bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water and sodium restriction on cardiovascular disease in young chronic hemodialysis patients
Authors: LIANG Xue , WANG Wei , LI Han
Published: January 2024

Background

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is an independent predictor of morbidity and mortality in chronic hemodialysis (CHD) patients. It remains unclear whether efforts to correct fluid overload in young CHD can reverse LVH. This prospective single-center cohort study evaluated left ventricular masses index (LVMI) evolution in fluid overloaded young CHD patients with or without water-sodium control.

Methods

A total of 106 young patients aged between 22 and 44 years on CHD were enrolled in this prospective, control study. Patients were divided into three groups according to the percentage of interdialytic weight gain (PIDWG (%) = 100% × (predialysis weight - dry weight)/dry weight) at baseline. Thirty-six patients with PIDWG more than 5% received health education to restrict water-sodium intake strictly (Group I). Other 36 patients with comparable fluid status levels (the PIDWG more than 5%) did not receive health education to restrict water-sodium intake strictly (Group II) and those with PIDWG less than 5% (Group III, n=34) were served as controls. Echocardiographic studies were performed to evaluate LVMI at baseline and then after 1, 3 and 6 months. The total follow-up time was 6 months.

Results

There was no significant difference in clinical data (such as age, gender, aetiology of renal failure and nutritional state, etc.) among the three groups at baseline. At baseline, the prevalence of LVH in Group I, II and III was 75.0%, 72.2% and 55.9%, respectively. LVMI was directly correlated with PIDWG (r = 0.779, P <0.01). After 6 months, the PIDWG in Group I decreased in mean by (3.77±1.09)%, and LVMI decreased in mean by (27.59±12.15) g/m2. The prevalence of LVH decreased in mean by 25.0%, and the blood pressure decreased in mean by (14.69±11.50) mmHg/(7.14±7.51) mmHg. The medication category and total medication frequency of hypotensive drugs significantly decreased in Group I at 6 months. However the urine volume and the levels of serum creatinine and serum albumin in Group I were not significantly different compared to the baseline. The level of LVMI in Group II was significantly increased after 6 months compared with the baseline. After 6 months, the level of LVMI in Group III were not significantly different compared with the baseline.

Conclusions

A high prevalence of LVH was present in young CHD patients, and was associated with fluid overload. Reduction fuild overload with water-sodium control can reverse LVH in young CHD patients.
Etiological features of cirrhosis inpatients in Beijing, China
Authors: SONG Guang-jun , FENG Bo , RAO Hui-ying , WEI Lai
Published: January 2024

Background

The etiological spectrum of cirrhosis has changed over the years, but our knowledge of it is limited. The present study aimed to investigate the etiological features of cirrhosis inpatients and their variation in the past 18 years in Beijing.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on all patients with cirrhosis diagnosed for the first time in Peking University People's Hospital from January 1, 1993, to October 25, 2010. Data were analyzed using SPSS 20.0.

Results

A total of 2119 cirrhosis inpatients were included in this study: 1412 (66.6%) male and 707 (33.4%) female. Chronic hepatitis B accounted for 58.7%; chronic hepatitis C for 7.6%; chronic hepatitis B and hepatitis C virus co-infection for 0.8% (16 cases); alcoholic liver disease for 9.4% (200 cases); and autoimmune diseases for 9.4% (199 cases). In the past 18 years, the percentage of chronic hepatitis B has decreased from 75.2% to 48.7%; alcoholic liver disease has increased from 5.1% to 10.6%; and autoimmune disease has increased from 2.2% to 12.9%. The percentages of chronic hepatitis B and alcoholic liver disease were higher among men, whereas the percentages of chronic hepatitis C, autoimmune diseases and cryptogenic cirrhosis were higher among women.

Conclusions

Chronic hepatitis B was still the most common etiology of cirrhosis in China, but the percentage has been decreasing. The percentages of alcoholic liver disease and autoimmune diseases have been increasing. The etiological spectrum of cirrhosis inpatients differed significantly according to sex.
Surgical management of intrahepatic vessels in children with stage III/IV hepatoblastoma
Authors: PANG Yan-li , ZHAO Wei , YANG He-ying , LIU Qiu-liang , ZHANG Da , QIN Pan , YUE Ming , WANG Lei , ZHANG Jun-jie , WANG Jia-xiang
Published: January 2024

Background

Hepatoblastoma (HB) is a rare childhood tumor. We investigated the effect of intraoperative management of the intrahepatic major vessels in children with HB.

Methods

Between April 2005 and August 2012, surgical resection was performed on 50 children with hepatoblastoma. These children were divided into a vessel-ligation group (n=20) and a vessel-repair group (n=30). In the vessel-ligation group, the intrahepatic major vessels were ligated and removed together with the tumor and the affected liver lobe/liver parenchyma. In the vessel-repair group, the affected intrahepatic major vessels were dissected and preserved as much as possible and the normal liver lobe/liver parenchyma and blood supply from these vessels were also preserved. The outcomes were analyzed by postoperative follow-up.

Results

In the vessel-ligation group, two patients gave up surgery, six patients underwent palliative resection, and 12 patients underwent en bloc resection; four patients died of liver failure and eight patients fully recovered and were discharged. In the vessel-repair group, all 30 patients underwent en bloc resection and were discharged after satisfactory healing. After a follow-up time of 5-36 months (median: 20 months), two patient in the vessel-ligation group survived and 22 patients in the vessel-repair group survived.

Conclusions

Patients with HB can be successfully treated by tumor resection with vascular repair. This method prevents postoperative liver failure, ensures patient safety during the perioperative period, and allows for early chemotherapy.
Effect of oleic acid-induced acute lung injury and conventional mechanical ventilation on renal function in piglets
Authors: LIU Ai-jun , LING Feng , LI Zhi-qiang , LI Xiao-feng , LIU Ying-long , DU Jie , HAN Ling
Published: January 2024

Background

Animal models that demonstrate changes of renal function in response to acute lung injury (ALI) and mechanical ventilation (MV) are few. The present study was performed to examine the effect of ALI induced by oleic acid (OA) in combination with conventional MV strategy on renal function in piglets.

Methods

Twelve Chinese mini-piglets were randomly divided into two groups: the OA group (n=6), animals were ventilated with a conventional MV strategy of 12 ml/kg and suffered an ALI induced by administration of OA, and the control group (n=6), animals were ventilated with a protective MV strategy of 6 ml/kg and received the same amount of sterile saline.

Results

Six hours after OA injection a severe lung injury and a mild-moderate degree of renal histopathological injury were seen, while no apparent histological abnormalities were observed in the control group. Although we observed an increase in the plasma concentrations of creatinine and urea after ALI, there was no significant difference compared with the control group. Plasma concentrations of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and cystatin C increased (5.6±1.3) and (7.4±1.5) times in the OA group compared to baseline values, and were significantly higher than the values in the control group. OA injection in combination with conventional MV strategy resulted in a dramatic aggravation of hemodynamic and blood gas exchange parameters, while these parameters remained stable during the experiment in the control group. The plasma expression of TNF-α and IL-6 in the OA group were significantly higher than that in the control group. Compared with high expression in the lung and renal tissue in the OA group, TNF-α and IL-6 were too low to be detected in the lung and renal tissue in the control group.

Conclusions

OA injection in combination with conventional MV strategy not only resulted in a severe lung injury but also an apparent renal injury. The potential mechanisms involved a cytokine response of TNF-α and IL-6 in plasma, lung and renal tissues.
Association between the interleukin-13 gene and development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in southern Chinese Han population: a case-control study
Authors: GONG Yi , SHI Guo-chao , WAN Huan-ying , YANG Kun , PAN Chun-ming , CHENG Qi-jian , DAI Ran-ran , LI Qing-yun , LI Min , ZHOU Min , GUO Yi
Published: January 2024

Background

Interleukin-13 (IL-13) has been implicated to be responsible for recruitment of inflammatory cells from the blood to the lung, regulation of matrix metalloproteinase and induction of mucin production and secretion in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We determined plasma IL-13 levels in patients with COPD and investigated its association with common polymorphisms of IL-13 gene in a case-control study.

Methods

We genotyped 160 cases and 175 control subjects in a local hospital using Mass-ArrayTM Technology Platform then tested the association of four SNPs in IL-13 (rs1295685, rs1800925, rs1881457, rs20541) with COPD, and then determined plasma IL-13 levels in patients with COPD and controls.

Results

Association was found between IL-13 gene SNPs (rs20541 and rs1800925) and an increased risk of COPD. By linkage disequilibrium (LD) analysis, two blocks (rs1881457 and rs1800925; rs20541 and rs1295685) were found. The risk of COPD was found associated with the IL-13 gene polymorphism among southern Chinese Han population. Plasma IL-13 level was increased in COPD patients compared with controls.

Conclusions

The polymorphism of the IL-13 gene is associated with an increased risk of COPD in southern Chinese Han population. Plasma IL-13 levels were found elevated in patients with COPD.
Assessment effect of central venous pressure in fluid resuscitation in the patients with shock: a multi-center retrospective research
Authors: Hu Bo , Xiang Hui , Liang Hui , Yu Li , Xu Tao , Yang Jun-hui , Du Zhao-hui , Li Jian-guo
Published: January 2024

Background

Central venous pressure (CVP) and intrathoracic blood volume index (ITBVI) were used to assess the fluid status. It has previously been shown that CVP is not as accurate as ITBVI for all the shock patients. We therefore hypothesized that the change of CVP has the ability to predict fluid responsiveness in some clinical cases of shock.

Methods

From September 1st 2009 to September 1st 2011, sixty-three patients with shock from different Intensive Care Unit (ICU) were collected into this retrospective study. All the patients received fluid challenge strategy (infusing 300 ml hydroxyethyl starch in 20 minutes), were monitored with CVP and pulse-indicated continuous cardiac output (PICCO). The correlation between changes in cardiac index (ΔCI), CVP (ΔCVP) and ITBVI (ΔITBVI) were analyzed. Fluid responsiveness was defined as an increase in CI ≥10%. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated for ΔCVP and ΔITBVI.

Results

For all the patients, there was no correlation between ΔCI and ΔCVP (P=0.073), but in the subgroup analysis, the correlation between ΔCI and ΔCVP was significant in those younger than 60 years old (P=0.018) and those with hypovolemic shock (P=0.001). The difference of areas under the ROC curves of ΔCVP and ΔITBVI were not statistically significant in the group younger than 60 years old or hypovolemic shock group (P >0.05, respectively). However, no similar results can be found in the group older than 60 years old and the other two shock type groups from ROC curves of ΔCVP and ΔITBVI.

Conclusions

ΔCVP is not suitable for evaluating the volume status of the shock patients with fluid resuscitation regardless of their condition. However, in some ways, ΔCVP have the ability to predict fluid responsiveness in the younger shock patients or in the hypovolemic shock patients.
Influence of dental restorative material properties on bond interface reliability: a finite element analysis
Authors: ZHAO Yan-tao , ZHANG Yu-mei , HOU Shu-xun , KONG Liang , LIN Jun , ZHAO Yi-min , HUO Na
Published: January 2024

Background

Varieties of restorative materials are widely used in dentistry. The aim of this study is to explore the influence of different dental restorative materials on bond interface reliability.

Methods

A two-dimensional finite element analysis method was adopted to simulate the shear-bond efficacy test. The influence of elastic modulus and Poisson's ratio were investigated separately. Several dental restorative materials including resins, metals, and ceramics were analyzed in this study.

Results

The deformation and peak equivalent stress level of the dentin-adhesive interface rose sharply following a decrease in the elasticity of restorative materials, especially those with a low elastic modulus range. The influence of the Poisson's coefficient was not significant. Ceramics and gold alloy were preferred to resin composite in restorations bearing extensive shear load during service.

Conclusions

Restorative materials with an elastic modulus similar to that of teeth are not always the best clinical choice. This research provides a helpful guide for the application of different restorative materials in clinical practice.
Relationship between symptoms and weight-bearing radiographic parameters of idiopathic flexible flatfoot in children
Authors: YAN Gui-sen , YANG Zheng , LU Ming , ZHANG Jian-li , ZHU Zheng-hua , GUO Yuan
Published: January 2024

Background

Idiopathic flexible flatfoot in children most frequently improves with age and remains asymptomatic. It is a physiological variation of the normality that does not require treatment unless it becomes symptomatic. The aim of this research was to investigate the reason why some individuals with flexible flatfoot become symptomatic by analysis of the differences in the relative alignment of each segment of the foot between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients with idiopathic flexible flatfoot using radiographic measurements.

Methods

One hundred patients with idiopathic flexible flatfoot were retrospectively identified and divided into two groups: asymptomatic (n=50) and symptomatic (n=50). Standing anteroposterior and lateral radiographs of the foot were analyzed. Five measurements were calculated to describe the alignment of the foot. An independent-samples t-test and Logistic regression test were used for statistical analysis.

Results

Age and sex were similar in the two groups. The independent-samples test revealed significant differences in two parameters: the anteroposterior talonavicular coverage angle and the lateral talo-first metatarsal angle. When the Logistic regression test was performed, only the talonavicular coverage angle showed statistical significance.

Conclusions

The lateral displacement of the navicular bone, measured by the anteroposterior talonavicular coverage angle, seems to be related to the onset of symptoms. In individuals with otherwise normal flexible flatfoot, an increase in this angle might be an important risk factor for developing symptoms.
No association between cytochrome P450 2D6 gene polymorphism and risk of acute leukemia: evidence based on a meta-analysis
Authors: Ruan Xiao-lan , Li Sheng , Zeng Xian-tao , Xia Ling-hui , Hu Yu
Published: January 2024

Background

Many studies indicated the human cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) gene polymorphism was associated with acute leukemia (AL) susceptibility, however, the results were inconsistent. So we performed this meta-analysis to evaluate the relationship between CYP2D6*3 or CYP2D6*4 polymorphism and AL susceptibility.

Methods

We searched PubMed database up to February 20, 2013, and finally yielded 9 case-control studies including 1343 cases and 1843 controls which tested the association between CYP2D6*3 or *4 polymorphism and AL. After data extraction, we conducted a meta-analysis using the Comprehensive Meta Analysis software.

Results

Overall, no significant association between CYP2D6*3 or *4 polymorphism and AL risk was found in this meta-analysis (+ vs. -: OR=1.13, 95% CI=0.79-1.63; +/+ vs. -/-: OR=1.73, 95% CI=0.99-3.02; -/+ vs. -/-: OR=1.03, 95% CI=0.68-1.56; (-/+ and +/+) vs. -/-: OR=1.08, 95% CI=0.72-1.63; +/+ vs. (-/+ and -/-): OR=1.76, 95% CI=0.98-3.17). Similar results were also been found in stratified subgroup analysis. There was no publication bias.

Conclusion

CYP2D6*3 or *4 polymorphism might not be associated with AL susceptibility. However, the results need to be further confirmed by well-designed and high quality randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes.
Interleukin-18 promoter gene -607C/A polymorphism and tuberculosis risk: a meta-analysis
Authors: LI Dian-dian , JIA Liu-qun , GUO Shu-jin , SHEN Yong-chun , WEN Fu-qiang
Published: January 2024

Background

Numerous studies have evaluated the association between interleukin-18 (IL-18) promoter gene -607C/A (rs1946518) polymorphism and tuberculosis (TB) risk. However, the results remain apparently conflicting. The aim of this study was to investigate whether IL-18-607C/A polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to TB.

Methods

Publications addressing the association between the IL-18-607C/A polymorphism and TB risk were selected from the Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Embase, CNKI and Wanfang databases. Data were extracted from the studies by two independent reviewers. Statistical analysis was performed using RevMan 5.0.25 and STATA 11.0 software.

Results

Eight case-control studies with a total of 1166 TB patients and 1734 controls were retrieved. Meta-analysis results showed significant association between IL-18-607C/A polymorphism and TB risk in all comparisons of the A allele versus C allele (OR=1.17, 95% CI 1.05-1.30, P=0.004), AA versus CC (OR=1.43, 95% CI 1.14-1.81, P=0.002), CA+AA versus CC (OR=1.20, 95% CI 1.01-1.42, P=0.04) and AA versus CA+CC (OR=1.30, 95% CI 1.07-1.58, P=0.007). In subgroup analysis by nationality, a significant association between IL-18-607C/A polymorphism and TB risk in the comparisons of A versus C, CA+AA versus CC and AA versus CA+CC (OR=1.22, 95% CI 1.07-1.38, P=0.002; OR=1.31, 95% CI 1.06-1.61, P=0.01; OR=1.32, 95% CI 1.07-1.63, P=0.01, respectively) were found in Chinese population but not in Indian and Iranian populations.

Conclusion

This study suggests that the -607C/A polymorphism of IL-18 gene would be a risk factor for TB, especially in Chinese population. To further evaluate gene-to-gene and gene-to-environment interactions on -607C/A polymorphism and tuberculosis risk, more studies with thousands of patients are required.
Suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 protects rat pancreatic islets from cytokine-induced apoptosis through Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription pathway
Authors: SUN Qi , XIANG Ruo-lan , YANG Yan-li , FENG Kai , ZHANG Kui , DING Wen-yi
Published: January 2024

Background

Suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) proteins are inhibitors of cytokine signaling pathway involved in negative feedback loops. Although SOCS1 is an important intracellular suppressor of apoptosis in a variety of cell types, its role in cytokine-induced pancreatic β-cell apoptosis remains unclear. The present study investigated potential effects of SOCS1 on the cytokine-induced pancreatic β-cell apoptosis.

Methods

After successfully transfected with SOCS1/pEGFP-C1 or pEGFP-C1 plasmids to overexpress SOCS1, RINm5F (rat insulinoma cell line) cells were exposed to cytokines, interferon (IFN)-γ alone, IFN-γ+interleukin (IL)-1β, IFN-γ+IL-1β+ tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α respectively. Pancreatic β-cell apoptosis was assessed by using MTT, FACS, and caspase-3 activity assays. Protein phosphorylation of Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) and signal transducers and activators of transcription 1 (STAT1) were verified by Western blotting and mRNA expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), NF-κB and Fas were analyzed by RT-PCR.

Results

Overexpression of SOCS1 in RINm5F cells was shown to attenuate IFN-γ alone, IFN-γ+IL-1β and IFN-γ+TNF-α+IL-1β mediated apoptosis. Phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT1 significantly decreased in RINm5F cells which overexpressed SOCS1 protein. Overexpression of SOCS1 significantly suppressed cytokine-induced iNOS mRNA levels.

Conclusion

Overexpression of SOCS1 protects pancreatic islets from cytokine-induced cell apoptosis via the JAK2/STAT1 pathway.
Relationship among symptoms, mucosal injury, and acid exposure in gastroesophageal reflux disease
Authors: XU Ding-ting , FENG Gui-jian , ZHAO Li-li , LIU Yu-lan
Published: January 2024

Background

Symptoms, endoscopy, and pH monitoring form the basis of diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Their relationship was meaningful for primary care physicians, but still unclear. Our research aimed to compare questionnaire, endoscopy, and pH monitoring and to analyze their correlations.

Methods

Three hundred patients who underwent the Reflux Disease Questionnaire (RDQ), endoscopy, and esophageal 24-hour pH monitoring from March 2007 to December 2010 in Peking University People's Hospital were enrolled. We analyzed the characteristics of different investigations and their relationships.

Results

Male (OR for mild reflux esophagitis (RE) = 2.433, severe RE = 8.386), body mass index (BMI) (OR for mild RE = 1.222, severe RE = 1.297), and hernia (OR for mild RE = 6.059, severe RE = 17.547), were found to be the risk factors for RE; age (OR=1.074) was correlated with severe RE. The consistency of questionnaire, endoscopy, and pH monitoring was poor: RDQ did not agree well with pH monitoring (κ=0.061), nor with endoscopy (κ=0.044); pH monitoring did not agree well with endoscopy (κ=0.316). However, the severity of mucosa injury in RE was associated with pathological acid exposure (PAE): reflux episodes of >5 minutes (P=0.035), the percentage time pH <4 (P=0.017), and the DeMeester score (P=0.016) increased significantly in patients with severe RE. Chest pain had poor relationship with RE or PAE.

Conclusions

Male, age, BMI, and hernia were probably risk factors for esophagitis. RDQ, endoscopy, and pH monitoring have their own focus and reinforce each other in diagnosis. Of the GERD symptoms, chest pain had negative correlation with RE or PAE.
Features of a Chinese family with cerebral cavernous malformation induced by a novel CCM1 gene mutation
Authors: WANG Xue , LIU Xue-wu , Lee Nora , LIU Qi-ji , LI Wen-na , HAN Tao , WEI Kun-kun , QIAO Shan , CHI Zhao-fu
Published: January 2024

Background

Familial cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs), characterized by hemorrhagic stroke, recurrent headache and epilepsy, are congenital vascular anomalies of the central nervous system. Familial CCMs is an autosomal dominant inherited disorder and three CCM genes have been identified. We report a Chinese family with CCMs and intend to explore clinical, pathological, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features and pathogenic gene mutation of this family.

Methods

Totally 25 family members underwent brain MRI examination and clinical check. Two patients with surgical indications had surgical treatment and the specimens were subjected to histopathological and microstructural examination. In addition, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and direct sequencing were performed with genomic DNA extracted from 25 family members' blood samples for mutation detection.

Results

Brain MRI identified abnormal results in seven family members. All of them had multiple intracranial lesions and four cases had skin cavernous hemangioma. T2-weighted sequence showed that the lesions were typically characterized by an area of mixed signal intensity. Gradient-echo (GRE) sequence was more sensitive to find microcavernous hemangiomas. There was a wide range in the clinical manifestations as well as the age of onset in the family. The youngest patient was an 8-year-old boy with least intracranial lesions. Histopathological and microstructural examination showed that CCMs were typically discrete multi-sublobes of berry-like lesions, with hemorrhage in various stages of illness evolution. They were formed by abnormally enlarged sinusoids and the thin basement membranes. A novel T deletion mutation in exon 14 of CCM1 gene was identified by mutation detection in the seven patients. But unaffected members and healthy controls did not carry this mutation.

Conclusions

The clinical manifestations were heterogenic within this family. We identified a novel mutation (c.1396delT) was the disease-causing mutation for this family and extended the mutational spectrum of CCMs.
Effect of occlusal splints for the management of patients with myofascial pain: a randomized, controlled, double-blind study
Authors: ZHANG Fei-yu , WANG Xiao-geng , DONG Jian , ZHANG Jie-fu , LÜ Ya-lin
Published: January 2024

Background

Occlusal splints have been the preferred modalities in the management of myofascial temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), but now controversy exists in reporting whether they are successful for TMDs treatments. The aim of this study was to give objective evidence to the assessment of treatment effect of occlusal splints for myofascial TMDs patients by clinical assessments and surface electromyography (sEMG) measurements of masseter muscles (MM).

Methods

Thirty-six patients (12 males and 24 females) aged 16-57 (38±11) years participated in the study. All participants diagnosed with myofascial TMD were randomized into two groups (18 of each). Patients in the first group (A) were treated with occlusal splints for 1 month, while patients in the second group (B) were treated with placebo (non-occluding palatal) splints. Clinical assessments were performed at the beginning of the study and 1 month after treatment. sEMG measurements for MM were performed at mandibular postural position (MPP) and maximum intercuspal contacted position (ICP) 1 month after the treatment. The root mean square (RMS) and the median frequency (MF) as linear indices of sEMG data were used to demonstrate muscle activity and muscle fatigue. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and post hoc SNK test. The differences were considered significant at P <0.05.

Results

It was found that 89% of group A either completely recovered (39%) or clinically improved (50%), while only 22% of group B had a spontaneous improvement. sEMG analysis showed that at MPP, the mean of RMS value of MM in group A was lower than that of group B, which shows statistical differences (P <0.01). At ICP, the RMS value of MM in group A was higher than that of group B, which shows statistical differences (P <0.01). At MPP, MF value of MM in group A was higher than that of group B (P <0.05). At ICP, MF value of MM was lower than that of group B (P <0.01).

Conclusions

Occlusal splint could eliminate or improve the signs and symptoms of TMD patients with myofascial pain. sEMG analysis indicates that the wearing of occlusal splints may reduce the degree of fatigue of the masticatory muscles. The splint therapy outcome has a correlation with the electromyographic changes in the masticatory muscles.
Preliminary exploration of the development of a collagenous artificial dura mater for sustained antibiotic release
Authors: WANG Hao , DONG Hui , KANG Cheng-gui , LIN Cheng , YE Xun , ZHAO Yuan-li
Published: January 2024

Background

Intracranial infection is one of the most common complications of open craniocerebral injury and of conventional craniotomy in neurosurgery. The presence of blood-brain barrier leads to lower drug concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid than in the venous blood. Increasing the intravenous dosage or frequency carries the risk of systemic adverse reactions or infections in other parts of the body. Developing an artificial dura mater (ADM) for sustained antibiotic release for use during neurosurgery can solve the problems perfectly.

Methods

Three types of drug-loaded ADMs made of collagen and containing cefuroxime sodium, ceftriaxone sodium, or norvancomycin were prepared. The antibacterial activity and sustained release characteristics of the ADMs were examined using bacteriostatic and release tests.

Results

Single-layered collagen based ADMs (40 mm×50 mm×5 mm) containing 18 mg cefuroxime sodium or ceftriaxone sodium were not suitable for continued development because of drug preservation and stability issues. Using smaller ADMs (20 mm×30 mm×7 mm), containing 4.86 mg of norvancomycin, with increased collagen density and a three-layered film with two outer drug-free films above and below the antibiotic layer resulted in sustained cumulative release of 2.91 mg (59.9%) of norvancomycin over 72 hours. The similar factor (f2) comparison method proved that products from a same batch were statistically significant similar (f2 >50).

Conclusions

Artificial ADMs made of collagen can be processed to provide a mature dural repair material for the sustained release of norvancomycin. This system may provide a basis for developing sustained release materials for other drugs.
Activated Notch1 reduces myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury in vitro during ischemic postconditioning by crosstalk with the RISK signaling pathway
Authors: ZHOU Xue-liang , WAN Li , LIU Ji-chun
Published: January 2024

Background

Ischemic postconditioning (IPost), able to significantly attenuate myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury, is dependent on RISK signaling. Studies have shown that Notch signaling repairs damaged myocardium, and this study aimed to investigate the effect of Notch signaling in myocardial IPost.

Methods

We used H9c2 cells to establish the myocardial IPost and Hypoxia/Reoxygenation (H/R) model in vitro. which were randomly divided into control, H/R, IPost, Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)+IPost and DAPT+IPost, N1ICD+IPost, miRNA+IPost, and Mock treatment groups. The myocardial cell viability was assessed by MTT, the cell apoptosis was detected using Annexin V/PI double staining and flow cytometry analyses. The expression of N1ICD, Hes1, PTEN Phospho-Akt/Akt, Phospho-GSK-3β/GSK-3β were detected by Western blotting. Finally, we assessed the changes in Ψm using the potential-sensitive dye JC-1 and measured using flow cytometry analyses.

Results

The Notch1 signaling is activated by HGF and ectopic expression of N1ICD during myocardial IPost, which increased myocardial cell viability, prevented cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and reduced loss of the mitochondrial membrane potential. However, myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury was increased in IPost when Notch1 signaling was inhibited using DAPT or with knockdown by Notch1-miRNA. Western blotting found that PTEN was down-regulated by Hes1 when Notch1 was activated, which consequently promoted Akt and GSK-3β phosphorylation.

Conclusions

Notch1 crosstalk with RISK signaling may be dependent on PTEN, which plays a cardioprotective role during IPost. This mechanism could provide a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of ischemic heart disease.
Role of CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling axis in pancreatic cancer
Authors: WU Peng-fei , LU Zi-peng , CAI Bao-bao , TIAN Lei , ZOU Chen , JIANG Kui-rong , MIAO Yi
Published: January 2024

Objective

This review focuses on the state-of-the-art of CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling axis in pancreatic cancer and its role in tumor progression.

Data sources

Relevant articles published in English were identified by searching in Pubmed from 1997 to 2013, with keywords “CXCL12”, “CXCR4” and “pancreatic cancer”. Important references from selected articles were also retrieved.

Study selection

Articles about CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling axis in pancreatic cancer and relevant mechanisms were selected.

Results

Pancreatic cancer has been one of the most lethal human malignancies, with median survival less than one year and overall 5-year survival only 6%. Tumor cells from pancreatic cancer express high level of CXCR4. CXCL12, the ligand for CXCR4, is extensively secreted by neighboring stromal cells and other distant organs. CXCL12 primarily binds to CXCR4, induces intracellular signaling through several divergent pathways, which are involved in progression and metastasis of pancreatic cancer.

Conclusions

CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling axis may play an important role in the communication between pancreatic cancer cells and their microenvironment, which may have effect on tumor proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, metastasis and chemoresistance. CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling axis may serves as a novel therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer.
Predicted lower limit of normal reduces misclassification risk of airflow limitation in asymptomatic elderly never-smokers
Authors: WANG Yang , XIAO Wei , MA De-dong , JIANG Yuan-yuan
Published: January 2024

Background

It remains controversial what better defines abnormal lung function at the extremes of age. This study aimed to establish new spirometric reference equations for residents in Jinan and compare the most accepted two spirometric definitions of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)—a fixed post-bronchodilator ratio of forced expiratory volume in one second to forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) below 70% vs. FEV1/FVC <lower limit of normal (LLN)—in an elderly population (age ≥60 years).

Methods

Among 10 002 cases, only never-smokers who had no respiratory symptoms or diagnoses of cardiopulmonary diseases and whose lung function measurements strictly followed the American Thoracic Society guidelines, were included in the statistical analysis. For each gender, prediction equations of FEV1, FVC, FEV1 /FVC and corresponding LLN values were developed using multiple regression models.

Results

In this cross-sectional study, spirometric reference values were statistically derived from a sample of 1328 healthy never-smokers (672 males, 656 females), age 56–84 years. As expected, age and height were the main predictors for all lung function parameters. Using the two spirometric definitions, the number of pulmonary function test results interpreted as obstructed varied markedly in the elderly population for both genders (males: χ2=19.59, P < 0.01; females: χ2=5.67, P=0.017).

Conclusions

The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) criterion probably leads to over-diagnosis in asymptomatic elderly never-smokers. Our study suggests that the predicted LLN values will reduce the misclassification risk instead. However, cohort studies are urgently needed for clinical validation.
Heart rate distribution and predictors of resting heart rate after initiation of beta-blocker treatment in patients with coronary artery disease: REsults of Sympathetic Evaluation And Research of China (RESEARCH) study
Authors: ZHAO Ying-xin , LI Yue-ping , GAO Fei , MA Han-ying , WANG Zhi-jian , HAN Hong-ya , SHEN Hua , ZHOU Yu-jie
Published: January 2024

Background

The importance of heart rate as secondary prevention strategies for patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) is emphasized by multiple guidelines. However, limited information is available on the heart rate distribution and the change patterns of resting heart rate when initiating beta-blocker therapy among Chinese patients with CAD.

Methods

The REsults of Sympathetic Evaluation And Research of China (RESEARCH) study is a multi-centre, prospective, observational study involving 147 centers in 23 cities across China. All eligible beta-blocker naive patients were prescribed with metroprolol succinate. Initial dosage and target heart rate were selected at the discretion of their physicians in charge according to their usual institutional practice. The heart rate distribution and the change patterns of resting heart rate after initiation of beta-blocker therapy were observed.

Results

The majority of patients (63.6%) were prescribed with 47.5 mg metroprolol succinate. At baseline, there were only 17.4% of patients whose heart rate was less than 70 beats per minute, and the proportion reached 42.5% and 79.1%, one month and two months after initiation of beta-blockers, respectively. Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that baseline heart rate (B=0.900, SE=0.006, t=141.787, P<0.0001) and the dosage (B=-0.007, SE=0.002, t=-3.242, P=0.001) were independent predictors of resting heart rate 2 months after beta-blocker therapy.

Conclusions

Resting heart rate is not optimally controlled in a broadly representative cohort of Chinese outpatients with CAD even after initiation of β-blocker therapy, and baseline heart rate and the dosage of beta-blocker are both independent predictors of resting heart rate after β-blocker therapy.
Effect of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate on bone mineral density in adolescent women
Authors: ZHANG Mei-hua , ZHANG Wei , ZHANG Ai-dong , YANG Yan , GAI Ling
Published: January 2024

Background

Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) as a hormonal contraceptive is highly effective and widely used, but it may reduce bone mineral density (BMD) and increase the risk of osteoporosis. We compared BMD between users of intramuscular DMPA and nonhormonal subjects.

Methods

The study included 102 women aged between 16 and 18 years using DMPA for 24 months and 97 women aged between 16 and 18 years using nonhormonal contraception as nonusers control group. BMD of the lumbar spine and femoral neck was measured every 12 months for 24 months using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, comparing mean BMD changes in DMPA users and nonusers.

Results

There were no significant differences between groups at baseline in age, gynecologic age, body mass index (BMI), lumbar spine BMD and femoral neck BMD, etc. At 24 months of DMPA treatment, the mean percentage change from baseline in lumbar spine and femoral neck BMD values had decreased by 1.88% and 2.32%, respectively. The mean lumbar spine and femoral neck BMD in DMPA group at 24 months were not significantly different compared to baseline (P=0.212 and P=0.106, respectively). In comparison, in nonhormonal control group, there was a trend toward increasing BMD. At 24 months of observation, the mean percentage change from baseline in lumbar spine and femoral neck BMD had increased by 2.08% and 1.46%, respectively. There were no significant difference compared to baseline (P=0.160 and P=0.288, respectively). Mean BMD at the spine and femoral neck did not differ significantly between DMPA users and nonusers over 12-month, but the BMD values at both anatomical sites were significantly lower in DMPA users compared with nonusers after 24-month treatment (P=0.009 and P=0.009, respectively).

Conclusion

The evidence of our study suggested that the use of DMPA for short-term (≤12-month) has no significant effects on BMD at spine and femoral neck, but long-term exposure to DMPA may prevent the bone mass accrual in adolescents.
Clinical and CT imaging features of mucinous tubular and spindle cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhu Qingqiang , Zhu Wenrong , Wang Zhongqiu , Wu Jingtao
Published: January 2024

Background

There are relatively few reports focusing on clinical and multi-slice CT (MSCT) imaging findings of mucinous tubular and spindle cell carcinoma (MTSCC). Our study aimed to characterize the clinical and MSCT imaging features of MTSCC.

Methods

The imaging findings in 17 patients with MTSCC by MSCT were retrospectively studied. MSCT was undertaken to investigate tumor location, size, density, cystic or solid appearance, calcification, capsule sign, enhancement pattern, and retroperitoneal lymph node metastasis.

Results

Tumors (mean diameter, (3.9±1.7) cm) were solitary (17/17), solid (16/17) with cystic components (5/17), had no calcifications (14/17), had a poorly defined margin (14/17), were centered in the medulla (15/17), compressed the renal pelvis (7/17), and neither lymph node nor distant metastasis was found. The attenuation of MTSCC tumors was equal to that of the renal cortex or medulla on unenhanced CT (32.3±2.6, 36.3±4.6, 33.2±3.9, respectively, P >0.05), while tumor enhancement after administration of a contrast agent was lower than that of normal renal cortex and medulla during all phases (P <0.05).

Conclusion

MTSCC tends to be a solitary, isodense mass with poorly defined margin arising from the renal medulla with enhancement less than the cortex and medulla during all phases. Chin Med J 2014;127 (7): 1278–1283
Association between improved trunk stability and walking capacity using ankle-foot orthosis in hemiparetic patients with stroke: evidence from three-dimensional gait analysis
Authors: LAN Yue , XU Guang-qing , HUANG Dong-feng , MAO Yu-rong , CHEN Shao-zhen , PEI Zhong , ZENG Jin-sheng
Published: January 2024

Background

Restoration of both normal movement of the pelvis and centre of mass is a primary goal of walking rehabilitation in post-stroke patients because these movements are essential components of effective gait. The aim of this study is to quantitatively analyze the effect of ankle-foot orthosis on walking ability, and to investigate the correlation between improvements in trunk motion and walking capacity.

Methods

Walking speed, centre of mass displacement, and pelvic movements were examined in 20 post-stroke hemiparetic patients with and without ankle-foot orthosis using three-dimensional motion analysis.

Results

Using ankle-foot orthosis improved walking speed, pelvic rotation and tilt, and lateral and vertical displacements of the centre of mass (P <0.01). Moreover, the gait asymmetry index was significantly decreased (P <0.01), and the Functional Ambulation Categories score improved significantly when patients used an ankle-foot orthosis (P <0.05). There was significant correlation between improvements in the walking capacity and the displacement of the centre of mass in both vertical and lateral directions (P <0.01).

Conclusions

Using ankle-foot orthosis improves the walking capacity by improving the stability and concordant of the trunk in hemiplegic patients. The improvement in the walking capacity from using an ankle-foot orthosis may be attributed to its prevention of foot drop and compensation for the instability of the ankle joint.
A matched cohort study of laparoscopy-assisted and open total gastrectomy for advanced proximal gastric cancer without serosa invasion
Authors: Jianxian Lin , Changming Huang , Chaohui Zheng , Ping Li , Jianwei Xie , Jiabin Wang , Jun Lu
Published: January 2024

Background

Little is known about the feasibility and safety of laparoscopy-assisted total gastrectomy (LATG) with extended lymphadenectomy in patients with advanced gastric cancer (AGC). This study compared the technical feasibility, safety, and oncologic efficacy of LATG with open total gastrectomy (OTG) for AGC without serosa invasion.

Methods

From January 2009 to December 2011, 235 patients underwent LATG and 153 patients underwent OTG for AGC without serosa invasion. Age, gender, and depth of invasion (pT2 and pT3) were matched by propensity scoring, and 116 patients (58 LATG and 58 OTG) were selected for analysis. Their clinicopathologic characteristics, postoperative outcomes, and survival were compared.

Results

There was no significant difference in clinicopathologic characteristics between the two propensity-matched groups. Median number of lymph nodes per patient was 29, and the mean number of retrieved lymph nodes was similar in the LATG and OTG groups (30.8±10.2 vs. 29.0±8.3). Peri-operative characteristics, operation time, number of transfused units per patient, and time to resumption of activities were similar in the two groups; while blood loss, times to first flatus and resumption of soft diet, and post-operative stay were significantly lower in the LATG group (P <0.05, respectively). Rates of post-operative complications (12.1% vs. 15.5%) and postoperative mortality (0% vs. 1.7%), as well as cumulative survival rates, were similar.

Conclusions

LATG with D2 lymphadenectomy is a safe and feasible procedure for AGC patients without serosa invasion. Prospective, multicenter, randomized trials are needed to confirm the efficacy of LATG in this patient population.
Reversion effects of curcumin on multidrug resistance of MNNG/HOS human osteosarcoma cells in vitro and in vivo through regulation of P-glycoprotein
Authors: SI Meng , ZHAO Jie , LI Xin , TIAN Ji-guang , LI Yong-gang , LI Jian-min
Published: January 2024

Background

P-glycoprotein (P-gp) encoded by ATP-binding cassette sub-family B member 1 (ABCB1) gene is a kind of ATP-dependent drug transporter, which plays important roles in multidrug resistance (MDR) of human cancers, such as osteosarcoma. Curcumin is a natural phenolic coloring compound originating from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa, which is proved to possess antitumor biological activities including reversion of MDR. However, the effect and molecular mechanisms of curcumin to osteosarcoma MDR remain unclear.

Methods

We established a human osteosarcoma drug-resistant cell line MNNG/HOS/MTX by pulse exposure to methotrexate (MTX) and verified that the new cell lines were cross-resistant to other anticancer agents. Then, according to the cytotoxicity assay, we reversed MDR of MNNG/HOS/MTX by 30 μmol/L curcumin, and detected the mechanisms of curcumin reversing MDR through Real-time PCR, Western blotting assay, and Rhodamine123 (Rh123) transport test. Finally, we evaluated the effect of curcumin reversing MDR in vivo by MNNG/HOS/MTX cells xenograft-nude mice model.

Results

MNNG/HOS/MTX was proved to be a human osteosarcoma MDR cell line. MTT tumor chemosensitivity test indicates that 30 μmol/L curcumin attenuates the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) and resistance index (RI) to MTX, diamminedichloroplatinum (DDP), adriamycin (ADM), ifosfamide (IFO), and epirubicin (EPI) in MNNG/HOS/MTX cells (P<0.05). Real-time PCR and Western blotting assays demonstrated that curcumin down-regulated P-gp expression of MNNG/HOS/MTX cells. Rh123 transport test showed that curcumin inhibited the transport function of P-gp in vitro. In vivo studies showed that curcumin displayed the features of sensitizing antitumor drugs and inhibiting the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of osteosarcoma MDR cells.

Conclusion

Down-regulation of P-gp and inhibition of the function of P-gp efflux pump may contribute to MDR reversion induced by curcumin in vitro and in vivo.