Volume Of Normal Saline Research Articles

Inhibition of the TGF-β/Smad3 signaling pathway by SB431542: A study of the intervention effect of SB431542 on silicotic fibrosis in rats

Objective: To investigate the intervention effect of SB431542, which inhibits the TGF-β/Smad3 signaling pathway, on silicotic fibrosis in rats. Methods: A total of 40 specific pathogen-free Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into normal saline control group, model group, SB431542 inhibitor group, and SB431542 inhibitor control group using a random number table, with 10 rats in each group. All rats except those in the normal saline control group were given non-exposed single intratracheal instillation of free silicon dioxide dust suspension 1 mL (50 mg/mL) ; the rats in the SB431542 inhibitor group were given intraperitoneal injection of SB431542 (5 mg/kg) on days 7 and 30 after dust exposure, those in the SB431542 inhibitor control group were given intraperitoneal injection of SB431542 cosolvent (5 mg/kg) on days 7 and 30 after dust exposure, and those in the normal saline control group were given intratracheal instillation of an equal volume of normal saline (5 mg/kg). On day 60 after dust exposure, the paraffin-embedded section of the right upper lobe of lung was collected for HE staining; the left upper lobe of lung was collected to measure the mRNA levels of fibronectin (FN) , collagen type I (COL-I) , and collagen type III (COL-III) by quantitative real-time PCR; the right inferior lobe of lung was collected to measure the protein levels of FN, COL-I, COL-III, phosphorylated Smad3 (p-Smad3) , and Smad3. Results: Compared with the normal saline control group, the model group had nodules with various sizes in lung tissue, with rupture of some alveolar septa, emphysema changes, and pulmonary interstitial fibrosis, as well as significant increases in the mRNA expression of FN, COL-I, and COL-III and the protein expression of FN, COL-I, COL-III, p-Smad3, and Smad3 in lung tissue (P<0.05) . Compared with the SB431542 inhibitor control group, the SB431542 inhibitor group had a relatively complete structure of lung tissue without marked nodules and with a small amount of exudate in alveolar space and the lumen of bronchioles, as well as significant reductions in the mRNA expression of FN, COL-I, and COL-III and the protein expression of FN, COL-I, COL-III, p-Smad3, and Smad3 in lung tissue (P<0.05) . There were no significant differences in the mRNA expression of FN, COL-I, and COL-III and the protein expression of FN, COL-I, COL-III, p-Smad3, and Smad3 between the model group and the SB431542 inhibitor control group (P>0.05) . Conclusion: SB431542 exerts an intervention effect on silicotic fibrosis by blocking the TGF-β/Smad3 signaling pathway and reducing the expression of the downstream fibrosis factors FN, COL-I, and COL-III.

Assessment of brain edema occurrence during laparoscopic radical resection of gynecological tumor: measurement of optic nerve sheath diameter by ultrasound method

Objective To assess whether brain edema occurred during laparoscopic radical resection of gynecological tumor through measurement of optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) by ultrasound. Methods Forty American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status Ⅰ or Ⅱ patients, aged 35-64 yr, with body mass index of 18.5-25.0 kg/m2, scheduled for elective laparoscopic radical resection of gynecologic tumor, were divided into 2 groups (n=20 each) using a random number table method: hypertonic sodium chloride hydroxyethyl starch 40 injection (HSH40) therapeutic diagnosis group (group H) and normal saline control group (group N). HSH40 5ml/kg was continuously infused for 30 min starting from 150 min after Trendelenburg position and CO2 pneumoperitoneum in group H, and the equal volume of normal saline was given instead in group N. The bilateral ONSDs were measured using ultrasound at 5 min after anesthesia induction (T0), 10, 60, 120 and 180 min after Trendelenburg position and CO2 pneumoperitoneum (T1-4) and 10 min of supine position after deflation (T5). The occurrence of increased intracranial pressure before and after therapeutic diagnostic test and efficacy of therapeutic diagnostic test were observed. Results The ONSD was significantly shorter at T4-5 in group H than in group N (P 0.05). The effective rate of therapeutic diagnostic test was 94% in group H (P<0.05). Conclusion Laparoscopic radical resection of gynecologic tumor factor can induce brain edema, and preventive measures should be taken. Key words: Brain Edema; Pneumoperitoneum, artificial; Gynecologic surgical procedures; Optic nerve; Neurilemma

Ginsenoside Rb1 Promotes Motor Functional Recovery and Axonal Regeneration in Post-stroke Mice through cAMP/PKA/CREB Signaling Pathway

The central nervous system (CNS) has a poor self-repairing capability after injury because of the inhibition of axonal regeneration by many myelin-associated inhibitory factors. Therefore, ischemic stroke usually leads to disability. Previous studies reported that Ginsenoside Rb1 (GRb1) plays a role in neuronal protection in acute phase after ischemic stroke, but its efficacy in post-stroke and the underlying mechanism are not clear. Recent evidences demonstrated GRb1 promotes neurotransmitter release through the cAMP-depend protein kinase A (PKA) pathway, which is related to axonal regeneration. The present study aimed to determine whether GRb1 improves long-term motor functional recovery and promotes cortical axon regeneration in post-stroke. Adult male C57BL/6 mice were subjected to distal middle cerebral artery occlusion (dMCAO). GRb1 solution (5 mg/ml) or equal volume of normal saline was injected intraperitoneally for the first time at 24 h after surgery, and then daily injected until day 14. Day 3, 7, 14 and 28 after dMCAO were used as observation time points. Motor functional recovery was assessed with Rota-rod test and grid walking task. The expression of growth-associated protein 43 (GAP43) and biotinylated dextran amine (BDA) was measured to evaluate axonal regeneration. The levels of cyclic AMP (cAMP) and PKA were measured by Elisa, PKAc and phosphorylated cAMP response element protein (pCREB) were determined by western blot. Our results shown that GRb1 treatment improved motor function and increased the expression of GAP43 and BDA in ipsilesional and contralateral cortex. GRb1 significantly elevated cAMP and PKA, increased the protein expression of PKAc and pCREB. However, the effects of GRb1 were eliminated by H89 intervention (a PKA inhibitor). These results suggested that GRb1 improved functional recovery in post-stroke by stimulating axonal regeneration and brain repair. The underlying mechanism might be up-regulating the expression of cAMP/PKA/CREB pathway.

Effect of intraperitoneal bupivacaine on postoperative pain in laparoscopic bariatric surgeries.

Postoperative pain has many adverse effects and, if not properly controlled, it may lead to a wide range of complications. Opioids, as frequently used drugs for pain control, have some serious respiratory and gastrointestinal complications, especially in obese patients. In this study, we planned to evaluate the effect of intraperitoneal bupivacaine lavage on postoperative pain in laparoscopic bariatric surgeries. The study was conducted in Firoozgar Hospital (affiliated to Iran University of Medical Sciences), Tehran, Iran. In this clinical trial, 106 patients scheduled for laparoscopic bariatric surgery, randomly assigned to receive either intraperitoneal lavage with 50 mL of .2% bupivacaine or the same volume of normal saline during the operation. One-gram intravenous paracetamol was infused for all patients at the end of surgery, and all patients received intravenous paracetamol infusion for 1 day after surgery. Pain level, assessed by visual analog scale, was recorded at 1, 4, 8, and 24 hours after surgery. Total additive analgesics administered during the first day after surgery was also recorded. The pain score during the first 24 hours after surgery decreased significantly in both groups, but comparing the groups showed that pain level at 1, 4, 8, and 24 hours after surgery in the bupivacaine group was significantly lower than the normal saline group (P < .05). Also, opioid consumption during 24 hours was significantly lower in the bupivacaine group (P < .001). Intraperitoneal lavage with bupivacaine is an effective approach to control postoperative pain in obese patients undergoing laparoscopic bariatric surgery.

Effects of serum from breast cancer surgery patients receiving perioperative dexmedetomidine on breast cancer cell malignancy: A prospective randomized controlled trial.

Adrenergic receptors (ARs) have gained attention for their involvement in breast cancer (BC) progression. Dexmedetomidine, a selective α2‐AR agonist, has been reported to increase the malignancy of BC cells in vitro or stimulate tumor growth in mice. However, clinical evidence is lacking. Clinical research in this area is important as dexmedetomidine is widely used in BC surgery patients. Here we allocated 24 women with primary BC to the dexmedetomidine group (who received a total dose of 2 μg kg−1 dexmedetomidine perioperatively) or to the control group (who received the same volume of normal saline). Venous blood was obtained from all patients immediately upon entering the operating room and 24 hours postoperatively. Serum was then exposed to MCF‐7 cells at a concentration of 10% for 24 hours. Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were analyzed using EdU, Transwell, and Matrigel methods, respectively. We found that postoperative serum from those who received dexmedetomidine was associated with significantly increased cell proliferation, migration, and invasion compared with preoperative serum when used to culture MCF‐7 cells. The mean percentage change from post to preoperative values in these cell functions was significantly larger in the dexmedetomidine group than in the control group (proliferation, 30.44% vs 8.45%, P = .0024; migration, 15.90% vs 3.25%, P = .0015; invasion, 8.17% vs 2.13%, P = .04). In conclusion, these findings suggest that in patients undergoing surgery for primary BC, perioperative administration of dexmedetomidine might influence the serum milieu in a way that favors the malignancy of MCF‐7 cells.Clinical trial registration: NCT03108937.

The analgesic efficacy of ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane block for retroperitoneoscopic renal surgery: a randomized controlled study

BackgroundUltrasound-guided lateral transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block can provide definite analgesia to the anterior abdominal wall. However, whether this method is useful in renal surgery through the lateral abdominal wall pathway remains unknown. The study aimed to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of lateral TAP block for retroperitoneoscopic partial or radical nephrectomy.MethodIn this prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, eligible patients were randomized into two groups. After anaesthesia induction, ultrasound-guided lateral TAP block was performed with either 30 ml of 0.4% ropivacaine (Group T) or an equivalent volume of normal saline (Group C). The primary outcomes were opioid consumption during surgery and in the first 24 h after surgery. Secondary outcomes included postsurgical pain intensity immediately awakening from anaesthesia and at 0.5, 1, 2, 6, 12, and 24 h after surgery, as well as recovery variables including the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), sleep quality, time to first ambulation, drainage and length of hospital stay.ResultsA total of 104 patients were enrolled and randomized (53 in Group T and 51 in Group C). Laparoscopic surgery was converted to open surgery in one patient of Group T; this patient was excluded from the outcome analysis. The opioid consumption during surgery (intravenous morphine equivalent dose: median 35.0 mg [interquartile range 18.0, 49.6] in Group C vs. 40.3 mg [20.9, 59.0] in Group T, P = 0.281) and in the first 24 h after surgery (10.8 mg [7.8, 21.7] in Group C vs. 13.2 mg [8.0, 26.6] in Group T, P = 0.311) did not differ significantly between groups. There were no significant differences between groups regarding the pain intensity at all time points after surgery and the recovery variables (all P > 0.05).ConclusionsOur results showed that, in patients undergoing retroperitoneoscopic renal surgery, preoperative lateral TAP did not decrease intra- and postoperative opioid consumption, nor did it relieve pain intensity or promote postoperative recovery in the first 24 h after surgery. However, the trial might be underpowered.Trial registrationThis study was registered on November 4, 2017, in the Chinese Clinical Trail Registry with the identification number ChiCTR-INR-17013244.

Effects of pentazocine on postoperative cardiac troponin I in diabetic patients undergoing lower limb surgery

Objective To evaluate the changes of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) in diabetic patients undergoing lower limb surgery and the effect of pentazocine on the changes. Methods Ninety-three patients who were scheduled for orthopedic surgery in the lower extremity under intrathecal anesthesia were enrolled. They were divided into three groups (n=31): a non-diabetic patient group (group NDM), a diabetic group without treatment of pentazocine (group DM) and a diabetic group with treatment of pentazocine (group DM-P). Patients in group DM-P were intravenously infused with 0.5 mg/kg pentazocine 30 min before operation, while the same volume of normal saline was given in groups DM and NDM. Blood samples were collected 30 min before surgery and 24 h after operation. The serum concentrations of cTnI and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) were determined through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Intraoperative adverse cardiovascular events were recorded. Results Compared with group NDM, groups DM and DM-P showed remarkable increases in the concentration of serum cTnI 30 min before operation and 24 h after operation (P<0.05). Group DM presented marked higher levels of cTnI 24 h after operation than group DM-P (P<0.05). A remarkable increased level of cTnI in groups NDM and DM and a marked decreased level of cTnI in group DM-P were found 24 h after surgery, in comparison with those before surgery (P<0.05). Meanwhile, group NDM presented significantly higher levels of serum CGRP than groups DM and DM-P 30 min before operation (P<0.05). Compared with group DM, groups NDM and DM-P showed remarkable increased levels of CGRP 24 h after operation (P<0.05). The incidence of intraoperative adverse cardiovascular events was significantly increased in group DM (58.1%), compared with 22.6% in group NDM (P<0.05). Conclusions The level of serum cTnI is significantly increased in diabetic patients. Pentazocine can reduce the serum concentration of cTnI in diabetic patients 24 h after lower extremity surgery, which may be associated with the up-regulation of CGRP. Key words: Pentazocine; Diabetes mellitus; Cardiac troponin I; Calcitonin gene-related peptide; Adverse cardiovascular events

Morphological reseach on expression of inflammatory mediators in murine models of chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) induced by T2 antigen

Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is a common clinical syndrome with unknown aetiology. In this study, we used the T2 peptide in C57BL/6 (B6) mice and Sprague Dawley (SD) rats model during different stages. We sought to understand the role of CD4+ T cells and macrophages in CP/CPPS. A total of 16 B6 mice and 18 SD rats were divided into five groups: B6-naïve (n=6), B6 model (n=10), SD-naïve (n=6), SD-45-day model (n=6) and SD-56-day model (n=6). The B6 model group was subcutaneously injected with 0.2ml of (225μg/ml) T2 peptide on 0 and 14th day and was finally sacrificed on 28th day. The SD-45- and SD-56-day model groups were subcutaneously injected with 1ml of (50μg/ml) T2 peptide on 0 and 14th day and were finally sacrificed on 45th and 56th day respectively. An equivalent volume of normal saline (NS) solution was injected to the naïve groups and analysed the pain and voiding behaviour. We have calculated the prostate index, H&E staining and immunofluorescence of CD4+ T cells and macrophages (CD68) in each group. T2 peptide immunization in B6 mice and SD rats caused severe prostatitis and cell infiltration, mainly composed of CD4+ T cells and macrophages. The SD-56-day model group showed more severe inflammatory cells infiltration than SD-45-day model group. Moreover, inflammatory cells infiltration and red secretions in B6 model were less than SD model. Expression of CD4+ T cells and macrophages was also consistent with H&E results. These results indicated that different stages of CP/CPPS, inflammatory response, and the inflammation of the rat were stronger than the mouse. Our study suggests that CD4+ T cells and macrophages are key factors in the development of CP/CPPS.

Parenteral tranexamic acid reduces postoperative blood loss and transfusion rates after total knee arthroplasty: A prospective randomized controlled trial

Background: TKA has been considered one of the most successful surgeries in orthopedics. Blood loss related to total knee arthroplasty has been a topic of concern. Post operative blood transfusion carries imminent risk of disease transmission, febrile reactions and involves additional cost. It is advisable to avoid blood transfusion in the postoperative cases whenever possible. Many strategies are used to reduce postoperative blood loss like intraoperative tourniquet, cell savers and preoperative hemoglobin raising agents. Drugs like Tranexamic acid (TA) that inhibit the fibrinolytic system may be used to reduce the intraoperative and postoperative blood loss. Inhibition of fibrinolysis may increase the chances of thromboembolic disease. We studied the efficacy of parenteral tranexamic acid (TA) in reducing the postoperative blood loss and blood transfusion requirements and its impact on incidence of DVT in the postoperative period after TKA. Patients and Methods: We did a prospective, randomised, double blind study on 130 patients who underwent primary unilateral cemented total knee arthroplasty between May 2016 and May 2017 at our institution. Patients were randomized into two groups: the study group received tranexamic acid intravenously (15 mg/kg) 10 minutes before inflation of the tourniquet and 3 hours postoperatively while the control group received a similar volume of normal saline (placebo) at similar timings. We measured the reduction in hemoglobin levels at 24 hours postoperatively, total volume of blood drained at 24 hours postoperatively, amount of blood transfused, and number of patients requiring allogenic blood transfusion in the initial two days of surgery. All patients were screened for DVT with duplex ultrasound assessment of both legs on the third post-operative day. The minimum follow up was 6 months (mean, 10.4 months; range, 6–12 months).Results: We found a statistically significant (p

Study on preventive and therapeutic effects of Erzhi Pills on mice with Parkinson's disease induced by MPTP

The aim of this study was to investigate the preventive and therapeutic effects of Erzhi Pills on 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine( MPTP)-induced Parkinson's disease( PD) in mice,and explore its possible mechanism of action. Mice were intraperitoneally injected with MPTP( 30 mg·kg-1,0. 01 m L·g-1) once daily to induce PD for 8 days. In the treatment group,Erzhi Pills were given by intragastric administration( 2. 5 g·kg-1,once daily for 30 days). The normal group received an equal volume of normalsaline. In terms of behavior,the limb movement coordination ability of the mice was detected by climbing,hanging and swimming experiments. The spatial learning and memory ability of the mice was detected by Morris water maze test. The content of MDA,as well as the activity of GSH-PX and SOD were determined in mice serum. Western blot was used to detect the protein expression levels of TH,MAOB and apoptosis-related factors CHOP and caspase-12 in brain tissues. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of TH in section of brain tissues in mice. The results showed that in behavioral aspects,as compared with the model group,the scores of limb movement ability as well as scores of spatial learning and memory ability were significantly improved in the treatment groups( P<0. 05). In terms of serological indicators,as compared with the model group,the activities of SOD and GSH-PX were significantly increased in the serum of treatment groups,and the content of MDA was significantly decreased( P<0. 05). The results of Western blot showed that as compared with the model group,the protein levels of TH in the brain tissues of the mice in treatment group were significantly up-regulated,while the protein levels of MAOB and apoptosis-related factors CHOP and caspase-12 were significantly down-regulated( P<0. 05). The results of immunohistochemistry showed that the number of TH positive cells in the brain tissues of the mice in the treatment group was significantly increased as compared with the model group( P<0. 05). In summary,Erzhi Pills have a certain preventive and therapeutic effect on MPTP-induced PD mice,which can significantly improve the limb motor coordination ability and spatial learning and memory ability of PD mice. Its mechanism may be related to down-regulating the expression of apoptosis-related factors CHOP and caspase-12,reducing the dopaminergic neuron damage and inhibiting dopaminergic neuronal apoptosis.

Impact of Sub-Anesthetic Dose of Ketamine on Post Spinal Hypotension in Cesarean Delivery

Background: Spinal anesthesia is the commonest technique used in Cesarean Section (CS) and most frequently associated with maternal hypotension, for which a lot of techniques have been described to prevent but an effective method is yet to be found. Objectives; The aim was to study the effect of using a sub-anesthetic dose of ketamine to prevent post-spinal hypotension in CS delivery. Methods: This double-blinded randomized controlled study was conducted on 80 participating parturients who were ASA І, П term pregnant. All the parturients received spinal anesthesia. The parturients were then randomly divided into two equal groups (n= 40 in each); ketamine group received a sub-anesthetic dose of ketamine of 0.5 mg/kg IV bolus in 3 ml saline and control group received the same volume of normal saline IV bolus. Heart Rate (HR) and Mean Arterial blood Pressure (MAP) were recorded at baseline (5 minutes prior to the intrathecal injection), at 5, 10, 15 and 20 minutes after the injection and then every 15 minutes till the end of the operation. Incidences of hypotension and severe hypotension were recorded. The total dose of ephedrine was recorded. Ramsay sedation score was recorded at baseline then 5, 10, 15, 30, 45 minutes after injection and then at the end of the operation. Results: Compared to the control group, sedation score was significantly higher among ketamine group at 5, 10 and 15 minutes. MAP and HR were significantly higher among ketamine group at 5, 10, 15, and 20 minutes. Total ephedrine dose was significantly lower among the ketamine group. Mild hypotension and severe hypotension were significantly less frequent among the ketamine group, as all the patients in the control group had an attack of mild hypotension and 55% of this group had an attack of severe hypotension. No significant difference between both the groups regarding diplopia, nystagmus, hallucination, nausea and vomiting. Conclusion: It is concluded that ketamine in a sub-anesthetic dose is an effective agent that can be used in preventing post-spinal hypotension in parturients undergoing CS delivery.

Effects of autologous platelet-rich plasma in the repair of soft tissue defects of rabbits with free flap

Objective: To explore the effects of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in the repair of soft tissue defects of rabbits with free flap. Methods: Thirty 6-month-old New Zealand white rabbits, male and female unlimited, were used to harvest blood from the heart. PRP was prepared by Aghaloo method, then free flap model with size of 5 cm×3 cm was reproduced on each ear of the rabbit. According to the random number table, one ear of each rabbit was recruited to PRP group, and the other ear was recruited to normal saline group. The base of flap on rabbit ear in PRP group was evenly spread with 1.0 mL autologous PRP, and equivalent volume of normal saline was applied to that in normal saline group. Then, the flap was replanted in situ. On post surgery day (PSD) 2, 3, 5, 7, and 14, 6 rabbits in each group were taken. The survival of flap was observed and recorded. The morphology of the basal tissue of flap was observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. The expressions of CD31 and α smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) in the basal tissue of flap were detected by immunofluorescence method. Another 6-month-old male New Zealand white rabbit without making flap under the same experimental conditions was used for harvesting whole blood and preparing PRP. Then blood platelet count in whole blood and PRP was determined, and the content of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) was detected by double-antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data were processed with analysis of variance of factorial design, paired sample t test, and Bonferroni correction. Results: (1) On PSD 2, the flaps of wounds of rabbits in PRP group were reddish and adhered well to the basal tissue; the flaps of wounds of rabbits in normal saline group were dark red and poorly attached to the basal tissue. On PSD 3, the flaps of wounds of rabbits in PRP group were ruddy and closely adhered to the basal tissue; the flaps of wounds of rabbits in normal saline group were scattered in the plaque-like dark red and generally attached to the base. On PSD 5, the flaps of wounds of rabbits in PRP group were reddish and closely adhered to the basal tissue, and the flaps were alive; while flaps of wounds of rabbits in normal saline group were rosy and closely adhered to the basal tissue. On PSD 7, the surface of flaps of wounds of rabbits in PRP group was covered with a medium amount of rabbit hair. The color of flap was similar to that of the surrounding skin. The flaps of wounds of rabbits in normal saline group were generally attached to the base, and the surface was only covered with a small amount of fluff. On PSD 14, the incisions were healed well in PRP group, while small wounds in normal saline group were not healed. (2) On PSD 2, inflammatory cell infiltration was observed in flaps of wounds of rabbits in both groups. On PSD 3, the flaps of wounds of rabbits in PRP group showed neovascularization, with less interstitial hemorrhage; while there were less neovascularization in the flaps of wounds of rabbits in normal saline group. On PSD 5, a medium number of inflammatory cell infiltration and a small amount of new microvessels were observed in flaps of wounds of rabbits in normal saline group. Many fibroblasts, a small amount of inflammatory cells, and scattered new microvessels were observed in flaps of wounds of rabbits in PRP group. On PSD 7, the number of new microvessels in normal saline group was significantly lower than that in PRP group. On PSD 14, the new microvessels in the flaps of wounds of rabbits in PRP group gradually matured, and a large number of fibroblasts distributed around them. Some of the newly formed microvessels in the flaps of wounds of rabbits in normal saline group were mature, and the healing was slower than that of PRP group. (3) On PSD 2, 3, 5, 7, and 14, the expressions of CD31 and α-SMA in the basal tissue of flaps of wounds of rabbits in PRP group were significantly higher than those in normal saline group (t=10.133, 5.444, 9.450, 6.986, 8.394, 14.896, 10.328, 9.295, 13.902, 10.814, P<0.01). (4) The platelet count in activated PRP of rabbits was (2 863±962)×10(9)/L, which was significantly higher than (393±49)×10(9)/L in whole blood (t=7.690, P<0.05). (5) The content of VEGF and TGF-β in activated PRP of rabbits was (564.3±3.2) and (1 143±251) pg/mL, which was significantly higher than (99.7±0.4) and (274±95) pg/mL in whole blood, respectively (t=287.390, 9.648, P<0.05 or P<0.01). Conclusions: PRP of rabbits contains high concentrations of VEGF and TGF-β. Therefore, PRP can effectively promote microvascular regeneration in free flap tissue and accelerate the survival of free flap.

You-Gui-Yin improved the reproductive dysfunction of male rats with chronic kidney disease via regulating the HIF1α-STAT5 pathway.

You-Gui-Yin (YGY) is a famous Chinese traditional medicine compound that has been used to treat renal function diseases for more than 300 years. It is recorded in Jing Yue Quanshu, which was written by a famous medical scientist named Jiebing Zhang in the Ming Dynasty. Reproductive dysfunction is one of the most serious complications of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The aim of this study was to observe the effect of You-Gui-Yin (YGY) on reproductive dysfunction of male rats with adenine-induced CKD and to determine if any effects occurred via regulation of the HIF1α-STAT5 pathway. UPLC-Q-TOF-MS was used to detect the main medicinal components and conduct quality control of YGY. A total of 60 rats were randomly divided into 2 groups: the NC group (10 rats) and the CKD model group (50 rats). The CKD model rats was established by administration of adenine 150 mg kg-1 orally for 14 days. After that, the CKD rats were randomly divided into 5 groups: the CKD group, YGY (10 g kg-1 group, 20 g kg-1 group, 40 g kg-1 group) and the GUI-LU-ER-XIAN-JIAO (GL) 10 g kg-1 group with 10 rats in each group. From the 15th day to the 45th day rats were given 150 mg kg-1 adenine orally every other day to maintain the model (except in the NC group). The YGY groups and the GL group were orally administered the relevant drug once per day for 30 days. The NC group and the CKD group were orally administered an equal volume of normal saline for 30 days. On the 45th day, the rats' sexual behavior index was tested. On the 46th day, the rats were sacrificed. Biochemical indexes, histopathological changes of the kidneys and testes, sperm morphology, sperm abnormality rate, and key proteins in the HIF1α-STAT5 pathway in the kidney and testis were detected. Thirteen components in the YGY extract were identified by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS for quality control of the YGY extract. The results of the biochemical and physiological tests validated the success of inducing CKD accompanied by reproductive dysfunction in rats. YGY significantly retarded the CKD progression and improved the hormone levels of male CKD rats. Sexual behavior tests showed YGY can significantly improve CKD rats' sexual function. In addition, the pathological changes of the kidney and testis, sperm abnormality rate and sperm morphological abnormalities of the CKD rats were reduced by YGY. Furthermore, decreased expression of HIF1α and EPO, and increased expression of p-EPOR (Tyr368), p-JAK2 (Tyr570) and p-STAT5 (Ser725) were observed in the kidney and the testis of the CKD rats. The YGY extract dramatically increased the expression of HIF1α and EPO, and decreased the expression of p-EPOR (Tyr368), p-JAK2 (Tyr570) and p-STAT5 (Ser725) to regulate key proteins in the HIF1α-STAT5 pathway of the kidney and testis. YGY has obvious reversal effects on the abnormal symptoms of adenine-induced CKD and the abnormal symptoms of rats with hypothyroidism and male reproductive hypotension. Its mechanism is related to its ability to regulate the HIF1α-STAT5 pathway.

Antagonistic Effect of Cuscuta chinensis on a Rat Model with Unilateral Cryptorchidism.

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Cuscuta chinensis Lam. on germ cell apoptosis in a rat model of unilateral cryptorchidism.Material/MethodsThirty male SD rats were randomly and equally divided into a control group, a model group, and a Cuscuta group (5.0 g/kg/d) (n=10). The rat model of unilateral cryptorchidism in the model and Cuscuta groups was established by removal of the right gubernaculum, while rats in the control group received no treatment. After modeling, rats in the Cuscuta chinensis group were intragastrically administered Cuscuta chinensis extract (5.0 g/kg/d), while rats in the control group and model group were administered an equal volume of normal saline. After 90 days, all the rats were sacrificed and the testicles were separated and weighed, followed by TUNEL staining to detect germ cell apoptosis, flow cytometry to measure JC-1, ROS, and MDA, and Western blot analysis to evaluate the expression of Bax, Bcl-2, and cleaved caspase3.ResultsNinety days after the operation, Cuscuta chinensis Lam significantly minimized the damage caused by modeling by increasing weight of testis, reducing the germ cell apoptosis, and enhancing the mitochondrial membrane potential of testicles, as shown by levels of JC-1, ROS, and MDA, as well as elevating the level of Bcl-2/Bax and reducing the level of cleaved caspase3 (P<0.05).ConclusionsTreatment with Cuscuta chinensis Lam reduced the germ cell apoptosis in rats with unilateral cryptorchidism, which provides new insight for the development of cryptorchidism therapy in the future.

Acute Hepatorenal Dose Dependent Toxicity of Teucrium Polium Hydro Alcoholic Extract in Rat

Background Based on vast usage of teucrium polium (TP) in alternative medicine of developing countries for treatment of ailments in children and adults, this study is designed to examine acute hydro alcoholic extract of TP effects in different doses on rat liver and kidney functions and tissue structures. Materials and Methods Animals were given daily intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of TP at 3, 10, 30, 100, and 200 mg/kg or equal volume of normal saline for a week. One-hour postprandial blood glucose at day 1 and day 7, liver enzymes, serum creatinine (Cr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and hepatorenal tissues were examined at the end of the study. Animal body weights were also measured on a daily basis. Results TP at 3, 10, 30 and 100 mg/kg body weight didnot affect functional and structural characteristics in rat liver and kidney tissues compared with control animals. However, at high 200 mg/kg dose, it provoked liver and kidney tissue damages together with significant rise in aspartate aminotransferase (p<0.001), alanine aminotransferase (p=0.001), Cr (p=0.001), and BUN (p=0.001). Animal body weight in each group under TP pretreatment protocol unchanged during the study except at high 200 mg/kg which showed a significant weight loss (p<0.001). Conclusion TP detrimental health effects especially on liver and kidney tissues are frequently overemphasized, but in adose-dependent manner. However, we also believe TP has potential medical benefits and can find a way to the medical arena if thorough conducted researches can determine its toxic components and isolate appropriate derivatives for ensuing use.

Role of hippocampal mast cells in early postoperative cognitive impairment in rats

Objective To evaluate the role of hippocampal mast cells in the early postoperative cognitive impairment in rats. Methods Eighty male Sprague-Dawley rats, aged 6-8 weeks, weighing 200-250 g, were divided into 4 groups (n=20 each) using a random number table method: normal saline control group (group C), cromolyn injected into lateral cerebral ventricle group (group L), operation group (group O), and cromolyn injected into lateral cerebral ventricle plus operation group (group LO). Cromolyn 2 μl (100 μg/ul) was intracerebroventricularly injected in L and LO groups.The equal volume of normal saline was given instead in C and O groups.Open reduction and internal fixation was performed after tibial fracture was induced 30 min later in O and LO groups.Contextual fear conditioning and Y-maze tests were performed at 1 and 3 days after operation, and the freezing time and the number of learning trails were recorded.The animals were then sacrificed, and hippocampal tissues were obtained for determination of activated mast cell count (by toluidine blue staining) and expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) mRNA (by polymerase chain reaction). Results Compared with group C, the number of learning trails was significantly increased, and the freezing time was shortened, the number of activated mast cells in hippocampi was increased, and the expression of IL-1β mRNA was up-regulated at 1 and 3 days after operation, and the expression of TNF-α mRNA was up-regulated at 1 day after operation in group O(P 0.05). Compared with group O, the number of learning trails was significantly decreased, and the freezing time was prolonged, the number of activated mast cells in hippocampi was decreased, and the expression of IL-1β mRNA in hippocampi was down-regulated at 1 and 3 days after operation, and the expression of TNF-α mRNA in hippocampi was down-regulated at 1 day after operation in group LO (P<0.05). Conclusion Activation of hippocampal mast cells can induce central inflammatory responses and is involved in the mechanism of early postoperative cognitive impairment in rats. Key words: Mast cell; Inflammation; Cognition disorders; Postoperative complications

Effect of exogenous insulin on endoplasmic reticulum stress in myocardial tissues during insulin resistance in rabbits undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass

Objective To evaluate the effect of exogenous insulin on endoplasmic reticulum stress in myocardial tissues during insulin resistance in the rabbits undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Methods Forty healthy adult New Zealand white rabbits of both sexes, weighing 2.5-3.0 kg, were divided into 4 groups (n=10 each) using a random number table method: control group (group C), CPB group, CPB plus insulin group (group I) and CPB plus normal saline group (group NS). Group C received no treatment.An insulin resistance model was established in group CPB.Insulin was continuously infused (the infusion rate was adjusted according to the blood glucose) starting from establishing CPB to 1 day after operation in group I. The equal volume of normal saline was given starting from establishing CPB to 1 day after operation in group NS.Blood samples were collected from the left femoral artery, and myocardial tissues obtained before CPB (T1) and at 15, 30 and 60 min after aortic opening (T2-4). The level of blood glucose was determined using oxidase method, the level of glucagon was detected by the radioimmunoassay method, and the insulin resistance index was calculated.The expression of inositol-requiring protein-1α(IRE1α), XBP1 and caspase-12 was measured by Western blot.The expression of IRE1α, XBP1 and caspase-12 mRNA was measured by fluorescent quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction.Cell apoptosis was detected by TUNEL. Results Compared with group C, blood glucose and glucagon levels at T2-4 and insulin resistance index at T4 were significantly increased, and the expression of inositol-requiring protein-1α(IRE1α), XBP1 and caspase-12 protein and mRNA was up-regulated at T4 in CPB, I and NS groups (P<0.05). Compared with group CPB, blood glucose and glucagon levels at T2-4 and insulin resistance index at T4 were significantly decreased, and the expression of IRE1α, XBP1 and caspase-12 protein and mRNA was down-regulated at T4 in group I (P<0.05). Conclusion Exogenous insulin significantly improves insulin resistance in myocardial tissues, and the mechanism is related to inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress and reducing cell apoptosis in the rabbits undergoing CPB. Key words: Insulin; Extracorporeal circulation; Myocardium; Insulin resistance; Endoplasmic recticulum stress

Effect of deferoxamine on hyperoxic lung injury in rats

Objective To evaluate the effect of deferoxamine on hyperoxic lung injury in rats. Methods Twenty-four adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, weighing 170-230 g, were divided into 3 groups (n=8 each) using a random number table method: hyperoxia group (group H), deferoxamine group (group D) and air control group (group C). Mechanical ventilation was performed after tracheal intubation, group C inhaled air, and H and D groups inhaled 90% oxygen.Deferoxamine 50 mg·kg-1·h-1 was continuously infused via the tail vein for 4 h via the tail vein at the same time of mechanical ventilation in group D. The equal volume of normal saline was infused in H and C groups.At 4 h of mechanical ventilation, lungs were removed for examination of pathological changes of lung tissues and for determination of wet/dry weight ratio (W/D ratio) and levels of pulmonary surfactant protein C (SP-C), xanthine oxidase (XOD) and glutathione reductase (GR) in lung tissues and broncho-alveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Compared with group C, the pathological score of lung tissues and W/D ratio were significantly increased, the levels of SP-C and GR in lung tissues and BALF were decreased, and the level of XOD in lung tissues and BALF was increased in H and D groups (P<0.05). Compared with group H, the pathological score of lung tissues and W/D ratio were significantly decreased, the levels of SP-C and GR in lung tissues and BALF were increased, and the level of XOD in lung tissues and BALF was decreased in group D (P<0.05). Conclusion Deferoxamine can inhibit oxidative stress response and alleviate hyperoxic lung injury in rats. Key words: Deferoxamine; Hyperoxia; Lung injury

Effect of dexmedetomidine on postoperative cognitive function in patients with mild hyperbilirubinemia caused by choledocholithiasis

Objective To evaluate the effect of dexmedetomidine on postoperative cognitive function in the patients with mild hyperbilirubinemia caused by choledocholithiasis. Methods One hundred and twenty patients of both sexes with mild hyperbilirubinemia (serum total bilirubin levels 21-170 μmol/L) caused by choledocholithiasis, aged 51-63 yr, with body mass index of 20-28 kg/m2, of American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status Ⅱ or Ⅲ, with preoperative Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores≥20, scheduled for elective cholecystectomy and choledocholithotomy, were divided into 3 groups (n=40 each) using a random number table method: control group (C group) and dexmedetomindine 0.4 μg·kg-1·h-1 group (D1 group) and dexmedetomindine 0.6 μg·kg-1·h-1 group (D2 group). After induction of anesthesia, dexmedetomidine was intravenously infused for 10 min in a loading dose of 0.5 μg/kg, followed by an infusion of 0.4 and 0.6 μg·kg-1·h-1 until the end of operation in D1 and D2 groups, respectively.The equal volume of normal saline was given instead in group C. with preoperative scores≥20, MMSE and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) were used to assess the cognitive function at 1 day before operation (T0) and 1, 3, 5 and 7 days after operation (T1-4). The occurrence of cognitive dysfunction within 7 days after operation was recorded.Venous blood samples were collected at the time points mentioned above, and the plasma concentrations of β-amyloid (Aβ) 42 were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Compared with group C, MoCA scores were significantly increased at T1 in group D1, and MMSE scores at T1 and MoCA scores at T1 and T2 were significantly increased, and the plasma concentrations of Aβ42 were decreased at T2-4 in group D2, and the incidence of cognitive dysfunction was significantly decreased in D1 and D2 groups (P<0.05). Compared with group D1, MoCA scores were significantly increased at T1, and the plasma concentrations of Aβ42 were decreased at T2-4 in group D2 (P<0.05). Conclusion Dexmedetomidine can improve postoperative cognitive function, and intravenous infusion at a rate of 0.6 μg·kg-1 · h-1 provides better efficacy for the patients with mild hyperbilirubinemia caused by choledocholithiasis. Key words: Dexmedetomidine; Cognition disorders; Postoperative complications; Hyperbilirubinemia; Cholelithiasis

Toxicity-reducing effect of compatibility of Tripterygium and licorice in animals: systematic review

The aim of this paper was to systematically evaluate the toxicity-reducing effect of Tripterygium-licorice in animal experiments,and also to provide evidence for basic research on the toxicity reduction of Tripterygium wilfordii. The PubMed,EMbase,Web of Science,CBM,CNKI and Wan Fang Databases from their establishment to August 31 th,2018 were searched. Two independent reviewers screened the papers,extracted the data,assessed the risk of bias using SYRCLE assessment tool and conducted Meta-analysis with Rev Man 5. 3 software. A total of 10 papers involving 31 studies were finally included,15 studies of which were used for Meta-analysis. Four studies were included for chronic hepatotoxicity animal model. In experimental group( 34 animals),Tripterygium was administered at dose of 0. 09-0. 1 mg·kg-1·d-1,and glycyrrhizic acid was administered at dose of 90-100 mg·kg-1,both for 2 weeks; in control group( 34 animals),glycyrrhizic acid was replaced with equal volume of normal saline. Eleven studies were included for acute hepatotoxicity animal model. In experimental group( 66 animals),glycyrrhizic acid was administered at dose of 75-480 mg·kg-1 for 7 days,then glycyrrhizic acid was stopped,and Tripterygium began to be administered at dose of 0. 6-1. 0 mg·kg-1 per 24 h or 48 h for a total of 1-2 times; in control group( 66 animals),glycyrrhizic acid was replaced with equal volume of normal saline or corresponding solvent. The results of Meta-analysis showed that in both chronic hepatotoxicity animal model and acute hepatotoxicity animal model,the transaminase levels in the experimental group were lower than those in the control group( P < 0. 05). Subgroup analysis of acute hepatotoxicity animal model showed that the transaminase levels in the experimental group were lower than those in the control group for every subgroup except " glycyrrhizic acid 75 mg·kg-1" subgroup. However,in terms of the mean difference( MD) and confidence interval( CI),there was no significant difference in transaminase decline between each subgroup. Low dose of glycyrrhizic acid( 90-100 mg·kg-1) has a toxicity-reduction effect on chronic hepatotoxicity induced by tripterygium( 0. 09-0. 10 mg·kg-1). Middle and high doses of glycyrrhizic acid( 120-480 mg·kg-1) have a toxicity-reduction effect on acute hepatotoxicity induced by tripterygium( 0. 6-1. 0 mg·kg-1),but with no significant dose-effect relationship.