bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of p38 activity reverses claudin-6 induced cell apoptosis, invasion, and migration
Authors: WU Qiong , LIU Xing , LIU Ya-fang , LU Yan , WANG Li-ping , ZHANG Xiao-wei , LI Yu-lin , QUAN Cheng-shi
Published: January 2024

Background

Claudin-6 is a protein component of tight junctions and its expression could downregulate the malignant phenotype of breast carcinoma. Here we investigated the mechanisms of claudin-6 induced human MCF-7 breast cancer cells apoptosis, invasion, and migration.

Methods

Terminal deoxyribonucleotide transferase-mediated nick-end labeling assay and Annexin-V/PI double stain assay were carried out to evaluate apoptosis. Inhibitors of each pathway were used to inactivate the signaling pathways. The expression of claudin-6 and phosphate p38, Erk 1/2 and Akt protein levels was confirmed by Western blotting analysis. Invasive and migratory traits of claudin-6 expressing cells were determined by Boyden chamber invasion assay and monolayer wound-healing assay.

Results

Cells with high-level expression of claudin-6 had a higher rate of apoptosis than control cells. Western blotting assay showed that by contrast to control groups, p38 pathways were more activated in claudin-6 expressing cells. However, after inhibitor SB203580 treatment, the activation status could be significantly counteracted. Furthermore, by applying inhibitors to the apoptotic rate, invasive and migratory traits were also recovered in cells with claudin-6 expression.

Conclusion

Claudin-6 may function through p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway, of which inhibition may reverse claudin-6-induced cell apoptosis, invasion, and migration.
A novel deletion-frameshift mutation in the S1 region of HERG gene in a Chinese family with long QT syndrome
Authors: GAO Ying , ZHANG Ping , LI Xue-bin , WU Cun-cao , GUO Ji-hong
Published: January 2024

Background

The congenital Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a hereditary cardiac channelopathy that is characterized by a prolonged QT interval, syncope, ventricular arrhythmias, and sudden death. The chromosome 7-linked type 2 congenital LQTS (LQT2) is caused by gene mutations in the human ether-a-go-go-related gene (HERG).

Methods

A Chinese family diagnosed with LQTS were screened for KCNQ1, HERG and SCN5A, using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), direct sequencing, and clong sequencing. We also investigated the mRNA expression of the HERG gene.

Results

We identified a novel I414fs+98X mutation in the HERG gene. The deletion mutation of 14-bp in the first transmembrane segment (S1) introduced premature termination codons (PTCs) at the end of exon 6. This mutation would result in a serious phenotype if the truncated proteins co-assembled with normal subunit to form the defective channels. But only the proband was symptomatic.

Conclusions

We found that the mRNA level of the HERG gene was significantly lower in I414fs+98X carriers than in noncarriers. We found a novel I414fs+98X mutation. The mRNA level supports that NMD mechanism might regulate the novel mutation.
Differential diagnosis of isolated calf muscle vein thrombosis and gastrocnemius hematoma by high-frequency ultrasound
Authors: SU Li-ya , GUO Fa-jin , XU Guang , HAN Xiu-jie , SUN Chang-kun , ZHANG Zheng , JING Qing-hong
Published: January 2024

Background

Differential diagnosis of isolated calf muscle vein thrombosis (ICMVT) and gastrocnemius hematoma is essential for early identification of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of high-frequency color Doppler ultrasound for differential diagnosis of ICMVT and gastrocnemius hematoma.

Methods

A retrospective case series of 35 ICMVT (M:F, 21:14; mean age (64.5±10.6) years) and 23 gastrocnemius hematoma (M:F, 16:7; mean age (75.4±11.8) years) patients with bilateral/unilateral lower limb pain was conducted between January 2006 and September 2012. Characteristics and the morphology of high-frequency color Doppler ultrasonography of the lower limb deep vein, great saphenous vein, calf muscles, skin, and soft tissue were examined.

Results

ICMVT hypoechoic signals were characterized by long, tube-like masses on longitudinal sections and oval masses on transverse sections, with apparent muscle thrombosis boundaries, distal and proximal venous connections, and, often, lower limb DVT. Gastrocnemius hematoma hypoechoic signals were characterized by large volumes, enhanced posterior hematoma echo, hyperechoic muscle boundaries, no hematoma blood flow, and no DVT, and clear differences in trauma/exercise- and oral anticoagulant-induced hematomas were readily apparent. According to the measurement, the ratio of long diameter/transverse diameter (D/T) in ICMVT patients was about less than 2.0, whereas in gastrocnemius hematoma patients the ratio was more than 2.0. Early stage isoechoic and hypoechoic signals were detected with gradually increasing ovular anechoic areas. Partial muscle fibers in the hematoma due to muscle fractures were apparent.

Conclusion

High-frequency color Doppler ultrasound was found to be a sensitive and reliable method for differential diagnosis of ICMVT and gastrocnemius hematoma due to trauma and exercise or prolonged oral anticoagulant use.
Closed patella fracture combined with cruciate ligament injury: a case control study
Authors: LI Han , WANG Wei , LIU Yue-ju , CHEN Wei , ZHANG Qi , LI Xu , ZHU Lian , ZHANG Ying-ze
Published: January 2024

Background

Patellar fracture and cruciate ligament injury are a common consequence of traumatic knee injury. Patellar fracture combined with cruciate ligament injury is rarely reported, although the mechanisms of two things are similar. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence of closed patella fracture combined with cruciate ligament injury.

Methods

From 2012 March 1 to June 30, magnetic resonance images of 60 patients with unilateral closed patellar fracture were studied in our institution. The mean age of the patients at presentation was 40.2 years (range, 13-64 years) and 48 patients were men. First, patients were divided according to the cause of injury. Twenty-eight patients had highenergy trauma from a falling injury or motor vehicle accident, and 32 patients had low-energy trauma resulting from a tumbling injury. Second, according to the fracture pattern, 31 patients had a transverse fracture and 29 patients had a comminuted fracture.

Results

We found seven cases of closed patellar fracture combined with cruciate ligament injury among 60 patients, including two cases of a completely ruptured posterior cruciate ligament, two with a partially torn posterior cruciate ligament, and three with a partially torn anterior cruciate ligament. The percentage of this combined injury was 11.6% (7/60). The incidence of a combined injury of the cruciate ligament with a comminuted fracture (6/29, 20.7%) was significantly higher than that with a transverse fracture (1/31, 3.2%, P <0.05). The most common mechanism of injury in patellar fracture combined with cruciate ligament injury was high-energy trauma from road traffic accidents (94%), whereas in the patellar fracture alone, it was tumbling (62%). The incidence of combined injury with high-energy trauma (6/28, 21.4%) was significantly higher than that with low-energy trauma (1/32, 3.1%, P <0.05).

Conclusions

These data suggest that high-energy trauma often results in a comminuted patellar fracture, which is often combined with cruciate ligament injury. Traffic accidents are the main risk factor for this combined injury. Understanding the relationship between patellar fracture and cruciate ligament injury for diagnosis and treatment is important.
Factors associated with delayed intracerebral hemorrhage after superficial temporal artery-middle cerebral artery bypass in steno-occlusive cerebrovascular diseases
Authors: Mao Zhiqi , Li Meng , Li William A. , Yu Xinguang
Published: January 2024

Background

Intra-cerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a devastating complication that can result from superficial temporal artery-middle cerebral artery (STA-MCA) bypass in patients undergoing treatment for steno-occlusive cerebrovascular disease (CVD). There is a clinical need to find the possible risk factors to prevent ICH, as it is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity. The aim of the study was to investigate the factors associated with delayed ICH after STA-MCA bypass in patients with steno-occlusive CVDs.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the records of 163 patients seen from 2002 to 2011 with STA-MCA bypass for steno-occlusive cerebrovascular diseases at the Department of Neurosurgery, Xuan Wu Hospital, Beijing. Demographic and clinical data, including age, gender, vascular risk factors, preoperative syndrome, preoperative National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), ipsilateral ischemic lesions, classification of steno-occlusive CVDs, donor branches of STA, graft patency, postoperative hypertension, and postoperative-increased MCA velocity were recorded and analyzed. Binary Logistic regression served to identify factors associated with delayed ICH after STA-MCA bypass.

Results

We identified 8 (4.9%) patients with delayed ICH after STA-MCA bypass. Patients with hypertension, preoperative stroke, ipsilateral ischemic lesions, postoperative hypertension and postoperative-increased MCA velocity were significantly more prone to experiencing delayed ICH after STA-MCA bypass. Logistic regression analysis shows ipsilateral ischemic lesions, postoperative hypertension, and postoperative-increased MCA velocity remained independent predictors for delayed ICH after STA-MCA bypass.

Conclusion

Despite the varied associated factors in patients with steno-occlusive CVDs, ipsilateral ischemic lesions, postoperative hypertension, and postoperative-increased MCA velocity could be associated with delayed ICH after STA-MCA bypass.
Thirty-day outcome of carotid artery stenting in Chinese patients: a single-center experience
Authors: JIAO Li-qun , SONG Gang , LI Shen-mao , MIAO Zhong-rong , ZHU Feng-shui , JI Xun-ming , YIN Guo-yang , CHEN Yan-fei , WANG Ya-bing , MA Yan , LING Feng
Published: January 2024

Background

Carotid artery stenting (CAS) as a competing treatment modality has had to adhere to limits to gain widespread acceptance in some studies. This study analyzed the clinical data of 1700 consecutive patients after CAS to retrospectively evaluate the 30-day outcome of CAS for internal carotid artery stenosis in a Chinese population.

Methods

Medical records of 1700 patients who underwent CAS at Xuanwu Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University between January 2001 and August 2012 were reviewed. Postoperative 30-day complication rates were analyzed and compared with those of other studies. Univariate and multivariate Logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with perioperation myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and death.

Results

The overall 30-day rate of MI, stroke, and death after CAS was 2.53%. In univariate analysis, patients who were symptomatic, had a neurological deficit (modified Rankin score (mRS) ≥3; P=0.001), and who were not taking statins experienced a significantly increased rate of MI, stroke, and death (P=0.017). In multivariate Logistic regression analysis, the presence of symptoms (odds ratio (OR)=2.485; 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.267-4.876; P=0.008) and a neurological deficit (mRS ≥3) (OR=3.025; 95% CI=1.353-6.763; P=0.007) were independent risk factors for perioperative MI, stroke, and death.

Conclusions

According to this single-center experience, CAS may effectively prevent and treat carotid artery stenosis that would otherwise lead to stroke. Being symptomatic and having a neurological deficit (mRS ≥3) increased the risk of perioperative MI, stroke, and death.
Fasudil hydrochloride hydrate, a Rho-kinase inhibitor, ameliorates hepatic fibrosis in rats with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Zhou Hong , Fang Caixia , Zhang Lihui , Deng Yonggui , Wang Mian , Meng Fengling
Published: January 2024

Background

Hyperglycemia may accelerate liver fibrosis. Currently, there is no effective treatment for liver fibrosis induced by type 2 diabetes. The study aim was to investigate whether RhoA/Rho kinase (ROCK) pathway is involved in liver fibrosis in the rats with type 2 diabetes and define the protective effects of fasudil on livers.

Methods

A rat model of type 2 diabetes was established by high fat diet combined with streptozotocin (30 mg/kg, intraperitoneal injection). Animals were randomly assigned to 3 groups: control rats, untreated diabetic rats that received vehicle and fasudil-treated diabetic rats that received ROCK inhibitor fasudil hydrochloride hydrate (10 mg/kg per day, intraperitoneal injection, for 14 weeks). The morphological features of liver were observed by HE staining. Accumulation of collagen in livers was determined by Masson staining and the measurement of hydroxyproline. The mRNA expression of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), type-I, and type-III procollagen was assessed with real-time polymerase chain reaction. The phosphorylation of myosin phosphatase target subunit-1 (MYPT1) and the protein levels of TGFβ1 and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were evaluated by Western blotting.

Results

Compared with control rats, untreated diabetic rats showed higher values of collagen and hydroxyproline in livers (P <0.01), the phosphorylation of MYPT1 and the protein levels of TGFβ1 and α-SMA were increased (P <0.01), and the mRNA expression of TGFβ1, CTGF, type-I, and type-III procollagen was upregulated (P <0.01); compared with untreated diabetic rats, treatment with fasudil signifcantly reduced values of collagen and hydroxyproline (P <0.01), and decreased the phosphorylation of MYPT1 and the levels of TGFβ1 and α-SMA (P <0.01), concomitant with the downregulation of TGFβ1/CTGF, type-I, and type-III procollagen mRNA expression (P <0.01).

Conclusions

Fasudil ameliorates liver fibrosis in rats with type 2 diabetes at least partly by inhibiting TGFβ1/CTGF pathway and α-SMA expression. Inhibition of RhoA/ROCK may be a novel therapeutic target for liver fibrosis in diabetic non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.
Prevention and treatment of viral respiratory infections by traditional Chinese herbs
Authors: Wang Xiaoguang , Liu Zejing
Published: January 2024

Objective

This review focuses on current knowledge of traditional Chinese herbs on prevention and treatment of viral respiratory infections, especially caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndromes (SARS) virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza viruses.

Data sources

The data used in this review were obtained from PubMed and CNKI up to May 2013. Terms of Chinese herbs and infections of respiratory tract were used in the search.

Study selection

Articles related that Chinese herbs preventing and treating infections in respiratory tract were retrieved and reviewed. The risk of bias of included studies was assessed by the method in the “Cochrane Handbook of Systematic Reveiws of Interventionsand studies” with high risk of bias were excluded. Four criteria for selections were set as following: randomized controlled trial, particular effective compound or derivative, reproducible result and animal test.

Results

Infectious respiratory tract diseases cause most mortality among infectious illnesses around the world. As traditional medicines, Chinese herbs have been widely used to deal with diseases for centuries and have been proved effective in practice. The administration of some Chinese herbs stimulates, suppresses or regulates the activity of immune system, thus protecting the respiratory tract or relieving infections of pathogens. Many herbs have remarkable antiviral effects, therefore they are used as substitutes of antimicrobial drugs. Based on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, mix-using herbs provide a synergistic benefit on preventing and healing respiratory tract infections. Many commercial herbal medicines containing one or more compounds have been successfully applied to prevent and treat viral infections of respiratory tract clinically.

Conclusions

Traditional Chinese herbs could directly inhibit pathogens infecting respiratory tract, or coordinate the activity of immune system to avoid or relieve infections. With the emergence of antidrug pathogens or new variants, Chinese herbs give strong evidence to protect human health.
Epstein-Barr virus-encoded RNAs as a survival predictor in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Ke Kengjian , Wang Haiyun , Fu Sha , Zhang Zichen , Duan Liping , Liu Dabo , Ye Jin
Published: January 2024

Background

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is one of the most important factors of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) endemic areas. Transcription of EBV-encoded non-polyadenylated RNAs (EBERs) are presented in most of NPC tumors. Exploring EBERs as a prognostic marker for NPC might further be informative about the biology and the progression of the disease. The aim of this study was to analyze the role of EBV latency in the clinical management of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), by detecting EBERs.

Methods

RNA in situ hybridization (ISH) for detecting EBERs was carried out on 908 NPC tumor tissues. Overall survival (OS) curves were analyzed with the Kaplan-Meier method and the Cox proportional-hazards regression models.

Results

The median follow-up time was 70 months (1-120 months). Eight hundred and sixteen (89.9%) from a total of 908 consecutive NPC cases were found to be EBV-EBER positive. EBER-ISH staining revealed nuclear localization in NPC cells. In the Kaplan-Meier analysis for OS, high EBER expression levels in NPC patients were statistically significant positive prognostic factors for survival (log-rank, P=0.022), especially in adults aged 17-40 years (P=0.023) and in those with advanced stage disease (log-rank, P=0.002). Cox proportional-hazards regression model analysis showed that the EBER expression level was an independent risk factor for OS (hazard ratio 0.724, P=0.005).

Conclusions

EBERs were frequently detected in NPC tumor tissues, and high-level EBER expression correlated with good prognosis in NPC patients, especially in adult patients and in those with advanced stage disease. EBER may serve as a potential prognostic predictor in NPC.
Current attitudes toward organ donation after cardiac death in northwest China
Authors: Pan Xiaoming , Liu Linjuan , Xiang Heli , Ding Chenguang , Ren Li , Xue Wujun
Published: January 2024

Background

People's attitude toward organ donation after cardiac death (DCD) has not come to an agreement in different countries and regions. Influenced by the local culture in China for thousands of years, the general public has different ideas about this issue. The purpose of this study was to investigate the current attitudes trend and characteristics of transplantation with organs donated after cardiac death in northwest China.

Methods

This largest single-center cohort study was performed by an interview or by telephone using a questionnaire. The family members of potential DCD donors were recruited from the First Affiliated Hospital, medical college of Xi'an Jiaotong University located in a metropolitan area of northwest China. The 12-item attitude questionnaire was specifically developed from the literature review with coordinator, physician, and donor's family feedback. The participants were asked to rate the queries on a 5-point Likert intensity scale.

Results

The 174 participants included 56 (32.2%) women and 118 (67.8%) men. Most people were aged between 41 and 50 years (n=63, 36.2%), 31 and 40 years (n=59, 33.9%), and less than 30 years (n=36, 20.7%). The top five attitudes of participants were the best person to suggest organ donation to a family was ranked as the DCD coordinator of Red Cross Organization (RCO, n=160, 92%), donor is a hero (n=143, 82.2%), honor to be a donor's family member (n=136, 78.2%), improved relationship with colleagues (n=124, 71.3%), and with recipient after donation (n=123, 70.7%). The best person to suggest organ donation to a family was ranked as the coordinator of RCO (n=160, 92%), doctor unrelated to transplantation (n=104, 59.8%), social worker (n=36, 20.7%), and doctor related to transplantation (n=25, 14.4%). The top two reasons for non-consent to donation were that the family insisted on intact body after patient death and did not want to have surgery again (n=51, 41.5%), and feared that they would be misunderstood by neighbors, relatives, and friends about donation (n=28, 22.8%).

Conclusions

This study revealed initial attitudes toward DCD in China. Some data afford insight into the decision-making procedure. The concerns of potential DCD donors and their families may help professionals provide better interventions in the future.
Ezrin promotes invasion and migration of the MG63 osteosarcoma cell
Authors: Zhang Jian , Zuo Jianhong , Lei Mingsheng , Wu Song , Zang Xiaofang , Zhang Chaoyue
Published: January 2024

Background

Evidence shows that ezrin plays an important role in the development of some human malignancies. But the mechanism by which ezrin may affect tumor cell invasion and metastasis remains unclear.

Methods

In this study, the expression of ezrin was verified in osteosarcoma (OS) cells and tissues by comparison with normal bone cells and tissues using Western blotting. OS-MG63 were transfected with pcDNA3.1-ezrin or pGenesil-1/shRNA-ezrin and the stably transfected cells were selected with G418 to yield the ezrin cell line. The OS-MG63 tumor cells were delivered by tail vein to female BALB/c to develop pulmonary metastasis model in vivo. Ezrin was identified as a direct target of miR-183 via a luciferase reporter carrying the 3′-untranslated region of ezrin. Migration assays and invasion assays were done with the transwells. Signaling pathway was studied by Western blotting and/or inhibitor.

Results

Ectopic overexpression of ezrin in OS cell line MG63 promoted tumor cell invasion and migration. Consistent with this, knockdown of ezrin inhibited tumor cell invasion and migration. Similar results were obtained in the experimental metastasis model in vivo. We identified ezrin as a direct target of miR-183. What is more, ectopic expression of ezrin could induce the expression of N-cadherin and enhance the activity of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling.

Conclusion

Collectively, these results suggest that ezrin as a direct target of miR-183 promotes the aggressiveness of OS via increased N-cadherin and activating ERK signaling.
Efficacy and safety of first-line chemotherapy plus bevacizumab in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer: a meta-analysis
Authors: Ming Wang , Xiaofeng Zheng , Xiaojiao Ruan , Bailiang Ye , Long Cai , Feizhuan Lin , Jinfu Tu , Feizhao Jiang , Shaotang Li
Published: January 2024

Background

What benefits and toxicities patients acquire from the use of bevacizumab combined with first-line chemotherapy remains controversial. This study was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of first-line chemotherapy plus bevacizumab in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC).

Methods

Several databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library, were searched up to April 30, 2013. Eligible studies were only randomized, controlled trials (RCTs) with a direct comparison between mCRC patients treated with and without bevacizumab. Overall risk ratio (RR), hazard ratio (HR), odds ratio (OR), and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated employing fixed or random-effects models depending on the heterogeneity of the included trials.

Results

Six RCTs, including 1582 patients in chemotherapy plus bevacizumab group and 1484 patients in chemotherapy-alone group, were included. Overall, the addition of bevacizumab to first-line chemotherapy increased overall response rate (ORR) by 4.5%, prolonged both progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), and increased the rate of total Grades 3 or 4 adverse events (G3/4AEs) by 6.9%. Significant differences were found in ORR (RR=1.22 (95% CI 1.01-1.46), P=0.03), PFS (HR=0.60 (95% CI 0.47-0.77), P<0.0001), OS (HR=0.83 (95% CI 0.70-0.97), P=0.02), and any G3/4AEs (OR=1.56 (95% CI 1.29-1.89), P<0.00001).

Conclusion

Bevacizumab is a valuable addition to the current first-line chemotherapy regimens used in patients with mCRC, because of conferring a significant improvement in ORR, PFS, and OS, even though it increased adverse events.
Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging findings in children with myocarditis
Authors: Liu Guiying , Yang Xi , Su Ying , Xu Jimin , Wen Zhaoying
Published: January 2024

Background

Myocarditis is a common, potentially life-threatening disease that presents a wide rang of symptoms in children, as an important underlying etiology of other myocardial diseases such as dilated and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. The incidence of nonfatal myocarditis is probably greater than that of the one actually diagnosed, which is the result of the challenges of establishing the diagnosis in standard clinical settings. Currently, no single clinical or imaging finding confirms the diagnosis of myocarditis with absolute certainty. Historically, clinical exam, electrocardiogram (ECG), serology and echocardiography had an unsatisfactory diagnostic accuracy in myocarditis. Endomyocardial biopsy remains as a widely accepted standard, but may not be suitable for every patient, especially for those with less severe disease. Our aim was to find the changes in cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging of children with myocarditis diagnosed by clinical criteria.

Methods

We studied 25 children (18 male, 7 female; aged from 5–17 years) with diagnosed myocarditis by clinical criteria. CMR included function analyses, T2-weighted imaging, T1-weighted imaging before and after i.v. gadolinium injection (early gadolinium enhancement (EGE) and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE)).

Results

The T2 ratio was elevated in 21 children (84%, 11 in anterolateral (44%), 5 in inferolateral (20%), and 5 in septum (20%)), EGE was present in 9 children (36%, 3 in anterolateral (12%), 4 in inferolateral (20%), and 2 in septum (8%)), and LGE was present in 5 children (20%, 2 in anterolateral (8%), 1 in inferolateral (4%), 1 in septum (4%), and 1 in midwall of left ventricular (LV) wall). In 9 children (36%), two (or more) out of three sequences (T2, EGE, LGE) were abnormal.

Conclusions

The CMR findings in children with clinically diagnosed myocarditis vary within the groups, including regional or global myocardial signal increase in T2-weighted images, EGE and LGE in T1-weighted images. The T2 ratio elevation is the most common CMR finding. Children with mild cardiac symptoms may also appear serious myocardial injuries.
Bortezomib improves progression-free survival in multiple myeloma patients overexpressing preferentially expressed antigen of melanoma
Authors: Qin Yazhen , Lu Jin , Bao Li , Zhu Honghu , Li Jinlan , Li Lingdi , Lai Yueyun , Shi Hongxia , Wang Yazhe , Liu Yanrong , Jiang Bin , Huang Xiaojun
Published: January 2024

Background

Significant efforts have been made to identify factors that differentiate patients treated with novel therapies, such as bortezomib in multiple myeloma (MM). The exact expression pattern and prognostic value of the cancer/testis antigen preferentially expressed antigen of melanoma (PRAME) in MM are unknown and were explored in this study.

Methods

The transcript level of PRAME was detected in bone marrow specimens from 100 newly diagnosed MM patients using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and the prognostic value of PRAME was determined through retrospective survival analysis. PRAME expression higher than the upper limit of normal bone marrow was defined as PRAME overexpression or PRAME (+).

Results

Sixty-two patients (62.0%) overexpressed PRAME. PRAME overexpression showed no prognostic significance to either overall survival (n=100) or progression-free survival (PFS, n=96, all P >0.05) of patients. The patients were also categorized according to regimens with or without bortezomib. PRAME overexpression tended to be associated with a lower two-year PFS rate in patients treated with non-bortezomib-containing regimens (53.5% vs. 76.9%, P=0.071). By contrast, it was not associated with the two-year PFS rate in patients with bortezomib-containing regimens (77.5% vs. 63.9%, P >0.05). When the patients were categorized into PRAME (+) and PRAME (-) groups, treatment with bortezomib-containing regimens predicted a higher two-year PFS rate in PRAME (+) patients (77.5% vs. 53.5%, P=0.027) but showed no significant effect on two-year PFS rate in PRAME (-) patients (63.9% vs. 76.9%, P >0.05).

Conclusion

PRAME overexpression might be an adverse prognostic factor of PFS in MM patients treated with non-bortezomib-containing regimens. Bortezomib improves PFS in patients overexpressing PRAME.
Validation of glaucoma-like features in the rat episcleral vein cauterization model
Authors: Bai Yujing , Zhu Yingting , Chen Qin , Xu Jing , Sarunic Marinko V. , Saragovi Uri H. , Zhuo Yehong
Published: January 2024

Background

Glaucoma, an irreversible optic nerve neuropathy, always results in blindness. This study aimed to evaluate glaucoma-like features in the rat episcleral vein cauterization (EVC) model by multiple in vivo and in vitro evidences.

Methods

Wistar rat was used in this study. The elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) was induced by cauterization of three episcleral veins. IOP was monitored with Tono-Pen XL tonometer. Time-dependent changes to the neuronal retinal layers were quantified by Fourier domain-optical coherence tomography. The function of retina was evaluated by electroretinogram (ERG). Survival of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) was quantified by retrograde labeling. Histology study was performed with retinal sections stained with hematoxylin-eosin, glial fibrillary acidic protein, and neuronal nuclear antigen. Retina and aqueous humor protein were extracted and cytotoxic protein tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and alpha-2 macroglobulin (α2m) were measured with Western blotting.

Results

EVC is a relatively facile intervention, with low failure rates (<5%). After surgical intervention, chronic mild IOP elevation (about 1.6-fold over normal, P <0.05) was induced for at least 6 weeks without requiring a second intervention. High IOP causes chronic and progressive loss of RGCs (averaging about 4% per week), progressive thinning of neuronal retinal layers (3-5 μm per week), and reduction of a- and b-wave in ERG. EVC method can also induce glial cell activation and alterations of inflammation proteins, such as TNF-α and α2m.

Conclusion

EVC method can establish a robust, reliable, economic and highly reproducible glaucomatous animal model.
Evaluation of CT findings for the differentiation of benign from malignant primary retroperitoneal tumors
Authors: Zhu Zheng , Zhao Xinming , Zhao Yanfeng , Yang Lei , Zhao Jing , Dai Jingrui , Zhou Chunwu
Published: January 2024

Background

Benign and malignant primary retroperitoneal tumors (RT) have different pathological manifestations, and overlapping imaging characteristics. This study aimed to evaluate the value of computed tomography (CT) for differentiating benign from malignant RT.

Methods

One hundred and ninety-four patients with clinical and radiographic data were evaluated retrospectively following surgical resection of primary RT. There were 38.1% (n=74) benign lesions and 61.9% (n=120) malignant lesions. Categorical variables were tested with a chi-square test or Fisher's exact test for the diagnostic indexes and sensitivity and specificity of CT characteristics.

Results

In univariate analysis, the differences in ill-defined margins, irregular surfaces, long diameter >6.75 cm, short diameter >6.25 cm, and solid or mixed texture had statistical significance; the sensitivity and specificity were 44.2% and 91.9%, 70.0% and 62.2%, 68.8% and 60.7%, 59.7% and 74.2%, 87.5% and 35.1%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, a combination of all the above indexes was the best model for differentiating malignant tumors, resulting in the most accurate diagnosis of malignancies with a sensitivity of 77.2% and a specificity of 81.1% (P<0.0001) when the score was 4. The differences in other findings including CT attenuation, number, and calcification had no statistical significance. The unique characteristics included the spotted enhancement (mottled high density) in schwannoma (Ρ<0.0001), adipose tissue in liposarcoma (P<0.0001) and paravertebral location in neurogenic tumors (P<0.0001).

Conclusions

More accurate differential diagnosis of primary RT can be made through comprehensive analysis of the combined diagnostic indexes of CT. Some specific characteristics of CT can assist in preoperative planning.
New techniques to improve classical corneal collagen cross-linking treatment
Authors: Na Li , Xiujun Peng , Zhengjun Fan , Yu Xia , Tengfei Wu
Published: January 2024

Objective

The aim of this review is to comprehensively and unbiasedly summarize the improvements in the techniques for classical corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) by covering the reasons for this improvement, measure, and effect to approach the future direction of the CXL.

Data sources

All articles used in this review were mainly retrieved from the PubMed database.

Study selection

Original articles and reviews were selected if they were related to the improvement in the technique of classical CXL. Data were mainly extracted from 94 articles, which are listed in the reference section of this review.

Results

This innovative research involves every step such as instrument preparation, epithelial management, riboflavin instillation, and UVA irradiation. These clinical and experimental results seem promising.

Conclusions

CXL treatment is the only recent promising method for preventing the progress of keratoconus. The limitations and potential complications that accompany classical CXL such as corneal thickness limitations, ultraviolet-A (UVA) light injury, and the impact of de-epithelialization encourage people to research new improvements in techniques.

While this research needs to be further investigated, we hope our review can help related researchers and patients.
Photoprotective effect of the N-terminal 5-mer peptide analog P165 of amyloid precursor protein in human dermal fibroblasts
Authors: Wang Ying , Chen Hui , Lin Yuying , Wang Wen , Wang Rong , Lian Shi , Zhu Wei
Published: January 2024

Background

We showed in our previous study that the N-terminal 17-mer peptide of amyloid precursor protein (APP17-mer peptide), an active peptide segment with trophic and antioxidative effects, protects skin fibroblasts against ultraviolet (UV) damage and downregulates matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1) expression. The aim of the current study was to explore the protective effects of P165, the N-terminal 5-mer peptide analog of amyloid precursor protein that is resistant to enzymolysis, on UVA-induced damage in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs).

Methods

HDFs were cultured in Dulbecco’s modified Eagle’s medium without and with P165 (concentrations were 1, 10, and 100 μmol/L). Then, 15 J/cm2 UVA irradiation was used to obtain the UV-irradiated model. Cell proliferation was analyzed using MTT kit. The collagen type I and MMP-1 contents in cell lysate were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Fluorometric assays were performed to detect the formation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cells.

Results

P165 significantly protected the HDFs against UVA-induced cytotoxicity. Compared with the UVA-irradiated control, 1, 10, and 100 μmol/L P165 elevated cell proliferation by 14.98% (P<0.05), 17.52% (P<0.01) and 28.34% (P<0.001), respectively. Simultaneously, 10 and 100 μmol/L P165 increased collagen type I content (both P<0.05). Moreover, P165 treatment (all concentrations) also markedly suppressed the UVA-induced MMP-1 expression (all P<0.001). P165 at 1, 10, and 100 μmol/L also reduced UVA-induced ROS generation by 11.27%, 13.69% (both P<0.05), and 25.48% (P<0.001), respectively.

Conclusions

P165 could protect the HDFs against UVA-induced photodamage, including cytotoxicity, and MMP-1 generation. Furthermore, it also increased the collagen type I content in the cells. The inhibitory effect on intracellular ROS generation might be involved in these photoprotective effects. Thus, P165 may be a useful candidate in the prevention and treatment of skin photoaging.
Relationship of Helicobacter pylori eradication with gastric cancer and gastric mucosal histological changes: a 10-year follow-up study
Authors: Liya Zhou , Sanren Lin , Shigang Ding , Xuebiao Huang , Zhu Jin , Rongli Cui , Lingmei Meng , Yuan Li , Li Zhang , Changji Guo , Yan Xue , Xiu'e Yan , Jing Zhang
Published: January 2024

Background

Helicobacter pylori (Hp) is a common and potentially curable cause of gastric mucosa lesion. This study investigated the relationship of Hp infection with histological changes in gastric mucosa and gastric cancer in Hp-positive patients compared with Hp-eradication patients followed up for ten years.

Methods

From an initial group of 1 006 adults, 552 Hp-positive subjects were randomly assigned to a treatment group (T; n =276) or a placebo group (P; n =276). In the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel trial, T group subjects received oral doses of omeprazole, amoxicillin and clarithromycin for 1 week; those in the P group received a placebo. One month after treatment ended, a 13C urea breath test was performed, and Hp was undetectable in 88.89% of the T group. All subjects were followed at 1, 5, 8, and 10 years after treatment, with endoscopy and biopsies for histological examination.

Results

Gastric mucosa inflammation was significantly milder in the T group than that in the P group one year after Hp eradication and this persisted for 10 years. Glandular atrophy and intestinal metaplasia (IM) had deteriorated in both groups during ten years. However, the increased score of glandular atrophy at both the gastric antrum and corpus, and IM only at the gastric antrum, in the P group was more obvious than that in the T group. During the 10 years, 9 patients were diagnosed with gastric cancer (2 in the T group; 7 in the P group; P=0.176). When mucosal atrophy was absent at the gastric antrum and corpus when entering the study, the incidence of gastric cancer in the P group (n=6) was much higher than that in the T group (n =0, P=0.013).

Conclusions

Hp eradication may significantly diminish and help halt progression of gastric mucosal inflammation and delay the development of IM and atrophy gastritis. Hp eradication is helpful for reducing the risk for gastric cancer, especially in the early stage of Hp infection.
Twelve years' experience and clinical results of using the radial artery for coronary revascularization
Authors: Cheng Zhaoyun , Zhao Ziniu , Quan Xiaoqiang , Wang Sheng , Zhao Jian , Sun Junjie , Hu Junlong , Gao Chuanyu , Song Yongping
Published: January 2024

Background

The radial artery (RA) is becoming a popular conduit for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), yet data reporting the long-term results are rare. We reported our clinical, angiographic and intravascular ultrasound findings on 93 patients who had the RA used as part of the conduit for the CABG procedures during a 12-year period from June 2001 to June 2013.

Methods

A total of 118 radial artery conduits were harvested in 87 males and 6 females, age from 28 to 66 (mean 49.9) years. An “intra-operative Allen's test” was developed to safeguard blood supply to the arm and hand. A “double-clip & scissors-cut” technique was carried out to minimize the thermal injury to the radial artery from the diathermy. The left radial artery was used in 67 patients, the right in one, and bilateral radial arteries in 25 patients. One hundred and twenty-two out of 272 distal anastomoses (44.9%) were constructed with radial arteries, with an average of 2.9 grafts per patient (range 2-6).

Results

Follow-up angiography and intravascular ultrasound study at 3-139 postoperative months (mean 59 months) revealed a 93.1% RA patency. String sign occurred in one patient in whom the RA was directed to a big right coronary artery with a stenosis of around 50%. The patency for the internal mammary artery was 96.4%.

Conclusions

The RA is an excellent conduit that broadens the options for total arterial CABG surgery. Good graft patency could be achieved through careful harvesting techniques and choice of proper target coronary vessels.
A prospective comparative study on neovascular glaucoma and non-neovascular refractory glaucoma following Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation
Authors: Zheng Li , Minwen Zhou , Wei Wang , Wenbin Huang , Shida Chen , Xingyi Li , Xinbo Gao , Xiulan Zhang
Published: January 2024

Background

Neovascular glaucoma is a refractory disease, and difficult to manage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation (AGVI) in neovascular glaucoma (NVG) and non-NVG patients.

Methods

This prospective, non-randomized study included 55 eyes of 55 patients with refractory glaucoma; 27 had NVG (NVG group) and 28 had non-NVG (non-NVG group). All of the patients underwent AGVI. The NVG group was adjunctively injected with intravitreal ranibizumab/bevacizumab (IVR/IVB) before AGVI. Intraocular pressure (IOP) was the primary outcome measure in this study. Surgical success rate, number of antiglaucoma medications used, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and postoperative complications were analyzed between the groups.

Results

All of the patients completed the study (follow-up of 12 months). Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis indicated that the qualified success rates in the NVG and non-NVG groups at 12 months were 70.5% and 92.9%, respectively; this difference was significant (P=0.036). The complete success rates in the NVG and non-NVG groups at 12 months were 66.7% and 89.3%, respectively (P=0.049). Compared with preoperative examinations, the postoperative mean IOP and use of medications were significantly lower at all follow-up time points in both groups (allP<0.05). There were significant differences in BCVA between the two groups at the 12-month follow-up (χ2=9.86,P=0.020). Cox proportional hazards regression showed NVG as a risk factor for surgical failure (RR=15.08,P=0.033). Postoperative complications were similar between the two groups.

Conclusions

AGVI is a safe and effective procedure in refractory glaucoma, but the success rate of surgery was related to the type of refractory glaucoma. The complete and qualified success rates of NVG patient adjunctive anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatment are still lower than those of non-NVG patients.
Transradial versus transfemoral percutaneous coronary intervention in elderly patients: a systematic overview and meta-analysis
Authors: He Peiyuan , Yang Yuejin , Hu Fenghuan
Published: January 2024

Background

Transradial approach (TRA) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has been wildly applied among unselected patients. However, only very few small studies have compared the outcomes between TRA and transfemoral approach (TFA) in elderly patients. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety between TRA and TFA in elderly patients by a pooled analysis.

Methods

Studies that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included. Statistical analysis was performed using the Review Manager 5.0.0 developed and maintained by the Cochrane Collaboration and a random-effects model was used to better account for the differences among the sub-studies. The primary endpoint was defined as short-term mortality, and other endpoints included major adverse cardiovascular events, major bleeding events, procedure success, vascular complications and hospital stay.

Results

Two thousand one hundred and eighty-eight patients from 11 studies were finally included. A non-significant trend toward a lower rate of short-term death was found in favor of TRA (odds ratio (OR): 0.56, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.27–1.16). The incidence rates of vascular complications (OR 0.25, 95% CI: 0.14–0.46) and major bleeding events (OR: 0.31, 95% CI: 0.18–0.55) were greatly reduced by TRA compared with TFA. No significant difference was detected in the occurrence rate of major adverse cardiovascular events (OR: 0.77, 95% CI: 0.45–1.30), but the rate of procedure success was significantly improved by TRA (OR: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.18–2.94). In addition, the total hospital stay was also significantly reduced by TRA.

Conclusions

TRA showed greater efficacy and safety compared with TFA in elderly patients. It should be recommend as routine practice for elderly patients undergoing PCI in TRA capable hospitals.
Characterization and influencing factors of visit-to-visit blood pressure variability of the population in a northern Chinese industrial city
Authors: Cao Huijun , Wu Shouling , Li Shuqiang , Zhao Haiyan , Ruan Chunyu , Wu Yuntao , Xing Aijun , Li Kuibao , Chen Jin , Yang Xinchun , Cai Jun
Published: January 2024

Background

Blood pressure variability (BPV) is a reliable prognostic factor for cardiovascular events. Currently there is a worldwide lack of large sample size studies in visit-to-visit BPV. Based on the Kailuan Study, we analyzed the visit-to-visit BPV of patients to investigate the range and influencing factors of BPV.

Methods

In 11 hospitals in the Kailuan Company, 4 441 patients received routine health checkups. Physical examination measured blood pressure (BP), body height, body weight, and waist circumference, and body mass index was calculated. Blood samples were analyzed for plasma total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), fasting blood glucose (FBG), and high-sensitivity c-reactive protein (hs-CRP).

Results

The effect of gender on systolic BPV was investigated. The average systolic BPV was 10.35 mmHg (1 mmHg= 0.133 kPa) overall, 10.54 mmHg in males and 10.06 mmHg in females. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis revealed that the age (RR=1.022), systolic BP (SBP, RR=1.007), LDL-C (RR=1.098), and history of hypertension (RR=1.273) were significant risk factors for higher systolic BPV. We found that aging (RR=1.022), increased SBP (RR=1.007), and a history of hypertension (RR=1.394) were determinants of systolic BPV in males. The risk factors for systolic BPV of females were aging (RR=1.017), increased SBP (RR=1.009), increased LDL (RR=1.136), and increased TG (RR= 1.157).

Conclusion

Our findings indicated that the systolic BPV is closely associated with age, SBP and history of hypertension.
Cancer immunoinformatics: a new assistant tool for malignant disease research
Authors: Wang Weijia , Zhang Rupeng , Liang Han , Zhang Hui , Li Fangxuan , Yu Jinpu , Li Hui , Ren Xiubao
Published: January 2024

Objective

To introduce the recent developments in cancer immunoinformatics with an emphasis on the latest trends and future direction.

Data sources

All related articles in this review were searched from PubMed published in English from 1992 to 2013. The search terms were cancer, immunoinformatics, immunological databases, and computational vaccinology.

Study selection

Original articles and reviews those were related to application of cancer immunoinformatics about tumor basic and clinical research were selected.

Results

Cancer immunoinformatics has been widely researched and applied in a series of fields of cancer research, including computational tools for cancer, cancer immunological databases, computational vaccinology, and cancer diagnostic workflows. Furthermore, the improvement of its theory and technology brings an enlightening insight into understanding and researching cancer and helps expound more deep and complete mechanisms of tumorigenesis and progression.

Conclusion

Cancer immunoinformatics provides promising methods and novel strategies for the discovery and development of tumor basic and clinical research.