ABSTRACT
Objective:To evaluate the accuracy of 3D ultrasound calibration in image guided radiotherapy for prostate cancer by taking cone beam CT calibration as the gold standard, and to analyze the risk factors of accuracy.Methods:From December 2018 to December 2021, 51 patients with prostate cancer from the Department of Radiation Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University were selected as the study subjects. They received cone beam CT calibration based on bone and 3D ultrasound calibration based on soft tissue before fraction volumetric modulated arc therapy treatment three times a week. Taking cone beam CT calibration data as the gold standard, the Bland-Altman method was used to analyze the consistency of 3D ultrasound calibration data with the former. Taking 3 mm as the allowable threshold of accuracy, the calibration accuracy of 3D ultrasound relative to cone beam CT was evaluated. Logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors affecting the accuracy of 3D ultrasound calibration.Results:A total of 765 pairs of cone beam CT and 3D ultrasound calibration data were obtained from 51 patients in left-right, superior-inferior and anterior-posterior directions. The calibration data of 3D ultrasound and cone beam CT were (1.39±0.11) and (1.13±0.07) mm in the left-right direction, (1.98±0.20) and (1.61±0.12) mm in the superior-inferior direction, (2.68±0.48) and (1.78±0.27) mm in the anterior-posterior direction, respectively, with statistically significant differences ( t=-6.42, P<0.001; t=-7.07, P<0.001; t=-7.34, P<0.001). The analysis results of Bland-Altman showed that the consistency of calibration data of the two methods were acceptable in three directions. The number of pairs of 3D ultrasound relative to cone beam CT calibration data difference <3 mm in the three directions were 676 (88.37%) on the left-right direction, 604 (78.95%) on the superior-inferior direction, and 577 (75.42%) on the anterior-posterior direction. The factors with statistically significant differences in the left-right direction included age ( χ2=18.27, P<0.001), prostate volume ( χ2=14.55, P<0.001), Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) ( χ2=8.01, P=0.005) and field range ( χ2=11.30, P<0.001). Age ( OR=2.02, 95% CI: 1.90-3.39, P=0.010) and the field range ( OR=1.45, 95% CI: 1.18-2.55, P=0.020) were the independent risk factors affecting the accuracy of 3D ultrasound calibration in the left-right direction. The factors with statistically significant differences in the superior-inferior direction included age ( χ2=80.68, P<0.001), body mass index ( χ2=35.89, P<0.001) and field range ( χ2=40.39, P<0.001). Age ( OR=1.49, 95% CI: 1.15-2.09, P=0.021) and the field range ( OR=1.10, 95% CI: 1.01-1.90, P=0.034) were the independent risk factors affecting the accuracy of 3D ultrasound calibration in the superior-inferior direction. The factors with statistically significant differences in the anterior-posterior direction included age ( χ2=46.07, P<0.001), CCI ( χ2=47.97, P<0.001) and field range ( χ2=11.86, P=0.001). Age ( OR=1.91, 95% CI: 1.22-3.45, P=0.015) and the field range ( OR=2.89, 95% CI: 1.45-3.90, P=0.001) were the independent risk factors affecting the accuracy of 3D ultrasound calibration in the anterior-posterior direction. Conclusion:The consistency and accuracy of the calibration results of 3D ultrasound relative to cone beam CT are acceptable. It is necessary to consider the patient's age and field range to reduce the impact on accuracy before conducting 3D ultrasound calibration.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of salidroside (Sal) on myocardial fibrosis and pyroptosis and its potential mechanism. METHODS The mice were randomly divided into control group, model group and Sal low-dose, medium-dose and high-dose groups, with 10 mice in each group. Except for the control group, the mice in other groups were injected subcutaneously with isoproterenol 5 mg/(kg·d)to prepare the myocardial fibrosis model. Since modeling, mice in the Sal low-dose, medium-dose and high-dose groups were given 10, 30 and 50 mg/kg of Sal by intragastric administration every day; control group and model group were given 10 mL/kg of normal saline by intragastric administration every day, for 14 consecutive days. After the last medication, the mice were sacrificed; hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to observe pathological change of myocardial tissue and calculate the diameter of myocardial cell; Masson and Sirius Red staining were used to observe the degree of myocardial fibrosis in mice and calculate the collagen volume fraction (CVF); quantitative real-time PCR was performed to detect the mRNA expressions of collagen type Ⅰ (Col Ⅰ), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), NOD-like receptor pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3), caspase-1 andgasdermin D (GSDMD) in myocardial tissues. The total protein expressions of Col Ⅰ, α-SMA, TLR4, NLRP3,caspase-1 and GSDMD in myocardial tissues and protein-positive cell score were measured by Western blot assay and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Compared with control group, the myocardial cells in the model group were enlarged, the arrangement of myocardial fibers was disordered, the matrix metabolism was significantly increased, the CVF in myocardial tissue was significantly increased, and the mRNA and protein expression levels of Col Ⅰ, α-SMA, TLR4, NLRP3, caspase-1 and GSDMD were elevated and protein-positive cell score was increased significantly (P<0.01). Compared with model group, the myocardial cell morphology was clearer, myocardial fibrosis was alleviated, and the levels of the above indicators in myocardial tissue of Sal medium-dose and high-dose groups had been reversed to varying degrees, especially in Sal high-dose group(P<0.05 or P<0.01). In addition, the Sal low-dose group also reversed some fibrosis and pyroptosis-related indicators to some extent. CONCLUSIONS Sal can significantly prevent the occurrence and development of myocardial fibrosis, and the mechanism of action may be related to the inhibition of TLR4-mediated pyroptosis pathway in myocardial tissue.
ABSTRACT
Objective:To evaluate the efficacy of high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) oxygen therapy in optimizing painless transesophageal echocardiography in elderly patients.Methods:Sixty American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status classification Ⅱ patients, regardless of gender, aged 60-75 yr, with body mass index of 18.5-23.9 kg/m 2, were randomized into 2 groups ( n=30 each) by a random number table method: group HFNC and conventional ventilation group (group C). Pure oxygen 10 L/min was inhaled for 3 min preoxygenation using the HFNC device in group HFNC. Group C inhaled pure oxygen at 6 L/min for 3 min preoxygenation via a nasal cannula. Sufentanil 0.1 μg/kg and remazolam 0.25-0.30 mg/kg were intravenously injected in turn. Group HFNC was connected to a high-flow humidification oxygen therapy device and inhaled pure oxygen at 60 L/min (37℃, FiO 2 100%). The flow rate of pure oxygen was maintained at 6 L/min (FiO 2 100 %) in group C. The patients were placed in left lateral decubitus position, esophageal ultrasound was performed after the eyelash reflex disappeared, and remazolam 0.1 mg/kg was intravenously injected intermittently when bucking and body movement were induced by operation stimulation. The occurrence of hypoxia-related adverse events, mandibular intervention and ventilation-related adverse events was observed during examination. The operation time, time of emergence from anesthesia and consumption of remazolam were recorded. Results:Compared with group C, the incidence of severe hypoxia and rate of mandibular intervention were significantly decreased (7%/0 and 53%/17%, P<0.05), the lowest intraoperative SpO 2 was increased ( P<0.05), and no significant change was found in the operation time, time of emergence from anesthesia and consumption of remazolam in group HFNC ( P>0.05). No ventilation-related adverse events occurred in both groups. Conclusions:HFNC can markedly optimize the ventilation management of elderly patients undergoing painless transesophageal echocardiography.
ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of well-differentiated rectal neuroendocrine tumor(RNET).Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted using the clinical data from 83 patients with well-differentiated RNET from August 2017 to December 2021,including clinical manifestations,endoscopy,endoscopic treatment,postoperative complications,postoperative pathology,follow-up and prognosis.Pathological results according to the 2019 World Health Organization(WHO)Classification of digestive system tumors,83 patients were divided into G1 stage group(72 cases)and G2 stage group(11 cases);Based on the number of tumors in the patient,83 patients were divided into two groups:single RNET group(77 cases)and multiple RNET group(6 cases),the expressions of chromogranin A(CgA),synapsin(Syn)and CD56 were compared among different groups.Results Based on pathological findings in the group,G1 stage group CgA positive rate was significantly higher than that of G2 stage group,the difference was statistically significant(χ2 = 4.23,P = 0.040);Based on the number of tumors,multiple RNET group CgA positive rate was significantly higher than that of single RNET group,the difference was statistically significant(χ2 = 5.74,P = 0.017).It was no significant difference in Syn and CD56 between the two groups(P>0.050).Conclusion Well-differentiated RNET has no specific clinical manifestations.It is mostly isolated in G1 stage and single RNET.ESD is safe and has a good prognosis,the positive rate of CgA is higher in G1 stage patients,and the positive rate of CgA is higher in patients with multiple RNET.
ABSTRACT
Objective@#To investigate the clinical characteristics, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of therapy-related myeloid neoplasms (t-MNs) after successful treatment for acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) .@*Methods@#Clinical data of 4 patients, diagnosed as t-MNs secondary to APL at Hematology Hospital of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences from October 2012 to January 2019, were collected retrospectively. T-MNs related literature was reviewed.@*Results@#The 4 cases were all females, with the median age 42 (range 40-53) years old at the diagnosis of APL. Regarding the induction and consolidation regimens, 3 patients received all-trans retinoid acid (ATRA) and arsenic trioxide (ATO) combined with anthracycline/anthraquinone and/or cytosine. One patient only received ATRA and other auxiliary drugs. Alkylating agents were not administrated. The 4 patients developed t-MNs 40 to 43 months after complete remission (CR) of APL, including 1 case of therapy-related myelodysplastic syndrome (t-MDS) and 3 cases of acute myeloid leukemia (t-AML) . The PML-RARα fusion genes were all negative when t-MNs developed. The three patients with t-AML were treated with 3 to 4 re-induction regimens, one of whom underwent allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) after complete remission (CR) . One patient with t-MDS received hypomethylating agents. After a median follow-up of 54.5 (48-62) months, 2 patients with t-AML died, the median overall survival after t-MN was 12 (5-18) months. From 1989 to 2018, a total of 63 t-MN cases were reported in the literature. Therefore, 67 cases were analyzed when four patients in our center were added, including 27 males and 40 females with median age 52.5 (15-76) years. The median latency was 39 (12-126) months and the median overall survival after diagnosis of t-MN was 10 (1-39) months.@*Conclusions@#Although rare, t-MNs may occur after successful control of APL. There are no existing guidelines for prevention and treatment of t-MNs, which have very poor prognosis. If cytopenia or other abnormalities of peripheral blood cells develop after 3 years of APL, t-MNs should be considered as a differential diagnosis.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: Patients with chronic neuropathic pain (CNP) have a higher incidence to develop depression. However, its pathogenesis has not yet been fully elucidated. Here we aimed to investigate the role of inflammatory cytokines in CNP-related anhedonia, which is a core symptom of depression, and to explore the effects of ketamine and parecoxib on pain and anhedonia. METHODS: A rat model of spared nerve injury (SNI) was constructed to mimic CNP. Hierarchical cluster analysis of sucrose preference test (SPT) was applied to classify the SNI rats into anhedonia susceptible and unsusceptible. Inflammatory cytokines in medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of brain, serum and L2–5 spinal cord were measured. Moreover, effects of ketamine or parecoxib on mechanical withdrawal test (MWT) and SPT in anhedonia susceptible rats were detected. RESULTS: Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α was increased in mPFC, serum and and spinal cord of anhedonia susceptible rats. Furthermore, anhedonia susceptible and unsusceptible rats both increased the interleukin (IL)-1β level in mPFC, serum and spinal cord. IL-6 was altered in serum and spinal cord, but not in mPFC. IL-10 was significantly altered in mPFC and serum, but not in spinal cord. Additionally, ketamine treatment significantly attenuated the decreased results of MWT and SPT in anhedonia susceptible rats, and that parecoxib significantly improved the MWT score, but failed to alter the result of SPT. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that abnormalities in inflammatory cytokines confer susceptible to anhedonia in a rat model of SNI. Ketamine, a fast-acting antidepressant, has pharmacological benefits to alleviate pain and anhedonia symptoms.
Subject(s)
Animals , Humans , Rats , Anhedonia , Brain , Cytokines , Depression , Incidence , Interleukin-10 , Interleukin-6 , Interleukins , Ketamine , Models, Animal , Neuralgia , Neurogenic Inflammation , Prefrontal Cortex , Spinal Cord , Sucrose , Tumor Necrosis Factor-alphaABSTRACT
Objective To propose a new set of conformity indices ( CIs ) that may be useful for evaluating whether the prescribed doses to target volume and organs at risk ( OAR) in intensity-modulated radiotherapy ( IMRT ) or three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy ( 3DCRT ) plans meet clinical requirements. Methods A total of 30 patients' plans were randomly selected from the IMRT or 3DCRT plans for non-small cell lung cancer and analyzed with the newly defined CIs described in this article. The plans to be improved were selected according to the evaluating results, and two schemes were developed to improve these plans. Then, the differences in CI, Dmax , Dmin , and Dmean of the planning target volume ( PTV) , V5 and V20 of the normal lung, V30 and V40 of the heart, and Dmax of the spinal cord were investigated with the paired t-test. Results Among the 30 plans, the average volume covered by the prescribed isodose line ( VRI ) was 25% larger than the PTV, so the normal lung tissue with a volume approximately 25% of PTV was given the same dose as the target volume, and the volume covered by the prescribed isodose line in the target V ( C) R was only 75% of the volume VR. Ninety-five percent of the target volume received a full prescribed dose;only 5% of the target volume received less than the prescribed dose, but which was still within 90% of the prescribed dose. In the comparison between the original plans and the plans improved using the first scheme, CI2 , CI4 , CI5 , CI6 , and homogeneity index ( HI) were not significantly different ( P=0240-0780) , and CI1 and CI3 showed significant differences ( P=0002 and 0);Dmax , Dmin , and Dmean of the PTV, V5 and V20 of the normal lung, V30 and V40 of the heart, and Dmax of the spinal cord were not significantly different ( P=0211-0964) . In the comparison between the original plans and the plans improved using the second scheme, CI2 , CI4 , and CI5 were not significantly different ( P=0308, 0308, and 0106 ) , CI1 , CI3 , CI6 , and HI showed significant differences ( P= 0001-0014);Dmax , Dmin , and Dmean of the PTV, V5 and V20 of the normal lung, and Dmax of the spinal cord showed significant differences ( P=0008-0036 ) , and V30 and V40 of the heart were not significantly different ( P=0083 and 0080) . Conclusions The new set of CIs proposed in this paper may be a good tool for evaluating the conformity of the target and the prescribed dose to OAR and thus developing better individualized treatment plans.
ABSTRACT
Objective To propose a new set of conformity indices ( CIs ) that may be useful for evaluating whether the prescribed doses to target volume and organs at risk ( OAR) in intensity-modulated radiotherapy ( IMRT ) or three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy ( 3DCRT ) plans meet clinical requirements. Methods A total of 30 patients' plans were randomly selected from the IMRT or 3DCRT plans for non-small cell lung cancer and analyzed with the newly defined CIs described in this article. The plans to be improved were selected according to the evaluating results, and two schemes were developed to improve these plans. Then, the differences in CI, Dmax , Dmin , and Dmean of the planning target volume ( PTV) , V5 and V20 of the normal lung, V30 and V40 of the heart, and Dmax of the spinal cord were investigated with the paired t-test. Results Among the 30 plans, the average volume covered by the prescribed isodose line ( VRI ) was 25% larger than the PTV, so the normal lung tissue with a volume approximately 25% of PTV was given the same dose as the target volume, and the volume covered by the prescribed isodose line in the target V ( C) R was only 75% of the volume VR. Ninety-five percent of the target volume received a full prescribed dose;only 5% of the target volume received less than the prescribed dose, but which was still within 90% of the prescribed dose. In the comparison between the original plans and the plans improved using the first scheme, CI2 , CI4 , CI5 , CI6 , and homogeneity index ( HI) were not significantly different ( P=0240-0780) , and CI1 and CI3 showed significant differences ( P=0002 and 0);Dmax , Dmin , and Dmean of the PTV, V5 and V20 of the normal lung, V30 and V40 of the heart, and Dmax of the spinal cord were not significantly different ( P=0211-0964) . In the comparison between the original plans and the plans improved using the second scheme, CI2 , CI4 , and CI5 were not significantly different ( P=0308, 0308, and 0106 ) , CI1 , CI3 , CI6 , and HI showed significant differences ( P= 0001-0014);Dmax , Dmin , and Dmean of the PTV, V5 and V20 of the normal lung, and Dmax of the spinal cord showed significant differences ( P=0008-0036 ) , and V30 and V40 of the heart were not significantly different ( P=0083 and 0080) . Conclusions The new set of CIs proposed in this paper may be a good tool for evaluating the conformity of the target and the prescribed dose to OAR and thus developing better individualized treatment plans.
ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the clinical characteristics of multiple drug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii infection in respiratory elderly patients.Methods A total of 102 elderly patients infected with multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii were enrolled in our hospital from January 2014 to December 2015.At the same time,no multiple drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii infection elderly patients was selected as a control group.The gender,age,antimicrobial use,white blood cell count,mechanical ventilation time and other differences between the two groups of elderly patients were compared.Results There were significant differences in the days of hospitalization [(18.7±7.5) d vs.(10.0±2.7)d],the time of application of invasive ventilator[(24.6±10.3) d vs.(11.6±6.9)d] and the time of application of antimicrobial agents[(26.2±13.1) d vs.(8.0±2.6)d] (t=19.463、15.436、26.905,all P< 0.05).There was no significant difference in immunosuppressant use,white blood cell count,serum protein level and APACHEⅡ score (all P>0.05).Conclusions Reasonable scientific application of antimicrobial agents,reducing invasive mechanical ventilation time and improving patient immunity can help to reduce the risk of respiratory infection in elderly patients with multiple drug resistance to Acinetobacter baumannii.
ABSTRACT
Objective To evaluate the role of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-dependent autophagic signaling pathway in ketamine-induced reduction of diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) in rats.Methods Sixty male Wistar rats,aged 3 months,weighing 200-250 g,were equally randomized into 5 groups using a random number table:control group (C group),normal saline group (NS group),ketamine group (K group),ketamine + Compound C group (KC group),and ketamine + 3-methyladenine (3-MA) group (KM group).DNP model was established by intraperitoneal injection of streptozocin (STZ)65 mg/kg in anesthetized rats.Four weeks later,the equal volume of normal saline,ketamine 10 mg/kg,ketamine 10 mg/kg + Compound C1 mg/kg,and ketamine + 3-MA 2 μl were injected intraperitoneally once a day for 7 consecutive days in NS,K,KC and KM groups,respectively.The mechanical paw withdrawal threshold (MWT) was measured on 8th day.The rats were then sacrificed,and the lunbar segment (L1-5) of the spinal cord was removed for determination of the expression of AMPKαt,Beclin-1,microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain (LC) 3B (by Western blot) and dendritic spine density in the dorsal root ganglia.Results Compared with group C,the MWT,expression of AMPKα,Beclin-1,and LC3B,and dendritic spine density were significantly decreased in group NS (P<0.05).Compared with group NS,the MWT,expression of AMPKαt,Beclin-1,and LC3B,and dendritic spine density were significantly increased in group K (P<0.05).Compared with group K,the MWT,expression of AMPKα,Beclin-1,and LC3B,and dendritic spine density were significantly decreased in KC and KM groups (P<0.05).Conclusion Activation of AMPK-dependent autophagic pathway is involved in ketamine-induced reduction of DNP in rats.
ABSTRACT
Objective Research has indicated that hydrogen sulfide(H2S) can regulate the function of N-methyl-D-aspartate re-ceptors(NMDARs) in the brain, but its effect on brain resuscitation requires further investigation.The study was to speculate the effect of H2 S on brain resuscitation as well as the underlying mechanism of neuroresuscitation by investigating the effects of hydrogen sulfide and hypo-thermia on the expression of NR2A, NR2B and phospho-cAMP response element binding protein (p-CREB) of NMDARs in the hippocampus after global cerebral ischemia following by reperfusion. Methods 100 male SD rats were randomly divided into five groups(n=20):sham operation group, model group, mild hypothermia group, NaHS group, NaHS combined mild hypothermia group.Pulsinelli-Brierley four-ves-sel occlusion method was induced to build the injury rat model by reperfusion after global cerebral ischemia .After 15 minutes'ischemia, im-mediate injection of 14μmol/kg NaHS was performed intraperitoneally on NaHS group and NaHS combined mild hypothermia group , while skin cooling(rectal temperature=32-33℃) was done on mild hypothermia group and NaHS combined mild hypothermia group .6 hours late,r hip-pocampus were extracted from rat heads.Respectively, spectrophotometer was applied to measure the content of H2S, Western blot for the expres-sions of NR2 A,NR2 B and pC-REB, and RTP-CR for mRNA level of brain derived neurotrophic (BDNF). HE staining was also performed on brain tissues 72hours after reperfusion on 4 rats from each group to evaluate the pathological changes of pyramidal neurons in CA1 region. R esul ts The content of H 2 S increased in each of the four groups after ischemia-reperfusion compared with sham operation group ( 15.2 ±2.0 nmol/g) (P0.05).The gray values of NR2A and NR2B in each group increased compared with sham operation group(P1 in NaHS group and NaHS combined mild hy-pothermia group.Compared with the expression of p-CREB(0.55 ±0.06) in model group, there were significant increases in mild hypother-mia group(0.99 ±0.15), NaHS group(1.05 ±0.12), NaHS combined mild hypothermia group(1.02 ±0.15)(P<0.05).Compared with the expression of BNDF mRNA(0.83 ±0.12) in model group, there were significant increases in mild hypothermia group (1.11 ±0.13), NaHS group(1.27 ±0.16), NaHS combined mild hypothermia group(1.35 ±0.16)(P<0.05).In comparison to model group, there were signifi-cant alleviation in the injury of pyramidal neurons in hippocampal CA1 region in mild hypothermia group, NaHS group, NaHS combined mild hypothermia group, with the best effect in NaHS combined mild hypothermia group . Conclusion Hydrogen sulfide combined mild hypo-thermia can selectively activate synaptic NMDA receptors and trigger the prosurvival CREB signaling pathway to exert brain resuscitation .
ABSTRACT
[Abstract ] Objective The pathogenesis underlying cognitive dysfunction has yet to be fully elucidated.The article was to investigate the effects of memantine on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced spatial learning and memory impairment in C57BL/6J mice. Methods 36 male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into 3 groups:control group (C group), lipopolysaccharide group (L group) and memantine group (M group) (n=12).Mice in C, L and M groups were intraperitoneally injected with the same volume of saline, LPS and LPS plus memantine re-spectively for 7 consecutive days.On the 8th day, mice were tested in the Morris water maze, in which the latency to the platform and the propor-tion of time spent in the target quadrant were recorded .Then the mice were sacrificed and the hippocampi were harvested for the determination of expression levels of Amyloid-β(Aβ), glycogen synthase kinase-3β(GSK-3β) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Results Com-pared with C group, L group significantly prolongated the latency to the platform (71.01 ±13.21 vs 50.56 ±9.89, P<0.05), decreased the propor-tion of time spent in the target quadrant (42.58 ±7.85 vs 63.74 ±12.43, P<0.05) and increased the levels of hippocampal Aβand GSK-3β(1.75 ±0.43 vs 1.27 ±0.23, 184.0 ±18.6 vs 100.0 ±12.1, P<0.05), (75.0 ±13.5 vs 100.0 ±10.3, P<0.05), while mTOR levels decreased significantly (97.0 ±14.3 vs 75.0 ±13.5, P<0.05).Compared with L group, M group significantly prolongated the latency to the platform (61.45 ±7.65 vs 71.01 ±13.21, P<0.05), decreased the proportion of time spent in the target quadrant shortened (58.25 ±9.02 vs 42.58 ±7.85, P<0.05) and increased the expression of hippocampal Aβ(1.35 ±0.28 vs 1.75 ±0.43,92.4 ±10.8 vs 184.0 ±18.6, P <0.05). Conclusion Memantine contributes to the improvement of LPS-induced spatial learning and memory impairment, which is probably related to the changes of the expression of GSK-3βand mTOR in hippocampus.
ABSTRACT
Objective To evaluate the effects of sirolimus on scopolamine-induced cognitive dysfunction in rats.Methods Thirty male Wistar rats,aged 3 months,weighing 200-250 g,were equally randomized into 3 groups:normal saline group (NS group),scopolamine group (SC group) and scopolamine + sirolimus group (SS group).Normal saline,scopolamine 0.8 mg/kg and sirolimus 3.5 mg/kg + scopolamine 0.8 mg/kg were injected intraperitoneally in groups NS,SC and SS,respectively,and the injection was continued for 14 consecutive days.The cognitive function was assessed by Morris water maze test on 15th day.After behavior test,the rats were sacrificed and the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus were harvested for determination of amyloid β protein (Aβ) and Tau protein expression.Results Compared with NS group,the escape latency was significantly prolonged,the ratio of time spent in the target quadrant was decreased,Aβ expression in prefrontal cortex and hippocampus was upregulated and Tau protein expression in prefrontal cortex and hippocampus was down-regulated in group SC (P <0.05 or 0.01).Compared with SC group,the escape latency was significantly shortened,the ratio of time spent in the target quadrant was increased,Aβ expression in prefrontal cortex and hippocampus was down-regulated and Tau protein expression in prefrontal cortex and hippocampus was up-regulated in group SS (P < 0.05 or 0.01).Conclusion Sirolimus can significantly improve scopolamine-induced cognitive dysfunction in rats and the changes in the expression of Aβ and Tau protein in prefrontal cortex and hippocampus may be involved in the mechanism.
ABSTRACT
In order to evaluate the calculation precision of the pencil beam (PB) algorithm and convolution-superposition(CS) algorithm for the situation with air cavity and small fields, we built a water phantom with an air cavity slab, in which the depth dose (DD) and off-axis ratio (OAR) for field 1cm x 1cm to field 7cm x 7cm were calculated by PB algorithms, CS algorithms and Monte Carlo (MC) simulation. The evaluation of algorithms by MC simulation was achieved by comparisons of DD with the spread penumbras of OAR curve self-defined as the width between isodose lines of 10% and 90%. It was shown that PB algorithm and CS algorithm both overestimated the DD but the degree overestimated by PB algorithm was more serious. The CS algorithm showed a better agreement with the MC simulation for the OARs, which spread to both laterals, while that was not predicted accurately by PB algorithm. It was indicated that PB algorithm and CS algorithm do not have high calculation precision whereas CS algorithms is relatively better for the situation with air cavity and small fields.
Subject(s)
Algorithms , Body Burden , Computer Simulation , Nasal Cavity , Diagnostic Imaging , Nasopharyngeal Neoplasms , Radiotherapy , Nose Neoplasms , Radiotherapy , Photons , Radiography , Radiometry , Methods , Radiotherapy Dosage , Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted , Methods , Sensitivity and SpecificityABSTRACT
Objective To detect eight kinds of clinical common pathogenic bacteria by DNA microarray.Methods Eight kinds of common pathogenic bacteria,including Staphylococcus aureus,Pseudomonas aeruginosa,Klebsiella pneumoniae,Escherichia coli,Proteus mirabilis,Enterobacter aerogenes,Pseudomonas fluorescens,Shigella sonnei were collected.Universal primers were designed to amplify 16S rRNA gene fragment from the genomic DNA of the eight bacteria,and probes were designed in the highly variable regions.DNA microarray detection system was established and used for detection of colleted bacteria.A total of 50 samples were collected from the Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University,including 6 blood samples,32 sputum samples,9 feces samples and 3 bronchoscope lavage samples.DNA were extracted and detected by the established DNA microarray system.Results The desired fragments were well amplified by the self-designed universal primers.The selected probes had good detection results according to repeated detection.Of the 50 samples detected,pathgenic bacteria were accurately detected in 47 samples.Other three samples were not detected as those bacteria were not included in the chip.By optimizing the detection process,the results could be reported within 8 hours.Observation of probe signal attenuation indicated that even attenuated after 60 days,but the attenuation did not affect the results.Conclusion A microarray system was established for detection of clinical common bacteria accurately and quickly,which provided foundation for its clinical application.
ABSTRACT
Objective To develop a gene microarray system for detection of clinical common pathogenic fungi.MethodsThere were 8 clinical common fungi chosen as the subjects including Candida albicans,Candida glabrata,Candida tropicalis,Candida parapsilokis,Candida pseudotropicalis,Aspergillus terreus,Aspergillus flavus,Aspergillus oryzae,Aspergillus fumigatus.Universal primers,probes and specific probes for the PCR amplification and microarray preparation were designed in ITS region of the fungi genomic DNA.The PCR products amplified from those fungi's genome DNA were denatured and hybridized with the probes in gene microarray.The rapid detection of fungi was based on the investigation on the fluorescent signal intensity in the chip.The detection results of gene microarray system were verified by true positive and negative clinical samples.Results There were totally 25 positive samples identified by clinical routine microbiological methods.The 10 samples identified as bacteria positive were determined as negative without fluorescent signal by the fungi gene microarray,while the 12 samples identified as fungi positive were determined as positive with certain fungus by the fungi gene microarray.And 3 artificial Candida krusei samples were detected as fungi positive,while they were failure to be identified as certain fungus.There was no fluorescent signal in positions of the 8 fungi specific probes,but there was fluorescent signal in the position of fungi universal probe.It indicated that there were fungi in the samples but it couldn't identify the species of the fungi,because the Candida krusei wasn't included in the detection fungi list of the fungi gene microarray.ConclusionsThe fungi gene microarray established by the study could detect the common fungi in clinic rapidly and accurately.This study lays technology foundation for clinical application of gene chip.
ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the effect of intrathecal (IT) transplantation of different quantities of neural stem cells (NSCs) on neuropathic pain (NP) in rats.Methods Eighty-four adult pathogen-free male SD rats weighing 150-180 g were randomly divided into 7 groups ( n = 12 each) : group sham operation (S group) , NP group, NP+ NSCs 103 , 104 , 105 , 106 , 107 groups (N1-5 groups) . NP was induced by partial transection of right sciatic nerve. NSCs were transplanted into subarachnoid space in N1-5 groups. Paw withdrawal threshold to mechanical stimulation (MWT) and paw withdrawal latency to nociceptive thermal stimuli (TWL) were measured at 1 day before (baseline) and 1, 3, 7, 14 and 21 days after operation. Brain derived neurotrophic factor ( BDNF) expression in spinal dorsal horn and dorsal root ganglia (DRG) was detected by immuno-histochemistry and RT-PCR on the 7th and 21st day after operation. Results Partial transection of the sciatic nerve gradually reduced MWT and TWL after operation starting from day 1 until day 7 and 14 as compared with the baseline in group NP. IT NSC transplantation significantly increased MWT and TWL and expression of BDNF in spinal dorsal horn and DRG in a dese-dependent manner at day 7 after operation in N1-5 groups as compared with group NP. There were no significant differences in MWT and TWL and BDNF expression among N3, N4 and N5 groups at day 21 after operation.Conclusion The proper quantity of transplanted NSCs which are able to ameliorate NP induced by partial transection of sciatic nerve in rats is 105 .
ABSTRACT
Objective To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of fractionated stereotactic body radiotherapy in treating patients with liver metastases. Methods From January 1997 to January 2007, 22 patients with liver metastases of total 33 lesions were treated with fractionated stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). All patients were confirmed as unresectable and resistant to chemotherapy. The most common primaries were breast cancer in 12 patients and colorectal cancer in 5. Fifteen patients had metastases in the liver alone and 7 had concurrent metastases in other sites. Eighteen patients received one course of SBRT, and 4 patients got two courses. The median total dose was 40 (range, 30 - 60) Gy in 3 (range, 2 -6) fractions. Results All patients were followed up. The median follow up was 13.9 months (range, 5.0 -36. 4 months). The median size of the irradiated lesions was 2. 0 cm (range 1.0 -4. 3 cm) and the target volume was 3. 68 cm~3 (range 0. 45 - 77. 29 cm~3). The 1- and 2-year local control rate, overall survival rate and progression-free survival rate were 100% and 90%, 73% and 49%, 94% and 28%, respectively. No grade 3/4 SBRT related toxicities occurred. Conclusions SBRT, with high local control and tolerable complications, is an effective and safe treatment for liver metastases.
ABSTRACT
Objective To study if the dose verification technique for three dimensional conformal radiation therapy ( 3 DCRT) can be applied for simplified intensity modulation radiation therapy ( sIM RT). Methods From 1988 patients treated by sIMRT in our department,12 were chosen randomly for the study. For each case,3 differert plans of 3DCRT,sIMRT,and IMRT were worked out with Pinnacle TPS,and the dose verification for each plan was carried out with Elekta Precise LA by using 2D diode-matrix of MapCHECK Model 1175. Results For slMRT,the overall average percentages of pass points for DD(DTA) 2% (2 mm) ,3% (3 mm)and 4% (4 mm) were 90.5% ,94.8% and 98.2% reapectively,which were slightly worse when comparing with those of 3DCRT with deterioration of 1.9% (t=2.19,P=0.040) ,1.0% (t= 1.52,P=0.144) and 0.2% (t=0.05,P=0.623), but slightly better comparing with those of IMRT with increment of 2.1% (t=2.17,P=0.041) ,1.5% (t=2.62,P=0.016) and 1.5% (t=3.68,P=0.001) for 2% (2 mm) ,3% (3 mm) and 4% (4 mm) ,respectively. Conclusions The sIMRT technique simplifies the complicated dose verification procedure of I MRT. When the sIMRT technique is formally used, the procedure of dose distribution verification for 3DCRT can be used directly for slMRT.