An intersection network based on combining SNP coassociation and RNA coexpression networks for feed utilization traits in Japanese Black cattle.

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of quantitative traits have detected numerous genetic associations, but they encounter difficulties in pinpointing prominent candidate genes and inferring gene networks. The present study used a systems genetics approach integrating GWAS results with external RNA-expression data to detect candidate gene networks in feed utilization and growth traits of Japanese Black cattle, which are matters of concern. A SNP coassociation network was derived from significant correlations between SNPs with effects estimated by GWAS across 7 phenotypic traits.

A case of placental polyp treated with an intraoperative injection of prostaglandin F followed by hysteroscopic resection.

A 27-year-old woman had massive genital bleeding after an artificial abortion. Color Doppler ultrasonography showed a hypervascular mass. Hysteroscopy revealed a placental polyp.

Differences in insulin sensitivity in pregnant women with overweight and gestational diabetes mellitus.

Aim: The purpose of the present study was to investigate changes in insulin sensitivity using homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) and the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) in normal-weight and overweight women with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) during pregnancy.

Methods: Ninety-two pregnant women in the first trimester, 202 in the second trimester and 154 in the third trimester were enrolled in this study. Fasting plasma glucose and insulin concentrations were measured in all women in the first, second and third trimesters.

Effect of betaxolol on aspartate aminotransferase activity in hypoxic rat retina in vitro.

We investigated the effect of betaxolol on the decrease of mitochondrial aspartate aminotransferase (mAAT) activity in rat retinas induced by hypoxia in vitro. It is reported that mAAT decreases in ischemic or hypoxic retina and that the decrease is caused by Ca(2+)-dependent proteases such as calpain. Betaxolol is a compound that has beta(1)-adrenergic receptor blocking and voltage-dependent calcium channel blocking properties.

Production of human mast cell chymase in human myometrium and placenta in cases of normal pregnancy and preeclampsia.

Objective: To investigate whether the human mast cell chymase-endothelin-1(1-31) system was present in human myometrium, chorion and umbilical cord in normal pregnancy.

Methods: Myometrium, placenta and umbilical cord were obtained from five normal pregnant women and 10 with preeclampsia. Each tissue was stained with antibodies against hMC and ET-1(1-31).