bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sphingosine Kinase-1/sphingosine 1-phosphate pathway in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Yanhui Deng , Tian Lan , Juan Huang , Heqing Huang
Published: January 2024

Objective

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the major cause of end-stage renal disease worldwide and its prevalence continues to increase. Currently, therapies for DN provide only partial renoprotection; hence new targets for therapeutic intervention need to be identified. In this review, we summarized the new target, sphingosine kinase-1/sphingosine 1-phosphate (SphK1/S1P) pathway, explored its potential therapeutic role in the prevention and treatment of DN.

Data sources

Most relevant articles were mainly identified by searching PubMed in English.

Study selection

Mainly original articles and critical review articles by major pioneer investigators in this field were selected to be reviewed.

Results

SphK1/S1P pathway can be activated by hyperglycemia, advanced glycation end products, and many pro-inflammatory cytokines, which leads to fibronectin, transforming growth factor-β1 up-regulation and AP-1 activation. And then it could promote glomerular mesangial cells proliferation and extracellular matrix accumulation, mediating the initiation and progression of diabetic renal fibrosis.

Conclusions

SphK1/S1P pathway is closely correlated with the pathogenesis of DN. The results suggest that SphK1/S1P pathway as a new target for clinically improving DN in future is of great prospect.
Changes of cerebrospinal fluid pressure after thoracic endovascular aortic repair
Authors: XUE Ling , LUO Jian-fang , LIU Yuan , HUANG Wen-hui , NI Zhong-han , HE Peng-cheng , XIE Nian-jin , FAN Rui-xin , LUO Song-yuan , CHEN Ji-yan
Published: January 2024

Background

Decreasing the intracranial pressure has been advocated as one of the major protective strategies to prevent spinal cord ischemia after endovascular aortic repair. However, the actual changes of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure and its relation with spinal cord ischemia have been poorly understood. We performed CSF pressure measurements and provisional CSF withdrawal after thoracic endovascular aortic repair, and compared the changes of CSF pressure in high risk patients and in patients with new onset paraplegia and paraparesis.

Methods

Four hundred and nineteen patients were evaluated for the risk of spinal cord ischemia after thoracic endovascular aortic repair. Patients with identified risk factors before the procedure constituted group H and received prophylactic sequential CSF pressure measurement and CSF withdrawal. Patients who actually developed spinal cord ischemia constituted group P and received rescue CSF pressure measurements and CSF withdrawal.

Results

Among the 419 patients evaluated, 17 were graded as high risk. Four patients actually developed spinal cord ischemia after endovascular repair. The incidence of spinal cord ischemia in this investigation was 0.9%. The patients who actually developed spinal cord ischemia had no identified risk factors and had elevated CSF pressure, ranging from 15.4 to 30.0 mmHg. Six of the 17 patients graded as high risk had elevated CSF pressure: >20 mmHg in two patients and >15 mmHg in four patients. Sequential CSF pressure measurements and provisional withdrawal successfully decrease CSF pressure and prevented symptomatic spinal cord ischemia in high-risk patients. However, these measurements could only successfully reverse the neurologic deficit in two of the patients who actually developed spinal cord ischemia.

Conclusions

Cerebrospinal fluid pressure was elevated in patients with spinal cord ischemia after thoracic endovascular aortic repair. Sequential measurements of CSF pressure and provisional withdrawal of CSF decreased CSF pressure effectively in high risk patients and provided effective prevention of spinal cord ischemia. Risk factor identification and prophylactic measurements play the key role in prevention of spinal cord ischemia after thoracic endovascular aortic repair.
Prevalence of depression in coronary heart disease in China: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yanping Ren , Hui Yang , Browning Colette , Thomas Shane , Meiyan Liu
Published: January 2024

Background

Coronary heart diseases (CHD) have been identified as one of topmost diseases affecting the Chinese population. However, depression in CHD has not been reported and there are limited high quality empirical studies in China focused on the prevalence of the comorbidity. This study aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of depression with CHD in China.

Methods

Systematic review and meta-analysis of published epidemiologic studies on the depression in CHD patients in China were conducted. The research findings dated before 30 September 2013 were obtained from Ovid Medline, EMBASE and two Chinese electronic publication libraries WANFANG and CNKI. We used “cardiovascular disease”, “depression” and “China” as the search themes in Ovid Medline and EMBASE and “cardiovascular disease” and “depression” in WANFANG and CNKI. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to estimate the prevalence of depression in CHD patients.

Results

Twenty-seven studies were included in the review. Twenty-three studies had 5 236 participants who were hospitalized and four studies had 1 353 participants from community. The overall prevalence of depression in CHD from hospital was 51% (95% CI: 0.43, 0.58; I-squared=97%, P=0.000).The prevalence of depression in CHD from community ranged between 34.6% to 45.8%, and the severe depression was found ranging between 3.1% to 11.2%.

Conclusions

On comparing data with other countries, the prevalence of depression in CHD among admitted patients in China was found to be high. The physicians and healthcare providers should pay more attention to the “physical-mental” health of the CHD patients.
Polymorphism of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene is associated with response to fluorouracil-based chemotherapy in Chinese patients with gastric cancer
Authors: Xiaoping Zhang , Zhibin Bai , Baoan Chen , Jifeng Feng , Feng Yan , Zhi Jiang , Yuejiao Zhong , Jianzhong Wu , Lu Cheng , Zuhong Lu , Na Tong , Zhengdong Zhang
Published: January 2024

Background

The importance of polymorphisms in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene for the prediction of the response to fluorouracil-based adjuvant chemotherapy in gastric cancer patients remains unclear. The aim of this study is to assess the predictive value of several polymorphisms of the MTHFR gene for clinical outcomes of gastric cancer patients treated with fluorouracil-based adjuvant chemotherapy in Chinese population.

Methods

Three hundred and sixty-two Chinese patients with gastric cancer were treated with fluorouracil-based adjuvant chemotherapy. DNA samples were isolated from peripheral blood collected before treatment. The three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (rs1801131, rs1801133, rs2274976) genotypes of the MTHFR gene were determined by matrixassisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS).

Results

The average response rate for chemotherapy was 46.7%. Homozygous genotypes rs2274976G/G (χ2=22.7, P <0.01) and rs1801131A/A (χ2=14.3, P=0.008) were over-represented in responsive patients. Carriers of the rs2274976A allele genotypes (G/A and A/A) and of the rs1801131C allele genotypes (A/C and C/C) were prevalent in nonresponsive patients. In the haplotype association analysis, there was a significant difference in global haplotype distribution between the groups (χ2=20.69, P=0.000 124).

Conclusions

These results suggest that polymorphisms of the MTHFR gene may be used as predictors of the response to fluorouracil-based chemotherapy for gastric cancer patients in Chinese population. Well-designed, comprehensive, and prospective studies on determining these polymorphisms of MTHFR gene as clinical markers for predicting the response to fluorouracil-based therapy in gastric cancer patients is warranted.
Preliminary study on the evaluation of Langerhans cell histiocytosis using F-18-fluoro-deoxy-glucose PET/CT
Authors: Wenlan Zhou , Hubing Wu , Yanjiang Han , Shaobo Wang , Ye Dong , Quanshi Wang
Published: January 2024

Background

Limited number of studies have been reported regarding the utilization of F-18-fluoro-deoxy-glucose (F-18-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (F-18-FDG PET/CT) in Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH). The aim of this study was to assess the role of F-18-FDG PET/CT in the diagnosis and treatment of LCH.

Methods

Eight newly diagnosed and seven recurrent patients with LCH received F-18-FDG PET/CT scans. The diagnosis of LCH was established by pathology, multi-modality imaging, and clinical follow-up.

Results

F-18-FDG PET/CT was positive in 14 patients with 13 true positives and one false positive. All 45 LCH lesions were F-18-FDG avid including six small bone lesions <1.0 cm in diameter. The mean maximal standardized uptake value (SUVmax) was 7.13±4.91. F-18-FDG uptake showed no significant difference between newly diagnosed lesions vs recurrent lesions (SUVmax: 6.50±2.97 vs. 7.93±6.60, t=-0.901, P=0.376). Among 45 LCH lesions, 68.9% (31/45) were found in bones and 31.1% (14/45) in soft tissue. The most commonly involved bones were the pelvis and vertebrae. There was no significant difference in F-18-FDG uptake between bone lesions vs. non-bone lesions (SUVmax: 6.30±2.87 vs. 8.97±7.58, t=1.277, P=0.221). In two patients, changes in F-18-FDG uptake on serial PET/CT scans reflected response of lesions to treatment.

Conclusions

The present study suggests that F-18-FDG PET/CT may be useful for diagnosis and assessing the treatment response of LCH. Because of the small sample size, further research is warranted to confirm our findings.
Vitreomacular traction syndrome
Authors: Lei Shao , Wenbin Wei
Published: January 2024

Objective

This study aimed to review the available literature on vitreomacular traction (VMT) syndrome and propose the future study prospect in this field.

Data sources

The data used in this review were mainly obtained from articles listed in Medline and Pubmed (1970-2013). The search terms were “vitreomacular traction,” “optical coherence tomography,” “vitrectomy,” and “ocriplasmin.”

Study selection

Articles regarding the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatments of VMT were selected and reviewed.

Results

VMT syndrome is a persistent attachment of vitreous to the macula in eyes with an incomplete posterior vitreous detachment and considered to be an uncommon status which correlated with some other macular disorders. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) can support a new way to examine and classify VMT. Nonoperative and operative intervenes on this disease have been developed recently, especially the intravitreal medical therapy.

Conclusions

VMT syndrome may be associated with various disorders in the macular region, depending in part on the size and strength of the residual vitreomacular adhesion. Regular OCT monitoring is recommended to detect it. Patients with asymptomatic VMT should be observed for at least 2-3 months; nonoperative treatment with ocriplasmin should be considered when disorders persist; surgery is recommended if VMT-related disease is significant.
Comparison of the clinical and radiological outcomes following midvastus and medial parapatellar approaches for total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis
Authors: Tao Li , Qianyu Zhuang , Ke Xiao , Lei Zhou , Xisheng Weng
Published: January 2024

Background

Controversy still exists regarding whether medial parapatellar approach (MP) or midvastus approach (MV) is preferable in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) up to now. The aim of this meta-analysis was to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes following the MV or MP for TKA.

Methods

A comprehensive search of unrestricted-language literature of all studies comparing MP with MV was conducted through the electronic literature databases of PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CNKI, VIP, and WANFANG. Retrieval time was from the time when databases were built to October 2013. Manual search of relevant trials, reviews, and related articles was also performed. Outcomes of interest included postoperative knee extensor and flexor function, postoperative pain, patella tilt, and complications. Relative risk (RR) and weighted mean differences (WMD) from each trial were pooled using random-effects or fixed-effects model depending on the heterogeneity of the included studies. A subgroup analysis or a sensitivity analysis was conducted to explore the potential source of heterogeneity when necessary.

Results

Twenty-one randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comprising 1 188 patients (1 450 knees) were eligible. Our results showed that MV was associated with better early postoperative extension (WMD=-1.26, 95% CI -2.36 to -0.16, P=0.02) and flexion (WMD=10.13, 95% CI 5.36 to 14.90, P <0.01), less postoperative pain (WMD=-0.21, 95% CI -0.34 to -0.07, P=0.002), and no greater risk for complications than MP. The patella tilt did not differ significantly between the two groups (WMD=-0.70, 95% CI -1.94 to 0.54, P=0.27).

Conclusions

MV may be a better approach than MP, as it improves postoperative early joint function and decreases pain. Future multi-center randomized controlled studies with large sample sizes are required to verify the current findings.
Effect and mechanism of tacrolimus on melanogenesis on A375 human melanoma cells
Authors: Haiyan Huang , Xiaoyan Wang , Xiaolan Ding , Qianxi Xu , Hwang Sonia Kay , Fang Wang , Juan Du , Jianzhong Zhang
Published: January 2024

Background

Topical tacrolimus has been used for vitiligo as a common treatment option for more than ten years while the underlying mechanism is still uncertain. The aim of this study was to investigate the direct effects of tacrolimus on the melanogenesis and migration on human A375 melanoma cells. The expression of c-KIT mRNA and protein of human A375 cells were also investigated.

Methods

The cultured A375 human melanoma cells were randomly assigned to control and tacrolimus treatment groups (10, 102, 103 and 104 nmol/L). The cell proliferation was measured with Cell Counting Kit-8 assays. Melanin content was measured with NaOH method. Transwell migration assay was used to measure cell migration. The expression of c-KIT mRNA and protein were measured with real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry respectively.

Results

The cell proliferation of the 103 and 104 nmol/L tacrolimus groups were significantly lower (0.666±0.062 and 0.496±0.038) as compared with the control (0.841±0.110, P <0.05). The mean melanin content in all groups treated with different concentration of tacrolimus (10, 102, 103, 104 nmol/L) increased compared with the control group (P <0.05). Dose-dependent increase in cell migration were seen in all tacrolimus-treated groups (P <0.01). The expression of c-KIT mRNA level in A375 cells exposed to tacrolimus (103 and 104 nmol/L) had significantly increased by 3.03-fold and 3.19-fold respectively compared with the control (P <0.05).

Conclusions

Although tacrolimus had no effects on cell proliferation on A375 human melanoma cells, it could increase the melanin content and cell migration. The expression of c-KIT mRNA and protein increased dose-dependently in tacrolimus-treated groups as compared with the control. Our study demonstrated that tacrolimus could enhance the melanogenesis and cell migration on A375 cells.
Changes of atrial natriuretic peptide and antidiuretic hormone in children with postural tachycardia syndrome and orthostatic hypertension: a case control study
Authors: Zhao Juan , Yang Jinyan , Du Shuxu , Tang Chaoshu , Du Junbao , Jin Hongfang
Published: January 2024

Background

The abnormal blood volume regulation is one of the most important pathogenesis in postural tachycardia syndrome in children. This study was designed to investigate the plasma atrial natriuretic peptide and antidiuretic hormone levels in postural tachycardia syndrome children, and their associations with the changes in heart rate and blood pressure in head-up test.

Methods

Twenty-one postural tachycardia syndrome patients ((12±2) years) and 26 healthy children ((12±1) years) were included. According to blood pressure changes in head-up test, the postural tachycardia syndrome patients were divided into two subgroups: postural tachycardia syndrome with orthostatic hypertension and postural tachycardia syndrome without orthostatic hypertension. The plasma atrial natriuretic peptide and antidiuretic hormone levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

The plasma atrial natriuretic peptide level in postural tachycardia syndrome patients was higher than the control (P=0.004), whereas the difference in plasma antidiuretic hormone level between postural tachycardia syndrome and controls was not significant (P=0.222). The plasma antidiuretic hormone level of patients suffering from postural tachycardia syndrome with orthostatic hypertension was much higher than that of children having postural tachycardia syndrome without orthostatic hypertension (P <0.05). In postural tachycardia syndrome patients, the upright max heart rate was positively correlated with the plasma atrial natriuretic peptide level (r=0.490, P<0.05) and the upright systolic blood pressure was positively correlated with the plasma antidiuretic hormone levels (r=0.472, P <0.05).

Conclusions

There was a disturbance of plasma atrial natriuretic peptide and antidiuretic hormone in postural tachycardia syndrome children.

Chin Med J 2014;127 (10): 1853-1857
Epidemiology of acute kidney injury in intensive care septic patients based on the KDIGO guidelines
Authors: Peng Qianyi , Zhang Lina , Ai Yuhang , Zhang Lemeng
Published: January 2024

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication of sepsis, which is associated with higher risks of adverse outcomes. Recently, kidney disease: improving global outcomes (KDIGO) recommended a new guideline for AKI, including a little modification on the AKI staging criteria.

Methods

This retrospective study included 211 septic patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) at Xiangya Hospital, Central South University from January 2008 to January 2011. AKI was diagnosed and classified according to the KDIGO or acute kidney injury network (AKIN) criteria. Differences between the AKI and non-AKI groups for baseline characteristics, laboratory examinations, etiology, outcomes, as well as the risk factors for AKI and 28-day mortality were analyzed. The reliability of the KDIGO criteria was also evaluated by comparing it with the AKIN criteria.

Results

The overall incidence of AKI in septic patients was 47.9%, and the 28-day mortality was 32.7%. The incidence of AKI was significantly higher in patients with more severe sepsis. Indicators of hepatic and respiratory function were significantly worse in the AKI group. Furthermore, a higher proportion of patients were infected with Enterobacter cloacae in the AKI group. The independent risk factors for AKI were shock, the number of organ failures, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels, and the use of vasopressors. The independent risk factors for mortality were BUN and creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) levels. Both the KDIGO criteria and the AKIN criteria were significantly associated with 28-day mortality.

Conclusions

The incidence and 28-day mortality of AKI were very high in ICU septic patients. Greater attention should be paid to AKI-induced hepatic and respiratory dysfunction in clinical practice. Patients with an intra-abdominal source of infection were more likely to develop AKI. KDIGO criteria are reliable in AKI staging.

Chin Med J 2014;127 (10): 1820-1826
Potential association of hyperhomocysteinemia with the progression of IgA nephropathy: a retrospective study
Authors: Duan Shuwei , Liu Shuwen , Sun Xuefeng , Zheng Ying , Liu Linchang , Yao Feixiang , Wu Jie
Published: January 2024

Background

The high blood homocysteine (Hcy) levels found in patients with hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) have been implicated in an increased risk of cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality in end-stage renal disease (ESRD). This study investigated the association of HHcy with progression of IgA nephropathy.

Methods

We analyzed 108 participants newly diagnosed with IgA nephropathy between August 2005 and August 2007 in the Department of Nephrology, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital. The association between clinicopathological factors and the Hcy levels were analyzed by Logistic regression and those with ESRD risk were analyzed by Cox regression.

Results

Patients were aged (35.71±10.73) years and included 45.71% women and 12.04% patients with HHcy. In multivariate Logistic regression analysis, HHcy was associated with arterial lesions (OR 2.60; 95% CI 1.55-4.34; P<0.001) even when age, body mass index, estimated glomerular filtration rate, mean arterial pressure, and initial proteinuria were taken into account. Mean follow-up was (67.37±16.21) months. HHcy was also associated with worse ESRD-free survival (HR 4.71; 95% CI 1.45 to 15.31; P=0.010).

Conclusion

HHcy is associated with the risk of intrarenal arterial lesions and may be useful for estimating the prognosis of IgA nephropathy.

Chin Med J 2014;127 (10): 1849-1852
Relationship between miRNA-338-3p expression and progression and prognosis of human colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Sun Kai , Su Guiyuan , Deng Haijun , Dong Jingqing , Lei Shangtong , Li Guoxin
Published: January 2024

Background

miR-338-3p is a recently discovered miRNA and is involved in cell differentiation. However, few data are yet available on the aberrant expression of miR-338-3p in human colorectal carcinoma (CRC). This work aimed to investigate the relationship between miR-338-3p expression pattern and clinicopathological features of human CRC and the possible regulative mechanisms.

Methods

The 40 CRC, adjacent nontumorous tissues and 2 human CRC-derived cell lines (SW-480 and SW-620) were collected, respectively, and the total RNA and protein were isolated routinely. The miR-338-3p expression pattern was detected by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Northern blotting. Smoothened (SMO, possible target of miR-338-3p) mRNA and corresponding protein expression pattern were detected by semiquantitative RT-PCR and Western blotting. miR-338-3p expression patterns were compared between nontumor mucosa and CRC samples, graded by progression-related factors. Disease outcome was calculated by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis to determine whether miR-338-3p was related to disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) of patients. Moreover, SMO 3′-UTR fragment was PCR amplified from genome DNA of human colon and inserted into a luciferase reporter plasmid. The luciferase reporter plasmid construct was then transfected into CRC cells together with pre-miR-338-3p or anti-miR-338-3p and the luciferase activity in the transfected cells was detected.

Results

The expression of miR-338-3p was significantly downregulated in CRCs than those in the adjacent nontumorous tissues, and the value was negatively related to advanced TNM stage and local invasion (P <0.01). Furthermore, miR-338-3p value was decreased markedly in SW-620 cell line relative to SW-480 (P <0.01). Low expression of miR-338-3p was associated with unfavorable outcome in DFS but not in OS independent of clinical covariates. Moreover, RT-PCR and Western blotting analysis demonstrated that there was no significant difference in SMO mRNA expression between the corresponding CRCs and nontumorous tissues, whereas SMO protein markedly increased in CRCs (P <0.01). A significant increase in luciferase activity was detected in CRC cells, which were cotransfected with the luciferase reporter plasmid construct and anti-miR-338-3p (P <0.01).

Conclusions

miR-338-3p is expressed differentially in CRC and associated with progression and prognosis of CRC. SMO might be a possible target of miR-338-3p, which made it a potential antitumor candidate for treatment and prevention of CRC.

Chin Med J 2014; 127 (10): 1884-1890
Value of knee skin temperature measured by infrared thermography and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 in the diagnosis of periprosthetic knee infection in Chinese individuals following total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Yishake Mumingjiang , Xindie Zhou , Rongxin He
Published: January 2024

Background

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a successful and frequently performed procedure in orthopedic surgery. The diagnosis of peri-prosthetic joint infection following TKA remains challenging. The present study estimated the usefulness of knee skin temperature (measured by infrared thermography) and serum soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1) in the diagnosis of post-operative knee peri-prosthetic infection.

Methods

Patients were divided into three groups: 21 patients undergoing uncomplicated TKAs, seven with prosthesis infection, and three undergoing TKA revisions. The serum levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and sICAM-1 as well as the local knee skin temperature were measured preoperatively and on Days 1 and 7 and at 1, 3, and 6 months post-operatively in Groups 1 and 3. The same parameters were measured in Group 2 at the time of prosthesis infection diagnosis.

Results

In Group 1, the levels of IL-6, CRP, ESR, and knee skin temperature were significantly elevated post-operatively, but returned to baseline levels within 6 months. The sICAM-1 levels were not significantly different. The mean differential temperature (MDT) and levels of siCAM-1, IL-6, CRP, and ESR differed significantly between Groups 1 and 2. The MDT had returned to normal in Group 3 by 6 months post-operatively.

Conclusions

Elevations in IL-6, CRP, ESR, and MDT in patients undergoing TKA could be a normal response to surgical trauma, but sustained elevations may be indicative of complications. The knee skin temperature and sICAM-1 may be used as indicators in the diagnosis of knee prosthesis infection following TKA.
Unexpected positive cultures including isolation of Propionibacterium acnes in revision shoulder arthroplasty
Authors: Seung Ju Kim , Jong Hun Kim
Published: January 2024

Objective

Little information is available to guide treatment strategies regarding patients with unexpected positive cultures (UPC), including Propionibacterium acnes (PA), without overt signs of infection in revision shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). The purpose of our study was to analyze the prevalence, clinical meaning, treatment and prognosis of UPC in RSA. Data sources and study selection We performed a systematic review of the literature between 1950 and 2013 for all studies reporting on UPC for PA. Studies with the prevalence and prognosis of patients with UPC in RSA were analyzed. Results Six studies meeting our inclusion criteria yielded data for 1 402 patients who underwent a total of 1405 RSA. Based on the available data, following RSA 235 shoulders had UPCs with a pooled percentage of 16.7% (235/1405). The most commonly isolated bacteria from shoulders following RSA with UPCs was PA with pooled percentages of 63.4% (149/235). Occurrence of true infection from UPCs after RSA was seen in 24 shoulders (24/235, 10.2%). Antibiotic use did not influence the rate of the occurrence of true infection from UPCs (P=0.498).

Conclusions

Our study showed a low risk of having a true infection from UPCs after RSA without clinical signs of pre-operative infection at the time of the surgery. Therefore, prolonged antibiotic therapy may not be necessary in these patients.
Reinnervation of hair cells by neural stem cell-derived neurons
Authors: Yasheng Yuan , Yang Wang , Fanglu Chi
Published: January 2024

Background

Replacement of spiral ganglion neurons would be one prioritized step in an attempt to restore sensory neuronal hearing loss. However, the possibility that transplanted neurons could regenerate new synaptic connections to hair cells has not been explored. The objective of this study was to test whether neural stem cell (NSC)-derived neurons can form synaptic connections with hair cells in vitro.

Methods

NSCs were mechanically separated from the hippocampus in SD rat embryos (E12-E14) and cultured in a serum-free medium containing basic fibroblast growth factor and epidermal growth factor. Rat NSCs were co-cultured with explants of cochlea sensory epithelia obtained from postnatal Day 3 rats under transway filter membrane.

Results

At Day 3, the NSCs began to show chemotactic differentiation and grew toward cochlea sensory epithelia. After 9-day co-culture, neurites of NSC-derived neurons predominantly elongated toward hair cells. Immunohistochemical analyses revealed the fibers overlapped with synapsin and hair cells, indicating the formation of new synaptic connections. After 14-day culture, triple staining revealed the fibers overlapped with PSD95 (postsynaptic density) which is juxtaposed with CtBP2 (presynaptic vesicle), indicating the formation of new ribbon synapse.

Conclusions

NSC-derived neurons can make synaptic connections with hair cells and provide a model for studying synaptic plasticity and regeneration. Whether the newly forming synapse is functional merits further electrophysiological study.
Cytotoxic effects of sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate on human keratinocytes are not associated with proinflammatory cytokines expression
Authors: Mu Zhanglei , Liu Xiaojing , Zhao Yan , Zhang Jianzhong
Published: January 2024

Background

Keratinocytes play a crucial role in the biological function of skin barrier. The relationship between sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and keratinocytes has been studied. However, the cytotoxicity and effects of sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate (SDBS), a common detergent similar to SLS, on keratinocytes are still not known. This study aimed to investigate the effects of SDBS on cytotoxicity and expression of proinflammatory cytokines in cultured human keratinocytes.

Methods

This study was carried out using the keratinocytes cell line, HaCaT cells. The cytotoxicity of SDBS on HaCaT cells was evaluated with cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and phase-contrast microscopy. After exposure to different concentrations of SDBS, the total RNA of the HaCaT cells was extracted for evaluating the relative mRNA expression of IL-1α, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α by qPCR. The supernatants of cells were collected for measuring the levels of IL-6 and IL-8 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

SDBS at concentrations of 20 μg/ml and over showed direct cytotoxicity and induced morphological changes of the HaCaT cells. The mRNA expressions of IL-1α, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α in different concentrations of SDBS at different time were comparable with that of controls. SDBS at concentrations of 5, 10, and 15 μg/ml had no significant effects on IL-6 and IL-8 excretion from HaCaT cells after 24-hour exposure. Moreover, no significant effects on the IL-6 and IL-8 excretion were found after 10 and 15 μg/ml SDBS stimulations for 6, 12, and 24 hours, respectively.

Conclusion

SDBS at higher concentrations had cytotoxicity on HaCaT cells but had no effects on the mRNA expression of IL-1α, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α, that was different from SLS.
Surgery for sinus of Valsalva aneurysm: 33-year of a single center experience
Authors: Yan Fei , Abudureheman Murat , Huo Qiang , Shabiti Askaer , Zhu Tao , Liu Zhen
Published: January 2024

Background

Sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (SVA) is a rare anomaly and few large or long-term series are well established. This study was designed to review 33-year surgical experience of SVA in one center.

Methods

From August 1980 to December 2013, patients with SVA underwent surgical repair were retrospectively studied.

Results

A total of 160 patients were identified with mean age of (30±12) years and 112 (70%) of them were males. The right coronary sinus origin of SVA was found in 108 patients (67.5%), the non-coronary sinus in 51 patients (31.9%), and the left coronary sinus in one patient (0.6%). The rupture of SVA into the right ventricle was identified in 89 (55.6%) cases, the right atrium in 61 (38.1%), the left ventricle in 2 (1.3%) and no rupture in 8 (5.0%). Ventricular septal defect (VSD) and aortic regurgitation (AR) were found in 59 (37%) and 45 (28%) patients respectively. An approach via the involved chamber was used in 86 patients (54%), aortotomy in 8 (5%), and a combined approach in 66 (41%). Either direct suture (56, 35%) or patch (104, 65%) closure were used to repair the SVA. The VSD was closed with a patch (44/59, 75%) or direct suture (15/59, 25%). aortic valve replacement (AVR) was performed in 23/45 (51%) and aortic valvuloplasty (AVP) in 9/45 (20%) patients combined with AR. There were 3 hospital deaths (1.9%) and 2 late deaths and 84% of the patients were followed up for (17.6±4.2) years. New York Heart Association functional class improved significantly after surgery (P < 0.01). Actuarial survival was 94% at 10 years, and 88% at 20 years.

Conclusions

Surgical treatment of SVA is safe and effective, ruptured SVA or unruptured SVA with VSD and/or AR should be repaired surgically as early as possible. However, late progressive AR is still a risk during long-term follow-up, and early aggressive measures are recommended. These include more use of a combined approach to achieve optimal evaluation of lesions, more patch repairs to reduce the chance of recurrence, and more AVR in patients with moderate to severe AR.
Understanding the standard of care in the treatment of type 2 diabetes in China: results from a national survey
Authors: Linong Ji , Newman Julliana , Juming Lu , Xiaoling Cai
Published: January 2024

Background

Given the pace with which standards of care have changed, timely assessment of their impact on routine clinical practice and patient outcomes is needed. In coordination with the Chinese Diabetes Society (CDS), we developed a quantitative survey to explore the implementation of standards of care for type 2 diabetes (T2D) in China.

Methods

A national online survey of physicians involved in the management of T2D in China was conducted over a 4-week period in 2012. Completed responses were obtained from 1 028 physicians. Participants responded to 52 questions designed to capture information relating to their demographic and clinical practice profiles. The questionnaire was divided into three sections: basic information, diagnosis practices and screening methods on main complications, and treatment and control practices. The questionnaire was developed in conjunction with the CDS.

Results

Overall, 83% of surveyed physicians were at least “aware” of the CDS guidelines on standards of care for T2D. Level of awareness was directly related to hospital grade, specialty, geographic location, professional rank and participation in CDS training. The 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test was reported as the most ever-used approach across all three hospital grades and physician specialties, with a usage rate of 97%. Respondents selected their choice of primary treatment for newly diagnosed T2D patients. Just over half (52%) indicated the use of oral anti-diabetic drugs (OAD) monotherapy, in line with CDS recommendations. However, OAD use varied considerably between different regions and city tiers. Despite hemoglobin A1c being defined as the gold standard for glucose control, it was not universally measured, with more physicians indicating routine use of glucose before fasting and glucose non-fasting.

Conclusion

The standards-of-care analysis has provided important insights into the current management of T2D among physicians in China across different geographical regions, hospital grades, specialties, professional statuses, and levels of CDS guideline awareness and training.
Can we early diagnose metabolic syndrome using brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity in community population?
Authors: Xin Li , Liang Zheng , Juanli Wu , Yunsheng Ma , Munakata Masanori , Jessica Oleski , Lijuan Zhang , Da Wo , Jingsong Wang , Qiaoyu Jiang , Liling Zou , Xuebo Liu , Jue Li
Published: January 2024

Background

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) increased recently and there was still not a screening index to predict MetS. The aim of this study was to estimate whether brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV), a novel marker for systemic arterial stiffness, could predict MetS in Chinese community population.

Methods

A total of 2 191 participants were recruited and underwent medical examination including 1 455 men and 756 women from June 2011 to January 2012. MetS was diagnosed according to the criteria of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). Multiple Logistic regressions were conducted to explore the risk factors of MetS. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was performed to estimate the ideal diagnostic cutoff point of baPWV to predict MetS.

Results

The mean age was (45.35±8.27) years old. In multiple Logistic regression analysis, the gender, baPWV and smoking status were risk factors to MetS after adjusting age, gender, baPWV, walk time and sleeping time. The prevalence of MetS was 17.48% in 30-year age population in Shanghai. There were significant differences (ξ2=96.46, P <0.05) between male and female participants on MetS prevalence. According to the ROC analyses, the ideal cutoff point of baPWV was 1 358.50 cm/s (AUC=60.20%) to predict MetS among male group and 1 350.00 cm/s (AUC=70.90%) among female group.

Conclusion

BaPWV may be considered as a screening marker to predict MetS in community Chinese population and the diagnostic value of 1 350.00 cm/s was more significant for the female group.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis will increase the risk of lung cancer
Authors: Junyao Li , Ming Yang , Ping Li , Zhenzhong Su , Peng Gao , Jie Zhang
Published: January 2024

Objective

To review the studies investigating the increased risk of lung cancer in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).

Data sources

Data cited in this review were obtained mainly from PubMed and Medline from 1999 to 2013 and highly regarded older publications were also included.

Study selection

We identified, retrieved and reviewed the information on the frequency, risk factors, anatomical features, histological types, clinical manifestations, computed tomography findings and underlying mechanisms of lung cancer in IPF patients.

Results

The prevalence rates of lung cancer in patients with IPF (4.8% to 48%) are much higher than patients without IPF (2.0% to 6.4%). The risk factors for lung cancer in IPF include smoking, male gender, and age. Lung cancers often occur in the peripheral lung zones where fibrotic changes are predominant. Adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common types of lung cancer in patients with IPF. Radiologic features of these patients include peripherally located, ill-defined mass mimicking air-space disease. The underlying mechanisms of the development of lung cancer in patients with IPF have not been fully understood, but may include the inflammatory response, epithelial injury and/or abnormalities, aberrant fibroblast proliferation, epigenetic and genetic changes, reduced cell-to-cell communication, and activation of specific signaling pathways.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that IPF is associated with increased lung cancer risk. It is necessary to raise the awareness of lung cancer risk in IPF patients among physicians and patients.
Effect of vitrification at the germinal vesicle stage on the global methylation status in mouse oocytes subsequently matured in vitro
Authors: Yan Jie , Zhang Lu , Wang Tianren , Li Rong , Liu Ping , Yan Liying , Qiao Jie
Published: January 2024

Background

It is still unclear whether the vitrification procedure itself is associated with the incidence of abnormal DNA methylation during oocytes vitrification. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the epigenetic profile of mouse oocytes, which went through vitrification either at a mature stage or at an immature stage following in vitro maturation (IVM) by analyzing the global DNA methylation.

Methods

Metaphase II (M II) stage and germinal vesicle (GV) stage oocytes were collected from adult female mice and were vitrified respectively. The M II oocytes were assessed for cryo-survival and global DNA methylation. The GV oocytes were assessed for cryo-survival and only the surviving GV oocytes were cultured in vitro for subsequent assessment of global DNA methylation in mature oocytes. In vivo matured fresh M II oocytes without undergoing vitrification were used as control. The level of global DNA methylation in the M II oocytes was then examined by immunofluorescence using an anti-5-methylcytosine (anti-5-MeC) monoclonal antibody and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-conjugated goat anti-mouse IgG under a laser scanning confocal microscope.

Results

In terms of the effect of vitrification on global DNA methylation status in matured oocytes, in the M II-v group, all the examined oocytes (90/90) were found with hypermethylation, including 63.3% (57/90) of them displaying DNA methylation of a very high level, 25.6% (23/90) with a high level, and 11.1% (10/90) with an intermediate level, whereas in the GV-v group, all the matured oocytes (129/129) were also examined with hypermethylation, including 67.4% (87/129) of them displaying DNA methylation of a very high level, 23.3% (30/129) with a high level, and 9.3% (12/129) with an intermediate level. Statistically, it was similar between both groups, which were similar to the control: 68.6% (83/121) of fresh M II oocytes displayed DNA methylation of a very high level, 21.5% (26/121) with a high level, and 9.9%(12/121) with an intermediate level (P >0.05). In terms of the effect of IVM on global DNA methylation status in matured oocytes, in the in vivo matured oocytes group, all oocytes examined (94/94) were found with hypermethylation, including 80.9% (76/94) displaying DNA methylation of a very high level and 19.1% (18/94) with a high level, whereas in the in vitro matured oocytes group, all oocytes examined (69/69) were also found with hypermethylation: 85.2% (56/69) of them displayed with DNA methylation of very high level, 11.9% (11/69) with high level, and 2% (2/69) with intermediate level. This result was similar to that in in vivo matured fresh M II oocytes (P >0.05).

Conclusion

The vitrification procedure at GV stage does not induce widespread alteration of global DNA methylation status of mouse oocytes subsequently matured in vitro.
Correlation of Th17 cells and CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells with clinical parameters in patients with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Nan Jiang , Mengtao Li , Xiaofeng Zeng
Published: January 2024

Background

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease that has three major components: inflammation, fibrosis, and vasculopathy. T-helper 17 cell (Th17) and regulatory T cell (Treg) are considered to be critical for autoimmune disease pathogenesis. The role of Th17 and Treg in SSc is still unclear. The aim of this study was to detect the presence of Th17s and CD4+CD25+ Tregs in peripheral blood samples from SSc patients and to investigate the possible roles of these two T cell subsets in SSc pathogenesis.

Methods

Th17s (CD4 and IL-17 positive) and CD4+CD25+ Tregs (CD4, CD25 and Foxp3 positive) in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of 53 SSc patients and 27 healthy controls were counted by flow cytometry. The differences between SSc and control patients were analyzed. Clinical parameters, including disease duration, duration of the second symptoms, Modified Rodnan Skin Score (MRSS), anti-topoisomerase I antibody, anti-U1 ribonucleoprotein (RNP) antibody, systemic involvements, pulmonary function test (PFT) and high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) score were prospectively collected following EUSTAR (EULAR scleroderma trial and research group) protocols. The correlations between the experimental and clinical data were investigated.

Results

The ratio of Th17 in SSc patients was significantly elevated compared to healthy controls (8.74% vs. 4.41%, P <0.001). The amount of Th17 was positively correlated with disease duration (R=0.531, P=0.013) and duration of the second symptoms (R=0.505, P=0.023). The ratio of CD4+CD25+ Treg in SSc patients also significantly differed from the healthy controls (3.04% vs. 2.24%, P=0.018). Elevated Tregs were more frequently observed in patients with a high interstitial lung disease (ILD) score on computed tomography (24/36) compared with patients with normal ILD scores (4/12, P=0.043). Elevated Tregs were also more often observed in patients with low carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCO) (24/34) compared with patients with normal DLCO (4/11, P=0.042).

Conclusions

T cell abnormalities are remarkable in systemic sclerosis. Th17s proliferate and their numbers increase with lengthened disease duration. Th17s might participate in both inflammation and fibrosis by secreting IL-17. CD4+CD25+ Tregs also proliferate in SSc and may play important roles in promoting fibrosis.
Anti-catabolic effect of caffeic acid phenethyl ester, an active component of honeybee propolis on bone loss in ovariectomized mice: a micro-computed tomography study and histological analysis
Authors: Duan Wangping , Wang Qing , Li Fang , Xiang Chuan , Zhou Lin , Xu Jiake , Feng Haotian , Wei Xiaochun
Published: January 2024

Background

Osteoporosis (OP) is a common bone disease, which adversely affects life quality. Effective treatments are necessary to combat both the loss and fracture of bone. Recent studies indicated that caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is a natural chemical compound from honeybee propolis which is capable of attenuating osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of CAPE on bone loss in OP mice using micro-computed tomography (CT) and histology.

Methods

Eighteen mice were prepared and evenly divided into three groups. The six mice in the sham+PBS group did not undergo ovariectomy and were intraperitoneally injected with PBS during the curing period. Twelve mice were ovariectomized (OVX) to induce OP. Six of them in the OVX+CAPE group were intraperitoneally injected with 0.5 mg/kg CAPE twice per week for 4 weeks after ovariectomy. The other six OVX mice in OVX+PBS group were treated with PBS. All the mice were sacrificed 4 weeks after ovariectomy. The tibias were bilaterally excised for micro-CT scan and histological analysis. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to test the statistical differences among groups.

Results

Bone loss occurred in OVX mice. Compared with the sham+PBS group, mice in the OVX+PBS group exhibited a significant decrease in bone mineral density (BMD, P <0.05), bone volume fraction (BV/TV, P <0.01), trabecular thickness (Tb.Th, P <0.05), and trabecular number (Tb.N, P <0.01), as well as a non-insignificant increase in the number of osteoclasts (N.Oc/B.Pm). With CAPE treatment, the microarchitecture of the tibial metaphyses was significantly improved with a reduction of osteoclast formation. Compared with the OVX+PBS group, BV/TV in the OVX+CAPE group was significantly increased by 33.9% (P <0.05).

Conclusion

CAPE therapy results in the protection of bone loss induced by OVX.