydrogen and oxygen isotope has important implication on water and mois- ture transportation tracing research. Based on stable hydrogen (6D) and oxygen (6180) isotope using a Picarro Ll102-i and water chemi...Stable hydrogen and oxygen isotope has important implication on water and mois- ture transportation tracing research. Based on stable hydrogen (6D) and oxygen (6180) isotope using a Picarro Ll102-i and water chemistry (e.g. major ions, pH, EC and TDS) meas- urement, this study discussed the temporal variation and characteristics of stable hydrogen and oxygen isotope, chemistry (e.g. TDS, pH, EC, Ca^2^, Mg2+, Na^+ and CI) in various water bodies including glacier meltwater runoff, ice and snow, and precipitation at the Laohugou g^acier basin during June 2012 to September 2013. Results showed that 6D and δ18O in the meltwater runoff varied obviously with the temporal change from June to September, showing firstly increasing trend and then decreasing trend, with the highest values in July with high air temperature and strong glacier melting, which could indicate the temporal change of glacier melting process and extent. Variations of 6D and δ18O in the runoff were similar with that of snow and ice on the glacier, and the values were also above the GMWL, which probably im- plied that the glacier runoff was mainly originated from glacier melting and precipitation supply The glacier meltwater chemical type at the Laohugou glacier basin were mainly composed by Ca-Na-HCO3-SO4 and Ca-Mg-HCO3-SO4, which also varied evidently with the glacier melting process in summer. By analyzing the temporal change of stable hydrogen and oxygen isotope and chemistry in the melting period, we find it is easy to separate the components of the snow and ice, atmospheric precipitation and melt-runoff in the river, which could reflect the change process of glacier melting during the melting period, and thus this work can contribute to the glacier runoff change study of large-scale region by stable isotope and geochemical method in future.展开更多
The class III homeodomain-leucine zipper(HD-Zip III)gene family plays important roles in plant growth and development,including regulation of apical embryo patterning,embryonic shoot meristem formation,leaf polarity,v...The class III homeodomain-leucine zipper(HD-Zip III)gene family plays important roles in plant growth and development,including regulation of apical embryo patterning,embryonic shoot meristem formation,leaf polarity,vascular development,and meristem function,with a particularly crucial function in leaf development.Although HD-Zip III members are highly conserved in land plants,previous studies,such as genetic analyses based on multiple mutants in Arabidopsis and other plants,suggest that various HD-Zip III family genes have evolved with distinct functions and pleiotropic effects on plant growth and development.In this study,we analyzed a HD-Zip III member,OsHox33,and demonstrated that it plays an important role in age-dependent leaf senescence in rice.We constructed two specific RNAi vectors derived from the 5′-end region and 3′-UTR of OsHox33 to knockdown its expression.Transgenic plants harboring either RNAi construct displayed similar phenotypes of precocious leaf senescence symptoms,suggesting that knockdown of OsHox33 accelerates leaf senescence in rice.pOsHox33::GUS fusion expression and RT-PCR revealed that OsHox33 is highly expressed in young organs,especially in young meristems such as shoot apical meristems,intercalary meristems,and young callus.In addition,real-time PCR indicated that OsHox33 was more highly expressed in young leaves than in old leaves.To further investigate OsHox33 function,we analyzed chloroplast ultrastructure in different-aged leaves of RNAi plants,and found that OsHox33 knockdown accelerated chloroplast degradation,which is consistent with RNAi phenotypes.Finally,real-time PCR studies showed that OsHox33 can regulate the expression of GS1 and GS2,two senescence-associated genes.Taken together,the work presented here provides new insights into the function of HD-Zip III members in plants.展开更多
基金supported by a key Program of the Chongqing Scientific and Technological Commission(Grant Number.CSTB2022TIAD-KPX0165).
文摘Objectives:This study aimed to survey the geriatric nursing competencies of clinical nursing staff in Chongqing City,China,and provide suggestions to enhance these competencies.Methods:This study was conducted in 204 hospitals in Southwest China from December 24,2022 to January 7,2023.The“Geriatric Nursing Competence of Clinical Nurse Investigation Tool”was used to explore factors that influence geriatric nurses’competencies via stratified sampling.The survey was conducted by distributing and collecting questionnaires through the online platform Wenjuanxing.Results:A total of 10,692 nurses answered the questionnaires.Of these questionnaires,9,442 were valid.The total geriatric nursing competence score of the clinical nursing staff was 2.29±0.81,the secondary hospital score was 2.23±0.78,and the tertiary hospital’s overall mean score was 2.33±0.83.The factors that influenced secondary hospitals included the department of medicine,age of nurses and total length of career(P<0.05).The factors that influenced tertiary hospitals included the department of medicine,age of nurses,nurses’professional title,and geriatric practical advanced nurses’certification(P<0.05).Conclusions:Geriatric nursing competence among clinical nursing staff is imbalanced at a lower-middle level and is influenced by various factors.Thefindings highlight the need for further clinical training in geriatric nursing.The training of geriatric nurses should focus on necessary clinical skills and on preparing them to adequately manage comprehensive geriatric syndromes.
文摘AIM:Acute hepatitis may seldom have a fulminant course. In the treatment of this medical emergency,potential liver support measure must provide immediate and sufficient assistance to the hepatic function.The goal of our study was to study the adequacy of hepatocyte transplantation (HCTx)in two different anatomical sites,splenic parenchyma and peritoneal cavity,in a rat model of reversible acute hepatitis induced by carbon tetrachloride(CCl_4). METHODS:After CCl_4 intoxication,84 male Wistar rats used as recipients were divided in to four experimental groups accordingly to their treatment:Group A(n=-24):intrasplenic transplantation of 10×10~6 isolated hepatocytes,Group B(n=24): intraperitoneal transplantation of 20×10~6 isolated hepatocytes attached on plastic microcarriers,Group C(n=-18):intrasplenic injection of 1 mL normal saline(sham-operated controls), Group D(n=-18):intraperitoneal injection of 2.5 mL normal saline(sham-operated controls).Survival,liver function tests (LFT)and histology were studied in all four groups,on d 2, 5 and 10 post-HCTx. RESULTS:The ten-day survival(and mean survival)in the 4 groups was 72.2%(8.1±3.1),33.3%(5.4±3.4),0% (3.1±1.3)and 33.3%(5.4±3.6)in groups A,B,C,D, respectively(P_(AB0<0.05,P_(AC)<0.05,P_(BD)=NS).In the final survivors,LFT(except alkaline phosphatase)and hepatic histology returned to normal,independently of their previous therapy.Viable hepatocytes were identified within splenic parenchyma(in group A on d 2)and both in the native liver and the fatty tissue of abdominal wall(in group B on d 5). CONCLUSION:A significantly better survival of the intrasplenically transplanted animals has been demonstrated. Intraperitoneal hepatocytes failed to promptly engraft.A different timing between liver injury and intraperitoneal HCTx may give better results and merits further investigation.
基金the projects of National Major Scientific Research Project (2013CBA01806)National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 41271085,41130641)open fund project of State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science (SKLCS-OP2013-05)
文摘To evaluate isotopic tracers at natural abundances by providing basic isotope data of the hydrological investigations and assessing the impacts of different factors on the water cycle, a total of 197 water samples were collected from the Laohugou Glacial catchment in the Shule River basin northwestern China during the 2013 ablation seasons and analyzed their H- and O-isotope composition. The results showed that the isotopic composition of precipitation in the Qilianshan Station in the Laohugou Glacial catchment was remarkable variability. Correspondingly, a higher slope of δ180-δD diagram, with an average of 8.74, is obtained based on the precipitation samples collected on the Glacier No.la, mainly attributed to the lower temperature on the glacier surface. Because of percolation and elution, the bottom of the firn the isotopic composition at is nearly steady. The 6180 /altitude gradients for precipitation and melt water were -o.37%o/100 m and -o.34%o/100 m, respectively Exposed to the air and influenced by strong ablation and evaporation, the isotopic values and the 6180 vs 6D diagram of the glacial surface ice show no altitudinal effect, indicating that glacier ice has the similar origins with the firn. The variation of isotopic composition in the melt water, varying from -l0.7‰ to -16.9‰ (8180) and from -61.1%o to -122.1%o (6D) indicates the recharging of snowmelt and glacial ice melt water produced at different altitudes. With a mean value of -13.3‰ for 8180 and -89.7‰ for 8D, the isotopic composition of the stream water is much closer to the melt water, indicating that stream water is mainly recharged by the ablation water. Our results of the stable isotopic compositions in natural water in the Laohugou Glacial catchment indicate the fractionations and the smoothing fluctuations of the stable isotopes during evaporation, infiltration and mixture.
文摘Objective To evaluate whether cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) implantation was feasible and safe in octogenarians and the asso- ciation with symptoms. Methods Consecutive patients undergoing CRT implantation were recruited from two UK centers. Patients grouped according to age: 〈 80 & ≥ 80 years. Baseline demographics, complications and outcomes were compared between those groups. Results A total of 439 patients were included in this study, of whom 26% were aged ≥ 80 years. Octogenarians more often received cardiac resynchronization therapy pacemaker in comparison to cardiac resynchronisation therapy-defibrillator. Upgrade from pacemaker was common in both groups (16% 〈 80 years vs. 22% ≥ 80 years, P = NS). Co-morbidities were similarly common in both groups (overall diabetes: 25%, atrial fibrillation: 23%, hypertension: 45%). More patient age ≥ 80 years had significant chronic kidney disease (CKD, estimated glomerular filtration rate 〈 45 mL/min per 1.73 m^2, 44% vs. 22%, P 〈 0.01 ). Overall complication rates (any) were similar in both groups (16% vs. 17%, P = NS). Both groups demonstrated symptomatic benefit. One-year mortality rates were almost four fold greater in octogenarians as compared with the younger cohort (13.9% vs. 3.7%, P 〈 0.01). Conclusions CRT appears to be safe in the very elderly despite extensive co-morbidity, and in particular frequent severe CKD. Symptomatic improvement appears to be meaningful. Strategies to increase the appropriate identification of elderly patients with CHF who are potential candidates for CRT are required.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No. 30271275
文摘AIM: To determine the changes of gene expression profile in small intestinal allografts in rats after cold preservation/ reperfusion, and to identify the genes relevant to cold preservation/reperfusion injury. METHODS: Heterotopic segmental small bowel transplantation was performed in six rats with a sham operation and they were used as controls. Total RNA was extracted from the allografts (experimental group) and normal intestines (control group) 1 h after cold preservation/ reperfusion, and then purified to mRNA, which was then reversely transcribed to cDNA, and labeled with fluorescent Cy5-dUTP and Cy3-dUTP to prepare hybridization probes. The mixed probes were hybridized to the cDNA microarray. After high-stringent washing, the fluorescent signals on cDNA microarray chip were scanned and analyzed. RESULTS: Among the 4 096 target genes, 82 differentially expressed genes were identified between the two groups. There were 18 novel genes, 33 expression sequence tags, and 31 previously reported genes. The selected genes may be divided into four classes: genes modulating cellular adhesion, genes regulating cellular energy, glucose and protein metabolism, early response genes and other genes. CONCLUSION: A total of 82 genes that may be relevant to cold preservation/reperfusion injury in small intestinal allografts are identified. Abnormal adhesion between polymorphonuclears and endothelia and failure in energy, glucose and protein metabolism of the grafts may contribute to preservation/reperfusion injury. The functions of the novel genes identified in our study need to be clarified further.
基金Supported by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft(SFB 548)
文摘AIM: To approach the elusive function of the SLA/LP molecule, we have characterized genomic organization and conservation of the major antigenic and functional properties of the SLA/LP molecule in various species. METHODS: By means of computational biology, we have characterized the complete SLA/LP gene, mRNA and deduced protein sequences in man, mouse, zebrafish, fly, and worm. RESULTS: The human SLA/LP gene sequence of approximately 39 kb, which maps to chromosome 4p15.2, is organized in 11 exons, of which 10 or 11 are translated, depending on the splice variant. Homologous molecules were identified in several biological model organisms. The various homologous protein sequences showed a high degree of similarity or homology, notably at those residues that are of functional importance. The only domain of the human protein sequence that lacks significant homology with homologous sequences is the major antigenic epitope recognized by autoantibodies from autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) patients. CONCLUSION: The SLA/LP molecule and its functionally relevant residues have been highly conserved throughout the evoluti n, suggesting an indispensable function of the molecule. The finding that the only non-conserved domain is the dominant antigenic epitope of the human SLA/LP sequence, suggests that SLA/LP autoimmunity is autoantigen-driven rather than being driven by molecular mimicry.
文摘Background Clinical outcomes of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in patients over the age of 80 have not been well de-scribed.MethodsWe retrospectively identified 96 consecutive patients≥ 80 years old who underwent an initial implant or an upgrade to CRT, with or without defibrillator (CRT-Dvs. CRT-P), at our institution between January 2003 and July 2008. The control cohort consisted of 177 randomly selected patients 〈 80 years old undergoing CRT implant during the same time period. The primary efficacy endpoint was all-cause mortality at 36 months, assessed by Kaplan-Meier time to first event curves.Results In the octogenarian cohort, mean age at CRT implant was 83.1 ± 2.9 yearsvs. 60.1 ± 8.8 years among controls (P 〈 0.001). Across both groups, 70% were male, mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was 24.8% ± 14.1% and QRS duration was 154 ± 24.8 ms, without significant differences between groups. Octo-genarians were more likely to have ischemic cardiomyopathy (74%vs. 37%,P 〈 0.001) and more likely to undergo upgrade to CRT instead of an initial implant (42%vs. 19%,P 〈 0.001). The rate of appropriate defibrillator shocks was lower among octogenarians (14%vs. 27%,P = 0.02) whereas the rate of inappropriate shocks was similar (3%vs. 6%,P = 0.55). At 36 months, there was no significant difference in the rate of all-cause mortality between octogenarians (11%) and controls (8%,P = 0.381).ConclusionAppropriately selected octogenarians who are candidates for CRT have similar intermediate-term mortality compared to younger patients receiving CRT.
文摘I have read the article entitled "Is cardiac resynchronisation therapy feasible, safe and beneficial in the very elderly?" by Olechowski, et al. with great interest, recently published in Journal of Geriatric Cardiology. The investigators reported that implantation of cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) is feasible and safe in very elderly despite extensive co-morbidity.
基金grants from the Key National Basic Research Program of China,Nature Science Foundation of China (81270941) to Ye P,and the Nature Science Foundation of China,the Beijing Nova Program (Z121107002513124) to Bai Y
文摘Background Arterial stiffness and homocysteine are both powerful predictors of cardiovascular disease, especially in older popula tions. Previous studies have investigated the association of homocysteine with arterial stiffness in human subjects, while the relationship between homocysteine and arterial stiffness in the elderly is still indefinite. The current study examined the association of homocysteine with arterial stiffness in Chinese community-based elderly persons. Methods We related serum levels of homocysteine to two measures of arte- rial stiffness (carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV) and carotid-radial PWV) in 780 participants (46.3% men, mean age 71.9 years (ranging 65-96 years old)) from two communities of Beijing, China. Arterial stiffness were measured within two days of the time of bio- marker measurement. Results In multiple-adjusted models, homocysteine levels was strongly associated with the carotid-femoral PWV (standardized 13 = 0.13, P 〈 0.001), even after adjustment for classical risk factors of cardiovascular disease. The association is also stronger when the carotid-femoral PWV is elevated above normal, whereas no significant association with homocysteine was observed for ca-rotid-radial PWV. Conclusions In Chinese elderly persons, serum homocysteine levels are associated with alterations of aortic stiffness.
文摘Laboratory incubation was conducted to investigate transformation of straw 14 C in Ultisol and Vertisol under aerobic condition for 112 d at 30 oC. Dried and ground 14 C labeled rice and maize straws were mixed with the soils at the rate of 2.5 g kg -1 . Decomposition of the straw C and native soil C both revealed two stages, being faster during the initial days, and slower thereafter. About 37.33%~48.80% of the straw C and 4.22%~6.83% of the native soil C decomposed by the end of the incubation. The kinds of the straws only slightly influenced the rates of their decomposition in soils, however, some retardation was found in Ultisol at the initial decomposition stage due to its lower pH. Positive priming effects were observed in the soils applied with straw, and the rate of priming effect ranged from 7.23% to 13.80%. Net losses of native soil C were found under such incubation conditions, except Ultisol with rice straw. Soil biomass C and 14 C decreased gradually with incubation time, and seemed to be consistent with the decomposition patterns of straw C and native soil C. The ratio of biomass 12 C to biomass 14 C ranged from 1.35 to 3.37. Soil biomass C occupied 1.17%~2.32% of the total soil organic C, and the proportion of biomass 14 C to the residual 14 C varied from 7.3% to 14.3%.
文摘We read with interest the article by Olechowski, et aL recently published in the Journal of Geriatric Cardiology. The results of this retrospective analysis of patients under- going cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) device implantation are in line with previous reports, suggesting that resynchronization therapy in the elderly is feasible and may lead to significant improvement of cardiac function and clinical status.
文摘We read the research article entitled Is cardiac resyn- chronisation therapy feasible, safe and beneficial in the very elderly? with great interest. The authors emphasized that despite the average age of heart failure was 77 years in the general population of UK,patients receiving cardiac re- synchronisation therapy [with pacemaker alone (CRT-P) or with additional defibrillator capabilities (CRT-D)] were on younger ages at 72 and 67 years respectively. In the lights of this data, we agree with the authors that CRT seems to be undemtilized in the elderly patients with heart failure.
文摘在《雪花与秘扇》(Snow Flower and the Secret Fan)中,邝丽莎通过一对"老同"之间的故事,深刻地再现了以姐妹情谊为中心的女权主义主题。值得一提的是,邝丽莎表现姐妹情谊的手法并不是采取平铺直叙的描写,而是以两姐妹命运的反差和两人关系的曲折变化再现这一主题的,起到了事半功倍的效果。
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.41301065The West Light Program for Talent Cultivation of Chinese Academy of Sciences
文摘Stable hydrogen and oxygen isotope has important implication on water and mois- ture transportation tracing research. Based on stable hydrogen (6D) and oxygen (6180) isotope using a Picarro Ll102-i and water chemistry (e.g. major ions, pH, EC and TDS) meas- urement, this study discussed the temporal variation and characteristics of stable hydrogen and oxygen isotope, chemistry (e.g. TDS, pH, EC, Ca^2^, Mg2+, Na^+ and CI) in various water bodies including glacier meltwater runoff, ice and snow, and precipitation at the Laohugou g^acier basin during June 2012 to September 2013. Results showed that 6D and δ18O in the meltwater runoff varied obviously with the temporal change from June to September, showing firstly increasing trend and then decreasing trend, with the highest values in July with high air temperature and strong glacier melting, which could indicate the temporal change of glacier melting process and extent. Variations of 6D and δ18O in the runoff were similar with that of snow and ice on the glacier, and the values were also above the GMWL, which probably im- plied that the glacier runoff was mainly originated from glacier melting and precipitation supply The glacier meltwater chemical type at the Laohugou glacier basin were mainly composed by Ca-Na-HCO3-SO4 and Ca-Mg-HCO3-SO4, which also varied evidently with the glacier melting process in summer. By analyzing the temporal change of stable hydrogen and oxygen isotope and chemistry in the melting period, we find it is easy to separate the components of the snow and ice, atmospheric precipitation and melt-runoff in the river, which could reflect the change process of glacier melting during the melting period, and thus this work can contribute to the glacier runoff change study of large-scale region by stable isotope and geochemical method in future.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31171515)the Tianjin Natural Science Foundation of China(11JCZDJC17900)the Knowledge Innovation and Training Program of Tianjin,Tianjin Municipal Education Commission(2013-1-2015-12)
文摘The class III homeodomain-leucine zipper(HD-Zip III)gene family plays important roles in plant growth and development,including regulation of apical embryo patterning,embryonic shoot meristem formation,leaf polarity,vascular development,and meristem function,with a particularly crucial function in leaf development.Although HD-Zip III members are highly conserved in land plants,previous studies,such as genetic analyses based on multiple mutants in Arabidopsis and other plants,suggest that various HD-Zip III family genes have evolved with distinct functions and pleiotropic effects on plant growth and development.In this study,we analyzed a HD-Zip III member,OsHox33,and demonstrated that it plays an important role in age-dependent leaf senescence in rice.We constructed two specific RNAi vectors derived from the 5′-end region and 3′-UTR of OsHox33 to knockdown its expression.Transgenic plants harboring either RNAi construct displayed similar phenotypes of precocious leaf senescence symptoms,suggesting that knockdown of OsHox33 accelerates leaf senescence in rice.pOsHox33::GUS fusion expression and RT-PCR revealed that OsHox33 is highly expressed in young organs,especially in young meristems such as shoot apical meristems,intercalary meristems,and young callus.In addition,real-time PCR indicated that OsHox33 was more highly expressed in young leaves than in old leaves.To further investigate OsHox33 function,we analyzed chloroplast ultrastructure in different-aged leaves of RNAi plants,and found that OsHox33 knockdown accelerated chloroplast degradation,which is consistent with RNAi phenotypes.Finally,real-time PCR studies showed that OsHox33 can regulate the expression of GS1 and GS2,two senescence-associated genes.Taken together,the work presented here provides new insights into the function of HD-Zip III members in plants.