Congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF) is an autosomal recessive disorder that belongs to the family of fibropolycystic liver diseases. This family includes a spectrum of disorders which are usually found in combination wi...Congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF) is an autosomal recessive disorder that belongs to the family of fibropolycystic liver diseases. This family includes a spectrum of disorders which are usually found in combination with each other and are usually inherited. Clinically fibropolycystic diseases have three effects being present in different proportions, those of a space occupying lesion, of portal hypertension and of cholangitis. In most patients, the first manifestations of CHF are signs and symptoms related to portal hypertension such as splenomegaly and varices. Portal hypertension in these patients has been attributed to the hypoplasia or compression of the portal vein radicles in the fibrous bands. Cavernous transformation of the portal vein (CTPV) is a relatively rare condition resulting from extrahepatic portal vein obstruction with recanalization or collateral vein formation to bypass the obstruction. It has been found that patients with CHF having an accompanying CTPV have relatively large splenomegaly and suffers more frequent episodes of bleeding from esophageal varices.We believe that CTPV is a congenital component of CHF and also one of the important causative factors of portal hypertension in these patients.展开更多
This study aims to find the altitudinal distribution pattern of vascular plant species reported from high mountain of Nepal(Manang) along the whole Himalayan elevation gradient, and evaluate their fate against climate...This study aims to find the altitudinal distribution pattern of vascular plant species reported from high mountain of Nepal(Manang) along the whole Himalayan elevation gradient, and evaluate their fate against climate change. Data was gathered from multiple sources, field investigations, literatures, and herbarium specimens. Altogether, 303 vascular plant species were reported from Manang. We used a published data to calculate distribution range of each species by interpolating between its upper and lower elevation limits. The relationship between elevation and species richness is elucidated by generalized linear model. The consequence of global warming upon Manang's vascular plant species was estimated based on projected temperature change for next century and adiabatic lapse rate along the elevation gradient of the Himalayas. The vascular plant species richness has a unimodel relationship with elevation along the whole elevation gradient of Nepal as well as in three biogeographical regions of Nepal. Vascular plants of Manang are found distributed from low land Terai to high alpine regions of Nepal and their elevation distribution range varies from 200 to 4700 m. Out of 303 vascular plants of Manang, only seven species might be affected if temperature increase by 1.5°C, whereas at least 70 species will be affected with 5°C temperature increased. However, the majority of species(233 species) have wider distribution range(> 1000 m) and more than 5°C temperature tolerance range, thus they are likely to be less affected from global warming by the end of 21 st century.展开更多
Measurements of seafloor asymmetry at about 360 000 pairs of conjugate points along 1250 profiles across the mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR) provide new constraints on models for the upwelling of the buoyant asthenosphere. T...Measurements of seafloor asymmetry at about 360 000 pairs of conjugate points along 1250 profiles across the mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR) provide new constraints on models for the upwelling of the buoyant asthenosphere. The sign and amplitude of the asymmetry vary systematically and are functions of the distance between the spreading center and the location of the inferred location of maximum regional buoyancy (LMRB) in the asthenosphere. The LMRB is a smooth line derived from the observed asymmetry and is more centered at the regional topographic high than the spreading center. These observations are best explained by active upwelling of the underlying buoyant asthenosphere rather than by pressure-release melting.展开更多
Biliary disease in the setting of non-cirrhotic portal vein thrombosis(and similarly in portal vein cavernous transformation) can become a serious problem during the evolution of disease.This is mostly due to portal b...Biliary disease in the setting of non-cirrhotic portal vein thrombosis(and similarly in portal vein cavernous transformation) can become a serious problem during the evolution of disease.This is mostly due to portal biliary ductopathy.There are several mechanisms that play a role in the development of portal biliary ductopathy,such as induction of fibrosis in the biliary tract(due to direct action of dilated peribiliary collaterals and/or recurrent cholangitis),loss of biliary motility,chronic cholestasis(due to fibrosis or choledocholithiasis) and increased formation of cholelithiasis(due to various factors).The management of cholelithiasis in cases with portal vein cavernous transformation merits special attention.Because of a heterogeneous clinical presentation and concomitant pathophysiological changes that take place in biliary anatomy,diagnosis and therapy can become very complicated.Due to increased incidence and complications of cholelithiasis,standard treatment modalities like sphincterotomy or balloon sweeping of bile ducts can cause serious problems.Cholangitis,biliary strictures and hemobilia are the most common complications that occur during management of these patients.In this review,we specifically discuss important issues about bile stones related to bile duct obstruction in non-cirrhotic portal vein thrombosis and present evidence in the current literature.展开更多
Due to their ecological disadvantages, many mountain regions have experienced land-use abandonment and shrub encroachment on former grassland at higher altitudinal zones--especially during recent decades of urbanizati...Due to their ecological disadvantages, many mountain regions have experienced land-use abandonment and shrub encroachment on former grassland at higher altitudinal zones--especially during recent decades of urbanization. But does this trend also apply to the hinterland of urban settlements? By using the Southern Colombian example of Popay^n, a medium-sized city located in the Northern Andes, we can show that the landscape changes observed between 1989 and 2010 can hardly be related to agricultural abandonment. Hypsometric variations of land-cover change indicate that, until 2001, woods or shrubland expanded faster at the lower altitudinal range adjacent to the city than at the more remote higher zones. In contrast, after 2001 grassland areas increased on former woods or shrnbland at all altitudinal belts. Both periods thus present developments that can be interpreted as the result of land-use expansion below 2000 m asl and land-use persistence in the tierrafrla of the mountain city's hinterland.展开更多
Background Thalassemic patients demonstrate an increased rate of extracardiae vascular complications and increased carotid wall intima-media thickness (cIMT), but very low prevalence of coronary artery disease (CAD...Background Thalassemic patients demonstrate an increased rate of extracardiae vascular complications and increased carotid wall intima-media thickness (cIMT), but very low prevalence of coronary artery disease (CAD). We investigated the atheroma burden by assessing the coronary artery calcium (CAC) and elMT in these patients. Methods We examined 37 patients with β-thalassemia and 150 healthy control volunteers with multi-detector computer tomography (CT) and ultrasonography to determine CAC score and cIMT, respectively. Results Propensity score matching (C-statistic: 0.88; 95% CI: 0.83-0.93) resulted in 27 pairs of patients; severe CAC was observed in 2 (7.4%) and 0 of β-thalassemia patients and healthy volunteers respectively (P = 0.5). Median calcium score was 0 (0-0) in β-thalassemia patients and 0 (0-4) in healthy volunteers (P = 0.8). Median intima-media thickness was higher in β-thalassemia patients compared to control group [0.45 (0.06-0.65) vs. 0.062 (0.054-0.086); P = 0.04]. Conclusions Patients with β-thalassemia in comparison with healthy control subjects exhibit similar CAC score and increased cIMT. Our findings indicate a disparate rate of progression of atherosclerosis between coronary and extracardiac arteries in these patients lending support to the epidemiological evidence.展开更多
This study examined the nitrogen cycling associated with agricultural production and environmental load in central Hokkaido. The nitrogen (N) budget analysis model offers a new set of tools for evaluating N cycling in...This study examined the nitrogen cycling associated with agricultural production and environmental load in central Hokkaido. The nitrogen (N) budget analysis model offers a new set of tools for evaluating N cycling in agro-ecosystems. The cycling index (CI) is a useful tool for estimating optimal N flows in farmlands. The fertilization index (FI) is a useful indicator for characterizing the N flows related to farms. Using these parameters, we analyzed all farm systems to estimate the optimal N cycling for minimizing N pollution in groundwater and maximizing agricultural production in mountain regions of Japan. The results showed that the critical N application rate (chemical fertilizer + manure) was 143.3 kg N ha-1 y-1. The critical inter-system input (chemical fertilizer N, imported food and feed N, and natural supplied N) was 169.2 kg N ha-1 y-1.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the role of 64-slice computed tomography(CT) in portal vein cavernous transformation to determine surgical strategy.METHODS:The site of lesions and extent of collateral circulation in 12 pediatric c...AIM:To investigate the role of 64-slice computed tomography(CT) in portal vein cavernous transformation to determine surgical strategy.METHODS:The site of lesions and extent of collateral circulation in 12 pediatric cases of cavernous transformation of the portal vein with surgical treatment were analyzed.RESULTS:Eleven of 12 children had esophageal varices and were treated with lower esophageal and gastric devascularization and splenectomy,and the other case was only treated with splenectomy.There were eight cases with spontaneous spleen/stomach-renal shunt,four with Retzius vein opening,which was reserved during surgery.Three cases of lesions involving the intrahepatic portal vein(PV) were treated with living donor liver transplantation.One patient died from PV thrombosis after liver transplantation,and the rest had no significant complications.CONCLUSION:The PV,its branches and collateral circulation were clearly seen by 64-slice spiral CT angiography,which helped with preoperative surgical planning.展开更多
The aim of the study is to monitor and assess landslide hazards by remote sensing data processing and GIS (Geographic Information Service) spatial analysis. Idukki district, the western Ghats of India was chosen as ...The aim of the study is to monitor and assess landslide hazards by remote sensing data processing and GIS (Geographic Information Service) spatial analysis. Idukki district, the western Ghats of India was chosen as test area, because of frequent destructive mass wasting processes. Western Ghats is a prominent orographic feature that runs parallel to the south west coast of India. Predicting landslide hazard on a regional scale, namely the assessment of actual and potential mass movement over large area is carried out using Remote Sensing and GIS. A numerical weightage to the causative factors of slope instability such as slope, relative relief, aspect, curvature, drainage density, drainage frequency, land use, road buffer and drainage buffer are assigned as per earlier workers for the purpose of landslide susceptibility zonation. A high degree of match is found between observed and predicted landslide hazard by the procedure employed in the study.展开更多
AIM:To assess the effectiveness of and complications associated with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and gelatin sponge particles embolization of splenic artery pseudoaneurysm complicating chronic alcoholic pancreatitis. METH...AIM:To assess the effectiveness of and complications associated with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and gelatin sponge particles embolization of splenic artery pseudoaneurysm complicating chronic alcoholic pancreatitis. METHODS: A 42-year-old man with splenic artery pseudoaneurysm formation secondary to chronic alcoholic pancreatitis was admitted. We used PVA and gelatin sponge particles embolization of splenic artery pseudoaneurysm by super-selective embolization techniques. RESULTS: The splenic artery pseudoaneurysm was successfully controlled with splenic embolization. The patient was discharged in 9 d with complete recovery. CONCLUSION: This case confirms that superselective transcatheter embolization by PVA and gelatin sponge particles may represent an effective treatment for pseudoaneurysm caused by chronic alcoholic pancreatitis in the absence of other therapeutic alternatives.展开更多
Several studies have indicated that fucoidan fractions with low molecular weight and different sulfate content from Laminaria japonica could inhibit the activation of platelets directly by reducing the platelet aggreg...Several studies have indicated that fucoidan fractions with low molecular weight and different sulfate content from Laminaria japonica could inhibit the activation of platelets directly by reducing the platelet aggregation. To explore the direct effect of LMW fucoidan on the platelet system furthermore and examine the possible mechanism, the endothelial protection and inhibits platelet activation effects of two LMW fucoidan were investigated. In the present study, Endothelial injury model of rats was made by injection of adrenaline(0.4 mg kg-1) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells were cultured. v WF level was be investigated in vivo and in vitro as an important index of endothelial injury. LMW fucoidan could significantly reduce v WF level in vascular endothelial injury rats and also significantly reduce v WF level in vitro. The number of EMPs was be detected as another important index of endothelial injury. The results showed that LMW fucoidan reduced EMPs stimulated by tumor necrosis factor. In this study, it was found that by inhibiting platelet adhesion, LMW fucoidan played a role in anti-thrombosis and the specific mechanism of action is to inhibit the flow of extracellular Ca2+. All in a word, LMW fucoidan could inhibit the activation of platelets indirectly by reducing the concentration of EMPs and v WF, at the same time; LMW fucoidan inhibited the activation of platelets directly by inhibiting the flow of extracellular Ca2+.展开更多
Objective:To evaluate the safety and efficiency of transvenous embolization of dural arteriovenous fistula of cavernous region by multiple venous routes. Methods: Twenty seven patients with dural arteriovenous fistu...Objective:To evaluate the safety and efficiency of transvenous embolization of dural arteriovenous fistula of cavernous region by multiple venous routes. Methods: Twenty seven patients with dural arteriovenous fistula of cavernous region were treated by transvenous embolization with micro-coils. The transvenous routes included inferior petrosal sinus, superior ophthalmic vein and facial vein. Results: Clinical cure was achieved in 23 cases and significant improvement of symptoms in 4 cases. Complete anglographic obliteration was documented in 22 patients (82%). Residual shunting were left in 2 patients via pterygoid drainage and 1 case via inter-cavernous sinus, 2 cases via inferior petrosal sinus, disappeared one month later by manual compression carotid artery. Headache and vomiting were the most common symptoms after embolization. Three patients had diplopia and relieved within two months after embolization. There was no permanent procedure-related morbidity. The clinic follow up ranged from 5 months to 6 years, and there was not recurrence case. Conclusion: Transvenous embolization via different venous routes is a safe and efficient method for dural arteriovenous fistula of cavernous region treatment.展开更多
To evaluate the therapeutic effects of Rong Shuan Jiao Nang (RSJN) on treatment of acute mountain sickness (AMS) and high altitude myocardial ischemic syndrome in workers in Yushu, three groups were studied: grou...To evaluate the therapeutic effects of Rong Shuan Jiao Nang (RSJN) on treatment of acute mountain sickness (AMS) and high altitude myocardial ischemic syndrome in workers in Yushu, three groups were studied: group A (60 patients with AMS, given RSJN), group B (15 patients with altitude myocardial ischemic syndrome, given RSJN), and group C (control, without drugs). All studied subjects were lowland workers who were first time entry to Yushu for work at an altitude of 4 250 m. During the course of treatment, a routing physical examina- tion was performed, AMS Lake Louise Scores were estimated, arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2), electrocardiography and hemoglobin concentration were measured before and after using RSJN for 10 days. In group A, the effective rate was 68 %, symptomatic improvement in 54 cases (90 %) within 5 days. In group B, the effective rate was 93 %, episodes of angina pectoris stopped in 12 patients within 3 - 7 days, one lasted 8 days. After treatment, the level of SaO2 increased 15.5 %, 21.8 % and 5.6 % in group A, group B and group C, respectively. RSJN tak- en at the start of the arrival at Yushu can decrease AMS scores and facilitate cure. If taken after the illness has begun, RSJN may help lessen symptoms, especially effectively improved angina pectoris of the high altitude myocardial ischemic syndrome. Symptoms usually subside after 3 - 8 days. RSJN should be continually used lbr at least 7 days after ascent.展开更多
Over the last decades, the usage of PAM (pulse amplitude modulated) fluorometers for assessment of chlorophyll-a fluorescence variations became widely applied on marine macroalgae physiology and ecophysiology resear...Over the last decades, the usage of PAM (pulse amplitude modulated) fluorometers for assessment of chlorophyll-a fluorescence variations became widely applied on marine macroalgae physiology and ecophysiology researches. Due to the increased use of these methods, a large number of studies, mainly relating to macroalgae ecology and physiology were worldwide reported. In this context, it was also created a mismatch of concepts about fluorescence of the chlorophyll-a and its application. Under this background, this study compile and summarize the state of the art knowledge regarding to the chlorophyll fluorescence, contextualizing the use of the PAM method with the main factors regulating photosynthesis (light, temperature, salinity nitrogen and phosphorus) in marine macroalgae. Moreover, this study also references the most used terms and shows some examples found in literature about the applicability of fluorescence parameters. The herein findings and the discussed examples, helps to emphasize the importance of fluorescence usage, that highlights the understanding of photosynthetic responses in macroalgal physiology and ecology.展开更多
A rapid, sensitive and reproducible high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method with post-column fluorescence derivatization has been developed to determine the amount of low-molecular- weight sulfated poly...A rapid, sensitive and reproducible high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method with post-column fluorescence derivatization has been developed to determine the amount of low-molecular- weight sulfated polysaccharide (GFS) in vivo. The metabolism of GFS has been shown to fit a two component model following its administration by intravenous injection, and its pharmacokinetic parameters were determined to be as follows: half-time of distribution phase (t1/2α)=11.2±2.93 min, half-time of elimination phase (tl/2α)=98.20±25.78 min, maximum concentration (Cmax)=110.53 gg/mL and peak time (Tmax)=5 min. The pharmacokinetic behavior of GFS was also investigated following intragastric administration. However, the concentration of GFS found in serum was too low for detection, and GFS could only be detected for up to 2 h after intragastric administration (200 mg/kg body weight). Thus, the bioavailability of GFS was low following intragastric administration because of the metabolism of GFS. In conclusion, HPLC with post-column derivatization could be used for quantitative microanalysis and pharmacokinetic studies to determine the presence of polysaccharides in the serum following intravenous injection.展开更多
Objective: To evaluate the technical aspects, efficacy and safety in the treatment of cavernous dural arteriovenous fistulae (DAVF) by transvenous liquid n-Butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) injection combined with coils...Objective: To evaluate the technical aspects, efficacy and safety in the treatment of cavernous dural arteriovenous fistulae (DAVF) by transvenous liquid n-Butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) injection combined with coils placement in the cavemous sinus. Methods: Eight patients with cavernous DAVF, treated by transvenous embolization with combination of detachable coils and glue between February 2006 and February 2009 in our hospital, were retrospectively analyzed, including the clinical presentations, patterns of angioarchitecture, methods of treatment and the results of follow-up. Results: In all 8 patients, 9 transvenous and 1 transarterial interventions were carried out. A single endovascular procedure was performed in 6 patients and 2 patients had to be treated twice. Of the nine transvenous approaches, eight approaches were performed via inferior petrosal sinus (IPS) and 1 via the facial vein. Complete angiographic obliteration was achieved in all patients immediately after the embolization. There was no procedure-related morbidity except for mild headache for one to seven days after the embolization. Clinical cure was achieved in all cases during the clinical follow-up periods, ranging from 8 months to 3 years. The follow-up angiography periods averaged 6.6 months with a range of 5-9 months, in which no recurrence was observed. Conclusion: In this small series, embolization with combination of glue and detachable coils by transvenous approaches was a safe, effective and economical method for the treatment of part of symptomatic patients presenting with complex cavernous DAVE展开更多
Objective To compare the different efficacy in treating patients with chronic insomnia by pricking,acupuncture and estazolam.Methods Sixty patients were divided into pricking group(group A),acupuncture group(group ...Objective To compare the different efficacy in treating patients with chronic insomnia by pricking,acupuncture and estazolam.Methods Sixty patients were divided into pricking group(group A),acupuncture group(group B) and western medicine group(group C) according to the random number table,with 20 cases in each group.In group A,hook-type needles were applied on Shenmai(申脉 BL 62) and Zhaohai(照海 Kl 6) bilaterally by piercing the skin,a small amount of mucus was squeezed and subcutaneous fibers were broken;in group B,disposable acupuncture needles were applied by needling BL 62 and Kl 6 bilaterally at the depth of 0.5 cun;in group C,patients were asked to take 1 mg estazolam once a day at bedtime.The three groups were observed for 28 days,and Epworth scores and improvement of symptoms in daytime dysfunction were recorded.Results The total effective rate of improvement of symptoms in daytime dysfunction of group A(100%,20/20) was superior to that of group B(70%,14/20),and the differences were statistically significant(P〈0.05);the total effective rates of group A and group B were superior to that of group C(25%,5/20),and the differences were statistically significant(P〈0.01,P〈0.05).In terms of Epworth scores,the efficacy of group A was significantly superior to that of group B(13.35±2.85 vs 11.10±3.88,P〈0.05),the efficacy of group A was superior to that of group C(13.35±2.85 vs 5.30±3.28,P〈0.01),and the efficacy of group B was superior to that of group C(11.10±3.88 vs 5.30±3.28,P〈0.01).Epworth scores significantly decreased in each group after treatment(P〈0.01).Conclusion The therapy of pricking BL 62 and Kl 6 for patients of chronic insomnia was effective,daytime sleepiness was relieved and daytime dysfunctions were improved,and the therapy was superior to estazolam,and more advantageous than acupuncture.展开更多
文摘Congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF) is an autosomal recessive disorder that belongs to the family of fibropolycystic liver diseases. This family includes a spectrum of disorders which are usually found in combination with each other and are usually inherited. Clinically fibropolycystic diseases have three effects being present in different proportions, those of a space occupying lesion, of portal hypertension and of cholangitis. In most patients, the first manifestations of CHF are signs and symptoms related to portal hypertension such as splenomegaly and varices. Portal hypertension in these patients has been attributed to the hypoplasia or compression of the portal vein radicles in the fibrous bands. Cavernous transformation of the portal vein (CTPV) is a relatively rare condition resulting from extrahepatic portal vein obstruction with recanalization or collateral vein formation to bypass the obstruction. It has been found that patients with CHF having an accompanying CTPV have relatively large splenomegaly and suffers more frequent episodes of bleeding from esophageal varices.We believe that CTPV is a congenital component of CHF and also one of the important causative factors of portal hypertension in these patients.
基金supported by Norwegian Council for Higher Education’s Program for Development Research and Education
文摘This study aims to find the altitudinal distribution pattern of vascular plant species reported from high mountain of Nepal(Manang) along the whole Himalayan elevation gradient, and evaluate their fate against climate change. Data was gathered from multiple sources, field investigations, literatures, and herbarium specimens. Altogether, 303 vascular plant species were reported from Manang. We used a published data to calculate distribution range of each species by interpolating between its upper and lower elevation limits. The relationship between elevation and species richness is elucidated by generalized linear model. The consequence of global warming upon Manang's vascular plant species was estimated based on projected temperature change for next century and adiabatic lapse rate along the elevation gradient of the Himalayas. The vascular plant species richness has a unimodel relationship with elevation along the whole elevation gradient of Nepal as well as in three biogeographical regions of Nepal. Vascular plants of Manang are found distributed from low land Terai to high alpine regions of Nepal and their elevation distribution range varies from 200 to 4700 m. Out of 303 vascular plants of Manang, only seven species might be affected if temperature increase by 1.5°C, whereas at least 70 species will be affected with 5°C temperature increased. However, the majority of species(233 species) have wider distribution range(> 1000 m) and more than 5°C temperature tolerance range, thus they are likely to be less affected from global warming by the end of 21 st century.
基金supported by the U.S.National Science Foundation under contract No.0207466.
文摘Measurements of seafloor asymmetry at about 360 000 pairs of conjugate points along 1250 profiles across the mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR) provide new constraints on models for the upwelling of the buoyant asthenosphere. The sign and amplitude of the asymmetry vary systematically and are functions of the distance between the spreading center and the location of the inferred location of maximum regional buoyancy (LMRB) in the asthenosphere. The LMRB is a smooth line derived from the observed asymmetry and is more centered at the regional topographic high than the spreading center. These observations are best explained by active upwelling of the underlying buoyant asthenosphere rather than by pressure-release melting.
文摘Biliary disease in the setting of non-cirrhotic portal vein thrombosis(and similarly in portal vein cavernous transformation) can become a serious problem during the evolution of disease.This is mostly due to portal biliary ductopathy.There are several mechanisms that play a role in the development of portal biliary ductopathy,such as induction of fibrosis in the biliary tract(due to direct action of dilated peribiliary collaterals and/or recurrent cholangitis),loss of biliary motility,chronic cholestasis(due to fibrosis or choledocholithiasis) and increased formation of cholelithiasis(due to various factors).The management of cholelithiasis in cases with portal vein cavernous transformation merits special attention.Because of a heterogeneous clinical presentation and concomitant pathophysiological changes that take place in biliary anatomy,diagnosis and therapy can become very complicated.Due to increased incidence and complications of cholelithiasis,standard treatment modalities like sphincterotomy or balloon sweeping of bile ducts can cause serious problems.Cholangitis,biliary strictures and hemobilia are the most common complications that occur during management of these patients.In this review,we specifically discuss important issues about bile stones related to bile duct obstruction in non-cirrhotic portal vein thrombosis and present evidence in the current literature.
基金funded by the Austrian Science Fund (FWF) [Project No. P24692]
文摘Due to their ecological disadvantages, many mountain regions have experienced land-use abandonment and shrub encroachment on former grassland at higher altitudinal zones--especially during recent decades of urbanization. But does this trend also apply to the hinterland of urban settlements? By using the Southern Colombian example of Popay^n, a medium-sized city located in the Northern Andes, we can show that the landscape changes observed between 1989 and 2010 can hardly be related to agricultural abandonment. Hypsometric variations of land-cover change indicate that, until 2001, woods or shrubland expanded faster at the lower altitudinal range adjacent to the city than at the more remote higher zones. In contrast, after 2001 grassland areas increased on former woods or shrnbland at all altitudinal belts. Both periods thus present developments that can be interpreted as the result of land-use expansion below 2000 m asl and land-use persistence in the tierrafrla of the mountain city's hinterland.
文摘Background Thalassemic patients demonstrate an increased rate of extracardiae vascular complications and increased carotid wall intima-media thickness (cIMT), but very low prevalence of coronary artery disease (CAD). We investigated the atheroma burden by assessing the coronary artery calcium (CAC) and elMT in these patients. Methods We examined 37 patients with β-thalassemia and 150 healthy control volunteers with multi-detector computer tomography (CT) and ultrasonography to determine CAC score and cIMT, respectively. Results Propensity score matching (C-statistic: 0.88; 95% CI: 0.83-0.93) resulted in 27 pairs of patients; severe CAC was observed in 2 (7.4%) and 0 of β-thalassemia patients and healthy volunteers respectively (P = 0.5). Median calcium score was 0 (0-0) in β-thalassemia patients and 0 (0-4) in healthy volunteers (P = 0.8). Median intima-media thickness was higher in β-thalassemia patients compared to control group [0.45 (0.06-0.65) vs. 0.062 (0.054-0.086); P = 0.04]. Conclusions Patients with β-thalassemia in comparison with healthy control subjects exhibit similar CAC score and increased cIMT. Our findings indicate a disparate rate of progression of atherosclerosis between coronary and extracardiac arteries in these patients lending support to the epidemiological evidence.
文摘This study examined the nitrogen cycling associated with agricultural production and environmental load in central Hokkaido. The nitrogen (N) budget analysis model offers a new set of tools for evaluating N cycling in agro-ecosystems. The cycling index (CI) is a useful tool for estimating optimal N flows in farmlands. The fertilization index (FI) is a useful indicator for characterizing the N flows related to farms. Using these parameters, we analyzed all farm systems to estimate the optimal N cycling for minimizing N pollution in groundwater and maximizing agricultural production in mountain regions of Japan. The results showed that the critical N application rate (chemical fertilizer + manure) was 143.3 kg N ha-1 y-1. The critical inter-system input (chemical fertilizer N, imported food and feed N, and natural supplied N) was 169.2 kg N ha-1 y-1.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China,No. 30973440 and No. 30770950key project of Chongqing Natural Science Foundation (CSTC,2008BA0021)
文摘AIM:To investigate the role of 64-slice computed tomography(CT) in portal vein cavernous transformation to determine surgical strategy.METHODS:The site of lesions and extent of collateral circulation in 12 pediatric cases of cavernous transformation of the portal vein with surgical treatment were analyzed.RESULTS:Eleven of 12 children had esophageal varices and were treated with lower esophageal and gastric devascularization and splenectomy,and the other case was only treated with splenectomy.There were eight cases with spontaneous spleen/stomach-renal shunt,four with Retzius vein opening,which was reserved during surgery.Three cases of lesions involving the intrahepatic portal vein(PV) were treated with living donor liver transplantation.One patient died from PV thrombosis after liver transplantation,and the rest had no significant complications.CONCLUSION:The PV,its branches and collateral circulation were clearly seen by 64-slice spiral CT angiography,which helped with preoperative surgical planning.
文摘The aim of the study is to monitor and assess landslide hazards by remote sensing data processing and GIS (Geographic Information Service) spatial analysis. Idukki district, the western Ghats of India was chosen as test area, because of frequent destructive mass wasting processes. Western Ghats is a prominent orographic feature that runs parallel to the south west coast of India. Predicting landslide hazard on a regional scale, namely the assessment of actual and potential mass movement over large area is carried out using Remote Sensing and GIS. A numerical weightage to the causative factors of slope instability such as slope, relative relief, aspect, curvature, drainage density, drainage frequency, land use, road buffer and drainage buffer are assigned as per earlier workers for the purpose of landslide susceptibility zonation. A high degree of match is found between observed and predicted landslide hazard by the procedure employed in the study.
文摘AIM:To assess the effectiveness of and complications associated with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and gelatin sponge particles embolization of splenic artery pseudoaneurysm complicating chronic alcoholic pancreatitis. METHODS: A 42-year-old man with splenic artery pseudoaneurysm formation secondary to chronic alcoholic pancreatitis was admitted. We used PVA and gelatin sponge particles embolization of splenic artery pseudoaneurysm by super-selective embolization techniques. RESULTS: The splenic artery pseudoaneurysm was successfully controlled with splenic embolization. The patient was discharged in 9 d with complete recovery. CONCLUSION: This case confirms that superselective transcatheter embolization by PVA and gelatin sponge particles may represent an effective treatment for pseudoaneurysm caused by chronic alcoholic pancreatitis in the absence of other therapeutic alternatives.
文摘Several studies have indicated that fucoidan fractions with low molecular weight and different sulfate content from Laminaria japonica could inhibit the activation of platelets directly by reducing the platelet aggregation. To explore the direct effect of LMW fucoidan on the platelet system furthermore and examine the possible mechanism, the endothelial protection and inhibits platelet activation effects of two LMW fucoidan were investigated. In the present study, Endothelial injury model of rats was made by injection of adrenaline(0.4 mg kg-1) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells were cultured. v WF level was be investigated in vivo and in vitro as an important index of endothelial injury. LMW fucoidan could significantly reduce v WF level in vascular endothelial injury rats and also significantly reduce v WF level in vitro. The number of EMPs was be detected as another important index of endothelial injury. The results showed that LMW fucoidan reduced EMPs stimulated by tumor necrosis factor. In this study, it was found that by inhibiting platelet adhesion, LMW fucoidan played a role in anti-thrombosis and the specific mechanism of action is to inhibit the flow of extracellular Ca2+. All in a word, LMW fucoidan could inhibit the activation of platelets indirectly by reducing the concentration of EMPs and v WF, at the same time; LMW fucoidan inhibited the activation of platelets directly by inhibiting the flow of extracellular Ca2+.
文摘Objective:To evaluate the safety and efficiency of transvenous embolization of dural arteriovenous fistula of cavernous region by multiple venous routes. Methods: Twenty seven patients with dural arteriovenous fistula of cavernous region were treated by transvenous embolization with micro-coils. The transvenous routes included inferior petrosal sinus, superior ophthalmic vein and facial vein. Results: Clinical cure was achieved in 23 cases and significant improvement of symptoms in 4 cases. Complete anglographic obliteration was documented in 22 patients (82%). Residual shunting were left in 2 patients via pterygoid drainage and 1 case via inter-cavernous sinus, 2 cases via inferior petrosal sinus, disappeared one month later by manual compression carotid artery. Headache and vomiting were the most common symptoms after embolization. Three patients had diplopia and relieved within two months after embolization. There was no permanent procedure-related morbidity. The clinic follow up ranged from 5 months to 6 years, and there was not recurrence case. Conclusion: Transvenous embolization via different venous routes is a safe and efficient method for dural arteriovenous fistula of cavernous region treatment.
基金"973"National Key Basic Research and Development Program(No.2012CB518202)Project of Qinghai Development of Science and Technology(No.2011-N-150)
文摘To evaluate the therapeutic effects of Rong Shuan Jiao Nang (RSJN) on treatment of acute mountain sickness (AMS) and high altitude myocardial ischemic syndrome in workers in Yushu, three groups were studied: group A (60 patients with AMS, given RSJN), group B (15 patients with altitude myocardial ischemic syndrome, given RSJN), and group C (control, without drugs). All studied subjects were lowland workers who were first time entry to Yushu for work at an altitude of 4 250 m. During the course of treatment, a routing physical examina- tion was performed, AMS Lake Louise Scores were estimated, arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2), electrocardiography and hemoglobin concentration were measured before and after using RSJN for 10 days. In group A, the effective rate was 68 %, symptomatic improvement in 54 cases (90 %) within 5 days. In group B, the effective rate was 93 %, episodes of angina pectoris stopped in 12 patients within 3 - 7 days, one lasted 8 days. After treatment, the level of SaO2 increased 15.5 %, 21.8 % and 5.6 % in group A, group B and group C, respectively. RSJN tak- en at the start of the arrival at Yushu can decrease AMS scores and facilitate cure. If taken after the illness has begun, RSJN may help lessen symptoms, especially effectively improved angina pectoris of the high altitude myocardial ischemic syndrome. Symptoms usually subside after 3 - 8 days. RSJN should be continually used lbr at least 7 days after ascent.
文摘Over the last decades, the usage of PAM (pulse amplitude modulated) fluorometers for assessment of chlorophyll-a fluorescence variations became widely applied on marine macroalgae physiology and ecophysiology researches. Due to the increased use of these methods, a large number of studies, mainly relating to macroalgae ecology and physiology were worldwide reported. In this context, it was also created a mismatch of concepts about fluorescence of the chlorophyll-a and its application. Under this background, this study compile and summarize the state of the art knowledge regarding to the chlorophyll fluorescence, contextualizing the use of the PAM method with the main factors regulating photosynthesis (light, temperature, salinity nitrogen and phosphorus) in marine macroalgae. Moreover, this study also references the most used terms and shows some examples found in literature about the applicability of fluorescence parameters. The herein findings and the discussed examples, helps to emphasize the importance of fluorescence usage, that highlights the understanding of photosynthetic responses in macroalgal physiology and ecology.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.41376166)the Ocean Public Welfare Scientific Research Project(Nos.201005024,201405040)+1 种基金the Jiangsu Science and Technology Project(No.BE2012687)the Special Fund for Cooperation between Jilin Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences(No.2013SYHZ0023)
文摘A rapid, sensitive and reproducible high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method with post-column fluorescence derivatization has been developed to determine the amount of low-molecular- weight sulfated polysaccharide (GFS) in vivo. The metabolism of GFS has been shown to fit a two component model following its administration by intravenous injection, and its pharmacokinetic parameters were determined to be as follows: half-time of distribution phase (t1/2α)=11.2±2.93 min, half-time of elimination phase (tl/2α)=98.20±25.78 min, maximum concentration (Cmax)=110.53 gg/mL and peak time (Tmax)=5 min. The pharmacokinetic behavior of GFS was also investigated following intragastric administration. However, the concentration of GFS found in serum was too low for detection, and GFS could only be detected for up to 2 h after intragastric administration (200 mg/kg body weight). Thus, the bioavailability of GFS was low following intragastric administration because of the metabolism of GFS. In conclusion, HPLC with post-column derivatization could be used for quantitative microanalysis and pharmacokinetic studies to determine the presence of polysaccharides in the serum following intravenous injection.
文摘Objective: To evaluate the technical aspects, efficacy and safety in the treatment of cavernous dural arteriovenous fistulae (DAVF) by transvenous liquid n-Butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) injection combined with coils placement in the cavemous sinus. Methods: Eight patients with cavernous DAVF, treated by transvenous embolization with combination of detachable coils and glue between February 2006 and February 2009 in our hospital, were retrospectively analyzed, including the clinical presentations, patterns of angioarchitecture, methods of treatment and the results of follow-up. Results: In all 8 patients, 9 transvenous and 1 transarterial interventions were carried out. A single endovascular procedure was performed in 6 patients and 2 patients had to be treated twice. Of the nine transvenous approaches, eight approaches were performed via inferior petrosal sinus (IPS) and 1 via the facial vein. Complete angiographic obliteration was achieved in all patients immediately after the embolization. There was no procedure-related morbidity except for mild headache for one to seven days after the embolization. Clinical cure was achieved in all cases during the clinical follow-up periods, ranging from 8 months to 3 years. The follow-up angiography periods averaged 6.6 months with a range of 5-9 months, in which no recurrence was observed. Conclusion: In this small series, embolization with combination of glue and detachable coils by transvenous approaches was a safe, effective and economical method for the treatment of part of symptomatic patients presenting with complex cavernous DAVE
基金Supported by Research Fund for Young Teachers from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine
文摘Objective To compare the different efficacy in treating patients with chronic insomnia by pricking,acupuncture and estazolam.Methods Sixty patients were divided into pricking group(group A),acupuncture group(group B) and western medicine group(group C) according to the random number table,with 20 cases in each group.In group A,hook-type needles were applied on Shenmai(申脉 BL 62) and Zhaohai(照海 Kl 6) bilaterally by piercing the skin,a small amount of mucus was squeezed and subcutaneous fibers were broken;in group B,disposable acupuncture needles were applied by needling BL 62 and Kl 6 bilaterally at the depth of 0.5 cun;in group C,patients were asked to take 1 mg estazolam once a day at bedtime.The three groups were observed for 28 days,and Epworth scores and improvement of symptoms in daytime dysfunction were recorded.Results The total effective rate of improvement of symptoms in daytime dysfunction of group A(100%,20/20) was superior to that of group B(70%,14/20),and the differences were statistically significant(P〈0.05);the total effective rates of group A and group B were superior to that of group C(25%,5/20),and the differences were statistically significant(P〈0.01,P〈0.05).In terms of Epworth scores,the efficacy of group A was significantly superior to that of group B(13.35±2.85 vs 11.10±3.88,P〈0.05),the efficacy of group A was superior to that of group C(13.35±2.85 vs 5.30±3.28,P〈0.01),and the efficacy of group B was superior to that of group C(11.10±3.88 vs 5.30±3.28,P〈0.01).Epworth scores significantly decreased in each group after treatment(P〈0.01).Conclusion The therapy of pricking BL 62 and Kl 6 for patients of chronic insomnia was effective,daytime sleepiness was relieved and daytime dysfunctions were improved,and the therapy was superior to estazolam,and more advantageous than acupuncture.