DN Group Research Articles

Effects of dry needling on pain, pressure pain threshold and psychological distress in patients with mild to moderate hip osteoarthritis: Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial

ObjectiveTo determine the changes produced by dry needling in active myofascial trigger points in hip muscles compared to a sham needling on pain intensity, main pain area, pressure pain threshold and psychological distress in patients with hip osteoarthritis. DesignSecondary analysis of a single-centre, randomized, double-blinded, clinical trial. Intervention30 participants with mild to moderate hip osteoarthritis were randomly assigned to DN group (n = 15) or sham DN group (n = 15). DN group received three sessions of penetrating DN, and sham DN group received three sessions of non-penetrating DN in hip muscles.Main outcome measures: Pain intensity (Visual Analogue Scale), main pain area (body chart), pressure pain threshold (algometry), psychological distress (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) and self-reported improvement (Global Rate of Change) were measured before and after treatment. ResultsDN group showed statistically significant improvements with large effect sizes for pain intensity (p < 0.001; E.S: 2.7), pressure pain thresholds (p < 0.05; E.S: 1.3-1.8) and psychological distress (p = 0.002; E.S: 1.5) compared to sham DN group. The DN group described a self-reported improvement categorised as quite a bit, great or very great deal better (n = 12, 80%). No statistically significant differences were found between baseline and postintervention in the sham DN group in any variable (p > 0.05). ConclusionsThree sessions of dry needling were more effective than sham dry needling for improving pain intensity, pressure pain threshold and psychological distress in patients with mild to moderate hip osteoarthritis in the short term.

Kidney-targeted baicalin-lysozyme conjugate ameliorates renal fibrosis in rats with diabetic nephropathy induced by streptozotocin

BackgroundDiabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the most common and serious complications of diabetes, and is the most important cause of death for diabetic patients. Baicalin (BAI) has anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic activities, which play a role in attenuating insulin resistance and protecting the kidney. Moreover, cell-specific targeting of renal tubular cells is an approach to enhance drug accumulation in the kidney.MethodsForty-five Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups. A diabetes model was created using streptozotocin (STZ) intraperitoneally injection. The four groups included: Control group (n = 10), DN (n = 15), BAI treatment (BAI; n = 10) and BAI-LZM treatment (BAI-LZM; n = 10) groups. In the current study, the renoprotection and anti-fibrotic effects of BAI-lysozyme (LZM) conjugate were further investigated in rats with DN induced by STZ compared with BAI treatment alone.ResultsThe results suggest that BAI-LZM better ameliorates renal impairment, metabolic disorder and renal fibrosis than BAI alone in rats with DN, and the potential regulatory mechanism likely involves inhibiting inflammation via the nuclear factor-κB signaling pathway, inhibiting extracellular matrix accumulation via the transforming growth factor-β/Smad3 pathway and regulating cell proliferation via the insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1/IGF-1 receptor/p38 Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. BAI and the kidney-targeted BAI-LZM can utilize the body’s cytoprotective pathways to reactivate autophagy (as indicated by the autophagy markers mechanistic target of rapamycin and sirtuin 1 to ameliorate DN outcomes.ConclusionsOur data support the traditional use of S. baicalensis as an important anti-DN traditional chinese medicine (TCM), and BAI, above all BAI-LZM, is a promising source for the identification of molecules with anti-DN effects.

Transitioning to Del Nido cardioplegia for all-comers: the next switching gear?

BackgroundExclusive use of Del Nido cardioplegia administration in all adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery has been studied for operative, postoperative and myocardial protection outcomes.MethodsFrom November 2016 to October 2017, Del Nido cardioplegia was used in 131 consecutive patients (DN group). Using a propensity score, DN group was compared to 251 patients having received intermittent cold blood cardioplegia (CB group).ResultsPreoperative characteristics were similar in DN and CB groups. Operative outcomes were statistically different (p < 0.0001): cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time (DN 105.9 ± 46.5, CB 131.2 ± 38.8); aortic cross-clamp time (DN 80.8 ± 35.5, CB 102.2 ± 31.3); operative time (DN 203.1 ± 65.0, CB 241.5 ± 54.7); total cardioplegia volume (DN 1328 ± 879, CB 3773 ± 1226); and peak glycemia on CPB (DN 8.2 ± 2.3, CB 9.0 ± 1.8). No statistical differences were noted in intensive care unit stay, hospital stay and hospital death. Myocardial protection outcomes were similar: discharge left ventricular ejection fraction (DN 52 ± 11, CB 51 ± 10); Troponin levels at the end of the surgery (DN 871 ± 1623, CB 1958 ± 854), day 1 (DN 853 ± 1139, CB 993 ± 8234) and day 4 (DN 442 ± 540, CB 463 ± 317).ConclusionDel Nido cardioplegia use in all adult cardiac surgeries is associated with improved surgical efficiency. The design of larger trials including adults combined cardiac procedures and emergencies is needed.

Safety and Efficacy of Single Dose Del Nido Cardioplegia Solution in Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation- A Propensity Matched Study

Del Nido cardioplegia (DN) has recently become more in common use as a "single" dose cardioplegia in adult cardiac surgery. However, it is not well described in left ventricular assist device (LVAD) surgery. The purpose of this study was to summarize our clinical experience with single dose DN solution in LVAD implantation and to assess the safety and efficacy of our DN protocol by comparing with conventional cold whole blood cardioplegia (CWB). A total of 524 consecutive patients underwent LVAD implantation between July 2008 and August 2019. Among them, 137 patients who required aortic cross-clamp for concomitant cardiac procedures were included in this study. The DN protocol was to administer the initial dose as a single dose. CWB was given every 20 minutes. Propensity matching identified 40 matched pairs for analysis. Cross-clamp time was significantly shorter in the DN group compared with the CWB group (58± 20 min vs. 70± 33 min, p=0.0497). The retrograde cardioplegia technique was used in 6 (15.0%) patients in the DN group and 36 (90.0%) patients in the CWB group (p<0.0001). There were no significant differences in the rates of postoperative prolonged use of inotropes (>14 days) (DN: 3/40, 7.5% vs. CWB: 3/40, 7.5%, p=1), requiring postoperative right VAD (DN: 2/40, 5.0% vs. CWB: 2/40, 5.0%, p=1), and requiring blood transfusion (Table). Freedom from re-admission at 1 year was similar between two groups (DN: 69.6±7.7% vs. CWB: 74.3±7.5%, Log-Rank p=0.5522). Mid-term clinical outcomes in the patients undergoing LVAD implantation with the DN protocol was acceptable. This study showed the DN protocol was associated with shortened cross-clamp time and less frequent usage of the retrograde cannula technique.

Assessment and comparison of the antioxidant defense system in patients with type 2 diabetes, diabetic nephropathy and healthy people: A case–control study

Findings of previous studies in the field of antioxidant defense system in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), diabetic nephropathy (DM) are limited and conflicting. Therefore, we evaluated the antioxidant defense system status in type 2 diabetes patients, diabetic nephropathy and healthy subjects in Iranian population. This population-based case-control study was conducted in 2019 and included 30 individuals with T2DM and 30 patients with DN, as the case groups and 30 healthy subjects for the control group. Individuals entered to the study for case group were diagnosed as T2DM patients based on fast glucose blood tests (FGB) (≥126mg/dL) and HbA1 (≥6.5%). DN was defined based on these tests and macroalbuminuria (>300mg/day). Serum was carefully separated and antioxidant defense system status was estimated. Dietary intakes were evaluated by using a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Energy intake in control group was higher than case groups; BMI was higher in the DN group compared to the other groups. Significantly higher levels of MDA were observed in T2DM patients compared to control group in crude model (1.255 vs. 1.079nmol/L; P=0.006). The same results were shown after adjustment for potential confounders (1.256 vs. 1.085nmol/L; P=0.022). Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was less in case groups compared with control group; level of catalase (CTL) and superoxide dismutase enzymes comparisons showed that DN patients had higher level than control group, but these associations were not significant. We found that MDA levels were significantly higher in T2DM patients compared to control group. Level of TAC was less in case groups in comparison to controls. SOD and CTL levels were higher in DN compared to controls; these associations were not significant.

The potential mechanism of INHBC and CSF1R in diabetic nephropathy.

The aim of this study was to research the potential mechanism of INHBC and CSF1R in diabetic nephropathy. 30 SD rats were selected and randomly divided into Con group, Sham group, and DN group. In the DN group, intraperitoneal injection of the streptozotocin-citrate solution was conducted to construct the DN model. In the Sham group, intraperitoneal injection of equal citrate solution was conducted. The Con group did not do anything. After successful modeling, blood glucose, insulin, biochemical indexes, and levels of inflammatory cytokines in blood samples were detected. The expression levels of INHBC, CSF1R, apoptosis-related proteins and IGF-1 were detected by Western blot. MRNA expression levels of INHBC, CSF1R, IGF-1 and inflammatory cytokines were detected by qPCR. Compared with the Con group, the expression levels of blood glucose, insulin, biochemical indexes, INHBC, CSF1R, IGF-1, IL-6, TNF-α and Bcl2 increased in the DN group, while the expression levels of IL-10, Caspase 3, Caspase 9, and Bax decreased. INHBC mRNA was positively correlated with IGF-1 mRNA. CSF1R was negatively correlated with Caspase 3, Caspase 9, Bax, and IL-10, and positively correlated with IL-6, TNF-α, and Bcl2. NHBC and CSF1R induced the secretion of IL-6 and TNF-α, inhibited the production of IL-10, inhibited apoptosis of cells, and promoted the proliferation of renal cells during DN disease. Therefore, INHBC and CSF1R can be used as target objects of DN treatment strategies.

Accuracy of Computer-Aided Dynamic Navigation Compared to Computer-Aided Static Procedure for Endodontic Access Cavities: An in Vitro Study.

Purpose: To analyze the accuracy of two computer-aided navigation techniques to guide the performance of endodontic access cavities compared with the conventional access procedure. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 single-rooted anterior teeth were selected, which were randomly distributed into three study groups: Group A—guided performance of endodontic access cavities through computer-aided static navigation system (n = 10) (SN); Group B—guided performance of endodontic access cavities through computer-aided dynamic navigation system (n = 10) (DN); and Group C—manual (freehand) performance of endodontic access cavities (n = 10) (MN). The endodontic access cavities of the SN group were performed with a stereolithography template designed on 3D implant planning software, based on preoperative cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and a 3D extraoral surface scan, and endodontic access cavities of the DN group were planned and performed by the dynamic navigation system. After endodontic access cavities were performed, a second CBCT was done, and the degree of accuracy between the planned and performed endodontic access cavities was analyzed using therapeutic planning software and Student’s t-test. Results: Paired t-test revealed no statistically significant differences between SN and DN at the coronal (p = 0.6542), apical (p = 0.9144), or angular (p = 0.0724) level; however, statistically significant differences were observed between the two computer-aided navigation techniques and the MN group at the coronal (p < 0.0001), apical (p < 0.0001), and angular (p < 0.0001) level. Conclusion: Both computer-aided static and dynamic navigation procedures allowed accurate performance of endodontic access cavities.

Comparison of the operative and postoperative effects of del Nido and blood cardioplegia solutions in cardiopulmonary bypass surgery.

ObjectiveOur goal was to compare the operative and postoperative effects of del Nido cardioplegia (DN group) and blood cardioplegia (BC group) performed in cardiac surgery.MethodsA total of 83 patients were included, separated into DN group and BC group. The operative and postoperative effects of the two groups were compared for the first 24 hours until extubation. The operative and postoperative complete blood count (CBC), biochemical values and clinical parameters were compared.ResultsThe first control activated clotting time (ACT) levels in DN group patients were lower (P=0.003) during the operation. The amount of cardioplegia in DN group were lower than that in BC group (P=0.001). The pump outflow and postoperative lactate level of DN group were lower than those of BC group (P=0.005, P=0.018, respectively), as well as the amounts of NaHCO3 (P=0.006) and KCl (P=0.001) used during the operation. The same occurred with the first monocytes (Mo) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) levels in the postoperative intensive care unit (P=0.006, P=0.002). However, the first glucose level and the eosinophil (Eo) level were higher in DN group (P=0.011, P=0.047, respectively).ConclusionIn the operative evaluation, the amount of cardioplegia, the first ACT levels, the pump outflow lactate level and the amounts of NaHCO3 and KCl in DN group were lower. In postoperative evaluation, measured level of lactate, Mo and MCV in DN group were all lower; their glucose and Eo levels were higher.

Effects of HuoxueJiangtang decoction alone or in combination with metformin on renal function and renal cortical mRNA expression in diabetic nephropathy rats

Context HuoxueJiangtang decoction (ZY) is a traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of diabetes. Objective The protective effect of ZY on renal injury in diabetic nephropathy rats was investigated in this study. Materials and methods Fifty 4-week-old SPF Wistar male rats were selected to construct diabetic nephropathy model rats (DN) group by continuous high-fat feeding for 4 weeks, followed by a tail vein injection of 30 mg/kg streptozotocin for 1 week. The experimental rats were divided into six groups of 10 rats: normal (control), DN, DN + ZY, DN + metformin, DN + metformin + ZY, and DN + metformin + captopril (positive control) groups. Among the groups, 6.25 g/kg ZY, 250 mg/kg metformin, and 17.5 mg/kg captopril were given to the rats by gavage once a day for 16 weeks. Blood glucose, dietary behaviour, biochemical indicators, and gene expression changes were measured in each group. Results Metformin + ZY treatment significantly lowered blood glucose, water intake, urine total protein, urine albumin, urine volume, serum triglyceride, and serum cholesterol levels in the DN group. The pathological changes of kidney tissue showed that the DN + metformin + ZY group had a protective effect on kidney tissue damage. And ZY and metformin + ZY treatments repaired the expression of genes in the DN group. Discussion and conclusion The ZY and metformin combined treatment showed a clear therapeutic effect on kidney damage in DN. This study provides a potential mechanism for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy with ZY combined with metformin.

Comparison of Post Operative Outcomes Following Del Nido Cardioplegia Versus Howards Cardioplegia in Adult Cardiac Surgery at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences

This study compares post-operative outcomes for ionotropic support, defibrillator need and duration of hospital stay in adult patients of cardiac surgery following Del Nido cardioplegia versus Howard’s cardioplegia and also compare pre and post operative Cardiac enzymes and serum potassium levels, assessment of pre and post operative Arrthymias. It was an Observational study conducted at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences Islamabad Pakistan. Patients were divided into 2 groups. Group (A) patients were Del Nido cardioplegia and Group (B) patients were Howard’s cardioplegia. Data was collected by using non-probability Consecutive Sampling technique. 100 patients were enrolled in this study randomly allocating 50 to each study group. Results of the study show that Post-op CKMB level after 24 hours for Howard group was (127.5200±103.59069) and for DN group (67.3540±23.21292). Similarly post op Potassium level for Howard group was (4.9742±.77010) and for DN group was (4.5590±.65033), Duration of hospital stay for Howard’s group was (9.60±.857) and for DN group was (8.58±1.486). High ionotropic support was required in Howard’s group as compared to DN where it was mild to moderate. 40% patients required defibrillation in Howards as compared to DN with only 20%. It is concluded that Cardioplegia is intended for brief cardiac arrest, which is an important function during cardiopulmonary Bypass surgery. After comparing two cardioplegic solutions namely Del Nido and Howard’s cardioplegia. Our study concludes that Del-Nido cardioplegia provide better myocardial protection and less cross clamp and bypass time. Cardiac enzymes, serum potassium level and post-op arrthymias show better profile in Del-Nido as compared to Howard’s cardiolpegia. Our data clearly advocate the efficacy and safety of Del-Nido over Howard’s cardioplegia. It is very safe and effective as compared to Howards.

Effects of Huangkui Capsule on the Expression of SPARC in the Kidney Tissue of a Rat Model with Diabetic Nephropathy.

The objective of the research is to investigate the effects of Huangkui capsule on the expression of SPARC in the kidney tissues of diabetic nephropathy. SD rats were divided into three groups: normal control group, untreated DN group and HKC-treated DN group. The therapeutic effects and underlying molecular mechanism of HKC on DN rats induced by streptozotocin were evaluated by the levels of serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, 24-hour urinary protein and the expression of SPARC. Pathological changes in kidney tissues were observed through hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Moreover, western blot and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were applied to detect the variation of SPARC. This study was performed to investigate the effects of HKC on DN in SD rats model and its molecular mechanism. Our results showed that the rats treated with HKC had an improved general state and reduced creatinine, blood urea nitrogen and 24-hour urinary protein levels. The deterioration of renal function was delayed due to treatment with HKC. HE staining was utilized to observe that HKC can improve histopathological findings in the kidney tissues of DN rats, including kidney fibrosis. Results of western blot and qRT-PCR showed that HKC can inhibit the expressions of SPARC in the rat model of DN. The present findings demonstrated that HKC inhibited SPARC level and had significant therapeutic effects on DN.

P-Coumaric acid alleviates experimental diabetic nephropathy through modulation of Toll like receptor-4 in rats

AimsDiabetic nephropathy (DN) is responsible for the occurrence of 30–47% of the incident cases of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) worldwide. DN is a chronic inflammatory disorder, which results from hyperglycemia-induced alterations and leads to renal fibrosis and ESRD. Toll like receptor-4 (TLR-4) participates in regulation of inflammatory response through controlling of innate immune system. P-Coumaric Acid (P-CA) is a natural hydroxycinnamic acid derivative and is widely present in vegetables, fruits, mushrooms and cereals. This study aimed to explore the renoprotective effect of P-CA, as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant natural compound, against experimental DN. MethodsDN was induced by single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (45 mg/kg) in rats. In kidney homogenate, levels of TLR-4, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) were measured using ELISA technique. Also, kidney collagen content was determined colorimetrically. Key findingsOral administration of P-CA (100 mg/kg) for 8 weeks significantly alleviated the DN. P-CA significantly reduced serum concentrations of glucose, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and reduced protein content in urine. Also, P-CA significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and significantly reduced kidney contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), TLR-4, IL-6, TGFβ1 and collagen when compared with DN group. Moreover, P-CA significantly improved DN-induced histopathological abnormalities. SignificanceP-CA confers protection against the progression of DN. This renoprotective effect can be attributed to its ability to decrease the generation of inflammatory and fibrotic cytokines in addition to restoring oxidant/antioxidant balance through its ability to down-regulate TLR-4 activation.

Comparative Analysis of Dorsal Nerve Transfer vs Dorsal Neurectomy in Morton’s Neuroma

Category:Lesser Toes, Midfoot/ForefootIntroduction/Purpose:Comparative analysis of Dorsal Nerve Transfer and Dorsal Neurectomy in Surgical management of Morton’s NeuromaMethods:This clinical audit was conducted on patients who had undergone surgery for Morton’s neuroma (MN) between 2002 and 2014. Data was collected using an in-depth review of patients’ case-notes. During the period studied, there were a total of 77 patients, 4 the DNT and 40 in the DN groups. The key indication for surgery in all cases reviewed was failure of the condition to improve using conservative methods. A telephonic survey with Primary outcome measure being Coughlin’s Overall patient’s satisfaction criteria and secondary outcome measures were resolution of sensory symptoms and any footwear restrictions.Results:The results of this clinical study shows excellent to good results with the Dorsal nerve transfer group (84%) and Dorsal neurectomy (80%). There were poor results in 11% in the DNT group and 15% in the DN group.Key advantages of Dorsal nerve transfer are better resolution of sensory symptoms in the toes (82%) when compared to Dorsal Neurectomy (65%). 7% reported Nov change and 11% were worse after surgery. 20% had no change and 15% were worse following surgery in DN group. Around 83% had no restriction wearing any footwear in the DNT group when compared to 80%. 17% in the DNT group and 20% were in the DN group wore modified or shoes with no heels.Conclusion:In general there is no significant difference in the outcome of the two surgery all procedures. Key advantages of Dorsal nerve transfer is better resolution of sensory symptoms in the toes (82%) when compared to Dorsal Neurectomy (65%). Around 83% in DNT group and 80% in DN group had no restriction wearing any footwear gain is almost similar in both groups in the DNT group. Whilst Dorsal nerve transfer is a slightly longer procedure than Dorsal neurectomy as some problems were encountered relating to mobilising the nerve due to overlying prominent blood vessels or nerve anomalies.

Macrophage phenotype and its relationship with renal function in human diabetic nephropathy

This study aimed to examine the macrophage phenotype and its relationship to renal function and histological changes in human DN and the effect of TREM-1 on high-glucose-induced macrophage activation. We observed that in renal tissue biopsies, the expression of CD68 and M1 was apparent in the glomeruli and interstitium, while accumulation of M2 and TREM-1 was primarily observed in the interstitium. The numbers of CD68, M1, and M2 macrophages infiltrating in the DN group were increased in a process-dependent manner compared with the control group, and the intensities of the infiltrates were proportional to the rate of subsequent decline in renal function. M1 macrophages were recruited into the kidney at an early stage (I+IIa) of DN. The M1-to-M2 macrophage ratio peaked at this time, whereas M2 macrophages predominated at later time points (III) when the percentage of M1/M2 macrophages was at its lowest level. In an in vitro study, we showed that under high glucose conditions, macrophages began to up-regulate their expression of TREM-1, M1, and marker iNOS and decreased the M2 marker MR. However, the above effects of high-glucose were abolished when TREM-1 expression was inhibited by TREM-1 siRNA. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that there was a positive correlation between the M1/M2 activation state and the progress of DN, and TREM-1 played an important role in high-glucose-induced macrophage phenotype transformation.

Added Value of Gluteus Medius and Quadratus Lumborum Dry Needling in Improving Knee Pain and Function in Female Athletes With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial

ObjectiveTo compare the effects of exercise therapy alone and exercise therapy plus gluteus medius (GM) and quadratus lumbarum (QL) dry needling on pain and function in female athletes with patellofemoral pain (PFP). DesignSingle-blind randomized controlled trial with follow-up. SettingPhysiotherapy clinic. ParticipantsConvenience sample of female athletes with PFP (N=40), who were randomly assigned to the exercise therapy (Ex group) or exercise-therapy+dry needling (Ex+DN group) group. InterventionsThe Ex group received exercise therapy for 4 weeks, and the Ex+DN group received exercise therapy in combination with dry needling directed at GM and QL trigger points for 4 weeks. Main Outcome MeasuresIn all participants, pain intensity, function (Kujala score, modified star excursion balance test, step-down test), and QL and GM pressure pain threshold (PPT) were recorded at baseline and at 4 and 6 weeks after the start of treatment. Analysis of variance (2 groups×3 times) was used to compare within- and between-group differences. ResultsThe group versus time interaction effect was significant for all variables (P<.05). Both groups showed significant improvements in pain, function, and PPT at weeks 4 and 6 compared to baseline (P<.05). Between-groups comparisons showed significantly greater improvements in pain, function, and PPT in the Ex+DN group (P<.05). ConclusionsTargeting intervention to treat trigger points in the GM and QL muscles combined with exercise therapy had superior beneficial effects compared to exercise alone in managing PFP. Therefore, adding GM and QL muscle dry needling to exercise therapy may be advisable to enhance the effects of PFP rehabilitation.

Expression analysis of microRNAs and their target genes during experimental diabetic renal lesions in rats administered with ginsenoside Rb1 and trigonelline.

Purpose: To appraise the curative effect of ginsenoside Rb1 and trigonelline in diabetic nephropathy and to analyze the expression analysis of microRNAs and their target genes during experimental diabetic renal lesions in rats. Methods: Wistar rats were made diabetic by intraperitoneal injection of 55 mg/kg streptozotocin. According to their fasting blood glucose values and initial body weight, diabetic rats were assigned to specific groups and treated as follows: DN group (tap water, n = 10), A group (ginsenoside Rb1, 40 mg/kg, n = 10), B group (trigonelline, 20 mg/kg, n = 10) and the C group (ginsenoside Rb1 and trigonelline, 60 mg/kg, m(ginsenoside Rb1) : m (trigonelline) = 2:1, n = 10). The control group was treated with tap water (n = 10). All rats were gavaged with drugs or tap water once daily for 12 weeks. Results: Renal dysfunction, oxidative stress, and pathological alteration were significantly alleviated by a combination of ginsenoside Rb1 and trigonellin (C group). Some miRNAs were expressed differentially in Con, DN, A and C groups. Results of immunohistochemistry and western blotting showed that Wnt and β-catenin were expressed differentially in Con, DN, and C groups. Conclusion: Ginsenoside Rb1 and trigonelline could prevent the development of diabetic renal lesions by regulating the expression of miR-3550 and further associating with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

Effects of dry needling in HIP muscles in patients with HIP osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial

BackgroundDry needling (DN) in active myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) is effective to reduce pain, increase range of motion (ROM) and improve physical function in different musculoskeletal disorders. However, there is a lack of studies evaluating the effects of DN in active MTrPs in hip osteoarthritis (OA). ObjectiveTo determine the short-term effects of DN on pain, hip ROM and physical function in patients with hip OA. DesignDouble-blind randomized controlled trial. MethodsThirty patients with unilateral hip OA were randomized into two groups: DN group and sham group. Participants received three treatment sessions. The treatment was applied in active MTrPs of the iliopsoas, rectus femoris, tensor fasciae latae and gluteus minimus muscles. Pain intensity (visual analogic scale), passive hip ROM (universal goniometer and digital inclinometer) and physical function (30s chair-stand test and 20m walk test) were assessed at baseline and after the three treatment sessions. ResultsThere was decreased pain intensity, increased hip ROM, and improved physical function following the DN treatment. These improvements were statistically significant (p < 0.05) compared to the sham group. The sham group had increased pain intensity and decreased hip ROM (p < 0.05). ConclusionPain, hip ROM, and physical function improved after the application of DN in active MTrPs of the hip muscles in patients with hip OA.

Correlation between SEPS1 gene polymorphism and type 2 diabetes mellitus: A preliminary study.

BackgroundThe protein encoded by the selenoprotein S gene is considered to be an anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant protein and is involved in a variety of diseases. Therefore, we want to study the distribution characteristics of this gene in Chinese diabetic population.MethodsA total of 170 patients with DM (including 100 patients with T2DM and 70 patients with diabetic nephropathy [DN]) and 100 healthy controls (HC) were selected from Haikou People's Hospital (China) between January 2017 and July 2017. The polymorphisms of three SEPS1 genes (SNP ID: rs4965814, rs28665122, and rs34713741) were measured by massARRAY method, while the polymorphisms of SEPS1 genes (SNP ID: rs4965373) were detected by Sanger sequencing.ResultsComparing three groups, the results were the following: (a) There was a significant difference in the genotype and allele distribution of rs34713741 between DN group and HC group and between T2DM group and DN group; For this gene locus, the risk of diabetic nephropathy in healthy individuals with T allele was 0.6 times higher than that in individuals with GG genotype (OR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.46 ~ 0.77). (b) There was a significant difference in the distribution of rs4975814 genotype between DN group and HC group; for this gene locus, the risk of diabetic nephropathy in healthy individuals with T allele was 2.71 times higher than that in individuals with GG genotype (OR = 2.71, 95% CI: 1.66 ~ 4.45).ConclusionWe conclude that rs34713741 (GT + TT) may be a protective gene for DN and the rs4975814 (GT + TT) may be a susceptibility gene for DN.

First Argentine Experience with Del Nido Cardioplegia in Adults. Comparison with Buckberg Cardioplegia

Background: Traditionally, Buckberg cardioplegic solution is used for cardiovascular interventions in adult patients requiring cardiopulmonary bypass, whereas Del Nido solution is more commonly used in pediatric cardiac surgery. This is the firstArgentine report of Del Nido cardioplegia in adult patients.Methods: From November 2016 to March 2018, 267 cardiac surgeries were performed by the same surgical team in two cardiovascularsurgery centers. Among the total number of patients undergoing these surgeries, 50 received Del Nido cardioplegia(DN group) and were compared with a homogeneous group of 50 patients receiving Buckberg cardioplegia (BK group).Results: Average total operative, cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic cross-clamp times (128.80 min, 70.83 min and 55 min,respectively, in the DN group, and 167.78 min, 80.7 min and 64.71min, in the BK group) were statistically significant betweengroups (p=0.001, p=0.0032 and p=0.0004, respectively). Comorbidities and type of valve surgery were similar in both groupsConclusions: Del Nido cardioplegia can be used in adult patients with excellent results, allowing to significantly shorten operative,aortic cross-clamp and cardiopulmonary bypass times, with all the benefits these lower times entail.

Elevated serum preptin concentrations in patients with diabetic nephropathy

Preptin is a peptide synthesized and secreted accompanied with insulin from pancreatic β cells. Here, we tested the hypothesis that serum preptin concentrations are correlated with diabetic nephropathy (DN). Our...