bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of emotional valence on generalization gradients
Authors: Alcalá José A. , Martínez-Tomás Celia , Urcelay Gonzalo P. , Hinojosa José A.
Published: January 2024

Generalization enables individuals to respond to novel stimuli based on previous experiences. The degree to which organisms respond is determined by their physical resemblance to the original conditioned stimulus (CS+), with a stronger response elicited by more similar stimuli, resulting in similarity-based generalization gradients. Recent research showed that cognitive or conceptual dimensions also result in gradients similar to those observed with manipulations of physical dimensions. Such findings suggest that attributes beyond physical similarity play a role in shaping generalization gradients. However, despite its adaptive relevance for survival, there is no study exploring the effectiveness of affective dimensions in shaping generalization gradients. In two experiments (135 Spanish and 150 English participants, respectively), we used an online predictive learning task, in which different stimuli (words and Gabor patches) were paired with the presence – or absence – of a fictitious shock. After training, we assessed whether valence (i.e., hedonic experience) conveyed by words shape generalization gradients. In Experiment 1, the outcome expectancy decreased monotonically with variations in valence of Spanish words, mirroring the gradient obtained with the physical dimension (line orientation). In Experiment 2, conducted with English words, a similar gradient was observed when non-trained (i.e., generalization) words varied along the valence dimension, but not when words were of neutral valence. The consistency of these findings across two different languages strengthens the reliability and validity of the affective dimension as a determinant of generalization gradients. Furthermore, our data highlight the importance of considering the role of affective features in generalization responses, advancing the interplay between emotion, language, and learning.
Effect of myocardial protection during beating heart surgery with right sub-axiliary approach
Authors: MA Jie , LI Xin-hua , YAN Zi-xing , LIU Ai-jun , ZHANG Wen-kai , YANG Li-na
Published: January 2024

Background

Cardiac troponin-I (cTnI) is one of the three regulatory subunits of the cardiac troponin which has the high sensibility and specificity of responding to myocardial injury. Studies have demonstrated that cTnI is released into the blood stream within hours following acute myocardial reperfusion injury. The clinical utility of cTnI for the assessment of myocardial damage is that it is more specific than creatine kinase MB (CKMB). This study investigated cTnI as a sensitive marker of myocardial reperfusion injury and its clinical value on beating heart surgery with right sub-axiliary incision.

Methods

From December 2002 through December 2004, 100 patients with atrial septal defect (ASD), ventricular septal defect (VSD), atrial septal defect and ventricular septal defect (ASD+VSD), and tetralogy of Fallot were randomly divided into two groups: the treatment group (n=50) was operated on with a beating heart under extracorporeal circulation (ECC), and the control group (n=50) on an conventional arresting heart under ECC. The two groups both used a right sub-axillary incision. Blood samples from a central venous catheter (CVC) were collected before, at the end of aortic clamping, immediately after discontinue cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), 3, 6, 24, and 48 hours after operation. The Abbott Axsym system with hol-automation fluorescent immunity analyzer was used for the quantitative determination of cTnI. cTnI was detected to investigate the effect of myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury and the clinical value of beating heart surgery with right sub-axillary incision.

Results

There were no significant differences between the two groups before operation. At the end of aortic clamping and thereafter, cTnI significantly increased in both groups, and reached the peak point at 6 hours after operation. At all the tested points, cTnI was significantly higher in the control group than the beating heart group (P <0.05), especially at 6 hours post operation (P <0.01). The operating time and ECC duration were shortened and the dosage of dopamine was decreased, when compared with the control group.

Conclusions

There was less cTnI measured in the beating heart group than in the control group after CPB, demonstrating that beating heart surgery may significantly reduce myocardial reperfusion injury.
Chemokine stromal cell-derived factor 1/CXCL12 increases homing of mesenchymal stem cells to injured myocardium and neovascularization following myocardial infarction
Authors: ZHUANG Yu , CHEN Xin , XU Ming , ZHANG Lei-yang , XIANG Fei
Published: January 2024

Background

Heart failure due to ischemic heart disease is still a major health problem. Myocardium regeneration emerges as a novel therapeutic method for treating myocardial infarction (MI). However, it is affected by many factors. The present study was aimed to investigate the effect of chemokine stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1)/CXCL12 on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) homing to injured myocardium in a rat myocardial infarction model.

Methods

A rat myocardial infarction model was established by permanent left anterior descending branch ligation. Mesenchymal stem cells from donor rats were cultured in IMDM and labeled with bromodeoxyuridine. The rats were divided into two groups. SDF-1 expression was measured by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry in the sham operated or infarcted hearts at 1, 2, 4, 7, 14 and 28 days post operation in the SDF-1 detection group. The rats in the intervention groups were injected with SDF-1, anti-SDF-1 antibody or saline 4 days after myocardial infarction. Then, a total of 5×106 cells in 2.5 ml of phosphate-buffered saline were injected through the tail vein. The number of the labeled MSCs in the infarcted hearts was counted on the 3rd day post injection. Cardiac function and blood vessel density were assessed on the 28th day post injection.

Results

Self-generating SDF-1 expression was increased at the first day post MI, peaked at the 7th day and decreased thereafter while it remained unchanged in sham operated hearts. The MSCs enrichment in the host hearts were more abundant in the MI groups than in the non-MI group (P=0.000); the MSCs enrichment in the host hearts were more abundant in the SDF-1 injected group than in the anti-SDF-1 antibody and saline injected groups (P = 0.000). Cardiac function was improved more in the SDF-1 injected group than in the anti-SDF-1 antibody and saline injected groups (P = 0.000). Neovascularization in the SDF-1 injected group increased significantly compared to the other groups (P = 0.000).

Conclusion

Myocardial SDF-1 expression was increased only in the early phase post MI. SDF-1 may enhance MSCs homing to the injured heart and improve cardiac function by promoting neovascularization.
Drug-resistant gene based genotyping for Acinetobacter baumannii in tracing epidemiological events and for clinical treatment within nosocomial settings
Authors: JIN Hui , XU Xiao-min , MI Zu-huang , MOU Yi , LIU Pei
Published: January 2024

Background

Acinetobacter baumannii has emerged as an important pathogen related to serious infections and nosocomial outbreaks around the world. However, of the frequently used methods, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) in Acinetobacter baumannii genotyping lack the direct molecular proof of drug resistance. This study was conducted to establish a typing method based on drug resistant gene identification in contrast to traditional PFGE and AFLP in the period of nosocomial epidemic or outbreak.

Methods

From January 2005 to October 2005, twenty-seven strains of Acinetobacter species from Intensive Care Units, the Second Affiliated Hospital in Ningbo were isolated, including both epidemic and sporadic events. Susceptibility test, PFGE, AFLP and drug resistance gene typing (DRGT) were carried out to confirm the drug resistance and analyze the genotyping, respectively. PFGE was used as a reference to evaluate the typeability of DRGT and AFLP.

Results

Twenty-seven strains of Acinetobacter displayed multiple antibiotic resistance and drug resistant genes, and β-lactamase genes were detected in 85.2% strains. The result of DRGT was comparable to PFGE in Acinetobacter strains with different drug resistance though a little difference existed, and even suggested a molecular evolution course of different drug-resistant strains. AFLP showed great polymorphism between strains and had weak ability in distinguishing the drug resistance.

Conclusion

Compared to AFLP and PFGE, DRGT is useful to analyze localized molecular epidemiology of nosocomial infections and outbreaks, which would benefit clinical diagnosis and therapy.
Inhibition of the cystathionine-γ-lyase/hydrogen sulfide pathway in rat vascular smooth muscle cells by cobalt-60 gamma radiation
Authors: ZHONG Guang-zhen , YANG Xin-chun , JIA Li-ping , CHEN Feng-rong , CUI Ming
Published: January 2024

Background

Radiation is a promising treatment for in stent restenosis and restenosis following percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, which has troubled interventional cardiologists for a long time. It inhibits neointima hyperplasia, vascular remodeling, and increases the mean luminal diameter. The mechanism of intracoronary brachytherapy for restenosis is not well understood. Endogenous gaseous transmitters including nitric oxide and carbon monoxide are closely related to restenosis. Hydrogen sulfide, a new endogenous gaseous transmitter, is able to inhibit the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells and vascular remodeling. This study aimed to clarify the effect of radiation on cystathionine-γ-lyase/hydrogen sulfide pathway in rat smooth muscle cells.

Methods

We studied the effect of radiation on the cystathionine-γ-lyase/hydrogen sulfide pathway. Rat vascular smooth muscle cells were radiated with 60Co γ at doses of 14 Gy and 25 Gy respectively. Then the mRNA level of cystathionine-γ-lyase was studied by quantitative reverse-transcription competitive polymerase chain reaction. Hydrogen sulfide concentration in culture medium was determined by methylene blue spectrophotometry. Cystathionine-γ-lyase activity in vascular smooth muscle cells was also studied.

Results

60Co γ radiation at a dose of 1 Gy did not affect the cystathionine-γ-lyase/hydrogen sulfide pathway significantly. However, 60Co γ radiation at doses of 14 Gy and 25 Gy decreased the hydrogen sulfide synthesis by 21.9% (P <0.05) and 26.8% (P<0.01) respectively. At the same time, they decreased the cystathionine-γ-lyase activity by 15.1% (P<0.05) and 20.5% (P <0.01) respectively, and cystathionine-γ-lyase mRNA expression by 29.3% (P <0.01) and 38.2% (P <0.01) respectively.

Conclusion

Appropriate 60Co γ radiation inhibits the H2S synthesis by inhibiting the gene expression of cystathionine-γ-lyase and the cystathionine-γ-lyase activity.
Optimal in vitro culture conditions for murine predominant immature CD8a+ dendritic cells
Authors: NA Ning , XU Lin , CAO Kai-yuan , LUO Yun , YUAN Guang-qing , XIANG Peng , HONG Liang-qing , LI Shu-nong
Published: January 2024

Background

The prospects of using immature CD8a+ dendritic cells (DC2) to establish transplant immunologic tolerance and treatments for autoimmune diseases in the future are promising. However, the methods for inducing DC2 are still being explored. The present study was aimed to investigate the optimal in vitro conditions for preparing large numbers of predominant DC2 from murine bone marrow cells.

Methods

Three groups of bone marrow cells cultured under different conditions were examined, namely a cytokine-induced experimental group (cytokine group), a control group with a low concentration of granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF, low GM-CSF group) and a control group without endogenous cytokines. The cytokine group was cultured with 5 ng/ml GM-CSF, 25 ng/ml Flt3 ligand (Flt3L), 20 ng/ml interleukin 4 (IL-4) and 100 ng/ml stem cell factor (SCF). The low GM-CSF control group was cultured with 0.4 ng/ml GM-CSF, 25 ng/ml Flt3L and 100 ng/ml SCF, without IL-4. The control group without exogenous cytokines was cultured without additional cytokines. All cells were cultured at 37°C under 5% CO2. On days 3, 7 and 16, 4-color flow cytometry was carried out to analyze the cell phenotypes, and the total cell numbers were counted to analyze the cell yields. Phase-contrast microscopy was used to observe the cell morphologies.

Results

The cytokine group exhibited higher proportions of typical immature CD8a+ DC, especially on day 3, but the total cell number and DC2 proportion decreased during prolonged culture. The low GM-CSF control group showed the same tendencies as the cytokine group on days 16 and 22, but produced higher total cell numbers (P <0.05) with lower DC2 proportions and cell numbers. The control group without exogenous cytokines spontaneously generated a certain proportion of DC2, but with low total cell and DC2 numbers that decreased rapidly, especially during prolonged culture (days 7 and 16, P<0.05).

Conclusions

Culture in the presence of 5 ng/ml GM-CSF, 25 ng/ml Flt3L, 20 ng/ml IL-4 and 100 ng/ml SCF can rapidly induce large quantities of predominant immature CD8a+ DC from murine bone marrow cells. Therefore, these represent optimal culture conditions for preparing murine immature DC2 in vitro.
Passive cigarette smoking induces inflammatory injury in human arterial walls
Authors: ZOU Ni , HONG Jiang , DAI Qiu-yan
Published: January 2024

Background

Epidemiological studies have shown that both active and passive cigarette smoking increase the risk of atherosclerosis. But very little is known about the biological processes induced by passive cigarette smoking that contribute to atherosclerosis. We observe the expression of a few of biological and inflammatory markers in human arterial walls in vitro which were treated with the second-hand smoke solution (sidestream whole, SSW), and discuss the possible mechanism of inflammatory injury induced by second-hand smoke.

Methods

The biological markers (platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1, PECAM-1; α-smooth muscle actin, α-SMA; collagen IV, Col IV) and inflammatory markers (vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, VCAM-1; monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, MCP-1; interleukin-8, IL-8) of human aortal wall were tested by immunofluorescence staining. The levels of MCP-1 and IL-8 mRNA expression were detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

Results

No distinct difference was observed between SSW and the control group on the expression of biological markers as assessed by the light microscope. But the inflammatory markers VCAM-1, MCP-1 and IL-8 on the subendothelial layer and smooth muscle cell layers, which are near the endothelium of arterial wall, were strongly stained in the SSW group compared with the control group. Their fluorescence intensities in the 1:40 SSW group (VCAM-1: 0.35±0.04, MCP-1: 0.34±0.05, IL-8: 0.37±0.05) and the 1:20 SSW group (VCAM-1: 0.40±0.04, MCP-1: 0.52±0.09, IL-8: 0.51±0.07) were significantly stronger than the control group (VCAM-1: 0.12±0.04, MCP-1: 0.06±0.02, IL-8: 0.24±0.03) by semi-quantitative analysis of immunofluorescence (P <0.001 vs control). MCP-1 mRNA expression in the 1:40 SSW (0.15±0.04) and the 1:20 SSW (0.19±0.06) group was significantly higher than in the control group (0.09±0.03) (P <0.05, P <0.01 vs control); IL-8 mRNA expression in the 1:40 SSW (0.64±0.12) and 1:20 SSW (0.72±0.13) groups was also significantly higher than that in the control group (0.49±0.13) (P <0.05, P<0.01 vs control) by RT-PCR.

Conclusions

It is implied that a second-hand smoke solution induces the inflammatory reaction of the arterial wall by release of inflammatory factors even though there is no distinct structural change on the arterial walls under light microscope, indicating that passive cigarette smoking is related to inflammatory injury in human arterial wall and could be closely related to the early inflammatory stage of atherosclerosis.
Effects of estrogen and tibolone on bladder histology and estrogen receptors in rats
Authors: YANG Xin , LI Ya-zhen , MAO Zhuo , GU Pei , SHANG Ming
Published: January 2024

Background

Estrogen deficiency causes atrophic changes within the urogenital tract, and is associated with urinary symptoms. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of estrogen and tibolone on bladder histology, and the changes of estrogen receptor α and β (ERα and β) protein expression in the detrusor muscle.

Methods

Forty female rats were separated into four groups of ten each. They received a sham operation (Sham), ovariectomy (Ovx), ovariectomy plus estrogen replacement (Ovx+E), or ovariectomy plus tibolone treatment (Ovx+T). After 12 weeks each rat was anesthetized and the bladders were removed. The bladders’ ultra structure, collagen fiber (CF) to smooth muscle(SM) ratio and ER subtypes were studied. Statistical analyses were performed using the one-way analysis of variance test.

Results

Ovx resulted in significant degeneration in bladder ultra structure; however, estrogen and tibolone reversed those changes. Ovx increased the CF/SM ratio, estrogen and tibolone resulted in an increase. Two estrogen receptors (ERs) were expressed in the bladder detrusor, with ERβ the main subtype. Ovx resulted in up-regulation of ERα and down-regulation of ERβ. With estrogen and tibolone treatment, ERβ showed a significant increase but ERα showed no significant difference compared with Ovx.

Conclusions

Estrogen deficiency deteriorates bladder ultra structure and histology. Supplementary estrogen can improve bladder function which may be due to inhibition of collagen hyperplasia and increased SM density. ERβ has an important role in mediating estrogen function in the bladder. Tibolone has a mild estrogenic action and has an effect on bladder function and structure to some degree.

Chin Med J 2009;122(4):381–385
Influential and prognostic factors of small for gestational age infants
Authors: ZHANG Yong-li , LIU Jun-tao , GAO Jin-song , YANG Jian-qiu , BIAN Xu-ming
Published: January 2024

Background

Small for gestational age (SGA) infants are associated with a high rate of oligohydramnios, stillbirth and cesarean delivery. Among SGA patients there is a higher risk of neonatal complications, such as polycythemia, hyperbilirubinemia, and hypothermia. Additionally, the SGA infant is prone to suffer from major neurologic sequelae, as well as cardiovascular system disease, in later life. Proper monitoring and therapy during pregnancy are, therefore, of utmost importance. The present study aimed to investigate the influential and prognostic factors of SGA infants.

Methods

From January 2001 to June 2007, a total of 55 SGA neonatal infants were included in a study group. All were born at Peking Union Medical College Hospital, with regular formal antenatal examinations. In addition, a total of 122 cases of appropriate for gestational age (AGA) infants were born at the same time and were registered into a control group. All cases were singleton pregnancies with detailed information of the maternal age, gravidity, parity, maternal height and weight, complications, uterine height and abdominal circumference, results from transabdominal ultrasonography between 32–38 gestational weeks, pregnancy duration, delivery manner, placenta, umbilical cord, and neonatal complications.

Results

Significant differences were observed in placenta weight and neonatal malformations between the study and control groups. Multivariate analysis revealed increased parity, maternal hyperthyroidism and hyperthyroidism history as risk factors. Fetal abdominal circumferences less than 30 and 32 cm at 32–38 gestational weeks respectively, as determined by ultrasonography, resulted in a Youden index of 0.62.

Conclusions

SGA infants were associated with a greater risk of smaller placentas and infant malformations. Increased parity, maternal hyperthyroidism, and a hyperthyroid history were risk factors for SGA infants. Fetal abdominal circumference less than 30 cm at 32 gestational weeks and less than 32 cm at 38 weeks, as determined by ultrasonography, was considered an effective index for SGA.

Chin Med J 2009;122(4):386–389
Predictive factors and unfavourable prognostic factors of interstitial lung disease in patients with polymyositis or dermatomyositis: a retrospective study
Authors: JI Su-yun , ZENG Fan-qin , GUO Qing , TAN Guo-zhen , TANG Hong-feng , LUO Yi-jin , TANG Zeng-qi , HAN Yan-fang
Published: January 2024

Background

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a serious lung complication in polymyositis (PM) and dermatomyositis (DM) which affects prognosis and requires a more aggressive approach in therapy. This study investigated the prevalence, characteristics, predictive factors and unfavourable prognostic factors of ILD in newly diagnosed PM, DM and amyopathic DM (ADM).

Methods

From January 2000 to December 2008, the medical records of 197 consecutive PM and DM patients at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University were reviewed excluding overlapping, juvenile, and malignancy-associated cases. The patients were assigned to an ILD (69 patients) and a non-ILD group (128 patients). The clinical features, laboratory findings, and prognosis were compared.

Results

The multivariate analysis indicated that older age at onset (OR 1.033, 95%C/ 1.009-1.058, P=0.007), fever (OR 4.109, 95%C/ 1.926-8.767, P <0.001) and arthritis/arthralgia (OR 2.274, 95%C/ 1.101-4.695, P=0.026) were the independent predictive factors for developing ILD in PM/DM after excluding anti-Jo-1. Regarding anti-Jo-1, fever (OR 4.912, 95%C/ 2.121-11.376, P <0.001) was associated with ILD. Poor survival in ILD patients was associated with ILD clinical subset (RR 0.122, 95%C/0.049-0.399, P <0.001), ADM/DM/PM-ILD (RR 0.140, 95%C/ 0.031-0.476, P=0.002), cardiac involvement (RR 4.654, 95%C/ 1.391-15.577, P=0.013) and serum albumin level (RR 0.910, 95%C/ 0.831-0.997,

P

=0.042).

Conclusions

Patients who presented with fever tended to have a higher frequency of PM/DM-associated ILD. A Hamman-Rich-like presentation, ADM-ILD, cardiac involvement and hypoalbuminemia were poor prognostic factors in ILD-PM/DM.
Screening disease-associated proteins from sera of patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a comparative proteomic study
Authors: LI Tian-wang , ZHENG Ben-rong , HUANG Zhi-xiang , LIN Qu , ZHAO Li-ke , LIAO Ze-tao , ZHAO Ji-jun , LIN Zhi-ming , GU Jie-ruo
Published: January 2024

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation at the synovial membrane. Although great progress has been made recently in exploring the etiology and pathogenesis of RA, its molecular pathological mechanism remains to be further defined and it is still a great challenge in determining the diagnosis and in choosing the appropriate therapy in early patients. This study was performed to screen candidate RA-associated serum proteins by comparative proteomics to provide research clues to early diagnosis and treatment of RA.

Methods

Sera isolated from 6 RA patients and 6 healthy volunteers were pooled respectively and high-abundance proteins were depleted by Plasma 7 Multiple Affinity Removal System. The protein expression profiles between the two groups were then compared by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) and the proteins over/under-expressed by more than 3-fold were identified by mass spectrometry analysis. To validate the differential expression levels of the identified proteins between the two groups, ELISA was performed in two of the identified proteins in individual sera from 32 RA patients and 32 volunteers.

Results

Eight proteins which over/under-expressed in sera of RA patients were identified. Among them, chain A of transthyretin (TTR) was under-expressed, while serum amyloid A protein, apolipoprotein A (ApoA)-IV, ApoA-IV precursor, haptoglobin 2, ceruloplasmin (Cp), immunoglobulin superfamily 22 and HT016 were over-expressed. ELISA test confirmed that Cp expressed remarkably higher while TTR obviously lower in RA group compared with volunteer group.

Conclusion

There were 8 identified proteins differentially expressed between RA group and volunteer group, which might be candidate RA-associated proteins and might be promising diagnostic indicators or therapeutic targets for RA.
Wide local excision could be considered as the initial treatment of primary anorectal malignant melanoma
Authors: ZHOU Hai-tao , ZHOU Zhi-xiang , ZHANG Hai-zeng , BI Jian-jun , ZHAO Ping
Published: January 2024

Background

Anorectal malignant melanoma was a rare disease with extremely poor prognosis. The aim of this study was to explore the clinical characteristic, diagnosis and treatment strategies of anorectal malignant melanoma.

Methods

The data of 57 patients with anorectal malignant melanoma was collected and retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Rectal bleeding and anal mass were found to be common symptoms of anorectal malignant melanoma. The preoperative diagnosis rate of anorectal malignant melanoma was 48.6%. The overall 3-year and 5-year survival rate was 38.0% and 21.3% respectively. The 3-year survival rates of stage I and II patients were 63.0% and 16.7% respectively (P=0.000), and the 5-year survival rates were 33.3% and 11.1% (P=0.001), which both had significant statistic differences. The 3-year survival rate of patients undergone abdmoninoperineal resection and patients undergone wide local excision were 36.7% and 53.0% respectively (P=0.280), while the 5-year survival rate were 24.1% and 23.1% (P=0.642), which both had no significant statistic differences.

Conclusions

This study identified no survival advantage to abdominoperineal resection in treatment of anorectal malignant melanoma, and we propose that wide local excision could be considered as the initial treatment of choice.
Diagnostic value of dual-source CT in Kawasaki disease
Authors: CHAO Bao-ting , WANG Xi-ming , WU Le-bin , CHEN Jie , CHENG Zhao-ping , WU Da-wei , DUAN Yan-hua
Published: January 2024

Background

Doppler color echocardiography is a common method for detecting coronary artery lesions in patients with Kawasaki disease (KD). However, the diagnostic accuracy for the whole coronary artery lesions is limited. The purpose of this study was to compare the diagnostic value of dual-source computed tomography (DSCT) and Doppler color echocardiography for the assessment of coronary artery lesions caused by KD.

Methods

Sixteen patients, 12 with typical KD and 4 with atypical KD, underwent DSCT and Doppler color echocardiography. The position and internal diameter of each coronary artery lesion was measured. Correlation analysis was used to compare the diagnostic value of the two imaging modalities.

Results

In the typical KD group, seven patients did not have any coronary artery lesion as confirmed by both DSCT scans and Doppler color echocardiography; in four patients proximal coronary artery injuries were identified by both modalities; in one patient an aneurysm in the middle and distal segments of the coronary artery was detected by DSCT but was negative in Doppler color echocardiography. In the atypical KD group, three cases showed the same results with both modalities, while one case with coronary artery stenosis in the middle segment was identified by DSCT but not detected by Doppler color echocardiography. There was a good correlation between the two imaging modalities (Kappa value, 0.768 (≥0.75)).

Conclusion

DSCT coronary artery angiography is an accurate, non-invasive, and valuable technique for detecting and following up coronary artery lesions in patients with KD.
Histone deacetylase inhibitor promotes differentiation of embryonic stem cells into neural cells in adherent monoculture
Authors: YAO Xing , ZHANG Jia-rong , HUANG Hua-rong , DAI Li-cheng , LIU Qing-jun , ZHANG Ming
Published: January 2024

Background

Embryonic stem (ES) cells poss unlimited self-renewal capacity and the ability to differentiate into cell of all three germ layers in vitro. Induced differentiation of ES cells to neural lineage cells has great potential in basic study of neurogenesis and regeneration therapy of neurodegenerative diseases. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors enhance histone acetylation so that globularly activate gene expression and may initiate multilineage differentiation. In this study, we aimed to develop a method to induce the differentiation of ES cells to neural cells combining HDAC inhibition and neural cell selection.

Methods

In this study, we used HDAC inhibitor sodium butyrate (NaB) to induce the differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells to neural cells through monolayer culture. After differentiation initiation by histone deacetylase inhibitor sodium butyrate, neural cells were induced and selected with a serum free culture system.

Results

Homogeneous neurons without glial cells demonstrated by molecular marker expression were differentiated with the method. The resultant neurons were excitable.

Conclusion

The method combined differentiation induction effect of HDAC inhibitors and selective culture system to derive neural cells from ES cells, and implied the involvement of epigenetic regulation in neural differentiation.
Characteristics associated with falls among the elderly within aged care wards in a tertiary hospital: a retrospective case-control study
Authors: CHEN Xue-li , LIU Yun-hu , Daniel Chan KY , SHEN Qing , Van Huong Nguyen
Published: January 2024

Background

Falls are the most frequently reported adverse events in inpatient settings. We conducted a retrospective case-control study of inpatient falls within aged care wards in a tertiary hospital to investigate the associated characteristics of elderly patients suffering from falls and fall-related characteristics.

Methods

Consecutive retrospective cross-sectional design spanned July 2006 to December 2008. Patient group: Information on all aged care inpatients who suffered from 1 or more falls was extracted from Incident Information Management System (IIMS). Further details about the particular admission(s) were obtained from patients’ medical records, e.g., patients’ characteristics and circumstances surrounding the falls. Randomly selected aged care patients who did not suffer from a fall and who were discharged from the hospital in the same period served control group. Characteristics among patients with single fall and recurrent falls, as well as non-fallers were compared.

Results

Of the 438 falls evaluated, 71.9% occurred in patients’ room and 18.9% in patients’ bathroom/toilet. The common activities were moving/transferring and taking shower/toileting, respectively, 70.3%, 12.1% while occurring falls; and time of falls had a high peak during 9:00–11:00 a.m. Many were unassisted while falling. The common contributing factors for fall were intrinsic factors. Patients with recurrent falls were more likely to have lower Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score. Logistic regression analysis showed length of stay longer than five weeks, dementia and stroke were independent risk factors for recurrent falls; and living in hostel/nursing home preadmission, needing assistance with mobility, cognitive impairment, stroke, incontinence and arthritis/osteoporosis were independent risk factors for fall.

Conclusions

In an aged care ward, falls are independently associated with recurrent factors. Cognitive impairment/dementia was a strong risk factor for falls, and main causes leading to fall were intrinsic factors. For patients with cognitive impairment/dementia and behavioral disorder providing special and effective interventions is of paramount importance for reducing the incidence of fall in an aged care ward in hospital settings.
Prevention of iodinated contrast-induced nephropathy
Authors: LI Jian-hua , HE Neng-shu
Published: January 2024

Objective

To lessen the occurrence of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN), the preventive measures of CIN were reviewed.

Data sources

The data used in this review were from PubMed with relevant English articles and from Chinese Knowledge Information (CNKI) published from 1989 to 2009. The search terms were “contrast medium”, ‘contrast-induced nephropathy” and “prevention”. Articles involved in prevention of CIN were selected.

Study selection

CIN is the third most common cause of acute kidney injury and is associated with an unfavorable prognosis. The best treatment is prophylaxis because CIN can not be reversed or ameliorated.

Results

Thirty articles were included. Among various preventive measures, pericatheterization hydration is almost universally accepted as an appropriate and safe measure to prevent CIN, although there is no agreement as to composition, amount, and timing of hydration. Based on the use of concomitant nephrotoxic agents or high doses of contrast medium (CM) is one of risk factors for CIN, discontinuation of potentially nephrotoxic drugs 2-3 days before and after the procedure until renal function recover, and using the lowest possible dose of CM can decrease the risk of CIN. It is promising that removing the majority of CM from the coronary sinus, before it enters the systemic circulation, during coronary angiography can reduce the risk for CIN in animal studies and in limited clinical trials. Inconsistent data exist with respect to application of some vasodilators (endothelin antagonists and adenosine antagonists) and antioxidants (N-acetylcysteine and statins) in preventing CIN in high-risk patients, and new vasodilators and antioxidants continue to be tested.

Conclusions

Pericatheterization hydration, discontinuation of nephrotoxic drugs, and using the lowest possible dose of CM are effective measures to lessen the risk for CIN. Other prophylactic strategies and some drugs are promising, but further confirmation is required.
Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using the bone-posterior cruciate ligament-bone allograft
Authors: JIAO Chen , AO Ying-fang , LIU Ping , XIE Xing , LIU Chen , MA Yong
Published: January 2024

Background

Allografts were widely used in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction for patients with ACL rupture of the knee. This study was to approve the feasibility of bone-posterior cruciate ligament-bone (BPCLB) allograft transplantation in ACL reconstruction.

Methods

Eight patients underwent ACL reconstructions with BPCLB allografts and were followed up for an average period of 32 months after operation.

Results

Subjective parameters including International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), modified Larson knee ligament, Lysholm, and Tegner rating scales were much improved and side to side KT-2000 arthrometer difference was much less postoperatively. Pivot shift test was negative in all patients. The reconstructed ACL had satisfactory shape and tension.

Conclusions

BPCLB allograft is an optional choice for ACL reconstruction.
Radiolabeling LyP-1 peptide and preliminary biodistribution evaluation in mice bearing MDA-MB-435 xenografts
Authors: YU Ming-ming , WANG Rong-fu , CHEN Yue-hua , ZHOU Hai-zhong , DENG Xiao-hu
Published: January 2024

Background

Recent studies have shown the LyP-1 peptide can home to either tumor lymphatics or the tumor cells and be internalized by targeted cells. This study aimed to investigate the possibility of using Na131I labeled LyP-1 peptide as an imaging agent or a therapeutic radiopharmaceutical in breast carcinoma and its metastasis.

Methods

The 10-mer cyclic peptide contained the LyP-1 sequence (YCGNKRTRGC) was synthesized by the solid phase method. Disulfide bonds between the cysteines maintain the cyclic structure. The LyP-1 peptide was labeled with Na131I using the chloramine-T method. The [131I] LyP-1 peptide and a [131I] control peptide were injected via tail vein into nude mice bearing MDA-MB-435 tumor xenografts. Biodistribution and imaging results in vivo were obtained.

Results

The labeling efficiencies of LyP-1 peptide reached 80%±5% (n=5). The radiochemical purity was about 96%. The radiochemical purity of the labeled compound remains 92% at 24 hours in human serum at 37°C. In the biodistribution studies, the [131I] LyP-1 peptide accumulated in the tumor to a higher level than in other organs. The [131I] LyP-1 peptide can successfully image the tumor in nude mice bearing MDA-MB-435 tumor xenografts.

Conclusions

The LyP-1 peptide could be effectively labeled with Na131I and the labeled compound is stable in human

serum at 37°C for 24 hours. The high specificity of [131I] LyP-1 peptide suggests it may be a promising new radiotracer for identifying tumors.
A meta-analysis of the long-term effects of chronic pancreatitis surgical treatments: duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection versus pancreatoduodenectomy
Authors: LÜ Wen-ping , SHI Qing , ZHANG Wen-zhi , CAI Shou-wang , JIANG Kai , DONG Jia-hong
Published: January 2024

Background

Surgery is regarded as the most effective treatment to relieve pain and reduce complications in chronic pancreatitis (CP). Two major strategies exist: duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection (DPPHR) and pancreatoduodenectomy (PD). Many studies suggest that DPPHR offers advantages during surgery and in the short-term; however, the long-term effects have not been thoroughly investigated. We analyzed the long-term outcomes of DPPHR and PD, over follow-up times of at least 1 year, to determine the optimal surgical treatment for CP.

Methods

We systemically reviewed all CP surgical treatment reports, and only included randomized controlled trials (RCT) comparing DPPHR and PD, excluding unqualified studies using several pre-specified criteria. When multiple publications of a single trial were found, the most comprehensive current data were selected. Characteristics of the study populations and long-term postoperative outcome parameters were collected. The quality of the studies and data was analyzed using RevMan 4.2 software.

Results

Five trials were qualified for meta-analysis, with 261 participants in total (114 in the DPPHR group and 147 in the PD group). There were no significant differences in the age, gender, or indications for surgery of each group. At the mean of 5.7-year (1-14 years) follow-up examination, DPPHR and PD resulted in equally effective pain relief, exocrine and endocrine function, and similar mortality rates (P >0.05); however, DPPHR patients had improved global quality of life and weight gain, and reduced diarrhea and fatigue (P <0.05).

Conclusion DPPHR and PD result in equal pain relief, mortality, and pancreatic function; however, DPPHR provides superior long-term outcomes.
Tissue-engineered calcium phosphate cement in rabbit femoral condylar bone defects
Authors: LIU Chun-rong , MIAO Jun , XIA Qun , HUANG Hong-chao , GONG Chen , YANG Qiang , LI Lan-ying
Published: January 2024

Background

Calcium phosphate cement (CPC) is a favorable bone-graft substitute, with excellent biocompatibility and osteoconductivity. However, its reduced osteoinductive ability may limit the utility of CPC. To increase its osteoinductive potential, this study aimed to prepare tissue-engineered CPC and evaluate its use in the repair of bone defects. The fate of transplanted seed cellsin vivowas observed at the same time.

Methods

Tissue-engineered CPC was prepared by seeding CPC with encapsulated bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) expressing recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) and green fluorescent protein (GFP). Tissue-engineered CPC and pure CPC were implanted into rabbit femoral condyle bone defects respectively. Twelve weeks later, radiographs, morphological observations, histomorphometrical evaluations, andin vivotracing were performed.

Results

The radiographs revealed better absorption and faster new bone formation for tissue-engineered CPC than pure CPC. Morphological and histomorphometrical evaluations indicated that tissue-engineered CPC separated into numerous small blocks, with active absorption and reconstruction noted, whereas the residual CPC area was larger in the group treated with pure CPC. In the tissue-engineered CPC group,in vivotracing revealed numerous cells expressing both GFP and rhBMP-2 that were distributed in the medullar cavity and on the surface of bony trabeculae.

Conclusion

Tissue-engineered CPC can effectively repair bone defects, with allogenic seeded cells able to grow and differentiatein vivoafter transplantation.
Effect of noninvasive, positive pressure ventilation on patients with severe, stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a meta-analysis
Authors: SHI Jia-xin , XU Jin , SUN Wen-kui , SU Xin , ZHANG Yan , SHI Yi
Published: January 2024

Background

This meta-analysis evaluated the effect of noninvasive, positive pressure ventilation on severe, stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods

PUBMED, CNKI, Wanfang, EMBASE and the Cochrane trials databases were searched. Randomized controlled trials of patients with severe, stable COPD and receiving noninvasive positive pressure ventilation, compared with sham ventilation or no ventilation, were reviewed. The mortality, physiological and health related parameters were pooled to yield odds ratio (OR), weighted mean differences or standardized mean differences (SMD), with 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

Eight parallel and three crossover randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria. Pooled analysis for parallel, randomized controlled trials showed noninvasive positive pressure ventilation: (1) Did not affect the 12- or 24-month mortality (OR 0.82, 95% CI: 0.48 to 1.41); (2) Improved the arterial carbon dioxide tension (SMD −0.88, 95% CI: −1.43 to −0.34); (3) Did not improve forced expiratory volume in one second (SMD 0.20, 95% CI: −0.06 to 0.46), maximal inspiratory pressure (SMD 0.01, 95% CI: −0.28 to 0.29) or 6-minute walk distance (SMD 0.17, 95% CI: −0.16 to 0.50); (4) Subgroup analysis showed noninvasive positive pressure ventilation improved the arterial carbon dioxide tension in hypercapnic patients. Pooled analysis for crossover randomized controlled trials did not show improvement in arterial blood gas or forced expiratory volume in one second with noninvasive positive pressure ventilation.

Conclusions

Noninvasive positive pressure ventilation improves the arterial carbon dioxide tension but does not improve the mortality, pulmonary function, or exercise tolerance and should be cautiously used in severe stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
A preliminary experimental study on the cardiac toxicity of glutamate and the role of α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor in rats
Authors: LIU Yan , ZHOU Lan , XU Hai-fei , YAN Li , DING Fan , HAO Wei , CAO Ji-min , GAO Xue
Published: January 2024

Background

Monosodium L-glutamate (MSG) is a food flavour enhancer and its potential harmfulness to the heart remains controversial. We investigated whether MSG could induce cardiac arrhythmias and apoptosis via the α-amino-3-hydro×y-5-methyl-4-iso×azolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor.

Methods

Myocardial infarction (MI) was created by ligating the coronary artery and ventricular arrhythmias were monitored by electrocardiogram in the rat in vivo. Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were isolated and cultured. Cell viability was estimated by 3-(4,5)-dimethylthiahiazo(-z-yl)-3,5-di-phenytetrazoliumromide (MTT) assay. Calcium mobilization was monitored by confocal microscopy. Cardiomyocyte apoptosis was evaluated by acridine orange staining, flow cytometry, DNA laddering, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting.

Results

MSG (i.v.) decreased the heart rate at 0.5 g/kg and serious bradycardia at 1.5 g/kg, but could not induce ventricular tachyarrhythmias in normal rats in vivo. In rats with acute MI in vivo, however, MSG (1.5 g/kg, i.v.) induced ventricular tachyarrhythmias and these arrhythmias could be prevented by blocking the AMPA and N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. Selectively activating the AMPA or NMDA receptor induced ventricular tachyarrhythmias in MI rats. At the cellular level, AMPA induced calcium mobilization, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis in cultured cardiomyocytes, especially when the AMPA receptor desensitization were blocked by cyclothiazide. The above toxic cellular effects of AMPA were abolished by AMPA receptor blockade or by H2O2 scavengers.

Conclusions

MSG induces bradycardia in normal rats, but triggers lethal tachyarrhythmias in myocardial infarcted rats probably by hindering AMPA receptors. AMPA receptor overstimulation also induces cardiomyocyte apoptosis, which may facilitate arrhythmia.
Mechanical properties of nickel-titanium archwire used in the final treatment phase of Tip-Edge Plus technique: an in vitro study
Authors: SHEN Xiao , SUN Xin-hua , TIAN Hua , ZHANG Chun-bo , YAN Kuo , GUO Yong-liang
Published: January 2024

Background

As the only active component in final treatment phase of Tip-Edge Plus technique, the activation of nickel-titanium orthodontic archwires is one of the factors that affect the torque expression. It is necessary to evaluate the mechanical properties of the nickel-titanium wire used in the final treatment phase in simulated oral environments to forecast the treatment outcomes.

Methods

The mechanical properties of 171 thermal nickel-titanium wires of 0.35 mm (0.014-in) in diameters with different deflection of 40 mm in length were investigated with three-point bending test. The samples were divided into 2 groups: as-received and bended groups. In the bended group, samples were divided into 7 subgroups according to the amounts of deflection and named by the canine angulations (−25°, −19°, −13°, −7°, −1°, +5°, +11°). The deflection of wires was made by inserting the wires into the deep tunnel of Tip-Edge Plus brackets positioned in plaster casts with different canine angulations to mimic the use of nickel-titanium wires in the final treatment phase. Immersed the bended group in artificial saliva (pH 6.8) and preserved at 37.0°C. Eight durations of incubation were tested: 1 to 8 weeks. Three analogous samples of each group and subgroups were tested per week. Stiffness (YS:E) and the load-deflection characteristics of unloading plateau section were obtained.

Results

Significant changes in specific mechanical properties were observed in long-term immersed and large deflected wires compared with as-received groups. Both immersion time and deflection affected the mechanical properties of wires in the simulated oral environment, and the two factors had synergistic effect. In groups −25°, −19° and −13°, stiffness (YS:E) increased then decreased and average plateau force and ratio of variance decreased then increased correspondingly at specific time.

Conclusions

In the final treatment phase of Tip-Edge Plus technique, the mechanical properties of nickel-titanium wire are associated with the using time and amounts of deflection and it may affect treatment outcomes. As the main reason for wire deflection, canine crown angulation plays an important role in the wire performance. It may be wise to focus on the canine crown angulations and using time in clinic with Tip-Edge Plus technique and make proper adjustment to help to make sure the treatment outcomes.