[Application of Delphi method and analytic hierarchy process to construct the evaluation index system of healthy enterprises]

Objective: Explore the application of Delphi method and analytic hierarchy process to explore the construction of scientific, objective and comprehensive evaluation index system for healthy enterprise construction and promote the construction of healthy enterprises. Methods: In October 2022, through Delphi expert consultation and analytic hierarchy process, the indexes were screened and the weights of the indexes were determined, and the evaluation index system of healthy enterprises was established. Results: The positive coefficients of experts in the two rounds were all 100.00%, the authority coefficient of experts was 0.82, the coefficients of variation of the indexes in the two rounds were all less than 0.30. The coordination coefficients of experts in the first and second rounds were 0.64 and 0.77, respectively (P<0.001) . After two rounds of Delphi method expert consultation, a healthy enterprise evaluation index system including 4 first-level indexes, 14 second-level indexes, and 63 third-level indexes was constructed. Conclusion: The constructed health enterprise evaluation index system is highly scientific and reliable, covering the main factors of healthy enterprise construction, and providing a reliable and quantifiable basis and self-assessment basis for the establishment of healthy enterprises.

[A retrospective cohort study of the postoperative prothesis-related complications of single-port endoscopic assisted versus open surgery on nipple sparing mastectomy and immediate prosthesis breast reconstruction]

Objective: To examine the postoperative prosthesis-related complications, short-term surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction with breast reconstruction between patients who underwent endoscopic assisted versus conventional nipple sparing mastectomy and immediate prothesis breast reconstruction. Methods: This study was a retrospective cohort study. A retrospective analysis was performed on clinical data of 104 women with breast cancer who received nipple sparing mastectomy and immediate prothesis breast reconstruction from August 2021 to August 2022 at the Breast Tumor Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University. They were divided into two groups according to the surgical approach. A total of 53 patients, aged (43.3±9.9) years (range: 25 to 66 years), underwent endoscopic nipple sparing mastectomy (E-NSM group) and immediate prothesis breast reconstruction. The other 51 patients aged (39.9±7.8) years (range: 25 to 54 years) underwent conventional open surgery (C-NSM group). Short-term surgical outcomes including operation time, postoperative hospital stay, postoperative blood loss, and postoperative drainage volume in 2 days were recorded. Patient satisfaction with breast reconstruction was compared using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. Postoperative prothesis-related complications were investigated to determine the experience to deal with them. Results: No postoperative prosthesis-related infection, prosthesis loss, or necrosis of the nipple-areola complex occurred in the E-NSM group, while 1 patient suffered from hematoma, whose wound was skinned with resuture after disinfection. Five patients in the C-NSM group had prosthesis-related infection, 2 of them received prosthesis removal surgery combined with sufficient antimicrobial agent, another one underwent surgery for subcutaneous placement of the drain, as well as antimicrobial agent therapy, and the rest of them healed up only with antimicrobial agent therapy. All recovered well after treatment. One patient recovered from necrosis of the nipple-areola complex through periodic iodophor disinfection and dressing which ended in improvement of necrotic areas, another patient who had hematoma accepted the same treatment mentioned above and also healed. All the patients mentioned above are now in stable conditions. Patients in the E-NSM group had higher satisfaction with the cosmetic results of the breast prosthesis implant than those in the C-NSM group (Z=-4.511, P<0.01). Conclusions: Both surgical approaches were proven to be safe and effective with a low rate of postoperative prosthesis-related complications. Patients in the E-NSM group were more satisfied with the cosmetic results of breast reconstruction than those in the C-NSM group.

Molecular rectification induced by magnetization alignment in organic-ferromagnetic devices

Spin-dependent transport in ferromagnet/organic-ferromagnet/ferromagnet junctions is investigated theoretically under different alignment of magnetization orientations. The results demonstrate a significant current rectification at low bias voltages, and the rectifying direction relies on the relative magnetization orientation in each component. The orbital analysis demonstrates two underlying mechanisms for the rectification, the slight structural asymmetry of the molecule from spin radicals and distinct spin match between conducting electrons and the magnetic molecule upon the reversal of bias. The latter is responsible for the strong low-bias rectification and relies on the magnetization alignment. The effects of parameter strength, temperature and size on the rectification are discussed. This work explores a new route to achieve high-performance molecular rectifiers operating at low bias with controlled rectifying direction.

Assessing inter-intraspecific variability of leaf vulnerability to embolism for 10 alpine Rhododendron species growing in Southwestern China

Alpine Rhododendron species are prominent constituents and renowned ornamental plants in alpine ecosystems. Consequently, evaluating the genetic variation in embolism resistance within the genus Rhododendron and predicting their adaptability to future climate change is important. Nevertheless, the assessment of embolism resistance in Rhododendron species remains limited. This investigation aimed to examine leaf vulnerability to embolism across ten alpine Rhododendron species, which are frequently employed as ornamental species in Rhododendron forests in Southwest China. The study analyzed the correlation between embolism resistance and various morphological traits, while also conducting water control experiments to evaluate the relationship between embolism resistance and drought resistance. The outcomes indicated pronounced variations in leaf vulnerability to embolism among species, as reflected by the water potential at 50% of embolized pixels (P50 ). Furthermore, the leaf P50 exhibited a significant positive correlation with vessel diameter (D) (R2  = 0.44, P = 0.03) and vessel wall span (b) (R2  = 0.64, P = 0.005), while displaying a significant negative correlation with vessel reinforcement ((t/b)2 ) (R2  = 0.67, P = 0.004). These findings underscore the reliability of selecting species based on embolism vulnerability to preserve the diversity of alpine ecosystems and foster resilience to climate change.

Nuclear magnetic resonance-based metabolomic study of rat serum after anterior cruciate ligament injury

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, a common sports injury, is associated with a high risk of subsequent osteoarthritis (OA), which can cause serious pain and disability. Understanding the detailed mechanism underlying the predisposition of knee with ACL injury to secondary OA at an early stage is key to preventing future degradation and progression to a clinically significant disease. A total of 56 male Sprague Dawley rats (age, 8 weeks; weight, 180-220 g) were randomly divided into three experimental groups: control, ACL transection (ACLT; where surgical procedure was performed with ACLT), and sham (where surgical procedure was performed without ACLT). The ACLT and sham groups were further divided into three subgroups based on when the rats were sacrificed: 4, 8, and 12 weeks after the surgical procedure. The control group and the aforementioned subgroups contained 8 rats each. We used nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomic analysis to analyze rat serum samples for the metabolic characteristics and the underlying mechanisms. In total, 28 metabolites were identified in the NMR spectra of the rat sera. At 4 and 8 weeks postoperatively, the sham group demonstrated metabolic profiles different from those of the ACLT group. However, this difference was not observed 12 weeks postoperatively. In total, five metabolites (acetate, succinate, sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine, glucose, and phenylalanine) and five metabolic pathways (phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis; phenylalanine metabolism; pyruvate metabolism; starch and sucrose metabolism; and histidine metabolism) demonstrated significant differences between the ACLT and sham groups. ACL injury was noted to considerably affect biochemical homeostasis and metabolism; however, these metabolic changes persisted briefly. Moreover, glucose was a characteristic metabolite, and several energy-related metabolic pathways were significantly disturbed. Therefore, an ACL injury may lead to considerable impairments in energy metabolism. Abnormal glucose levels facilitate chondrocyte function impairment and thereby lead to OA progression. Furthermore, lactate may aid in identifying metabolic changes specific to knee trauma not related to an ACL injury. Overall, the metabolic changes in rat serum after an ACL injury were closely related to disturbances in energy metabolism and amino acid metabolism. The current results may aid in understanding the pathogenesis of posttraumatic osteoarthritis.

[Progress in surgical treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma with tumor thrombus in the inferior vena cava]

Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) is one of the most common malignancies of the digestive system,which is prone to be associated with microvascular or macrovascular invasion. Among them,HCC with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus(IVCTT) or right atrium tumor thrombus(RATT) is rare and has a poor prognosis. However,surgical treatment of HCC with IVCTT and (or) RATT is rarely reported and summarized. The review described the classification of HCC tumor thrombus with IVCTT and (or) RATT, summarized the progress of surgical approaches and surgical operations,and introduced a case of thrombectomy after pushing from the outer surface of the atrium,rendering the RATT to the inferior vena cava under non-cardiopulmonary bypass. The review also proposed the prospective treatments for HCC with IVCTT or RATT,providing clinical guidance to hepatobiliary surgeons.

[The clinical value of radical resection of retroperitoneal lipo-lymphatic layer for pancreatic head cancer]

Objective: To investigate the clinical value of the novel approach,radical resection of the retroperitoneal lipo-lymphatic layer (RRRLLL),in the surgical treatment of resectable pancreatic head cancer. Methods: Between June 2020 and June 2022,a total of 221 patients with pancreatic head cancer underwent surgical treatment using the RRRLLL approach(RRRLLL group),while 107 patients received traditional surgical treatment(traditional group) in five high-volume pancreatic centers in China. Data from surgical technique and clinical perioperative outcomes,including lymph node harvested,surgical time,and complications,were analyzed. The RRRLLL group consisted of 144 males and 77 females with an age of (67.5±9.0) years(range:41.3 to 81.1 years). The traditional group included 71 males and 36 females,with an age of (66.3±8.1) years(range:45.1 to 79.2 years). Statistical analysis was performed using the K-S test,Z test,or χ2 test. Results: Pancreaticoduodenectomy was performed successfully in all patients,achieving R0 resection. RRRLLL group surgery required mobilization of retroperitoneal adipose and lymphatic tissues starting from the right edge of the inferior vena cava and extending to the left side,up to the superior mesenteric artery,down to the inferior mesenteric artery,and left to the left side of the aorta,including the perineural and lymphatic tissues around the superior mesenteric artery and the sheath of the mesenteric artery. However,the traditional group did not include the areas mentioned above in the scope of clearance. There were no statistically significant differences between the RRRLLL group and the traditional group in terms of age,sex,tumor size,T stage,and vascular invasion (all P>0.05). However,the number of lymph nodes harvested in the RRRLLL group was significantly higher at 28.7±9.0 (range: 18 to 39) compared to 18.2±8.0 (range: 12 to 21) in the traditional group (Z=-10.691,P<0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in the number of positive lymph nodes,N staging,and postoperative complications between the two groups. Conclusion: The RRRLLL approach improved lymph node dissection compared to the traditional approach,potentially leading to reduced recurrence rates.

[Hemophagocytic syndrome secondary to COVID-19: a case report and literature review]

Objective: To improve the awareness of hemophagocytic syndrome(HPS) secondary to COVID-19 (COVID-sHPS). Methods: We reported an adult case of COVID-sHPS, including clinical presentation, laboratory examinations, histopathological findings, treatment strategy, and outcome. We also conducted literature research in PubMed database and Wanfang database using the keywords "COVID-19" and "hemophagocytic syndrome" and subsequently summarized relevant literature. Results: A 49-year-old man was admitted to our hospital after 4 weeks of recurrent fever. Prior to this hospitalization, he had received an empiric combination therapy with antibiotics and antiviral drugs against SARS-CoV-2. His vital signs were within the normal range and no abnormalities were found on physical examination on admission. After admission, throat swab nucleic acid tests were weakly positive for SARS-CoV-2, and negative for influenza and respiratory syncytial virus. Blood nucleic acid tests for cytomegalovirus and EB virus were negative, as was blood mNGS. Laboratory tests showed a series of abnormalities, including leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, low fibrinogen, elevated serum ferritin, elevated transaminase, decreased NK cell activity, and hemophagocytosis in bone marrow. According to the HPS-2004 diagnostic criteria, he was diagnosed with hemophagocytic syndrome, which was high likely to be caused by COVID-19 infection due to the lack of evidence of genetic risk factors and other clear triggers. He was initially treated with dexamethasone at a dose of 10 mg·m-2·d-1 and his condition improved rapidly. The literature search identified twenty-three articles on COVID-sHPS, 22 of which were in English. A total of 89 patients had COVID-sHPS and 55 (61.7%) were male. COVID-sHPS could occur at any age, but mainly in adults (86/89, 96%). Fever was reported in the literature with a clear description of the course of the disease. Most HPS occurred during the acute phase of COVID-19, but 3 patients developed HPS during the convalescent phase. Almost all reported cases presented with increased ferritin, elevated transaminases, elevated triglycerides, and cytopenia, mainly anemia and thrombocytopenia. In the retrieved literature, HS-score≥169 was frequently used to diagnose COVID-sHPS, and glucocorticoid in combination with immunoglobulin was the most common treatment strategy. COVID-sHPS had a poor prognosis and a high mortality rate (84.2%, 75/89). Conclusions: The prognosis of COVID-sHPS is poor, so clinicians should raise their awareness of the disease, identify high-risk suspected populations, and arrange reasonable relevant examinations for definite diagnosis and early initial treatment to improve their outcome.

Early and Late Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Responses of Rhododendron 'Xiaotaohong' Petals to Infection with Alternaria sp

In recent years, petal blight disease caused by pathogens has become increasingly epidemic in Rhododendron. Breeding disease-resistant rhododendron is considered to be a more environmentally friendly strategy than is the use of chemical reagents. In this study, we aimed to investigate the response mechanisms of rhododendron varieties to petal blight, using transcriptomics and metabolomics analyses. Specifically, we monitored changes in gene expression and metabolite accumulation in Rhododendron 'Xiaotaohong' petals infected with the Alternaria sp. strain (MR-9). The infection of MR-9 led to the development of petal blight and induced significant changes in gene transcription. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were predominantly enriched in the plant-pathogen interaction pathway. These DEGs were involved in carrying out stress responses, with genes associated with H2O2 production being up-regulated during the early and late stages of infection. Correspondingly, H2O2 accumulation was detected in the vicinity of the blight lesions. In addition, defense-related genes, including PR and FRK, exhibited significant up-regulated expression during the infection by MR-9. In the late stage of the infection, we also observed significant changes in differentially abundant metabolites (DAMs), including flavonoids, alkaloids, phenols, and terpenes. Notably, the levels of euscaphic acid, ganoderol A, (-)-cinchonidine, and theophylline in infected petals were 21.8, 8.5, 4.5, and 4.3 times higher, respectively, compared to the control. Our results suggest that H2O2, defense-related genes, and DAM accumulation are involved in the complex response mechanisms of Rhododendron 'Xiaotaohong' petals to MR-9 infection. These insights provide a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of petal blight disease and may have practical implications for developing disease-resistant rhododendron varieties.

[Application of membrane anatomy in hepatopancreatobiliary and splenic surgery]

Understanding of a variety of membranous structures throughout the body,such as the fascia,the serous membrane,is of great importance to surgeons. This is especially valuable in abdominal surgery. With the rise of membrane theory in recent years,membrane anatomy has been widely recognized in the treatment of abdominal tumors,especially of gastrointestinal tumors. In clinical practice. The appropriate choice of intramembranous or extramembranous anatomy is appropriate to achieve precision surgery. Based on the current research results,this article described the application of membrane anatomy in the field of hepatobiliary surgery,pancreatic surgery,and splenic surgery,with the aim of blazed the path from modest beginnings.

[Several aspects on the long-term survival of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma patients]

Patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma have a poor overall prognosis and a low long-term survival rate. Currently, multimodal treatment is the mainstay of treatment, and surgical resection is the most important treatment for patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma for a long-term survival. Although the treatment strategies have been constantly updated in recent years to improve survival rates, there are still many controversial issues in the existing treatment strategies. Based on our center's clinical practice and recent research progress, analyzes several issues affecting long-term survival were analyzed based on three aspects: accurate clinical assessment methods, the related decisions making for surgical resection, and the strategies of precision medicine.

Transcriptomic, Physiological, and Metabolomic Response of an Alpine Plant, Rhododendron delavayi, to Waterlogging Stress and Post-Waterlogging Recovery

Climate change has resulted in frequent heavy and prolonged rainfall events that exacerbate waterlogging stress, leading to the death of certain alpine Rhododendron trees. To shed light on the physiological and molecular mechanisms behind waterlogging stress in woody Rhododendron trees, we conducted a study of Rhododendron delavayi, a well-known alpine flower species. Specifically, we investigated the physiological and molecular changes that occurred in leaves of R. delavayi subjected to 30 days of waterlogging stress (WS30d), as well as subsequent post-waterlogging recovery period of 10 days (WS30d-R10d). Our findings reveal that waterlogging stress causes a significant reduction in CO₂ assimilation rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, and maximum photochemical efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm) in the WS30d leaves, by 91.2%, 95.3%, 93.3%, and 8.4%, respectively, when compared to the control leaves. Furthermore, the chlorophyll a and total chlorophyll content in the WS30d leaves decreased by 13.5% and 16.6%, respectively. Both WS30d and WS30d-R10d leaves exhibited excessive H₂O₂ accumulation, with a corresponding decrease in lignin content in the WS30d-R10d leaves. At the molecular level, purine metabolism, glutathione metabolism, photosynthesis, and photosynthesis-antenna protein pathways were found to be primarily involved in WS30d leaves, whereas phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, fatty acid metabolism, fatty acid biosynthesis, fatty acid elongation, and cutin, suberin, and wax biosynthesis pathways were significantly enriched in WS30d-R10d leaves. Additionally, both WS30d and WS30d-R10d leaves displayed a build-up of sugars. Overall, our integrated transcriptomic, physiological, and metabolomic analysis demonstrated that R. delavayi is susceptible to waterlogging stress, which causes irreversible detrimental effects on both its physiological and molecular aspects, hence compromising the tree's ability to fully recover, even under normal growth conditions.

Two rare copy number variants involving loss of NPHP1, MALL, and MTLN genes contribute to nephronophthisis-induced nephropathy progression in a family: A case report

Nephronophthisis (NPHP) is a common pediatric cystic kidney disease, accounting for approximately 10% of end-stage renal failure cases in children. NPHP is primarily diagnosed through the identification of indel mutations and copy number variants (CNVs), and patients carrying NPHP1 mutations usually progress to renal failure at a mean age of 13 years old. However, the association between CNVs containing NPHP1 variations and the progression of NPHP-induced disease remains unclear. Here, we report three NPHP patients in a family. The proband had developed stage 4 chronic kidney disease (CKD) at 9 years old, and her younger brother and older sister had developed renal failure at 8 and 10 years old, respectively. A genetic diagnosis showed that they carried two rare CNVs, including homozygous loss of NPHP1, MALL, ACTR1AP1, MTLN, and LOC100507334. Heterozygous deletions mainly consisted of non-coding RNA genes on both sides of the CNVs. The proband was in stage 4 of CKD while her brother had progressed to renal failure, probably due to more extensive heterozygous deletion of a 67.115 kbp fragment, which included LIMS3-LOC440895, LOC440895, GPAA1P1, ZBTB45P1, and LINC0112 genes. This report demonstrates that larger CNV deletions, including homozygous NPHP1, MALL, and MTLN mutations and heterozygous deletions, presumably accelerate disease progression. Therefore, early genetic diagnosis plays a crucial role in the intervention and prognosis of these patients.

[Observational study on perioperative outcomes of pelvic exenteration]

Objective: To investigate the surgical indications and perioperative clinical outcomes of pelvic exenteration (PE) for locally advanced, recurrent pelvic malignancies and complex pelvic fistulas. Methods: This was a descriptive study.The indications for performing PE were: (1) locally advanced, recurrent pelvic malignancy or complex pelvic fistula diagnosed preoperatively by imaging and pathological examination of a biopsy; (2)preoperative agreement by a multi-disciplinary team that non-surgical and conventional surgical treatment had failed and PE was required; and (3) findings on intraoperative exploration confirming this conclusion.Contraindications to this surgical procedure comprised cardiac and respiratory dysfunction, poor nutritional status,and mental state too poor to tolerate the procedure.Clinical data of 141 patients who met the above criteria, had undergone PE in the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University from January 2018 to September 2022, had complete perioperative clinical data, and had given written informed consent to the procedure were collected,and the operation,relevant perioperative variables, postoperative pathological findings (curative resection), and early postoperative complications were analyzed. Results: Of the 141 included patients, 43 (30.5%) had primary malignancies, 61 (43.3%) recurrent malignancies, 28 (19.9%) complex fistulas after radical resection of malignancies,and nine (6.4%)complex fistulas caused by benign disease. There were 79 cases (56.0%) of gastrointestinal tumors, 30 cases (21.3%) of reproductive tumors, 16 cases (11.3%) of urinary tumors, and 7 cases (5.0%) of other tumors such mesenchymal tissue tumors. Among the 104 patients with primary and recurrent malignancies, 15 patients with severe complications of pelvic perineum of advanced tumors were planned to undergo palliative PE surgery for symptom relief after preoperative assessment of multidisciplinary team; the other 89 patients were evaluated for radical PE surgery. All surgeries were successfully completed. Total PE was performed on 73 patients (51.8%),anterior PE on 22 (15.6%),and posterior PE in 46 (32.6%). The median operative time was 576 (453,679) minutes, median intraoperative blood loss 500 (200, 1 200) ml, and median hospital stay 17 (13.0,30.5)days.There were no intraoperative deaths. Of the 89 patients evaluated for radical PE surgery, the radical R0 resection was achieved in 64 (71.9%) of them, R1 resection in 23 (25.8%), and R2 resection in two (2.2%). One or more postoperative complications occurred in 85 cases (60.3%), 32 (22.7%)of which were Clavien-Dindo grade III and above.One patient (0.7%)died during the perioperative period. Conclusion: PE is a valid option for treating locally advanced or recurrent pelvic malignancies and complex pelvic fistulas.

[Correlation between gene polymorphisms of killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors and their ligands and Graves' disease]

Objective: To explore the relationship between gene polymorphism of killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) and its ligand-specific human leukocyte antigen C (HLA-C) and Graves' disease (GD). Methods: Case-control study. A total of 118 unrelated GD patients (GD group) admitted to Shandong Provincial Hospital from January 2011 to December 2017 and 108 age-and sex-matched healthy controls (healthy control group) were included. The KIR genotype and its ligand HLA-C allele were detected by polymerase chain reaction sequence-specific primers (PCR-SSP). The distribution of KIR/HLA-C gene combination in GD patients and control population was analyzed to explore its association with the occurrence of GD. Results: In GD group, there were 29 males and 89 females, aged (38±14) years. In the healthy control group, there were 28 males and 80 females, aged (37±13) years. Compared with the healthy control group, the occurrence frequency of HLA-Cw01 was higher in GD group[36.4%(43/118) vs 18.5%(20/108), P=0.003], and the occurrence frequency of HLA-Cw03 and HLA-Cw06 was lower in GD group[11.9%(14/118) vs 39.8%(43/108), P<0.001; 9.3%(11/118) vs 18.5%(20/108), P=0.045]. The frequency of KIR2DL1/HLA-C2 gene combination in GD group was lower than that in control group [17.8%(21/118) vs 34.3%(37/108), P=0.005]. Logistic regression analysis showed that KIR2DL1/HLA-C2 gene combination was a protective factor for GD occurrence (OR=0.308, 95%CI: 0.126-0.752, P=0.010). Conclusions: The polymorphism of KIR/HLA-C gene is related to GD. The low expression of KIR2DL1/HLA-C2 in GD patients may be a protective factor for GD.

Comparative effectiveness of exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation for heart failure: a Bayesian network analysis of 44 randomized trials and 5896 patients

Introduction

The prevalence of heart failure (HF) is increasing nowadays. Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) reduces mortality and further improves the outcome of patients with HF. However, the effect of different types of CR on HF remains unclear. Data comparing these CR have not been synthesized. Thus, the purpose of this study is to determine the relative efficacy of different types of exercise-based CR for individuals with HF using a Bayesian network meta-analysis.

Methods

We followed a pre-specified protocol (PROSPERO: CRD42021278351). We conducted a systematic literature review of any randomized controlled trials which evaluated exercise-based CR for patients with HF. Databases including Embase, Medline, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science were screened up to 31 December 2021. The primary outcomes focus on functional capacity (peak oxygen uptake and 6-minute walk distance) and health-related quality of life (hr-QOL). The main analysis was complemented by network subanalysis, standard pairwise comparisons, and subgroup and sensitivity analyses. The pooled estimates were quantified as mean differences (MD) or standardized mean difference (SMD)where appropriate, at 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

We identified 44 randomized controlled trials with a total of 5896 HF participants. Among 23 studies that compared exercise-based CR and usual care, participants in center-based CR (CBCR) had improvement of peak oxygen uptake (MD: 2.30 mL/kg per minute; 95% CI, 0.43–4.40) and 6-minute walk distance (MD: 33 meters; 95% CI, 11.00–58.00).18 studies that compared exercise-based CR with usual care showed that CBCR and cardiac telerehabilitation (CTR) had greater improvements in hr-QOL (SMD: −0.38; 95% CI, −0.49 to −0.15 and SMD: −0.18,95% CI, −0.36 to −0.00 respectively). Treatment ranking indicated CTR has the highest probability (46.0%, 50.2%) of being the most effective CR for peak oxygen uptake and hr-QOL elevation respectively. CBCR was similarly indicated as the most effective treatment for 6-min walk distance (38.7%).

Conclusion

Exercise-based CR programs provide broader cardiovascular benefits compared with UC. CBCR significantly improved functional capacity. CBCR and CTR have favorable effects on hr-QOL.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): China Scholarship Council

[A new classification of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma based on actual anatomy:a series of 135 cases]

Objective: To explore the feasibility and clinical value of a new classification for resectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IHCC) according to the actual anatomy. Methods: The data of 135 patients with IHCC who were admitted to the Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery,Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine from November 2011 to November 2020 after discussion by a multidisciplinary team and planned to undergo radical resection were analyzed retrospectively. There were 77 males and 58 females,with a median age of 61 years (range:26 to 86 years),of which 38 cases had vascular invasion. This new classification was carried out independently by two hepatobiliary surgeons. First,a preliminary classification was made based on the location of the tumor,and then the final classification was based on vascular invasion. All patients were followed up by telephone,and the follow-up was as of November 2020. Survival time is defined as the time after surgery to follow-up or death. Log-rank test was used to compare patients' median recurrence-free survival and overall survival time. The Cox proportional hazard model was used to analyze the prognosis factors of the overall survival time of patients with IHCC. Results: Among the 135 patients,129 underwent R0 resection and 6 underwent R1 resection. According to the actual anatomy,28 cases (20.7%) belonged to segmental type, 43 cases (31.9%) belonged to branch type, 64 cases (47.4%). The median survival time of all patients was 35.2 months(95%CI:21.3 to 70.5 months),the 1-year cumulative survival rate was 75.1%,the 3-year cumulative survival rate was 45.8%,and the 5-year cumulative survival rate was 39.0%. After grouping according to the classification,the median survival time of segmental patients was 36.9 months (more than 50% of patients reached the median survival time),and the median survival time of branched patients was 33.8 months (95%CI:16.8 to 38.5);The median survival time of lobe patients was 25.0 months (95%CI:13.6 to 58.7). The result of Log-rank test between groups indicated that the median survival time of patients with segmental type was better than that of patients with branch and lobe type(HR=2.03,95%CI:1.24 to 3.64,P=0.006);There was no significant difference in survival time between patients with branch type and lobe type (P=0.685). The results of the multivariate analysis of the Cox risk ratio model suggested that the actual anatomical location classification (HR=2.32,95%CI:1.10 to 4.92,P=0.028) and the postoperative lymph node metastasis rate (HR=2.06,95%CI:1.24 to 3.45,P=0.005) were independent factors related to survival after radical resection of IHCC patients. Conclusion: It is simple and convenient to classify resectable IHCC by actual anatomy,which can be used to preliminarily judge the prognosis of patients and provide a feasible classification scheme for the clinic.

[The prognostic effects of two comprehensive geriatric assessment methods in elderly patients with acute myeloid leukemia]

Objective: To evaluate the prognostic effects of two comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) methods in elderly patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Methods: Ninety-seven patients with newly diagnosed AML at Beijing Hospital from August 2008 to December 2019 were included (≥60 years old). All patients were evaluated by two methods of CGA. One was IACA index proposed by Beijing Hospital, including instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), age, Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), albumin; the other was proposed by Italian FIL study group (FIL-CGA), including activities of daily living (ADL), IADL, age, and modified cumulative illness rating score for geriatrics (MCIRS-G). Results: Among 97 patients, 54 patients received standard chemotherapy, 16 with decitabine, 2 with targeted therapy and 25 with the best supportive therapy. The overall response rate (ORR) in 72 treated patients were 67.7%, 33.3% and 0 respectively in fit, unfit and frail groups according to IACA index (P=0.001). Based on FIL-CGA, the ORRs of fit, unfit and frail groups were 52.5%, 41.7% and 35.0% respectively (P=0.418). The 1-year OS rates of fit, unfit and frail groups regarding IACA method were 78.7%, 27.7% and 0 respectively (P<0.01). The 1-year OS rates of fit, unfit and frail groups regarding FIL-CGA method were 67.8%, 28.2% and 13.9% respectively (P<0.01), while no significant difference was seen between unfit group and frail group (P=0.111). The early death rates of fit, unfit and frail groups by IACA were 0, 6.0% and 28.6% respectively (P=0.006), while those by FIL-CGA were 2.3%, 5.9%, 13.9% respectively (P=0.123). Conclusion: Compared with FIL-CGA method, IACA predicts more effectively the treatment response, survival and early mortality in elderly patients with AML.

A review of applications of metabolomics in osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) represents the most prevalent and disabling arthritis worldwide due to its heterogeneous and progressive articular degradation. However, effective and timely diagnosis and fundamental treatment for this disorder are lacking. Metabolomics, a growing field in life science research in recent years, has the potential to detect many metabolites and thus explains the underlying pathophysiological processes. Hence, new specific metabolic markers and related metabolic pathways can be identified for OA. In this review, we aimed to provide an overview of studies related to the metabolomics of OA in animal models and humans to describe the metabolic changes and related pathways for OA. The present metabolomics studies reveal that the pathogenesis of OA may be significantly related to perturbations of amino acid metabolism. These altered amino acids (e.g., branched-chain amino acids, arginine, and alanine), as well as phospholipids, were identified as potential biomarkers to distinguish patients with OA from healthy individuals.

Treadmill running induces remodeling of the infrapatellar fat pad in an intensity-dependent manner

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the response of the infrapatellar fat pad (IFP) to running at different intensities and further explore the underlying mechanisms of these responses under different running-induced loadings.

METHODS

Animals were randomly assigned into the sedentary (SED), low-intensity running (LIR), medium-intensity running (MIR), and high-intensity running (HIR) groups. The rats in the LIR, MIR, and HIR groups were subjected to an 8-week treadmill running protocol. In each group, the IFP was examined at the baseline and at the 8th week to perform histomorphology, immunohistochemistry, and mRNA expression analyses.

RESULTS

Compared with LIR and MIR, HIR for 8 weeks led to a substantial increase in the surface cellularity (1.67 ± 1.15), fibrosis (1.29 ± 0.36), and vascularity (33.31 ± 8.43) of the IFP but did not increase IFP inflammation or M1 macrophage polarization. Low-to-medium-intensity running resulted in unchanged or decreased fibrosis, vascularity, and surface cellularity in the IFP compared to those of the SED group. Furthermore, serum leptin and visfatin levels were significantly lower in the LIR and MIR groups than in the SED group or the HIR group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The effect of running on IFP remodeling was intensity dependent. In contrast to LIR and MIR, HIR increased the fibrosis and vascularity of the IFP. HIR-induced IFP fibrosis was probably due to mechanical stress, rather than pathological proinflammatory M1/M2 polarization.

Efficacy and safety of sprifermin injection for knee osteoarthritis treatment: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To perform a meta-analysis comparing the structural progression and clinical symptom outcomes as well as adverse events experienced from intra-articular injections of sprifermin compared to a placebo treatment for patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA).

METHOD

We systematically searched the literature for studies that compared long-term outcomes between sprifermin and placebo injections for KOA treatment. Meta-analysis was performed with RevMan5.3 using an inverse variance approach with fixed or random effects models. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated.

RESULTS

Eight studies were included. Overall, there was significantly less improvement of WOMAC total scores in patients receiving sprifermin, compared with the placebo (mean difference (MD) = 3.23, 95% CI 0.76-5.69; I² = 0%; P = 0.01). Further, sprifermin injection patients gained more, and lost less, cartilage thickness and volume in total femorotibial joint (cartilage thickness: standardized mean differences (SMD) = 0.55, 95% CI 0.26-0.84; I² = 78%; P = 0.0002; cartilage volume: SMD = 0.39, 95% CI 0.20-0.58; I² = 49%; P < 0.0001). Changes in the cartilage surface morphology of the medial tibio-femoral joint (MD = -0.30, 95% CI -0.44 to -0.16; I² = 0%; P < 0.0001) and patello-femoral joint (MD = -0.22; 95% CI -0.37 to -0.07; I² = 0%; P = 0.004) showed a significant difference between the sprifermin and placebo injections. Moreover, there were no significant differences between sprifermin and the placebo in the risk of treatment-emergent adverse events (OR = 1.05; 95% CI 0.52-2.14; I² = 48%; P = 0.89).

CONCLUSION

The data from the included studies provide strong evidence to determine the effect of intra-articular sprifermin on joint structure in individuals with KOA and show no specific adverse effects. Nevertheless, intra-articular sprifermin did not likely have any positive effect on symptom alleviation.

Role of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 signaling underlying cardiac hypertrophy

Cardiac hypertrophy is the result of increased myocardial cell size responding to an increased workload and developmental signals. These extrinsic and intrinsic stimuli as key drivers of cardiac hypertrophy have spurred efforts to target their associated signaling pathways. The extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2), as an essential member of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), has been widely recognized for promoting cardiac growth. Several modified transgenic mouse models have been generated through either affecting the upstream kinase to change ERK1/2 activity, manipulating the direct role of ERK1/2 in the heart, or targeting phosphatases or MAPK scaffold proteins to alter total ERK1/2 activity in response to an increased workload. Using these models, both regulation of the upstream events and modulation of each isoform and indirect effector could provide important insights into how ERK1/2 modulates cardiomyocyte biology. Furthermore, a plethora of compounds, inhibitors, and regulators have emerged in consideration of ERK, or its MAPK kinases, are possible therapeutic targets against cardiac hypertrophic diseases. Herein, is a review of the available evidence regarding the exact role of ERK1/2 in regulating cardiac hypertrophy and a discussion of pharmacological strategy for treatment of cardiac hypertrophy.

Knockdown of lncRNA HCP5 protects against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury by regulating miR-652-3p

Previous studies have shown that lncRNAs play crucial roles in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. In this study, the function and possible mechanism of lncRNA HCP5 in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury was investigated. An oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD) model in N2a cells was used to simulate cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in vitro. The functional mechanism of lncRNA HCP5 was detected using Trypan blue staining, JC-1, MTT and dual luciferase reporter assays. The expression of apoptosis-related proteins (Bcl-2 and Bax) was measured by Western blot analysis. We found that lncRNA HCP5 was upregulated in N2a cells treated with OGD/R, and knockdown of lncRNA HCP5 enhanced cell viability and reduced cell death. In addition, miR-652-3p was found to act as a sponge for lncRNA HCP5. The overexpression of miR- 652-3p can prevent cerebral ischemic reperfusion injury, however, lncRNA HCP5 attenuated the protective effect of miR-652-3p in cerebral ischemic reperfusion injury. In conclusion, upregulation of lncRNA HCP5 may exacerbate cerebral ischemic reperfusion injury by sponging miR-652-3p.

[Analysis of the relationship between the number of lymph nodes examined and prognosis for curatively resected gallbladder carcinoma: a multi-institutional study]

Objective: To examine the role of the number of lymph nodes examined(NLNE) on the prognosis of patients with curatively resected gallbladder carcinoma(GBC). Methods: The clinicopathological data and prognosis of 401 patients with GBC who underwent radical surgery from six institutions of China from January 2013 to December 2017 were analyzed retrospectively. There were 153 males(38.2%) and 248 females(61.8%), with age of (62.0±10.5) years (range: 30-88 years). Fifty-three patients(22.2%) were accompanied by jaundice. All patients underwent radical resection+regional lymphadenectomy.R0 or R1 resection was confirmed by postoperative pathological examination.The different cut-off values of NLNE were determined by the X-tile software, the optimal cut-off values were identified by analyzing the relationship between different cut-off values of NLNE with survival rate. Kaplan-Meier method was used for survival analysis. Univariate and multivariate analysis were implemented respectively using the Log-rank test and Cox proportional hazard model. Results: Among the 401 patients enrolled, 135 cases (33.6%) had lymphatic metastasis, of which 98 cases were in N1 stage(24.4%) and 37 cases were in N2 stage(9.2%).A total of 2 794 NLNE were retrieved, with a median count of 6 (5).The median positive lymph nodes count was 0 (1), and the median positive lymph nodes ratio was 0 (IQR, 0-0.2). Since the 12 and 15 were determined as the cut-off values by X-tile, all patients were divided into three groups of 1-11, 12-15 and ≥16.The 3-year survival rate of the three groups was 45.2%, 74.5%, 12.0% respectively, with statistically significant difference between three groups (χ(2)=10.94, P<0.01). The results of multivariate analysis showed that NLNE was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (P<0.05). Further analysis was performed specifically for subgroup of T stages. For T1b patients, the prognosis of the NLNE with 1-7 group was significantly better than that of the ≥8 group(χ(2)=4.610, P<0.05). For T2 patients, the prognosis of the TLNE ≥7 group was significantly better than that of 1 -6 group (χ(2)=4.287, P<0.05). For T3 and T4 patients, the prognosis of the TLNE with 12 - 15 group was significantly better than that of 1 -11 group (χ(2)=5.007, P<0.01) and ≥16 group (χ(2)=10.158, P<0.01). Conclusions: The NLNE is an independent factor affecting the prognosis of patients with GBC.For patients with stage T1b,8 lymph nodes should be retrieved; for patients with stage T2,extensive dissection of more than 6 lymph nodes can significantly improve the prognosis.For advanced patients (stages T3 and T4), extensive dissection with 12-15 lymph nodes is recommended. However, it fails to get more survival benefits by dissecting more than 16 lymph nodes.

Post-traumatic osteoarthritis following ACL injury

Post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) develops after joint injury. Specifically, patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury have a high risk of developing PTOA. In this review, we outline the incidence of ACL injury that progresses to PTOA, analyze the role of ACL reconstruction in preventing PTOA, suggest possible mechanisms thought to be responsible for PTOA, evaluate current diagnostic methods for detecting early OA, and discuss potential interventions to combat PTOA. We also identify important directions for future research. Although much work has been done, the incidence of PTOA among patients with a history of ACL injury remains high due to the complexity of ACL injury progression to PTOA, the lack of sensitive and easily accessible diagnostic methods to detect OA development, and the limitations of current treatments. A number of factors are thought to be involved in the underlying mechanism, including structural factors, biological factors, mechanical factors, and neuromuscular factor. Since there is a clear "start point" for PTOA, early detection and intervention is of great importance. Currently, imaging modalities and specific biomarkers allow early detection of PTOA. However, none of them is both sensitive and easily accessible. After ACL injury, many patients undergo surgical reconstruction of ACL to restore joint stability and prevent excessive loading. However, convincing evidence is still lacking for the superiority of ACL-R to conservative management in term of the incidence of PTOA. As for non-surgical treatment such as anti-cytokine and chemokine interventions, most of them are investigated in animal studies and have not been applied to humans. A complete understanding of mechanisms to stratify the patients into different subgroups on the basis of risk factors is critical. And the improvement of standardized and quantitative assessment techniques is necessary to guide intervention. Moreover, treatments targeted toward different pathogenic pathways may be crucial to the management of PTOA in the future.

[The new classifications of biliary tract diseases based on actual anatomy]

In order to facilitate the treatment strategies for biliary tract injury, hilar cholangiocarcinoma, bile duct tumor thrombus, cholangiocellular carcinoma and bile duct cystic dilatation, many classifications have been made, even more than 10 types for one disease. Each type is represented by numbers or English alphabet, which are not only confusing but also difficult to remember. The Academician Mengchao Wu divided the liver into five sections and four segments base on its anatomy, this classification is very direct and visual, thus had been using till now. In order to overcome those complicated problems, it is considered to develop a new classification based on actual anatomic location similar to that for liver cancer, which is easy to remember and to directly determine the treatment strategy. All kinds of classifications have their own characteristics and advantages and disadvantages. This practical classifications avoid the complexity and may be useful for clinicians.

[Preoperative evaluation of sentinel lymph node biopsy using contrast-enhanced ultrasonography in early breast cancer patients and the involved disturbing factors]

Objective: To explore the preoperative evaluation of sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy using contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) in early breast cancer patients and the involved disturbing factors. Methods: Eighty-three female early breast cancer patients who underwent concurrent surgery in the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University between January 2017 and May 2018 were enrolled. CEUS was used to seek SLN and determine lymph node metastasis after signature of preoperative informed consent. Rapid pathological examination was used to determine whether metastasis existed in SLN. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, the differences between CEUS and pathological results, and the involved disturbing factors were evaluated. Results: A total of 212 SLNs were detected by CEUS and SLN biopsy with an average of 2.6 SLNs detected per patient, including 39 SLNs with cancer metastasis (18.4%) and 173 SLNs without cancer metastasis (81.6%). Among the 83 patients, 29 patients were predicted SLN-positive preoperatively utilizing CEUS (including 21 cases with SLN pathological metastasis and 8 cases with non-metastasis), 54 patients were predicted SLN-negative (including 5 cases with SLN pathological metastasis and 49 cases with non-metastasis). The preoperative evaluation of SLN utilizing CEUS were performed with a sensitivity of 80.8% (21/26), specificity of 86.0% (49/57), positive predictive value of 72.4% (21/29), and negative predictive value of 90.7% (49/54), positive likelihood ratio of 5.75, negative likelihood ratio of 0.22, and the accuracy of 84.3% (70/83), respectively. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.834 (95% CI: 0.736-0.906). The primary tumor mean size of SLN-negative group predicted preoperatively utilizing CEUS was (1.78±0.14) cm, and that of the SLN positive group was (2.64±0.19) cm. The difference between the two groups was (0.86±0.24) cm with statistical significance (P=0.000 6). The SLN mean size of SLN-negative group (141 SLNs) was (1.41±0.05) cm and that of SLN-positive group (71 SLNs) was (1.69±0.07) cm. The difference between the two groups was (0.28±0.09) cm with statistical significance (P=0.002 8). Conclusions: Preoperative CEUS possesses the predictive value for SLN metastasis in early breast cancer. The predicted results may be influenced by the primary tumor size and the SLN size.

[Pilot study of the relationship between clinical classification of gallbladder cancer and prognosis: a retrospective multicenter clinical study]

Objectives: To propose a novel clinical classification system of gallbladder cancer, and to investigate the differences of clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis based on patients who underwent radical resection with different types of gallbladder cancer. Methods: The clinical data of 1 059 patients with gallbladder cancer underwent radical resection in 12 institutions in China from January 2013 to December 2017 were retrospectively collected and analyzed.There were 389 males and 670 females, aged (62.0±10.5)years(range:22-88 years).According to the location of tumor and the mode of invasion,the tumors were divided into peritoneal type, hepatic type, hepatic hilum type and mixed type, the surgical procedures were divided into regional radical resection and extended radical resection.The correlation between different types and T stage, N stage, vascular invasion, neural invasion, median survival time and surgical procedures were analyzed.Rates were compared by χ(2) test, survival analysis was carried by Kaplan-Meier and Log-rank test. Results: Regional radical resection was performed in 940 cases,including 81 cases in T1 stage,859 cases in T2-T4 stage,119 cases underwent extended radical resection;R0 resection was achieved in 990 cases(93.5%).The overall median survival time was 28 months.There were 81 patients in Tis-T1 stage and 978 patients in T2-T4 stage.The classification of gallbladder cancer in patients with T2-T4 stage: 345 cases(35.3%)of peritoneal type, 331 cases(33.8%) of hepatic type, 122 cases(12.5%) of hepatic hilum type and 180 cases(18.4%) of mixed type.T stage(χ(2)=288.60,P<0.01),N stage(χ(2)=68.10, P<0.01), vascular invasion(χ(2)=128.70, P<0.01)and neural invasion(χ(2)=54.30, P<0.01)were significantly correlated with the classification.The median survival time of peritoneal type,hepatic type,hepatic hilum type and mixed type was 48 months,21 months,16 months and 11 months,respectively(χ(2)=80.60,P<0.01).There was no significant difference in median survival time between regional radical resection and extended radical resection in the peritoneal type,hepatic type,hepatic hilum type and mixed type(all P>0.05). Conclusion: With application of new clinical classification, different types of gallbladder cancer are proved to be correlated with TNM stage, malignant biological behavior and prognosis, which will facilitate us in preoperative evaluation,surgical planning and prognosis evaluation.

[The prognosis value of comprehensive geriatric assessment in elder patients with acute myeloid leukemia in a single center]

目的

评价综合老年学评估（CGA）在老年急性髓系白血病（AML）患者中预后价值。

方法

纳入73例北京医院诊断的年龄≥ 60岁的AML患者，CGA评估选取日常活动功能量表、工具性日常活动功能量表以及改良老年疾病累计评分表。以评分量表及患者年龄为标准，将患者分为适合、不适合以及脆弱组。

结果

73例患者中男46例，女27例，中位年龄75（60~89）岁。适合组37例（50.1%），不适合组14例（19.2%），脆弱组22例（30.7%），三组分别有33例（89.2%）、8例（57.1%）、10例（45.5%）患者接受化疗（标准化疗或去甲基化治疗），三组患者总反应率分别为68.7%、62.5%、75.0%（χ²=0.615，P=0.769）。适合组、不适合组、脆弱组的早期死亡率（8周死亡率）分别为5.4%、7.1%、27.3%（P<0.05），1年预计总生存率分别为64.9%、28.6%、22.7%（P<0.05）。单因素生存分析显示CGA评分、年龄、ECOG评分、WHO分型（2016）均是影响AML患者生存时间的因素（P<0.05）。

结论

CGA可预测老年AML患者的早期死亡率及远期生存。

[Endoplasmic reticulum stress in regulation of hepatic fibrosis]

Hepatic fibrosis is the process of fiber formation and inflammation caused by chronic liver injury, and is a common pathological process of hepatic cirrhosis and hepatic carcinoma. The prevention and treatment of liver fibrosis can effectively control the incidence of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer, but its pathogenesis remains unclear. Endoplasmic reticulum stress is a kind of subcellular organelle pathological process that causes the disruption of ion balance in endoplasmic reticulum or the obstacle of protein processing and transportation. In recent years, more and more studies have shown that endoplasmic reticulum stress is involved in the occurrence, development and reversal of liver fibrosis. This article reviews the regulatory role of endoplasmic reticulum stress in liver fibrosis.

[Comprehensive geriatric assessment can predict the clinical outcomes of elderly patients with diffuse large B cell lymphoma in China]

Objective: To validate comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) system in Chinese elderly diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patients. Methods: Patients ≥ 65 years of age who had been diagnosed with de novo DLBCL were screened for eligibility (n=99). CGA was performed during staging procedures through application of the following instruments: age, comorbidity score according to the Cumulative Illness Rating Score for Geriatrics(CIRS-G), activities of daily living (ADL), and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL). Results: All patients were classified as "ft" , "unfit" , and "frail" . Forty-nine (49.5%), 14 (14.1%), and 34 (36.4%) patients were categorized into the fit, unfit, and frail groups, respectively. The overall response rate was 91.8%, 64.3%, and 69.5% in fit, unfit, and frail group, respectively (χ(2)=9.311, P=0.007). Eleven (22.4%), 7 (50.0%), and 16(44.4%) patients showed disease relapse/progression in fit, unfit, and frail group, respectively (χ(2)=6.309, P=0.040). The 2-year probability of overall survival was 90.6%, 43.0%, and 58.5% in fit, unfit, and frail group, respectively (χ(2)=14.774, P=0.001). The 2-year probability of progression-free survival was 72.9%, 32.5%, and 37.3% in fit, unfit, and frail group, respectively (χ(2)=11.038, P=0.004). Conclusion: The CGA index can predict the clinical outcomes of elderly DLBCL patients in China.

[Research advances on the therapy of pancreatic fistula after pancreatic surgery]

Pancreatic fistula is a common and serious complication after pancreatic surgery. Pancreatic fistula, intra-abdominal infection and hemorrhage are known as the " lethal triad" after pancreatic surgery, which seriously affect the curative efficacy of operation. Although the incidence of pancreatic fistula has not been significantly reduced, there have been a large number of studies on the risk factors of pancreatic fistula and the means of prevention and therapy, which try to minimize the harm of pancreatic fistula. In this article we review the recent development of the latest definition, high risk factors and treatment of postoperative pancreatic fistula according to relevant literatures at home and abroad, aiming at summarizing the research advances on the therapy of pancreatic fistula after pancreatic surgery.

Effects of guanidinoacetic acid on growth performance, creatine and energy metabolism, and carcass characteristics in growing-finishing pigs

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) on the growth performance, creatine and energy metabolism, and carcass characteristics in growing-finishing pigs. In Exp. 1, Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire pigs (n = 180, 33.61 ± 3.91 kg average BW) were blocked by weight and sex, and allotted to 5 treatments with 6 replicates (3 gilts and 3 barrows per replicate pen). Diets were corn-soybean meal-basal diets supplemented with 0, 300, 600, 900, and 1,200 mg/kg of GAA and fed to the pigs for 98 d. From days 1 to 98, G:F increased (linear, P < 0.05) with increasing addition of dietary GAA. Using a broken-line model, the optimum level of dietary GAA was 300 mg/kg during the overall experimental period (days 1 to 98) to maximize G:F. Hot carcass weight, carcass length, and lean percentage showed a tendency to increase (quadratic, 0.05 < P < 0.10) with increasing addition of dietary GAA. On day 98, serum GAA and liver creatine tended to increase (linear, P = 0.10, 0.07) as dietary GAA increased. In addition, serum ATP on day 98 increased linearly (linear, P < 0.01), and muscle ATP and adenosine monophosphate increased quadratically (quadratic, P = 0.05) with incremental GAA supplementation. In Exp. 2, Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire pigs (n = 180, 53.19 ± 5.63 kg average BW) were blocked by weight and sex, and allotted to 5 treatments with 6 replicates (3 gilts and 3 barrows per replicate pen). Diets were corn-soybean meal-basal diets supplemented with 0, 150, 300, 600, and 1,200 mg/kg of GAA for 35 d. As dietary GAA increased, final BW, ADG, and G:F increased quadratically (quadratic, P < 0.01), and 300 mg/kg of GAA maximized ADG and final BW (P < 0.05).The results indicate that dietary GAA could increase the creatine and ATP load in the tissues of pigs and accordingly improve growth performance. Dietary supplementation with 300 mg/kg of GAA was suitable to maximize the growth performance of growing-finishing pigs.

[A comparative study of comprehensive geriatric assessment in elder patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma]

Objective: To measure the comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) in elder non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL) patients in a cross-sectional study; to compare the differences between Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG)-performance status (PS) and CGA. Methods: CGA stratification included the following 3 instrument assessments: activity of daily living (ADL);instrumental activity of daily living (IADL);comorbidity score according to the modified cumulative illness rating score for geriatrics (MCIRS-G). According to CGA and age, NHL patients, aged ≥60 years, were classified as"fit","unfit"and"frail"groups. ECOG-PS was evaluated and compared with CGA. Results: According to CGA, 51.6% senior NHL patients (33 cases) were classified as"fit", 12.5%(8 cases) as"unfit"and 35.9%(23 cases) as"frail". Several comorbidities were observed in majority patients, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus and hypertension. In the"younger aged"patients between 60 to 64ys, 25%(3/12) was considered as"frail". However, this proportion increased to 42.9%(6/14) in patients older than 80ys. Moreover, impaired CGA was observed in 38.9%(21/54) of ECOG-PS ≤1 patient. Conclusions: Impaired CGA is as common as approximately half in elderly NHL patients and more than one third even in ECOG-PS ≤1 patients. ECOG-PS may underestimate the impaired fitness function in elder NHL patients.

[Terminal branches portal vein embolization for planed hepatectomy]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the application of the technique of terminal branches portal vein embolization(TBPVE)for planed hepatectomy.

METHODS

From February 2016 to June 2016, 4 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma underwent TBPVE and liver resection in Yuebei People's Hospital (n=3) and Jiangxi Ji'an Central People's Hospital (n=1). All of them were male and were 50, 64, 39 and 47 years old respectively. All the tumors located in the right lobe. All patients had the liver function of Child-Pugh A classification and liver cirrhosis level of G2S4. The standard liver volume (SLV) were 1 291, 1 109, 1 177 and 1 242 ml and estimated future liver remnant(FLR) were 315, 347, 306 and 323 ml respectively. The puncture site of TBPVE was determined by the three-dimensional reconstruction of portal vein. Three patients were punctured in the segment Ⅵ and the other one punctured in the segment Ⅲ. CT scan was repeated 2 weeks after TBPVE and FLR and FLR/SLV were calculated. All patients underwent right hepatectomy 2 weeks after TBPVE.

RESULTS

On the 14(th) day after TBPVE, the FLR of 4 patients were 529, 462, 469 and 498 ml which increased 67.9%, 33.1%, 53.3% and 54.2% compared with that before TBPVE, and FLR/SLV were 41.0%, 41.7%, 39.8% and 40.1% respectively. No severe complication occurred. Right hepatectomy were performed 2 weeks after TBPVE. No inflow blood control applied during the liver resection. The mean blood loss was 950 ml and the mean operating time was 3.3 hours (ranging from 3 to 4 hours). One patient had respiratory infection and two had slight jaundice and ascites for a short period. No other complication occurred.

CONCLUSION

The TBPVE could induce a rapid and large FLR volume that give chances to patients with small FLR to have liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma.

[The breast cancer diagnosis accuracy of the digital breast tomosynthesis technique]

Objective: To explore the Digital breast tomosynthesis technique (DBT) in breast cancer diagnosis accuracy. Methods: Choose 263 cases of patients with breast lesions, using DBT combined FFDM (Full field digital mammography) independent FFDM, evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of breast cancer. Results: The ROC curve area (AUC) of two kinds of breast cancer diagnosis methods (DBT combined FFDM and independent FFDM) were 0.954±0.014 and 0.907±0.019, with significant difference (P=0.000 3). In premenopausal patients and breast density ACR3-4 cases, DBT combined FFDM diagnosis accuracy is higher than FFDM alone group, with significant difference (P<0.05). Conclusion: DBT combined FFDM compared with independent FFDM, in a certain extent, improves the accuracy of the diagnosis of breast cancer.

[The prevalence and etiology of anemia in urban community dwelling elderly population in Beijing]

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the prevalence of anemia in urban community dwelling elderly population.

METHODS

This study was a cross-sectional survey of prevalence of anemia in randomly selected community dwelling residents aged over 65 years in Beijing. Anemia was defined as hemoglobin concentration less than 130 g/L in men and 120 g/L in women.

RESULTS

The hemoglobin concentration was (135.65±14.48) g/L in total of 1 947 eligible participants and was much higher in men than in women [(142.56±15.56) g/L vs (130.95±11.53) g/L, P<0.001]. There were 288 (14.8%) patients with anemia, including 16.3%(129/789) in men and 13.7%(159/1 158) in women. The prevalence of anemia increased significantly with age, which was 7.6% in 65-69 years, 10.8% in 70-74 years, 18.8% in 75-79 years and 24.1% over 80 years (P<0.001). Two hundred and seventy-nine (96.9%) subjects were mild anemia, 8 (2.8%) moderate, only 1 subject (0.3%) severe. Unexplained anemia was predominant, which accounted for 63.2%. Only 16.7% people were diagnosed as nutritional anemia, renal anemia 5.2%, anemia of chronic disease (ACD) 12.2%. There were 2.4% people with overlapped renal anemia and ACD. Compared with non-anemic subjects, more subjects with unexplained anemia represented macrocytosis (7.1% vs 3.2%, P=0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

Anemia is a common health problem in urban community dwelling elderly population. Most subjects have anemia with unknown origin. Further investigation is needed to explore the mechanism and related factors of elderly anemia.

[Effect of hydrocinnamoyl-L-valyl pyrrolidine on healing quality of deep partial-thickness scald wound in mice]

Objective: To observe the effect of Toll interleukin-1 recptor homology/BB-loop mimetic hydrocinnamoyl-L-valyl pyrrolidine (AS-1) on the healing quality of deep partial-thickness scald wound in mice. Methods: Forty-two adult C57BL/6 mice were divided into sham injury group (SI), scald group (S), early AS-1 treatment group (EAT), early dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) control group (EDC), late AS-1 treatment group (LAT), late DMSO control group (LDC) according to the random number table, with 7 mice in each group. Mice in group SI were sham injured without other treatment. Deep partial-thickness scald model with 10% total body surface area was reproduced on the back of the other mice, and the wound was treated by daily wound cleaning with saline and dressing changing with vaseline gauze after injury. Mice in group EAT and those in group LAT were intraperitoneally injected with 20 mg/mL AS-1 50 mg/kg each day respectively from post scald hour (PSH) 8 and post scald day (PSD) 15 on. Mice in group EDC and those in group LDC were intraperitoneally injected with 20 mg/mL DMSO 50 mg/kg each day respectively from PSH 8 and PSD 15 on. On PSD 21, the gross condition of wound healing of mice with scald was observed, and the wound healing rate was calculated. Tissue samples of healed wound were collected and stained with HE and Masson respectively to observe the histomorphological change and fibrosis of collagen, and the percentage of fibrosis of collagen was calculated. The mRNA expressions of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), transforming growth factor β₁ (TGF-β₁), matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), type Ⅰ collagen and type Ⅲ collagen in healed wound tissue were detected by real time fluorescent quantitive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The protein expressions of type Ⅰ collagen and type Ⅲ collagen in healed wound tissue were detected by Western blotting. Skin tissue of mice in group SI at the same area as that observed and collected in mice with scald was performed with the same observation and detection as mentioned above at the same time. Data were processed with one-way analysis of variance and Tukey test. Results: On PSD 21, no abnormal appearance was found in skin tissue of mice in group SI. Wounds of mice in group EAT were healed completely without scar formation, while those in the other four groups were not completely healed with scars formed in different degree. The wound healing rate of mice in group EAT was (97±4)%, close to that of group SI (100%, q=1.753, P>0.05), and both of them were obviously higher than those of groups S, EDC, LAT, and LDC [respectively (83±8)%, (87±6)%, (85±9)%, and (85±7)%, with q values from 4.819 to 6.803, P<0.05 or P<0.01]. On PSD 21, no abnormal appearance was found in morphology of skin tissue of mice in group SI. The morphology of healed wound tissue of mice in group EAT was close to that in group SI, with little epidermis hyalinosis and few newly formed collagen fibers arranged orderly. Epidermis hyalinosis in band- or flake-shape and obvious proliferation of collagen fibers arranged disorderly were observed in healed wound tissue of mice in the other four groups. Much infiltration of inflammatory cells was found in group S. The percentage of fibrosis of collagen in healed wound tissue of mice in group EAT was (30±3)%, close to that of group SI [(30±4)%, q=0.159, P>0.05], and both of them were obviously lower than those of groups S, EDC, LAT, and LDC [respectively (86±9)%, (74±5)%, (82±4)%, and (82±7)%, with q values from 12.080 to 15.530, P values below 0.01]. On PSD 21, compared with those of group SI, the mRNA expressions of IL-1β, TNF-α, TGF-β₁, MMP-1, and CTGF in healed wound tissue of mice in group S, the mRNA expressions of TGF-β₁ in healed wound tissue of mice in groups EDC and LDC, and the mRNA expression of MMP-1 in healed wound tissue of mice in group LAT were significantly increased (with q values from 4.039 to 5.232, P values below 0.05), while the mRNA expression of TIMP-1 in healed wound tissue of mice in group S was significantly decreased (q=4.921, P<0.05). Compared with those of group S, the mRNA expressions of IL-1β, TNF-α, TGF-β₁, MMP-1, and CTGF in healed wound tissue of mice in group EAT and the mRNA expressions of IL-1β and CTGF in healed wound tissue of mice in group LAT were significantly decreased (with q values from 4.418 to 6.402, P<0.05 or P<0.01), while the mRNA expressions of TIMP-1 in healed wound tissue of mice in groups EAT and LAT were significantly increased (with q values respectively 3.929 and 8.299, P<0.05 or P<0.01). Compared with those of group SI, the mRNA and protein expressions of type Ⅲ collagen in healed wound tissue of mice in the other groups and the mRNA and protein expressions of type Ⅰ collagen in healed wound tissue of mice in groups S, EDC, LAT, and LDC were significantly increased (with q values from 7.054 to 11.650, P values below 0.01). Compared with those of group EAT, the mRNA and protein expressions of type Ⅰ collagen in healed wound tissue of mice in groups S, EDC, LAT, and LDC were significantly increased (with q values from 5.156 to 7.451, P<0.05 or P<0.01). Conclusions: AS-1 can effectively promote wound healing and reduce fibrosis degree in the early stage of inflammation response after deep partial-thickness scald in mice, which may be related to its effect in decreasing the expression of inflammation related factors IL-1β and TNF-α and fibrosis related factors TGF-β₁, MMP-1, CTGF, and type Ⅰ collagen.

Lasing mode regulation and single-mode realization in ZnO whispering gallery microcavities by the Vernier effect

The wide direct bandgap and strong exciton binding energy of ZnO have inspired examinations of ultraviolet lasing over the previous decades. However, regulation of the lasing mode, especially the realization of single mode lasing, is still a challenge. In this study, a ZnO comb-like structure with an array of microrods was selected to design coupled whispering-gallery-mode cavities, wherein the naturally varied air-gap between the adjacent microrods created a flexible condition for optical field coupling without any complicated micromanipulation. Spectral behaviour of lasing and coupling interaction between coupled ZnO microrods were systematically investigated. By regulating the nano-scale inter-space of dual coupled microrods, stable single-mode lasing with a higher Q factor and lower threshold was obtained successfully based on the Vernier effect. The formation conditions and the mechanism of single-mode lasing derived from the coupled ZnO microrods were discussed in detail. It also demonstrated an approach to construct high quality single-mode lasing by tuning the diameters of the coupled ZnO microrods.

[Clinical significance of serum C-C chemokine ligand 19 levels in patients with rheumatoid arthritis]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the serum level of C-C chemokine ligand 19 (CCL19) and its clinical significance in rheumatoid arthritis.

METHODS

The serum CCL19 levels in both rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and health controls were detected by ELISA. The proportion of peripheral blood B cells and memory B cell subsets were also detected in some patients. Then the clinical and laboratory data of the patients were collected. The CCL19 levels in patients with different clinical features were analyzed. And the correlation between the clinical data, laboratory parameters, B cell subsets proportion and serum CCL19 levels were also analyzed. Independent samples t test, paired t test, Pearson and Spearman correlation were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The levels of CCL19 was higher in the RA patients than the health controls (P<0.05). The serum CCL19 levels were decreased in the RA patients who accepted disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) treatment for 6 months (P<0.001). Serum CCL19 levels were correlated with the titers of both rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibody (r=0.42, P=0.002; r=0.33, P=0.013), but not with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP) and disease activity score in 28 joints (DAS28) (P>0.05). The levels of CCL19 were higher in the serum positive (RF and anti-CCP antibody) patients, but there were no differences between low and high disease activity RA, as well as early and non-early RA. There was no correlation between the serum CCL19 levels and the proportion of B cells as well as memory B subsets. All the proportion of peripheral blood CD27+ memory B cell subsets in RA was lower than the healthy controls, including CD27+IgD+, CD27+IgD- and CD27+ B cells.

CONCLUSION

The increased serum CCL19 levels in RA patients are associated with the activity of B cells, so CCL19 might predict whether the RA type is a B cell mediated RA, and specify the treatment directions for the rheumatologist.

[Clinical significance of serum C-C chemokine ligand 19 levels in patients with rheumatoid arthritis]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the serum level of C-C chemokine ligand 19 (CCL19) and its clinical significance in rheumatoid arthritis.

METHODS

The serum CCL19 levels in both rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and health controls were detected by ELISA. The proportion of peripheral blood B cells and memory B cell subsets were also detected in some patients. Then the clinical and laboratory data of the patients were collected. The CCL19 levels in patients with different clinical features were analyzed. And the correlation between the clinical data, laboratory parameters, B cell subsets proportion and serum CCL19 levels were also analyzed. Independent samples t test, paired t test, Pearson and Spearman correlation were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The levels of CCL19 was higher in the RA patients than the health controls (P<0.05). The serum CCL19 levels were decreased in the RA patients who accepted disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) treatment for 6 months (P<0.001). Serum CCL19 levels were correlated with the titers of both rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibody (r=0.42, P=0.002; r=0.33, P=0.013), but not with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP) and disease activity score in 28 joints (DAS28) (P>0.05). The levels of CCL19 were higher in the serum positive (RF and anti-CCP antibody) patients, but there were no differences between low and high disease activity RA, as well as early and non-early RA. There was no correlation between the serum CCL19 levels and the proportion of B cells as well as memory B subsets. All the proportion of peripheral blood CD27+ memory B cell subsets in RA was lower than the healthy controls, including CD27+IgD+, CD27+IgD- and CD27+ B cells.

CONCLUSION

The increased serum CCL19 levels in RA patients are associated with the activity of B cells, so CCL19 might predict whether the RA type is a B cell mediated RA, and specify the treatment directions for the rheumatologist.

Isolation, partial characterization, and cloning of an extracellular chitinase from the entomopathogenic fungus Verticillium lecanii

The entomopathogenic fungus Verticillium lecanii is a well-known biocontrol agent of fungal phytopathogens, as well as insect pests. A 42-kDa chitinase belonging to family 18 of the glycosyl hydrolases was isolated and partially characterized. Chitinase was purified using successive column chromatography on phenyl-sepharose, DEAE-sepharose, and CM-sepharose. The enzyme showed the highest activity at 40°C and pH 4.6. Enzyme activity was strongly activated in the presence of Mg(2+). The purified enzyme showed inhibitory activity of spore germination against several plant pathogens, particularly Fusarium moniliforme. The genomic DNA and cDNA sequences were resolved by polymerase chain reaction amplification and sequencing. Protein modeling and comparative investigation of different chitinase amino acids showed that chitinases are conserved in parasitic fungi.

Modification of vectors for functional genomic analysis in plants

Simple, efficient, and economical recombinant plant binary expression vectors for deciphering large-scale functional genomic research in plants and promoting crop improvement by genetically engineering and biotechnology is in great demand. In this research, using the pCHF3, pCAMBIA1301, pCAMBIA3300, pCAMBIA3301 vectors, we successfully constructed general plant binary expression vectors carrying CaMV35S and Arabidopsis rd29A promoters mediating multiple cloning sites (

MCS

SacI, KpnI, SmaI, BamHI, XbaI, SalI, and PstI). Meanwhile, a series of applicative binary expression vectors that can be utilized for subcellular localization were constructed by fusion of the MCS and eGFP. Subsequently, the recombinant vectors were successfully transferred into Arabidopsis thaliana and Nicotiana benthamiana for further investigation of functional elements in these plant binary expression vectors. Our results demonstrated that this system was a convenient and versatile vector system for phenotypic, functional, subcellular localization, and promoter activity analysis, and it provided a relatively high-efficiency and reliable platform for researchers in vector construction and may facilitate large-scale functional genomics analysis in plants.

Effects of graded levels of montmorillonite on performance, hematological parameters and bone mineralization in weaned pigs

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of graded levels of montmorillonite, a constituent of clay, on performance, hematological parameters and bone mineralization in weaned pigs. One hundred and twenty, 35-d-old crossbred pigs (Duroc×Large White×Landrace, 10.50±1.20 kg) were used in a 28-d experiment and fed either an unsupplemented corn-soybean meal basal diet or similar diets supplemented with 0.5, 1.0, 2.5 or 5.0% montmorillonite added at the expense of wheat bran. Each treatment was replicated six times with four pigs (two barrows and two gilts) per replicate. Feed intake declined (linear and quadratic effect, p< 0.01) with increasing level of montmorillonite while feed conversion was improved (linear and quadratic effect, p<0.01). Daily gain was unaffected by dietary treatment. Plasma myeloperoxidase declined linearly (p = 0.03) with increasing dietary level of montmorillonite. Plasma malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels were quadratically affected (p<0.01) by montmorillonite with increases observed for pigs fed the 0.5 and 1.0% levels which then declined for pigs fed the 2.5 and 5.0% treatments. In bone, the content of potassium, sodium, copper, iron, manganese and magnesium were decreased (linear and quadratic effect, p<0.01) in response to an increase of dietary montmorillonite. These results suggest that dietary inclusion of montmorillonite at levels as high as 5.0% does not result in overt toxicity but could induce potential oxidative damage and reduce bone mineralization in pigs.

Effects of graded levels of montmorillonite on performance, hematological parameters and bone mineralization in weaned pigs

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of graded levels of montmorillonite, a constituent of clay, on performance, hematological parameters and bone mineralization in weaned pigs. One hundred and twenty, 35-d-old crossbred pigs (Duroc×Large White×Landrace, 10.50±1.20 kg) were used in a 28-d experiment and fed either an unsupplemented corn-soybean meal basal diet or similar diets supplemented with 0.5, 1.0, 2.5 or 5.0% montmorillonite added at the expense of wheat bran. Each treatment was replicated six times with four pigs (two barrows and two gilts) per replicate. Feed intake declined (linear and quadratic effect, p< 0.01) with increasing level of montmorillonite while feed conversion was improved (linear and quadratic effect, p<0.01). Daily gain was unaffected by dietary treatment. Plasma myeloperoxidase declined linearly (p = 0.03) with increasing dietary level of montmorillonite. Plasma malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels were quadratically affected (p<0.01) by montmorillonite with increases observed for pigs fed the 0.5 and 1.0% levels which then declined for pigs fed the 2.5 and 5.0% treatments. In bone, the content of potassium, sodium, copper, iron, manganese and magnesium were decreased (linear and quadratic effect, p<0.01) in response to an increase of dietary montmorillonite. These results suggest that dietary inclusion of montmorillonite at levels as high as 5.0% does not result in overt toxicity but could induce potential oxidative damage and reduce bone mineralization in pigs.

[Effects of acupuncture stimulation of different acupoint groups on sleeping duration and serum and striatal dopamine contents in rats with gastric mucosal injury]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effect of acupuncture intervention on gastric ulcer (GU) and sleeping quality from the viewpoint of brain-gut axis which plays an important role in the regulation of many vital functions in health and disease.

METHODS

Forty male Wistar rats were randomized into normal control, GU model, acupuncture of "Zhongwan" (CV 12)-"Zusanli" (ST 36, gastric treatment acupoints), acupuncture of "Shenmai" (BL 62)-"Zhaohai" (KI 6, sleep-promotion acupoints), and acupuncture of CV 12-ST 36-BL 62-KI 6 (combined treatment) groups, with 8 rats in each group. GU model was established by intragastric perfusion of dehydrated alcohol (1 mL/rat), and sleep model established by intraperitoneal injection of pentobarbital sodium (40 mg/kg) after the last treatment. The abovementioned acupoints were punctured with filiform needles and stimulated by manipulating the needle for about 30 s, once every 5 mm during 20 mm of needle retention. The treatment was conducted once daily for five days. Gastric mucosal lesion index was assessed by Guth's method, and the mucosal pathological changes were observed under microscope after H. E. staining. The contents of dopamine (DA) in the serum and striatal tissues were detected by ELISA kit.

RESULTS

Compared with the normal control group, the rats' sleeping duration, and serum DA content were markedly decreased and the gastric mucosal lesion index, and the striatal DA content remarkably increased in the model group (P < 0.01). In comparison with the model group, the rats' sleeping duration, and serum DA content were significantly increased, and the gastric mucosal lesion index, and the striatal DA content remarkably down-regulated in the CV 12-ST 36 (gastric treatment acupoints), BL 62-KI 6 (sleep-promotion acupoints) and CV 12-ST 36-BL 62-KI 6 (combined treatment) groups (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). The effects of the combined treatment group were notably superior to those of the sleep promotion acupoints group in reducing mucosal lesion index and in increasing serum DA level (P < 0.01, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Acupuncture stimulation of "Zhongwan" (CV 12), "Zusanli" (ST 36), "Zhaohai" (KI 6) and "Shenmai" (BL 62) can relieve the gastric mucosal lesion, and prolong the sleeping duration in gastric lesion rats, which may be related to its effects in increasing blood DA and lowering striatal DA level, suggesting a correlation between the gastrointestinal disorders and sleeping.