[Determination of cobalt and tungsten in human urine by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry]

Objective: To establish a inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry method for the determination of trace cobalt and tungsten in human urine. Methods: The authors used 1% nitric acid solution as diluent in October-December 2021, the sample dilution factor and internal standard element were optimized by single factor rotation experiment, and the difference between the working curve and the standard curve was compared. Results: The method uses working curve to determine cobalt and tungsten in urine, the linear range of this method was 0.0~10.0 μg/L, the correlation coefficient was 0.999 9, the detection limits respectively were 0.005 μg/L (cobalt) and 0.09 μg/L (tungsten), the recoveries of samples respectively were 87.0%~100.2% (cobalt) and 89.4%~104.8% (tungsten), the relative standard deviations respectively were 0.4%~4.4% (cobalt) and 0.6%~3.8% (tungsten) . Conclusion: A simple and rapid method for determination of cobalt and tungsten in urine has been established. This method has the advantages of simple operation, high sensitivity, low detection limit and good stability. It is suitable for determination of cobalt and tungsten in urine of all kinds of people.

[Role of Dipeptidyl peptidase inhibitors in lung ischemia-reperfusion injury]

Lung ischemia-reperfusion injury (LIRI)is a common complication after lung transplantation and cardiopulmonary bypass. It is an important factor affecting the success rate of transplantation. Its specific pathogenesis has not yet been fully elucidated. It is very significant to find the targets and drugs for the prevention and treatment of LIRI in order to improving the utilization rate of "marginal donor lung" and the long-term survival rate of lung transplant patients. Dipeptidyl peptidase 4(DPP4) inhibitors are a class of oral hypoglycemic agents. Previous studies have shown that DPP4 inhibitors have a variety of pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, immunomodulatory and other extrapancreatic functions. Recent studies have shown that DPP4 inhibitors may alleviate LIRI through various mechanisms, including inhibiting inflammatory responses, reducing oxidative stress, regulating blood glucose levels, and activating autophagy. This article reviewed the clinical and preclinical applications and mechanisms of DPP4 inhibitors in LIRI.

Retraction Note: Salinomycin enhances radiotherapy sensitivity and reduces expressions of BIRC5 and NEIL2 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma

The article "Salinomycin enhances radiotherapy sensitivity and reduces expressions of BIRC5 and NEIL2 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma, by Y. Chang, Q. Geng, Q. Bao, P. Hu, published in Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2020; 24 (11): 6409-6416-DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202006_21539-PMID: 32572938" has been retracted by the authors. After publication, the article was questioned on PubPeer. Concerns were raised about Figure 3 and the reliability of the published results. The same authors stated that the study was not conducted according to the required standard procedures. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause https://www.europeanreview.org/article/21539.

O-191 Endometriosis is associated with a lowered cumulative live birth rate by alters the macrophage polarization and the cytokine concentrations in follicular fluid

Study question

The impact of endometriosis on the outcomes of ART is still ambiguous and the mechanism by which endometriosis impacts fertility has not been fully elucidated

Summary answer

Endometriosis was associated with low CLBR in IVF, which might be due to the change of follicular microenvironment and compromising the quality of embryos.

What is known already

Despite the great advantages of IVF treatment in endometriosis-linked infertility, the impact of endometriosis on outcomes of infertility management with ART is controversial and few studies focused on the association between endometriosis and CLBR. Numerous mechanisms have been proposed in an effort to delineate the multifaceted pathophysiology that induces impairment of reproductive dynamics in patients with endometriosis. Reactive oxygen species, dysregulation of the immune system and cellular architectural disruption constitute the crucial mechanisms that detrimentally affect oocyte and embryo developmental potential. 

Study design, size, duration

This study retrospectively included 433 patients with endometriosis and 1299 patients with tuber factor infertility to evaluate the impact of endometriosis on IVF pregnancy outcome between January 2016 and December 2018.The basic study prospectively recruited 30 patients with ovarian endometriosis and 35 controls with tubal factor infertility to analyze polarization stage of macrophages in their follicular fluid, and another 20 females with ovarian endometriosis and 30 controls to detect cytokines in their FF. 

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Data on all women undergoing fresh or frozen IVF treatment cycles were analysed to compare the CLBR between endometriosis and tuber factor infertility patients. A cytometry panel of 4 antibodies (CD45, CD3, CD80, CD163) was designed to enumerate the numbers of MI and MII macrophages from the cell sediment from FF samples. Quantibody® array was utilized to determine the concentration of 10 cytokines in FF, including IFN-γ, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-10,IL-13,IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1 and TNF-α. 

Main results and the role of chance

The results showed that patients with endometriosis were associated with noticeably fewer retrievable oocytes, a lower oocyte maturity rate, decreased numbers of available and high-quality embryos (all p < 0.001) in comparison with the control group. The clinical pregnancy and live birth rate of the endometriosis group were lower in the frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles (p = 0.028 and p = 0.008, respectively), which leading to a declined cumulative live birth rate (CLBR) (p = 0.001). Logistic regression analysis indicated a close association between endometriosis and low CLBR (p = 0.002). Furthermore, the numbers of type I and type II macrophages in follicular fluid (FF) of patients with ovarian endometriosis were significantly increased compared with the control group (p < 0.001). The expressions of IL-1α, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-13, and IL-10 in FF were higher in endometrioma group(p < 0.05). The increased expression of cytokines was negatively correlated with embryo outcomes, including the numbers of total oocytes retrieved, mature oocytes, and fertilized oocytes, and the numbers of high-quality blastocysts and embryos. Additionally, IL-6 and IL-8 were positively correlated with AMH, rate of available blastocysts, number of blastocysts formed and available blastocysts, but were negatively associated with rate of MII oocytes. 

Limitations, reasons for caution

The present study being of a retrospective and monocentric study, may not come to a very convincing conclusion, and some unknown biases might still exist due to possible underestimation of some confounders.

Wider implications of the findings

Collectively, our results indicate that endometriosis does adversely affect pregnancy outcomes of ART, as women with endometriosis produce a lower quantity of oocytes and embryos. Moreover, endometriosis might play a role in oocyte or embryo outcomes via regulating the production of cytokines or the number of immune cells in FF. 

Trial registration number

no

P-620 Hormone replacement therapy with GnRH agonist pretreatment improves pregnancy outcomes in patients with previous intrauterine adhesions

Study question

Is there an optimal endometrial preparation protocol of frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) for patients with history of intrauterine adhesions (IUAs)?

Summary answer

Hormone replacement therapy with GnRH agonist pretreatment (HRT+GnRHa) is superior to conventional HRT protocol to improve pregnancy outcomes in patients with IUAs.

What is known already

FET follow hysteroscopic adhesiolysis or therapeutic treatment is being widely adopted in patients with IUAs. Proper endometrial preparation plays a key role to maximize IVF success rate and improve pregnancy results. However, it remains unclear whether there is an optimal endometrial preparation protocol for patients with history of IUAs.

Study design, size, duration

This was a retrospective cohort study of 1002 FET cycles with history IUAs in our fertility center between January 2015 to December 2020. The study was approved by the hospital's Ethics Committee.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Eight hundred and forty-two conventional HRT cycles and 160 HRT+GnRHa cycles met the inclusion criteria were enrolled. Pregnancy outcomes were compared between the two groups. Logistic regression analysis was performed to adjust for important confounders. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Main results and the role of chance

The HRT+GnRHa group was associated with higher cycle rank (1.79 vs 2.17, P =0.026) and longer infertility duration (3.04 vs 3.69, P =0.000) compared with conventional HRT group. While the latter had a higher proportion of blastocyst embryo transferred (P =0.024). There were no statistically significant differences regarding the parental age at oocyte retrieval, body mass index (BMI), number of total embryos transferred and top embryo transferred, proportion of nulliparity, indication of IVF treatment and fertilization method, and endometrial thickness. Logistic regression indicated that after controlling for potential confounders, the HRT+GnRHa group achieved higher incidence of clinical pregnancy (aOR 1.474, 95% CI: 1.002-2.170, P =0.049), ongoing pregnancy (aOR 1.823, 95% CI: 1.207-2.753, P =0.004), and live birth (aOR 1.975, 95% CI: 1.306-2.988, P =0.000) than the conventional HRT group. The miscarriage rate was comparable between the two groups (aOR 0.613, 95% CI: 0.293-1.283, P =0.194). Our results suggested that HRT+GnRHa is over conventional HRT protocol to improve pregnancy outcomes of patients with previous IUAs.

Limitations, reasons for caution

The primary limitation of this study was its retrospective nature, and it was difficult to distinguish some confounding factors. Besides, there was no grading of IUA severity as most adhesion separation surgeries were not performed in our hospital, and the detailed medical history was not available.

Wider implications of the findings

Our study offers evidence for the superiority of HRT with GnRH-a pretreatment to conventional HRT protocol in improving the pregnancy prognosis of patients with previous IUAs. Our finding deserves further confirmation in clinical practice.

Trial registration number

2018YFC1003900/2018YFC1003904, SZSM201502035

Effect of berberine and bicyclol on Chinese patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a retrospective study

OBJECTIVES

To compare the effect of berberine and bicyclol on patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

METHODS

Chinese non-alcoholic and non-viral hepatitis patients with a hepatic lipid content > 13% and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease activity score (NAS) ≥ 2 were treated with 500 mg berberine thrice daily, together with dietary modification (low-fat diet) and Tai Chi exercise for 4 months (BT cohort; n = 112), or 25 mg bicyclol thrice daily plus dietary modification and Tai Chi exercise for 4 months (CT cohort, n = 145), or dietary modification and Tai Chi exercise for 4 months (DT cohort, n = 128).

RESULTS

Patients in the BT and the CT cohorts had improved anthropometric measurements (weight, height, body mass index, and waist-to-hip ratio), biochemical parameters (blood sugar, lipid profile, and liver functions tests), liver/spleen computed tomography findings, and liver biopsy results after 4 months of intervention (p < 0.05 for all). Bicyclol decreased the NAS in the CT cohort to a significantly greater degree than berberine in the BT cohort (p < 0.0001, q = 3.879). Patients in the DT cohort had reduced body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio (p < 0.05 for both). During the 4-month intervention, patients in the BT cohort had abdominal distension, mild diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and dyspepsia; patients in the CT cohort had dizziness and abdominal distension.

CONCLUSIONS

Berberine or bicyclol plus dietary modification and Tai Chi exercise could control NAFLD without serious adverse effects. Dietary modification and Tai Chi exercise alone for 4 months are insufficient for the management of NAFLD. It is possible to reduce body weight by administering berberine or bicyclol.

The Inverted U-Shaped Association of Caffeine Intake with Serum Uric Acid in U.S. Adults

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Caffeine is a worldwide popularly consumed constituent in foods that can exert physiological effects. However, previous researches about the relationship between caffeine intake and serum uric acid (SUA) were limited and controversial. Therefore, we sought to investigate that relationship in U.S. adults.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, the total sample of 7888 selected participants (3838 males and 4050 females) were identified from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Surveys (NHANES) 2015-2018. All subjects were tested for serum uric acid levels (μmmol/L), and their daily caffeine intakes (mg/d) were obtained by an average of two 24-hour dietary recalls. Multivariate linear regression models were used to evaluate the association between two variables in total subjects and subgroup analyses. Generalized additive models with smooth curve fittings were also performed.

RESULTS

Multivariate regression analyses showed caffeine intake was negatively correlated with SUA after adjustment of other confounders. The subgroup analyses stratified by gender showed the negative correlation of caffeine intake with SUA was statistically significant in males but not in females. Furthermore, we observed a nonlinear inverse association of caffeine intake with SUA (P nonlinear <0.001) in the generalized additive model, followed by an inverted U-shaped curve (inflection point: 60.5mg/d) for all participants. This inverted U-shaped relationship between them could also be found in both genders, individuals aged below 60 years old, overweight (BMI of 25 to 30), and Non-Hispanic White individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicated that caffeine intake exhibited an inverse correlation with SUA, especially in males. In addition, this inverse relationship was nonlinear, which followed an inverted U-shaped curve.

Plant-soil interactions and C:N:P stoichiometric homeostasis of plant organs in riparian plantation

Carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) stoichiometric ratios give valuable insight into ecosystem function. The purpose of the present study is to probe into the C, N, and P stoichiometric characteristics in various organs and their relationships with soil factors of the dominant deciduous conifer plant species (Taxodium ascendens and Taxodium distichum) during afforestation in the riparian zone of Three Gorges Reservoir. The results showed only a small change in the concentration of C in different plant organs and soils. T. ascendens contained mean N and P concentrations of 7.63 and 1.54 g/kg in fine roots, 5.10 and 0.56 g/kg in stems, and 15.48 and 2.30 g/kg in leaves, respectively. Whereas T. distichum had a mean N and P concentration of 7.08 and 1.37 g/kg in fine roots, 4.84 and 0.59 g/kg in stems, and 16.89 and 2.23 g/kg in leaves. The N:P ratios in all organs were below 14, indicating that N may have inhibited tree growth. The fine roots P and N:P of T. distichum were weak plasticity and weak homeostasis, and those of T. ascendens were plasticity and weak plasticity. Their stems and leaves adhere to strict homeostasis. N concentrations were significantly positively related to P concentrations in every tissue (except the stems of T. ascendens), and C concentrations were significantly positively associated with P concentrations in the stems and leaves of T. ascendens and T. distichum (p < 0.05). Likewise, soil P and fine root P were positively associated (p < 0.01). This study contributes to the understanding of deciduous conifer plant stoichiometry. It demonstrates N, P, and N:P stoichiometric homeostasis in T. ascendens and T. distichum, which can withstand flooding and are suitable for vegetation restoration in the hydro-fluctuation zone.

Nuclear export protein CSE1L interacts with P65 and promotes NSCLC growth via NF-κB/MAPK pathway

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is characterized with high morbidity and mortality, mainly due to frequent recurrence and metastasis. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of NSCLC tumorigenesis are largely unclear. Through data mining in the ONCOMINE and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases, the expression of CSE1L (chromosome segregation like 1 protein/CAS), an exportin, was identified to be significantly upregulated in NSCLC and positively associated with poor prognosis of patients. By use of in vitro and in vivo gain- and loss-of-function experiments, we found that CSE1L can promote NSCLC cell proliferation while inhibiting cell apoptosis. Through immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry experiments, we demonstrated that CSE1L interacted with RELA (named as P65) and affected its location in the nucleus. Moreover, we found that one of the mechanisms by which CSE1L promotes proliferation and inhibits apoptosis is through activating the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. In summary, our findings indicated an oncogenic role of CSE1L in NSCLC tumorigenesis.

Salinomycin enhances radiotherapy sensitivity and reduces expressions of BIRC5 and NEIL2 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of salinomycin (Sal) on expressions of baculoviral IAP repeat-containing 5 (BIRC5) and Nei endonuclease VIII-like 2 (NEIL2) and radiotherapy sensitivity of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Human NPC CNE-2 cell lines were used as research objects in this study. Subsequently, the cells received intervention with Sal at different concentrations, radioactive rays at different doses and Sal combined with radioactive rays. The growth inhibition rate of CNE-2 cells was detected via methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay. The dose-effect relations of Sal, radioactive rays and combination therapy with the inhibitory effect on CNE-2 cells were obtained. CNE-2 cells receiving intervention with Sal at an appropriate concentration or radioactive rays at an appropriate dose alone and Sal combined with radioactive rays were used as intervention groups (Sal group, Radiation group and Combination group). However, those added with an equal amount of DMSO were set as Control group. Next, the cycle, apoptosis and apoptotic morphology of CNE-2 cells were observed via flow cytometry and Hoechst assay, respectively. Moreover, the expressions of apoptosis-related proteins Caspase-3, B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and Bcl-2 associated X protein (Bax), as well as BIRC5 and NEIL2 proteins in CNE-2 cells were determined using Western blotting.

RESULTS

Under the intervention with Sal or radioactive rays alone, the growth inhibition rate of CNE-2 cells rose in a concentration/dose-dependent manner. With the increase in Sal concentration in combination therapy, the growth inhibition rate of CNE-2 cells significantly increased (p<0.05). Compared with Control group, Sal group, Radiation group, and Combination group exhibited remarkably lower colony formation rate, higher proportion of CNE-2 cells in the G2/M phase, enhanced apoptosis of CNE-2 cells with nuclear fragmentation, increased expressions of pro-apoptotic proteins Caspase-3 and Bax, decreased expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, and lower protein expressions of BIRC5 and NEIL2 in cells (p<0.05). Compared with Radiation group, the Combination group had significantly decreased colony formation rate, increased proportion of CNE-2 cells in the G2/M phase, enhanced apoptosis of CNE-2 cells with more nuclear fragmentation and other apoptosis characteristics, increased expressions of pro-apoptotic proteins Caspase-3 and Bax, decreased expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, and decreased protein expressions of BIRC5 and NEIL2 in cells (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Sal enhances the radiotherapy sensitivity of NPC and reduces the protein expressions of BIRC5 and NEIL2 in cells.

[The prenatal genetic diagnosis of a family with complete androgen insensitivity syndrome]

Objective: To identify the Androgen Receptor (AR) gene mutation of one family with complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS) and to establish the methods of prenatal genetic diagnosis for CAIS. Methods: The AR gene exons of the family were amplified by PCR and sequenced directly. Linkage analysis was performed by using the CAG repeats in the exon1 of AR gene to assure accuracy of the prenatal diagnosis. Results: We found a frameshift mutation c. 2546del A (p. Asn849Ile fsX34) in the exon7 of AR gene in the proband.The mutation had not been reported before.The mother of the proband went through two times prenatal genetic diagnosis for her next pregnancies, both fetuses were male and did not get the mutation.The results of the linkage analysis were consistent with the sequencing results. Conclusion: A novel AR mutations in a CAIS family have been confirmed. The method of prenatal genetic diagnosis was established, and worked effectively in the CAIS family.

Long non-coding RNA HOTTIP promotes tumor growth and inhibits cell apoptosis in lung cancer

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Early diagnosis is the best defense against this threat and is therefore of vital importance. In this study, we investigated the role of long non-coding RNA HOTTIP in the tumor growth of lung cancer. Initially, we found that expression of HOTTIP was significantly elevated in 20 cases of lung cancer. HOTTIP was also differentially expressed in a consecutive of lung cancer cell lines. Furthermore, specific shRNA against HOTTIP was employed to deplete expression of HOTTIP in A549 cells and NCI-H446 cells. After successfully depletion of HOTTIP, cell proliferation and colony formation were significantly inhibited in vitro. Tumor growth in vivo was also suppressed after depletion of HOTTIP in a mouse model of lung cancer. Moreover, depletion of HOTTIP caused cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase and induced significant cell apoptosis. Cell cycle regulators Cdc25C, Cyclin B1 and Cyclin D1 were decreased upon depletion of HOTTIP. Pro-apoptotic factor Bad was up-regulated, whereas anti-apoptotic factors Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL were down-regulated after HOTTIP ablation. These data suggest that lncRNA HOTTIP contributes to tumor growth in vivo and in vitro and inhibits cell apoptosis in lung cancer.

[microRNA-126 delivered by microparticles mediates intercellular signal transmission]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in mediating intercellular signaling.

METHODS

Microparticles (MP) from HUVEC and 293T were isolated by sequential centrifugation. THP-1 was co-cultured with microparticles. And then the migration of THP-1 was measured by transwell. real-time PCR and Western blotting were used to study the related mechanisms.

RESULTS

Compared with the microparticles from 293T, MP from HUVEC could promote the migration of monocytes (P<0.05) and upregulate the expression of CXCR4 mRNA and protein (P<0.05). MiRNA-126 deficient MP could downregulate the migration of monocytes (P<0.05) and the expression of CXCR4 mRNA and protein (P<0.05) compared with miRNA-126 abundant MP.

CONCLUSION

Microparticles from HUVEC could promote the migration of monocytes. As carriers, microparticles could mediate intercellular signaling.

Heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor and miR-1192 exert opposite effect on Runx2-induced osteogenic differentiation

Osteoblast differentiation is a pivotal event in bone formation. Runt-related transcription factor-2 (Runx2) is an essential factor required for osteoblast differentiation and bone formation. However, the underlying mechanism of Runx2-regulated osteogenic differentiation is still unclear. Here, we explored the corresponding mechanism using the C2C12/Runx2(Dox) subline, which expresses Runx2 in response to doxycycline (Dox). We found that Runx2-induced osteogenic differentiation of C2C12 cells results in a sustained decrease in the expression of heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HB-EGF), a member of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family. Forced expression of HB-EGF or treatment with HB-EGF is capable of reducing the expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), a defined marker of early osteoblast differentiation. HB-EGF-mediated inhibition of ALP depends upon activation of the EGFR and the downstream extracellular signal-regulated kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinase mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways as well as phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt pathway. Runx2 specifically binds to the Hbegf promoter, suggesting that Hbegf transcription is directly inhibited by Runx2. Runx2 can upregulate miR-1192, which enhances Runx2-induced osteogenic differentiation. Moreover, miR-1192 directly targets Hbegf through translational inhibition, suggesting enhancement of Runx2-induced osteogenic differentiation by miR-1192 through the downregulation of HB-EGF. Taken together, our results suggest that Runx2 induces osteogenic differentiation of C2C12 cells by inactivating HB-EGF-EGFR signaling through the downregulation of HB-EGF via both transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms.

Effects of genistein and daidzein on hippocampus neuronal cell proliferation and BDNF expression in H19-7 neural cell line

OBJECTIVES

Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) reduces the risk of Alzheimer's disease and symptoms in postmenopausal and elderly women. However, ERT is associated with increased risk of uterine and breast cancer. Dietary phytoestrogens have been suggested as a potential alternative to ERT, while little information is available regarding the effects and the underlying mechanisms of such treatment on central neuron function. The present study aimed to determine the effects of phytoestrogens including genistein and daidzein on the proliferation and survival of the hippocampus neural cells, which are of importance in learning and memory function.

MEASUREMENTS

H19-7/IGF-IR neural cell line was cultured in DMEM absented of serum for 72 h, and treated with various concentrations of genistein, daidzein or 17β-estradiol. Neuronal cell viability and proliferation were determined by MTT and BrdU assay, respectively Cell cycle analysis was performed using flow cytometry. The effects of genistein and daidzein on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mRNA and protein expression were determined by RT-PCR and ELISA, respectively. The effect of Trk receptors inhibitor on genistein and daidzein - induced hippocampus neuronal cell proliferation was also examined.

RESULTS

17β-estradiol, genistein and daidzein ranged from 20 nM to 2000 nM significantly promoted hippocampus neuronal cell viability and proliferation. Similar to the effect of 17β-estradiol, genistein and daidzein induced an increase in the percentage of cells in S phase. Genistein and daidzein significantly increased the expression of BDNF mRNA and protein levels. The effect of genistien and daidzein on hippocampus neuronal proliferation was blocked by K252a, a selective Trk receptors inhibitor.

CONCLUSION

This study concluded that genistein and daidzein improved hippocampus neuronal cell viability and proliferation in vitro. These neuroprotective effects might be mediated by BDNF-Trk pathway.

Inhibition of Toll-like receptor 4 with vasoactive intestinal peptide attenuates liver ischemia-reperfusion injury

BACKGROUND

Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) has attracted a great deal of attention in ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury in recent years. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) plays an important role in anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activity in several animal models. There are no data available regarding the effect of VIP on TLR4 expression in IR injury in vivo. In the present study, we study the effect of VIP on TLR4 expression in mouse macrophage cell line RAW 264.7 and a mouse partial IR model.

METHODS

The potential inhibitory effect of VIP on TLR4 mRNA and protein in a mouse macrophage cell line and in a mouse model of partial warm hepatic IR injury was assessed. We also assessed the expression tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6 in this model.

RESULTS

Expression of TLR4 mRNA levels was significantly decreased at 6, 12, and 24 hours after treat with VIP in mouse macrophage cell line RAW 264.7. Expression of TLR4 mRNA, TLR4 protein, alanine aminotransferase, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels were significantly increased in the IR group but significantly decreased in groups pretreated with VIP at a concentration of 5 and 10 nmol. Hematoxylin and eosin staining show apparent edema and necrosis were observed in the IR group, but in the VIP pretreatment group, edema and necrosis in IR modes were reduced.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that VIP might inhibit TLR4 in vitro and in vivo, and pretreatment with VIP might inhibited TLR4 activation and reduced warm IR injury.

Experimental study on Chinese ink as the dye for the sentinel lymph node biopsy

10785

Background: Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is a very important method in detecting lymph nodes metastasis. There are several methods developed to detect sentinel lymph node. In this study, we will research on sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) by using Chinese ink and study on its feasibility, clinical value and suitable concentration. Methods: Forty-two female rabbits were randomly divided into seven groups with 12 sides of mammaries (6 animals) in each group.The second mammary and the armpit of the same side were anatomized and injected 0.1 ml different dyes (1% isosulfan blue, 0.1%, 1%, 10%, 20%, 50%, 100% sterilized Chinese ink) at the base of the second mammary. We observed the dying time of the sentinel and the second lymph nodes and the fading time of the dying nodes. The pathological and histological examination of the sentinel lymph nodes were conducted in 5 minutes,1 hour and 2 weeks after the nodes were dyed by ink, respectively. The rabbits’ hearts, lungs, livers and kidneys were detected pathologic changes. Results: There was no obvious difference among different concentration ink on the dyeing time of the sentinel and second lymph nodes (P > 0.05),but distinctively different from 1% isosulfan blue (P < 0.05). There was no obvious difference between groups on the number of the dyed nodes (P > 0.05). But the nodes dyed by 0.1% ink were dyed too lightly to be found. The average fading time of the nodes dyed by 1% isosulfan bluewas 33.9 minutes, and the nodes dyed by ink were still dyed deeply 2 weeks after the experiment. The pathologic examination showed that the carbon aggregated in the lymph nodes sinus 5 minutes after the nodes were dyed, but was phagocytosed by Macrophage (MΦ) 1 hour after dyed. The groups (0.1%, 1%, 10% ink) showed good histology image, however, groups (20%, 50%, 100% ink) showed too much carbon aggregation to disturb the observation. There were no difference in blood routine and pathologic change between these two groups. Conclusions: Chinese ink of concentration 1% to 10% is a useful dye of SLNB according chromaticity, histological observation and security. This dye had latency clinical value and was a new type of the dye for SLNB.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Temperature Limit Values For Touching Cold Surfaces with the Fingertip

OBJECTIVES

At the request of the European Commission and in the framework of the European Machinery Directive, research was performed in five different laboratories to develop specifications for surface temperature limit values for the short-term accidental touching of the fingertip with cold surfaces.

METHODS

Data were collected in four laboratories with a total of 20 males and 20 females performing a grand total of 1655 exposures. Each touched polished blocks of aluminium, stainless steel, nylon-6 and wood using the distal phalanx of the index finger with a contact force of 1.0, 2.9 and 9.8 N, at surface temperatures from +2 to -40 degrees C for a maximum duration of 120 s. Conditions were selected in order to elicit varying rates of skin cooling upon contact. Contact temperature (TC) of the fingertip was measured over time using a T-type thermocouple.

RESULTS

A database obtained from the experiments was collated and analysed to characterize fingertip contact cooling across a range of materials and surface temperatures. The database was subsequently used to develop a predictive model to describe the contact duration required for skin contact temperature to reach the physiological criteria of onset of pain (15 degrees C), onset of numbness (7 degrees C) and onset of frostbite risk (0 degrees C).

CONCLUSIONS

The data reflect the strong link between the risk of skin damage and the thermal properties of the material touched. For aluminium and steel, skin temperatures of 0 degrees C occurs within 2-6 s at surface temperatures of -15 degrees C. For non-metallic surfaces, onset of numbness occurs within 15-65 s of contact at -35 degrees C and onset of cold pain occurs within 5 s of contact at -20 degrees C. The predictive model subsequently developed was a non-linear exponential expression also reflecting the effects of material thermal properties and initial temperature. This model provides information for the protection of workers against the risk of cold injury by establishing the temperature limits of cold touchable surfaces for a broad range of materials, and it is now proposed as guidance values in a new international standard.

Temperature limit values for gripping cold surfaces

OBJECTIVES

At the request of the European Commission and in the framework of the European Machinery Directive, research was conducted jointly in five different laboratories to develop specifications for surface temperature limit values for the gripping and handling of cold items.

METHODS

Four hundred and fourteen experiments were run where male and female subjects were invited to grip for up to 20 min cold bars of different contact coefficients, i.e. polished wood, nylon, stone, steel and aluminium. The air temperature and the bars' initial surface temperatures ranged between 0 and -30 degrees C for the various experiments. While gripping the bars, either only the hand or the whole body was exposed to cold.

RESULTS

The data were used to develop a prediction formula and a graph of the surface temperature limit values in order for the skin contact temperature not to reach <15 degrees C. This duration is shown to offer a significant degree of safety with respect to the minimal surface temperature spontaneously tolerated by the subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

Experiments and modelling must be pursued to extend these data to other conditions of exposure.

[Mature time demarcation of human immature myocardium]

OBJECTIVE

To study the mature time demarcation of human immature myocardium.

METHODS

The morpho-ultrastructure, calcium metabolism, energy metabolism and oxygen free radicals metabolism of myocardium of children with ventricular septal defect without pulmonary hypertension or any clinical symptoms were studied at different ages.

RESULTS

The immature myocardium possessed its own structure and functional characteristics. Before viripotent period, the age-related myocardial changes developed progressively to mature and almost approached to mature levels at 6-9 years old. The indices of immature myocardium developing to mature levels were inconsistent.

CONCLUSION

The structure and function of human immature myocardium approaches to mature levels at 6-9 years old.

Tactile sensitivity of gloved hands in the cold operation

In this study, tactile sensitivity of gloved hand in the cold operation has been investigated. The relations among physical properties of protective gloves and hand tactile sensitivity and cold protection were also analysed both objectively and subjectively. Subjects with various gloves participated in the experimental study during cold exposure at different ambient temperatures of -12 degrees C and -25 degrees C. Tactual performance was measured using an identification task with various sizes of objects over the percentage of misjudgment. Forearm, hand and finger skin temperatures were also recorded throughout. The experimental data were analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) model and the Tukey's multiple range test. The results obtained indicated that the tactual performance was affected both by gloves and by hands/fingers cooling. Effect of object size on the tactile discrimination was significant and the misjudgment increased when similar sizes of objects were identified, especially at -25 degrees C.

Application of a newly developed 3-D deformation measurement system to prosthetic dentistry

A new system for measuring three-dimensional deformation has been developed. The main components of the system are a fixed TV camera and vertically scanning projectors. The advantages of the system are: (1) since there is no mechanical contact between the object and the sensing unit, hardness and form of the object do not have to be considered; (2) the system does not need any precise geometry except for the reproducibility of the vertical scanning stage; (3) the time required for one measurements is extremely short; and (4) the system is not expensive. From the basic experiments for testing accuracy, this system has about +/- 30 microns range deviation against 1000 microns deformation of the object. The system has been applied to investigate the influence of various impression procedures for a removable partial denture on the displacement of the simulated soft mucosal tissue. It is revealed that deformation forms are expressed precisely. Our results suggest that this measurement system is quite useful for research in dentistry and that it could be widely applied.

[Influence of various impression procedures for removable partial denture on displacement of soft mucosal tissue]

In the impression-taking procedure for the distal extension removable partial denture, the pressure produced at the interface of the soft mucosal tissue and the impression material is the most important factor for the stability of the saddle under functional load. However, a review of the literature revealed little information about the displacement of the soft tissue caused by the impression pressure. In the present study, to investigate the influence of various impression procedures on the magnitude of the soft tissue displacement more precisely, a new three-dimensional deformation measurement system was devised. Compared to the previous studies, the greatest advantage of the system is that the hardened impression material can be surveyed directly without substituting a dental stone. It was found that, in the investigation using a partially edentulous simulated model, the amount of the subsidence in the soft tissue was increased as the thickness of the spacer of the impression tray was reduced or the seating speed of the tray was fast. Especially in the buccal area, a large amount of vertical displacement was present compared to the midridge and lingual area. Thus it was suggested that many factors are associated with the form of soft tissue under impression loading.