bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suppressing SNAP-25 and reversing glial glutamate transporters relieves neuropathic pain in rats by ameliorating imbalanced neurotransmission
Authors: LIU Chang , GUO Qu-lian , HUANG Chang-sheng , ZOU Wang-yuan , SONG Zong-bin
Published: January 2024

Background

Neuropathic pain results from a lesion or disease affecting the somatosensory system at either the peripheral or central level. The transmission of nociception within the central nervous system is subject to modulation by release and reuptake of neurotransmitters, which maintain a dynamic balance through the assembly and disassembly of the SNARE complex as well as a series of neurotransmitter transporters (inhibitory GABA transporters GAT and excitatory glutamate transporters GT). Neuronal hyper-excitability or defected inhibition involved in neuropathic pain is one of the outcomes caused by imbalanced neurotransmission. SNAP-25, which is one of the SNARE complexes, can modulate the release of neurotransmitters. Glia glutamate transporter (GLT) is one of the two glutamate transporters which account for most synaptic glutamate uptake in the CNS. The role of SNAP-25 and GLT as well as GAT is not clearly understood.

Methods

We used the rat chronic constriction injury (CCI) model for research, and degraded SNAP-25 by a single intrathecal administration of BoNT/A. The mechanical (MWT) and thermal withdrawal latency (TWL) were tested. The level of SNAP-25, GLT, and GAT-1 were assayed using RT-PCR and Western blotting.

Results

SNAP-25 was suppressed by a single intrathecal administration of 0.01U BoNT/A and the reduction of SNAP-25 was correlated with the relief of nociceptive responses in CCI rats. MWT and TWL returned to normal from the 5th to 14th day (P<0.05) after the administration. On the 14th day after surgery, compared to the sham group, the upregulation of SNAP-25 in CCI rats was reversed after BoNT/A treatment (P<0.05). The decreased GLT was reversed after BoNT/A treatment but increased GAT-1 was not influenced by BoNT/A treatment.

Conclusions

SNAP-25 and GLT play important roles in the development of neuropathic pain, and the mechanism may involve the imbalance of neurotransmission after peripheral nerve injury. Intrathecal administration of BoNT/A reversed the upregulation of SNAP-25 and downregulation of GLT after CCI, but had no significant effect on the expression of GAT-1.
Biomechanical comparison of interspinous distraction device and facet screw fixation system on the motion of lumbar spine: a finite element analysis
Authors: Wang Hongwei , Wang Xiaohong , Chen Wenchuan , Zhao Fuqiang , Xiang Liangbi , Zhou Yue , Cheng Chengkung
Published: January 2024

Background

A large amount of biomechanical and clinical evidence from previous studies suggest the efficiency of the two different posterior lumber non-fusion methods, interspinous distraction device (ISDD) and facet screw fixation system (FSS), but the biomechanical comparison of ISDD and FSS has not been thoroughly clarified.

Methods

In the current study, finite element methods were used to investigate the biomechanical comparison of ISDD and FSS. The range of motion (ROM), intradiscal pressure (IDP) and the protective effects gained by maintaining disc heights were evaluated.

Results

The ROM was similar between the two non-fusion methods under static standing, flexion and lateral bending. The FSS appeared to be more effective in resisting extension. At the implanted level L3/4, FSS displayed better results for maintaining and increasing posterior disc heights. At the L4/5 level in extension and lateral bending, FSS was better than ISDD, with comparable results observed in other motions. Comparing the posterior and lateral disc heights, FSS appeared to be more effective than ISDD. FSS also had a minor effect on the inferior adjacent segment than ISDD. FSS was more effective in reducing IDP than ISDD in extension.

Conclusion

Through the finite element analysis study, it can be seen that FSS demonstrates more beneficial biomechanical outcomes than does ISDD, such as being more effective in resisting extension, maintaining and increasing lumbar disc heights and reducing the inferior adjacent IDP in extension.
Upregulation of glucosylceramide synthase protein in papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: ZHANG Ke , SONG Ying-hua , LIN Xiao-yan , WANG Qiang-xiu , ZHANG Hua-wei , XU Jia-wen
Published: January 2024

Background

Glucosylceramide synthase (GCS) can reduce ceramide levels and help cells escape ceramide-induced apoptosis, thus leading to multidrug resistance (MDR). However, its expression and clinical significance in thyroid neoplasms still remain unclear. We aimed to elucidate the expression of GCS and explore its correlation with the clinicopathological characteristics in papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTCs).

Methods

We retrospectively investigated GCS protein expression level in tissue specimens obtained from 108 consecutive PTC patients by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting.

Results

GCS was weakly positive or negative in normal follicular cells, but it was frequently overexpressed in PTC cells. GCS overexpression was associated with primary tumor size, local infiltration, lymph node metastasis, and local recurrence, but not associated with gender, age, pathological variants, tumor multifocality, tumor stage or distant metastasis. Western blotting also showed that GCS protein levels were much higher in PTCs' tissues than in normal thyroid tissues.

Conclusion

GCS was upregulated in PTCs and might be an independent factor affecting prognosis.
Relationship between AQP4 expression and structural damage to the blood-brain barrier at early stages of traumatic brain injury in rats
Authors: LU Hong , LEI Xiao-Yan , HU Hui , HE Zhan-Ping
Published: January 2024

Background

Although some studies have reported that aquaporin-4 (AQP4) plays an important role in the brain edema after traumatic brain injury (TBI), little is known about the AQP4 expression in the early stage of TBI, or about the correlation between the structural damage to the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and angioedema. The aim of this project was to investigate the relationship between AQP4 expression and damage to the BBB at early stages of TBI.

Methods

One hundred and twenty healthy adult Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups: sham operation group (SO) and TBI group. The TBI group was divided into five sub-groups according to the different time intervals: 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 hours. The brains of the animals were taken out at different time points after TBI to measure brain water content. The cerebral edema and BBB changes in structure were examined with an optical microscopy (OM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and the IgG content and AQP4 protein expression in traumatic brain tissue were determined by means of immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. The data were analyzed with SPSS 13.0 statistical software.

Results

In the SO group, tissue was negative for IgG, and there were no abnormalities in brain water content or AQP4 expression. In the TBI group, brain water content significantly increased at 6 hours and peaked at 24 hours following injury. IgG expression significantly increased from 1 to 6 hours following injury, and remained at a high level at 24 hours. Pathological observation revealed BBB damage at 1 hour following injury. Angioedema appeared at 1 hour, was gradually aggravated, and became obvious at 6 hours. Intracellular edema occurred at 3 hours, with the presence of large glial cell bodies and mitochondrial swelling. These phenomena were aggravated with time and became obvious at 12 hours. In addition, microglial proliferation was visible at 24 hours. AQP4 protein expression were reduced at 1 hour, lowest at 6 hours, and began to increase at 12 hours, showing a V-shaped curve.

Conclusions

The angioedema characterized by BBB damage was the primary type of early traumatic brain edema. It was followed by mixed cerebral edema that consisted of angioedema and cellular edema and was aggravated with time. AQP4 expression was down-regulated during the angioedema attack, but AQP4 expression was upregulated during intracellular edema.
Psychological distress, family functioning, and social support in family caregivers for patients with dementia in the mainland of China
Authors: ZHANG Hong , XIONG Rong-hong , Sara Hujiken , ZHANG Jun-jian , ZHANG Xiao-qin
Published: January 2024

Background

Dementia is a chronic progressive disease seriously affecting the patient's daily life and working skills and may cause the patient disability and dependence. Thus, caring for dementia patients inevitably falls on families in the mainland of China. Unfortunately, there are rarely enough reports available about mental health and social support in family caregivers for domestic dementia patients. This study aimed to investigate the changes in psychological status and social support in domestic dementia family caregivers and hope the government and relevant departments pay more attention to the family caregiver's psychological change, which may be better for dementia patients.

Methods

Fifty-eight immediate family caregivers (family group) for dementia patients, including 21 Alzheimer's disease (AD) and 37 vascular dementia inpatients, were recruited for interview. Fifty-eight age- and sex-matched normal volunteers (control group) were also interviewed in the same period. The psychiatric distress was assessed by the Symptom Checklist 90 (SCL-90), family functioning was assessed by the Family Assessment Device (FAD), and the social support was assessed by the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). Group differences were analyzed using unpaired t test for comparison of SCL-90, FAD, and MSPSS mean scores. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to find the association between the various dimensions of FAD and the social support from dementia family caregivers.

Results

Except phobic anxiety dimension, the other dimensions of SCL-90 mean scores were significantly higher in the family group than those in the control group (P <0.05). In the family group, except affective involvement dimension, the other dimensions of FAD mean scores were within the scope of unhealthy family functioning. Significant differences in problem solving, communication, roles, affective responsiveness, behavioral control, general functioning, and the total MSPSS mean scores were seen between the family group and the control group (P <0.01). Except affective involvement dimension, the other dimensions of the family functioning correlated with the perceived social support in the family group (P <0.05 or 0.01).

Conclusions

Dementia patients have a negative effect on families' mental health in the mainland of China. Dementia family caregivers experience defected family functioning and low levels of social support.
Efficacy of multimodal cocktail periarticular injection with or without steroid in total knee arthroplasty
Authors: YUE De-bo , WANG Bai-liang , LIU Kun-peng , GUO Wan-shou
Published: January 2024

Background

Multimodal cocktail periarticular injection (MCPI) with a large volume of low concentration local anesthetics, adrenaline, and anti-inflammatory agents such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug or steroids have shown good pain control and improvement in range of motion after surgery. This study compares the efficacy of pain control after total knee arthroplasty, using multimodal cocktail periarticular injection with steroid or without steroid.

Methods

This is a prospective, double-blinded, randomized and control study. Seventy-two patients with osteoarthritis that met clinical criteria for total knee arthroplasty were recruited into the study, and were randomized to receive either multimodal cocktail periarticular injection with steroid or without steroid. Pain was assessed by visual analogue scale (VAS) at preoperative and postoperative at rest, and during activity. The range of motion was recorded preoperatively and postoperatively. The amount of daily and cumulative morphine consumption were measured by patient-controlled analgesia in the first 72 hours postoperatively. The duration of celecoxib usage was also recorded at the last follow-up.

Results

There were no differences between the non-steroid and steroid groups with regard to VAS at rest and during activity, or range of motion, at any postoperative observation time. The postoperative Knee Society Knee Score in the steroid group improved significantly as compared with that in non-steroid group at the one-month (84.1±13.1 and 65.9±12.1; P <0.0045), three-month follow-up (90.2±16.3 and 72.5±16.6; P <0.0027), but after postoperative six-month the Knee Society Knee Score showed no significant difference between the groups. There was no significant difference in consumption of the morphine about daily or total consumption within 72 hours between the two groups. The duration of celecoxib usage in patients in the steroid group was significantly shorter than that in the non-steroid group ((7.2±0.7) compared with (10.5±1.9) weeks; P=0.012).

Conclusion

The patients who received the steroid injection had faster rehabilitation and less non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs consumption.
Comparison of unipedicular and bipedicular percutaneous kyphoplasty for treating osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures: a meta-analysis
Authors: LI Lian-hua , SUN Tian-sheng , LIU Zhi , ZHANG Jian-zheng , ZHANG Yan , CAI Yan-hong , WANG Hao
Published: January 2024

Background

Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PKP) has proved its effectiveness regarding minimal invasion, rapid pain reduction, safe cement augmentation, restoring vertebral height, and accelerating complete recovery of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs). Whether unipedicular or bipedicular PKP provides a better outcome is controversial.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Knowledge, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, and Wanfang Data from January 1980 to March 2013 with “kyphoplasty”, “unipedicular”, “bipedicular”, “compression fracture”, and “randomized controlled trial”. Risk of bias in the included studies was assessed according to a 12-item scale. Meta-analysis was performed. Dichotomous and continuous variables were calculated using the odds ratio (OR) and standardized mean difference (SMD), respectively.

Results

Seven studies involving 440 patients and 559 vertebral bodies met the criteria for inclusion. Among them, one randomized controlled trial had a high risk of bias and six a low risk. The pain visual analogue scale (VAS) SMDs were -0.02 (P=0.88) for short-term follow-up (≤3 months) and 0.03 (P=0.82) for long-term follow-up (≥1 year). Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) SMDs at short- and long-term follow-up were not statistically significant (-0.04, P=0.77 and -0.07, P=0.74, respectively). This meta-analysis showed greater polymethylmethacrylate volume (SMD -1.08, P=0.00) and operation time (SMD -2.40, P=0.00), favoring unipedicular PKP. Radiographic outcomes—preoperative kyphosis angle, restoration rate, reduction angle, loss of reduction angle—were not statistically different between the groups. Pooled analyses of cement leakage and subsequent adjacent OVCFs showed no significant differences between the groups, with OR=0.82 (P=0.79) and OR=1.41 (P=0.70), respectively.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis comparing unipedicular and bipedicular PKP demonstrated no significant differences regarding VAS, ODI, radiographic outcomes, or complications. Considering the longer operation time and radiation exposure with bipedicular PKP, we recommend unipedicular PKP over bipedicular PKP for treating OVCFs.
Impairment of recovery of muscle function by residual rocuronium after re-transfusion of intraoperative salvaged blood
Authors: Wang Geng , Wang Jia , Zhou Haibin , Zhao Xia , Wu Xinmin
Published: January 2024

Background

Recurarization has previously been described in the context of acute normovolemic hemodilution. The aim of this study was to investigate the impairment of recovery of neuromuscular function after re-transfusion of intraoperative salvaged blood in patients treated with rocuronium.

Methods

We enrolled 50 patients undergoing general anesthesia for lumbar surgery. Intraoperative blood salvage (IBS) was used in 30 patients (group I); the remaining 20 comprised a control group (group C). Anesthesia was induced with fentanyl, midazolam, propofol and rocuronium. Rocuronium was infused to maintain neuromuscular blockade during surgery. Blood was collected from the operative field and re-transfused in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). Neuromuscular function was monitored using the train-of-four ratio (TOFr). Once the train-of-four ratio exceeded 90 in the PACU, neuromuscular function was evaluated every 5 minutes for 30 minutes. The TOFr and incremental recovery of TOFr from baseline were recorded. Salvaged blood was re-transfused at the beginning of the evaluation for patients in group I, and afterwards for patients in group C. Blood gas analysis was assessed before anesthesia and in the PACU.

Results

Incremental recovery of TOFr from baseline was significantly less in group I than controls at 25 minutes (6.1±3.2 vs. 9.1±3.2, respectively; P=0.001) and 30 minutes (7.1±3.2 vs. 10.0±2.2, respectively; P=0.001). There were no significant differences in gas exchange between the groups.

Conclusions

In patients who had received a rocuronium infusion during anesthesia, re-transfusion of salvaged blood significantly impaired recovery of neuromuscular function recovery in the PACU, but without significant impairment of respiratory function.
Relation of myocardial bridge to myocardial infarction: a meta-analysis
Authors: Hong Lifeng , Liu Jun , Luo Songhui , Li Jianjun
Published: January 2024

Background

Small case series have suggested an association of coronary myocardial bridge (MB) with myocardial infarction (MI). However, the relationship between MB and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) remains largely unknown. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between MB and MACE involving MI.

Methods

We performed a systematic search of MEDLINE, PreMEDLINE, and all EMB Reviews as well as a reference list of relevant articles according to the SPICO (Study design, Patient, Intervention, Control-intervention, and Outcome) criteria using the following keywords: myocardial bridging, myocardial bridge, intramural coronary artery, mural coronary artery, tunneled coronary artery, coronary artery overbridging, etc. Bibliographies of the retrieved publications were additionally hand searched. Studies were included for the meta-analysis if they satisfied the following criteria: (1) they evaluate the association of MB with cardiovascular endpoint event; (2) they included individuals with MB and those without MB; 3) they excluded individuals with obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). Studies were reviewed by a predetermined protocol including quality assessment. Dates were pooled using a random effect model.

Results

Seven observational studies that followed 5 486 patients eligible for the enrolled criteria were included from 7 136 initially identified articles. The prevalence of MB was 24.8% (1 363/5 486). During 0.5-7.0 years of follow-up of this cohort of population, crude outcome rates were 8.0% in the MB group and 7.7% in the non-MB group. The odds ratio of overall MACE and MI were 1.34 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.57-3.17, P=0.51, n=7 studies) and 2.75 (95% CI: 1.08-7.02, P <0.03, n=5 studies) respectively for subjects of MB compared to non-MB.

Conclusion

Relationship between MB and MI appears to be a real one, although the study did not reveal a connection of MB to MACE, suggesting whether the necessity of antiplatelet therapy needs to be further studied in a larger cohort of patients with MB prospectively.
Analysis of Graves’ ophthalmopathy patients’ tear protein spectrum
Authors: JIANG Li-hong , WEI Rui-li
Published: January 2024

Background

Graves’ ophthalmopathy/orbitopathy (GO) patients often suffer ocular surface damages and tear fluid proteins play a significant role in maintaining healthy ocular surfaces, while changes in tear protein components reflect the changes ocular surface abnormalities. In this study proteomics techniques were used to investigate tear protein compositions in GO patients.

Methods

We carried out a case-control study by comparing tear fluid contents of GO patients with that of healthy subjects. In the first step the tears were subjected to SDS-PAGE electrophoresis and then single protein bands were analyzed by to in-gel trypsin digestion and nano-flow liquid mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) using a MS software.

Results

In tear samples of GO subjects, the protein fractions of inflammation-related protein immunoglobulin kappa chain C region (IgKC) and serum albumin were essentially reduced, whereas a novel isoform of complement component 3 (C3), which we detected in control subjects, was completely absent in the GO patients’ tears.

Conclusions

Reduced protein concentrations of particularly IgKC and complement C3 as well as albumin in the tears of GO patients may contribute to changes in their ocular surfaces via diminished reactive oxygen species (ROS) depletion and adaptive immune responses. The completely absent of C3 in the GO patients’ tears, may imply that an important inflammatory signaling pathway is affected, which needs further investigation.
Optimal time to use low molecular weight heparin on prethrombotic state of rat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease model
Authors: Yanqing Wang , Nina Sun , Zhaozhong Cheng , Li Tong , Mouyue Wang
Published: January 2024

Background

Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), as one of anticoagulant drugs, has been used for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with prethrombotic state, but the specific use time is unclear. The aim of the study is to observe the effect of LMWH at two different periods of prethrombotic state in COPD in rats and to find the optimal time to use LMWH.

Methods

Forty Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: normal control, raised for 55 days without any treatment; COPD control without LMWH, cigarette inhalation plus intratracheal instillation of lipopolysaccharide and hypodermic injection of normal saline once a day for 10 days; COPD control given LMWH 150 U/kg subcutaneous injection, once a day for 10 days starting day 15 (LMWH-d15); COPD control given LMWH 150 U/kg subcutaneous injection, once a day for 10 days starting day 29 (LMWH-d29).

Results

Comparing LMWH-d15 with LMWH-d29, plasma viscosity, whole blood viscosity, von Willebrand factor, serum fibrinogen, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 and fibrin D-dimer were each significantly reduced; but thrombin plasminogen activator increased significantly whilst arterial PO2 and PCO2 improved significantly.

Conclusion

The better time to use LMWH is the time when coagulation and fibrinolytic indices begin to change in COPD.
Resolvin-D1 inhibits interleukin-8 and hydrogen peroxide production induced by cigarette smoke extract in 16HBE cells via attenuating NF-κB activation
Authors: Jiajia Dong , Mingke Zhang , Zenglin Liao , Wei Wu , Tao Wang , Lei Chen , Ting Yang , Lingli Guo , Dan Xu , Fuqiang Wen , Mouyue Wang , Huan Liu
Published: January 2024

Background

Cigarette smoke induced airway inflammation plays a role in pathogenesis of airway inflammation. Resolvin-D1 derived from omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids is an endogenous anti-inflammatory and proresolving lipid mediator. Resolvin-D1 ameliorated inflammatory responses in lung injury, asthma, peritonitis and atherosclerosis. We investigated whether resolvin-D1 suppressed the productions of chemokines and oxidative stress induced by cigarette smoke extract (CSE) in vitro and its possible mechanism.

Methods

We examined the proinflammatory chemokine interleukin-8 and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) productions induced by CSE in 16 human bronchial epithelial (16HBE) cells after resolvin-D1 treatment and their mechanisms. 16HBE cells were treated with resolvin-D1 at up to 10 nmol/L, for 30 minutes before CSE up to 16% (v/v) exposure. Release of interlukin-8 proteins was assessed by enzyme linked immunosort assay (ELISA) and its mRNA level by RT-PCR. We evaluated extracellular H2O2 expression in the supernatant. Phosphorylation of NF-κB/p65 and degradation of I-κB in 16HBE cells were determined by Western blotting analysis and NF-κB DNA binding activity by electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA).

Results

16HBE cells treated with 8% CSE showed significantly higher interlukin-8 production. Resolvin-D1 pretreatment inhibited CSE induced interlukin-8 production (mRNA and protein) in a dose and time dependent manner. Extracellular H2O2 level decreased after resolvin-D1 treatment. Resolvin-D1 attenuated CSE triggered I-κB degradation and NF-κB/p65 activation dose dependently and inhibited NF-κB DNA binding activity.

Conclusion

Resolvin-D1 inhibits CSE induced interlukin-8 and H2O2 production in 16HBE cells by modulating NF-κB activation and has therapeutic potential for pulmonary inflammation.
Integrated positron emission tomography and computed tomography in preoperative lymph node staging of non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Xu Na , Wang Mengzhao , Zhu Zhaohui , Zhang Yingqiang , Jiao Yang , Fang Weigang
Published: January 2024

Background

Integrated positron emission tomography and computed tomography (PET/CT) is increasingly used for the preoperative nodal staging of non-smail cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of PET/CT in comparison with CT in detection of nodal metastasis and preoperative nodal staging in patients with NSCLC, and to analyze the causes of the PET/CT false-negative and false-positive results.

Methods

Consecutive patients with pathologically proven NSCLC who underwent staging using PET/CT from July 2008 to February 2012 were evaluated retrospectively. Nodal staging was pathologically confirmed on tissue specimens obtained at thoracotomy. The accuracy of PET/CT and CT in the assessment of intrathoracic nodal involvement was determined using histological results as the reference standard. Logistic regression was used to define the causes of the false-negative and false-positive results.

Results

A total of 528 lymph node stations were evaluated in 101 patients. Lymph nodes were positive for malignancy in 43 out of 101 patients (42.6%), and 101 out of 528 nodal stations (19.2%). PET/CT was significantly more accurate for nodal staging than CT. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and accuracy of PET/CT for detecting nodal metastasis were 51.5%, 95.8%, 74.3%, 89.3%, and 87.3% and the corresponding data by CT were 45.5%, 87.1%, 45.5%, 87.1%, and 79.2%, respectively. PET/CT confers significantly higher specificity, positive predictive value, and accuracy than CT in detecting nodal metastasis. False-negative results by PET/CT are significantly associated with smaller lymph node size, whereas false-positive results are related to a combination of inflammatory disorders and larger lymph node size.

Conclusion

PET/CT confers significantly higher accuracy than CT in nodal staging, and is more specific and accurate than CT in detecting nodal metastasis but has a low sensitivity and high false-negative rate.
Cervical disc arthroplasty with ProDisc-C artificial disc: 5-year radiographic follow-up results
Authors: ZHAO Yan-bin , SUN Yu , ZHOU Fei-fei , LIU ZHONG-jun
Published: January 2024

Background

Cervical disc arthroplasty is an alternative surgery to standard cervical decompression and fusion for disc degeneration. Different types of cervical disc prosthesis are used in China. The aim of this study was to evaluate the radiographic outcomes of cervical arthroplasty using the ProDisc-C prosthesis.

Methods

Radiographic evaluation, including static and dynamic flexion-extension lateral images, was performed at baseline and at final follow-up.

Results

Twenty six patients who had single-level ProDisc-C arthroplasty were followed up for a mean period of 63 months (56-76 months). The range of motion at the operated level was 9.3°±3.7° at baseline and 7.3°±3.5° at final follow-up, with a significant difference (P <0.05). Seventeen of 26 levels (65.4%) developed heterotopic ossification: three were classified as grade II, 13 were classified as grade III, and 1 as grade IV, according to McAfee's classification. Forty nine adjacent segments were evaluated by lateral X-ray and 18 (36.7%) segments developed adjacent segment degenerations.

Conclusions

ProDisc-C arthroplasty had acceptable radiographic results at 5-year follow-up. The range of motion was preserved. However, more than 60% of the patients developed heterotopic ossification.
Vitamin D receptor and its protective role in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Guan Xiaoling , Yang Huajie , Zhang Wei , Wang Huanjun , Liao Lin
Published: January 2024

Objective

To review the advances of studies on vitamin D receptor and its role in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy.

Data sources

A comprehensive search of the PubMed literatures without restriction on the publication date was carried out using keywords such as vitamin D receptor and diabetic nephropathy.

Study selection

Articles related to vitamin D receptor and diabetic nephropathy were selected and carefully analyzed.

Results

The ligands as well as construction and tissue distribution of vitamin D receptor were summarized. Pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy was analyzed. The mechanisms underlying the renoprotective role of vitamin D receptor including inhibition of renin-angiotensin system, anti-inflammation, anti-fibrosis and the reduction of proteinuria were reviewed. Mounting evidences from animal and clinical studies have suggested that vitamin D therapy has beneficial effects on the renal systems and the underlying renoprotective mechanisms of the vitamin D receptor-mediated signaling pathways is a hot research topic.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that vitamin D receptor has a great potential for preventing the progression of diabetic nephropathy via multiple mechanisms.
Results of transvenous lead extraction of coronary sinus leads in patients with cardiac resynchronization therapy
Authors: Starck Christoph T. , Caliskan Etem , Klein Holger , Steffel Jan , Schoenrath Felix , Falk Volkmar
Published: January 2024

Background

The need for transvenous lead extraction procedures of coronary sinus (CS) leads is increasing due to rising numbers of implanted cardiac resynchronization therapy devices during the past decade.

Methods

From January 2009 to June 2013, 27 CS leads were scheduled for extraction in 27 patients (mean age (63.1±14.6) years). Indications for lead extraction were infection in 13 and lead dysfunction in 14 cases. Isolated extraction of CS leads was performed in eight, extraction of multiple leads in 19 cases. Among leads with an implant time of ≥12 months (n=19) mean implant duration (MID) was (46.4±15.2) (12-76) months. Groups were formed depending on infectious or non-infectious indications (INF vs. Non-INF), and the use or non-use of extraction tools (ET1 vs. ET0).

Results

Among patients with an implant duration of ≥12 months, complete procedural success was 94.7% and clinical success 100%. Operative mortality was zero. In the INF versus NON-INF groups complete procedural success (100% vs. 91.7%, P=0.43), mean number of required extraction tools (0.7 (0-2) vs. 0.9 (0-3), P=0.65) and MID (49.1±15.0 vs. 44.7±15.8, P=0.83) did not differ significantly. Comparing the groups ET1 and ET0 showed no significant differences in complications (n=1 vs. n=1, P=0.81) and MID (47.0±17.5 vs. 45.5±12.6, P=0.71).

Conclusions

In specialized centers transvenous lead extraction of coronary sinus leads with a mean implant duration of almost four years can be performed safely and effectively. Neither non-infectious indications nor the use of extraction tools negatively affected the outcome of the procedure.
Mitochondrial biogenesis of astrocytes is increased under experimental septic conditions
Authors: Wang Yang , Chen Zhijiang , Zhang Yu , Fang Suzhen , Zeng Qiyi
Published: January 2024

Background

Mitochondrial dysfunction has been reported to be one of the contributing factors of sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE). Mitochondrial biogenesis controls mitochondrial homeostasis and responds to changes in cellular energy demand. In addition, it is enhanced or decreased due to mitochondrial dysfunction during SAE. The aim of this study was to explore the changes of mitochondrial biogenesis of astrocytes under septic conditions.

Methods

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 50 ng/ml) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ; 200 U/ml) were incubated with astrocytes to model the effects of a septic insult on astrocytes in vitro. The mitochondrial ultrastructure and volume density were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy. Intracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels were detected by the firefly luciferase system. The expression of protein markers of mitochondrial biogenesis and the binding ability of mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) were determined by western blot and electrophoretic mobility shift assays, respectively. The mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content was detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

The number of mildly damaged mitochondria was found to be significantly greater after treatment for 6 hours, as compared with at 0 hour (P<0.05). The mitochondrial volume density was significantly elevated at 24 hours, as compared with at 0 hour (P<0.05). The ATP levels at 6 hours, 12 hours, and 24 hours were significantly greater than those at 0 hour (P<0.05). The protein markers of mitochondrial biogenesis were significantly increased at 6 hours and 12 hours, as compared with at 0 hour (P<0.05). The TFAM binding activity was not significantly changed among the four time points analyzed. The mtDNA contents were significantly increased at 12 hours and 24 hours, as compared with at 0 hour (P<0.05).

Conclusions

Under septic conditions, mitochondrial biogenesis of astrocytes increased to meet the high-energy demand and to promote mitochondrial recovery. Furthermore, the TFAM-DNA binding ability was not sensitive to sepsis-induced injury.
Role of mitochondria in the pathogenesis and treatment of glaucoma
Authors: YANG Xue-Jiao , GE Jian , ZHUO Ye-Hong
Published: January 2024

Objective

To gain insight into the potential mechanism of mitochondria dysfunction in pathogenesis, progression and therapeutic management of glaucoma.

Data sources

The data used in this review were mainly published in English from 2000 to present obtained from PubMed. The search terms were “mitochondria”, “glaucoma” and “trabecular meshwork” or “retinal ganglion cells”.

Study selection

Articles studying the mitochondria-related pathologic mechanism and treatment of glaucoma were selected and reviewed.

Results

Mitochondrial dysfunction or injury was demonstrated in different eye tissue of glaucoma. A variety of potential injuries (light, toxic materials, oxidative injury, mechanical stress, aging, etc.) and the inherent DNA defects are deemed to cause mitochondrial structural and functional destruction in trabecular meshwork cells, retinal ganglion cells, etc. of glaucoma. In addition, various new experimental and therapeutic interventions were used to preserve mitochondrial function, which may be useful for protecting against optic nerve degeneration or reducing the death of retinal ganglion cells in glaucoma.

Conclusions

Mitochondria play an important role in the pathogenesis of glaucoma, various strategies targeting mitochondrial protection might provide a promising way to delay the onset of glaucoma or protect RGCs against glaucomatous damage.
Application of a three-dimensional microsurgical video system for a rat femoral vessel anastomosis
Authors: Liu Jianfeng , Chen Bin , Ni Yong , Zhan Yongqiang , Gao Haibin
Published: January 2024

Background

The operating microscopes have been applied to modern surgery for nearly a century. However, generations of microsurgeons have to flex their necks and fix their eyes on the eyepieces of a microscope continually that leads to physical and mental fatigue during a long operation. Stereoscopic three-dimensional (3D) media provides more ergonomic working environment, subsequently, resulting better performance in tasks and more accurate judgment. In this study, an alternative method of magnification was analyzed using a three-dimensional microsurgical video system and compared with the traditional method under microscopy to evaluate the availability and feasibility of a 3D microsurgical video system for microvascular anastomosis.

Methods

Forty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups with each of 10. In 20 rats, 10 femoral artery anastomoses with a conventional microscope (arterial microscope group) were compared with that of 10 femoral artery anastomoses with a 3D microsurgical video system (arterial 3D group). For the other 20 rats, 10 femoral vein anastomoses using a conventional microscope (venous microscope group) were compared with that of 10 femoral vein anastomoses using a 3D microsurgical video system (venous 3D group). The arterial and venous microscope groups were considered to be the control groups. The arterial and venous 3D groups were the experimental groups. The examined criteria were as follows: anastomotic time, patency right after the procedure and 10 days later, number of sutures, vessel caliber, and pathological features.

Results

There were no differences between the operating equipment with respect to vessel caliber, anastomotic time, patency rate, number of sutures, and pathological changes in either the small arteries or veins. The average arterial anastomotic time of the arterial microscope group and arterial 3D group was 34.21 and 33.87 minutes, respectively (P >0.05). The average venous anastomotic time of the venous microscope group and venous 3D group was 29.95 and 31.50 minutes, respectively (P >0.05).

Conclusions

A small vessel anastomosis can be performed successfully with the help of a 3D display system. Although the vascular anastomotic time did not demonstrate a significant difference between the groups, the 3D microsurgical video system offers another option to improve the working environment for surgeons. Further development of our 3D monitoring system should focus on a higher resolution and better flexibility.
Concurrent chemoradiotherapy comparison of taxanes and platinum versus 5-fluorouracil and platinum in nasopharyngeal carcinoma treatment
Authors: Chen Xichuang , Hong Yuan , Feng Jinhua , Ye Jianlin , Zheng Panpan , Guan Xiyin , You Xiaohong , Song Huizhu
Published: January 2024

Background

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a squamous-cell carcinoma especially prevailing among the natives of southern China. The regimen of concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) that include platinum and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is considered to be the standard treatment for NPC. However, its clinical use is limited by its toxicity. Our purpose was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the regimen of CCRT with taxanes and platinum versus the regimen of CCRT with 5-FU and platinum in NPC treatment.

Methods

Medline, the Cochrane library, and the Chinese medical literature database were searched for eligible studies. Meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager (Version 5.2).

Results

Six random controlled trials (RCTs) including 514 patients met our criteria. Meta-analysis showed that the regimen of CCRT with taxanes and platinum had an improved significant difference in complete remission (CR) and less incidence rate in adverse reactions such as gastrointestinal impairment grades III—IV, liver and kidney impairment grades I—II, and radiodermatitis grades III—IV versus the conventional regimen of CCRT with 5-FU and platinum, while the longterm effectiveness rate of overall survival, locoregional failure-free survival, or distant metastasis failure-free survival between the two groups was therapeutic equivalence.

Conclusions

The regimen of CCRT with taxanes and platinum in NPC therapy may be more efficient and safe compared to the conventional modality of 5-FU and platinum in CCRT. However, we need more high-quality studies of multi-center and randomized double-blind clinical trials to further compare, analyze, and confirm the findings.
Allogeneic compact bone-derived mesenchymal stem cell transplantation increases survival of mice exposed to lethal total body irradiation: a potential immunological mechanism
Authors: Shukai Qiao , Hanyun Ren , Yongjin Shi , Wei Liu
Published: January 2024

Background

Radiation-induced injury after accidental or therapeutic total body exposure to ionizing radiation has serious pathophysiological consequences, and currently no effective therapy exists. This study was designed to investigate whether transplantation of allogeneic murine compact bone derived-mesenchymal stem cells (CB-MSCs) could improve the survival of mice exposed to lethal dosage total body irradiation (TBI), and to explore the potential immunoprotective role of MSCs.

Methods

BALB/c mice were treated with 8 Gy TBI, and then some were administered CB-MSCs isolated from C57BL/6 mice. Survival rates and body weight were analyzed for 14 days post-irradiation. At three days post-irradiation, we evaluated IFN-γ and IL-4 concentrations; CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cell (Treg) percentage; CXCR3, CCR5, and CCR7 expressions on CD3+ T cells; and splenocyte T-bet and GATA-3 mRNA levels. CB-MSC effects on bone marrow hemopoiesis were assessed via colony-forming unit granulocyte/macrophage (CFU-GM) assay.

Results

After lethal TBI, compared to non-transplanted mice, CB-MSC-transplanted mice exhibited significantly increased survival, body weight, and CFU-GM counts of bone marrow cells (P<0.05), as well as higher Treg percentages, reduced IFN-γ, CXCR3 and CCR5 down-regulation, and CCR7 up-regulation. CB-MSC transplantation suppressed Th1 immunity. Irradiated splenocytes directly suppressed CFU-GM formation from bone marrow cells, and CB-MSC co-culture reversed this inhibition.

Conclusion

Allogeneic CB-MSC transplantation attenuated radiation-induced hematopoietic toxicity, and provided immunoprotection by alleviating lymphocyte-mediated CFU-GM inhibition, expanding Tregs, regulating T cell chemokine receptor expressions, and skewing the Th1/Th2 balance toward anti-inflammatory Th2 polarization.
Association of atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis with major adverse cardiovascular events after acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Zheng Bin , Liu Jinghua , Ma Qin , Zhao Donghui , Wang Xin , Zheng Ze
Published: January 2024

Background

Patients with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis (ARAS) are in substantial risk of cardiovascular adverse events. We investigated whether myocardial infarction patients with ARAS are in additional risk of cardiovascular events.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 257 patients with type 1 myocardial infarction were enrolled. Median follow-up was 42 months. Composite endpoint events are analyzed by definitions of ARAS as ≥50% or ≥70% diameter stenosis.

Results

Defining ARAS as ≥70% diameter stenosis, ARAS was a significant predictor for composite endpoint events including death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, ischaemic stroke and intracranial haemorrhage, rehospitalisation for cardiac failure (HR: 4.381; 95% CI: 1.770-10.842) by Cox regression analysis, but not for death. Diabetes mellitus was also a significant predictor for composite endpoint events (HR: 2.756; 95% CI: 1.295-5.863). However, defining ARAS ≥50% diameter stenosis, ARAS was no longer a significant predictor for composite endpoint events or death.

Conclusions

Although not associated with mortality, ARAS ≥70% is associated with major adverse cardiac events after acute myocardial infarction. For prognosis, ≥70% diameter stenosis is a more appropriate criteria for ARAS definition than ≥50% diameter stenosis.
A comparison of implantation, miscarriage and pregnancy rates of single and double day 3 embryo transfer between fresh and frozen thawed transfer cycles: a retrospective study
Authors: Liu Liu , Tong Xiaomei , Jiang Lingying , Tinchiu Li , Zhou Feng , Zhang Songying
Published: January 2024

Background

Reduced endometrial receptivity in hyperstimulated cycles may lead to a lower implantation rate and a lower clinical pregnancy rate, but it is unclear if it is also associated with an increase in pregnancy loss rate. The aim of this study was to compare the implantation, miscarriage, and pregnancy rates between fresh and frozen thawed transfer of one or two day-3 embryos, with a view to understanding whether or not reduced endometrial receptivity encountered in hyperstimulated cycles is associated with an increase in miscarriage rate.

Methods

This study involved a consecutive series of 1 551 single day-3 embryo transfer cycles and consecutive 5 919 double day-3 embryo transfer cycles in the Assisted Reproductive Unit of the Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Hangzhou, China, between January 2010 and December 2012.

Results

The implantation and clinical pregnancy rates (single embryo 30.7% and double embryos 33.4% and 51.4%) using fresh cycle were both significantly lower than that of frozen-thawed cycles (single embryo 35.8% and double embryos 38.1% and 57.8%). There was no difference in biochemical loss or clinical miscarriage rates between the two groups.

Conclusions

Impairment of endometrial receptivity associated with ovarian hyperstimulation leads to implantation failure at a very early stage, resulting in an increased number of non-pregnancy. It does not lead to increase in biochemical or clinical losses. The significantly reduced ongoing pregnancy rates in both fresh single and double embryo transfer are therefore due to failure to achieve a pregnancy, rather than pregnancy loss after conception.
Comparative study of minimally invasive versus open esophagectomy for esophageal cancer in a single cancer center
Authors: Mu Juwei , Yuan Zuyang , Zhang Baihua , Li Ning , Lyu Fang , Mao Yousheng , Xue Qi , Gao Shugeng , Zhao Jun , Wang Dali , Li Zhishan , Gao Yushun , Zhang Liangze , Huang Jinfeng , Shao Kang , Feng Feiyue , Zhao Liang , Li Jian , Cheng Guiyu , Sun Kelin , He Jie
Published: January 2024

Background

In order to minimize the injury reaction during the surgery and reduce the morbidity rate, hence reducing the mortality rate of esophagectomy, minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) was introduced. The aim of this study was to compare the postoperative outcomes in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma undergoing minimally invasive or open esophagectomy (OE).

Methods

The medical records of 176 consecutive patients, who underwent minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) between January 2009 and August 2013 in Cancer Institute & Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, were retrospectively reviewed. In the same period, 142 patients who underwent OE, either Ivor Lewis or McKeown approach, were selected randomly as controls. The clinical variables of paired groups were compared, including age, sex, Charlson score, tumor location, duration of surgery, number of harvested lymph nodes, morbidity rate, the rate of leak, pulmonary morbidity rate, mortality rate, and hospital length of stay (LOS).

Results

The number of harvested lymph nodes was not significantly different between MIE group and OE group (median 20 vs. 16, P=0.740). However, patients who underwent MIE had longer operation time than the OE group (375 vs. 300 minutes, P <0.001). Overall morbidity, pulmonary morbidity, the rate of leak, in-hospital death, and hospital LOS were not significantly different between MIE and OE groups. Morbidities including anastomotic leak and pulmonary morbidity, in-hospital death, hospital LOS, and hospital expenses were not significantly different between MIE and OE groups as well.

Conclusions

MIE and OE appear equivalent with regard to early oncological outcomes. There is a trend that hospital LOS and hospital expenses are reduced in the MIE group than the OE group.