Serum Inflammatory Mediators Research Articles

Changes of serum and peritoneal inflammatory mediators in laparoscopic radical resection for right colon carcinoma.

Objective:The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of laparoscopic and open operation on serum and peritoneal inflammatory mediators in patients with right colon carcinoma.Patients and Methods:A total of 100 patients were randomly divided into laparoscopic group (n = 50) and open group (n = 50). The age, sex, operation time, operation blood loss, post-operative Dukes stage, time to first passage of flatus and post-operative hospital stay were recorded. The levels of hypersensitive C reactive protein (hsCRP) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in serum and abdominal exudate were measured by ELISA at the time of pre-operative 2 h and post-operative 6 h and 24 h.Results:There was no significant difference in age, sex, Dukes stage and pre-operative inflammatory mediators between the two groups (P > 0.05). The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, time to first passage of flatus and post-operative hospital stay were significantly better in laparoscopic group than those in open operation group. At 6 h and 24 h after operation, the levels of hsCRP and TNF-α in serum and abdominal exudate in laparoscopic group were significantly lower than those in open operation group.Conclusions:Laparoscopic surgery for the treatment of right colon carcinoma has the advantages of fewer traumas, less systemic and local inflammatory response, rapider post-operative recovery and shorter hospital stay. It is worthy of clinical application.

Effects of Pioglitazone and Irbesartan on Endothelial Dysfunction on Experimentally Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Nephropathy in Rats

Background and Aim. Diabetes mellitus is associated with an induction of vascular endothelial dysfunction (VED) that leads to the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a main cause of end stage renal disease. This study was designed to investigate the protective effects of irbesartan (IRB) and its combination with pioglitazone (PIO) on impaired endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inflammation beyond blood glucose control in streptozotocin- (STZ-) induced diabetic nephropathy in rats. Materials and Methods. Forty-eight male albino rats were divided equally and randomly into six groups: A (control non- diabetic non-treated) and B (diabetic non-treated) injected intraperitoneally by streptozotocin (65mg/kg) and nicotinamide (110 mg/kg) to induce diabetic nephropathy; C (diabetic treated with IRB (30mg/kg/daily) orally), D (diabetic treated with PIO (30mg/kg/daily) orally), E (diabetic treated with IRB and PIO in doses (30 mg/kg/day and 30 mg/kg/day) orally), and F (diabetic treated with IRB and PIO in doses (5mg/kg/day and 15mg/kg/day, resp.) orally for 12 weeks). Fasting blood glucose, urea, creatinine, albumin in urine levels, IL-6, nitric oxide (NO), and Malondialdehyde peroxidase (MDA) were determined in serum of the different groups at the end of the experiment; renal blood flow and aortic and renal histopathological changes were also evaluated. Results. Administration of irbesartan and pioglitazone to diabetic rats caused significant decrease in levels of urea, creatinine, albumin, serum inflammatory mediators (IL-6 and NO), and oxidative stress markers. The effects of irbesartan and/or pioglitazone were associated with improvement of renal blood flow, and they markedly reduced vascular and renal damage induced by diabetes. Conclusion. The results of the present study support the fact that the combination between irbesartan and pioglitazone was better than monotherapy on endothelial dysfunction and diabetic nephropathy through inhibition of the pro-inflammatory mediators, NO bioavailability, and oxidative stress, which are independent of their glucose-lowering properties. And there was no significant difference between the combination of pioglitazone and irbesartan in large doses and in low doses.

Effects and mechanisms of ambroxol inhalation (Mucosolvan®) in the treatment of neonatal pneumonia.

Neonatal pneumonia is the leading cause of mortality in children aged <5 years. Ambroxol (Mucosolvan®) is a mucolytic and secretolytic drug and belongs to the group of expectorants with anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. The purpose of the present study was to observe the effects and mechanisms of Mucosolvan ® inhalation on neonatal pneumonia. Between January 2014 and October 2015, a total of 80 newborns with pneumonia were randomly divided into control and observation groups. While the patients in the control group were treated with conventional treatment only, those patients in the observation group were treated with Mucosolvan® in addition to the conventional treatment. The lung function index and serum inflammatory mediators were measured before and after treatment on days 1, 3 and 7. In the observation group, there was a significant increase in the lung function index as compared to the control group. Also, there was a significant decrease observed in the expression of inflammatory factors which in turn activated NF-κB pathway and cell apoptosis. The above findings had shown that Mucosolvan® improved lung function and exhibited good inflammatory response. In addition, we found that Mucosolvan® inhibited cell apoptosis and NF-κB pathway activation and effectively improved pulmonary functions.

P3015The study of serum inflammatory mediators in patients with atrial fibrillation

P3015The study of serum inflammatory mediators in patients with atrial fibrillation

Effect of chondroitin sulphate on synovitis of knee osteoarthritic patients

ObjectiveTo evaluate by ultrasonography the effect of chondroitin sulfate (CS) on synovitis in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). To collaborate in the understanding of the biochemical mechanisms involved in the synovial inflammation process. MethodsRandomized, single-blind, controlled trial involving 70 patients with primary KOA treated for 6 months with CS or acetaminophen (ACT). Evaluation of KOA status at baseline, 6 weeks, 3 and 6 months included: ultrasonography to assess synovitis (following the OMERACT expertise group definition), visual analogue scale and Lequesne index to measure pain and function, and ELISA to quantify inflammatory mediators in serum and synovial fluid. ResultsSynovitis presence was reduced by 50% in the CS group while a 123% increase was observed in ACT group. Conversely, patients without initial synovitis and treated with ACT reached 85.71% synovitis onset, but only 25% in CS group. Both therapies improved articular function, but only CS resulted in significant pain improvement at the end of the treatment. Changes in RANTES and UCN synovial fluid concentration were associated with CS treatment. ConclusionsTreatment with CS had a sustained beneficial effect, preventing synovitis onset or reducing its presence as well as reducing KOA symptoms. ACT ameliorated clinical symptoms but had no effect on inflammation. The CS anti-inflammatory effect could be related to the observed changes in RANTES and UCN concentration.

Effects of Clostridium butyricum on serum uric acid and inflammatory mediators in rats with hyperuricemia

To investigate the effects of intragastric administration of Clostridium butyricum in regulating serum uric acid, lipopolysaccharides (LPS), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in rats with hyperuricemia rats. Forty SD rats were randomized into 4 equal groups, namely the normal control group, hyperuricemia model group, benzbromarone (3 mg/kg daily) intervention group and live Clostridium butyricum group (1.5×107 CFU/day). Except for those in the control group, the rats were subjected to intragastric administration of yeast extract and oteracil potassium once daily for 12 weeks to induce hyperuricemia with corresponding treatments. The changes in serum uric acid, lipopolysaccharides , IL-6 and TNF-α in each group were detected. The serum level of uric acid was significantly higher in rats fed with high-purine diet than in the control rats (P<0.01), demonstrating the successful establishment of hyperuricemia models. In rats with hyperuricemia, serum uric acid level was positively correlated with the levels of LPS, IL-6 and TNF-α, and their serum levels decreased significantly and progressively with time in Benzbromarone group and Clostridium butyricum group. Benzbromarone was more effective in decreasing serum uric acid in the rats, while Clostridium butyricum produced a stronger effect in down-regulating the inflammatory mediators. Chronic inflammatory reaction exists in rats with hyperuricemia. Intragastric administration of Clostridium butyricum can effectively decrease serum uric acid level and inhibit the inflammatory cytokines, and thus contributes to immune homeostasis in the intestines.

Investigation of the prognostic value of adipokines in multiple sclerosis

BackgroundAdipokines may be involved in multiple sclerosis (MS) as well as other inflammatory diseases. This study aimed to analyze the value of serum adipokine levels as biomarkers in determining the clinical progression of MS. MethodsA total of 90 subjects including 40 healthy individuals and 50 MS patients [24 with classical clinical course of MS (C-MS), 26 with benign MS (B-MS)] were recruited for this study. The levels of serum adipokines and inflammatory mediators were measured using immunoassay methods. ResultsThe levels of adiponectin, MCP-1, TNF-α and IL-6 were significantly higher in C-MS patients compared with B-MS patients and healthy controls. Only adiponectin and MCP-1 levels remained significantly high after Bonferroni correction. Adiponectin, MCP-1 and TNF-α levels showed a modest correlation with expanded disability status scale (EDSS) scores, which disappeared after Bonferroni correction. ConclusionsOur findings suggest the potential role of adipokines in pathogenesis and clinical progression of MS. Adiponectin and MCP-1 might potentially serve as prognostic biomarkers in MS.

Efecto del condroitín sulfato en la sinovitis de pacientes con artrosis de rodilla

ObjectiveTo evaluate by ultrasonography the effect of chondroitin sulfate (CS) on synovitis in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). To collaborate in the understanding of the biochemical mechanisms involved in the synovial inflammation process. MethodsRandomized, single-blind, controlled trial involving 70 patients with primary KOA treated for 6 months with CS or acetaminophen (ACT). Evaluation of KOA status at baseline, 6 weeks, 3 and 6 months included: ultrasonography to assess synovitis (following the OMERACT expertise group definition), visual analogue scale and Lequesne index to measure pain and function, and ELISA to quantify inflammatory mediators in serum and synovial fluid. ResultsSynovitis presence was reduced by 50% in the CS group while a 123% increase was observed in ACT group. Conversely, patients without initial synovitis and treated with ACT reached 85.71% synovitis onset, but only 25% in CS group. Both therapies improved articular function, but only CS resulted in significant pain improvement at the end of the treatment. Changes in RANTES and UCN synovial fluid concentration were associated with CS treatment. ConclusionsTreatment with CS had a sustained beneficial effect, preventing synovitis onset or reducing its presence as well as reducing KOA symptoms. ACT ameliorated clinical symptoms but had no effect on inflammation. The CS anti-inflammatory effect could be related to the observed changes in RANTES and UCN concentration.

Abstract TP162: Specific Inflammatory Mediators Associated With Incident Ischemic Stroke and Individual Ischemic Stroke Subtypes

Introduction: Epidemiological studies have shown that serum inflammatory markers are independently associated with ischemic stroke. We assessed the hypothesis that specific inflammatory mediator is associated with specific ischemic stroke subtypes in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study. Methods: In the ARIC study, serum inflammatory mediators were assessed in a cohort of subjects without prior stroke. They included high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin 1ra (IL-1ra), and Intercellular Adhesion Molecule 1(sICAM1) and were followed for all vascular events. All stroke events were adjudicated and classified into stroke subtypes by standard definitions. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to study the relationship between elevated inflammatory markers (upper quartile compared with lower three quartiles) and ischemic stroke, as well as stroke subtypes (cardioembolic, lacunar or thrombotic). Results: At the fourth ARIC study visit, serum inflammatory mediators were assessed in a cohort of 5663 subjects (mean age±SD=62.3±5.6, 55% female, 83% white and 17% African-American). Over a 15-year follow-up, 237 (4.2%) subjects had incident ischemic stroke of which 47% were thrombotic, 26% were cardioembolic, and 20% were of the lacunar stroke subtype. After adjustment for Race/Center, Age, Gender, BMI, Hypertension, Diabetes, LDL Level, Smoking (3-levels), Pack Years, Education (3-levels), hs-CRP (adjusted HR 1.45, 95% CI 1.08-1.96), IL-1ra (adjusted HR 1.90, 95% CI 1.09-3.28) and sICAM1(adjusted HR 1.33, 95% CI 1.0-1.78) were associated with overall ischemic stroke. This was driven by associations between hs-CRP and thrombotic stroke (adjusted HR 1.73, 95% CI 1.14-2.61), IL-1ra and cardioembolic stroke (adjusted HR 3.42, 95% CI 1.23-9.53), and sICAM-1 and lacunar stroke (adjusted HR 1.92, 95% CI 1.05-3.50). Conclusions: Results from this prospective show an independent association between serum inflammatory mediators and incident ischemic stroke. These associations appear to be attributed to the association between specific inflammatory mediator and individual stroke subtype. These results shed light to the mechanism by which inflammatory mediators contribute to stroke risk.

Serum IL-6, IL-8 and CRP as Markers for Prediction of Bacteremia by Gram Negative Rods in Febrile Cancer Patients and in Irradiated Rats

In this study, serum inflammatory mediator’s levels (IL-6 and IL-8) at fever onset to predict gram negative bacteremia in cancer patients have been determined. Also, the effect of gamma irradiation on IL-6 serum levels has been investigated using animal model at dose level 24.4 Gy. Seventy feverish in-patients were enrolled in the study. Blood samples were collected at onset of fever for assay of IL-6, IL-8, CRP, C3 and total leukocytic count. IL-6 and IL-8 serum levels were higher in patients with gram negative bacteremia than in those with non-microbial fever. For patients with gram negative bacteremia and those without there was significant difference in IL-6 and IL-8 serum levels (P=0.0001 and P=0.0059 respectively). While, CRP and C3 serum levels showed non-significant differences. Using (ROC), IL-6 was potentially useful with Sp, NPV of 100% and 398.6 pg/ml cut-off value and AUC of 1.000 compared to Sp 77.8%, NPV 60% and AUC of 0.844 for CRP. On the other hand, IL-8 values didn't show overlapping in the groups. In the animal model, (ROC) for IL-6 serum concentration in bacteremia groups (due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae) with exposure to gamma radiation and bacteremia groups without exposure to gamma radiation showed a cut-off value of 25740 pg/ml with 58.3% Sn, NPV 64.3%. These results showed the potential usefulness of IL-6 and IL-8 as early predictors of gram-negative bacteremia than commonly used markers such as CRP and C3. Also, usefulness of serum IL-6 as marker discriminating between different fever episodes in cancer patients under radiotherapy.

Simvastatin Ameliorates Diabetic Cardiomyopathy by Attenuating Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Rats.

Simvastatin is a lipid-lowering agent used to treat hypercholesterolemia and to reduce the risk of heart disease. This study scrutinized the beneficial effects of simvastatin on experimental diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), pointing to the role of hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress and inflammation. Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin and both control and diabetic rats received simvastatin for 90 days. Diabetic rats showed significant cardiac hypertrophy, body weight loss, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia. Serum creatine kinase MB (CK-MB) and troponin I showed a significant increase in diabetic rats. Simvastatin significantly improved body weight, attenuated hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia, and ameliorated CK-MB and troponin I. Simvastatin prevented histological alterations and deposition of collagen in the heart of diabetic animals. Lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide were increased in the heart of diabetic rats whereas antioxidant defenses were decreased. These alterations were significantly reversed by simvastatin. In addition, simvastatin decreased serum inflammatory mediators and expression of NF-κB in the diabetic heart. Cardiac caspase-3 was increased in the diabetic heart and decreased following treatment with simvastatin. In conclusion, our results suggest that simvastatin alleviates DCM by attenuating hyperglycemia/hyperlipidemia-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis.

Salivary and serum inflammatory mediators among pre-conception women with periodontal disease.

BackgroundThere have been inconsistent conclusions regarding the levels of inflammatory mediators in saliva and serum among people with or without periodontal disease. Although pre-conception has been put forward as the optimal time for the periodontal treatment in order to improving pregnancy outcomes, few studies have been conducted to examine inflammatory mediators in saliva and serum among pre-conception women.MethodsPre-conception women were recruited between January 2012 and December 2014. Women were provided with an oral health examination to detect periodontal disease. Salivary and serum samples were collected at the same of examination. Inflammatory mediators includinginterleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), IL-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and beta-glucuronidase (β–glucuronidase) were tested and analyzed among women with overall periodontal disease (n = 442) or moderate/severe periodontal disease (n = 247). Results were compared to that in women with a healthy periodontium (n = 91).ResultsSignificantly increased concentrations of inflammatory mediators of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and β-glucuronidase in saliva and IL-1β, β-glucuronidase and TNF-α in serum were found among pre-conception women with moderate/severe periodontal disease, compared with women without periodontal disease. Significantly increased levels were also found in all the above saliva inflammatory mediators and in serum IL-1β and TNF-α among women with overall periodontal disease. The levels of all inflammatory mediators in saliva and almost all inflammatory mediators except IL-6 in serum significantly increased with severity of periodontal disease.ConclusionPeriodontal disease is highly associated with the elevated levels of inflammatory mediators in saliva and some mediators in serum among pre-conception women.

Effect of Radix Stemonae concentrated decoction on the lung tissue pathology and inflammatory mediators in COPD rats.

BackgroundChronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common and frequently occurring respiratory disease. At present, western medicine treatment of COPD mainly focuses on symptomatic treatment. Using Chinese medicines or integrated Chinese and Western medicines to treat stable COPD has significant efficacy. In this study, we aimed to observe the effect of Radix Stemonae concentrated decoction on the lung tissue pathology and inflammatory mediators in COPD rats and explore its possible mechanism.MethodsSD rats were randomized into blank group, COPD model group and Radix Stemonae group, 10 cases in each group. Rats were fed for 112 days. Before the rats were sacrificed, lung function of the animals was tested. The right lower lung was fixed for morphologic observation. The inflammatory mediators in serum were determined using enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay.ResultsBody weight of animals in the model group was significantly decreased compared with blank group (P < 0.05). After gavage therapy with Radix Stemonae, body weight was significantly increased (P < 0.05). Compared with the blank group, pulmonary functions of rats in the model group were significantly abnormal (P < 0.05), while in Radix Stemonae group, these indicators turned much better than model group (P < 0.05). As for pathological changes in lungs, airway inflammation in the model group was aggravated. In the Radix Stemonae group, inflammation and emphysema were much milder. The concentrations of TNF-α, IL-8 and LTB4 in both model group and Radix Stemonae group were increased significantly (P < 0.05). But the levels in Radix Stemonae group were decreased significantly than model group (P < 0.05).ConclusionRadix Stemonae concentrated decoction may mitigate and improve airway rebuilding in the lungs of COPD rats by inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators.

Observation on the therapeutic effects of somatostatin injected in different rates on the fat-derived severe acute pancreatitis during hemoperfusion

Objective To observe the therapeutic effects of somatostatin administered in different speeds on the severe acute pancreatitis during hemoperfusion. Methods A total of 112 severe acute pancreatitis patients with routine treatment in emergency intensive care unit were divided into control group and experimental group according to the speed of somatostatin injection during hemoperfusion. Patients of experimental group (n=56) received accelerated injection of somatostatin, while the patients of control group (n=56) got somatostatin in a steady speed injection. The time required for relieving clinical symptoms, time consumed for resuming normal results of laboratory tests, changes of inflammatory mediators, morbidity and mortality rate were compared between two groups. Results The levels of serum C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 in experimental group were significantly decreased from (35.3±13.1)mg/L, (149.3±26.4)ng/L, (131.9±19.3)ng/L to (12.8±4.4)mg/L, (88.4±19.4)ng/L, (66.0±17.4)ng/L, respectively compared to those of control group (P<0.05). There were shortened hospital stay (18.2±4.1)d, and reduced the time required for relief of abdominal pain and distention (6.4±1.9)d, (8.8±3.3)d, and for normalized WBC and amylase (7.1±1.20)d, (9.5±2.0)d found after accelerated injection of somatostatin in experimental group compared with control group (20.5±5.4)d, (7.7±2.5)d, (11.2±4.1)d, (8.1±3.3)d, (10.8±2.9) d, (P<0.05). Compared with control group(8.8±2.2), the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE)Ⅱ scores after treatment for one week were significantly lower in the experimental group(7.5±2.3)( P<0.05). The incidence of morbidity in experimental group was significantly lower than that in control group (P<0.05). Additionally, OR value for morbidity was 0.429, and OR value for death was 0.65. Conclusions The accelerated injection of somatostatin during hemoperfusion could obviously improve the therapeutic effect and decrease the serum inflammatory mediators in severe acute pancreatitis, as well as reduce the incidence of morbidity and mortality. Key words: Severe Acute Pancreatitis; Somatostatin; Hemoperfusion; Inflammatory mediators; C reactive protein; APACHEⅡ scores; Interleukin-6; Tumor necrosis factor α

A clinical study of multiple trauma combined with acute lung injury

ObjectiveTo study the changes of the contents of inflammatory mediators in serum of polytrauma patients with acute lung injury (ALI) and their correlation with the disease. MethodsPatients suffering from multiple trauma combined with ALI were selected as ALI group (n = 54). Patients suffering from multiple trauma without ALI were considered as the control group (n = 117). The severity of the disease of patients in the two groups was assessed. Arterial blood was extracted for blood gas analysis. Venous blood was extracted to detect the contents of inflammatory mediators tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-10, granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor, NO, endothelin-1. ResultsThe scores of injury severity score [(25.42 ± 3.58) vs. (17.03 ± 2.25)], systemic inflammatory response syndrome [(3.85 ± 0.52) vs. (2.20 ± 0.36)] and acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II [(92.63 ± 11.04) vs. (60.46 ± 8.87)] in patients in ALI group were all significantly higher than those in the control group and its correcting shock time [(8.39 ± 1.05) vs. (5.15 ± 0.72) h] was longer than that of the control group. The amount of blood transfusion [(674.69 ± 93.52) vs. (402.55 ± 57.65) mL] was greater than that in the control group. The contents of the arterial partial pressure of oxygen [(76.65 ± 9.68) vs. (86.51 ± 10.56) mmHg], arterial blood pressure of carbon dioxide [(27.76 ± 4.82) vs. (36.78 ± 5.82) mmHg] and arterial partial pressure of oxygen/fraction of inspired oxygen [(236.94 ± 36.49) vs. (353.95 ± 47.76)] were all significantly lower than those in the control group. The contents of serum tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-1β, IL-10, granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor, NO and endothelin-1 were obviously higher than those of control group and also positively correlated with the scores of injury severity score, systemic inflammatory response syndrome and acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II. ConclusionsThe activation of the inflammatory reactions and the excessive release of inflammatory mediators are the key link causing multiple trauma combined with ALI. The content of serum inflammatory mediators is closely related to the severity of the disease.

Therapeutic experience of the application of anisodamine on acute lung injury

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of anisodamine combining with conventional therapy on the degree of lung injury and inflammatory reaction of patients with acute pulmonary contusion. MethodsA total of 48 patients with acute pulmonary contusion treated in our hospital emergency department from April 2011 to October 2015 were enrolled as the research object and were divided into experimental group and control group by using a method of random number table. Experimental group received anisodamine combining with conventional therapy and control group received conventional therapy. In the process of the treatment, the mechanical ventilation time, hospital stays in intensive care unit and the number of cases developed into acute respiratory distress syndrome and multiple organ dysfunction syndromes of patients in two groups were observed. Oxygenation indexes of patients were respectively calculated on Days 1, 2 and 3 after treatment. The contents of inflammatory mediators in serum were detected on Day 3 after treatment. ResultsThe mechanical ventilation time and hospital stays in intensive care unit [(9.52 ± 1.41) vs. (14.57 ± 2.51) days] of patients in experimental group were significantly shorter than those in control group, and the number of cases developed into acute respiratory distress syndrome [1 (4.17%) vs. 9 (37.50%)] and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome [1 (4.17%) vs. 7 (29.17%)] was significantly less than those in control group. Oxygenation indexes (294.52 ± 41.26 vs. 257.63 ± 38.52; 357.74 ± 47.74 vs. 279.87 ± 31.46; 396.71 ± 55.12 vs. 279.87 ± 31.46) of patients were respectively calculated on Days 1, 2 and 3 after treatment, which were significantly higher than those in the control group. On Day 3 after treatment, the contents of serum C-reactive protein [(7.94 ± 1.05) vs. (14.49 ± 2.97) mg/L], tumor necrosis factor α [(264.69 ± 41.58) vs. (417.87 ± 64.51) ng/L], interleukin-6 (IL-6) [(147.72 ± 21.36) vs. (257.68 ± 41.54) ng/L], IL-8 [(93.68 ± 12.52) vs. (145.62 ± 22.65) ng/L], IL-10 [(205.64 ± 31.56) vs. (336.62 ± 51.38) ng/L] and myeloid cells-1 (73.32 ± 10.39 vs. 114.45 ± 18.51) of patients in experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group. ConclusionsThe anisodamine combining with conventional therapy can relieve the degree of lung injury caused by acute pulmonary contusion, improve ventilatory function, lower the incidence of acute respiratory distress syndrome and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome and inhibit the activation of inflammatory reaction and the release of inflammatory mediators.

Characteristics of laryngeal symptoms induced in patients with allergic rhinitis in an environmental challenge chamber

BackgroundPeople with allergic rhinitis often have laryngeal symptoms (LSs) in addition to nasal symptoms during the pollen-scattering season. ObjectiveTo clarify the characteristics of the LSs induced by pollen exposure using an environmental challenge chamber. MethodsCypress pollen exposure using an environmental challenge chamber for 25 participants with cypress pollen–induced allergic rhinitis was performed for 3 hours for 2 consecutive days in 3 study courses: namely, pollen exposure under normal nasal breathing and pollen or sham pollen exposure with nasal blockage, which eliminated any allergic reactions in the nasal mucosa. The nasal and LSs scores and the levels of serum inflammatory mediators, including eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), were monitored. Laryngeal examinations and physiologic lung tests were also conducted. ResultsVarious LSs were reported, and these LSs were significantly elevated during pollen exposure and even under sham exposure with artificial nasal blockage. The pollen exposure with artificial nasal blockage exaggerated the LSs in 32% of the participants and also increased the serum ECP levels. The serum ECP levels did not change after sham exposure. The findings of both laryngeal examinations and lung tests failed to reveal any significant changes. ConclusionNasal obstruction could induce significant LSs even without pollen exposure. LSs were enhanced by pollen exposure and allergic reactions in the larynx could thus be involved in this enhancement. Trial Registrationclinicaltrials.gov Identifier: UMIN000015667.

Chicken Broth AAC1 as a Dietary Supplement Inhibits Pain Transmission and Decreases Serum C‐Reactive Protein Levels In a Model of TMJ Disorder

ObjectiveThe goal of this study was to determine if the dietary inclusion of the commercially available chicken broth AAC1 could repress nocifensive behaviors and PKA expression associated with a clinically relevant model of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder caused by prolonged jaw opening.BackgroundRoutine dental visits for molar extractions or root canals, or to the orthodontist can result in an injury to the TMJ or muscles of mastication if the jaw is held open for long periods of time or is opened to near maximal even for a short period of time. However, the pathophysiological and cellular mediators that underlie the development of chronic orofacial pain associated with TMJ disorder are not well understood. Chicken broth has been often thought of as having beneficial immune effects and may represent an innovative and safe alternative treatment for chronic inflammatory diseases.MethodsMale Sprague‐Dawley rats were used to investigate the effects AAC1 on behavioral and cellular changes associated with prolonged jaw opening. A surgical retractor was placed around the bottom and top incisors and the jaw held at near maximal opening for 20 minutes. Withdrawal responses to mechanical stimuli were determined following jaw opening for up to 7 days by applying calibrated von Frey filaments to the cutaneous area over the masseter. Some animals received 0.5% solid (w/v) AAC1 dissolved in their drinking water for two weeks prior to jaw opening. After 7 days, animals were euthanized and the upper spinal cord and trigeminal ganglia were removed to study changes in the expression of PKA utilizing immunohistochemistry. Serum samples were collected to determine the levels of C‐reactive protein using an ELISA.ResultsNear maximal jaw opening was induced a sustained increase in the number of nocifensive responses to mechanical stimuli over the masseter area for 7 days. This increased sensitivity correlated with increased levels of PKA expression in both the upper spinal cord and the trigeminal ganglia, and elevated serum levels of C‐reactive protein. Dietary inclusion of AAC1 was able to suppress nocifensive behaviors, PKA expression, and decreased levels of C‐reactive protein associated with prolonged jaw opening.ConclusionOur findings provide evidence that dietary inclusion of chicken broth AAC1 inhibits transmission of pain signals and represses levels of inflammatory mediators in serum and nerve cells and thus, may by a useful nutraceutical supplement to help manage inflammatory pain associated with TMJ disorder.Support or Funding InformationSupport provided by International Dehydrated Foods

Late Effects of Early Anthracycline‐Induced Cardiotoxicity in Pediatric Mouse Model

ObjectiveChildhood cancer survivors with a history of anthracycline exposure have a 2 – 5 fold increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease as adults. Elucidating the molecular and cellular mechanisms responsible for pathological changes in the heart has proved challenging. The lack of available myocardial tissue available to study is hampered by long latent period between childhood exposure and onset of overt disease. The goal of this study was to use a mouse model that simulates early anthracycline exposure and evaluate cardiac endpoints throughout lifespan to study the long‐term cardiovascular effects of anthracycline treatment.MethodsAt 2 weeks of age mice were expos ed to 5 weekly intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of saline or the anthracycline doxorubicin at 1 mg/kg, 3 mg/kg or, 5 mg/kg. Cardiovascular function was analyzed during acute doxorubicin exposure (3, 5, 7 weeks). Survival and body weight were monitored throughout lifespan. At 15 months, animals were sacrificed and 60 common serum inflammatory and metabolic mediators were quantified in control and anthracycline‐exposed mice. Western blots were performed with whole heart tissue lysates and probed for STAT3 and p‐STAT3.ResultsEarly and Late toxicity were consistently elicited at all doxorubicin doses administered as indicated by decreased fractional shortening (F.S.), left ventricular and (LV) mass. Survival and body weight were decreased with higher doses of anthracycline. Of the metabolic and inflammatory mediators assayed in serum, 13 were significantly decreased (P&lt;0.05) in doxorubicin treated animals compared to controls. In contrast, leptin was markedly increased (P&lt;0.02) in mice treated with doxorubicin as compared to controls. Western blot analysis showed increased expression of p‐STAT3 which increased with higher doses of anthracycline compared to control.ConclusionUsing a mouse model that emulates cardiotoxicity in children elicits relevant systematic metabolic changes. These data suggest that leptin and STAT3 are activated in correlation with cardiac dysfunction during the long recovery phase. STAT3 activation may be in response to higher circulating levels. Further evaluation must be performed. Myocardial tissue isolated from anthracycline treated mice may be used to develop a novel understanding of molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive the pathogenesis of cardiac disease in childhood cancer survivors.Support or Funding InformationNational Research Service Award (NRSA) NIH Training Grant T32‐HL007446

Effects of l-Carnitine Supplementation on Serum Inflammatory Factors and Matrix Metalloproteinase Enzymes in Females with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study

Objective: Considering the importance of inflammation in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA) and induction of pain, this study was aimed to investigate the effect of L-carnitine supplementation on serum inflammatory mediators and OA-associated pain in females with knee OA.Methods: In this clinical trial, 72 females with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis started the study, divided into 2 groups to receive 750 mg/day L-carnitine (n = 36) or placebo (n = 36) for 8 weeks. Serum levels of Interleukine-1β (IL-1β), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)-1 and -13, and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain were assessed before and after supplementation. Data were analyzed by t test, Wilcoxon signed rank test, Mann-Whitney U test, and analysis of covariance.Results: Only 69 patients (33 in the L-carnitine group and 36 in the placebo group) completed the study. L-Carnitine supplementation decreased serum IL-1β and MMP-1 levels significantly (p = 0.001 and p = 0.021, respectively); however, serum hs-CRP and MMP-13 levels did not change significantly (p > 0.05). In the placebo group, serum IL-1β levels increased significantly (p = 0.011), whereas other studied biomarkers did not change significantly. The mean VAS score decreased significantly in the L-carnitine and placebo groups by 52.67% and 21.82%, respectively (p < 0.001). Significant differences were only observed between the 2 groups in serum IL-1β (p < 0.001) and MMP-1 (p = 0.006) levels and mean VAS score (p = 0.002) after adjusting for baseline values and covariates.Conclusion: Despite observed beneficial effects of short-term supplementation of L-carnitine in decreasing serum inflammatory mediators and improving pain in knee OA patients, further studies are needed to achieve concise conclusions.