Exploring Modern Mechanism of Treating Diabetic Retinopathy and Coronary Heart Disease from Perspective of Blood Stasis Under Viewpoint of Treating Different Diseases with the Same Method / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Diabetic retinopathy（DR） and coronary heart disease（CHD） are both major chronic vascular complications that seriously jeopardize the health of the population and often occur together in clinical practice， it is of great clinical value to actively explore the association between the two in the process of disease development and methods of prevention and treatment of modern medicine and traditional Chinese medicine（TCM）. According to TCM， the heart and eyes physiologically communicate with each other by taking Qi， blood and veins as bridges， blood stasis obstructing collaterals is the common TCM etiology of DR and CHD， whose mechanism involves inflammation， oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction. Promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis plays an important role in the same treatment for different diseases and prevention and treatment of comorbidities， possibly by inhibiting the expression of interleukin-1β（IL-1β）， endothelin-1（ET-1） and hypoxia inducible factor-1α/vascular endothelial growth factor（HIF-1α/VEGF）， regulating phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin（PI3K/Akt/mTOR） pathway， initiating adenosine monophosphate（AMP）-activated protein kinase/silent information regulator 1（AMPK/SIRT1） and nuclear transcription factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1（Nrf2/HO-1） signaling pathways， inhibiting Hippo/Yes-associated protein（Hippo/YAP） signaling pathway， inhibiting mitochondrial permeability transition pore and anti-platelet agglutination for treating DR and CHD， which provides a multi-component， multi-pathway and multi-target selection strategies and ideas for the prevention and treatment of DR and CHD by TCM from a biological perspective. Based on this， subsequent studies should focus on constructing clinically relevant comorbidity models， conducting multicenter prospective studies， and fully utilizing artificial intelligence technology to gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between the two diseases， so as to elucidate the mechanism of promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis in preventing and treating panvascular diseases.

Role of HLA alleles polymorphism in systemic lupus erythematosus: A prospective study from North India

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disorder and has complex etiopathogenesis. The most appropriate hypothesis states that genetic susceptibility in the presence of environmental risk factors predisposes to SLE. HLA class II alleles are critical to immune response and are highly polymorphic. Various alleles in HLA-DR and -DQ regions were analyzed in SLE patients and healthy controls to see their role in susceptibility or protection to SLE. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective observational study, in which a total of 100 SLE patients and 100 controls were analyzed. HLA typing was done by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-sequence-specific oligonucleotide (SSO) method (SSO probe). Results: DR?1*0301 was significantly increased in SLE patients when compared to controls and had the highest odds ratio. Other risk factor alleles found to be increased were DR?1*0701, DQ?1*0202, and DQ?1*0301, which had a significant positive association with SLE, suggesting their role in susceptibility to SLE. In contrast, DR?1*0401, DR?1*1401, DR?1*1404, DR?1*1501, DQ?1*0501, and DQ?1*0201 showed statistically significant reduction in SLE patients, while these were much more common in controls, suggesting their protective role. Conclusion: This study is only the second study in patients from North India and it determines the role of DR?1*0301, DR?1*0701, DQ?1*0202, and DQ?1*0301 alleles as risk factors in SLE patients.

Hypomagnesemia � An overlooked parameter in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Background: Diabetes Mellitus refers to a group of common metabolic disorders that share the phenotype of Hyperglycemia. It is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality throughout the world with an estimated worldwide prevalence of 439 million by 2030 and 19% of world抯 DM patients are Indians. Magnesium is an important co-factor for various enzymes involved in Insulin secretion and is involved in sodium-potassium ATPase pump. 25%-38% of Type 2 DM patients had Hypomagnesemia, which has also contributed in developing microvascular complications such as Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) and Diabetic Nephropathy (DN). Various studies have suggested that Magnesium supplementation in Type 2 DM patients with Hypomagnesemia have shown beneficial effects on insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Aim and objectives: To study the prevalence of Hypomagnesemia in Type 2 DM patients and to study the association of Hypomagnesemia with microvascular complications such as DR and DN. Materials and methods: It is a hospital based Observational study carried out in 2022 for a period of 1 year including 60 patients fulfilling the ADA criteria for diagnosing T2DM and patients with Diabetic Retinopathy and Diabetic Nephropathy, and excluding patients with Malabsorption, Chronic diarrhoea, Renal Failure on diuretic therapy, Sepsis, Pancreatitis. Serum Magnesium levels of 1.6 mg/dl � 2.6 mg/dl is considered as normal range. Serum Magnesium were measured using Xylidyl blue colorimetric method. Results: The Mean age of the patients in our study was 55.89 years. Among 60 patients diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus, 42 patients had Hypomagnesemia, 18 patients had Normomagnesemia (p- value: <0.0001). Patients with an HbA1c levels > 7% had Hypomagnesemia when to compared to patients with HbA1c <7% with a significant p value of 0.009. Hypomagnesemia was also associated with Diabetic Retinopathy and Diabetic Nephropathy with a significant p-value of 0.013 and 0.009 respectively. Conclusion: In our study, it has shown that patients with uncontrolled T2DM had Hypomagnesemia, which is also associated with micro-vascular complications of T2DM such as DR and DN.

Historia de vida del Dr. C. Oscar B. Alonso Chil, ejemplo para la educación médica cubana / Life history of Ph.D. Oscar B. Alonso Chil, a role model for cuban medical education

Introducción: El Dr. C. Oscar B. Alonso Chil (1930-2021) formó parte de los médicos que permanecieron en Cuba después del triunfo de la Revolución. Fue fundador de servicios de asistencia en medicina interna y geriatría, y realizó importantes contribuciones a la docencia médica. Objetivo: Exponer la trayectoria de Oscar B. Alonso Chil como médico y docente de la medicina cubana revolucionaria, a través de su historia de vida. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio de tipo descriptivo y de corte cualitativo, donde se utilizó la técnica de la historia de vida, centrada en el aspecto profesional. Para ello se hizo una entrevista semiestructurada al testimoniante como fuente fundamental de información. Se validó el testimonio oral mediante la revisión de la documentación oficial en su expediente docente y la literatura científica existente relacionada con el tema, además de entrevistas a sus alumnos y compañeros de trabajo. Desarrollo: Se constató que fundó servicios; organizó la actividad docente; realizó tutorías, publicaciones y asesorías; y fue miembro de tribunales y consejos científicos. Cada una de sus actividades las desempeñó con gran compromiso e incondicionalidad a su profesión, lo cual le generó mucha satisfacción con la vida. Llegó a ostentar las más altas distinciones por su trabajo: Especialista de Segundo Grado en Medicina Interna, y Profesor Titular, Consultante y de Mérito de la Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de La Habana. Conclusiones: Oscar B. Alonso Chil contribuyó al desarrollo de la medina interna en Cuba en la etapa revolucionaria. Este profesor representa un modelo para los estudiantes de ciencias médicas por su prestigio profesional y científico(AU)

Introduction: Ph.D. Oscar B. Alonso Chil (b. 1930-d. 2021) was one of the physicians who stayed in Cuba after the triumph of the Revolution. He was a founder of the healthcare services for internal medicine and geriatrics, and made important contributions to medical teaching. Objective: To present the professional career of Oscar B. Alonso Chil as a physician and teacher of revolutionary Cuban medicine, through his life history. Methods: A descriptive and qualitative study was carried out, using the life history technique, focused on the professional aspect. For this purpose, a semistructured interview was conducted with the testimony witness as a fundamental source of information. The oral testimony was validated by reviewing the official documentation in his teaching file and the existing scientific literature related to the subject; in addition to interviews with his students and coworkers. Development: It was observed that he founded services, organized the teaching activity, supervised research, made publications and consultancies, and was a member of scientific boards and councils. He performed each of these activities with great commitment and unconditionality to his profession, which gave him great satisfaction with life. He achieved holding the highest distinctions for his work: second-degree specialist in Internal Medicine, as well as Full Professor, Faculty Consultant and Emeritus Professor of the University of Medical Sciences of Havana. Conclusions: Oscar B. Alonso Chil contributed to the development of internal medicine in Cuba during the revolutionary period. This professor represents a role model for students of medical sciences due to his professional and scientific prestige(AU)

Novel optical coherence tomography angiography biomarkers in the diagnosis and assessment of diabetic macular edema and diabetic macular ischemia in patients with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy

Purpose: The present study aims to determine the macular and choroidal optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) biomarkers in the assessment and monitoring of diabetic macular edema (DME) and diabetic macular ischemia (DMI) in patients with non?proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR). Methods: In this cohort study, a total of 176 eyes of 110 patients with NPDR were investigated at our institute over a period of 10 months. Eyes were divided into four groups based on the severity of NPDR. Each eye was subjected to OCTA (Topcon 3D OCT?1 Maestro2) macula 6 × 6 mm2 en face. It features IMAGEnet 6 software for dynamic viewing of OCTA and imaging data. Four OCTA biomarkers for the macula were identified: foveal avascular zone area (FAZ area), foveal avascular zone contour irregularity (FAZ?CI), capillary dropout areas (CDA), and perifoveal intercapillary areas (PICA). The choroidal OCTA biomarker was the number of choroidal circulation flow voids (CCFV). For all analyses, P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Increase in FAZ area and number of CDA were statistically significant (p < 0.0001) with an increase in central foveal thickness, suggesting a correlation of ischemic changes with an increase in DME. FAZ?CI, enlarged PICA, and CCFV were significantly associated with more severe NPDR patients. Conclusion: A correlation between DME and DMI in a patient of NPDR and its progression can be evaluated in a single visit. A unique feature of our study is it revealed novel diagnostic biomarkers of OCTA for DMI and DME.

Na+/K+-ATPase is a novel target to treat anxiety / 中国药理学与毒理学杂志

OBJECTIVE Na+/K+-ATPase(NKA)is a large membrane protein expressed universally in all cells.It is indispensable for the maintenance of ionic gradient.We previously reported that the dysfunction of this pump in neurons and astrocytes contributes to stroke and neurodegenerative diseases,respectively.However,its roles in the microglia and stress-related diseases are still unclear.METHODS Two classical models,chronic restraint stress(CRS)model and electronic foot shock(ES)model,were used to study the pathogenesis of anxi-ety in either NKAα1 global knockout(NKAα1 GKO)mice or NKA α1 conditional knockout(NKAα1 CKO)mice.Behavioral tests like open-field test,elevated plus maze,Morris water maze,novel object recognition test and gait imaging test were performed.A variety of molecular bio-logical methods were employed,including RNA sequenc-ing(RNA-seq)analyses,immunofluorescence and elec-trophysiological recordings etc.RESULTS NKAα1 defi-ciency had a broad impact on physical stress-induced anxiety-like behavior,but failed to exacerbate CRS induced memory deficits.Electrophysiology experiment showed that NKAα1 GKO and NKAα1 CKO mice exhibit-ed neuronal hyperexcitability under chronic stress.The underlying mechanisms may involve neuroinflammation,as NKAα1 deficiency exacerbated stress-induced microg-lia activation in vivo.Similarly,inhibition or downregula-tion of NKA α 1 aggravated LPS + ATP-induced inflam-mation in vitro.DR5-12D,a monoclonal antibody against the DR-region of NKAa1,improved stress-induced anxiety-like behavior through amelioration of the neuronal hyper-excitability and neurogenesis deficit in the ventral hippo-campus of mice.CONCLUSION NKA is closely related to neuroinflammation in microglia and DR-region of NKA a1 subunit may serve as a novel target to treat stress-induced anxiety.

Lamivudine-based two-drug regimens with dolutegravir or protease inhibitor: Virological suppression in spite of previous therapy failure or renal dysfunction

Abstract Background Two-Drug Regimens (2DR) have proven effective in clinical trials but real-world data, especially in resource-limited settings, is limited. Objectives To evaluate viral suppression of lamivudine-based 2DR, with dolutegravir or ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitor (lopinavir/r, atazanavir/r or darunavir/r), among all cases regardless of selection criteria. Patients and methods A retrospective study, conducted in an HIV clinic in the metropolitan area of São Paulo, Brazil. Per-protocol failure was defined as viremia above 200 copies/mL at outcome. Intention-To-Treat-Exposed (ITT-E) failure was considered for those who initiated 2DR but subsequently had either (i) Delay over 30 days in Antiretroviral Treatment (ART) dispensation, (ii) ART changed or (iii) Viremia > 200 copies/mL in the last observation using 2DR. Results Out of 278 patients initiating 2DR, 99.6% had viremia below 200 copies/mL at last observation, 97.8% below 50 copies/mL. Lamivudine resistance, either documented (M184V) or presumed (viremia > 200 copies/mL over a month using 3TC) was present in 11% of cases that showed lower suppression rates (97%), but with no significant hazard ratio to fail per ITT-E (1.24, p= 0.78). Decreased kidney function, present in 18 cases, showed of 4.69 hazard ratio (p= 0.02) per ITT-E for failure (3/18). As per protocol analysis, three failures occurred, none with renal dysfunction. Conclusions The 2DR is feasible, with robust suppression rates, even when 3TC resistance or renal dysfunction is present, and close monitoring of these cases may guarantee long-term suppression.

Quantitative assessment of choriocapillaris perfusion in patients with diabetic retinopathy using ultra-high-speed swept source optical coherence tomography angiography / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

AIM: To evaluate the characteristics of choriocapillary blood flow in different patients with diabetic retinopathy(DR)based on the measurement of choriocapillaris(CC)perfusion density(PFD)using ultra-high-speed swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography(SS-OCTA)METHODS: The cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 139 cases(139 eyes)who admitted to the Second People's Hospital of Hefei, including 115 DR cases(115 eyes)and 24 control cases(24 eyes). The color retinal images were graded according to the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study(ETDRS)scale, and the DR eyes were classified into non-DR group, nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy(NPDR)group, NPDR combined with diabetic macular edema(DME)group and proliferative diabetic retinopathy(PDR)group. The ultra-high-speed SS-OCTA was used to scan a 3mm×3mm region centered on the macular central fovea, the CC perfusion area was measured by the built-in software, and PFD was calculated. Multivariable linear regressions were used to evaluate the correlation between PFD of CC and DR degree.RESULTS: The degree of DR had a correlation with blood perfusion of CC after adjusting for various confounding factors. When compared to the control group, the PFD of CC in the central fovea of the NPDR group decreased by 9.358 units(95%CI -18.484～-0.232, P=0.045)and 9.284 units in the paracentral fovea(95%CI -18.487～-0.090, P=0.048); In the NPDR combined with DME group, the central fovea CC PFD decreased by 18.173 units(95%CI -28.583～-7.762, P=0.001), while the paracentral fovea decreased by 17.032 units(95%CI -27.521～-6.544, P=0.002); In the PDR group, the central fovea CC PFD decreased by 28.309 units(95%CI -39.978～-16.640, P&#x003C;0.001), while the paracentral fovea decreased by 25.841 units(95%CI -37.597～-14.085, P&#x003C;0.001).CONCLUSION: The macular perfusion can be objectively quantified by the measurement of CC PFD with ultra-high-speed SS-OCTA. The CC PFD in the macular region was significantly reduced in more advanced stages of DR. Furthermore, future research should focus on longitudinal studies in the causal relationship between CC perfusion and DR progression.

Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Hexue Mingmu Tablets in Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy and Retinal Vein Obstruction / 中国实验方剂学杂志

In order to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Hexue Mingmu tablets in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy（DR） and retinal vein obstruction（RVO）， and to provide a basis for the clinical treatment of ophthalmic diseases， this paper obtained randomized controlled trials（RCTs） of Hexue Mingmu tablets in the treatment of DR and RVO by searching Chinese and English electronic databases and trial registration platforms（up to September 13， 2022）. The risk of bias in the included studies was assessed using RoB2.0， and Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan5.4. A total of 35 RCTs involving a total sample size of 3 261 patients were included. Meta-analysis results showed that compared with conventional western medical treatment alone， the combination of Hexue Mingmu tablets with conventional western medical treatment improved patients' macular thickness｛mean difference（MD） =-39.83， 95% confidence interval（CI） ［-51.60， -28.06］， P<0.000 01｝， improved corrected visual acuity｛risk ratio（RR）dichotomous=1.09， 95% CI ［1.00， 1.18］， P=0.04； MDcontinuous variable=0.15， 95% CI ［0.13， 0.17］， P<0.000 01｝， increased effective rate of fundus symptom improvement（RR=1.26， 95% CI ［1.22， 1.30］， P<0.000 01）， improved hemorheology index｛standard mean difference（SMD）=-1.53， 95% CI ［-2.04， -1.01］， P<0.000 01｝， shortened improvement time of fundus symptoms（MD=-5.53， 95% CI ［-5.96， -5.09］， P<0.000 01）， and there was no significant difference on adverse events between the two groups. The results show that treatment of DR and RVO with Hexue Mingmu tablets may improve the macular thickness and hemorheology index of patients， which can significantly enhance the effect of corrected visual acuity and clinical efficiency， and shorten the time to symptom improvement. However， the original literature is of low quality and the pooled results have some limitations. Subsequent studies should try to use uniform standard assessment criteria and testing methods， focus on the rigor of study design and implementation， and pay attention to the key outcomes of this disease and the clinical safety of medication， so as to provide more reliable evidence to support this kind of clinical problems.

The Practical Basis and Scientific Connotation of the Great Anti-epidemic Spirit: Taking Dr. Zha’s Diary of Fighting the COVID-19 as an Example / 中国医学伦理学

The great anti-epidemic spirit is a magic weapon for the Chinese people to fight against the COVID-19. Taking the Dr. Zha’s Diary of Fighting the COVID-19 as an example to explore the practical basis and scientific connotation of the great anti-epidemic spirit is of great significance for telling Chinese stories and transmitting Chinese spirit. The anti-epidemic experience described in the book reflects the professional qualities of medical staff who are people-oriented and life first in the fight against the epidemic, the overall view of respecting science and precise prevention and control by various forces in society, and the overall pattern of national unity and shared destiny in China, vividly interprets the precious connotation of the new era medical and health professional spirit.

Clinical Value Evaluation of DR Corneal Suture Ring Localization and CT 3D Reconstruction Localization of Orbital Foreign Body / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

ObjectiveTo investigate the clinical value of DR corneal suture ring localization and CT 3D reconstruction localization of orbital foreign bodies. MethodsRetrospective analysis was performed on patients （51 cases） suspected of ocular foreign bodies admitted to our hospital from January 2016 to December 2020 At the same time， DR corneal suture ring localization and CT three-dimensional reconstruction localization of orbital foreign bodies were performed， and the detection rate of foreign bodies by the two methods was calculated to analyze the location of ocular foreign bodies. ResultsThere were 38 cases of intraorbital foreign body identified by DR corneal suture ring localization method， and 46 cases of intraorbital foreign body identified by CT three-dimensional reconstruction localization method. The accuracy of CT three-dimensional reconstruction localization method was 90.20%， which was higher than that of DR corneal suture ring localization method 74.51% （P<0.05）. Intraocular foreign bodies in 23 cases could be distinguished by DR corneal suture ring localization， and 25 cases by CT 3D reconstruction localization. The maximum diameter of intraocular foreign bodies that could be distinguished by CT 3D reconstruction localization was （2.65±0.14） mm. The diameter of intraspherical foreign body was （2.94±0.36） mm （P<0.05） lower than that which could be distinguished by DR corneal suture ring localization method. The results of DR corneal suture ring localization of orbital foreign body showed no difference compared with the results of CT 3D reconstruction localization （P>0.05）. Forty cases of high density images inside and outside the eye could be clearly distinguished by CT 3D reconstruction. By using DR corneal suture ring localization method， 23 cases were confirmed to be intraocular high-density shadows， and 15 cases could not be confirmed to be intraocular high-density shadows （P < 0.05）. ConclusionsFor the location of intraorbital foreign bodies， CT three-dimensional reconstruction can be used as a conventional method for locating ocular foreign bodies with high resolution and accuracy， and can detect fine metal particles inside the eyeball. Meanwhile， for a few small foreign bodies in the iris root， ciliary body and lateral suspension ligament， it is necessary to locate orbital foreign bodies with DR corneal suture ring.

The first successful cochlear implant in Latin America after severe aminoglycoside-induced ototoxicity in a Peruvian patient cured of extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis

Introduction: Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis is a significant public health problem for which drugs are used with many adverse effects. Among the devastating consequences of these diseases, there is a wide variation in the incidence of ototoxicity and hearing loss in patients with multidrug-resistant and extremely resistant tuberculosis. Cochlear implants may be indicated in patients with unilateral/severe bilateral hearing loss with no benefit from conventional hearing aids, but their use in patients with tuberculosis is rare. Case report: We present the first case of a right unilateral cochlear implant performed on a 34-year-old Peruvian patient who presented profound sensorineural hearing loss of cochlear origin. Conclusion: Cochlear implant surgery is an essential milestone in the treatment of patients with auditory sequelae of tuberculosis treatment. Close monitoring of possible complications of tuberculosis treatment should be strengthened in countries with a high incidence of multidrug-resistant and extremely resistant tuberculosis.

Introducción: La tuberculosis multidrogorresistente es un importante problema de salud pública para el que se utilizan fármacos con múltiples efectos adversos. Entre las devastadoras consecuencias de estas enfermedades, existe una amplia variación en la incidencia de ototoxicidad y pérdida auditiva en pacientes con tuberculosis multirresistente y extremadamente resistente. Los implantes cocleares pueden estar indicados en pacientes con pérdida auditiva unilateral/bilateral severa sin beneficio de los audífonos convencionales, pero su uso en pacientes con tuberculosis es raro. Reporte de un caso: Presentamos el primer caso de implante coclear unilateral derecho realizado a un paciente peruano de 34 años que presentaba hipoacusia neurosensorial profunda de origen coclear. Conclusión: La cirugía de implante coclear es un hito fundamental en el tratamiento de los pacientes con secuelas auditivas del tratamiento de la tuberculosis. Se debe fortalecer la vigilancia estrecha de las posibles complicaciones del tratamiento de la tuberculosis en los países con una alta incidencia de tuberculosis multirresistente y extremadamente resistente.

Treatment outcomes and its trends amongst drug - resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis patients treated under programmatic conditions in Bengaluru city (2017 – 2020)

Background: India is having 27% of the world’s drug resistant TB burden. To address this emerging public health concern PMDT services were rolled out in the year 2007 and the nationwide coverage was achieved in the year 2013. In India, MDR RR TB patients started on se cond - line treatment in the years 2018 and 2020 under PMDT had favorable treatment outcomes of 56% and 57% respectively. Therefore, th is study was conducted to determine the treatment outcomes in patients of DR TB & MDR RR TB in Bengaluru city Karnataka, In dia. Methods: This was a descriptive cross - sectional study using programmatic data among the notified TB cases during the year 2017 - 2020 under NTEP of Bengaluru city. Socio - demographic data, clinical characteristics and diagnostic data were studied. Data analysis was conducted in Python (version 3.9.4) to ascertain the treatment outcomes and its trend in the study area. Results: A total of 689 patients were identified as DR TB cases having resistance to any first line anti TB drug during the year 2017 - 2020 . The mean age of the DR TB patients was observed as 36.7 years (95% CI: 22.3 - 51.1). Among them 434(63.0%) were male, 254(36.9%) were female and 01(0.1%) were transgender. The study revealed the favourable treatment outcomes of 56.6% among the overall DR T B patients and 42.2% among the MDR RR TB patients in Bengaluru city. Conclusion: The study depicted trends of improvements in the successful treatment outcomes among overall DR TB patients from the year 2017 to 2020, but on the other hand the same among th e MDR RR TB patients is a cause of concern. The study highlights adopting a multipronged scheme focusing on End TB strategy by improving diagnostic capability, assuring high - quality treatment and averting drug resistance propagation among

Correlation between the distribution of peripheral blood monocyte subsets and the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis / 中华检验医学杂志

Objective:This work aims to assess the distribution of peripheral blood monocyte subsets, the expression level of the functional markers in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, and analyze the correlation between the above indexes and the onset of RA.Methods:Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were collected and isolated from 62 RA patients, 52 healthy control (HC) and 12 disease control group′s patients via density centrifugation. The enrolled patients were attended or underwent physical examination in East Hospital, Tongji University from June 2020 to December 2021. Monocytes could be classified into classical (CM), intermediate (IM) and non-classical (NCM). Then, the flow cytometry was performed to examine the distribution of monocyte subsets and the measure the expression level of human leukocyte antigen DR (HLA-DR), intracellular tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) in peripheral blood monocytes. The statistical methods in this study mainly include: Kruskal-Wallis H test, Chi-Square test, Mann-Whitney U test, Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed ranks test, Spearman correlation coefficient test and Logistic regression analysis. The diagnostic value of IM proportion in RA was analyzed by ROC curve. Results:The monocytes number and monocytes proportion in white blood cells were much higher in RA [0.40 (0.40, 0.50), 7.60% (5.97%, 8.53%)] and disease control [0.40 (0.40, 0.68), 8.20% (5.85%, 10.28%)] compared with HC [0.30 (0.30, 0.40), 5.80% (5.03%, 6.38%)] ( H=24.733, P<0.001; H=27.469, P<0.001). A statistic-significant difference was detected among the proportion of CM[85.49%(76.91%,89.21%),88.94%(86.36%,91.72%),90.26%(80.25%, 92.56%)],IM[11.65%(8.47%,17.89%),7.89%(5.36%,10.75%), 5.56%(4.17%, 8.27%)], NCM[2.22%(1.39%, 3.74%), 2.49%(1.74%, 4.66%), 5.13%(3.39%, 9.85%)] in RA group, HC group and disease control group ( H=11.389, P=0.003; H=20.815, P<0.001; H=10.640, P=0.005). The proportion of CM was lower in RA and the IM proportion was increased in RA( P=0.003; P=0.003). The intracellular TNF-α level of monocytes in all three groups revealed the trend that IM>NCM>CM. The intracellular TNF-α in IM of RA was positively associated with serum TNF-α ( r=0.376, P=0.041). The HLA-DR expression in IM subsets were higher than CM and NCM subsets in all RA,HC and disease control groups. The expression of HLA-DR of IM in RA group and disease control was higher than HC group [8 611.50 (6201.3, 9890.8), 10 295.0 (7 899.0, 13632.0), 6 278.00(4 057.8, 9522.0), H=10.495, P=0.005]. There were no correlations between the proportion of peripheral blood IM and clinical characteristics CRP ( r=0.119, P=0.359), RF ( r=0.204, P=0.112) and ESR ( r=0.153, P=0.236). Logistic regression analysis showed that the proportion of IM ( OR=1.169, 95% CI 1.003-1.363, P=0.046), CRP ( OR=1.277, 95% CI 1.000-1.631, P=0.050), RF ( OR=1.179, 95% CI 1.080-1.287, P<0.001) are positively correlated with RA onset. The area under ROC curve for diagnosis of RA with IM proportion was 0.687, and the 95% confidence interval was 0.590-0.784, P<0.001. Conclusions:The distribution of monocyte subsets in peripheral blood of RA patients is abnormal. The increase in the proportion of IM, the enhanced antigen-presenting ability, and the increased level of TNF-α secretion in RA patients may play an important role in the pathogenesis of RA.

Quality control analysis of test items based on Philips Digital Diagnost DR / 中国辐射卫生

@#<b>Objective</b> To explore the quality control results of Digital Diagnost digital radiography (DR), and also to analyze the differences in signal transfer characteristics (STP) of DR from different manufacturers, in order to provide a reference for quality control of testers and daily supervision of administrative staff. <b>Methods</b> According to WS 76—2020 “Specification for testing of quality control in medical X-ray diagnostic equipment”, the test items such as automatic exposure control (AEC) repeatability, AEC response, detector dose indication (DDI), STP, high-contrast resolution, and low-contrast resolution of Digital Diagnost DR were qualitatively controlled, and several common DRs on the market were selected to analyze their STP functional relationships. <b>Results</b> The baseline values of DDI, high-contrast resolution, and low-contrast resolution of Digital Diagnost DR were 19733, 2.8 Lp/mm, and H5 of image central pixel value, respectively; the quality control results of other test items met the requirements of WS 76—2020. The STP functional relationships of common DRs were mainly linear and logarithmic, but different models of DR from the same manufacturer might also have different STP functional relationships. <b>Conclusion</b> When testing some special test items of DR, attention should be paid to the influence of a variety of factors, while refining the test steps and condition settings for the test items. The simulation should be performed in accordance with the functional relationship provided by the manufacturer when analyzing the STP.

Consensual coital vaginal laceration in hypovolaemic shock: A report of two cases

Background:Certain life-threatening complications and morbidities may occur following consensual sexual intercourse which may not be commonly experienced in clinical practice. One of such complications is hypovolaemic shock resulting from profuse bleeding.AbstractMethods:Two cases of vaginal laceration complicated by hypovolaemic shock following consensual sexual intercourse are presented.Results:Both patients had resuscitation with intravenous fluid, blood transfusion and subsequent examination under anaesthesia with repair of laceration in theater. Post-operative recovery period was uneventful and they were both discharged after proper counselling. Conclusion:Bleeding from coital laceration could be life threatening. Prompt treatment should be instituted in such cases

Prevalence and determinants of Hepatitis C Virus Infection and Genotypes in Chronic Hemodialysis Patients in Kinshasa

Context and objective. The steady increase in the number of chronic hemodialysis patients in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) calls for improved management of those patients. The present study aimed to determine the frequency of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, the prevalent genotypes, and the risk factors associated with HCV in hemodialysis patients in Kinshasa (DR Congo). Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted from February to June 2018 in all hemodialysis centers in Kinshasa. Blood samples were collected from 127 chronic hemodialysis patients and tested for the presence of antibodies against HCV. The HCV genotype was identified by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT- PCR). Results. Twenty-two (17.3 %) patients were positive for anti-HCV antibodies, ranging from 0 % to 52.9 % in different centers. Genotype 4 was detected in 18/22 (81.8 %), followed by genotype 2 in 2/22 (9.1%), and both genotypes 2 and 4 in one patient (4.5%). One patient had an undetermined genotype (4.5 %). Having received at least 4 transfusions [7,21 (1,09- 10,61); p=0.040)], not being under EPO treatment [5,81(1,47-12,96); p=0.012)], being on hemodialysis for at least 14 months [3,63(1,60-5,05); p=0.035)]and being dialyzed in an overloaded center [2,06(0,83-5,86); p=0.073)] were associated with a greater risk of HCV infection. Conclusion. This high HCV prevalence (17.3 %) represents a substantial health burden in HD patients from Kinshasa, DR Congo. It is largely driven by the number of blood transfusions, the duration time in hemodialysis. Observations from the present study underscore the need of reducing the number of blood transfusions in people on dialysis through the administration of erythropoietin, given the unaffordable cost of HCV therapy for most individuals in DR Congo.

Contexte et Objectifs. Le nombre des patients hémodialisés en Afrique subsaharienne en constante augmentation ; justifiant de ce fait une meilleure prise en charge de ces patients. La présente étude détermine la prévalence de l'infection par le virus de l'hépatite C en en determinant les génotypes ainsi que les facteurs y associés dans ce groupe de patients. Méthodes. 127 patients hémodialisés chroniques ont subis des tests sérologiques à la recherche des anticorps anti-VHC dans plusieurs centres de Kinshasa de février à juin 2018. Le génotype viral a été déterminé par la RT-PCR. Résultats. La fréquence des anticorps anti-VHC a varié de 0 à 52,9 % dans ce groupe. Les génotypes le plus fréquents ont été le 4 (18/22) et le 2 (2/22) ; étant sumultanément rétrouvé chez un patient, et indéterminé chez un autre sujet. Avoir reçu au moins 4 transfusions [7,21 (1,09-10,61; p=0.040)], ne pas être sous EPO [5,81(1,47-12,96); p=0.012)], être en hémodialyse depuis au moins 14 mois [3,63(1,60- 5,05); p=0.035)] et être dialysé dans un centre surchargé [2,06 (0,83-5,86); p=0.073)] étaient associés à un risque plus élevé d'infection par le VHC. Conclusion. Ses principaux déterminants sont : le nombre des transfusions sanguines et la durée d'HD ; d'où la nécessité de réduire les transfusions sanguines chez les sujets dialysés par l'administration d'EPO, étant donné le coût prohibitif du traitement contre le VHC dans notre contexte

Identidad personal en niños y adolescentes: estudio cualitativo / Personal identity in children and adolescents: a qualitative study / Identidade pessoal em crianças e adolescentes: estudo qualitative

Resumen (analítico) La construcción de identidad personal es un proceso evolutivo. Escasas investigaciones estudian este proceso en la infancia. El objetivo de esta investigación es describir la construcción de identidad personal de niños y adolescentes entre 6 y 18 años, desde un enfoque constructivista evolutivo. Se realiza un análisis temático de narrativas autobiográficas escritas por 119 niños y adolescentes. Los resultados se organizaron en torno a tres dimensiones de la identidad personal: unidad de identidad, integración de identidad, integración con otros; observándose que desde la infancia hay un reconocimiento personal, luego se integran diferentes eventos vitales significativos y en la adolescencia se complejiza su construcción, incorporando mayor reflexión y aspectos ideológicos. Se discuten implicancias para favorecer un desarrollo adaptativo de la identidad en todas las edades, validando diversidad de opciones.

Abstract (analytical) Construction of personal identity is a developmental process. Few research investigates this process in children. The research objective is to describe the personal identity construction of children and adolescents between 6 and 18 years old, from a developmental constructivist approach. Thematic analysis of autobiographical narratives written by 119 children and adolescents is performed. Results were organized around the three personal identity dimensions: unity of self, integration of self and integration with others. Results show from childhood there is a personal recognition, then different significant life events are integrated, and in adolescense this construction becomes more complex, integrating more reflection and ideological aspects. Implications are discussed to promote an adaptive development of identity through lifespam, validating a diversity of options.

Resumo (analítico) A construção da identidade pessoal é um processo evolutivo. Poucas pesquisas investigam esse processo na infância. O objetivo desta pesquisa é descrever a construção da identidade pessoal de crianças e adolescentes entre 6 e 18 anos, a partir de uma abordagem construtivista evolutiva. É realizada uma análise temática das narrativas autobiográficas escritas por 119 crianças e adolescentes. Os resultados foram organizados em torno de três dimensões da identidade pessoal: unidade de identidade, integração de identidade, integração com os outros; e mostram que desde a infância há um reconhecimento pessoal, logo diversos acontecimentos significativos da vida são integrados, e na adolescência sua construção torna-se mais complexa, incorporando mais reflexão e aspectos ideológicos. As implicações para promover o desenvolvimento adaptativo da identidade em todas as idades são discutidas, validando a diversidade de opções.