MA Group Research Articles

Antiarrhythmic and proarrhythmic effects of subcutaneous nerve stimulation in ambulatory dogs

High output subcutaneous nerve stimulation (ScNS) remodels the stellate ganglia and suppresses cardiac arrhythmia. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that long duration low output ScNS causes cardiac nerve sprouting and increases plasma norepinephrine concentration and the duration of paroxysmal atrial tachycardia (PAT) in ambulatory dogs. We prospectively randomized 22 dogs (11 males and 11 females) into 5 different output groups for 2 months of ScNS: 0 mA (sham) (n = 6), 0.25 mA (n = 4), 1.5 mA (n = 4), 2.5 mA (n = 4), and 3.5 mA (n = 4). As compared with baseline, the changes in the durations of PAT episodes per 48 hours were significantly different among different groups (sham, -5.0 ± 9.5 seconds; 0.25 mA, 95.5 ± 71.0 seconds; 1.5 mA, -99.3 ± 39.6 seconds; 2.5 mA, -155.3 ± 87.8 seconds; and 3.5 mA, -76.3 ± 44.8 seconds; P< .001). The 3.5 mA group had a greater reduction in sinus heart rate than did the sham group (-29.8 ± 15.0 beats/min vs -14.5 ± 3.0 beats/min; P = .038). Immunohistochemical studies showed that the 0.25 mA group had a significantly increased while 2.5 mA and 3.5 mA stimulation had significantly reduced growth-associated protein 43 nerve densities in both atria and ventricles. The plasma norepinephrine concentrations in the 0.25 mA group was 5063.0 ± 4366.0 pg/mL, which was significantly higher than that in the other groups of dogs (739.3 ± 946.3; P = .009). There were no significant differences in the effects of simulation between males and females. In ambulatory dogs, low output ScNS causes cardiac nerve sprouting and increases plasma norepinephrine concentration and the duration of PAT episodes while high output ScNS is antiarrhythmic.

Influence of electroacupuncture of "Zhongwan" (CV12) and "Zusanli" (ST36) in different combinations of stimulating strength and sequence on intragastric pressure in normal rats

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) of "Zhongwan" (CV12) and "Zusanli" (ST36) in different combinations of stimulating parameters on intragastric pressure (IGP) in normal rats so as to explore their best combinations for promoting gastrointestinal mobility. A total of 90 male SD rats were randomly divided into 6 EA groups：CV12-1 mA＋ST36-1 mA, CV12-1 mA＋ST36-2 mA, CV12-1 mA＋ST36-4 mA, ST36-1 mA＋CV12-1 mA, ST36-2 mA＋CV12-1 mA, and ST36-4 mA＋CV12-1 mA which the first acupoint was stimulated first, followed by the second in each group (n＝15 rats/group). Before (1 min), and 0-30 s, 30-60 s, 60 -90 s, and 90-120 s during EA stimulation of the left ST36 or CV12 first or later, the IGP was measured via an inserted intragastric balloon, a connected pressure transducer and an amplifier. Changes of the IGP were analyzed using 2×3×4 factorial design. 1) During 0-30 s, EA-CV12 showed an obvious inhibitory effect on IGP(P<0.05) while EA-ST36 showed a mild exciting effect (P>0.05). 2) Compared with the IGP level of 0-30 s, the IGP levels of 30-120 s were significantly decreased in all the groups (P<0.01). 3) In the CV12-1 mA/ST 36-1 mA groups, only the IGP level of 0-30 s was affected by the EA-stimulating order (P<0.05). In the CV12-1 mA/ST36-2 mA groups, both the IGP levels during 0-30 s and 90-120 s were obviously affected by EA-stimulating sequence. In the CV12-1 mA/ST36-4 mA groups, the IGP level during 0-120 s was affected by EA-stimulating order. 4) Only in the condition of EA-CV12 stimulating first and EA-ST36 second and at 4 mA, the reduction effect of IGP of EA-CV12 was antagonized. There are marked interaction effects between the EA strength and acupoint EA stimulating sequence, and between the time course and acupoint EA stimulating sequence (P<0.01), but no significant interaction effects were found between the time course and stimulating strength, and among the EA stimulating strength, time course and acupoint EA stimulating sequence (P>0.05). Simultaneous EA stimulation of ST36 and CV12 has an antagonistic effect on IGP in normal rats, which is affected by the stimulating sequence, stimulating strength and time course.

Bonding Evaluation Between Nanotube by Anodic Oxidation and Machined Dental Titanium Implant in Beagle Dog.

This study is to evaluate the bonding test between nanotube surface and machined dental titanium implant during the clinical procedure in beagle dog. A total of 24 screw-shaped implants (4 mm in diameter and 8.5 mm in length) were used. The implants were classified into 2 groups (n = 12): machined surface (M group) and nano surface which is nanotube formation on the machined surface (MA group). Anodic oxidation was performed at a 20 V for 10 min with 1 M H₃PO₄ and 1.5 wt% HF solutions. The implant were installed on beagle dog's humerus. After 4 and 12 weeks later, the beagle dog is sacrificed and the implant were removed with torque force. The removed implant was evaluated by SEM and EDX to observe the implant surface and nanotube's deformation. By investigating removed implant surfaces using SEM and EDX, M group was partially covered with bone, and MA groups were completely covered with bone. Nanotube was not shown any deformity. It indicated that nanotube showed good bonding stability with dental titanium implant.

Low levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate are associated with the risk of developing cardiac autonomic dysfunction in elderly subjects.

To assess the relationships between serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) levels and heart rate variability (HRV) among different age groups. Forty-five healthy men were divided into 3 groups: young age (YA; 20-39 yrs; n = 15), middle age (MA; 40-59 yrs; n = 15) and old age (OA; ≥ 60 yrs; n = 15). Hemodynamic parameters, linear analyses of HRV and concentrations of cortisol and DHEA-S were measured at rest. The OA group presented a higher resting heart rate (84.3 ± 4.6 bpm) than the YA group (72.0 ± 4.4 bpm; p < 0.05). The YA group showed an attenuated variance of HRV (2235.1 ± 417.9 ms2) compared to the MA (1014.3 ± 265.2 ms2; p < 0.05) and OA (896.3 ± 274.1 ms2; p < 0.05) groups, respectively. The parasympathetic modulation of HRV was lower in both the MA (244.2 ± 58.0 ms2) and OA (172.8 ± 37.9 ms2) groups in comparison with the YA group (996.0 ± 255.4 ms2; p < 0.05), while serum DHEA-S levels were significantly lower in both the MA (91.2 ± 19.6 mg/dL) and OA (54.2 ± 17.7 mg/dL) groups compared to the YA group (240.0 ± 50.8 mg/dL; p < 0.05). A positive correlation between lower serum concentrations of DHEA-S and attenuated variance of HRV (r = 0.47, p = 0.031), as well as lower serum concentrations of DHEA-S and decreased parasympathetic modulation of HRV (r = 0.54, p = 0.010), were found. The present study demonstrated that the decline of plasma DHEA-S is associated with reduced cardiac autonomic modulation during the aging process.

Effects of manual acupuncture combined with donepezil in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

To explore whether combined therapy with donepezil and acupuncture is better than treatment with donepezil or acupuncture individually in a rat model of Alzheimer's disease. In this study, we randomly divided 40 7.5-month-old senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) male mice into four groups: SAMP8, SAMP8+D, SAMP8+MA and SAMP8+D+MA. An additional 10 7.5-month-old SAMR1 male mice were included as a healthy control group (SAMR1). Mice in the SAMP8+D group were given donepezil at a dose of 0.65 µg/g/day; mice in the SAMP8+MA group underwent manual acupuncture at GV20, GV26 and Yintang for 20 min per day; mice in the SAMP8+D+MA received both donepezil and manual acupuncture; and mice in the SAMR1 and SAMP8 groups underwent restraint only to control for the effects of handling. After the 15-day treatment, the Morris water maze test, micro-PET(positron-emission tomography), H&E (haematoxylin and eosin) staining, and immunohistochemistry were used to study the differences between donepezil (SAMP8+D), acupuncture (SAMP8+MA), and donepezil combined with acupuncture (SAMP8+D+MA) therapy for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. We found that, compared with the untreated SAMP8 group, donepezil, manual acupuncture, and combined therapy with donepezil and manual acupuncture all improved spatial learning and memory ability, the level of glucose metabolism in the brain, and the content of Aβ amyloid in the cortex. Moreover, combined therapy outperformed treatment with donepezil or acupuncture individually in the SAMP8 mice. This study shows that the combination of manual acupuncture and donepezil in an Alzheimer's disease animal model is superior to acupuncture and donezepil alone. However, randomised controlled trials should be undertaken to clarify the clinical efficacy of combination therapy.

Azoospermic infertility is associated with altered expression of DNA repair genes

Compelling evidence suggest that germs cells are predominantly sensitive to DNA damaging agents in comparison to other cells. High fidelity DNA repair in testicular cells thus becomes indispensable to preserve the genomic integrity for passing on to the progeny. Compromised DNA repair machinery in the testicular cells may result in impaired spermatogenesis and infertility. It remains unclear if the alterations in the expression of DNA repair genes correlate with azoospermia and male infertility. In the present study, 54 non-obstructive azoospermic infertile patients with hypospermatogenesis (HS, n = 26), maturation arrest (MA, n = 15), Sertoli cell only syndrome (SCOS, n = 13) and 14 controls with obstructive azoospermia, but normal spermatogenesis were recruited. Expression profiling of 84 DNA repair genes in testicular biopsy samples was performed using PCR array. Out of 84 genes, 27, 64 and 28 genes showed >5 fold down-regulation in the HS, MA and SCOS groups, respectively. On the basis of differential expression and their functional significance in spermatogenesis, ten genes (MSH2, BRIP1, CCNH, LIG4, MGMT, NTHL1, PMS1, DMC1, POLB and XPA) were selected for validation of transcript levels in a higher number of cases using RT-PCR, which corroborated the findings of array. Four genes (MSH2, LIG4, PMS1 and DMC1) were analyzed for protein levels using immunohistochemistry, which further validated the loss of DNA repair gene expression. Caspase-3 immunostaining showed that the loss of DNA repair correlated with increased testicular apoptosis in patients. Maturation arrest showed the highest apoptotic index with maximum number of downregulated genes. We conclude that the loss of DNA repair genes expression in testis correlates with increased apoptosis, azoospermia and infertility.

Relation between processing facial identity and emotional expression in typically developing school-age children and those with Down syndrome

The main purposes of this research were to examine the relation between the processing of face identity and emotion expressions and then discern the significance of emotional expressions using Bruce et al. tasks. Two studies were conducted. Study 1 examined 225 typically developing (TD) children age 4 to 12. Results suggested that early recognition of complete faces and interpretation of emotional expression might depend on local processing abilities, while the recognition of masked faces and emotion expression matching seemed to share configural processing. Study 2 compared 22 children with Down syndrome (DS) to two TD groups matched on mental age (MA group) and chronological age (CA group). Results showed that children with DS processed the identity of complete faces (local processing) similarly to the MA and CA groups. In contrast, their performances for masked faces (configural processing) indicated a developmental delay as they were only comparable to the MA group. Children with DS were also able to identify the emotion expressions according to labels as well as the two control groups, while they had more difficulties on the matching condition. Furthermore, specific difficulties in processing the surprise expression were observed, rather than general difficulties in encoding emotion expressions. Finally, their performances on emotion matching tasks seemed to be supported by local information processing, which might explain their lower scores compared to CA controls that mainly used configural information. These results could aid in the development of targeted interventions for DS to improve their social skills.

An assessment of the survival impact of multimodal anesthesia/analgesia technique in adults undergoing cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy: a propensity score matched analysis

Background: Studies suggest volatile anesthetics and opioids may enhance the malignant potential of cancer cells. The objective of this single institution retrospective study was to evaluate the survival impact of a multimodal opioid-sparing nonvolatile anesthetic technique (MA) in a group of patients who had undergone cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS-HIPEC) for appendiceal carcinomatosis.Methods: Propensity score matching (PSM) and Cox proportional hazard models were used to compare the survivals of patients who received MA (MA group), to those who received volatile-opioid anesthesia (volatile-opioid group).Results: Of the 373 patients, 110 (29%) were in the MA group and 263 (71%) in the volatile-opioid group. The MA group was older (mean ± standard deviation (SD): 55 ± 11 versus 53 ± 10 years, p = .035) and had more patients with ASA scores 3 or 4 (90% versus 81%, p = .032), and those with high grade tumors (18% versus 12%, p = .009). Intraoperative opioid consumption was lower in the MA group (mean morphine equivalents ± SD: 13 ± 10 versus 194 ± 789, p < .0001). After PSM, 107 patients remained in each group. In the adjusted Cox proportional hazards model after PSM, MA was not associated with improved progression free survival (PFS) (HR 1.45, 95% CI [0.94–2.22], p = .093) or overall survival (OS) (HR 1.66, 95% CI [0.86–3.20], p = .128), when compared to volatile-opioid anesthesia.Conclusions: In this retrospective study, a multimodal opioid-sparing nonvolatile anesthetic approach was not associated with improved survival.Precis’ statement: In this study of patients undergoing major cancer surgery, the use of multimodal anesthetic and analgesic agents, while avoiding volatile anesthetics and minimizing opioid use was not associated with improved survival.

The role of the metal-bound N–H functionality in Noyori-type molecular catalysts

Noyori-type catalysts have found numerous applications in research and industrial settings. The central mechanistic component of such catalysts is a metal centre coordinated to a N–H moiety. This amino moiety has traditionally been thought to participate directly in catalytic reactions by serving as a H+ donor, with the resulting amido group then serving as a H+ acceptor. This traditional understanding has been supplanted by more recent studies that instead suggest that the N–H group(s) (or N–Ma group(s) obtained in the reaction with a base of an alkali metal Ma) serve to stabilize rate-determining transition states through non-covalent N–X···O interactions (X = H or Ma). Thus, N–X bonds are actually not cleaved or formed in many catalytic cycles. This Review describes examples of metal–ligand bifunctional catalysts relevant to reactions involving H2 or its equivalents, emphasizing systems that have been applied in industry. Subsequently, a summary of our present understanding of the Noyori–Ikariya and Noyori reaction mechanisms is presented, which we compare to topical related reactions such as MeOH dehydrogenation, ester and carboxamide hydrogenation and the dehydrogenative coupling of primary alcohols with other alcohols and amines. This mechanistic understanding allows us to identify the design principles that may potentially afford improved molecular catalysts and that may unravel a distinct mechanism for H2 production by the diiron hydrogenase enzymes. Noyori-type catalysts perform (de)hydrogenation and transfer (de)hydrogenation reactions at a metal centre coordinated to a N–H moiety. Understanding how these metal–ligand bifunctional catalysts operate enables us to design better catalysts for these reactions and for related conversions such as alcohol dehydrogenations, ester or carboxamide hydrogenations and dehydrogenative coupling of primary alcohols with other alcohols or amines.

The evolution of the Arabian-Nubian Shield and survival of its zircon U-Pb-Hf-O isotopic signature: A tale from the Um Had Conglomerate, central Eastern Desert, Egypt

In this study, we present in situ U-Pb, Hf and O isotopic analyses of detrital zircon grains from the Um Had Conglomerate from the Wadi Hammamat area in the central Eastern Desert of Egypt. The youngest detrital age population is 625 Ma, which gives an estimate to the maximum depositional age of the Um Had Conglomerate. Based on their Hf isotopic signature and U-Pb ages, detrital zircons fall into two distinct groups: a 625–680 Ma group and a 720–840 Ma group, with minor early Tonian-Stenian and Paleoproterozoic-Archean populations. These groups are consistent with derivation from local sources in the central Eastern Desert of Egypt. The 720–840 Ma group is characterized by exclusively positive εHf(t) values and it reflects the main juvenile Tonian intra-oceanic island arc stage characterizing the formation of the Arabian-Nubian Shield. On the contrary, εHf(t) values of the 625–680 Ma zircon group range between −17.5 and +12.8, which indicates involvement of Archean-Paleoproterozoic crust during the Cryogenian-Ediacaran magmatism associated with the accretion and assembly of the arc materials. The transition from juvenile intra-oceanic island arc stage to mixed juvenile magma and older crustal materials during the arc assembly stage in the central Eastern Desert is supported by the increase in δ18O values of detrital zircons from dominant mantle-like values in the Tonian to higher values in the Cryogenian-Ediacaran group. A wide variation in the εHf(t) values (−25.8 to +10) is recorded also in the early Tonian-Stenian population, which results in the double plunge U-Pb-Hf patterns of the detrital zircons. This pattern is similar to the Nile sediments and to the Paleozoic and Mesozoic Nubian sandstone, which may indicate substantial recycling of ANS crustal material by these sediments and survival of its original zircon U-Pb-Hf-O signature despite repeated recycling episodes.

Effect of electroacupuncture stimulation on long-term recovery following Achilles tendon rupture in a rat model.

In this study we examined the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) stimulation on the mechanical strength of the rat Achilles tendon after long-term recovery. Using 20 rats, an Achilles tendon rupture model was created in an invasive manner. The rats were assigned to one of three groups, that received EA treatment (EA group), minimal acupuncture (MA group) or remained untreated (Control group). In the EA group, EA stimulation (5 ms, 50 Hz, 20 µA, 20 min) was applied to the rupture region over a period of 90 days (five times/week). In the MA group, needles were inserted into the same positions as in the EA group but no electrical current was applied. After 90 days the tendon was measured to calculate the cross-sectional area of the rupture region. Then, the mechanical strength of the tendon was measured by tensile testing. No significant differences were observed between the three groups in cross-sectional area of the injured tendon. For maximum breaking strength, the EA group showed a significantly higher threshold compared with the Control group (P<0.05) but not the MA group (P=0.24). No significant difference was seen between the MA group and the Control group (P=0.96). Given the EA group showed a significant increase in maximum breaking strength, it is likely that EA stimulation increases the mechanical strength of a repaired tendon after long-term recovery, and EA stimulation could be useful for preventing re-rupture.

Thiol/disulphide homeostasis in manic episode and remission phases of bipolar disorder

Purpose: Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronical psychiatric disorder of which pathophysiology was demonstrated to be related with oxidative stress. Thiol–disulphide homeostasis is an indicator of oxidative balance. This study aims to investigate thiol–disulphide homeostasis in BD.Materials and methods: 27 patients in manic episode (MA), 29 patients in remission (RE) and 60 healthy participants (HC) were included to the study. Serum native thiol and total thiol levels were measured with a novel colorimetric, automated method. The disulphide levels and disulphide/native thiol ratios were also calculated from these measured parameters.Results: Native thiol levels and total thiol levels of both MA and RE groups were lower than HC. No significant difference detected between MA and RE in terms of native thiol levels and total thiol levels. Disulphide levels and disulphide/native thiol ratio was detected statistically similar between three groups.Conclusion: Our results support the oxidative imbalance theory in pathophysiology of BD. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed for being able to understand these pathways in detail and use them as a target of treatment.

The Clinical Efficacy of Small Dose CAG Program in Comparison with MA Program in Senile Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia

To compare the clinical efficacy of small dose CAG regimen and MA regimen in the senile patients with acute myeloid leukemia(AML). The clinical data of 83 senile patients with AML from Sep. 2012 to Sep. 2016 in our Hospital were analyzed retrospectively. According to the chemotherapy regimens, the patients were divided into CAG group and MA group; 36 patients in CAG group were treated with small dose CAG, while 47 patients in MA group were treated with MA. The curative efficiency(CR rate, PR rate,NR rate and OR rate), side effect (myelosuppression,infection,intestinal discomfort and hemorrage), serum cytokines(IL-6，IL-17，TGFβ）, and prognosis(survival rate in 2 years, MST and SST) were observed, compared and studied in these 2 group. The curative efficiency, CR rate and PR rate of the CAG group were not significantly different from that of the MA group (P>0.05）. The side effect in CAG group was significantly lower than that in the MA group (P<0.05）. The levels of serum cytokines of the MA group were lower than those of the CAG group. Additionally, the prognosis was not significantly different between 2 groups(P>0.05）. For senile patients with acute myeloid leukemia, compared with traditional MA regimen, the small dose CAG has a certain curative efficacy and survival rate, and the incidence of side effect reduced. Therefore, the small dose CAG is superior to MA for the senile patients with acute myeloid leukemia.

Ischemic Postconditioning Alleviates Cerebral Ischemia\u2013Reperfusion Injury Through Activating Autophagy During Early Reperfusion in Rats

This study aimed to investigate whether ischemic postconditioning (IpostC) alleviates cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury involved in autophagy. Adult Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into five groups: sham (sham surgery), I/R (middle cerebral artery occlusion [MCAO] for 100 min, then reperfusion), IpostC (MCAO for 100 min, reperfusion for 10 min, MCAO for 10 min, then reperfusion), IpostC+3MA (3-methyladenine, an autophagy inhibitor, administered 30 min before first reperfusion), and IpostC+Veh (vehicle control for IpostC+3MA group). Infarct volume was measured using cresyl violet staining. Autophagy-related proteins were detected by western blot and immunohistochemistry. Autophagosomes, autophagolysosomes, and mitochondrial damage were identified by transmission electron microscopy. Cortical cell apoptosis was detected by the TUNEL assay. Neurologic function was assessed using the modified Neurologic Severity Score. IpostC improved neurological function and reduced infarct volume after I/R (P < 0.05). These effects of IpostC were inhibited by 3MA (P < 0.05). Autophagosome formation was increased in the I/R and IpostC+Veh groups (P < 0.05), but not in the IpostC+3MA group. The I/R group showed enhanced LC3-II/LC3-I ratio, p62, and Cathepsin B levels and decreased LAMP-2 level (all P < 0.05 vs. sham), indicating dysfunction of autophagic clearance. IpostC reduced p62 and Cathepsin B levels and increased the LC3-II/LC3-I ratio, and nuclear translocation of transcription factor EB (all P < 0.05); these effects of IpostC were reversed by 3MA, suggesting IpostC enhanced autophagic flux. Furthermore, IpostC attenuated I/R-induced mitochondrial translocation of Bax and mitochondrial cytochrome-c release (all P < 0.05); 3MA inhibited these effects of IpostC (P < 0.05). In conclusion, IpostC may alleviate cerebral I/R injury by activating autophagy during early reperfusion.

Efficiency of DA-EPOCH and MA chemotherapy in the mobilization of autologous peripheral blood stem cells in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

Objective: To study the effect and safety of the DA-EPOCH chemotherapy combined with G-CSF and the MA chemotherapy combined with G-CSF on mobilizing and collecting the peripheral blood stem cells and the later hematopoietic recovery. Methods: A total of 40 patients accepted mobilization and collection of peripheral blood stem cells(PBSC) after being treated by DA-EPOCH+ G-CSF and MA+ G-CSF therapy respectively, and performed auto-transfusion. The effect of mobilization, the adverse effects and the hematopoietic recovery after autologous transplantation were analyzed retrospectively. Results: Two cases in DA-EPOCH group and 1 case in MA group did not achieve the collection goal and required a G-CSF mobilization therapy again. During the DA-EPOCH mobilization therapy, the lowest median WBC was[0.7(0.5, 0.9)]×10(9)/L and the median lowest platelet (PLT) count was[75.0 (53.0, 107.0)]×10(9)/L.Low-grade fever occurred in 7 cases (37.5-38.3 ℃) and platelet transfusion was required in 2 cases. The collection of MNC number was (5.8±1.8)×10(8)/kg, and the median CD34(+) cell number was[3.7(2.8, 6.7)]×10(6)/kg; for the MA therapy groups, the numbers were[0.4 (0.2, 0.9)]×10(9)/L and[12.0 (6.0, 16.0)]×10(9)/L, respectively. High fever occurred in 8 cases (above 39 ℃). PLT transfusion was required in 15 cases and red blood cell(RBC) transfusion in 4 cases. The collected number of MNC was (6.0±2.9)×10(8)/kg, and CD34(+) median cell number was[8.5(2.6, 11.2)]×10(6)/kg. There are significant differences between the lowest PLT counts and CD34(+) cell numbers in the two groups of patients(P<0.05). A peripheral blood leukocyte increase in 10(9, 11) days and platelet implantation in 12(11, 16) days were observed after ASCT by DA-EPOCH therapy. In MA group, the number were 10(9, 11) and 12(11, 15) days. The hematopoietic recovery in both groups were successful, without any statistically difference(P>0.05). No death occurred during the process of transplantation. Conclusions: DA-EPOCH and MA chemotherapy could effectively mobilize the peripheral blood stem cells in suitable NHL patients.DA-EPOCH chemotherapy was higher in safety and lower in price, and required less transfusion compared with MA therapy.

Diagnostic value of serum lipoprotein (a) and free fatty acid in patients with type 2 diabetic nephropathy

Objective To investigate the clinical value of serum lipoprotein (a) and free fatty acid (FFA) in the diagnosis of type 2 diabetic nephropathy (DN). Methods From January to October of 2016, 120 cases with type 2 diabetes in the Second People's Hospital of Lianyungang were selected.According to urinary albumin creatinine ratio (UACR), the patients were divided into three groups: normal albuminuria group (NA), microalbuminuria group (MA) and macroalbuminuria group(LA). And 40 healthy subjects were selected as control group.The levels of serum lipoprotein (a) and FFA were measured, and the correlation was analyzed by Pearson analysis.Furthermore, the receiver operating curve was used to evaluate the positive diagnostic rate of DN. Results The levels of lipoprotein (a) in the NA, MA, LA and control group were (212.8±69.0)mg/L, (281.7±70.5)mg/L, (337.2±71.5)mg/L and (187.4±74.0)mg/L, respectively.The levels of lipoprotein (a) in the MA and LA groups were significantly higher than those in the NA and control groups(F=35.08, P<0.05). The levels of FFA in the four groups were (0.63±0.15)mmol/L, (0.84±0.13)mmol/L, (1.07±0.19)mmol/L and (0.47±0.10)mmol/L, respectively.The level of FFA in the DN group was higher than that of the control group, the difference was statistically significant (F=102.13, P<0.05), and increased with the progression of DN.Pearson correlation analysis showed that the serum lipoprotein (a) was positively correlated with FFA (r=0.64, P<0.05). The positive rates of serum lipoprotein (a) and FFA were 64.2% and 73.3% in early diagnosis of DN, the positive rate of combined detection was 84.2% (P<0.05). Conclusion Serum lipoprotein (a) and FFA levels are significantly increased in diabetic patients with renal injury.Both of them have important clinical value in early diagnosis of type 2 DN. Key words: Diabetic nephropathy; Lipoprotein (a); Free fatty acid

Effects of midazolam before or after alfaxalone for co-induction of anaesthesia in healthy dogs

ObjectiveTo study the effect of alternating the order of midazolam and alfaxalone administration on the incidence of behavioural changes, alfaxalone induction dose and some cardiorespiratory variables in healthy dogs. Study designProspective, randomized, controlled, clinical trial. AnimalsA total of 33 client-owned dogs undergoing elective procedures. MethodsFollowing intramuscular acepromazine (0.02 mg kg−1) and morphine (0.4 mg kg−1) premedication, anaesthesia was induced intravenously (IV) with a co-induction of either midazolam (0.25 mg kg−1) prior to alfaxalone (0.5 mg kg−1; group MA), or alfaxalone followed by midazolam at identical doses (group AM). The control group (CA) was administered normal saline IV prior to alfaxalone administration. Additional alfaxalone (0.25 mg kg−1 increments) was administered as required in all groups until orotracheal intubation was possible. Changes in behaviour, quality of induction, ease of intubation and incidence of adverse events at induction were recorded. Heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (fR) and systolic arterial blood pressure (SAP) were measured before treatments (baseline values), 30 minutes after premedication and at 0, 2, 5 and 10 minutes postintubation. ResultsThe incidence of excitement was higher in group MA compared with groups CA (p=0.005) and AM (p=0.013). The mean induction dose of alfaxalone was lower in group AM compared with group CA (p=0.003). Quality of induction and ease of intubation were similar among groups. Mean HR values decreased after premedication and increased after alfaxalone administration in all groups. Mean SAP values were similar between groups. The number of animals that required manual ventilation was higher in the MA group. Conclusions and clinical relevanceDespite a lower occurrence of adverse events at induction in group AM compared with group MA and a reduction of alfaxalone dose requirement in group AM compared with group CA, the use of an alfaxalone–midazolam co-induction does not seem to produce any cardiovascular or respiratory benefits in healthy dogs.

In vitro and in vivo evaluation of electrophoresis-aided casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate remineralisation system on pH-cycling and acid-etching demineralised enamel

Casein phosphate-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP), as a remineralisation agent, is extensively used in managing demineralised enamel; however, its remineralisation kinetics is low. This study aimed to improve remineralisation kinetics of CPP-ACP by introducing a rapid remineralisation method with electrophoresis. In vitro, a pH-cycling enamel model was used to test remineralisation potentials of electrophoresis-aided CPP-ACP. For verifying remineralisation potentials of electrophoresis-aided CPP-ACP in vivo in a rabbit model, acid-etched enamel surface on rabbit maxillary incisors was remineralised by electrophoresis-aided CPP-ACP with 1.0 mA (group A) or 0.5 mA (group B). Both in vitro and in vivo, it was observed that electrophoresis was benefit to improve remineralisation kinetics of CPP-ACP, and the demineralised enamel was completely remineralised after 5 h. The Ca/P ratio in remineralised enamel consisted with that of hydroxyapatite, the microstructure in native enamel. Meanwhile, in vivo the micro-hardness of acid-etched enamel in group A (322.55 ± 31.90) and group B (322.55 ± 31.90) recovered up to the value of native enamel after 5 h remineralisation (p > 0.05). The Hematoxylin-eosin stain demonstrated that the electric field used in this study was safe on rabbit dental pulp. Therefore, this efficient and safe method has the potential to be applied in treating enamel deminerlisation.

A starch-based stimuli-responsive magnetite nanohydrogel as de novo drug delivery system

A novel starch-based stimuli-responsive magnetite nanohydrogel (MNHG), namely Fe3O4-g-[poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-maleic anhydride)]@strach; Fe3O4-g-(PNIPAAm-co-PMA)@starch, was successfully developed for targeted delivery of doxorubicin (DOX) as an anticancer drug. First, magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) was modified using chloroacetyl chloride moiety followed by grafting of NIPAAm and MA monomers through ATRP technique. The resultant Fe3O4-g-(PNIPAAm-co-PMA) nanocomposite was crosslinked through the reaction between the anhydride group of MA and hydroxyl groups of starch to afford a Fe3O4-g-(PNIPAAm-co-PMA)@starch MNHG. The chemical structure of the synthesized materials were confirmed using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Furthermore, morphology, size, thermal property, and magnetic properties of the synthesized MNHG were studied. This MNHG was loaded with DOX, and drug loading and encapsulation efficiencies as well as pH- and temperature-responsive drug release behavior of the fabricated MNHG were also evaluated. As results, we envision that the developed MNHG has potential as de novo drug delivery system (DDS) due to its smart physicochemical features.

Knee Extension Strength Asymmetry does not affect Peak Power or Fatigue during the Wingate Test

PURPOSE: Peak and mean power during the Wingate test is associated with knee extensor strength, however it is unknown if knee extensor asymmetry affects this relationship. We hypothesized that increased muscle asymmetry would be associated with decreased peak and mean power during the Wingate test in healthy subjects. METHODS: 206 highly active male subjects (27 ±4 yrs, 84 ±9 kg) completed individual limb isokinetic strength testing on a dynamometer (60°·sec-1), as well as a 30 second Wingate anaerobic test in a seated position. Strength testing included maximal knee extension strength (% Body Weight). Knee extension asymmetry ratio between legs (Aext) was calculated as Aext = Emin/Emax, where Emax = strongest leg, Emin = weakest leg. Subjects were later classified as High Symmetry (HS, Aext > 0.95, n=76), Moderate Symmetry (MS, 0.90 < Aext < 0.95, n=60), Moderate Asymmetry (MA, 0.85 < Aext < 0.90, n=35) or High Asymmetry (HA, Aext < 0.85, n=35). Wingate data (W·kg-1) were analyzed for peak power (Ppeak), mean power (Pmean), as well as power output at 5 second intervals. RESULTS: There were significant differences in Emin (HS > MA, p=0.012; HS > HA, p<0.001; MS > HA, p=0.044) but not Emax between groups. No significant differences in Ppeak (12.89 ±0.68, 12.74 ±0.63, 12.71 ±0.52, 12.87 ±0.79 W·kg-1), Pmean (9.26 ±0.81, 9.05 ±0.82, 9.15 ±0.78, 9.32 ±1.08 W·kg-1) or any other power variables were found between the HS, MS, MA and HA groups respectively (all p>0.055). When all subjects were combined, knee extensor asymmetry (Aext) was not associated with any power variables (all p>0.133). Ppeak and Pmean respectively were positively associated with Emax (r=0.414, p<0.001; r=0.464, p<0.001) and Emin (r=0.397, p<0.001; r=0.420, p<0.001). Although all relationships were significant, the associations between strength variables (Emin and Emax respectively) and power decreased from 5 seconds (r=0.490, p<0.001; r=0.490, p<0.001) to 30 seconds (r=0.265, p<0.001; r=0.331, p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Greater knee extensor strength imbalance between legs is not associated with decreased power throughout a 30 second Wingate test. These data suggest that for bilateral tasks in which the legs do not move independently, such as cycling, training focused only on improving strength symmetry between legs may not improve peak power production.