bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrogen sulfide donor regulates alveolar epithelial cell apoptosis in rats with acute lung injury
Authors: LIU Wen-li , LIU Zhi-wei , LI Tian-shui , WANG Cong , ZHAO Bin
Published: January 2024

Background

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a common syndrome associated with high morbidity and mortality in emergency medicine. Cell apoptosis plays a key role in the pathogenesis of ALI. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) plays a protective role during acute lung injury. We designed this study to examine the role of H2S in the lung alveolar epithelial cell apoptosis in rats with ALI.

Methods

Sixty-nine male Sprague Dawley rats were used. ALI was induced by intra-tail vein injection of oleic acid (OA). NaHS solution was injected intraperitonally 30 minutes before OA injection as the NaHS pretreatment group. Single sodium hydrosulfide pretreatment group and control group were designed. Index of quantitative assessment (IQA), wet/dry weight (W/D) ratio and the percentage of polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) cells in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were determined. H2S level in lung tissue was measured by a sensitive sulphur electrode. Apoptosis was evaluated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining and Fas protein was measured by immunohistochemical staining.

Results

The level of endogenous H2S in lung tissue decreased with the development of ALI induced by OA injection. Apoptosis and Fas protein in alveolar epithelial cells increased in the ALI of rats but NaHS lessened apoptosis and Fas protein expression in alveolar epithelial cells of rats with ALI.

Conclusion

Endogenous H2S protects rats from oleic acid-induced ALI, probably by inhibiting cell apoptosis.
Evaluation of an HIV-related behavior change project for female sex workers in Central China
Authors: WU Ding-feng , HU Jun , ZHANG Zhi-ying , WANG Lin
Published: January 2024

Background

As female sex workers (FSWs) were becoming the driving force behind the HIV epidemic in Central China, a project to promote condom use by FSWs was implemented from 2004 to 2009. In this study, we discussed the evaluation of the project, the factors associated with condom use among FSWs within the Chinese context, and proposed suggestions for future interventions for FSWs in China.

Methods

Two surveys using structured questionnaires were conducted in 2004 and 2009. Data collected from the surveys were analyzed and guided by a behavior change framework. We reviewed relevant articles to supplement the information that was not able to be obtained from the surveys.

Results

In general, the HIV prevalence among FSWs remained low (less than 1%) in the 5 years. With a high coverage of interventions for all FSWs in Central China, the project yielded better outcomes than the national average over the same time period. The awareness about HIV and condom use grew dramatically during the project period. The four factors/ determinants that influence the behavior of FSWs using condoms are population characteristics, opportunity, ability, and motivation. Statistical model shows that the significant variables for using a condom are age, availability of services, HIV-related knowledge, and intention.

Conclusions

With a high coverage of interventions for FSWs, the project achieved its goals. The differences among workplaces of FSWs may serve as a symbol of their socioeconomic status, patterns of condom use, and therefore risks of acquiring HIV.
Prognostic value of clinical characteristics and immunophenotypic biomarkers in 115 patients with primary central nervous system lymphoma
Authors: CHEN Bo-bin , XU Xiao-ping , SHEN Lin , HAN Tian-jie , LIN Zhi-guang , CHEN Zi , KANG Hui , HUANG Bo , LIN Guo-wei
Published: January 2024

Background

Clinical outcome in patients with primary central nervous lymphoma (PCNSL) is variable and poorly predictable. This study investigated the association of clinical features and immune markers with prognosis of patients with PCNSL.

Methods

One hundred and fifteen newly diagnosed PCNSL patients at the study institution were considered eligible for this study. Clinical characteristics and biochemical assay data were collected. Immunohistochemical staining of Cyclin D3, Cyclin E, Foxp1, and LMO2 were performed. All cases were followed-up regularly.

Results

The common sites of involvement were frontal lobe (54.8%) and thalamus (16.5%). Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma composed of 96.5% of the cases. The median overall survival was 22 (4-41) months, and the 5-year survival rate was 22.8%. Age >65 years, serum globulin >40 g/L, large size of tumor, lymphocyte count ≥1×109/L, and expression of Cyclin D3 and Cyclin E were associated with poor prognosis of PCNSL. Expressions of Foxp1, LMO2, and CD44 were not related to the survival. Expression of Cyclin E, large tumor size, and high serum globulin were independent prognostic factors for PCNSL.

Conclusions

PCNSL prognosis is relatively poor. Age, high tumor burden, higher lymphocyte count, expression of Cyclin D3, and Cyclin E are inferior prognostic factors for PCNSL.
Retinol dehydrogenase, RDH1l, is essential for the heart development and cardiac performance in zebrafish
Authors: WANG Wei , ZHANG Li-feng , GUI Yong-hao , SONG Hou-yan
Published: January 2024

Background

Retinoic acid (RA) is a potent signaling molecule that plays pleiotropic roles in patterning, morphogenesis, and organogenesis during embryonic development. The synthesis from retinol (vitamin A) to retinoic acid requires two sequential oxidative steps. The first step involves the oxidation of retinol to retinal through the action of retinol dehydrogenases. Retinol dehydrogenases1l (RDH1l) is a novel zebrafish retinol dehydrogenase. Herein we investigated the role of zebrafish RDH1l in heart development and cardiac performance in detail.

Methods

RDH1l specific morpholino was used to reduce the function of RDH1l in zebrafish. The gene expressions were observed by using whole mount in situ hybridization. Heart rates were observed and recorded under the microscope from 24 to 72 hours post fertilization (hpf). The cardiac performance was analyzed by measuring ventricular shortening fraction (VSF).

Results

The knock-down of RDH1l led to abnormal neural crest cells migration and reduced numbers of neural crest cells in RDH1l morphant embryos. The reduced numbers of cardiac neural crest cells also can be seen in RDH1l morphant embryos. Furthermore, the morpholino-mediated knock-down of RDH1l resulted in the abnormal heart loop. The left-right determining genes expression pattern was altered in RDH1l morphant embryos. The impaired cardiac performance was observed in RDH1l morphant embryos. Taken together, these data demonstrate that RDH1l is essential for the heart development and cardiac performance in zebrafish.

Conclusions

RDH1l plays a important role in the neural crest cells development, and then ultimately affects the heart loop and cardiac performance. These results show for the first time that an enzyme involved in the retinol to retinaldehyde conversion participate in the heart development and cardiac performance in zebrafish.
Magnetic resonance imaging: a valuable method for diagnosing chronic lumbago caused by lumbar muscle strain and monitoring healing process
Authors: OUYANG Lin , JIA Qian-xin , XIAO Yu-hui , KE Lai-shun , HE Ping
Published: January 2024

Background

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most sensitive technique for evaluating the healing process and should be performed before the patients return to their exercise routines. The aim of this research was to diagnose chronic lumbago associated with lumbar muscle strain and to monitor healing process by MRI.

Methods

Sixty-five symptomatic cases of chronic lumbago caused by lumbar muscle strain were collected from March 2009 to October 2011. MRI was used to examine, diagnose and monitor the healing process. The control group included 65 random cases of asymptomatic volunteers. MRI methods included routine sequences of GRE T1WI, TSE T2WI and special sequences of T2-STIR-FS, combined with DWI. We compared the MRI characteristics of symptomatic cases before and after healing and with asymptomatic controls.

Results

The important MRI characteristics of chronic lumbago with lumbar muscle strain included: (1) The low back muscle showed edema. (2) The low back intermuscular spaces showed edema and/or fluid. (3) The low back spaces beside the spinous process showed edema and/or fluid. (4) The low back vertebral articular process fossae or transverse process fossae showed fluid. Of these image characteristics, the intermuscular space edema provided the best diagnostic sensitivity, Se=83%, with YI=0.63, π=74%. The low back muscle edema provided the best diagnostic specificity, Sp=100%, with YI=0.66, π=83%. And the spaces edema beside the spinous process provided the best diangnostic accuracy, π=86%, with YI = 0.71, Se=80%, Sp=91%. The diagnosis accurate could be improved by combining multiple MRI characteristics. The diagnostic accuracy could achieve π=93%, with YI=0.86, Se=100% and Sp=86% when two characteristics were combined. After rehabilitation care, the edema disappeared on the repeated MRI.

Conclusions

MRI may well be a useful diagnostic method for lumbago with lumbar muscle strain. Combining routine sequences with T2-STIR-FS and DWI sequences could demonstrate the pathological changes of lumbar muscle strain and monitor the healing.
Pharmacological interventions for phantom limb pain
Authors: FANG Jun , LIAN Yan-hong , XIE Kang-jie , CAI Shu-nü
Published: January 2024

Objective

To review the mechanisms and current clinical application of pharmacological interventions for phantom limb pain.

Data sources Both Chinese and English language literatures were searched using MEDLINE (1982-2011), Pubmed (1982-2011) and the Index of Chinese Language Literature (1982-2011).

Study selection

Data from published articles about pharmacological management of phantom limb pain in recent domestic and foreign literature were selected.

Data extraction

Data were mainly extracted from 96 articles which are listed in the reference section of this review.

Results

By reviewing the mechanisms and current clinical application of pharmacological interventions for phantom limb pain, including anticonvulsants, antidepressants, local anaesthetics, N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, tramadol, opioids, calcitonin, capsaicin, beta-adrenergic blockers, clonidine, muscle relaxants, and emerging drugs, we examined the efficacy and safety of these medications, outlined the limitations and future directions.

Conclusions

Although there is lack of evidence-based consensus guidelines for the pharmacological management of phantom limb pain, we recommend tricyclic antidepressants, gabapentin, tramadol, opioids, local anaesthetics and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists as the rational options for the treatment of phantom limb pain.
Interaction between maternal 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T and methionine synthase A2756G gene variants to increase the risk of fetal neural tube defects in a Shanxi Han population
Authors: LIU Zhi-zhen , ZHANG Jun-tao , LIU Dan , HAO Yu-hui , CHANG Bing-mei , XIE Jun , LI Pei-zhen
Published: January 2024

Background

The 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) and methionine synthase (MS) are attractive candidates for screening for risk of neural tube defects (NTDs). The aim of the current study was to investigate maternal MTHFR and MS polymorphisms and the interaction between them and their influence on children with NTDs in the Shanxi Province of northern China.

Methods

Fifty-one mothers who previously had children with NTDs constituted the case group and 51 age-matched mothers with children that were unaffected by any birth defects constituted the control group. All subjects were genotyped for MTHFR C677T and MS A2756G polymorphisms. SPSS 11.5 software package was used for all analyses.

Results

There was a significant difference for MTHFR genotype distribution for one site (C677T) between the case and control groups. The T allele frequencies were significantly higher in the case group than in the control group (55.9% vs. 35.3%, P <0.05). A lack of association was observed for the MS A2756G polymorphism. There was an interaction between the maternal MTHFR C677T genotype and MS A2756G genotype.

Conclusion

Genetic interaction between MTHFR and MS genes raises the probability of neural tube defects.
Reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the Scale for Assessment and Rating of Ataxia
Authors: TAN Song , NIU Hui-xia , ZHAO Lu , GAO Yuan , LU Jia-meng , SHI Chang-he , Avinash Chandra , WANG Rui-hao , XU Yu-ming
Published: January 2024

Background

The Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA) was shown to be a reliable and valid measurement for patients with spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA). The Brazilian version and the Japanese version of SARA were favorable for good reliability and validity. This study aimed to translate SARA into Chinese and test its reliability and validity in measurement of cerebellar ataxia.

Methods

SARA was translated into Chinese. A total 39 patients with degeneration cerebellar ataxia were evaluated independently by two neurologists with the Chinese version of SARA. Then the patients were evaluated by one of above neurologists with International Cooperative Ataxia Rating Scale (ICARS). The statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 17.0 for Windows.

Results

The Cronbach's alpha coefficient of the Chinese version of SARA was 0.78, which represents a good internal consistence. The correlation coefficient of the Chinese version of SARA scores between the two evaluators was 0.86, illustrating that the inter-rater reliability of Chinese version of SARA was good. The correlation coefficient between th Chinese version of SARA and ICARS was 0.91, illustrating that the criterion validity of Chinese version of SARA was not bad.

Conclusions

The Chinese version of SARA is reliable and effective for the assessment of degeneration cerebellar ataxia. Compared with ICARS, the evaluation of Chinese version of SARA is more objective, the assessment time is shortened, and the maneuverability is better.
Comparative study of perpendicular versus parallel double plating methods for type C distal humeral fractures
Authors: LAN Xia , ZHANG Li-hai , TAO Sheng , ZHANG Qun , LIANG Xiang-dang , YUAN Bang-tuo , XU Wen-peng , YIN Peng , TANG Pei-fu
Published: January 2024

Background

Double plate osteosynthesis is the standard treatment for intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus. However, there is still controversy concerning dual plate positions in terms of providing optimal stability. The purpose of this retrospective study was to compare the clinical outcomes in patients with type C intra-articular distal humeral fractures using perpendicular and parallel plating methods.

Methods

Between March 2008 and June 2011, a total of 45 patients with type C distal humerus fractures were treated using two different dual plating methods. Of them, 24 patients were treated by perpendicular plating (group I) and 21 patients were treated by parallel plating (group II). The surgical time, blood loss, and union time were compared between the two groups. The flexion-extension arc, the total range of flexion and extension at the end of follow-up were compared between the two groups. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) was used to determine the elbow functional results.

Results

All patients were followed up. The mean duration of follow-up was 16 months (range 12-25 months) in group I and 15.5 months in group II (range 12-25 months). There were no significant differences in the surgical time, blood loss, and the bone union time between the two groups. In group I, the mean elbow flexion-extension arc was 101° and the mean MEPS was 85 points. The rate of excellent and good results was 87.5%. In group II, the mean flexion-extension arc was 100° and the mean MEPS was 86.1 points. The rate of excellent and good results was 90.5%. There were no significant differences in the MEPS, flexion-extension arc, and the total range of flexion and extension between the two groups.

Conclusions

Perpendicular and parallel plate configurations with the appropriate surgical techniques can provide anatomical reconstruction and stable fixation of type C intra-articular distal humeral fractures and allow early mobilization of the elbow after an operation. The occurrence of post-operative elbow stiffness can be reduced and good outcomes can be obtained.
Intestinal microcirculatory dysfunction and neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis
Authors: ZHANG Hong-yi , WANG Fang , FENG Jie-xiong
Published: January 2024

Objective

Based on the observation that coagulation necrosis occurs in the majority of neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) patients, it is clear that intestinal ischemia is a contributing factor to the pathogenesis of NEC. However, the published studies regarding the role of intestinal ischemia in NEC are controversial. The aim of this paper is to review the current studies regarding intestinal microcirculatory dysfunction and NEC, and try to elucidate the exact role of intestinal microcirculatory dysfunction in NEC.

Data sources

The studies cited in this review were mainly obtained from articles listed in Medline and PubMed. The search terms used were “intestinal microcirculatory dysfunction” and “neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis”.

Study selection

Mainly original milestone articles and critical reviews written by major pioneer investigators in the field were selected.

Results

Immature regulatory control of mesentery circulation makes the neonatal intestinal microvasculature vulnerable. When neonates are subjected to stress, endothelial cell dysfunction occurs and results in vasoconstriction of arterioles, inflammatory cell infiltration and activation in venules, and endothelial barrier disruption in capillaries. The compromised vasculature increases circulation resistance and therefore decreases intestinal perfusion, and may eventually progress to intestinal necrosis.

Conclusion

Intestinal ischemia plays an important role through the whole course of NEC. New therapeutic agents targeting intestinal ischemia, like HB-EGF, are promising therapeutic agents for the treatment of NEC.
Role of adjuvant chemoradiotherapy in treatment of resectable esophageal carcinoma: a meta-analysis
Authors: Zheng Bin , Zheng Wei , Zhu Yong , Lin Xiao-yan , Xu Ben-hua , Chen Chun
Published: January 2024

Background

The effectiveness and influence of surgery followed by adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) on the survival of patients with resectable esophageal carcinoma are still under debate. The outcomes of clinical trials have not been consistent. This study aimed to perform a meta-analysis of eligible published clinical trials to compare CRT with surgery without adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (non-CRT) for resectable esophageal carcinoma.

Methods

Computerized bibliographic and manual searches were undertaken to identify all eligible literature between 1990 and 2012. PubMed, EMBASE, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang databases were our primary sources for published clinical trials. The quality of the methodology and reliability of the data from all of the clinical trials were assessed. All data were extracted by three independent researchers.

Results

Seven studies that included a total of 523 patients were selected. It was found that CRT significantly improved survival. The odds ratio (OR) in comparing CRT and non-CRT groups was 1.75 (95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.17-2.60, P=0.006) for 1-year survival, 2.07 (95% CI: 1.45-2.96, P <0.0001) for 3-year survival, and 2.17 (95% CI: 1.45-3.26, P=0.0002) for 5-year survival. There have been no CRT treatment-related deaths reported in the literature. The incidence of related complications was high in the cases with CRT. Patients treated with CRT had a lower incidence of local-regional cancer recurrence (OR: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.31-0.76, P=0.002) and a similar incidence of distant cancer recurrence (OR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.60-1.34, P=0.60).

Conclusions

It was found that patients with resectable esophageal carcinoma could gain a survival benefit from CRT. However, CRT was associated with a high incidence of related complications.
Mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of allergic rhinitis
Authors: GUO Hong , LIU Ming-ping
Published: January 2024

Objective

To review the major progress in mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the treatment of allergic rhinitis (AR).

Methods

Contents about the treatment mechanism of TCM in the therapy of AR in this article were obtained from 22 original articles and reviews published in Chinese- and English-language journals. All of the references were searched by use of Pubmed (1997-2012).

Results

AR is one of the most common and most serious public health problems in children and young people. Many AR patients were worried about the possible adverse effects of synthetic drugs they were taking. Thus, they seek complementary and alternative therapy, such as TCM. TCM emphasized on the importance of holistic convalescence, not just the disease itself. The favorable safety profile of TCM makes well-acceptance by the general population. In the recent decade, more and more studies of TCM for AR are developed. These studies indicated that the treatment of allergic disorders with TCM therapy including herbal medicines and acupuncture are of safety and efficacy. The mechanism of TCM in the treatment of AR has been discussed. It has been reported that a number of the herbs in the Chinese herbal formulae used in the treatment possess anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory or immune modulation activity. Such function include the inhibition of the release or the activity of mast cell mediators (such as histamine), inhibition the induction of inflammation reaction by chemical agents, and down regulation of serum (immunoglobulin E) IgE levels or the activity of lymphocyte and/or macrophage.

Conclusions

TCM are frequently used concurrently to improve the clinical efficacy. This review is focuses on the description of the actions mechanism of Chinese medicine's approach relevant to the treatment of AR.
Efficacy of postoperative antiviral combined transcatheter arterial chemoembolization therapy in prevention of hepatitis B-related hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence
Authors: YAN Qiang , NI Jun , ZHANG Guo-lei , YAO Xing , YUAN Wen-bin , ZHOU Lin , ZHENG Shu-sen
Published: January 2024

Background

Recurrence of hepatitis B-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after curative resection is the leading factor influencing the prognosis of the disease. Therefore, further improvement of long-term survival may depend on the prevention and treatment of the recurrent tumor. The aim of this research was to investigate the role of antiviral therapy and postoperative transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) in the prevention and treatment of hepatitis B-related HCC recurrence.

Methods

One hundred and twenty patients who underwent curative resection of hepatitis B-related HCC between January 2005 and June 2008 at our hospital were enrolled. Patients were divided into four groups according to the post-operative adjuvant therapy they received, i.e., control, antiviral therapy group, TACE group, and combined group. The disease-free survival (DFS) and the 12-, 24-, 36-month cumulative recurrence rates were studied.

Results

There was no significant difference between isolated postoperative antiviral therapy group and control in terms of disease-free survival (P=0.283), while it was significantly higher in the TACE group compared to control (P=0.019). In all patients, however, viral prophylactic therapy combined with/without TACE brought a favorable result compared to those only with/without TACE (P <0.001). Similarly, no matter combined with or without antiviral treatment, postoperative TACE prolonged DFS (P=0.015). Naturally, a combination of viral prophylactic therapy on the baseline TACE significantly benefited patients' postoperative DFS (P=0.047) and vice verse (P=0.002). The 24-month cumulative recurrence rates of combined group were significantly lower than that of isolated control group and antiviral therapy (P <0.001 and P=0.011 respectively). However, 36-month recurrence rate was significantly different in the control group compared to the TACE group and combined group (P=0.040 and 0.002 respectively); same as the antiviral group compared to the combined group (P=0.034).

Conclusions

Post-operative TACE prevents early recurrence while antiviral therapy prevents late recurrence of HCC. Combination of antiviral therapy and TACE are suggested for prevention in HCC patients with high risk of recurrence.
Effect of aliskiren on arterial stiffness, compared with ramipril in patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension
Authors: GUO Jian-qiang , WANG Hong-yi , SUN Ning-ling
Published: January 2024

Background

Aliskiren is a novel blood pressure-lowering agent acting as an oral direct renin inhibitor. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of aliskiren on arterial stiffness, compared with that of ramipril in mild to moderate essential hypertensive patients.

Methods

Following a two week placebo run-in period, patients with a mean sitting diastolic blood pressure (ms-DBP) ≥95 and <110 mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa), and a mean sitting systolic blood pressure (ms-SBP) <180 mmHg were randomly allocated to treatment with aliskiren (150 mg/d, n=20) or ramipril (5 mg/d, n=20) for eight weeks. Blood pressure, plasma renin activity, and the brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (ba-PWV) were measured before and after eight weeks of treatment.

Results

Eight weeks of treatment significantly decreased systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure in both the aliskiren group and ramipril group. The hypotensive effect did not differ between the two groups. Plasma renin activity decreased after aliskiren treatment and increased after ramipril treatment. There was no significant difference in baseline ba-PWV between the aliskiren and ramipril groups (P=0.892). The ba-PWV was significantly reduced in both the aliskiren group (1535 (1405-1666) vs. 1464 (1360-1506) cm/s) (P<0.01) and the ramipril group (1544 (1433-1673) vs. 1447 (1327-1549) cm/s) (P<0.01). No statistically significant difference was found in the decline of ba-PWV between the two groups (P=0.766).

Conclusions

The current study revealed that aliskiren (150 mg/d) could ameliorate arterial stiffness and its effect was similar to ramipril (5 mg/d) in mild to moderate hypertensive patients, indicating that in addition to lowering blood pressure, aliskiren had beneficial effect on vascular protection.
Recurrence patterns of advanced non-small cell lung cancer treated with gefitinib
Authors: CHEN Min-jiang , ZHONG Wei , ZHANG Li , ZHAO Jing , LI Long-yun , WANG Meng-zhao
Published: January 2024

Background

Gefitinib is widely used in the treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, only a small number of reports have described initial failure sites in patients treated with gefitinib. The aim of this study was to investigate survival, recurrence sites, and treatment after recurrence in these patients.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of all patients with stage III/IV NSCLC treated with gefitinib in Peking Union Medical College Hospital from October 2002 to September 2011. Patient characteristics, initial failure sites, associated clinical factors, and subsequent therapy were included in the analysis of prognostic factors.

Results

A total of 316 patients were identified The median progress free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) times were 238 days and 468 days, respectively. The median survival time after progression was 145 days. The sites of initial failure were lung (62.34%), bone (17.72%), central nerve system (CNS, 16.14%), liver (9.49%), and others (7.19%). Patients with single-site progression or multi-site progression were 81.01% and 18.99%, respectively. Progression-free survival time was associated with lung and bone failure. Additionally, the median survival time after progression was lower in patients with multi-site progression and liver progression. Other initial failure sites displayed no relationship with survival, including CNS failure. Subsequent therapy may affect survival after progression. In patients receiving continuous epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) therapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and re-treatment with EGFR-TKIs, survival time after progression was prolonged compared with the best supportive care.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that patients receiving gefitinib should be closely monitored regarding lung metastasis during follow-up. Liver metastases and multi-site progression were poor prognostic factors. After failure with gefitinib, patients may benefit from radiotherapy, chemotherapy, continuous EGFR-TKI therapy and re-treatment with EGFR-TKIs.
Up-regulation of T-lymphoma and metastasis gene 1 in gastric cancer and its involvement in cell invasion and migration
Authors: SHI Yu-long , MIAO Rui-zheng , CHENG Li , GUO Xiao-bo , YANG Bo , JING Chang-qing , ZHANG Li , JIN Xing , LI Le-ping
Published: January 2024

Background

T-lymphoma and metastasis gene 1 (Tiam1) produces a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GNEF) that regulates guanosine triphosphatase, which transforms guanosine diphosphate to guanosine triphosphate. Recently published data indicate that Tiam1 was associated with gastric cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate biological effects and potential mechanisms of Tiam1 in gastric carcinoma.

Methods

We analyzed the expression of Tiam1 in 114 pair-matched gastric neoplastic and adjacent non-neoplastic tissues by quantitative real-time PCR. We investigated Tiam1 expression and its prognostic value for gastric cancer. Furthermore, the functions of Tiam1 over-expression were analyzed with stable-expression Tiam1 plasmid in human gastric cancer cell lines.

Results

Tiam1 expression was significantly associated with cell differentiation and lymphatic metastasis; expression of Tiam1 mRNA was up-regulated in gastric cancer compared to pair-matched adjacent non-tumor tissues. Analyses of surgical tissue samples and 5-year survival of gastric cancer patients showed that those with strong Tiam1 expression had significantly shorter overall survival time than those with negative Tiam1 expression. Ectopic expression of Tiam1 promoted cell growth, migration and invasion of gastric cancer cells in vitro.

Conclusions

In gastric cancer cells, Tiam1 affects multiple properties associated with acquisition of the metastatic phenotype, and may be a marker of gastric cancer progression and metastasis in a subset of cancer.
Expression of Yes-associated protein 1 gene and protein in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: LI Song-ying , HU Ji-an , WANG Hui-ming
Published: January 2024

Background

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most common malignancies in the oral and maxillofacial region. Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) has been implicated as a bona fide oncogene in solid tumors. We seek to elucidate the role of YAP1 in OSCC tissue.

Methods

We identified YAP1 gene and protein overexpression in 30 OSCC patients and 10 normal oral mucosa tissues by immunohistochemistry, Western blotting and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

Results

In the normal oral mucosa by immunohistochemical staining, YAP1 mainly located in both the cytoplasm and nucleus mainly the nuclei of the basal cells. In OSCC, the expression of YAP1 translocated from the nucleus to cytoplasm; YAP1 being mainly located in both the cytoplasm and nucleus of the adjacent mucosa. The expression of YAP1 gradual increased in normal oral mucosa, tumor adjacent mucosa and low grade, middle grade, high grade OSCC tissue by Western blotting. Significant difference was found between the expressions of the normal oral mucosa and OSCC tissue (P <0.05). The coincidence was detected between the normal oral mucosa and OSCC tissue by RT-PCR (P <0.05).

Conclusions

YAP1 is involved in the carcinogenesis and development of OSCC. There is a transformation between nucleus and cytoplasm.
Role of co-expression of c-Myc, EZH2 and p27 in prognosis of prostate cancer patients after surgery
Authors: LI Ke , CHEN Ming-kun , SITU Jie , HUANG Wen-tao , SU Zu-lan , HE Dan , GAO Xin
Published: January 2024

Background

c-Myc, EZH2 and p27 were defined to modulate the behavior of prostate cancer with pro-tumoral or anti-tumoral effects and had ability in predicting prostate cancer progression, but the research of their co-expression value of prognosis is rarely. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of combining tri-marker together in patients with intermediate-risk prostate cancer after surgery.

Methods

Expression levels of c-Myc, EZH2 and p27 in 129 patients with intermediate-risk prostate cancer were assessed using immunohistochemistry in a semi-quantitative manner. The expression profiles of these three markers were analyzed and investigated for association with biochemical recurrence.

Results

In all, fifty of 129 cases experienced biochemical recurrence during a median follow-up time of 31 months (range, 6-60 months). Of these relapse patients, one case without and 10 cases with any single positive marker were observed; 39 cases were detected with any two or all three positive markers (22 cases with any two and 17 cases with all three positive markers). Survival analysis showed that patients with over-expression of c-Myc or EZH2, and lower expression of p27 manifested significantly higher biochemical recurrence rates. Subsequent multivariate analysis revealed that c-Myc, EZH2 and p27 expression statuses showed potential in predicting relapse, respectively. Notably, combining three markers together as a “composite index” (0 or 1, vs. 2 or 3 positive markers) provided powerful prognostic value (HR 6.57, 95% CI 3.02-14.31, P <0.001). There was a significant difference between the patient subgroups with 0 or 1 and those with 2 or 3 positive markers expression statuses, and tri-marker composite index was an independent risk factor for predicting relapse in patients with intermediate-risk prostate cancer after surgery.

Conclusion

Composite index of c-Myc, EZH2, and p27 can be valued as powerful prognosis parameter for intermediate-risk prostate cancer patients after the surgery, and postoperative adjuvant therapy can be adopted accordingly.
Effects of broth culture filtrate protein of VacA+ Helicobacter pylori on the proliferation and apoptosis of gastric epithelial cells
Authors: ZHAO Yu-qing , GUO Tao , QIAN Jia-ming
Published: January 2024

Background

Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) may lead to chronic inflammation of the stomach epithelium, mucosal atrophy, imbalance of proliferation and apoptosis of epithelial cells; resulting in chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer, gastric cancer, and many other clinical outcomes. Why and how H. pylorus leads to gastric cancer is not clear yet. Through in vitro experiments, this study evaluated the effects of broth culture filtrate protein (BCF-P) from the supernatant of liquid culture media of H. pylori on proliferation and apoptosis of immortalized human gastric epithelial cell lines (GES-1) and gastric cancer cell lines (AGS).

Methods

For the study, GES-1 and AGS cell lines mix with BCF-P and epidermal growth factor (EGF). MTT assay and flow cytometry (FCM) determined the levels of proliferation and apoptosis. Detected expression levels of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and Fas mRNA by reverse transcription (RT)-PCR. Also did analysis of the effects of BCF-P on epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase activity of GES-1 and AGS cells by non-radioactive enzyme-linked assay. The Student’s t test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used for statistical analysis.

Results

BCF-P inhibited proliferation of GES-1 and AGS cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The inhibition rates are respectively 68.7% in AGS and 61.4% in GES-1. With the same dose and time for inhibiting the proliferation, BCF-P failed to induce apoptosis of GES-1 and AGS cells. Effects of BCF-P reduced the expression of Fas mRNA of GES-1 and AGS cells (P <0.05). This is consistent with the effects of EGF. BCF-P reduced the expression of COX-2 mRNA of AGS cells (P <0.05). This is opposite to the effects of EGF (P <0.05). Effects of BCF-P improved more than three times the EGFR tyrosine kinase activity of GES-1 and AGS cells.

Conclusions

BCF-P inhibited the proliferation of AGS and GES-1 cells in vitro, unrelated to apoptosis. Effects of BCF-P on gastric epithelial cells in vitro are not equivalent to that of EGF.
Efficacy and safety of alcohol sclerotherapy involving single-session multiple injections to treat simple renal cysts: a multicenter, prospective, randomized, controlled trial
Authors: LI Yong-zhong , LI Ming-xing , WANG Tao , YANG Li-chuan , FENG Ping , GOU Zhong-ping , YUAN Jia-ying , ZHANG Wei
Published: January 2024

Background

Alcohol has been used for treating simple renal cysts since 1981. Since then, various observational studies have examined the technique, but they differ significantly in the details of the procedures and efficacy measures used. This has made it difficult to assess the safety and efficacy of this technique. We carried out a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided alcohol sclerotherapy involving single-session multiple injections to treat simple renal cysts.

Methods

A total of 144 patients with simple renal cysts were randomly allocated to either the treatment group (ultrasound-guided percutaneous drainage and alcohol sclerotherapy with single-session multiple injections) or control group (ultrasound-guided simple percutaneous drainage). Follow-up CT scans of ablated cysts were collected 3 and 6 months after the procedure. The outcome was considered successful if cyst volume between baseline and 6 months decreased by at least 87.5%.

Results

Intention-to-treat analysis revealed an average volume reduction of 94.2% in the treatment group and 50.8% in the control group (P <0.0001). The percentage of patients achieving successful outcomes was 88.9% (95% CI 77.0%&100.0%) in the treatment group and 22.2% (95% CI 6.54%&37.9%) in the control group (P <0.0001). The corresponding results in the per-protocol analysis were an average volume reduction of 96.4% in the treatment group and 50.8% in the control group (P <0.0001). The percentage of patients achieving a successful outcome was 94.3% (95% CI 85.6%&100.0%) in the treatment group and 22.2% (95% CI 6.54%&37.9%) in the control group (P <0.0001).

Conclusion

Alcohol sclerotherapy involving single-session multiple injections is safe and efficacious in the treatment of renal cysts. (ChiCTR-TRC-10001114, http://www.chictr.org)
EDM1 : a novel point mutation in cartilage oligomeric matrix protein gene in a Chinese family with multiple epiphyseal dysplasia
Authors: Liu Feng-xia , Li Yan-xiang , Zhang Xu-de , Ren Cui-ai , Huang Shang-zhi , Yu Meng-xue
Published: January 2024

Background

Multiple epiphysis dysplasia (MED) is a common skeletal dysplasia with a significant locus heterogeneity. In the majority of clinically defined cases, mutations have been identified in the gene encoding cartilage algometric matrix protein (COMP).

Methods

Five patients were included in the study. Linkage analysis and mutation analysis of the COMP gene were conducted in the patients and their family members.

Results

We have identified a novel mutation in axon 14 of COMP gene in the family.

Conclusions

This mutation produced a severe MED phenotype with marked short stature, early onset osteoarthritis, and remarkable radiographic changes. Our results extended the range of disease-causing mutations in COMP gene and contributed more information about relationship between mutations and phenotype.
An open-labeled, randomized, multicenter phase IIa study of gambogic acid injection for advanced malignant tumors
Authors: CHI Yihebali , ZHAN Xiao-kai , YU Hao , XIE Guang-ru , WANG Zhen-zhong , XIAO Wei , WANG Yong-gang , XIONG Fu-xing , HU Jun-feng , YANG Lin , CUI Cheng-xu , WANG Jin-wan
Published: January 2024

Background

Gambogic acid is a pure active compound isolated from the traditional Chinese medicinal plant gamboge (Garcinia morella Desv.). Based on the preliminary results of a phase I study, this phase IIa study compared the efficacy and safety of different dosage schedules of gambogic acid in patients with advanced malignant tumors.

Methods

Patients with advanced or metastases cancer who had not received any effective routine conventional treatment or who had failed to respond to the existing conventional treatment were randomly assigned to receive either 45 mg/m2 gambogic acid intravenously from Days 1 to 5 of a 2-week cycle (Group A), or 45 mg/m2 every other day for a total of five times during a 2-week cycle (Group B). The primary endpoint was objective response rate (ORR).

Results

Twenty-one patients assigned to Group A and 26 to Group B were included in the final analysis. The ORRs were 14.3% in Group A and 0% in Group B. It was not possible to analyze the significant difference because one of the values was zero. The disease control rates (DCRs) were 76.2% in Group A and 61.5% in Group B (P=0.0456). The observed adverse reactions were mostly Grades I and II, and occurred in most patients after administration of the trial drug. There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two arms.

Conclusions

The preliminary results of this phase IIa exploratory study suggest that gambogic acid has a favorable safety profile when administered at 45 mg/m2. The DCR was greater in patients receiving gambogic acid on Days 1-5 of a 2-week cycle, but the incidence of adverse reactions was similar irrespective of the administration schedule.
Pretreatment neutrophil-to-lymphocyte and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios do not predict survival in patients with cervical cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and radical hysterectomy
Authors: WANG Dan , WU Ming , FENG Feng-zhi , HUANG Hui-fang , YANG Jia-xin , SHEN Keng , XIANG Yang
Published: January 2024

Background

A few inflammatory markers were studied to evaluate their possible prognostic roles in various cancers. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio are hypothesized to reflect the systemic inflammation. The objective of the present study was to investigate whether or not the pretreatment neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio or platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio can predict the survival of patients with cervical cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and radical hysterectomy.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study on cervical cancer patients (FIGO stage Ib2-IIb) who had undergone neoadjuvant chemotherapy and radical hysterectomy at Peking Union Medical College Hospital between January 1999 and December 2010. Data on demographics, clinical prognostic markers and histopathology were collected and analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analyses for prognostic factors were performed.

Results

A total of 111 patients were identified. The median neutrophil-to-lymphocyte and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios were 2.4 and 142.2, respectively. Overall survival and progression-free survival were neither significantly different between patients with high and low neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (P=0.149 and P=0.108) nor in high and low platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (P=0.336 and P=0.510). On multivariate analysis, lymph node status (P=0.000 and P=0.007) and lymphovascular space involvement (P=0.001 and P=0.001) were independent prognostic factors of progression-free survival and overall survival.

Conclusions

Lymph node status and lymphovascular space involvement were found to be independent prognostic factors for patients with cervical cancer who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy and radical hysterectomy. The pretreatment neutrophil-to-lymphocyte and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios seemed not to predict the survival of patients with cervical cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and radical hysterectomy.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists cotreatment during chemotherapy in borderline ovarian tumor and ovarian cancer patients
Authors: ZHU Hong-lan , WANG Yan , LI Xiao-ping , WANG Chao-hua , WANG Yue , CUI Heng , WANG Jian-liu , WEI Li-hui
Published: January 2024

Background

Recently, conservative surgery is acceptable in young patients with borderline ovarian tumor and ovarian cancer. The preservation of these patients' future fertility has been the focus of recent interest. This study aimed to observe the effect of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa) cotreatment during chemotherapy in borderline ovarian tumor and ovarian cancer patients.

Methods

Sixteen patients who were treated with fertility preservation surgery for borderline ovarian tumor and ovarian cancer and then administered GnRHa during chemotherapy in Peking University People's Hospital from January 2006 to July 2010 were retrospectively analyzed. This group was compared with a control group of 16 women who were treated concurrently with similar chemotherapy (n=5) without GnRHa or were historical controls (n=11). The disease recurrence, the menstruation status and reproductive outcome were followed up and compared between the two groups.

Results

There were no significant differences between both groups regarding age, body weight, height, marriage status, classification of the tumors, stage of the disease, as were the cumulative doses of each chemotherapeutic agent. One (1/16) patient in the study group while 2 (2/16) patients in the control group relapsed 2 years after conclusion of the primary treatment (P >0.05). All of the 16 women in the study group compared with 11 of the 16 patients in the control group resumed normal menses 6 months after the termination of the treatment (P <0.05). There were 4 spontaneous pregnancies in the study group while 2 in the control group, all of the neonates were healthy.

Conclusions

GnRHa administration before and during chemotherapy in borderline ovarian tumor and ovarian cancer patients who had undergone fertility preservation operation may bring up higher rates of spontaneous resumption of menses and a better pregnancy rate. Long-term follow up and large scale clinical studies are required.