bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visual function and morphological changes in the macular area of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus after intensive insulin therapy
Authors: Chen Zhenguo , Zhang Jiayu , Lu Chunjie , Lin Sisi , Chen Jiawei , Zhong Hongliang , Tian Bei , Wei Wenbin
Published: January 2024

Background

Intensive insulin therapy has been found to lessen the progress of diabetic retinopathy (DR) to some extent, while it has also been implicated to be responsible for decrease of DR. We investigated visual function and morphological changes in the macular area in short-term follow-up of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus after intensive insulin therapy.

Methods

This was a prospective clinical study of nonproliferative DR patients (102 eyes, 120 patients) undergoing intensive insulin therapy. The Contrast Glare Tester (Takagi CGT-1000) was used to examine contrast sensitivity (CS) and Heidelberg Retina Tomograph (HRT) II and Stratus Model 3000 OCT were used to observe the changes of morphology in the macular area. Follow-up times were pre-intensive therapy, 3 and 6 months post-intensive therapy.

Results

CS at low and middle frequencies was higher at 3 and 6 months post-therapy compared with pre-therapy (P <0.05). Significant differences in CS at low frequency were found between 6 and 3 months post-therapy (P <0.05). Macular edema index was lower in the first, second, and third rings of the macular area after intensive therapy compared with pre-therapy (P <0.05). Compared with 3 months post-therapy, the macular edema index was lower in the first, second, and third rings of the macular area at 6 months post-therapy (P >0.05). No significant differences in the thickness of the first, second, and third rings of the macular area were detected between 3 and 6 months post-therapy and pre-therapy (P >0.05).

Conclusion

CS and macular edema indexes were significantly improved in nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy patients after intensive insulin therapy, but thickness of the macular area was unchanged.
Diagnostic values of combination of free running asthma screening test and total serum allergen IgE level in children with asthma
Authors: Chen Xin , Li Yong , Zeng Meiying
Published: January 2024

Background

A free running asthma screening test is usually used for screening exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. The total serum allergen IgE level can reveal the patient's atopy characteristics. Our study is to evaluate the diagnostic values of the combination of the two tests in asthmatic children and compare this new diagnostic method with the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISSAC) questionnaires and the bronchial provocation test, which are popular diagnostic tool for pediatric asthma.

Methods

A total of 773 school children were recruited in this study. The children's asthma was diagnosed by means of a combination of the free running asthma screening test and total serum allergen IgE level. The new diagnostic method value was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and compared with other diagnostic tools such as ISSAC questionnaires and the bronchial provocation test.

Results

The AUC of this new diagnostic method was higher than 0.9. When the cut-off value of total serum allergen IgE level was ≥47 KU/L, the sensitivity and the specificity were 71.4% and 85.1%, respectively, which were better than those of either the ISSAC questionnaires or bronchial provocation test.

Conclusion

The combination of the free running asthma screening test and total serum allergen IgE level may be an effective diagnostic tool for children's asthma.
Gestational weight gain and risk of gestational diabetes mellitus among Chinese women
Authors: Liu Zheng , Ao Deng , Yang Huixia , Wang Yan
Published: January 2024

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common complication during pregnancy, and gestational weight gain is one of the major and modifiable risk factors. This study aims to estimate the relationship between the rate of gestational weight gain before diagnosis of GDM and the subsequent risk of GDM.

Methods

A case-control study was conducted with 90 GDM cases and 165 women in the control group from May 2012 to August 2012 at Peking University First Affiliated Hospital. GDM was diagnosed according to the standards issued by the Ministry of Health of China in 2011. The plasma glucose levels, weights, and covariate data of the women were obtained based on medical records. Univariate analysis and unconditional Logistic regression model were used to estimate the associations.

Results

After adjusting for age at delivery, parity, and pre-pregnancy body mass index, the risk of GDM increased with increasing rates of gestational weight gain. Compared with the lower rate of gestational weight gain (less than 0.28 kg per week), a rate of weight gain of 0.28 kg per week or more was associated with increased risk of GDM (odds ratio: 2.03; 95% confidence interval: 1.15 to 3.59). The association between the rate of gestational weight gain and GDM was primarily attributed to the increased weight gain in the first trimester.

Conclusion

High rates of gestational weight gain, particular during early pregnancy, may increase a woman's risk of GDM.
Clinical implications and prognostic value of single and combined biomarkers in endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Mingzhu Li , Lijun Zhao , Danhua Shen , Xiaoping Li , Jianliu Wang , Lihui Wei
Published: January 2024

Background

Endometrial carcinoma is one of the most common gynecological cancers and the incidence has been increasing. This study was to identify the relationship of estrogen receptor (ER), progestrone receptor (PR), P53 protein, Ki-67 and phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN) with endometrial carcinoma, the assessment of these biomarkers and their association with clinicopathological parameters was performed.

Methods

A total of 198 cases of primary endometrial carcinoma were investigated for ER, PR, Ki-67, P53, and PTEN antigens by immunohistochemical methods. The association of these markers with age, menopause status, histological type, FIGO stage, grading, depth of invasion, lymph node involvement and serum tumor marker was examined.

Results

The percentages of Ki-67- and P53-negative endometrial tumors were significantly higher in ER-positive compared with ER-negative tumors (both P=0.000). The same trend was evident with PR status. The percentage of PTEN-positive tumors was significantly higher in PR-positive compared with PR-negative tumors (P=0.021), but was no difference in tumors with different ER status. There was no clear association between PTEN positivity and clinicopathological parameters except more relevance with endometrioid histotype (P=0.013). There was a statistically significant difference in the distribution of the different combined biological factors examined in disease-free survival.

Conclusions

ER and PR status were significant predictors with staging, grading and recurrence. P53 and Ki-67 expression were inversely correlated with both ER and PR expression and have more aggressive clinicopathological features. PTEN expression was inversely correlated with PR expression but not with ER expression. The combined type of ER+PR+P53-PTEN+ was in the majority in endometrial cancer and seemed to be related to better clinical outcome. The combination of ER-PR-P53+PTEN- represented the worst disease-free survival and was strongly associated with poorest survival rate.
Differences and determinants in access to essential public health services in China: a case study with hypertension people and under-sixes as target population
Authors: Niu Hongli , Tian Miaomiao , Ma Anning , Wang Chunping , Zhang Liang
Published: January 2024

Background

Since 2009, health reform had launched in China and essential public health services were provided for all residents to ensure service equity and accessibility, and to achieve sustained population-wide health improvement. This study aimed to investigate the differences and determinants among populations with different characteristics access to essential public health services in China, especially hypertension people and children aged 0-6 years.

Methods

A cross-sectional study with socio-demographic data analysis was undertaken to estimate distribution characteristics of receiving essential public health services of hypertension patients and children. Regular follow-ups and effective blood pressure control reflected the effective management for hypertension patients, and for children, public services provided were vaccination on schedule and regular physical check-up. Logistic regression was used to determine the predictors for effective management.

Results

A total of 1 505 hypertension patients and 749 children were involved; 39.14% of hypertension participants could control their blood pressure in the normal range, and the rate in urban areas (43.61%) was higher than that in rural (31.88%). And 34.68% of them could receive more than 4 times follow-ups by the medical technician. Of 754 children, 79.84% could receive the periodic physical examination and 98.40% had vaccinated regularly. Children living in rural areas were more likely to have regular check-ups (83.96%) and regular vaccination (nearly 99%). Overall, geographic location and education level were the determinants of people access to essential public health services.

Conclusions

Implementation of the health reform since 2009 has headed China’s public health system in the right direction and promoted the improvement of public health system development. Our study highlights the growing needs for more public health services in China, and China’s public health system needs to be greatly improved in terms of its quality and accessibility.
Iloprost inhibits fracture repair in rats
Authors: Doğan Ali , Duygun Fatih , Kalender Murat A. , Bayram Irfan , Sungur Ibrahim
Published: January 2024

Background

Previous studies have shown that prostaglandins (PGs) dramatically stimulate healing processes in bone. However, the effect of prostaglandin I2 (PGI2) on fracture healing remains unclear. To investigate the effect of PGI2, a study on fracture healing process in closed tibia fractures was designed.

Methods

Thirty-six Sprague-Dawley male rats were randomized into two groups. On the first day, their right tibias were fractured by three-point bending technique. The study group (n=18) received a single injection of 10 μg/kg iloprost for 5 days, while the control group (n=18) received saline solution in the same way. On the 7th, 14th and 28th days following the fracture, six rats were sacrificed and their right legs were harvested in each group. The progression of fracture healing was assessed for each specimen by the scores of radiography (by Lane-Sandhu) and histology (by Huo et al).

Results

On the 7th day, the radiographic and histologic scores were equal. On the 14th day radiographic total score was 6 and histologic total score was 23 in the iloprost group, whereas radiographic total score was 11 and histologic total score was 33 in the control group. On the 14th day radiographic and histologic scores were significantly decreased in the iloprost group compared to the control group (P <0.05). On the 28th day radiographic total score was 12 and histologic total score was 37 in the iloprost group, whereas radiographic total score was 15 and histologic total score was 40 in the control group. On the 28th day although there was a decrease in radiographic and histologic scores of the iloprost group acording to control group, it was not statistically significant (P >0.05).

Conclusion

Iloprost delays fracture healing in early stage in rats.
Clinical features and treatment status of hemifacial spasm in China
Authors: Wang Lin , Hu Xingyue , Dong Hongjuan , Wang Wenzhao , Huang Yue , Jin Lingjing , Luo Yumin , Zhang Weixi , Lian Yajun , Liang Zhanhua , Shang Huifang , Feng Yabo , Wu Yiwen , Chen Jun , Luo Weifeng , Wan Xinhua
Published: January 2024

Background

Hemifacial spasm (HFS) is a facial nerve disorder characterized by episodic involuntary ipsilateral facial muscle contraction. Information on Chinese patients with HFS has not been well-characterized. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical feature and the treatment status of HFS across China.

Methods

A cross-sectional study including 1003 primary HFS patients had been carried out in 15 movement disorder clinics in China in 2012. The investigated information was acquired from questionnaires and medical records including demographic data, site of onset, aggravating and relieving factors, treatments prior to the investigation, etc.

Results

In this study, the ratio of male to female was 1.0:1.8, the mean age at onset was (46.6±11.5) years. About 1.0% patients were bilaterally affected. The most often site of initial onset was the orbicularis oculi muscle. The most often affected sites were orbicularis oculi, zygomatic, and orbicularis oris muscles. Stress/anxiety and relaxation were most often aggravating and relieving factors, respectively; 2.3% patients had family history, 28.4% cases were combined with hypertension, and 1.4% patients were with trigeminal neuralgia. Botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) injection was the most commonly used treatment, followed by acupuncture and oral medication. BTX-A maintained the highest repeat treatment ratio (68.7%), while 98.4% patients gave up acupuncture. The mean latency of BTX-A effect was (5.0±4.7) days, the mean total duration of the effect was (19.5±11.7) weeks, and 95.9% patients developed improvements no worse than moderate in both severity and function. The most common side effect was droopy mouth.

Conclusions

The onset age of HFS in China is earlier than that in western countries. The most often used two treatments are BTX-A injection and acupuncture, while the latter kept the poor repeat treatment ratio because of dissatisfactory therapeutic effect.
Effects of lead exposure on placental cellular apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress in rats
Authors: Wang Yunying , Hu Haiyan , Li Hong , Ma Haiyan , Xu Fengsen , Qu Baoming
Published: January 2024

Background

Lead exposure during pregnancy contributes to fetal abortion and/or teratogenesis. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) apoptosis can be induced by various pathological conditions when ER function is disturbed. However, it is unclear whether ER stress and apoptosis play a role in the etiology of lead-exposed disease status. We aimed to investigate whether lead induced placental apoptosis and subsequent toxicity is initiated by ER apoptosis via caspase-12.

Methods

Sixty-three female Wistar rats were exposed to lead in drinking water during various gestational periods. Blood lead level was determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Placental cytoplasmic organelles were examined by electronic microscopy. Placental caspase-12 mRNA expression was evaluated by qRT-PCR. TUNEL assay was used to determine the placental apoptosis.

Results

Lead exposure significant induced ER apoptosis compared to that of the controls (P <0.05), accompanied with increased caspase-12 mRNA expression. Significant differences of caspase-12 mRNA expression levels were observed among the four groups (F=13.78, P <0.05). Apoptotic index (AI) was significantly increased in experimental groups compared to that of the controls (F=96.15, P <0.05). In lead-exposed groups, trophoblast cells underwent degeneration and fibrin deposition; Mitochondria were swollen and decreased in number; ER swelling, expansion, and vacuolization were observed.

Conclusion

Lead exposure contributes to placental apoptosis, as well as increased caspase-12 mRNA expression, which in turn promoted ER stress.
Gene expression profiles of ERCC1, TYMS, RRM1, TUBB3 and EGFR in tumor tissue from non-small cell lung cancer patients
Authors: Daping Yu , Jie Li , Yi Han , Shuku Liu , Ning Xiao , Yunsong Li , Xiaojun Sun , Zhidong Liu
Published: January 2024

Background

Personalized medicine becomes essential in lung cancer treatment, however lung-cancer-related gene expression profiles in Chinese patients remain unknown. In this study, the correlation of gene expression profiles and clinical characteristics in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) was investigated.

Methods

Seventy-six Chinese patients with NSCLC were enrolled in the study to investigate mRNA expression profiles of excision repair cross complement group 1 (ERCC1), thymidylate synthetase (TYMS), ribonucleotide reductase (RRM1), class III β-tubulin (TUBB3), and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) genes and their correlation with patient clinical characteristics. A novel liquidchip technology was used to detect mRNA expression levels in formalin fixed paraffin embedded tumor pathology samples. The relationships between gene expression and clinical characteristics were assessed using the Mann-Whitney test.

Results

ERCC1 mRNA levels were higher in tumors from patients with metastatic disease than patients with non-metastatic disease (P=0.021), and higher in adenocarcinomas than squamous cell carcinomas (P=0.006). Increased TUBB3 mRNA expression levels were found in patients with performance status (PS) 1 in comparison with PS 0 (P=0.049), with poorly differentiated tumors in comparison with tumors that were moderately and well differentiated (P ≤0.000 1), and with advanced stage in comparison with early stage disease (P≤0.000 1).

Conclusions

ERCC1 mRNA levels were higher in metastatic adenocarcinoma NSCLC; TUBB3 mRNA levels were significantly higher in poorly differentiated tumors and in advanced stage NSCLC, which indicates the poor prognosis.
Magnetic resonance imaging of disc space infection revisited: temporal changes
Authors: Duan Shaoyin , Xu Bingqiang , Di Primio Gina , Lum Cheemun , Schweitzer Mark E
Published: January 2024

Background

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has advantages in showing pathologic changes of disc space infection, which is important in clinical treatment. The purpose of this study was to describe the MRI findings of disc space infections in relation to chronicity.

Methods

MRI of 60 patients from January 1, 2002 to April 30, 2012 in Ottawa Hospital were retrospectively evaluated by two radiologists blindly. All patients had histological confirmation, with 55 having microbiological confirmation as well. These patients were divided into acute (n=18), subacute (n=21) and chronic (n=21) based on histological findings. The following potential signs of MRI finding were assessed: marrow edema, endplate erosions, disk fluid and height change, paraspinal mass, epidural collection, facet fluid and enhancement in the marrow, disc, paraspinal mass, and epidural involvement. Statistical analysis consisted of t- or F-tests and chi-square test.

Results

In the 60 patients, 83 infected discs (single disc in 45 patients, 2-4 discs in 15 patients) were found, including 22 discs in the acute group, 30 discs in the subacute group, and 31 discs in the chronic group. There was a significant difference in the extent of marrow edema between the acute, subacute and chronic groups (P <0.05), with a gradually increasing extent from acute to chronic. The extent of endplate erosions increased with chronicity, but was not statistically significant. There were significant differences in the disc fluid, epidural collection, and disc enhancement among the acute, subacute and chronic groups, as well as the facet fluid between acute and chronic groups (P <0.05). There were no significant differences in the present probability of disc height loss, paraspinal mass, and marrow enhancement among the three groups (P >0.05).

Conclusions

From acute to chronic infections, the extent of marrow edema and endplate erosions appeared to gradually increase. Epidural collections and facet fluid are most frequently found in the acute group, while disc fluid and disc enhancement are more common in the chronic patients.
A novel rat model of cardiopulmonary bypass for deep hypothermic circulatory arrest without blood priming
Authors: Zhang Weihua , Zhang Yanbo , Liu Donghai , Zhu Yaobin , Qiao Chenhui , Wang Jiaxiang , Xu Yulin , Liu Yang , Li Bin , Yang Yao
Published: January 2024

Background

Large animal cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) models are expensive, and prevent assessment of neurocognitive function, and difficulties with long-term recovery. The purpose of this study was to establish a novel rat model of cardiopulmonary bypass for deep hypothermic circulatory arrest without blood priming.

Methods

Twenty adult male Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 450–560 g were randomized to CPB with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) and control groups, with 10 rats each. The experimental protocols, including blood and crystalloid fluid administration, anesthesia, orotracheal intubation, ventilation, cannulation, and heparinization were identical in both groups. After inducing cardiac arrest, the circuit was turned off and rats were left in a DHCA state for 15 minutes. Rats were rewarmed to 34°C to 35°C over a period of 36 to 42 minutes using CPB-assisted rewarming, a heating blanket, and a heating lamp along with administration of 0.1 mEq of sodium bicarbonate and 0.14 mEq of calcium chloride. The remaining priming volume was reinfused and animals were weaned from CPB.

Results

All CPB with DHCA processes were successfully achieved. Blood gas analysis and hemodynamic parameters were in the normal range. The vital signs of all rats were stable.

Conclusions

Our CPB circuit has several novel features, including a small priming volume, active cooling/rewarming processes, vacuum-assisted venous drainage, peripheral cannulation without thoracotomy or sternotomy, and an accurate means of monitoring peripheral tissue oxygenation.
Preparation, preservation, and morphological evaluation of the donor graft for descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty: an experimental study
Authors: Sun Yiqian , Peng Rongmei , Hong Jing
Published: January 2024

Background

Though there have been various methods for harvesting and preserving descemet membrane (DM) and intact endothelium, there is no literature about the morphological evaluation of endothelium after graft preparation for descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK). The aim of this study was to establish and improve a simple method for preparing, preserving, and morphologically evaluating the donor graft for DMEK.

Methods

To obtain a donor graft, an air bubble was formed by injecting a 29 G needle with 1 ml sterile air into a small edge created outside the Schwalbe line. Another needle was inserted into the bubble through the stroma to aspirate the air or replace half the air with organ culture medium. Trypan blue was used to mark the location for small incision to improve the success rate. Frozen sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (HE). Based on the air bubble, DM grafts were divided into four groups: group A (normal control), graft without any operative technique; group B, graft with zero-pressure air bubble; group C, graft with full-pressure air bubble; group D, graft with half-pressure air bubble. The four groups of grafts were preserved for 24 hours to observe the effect of bubbles on cells. The gross and ultrastructure morphologies were evaluated using alizarin red and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively.

Results

Donor grafts were harvested via the air bubble technique, facilitated by prior trypan blue staining. HE-stained sections revealed a pure graft without stroma. There were no significant changes under light microscope. In group A, SEM revealed a confluent layer of polygonal endothelium with distributed microvilli exhibiting characteristics of interdigitating junctions. In group B, intercellular borders became thinner. In group C, interdigitations were almost flat and microvilli were observed less frequently. In group D, other than less microvilli, there were minimal changes.

Conclusions

The donor graft preparation method appears to be effective and convenient. Properly decreasing the air pressure could protect and preserve the endothelium.
Immune regulation of hydrogen sulfide in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Du Shuxu , Jia Yongrui , Tang Hong , Sun Yangling , Wu Wanshui , Sun Liming , Du Junbao , Geng Bin , Tang Chaoshu , Jin Hongfang
Published: January 2024

Background

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and chemotherapy can cause immune imbalance, and gaseous molecule hydrogen sulfide (H2S) can participate in the process of immune response. This study aimed to investigate the immune regulation of H2S in pediatric ALL.

Methods

Children (n=78) with ALL admitted during 2010–2013 were included in this study. Two blood samples were collected in period of before chemotherapy, bone marrow remission and two days after chemotherapy, respectively. Serum contents of H2S and cytokines, including interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-2 (IL-2), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin-4 (IL-4), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10) and macrophage inflammatory protein-1α (MIP-1α), were detected using ELISA method. Stepwise regression was used to analyze the correlation between H2S and cytokines. Furthermore, human Jurkat cells were cultured in vitro, and nucleoprotein of Jurkat cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were collected, contents of cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE) and certain cytokines were measured by Western blotting.

Results

Serum concentrations of H2S, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10 and MIP-1α in children with ALL were increased significantly (P <0.01), while concentrations of IL-2, TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-4 decreased obviously (P <0.01). In patients after chemotherapy, concentrations of H2S and IL-10 were decreased significantly (P <0.05), but IL-4 and IFN-γ concentrations increased markedly (P <0.05). At remission stage, H2S, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10 and MIP-1α concentrations were further decreased markedly (P <0.05), but concentrations of IL-2, TNF-α and IFN-γ increased again (P <0.05). Protein contents of CSE, IL-10, IL-4 and IL-2 of PBMCs also increased markedly in children with ALL. Moreover, changes of CSE protein contents of PBMCs were consistent with serum H2S contents, and there were significant correlation between H2S and certain cytokines based on stepwise regression analysis. Furthermore, compared with those of PBMCs group, in vitro study indicated that Jurkat cells of H2S group expressed IFN-γ, IL-10, IL-4 and IL-2 protein increased obviously (P <0.05), while IL-4, IL-2 and CSE expression of PPG group decreased markedly (P <0.05).

Conclusion

Gaseous molecule H2S might participate in the process of immune regulation in pediatric ALL through modulating transcription and expression of cytokines.
Soluble CD40 ligand is associated with angiographic severity of coronary artery disease in patients with acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Zhao Wei , Zhang Fan , Li Zijian , Yu Haiyi , Li Zongshi , Gao Wei
Published: January 2024

Background

Recently, studies have disclosed soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L) during atherosclerosis development and plaque destabilization. The objective of the present study was to test the hypothesis that sCD40L levels are higher in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients with a greater extent of angiographic coronary involvement.

Methods

This cross-sectional study examined ACS patients who underwent coronary angiography by measuring their sCD40L levels. In order to estimate the serum levels of sCD40L, 10 ml of peripheral venous blood was drawn within 24 hours of admission. sCD40L levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA, RapidBio, West Hills, CA, USA). Demographic data, presence of concomitant diseases, ACS characteristics, and angiographic findings were evaluated. A review of medical records and patient interviews were conducted to assess coronary risk factors. And the severity of coronary artery disease was evaluated using the Gensini score index.

Results

Two hundred and eighty-nine patients were included in the study, of whom 186 were male, with an average age of 64.1±10.0 years. Median sCD40L levels were 1.7 ng/ml (0.3–7.3 ng/ml) and Gensini scores were 50 (0–228). After adjusting for demographic variables and cardiovascular risk factors, the Gensini score was associated with the natural logarithm of the sCD40L level (Coefficient b=0.002, 95% CI 0.000–0.003, P=0.029).

Conclusion

sCD40L levels were independently associated with angiographic severity of coronary artery disease in patients with ACS.
Inflammation induced-endothelial cells release angiogenesis associated-microRNAs into circulation by microparticles
Authors: Zhang Jing , Ren Jingyi , Chen Hong , Geng Qiang
Published: January 2024

Background

Endothelial cells derived microRNAs can be detected in plasma and serum and there is evidence that inflammatory disease states may affect the levels of circulating microRNAs. However, there is no direct proof that inflammation induces endothelial cells to release microRNAs into circulation. This study aimed to explore whether inflammation could induce endothelial cells to release microRNAs into circulation and to investigate whether these released microRNAs derived from endothelial cells were transported in microparticles.

Methods

Microparticles were isolated from human atherosclerotic plaques with an active inflammatory phenotype and normal vascular tissue. Flow cytometry and real-time PCR were used to detect the levels of microparticles and microRNAs. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) was treated with tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α, 10 ng/ml) for 24 hours, and then HUVEC and the culture medium were respectively collected.

Results

By comparing microparticles isolated from human atherosclerotic plaques with an active inflammatory phenotype (n=9) and those from normal vascular tissues (n=9), we found levels of annexin V+ microparticles and annexin V+ CD144+ microparticles were significantly increased in plaques and angiogenesis associated microRNAs (106b, 25, 92a and 21) were also significantly increased in microparticles from plaques. After exposure to TNF-α at a concentration of 10 ng/ml (TNF-α group, n=3) or DMEM (control group, n=3) for 24 hours, counts of microparticles and expressions of microRNAs 106b, 25, 92a and 21 in microparticles isolated from medium significantly increased. However, there were no differences in the intracellular levels of microRNAs 25, 92a or 21 isolated from HUVEC between TNF-α group and control group, while microRNA 106b decreased in TNF-α group.

Conclusion

Inflammation could induce endothelial cells to release angiogenesis associated microRNAs into circulation, causing higher levels of circulating endothelial cells derived microRNAs in atherosclerosis.
Prognostic markers for idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Guo Xiaomin , Jin Hongfang , Du Junbao
Published: January 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to review the research on the prognostic markers of idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH).

Date sources

We searched literature from PubMed and CNKI databases both in English and Chinese up to 2013.

Study selection

Data about mortality and cut-off value are from clinical trials and identified by analysis.

Results

IPAH is an unexplained, progressive, and rare disease characterized by increased pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance. The diagnosis is difficult, mortality of IPAH is high, and the survival periods are only 2–3 years after diagnosis. Investigations in recent years have identified a range of prognostic markers for IPAH, including the 6-minute walking test, red blood cell distribution width, and platelet levels, as well as imaging findings. Changes in these markers are important sources of information to predict the prognosis of patients with IPAH, which carries significant benefits for treatment planning.

Conclusion

Even though the prognosis of IPAH has been investigated, the mortality is also high. More accurate and meaningful assessment for the prognosis of IPAH is required.
Coronary heart disease: incidence, risk factors and interventions in Jiaozhou of Shandong province
Authors: Yu Hua , Li Dan , Chu Xianming , An Yi , Song Tongxun , Feng Huixin , Lin Peilin , Wang Tao , Jiang Shaoyan , Guo Linlin , Xu Fengqiang , Liu Zhengke , Yang Bin
Published: January 2024

Background

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the most common type of heart disease and cause of heart attacks. This study investigated the epidemiological characteristics of CHD and its risk factors in Jiaozhou, Shandong province, to ultimately find a way of reducing the prevalence of cardiovascular disease, and to provide a theoretical basis for establishing a cardiovascular disease management path under the regional medical collaborative mechanism.

Methods

A questionnaire survey was performed including 1 952 people aged 35 years or older who were questioned by means of stratified, cluster, proportional sampling to investigate the prevalence of CHD and its risk factors. The data were inputted into SPSS11.0 statistical software for processing and analysis. We advised the local medical institutions to establish health files for the residents with CHD and risk factors. They were followed up regularly. Their risk factors and life-style were monitored, and advice was given as to proper medications. Green channels were established, and the patients were transmitted in a timely manner to superior hospitals for better treatment if the necessary treatments were not available in the local hospitals. The control of risk factors was observed after the follow-up for half a year.

Results

In Jiaozhou, the rates of coronary artery disease, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia and overweight were 8.15%, 28.54%, 11.43%, 35.46%, and 18.70% respectively. The rates of hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia and overweight were higher than the data published in “The report of Chinese cardiovascular disease 2012”; which are 24%, 9.7%, 18.6%, and 9.7%, respectively. The control of risk factors improved significantly after the guidance of the residents lifestyle and medication for six months.

Conclusions

The high prevalence of coronary artery disease in Jiaozhou is closely related to age, gender, diet structure, family history of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, overweight, and unhealthy lifestyle. Under the regional medical coordination mechanism, the collaborative management of cardiovascular disease can provide new management concepts for the areas short of medical resources, so as to reduce the prevalence of cardiovascular disease.
Fourth-generation ceramic-on-ceramic total hip arthroplasty in patients of 55 years or younger: short-term results and complications analysis
Authors: Wang Weiguo , Guo Wanshou , Yue Debo , Shi Zhencai , Zhang Nianfei , Liu Zhaohui , Sun Wei , Wang Bailiang , Li Zirong
Published: January 2024

Background

The incidence of total hip replacement in the younger and more active patients is ever increasing. The ceramic-on-ceramic (COC) bearing was developed to reduce wear debris-induced osteolysis and loosening and to improve the longevity of hip arthroplasties. Few studies have reported the clinical results and complications of the new zirconia-toughened ceramic total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods

A consecutive series of 132 young patients (177 hips) that underwent primary cementless THAs between January 2010 and December 2012 were included in this study. These arthroplasties all had fourth-generation COC bearings performed through a posterolateral approach. The average age was (41.8±8.3) years (ranging from 22 to 55 years), and the mean follow-up period was (24.5±9.4) months (ranging from 12 to 47 months). The results were evaluated both clinically and radiographically. Harris hip score (HHS) was determined before surgery and at the time of each follow-up. Presence of postoperative groin or thigh pain and squeaking were recorded. Other complications such as dislocations, periprosthetic fractures, and ceramic components fractures were diagnosed and treated in emergency.

Results

The average HHSs improved from preoperative 60.3±10.7 (ranging from 29 to 76) to 91.0±5.1 (ranging from 74 to 100) at the final follow-up (t=45.064, P <0.05), and 97.7% of cases were scored as excellent and good results. At the last follow-up, incidental inguinal pain was found in three hips (1.7%) and thigh pain in 11 hips (6.2%). Radiographs showed a high rate of new bone formation around the acetabular and stem components. No obvious osteolysis or prosthesis loosening was detected. Complications occurred in six hips (3.4%): posterior dislocation in two hips (1.1%), periprosthetic femoral fracture in one hip (0.6%), asymptomatic squeaking in two hips (1.1%), and ceramic liner fracture in one hip (0.6%).

Conclusions

The fourth-generation COC THA showed excellent clinical results in younger active patients with no osteolysis-related prosthesis failure at a short-term follow-up study. Surgeons should still be aware of the potential risks of complications such as dislocation, periprosthetic fracture, squeaking, and ceramic components fracture.
Trace glucose fluxes in individuals with prediabetes using stable isotopes
Authors: Du Shichun , Xia Fangzhen , Xu Xiao , Zhang Huixin , Zhu Chunfang , Lu Yingli
Published: January 2024

Background

The glucose fluxes of individuals with prediabetes in Chinese population are not clear. This study was to determine whether the endogenous glucose production (EGP), oral glucose rate of appearance (Ra) and glucose rate of disappearance (Rd) were different in Chinese individuals with prediabetes under fasting conditions and following an oral glucose challenge.

Methods

Five subjects with type 2 diabetes, 5 subjects with prediabetes and 5 non-diabetic subjects matched for age, weight, fat free mass and body mass index underwent a 180 minute stable glucose isotope tracing ([6, 6-2H2] glucose, [1-13C] glucose, and [U-13C] glucose) study under fasting and after ingestion of a 75 g oral glucose load. Isotope glucose enrichment was measured by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Insulin sensitivity was estimated using the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)-derived insulin sensitivity index, β cell function was determined by the insulinogenic index (ΔI30/ΔG30).

Results

The insulin sensitivity index (P=0.043) and insulinogenic index (P=0.021) were decreased in subjects with prediabetes compared with non-diabetes. Fasting EGP was slightly higher (P=0.29) and postprandial EGP was comparable in subjects with prediabetes and non-diabetes during 120 minutes after glucose ingestion, but nadir EGP occurred later in prediabetic than non-diabetic subjects. Ra did not differ among the three groups. Rd was substantially lower in subjects with prediabetes than non-diabetes after glucose intake (P=0.013).

Conclusion

The mild hyperglycemia observed among individuals with prediabetes may result from decreased Rd during the postprandial state.
Bioresorbable scaffolds for coronary artery disease: current status and future prospective
Authors: Zhang Yaojun , Gao Runlin , Xu Bo , Paul Cummins , Serruys Patrick W.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To update the current status of bioresorbable scaffold, highlights the potential future prospective of innovative bioresorbable scaffold technology.

Data sources

Data were obtained from papers published in PubMed, presentations from the following conferences: EuroPCR, Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics, and Chinese Interventional Therapeutics.

Results

Bioresorbable scaffold has been introduced as a potential workhorse device for the treatment of coronary artery disease, with providing temporary vessel scaffold, then gradually being resorbed free of any caging, eventually restoring the vessel wall physiology and vasomotion. The clinical outcomes regarding the safety and efficacy following bioresorbable scaffolds implantation appear promising in the treatment of patients with eitherde novolesions or acute myocardial infarction (AMI). In addition, two bioresorbable scaffolds currently investigated in Chinese population as well as several other bioresorbable scaffolds from Chinese manufactories are under development and preclinical evaluations.

Conclusions

Bioresorbable scaffolds with potential unique advantages have been rapidly developed and the initial clinical results are promising. Further preclinical and clinical evaluations are necessary to investigate their safety and efficacy in the treatment of Chinese patients with coronary artery disease.
Minimal incision access for pediatric and adult cochlear implantation
Authors: Danmo Cui , Ying Shi , Qiaotong Su , Ting Liu , Demin Han , Yongxin Li
Published: January 2024

Background

Cochlear implant surgery is widely practiced. Minimal incision cochlear implant surgery has been developed with the aims of reducing the impact of surgery on the patient and improving cosmesis while maintaining the low morbidity of conventional wider access approaches. This study aimed to assess the surgical technique and complication rate of minimal incision cochlear implantation (MICI) for children and adults.

Methods

Data for this study were obtained via a retrospective analysis. Totally 378 patients were included in the study. All patients received minimal incision cochlear implantation, using the skin protector during the process of the operation. The surgical complications of MICI were recorded in a spreadsheet format. The incidence of major and minor complication were analyzed, and appropriate treatment was provided.

Results

A total of 40 (10.5%) complications were noted in the study. There were 0 life-threatening, 9 major, and 31 minor complications. Of the nine major complications, five were device failures, one developed infection and extrusion, and three required receiver-stimulator repositioning.

Conclusions

MICI is as safe as standard cochlear implantation (SCI) and affords with it other benefits. Eliminating the scalp flap avoids devascularization and minimizes the opportunity of flap infection or necrosis. Complications not related to the flap are similar to SCI.
Current status of anticoagulant treatments and improvements for hemodialysis patients in northern Chinese cities: a five-year comparative study
Authors: Qi Huang , Xuefeng Sun , Hongli Lin , Zhimin Zhang , Lirong Hao , Li Yao , Jijun Li , Delong Zhao , Yong Wang , Hanyu Zhu , Xiangmei Chen
Published: January 2024

Background

Anticoagulation treatments are an important aspect of hemodialysis; however, few reports have addressed these treatments. This investigation intends to increase the understanding of the current status and improvements of hemodialysis-related anticoagulation treatments in China.

Methods

In this study, an epidemiological investigation was conducted that examined 842 patients in 2007 and 1 175 patients in 2012 who underwent hemodialysis anticoagulation treatments in seven blood purification centers in northern Chinese cities.

Results

Heparin was the most commonly used anticoagulant, although the percentage of use of low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) increased from 26.5% in 2007 to 42.1% in 2012. In 2007, there were no significant differences in anticoagulant selection among either patients with various primary diseases or patients with hemorrhage, thrombosis, thrombocytopenia, or a low hemoglobin level. However, compared with patients with other diseases, significantly lower doses of LMWH were administered to patients with hypertension (55.5 U/kg vs. 67.3 U/kg, P <0.05) or diabetes (58.5 U/kg vs. 67.3 U/kg, P <0.05), and patients with hemorrhage received lower doses of heparin than the other patients (61.6 U/kg vs. 71.8 U/kg, P <0.01). In 2012, patients with diabetic nephropathy (51.5% vs. 36.5%, P <0.01), hemorrhage (43.4% vs. 31.7%, P <0.01), or a hemoglobin level below 90 g/L (57.2% vs. 37.1%, P <0.01) experienced significantly higher doses of LMWH administration; patients with hemorrhage received significantly reduced LMWH dosages (50.4 U/kg vs. 57.8 U/kg, P <0.05), and patients with thrombosis received significantly higher doses of heparin (73.8 U/kg vs. 62.1 U/kg, P <0.01) or LMWH (57.8 U/kg vs. 52.6 U/kg, P <0.05). Antiplatelet drugs were administered to 20.4% of the examined patients in 2007 and 20.7% in 2012. In 2012, patients with hypertension (25.9% vs. 18.5%, P <0.01) and thrombosis (36.6% vs. 16.1%, P <0.01) had a higher rate of using antiplatelet drugs than patients with other primary diseases and complications. Patients receiving antiplatelet drugs also received higher doses of heparin than patients without using antiplatelet drugs (74.4 U/kg vs. 65.9 U/kg, P <0.01). However, the use of the drugs was not correlated with thrombocytopenia. The rate at which coagulation indices were determined increased from 45.7% in 2007 to 64% in 2012.

Conclusion

These findings suggested that hemodialysis-related anticoagulation treatments in China have gradually become more standardized and individualized.
Statins and intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Haiping Zheng , Zhiping Hu , Wei Lu
Published: January 2024

Objective

To briefly review the literature regarding the impact of statins on the prevention and treatment of stroke, especially on intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). We described statins' effects, mechanism of ICH, serum total cholesterol and ICH, and the relationship between statins and ICH.

Data sources

All articles used in this review were mainly searched from the PubMed database with no limitations of language and year of publication.

Study selection

Randomized controlled studies, prospective cohort studies, animal experiments, and meta-analysis articles related to this topic in the past decade were selected.

Results

Statins play an important role in the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases and also have an impact on the treatment of vascular diseases. There still exist controversies about the relationship between statins and ICH. More clinical and experimental trials indicate that statins do not increase the risk of ICH.

Conclusion

A low or a regular dose of statins would not increase the risk of ICH.