bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nerve conduction studies in patients with dermatomyositis or polymyositis
Authors: WANG Yue , CUI Li-ying , CHEN Lin , LIU Ming-sheng , QI Xin , LI Ben-hong , DU Hua
Published: January 2024

Background

Involvement of peripheral nerves in dermatomyositis (DM) and polymyositis (PM) is less well known. In the present study we retrospectively analyzed the clinical and electrophysiological records of hospital inpatients with a diagnosis of DM or PM to investigate the association of DM/PM and peripheral neuropathy.

Methods

The data of inpatients diagnosed with DM or PM were collected in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, and 186 patients (118 patients with DM and 68 with PM) were retrospectively analyzed. Nerve conduction studies (NCSs) of the median nerve, ulnar nerve, posterior tibial nerve, and common peroneal nerve were examined simultaneously.

Results

There were 71 (38.2%) patients with abnormal NCS findings, 37 (19.9%) with pure motor involvement (decreased compound muscle action potential, CMAP), and 34 (18.3%) with peripheral neuropathy. Of the 34 peripheral neuropathy patients, 14 (7.5%) had polyneuropathy, 1 (0.5%) had multiple mononeuropathy, 16 (8.6%) had carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), 1 (0.5%) had trigeminal sensory neuropathy, 1 (0.5%) had ulnar sensory neuropathy, and 1 (0.5%) had brachial plexus involvement. The prevalence of malignant disease (3/34, 8.8%), other connective tissue diseases (CTDs) (7/34, 20.6%) and diabetes (6/34, 17.6%) was significantly greater in DM/PM patients with peripheral neuropathy (X2=15.855, P=0.000) compared with DM/PM patients without involvement of peripheral nerves (5/115, 4.3% and 7/115, 6.1%, respectively).

Conclusions

Peripheral neuropathy in DM/PM often suggests a complication with cancer, other CTDs, diabetes or CTS. From a practical point of view, NCS for DM/PM may help find the underlying disorders.
Changes of cathepsin B in human photoaging skin both in vivo and in vitro
Authors: LAI Wei , ZHENG Yue , YE Zhang-zhang , SU Xiang-yang , WAN Miao-jian , GONG Zi-jian , XIE Xiao-yuan , LIU Wei
Published: January 2024

Background

Cathepsin B plays an important role in cell cycle, extracellular matrix changes and cutaneous tumorigenesis: whether it plays a role in photoaged skin remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the role of cathepsin B in skin photoaging in vivo and in vitro.

Methods

The expressions of cathepsin B were compared with immunohistochemical methods in solar exposed skin and solar protected skin of six healthy Chinese volunteers. The mRNA and protein expression of cathepsin B in ultraviolet light A (UVA) induced premature senescence fibroblasts in vitro were detected by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting technique.

Results

Decreased expression of cathepsin B was observed in photoaged skin compared with that of the solar protected skin. In the UVA induced, premature senescence fibroblasts, a lower expression of cathepsin B was detected by Western blotting and a decreased synthesis of cathepsin B mRNA in the same cells was revealed by real-time RT-PCR.

Conclusions

The results demonstrated a significant negative correlation between skin photoaging and cathepsin B in vitro and in vivo. We propose that cathepsin B, besides matrix metalloproteinases and antioxidant enzymes, is involved in the process of skin photoaging in that it contributes to extracellular matrix remodelling and is a dominant protease in cellular apoptosis and senescence.
Relationship between antifungal resistance of fluconazole resistant Candida albicans and mutations in ERG 11 gene
Authors: FENG Li-juan , WAN Zhe , WANG Xiao-hong , LI Ruo-yu , LIU Wei
Published: January 2024

Background

The cytochrome P450 lanosterol 14α-demethylase (Erg11p) encoded by ERG11 gene is the primary target for azole antifungals. Changes in azole affinity of this enzyme caused by amino acid substitutions have been reported as a mechanism of azole antifungal resistance. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between amino acid substitutions in Erg11p from fluconazole resistant Candida albicans (C. albicans) isolates and their cross-resistance to azoles.

Methods

Mutations in ERG11 gene were screened in 10 clinical isolates of fluconazole resistant C. albicans strains. DNA sequence of ERG11 was determined by PCR based DNA sequencing.

Results

In the 10 isolates, 19 types of amino acid substitutions were found, of which 10 substitutions (F72S, F103L, F145I, F198L, G206D, G227D, N349S, F416S, F422L and T482A) have not been reported previously. Mutations in ERG11 gene were detected in 9 isolates of fluconazole resistant C. albicans, but were not detected in 1 isolate. Conclusions Although no definite correlation was found between the type of amino acid substitutions in Erg11p and the phenotype of cross-resistance to azoles, the substitutions F72S, F145I and G227D in our study may be highly associated with resistance to azoles because of their special location in Erg11p.
Analysis of risk factors of surgical site infections in breast cancer
Authors: GAO Yang-xu , XU Ling , YE Jing-ming , WANG Dong-min , ZHAO Jian-xin , ZHANG Lan-bo , DUAN Xue-ning , LIU Yin-hua
Published: January 2024

Background

Adjuvant chemotherapy has become an important component of standard therapy for breast cancer. However, until now, there have been few reports on the surgical site infections (SSI) after breast cancer surgery, specially after adjuvent chemotherapy. To study the risk factors of SSI of breast cancer, we analyzed patients diagnosed with breast cancer and treated with surgery.

Methods

Fifty-five patients diagnosed with breast cancer and received breast conserving or modified radical operations in our hospital during January 2008 to March 2008 were selected. Factors (patients’ age, body mass index (BMI), diabetes mellitus, no or administered adjuvant chemotherapy, with or without onset of myelosuppression and the degree, surgical approaches, duration of operation, postoperative drainage duration and total drainage volume) associated with SSI were retrospectively reviewed and statistically analyzed by single factor analysis.

Results

Five patients suffered SSI (5/55, 9.1%); nineteen receiving adjuvant chemotherapy experienced Grade III+ myelosuppression, among which 4 had SSI; only 1 out of the remaining 36 patients without adjuvant chemotherapy had SSI. The difference between the two groups was significant (P=0.043). The incidence of SSI in patients with postoperative drainage tube indwelling longer than 10 days was 5/21, whereas no SSI occurred in that less than 10 days (P=0.009). In our study, there was no significient difference in other associated factors.

Conclusions

Concurrent Grade III+ myelosuppression after adjuvant chemotherapy is an important risk factor of SSI in breast cancer and needs further study. No SSI was detected with indwelling time of post operative drainage less than 10 days.
Intra-coronary administration of soluble receptor for advanced glycation end-products attenuates cardiac remodeling with decreased myocardial transforming growth factor-β1 expression and fibrosis in minipigs with ischemia-reperfusion injury
Authors: LU Lin , ZHANG Qi , XU Yan , ZHU Zheng-bin , GENG Liang , WANG Ling-jie , JIN Cao , CHEN Qiu-jing , Schmidt Ann Marie , SHEN Wei-feng
Published: January 2024

Background

The cardioprotective effects of soluble receptor for advanced glycation end-products (sRAGE) have not been evaluated in large animals and the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of intra-coronary administration of sRAGE on left ventricular function and myocardial remodeling in a porcine model of ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury.

Methods

Ten male minipigs with I/R injury were randomly allocated to receive intra-coronary administration of sRAGE (sRAGE group, n=5) or saline (control group, n=5). Echocardiography was performed before and 2 months after infarction. Myocardial expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 was determined by immunohistochemistry and fibrosis was evaluated by Sirius red staining.

Results

As compared with the baseline values in the control animals, left ventricular end-diastolic volume (from (19.5±5.1) to (32.3±5.6) ml, P <0.05) and end-systolic volume (from (8.3±3.2) to (15.2±4.1) ml, P <0.05) were significantly increased, whereas ejection fraction was decreased (from (61.6±13.3)% to (50.2±11.9)%, P<0.05). No obvious change in these parameters was observed in the sRAGE group. Myocardial expression of TGF-β1 was significantly elevated in the infarct and non-infarct regions in the control group, as compared with sRAGE group (both P <0.01). Fibrotic lesions were consistently more prominent in the infarct region of the myocardium in the control animals (P<0.05).

Conclusion

Intra-coronary sRAGE administration attenuates RAGE-mediated myocardial fibrosis and I/R injury through a TGF-β1-dependent mechanism, suggesting a clinical potential in treating RAGE/ligand-associated cardiovascular diseases.
Effect of three interventional bronchoscopic methods on tracheal stenosis and the formation of granulation tissues in dogs
Authors: ZHANG Jie , WANG Ting , WANG Juan , PEI Ying-hua , XU Min , WANG Yu-ling , ZHANG Xia , WANG Chen
Published: January 2024

Background

Therapeutic approaches for tracheal stenosis caused by the formation of exuberant granulation tissues usually include electrocautery, mechanical dilation, laser therapy, argon plasma coagulation (APC), cryotherapy and stent placement. However, restenosis after stent insertion remains a significant limitation. We examined the efficacy of three different approaches, including induction of mechanical lesions, APC performed with different powers or durations and cryotherapy, to identify the method that limited the formation of granulation tissue.

Methods

Twelve specially bred research mongrel dogs were divided into three groups. In group 1 (four dogs) mild (procedure 1; two dogs) or moderate (procedure 2; two dogs) damage was induced mechanically. Group 2 (six dogs) received APC at different powers or durations (procedure 3: 30 W, 1 cm/s; procedure 4: 30 W, 2 cm/s; procedure 5: 25 W, 3 cm/s). Group 3 (two dogs) received cryotherapy (procedure 6: two freeze-thaw cycles of 30 seconds). Uncovered self-expandable metallic stents were inserted in all dogs to maintain a continuous stimulus to the trachea mucosa. Dogs were monitored for 4 weeks and the relationship between granulation tissue proliferation and method used was analyzed.

Results

In group 1, granulation tissue growth increased with more severe mechanical damage. The growth of granulation tissue in group 2 was more pronounced than in group 1, and both dogs in procedure 3 died because of severe stenosis. In this group, the formation of granulation tissue decreased with decreasing power and duration. In group 3, no obvious granulation tissue was found at week 4.

Conclusions

Lesions and stimuli from a foreign body (the stent) are two important factors that lead to overgrowth of granulation tissue. Thermal lesions, such as APC, seem to induce greater granulation tissue growth and cartilage damage compared with mechanical and cryotherapy lesions. Cryotherapy in combination with mechanical dilation may be a safe and effective treatment method for managing tracheal stenosis caused by the formation of granulation tissue.
High-density lipoprotein associated factors apoA-I and serum amyloid A in Chinese non-diabetic patients with coronary heart disease
Authors: CHEN Guo-liang , LIU Li-wei , XIE Shuang , LIU Hong , LIU Yu-qing , LI Yi-shi
Published: January 2024

Background

High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels are a strong, independent inverse predictor of coronary heart disease (CHD). In this cross-sectional study we investigated the interrelationships between HDL-C and HDL related factors apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) and serum amyloid A (SAA) and the presence and extent of CHD in a population of Chinese patients with CHD.

Methods

Two hundred and twenty-four consecutive patients took part in this study. Demographic data were obtained from hospital records. Serum chemical concentrations were measured by standard laboratory methods.

Results

The concentrations of high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP) (median:1.85 mg/L) and SAA (median: 9.40 mg/L) were significantly higher in the CHD group (P <0.05), while concentrations of HDL-C((1.03±0.25) mmol/L) and apoA-I ((604.59±105.79) mmol/L) were significantly lower than those in the non-CHD group (P <0.05). The concentrations of apoA-I decreased with the increase in vascular damage, but the difference did not reach statistical significance. However, the concentrations of hsCRP and SAA increased with the increase in vascular damage. The unadjusted odd ratios (ORs) (CI) for apoA-I and SAA of the presence of CHD were 0.093 (0.990-0.997) (P=0.00) and 2.571 (1.029-6.424) (P <0.05), respectively. The association between elevated SAA and the presence of CHD was lost after adjusting for lipid status parameter concentrations. The associations between apoA-I, SAA and the extent of CHD remained strong, regardless of confounding variables.

Conclusions

Increased concentrations of SAA represent the inflammatory marker of the extent of coronary stenosis in patients with CHD. In contrast to SAA, the level of apoA-I was also associated with the presence of CHD, indicating that apoA-I was not only a marker of CHD presence but also a quantitative indicator of CHD extent. In short, determining the change apolipoprotein content within HDL particle is a more accurate and effective method to evaluate the impact of HDL on CHD.
Correction of severe post-traumatic kyphosis by posterior vertebra column resection
Authors: ZHANG Xue-song , ZHANG Yong-gang , WANG Zheng , CHEN Chao , WANG Yan
Published: January 2024

Background

Post-traumatic kyphosis is a common potential complication of spinal trauma and correct management of this problem is becoming ever more important. Although posterior vertebra column resection has been increasingly adopted to correct severe spinal deformity, no series of reports were found on severe post-traumatic kyphosis in the thoracolumbar region. Therefore, the present cohort retrospective study is presented to evaluate the clinical and radiographic results of posterior vertebra column resection with instrument fusion performed in patients with severe post-traumatic kyphosis.

Methods

From May 2004 to May 2006, 53 patients (38 male, 15 female) at an average age of 37.6 years (range, 24 to 66 years), were surgically treated for symptomatic post-traumatic thoracolumbar kyphosis with a posterior wedge closing osteotomy at our hospital. Among them, 5 consecutive adult patients with severe post-traumatic kyphosis were included in this study. Operation time, blood loss and complications were noted in each case. Radiographic documentation was made on the basis of standing anterior-posterior (AP) and lateral views and three dimensional reconstruction images of computed tomography (CT) scans were used to further identify the apex region of a sharp angular deformity. Sagittal correction was assessed in terms of effective regional deformity (ERD) for the injury level. Assessment of radiological fusion at follow-up was based on the presence of trabecular bone bridging at the osteotomy site according to Brantigan. Preoperative and postoperative clinical assessments were performed by using Oswestry disability index (ODI), back pain was rated in all patients by the visual analog scale (VAS) preoperatively, postoperatively and at the latest follow-up.

Results

The mean operating time was 265 minutes (220-408 minutes), with an average blood loss of 1362 ml (870-2570 ml). Each patient finished at least two years of follow-up. The average ERD significantly decreased from 69° (58°-86°), preoperatively to 4° (1°-8°) after surgery (P=0.017); with a mean correction of 65°. ERD averaged 10.4° (7°-17°) at the latest follow-up with a mean loss of 6.4°. VAS and ODI scores improved from preoperative 7.4 (6.0-9.0) and 55.2 (48.0-60.0) to 2.3 (1.0-4.0) and 12.2 (7.0-18.0) at the latest follow-up. Full bone fusion was achieved in all patients. Complications occurred in two patients: one had a transient weakness of the left side lower extremity and the symptom improved spontaneously without further treatment within one month; the other patient suffered a deep wound infection three weeks after the operation, and recovered well by additional debridement, continuous perfusion and drainage.

Conclusions

Posterior vertebra column resection can satisfactorily correct severe post-traumatic kyphosis in thoracolumbar region. Nevertheless, this challenging procedure should be performed by experienced spinal surgeon to minimize complications.
Evaluation of pathological diagnosis using ultrasonography-guided lymph node core-needle biopsy
Authors: YUAN Jing , LI Xiang-hong
Published: January 2024

Background

Image-guided core-needle biopsy as a minimally invasive procedure has partially replaced excisional biopsy of the lymph node. However, it is still a great challenge to pathologists. The aim of this study was to survey and evaluate the accuracy of pathological diagnosis using the ultrasonography (US)-guided core-needle biopsy (CNB) of the lymph node.

Methods

Lymph node CNBs of 1119 consecutive patients from the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital were reviewed retrospectively. Biopsies were performed following outpatient procedures with direct US guiding by using 18-gauge cutting needle. The tissues of CNB were prepared according to the routine paraffin embedding and hematoxylin-eosin staining. Ancillary studies, including acid-fast staining and immunohistochemical staining, were performed when necessary.

Results

The age range was 1 year old to 85 years old. Locations of the lymph node were as follows: cervical area (n=482), clavicular region (n=227), retroperitoneum (n=150), axilla (n=93), groin (n=79), abdomen/mesentery (n=44), submaxillary region (n=33), postauricular region (n=4), iliac fosa (n=3), parotid (n=2), hepatic hilar region (n=1), and elbow (n=1). The histological diagnoses were conclusive in 815 cases (73%) and inconclusive in 304 cases (27%). The conclusive cases mainly included metastatic carcinoma (n=449), tuberculosis (n=111), lymphoma/leukemia (n=124), reactive hyperplasia (n=87), and other rare diseases (n=44). The reasons for inconclusive cases were insufficient material for diagnosis, noncompliance of outpatients, or crushing artifacts of tissues caused by operation.

Conclusions

US-guided CNB can obtain lymphoid tissues from nearly all parts of the body for diagnostic purposes. Conclusive pathological diagnosis can be made in most of cases when adequate material was provided. Besides metastatic carcinoma, lymphomas with special immunophenotype can be accurately diagnosed and subclassified by US-guided CNB.
GATA3 siRNA inhibits the binding of NFAT1 to interleukin-13 promoter in human T cells
Authors: YAO Xin , YANG Yan , HE Hai-yan , WANG Min , YIN Kai-sheng , HUANG Mao
Published: January 2024

Background

Interleukin-13 (IL-13) is recognized to be a key modulator in the pathogenesis of Th2-induced allergic inflammation. Transcription factors GATA3 and NFAT1 have been both implicated in the regulation of Th2 cytokines. We previously demonstrated the GATA3-NFAT1 association during human T cell activation. However, the function of the GATA3-NFAT1 complex in Th2 cytokines regulation is still unknown. Small interference RNA (siRNA) was constructed to knock down GATA3 expression in Hut-78 cells to investigate the possible role of GATA3-NFAT1 complex in IL-13 transcription.

Methods

Cells were stimulated with anti-CD3 plus anti-CD28 antibodies to mimic in vivo antigen-mediated co-stimulation; the expression of IL-13 mRNA was determined by real-time PCR; chromation immunoprecipitation (CHIP) assay was employed to investigate the NFAT1 binding to IL-13 promoter.

Results

GATA3 siRNA suppressed the expression of GATA3 both in mRNA and protein levels in Hut-78 cells. The binding of NFAT1 to IL-13 promoter was inhibited by GATA3 siRNA in activated T cells, which was followed by the reduction of IL-13 transcription.

Conclusion

GATA3-NFAT1 complex may play an important role in the regulation of IL-13 transcription in human T cells.
Influence of drug treatment on glucocorticoid receptor levels in patients with coronary heart disease
Authors: JI Hong , GUO Wei-zao , YAN Zhi-hong , LI Di , LU Cui-lian
Published: January 2024

Background

Glucocorticoid signaling exerts major roles in inflammation, metabolism and depression, which are three crucial factors accompanying or underlying coronary heart disease. Although accumulating evidence indicates the influence of glucocorticoids on the pathology and treatment of coronary heart disease, there is still a dearth of pharmaceutical mechanisms for this relationship. This study aimed to investigate the influence of drug treatment on glucocorticoid receptor levels in coronary heart disease.

Methods

Eighty hospitalized patients (average age (59.0±7.5) years, 46 male and 34 female) with coronary heart disease were categorized into four groups with 20 members in each according to one of the four drugs they were treated with. The four drugs were: nitrated derivative isosorbide dinitrate, the beta-adrenergic receptor blocker metoprolol, the calcium antagonist nifedipine, and the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor lovastatin. Glucocorticoid receptor protein levels of peripheral blood lymphocytes were tested using immunoblotting analysis before and after one month of treatment.

Results

Immunoblotting analysis showed increased glucocorticoid receptor levels after treatment with metoprolol and nifedipine. There were no statistically significant changes of glucocorticoid receptor levels after treatment with isosorbide dinitrate or lovastatin, although there were trends of up-regulation of glucocorticoid receptor expression after both treatments.

Conclusions

Both the beta-blocker and the calcium blocker can increase glucocorticoid receptor levels after chronic administration. This effect suggests a mechanism for their anti-inflammatory and other therapeutic roles for coronary heart disease and comorbid disorders.
Epidemiology of pterygium in aged rural population of Beijing, China
Authors: LIANG Qing-feng , XU Liang , JIN Xiu-ying , YOU Qi-sheng , YANG Xiao-hui , CUI Tong-tong
Published: January 2024

Background

Pterygium is a common ophthalmic disease and an important public health problem. It may be affected by many factors such as age, gender, ultraviolet radiation exposure, and time spent outdoors. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of pterygium and evaluate the risk factors for the development of pterygium in the aged rural population of Beijing.

Methods

The investigation is a population-based cross-sectional study. Participants from 198 villages of 13 suburban districts, aged 55–85 years old, were invited to complete a medical record, and 37 067 individuals were taken external ocular and fundus photos at Beijing ocular disease survey in 2008–2009. The information was uploaded by Internet and diagnosed with stages and grades by ophthalmological specialists. The prevalence, stages and grades of pterygia were observed.

Results

Of the 37 067 individuals, 1395 (3.76%) had pterygium. There was a significantly higher prevalence in male (5.13%) than in female (3.17%, P=0.000). The prevelence rate increased obviously with ages (χ2=7.939, P=0.019) in rural Beijing. The average prevalence of 5.91% in Daxing and Fangshan districts with low latitude and low precipitation was significantly higher than that in Miyun and Huairou districts with high latitude and deep precipitation (3.17%, P=0.000). The majority of the pterygia (43.5%) were in active stage and 46.5% pterygia involved pupil area corneas.

Conclusions

There is a statistically significant association between latitude and precipitation of habitation region and pterygium formation. Solar radiation, especially ultraviolet exposure represents a significant environment hazard to pterygium development.
Cigarette smoke extract promotes proliferation of airway smooth muscle cells in asthmatic rats via regulating cyclin D1 expression
Authors: ZHANG Xiao-yu , XU Yong-jian , LIU Xian-sheng , ZHANG Zhen-xiang
Published: January 2024

Background

Increased proliferation of airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) are observed in asthmatic patients and smoking can accelerate proliferation of ASMCs in asthma. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms leading to these changes, we studied in vitro the effect of cigarette smoke extract (CSE) on the proliferation of ASMCs and the expression of cyclin D1, an important regulatory protein implicated in cell cycle.

Methods

ASMCs cultured from 8 asthmatic Brown Norway rats were studied. Cells between passage 3 and 6 were used in the study and were divided into control group, pcDNA3.1 group, pcDNA3.1-antisense cyclin D1 (ascyclin D1) group, CSE group, CSE+pcDNA3.1 group and CSE+pcDNA3.1-ascyclin D1 group based on the conditions for intervention. The proliferation of ASMCs was examined with cell cycle analysis, MTT colorimetric assay and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) immunocytochemical staining. The expression of cyclin D1 was detected by reverse transcriptase-PCR (RT-PCR) and Western blotting.

Results

(1) The percentage of S+G2M phase, absorbance value at 490 nm wavelength (A490) and the expression rate of PCNA protein in CSE group were (31.22±1.17)%, 0.782±0.221, (90.2±7.0)% respectively, which were significantly increased compared with those of control group ((18.36±1.02)%, 0.521±0.109, and (54.1±3.5)%, respectively) (P <0.01). After the transfection with antisense cyclin D1 plasmid for 30 hours, the percentage of S+G2M phase, A490 and the expression rate of PCNA protein in ASMCs were much lower than in untreated cells (P <0.01). (2) The ratios of A490 of cyclin D1 mRNA in CSE group was 0.288±0.034, which was significantly increased compared with that of control group (0.158±0.006) (P <0.01). After the transfection with antisense cyclin D1 plasmid for 30 hours, the ratios of A490 of cyclin D1 mRNA in ASMCs was much lower than in untreated cells (P <0.01). (3) The ratios of A490 of cyclin D1 protein expression in CSE group was 0.375±0.008, which was significantly increased compared with that of control group (0.268±0.004) (P <0.01). After the transfection with antisense cyclin D1 plasmid for 30 hours, the ratios of A490 of cyclin D1 protein expression in ASMCs was much lower than in untreated cells (P <0.01).

Conclusion

CSE may increase the proliferation of ASMCs in asthmatic rats via regulating cyclin D1 expression.
Effect of cholinesterase inhibitor galanthamine on circulating tumor necrosis factor alpha in rats with lipopolysaccharide- induced peritonitis
Authors: LIU Zhi-hai , MA Yue-feng , WU Jun-song , GAN Jian-xin , XU Shao-wen , JIANG Guan-yu
Published: January 2024

Background

The nervous system, through the vagus nerve and its neurotransmitter acetylcholine, can down-regulate the systemic inflammation in vivo, and recently, a role of brain cholinergic mechanisms in activating this cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway has been indicated. Galanthamine is a cholinesterase inhibitor and one of the centrally acting cholinergic agents available in clinic. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of galanthamine on circulating tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in rats with lipopolysaccharide-induced peritonitis and the possible role of the vagus nerve in the action of galanthamine.

Methods

Rat models of lipopolysaccharide-induced peritonitis and bilateral cervical vagotomy were produced. In the experiment 1, the rats were randomly divided into control group, peritonitis group, and peritonitis groups treated with three dosages of galanthamine. In the experiment 2, the rats were randomly divided into sham group, sham plus peritonitis group, sham plus peritonitis group treated with galanthamine, vagotomy plus peritonitis group, and vagotomy plus peritonitis group treated with galanthamine. The levels of plasma TNF-α were determined in every group.

Results

The level of circulating TNF-α was significantly increased in rats after intraperitoneal injection of endotoxin. Galanthamine treatment decreased the level of circulating TNF-α in rats with lipopolysaccharide-induced peritonitis, and there was significant difference compared with rats with lipopolysaccharide-induced peritonitis without treatment. The 3 mg/kg dosage of galanthamine had the most significant inhibition on circulating TNF-α level at all the three tested doses. Galanthamine obviously decreased the TNF-α level in rats with lipopolysaccharide-induced peritonitis with sham operation, but could not decrease the TNF-α level in rats with lipopolysaccharide-induced peritonitis with vagotomy. Conclusion Cholinesterase inhibitor galanthamine has an inhibitory effect on TNF-α release in rats with lipopolysaccharide-induced peritonitis, and the vagus nerve plays a role in the process of the action of galanthamine.

Chin Med J 2010;123(13):1727–1730
In vitro osteoclast-suppressing effect of sodium ibandronate
Authors: ZHANG Wei , YANG Da-long , WANG Yun-xia , WANG Hui-wang , ZHEN Zeng-jiang , ZHANG Ying-ze , SHEN Yong
Published: January 2024

Background

Bisphosphonates (BPs) have been reported to reduce local recurrence in giant cell tumor (GCT) of bone because of their osteoclast-suppressing effect; however, the optimal mode of delivery and the dose and duration of treatment of BPs remain to be established. To address these issues, it is first necessary to clarify the manner of action of BPs on osteoclasts. We herein evaluated the osteoclast-suppressing effect of sodium ibandronate in vitro.

Methods

Mouse osteoclasts (OCLs) were generated in vitro using mouse bone marrow mononuclear cells. First, various concentrations of sodium ibandronate and equal amounts of phosphate-buffered saline were added to cell culture media. The number of multinucleated cells (over three nuclei) was recorded in each group, OCL formation was compared, and the most effective concentration of sodium ibandronate was determined. Then, high concentrations of sodium ibandronate were added to the experimental cell culture media; no ibandronate was given in the control group. Comparisons were made between the two groups in terms of OCL adhesion, migration, and bone resorption.

Results

OCL formation was suppressed by sodium ibandronate in vitro; the most pronounced effect was observed at the concentration of 10-5 mol/L. OCL migration and bone resorption were significantly suppressed at this concentration, though there was no effect on OCL adhesion.

Conclusions

Sodium ibandronate was effective in suppressing OCLs and decreasing resorption in GCT. The strong anti-OCL effectiveness at a high concentration in vitro indicates a topical mode of application.
Role of diffusion-weighted imaging in early ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: PAN Chu , HU Dao-yu , ZHANG Wei , LI Xiao-ming
Published: January 2024

Background

With the advanced MRI techniques, pathologic features can be detected at an early stage and quantitatively evaluated, resulting in the advantages of early diagnosis and prompt treatment. This study aimed to determine the value of diffusion-weighted MR imaging (DWI) in detection of early ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and investigate the characteristic manifestations of AS on whole body DWI (WB-DWI).

Methods

Twenty patients with the diagnosis of early AS, twenty patients with low back pain (LBP), and twenty-five healthy volunteers were included in this study. The subchondral bone apparent diffusion coefficients (ADC) among these groups in the bilateral ilia and sacrum along the sacroiliac joints were compared. An independent sample t-test was utilized to analyze ADC value differences among groups. P-values less than 0.05 denoted statistical significance. The mean ADC values of focal DWI lesions in AS patients were also measured. Whole body diffusion-weighted imaging was performed in fifteen additional AS patients, and analyzed with MIP and MPR techniques in comparison to conventional MR images in order to evaluate the ability to detect AS lesions with whole body DWI.

Results

Mean ADC values in AS patients were (0.518±0.122)×10-3 mm2/s in the ilium and (0.503±0.168)×10-3 mm2/s in the sacrum. These were significantly greater than the values measured in the ilium and sacrum of LBP patients, (0.328±0.053)×10-3 mm2/s in the ilium and (0.311±0.081)×10-3 m2/s in the sacrum, and control group, (0.325±0.015)×10-3 mm2/s in the ilium and (0.318±0.011)×10-3 mm2/s in the sacrum respectively. No statistically significant differences were found between LBP group and control group. The mean ADC value of focal DWI lesions in early AS patients was (0. 899±0.265)×10-3 mm2/s, which was significantly higher than that of adjacent normal-appearance areas ((0.454±0.079)×10-3 mm2/s). WB-DWI detected abnormalities in the 15 additional AS patients both within the sacroiliac joints and at other sites, corresponding to the clinical symptoms of the patients. The mean ADC value of focal DWI lesions of this patient cohort was (1.286±0.311)×10-3 mm2/s in the sacrum and (1.220±0.299) ×10-3 mm2/s in the ilium.

Conclusions

Subchondral marrow ADC values of subchondral marrows near the sacroiliac joints allow for the differentiation of patients with early AS from normal volunteers and LBP patients. Combined with post-processing techniques such as MIP and MPR, WB-DWI allows for the comprehensive assessment of AS patients, an evaluation potentially helpful in determining prognosis and following the therapeutic response.
Recipient dendritic cells modified by RNA interference targeting CD80 and CD86 elicit T cell hyporesponsiveness via enhanced T cell apoptosis
Authors: HONG Jun , GU Xiao-dong , XIANG Jian-bin , ZHANG Zhe , ZANG Yi-wen , ZHANG Qun-hua , QIAN Shi-guang , CHEN Zong-you
Published: January 2024

Background

Despite extensive research, the mechanism of immature dendritic cells (DCs) induced immune hyporesponsiveness remains incompletely understood.

Methods

Recipient DCs from C3H mouse bone marrow cells were incubated with donor antigen from splenic lymphocytes of C57BL/6 mouse; these DCs were transfected with CD80/86 specific siRNA using lentiviral vectors. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate expression of CD80/86 on the antigen-pulsed recipient DCs. Immune regulatory activity was examined by mixed lymphocyte reaction, in which irradiated DCs were cultured with C3H spleen T cells. After the reaction, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-10, and interferon (INF)-γ levels of mixed lymphocyte reaction culture supernatant were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The apoptotic T lymphocytes were identified by Annexin V and CD3 staining.

Results

There was a significant inhibition of CD80/86 expression in DCs transfected with CD80/86 lentiviral vectors compared with the control groups (P <0.05), indicating the specificity of RNA interference. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay results showed a significant reduction of INF-γ, IL-2 and IL-10 in the CD80/86 lentivirus transfected group compared to the control groups (P <0.05). There was no significant difference in IL-4 levels between the groups (P >0.05). We also showed that CD80/86 low DCs loaded with alloantigen (1) stimulated low T cell proliferative responses via the indirect recognition pathway and (2) enhanced apoptotic activity (P <0.05) in co-cultured T cells.

Conclusions

Lentiviral vector transfection can effectively and specifically knock down target genes in DCs. The CD80/86 low DCs may show tolerogenic activity via induction of T-cell apoptosis, thereby modulating the activity of recipient-derived DCs. The use of this approach may potentially be clinically applicable.
Influence of dietary patterns on the risk of acute myocardial infarction in China population: the INTERHEART China study
Authors: GUO Jin , LI Wei , WANG Yang , CHEN Tao , Teo Koon , LIU Li-sheng
Published: January 2024

Background

Some dietary patterns are risk factors for acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Chinese traditional food and habits vary from other cultures. The present study determined whether different dietary patterns were associated with AMI in Chinese people.

Methods

We conducted a case-control study. There were 1312 cases of first AMI and 2235 control subjects who did not have previous angina, diabetes mellitus, hypertension or stroke. Controls were matched to cases on age and gender. Diet was measured with a validated, 19 item food frequency questionnaire. We identified three major dietary patterns using factor analysis: vitamin and microelement pattern (high intake of vegetables, fruits and tofu), carbohydrate pattern (high in grain), and fat and protein pattern (high in meat, fish, eggs and fried foods).

Results

After adjusting for all risk factors, the vitamin and microelement pattern was inversely associated with AMI risk (global P value, 0.0001). Compared with the first quartile, the adjusted ORs of AMI were 0.81 (95% CI: 0.66-1.00) for the second quartile, 0.67 (95% CI: 0.54-0.82) for the third, and 0.70 (95% CI: 0.56-0.88) for the fourth. Several dietary frequencies (serves per week) including vegetables, fruits and tofu were closely associated with decrease of AMI risk. Carbohydrate pattern showed weak relationship with AMI. We observed a U-shaped association between frequencies of fat and protein pattern and AMI risk. Excessive fat intake increased the AMI risk. The adjusted OR of AMI associated with the higher level of green vegetables was 0.37 (95% CI: 0.24-0.57) in women and 0.65 (95% CI: 0.51-0.82) in men (P value for heterogeneity, 0.0140).

Conclusions

Unhealthy dietary intake can increase the AMI risk. Improving intake of vegetables, fruits and tofu have the potential to partially prevent the rising epidemic of cardiovascular disease in China.
Effect of trichostatin A and paclitaxel on the proliferation and apoptosis of lung adenocarcinoma cells
Authors: ZHANG Song , ZHANG Qun-cheng , JIANG Shu-juan
Published: January 2024

Background

Histone deacetylase inhibitors can regulate gene expression through modulation of the degree of acetylation of histone and non-histone, thus affecting cell proliferation, survival and chemosensitivity. Histone deacetylase inhibitors combined with paclitaxel may enhance the inhibitory effect of drugs on lung cancer cells. This study aimed to observe the effect of trichostatin A (TSA)/paclitaxel on the proliferation and apoptosis in human A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells, and to investigate its mechanism.

Methods

A549 cells were cultured in Dulbecco modified Eagle's medium (DMEM) in the presence of paclitaxel and the histone deacetylase inhibitor TSA, and the growth curve was obtained by trypan-blue exclusion assay and cell count. Apoptosis was assessed using Hoechst 33258 staining and flow cytometry analysis, and cell cycle was detected by flow cytometry analysis. The proteins poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP), caspase-3, survivin, and tubulin acetylation were detected by Western blotting.

Results

A significant reduction of proliferation was observed in A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells treated by paclitaxel or TSA. Combined treatment with TSA/paclitaxel caused the greatest inhibition of cell proliferation. The combined treatment with TSA and paclitaxel induced more severe apoptosis, and significantly more cells were arrested in G2/M phase (P <0.05) then with a single drug. Using Western blotting, we demonstrated that treatment with TSA/paclitaxel led to synergistic increase in acetylated tubulin, PARP, caspase-3, and reduced the expression of survivin.

Conclusion TSA and paclitaxel have a synergistic activity that can inhibit cell growth and induce apoptosis.
Bone cement enhanced pedicle screw fixation combined with vertebroplasty for elderly patients with malignant spinal tumors
Authors: TAN Jiang-wei , SHEN Bing-hua , DU Wei , LIU Jiang-qing , LU Shi-qiao
Published: January 2024

Background

Older patients with malignant spinal tumors are difficult to treat because they have many co-morbidities including osteoporosis. The purpose of this research is to discuss the technique and clinical outcome of bone cement enhanced pedicle screw fixation combined with vertebroplasty (the Sandwich Procedure) for elderly patients with severe osteoporosis and malignant spinal tumors.

Methods

This study includes 28 consecutive elderly patients with malignant thoracic or lumbar spinal tumors. There were nine patients with myelomas, and 19 patients with metastatic bone tumors. The Sandwich Procedure began with curettage of the tumor and a vertebroplasty with bone cement (polymethyl methacrylate, PMMA), followed by PMMA enhanced pedicle screw fixation. Patients were evaluated with the visual analogue scale (VAS), oswestry disability index (ODI), American Spinal Cord Injury Association (ASIA) neurological function classification, and the radiographic degree of kyphosis (Cobb angle). Data were analyzed using paired t-test to compare the pre- and post-operative values. The complications, local recurrences, and the survival status were also recorded.

Results

There was no operative mortality, and the mean operative time was 210 minutes (range 150-250 minutes). The average blood loss was 1550 ml (range 650-3300 ml). The average amount of cement for vertebroplasty was 3.6 ml (range 3-5 ml). The VAS, ODI, and ASIA scores were significantly improved after surgery (P <0.05). However, we found no differences between the pre and post-operative Cobb angles. The shortest survival time was 3 months, and we found no evidence of local recurrence in this group of patients.

Conclusion

The Sandwich Procedure is a safe operation and provides symptomatic relief in these difficult patients, permitting further treatment with chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
Tumor biomarkers: help or mislead in the diagnosis of xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis?--analysis of serum CA 19-9, carcinoembryonic antigen, and CA 12-5
Authors: YU Hong , YU Tu-nan , CAI Xiu-jun
Published: January 2024

Background

Xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis (XGC) is a rare type of gallbladder inflammation. Unlike other cholecystitis, it can be easily misdiagnosed as gallbladder cancer based on radiological images. In response to misdiagnosis, extended surgical treatments are inappropriately given to patients, which is not beneficial to their health and/or recovery. In this study, we set out to determine whether tumor biomarkers can help to avoid misdiagnosis in patients with XGC.

Methods

Between January 2005 and January 2012, a total of 37 preoperative patients at Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital were suspicious of having gallbladder cancer and was pathologically confirmed to be XGC after surgical operations. Before operations, all patients received a tumor biomarker test to verify diagnosis, which included serum CA 19-9, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), and CA 12-5.

Results

A measured amount (54.05%) of cases (20 in 37) had at least one elevation over the thresholds of CA 19-9 (37 IU/L), CEA (5 ng/ml), and CA 12-5 (35 IU/L), which increased the suspicion of malignancy and consequently enhanced the difficulty to make right diagnosis of XGC as benign. 45.95% of cases (17 in 37) had an elevation in CA 19-9. 2.70% of cases (one in 37) had an elevation in CEA and 24.32% of cases (nine in 37) had an elevation in CA 12-5. Analysis with Fisher's exact test discovered that the presence of common bile duct stone was a contributor to elevations of CA19-9 in patients with XGC. However, even in cases without common bile duct stones, 42.86% of patients (nine in 21) had elevations of at least one tumor biomarker. Among them, 26.09% of patients (six in 21) had elevations of CA 19-9, with the maximum of 536.29 IU/L.

Conclusions

The elevations of tumor biomarkers in XGC were frequent, suggesting their inabilities to clarify the disease's nature, especially when there was a suspicion of gallbladder cancer. Intraoperative frozen pathology of gallbladder might be a possible solution. However, it is against the en bloc surgical principle and has the potential to cause tumor cell spreading. More research should be conducted, such as the discovery of a novel biomarker, so that XGC can less likely be misdiagnosed as malignancy until the final pathological judgment.
Effects of sorafenib combined with chemoembolization and radiofrequency ablation for large, unresectable hepatocellular carcinomas
Authors: LIANG Heng-Yi , LU Li-Gong , HU Bao-Shan , LI Yong , SHAO Pei-Jian
Published: January 2024

Background

The prognosis of unresectable large hepatocellular carcinomas is poor. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of sorafenib combined with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization and radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinomas larger than 5 cm.

Methods

The treatment of 22 patients with large, unresectable hepatocellular carcinomas (5.0-16.5 cm) treated with sorafenib after transcatheter arterial chemoembolization combined with radiofrequency ablation between 2007 and 2011 was reviewed. The local effects, survival rates, toxicity, and prognostic factors were analyzed.

Results

During a follow-up of 9-49 months, 19 patients died and three survived. The median overall survival was 32 months. The overall cumulative 12, 24, and 36-month survival rates were 85.9%, 66.8%, and 23.5% respectively. Technical effectiveness was achieved in 12 out of 28 lesions (42.85%) at the first CT check. The median time to tumor progression was 21 months. The progression-free survival rates at 6, 12, and 24 months were 90.9%, 72.0%, and 38.4%, respectively. Combined therapy was generally well tolerated. There was only one major procedure-related complication, biloma (4.5%). Sorafenib-related adverse events exceeding grade 3 were hand-foot skin reaction (2/22, 9.1%), gastrointestinal hemorrhage (1/22, 4.5%), and diarrhea (2/22, 9.1%). The absence of vascular invasion before treatment was found to be the best prognostic factor in the univariate analysis.

Conclusions

Sorafenib combined with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization and radiofrequency ablation is a promising approach to the treatment of large, unresectable hepatocellular carcinomas. However, large-scale randomized clinical trials are needed to determine the future role of this treatment.