MC Group Research Articles

Restoration of Corneal Stiffness in Rabbits Following Withdrawal of Travoprost.

To evaluate if the effect of travoprost on corneal material stiffness could be restored after drug withdrawal. Seventy-two rabbits were randomly allocated into three groups: medicine (M), medicine withdrawal (MW), and blank (B). Within the M and MW groups, treatment with travoprost was administered to the right eyes (MT and MWT) over a period of 12 weeks. Subsequently, the M group was killed, but the MW group underwent an additional 12-week period for treatment withdrawal. No treatment was given to the contralateral eyes (MC and MWC) in the M and MW groups. A separate blank control (BC) group remained untreated for the entire 24-week duration. In each group, corneas from 18 rabbits were tested mechanically under inflation conditions to estimate their tangent modulus (Et). The corneas of the remaining six rabbits underwent electron microscopy analysis, which focused on fibril diameter and interfibrillar spacing. Central corneal thickness (CCT) of the treated eyes (MT and MWT groups) decreased with 12 weeks of travoprost treatment (P < 0.05). The CCT in the MWT group increased after 12 weeks of withdrawal but was still lower than that in the BC group (P < 0.05). The Et of the MT group was significantly lower than that of the MC group at mean tissue stresses of 2, 4, and 6 kPa (P < 0.05). Conversely, no significant difference in Et values was observed between the MWT, MWC, and BC groups, indicating recovery after treatment cessation. Furthermore, the stromal interfibrillar spacing of the treated MT group was significantly larger (P < 0.05) than that of the control MC group, but no disparity was noted among the MWT, MWC, and BC groups following treatment withdrawal. Additionally, there were no significant differences in the mean diameter of collagen fibrils among all groups (all P > 0.05). Travoprost treatment appears to soften corneal tissue, decrease tissue thickness, and reduce the density of stromal collagen fibers by increasing the interfibrillar spacing. These changes were partially reversed after treatment cessation. Travoprost could further inhibit corneal growth, so its use in childhood and adolescence should be carefully considered. Additionally, the effect of travoprost in reducing corneal stiffness may lead to underestimations of intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement and hence overestimations in the effect of treatment in lowering IOP.

Patient-provider interactions about cannabis for therapeutic purposes vary as a function of provider type: A pilot study.

Limited evidence guides the efficacy and safety of cannabis for therapeutic purposes (CTP). Healthcare providers lack requisite knowledge to advise and support patients. This study aimed to describe and compare several aspects of initial CTP interactions across different provider types. Adult cannabis consumers (N = 507) from the United States completed an anonymous online survey about their initial CTP interaction with their healthcare provider. Providers were categorized into four groups (Mental Health [MH], Family Medicine [FM], Medical Clinics [MC], and Other Specialty [OS]). Analyses compared several aspects of the interaction (e.g., risk mitigation, recommendations, satisfaction/confidence) across groups. Less than half of the sample reported discussion of cannabis risks (44.0%) or follow-ups at subsequent visits (46.7%). Recommendations (where to obtain, consumption method, dose, frequency, and authorization) were uncommon (9.7%-25.2%). While the MH group reported the highest rates of risk mitigation behaviors, regression models adjusted for sociodemographic and cannabis characteristics were largely nonsignificant. For recommendations, the MC group was more likely than the MH group to report receiving all recommendations (p < .05). Younger age and greater cannabis-related problems increased likelihood of risk mitigation and recommendations. CTP interactions focused on risk but generally lacked comprehensive recommendations that could potentially promote safe use. Data from provider perspectives could support the need for CTP guidelines and develop training for healthcare providers to promote safe CTP practices. For the first time, this study explored several aspects of CTP interactions and compared experiences across a variety of providers.

Along the gut-bone marrow signaling pathway: use of longan polysaccharides to regenerate blood cells after chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression.

Although it has been established that polysaccharides have an effect on bone marrow haematopoiesis, it remains unclear how polysaccharides regulate bone marrow haematopoiesis during absorption and metabolism in vivo. In this study, the effect of a longan polysaccharide of large molecular weight (TLPL) on the gut microbiota of mice and its implications for the haematopoietic process in bone marrow was discussed. Here, the results show that after 21 days of TLPL consumption, the respective quantities of white blood cells, platelets, hemoglobin and bone marrow nucleated cells were determined to be 3.18 ± 1.71 (109 L-1), 1238.10 ± 164.41 (109 L-1), 135.10 ± 4.95 (g L-1), and 1.70 × 107, which reached 56.98%, 117.28%, and 47.74%, respectively, of the results for NC. TLPL both increased the thymus and spleen indexes by up to 2.08 ± 0.64 (mg g-1) and 6.49 ± 2.45 (mg g-1), respectively. Additionally, TLPL remodeled the gut microbiota with a significant increase in Lactobacillus in particular, and a significant increase in the level of the potential intestinal metabolite lactate was detected in the serum. Most importantly, a similarly significant up-regulation of the gene expression of the lactate receptor, Gpr81, in the myeloid cells was observed. These changes contributed to the activation of the secretion of various cytokines associated with haematopoiesis, with the levels of G-CSF, EPO, SCF and PF4 increased by 2.44 times, 1.14 times, 1.56 times and 1.13 times, respectively, compared to the MC group, which subsequently accelerated production of bone marrow cells and blood cells. The findings of this study reveal the unique mechanism of dried longan polysaccharides in ameliorating myelosuppression and provide a feasible strategy for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression with bioactive polysaccharides.

Ameliorative effects of Penthorum chinense Pursh on insulin resistance and oxidative stress in diabetic obesity db/db mice.

Penthorum chinense Pursh (PCP), a medicinal and edible plant, has been reported to protect against liver damage by suppressing oxidative stress. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with liver dysfunction and oxidative stress. In the present study, we aim to investigate the hypoglycemic effect of PCP on db/db mice and further explore the underlying mechanisms. Thirty-two db/db mice were randomized into four groups, including a diabetic model control group (MC) and three diabetic groups treated with low (LPCP, 300 mg/kg/d), medium (MPLP, 600 mg/kg/d), and high doses of PCP (HPCP, 1200 mg/kg/d), and the normal control group (NC) of eight db/m mice were included. Mice in the NC and MC groups received the ultrapure water. After four weeks of intervention, parameters of fasting blood glucose (FBG), insulin resistance (IR), blood lipid levels, hepatic oxidative stress, and enzymes related to hepatic glucose metabolism were compared in the groups. PCP administration significantly reduced FBG and IR in diabetic db/db mice, and improved hepatic glucose metabolism by increasing glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2) and glucokinase (GCK) protein expression. Meanwhile, PCP supplementation ameliorated hepatic oxidative stress by decreasing malonaldehyde content and increasing the activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase in db/db mice. Furthermore, PCP treatment reduced obesity and food intake in db/db mice, and improved dyslipidemia demonstrated by increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) while decreasing total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). All doses of PCP treatment decreased the values of LDL-C/HDL-C in a dose-response relationship. PCP significantly alleviated hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, hyperlipidemia, and obesity, inhibited hepatic oxidative stress, and enhanced hepatic glucose transport in T2DM mice. Based on the above findings, the hypoglycemic effect of PCP may be attributed to the activation of the GLUT2/GCK expression in the liver and the reduction of hepatic oxidative stress.

Vascular access complications after catheter ablation of ventricular arrhythmias: Impact of vascular closure devices

BackgroundVascular access site complications are the most frequent complications of percutaneous catheter ablation (CA) of ventricular arrhythmias (VAs). Whether arterial/venous vascular closure devices (VCDs) prevent vascular complications is unknown. ObjectiveWe investigated the benefit of VCDs in patients undergoing CA of VAs. MethodsConsecutive CA of VAs were included (2018–2022). Vascular accesses were obtained with ultrasound guidance. At the discretion of the operator, arterial and/or venous VCDs were used. Cases were divided into 3 groups: no use of VCDs for any arterial/venous accesses (manual compression [MC]), use of VCDs for some but not all accesses (Partial-VCDs), and use of VCDs for all accesses (Complete-VCDs). Vascular complications were classified as minor if they did not require intervention or major if they required intervention. ResultsA total of 1016 procedures were performed in 872 patients (mean age 62 ± 13 years; mean body mass index 30 ± 6 kg/m2; 27% female) during the study period. Femoral arterial access was obtained in 887 procedures (875 single access: 7.4 ± 1.5 F size; 12 two accesses: 7.3 ± 3 and 6.9 ± 1.8 F). Femoral venous access was obtained in 1014 procedures (unilateral in 17%; bilateral in 83%; mean number of access sites per patient 2.6 ± 0.7; mean size 8.4 ± 1.3 F). Hemostasis was achieved with MC in 192 procedures (19%), with Partial-VCD in 275 (27%), and with Complete-VCD in 549 (54%). A vascular complication occurred in 52 procedures (5.1%), including a minor hematoma in 3.9% and/or a major complication in 1.7%. The rate of vascular complications was 6.8% (5.2% minor and 1.6% major) in the MC group, 7.6% (5.1% minor and 3.3% major) in the Partial-VCD group, and 3.3% (2.9% minor and 0.9% major) in the Complete-VCD group (P = .014 for comparison). In multivariable analysis, Complete-VCD remained independently associated with a lower risk of vascular complications (odds ratio 0.69; 95% confidence interval 0.48–0.96; P = .036). ConclusionIn patients undergoing CA of VAs, Complete-VCD is associated with lower rates of vascular-related complications compared with MC or Partial-VCD.

Stability of oil-in-water emulsion and immunomodulating activity in S180 tumor-bearing mice.

The stability and nutritional integrity of emulsions are susceptible to various factors including thermal treatment, solid-liquid ratio, and sterilization. In this study, the physicochemical stability and immunomodulatory activities of an oil-in-water emulsion containing immune peptides (TUFSE) were assessed through particle size, zeta potential, related cytokines, and so on. When the temperature was 70°C and a solid-liquid ratio of 1:4, the emulsion revealed stability at high-pressure homogenization, with the small particle size. The loss rates of vitamins were 8.57%-62.26% in 6 months at 25°C. After treatment with cyclophosphamide (CTX), lymphocyte proliferation activity in TUFSE-H group increased (p<0.05), and immune globulin levels were notably elevated (p<0.05) in TUFSE groups compared to model group. It confirms the parameters of the emulsion, suggesting its ability to be prepared with minimal vitamin loss while simultaneously improving the disease status in CTX-treated tumor-bearing mice. It shows potential as an immune-enhancing supplement with significant potential value. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: This study validated the parameters of the oil-in-water emulsion and showed that it can be stably prepared with minor vitamin loss while simultaneously improving the disease status in CTX-treated tumor-bearing mice. TUFSE-H group exhibited a notable increase in lymphocytes proliferation activity, whereas serum cytokines and immune globulin levels were elevated compared to MC group, indicating its potential as an immune-enhancing supplement with substantial value.

Effects of Different No-Ozone Cold Plasma Treatment Methods on Mouse Osteoblast Proliferation and Differentiation.

Background and Objectives: Enhanced osteoblast differentiation may be leveraged to prevent and treat bone-related diseases such as osteoporosis. No-ozone cold plasma (NCP) treatment is a promising and safe strategy to enhance osteoblast differentiation. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effectiveness of direct and indirect NCP treatment methods on osteoblast differentiation. Mouse osteoblastic cells (MC3T3-E1) were treated with NCP using different methods, i.e., no NCP treatment (NT group; control), direct NCP treatment (DT group), direct NCP treatment followed by media replacement (MC group), and indirect treatment with NCP-treated media only (PAM group). Materials and Methods: The MC3T3-E1 cells were subsequently assessed for cell proliferation, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, calcium deposition, and ALP and osteocalcin mRNA expression using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results: Cell proliferation significantly increased in the NCP-treated groups (DT and PAM; MC and PAM) compared to the NT group after 24 h (p < 0.038) and 48 h (p < 0.000). ALP activity was increased in the DT and PAM groups at 1 week (p < 0.115) and in the DT, MC, and PAM groups at 2 weeks (p < 0.000) compared to the NT group. Calcium deposition was higher in the NCP-treated groups than in NT group at 2 and 3 weeks (p < 0.000). ALP mRNA expression peaked in the MC group at 2 weeks compared to the NP group (p < 0.014). Osteocalcin mRNA expression increased in the MC group at 2 weeks (p < 0.000) and was the highest in the PAM group at 3 weeks (p < 0.000). Thus, the effects of direct (DT and MC) and indirect (PAM) treatment varied, with MC direct treatment showing the most significant impact on osteoblast activity. Conclusions: The MC group exhibited enhanced osteoblast differentiation, indicating that direct NCP treatment followed by media replacement is the most effective method for promoting bone formation.

Aerobic Training and Ointment Effect on range of motion, von Willebrand factor, vascular endothelial factor and Femoral Artery Hemodynamics in Joint Contracture: A Rat Model.

Using a rat model, we investigated the effect of multidisciplinary rehabilitation, including aerobic training and ointment, on the ROM, vWF, VEGF content, and femoral artery hemodynamics in rats with joint contracture. A total of 44 Wistar rats were divided into the normal control group (NC, eight rats) and the experimental group (EG). A joint contracture model was established for the rats in the EG group by an external fixator. After fixator removal, 32 rats are further divided into the MC, SC, RE, and SR groups (n = 8). Before and after the 42day intervention, the ROM, vWF, VEGF, PS, ED, and RI were measured using X-ray imaging, ELISA, and color Doppler ultrasound, respectively. After fixator removal, ROM for EG group was lower than that of the NC group (p < .01). After the intervention, ROM for the SR, RE, and SC groups was improved. The ROM for the SR group reached a similar value for NC group. vWF and VEGF levels in SR group were lower than in the MC, SC, and RE groups (p < .05), and had a similar value to the NC groups. PS value for SR and RE groups was higher than the MC and SC groups. The RI value for SR group was higher than that of NC and MC groups. Multidisciplinary rehabilitation used in this study can treat joint contracture synergistically. It improves the ROM of the joint, reduces the content of vWF and VEGF, and improves the femoral artery hemodynamics.

The safety and efficacy of blinatumomab in the treatment of B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in children

To explore the safety and efficacy of blinatumomab in the treatment of CD19 positive (CD19+) B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) in children. A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of pediatric B-ALL patients who received blinatumomab treatment from Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences from August 2021 to October 2023. Based on their disease status, the patients were divided into refractory/relapsed(RR) group, minimal residual disease clearance (MC) group, and chemotherapy intolerance (IC) group. Clinical data of the children were collected to evaluate the adverse drug reactions, therapeutic efficacy and survival of the children. In total, 35 patients were included, with 20 males and 15 females, aged from 0.6 to 16.4 (9.9±4.2) years old. There were 10 cases in the RR group, 20 cases in the MC group and 5 cases in the IC group. A total of 56 cycles of infusion were completed, with one cycle in 24 cases, two cycles in 5 cases, three cycles in 2 cases and four cycles in 4 cases. The median infusion time [M (Q1, Q3)] from the first to the fourth cycle was 14 (14, 28) days, 28 (28, 28) days, 28 (28, 28) days and 28 (26, 28) days, respectively. In terms of adverse reactions, the incidence of grade 1-2 cytokine release syndrome(CRS) was 57.1% (32/56), with grade 1 CRS accounting for 84.4% (27/32). The incidence rate of immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome(ICANS) (grade 4) was 1.8% (1/56). In the RR group, 6 cases were treated effectively, and minimal residual disease(MRD) turned negative, before treatment, MRD levels were all less than 20%. Among them, 3 cases had MRD turning positive again 14 to 42 days after discontinuation of Belintoumab. Four cases were treated ineffectively, with MRD >20% before treatment. All MRD positive cases in MC group turned negative and all MRD negative cases in the IC group remained negative after treatment. The median follow-up time of RR group was 5.7 (3.8, 9.4) months, and 1 year median survival rate and event-free survival rate were 40.0%±21.9% and 33.3%±19.2%, respectively. The median follow-up time for MC and IC group patients was 6.7 (5.2, 12.5) months and 7.1 (5.1, 7.6) months, respectively, with an event free survival rate of 100%. The safety and efficacy of using belintoumab in partial RR, MRD clearance, and chemotherapy intolerance are good.

Comparison of the Shear Bond Strength Using Primers with Different Application Numbers on Dental Zirconia.

This study examined the effect of the number of phosphate-containing primer applications on the shear bond strength (SBS) of zirconia to resin cement. 315 square specimens (10 × 10 × 4 mm3) were manufactured from Cercon ht presintered zirconia blocks. Alumina particles were used to sandblast zirconia specimens. These specimens were randomly divided into six primer-based groups: No primer application (NP), CLEARFIL CERAMIC PRIMER (C), PANAVIA V5 Tooth Primer (T), M&C PRIMER (MC), Monobond N (MN), and Z-PRIME plus (Z), and then separated into application number (1-4) groups (excluding NP). Each specimen was bonded with resin cement. The SBS was measured using a universal testing machine. The debonded surface was examined with a stereomicroscope. The SBSs were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance. Applying the primer twice exhibited the highest SBSs in each group, with significant differences in the T, MN, and Z groups. However, the SBS in the MC group was significantly lower on the second application. One-hundred percent adhesive failure was observed in all groups. Within the limitations of this study, prior to cementation, the sandblasted zirconia surface should be applied twice with a phosphate-containing primer other than MC to maximize the SBS at the zirconia-resin cement interface.

Interactions between myoblasts and macrophages under high glucose milieus result in inflammatory response and impaired insulin sensitivity.

Skeletal muscle handles about 80% of insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and become the major organ occurring insulin resistance (IR). Many studies have confirmed the interactions between macrophages and skeletal muscle regulated the inflammation and regeneration of skeletal muscle. However, despite of the decades of research, whether macrophages infiltration and polarization in skeletal muscle under high glucose (HG) milieus results in the development of IR is yet to be elucidated. C2C12 myoblasts are well-established and excellent model to study myogenic regulation and its responses to stimulation. Further exploration of macrophages' role in myoblasts IR and the dynamics of their infiltration and polarization is warranted. To evaluate interactions between myoblasts and macrophages under HG, and its effects on inflammation and IR in skeletal muscle. We detected the polarization status of macrophages infiltrated to skeletal muscles of IR mice by hematoxylin and eosin and immunohistochemical staining. Then, we developed an in vitro co-culture system to study the interactions between myoblasts and macrophages under HG milieus. The effects of myoblasts on macrophages were explored through morphological observation, CCK-8 assay, Flow Cytometry, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The mediation of macrophages to myogenesis and insulin sensitivity were detected by morphological observation, CCK-8 assay, Immunofluorescence, and 2-NBDG assay. The F4/80 and co-localization of F4/80 and CD86 increased, and the myofiber size decreased in IR group (P < 0.01, g = 6.26). Compared to Mc group, F4/80+CD86+CD206- cells, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), inerleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-6 decreased, and IL-10 increased in McM group (P < 0.01, g > 0.8). In McM + HG group, F4/80+CD86+CD206- cells, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, TNFα, IL-1β and IL-6 were increased, and F4/80+CD206+CD86- cells and IL-10 were decreased compared with Mc + HG group and McM group (P < 0.01, g > 0.8). Compered to M group, myotube area, myotube number and E-MHC were increased in MMc group (P < 0.01, g > 0.8). In MMc + HG group, myotube area, myotube number, E-MHC, GLUT4 and glucose uptake were decreased compared with M + HG group and MMc group (P < 0.01, g > 0.8). Interactions between myoblasts and macrophages under HG milieus results in inflammation and IR, which support that the macrophage may serve as a promising therapeutic target for skeletal muscle atrophy and IR.

P-534 Toward enhanced genetic counseling with PGT-SR: exploring the impact of chromosomal rearrangement type and carrier gender on the acquisition of transferable embryos

Abstract Study question Do chromosomal rearrangement type and gender of carriers influence the ability to obtain transferable embryos? Summary answer Carriers of a reciprocal translocation, particularly female carriers, could have a higher risk of having non-transferable embryos. What is known already Chromosomal translocations are common structural rearrangements in the general population, occurring even 10 times more frequently in the infertile population, as carriers may produce unbalanced chromosomal gametes. Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements (PGT-SR) is a crucial tool for selecting embryos to transfer. There are numerous factors that can affect the availability of transferable embryos, and some of the less studied ones are the gender of the carrier and the type of chromosomal rearrangement. Study design, size, duration This is a single-center retrospective study performed between 2016 and 2023, that included 265 biopsies. Embryos were classified as transferable (n = 80, 30%) if they were euploid/balanced or exhibited low-grade mosaicism (&amp;lt; 50%) without the involvement of chromosomes 13, 14, 16, 18, 21, and X. Non-transferable embryos (n = 185, 70%) included those that were unbalanced, aneuploid, or displayed high-grade mosaicism. Differences between groups were assessed using Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests. Values with p &amp;lt; 0.05* were deemed significant. Participants/materials, setting, methods NGS-based PGT-SR was performed on 265 embryos from 71 cycles of 47 couples. Couples were divided into Robertsonian translocation carrier group (ROB-T, 105 embryos) and Reciprocal translocation carrier group (REC-T, 160 embryos). Subsequently, data was categorized by maternal age: ≤37 (ROB-T=91, REC-T=122) and &amp;gt;37 years (ROB-T=14, REC-T=38), as well as by the gender of the carrier: male carrier group (MC) (ROB-T=77, REC-T=97) and female carrier group (FC) (ROB-T=29, REC-T=74). Main results and the role of chance Of the embryos belonging to ROB-T group, 45/105 (43%) were transferable, while in the REC-T group only 35/160 (22%) were transferable. This difference was statistically significant (p = 0.0004612). It was assessed whether these differences were attributable to maternal age or gender of carriers. In the ≤37, 43% (39/91) of the ROB-T embryos were transferable, but only 25% (30/122) were transferable in the REC-T group (p = 0.007583). In the &amp;gt;37, 43% (6/14) of the ROB-T embryos were transferable versus 13% (5/38) in the REC-T group (p = 0.04951). In both age groups, the obtaining transferable embryos were influenced by the type of translocation. In the MC group, 47% (36/76) of the ROB-T embryos were transferable and only 24% (22/90) were transferable in the REC-T group (p = 0.003467). In the FC group, 31% (9/29) of the ROB-T embryos and 19% (13/70) of the REC-T embryos were transferable (p = 0.2749). In the MC group, the obtaining transferable embryos were influenced by the type of translocation. However, within the FC group, no significant differences were observed. When evaluating non-transferable embryos (185), 71% were unbalanced and 29% were balanced ones with aneuploidies. Unbalanced embryos were more frequent in REC-T carriers in all analyzed groups. Limitations, reasons for caution This study is limited by its retrospective nature and its small sample size. Additionally, it is worth noting the difference in sample size between groups when segmenting the data by maternal age. Wider implications of the findings Our results indicate that the type of rearrangement is relevant in obtaining transferable embryos. Carriers of REC-T, especially female carriers, could have a higher risk of having non-transferable embryos compared to carriers of ROB-T. These findings could be significant for genetic counseling of individuals carrying chromosomal translocations. Trial registration number Not applicable

Moxibustion Promoted Axonal Regeneration and Improved Learning and Memory of Post-stroke Cognitive Impairment by Regulating PI3K/AKt and TACC3

BackgroundThis study aimed to investigate whether moxibustion could affect PI3K/Akt pathway to regulate Transforming acidic coiled-coil containing protein 3 (TACC3) and promote axonal regeneration to improve learning and memory function in middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rats. MethodsSixty SD rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: sham-operated control group (SC), model control group (MC), model + moxibustion group (MM), and model + inhibitor + moxibustion group (MIM). The rats in MC, MM, and MIM groups were made into MCAO models, and PI3K inhibitor LY294002 was injected into the rats in MIM group before modeling; while the rats in SC group were only treated with artery separation without monofilament inserting. After that, the rats in MM and MIM groups were intervented with moxibustion. We used the Zea-Longa scale, micro-Magnetic Resonance Imaging (micro-MRI), Morris water maze (MWM), TUNEL, western blot (WB), immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry to evaluate the neurological deficits, cerebral infarct volume, learning and memory, apoptotic cell percentage in the hippocampal, the expression level of axonal regeneration and PI3K/AKt related proteins, the expression level of TACC3. The detection of 2 h after surgery showed the result before moxibustion and 7 days after the intervention showed the results after moxibustion. ResultsAfter 7 d of intervention, the scores of Zea-Longa and the cerebral infarct volume, the escape latency, the percentage of apoptosis cells of MM group were lower than that of MC and MIM groups; the frequency of rats crossed the previous platform location, PI3K, p-Akt/t-Akt and TACC3, the level of GAP-43 in MM group was more than MC and MIM groups (P < 0.05). While no statistical difference existed between MIM group and MC group (P > 0.05). ConclusionMoxibustion can promote axonal regeneration and improve learning and memory of Post-stroke cognitive impairment via activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and TACC3.

Identification of Hyperuricemia Alleviating Peptides from Yellow Tuna Thunnus albacares.

The development of food-derived antihyperuricemic substances is important for alleviating hyperuricemia (HUA) and associated inflammation. Here, novel peptides fromThunnus albacares (TAP) with strong antihyperuricemic activity were prepared. TAP was prepared by alkaline protease (molecular weight <1000 Da), with an IC50 value of xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity of 2.498 mg/mL, and 5 mg/mL TAP could reduce uric acid (UA) by 33.62% in human kidney-2 (HK-2) cells (P < 0.01). Mice were fed a high-purine diet and injected with potassium oxonate to induce HUA. Oral administration of TAP (600 mg/kg/d) reduced serum UA significantly by 42.22% and increased urine UA by 79.02% (P < 0.01) via regulating urate transporters GLUT9, organic anion transporter 1, and ATP-binding cassette subfamily G2. Meantime, TAP exhibited hepatoprotective and nephroprotective effects, according to histological analysis. Besides, HUA mice treated with TAP showed anti-inflammatory activity by decreasing the levels of toll-like receptor 4, nuclear factors-κB p65, NLRP3, ASC, and Caspase-1 in the kidneys (P < 0.01). According to serum non-targeted metabolomics, 91 differential metabolites between the MC and TAP groups were identified, and purine metabolism was considered to be the main pathway for TAP alleviating HUA. In a word, TAP exhibited strong antihyperuricemic activity both in vitro and in vivo.

A Comparative Evaluation of Prosthetic and Biological Outcome as Influenced by Two Different Implant Restorative Materials (Porcelain Fused to Metal and Monolith Zirconia): A Prospective, Cross-arch Study.

To investigate the prosthetic parameters, clinical indices, crestal bone levels, and inflammatory biomarkers in peri-implant crevicular fluid as influenced by two different implant restorative materials i.e., metal ceramic and monolithic zirconia at baseline, 1 Year and 2 Years. Twenty patients with bilateral implants placed in the same arch were selected. Monolithic zirconia (4Y-PSZ) crown was placed on one side whereas a metal ceramic (M C) crown was inserted on the contralateral side after randomization. Interproximal marginal bone level (MBL), clinical parameters, MMP-8 levels in PICF, and prosthetic characteristics (as determined by modified USPHS criteria) were evaluated at baseline, 1-year, and 2-year follow-ups. Data were descriptively examined. The results were evaluated using the Chi-Square Test, ANOVA, and student t-test. At p < .05., statistical significance was determined. Twenty MC crowns and twenty Mono-ZrO2 crowns were delivered. A 100% survival of the implants and the prosthetic crowns was achieved across all patients with no instances of failure noted throughout the two-year follow-up period. The periodontal changes observed in the participants were analysed and demonstrated statistically insignificant alterations. Prosthetic alterations were assessed according to USPHS criteria, revealing minor ceramic chippings and instances of screw loosening within the MC group during both the 1- and 2-year follow-up periods. These incidents were collectively categorized as technical issues. Regarding anatomical form and color match to the surrounding dentition, the Mono- ZrO2 crowns obtained much lower evaluations when compared to the M-C crowns. However, when evaluating the loss of marginal bone and level of inflammatory markers there were no discernible variations between the groups. The null hypothesis that there is no similarity in the survival rates and interactions at the peri-implant interface between the two types of restorations was rejected. Both monolithic zirconia and metal ceramic crowns demonstrated no statistical differences across all parameters examined in the present prospective investigation.

Airway collapse hinders recovery in bronchoscopy therapy for postintubation tracheal stenosis patients.

Expiratory central airway collapse (ECAC) following postintubation airway stenosis (PITS) is a rare phenomenon. The impact of airway malacia and collapse on the prognosis and the success rate of bronchoscopic interventional therapy in patients with PITS had been inadequately investigated. The aim of this research was to assess the influence of airway malacia and collapse on the efficacy of bronchoscopic interventional therapy in patients with PITS. This retrospective analysis examined the medical documentation of individuals diagnosed with PITS who underwent bronchoscopic intervention at the tertiary interventional pulmonology center of Emergency General Hospital from 2014 to 2021. Data pertaining to preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative stages were documented and subjected to analysis. The patients in malacia and collapse group (MC group) exhibited a higher frequency of perioperative complications, including intraoperative hypoxemia, need for reoperation within 24h, and postoperative intensive care unit admission rate (P < 0.05, respectively). Meanwhile, patients in group MC demonstrated significantly worse postoperative scores (higher mMRC score and lower KPS score) compared to those in pure stenosis group (P < 0.05, respectively), along with higher degrees of stenosis after treatment and a lower success rate of bronchoscopic intervention therapy cured (P < 0.05, respectively). Pearson analysis results showed that these terms were all significantly correlated with the occurrence of airway malacia and collapse in the airway (P < 0.05, respectively). The presence of malacia or collapse in patients with PITS was associated with increased perioperative complications following bronchoscopic interventional therapy, and significantly reduced the long-term cure rate compared to patients with pure tracheal stenosis. Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry on 06/12/2021. ChiCTR2100053991.

Hemp seeds attenuate loperamide-induced constipation in mice.

Constipation is a common gastrointestinal disease that seriously affects human physical and mental health. Studies have reported that hemp seeds can improve constipation, however the specific mechanism is still unclear. This study investigates that hemp seed (HS) and its water-ethanol extract (HSE) attenuates loperamide-induced constipation in mice. The research results show that: the fecal water content and small intestinal transit rate of mice in the hemp seed group and hemp seed hydroalcoholic extract group were significantly increased compared with MC group, and the first red feces defecation time was significantly shortened; HS and HSE significantly influence serum levels of Gastrin (Gas), motilin (MTL), substance P (SP), and endothelin (ET), potentially mediating their effects on gastrointestinal motility. HS and HSE can improve colon inflammation in constipated mice with H&E staining. Compared with the model of constipation group, the content of short-chain fatty acids in the HS group and HSE group increased significantly. Gut microbiome studies have shown that the structure and abundance of intestinal flora are altered. HS and HSE changed the abundance of Odoribacter, Bacteroide, Lactobacillus and Prevotella. Together, these results suggest that HS have the potential to stimulate the proliferation of beneficial gut microbes and promote intestinal motility, thereby improving gut health and relieving symptoms of constipation.

IgG Isotypes Targeting a Recombinant Chimeric Protein of Trypanosoma cruzi in Different Clinical Presentations of Chronic Chagas Disease.

Chagas disease (CD) is caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, which leads to a spectrum of clinical presentations that range from asymptomatic to severe cardiac involvement. The host immune response plays a pivotal role in disease progression. Ig isotypes may contribute to disease pathogenesis. Investigating these components can provide insights into the immunopathogenic mechanisms underlying CD. This cross-sectional study aims to establish a correlation between the Ig profile of individuals infected with T. cruzi with the clinical forms of chronic CD. Serum samples were collected from partner institutions in different states of Brazil. Individuals diagnosed with chronic CD were categorized based on the clinical form of the disease. The indirect ELISA method using the recombinant chimeric Molecular Biology Institute of Paraná membrane protein 8.4 as the antigen was used to determine the Ig profile, including total IgG, IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, and IgG4. Ninety-seven serum samples from patients classified as negative (NEG, n = 38), indeterminate (IND, n = 24), mild cardiac (MC, n = 20), and severe cardiac (SC, n = 15) forms were analyzed. IgG1 exhibited greater levels compared with the other isotypes, showing a significant difference between the MC and IND groups. IgG3 levels were greater in individuals from the MC group compared with the SC group. IgG1 and IgG3 isotypes can serve as biomarkers to evaluate the progression of CD because they exhibit variations across clinical groups. Additional longitudinal studies are necessary to explore the relationship between antibody kinetics and the development of tissue damage.

Glycemic Control and Retinal Microvascular Changes in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients without Clinical Retinopathy.

To investigate the association of glycemic control and retinal microvascular changes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) without diabetic retinopathy (DR). This retrospective, observational, cohort study included patients with T2DM without DR. The patients were categorized into intensive control (IC; mean glycosylated hemoglobin [HbA1c] ≤7.0%) and moderate control (MC; mean HbA1c >7.0%) groups. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and swept-source OCT angiography (OCTA) image parameters were compared between three groups, including healthy controls. In total, 259 eyes of 259 participants (88 IC, 81 MC, and 90 controls) were included. The foveal avascular zone area was significantly larger in the MC group than IC and control groups (all P<0.05). The IC group had lower vessel density in the superficial retinal layer and deep retinal layer than the controls (all P<0.05). The choriocapillaris (CC) flow deficit (FD) was significantly greater in the MC group than in the IC and control groups (18.2%, 16.7%, and 14.2%, respectively; all P<0.01). In multivariate regression analysis, CC-FD was associated with the mean HbA1c level (P=0.008). There were no significant differences in OCT parameters among the groups. OCTA revealed that early CC impairment is associated with HbA1c levels; the CC changes precede clinically apparent DR. The OCTA parameters differed among the groups according to the degree of glycemic control. Our results suggest that microvascular changes precede DR and are closely related to glycemic control.

Cholestatic HCV Cryoglobulinemia: A New Clinical and Pathological Entity before and after Direct-Acting Antiviral Therapies-A Case-Control Study.

Twenty-nine patients with HCV infection (HCV+) and mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC+) were retrospectively selected and matched for age and sex with 31 HCV+ MC- patients. Biomarkers of cholestasis (direct bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase), HCV-RNA and genotype, and plasma cryoprecipitates were measured before and after virus eradication; liver histology and plasma cells (aggregation and distribution), observed blinded by two pathologists, were analyzed. Sixty participants (mean age: 56.5; range: 35-77, males: 50%) with HCV infection were enrolled. Cholestasis (≥2 pathologically increased cholestasis biomarkers) was significantly higher in the MC group (p = 0.02) and correlated with cryoglobulinemia (OR 6.52; p = 0.02). At liver histological assessment, plasma cells were significantly increased in the MC+ group (p = 0.004) and tended to form aggregates more than the control group (p = 0.05). At multivariate analysis with MC, age, HCV-RNA, HBV diabetes, and cirrhosis, cholestasis was only significantly correlated to MC (OR 8.30; p < 0.05). In 25% patients, MC persisted after virus eradication with new antiviral treatment. Our study identified for the first time an association between MC, cholestasis, and an increased number of intrahepatic plasma cells in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients before virus eradication. Future studies are required to understand how MC contributes to liver damage and how its persistence affects the patients' follow-up after antiviral therapies.