Electroacupuncture at Sensitized Acupoints Relieves Somatic Referred Pain in Colitis Rats by Inhibiting Sympathetic-Sensory Coupling to Interfere with 5-HT Signaling Pathway / 中国结合医学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate whether electroacupuncture (EA) at sensitized acupoints could reduce sympathetic-sensory coupling (SSC) and neurogenic inflammatory response by interfering with 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)ergic neural pathways to relieve colitis and somatic referred pain, and explore the underlying mechanisms.@*METHODS@#Rats were treated with 5% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) solution for 7 days to establish a colitis model. Twelve rats were randomly divided into the control and model groups according to a random number table (n=6). According to the "Research on Rat Acupoint Atlas", sensitized acupoints and non-sensitized acupoints were determined. Rats were randomly divided into the control, model, Zusanli-EA (ST 36), Dachangshu-EA (BL 25), and Xinshu (BL 15) groups (n=6), as well as the control, model, EA, and EA + GR113808 (a 5-HT inhibitor) groups (n=6). The rats in the control group received no treatment. Acupuncture was administered on 2 days after modeling using the stimulation pavameters: 1 mA, 2 Hz, for 30 min, with sparse and dense waves, for 14 consecutive days. GR113808 was injected into the tail vein at 5 mg/kg before EA for 10 min for 7 consecutive days. Mechanical sensitivity was assessed with von Frey filaments. Body weight and disease activity index (DAI) scores of rats were determined. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed to observe colon histopathology. SSC was analyzed by immunofluorescence staining. Immunohistochemical staining was performed to detect 5-HT and substance P (SP) expressions. The calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in skin tissue and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) protein levels in DRG were detected by Western blot. The levels of hyaluronic acid (HA), bradykinin (BK), prostaglandin I2 (PGI2) in skin tissue, 5-HT, tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (TPH1), serotonin transporters (SERT), 5-HT 3 receptor (5-HT3R), and 5-HT 4 receptor (5-HT4R) in colon tissue were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).@*RESULTS@#BL 25 and ST 36 acupoints were determined as sensitized acupoints, and BL 15 acupoint was used as a non-sensitized acupoint. EA at sensitized acupoints improved the DAI score, increased mechanical withdrawal thresholds, and alleviated colonic pathological damage of rats. EA at sensitized acupoints reduced SSC structures and decreased TH and CGRP expression levels (P<0.05). Furthermore, EA at sensitized acupoints reduced BK, PGI2, 5-HT, 5-HT3R and TPH1 levels, and increased HA, 5-HT4R and SERT levels in colitis rats (P<0.05). GR113808 treatment diminished the protective effect of EA at sensitized acupoints in colitis rats (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#EA at sensitized acupoints alleviated DSS-induced somatic referred pain in colitis rats by interfering with 5-HTergic neural pathway, and reducing SSC inflammatory response.

Effects of Electroacupuncture on Urodynamics and Expression of ERK/CREB/Bcl-2 Pathway in Spinal Cord of Rats with Neurogenic Bladder after Suprasacral Spinal Cord Injury / 中国中医药信息杂志

Objective To observe the effects of electroacupuncture at"Ciliao","Zhongji","Sanyinjiao"and"Dazhui"on urodynamics and expression of ERK/CREB/Bcl-2 pathway in spinal cord tissue of neurogenic bladder rats after suprasacral spinal cord injury.Methods Sixty female SD rats randomly selected 24 and divided into blank group and sham-operation group(12 rats in each group),the remaining 36 rats were subjected to surgical modeling.After modeling,rats were randomly divided into the model group and the electroacupuncture group,with 12 rats in each group.The electroacupuncture group received unilateral electroacupuncture stimulation at acupoints"Ciliao","Zhongji","Sanyinjiao",and"Dazhui"for 30 minutes each time,once a day,for 7 consecutive days.After administration,urodynamic testing was performed,HE staining was used to observe the morphology of bladder detrusor tissue,TUNEL method was used to detected apoptosis in spinal cord tissue,Western blot was used to detected expressions of p-ERK1/2,p-CREB,p-p90Rsk,CRE,Bcl-2,and Bax proteins in spinal cord tissue.Results Compared with the sham-operation group,the basal pressure,maximum pressure,and leakage point pressure of the bladder in the model group increased significantly(P<0.01),while the maximum capacity and compliance of the bladder decreased significantly(P<0.01);the structure of bladder smooth muscle cells was severely damaged and disorderly arranged,accompanied by a large amount of inflammatory cell infiltration;the apoptosis rate of spinal cord tissue cells significantly increased(P<0.01),and the expressions of p-ERK1/2,p-p90Rsk,p-CREB,CRE,and Bcl-2 proteins in spinal cord tissue were significantly decreased,while the expression of Bax protein significantly increased(P<0.01).Compared with the model group,the basal pressure,maximum pressure,and leakage point pressure of the bladder in the electroacupuncture group decreased significantly(P<0.05),while the maximum capacity and compliance of the bladder increased significantly(P<0.05,P<0.01);the integrity of bladder smooth muscle cells was enhanced,the degree of cell edema was reduced,and inflammatory cell infiltration was reduced;the apoptosis rate of spinal cord tissue cells was significantly reduced(P<0.05),and the expressions of p-ERK1/2,p-p90Rsk,p-CREB,CRE,and Bcl-2 proteins in spinal cord tissue significantly increased,while the expression of Bax protein was significantly decreased(P<0.05,P<0.01).Conclusion Electroacupuncture can promote the repair of bladder detrusor tissue in rats with neurogenic bladder model after suprasacral spinal cord injury,increase the maximum capacity and compliance of the bladder,alleviate the high pressure state in the bladder,and its mechanism is related to activating the ERK/CREB/Bcl-2 pathway,reducing secondary apoptosis of damaged neurons,effectively improving bladder innervation,and protecting bladder function.

Role of ion channels in the pathogenesis of rosacea / 中华皮肤科杂志

External physicochemical factors and emotional changes often lead to intermittent facial flushing in patients with rosacea, accompanied by burning, stinging, and itching sensations. Many studies have demonstrated that neurovascular dysfunction and neurogenic inflammation induced by neuropeptides released following the activation of ion channels were associated with the occurrence of rosacea. This review summarizes research progress on the role of ion channels in the pathogenesis of rosacea and provides evidence for further research on ion channels as potential therapeutic targets for rosacea.

Clinical efficacy of robot-assisted thoracoscopic surgery for posterior mediastinal neurogenic tumour / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#Objective To evaluate the short-term outcome of robot-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (RATS) for the treatment of posterior mediastinal neurogenic tumour. Methods The clinical data of consecutive patients with mediastinal neurogenic tumors who received RATS treatment completed by the same operator in the Department of Thoracic Surgery, Gansu Provincial People's Hospital from June 2016 to June 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The tumors were preoperatively localized and evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging or enhanced CT. Results A total of 35 patients were enrolled, including 19 males and 16 females with a mean age of 34.9±7.1 years. All patients successfully completed the resection of posterior mediastinal neurogenic tumors under RATS, and no conversion to thoracotomy occurred during the operation. The average operative time was 62.3±18.0 min, docking time was 10.3±2.6 min, intraoperative bleeding was 33.9±21.6 mL, postoperative 24-hour chest drainage was 69.0±28.9 mL, postoperative chest drainage time was 2.0 (1.0, 3.0) d and the postoperative hospital stay was 3.0 (2.0, 4.0) d. Postoperative complications occurred in 3 patients, including 2 patients with transient Honor syndrome and 1 patient with transient anhidrosis of the affected upper limb. Conclusion RATS for posterior mediastinal neurogenic tumours is safe, effective and feasible, and allows the full benefit of the robotic surgical system to be exploited.

Diagnosis and management of diabetes insipidus complicated with upper urinary tract dilatation: a single-center experience / 现代泌尿外科杂志

【Objective】 To investigate the urinary tract characteristics of diabetes insipidus (DI) complicated with upper urinary tract dilatation (UUTD), and to summarize the treatment experience. 【Methods】 The clinical data of 28 DI patients treated in China Rehabilitation Research Center were retrospectively analyzed with UUTD and all urinary tract dysfunction (AUTD) systems to evaluate the urinary tract characteristics. The relevant laboratory results, video-urodynamic recordings (VUDS), UUTD, neurophysiologic tests, treatment regimens and follow-up data were summarized. 【Results】 There were 21 DI cases (75.0%) and 7 cases of DI with neurogenic bladder (NB). Polyuria, polydipsia, urine specific gravity, urine osmotic pressure and water deprivation vasopressin test had diagnostic value for DI. In addition, detailed history, neurological examination, VUDS and neurophysiologic tests had significant diagnostic value for DI with NB. Enterocystoplasty was recommended for 2 DI with NB patients with poor bladder capacity, compliance and renal impairment. For the remaining 26 patients, individualized medication combined with bladder neck incision and appropriate bladder management, including intermittent catheterization, catheter indwelling and regular voiding, achieved satisfactory results. High serum creatinine decreased from (269.8±105.7)μmol/L to (164.4±90.2)μmol/L in 13 patients with abnormal renal function. Forty-eight dilated ureters showed significant improvement in the UUTD grade, and the median grade decreased from 3 to 2. 【Conclusion】 Bladder distension, trabeculation and decreased or absent sensations were common features for DI patients with UUTD. Individualized therapy by medication combined with appropriate bladder management can improve the dilatation and renal function.

Sacral neuromodulation effective for neurogenic bladder: a Meta-analysis / 现代泌尿外科杂志

【Objective】 To evaluate the efficacy of sacral neuromodulation (SNM) in the treatment of neurogenic bladder (NB) with Meta-analysis, so as to provide reference for clinical treatment options for NB. 【Methods】 Relevant literatures regarding the efficacy of SNM in treating NB during Jan.2010 and Dec.2022 were collected from the PubMed and CNKI databases, and screened with inclusion and exclusion criteria.After the quality of literatures was assessed, data were extracted and then analyzed using Review Manager 5.3. 【Results】 The research included 14 studies involving 601 patients.Meta-analysis showed that SNM significantly improved urinary frequency (WMD=4.30, 95%CI: 2.84-5.77, P<0.01), daily episodes of urinary incontinence (WMD=2.92, 95%CI: 2.76-3.07, P<0.01), single void volume (WMD=-113.93, 95%CI: -159.91- -67.98, P<0.01), maximum flow rate (WMD=-3.23, 95%CI: -4.04- -2.42, P<0.01), residual urine (WMD=111.79, 95%CI: 79.93-143.64, P<0.01), maximum bladder capacity (WMD=-65.63, 95%CI: -84.38- -46.88, P<0.01), and bladder compliance (WMD=-4.65, 95%CI: -8.75- -0.55, P=0.03). 【Conclusion】 SNM is effective in the treatment of NB, but more randomized controlled trials are needed to verify the efficacy.

Afferent baroreflex failure with hyponatremia:A case report / 北京大学学报(医学版)

Afferent baroreflex failure(ABF)is a rare disease.It refers to the clinical syndrome caused by the impairment of the afferent limb of the baroreflex or its central connections at the level of the medul-la.The recognized causes include trauma,surgery in related areas(radical neck tumor surgery,carotid endarterectomy),neck radiotherapy,brain stem stroke,tumor growth paraganglioma and hereditary diseases,among which the most common cause is extensive neck surgery or radiotherapy for neck cancer.The main manifestations are fluctuating hypertension,orthostatic hypotension,paroxysmal tachycardia and bradycardia.This case is a young man,whose main feature is blood pressure fluctuation,accom-panied by neurogenic orthostatic hypotension(nOH).After examination,the common causes of hyper-tension and nOH were ruled out.Combined with the previous neck radiotherapy and neck lymph node dissection,it was considered that the blood pressure regulation was abnormal due to the damage of carotid sinus baroreceptor after radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma and neck lymph node dissection,which was called ABF.At the same time,the patient was complicated with chronic hyponatremia.Com-bined with clinical and laboratory examination,the final consideration was caused by syndrome of in-appropriate antidiuretic hormone(SIADH).Baroreceptors controlled the secretion of heart rate,blood pres-sure and antidiuretic hormone through the mandatory"inhibition"signal.We speculate that the carotid sinus baroreceptor was damaged after neck radiotherapy and surgery,which leads to abnormal blood pres-sure regulation and nOH,while the function of inhibiting ADH secretion was weakened,resulting in higher ADH than normal level and mild hyponatremia.The goal of treating ABF patients was to reduce the frequency and amplitude of sudden changes in blood pressure and heart rate,and to alleviate the on-set of symptomatic hypotension.At present,drug treatment is still controversial,and non-drug treatment may alleviate some patients'symptoms,but long-term effective treatment still needs further study.The incidence of ABF is not high,but it may lead to serious cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events,and the mechanism involved is extremely complicated,and there are few related studies.The reports of rele-vant medical records warn that patients undergoing neck radiotherapy or surgery should minimize the da-mage to the baroreceptor in the carotid sinus in order to reduce the adverse prognosis caused by complica-tions.

Clinical Study of Modified Shenqi Pill （肾气丸） Plus Tongdu Tiaoshen Acupuncture （通督调神针刺） for Neurogenic Bladder After Spinal Cord Injury of Kidney-Yang Deficiency Syndrome / 中医杂志

ObjectiveTo observe the clinical efficacy of modified Shenqi Pill （肾气丸） plus Tongdu Tiaoshen Acupuncture （通督调神针刺） in the treatment of neurogenic bladder after spinal cord injury of kidney-yang deficiency syndrome. MethodsForty-six patients were randomly divided into 23 cases each in the control group and the treatment group. Both groups were given conventional treatment， i.e. oral methylcobalamin tablets （0.5 mg each time， 3 times a day） and paraplegic conventional acupuncture （once a day， 6 consecutive days a week）. The control group was given simple bladder function rehabilitation training on the basis of the conventional treatment； and the treatment group was given modified Shenqi Pill orally （1 dose a day， 150 ml each time， taken warmly in morning and evening） and Tongdu Tiaoshen Acupuncture （once a day， 6 consecutive days per week） in addition to what were given to the control group. The treatment course lasted for 4 weeks. The 24 h urination frequency， 24 h urine leakage frequency， 24 h single urine volume， bladder residual urine volume， international lower urinary tract symptom （LUTS） score， traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） syndrome score were compared between the two groups， and clinical effectiveness and TCM syndrome effectiveness were compared between the two groups after treatment. ResultsTwenty patients in each group were finally analyzed in this study. The number of 24 h urination， the number of 24 h urine leakage， bladder residual urine volume， LUTS score， and the TCM syndrome scores decreased after treatment in both groups， and the 24 h single urine volume increased （P＜0.01）； and much more improvement was found of each index in the treatment group than in the control group （P＜0.05 or P＜0.01）. The total clinical effectiveness and TCM syndrome effectiveness in the treatment group was 85.00% （17/20） respectively， which were statistically significantly higher than 45.00% （the total clinical effectiveness， 9/20） and 60.00% （TCM syndrome effectiveness， 12/20） in the control group （P＜0.01）. ConclusionModified Shenqi Pill plus Tongdu Tiaoshen Acupuncture can signi-ficantly improve the clinical symptoms of neurogenic bladder patients after spinal cord injury of kidney-yang deficiency syndrome， having better effectiveness than simple bladder function rehabilitation training， and its mechanism may be related to the improvement of the injured nerve function innervating the bladder.

Application and prospect of reconstructing bladder micturition reflex in neurogenic bladder after spinal cord injury / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND:The dysfunction of bladder function caused by spinal cord injury is a difficult point in clinical treatment and a hot spot in research.Repairing the injured spinal cord and remodeling the bladder micturition reflex pathway are the fundamental treatment methods. OBJECTIVE:To summarize the reconstruction of the bladder innervation pathway after spinal cord transection injury and its related influencing factors. METHODS:The relevant literature concerning the reconstruction of bladder micturition reflex,neurogenic bladder and urinary reflex and spinal cord repair was retrieved on CNKI,WanFang Data,PubMed and Web of Science.Chinese and English search terms were"neurogenic bladder;spinal cord injury;micturition reflex;spinal cord repair". RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:In the process of reconstructing the bladder micturition reflex,there are many factors involved,including the repair and reconstruction of the injured spinal cord,the remodeling of micturition center,the changes of bladder tissue and substances and hormones in and out of the body.In this process,there are mainly the following problems:(1)As a complex process,there are many sites involved in the reconstruction of the micturition reflex,so the main sites of action can be selected for in-depth study,so as to break through the doubts existing in the reconstruction of the micturition reflex pathway.(2)The mechanism of the normal micturition reflex is complex.After spinal cord transection injury,whether the central nucleus mass controlling or participating in the micturition reflex is compensated and the corresponding compensatory mechanism needs to be further investigated.(3)Information communication between the center and the bladder is interrupted after spinal cord transection injury.Whether there is a direct information connection between the center and the bladder remains to be further investigated.(4)The relationship between reconstructing micturition reflex and body fluid after spinal cord transection injury needs further study.In the reconstruction of the bladder micturition reflex,the key treatment is to promote spinal cord repair,nerve reflex reconstruction,substance metabolism and bladder tissue structure adjustment through intervention.Chinese medicine and Western medicine have their methods.

Electroacupuncture improves morphological structure of the detrusor muscle and bladder function in rats with spinal cord injury / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND:Numerous clinical and basic studies have shown that electroacupuncture can improve the function of neurogenic bladder after suprasacral spinal cord injury. OBJECTIVE:To observe the effects of electroacupuncture on bladder function and connective tissue growth factor expression in rats with suprasacral spinal cord injury. METHODS:Forty-eight female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups(n=12 per group):the blank group did not receive any treatment;the sham-operated group only exposed the T8 subvertebral spinal cord;in the model group established,a T8 subvertebral spinal cord transection injury model was established;in the electroacupuncture group,the T8 subvertebral spinal cord transection injury model was established,and electroacupuncture intervention at Ciliao(BL32),Zhongji(RN03)and Sanyinjiao(SP06)was given at 19 days after modeling,20 minutes once a day,for 10 continuous days.After the intervention,the relevant indicators were detected. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:Urodynamics:Compared with the blank group,the leakage point pressure,maximum bladder capacity and maximum bladder pressure of rats in the model group increased(P<0.05).Compared with the model group,the leakage point pressure,maximum bladder capacity and maximum bladder pressure of rats in the electroacupuncture group decreased(P<0.05).Hematoxylin-eosin staining:Compared with the blank group,the bladder epithelial cells in the model group were arranged in a disordered manner,the lamina propria was destroyed,the detrusor muscle bundles were hypertrophied,the muscle fibers were arranged in a disordered manner,and the tissue edema was obvious.Compared with the model group,the bladder epithelial cells in the electroacupuncture group were arranged in a regular and orderly manner,and the degree of bladder fibrosis and tissue edema was relatively reduced.Masson staining:The degree of bladder detrusor muscle fibrosis was severe in the model group and it was lighter in the electroacupuncture group than in the model group.Transmission electron microscopy:Mitochondria in the bladder tissue in the model group were swollen and vacuolated,the morphology of the detrusor muscle was twisted and distorted,and the muscle gap was widened.Compared with the model group,mitochondria in the electroacupuncture group had a slightly clearer contour and were less vacuolated,and the muscle gap was narrowed.Western blot detection:The protein expression of connective tissue growth factor in the detrusor muscle of the bladder was elevated in the model group compared with the blank group(P<0.05).Compared with the model group,the protein expression of connective tissue growth factor in the bladder detrusor muscle was decreased in the electroacupuncture group(P<0.05).To conclude,electroacupuncture at Ciliao(BL32),Zhongji(RN03)and Sanyinjiao(SP06)acupoints can improve the morphology,structure and function of the bladder in rats with suprasacral spinal cord injury,and the mechanism of action may be related to the down-regulation of connective tissue growth factor protein expression in the detrusor muscle.

Validation of a mobile application for adults with neurological lower urinary tract dysfunction / Validação de aplicativo móvel para adultos com disfunção neurológica do trato urinário inferior / Validación de una aplicación móvil para adultos con disfunción neurológica del tracto urinario inferior

Abstract Objective: to validate with experts the content of a mobile application to guide patients with neurological dysfunction of the lower urinary tract. Method: methodological study. For content validation, 81 specialist nurses took part. The data collection instrument was designed in the form of an electronic form, and included assessments of the application's objectives, content, language, relevance, functionality and usability. The data was submitted to descriptive and inferential statistical analysis, based on the measurement of the Content Validity Index. Results: the overall content validity index of the prototype application was 0.98. The lowest item (0.93) was related to the adequacy of the font size, and the highest module (1) was associated with usability, showing ease in handling the application. The experts recommended correcting spelling and grammar, as well as adding and minimizing information, standardizing language, among others. Conclusion: the content of the MeduLar sem Medo ® mobile app was validated with excellence by specialists, and presented important resources for teaching urinary dysfunction control and adherence to rehabilitation. With these results, it is possible to envision the next stages of validation, with application in the populations for which it is intended and incorporation of this care technology into the Unified Health System.

Resumo Objetivo: validar com especialistas o conteúdo de aplicativo móvel para orientação de pacientes com disfunção neurológica do trato urinário inferior. Método: estudo metodológico. Para validação do conteúdo, participaram 81 enfermeiros especialistas. O instrumento de coleta de dados foi elaborado no formato de formulário eletrônico e conteve avaliações sobre objetivos, conteúdo, linguagem, relevância, funcionalidade e usabilidade do aplicativo. Os dados foram submetidos à análise estatística descritiva e inferencial, com base na mensuração do Índice de Validade de Conteúdo. Resultados: o índice de validade de conteúdo global do protótipo de aplicativo foi de 0,98. O item mais baixo (0,93) foi referente à adequação do tamanho da fonte, e o módulo mais alto (1) foi associado à usabilidade, que mostrou facilidade no manuseio do aplicativo. Os especialistas recomendaram correção ortográfica e gramatical, além de acréscimos e minimização de informações, padronização da linguagem, dentre outros. Conclusão: o conteúdo do aplicativo móvel MeduLar sem Medo® foi validado com excelência por especialistas, pois apresentou recursos importantes para o ensino do controle da disfunção urinária e a adesão à reabilitação. Com tais resultados, é possível vislumbrar as próximas etapas de validação, com aplicação nas populações a que se destina e incorporação desta tecnologia de cuidado no âmbito do Sistema Único de Saúde.

Resumen Objetivo: validar con especialistas el contenido de una aplicación móvil para orientación de pacientes con disfunción neurológica del tracto urinario inferior. Método: estudio metodológico. Para la validación del contenido, participaron 81 enfermeros especialistas. El instrumento de recolección de datos se elaboró en formato de formulario electrónico y contuvo evaluaciones sobre objetivos, contenido, lenguaje, relevancia, funcionalidad y usabilidad de la aplicación. Los datos se sometieron a análisis estadístico descriptivo e inferencial, basado en la medición del Índice de Validez de Contenido. Resultados: el índice de validez de contenido global del prototipo de la aplicación fue de 0,98. El ítem más bajo (0,93) se refirió a la adecuación del tamaño de la fuente, y el módulo más alto (1) se asoció a la usabilidad, que mostró facilidad en el manejo de la aplicación. Los especialistas recomendaron corrección ortográfica y gramatical, además de adiciones y minimización de información, estandarización del lenguaje, entre otros. Conclusión: el contenido de la aplicación móvil MeduLar sin Miedo® fue validado con excelencia por especialistas, pues presentó recursos importantes para la enseñanza del control de la disfunción urinaria y la adhesión a la rehabilitación. Con tales resultados, es posible vislumbrar las próximas etapas de validación, con aplicación en las poblaciones a las que se destina e incorporación de esta tecnología de cuidado en el ámbito del Sistema Único de Salud.

Charcot Arthropathy of the Shoulder Associated with Syringomyelia: A Report of 2 Cases / Artropatia do ombro de Charcot associada à Siringomielia: Relato de 2 casos

Charcot arthropathy of the shoulder caused by syringomyelia is a unusual degenerative disorder, frequently misdiagnosed and with few cases described in the literature. The diagnosis is made by clinical evaluation and radiological examinations with radiography and magnetic resonance imaging. However, the correct diagnosis and treatment is possible by carefully medical evaluation and can improve patient symptoms. Therefore, this study aimed to report two cases of Charcot arthropathy caused by syringomyelia. After achieving correct neurosurgical evaluation and magnetic resonance imaging, the diagnosis was made. The first case is a 53-year-old man with a click on his right shoulder for at least 12 months, associated with local edema, pain and limitation of joint range of motion. The second is a 45-year-old man with pain in the right upper limb and difficulty moving the joint for at least 24 months, associated with progressive worsening of the collection and edema in the ipsilateral upper limb. Posterior fossa decompression was performed, with symptoms relief after surgery. Posterior fossa decompression is a treatment that seems to be effective in reducing symptoms, especially when the diagnosis is early. However, this type of treatment still remains controversial, requiring further studies.

A artopatia de Charcot do ombro causada por siringomielia é uma doença degenerativa incomum, frequentemente subdiagnosticada e com poucos casos descritos na literatura. O diagnóstico é feito pela avaliação clínica e exames radiológicos com radiografia e ressonância magnética. No entanto, o diagnóstico e tratamento corretos são possíveis mediante avaliação médica criteriosa e podem melhorar os sintomas do paciente. Portanto, este trabalho objetiva relatar dois casos de artropatia de Charcot causada por siringomielia. Após obter correta avaliação neurocirúrgica e ressonância magnética, o diagnóstico foi feito. O primeiro caso é um homem de 53 anos com clique no ombro direito por pelo menos 12 meses, associado a edema local, dor e limitação da amplitude do movimento articular. O segundo é um homem de 45 anos com dor em membro superior direito e dificuldade de movimentação articular há pelo menos 24 meses, associada a piora progressiva da coleção e edema em membro superior ipsilateral. A descompressão da fossa posterior foi realizada, com alívio dos sintomas após a cirurgia. A descompressão da fossa posterior é um tratamento que parece eficaz na redução dos sintomas, principalmente quando o diagnóstico é precoce. Porém, esse tipo de tratamento ainda permanece controverso, necessitando de mais estudos.

Dynamic and static ultrasound features predictive of vesicoureteral reflux and renal damage in children and adolescents with neurogenic bladder

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to analyze the diagnostic accuracy of dynamic and static ultrasound (DSUS) in detecting vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and renal scarring in a cohort of children with neurogenic bladder (NB). Materials and Methods: A retrospective, longitudinal, observational study was conducted using the Reporting Diagnostic Accuracy Studies guideline. The DSUS (index test) data were compared with voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) and renal scintigraphy 99mTc-dimercaptosuccinic (reference tests). Overall performance for predicting VUR and renal scarring was assessed using renal pelvic diameter (RPD)/distal ureteral diameter and renal parenchymal thinning on DSUS, respectively. Results: A total of 107 patients (66 girls, median age 9.6 years) participated. Seventeen patients (15.9%) presented VUR, eight bilateral. For overall reflux grade, the AUC was 0.624 for RPD and 0.630 for distal ureteral diameter. The diagnostic performance for detecting high-grade VUR was slightly better for DSUS parameters. The AUC was 0.666 for RPD and 0.691 for distal ureteral diameter. The cut-offs of 5 mm for RPD and 6.5 mm for distal ureteral diameter presented the best diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) to identify high-grade VUR. The increase of RPD during detrusor contractions showed an accuracy of 89.2%. The thinness of renal parenchyma presented an accuracy of 88% for renal scarring. Conclusion: DSUS predicts VUR and renal scarring in children with NB with fair to good accuracy, and all measurements exhibited a high negative predictive value (NPV). The increase in RPD during voiding or detrusor contractions proved to be the most accurate parameter for indicating the presence of VUR in this study.

Diagnóstico y tratamiento de pacientes con vejiga neurogénica en la Unidad Técnica de Cirugía Pediátrica / Diagnosis and treatment of patients with Neurogenic bladder in the Surgery Technical Unit Pediatric

El presente trabajo toma como base el documento: "Manejo Urológico del Mielomeningocele" de las Guías de Atención Pediátrica, del Hospital De Pediatría "Juan P. Garrahan" de la ciudad de Buenos Aires - Argentina; de los autores: Dra. Carol Burek y Dra. Liliana Campmany. En la Unidad Técnica de Cirugía Pediátrica del Hospital de Especialidades Carlos Andrade Marín, se atienden por mes unos 50 a 70 pacientes afectos de vejiga neurogénica desde el nacimiento hasta la adolescencia. Es una enfermedad crónica que requiere un diagnóstico correcto con estudios de imagen y función de la vía urinaria además de un posterior manejo diario por parte de los padres con la guía del médico especialista.

This work is based on the document: "Urological Management of Myelomeningocele" from the Pediatric Care Guidelines of the Hospital De Pediatría "Juan P. Garrahan" of the city of Buenos Aires - Argentina; by the authors: Dr. Carol Burek and Dr. Liliana Campmany. In the Pediatric Surgery Technical Unit of the Carlos Andrade Marín Specialties Hospital, 50 to 70 patients affected by neurogenic bladder from birth to adolescence are treated every month. It is a chronic disease that requires a correct diagnosis with imaging and urinary tract function studies, as well as subsequent daily management by the parents under the guidance of the specialist.

A rare case of migrainous left bell抯 palsy after migrainous right external ophthalmoplegia - A case report

Migraine increased the risk of Bell palsy in the total population. Among migraine patients, between ?30 and <60 years old are at an increased risk of Bell palsy. A migraine is a primary headache characterized by recurrent headache attacks triggered by various factors. As much as 10% of the global population is thought to experience migraine headaches. It was earlier considered that migraine headaches were triggered by the dilation of cerebral vessels, and the recent evidence supports that migraine attacks can also occur in the absence of vasodilation. According to the researchers, the direct neural effects from the trigeminal nerve to the facial nerve could contribute to the risk of facial palsy among patients with migraine. An alteration of the trigeminovascular function has been suggested to trigger migraines. The neurogenic inflammation of the facial nerve trunk caused by its proximity to the dilated posterior auricular/ stylomastoid/ occipital and superficial temporal arteries during a migraine attack leads to a temporary lower motor neuron type of paresis of the muscles supplied by the facial nerve. We herewith report a rare case of migrainous left Bell抯 palsy after migrainous right external ophthalmoplegia, treated with Sumatriptan.

Validation of the Vancouver Symptom Score Questionnaire for bladder and bowel dysfunction for Brazilian children and adolescents

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to translate, and perform a cross-cultural adaptation, and validation of the Vancouver Symptom Score (VSS) for bladder and bowel dysfunction (BBD) for Brazilian children and adolescents Materials and Methods: Six steps were performed for the translation and cross-cultural adaptation: (1) translation, (2) synthesis of translations, (3) back-translation, (4) pre-final version of the translated instrument, (5) pilot test and degree of comprehensibility and (6) elaboration of the Brazilian version of the VSS. For validation, the Brazilian Dysfunctional Voiding Score (DVSS) questionnaire was used. Results: Validation was performed on a sample of 107 children and adolescents with a mean age of 9.2 ± 2.84 years, presenting BBD and 107 without BBD (control group-CG). There was a positive correlation (r = 0.91, 95% CI 0.88 to 0.93, p < 0.0001) between total VSS score and total DVSS score. VSS was higher in patients with BBD (p < 0.0001). The internal consistency estimated by Cronbach's alpha was 0.87 for patients with BBD. The VSS showed excellent diagnostic accuracy in detecting cases, with an area under the ROC curve of 98% (95% CI 0.96 to 0.99, p < 0.001). A cut-off value of >11 points produced a sensitivity of 100% (95% CI 96.4% to 100%) and a specificity of 91.8% (95% CI 85.1% to 95.6%). Conclusion: The translated, cross-culturally adapted, and validated VSS for the Brazilian population is a reliable and valid tool to identify symptoms of BBD in children and adolescents aged five to 16 years, whose first language is Brazilian Portuguese.

[Errata] Estudo piloto sobre diâmetro do canal lombar e distância percorrida em pacientes com estenose espinhal lombar: um modelo de predição multivariado / [Erratum] Pilot study on lumbar canal diameter and walking distance in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis: a multivariate prediction model

INTRODUCTION: Neurogenic claudication (NC) is the classic clinical presentation of patients with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS). These patients may or may not present with symptoms of leg pain and difficulty walking. These symptoms are exacerbated while walking and standing and are eased by sitting or bending forward. METHOD: Patients with LSS, having a lumbar canal diameter of ≤12mm, were recruited from a recognized Tertiary care hospital. Each subject's demographic characteristics and anthropometrics were noted, and the testing procedure was explained. The canal diameter was documented with the help of an MRI report. A self-paced walking test was used to assess the walking distance. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Depending on the normality of the data, the Pearson correlation coefficient (r) was used to find the correlation between canal diameter at different lumbar levels and walking distance in patients with LSS. RESULT: Pearson correlation coefficient (r) determined a fair positive correlation (r = 0.29) between lumbar canal diameter and walking distance. Stepwise multiple regression analysis was done, and a prediction equation was found for different levels of canal stenosis. CONCLUSION: Findings of our present study suggest a fair positive correlation between walking distance and canal diameter at L5-S1. This study may also be useful in predicting the approximate canal diameter by estimating the walking distance of the patient with symptoms of LSS and vice-versa.

INTRODUÇÃO: A claudicação neurogênica (CN) é a apresentação clínica clássica de pacientes com Estenose Espinhal Lombar (EEL). Esses pacientes podem ou não apresentar sintomas de dor nas pernas e dificuldade para caminhar. Esses sintomas são exacerbados ao caminhar e ficar em pé e são aliviados ao sentar ou inclinar-se para a frente. MÉTODO: Pacientes com EEL, com diâmetro do canal lombar ≤12mm, foram recrutados em um hospital terciário reconhecido. As características demográficas e antropométricas de cada sujeito foram anotadas e o procedimento do teste foi explicado. O diâmetro do canal foi documentado com a ajuda de um relatório de ressonância magnética. Um teste de caminhada individualizado foi usado para avaliar a distância percorrida. ANÁLISE ESTATÍSTICA: Dependendo da normalidade dos dados, o coeficiente de correlação de Pearson (r) foi usado para encontrar a correlação entre o diâmetro do canal em diferentes níveis lombares e a distância percorrida em pacientes com EEL. RESULTADO: O coeficiente de correlação de Pearson (r) determinou uma correlação positiva razoável (r = 0,29) entre o diâmetro do canal lombar e a distância percorrida. Análise de regressão múltipla stepwise foi feita, e uma equação de predição foi encontrada para diferentes níveis de estenose do canal. CONCLUSÃO: Os achados de nosso estudo sugerem uma correlação positiva razoável entre a distância percorrida e o diâmetro do canal em L5-S1. Este estudo também pode ser útil para prever o diâmetro aproximado do canal, estimando a distância percorrida pelo paciente com sintomas de EEL e vice-versa.

Effect and Mechanism of Cuscutae Semen Total Flavonoids Combined with Tripterygium wilfordii Polyglycoside Tablets on Ovarian Germline Stem Cells of Physiological Mice by Notch Signaling Pathway / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo observe the effect of Cuscutae Semen total flavonoids combined with Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside tablets （TWPT） on ovarian germline stem cells of female physiological mice through neurogenic locus notch homolog （Notch） signaling pathway. MethodSixty female Kunming mice （5 weeks old） were randomly divided into normal group， Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside tablets low-， high-dose groups （13.65 mg·kg-1·d-1 and 27.3 mg·kg-1·d-1， 1 and 2 times clinical equivalent dose）， Cuscutae Semen total flavonoids low- and high-dose groups （150 mg·kg-1·d-1 and 300 mg·kg-1·d-1）， and combination group （13.65 mg·kg-1·d-1 TWPT and 150 mg·kg-1·d-1 Cuscutae Semen total flavonoids）， with 10 in each group. After 3 weeks of continuous administration， the uterus/brain and ovarian/brain indexes were calculated， and the pathological changes of ovarian tissue were observed under light microscope. The content of estradiol in serum was determined by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA）. Immunofluorescence assay was performed to observe the expressions of germline stem cell markers in ovarian epithelium， including mouse vasa homologue （Mvh）， octamer-binding transcription factor 4 （Oct4）， tyrosine-protein kinase receptor （c-kit）， Nanog， Notch signaling pathway molecules， neurogenic locus notch homolog protein 1 （Notch1）， hes family BHLH transcription factor 1（Hes1）， and jagged canonical Notch ligand 1 （JAG1）. ResultCompared with the normal group， low and high doses of TWPT had no significant effect on the uterus/brain and ovary/brain indexes and the uterus and ovary morphologies of mice， while only the number of atretic follicles was increased （P<0.01）. The expressions of ovarian germline stem cell markers and Notch signaling pathway molecules had a decreasing trend in TWPT low-dose group， while the expressions of Mvh， c-kit， and Nanog were down-regulated （P<0.05， P<0.01） and the expressions of Notch1 and Hes1 were also reduced （P<0.01） in TWPT high-dose group. However， the above indexes were increased in Cuscutae Semen total flavonoids low-dose group （P<0.05， P<0.01）. Compared with the low does of TWPT group， the combination group had a decrease in the increased number of atretic follicles （P<0.01）， an improvement in the down-regulated expressions of Mvh and Nanog （P<0.01）， and an increase in the expressions of Notch1 and Hes1 （P<0.05， P<0.01）. ConclusionOvarian germline stem cells are the source target of the reproductive toxicity of TWPT. Cuscutae Semen total flavonoids participate in the regulation of the germline stem cell pathways to alleviate the reproductive toxicity caused by TWPT， and its mechanism of action may be related to the Notch signaling pathway.

Treating Neurogenic Heterotopic Ossification around a Femur Following Paraplegia after an Open Surgery for Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm / 日本心臓血管外科学会雑誌

A 59-year-old man who was diagnosed with hypertension and a large thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm was referred to our hospital for surgical treatment. He underwent open surgery and thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair in three stages. He developed paraplegia after the third surgery. Despite acute postoperative treatment and rehabilitation, his lower extremity motor function and bladder and bowel dysfunction did not improve. He was transferred to a recovery hospital 67 days after the third surgery. However, he was readmitted to our hospital about four months later for management of a refractory decubitus ulcer and recurrent urinary tract infections. Computed tomography revealed hematoma and calcification around the femur. Based on the clinical course and imaging findings, we diagnosed neurogenic heterotopic ossification associated with postoperative paraplegia in this patient. He had flap reconstruction for the ulcer. Finally, he was discharged 79 days after readmission. To date, no study has reported neurogenic heterotopic ossification associated with postoperative aortic aneurysm paraplegia. The mechanism underlying this condition is similar to the widely accepted process associated with traumatic spinal cord injury, and conservative treatment comprising pressure ulcer treatment and antibiotics was continued. Although acute rehabilitation is important after highly invasive aortic aneurysm surgery, rehabilitation is limited by the risk of neurogenic heterotopic ossification in patients with postoperative paraplegia, and recovery and maintenance of activities of daily living are challenging. To our knowledge, early diagnosis and prompt treatment for these complications are important considering neurogenic heterotopic ossification.

GAO Wei-bin's clinical experience in treatment of neurogenic bladder with acupuncture / 中国针灸

The paper introduces GAO Wei-bin's clinical experience in acupuncture treatment for neurogenic bladder. In association with the etiology, the location and types of neurogenic bladder and in accordance with nerve anatomy and meridian differentiation, the acupoints are selected accurately in treatment. Four acupoint prescriptions are allocated. For frequent urination and urinary incontinence, the foot-motor-sensory area of scalp acupuncture, Shenshu (BL 23) and Huiyang (BL 35) are used. For all kinds of urine retention, especially the patients who are not suitable for acupuncture at the lumbar region, Zhongji (CV 3), Qugu (CV 2), Henggu (KI 11) and Dahe (KI 12) are selected. For all kinds of urine retention, Zhongliao (BL 33) and Ciliao (BL 32) are applicable. For the patients with both dysuria and urinary incontinence, Zhongliao (BL 33), Ciliao (BL 32) and Huiyang (BL 35) are chosen. In treatment of neurogenic bladder, both biao (root causes) and ben (primary symptoms) are considered, as well as the accompanying symptoms; and electroacupuncture is combined accordingly. During the delivery of acupuncture, the sites where the acupoints located are detected and palpated so as to rationally control the depth of needle insertion and the operation of reinforcing and reducing needling techniques.