3D Printed Ion-Responsive Personalized Transdermal Patch

Microneedle patches are easy-to-use medical devices for transdermal administration. However, the insufficient insertion of microneedles due to the gap between planar patches and contoured skin affects drug delivery. Herein, we formulate a prepolymer for high-fidelity three-dimensional (3D) printed personalized transdermal patches. With the excellent photoinitiation ability of 2-(4-methoxystyryl)-4,6-bis(trichloromethyl)-1,3,5-triazine (Tz), a high-fidelity and precise microneedle patch is successfully fabricated. Upon irradiation of the white illuminator, the doped gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in the patch release heat and promisingly induce sweat production. With the introduction of Na+, the dominant component of sweat, the curvature of the produced transdermal patch is observed due to the ion-induced network rearrangement. The alkanethiol-stabilized AuNP with an end group of a carboxyl group causes controlled drug release behavior. Furthermore, the irradiation-induced photothermal heating of AuNP can facilitate the sustainability of drug release thanks to the substantially increased particle size of AuNP. These findings demonstrate that the developed prepolymer is a promising candidate for the production of transdermal patches fitting the curvature of the body surface.

[Analysis of clinical characteristics of children with adenoid hypertrophy and pharyngolaryngeal reflux]

Objectives: To explore the clinical characteristics of children with adenoid hypertrophy (AH) and laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) by detecting the expression of pepsin in adenoids as a standard for AH with LPR. Methods: A total of 190 children who were admitted for surgical treatment due to AH were included in the study. The main clinical symptoms of the patients were recorded, and the degree of adenoid hypertrophy was evaluated. Before the surgery, Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) and Reflux Finding Score (RFS) were used to evaluate the reflux symptoms. After the surgery, pepsin immunohistochemical staining was performed on the adenoid tissue, and according to the staining results, the patients were divided into study group (pepsin staining positive) and control group (pepsin staining negative). SPSS 19.0 software was used for statistical analysis. Quantitative data conforming to normal distribution between the two groups were tested by two-independent sample t test, and quantitative data with skewed distribution were tested by Mann-Whitney U test. Results: The positive rate of pepsin staining in the 190 AH patients was 78.4% (149/190). The study group had higher levels of preoperative symptoms such as erythema and/or congestion of the pharynx(2.1±0.7 vs. 1.8±0.6,t=2.23), vocal cord edema[1.0(0, 1.0) vs. 1.0(0, 1.0), Z=2.00], diffuse laryngeal edema[0(0, 1.0) vs. 0(0, 0), Z=2.48], posterior commissure hypertrophy[(1.4±0.6 vs. 1.1±0.5), t=2.63], and a higher total score on the RFS scale than the control group(6.2±2.7 vs. 5.0±2.6, t=2.47), with statistical differences (P<0.05). The sensitivity and specificity of RFS score in diagnosing AH with LPR were 24.8% and 80.5%, respectively. When RFS>5 was used as the positive threshold, the sensitivity and specificity of RFS score in diagnosing AH with LPR were 61.1% and 58.5%, respectively. There was a statistical difference in the number of positive cases of RFS score between the study group and the control group(91 vs. 17,χ2=5.04,P=0.032). Conclusions: LPR is common in AH children. Children with AH and LPR have specific performance in electronic laryngoscopy, such as erythema with edema in the pharynx, posterior commissure hypertrophy, and vocal cord edema.

[Challenges and countermeasures in the development of artificial intelligence research in ophthalmology]

The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) technology has led to revolutionary advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of ophthalmic diseases, introducing a novel AI-assisted diagnostic approach for ophthalmology that is rich in imaging diagnostic technologies. However, as clinical applications continue to evolve, AI research in ophthalmology faces challenges such as the lack of standardized datasets and innovative algorithm models, insufficient cross-modal information fusion, and limited clinical interpretability. In response to the growing demand for AI research in ophthalmology, it is essential to establish ophthalmic data standards and sharing platforms, innovate core algorithms, and develop clinical logic interpretable models for the screening, diagnosis, and prediction of eye diseases. Additionally, the deep integration of cutting-edge technologies such as 5G, virtual reality, and surgical robots would advance the development of ophthalmic intelligent medicine into a new phase.

Correlation research of serum substance P, CCK-8, and 5-HT values with depression levels in stroke survivors

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the correlation of serum octapeptide cholecystokinin-8 (CCK-8), substance P (SP), and 5-hydroxytryptryptamine (5-HT) values with depression levels in patients with post-stroke depression (PSD). It also aimed to explore the potential approach for the early diagnosis of PSD.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A correlation research between patients' biochemical indicators and depression levels was performed among 70 stroke patients during hospitalization from June 2021 to February 2022. The 70 stroke patients were selected and divided into post-stroke depression and non-depression groups according to the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) score. The concentrations of CCK-8, SP, and 5-HT in both groups were measured, and the relationship between the values of CCK-8, SP, 5-HT and the depression levels was analyzed.

RESULTS

Among the 70 stroke survivors, 35 were in the depression group and 35 were in the non-depression group. Significant differences were observed in the concentration of CCK-8, SP, and 5-HT between the patients in the depression and non-depression group (p < 0.05). Accompanied by an increase in the depression level, the SP value gradually increased, but the CCK-8 and 5-HT values gradually decreased. Spearman correlation analysis indicated that the order of the correlation between CCK-8, 5-HT, SP, and the depression levels was CCK-8 > SP > 5-HT.

CONCLUSIONS

All the CCK-8, SP and 5-HT values were correlated with the depression levels in stroke survivors. Furthermore, the correlation between CCK-8, SP, and post-stroke depression levels was higher than that of 5-HT, suggesting that the early diagnosis of PSD may be reflected more precisely through the detection of CCK-8, and SP values, thus providing potential priority for biochemical detection in the diagnosis of PSD.

Characterization data of reference materials used for phase II of the priority program DFG SPP 2005 "Opus Fluidum Futurum - Rheology of reactive, multiscale, multiphase construction materials"

A thorough characterization of base materials is the prerequisite for further research. In this paper, the characterization data of the reference materials (CEM I 42.5 R, limestone powder, calcined clay and a mixture of these three components) used in the second funding phase of the priority program 2005 of the German Research Foundation (DFG SPP 2005) are presented under the aspects of chemical and mineralogical composition as well as physical and chemical properties. The data were collected based on tests performed by up to eleven research groups involved in this cooperative program.

[Characteristics and related factors of viral nucleic acid negative conversion in children infected with Omicron variant strain of SARS-CoV-2]

Objective: To understand the characteristics and associated factors of viral nucleic acid conversion in children infected with Omicron variant strain of SARS-CoV-2 in Shanghai. Methods: The clinical symptoms, laboratory results and other data of 177 children infected with SARS-CoV-2 who were hospitalized in Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University (designated hospital for SARS-CoV-2 infection in Shanghai) from April 25 to June 8, 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. According to the chest imaging findings, the children were divided into mild and common type groups. According to their age, the unvaccinated children were divided into<3 years old group and 3-<18 years old group. According to the vaccination status, the children aged 3-<18 year were divided into non-vaccination group, 1-dose vaccination group and 2-dose vaccination group. Comparison between groups was performed by independent sample t-test and analysis of variance, and multivariate linear regression analysis was used for multivariate analysis. Results: Among the 177 children infected with Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2, 96 were males and 81 were females, aged 3 (1, 6) years. The time of viral nucleic acid negative conversion was (10.3±3.1) days. The 177 children were 138 cases of mild type and 39 cases of common type. Among the children aged 3-<18 years old, 55 cases were not vaccinated, 5 cases received 1-dose and 36 cases received 2-dose vaccination. Among the 36 children who received 2 doses of vaccination, the time of viral nucleic acid negative conversion was shorter in those vaccinated within 6 months than those over 6 months ((7.1±1.9) vs. (10.8±3.0) d, t=-3.23, P=0.004). Univariate analysis showed that the time of nucleic acid negative conversion of SARS-CoV-2 was associated with age, underlying diseases, gastrointestinal symptoms, white blood cell count, proportion of neutrophils, proportion of lymphocytes, and the number of doses of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine (t=3.87, 2.55, 2.04, 4.24, 3.51, 2.92, F=16.27, all P<0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that older age (β=-0.33, 95% CI -0.485--0.182, P<0.001) and more doses of vaccination (β=-0.79, 95% CI -1.463--0.120, P=0.021) were associated with shortened nucleic acid negative conversion time in children, while lower lymphocyte proportion (β=-0.02, 95% CI -0.044--0.002, P=0.031) and underlying diseases (β=1.52, 95% CI 0.363-2.672, P=0.010) were associated with prolonged nucleic acid negative conversion time in children. Conclusion: The children infected with Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 with reduced lymphocyte proportion and underlying diseases may have longer time of viral nucleic acid negative conversion,while children with older age and more doses of vaccination may have shorter time of viral nucleic acid negative conversion.

[Striving to promote precise diagnosis of dry eye]

Dry eye is a common ocular surface disease worldwide that affects the patients' visual quality and life quality. Correctly distinguishing its etiology, severity and subtypes is the basis for precise diagnosis and effective treatment. This article summarizes the challenges and bottlenecks in the development of dry eye precise diagnosis, and discusses the current situation and development trend of dry eye diagnosis from traditional evaluation methods to novel diagnostic techniques, aiming to provide reference and guidance for promotion of clinical precise diagnosis of dry eye.

Water-soluble/visible-light-sensitive naphthalimide derivative-based photoinitiating systems: 3D printing of antibacterial hydrogels

Adaptability of hydrogels allows these structures to be used in a variety of industries, including biomedicine, soft electronics, and sensors. In this study, 10 different naphthalimide derivatives were prepared (five...

[Advances and controversies of statins application in prevention and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma]

Statins, as lipid-regulating drugs, have been widely used in the treatment for hyperlipidemia and the primary and secondary prevention of cardio-cerebrovascular diseases. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a serious burden of liver disease in China with poor prognosis, thus effective adjuvant drug used for HCC treatment has attracted much attention. Statins can suppress tumor growth, decrease the risk of tumorigenesis and postoperative recurrence of HCC, extend the survival time and improve the therapeutic effect of other treatment, therefore might increase the benefit obtained by the HCC patients. Statins also can impact the expression of MAPK/ERK signaling pathway, promote the apoptosis of malignant cells and ameliorate the HCC risk of hepatitis B virus infected patients. Statins not only prevents the HCC, but also has part therapeutic effect on the different stage of HCC. Although it can't replace the operation, radiofrequency ablation, molecular targeted treatment and immunotherapy currently, statins may be a potential adjuvant drug to provide clinical benefit for HCC patients. The advancement of statins application in the prevention and treatment of HCC has attracted more attention recently, however, discussion and controversy also existed about whether it can eventually become an adjuvant therapy for HCC. The purpose of this paper is to summarize and comment on the new development and disputes of statins application in the prevention and treatment of HCC in recent years, to provide help for the future clinical practice.

Optomechanical crystals for spatial sensing of submicron sized particles

Optomechanical crystal cavities (OMC) have rich perspectives for detecting and indirectly analysing biological particles, such as proteins, bacteria and viruses. In this work we demonstrate the working principle of OMCs operating under ambient conditions as a sensor of submicrometer particles by optically monitoring the frequency shift of thermally activated mechanical modes. The resonator has been specifically designed so that the cavity region supports a particular family of low modal-volume mechanical modes, commonly known as -pinch modes-. These involve the oscillation of only a couple of adjacent cavity cells that are relatively insensitive to perturbations in other parts of the resonator. The eigenfrequency of these modes decreases as the deformation is localized closer to the centre of the resonator. Thus, by identifying specific modes that undergo a frequency shift that amply exceeds the mechanical linewidth, it is possible to infer if there are particles deposited on the resonator, how many are there and their approximate position within the cavity region. OMCs have rich perspectives for detecting and indirectly analysing biological particles, such as proteins, viruses and bacteria.

[Association between hyperuricemia and incidence risk for cardiometabolic abnormity in children]

Objective: To investigate the relationships between hyperuricemia and the incidence risk for cardiometabolic abnormity in children. Methods: Data were obtained from School-based Cardiovascular and Bone Health Promotion Program. In 2017, a total of 15 391 children aged 6-16 years in Beijing were selected through stratified cluster sampling at baseline survey. Follow-up investigation was conducted in 2019. Logistic regression model was used to analyze the relationships of uric acid quartiles and change in uric acid levels with incidence risks for cardiometabolic abnormity (hypertension, hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia). Results: A total of 8 807 children (4 376 boys, 4 431 girls) were included in the analysis, the average age of the children was (11.1±3.3) years at baseline survey. The adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of incidence risk for hypertension in the third and fourth quartiles of the UA were 1.39 (1.11-1.75) and 1.56 (1.19-1.81), respectively. The ORs and 95% CIs of risk for high LDL-C in the second, third and fourth quartiles were 1.88 (1.16-3.05),1.98 (1.23-3.17) and 2.25 (1.42-3.57). The uric acid level increased by one standard deviation, the risk increased by 17% for hypertension and 27% for high LDL-C. The uric acid level increased by 10 μmol/L, the risk increased by 2.1% for hypertension and 2.9% for high LDL-C. The gender-stratified analysis showed that the similar results. The ORs and 95% CIs were 1.32 (1.09-1.60) and 1.50 (1.05-2.16) for hypertension, 1.90 (1.38-2.60) and 2.96 (1.58-5.52) for high TC, 1.78 (1.26-2.51) and 2.84 (1.60-5.03) for high LDL-C in the groups of newly diagnosed hyperuricemia and persistent hyperuricemia. Conclusions: Higher uric acid level was associated with increased incidence risks for hypertension, abnormal TC and LDL-C. Maintaining optimal uric acid level by children might contribute to the early prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

[Association of vitamin D nutritional status with body muscle mass in school-age children adolescents]

Objective: To investigate the association between vitamin D nutritional status and the body muscle mass in children. Methods: Data were obtained from School-based Cardiovascular and Bone Health Promotion Program. In 2017, a total of 15 391 children aged 6-16 years in Beijing were selected through stratified cluster sampling in baseline survey. A follow-up investigation was conducted in 2019. The questionnaire survey and the detection of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] level were conducted. The bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) apparatus was used to measure body muscle mass, and muscle mass index (MMI) was calculated. Multivariable linear models were used to analyze the association of vitamin D nutritional status with the baseline and follow-up MMI measures. Results: A total of 10 890 children aged (11.5±3.3) years(boys accounting for 49.6%) were included in the analysis. The average 25(OH)D level was (35.4±12.0) nmol/L, with an adequacy ratio of 11.1%. After multivariate linear regression adjustment for age, sex, body fat mass, smoking status, alcohol use status, dairy supplement, calcium supplement, physical activity, and pubertal development, no statistically significant association between vitamin D nutritional status and baseline MMI level was observed (P>0.05). For the follow-up MMI, the Z-score increased by 0.008 (P=0.058) for per 10 nmol/L increase in 25(OH)D, which were 0.002 (P=0.815) and 0.037 (P=0.031) higher in children with insufficient and adequate vitamin D than those with vitamin D deficiency, respectively (P for trend =0.089). Subgroup analysis showed that in the normal BMI group, for per 10 nmol/L increase in 25 (OH) D, the MMI at baseline survey and MMI Z-score at follow-up of children with adequate vitamin D and increased by 0.019 and 0.014, respectively (both P<0.05). Conclusions: Vitamin D nutritional status was related to muscle mass in children, and children with adequate vitamin D tended to obtain higher MMI. Children and adolescents are encouraged to maintain sufficient vitamin D levels, strengthen nutrition and exercise to promote body health.

[Study on the association between vitamin D and body fat distribution in children and adolescents]

Objective: To investigate the association of vitamin D with distribution of body fat in children and adolescents. Methods: Data were obtained from the baseline survey of School-based Cardiovascular and Bone Health Promotion Program in 2017. Multiple linear regression and multinomial logistic regression models were applied to analyze the relationships of body mass index (BMI), fat mass index (FMI), trunk fat mass index (TFMI), appendicular fat mass index (AFMI), and visceral fat area(VFA) with vitamin D level and status in children and adolescents. Results: A total of 11 960 children and adolescents were included in the analysis (boys accounting for 49.7%). The average age and serum vitamin D level of study population were (11.0±3.3) years and (35.0±11.9) nmol/L, respectively. The deficiency rate of vitamin D was 37.2%. Gender-specific associations of BMI, FMI, TFMI, and AFMI with vitamin D level were found (P for interaction <0.05): they were inversely associated with vitamin D level in boys (BMI: β=-0.56; FMI: β =-0.59; TFMI: β=-0.60; AFMI: β=-0.59; all P<0.05), but not in girls (P>0.05). VFA was positively associated with vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency in both boys and girls, and the risks of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency all increased by 17%(95%CI: 9%-25%) for per increment of standard deviation in VFA. Conclusions: The higher level of visceral fat was associated with the lower vitamin D levels in children. Abdominal obese children and boys with excessive body fat are the key population in the prevention and control of vitamin D deficiency.

[A prospective cohort study on the associations between vitamin D nutritional status and cardiometabolic abnormities in children]

Objective: To investigate the relationships between vitamin D nutritional status and the risks of cardiometabolic abnormities in children. Methods: Data were obtained from the School-based Cardiovascular and Bone Health Promotion Program. In 2017, a total of 15 391 children aged 6-16 years in Beijing were selected by using a stratified cluster sampling method in the baseline survey. A Follow-up investigation was conducted in 2019. Log-binomial regression was used to analyze the relationships between baseline vitamin D nutritional status and the risks of cardiometabolic abnormities (obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia). Results: A total of 10 482 participants were involved in the study. The average vitamin D level was (35.6 ± 12.0) nmol/L, and the deficiency rate was 35.1%. The 2-year cumulative incidence rates of obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, high TC, high LDL-C, low HDL-C, high TG, and high non-HDL-C were 4.3%, 10.8%, 8.5%, 3.1%, 2.5%, 3.4%, 2.5%, and 3.9% respectively. After the adjustment of potential confounding factors, children with vitamin D inadequacy or deficiency had higher risks of high TC [RR (95%CI): inadequacy, 2.06 (1.19-3.58); deficiency, 2.80 (1.61-4.89)], high LDL-C [RR (95%CI): inadequacy, 1.67 (1.02-2.73); deficiency, 1.99 (1.19-3.33)], and high non-HDL-C [RR (95%CI): inadequacy, 2.00 (1.26-3.17); deficiency, 2.45 (1.53-3.92)] compared with children with adequate vitamin D, and the risks of them increased with the decrease of vitamin D level (trend P<0.05). The gender-stratified analysis showed that vitamin D deficiency was remained associated with high TC [RR (95%CI): boy, 2.64 (1.19-5.87); girl, 3.13 (1.43-6.83)] and high non-HDL-C [RR (95%CI): boy, 2.58(1.40-4.77); girl, 2.31 (1.10-4.84)]. Conclusions: The risks of abnormal TC, LDL-C, and non-HDL-C were inversely associated with vitamin D level. Maintenance of adequate vitamin D status in children may contribute to the early prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

N-Aryl glycines as versatile initiators for various polymerizations

N-(1-Pyrenyl)glycine can act as a versatile initiator for various polymerizations.

Activation pattern during his pacing: how close are we to normal physiology?

Background

His bundle pacing aims to mimic the activation pattern of normal conduction to maintain ventricular synchrony. However, selective His capture can be challenging, and the activation sequence during His pacing may not replicate normal conduction.

Purpose

Compare the right ventricular (RV) and left ventricular (LV) activation pattern in sinus rhythm and His bundle pacing.

Methods

Baseline LV and RV map was created in sinus rhythm using Rhythmia mapping system (Boston Scientific Corporation) in canine animal model. Medtronic 3830 lead was placed near the bundle of His under fluoroscopic, intracardiac echocardiogram, and electroanatomic guidance. Conduction system capture was confirmed by observing a QRS duration &lt;120ms and an isoelectric segment between pacing artifact and QRS on surface ECG. Repeat LV and RV activation map was obtained during His pacing. Average QRS, HV and pacing to V intervals were calculated with standard deviation.

Results

Mapping was performed successfully in four animals. At baseline, the average QRS duration was 44±2.6ms and HV interval was 32±4.2ms. Earliest site of myocardial activation was in the mid-septal LV region. The earliest RV myocardial activation was also at the septum closer to the apex, but later than the LV (Figure1A). With His pacing, the average QRS duration was 70±17.0ms and the average stim to V interval was 31±8.7ms. During His pacing, the earliest site of activation was in the RV septum, with an activation pattern from base to apex in both the RV and LV.

Conclusion

Unlike normal physiology, the activation pattern during conduction system pacing is from base to apex with earliest site in the RV.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): Mayo Clinic

Silence of MiR-9 protects depression mice through Notch signaling pathway

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the potential influence of micro ribonucleic acid (miR)-9 on depressive behaviors of depression mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Depression model in mice was established via chronic unpredictable mild stress. A total of 36 C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into control group (control mice, n=12), model group (depression mice administrated with control lentivirus, n=12) and miR-9 low-expression group (depression mice administrated with LV-miR-9-shRNA lentivirus, n=12). After 6 weeks, the depressive behaviors of mice were evaluated by behavioral experiments. Mice were then sacrificed for harvesting the hippocampus. Relative level of miR-9 in mouse hippocampus was determined via quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Moreover, the number of newborn neurons in the hippocampus in each group was detected via immunofluorescence assay. Expression levels of doublecortin (DCX), post-synaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) and Notch signaling pathway in the hippocampus in each group were detected via Western blotting.

RESULTS

In the open field test, there were no significant differences in the crossing score and rearing score among control group, model group and miR-9 low-expression group (p>0.05). The immobility time of mice in tail suspension test and forced swimming test increased significantly in model group compared with that in control group (p<0.01), while it was significantly shorter in miR-9 low-expression group than that in model group (p<0.01). The expression of miR-9 in mouse hippocampus in model group was significantly higher than that in control group and miR-9 low-expression group (p<0.01). In miR-9 low-expression group, the number of newborn neurons in the hippocampus was significantly larger than that in control group and model group (p<0.01). Protein levels of both DCX and PSD95 were significantly higher in control group than those in model group (p<0.01). Besides, protein levels of Notch intracellular domain (NICD), Hes1 and Jag1 in the hippocampus in model group were remarkably declined compared with those in control group (p<0.01), which were higher in miR-9 low-expression group.

CONCLUSIONS

MiR-9 is upregulated in the hippocampus of depression mice. Silence of miR-9 in the hippocampus can effectively activate the Notch signaling pathway, promote the neuronal regeneration in the hippocampus and improve the depressive symptoms of mice.

MicroRNA-544 inhibits inflammatory response and cell apoptosis after cerebral ischemia reperfusion by targeting IRAK4

OBJECTIVE

Stroke remains the most common malignant cerebrovascular event in the world. The correlation between the expression of miR-544 and the degree of cerebral ischemia reperfusion (CIR) injury has not been well recognized in recent years. This study focuses on the effect of miR-544 on inflammation and apoptosis after CIR.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Plasma expression of miR-544 in ischemic stroke (IS) patients and healthy controls was determined by quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The effects of miR-544 on cerebral infarction and neurological deficits were verified in vitro by tail vein injection of Ago-miR-544. Western blotting was utilized to examine protein expressions of key proteins involving in inflammation and apoptosis in mouse brain. Western blotting, immunofluorescence staining and luciferase assays were used to demonstrate whether miR-544 influences the expression of interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 4 (IRAK4), downstream inflammatory and apoptosis-related proteins.

RESULTS

MiR-544 was found decreased in peripheral blood of IS patients compared with healthy controls. MiR-544 has been shown to relieve neurological deficits and reduce the volume of cerebral infarction in mice. Overexpression of miR-544 ameliorated the inflammation and apoptotic responses in brain tissue after ischemia reperfusion by down-regulating the expression of IRAK4, whereas the low expression was opposite in vivo and in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that miR-544 may participate in controlling inflammation and apoptosis after ischemia-reperfusion by targeting IRAK4, providing possible diagnostic indicators and therapeutic targets for IS.

Correlations of neuronal apoptosis with expressions of c-Fos and c-Jun in rats with post-ischemic reconditioning damage

OBJECTIVE

Transcription factors (c-Fos and c-Jun) have been considered to play roles in the initiation of programmed nerve cell death. However, the roles of c-Fos and c-Jun protein expressions in neuronal apoptosis of rats with post-ischemic reconditioning damage were not clarified. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the correlations of protein expressions of c-Fos and c-Jun with neuronal apoptosis of rats with post-ischemic reconditioning damage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rat models of post-ischemic reconditioning were established firstly. Then, apoptosis was assessed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay, and the gene expression levels of apoptosis-related proteins [cytochrome c (Cyt c), B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) and Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax)] were detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Lastly, Western blotting was used to determine the protein expression levels of c-Fos and c-Jun, and the expressions of c-Fos and c-Jun in brain tissues of models were measured by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Treatment group had significantly increased malonaldehyde (MDA) level and significantly decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in rat cortex compared with those in control group (p<0.05). The number of TUNEL positive cells in the right cortex of rats in the treatment group was clearly higher than that in control group. Among them, post-ischemic reperfusion group had reduced level of Bax in the cytoplasm, but increased Bax level in the mitochondrion, and lowered expression level of Bcl-2 in both mitochondrion and cytoplasm in comparison with control group. Dynamic detection results of c-Jun were in synchronization with those of apoptosis proteins, and maximum expression occurred at 24 h after treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

c-Jun may play a role in the initiation of apoptotic cell death in these neurons.

[Clinical efficacy and safety of specific immunotherapy for allergic rhinitis with cervical lymph node injection]

Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of intralymphatic immunotherapy with cervical lymph node injection for allergic rhinitis. Method: A retrospective analysis of 81 patients with allergic rhinitis(AR) who had received specific immunotherapy with cervical lymph node injection in 2016 in the first people's Hospital of Foshan was conducted. The neck lymph node immunotherapy under the guidance of color Doppler ultrasound consisted of three sessions, and in each session 50 Tu(Arog) was delivered. The scores of nasal and ocular symptoms, drug score and adverse reactions during treatment were recorded before and after treatment, and the efficacy and safety were observed. Result: Before treatment, the nasal symptoms score of 81 AR cases of mite allergy was 7.00±1.65. After 1,2 and 3 sessions of cervical lymph node immune therapy and 1 year after completion of treatment, the nasal symptom scores were 4.37±1.88, 4.26±1.80, 4.22±1.80, and 4.09±2.10,respectively, which were significantly lower than that before treatment(P<0.01). The quality of life score was 53.68±9.28 before treatment, which decreased to 23.01±13.28 one year after treatment, and the difference was statistically significant(P<0.01). The drug score was 3.27±1.17 before treatment, which decreased to 1.00±1.05 1 years after treatment, and the difference was statistically significant(P<0.01). During treatment and 1-year follow-up, only 8 cases had mild local reactions, and no systemic adverse reactions occurred. Conclusion: Cervical lymph node injection specific immunotherapy can significantly relieve the symptoms of dust mite allergic rhinitis. The treatment is effective and safe, and greatly shortens the duration of immune treatment.

[Analysis on the relationship between Occupational Stress Factors and Psychological Stress Reaction among Petrochemical Workers]

Objective: Analyze the detection rates of occupational contraindication and suspected occupational disease from the employee exposure to noise and describe the distribution characteristics. Methods: According to the Technical Specifications for Occupational Health Surveillance (GBZ 188-2014) 、Diagnosis of Occupational Noise-induced Deafness (GBZ 49-2014) and Guideline of Identification of Contraindication to Job Placement (GBZ/T 260-2014) , calculate and analyze the occupational contraindication and suspected occupational disease detection rates of 149 271 workers from January 1st to December 31st in 2015 who were exposed to noise. Analyze the detection rates distribution characteristics between different gender, age, seniority, industry and enterprise scale. Results: The detection rates of occupational contraindication is 2.08%. The suspected occupational disease detection rates of absences workers (2.13%) is higher than during (2.03%) . The occupational contraindication detection rates of< age 20 (2.64%) , 41~50 years old (2.48%) and<1 working years (5.35%) , are higher than others. The detection rates of suspected occupational disease increases with the growth of ages and working years. The occupational contraindication detection rates of scientific research and technology services industry (10.46%) is the highest. The suspected occupational disease detection rates of transportation warehousing and postal services (5.88%) is the highest. The occupational contraindication detection rates of medium-sized enterprise (2.27%) is the highest, meanwhile, the microenterprise's (1.60%) is the lowest. The suspected occupational disease detection rates of large-scale enterprise (3.21%) is the highest, meanwhile, the microenterprise's (1.33%) is the lowest. Conclusion: Enterprise should insist on regular occupational health examination, strengthen screening of occupational contraindication in new workers, especially pre-job workers and detect the occupational disease patients early. Focus on non-traditional noise industries above mentioned, improve intensity of noise hazards prevention and control. The detection rates of occupational contraindication and suspected occupational disease can be used as a reference standard for the quality control of occupational examination and report of medical institutions.

[The association between blood lipids and calcaneus bone mineral density in children and adolescents aged 6-16 years in Beijing]

Objective: To investigate the association between blood lipid and calcaneus bone mineral density (BMD) in children and adolescents aged 6-16 years in Beijing. Methods: Children and adolescents were selected in 30 schools (8 primary schools, 21 middle schools and one 12-year education school) from Dongcheng, Tongzhou, Fangshan and Miyun districts of Beijing by using a stratified cluster sampling method from November 2017 to January 2018. A total of 14 303 students in grade 1 to 4 of primary school, grade 1 of junior and senior middle school were enrolled after excluding subjects who were not able to participate into this study due to trauma or other uncomfortable physical conditions or with missing key values or with diabetes and kidney diseases. Questionnaire survey, blood lipid and calcaneus BMD were conducted. Multivariate linear regression was applied to quantify the association between calcaneal BMD as a dependent variable and blood lipid level as an independent variable after adjusting for the potential confounding factors. Furthermore, quantile regression was used to analyze the association between blood lipid level and different percentiles (P(25), P(50) and P(75)) of ultrasonic velocity values of bone mineral density, and parallel test was conducted for regression coefficients of different percentiles. Results: A total of 14 303 participants aged (11.4±3.3) years (49.9% boys) were involved in the analysis. The mean age of 14 303 participants was (11.0±3.3) years. 7 142 boys accounted for 49.9%. The mean±SD of calcaneal BMD, total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), and high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) were (1 540.9±33.8) m/s, (3.90±0.76), (2.18±0.62), and (1.40±0.32) mmol/L, respectively. The P(5)0 (P(25), P(75)) of triglyceride (TG) was 0.69 (0.49-0.94) mmol/L. After the adjustment of age, height, smoking, drinking, vitamin D and calcium supplementation, dairy intake, physical activity, FMI, and MMI, a significantly inverse association (P<0.05) between TG level and calcaneus BMD was observed in both genders, which the regression coefficients (95%CI) in boys and girls were -0.064 (-0.085, -0.044) and -0.073 (-0.094, -0.053), respectively. Conclusion: The level of BMD was associated with TG in boys and girls. Therefore, it is important to prevent children from hypertriglyceridemia for the bone health promotion.

Amphiphilic polymer coated nanodiamonds: a promising platform to deliver azonafide

An amphiphilic polymer is grafted on nanodiamonds to improve the colloidal stability and to deliver an anticancer drug azonafide.

Research on the nutrition and cognition of high-risk stroke groups in community and the relevant factors

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence rate of nutritional risk in high-risk stroke groups in community, analyze its influencing factors, and analyze and compare the relationship between nutritional risk or malnutrition assessed by different nutritional evaluation methods and cognitive function, so as to provide the basis and guidance for clinical nutritional assessment and support.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was performed for 1196 cases in high-risk stroke groups in community from December 2015 to January 2017. At the same time, the nutritional status of patients was evaluated using the mini nutritional assessment (MNA) and MNA-short form (MNA-SF), and the cognitive status of patients was evaluated using the mini-mental state examination (MMSE). Moreover, the relevant influencing factors of nutritional risk and MMSE score were analyzed and compared.

RESULTS

High-risk stroke groups in community suffered from a high risk of malnutrition. MNA-SF had a higher specificity and lower false positive rate than MNA. Nutritional risk occurred more easily in high-risk stroke groups in community with a history of diabetes mellitus, less physical exercise or light manual labor, daily use of multiple drugs, and higher age. Those with a higher nutritional risk were more prone to cognitive impairment. High-risk stroke groups in community, complicated with hyperhomocysteinemia, daily use of three or more kinds of prescription drugs, and a previous history of stroke, were accompanied by cognitive impairment easily.

CONCLUSIONS

MNA-SF can be used for the nutritional screening of high-risk stroke groups in community. For the high-risk stroke groups in community, the rational nutritional diet should be publicized, blood sugar should be controlled in a scientific manner and physical exercise should be moderately increased.

[Exploratory analysis on burden of disease attributable to asbestosis from 2006 to 2015]

Objective: To analyze the levels and trends of the burden of disease attributable to asbestosis from 2006 to 2015. Methods: Theincidence of asbestosis from 2006 to 2015 was used for calculation, with data of disability weight and remission rate from Global burden of disease study 2015 (GBD 2015) and DisMoD-MR 2.1 software for the calculation of duration and age of year onset. The reference template of GBD was adopted to calculate disability adjusted life year (DALY) , year of life lost (YLL) and year of lived with disability (YLD) value in order to analyze the level and changing trend of burden of disease attributable to asbestosis. Results: A total YLD attributable to asbestosis during 2006 and 2015 in China was 39632. The YLD burden of female was more severe than male, which accounted for 20361 in female and 19271 in male. In 2015, DALY attributable to asbestosis decreased from 8623.76 in 2006 to 6436. Among that, in 2015, YLD was 6436 and YLL was 73.76. 2006 had a highest level of DALY and 2008 had the lowest level of DALY, which accounted for 8623.76 in 2006 and 1558 in 2008. DALY during 2008 and 2015 had a fluctuant increase, and both male and female had such trend. Conclusion: The level of burden of disease attributable to asbestosis is higher in male than in female during 2006 and 2015. Between 2006 and 2015, burden of disease attributable to asbestosis has a fluctuant increase trend.

A synchrotron X-ray diffraction deconvolution method for the measurement of residual stress in thermal barrier coatings as a function of depth

The average residual stress distribution as a function of depth in an air plasma-sprayed yttria stabilized zirconia top coat used in thermal barrier coating (TBC) systems was measured using synchrotron radiation X-ray diffraction in reflection geometry on station I15 at Diamond Light Source, UK, employing a series of incidence angles. The stress values were calculated from data deconvoluted from diffraction patterns collected at increasing depths. The stress was found to be compressive through the thickness of the TBC and a fluctuation in the trend of the stress profile was indicated in some samples. Typically this fluctuation was observed to increase from the surface to the middle of the coating, decrease a little and then increase again towards the interface. The stress at the interface region was observed to be around 300 MPa, which agrees well with the reported values. The trend of the observed residual stress was found to be related to the crack distribution in the samples, in particular a large crack propagating from the middle of the coating. The method shows promise for the development of a nondestructive test for as-manufactured samples.

Personal identification based on skin texture features from the forearm and multi-modal imaging

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

We investigate the use of skin texture features from the inner forearm as a means for personal identification. The forearm offers a number of potential advantages in that it is a fairly accessible area, and, compared with other zones such as fingertips, is less exposed to the elements and more shielded from wear.

METHODS

We extract and combine skin textural features from two imaging devices (optical and capacitive) with the aim of discriminating between different individuals. Skin texture images from 43 subjects were acquired from three different body parts (back of the hand, forearm and palm); testing used the two sensors either separately or in combination.

RESULTS

Skin texture features from the forearm proved effective for discriminating between different individuals with overall recognition accuracy approaching 96%.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that skin texture features from the forearm are highly individual-specific and therefore suitable for personal identification. Interestingly, forearm skin texture features yielded significantly better accuracy compared to the skin of the back of the hand and of the palm of the same subjects.

[Autocorrelation analysis of pneumoconiosis in China]

Objective: Using spatial autocorrelation analysis to study spatial distribution characteristics of pneumoconiosis in China. Methods: The incidence of pneumoconiosis of each province from 2009 to 2013 was calculated by reported data of pneumoconiosis and the number of employment in mining and manufacturing of each province from Chinese statistical yearbook. The global and local spatial autocorrelation analysis was im-plemented by global and local's Moran's I index respectively. Results: A total of 112 066 new cases of pneumo-coniosis were reported from 2009 to 2013 in China, Global Moran's I from 2009 to 2013 was -0.114、0.179、0.199、0.259 and 0.241 respectively. A total of 15 space units with statistical significance were detected by local spatial autocorrelation analysis, which were mainly high-high regions. Conclusion: There was weak global spa-tial autocorrelation relationship of the incidence of pneumoconiosis from 2010 to 2013 among the provinces in China. The results of local spatial autocorrelation analysis suggested that there were clustering regions of pneumo-coniosis in the southwest and central south of China.

Skin image retrieval using Gabor wavelet texture feature

OBJECTIVE

Skin imaging plays a key role in many clinical studies. We have used many skin imaging techniques, including the recently developed capacitive contact skin imaging based on fingerprint sensors. The aim of this study was to develop an effective skin image retrieval technique using Gabor wavelet transform, which can be used on different types of skin images, but with a special focus on skin capacitive contact images.

METHODS

Content-based image retrieval (CBIR) is a useful technology to retrieve stored images from database by supplying query images. In a typical CBIR, images are retrieved based on colour, shape, texture, etc. In this study, texture feature is used for retrieving skin images, and Gabor wavelet transform is used for texture feature description and extraction.

RESULTS

The results show that the Gabor wavelet texture features can work efficiently on different types of skin images. Although Gabor wavelet transform is slower compared with other image retrieval techniques, such as principal component analysis (PCA) and grey-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM), Gabor wavelet transform is the best for retrieving skin capacitive contact images and facial images with different orientations. Gabor wavelet transform can also work well on facial images with different expressions and skin cancer/disease images.

CONCLUSION

We have developed an effective skin image retrieval method based on Gabor wavelet transform, that it is useful for retrieving different types of images, namely digital colour face images, digital colour skin cancer and skin disease images, and particularly greyscale skin capacitive contact images. Gabor wavelet transform can also be potentially useful for face recognition (with different orientation and expressions) and skin cancer/disease diagnosis.

Association between the pre-miR-196a2 rs11614913 polymorphism and gastric cancer susceptibility in a Chinese population

We did a case-control study to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of the association of the pre-miR-196a2 rs11614913 polymorphism with gastric cancer. Between January 2013 and December 2014, 182 patients newly diagnosed with primary gastric cancer and 182 control subjects were recruited at Zhengzhou People's Hospital. For SNP genotyping, we used the Assay Designer 3.1 to design the primers of polymerase chain reaction. Using the chi-square test, we found that patients with gastric cancer were more likely to be alcohol drinkers (χ(2) = 4.4, P = 0.04), to have a family history of cancer in the first relatives (χ(2) = 5.29, P = 0.02), and to be infected with Helicobacter pylori (χ(2) = 23.39, P < 0.001). A significant difference in the genotype distributions of rs11614913 was observed in our study (χ(2) = 6.66, P = 0.04). By logistic regression analysis, we found that the CC genotype of rs11614913 was associated with an increased risk of gastric cancer in a codominant model (OR = 2.68, 95%CI = 1.17-6.44). By stratification analysis, we found that the CC genotype was associated with a strongly increased risk of gastric cancer in drinkers when compared with the TT+TC genotype (OR = 5.63, 95%CI = 1.54-30.76). In conclusion, the results of our study suggest an association between the rs11614913 gene polymorphism and an elevated risk of gastric cancer, especially in drinkers.

Association between ERCC5 gene polymorphisms and gastric cancer risk in a Chinese population

We conducted a hospital-based case-control study to investigate the association between 3 common SNPs in the ERCC5 gene (rs1047768, rs751402, and rs17655) and the risk of developing gastric cancer. Between January 2013 and December 2014, samples were collected from 216 gastric cancer patients and 216 control subjects. ERCC5 rs1047768, rs751402, and rs17655 polymorphisms were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction combined with restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. By conditional logistic regression analysis, the GG genotype of rs17655 was found to be associated with an elevated risk of gastric cancer in a codominant model, and the adjusted OR (95%CI) was 1.96 (1.10-3.50). Moreover, in a dominant model, the CG + GG genotype of rs17655 was correlated with an increased risk of gastric cancer compared to the CC genotype (OR = 1.48; 95%CI = 1.00-2.22). rs1047768 and rs751402 were not significantly correlated with an increased or decreased gastric cancer risk.

Predictor of massive bleeding following stent placement for malignant oesophageal stricture/fistulae: a multicentre study

AIM

To evaluate retrospectively the incidence and predictors of massive bleeding after stent placement for malignant oesophageal stricture/fistulae.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study comprised 519 patients with malignant oesophageal stricture/fistulae that were successfully treated with stent placement at three hospitals. The patients were divided into two groups based on the occurrence of massive bleeding. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to evaluate predictive factors of massive bleeding.

RESULTS

Massive bleeding occurred in 54 of 519 patients 1-37 days following stent placement. All of the patients who developed massive bleeding died within 24 hours of the event. Univariate analysis showed massive bleeding was associated with the presence of a concomitant tracheal stent (p<0.001), the existence of concomitant oesophageal fistulae (p<0.001), and prior radiotherapy (p<0.001). Multivariate analysis exhibited that concomitant tracheal stent insertion (odds ratio [OR], 23.134; 95% confidence interval [CI], 9.523-56.199; p<0.001), the presence of oesophageal fistulae (OR, 3.724; 95% CI, 1.677-8.269; p=0.001), and prior radiotherapy (OR, 13.310; 95% CI, 5.464-32.421; p<0.001) were predictors of massive bleeding following stenting.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of oesophageal fistulae, prior radiotherapy, and concomitant tracheal stent are important factors contributing to bleeding after stenting.

Gray matter correlates of migraine and gender effect: A meta-analysis of voxel-based morphometry studies

BACKGROUND

An increasing number of neuroimaging studies have revealed gray matter (GM) anomalies of several brain regions by voxel-based morphometry (VBM) studies in migraineurs. However, not all the studies reported entirely consistent findings. Our aim is to investigate concurrence across VBM studies to help clarify the structural anomalies underpinning this condition.

METHODS

A systematic search of VBM studies of patients with migraine and healthy controls (HC) published in PubMed and Embase databases from January 2000 to March 2014 was conducted. A quantitative meta-analysis of whole-brain VBM studies in patients with migraine compared with HC was performed by means of anisotropic effect size version of signed differential mapping (AES-SDM) software package.

RESULTS

Nine studies comprising 222 patients with migraine and 230 HC subjects were included in the present study. Compared to HC subjects, the patients group showed consistent decreased GM in the posterior insular-opercular regions, the prefrontal cortex, and the anterior cingulate cortex. Results remained largely unchanged in the following jackknife sensitivity analyses. Meta-regression analysis showed that a higher percentage of females in the patient sample was associated with decreased GM in the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first quantitative whole-brain VBM meta-analysis in migraine showing strong evidence of brain GM anomalies within the pain-processing neural network. Further longitudinal investigations are needed to determine whether these structural anomalies are reversible with effective treatment on migraine.

A glimpse of matrix metalloproteinases in diabetic nephropathy

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are proteolytic enzymes belonging to the family of zinc-dependent endopeptidases that are capable of degrading almost all the proteinaceous components of the extracellular matrix (ECM). It is known that MMPs play a role in a number of renal diseases, such as, various forms of glomerulonephritis and tubular diseases, including some of the inherited kidney diseases. In this regard, ECM accumulation is considered to be a hallmark morphologic finding of diabetic nephropathy, which not only is related to the excessive synthesis of matrix proteins, but also to their decreased degradation by the MMPs. In recent years, increasing evidence suggest that there is a good correlation between the activity or expression of MMPs and progression of renal disease in patients with diabetic nephropathy and in various experimental animal models. In such a diabetic milieu, the expression of MMPs is modulated by high glucose, advanced glycation end products (AGEs), TGF-β, reactive oxygen species (ROS), transcription factors and some of the microRNAs. In this review, we focused on the structure and functions of MMPs, and their role in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy.

[Effects and clinical significance of virus load on red blood cell parameters in different stage of hepatitis B]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of the viral load on the red blood cell parameters in chronic hepatitis B patients and its clinical significance.

METHODS

In the study, 373 chronic hepatitis B patients were recruited, including 123 alanine transaminase (ALT) normal patients (ALT<40 U/L),128 ALT greater than or equal to the upper limit of normal, and less than 2 times higher than the upper limit of normal patients(40 U/L ≤ALT<80 U/L), and 122 ALT greater than or equal to 2 times higher than the upper limit of normal patients (ALT≥80 U/L). The blood routine parameters were measured by automatic blood cell counter. The liver function parameters were measured by automatic biochemical analyzer, the hepatitis B virus loads were measured by quantitative PCR analyzer and the results were analyzed by covariance analysis.

RESULTS

In the ALT normal chronic hepatitis B patients group, the viral load had minor effects on the red blood cell parameters.But in the ALT abnormal chronic hepatitis B patients group, the viral load had a significant effect on the red blood cell parameters, and the effect was most manifest in the ALT≥ double upper limit of normal group. The specific performance was that with the viral load increasing, the red blood cell [low copies group (4.10±0.67)×10(12)/L,medium copies group (3.92±0.69)×10(12)/L,high copies group (3.54±0.90) ×10(12)/L], the hemoglobin[low copies group (129.66±21.12 ) g/L, medium copies group (126.23±23.38) g/L, high copies group (112.98±27.77) g/L], the hematocrit (low copies group 37.66±5.68, medium copies group 37.03±6.03, high copies group 33.34±8.15) decreased(P=0.006,0.007,0.010),the mean corpuscular volume [low copies group (92.17±6.53) fL, medium copies group (94.85±7.95) fL, high copies group (101.63±11.33) fL], the mean corpuscular hemoglobin [low copies group (31.70±2.22) pg, medium copies group (33.11±3.62) pg, high copies group (34.65±3.13) pg], the mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration [low copies group (344.28±17.17) g/L, medium copies group (351.33±16.90) g/L, high copies group (358.12±15.67) g/L], and the red blood cell distribution width-standard deviation [low copies group (52.49±9.04) fL, medium copies group (56.96±7.19) fL, high copies group (61.23 ±7.23) fL] increased(P=0.000,0.000,0.002,0.000).

CONCLUSION

Observing the effect of the viral load on the red blood cell parameters in chronic hepatitis B patients can reflect the effect of hepatitis B virus on the immune response and liver function in the different pathological stages, providing theoretical support for the clinical antiviral treatment.

Myelitis in systemic lupus erythematosus frequently manifests as longitudinal and sometimes occurs at low disease activity

Background

Transverse myelitis (TM) is a relatively infrequent but severe complication in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Owing to its rarity and unfavorable outcome, we investigated its general features on MRI and incidence in the context of lupus activity, to facilitate early recognition and treatment.

Methods

We report a case of a young man with clinically inactive lupus nephritis but who presented with a sudden attack of myelitis. We performed systematic literature search in Medline to study the clinical features of SLE-related TM.

Results

From 1960 to April 2013, a total of 72 articles containing 194 cases of lupus myelitis were found. Among acquired articles, 93 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The majority of the cases (88.8%) were female. Longitudinal myelitis was the predominant imaging finding on MRI (71.4%, 45/63). Nearly two-thirds (61/94) of lupus myelitis occurred in association with active lupus, and one-third (33/94) occurred in low disease activity.

Conclusions

Upon literature review, we found myelitis in SLE more frequently manifested as longitudinal on MRI. Although lupus myelitis often presented at an active phase of SLE, one-third of events happened in the presence of low disease activity. Early initiation of effective immunosuppressive therapy facilitated recovery.