ABSTRACT
Objective To predict the potential suitable growth areas of Epimedium brevicornu Maxim.under current climate conditions in China;To provide basis for the sustainable utilization of Epimedium brevicornu Maxim.resources and production planning.Methods Based on 267 screened species distribution data of Epimedium brevicornu Maxim.and 8 environmental factors,the MaxEnt parameters were optimized by the R language kuenm package.The main environmental factors that affect the distribution of Epimedium brevicornu Maxim.was analyzed and its potential distribution range was predicted.Results The omission rate of the optimal model operation results was 0.044 8,AICc=6 409.884 5,AUC=0.986,indicating a high accuracy of the model.Based on the contribution rate of environmental factors and the knife cut method,it was indicated that the key environmental factors affecting the current distribution of Epimedium brevicornu Maxim.were mainly the average precipitation in July,the average highest temperature in February,the average precipitation in September,the coldest season precipitation,the coefficient of variation of precipitation,the standard deviation of seasonal temperature changes,and the warmest season precipitation.The simulation results showed that the total suitable area for Epimedium brevicornu Maxim.in China under current climate conditions was approximately 221.14×104 km2,concentrated in the central and central southern regions of China.The area of the high suitability zone was approximately 23.13×104 km2;the area of the suitable growth zone was approximately 73.78×104 km2;the area of low suitability zone was approximately 124.22×104 km2.Conclusion This study provides a basis and reference for the artificial cultivation planning and sustainable utilization of Epimedium brevicornu Maxim.resources.
ABSTRACT
This study explored the ideas and methods of acupuncture for Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) with the core principle of “to treat flaccidity, select the yangming (阳明) channel only”. The main pathological mechanism of GBS is deficiency of qi and blood in the yangming channel, malnutrition of all sinews, diminished spleen and stomach function leading to the production of pathogenic damp-heat qi, which obstructs the meridians, and gradually affects the liver and kidneys, consuming essence and damaging blood. Concurrently, dysfunction of the dumai (督脉) pivotal mechanism and lack of moisture in sinews and vessels result in symptoms such as skin numbness, paralysis, and muscle wastage. In clinical diagnosis and treatment, a combination of syndrome and channel differentiation is taken. Treatment primarily focuses on acupoints of yangming channel, aiming to supplement qi and blood, and acupoints of du mai are combined to open the vessel and fill the marrow. Specific acupoints are selected based on syndrome differentiation, providing comprehensive regulation to promote harmonization of qi and blood, relieve meridians, and the smooth generation and circulation of whole body fluids. This, in turn, enhances the strength of muscles and bones, and fosters a robust and freely moving body.
ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the expression and role of roundabout guidance receptor 1 (Robo1) in the neuronal differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) induced by valproate (VPA). Methods The hippocampus NSCs of SD rats were isolated and cultured. Normal NSCs and VPA-treated NSCs were extracted from 10 SD rats. After VPA treatment, the proportion of neuron-specific marker β-tubulin III (Tuj1) positive neurons differentiated from NSCs were detected by immunofluorescence. The differentially expressed mRNA in normal NSCs and VPA-induced NSCs were detected by gene chip technology. After VPA treatment, the expression levels of Robo1 mRNA and protein were detected by Real-time PCR and Western blotting. The dynamic changes of Robo1 mRNA were detected by Real-time PCR after the differentiation of NSCs. After the expression of Robo1 was down-regulated in NSCs by small interfering RNA, the expression of Robo1 protein was detected by Western blotting, and the expression levels of neuron-specific markers Tuj1 and microtubule associated protein-2 (MAP-2) were detected by Real-time PCR and immunofluorescence. Results VPA induced NSCs to differentiate into neurons. Compared with the control group, the expression levels of Robo1 mRNA and protein in the differentiation of NSCs were significantly up-regulated during valproate treatment. After interference of Robo1 expression, not only Robo1 upregulation was inhibited during the differentiation of NSCs induced by VPA, but also the proportion of NSCs differentiated into neurons decreased. Conclusion VPA may promote the differentiation of NSCs into neurons by up-regulating the expression of Robo1.
ABSTRACT
For the first time, this study evaluated the gender differences and mechanisms of the antidepressant effects of raw Rehmanniae Radix(RRR) based on the classic depression model with traditional Chinese medicine syndrome of Yin deficiency and internal heat. The depression model with Yin deficiency and internal heat was established by the widely recognized and applied method of thyroxine induction of the classic depression model with Yin deficiency and internal heat(chronic unpredictable mild stress). Male and female mice were simultaneously treated with RRR. The study analyzed indicators of nourishing Yin and clearing heat, conventional antidepressant efficacy test indicators, and important biomolecules reflecting the pathogenesis and prevention and treatment mechanisms of depression, and conducted a correlation analysis of antidepressant efficacy, Yin-nourishing and heat-clearing efficacy, and biological mechanism in different genders, thereby comprehensively assessing the antidepressant effects of RRR on depression of Yin deficiency and internal heat, as well as its gender differences and mechanisms. RRR exhibited antidepressant effects in both male and female mouse models, and its antidepressant efficacy showed gender differences, with a superior effect observed in females. Moreover, the effects of RRR on enhancing or improving hippocampal neuronal pathology, nucleus-positive areas, postsynaptic dense area protein 95, and synaptophysin protein expression were more significant in females than in males. In addition, RRR significantly reversed the abnormal upregulation of nuclear factor(NF)-κB/cyclooxygenase 2(COX2)/NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3(NLRP3) pathway proteins in the hippocampus of both male and female mouse models. The antidepressant effects of RRR were more pronounced in depression female mice with Yin deficiency and internal heat syndrome, possibly due to the improvement of neuronal damage and enhancement of neuroplasticity. The antidepressant mechanisms of RRR for depression with Yin deficiency and internal heat syndrome may be associated with the downregulation of the NF-κB/COX2/NLRP3 pathway to reduce neuronal damage and enhance neuroplasticity.
Subject(s)
Male , Female , Mice , Animals , Yin Deficiency , NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein , Sex Factors , Cyclooxygenase 2 , NF-kappa B , Antidepressive Agents/pharmacologyABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE@#To compare the clinical efficacy between acupuncture combined with western medication and simple western medication for ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG), and to explore its possible mechanism.@*METHODS@#A total of 60 patients of ocular myasthenia gravis were randomized into an acupuncture combined with western medication group (30 cases, 1 case dropped off) and a western medication group (30 cases, 2 cases dropped off). Oral pyridostigmine bromide tablet and prednisone acetate tablet were given in the western medication group. On the basis of the treatment in the western medication group, Tongdu Tiaoqi acupuncture (acupuncture for unblocking the governor vessel and regulating qi ) was applied at Baihui (GV 20), Fengfu (GV 16), Hegu (LI 4), Zusanli (ST 36), etc. in the acupuncture combined with western medication group, once a day, 6 days a week. The treatment was given 8 weeks in both groups. Before and after treatment, the OMG clinical absolute score was observed, electrophysiological indexes of orbicularis oculi (value of mean jitter, percentage of jitter >55 μs and percentage of blocks) were measured by single-fiber electromyography (SFEMG), serum levels of acetylcholine receptor antibody (AChR-Ab), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin-4 (IL-4) were detected by ELISA method.@*RESULTS@#After treatment, the OMG clinical absolute scores, values of mean jitter, percentages of jitter >55 μs, percentages of blocks and serum levels of AChR-Ab, IFN-γ and IL-4 were decreased compared before treatment in both groups (P<0.05), and those in the acupuncture combined with western medication group were lower than the western medication group (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Acupuncture combined with western medication can effectively improve ptosis, palpebra superior fatigability, eye movement disorder and neuromuscular junction dysfunction in patients with ocular myasthenia gravis, the therapeutic effect is superior to simple western medication. Its mechanism may be related to down-regulating serum levels of AChR-Ab, IFN-γ and IL-4 and promoting the recovery of orbicularis oculi function.
Subject(s)
Humans , Acupuncture Therapy , Facial Muscles , Interferon-gamma , Interleukin-4 , Myasthenia Gravis/drug therapyABSTRACT
Objective @#To construct a cell-free DNA ( cfDNA) methylation model for early screening in male pa- tients with gastric cancer by using novel cfDNA methylation detection technology.@*Methods @#Methylation informa- tion of the whole genome of gastric cancer patients were detected by cell-free methylated DNA immunoprecipitation and highthroughput sequencing ( cfMeDIP-seq ) technology and locate gastrogenic cfDNA. Then bioinformation methods were used to extract specific methylation labels which could distinguish GC patients and establish diagnosis model by random forest algorithm. Related validation clinical researches were also conducted. @*Results @#63 most sig- nificant DMR were selected to construct the cfDNA methylation model based on GC samples and normal control samples,the goal sensitivity was above 85 percent while the goal specificity was above 95% .The sensitivity and specificity of the validation set were 98. 7% and 99. 0% while the area under curve(AUC) was 0. 999.@*Conclusion@#The cfDNA methylation model constructed in this study has good performance in predicting GC.
ABSTRACT
Objective:To observe the effects of Cnidii Fructus hypnotic active components (CHC) on the behaviors of rats with p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA)-induced insomnia and melatonin (MT) synthesis rate-limiting enzyme arylalkylamine <italic>N</italic>-acetyltransferase (AANAT), and explore the protective mechanism of CHC on the pineal gland. Method:Male SD rats of SPF grade were randomly divided into a blank control group, a model group, a MT group, and high-, medium-, and low-dose CHC groups with 10 rats in each group. Except for the blank control group, other groups received 4.5% PCPA suspension at 10 mL·kg<sup>-1</sup>, intragastric administration, for two consecutive days. After PCPA model of insomnia was established, normal and model groups were gavaged at the same volume of 2% Tween-80, MT control group (10 mg·kg<sup>-1</sup>), CHC was high, medium and low (60, 30, 15 mg·kg<sup>-1</sup>), 10 mL·kg<sup>-1</sup>, once a day, for consecutive 7 days. Four days after administration, open field, elevated cross maze, and pentobarbital sodium-induced sleep tests were conducted, respectively. Serum MT was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The mRNA expression level of AANAT was determined by real-time fluorescence-based quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR). The expression of AANAT protein in the pineal gland was detected by Western blot. Result:Compared with the results in the blank control group, the total distance of open field activity and standing times and duration in the central area were increased (<italic>P</italic><0.05, <italic>P</italic><0.01), the proportions of open arm entry (OE%) and open arm time (OT%) were decreased (<italic>P</italic><0.05), and the sleep latency was prolonged (<italic>P</italic><0.01) in the model group. Compared with the model group, no significant difference was observed in the low-dose CHC group, while other groups exhibited reduced total distance of activity (<italic>P</italic><0.05, <italic>P</italic><0.01), elevated OE% (<italic>P</italic><0.05), shortened sleep latency, and prolonged sleep time (<italic>P</italic><0.05, <italic>P</italic><0.01). Compared with the serum MT in the blank control group, that in the model group was decreased (<italic>P</italic><0.01). Compared with the model group, no significant difference was observed in the low-dose CHC group, while other groups displayed increased serum MT (<italic>P</italic><0.05). The mRNA and protein expression of AANAT was decreased in the model group as compared with that in the blank control group (<italic>P</italic><0.01). Compared with the model group, the MT group and the high-dose CHC group showed up-regulated expression (<italic>P</italic><0.05). Conclusion:CHC improved the behavioral indexes of PCPA-induced insomnia, increased the synthesis and secretion of MT in pineal cells, and elevated the serum MT level, which was related to the up-regulation of the mRNA and protein expression of AANAT in the pineal gland.
ABSTRACT
Objective:To investigate the relationship between serum fibroblast growth factor 21/23 level, trauma severity and prognosis in middle-aged and older adult patients with traumatic fracture.Methods:A total of 126 middle-aged and older adult patients with traumatic facture who received treatment in the Second People's Hospital of Lishui, China between June 2017 and June 2019 were included in the study group. Fifty healthy controls who concurrently received physical examination in the Second People's Hospital of Lishui were included in the control group. The study group was divided into five subgroups according to relevant criteria: mild, moderate, severe, poor prognosis and good prognosis. The levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), FGF21 and FGF23 were measured.Results:On admission, serum CRP, PCT, FGF23, FGF2 levels in the study group were (19.18 ± 5.66) mg/L, (0.71 ± 0.20) μg/L, (79.75 ± 18.62)μg/L,(52.10 ± 16.34) μg/L, respectively, and they were significantly higher than those in the control group [ (7.60 ± 2.61) mg/L, (0.30 ± 0.11) μg/L, (40.18 ± 10.33) μg/L, (30.11 ± 10.19) μg/L, t = 18.888, 17.750, 18.336, 11.032, all P < 0.001). On admission, serum CRP, PCT, FGF23, FGF2 levels in the study group were (19.18 ± 5.66) mg/L, (0.71 ± 0.20) μg/L, (79.75 ± 18.62) μg/L, (52.10 ± 16.34) μg/L, respectively, and they were significantly increased at 1 day [(21.59 ± 4.53) mg/L, (0.79 ± 0.22) μg/L, (83.85 ± 19.07) μg/L, (55.18 ± 16.55) μg/L, t = 3.72, 3.29, 1.56, 1.56, P < 0.05, P < 0.05, P = 0.122, P = 0.122] and 3 days after surgery [(23.15 ± 3.16) mg/L, (0.80 ± 0.24) μg/L, (88.11 ± 19.80) μg/L, (59.70 ± 16.07) μg/L, t = 6.65, 3.12, 3.59, 3.77, all P < 0.05] , and significantly decreased at 7 days after surgery [(14.35 ± 4.02) mg/L, (0.52 ± 0.16) μg/L, (50.06 ± 15.50) μg/L, (32.18 ± 12.52) μg/L, t = 8.31, 8.58, 13.77, 11.11, all P < 0.001]. On admission, there were significant differences in serum CRP, PCT, FGF23, FGF21 levels between mild, moderate and severe groups ( F = 25.087, 15.851, 15.831 and 12.645, all P < 0.001). On admission, serum CRP, PCT, FGF23, FGF21 levels in the poor prognosis group were significantly higher than those in the good prognosis group ( t = 5.757, 4.984, 3.189 and 4.006, all P < 0.001). The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis results showed that serum CRP, PCT, FGF23, FGF21 levels in patients with traumatic fracture on admission had a certain value in the prediction of poor prognosis. Combined detection of these four indexes had the highest value, with AUC (0.95 CI) of 0.877 (0.783-0.982). Conclusion:Serum FGF21 and FGF23 levels have a certain value in the prediction of severity and prognosis of traumatic fracture in middle-aged and older adult patients.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the mechanism of Tojapride, a Chinese herbal formula extract, on strengthening the barrier function of esophageal epithelium in rats with reflux esophagitis (RE).@*METHODS@#Ten out of 85 SD rats were randomly selected as the sham group (n10), and 75 rats were developed a reflux esophagitis model (RE) by the esophageal and duodenal side-to-side anastomosis. Fifty successful modeling rats were divided into different medicated groups through a random number table including the model, low-, medium-, and high-dose of Tojapride as well as omeprazole groups (n10). Three doses of Tojapride [5.73, 11.46, 22.92 g/(kg•d)] and omeprazole [4.17 mg/(kg•d)] were administrated intragastrically twice daily for 3 weeks. And the rats in the sham and model groups were administered 10 mL/kg distilled water. Gastric fluid was collected and the supernatant was kept to measure for volume, pH value and acidity. Esophageal tissues were isolated to monitor the morphological changes through hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, and esophageal epithelial ultrastructure was observed by transmission electron microscopy. The expressions of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells p65 (NF-KBp65), κB kinase beta (IKKß), occludin, and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) in the esophageal tissues were measured by immunohistochemistry and Western blot, respectively.@*RESULTS@#The gastric pH value in the model group was significantly lower than the sham group (P<0.05). Compared with the model group, gastric pH value in the omeprazole and medium-dose of Tojapride groups were significantly higher (P<0.05). A large area of ulceration was found on the esophageal mucosa from the model rats, while varying degrees of congestion and partially visible erosion was observed in the remaining groups. Remarkable increase in cell gap width and decrease in desmosome count was seen in RE rats and the effect was reversed by Tojapride treatment. Compared with the sham group, the IKKß levels were significantly higher in the model group (P<0.05). However, the IKKß levels were down-regulated after treatment by all doses of Tojapride (P<0.01 or P<0.05). The occluding and ZO-1 levels decreased in the model group compared with the sham group (Ps0.01 or Ps0.05), while both indices were significantly up-regulated in the Tojapride-treated groups (P<0.01 or P<0.05).@*CONCLUSIONS@#Tojapride could improve the pathological conditions of esophageal epithelium in RE rats. The underlying mechanisms may involve in down-regulating the IKKß expression and elevating ZO-1 and occludin expression, thereby alleviating the inflammation of the esophagus and strengthening the barrier function of the esophageal epithelium.
ABSTRACT
@#AIM:To investigate the protective effects of naringin(Nar)phospholipid complex(NPC)on oxidative injury in retinal pigment epithelium cells(ARPE-19 cells)induced by tert-butyl hydroperoxide(t-BHP)and elucidate the underlying mechanism.<p>METHODS:The NPC was prepared by solvent method. Experimental cells are divided into seven groups: control group \〖cultured with dimethylsulfoxide(DMSO)\〗, model group(intervention with 200μmol/L t-BHP), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)-siRNA group(cell transfection for Nrf2 gene), naringin group(add 200μmol/L t-BHP after pretreatment with 200μmol/L naringin medium), NPC group(add 200μmol/L t-BHP after pretreatment with 200μmol/L NPC medium), Nrf2-siRNA+ naringin group(after 200μmol/L naringin pretreatment, Nrf2 gene interference, then add 200μmol/L t-BHP)and Nrf2-siRNA+ NPC group(after 200μmol/L NPC pretreatment, Nrf2 gene interference, then add 200μmol/L t-BHP). The intracellular levels of superoxide dismutase(SOD), malondialdehyde(MDA)and total antioxidant capacity(T-AOC)were detected, intracellular level of reactive oxygen species(ROS)was detected by DCFH-DA staining method. The mRNA and protein expressions of HO-1, NQO-1, GCL and Nrf2 were detected by real-time PCR and western blot, respectively. <p>RESULTS:NPC more significantly increased the levels of SOD and T-AOC, reduced the contents of ROS and MDA than naringin in t-BHP-treated ARPE-19 cells. After naringin and NPC pre-protected ARPE-19 cells, the relative expression and protein expression of Nrf2, HO-1, NQO-1 and GCL mRNA were higher than those of the model group and Nrf2-siRNA group. There were statistically significant differences in the relative expression of 4 genes and the expression levels of 4 proteins in the naringin group and the NPC group, the Nrf2-siRNA+naringin group and the Nrf2-siRNA+NPC group. The expression of Nrf2, HO-1 and NQO-1 protein in the Nrf2-siRNA+naringin group was not significantly different than that in the Nrf2-siRNA group. Compared with the Nrf2-siRNA group, the expression of 4 proteins in the Nrf2-siRNA+NPC group was statistically significant, and the effect of NPC was significantly stronger than that of naringin.<p>CONCLUSION: After naringin forms a phospholipid complex, it can significantly increase the antioxidant capacity in cells and reduce the oxidation level. It up-regulates the expression of Nrf2 and its downstream antioxidant enzymes and phase Ⅱ detoxification enzymes by activating the Nrf2/ARE antioxidative stress pathway to better protect ARPE-19 cells from oxidative damage.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE@#To analyze the preoperative influencing factors of varus after Oxford unicompartmental knee arthroplasty.@*METHODS@#A total of 660 patients (767 knees) undergoing Oxford unicompartmental knee arthroplasty in adult joint reconstruction surgery department of Beijing Jishuitan Hospital from January 2018 to December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Inclusive criteria: diagnosis was osteoarthritis, single compartment lesions in the medial side of the knee; preoperative flexion deformity was less than 10°, active range of motion was greater than 90°; preoperative X-ray full-length images of both lower limbs showed less than 15° varus (Noyes method); anterior cruciate ligament was well functioned, The cartilage of lateral compartment of knee joint was intact.@*EXCLUSION CRITERIA@#combined with other inflammatory arthropathy; combined with extraarticular deformity; previous knee surgery history. The average age of the patients was (64.4±8.1) years, including 153 males and 497 females. The degree of post-operative varus was measured with Noyes method. The total patients were divided into varus group (Noyes≥3 °) and normal group (Noyes < 3 °). Gender, age, body mass index (BMI), range of motion (ROM), preoperative flexion deformity (FD), American Knee Society pain score (AKS) and American Knee Society function score (AKS function) were recorded. The standard anteroposterior and lateral X-ray films of knee joint and full-length lower extremity kinematic line films were taken by Sonialvision Safine Ⅱ (Shimadzu, Japan) multi-function digital tomography system. The image was measured by picture archiving and communication system (PACS). The following angles were measured preoperative Noyes angle, lateral distal femoral angle (LDFA), medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) and joint line converge angle (JLCA) were measured and analyzed.@*RESULTS@#Gender(P=0.346), operative side (P=0.619), age (P=0.746), BMI (P=0.142), preoperative ROM (P=0.102), preoperative knee pain score (P=0.131) and functional score (P=0.098) were not risk factors for postoperative varus. The influencing factors of postoperative varus were preoperative MPTA < 84 ° (P= 0.018, OR= 3.712, 95%CI: 1.250-11.027), preoperative Noyes > 5°(P=0.000, OR= 3.105, 95%CI: 1.835-5.254), preoperative FD > 5° (P= 0.001, OR=1.976, 95%CI: 1.326-3.234). Pre-operative LDFA (P=0.146) and preoperative JLCA (P= 0.709) had no significant effect on postoperative kinematic line.@*CONCLUSION@#Patients with severe preoperative varus, especially those with varus deformity mainly from the tibial side, and those with preoperative flexion deformity are more prone to get varus lower extremity kinematic line after Oxford unicompartmental knee arthroplasty.
Subject(s)
Adult , Aged , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee , Knee Joint/surgery , Knee Prosthesis , Multivariate Analysis , Osteoarthritis, Knee/surgery , Range of Motion, Articular , Retrospective StudiesABSTRACT
Objective: To evaluate the effect of daily average temperature on the atteck of allergic rhinitis (AR) by analyzing the changes of the outpatient visits of AR in Lanzhou. Methods: The meteorological and air pollution data of Lanzhou City and the outpatient visits of AR in Departments of Otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery of The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University and Gansu Provincial People's Hospital from 2013 to 2017 were collected to describe the meteorological factors, air pollutants and the outpatient visits of AR. The correlation among the three factors was then analyzed by Spearman rank correlation analysis. Using the distributed lag non-linear model, the relationship between daily average temperature and the number of daily outpatient visits of AR was studied and stratified by gender and age with the long-term trend, seasonal trend and other confounding factors controlled. Results: From 2013 to 2017, the outpatient visits of AR in the above three hospitals reached 20 008 person times. Daily average temperature in Lanzhou showed a non-linear correlation to the outpatient visits of AR, with a certain lag effect. When the daily average temperature was 22 ℃ and the cumulative lag was 21 days (lag 0-21 d), the relative risk (RR) peaked at 4.851 (95%CI: 3.986-5.904). The effect of relatively low temperature (2.3 ℃, P25), relatively high temperature (19.8 ℃, P75) and high temperature (25.5 ℃, P95) on lag 0-21 d were the highest, which were 1.761 (95%CI: 1.375-2.255), 4.299 (95%CI: 3.574-5.171) and 3.656 (95%CI: 3.046-4.389), respectively. According to the stratified analysis, low and relatively low temperature had more significant effect on the outpatient visits of AR among women and people aged 0-14 years. When lag was 0-21 days, the RR value of low temperature for female outpatient visits of AR was 1.433 (95%CI: 1.105-1.860); the RR value of relatively low temperature for female outpatient visits of AR was 1.879 (95%CI: 1.460-2.419); the RR value of low temperature for AR outpatient visits for people aged 0-14 years was 1.511 (95%CI: 0.999-2.287), the RR value of relatively low temperature for AR outpatient visits for people aged 0-14 years was 2.051 (95%CI: 1.383-3.042). Relatively high temperature, on the other hand, had a more significant effect on men and people aged 15-59 years. High temperature had a greater impact on the number of AR outpatients in men and people aged 0-14 years. Conclusions: Temperature may be an important influencing factor of AR onset in Lanzhou. At relatively high temperature (19.8 ℃), the risk of AR outpatient visits is significantly increased, and the cumulative lagged effects are observed. The sensitivity of AR patients to temperature is different in different genders and ages.
Subject(s)
Female , Humans , Male , Air Pollutants/analysis , Air Pollution/analysis , Incidence , Rhinitis, Allergic/epidemiology , TemperatureABSTRACT
Objective:To investigate immune effects of aminolevulinic acid-based photodynamic therapy (ALA-PDT) on mouse models of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) .Methods:Ultraviolet-induced SKH-1 hairless mouse models of cSCC were established, and 40 tumor-bearing mice were randomly and equally divided into several groups: control group receiving no treatment, and 7 treatment groups treated with ALA-PDT for 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 hours, as well as 3 and 7 days respectively. After treatment, these mice were sacrificed at different time points, and skin tissues measuring 5 mm 3 in size were resected. Immunohistochemical study and flow cytometry were performed to detect local infiltration of immune cells in cSCC tissues at different time points, including neutrophils, macrophages, T cells, B cells, natural killer cells and dendritic cells. Statistical analysis was done by the two-sample t test using SPSS 16.0 software. Results:The number and proportion of local neutrophils and macrophages showed the most significant increase in mouse cSCC tumors 1 hour after ALA-PDT compared with those before treatment (immunohistochemical results [number of cells per 400 × field]: 61.22 ± 6.65 vs. 22.56 ± 4.13, 59.67 ± 4.30 vs. 21.89 ± 3.26, respectively, both P < 0.05; flow cytometry results: 35.64% ± 15.33% vs. 5.46% ± 2.44%, 12.15% ± 4.86% vs. 1.98% ± 1.49%, respectively, both P < 0.05) . Both immunohistochemical study and flow cytometry showed that the expression of T cells, B cells, natural killer cells and dendritic cells significantly increased in cSCC tissues 6 hours after treatment (all P < 0.05) . After reaching the peak, the number and proportion of the above-mentioned cells decreased in cSCC tissues, but were still higher than those before treatment, and the increase continued until the end of this study, that is, day 7 after treatment. Conclusion:ALA-PDT may exert anti-tumor effects by recruiting immune cells, especially neutrophils and macrophages.
ABSTRACT
Objective:To observe the influence of Chang'an Ⅰ prescription drug-containing serum on IgE-mediated RBL-2H3 cell degranulation model, and explore the mechanism of Chang'an Ⅰ prescription in inhibiting RBL-2H3 activation degranulation and releasing inflammatory mediators with v-yes-1 Yanaguchi sarcoma viral related oncogene homolog (Lyn)/spleen tyrosine protein kinase (Syk)/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signal pathway. Method:Preparation for Chang'an Ⅰ prescription serum. Animal group, SD male rats were randomly divided into Chang'an Ⅰ prescription serum high, medium, low dose, and blank control groups with 10 rats in each group. Dosage: 10 mL·kg-1 distilled water was given to blank control group, while Chang'an Ⅰ prescription serum high, medium and low dose groups were respectively given to the Chang'an Ⅰ prescription concentrated crude drug with concentration of 1.15,2.30,4.60 g·kg-1, respectively once a day for 7 days continuously and then blood was taken from aorta ventralis and centrifuged. Ketotifen as the positive control drug. Mast cells are counted with toluidine blue staining. Cellular release of β-aminohexose was detected by colorimetric method. Contents of MCT, TNF-α, MCP-1 and histamine were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits, Lyn/Syk/MAPK protein levels were detected by immunoblotting. Result:For cell activation and degranulation, compared with the blank control group, the model group had more cell degranulation (P<0.05), compared with model group, the cell degranulation rate of each dose group of Chang'an Ⅰ prescription decreased (P<0.05). The release rate of β-hexosamine in each dose group of Chang'an Ⅰ prescription decreased significantly (P<0.01). For the release of active mediators, compared with the blank control group, the contents of histamine, MCT, TNF-α and MCP-1 all increased in the model group (P<0.01), compared with the model group, the contents in each dose group of Chang'an Ⅰ prescription all decreased significantly (P<0.01). Compared with the normal group, the phosphorylation levels of Lyn and Syk, extracellular regulatory protein kinase 1/2(ERK1/2), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and mitogen-activated protein kinase p38 increased in the model group (P<0.05). Compared with the model group, the Lyn, Syk and ERK1/2, JNK and p38 protein phosphorylation levels reduced in Chang'an Ⅰ prescription group (P<0.05). Conclusion:Chang'an Ⅰ prescription drug-containing serum down-regulates the phosphorylation levels of proteins Lyn, Syk, and ERK1/2, JNK, and p38, inhibits RBL-2H3 cell activation and degranulation, reduces the release of cytokines and chemokines, such as histamine, MCT, TNF-α and MCP-1, it may be one of its mechanisms for treating IBS-D visceral hypersensitivity.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the effect of Chang'an II Decoction ( II ))-containing serum on intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction in rats.@*METHODS@#Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α-induced injury of Caco-2 monolayers were established as an inflammatory model of human intestinal epithelium. Caco-2 monolayers were treated with blank serum and Chang'an II Decoction-containing serum that obtained from the rats which were treated with distilled water and Chang'an II Decoction intragastrically at doses of 0.49, 0.98, 1.96 g/(kg·d) for 1 week, respectively. After preparation of containing serum, cells were divided into the normal group, the model group, the Chang'an II-H, M, and L groups (treated with 30 ng/mL TNF-α and medium plus 10% high, middle-, and low-doses Chang'an II serum, respectively). Epithelial barrier function was assessed by transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) and permeability of fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled dextran. Transmission electron microscopy was used to observe the ultrastructure of tight junctions (TJs). Immunofluorescence of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), claudin-1 and nuclear transcription factor-kappa p65 (NF-κ Bp65) were measured to determine the protein distribution. The mRNA expression of myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) was measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction. The expression levels of MLCK, myosin light chain (MLC) and p-MLC were determined by Western blot.@*RESULTS@#Chang'an II Decoction-containing serum significantly attenuated the TER and paracellular permeability induced by TNF-α. It alleviated TNF-α-induced morphological alterations in TJ proteins. The increases in MLCK mRNA and MLCK, MLC and p-MLC protein expressions induced by TNF-α were significantly inhibited in the Chang'an II-H group. Additionally, Chang'an II Decoction significantly attenuated translocation of NF-κ Bp65 into the nucleus.@*CONCLUSION@#High-dose Chang'an II-containing serum attenuates TNF-α-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction. The underlying mechanism may be involved in inhibiting the MLCK-MLC phosphorylation signaling pathway mediated by NF-κ Bp65.
ABSTRACT
Objective To evaluate the application of the standard manual labeling on identification of retinopathy of prematurity ( ROP) images in deep learning. Methods According to the International Classification of ROP,different periods of ROP were classified into stage disease and plus disease in this study. From Joint Shantou International Eye Center from August 2009 to July 2018, a total of 1464 labeled fundus retinal photographs were divided randomly by stratified sampling into 3 groups:stage disease group(subgroup 1:173,subgroup 2:117) was used to train for labeling stage disease,whereas plus disease group(subgroup 1:163,subgroup 2:116) was used to train for labeling plus disease,and consistent labels group consisted of 895 consistent labeled images on both disease. Graders consisted of senior experts,3 senior ophthalmologists and 2 interns,and received training for classification and labeling on ROP fundus images. The results were compared among the doctors and doctors with deep learning,and the agreement between non-experts doctors and the reference standards, and deep learning and the reference standards were tested. Results After the first training,the overall agreement rate of the senior ophthalmologist group and the intern group were lower than 90% for both two disease labeling. After two to three times of training, in image of consistent labels group,overall agreement rates of senior ophthalmologists and intern doctor's were 98. 99% ( Kappa=0. 979),99. 22% (Kappa=0. 984) on stage disease,and 97. 43% (Kappa=0. 914),98. 11% (Kappa=0. 935) on plus disease,respectively. The agreement on stage disease using deep learning based on human-machine combination was 94. 08%,Kappa value was 0. 880,which achieved good degree. Conclusions Standardized manual labeling can improve the intelligentization of deep learning on identification of ROP images,and be considered as an innovative method of homogenization and standardized training for doctors in ophthalmology.
ABSTRACT
Objective@#To explore the effect of 18β-sodium glycyrrhetinic acid on thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) in nasal mucosa of allergic rhinitis (AR) rats.@*Methods@#One hundred Wistar rats,half male and half female,were randomly divided into 5 groups by random number table method: control group, AR model group,budesonide group,18β-sodium glycyrrhetinic acid at dose of 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg groups, with 20 rats in each group. AR animal models were established by ovalbumin (OVA) sensitization in the other four experimental groups. After successful modeling, budesonide and 18β-sodium glycyrrhetinic acid were given in each group,and the detection time points were 2 weeks and 4 weeks. The distribution of TSLP in rat nasal mucosa was detected by immunohistochemistry,and the expression of TSLP in rat nasal mucosa was determined by Western blot at the protein level. The expression of TSLP-mRNA in rat nasal mucosa was detected and compared by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (RT-PCR) at mRNA level. The concentrations of IL-4 and OVA-sIgE in rat serum were measured and compared by ELISA. One-way analysis of variance and the least significant difference method were used for the comparison among groups, LSD t test was used for the comparison between the two groups,and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05).@*Results@#Immunohistochemistry confirmed existence of TSLP in rat nasal mucosa, especially in epithelial cells,endothelial cells and epithelial cilia. Western blot and RT-PCR suggested that the expression of TSLP and TSLP-mRNA in nasal mucosa of AR model group was significantly higher than that of control group (2 weeks TSLP: 1.795 9±0.131 4 vs 0.990 5±0.164 2, 4 weeks TSLP: 1.809 7±0.253 4 vs 0.870 3±0.124 4; 2 weeks TSLP-mRNA:4.582 9±0.697 7 vs 1.108 7±0.081 1, 4 weeks TSLP-mRNA:4.814 4±0.662 8 vs 1.001 0±0.155 3; all P<0.05). After 2 weeks and 4 weeks of drug intervention,the expression of TSLP and TSLP-mRNA was inhibited in nasal mucosa of budesonide group,18β-sodium sodium glycyrrhetinic acid at dose of 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg group,which was significantly different from that of AR model group (2 weeks TSLP: (0.897 8±0.081 8)/(1.072 1±0.113 6)/(1.396 6±0.133 9) vs 1.795 9±0.131 4; 4 weeks TSLP: (1.191 0±0.161 3)/(1.141 0±0.152 3)/(1.200 5±0.189 6) vs 1.809 7±0.253 4; 2 weeks TSLP-mRNA: (1.175 6±0.100 9)/(1.254 4±0.078 2)/(2.037 2±0.559 2) vs 4.582 9±0.697 7; 4 weeks TSLP-mRNA: (1.158 3±0.104 3)/(1.224 0±0.034 0)/(1.275 2±0.099 6) vs 4.814 4±0.662 8; all P<0.05), and not significantly different from control group. With the inhibition of TSLP, the concentrations of IL-4 and OVA-sIgE in rat serum were also decreased.@*Conclusion@#18β-sodium glycyrrhetinic acid has obvious inhibitory effect on TSLP in nasal mucosa of AR rats, which can control Th2 type immune inflammatory reaction.
ABSTRACT
Objective:To observe the anti-inflammatory effect of Dendrobii Huoshanense Herba. Method:Totally 60 Kunming mice were randomly divided into normal group, model group, high, middle and low-dose Dendrobii Huoshanense Herba groups (DHS-H, DHS-M, DHS-L, 4, 2, 1 g·kg-1) and dexamethasone acetate group (DXMS, 0.01 g·kg-1). The rats were intragastrically administered for 14 days. After the last administration for 1 h, a total of 20 μL of xylene was added to both sides of the right ear center of the mice to establish the ear swelling model. All of the mice were decapitated 1 h later, and the ear swelling inhibition rate of each group were calculated. Totally 36 healthy SD rats were divided into normal model, model group, DHS-H,DHS-M,DHS-L groups (2.8, 1.4, 0.7 g·kg-1) and DXMS acetate group. The rats were intragastrically administered for 7 days. One hour after the last intragastric administration, a foot swelling model was established through subcutaneous injection of 10%fresh egg white in the right hind limb toe of each group. The right hind paw circumference of each rat was measured at 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 h, and the paw swelling of the rats was calculated. Totally 60 SD rats were implanted subcutaneously with sterile dry cotton balls in the bilateral groin and grouped as above. All of the rats were intragastrically administered for 14 days since the next day. After the last administration, cotton balls were taken out, and the inhibition rate of granuloma was calculated. And the contents of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-2 (IL-2), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interferon-γ (IFN-γ) in the serum of each group were detected. Result:Compared with the normal group, the ear swelling rate, the foot swelling degree were significantly increased in the model group(PPPPPα, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, and IFN-γ in the model group were higher than those in the normal group (Pα, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, and IFN-γ in Dendrobii Huoshanense Herba group and positive drug group were decreased significantly (PPConclusion:Dendrobii Huoshanense Herba could effectively inhibit acute and chronic inflammatory reactions.
ABSTRACT
The clinical predictive factors for malignant testicular histology remain unclear because of the low prevalence. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate predictors of malignant histology for testicular masses and decide more testis-sparing surgeries before surgery. This retrospective study enrolled 325 consecutive testicular mass patients who underwent radical orchiectomy (310/325) or testicular preserving surgery (15/325) from January 2001 to June 2016. The clinicopathological factors, including tumor diameter, cryptorchidism history, ultrasound findings, serum alpha-fetoprotein, and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) levels, were collected retrospectively for statistical analysis. A predictive nomogram was also generated to evaluate the quantitative probability. Among all patients, 247 (76.0%) were diagnosed with a malignant testicular tumor and 78 (24.0%) with benign histology. Larger tumor diameter (per cm increased, hazard ratio [HR] = 1.284, P = 0.036), lower ultrasound echo (HR = 3.191, P = 0.001), higher ultrasound blood flow (HR = 3.320, P < 0.001), and abnormal blood HCG (HR = 10.550, P < 0.001) were significant predictive factors for malignant disease in all testicular mass patients. The nomogram generated was well calibrated for all predictions of malignant probability, and the accuracy of the model nomogram measured by Harrell's C statistic (C-index) was 0.92. According to our data, the proportion of patients who underwent radical orchiectomy for benign tumors (24.0%) was much larger than generally believed (10.0%). Our results indicated that the diameter, ultrasonic echo, ultrasonic blood flow, and serum HCG levels could predict the malignancy in testicular mass patients.
Subject(s)
Adolescent , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Child , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Young Adult , Biomarkers, Tumor/blood , Chorionic Gonadotropin/blood , Orchiectomy , Prognosis , Retrospective Studies , Testicular Neoplasms/surgery , Testis/pathology , Tumor Burden , Ultrasonography , alpha-Fetoproteins/metabolismABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the associations between CYP2A6 polymorphisms and treatment outcomes of adjuvant S-1 in postoperative gastric cancer patients.Methods 188 patients after D2 radical resection received S-1 based adjuvant chemotherapy.PBMC cell specimen were collected for the genotyping of genetic variation and CYP2A6 gene mRNA expression.Univariate analysis of genotypes and prognosis was carried out by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis,and multivariate analysis were adjusted by COX regression analysis.Results The polymorphisms included in this study were collected in the NCBI database with the minor allele frequency > 10% in Chinese population (rs8192725,rs8192720 and rs28399433),with rs8192725 only of clinical significance.The prevalence of rs8192725 in CYP2A6 were CC genotype 131 cases (69.7%),CT genotype 51 cases (27.1%),TT genotype 6 cases (3.2%),minor allele frequency of rs8192725 was 0.17.The 3 year disease-free survival (DFS) rate in patients with CT/TT genotype and CC genotype were 61.5% and 72.5%,respectively (x2 =8.233,P =0.004).The 3 year overall survival rate of the two genotypes were 73.7% and 79.4% (x2 =4.863,P =0.021).CT/TT genotypes were an independent factor for DFS (OR =1.81,P =0.012).The expression of CYP2A6 in PBMC of the patients with CT/TT genotypes were significantly lower than those of the CC genotype patients (P < 0.001).Conclusions After D2 gastric cancer patients treated by S-1,the polymorphism rs8192725 of CYP2A6 may effect the clinical outcomes of adjuvant chemotherapy S-1 treatment through influencing the mRNA expression of CYP2A6.