Mx Group Research Articles

Efficacy and safety of combined topical ethinylestradiol with minoxidil versus topical minoxidil in female pattern hair loss. A trichoscopic randomized controlled clinical study.

Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is widely common and negatively impacts the quality of life. FPHL is more challenging to treat than male pattern hair loss with minoxidil being the gold standard treatment. Several studies used 17α-estradiol solution for treating FPHL with variable results either alone or combined with minoxidil. to study the safety and efficacy of topical 17α-estradiol 0.01% combined with minoxidil 2% in comparison to minoxidil 2% in the treatment of FPHL. Forty-three women with FPHL were asked to blindly apply 6 puffs twice daily of a spray on solution containing either 17α-estradiol 0.01% combined with minoxidil 2% (EMX group) or minoxidil 2% alone (MX group). Treatment continued for 6 months. Clinical and trichoscopic assessments were performed at baseline and at the end of the treatment. At the end of the treatment period, both groups showed signs of improvement. Improvement parameters were better for the EMX group Vs the MX group, but this was not statistically significant. More patients in the EMX group experienced menstrual irregularities. Limited number of patients and follow-up periods. Estradiol effect was not studied on cellular or molecular levels and systemic absorption of both medications was not determined. the use of a 0.01% 17α-estradiol with 2% minoxidil solution in the treatment of FPHL does not seem to offer a statistically significant advantage than minoxidil alone and may carry a higher risk of associated menstrual irregularities.

Characterization of Myxovirus resistance (Mx) gene from Chinese seabass Lateolabrax maculatus: Insights into the evolution and function of Mx genes

Chinese seabass (Lateolabrax maculatus) stands out as one of the most sought-after and economically significant species in aquaculture within China. Diseases of L. maculatus occur frequently due to the degradation of the germplasm, the aggravation of environmental pollution of water, and the reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms, inflicting considerable economic losses on the Chinese seabass industry. The Myxovirus resistance (Mx) gene plays pivotal roles in the antiviral immune response ranging from mammals to fish. However, the function of the Mx gene in L. maculatus is still unknown. Firstly, the origin and evolutionary history of Mx proteins was elucidated in this study. Subsequently, an Mx gene from L. maculatus (designed as LmMxA gene) was identified, and its functions in combating antiviral and antibacterial threats were investigated. Remarkably, our findings suggested that while Mx group genes were present in chordates, DYN group genes were present in everything from single-celled animals to humans. Furthermore, our investigation revealed that the LmMxA mRNA level increased in the kidney, spleen and liver subsequent to Vibrio anguillarum and poly(I:C) challenged. Immunofluorescence analysis indicated that LmMxA is predominantly localization in the nucleus and the cytoplasm. Notably, the expression of MAVS, IFN1 and Mx1 increased when LmMxA was overexpression within the EPC cells. Moreover, through assessment via cytopathic effect (CPE), virus titer, and antibacterial activity, it becomes evident that LmMxA exerts a dual role in bolstering both antiviral and antibacterial immune responses. These compelling findings laid the foundation for further exploring the mechanism of LmMxA in response to innate immunity of L. maculatus.

A trichotomy method for defining homogeneous subgroups in a dementia population.

Diagnosis of dementia in the aging brain is confounded by the presence of multiple pathologies. Mixed dementia (MX), a combination of Alzheimer's disease (AD) proteins with vascular disease (VD), is frequently found at autopsy, and has been difficult to diagnose during life. This report develops a method for separating the MX group and defining preclinical AD (presence of AD factors with normal cognition) and preclinical VD subgroups (presence of white matter damage with normal cognition). Clustering was based on three diagnostic axes: (1) AD factor (ADF) derived from cerebrospinal fluid proteins (Aβ42 and pTau), (2) VD factor (VDF) calculated from mean free water and peak width of skeletonized mean diffusivity in the white matter, and (3) Cognition (Cog) based on memory and executive function. The trichotomy method was applied to an Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative cohort (N = 538). Eight biologically defined subgroups were identified which included the MX group with both high ADF and VDF (9.3%) and a preclinical VD group (3.9%), and a preclinical AD group (13.6%). Cog is significantly associated with both ADF and VDF, and the partial-correlation remains significant even when the effect of the other variable is removed (r(Cog, ADF/VDF removed) = 0.46, p < 10-28 and r(Cog, VDF/ADF removed) = 0.24, p < 10-7 ). The trichotomy method creates eight biologically characterized patient groups, which includes MX, preclinical AD, and preclinical VD subgroups. Further longitudinal studies are needed to determine the utility of the 3-way clustering method with multimodal biological biomarkers.

Influence of the dental arch and number of cutting-off and rescanning mesh holes on the accuracy of implant scans in partially edentulous situations

ObjectivesTo evaluate the influence of the dental arch and cutting-off and rescanning procedures on the accuracy of complete-arch implant scans in partially edentulous arches. Material and methodsA maxillary and a mandibular partially edentulous typodont with implant abutment analogs placed in the right and left first molar and right central incisor sites were digitized to create reference models by using an industrial optical scanner (7 Series Desktop Scanner; Dentalwings). Two experimental groups were scanned using an intraoral scanner (IOS) (TRIOS 4; 3Shape A/S): the Maxillary group (Mx) and the Mandibular group (Mb). Four subgroups were generated depending on the number of rescanned mesh holes: No holes (Mx-G0, Mb-G0), 1 hole (Mx-G1, Mb-G1), 2 holes (Mx-G2, Mb-G2) and 3 holes (Mx-G3, Mb-G3). A 3-dimensional metrology software (Geomagic Control X; 3D Systems) was used to measure the difference between the reference and the experimental scans computing the root mean square (RMS) error calculation. Two-way ANOVA and a post-hoc Tukey test were used to analyze the trueness data (α=0.05). Levene test was used to evaluate the prevision (α=0.05). ResultsThe Mx group obtained a trueness mean value of 54 ± 17 µm and a mean precision value of 54 ± 17 µm, while the Mb group presented a trueness mean value of 67 ± 23 µm and a mean precision value of 66 ± 22 µm. The Mx group demonstrated significantly better trueness than the Mb group (P<.001). The G0 and G1 subgroups had the highest trueness values among the subgroups tested. No significant difference was observed between G0 and G1, G1 and G2, and G2 and G3 subgroups in trueness and precision. However, the G0 had significantly better trueness and precision values compared to G2 and G3 subgroups. In addition, the G1 had significantly better trueness values than the G3 subgroup. However, the Levene test revealed no difference in the precision mean values among the subgroups tested. ConclusionsImplant scanning trueness was affected by the dental arch and the number of rescanned mesh holes using the IOS tested. A higher number of rescanned mesh holes decreased the scanning trueness. The stitching algorithm of the IOS software tested after the mesh hole scan demonstrated a significant error, especially when multiples mesh holes are involved in the same arch. Clinical significanceGiven that cutting-off and rescanning techniques can reduce trueness, clinicians should consider whether these techniques are necessary in complete digital workflows. This is particularly important when fabricating multiple single implant-supported restorations in the same arch.

Diagnosis of mixed dementia by double dichotomy

AbstractBackgroundProper classification of patients with dementia is critical in clinical trials. Dual Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and vascular pathology (mixed dementia‐MX) is the most common form of dementia estimated to be as high as 70% in pathological series. However, separation clinically is difficult, which has led to use of biomarkers. A biological definition of AD based on biomarkers has been proposed for research studies with identification of amyloid and tau in CSF or PET. Including in the ATN formula, biomarkers for vascular disease (V), obtained from MRI, separates MX subjects, improving diagnosis of AD and vascular cognitive impairment (VCI).MethodsWe used vascular disease biomarkers from MRI and AD biomarkers from CSF with a double dichotomy statistical approach to more precisely define four major groups of patients in the UNM and Alzheimers's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) cohorts. We compared the UNM dataset (N=80) with subjects from ADNI (N=538). Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) biomarkers (mean free water and PSMD) were combined with CSF amyloid (A) and tau (T) to identify MX patients. We formed a composite vascular disease score (cVDS) with DTI, and a composite AD score (cADS) with CSF amyloid and phosphoTau181.ResultsPlotting cVDS on the x‐axis and cADS on the y‐axis placed subjects in one of four biologically defined quadrants: bAD (biological AD) in the upper left, bSIVD (biological subcortical ischemic vascular disease) in the lower right, bMX (biological mixed dementia) in the upper right, and bCN (biological controls) in the lower left quadrant (Figure). We identified MX, using a double dichotomy statistical method. The UNM cohort had 25% MX, while in ADNI there were 11.5% (Table). The ADNI group had a higher percentage of bCN (43%) and bAD (35%) than the UNM cohort; this was because UNM was one of 7 sites in the MarkVCID consortium with enriched VCI subjects and ADNI excluded vascular disease subjects.ConclusionsOur results show that adding a vascular factor (V) to the ATN formula creates a MX group, improving classification of patients by creating a more homogeneous AD group, which permits AD clinical trials with fewer subjects

Effects of sweeteners on host physiology by intestinal mucosal microbiota: Example-addition sweeteners in Qiweibaizhu Powder on intestinal mucosal microbiota of mice with antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

In recent years, sweeteners have gained massive popularity under the trend of limiting sugar intake. Our previous study found that Qiweibaizhu Powder (QWBZP) could improve gut microbiota dysbiosis and has good efficacy in treating antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). In this study, we investigated the effects of sucrose, sorbitol, xylitol, and saccharin on the intestinal mucosal microbiota of AAD mice treated with QWBZP. When the AAD model was constructed by being gavaged mixed antibiotic solution, Kunming mice were randomly assigned to seven groups: the control (mn) group, the ADD (mm) group, the QWBZP (mq) group, the saccharin + QWBZP (mc) group, the sucrose + QWBZP (ms) group, the xylito + QWBZP (mx) group, and the sorbitol + QWBZP (msl) group. Subsequently, 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing was used to analyze the intestinal mucosal microbiota composition and abundance. The results showed that feces from AAD mice were diluted and wet and improved diarrhea symptoms with QWBZP and sorbitol. In contrast, the addition of sucrose, saccharin, and xylitol delayed the healing of diarrhea. The relative abundance of intestinal mucosal microbiota showed Glutamicibacter, Robinsoniella, and Blautia were characteristic bacteria of the mx group, Candidatus Arthromitus, and Bacteroidales_S24-7_group as the typical bacteria of the mn group, Clostridium_innocuum_group as the distinct bacteria of the mm group. Mycoplasma and Bifidobacterium as the characteristic bacteria of the ms group. Correlation analysis of typical bacterial genera with metabolic functions shows that Blautia negatively correlates with D-Glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism. Bacteroidales_S24-7_group has a significant negative correlation with the Synthesis and degradation of ketone bodies. The study confirmed that sucrose, sorbitol, xylitol, and saccharin might further influence metabolic function by altering the intestinal mucosal microbiota. Compared to the other sweetener, adding sorbitol to QWBZP was the best therapeutic effect for AAD and increased the biosynthesis and degradation activities. It provides the experimental basis for applying artificial sweeteners in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a reference for further rational development and safe use of artificial sweeteners.

Comparisons of visual outcomes between bilateral implantation and mix-and-match implantation of three types intraocular lenses.

To compare binocular static visual acuity (SVA), stereopsis, contrast sensitivity (CS) and dynamic visual acuity (DVA) of 5 combinations of bifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs), trifocal IOLs and extended-depth-of-focus (EDOF) IOLs in age-related cataract patients. Two hundred and ninety-two eyes of 146 patients who underwent cataract surgery in the ophthalmology department of the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University were involved. Subgroups included group MM (33patients, bilaterally bifocal IOL, ZMB00), group TT (31patients, bilaterally trifocal IOL, AT LISA tri839MP), group XX (34patients, bilaterally EDOF IOL, ZXR00), group MX (25patients, bifocal IOL, ZMB00 + EDOF IOL, ZXR00) and group TX (23patients, trifocal IOL, AT LISA tri839MP + EDOF IOL, ZXR00). The uncorrected SVAs (UDVA, UIVA and UNVA), uncorrected DVAs (UDDVA, UIDVA and UNDVA), near and distance stereopsis, and CS were assessed 3months postoperatively. Subgroups of TT, XX, MX and TX showed better UIVA than MM (bP = 0.039, 0.021, 0.035 and 0.037, respectively). MX showed better UNVA than MM and TX (bP = 0.031 and 0.013, respectively). MX group had the optimal outcomes of both near and distance stereopsis. In the UDDVA, XX group and MX group showed better outcomes than TX group at 24 fps (frames per second) (bP = 0.019 and 0.023, respectively). XX group and MX group showed optimal outcomes at all speeds of UIDVA (P = 0.001, 0.005, 0.003 and 0.005, respectively). As the speed increased, the XX group and the MX group showed better UNDVA than the MM group and the TT group (P = 0.019, 0.002 and 0.003, respectively). Mix-and-match implantation of bifocal IOLs and EDOF IOLs provides excellent and stable binocular visual outcomes including SVA, stereopsis and DVA in distant and near distances.

Accuracy, scanning time, and number of photograms of various scanning patterns for the extraoral digitalization of complete dentures by using an intraoral scanner

Statement of problemThe use of intraoral scanners (IOSs) has been described as a method of digitizing complete dentures (CDs) extraorally; however, accuracy, scanning time, and number of photograms remain unclear. PurposeThe purpose of this in vitro study was to assess the accuracy, scanning time, and number of photograms of different scanning patterns for digitizing CDs extraorally with an IOS. Material and methodsThe virtual design of a maxillary and mandibular CD was used to manufacture milled CDs. The maxillary (Mx group) and mandibular (Mb group) CDs were digitized extraorally by using an IOS (Medit i500). Three subgroups were created depending on the scanning pattern: using the protocol of the IOS selected (Medit Link) (ML subgroup), using the technique recommended by the implant manufacturer (DIOnavi) (DIO subgroup), and using a custom method (C subgroup). The design of the CDs (reference files) was used to compare the discrepancy between each virtual design and the corresponding scans by using the root mean square (RMS) error. The scanning time and number of photograms were recorded. Two-way ANOVA and Tukey tests were used to analyze the trueness data. The Bartlett test was used to analyze the precision values (α=.05). ResultsThe group (P<.001) was a significant predictor of trueness. The Mx group (RMS mean of 0.452 mm) obtained higher trueness than the Mb group (RMS mean of 0.536 mm). The Mx-C and Mb-DIO subgroups obtained the highest trueness, and the Mx-ML and Mb-ML subgroups showed the lowest trueness. Significant differences were found in precision among groups (P<.01) and across subgroups (P<.01). The Mb group obtained the highest precision mean (0.586 mm) and was significantly different from the Mx group that obtained the lowest precision mean (0.611 mm). The C subgroup obtained the highest precision mean (0.339 mm) and was significantly different from the DIO subgroup that obtained the lowest precision mean (0.425 mm). The group (P<.01) and scanning pattern (P<.01) were significant predictors of the scanning time and number of photograms obtained. The Mb group showed lower scanning time and number of photograms than the Mx group. ConclusionsThe scanning patterns tested significantly influenced the trueness and precision values, scanning time, and number of photograms of the extraoral digitalization of maxillary and mandibular CDs by using the IOS tested.

Abstract P3-20-02: The association of clinicopathological variables and patient´s preference with surgical decision-making for early breast cancer

Abstract Background: Mastectomy (Mx) and breast conserving surgery (BCS) when combined with adjuvant whole breast radiotherapy (RT) have been shown to give equivalent outcome in randomized trials . In recent years, a number of retrospective population-based studies suggest that BCS offers superior survival compared to Mx. In these studies, treatment has not been randomized, but selected based on patient and tumour characteristics or patient´s own choice. The aim of this study was to compare clinicopathological variables in women with tumours less than 30mm in size treated with either BCS or Mx, where both surgical methods would have been feasible based on postoperatively recorded tumour characteristics. Our second aim was to explore the underlying reason for choosing Mx as surgical approach. Method: The study is a population-based retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from the Swedish National Breast Cancer Register (NBCR). The source population are women registered with primary invasive breast cancer with a tumour size up to 30 mm and no more than four positive axillary lymph nodes, treated between 2013-2016 in the northern health care region in Sweden. During this time period, the reason for selecting Mx was registered in this region with five optional alternatives: 1.Age &amp;lt; 40 years, 2.Large tumour size/extent relative breast volume, 3.Multifocality/multicentricity, 4.RT contraindicated due to comorbidity and 5.Patient´s own choice. All cases with male breast cancer and patients treated with neoadjuvant therapy were excluded.Logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association of tumour and patient characteristics with receiving a mastectomy shown as odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: A total of 1860 women met our inclusion criteria, 1346 of which had undergone BCS (mean age 63) and 514 Mx (mean age 66). For 1309 women (97.1%) in the BCS group and 146 (27.6%) in the Mx group adjuvant RT was added to the breast, chest wall and/or ipsilateral regional lymph nodes after surgery. Clinical detection, OR 3.35 (95%CI 3.32-5.14), higher T stage OR 2.66 (2.00-3.54), N stage OR 1.84 (1.46-2.32) and multifocality, OR 4.59 (3.56-5.92) were associated with a higher likelihood of receiving Mx. Women treated with Mx had more lobular tumours, OR 1.42 (1.05-1.92), higher grade, OR 2.27 (1.65-3.13), more hormone receptor negative, 1.47 (1.09-1.98) and HER2 positive tumours, OR 1.61 (1.19-2.17) compared to women treated with BCS.The most common reason for choosing Mx was large tumour size and/or multifocality (52.8%). The second most common reason was the woman´s own preference (36.6%). In 9 % of the cases RT was considered contraindicated, hence Mx was recommended by the treating surgeon or tumour board. Conclusion: Women with invasive breast cancer up to 30mm selected for treatment with Mx have less favourable prognostic characteristics than those treated with BCS. Selection bias may largely explain the survival benefits of BCS compared to Mx demonstrated in observational studies. Table 1: Distribution of factors listed as reason of mastectomy as surgical treatment. Table based on a a total of 431 mastectomy cases where reason for Mx were listed. RT = Radiotherapy No. of patients%Age &amp;lt; 40 years61.4large tumour size/extent relative breast volume13531.3Multifocality/multicentricity9321.5RT contraindicated due to comorbidity399.0Patients own choice15836.6 Citation Format: Emma Söderberg, Malin Sund, Fredrik Wärnberg, Lars Holmberg, Greger Nilsson, Hans Garmo, Carl Blomqvist, Charlotta Wadsten. The association of clinicopathological variables and patient´s preference with surgical decision-making for early breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2021 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2021 Dec 7-10; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2022;82(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-20-02.

Oncological safety of breast conserving surgery in breast cancer

Background/Aim: Breast-conserving surgery is a type of surgery used as a treatment option for breast cancer. It was introduced at the end of the 20th century following and in accordance with relevant clinical studies. With heightened public awareness of breast cancer and the introduction of new diagnostic procedures, despite the proven oncological safety of this type of surgery, a growing number of women choose to undergo total mastectomy. The aim of this study was to confirm the oncological safety of breast-conserving surgery performed on breast cancer patients at the University Clinical Centre of the Republic of Srpska. Methods: This study analysed 305 female patients with I and II stage of breast cancer, operated on between March 2009 and December 2013. One group of patients underwent breast-conserving surgery (BCS), followed by adjuvant radiation therapy and the other total mastectomy (MX). The patients were followed up for 5 years after the surgery. Analysed herein were the local-regional recurrence, distant metastases, disease-free survival and overall survival rates. Results: After a five-year follow-up, the local-regional recurrence rate for patients in the BCS group was 4.3 %, while for the MX group it was 4.2 %. The overall survival rate of patients in the BCS group was 90.9 %, as opposed to 89.1 % for MX patients. Conclusion: After a five-year follow-up, no statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups of patients regarding the local-regional recurrence (p = 0.967) and overall survival rates (p = 0.610). Breast-conserving surgery is an oncologically safe surgical treatment for breast cancer.

Timing of Meals and Exercise Affects Hormonal Control of Glucoregulation, Insulin Resistance, Substrate Metabolism, and Gastrointestinal Hormones, but Has Little Effect on Appetite in Postmenopausal Women.

The current prevalence of obesity in the US is strongly associated with excessive food intake and insufficient physical activity. This study examined whether changing the timing of exercise before or after two daily meals could alter human appetite for food. Fifty-four healthy postmenopausal women were matched by body weight and assigned to two groups: (1) two bouts of 2-h moderate-intensity exercise ending one hour before each weight-maintenance meal (XM, n = 23), (2) two-hour moderate-intensity exercise starting 1 h after each weight-maintenance meal (MX, n = 23), and one sedentary control (SED) arm (n = 8). Measurements included appetite ratings, circulating glucose, free fatty acids (FFAs), a ketone body D-ß-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), glucoregulatory hormones insulin and glucagon, and gastrointestinal hormones associated with food digestion and absorption and implicated in appetite sensations. XM group increased concentrations of FFAs and BHB during exercise and increased insulin and homeostatic assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) during postprandial periods. MX group reduced postprandial insulin and HOMA-IR by about 50% without a major change in plasma glucose. There was brief suppression of hunger and an increase in satiation in both exercise groups near the end of the first postprandial period. The time course of hunger was unrelated to the perturbations in fuel metabolism, depletion of liver glycogen, and not correlated with concentration changes in hunger-stimulating hormone ghrelin during XM exercise before meals. Similarly, there was no correlation between the time course of fullness during exercise after meals with the postprandial secretion of gastrointestinal hormones including cholecystokinin (CCK) that has been linked to satiation. Hunger and satiation appear to depend on oral intake and gastrointestinal processing of nutrients and are not affected by metabolic and hormonal consequences of the timing of exercise with respect to meals. Moderate-intensity exercise performed shortly after meals induces a rapid and highly effective lowering of insulin resistance.

Protective effects of Lonicerae Japonicae Flos against acute alcoholic liver injury in rats based on network pharmacology

This study aims to explore underlying mechanism of Lonicerae Japonicae Flos(LJF) in protecting rats against acute alcoholic liver injury(ALI) based on mitogen-activated protein kinase(MAPK) pathway. First, the targets of LJF in preventing ALI were predicted by network pharmacology and the component-target-pathway network was constructed, so that the key targets of LJF components acting on MAPK pathway were screened. Second, male SD rats were randomized into the control(KB) group, model(MX) group, positive(YX) group, and LJF high-(GJ), medium-(ZJ), and low-(DJ) dose groups. Each administration group was given(ig) corresponding drugs for 7 days and KB group and MX group received(ig) equal volume of distilled water every day. Except for KB group, rats were given Chinese spirit(56%, 3 days) for ALI modeling. The levels of aspartate transaminase(AST), alanine transaminase(ALT), interleukin-6(IL6) and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α) in serum and malondialdehyde(MDA), glutathione(GSH), superoxide dismutase(SOD) and glutathione peroxidase(GSH-Px) in liver tissue of rats in each group were detected. Furthermore, we employed quantitative real-time PCR(qRT-PCR) to probe the effects of LJF on the key targets of MAPK pathway in ALI rats. A total of 28 active components of LJF were screened from TCMSP database, and 317 intersected with ALI-related targets. According to Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes(KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis, the 317 targets involved 226 pathways, which were mainly liver disease, inflammation, immunity, apoptosis and other related pathways. According to the MAPK pathway-target-active component network, the key active components of LJF, such as chlorogenic acid, hederagenol, and hyperoside, acted on 25 key targets of MAPK pathway. The results of in vivo experiments showed decreased levels of AST, ALT, and MDA in DJ, ZJ, and GJ groups(P&lt;0.01 or P&lt;0.05), reduced levels of IL6 in DJ and GJ groups(P&lt;0.01 or P&lt;0.05), and improved levels of SOD and GSH in ZJ and GJ groups(P&lt;0.01 or P&lt;0.05). The results of qRT-PCR demonstrated that the expression levels of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 4(MAPK2 K4) and mitogen-activated protein kinase 3(MAPK3) were decreased in DJ, ZJ, and GJ groups(P&lt;0.01). The network pharmacology and experimental verification showed that the active components in LJF can reduce the inflammatory factor level and enhance the activities of SOD and GSH-Px by inhibiting the expression of key targets of MAPK pathway, thus alleviating and preventing liver damage caused by alcohol.

Minoxidil-Coated Lysozyme-Shelled Microbubbes Combined With Ultrasound for the Enhancement of Hair Follicle Growth: Efficacy In Vitro and In Vivo.

Lysozyme (Lyz) is an antimicrobial peptide, a safe adjunct, and it has been indicated that Lyz can promote vibrissae follicle growth by enhancing the hair-inductive capacity of dermal papilla cells in mice. The present study produced a new type of minoxidil (Mx)-coated antifungal Lyz-shelled microbubble (LyzMB) for inhibiting bacteria and allergies on the oily scalp. The potential of Mx-coated LyzMBs (Mx-LyzMBs) combined with ultrasound (US) and the role of LyzMB fragments in enhancing hair follicle growth were investigated. Mx grafted with LyzMBs were synthesized and the loading efficiency of Mx on cationic LyzMBs was 20.3%. The biological activity of Lyz in skin was determined using an activity assay kit and immunohistochemistry expression, and the activities in the US+Mx-LyzMBs group were 65.8 and 118.5 μU/mL at 6 and 18 h, respectively. In hair follicle cell culture experiments, the lengths of hair follicle cells were significantly enhanced in the US+Mx-LyzMBs group (108.2 ± 11.6 μm) compared to in the US+LyzMBs+Mx group (44.3 ± 9.8 μm) and the group with Mx alone (79.6 ± 12.0 μm) on day 2 (p < 0.001). During 21 days of treatment in animal experiments, the growth rates at days 10 and 14 in the US+Mx-LyzMBs group increased by 19.4 and 65.7%, respectively, and there were significant differences (p < 0.05) between the US+Mx-LyzMBs group and the other four groups. These findings indicate that 1-MHz US (applied at 3 W/cm2, acoustic pressure = 0.266 MPa) for 1 min combined with Mx-LyzMBs can significantly increase more penetration of Mx and LyzMB fragments into skin and enhance hair growth than Mx alone.

Alterations in Joint Angular Velocity Following Traumatic Knee Injury in Ovine Models.

Little effort has been directed towards the consequence of an injury on joint angular velocity. We hypothesized that the magnitude of knee joint angular velocity would be decreased after injury. Four injury groups were investigated in an ovine model: (1) anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL) transection (ACL/MCL Tx) (n = 5), (2) lateral meniscectomy (Mx) (n = 5), (3) partial ACL transection (p-ACL Tx) (n = 5), and (4) partial-ACL and MCL transection (p-ACL/MCL Tx) (n = 5). The magnitude of the angular velocities decreased in the subjects of all groups at multiple points of the gait cycle. The maximum angular velocities during stance and the maximum extension angular velocities during swing were decreased in 15/20 and 17/20 subjects, respectively. There were strong correlations between morphological osteoarthritis scores and the reduction in the maximum extension angular velocities during swing 40weeks post-p-ACL Tx and 20weeks post-ACL/MCL Tx. There was no correlation between the decrease of the angular velocity and morphological osteoarthritis scores in the Mx group and the p-ACL/MCL Tx group. The reduction in angular velocity may be a helpful addition as a surrogate measure of OA risk after ACL injury, and could have clinical significance after further investigation in humans.

16S rDNA analysis of the effect of fecal microbiota transplantation on pulmonary and intestinal flora.

This study aims to explore the effect of FMT on regulations of dysbacteriosis of pulmonary and intestinal flora in rats with 16S rDNA sequencing technology. A total of 27 SPF rats (3-4weeks old) were randomly divided into three groups: normal control group (K), model control group (MX), and fecal microbiota transplantation group (FMT); each group contained nine rats. The OTU values of the pulmonary and intestinal flora of the MX group decreased significantly compared with the normal control group. After FMT, the OTU value of pulmonary flora increased, while the value of OTU in intestinal flora declined. At the phylum level, FMT down-regulated Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidetes in the pulmonary flora. At the genus level, FMT down-regulated Pseudomonas, Sphingobium, Lactobacillus, Rhizobium, and Acinetobacter, thus maintaining the balance of the pulmonary flora. Moreover, FMT could change the structure and diversity of the pulmonary and intestinal flora by positively regulating the pulmonary flora and negatively regulating intestinal flora. This study may provide a scientific basis for FMT treatment of respiratory diseases.

Changes in Serum Ceruloplasmin Levels Based on Immunomodulatory Treatments and Melatonin Supplementation in Multiple Sclerosis Patients

BackgroundThe cause of multiple sclerosis (MS) is currently unknown, but it is thought that oxidative damage and iron metabolism mechanisms are involved. The aim of this study was to examine ceruloplasmin concentration in MS patients based on various immunomodifying therapies and to test the effect of antioxidative melatonin on ceruloplasmin levels.Material/MethodsThis prospective study included 102 MS patients and 15 healthy controls. Patients were divided into groups according to different immunomodifying therapies: interferons beta 1a, interferons beta 1b, glatiramer acetate, mitoxantrone, and immunomodifying pre-treatment (A, B, G, Mx, and P groups, respectively), and the relapse R group. MS patients were supplemented with melatonin for 3 months. Serum ceruloplasmin concentrations, EDSS, brain MRI, serum C-reactive protein level, and white blood cell count were examined.ResultsThe results indicated significantly increased levels of ceruloplasmin in MS patients. No differences in ceruloplasmin concentrations between the relapse group and controls were observed. In A and G groups, ceruloplasmin levels before and after melatonin were similar to levels in controls. In group B, ceruloplasmin concentration was significantly higher vs. control and relapse groups. After melatonin administration in group B, ceruloplasmin levels decreased. Ceruloplasmin concentrations in the Mx group were significantly higher compared to controls.ConclusionsWe found for the first time that ceruloplasmin concentration in MS patients varies depending on different immunomodulatory treatment and decrease after 3 months of melatonin administration. Ceruloplasmin could be a valuable serum marker for the chronic demyelinating process participating in oxidative stress mechanisms, as well as a neurodegenerative marker, but not a marker of acute-phase MS.

Nutritional and metabolic responses in common dentex (Dentex dentex) fed on different types and levels of carbohydrates

The present study was aimed to evaluate the capacity of common dentex (Dentex dentex) to efficiently use dietary carbohydrates. So, the effects of different type and levels of carbohydrates on growth performance, feed utilization, fish composition, plasma metabolites and key metabolic pathways in liver and white muscle of common dentex are presented. Nine isonitrogenous (43%) and isoenergetic (22MJkg−1) diets were formulated combining three types, pregelatinized starch (PS), dextrin (Dx) and maltodextrin (Mx), and three levels (12, 18 and 24%) of carbohydrates. Growth performance was not significantly influenced by treatments. The best feed utilization was observed in 18% Mx group. Higher hepatic lipid content was found in fish fed lower dietary carbohydrate levels. PS induced higher liver and white muscle hexokinase and pyruvate kinase activities compared to the lower values observed for Mx. Malic enzyme and glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase in liver and white muscle were lower in Mx group. The influence of dietary carbohydrates source was more noticeable than those induced by the carbohydrate level, when glycolysis and lipogenesis pathways were considered. Common dentex is able to use properly dietary carbohydrates, although optimal dietary inclusion levels are below 24%. The greater protein-sparing effect was promoted by the less complex carbohydrate (maltodextrin) and the best feed utilization indices were obtained at intermediate levels of inclusion (18%).

Impact of percutaneous coronary intervention for chronic total occlusion with multivessel disease

Background: Multivessel disease is known to be associated with increased adverse clinical outcomes in coronary artery diseases. The impact of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for chronic total occlusion (CTO) with multivessel disease is unclear. We evaluated the 12-month clinical outcomes between PCI and optimal medical therapy (OMT) for multi-vessel CTO patients. Methods: A total of 402 consecutive CTO patients were divided into 2 groups according to treatment strategy; the PCI group (n=117) and the Mx group (n=285). 12-month clinical outcomes were compared between the two groups. Results: At baseline, patients in the Mx group showed a higher prevalence of elderly, left main disease, LCX lesion, RCA lesion, and well-developed collateral vessels (≥grade 2). Patients in the PCI group showed a higher prevalence of male gender, hemorrhagic cerebrovascular accidents, current smokers, and non-CTO procedures. Clinical outcomes at 12 months were similar between the 2 groups except higher rates of TVR in the PCI group. Baseline adjustment by multivariate analysis, however, showed no difference. Conclusions: In our study, it seems that intervention may result in increased rates of TVR in multi-vessel CTO. Long-term follow up with a larger study population will be necessary for further determination of the benefit and risks of interventional therapy in multi-vessel CTO patients.

PC0006 Impact of physician preferences for homeopathic or conventional medicines on patients with muskuloskeltal disorders: Results from the EPI3-MSD cohort

BackgroundMusculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a leading reason for consultation in primary care. As these disorders tend to become chronic, available treatments are largely symptomatic in nature explaining in part the...

Impact of physician preferences for homeopathic or conventional medicines on patients with musculoskeletal disorders: results from the EPI3‐MSD cohort

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of physician practicing preferences (PPP) in primary care for homeopathy (Ho), CAM (Complementary and alternative medicines) with conventional medicine (Mx) or exclusively conventional medicine (CM) on patients with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), with reference to clinical progression, drug consumption, side effects and loss of therapeutic opportunity. The EPI3-MSD study was a nationwide observational cohort of a representative sample of general practitioners (GP) and their patients in France. Recruitment of GP was stratified by PPP, which was self-declared. Diagnoses and comorbidities were recorded by GP at inclusion. Patients completed a standardized telephone interview at inclusion, one, three and twelve months, including MSD-functional scales and medication consumption. 1153 MSD patients were included in the three PPP groups. Patients did not differ between groups except for chronicity of MSDs (>12 weeks), which was higher in the Ho group (62.1%) than in the CM (48.6%) and Mx groups (50.3%). The twelve-month development of specific functional scores was identical across the three groups after controlling for baseline score (p > 0.05). After adjusting for propensity scores, NSAID use over 12 months was almost half in the Ho group (OR, 0.54; 95%CI, 0.38-0.78) as compared to the CM group; no difference was found in the Mx group (OR, 0.81; 95% CI: 0.59-1.15). MSD patients seen by homeopathic physicians showed a similar clinical progression when less exposed to NSAID in comparison to patients seen in CM practice, with fewer NSAID-related adverse events and no loss of therapeutic opportunity.